A Cup of Coffey

You've Got to Hear This!

2009-04-17T11:02:00.007-04:00

Not much gets me from idea to blog these days—but Splotchy and his Green Monkey Music Project always rouse the challenge in me. Volume 18 boasts a cool theme, thanks to Allen Lulu: The Unheard Monkey Mix—bands you may not have heard, but should be listening to. We music freaks stopped working on the perfect mix tape and came up from the parents’ basements to play: Grant Miller, Zombie Barbara and Tim Russell, as well as Splotchy and Allen.

And me, of course.

I went local for this GMMP. Georgia has a rich music history—probably one of the strongest in the nation. It’s the home state of the innovators: James Brown, Ray Charles, Little Richard, and R.E.M. Otis Redding, Gladys Knight (who went to my dad’s high school), the Allman Brothers, Sam Moore (of Sam & Dave fame), The B-52’s all started in Georgia. Athens’ Elephant Six groups are among those changing what we listen to today. I could go on in all the major genres—country, hip hop, alternative.

But let’s get to the reason we’re here: Georgia music you should be listening to. Here are six of my favorite Atlanta and Athens bands.

The Whigs :: Right Hand on My Heart

The Whigs, from Athens, are finally getting much-deserved attention, so hopefully you’ve heard a tune or two. “Right Hand on My Heart” was my birthday theme song last year; Favorite Boy and I played it quite a bit during our Asheville jaunt. The Whigs also performed it on Letterman not too long ago. A most excellent rock song.

The Selmanaires :: Nite Beat

The Selmanaires are the pride of indie Atlanta, playing together since 2002 or 2003. I stupidly just missed their show a couple of weekends ago.

What The…? :: 7 Women (A Guy Can Dream)

What The…? is my favorite new discovery in a couple of years. Eskimo Bliss’s Kim introduced me to Lee, the band’s groovy guitarist gal, on Facebook a few months ago, and I was hooked. How cool is What The…? This Atlanta band has played the Cavern Club, kids! Be sure to check out their most excellent e-jukebox.

Beretta76 :: Hit Parade

I’m stretching it a bit with my local theme. Beretta76 is a Phillie band, not an Atlanta one—but guitarist Pete Rydberg grew up here. He went to high school with All Things Dan, and Dan turned me onto the band a few months ago. Damn good band. Hope they play some gigs down here in the near future.

The Good Graces :: Real to Me

I mentioned above that What The…? is my favorite local find of the last couple years—but that declaration must be shared with The Good Graces—Eskimo Bliss’ Kim's band. Kim, in fact, owns her own record label, Eskimo Bliss. (Cool backstory: Kim won a nice jackpot during a trip to Vegas, and used that cash to start the label.) We heard several of her bands recently at a label showcase, but The Good Graces is still my favorite. Kim sings, plays guitar, and writes lovely songs.

Tin Cup Prophette :: Speak or Spill Down

Don’t you love it when you go hear a favorite band and fall in love with the opening act? Tin Cup Prophette is my latest opening crush, starting last week's show for Robyn Hitchcock & The Venus 3. This Athens band has a distinctive, interesting, lovely sound. Karen and I rushed to the Variety Playhouse lobby to snag the CD/T-shirt combo after their set. Our beloved Scott McCaughey stood at the edge of the stage before his set to catch them; he seemed to like them a lot as well.

A shoutout here for CD Baby—the best online indie music store around—that carries Beretta76 and What The…?. CD Baby also has the best damn acknowledgement e-mail in the business:

Your CD has been gently taken from our CD Baby shelves with sterilized contamination-free gloves and placed onto a satin pillow.

A team of 50 employees inspected your CD and polished it to make sure it was in the best possible condition before mailing.

Our packing specialist from Japan lit a candle and a hush fell over the crowd as he put your CD into the finest gold-lined box that money can buy.

We all had a wonderful celebration afterwards and the whole party marched down the street to the post office where the entire town of Portland waved "Bon Voyage!" to your package, on its way to you, in our private CD Baby jet on this day, Tuesday, January 13th.

I hope you had a wonderful time shopping at CD Baby. We sure did. Your picture is on our wall as "Customer of the Year." We're all exhausted but can't wait for you to come back to CDBABY.COM!!

So. Click above. Download. Listen. Dance around your cubicle. Click over to Slotchy: The Unheard Monkey Mix for all six playlists. Buy their records and get ready to tell your friends “I started listening to them before they got big.”

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And So It Begins

2009-03-10T22:00:00.004-04:00

I came home to this:

Yes, I’m turning fifty in two weeks — now the age of the aged, at least in the mind of the AARP. And yet … it’s not. I feel younger, more carefree, happier than the me who turned forty. Maybe that's why The Buzzcocks are singing AARP's tune.

There are things I want to do — or do differently — during my new decade. I’ve put a bit too much energy into my job, and my job really doesn’t define me.

Show of hands of those who know what I do. That’s what I thought — maybe seven of you. Of course, I may have just seven readers after my sporadic performance these last six months.

I want to learn Italian, maybe French. I’ve always wanted to play guitar. I need to travel more. Dance regularly. Meet and mingle every damn day. Skydive, bungee, live on the edge.

Blogging regularly is another thing I’d like to try in my fiftieth year — but don’t hold your breath quite yet. There are rumors, however, of the return of a once-popular segment, coming my birthday week.

So. I’m trying to be back. Pray to the blog gods that I stay off Facebook long enough to post.

Yep, after avoiding it for two years, I’ve become addicted to Facebook. Are you on Facebook? Friend me! You’ll get to see my face.

And now I must check out Coaster Punchman’s new series.

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The Sixes Meme

2009-01-14T19:08:00.006-05:00

My loveliest and most talented near-neighbor I’ve never met, Eskimo Bliss, tagged me with another random things meme. I love lists and I’m rather random, so let’s play.

The Rules
1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them.
5. Let each person know they’ve been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

I’ve posted many (many, many) self-absorbed lists, so it was tough to come up with six things you haven’t read about me (and I told myself I can no longer include “R.E.M. is my favorite band” for six weeks). Let’s hope you find these somewhat entertaining.

1. I cannot step on a crack and break my mother’s back. I always step (sometimes hop) over the line.

2. I was once kicked off the bridesmaid team because Bridezilla said I wasn’t taking the wedding as seriously as she. Um, that counts as a duh, doesn’t it?

3. Broadway musicals bore me. I prefer my musical theater to be along the lines of Hedwig and the Angry Inch.

4. I once had a sex dream about Corky, the mentally challenged boy on the TV show “Life Goes On.” What makes this particularly disturbing is I never saw the show. (And, yes, he was goooooood.)

5. I am a Target addict. Today’s ensemble includes the following Red Dot Boutique items: slacks, turtleneck, cardigan, panties and bra, tights, makeup. There’s a Target across the street from my office, so I probably average three pop-ins every week.

6. Whenever I’m blue, I play three songs to perk me up: R.E.M.’s “Turn You Inside-out,” The Replacements’ “I Will Dare,” and Wilco’s “Heavy Metal Drummer.” If those don’t do the trick, I move to Sonic Youth’s “Incinerate” and Spoon’s “Did You Evah.” So far, I haven’t had to dig deeper into the playlist.

I’m tagging six sexy gals:

1. Flannery Alden at Prone to Whimsy got all sexy and sixy!

2. Christine at Real Men Don't Watch American Idol

3. Lisa at That’s Why got all sexy and sixy!

4. D. Guzman at Beginning to Bird got all sexy and sixy!

5. WendyB at Wendy Brandes Jewelry

6. Sue at Dating Rules for Sitcoms

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Gracing The King

2009-01-09T11:59:00.010-05:00

I was so busy eating fried banana-and-peanut-butter sandwiches and chair-dancing in honor of Elvis’ (and David Bowie’s) birthday yesterday, I forgot to post these photos I’ve been holding for nearly a year. I visited one of my favorite buddies in Roanoke last March, and he took me on a tour of the town's cultural sites. The most brilliant was the miniature Graceland:

For a girl who loves her Elvis and misses her Barbies, this slice of heaven was absolutely divine. Sadly, I didn’t get close-ups so you could see the Barbie swimming pool or the lights in the performance arena (yes, there’s a performance arena!). It's the greatest dollhouse of all time.

Talk about your Mystery Train.

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16 Things You Don’t Know About Me

2009-01-04T23:28:00.016-05:00

My favorite never-seen gal pal Katie tagged me with this on Facebook. I’m double-dipping, publishing this here and on Facebook. Maybe this will start a trend: blog posts at Cup of Coffey! I’ve listed a lot of things you once didn’t know about me throughout the blog years, so you may recognize a couple of these; just act surprised.

1. R.E.M. is my favorite band in the whole wide world.

2. I have a scar along the edge of my chin. Having the scar isn’t weird, although I have no idea how I got it. What’s weird is, until I was in junior high, I thought it was the seam for my skin … as if The Good Lord knitted my flesh Himself.

3. I cannot sit through a scary movie, except for vampire flicks. Dying to see Let the Right One In at the Plaza Theatre this week.

4. Shows like “The Bachelor” make me angry. Competing for a man? Puh-lease. If the Mormons are so concerned about the sanctity of marriage, why aren’t they going after that crap?

5. I have arthritis in my right big toe. The aches come and go, but it’s cool to crack the toe knuckle.

6. I could not say “goddammit” — not even sing it in a song (always replaced with “hot damn”) — until I started working at an ad agency in 1984. Those two years ruined my wholesome vernacular. Now, when this graceless creature drops something or bumps into something (a regular feature in my day-to-day life), it’s always “Oh, goddammit!”

7. I bite my nails. I occasionally quit, but I’ve been in mega-gnaw mode since August.

8. I haven’t been to a concert in six months. No wonder I can’t stop gnawing my nails.

9. One of my favorite songs ever is Wham’s “Everything She Wants.” Still treasure the 45. I throw my arms wide and belt it out every time I hear it, whether I’m in the car or in a store. Used to embarrass the hell out of the Beloved Ex.

10. I can go for a year without a date, but I get very depressed if I go more than two weeks without a flirt object.

11. I’ve never been married, and I don’t ever see myself getting married. I have, however, fallen madly in love more times than I have fingers. Who needs a ring when you’ve enjoyed so many fingers?

12. Jimmy Carter and his family went to our church when he was governor. One morning between Sunday school and church, I was drinking at the water fountain outside the sanctuary, and kept hearing my mom apologize to someone. When my thirst was quenched, I found that my little black patents had been stomping the hell out of the tips of Jimmy’s wingtips. Much to my great disappointment, the future president’s bodyguards didn’t wrestle me to the ground; I guess my twelve-year-old self wasn’t very threatening.

13. I kissed Warren Zevon.

14. I also kissed Rufus Wainwright. But only on the cheek.

15. I’ve been in the hospital just once, for a staph infection in my sinuses at the end of my freshman year in college. Never been through an operation, and I still have my appendix and tonsils.

16. 16 was my favorite number when I was a tweenie. Why? Because it represented being a full-fledged teenager. And 16 Magazine was my fave.

I'm not going to tag anyone on the blog. If you want to play along, type up sixteen things we should know about you.

And if you're on Facebook, friend me.

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Twelve Shades of Awesome

2008-12-28T23:01:00.010-05:00

The Christmas season brought many things into my world: parties and prezzies, friends and family, imbibement and indulgence. Damn, it’s been a great holiday in my world.

Santa also brought me a much-anticipated blogger meet-up — with the headbanging, calculating* Mathdude, who was in town visiting brother Tony Alva**.

I’ve been a fan of Mathdude since before he started blogging. In fact, I pushed him to start*** after he started smart-alecking his way through my comment boxes. We’ve attempted a couple meet-ups, so I was determined to make it to the the face-to-face this time****.

Mathdude and Cup, about to walk into a brick wall.
Little birdies chirped and swirled around our heads
just seconds later as we bounced off the wall.

And so we met for brunch. We noshed and dished. He told great stories of his storied past with the above-mentioned brother or on his own. He even charmed me and avoided whining about my word verification in the comment box. If he hadn’t had to hit the road for that four-hour drive north, I would have squired him around my little corner of the world. He’s a helluva lot of fun.

In summary: Mathdude is cool. Tall and cute. Tells a good tale. Needs to actually listen to those R.E.M. CDs*****.

That's all I got for ya!

* In a math, not an evil, way.
** Bro Alva didn’t make it to brunch. It was raining. And sis broke the chair.
*** Yes, it’s my partially fault. I apologize. Or accept your accolades.
**** Though he didn’t let me know until Tuesday he was headed to town.
***** But he left me with a most excellent CD.

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All I Want for Christmas

2008-12-25T12:35:00.001-05:00

The only Mariah Carey song I like:

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Another Cup of Christmas Cheer

2008-12-24T00:43:00.004-05:00

Here's another favorite Christmas classic. This is the first song I play every holiday season. No better way to kick it off than with Dean Martin and "The Christmas Blues."

Happy Christmas, my lovelies.

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One of My Favorite Christmas Songs

2008-12-23T07:42:00.001-05:00

I never found the time to put together a Christmas mix tape for y'all, and I'm sorry. To get you through the next couple days, here's one of my very favorite tunes:

Thanks, Filegod!

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I Enjoy Being a Girl

2008-12-18T12:29:00.004-05:00

The beginning of this week was one to be filed under “Horrific.” Imagine your worst nightmare coming to life. That would be Tuesday.

So, how did I get over it? Why, by cocktailing and baubling, of course.

One of my favorite local baublers, August Miller, had a trunk show at a local restaurant last night, and I couldn’t miss out the opportunity to rejuve the soul. And rejuve I did, with the best mojito I’ve had in years — and these lovelies:

August made the earrings while I mojito’ed.

August’s jewelry can also be found in New York, Chicago, and Nashville — and, of course, online. If you’re on Facebook, check out I (heart) August Miller Design Jewelry.

A mojito. A great sale on handmade jewelry. Girl talk. Damn, I really enjoy being a girl.

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The Bucket List: A Semi-meme

2008-12-08T19:47:00.005-05:00

My sister e-mailed this to me. I’m too busy writing and being creative at work, so this slack-a**ed blogger decided to turn it into a blogpost.

Here’s The Bucket List of things I have or have not done throughout my life. If I haven't done it, the line is in green.

Spent the night on three or more continents

Skydived

Deep-sea dived

Bungee-jumped

Driven a motorcycle

Run a marathon

Been in a movie

Been married

Seen the Grand Canyon

Some of the greens are on my to-do list before my fiftieth birthday — just three months away! Can you think of others to add to the list? Or feeling like playing along on your blog?

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Watch What Happens

2008-11-30T18:36:00.001-05:00

Yes, I know; I’m one slack-ass blogger. You can’t imagine the time it takes to be a Bravo star — but I think we left y’all with a good impression of our fine city and our classy, fashionable Southern belles.

Though I haven’t been e-visible lately, I have been leading an interesting life — and at times it has resembled an episode of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.”

Among the highlights:

• Still thrilled about the Obama win! Still angry about the Prop 8 win; watch for a post for that in the coming days.

• I just bought tix to this to kick off my fiftieth birthday celebration. Any of you New Yorkers up for cocktails in mid-March?

• I finally joined Facebook. Addictive — and it’s so great to see you bloggers from the front! Some cute blogging faces out there.

• There’s a lovely new romance in my life. I can’t think of anything that’s more rejuvenating than the early stages of a new romance. Toes remain curled, giggles erupt regularly. And that’s all I’ll write about that.

Come back to me. Tales to spin! Secrets to spill! A meme to fulfill!

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My Six Degrees of the GMMP: Boom Boom

2008-11-04T00:04:00.002-05:00

I was thrilled with Splotchy recently announced the return of the Green Monkey Music Project. I love putting together mix tapes, but have been too busy the last six months to get back into the swing. When he offered those of us who’ve earned the highlight covered GMMP Master badge, I jumped at the chance to head up a mix. I wanted something challenging, something to make the fellow mixers think, a theme that would open up to different genres 1 and to just plain see how interesting the connections could be.

Lord, here I go again, sounding like a Kurt Loder wannabe.

And so I came up with Six Musical Degrees. Like the Kevin Bacon game, our GMMP musicologists had to connect six musicians, or songs, or covers. Splotchy has posted the track listing, and will soon have the files ready for download.

So let’s get to my six. I wanted to cross genres, to include some of my favorite covers and artists — and of course work in R.E.M. Let’s see where that got us:

John Lee Hooker: "Boom Boom"
I’ve always thought “Boom Boom” was one damn sexy song, and it’s one of my top five favorite blues classics. “I love to see you strut, up and down the floor / When you talking to me, that baby talk / I like it like that.” To quote Mr. Hooker, whoa, yeah!

Van Morrison feat. John Lee Hooker: "Gloria"
You can’t help but love the original “Gloria” by Them — but two covers are actually my favorite versions. This is one, from Van’s album Too Long in Exile (1993) — and, g*ddamn, is it sexy with Van and John Lee. My toes curl and I get a shiver up the back of my neck to the hairline whenever I listen.

Patti Smith: "Gloria"
And this is my other favorite version of “Gloria,” from Patti’s debut album, Horses. Love it when Patti snarls “Jesus died for somebody’s sins — but not mine.” I always play this song when I’m pissed off. It helps. Man, I remember when this album came out and I heard this song for the first time. I just stopped. Played it over and over and over before I could listen to the rest of the tracks. Sometimes I wish I were Patti Smith.

R.E.M. feat. Patti Smith: "E-bow the Letter"
Even if you’ve read just one or two Rolling Stone articles about R.E.M., you know that the much-beloved Michael Stipe always calls out Patti Smith as his biggest influence. So it was a big thrill for us fanatics when New Adventures in Hi-fi — a much-underappreciated album — came out and we heard Patti singing with Michael. R.E.M. doesn’t have many guest vocalists, so this was particularly powerful for us.

Hindu Love Gods: "Wang Dang Doodle"
What a thrill when two of your favorites come together. Throw in a drunken recording session, and you have music gold, my friends. My R.E.M. boys Peter, Mike, and Bill supported the beloved (and kissed) (and missed) Warren Zevon on his 1987 album Sentimental Hygiene. The foursome got a bit blitzed on beer, and started playing around with all sorts of songs. It’s not a stellar album, but it’s damn fun — and you gotta hear their cover of “Raspberry Beret.”

Warren Zevon: "Boom Boom Mancini"
Here’s a track from the aforementioned Sentimental Hygiene — bringing “Boom Boom” full circle. That’s Peter, Mike, and Bill backing Warren. Brilliant album; this is maybe the sixth-best cut on it.

Here are my six songs, mixed by Splotchy. Want the rest? Then head on over to Splotchy’s spot.

So. Enjoy. Debate. See what our other musicologists strung together. And visit their blogs, too.

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Wilco the Song

2008-11-02T12:35:00.002-05:00

God bless Stephen Colbert. And Jeff Tweedy.

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Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T16:01:00.001-04:00

I haven't gotten around to dusting off my Mix Tape Fridays — but here's a musical bag of tricks and treats from A Million Miles Away's KS. Better than candy corn!

If you have yet to visit The Big Wicked Online Pageant, keep scrolling down the page. There are some GREAT photos of these folks.

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The Big Wicked Online Pageant

2008-10-28T06:35:00.027-04:00

The first annual Big Wicked Online Pageant is here! Visit these blog-ghouls and e-goblins. Leave trick or treat comments. Discover new bloggers. Then come back here and let us know whose photos are your faves.

We're adding new pageant contestants nearly every hour, so check back regularly. There are some great costumed memories on the blogs this week!

• Dan at All Things Dan

• Barbara Bruederlin at Bad Tempered Zombie

• Dguzman at Beginning to Bird *

• Cormac Brown at Cormac Writes

• Beth at A Cup of Coffey

• Samurai Frog at Electronic Cerebrectomy *

• Sean at Everything Is Pop, Pop Is Everything

• Allison at Flying Buttresses

• Gifted Typist at The Gifted Typist *

• Grant Miller at Grant Miller Media

• MNmom at Happy to Be from Iowa *

• Johnny Yen at Here Comes Johnny Yen Again *

• Splotchy at I, Splotchy

• McGone at International House of Blogcakes *

• Brothers Tony Alva and Mathdude, together at Intravenus de Milo *

• Marni at It’s a Pug’s Life

• Lulu at Land-o-Lulu

• The Dena at Linkadelica *

• Dr. Monkey von Monkerstein at Monkey Muck

• Gizmorox at My Head Is a Box Filled with Nothing *

• Dale at Passion of the Dale

• BeckEye at The Pop Eye *

• Flannery Alden at Prone to Whimsy *

• Artful Dodger at Rants Raves Life and Anything Else That Comes *

• Katrocket at Rocketradio

• Doc at Social Zymurgy: Culture of Beer

• Skyler’s Dad at Some Days It's Not Worth Chewing Through the Leather Straps *

• Chris at Some Guy’s Blog *

• Bubs at Sprawling Ramshackle Compound

• Suze at Suzel’s Sass *

• Tanya's Alexander at Tanya Espanya *

• GETkristiLOVE at Two Minutes in the Box *

• Evil Genius at What I Like About the Universe

• Red at What I Like About the Universe

• Cap'n Ergo "XL" Jinglebollocks at With a Twist of Lemon *

Check back later today and throughout the week, as other blog-ghouls plan to post photos in the coming hours and days.

* Tuesday's newbies!
* Wednesday's children!
* Thursday's players!

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My Moment in the Big Wicked Moon

2008-10-27T22:42:00.002-04:00

So here I am, hosting the first annual Big Wicked Online Pageant — and I can’t find a Halloween photo from my youth. ‘Tis a sad thing, as Halloween was just about my favorite day of the year. I got to dress up, run around the neighborhood with Holly and Renae, and bag tons o’ candy. I usually went as a gypsy, with lots and lots of baubles accenting brightly colored skirts. (Come to think of it, I still dress like a gypsy two days out of five.)

But I’m not going to let something like poorly archived family photos keep me from playing — so here I am in a rather creative costume, circa 1990:

That’s me: the opening credits to the Twilight Zone. Fun costume, but I ended up being a literal wallflower since I always had to stay within extension-cord distance of a wall socket.

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The GMMP Great Eight

2008-10-22T14:38:00.003-04:00

Looks like we have a great eight for my GMMP challenge — those musically daring souls willing to connect six degrees of artists or songs:

• iSplotchy’s GMMP master, Splotchy

• Allen L

• Bad Tempered Zombie’s Barbara

• The Pop Eye's BeckEye

• Monkey Muck’s Dr. Monkey von Monkerstein

• The KatBox’s Glassmeow

• A Million Miles Away’s KS

• And me!

We’re waiting on a couple entries — then we’ll hit PLAY and roll this mix tape, with Splotchy and me posting everyone's six. The kids will be tracing their six degrees of musical brilliance on their pages, as well.

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Six Degrees of the GMMP

2008-10-20T17:11:00.001-04:00

Now that Splotchy has resurrected the Green Monkey Music Project, he’s offered the GMMP masters the opportunity to helm our own mix. I’ve missed my weekly mix tapes (but still can’t find the time to put them together), so I’m grabbing this opportunity to semi-mix.

The theme: Six Degrees of Music

The idea: As with Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon, you need to connect six degrees of musicians or songs. For example:

Your sixth-degree connections can be by musicians, or cover tunes, or whatever musical notes you come up with.

We need six people to monkey around with Splotchy and me. Are you up for the challenge? Leave a comment here, and start connecting your musical dots.

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The One Wonders Meme

2008-10-17T18:40:00.011-04:00

Fellow metro Atlantan Mathman6293 tagged me for an interesting meme: answering one-word questions. I need to get back in blogging shape, so let’s go, Number One!

1. Clothes: Whenever I’m in public, absolutely. At home, maybe. Oh, you mean where do I get them? Wherever a display grabs my attention. I’m more of a visual shopper, less of a label one.

2. Furniture: As with clothes, wherever something strikes my fantasy.

3. Sweet: If I’m slugging at home, it’s Häagen-Dazs’ Vanilla Swiss Almond with hot fudge sauce or Magic Shell. If I’m out, whatever sounds most decadent and gooey.

4. City: San Francisco, with Paris and New York City very close behind.

5. Drink: Since Coaster Punchman’s visit, I’ve been hung up on grapefruit margaritas. I guess I’m not ready to stop reliving that magical night.

6. Music: It’s my reason for living. Here’s a little secret: R.E.M. is my favorite band evah.

7. TV Series: Pushing Daisies

8. Film: I can’t pick just one, so here are some of my favorites: An Affair to Remember, Diva, Wings of Desire, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Amelie, Bridget Jones' Diary, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Harold and Maude, Parting Glances, All About Eve, The Evil Dead trilogy, The Women (the original), The Philadephia Story, Truly Madly Deeply

9. Workout: Lately, my most vigorous workouts have been chair-dancing at my desk at work. I’m starting a new vigorous regimen in a couple weeks, though.

10. Pastries: The chocolate croissants at the DeKalb Farmers Market — they’re perfect.

11. Coffee: Strong dark roast (preferably French), black. If I hit Java Monkey on my way to work, it’s a 16-ounce skim latte with an extra shot.

And now the 1s I’m tapping:

• Eebie at Modern Day Hobo has one-upped!
• Red at What I Like About the Universe has cussed me and one-upped!
• Skyler’s Dad at Some Days It’s Not Worth … has one-upped!
• Pagan at The Pagan Sphinx has one-upped!
• Mathdude at Eating Chicken Vindaloo has finally one-upped!

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The Power Pop Return of the GMMP

2008-10-15T17:23:00.005-04:00

The beloved and musically brilliant Splotchy has resurrected the beloved and musically brilliant Green Monkey Music Project with the Power Pop Mix Tape. Having been undercover from the blogworld for several months (I’ve watched “Fringe” a bit much, haven’t I?), I nearly missed my opportunity to play. I begged Splotchy … bargained with him … offered cash bribes … and he finally relented.

Plus, the musical nerd occupying most of my soul was highly offended over a power pop mix tape without a single Big Star track — considered to be THE power pop group. And I worried that some of you may not be familiar with Big Star — a sad, sad thing. So let’s spend a few moments in music school.

Alex Chilton started his music career as lead singer in The Box Tops, which evolved from a band he started during high school in Memphis. The band scored with blue-eyed soul classics such as “The Letter,” “Cry Like a Baby,” and “Sweet Cream Ladies.” Alex was 16 when he recorded “The Letter”; next time you listen (which you can do as you read this, if you click the link below), remind yourself he was a kid.

Chilton joined Chris Bell’s Big Star in 1971. They recorded three brilliant albums — #1 Record (1972) Radio City (1974), and Third/Sister Lovers (1978) — none of which sold well. BUT. Big Star was a big influence on some of the best groups in the 1980s, including my beloveds R.E.M. and The Replacements. Chris Bell was killed in a car accident in 1978. Alex Chilton now performs solo, and also has reformed Big Star with Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow.

But who wants to read when music’s dying to play? Here are my GMMP Power Pop selections:

The Box Tops :: The Letter

Big Star :: Don’t Lie to Me

Big Star :: September Gurls

R.E.M. :: Jesus Christ

Alex Chilton :: Thing for You

The Replacements :: Alex Chilton

Cheap Trick :: In the Street (That 70s Show theme)

The Posies :: What’s Going Ahn

A mix tape for me is like a bag of Lay’s Potato Chips — I can’t havee just eight. So here are a few more Big Star songs and covers, to give you a hint of their influence:

Big Star :: Kizza Me

Afghan Whigs :: Nighttime

Jeff Buckley :: Kanga-Roo

Wilco :: Thirteen

Yo La Tengo :: Take Care

I hope I’ve sold y’all on Big Star, that you're dancing in your chair and singing loud enough to bug those sitting near you.

And welcome back, Splotchy’s Green Monkey Music Project!

* * * * * *

The Big Wicked Online Pageant

2008-10-13T19:16:00.006-04:00

A couple of years ago, this blog circle participated in quite the entertaining online event: The Little Miss Sunshine Online Pageant. Participants posted a grade-school photo, and Dale and I linked to those posts on our blogs. The contest was a smash, with about thirty folks posting their lovely piccies, and people from far and wide clicked their way across our blogworld. It was a hoot seeing who was a third-grade hottie and who was fourth-grade nottie.

I was a nottie.

Some of us discovered new blogs to read, so it was well worth the time to dig through the boxes in mama’s attic. But we haven’t done anything fun like that since 2006.

That is, not until Bubs over at Sprawling Ramshackle Compound put on his cocktailing thinking cap. He contacted Dale and me with a great idea: posting our favorite Halloween costume photos. Ideally, these would be photos from your childhood — but we’re easy. We’re talking the ultimate in tricks and treats!

Rules for The Big Wicked Online Pageant

• Scan a photo from your Halloween past.

• Post it on your blog Monday evening, October 28.

• Once you post your photo, e-mail me at the address on the navbar. If you can, include the URL to that specific post.

• I’ll post a link to every participant’s blog Tuesday morning by 9 a.m.

So start digging through your archives. Warm up the scanner. Get ready to don your best Halloween masks!

* * * * * *

Coffeyfornication

2008-10-01T12:59:00.011-04:00

Last week, while debunking the myths surrounding this summer’s disappearance, I noted the following:

I am not the reason why David Duchovny checked into that sex-addict rehab clinic. But he’s going to be in town next month shooting a movie, so maybe I can work in a relapse.

Since I posted last week's not-so-juicy gossip morsel, Sitemeter has informed me that the blog has had several West Coast hits — from Los Angeles and Seattle, Portland and San Francisco — via this Google phrase:

coffey duchovny

Methinks Duchovny’s looking for me. And a relapse.

I feel a bit guilty, though. I loved Tea Leoni in Ghost Town — and, well, in anything she does — so I’d hate to cause her heartache.

But. He’s been on my Top 5 lists since 1995 … so suck it, Bree Sharp!

* * * * * *

Gimme Some Sugar, Baby

2008-09-28T17:20:00.008-04:00

I’ve been fighting the Facebook temptation for a couple of years. It’s all I can do to keep up with the blog (as you gracious readers discovered this summer), so why add to my e-stress by joining a social network? But when Grant Miller asked me to be his friend, I considered it.

This past insomniaced Friday, I was up late Googling long-lost friends. I saw that one of my favorite long-losts was on Facebook, so I decided to give the page a turn.

The three minutes to sign up was worth it for this:

Yes, the man who always sits atop my Top 5 — whether I’m listing by lust level or alphabetically — is my Facebook friend.

Bruce’s next movie is scheduled to come out in late October. Here’s the (brilliant) trailer:

Awesome awesomeness, non?

p.s. The long-lost accepted my e-friendship request, too.

* * * * * *

Why I Love Dave: Reason #53

2008-09-25T14:13:00.005-04:00

In case you missed last night's Late Show with David Letterman, the one John McCain bailed on because he had to rush back to DC to solve our economic crisis:

Seems McCain wasn't too busy for an interview with Katie Couric.

* * * * * *

People Who Understand You: Priceless

2008-09-23T23:49:00.007-04:00

Had dinner tonight with Holly, one of my very favorite people on this earth — and one of Cup of Coffey's most loyal readers. It's liberating to spend an evening with someone who knows you better than most, who gets you, who just plain loves you. I'm one lucky girl.

The contentment of the evening reminded me of my favorite Mastercard commercial. I love these boys.

* * * * * *

How I Spent My Summer Vacation

2008-09-22T18:07:00.006-04:00

Many of you wrote to check on me during my extended vacation from the blogworld, and for that I’m grateful. However, I’m on too much of a squishy high over my new-friend crush on Coaster Punchman to write an intelligent, interesting post, so instead I’m going to address some of the rumors that swirled during my e-disappearance.

• I did not spend the summer traveling Europe with R.E.M. Dammit.

• I did not steal Peter Buck’s Rickenbacker.

• My looking into that house down the street is not the straw that broke the financial camel’s back. I don't think ...

• I didn’t win the lottery. Dammit.

• I am not the reason why David Duchovny checked into that sex-addict rehab clinic. But he’s going to be in town next month shooting a movie, so maybe I can work in a relapse.

• I am not among the seven people who actually paid to see The Love Guru. I may have been absent, but I still have taste.

• Obama didn’t fist-bump me hard enough to bruise my typing hands. Dammit.

• I did not sneak off to have a baby, although I was spotted walking around with a blanket covering my pudgy midsection.

• I may have stalked Dale. But just a bit.

• I didn’t track down Kid Rock to kick his ass for ruining a perfectly good Warren Zevon song. But I’m considering it.

• I did not knock Noel Gallagher on his bum.

• I didn’t see any concerts, except for Kathy Griffin. Dammit.

I will fill you in what I did during my summer vacation, so check back. Regular posting is back, baby!

* * * * * *

Cups and Coasters

2008-09-18T19:35:00.012-04:00

While my Hillary dream was a fascinating moment to share, it was really a chance to stretch my typing muscles, to tone up, to get back in shape for this bragging post.

I, blogging lads and lasses, spent Tuesday evening with beloved blog vivant Coaster Punchman.

CP was in town on business, and I selfishly didn’t share that news with local bloggers (sorry, cuz). Since hotels were booked all over the downtown and midtown areas, he stayed a hotel in my neighborhood.

Mr. Punchman has posted his memories of the evening. Be sure to read his post; he remembers more about the evening than I do. And his includes more adventure.

In theory, it was going to be a perfect evening to introduce CP to the ATL. A couple of cocktails al fresco, then a two-hour cruise driving around the city, topping the evening with dinner at a neighborhood restaurant James Bearded for its twist on Southern cuisine.

In reality … well, plans are made to be broken, right? Especially when that grapefruit margarita is as tasty as it sounded on the menu. So, yeah, we made it for the cocktail or two … which I think ended up being five. Five divine margaritas. And no driving cruise around my lovely hometown.

Note to self: Always carb up at lunch for cocktailing. An empty stomach does not appreciate tequila.

Tequila is my Kryptonite. I know my limit: four, no more. After that, things get fuzzy, ugly, confusing. Last time I went the full five dive, three summers ago, I ended up kissing my (female) friend in the parking lot. CP was spared that, but he did have one damn drunk dinner date. Whose shoe broke at some point, which added to her drunken, staggering charm.

But the conversation was fantastic. It’s liberating when you meet a blogger. You’ve never seen his face, never heard his voice — but you know his personality, interesting pieces of his life. Ice breakers aren’t needed. Dishing and spilling come easily. So did the cocktails — and thus I've spent the last two days thinking of more questions to ask and stories to tell. I think CP needs to come to Atlanta regularly.

CP is more charming and handsomer than I expected. Funny, smart, interesting, irreverent. We gossiped about the bloggers we love, gossiped about ourselves. I’m sorry he’s moving across the country before I get to NYC. Poor George should be called Lucky George.

In summary:

• Coaster Punchman is adorable.

• Embarrassing hangover has passed, but my big toes are bloodily stubbed.

• Grapefruit margaritas are awesome.

• I plan to go cocktail-free ... until Sunday's bottomless mimosas brunch, that is.

* * * * * *

Here I Dreamt I Was Hillary Clinton

2008-09-16T10:34:00.005-04:00

My Hillary self was seated in a restaurant near Richard Thomas (star of The Waltons and those Mercedes Benz voiceovers). We chatted and realized we had nothing in common belief-wise, which got us laughing hysterically. Bill was not amused.

* * * * * *

Gone Fishin'

2008-08-05T04:11:00.002-04:00

I wish. But I'm going to pretend I'm off having fun while I tackle one rough workload. Coming back in about a week.

Don't forget me!

* * * * * *

Why I Love San Francisco: Reason #42

2008-07-18T13:35:00.008-04:00

Proposed George W. Bush Sewage Plant makes ballot
Associated Press

SAN FRANCISCO — A measure seeking to commemorate President Bush's years in office by slapping his name on a San Francisco sewage plant has qualified for the November ballot.

The measure certified Thursday would rename the Oceanside Water Pollution Control Plant the George W. Bush Sewage Plant.

Supporters say the idea is to commemorate the mess they claim Bush has left behind by actions such as the war in Iraq.

Local Republicans say the plan stinks and they will oppose it.

* * * * * *

Proud to Be a Georgian

2008-07-15T05:42:00.005-04:00

This lovely local wedding has been making the rounds this weekend. Be sure to check out the slideshow at the end of the article.

Scattered, Smothered, Covered and Hitched
Couple marries at Waffle House

By Alex P. Joyner
Staff Writer

DACULA — As the famous twang of Hank Williams Jr. blasted from an SUV stereo Friday afternoon, about 30 folks socialized, sipped soda and puffed on cigarettes.

No, this wasn't a Fourth of July backyard barbecue. It was the run-up to a wedding.

In a Waffle House parking lot.

The lucky couple, George "Bubba" Mathis and Pamela Christian — both 23 and employees at the Dacula diner located at the Ga. Highway 316/U.S. Highway 29 interchange — wouldn't have it any other way.

"I don't know, it's something different," Mathis said while fixing his tie prior to the ceremony.

For years, the couple tried to marry on their Independence Day anniversary. But the bride was always scheduled to work. Instead of waiting any longer — she got the day off at the last minute; Mathis had to report for the morning shift — the couple of nine years decided to seal the deal at work.

The result was what a NASCAR tailgate might be like if Hank Jr. himself stopped by with all his rowdy friends: Loud and proud — country music, storytelling and plenty of Dale Earnhardt paraphernalia — and not an iota of pretentiousness.

Shortly after exchanging vows under the shade of a tree next to the parking lot, both man and wife let out sighs of relief as they picked up their two little blonde girls and chatted with family and friends. But there was not time to relax — the wedding cake had to be cut inside.

"It's been crazy, madness," the bride said. "Finally, everything worked out."

Standing nearby, the father of the newly minted Mrs. Pamela Mathis, William Christopher, wondered if anyone had videotaped the ceremony. He wants to send it in to CMT.

"I think it's pretty redneck myself," he said, laughing. "But I'm a redneck anyway, so."

The couple plans to honeymoon Monday and Tuesday, but then it's back to work.

The destination?

"I don't know yet," Mathis said.

As Countess DeLave (The Women) would say, “L'amour, l'amour.”

* * * * * *

Cup's Getting Serious

2008-07-10T17:27:00.018-04:00

Things with Favorite Boy are going relatively well. He lives a few states away, but I get to see him regularly. (Not as much as I’d like, of course. Damn fricking long-distance romances.) He’s funny, and kind, and smart, and naughty. We’re having a good time — I want to keep it that way — so I passed a rule that we cannot talk about Where This Is Going until at least the end of this month. I want to enjoy Phase One as long as I can. And, although I'm a girl, I really don't enjoy The Big Talks.

But Favorite Boy broke the rule, bringing up a serious relationship topic the other night, one that kept us talking into the wee hours of the morning.

The topic that broke the rule? Our Freebie Fives.

I love talking about my Freebie Fives. There’s something wonderful about fantasizing and objectifying men. Here’s the problem: Every time I think I’ve settled on those lucky five and head to the card-laminating shop, I think of someone else I wanna get all freebie with.

Help me, kids. Help me anoint the boys worth a throw-down.

Here’s my list so far:

1. Bruce Campbell

2. David Duchovny

3. open slot

4. open slot

5. open slot

Three open slots. And who’s in contention for the coveted three through five? These lovelies (listed alphabetically to avoid jealousies):

Anthony Bourdain
Peter Buck
Michael Chabon
George Clooney
Johnny Depp
Jeffrey Donovan
Colin Firth
Tom Glavine
Hugh Grant
Jon Hamm
John Krazinski
David Letterman
Ewan McGregor
Chris Noth
Keith Olbermann
Clive Owen
Paul Rudd
Nick Simmons

Convince me. Throw some pros and cons on these tasty male-morsels in the comment box.

Who made Favorite Boy’s Freebie Five list? He has three definites — Jennifer Aniston, Liz Phair, and Laura Linney — which make sense, since they look a lot like me.

And, yeah, I think I’m back. Some great stories to tell — including finally checking off one of my Before I Dies last weekend — so come back in the coming days.

Photo credit: The lovely and talented Str8jacket

* * * * * *

It Can't Bea!

2008-06-26T21:51:00.004-04:00

The best Sex and the City parody I've seen.

These girls prove you can be a classic and still have it going on. Or so this near-classic is praying.

* * * * * *

What's the Frequency, Coffey?

2008-06-25T04:47:00.005-04:00

Quick report: Saturday's R.E.M. show was beyond amazing. I've written a full blog post — in my head — but have yet to find the time to put fingers to keyboard. Look for a full report (with groovy pix) in the coming days.

The kids in the R.E.M. office think it was an amazing show, too. According to REMHQ.com:

R.E.M. Returns Home in Style
R.E.M. ripped through a muscular 27-song set Saturday at Atlanta's Lakewood Amphitheatre on a balmy Georgia night, the last of the sixteen dates on the band's North American leg of their current world tour. It was arguably the finest show on a tour replete with stellar performances and highlights. The near capacity crowd, teeming with friends and family, witnessed a band at the top of its game, blending high energy rock, including a generous helping of the high-octane tracks from ACCELERATE, with some of the more poignant numbers from their vast catalog of songs — Time After Time, Let Me In, and Nightswimming.

For those who cannot wait, here's the setlist:

These Days
Living Well Is the Best Revenge
So Fast, So Numb
What's the Frequency, Kenneth?
Time After Time
Driver 8
Man-Sized Wreath
Walk Unafraid
Hollow Man
Ignoreland
Houston
Electrolite
(Don’t Go Back to) Rockville
Auctioneer
Harborcoat
The One I Love
I've Been High
Let Me In
Bad Day
Horse to Water
Orange Crush
I'm Gonna DJ

Encore:
Supernatural Superserious
Losing My Religion
Pretty Persuasion
Nightswimming
Fall on Me (w/ Johnny Marr)
Man on the Moon (w/ Johnny Marr)

Brilliant set of songs, huh? Just wait until you can read my gushing, workshipful review of the show.

* * * * * *

I Feel (More Than) Fine!

2008-06-20T04:46:00.002-04:00

The R.E.M. show is tomorrow night — and this excited fan is beside herself! It's going to be a great night shared with great friends — and, I think, a great moment or two. I've been dancing and singing and reliving my twentysomething R.E.M. shows all week.

Here's something to help you get into my R.E.M. non-sleep mood:

Who knew HE was a fan?

The mix tape posts will resume next week. My PC's been under the weather, and thus I haven't been able to get to my MP3s. The Beloved Ex will save the PC day this weekend.

* * * * * *

Why Work When You Can Sing?

2008-06-18T10:30:00.000-04:00

The pop-culturally Beckeye is running a lyrics contest on her blog — it’s tough and it’s fun. Waste valuable office minutes today trying to pin the singer and title to the lyrics. Who want to be work-productive in June when you can sing tunes from the sixties through nineties?

* * * * * *

A Slack-assed Blogger Fakes a Meme

2008-06-16T13:42:00.014-04:00

Yeah, I know. I haven’t been e-round. My recent life has been a circus — professionally and personally — so I haven’t been able to find an hour to write all the posts in my head. Plus, my PC is being rather uncooperative lately. I went three days without e-mail access!

Excuses, excuses.

To get me back in the blogworld, I thought I’d answer this e-mail from my sister on the page. Play along if you wish.

Were you named after anyone?
My mother got the slightly unusual spelling of my first name from the actress Lizabeth Scott, who starred in Loving You with Elvis. My middle name comes from my great-grandmother who raised my mother.

When was the last time you cried?
This morning, after seeing Tim Russert’s son on Today. And ten minutes later over something personal.

Do you like your handwriting?
Somewhat. I like my g and 8, which I copied from the person who most influenced me: Mrs. Barrett, school newspaper advisor and toughest teacher I ever had. I’d love to find her so I could tell her how well I've done with everything she taught me.

What’s your favorite lunch meat?
Very rare roast beef or that pressed turkey in a package.

Do you have kids?
Two cats, one boyfriend, no children

If you were another person, would you be friends with you?
Yep. I’m a lot of fun and I’m loyal to my beloveds. I occasionally rank an eight on the High-maintenance Meter — but what interesting woman doesn't?

Do you use sarcasm a lot?
Definitely; it's my family's language. I had to learn how to dial it back during the Beloved Ex era; who knew sarcasm could be hurtful?

Do you still have your tonsils?
Yep; appendix and virginity, too.

Would you bungee jump?
Absolutely. French and I almost did at a WRAS music festival in 1992, after a great set by the Soup Dragons. We were quite drunk on some alcoholic lemonade, and jumped the bungee way. It closed down as we got to the line, so we missed our chance.

Do you untie your shoes when you take them off?
Nope. Why waste time on something unnecessary when I could be dancing?

Do you think you’re strong?
Yes. The Beloved Ex says I'm the strongest person he knows. And he'd know.

What’s the first thing you notice about a person?
The eyes. Or her baubles/his height.

Red or pink?
Depends on how it’s used.

What’s your least favorite thing about your body?
The excess junk in my trunk and my too-short legs.

Who do you miss the most?
OM

What color pants and shoes are you wearing?
No pants; I’m wearing a darling green print sundress. The shoes? Adorable two-inch strappy sandals. And you should see the baubles: recycled glass from Coke bottles!

How about your shirt?
Turquoise T-shirt. It looks fabulous with the green print sundress.

What’s the last thing you ate?
Currently munching on a salad while dreaming of cookies.

What are you listening to right now?
R.E.M.’s Accelerate — and getting pumped for this Saturday’s show!

Who’s the last person you spoke to on the phone?
Favorite Boy, late last night

If you were a crayon, which color would you be?
Periwinkle

What’s your favorite smell?
Favorite Boy — because if I can smell him, he’s in town. If he’s three states away at home, then it’s the scent of a spring rain I most enjoy sniffing.

What’s your favorite sport to watch?
Is Project Runway considered a sport? If not, then baseball.

What color is your hair?
Black, with more shoots of gray every year. I’m going for the Susan Sontag/Bride of Frankenstein look.

What color are your eyes?
Hazel — or as I like to describe them, green with freckles.

Do you wear contacts?
Since my freshman year in high school. I am one blind blogger without ‘em. The Beloved Ex used to enjoy taking away my glasses and quizzing me on what I could see (not much, unless I was living in an impressionist universe).

Favorite food?
YES! God, I love food (see: the excess junk in my trunk). Thai’s probably my favorite; Italian is my comfort food.

What’s your favorite cereal?
I tell people Cheerios (especially this time of year because I can put fresh peaches on top) — but it’s really Cap’n Crunch. I haven’t spooned the Cap’n in four or five years, sadly; it's not on the approved Weighty Waddlers list.

What’s your favorite ice cream?
Häagen-Dazs Coffee Heath Bar Crunch (which is hard to find) or Vanilla Swiss Almond (with hot fudge or Magic Shell drenching the top)

Favorite dessert?
Cake or cookies with buttercream frosting

Scary movies or happy endings?
Happy endings. I’m such a wuss over scary movies — unless Bruce Campbell is starring in it.

What’s the last movie you watched?
Bridget Jones’s Diary on Bravo over the weekend. If it’s on, I must watch.

What book are you reading now?
David Sedaris’ new collection, When You Are Engulfed in Flames. Busted out laughing twice while reading it on the bus this morning.

Summer or winter?
I’m really a spring/fall chick. Of the two queried above, I’ll pick winter any day. I hate the heat; I get whiny and bitchy and irritable when the humidity hits.

Hugs or kisses?
Yes … oh, God, yes.

What’s on your mouse pad?
Don’t use one; I surf barebacked.

What did you watch on TV last night?
The neverending Tim Russert coverage on MSNBC. I adored Tim Russert; his death hit me hard.

What’s your favorite sound?
Someone laughing over something I said. Or the opening note of an R.E.M. show.

Rolling Stones or Beatles?
Can’t pick one over the other; they’re both brilliant.

What’s the farthest you’ve been from home?
Europe. Of the countries I’ve visitied, I guess Italy’s the farthest away from Atlanta.

Do you have a special talent?
Yes; just ask Favorite Boy. Seriously, I’m very comfortable talking in front of an audience, and I can also rhyme on a dime and whip up a song parody in no time — family traits I’m proud to possess.

Where were you born?
Right here in Atlanta.

Who do you want to answer these questions?
Every damn one of you!

* * * * * *

Book Shack, Baby!

2008-06-04T04:48:00.002-04:00

I want a coat of Schneider all over my next Grammar Geeks and Punctuation Punks class.

* * * * * *

Carried Away

2008-05-30T03:04:00.001-04:00

My life was filled with the giggliest of pinks tonight as a quad of us (natch) went to the midnight showing of Sex and the City. We single types with an inclination toward the girlie lived and loved the series during the HBO years, and I couldn’t wait to catch up with my four favorite faux friends.

I laughed.

I cried.

I giggled.

I sniffled.

I swooned.

I shimmied.

I objectified the men, and I lusted after Miranda’s baubles.

And.

I get to see it again on Saturday.

* * * * * *

On Summer Break

2008-05-28T05:53:00.002-04:00

Photo Credit: Favorite Boy

I'll be back next week — relaxed, refreshed, ready to write and read blog posts. I may post a mix tape on Friday, if I'm not sequestered with the jury.

* * * * * *

The Belittling of the Little America Tour

2008-05-19T22:22:00.007-04:00

Remember the excitement over my Little America Tour announcement, soon followed by God mocking and taunting me? Well, once again The Big Guy wins.

The Little America Tour has been whittled and belittled to two shows: Raleigh and Atlanta. No DC or NYC, Boston or Phillie. No visits with my beloveds … no meetups with beloved bloggers … not nearly enough nights dancing to my dearly beloveds.

Frickin’ sucks, doesn’t it? The reasons are many, but only a few are shared:

• The car is still teasing me with a Check Engine light that blinks on and off like Rudolph’s nose.

• Financial unexpecteds have drained the pennies my mechanic left in my savings account.

• I forgot my parents’ fiftieth wedding anniversary falls during that first week, and I want to spend that evening with my mom.

But I’ll get to see my favorite boys with Favorite Boy. And I’ll be dancing my ample a** off in the Atlanta pit.

Still … I’m cuing up “Everybody Hurts,” throwing myself on the bed like Lana Turner in a Douglas Sirk flick, and sobbing like a little girl.

* * * * * *

Mix Tape Friday: Anything You Can Sing

2008-05-16T00:08:00.009-04:00

The adorably studious and flirtiffic Eebie inspired this week’s mix tape. I was mulling over what to feature when he asked if I had 10,000 Maniac’s “Peace Train.” Well, of course I do — and thus Anything You Can Sing, I Can Sing Better was born — the flip side to the recent Rhythmic Hotties mix tape.

We know the originals — but these babes prove that anything you boys can sing, we can sing better. Well, most songs; you can’t best R.E.M.

Björk :: It’s Oh so Quiet

Juliana Hatfield :: Don’t Lie to Me

The Raveonettes :: My Boyfriend’s Back

Liz Phair :: Turning Japanese

Letters to Cleo :: Cruel to Be Kind

The Jody Grind :: Wishin’ and Hopin’

Cyndi Lauper + The Minus 5 :: Midnight Radio

Big Brother & The Holding Company :: Piece of My Heart

No Doubt :: It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)

Queen Latifah, Shades + Free :: Mr. Big Stuff

The Cardigans :: The Boys Are Back in Town

10,000 Maniacs :: Peace Train

Linda Ronstadt :: Willin’

Sam Phillips :: Gimme Some Truth

Anna Waronker :: You’re so Vain

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts :: Crimson and Clover

Joan Osborne :: Love Is Alive

Aretha Franklin :: Jumpin’ Jack Flash

Angie Stone :: Groove Me

Sinéad O'Connor :: Nothing Compares 2 U

Amy Winehouse :: To Know Him Is to Love Him

Joss Stone :: L-O-V-E

Sarah McLachlan :: Wear Your Love Like Heaven

Ivy :: Let’s Go to Bed

Aimee Mann :: What the World Needs Now

Johnette Napolitano feat. Marc Moreland :: Hurting Each Other

Charlie Hunter Trio feat. Norah Jones :: More Than This

Velvet Belly :: The Man with the Child in His Eyes

Shelby Lynne :: The Look of Love

She & Him :: You Really Got a Hold on Me

Cat Power :: (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction

Hem :: Rainy Night in Georgia

k.d. lang :: After the Gold Rush

Lucinda Williams :: Which Will

Shawn Colvin :: (Looking for) The Heart of Saturday Night

Indigo Girls :: House at Pooh Corner

The Beautiful South :: Dream a Little Dream

Cry, Cry, Cry :: Fall on Me

Frente! :: Bizarre Love Triangle

Deborah Harry :: My Last Date (With You)

Neko Case :: Soulful Shade of Blue

Patti Smith :: Midnight Rider

Annie Lennox :: Train in Vain

Sheryl Crow, India.Aire, Lisa Lopes + Liz Phair :: Give a Little Bit

I’ll make it easy for you boys with the one-click zip file.

So many great tunes were cut this week. Yes, you should lash me for not including Siouxsie & The Banshees’ “Dear Prudence” or “The Passenger,” or Dido’s “Fire and Rain,” or any of The Pretenders’ brilliant covers. But at least I spared you Mandy Moore’s cover of “Senses Working Overtime” … for now.

Find the Buck :: Yeah, Peter’s there with Cyndi Lauper and The Minus 5 — but he’s also backing another babe on this tape, along with Mike Mills and Bill Berry. Where are my boys?

Be sure to listen to The Jody Grind’s cover of the Dusty Springfield classic. That lovely voice you hear is the amazing (and one-time Atlantan) Kelly Hogan; the song begins and ends with the late poet Deacon Lunchbox.

You should also listen to She & Him. She is Zooey Deschanel. She proved her pipes in Elf, and the debut CD is quite good.

Trivia Question :: I hope Johnette Napolitano's sublime “Hurting Each Other” sends the same shivers down your spine I get every time I listen. Who suggested the name “Concrete Blonde” to her?

Get all girlie on my comment box and let me know which babelicious cover tunes you’re dying to hear.

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You Tell 'em, Keith!

2008-05-15T04:12:00.001-04:00

Keith Olbermmmm was on a roll last night. In case you missed it:

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Mix Tape Friday: Musical Roots

2008-05-09T00:02:00.003-04:00

My life is ruled by my passions. I absolutely adore or abhor things. The passion that burns brightest — more than baubles, more than Favorite Boy’s four and a quarter above six feet, more than books or movies or margarita swirls — is music. It’s at the heart of everything I do. If I’m awake, I’m singing or humming or chair-dancing. If I’m asleep, my dreams are soundtracked with a wide variety of songs. I can introduce a musical reference in most conversations, and everyone at my company knows I’m the go-to for the best tune to open a presentation.

Where did this passion ignite?

In the womb. My mother has a musical soul — a trait her three children share, that my brother’s kids (especially my niece) have. My childhood memories are filled with the music she loved and we loved.

Mama was a great age for introducing me to all types of music — young enough to love Elvis and The Beatles, old enough to introduce us to Frank Sinatra and the standards she grew up hearing. Through her, I learned to love all genres of music — rock and pop, R&B and country, jazz standards and gospel.

The radio was always playing. If we were in the kitchen, cooking a meal or cleaning up, chances are we were singing. Music was — and is — a big part of our lives. The first concert was a family night out to see Willie Nelson with Waylon Jennings (and Leon Russell on piano). She gave us our first albums, and always took us to spend allowance on the latest 45 we couldn’t live without.

And so, on this Friday before Mother’s Day, I’m proud to publish this mix tape of her favorite songs, songs that remind me of her, songs that will always be special to me because they’re special to her.

The mix kicks off with the first song I remember loving: Ray Charles’ “Hit the Road, Jack.” My mother loved the song, and so I loved it. How could I not live a life of musical obsession when one of my earliest memories is loving that song?

Ray Charles :: Hit the Road, Jack

Little Richard :: Rip It Up

The Beatles :: Revolution

Rare Earth :: Get Ready

Steve Winwood :: Roll with It

Johnny Rivers :: Memphis

Elvis Presley :: That’s All Right, Mama

Van Morrison :: Blue Money

Michael Jackson :: Billy Jean

Parliament :: P. Funk (Wants to Get Funked Up)

Marvin Gaye :: I Heard It Through the Grapevine

Rod Stewart :: Maggie Mae

Carole King :: Smackwater Jack

Squeeze :: Tempted

Barry Manilow :: Copacabana (At the Copa)

Robert Klein + Lucie Arnaz :: They’re Playing Our Song

Lena Horne :: The Lady Is a Tramp

Billy Joel :: Only the Good Die Young

Neil Diamond :: Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show

Dionne Warwick :: I’ll Never Fall in Love Again

Bobbie Gentry + Glen Campbell :: Little Green Apples

ABBA :: Fernando

Fats Domino :: Blueberry Hill

Etta James :: At Last

Frank Sinatra :: Stars Fell on Alabama

Kevin Kline :: La Mer

Bryan Ferry :: Falling in Love Again

Willie Nelson :: I’d Have to Be Crazy

The Platters :: Smoke Gets in Your Eyes

Elton John :: Someone Saved My Life Tonight

Gladys Knight & The Pips :: Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me

Roberta Flack :: Feel Like Makin’ Love

Phoebe Snow :: Poetry Man

Nat King Cole :: Ramblin’ Rose

Leon Russell :: Back to the Island

R.E.M. :: Wichita Lineman

Janis Joplin :: Me and Bobby McGee

Waylon Jennings + Jesse Colter :: Suspicious Minds

Norah Jones :: Come Away with Me

Aretha Franklin :: (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman

Tony Bennett + k.d. lang :: Dream a Little Dream of Me

Simon & Garfunkel :: Flowers Never Bend with the Rainfall

Blood, Sweat & Tears :: And When I Die

Bobby Darin :: Splish Splash

Big Mama Thornton :: Hound Dog

Ruth Brown :: 5-10-15 Hours

Jerry Lee Lewis :: Good Rockin’ Tonight

Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass :: Taste of Honey

Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo + José Carreras :: Funiculì, Funiculà

Download all these gems with one right-click to the zip file and get back to that handmade Mother’s Day card you’ve been working on all day.

"Revolution" kicks off a short set of some of Mama and OM’s favorite dance songs. Damn, those two could work a dance floor. They were perfect partners.

Okay, so chances are my mother has never heard R.E.M.’s cover of the Jimmy Webb classic “Wichita Lineman” … but Glen Campbell already appeared with Bobbie Gentry … and you know I had to work in the boys somehow. It’s a damn good cover.

But she has heard Parliament’s “P-Funk.” We’d often spend a weekend in the mountains during our junior high and high school years. My brother brought along his tape (maybe an 8-track?) of Mothership Connection for one drive, and Mama enjoyed listening to it. I don’t know if it’s wishful thinking in this embellishing Southern brain or a true moment, but I remember her singing along with the chorus. Yep, Mama’s cool.

Squeeze made it on the tape for a different — yet just as cool — reason. My parents, my sister, and I went to Europe in 1984 — a year of intense Tilbrook obsession. I’d read that he deejayed weekly at a club (if memory serves, it was something like The Yow Club) — and I was dying to go. Mama said if I could find it, she’d go with me. Hard as I tried, I couldn’t find it during our three days there. She’s damn cool, that one.

My parents saw They’re Playing Our Song — the musical story of Marvin Hamlisch and Carole Bayer Sager’s love affair — on Broadway in the late 1970s. During the intermission, Ruth Gordon grabbed OM’s arm, saying, “Isn’t this fun?” Mama brought home the soundtrack, and we listened to it all the time. I haven’t listened to the album in ages — but I had quite the Great White Way evening listening to the theme over and over (and over and over, for about 45 minutes) Monday — singing at the top of my lungs, dancing down the hall like a “Step It up and Dance” contestant, jazz-handing with the cat. I’m proud to say I can hold Lucia Arnez’s long note — not beautifully, but I held it.

Mama and I saw the great Lena Horne in The Lady and Her Music at the Fox Theater. We’ve shared some great concerts.

What are your mama's favorite songs?

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God, Now I'm Saying "HA!"

2008-05-08T14:37:00.009-04:00

Thanks to the cousin for this brilliant piece of irreverance!

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This Is Why I Do It

2008-05-06T18:53:00.002-04:00

Blogging is a great release from reality — a place in the virtual world where you can live out your fantasies and obsess about your obsessions. But sometimes you reach someone … touch her soul … make a difference in her life … change her in ways you never expected. Yes, you can affect someone’s life through blogging.

This is why I blog.

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The Inquisition: Meme Style

2008-05-05T18:39:00.009-04:00

My new favorite blogger, The Pagan Sphinx, recently tagged me with one of my favorite types of memes: listmania! I love making lists. I love writing about me. So lists about me … well, that’s just blogging gold, dear readers.

Ten Years Ago
I was working for The Coca-Cola Company and living with the Beloved Ex. Next to our first six months — that phase where everything is golden and giggly and glittery — that was probably our best time together. We were living in a condo with a yardette — an 8’ x 18’ yard with a privacy fence, which we turned into a riot of English garden color. Gardening wasn’t the extent of my Martha Stewartism: For Easter I baked a batch of sugar cookies shaped like eggs; Beloved Ex and I then decorated them like Easter eggs with buttercream frosting and those baking thingies, putting them on a bed of plastic basket grass (note that I even use Martha’s lingo).

Five Things on Today’s To-do List
Notice my priorities.
1. Call mechanic about the latest Check Engine light
2. Find pirate costumes [DONE]
3. Start on Friday’s mix tape [DONE]
4. Balance my checkbook and rework my budget
5. Write this meme post [DONE]

If I Were a Billionaire
So many things I’d do. P.Sphinx didn’t enumerate her If I Weres, but I’m going to give you five What I’d Dos:
1. Set up. I wouldn’t want my family or friends working. Sure, it’s a grand gesture, but it’s also a selfish one: If I decided to up and fly to Madrid, someone has to be able to go with me.
2. Donate. Time and money. I’d give money to organizations that put the majority of their donations in the field, such as Salvation Army and Samaritan’s Purse. I’d also start organizations to get less-privileged children and teens interesting in books and art.
3. Settle. I’d buy a house in the mountains, somewhere in western North Carolina or eastern Tennessee. New York is where I’d rather be; I just adore a penthouse view. And I’d keep a home in Decatur to be near family and friends.
4. Travel. I’d rather stay in fabulous hotels that have homes dotted across the world.
5. Reestablish. By buying my great-grandfather’s old grocery store. I’d start an art gallery collective, where the artists being shown would help man the gallery. It would be named Hamilton’s Market, as it was named in the 1940s and 1950s. We’d have live bands, author readings, all sorts of creative and cultural events.

Three Bad Habits
Boy, it’s hard to come up with three. Okay, to be honest, it’s hard to pick just three.
1. I bite my nails. Sometimes, like now, I can stop and let them grow … but I’m sure I’ll be gnawing again soon.
2. I interrupt. It’s the Coffey conversation style — perfectly acceptable around our dinner tables, but rather rude when chatting with people. I try not to, but then I get a thought in my head and …
3. I procrastinate. So many things can be put off until the last minute, y'know.

Five Places I’ve Lived
Although I always wanted to, I’ve never lived outside Georgia; in fact, other than my two years at the University of Georgia, I haven’t lived outside the metropolitan Atlanta area. Because most of you aren’t familiar with the various Atlanta neighborhoods, I’m going to pretend I’ve lived in these cities:
1. New York City
2. Paris
3. San Francisco
4. Sydney
5. Portland (preferably Oregon, but I’d fake Maine, too)

Five Jobs I’ve Had
I’m going with the non-career gigs:
1. Babysitter Extraordinaire, my neighborhood
2. Denim Shopgirl and Okefenoke Swamp Ridegirl, Six Flags Over Georgia
3. Route Accounting, Coca-Cola Bottling (high school and college summers/Christmas breaks)
4. Public Relations/Public Affairs Director, WRAS (Georgia State University)
5. Bookseller, Bookstar

I’m Tagging
1. The Beloved Ex met the challenge!
2. Write Procrastinator met the challenge!
3. Skyler’s Dad met the challenge!
4. Mathdude met the challenge!
5. Eebie met the challenge!

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Mix Tape Friday: Rhythmic Hotties

2008-05-02T00:36:00.017-04:00

The lovely and talented BeckEye (not too) recently tapped me for the perfect meme: a list of those musicians I think are the cutest and sexiest. What better way to answer her than combining it with a mix tape?

I spent a couple of weeks agonizing about this, winnowing down the list to a manageable twenty-one. I found that those who curl my toes curlier were not classically handsome, but had something that made them sexy as freakin’ hell. Most of them are guitarists, maybe something about the way their fingers tease the strings to get just the right note out of it. Listen to the songs; you'll get it.

What about a man do I find attractive? Height; I love tall men (Favorite Boy is a smidge over 6’4”; I get all smidgey standing next to him.) I adore funny, smart men. Men who are obsessed with music. Laughing eyes always get me. And a sweet ass makes me swoon.

And so I present Beth’s Fantasy Men: The Music Edition. The list isn’t in any particular order, other that something about one man leads to something in the next. Interesting connections, if you catch them.

Michael Stipe
Was there anyone more beautiful than Michael Stipe in the early 1980s? I prefer my Stipe with the wild curly hair. Those eyes … that mouth … mmmmmmmmmm. Funny, weird, mysterious; what’s not to love? I still find him attractive and I love his fashion sense these days, but I gotta go with the earlier version for my sexual fantasies. Could have had a shot at him back in those days, too. Maybe.

R.E.M. :: Kohoutek

Golden Palominos feat. Michael Stipe :: Boy (Go)

Peter Buck
Peter, on the other hand, just can’t pull off long tresses; I prefer my Buck cropped. He’s the kind of man who gets more handsome as he gets older. Well, maybe not; he was pretty f*cking hot back in the 1980s and 1990s, too … as long as his hair was tame. He hits all the marks above: Tall, check. Smart and funny: check, check. Obsessed with music: hells, yeah. If only he were as obsessed with moi …

R.E.M. :: Man-sized Wreath

Robyn Hitchcock & The Egyptians :: Madonna of the Wasps

Mike Mills
Not the cutest member of R.E.M. … but he had a short hot period during the Automatic for the People era. After Porter Wagoner and Gram Parsons, nobody rocks a Nudie suit better than Mike. Warren Zevon (and many a music critic) have declared him R.E.M.’s secret weapon; he’s a musical genius. Got a bit tipsy with my friend Joe at a Peter Buck/Kevn Kinney benefit in 1991, and stood behind Mr. Mills’ left shoulder all night, pretending to be his girlfriend. Surprisingly, I’ve never been slapped with a restraining order.

R.E.M. feat. Mike Mills on lead vocals :: Superman

Mike Mills :: Roadrunner

Paul McCartney
He was the first boy I loved. He set the stage for my visual taste in men for much of my life: dark hair, bit of a baby face, cute and snarky. Since I first fell for him when I was five, he seemed tall, so he probably contributed to that fixation, too. I look at photos of Macca today and still swoon a bit. Yeah, he’s showing a bit of age — but he still makes my heart skip a mini-beat.

The Beatles :: I Saw Her Standing There

Wings :: Arrow Through me

Nick Lowe
Nick’s the Jesus of Cool in my music bible. I’ve always thought Nick was handsome — back in the seventies, as pictured here, and today, with that lovely white hair. I saw him last week — damn amazing show. He still has it. If you didn’t get last year’s At My Age, I recommend you hit iTunes now; “I Trained Her to Love Me” is one of the tracks from the album. Have you heard Johnny Cash’s cover of “The Beast in Me”? Will tear out your heart. My cool cred: Nick and I share a birthday.

Nick Lowe :: The Beast in Me

Nick Lowe :: I Trained Her to Love Me

Elvis Costello
Don’t ick this choice. Elvis Costello oozes sexuality. Watch his eyes; so much humor and intelligence and life in those irises. Is there anyone who loves music more than him? He had pieces in Vanity Fair’s music issue two years running — one a list of his favorite album (our tastes are very similar; I hope he comes a-calling when he tires of Ms. Krall), the other a mix tape for 24 hours in New York City. Brilliant. I think, next to R.E.M., I’ve seen Elvis live more than anyone. I was supposed to see him on Monday, but his show has been postponed due to the concert hall being damaged by the tornadoes. Elvis, come see me soon!

Elvis Costello & The Imposters :: When I Was Cruel No. 2

Elvis Costello :: Green Shirt

Glen Tilbrook
I’ve had a crush on Glen Tilbrook since I heard my first Squeeze song in 1979. He has Paul McCartney’s baby face and turn of a witty phrase — with a more angelic voice. Saw Glenn live about 18 months ago, and he’s just as charming and snarky and funny as he was during his Squeeze days. I must confess that the only time I’ve flashed boobs at a concert was at a Squeeze show at the Fox Theater in 1985; he still deserves that honor.

Squeeze :: Black Coffee in Bed

Glen Tilbrook :: Genitalia of a Fool

Gram Parsons
Beautiful, an absolutely beautiful man. My fellow Georgian made the Nudie suit cool for non-country artists. He brought twang to rock music. He discovered Emmylou Harris. He partied with Keith Richards. His death gave us one of the best stories in rock. And, damn, could Gram sing. “She” has been on my Top 100 list for decades; never was there a more lovely song using just pronouns. He sang a great cover of "Wild Horses" while with Flying Burrito Brothers.

Gram Parsons :: She

Flying Burrito Brothers :: Wild Horses

Keith Richards
I figure eighty percent of you are cringing over this choice. But don’t. I have dreams about musicians all the time … and Keef is always the sweetest beau in that world. He’s funny. He was cute, before the drugs aged him and ravaged his face. He’s one of my favorite guitarists of all time, and I love his singing voice. (Favorite Boy loves him, too ... but don't most guys?) He gives Mick all sorts of sh*t. “Little T&A” gets me all distracted and naughty. And, c’mon, has anyone had more fun with life than Keith Richards?

The Rolling Stones :: Happy

Keith Richards :: You Don’t Move Me

Jeff Buckley
Jeff Buckley should be on every woman’s list of sexiest musicians. Swoonably handsome (the photo here isn't the greatest; even rock gods have bad hair days, I guess) — with pipes that could break your heart — and fan-f*cking-tastic guitar work. How many male artists can cover Zeppelin, Nina Simone, Schoolhouse Rock, and Edith Piaf? It still breaks my heart that he died so young. Can’t help but wonder what could have been next for his place on the CD shelf.

Jeff Buckley :: Hallelujah

Jeff Buckley :: So Real

Nels Cline
Wilco has been energized since Nels Cline joined them on lead guitar. He blows me away with every performance. Scrivener and I saw Wilco in Mobile in early March, and he was blistering hot. He made wonderfully noisy songs like “I Am Trying to Break Your Heart” his own. Before their set, he joined opener John Doe on “Gimme Shelter” — and his guitar solo left me shivering. “Just a Kid,” from the SpongeBob Squarepants movie soundtrack, was the first song he performed with Wilco. Cute, isn’t he?

Wilco :: Impossible Germany

Wilco :: Just a Kid

Scott McCaughey
Ah, Mr. McCaughey. Peter Buck’s BFF, the Ron Wood of R.E.M., rocking those Ian Hunter sunglasses, having a damn good time. He’s the happiest rocker I’ve watched on stage. He writes great pop songs; y'all should be buying all his records. Cool cred: Paul Westerberg hired The Young Fresh Fellows to play at his wedding. More cool cred: Scott's bandmate and lead guitarist in The Minus 5 is our beloved Peter Buck (sadly, cropped from this photo shot at Athens' Georgia Theater). Even more cool cred: He wrote something very cool on my niece's T-shirt.

The Young Fresh Fellows :: I Wonder What She's Doing Tonight

The Minus 5 :: Cigarettes, Coffee, Booze

Lyle Lovett
When the news about Julia marrying Lyle hit the wires, I was one of the few who thought she got the better end of that deal. Lyle has great style; clothes hanf on him beautifully. Great eyes. You’ve seen the top of my mop, so you know I love his hair. Great on stage, great in movies. Bet he’s great in bed, too. Lyle also writes great songs, but here are my two favorite covers: The Dead’s “Friend of the Devil” (Lyle never sounded lovelier, and this song takes me to a lovely moment in my life) and Guy Clark’s “Step Inside This House” (a perfect song).

Lyle Lovett :: Friend of the Devil

Lyle Lovett :: Step Inside This House

Guy Clark
Guy Clark is the epitome of A Man — a Texan, to be exact. Nobody rocks the workshirt/faded jeans/boots look better than he. And he’s a Songwriter — thirty-plus years writing four-minute stories. And thirty-plus years running with pals like Larry Mahan, Jerry Jeff Walker, the late Townes Van Zandt, and Rodney Crowell. The two songs here are more recent, from the nineties — but I encourage you to check out his work from the seventies. If you like Austin singer-songwriters and you enjoy a good story, you'll love Guy Clark.

Guy Clark :: Baby Took a Limo to Memphis

Guy Clark :: Baton Rouge

Warren Zevon
You know I love him. You know I’ve kissed him (I really need to tell that story one day). He was too short for my standards (he was shorter than I), but his flirty nature, the way he’d cock his eye, the way he used words and chords more than made up for the missing inches. Damn, I still miss him.

Warren Zevon :: Poor, Poor Pitiful Me

Warren Zevon :: Bill Lee

Pete Yorn
Pete’s just plain pretty. His music hits my Pretty Good scale — not quite Great, but enjoyable all the same. He’s at the top of the list for soundtracks, so he’s recorded some great covers. Here’s his take on Zevon’s “Splendid Isolation.”

Pete Yorn :: Splendid Isolation

Pete Yorn :: Murray

Glen Hansard
Yeah, we’ve all been swooning since we saw Once. But I’ve been harboring the Hansard crush since Swirly Girl and I saw The Swell Season in concert last fall (and we’re going back for more in a couple of weeks). He’s damn handsome — but it’s his personality that won me over. Quite the charming Irish bastard, that one. Funny, too.

Glen Hansard :: Hungry for Your Love

Glen Hansard :: Broken Hearted Hoover Fixer Sucker Guy

Lloyd Cole
Lloyd Cole is one of those who never got the attention he deserved. The handsome devil writes and sings great songs, and his work in the nineties has stood the fickle test of the turntable. He also played bass on Matthew Sweet’s Girlfriend. He doesn’t leave me malcontent, not at all.

Lloyd Cole :: Mr. Malcontent

Lloyd Cole :: Tell Your Sister

David Bowie
I dare you to name a musician more stylish than David Bowie. Man still looks good. We saw him in concert — on the tenth row — maybe three summers ago, and my niece and I spent the evening oohing and aahing over his still-got-itness.

David Bowie :: China Girl

David Bowie :: Golden Years

Tom Verlaine
Of Tom Verlaine, Patti Smith once said, “Tom plays guitar like a thousand bluebirds screaming.” Isn’t that the best description of his playing style? One of the best punk guitarists — and definitely the cutest. Added bonus: I get to include “Marquee Moon” on a mix tape.

Television :: Marquee Moon

Tom Verlaine :: A Town Called Walker

Thurston Moore
Thurston eeks coolness — he’s 6’6” — he did a book on mix tapes before Rob Sheffield — he’s one of a small handful of folks to sing on an R.E.M. album — and he was on Gilmore Girls. Kim Gordon is one lucky woman. “Incinerate” is one of my favorite songs of the last couple of years — but I’ve included it on too many mix tapes. These two tracks are more than worthy to go on a hottie mix tape. You gotta love a man with punk sensibilities who can cover The Carpenters (my favorite one from their catalog, by the way) and cover it damn well. Spine shivers on this one.

R.E.M. feat. Thurston Moore :: Crush with Eyeliner

Sonic Youth :: Superstar (Carpenters cover)

If this list is too hot to handle individually, get ‘em all at once with the zip file.

Okay, girls and boys — who are your hottest musicians?

I’m off to fan myself and fantasize …

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God Said "HA!"

2008-04-29T20:39:00.011-04:00

The Little America Tour is coming soon — just five or six weeks away. And, boy, am I looking forward to it. An escape from my adult life and stresses. Me, the Beetle, the iPod, the road. Friends at every stop, bloggers at every cocktail bar. And R.E.M. to curl my toes at night. Yep, it’s a dream come true.

But methinks He doesn’t want me to go.

A couple of weeks ago, I did the unthinkable (well, the unthinkable in MY world). While balancing my checkbook, I found I was way ahead cashwise, so I transferred $650 from my check account into my savings account, earmarked for the tour. I paid off my credit cards about 18 months ago, and so far have kept the balances to nil — a balance I want to keep in anticipation of upcoming (and intentionally cryptic) life decisions.

Got up for work the next morning … pop into the previously mentioned Beetle … and nothing happened when I turn the key. The damn car is as dead as Abe Vigoda was once rumored to be. I had wisely reupped with AAA last month, so I called. The heroes showed up in less than thirty. It wasn’t a battery issue as I’d prayed to the God mocking me above. Oh, no. It looked to be the fuel pump. And so my silver Beetle hopped on the back of a tow truck while I hopped in the cab, and we headed to my friendly neighborhood mechanic.

Cost to replace the fuel pump? $661. My vacation savings, just twelve hours old, went back into my checking account.

But my mechanic is a class act. He detailed my car before I picked it up — at no charge.

God Laughs Again

Two days later. I had a fun, jam-packed [continue inserting clichés here] Saturday planned. Favorite Boy was in town, caring for his post-op mama. We went to high school together, so I’d arranged for us to hang with some of our favorites: Janice, my CHS BFF during the day, then dinner with Holly and Randy that night. We were going to spend the day in our old school ‘hood since it’s seen a major revitalization and none of us live there anymore.

Well, so much for plans well made. Hop in the car … turn the key … the same nothing. I quickly called Janice to make alternate plans in my little corner of the world, while the Beetle sat in the drive, mocking me with its disabilities.

The day was great, however. Many mojitas and a martini later, I was relaxed, laughing, enjoying the day, my friends, my man. I have so many great people in my life.

But Monday morning brought another tow-de-force for me. The AAA wrecker met me after breakfast and carted my car back to my mechanic. The wallet got a reprieve; it appeared to be a bad fuel pump. They replaced it at no charge and sent me on my merry way.

Readers wonder: Just how many trite phrases can she squeeze in one blog post?

And so I spent the next several days saying silent prayers as I turned the key. Made it to work … to Nick Lowe … to Tapes ‘n’ Tapes ... to dinner with Favorite Boy. A good week after all.

Okay, Yahweh, It’s No Longer Funny

Turn the calendar to this past Saturday. I’m watching the news and eating lunch before meeting Swirly Girl at an arts festival. The weekend anchor mentions that the Dubya rebates will be direct-deposited in the coming days. I think, “I can transfer that cash into my vaca-savings account, and my balance will be where it was last week.”

One hour later, I’m dressed and ready to fill my pockets with new baubles and unnecessary plastic objects. Pop in the car … turn the key … nothing happens. A-f*cking-gain. The Lord obviously heard my vacation savings plan, and continued his toying. Is this Groundhog Day: The Musical?

I slam the car door … call Favorite Boy to whine and snivel … and walked to the nearest MARTA station. Swirly Girl knew how to turn that frown into a smile, taking me out for post-baubling swirls. Nothing like tequila and sangria to relax a carless girl.

So, we’re duplicating Monday. I really am beginning to feel like Bill Murray. Mechanic David apologizes and promises to install a cross. I wait, gnawing nails and calculating just how much I can afford to pay to have my car’s internal organs rebuilt. (I come up with $57.28.) The MD calls late in the afternoon to let me know they can’t figure out what’s burning up fuel pumps. They’re going to take apart my fuel system to see if there’s something wrong in my tank.

“Is there anyone who hates you enough to put sugar in your tank?” he asks.

Sugar in my bowl, yes. My tank? No.

And so they keep my car overnight, while I spend the evening saying shiva to my vacation plans. I start tentatively canceling the week’s dinner plans … fill Favorite Boy’s text message inbox with car lamentations … and gnaw on the few remaining nails.

I get The Call at 2 p.m. this afternoon. Volkswagen has finally ‘fessed up that there’s a bad lot of fuel pumps out there; several VWs have landed again and again at the dealer in the last several days.

New fuel pump is installed. Car is running.

But I’m still saying prayers. And wondering what else He has planned to f*ck with my Little America Tour.

* * * * * *

Calling Clinton and Stacey

2008-04-27T20:34:00.005-04:00

Last week was a rough one. A couple of highs — Nick Lowe and Ron Sexsmith at Variety Playhouse, dinner with Favorite Boy — but most of it was soul-sucking minutes dealing with car problems and work blandness and crap. What better way to close those 168 suck-ass hours than hitting a concert?

And so I went with Scrivener to see Tapes ‘n’ Tapes. Drained and limp, I donned the most comfortable clothes I could grab: faded jeans and Avias, R.E.M. T-shirt over a longsleeved white one. Popped the lenses, put on my glasses, slung my orange Nepalese messenger bag over my shoulder, and I was off to The Earl.

Ready to groove … casually

The opening act was White Denim, a garage band from Austin. Scrivener and I kept trying to guess the age of the bass player — who looked like the bastard child of Mike Mills and my friend Renae. If he was twenty, I want the name of his moisturizer.

Tapes ‘n’ Tapes hit the stage around 11:20, and I hit the bar. While ordering my cocktail of choice (bottled water; did I mention it was a rough week?), a guy grabbed my arm and told me he loved our opening set. When I looked at him quizzically, he said, “Aren’t you the bass player?”

Um, no. I have two decades and two tits on the bass player.

Mama’s right, I guess. I need to wear lipstick whenever I go out.

* * * * * *

Mix Tape Friday: The Wizard of Oz

2008-04-25T00:02:00.007-04:00

It appears that Fridays are no longer my own. Beloved Aussie blog vivant Mountjoy, from Ribbed for Your Pleasure, recently retired from the blogworld (something about continuing life as a grown-up), and asked to host a mix tape as his e-swan song. I didn’t want to start an international incident, so I'm giving him my page for the day. Mountjoy, throw some tunes on the barbie and get this mix tape rolling.

Okay, Coffey addicts, welcome to a special Down Under edition of the Friday Mix Tape. Beth has kindly agreed to let me mix up the tunes this week, and in doing so has given me the chance to put a compilation of home grown music from Australia and New Zealand out there for your enjoyment. Couple that with the fact that today is ANZAC Day (the down under equivalent of Memorial Day, when we celebrate our war dead) and I hope you will take this slice of Southern Hemisphere hospitality and enjoy.

I make no apologies for the bias of this collection — it is retro and fairly clichéd, but it’s also a cross-section of the music that makes me proud to be an Aussie, and at the same time sad that a lot of these acts never went on to bigger and better things. It’s a safe bet that if you aren’t from these parts of the globe, you will have missed a lot of this magic. Many of these tracks were staples heard on the radio when I was a teenager growing up in Sydney in the 1970s, and although the majority have disbanded, most still get plenty of radio airplay today.

Editor’s Note: The track listing is chronological so that you can sit back, listen, and experience Mountjoy’s life and maturation via his homeland’s turntable. I've been listening to the mix all week, and feel more worldly and aurally educated than I did a week ago. Oh, and the songs are awesome.

I’ve tried to avoid the obvious choices — so while INXS are present, you’ll hear “Burn for You” from The Swing, the album many Aussies think is their best, capturing them at their prime before they hit the big time with Listen Like Thieves and Kick. Cold Chisel’s “Khe Sanh” is my concession to public opinion — this song is the unofficial national anthem for a generation, spoiled only by over-saturation on the radio even today, some 30 years since its original release. Not all of you will find a song like “Tenterfield Saddler”— an autobiographical song, almost country & western, by the late Peter Allen (who was a master songwriter, penning Olivia Newton John’s “I Honestly Love You,” also part of the list today) — to your taste, but to hear the man who is probably best known for the flamboyant “I Go to Rio” singing so soulfully about his life story is a timeless.

Making the song choices for this list was incredibly hard; nearly every act represented here has a fistful of songs I wish I could share. The best I can do is to give you a taste, and hope maybe you’ll find your own diamonds within this grab bag. So from Johnny O’Keefe’s 1959 cover version of the Isley Brother’s “Shout,” all the way through to Powderfinger’s 2007 hit “Lost and Running,” I invite you to sit back, download, and enjoy some of the best pop and rock music Down Under has had to offer in the past half a century.

Johnny O’Keefe :: Shout

The Easybeats :: Friday on My Mind

Daddy Cool :: Eagle Rock

Billy Thorpe & The Aztecs :: Most People I Know (Think That I'm Crazy)

Peter Allen :: Tenterfield Saddler

Stevie Wright :: Evie (Part 1)

Olivia Newton John :: I Honestly Love You

Skyhooks :: Living in the 70s

Sherbet :: Howzat!

Jon English :: Hollywood Seven

Dragon :: April Sun in Cuba

Cold Chisel :: Khe Sanh

Ignatious Jones :: I’m Not Like Everybody Else

The Angels :: Marsellies

Australian Crawl :: The Boys Light Up

Mental as Anything :: Berserk Warriors

Men at Work :: Who Can It Be Now

The Church :: Almost With You

Splitz Enz :: Six Months in a Leaky Boat

The Divinyls :: Boys in Town

Midnight Oil :: Power and the Passion

INXS :: Burn for You

Mondo Rock :: Come Said the Boy

Mi-Sex :: Down the Line

Jimmy Barnes :: I’d Die to Be with You Tonight

Do-Ré-Mi :: Man Overboard

Paul Kelly :: To Her Door

The Go Betweens :: Streets of Your Town

Richard Clapton :: Deep Water

Hunters and Collectors :: Throw Your Arms Around Me

John Farnham :: That’s Freedom

Hoodoo Gurus :: 1000 Miles Away

Crowded House :: Weather with You

Noiseworks :: Hot Chilli Woman

Weddings Parties Anything :: Father’s Day

Wendy Matthews :: The Day You Went Away

Kylie Minogue :: Cowboy Style

Delta Goodrem :: In This Life

Powderfinger :: Lost and Running

It may take days to get to Australia — but you can get there aurally in a snap with this handy zip file. It extracts file counterclockwise, however.

Beth will be back to mixing tapes next week — tapes with R.E.M. tunes, no doubt.

* * * * * *

A Doctor’s Note

2008-04-22T17:55:00.001-04:00

Nope, I haven’t run off to stalk Michael Stipe. Nor have I gone all Luddite on you. Or died.

I have blogger’s elbow. My right elbow aches like a mutha-(shut your mouth!) these days, thanks to long hours spent writing in my cubicle. It hurts when I’m in the keyboard position, so I’ve been staying away from Al Gore’s Internet in the evenings.

For those of you who haven't read the entire Cup chronicles, during daylight hours I’m a corporate communicator — which means I write newsletters and annual reports, announcements and posters, reports and presentations, anything that needs to be read by my coworkers. Translation: I write a lot.

Yeah, I know; lame excuse. But at least you get free music every Friday. Watch for my triumphant return to the blogworld — here and in your comment boxes — in the coming days.

* * * * * *

Mix Tape Friday: Left of the Dial (Side B)

2008-04-18T00:02:00.009-04:00

Today’s post was mixed together and written by Tenacious S. It’s a great homage to her college radio years — and the songs kick aural ass! Enjoy it. Praise her here and on her blog; she deserves it.

Take it away, Tenacious S!

A Love Song for College Radio: 1984–88

I think all of us are a collage influenced by those we’ve known throughout our lives. Some periods of our lives allow us to be more open to influence, changing us as we interact with others, seeing and hearing the world the way that they do. For me, college was that time and my years in college radio influenced more than just what I listened to. Music to an avid music fan speaks volumes about who they are and what moves them.

WCAL and WUSC presented me with the opportunity to meet some amazing people and for their influence to expand my own musical vocabulary. There was music that I loved that I brought with me to my experience at the stations and music that I learned to love through the passion of my friends. This is a love song to my friends from a time gone by and to the music that has shaped who I am today.

SIDE 1: The WCAL Years (1984–86)

Porl Thompson, Joy, Julianne (WCAL's fearless GM), Lol Tolhurst, and me backstage after The Cure's Head on the Door Tour show in Detroit.

Hüsker Dü :: Hate Paper Doll

Phil and Derek
I started doing college radio because I listened to Phil and Derek’s show, and they invited my roommate, Jeanne, and me down to the station to hang. Best choice of my life.

The Jesus & Mary Chain :: The Hardest Walk

Me
One of the perks of working at the station was reviewing new albums. I remember flopping this one onto the turntable and feeling my brain vibrate in a way I never knew it could. It felt a little dirty, but it felt so good.

Tones on Tail :: Performance

Dwayne
Dwayne was one of my good friends and was responsible for spoon feeding me Bauhaus and its derivatives. If you ever want to know what my brain actually sounds like, well, this is it.

The Cure :: A Night Like This

Julianne
Julianne was the General Manager of our little station. More than once, we hopped into a car and drove some crazy distance to see a show. We had the very good fortune of scoring backstage passes for The Cure’s Head on the Door tour show in Detroit and got to meet the band. They were really nice guys and liked our trench coats. I swear I have never blown anything up. It was only a fashion statement.

The Smiths :: There Is a Light That Never Goes Out

Chad
Chad loved The Smiths. I loved The Smiths. Lulu loved The Smiths. Coaster Punchman loved The Smiths. Chad almost died of heatstroke at The Aragon Ballroom at their show, but damn, it was amazing. That Morrisey guy is quite a frontman!

Lloyd Cole & The Commotions :: Brand New Friend

Me
Lloyd Cole is everything that was good about college radio in the ‘80s. You could write a good song and people would play it. No corporate pizzazz was needed. Makes me feel all warm and fuzzy every time I hear this album.

The Jazz Butcher :: The Devil Is My Friend

Dwayne
Dwayne is double-billed because he was probably the most influential person in the development of my musical taste. I think I still have the notes Dwayne gave me from the cassettes he would make for me. There were smiley faces next to songs he really loved. This was one of them.

The Suburbs :: Love Is the Law

Jeanne
Jeanne was my very best friend at WCAL and at Calvin. She was from Minneapolis, and The Suburbs defined that city for me at the time. She was my partner on my very first show. At first, she did the talking and I was DJ girl spinning the records, but soon I figured it out and was able to do two things at once and we went our separate ways.

Red Hot Chili Peppers :: True Men Don’t Kill Coyotes

Brent
Brent was the Music Director my first year at the station. He had just spent a lot of time in LA and came back with this cool record from this cool unknown band. Brent taught me a lot about how to program a station and how to deal with the labels.

Misfits :: Where Eagles Dare

Mark
Technically a song reissued in a year that I was in college, Mark loved this and everyone knew he was a huge Misfits fan. Truth be known, I was a huge Mark fan, but I am only 5’1’’ and Mark the last he measured himself was 6’7”. Folks, I’m just saying, there’s not enough love in the world that will fix that problem.

SIDE 2: The WUSC Years (1986–88)

Yes, I changed schools just to work at a better college radio station. I am that smart!

Me in my room during my WUSC years.
What was important to me? I wonder?
[Editor's Note: Check out the blue poster to TenS' right.]

Sisters of Mercy :: Dominion/Mother Russia

Vanessa
Vanessa was a cool chick. We had a lot in common. We were both English majors, we both liked a lot of the same music, we both, uh, liked a lot of the same boys.

Violent Femmes :: Kiss Off

Lulu
OK, this might seem a little out of order, but Lulu did figure into my college radio career. I listened to what she listened to as well. Lu liked the twangier stuff. I liked the crunchier stuff. The only time I have ever heard Lulu go silent was when I handed her the microphone at the station. Who knew?

The Flaming Lips :: One Million Billionth of a Millisecond on a Sunday Morning

Seana
God bless Seana for turning me onto some of the more psychedelic-type bands. Seana, at the time, loved really garagey-sounding bands. She also has one of the best laughs on the planet.

The The :: Sweet Bird of Truth

Zork
Zork, a.k.a Bill, had amazing taste in music and an album collection that I lusted after. Plus, I believe he had military base privileges to buy beer on Sunday, which was a problem in South Carolina.

Hoodoo Gurus :: Hell for Leather

Heather
Heather was my best friend at the station and in life in South Carolina. Our house was called the Hoodoo Hut, probably because Heather loved the Hoodoo Gurus — and why not?

XTC :: Grass

Chris
Chris worked at the station and because I ended up living in a house with him, I ended up dating his brother (later discussion). Chris’ room was across from mine and I was always glad that Chris loved XTC as much as I did.

Marshall Crenshaw :: The Distance Between Us

Jon
Brother of Chris, bass player in a local band named Bedlam Hour, love of my life my last year in college. I almost get a little misty-eyed when I think about this song and I think about Jon. Jon was a smart, gentle guy that graced my life for a year. I often feel bad about how it ended and wish him well in my heart. Although we never really speak anymore, he left his love of Marshall Crenshaw with me. That’s a pretty great gift.

New Model Army :: 51st State of America

Johnny
Johnny (Fish) was destined for greatness. He was the reason I transferred down there. I heard him on a panel at the convention and he loved college radio the way that I did and was pretty much my guru. He seemed to understand that a band could be cool and make money at the same time, and he was ready to promote that idea. Shocking, I know.

Beastie Boys :: Brass Monkey

Jeannie
Jeannie was and is one of the coolest girls I have ever known. She was one of the first people I knew who had a Mohawk and now she is a roller-derby girl. Now that’s cool!

American Music Club :: At My Mercy

Janet
If Johnny was the guru, Janet was the Yoda. She was the graduate student who broke all the rules and worked at the station even when she wasn’t supposed to. Janet was a genius in school and had what I thought to be very sophisticated musical taste.

Ministry :: Everyday Is Halloween

Me
Dragged this with me from Chicago to wherever I landed. Kind of was my credo at the time.

Jason & The Scorchers :: Golden Ball and Chain

Paige
Paige was a Chicago girl who embraced the South with all her heart. I think of Paige and I think of alternative country music. Trust me when I tell you, this was an acquired taste for me.

The Replacements :: I Will Dare

Michael
Michael and I trained together at WUSC and did our on-air test together. In my mind, at the time, he was the physical manifestation of my inner rock self.

Naked Raygun :: Peacemaker

Me
How could I talk about college radio or me without mentioning Naked Raygun? They were my local heroes and one of my very first interviews. I had to fight with Michael to use them for my on-air test. They are still one of my very favoritest bands of all time. Never bland, full of big crunchy guitar and Chicago swagger. They are my heart and soul.

The Cult :: Wildflower

Vinnie
Vinnie was my roommate and good friends with Chris. He was literally deaf in one ear, but it didn’t ever stop him from playing what he loved at 11.

Take the easy route to the mid-1980s: download the zip file.

* * * * * *

Mix Tape Friday: Left of the Dial (Side A)

2008-04-11T00:17:00.003-04:00

A Love Song for College Radio: 1980–81

I’ve waxed nostalgically a time or eleven about my college radio days. It was one of the best times of my life. It was all about being young with no responsibilities, discovering new bands, going to a music club nearly every night of the week, dancing the days away, spending my days at the station instead of in class. Many of the records from my time there — 1980–81 — are still among my favorites. I was there at a good time — post-punk and new wave ruled our airwaves. I wish I could put in writing how thrilling it was the first time I dropped the needle on The Pretenders' debut album, or Roxy Music's cover of "In the Midnight Hour" (still my favorite Bryan Ferry song), or the first Psychedelic Furs album (we gave away a hot-pink — a psychedelic — faux fur coat).

Yes, a Side B is coming next Friday. Covering the college radio years of 1984–88, it’s Tenacious S' contest-winning mix tape! And it’s a groovy one, kids. We’ll cover 1982–83 later this spring; some amazing songs came out during those two years.

My college radio station was Georgia State University’s WRAS — 88.5 on your FM dial. Album 88 has long been considered one of the top college stations in the country, and is the only college station broadcasting on 100,000 watts. (Somewhere I have a mix tape that starts with R.E.M.’s Mike Mills’ congratulating WRAS on getting those 100,000 watts.)

Sadly, I never had a shift, never got to play deejay. I spent 1980–81 as the station’s public relations/public affairs director, coordinating giveaways (which means I was on the guest list at the Agora Ballroom and 688 Club every night of the week) and PSAs. I desperately wanted a shift … but I talk way too fast for radio … and when I slow down to a normal speed … well, I sound rather drawly. I did get my FCC license, though.

Today I finally get to be a WRAS jock. The record is paused at the quarter turn, ready to spin. And so I present 44 songs about 88.5.

The Jam :: That’s Entertainment!

The Clash :: The Magnificent Seven

The Pretenders :: Tattooed Love Boys

Talking Heads :: Once in a Lifetime

Graham Parker :: Endless Night

English Beat :: Tears of a Clown

Mission of Burma :: Academy Fight Song

The B-52’s :: Quiche Lorraine

Roxy Music :: In the Midnight Hour

Blondie :: Rapture

XTC :: Generals and Majors

Buzzcocks :: Everybody’s Happy Nowadays

Peter Gabriel :: I Don’t Remember

R.E.M. :: Radio Free Europe (original Hibtone single)

Soft Boys :: Queen of Eyes

Siouxsie & The Banshees :: Spellbound

Gang of Four :: What We All Want

Devo :: Girl U Want

The Replacements :: More Cigarettes

Dead Kennedys :: Holiday in Cambodia

Spizzenergi :: Where’s Captain Kirk?

Swimming Pool Q’s :: Rat Bait

The Specials :: Rat Race

X :: Los Angeles

10,000 Maniacs :: Groove Dub

Altered Images :: I Could Be Happy

Squeeze :: Pulling Mussels (From the Shell)

Rockpile :: Teacher Teacher

The Police :: Spirits in the Material World

Joy Division :: Love Will Tear Us Apart

Patti Smith Group :: Dancing Barefoot

Psychedelic Furs :: Imitation of Christ

Pylon :: Crazy

Wreckless Eric :: Broken Doll

Split Enz :: One Step Ahead

The Stranglers :: Golden Brown

Suicide :: Johnny Dance

Oh-OK :: Whore Boy

Young Marble Giants :: Salad Days

Elvis Costello & The Attractions :: New Amsterdam

Bill Nelson :: Do You Dream in Colour

Method Actors :: Rang-A-Tang

The Basics :: Sexual Object

The Thrills:: Hey! (Not Another Face in the Crowd)

The Ramones:: Rock ‘n’ Roll High School

Who has time to right-click forty-four times? Grab the zip file instead. The zip file includes a bonus track: the most requested song from my WRAS days — “Sweet Transvestite.” Yeah, I know it came out in 1975 — but for some reason its popularity never waned with our listeners.

To keep today's tape at 44 for 88.5, I had to cut some great songs from my college radio era: Joe Jackson and The dB's ... Joan Armatrading's "Me Myself I" (the first free album I got at the station, with English Beat's I Just Can't Stop It!) ... Georgia's The Brains and The Producers ... maybe there's a part two that must be mixed.

Putting together this mix tape brought back some great concert memories: The B-52’s at the Agora Ballroom, Fred walking one of those invisible dog leashes during “Quiche Lorraine” … Talking Heads at Agora for their Remain in Light tour (and I could have partied with them until dawn, had I left my friends on the floor and gone to the VIP section as invited) … R.E.M. at 688, opening for Gang of Four … local bands like The Basics and Swimming Pool Q’s and The Method Actors. It was a fun time to be in Atlanta.

We had some great in-studio moments and interviews. My favorite? Split Enz performing in the studio. (Remember their groovy laser-etched vinyl for True Colors?) Is it worth bragging that The Moody Blues’ Justin Hayward held my hand the entire time he was in the studio promoting his solo album? Or is that as lame as my Eddie Money moment?

You know, it may be worth it to register for some classes and finally get that shift.

* * * * * *

Little America

2008-04-08T22:16:00.008-04:00

I have friends up and down the Eastern Seaboard, and for years I’ve dreamed of taking a roadtrip to drop in on each one for a day or two. I’d get to spend time with my beloveds — and have time to myself, the sunroof open, the iPod blaring, the mind relaxing. I love roadtrips.

I’ve long fantasized about following R.E.M. on tour, catching as many shows as I can. I want to dance and sing and be twentysomething again. This may be my last chance — plus, Modest Mouse and The National are opening.

Like a Reese’s Cup, I’m combining two fab wannas into one great trip: The Cup of Coffey 2008 Summer Tour.

Here are the tour details:

B. June 10: Raleigh. Favorite Boy and I are going to this show — and we wouldn’t mind some R.E.M.-loving company.

C. June 11: Washington DC. Evil Genius (or maybe it's Evil Evil Genius) says he may be there with Red or Pezda’s Ghost. We’re trying to get Pistols at Dawn to join us — because I’m convinced he secretly loves R.E.M. and hates Journey. I bet I can get him to shoot for a beer, though.

D. June 13: Boston. After DC, I’ll hop in the car and head to Connecticut and BFF Renae’s house. We’ll work our way up to the Boston show, where The Bastard may join us. Who else wants to dance on Tweeter Center grass with us?

E. June 14: Jones Beach. This is a maybe show. I may decide to crash on Renae’s sofa and have some girl time — unless one or seven of you New York-based bloggers want to meet me at the show.

F. June 18: Philadelphia. This is another maybe show, as my Phillie pal may be across the country on business.

G. June 21: Atlanta. The last night of my tour, appropriately back at home. Scrivener, Swirly Girl, and I have pit tix. It’s gonna be a night of whirling dervishes.

I can promise this will be a night you’ll remember for years … if only to experience Beth in R.E.M. Mode.

I’m getting lawn tickets — which means you can join me if you’re going to be in North Carolina, or DC, or Boston, or New York, or Phillie in June. We’ll dance. Cocktail. Dish and laugh. And enjoy one helluva great show.

* * * * * *

Mix Tape Friday: The Ones I Love

2008-04-04T00:02:00.006-04:00

And that, of course, would be R.E.M.

We’ve been in Acceleration this week. In case you didn’t know, R.E.M.’s fourteenth studio album, Accelerate, was released this week to great reviews and great dance moves up and down my hallway.

Psssssst: Have you heard the news?

Secondly, Saturday marks the twenty-eighth anniversary of the band’s first performance — a big day on the calendars of us R.E.M. nerds. Can you imagine doing the same job with the same folks for nearly thirty years?

This has been a fun week for me — and I want you to join in the fun, to understand why I’ve loved R.E.M. totally and completely for most of my adult life. To help you get in that Athens frame of mind, here are fifty of my favorite non-album tracks — B-sides, fan club singles, cuts from soundtracks and tribute albums, a couple of live tracks.

Check in this weekend for one more R.E.M.-centric post — and a big announcement.

Let's start with a love song of sorts to R.E.M., and then dive into the cool tunes.

Pavement :: Unseen Power of the Picket Fence

R.E.M. :: Windout

R.E.M. :: Funtime

R.E.M. :: First We Take Manhattan

R.E.M. :: Burning Down

R.E.M. :: See No Evil

R.E.M. :: Bad Day

R.E.M. :: All the Right Friends

R.E.M. :: After Hours

R.E.M. :: Academy Fight Song

R.E.M. :: Sex Bomb

R.E.M. :: Ghost Riders

R.E.M. :: Chance (Dub)

R.E.M. :: There She Goes Again

R.E.M. :: Wall of Death

R.E.M. :: Memphis Train Blues

R.E.M. :: Adagio

R.E.M. :: Pale Blue Eyes

R.E.M. :: I Will Survive

R.E.M. :: Live for Today

R.E.M. :: Jimmy Crack Corn/Behind Closed Doors

R.E.M. :: Bandwagon

R.E.M. :: Dark Globe

R.E.M. :: The Lions Sleeps Tonight

R.E.M. :: Hot Java

R.E.M. feat. The Muppets :: Furry Happy Monsters

R.E.M. :: Only in America

R.E.M. :: Arms of Love

R.E.M. :: Baby Baby

R.E.M. :: Love Is All Around

R.E.M. feat. Robyn Hitchcock + Billy Bragg :: Tom’s Diner

R.E.M. :: Femme Fatale

R.E.M. feat. Kate Pearson :: Fretless

R.E.M. :: Wicked Game

R.E.M. :: Summertime

R.E.M. :: 2JN

R.E.M. :: Surfing the Ganges

R.E.M. :: The Passenger

R.E.M. :: Tired of Singing Trouble

R.E.M. :: Walter’s Theme

R.E.M. :: Sponge

R.E.M. :: Animal

R.E.M. feat. William S. Burroughs :: Star Me Kitten

R.E.M. :: #9 Dream

R.E.M. :: Jesus Christ

R.E.M. :: Favorite Writer

R.E.M. :: Dream (All I Have to Do)

R.E.M. :: Crazy

R.E.M. :: Wichita Lineman

R.E.M. feat. Bruce Springsteen :: Because the Night

Automatic Baby :: One

Too Accelerated to download each track? Take the shortcut to the zip file.

I could go on … and on … and on about every damn one of these tracks, but I’m trying hard not to bore you with minutiae. But let me point out what a groovy pool of artists R.E.M. has covered: Velvet Underground, Television and Mission of Burma, Big Star and Patti Smith, Leonard Cohen and Richard Thompson, Iggy and Syd — even Athens neighbors Pylon, Magnapop, and Vic Chesnutt.

These songs have me too distracted to continue typing. Think it’s time to Winamp up the room and dance. Hope you love this tape.

* * * * * *

Who Needs Klosterman or Fricke

2008-04-03T06:04:00.003-04:00

when you have Stephen Colbert?

This is one of the best, most insightful — and, well, damn funny — interviews with R.E.M. I’ve ever seen. The Peabodiment of TV news anchors threw some tough questions at my boys, but they held up under all that scrutiny — and made me laugh until I cried.

The boys performed “Supernatural Superserious” — and the performance is on “The Colbert Report” Web site.

I am loving Michael's style these days. The boy knows how to wear a suit, doesn't he?

Acceleration week continues!

* * * * * *

Live from Rockefeller Plaza

2008-04-01T21:28:00.004-04:00

In case you missed R.E.M. this morning on the “Today” show:

Losing My Religion

Supernatural Superserious

It’s a weeklong Accelerate celebration — I guess that’s an Acceleration!

* * * * * *

Accelerate My Heart

2008-04-01T06:57:00.003-04:00

Yeah, okay, maybe the title reeks of hyperbole. But just a little. I haven’t been this excited about a new R.E.M. album since New Adventures in Hi-Fi was released in the fall of 1996.

And today I get to hold Accelerate in my excited little hands!

No more online streaming. The end of leaked MP3s. I’ve downloaded my preordered iTunes, counted down the minutes to the CD clasp. Every moment not spent in meetings will be spent groovin’ to the album.

And I’m gonna rawk!

It’s a short album — but, oh, what my boys can do in thirtysomething minutes. Some say it's a return to the Document days. I think my boys have finally gotten over Bill Berry leaving, and they're having fun playing together again.

Join me in the Accelerate celebration. I hope you caught their interview with Anthony Mason on “Sunday Morning” over the weekend; it was a good interview. R.E.M. is performing on “The Today Show” this morning (which I’ll miss, seeing as I work hard for the money). They’re also scheduled to be on “The Colbert Report” tomorrow night — the first time a band has performed on the show.

Yeah, yeah. Chris Funk battled guitars with Colbert a year or so ago — but it wasn’t the full Decemberists lineup.

It’s going to be a week of R.E.M. An announcement, a love song of sorts, some trivia, great tunes.

Damn, I am one happy girl today.

* * * * * *

Why I Love R.E.M.: Reason #73

2008-03-27T20:13:00.007-04:00

Their brave steps to come out of the closet:

Thank you, cousin Jamey!

While we're in startling announcement mode: There may not be a mix tape ready when you get up in the a.m. Favorite Boy outdid himself with the birthday festivities, and I'm still a bit too swoony to focus on putting the post together. I may get it up by tomorrow evening ... if I don't get too swirled with Swirly Girl, that is.

Don't forget: Accelerate comes out Tuesday, so make plans to line up at your neighborhood record shop early.

* * * * * *

49 for 49

2008-03-25T00:04:00.014-04:00

Today’s my 49th birthday, so I guess it’s time to face the fact: I’m nearly middle-aged.

That's right, I’m going to live and go to concerts until at least my 100th birthday, so I’m not officially middle-aged until next March. Please humor me.

It’s a strange thing, facing the fact that you’ve officially completed the growing-up process and are now headed on the downslope. Will I ever feel grown up? Does that mean I have to start listening to adult contemporary radio?

Let’s not get reflective and doomsdayable. Instead, let’s celebrate with a self-indulgent list.

1. I don’t work on my birthday. I believe it should be a national law — hell, a commandment.

2. I did work once on my birthday, in 1993, as I was flying to San Francisco the following morning. Miserable. No parades, no applause, no balloons, nothing.

3. I will never work on my birthday again.

4. I may forget your phone number, or the type of car you drive, or to get your package to the post office — but I will never forget your birthday.

5. When we reconnected after twenty years, Filegod1 was surprised to learn I still knew his birthday.

6. I quietly celebrate the birthdays of my beloved rock stars by wearing outfits that reflect their personalities and listening to their music throughout their special days.

7. (Why, oh why, hasn’t my neighbor Paste hired me yet? Josh Jackson, please call.)

8. One regular commenter — Renae, the cutie in the blue plaid dress — was at my eighth birthday party.

9. Except for this lovely shot (thanks to the hat and the glasses), I take horrible photos.

10. That’s why you only see the top or back of my curly head.

11. Gawd, I hope I’m really not that washed-out and pie-faced.

12. Nick Lowe and I share a birthday.

13. Favorite Boy and Elvis Costello were born on the same day.

14. If you’re a fellow music geek, you’ll think that’s totally cute, too.

15. I don’t feel old.

16. I feel younger and happier than I did at 39.

17. I guess fifty really is the new thirty. I’m actually looking forward to that decade of my life.

18. Four regular commenters — HollyC, RCofCHS, Filegod1, and Renae — and one (very) occasional commenter (Janice) were at my “surprise” 18th birthday party.

19. Those quotation marks are necessary. My mother let the surprise cat out of the bag because I was moping around over getting dumped.

20. My eyebrows are more gray than black. They’re grayer than the hair on my head.

21. We won’t discuss the gray-to-black ratio on other body parts.

22. Most of the women in my family tend to go blonde instead of gray.

23. I don’t think I can pull off blonde, though, unless I decide to embrace the wallflower side of my personality.

24. I’m currently hoping for the Susan Sontag/Bride of Frankenstein look: a shock of white on the black mane.

25. I have to admit, I like the gray shooting through my hair.

26. So far.

27. I have no desire to be younger, or to go back to a younger phase of my life.

28. I love my age and what I’ve lived through.

29. I just wish my a** had the firm strength of my adult personality.

30. I threw myself one kick-ass thirtieth birthday party. I remember parts of it, too.

31. I ended the party in a completely different outfit — which is interesting when you consider that my duplex apartment had an open floor plan.

32. (Lucky partygoers.)

33. I think I love R.E.M. more than I did most of my lovers.

34. Yeah, I know I’ve written that once or twice (or eighty-three times) — but you should never miss an opportunity to shout about the great love of your life.

35. Their new album — Accelerate — comes out a week from today, so be sure to check in for album updates and tidbits.

36. My 36th birthday was spent with Nick Drake, several bottles of wine, some goat cheese, and meandering drives through the North Georgia mountains.

37. It was my one quiet, reflective birthday — a birthday that marked a new direction in my life.

38. I’ve been at peace and I haven’t been lonely since that March of 1995.

39. I may be 49, but I've lived during six decades.

40. My fortieth birthday was spent in New Orleans — the best place for your fortieth.

41. We dined at K-Paul’s and Emeril’s … drank hurricanes, a lot of wine, a little champagne … hit the voodoo museum and the Blue Dog Gallery.

42. And, appropriately, spent hours snapping photos at the Lafayette Cemetery.

43. (If I were organized, I would have scanned some of those photos for this post … the key word being “If.”)

44. My lips are now enclosed inside parenthetical grooves on my face, as if my mouth is a facial aside.

45. Why do I continue using a magnifying makeup mirror at this wrinkled age?

46. As forty-eight counts out its final minutes, I realize how lucky I am to have my group of loved ones …

47. … the experiences I’ve lived …

48. … true joy for life.

49. Forty-nine is here. Favorite Boy will be here soon. Happy birthday to me!

* * * * * *

Mix Tape Friday: It's My Party!

2008-03-21T06:12:00.012-04:00

And I’ll dance if I want to.

Today’s tape is my birthday party mix. My birthday’s Tuesday, but the celebration begins today with forty-nine favorite songs that get me up offa that thang — you should have seen the dance moves up and down my hall this week! — one song for each glorious year of life.

There’s no big party this year; I’m saving the candles and streamers for next year’s milestone birthday. This year’s celebration will be a party of two. Out of town. With candles and champagne. And probably a bauble purchase or seven.

Since I wanted one tape with my favorite dancing tunes, you’ll see some repeats this week. Added bonus: There isn’t much room for debate since these are *my* favorite dancing songs — although I would like to know some of your favorite get-up-offas.

R.E.M. :: Radio Free Europe

The Replacements :: I Will Dare

Beck :: Black Tambourine

Joe Jackson :: I’m the Man

Andrew W.K. :: We Want Fun

Morris Day & The Time :: Jungle Love

Deee-lite :: Groove Is in the Heart

Pavement :: Stereo

Cloud Cult :: Happy Hippo

The B-52’s :: Mesopotamia

Cameo :: Word Up

Elvis Costello :: Tear off Your Own Head (It's a Doll Revolution)

The Clash :: Radio Clash

Blur :: Song 2

U2 :: Elevation (Tomb Raider Mix)

Elastica :: Connection

The Roots feat. Cody Chesnutt :: Seed 2.0

The Pretenders :: Middle of the Road

The Beatles :: Revolution

Sonic Youth :: Incinerate

Mike Watt feat. Eddie Vedder :: Against the 70’s

Wilco :: Heavy Metal Drummer

Spoon :: Don’t You Evah

Smokey Robinson & The Miracles :: Going to a Go-Go

Soup Dragons :: Divine Thing

The Pixies :: Here Comes Your Man

Prince :: My Name Is Prince

Sugar :: Your Favorite Thing

The Farm :: Groovy Train

The Pipettes :: Dirty Mind

The Jackson 5 :: ABC

Naked Eyes :: Promises, Promises

XTC :: Life Begins at the Hop

David Bowie :: Fashion

Brothers Johnson :: Get the Funk Out Ma Face

Cypress Hill :: Insane in the Membrane

Pylon :: Feast on My Heart

10,000 Maniacs :: Pit Viper

Super Furry Animals :: (Drawing) Rings Around the World

The Gap Band :: You Dropped a Bomb on Me

The Ramones :: Judy Is a Punk

Tone Loc :: Funky Cold Medina

The Whigs :: Right Hand on My Heart

The Raveonettes :: Attack of the Ghost Riders

Kool & The Gang :: Jungle Boogie

Devo :: Uncontrollable Urge

Curtis Mayfield :: Move on up

The Rolling Stones :: Little T&A

George Clinton :: Last Dance

Don’t miss a dance — download the zip file and get your party shoes on the dance floor with me!

Here’s a party favor for you:

R.E.M. :: Supernatural Superserious

Find the Buck: Peter, of course, starts off the tape with “Radio Free Europe” — but there’s a Buck guitar solo in another song. Which one? The first person who guesses correctly gets to suggest two songs for the (very special) April 4 mix tape.

Favorite Boy has been giving me grief about my “Heavy Metal Drummer” obsession. He doesn’t understand why I love this above all Wilco songs; there are, after all, several better ones in the catalog. I just love the happy feeling, the energy of the song — and the lyrics build great visuals in my fuzzy head. And I dance*dance*dance when I hear it.

“I Will Dare” has been one of my favorite songs since Let It Be was released in 1984. Like “Heavy Metal Drummer,” it has great energy — and I always bust out dancin’ on the first note. I also love the line How smart are you? / How old am I? / Let’s count the rings / Around my eyes. Paul Westerberg writes some frickin’ fantastic lyrics, doesn’t he? (BTW, I’m playing “I Will Dare” and chair-dancin’ my chaired ass off while writing this.)

“Happy Hippo” boasts the most fun use of Neil Young ever on record. Who knew Neil could be a dance track?

My Cool Cred: "Revolution" is my mother's favorite Beatles song. The woman can dance when that record is spinning 'round the turntable.

Dance, children. Dance all damn weekend.

* * * * * *

The Movie Quotes Meme

2008-03-19T22:55:00.014-04:00

Meme-rific week continues thanks to the beloved Bad Tempered Barbara, who tapped me for the Movie Quote Meme.

The Rules
1. Here are quotes from 15 of my favourite movies. [Barbara’s Canadian, so she uses the “u” in words like “favourite.” I prefer that spelling, I must admit.]
2. See if you can name the films from whence they were lifted. [“From whence.” Don’t you just love it?]
3. No googling or IMDBing; I'm trusting you on this.
4. I'll post the film names as they’re correctly identified.

Ready, kids? Let’s go to the movies!

1. “What came first, the music or the misery? People worry about kids playing with guns, or watching violent videos, that some sort of culture of violence will take them over. Nobody worries about kids listening to thousands, literally thousands of songs about heartbreak, rejection, pain, misery and loss. Did I listen to pop music because I was miserable? Or was I miserable because I listened to pop music?” — Rob (John Cusack), High Fidelity [Filegod]

2. “I had tried singing once and they threw tomatoes so after the show I had a nice salad.” — Hedwig (John Cameron Mitchell), Hedwig and the Angry Inch [Barbara]

3. “Fasten your seatbelts. It's going to be a bumpy night!” — Margo Channing (Bette Davis), All About Eve [Malcolm]

4. “Let's nuke the bastards.” — President Thomas Whitmore (Bill Pullman), Independence Day [Filegod]

5. “They have to paint me red before they chop me. It's a different religion from ours. I think.” — Ringo, Help! [Bubs]

6. “Dude, I know they were just kids, but we kicked their pube-less asses!” — Jay (Jason Mewes), Dogma [Filegod]

7. “If it had to happen to one of us, why did it have to be you?” — Nicky Ferrante (Cary Grant), An Affair to Remember [Artful Kisser]

8. “I was dreamin'. Dreamin' my d*ck was out and I was checkin' to see if that infected bump on the head of it had filled with pus again. If it had, I was gonna name it after my ex-wife Priscilla and bust it by j*ckin' off. Or I'd like to think that's what I'd do. Dreams let you think like that. Truth was, I hadn't had a hard-on in years.” — Elvis (Bruce Campbell), Bubba Ho-tep [Filegod]

9. “I would be remiss in my duty if I did not tell you that the idea of intercourse ... the act of your firm, young body ... comingling with ... withered flesh ... sagging breasts ... and flabby b-b-buttocks ... makes me want ... to vomit.” — Priest (Eric Christmas), Harold and Maude [Bubs]

10. “Our love for each other was stronger than ever … but I preminisced no return of the salad days.” — H.I. McDunnough (Nicolas Cage), Raising Arizona [Filegod]

11. “It wasn't like they took turns. It was all at once. Every which way. Rather like a marvelous pretzel.” “Ooh. Pretzelingus.”

12. “I'm nice. I really am. Apart from my terrible taste in pie.” — Juliet (Keira Knightly), Love Actually [Filegod]

13. “Oh, l'amour, l'amour, how it can let you down. Hmm. How it can pick you up again.” — Countess DeLave (Mary Boland), The Women [Kat-heel-well]

14. “You know when you hear girls say ‘Ah man, I was so shit-faced last night, I shouldn't have fucked that guy?’ We could be that mistake!” — Seth (Jonah Hill), Superbad [Barbara]

15. “I was taught that my prince would come, and he would be a lawyer, and I would have his children. And on the weekends we would barbecue. And all the other princes and their princesses would come, and they would say, ‘Delicious, delicious.’ Oh, how boring.” — Margaret (Anne Carlisle), Liquid Sky [Sean Wraight]

Since I didn’t include a quote from Clerks, Filegod suggested I include this:

Lights! Camera! Action!
• Erik’s Choice’s Erik
• Gifted Typist’s Gifted keyboardist, Typist
• Pop Culture Dish’s Malcolm
• Sprawling Ramshackle Compound’s Bubs
• When Will I Use This’ Mathman6293

* * * * * *

Me in Six

2008-03-18T23:41:00.007-04:00

Mathman6293 at When Will I Use This? gave me the best challenge so far: write my memoir in six words. Hell, I’m a Southerner; it takes me eleven words just to say hello. But I need a challenge this week.

The Six-word Memoir Rules
1. Write your own six-word memoir.
2. Post it on your blog. Include a visual illustration if you’d like.
3. Link to the person who tagged you.
4. Tag five more blogs — and link ‘em.

I spend my workday working and playing with words, so you’d think this would be easy. When I knew what I wanted to say, the six words came easily:

Music brought my soul to life.

Worshipping the Automatic for the People-like thingie
(Brighton, 1992)

Hmmmm … which loquacious bloggers are up for the challenge? I tap:

• Bliss and Bile’s Chelene has sixed!
• The Road Goes on Forever’s Keith has sixed!
• Land-o-Lulu’s Lulu has sixed!
• Social Zimurgy’s Doc
• Scrivenings’ Scrivener

* * * * * *

Let’s Play Crazy 8s!

2008-03-18T00:02:00.008-04:00

Miss Alex at Fonzie Sox has been patiently awaiting my response to her meme tag — and this is a fun one: Crazy 8s.

8 Things I’m Passionate About
I’m a deep one, aren’t I?
1. R.E.M.
2. My friends
3. Music
4. Baubles
5. Travel
6. Kissing
7. Beautifully written books, beautifully directed movies
8. Laughter

8 Things I Want to Do Before I Die
I posted a similar list a couple of years ago; some things have changed.
1. Drive across the country without a planned itinerary
2. Write a novel and have it published
3. Live in another city
4. Learn how to play guitar
5. Skydive
6. Travel to Australia and Asia
7. BFF Rob Sheffield
8. Party with the NYC bloggers … the Chicago bloggers … the Toronto bloggers … and everyone in between

8 Things I Often Say
I’m a deep one, aren’t I?
1. “It’s baublicious!”
2. “I love R.E.M.”
3. “I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to crash into you.”
4. “He curls my toes.”
5. “I adore Michael Stipe.”
6. “One more swirl, please.”
7. “Ohg*ddammit!” [cursed whenever I drop something or bump into something.]
8. “That’s Peter Buck playing guitar on this song.”

8 Books I’ve Read Recently
I don’t read much during annual report season, so I’m listing some of my 2007 faves.
1. Love Is a Mix Tape, Rob Sheffield
2. I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead: The Dirty Life and Times of Warren Zevon, Crystal Zevon
3. By George, Wesley Stace
4. An Arsonist's Guide to Writers' Homes in New England, Brock Clarke
5. The Yiddish Policemen's Union, Michael Chabon
6. Sin in the Second City: Madams, Ministers, Playboys, and the Battle for America's Soul, Karen Abbott
7. Chuck Klosterman IV: A Decade of Curious People and Dangerous Ideas , Chuck Klosterman
8. Becoming Abigail, Chris Abani

8 Songs I Could Listen to Over and Over
These are the songs I play when I need to dance myself into a good mood.
1. R.E.M.: “Radio Free Europe”
2. The Replacements: “I Will Dare”
3. Wilco: “Heavy Metal Drummer”
4. Prince: “My Name Is Prince”
5. The Clash: “The Magnificent Seven”
6. Al Green: “Take Me to the River”
7. The Rolling Stones: “Little T&A”
8. Marcy Playground: “Sex and Candy”

8 Things That Attract Me to My Best Friends
I have the grooviest group of friends you could imagine.
1. Their passions
2. Their senses of humor
3. Their intelligence
4. Their creativity (yes, HollyC, even you)
5. Their fearlessness
6. Their silliness
7. Their feigned interest when I yammer on about who’s playing on this record and who else he’s played with
8. Their undying love for and loyalty to me

8 Things That Drive Me Crazy
I added this one; it drove me crazy that there were only seven categories in Crazy 8s.
1. Closed-minded people
2. People who are too politically correct
3. The use of “that” when referring to a person [use “who,” people!]
4. Dates who are late [Favorite Boy is always early. Favorite Boy is a dating doll.]
5. A verb that doesn’t agree with its noun
6. Wearing sandals without polish on the toenails (it’s a Southern thing)
7. Drivers who must come to a complete stop to make a right turn
8. Unnecessary quotation marks

8 People I Think Should Go All Crazy 8s on Us
1. Coffeypot’s Beloved Uncle
2. Eating Chicken Vindaloo’s Mathdude eight it up … a wee bit
3. Haahnster’s Hallucinations’ MIA Boy
4. Intravenus de Milo’s Tony Alva
5. Rants Raves Life etc.’s Artful Dodger, maybe mixing it up with Mix Tape Girl
6. Some Days It's Not Worth Chewing Through the Leather Straps’ Dad of Skyler eight it up!
7. What I Like About the Universe’s Evil Evil Genius eight it up!
8. Write Procrastinator’s Brown Lightning

* * * * * *

A Meme-rific Week

2008-03-17T06:58:00.007-04:00

I’ve been tagged recently for several interesting memes, and I’m going to try to post every one this week. Work has taken me away from the blogworld for the last several weeks, and I hope a week o’ memes will bring me back full force.

I’m going to start with the easiest: The Middle Name Meme, tagged by the delightful Katie.

The Rules
1. Post the rules before you give your answers.

2. List one fact about yourself beginning with each letter of your middle name. If you don't have a middle name, use your maiden name or your mother's maiden name.

3. At the end of your blog post, tag one person (or blogger of another species) for each letter of your middle name. Be sure to leave them a comment telling them they've been tagged.

My middle name is GRACE, the middle name of my great-grandmother who helped raise my mother.

G: Sadly, I don’t live up to my middle name. I’m not very graceful. But I’ve been told recently that I have quite a distinctive walk, one I like to think borders on graceful.

R: I have a racy sense of humor. I’m proud to admit that things I’ve said have shocked and embarrassed some of my male buddies — and those cohorts are not weak of heart or humor. (Bet you thought I’d go all R.E.M. on you here, huh? This girl is full of surprises.)

A: I’m an Atlanta native — which is impressive only to those living in this huge metropolitan area since they know how rare Atlantans in Atlanta can be.

C: I love going to concerts. (Wow. Revealing little-known facts about myself is liberating.) In fact, I plan to hit at least five of R.E.M.’s seven East Coast shows in June. Evil Genius is gonna dance the DC grass flat with me; anyone else want to join me? (C’mon, you knew I’d work in R.E.M. anyway.)

E: I have an exuberant personality. I tend to absolutely love and adore things, or abhor them. Imagine freckled arms flailing as I rave about a song, or a person, or the swirl currently in front of me.

Now I tag five graceful bloggers:

Bad Tempered Zombie’s Barbara

Eskimo Bliss’s Eskimokiss

The Girl with Moxie’s Moxie spelled it out

It’s a Pug’s Life’s Marni spelled it out

Prone to Whimsy’s Flannery

Spill, girls.

* * * * * *

Mix Tape Friday: Country Comfort

2008-03-14T09:07:00.004-04:00

Favorite Boy and I recently saw a wonderful photography exhibit of Nashville’s finest singers and songwriters — which inspired this week’s post.

As I wrote when I waxed poetic about the Man in Black, I’m a Southern girl and I can't help but love country music. I prefer more traditional country music — Cash and Jones, Carter and Lynn, Haggard and Nelson, Twitty and Parton. Seems many of my favorite artists do, too, by this group of covers.

I’ve wanted to do a tape of country covers for a while. There are some great songwriters, and these interpretations are interesting. I broke one of my rules this week. I’ve included a couple of songs twice — Loretta Lynn’s “Rated X” and Tammy Wynette’s “Stand by Your Man” — because the covers are so completely different.

Grab a pair of jeans and a longnecked Bud, and enjoy today’s hoedown.

R.E.M. :: Dallas

The White Stripes :: Rated X

Wilco :: 100 Years from Now

Syd Straw & The Skeletons :: Harper Valley PTA

Lyle Lovett :: Stand by Your Man

Richard Buckner :: Lovin' Her Was Easier

Shelby Lynne :: I Walk the Line

John Prine + Iris Dement :: (We're Not) The Jet Set

Teddy Thompson :: She Thinks I Still Care

Elvis Costello :: He’s Got You

Gomez :: Wichita Lineman

Beck :: Your Cheatin’ Heart

Cowboy Junkies :: Walkin’ After Midnight

Ryan Adams :: Lovesick Blues

Chris Isaak :: I'm so Lonesome I Could Cry

Grant Lee Phillips :: Hickory Wind

Linda Ronstadt feat. Emmylou Harris :: I Can't Help It (If I'm Still in Love with You)

R.E.M. :: Jackson

The Jayhawks :: Ode to Billy Joe

John Doe :: I Can’t Hold Myself in Line

Kelly Hogan + John Wesley Harding :: It’s Only Make Believe

The Mekons :: Sweet Dreams of You

Wendy O. Williams + Lemmy :: Stand by Your Man

Neko Case & The Sadies :: Rated X

k.d. lang :: Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray

Jeff Buckley :: Satisfied Mind

Joan Osborne :: Do I Ever Cross Your Mind?

The Lemonheads :: Brass Buttons

Lucinda Williams :: You Don’t Have Very Far to Go

Marshall Crenshaw :: Silver Wings

The Pretenders + Emmylou Harris :: She

Calexico :: Casey’s Last Ride

Jason & The Scorchers :: Lost Highway

R.E.M. :: King of the Road

Since you’re clutching that Bud, you probably don’t have the extra hand (or dexterity) to right-click each of these, so here’s the zip file.

By now you’re possibly shocked that I didn’t include a cover of “Ring of Fire.” Well, I have so damn many, I’m giving the June Carter-penned Cash classic its own subsection:

Rings of Fire

June Carter Cash
Elvis Costello
Allison Moorer
Moby
Cigar Store Indians
Social Distortion
Coldplay
Joaquin Phoenix
Grace Jones
Wall of Voodoo
Country Joe McDonald
Blondie
Dwight Yoakum
The Animals
Johnny Cash + Bob Dylan

Have a lovely hoedown of a spring weekend, kids.

* * * * * *

The Week of the Cat

2008-03-13T00:48:00.002-04:00

Today's my second blogiversary! Gifts and wishes and musings of your favorite posts may be delivered via e-mail or in the comment box.

We started the week with the cat-vatared Tenacious S winning the first mix tape contest. Then everyone’s favorite Barbara, Ms. Bruederlin, posted an important scientific study of human intelligence levels and proximities to kitties.

Now it’s my turn — because why should I come up with something clever and new when good stuff is readily available to steal and YouTube has anything you want to see? And so I give you Fatboy Slim’s cover of Steve Miller’s “The Joker." It’s kitty-licious!

Thanks, Beloved Ex!

* * * * * *

Take That, Technorati!

2008-03-12T18:46:00.002-04:00

While it really shouldn’t matter, we bloggers let it bug the hell out of us — those plummeting authority numbers, those digits that make us feel popular in the blogworld. Technorati changed their rating formula so that long-time blogroll position points drop off after twelve months. To fight back (and get Monkey Mucker-like authority rankings), many bloggers are posting their blogrolls.

Today’s my day.

If you haven’t taken the time to click and read from my blogroll, blow off some valuable office hours now and check out these great writers. There are some newbies here well work the bookmark.

All the Way from Oy to Vey
All Things Dan
Anandamide
Baby Got Books
Bad Tempered Zombie
Barista Brat
Beginning to Bird
Better Living Through Bacon
Bliss and Bile
Blowing Sh*t up With Gas
Cello, Et Cetera
Chancelucky
Chez Béziat
Coaster Punchman's World
Coffeypot
Crabapple Cove
A Daily Dose of ...
Dating Rules for Sitcoms
Din of Inequity
Distributorcap NY
Eating Chicken Vindaloo
Eclectic Tales
Erik's Choice
Eskimo Bliss
Everything Is Pop, Pop Is Everything
Flying Buttresses
Fonzie Sox
The Future Is Now
Georgia on My Mind
Gifted Typist
The Girl with Moxie
Give Me My Blue Blanket!
God's Own Suburb
Grabbing Sand
Grant Miller Media
Haahnster's Hallucinations
Here Comes Johnny Yen Again
Hunting the Horny Back Toad
I, Splotchy
The Imaginative Universal
In Blue Ink
In Her Shell
Intravenus de Milo
Invisible Lizard's Unusual Oranges
It's a Pug's Life
Jintrinsique Unplugged
KatBox
Kat. Heel. Well.
KulturFluff
Lame Stuff
Land-o-Lulu
Looking for Taller
Me and George W
Melinda June
Mellow Like Jello
Michael on Fargo
The Midnight Cafe
A Million Miles Away
Modern Day Hobo
Monkey Muck
Mother Goldstein
My Head Is a Box Filled with Nothing
The New & Used Records Pop Culture Blog
Passion of the Dale
Pezda's Ghost
Politits
Pop Culture Dish, Presented by Malcolm
The Pop Eye
Prone to Whimsy
Rants Raves Life and Anything Else That Comes
Reject the Kool-Aid
Ribbed for Your Pleasure
The Road Goes on Forever
Roaming in the Gloaming
Rocket Radio
Savage Distortion
Save Your Generation
Scrivenings
The Shanghai Cafe
The Simarco Letters
Sobrietyland
Social Zymurgy: The Culture of Beer
Some Days It's Not Worth Chewing Through the Leather Straps
Some Guy's Blog
Sprawling Ramshackle Compound
Str8jacket
Tanya Espanya
Tenacious S
This Too Shall Pass
Thus Spake Drake
Tongue-tied Lightning
The Unending Journey of the Wandering Author
Unrescuable Schizo
Wapentake
Whatever Works Is Good
What I Like About the Universe
When Will I Use This?
Wiggity Whack?
The World According to Zed
Write Procrastinator
The Yellow Stereo
Yawp

* * * * * *

The Envelope, Please

2008-03-10T23:04:00.005-04:00

It’s the moment all of you (well, ten of you) have been waiting for: the winner of the First Mix Tape Friday Contest.

Ten brilliant musicologists (or ten classic rock station addicts, or ten brilliant Googlers) submitted their guesses for the original artists covered on the I Wanna Rawk! mix tape. Three correctly guessed all forty, and the rest missed just a couple — so all ten names went into the hat.

These caused our courageous contestants the most trouble:

Fleetwood Mac :: Think About Me

The Rolling Stones :: I’m Free

Bloodrock :: D.O.A.

As you can see by the photo below, we followed the regulations set by Roberts Rules of Order, using an actual hat from which to draw the winning entry. You can’t tell it in the photo, but Favorite Boy blindfolded me and spun me around three times (which was strange since there was neither donkey nor tail nearby) before I reached into the hat.

And reach in I did … to pull out the name Tenacious S! She was one of just three who correctly guessed Bloodrock on the first ballot, so she earned it.

Ms. S., I will contact you later this week to talk about themes for the March 28 mix tape.

Don’t fret, kids, there will be more mix tape contests this year.

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Mix Tape Friday: Boys + Girls

2008-03-07T00:02:00.008-05:00

According to Weather.com, it’s going to be a frigid weekend — but my personal forecast predicts a hot and steamy one, as I get Favorite Boy all to myself. And so, in honor of my lovely weekend-to-be, we’re listening to duets this Friday morning.

Some of these are true duets, some are bands who feature the singing strengths of both their male and female members. Either way, listening to boy/girl duets never fail to please.

The First Mix Tape Friday Contest results will be announced Sunday evening. One lucky winner will snag the chance to co-produce the March 28 mix tape. Exciting, isn’t it?

This is the second duet in the mix tape series; Guys and Dolls featured many of the songs you’re about to whine about not being on this one.

Grab a guy, or a doll, or both … find a dark, cozy corner … and snuggle or frug to these boy/girl-ettes.

Aimee Mann + Michael Penn :: Two of Us

The Decemberists :: Yankee Bayonet (I Will Be Home Then)

Dwight Yoakum feat. Sheryl Crow :: Baby Don’t Go

Marvin Gaye + Tammi Terrell :: Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing

Omar feat. Angie Stone :: Be Thankful

Chumbawamba :: Tubthumping

Basement Jaxx feat. Me'shell Ndegeocello :: Right Here’s the Spot

Mick Jagger + Tina Turner :: State of Shock

The B-52’s :: Bushfire

The New Pornographers :: Miss Teen Wordpower

Ronnie Spector feat. Joey Ramone :: You Can't Put Your Arms Around a Memory

Jonathan Richman + Moe Tucker :: I’m Sticking with You

Syd Straw + Evan Dando :: For Shame of Doing Wrong

R.E.M. feat. Natalie Merchant :: Photograph

Jeff Buckley + Elizabeth Fraser :: All Flowers in Time Bend Towards the Sun

Buddy + Julie Miller :: The River’s Gonna Run

Dean Wareham + Britta Phillips :: Moonshot

Glen Hansard + Marketa Irglová :: When Your Mind's Made Up

Billy Bragg + Kirsty MacColl :: A New England

Gregg Allman + Cher :: You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me

John Prine + Bonnie Raitt :: Angel from Montgomery

Lyle Lovett feat. Rickie Lee Jones :: North Dakota

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals feat. Norah Jones :: Dear John

Otis Redding + Carla Thomas :: Knock on Wood

The Postal Service feat. Jenny Lewis :: We Will Become Silhouettes

Macy Gray + Robert Bradley :: Down on Me

B.B. King feat. Tracey Chapman :: The Thrill Is Gone

Al Green + Annie Lennox :: Put a Little Love in Your Heart

Josh Ritter feat. Blake Hazard :: Tonight You Belong to Me

Warren Zevon feat. Emmylou Harris :: Please Stay

It’s date night. You’re probably spending your extra minutes primping the hair, shining the shoes. I don’t want to hold you up, so download the zip file and get back to fabulizing yourself.

Several of these pairings — Aimee Mann and Michael Penn, Dwight Yoakum and Sheryl Crow, Jeff Buckley and Elizabeth Fraser, Buddy and Julie Miller, Dean Wareham and Britta Phillips, Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglová, Gregg Allman and Cher — are (or were) coupled. Rumors still swirl around about Marvin and Tammi; I hope they spent some lovely nights together.

And that’s all for today. I’m off to get boy favors ...

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Give to Me, Take from Me

2008-03-04T04:39:00.004-05:00

The first Mix Tape Contest is heating up! So far we have about ten people who met the challenge — and there's still time for you to impress us with your rock knowledge. I'll take entries until Sunday at 4 p.m. EST. So far, everyone has missed two (most of them the same two songs), so you still have a shot at the hat.

Need inspiration? This lovely rock cover should get the brain going.

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Mix Tape Friday: I Wanna Rawk!

2008-02-29T04:38:00.007-05:00

We’ve been swooning and sobbing over love for the last two weeks. Always interesting — but I’m getting antsy. It’s time to rawk — and we’re bustin’ out the jams with alternative bands covering rock classics. (You know I love covers.)

Announcing the First Mix Tape Friday Contest!
And it’s an easy one: E-mail me the list of original artists for each of these forty songs. All winning entries go into the pot. If I draw your name, you win a chance to co-produce the March 14 mix tape. The e-mail address is on the navbar. Can you stand the excitement?

Loosen up those neck muscles, kids, because you’re getting ready to bang the head.

Dave Grohl :: Stairway to Heaven

Scissor Sisters :: Comfortably Numb

Of Montreal :: Suffragette City

Bryan Ferry :: Sympathy for the Devil

Stone Temple Pilots :: Revolution

Fishbone :: Shattered

The Flaming Lips :: Bohemian Rhapsody

The Cardigans :: Iron Man

Bauhaus :: Ziggy Stardust

The Ramones :: Time Has Come Today

Pearl Jam :: Baba O’Riley

The Replacements :: Jumping Jack Flash

Kristin Hersh :: When the Levee Breaks

The Decemberists :: Think About Me

Aztec Camera :: Jump

Seu Jorge :: Life on Mars?

R.E.M. :: Tusk

Lily Allen :: Mr. Blue Sky

Elvis Costello :: All You Need Is Love

Liz Phair :: Emotional Rescue

Everclear :: The Boys Are Back in Town

Buzzcocks :: Ballroom Blitz

Rage Against the Machine :: Street Fighting Man

Devo :: (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction

U2 :: Radar Love

Sleater-Kinney :: White Rabbit

Ted Leo :: Dancing in the Dark

Soup Dragons :: I’m Free

The Cure :: Young Americans

Wilco :: Paranoid

World Party :: All the Young Dudes

Sheryl Crow :: Squeeze Box

The Stranglers :: All Day and All of the Night

The Hold Steady :: Against the Wind

Belle & Sebastian :: (Don’t Fear) The Reaper

Jay Farrar :: Like a Hurricane

Joe Jackson :: Oh Well

R.E.M. :: D.O.A.

The Pogues :: Honky Tonk Women

Oasis :: My Generation

Too jittery from contest excitement? Download the zip file and conserve that right-click energy.

These covers are interesting. Some are very true to the original, such as Jay Farrar’s “Like a Hurricane” and Joe Jackson’s “Oh Well.” Others, like Aztec’s Camera’s wonderful “Jump” (way before Nouvelle Vague and Richard Cheese) and Scissor Sisters’ “Comfortably Numb,” become an entirely different song.

I crack up every time I listen to R.E.M.’s "D.O.A." cover (performed at NYC’s Peppermint Lounge, Halloween 1983). As Michael says in the introduction, it’s probably the worst song ever written. It was my fav-o-rite song in eighth grade. Zandra Wonoski (didn’t every girl have a friend named Zandra in junior high?) and I thought we were so frickin’ cool listening to it — and I had the original and the live albums. Listening to the drumbeat slow as his heart slows and dies was just awesome … when you were thirteen in 1972.

I adore musicians who sing a lot of cover tunes — and Dave Grohl may win the prize as the most prolific and most brilliant. I have him covering everone from Creed and The Spice Girls to "Baker Street" and Prince — and I don’t spend much time searching for his songs. He’s so adorable. Show of hands of everyone who’s crushing on Grohl?

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A Compliment?

2008-02-27T13:56:00.005-05:00

Today I’m wearing a simple classic outfit: black turtleneck, brown/black print silk wraparound skirt, black boots with three-inch heels. (I’m well-baubled, too, but the jewels don’t play a part in this story.) I’m walking to grab lunch from the cafeteria when I see a woman I like at the other end of the hall. She starts laughing and waving madly. As she draws close, she says:

I got a salad.

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R.E.M. :: Supernatural Superserious

2008-02-26T20:12:00.002-05:00

The first single/video from Accelerate. Get up offa that thing and dance, kids!

When is the new album coming out? Have you superseriously not noticed the coundtown on the navbar?

Not long before I'm dancing on lawns in your East Coast town ...

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When You’re too Busy to Blog

2008-02-25T20:50:00.011-05:00

Why not post your all-time favorite Letterman Top 10 List?

Top 10 Body Parts or Van Pattens

10. Heart

9. Kidney

8. Vincent

7. Trachea

6. Joyce

5. James

4. Bladder

3. Timothy

2. Spleen

1. Dick

The brilliant thing about this Top 10 is you knew … you knew … what #1 was going to be ... and you giggled all the way down the list. I love Dave.

Which is your favorite Top 10? Click here or here for a list of some of the best.

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