alterNate

Coq au vin blanc

2011-01-03T21:38:00.003-06:00

Mel and I made coq au vin using a white and this easy recipe on Bee Sweet.

Favorite Songs of 2010

2010-12-12T20:59:00.003-06:00

The Diamond Church Street Choir - The Gaslight Anthem

Folk Bloodbath - Josh Ritter
Hype Machine

Let Go - JJ

In the Dirt - S. Carey

Thistled Spring - Horse Feathers
Hype Machine

Rome - Yeasayer

Fuck You - Cee Lo Green

Location - Freelance Whales

The Golden Vanity - Crooked Still
Hype Machine

Come Talk To Me (Peter Gabriel) - Bon Iver

Soft Skin - Mountain Man

Sorry To Interrupt - Theophilus London
Hype Machine

Romance is Boring - Los Campesinos!

Swim - Surfer Blood

I Was Thinking... - Gauntlet Hair
Hype Machine

Heartbeat - Nneka

Ever With Us - Bodies of Water
GvB

Daisy - Fang Island

Round and Round - Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti
Hype Machine

Illuminata - ceo
Hype Machine

Do You Remember - Ra Ra Riot

Real Life - Tanlines
Hype Machine

Do Ya Like - Childish Gambino
Artist

C/U - Fol Chen
Hype Machine

Rill Rill - Sleigh Bells

Dancing On My Own - Robyn

Heaven's On Fire - The Radio Dept.

All Delighted People (Original Version) - Sufjan Stevens
Hype Machine

We Used to Wait - Arcade Fire
The Wilderness Downtown

Thousand Ways - The Tallest Man on Earth

3G Data Usage and a Thought on Pay-Per-Use

2010-03-13T21:20:00.006-06:00

From my perspective, the end of unlimited data access from our internet service providers is near. First, Apple announced that the iPad would have an optional, 250 MB cap data plan. Second, Gizmodo referenced recent statements from Verizon and AT&T executives that indicate they're already planning to roll out pay-per-use plans to everybody.

My first my response to these events was to wonder: "How much data do I use each month on my iPhone?" In what eerily seems like expectation of that question from a lot of customers, AT&T has created a section in their online account management called "Billing History". Using this data, which only goes back to November of last year, and manually reading the rest of my usage from my bills dating back to when I got my iPhone 3G (it didn't save my bills from my first-gen iPhone) I put together the following chart.

Ignoring my tethering during holiday travel last year, I averaged around the 250 MB level AT&T offers as the budget plan for iPad users. To me, this means when these plans are finally announced for smartphones, they'll start at much less than 250 MB/month, and I'll be one of the few forced to pay for either a higher cap or unlimited—likely more than the $30/month we all pay today.

So are bandwidth cap plans a terrible thing for consumers? There's still a lot of unknowns that will influence that answer. I was definitely encouraged while reading the details of the iPad service plan. Some of the points I liked:

No contract
Upgrade to a higher plan mid-cycle
The unlimited option hasn't been eliminated

It feels like a departure from the days where the service providers based their profits on charging overage fees. Could the recent legislation targeted at ending similarly anti-consumer practices by credit card companies be having a larger effect in other verticals?

Transition

2010-03-04T14:26:00.003-06:00

I was listening to my Best of 2006 mix (from, uh, 2006) and remembered how much I liked the transition between Neko Case's "A Widow's Toast" and the Decemberists' "The Crane Wife 3".

Best of 2006

Barely humanize

2010-02-28T21:33:00.003-06:00

During my time working on Brewmance, I've been using a flavor of Django on Google AppEngine. In general, it's been a rocky but not impossible experience. However, I often miss the conveniences provided to front-end developers by the Rails platform I use during my nine-to-five.

Tonight in particular I was looking for a worthy match for the Rails date helper "timeago" which converts the difference between two dates (one usually being the current time) and prints them in a very human readable format. Django has a built-in filter set called "humanize" that does something similar. It can take a date and print either "yesterday", "today", "tomorrow", or "February 26, 2010". There's another built-in tag called "timesince" that can take a date and print "1 day, 8 hours". The depth of user experience either provides is as thin as the ice in Vancouver right now.

Web users expect to see natural language in their applications thanks to Facebook and many others. (If you've ever used the old Facebook news story template API, you'd know how much work they put into translating data into perfect pronoun and plurality agreement).

Anyway, the point of this diatribe is that I decided to do a rough port of the Rails "timeago" to a Django template filter.
Check it out on github!

Favorite Songs of 2009

2009-12-18T17:52:00.006-06:00

The annual favorite albums list is coming soon, but I thought I'd break the songs & albums apart this year. Digital download sales continue to rise while physical media sales continue to fall, and (maybe it's just me) but it seems like so many new artists are focusing less on the album and more on the single that might rise to the top of the hypemachine charts. I do want to say I'm not a fan of "cloud-based" music services due to their sub-par audio bit rate, but they're so damn convenient for a list like this!

This list is pretty easy to make, as a quick iTunes smart playlist returns the obvious candidates. Enjoy, and be sure to check back in the next week for my traditional and more in-depth best albums list.

I'm On A Boat - The Lonely Isl...

Mykonos - Fleet Foxes

Laughing With - Regina Spektor

15 to 20 (feat. Lady Tigra) - ...

Orange Shirt - Discovery

People Got A Lotta Nerve - Nek...

Empire State Of Mind (feat. Al...

Two - The Antlers

Feeling The Pull - The Swell S...

1901 - Phoenix

The Great Defector - Bell X1

Her Morning Elegance - Oren La...

40 Day Dream - Edward Sharpe &...

Gifted (Album Version) [feat. ...

Stillness Is The Move - Dirty ...

Black Wax - Dananananaykroyd

Wavin' Flag - K'naan

Dog Days Are Over - Florence &...

Sunlight - Harlem Shakes

Oh My God - Ida Maria

Islands - The xx

Little Secrets - Passion Pit

Two Weeks - Grizzly Bear

Blood Bank - Bon Iver

Lisztomania - Phoenix

The Music of 2009

2009-11-15T23:58:00.010-06:00

Each year these lists get harder to write. Instant gratification blog aggregation means any new band with a catchy hook can explode days after recording and months before ever going on their first tour. Best of the year lists are coming out in November, and each competes to be more pretentious than the last. It's hard to find balance between music everybody's already heard of (because it's good) and music obscure enough to create a unique discovery for the reader. I've decided to scale back the ranked list to only 10 albums this year and leave the rest of the post for discussion.

Standard disclaimer: If you think James Blunt should be on this list, go soak your head. If you have any other opinion, leave a comment!

Top 10 albums

The xx "xx"
Moody and sparse synth-rock with a great male-female duet front. Similar, but not as good as, the Canadian group Stars.
Islands, Heart Skipped a Beat

Passion Pit "Manners"
Passion Pit mastered the hook in their explosive first full-length. And the power of the hook should not be ignored - they went from unknown to SXSW to Lollapallooza to a Palm Pre commercial all in one year. Thank the bloggers for their success and inevitable backlash; a story which continues to repeat itself. While my experience seeing Passion Pit was full of energy and dance, I was occasionally annoyed by the off-key vocals of singer Michael Angelakos.
The Reeling, Little Secrets

Phoenix "Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix"
Phoenix broke into Top 40 radio in a big way with the singles "1901" and "Lisztomania" this year. The album is a nice extension of the two hits and has great replay value.
Lisztomania, Girlfriend

Andrew Bird "Noble Beast"
Andrew Bird is on his own level when it comes to small-label music, and I believe he outdid himself again on this album. Bird's sound is always rich and deep - during both violin solos and orchestral arrangements.
Anonanimal, Tenuousness

Miike Snow "Miike Snow"
Great electro-pop with more maturity and depth than Passion Pit.
Song For No One, Silvia

Grizzly Bear "Veckatimest"
Grizzly Bear turned a lot of heads with the full-length completion of the Two Weeks single that began spinning at the end of last year. They've really found a good mix of their signature dream-prog sound with pop hooks sure catch the masses ears.
While You Wait for the Others, Two Weeks

M Ward "Hold Time"
Matt Ward has a hold on Indie Americana and his solo records should be the envy and blueprint of every upcoming folk artist. "Hold Time" isn't the record that will expand his audience (that's what Monsters of Folk is for) but it's one his fans will enjoy.
One Hundred Million Years, Never Had Nobody Like You (Featuring Zooey Deschanel)

Dirty Projectors "Bitte Orca"
After hearing the chaotically-precise harmonies and instrumentation of the first single "Stillness is the move" I was incredibly curious on how it would sound live. I got that wish during a free show with Sea and Cake early in the summer and was astounded by the precision I heard. Dirty Projectors put out a refreshing, progressive sound at a time when Indie Rock is homogenizing like crazy.
No Intention, Stillness is the Move

Various Artists "Dark Was The Night (Red Hot Compilation)"
Indie charity compilations are pretty common of late, but this 2-disc set of timeless covers, star-power collaborations, and fresh new material for the (RED) organization is the strongest I've ever seen.
Blood Pt 2, Knotty Pine

The Decemberists "The Hazards of Love"
This was a satisfying album and I had the privilege to see it performed live twice last year. In the words of Melissa Johnson:

"following the success of their first major label album (The crane wife, 2006), curiosity surrounded the indie giant's sophomore album with Capitol. Lead singer Colin Meloy started with a title track and built the rest of the album around that song, weaving a dark tale of love and danger. This style is not unfamiliar to The Decemberists, I.e. The Crane Wife parts 1-3 and The Tain EP, but the album manages to avoid a campy quality, instead seducing the listener with it's seamless movements from one tragic song to the next. Always intriguing, Meloy's artful lyrics found a perfect counterpart in guest singer Shara Worden ( My Brightest Diamond). As the voice of the forest queen, Worden embodies a character both frightening and fascinating, which qualities were especially impressive to hear live."
The Hazards of Love 2 (Wager All), The Wanting Comes In Waves / Repaid

Notable Mixes

Roll the windows down. Turn th...

A Cold August

Best of 2009

Malloc Misunderstandings

2009-05-31T16:59:00.003-05:00

I have been pulling my hair out lately with iPhone development memory management techniques in Objective-C, and I thought I'd share one of my recent understandings.

I had a nib-based view controller that I wanted to use as a tableHeaderView for my UITableViewController. I created the classes for my custom view (we'll call it CustomHeaderViewController) and imported them into my UITableViewController subclass. I want to manipulate the IBOutlets of the CustomHeaderViewController, so I wanted to keep a reference to the class. For this I'll auto-synthesize getters and setters for retaining.

Here's my CustomTableView.h at this point:

#import "CustomHeaderViewController.h"

@interface CustomTableView : UITableViewController {

CustomHeaderViewController *tableHeader;

}

@property (nonatomic, retain) CustomHeaderViewController *tableHeader;

In my implementation of the CustomTableView, I put in the proper @synthesize code and make sure I'm releasing tableHeader in my dealloc method. So far, so good (and so simple).

@implementation CustomTableView

@synthesize tableHeader;

- (void)viewDidLoad {

[super viewDidLoad];

// initialize my table header here.

}

- (void)dealloc {

[tableHeader release];

tableHeader = nil;

[super dealloc];

}

Here's where my mistake began. I know that the UITableView has a setTableHeaderView method, so I used it, directly allocating my new CustomHeaderViewController as I did it.

- (void)viewDidLoad {

[super viewDidLoad];

self.tableHeader = [[CompanyTableViewHeader alloc] init];

[self.tableView setTableHeaderView: tableHeader.view];

}

My project builds correctly, and everything seems to work fine, but there's a memory leak. To see this, let's look at the retain counts in my code now:

- (void)viewDidLoad {

[super viewDidLoad];

// [tableHeader retainCount] == 0

self.tableHeader = [[CustomHeaderViewController alloc] init];

// [tableHeader retainCount] == 2

[self.tableView setTableHeaderView: tableHeader.view];

// [tableHeader retainCount] == 2

}

- (void)dealloc {

// [tableHeader retainCount] == 2

[tableHeader release];

// [tableHeader retainCount] == 1

tableHeader = nil;

[super dealloc];

}

So when my UITableViewController is deallocated, the CustomHeaderViewController instance still has a retain count of 1. The problem lied in the line where I first allocated the instance (creating a retainCount of 1), and immediately assigned it to the to the tableHeader pointer (bumping the retainCount to 2). I can do two things to remedy this. First, I could change my tableHeader setter to only assign instead of retain:

@property (nonatomic, assign) CustomHeaderViewController *tableHeader;

The preferred way, however, would be to allocate the CustomHeaderViewController to a temporary pointer, then release it when done.

- (void)viewDidLoad {

[super viewDidLoad];

CustomHeaderViewController *header = [[CustomHeaderViewController alloc] init];

self.tableHeader = header;

[header release];

[self.tableView setTableHeaderView: tableHeader.view];

}

There you go. I hope this post saves someone the hour of debugging I've already lost!

P.S.: I apologize for the styles of the code snippets, I have never posted code on this blog before. If you have recommendations on how to improve formatting when copy-pasting from Xcode to the Blogger WYSIWYG editor, let me know!

[[Updates alloc] init]

2009-05-31T16:31:00.006-05:00

I haven't updated this blog in a long time, as I've been so busy with other projects. Since I'm no longer halfway around the world from many of those who would care to hear about my day-to-days, and I have fewer causes to champion since Barack Obama became Mr. President, I'm not sure where this blog quite fits in.

Here's what I'm up to now:

Though it's been moving slower than I'd prefer, brewmance.com is wrapping up alpha development. The founding purpose of the site is to help cultivate a relationship between casual beer drinkers and beers worth drinking. There is such a rich, rapidly growing selection of micro- and craft brews in the United States but the interested audience is still small. While we can't change the fact that most bars only carry mediocre (and now foreign owned) big brands, we can encourage users to seek out a selection of beers they can fall in love with.

Our access barrier is intentionally low: answer 5 questions about your tastes and personality and we'll return you 5 beers from our proprietary engine. You can then optionally register for a Brewmance profile (using your Google Account) and save your tasting queue for future access. Having a profile makes it easy to review beers you've tried and receive additional recommendations based on your feedback.

Head over to brewmance.com now to sign up for a notification when our alpha preview is ready for testing.

I've also been auditing the iPhone Application Programming (CS193P) course at Stanford through iTunes U. My very limited history in C development has helped, but overall it's been a huge learning curve to overcome. I can't stress how rewarding it's been so far, though. Assuming the demand inertia for native applications keeps growing, these will be valuable skills to keep up.

Another wedding season is here, and I've got some real exciting and beautiful events on my plate for this summer. In addition, we're evangelizing our services on our blog and Facebook.

So I'll try to keep this space updated with updates on the above 3 projects and whatever new comes by. If you're still subscribed, or happened to browse through, thanks for reading!

Thoughts on a U2 song

2009-01-18T22:16:00.004-06:00

With the impending holiday and the inauguration of Hope, I decided to queue up "MLK" by U2. I'm feeling really self-conscious giving any attention to a band who has had all too much, but this is a great song and an old song, so please withhold your judgement.

After one play through (a short 2:32) I played it again. And a third, and fourth time. Then I opened Wikipedia. The article had some important tidbits, including that it was the original selection for the closing sequence of Donnie Darko, but factoids can't begin to describe the feelings invoked by a song like this. So here's my attempt.

The long, quiet streets of Chicago are parabolically lit by yellow street lamps, a poor excuse for a sun long set. You can follow their path from north to south and ask yourself why there is such a contrasting divide in development, in income, in color. "It's an injustice!" I cry, when others listen, but I will never move south of 35th. I can sleep soundly because I have seen my dreams come true with little effort. I do not lie awake and ponder how my ancestors loosed the chains from the arms of a people but did not grasp their hands. I do not wonder why though my ancestors relented to share their drinking fountains, they are slow to fix the water mains of New Orleans. I do not ask these questions because I know the answers, and I know that I am just as selfish as the men I wish to condemn. May it be your children who sleep soundly, Dr. King. May their dreams be realized, even at my expense. Especially at my expense.

Sleep
Sleep tonight
And may your dreams
Be realized
If the thunder cloud
Passes rain
So let it rain
Rain down on him
Mmm...mmm...mmm...
So let it be
Mmm...mmm...mmm...
So let it be
Sleep
Sleep tonight
And may your dreams
Be realized
If the thundercloud
Passes rain
So let it rain
Let it rain
Rain on him

Best Music of 2008

2008-12-20T12:23:00.003-06:00

The best albums of 2008, per nate, can be found below. In my fifth annual listing very little has changed: short, inane blurbs written on my train ride back to Detroit space out what is otherwise a concise selection. The difference between me and real music blogs is the ascending order, which I'll continue to do until a CSS standard is in place to count reverse in an <ol> tag. If you think James Blunt should be on this list, go soak your head. If you have any other opinion, leave a comment!

Albums

Bon Iver "For Emma, Forever Ago"
Folk-rock that is passionate and intimate is something I treasure, and treasure this album I did. At times I was frustrated with the production, especially after hearing Justin Vernon and his band live, but the powerful songs shine through. What drove this album to the top was the staying power in my rotation. For 10 months I kept this going and I don't see stopping anytime soon... as long as it keeps snowing in Chicago.
Skinny Love, Stacks

Ra Ra Riot "The Rhumb Line"
This album wouldn't be much different than most other indie-pop records if it weren't for the amazing choice of having a full-time cellist and violinist as members. So unlike most bands who's four-piece live show can't think to bring their studio strings, Ra Ra Riot keeps it real. This album has sustained energy in every track and has yet to bore me.
Winter '05, Run My Mouth

Coldplay "Viva La Vida (or Death and All His Friends)"
Rumor has it, Brian Eno told Chris Martin and troupe, "your songs all sound the same." This album is evident of Eno's production skill, with varied sound and energy... for a Coldplay album. Honestly, though, after the second listen I was hooked.
Lovers in Japan / Reign of Love, 42

Vampire Weekend "Vampire Weekend" I put "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa" on some of my Best of 2007 mixes last year, and like so many others was excited for the release of the full-length album. However, as the release neared, the sheer numbers of anticipating people created a buzz that quickly created it's own backlash... especially after MTV featured the band. The story didn't end here, however, because the album turned out to be quite good, and even though main-stream was listening, those who feed off of rejecting mainstream couldn't help but listen along. Of course, the band never asked for this strange setup and shouldn't have it held against them. M89, Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa

She & Him "Volume One"
M. Ward and Zooey Deschanel team up and make music? It was a dream come true. I loved the 60s throw-back sound and want to make a Super-8 film for every track. This disc has a broad appeal and I would recommend it to almost anybody.
Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?, Sweet Darlin'

Crooked Still "Still Crooked"
I don't know how I would have been turned onto a bluegrass band if it weren't for some internet boredom, but I couldn't stop listening to this album. I caught them perform at the newly-renovated Morse Theater this fall and it was the most beautiful-sounding show I saw this year (well, next to my first time seeing Bon Iver).
Undone in Sorrow, Did You Sleep Well?

MGMT "Oracular Spectacular" Technically a 2007 release, but since I hadn't found the album until this year (and everybody else seems to be including it in their list) it needs a mention. This is a brilliant rock record with lyrics of heavy nostalgia that I often enjoyed on a lazy Saturday morning. Kids, Electric Feel

Death Cab for Cutie "Narrow Stairs" In my book it's hard for Ben Gibbard to do wrong, and he doesn't here. However, my listening records will reveal I still spent more time listening to The Photo Album this year. Narrow Stairs has some great tracks, and it was definitely more rock-y than Plans, but it still doesn't have the coherence of a great album for me yet. Give Chris Walla his production props, though: This is the most polished-sounding Death Cab record yet. Cath..., Bixby Canyon Bridge

Fleet Foxes "Fleet Foxes" Soft, beautiful folk of the type that I tend to overly enjoy is supplemented by choral, multi-part harmonies. This is calming, iPod-friendly music I found myself retreating to often. Ragged Wood, White Winter Hymnal

Jenny Lewis "Acid Tongue" I loved 2006's "Rabbit Fur Coat", and was really excited for this release. Jenny broadens her scope on this effort to include a bigger rock sound and includes some amazing guests including Elvis Costello and M. Ward. Trying My Best, Fernando

The Submarines "Honeysuckle Weeks" You will rarely find a better album to listen to on your way to work. The first track opens with, "If you live in the city / And you want it to burn," and the painfully famous iPhone commercial selection a few tracks later continues with "Everyday I wake up, I choose Love, I choose Light; And I try, it's too easy just to fall apart." Stop ruining my favorite finds for me, Apple. You Me and the Bourgeoisie, Swimming Pool

Mates of State "Re-arrange Us" I can't turn down great pop, especially with strings. Mates of State have put out good records in the past, but the formula really worked for me with this one. The Re-arranger, Get Better

Sigur Rós "Med Sud I Eyrum Vid Spilum Endalaust" In an unexpected move, slow-moving moody Sigur Rós puts out a fast-paced energetic record with a page from the Polyphonic Spree. Inni Mer Syngur Vitleysingur, Gobbledigook

The Ting-Tings "We Started Nothing"
This duo isn't the first or the last indie dance-rock group with catchy tunes and female vocals, but they did it best this year for me.
The Underdog, The Ghost of You Lingers

Neil Halstead "Oh! Mighty Engine"
Excellent whisper-rock releases like this make me wish that mediocre guys like Joshua Radin and Jack Johnson didn't get all the attention. I can't hate too much on Jack Johnson, though, as his label put this record out.
Queen Bee, Paint a Face

The Gaslight Anthem "The '59 Sound" Poetic anthem-rock that will certainly draw similarities to The Hold Steady. And since I never got around to listening to the new Hold Steady record, I never got to compare it to this one and maybe I've rated this one higher than I should. I would give The Hold Steady the upper-hand on lyrics, especially because I'm not sure how I feel about how the track "High Lonesome" includes words from The Counting Crows' "Round Here", one of my all-time favorite songs. The '59 Sound, Here's Lookin' At You, Kid

Nada Surf "Lucky"
Some solid pop-rock from a band who has finally shed the radio-hit "Popular" from their tour set list. Chris Walla had a hand in the recording here, which increases the chances for a positive review.
Weightless, I Like What You Say

The Weepies "Hideaway"
The first-full length from this now-married duo was my #1 pick in 2006, but the follow-up was more of the same... and I had grown tired of the same. This is not to say it isn't as good as the first; it's maybe even a bit better.
Orbiting, Lighting Candles

Cut Copy "In Ghost Colours"
Electro-dance pop that doesn't become over-bearing. Not as good as MGMT, but few things are.
Lights & Music, So Haunted

Lemuria "Get Better"
There was this song by this band called "Jail" in the early 90s that I loved. Lemuria reminded me of them in such a way few others never even tried. It's a very garage-rock sound with a female front.
Pants, Yesterday's Lunch

And More

Girl Talk "Feed The Animals"
Mash-ups are nothing new, but this release screams genius - the tracks are interwoven from up to 30 different songs. It's fun to sit down and analyze once or twice, but I found myself listening to it much more with little thought of where the samples came from. These are unique, self-standing creations.
Still Here, In Step

Colin Meloy "Colin Meloy Sings Live!"
Decemberists front-man invites the world to experience his awesome, intimate solo show. "Wonder" is a beautiful, unreleased track about his son and is worth the price of the entire album.
Wonder, Devil's Elbow

Lisa Hannigan "Sea Sew"
I always loved Lisa Hannigan's voice, and my high expectations for this album (officially releasing in 2009) led to a little disappointment when I finally heard it after picking it up at a show recently. I'll re-evaluate after some more listens and we'll see where I stand. Maybe it'll reappear on this list next year.
I Don't Know, Ocean and a Rock

Rosie Thomas "A Very Rosie Christmas"
Rosie Thomas gets my Christmas record nod this year (though, Steven Colbert, you were a consideration). Sufjan Stevens, where are you?

Cat Power "Jukebox" Pretty much another "Covers Record". You can't go wrong with her voice. Aretha, Sing One For Me (George Jackson), Woman Left Lonely (Janis Joplin)

Chris Walla "Field Manual" Chris Walla is a genius producer, and he shares his talent with himself here in a long-anticipated solo album. His touch usually is pretty apparent in my yearly lists (The Crane Wife, The Con) but I didn't find his songwriting isn't spectacular, and the lyrics are maybe a little too political (in true Walla fashion), but I spun it through a few times. Geometry &c., Everyone Needs A Home

"Juno (Music From the Motion Picture)" Okay, I didn't like this album. Kimya Dawson deserves too much credit for these songs. (Though I do recommend checking out some of her material... try "12/26"). I loved the movie, however, and the use of the music within that environment. Just don't play me the record.

Discussion

So where did I find new music this year? My mainstays haven't changed much:
Podcasts. NPR's All Songs Considered and KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic regularly provide me with great new music which iTunes is downloading and syncing to my phone: all I have to do is find time to push play, which is admittedly not always easy to do.
Blogs. I have found myself relying even more upon The Fire Note. With sometimes-daily reviews and helpful "bands with similar fire" I can quickly decide whether or not I'll put it in my "to listen" pile. Chicagoist has a great "Rocking our Turntable" feature which has some good introductions as well.
Radio. As far as internet radio goes, I just don't have time to succumb to the Pandora gods. The time I do have to listen to music, I want to decide what it is, and also the desire to stream to my Airport Express when I'm home limits the web-based options.
I do use last.fm not for their radio but their listening data. For the extra-geeky, there's lastgraph, with which I made the chart at the top of this entry.
Buy. Once music moves from the "to listen" pile to the "to buy" pile, my first choice is emusic. My monthly subscription is equivalent to $0.24/song but is limited to only small or specialty labels. This is rarely a problem - the majority of my "best of" list is available.
If it's not, I now turn to Amazon MP3. With good-quality DRM-free downloads often a few cents cheaper than the iTunes store, I've eliminated my need for that tempting retailer altogether.
Library. It's been iTunes for 5 years now, and I can't imagine it'll be anything else. I rely on the ratings data to help me make this list every year, and to quickly find my favorite tracks for transfer to my limited-storage phone. I would love a subscription model like the Zunepass, which also gets you 10 "keep" downloads a month, but I wouldn't dare use that second-rate hardware.

Halloween

2008-11-01T16:23:00.009-05:00

While brainstorming for costume ideas, my roommate suggested I be a music player. I had seen iPod costumes for years and didn't want to join their ranks; a Walkman seemed to be more original and still simple to create.

Because of my recent move, there was no shortage of cardboard boxes. I used one large one for the body and one small one cut up for the buttons.

I extended the idea further by using two VHS movies found on clearance (Divine Secrets of the YaYa Sisterhood and Blue Crush) for their spools and yards of magnetic tape.

For a more complete look, I wore a tracksuit along with sweatbands on my head and wrists and my Kangaroos. More noticeable than these details, however, was a pair of ancient computer speakers taped to the inside and connected to my iPhone playing a mix of 80's and 90's favorites. The speakers, without supplemental power, were too soft to hear during the crowded parties, but loud enough to turn heads on the El.

The costume was extremely successful, and as other guests looked in awe I asked them to write the name of the first cassette they owned on my back. The responses were strikingly condensed to just a handful of albums: Ace of Base - Happy Nation, Green Day - Dookie, Oasis - (What's the Story) Morning Glory, and TLC - Crazy Sexy Cool.

My album art wall

2008-10-26T18:42:00.006-05:00

Not long before moving into my new apartment, I saw this post about an easy way to build an album-art wall. It became top decorating priority once I was settled, as I'm super-proud of my old turntable.

I followed the original instructions almost exactly, save pre-drilling small guide holes for the screws. I would also stress the importance of leveling, as any crooked covers will be very apparent when finished.

The extension of the project came with displaying my roommate's vintage magazines. However, they aren't very sturdy due to not having a unified bottom. I plan to find protective covers at a nearby comic book store when I get the chance.

How To Build an Album Art Wall on the Cheap [Lifehacker]

Genius: You Don't Know Me!

2008-09-09T19:51:00.019-05:00

Compared to the endless tech blogs that litter this internet, I am often too intimidated to weigh-in on much of the daily geek buzz. I consider myself far from an expert on the subjects most seen, except when it comes to music libraries, or more specifically in my biased-fanboy world, iTunes.
Today marked the release of iTunes 8.0, the latest release of Apple's very popular bloatware music software. Included in the list of new features is the "Genius" recommendation tool, which promises to make you a playlist of similar songs in your library to the one you choose.
I'm intrigued, but immediately skeptical. On the music snob scale of 1-10, I'm an 11. I don't want to give iTunes the chance to think it knows my music taste better than I do. In another world, I might even ignore the upgrade, but in this one I have an irrational trust for Steve & Co. and a complex about downloading software updates, so I made sure I had started the download before I even sat down after work.

The first thing Genius does is send my entire listing of library songs (and ratings, play counts, and who knows what else) to Apple's servers. Pure gold for advertising groups, given willingly by not reading a long textbox of Terms and Conditions before clicking "I Accept".

Half an hour later, I started playing a recent favorite addition to my library: "Three Fishers" by The Duhks. I thought this unique because I don't have a whole lot of bluegrass-inspired music in my library. But the Genius surprised me. Choosing a list of 25 songs (default setting, can be changed) with no artist's work appearing more than twice, it crossed from the starting Genre of Country to include Rock, Pop, Indie Rock, Indie Pop, Folk, and Alternative Folk. Now since the iTunes store doesn't sell albums with the genre "Alternative Folk" (that's more of an AMG tag), I determined these recommendations are directly related to the songs themselves, and are likely queried by title and artist and linked to a unique song id from the iTunes music store. This is what was happening during the half-hour of Genius warm-up.

Testing that theory, I tried to Genius a Moveable Furniture song. The Moveable Furniture are not sold on the iTMS, and instead of embarrassing itself (or The Furniture) by suggesting I listen to "MMM Bop" next, Genius gave me the following message:

This is a good sign. How about a little-known artist who is sold on the iTMS?

Tom Butwin returned results similar to those listed on his MySpace page under "Influences" including the Dave Matthews Band. Genius also put some John Mayer on the playlist, and although Tom didn't list Mr. Mayer as an influence, everyone knows he has John Mayer hair.

I have a few songs in my library that stand alone in their genre. One of these is Ziggy Marley's "Love is My Religion". The song came from iTunes as a free download, and just to make sure iTunes had the song linked, I clicked the small arrow next to the song in my library (which curiously can no longer be turned off in the iTunes preferences) and sure enough I was taken straight to the song in the store.

What songs in my Reggae-less library could the Genius possible recommend based on a Ziggy Marley tune?

None. And I'm glad it didn't even try.

One last test: What happens if I Genius a song I don't particularly enjoy? Back in 2005 I saw the Zutons open for Keane and decided I enjoyed the show enough to buy the album. Unfortunately, after playing it at home I quickly tired of the sound and felt annoyed whenever it would come on. Can the Genius create a playlist of other songs that marginally make my ears bleed but I'm too embarrassed to delete? It can.

I don't dislike any of those other songs as much as the Zutons ones, but I'd expect all those tracks to have similar Skip Counts.

The thing that really blows my mind about the Genius system is that it all must happen offline (did I mention bloatware?) for the feature to be included in the newly-released iPod nano. Apple alluded to the offline-functionality when they mentioned that linking data would be updated weekly. I suppose it has its pro's and con's, but as my MacBook ages (and my iPhone battery drains) I'd prefer as much processing as possible to be done in the cloud.

Overall, I'm pretty impressed with Genius on initial prodding. Time will tell if I'll actually use the feature for my own listening pleasure. I do foresee using it when a friend is nearby and says, "Wow! I love that song. What else you got?" Then I'll let the Genius work and take all the credit for myself.

Employment

2008-08-23T12:02:00.007-05:00

Maybe I'm crazy.

For six months I have had a miracle job: simply, I was paid full-time for working no-time, and I spent this no-time in my own apartment, in my underwear.
I had "won life's lottery," said one friend.

But then I decided to quit, taking a full-time job and all that usually entails: 40+ hours a week in a chair, 7-10 hours a week commuting to-and-from that chair, office politics, lunchroom gossip, bending the lines of business casual, excess coffee, "turning in early" on weeknights, using the word "oppression" flippantly, hiding a GMail window behind the corporate website window, ridiculous email forwards, exhausted happy hours, "how was your weekend?", making friends with the candy jar coworker, ashamedly sneaking stale twix from the vending machine, basing the day's morale on free breakfast food, and working.

So why did I quit? Well for one, I just can't bear to leave Chicago right now: a constant threat from my old employer. It came to the point where it was worth trading all my lottery winnings and executing the great experiment of "can I remember how to handle real life" to stay.

MiracleFruitWorld.com

2008-07-25T12:25:00.002-05:00

A short note from your favorite sell-out:
www.miraclefruitworld.com is the best place to get the fruit tablets. The tablet-form has a longer shelf life and is believed by many to be more potent. I can vouch for both the effectiveness of the product and the legitimacy of the vendor. A lot of resellers have sprung up in the last few months... in fact one of them was just featured in Thrillist, but www.miraclefruitworld.com offers both lower prices and the piece of mind that comes from many happy customers.

One Year Ago Today

2008-07-17T23:59:00.004-05:00

On July 18, 2007 I stepped onto a plane from Detroit Metropolitan Airport, knowing in only a few days I'd find myself the farthest away I'd ever been from everything I knew. I can't quite remember or describe how I felt that day, just as I'm sure at the time I couldn't dream or predict how I'd feel one year later. But the year passed, and I imagine I'm just as unsure and directionless now as I was then.

The complete title of the following is "In the Margins of My College-Ruled Notebook V", and I wrote it during the turmoil and uncertainty of graduating.

DATE: 02/06/2007 02:20:44 AM
-----
BODY:
I could tell you how I'm just afraid
I could tell you how I stayed behind
I could go on for hours and say nothing
I could tell you how I made up my mind

I might think to ask a stupid question
I might think to try to cut in line
I might want to ignore all the little rules
I might think to make my own design

Next year I'll make a living chasing sunsets
And write a book on how we're all insane
Next month I'll move to somewhere west of paris
And give a speech on how to live in spain
Next week I'll call up all my friends and neighbors
And give a toast to each with fine champagne
Tomorrow I'll set out upon my journey
And I'll never be the same

It's obvious that I don't fit the mold
It's obvious I knew that in advance
It's wrong to say that life will just work out
It's obvious that I don't stand a chance

Next year I'll make a living chasing sunsets
And write a book on how we're all insane
Next month I'll move to somewhere west of paris
And give a speech on how to live in spain
Next week I'll call up all my friends and neighbors
And give a toast to each with fine champagne
Tomorrow I'll set out upon my journey
And I'll never be the same

I thought that life was a four-lane highway
I thought that I could simply fall in line
Some plans are made carefully with time
but still others need a bottle of old wine

Next year I'll make a living chasing sunsets
And write a book on how we're all insane
Next month I'll move to somewhere west of paris
And give a speech on how to live in spain
Next week I'll call up all my friends and neighbors
And give a toast to each with fine champagne
Tomorrow I'll set out upon my journey
And I'll never be the same

I didn't know how literal the "journey" would be when I wrote that, but at the same time I don't believe it was ever just India.
So, what will the next year bring? I know it's foolish to think there will be a date somewhere in my future where I'm content, but I find myself believing it daily. But despite the hazy road ahead, the last 365 days were not for loss. And I can only hope that no matter how unsure and directionless I feel on the July 18ths to come I never count the year wasted.

About Me

2008-07-07T18:40:00.009-05:00

When faced with filling in a text-box titled "About Me" I usually default to, "I'm a nate, urinate." But I always guessed that wasn't entirely true. So this afternoon I free-wrote an answer:

By trade, I am a man of numbers and figures. By choice, I am a storyteller with an insatiable appetite for human experience. Without this balance, I will spiral down into a life of responsibility and dreamlessness.

In my dreams I own a cafe where the guests can purchase my wares with an essay, poem, song, or film. They don't even have to be well-written. In my cafe, there are many tables for four, and six, and eight, but still adequate tables for one. I've placed it in the most ideal latitude where the nights are breezy and warm but you can still see the northern lights. It is on a cliff overlooking a beach (with a convenient path down), and I live in a small cottage closeby. The body of water resembles both Lake Michigan and the Arabian Sea. My cafe is open 24 hours. My cafe has free wi-fi, but I have instructed management to block any business-related use.

There are two main rooms in my cafe. The first one, closest to the entrance, is well-lit and sociable. Friends meet, artists paint, poets write, and some people just sit and watch everybody else with their white earbuds in. The walls in this front room are covered in photos of guests, mostly from polaroid instant film. There are photos on top of photos, leaving no room for flyers or handbills. Each photo contains a salutation and signature of its subject, so each time it is viewed it feels like a personal letter to the onlooker. With Love, Jacob. Beating Heart, Leah. Under The Stars, Dahlia.

The tables in the back room are aligned towards a performance space against the cliff-facing wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, which during the day are usually opened vertically with a top-hinge and hooked to the ceiling. At night, however, sheer black curtains are drawn and the lighting is dim. During the early evenings, my guests can listen to a lecture taught by any volunteer, no Ph. D. required. Later in the evening the stage is reserved for performance art: musicians, beat poets, dancers and dramatists flock to fill the always-full but never booked-too-far-in-advance schedule. Every once in a while, I like to stand on the cliff with the water to my back and stare at the faint glow of the stage emitting through the curtains.

Birthdays of guests both new and old are celebrated by strangers and friends alike. On these occasions, the guest of honor is honored by superlatives and affirmations of only the most sincere form. There is no birthday song or clapping or free cake unless requested.

When regular guests announce that it will be their last visit due to an impending move or extended international travel, they are instructed to remove photos from the front-room wall of friends and memories they wish to cherish, in exchange for one last photo of themselves. It never seems to be a final goodbye, for so many that have left will make their way through again while visiting the region for a wedding, vacation, or pilgrimage of self-rediscovery.

When asked if I will ever leave, I cannot give a certain answer. For here in my cafe I have human experience at its fullest and emptiest, for unlike my guests I cannot call it my Shangri-La. And I'm not sure anyone can live in Shangri-La forever.

Miracle Fruit Party

2008-07-04T04:19:00.002-05:00

[youtube video]

flavor tripping. a group of young hipsters find a distraction from the monotony of post-college life after a plethora of blog posts popped up last month about the effects of "Miracle Fruit", a small berry native to west africa that supposedly makes sour foods taste sweet.

in the 1970s, a group of scientists and entrepreneurs attempted to commercialize the Miraculin protein found in the berries as a low-calorie sweetener, but was stopped short by the FDA, who many believe was bribed by the sugar industry. The craze never began, and the berry remained under the radar. Until May 28th, 2008, when the New York Times covered a flavor-tripping party in Brooklyn, and turned the heads of an internet-savvy thrill-seeking generation, like these ten twenty-somethings, in Chicago, Illinois.

the premise of the party is simple: every guest brings a different food item with enough for everybody to share. but as the miracle tablets are passed around it looks less like your mother's potluck and more like a cult meeting.

i + Tunes

2008-06-24T17:26:00.005-05:00

In the summer of 2004, I devoted an unquantifiable amount of time I'll never get back to rating each and every song in my iTunes library. It was often haphazard and included an expected amount of sleep-deprived misjudgment.

The following February, I created a plot of the amount of songs with each rating (1 to 5) joined by a faux-curve. To my surprise, it wasn't too far from a normalized bell. Just recently, it occurred to me to re-sample that data, and here it is:

I was curious about the possible shift to the right, so I decided to plot a normalized version, too:

It led me to draw a few conclusions. First, I've slowly adjusted my original ratings of some of the original batch, often "upping" their value. Second, I've either been less "harsh" as I rate new additions, or I've been more picky about what I choose to add.

What I find even more interesting is my Artist listening history for the last three years, thanks to last.fm and lastgraph. Through tremendously complex stacked-line graphs, I can clearly see blips of which bands I was into when, and make my guesses of why: album release, friend's recommendation, or deeper emotional reason. File this one under geek.

The Painter's Job

2008-06-13T16:34:00.003-05:00

What I've done at work this week. (click to see)

One of my greatest fears in life is to be forced to create something for someone who doesn't know what they want. (Yet, it's the same task I've given every hairdresser I've seen)
This week I've faced that fear: and begun to attempt to deliver "something involving the evolution of human society and it's wealth managers". Seriously, this is both the most fun I've had and most annoyed I've felt with my job.

The Painter

2008-06-12T23:27:00.002-05:00

an empty stage before it's set
the painter's canvas tightly stretched
upon a frame that's seen him fail before

his fingers stained from cigarettes
and paint that stays forever wet
and with the brush extend to start once more

with flow of wrist and flick of hand
a story starts to fill the man
who never seemed to get the ending right

as hours pass, he pushes on
racing just to beat the dawn
and in his heart believes this time he might

but as the sun begins to rise
the man steps back to rub his eyes
his glaring imperfections come to light

he couldn't keep himself from thinking
his work conveyed a deeper meaning
than aging hands were trained to show that night

and did Picasso and Monet
ever stop and feel the same?
will his creation summon praise someday?

Now he'll pretend he doesn't care
and leave it hanging, crooked there
the painter fights to push his doubts away

as he goes on to paint another day

Save Your Summer Soul

2008-06-05T18:16:00.004-05:00

Summer is here, and it's time to move the guitars to the back to make room for the horns and organ.

Save Your Summer Soul

California Soul - Marlena Shaw
Where It's At - Beck
I Want You Back - Jackson 5
The Glory - Kanye West
Going On - Gnarls Barkley
Mahna, Mahna - Cake
Valerie - Mark Ronson f. Amy Winehouse
Why Do You Let Me Stay Here - She & Him
Song for Sunshine - Belle & Sebastian
Friday Night at the Drive-In Bingo - Jens Lekman
The Bitch is Back - Elton John
Butterfly - Jason Mraz
Midnight Train to Georgia - Gladys Night

Chic-a-go-go

2008-05-27T21:47:00.006-05:00

Watching public access television has never brought me such unexpected joy as it did today. Today, I stumbled on Chic-a-go-go. Starring Ratso the rat and Miss Mia, this long-running show features short interviews with artists and bands followed by a very un-choreographed dance sequence with a studio audience. I couldn't turn my eyes away as Chicagoan's young and old awkwardly shuffled to the sounds of Bloc Party.

Ratso and Miss Mia

Polar Bears

2008-05-22T22:32:00.002-05:00

have now joined the endangered species list. Photo of a children's environmental drawing contest winner from the Sentosa aquarium in Singapore.

Green Week

2008-04-25T16:27:00.007-05:00

The mass-market has gone "green", or so they say.
All this week on TV, in print, and around the interweb, the already over-buzzed green movement has reached new heights. We've seen the tipping point.
If I had a dollar for every time I've seen a CFL, the marketing poster-child, or heard the vague phrase "enough energy to power X homes" this week, I might have enough to buy a tank of gas.

Sadly, it's all spin. Nobody wants to be left behind. Example: the new Chevy Tahoe commercials:

[Hybrids are feathers, SUVs are bricks]

Do people really believe they're making a tangible positive effect on the environment by changing their light bulbs or buying a Tahoe? Or are they obeying what the media tells them? And for those who do believe they're helping, are they victim of smoke and mirrors marketing? Is it even about conscience? After all, the Prius is the new status symbol.

I can't answer these questions, which are distractingly more about sociology than saving the earth. But as of today, I am living carless. Am I better than you? (that is, of course, another motivation for many people to live green) Yes. Just don't tell anybody that I don't recycle.

Ingrid

2008-04-14T18:09:00.002-05:00

Ingrid's time has finally come. There was never much love: it was a purely physical relationship. I'm looking forward to new pursuits and collecting on the insurance money she left me.

Rest In Peace. Or don't; whatever. See if I care.

Jens Lekman @ Logan Square Auditorium, 3/31/2008

2008-04-06T16:16:00.006-05:00

My second concert in the second city was conveniently located right in my neighborhood.
Jens Lekman is a renowned name in Swedish indie pop - a genre with talent to spare already. He injects quite a bit of humor in his work, but I'm hesitant to peg Jens as a comic artist, because I don't want to suggest his act becomes tiresome quickly like the Flight of the Conchords or Weird Al Yankovic.
Jens writes songs with over-the-top melodic ties to an earlier era and storytelling dripping with sardonic sweetness. It's the most original cliché you'll ever hear.
After announcing he wanted this show to be special (and to refrain from recording it on your digital P&S), he began a magical, short, hour. The crowd had more fun than they'd had all weekend; I hardly remember that I in fact remained standing still.
I can't guarantee the magic will come from the record alone, but if you get a chance, pick up his latest: "Night Falls Over Kortedala" and to hear a taste of his wonderful storytelling, check out his SXSW performance as recorded by NPR's All Songs Considered.

Supporting the show was fellow Swede Mikael Carlsson (as The Honeydrips) and midwest-born Marla Hansen.

My Apartment-Warming Party

2008-03-21T00:31:00.010-05:00

Scene 1:
Showing up early, Joan wasted no time dancing on the coffee table to the phat sounds of my new DJ friend.

Scene 2:
Things start to get going as Bill entertains the guests, not the least of which was Barack and Michelle.
Al was kind enough to take out the trash: in fact, he insisted on it.

Scene 3:
Unfortunately, John wasn't into the DJ as much as his sister was. He decided to stand in the corner with his own tunes. Unfortunately he didn't have anything but Peter Gabriel.

Scene 4:
The cacophonous clash of music caused the neighbors to complain. They were only into blues anyway.

Scene 5:
"Oh sorry, invited guests only."

Album link

Last Wishes

2008-01-13T03:55:00.000-06:00

I wish for Unni: his own restaurant;
I wish for Vaishali: a book deal;
I wish for Murli: his own auto-rickshaw gang;
I wish for Cafe Coffee Day: change;
I wish for Sri: a wife;
I wish for Abishek: courage (to shave the goatee);
I wish for Arun: a heart;
I wish for Preet: a promotion;
I wish for High Octane: wisdom to invest and survive our absence;
I wish for Coco Joe: his own hotel;
I wish for Agra: an airport;
I wish for Solomon: a friend;
I wish for Peter: peers;
I wish for Daphne: a parade in heaven;
I wish for India: a generation of youth willing to change the corrupt ways of old, and finally live out its father's famous quote.

Sugar-Free Sliders

2008-01-12T04:13:00.000-06:00

The news media has picked up what diabetics have known for years: the cheap sweetener, Sorbitol, causes diarrhea. And diarrhea causes severe (water-) weight loss. And weight loss causes national attention.

So reading between the lines in all these articles, you'll see a subtle hint that sugar-free products might see a rise in sales, sadly. And that's a bad idea.

Severe Weight Loss Can Be Caused By Chewing Gum, Doctors Report (Science Daily)

The Reality of the "People's Car"

2008-01-11T04:25:00.000-06:00

For those of you who probably haven't heard, Tata, a conglomerate that provides everything from tea to insurance to outsourcing to cars, introduced their anticipated "People's Car" on Thursday: the Tata Nano.

The annoucement comes with a guise of providing a status symbol to those who couldn't afford one before. But do they need it?

Traffic is abysmal already, and I've been told breathing the Bangalore air is equivalent to smoking a pack of cigarettes a day (a likely exaggeration, but the point is valid). On roads where the primary vehicle is the motorbike, the addition of cars means you can fit roughly half the number of commuters into the same unit of road-space.

And India has held the title for the most traffic deaths anywhere in the world for years, only escalated by the fact that there are few regulations on drivers' licenses.

I realize Americans have their own poor eviromental driving habits, and I don't mean to look over that. But there are far-worse contributing factors related to the infrastructure here that need to dealt with.

Anyway, read on to the Times article. It does a good job outlining my concerns on the issue.

Indians Hit the Road Amid Elephants (New York Times)

New photos

2008-01-04T08:28:00.000-06:00

I've uploaded pictures of Hyderabad and Mumbai.
As always, I find the map view most interesting. It's a nice overview of my treks, and a reminder that I really only covered about a third of the subcontinent.

If you're into Google Earth, you can view my photos there, too.

New Years in Bombay

2008-01-02T07:50:00.000-06:00

After touching down in one of the world's largest cities, most travelers might be a bit intimidated. Not me, though; I had 5½ months in India under my belt. I can handle anything.

So, in the first 10 minutes, I had Rs. 1000 stolen right in front of me by a taxi-pimp skilled in slight of hand. It was a bit of a sour start.

James and I arrived at our hostel, the Hotel Volga II, after 20 minutes of circling the block with our clueless cab driver. We didn't have good directions, and none of the people on the street knew how to find the place, so I felt a bit bad for the driver—or would have if his boss wasn't such a sleaze.

The Volga was a "delightful" little hallway of rooms with about 30 beds total sharing 2 westerns and a squatter. There were spouts and a bucket for showering. Thankfully, hot water wasn't much of an issue: even during winter the thermometer hits 90°F daily. We couldn't get into our room until a few hours, so we went downstairs and around the corner to Leopold Café, a former colonial pub now hugely popular with young international tourists, boasting a solid-but-typical Indian/Chinese/Continental menu. After a few hours of coffee, we walked the Colaba causeway for the first of many times. It's a ½-mile traffic jam of street vendors and "upper-class" shops like Nike, Reebok, Lacoste, etc. After picking up a city-guide from a small book stand, we planned out a long weekend.

Mumbai is expansive, and has no single entertainment district. Colaba was one, and seemed good enough for our 4-day stay. After all, it's no fun wearing yourself out seeing sights when all the sights are more or less the same you've seen for months. I'd made this mistake before and we wanted Mumbai to be relaxing.

That night, we visited the first listing in the guide under "Good Live Music": Not Just Jazz by the Bay. It ended up being an almost 5 hour visit, but the "just jazz"-playing band was talented and we had nowhere else to go.

The next day began with more Colaba: food and gift shopping. And that night, lazy but content, we decided to go back to "Jazz". To defend this choice, they had great food, and Sunday night was Karaoke night and described as "highly popular with college-aged locals." (Our trip to India sort of delayed and grayed the point where college-aged ended and working-aged began, so we were all for it.) The guide was right: we were the only Americans there, and the mean age was probably around 22. We were a bit nervous volunteering until we heard a few "regulars" first. Luckily, it was adequately amateur, and soon "Nathan from the U.S." was singing "To Be With You" by Mr. Big.

This was a worthy ice-breaker: we soon got into conversation (and duet agreements) with the group at the table next to us. They ended up being mostly Boston University students, and after a sub-par "A Whole New World," we followed them to an after-hours hookah joint. Fully aware that meeting locals can make a trip many times better, we eagerly accepted an invitation to join them for New Years Eve, plans TBA.

Day three on the Colaba Causeway was no different, except for lunch (Lebanese today), so we changed things up and wandered around the Hotel Taj Mahal Palace (rooms starting at Rs. 15k). It had a large lobby with elite shoppes vis-à-vis the causeway. After a mix of goggling and cynicism at the same, we sat down at the residents-only pool bar, underdressed and overconfident. Since we'd been washing with a bucket the last few days, we promptly compensated with 2 glasses of their finest champagne, explaining that we'd just checked out and therefore couldn't respond to your query for our room number.

We returned to our real room and made plans to join our new friends at one of their family's flats. It couldn't have been more of a fun, chill mini-party that night; we easily forgot we're supposedly "working adults".

There's no Bollywood version of Dick Clark, but the neighbors' fireworks kept us on time for the countdown. Around four, we actually attempted to return to "Jazz", who's party had been unfortunately shut down by the cops. The staff, now quite familiar with my presence, we quite apologetic.

James and I returned to the Volga around 7 AM and crashed until checkout. Now having spent our second major holiday in a week with surrogate friends and family, I can almost say I'm glad I had to stay.

Christmas in Hyderabad

2008-01-02T07:16:00.000-06:00

Being away from family on Christmas was going to be a first for my coworker James and I, so we decided to do something to take our minds off it. Options included stuffing our faces with all the packaged American food we could find, or spending it with some other family who might be celebrating.

Christians in India can be easy to spot. First, they have "good christian names", such as biblical characters or sometimes even outrageous ones like "Immaculate". Second, they tend to have better-than-average English skills, and third, they are very vocal in using these skills when meeting Americans. Solomon is a guard in our hostel building, and meets all of these criteria. So, after a few of his initiated lobby-conversations, we received a Christmas invite.

Our initial commitment was attending a Christmas program and having dinner with his family on the evening of the 24th.

We met him at the Lingampally bus station and, as we feared, he was on a two-wheeler. It turned out that the Christmas program was rescheduled to the night earlier, so we set off for his house: 3 men on a two-seater bike.

We entered into a small sitting room cum kitchen and were offered some spiced beef. This was followed by more meat, rice, chapati, and beer. It confused us, because it seemed unlikely this was just the appetizer. Apparently "dinner with family" meant "serve you and watch you eat." We had met his two daughters (and as is customary, told which courses they'd completed), but they and his wife retreated to the back room. While this reduced the chance of awkward marriage discussion, it robbed us of the real reason we agreed to come: to spend Christmas with a family.

Near the end of the meal, Solomon asked if we'd come again the next day. Technically our only plan was "something involving oreos," so we agreed on the condition that tomorrow the whole family would eat together.

Christmas morning we awoke late and headed off to meet Solomon and his family at their church. Turns out, a two-hour church service in a language you don't know can be pretty awful. But, it eventually came to an end, and we found ourselves back in the cement-block house. After short Christmas greetings, "Uncle Nathan and Uncle James" were sat and fed in private. Our protests were futile, or more likely misunderstood. Plus, Solomon seemed to have big plans on his mind:

"Would you like some scotch?"
"Um, okay, sure.."
"Okay. My son will get some."
(wait, from the store? you offered it without having it?)

He poured three drinks and more spiced meats were brought (this time goat and chicken). Frustrated that this was going to be a repeat of Christmas Eve, James & I sipped slowly as we waited for an opportunity to excuse ourselves. Solomon was less reserved.

Now, I don't mean to portray him as a drunk, because he wasn't. After one glass, he began to be very vocally self-conscious about it, and stated probably 5 times that he doesn't so this often. This was verified, as the effects could be seen quickly. He was freely speaking on anything and everything while James and I sat silently uncomfortable. First, it was how he was going to become a preacher, then how his father was a big drinker, then how I was too skinny (and subsequently force-fed the chicken heart), until it reached the breaking point where he described how many times per week his wife will "have him". James and I choked down the rest of our biryani and told Solomon we were calling a cab.

"So, you'll stay two more hours, then?"
"No,"
"One more hour, then go to my sister's house?"
"No..."

About an hour later (and after meeting his sister), we made it back to campus and forced down some candy bars as we watched Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer and The Year Without a Santa Claus.

In the end, it wasn't really Christmas, but an unforgettable day nonetheless.

Best Music of 2007

2007-12-28T06:49:00.000-06:00

The best albums of 2007, per nate, can be found below. I always have the hardest time picking the order, but I'm confident in the group as a whole. If you think James Blunt should be on this list, go soak your head. If you have any other opinon, leave a comment!

Albums

Stars "In Our Bedroom After the War"
I was consistently impressed with this album from start to finish. It's well-made canadian indie-pop.
The Night Starts Here, Midnight Coward

Rosie Thomas "These Friends of Mine"
In a year without a Sufjan album, one has to follow his producing credits. "Friends" is one.
Rosie's amazing (singing) voice compliments the sparse instrumentation and homemade-style recording in a beautiful and short 30-minute sequence of lullabyes. As an added bonus, Mr. Stevens lends his vocals to a few of the tracks.
Much Farther to Go, Kite Song

The New Amsterdams "At the Foot of My Rival"
Really good west-coast rock that caught me by surprise. I spent many an afternoon working while playing this one through.
Fountain of Youth, Wait

Tegan and Sara "The Con"
More praise for Canada. This record has so much angst, yet is unbelievably catchy at the same time. Of course, much of this can be attributed to the production by Death Cab's Chris Walla... can't wait for their new album next May.
The Con, Call it Off

Will Stratton "What The Night Said"
His first full-length album sounds nothing like a first album should. The songs are varied and mature, and the instrumentation diverse. A second should be released early next year, and I'd expect it to make some waves.
Sunol, I'd Hate To Leave You

Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová "The Swell Season"/"Once: Music from the Motion Picture"/The Frames "The Cost"
So I suppose I could have selected one of three albums for this spot. It started in January with "The Swell Season", a low-key collaboration between Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. Glen Hansard then took the highlights of that record back to his band, The Frames, and released them on "The Cost". Then, Hansard was asked to do the soundtrack for "Once", and then after some casting changes ended up starring with Marketa Irglova.
Falling Slowly, When Your Mind's Made Up (both on all 3 records)

Spoon "Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga"
So Spoon again doesn't disappoint here, this time around featuring horns on a few tracks. Suprisingly, the signature minimalist feel is still there; Spoon defines and remains king of their own style.
The Underdog, The Ghost of You Lingers

Jens Lekman "Night Falls Over Kortedala"
Pop that's not afraid to be different, much like Beirut's debut last year. Swed Jens' Lekman has some hilarious sardonic and blunt lyrics, like, "I'm leaving you because I don't love you."
Kanske Ar Jag Kar i Dig, A Postcard to Nina

Rilo Kiley "Under The Blacklight"
The major-label debut didn't sit well with hardcore Rilo Kiley fans, but I thought it was decent enough. Of course, you could give me a recording of Jenny Lewis singing "MMMBop" and I'd still rank it in my top 10.
Breakin' Up, Silver Lining

Feist "The Reminder"
Well-respected Leslie Feist further solidifed her position as the "Norah Jones of indie rock" with this catchy record. "1234" became hugely popular after being used in an iPod ad, but there are many more worthy tracks on this album, too.
I Feel it All, The Limit to Your Love

Josh Ritter "The Historical Conquests Of..."
I saw Josh Ritter do a small acoustic show earlier this year, and he mentioned his label (V2) had closed its doors the week before and he wasn't sure what was next. Thankfully, he didn't take long to put this out. "Conquests" is much more exciting than last year's "The Animal Years", mostly due to the addition of some unruly, energetic piano-playing. It's a welcome change.
Rumors, The Last Temptation of Adam

Iron & Wine "The Shepherd's dog"
Meet a reinvented Sam Beam. After the quiet "Our Endless Numbered Days" in 2004, he went all-out country folk-rock with the "Woman King EP", which I wasn't too big on. His Calexico project sounded like, well, Calexico. "Shepherd's dog" manages to incorporate a larger, rock sound without losing all the sweetness of his earlier material. It's not just a good compromise: it's a beautiful new direction.Wolves (Song Of The Shepherd's Dog), Boy With A Coin

Bloc Party "A Weekend In the City"
Pretty much everybody's favorite British alt-rock group gave us a release worthy of their crown. Even better is the re-release version with the new single "Flux".
I Still Remember, Sunday

Peter, Bjorn & John "Writer's Block"
After a very popular 2006 release in Europe, there was a lot of momentum by the time this arrived in the U.S. in January. "Young Folks" was a huge hit come summer to the point of being overplayed, a la Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy" last year, but it's a great song, so I can't complain.
Young Folks, Let's Call it Off (Single Mix)

Beirut "The Flying Club Cup"
So I ended up falling more in love with last year's "Gulak Orkestar" after reviewing it and commenting only on its "novelty appeal". Flying Club Cup is a bit less exciting, but Zak Condon definitely wins points for doing something different. If you're not ready or willing to be entirely sold on Beirut's pseudo-19th-century stylings, the "Lon Gisland EP", released early this year, would be a great place to start.
Nantes, Forks and Knives (La Fête)

Arcade Fire "Neon Bible"
This album was highly anticipated by critics, and for a good reason. 2004's "Funeral" was an awesome debut. The sequel lives up to most of the hype, but it never really became a favorite for me.
Ocean of Noise, Keep the Car Running

Au Revoir Simone "The Bird of Music"
This female trio made some small waves while touring with Peter Bjorn & John last spring. Overall, not that strong of an album, but there are some real gems here, too.
Sad Song, Dark Halls

Modest Mouse "We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank"
I don't have too much to say here. It's a decent and increasingly mainstream (no complaints) Modest Mouse record.
Missed the Boat, Parting of the Sensory

Mika "Life in Cartoon Motion"
British super-pop that is often spot-on Freddie Mercury, even to the point of exuberantly praising "big girls".
Grace Kelly, Love Today

Patrick Park "Everyone's In Everyone"
Some of the best acoustic folk-rock I've heard in a while, but not quite as good as his first album, "Loneliness Knows My Name".
Everyone's In Everyone, Stay With Me Tomorrow

Ben Lee "Ripe"
Very catchy Pop-Rock, as expected from this Aussie. The duet "Birds and Bees" with Mandy Moore is killer.
Birds and Bees, Love Me Like The World Is Ending

The New Pornographers "Challengers"
Not that impressed, but still has that NP charm. A lot of reviews praised this record for its "complex layers". That's just a nice way of saying most of these songs are lethargic. Can't argue with Neko Case's voice though, ever.
Myriad Harbour, Go Places

Ryan Adams "Easy Tiger"
Ryan Adams settled down and made an average record. But, an average Ryan Adams record is still a great record.
Oh My God, Whatever, Etc., Pearls on a String

Young Love "Too Young to Fight It"
I've heard him described as "a mix between Justin Timberlake and Bloc Party". Good beats, lotta production, but still a little edgy.
Closer to You, Take it or Leave it

The Apples in Stereo "New Magnetic Wonder"
Toned-down experimental rock that can even be catchy at times.
Sunndal Song, Same Old Drag

And More

M.I.A. "Kala"
So Hip-Hop's not really my bag, but I can really get into this record for some reason. That reason is probably because it's awesome.
Boyz, Come Around (feat. Timbaland)

Damien Rice "Live at Fingerprints: Warts and All" & "Live at the Union Chapel"
With the Lisa Hannigan collaborative years officially ended, and having seen Damien perform twice without her, these live releases have kept me happy.

Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds "Live at Radio City"
11 years after their first live release "Live at Luther College" was recorded, it's nice to have great-quality acoustic versions of Dave Matthews Band songs recorded since then.

Flight of the Conchords "The Distant Future - EP"
Who can argue these guys? They made fresh humor on an acoustic guitar in a world where most acoustic guitar humor couldn't be more stale. Looking forward to Season 2 and a full-length record.

Elliott Smith "New Moon"
Some pretty low-fi tracks were dug up for this postumous release. Most aren't stand-out, but Whatever (Folk Song In C) and Seen How Things Are Hard are pretty good.

Jars of Clay "Christmas Songs"
It's worth celebrating Jars of Clay's switch to indie label Nettwerk, and no better way to do so then a slightly-quirky christmas album. However, at some points they probably should be reminded that they're not Sufjan.

"Across The Universe (Music From the Motion Picture)"
Who doesn't love Beatles' covers? This soundtrack, coming from a musical-movie, is more cohesive than the "I am Sam" soundtrack. I could do without Bono, but that's a universal concept not just limited to this album.

India, Part 5

2007-12-26T21:37:00.000-06:00

India, Part 5: Voices (Google Video)

I wasn't going to make a 5th installment before releasing the Movie, but as it became evident that I wouldn't be using a lot of this great interview footage, I knew I had to compile it all into a separate sequence. The result is something without the broad appeal that I would show to my friends and relatives, but instead it is more of a Christmas gift to my Infoscions: India, from our perspective.

Unfortunately my connection in Hyderabad has 'moral filters': YouTube and Facebook video uploading is blocked. I'll post it there upon my return.

Expect the final movie mid-January.

Frequently Asked Questions

2007-12-21T13:46:00.000-06:00

1. How do I connect to the Network?
Connect your Laptop to the network jack on your computer using a RJ-45 cable from the cubicle will exactly fit to the network socket on your laptop.

Oh, Inglish.

Hyderalright

2007-12-20T11:04:00.000-06:00

Five months is special: it is the last anniversary I will have. At the sixth, it will be over.

I'm settled into Hyderabad now, after arriving two weeks ago. It is the birthplace of Biryani, and I've spent more than half my lunches wiping the sweat off my face in gratitude. It's also much bigger than Mysore (and Bangalore as well). This actually doesn't mean too much more than a greater selection of meat dishes at the restaurants, and that they're served at higher Gandhi's per ounce.

I will be staying until around the 17th of January. I've lost the will to complain about the fact that the majority of my batch-mates will be home for Christmas... It really doesn't matter now that I am so near to tangible proof that I won't have to live here forever. If things go as planned, I'll be spending Christmas eve with the family of one of the guards here on campus. That'll be unique.

After some pulling of teeth, it looks like my boss will allow me two days leave during these minimally-important holidays. It's that or call in sick: I have a plane ticket to Mumbai (Bombay), a reservation at a hostel, and a train ticket back to Hyderabad, all happening between the 29th of December and the 2nd of January. It's not two weeks in Thailand, but at least I'm trading my short end of the stick for something, right? I really did want to see Bombay before I leave.

But not the Taj. It's almost better to have been here so long and not seen it. After all, I've experienced the "real India": IT workers vacating their desks to cheer on an afternoon interdepartmental cricket match. But we're too busy for me to take leave, of course.

India, On Film

2007-12-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

I came to a point of reflection at this point in my travels, prompted by two films: The Darjeeling Limited and Outsourced. Briefly, my thoughts.

I heard a lot of bad reviews before finally seeing Darjeeling, and without high expectations, I couldn't help but like it. It was a good Wes Anderson movie. I enjoyed it more than Life Aquatic, but I thought the family dynamics were better presented in Royal Tenenbaums. I didn't laugh nearly as much as I had while watching Rushmore, but I smiled more throughout.

As for Outsourced, I would have found it just awful had I watched it a year ago. The story isn't engaging and the characters were pretty shallow. But as an American who's worked in India, it's so completely relatable. So much, in fact, that the writer must have lived the experience himself. It is spot-on with the cultural nuances of not just Indians, but displaced Americans, too.

After watching both movies, I realized very strongly that I really enjoy India on film; that is, I enjoy looking at India and thinking about India. Film makes me realize everything I love experiencing here. The busy streets, the exotic and iconic architecture, the humorous interactions with auto-rickshaw drivers: living in this country often feels like a film.

(Of course, I've left out that the professional culture can be often insufferable. But I'm not going to focus on that.)

On Friday, I'm moving to Hyderabad. Of all the places I could have gone, it was probably second-to-last on my list. But it does give me the opportunity to become a tourist once again. The feeling of an observer, an outsider, a visitor; it would seem undesirable, but I'm considering it invaluable. It allows me the same mindset of everyone back home who couldn't understand why I'd be anxious to leave. Cultural annoyances, needless processes, absent comforts: these are all easily forgiven by the short-term traveler. It makes it easier to laugh. It renews the curiosity. Like any rising conflict in a movie, it has a resolution. Mine is hopefully only 6 weeks away.

An End to the Free Ride on Trains in Los Angeles

2007-12-03T01:43:00.000-06:00

I was one of the free-loading 5% on occasion. Not every occasion, though. I'm sort of amazed at the negative mood of the article; I think it's pretty amazing that 95% of people were honest.

An End to the Free Ride on Trains in Los Angeles (New York Times)

The Fountainhead

2007-11-26T10:17:00.000-06:00

I just finished ~~reading~~ skimming The Fountainhead, and though way too wordy, I agree with Ayn Rand on a few things.

For example, there are first-handers and second-handers; creators and parasites.

Being Roark would take courage. His extremes are unmatchable... but as I leave my own humble projects behind, I've been left thinking about a few occasions when I wouldn't have minded 'dynamiting' a webserver or two.

Thanksgiving Message

2007-11-21T10:50:00.000-06:00

(India) Part Four

2007-11-11T12:10:00.000-06:00

Youthful visits to both Singapore and Goa.

Halloween

2007-11-07T11:21:00.000-06:00

Escape!

2007-11-07T10:34:00.000-06:00

Leaving India was beginning to sound unfathomable. Even though I knew I had booked the plane ticket, I had this sick feeling that I couldn't make it actually happen.

But then I boarded a plane—and stepped into a different world.

I knew at first something was different when I went to the foreign exchange counter: it took me 30 seconds to do in Singapore what took my friends 15 minutes to do in Bangalore. The key was no paper, actually, no forms at all.

Our next step was to find our hotel, so we approached a counter & asked. The response was helpful, truthful, and understandable; none of which I'd grown to expect over the last 3 months.

Next was the streets: paved. Not a speck of trash. Compare this to regularly seeing public urination... was I in heaven?
It's not just comparative cleanliness. I'd be as-shocked coming from the U.S. You could eat off the floor of the subway stations (although food is prohibited); you could deliver a child in the bathrooms.

And it's efficient. The trains were fast and the stations well-placed. People respected the queue and didn't push to get ahead. As many microprocessors are manufactured in the city, everything is electronic and RF-ID is used whenever possible. Food is delivered in restaurants with impeccable timing. Fast food is in your hands before you can finish paying.

And it's beautifully modern. Helvetica was used quite liberally (here I am hugging the 'S' in Sentosa).
With 4.6 million people, it should be a crowded place. However, Bangalore feels 10 times more crowded and it only has 5 million. Efficiency goes a long way.

So now I'm back. It was hard to come back. There was no "end of vacation" relief. Just a familiar smell.

Picasa Web Albums: India

How I Got a New Cat

2007-10-28T02:38:00.000-05:00

This is the story of how I installed Leopard.
To begin, India doesn't have any Apple stores, and their few resellers are still selling products that were replaced a year ago, so I faced the fact that this story would begin with 80 hours of continuous downloading.
I awoke suddenly at 5:30 AM this morning, and instead of going back to sleep, I checked my computer. Finished! I put on some coffee and got started.

As I stared at 66 100 MB files, I realized I didn't know what to do with them. There was no instruction manual. I panicked... the first of many.
An hour later, I found the solution in a little-known program Split & Concat. This process took another hour to complete.
Having began the day with caffeine, I couldn't nap.. so I read the first few chapters of The Fountainhead. That Roark seems like a cool guy. I bet he would've used a mac, too.
I was then faced with a very large disk image (6.66 GB to be exact, and ominous) that I soon realized was meant for a dual-layer dvd. If I'm going to find one of those in Mysore it'll be at FabCity. I call a familiar auto-rickshaw driver.

"Hello, Murhli? This is Nathan."
"Yes, hello?"
"Are you for hire from my campus?"
"Yes I am already coming."
"Someone else hired you from here?"
"Yes, yes."
"Okay, that's fine, sorry to bother you. I'm not with them, goodbye."
"Yes, goodbye."

I soon realize I don't have a dual-layer burner anyway, so I decided to try another approach: delete unnecessary files from the image like printer drivers and international languages. After a long, painful process I had a single-layer disc burned and ready.
I boot from the CD, which takes 30 minutes to load up into the installer. I click through a few menus and it starts to verify the installer CD.
"Install failed: crucial files are missing on the installer disc."
Okay so this approach isn't going to work. I could try an external hard drive, but I didn't bring mine to India. I was borrowing one from my generous friend to backup my data... but using it as an install disk would mean repartitioning it and erasing all current data. He's fine with that, though, and I'm about to get started when my phone rings:

"Hello?"
"Hello. Murhli! I am at the gate."
"Oh, hello, you must be waiting for someone else."
"Yes, okay."
"I'll call them."
"Yes. goodbye."
So I call one of my coworkers who usually uses Murhli as a driver.
"Hey, are you going into town?"
"No, but Murhli just called me. Did you hire him?"
"No. Well, maybe. I thought he said he was coming for someone else."
"Hmm well it's not me. I think he's here for you."
"ah, great. well, I've gotta figure this out."
I put on some clothes and walk up to the gate, sign out, then call Murhli.
"Hello, Murhli? Are you at the gate"
"Yes, 5 minutes."

Okay, my plan is to just give him 100 rupees and send him on his way with an apology. I check my wallet, however, and I only have Rs 500 bills. 15 minutes later, Murhli arrives, and I just decide to let him drive me to FabCity.
Frustrated, I'm inside for 5 minutes. They didn't have dual-layer dvds, but I couldn't use them anyway... so I buy a pack of diet coke and get back in the auto-rickshaw and head back to campus.
Having wasted a copious amount of time, I guiltily reformat my friend's hard-drive and create a mac partition. I'm about to start the install, but I realize I have to be in the education center in 5 minutes to integrate my java project with my group.
I return 2 hours later remembering I have to re-backup all my data again, only this time my laptop won't recognize the hard-drive. So I attempt to reformat it again, but i get a message saying there's an I/O error. I've gotta stop messing around with this thing before I break it. I give it back to H.P. (luckily it works for him) and give up for the time being.

Four days later I'm in Singapore. Singapore has Apple Premium Resellers: Singapore has Leopard. I have Leopard.

Distractions

2007-10-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

I came across a modern-english translation of "A London Provisioner's Chronicle". It's a collection of endless daily delineations of the city through the eyes of this ordinary citizen, Henry Machyn. I'm not sure why I found it all that interesting, but it might have to do with recent escapist tendencies.
I thought I'd share the historical happenings of London, 450 years ago this week:

The twenty-first day of October died my lady [Mary Fitzallen], the Countess of Arundel, at Bath Place in St. Clement's parish without Temple Bar.
The twenty-sixth day of October was a goodly hearse set up in St. Clement's parish without Temple Bar of five principals and with eight banderoles and a ten dozen pencels and four great escutcheons of arms at the four corners.
The twenty-seventh day of October my lady was brought to the church with the bishop of London and Paul's choir and the masters, the clerks of London. And then came the corpse with five banners of arms borne. Then came four heralds in their coats of arms and bore four banners of images at the four corners. And then came the chief mourners, my Lady Worcester and my Lady Lumley and my Lord North and Sir Anthony Sellinger.
Then came an hundred mourners of men, and after, as many ladies and gentlewomen, all in black, besides a great many poor women in black and rails and twenty-four poor men in black bearing of torchlights and many of her servants in black coats bearing of torches.
The twenty-eighth day of October was the Mass of Requiem sung and a goodly sermon. And after Mass, Her Grace was buried and all her head officers with white staffs in their hands and all the heralds waiting about her in their coats of arms. And my lord abbot of Westminster preached there a goodly sermon and my Lord of London sang the Mass. The bishop of … sang the Mass of the … and there was a … Mass said. And after, to my lord's place to dinner, for there was a great dinner.

Half-way.

2007-10-20T13:52:00.000-05:00

On July 9th, 2007, I wrote the following:

Working for an Indian company will be a wonderful challenge. The amount of unknowns that remain, two weeks before I begin my first career, is staggering. Stubbornly desiring adventure is all I can do to keep from going crazy during preparation.

And now this "wonderful challenge" is halfway done. To be honest, the wonderful is often overshadowed by the challenge. The amount of unknowns not only remain, they have increased. And my stubborn desires for the motherland and its freedoms are all I can do to keep from going crazy during the adventure.

More than the bureaucracy, the chaos, or the lack of sanitation, I've been most frightened by my own humanity I've come to realize these last three months.

I still cannot believe the anger and desperation which brews inside of me whenever I'm given only the same rights and privileges offered to an Indian entry-level employee, even though it is usually the exception to the norm.
Then, of course, I have to deal with guilt on top of the obvious inconvenience of being a part of this country. Is it wrong to desire those freedoms and rights which I took for granted just three months ago?

But what of all the wonderful culture I should experience? I don't have an answer to that question. I can't claim that I've "seen it all" because of the limited duration. I can claim that I've seen enough to make an educated decision between two countries: Which one would I rather be a citizen of? Experiencing culture is for tourists: it's an objective look at only the best of a society. Three months has been more than enough time to be a tourist.

On the surface, I sound spoiled. At least, I know if I had read my current thoughts three months ago, I'd say I was spoiled. But I've seen some great hypocrisies in the Nate of three months ago: I found it much easier to speak nobly against inequality when I was enjoying its benefits. Here, thinking of myself becomes all-consuming.

And to mis-quote Gandhi, "We need to be the change we wish to see in the world." Well the changes I wish to see here now are already visible in the many forms of western media I now illegally download. If I could be more american, I would.
If moving to India was some virtuous sacrifice, I imagine I might feel different: I'm not here on a mission for charitable or spiritual ends. If I was, all discomfort would likely be less of a nuisance. Being stripped of my freedoms accomplishes nothing, however, but bolster the books of a $4 billion company built on the ability to pay people less for providing a similar effort.
Or, I'm just making excuses for my selfishness.

In an attempt to conclude, this wasn't a difficult post to write. It was a difficult post to publish. And I can't expect the guests of this pity-party to understand: you'd just have to be here... for three months.

Last May I pondered this dilemma:

I cannot answer why we were chosen for this prodigious existence, while the ordinary (half the world) lives on less than two frosty's a day.

But I've given up looking for that answer. For even if I could find it, I wouldn't trade my blue passport for the world.

EDIT (Oct. 24, 2007): Fixed spelling of "Gandhi"

Lunch at, let's say, Mysore

2007-10-13T10:26:00.000-05:00

It's backdated, but I still make these.

Another Side of Mysore

2007-10-06T08:27:00.000-05:00

Today was completely different.
Today, instead of getting up and lounging by the pool, I shadowed a Saint as she did her daily routine.

The home of the destitute

A single corridor extended from a roomy foyer with a television. Upon the Saint's entrance, the tenants transferred their attention from the program to a repeat-after-me prayer in Kannada. Caught off guard, my two fellow trainees and I quickly clasped our hands together. A touch to the forehead and blessing was administered to the more vigilant at the prayer mimicry, and one received a short english lesson.

"Jesus, I love you!" the Saint enunciated slowly.
"Jesus, eywe ou," the student offered.

It is a home for somewhere between 25-40 of the dying and the forgotten, run by 4 Sisters of some German-originated Order. The Saint continued her blessing of song and touch down the corridor as I watched faces brighten. The old, the polio-deformed, the burned, the disfigured, the aids victims. The Saint said later their time is very short in that corridor.
Peter should be an exception. At the age of 18, he became paralyzed after falling from a construction site. 3 years later, he lays on a donated waterbed watching the high turnover around him. The Saint has raised money for him to live elsewhere, but in this polychronistic culture, that might not be soon.

The nicer home of the old

Compared to the first location, the Little Sisters of the Poor home for the elderly was a resort. The 25 nuns and 25 workers kept the place spotless. The tenants were happy and well-fed. International funding plays an influence.

The home of the guilty until proven innocent

This was the hardest part of my day.
The Saint had received prior written permission to bring up to six charity workers from one of the wardens she has become friends with. Whether these charity workers were defined as being Americans, I don't know, but the Saint entered and we had to wait at the gate for 10 minutes before being allowed to enter, sans cellphones and cameras. The nervousness about our visit was understood soon after entering. After all, they wouldn't want anyone blogging to the world about their prison conditions.
We were accompanied by the female warden who signed our permission to enter. The prison contains just over 1000 inmates; she led us to the female hold, containing about 80 women and children.

Now, an aside.
The "Dowry Death Law" was enacted in the 1980s to prevent the horrible trend of the husband's family harassing the new bride for a greater dowry. When these demands aren't met, there are many cases of the bride being burned alive, allowing for another marriage and another dowry. The law states if a bride dies within the first 7 years of marriage due to the in-laws, the husband's family is to be imprisoned for minimum 7 years, maximum life. The Saint told us in many cases of natural death the bride's family has made this accusation and therefore there are many families in the prisons. Sadly, by these accounts, this replaced one tragic event with another.
Getting a trial in India can take around 5 years.
Those with life sentences or scheduled for the death penalty wear white tunics or saris.

We entered a courtyard of high, white cement walls. The ground was mostly the same material, with some shrub-ish trees interspersed. On the paved surface were sticks of incense: the warden responded that the workers get Rs. 10 for every 1000 sticks they make. I worked it out later that labor costs are just less than 0.9% of the selling cost of government incense.

There were four cells with iron-bar doors facing the courtyard, each containing around 20 inmates. Many of the women were in white. The warden opened the first cell, and we entered after the Saint. The floor space was just enough for each resident to lay a single bed mat. I swallowed hard, hardly comprehending the reality that these women faced. It didn't matter if they deserved their sentence, though I'm sure most did not. Time just stopped and I just stared.
The Saint asked everyone to sit, and then she began to sing, "God's love is wonderful..." We knew the words by now, and singing along would have been a supportive and ideal choice. A large portion of the inmates knew the song, too. I opened my mouth and joined in, however after a few unintentionally vibratic pitches I was unable to continue.
After singing, we passed out small biscuit packages the Saint had purchased. I gave two to a woman holding a child.

The home of the innocent

The final stop was the orphanage at St. Philomena's church. The Saint pulled out a tin of hard candy and handed it to me. I hoped this would make the kids like me, but it turned out the innocent needed no such bribe. This was home to 47 young boys who happily sang along to the Saint's songs, like the disfigured, elderly, and incarcerated before them. Other than the giddy, sugar-driven screams, there was something exciting about this place. Here was the less-fortunately born receiving food, shelter, and schooling; here was hope.

In the Times

2007-09-26T22:13:00.000-05:00

"Outsourcing Works, So India is Exporting Jobs"
-- New York Times, 25 September 2007

Two of my coworkers are quoted in this recent article detailing the sometimes-hard-to-explain "why I'm here". The reporter was correct about the turning-down of other offers, but the Google reference was a misquote.

If you're wondering where I am in this article, I'm one of the "novices" with "no software knowledge" by which my company "saves money". Oh, journalism.

India, Part Three

2007-09-25T13:53:00.001-05:00

Though it's been finished for a couple weeks, I didn't want to release it too soon after Part Two.

The Kerala Backwaters Tour

2007-09-21T07:40:00.000-05:00

I only recently transcribed the following back-dated post from my moleskine. (does that sound pretentious? sorry)

To start, an 11-hour cab ride is no picnic, even if we did pack a loaf of bread. Averaging just over 20 mph due to potholes, all I could think was "This place better be heaven."

And it was. (End Suspense)

We arrived in the town of Alappuzzha at a boat launch called "Finishing Point" excited to start. It was 8 AM and we weren't scheduled to sail until 11, so we searched for some breakfast.
Alappuzzha reminded me of a lakeside cottage community in Michigan: narrow, maze-like roads lined with high shrubbery and fences dividing one private life from another.
We pulled into the gate of a very cool villa of a hotel. There was a small patio, a wooden rope swing, and the main cottage where a few random guests could be seen sleeping through open doors and windows. We noticed a few young Europeans staying there who looked like real world-traveler types. You'd have to be, I guess, because we soon found out they only had a squatter toilet. We ate, drank coffee, and played a few hands of cards before heading to the boat.

A long, beautifully-crafted wood and canvas structure was ready for boarding. Our captain & cook excitedly introduced themselves, then fired up the motor. The boat was 103 feet long, with a kitchen in the back followed by 3 bedrooms with flush (but where?) toilets, and then a large common area. There is a full pirate-style steering wheel in the front.
Our first meal was served quickly: fried, fresh fish ("sea fish" the cook responded to our query) with local rice (fields line the canals) and vegetable curries. It was very tasty, and a lot less spicy than the dishes of Karnataka. Sliced, sweet-and-tart pineapple followed for dessert.

We spent the afternoon, beer in hand, in awe of the beauty of the scene: palm treed banks against blue skies.
There was a brief stop to buy Tody, a drink of fermented coconut milk. It tasted like a mix of peanut butter and grass, but not in a good way.
Dinner was chicken, potatoes, roti, curried veggies, and more local rice. After stopping for the night, a few of us decided a swim would be a good idea. I wasn't as scared as I should have been, but the captain said there weren't any alligators, and I had momentarily forgotten about the 10-foot sea snake I saw earlier in the day. The water was amazingly warm... later browsing Google Earth I realized it looked quite shallow and green... preferred by alligators?

It was poker then to bed for a warm but restful night. The next morning was a feast of masala dosa, omelets, and toast and a short ride back to the dock as we compiled one of the best memories India will offer.

See an overlay of our trip stops in google maps.

on why I'm becoming a pirate

2007-09-20T02:49:00.000-05:00

So The Office starts up again in 1 week, and my friends and I had planned on subscribing via iTunes and watching using my (now-obsolete) iPod's video-out cable. These plans unfolded when NBC decided not to renew its iTunes contract. NBC wouldn't waste too much time offering another online distribution channel, I was sure, and I was willing to try another method at the cost of my convenience.

However, when those alternate methods were announced (both Amazon Unbox and NBC's own technology) it was revealed they only run on the Windows operating system.

And that made my only remaining choice easy: I'll be using bittorrent this season.

NBC to Offer Downloads of Its Shows [New York Times]

The best thirst quencher

2007-09-18T11:39:00.000-05:00

on why I'm becoming libertarian

2007-09-14T07:15:00.000-05:00

that's my state! they love their mobiles here: i had a training instructor pause mid-sentence to answer his... twice.

Karnataka, India banning cellphones for kids under 16? [Engadget]

on an unrelated note, training instructors hold the official title of "Technical Evangelists". no joke.

Dress Code, Part Two

2007-09-12T04:32:00.000-05:00

Well if I can't sport my leather jacket, I can at least tie a "Hogwarts Four-in-Hand".

Or safely land Apollo 13.

Slash preach fire and brimstone.

Dress Code

2007-09-09T12:46:00.001-05:00

I understand that I can't show up looking like James Dean, but why can't my female coworkers show up looking like businesswomen? This "gentle reminder" actually offended a number of them.

Globes & Maps

2007-09-02T12:47:00.000-05:00

I've uploaded photos from the Kerala houseboat weekend and the earlier temple visits into Picasa. As an added bonus, I've added approximate latitude & longitude to each, as I slowly spread out across southern India. Both web and Google Earth links are below.

Photos: [Google Earth (KML) | Album Map]
Backwater Tour stops: [Google Earth (KML) | Google Maps]
Mysore road map image overlay: [Google Earth (KML)]

Briefly, Transformers was at the campus multiplex this weekend, and it made me a little homesick for Detroit.

India, Part Two: The Grind

2007-09-01T06:38:00.000-05:00

Well it's been a bit of an adventure experimenting in Final Cut Express after the disappointment which is iMovie '08. It took me twice the time it took to make Part One but I think it was worth it.

Briefly: Kerala was awesome. Wait for "India, Part Three".

Houseboat

2007-08-23T06:58:00.000-05:00

This weekend is turning out to be my most-anticipated yet.

In the backwaters for which the Indian state of Kerala is famous, I will be taking a houseboat (Kettuvallam) excursion.

The backwaters are a popular place for these luxury houseboat cruises, but are not exclusive to them. They are still commonly used for fishing and duck farming, as well as local transportation.

Lonely Planet claims it's one of the more expensive things to do in southern India, but worth every penny. This is, of course, relative: I'm paying USD $100 for my portion of the boat and a 3-day taxi (who will be driving 400 km each way). The boat price includes an on-board chef and all meals. I can hardly contain my excitement.

Sure, there's the risk of the drive, and dengue fever, but this will be the highlight of my first 5 weeks.

Employee Number One

2007-08-22T12:33:00.000-05:00

Today, I woke up determined to live each day beatific.

This began by reversing my decision to attend the 8:20 AM speech by the founder and CEO. I wasn't in the mood for what I assumed would be a corporate-ego session, but at the same time, I had never heard this man speak.

I was joined by 1000 other trainees, most of them Indian. This was fine, but it meant the message would less relevant than had it been a private US batch address. Despite the company praise, he actually had some great things to say: he focused on examples of choosing values over immediate success (which, he reminded us, led to eventual success).

He also took some tangents to criticize the bureaucracy and corruption in Indian government, both 20 years ago and today. This caught my attention: it made the red tape I've had to deal with seem like much less of a big deal (sort of). He even went as far to say, "In India, we have incorrectly labeled 'truthful' and 'transparent' as values… they are not values. They are no more than necessary traits to function in society; they should be givens!" Of course, it's not just India.

His prepared speech was followed by a Q&A involving programming unions, tax exemptions, and government land allocation. I had another glad-I-don't-live-here moments.

To my surprise, the US batch was then given an exclusive audience with the man himself. He started to talk about how we're important to the company, and how he feels personally responsible for our comfort as guests to his country, and asked us to be safe in town and follow the rules put in place.
My mouth dropped.
Is employee number 1 really addressing employees 90,000ish about our hot-button issue?

The room went silent.

And then he took questions. The first questioner went for the heart. "Why are we not allowed to take private, police-approved taxis, but instead have to ride large, easy-target buses?"

Pin drop.

And then employee number one agreed with trainee number ninety-thousand. He looked at the HR team and said, "Yes, that doesn't seem very logical, does it? Why can't they take taxis? Let's change this, and let's do it right away!"

The room erupted in applause.

The HR rep calmed the room with his protests, revealing information he had kept from us earlier. "The police commissioner had received reports of anti-social " (what does that mean?) " threats and required a guard present on buses."

Number one: "I understand, but it doesn't seem reasonable nor practical."

And we fell in love with employee number one.

And then we asked more burning questions:

"As one of many liberal arts majors, how do you see us adding value to your company?"
"The training is too difficult. Why?"
"Indian trainees have a tuition reimbursement program, but we do not. Can we have one?"

Finally, here was the one man who had the authority to answer all our questions, aging yet wiser than any employee I've met.
He left to a standing ovation.

And I left beatific.

What's New to Love

2007-08-17T07:03:00.000-05:00

Despite the dismal state of bureaucratic affairs in India, I'm happy to say I'm very attached to some new albums:

Tegan and Sara - The Con

Edgy yet poppy; angsty yet still makes me smile. Produced by Death Cab's Chris Walla.

Spoon - Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga

One of the best releases yet from the kings of minimalist rock.

Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds - Live at Radio City

Beautifully-recorded live concert from earlier this year just released... I'm curious to see/hear the blu-ray version!

Self-Pity

2007-08-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

So, I live in India: India, a country that boasts of its own culture and beauty. I’m still waiting to experience it.

For the first three weeks, I lived with restrictive moral rules on a company campus which is completely dry and lacks facilities for hanging out (especially co-ed). Our dress codes rival the Amish. We were allowed to leave campus by way of cabs and rickshaws with an 11:00 PM curfew on the weekdays, and a 12:00 PM curfew on the weekends. Campus is about 30 minutes out of town, so that has to be factored in.

Yesterday, the rules changed. The Americans cannot leave campus unless they are on an official company bus accompanied by a guard. Curfew has been shortened to 10 PM. Two busses will leave each night for 85 people. We have to travel in larger groups – a smaller group can’t go to one location at the times they want, like we used to be able to do.

My situation escalated from a nunnery to a prison. I’m locked in a place which looks nothing like India: it’s a clean, fake Disneyland scattered with copies of famous architecture built with horribly cheap construction values. I didn’t choose to come here for six months to live in a B-movie set.

Moreover, I didn’t choose to sit through 50 hours a week of indiscernible lectures and impossible homework assignments tailored to students coming from a completely different education system. There is something wrong when the majority of the Americans are failing their tests. After all, they hired us to be communicators, not programmers.

And our talent as Americans is that we will forcefully communicate until we’re red in the face to get our way. I’ve spent a total of 3 hours in the last two days in group-wide complaint sessions before the directors of HR and education. We’re not going to take oppression lying down, and by fighting it we’re gaining better job-training in the process.

India, Part One

2007-08-07T07:29:00.000-05:00

A mash-up of clips from my first 2 weeks in Mysore & Bangalore, made in iMovie '06 just 24 hours before iMovie '08 was announced... oh well.

And select photos are now up:

Mysore Rain

2007-08-01T04:59:00.001-05:00

View from my hostel room on campus. Note the guard tower in the corner.

Mysore Palace Lights Up!

2007-08-01T04:22:00.001-05:00

courtesy Kevin J. Smith

The Popular Culture

2007-08-01T03:40:00.000-05:00

I came across statistics for the India facebook network today, and saw some familiar trends.

When visiting Mysore city, the roaming vendors often sell small musical instruments like flutes and small fiddles. To our amazement, every single one of them advertises their wares by playing "My Heart Will Go On" from Titanic. Like in the US, it must have been a very popular and permeating movie release in its time, but it has apparently maintained its favor much longer here.

The music selections are slightly more unforgivable. I've experienced a bar playlist where Linkin Park appeared at least 3 times, greeted by a few groans from my companions and excited cheers from the locals. Metallica, Nirvana, and Creed were also played multiple times, and there was a Pink Floyd poster on the wall.

Needless to say, it doesn't suit my tastes. The only "Death Cab" here would be the actual taxis.

Playing my Fendar

2007-07-29T01:04:00.000-05:00

Video courtesy of my friend Rizwan - check out his blog, "Rizwan Meets India"

So yesterday during my excursions around Mysore city, I happened across a small music store recommended by an american from last year. Inside I chose a used-looking Fendar. At Rs. 2500, I probably payed too much, but I felt okay about supporting the shop.

Monsoon Season

2007-07-27T23:24:00.000-05:00

Paper. Work.

2007-07-25T06:40:00.000-05:00

Today, I fear my cultural sensitivity is at a breaking point. The many idiosyncrasies of this foreign corporate environment are on their way to making me mad.
The immense paperwork here makes filing taxes look like a library card application. And none of the forms are directly relevant: for instance, the 5 documents I filled out for my national pension will be void in 6 months time. I have given almost 50 signatures, 12 photographs, and 10 copies of my passport (including other foreign visas). 2 copies of my offer letter, which was of course created by this very company, had to be resubmitted back to them... and I was responsible for making the copies!
The highlight by far today was taking a reading comprehension and grammar test where the grammar of the questions themselves wouldn't pass at an 8th grade level.

I can't expect these extensive formalities to change themselves: this is just part of the experience. The only thing that can change is my numbness to detail. After all, in my small-rain-forest's-worth of forms mistakes are unavoidable... but by the time they're actually processed I'll probably be halfway across the world.

Spoiled

2007-07-24T23:39:00.000-05:00

If there were no windows on the cab, I would hardly know I was in Mysore, India last night.

First of all, the campus on which I live is immaculate: they cut the grass with scissors. My room is visited daily by a facilities worker who not only cleans every surface, makes my bed, and re-stocks my bottled water; he sorts my toiletries by size.

Stepping into a cab on the daily-swept paved streets of this campus, we traveled 20 minutes to a hotel restaurant and bar discovered by recommendation. Upon entering, we were seated in a restaurant where, to make my point quickly, the waiters put my napkin on my own lap.

After a full meal tasting better than anything I'd had since landing, many drinks, and a round-trip taxi ride, I was down $16 USD.

extra-value meal

2007-07-22T11:30:00.000-05:00

$1 USD can by you 40 kilograms of tomatoes in Mysore, India.

Almost left

2007-07-19T15:04:00.000-05:00

I am one hour away from the longest plane travel I have ever endured: I will step foot in India around 12:00 AM on Saturday, July 21. The adventure, however, has already begun. I am accompanied by 90 others, and asking each of them the same six questions (name, hometown, school, major, US posting location, and business unit) has turned the last 30 hours into some kind of frenzied speed-dating marathon.

But I'm loving every minute of it. It's been like summer camp on amphetamines.

And now, I've got a 9000-mile train ride to come down.

Gold in the Air of Summer

2007-07-17T11:27:00.000-05:00

With the help of the Kings of Convenience, this montage is the most accurate way I've found to describe what I'm feeling now... what it feels like to grow up.

The Next American-Indian

2007-07-08T14:33:00.000-05:00

It's only right to resume narration of my life story, 10 days prior to my move to India. India, the country. I've made this announcement to many at this point (I've known I was going since late April) and the first question is of course, "why?".

Why might one go live in India? I think what comes to many minds is "Missionary". I, however, have a job.

A job which I selected for the specific reason that it begins halfway around the world for 6-8 months. It wasn't my only option—it was actually the lowest-paying—but it was the one I hoped would delay the "real-world" as long as possible.

Working for an Indian company will be a wonderful challenge. The amount of unknowns that remain, two weeks before I begin my first career, is staggering. Stubbornly desiring adventure is all I can do to keep from going crazy during preparation.

And a long preparation it's been. I've been saying goodbyes for months, many times nulling them later with chance appearances. Since leaving my last job, I've had more time than I know what to do with... hence the monogrammed suitcase. And blog entry.

But I do promise to keep fairly updated as I begin the travels, after all, I've got a lot of requests to vicariously experience this country. There's something desirable about looking at the pictures without having take the vaccinations yourself.

Extraordinarily Ashamed

2007-05-03T23:42:00.000-05:00

I would describe myself as ordinarily extraordinary. My life is as-deserving of readers as any other's, yet that is why I write, and why you might be reading. That, or you're my Mom.

I'm extraordinarily smart, and I can prove this by showing you my $82,000 personalized, watermarked, 8.5"x11" piece of paper.

I'm extraordinarily rich, and I can prove this by the fact that I have the leisure time to construct this sentence.

I'm extraordinarily popular, and I can prove this with a website decorated in shades of blue stating I have hundreds of friends.

I'm extraordinarily beautiful, and I can prove this by showing you countless catalogues mailed to my address, begging me to wear their documented clothing.

I'm extraordinarily powerful, and I can prove this by the fact that these words will soon be accessible to billions of people to read.

And I am surrounded by many who are just as, and even more, extraordinary than I.
Yet in all my extraordinary being, I cannot answer why we were chosen for this prodigious existence, while the ordinary (half the world) lives on less than two frosty's a day.

The Elusive Supporting Performer

2007-04-25T11:40:00.000-05:00

from damienrice.com:

After much thought and discussion Damien has decided that his professional relationship with Lisa Hannigan has run its creative course. As a result Lisa will not be appearing at any of the upcoming live shows. Lisa is embarking on her own artistic endeavours and there are no plans for them to work together in the foreseeable future. ...

Great. This will be the second time I've shelled out cash for a Damien Rice ticket, only to be cheated out of the performance I really wanted to see: Lisa Hannigan. The back-story to this announcement remains to be heard, but I hope Mr. Rice understands the power Ms. Hannigan has over his fans.
One thing I've learned over the years with the Furniture is that you can't always assume the crowd always wants to hear you sing, even if you penned the words. Do what's best for the sound, not what's best for your ego.
All the best to Lisa Hannigan as she focuses on her solo career. Check out a clip from her performance on RTÉ Two TV's Other Voices. (Unfortunately, Real Player is required)

Dear Facebook, Thanks. Love, Nate.

2007-04-11T23:18:00.000-05:00

In honor of the unveiling of Facebook's new design today (the third major revision by my count), I'd like to share a couple of my favorite news feed moments that I remembered to screen-capture.

Lest he become bored:

The following stories were from the same individual, one right after the other. Maybe next time she won't be so quick to break the news to mom.

Customer Service

2007-03-27T19:40:00.000-05:00

[rings] hello?
Hi, I'd like to inquire about the status of my application.
Oh, well I don't think I can help you with that--I'm a new hire.
Okay, well can y--
Let me put you on hold.
...
Sir? The number you need to call is 1-800-xxx-xxxx.
I did call that number.
And they gave you my number?
No, that is your number.
Sir, I'm going to have to call you back.

Graduation Daze

2007-03-25T23:40:00.001-05:00

So it's happening: graduation. And as I impatiently wait for my future employment to be decided by frighteningly bureaucratic hiring practices, it creeps ever closer. I struggle to maximize my nostalgic experience: if I'm not debating life and love while experiencing both of them in some outdoor bar in the wee hours of the morning, then I'm obviously wasting my precious, dwindling time in college.

The reality remains that there is no completely escaping the weight of classes, work, and hygiene. But in those situations where escape isn't physically possible, there is music.

Graduation Daze

Still Fighting It ~ Ben Folds
Graduate ~ Third Eye Blind
No Such Thing ~ John Mayer
Like A Rolling Stone ~ Bob Dylan
Speeding Cars ~ Imogen Heap
On My Way ~ Ben Kweller
Brothers & Sisters ~ Coldplay
Good ~ Better Than Ezra
SoCo Amaretto Lime ~ Brand New
Don't Look Back in Anger ~ Oasis
Have You Forgotten ~ Red House Painters
End Of Our Days ~ Howie Day
Name ~ Goo Goo Dolls
Sons & Daughters ~ The Decemberists

Best Music of 2006

2006-12-24T09:01:00.001-06:00

The best albums of 2006, per nate, can be found below. It seemed like a tough year to me, and the #1 album wasn't all that clear of a victor. It's a much "lighter" list than years prior, with a lot more folk-y selections. But the "alt-punk" scene has become so diluted with mediocre that I was happy to find refuge in the simple and light.
If you think James Blunt should be on this list, go soak your head. If you have any other complaint, leave a comment.

Albums

The Weepies "Say I Am You"

There is a line between delicately simple and sickeningly sweet, but I found most of this record in the realm of the former. It isn't nearly as stimulating as its "best-of" predecessors, but there was something unexplainable that kept me playing it over and over again.

Riga Girls, World Spins Madly On

Electric President "Electric President"

I suppose I can still safely count this album as obscure, which might elevate my ego a bit. Of course, that ego can be easily popped by pointing out I first heard "Insomnia" on network television. Nevertheless, this album spoke great volumes to a boy counting down the months until his graduation, with lyrics that say, "There‚Äôs nothing new to discover, there‚Äôs nothing new to invent./There‚Äôs nothing new to think that hasn‚Äôt been thought of before." and songs titled "Some Crap About the Future".

Insomnia, Metal Fingers

Damien Rice "9"

Of course, you'd be hard-pressed to find anyone who didn't appreciate the genius of 2003's "O". "9" is a worthy follow-up, though stylistically not much different. I had the opportunity to see him perform this summer, regretfully without Lisa Hannigan, and was quite excited to hear the new songs. There is a great deal of "alt-folk" that has since borrowed from "O", but few could ever pull off what Damien does on "Rootless Tree": He sings the chorus of "F*** You, F*** You, F*** You..." but somehow maintains a beautiful balance of composure and emotion.

Rootless Tree, Coconut Skins

Sufjan Stevens "The Avalanche: Outtakes and Extras from the Illinois Album"

Ah yes, in just one year Sufjan Stevens has been illegally downloaded onto every college student's (and more) iPod. It is a little painful, but it's hard not to still be a fan. "Illinois" was my (and everyone else's) #1 pick last year, and I'm sure at that time no one expected a release of "outtakes and extras" that is as long and as-well-written as the album itself. The weakness here is with the overall feel and flow of the album... it really doesn't exist. But then again, I suppose it's the proverbial bargain bin and I shouldn't complain.

No Man's Land, Pittsfield

Joshua Radin "We Were Here"

I received this album with much expectation after last year's EP. Despite re-using most of those songs, it's a moody and beautiful disc.

Only You, Winter

The Decemberists "The Crane Wife"

Colin Meloy does the best folk work of anyone on this list with the retelling of the Japanese tale of the farmer who finds and injured crane, restores it to health, and marries it, only to neglect it and watch it die. (I hope I didn't spoil that ending for anyone) The album was produced by Death Cab's Chris Walla, and he leaves a distinctive mark.

The Crane Wife 1 & 2, Sons & Daughters

Christine Fellows "Paper Anniversary"

Another simple and sweet folk record, this time by a quirky Canadian. I must have listened to "Souvenirs" 18 times in a row during a road trip.

Souvenirs, Departures/Arrivals

Jenny Lewis with The Watson Twins "Rabbit Fur Coat"

Exceptional storytelling and gorgeous vocals. One of the best concerts I saw this year, though I missed the first half.

You Are What You Love, The Charging Sky

Sleeping at Last "Keep No Score"

Some of the strongest string arrangements on this list. This band delivers amazing lyrics of hope.

Needle and Thread, Umbrellas

Alexi Murdoch "Time without Consequence"

More alt-folk, this time just further down the list.

All My Days, Blue Mind

Josh Ritter "The Animal Years"

Ritter takes himself a bit more seriously than the time of "Golden Age of Radio", and doesn't do too bad here. "Thin Blue Flame" borders on epic.

Wolves, Thin Blue Flame

Regina Spektor "Begin To Hope"

Now here is some cool spunk, reminiscent of Patty Smith even. I like this record a lot, but I've had a lot less time to process it than some of the others on this list. I think I might need a summer to appreciate it.

Hotel Song, Samson

J. DiMenna "Awkward Buildings"

In the style of Elliott Smith. A good listen.

Raggedy Ann, Comfort

Neko Case "Fox Confessor Brings the Flood"

Her voice is lovely, and this album feels enjoyably authentic.

Star Witness, At Last

Beirut "Gulag Orkestar"

I'll admit that most will find this record more novelty than anything, but there are also those few that will find it can be a perfect companion at times.

Mount Wroclai (Idle Days), Postcards From Italy

The Hold Steady "Boys and Girls in America"

This is a fun record. And as an added bonus, it pays a bit of tribute to Jack Kerouac.

Stuck Between Stations, Citrus

Catherine Feeny "Hurricane Glass"

Hush Now, Mr. Blue

The Mountain Goats "Get Lonely"

Woke Up New, If You See Light

John Mayer "Continuum"

I Don't Trust Myself (With Loving You), The Heart of Life

Grandaddy "Just Like the Fambly Cat"

Elevate Myself, Skateboarding Saves Me Twice

Honorable Mentions

Ben Kweller "Ben Kweller"

Thirteen, I Don't Know Why

Belle And Sebastian "The Life Persuit"

Song For Sunshine, Dress Up In You

The Killers "Sam's Town"

When You Were Young, Bones

The Raconteurs "Broken Boy Soldiers"

Hands, Steady As She Goes

The Good Luck Joes "What Do You Think of That Noise?"

48 Hours, Much Too Young

Gomez "How We Operate"

Notice

Goo Goo Dolls "Let Love In"

Stay With You

Keane "Under the Iron Sea"

Crystal Ball

Special Consideration

The Beatles - Love

The soundtrack for a special Cirque du Soleil Beatles Tribute is a complete remix of 26 songs by original producer George Martin and his son. Surprisingly awesome.

Jason Mraz - Selections for Friends

This live compilation has some to-die-for acoustic performances so bright and crisp it sounds better than being there.

Sufjan Stevens - Peace: Songs for Christmas Volume V

The newest installment in the amazing annual Christmas releases. The entire set was released this year, of which I had only heard vols 1-3.

High School Musical - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Just Kidding.

The Mix

Expect to receive a copy of this from me. If I forgot, let me know.

Stuck Between Stations The Hold Steady
No Man's Land Sufjan Stevens
Sunshine Matt Costa
You Are What You Love Jenny Lewis with The Watson Twins
Crazy Gnarls Barkley
Postcards from Italy Beirut
Riga Girls The Weepies
Wolves Josh Ritter
A Widow's Toast Neko Case
The Crane Wife 3 The Decemberists
Souvenirs Christine Fellows
Speeding Cars Imogen Heap
The Heart of Life John Mayer
Insomnia Electric President
Umbrellas Sleeping at Last
Winter Joshua Radin
Rootless Tree Damien Rice
Hush Now Catherine Feeny
Samson Regina Spektor
Blue Mind Alexi Murdoch
All You Need is Love The Beatles

Final thoughts

I wasn't all that happy with 2006. I just wasn't; maybe it was just me.
I did find it interesting that picks #1 and #2 from the Best of 2004 (The Killers & Keane, respectively) found their sophomore efforts out of my top 20.

Best Music of 2005

2005-12-24T05:31:00.001-06:00

This is prefaced by the usual: These selections are only from the albums that I purchased or borrowed from friends
(to either return or purchase myself). Only eligible are releases from Jan 1 to Dec 24, 2005.
If you disagree, or if you think I should have put Bright Eyes on this list, let me know. Last year, I was introduced
to Jamie Cullum by a reader's comment.

Albums

Sufjan Stevens "Come on Feel the Illinoise!" (aka "Illinois")

With a year of a lot of good music, Illinois rose to the top in my mind purely because of its uniqueness.
It is clearly the best work of Stevens: a full progression of the sound he has used in albums prior.
While "Michigan" can begin to drag on near the end, "Illinois" kept my interest.
Sufjan's lyrics are a head above any other album on this list. Poignant tales, gospel messages,
and history lessons are all large components of his songs, which are sung clearly and distinctly.
Introducing his music to others has been a little tough;
I will admit that "Illinois" takes a few listens to fall in love with.

start with The Predatory Wasp Of The Palisades Is Out To Get Us!, They Are Night Zombies!! They Are Neighbors!! They Have Come Back From The Dead!! Ahhhh!

Death Cab for Cutie "Plans"

You might say they've sold out. I ask you to listen to "Something About Airplanes" and tell me it's better than this. As an album, it doesn't match Transatlanticism. As for individual songwriting, however, it surpasses it.

I Will Follow You Into the Dark, Crooked Teeth

Coldplay "X&Y"

So who doesn't like this album? Yes, it's major-label, but I'm still allowed to like it. Their finest effort to date.

Fix You, Talk

Ben Lee "Awake is the New Sleep"

Recorded after a spiritual awakening to zen buddhism, his songs are strangely happy even when sad. I'd take it pretty hard, too, if I was dumped by Claire Danes.

Apple Candy, Close I've Come

Jack's Mannequin "Everything In Transit"

I met Andy McMahon in April '04. John Hoey, who was with me, asked him when he was going to record a solo album. At the time, he laughed, but a year later, he did it. Adding to the story is his bout with leukemia, and it makes for a great overtone to the album.
It's not a heavy disc by any means, though; it's "California in the summer".

I'm Ready, Holiday from Real

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals "Cold Roses"

Of Ryan Adams' 3 releases in 2005, this is the only one I've heard; I'm assured by others that this is the best. Jacksonville City Nights and Twenty-Nine are the others.
It's a beautiful mix of folk rock with exposed country roots. I should mention that it's a two-disc album, as if releasing three albums in a year didn't point out Adams' prolific nature enough.

When Will You Come Back Home, Let It Ride

Hot Hot Heat "Elevator"

Undoubtedly from somewhat cookie-cutter mold of post-punk alterna-pop-rock, Hot Hot Heat does it as well as anybody else could.
A summer album that's enjoyable in any season.

You Owe Me an IOU, Middle of Nowhere

Imogen Heap "Speak For Yourself"

Now well-known (as half of the electronica duo "Frou Frou") thanks to the ubiquitous Garden State soundtrack of 2004, her solo release is delightful.
Recommended for late-night driving.

The Walk, Hide and Seek

The White Stripes "Get Behind Me Satan"

Rolling Stone said it best: "If you happen to be a rock band, and you don't happen to be either of the White Stripes, it so sucks to be you right now."

My Doorbell, Ugly As I Seem

The New Pornographers "Twin Cinema"

Because old pornography isn't tasteful.

The Bleeding Heart Show, These Are The Fables

Spoon "Gimme Fiction"

It's been a few years since their last release, "Kill The Moonlight". "Fiction" is a darker album than its predecessors, but the more mature songwriting shines.

The Two Sides of Monsieur Valentine, I Summon You

Dave Matthews Band "Stand Up"

I am biased towards the band, but once accounted for, I'll admit they have not put out a great studio album since "Crash". "Stand Up" isn't "Crash", and it's not even "Before These Crowded Streets".
But it still is a monument in DMB discography: it's their best work in 6 years.

Louisiana Bayou, Dreamgirl

Jars of Clay "Redemption Songs"

O Come and Mourn With Me A While, On Jordan's Stormy Banks I Stand

Oasis "Don't Believe The Truth"

Best work since "What's the Story..."

The Importance of Being Idle, Lyla

Anna Nalick "Wreck of the Day"

In The Rough, Paper Bag

Jason Mraz Mr. A-Z

Did You Get My Message?, Plane

Ben Folds "Songs for Silverman"

Sentimental Guy

Youth Group "Skeleton Jar"

Lillian Lies, Shadowland

Bloc Party "Silent Alarm"

This Modern Love, Little Thoughts

M83 "Before The Dawn Heals Us"

Don't Save Us From the Flames, Teen Angst

Honorable Mentions

Bethany Dillon "Imagination"

New, Imagination

The Perishers "Let There Be Morning"

Pills

The Gorillaz "Demon Days"

Feel Good, Inc., DARE

Athlete "Tourist"

Half Light, Tourist

Raul Midon "State of Mind"

Keep On Hoping

The Fray "How To Save A Life"

Over My Head (Cable Car)

Kaiser Chiefs "Employment"

I Predict A Riot

The Afters "I Wish We All Could Win"

Beautiful Love

Nickel Creek "Why Should the Fire Die?"

When In Rome

Beck "Guero"

Scarecrow

Augustana "All The Stars and Boulevards"

Stars and Boulevards

EPs

Iron & Wine w/ Calexico "In the Reins"

16, Maybe Less, Burn That Broken Bed

Joshua Radin "First Between Third and Fourth"

Winter, The One You Knew

Ben Jelen "Rejected EP"

Room 1023

Iron & Wine "Woman King"

Jezebel, Gray Stables

The Good Luck Joes "48 Hours EP"

48 Hours

Ari Hest "Guilty Hearts EP"

One More Hour

Special Consideration

This Bird Has Flown: A 40th Anniversary Tribute to The Beatles' Rubber Soul

Unique and special covers by artists including those mentioned earlier in this post: Sufjan Stevens, Ben Lee.

Alanis Morissette - Jagged Little Pill Acoustic Anniversary Edition

Her original and best album with all the tracks redone acoustically. Worth a listen if you liked the 1995 release.

Elizabethtown - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

What happens when the writer/director cares more about the soundtrack than the film itself? You get a Cameron Crowe movie.

RENT - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

A better sound than the original cast recording; can be appreciated by both rent-heads and the rest of us.

Listen to Bob Dylan - A Tribute Album

It's Dylan, but Dylan's not singing.

The Mix

Expect to receive a copy of this from me. If I forgot, let me know.

My Doorbell The White Stripes
Over My Head (Cable Car) The Fray
You Owe Me An IOU Hot Hot Heat
I'm Ready Jack's Mannequin
Black Horse and the Cherry Tree KT Tunstall
Let It Ride Ryan Adams & The Cardinals
Stars and Boulevards Augustana
48 Hours The Good Luck Joes
Did You Get My Message? Jason Mraz
Beautiful Love The Afters
They Are Night Zombies!! They ... Sufjan Stevens
I Will Follow You Into The Dark Death Cab for Cutie
Apple Candy Ben Lee
The Walk Imogen Heap
The Bleeding Heart Show The New Pornographers
In The Rough Anna Nalick
He Lays In The Reins Iron & Wine and Calexico
Closer Joshua Radin
Fix You (Live) Coldplay

Next Year?

A new release from the Strokes and KT Tunstall's debut album should make for a great start in January 2006.

Final thoughts

Thanks to the iPod nation, we're seeing a continued trend of better songs than albums.
Stronger, cleaner arrangements have begun to dominate the indie genre, which used to be defined by its lacking in this area.
The internet has continued it's dominating influence in how people find out about and listen to music. Online music stores have continued to grow.
I recommend emusic and iTunes. Two of the best ways to expand your horizons
are "All Songs Considered" (a weekly podcast from NPR), and last.fm.
The latter logs your listening habits (with a long list of compatible media players) and creates personal recommendations.

I also use the All Music Guide as a definitive reference.

Albums of 2004

2004-12-15T12:08:00.001-06:00

This is prefaced by saying this: These are only from the albums that I purchased or copied from friends that were released in 2004. If you disagree, good.

1	The Killers - "Hot Fuss"
	To be quite honest there wasn't another album on this list that I had a strong desire to just play through on repeat over and over again. Despite mixed and unexciting initial reviews, including pegging the group as "Duran Duran Karaoke," I couldn't get enough of this CD for a long while. Maybe, however, it's because I didn't live through the 80s. Highlights: Mr. Brightside, All these things I've done
2	Keane - "Hopes And Fears"
	Sold at best buy for an attractive $6.99, I bought this on a complete whim. Although piano driven with soft, melodic vocals, "Hopes and Fears" doesn't lack energy. There was no breakout single, but be sure to check out This is the last time and Everybody's Changing.
3	Marc Broussard - "Carencro"
	Signed to Island Records (division of Universal Music Group) after the relative success of "Momentary Setback," he takes selections from "Setback" and adds some more of his poppy tunes with a slight soul flare to the mix. While I wouldn't say it was overproduced, "Carencro" was definitely a different direction than "Setback". Highlights: Rocksteady, Where You Are.
4	Jem - "Finally Woken"
	Electronic-infused pop that will remain in your head for days! She's an amazing welsh songwriter with a unique voice. Very chill, too… I've met her. Highlights: Wish I, Just a Ride.
5	Franz Ferdinand - "Franz Ferdinand"
	The best thing to come out of Scotland since William Wallace (IMHO). From this list, this CD might be the best to dance to. Oh, and these guys definitely spent some time in jail after holding these 'art' raves in a Glasgow warehouse. Amazing debut. Highlights: Take Me Out, Come on Home.
6	The Thrills - "Let's bottle bohemia"
	It would be very hard to beat last year's "So Much For the City." While definitely a more mature sound, it didn't top the first, and that's okay. Highlights: Faded Beauty Queens, What Ever Happened To Cory Haim?.
7	Interpol - "Antics"
	A lot has already said about their sophomore release, and I will take the same stance as I did with the Thrills. It's a great album, but no "Turn on the Bright Lights." And that's okay. Highlights: Evil, Not Even Jail.
8	Modest Mouse - "Good News for People Who Love Bad News"
	This CD has gotten sufficient publicity thanks to the success of "Float On". And this album did top the acclaimed "The Moon & Antarctica", avoiding the sophomore slump. Highlights: Float On, The View.
9	Ben Kweller - "On My Way"
	He's the only artist I know of that I can enjoy even though the guitar is slightly out of tune. Highlights: On My Way, I Need You Back.
10	The Arcade Fire - "Funeral"
	A late addition to my library, "Funeral" probably isn't ready for a true critique. The songs are varied nicely in style, but share a common simplicity that made it easy for me to like right away. Highlights: Neighborhood #3 (Power Out), Haiti.
11	Iron & Wine - "Our Endless Numbered Days"
	Highlights: Sunset Soon Forgotten, Sodom, South Georgia
12	Wilco - "A Ghost is Born"
	Highlights: Handshake Drugs, Muzzle of Bees.
13	The Walkmen - "Bows + Arrows"
	Highlights: Little House of Savages.
14	Ryan Cabrera - "Take it all away"
	Highlights: On the Way Down.
15	Rachael Yamagata - "Happenstance"
	Highlights: Letter Read, 1963.
16	Zero 7 - "When It Falls"
	Highlights: Look Up.
17	Vanessa Carlton - "Harmonium"
	Highlights: Private Radio, White Houses
18	Norah Jones - "Feels Like Home"
	Highlights: Toes, In the Morning.
19	Tamara Bedricky - "Through These Eyes"
	Highlights: Beautiful, A Million Miles.
20	Ari Hest - "Someone To Tell"
	"Aren't you a promoter for this guy," you ask? Yes. It's a great album. You still need to buy it. Highlights: Consistency, Not for Long.
21	The Vines - "Winning Days"
	Highlight: Ride.
22	Tom Butwin - "Living Room"
	Highlights: 3 Up from the End, Run.
23	The Moveable Furniture - "Content (or so we think)"
	At least we beat Ashlee Simpson. Highlights: Today, Lost Cause Morning.
24	Ashlee Simpson - "Autobiography"

Special Consideration:

- Keep on the lookout: Swedish band "The Perishers" will release "Let There Be Morning" in the US sometime in March. Songs from that upcoming album appear on the "Sway EP" at the iTunes music store, which can be bought now.
- Also watch for Johnathan Rice. His EP "Extended Player 24:26" is soon to be succeeded by a full-length release.
- Last but not least, Imogen Heap, the female half of "Frou Frou" will be releasing an untitled solo album early next year. You can purchase Goodnight and Go from her website now: http://www.imogenheap.co.uk.
- Without saying, the best compilation of the year goes to the Garden State soundtrack.
- 2003 was a great year for music, too, and there were many albums released in 2003 that I didn't purchase or hear until 2004. Unfortunately I'm just not that hip.

alterNate

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