FOND FAREWELL...

I'm done with this blog...I hope you have all enjoyed the music etc. that I have been sharing.

I went to see Eskimo Joe support Portland OR indie band 'Stars of Track & Field' at Empty Bottle on Saturday night. I am officially an uber fan of these guys, and have been since the beginning. Frankly, they kick arse live, and if you ever get the opportunity to catch them, ensure you do! They work a crowd, be it music festivals and large venues in Australia, or in an intimate venue such as The Annandale (NSW) or Empty Bottle (IL). One word I always use to describe them is faultless. Chatted to Kav on my way out and he was saying they were hoping to be back in Feb/March for a more extensive headlining tour. Good luck in New York tonight, lads!
So here is 'Black Fingernails, Red Wine' live at LIVE EARTH in Sydney, 2007.

Here is the new single from one of my fav Sydney bands, Faker. I first came across these guys when I was feelancing for a small PR agency in Sydney's Inner West, and their management company were located above us. This is their new single 'This Heart Attack' from their second album, (released 10 November in Australia) Be The Twilight (congrats Nathan :)!).

Crocodile, the new release from Underworld.
My track of the week.

One of my loves is trashy euro dance. Some tracks are just so slickly produced, with the correct formula that just makes you wanna shake it. I especially love the video clips accompanying them. Poor Therese is struggling all throughout this clip...he..sorry..she's a real lil trooper!! Here's her European summer hit 'Feelin Me'

Get yo sexy on...

Some weeks ago a discussion took place at the dinner table between LP and I (with poor Niner sitting with us shaking his head) about songs that just simply DEFINITELY put one in the mood, if ya know what I mean!

So after much memory mapping, and scanning my music library, here are my "top ten" songs/albums that get my sexy on!:

10: Mixed Up - the Cure
09: I love It - Sneaky Sound System
08: Cherish The Day - Sade
07: Fastlove - George Michael
06: (Goodbye Country) Hello Nightclub - Groove Armada
05: Closer (actually the whole of 'Downward Spiral') - NIN
04: Get To Know Ya - Maxwell (actually most anything that Maxwell does!Mmmmm...)
03: Dummy - Portishead
02: Buzzin' Fly Vol 1. - Ben Watt
01: Unfinished Sympathy - Massive Attack

And to close this post, here is the new track from Moloko's Roisin Murphy, 'Let Me Know'

Here is the new video '2 Hearts' from Kylie Minogue's new album 'X', released Nov 12. Sensational new single, and album! (it has been on constant rotation on my ipod all morning...makes for a very good Wednesday!)This Lil Aussie's prediction...the single and album will be HUGE!!

Old Blighty leads the way in GLB (& maybe T) rights!

LONDON (AFP) - The government announced Monday plans to outlaw the incitement of hatred against homosexuals.

"It is a measure of how far we have come as a society in the last ten years that we are now appalled by hatred and invective directed at people on the basis of their sexuality," Justice Secretary Jack Straw said.

"It is time for the law to recognise this."

Straw said that the new legislation would protect gay men, lesbians and bisexuals.

He added that the government would consider arguments on whether it should be extended to include disabled and transgendered people, and would proceed "if a case can be made".

Progress is being made FINALLY to help ensure the safety of ALL Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and HOPEFULLY Transgender folk world wide!

Ok, you two gorgeous things, HAPPY HAPPY 2nd (Emma) and 4th (Chloe) BIRTHDAYS!!!

Timbaland feat. One Republic - Apologise

I never tire of this! Happy Friday!!

Upon listening to a promo version of Jennifer Lopez's new album Brave, I have decided that it is actually quite funkily good! She is keeping up with the styles! Woeful Marc Anthony crap however...remains disturbing....
Wanna share my two fav (and really the only Jennifer Lopez tracks I listen too), Feelin' So Good from her debut 'On the 6' and Do It Well from her newie, 'Brave'

Two & A Half Men

IT'S JUST NOT FUNNY!!!!!!!!

Why oh why does it survive, yet superbly written shows like Arrested Development get canned?????????

THE NETWORKS MAKES NO SENSE!!!!!!!! IT HURTS....sigh...it just isn't right.

Lil Red Squirrel!

The following email was sent from a friend, January, yesterday. It completely cracked me up, and I just had to share it.

"So this morning i came out my house, tryin' to get to
work so i can make that dollar and there was red
squirrel (a.k.a lil red), on my front step. he ran
over to the other side of the walk when he saw me, but
stared me down. i went about my bidness and kinda
ignored him. i realized i forgot somethin' upstairs,
so i went back to get it and when i came down, there
he was again on my stoop.

I said "what's up lil red?" as he took his position
back on the other side of the walk. i turned towards
my bike and i could feel his stare. when i looked
over, he was right behind me, trying to do a sneak
attack. i turned and tried to seem tough. i said
"look lil red, i don't know what you heard but i
didn't say nothin bout yo mama, see? i got no beef
wit chew and i'm just trying to go about my bidness.
you didn't hear this from me red, but word on the
street is that stray cat has been runnin his mouth
bout your moms, so why don't you talk to him?" i
could tell by his stony silence and intense stare that
he was tryin to see if i was bein honest, so i brought
real.

I said" look lil red, i got enough troubles. stray
cat has me payin him for "protection" every week and
it don't come cheap. i got to feed him and all his
stray goons every night. thay don't want the jewel
brand cat food either, i got to feed the organic pet
promise brand. imagine that! feedin them the same as
i feed my own! they gonna run me outta house and
home, but i gotta do it - what choice do i have?"
"so you see red, i'm not about to try to have problems
with someone else. so you just move on and leave me in
peace."

i thought i had made myself clear, but he moved in
again. i knew i had to do something, even if what is
was wasn't pretty...
...so i took my keys off my bag and SHOOK THEM AS LOUD
AS I COULD IN HIS GENERAL DIRECTION!!! he ran up in a
nearby tree.
i got on my bike and pedalled outta there as fast as
i could! i took one look back and saw him staring at
me. i knew it wasn't over. in fact, it had just
begun...
that's the way of the street though...

ps - this is based on a true story!"

Thanks to you Ms January, for the most amusing story of the week!

Sunset over Wrigley Field

Baseball season is coming to an end. So I thought a nice sunset pic taken from my kitchen over Wrigley Field would be fitting.

Gay. (cause I don't know what else to call it!)

It's Wednesday night all is feeling quite settled. I have accomplished many things at work already lending to a very chilled end of the week. Scheduled meetings down to a most decent amount. (only two painless ones off site..however causes next week to be a biaaatch!) So it has been many, many months since I have had a truly 'gay moment'. What better way (apart from watching Caberet) than crank up Kylie Minogue's 'Showgirl Homecoming' concert. This brings me to thinking about all things Australia, all things Kylie, and subsequently all things gay! So having this time to chill at work this week, I am getting acquainted with the College and its GLBT stance. I popped over to the Wabash campus to check out the Annual Multicultural Family Reunion, where a work colleague's drag alter Sharon St James was the host. It was fun to listen to her, knowing James. But like he warned 'I can not be held accountable for anything that comes out of her mouth..EVER!' An amazing performer, and an amazing 3 hour transformation. (And looks freaking amazing in both a skirt and a kilt which he doesn't wear often enough!) I love Sharon! So a fun event went on, ethnic food stalls, dance lessons, calligraphy, a DJ and an artist painting on stage...oh, and did I mention the food???? (Wow...the cornbread was sensational!) So it actually feels nice to be a part of an Educational facility that people enjoy being at, coming to and working for. It is one of the countries most GLBT friendly schools, and being an Arts College, it would naturally be! But it got me thinking about my own homosexuality. I am an out male, have been since I was 17 (19 to my poor Mother..sorry Mum!) and have known so biologically and inherently for as long as I can remember. There has never been a heterosexual moment in my life. I am what some have been known to dub a 'pure blood'! Yet its kind of funny. I don't feel apart of a certain group of people, or even really with the gay community. Reason?? I can't answer that to tell you the truth!
I don't identify with the scene any more. Gay bars bore me and freak me out. (I know...not normal!!) I would much rather go to a pub/bar and chill then go to some meat market. I have always had a love/hate relationship with gay bars. When I was 17 and just moved to Sydney I would frequent The Oxford(Monday beers), Gilligans (EVERY Tue and Fri), The Albury (R.I.P...you are now a Puma Concept store!Oh, and Sundays before DCM), DCM (Saturdays and Sundays). Now its kind of weird for a gay male to be, but I am strictly from the 'I may be dim and gullible, but I will rip your testies off slowly in public if you grope my crotch/arse again! Unless I wanted you to (and, yeah, there were a number of them...I was young!) I have NEVER felt embarrassed, apologised for, been walked all over because of my sexuality. This I am most passionate about. Even though I do not associate myself with the gay community, I am a staunch and vocal supporter of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender rights. At Columbia, it feels great to be apart of a program running where you can offer your office or classroom as a safe haven for not only GLBT students having issues or being harassed, and needing someone to talk to, but to anyone! This little community feels great to be apart of.
Sheesh. I suppose I am just having a little ramble. Maybe the beers are going to my head. But if you needed confirmation of my sexuality, some lad explained it clearly enough at Lollapalooza. So to end...I feel the need for some more Kylie. However I think I will let LP and Miss Sara (and 9'ner!) have a moment with JT...and just a touch of Kyle's

Coming soon....Sharon St. James visits Columbia College Chicago

So, this post will make perfect sense very very soon. I know, what a work mates alter ego Sharon St.James and Kylie Minogue have in common is anyones guess!

'Daily Show' to the rescue!

It is not the best quality, its a little out of synch, but I wanted to get the full commentary...this ALWAYS shocks the shit out of me!
Jon Stewart, I love you!

Falling Slowly

'Once' is one of the best movie and soundtrack combinations that were released in 2007. Staring Glen Hansard, from Irish band The Frames, and Marketa Irglova, its a simple story of rediscovering love and healing of old wounds. The soundtrack moves me every time I hear it, and i recently got a copy of the duo's album 'The Swell Season' which features a number of their songs, as well as some newies. (cheers 9'ner!)
So I just wanted to share a video of 'Falling Slowly', compiled by clips from the film. An indie masterpiece.

Monday Monday..

...and a 'tres' brief weekend round up.Ahh, love an old photo booth. LP, Sara and I squeezed ourselves into the booth at the Long Bar where LP and I met up with the crew for a few drinks to celebrate Miss Sara's 30th B'day (cheers for dragging my carcass out of the apartment, LP! And a MOST happy birfffday to you, sweet Miss Vogt!)
The 'musical' highlight for me on the weekend?? Watching Britney's car-crash of a 'comeback performance' opening the MTV VMA's last night. Classic!!!!! The girl looked out of shape, bored, uncomfortable and couldn't even mime to save her self from utter critic panning!! I loved and laughed at every second of it!!
Second best thing to happen this weekend?? I FINALLY saw The Simpson's Movie! A SMASHINGLY funny couple of hours. (I walked out unable to get either the Spider Pig song out of my head, and hummed The Simpsons theme tune all the way home on the El...much to Laura's amusement!)
Third best thing...after a week of downs and downs last week, I FINALLY cleaned the apartment! Now I do not feel as if I am wallowing in my own filth!
So, its on with the work week...Happy Monday!

Life is crazy..

..life's just getting that little bit harder again, as I struggle with decisions that need to be made. I am tired. Very tired. Work is busy...CRAZY busy...but good! Columbia is a great school to work for. So to end my short work week, I had dinner with LP last night where we in typical 'us' fashion polishing off two bottles of red.
So posting is going to continue to be lazy "eg, songs and lil usless bits".
I leave you on this Saturday morning with two tracks. The first is a personal fav of mine, 'Beauty On The Fire' from Natalie Imbruglia to celebrate the release of her retrospective collection 'Glorious: The Singles 97-07', the second is the new single by the Sugababes, 'About You Now' from their upcoming album, 'Changes'.

Pic of the week.

My nieces, Chloe and Emma. (Emma apparently only wanted Chloe to feed her.)

On the eve of Dubya at APEC in Sydney...

Here is Keith Olberman's Special Comment on the current administration. I love it!

Dude, where's my bike??? (see also 'SOME SLIME BALL F#CK HAS STOLEN MY BIKE!!!)

Bobo, my dearly beloved Specialized Mountain Bike has been bike-napped! I am WELL pissed off!!!!! Not from outside my work, nor the grocery store, or even from outside the cinema...but FROM THE BIKE STORAGE ROOM IN MY APARTMENT BLOCK!!!! I can not fucking believe it! It took me so long to get a bike, and a kick arse one at that, with Will doing the searching for me on Craigslist (as I am usless and get bored looking through the hundreds of ads). She was my mode of transport to work, to everywhere! I was just getting back into shape again powering along, taking a bike ride after nearly every meal at night. And now I am stuffed!! Back to HAVING to catch the El to work and catching unreliable CTA everywhere for everything.
I am WELL pissed off.
Pricks..I kinda hope you go arse over tit over a car bonnet or slam into an opening car door to teach you a karmic lesson. (even though thinking like that isn't boosting my karmic points...but fuck it..I am upset about my bike!)
BASTARDS! I swear if I find it on Craigslist...someones balls are going to be stewed!

Annie's back!

Here is Annie Lennox's new single 'Dark Road' due for release on Septtember 24th

Hottie of the week - Shayne Ward : No U Hang Up

There's a dodgy ATM, eh bro!!

smh.com.au 21/8/07
"Long queues mostly made up of backpackers flocked to an ATM in Queenstown, New Zealand, after it began dispensing twice as much cash as intended, without recording the loss from a customer's account.

Bruce Thompson from Kiwibank said the organisation won't be chasing up the lost money, which occurred when a contractor incorrectly stacked the ATM, putting $20 notes in the $10 box and $10 notes in the $20 box.

"The idea of going to Australian-based banks and saying we want to do a recovery of $100 is a very difficult area," he said.

The bank's ATMs are normally set up to dispense $20 as two $10 notes, so by carrying out numerous $20 transactions, those at the outlet doubled their money.

According to a report in the Southland Times newspaper, queues of 15-20 happy, smiling people lined up at the bank from 10pm (2000 AEST) on Tuesday night until 4am (0200 AEST) on Wednesday morning.

"This is not unique. It has certainly happened before. What is different here is the publicity ... There were heaps of backpackers queuing up," Thompson said.

The cash cow dried up only after a taxi driver who saw the long queues and people texting the information to their friends, called police.

But the error was not all good news for people lined up at the ATM.

Those intending on getting $20 notes from the machine received only half as much money as they expected.

People who were shortchanged will be reimbursed by the bank."

Coming back...

...just been a little busy at the moment, so stay tuned!

"Cause you know its sad but true....

...It's Not Me, It's You!"
After seeing Paul performing with Silverchair at Lollapalooza, it is time to share one of my fav tracks from his second album 'Panic Room', featuring Nagiire on vocals.

Want me baby.....

The debate still wages if Madge is over and done with, however, here we have her performing with Massive Attack, singing Marvin Gaye.
I love it.

Soulmates...two variations...

Here are two tracks addressing a notion that I have been thinking about strongly for a while. The thought of a 'soulmate'. What is a soulmate?? Do they have to be your lover? Or can they appear in the form of a friend?? What happens when you think you have found yours, but it's all wrong?? I dunno...Monday brain farts!
The first is a live version from one of my fav bands Placebo of 'Soulmates Never Die', and the second is the new single in the UK for Natasha Bedingfield, oddly titled 'Soulmate'.

Last nights dream...

Be Kind, Rewind

Singing Lolly Lolly! (a re-cap!)

So yet another years music extravaganza ends for another year.
Another great time was had, dancing and much much merriment with my Lollapalooza buddies whom I meet at the 2006's (cheers Jase!) of Sarah and Tomas, and Will.
So quick recap.

Friday:
HOT HOT HOT DAY!
The longest day of the Festival weekend for me. Started with The Fratelli's at 11.30am and ending with Daft Punk who closed the show at 10pm.
Bands seen and thumbs up/thumbs down.
- The Fratellis : Good but wern't really concentrating as we just met up with S & T.
- Chin Up, Chin Up : Good sized stage for them and fun happy tunes
- Ted Leo & The Pharmacists : Didn't really pay attention...to busy being silly!
- Jack's Manequin : NICE! Fun and great tunes...played their little hearts out!
- Sparklehorse - Brought my vibe down, had some lovely melodic tunes, but I just couldn't get into it. Need to listen to them away from the Festival Grounds.
- M.I.A. : As alwasy with her, a bit of hit and miss...I was excited to see her, as was Jenny, but she sort of lost me...and I think she sort of lost it herself. But some stomping tunes!! I got a 'booty shake' in!
Insert interlude here where I spent the next 30mins helping some woman get back her mobile phone she dropped which I found. Mission accomplished and lots of drunken hugs from said woman!
- LCD Soundsystem : UNREAL! I had so much fun listening to these guys, just the fusion of rock and electronica that one needs!
- Daft Punk : What can I say....my legs are still sore from dancing like a psycho...a great set, a great light show, and of course tunes to move it to big time! I am always happy to see a line up with them on.

Saturday:
Cooler, grey and more comfortable
Two and a half highlights...
- Silverchair : Daniel, Chris and Ben, along with Paul Mac, put on a FANTASTIC performance to remind the USA on how good they really are! When the performed Ana's Song and Freak...I lost it!
- Patty Smith : Only saw half the show as we had to fly back to the other side to prepare for Muse and catch the end of Spoon, but she was great! What an amazing talent! And the crowd wanted more of her...she was truly great!
- Muse : KICK ARSE as always. Nothing more can be said for the show these guys consistently put on. Highlights: Time Is Running Out, Hysteria, Sunburn, Invincible, New Born and Super Massive Black Hole...oh, and Knights Of Cydonia which the crowd went ballistic for!
POO POO OF THE DAY:
Cold War Kids : Stage was WAY TOO small...sound was patchy, and generally LET DOWN!! And I love these guys...but you can't have your cake and eat it too!

SUNDAY :
RAIN...grey and rainy and HUMID as all hell!
- Amy Winehouse : YAY! Finally a great set by Ms Winehouse...that raspy voice, that hair...she did herself proud. And its a good things, as she just got back to the UK and was admitted to Hospital for exhaustion...whoops...did her partying at Lolla do her in??
- Paolo Nutini : Great. A bit too chilled for 3.15pm on a humid Sunday afternoon, was much more suited to the Double Door when I saw him there back in January. But still a cutie, and a great singer/songwriter!
- Kings Of Leon : HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEKEND!!!!! I love these lads so much. Such an awesome stage presence and rocked the park...especially when Eddie Vedder decided to join them onstage for their finale. I had my 1st Loll-orgasm...and Sarah joined me! Truly great set. I was a most happy man afterward.
Modest Mouse : Great to see Johnny Marr on stage playing with them, and sounded great, however at that point I was 'spent'!
So, no Pearl Jam to close the festival, but a nice relaxing bath and the memories of Kings Of Leon...ahhhh...that will stay with me for years! K of L ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!
And then it was back to work on Monday...2007 over and out!

Lolla, Lolla, Lolly!!

It's tomorrow. I have a 'summer day' which gives me the day off work so I can attend the three days guilt free! I have waited for this since August last year, and now it's just one more sleep till I have three days of music, sun and booze to indulge! Then Monday night its off to Tucson, Arizona for a three day conference....but I won't think about that just yet! Just LOLLAPALOOZA!!!!!!!!
I hope you all have as great a weekend as I will no doubt have...

Gossip.

Some circumstances in my life have changed and I have decided that I will not be posting anymore until the 'dust settles' and people find some other source of gossip to move on to. So please don't fill my inbox/Facebook account with questions, cause right now I am not interested in talking or people knowing my business. It is just that...mine. I am not interested in being fuel for gossip.

Monday's tune (I am taking a Holiday!)

With the new job at Columbia College (which is FAB!), riding my NEW FANTASTIC bike around this gorgeous city, and getting settled with life...I am still going to be M.I.A. for a while longer. But as Lollapolooza is only two weeks away, I will be probably be posting some artist associated related clips!
Naturally, Mel C is not going to be at Lolla...I just love her new track, and feel that her 'indie pop' is being terribly underrated by the world! (I did the PR for her previous release 'Beautiful Disaster' ..a great pop album...sadly bombed without the support of a major label. So I hope you all enjoy this Monday does of pop!
Two new things I am loving :
Golden Bond Medicated Powder. I LOVE that menthol tingle on my crotch!
My homemade Southern Cornbread (cheers for the recipe LP!!) Last nights batch turned out DELICIOUS!!
Happy Sunny Monday all!

"All I know is that I should..."

I scored freebies for Will and I to go and see the new Harry Potter in 3D at the Imax on Navy Pier last night. Two words...most enjoyable!!!

However it was this morning that brought some welcome and much needed relief from seven months of job hunting (100's...literally!), filler jobs that payed my way, and one terrible false start.

I got a new proper full time salaried job with Columbia College. (FINALLY!!!) It's a newly created position, dead suited to my qualifications, great pay (been so long!) and the full benefits package that people in the States value so much. And breathe...

I am excited. This time next week will be my start day, and no more speaking to the general public, but I will be missing my current position at the Ad Agency. But this is going to kick arse!! I wish to note my mood has elevated from excited to ecstatic! Phew...hurdle number one out of the way...

So for a midweek song, I want to share what will be the most talented and lovely Missy Higgins's new single set for a July Oz release. 'Where I Stood'. The sincerity in her songwriting and delivery just captured me the first listen. Its a song that I feel. And those who know Sydney, you will easily recognize St James Station and the underground maze of tunnels that lead to the start of Macquarie St.

Happy Hump Day All!

Quote of the Week!

"He doesn't seem the sort of bloke we want in this country."

Australian immigration minister Kevin Andrews pours cold water on Snoop Dogg's desire to become an Australian citizen.

Happy Friday, Ok?? (I [heart] cartoons!)

I LOVE cartoons. I am 31 and I am not afraid to admit it! My fav of course is the absurdity and irreverence of 'Family Guy', however give me 'The Simpsons', 'Count Duckula', 'Battle Of The Planets', 'Voltron' (both versions..how many of you remember them??) 'Thundercats', 'Astro Boy', 'South Park' and of course 'Transformers', and I am a child again! Some newer ones even pass the grade, like 'Batman - The Dark Knight'.
Add to the list some Manga; Akira, Blood- The Last Vampire, Spirited Away, Aeon Flux and the Disney/Pixar classics 'Madagascar', 'Cars', 'The Incredibles', 'Finding Nemo', 'Over The Hedge', 'Happy Feet', 'Monsters Inc', 'Robots' and I am all smiles.
Now there are two films I am yet to see, and may just do a double viewing on Sunday given they are expecting the heat index to reach the 100degF/40degC mark in Chicago, I might FINALLY get to see 'Surf's Up' and 'Ratatouille'!

Which leads me to the point of this post. My newest addiction is Lil Bush! I love it. I find myself speaking like him on a daily basis...and frankly that scares the shit out of me! I NEVER thought I would EVER emulate vocally the 'Worlds Greatest Tool' (Lil Johnny Howard...your coming close though to being a runner up...if it wasn't for F*Wit Cheney!)

To kick start your weekend, and for those at home and in the UK who may not have experienced it yet, here is a taster. Lil Bush should end the week with a bang. Just as long as its not a W.M.D.!!!


Enjoy your weekend everyone!

Fasting

Today is day one of a body detox cleansing fast.
Its a liquid based fast, which is guaranteed to clean out all the 'nasties' that accumulate in one's body.

So in preparation for 10 days/2 weeks of not eating or drinking anything (except for a special tea and this concoction of lemon juice, cayenne pepper, maple syrup and salt...mmm...tasty!) I used the 4th July celebrations yesterday to eat a smashing breakfast at Ann Sather's of Eggs Benedict, biscuits, hash browns and a cinnamon roll, then chicken tenders and coleslaw for dinner, choc chunk cookies and a case of Stella Artois! (I convinced Will that starting the diet on a public holiday probably wouldn't be the best idea, given the fact that...well...it's a holiday and I really wanted to say 'bye bye' to my dear friend, Stella for a couple of weeks!)
I am glad I am doing it with Will. Bye bye bloated feeling!

On a final note, it was so cute as Will came tearing into the bedroom last night as I was passed out with his first batch of our wonder elixir in his hands joyfully declaring 'Its made, I did it. We are ready to start!!' holding a 2.2 litre bottle of this orange/yellow liquid.
So I congratulated him through barely opened, slightly drunk eyes, looked at the clock (it was 11.50pm, technically still the 4th) ran out to the kitchen and shoved another cookie into my mouth. Then proceeded to chase it down with a lovely cup of laxative tea that Will had prepared for me.

Ahhh...to health and vitality!

NB. The first batch proved to be something of a hot & spicy affair! Cayenne pepper amounts need to be re calibrated. Phew, I don't think I am meant to be sweating in an air conditioned office! I also don't think one is supposed to be able to follow the passage of the liquid all the way down given the burn factor...but I will proceed with the consumption of it.

On a completely unrelated note....I was STILL dreaming of Wii last night!!!! This thing has me totally and utterly addicted!!!!! Must play more...

Happy 4th July...my public holiday recap.

Firstly 'Transformers recap: I loved its cheesy-ness, and Shai LaBeouf is actually gonna be a great lil actor! Was not disappointed by it at all! It was a STACK of fun (Loaf, K.I.D., Classy..as fans, I think you will enjoy also!) Good times, got a few good laughs, abig bang action film (although some of the shots were a little fast and blurred, actually making the action sequences a lil hard to follow at times) LP liked it, so did Cherry, however 9Niner seemed a little over it very quickly.

Been bike riding and getting out enjoying the beauty of the Lake and the sun! I played Wii with a mate of mine this morning, and let me tell you...IT KICKS ARSE! BIG TIME!! I am not really a fan of PS, PS2, X-Box etc, but Wii is completely different. And blew my mind!

And even though its only July, I am pretty much certain that the following song will be a major contender for 'Aussies Song Of The Year'.I love it, I must listen to it daily! I WANNA MARRY IT!!!...sigh...meds will kick in soon..
I have been waiting for the video to be released to share it with everyone for close to three months, (actual a double single release for both Mutya and Groove Armada from their new albums respectively, hitting stores 27 July in UK) and so finally I can post it for you all. May this song bring you as much booty shaking delight as it does to me!

Song For Mutya (Out Of Control) - Groove Armada feat. Mutya Buena (Universal)

I simply can't get enough of this song. It has been on steady rotation for the past couple of months. Just the 'dancetastical' remedy for everything!

A Happy 4th July everyone, brought to you by the hilarity of Lil Bush on Comedy Central! Check it out!!


Back to work tomorrow, but that's cool! I had a lovely two days, and then its only two days till the weekend! Besides, I am still in the honeymoon phase at my new job.

Not looking forward to starting my body detox diet this week...will keep you posted how it goes...

SERIOUSLY WETTING MYSELF!!!!!!!!!!

Ok, so I have a lover who talks about sharting himself, but I am close to loosing complete control of all my bodily functions with excitment, as.....

I AM GOING TO SEE TRANS-FREAKING-F&*KING-FORMERS AT 6.30PM!!!!!!!!!

I need a valium...and decaf....if these dudes are in the actual film, it would be even sweeter...

Bassey is back...and other new albums I will be listening too this week.

After a day of drinking,tubing, swimming and lying in the water with Will's cousins and family up on the Lake in Indiana, (yep, year two in a row that Lil Aussie gets pushed into the water by a 10 yr old whilst fully clothed!) I am starting this week sore from sunburn, and with muscular aches after holding onto the awesome tube, whilst being towed and flung around the Lake by a jet ski! Too much fun for a Sunday!!
So this week, it is a wondrous melange of music for the listeners palate.

Album #1. Get This Party Started - Dame Shirley Bassey
This is an album I have been totally surprised by! I have always been a fan of the Welsh legend, however this album proves that she is not only a powerhouse vocalist, but has a sense of humour and a great production team to light her way!
The album opens with a rendition of Pink's 'Get The Party Started' which just sounds hysterical when she recites the line 'Boulevard is freaking as I am coming up fast, I'll be burning rubber, you'll be kissing my arse'! Classic! It also features a remake of 'Big Spender' a sexy 'Slave To The Rhythm', 'You Only Live Twice and even a trippy take on Lionel Richie's 'Hello'. If you liked Shirley performing 'History Repeating' with The Propellerheads, I am pretty sure you will love this album. A true living vocal legend, in my book! Never mind the snobbery...check it out

Album #2.Zeitgeist - The Smashing Pumpkins
So, I when I first heard Tarantula, I thought that the Pumpkins might be on their way back from self imposed/ self indulgent/ crap music making phase. After many a disappointing release, they are back. Its a good album, not great, but if they had release albums like this instead of 'Adore' and 'Machina', many people would give them more of a chance. It does however echo sentiments of samples picked from early 80's new romantics meshed with their trademark sound. Highlights for me include 'That's The Way (My Love Is)', 'For God And Country' and 'Bring The Light' as well as the single 'Tarantula'. They also have one track from the album, 'Doomsday Clock' featured in the new 'Transformers' flick. It's no 'Siamese Dream' in my book however, but a inherently more enjoyable album than past efforts.

A Chicago Saturday Sunrise

Insomnia sucks. After a fun night watching 'Hot Fuzz' again with LP and 9Niner over a couple of beers at Brew & View at the Vic (I think one of my fav Chicago spots...like the Metro Theatre venue in Sydney, with a big screen showing movies and beer on tap!) I strangely couldn't get a proper nights sleep. So around 4am I got up and thought, what better day to get up and hit the bike and take some early morning photo's around the Lake near our apartment. What a lovely morning.

Music was selected;

Underpass from our side of the street under Lake Shore Drive to the Lake;

Boats around Belmont Harbour;

City skyline with a plethora of fishermen;

Sunrise over Belmont Harbour;

View from the bike track across Lake Shore Drive to my neighbourhood;

Now its 7.57am, and I might hop back into bed...or brew a pot of coffee!

Have a great weekend everyone!

My fetish!

Ok, I am confessing to a 'wee' fetish and obsession of mine. This is not one of your run of the mill sexual fetishes, like those who get off on people in denim, leather or themselves. It is just a obsessive fetish for...pens. Stationary in general, to be exact! No matter where I work, if there is great stationary on offer, I usually stock myself up! I am from the school of 'you can NEVER have too many pens!' Which brings me to today's adventure.

I was given the grand tour of the stationary department of the Ad Agency I work for today, and let me say, this Lil Aussie was in a shopping heaven!! I was told to set myself up with whatever quality stationary I needed, even though my office is stock up on pens, note pads, highlighters, you get the picture. I spent a good 35mins going through the plethora of cupboards and draws almost salivating at the quality of the products they had on offer, and subsequently going back to my office with a little carrier bag full! Pens with different grade nibs, gel inks, Sharpies (permanent markers) in 5 different sizes, and four different colours, big note pads, little ones, post it notes in so many various shapes and sizes that I simply HAD to have one of each!

It is definitely true to say that I am truly never without a pen. Or note pad. Or post it notes! You may just NEVER know when you may need them...

I think I should start practicing my rehab chant...'Hi. My name is Aussie and I am an addict'

On a further note, the first reviews of 'Transformers' are in from Australian screens and they are MOST favourable!! Which is whetting my appetite even further for next weeks North American release even more!!!! I'M GEEKILY EXCITED!!!!!

Oscar

Thanks Bobby for the following snap of my fav little 'woolly sheep that barks', Oscar.
It's the simple things that can brighten a day.

The Tears Dry On Their Own.

Amy Winhouse's new clip is a modern day version of Massive Attack's Unfinished Sympathy, which is in my top ten fav songs of all time, with addition of drag queens and trannies.
Great song from Amy, showcases her voice nicely.

Transformers for me!

I am so looking forward to the new Transformers film. I was a serious addict when I was in my early years.Collected all the toys, had the videos, comic and even movie soundtrack (priceless 80's cock rock for a cartoon!) Loved the escapism from reality, the thought of joining some alien robots combat the forces of evil. It was fantastical.

One of the most traumatic experiences in my childhood was when I went snooping for Optimus Prime I was getting for Christmas. I searched my parents room, took it out of the box and proceeded to play with it. Lets just say they were not impressed to see me sitting on the floor in their room playing with what should have been my Christmas present. Mum was even adamant she was going to take it back and I was to have nothing else. I cried and grovelled begging her profusely to not return it! She didn't, phew cause he was kick arse, but the moral of the story is....ah, who cares?
But I am most excited about the new movie, staring Shia LaBeouf. Don't know what I typed his name...Shia Labeouf, Shia Labeouf...sounds like he should be working the Moulin Rouge.

End my 5 days of Garbage with 'Breaking Up The Girl' from Version 2.0.

Fridays Garbage!

This week has been an eventful one. It was a week I started a new job at an Advertising Agency as an Accounts Assistant 3 days a week (who would have thought, numbers and me, blending together harmoniously!) AND I am loving it! 9-5pm, my own office, working autonomously, and I get to play music all day!! Sweeeeet!
After a long & busy work week for me, here are some things I have managed to achieve;
* I finally satisfied my craving for chili mac at Harmony Grill (the BEST chili mac in Chicago! Its exactly what it sounds like, a layer of meat chili, covered by a layer of mac & cheese, with some breadcrumbs on top and grilled slightly. So good!)
* I visited Chicago's Botanical Gardens and got a nature fix. However the seas of people indicated that school holidays really aren't the time to go there for some peace and quiet.
* Found a pub on Broadway which had $3 Stella's and deep fried mac & cheese bites (soooo unbelievably good!!)
To end the week, I present ten indispensable Garbage tracks in random order;

1. Nobody Can Win
2. The Trick Is To Keep Breathing
3. Run Baby Run
4. Vow
5. Special
6. Cup Of Coffee
7. Parade
8. You Look So Fine
9. Supervixen
10. Medication

And today's track is 'Why Do You Love Me?' from 'Bleed Like Me'. One ferocious track I love rocking out too!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND, EVEYONE!

On The 'Run, Baby Run'

Too busy to post today....lots of work to be done! So to make up for yeterdays lack of Garbage, I am double dosing today.
Run Baby Run from their last album 'Bleed Like Me' and


Shut Your Mouth from 'Version 2.0'

Garbage! Absolute Total Garbage!

It is the week of Garbage! With the release of their greatest hits, 'Absolute Garbage' possibly-maybe-perhaps FINALLY scheduled for a 16th July release in Oz and the UK (North American release still not confirmed at this point) I have decided to post 5 tracks for 5 days. The first is a new release called 'Tell Me Where It Hurts'.
I love this band, so much fun live, and Shirley Manson is one of the coolest ladies I have had the privilege of meeting!
ROCK ON, YA'LL! (ok, that sounded tragic, but you get the idea!)

What does it mean??

Weird dream of the week #1.

My Grandmother, Tina Turner rode to see me on a tricycle, with her new 'husbang' Dean Geyer on the handlebars. She was telling me all about her days in the Navy, whislt sitting at a bar somewhere in the middle of a Wal Mart.

Weird...just ever so slightly...

Now on with the day.

My love of Purell! (5 things you may not have known about Lil Aussie)

Today, I want to share a few things about One Lil Aussie that some people may not know. Others know them all. Its a bit of a cathartic post.

I am a rather simple man (in more ways than one!), not very high maintenance and do not need very much these days for a happy existence. However the following things 5 things make me one very happy Lil Aussie.

1. Purell Hand Sanitizer - As most of the people close to me know, I am a bit of a germ-a-phobe. I don't touch metal poles on trains or buses, carry my own pen around everywhere, despise public bathrooms. I have been like this all my life, and it was even was the subject at a dinner party I attended with my old mate in Sydney and her parents around 8 years ago (they thought I was mad! Wait till the outbreak of flesh eating virus, and then we will see who is crazy, mmmkay???) I purchased two 354ml/12Oz bottles for $4 at said Kroger...Managers Special! Now my desk at work is complete.

2. Music. What can I say. EVERYONE who knows me (or reads this blog can figure out) that I am a true music junkie. I don't function without music, and need it on a daily basis. I am not much of a music snob, if anyone can take the time to make a record/ep, I am pretty sure I will give it a listen. (that said, I DO draw the line at Paris Hilton!) Nuff said!

3. My nieces - I have two of the most gorgeous wonderful little bunnies in the whole world. Nothing surpasses them in my book and they are two beings I would gladly give my life for. As I am a big kid myself, nothing makes me feel more humble, more at ease, more relaxed about my life than holding and laughing with a child. Every other trouble/worry/materialistic thing pales in comparison when you have the responsibility of taking care of a child. Most of the happiest memories I have over the past four years have had Chloe in them. With the addition two years ago of Emma, I am one very stoked Uncle.

4. Friends - When I turned 30, I took time to re-evaluate my life, and the company I keep. Everyone needs to do this every so often to ensure you keep moving forward in your life, and not take too many steps back. Besides life is far too short to be wasting time on people who are not real, or that you really have nothing in common with. So I have a great cluster of friends around the globe whom I cherish closely. So this little homage to those folks with whom I couldn't live without. AUS & UK - Mikey, Boo, Princess, TP, Cells, Dolly Drop Draws, Fi, Moz, Wifee, Bobby, Luke and to my USA clan that keep me grounded and sane on a daily basis, starting with my Wonder Twin LP, Niner, Browler, Jay-Jay, Krista and the DC Gang!

5. My sanity. I have been through quite a bit for a 31 year old, and I have lived my life to the fullest in more ways than one. I have travelled the globe a couple of times over, met some AMAZING people, educated in Australia and the UK, hung out with the seedy to the snobby, and indulged in far too much of everything. I am so happy to have come out the other side with my sanity (or scraps of it!) still intact. Things that meant so much to me once, do not matter anymore. I learnt to be thankful with what I have and not dwell or beat myself up for my life not heading in the direction that I always dreamt it would. As Doris Day once sang, 'Que Sera, Sera' (OMG...that is probably the gayest thing I have said in a while!) Everyday is an adventure, and everyday I am thankful in one way or another for still being here! One thing I can NEVER call my life is boring.

Last but not least, there are four people with whom I thank the stars for daily. Mum, Dad, Fiona and Will. Thanks for putting up with this 6"4 crazy man, and loving me for what I am!

Happy Monday with Tracey Thorn!

Happy Monday everyone! A most 'loverley' weekend was had, starting with Taste Of Randolph Friday night and ending today with getting back from Indiana. Yet again a slight hangover was obtained.
So I will just post quickly now and kick start the week with the new single from Tracey Thorn called 'Raise The Roof'.

Who you callin' white trash???

I have done it! I have finally had my first White Castle for dinner. Hard to believe, I know, that I have been here this long and not sampled the culinary delights, but let me tell you, I feel nasty, dirty and soooo good!

So I will continue to cultivate my goatee for the weekend up at the lake, dust off the flannel, get me a rats tail or mullet, eat me some more White Castle, hang out at the Stock Cars & Wal Mart, drink some moonshine, everclear, or methylated spirits... shoot some pigs...you got the idea...
Then all I will need would be Will to knock out a couple of my teeth, and I will have the perfect look for Indiana!

Weekend, here I come!

Aussie-ism for the week!

'...they stick out like dogs balls!'

MEANING:

Used to describe something that is very obvious and stands out from the norm.

Half a year going, going...gone!

Well its June and half the year is over. After a false start and a couple of 'wee' hiccup's in a very crappy May, I have made my return to the Chicago Symphony. The Arts is back in my life again, and let me tell you, I am most relieved. Its feels just like the comfort of your fav T-shirt, its what you know, and I am back amongst it. I got a great response walking into the office this morning on my first day back, and it feels good.

A quick weekend recap, Friday night, I took Will to see 'Once', the modern day musical, and I loved it! Despite the motion sickness caused by the camera work, the simple story and of love lost/found and the exquisite songs by The Frames made this such a simple yet effective film. It was refreshing to see the emotions created by simple song mesh with film so harmoniously.

Saturday was spent running errands and having a wander around the Printers Row Book Festival, eating Taco Bell with Fred & Laura & then heading to Pontiac Cafe up in Wicker Park for a couple of Saturday afternoon beers in the sun. Thats when things started to get a little bit messy, in the best way! We headed to the Northside for a couple of Long Island Iced Tea's, some vodka cocktails and a shit load of laughing, and then Miss Laura and I headed off to Harmony Grill & Schuba's for some Chilli Mac (a layer of meat chilli covered in macaroni & cheese and lighltly baked in the oven. YUMMMMM!) whilst Will & Fred went to Will's brothers apartment for a bbq, where we would end up joining them later on in the night. Ahhh...good times! I feel like I am hanging out with my sister again when I am with Laura (considering they are he same height and same gaaaawjus looks! We are siblings from a different mother!) And she can go drink for drink with me, so for that, Laura I salute you!

Good times are ahead, as the Taste Of Randolph Festival is this coming weekend, where more eating and drinking will take place as we watch Fountains Of Wayne perform! Then its off to Indiana and the cottage for some peaceful R & R and a bit of swimming in the lake. Roll on June and summer.

Oh, and Happy Birthday, Will! Hope you are having a wonderful day!

So, to kick start the week, I give you a STOMPING summertime track from The Shapeshifters (remember 'Lola's Theme' & 'Back To Basics'), and their new single released 2nd July, 'Pusher'

Some Interlude Music...

Fountains of Wayne - Someone To Love.

Another 'wee' break.

I am off for a couple of weeks leave. Till I return, take care all!

Saturday's Stewie!

Still in the vein of lazy posting....something that always puts a 'smile on my dial'! Some Stewie Griffin.

'Don't Stop Now'....its Friday!!

New music for this warm Friday. Crowded House with 'Don't Stop Now'. This one is for Will! (we are off to see the guys at the House Of Blues on August 18th. A night where I will be mopping up Will's drool over Neil Finn. But should be absolutely brilliant!)
Happy weekend everyone!! I am kick starting mine by seeing 'Knocked Up' tonight! Can't wait!

Denver. Weekend roundup.

I am partaking in lazy posting at the moment. This is what I did all Memorial Day Long weekend. We socialised, we drank, we shopped, we ate, we drank and socialised some more! As well as heading up to the ever-so-pretty village of Vail for the night with Will & Krista. Such a beautiful place. Nice to escape Chicago. A break well deserved! Now we have returned, its time to give my liver a break.
And it was sublime to see our Krista again.

See ya Tuesday!

Ciao for now! Its a long weekend over here (Memorial Day) and I am off to Colorado tonight through till Monday night visiting Krista! I am most moist with excitement to see her!! Boo for plane flights, but yah for Ms Felicity (new ipod) to help me through!

Wednesday

This week is dragging. It sucks. At least the weather is beautiful!

Happy 'f'ing' Monday

After a fun day of hanging out with miss Laura last night (and Fred during the afternoon...one day...one day...), I wake this morning to discover...it's Monday! My 'light globe' in my brain still hasn't fired up, and I am still feeling like a vacant vessel. I swear you would be able to hear the sea in my head, or the constant repetition of the 'Dr Who' theme tune by the KLF. Sigh. At least its not 8 degC like it was yesterday. I loathe Monday.
So to cheer me up, the thought that this time next week I will still be waking up in Denver, Colorado where Will & I are heading to visit our Sista, Krista! And here is the latest single from my boys, Eskimo Joe.

For Kevin.

Removalists.

Removalist is a term used in Australia and in other places, a professional household goods mover. Just like American movers, removalists provide trucks, equipment, materials and manpower to pack, move, store and hoist people's household goods on a for hire basis.

'Live Earth'..wishing for a return ticket to Sydney's

So whilst I may be one of those out there who finds Madonna's track 'Hey You' (written & recorded with Pharell for Live Earth) just a little patchy (check out the deep lyrics..."Hey you, don't you give up, it's not so bad, there's still a chance for us. Hey you, just be yourself, don't be so shy, there's reasons why its hard/ keep it together you'll make it alright, our celebration is going on tonight"..blah blah. Good news is there is no denying that 'Hey You' is a positive environmental song. The more ways that Global warming message can be spread, can only lead to positive outcomes.
However my true upset is not being able to attend the Sydney Live Earth Concert. What a line up, what a gig! A truly great event to kick back, crack a couple of beers and roll a spliff in aid of our dear planet!
The set list nearly made me wet;

CROWDED HOUSE
TONI COLLETTE & THE FINISH
JACK JOHNSON
MISSY HIGGINS
ESKIMO JOE
SNEAKY SOUND SYSTEM
JOHN BUTLER TRIO
WOLFMOTHER
PAUL KELLY
GHOSTWRITERS
BLUE KING BROWN

Can Will & I get a couple of round trip tickets?? Its in support of The Earth, after all!