Beware the beast Man, for he is the Devil's pawn.

Take a quick break from whatever you're doing and watch this:


I can't help but love this idea. Obviously I'm concerned about the treatment of the monkeys, but if they are well cared for this could make them very happy. I'm also obviously concerned about the statue of liberty getting buried in sand and the monkeys taking over the saki shop and making the humans wait on them for boiled soy beans. I guess we'll just have to play it out. Thoughts? See more video below.

Web-Junk

I know I just posted a blog hours ago, but I couldn't wait to share all of this web-junk with you.

COMICS:
First off, this site is pretty awesome if you're into comics, and is probably fun even if your'e not. It comes from Marvel and allows you to create your own version of superhero based on pieces of existing Marvel heroes.

Also falling into both the comic and movie areas, it looks like Sony might be making a Spider-Man spinoff. Thanks to the hollywood reporter for this one. Check the story out here.

Finally, it looks as though the presidential candidates are the new thing in comics. I'm not gonna bother with this, but you can investigate further here.

MOVIES:
The new Harry Potter preview is now online. If you haven't already checked this one out, here's the link to do so. I'm actually very psyched for this movie.

Also, according to Variety, Warner Brothers is developing a Marvin the Martian feature film. I'm not sure what I think of this idea, but will gladly wait for the movie to arrive before passing judgement. See the story here.

Finally, it looks like Steven Spielberg might be slightly smarter than George Lucas after all. Yes, the latest instalment of Indiana Jones may have killed at the box office, but I'm not so sure that fans are going to buy tickets to yet another disappointment like crystal skull. All the same, that's not going to stop Mr. Lucas from trying.

MUSIC:
I am thrilled to mention that former Spacehog frontman Royston Langdon may have a new gig. Velvet Revolver has officially been auditioning him to replace Weiland as thier new lead. I think I might actually start listening to Velvet Revolver if this happens. Sweet!.

INTERNET:
Finally, a website that truly proves the internet is useful! Jellotime.com is not only fun and entertaining... well... it's not actually all that entertaining, or fun. But it might just be the best way to waste 3 seconds of your time you've ever found. I hoped it might do something different if poked enough, but unfortunately it's a pretty straight forward blob of jello, no tricks involved. I only know because I poked for much longer than I should've.

RANDOM:
I didn't even know where to put this news, so I've created a 'random' section. It would appear as though Buffy's beau Freddie Prinze Jr. has signed on with the WWE! No, he won't be fighting, as much as we'd all like to see that, he'll apparently be in some bhind the scenes role like writing or producing or whatnot. Seriously, how esparate can he be?

This Week

Hey kids. Sorry about my short hiatus from blogging, but I’m pretty sure I’m back at full steam now. July has been an amazing month in New York City. I’ve made quite a few new friends this month, and have become addicted to numerous new bands. The cashiers at my favorite comic book store know me by name and work is looking up. Needless to say, I’ve got so much to talk about. But, let’s start with what’s up this week.

Movies: First off, my old roommate Brandon was in town and we were able to go see the new Will Farrell movie Step Brothers. If raunchy slapstick comedy is your style, then this is a good one for you. I will admit that I laughed more than I thought I would. For a guy who doesn’t generally like comedies, that says a lot.

Music: I finally listened to the synth-pop band Metro Station. While I apparently downloaded this album a few months ago, I had failed to ever make it a priority. While it is a pretty tight album, I can’t get the image of the lead singers little sister, Hannah Montana, out of my head while listening. This pretty much ruins the whole experience for me. I can’t seem to take them seriously, which they clearly want. Also in music however, the New York band Bears Repeating released an EP today, and is allowing free downloads of that EP via their website beginning today, August 1st. The album will only be free for a short time, so be sure to download it A.S.A.P. And seeing as they have no relation to any Disney Channel royalty, I’m pretty sure it’s worth your time.

TV: Mad Men blew my socks off this week. The season 2 premier picks up exactly 2 years after the first season ended, with a lot of holes to be filled. But still, seeing the difference those 2 years made to American life is surely interesting. The addition of locks on doors, copy machines first appearing in office hallways, and women beginning to find a spot in business with the men. I can’t wait for Sunday. You can watch the entire season 2 premiere below. Go to hulu.com to watch the full screen format.



Internet: I haven’t had much time to surf the web for interesting sites this week, but I will once again recommend you check out hulu.com. Not only does this online TV network have a tremendous library of shows and movies to watch on demand, but it also has Joss Whedons’ (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and Firefly) hit internet musical “Dr. Horrible’s Sing Along Blog”. The 45 minute musical film is split into 3 segments and stars Neil Patrick Harris and Nathan Fillion. (Watch the whole thing below, or tune to hulu.com for full screen) If you are a Joss Whedon fan at all, you’ll get a kick out of this. For those of you who haven’t kept up on Joss’ blog, he says that his new goal for his shows is to always provide the unexpected. He wants to write the “episode of Murder She Wrote in which none gets murdered.” So, don’t get too upset by Joss’ surprise ending, he’s just delivering on his promise to us. I am really psyched to check out his new FOX network show, Dollhouse. Hopefully he’ll be supported by the network this time around.



That’s it for now. Check back in later for more.

I can't wait until Friday!

You may remember a short Hellboy promo I posted a week or two ago:
Bravo's Inside the Actors Studio


Well, it looks like Universal Studios is using it's newest family member to conduct some unique team advertising with many other Universal characters and shows. Here are two more that've been recently released:

NBCs CHUCK


NBCs American Gladiators


NBCs 'The More You Know'


I'm not sure what this is connected to, but it's a good one.


Rumor has it we'll be seeing more of these involving the casts of Law and Order, The Office, and Heroes to name a few. I'll keep an eye out for them and let you know when they're posted.

What it's like in my head.

This was meant to be a quick blog entry about the band Vampire Weekend, but it somehow took a horrible A.D.D. trip down a completely different path. Still, I thought it was a great way to show everyone what A.D.D. is like, so enjoy the ride.

The holiday weekend was fantastic, but busy. I'll surely be filling you in on everything that went down, but first I have a quick music recommendation. Last year sometime I posted a playlist on my myspace page that included a few songs by the local NYC band Vampire Weekend. Since then, they've released an album, had some time in the spotlight, and now are enjoying a little 'fame' in the indy rock scene. I realize that most of you know all about them now, but if you haven't heard them yet, this is your chance to get on board. Check out the music videos below.


Vampire Weekend - Oxford Comma


Vampire Weekend - A-Punk

Now check out this Minnesota College a cappella group perform Vampire Weekends Oxford Comma.


Now watch the same Minnesota College a cappella group perform Daft Punks Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger.


Now we watch a student from the same school also with a unique performance of the same song... (this is pretty cool, so be patient.)


Now for a real treat; the a cappella group and the daft hand kid performing live together!!! Awesome.


Isn't the internet great!

Finally, tune into hulu.com for all of your favorite classic and new shows for free, and even a few good movies, any time you want. They've added some commercials, but it's still far better than TV. -No, I'm not paid by Hulu, I'm just a fan.

This is my life. Now I'm going to watch Men In Black online at Hulu.com while I fall to sleep.

Mad Men

I've talked about it before, but I really must insist that if you haven't already, you watch AMCs critically acclaimed drama, Mad Men. The first season is available on DVD and on iTunes, so there are no excuses. Season Two begins at the end of July, so catch up now! Also, if you were thinking of ignoring my advice, I've posted the series premier, thanks to AMC, below in three chapters. Pay attention to the subtleties in the acting and writing. This is a show not to be missed.

I warn you, this show can be graphic in to the often uncomfortable realities that existed in New York in the year 1960. Sexism, racism, and adultery are only some of the themes portrayed unapologetically, without the usual 'moral of the story' ending we'd expect to see in mainstream television. This fresh and true approach to the time period is only an added reason to love this show.

Crazy Busy

I have about 16 more blogs in my head right now, but no time to get them down. Work is crazy and my brother is coming to town on Thursday, and I don't think I've cleaned in months. Anyway, check out this site to keep yourselves busy. Have fun, I'll post again soon.

He can do no wrong.

Over the years I have followed one persons career more than most others. Ever since Alias first aired I've been watching J.J. Abrams as he produced and/or directed any number of projects that always turned out amazing. I began calling myself a fan once I first became an addict of his Alias follow up project, ABCs 'LOST'. But Abrams' geniu=ous seems unstoppable. From the mysteries of the LOST island to the suspensful Mission Impossible 3 (the best Mission Impossible, by far), Abrams never fails to entertain. He's got a new show airing on FOX next season and is currently in post production on the new J.J. Abrams Star Trek movie. His monster film Cloverfield was a huge box office hit and multiple sequels are rumored to be in the works. To see for yourself why J.J. Abrams is as dependably good as he is, watch the video below. The video is about 20 minutes long, so make sure you have some time.



P.S. This video comes from TED.COM. It's an amazing site with many, many interesting speakers. Check it out.

The FADER

Last week I posted a blog on one of my favorite upcoming artists, Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson. This week he's been featured on the cover of The FADER Music Magazine, Summer Music Edition. MBAR is quoted saying, "I've passed that point in my life where I want to die for my art. Maybe I'll die because I'm an idiot." Hopefully he sobers up long enough to get somewhere. Here's to MBAR, good luck man.

YBS in NYC this Thursday!!!

In a former life as the Co-Founder of D-Town Productions I had the pleasure of working with some amazingly talented musicians. It's been a few years since we did a show, but I've followed the musical careers of many of those we worked with. One group that's never failed to impress me is Your Black Star (YBS) from Louisville, KY. YBS has created a unique blend of rock that is has unusual depth, yet remains catchy and addicting. Still, they manage to avoidmany of the cliches and trends musicians can so easily fall into. Thier original rock blend is well worth checking out, and from experience I can say that thier live shows are fantastic. You can download most of thier music including thier latest album, Beasts, from thier myspace page. Also, if you are a fellow New Yorker, be sure to check them out this Thursday, July 3rd, at Rehab. Rehab is located at 25 Ave B and YBS is scheduled to perform at 10pm. This will likely be thier last tour for a while, so be sure to make it down. I'll see you there.

This Week...

On T.V.:

This week watched the Season 2 premier of My Boys on TBS. It was a lot better than I expected, prompting me to turn to iTunes and get caught up on Season 1. I thoroughly enjoyed my time watching this show. As far as 30 minute comedies go anymore, they've really done something right on this one. In other T.V. news, it looks like Academy Award winner William Hurt will be joining Glenn Close, Tate Donovan and Ted Danson for Season 2 of FXs Critically Acclaimed drama Damages. Unfortunatly, we still have a while to wait for the insanity of Damages to return, as production began just yesterday here in New York. Luckily, the first season is available on DVD and iTunes. This is a show NO ONE should miss. It's by far one of the best things I've ever seen on television.

In Movies:

I finally got to see the Incredible Hulk this week. Edward Norton did it again. This movie was outstanding. It had good depth, plenty of comic book nerd 'easter eggs' and lots of action. I can only pray Norton returns for the sequel. I also watched 10,000 B.C. on iTunes last night and was pleasently surprised. I had very low expectations for this movie, and was happy to see that they had packed in as much plot as they did. This Friday I'm aiming to see Wanted, which I am confident will hold me over until Batman arrives in theaters next month.

In Books:

I finally finished reading A Big Life in Advertising by Mary Wells Lawrence. If your interested in advertising this is a good read. Ms. Wells ads are well known, and her developement in the industry makes for an entertaining and educational story. I've also finished half of Marley and Me by John Grogan. I can honestly say that no book has ever had the effect on me that this book has. It's extremely charming and well written and by the end of chapter one you'll love Marley as though he were your own dog. There are points when I became choked up and other times when I couldn't stop laughing while reading this book. Read the short preface and if you're still not interested, then the books not for you.

Where the hell is Matt?

If you surf the internet anywhere near as much as I do, then you've likely already seen this viral video. If you haven't, it's worth a couple minutes. It was produced over a period of 14 months in 42 countries by Matt Harding and is only the latest in a series he's done. This latest video has only been posted on YouTube.com for 4 days and has already been viewed more than 2.25 million times. Thats a lot even for YouTube. I've watched it a few times and notice new stuff every time I do. It's far better if you go directly to the YouTube page and click the 'Watch in high quality' link under the screen. The version posted below is not 'high quality' and doesn't show the colors of the scenery as well. You can see more of Matt here.

I can't tell you how jealous I am of Mr. Harding. I want this to be my life, but with better dancing.

The worlds a dirty place.

I thought this was extremely interesting. I realized I should share it with my friends. So, check it out.

Public Displays of Affection

For most of my TV watching years I have been a die hard fan of NBC. I think it started with shows like Mad About You. As lame as it is, I always dreamed that one day I'd be like Paul Buchman living in New York City with my dog, Murray. (If Jake hadn't already been named Jake, guess what I would've picked.) There are so many other classics to enjoy like Friends and Frasier, Scrubs, The Office, ER, 30 Rock, Law & Order, etc. But, despite these great shows NBC has had trouble in recent years. Often I've watched the amazing new programming get ripped from the airwaves without warning, as was the case with the Black Donnelly's. Well, today the GE operated network redeemed themselves by sending me a gift, an offering of peace. In a padded manilla folder crammed in my tiny mailbox I found a collection of Pins. Yes, pins. This is why I love NBC. I received 15 free pins in the mail today, all spoofing political pins, all advertising wonderful NBC shows. With slogans like "Get a clue: Vote SVU" and "Vote SNL" I'm both entertained and reminded to watch TV. Or how about "Baldwin Fay All the Way!" or the simplistic "Conan is our Man!" Even better, I'll be the coolest kid in New York once I attach these creative displays of fandom to my man purse. Awesome. Dorky, but awesome. I love you NBC! "Believe in Steve!"

This is the entire collection that arrived in my mailbox!

"Luke, I am your father..."

This is awesome!!!

http://flickr.com/photos/doctorbeef/sets/72157603716342376/

Garfield and more....

I've got a new favorite blog I think everyone should check out. It's called 'Garfield minus Garfield' and it features the classic Jim Davis comic strip with one minor adjustment, no Garfield. Strangely enough, when you remove Garfield from the mix, it makes Jon look increasingly insane. This new comic is dark and sometimes earily depressing. The person responsible for this latest adaptation is unnamed, but sums up his (or her) work in the following paragraph: "Who would have guessed that when you remove Garfield from the Garfield comic strips, the result is an even better comic about schizophrenia, bipolor disorder, and the empty desperation of modern life? Friends, meet Jon Arbuckle. Let’s laugh and learn with him on a journey deep into the tortured mind of an isolated young everyman as he fights a losing battle against lonliness in a quiet American suburb." -Awesome. This is why the internet rocks.

While we are discussing Garfield, you might want to tune into youtube.com for a series of great Garfield inspired videos. Every video features a live action version of a Garfield comic strip, followed by a cheesy laugh track and most are followed by a music video of some sort. It's one of the worst, yet funniest things I've seen on the internet to date. You can see all 28 by going to http://youtube.com/user/lasagnacat. If not, at least enjoy the sample below, it's one of my favorites.

Someplace to Visit.

The Motor City Bar, located on the Lower East Side of the island of Manhattan, is a standard New York theme bar. It is however New York's only Detroit themed bar. According to one review, the Motor City Bar presents much of the 'raw charm' that can otherwise only be found in Detroit. That raw charm is provided by the owners, Detroit Natives who were transplanted to NYC 10 years ago and have operated Bar ever since. With car seats as bar benches, hubcaps on the walls and murals of multiple big three classics, I could see easily forgetting that I'm away from the D at all. But the auto theme alone isn't what carries this bar. It's the attention to the smaller details that really make it feel like home, like local Detroit street signs and sports logos. (There's a wings logo on the window near the entrance.) This will surely place where I'll go if homesickness kicks in. Personally, my favorite feature is the white board behind the bar. If you are missing a friend you can buy them a drink and the bartender will write your name, their name, and the drink you bought them and will leave it there for your friend to redeem at a later date. That's something I will likely use at least once. If you come to visit, make sure you swing by the Motor City Bar and check to see if I've bought you a drink lately.

So considering the apparent popularity of the Motor City Bar in New York, I couldn't help but wonder what New Yorkers think of the real Detroit. After a quick search, I found a fantastic article that gave me my answer. Check this out if you have time. I like that they call Detroit "a friendly small town masquerading as a desolate big city." I have to say that I agree whole-heartily with that statement.

What to Expect.

In the past, my blog entries have acted more as journal entries documenting events in my life. Moving forward, I plan to maintain some of my original style, with additional focus on arts and entertainment as well as some tech news thrown in. You'll notice each blog labelled as one of the three, either Pop Culture, Tech, or Personal. If I get very daring in the future I might even add in a design or architecture section. Feedback is always welcome and comments are open for anyone. This is a great way for us to keep in touch. Hopefully I can write enough to keep you satisfied and interested.

The White Stripes are Back

After a short run with his 'Nashville' band, the Raconteurs, Jack and Meg White have reunited to release their first album since Get Behind Me Satan. They're back, and the White Stripes rock more than ever.

On the new video for the single, Icky Thump:

I've spotted Meg White on numerous occasions around bars in Detroit and have always been stunned by how much hotter she is in real life than she appears on TV. Watching the new video, she was the first thing I noticed. You have to admit that she is pretty hot in this video, sporting new hair and a much more stylish look. She finally looks like the rock star we always knew she was. Even Jack is looking halfway cool, as opposed to the freakish Frankenstien look he usually sports. It looks like they've finally accepted that they're international rock stars. And while they have changed their look, they're sound hasn't changed. Thankfully, thay've maintained the amazing raw sound we expect from the White Stripes and other Detroit rock bands while still managing to come across so beautifully tight. This is a great step forward for the White Stripes, and if the rest of the album is anything like Icky Thump, it's sure to be their best to date. I can't wait for this album to be released.