the drink up, honey

Fan Videos on YouTube

2011-10-13T11:01:00.002-07:00

Thanks, fan!

2011-09-27T15:51:00.002-07:00

Attention East-Coasters!

The final few copies of You Honk And We Say Thank You will be available for purchase on October 15th at Little Berlin's Book Fair in Philadelphia. Go check out the event and say hello to Alisha at the booth!

upcoming event

2011-07-19T20:40:00.000-07:00

I laughed typing that upcoming show out... looking forward to more?

See You Tonight

2011-07-17T10:51:00.002-07:00

Even though my set is 95% noise this evening, I thought you'd like to know what my biggest inspiration for the set is. 3rd anniversary, 2 years gone by.

WHAT THE HECK?

2011-07-09T16:24:00.003-07:00

THE TENTH AND FINAL EDITION OF THE BEST FESTIVAL IN THE WORLD
JULY 17TH, 2011
SUNDAY
CAUSLAND PARK
(7th St. & N Ave. - free)
THE DRINK UP, HONEY
(at approximately 4:30pm)

TDU,H Record Store Day release

2011-04-08T13:28:00.004-07:00

In keeping with the idea that The Business will have exclusive titles available for one day only in-store on April 16th by Anacortes' finest, I am making available the Flash DrivEP. Previously only available at the DOS show with Mountains, you'll want to bring your laptop into the store to take these exclusive tracks!

Heck #10

2011-04-07T23:17:00.004-07:00

Happy to be playing the tenth annual What The Heck Fest again this year. More details to come and tickets can be found here for a reduced rate, until they're not.

Dream Come True

2011-03-11T15:20:00.002-08:00

Also got Clockwork Orange, Deliverance, Dr. Strangelove, Ed Wood, I Could Go On Singing, The Public Eye, Robin Hood, Unforgiven, and Village Of The Damned. Selling many more on eBay and in the store.

...Thank You

2011-03-07T16:12:00.002-08:00

Thanks for coming to the big Anacortes show. It has been said that it was the single largest concert event ever held in town. We raised a lot of money for the Friends Of The Forest.

What's next...?

Anacortes Show This Saturday

2011-03-02T18:57:00.002-08:00

This might be your last chance to get a copy of the first run pressing of You Honk And We Say Thank You. I've only got a handful left that will be at the show.

[03.05.11]

2011-01-31T13:39:00.002-08:00

2011

2010-12-31T15:51:00.002-08:00

Woke up with fingers crossed in a boy's bed with your pants off. After polite declines of coffee and toast, walked home itching in last night's clothes. Past the phone booth and the beauty bar, the broken windows of your neighbors' cars. Through the backdoor to a message from Sis asking, "Who was your New Year's kiss?" Took the afternoon to piece it all, plus a half a dozen phone calls. Crashed a party with Larissa and Chris in pursuit of a New Year's kiss. Not the way that you imagined it, (on a balcony with champagne lips) but in a pantry against the pancake mix. You had your New Year's kiss.

Inspiration:
The yolks go to waste.
Cloud forest.
North Pacific Ocean.
Probation.
The mangroves.

2011:
Epic shows (but not in the U.S.)
A Promise Made (the record not the band)
The Musher (fruition)
Collaborations (maybe you'll like me more then)

Warmest November Sale

2010-11-22T10:49:00.003-08:00

From now until the end of November, available copies of You Honk And We Say Thank You are available here for just $5 (or more, please feel free to give extra) SHIPPED! That's right. There are not many of the hand-screened first-pressing left, so don't delay. Already have one? Grab one for a friend. These beautiful hand-made objects make great gifts and are certain to sell out fast.

2011

2010-09-23T00:16:00.001-07:00

A Reminder

2010-07-15T13:30:00.004-07:00

In addition to Heck Fest happening at my store practically all day on Saturday, I will be playing at Causland Park on Sunday opening for Kimya Dawson. Additionally, this is the only time you'll be able to grab a copy of The Musher EP.

One year ago today, I arrived in Anacortes.

Now, the above is happening.

Hibernation

2010-07-08T16:47:00.002-07:00

In just over a week, I'll come out of it. I've been less than actively playing shows since the Tim Kinsella/Love Of Everything show in Chicago. That's all going to change when What The Heck Fest rolls around on 7/16-18. I'll be opening for Kimya Dawson in Causland Park on Sunday during the sushi show. Passes for the entire festival are still available (in limited quantities) and are $65. As I mentioned in a previous post, this will be the only time for you to pick up The Musher EP, which will preface the synonymous LP in late fall/early winter.

The Musher EP Announce

2010-06-12T16:25:00.003-07:00

A sneak peak of my new EP, The Musher, is here.

The EP is a limited pressing and will only be available at this year's What The Heck Fest. It compiles b-sides and outtakes from You Honk And We Say Thank You, covers, and some new stuff. It will come free with purchase of the full-length.

Indie Street Fund Drive

2010-06-07T00:12:00.002-07:00

Most of you know that I run a podcast. We're about to enter into our third season of the podcast which marks the seventh year of the show in total (including the broadcast radio days).

We're doing a fund drive for the first time in all of these years to help pay for hosting, equipment costs, and cover the costs of covering various events for the podcast/blog.

If you can contribute, it'd be swell. We have cool rewards.

If not, that's fine too.

Sorry for being SPAM-y.

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/indiestreet/indie-street-radio-fund-drive

What The Heck

2010-05-14T10:13:00.003-07:00

What The Heck Fest is happening this year July 16-18. I'm pleased to announce that I'll be playing a set during the festival, likely on Sunday in the park. You can buy tickets here (the price is only $60 right now, and will likely go up the longer you wait!) as well as take a look at the other amazing bands that I'll have the privilege to be playing alongside. More info about set-times are forthcoming, and it's likely that there will be some related news on The Business front quite soon.

The Business

2010-04-05T14:41:00.001-07:00

As of May 1, 2010 I will be taking over The Business in Anacortes, WA.

I own a record store.

Tour Routing

2010-02-11T11:15:00.002-08:00

Hey folks. In early April, I'll be hitting the road for a lengthy tour in support of the new record. I'm posting my preliminary routing here. If you or someone you know books for any kind of venue, or you wish to have a house show, please e-mail me at thedrinkuphoney[at]gmail[dot]com with a request. I'll be filling out these dates really soon with confirmed shows, but thought that I'd give you the first shot. See you soon, America.
Seattle, WA
Portland, OR
San Francisco, CA
Los Angeles, CA
La Jolla, CA
Phoenix, AZ
Austin, TX
Fort Worth, TX
Denton, TX
Houston, TX
Tampa, FL
Gainesville, FL
Orlando, FL
St. Augustine, FL
Atlanta, GA
Raleigh, NC
Baltimore, MD
New Brunswick, NJ
Brooklyn, NY
New York, NY
Allston, MA
Cambridge, MA
Wallingford, CT
Rochester, NY
Philadelphia, PA
Wilkes-Barre, PA
Cleveland Heights, OH
Dayton, OH
Urbana, IL
Chicago, IL
Evanston, IL

You Honk And We Say Thank You

2009-12-11T17:54:00.009-08:00

It is my great pleasure to announce that my full-length is now available. $10 gets you the album (in CD form) shipped straight to your door.

The Drink Up, Honey - You Honk And We Say Thank You

1. Barricades
2. Bottlecaps
3. Glass (II)
4. My, But Those Glasses!
5. Resin (I)
6. Warmestnovember
7. 6
8. Nighttime
9. Hot [minus] Hot [equals] Hot
10. Fake Emmannuel
11. The Boat's Oar
12. Amalgama

Official solicitation:
The Drink Up, Honey is the name of the experimental sometimes electronic sometimes acoustic musical output from Chicago-come-Anacortes resident Nick Rennis who makes melodic soundscapes using found and live sound. He acknowledges noise compositions whose dark roots also have the potential for making the brightest ambient music. The listener can’t help but recall Jim O’Rourke or Joan Of Arc on a first listen.
As with his ancestors, for The Drink Up, Honey music is as much about texture as it is clarity. It is a means of describing, via melody, ideas about leaving and growing as effectively as the most refined indie pop. The main man is a co-host of Indie Street with a past in post-rock group A Promise Made. He has spent the past few years performing and recording with the likes of New York’s acclaimed Mountains. It may come as no surprise that he currently resides at the Department Of Safety art collective working with the likes of Phil Elverum and Karl Blau.
The Drink Up, Honey strives for balance, between the shattered and the repaired, between abrasive and smooth. This is why even the darkest The Drink Up, Honey pieces feature alluring chord changes and children laughing. In this way, he marks the transitional moment when experimental music went from a subversive entity to a serious force. He is cerebral and introspective, embattled and injured.

Evidence Of Mice

2009-12-08T18:34:00.002-08:00

Pressed some posters for the upcoming Chicago show with Love Of Everything, Tim Kinsella/Frank Rosaly, and Locks. They look cool. I'll probably post some pictures on my Flickr soon.

Coming closer to solving the mystery of who owns the abandoned radio station in town. Think I've got the source. I find myself staring at it dreamily on my drive into work every day... here's to hoping.

Oh, and you can start the countdown to the record being "released". Screens are made. Probably 12/15.

2009-12-04T19:18:00.003-08:00

Getting things done.

Also, Love Of Everything + Locks have been added to the 12/27 show in Chicago. What a homecoming, indeed.

Things I don't want to forget for the next project:
The Musher
"In The Hot Tub. In Your Bathrobe."
"It Looks Like A Star"

The Best Films Of The '00s

2009-12-02T22:43:00.002-08:00

50 is a lot, but I think I can do it. Again with the numbers... tough.

50. I'm A Cyborg But That's OK
49. Hotel Chevalier
48. Ghost World
47. Requiem For A Dream
46. Mulholland Dr.
45. The Pianist
44. 25th Hour
43. Far From Heaven
42. Pieces Of April
41. Dandelion
40. Outfoxed: Rupert Murdoch's War On Journalism
39. Kung Fu Hustle
38. Night Watch
37. The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou
36. The Machinist
35. Bad Education
34. A Cock And Bull Story
33. Don't Come Knocking
32. Bubble
31. Happy Endings
30. Thumbsucker
29. Spend An Evening With Saddle Creek
28. Me And You And Everyone We Know
27. The Three Burials Of Melquiades Estradas
26. Broken Flowers
25. Cache
24. A History Of Violence
23. Wassup Rockers
22. The Comedians Of Comedy
21. The Squid And The Whale
20. Match Point
19. Curse Of The Golden Flower
18. The Lives Of Others
17. Paris, je t'aime
16. Death Of A President
15. Imprint
14. Paprika
13. The Science Of Sleep
12. Monty Python's Personal Best
11. Half Nelson
10. Lewis Black: Red, White And Screwed
9. A Prairie Home Companion
8. Scoop
7. Broken English
6. The Darjeeling Limited
5. Bra Boys
4. Waltz With Bashir
3. Tideland
2. Inland Empire
1. The Host

Far From Heaven

2009-12-01T18:37:00.002-08:00

So. Was getting things done today... then I remembered that this town runs on a snails pace, so I was stopped short from getting it all accomplished. Also, the album art got fucked in the transfer to the transparency so I've got to rethink that all over again.

So... what did I get accomplished then, you ask?

- Posters for Chicago show are closer to completion.
- Got some inspiration for my next recorded works... guess I should release what I've got, though, first.

The Best Film Performances Of The '00s

2009-11-30T22:40:00.003-08:00

This might hint too much at my best movies of the decade, but here goes:

20. Mathieu Amalric as Jean-Do, The Diving Bell And The Butterfly (2007)
19. Penelope Cruz as Raimunda, Volver (2006)
18. Owen Kline as Frank Berkman, The Squid And The Whale (2005)
17. Bill Murray as Don Johnston, Broken Flowers (2005)
16. Hideaki Ito as Gunman, Sukiyaki Western Django (2007)
15. Florence Muller as Young Woman, Paris, je t'aime (2006)
14. Gael Garcia Bernal as Ernesto Guevara de la Serna, Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
13. Lars Nordh as Kalle, Songs From The Second Floor (2000)
12. Katerina Tsavalou as Martha, Hardcore (2004)
11. Kang-ho Song as Park Gang-Du, The Host (2006)
10. Martina Gedeck as Christa-Maria Sieland, The Lives Of Others (2006)
9. Gael Garcia Bernal as Stephane Miroux, The Science Of Sleep (2006)
8. Ramon Allen Jr. as Louis, The Call Of Cthulu (2005)
7. Jens Albinus as The Boss Of It All, The Boss Of It All (2006)
6. Shane Carruth as Aaron, Primer (2004)
5. Su-jeong Lim as Cha Young-goon, I'm A Cyborg But That's OK (2006)
4. Jason Schwartzman as Jack Whitman, Hotel Chevalier (2007)
3. Daniel Auteuil as Georges Laurent, Cache (2005)
2. Laura Dern as Nikki Grace / Susan Blue, Inland Empire (2006)
1. Jodelle Farland as Jeliza-Rose, Tideland (2005)

Sports

2009-11-29T19:12:00.003-08:00

A graphic designer/artist I am not. This is clearly the most taxing, unenjoyable part of this whole process. I have screening, video editing and printmaking to do. I know how to do all of those things. I just need the components with which to do so! Getting things from a screen to a medium that I'm satisfied with blows. That is all.

Edit:
Also, poking around on AV Club (as I like to do) and spotted this. Cool.

The Best Books Of The '00s

2009-11-25T10:47:00.002-08:00

No order here, but I did come up with precisely 29 on my first time through. Also included are anthologies which were published in the past decade.

100 Bullets Vol. 01: First Shot, Last Call (2000), Brian Azzarello
Anathem (2009), Neal Stephenson
Black Panther: Civil War TPB (2007), Reginald Hudlin
Black Panther: The Bride TPB (2007), Reginald Hudlin
The Book Of Bunny Suicides (2003), Andy Riley
The Book Of Bunny Suicides, Vol. 2: Return Of The Bunny Suicides (2005), Andy Riley
Captain America: Civil War (2007), Ed Brubaker
Choke (2001), Chuck Palahniuk
Civil War: Front Line, Book 1 (2007), Paul Jenkins
Civil War: Front Line, Book 2 (2007), Paul Jenkins
Civil War: Marvel Universe (2007), Ed Brubaker
Fables: Animal Farm (2003), Bill Willingham
Fables: Legends In Exile (2002), Bill Willingham
Fables: The Good Prince (2008), Bill Willingham
Ford County (2009), John Grisham
Lullaby (2002), Chuck Palahniuk
Mc Sweeney’s At War For The Forseeable Future And He’s Never Been So Scared (2004), Dave Eggers
McSweeney’s Issue 23 (2007), Dave Eggers
McSweeney’s Issues One Through Three (2006), Dave Eggers
On Writing (2000), Stephen King
Paradigm Shift: Equilibrium (2003), Dirk Tiede
Paradigm Shift, Part Two: Agitation (2006), Dirk Tiede
The Problem Of The Media: U.S. Communication Politics In The Twenty-First Century (2004), Robert W. McChesney
Spy VS Spy Danger! Intrigue! Stupidity! (2009), Antonio Prohias
Spy VS Spy Masters Of Mayhem (2009), Antonio Prohias
Spy VS Spy Missions Of Madness (2009), Antonio Prohias
Vogelein: Clockwork Faerie (2005), Jane Irwin
Vogelein: Old Ghosts (2007), Jane Irwin
Whiteout (2004), Ken Follett
The Wide Window (2000), Lemony Snicket

The 15 Best Videogames Of The Decade

2009-11-22T22:04:00.003-08:00

Again, with the numbers.

15. Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence (Konami, 2006)
14. Madden NFL 2004 (EA, 2003)
13. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4 (Activision, 2002)
12. Devil May Cry (Capcom, 2001)
11. Madden NFL 2002 (EA, 2001)
10. Final Fantasy IX (Square, 2000)
9. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (Rockstar, 2004)
8. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (Rockstar, 2002)
7. Madden NFL 2003 (EA, 2002)
6. Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec (Sony, 2001)
5. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons Of Liberty (Konami, 2001)
4. Grand Theft Auto III (Rockstar, 2001)
3. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 (Activision, 2001)
2. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 (Activision, 2000)
1. Grand Theft Auto IV (Rockstar, 2008)

A Homecoming Event

2009-11-20T18:26:00.002-08:00

It is my great pleasure to announce this thing that is happening:

SUN. 12/27/09 (8:00pm; $3)
Tim Kinsella / Frank Rosaly Duo
The Drink Up, Honey
+ more TBA

@ The Empty Bottle, Chicago
21+

You can buy advance tickets here.

I'll have copies of the new record and hand-made posters for sale.

Expect more soon.

The Best Music Of The Decade

2009-11-19T00:09:00.003-08:00

Numbers don't count for much on this list, honestly, but for suspense...

50. múm - Summer Make Good (2004)
49. múm - Finally We Are No One (2002)
48. Mono - You Are There (2006)
47. Hella - Church Gone Wild / Chirpin Hard (2005)
46. Mono - Walking Cloud And Deep Red Sky, Flag Fluttered And The Sun Shined (2004)
45. Mono - New York Soundtracks (2004)
44. Hella - The Devil Isn't Red (2004)
43. Hella / Dilute - Live (2003)
42. Hella - Total Bugs Bunny On Wild Bass (2003)
41. Mono - One Step More And You Die (2002)
40. Hella - Hold Your Horse Is (2002)
39. Mono - Under The Pipal Tree (2001)
38. Mogwai - Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait (2006)
37. Mogwai - Government Commissions: BBC Sessions 1996–2003 (2005)
36. Mogwai - Happy Songs For Happy People (2003)
35. Mogwai - Rock Action (2001)
34. Four Tet - Ringer (2008)
33. Four Tet - Remixes (2006)
32. Four Tet - DJ-Kicks (2006)
31. Karate - 595 (2007)
30. The Appleseed Cast - Peregrine (2006)
29. Karate - In the Fishtank 12 (2005)
28. Karate - Pockets (2004)
27. The Appleseed Cast - Two Conversations (2003)
26. Karate - Some Boots (2002)
25. The Appleseed Cast - Low Level Owl: Volume II (2001)
24. The Appleseed Cast - Low Level Owl: Volume I (2001)
23. Karate - Unsolved (2000)
22. The Appleseed Cast - Mare Vitalis (2000)
21. Cursive - Happy Hollow (2006)
20. Cursive - Dorothy at Forty (2006)
19. Cursive - The Ugly Organ (2003)
18. Cursive / Eastern Youth - 8 Teeth To Eat You (2002)
17. Cursive - Domestica (2000)
16. Her Space Holiday - Manic Expressive (2001)
15. Her Space Holiday - Home Is Where You Hang Yourself (2000)
14. Mirah - The Old Days Feeling (2008)
13. Mirah - Joyride: Remixes (2006)
12. Mirah - C'mon Miracle (2004)
11. Mirah Yom Tov Zeitlyn, Ginger Brooks Takahashi, And Our Friends - Songs From The Black Mountain Music Project (2003)
10. Mirah - Cold, Cold Water (2002)
9. Mirah - Advisory Committee (2001)
8. Mirah - You Think It's Like This But Really It's Like This (2000)
7. Fennesz - Endless Summer (2001)
6. Joan of Arc - Boo! Human (2008)
5. Joan of Arc - The Intelligent Design Of Joan Of Arc (2006)
4. Joan of Arc - Eventually, All At Once (2006)
3. Joan of Arc - Joan of Arc, Dick Cheney, Mark Twain... (2004)
2. Joan Of Arc - So Much Staying Alive And Lovelessness (2003)
1. Joan Of Arc - The Gap (2000)

The Best TV Series Of The '00s

2009-11-13T19:47:00.006-08:00

I love lists. Here's the first for my end-of-year/decade:

1. The Venture Bros. (Adult Swim, 2003-Present)
2. Flight Of The Conchords (HBO, 2007-Present)
3. The Whitest Kids U' Know (IFC, 2007-Present)
4. South Park (Comedy Central, 1997-Present)
5. Perfect Hair Forever (Adult Swim, 2004-2007)
6. Lucy, The Daughter Of The Devil (Adult Swim, 2007)
7. Korgoth Of Barbaria (Adult Swim, 2006)
8. Clone High (MTV, 2002-2003)
9. Saul Of The Mole Men (Adult Swim, 2007)
10. Superjail! (Adult Swim, 2008-Present)
11. I'm With Busey (Comedy Central, 2003)
12. Stella (Comedy Central, 2005)
13. Gerhard Reinke's Wanderlust (Comedy Central, 2003)
14. Time Squad (Cartoon Network, 2001-2003)
15. The Drinky Crow Show (Adult Swim, 2008-2009)
16. Squidbillies (Adult Swim, 2005-Present)
17. Wonder Showzen (MTV2, 2005-2006)
18. Let's Fish (Adult Swim, 2007)
19. Freak Show (Comedy Central, 2006)
20. Xavier: Renegade Angel (Adult Swim, 2007-Present)
21. 3 South (MTV, 2002-2003)
22. Delocated (Adult Swim, 2009-Present)
23. Tim And Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! (Adult Swim, 2007-Present)
24. The Oblongs (The WB, 2001-2002)
25. Moral Orel (Adult Swim, 2005-2008)
26. Human Giant (MTV, 2007-2008)
27. Aqua Teen Hunger Force (Adult Swim, 2000-Present)
28. Fat Guy Stuck In Internet (Adult Swim, 2007-2008)
29. The Sarah Silverman Program (Comedy Central, 2007-Present)
30. The Xtacles (Adult Swim, 2008)

You/We

2009-11-09T00:26:00.000-08:00

I think I may have just finished my record.

Trialogue

2009-10-25T16:56:00.009-07:00

A recent conversation at Penguin Coffee in Anacortes, WA between Alisha (A), Matthew (M), and myself (N). We opened up a chat so we could talk about the characters surrounding us. A note: Iron & Wine was playing on the overheads.

M: Hey!

N: So much to talk about!

A: So, guys.

N: Dudes next to us want to see a movie tonight...

A: How 'bout it?

M: Da Vinci Code.

A: What?

N: Junior novelization.

M: Pron.

A: He just said, "pull up to dips."

M: 'A utopia' or 'an utopia'?

A: Found phrases, guys. 'A'. You think they pump weights at the Fidalgo Pool And Fitness Center?

N: More importantly, do you think they are for or against the referendum?

M: Oooo.

N: Should we get a town hall going in here?

M: God, I wish I knew.

A: Just turn around and ask them.

N: Iron & Weights.

A: Are their names? This is what we would do at work all day to make fun of customers.

M: We should get paid for this. 'Cuban missile crisis' or 'Cuban Missile Crisis'?

A: I think the latter. What are you writing?

N: The next Dan Brown book.

A: Cool.

M: 'The pyramids of Giza' or 'the Pyramids of Giza'? Jokes!

A: What? What's another word for titillate? Found phrase: relentless heavy tickling.

M: Tantalize.

A: Borgasm. A word I just considered using.

M: Wow. That is great. Refills?

A: Perhaps.

M: Doppelgangers! Doppelbocks! It seems like all the 'bros' come to Penguin.

N: I dunno, guys. He's got Converse shoes.

M: Converse are totally accepted by bro culture.

A: Tell me more.

N: Iron & ESPN.

A: These are like college guys who volunteer at youth group. Ha!

M: Iron & SKIN!

A: Ultimate & Frisbee.

M: Nick loves ultimate frisbee! He's a bro!

A: I have nothing against it.

M: An indie doppelganger!

A: Nick, you should translate for us.

N: I love disc golf, guys. You act like you know me. You don't know me.

A: Frisbee & Golf. You're besties. Is it warm in here?

M: I don't know these bro subtleties. It's hot in here. My pits smell. Like a bro.

A: How would you know?

M: I study.

N: Guys, what if Danny DeVito, dressed as the Penguin from Batman, came in right now?

A: Whoa. Blowing. My. Mind.

M: Mmm.

A: We'd get him a booster seat. Someone should be that for Halloween.

M: Hyphy.

N: Well, friends, I'm running on reserve battery here. So, I lose.

M: Fudge. There is outlets. I'm about to post and then I can leave. Last minute editing. Refinement.

A: No outlets?

N: I'm sure one of the bros wouldn't mind peer-editing for you.

A: There are some in the corner.

At which point my computer died. A fitting end to a productive (?) afternoon.

It's Coming...

2009-10-24T21:19:00.000-07:00

Hey, Friend

2009-10-20T20:28:00.003-07:00

So, here we are. It's been nearly a month since my last post with little else to report on the TDUH front.

The only personal things of relevance are:
- Possible radio station setting-up.
- Movie night.
- Booking.
- Book club.
- Trivia.

Oh yeah, the last song. It's going to have a choir on it. That's why it's taking me a while. SORPRISE!

I Know That I Avoid It

2009-09-29T19:35:00.002-07:00

Great things are happening at the Department Of Safety. We're getting out of debt. We're accepting donations and organized a garage sale. We're reaching out to the community more than ever before. We've got great events planned all through October: movie nights on Sunday, playwright's workshop on Thursdays, and more. I'm stoked to be a part of this reinvigoration and redefinition of the DOS.

That is all.

I'm Still Here

2009-09-26T18:47:00.005-07:00

So, show last night. Success, by my calculations. I optimistically hoped to fill the cushions on the floor of the gallery and there ended up being standing-room only in the back. Got rid of most of my free download postcards as well as a few takers of the limited flashdrivEP. Playing and hanging out with the dudes from Mountains was an absolute pleasure. Our aesthetic is so similar that it was great to just shoot the shit about our compositions, etc. They invited me out to play in New York sometime and I hope to keep in touch as I get closer to the release of my full-length (for possible Apestaartje or Thrill Jockey consideration).
A few photos kindly taken from the evening.

C'Mon Miracle

2009-09-24T14:06:00.002-07:00

Tomorrow night!

Here's a sneak-peek!

Wish me luck.

The Sum Of Blatant Self-Promotion

2009-09-15T20:16:00.002-07:00

So, I'm officially playing my first show out here on 9/25. I'm honored to be debuting new stuff, old stuff, and even a cover (gasp!) while sharing the stage with Phantogram & Mountains (both from NY).

Here's the pertinent event information.

I'd honestly love it if you came, if you can. I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't nervous. So, yeah. Excitement.

Attempt Attempt Attempt To Rise

2009-09-12T18:25:00.002-07:00

Basically take yesterday's post and make it mean completely the opposite. Did nothing today. Tried to get out of bed on three different accounts, only to fail and fall asleep each time. Made it to the post office... that's about it. I'm in a food rut again, pb&j and grilled cheese... bleghhg.

Tomorrow's agenda: mural. Excited.

Productivity, Once Again

2009-09-11T21:01:00.003-07:00

- The setlist is set in the stone which is purple marker. Once I get the flow down, I'll be ready. Definitely think I'll be good to go within a week.

- Got a new episode of the podcast up. It's decent.

- Was invited to be an author on a great blog.

- Went on a beautiful hike to a cliff overlooking Puget Sound. Let's go there someday.

- Family dinner. My contribution: root beer floats. Ya heard.

Inspiration As Tastelessness

2009-09-07T23:11:00.003-07:00

I can almost make it through this entire song (my favorite of last year) without that sinking feeling.

...all the quiet hours I require still can't show me how.

Of Arrows & Church Windows

2009-09-05T19:52:00.002-07:00

jobs. change. it's coming. very excited. remember those business plans? they might be coming in handy sooner than you think.

no updates in a while. been busy recording things that i don't need... yeah, i've scrapped a couple in the past few days. i think it's a good thing, overall. it means that the things that i'm keeping are actually worth it.

assertiveness is go.

Sunn-Bear Has A Boyfriend

2009-08-30T19:34:00.002-07:00

/nerd_on
Fucking goddamn Persona 4 having an epilogue! Thought I was done, but it couldn't be that simple... well, what's another hour or two in addition to the 60+ I've got logged at this point?
/nerd_off

Have I told you that I'm beginning to consider album art, at this point? Anyone who wants to help in any facet should get in touch. I'm up for just about anything and I'm no artist, so please to be helping me.

Adding More To Fit The Apostrophe

2009-08-29T19:47:00.002-07:00

Went out for breakfast today. It was so nice to eat some good food! Meandered around the farmer's market for a bit and picked some berries before going swimming and then hiking... all before lunch!

The rest of the afternoon was devoted to Twin Peaks, Persona 4, and egg sandwiches on freshly baked bread.

I need some more coffee.

I'm glad you're here, blog. One of the things I miss most? Telling someone all about my day.

I'm staying alive.

That Was Weird

2009-08-27T19:18:00.002-07:00

Went for another bike ride today, finally. I need to get out and do that more. It's really enjoyable out here, if not much more difficult, than back home. These hills can kill your legs, I'm telling you. I'll miss going for these cool, crisp rides in winter.

In bigger, more relevant news, I recorded a piece that I've been thinking of for some time now. It's part two of the centerpiece of the album, which was inspired by a dream of a close friend that I really related to. The two tracks, both combined and apart, contrast the rest of the album in terms of both mood and instrumentation. At this point, you may be surprised to learn that there is almost no electric guitar on the entire album and very little in the way of effects... I guess the Pacific Northwest has gotten to me, after all. Anyways, it's really hard for me to write music that expresses something that I'm feeling... I usually come up with ideas for the music and let the mood follow suit. With these two pieces, however, I feel that I've accurately expressed myself in my music (maybe for the first time). This will definitely be the most different, emotional thing you've heard from TDUH. I think I'm about halfway done with material at this point. After which, I can re-launch working on my live set. You won't hear any of these recorded songs in my set, at least not as they were recorded. For me, music is temporal and closely tied to a specific place. As such, I've found that I don't believe that a live set can do justice to these recordings. When I get my live set tweaked, expect almost a different set for every show with variations on things you'll probably recognize. I'll likely play my first show out here relatively soon (release-show type of deal) and then there's talk about a tour shortly thereafter to try and promote the album with some (label?) mates.

7 To Your 7: Let's Call It A Draw

2009-08-26T23:14:00.003-07:00

Had a great evening tonight. Family dinner with homemade pasta, garlic bread, and apple/blackberry crumble. Followed that up with a few rounds of Apples To Apples. The night wasn't officially a hit, however, until I pulled out the Mariah Carey discs. We (I) needed this. It's fun to have eleven really great people sitting around a table together having a good time.

Complex No-Fun

2009-08-25T19:29:00.002-07:00

Everyone I know is where I don't want to be.
I don't know anyone where I want to be.
Also, I'm losing faith and interest in those I knew.
Breaking chains and making change is hard to do.

Llama Echo

2009-08-24T20:46:00.002-07:00

Back to the Anacortes life today. Went for a swim... beautiful. Only people there at a calm, cold lake. Couldn't stay in for too long at a time, so we just jumped in a bunch. Then, we found a shit-ton of blackberries so we did what anyone would do: pick 'em. We've got bowls and bowls full of them to snack on, make pies, crumbles, etc. Delish.

How do you listen to your music? Do you choose music that will reflect your current emotional state or music to get you out of your emotional state? I'm not sure I subscribe to one or the other but I can tell you that I've been listening to a lot of The Promise Ring and Owen... I guess right now, it's the former. Like I said, lonesome.

Paper Towels As Pee-Guards

2009-08-23T20:14:00.003-07:00

As predicted, another day similar to yesterday. Things moved a bit more fluidly today, as I chatted up the folks recording here from the Elephant 6 collective... so much history there. It's definitely another one of my 'pinch me' moments.

Also have to mention Stellarium, the newest addition to my arsenal of increasing star-related nerdery. I have no clue why this stuff interests me in the way that it does, but I'm totally stoked about this application. You should try it out and then get outside and catch all of the Inuit and Norse constellations you've never had any idea were staring you in the face all of your life.

In all, at this point I'd like to say that I'm enjoying myself immensely. Creatively and intellectually speaking, this place is unbeatable and I've felt support & inspiration like never before. I do have to also admit that it's awful lonely out here. The people I really like are either married or have their own groups of friends... I'm getting a whole new grasp on the 'lonesome, crowded West'. In sum: if you're reading this, chances are good that I miss you more than you can realize.

The Music Of Degenerates

2009-08-22T19:13:00.003-07:00

The past few nights have been fun, what with the shows and people coming in and out. Went out to a lame bar last night where we all felt awkward and out of place... it's amazing how far removed we are from society at this point. Surround us with several televisions and people in polo shirts and we're out of our element, indeed.

Been fairly bored today and not in a great mood. Did some podcast work, watched some Twin Peaks and a lot of reading. Otherwise, just been meandering about and complaining that I can't make anything delicious to eat... getting pretty bored with my limited repertoire of culinary skills. Resorting to frozen goods en masse, which leave me pretty unsatisfied at the end every meal.

I fear that tomorrow will be much the same as today. Hopefully I'll figure out something cool to do. I can't even really work on the album since some folks are here recording all weekend.

ho hum

Two Etch-A-Sketches In The Middle Of The Room

2009-08-19T21:38:00.002-07:00

Took me a solid three hour chunk of time to edit the newest episode of the podcast, but it's done. I'm still unhappy about a few aspects, but it's up nevertheless. We'll get back in the swing soon, I hope.

Other than that, just some cleaning. Two shows this weekend here.

Here's what I learned today (click to enlarge):

Burn Ban

2009-08-18T22:44:00.006-07:00

So I lied about last night. I was indeed productive. Wrote and recorded a new track, much like the first one I posted a while back... it's leaning toward that aesthetic, so if that's your thing: you're in for a treat. If not: oh, well. I now have over half of the album finished.

Did mostly promo work today. Not my favorite aspect (nope, haven't changed), but did more of a guerilla style than I'm used to which was kind of entertaining. We'll see how it works.

Art show tonight was fun. Good friends, beautiful scenery, muffins, my first taste of a fresh prawn, driving vehicles which are older than any of my living relatives, etc.

Other than that, leadership is the main focus right now... there's talk of a coup and I appear to be the chosen one.

I'm stoked about all of this Sony news. PS3 slim, PSP "apps" and PSP reader? Sony had always been my favorite... they might have just reclaimed the throne. We'll see if they deliver.

One last thing: I'm going to add something occasionally that should provide laughs and perhaps be thought-provoking. It's basically my hand at art and thought-mapping. It's something I've been thinking of doing a lot lately because it's a good mix of creativity and academia. I call it, "What I Learned Today". Here's the first one (click to enlarge):

The Aggravation Of Making Cubes Out Of Pick-Up Stix

2009-08-17T19:58:00.002-07:00

Worked on the bright today. Found out I'm still not a morning person. Go figure.

Excited for the art show tomorrow at the Mt. Erie Volunteer Fire Department. Our A.I.R. is giving a sort of preview of his final exhibit. It's going to be low-key, but all are invited.

Not much on the side of productivity today, as I seem to be the only one sitting at the meeting as we speak. Blog, you are my meeting tonight.

The Hohly Land

2009-08-16T22:35:00.005-07:00

This past weekend has completely reinvigorated my view on camping and left me feeling more a part of this thing than ever before. Got to see some of the most beautiful sights that I've seen since arriving out here. Took the ferry to our campsite, spotted a submarine and some seals, slept under the cool stars, made breakfast, witnessed one of the most breathtaking lakes I've seen, hiked through the rainforest and arrived at the ocean to see the remnants of sunlight amidst the diving pelicans. A whirlwind of activity for two days and, though I do regret that I was sick for it, am so happy that we all did it together.

Stark contrast to starting work today. Glad it's only part-time to accumulate some spending money while out here. Glad it's not my life anymore.

This is.

2 Naps Is Better Than 1

2009-08-13T20:05:00.001-07:00

Well, it's official: I am sick. Going to fight this for our family camping trip tomorrow!

Got some DoS work done today, but other than that I've seriously just been resting. More interesting stories to come in the following days, I hope.

Extra Care For The Everything Around Us That's Dying

2009-08-12T21:15:00.002-07:00

So, last night ended up being less about the meteors than it did about the true spirit of the DoS. Way too cloudy, so a few of us decided to make some noise in the venue. Much to our surprise, the rest of the housemates seemed into it as they filtered in and took seats in the audience. Then, kids began lining up outside of the garage door trying to peek inside to see what was going on. They ended up filtering in and were totally rocking out and digging our frenetic carny-drone. It was a blast.

Planning the upcoming camping trip to the Olympic Rainforest, which I'm stoked for... alas, my two friends here who are sick have (I think) got me with their colds. Trying to fend this off before we depart.

...and now, I'll walk down to the seaside to see if I can catch sight of any any meteors.

Each 1,000 Years Old At A Rate Of One Per Minute

2009-08-11T19:56:00.002-07:00

Today produced:
-laundry
-a job
-a cello
-official work for the D.O.S.
-a full cubby of food, finally

And now:
-Mount Erie
-meteor shower

It's just tits out here, friends!

I'm Normally Not Prone To Cannibalism, But This Boy Smells Like Hickory!

2009-08-10T23:46:00.002-07:00

Had part deux of the job interview today. Went extremely well. I'm consistently amazed with how well I can sell myself. Oh, how sweet it is to suckle on the teat of corporate America.

Tonight's show was really low-key, but pretty cool:
D.O.S. friends Ashley & Eli (from LAKE) opened things. Just the duo is like a retro-/low-fi/low-key Mates Of State... people eat that shit up.
Breathe Owl Breathe were great entertainers and brought enough board games, sabre tooth tigers, and stunt men for everyone. Like early Dirty Projectors... really good set.

Aside from that, things are moving along with figuring out release information for the upcoming album... it's actually looking like I may have label support for my debut release! More information (hopefully) forthcoming.

Human Emergency At The Pet Emergency Center

2009-08-09T23:08:00.002-07:00

Yesterday, I proved my worth as an actual member of the "cook staff" here when we have shows. Many compliments on the homemade pizza. I don't take much credit, but it was pretty cool to see people enjoying what I was making. We've got a pretty rad duo in the kitchen for shows here, now.

The show itself was okay. Here are my reviews:
Madonna Bangers were entertaining and unpretentiously punk. Great singer.
Apollo Ghosts brought the corniness and surf for the evening. Enjoyable.
Imagine a more lighthearted, punk, chick duo playing doing their best Lightning Bolt impersonation. You've got yourself Bash Brothers.
Contrast this with Rose Melberg. She was kind enough to record one of her new songs for Indie Street's Department Of Podcast... keep an eye out.
Local flavor with Photosynthesis. Only half (one) of the members in attendance.

Today's trip to Seattle was fantastic and just what I needed. Went to a fantastic tea cafe and had myself a delicious green tea mojito. Proceeded into downtown to do some thrifting and general sightseeing. Seattle is one big Wicker Park with better coffee and nicer people. Beautiful, too... foliage, water, mountains. Ate some phenomenal pesto pizza and did some browsing at the flagship REI for our upcoming DoS camping trip this weekend, too. Good friends, good fun. Wish you were here.

What The Craft Fest?

2009-08-07T20:35:00.004-07:00

What a strange day. Anacortes is bustling with more activity than I've seen since I've been out here due to the influx of people hitting up the art fair on the streets... I have to say, even though I'm tempted to get some food from these vendors, I don't like the massive amount of people hanging about right now. They're fucking with my isolation! Oh, well.

Went to the dump today in 'Cinnabear', the DoS pickup that's 45+ years old. Hilarious. When you drive that thing around, people think you're crazy and you probably are.

So far, this evening is a bit depressing, as I really wish that I could be at a housewarming back home. I tried to do some recording, and ended up with a new album-version of "Bottlecaps" that I've been working out for some time... it'll be the only familiar song on the new album. However, it's one of those nights where I'm listening to the 5-6 songs I've got and thinking they're all crap. I suppose that's an inevitable part of the creative process, but it's still frustrating as hell.

Going to go figure out what to do with my evening. The night is young and nobody is around... bummer.

Oh, this is happening tomorrow. You should come.

Oh, The Things You Can Do When Your Dog's Leashed To Your Waist

2009-08-06T20:53:00.003-07:00

Didn't think I'd accomplish much today, but it ended up flying by and I feel pretty good about it. Fixed the TV so I can continue my Persona addiction (not sure if this is a good or bad thing). Then, got in an unexpected jam session with me predominantly on drums. I, as well as everyone else, was surprised... it's coming pretty naturally.

Closing the evening with some Russian food, a walk on the beach to witness the setting sun, and getting some paint so we can make the gallery look nice for the upcoming installation.

Same Page

2009-08-05T22:14:00.002-07:00

Got some promotion done for the 8/8 show here with Rose Melberg. Come out if you can.

Unexpectedly wrote and recorded another track for the album. Basically, my vision at this point is to have an ambient, sparse, "post-rock" vibe without all of the long song business. I'm trying to keep almost everything under five minutes for purely arbitrary reasons, really... I want it less epic and more fluid, if that makes sense at all.

Had a house meeting tonight to establish some roles. Basically, I'm in charge of booking, promotion and the zine library... as expected. I'm really optimistic about what the DoS is capable of while I'm here and keep prolonging my estimated stay time.

Still toying around with doing some academic writing while I'm out here. I've got a couple of different subjects in mind which are all vaguely related to my senior thesis.

For now, though, it's all about this album, finding things to busy myself with and keep my mind off of things.

Professor X Said It Best...

2009-08-04T19:35:00.002-07:00

"We're all misfits in this world... but this place isn't just about putting up a barricade and enduring our pain. It's about seizing the day and making our lives useful."

Funny how I'm a big enough nerd to transpose meaning from Marvel Comics to my own life, no?

Got my job interview on today, went really well. Headed straight up that corporate ladder, yo.

Tried to work some more on the set that I'll be playing soon, but found myself distracted with thoughts of the album. Can't quite pin down what I'd like to accomplish first. It changes with the tides, at this point. However, I can tell you that I'm much more excited about the album right now than anything else. I've got a title picked out, finally as well as some context for the jacket.

Now, people from Sweden are here. Talked to one of the foremost booking agents in the Swedish indie scene. It was great. Going to learn some crafts from them and then listen to some of their music that they'll perform for us in exchange for a place to sleep tonight. Very cool.

I'm Going To Make A Salad...! To Share!

2009-08-03T22:14:00.002-07:00

What started off as a day of frustration and exhaustion ends with a sense of pride and exhaustion.

Went to a paranormal investigator's house to pick up a dishwasher. Going to try and get him to give a workshop on ghost hunting here. I/we had no experience in dealing with dishwashers or our second project: replacing the valves, etc. on all of our non-working/leaking toilets. After a hell of a lot of back and forth to the appliance store and hardware stores in town, I finally got the dishwasher in! And it works! Totally spent. We've named the new appliance the 'Ecto Trap' after the Ghostbusters containment devices, for reasons stated above.

...and now, dance party.

"My friend the crow is reading my journals; marks with a pen every time he sees your name."

Call On Me. Call On Me. Call On Me.

2009-08-02T19:09:00.002-07:00

How is it that every time I head into the living room, this song is playing? Fate, it would seem, that by the early evening I've cycled back to the same state as the previous night.

Did some cleaning today. Dyson vacuums are truly tits. Washed my sheets and was suddenly reminded of the conditions with which I originally received the blanket I still use... I sometimes imagine that voice coming up the echo chamber that is our stairwell.

Discovered that Michael & Michael Have Issues is surprisingly good! It's nice to add another show to the few that I do enjoy.

I realize that I was remiss in doing a proper show review for our concert here on Friday night. Here goes:
Motorbikes played again. I've mentioned them a couple of other times, just do your research, dummy.
The bearded gents from Megafaun delivered what amounted to a low-key Band Of Horses show. Very pretty.
Though you can hear for yourself, Bowerbirds were quite similar to Megafaun with a tinge of a less pretentious Decemberists. That's a good thing.

We've got one of the gals from Lake recording her solo work here right now. She's very nice and sounds good. It's fun to always have new, interesting people popping in.

I'd like not to discuss the particulars of our third attempt at an Indie Street episode tonight, because I'll just get super bummed. So, there.

Producing Productivity

2009-08-01T22:07:00.002-07:00

What a strange day of ups and downs, revelation and reflection.

Started the day off right by getting the very first Indie Street: Department Of Podcast episode off of the ground. This is very exciting for me... I think that this makes manifest opportunities for us to grow as a *gulp* business: underwriting and syndication are all within reach.

Inundated with phone calls from home early in the afternoon, which made me miss home a bit... true feelings would not surface until later.

Attempted to record a normal Indie Street episode with shit results. Microphone problems, internet problems, application problems... we were all over the place. Hopefully things will be easier tomorrow but if not, our alternative solution will be much more professional (if not as silly/lighthearted). This was depressing.

Turned that negative energy around into the second song that will make the cut for my upcoming record. Dark, melancholic, ambient piece that will make you shriek. Won't be released until the album makes it out. Feeling good at this point.

This was followed by more communication from back home. Gave the walking tour of the place and really got homesick for the first time. I miss my family and friends.

Simultaneously, today really solidified why I am out here. I feel a great deal of pride for what I've accomplished thus far and it's amazing to hear feedback from people whose work I care about just as much as my own. I've been making some great connections, bonds of friendship, and creative work that I'm proud of. I'll be here for some time... I just hope I can somehow recapture what I feel I've lost over the past several months.

Popping Off Of Potholes

2009-07-30T22:22:00.002-07:00

What a tiring day!

Went to the NSRA DGC in beautiful/podunk Sedro Woolley today. It was amazing there and unlike any other disc golfing experience I've had in my life. Sprawling hills set the scene amidst a lightly wooded course. It was 18 holes, which is longer than I'm used to in the first place. In the second place, the holes are looong. Went by my lonesome and had to basically guess where each basket was, which didn't help. There are pretty big gusts of wind since you're basically in a valley between mountains, which made it all the more difficult. However, the main obstacle here was the heat. Stifling. I usually don't sweat a ton, but my shirt was soaked through by the time I got back to my car. Many of the baskets are "art baskets" which also added to the insurmountable odds of me achieving par... most of which forbid you to overshoot your target with the only openings in the front. In addition to my usual difficulty of finding my somewhat faded discs in longer grass, the sprawling bramble of blackberries running alongside and through almost all of the holes made each one seem all the more intimidating. It's amazing the sense of remoteness I feel out here, even when I leave the island. I was the only one at the course the entire time I was there in what seemed like the middle-of-nowhere.

Afterwards, we promptly went swimming again before testing out our new Indie Street format... I have high hopes for both the normal episodes and the all-new 'Department Of Podcast' episodes.

Oh yeah, I also helped Paul duplicate copies of the new Motorbikes EP. You should get a copy. It's good.

1, 2, 3, MEN!

2009-07-28T21:32:00.002-07:00

I'm becoming more rugged by the minute out here. Learning so much about wild berries and knots over the past two days. It's like boy scouts all over again!

Cool side-effect about being out here: my favorite music from the Pacific Northwest is taking on new meaning. I'm not usually one to quote music in my blog posts (I think it's tacky) but try this on for size:
"Oh person, person we're really missing you. How's that wide river? Are the mountains doing fine? Can you smell the cottonwoods? Is it huckleberry time? Take a nap on a sandbar and we're dreaming of you too... come on home."

"The Boat's Oar"

2009-07-27T19:53:00.004-07:00

Maybe it's the influx of wild berries I've been eating, or the frequent trips to the lake, but I've written a TDUH ode to my summer spent at the DoS thus far. It's the first thing that I've actually recorded here, so I'm pretty excited about it. I hope you'll enjoy it and I'd love feedback: positive, negative, or otherwise.

It's recommended headphone listening, for what it's worth.

TDUH - The Boat's Oar

Are You Eating A Banana?

2009-07-26T18:36:00.002-07:00

Topic 1: I began watching Twin Peaks yesterday at the behest of all of my new friends out here and because I'm a huge Lynch fan... this was just something I never got around to. So, watched the pilot and was immediately engrossed. Glad they've got the 'Gold Box' here, it'll be occupying my time. Also, not sure what this means yet, but everyone I live with tells me that the show resembles my new life quite accurately... *DUN* *DUN* *DUN*

Topic 2: Got to talking last night with a really nice guy who is using our recording studio. He's from the Elephant 6 collective. Two words: old skool. One more word: awesome. He, his wife, and even their little girl are all very interesting and really nice to sit and chat with. Talked at length last night about the importance of independent media and, more specifically, college radio. Everyone seems really thrilled with what I've accomplished with radio in my past and there's now talk of establishing a DoS radio station... hopefully much, much more on this very soon.

Topic 3: Spent the day isolated in the venue listening to records and organizing, perusing the zine library. I can tell that this (in addition to booking & this radio business) will quickly become one of my favorite responsibilities here. Can't wait to begin contacting publishers/authors for donations. If YOU have a zine that you'd like in our stacks, please get in touch.

As for tonight, I think it's about time that us non-drinkers head to the Donut House again (one of my favorite new places) since everyone aside from me seems opposed to Cruisin' Coffee even though they're dirt cheap and have cute girls working there.

Oh yeah, and internet addiction is a terrible malady that should never be remedied by heading into a Starbucks. Yeah, they're everywhere out here and yeah, it's convenient but man alive there is certainly a specific type of person that chooses this place over any of the other thousand options within walking distance.

Securing The Perimeter

2009-07-25T19:35:00.003-07:00

Took my first trip to Seattle today. When I first arrived over a week ago, I missed all of Seattle due to an alternate routing suggested by my friends over at Google Maps. So, I headed into the University District today, which is quite far on the northern side of the city. As a result, I didn't get any feel or real good look at downtown, but when the skyline appeared on the horizon shortly before exiting the highway, I was beaming. Went to a movie at the Seven Gables Theater which is a great indie theater with exactly one screen. There's also a really cool book shop just down the block that specializes strictly in books on film... some really cool stuff there. As for the movie itself, it was decent. Somewhat typical French flick of romance that's very lighthearted at first and then suddenly becomes extremely serious at the very end. I used to be very against going to movies on my own, but there's really no other option sometimes, you know? It was a lonely kind of day.

Before Sunset

2009-07-24T18:45:00.002-07:00

There's a lot that needs to be done here and I've finally begun doing what I do best: booking & promotion. If feels really good to be doing this stuff again and to be part of something much bigger than any individual living/working here.

I should mention two things of note that I've continued to leave out of my updates:
- The weather here has been absolutely fantastic. Clear and cool. Yesterday was my only taste of the stereotypical Pacific Northwest haziness, and I enjoyed it immensely.
- I've been sleeping like a log here and waking up with a clear head. So far, I've slept better here than I have anywhere else in a long while.

Other than that, I've been consuming more media today than I've been producing (Dirty Projectors, "Two Doves" from the Bitte Orca LP blaring and sappy romantic films, though I still can't bring myself to watch Jules et Jim)... save for one big announcement that I'll make in a bit on my Twitter feed.

Covered in Petrol

2009-07-23T20:18:00.002-07:00

I'm writing material for a new set which will, hopefully, be performed relatively soon. Chances are also good that I'll record the set, split it up into 'tracks' and release it. I like it and I hope you will too. It's music to pass out to.

In other, more exciting/silly news, I went to Jack In The Box for the first time today. Let me tell you a few things about JITB:
1) They've replaced their cashiers with automated stands that take your order for you.
2) You think you can eat like a king at Taco Bell for under $5? You're right. Guess where you can eat like a king for under $3? Yep, you guessed it.
3) DEEP FRIED EVERYTHING!
4) FUCKING DELICIOUS!
This discovery means that I'm in some trouble. So cheap and so bad for you. It's a good thing I've got positive reinforcement from vegan, healthy, organic, and culinarily inclined eaters here.

There's A Serious Vinyl Fetish Going On Around Here

2009-07-22T18:31:00.002-07:00

Realizing that I'm a bit more out of shape than I had anticipated. Rode my bike down to the ferries... my anticipated breathtaking vista did not, however, materialize. Lots of hills and cute houses facing the water... one of the first times in my life I'd ever thought, "this is would be a nice place to raise a little family."

Also, I'm getting the odd feeling that I'm here doing field research. Even though I feel like I should be inspired musically, which I am (hanging out with my idols, compatriots, and watching/listening to them record), I've ended up getting some ideas on the academic side of things. At a house show in Bellingham this evening, I was far less interested in the bands there than in the logistics and demographics of the whole affair. It sounds stupid, but I'm basically living out my senior thesis. It's amazing to contrast and compare the two scenes I've now been a part of. Looking forward to where this is going... more later.

Oh, and for the record, the buzz surrounding The Hurt Locker is kind of dumb. Nothing too special, but a half-arty war flick.

Things Move A Bit More Slowly

2009-07-21T19:58:00.002-07:00

Still feels a bit like I'm on vacation here: sleeping late, playing video games on a giant projector, reading a ton, playing guitar, hanging out.

My bike got delivered today and I impressed myself by reassembling the damn thing all on my lonesome. I'm getting more DIY by the minute. Excited to explore the world around me starting tomorrow... riding around the island with book and lunch in tow is enthralling.

Now just listening to Sharpling's Best Show on WFMU... working that back into the routine. Routine: a necessary evil? Discuss.

(What The Heck) Did I Just See?

2009-07-20T19:36:00.002-07:00

YOUR SCREEN-PRINTING SKILL HAS LEVELED UP. YOU ARE NOW A LV. 2 APPRENTICE.

CONGRATULATIONS.

Over the past few days, I became closer with a lot of the folks that I now live with, as well as becoming chums with some of my idols (going to get late-night donuts, for one). Yeah, it's weird. Thought I'd catch you up on some (I'm probably forgetting a few things) of the action of the past few days before I return to a normal schedule.

Your Heart Breaks kicked things off in a very Pacific Northwest-y fashion. Pretty solid and enjoyable.
Mecca Normal, though decent entertainers, are just not my thing. There, I said it.
My favorite performance of all three days was Mirah's. This is probably more as a result of personal anticipation/goal-setting than anything else.
Most of my friends in my house played with Mt. Eerie and are touring with him this fall. Check them out if they're coming your way.
Earth closed the first evening with a solid performance, if slightly less intense than I was anticipating. Epic, yes.
Sadly, Generifus earns the title of most forgettable. Sorry, gang.
The antics of Vibrarians came as expected. Them is some punk rawk ladiez.
A roommate of mine has a band called St. Merman. They're pretty good.
In a way, Ship Of Friends was good. Ultimately, however, it comes across as pretty gimmicky.
Sitting in the sun listening to Rose Melberg is quite relaxing. Recommended.
I told everyone they'd enjoy Cryptacize. I was right, they did.
Casiotone For The Painfully Alone. Catharsis.
Katy Davidson Jam Band (ex-Dear Nora). See also: Generifus, above.
My new friend, the lovely Genevieve, is O Paon. She used to call herself Woelv.
Karl Blau, perhaps unsurprisingly, played with nearly every band this past weekend. His new stuff is surprisingly refreshing.
Film screening by Vanessa Renwick. Stand up and get a snack before proceeding, there's more.
GRAMMY AWARD WINNER Kimya Dawson. Yeah, songs for little kids are still not doing anything for me.
Oh, you wanted juxtaposition? Wolves In The Throne Room brought it.
I did my part and played with my new friends and roomies in Motorbikes. Very promising stuff coming from this.
White Fang are raucous children screaming and breaking things. Meh.
Lucky Dragons played a really cool, interactive set. Circles of toys on the ground for y'all to play with.
Do you like Bret Lunsford, Karl Blau and/or Phil Elverum? You'll love D+.
Do you like Old Time Relijun, pretentious lead singers and/or loud guitars? You'll love Arrington De Dionyso's Malaikat Dan Singa.
Grouper was the most stunning of anything I was privy to this weekend. So inspiring... color me impressed.
Sheahan Drive is an old artist in residence from the DoS. You should probably buy his records because you'll like them.
I avoided Tara Jane O'Neil because I gave her a not-so-great review on a past episode of Indie Street. She sounded okay though.
No Kids are Mates Of State without the cheese. Made me think of her again.
Everyone went ape-shit for Lake. Not my bag.

If I do say so myself, the DoS definitely "made it happen" this weekend. Here's to strengthening our grasp throughout the rest of the year.

I Can't Swim. I Wasn't Allowed. My Asthma—

2009-07-16T21:39:00.002-07:00

Meandering around town this morning was in stark contrast to the events of the evening: jumping off of a small cliff into the most beautiful lake you've ever seen.

Noticing that cost of living here is a bit more than back home. Gas and groceries are all inflated (probably because of the whole 'island' thing). Decided to skip buying shelves and be resourceful/cheap -- my new CD cabinets are made out of old cardboard boxes and don't look half bad, if I do say so myself. The rest of the afternoon was devoted to cleaning up DoS for Heck Fest... people are already coming into town to check the place out. I only arrived yesterday and I'm already a host. Listened to the new YACHT album with one of the nice gents from Casiotone For The Painfully alone and then did the aforementioned swimming. Scraped the shit out of the top of my foot: my first battle scar from the West.

Things are moving along, but there's something here to remind me of each of you back home: a Seattle's Best 24-hour coffee joint; Papa Murphy's pizza; and an old brown Volvo station wagon parked across the street.

Biggest Sprinklers You've Ever Run Through

2009-07-15T22:03:00.002-07:00

And with that, my residence at the Department Of Safety has begun. Still sinking in.

Today's drive seemed much longer than any of the other, actually longer drives in my three legs. Perhaps it was the anticipation, but most likely, it was the amount of absolutely fuck NOTHING in the entire state of Washington up until Seattle.

Well, let's cut to the chase, shall we?

What are the odds that I'm now living with someone that my old band used to play with all of the time? Slim, but such is life. Very strange.

I made up my room as best as possible, but am missing a few bare essentials: rug, shelves, etc.

Other than that, I am completely enraptured with every single aspect of this place. I've met a ton of people already and worked a little stuffing CDs into cases for What The Heck with Phil Elverum.

As for right now, I'm enjoying a piece of feshly made "bread-cake-cherry-thing" that my new friend from England whipped up while listening to old soul 7"s in the common area...

...I think I'll be just fine out here.

What The F*** Were Lewis & Clark Thinking?

2009-07-14T21:03:00.004-07:00

What follows is a fictional account of the forgotten conversations between explorers Lewis & Clark, as imagined/rehearsed by Adeline (my all but silent traveling partner) and me.

Clark: deep breath Ahh! Glorious, isn't it Lewis?
Lewis: It sure is... I just wish that birds would stop flying into my hat and dying upon impact.
C: You know, Lewis, I imagine that once other folks settle here, they'll all be extremely nice and very slow.
L: Of course. They'll just be happy to see someone else's face!
C: Uh oh. I see a storm brewing on the horizon. Hold me, Lewis.
...days later...
C: Thank God that storm finally passed... I thought it would never end.
L: Yeah, it's a good thing we ran into that nice band from Brooklyn at that last rest stop.
C: Dude, they were total hipsters.
L: What? Okay, for one, what type of people do you think are going to be in the Pacific Northwest when we get there? And, for two, that chick was totally hot.
C: Whatever. I see mountains up ahead, let's head down to this valley so we can cross.
...hours later...
C: Shit! This isn't just a valley, it's a raging river! How are we going to cross now?
L: It's a shame these damned indians didn't think to install zip-lines. That would've been sweet... Stupid indians.
S: We--
L: You shut the fuck up, Sacagawea.

fin

Have to keep yourself entertained on the road somehow, right?

Whitewashing Collapsed Barns

2009-07-13T20:03:00.003-07:00

At the age of 23, I've left everything that's ever given me comfort and traded it in for the unknown.

I'm headed out to Anacortes, Washington for a stint at the Department Of Safety. I'll be living and working there: booking, recording, and generally being creative. I'm going to reinstate this blog for all things TDUH. What you'll find here will be part travel journal, creative pondering, and personal epiphany.

Let me list a few of my goals for the next several months at the collective:
1) Record a TDUH album.
2) Learn to play the drums.
3) Start a record label.
4) Learn more about myself so that I know what to do with these loose ends when/if I return.

After a very Garden State last few minutes in Illinois, I made my way on the first of three legs of my journey. Illinois brought the traffic, as usual. Wisconsin brought few surprises and lots of speed traps. Minnesota has been the slump of the trip thus far. North Dakota is quite beautiful set in front of the setting sun, but I'm happy to have stopped just short of my goal of Bismarck for the evening. I'm emotionally and physically exhausted (especially after having a near panic attack at the apparent shortage of vacant hotel rooms in the middle of bumble-fuck-nowhere).

The playlist for my trip has been mostly ambient, leading to some contemplation and reflection... I figure that I've got three days of being utterly alone, so I might as well try and work through as much baggage as I can in that time. Right now, I'm feeling endlessly excited, anxious and sad (don't have much of an appetite, either). The good news is that I'm already coming up with some new musical ideas. This is good.

R.I.P.
(1) Careless bird
(1) Spider in my car

Things for sale, roadside (pretty sure they don't do Craigslist out here, so I thought I'd bring them into the information age):
(1) Extremely large rock
(Countless) Buffalo

Goodnight.

Bike For Three! cover

2009-05-27T08:19:00.002-07:00

My first cover ever pushes me in a new direction. It's available to listen/download here
(right-click to save)

Special thanks to Bike For Three!.

Indie Street: the podcast

2008-05-29T12:46:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone-

I'm pleased to announce that my podcast, Indie Street is now official. Please check it out at http://www.indiestreetradio.com. It will soon be available through iTunes and other podcast directories, but until then you can subscribe to http://www.indiestreetradio.com/broadcast.

I'd love it if you all became listeners and told all of your friends.

Hope all else is well.

two new tidbits

2007-11-15T07:56:00.001-08:00

the first tidbit is a sample from the newest project that i'm working on... it's aptly called sample 1 for the time being.

the second of these said tidbits is the return of an old favorite, 'Filtered Snow', which will be available on the page for download for a limited time only (as it's only winter for so long).

enjoy both and i hope to hear some feedback from you. yes you.

head on over to http://www.myspace.com/thedrinkuphoney to download both for free right now!

Published!

2007-05-29T08:21:00.001-07:00

40 Free Songs for download here:

The Drink Up, Honey - Foster Home

Enjoy.

i'm so sorry that i didn't get anything done last night

2007-05-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

seriously.

i was too busy doing my radio show on 88.9FM, WMXM. you should listen to it every Thursday evening from 7-10pm(CST). i've got a long weekend to finish up the writing, and i think it'll happen.

3 songs left

2007-05-24T08:49:00.001-07:00

help me out here... after i record these, should i just make a giant post with all 40 songs, or should i post a song a day. perhaps this would include a description of the original song.

hmm.

on sexist love ballads

2007-05-23T11:12:00.001-07:00

only one more song completed last night, it was a ballad. many of Foster's love ballads wouldn't make me fall in love with him if i were the ugliest girl in the county. in each one of these, he basically just tells women that they need him because they serve no other purpose in life... what a romeo. i hope that once all of these are done, the ladies begin swooning.

i'm really trying to get through these in a hurry now. i'm very excited.

as the Hootie once sang... "Time, why you punish me?"

2007-05-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

i only got one more song done last night because it was a long one... i think it may have been his longest song cycle that didn't just use repeats of certain sections and thus ended up sounding fairly interesting in the end.

i'm still crossing my fingers about the need to replace the pin-connector in my NES... i think i might be able to skate by without it.

in the meantime, i'm distracting myself with HBO's Extras. fantastic stuff.

the 72 pins that decide my fate

2007-05-21T14:09:00.001-07:00

i'm done with about 33 songs so far in the writing process. i got a lot done over the weekend.

though i'm beginning to find Foster somewhat predictable and formulaic at times, i enjoy the challenge of making it interesting using the tools i have at my disposal.

my only concern right now is that the recording process might take a considerably longer amount of time than i had originally planned for. i think that my 72-pin connector might be going bad again, in which case, i'll have to crack open the NES again and replace it. oh well. hopefully, i'll get it straightened out and maybe not have to replace the connector again. that would make me happier than Rupert Murdoch

what are we going to call this thing?

2007-05-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

so i'm beginning to wonder what to call my project once it's done.

i would appreciate any feedback you can give.

first, i toyed with the idea of combining Foster's name and '8-bit' or 'electronic' but it, again, began to sound too much like 'Switched on Bach'. right now, i think i'm fairly content with just 'The Foster Project'.

ideas?

new song for the interim

2007-05-17T07:20:00.000-07:00

so i got bored yesterday and put a new song up on the ole' myspace. basically, i missed my guitar and tape loops. so, there you have it. i call it 'seventeen year cycle' because, frankly, i'm really not looking forward to the onslaught of cicadas this summer.

in other news, i'm now finished with 22 of the Foster songs and am currently working through what might be the most racist of his works: 'Old Black Joe'.

i'll also put a new banner up tonight during my radio show. it looks just tacky enough to make it on here.

who is this guy anyway?

2007-05-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

so i'm actually already about halfway done with the Stephen Foster songs. i'm really getting tired of his style, and can basically always predict how each song will go. but, there is some fun in that i think. more and more, i'm putting my own twists on his songs to make them more 8-bit friendly.

i figured it might be nice of me to tell you a little about Stephen Foster and why i'm doing this in the first place:
Foster is not someone that i admire a whole lot. in fact, i find most of his work entirely boring. i thought that i'd do 40 of his songs because i couldn't think of a more removed composer from the electronic, 8-bit sound. i also didn't want to go entirely cliche and do another version of Switched On Bach.
Foster was an early American composer in the 19th century who most famously wrote "Oh! Susanna" and "Camptown Races". he had little to no background in music, but began composing at an early age. His music is mostly a blend of civilized parlor songs and minstrel music. Foster worked most of his life as a bookkeeper for a steamship company until he joined the Christy Minstrels and began writing some of his most famous pieces. though most of his music might be considered somewhat racist today, (and hilarious to some) he really tried to get blackface performers of the day to make their audiences feel compassion towards them. also, though most of his songs are about the South, Foster only ever visited there once in his life. Foster was also one of the fist poor singer-songwriters... truly beginning an American tradition. in his later life, the quality/popularity of his songs dwindled until the beginning of the Civil War, in which demand for his songs reached an astonishing nothing. Foster died when he was 37 as a result of a fall into a washbin that shattered and gouged his head... ouch. there are many memorials today which celebrate the composer including ones in Georgia, Pennsylvania and Ohio. his brother is largely responsible for his post-humous success since she compiled most of his work after his death.

so, i'm about halfway done and still truckin'. i'm really excited for you to hear these songs. i think they hold a lot of promise.

new TDUH project

2007-05-15T09:47:00.000-07:00

i'm currently working on 40 of Stephen Foster's songs for the NES. they will be all instrumental, 8-bit versions of his songs sequenced through my recently mod'ed Nintendo.

these will be available here for free download in the coming months.

i'll be blogging here during the process. thanks for reading.