Castle Shima

A violinist had a violin, a painter his palette. All I had was myself. I was the instrument that I must care for.
-- Josephine Baker

Ever get in the mood for orchestral music? Maybe not even orchestral per se, but something more mello to match whatever mood you happen to be in.

Ok, maybe its a shite excuse of mine in order to play something abit different than usual. Considering everything going on around me, a chance to breathe wouldnt be such a bad thing. I dont mind being busy, even frenetic, but using the snorkel every day can wear you down.

On the plus side, crazy days like today end up giving way to more creative culinary ideas because there arent too many healthy options late at night. A can of chili and beans, simmered with a combination of ground beef, onions, scallions, and cheese. Pour on top of tortilla chips and off you go.

I'm not sure if there is really a point to this note. I dont think there really was one other than perhaps its times like these where we miss simplicity. Simple, quiet times without the hustle and bustle of every day life.

Or maybe I'm just burned out and I'm whining like a little bitch. In that case, just rub your fingers together to play the world's smallest violin for me.

Return To Innocence by Enigma

Are you upset little friend? Have you been lying awake worrying? Well, don't worry. I'm here. The flood waters will recede, the famine will end, the sun will shine tomorrow, and I will always be here to take care of you.
-- Charlie Brown

Some song covers arent so bad. Some are really different that they can't truly be called covers. They are more like re-imagining of the song.

Case in point; one of Crowded House's most popular songs has been covered by alot of people including Sixpence None The Richer. I personally prefer the original version.

Don't Dream Its Over by Crowded House



The irish group Dove did a hip-hop version of the song which isn't bad, but definately different.

Don't Dream Its Over by Dove


Ah, variety. The spice of life indeed.

We will put no impediment in your way and we will be at dockside bidding you a farewell as you set off into the sunset.
-- Charles M. Lichenstein

Here is a mix of alternative rock with a twist of classic opera. Katherine Jenkins does bloody brilliant cover of Evanescence although I do miss some of the anger that raged in Paul McCoy's voice.

Bring Me To Life by Katherine Jenkins

Little League baseball is a very good thing because it keeps the parents off the streets.
-- Yogi Berra

Hopefully, Coach Pill and Mermaid get a kick out of this one.

Back in the 80s, one of the first concerts I ever got to attend had these two little bands that hardly anyone had ever heard of: Men At Work and their opening act, The Outfield. Both have been favourites of mine since.

Back in the day, it wasnt uncommon for me sing their music all thoughout the night. As matter of fact, I still do sing their songs at night and to be honest, I do it just as badly now as I did back then.

So when I saw the news that The Outfield has the original trio back together and are releasing a new cd, I was totally estatic! This is one group I definately would see again. I will even buy the cd so I can have a physical copy of their work instead of just downloading the songs from Amazon.

Here is the promotional video with drummer Alan Jackman, that had left the band and has now returned.



Since most people are used to hearing Your Love, I opted for a different track.

All The Love In The World by The Outfield


There isnt really a video for this song, but it was another favourite song off of their first album, Play Deep. I have to thank the You Tube user for posting it.

I Don't Need Her by The Outfield


I think I actually have what's left of the original cassette somewhere in the house. I'd be amazed if it still works considering I pretty much wore it out by playing it constantly in the car. Then again I practically wore out the cd playing it on the bedroom stereo, the car stereo, the portable cd player, the boombox, the computer...

Without question, the greatest invention in the history of mankind is beer. Oh, I grant you that the wheel was also a fine invention, but the wheel does not go nearly as well with pizza.
-- Dave Berry

The guys from OK Go are at it again and this was too good to pass up. There is always something about being able to play at your job.

This Too Shall Pass by OK Go


FYI, RGM means Rube Goldberg Machine. If you've never seen one before, just watch an old Tom and Jerry cartoon.

Hat tip to Gizmodo for this tidbit.