The Lords of Salem is a film by Rob Zombie. If you are still reading after that sentence, congratulations. You are a strange and twisted person like me. Thank you for that.
I seem to be in the minority when it comes to this film. Most people seem to have hated Lords and I can't seem to figure out why. Maybe it's because it's not as demented as House of 1000 Corpses or doesn't contain the disturbing violence of The Devil's Rejects. Or maybe it's because Rob Zombie actually tries to tell a good story here. But of course it could also be people just have no taste in horror movies these days. The latter statement is where I lean considering the popularity of crap like the Paranormal Activity franchise.
The Lords of Salem focuses primarily on Heidi, (Heidi is played by Sherri Moon Zombie, who does have a couple scenes without clothes. That never gets old for me.) who is 1/3 of the late-night radio show Big H. One night she is delivered a mysterious package containing a vinyl record. The music has a damaging affect on Heidi but it becomes a huge hit with the listeners. Heidi begins a descent into nightmares and visions which have her co-hosts beyond concerned. But the show must go on. After the music is well received, the trio receives another package containing posters and tickets to a one-night only "performance" by the Lords.
The Salem referenced in the title is of course Salem, Massachusetts. Now, Salem is a town with a dark past. You know, all that witch trial stuff. (On a side note, the witch trials were more likely a bunch of cheating husbands covering their tracks rather than actual witches.) The "Lords of Salem" were among those burned at the stake during those trials and Heidi appears to be the link between the Lords and vengeance. Along the way, a collection of unique characters offer varying forms of assistance to Heidi: her overly attentive landlord, a co-host who is in love with her and a Salem scholar. As it turns out, Heidi's dog senses the truth right from the start but no one ever listens to the dog.
The Lords of Salem benefits from Zombie's unique approach to directing. As expected, the film is dark. But Rob is also able to bring a malevolent tone without scene after scene of gratuitous violence. This film also comes with the trademark trippy cut-scenes for which Rob is known. The music also plays a huge role in adding to the dreary tone. And as I mentioned earlier, Rob actually tries to tell a good story with this film, something which was less a concern in his earlier films.
The Lords of Salem is not Zombie's best effort, House of 1000 Corpses is still his overall best film. But Lords is compelling and worth a look. It's not "scary" but it is creepy. The cast includes Zombie favorites Ken Foree and Sid Haig as well as Hollywood long-timers Dee Wallace, Meg Foster and Bruce Davison.
Thank you all for reading the blog. As always, if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Sunday, September 22, 2013
My NHL Keeper League Draft Results
I took over the last place team in an NHL Keeper League. My keeper picks were Henrik Sedin, Jimmy Howard and Max Pacioretty. Here are my draft picks (in order) in a snake-format draft. I had the first overall pick.
Phil Kessel
Sergei Bobrovsky
Keith Yandle
Shea Weber
Pascal Dupuis
Brad Richards
Dion Phaneuf
Andrew Ladd
Ondrej Pavelec
Brad Marchand
Johan Franzen
Patrick Elias
Brent Seabrook
Alex Goligoski
Beau Bennett
Phil Kessel
Sergei Bobrovsky
Keith Yandle
Shea Weber
Pascal Dupuis
Brad Richards
Dion Phaneuf
Andrew Ladd
Ondrej Pavelec
Brad Marchand
Johan Franzen
Patrick Elias
Brent Seabrook
Alex Goligoski
Beau Bennett
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Party on Dude!
This entry will be much like Andrew W.K.'s music, kind of all over the place. Just a heads-up.
Andrew W.K.'s I Get Wet is one of my all-time guilty pleasures. His music is goofy and his lyrics dumb, but he is really fun to listen to. It's kind of like slap-stick comedy meets a frat party and evolves into a b-action movie. I mean seriously, he hit himself in the face with a brick for the album cover and sings songs like "Party Till You Puke", "Take It Off" and "Ready to Die" (one of my favorite tracks). He plays piano and keyboards with pseudo-hard rock band backing him up. I Get Wet rocked its way to number one on Billboard's Heatseekers chart and earned him a spot on the Ozzfest second stage (I got to see AWK play live that summer). He has a charismatic and goofy stage presence which definitely comes out in his music.
"Party Till You Puke" isn't the greatest track on the album, but the title says it all. It's obnoxious, but for cranking up the volume when you are driving or home alone, it's perfect.
I mentioned before "Ready to Die" is one of my favorite tracks. This is one to really jam-out to and is a must have for any long road trip playlist. The same is true for "I Love NYC". Even if you aren't going to NYC, after 9/11, this song should have a place on the iPod of all patriotic Americans.
AWK did get his share of big time mainstream exposure. His song "Party Hard" was featured on Madden 2003 and Girls Gone Wild The Music Vol. 1. The soundtrack for Freaky Friday included "She is Beautiful". His songs have also appeared in commercials for Target, Coors and Game Cube.
Now granted, AWK isn't something I can listen to all the time, which I guess is why I classify him as a guilty pleasure. But when I want to turn up the volume and act like an idiot, I Get Wet is one of the albums I turn to for inspiration.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
If you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
Andrew W.K.'s I Get Wet is one of my all-time guilty pleasures. His music is goofy and his lyrics dumb, but he is really fun to listen to. It's kind of like slap-stick comedy meets a frat party and evolves into a b-action movie. I mean seriously, he hit himself in the face with a brick for the album cover and sings songs like "Party Till You Puke", "Take It Off" and "Ready to Die" (one of my favorite tracks). He plays piano and keyboards with pseudo-hard rock band backing him up. I Get Wet rocked its way to number one on Billboard's Heatseekers chart and earned him a spot on the Ozzfest second stage (I got to see AWK play live that summer). He has a charismatic and goofy stage presence which definitely comes out in his music.
"Party Till You Puke" isn't the greatest track on the album, but the title says it all. It's obnoxious, but for cranking up the volume when you are driving or home alone, it's perfect.
I mentioned before "Ready to Die" is one of my favorite tracks. This is one to really jam-out to and is a must have for any long road trip playlist. The same is true for "I Love NYC". Even if you aren't going to NYC, after 9/11, this song should have a place on the iPod of all patriotic Americans.
AWK did get his share of big time mainstream exposure. His song "Party Hard" was featured on Madden 2003 and Girls Gone Wild The Music Vol. 1. The soundtrack for Freaky Friday included "She is Beautiful". His songs have also appeared in commercials for Target, Coors and Game Cube.
Now granted, AWK isn't something I can listen to all the time, which I guess is why I classify him as a guilty pleasure. But when I want to turn up the volume and act like an idiot, I Get Wet is one of the albums I turn to for inspiration.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
If you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
2013 NFL Preview
Alright football fans, here is my 2013 preview for the upcoming season! Grab those penalty flags because I am sure some of you will be throwing them as you read this.
AFC EAST
New England -- clearly the best team in the division but there is not really any competition for them. The Dolphins may one day reclaim this division but not as long as a man named Brady is still playing.
Miami -- they get this spot by default. The Jets stink and the Bills have a rookie QB.
Buffalo -- Because they are only slightly better than the Jets.
New York -- The Jets are likely the train wreck of the year, although Oakland could also compete for that title as well. At least we'll have Rex Ryan's press conferences.
AFC NORTH
Cincinnati -- Yes, Who Dey! It's the Bengals year to win the division even if it may only take a 10-6 record to do it.
Baltimore -- They won the Super Bowl then lost a lot of veterans to retirement and free agency. They still have the offense to win some games, though.
Pittsburgh -- Another non-playoff year for Pittsburgh with questions at RB and aging safeties.
Cleveland -- If they had a legitimate option at QB, they'd bump Pittsburgh to last in the division.
AFC SOUTH
Houston -- It'll be a close race with the Colts, but the Texans veteran leadership gives them the edge, especially with Ed Reed in that defense.
Indianapolis -- Andrew Luck had a fantastic rookie year, taking Indy to the playoffs. He'll have a chance to do it again, especially if Bradshaw stays healthy.
Tennessee -- The Titans are on their way back to being competitive. They are my sleeper team in the AFC and could surprise some teams who take them lightly.
Jacksonville -- Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne... any questions?
AFC WEST
Denver -- The talent level isn't even close here. Peyton still got it. The Chiefs made steps, but they aren't there yet.
Kansas City -- The Chiefs may be the most improved team in the NFL. Alex Smith is a competent QB and if Jamaal Charles is healthy, they should challenge for a wild card spot.
San Diego -- The Chargers only get placed higher than the Raiders because they have a veteran quarterback.
Oakland -- This team could also be a train wreck with the Terrelle Pryor era seemingly ready to begin. Will he be Michael Vick or Akili Smith?
NFC EAST
New York -- The Giants will barely win this division. It may come down to week 17 against Washington.
Washington -- RG3 is a fun player to watch and he'll be back in playoffs again this year.
Dallas -- The Cowboys have lots of talent, but unfortunately, other teams have more. And then there's Romo who just can't get over that hump. Despite all that, they are my NFC sleeper team and could switch spaces with either of the teams above.
Philadelphia -- It's a transition year for them with a rookie NFL coach. If Vick can still play a fast game, maybe they surprise some people.
NFC NORTH
Green Bay -- Like New England, they are clearly the best team. This division won't even be close.
Detroit -- The Lions will rebound and be a contender for a wild card playoff spot. A wild card game is not out of the question if the pieces fall right.
Chicago -- Sometime teams just have one of those years. It'll be the Bears in 2013.
Minnesota -- You gotta love AP. But the question is, how long until we see Matt Cassell?
NFC SOUTH
New Orleans -- Atlanta will give them a run for the division. But Dew Brees and the weapons he has gets it done again.
Atlanta -- Matty Ice is paid among the best, now it is time for him to step up and get things done in the playoffs.
Carolina -- Cam Newton is a beast. And the Panthers are building a team which will compete sooner rather than later.
Tampa Bay -- I like the Buccaneers. However, they just don't have what's needed to compete with the rest of the division.
NFC WEST
Seattle -- Russell Wilson will only get better and that defense is still frightening. It'll be close but they edge San Fran.
San Francisco -- Colin Kaepernick is explosive. Vernon Davis is a beast. They will be right in it, fighting all the way with Seattle.
St. Louis -- This is the year Sam Bradford finally starts to show what he can do. The Rams are adding weapons for him. Give them a year or two.
Arizona -- The last dance for Carson Palmer. He'll be able to get Larry Fitzgerald the ball. But what else will they be able to do. Oh, they do have a good defense. Just not good enough to keep the Cards from a dismal season.
Thanks for reading. Have fun cheering for your favorite team this season. And remember, if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
AFC EAST
New England -- clearly the best team in the division but there is not really any competition for them. The Dolphins may one day reclaim this division but not as long as a man named Brady is still playing.
Miami -- they get this spot by default. The Jets stink and the Bills have a rookie QB.
Buffalo -- Because they are only slightly better than the Jets.
New York -- The Jets are likely the train wreck of the year, although Oakland could also compete for that title as well. At least we'll have Rex Ryan's press conferences.
AFC NORTH
Cincinnati -- Yes, Who Dey! It's the Bengals year to win the division even if it may only take a 10-6 record to do it.
Baltimore -- They won the Super Bowl then lost a lot of veterans to retirement and free agency. They still have the offense to win some games, though.
Pittsburgh -- Another non-playoff year for Pittsburgh with questions at RB and aging safeties.
Cleveland -- If they had a legitimate option at QB, they'd bump Pittsburgh to last in the division.
AFC SOUTH
Houston -- It'll be a close race with the Colts, but the Texans veteran leadership gives them the edge, especially with Ed Reed in that defense.
Indianapolis -- Andrew Luck had a fantastic rookie year, taking Indy to the playoffs. He'll have a chance to do it again, especially if Bradshaw stays healthy.
Tennessee -- The Titans are on their way back to being competitive. They are my sleeper team in the AFC and could surprise some teams who take them lightly.
Jacksonville -- Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne... any questions?
AFC WEST
Denver -- The talent level isn't even close here. Peyton still got it. The Chiefs made steps, but they aren't there yet.
Kansas City -- The Chiefs may be the most improved team in the NFL. Alex Smith is a competent QB and if Jamaal Charles is healthy, they should challenge for a wild card spot.
San Diego -- The Chargers only get placed higher than the Raiders because they have a veteran quarterback.
Oakland -- This team could also be a train wreck with the Terrelle Pryor era seemingly ready to begin. Will he be Michael Vick or Akili Smith?
NFC EAST
New York -- The Giants will barely win this division. It may come down to week 17 against Washington.
Washington -- RG3 is a fun player to watch and he'll be back in playoffs again this year.
Dallas -- The Cowboys have lots of talent, but unfortunately, other teams have more. And then there's Romo who just can't get over that hump. Despite all that, they are my NFC sleeper team and could switch spaces with either of the teams above.
Philadelphia -- It's a transition year for them with a rookie NFL coach. If Vick can still play a fast game, maybe they surprise some people.
NFC NORTH
Green Bay -- Like New England, they are clearly the best team. This division won't even be close.
Detroit -- The Lions will rebound and be a contender for a wild card playoff spot. A wild card game is not out of the question if the pieces fall right.
Chicago -- Sometime teams just have one of those years. It'll be the Bears in 2013.
Minnesota -- You gotta love AP. But the question is, how long until we see Matt Cassell?
NFC SOUTH
New Orleans -- Atlanta will give them a run for the division. But Dew Brees and the weapons he has gets it done again.
Atlanta -- Matty Ice is paid among the best, now it is time for him to step up and get things done in the playoffs.
Carolina -- Cam Newton is a beast. And the Panthers are building a team which will compete sooner rather than later.
Tampa Bay -- I like the Buccaneers. However, they just don't have what's needed to compete with the rest of the division.
NFC WEST
Seattle -- Russell Wilson will only get better and that defense is still frightening. It'll be close but they edge San Fran.
San Francisco -- Colin Kaepernick is explosive. Vernon Davis is a beast. They will be right in it, fighting all the way with Seattle.
St. Louis -- This is the year Sam Bradford finally starts to show what he can do. The Rams are adding weapons for him. Give them a year or two.
Arizona -- The last dance for Carson Palmer. He'll be able to get Larry Fitzgerald the ball. But what else will they be able to do. Oh, they do have a good defense. Just not good enough to keep the Cards from a dismal season.
Thanks for reading. Have fun cheering for your favorite team this season. And remember, if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Inside the Craft, Part One
A few months ago, when I decided to change the direction of this blog and also put more emphasis on it as a whole, I stated I would occasionally present to you entries about my life. This is the first of such entries.
I'm sure I'm not alone in going to a job five days a week that isn't anything close to what I'd prefer to be doing. I have no doubt many of you out there do the same thing. I have a job that provides consistent hours, health insurance and a 401K. Many people right now would trade body part or prized possessions to have such a job. I understand that and I'm not ungrateful for the job I do have. The thing is, I hate it. It's repetitive and boring and so not me. Yes, it's better than sweating in a 100+ degree kitchen all day. I'm sitting in an office all day instead. Now, I'm not completely against ever working in a restaurant again. But if I do, it'll be because I own the place. I'm not going to be the kitchen bitch ever again.
What would I do instead of working in an office, you ask? Well I don't think the porn career is ever going to happen, so I can cross that off the list. I can't make a living writing this blog. However, if any of you know someone who would pay me to write this shit, please let me know. I need a job where I can use my creativity, even if it just in short bursts throughout the day. I don't have that right now and it's killing me. Not killing me physically, but it's killing me mentally and emotionally and that might be worse. If I could go to a new job this week, it would be to work for Revolver. (For those of you unfamiliar with Revolver, it's a hard rock/heavy metal magazine.) That's a job I would love. I'd be channeling my creativity and dealing with content in which I was truly interested. I'm not interested in the least amount with what I do five days a week right now. Again, I'm sure many of you out there feel the same way about your jobs. I know we all have bills to pay and food to buy so we do what we must. It would be better though if I didn't thoroughly hate it.
Me not liking my job has nothing to do with the company. The company is great and my co-workers are great. The employees do a lot of charity work, most notably with Relay for Life. They hold fund raisers for employees who have a death in the family or are victim of a natural disaster. The company offers incentives to employees who wish to quit smoking or lose weight as well as encouraging blood donation. So I can say nothing negative about the company. It's just not a place for someone with a raging imagination. So hopefully you all can see my dilemma. I appreciate the perks and benefits which come with this job. But there is this part of me that needs more. There is this voice inside me screaming to be unleashed upon the world. I have this creative spirit suffering each day it's oppressed and silenced as I sit at a desk processing sample product orders for a promotional products company. But it's what pays the bills and it's the life I live. At least I can wear my iPod while I'm working. It's probably the only thing keeping me sane.
This was part one of a look inside the Craft. I'm not sure how often I'll post entries like this, but they will get more personal moving forward. Thank you all for reading and as you should know by now, if you cannot be the poet, be the poem.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
I'm sure I'm not alone in going to a job five days a week that isn't anything close to what I'd prefer to be doing. I have no doubt many of you out there do the same thing. I have a job that provides consistent hours, health insurance and a 401K. Many people right now would trade body part or prized possessions to have such a job. I understand that and I'm not ungrateful for the job I do have. The thing is, I hate it. It's repetitive and boring and so not me. Yes, it's better than sweating in a 100+ degree kitchen all day. I'm sitting in an office all day instead. Now, I'm not completely against ever working in a restaurant again. But if I do, it'll be because I own the place. I'm not going to be the kitchen bitch ever again.
What would I do instead of working in an office, you ask? Well I don't think the porn career is ever going to happen, so I can cross that off the list. I can't make a living writing this blog. However, if any of you know someone who would pay me to write this shit, please let me know. I need a job where I can use my creativity, even if it just in short bursts throughout the day. I don't have that right now and it's killing me. Not killing me physically, but it's killing me mentally and emotionally and that might be worse. If I could go to a new job this week, it would be to work for Revolver. (For those of you unfamiliar with Revolver, it's a hard rock/heavy metal magazine.) That's a job I would love. I'd be channeling my creativity and dealing with content in which I was truly interested. I'm not interested in the least amount with what I do five days a week right now. Again, I'm sure many of you out there feel the same way about your jobs. I know we all have bills to pay and food to buy so we do what we must. It would be better though if I didn't thoroughly hate it.
Me not liking my job has nothing to do with the company. The company is great and my co-workers are great. The employees do a lot of charity work, most notably with Relay for Life. They hold fund raisers for employees who have a death in the family or are victim of a natural disaster. The company offers incentives to employees who wish to quit smoking or lose weight as well as encouraging blood donation. So I can say nothing negative about the company. It's just not a place for someone with a raging imagination. So hopefully you all can see my dilemma. I appreciate the perks and benefits which come with this job. But there is this part of me that needs more. There is this voice inside me screaming to be unleashed upon the world. I have this creative spirit suffering each day it's oppressed and silenced as I sit at a desk processing sample product orders for a promotional products company. But it's what pays the bills and it's the life I live. At least I can wear my iPod while I'm working. It's probably the only thing keeping me sane.
This was part one of a look inside the Craft. I'm not sure how often I'll post entries like this, but they will get more personal moving forward. Thank you all for reading and as you should know by now, if you cannot be the poet, be the poem.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
Friday, August 30, 2013
An Ugly Entry
I love Ugly Kid Joe. I've loved them since their 1991 debut song, the funny and rude breakup song, "Everything About You". Although they both peaked and faded quickly, UKJ if a fun band to listen to and should be represented on any metal fan's iPod.
Ugly Kid Joe is a band that doesn't always take itself seriously. Their name is a parody of glam band Pretty Boy Floyd and they instill humor frequently into their music (as well as tongue firmly in cheek). The humor is perfectly clear with the titles of their first three albums, all digs at hip-hop: As Ugly As They Wanna Be, America's Least Wanted and my personal favorite of their album titles, Menace to Sobriety. Their fourth and fifth albums continued the parody titles, but this time towards rock music with Motel California and Stairway to Hell.
UKJ's mega hit "Everything About You", is as I mentioned above, funny and rude. Vocalist Whitfield Crane belts his way through a tirade of all the things he hates including his ex-girlfriend. During a rant in the middle of the song, Crane confesses to sleeping with his ex's sister ("I put her on the bed and she didn't say 'maybe'"), who ironically was mentioned as one of the things he hates because he thinks "sex is overrated too". I did say it was rude, didn't I? The video features blow-up sex dolls as characters. SO yes, they are funny in a juvenile way.
The band also did a few cover songs, most notably Harry Chapin's "Cat's in the Cradle". Their version of "Cradle" made the song darker, but failed to bring the emotion of Chapin's tear-jerking original. The band also covered two Black Sabbath songs, "Sweet Leaf" and "N.I.B.". Neither is really worth discussing.
Vocalist Whitfield Crane is what I like to call a jam-metal singer. He's like a badly concocted blend of Axl Rose and Tom Keifer. You all can decide for yourself if that is an insult or not. He is great for a band which doesn't always take itself seriously and is just out there to have fun. He also kind of reminds me of former WWE wrestler Edge, circa the pretty boy days with Christian.
Did I say fun? Yes I did. So check out the songs "Whiplash Liquor" and "Neighbor".
If you want some demented fun, also check out "Madman", a song about a serial killer running loose in Disneyland. Can you have any more fun than that?
Remember when I mentioned the tongue planted firmly in cheek? Turn up the volume and play "Goddamn Devil" which features special guest Rob Halford. Then do the same thing with "God". Although the latter doesn't have Rob Halford.
The PMRC and some crybaby record chains forced a "clean" album cover for the band's America's Least Wanted album. The original cover featured the Statue of Liberty flipping the middle finger and holding a porn magazine. An alternate cover featuring the band's mascot in chains was also used.
Here's a piece of Ugly Kid Joe: their debut E.P, As Ugly As They Wanna Be went platinum and became the highest selling debut E.P. of all time.
Another piece of trivia: former UKJ drummer Shannon Larkin became the drummer for Godsmack.
I'm sure those of you who grew up with metal, have heard Ugly Kid Joe and have their music on your iPod. If you don't have any of UKJ's music, what the hell is wrong with you? Most of their CD's can be found in any bargain bin of your local used CD/DVD store so go out there and pick up their music. If you have to steal your wannabe rocker cousin's Nickelback CD's to trade in towards the UKJ discs, do it. You'll be doing your cousin a favor.
Thank you all again for playing along and taking time to read my blog. Have a great weekend and to my American readers, have a great holiday weekend and please do not drink and drive. Catch you next time and if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
Ugly Kid Joe is a band that doesn't always take itself seriously. Their name is a parody of glam band Pretty Boy Floyd and they instill humor frequently into their music (as well as tongue firmly in cheek). The humor is perfectly clear with the titles of their first three albums, all digs at hip-hop: As Ugly As They Wanna Be, America's Least Wanted and my personal favorite of their album titles, Menace to Sobriety. Their fourth and fifth albums continued the parody titles, but this time towards rock music with Motel California and Stairway to Hell.
UKJ's mega hit "Everything About You", is as I mentioned above, funny and rude. Vocalist Whitfield Crane belts his way through a tirade of all the things he hates including his ex-girlfriend. During a rant in the middle of the song, Crane confesses to sleeping with his ex's sister ("I put her on the bed and she didn't say 'maybe'"), who ironically was mentioned as one of the things he hates because he thinks "sex is overrated too". I did say it was rude, didn't I? The video features blow-up sex dolls as characters. SO yes, they are funny in a juvenile way.
The band also did a few cover songs, most notably Harry Chapin's "Cat's in the Cradle". Their version of "Cradle" made the song darker, but failed to bring the emotion of Chapin's tear-jerking original. The band also covered two Black Sabbath songs, "Sweet Leaf" and "N.I.B.". Neither is really worth discussing.
Vocalist Whitfield Crane is what I like to call a jam-metal singer. He's like a badly concocted blend of Axl Rose and Tom Keifer. You all can decide for yourself if that is an insult or not. He is great for a band which doesn't always take itself seriously and is just out there to have fun. He also kind of reminds me of former WWE wrestler Edge, circa the pretty boy days with Christian.
Did I say fun? Yes I did. So check out the songs "Whiplash Liquor" and "Neighbor".
If you want some demented fun, also check out "Madman", a song about a serial killer running loose in Disneyland. Can you have any more fun than that?
Remember when I mentioned the tongue planted firmly in cheek? Turn up the volume and play "Goddamn Devil" which features special guest Rob Halford. Then do the same thing with "God". Although the latter doesn't have Rob Halford.
The PMRC and some crybaby record chains forced a "clean" album cover for the band's America's Least Wanted album. The original cover featured the Statue of Liberty flipping the middle finger and holding a porn magazine. An alternate cover featuring the band's mascot in chains was also used.
Here's a piece of Ugly Kid Joe: their debut E.P, As Ugly As They Wanna Be went platinum and became the highest selling debut E.P. of all time.
Another piece of trivia: former UKJ drummer Shannon Larkin became the drummer for Godsmack.
I'm sure those of you who grew up with metal, have heard Ugly Kid Joe and have their music on your iPod. If you don't have any of UKJ's music, what the hell is wrong with you? Most of their CD's can be found in any bargain bin of your local used CD/DVD store so go out there and pick up their music. If you have to steal your wannabe rocker cousin's Nickelback CD's to trade in towards the UKJ discs, do it. You'll be doing your cousin a favor.
Thank you all again for playing along and taking time to read my blog. Have a great weekend and to my American readers, have a great holiday weekend and please do not drink and drive. Catch you next time and if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Thursday, August 22, 2013
All Things Considered...
With the changes in my life over the past year and the changes to be coming in the next few months or so, I am not looking for a serious, committed relationship right now. What I want is a friend with benefits. That's not complicated. It's great for those involved. I'm not making this post into a personal ad or anything, it's just something I needed to get out there because not many people really know that is for what I am looking. Now it's here and people that know me can find it if they look hard enough.
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Musical Guilty Pleasures: Cowboy Troy
First off, let me say I don't like using the term "guilty pleasure" for Cowboy Troy. I genuinely like his music. What I am hoping is to convince those of you who have not heard his music to give it a chance and maybe add some of his tunes to your iPod. So read on as I tell you a little bit about the creator of hick-hop, Muzik Mafia member and the master of Tae Kwon Flo and Tongue-Fu.
Let me start with "I Play Chicken with the Train". This song has jamming country-rock music led by hip-hop style vocals. Wild and crazy country duo Big & Rich, who have played big roles in Troy's career, join in on the fun with this song and it is one to play loudly. By far, the line "I'm big and I'm black, clickity-clack, and I'll make the train jump the track" is the highlight of the song. CBT's song "Hick Chick" is a rowdy and fun song expressing a love of the America's good ol' girls. The album version of "Hick Chick" featured 2007 Nashville Star winner Angela Hacker. An even bigger guest joins Troy on the track "Buffalo Stampede" and it is an unexpected one, to say the least. M. Shadows, vocalist for heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold, provides accompanying vocals to Troy's hip-hop lyrics.
Cowboy Troy isn't all fun and partying though. He tackles some serious issues as well. The track "Man with the Microphone" addresses everything from world hunger to child abuse to the perpetual violence in the Middle East. These are all issues so many ignore day in and day out. Troy is not a multi-platinum artist, but if he can bring the attention of even a handful of people to these issues, it's a victory. Big & Rich join CBT on the track "Wrap Around the World" which simply asks us all to put our differences aside and be nice to each other. Troy even busts out his Mandarin Chinese for "Wrap Around the World" which is beyond impressive. And then there is the tear-jerking duet with Sarah Buxton, "If You Don't Want to Love Me". I can't really relate to falling out of love or not feeling loved, but I know there are many out there who can.
Cowboy Troy also uses his personal experiences in some of his songs. "How Can You Hate Me?" highlights those songs. First off it is an in-your-face assault on those who wanted Troy to fail from day one. It also brings to light the racism that still exists in America as Troy raps about the death threats he received from the less tolerant and enlightened folks in America. But none of this ever deterred Troy. Instead it motivated him. As he says in this song, "Wanna put out the fire? Better bring more water!"
Troy discusses the trials and tribulations he faced and overcame during his time in the music industry on "Paranoid Like Me ('Tis the Season of Discontent)". Basically he lets us know the music industry is shady and while people are smiling and shaking your hand, they are holding a knife behind their back with the other hand. So basically you have to have the Stone Cold Steve Austin attitude: don't trust anyone.
Cowboy Troy also co-hosted the fifth season of Nashville Star, performed on the finale of the 14th season of Dancing with the Stars and performed at the 2008 Republican National Convention.
Cowboy Troy's music is both fun and serious and a great yawl-ternative to everything else. He brought together two styles of music which destined to stay apart forever. I ask you all to check out some of his songs with an open mind. You may just find yourself adding him to your iPod and tapping your feet along with the beat.
Thanks once again my loyal readers for giving me a few minutes of your time. I truly appreciate it. As always, if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
Let me start with "I Play Chicken with the Train". This song has jamming country-rock music led by hip-hop style vocals. Wild and crazy country duo Big & Rich, who have played big roles in Troy's career, join in on the fun with this song and it is one to play loudly. By far, the line "I'm big and I'm black, clickity-clack, and I'll make the train jump the track" is the highlight of the song. CBT's song "Hick Chick" is a rowdy and fun song expressing a love of the America's good ol' girls. The album version of "Hick Chick" featured 2007 Nashville Star winner Angela Hacker. An even bigger guest joins Troy on the track "Buffalo Stampede" and it is an unexpected one, to say the least. M. Shadows, vocalist for heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold, provides accompanying vocals to Troy's hip-hop lyrics.
Cowboy Troy isn't all fun and partying though. He tackles some serious issues as well. The track "Man with the Microphone" addresses everything from world hunger to child abuse to the perpetual violence in the Middle East. These are all issues so many ignore day in and day out. Troy is not a multi-platinum artist, but if he can bring the attention of even a handful of people to these issues, it's a victory. Big & Rich join CBT on the track "Wrap Around the World" which simply asks us all to put our differences aside and be nice to each other. Troy even busts out his Mandarin Chinese for "Wrap Around the World" which is beyond impressive. And then there is the tear-jerking duet with Sarah Buxton, "If You Don't Want to Love Me". I can't really relate to falling out of love or not feeling loved, but I know there are many out there who can.
Cowboy Troy also uses his personal experiences in some of his songs. "How Can You Hate Me?" highlights those songs. First off it is an in-your-face assault on those who wanted Troy to fail from day one. It also brings to light the racism that still exists in America as Troy raps about the death threats he received from the less tolerant and enlightened folks in America. But none of this ever deterred Troy. Instead it motivated him. As he says in this song, "Wanna put out the fire? Better bring more water!"
Troy discusses the trials and tribulations he faced and overcame during his time in the music industry on "Paranoid Like Me ('Tis the Season of Discontent)". Basically he lets us know the music industry is shady and while people are smiling and shaking your hand, they are holding a knife behind their back with the other hand. So basically you have to have the Stone Cold Steve Austin attitude: don't trust anyone.
Cowboy Troy also co-hosted the fifth season of Nashville Star, performed on the finale of the 14th season of Dancing with the Stars and performed at the 2008 Republican National Convention.
Cowboy Troy's music is both fun and serious and a great yawl-ternative to everything else. He brought together two styles of music which destined to stay apart forever. I ask you all to check out some of his songs with an open mind. You may just find yourself adding him to your iPod and tapping your feet along with the beat.
Thanks once again my loyal readers for giving me a few minutes of your time. I truly appreciate it. As always, if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
"Like" my page: www.facebook.com/JTLovecraft
Follow me on Twitter: @JTLovecraft
Saturday, August 17, 2013
My Fantasy Football Draft
Here is my draft results for the first year fantasy football keeper league I joined on Yahoo. I had the second overall pick in a snake style (alternating order) draft. The league I am in includes both offensive and defensive players. Yahoo ranked me as choosing the best sleepers (Hilton, Ballard and Leshoure). Let me know what you think.
1. Adrian Peterson
2. Russell Wilson
3. Andre Johnson
4. Marques Colston
5. Tony Gonzalez
6. J.J. Watt
7. Seattle Defense
8. DeAngelo Williams
9. Josh Freenman
10. Lamarr Woodley
11. T.Y. Hilton
12. Vick Ballard
13. Aldon Smith
14. Shayne Graham
15. Troy Polamalu
16. Mikel Leshoure
17. Malcolm Floyd
18. Richard Sherman
19. Brian Hartline
20. Anthony Spencer
1. Adrian Peterson
2. Russell Wilson
3. Andre Johnson
4. Marques Colston
5. Tony Gonzalez
6. J.J. Watt
7. Seattle Defense
8. DeAngelo Williams
9. Josh Freenman
10. Lamarr Woodley
11. T.Y. Hilton
12. Vick Ballard
13. Aldon Smith
14. Shayne Graham
15. Troy Polamalu
16. Mikel Leshoure
17. Malcolm Floyd
18. Richard Sherman
19. Brian Hartline
20. Anthony Spencer
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
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