Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
More Martians
The Jazz Bus: More Martians
While watching television the other night with my bride and our youngest cub a movie preview came across the screen, one about aliens from outer space. Engaging in a conversation we first directed our attention to the vernacular of the word “alien” and how we now need to be truly “P.C.” by adding “from outer space” when using the word. Secondly, we had a laugh about my Venusians experiences recently. Well actually only I had a laugh, Lil Pup just shook his head as the Chief Venusian was listening to us and cautiously watching his reaction.
But then Lil’ Cub who is a movie bug further the conversation by suggesting Hollywood and Sci-Fi writers mostly display aliens “from outer space” as creatures unlike us, ones usually much, much bigger in size. Some have tentacles, others six arms, and most possess supernatural powers of some kind. He suggested, “What if aliens are already here, years ago, at creation maybe, and are so miniscule we never, ever see them or even know they are here? Just keeping records on humans and reporting back, or controlling what we do, sort of like using us as their toys.” WHAT? Flashback time, I ask him if he ever read THE MIND PARASITES by Colon Wilson. He said “only if it was a required book”, which I knew it was not. Stupid me. But it got me thinking.
Early 1970’s, my last semester of college I took what I thought was a basket weaving course called “Sci-Fi as Literature”. The professor was a known freak of the English Department who regularly chain smoked her student’ cigarettes. The syllabus was a listing of 100 novels broken down into 20 categories (5 books per), of which you were expected to read a total of 20, one per category. Every few classes she would intro a new category and you were expected to verbally participate or submit a 10 page double spaced paper. By the second week the class was basically empty, most opted out. Just a few stayed. As I needed another English credit I remained.
As the weeks went by the group became more and more enthusiastic in their discussions. Professor just sat atop her desk, nodding her head while lighting up a smoke. Toward the end of the semester she suggested we all read one more book, THE MIND PARASITES, and if the discussion was as exciting as she thought it would be, there would be NO FINAL EXAM. Done, we all bought the book. Probably, one of the best suggestions Professor Owen had.
Imagine an archeologist discovering invisible mind parasites that only “menace the brilliant people” on earth, Never to bother with the lazy, because they considered worthless in society. The only weapon against these murderous parasites is to push your mind to its limits, thereby destroying them in your brain. However, they are always present and only attack when you sense they are in your brain. If you even remotely think about them they multiple rapidly neutralizing brain cells. Both my bride and cub acknowledged that the Mind Parasites will never bother me. jazzbus@gmail.com
While watching television the other night with my bride and our youngest cub a movie preview came across the screen, one about aliens from outer space. Engaging in a conversation we first directed our attention to the vernacular of the word “alien” and how we now need to be truly “P.C.” by adding “from outer space” when using the word. Secondly, we had a laugh about my Venusians experiences recently. Well actually only I had a laugh, Lil Pup just shook his head as the Chief Venusian was listening to us and cautiously watching his reaction.
But then Lil’ Cub who is a movie bug further the conversation by suggesting Hollywood and Sci-Fi writers mostly display aliens “from outer space” as creatures unlike us, ones usually much, much bigger in size. Some have tentacles, others six arms, and most possess supernatural powers of some kind. He suggested, “What if aliens are already here, years ago, at creation maybe, and are so miniscule we never, ever see them or even know they are here? Just keeping records on humans and reporting back, or controlling what we do, sort of like using us as their toys.” WHAT? Flashback time, I ask him if he ever read THE MIND PARASITES by Colon Wilson. He said “only if it was a required book”, which I knew it was not. Stupid me. But it got me thinking.
Early 1970’s, my last semester of college I took what I thought was a basket weaving course called “Sci-Fi as Literature”. The professor was a known freak of the English Department who regularly chain smoked her student’ cigarettes. The syllabus was a listing of 100 novels broken down into 20 categories (5 books per), of which you were expected to read a total of 20, one per category. Every few classes she would intro a new category and you were expected to verbally participate or submit a 10 page double spaced paper. By the second week the class was basically empty, most opted out. Just a few stayed. As I needed another English credit I remained.
As the weeks went by the group became more and more enthusiastic in their discussions. Professor just sat atop her desk, nodding her head while lighting up a smoke. Toward the end of the semester she suggested we all read one more book, THE MIND PARASITES, and if the discussion was as exciting as she thought it would be, there would be NO FINAL EXAM. Done, we all bought the book. Probably, one of the best suggestions Professor Owen had.
Imagine an archeologist discovering invisible mind parasites that only “menace the brilliant people” on earth, Never to bother with the lazy, because they considered worthless in society. The only weapon against these murderous parasites is to push your mind to its limits, thereby destroying them in your brain. However, they are always present and only attack when you sense they are in your brain. If you even remotely think about them they multiple rapidly neutralizing brain cells. Both my bride and cub acknowledged that the Mind Parasites will never bother me. jazzbus@gmail.com
Today's ARTIST OF THE DAY
Taday's ARTIST OF THE DAY is the Legendary Captain Beefheart who passed away yesterday.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Artist of the Day
Today we are on a quest for THE WORST CHRISTMAS SONG EVER MADE. Give it your best shot but get back to me soon...
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
It's Christmas Time
The Jazz Bus: It’s Christmas Time
I promised myself that this piece will have nothing to do with the spiritual side of Christmas, which is probably a sacrilegious way to look at a religious holiday, but my dear friend Barbara would expect nothing less from me. Rather than exposing what I feel is a commercial approach…oh sorry I promised, I will attempt to have some fun with the musical side of the “holiday season”. Imagine that inner warmth you get when you first hear Nat King Cole’s CHRISTMAS SONG, you know the tune about Chestnuts roasting. When was the last time you had a chestnut? Years ago the song would be played right after the Thanksgiving Day Parade to officially, in song, start the season. This year I heard it played the week after Labor Day.
Alright, my favorite holiday songs. See if you remember these. Bing Crosby WHITE CHRISTMAS, probably the finest version ever made, that crooner could sing. I can almost smell his pipe burning its tobacco. SLEIGH RIDE by a group that started as dancers for Joey Dee’s Peppermint Lounge to later become famous as The Ronettes, and Ronnie still belts it out each Christmas season, LETTERMAN December 15 and live at B.B. King’s December 17th. On my iPod you will find FELIZ NAVIDAD by Jose Feliciano; JINGLE BELL ROCK- Bobby Helm not to be outdone by Brenda Lee’s ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE followed by The Peanuts Gang (Vince Guaraldi Trio) CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE, and The King himself- Elvis- deeply belting out BaBaBa BLUE CHRISTMAS. Do you remember Little Jimmy Boyd’s moment where he SAW MOMMY KISSING SANTA CLAUS? a great novelty tune but not one to be found in my collection. I do have standards.
My Pop, while a fan of Bing Crosby did not like the version of LITTLE DRUMMER BOY/PEACE ON EARTH Bing did with David Bowie. Me, I can take it or leave it. But I do love Bob Dylan’s version found on his CHRISTMAS IN THE HEART, which I still can’t figure out if it was done “tongue in cheek”. Not one to enjoy choral selections, I do find the John Lennon and The Harlem Community Choir’s collaboration HAPPY XMAS-THE WAR IS OVER to be unsurpassed as a true theme of its time. And who could leave out THE CHIPMUNK SONG,” let’s not overdue it, Alvin, ALVIN”. Bruce Springsteen recorded SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN’ TO TOWN locally live at C.W. Post many a moon ago; The bells, drums, sax, the ho ho ho’s, a true E-Street highlight.
But my all time favorite is MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE FAMILY written by Robert Earl Keen and recorded by many artists over the years. I offer just a taste of the second stanza where he introduces only some of his dysfunctional relatives and you’ll be hooked.
Brother Ken brought his kids with him
The three from his first wife Lynn
And the two identical twins from his second wife Mary Nell
Of course he brought his new wife Kay
Who talks all about AA
Chain smoking while the stereo plays Noel, Noel
The First Noel
Feliz Navidad! From The Griswold’s. jazzbus@gmail.com
I promised myself that this piece will have nothing to do with the spiritual side of Christmas, which is probably a sacrilegious way to look at a religious holiday, but my dear friend Barbara would expect nothing less from me. Rather than exposing what I feel is a commercial approach…oh sorry I promised, I will attempt to have some fun with the musical side of the “holiday season”. Imagine that inner warmth you get when you first hear Nat King Cole’s CHRISTMAS SONG, you know the tune about Chestnuts roasting. When was the last time you had a chestnut? Years ago the song would be played right after the Thanksgiving Day Parade to officially, in song, start the season. This year I heard it played the week after Labor Day.
Alright, my favorite holiday songs. See if you remember these. Bing Crosby WHITE CHRISTMAS, probably the finest version ever made, that crooner could sing. I can almost smell his pipe burning its tobacco. SLEIGH RIDE by a group that started as dancers for Joey Dee’s Peppermint Lounge to later become famous as The Ronettes, and Ronnie still belts it out each Christmas season, LETTERMAN December 15 and live at B.B. King’s December 17th. On my iPod you will find FELIZ NAVIDAD by Jose Feliciano; JINGLE BELL ROCK- Bobby Helm not to be outdone by Brenda Lee’s ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE followed by The Peanuts Gang (Vince Guaraldi Trio) CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE, and The King himself- Elvis- deeply belting out BaBaBa BLUE CHRISTMAS. Do you remember Little Jimmy Boyd’s moment where he SAW MOMMY KISSING SANTA CLAUS? a great novelty tune but not one to be found in my collection. I do have standards.
My Pop, while a fan of Bing Crosby did not like the version of LITTLE DRUMMER BOY/PEACE ON EARTH Bing did with David Bowie. Me, I can take it or leave it. But I do love Bob Dylan’s version found on his CHRISTMAS IN THE HEART, which I still can’t figure out if it was done “tongue in cheek”. Not one to enjoy choral selections, I do find the John Lennon and The Harlem Community Choir’s collaboration HAPPY XMAS-THE WAR IS OVER to be unsurpassed as a true theme of its time. And who could leave out THE CHIPMUNK SONG,” let’s not overdue it, Alvin, ALVIN”. Bruce Springsteen recorded SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN’ TO TOWN locally live at C.W. Post many a moon ago; The bells, drums, sax, the ho ho ho’s, a true E-Street highlight.
But my all time favorite is MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE FAMILY written by Robert Earl Keen and recorded by many artists over the years. I offer just a taste of the second stanza where he introduces only some of his dysfunctional relatives and you’ll be hooked.
Brother Ken brought his kids with him
The three from his first wife Lynn
And the two identical twins from his second wife Mary Nell
Of course he brought his new wife Kay
Who talks all about AA
Chain smoking while the stereo plays Noel, Noel
The First Noel
Feliz Navidad! From The Griswold’s. jazzbus@gmail.com
It's Christmas Time
The Jazz Bus: It’s Christmas Time
I promised myself that this piece will have nothing to do with the spiritual side of Christmas, which is probably a sacrilegious way to look at a religious holiday, but my dear friend Barbara would expect nothing less from me. Rather than exposing what I feel is a commercial approach…oh sorry I promised, I will attempt to have some fun with the musical side of the “holiday season”. Imagine that inner warmth you get when you first hear Nat King Cole’s CHRISTMAS SONG, you know the tune about Chestnuts roasting. When was the last time you had a chestnut? Years ago the song would be played right after the Thanksgiving Day Parade to officially, in song, start the season. This year I heard it played the week after Labor Day.
Alright, my favorite holiday songs. See if you remember these. Bing Crosby WHITE CHRISTMAS, probably the finest version ever made, that crooner could sing. I can almost smell his pipe burning its tobacco. SLEIGH RIDE by a group that started as dancers for Joey Dee’s Peppermint Lounge to later become famous as The Ronettes, and Ronnie still belts it out each Christmas season, LETTERMAN December 15 and live at B.B. King’s December 17th. On my iPod you will find FELIZ NAVIDAD by Jose Feliciano; JINGLE BELL ROCK- Bobby Helm not to be outdone by Brenda Lee’s ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE followed by The Peanuts Gang (Vince Guaraldi Trio) CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE, and The King himself- Elvis- deeply belting out BaBaBa BLUE CHRISTMAS. Do you remember Little Jimmy Boyd’s moment where he SAW MOMMY KISSING SANTA CLAUS? a great novelty tune but not one to be found in my collection. I do have standards.
My Pop, while a fan of Bing Crosby did not like the version of LITTLE DRUMMER BOY/PEACE ON EARTH Bing did with David Bowie. Me, I can take it or leave it. But I do love Bob Dylan’s version found on his CHRISTMAS IN THE HEART, which I still can’t figure out if it was done “tongue in cheek”. Not one to enjoy choral selections, I do find the John Lennon and The Harlem Community Choir’s collaboration HAPPY XMAS-THE WAR IS OVER to be unsurpassed as a true theme of its time. And who could leave out THE CHIPMUNK SONG,” let’s not overdue it, Alvin, ALVIN”. Bruce Springsteen recorded SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN’ TO TOWN locally live at C.W. Post many a moon ago; The bells, drums, sax, the ho ho ho’s, a true E-Street highlight.
But my all time favorite is MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE FAMILY written by Robert Earl Keen and recorded by many artists over the years. I offer just a taste of the second stanza where he introduces only some of his dysfunctional relatives and you’ll be hooked.
Brother Ken brought his kids with him
The three from his first wife Lynn
And the two identical twins from his second wife Mary Nell
Of course he brought his new wife Kay
Who talks all about AA
Chain smoking while the stereo plays Noel, Noel
The First Noel
Feliz Navidad! From The Griswold’s. jazzbus@gmail.com
I promised myself that this piece will have nothing to do with the spiritual side of Christmas, which is probably a sacrilegious way to look at a religious holiday, but my dear friend Barbara would expect nothing less from me. Rather than exposing what I feel is a commercial approach…oh sorry I promised, I will attempt to have some fun with the musical side of the “holiday season”. Imagine that inner warmth you get when you first hear Nat King Cole’s CHRISTMAS SONG, you know the tune about Chestnuts roasting. When was the last time you had a chestnut? Years ago the song would be played right after the Thanksgiving Day Parade to officially, in song, start the season. This year I heard it played the week after Labor Day.
Alright, my favorite holiday songs. See if you remember these. Bing Crosby WHITE CHRISTMAS, probably the finest version ever made, that crooner could sing. I can almost smell his pipe burning its tobacco. SLEIGH RIDE by a group that started as dancers for Joey Dee’s Peppermint Lounge to later become famous as The Ronettes, and Ronnie still belts it out each Christmas season, LETTERMAN December 15 and live at B.B. King’s December 17th. On my iPod you will find FELIZ NAVIDAD by Jose Feliciano; JINGLE BELL ROCK- Bobby Helm not to be outdone by Brenda Lee’s ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE followed by The Peanuts Gang (Vince Guaraldi Trio) CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE, and The King himself- Elvis- deeply belting out BaBaBa BLUE CHRISTMAS. Do you remember Little Jimmy Boyd’s moment where he SAW MOMMY KISSING SANTA CLAUS? a great novelty tune but not one to be found in my collection. I do have standards.
My Pop, while a fan of Bing Crosby did not like the version of LITTLE DRUMMER BOY/PEACE ON EARTH Bing did with David Bowie. Me, I can take it or leave it. But I do love Bob Dylan’s version found on his CHRISTMAS IN THE HEART, which I still can’t figure out if it was done “tongue in cheek”. Not one to enjoy choral selections, I do find the John Lennon and The Harlem Community Choir’s collaboration HAPPY XMAS-THE WAR IS OVER to be unsurpassed as a true theme of its time. And who could leave out THE CHIPMUNK SONG,” let’s not overdue it, Alvin, ALVIN”. Bruce Springsteen recorded SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN’ TO TOWN locally live at C.W. Post many a moon ago; The bells, drums, sax, the ho ho ho’s, a true E-Street highlight.
But my all time favorite is MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE FAMILY written by Robert Earl Keen and recorded by many artists over the years. I offer just a taste of the second stanza where he introduces only some of his dysfunctional relatives and you’ll be hooked.
Brother Ken brought his kids with him
The three from his first wife Lynn
And the two identical twins from his second wife Mary Nell
Of course he brought his new wife Kay
Who talks all about AA
Chain smoking while the stereo plays Noel, Noel
The First Noel
Feliz Navidad! From The Griswold’s. jazzbus@gmail.com
Friday, December 10, 2010
Today's ARTIST OF THE DAY : Debuts
A bit of a change in the group this week as we shied away from one particular artist, instrument or genre. Today's challenge is to NAME YOUR TOP 3(Rock)DEBUT ALBUMS. Have fun.Mine?
MUSIC FROM BIG PINK- The Band
MY AIM IS TRUE- Elvis Costello
LED ZEPPELIN-Led Zeppelin.
Oh, I am sure you disagree...so tell me.
MUSIC FROM BIG PINK- The Band
MY AIM IS TRUE- Elvis Costello
LED ZEPPELIN-Led Zeppelin.
Oh, I am sure you disagree...so tell me.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Today's ARTIST OF THE DAY John Lennon
It was thirty years ago today... On this Day of Remembrance...JOHN LENNON
Just Like Starting Over
Imagine
Happy X-mas, The War Is Over
Just Like Starting Over
Imagine
Happy X-mas, The War Is Over
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Taking The Dog To The Vet
The Jazz Bus: Taking the Dog to the Vet
How much? That is more than I paid for the delivery and hospital care for my first child. Why do we do this? We become so attached to our pets. Mine is not even a good watchdog. She will bark when you approach the front door but only as a warning that she might lick you to death or break your ankle from the viciousness of her tail wagging against your leg. Holding packages always makes entering the house an adventure as she assumes everything is a gift for her. She’ll wake you up early when she is ready to start her day and let you know immediately when the pangs of hunger hit. Try changing her food to a cheaper brand and she won’t come when called.
Almost 8 years old she has most recently developed a tumor on her underside, a non-threatening “pendulous mass” as the vet calls it. My pup weights just shy of 100 pounds and the hanging mass is quite visible due to its immense size. Having shown no severe swings in her weight the vet said surgery should be routine and non-eventful. So we are getting it done.
We dropped her off at 9 am as required, with no food or water from 10 the previous evening. My dog, when she takes care of her morning ritual, expects some treats. Her look of disappointment today almost broke my heart. Then out came her special red chain, a symbol for a ride in the car. Running around like Brandon Jacobs she got in her seat, and off we headed, to surgery.
The bride and I patiently waited until 3pm to call. Two rings, three rings, WHAT IS WRONG? Finally, ah, only 3 rings, the technician said surgery was successful and we could pick her up at 4:30. Only a short drive and no cars in the lot we were greeted by a receptionist who knew who we were. Funny how they refer to you as a pet’s parents ,but yes we were, proudly I might add. Dr. Glen Roiland, Amityville Animal Hospital’s very fine Veterinarian, greeted us, explained the extent of the surgery and the concern he had during it and for any aftercare while assuring us everything would be alright. He actually kissed my dog when he turned her over to us. He even helped me in the pouring rain get her big drugged out body in the car, which at 100 pounds is no easy task. But it wasn’t over, for me.
Dinner was hand fed by my bride, the dog’s “mother”. Medicine administered the same way. Then we blocked off the kitchen with gates to, added a few throw rugs so she could walk comfortably and safely, and placed her bed near the heater. As she was still bleeding a bit we stayed with her throughout the evening, gathering around the kitchen table watching a small screen TV. Now, the big decision, who was going to sleep by her as she could not make it up the stairs to the second floor where she traditionally snores away the night. Daddy’s turn.
One long night on the couch not far from her, listening to her moan and cry until 4 am, when after a short walk in the rain, she returned to her bed and nodded off. Wish I could have. Instead I wrote this piece. Thank goodness it’s over and she’s okay.jazzbus@gmail.com
How much? That is more than I paid for the delivery and hospital care for my first child. Why do we do this? We become so attached to our pets. Mine is not even a good watchdog. She will bark when you approach the front door but only as a warning that she might lick you to death or break your ankle from the viciousness of her tail wagging against your leg. Holding packages always makes entering the house an adventure as she assumes everything is a gift for her. She’ll wake you up early when she is ready to start her day and let you know immediately when the pangs of hunger hit. Try changing her food to a cheaper brand and she won’t come when called.
Almost 8 years old she has most recently developed a tumor on her underside, a non-threatening “pendulous mass” as the vet calls it. My pup weights just shy of 100 pounds and the hanging mass is quite visible due to its immense size. Having shown no severe swings in her weight the vet said surgery should be routine and non-eventful. So we are getting it done.
We dropped her off at 9 am as required, with no food or water from 10 the previous evening. My dog, when she takes care of her morning ritual, expects some treats. Her look of disappointment today almost broke my heart. Then out came her special red chain, a symbol for a ride in the car. Running around like Brandon Jacobs she got in her seat, and off we headed, to surgery.
The bride and I patiently waited until 3pm to call. Two rings, three rings, WHAT IS WRONG? Finally, ah, only 3 rings, the technician said surgery was successful and we could pick her up at 4:30. Only a short drive and no cars in the lot we were greeted by a receptionist who knew who we were. Funny how they refer to you as a pet’s parents ,but yes we were, proudly I might add. Dr. Glen Roiland, Amityville Animal Hospital’s very fine Veterinarian, greeted us, explained the extent of the surgery and the concern he had during it and for any aftercare while assuring us everything would be alright. He actually kissed my dog when he turned her over to us. He even helped me in the pouring rain get her big drugged out body in the car, which at 100 pounds is no easy task. But it wasn’t over, for me.
Dinner was hand fed by my bride, the dog’s “mother”. Medicine administered the same way. Then we blocked off the kitchen with gates to, added a few throw rugs so she could walk comfortably and safely, and placed her bed near the heater. As she was still bleeding a bit we stayed with her throughout the evening, gathering around the kitchen table watching a small screen TV. Now, the big decision, who was going to sleep by her as she could not make it up the stairs to the second floor where she traditionally snores away the night. Daddy’s turn.
One long night on the couch not far from her, listening to her moan and cry until 4 am, when after a short walk in the rain, she returned to her bed and nodded off. Wish I could have. Instead I wrote this piece. Thank goodness it’s over and she’s okay.jazzbus@gmail.com
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Artist of the Day
I belong to a small circle of music nuts who when called upon are to name their 3 favorite tunes by an artist as suggested by one of the members of the group. This round robin started a few weeks ago and has developed into a nice friendly routine, many times with guys remembering bits of trivia. More than once a song has been attached to the e-mail responses, as a gentle way to sway you.British Invasion bands, American rock and roll solo artists as well as groups have been thrown at you. Rascals, Beach Boys, Dion, Ricky Nelson,The Zombies,songs with sitars, cowbell songs, you get the idea.
Today's is: THE PLATTERS and my choices are: ONLY YOU(And you alone),The GREAT PRETENDER, and THE MAGIC TOUCH. Any other suggestions?
Today's is: THE PLATTERS and my choices are: ONLY YOU(And you alone),The GREAT PRETENDER, and THE MAGIC TOUCH. Any other suggestions?
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Another One For Woody (Various Artists) - 11/22/10 Roseland Ballroom, New York, NY
| Another One For Woody (Various Artists) 11/22/10 Roseland Ballroom, New York, NY Click below to preview tracks from this show DOWNLOAD THIS SHOW |
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