Tag Archives: Willow’s Bistro

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 5/19/18

20 Sunday May 2018

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Salutations™!!

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©RCA

 

We didn’t walk yesterday because it was misting/drizzling and I hate being wet. I didn’t want to get caught up in the deluge. Anywhat! The BCPF and I still ate at Mary’s Gourmet Diner, went to Underdog Records, did a lot of record listening and met our friends at Willows Bistro last night. Here’s our haul:

  • The Sea And Cake – Any Day – A brand new release from this jazz-infused indie rock band. I had never heard of them but The BCPF is a fan and it was pretty cool. I liked it a good bit. New.
  • The Breeders – Last Splash – The second album from the Breeders, released in 1993. They reissued them this week but we found a VG++ used 2009 reissue and it sounded fantastic. Great album.
  • Pavement – Brighten The Corners – Another fave of The BCPF’s college days. The first side was bright and funny. I didn’t pay any attention to side two. Overall, I didn’t dislike it. VG+.
  • The B-52’s – The B-52’s – This is an original pressing of their 1979 debut album. It’s in VG++ shape. It was ranked on the RS List at #152. That’s impressive. They were game changers in the new wave/classic alternative scene. Great album.
  • Neil Young & Crazy Horse – Rust Never Sleeps – #351 on the RS List. I didn’t really care for it, I don’t think, the first time I heard it. I cared just a little more this time. I think my problem with him is his voice live. He’s always straddling the proper pitch and his voice kind of rakes on my nerves. Still, it was VG+ and I have another marked off the list.
  • Tchaikovsky – Boston Pops / Arthur Fiedler – Swan Lake – NM 1964 pressing.
  • Paul McCartney & Wings – Red Rose Speedway – Someone had just brought this in to sell and I snatched it up. It has one of my top 5 Mac songs on it (“My Love”) and it was in VG condition. The rest of the album is good but I love that one song.
  • Toto – Toto – First album from a talented group of session players. This is no Toto IV but that’s okay. It has “Hold the Line,” “I’ll Supply the Love” and “Georgy Porgy” on it, all of which were released as singles along with “Rockmaker.” VG+.
  • Elvis Costello And The Attractions – Trust – VG copy of Declan Macmanus’ fifth album. I know nothing of the album but The BCPF likes Elvis Costello. We saw him live way back in 2010 or 2011.
  • Taco – After Eight – Yes! That “Puttin’ on the Ritz” guy. The whole album is in that old school standards/pop genre that the Irving Berlin tune is in. I really, really enjoyed listening to it. VG+.
  • Dire Straits – Communiqué – VG copy of Dire Straits’ second album. I know nothing of this album but I know that I have really developed a love for Dire Straits’ music. So, I’m looking forward to listening to it.
  • Blondie – Eat To The Beat – “Dreaming” is probably the best-known tune on this album, but I hear it has some other fantastical wonders on it, as well. It was a $1, so there’s that. VG.
  • Supertramp – Crime Of The Century – I’m trying to find all the Supertramp I can. I dig them and it’s good rock/pop. The two songs I recognize by title only (I haven’t listened to it, yet) are “Dreamer” and “Bloody Well Right.” The cover was beaten up and totally came apart at the glue points. I reglued that with my hot glue gun and cleaned the album up. The vinyl was in VG/VG+ condition, but there is some surface noise. $1 bin find.

Jonathan had a big purchase day from the way he talked so there’s bound to be plenty of freshly stocked used albums coming through. Watch Underdog Records’ Instagram and Facebook for the latest on their new and used acquisitions and for specials. Also, check out the ad on The Less Desirables podcast every week to hear what the TLD/Underdog special is.

Also, I use Discogs to archive my collection. There were two records I had to look up whilst in Underdog Records, yesterday. One I had and the other I didn’t. So, that saved me the guessing game. I love this service.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Keep spinning!

—
“Here comes a stingray. There goes a manta-ray. In walked a jellyfish. There goes a dogfish chased by a catfish. In flew a sea robin. Watch out for that piranha. There goes a narwhal. Here comes a bikini whale!” – “Rock Lobster” (Pierson/Wilson/Schneider/Strickland/Wilson)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 5/13/18

13 Sunday May 2018

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Salutations™!!

It was a slow record purchasing day for The BCPF and me yesterday but we still got some good stuff. We walked the West Highlands and grabbed breakfast at Mary’s Gourmet Diner and then made our way to Underdog Records before coming home, listening and grabbing dinner at Willows Bistro. Here’s our haul:

postal service

©Sub-Pop

 

  • Pixies – Doolittle – #227 on the RS List. It’s one of The BCPF’s favorite albums. She said it was her high school years all over again. It was pretty good. I’d heard it whilst listening to the list backward but revisiting it on vinyl was pretty cool. New.
  • The Postal Service – Give Up – If the Pixies album was her high school, this is The BCPF’s college years, she said. It was a great listen, catchy yet still “alternative” enough to please her then-college-aged mind. New.
  • The Fresh & Onlys – Wolf Lie Down – Neither The BCPF nor I know anything about this album or even this band. It was in the clearance bin. New.
  • Archers Of Loaf – Icky Mettle – We have an album by Eric Bachmann and she says every time we listen to it that she can’t believe it’s the same guy singing. His solo stuff is much smoother than his voice with Archers of Loaf, which is quite raspy. New.
  • Billie Holiday – Strange Fruit – You just don’t pass on VG+ quality Billie Holiday when you see it. You grab it. That’s what we did.
  • Handel – Cantata: Nel Dolce Dell’ Oblio / Sonatas In D Minor & C Major / Trio Sonata In F Major – Still sealed, which is new but it was previously owned so we don’t call it new. We’re going to go with NM instead. The cover is in really near-perfect shape save a little bit of discoloration, I hope the vinyl inside matches its cover.
  • Nat King Cole / Ella Fitzgerald – Nat King Cole / Ella Fitzgerald – Her two favorite singers so you don’t pass on it when you see it. It is VG+ and is a thing of beauty.

There wasn’t a lot of fresh used that we were interested in yesterday but that’s not the norm. There are generally several pieces that I try to hunt down and that’s always part of the fun. But, like I said earlier, even though it was a short haul we got good stuff. Plus, it allowed us to catch up on some of our “need to be heard” albums. We got some of that done We still have two Record Store Day finds to listen to and hopefully will get to them in the next few days. He has a cassette deck for sale if you’re looking for one of those.

Discogs helps me when I’m standing in the middle of Underdog Records and trying to figure out if I already have this used album or that one. I have, on several occasions brought home a few used and as I was putting them in the collection, realized that I already have that particular one. Well, dang! Jonathan always works with me on those but what if he wasn’t as cool as he is? Yeah, not happening anymore because Discogs allows me to look at my collection just by clicking on the app on my phone.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Outside there’s a boxcar waiting. Outside the family stew. Out by the fire-breathing. Outside we wait ’til face turns blue. I know the nervous walking. I know the dirty beard hangs out by the boxcar waiting. Take me away to nowhere plains. There is a wait so long. You’ll never wait so long. Here comes your man.” – “Here Comes Your Man” (Thompson)

Silent Sunday or: The Haul 4/28/18

29 Sunday Apr 2018

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Salutations™!!

Yesterday was such a beautiful day and it was really relaxed since The BCPF and I didn’t have to camp out for the hectic scene that was Record Store Day. We walked, ate at Mary’s Gourmet Diner, bought records at Underdog Records, listened to records, and ate at Willows Bistro before getting home before 10:20p. A good day. Here’s our haul:

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©A&M

 

  • Okkervil River – In The Rainbow Rain – When I make the commercials for Underdog Records on Wednesdays, I try to incorporate some of the music that is being released in said commercial to give a little taste (observing ‘fair use’ rules, of course) and this was one that I used. I liked it and it sounded like something The BCPF would like. I’m always on the lookout for new stuff she may like. New.
  • The Rolling Stones – Get Yer Ya Ya’s Out – A live Rolling Stones album that was released originally about two and a half months before I was born. This, however, is the 1986 reissue. It was considered to be an audiophile copy at that time. This is in NM condition.
  • Weezer – Pacific Daydream – The latest album by Weezer that was released around Halloween last year. This is a really good album. It was fun to listen to. NM.
  • Tim Curry – Simplicity – The last of Tim Curry’s solo albums, this one from 1981. I liked listening to the other one I have, Fearless, even if it wasn’t great it was fun. I hope this one is. VG++.
  • A Flock Of Seagulls – A Flock Of Seagulls – The eponymous debut album featuring what is probably their most famous song “I Ran (So Far Away)” as well as “Space Age Love Song.” It was in great shape and I can’t wait to listen to it. VG++.
  • Frank Sinatra – Strangers In The Night – $1 bin find that we just couldn’t pass on. I love me some “Ol’ Blue Eyes” and here it was in VG shape.
  • Sinatra – Basie – Sinatra-Basie (An Historic Musical First) – Another $1 bin find for the same reasons above. Plus, it was the first time Frankie and Count Basie recorded together. VG.
  • Mungo Jerry – Mungo Jerry – The listing on Wikipedia shows no trace of “In the Summertime” but the copy I have does. I know it was released as a single the same year as this, so I am thinking that it was an album-independent single that did well and any subsequent releases of the album included it. That’s what I have, I think. It’s in VG condition and was a $1 bin find.

So, here, I have to say when I played in GSO on Friday, we went to another record store, CFBG Records. Jonathan says we weren’t cheating on him but I feel like we were. But, we got some cool stuff, even if the prices were crazy expensive for used stuff. I guess we’re just spoiled by Jonathan. Here’s that haul:

  • The Byrds – Younger Than Yesterday – #127 on the RS List and containing one of my favorite Byrds (well, Dylan) songs, “My Back Pages.” It’s in VG++ condition.
  • The Fixx – Phantoms – I have grown to love The Fixx and I was excited to find this here (well, The BCPF found it). VG+.
  • Bob Dylan – Blood On The Tracks – #16 on the RS List (I need five to finish the top 25). From what I remember I didn’t much care for it, but The BCPF is a sucker for Dylan. Plus, I needed it for the list. VG+.
  • INXS – Listen Like Thieves – The INXS album with “What You Need,” the title tune and “This Time.” Very excited about it. VG+.
  • Midnight Oil – Diesel And Dust – The one with “Beds Are Burning” on it. We got that one for free. There is a long scratch all the way across the first side but I’m hoping it will still play. If not, I will use it as the first of my vinyl repair experiment that I plan on doing. I’ll say VG, but that may not be true.

So, a pretty good haul and we’re excited about it. Lots of good stuff in there. Jonathan is back in the saddle after getting caught up from Record Store Day. So, follow Underdog Records on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and you’ll see what he is putting out each day. They’re open Tuesday to Saturday, 11a to 7p. Also, you can shop during off-hours by visiting their website.

Discogs lets me keep up with my collection so I don’t buy a lot of multiples and its Marketplace lets me find those hard-to-get items that Jonathan just never sees come through. It’s fun.

Until tomorrow, happy listening…
Scorp out!

—
“Crimson flames tied through my ears, rollin’ high and mighty traps pounced with fire on flaming roads using ideas as my maps. “We’ll meet on edges, soon, ” said I, proud ‘neath heated brow. Ah, but I was so much older then, I’m younger than that now.” – “My Back Pages” (Dylan)

Silent Sunday or: The Haul – Record Store Edition

22 Sunday Apr 2018

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Salutations™!!

So, the thing I want to say first is this: as much as I don’t mind the cold, sitting outside when the temperature drops to 41° and the wind comes barreling in at 3:45am in the morning and you’re in line for the Super Bowl of Records and Vinyl. That “ish” sucks like a Hoover. But, that’s exactly what we did right outside of Underdog Records. The BCPF and I camped along with a few of our vinyl friends all night Friday night/Saturday morning to be the first four (actually six but two pairs and two individuals) in the door to make sure we get our wants/wishlist filled for Record Store Day.

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©Warner Bros.

 

We went to eat at Mary’s Gourmet Diner directly after and then we went home and crashed for FIVE hours. We got up and listened a little before heading to Willows Bistro to have dinner with friends of ours, The Johnsons. Anywhat! You came for the list, right? I will say that all of these are brand new/NM (because I’m opening them). I’ll also put down who wanted and/or picked it up (Scorp/The BCPF). Here is the list:

  • Fleetwood Mac – The Alternate Tango In The Night – I love the original Tango in the Night. I was kind of disappointed with this. I mean, it’s good, but I was hoping for true alternate takes of “Big Love” and “Everywhere.” There were cool things on it, but I didn’t get my full satisfaction out of it but that’s okay. I’ll listen over and over anyways. This was my top RSD priority. (Scorp)
  • Living Colour – “Live From CGGB’s” Tuesday 12/19/89 – Actually picked up by The BCPF. She saw them open for the Rolling Stones on this tour and wanted to capture it. I’d think it was a little out of her wheelhouse but I was happy she got it. I have always loved what I’ve heard from Living Colour. 2xLP. (The BCPF)
  • The Cure – Mixed Up – A remastered remix album that came out on my 20th birthday (which, by the way, means 1990) and The BCPF loved it. It’s on a 2xLP picture disc set and it’s pretty awesome. I loved the remixes, too. I hadn’t heard them before.  2xLP. (The BCPF)
  • The Cure – Torn Down: Mixed Up Extras 2018 – A sequel to the 1990 remix album Mixed Up. It is even more remixes, done by Robert Smith. 2xLP. (The BCPF)
  • Adam Sandler – They’re All Gonna Laugh At You! – My favorite Adam Sandler album. I got the only one that Jonathan got in. I don’t know how many he ordered but he only received one. I think it’s Sandler’s best. A mix of really great sketches and really good songs. There may be a clunker here and there but overall, it’s great! I’m glad I was where I was in line because the guy behind us wanted it and he drove all the way from New Bern to do his RSD shopping. Sorry, Jason. Looking at his haul though, I’d say he spent close to if not over $1000 that day, so I figured I saved him a few bucks. 2xLP. (Scorp)
  • Ella Fitzgerald – Ella At Zardi’s – Zardi’s Jazzland was a jazz-focused music venue in Los Angeles in the ’50s. It was world-famous and a lot of top-name jazz folks played there, including, Ella. There were only two of these that Jonathan got and it was a top priority for The BCPF, which because our pal Michael got the other, left our friend Bill out. Sorry, Bill. 2xLP (The BCPF)
  • Wilco – Live At The Troubadour L.A. 1996 – The BCPF is a Wilco fan and this is a 2xLP of the band in their heyday, at their peak. I like Wilco pretty well. It’s not my favorite but it is cool. (The BCPF)
  • The Sundays – Reading, Writing And Arithmetic – The absolute top priority for The BCPF, this completes the Sundays trilogy. It’s a reissue but she had them all on CD when she was younger. I’m glad she got it. (The BCPF)
  • Jeff Buckley – Live At Sin-é – The Sin-é Coffeehouse in Manhattan’s East Village was a jumping in point for a good amount of well-known musicians, including Mr. Buckley. This 4xLP is the complete version of his 4-song EP that was released in 1993. The “Legacy” collection (4xLP) was released in 2003 but only on CD. I could be wrong but I believe this is its first time released on vinyl. (The BCPF)
  • Madonna – The First Album – Picture disc of Madge’s first album with “Borderline,” “Holiday” and “Lucky Star.” It was surprisingly inexpensive. It will be fun listening to it. (The BCPF)
  • Neil Young – Roxy Tonight’s The Night Live – A live concert from Neil Young recorded in 1973, although the official release isn’t until next Saturday. Yay us for getting an early copy. It’s 2xLP but only three sides. The fourth side is etched. (The BCPF)
  • Pink Floyd – The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn – The mono version of the debut Pink Floyd album. I wasn’t going to get it but then I figured, I can’t not get it. I won’t get this chance again unless I am ready to pay 20% markup on them. I’ll admit this isn’t a favorite of mine but it is needed for the RS List (#347) but it’s a limited edition. (Scorp)
  • David Bowie – Welcome To The Blackout (Live London ’78) – As the title suggests, it’s live from 1978. Bowie wasn’t ever “not good” and I loved the late 70s/early 80s stuff. This is a 3xLP set, too. (Scorp)
  • David Bowie – Bowie Now – Compilation rerelease on white vinyl. (The BCPF)
  • Lou Reed – Animal Serenade – A 3xLP live album recorded in Los Angeles at the Wiltern Theatre in 2003 after The Raven. The show features a drummer-less band (including Mike Rathke on guitar/synth, bassist, vocalist Fernando Saunders, and the cello of Jane Scarpantoni). Reed delivers dramatic readings of some of his most compelling work. In addition, Anohni, of Antony and the Johnsons fame, contributes background vocals throughout and sings the lead on “Set The Twilight Reeling” and “Candy Says.” (The BCPF)
  • Duran Duran – Thanksgiving Live – The Ultra Chrome, Latex And Steel Tour – A 2xLP of Duran Duran on tour in 1997. (Scorp)
  • Duran Duran – Budokan – A brief live performance from Duran Duran in Japan. There are only nine songs, but they sound fantastic. Simon’s voice is on point and you can really hear everything coming through. (Scorp)
  • Dylan & The Dead – Dylan & The Dead – Just what it sounds like it would be. You can guess who picked this one up but I’ll give you a hint, it was not me. (The BCPF)
  • The Rolling Stones – Their Satanic Majesties Request – I’m very surprised this wasn’t on the RS List. A cool lenticular cover and gatefold packaging. I like KISS’ version of “2000 Man” better, but this isn’t bad. It’s on blue-splattered vinyl. (The BCPF)
  • Human League – Secrets – Vinyl debut and reissue of their 2001 album. (Scorp)
  • Sufjan Stevens – Mystery Of Love – 10″ transparent vinyl of Sufjan Stevens single from the soundtrack of Call Me By Your Name. (The BCPF)

So, by my count, that’s 13 for The BCPF and 7 for Scorp. Not a contest at all and it just is what it is. We both got what we wanted and that’s cool. The only thing I missed was the reissue of the Whitesnake ’87 album which I’ll find somewhere later. It was just a good haul. If I haven’t already told you how much we paid, privately, you’ll have to just guess. No reason to broadcast that, but I will say it was over $70.

Jonathan was swamped but in a great mood when we left, I hope it stayed that way and I hope he made all his money back and more. I believe he’s open today for a rare Sunday opening. That may have changed but may not have. Check the Underdog Records social media channels.

Surprisingly, Discogs had all of them in by the time I got to them, however, some were just the European versions (which should be about the same), so I’ll go looking for the US versions to make the collection listing more accurate. That’s it, I’m still tired and I’m out!

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp is worn out!

—
“Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am home again. Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am whole again. Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am young again. Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am fun again.” – “Lovesong” (Smith/Gallup/Thompson/O’Donnell/Williams/Tolhurst)

Silent Sunday or: The Haul 4/14/18

15 Sunday Apr 2018

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Salutations™!!

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©Reprise

 

Yesterday was a beautiful day. It was warm but not hot, the humidity was quite low, the windows on “Annabelle” were all open, including the moonroof. The BCPF and I walked around Old Salem and visited with friends at the Cobblestone Farmers Market, at breakfast at Mary’s Gourmet Diner, visited Underdog Records, put together our new vinyl shelf, started the reorganization process (re-alphabetizing) of the “reset” which I’ll explain in a bit, early dinner at Willows Bistro and finished with a little get together with our very good friends. So, here’s the haul:

  • Neil Young & Crazy Horse – Life – This was still sealed from 1987. We listened to it but didn’t have time to post a Facebook or Instagram log about it. It was different but exactly the same. I would say a little less singer-songwriter and more just late 80s rock. NM.
  • Randy Newman – 12 Songs – #356 on the RS list. I found that I really dig some Randy Newman whilst listening to that song. He actually wrote a lot of stuff that other folk recorded; like “Mama Told Me Not to Come,” made more famous by Three Dog Night. VG++.
  • The Who – It’s Hard – Early 80s Who. The Who isn’t one of my favorite bands but I find myself wanting their stuff. It was a good price and it was available, so there you go. VG+.
  • Stan Getz – Another World – I have loved just about everything I have heard from Stan Getz, so here’s hoping that I like this 2xLP from the late 70s. VG+.
  • Bananarama – True Confessions – A mid-80s classic. This is the one with “Venus” on it. The BCPF made a comparison that Bananarama’s harmony style is a lot like the Spice Girls. I’d say that Bananarama was probably a direct influence. VG++.
  • Bananarama – Bananarama – This was their debut album featuring “Cruel Summer” and “Robert De Niro’s Waiting.” Haven’t listened to this one, yet. VG+.
  • Simon & Garfunkel – Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M. – 1965 debut album of a little duo that is going to go places! One of my favorite S&G tunes is “Sound of Silence” and as The BCPF says, “Paul Simon is a genius.” Yeah, he is. VG.
  • Scorpions – Animal Magnetism – Wracking up on my Scorpions collection. The song “The Zoo” has always been a favorite of mine from this group. VG.
  • Stephen Stills – Stills – We can’t figure out whether Stephen Still is a huge football fan or if he just likes wearing the t-shirt “jerseys.” It seems like you see him in those a lot from the pics on albums and magazines and such from back in the 70s. $1 bin find in VG condition.
  • Humble Pie – Eat It – I have no Humble Pie albums and I’m not sure I’ve even ever heard a song by them. I am sure I have but I wouldn’t know what it was. This is a 2xLP that is part rock, part R&B covers, part acoustic, and live performances. So, I don’t know what to make of it. $1 bin find and in “good” condition.

Jonathan was gearing up for Record Store Day and he was a bit befuzzled but we made it a little better when we arrived at the shop with an iced coffee of some sort that Dana Moody of West End Coffeehouse sent for him. But, we are revving for Record Store Day, as well. We bought this brand new shelf and have started resorting our collection. We’re going to change our process, too.

We already do it alphabetically by artist/band first name because that’s the way Discogs does it and I want to be able to look in order to find them according to Discogs. We are taking the classical out and we’re going to separate that from the regular collection so they’re easier to find. We also keep the ones that we haven’t listened to separate but that part of the collection was becoming quite a stack. So, we decided that since there are two Record Store Days a year – a big one in April and a minor one in the fall (I think Black Friday) – those will be “reset” days. Anything that hadn’t been listened to gets inserted into “gen pop” of the collection. That gives us time to listen and if we haven’t then, oh well.

Visit the Record Store Day website and find out what is coming out next Saturday and go support your local record stores. These are exclusive to indie stores and these albums won’t be on Amazon or in the big box stores. You may find some stuff on eBay but it will most likely be marked up ridiculously. Jonathan has ordered a large sum of product for this event and he needs to unload it. That’s where you (and we) come in. Support local business and indie record store. Yeah, I know I said that already… it’s important.

And, I use Discogs to keep track of what I have, which that list has grown a lot. I have to look at it in the store to make sure I do or don’t have an album before I make duplicate purchases. It’s a fun resource. Try it! They do CDs, too.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“And the people bowed and prayed to the neon god they made. And the sign flashed out its warning in the words that it was forming. And the sign said the words of the prophets are written on the subway walls and tenement halls. And whispered in the sounds of silence.” – “The Sound of Silence” (Simon)

Silent Sunday or: The Haul 4/7/18

08 Sunday Apr 2018

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Salutations™!!

It was a cold, dreary but fun day for The BCPF and me yesterday. Mary’s early, Underdog Records, Costco to find another record storage shelf (they didn’t have them but we ordered one from the online store), back home to listen to our haul and finally, Willows. Hey did I mention Underdog Records? Here’s the haul:

Connellsboylan

©TVT Records

 

  • Unknown Mortal Orchestra – Sex & Food – I heard some of the UMO stuff when I was making the Underdog commercial for The Less Desirables on Wednesday. This album hadn’t come out, yet, but I did go listen to their previous one and thought it was great. This one will have to grow on me a bit but it is a decent album. It’s on nice, heavy, “Pepto” pink vinyl, too. New.
  • Cream – Disraeli Gears – #114 on the RS List. I’m not a Clapton fan and really, I’m not a Cream fan, but this is a good album. It is used but in VG+ shape and is on 180g black vinyl. It’s a reissue but I don’t really care that much about that.
  • The Jam – The Gift – I have heard Doug Davis, yes, that Doug Davis, talk about The Jam before, as I have other folks as well. I was familiar with “Town Called Malice” but nothing else. The album is a pretty good listen. I liked it. VG+.
  • Neutral Milk Hotel – On Avery Island – I had never even heard of this band until about two months ago when someone was comparing them to another band (which band escapes me). What kind of name is that? I’d ask. Anywhat! I would have been okay had I never heard of them. This isn’t bad, but I just don’t care. I have it. The BCPF “likes” them. She’s not crazy about them but they’re her wheelhouse. VG+
  • The Connells – Boylan Heights – The BCPF let out an audible moan when she saw this. She was almost jumping up and down on the little step stool she was standing on. Okay, okay, I’ll add it. She was very excited about it. I listened. I don’t get the big deal but okay. I heard nothing “special” but if she’s happy, that’s what really matters. And, my pal Mitch Easter produced it! VG+.
  • Blondie – AutoAmerican – “Rapture” and “The Tide is High” are on this album. The rest is a little weird at times, but it was a great listen. It’s a fun album. VG+.
  • Leo Sayer – Endless Flight – I’m just a sucker for the Yacht Rock lot. “When I Need You” and “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” (which I know isn’t technically Yacht material but the former is) are on this and there’s a lot of my favorite studio musicians playing on it. VG++ condition.
  • Rod Stewart – Tonight I’m Yours – The first song I remember hearing from Rod Stewart (and knowing it was Rod Stewart) was “Young Turks.” I had it on 45. His version of Ace’s “How Long” (written by Paul Carrack) and Dylan’s “Just Like a Woman” is pretty good, too. Overall, this is a decent album but certainly not a “great” album. VG+.
  • Mott The Hoople – All The Young Dudes – #484 on the RS list. I saw this one from the back in the $1 rack. I was like oh yeah! I needed a little love. I cleaned it. There’s surface noise, sure, but for the most part, it turned out to be VG. This album also demonstrates how a Velvet Underground song can sound good. Let someone other than Velvet Underground do it.
  • Marvin Gaye – Moods Of Marvin Gaye – Beaten up and a little moldy, I cleaned it up and there was a little skippage happening but it was Good. It has been through it, I think. Of course, $1 bin find.
  • Freddie Jackson – Rock Me Tonight – Knowing songs from this album deemed me “the coolest white boy in school” when I was in high school. I am a sucker for slow jams and “You Are My Lady” is one of my goto slow jams (or is it jamz?). So, you can imagine my almost The BCPF-like squeal when I saw it in the $1 bin. Yep. I did. VG.
  • Seals & Crofts – Unborn Child – I mentioned Yacht Rock, right? Yeah, ’nuff said. $1 bin find and it’s G+; a little beaten up but we’ll see how it plays.
  • Walter Carlos – Switched-On Bach – Yeah, I want to hear 60s synths doing Bach. I don’t care much for Bach’s organ work, but I love me some synthesizers. Do it, Walter Carlos! G+ $1 bin find.

Not a huge haul this week. We’re saving money for Record Store Day which is coming April 21. Jonathan has already said he’s ordered almost all of the day’s offerings. That may be the perfect time for you to get back into vinyl. There are special editions, reissues, collections, and more. Visit the website to see what is coming out.

While we were in there yesterday I looked at a Denon and a Yamaha turntables. Each was over $500. But, they looked so danged cool. I’m sure they play great, too. But, not to worry, Jonathan has less expensive turntables, including beginner-/entry-level models. He sometimes carries new but for the most part, it is a used inventory. Great stuff, nonetheless.

Also, I use Discogs to catalog my collection and bring you “the Haul” every week. More than that, I have ordered a few things off the Marketplace if I am looking for something specific and I am noticing that there’s not a lot of them coming through Underdog (which isn’t often). Check them out, too.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Keep spinnin’!

—
“Fab Five Freddie told me everybody’s high, DJ’s spinnin’ are savin’ my mind. Flash is fast, Flash is cool. Francois sez fas, Flashe’ no do. And you don’t stop, sure shot. Go out to the parking lot. And you get in your car and you drive real far. And you drive all night and then you see a light. And it comes right down and lands on the ground. And out comes a man from Mars. And you try to run but he’s got a gun. And he shoots you dead and he eats your head. And then you’re in the man from Mars. You go out at night, eatin’ cars. You eat Cadillacs, Lincolns too; Mercury’s and Subaru’s. And you don’t stop, you keep on eatin’ cars.” – “Rapture” (Stein/Harry)

Silent Sunday or: The Haul 3/31/18

01 Sunday Apr 2018

Posted by in Records, Silent Sunday

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Salutations™!!

A beautiful day yesterday and the day before. We actually went out walking Saturday morning, trying to rekindle the spark of The Man Who Walked the Town journeys and blog, perhaps with the actual videos that we set out to do in the first place. We’ll see.

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©Polydor/A&M

 

Anywhat! We went on to Mary’s Gourmet Diner and had dinner at Willows Bistro, per our usual routine and that also means we made our weekly trek to Underdog Records, as well. The haul was pretty small but it was still fun! Here’s what we got:

  • Kacey Musgraves – Golden Hour – She’s been to WSNC before because she’s been to Bull’s Tavern and from what Danielle Bull says, she enjoyed it. This is country-ish but really in the way of a Taylor Swift, without the cutesiness. She’s cute, yes, but even though she’s fairly young (29), she writes mature but clever tunes. She has a great voice, too. Side One was great, Side Two was amazing! New.
  • The Clientele – Music For The Age Of Miracles – The BCPF always asks Jonathan if this is David J and he always tells her it’s The Clientele. She always says I’ll have to get that one day. Well, yesterday was that day. It sounds like David J. New.
  • Double – Blue – This one sparked a pretty cool conversation on Facebook yesterday. “I always thought it was pronounced double.” From Jonathan to the folk on FB, I am always happy to inform. I like it. It’s actually French and is pronounced (doo-‘blay). The duo is from Switzerland. There was also the question as to whether the second, smaller “u” was silent but the title of the album is “Blue” so it’s just them being clever. The hit on this album was “Captain of Her Heart.” I loved it and I think this whole album reflected that sound. Still sealed until I opened it yesterday. It was slightly warped from being sealed since 1985 but it played great. NM-/VG++ (taking the warp into account).
  • Della Reese – Della At Basin Street East – Della Reese, who we lost just this past November, was a great entertainer and had a fantastic voice. This was in VG+ shape and is the mono version. Sounds great!
  • Various – Musical Tour Around The World…And Beyond! – Just a bit of “popular music” from around the world in a 2xLP set. VG.
  • Various – The Life Treasury Of Christmas Music – The BCPF is an obsessor over Christmas albums/music. So it was there in the $1 and she grabbed it. It’s actually in really good, VG+ shape.
  • Peter, Paul And Mary – See What Tomorrow Brings – Another in the PP&M collection. The BCPF found it in the $1 bin. G+ and the outer sleeve is in dire shape.

That’s it. The haul, as I said, was short but we got some good stuff in there. Right after we left Underdog, Jonathan added a used turntable to his inventory. He buys and sells used turntables constantly so if you’re in the market for a turntable but don’t want to go out and buy something brand new, try his inventory, he always has good stuff there. Same with records, he’s adding to the used inventory every day that he’s open. And records are fun!

I also use Discogs to keep up with what albums are in my vinyl collection. You get over 1400 and are still buying you want to make sure you don’t double (that is duh-bull) up on stuff. Discogs helps you with that and there’s a really cool marketplace over there, too. Check it out.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“I don’t really care ’bout the Mona Lisa. I need a Graceland kind of man who’s always on my mind. I wanna show you off every evening, go out with you in powder blue and tease my hair up high. You’re my velvet Elvis, I ain’t never gonna take you down. Making everybody jealous when they step into my house. Soft to the touch. Feels like love, knew it as soon as I felt it. You’re my velvet Elvis, baby” – “Velvet Elvis” (Musgraves/Hemby/Dick)

Beer Dinners or: The Wisest Piggyback

27 Tuesday Feb 2018

Posted by in Life as We Know It

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Salutations™!!

I’ll admit I’m running out of uses of the word “wise” in the titles of these blogs. But, now that the Willows Bistro/Wise Man Beer dinner has come and gone, I can stop trying to be clever with it. Which brings me to this week’s piggyback. 27866971_2028113177204920_778145288986063139_n

There was no The Man Who Ate the Town podcast this week as I needed to be free for the client with the video that will be played tomorrow morning. So, instead, I wrote a nearly 2000 word review of the gala from Sunday night. Yes, it’s long but necessary, I think. Food people will get it, non-food people won’t so just warning you now to plan accordingly.

Also, in the morning at 8am, the Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership will be holding their annual meeting which includes the 2017 Excellence Awards (the big vid project on which I have been working). So, come hungry. It’s free. Just be there. Say hey. Oh… and you can read that review HERE.

Until tomorrow (early)…
Scorp out!

—
“None of us, including me, ever do great things. But we can all do small things, with great love, and together we can do something wonderful.” – Mother Teresa (for which Wise Man’s Something Wonderful Pale Ale is named)

Silent Sunday or: The Return

25 Sunday Feb 2018

Posted by in Beer

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Salutations™!!

So, The BCPF and I didn’t go to Underdog Records this weekend because we were up in the mountains with The Beer Dads crew, at least most of them. We were missing one couple that has become part of the family. That was a shame but we had a fantastic time up in Asheville. Keep an eye out for The Man Who Ate the Town blog and podcast this week because I’ll be talking about one restaurant, in particular, Cúrate (pronounced coo-rah-tay).

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The Beer Dads group in front of Sierra Nevada’s Asheville facility. “Malt” Disney World.

 

We were in Asheville and that really means one thing: Beer! We visited Sierra Nevada and DANG! that was as someone called “Malt” Disney World. Once you get past the regular pale ale, you get some fantastic brews. Man… That was amazing and it was so beautiful a location, spot, and facility. Unless you go there, you’ll never understand the attraction. I wouldn’t have either. We also visited French Broad Brewery. That was more “our speed.” A little hole in the wall that was like Hoots but with less “class.” The brews were good, there.

We also made our way to Wedge Brewing down around the River Arts District. And after eating a decent meal at Twisted Laurel, we walked down to Wicked Weed‘s brewpub and tap room. We wanted to go to the Funkatorium but we were done. Not a single beer that I had yesterday was under 8%. So, I was tapping out. And, we were back in the room and in bed by 10pm (even before).

Tonight, we’re having more homegrown flavors. The Beer Dads are going to Willows for the Willows/Wise Man Beer Dinner. I think I’ll be off beer except for Wednesday until next week. Tonight, though, is guaranteed to be awesome. I mean, Wise Man and Chefs Travis and Brent. C’mon. We’ve won and we’ve not even gotten there, yet. I’ll be writing/talking about that, this week, as well. Stay tuned!

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Cúrate is a celebration of traditional Spanish cuisine. If you have ever visited Spain, Cúrate’s menu will transport you back to the country of flamenco, olives, almonds, and sherry. If you’ve never been to Spain, Cúrate will introduce you to the country’s lively tapas bar tradition of small plate dining on foods flavored with a touch of sherry, or perhaps smoky paprika, and always the choicest olive oil.” – Cúrate

It Was a Wise Man or: Beer!

23 Friday Feb 2018

Posted by in Beer, Food, Life as We Know It

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Salutations™!!

As The Beer Dads embark on our first actual “mini-vacation” with each other to the nether regions of Asheville, NC, this weekend, I wonder if that will be enough beer for us? I mean, Asheville is the beer capital of the east. Several major breweries from the mid-west and west coast have built their “eastern headquarters” there.

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There are many reasons why, but it has boomed and we are all lucky to have them.

So, yeah, we’re going up there. We’re going to have a lot of beer and food and fun hanging with each other. I said I wonder if there will be enough beer. The good news is, we don’t have to worry because when we get back on Sunday, we will have even more beer to imbibe. Good beer at that!

Sunday, Willows Bistro and Wise Man Brewing from here in WSNC are teaming up to have a fantastical beer pairing dinner. This TEN-course meal will pair the culinary wizardry of Chefs Travis Myers and Brent Andruzzi with the liquid gold (and sometimes black gold) of Wise Man Brewing. Ten courses. Willows. Wise Man.

Man, that’s a lot of awesome at one time. And, The Beer Dads will be doing their return podcast from there and hosting the event. We can’t recommend it enough.

I know what you’re asking. Isn’t The Beer Dads presented by Hoots Beer Company? Why, yes. Yes, we are, but I’ve cleared it with the Hoots folk and they say it’s cool. We’re all good, here. Plus, those breweries are pals, too. I love our beer community here.

So, here’s the thing. Willows has some spaces left open. That’s where you come in. You and your pals/significant others/family (of drinking age of course), should all be there. You should experience this, too.

The cost of the event is $75 per person. But, it’s TEN courses with beer! The food will be amazing, the beer will be amazing, the fun will be amazing. Trust me. You’ll have a wonderful time.

If you’re interested in attending this dinner, contact Willows and make your rezzie now because the event is Sunday. You can call 336-293-4601. Willows is located at 300 S Liberty Street if you didn’t already know. I want to see your smiling and thirsty faces there. Come say hi and come hungry!

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

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“Great Food!! Great Beer!! Great Company!!” – Willows/Wise Man Beer Dinner