Category Archive for ‘Some Sort of Review’ at The Black Nail

Archive for the 'Some Sort of Review' Category

Latest Books Reviewed.

Published on August 16, 2010 in Book Review, Entertainment, Sharing is Caring and Some Sort of Review. 1 Comment

I rather enjoyed posting a review of the books I had recently finished, and those I was currently reading, last month. So much so that I am happy to do it again. A few of you thanked me for this as you had been looking for a summer read; I appreciate your response.

I’ll begin with the books that I have freshly finished. If you read last months review you’ll notice that there are a few that were not in the pile of current reads. This happens often. If I’m drawn to something more enticing the less enchanting ones get pushed to the shelf for the time being. Let’s commence, shall we?

Under the Dome – Stephen King

Everything was business as usual that day until I tripped and fell into the world of Stephen King. Having never read Mr. King before this was my first. Let’s rewind. I was visiting the Sci-Fi channel one night and happened to catch a new series, Haven. I saw that it was based upon a story by Stephen King titled The Colorado Kid. It was the pilot episode and I was intrigued by the style of the story and the supernatural elements; more so than the cheesy acting and mediocre CGI. I have to read this book, I thought. The next day I made my rounds to the local used booksellers and had no luck finding it (I did, however, pick up King’s The Dark Tower I: The Gunslinger, more on that in a bit) - so to the full price store I went. No luck there either. I was able to find a copy on Amazon.com that evening and before placing my order I was clicking around taking in all of the Stephen King selections; seeing which ones I had recognized from films and which ones looked compelling and not overly blood-soaked. His latest release Under the Dome caught my wandering eye. Both purchases arrived by mail on the same day. The Colorado Kid was a thin mystery book and was quite dwarfed by the other, an 1100 page behemoth. “Challenge!” I said, with a smile. I dove in headfirst; ignoring the warning to always test the water – feet first, first time.

Late doesn’t even do justice as to just how late to the Stephen King party I am. I blame it mostly on my restricted religious upbringing, which said – if it isn’t in the Christian bookstore you’re not reading it. When I was a child I thought like a child, I spoke like a child, I reasoned like a child; but when I became a man – I read Stephen King. Before the two online purchases arrived I read the introduction to The Gunslinger. I was quite taken by how personable and honest Mr. King spoke with his readers. I thought, This guy is completely normal, has a real heart for people and is passionate about what he does. He isn’t at all the monster Christians have made him out to be for all of these years.

Fast-forward with me back to where I was sitting in my brown leather chair in a well lit corner of the living room. Here is where I love to do my reading. The first few pages of Under the Dome turned with ease and before I could stop myself I was living among the residents of Chester’s Mill, Maine. King’s pacing is phenomenal. In an internet driven society the word genius is used far too flippantly – so remove all of that artery clogging usage and return to the good ol’ days of ink on paper - Stephen King is an out right genius. So good at his craft of keeping the car running page after page – reaching breakneck speeds when necessary, slowing in corners when needed but never stalling out. I finished Under the Dome in just 4 days. There is a theme to the story, a great one – but it is left for reader to search within his/her self to find it. And that’s exactly how I prefer it.

The Screwtape Letters – C.S. Lewis

This is a must for the doubter in all of us. As a man who puts his faith in God I am now at a place where I seem to be questioning most everything that has been shaped by man in the name of God. I question just how important am I, if at all, in the grand scheme of things. This writing places a bit of perspective on the subject.

In this book Lewis creates dialogue betwixt two demons – one higher up on the food chain, Screwtape, and the other – his nephew, Wormwood. The part of you and I is played by a man simply called “The Patient.” In this confabulation, shaped by written letters, the two demons discuss the securing of the Patient’s damnation to hell. Simply put, it’s the devil’s view of humankind – and his plan to steer one away from his enemy (God) and pull him/her toward “Our Father Below” (Satan) as Screwtape puts it.

Person of faith or not I recommend this for the interesting banter of what would be the devil on your shoulder. The depths these two take in attempt to secure one man’s damnation is intense. At the end of the day (end of the read) I still sometimes question if each and every soul is so valuable to Satan that he would mark each and send vehicles of evil in an effort to slay and keep them away from salvation, or if he even has the resources (Yes, Christians – I know all about his many resources to sway).

I know this topic opens up the barrel in the Christian community – but anymore I like to sit up on the hill, alone, and figure it out for myself.

The Rum Diary – Hunter S. Thompson

Hunter, you’re a crazy man. Yet, I still rather enjoy the bedlam of the world you built around yourself and the bizarre legacy you left. End-capped by the way you departed the earth.

Aside from a few articles and a brief visit into the book Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas this is my first full read of Hunter. Not to compare writing styles – however, this book did for me anew what The Catcher in the Rye did all those years ago. And that is – instilled, once again, a simple love for reading.

I took pure enjoyment in riding alongside Paul Kemp as he relocated from New York to Puerto Rico, taking his skill-set as a writer with him. The struggles, the chaos, and the debauchery flowed together giving the reader a birds-eye view and avoiding full immersion.

This is a quick read, and a great one.

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft – Stephen King

Being one who dabbles in writing and is on a mission to complete something of greater length than a short story – this was like striking gold in California, circa 1849. As stated above, I am somewhat fascinated by the writing style and pacing of one Stephen King. So who better to receive advice on writing from? I implore you to grab a copy of this and let it soak in your brain if you are someone who loves to write. A good amount of what he says I was already doing subconsciously – however, to read it from King himself solidified and gave me a boost of confidence to boldly go… in the direction I was already headed. And, of course, there were so many morsels of advice in this book that I had not thought of.

Aside from being a writer, another perfectly good reason to read this book is that it is a form of memoir. King takes the reader through his life giving glimpses and tales from birth to date – and most importantly sharing how he got to where he sits now (ready for a horrible pun?), on the throne – as the King of his domain.

King reiterates the words of those who have gone before (Twain, Hemingway) when he states the importance of killing adjectives and adverbs. He concludes with the adage, “Do as I say and not as I do” – as he clearly uses a decent amount of adverbs – making light of the matter and poking fun at himself.

Shakespeare: The World as Stage – Bill Bryson

Shakespeare, perhaps the most known unknown author of them all. This book gave me more history of the age of Shakespeare than actual history of Shakespeare. Which is somewhat frustrating – but the truth is, we don’t know that much about this man.

If you hold a great deal of curiosity about this famed author look no further than this book. There are hundreds of books on the subject – you could read till you are blue in the face – but this one is simple and short, containing all of the history that we know about the man, the legend.

As I have found in other Bryson books he has a humorous and light-hearted approach to his subject matter; be it historical or of the memoir genre. So you will not be bored or lulled to sleep (unless you are really tired, then I wouldn’t blame Bryson).

The photo on your left displays the books I am currently reading. I will list them below for you and, hopefully, I will have the time to write a review as I finish reading each one.

The Dark Tower I: The Gunslinger – Stephen King

The Colorado Kid – Stephen King

Lord of the Flies – William Golding

George MacDonald – C.S. Lewis

The Elegance of the Hedgehog – Muriel Barbery

The Collected Poems of W.B. Yeats – W.B. Yeats

The Magicians – Lev Grossman

A Short History of Nearly Everything – Bill Bryson

Burton on Burton – Tim Burton

*Here’s a tip from me to you, utilize the used bookstores in your area. They will do wonders for your wallet if you are an avid reader. Example: Stephen King’s The Gunslinger was only 3 bucks. Outstanding.

*If you live in Nashville try Rhino Booksellers, Bookman, and McKay’s. If all else fails, use Amazon.com.

Well Read.

Published on July 3, 2010 in Book Review, Sharing is Caring and Some Sort of Review. 1 Comment

In a perfect world I would have the time and wherewithal to write
a review of every book I’ve read.

This is not a perfect world.
I lack time.
I lack wherewithal.

What I can do is post from time to time a list of books I’ve recently read
and books I’m currently reading.

I have the ability to be into 4 or 5 books at a time. I liken it to how people
can follow 4 or 5 different TV shows per week. Putting aside the fact that
it takes longer to get through and is much more satisfying.

It irks me to no end when I hear comedians or lay-folk go on about how
funny they think it is that they haven’t cracked a book since high-school,
and even then how it was only the cliff notes the day before the paper was due.
Continuing on with comments like,
“If the book is any good they’ll make a movie, and I’ll just see that.”

I would like to bite my thumb at them and call them a bafoon.
But I remain silent because after all – the loudest in the room is the weakest.

Enough about that.
More about this.

Here are the last 5 books that I have read with a brief descripto.

The Devil in the White City – Erik Larson:

I received this as a gift from Cameron’s family this past Christmas.
Great read stocked with plenty of history. I recently viewed a
documentary detailing the same killer, H.H. Holmes.
The book interestingly pairs that story with the architect who
designed the World’s Fair in Chicago, 1893.
Genius on the part of both men; one used for good – the other bad.
It’s incredibly hard to understand how one person can be so evil.

Intriguing read.

The History of Love – Nicole Krauss:

Also a gift, from my friend Allie – for my birthday, this is a book
to remember and revisit. I had forgotten that it was on my bookshelf
until another friend of mine, Michelle, had asked if I had read it.
I recently read it in about 4 sittings. In the later sitting I tore through about
150 pages. For me, the pacing seemed a bit sporadic, at first, but once
I established the rhythm it was beautiful.

To find love and have it stick so deep for so long without anything
to fuel it and no fruit bearing from it shakes you to the core.

Incredible story, incredible.

The Year I Got Everything I Wanted – Cameron Conant:

Yet again, a gift. This one from the author himself.
I have been friends with Cameron for the last 2 years and had never
read his books (of which there are two). Upon his leaving for Africa
he gave me them to read. I finally picked this one up and read it in
one sitting on a Sunday afternoon. Knowing him made it that much
better of a read. Cam’s crafting of a story has grown to be a favourite
of mine and I can’t wait to see what he has to offer the world post
Peace Corps. Ignore the ridiculous review on Amazon by an obvious
juvenile drinking hater-ade.

This is the story of one mans journey through his post-divorce life
as he attempts to re-establish himself and once again discover purpose.

Tonight’s Departure.

Published on August 16, 2009 in Entertainment, Film Critic, Some Sort of Review and Thoughts. 2 Comments

Tonight I walked to the Belcourt, unassuming.

I purchased one ticket for ‘Departures’ at the outside window and connected with Jeff and Annie who were waiting inside. I was a few minutes late as I needed to grab a late night cup of coffee across the street. We entered the center screening room and took our creaky, yet inviting, seats.

I love to be surprised. More so by good news than bad.

Speaking along the lines of viewing a film – the unknown can be the most fulfilling experience. In this particular case I allowed myself to only view the name of the director and the poster art.

The rest I left up to chance.

The poster portrayed a man, seated, embracing a cello placed in a meadow with a vast display of mountains flanking him. That alone is what drew me to see this film. There is something so moving, so hypnotizing, about the sound of a lone cello placidly releasing each note.

I could soak it in for eternity.

The film began and my mind quickly adjusted to the ebb and flow of simultaneously reading the translation at the bottom and taking in the images that paralleled. As most Asian films the attention to detail in every aspect was absolutely stunning. The story unfolded with such a delicate touch that there are no other words for it.

I do not write tonight to give you a review of the movie from the perspective of a film critic, yet to simply express its impact upon me, and close.

Fully understanding that all of us are individually wired down to each single DNA, on each individual strand, when speaking upon death and loved ones – ALL are affected. Some, like myself, are stitched with microscopic pours full of sensitivity, and if that is you – beware.

[Measured by 'the Enneagram' this would be a type 4.]

It matters not the culture from where you derive, the level of income bestowed upon your household nor the shining-white-perfect-teethed smiling family portraits that you take pride in – no one comes from a “flawless upbringing”. Be it masked or not, we are all human.

To err is human.

This film portrays such err. If you so happen to be one of us who were raised on the opposite end of perfection, the story line fused with meticulously beautiful acting will absolutely rip your heart open. No matter how cold.

This moment patiently awaits until the final scenes unfolding last breath. At that moment the softening of my heart, that had been taking place throughout the past two hours, left me literally paralyzed.

Never too muscle-headed to ashamedly deny – I was moved to tears, several times throughout. More so then I have been in a long time. When you feel tinges of your reality in a culture so other worldly than your own, it’s quite moving.

I do hope that you will experience this film at some point and let it affect you, not entertain you. I think the later would be doing it such a grave disservice.

I have been so transported by this film, so deeply touched, that I know it’s time to write a few hard letters to those I love. Furthermore, back to the DNA wiring, I know that I will not be able to do so until this is done.

It’s never too late to express your true feelings… until it’s too late.

Alice in Wonderland.

Published on June 22, 2009 in Film Critic and Some Sort of Review. 6 Comments

Burton & Depp can do no wrong in my book. Everything they have made has been a masterpiece. Last night I stumbled upon a few articles and photos featuring the newest collaboration of the two – Disney’s Digital 3D ‘Alice in Wonderland’. From what I’ve read this is slated to release on March 5th 2010. That’s almost a year of waiting. But I will look forward to all of the teasers along the way, including these gems posted below. After waking up and seeing that “Tim Burtons Alice” is a trending topic on Twitter I almost didn’t post this in the “why bother” sense of it all. But my love of all things Depp & Burton took over. So for those of you who have not seen or read… enjoy.

Did I mention it will be in 3D!

[Click for full article about the film.]

[Yahoo's take on the film.]

:: Il y a longtemps que je t’aime ::

Published on June 13, 2009 in Entertainment, Film Critic and Some Sort of Review. 5 Comments

Or… as we’d say in America – “I’ve Loved You So Long.”

Last night a small handful of friends came over to enjoy a bottle of red, dark chocolate and a french film.

I seem to be getting further and further away from an all out action packed adventure as my film of choice. Although I will always love the epics and war movies – pieces like this one seem to resonate to a different place within.

“I’ve Loved You So Long” is a brilliant character study based on the lives of two sisters who have had no contact for the last 15 years and are brought together by a certain “release” that leaves everyone uncomfortable in their own skin. While this does seem to tail on for a while, it leaves you questioning what exactly everyone is so afraid to talk about.

When I post about films I try my best not to give anything away. Some of the best movie experiences are ones where you go in knowing nothing about that which you are about to experience.

The beauty of a film of this nature is it’s willingness to allow you to get to know the characters as time passes and more about them unfolds in front of you. This is why I have been so into foreign films as of late. In America we want it all now. As evident by half the garbage Hollywood force feeds this fast food nation.

Twenty movies about the same 2 dudes in a car racing gang?

Please.

If you were a fan of the film “Doubt” you will definitely enjoy this one as it maintains the same speed throughout. In no way do the scripts parallel but the quality and art of the film reflect.

The acting is beyond superb, one feels tied into the characters lives from the beginning. Kristin Scott Thomas and Elsa Zylberstein create such a realm of intimacy as they work through a scene that it is mind blowing.

From a “filmmakers” perspective the camerawork and shots are stunning. You can tell that so much went into portraying this story as a piece of art. If you pay attention there are scenes in which the whole piece moves as a stage play with no cuts or edits – just one fluid motion as the camera tracks throughout the house.

Yes, this is in French with English subtitles. I’m not quite sure why, other than laziness, this seems to turn so many Americans off to watching a movie. Some of the best movies I’ve ever seen are subtitled. Don’t miss out for fear of the unknown. Step outside of the “cheesy romantic comedies” and “shoot ‘em up kill ‘em” box that you live in and experience culture.

For me, the closing scene of the film – is perfect. The last word spoken – is perfect. The music chosen for the credits, after such a touching moment – is perfect.

It is an honest take at life and a situation that doesn’t live outside of reality.

In keeping with my “rating” of the films I post I ”I’ve Loved You So Long” receives 4 out 5.

[Thanks for reading!]

Reviews and Stories Never Told

Published on October 14, 2008 in Of the Musical Kind and Some Sort of Review. 4 Comments

Just one week after attempting to curb my addiction to the new Oasis album, ‘Dig Out Your Soul’, Keane places another ‘hit’ of what I crave right in front of me.

I accept.

Sticking it deep in my veins.

Let me retrace my steps. Last week in full anticipation I was finally able to legally consume the new Oasis. Upon playing the full album I felt a throwback to my year as a bumbling college freshman… when I first gave in and began full consumption of GOOD music. ‘(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?’ had just been released that October and a dirty brace-faced guitar playing kid across the hall was spinning it and spinning it loud. I peaked my head in and said, “What is that?!?” Like a kid at Disneyland looking in on Space Mountain. He let me sit a spell and take in the whole album. For the first time I felt like I had to have something to survive.

It was all downhill from there.

Later on my newly acquired dorm mate and I “performed” a cover of ‘Wonderwall’ to the masses at an event they called Harvestfest. And since then ‘Wonderwall’ has been covered more times than the moon has orbited the earth.

That was my first glimpse at making a cover unique yet not destroying it. I was amazed that people could actually cover songs and get away with it. And now people are famous solely for the cover they sang, what a trip.

Leave yesteryear and travel forward with me.

‘Dig Out Your Soul’ carries with it small glances back at what originally brought them to the front of the lunch line in 1995. Lyrically reaching backwards with lines like, “revolution in her head”. Their love/influence of The Beatles goes beyond evident with this album. If it were a crime they’d be locked away for certain. On ‘(Get Off Your) HIgh Horse Lady’ the “stomp – clap” doesn’t even sound re-recorded, yet ripped from the hard-drives at Abbey Road; mirroring that of ‘Give Peace a Chance’. ‘The Turning’ leaves us with ‘Dear Prudence’ leaking out the backside. And even the ghost of John Lennon speaks to us under the romantic serenade ‘I’m Outta Time’. Do I agree with using these tricks on songs? Absolutely. It relates and connects. It also shows your audience where you came from and what influences you. And lastly it pays homage to those who tread before you. However, this trick bag should have a warning label printed on the front, “Everything in moderation”.

Thus far ‘Falling Down’ is the most infectious track on the album, ask those around me, I can’t stop singing the hook, “It’s time to kiss the world goodbye…” It has nested itself in my head, and put pictures of us together on the walls.

I must say, with hesitation, a few times while listening through the album certain elements sonically brought me back to the dcTalk ‘Jesus Freak’ album. I can’t quite put my finger on it. Be it the production or pieces of the harmonies. Maybe Liam has the freaks on his iPod and subconsciously made a connection.

My daily-dose prescriptions for this album: ‘Falling Down’, ‘I’m Outta Time’, ‘To Be Where There’s Life’, ‘Ain’t Got Nothin’ and ‘Bag It Up’. The pre-order was delivered with a Chemical Brothers cut of ‘Falling Down’. It is marvelous. A perfect song for annoying drivers on either side of you at a red light. The louder it is the better it sounds.

As is true with most earthlings, I love it when I can put on an album and let it play from start to finish- living in complete satisfaction.

This is one of those albums.

Take a breath we aren’t done yet. There is no other way to transition from Oasis to Keane but to tell another story.

The year was 2004. My blood, music, had been ripped from my person the year prior. I had become so consumed with trying to provide happiness for another in my life that I had begun to bleed out and all but lose what was truly me. A friend of mine had slipped me the debut Keane album ‘Hopes & Fears’. Not many stateside had heard of this act. Keane had begun to receive major attention across the pond. But not here.

I first let the record spin in my car on the way to work a mundane ‘pay for the white-picket fence’ job. I remember feeling a small jolt of joy leap within. My heart beat again. And it was all because of music. Before I arrived ‘We Might As Well Be Strangers’ began. I recall weeping uncontrollably. No one had reached out to touch me in a very long time. I was at a place in my life where what I thought was going to be, was the complete opposite.

This song moved me.

It was a small glimpse that I could feel… something. It was the perfect soundtrack piece for that span of my life. It spoke loudly what I was living.

Since that moment Keane had become a part of my catalogue of music necessary for survival.

To date.

Early this morning (1am) I received my pre-order of ‘Perfect Symmetry’. I have slept little and listened much. To some it highly seems logical to skip sleep to listen to music.

I am not part of that ‘some’.

As always, my first listen through was spent stripping down my opinions of what I thought the album should sound like. Then I repented and partook again with fresh baby ears embracing the newness for what the artist intended, not what I intended.

Upon second listen I was buying what Keane was selling, even though I already ‘bought’ it.

Knowing that Tom Chaplin (Keane front man) had openly admitted his addiction to cocaine and alcohol, and had sought treatment, I was already thinking, “What will this sound like without that heavy of an influence on the creative process?” I have not stripped apart all of the lyrics yet. At a glance it seems that they steered from this subject matter and moved to a more global approach, as that of U2. (There are a few subtle phrases hinting at starting anew.) These are definitely the type of songs that could be heard in arenas across the world being bellowed by faithful fans.

Stylistically ‘Perfect Symmetry’ doesn’t stray all too far from the standard Keane sound, hints at Coldplay’s piano ballads and U2′s anthem rock still exist. As the first track plays you definitely feel the heavy influence of 80′s pop. By the end of the song all I could hear was that obnoxious voice from the Talking Heads saying, “This is not my beautiful wife!” A few times during listen I wondered if the mix engineer forgot to un-mute the piano track. You can never have enough piano fellas, your Keane remember? As the song ‘Playing Along’ comes to a close I swore I heard Jeff Buckley’s voice wailing behind the fuzz.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone who has seen, heard or read anything I’ve done that one of my favourite tunes on the album would be sappy and hopelessly romantic in nature. That track would be ‘Love is the End.’ I mean come one, there are strings and everything.

I purchased the digital Deluxe edition which generously provides the consumer with the demo versions of every song on the album and a 20 minute documentary on the making of the album. You can’t beat that with a digital stick.

I am far from digesting this album as it is so fresh. I may have to twitter my daily-dose picks from the album.

Do grab both of these ‘records’ you will not be disappointed. They come highly recommended from a confessed junkie.

It’s time for me to go.

I have to line up… my playlist and get back to work.

“Opinions Are Like ________.”

Published on October 8, 2008 in Entertainment, Some Sort of Review and cB Films. 7 Comments

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Last night after a very long day of work I decided to head down the street to Belmont University to see what was taking place outside of the ‘Debate.’ Driving past the front of Belmont I saw a plethora of people with signs chanting and screaming their lungs out. Ever so suddenly the sprinkling turned into heavy falling rain and seemed to swiftly decimate the crowds.

I parked on a side street near the Curb Event Center took out my camera and trudged thru the rain to see how close I could get. People came and went; some were inside the debate hall while others just came to see what all of the fuss was about. I was able to interview quite a few people to hear just what they had to say.

Unfortunately, those with the most boisterous opinions did not want to be heard on film. They spoke at will while the camera was turned off but did not want to be seen giving their weighted opinions.

In this piece you will see the interviews I shot in the order that they either approached me or were approached. I interviewed at random and tried to gather anyone who wanted their voice to be heard. I did not place one interviewee in front of the other or edit what anyone had to say. These are raw opinions voiced by those on tape and only edited slightly for the sake of cleaning up the shots.

[All footage was taken by me outside of Belmont University and the opinions expressed herein are those of the people on camera and are not mine. I did not pull out the Gorilla mask for fear of being sniped or gang-tackled by the secret service.]

Burn After Reading

Published on September 13, 2008 in Film Critic and Some Sort of Review. 2 Comments

As you know I watch A LOT of films. And for the most part anytime Beckinsale, Pitt or Depp are in a feature I’ll be watching it opening weekend. So naturally, I went last night to check out Burn After Reading. Staring Clooney, Malkovich, McDormand, Pitt and a slew of other known acts. I was very entertained throughout. It is a very dry comedy with a dark side. And contains plenty of out loud laughter that is, for the most part, based around the stupidity of the self-absorbed characters on the screen. The quirks and ticks woven into each character were pulled off very well by the star saturated cast.

The cool Brad Pitt plays an idiot who attempts to be slick when dealing with the former CIA desk jockey played by John Malkovich, who you learn early on has the capability to drop 60 f-bombs without blinking. George Clooney plays an over the top former Marshall who has an obvious addiction, and it isn’t jogging. As the very thin web of blackmail is woven you discover that every one is sleeping with everyone else (What’s new in Hollywood…) and what you thought might be something of importance spins into nothing. Which is a funny take on how idiotic people can be these days. The approach taken by the CIA in sweeping it all under the rug to close the film out was very humorous; as well as the Russians pointless involvement.

As a whole it was a bizarre script with no true depth and meaning. One would have to make something up to get anything other than a couple hours of entertainment out of this one. It is a Cohen Brothers film so most who aren’t familiar with their quirky stylings will likely walk away confused and feeling duped. This film is rated R for good reason – with a few heads exploding, a plethora of swearing, and crude attempts at humor. So on my scale of 1 to 5, Burn After Reading grabs a 3. Based mostly on the entertainment factor and the quality of the acting. There is nothing spectacular about the film and it doesn’t merit any ‘hype’ other than the fact that Pitt is on the screen again. Should you see it? Well, that’s up to you of course.

(Sidenote: ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ staring Pitt releases Christmas Day 2008.)

Coco Chanel, a Cowboy and a Basement

Published on August 14, 2008 in Entertainment and Some Sort of Review. 4 Comments

Last night I ventured out on the town to take in a bit of live music. It’s a great town for that if you have yet to hear. Nashville has a decent amount of indie type players, singers/songwriters and the like. The stereotype that this place is all country music is ridiculous. If you avoid the honky-tonk row on Broadway and saturate yourself with the surrounding side streets and villages, you will come to love the sub-culture that is Nashville. And just a side-note for Nashville as a whole: Please put away the “Nashville is the next L.A.” t-shirts. The ‘Ville is just dandy the way it is. Those shirts may be cool for your kids in 15 to 20 years when the printing of everything ‘retro’ picks back up. I wouldn’t really want any of what L.A. offers here (other than a beach).

Back to the reason for the photos bookending the text… We decided to check out the ASCAP show at The Basement instead of the incredibly crowded Belcourt Theatre, featuring Brooke Waggoner (hopefully I’ll catch one of her shows soon). The opening act at The Basement brought Dumb and Dumber to my mind as he first took to the stage. Merely based upon his ‘getup’ (mimicking the single colour cowboy outfitting of Harry and Lloyd-exchanging cowboy hat for indian headband). Levi Weaver was the name. As he began playing, I must be honest, I mumbled inside my head, “Not another guy performing loop tricks with the foot pedals…” I let opinions leave as he began to play, yet it wasn’t until his cover of Idioteque by Radiohead that I began to gain respect for what he did. He did it well. From that song on I was into what he was selling and rather enjoying it. This is an artist that you should definitely check out on Myspace and purchase an album. His music is great for a night of easy-listening; presenting reflecting story-telling songs a la the late great Johnny Cash. Some of my favs include Which Drink, You Are Home and Of Bridges Burned. I can see a healthy career for this cat within a comfy pocket. And upon reading that he did some touring with the loop master Imogen Heap in 2006 means that he knows how to get connected and gain respect.

Chanel Campbell took the stage with a strong sense of belonging. She seemed very comfortable as if she had been performing these songs for years and they were a part of her. I had the chance to give her music a quick listen prior to heading over to The Basement, just hearing her ‘on tape’ was enough to impress. And as I heard her perform she proved to be a well rounded artist coupling an infectious penetrating voice live with a superb studio ability. Dissecting her words as she sang I felt a familiarity with them, not in an “I’ve heard this before” sense of the word yet an “I’ve felt this before.” Her stories of love and want breathed a relatable comfort to the listener and a wanting to hear more. At one point she presented an Elvis cover with ease and gave it ownership. Gaining much respect for ‘doing a cover the proper way.’ Her voice slightly parallels that of early Jewel with a touch of Feist, yet in no way is that a true comparison as she introduces a voice that is all her own. With the right path, Chanel will without question rise to the top, it’s only a matter of time. Her songs are very well written containing just the proper dose of hook and sing-ability, meaning she can reach a wide variety of listeners and really hit home. The tune I can’t seem to cease listening to is Never Enough. However, there isn’t one track that I don’t want to hear again and again. This will be a much anticipated album for me when it is released. Do head over to Chanel’s Myspace page and give all of her songs a good listen. The album release date is unknown at this point, but I do know that she will be performing again live on September 1st at the Mercy Lounge in Nashville, and at the famed Hotel Café in L.A. September 15th. So all my Nashville and Cali readers get on out to the shows!