Mulberry Merman's Marvelous Mixtape

MMMMixtape is moving! RIP Blogspot

2011-06-15T12:20:00.001-07:00

Blogspot's been real good to me, so many good memories. And boy do I have a lot of gems on here, but it's just not as social as I'd like, and after months of contemplating, I think it's time to make the move. I'm going to leave all my old posts up on this website, but start fresh on Tumblr.

Fear not, I'm just moving the address, mixtapes and music will still be the same.

Join me on my Tumblr blog here.

Come, be friends, follow blogs, and listen to incredible music.

Cheers,
Hayley

Someday I'll be like the man on the screen

2011-05-07T12:15:00.001-07:00

The new Fleet Foxes album is so, so good. My dear compatriots, when you think the best of music is behind us, know that there is no wrong side of history. If you need more proof (as there are so many astounding musicians in this generation) I think Fleet Foxes have provided it with 'Helplessness Blues'. Since you asked, yes, I think Crosby, Still, Nash, and even Young would admire it. That's the thing with great music, when it's good, it's timeless. Gosh, I still can't get over the lyrics... I imagine laying in a sunny wheat field contemplating my whole life, and when I was done making all of those life changing decisions, I'd go to my orchard and work 'till I'm sore.

I can't quit playing Montezuma, Helplessness Blues, The Cascades (which makes me feel like I need to run away from New York City and join a band of traveling gypsies on and American adventure), and Blue Spotted Tail. Instaclassic.

I was raised up believing

I was somehow unique
Like a snowflake distinct among snowflakes
Unique in each way you can see

And now after some thinking
I'd say I'd rather be
A functioning cog in some great machinery
Serving something beyond me

But I don't, I don't know what that will be
I'll get back to you someday soon you will see

What's my name, what's my station
Oh just tell me what I should do
I don't need to be kind to the armies of night
That would do such injustice to you

Or bow down and be grateful
And say "Sure take all that you see"
To the men who move only in dimly-lit halls
And determine my future for me

And I don't, I don't know who to believe
I'll get back to you someday soon you will see

If I know only one thing
It's that every thing that I see
Of the world outside is so inconceivable
Often I barely can speak

Yeah I'm tongue tied and dizzy
And I can't keep it to myself
What good is it to sing helplessness blues?
Why should I wait for anyone else?

And I know, I know you will keep me on the shelf
I'll come back to you someday soon myself

If I had an orchard
I'd work till I'm raw
If i had an orchard
I'd work till I'm sore

And you would wait tables
And soon run the store

Gold hair in the sunlight
My light in the dawn
If I had an orchard
I'd work till I'm sore

If I had an orchard
I'd work till I'm sore

Someday I'll be
Like the man on the screen

Oh, hello you.

2011-03-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

I suck at this. I always make a plan to write about something, and then forget all about this thing. Is Tumblr better? Seems everyone likes it, but I haven't quite figured it out how to make it not suck yet. My profile looks like I made it on Microsoft Paint. Which I guess isn't that bad, it's probably ironically popular, you know, to make your profile look like you made it with your Nintendo. Anyway, I'll try to be better. I listen to a lot of music, and should probably keep track of it. Given I stopped buying CD's 3 years ago and haven't paid for a song in 2 (I know, I'm a maritime delinquent of music) I rarely keep track. So this is the song that when I heard it, I wanted to create a speaker hat and broadcast it for all to hear. So happy, this one from the new Starfucker album. Short; I wish there was about 20 more minutes of it, but it's such a nice little morsel. If it doesn't make you want to build a sandcastle on the sun then ride a unicorn over the rainbow into a pile of mini marshmallows...then you clearly haven't eaten enough mushrooms yet.

Like it? Here's the whole Album

Cheers,

Merman

Girl Talk - All (D-AY-um) Day

2010-11-16T12:46:00.000-08:00

One song at a time? Psh! Who needs that? DJ virtuoso Gregg Michael Gillis, better known as Girl Talk, dropped his new album All Day for free download yesterday, and it broke the internet, all day. Literally, so many people scrambled to download it that their servers crashed within 20 minutes of posting it.

For those of you who aren’t familiar, Girl Talk puts our multitasking brains to shame, often mashing up to 10 songs in 10 seconds. And for this 75 minute OG Opus, you can try to dig out those 350+ samples. I mean, ELO and Project Pat? Jay Z and Michael McDonald? Ridiculous. You know that feeling you get when your jam comes on? I mean your jammm. Times that by a thousand; it’s that kind of excitement on loop for the entire album.

Here's the track list:

01. Oh No
02. Let It Out
03. That’s Right
04. Jump on Stage
05. This Is the Remix
06. On and On
07. Get It Get It
08. Down for the Count
09. Make Me Wanna
10. Steady Shock
11. Triple Double
12. Every Day

Here, I've made it easy!

Download it here:

http://www.illegal-art.net/allday/

Or here, if the ravers are still crashing:

try these mirrors (send corrections/additions to info@illegalart.net):
http://www.mediafire.com/?vy057v6rld16oee
http://hotfile.com/dl/82708513/c2cc374/Girl_Talk_-_All_Day_IA123_.rar.html
http://rapidshare.com/files/431007441/Girl_Talk_-_All_Day.zip
http://hotfile.com/dl/82737194/10b4ffc/Girl_Talk_-_All_Day_(IA123)_mp3s.zip.html
http://www.fileserve.com/file/VTHERSe/www.NewAlbumReleases.net_Girl
http://www.gigasize.com/get.php?d=x48mbhdh3dc
http://d01.megashares.com/dl/kydpIvf/Girl%20Talk%20-%20All%20Day.zip
http://www.filesonic.com/file/r000216945/32493377/girl_talk_-_all_day_ia123

A very enthusiastic cheers!

Merman

Stateless - Ariel

2010-11-05T08:26:00.001-07:00

The appreciation of body form of formal dance is making a [don't call it a]comeback. We've most recently seen Crunk turn in it's baggy pants for black tutu's in Kanye West's Runaway. And in Stateless's clip of the new single 'Ariel' (Off the upcoming Album 'Matilda, out early 2011) is a visually stunning display of such lyrical prowess. Bravo, the gang at FIELD, who directed this hybrid of raw movement and visual effect. I especially like the amass of musical styles, from the complex systems of sitar-ish beat to the (totally sounds like a Transformer) bass wave. Just absolutely stunning toe to tip. Can't wait to see what's to come, mark your calendars!

Cheers,

Merman

DIBS: Kanye West's Runaway

2010-10-25T21:44:00.000-07:00

I guess I can't write this fast enough. While I was upstate this weekend Kanye West's Runaway premiered on MTV. On the way back, I sat in the front seat of a rainy, nighttime Greyhound watching, flabbergasted, at this 30 minute manifesto written and directed by 'Ye himself (with some highbrow inspiration from across the board, but we'll get to that later).

For tonight, I just need to get this in front of your faces as quickly as possible. Get a good pair of headphones a half an hour of interrupted time, and check it. Tomorrow, I'll fill you in on my thoughts on what this infuriating, intriguing beautiful piece is.

I will only leave you with something well put by performance artist Aliza Shvarts regarding West's performance, "Somehow we have to be open to unmaking ourselves to remake ourselves in other ways."

Love him or hate him, like Elvis's hips or MJ's Thriller, West's Runaway speaks very loud for our generation's musical imprint in the world.

"All of the statues that we see, where do you think they came from?"

"I think that artists carved them years and years ago,"

"No, they are phoenix turned to stone, do you know what I hate most about your world? Anything that is different, you try to change. You try to tear it down. You rip the wings off the phoenix and they turn to stone. And if I don't burn, I will turn to stone. If I don't burn, I can't go back to my world."

Cheers,

Merman

Make up Homework

2010-10-22T10:39:00.001-07:00

Here are some of the songs I'm digging on at the moment... When I'm sprinting from work to the subway to volleyball games and then back to work. Maybe next week I will be able to form a sentence!

First two are from actress/singer/Rilo Kiley's Jenny Lewis most recent venture with boy toy Jonathon Rice, Jenny & Johnny. I think these songs show 2 sides to the golden coin that is this album.

New York Cartoon - The traditional side. The lyrics remind me of something I will sing when I'm young, something I will sing when I'm old, and something my children will sing with the same kind of nostalgia.

Slavedriver - There are those quirks I do love so much about JL. I think it's different than most songs on the album, a hook track if you will.

PS. I love you - New band to me, thanks Evan Minsker. Their playign at CMJ this week in NYC.. I'd love to see them, but, you know, I'm having trouble finding time to eat during the day.

Warpaint - A lady quartet with the most CLAMJAMMING Ashes to Ashes David Bowie Cover.

GOLDIES (Oldy but goody sandwich) and LCD Soundsystem.
The Long Winters -The commander thinks aloud, always gets stuck in my head in the fall.
LCD Soundsystem - Someone great. Watch the unofficial video, you'll understand.

Cheers,
Merman

Flying Lotus: LOL NO PROBS! :)

2010-10-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

Are you serious? What a fantastic first video to watch today. BeepBoop, whatever your name is, Kudos for directing this video (#justkiddingit'sBeeple). Flying Lotus has somehow found a way to make mass genocide of parade patrons by the hand of robots super cute. The flow-stop movement and pixelated blood spatters kind of remind me of Reboot, a Saturday morning cartoon favorite of mine (remember that ish?) Maybe that's why I like this vid so much. God I loved that show. Anyway, I think my favorite part are the lovely wonderment of posters the doomed humans wave around in celebration of pony dreams, diapers, and kissing dudes.

Flying Lotus - Kill Your Co-Workers from Warp Records on Vimeo.

Cheers,
Merman

PS. Get it now?!

Disclaimer: I don't feel nice today

2010-10-15T08:38:00.000-07:00

...So scroll past this post if you’re having a good Friday. Oh and family members? Sorry, I’ll probably offend you with my language.This is a first, and probably a last, but there's a song in there somewhere. Promise.

This is about women in NYC. Not just any woman, I’m talking about ‘that girl’. I’m talking to you, the diluted American Princess. The kind that give women a bad name, and will probably never realize it.

I get it. A 13 to 1 women to [straight]men ratio in Manhattan probably fosters much of the stupidity, jealousy, and full-on penis driven frivolity I observe from women every day in this city. I see it on the subway, at the office, and most often at highly concentrated breeding grounds thinly veiled as happy hour ladies' nights and office mixers. From 96th street to Battery Park city, women are hiking their skirts, skipping lunch, scouring for Prada, Bloomingdales, sex and perfume, all for the elusive whiff of attention from a well-to-do financially stable blue-eyed boy, just looking to display his woman like freshly hunted wild game on his Mahogany wall. She'll stand there, too, with a frozen glazed-eye smile, so proud of her coveted status as trophy girlfriend. And it's not hard, either. The men have it easy, fishing in a barrel full of vapid, beautiful exotic fish. At least once a day I see a leggy brunette, sunken cheeks pinched with rosy stain, hair slicked back in a deliberate disheveled high-bun, designer bag in one hand, and a slimy, short arrogant fucking disgusting Wall Street financial investor in the other. You must be so proud. You got your man, and it only cost you your values, self-worth, bank account, ownership of your body, and mind. Congratulations. What's worse is that said self-loathing entitled shithead Mister is representative of the greater part of the single, straight, disease free male population in Manhattan. Can I just say something? Just one, little, tiny bit of opinion to those choice men and women about which I'm ranting?

WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU? REALLY?

I understand the human condition of love and the innate desire for it. I understand the human condition for the need to connect, for affection, for attention. I also understand that it may be more difficult in a city where woman outnumber men 13 to 1. But I really, really don't think that is an excuse for reckless abandonment of yourself, ladies. It may not seem like that's what you are doing, but every time you compromise your true self for the attention of someone else, not only are you relegating your own self-worth, you're also fueling the entitlement of self-centered people.

And yes, many women genuinely love to feel sexy, love to flaunt their assets and express themselves through high-end fashion and low-food intake. You know, I like makeup. I like feeling and looking good, too. I like new shoes and first dates and lip gloss. Heck I like dressing up and acting like a woman (rare, but true) and flirting, too. There's nothing wrong with taking care of yourself and having fun. But here's the thing:

You, and by you I mean the women who give women a bad name, have a fucking fundamental misunderstanding of what it means to love yourself, and what it means to sell yourself out.

In my very young, 24 year old freshly imported opinion, the moment a prospect of penis is introduced, everything else in many women’s lives becomes gray. I have seen and experienced, time and time again, the mysterious disappearance of a friend when a man is introduced, only to become the sporadic, wallowed shoulder after a fight about something stupid. I'll be there for you, too. We are all human and experience passion and fighting, irrationality and weakness. And I will comfort the shit out of you. But when it becomes permanent behavior, when erratic, self-pitying banter become the norm, that is when it is unacceptable. When you place more importance on your diet-o-the-week with the goal being to fit into those skinny jeans you've stapled to your front door, over showing up to your friend's home cooked meals, then you have disappointed me. Then you have contributed to the vicious, paltry cycle of gross materialism that infects the minds and hearts of women, and every little girl looking up to you. You love zombie! Stop eating our brains!

I only ask you to think about this: Why does sex or a relationship have to be the single most important influence over your happiness, where you live, what you choose to do, what you look like, what your interests are, and what your dreams become? Does it not seem like a shallow replacement for how you should feel about yourself? Shouldn't you want a counterpart to be a part of your life instead of the whole fucking thing? And don't you want to feel like an equal?

Maybe I'm too cynical at the ripe old phase of post adolescence, maybe I’m too critical, resentful, or scared to let someone influence me like that – especially deriving from the prospect of sex and attention – But, I can’t help that it infuriates me every time a woman, after dating someone for a week, adopts phrases like "WE'LL see you later!" or, "Oh, WE just couldn't, WE have so much to do this weekend" into her daily vernacular. Maybe I am making sweeping generalizations, but it just seems like a lot women think relationships are their main goal, their highest achievement, and must declare ownership of a man, like pissing on a tree, immediately. Have you ever thought that maybe it shouldn’t be your entire identity? You shouldn’t be Kyle’s girlfriend, and maybe you should have a life and set of interests that others identify you with before your relationship with someone else?

I should mention that I’m partially self aware; I realize this is most likely a self-indulgent and highly biased manifesto. But, I guess it’s better than taking it out on every starving, shallow money hungry sex driven retard in NYC who knows more about lipstick and high heels than they know about themselves; and every smart, respectable woman who transforms into a ball of stupid trying to act cutesy around their significant other. (Hint: Save it for when you’re not in public, save it for the quiet nights at home, whatever you do; just stop calling him baby in a whiny high pitched voice, especially on the phone at work. In your cubicle. Among 50 other cubicles. Note: WE CAN ALL FUCKING HEAR YOU.)

Wow. She’s really worked up. She thinks she’s so perfect, so rational, so edgy and curt, but she knows nothing about who I am. Who is she to judge? She’ll eat her words the second she’s in a relationship, too. She’s just jealous. She’s a coward for putting this on a blog, instead of saying it to whatever girl she’s talking about. Don’t hate me ‘cause you ain’t me. So on. So forth. I hear you, and whatever thoughts bounce up from your non-existent stop-gap. You want to know why? Because I am you.

I am faced with the same insecurities you are. Dear American Princess, I have fallen in love, too. Lust, too. I have felt lonely, and sought the company of others for a temporary solution. And yeah I have stared at a closet full of clothes and seen nothing. I might even have a couple pairs of emotional shoes, too. We all do. A completely rational life is the dumbest thing I can think of. Then again, so is following a penis around like a fucking pied piper. So what gives?

You have a choice. I think every woman will and should indulge in youth and sexuality, make some bad decisions, laugh about them the next day, shake them off, and learn the hard way. But after you do those things? You know, after all the Facebook stalking and new dress shopping, after all the subtext behind the texts and active sleepovers? After pretending to love the Atlanta Braves and Curb Your Enthusiasm and Derek Jeter’s batting average and Kenny Chesney… [can I insert trying to be a humble-yet-masturbatory HIPSTER through all of that? Oh come on, you’re not that ironic] take a time out, and learn from it.

Stop the rat race and do things for you. Stop pretending to like Kurt Vonnegut books and Kevin Smith movies just because he does (I mean you could, but probably don’t). Stop thinking ‘if you just lost 5 more pounds…’ then he would love you and every other silly thought going on in that spaghetti brain of yours. Value people, who, oh, I don’t know, appreciate your humor and intelligence, and the fact that you lead your own life instead of catering to theirs. You have so much more potential, you otherwise amazing woman. You might just find something more meaningful and impressive from your own brain; any maybe even stop one of those terrible, terrible types of men from thinking he deserves better than you. Because if you don’t respect yourself, then why the hell should he? I have complete faith in you, faith that somewhere buried underneath the Spanx, crash diets, and bandwagons that there is a much stronger woman in you. Can you just, like, let her show up to the party every once in a while? She’s so much more fun. Oh, here’s a song. I’m having a bad day. Whatever.

Cheers[sarcasm],

Merman

Do I like Telekinesis?

2010-10-13T08:44:00.001-07:00

Well, obviously, I do. But, I haven't decided about the band. I like the song well enough, but can't decide if there's some sort of dark passenger hipster appeal sucking me in. Thoughts?

Telekinesis : Dirty thing from morr music on Vimeo.

Cheers,
Merman

Roethlisberger, Not David Bazan [who is better]

2010-10-12T13:24:00.000-07:00

That's what I was trying to spell, but Firefox felt there were more appropriate alternatives:

I concur. I Con-Cur. Anyway, this little Roethlisbortion moment reminded me of a line from one of my new favorite tracks by David Bazan. He sings 'Because it's hard to be/ a decent human being'. Granted, I'm sure he wasn't talking about the strife of making bazillions of dolla dolla bills whilst wrecking motorcycles and raping bitches. I don't think Bazan, lead singer of indie minimalists Pedro the Lion and the very synthesized Headphones, would endorse said activity. He was probably just talking about littering and complacency.

Also, this infinitely better human being struck out on his own this year, band in hand for the first time in 5 years, and the last 2010 performance is at The Showbox in Seattle on Saturday, November 27. So, you should probably go.

Cheers,
Merman

I'm Gay for Aunt Martha

2010-10-11T07:37:00.001-07:00

I had a good weekend. So good, in fact, I forgot to post about it. On Friday, I finally got my ass down to see a friend's-boyfriend's-band-that-he-manages (for real) at the Living Room.

Usually, when your friends insist that 'this band is so good, you have to come!' you're expecting something that maybe a mother would love. You already anticipate to think 'Yeah! They sort of sound like Maroon 5, if Maroon 5 had no money and played Gavin DeGraw covers!' Oh come on, you know you cringe too when you think about sitting next to your friend, trying to smile and nod con tempo, loathing each elbow nudge paired with excited eyes, finger pointed stageward, silently mouthing 'AREN'T THEY AWESOME?' Meanwhile, you want to die.

I'm happy, and really, genuinely fucking surprised to say, I liked them, a lot. I really did. Aunt Martha is not a woman smelling of White Diamonds and shoulder pad foam, but lumberjack lady killer Tim Noyes and friends Garrett Leahy, and Brian Kim.They've only been a band for a little over a year, but there's promise and genuine my-voice-was-made-of-lonely-hearts talent. Anyway, that's enough from me. You'll be seeing these guys around. Maybe in bonafide Avett Brothers blow up in your face style. Here's my attempt at capturing the magic, but you should really check out their website and brush up on those rusty made for lovin' pipes onTim.

Cheers,
Merman

BABFBD

2010-10-06T13:47:00.000-07:00

You know how we do:

This is Tracey [right], my resident wife and and official bad ass. Today is her birthday, but don't ask her because she'll say it's the 7th. As you may recall, I moved to New York in March of '09 funky fresh out of college to start a wet dream job at an ad agency. Tracey has been an integral contribution to my sanity and acclamation to this retard psycho circus they like to call Manhattan/corporate America/adulthood. There were a million places I could have gone, jobs I could have taken, people I could have met. However, the universe decided it was time for me to meet a friend that reinstates hope in fate; the kind of gal that restores order to the universe and reminds you 'hey, maybe I made the right decision, after all'. She's taken me so many places, and traveled home with me to Ohio and West Virginia. We've been to foggy London town and the Jersey Shore, and next on our list is, in fact, your song of the day. Thanks to a superb recco, I think I've found the track that captures everything I love about said best friend, and everything she's helped me through in such a short amount of time. Happy birthday Czykk, if you thought this quarter of your life was crazy, imagine how the next one's going to be with me in it.

Cheers,
Merman

Villagers > Cold Sweet Potatoes

2010-10-05T08:18:00.000-07:00

That's what's for breakfast:

Word to the wise: Don't do it. Just don't.

Speaking of potatoes, there is only one thing that could console me from this tragedy that is my breakfast. And that's my favorite Irish lova, Coner J. O'Brien, who fronts Villagers during the times we aren't swooning. The track 'Becoming a Jackal' is so good, I personally nominated it for a Mercury Prize in July, but decided not to elect it the winner because then, I might have to share. Upon reflection, I think it's time... now, does anyone want these fucking terrible potatoes?

Cheers,
Merman

Sexual Chocolate!

2010-10-03T18:48:00.000-07:00

'Banoffee' Toffee Pie, Vegan Chocolate Ganache, Sweet Parsnip ca-HOLYFUCK-ke.

Sexual. That's the word you were looking to succinctly describe what sits in my face this evening. Reason enough to hang out in a Greenwich village 1 bed/showroom, surrounded by ADDivas at a swanktimate getogether. Really, it's the only way I could describe roommate 1's birthday.

Speaking of white hot, sexy, yummy take off your pants jams, here's one for the cakes. I Can See it in Your Face is a little diddy by Pretty Lights off 'Making Up a Changing Mind' EP. It's bit too cool for me. Kind of like the way that intellectual sexual sitting in the back of the Harlem speakeasy looks with his bow tie and skullcandy headphones, deliberately perched around a flannel neck. It's the perfect mix of sticky salty, with muted trumpets dubbed over Daft Punk's modulators, James Brown's organ, and Moby's famed soul singers. After 7 minutes of the stuff (and by stuff, I mean the aforementioned cakes, intellectual sexual, or this track) you'll need a cigarette.

Cheers,

Merman

The little guys

2010-10-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

Found in the H&M Fitting rooms in SoHo:

His name is Dudley, and we have a lot in common, actually. Small, cute if you have good taste, and watching tons of women buy clothes all day that we would NEVER wear (mesh orange riding pants?) And that's okay, because we're both rich in ways those wonkies can't touch. We're, as it turns out, the richest kids in town.

So, in honor of priceless charm that so few people in NYC enjoy, your song today is This Is Ivy League, The Richest Kids in Town. I'm a sucker for sentiment, as are many 20 something ladies besotted with the 1950's; This is Ivy League conjure such a sensibility.

Cheers,

Merman

Jeff Bridges Hearts Deerhunter

2010-10-01T12:21:00.001-07:00

Two things everyone like: Jeff Bridges and Black & White. God. Just look at that poetry. Stunning! There's something about black and white, it can make anything look purposefully elegant. Nevermind he's probably kill shotting someone from a mirror over his shoulder, which is already way fucking elegant.

Jeff Bridges gets it, and apparently, so does Deerhunter. Take their new video for example. Slap a few overlapping reels of faces dubbed over LA Sunsets and dark spots and you've got yourself a timeless piece.

That being said, if I had to pick a song I think this B&WJB (see what I did there?) would like, it'd have to be Deerhunter's new one, 'Helicopter'. Classy, accessible, sexy, bubbly, all attributes both Jeff and Deerhunter share.

Off of their new album Halcyon Digest, released in September, it's one song of many 'I know-everyone's-saying-Deerhunter-is-good-but-I-just-haven'- listened-to-them-ye-ohhhh, yeah-they-actually-are...' songs. I'll admit, I have much to learn about them, but in the mean time, let's all share in this classy Black and white video:

And remember, if you just can't figure out a way to make it classy, just put it in black and white.

Cheers,
Merman

Grab 2 Beers and Jump!

2010-09-29T08:54:00.000-07:00

Today at the office, a disgruntled employee lost his voice, freaked out on the account team, and quit via resignation letter and 'fuck you' e-mail to the entire company. Classy. Kind of like this! He only left one piece of himself, meticulously placed at the corner of his recklessly abandoned desk. Not unlike a serial killer's calling card, like an Ace playing card, or a severed ear - as if to say 'Your welcome, corporate America':

Just kidding. That's mine. To be fair, he was acting a dash 'swedish candy toy dog' today. But hey, if you - newest member of the Fuck you Jet Blue community - see this post and decide to wear my skin as a dress, I want you to remember one thing. One time I went to the corner store and bought you Swedish Fish. Yeah, I saw that look in your ~~Rage induced twitching~~ glimmering eye. That's right... just put the gun down... Swedish Fish.

Anyway. This song is for you. And by for you, I mean not at you, but what I think you would want to sa-uhhh forget it...

Cheers,
Merman

Daily Drop, Montly Mix.

2010-09-27T10:53:00.000-07:00

So you guessed it by now. I forget about this thing sometimes. I also think that when I say 'you', I really me 'me' and 2 other 'you's'. I'm guessing it's Don & Dylan, but I digress. So here's the deal: Daily track. Monthly Mix. And a picture of my life to boot. I think I can handle it.

This is Grace. She's not a business man, she's a business, man. I went home to Ohio for a Keller family reunion this weekend, and I must say, I think I know where I get my swagger. Speaking of which, I can't think of one track more fitting. Stylish, genuine - an instant classic. Pretty much sums up both Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, and my little cousin Grace.

Home, released in 2009, is a bit of a departure for Alex Ebert, who was also the lead singer for Ima robot. Under this new rootin' tootin' maw & paw moniker, he's crafted some sort of time warp that manages to contrive both nostalgia and freshness. On Sunday my sister and I were listening to NPR's bluegrass hour, and she mentioned that [they] just don't make music like they used to. I beg to differ, and this track is why. 'Home' is like the first leaves of fall. Specifically, it's the smell. All other seasons let you forget how much you love a woodsy smell that sinks into the skin, and every September it still feels new in lungs. That's how I felt about seeing my family. And that's how I think I'll feel about this song in 20 years. So thanks, Mr. Sharp. You've saved me from a lot of song writing classes, guitar lessons and tortured nights of longing and reflection. Shew!

Cheers,

Merman

A Summer MMMMixtape

2010-07-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

Less talk. More Action. And before these 27 tracks are no longer relevant, I'd like to give you my favorite songs for this summer, and a little sumpin' sumpin' about each.

Cheers!

Merman

PS. Promise, no more 3 month hiatuses.

Post Acid - Wavves: From their upcoming album King of the Beach, a song that's much more fun than it's name implies. Recommended to blast for the 1st 30 minutes of a road trip to the beach.

Rill Rill - Sleigh Bells: This song is so fun, and good luck getting it out of your head. It's sticky and sweet with kick, and even better in a great set of headphones.

Younger Us. - Japandroids: The first time I read a "low-fi post-beach surfer-alt rock" review I wanted to puke. C'mon guys. This song screams nostalgia, and it makes perfect sense that Mark Hoppus is obsessed with this band. They are the perfect cure for the discord between a nostalgic heart and a cynical opinion.

The Only One - Manchester Orchestra: Off the 2009 album Mean Everything to Nothing, it was the song that tipped me in favor of Andy Hull & Co. It kicks ass while taking your hand and teaching you to dance.

Surrounded by your friends - Hooray for earth: Some songs can capture the way your friends can give equal parts comfort and joy. I couldn't think of a less gay word than joy, 'cause that's just what it is. Times when you you realize that your with your chosen family, that's what this is.

Sometimes I don't need to believe in anything - Teenage Fanclub: TF never gets old, and their music doesn't either. Thanks to Nick Hornby I have a very biased opinion, but this track is so fresh and so clean, it's hard, yet unavoidable, to believe they are the veteran pop rock de facto.

What part of forever - Cee Lo Green: Yeah, whatever. I know, it's on the Twilight Soundtrack. And you know why? Because the song is great, and so is that soundtrack. But I also know it's one half of Gnarls Barkley, and that's okay with me. Yeah, I said it. Perfect for writing love letters when you've forgotten how to channel the 16 year old heartsick in you.

Moves - The New Pornographers: Epic chorus + catchy, syncopated beats+ major key tonality + incredible talent and chemsitry + a dash of pretension = hate to love it, but you totally do.

On Melancholy Hill - Gorillaz: Hands down, one of the best albums this summer. Looking back, I think the Gorillaz will be a perfect zeigeist to what music means in our generation, whether you like it or not, they really fucking got it.

Pow Pow - LCD Soundsystem: I can't get enough of LCD's new album This is Happening; flawless. And this song in particular is the example of perfect delivery. The only way this could get better is if William Shatner decided to do guest vocals. Incredible.

Teenage Color (Russ Chimes Remix) - College: And sometimes you just need to put on something with a good beat. Straighten up! Look Sharp!

The High Road - Broken Bells: Love to hate them, because they'll never touch the Shins. It ain't bad though, folks. This single ain't bad at all. It certainly won't marsh your mellow, anyway.

Sinister Kid - The Black keys: Absolutely, without a doubt the sexiest song on Brothers. Actually, it might just be the sexiest song of the summer. Every song on their new album is incredibly soulful and well thought out; and this one really makes me want to get to know Dan Auerbach a little bit better...in the dark.

Tell 'Em - Sleigh Bells: There are a couple of artist on the summer list I'll repeat, sleigh bells being one of them. And again, good headphones are required, or it gets a little fuzzy. Anyway, this one will wake you the fuck up, but do it ever so cheerfully.

The Suburbs - Arcade Fire: At first, I didn't like it, until I caught myself singing it over and over until I had to listened to it again. And then, just like that, the lyrics caught me;I was sucked into the Arcade Fire Fanwagon.

This is Real - Best Coast: Any cuter and you'd need a bib. Bethany Cosentin has been described as noise-pop and space-drone, but really, she understands the space between the noise, and that's where she sinks into you. Great B-side to 'When I'm with you'.

Right Ahead, Young Sailor! - Right Away Great Captain!: A side project of Andy Hull from Manchester Orchestra, but only recently discovered by me. The acoustic folk-pop is quite a departure, but isn't that what side projects are for? Great for lounging in the park by the water.

The Girl - City and Colour: I'm a sap for the lyrics, end of story.

Older - Band of Horses: Although I liked their first 2 albums much better than Infinite Arms, there are 2 tracks that tug at the heartstrings like BoH used to. This being one of them, and the other (my favorite) at the end. It seems like the fans said "Hey, Band of Horses, this is what we like" and they delivered, but too eagerly, too succinctly. Sometimes I think you've got to make us work for it, make us really listen. Don't give it all to us up front, you know. Cross the legs a bit, I like my lady with a little bit of mystery. 'Older' and 'Blue Beard' aren't as eager as the rest of the album.

Signs (MMMathis Remix) - Bloc Party: Kick the track, change the beat, repeat.

When We were young (breakbot remix) - Sneaky Sound System: Great beat. Love it for the evenings when you're not sure if you want to go to the bar or not. It's begging to be remixed.

Dance Yrself Clean - LCD Soundsystem: The first time I heard this song I was floored. Awesome minute after minute, it's the longest song you'll never get sick of.

Next Girl - The Black Keys: One of my other favorite tracks of the new Brothers album. Sometimes bands write lryics for the music, and sometimes they write the music for the lyrics. And sometimes, the truth is so thick and deep, so saturated with sweat and tears, that both word and song come from the same place in the heart. I don't think you could have one without the other in this song. They really hit home with this one.

Many Shades of Black - The Raconteurs: After the remorse and pain has settled in a less than perfect situation, all your left with is your lessons to teach. And if I've ever heard a lesson with fervor and sarcasm, with every kind of shit, and the kind of shit you can live with, it's this.

White Blank Page - Mumford & Sons: I feel like I'm personally in love with each member of Mumford & Sons. The first time I heard them was in my favorite Irish bar, Sweet Afton, in Astoria. Stu, the bartender/co-owner, was sitting with his Nut Brown Ale in the corner, looking faintly at the lights singing along "...I really fucked it up this time/and it was your heart on the line...". Goosebumps. The second time was at Bonnaroo, andI saw the same faint expression painted in the lead singers eyes, it was in the air, it was in the lyrics being screamed back. This group of gentlemen laid their heart out on their bows, and we've picked up every ache.

Blue Beard - Band of Horses: The other song that isn't an eager girl on Infinite arms, and my personal favorite. Give it a shot, it's not as catchy as some of the other manufactered songs on the album, but once you get to the chorus, you'll remember how you felt falling in love at a Halloween school dance.

To Build a Home - Cinematic Orchestra: If you don't slip into a contemplative, quiet calm while listening to this, I'm really not sure what would make you. This reminds me of an Ohio river sunset on a Sunday, the way you feel between homes. The way you feel when you're not sure what is home, but you feel it calling somewhere deep down.

Meant to play start to finish, I hope you like it as much as I did. You can tell me what you think if you want. Happy Summer my little music geeks.

Want one? Just ask :)

Springles

2010-04-06T21:33:00.000-07:00

Ah....Finally NYC. Wind that doesn't cut through to the bone; just gusts of comfortable that's cool around the edges. At last, a sky that more closely resembles bottoms swimming pools than slabs of concrete sidewalk. That's right, folks. It's fucking spring. Bring it on, pollen! I will sniff you up and stuff you in my nose, put you in my lungs and cough you out ANYDAY before I go back to snowy booby traps thinly disguised as my morning commute.

This weekend was A++, with a sticker in the corner, in bright red ink with exclamation points. And if the sweet, warm breeze and a blanket of sun weren't enough to warm my heart, the Hayley Maker came to town. You guessed it. Momma Keller visited for the first time in a year and we basked in all spring's glory.

Today's mixtape is especially dedicated to New York City spring chickies. And by chickies, I mean everyone. We just appreciate it so. much. When the first warm weekend comes people just go bananas and start lying on the sidewalks and shit. Seriously, we'll hop right up on that dumpster lid and have lunch if that means we get to sit in the sun. Everyone becomes ridiculous amounts of excited and let it all hang out. Then it's like "Shit, I can't wear these hot pants to work!? What was I thinking?" and they tone it down just enough to not offend building security or subway passengers. But that's it! That's all you're gettin'! Finally, we'll squeeze, yes squeeze, into Central Park, perch upon a hot rock and rock it like a fucking lizard (Said it, don't care).

So listen to the movements of NYC spring in the mix: Excitement. Whoa, too much excitement; put those boobs away. Bustin' out the capris. Jesus Christ. Putting the capris back in the closet. Nostalgia. Bonfires. And a sunset you swear you'd never see again. Sweet city springtime.

Cheers,

Merman

Tiger Year

2010-03-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

Nothing looks appetizing at 7:30am, not even those battery acid pineapples stained from it's blueberry neighbors. I pushed my 'tropical fruit delight' around with my plastic airport fork, listening to CNN have a meltdown about the stock market hitting an all-time low. My dad, mom, and sister were at the diner table behind me; Trish, sitting with me, bitched at the cashier for stealing her favorite pen, or something like that. I threw away my uneaten mush (I think they were supposed to be grapes?) and nervously smirked as we embraced for one last picture before I went through security, and fly into my new life. Mom teared up, to which I rolled my eyes, and sister squealed and waved excitedly until I rolled my carry on down the ramp in my yellow easter dress and newly purchased 'city' brown boots. I think I was numb to how much I'd miss them, either that, or so pleased to be leaving my orginal 'Tri-State Area' that I couldn't feel anything else. After a 2 hour plane ride and a traumatizing cab ride through Queens, I was here. 2068 23rd street, New Life, New York, 11105.

Yes, before you ask, I certainly feel like it has been a year. And yes, I love it, and yes, I'm glad I did it, and no, I don't know if it's going to be forever, and no, it wasn't easy, and yes, it was all worth it. Shew. Good. I'm glad we've covered those pre-depth awkward questions. But, the question is, what really happened this year? I won't bore you with my butchered attempts to describe it, so I'll show you.

But first! Please, like I wouldn't make a mixtape especially for this occassion. If you don't think I wouldn't carefully craft a mixtape that reflected my emotions and experiences of this year with seamless transition, then I just don't think we're on the same level of mutual respect.

So, put this on and listen from the first track to the last, scroll down, then I think you'll have a taste of a Mulberry New York Year.

The Comets Happened

Bonnaroo Happened.

Spencer Happened.

A weekend in Jersey Shore happened, YIKES!

Playing my flute after a 4 year hiatus happened.

Going back home with new friends happened.

Loving my old and new home at the same time happened...too

Helping my Marshall Girls and speaking at the conference that gave me my job happened.

The Inexplicable happened.

My childhood best friends tied the knot happened.

The Family Christmas card happened.

And who could forget? Sorry boys... happened.

No, I didn't slip into Williamsburg and return with a fanny pack, tattoos of cupcakes, and an apathy to corporate America. Though, I did drink outta cups (you're welcome). Some things just couldn't be captured in the click of a camera, so this i what you get, folks. I wish I got paid to push myself and say something all encompassing, pithy and cute. But the truth is, the rain today isn't doing any favors for my prose, and frankly I'm too preoccupied about surviving a zombie attack, anyway. So there you have it, a tip of my iceberg that is New York...

If you must know about the crack diving, pantless subway rides, or harlem speakeasys, I've also taken up answering fun questions here

Cheers,

Merman

You probly think this poem is about you! Don't you?

2010-02-03T07:18:00.000-08:00

Well... this is a first for me. I have written a poem. Yes, I know. I was surprised too. Yes, I've written a poem that I'll share with you. I might even suggest that it is not bad.

It's shocking for me too. I'm sorry, I just had to add these. There not much funny beyond this point. Just this once, I'm going to nix the mix and get a little naked for you. Not really, you know, just in the 'Tada! Here are some deep emotions!" kind of way. This winter has been a time of getting it all out in that cold and snowy (and far too windy) air and feeling better for it. Hey, it might even be a good guessing game for you, see if you're in it!

Cheers,

Merman

To Those Who Have Scorned Me

To you, my lost lamb
who saw something I didn’t
who knew the way
You, who saw that light ahead
A stern shepherd grasping an impervious cane
You, a stupid, stupid little lost lamb.

And to you, my emergency flare,
I saw Jesus in your eyes and in your bowed head
Jesus in your porch swing
in your open hand and guitar
in your pitcher of rum and rolled paper cigarettes
after midnight
under your shirt
in the small of my back
in the haze and headache
and hungover communion

I couldn’t tell who needed saving.

And to you, Mixtape Fantastic
quid pro quo pianos
electronics, quick quips
You, so quick to change the track
kick the beat

I kept up with your steps

I sweat, laughed, recited
memorized the steps
the turns and tempo changes

I shared your morning coffee

And to you, the Charleston South Carolina Cook,
You should know better, master chef,
than to twist your knife
so carelessly through bone
Especially when you’ve invited
them to dinner.

And to future scorners,
I will not believe
You
I will not dance to your drum
I will not believe your silence
Or your naked gospel

Times of Wine and Roses - The Duke Ellington Orchestra

The feeling is Vague, the Mixtape is not

2010-01-19T20:38:00.000-08:00

All I have to say is that it's been a bitchin' month for music. Put this in your pipe and smoke it:

This is my favorite:

I suggest you listen to this whole album sitting at the foot of your bed, lights dimmed with the biggest ridiculous headphones you can find. I guess it's one part broken social scene, mayhaps 2 parts, and genuine without the 'oh isn't everything so precious' quirks of the former band. I really am quite too tired to do it justice, so give it a go, folks.

Cheers,

Merman

No pants day in New York

2010-01-10T20:34:00.000-08:00

I get on the subway tonight to go to an organ concert, and what do I find?

And then in Union square....

Not kidding, folks. Today was no pants on the subway day. Why? That's a damn good question. Everyone I asked refused to answer the question. "Well the department stores are so hot, you've got to even it out". "Because my snuggie didn't come with pants!" And so on. If it weren't for a 100 year old organ at St. Thomas calling my name, well, I probably wouldn't have taken my pants off anyway. But, you've got options like that in this city. You've got options for nudity and duck-duck-goose in your underpants in the snow with 300 strangers. I like those options. At any rate... this is a good album:

Throughout my 2009 posts, I've notice I left a quite a good album consistently off of my radar. Yes, yes. You know them, you probably went to their sets in NYC, and they are very much a part of why 2009 music was so great. Miike Snow has make an album that blends artistic sound engineering and genuine music ability. So, I shall start off my 2010 with their whole album. It was one of my biggest pleasant surprises. My suggestion is Silvia, just sexy.

Cheers,

Merman

Swim Until you can't See Land

2009-11-19T20:37:00.000-08:00

Just a quick HOLY SHIT for ya tonight...

Frightened Rabbit's new video for "Swim Until you Can't See Land" is so warm and cozy in the comfiest of ways. Aren't you familiar with those shows you go to when you can't tell who is a bigger fan of whom? You know, the artist is just right in the shit of it, standing in the middle of he crowd, in awe of the lyrics being screamed back at them? It's like that. Plus... This is the coolest flashlight party I've ever seen. God, I can't wait for The Winter of Mixed Drinks. Which comes out in MARCH. Really, Fat Cat Records? Enjoy Scott Hutchison & Co with some other gems...

1. Modern Leper

2. Keep Yourself Warm

3. Behave

Cheers,

Merman

'Tis the Swell Season!

2009-11-09T16:26:00.000-08:00

STOP THE PRESSES!

I usually let it go a week, or 3 months, or so until I say anything on here. However, Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, (you may recall weeping over their albums together as The Swell Season.. and let us not forget Once) released Strict Joy on the 27th, and subsequently completed my second, and maybe third, life. They got the name right, that's for sure. Their lyrics and melodies swell in the heart and what overflows can only be described as complete and unadulterated joy and sorrow and love and awe. It's quite impressive, really.

It's happy and heartful and souful and haunting; a candid shot of a heart on a sleeve. If you're truly aching for something that will catch all the fish hooks surrounding your heart and tug up the greatest and most genuine ardor lurking under the surface, Strict Joy will have you reaching for a Kleenex and and hand to hold. Still trying to figure out how to speak the fiery Goidelic language of love, maybe this Irishman will look at me with those deep pools of blue green eyes and sing In These Arms.... Sigh.

From Strict Joy:

Cheers,

Merman

Whoaaaa Backlog.

2009-11-06T15:28:00.001-08:00

So... It's been a while. HI!

This is what happened: A friend told me, well, he told me didn't like what I wrote. We'll let it be that. Here is how I felt: Stupid. So I stopped writing. Here is what that was: Stupid. Then I read Kurt Vonnegut's Breakfast of Champions. And I forgot all about my my friend's superiority complex.

This is what it felt like:

I remembered that crazy is awesome. Awesome and crazy are two terms that can sometimes be opposite. The former describing a moment of awe, an impressive and somewhat unimaginable event. The latter usually indicates a negative and uncontrolled aspect of a person or thing. These terms are meant to put people in boxes in which they have either put themselves or someone else has done for them. Vonnegut reminded me that I hate boxes. And also, that sometimes your opinion sucks. I'd like to pay reckless disregard to any opinions of anyone who doesn't think, well, anyone who doesn't think he's any good, and so on. This is an Ode to Vonnegut. An ode is a dedication usually expressed in the form of medias like song, poety, acting, singing, or mixtapes. Definitely mixtapes. It is meant to put someone on a box, instead of in one. Here is one to Kurt Vonnegut.

This is what it sounds like:

Cheers,

Merman

The Hazards of Life: Death!

2009-08-24T19:16:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I was bobbing along in the subway listening to this album and reading a book about death. Well, death's expression in music, and how most songs today fail to capture the appreciation and acceptance of it, anyway. I must say, the combination of these was rather humbling. There was something about the simple and comforting lull of the guitar paired with a heart-aching folk undertone that did the trick. It stirred me to a level of calm and heavy contemplation I needed to feel the kind of emotion Graeme Thompson was talking about.

(If you're wondering...)

Usually, my love of music derives from it's ability to lift me up, it's capacity to enliven me beyond any other form of expression. I usually just scour tracks for the spark of a new high. Oh, Piss off, you do it too. Some have alcohol, and others have heroin. I, however, have a spanked-new 120 BPM pulse laid over banjos and key-tars. Okay. That's possible OD (and, I guess that'd be fitting for this post?)...But you get the picture. I've never taken music much further than a high. Oh, believe me. Its been a deep and soulful high. But it always has a lofty objective.

I've never really explored the feeling beyond that. You know...the feeling once the music fades. The feeling when your heart stops beating. The very moment when you feel the light leaving your eyes. When is the last time you heard something that accepted and described death in human terms?

Well - I'm not sure if it was the words of the book, or the hushed, stirring rhythm of Blind Pilot's fortitude that got me. But something did. And I considered it for a moment. It's a simple emotion, really, how we feel about death. So why does it seem like the artistic expression of it got lost in 'Trying to get to Heaven' by Bob Dylan? (...by the way, I think I like reading about him more than listening to him, sorry.) Why is it that most artists today stand around twiddling their thumbs when asked about Katrina or Iraq? Why is it that every song we listen to about the most shallow levels of sex or love or anger or complacency or apathy or protest? At least, that's basically what I catch in the lyrics of my favorite songs. And even more-so, why is it easier to write and talk extensively about death now than it is to feel it? I know I've ignored it. Probably because I'm 23 and stupid and scared of it and I have enough modern technology to forget it exists even though it will probably happen to me when I'm 400, maybe.

It doesn't have to be all that bad or unapproachable, now does it? I listened to a few tracks, swallowed hard, and I thought about how I would feel and what it might mean if I thought about death in a real way. Not fist fighting a silver back gorilla, and not flying off of a cliff in a 1966 Thunderbird Convertible holding Louise's hand (yes, I'm Thelma in this scenario). I mean death in the understanding that it will happen, and I should probably make sense of the whole fuss.

I guess I would treat it like any other life promenade. I'd get ready, quibble around for something to wear - give up - and wear something comfortable like I always do. I'd make sure the people I wanted were there, you know, the friends that laugh from the gut and ask more questions than favors. Then I'd find some music everyone could live with, okay, maybe just me. Then, I think I could welcome the warm, dark, numbing wave of the waters of Lethe. I think if I was hoary and decaying I would be at peace with it all. A little tired, a little humbled, and so grateful. Not unlike a really, really fun, long night out? You're exhausted, but so glad you did it. It'd be a rest well deserved, I think. And, anyway, it'd be the first time I shut my mouth and quit ranting. I think that'd make death a little more pleasant for anyone, really.

So if you want to think about it... here's how a few taxpayers take a stab at death (Hah! Get it? The only things certain are taxes & de-? ...Stab at dea-?... oh well.) And Yes, I've purposely dodged the more notable ballads that Thompson mentioned in 'I Shot A Man'...savoir-faire, dudes.

1. Oviedo - Blind Pilot

2. Godspeed - Radney Foster

3. Tryin' to Get to Heaven - Bob Dylan

4. The Rakes Song - The Decemberists

5. I will follow you into the Dark - Death Cab For Cutie

6. P.S. You rock my world - Eels

7. A Minor Incident - Badly Drawn Boy

8. Today - Smashing Pumpkins (had to do it, sorry.)

9. That Girl has love - Rooney

10. If I ever leave this world alive - Flogging Molly

11. Casimir Pulaski Day - Sufjan Stevens

12. Let the train whistle blow - Johnny Cash

Cheers,

Merman

Scarlett and Pete... really?

2009-08-06T13:00:00.000-07:00

So I never thought I'd say it... But Scarlett Johasson has an O.K. voice. To clarify, I said, "O.K."

Her track with Pete Yorn, "Relator"... Is really (cringe) not.. that.. bad..

If their album The BreakUp is anything like it, I think I might gain a little more respect for the little busty bombshell, and stick her on an adjacent shelf as Zooey. (No, not the same level, before you go Indie-pop psycho on me.)

Thoughts?

Anyway. It's not a mixtape.

But if you like this track you might also like:

1. Pomplamoose - Hail Mary

2. Soko - I'll Kill her

3. Kate Nash - Mouthwash (repeat!)

Cheers!
Merman

An Aural Anatomy of Summer

2009-07-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

By now, anyone and everyone can identify summer with a rusty click on the window AC, and the smell of SPF 30 and Rum (combined, of course). There seems to be a tradition with these smells and sounds that pack up summer neatly in their bottles and knobs, tucked away and ready for the next extended string of 80 degree days.

(Observe relaxation here)
For me, that sweet, sweet spark of summer means stepping up to the challenge of making a deck that:
A) not only captures the balmy thrill of air conditioners and sunscreen, but also
B) Proudly declare 'piss off!' to every other Marley carting carbon copy playlist that rears its ugly head year after year.

Sure, the nostalgia is comforting. But never as magical as the first time a true memory is made. So here are some new ones. A summer mapped out in 25 tracks.

Listen here

(bring it up in a new window, then come back and read along! Or just click on them..)

1. Something Good Can Work - Two Door Cinema Club
Whoa! That's bright, thank you first blinding days of sunshine...
2. Roman History - Pet Lions
You'd never know it wasn't a classic, but it's definitely just as fun. Even if you don't like pop, its summer, you let it slide.
3. Us - Regina Spektor
Oh, how beautiful summer can be. This track puts the A-to-the-V for all the pretty things.
4. Silver Lining - Rilo Kiley One of those perfect early July Friday evenings, where you're still coy enough to get giddy about patio parties.
5. Medicine- Starfucker ...But after a few on the deck, someone busts out the happiest dance music they can find on short notice, and so it starts.
6. Silver City - Ghostland Observatory
Get at least: 40 into it... then you won't skip it, and or the 5th tequila shot that launches idol feet onto the dance floor.
7. I (Joe Beats Remix) - Andrew Bird
Mr. Bird makes it onto roughly 1/3 of my mixes, even the popped up versions of his nectar.
8. Sunship Balloons - The Flaming Lips
Out of the many to choose from, this is the one Flaming Lips song I'm allowing, because I have a feeling that there is more potential for new memories.
9. Shotgun - Pete Yorn
A solid, uncharacteristically optimistic release from his new album, released, you guessed it, this summer.
10. I don't know what I can save you from - Kings of Convenience
And since we're relaxing in hammocks and whatnot, everyone needs some major chord packed strumming euro-alty crooners to wash down the rum...
11. Please, please, please let me get what I want - The Smiths
God. Don’t you just want to stand in the middle of a room and feel that unapologetic inconvenient idiotic spark of attraction coming from a hazy stare, a couple of drinks, a late night, and a poor decision on a jukebox?
12. Always like this - Bombay Bicycle club
And then the next day you realize you got caught up in the moment and you hit those sunglasses harder than anything. Ever.Oh and if you ever wondering what'd it's be like to dance with me, watch the video.
13. Stanger Lover - Ghostland Observatory
By far the funkiest summer jammy jam. For midsummer when you've finally unwound and felt pure gratification of the season.
14. Shot in the back of the head -Moby
Something about July allows a fun little thing to happen in your brain that November is far too miserable to do: total connection to the breeze, the warmth, the sky, the grass and you mind... and it's all clear and open.
15. The Girls - Calvin Harris
Go ahead. Go to any club this summer. You probably hate this song by this point. But every summer has a sticky one. And this one is it.
16. Reckoner's Encore - Jaydiohead
And this is just fucking cool. Don't worry white folk. Move Ov-a Justin Timberlake, it's cool for white people to listen to hip hop again.
17. Pop Song - Starfucker
Somewhere between the first drink at home and the ill-conceived cab ride home that overdraws your account. (Which you didn't account for a $90 tab anyway, who knew?)
18. Breakin' Up - Rilo Kiley
Its okay, guys. It's nearly August, and it's okay for you to listen to girls.
19. Friday I'm in love - The Cure
Okay. You've gone most of the summer with some new tunes. I guess you can have a little reminiscence peppered in.
20. Folding Chair - Regina Spektor
Another phenomenal summer release.
21. Pot Kettle Black - Wilco
It's early August. The humidity is finally out of the night air, and you've subconsciously moved from excitement to contentment.
22. Ragged Wood - Fleet Foxes
It's prime season for a bonfire, without the sweat rag.
23. Reasons to love you - Meiko
I know. You're not ready to let go of summer, and here are a few reasons why (sappy, poppy reasons for which you have no explanation, other than you can't get away with this shit any other time)
24. The Shining - Badly Drawn Boy
...But if September must come, Let's watch the leaves flash a brilliant, glowing fade in the most beautiful display of perfection and poetry you've ever seen.. Much like this song.
25. A -Cartel
And remember every foolish escapade and drunken evening along the way. I know.. Slip on that first hoodie and head down to the bar for one more...

The Insubordinate Mixtape

2009-06-30T21:41:00.000-07:00

Breaking the rules, Merman Style.

Don't even start with me this week. Chances are:

1) I won't have a single entertaining thing to say, and

2) I'll erroneously assume you knew about the past 3 days I've had and I'll go Battle Royal on your ass.

Have you ever had a week where you start off mischievously rebellious...and end up with a list of slipshod accomplishments and a docket that looks not unlike Mulberry's Mishap Manifesto? Not familiar with it? Oh, here!

2 busted knees.

In hindsight, maybe wearing kneepads ONCE during a volleyball season would have helped.

At least, that's what I thought when the blood was streaming down my shins.

Tuesday: It's not Sunday!

(and it's safe to consider that maybe, you should have gone into work 2 hours ago)

Apartment keys are FOR WANKERS.

Especially those who have gross negligence to the fact that you can't unlock a door in Astoria FROM NEW JERSEY.

The myth of the 8 hour work day:

Let us please make it 10! And not. complete. a. single. thing.

Dear client, please sign over 14 million on my faulty contract, cheers!

Your welcome, Madoff.

Hygiene says wha?

In light of my Tuesday/Sunday mix up, I successfully evaded 3 days worth of dreadfully cleansing showers.

Anyway, in the spirit of completely and ever so eloquently fucking up my own universe this week, I've decided to make a mixtape that also ignores most benchmarks for any sort of merit or logic. Well, except the music won't actually suck.

But Hayley! It's so good! What ever could be wrong with it?

Using the most generic compilation artwork, ever.
Mixing opposing genres indie, pop, hip hop, nerdcore. That's cool, right? Oh shut-up. It's not even graceful.
2 of the same artists back to back.
The last song is actually just tacked on my mistake, and I don't even like it that much.
ZERO transition. And too many songs.
Repeat offenders/ obviously stolen songs from friends' playlists.
Revealing that little/no effort went into song choice/order/blog as a whole this week!

....and can I JUST say, if I hear the phrase "Audio Confectionary Treat" ONE more time this week. WHO SAYS THAT?

Love,

Miffed' Merman.

Post-Bonnum Depression

2009-06-19T07:19:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've made a mix. And my ear pipes are kinda clogged up with weeks worth of hoarding harmonious tunes. After my last Dickens-worthy post, I couldn't take the brain activity anymore. I ducked out of NYC for a redneck tour of Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Tennesee. Which included Bonnaroo... (Life changing post on that to follow soon...) However, no theme today. Just some really, really good albums. I could think of something witty and cute to make you listen, but you really just owe it to yourself to listen to these albums.

Passion Pit - Manners

This album is an NYC summer neatly packaged into cellophane wrapper. Just get up and dance your ass off. Or, for you rural folk with cars and such, pick a sunny Saturday afternoon and blast generously. I recommend Little Secrets & Moth's Wings & Sleepyhead

The Grizzly Bears - Veckatimest

This Album is absolutely phenomenal. Really, up and coming indie bands: just try a job in finance for now. You'll have better luck competing in that industry with Grizzly Bear's Veckatimest on the market. If you ever wondered what the Beach Boy's might sound like if they got their start in New York in 2009, listen to two weeks

The Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca

Genre bending vocal virtuoso delight. Every song sounds like it could be from a completely different music universe. With, of course, their trademark of surprisingly pleasant trainwhistle harmonies and haunting strings mixed effortlessly with a little wishbone, and a little backbone. Go for Cannible Resource & Stillness is the move.

Iron & Wine - Around the well

My God. It's just so good. Folk. Hot tub listening. The Second coming of Christ. Whatever. Just listen to the Trapeze Swinger & Love Vigilantes. Heart rate? Down. Heartstrings? Pulled.

Kiss Kiss - The meek shall Inherit whats left

... well it's not out yet. But you should surely education yourself by listening to their 2007 album, Reality Vs. The Optimist

I fully endorse Says my Doctor and Satellite to get you started. They've got a theatrical set of balls. And I like it.

The Decemberists - The Hazards of Love

The Decemberists gave me a gift that I don't think any other band has given me. True, honest to fucking blog goosebumps all over at a live show. While I was initially on the fence about the alternative cornerstone, their live performance of The Hazards of Love toe to tip at Bonnaroo was by far the best concert experience I've ever had. Some like moshing, some like to expand their minds in every way shape and form during a show, but I just want to music to move me. This show reminded me of the pure unadulteration joy of music, sans any other concert attractions. Listen to The Wanting comes in waves & isn't it a lovely night. Make sure you've got some good headphones, sit down at a nice spot in the park on an early warm evening, and enjoy.

Fanfarlo - Resevoir

If you like any of the previous music listed here, and you've yet to know Fanfarlo, don't worry. It's only a matter of time until they blow the folk up right in your face. This is the best British (I think?) album that I've heard in a long time. Check Harold T Wilkins, or how to wait a long time.

The Merman Memorial Day Mix

2009-05-20T21:44:00.000-07:00

So I wake up and it goes like this...5:30 am: Run. Shower. Breakfast. 11 minute walk to the station. 25 minutes N Train. 13 Minutes 1 train to W Houston Street. 2 minutes from the subway stop to the 4th floor.

Every morning I fashion my own personal assembly line, to most efficiently and effectively get my busted ass collected before a 10 hour work day. Most days I find that each new blip on my iPod makes the daily traipse a little easier. This week I hit shuffle on my library and collected the 1st 600 songs that came up, and in particular this week had as an 88mph Delorian effect over me. There I am on the N train... and like one of those really bad Soap Opera running-out-of-storylines-previous-life flashback episodes... I'm right back in Ohio, sitting on my riverbank on the last day of school. Or, driving around Huntington on a warm Sunday afternoon sunning off a hangover.

So if I wanted to go, where everyone knew my name... I guess these are the bastards I'd like to see there. And this mixtape goes to you. Memorial Day A la Mulberry.

1. Apple Shampoo - Blink 182

2. Cheek to Cheek - Starting Line

So, you, little sex muffin, have been my best friend since our super awkward pre-pubescent break up in 2000. Every time Apple Shampoo graces my buds in the morning, I think of making Crillin42@hotmail.com and sitting on the picnic table talking about all the things guys and girls aren't supposed to talk about. I really kind of don't know how to handle being without my OpBrah, and wasting too much time with Wall bound LOL cats caught on camera ... and most of all: Christopher Lewis Meinheart.

3. Don't Stop Believin- Journey
Beside the fact that we have a borderline connubial relationship with one another, you really have been the best friend to me over the past year... and probably longer. Also, I don't think someone has ever physically made me pee my pants the way you do. Yeah. You make me pee myself. That's love, bitch. While this ditty might be the SJS FO' LIFE MAH FUCKA anthem... My heart exclusively longs for our debauched howling attempts at Steve Perry's highest. Can we please talk about Duck faces? And slapping each others faces off our faces?...and Ernest Mystic Tanning?

4. Mixin' up adjectives - This is me Smiling

5. Do the Panic - Phantom Planet

6. Evil - Interpol

7. Jon Brion - Row

I think it's safe to safe I can use my favorite analogy for feelings when it comes to you. They're like Fish hooks. I pick one up, and they all come tumblin' out. We've had some Shitsqualls, but more precious moments of psuedopsychology. And for some reason you're stillllll nice to me. Strange. I guess two assholes really can get a long. And the fact that we have the music compatibility of Jesus Mary and Joseph doesn't hurt either. I miss kicking you out of my apartment....and drinking SoCo and lime out on my patio until 5am... while the Malloyopolis above you falls asleep on my couch at TEN PM.

8. Jacksonville - Sufjan Stevens

Every time I hear this song I think of riding down 4th avenue in your car with the warm air flowing through my fingertips; trying so desperately to remember the night before. Very few housemate situations ever end nicely, but I think ours was a complete and total seraphic experience. I'll miss your stupid black velvet couch, complete with built in cassette player, every day. I might miss you as well, but I'm still trying to figure out if it's actually you, watching Weeds, wine on the back porch, or if it's just poor judgement from all the Speedy Dogs.

9. Heretics - Andrew Bird

10. Good Day - Tally Hall

11. ELO - Mr. Bluesky

I think 'tis safe to safe that roughly 1/5th of the shuffle reminds me of you, but these seemed most fitting. That is only because I'm reserving the vast amounts of the Griffin McElroy Echo Reserve for another mixtape and another day. Oh, how I miss your creativity, completely unburdened by sanity... I only have one, long sentence for you, Sir. The combination of your existence, Mr. Minkser, Rockband marathons, coffee thievery, pitchers of rubbing alcohol and coke combined with bacchanalian interpretive dance (per Jesse Clark's not at all redundant boogie night convolution), Sorkin soaked TV marathons, Eternal Darkness, and the constant pursuit of Joystiq worthy adjectives... my summer, and subsequent sanity, was fully reinstated. I just want to hear you sing, "Bra-AAAAA-DLY WHIT-ford!" one more time.

12. Kylie from Connecticut - Ben Folds
13. Falling Slowly - The Frames

14. Crossing Boundaries - NPR
For anyone who doesn't know, Mr. Minsker is, indeed, the Herman Merman to My Mulberry moniker. We also have a Bassit Hound, Sherman Merman, complete with a monocle and foppish demeanour. Intially you were my advtising antagonist, and then I realized you were the Yin to mah Yang. While I fluttered in an out of campaigns, you kept the internal team motivated. Salutations, comrade! Oh, and we both have approximately 95 year old souls. I could really go for one of those Sailor Jerry saturated NPR evenings overlooking the river...with our Rainmain Griffin. I even miss falling alseep mid-Casablanca, for the 3rd time in a row.

15. Mexico - Jump, Little Children
Sometimes there are friends in this world that just know how to make you feel 100% better. In your case it was quite simple; requiring only a smily face caesar salad and a spoon of DooDoo. Okay, maybe it was more of your kind temperament and complete judgement-free faith you have in me... but we'll go with the Doo Doo. While you did provide me with Jump's complete discography, every time I hear Mexico I think of you. My calm among many storms. With the exception of one of your sunny side up elbows, you are definitely the smartest, most level headed chef this side of the Mississippi.

16. Could you be loved - Bob Marley

17. Digital Love - Daft Punk

While I'm sure Joe will undoubtedly dispute that Daft Punk should DEFINITELY remind me of him... all I can think of is us sitting in a Gulf Shores time share with a bottomless canteen of Hurricanes, and you singing both of these songs at the top of your lungs. For someone whom I've hung out with a handful of times in my life, you definitely have made your impression, and the extra 9.5 hours between us is visible. It doesn't even matter that I only saw you once every 6 months anyway. Out of all the friends I know are coming to New York soon, you, my friend, are the only one I'm willing to risk jail time for. Just sayin'....

18. Sleep - Copeland

My lonely fellow Copeland fan. Sean you are the epitome of a perfect gentleman. And your kind, by definition, is extinct in New York. No joke! I don't think you realize just how much I miss your laughter (I mean come on! Who wouldn't miss that Guffaw!?) and your kind spirit. You were definitely my spiritual guru of the house. There was nothing you weren't excited about, but you were especially fond Jesus and Marshall Football. No matter what, you had the words... and the tunes! So keep up the good work and come bring some of your rays of sunshine to the Big Apple.

19. No Sleep till Brooklyn - Beastie Boys

Oh how I miss your hemisphere of platinum blonde, pseudo boxing around on the Echo dance floor. Every time I hear this little jig it reminds me of roughly 2:30 am at Echo. Everyone drenched in sweat and old pitchers of rum. We hear the guitar riff, and from whatever conversation about grappling you where in, you burst out on the floor just in time for the first fist pumping chorus line. From that moment I knew we were destined to eat 4am pancake feasts and save evil black cats from any normal domestication.

20. We Like to Party - Venga Boys

21. Have you really ever loved a woman? - Brian Adams

Sorry Hilbill. Had to pick the stupid songs I could think of in your case. Mainly because whenever I hear them, they make me laugh and miss you like crazy. You used to get so very mad at me when I'd play the Venga boys tape over and over. And your little 12 yr old heart would swoon when you heard when you really love a woman. I always got on your ass about your music selection reflecting your romances... but these are TOTALLY and complete just you :). Also, honorable mention includes Michelle Branch - just see you (?) in honor of our equally embarrassing White Chicks obsession.

22. Send me on my way - Rusted Root

Oh Brother! There is nothing I can say about you that can be any more fitting than this song. I admired you so much for your jovial disposition and fearlessness to say anything. And the fact that no matter where I went in the Tri-state area EVERYONE knew who you were. Everyone! It was ridiculous. Gee Thanks! ...For making it impossible to be the coolest Keller in the family. Even though we didn't grow up in the same house, we've always had a secret evil sibling bond. Jamie and Hilary were the kind hearted sweeties, and you and I? Well... we were kind of assholes. But hey, the funny kind that get away with it! Love you brother.

23. Lets Make this moment a crime - The Format

24. Body Bag - Hit the Lights

It's kind of weird.... It's been more than 5 days since your last "You are Beautiful!" text... and I am noticeably disheveled. If there is one thing I know about your diaper wearin' whiskey lovin' ass, it's that what you play and what you listen to are entirely different. On stage, there you are with your sleeve of hardass tat's, screaming your balls off and throwing spit and sweat into the mosh pit; and then you hop in your Scion to the tender hearts of The Format or Glen Hansard. You're a big teddy bear trapped in a rocker's bod, aren'tcha dear? My memories of you and The Hyamp are eternally intertwined, so it only seams natural for me to think of you whenever I hear Hit The Lights, my all time favorite Huntington venue experience. Oh, and YOU are beautiful!

25. Great DJ - The Ting Tings

I think we both know why this is your song! After only having the Ting Tings for 6 months after the release date... I turned it in my the skin of my teeth. I miss you my fellow fearless female Snob rocker!

26. Falling in love - McFly
27. When you come back down - Nicklecreek

I know, I know! No Hilary Duff? Sorry. No matter how much I love you, I will NEVER, ever put her on my mixtapes! However, I was walking down St. Marks the other day, and I kid you not. What do I hear? MCFLY! I had a moment of silence for you. Throughout college, we WERE the odd couple. You were my best friend throughout missed morning shows, botched concert attempts, stupid boyfriends, and of course, spilled apple juice. Now... if I can just answer my phone for podcasts....

28. Aqueous Transmission - Incubus

9th grade: ICQ: Eggy: Will you go to my senior prom with me? (Note: circa 2000) Winks182: Omg! Yes! ... and thus our friendship began. It's funny that I have more fond memories of St. Joe high school friends than I do my own Alma Mater. You were definitely one of the first to pave the way. i'll never forget the first time I came to your 4th of July party in 8th grade; you were the home skillet, Ryan was the homefry, and I was the Tater tot. I don't know if you remember, but this was the song playing when you picked me up for prom. It was the first time I remember liking Incubus, and I'm still kind of baffled and disturbed as to why I remember that. Or any of this for that matter. You are expressly, far and above, my favorite St. Joe jerkface.

29. Better of dead - New Found Glory

Hey Aaron! A boy and a girl went to school. (Elbow jab.) Roughly 75% of the things that make us laugh are foreign concepts to anyone else. All I know is that you were my best girlfriend since 1st grade when we started raising hell at Haverhill United Methodist church. So, with that, I only have one thing to say: Let us hold a moment of silence for our fellow Grasshopper. He was such a good bug.

30. Story of my life - Social Distortion

31. Where does the good go - tegan and sarah
1.HILDALGO! 2. MEL C FELL! 3. MEL C FELL! AHHH! I don't know if there will ever be a better match made in hell than us. Throughout school you were one of the 2% of girls that I actually liked, even when were were feuding about Riverdays sucker campaign tactics. Oh how I miss yelling during YMC at the top of my lungs at Ryan Holbrook with you. No matter how crazy you feel, and no matter how far away you are, I'm pretty sure you'll still be my favorite punk rockin' lady.

32. A milli - Lil Wayne
"Young Jeezy speaks to my soul." Really Alex? Really? I don't know how. And I don't exactly know why, but you have become of of those life-timer friends. Even though our musical tastes are monstrously opposite. And you make fun of my wrist slitting, patchouli/angst incensed club Echo. AND I've physically had to prevent you from cussing out all your girl friends. Sigh, what can I say, you're my little social butterfly. How can I not respect someone who takes impromptu weekend trips to Orlando with no agenda but to make as many friends as possible? That's my kinda man.

33. What's a girl to do? - Bat for Lashes
Albert. I'm sorry Chelsea Handler just isn't cutting it. Despite your scarily similar senses of humor, her show combined with repeated viewings of Juno can never replace you. ... And huffing my Strawberry daiquiri body spray is becoming quite disturbing. Question: Do you remember when we memorized our AIM pitch via jumping on hotel beds? Because I have yet to find a more invigorating memorization technique. But really? I miss your face. and your musk. And most of all, your MEOW.

34. Aliens Exist - Blink 182
Emiloo, Emili, Emilee, Emilow, Emlew! This has officially been the longest amount of time I have gone without smearing body lotion on your face or messing up your perfect tresses... and I'm pretty cheesed off about it. You are literally the only person whom I've peed my pants around. Oh. Wait, thats not true at all. However, you are the only person whom I have shared all of life's awkward ordeals with. And really bad Halloween costumes. And. Well. Pretty much everything. What the hell are you going to do anyway when you and Dodson go to the courthouse to get that marriage certificate and you realize I've already married us legally in the state of Vermont? And I'm not givin' us up lady!

35. Poker Face - Lady Gaga
Oh Benjy, why are you so beautiful? I think the first time I saw you in person my skin literally melted off my face. Whenever I grace all my gal pals with the presence of your pictures (which I frequently do to 1) Show off 2) well, just show off) we turn into the Tiger Beat OMGLIKEWHOA hot boy of the month fan club. But with all that aside, I'm so very glad it was you who I found on Craiglist instead of that med school Boston jerk who keeps killin' all those ladies. Shew! I'm glad I wasn't offering massages either. This song will forever remind me of your beautiful face, and maybe a little of that shuffle shuffle kick ball change, turn, step, arabesque!

36. The Missing Piece - Forgive Durden
37. Hey Momma - Kay Kay and his Weathered underground

You know Mark? The first time we held a conversation about music, I went home and quickly informed every single person I knew that I had, indeed, met my musical soul mate. The stars aligned. The birds sang. The angels literally came down from the heavens and kissed me on the face. And then you made me listen to Foxy Shazam. Really Mark?! The image was then shattered. However, you did make quite a theatrical impression on my CD library. And a huge dent in my popsicle supply. While we hardly speak, there is one thing I've been meaning to tell you, "RANCH, LISA!" Sigh.. I miss your precious soul!

38. Hands Down - Dashboard confessional

From the moment I decided to invite myself to the single most important historical event in our generation's history over a game of beer pong, I knew we were destined to share half thought out amazing experiences together. I had the MOST amount of awesome going to D.C. with you, and sharing witness to the 1st annual midnight white house egghunt. Not to mention, hope coming out of one's ass should always be shared with a friend. If at one point in time we had been given physical proximity, based on your iPod repertoire intoxicant consumption preferences, I think there is definite potential for a great friendship.

39. Valentine - The Get Up Kids

Hacky Sack King? Video Game connoiseur? Pioneer of Purple Rain? Is there anything you can't do? For some reason, every single conversation ever brought up around Bobby Glasser has ld to his inexorable expertise on the subject. And I kind of like it! Bobby you will never know how much I miss your sassy pants dancing at Echo, or Bobby G. Passout 5000 after a night of too much hot tub and booze. So, please get out of Parkersburg for 2 seconds and come visit.

40. The 59 sound - Gaslight Anthem

If someone would have told me that I moved 700 miles away from home to the biggest city in the world, only to find my personality equivalent, well, I wouldn't have believed them until I met you. And frankly? I'm really not sure if the world's ready for it. It is also invariably unlikely that I would get a long so well with said counterpart. I see a beautiful future filled with Soy Chai, rock concerts, and haphazardly offending Ms. Rathburn. Okay, maybe more premeditated not so much haphazard, but equally funny.

41. I'm Ok, You're Ok - MXPX

42. Barlow Girls - Superchic[k]
Because most of my adult life you have been 2 peas in a pod, I figured any music memory I have of one of you, will inadvertently remind me of the other. Laurie and Ash. Stinky and Smelly. I don't know what I would do at family functions without you! Probably not listen to nearly as much cool music. Probably more Rusted Root and Phish, wouldn't you agree? All I know is that my mood unquestionably improves around you two, so I think it's time for MBT to have a brief stint in NYC.

43. October Nights - Yellowcard
44. San Dimas High School Football Rules - The Ataris

When I'm feeling particularly nostalgic, my thoughts always return to you. And for the first time in, oh, 8 years I can actually listen to San Dimas without a visceral pain in my heart. With only a handful of trips under our belt, throughout countless break ups & phone calls, and roughly 1,200 miles between us, I'm still 75%-82% fond of you. Hey, in the future let's have more mornings laying around listening to Zolof and the rock n rock destroyer and less 2 year stretches of absence. Okay? Sassafras!

Now... if all of you were curious... YES. I miss you.

Love,

Mulberry

Stalk = success?

2009-05-11T19:31:00.000-07:00

So the first milestone of successfully acquiring a stalker has been achieved. I've noticed that there are 3 main things to observe about men in nyc:

Number 1! Check the hand, are you married? No? Oh, well then...

Number 2! Are you gay? Are you European? This may seem like two questions, but they are surprisingly easy to confuse. No? ...

Well, if you are niether of those things then you are DEFINITELY ignoring me or you are.... you guessed it!

Number 3!: A STALKER. (score!)

Oh, honey how I'll remember those late nights that you "Had to take the N train uptown to get to Staten Island" and all those cute moments where you show up 3 hours before you have to, just to come slap me on the ass and prod my for information.

So here's to you, My knight in shining putrescence. Our first song.. You'll be right at the top of my list for mixtape monday, baby. We're still on for Friday right? First my front yard bushes, then later at the police station??

1. Passenger - Night Vision Binoculars

2. Madlib - Mystic Bounce

3. Nouvelle Vague - Love will tear us apart (cover)

4. Frightened Rabbit - Good arms v. Bad arms

5. Mr Sunshine & the family band - the apple parade

6. Sharam - She came along (feat. kid Cudi)

7. Passion Pit - Moth's wings

8. Pomplamoose - La Vie en Rose

9. Shugo Tokumaru - Green Rain

10. Dr. Dog - Heart it races (Architecture in Helsinki cover)

11. Gaslight anthem - 59 sound

12. Minus the Bear - Knights

Bah! Its not even monday anymore...but if you click on the title of this post you can have this very cool mix all in one.. I'm still learning, AIGHT!?

A Hallmark Mulberry Monday

2009-05-02T21:25:00.000-07:00

Last night was my first 8+ hour sleep session since moving, and it was followed only by more small comas throughout the day. The verdict? I had enough of those in my post college purgatory in the 3 excruciating months between commencement and employment. No thanks! Laying there in my bed reminded me of all the nights I stayed up past 3, accomplishing nothing during the dayparts, thinking of all those somedays that were supposed to be happening. Now they are. Today is someday. Pretty awesome thought. From last June until now I have had the best times of my life, the worst times of my life, and the beginning of the rest of my life. Lets see, I've had complete shenanigans with some incredible people:

Witnessed history...

Got an AMAZING job...

And I live in the greatest city in the world...

These kinds of days make me want to live the width of my life, not just the length of it.

A couple of years ago, there was a little girl. She was the young mischievous type; a little too poor to fit in, and a little too outspoken for her own good. But, God, did she know how to love. She spent her adolescence caring for her family, and the rest of her life doing much of the same thing. She opened her mind, her heart, and her soul to 7 children, one lost, 1 husband and a slough of grandchildren. She didn't get to see Ireland. She didn't get to drive a car. She didn't get to have a career. But what she did have was some kind of unconditional love that few people are capable of understanding, let alone giving. This little girl spent her whole life loving others, with the kind of passion and dedication most only reserve for themselves. Now she gets to sit on a sunny river bank, rocking back and forth in her chair, experiencing passing moments of clarity over her life and her family. She gets to look back and enjoy the fruits of her labor, safe in the arms of her daughter. And her outer appearance is purely amazing. Every wrinkle earned. Every scar a story. But no matter how many years are upon her, anyone who meets her is still greeted by that same little girl, that same innocence and fervor for life, that same sparkle of unconditional love, and that same trademark bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck....

So Mamaw, this is to you:

I would rather be ashes than dust; I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot; I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in a magnificent glow than in a sleep and permanent planet; the proper function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. I shall USE my time. - Jack London

You used yours, so that I could wake up to all of this...

Happy Mother's Day, I hope I can make you proud,

Love

Ruthie.

Oh, and a mixtape monday just for you.

1. Who loves you - Franki Valli

2. God only knows - The Beach Boys

2. Dear Bobbie - Yellowcard

3. Don't worry, be happy - Bobby McFerrin

4. Vi Spilum endalaust - Sigur Ros

5. Aint no mountain high enough - marvin gaye

Settling in

2009-04-28T20:29:00.000-07:00

So I got this book today in a thrift shop, Lost words of love.... I was actually looking for a flower pot. You know, for my plant:

Anyway, I was about to pick up a modestly ugly looking Marymuff.a when I spotted it. Words in our English vocabulary that have become lost through time...BORING? No, not when my sweetheart can say I'm "foading and asks me to unpucker in the the sky parlor." Which, of course, in today's evolved language means, "Hey, I think you're HOT. Let's get loose and go do it in the attic." Okay. Maybe I'm a word geek. But I'll also be able to use the terms dream-hole.b, fatiloquist.c, and and Piss-prophet.d correctly.

So, my next lovelorn letter might sound like:

Dear Millicent Aimcrier,(modern day dr. phil)

my quest monger's.1 flesh spades.2 are always clarity.3. No matter how matter how tactful I try to be, whenever I mention this to him, he works himself into faires.4 and won't listen to me and his murffles.5 flair up. How can I get him to clean up his act and stop being so carked.6?

Thrunched.7,

Hayley

It might sound a little droll, but now I won't have to worry about those West Village New York Clambersculls.8 or Constupration.9

A lot of words have little to do with love, but many of these smoozles.13 were found in 16th and 17th century love letters...and there are plenty of letters, playlets, and poems in the book that would send any modern day lover a runnin' far far away.

But I digress,

Now lets Frik.10 it up!

No fried shirts.11, and gimme a smick.12!

Love,

Mulberry

As always.. I may not have something good to say, but I always have something great to listen to...Good summer jigs for your new vocab lessons in love, and my new adventures on Varick St in NYC.

1. Fun - At least I'm not as sad as I used to be

2. Flogging Molly - If I ever leave this world alive

3. Slaid Cleaves - Cry

4. Sufjan Stevens - Put the lights on the tree (pocketknif'es radioshack remix)

5. It's only you (part II) - Salem Al Fakir

a. an old keepsake pot or pipe

b an opening in barns, towers, or steeples to let air, light, and sound to pass through

c a fortuneteller

d a person who diagnosed diseases by inspective urine, aka a water caster, see also R Kelly.

1 boyfriend

2 fingernails

3 dirty

4 a lovers fit

5 freckles

6 pissed and weird

7 annoyed

8a very strong ale

9 rape, never fun.

10 Dance to lively music

11 starched button ups

12 kisses :)

13 cuddlies

Mixtape Monday

2009-04-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

And this is the only good picture I have of new york...so far

Yep. Monday is my new favorite day....

I recently moved to New York from Huntington WV. I spend A LOT of time listening to new music, and it seems like I'm holding very hard to my roots lately... Today sort of reminded me of something " The truth knocks at the door, and you say 'Go away, I'm looking for the truth' and so it goes away. Puzzling." Sometimes the best things about our lives are right there in front of us and we just push it away.... Luckily, I have an iPod. Therefore I have a little bit of home in my buds at all times. This week I'll show those Brooklyn hipsters a thing, or 22....and every monday is a mixtape. Enjoyz....

Inauguration 2009

2009-02-02T09:48:00.000-08:00

Life changing events. A lot come unexpectedly. Others have been planned years in advance. And sometimes, it's hard to tell if it's the planning, the surprise, or just a current mentality that brings the transformation. Wherever the truth may be in that philosophy, it will undoubtedly bring forth a new state of mind. Mine arrived shortly after Noon, On January 20th, 2008.

I was standing in a crowd of roughly 2 million, braving Nordic wind gusts, knowing I would be there for at least 12 more hours. Barack Hussein Obama was sworn in as the 44th President of the United States of America, and I invited myself to this illustrious event over a game of beer pong, just two days before.

You see, being freshly graduated from college brings forth a set of rather attractive benefits. In this pleasant purgatory between college and professional life, there is a blissful absence of any real responsibility, purpose, or motivation. Considering our extreme economic crisis, a record high unemployment rate, and my top-notch career selection in advertising, full advantage of said purgatory was taken. It really, truly was one of the best decisions of my life. Being in a standstill state of mind allowed me to watch my country move forward. It wasn't just an inauguration; it was a celebration for everyone. Every race. Every creed. Every citizen. January 20th marked a step in the right direction, and seeing it first hand assured me that we were all taking it together. I have the fist bumps to prove it.

Everyone has a different version of history, and America has definitely had a fair share of CNN/MSNBC/ABC coverage of Obama's inauguration. This account, however, is a mere flash of the big day from an extremely poor, 22 year old college graduate, who has hope coming out of her ass for her country, and its new state of mind.

After asking a relative stranger if I could join him in his travels to Washington D.C., and made an almost frighteningly fast phone call to another friend, who was planning the trip. The plan was set in motion; I was to go to the inauguration with two strangers, which, if you ask me, is all part of the fun. That is until I find a sack of lime and an axe in the trunk of the car, but I digress. After driving all night on a steady IV drip of Red Bull, we arrived at the house of J Sean, a post-fraternity nest nursing at least 6 brothers who were kind enough to lend their plethora of couches. Sleeping only enough to not pass out at the Washington Monument, we gathered ourselves and took the metro into the city.

Warmth was not the first word that comes to mind on a balmy 20 degree D.C. evening, but it was surprisingly the first thing felt as we emerged on the streets. The city was already buzzing, a feeling comparable to Times Square on News Years Eve. Lining the inaugural parade route already were news crews, spectators much like ourselves taking in the night, locals trying to give the best deal on political memorabilia, street vendors, performers, and freestyle rappers. While there was a steady flow of police traffic, everyone was uncannily optimistic, and it rubbed off quick.

We outlined the city that night. Down Pennsylvania Avenue, to the Washington Monument, through the 1st annual nocturnal Easter egg hunt (Later on I was told these were city volunteers, picking up litter of the high volumes of people, I think not), down to the Lincoln memorial. There were hoards of people everywhere already. And at the end of a very long first night, I didn't care that my hands were numb, or that there was a good chance of blood filling my shoes from our expedition, the city bursting at the seams with people filled with exhilaration. It was like finding the center of the world on complete accident, and it was hard to tell just how much more energized the American people could get by Tuesday.

Monday came and went far too slowly, but we did meet even more people who had come from across the country to see Barack Obama be sworn in. We talked to college kids from Chicago, a retired teacher from Georgia, and a group from Canada who was finally proud to be physically attached to our previously questionable purple mountains of majesty. However, we did meet Will. I. Am. (Yes, the guy from the Black Eyed Peas) outside of the Smithsonian, and he assured us, Yes, we actually can.

It's 4:15 a.m. After two days of virtually no sleep and embarrassingly high amounts of excitement, our trio resembled a foppish group of toddlers who have tried desperately to dress themselves for Santa on Christmas.

We didn't care; Barack would be cool with it. Sadly, we weren't the most excited persons on the train. Someone actually passed out on the way into the capitol. Show off.

By 5 a.m. we were among herds of really, really excited cattle, and slipped our way into the National Mall with a tour group, guided by men and women in red jumpsuits. There was a Bonnarific atmosphere, by which I do not mean concerts and marijuana, but rather an unbreakable comraderous spirit. And in those few square miles of land inside the National Mall represented a microcosm of the American people. Diverse. Hopefully. Energetic. Together. It was the very first time I felt that no matter the color of anyone's skin, we as an American population were willing to work together. In that piece of land outside the capitol building were people from across the country and the world. Every race, all calm and collected, and eternally excited for the next couple of hours.

Sure, we were numb, frozen to the core, and the steam rising from the breath of 2 million looked not unlike a 420 festival. We waited together, sharing stories of how we got there, listening to celebrity speeches until the moment came. Aretha sang, be bowed our heads for a moment, and rose them to a new President. The chants of "OBAMA!" were deafening around us, and we were three among a sea of waving American flags. Sadly, we were the only three people of 2 million who cheered like fools for John Williams (Emperial March. come on, people!) But that didn't matter. We had just witnessed history, and it was worth it all.

For the first time, optimism filled the hearts of our population instead of shame and doubt. For the first time, I felt that there was hope in a leader, and that a new state of mind from a group of people is more important and has more impact than any piece of legislation could ever have. I felt like my campaigning had mattered after all. For a couple of days in my very young history, I felt hope in a way I've never felt in my heart. I felt as if I was a part of something that mattered, a witness to world history, a participant in change. On January 20th, I felt hope that my generation isn't lost to apathy and X Box, but that we have a stake in our country, and a leader willing to listen. What will happen in the next four years is hard to tell. But it only took a few short days to change my state of mind... So much for the planning philosophy behind life changing events.

Music for 2009

2009-01-28T10:12:00.000-08:00

While attempting to make a list of every band I've ever loved, I often get distracted by daily unearthing in my musical endeavors. And in writing. And, well, with most other things. I've seen my taste for music go from a solid distaste for anything that was NOT punk rock, to including nerdcore, new wave bluegrass and, of course, techno-goth pop. 2009, however, brings a freshly discovered open mindedness to me, with disregard to my previous genre snobbery. I think it's definitely a year of hope, and a couple of other things. That true musicianship isn't gone, you can seriously, seriously love music, and still have fun with it, and that sometimes old ideas in a new light is just what you need. With that said, I suggest to you my January neurosis of music:

Some are new discoveries, others are old favorites, but for the most part, these artists will most likely be buzzing my audio meatus this month...

Andrew Bird - Noble Beast. Please do yourself a favor of freshly picked Violin virtuoso combined with prodigal whistling and and ever present optimism in simplicity.

Bag Raiders - Feel good techno. No raves, X, or sweaty German men about it.

Beirut - Along the lines of the aforementioned Birdman, however sub an accordion, a slightly docile hook, and an epic disposition .

The Bowerbirds - NC based band that are self described acoustic Americana. I can agree with that. They seem to not mourn the fact that they are musicians, Kudos!

Brazilian Girls - Throw caution to the wind and any sexual preference that may go with it, because you'll definitely be dancing like a tipsy Tri Sigma on Homecoming night after you hear "Good Time". It's a fuckin good time.

Call Florence Pow - This was the Nerdcore I was talking about. If you ever tried your damnedest to dominate Mario brothers on your key-tar, I'm sorry, you will literally wet yourself when you listen to these guys. It's like every late 80's video game went to a mixer with the Mormon Tabernacle choir and made some babies.

The Cars - Maybe it's Echo nights, or maybe I just remember them being really fucking awesome.

Christopher O'Riley - Everytime I heard slight hints of major chords fluttering over tiny compy speakers from across the room, I have to ask who it is. Upon further investigation, this guy is good. Beautiful, even.

Dear & The Headlights - Refreshingly original acoustic alternative, mixed with a little pop, and carelessness toward defining which genre they'd like to belong to...

Fleetfoxes - Just go to Hulu.com and watch their SNL appearance, you'll understand.

Gary Jules - Wow. Why didn't I listen to him sooner? Remember that Gears of War commercial that caught you off-guard when Marcus Fenix is slaughtering COG's to a soothing piano cover of a song you think you almost know? Yeah. It's this guy. And listen to Bluefish.

The Gaslight Anthem - Rock your face good stuff. Go grab a skateboard and some Chucks, please.

Girl Talk - I could make this an entirely separate post, but I might embarrass myself by the extent to which I freak out like a tween and a Jonas Brothers concert every time I hear Feed The Animals. Do you like oldies? Rap? Hip Hop? Techno? Hardcore rock? Alternative? Not any of them? Oh well, you'll like this biomedical engineer turned mash up DJ and producer. The flawlessness to his craft is both enviable and genius. Oh, and my mother and I can listen to the same CD that I could also play at a house rave or roadtrip.

The Go! Team - Hipster alternative remix music with a hint of the Fox & The Hound and the Bronx Children's choir? Yes. I think so. Also, Media Molecule (I've been told it's some soft of video game developer?) decided that The Go! Team's enlivening innocence would be a good theme song for their puzzle platformer, Little Big Planet. If you've played the game, or heard their music, you'd agree.

The Great Fiction - It's about as pop culture as I'm getting this month, but this band was featured on the Invisible soundtrack. Although being devoid of a good plot, the soundtrack introduced me to some pretty good bands, this being one of them.

Harvey Danger - Whenever you need witty lyrics, a 1990's state of mind, and something you know your Nickelback loving friends would HATE, put this in... yum.

Iron horse - It's bluegrass, and it's good. Not much more to say, though I may be biased, I usually get to enjoy it overlooking a river while sitting in a hot tub.

Islands - Genre: other. If you enjoy archaic new wave alt pop, please bless your little adventurous heart and ignore my botched attempt to describe this band. Go fill your playlist with 'Where there's a will there's a whalebone', Rough Gem, and Creeper.

Jump, Little Children - Charleston, SC based band, swoon. May have opened for the Gin Blossoms at one point (just guessing...). While they are not still together, I hope one day they will serenade me with By the way they dance, in person. Also good a track: Mexico.

Justice - D.A.N.C.E: do it. 1 2 3 4 5.

Kay Kay & His Weathered Underground - Indie folk with a flair for theatrics, honky tonk pianos, and genuinely jamborific confidence in telling a story with a song.

The Long Winters - Quite the panty dropping band. If you're a struggling lonesome with your heart set on a struggling artistic(ish) barista/actress, ditch the Say Anything standard and pop Cinnamon on your mixtape. Ching! you'll see that tramp stamp in no time.

MGMT - Yet another unknown varmint that blew up, while still remaining slightly underground (Not unlike tremors, not in popularity, in, like, below the surface fracas...ahh nevermind) Synthetic groovy beats. Beegee appeal vox. I'm just doing a terrible job describing this one aren't I? Check out Time to Pretend and Electric feel.

Norfolk & Western - Could possibly see this band at a local musician showcase, but there is a NPR Crossing Boundaries quality that I can't avoid. Illegally download the new Rise of labor and start from there.

Of Montreal - An old standard that has an uncanny ability to complete smooth transitions in my mixes of new music. Aces. If you like Minus the bear and Daft Punk, they may not sound similar, but I bet you like Of Montreal too...

Okkervil River - I'd really like to see them perform with Ben Folds. Or Beirut? Or both! Cat's pajamas. Their ability to write heartfelt lyrics and riffs that aren't butt rock make their sincerity shine through. Could be comparable to the Killers, if the Killers were from Seattle or Chicago, instead of Las Vegas.

Ra Ra Riot - A band I discovered while in New York, which is appropriate if you ask me. Smooth listening that incorporates the Kooks vocals timbre and a decemberistness... Not a word. Using it anyway. Listen to 'Can you Tell'.

Ratatat - Thank you, white boy mixes of r&b and techno (used loosely) to created very DJ friendly dance beats. They will inevitably end up collaborating with Timbaland. I shutter at the thought.

RJD2 - Soon to hit every automobile (Esp. Cadillac) commercial, but in the mean time: Children! Scramble to buy Deadringer... then you can brag that you knew him back when... Choice listens? Ghostwriter and the Horror.

Soul Coughing - Yes, they've been around for a while. No, I didn't know them before November, sue me! In fear of turning anyone off, please listen to Screenwriters blues and circles.

TV on the Radio - They are turning up everywhere, XM commericials, American Eagle, Clubs, FUSE.. I'm pretty sure I'm going to have to pee in the middle of the night and walk in to find Tunde Adebimpe singing 'Crying' in my shower stall. Comparable to Black Kids, if the postal service, my morning jacket, and the dodos helped write the album. Essentials, Wolf Like me, Love dog.

The Weepies - The woman's voice alone makes the band's namesake viable. She literally makes me want to weep, it's just so damn sweet. 'I gotta have you', go listen to it. Then burn your bra and light some incense.

The Wombats - By far my favorite, favorite, favorite band of the month. Jeebus. Maybe even the year? I had an album of theirs a couple of years ago, and forgot about it. Until recently, when 'Let's dance to Joy Division' revived my wombat loving heart. Um. Ramones, clash, ting tings, kooks rolled into pure unadulterated punk pop goodness.

It's a long description. But 2009 will definitely take a turn up if you listen to these artists. Live in the moment, put on your headphones, play it as loud as you effing want, and keep an open mind.

Cheers!

Ruth

wow.. updates coming today

2009-01-26T09:05:00.001-08:00

I am a recent college graduate. Which, of course, means I have been extremely and intentionally lazy for approximately one month. I've been to New York for some interviews, Cincinnati for debauchery, and D.C. for some civil rights history. All of which will be described in greater detail. As for now, I don't think I started blogging soon enough, http://twitter.com/Gloson. This kid makes me want fake a pituitary gland disorder and enroll in the Vern Rife special needs for special kids blog school. Sigh, I will catch up to you, one day, oh you decade of Malaysian prose!...Hangs her head in sorrow... updates to follow. Soon.

Christmas: The most laidback day of my life

2008-12-25T13:40:00.000-08:00

Sure. Christmas is supposed be a time of joy, gift giving, tree lighting, and the college favorite, ugly Christmas sweater parties. For most, however, it usually ends up in a ridiculous amount of stress. Eggnog hangovers. Food hangovers. Family hangovers. Or any other overs that have either been voluntary (masochists...) or thrust upon us. However, I am so amazed with today. It's Christmas. I haven't left my pajamas or my living room, I listened to Sigur Ros and read David Sedaris, and not once did I feel the need for anything more. I guess I should attribute this day of blessed nothingness to the fact that the Keller's started Christmas on Thanksgiving, and maintained a steady flow of family traffic through my college graduation. That was nice. I had three weeks to make the family rounds, exchange pleasantries, and put a little more thought into the meaning behind madness. Hell, I even wrote Christmas cards, sans the standardized message. This may be the only tradition I steal from retailers. Christmas season starts the day after Thanksgiving and ends December 26th. Apply that to your family visits, gift acquisition and get togethers, and I promise steady contentment over the normal bipolar ride of joy and sheer hatred we all usually share during Jesus's Birthdaypalooza.

Things I have learned from Christmas:

1. Three weeks of steady family gatherings beats the hell out of seeing any of them today.

2. I can, in fact, make it through December 25th without watching A Christmas Story or reaching fisticuffs with my sister.

3. Christmas music on Christmas is for the birds. The kind that eat the ham fat leftovers you throw in your front yard after the dogs are comatose. Listen to Sigur Ros and Sufjan and your heart rate (regardless of your best attempts to shove as much cholesterol in your eggnog and deviled eggs) will thank you.

4. Instead of Christmas, The Netherlands celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 5th, with a retired bishop from Turkey and 6 to 8 black men. Depending on your annual behavioral status, you may either get a toy in your sabots, or beaten, kicked, and thrown in a burlap sack. Then, you are drug off to Spain., which is, of course, St. Nicholas's home. I think I like they're version better.

5. Last night during Christmas Mass, the priest lit incense of Frankincense and Muir, which apparently to children, smell of culinary delight. During a moment of silence, a toddler took a deep exonerated breathe and screeched with unadulterated joy, " Something smells delicious!"
Yes kid. That would be the Jesus Crisp.

6. My family and friends know me pretty well: I received a painting, some liquor, a matching sweater from my lover, Icelandic indie music, a back rub, a wallet (that has already been stolen), a journal conveniently containing everything about New York, 100 reasons why music is the best expression, and a promise of Mexican food, cooked anytime I'd like. These of course have been over the past three weeks, which gives me plenty of time to enjoy. And of course, more kind words than I deserve. I hope my feeble attempts of thoughtfulness have proven to be half as good as these. Thank God I didn't get my previously chosen gift for everyone: http://www.trendhunter.com/slideshow/26646/8

8. Contrary to popular belief, change, to me, isn't something you see happening. You only feel it's effects after the fact. Today I woke up and appreciated the simplicity of my life. A change well received.

7. Sometimes doing absolutely nothing can bring everything in perspective.

Happy Holidays, or Lack thereof,
Hayley

Notes on New York

2008-12-09T06:56:00.000-08:00

I come from a town of about 2,000, and when I visited New York this November, questions upon my arrival were only slightly hilarious. I graduated college December 6th, and have finals for the next week. Completely unmotivated? Yes. Therefore, instead of doing the last remnants of schoolwork I have, I wanted to describe New York from my Franklin Furnace, Ohio perspective. I loved it.