Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Explanation of Absence
Some of you may have noticed I have been a bit unreliable with my posting lately and I am sorry about that. I have enjoyed working on this blog quite a bit and appreciate all of the support and kinds words I have received. However, over the weekend I had a chance to read the release of the most recent CIA and Senate Intelligence Reports and found them very troubling and discouraging to say the least. It isn't that I didn't suspect things of this sort were happening, however I always liked to give our government the benefit of the doubt and confirmation of such scenarios and the way we learned of it (Bush & co still refuse to acknowledge the reports which amazes me) was a little much. In response to these reports along with Bush's most recent Military Tribunal Proposal I have decided to put most of my time elsewhere. I have for some time been jaded by the two major parties in the US and have therefore been a member of the Libertarian Party. I try to avoid politics on this blog (sorry about today's news) and with the upcoming 2006 elections around the corner I have decided to do what I can to help. I have created a Libertarian Story & News Network to compile all news related to the party and candidates and have linked the Candidate Tracker Profiles provided by the National Party where appropriate. I will do my best to post on this blog when possible, but it is unlikely that it will be daily until at least after the elections. Thanks again for the support and enjoy today's posting.
Ragdoll 2
Site of the Day
Ragdoll 2
Maneuver a ragdoll around falling spikes using the up, down, left & right keys. The game isn't very complicated, but is quite fun with the over-exagerated movements of the doll....and I suppose the fact the doll can lose a few limbs and keep dancing is kind of cool.
News/Stories/Op-Ed - 09/13/06
Libertarians Making Headway in 2006 Elections
* Libertarians See Shot at Delay Seat
* Libertarian Finds Place In Heated 9th District
* %8 is the new 2% For Libertarians
* Libertarian Story & News Network
* Libertarians See Shot at Delay Seat
* Libertarian Finds Place In Heated 9th District
* %8 is the new 2% For Libertarians
* Libertarian Story & News Network
The Greatest Game Every Played - Beirut/Beer Pong
Video of the Day
If you have ever participated in an intense game of beer pong/beirut then you will probably enjoy this video (if you enjoy NFL Films then you will really like it). The video is a tad long but has some hillarious moments, even a Zidane headbutt!
If you have ever participated in an intense game of beer pong/beirut then you will probably enjoy this video (if you enjoy NFL Films then you will really like it). The video is a tad long but has some hillarious moments, even a Zidane headbutt!
Yo La Tengo - Sugarcube
Song of the Day
In honor of Yo La Tengo's amazing new album "I Am Not Afraid of You and I Will Beat Your Ass" (great review here), I have posted one of their classic videos "Sugarcube" (off of another great album of their's I Can Hear the Heart Beating As One) for your viewing pleasure.
In honor of Yo La Tengo's amazing new album "I Am Not Afraid of You and I Will Beat Your Ass" (great review here), I have posted one of their classic videos "Sugarcube" (off of another great album of their's I Can Hear the Heart Beating As One) for your viewing pleasure.
Friday, September 08, 2006
The Beach Boys Collection
Classic Band of the Day
The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys - Good Vibrations - 1966
The Beach Boys - In My Room - Red Skelton Show (Instrumental Backing)
The Beach Boys - California Girls -Oct. 23, 1965
Beach Boys - Wouldn't It Be Nice - 1966
The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys - Good Vibrations - 1966
The Beach Boys - In My Room - Red Skelton Show (Instrumental Backing)
The Beach Boys - California Girls -Oct. 23, 1965
Beach Boys - Wouldn't It Be Nice - 1966
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Gateway
Site of the Day
Gateway
Overcome a series of obstacles and puzzles in order to advance to the next stage. A three part tutorial teaches you the basics of the game and then you're off on your own. You control a 'block-figure' of sorts and point and click your way around each level. The challenges are very well designed and vary greatly so you never feel like you are doing the same thing over and over again. Check it out.
News/Stories/Op-Ed - 09/07/06
* New Pentagon Report Doesn't Paint Pretty Picture of Iraq War ... Why aren't any major media outlets covering this?
* Iran to Purge Universities of Liberal Teachers
* Tech Boost for Memory Power
* Scientists Map 'New Frontier' Deep Within Ocean
* Iran to Purge Universities of Liberal Teachers
* Tech Boost for Memory Power
* Scientists Map 'New Frontier' Deep Within Ocean
Day by Day - Political Strategy
Webcomic
Full Comic: Day by Day - Political Strategy
Looks like both major parties are running low on ideas. Might be time for a 3rd party to step in and make some real change.
Full Comic: Day by Day - Political Strategy
Looks like both major parties are running low on ideas. Might be time for a 3rd party to step in and make some real change.
Abandoned Russian City
Picture of the Day
Full Size:
Following the fall of the Soviet Union the Russian government lacked the necessary funds to support its vast territories. Coupled with years of artificial supply & demand there were established cities which simply lacked any anchor for Russia's rapidly declining population. For a full gallery of photos including the above image click here.
Full Size:
Following the fall of the Soviet Union the Russian government lacked the necessary funds to support its vast territories. Coupled with years of artificial supply & demand there were established cities which simply lacked any anchor for Russia's rapidly declining population. For a full gallery of photos including the above image click here.
How to Make A Bump Key
Video of the Day
Create your own master key in a little over a hour! A bump key will allow you to open any lock, anywhere. Full how-to and demonstration.
Interpol Live Performance and Interview
Song of the Day
As we near the 5th anniversary of 9/11 it's hard not look back on everything that has transpired. For me (and many others) music has always played an important role in creating a soundtrack of sorts to life. One band and album that stood out at the time for me was 'Interpol - Turn On the Bright Lights'. The overall tone of the album is dark, yet at times glimmering, beautifully crafted melodies shine through. While other artists were out there patching together sloppy 'rah rah' anthems Interpol managed to capture the unfortunate times and unfolding events. Not surprisenly Interpol hails from NYC and the album itself was recorded in Novemeber of that year. Listen to the first song perfomed in this performace/interview on the 'Morning Becomes Eclectic' show shortly following the release of "Bright Lights". The song entitled NYC describes a tired, lonely city but possesses a tranquil melody which builds throughout the song until it swells all while vocalist Paul Banks repeats 'but New York cares.' Never does the song directly refer to the event itself, yet some how it encompasses everything about it.
As we near the 5th anniversary of 9/11 it's hard not look back on everything that has transpired. For me (and many others) music has always played an important role in creating a soundtrack of sorts to life. One band and album that stood out at the time for me was 'Interpol - Turn On the Bright Lights'. The overall tone of the album is dark, yet at times glimmering, beautifully crafted melodies shine through. While other artists were out there patching together sloppy 'rah rah' anthems Interpol managed to capture the unfortunate times and unfolding events. Not surprisenly Interpol hails from NYC and the album itself was recorded in Novemeber of that year. Listen to the first song perfomed in this performace/interview on the 'Morning Becomes Eclectic' show shortly following the release of "Bright Lights". The song entitled NYC describes a tired, lonely city but possesses a tranquil melody which builds throughout the song until it swells all while vocalist Paul Banks repeats 'but New York cares.' Never does the song directly refer to the event itself, yet some how it encompasses everything about it.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Google Image Labeler
Site of the Day
Google Image Labeler
Newly released "game" from Google allows you to assist them in organizing their large database of images all while playing a highly addictive game. The way it works is Google partners you with someone at random and then begins displaying images. You and your partner then try to label the image and when the same word is entered it matches off and another picture is displayed. You play for 90 seconds and when time is up your score along with all of the images from the game are shown below with their links. Play as either a guest or login to your Google account to save points earned in the game. Two thumbs up if Google allows users to "cash in" these points for some sort of prize/reward (Google Checkout Credit?), as volunteers are essentially doing work on their behalf at no cost (also known as Crowdsourcing). The strategy could also benefit Google as it would entice some participants to sign up for an account and they would then be more likely to try their free services such as GMail, GTalk (which is badly trailing AIM) or the aforementioned Google Checkout. Guess we'll have to wait and see on that one...but in the meantime enjoy the game!
SEO Black Hat recounts a rather amusing experience with the game here.
Google Image Labeler
Newly released "game" from Google allows you to assist them in organizing their large database of images all while playing a highly addictive game. The way it works is Google partners you with someone at random and then begins displaying images. You and your partner then try to label the image and when the same word is entered it matches off and another picture is displayed. You play for 90 seconds and when time is up your score along with all of the images from the game are shown below with their links. Play as either a guest or login to your Google account to save points earned in the game. Two thumbs up if Google allows users to "cash in" these points for some sort of prize/reward (Google Checkout Credit?), as volunteers are essentially doing work on their behalf at no cost (also known as Crowdsourcing). The strategy could also benefit Google as it would entice some participants to sign up for an account and they would then be more likely to try their free services such as GMail, GTalk (which is badly trailing AIM) or the aforementioned Google Checkout. Guess we'll have to wait and see on that one...but in the meantime enjoy the game!
SEO Black Hat recounts a rather amusing experience with the game here.
Remarkable True-Color Image of the Moon
Picture of the Day
Full Size: Remarkable True-Color Image of the Moon
A Must See!!!
Link to Non-Widescreen Version
Full Size: Remarkable True-Color Image of the Moon
A Must See!!!
Link to Non-Widescreen Version
M. Ward (featuring Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes) - Vincent O'Brien
Song of the Day
Live performance on Austin City Limits of "Vincent O'Brien" off the fantastic M. Ward album 'Transfiguration of Vincent'. The song takes a moment or two to get going but when it does M. and Conor's voices blend for a haunting duet.
Live performance on Austin City Limits of "Vincent O'Brien" off the fantastic M. Ward album 'Transfiguration of Vincent'. The song takes a moment or two to get going but when it does M. and Conor's voices blend for a haunting duet.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Throw Paper!
Site of the Day
Throw Paper!
Partly to stay in theme with "the Office" video postings below and the fact it isn't always easy to get back into the work routine afer a long weekend this fun little game seemed appropriate for today. Throw Paper! is about as straight-foward as they come: click the paper and hold, take fan speed into account & then release paper at correct angle. Though simple, this game can help the time pass at a suprisenly fast rate, have fun!
Throw Paper!
Partly to stay in theme with "the Office" video postings below and the fact it isn't always easy to get back into the work routine afer a long weekend this fun little game seemed appropriate for today. Throw Paper! is about as straight-foward as they come: click the paper and hold, take fan speed into account & then release paper at correct angle. Though simple, this game can help the time pass at a suprisenly fast rate, have fun!
the Office Values - Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant
Videos of the Day
Parts 1 and 2 of this hillarious Microsoft training spoof featuring Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant of "The Office"(UK) fame.
Parts 1 and 2 of this hillarious Microsoft training spoof featuring Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant of "The Office"(UK) fame.
My Morning Jacket - Steam Engine (Jim James solo/acoustic)
Song of the Day
Jim James from the always-awesome My Morning Jacket performs a solo/acoustic version of "Steam Engine" off of MMJ's third-proper album, "It Still Moves."
Jim James from the always-awesome My Morning Jacket performs a solo/acoustic version of "Steam Engine" off of MMJ's third-proper album, "It Still Moves."
Monday, September 04, 2006
Labor Day 2006
Image Courtesy of War Production Board, 1943Well it is Labor Day today in The States and in honor of such I will be off doing something unrelated to work. However, feel free to take a look around at older posts or thumb through the menu categories in the left sidebar. I have marked a few favorites I especially liked. Be back Tuesday. Enjoy.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
littleFoot
Sunday Feature Animation
littleFoot
This is one of the most polished and visually pleasing flash animations I have ever come across. I seem to recall reading somewhere the artist (Adam Phillips) behind this series is a former Disney employee, however I am unable to verify if that is the case. In any event the presentation remains top notch and the creative fantasy world brought to life reminds me a bit of books like Where the Wild Things Are or pretty much any of Ronald Dahl's work I so enjoyed when I was young. The movie itself takes a moment to load but is well worth it. Enjoy
littleFoot
This is one of the most polished and visually pleasing flash animations I have ever come across. I seem to recall reading somewhere the artist (Adam Phillips) behind this series is a former Disney employee, however I am unable to verify if that is the case. In any event the presentation remains top notch and the creative fantasy world brought to life reminds me a bit of books like Where the Wild Things Are or pretty much any of Ronald Dahl's work I so enjoyed when I was young. The movie itself takes a moment to load but is well worth it. Enjoy
World View of Google Traffic
Picture of the Day
Full Size: Google's Daily Traffic - World View - Click To Animate
Map and Story Courtesy of the O'Reilly Radar.
Full Size: Google's Daily Traffic - World View - Click To Animate
Map and Story Courtesy of the O'Reilly Radar.
Building Demolition Gone Bad
Video of the Day
Hmm...a case for never worrying about over doing it with the TNT...
Hmm...a case for never worrying about over doing it with the TNT...
Hot Chip - Over and Over
Song of the Day
Whether "Over and Over" is a tongue-in-cheek reference to the song itself or rather, a deeper, social commetary on the often mundane routine of today's corporate work culture is anyone's guess. What is more imporant however is that the song itself rocks and has one of those melodies that you find yourself humming 15 minutes later. "Over and Over" is Hotchip's first top 40 song in the UK, but they have yet to make any real inroads here in the US. Not suprisenly the band itself is based out of the UK with its members at one time calling Leeds and London, home.
Whether "Over and Over" is a tongue-in-cheek reference to the song itself or rather, a deeper, social commetary on the often mundane routine of today's corporate work culture is anyone's guess. What is more imporant however is that the song itself rocks and has one of those melodies that you find yourself humming 15 minutes later. "Over and Over" is Hotchip's first top 40 song in the UK, but they have yet to make any real inroads here in the US. Not suprisenly the band itself is based out of the UK with its members at one time calling Leeds and London, home.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Chumby
Site of the Day
Chumby
There was plenty of buzz around this product at this years Foo Camp, a tech conference held in the fine city of San Francisco. What exactly is Chumby? Well in a sense it is a glorified alarm clock, but in actuality it is much more than that. Chumby is a wi-fi enabled, open source module which as soon as you register it on their website you can personalize it into anything you want. There are already a number of small widgets available for Chumby enabling you to turn it into anything from a cell phone, mp3 player, tv remote, air condition monitor or basically anything you can envision. Popular Tech Blog Techcrunch got a hands on preview with the product which is going to retail for roughly $150. Very cool indeed!
Chumby
There was plenty of buzz around this product at this years Foo Camp, a tech conference held in the fine city of San Francisco. What exactly is Chumby? Well in a sense it is a glorified alarm clock, but in actuality it is much more than that. Chumby is a wi-fi enabled, open source module which as soon as you register it on their website you can personalize it into anything you want. There are already a number of small widgets available for Chumby enabling you to turn it into anything from a cell phone, mp3 player, tv remote, air condition monitor or basically anything you can envision. Popular Tech Blog Techcrunch got a hands on preview with the product which is going to retail for roughly $150. Very cool indeed!
Frank Zappa the Oracle - 1986
Video of the Day
Frank Zappa was not only a gifted musician and defender of indivual rights and liberties, but it also appears he was a bit of an oracle as well. Ok, so maybe that is a stretch, but he certainly was able to acutely perceive the changes in the environment in which he lived. On this episode of Crossfire he fends off three opponents all while defending free expression and the right to create any art deemed worthy by an individual. The whole video is entertaining, but it especially gets interesting at around 9:45 when Zappa makes his bold prediction about the direction the US is heading.
Frank Zappa was not only a gifted musician and defender of indivual rights and liberties, but it also appears he was a bit of an oracle as well. Ok, so maybe that is a stretch, but he certainly was able to acutely perceive the changes in the environment in which he lived. On this episode of Crossfire he fends off three opponents all while defending free expression and the right to create any art deemed worthy by an individual. The whole video is entertaining, but it especially gets interesting at around 9:45 when Zappa makes his bold prediction about the direction the US is heading.
The Shins - The Past and Pending
Song of the Day
Perhaps a bit overshadowed by "New Slang", especially following a certain movie about a certain US state, "The Past and Pending" closes out The Shins excellent debut album "Oh, Inverted World". The Shins made the move from New Mexico to Oregon following this album and this video seems to add a bit of closure for James Mercer in more than one way. Check it out!
Perhaps a bit overshadowed by "New Slang", especially following a certain movie about a certain US state, "The Past and Pending" closes out The Shins excellent debut album "Oh, Inverted World". The Shins made the move from New Mexico to Oregon following this album and this video seems to add a bit of closure for James Mercer in more than one way. Check it out!
Friday, September 01, 2006
Space Invaders
Classic Game of the Day
Space Invaders
Along with Pac-Man and Frogger, Space Invaders ranks right up there as one of the most influential games ever created. Designed in 1978 by Toshihiro Nishikado the game was an immediate hit and went on to generate hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue in its first year of release alone. One of the most compelling (and at the time unique) features of the game was thw way the remaining aliens sped up as more of the other aliens were destroyed. This incidently was not planned and it just so happened that with more aliens on the screen the game slowed (the original arcade game ran on an Intel 8080 processor at a whopping 2 MHz) and when they died it freed up memory. The other key feature was that it was the first game that was not timed which meant the better you were the longer you could play. So go ahead and see where you rank on this classic...
Space Invaders
Along with Pac-Man and Frogger, Space Invaders ranks right up there as one of the most influential games ever created. Designed in 1978 by Toshihiro Nishikado the game was an immediate hit and went on to generate hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue in its first year of release alone. One of the most compelling (and at the time unique) features of the game was thw way the remaining aliens sped up as more of the other aliens were destroyed. This incidently was not planned and it just so happened that with more aliens on the screen the game slowed (the original arcade game ran on an Intel 8080 processor at a whopping 2 MHz) and when they died it freed up memory. The other key feature was that it was the first game that was not timed which meant the better you were the longer you could play. So go ahead and see where you rank on this classic...
Think In Pictures - Classic Gaming Art
Retro Picture of the Day (Frogger)
This site combines classic gaming screens with art. See the full collection here.
This site combines classic gaming screens with art. See the full collection here.
A Day in the Life of a Retro Gaming Fan - Fantastic Stop Motion Video
Classic Video of the Day
This video combines our every day environment with some of your favorite classic games. A terrific use of stop motion video.
Bob Marley Video Collection
Classic Videos of the Day
It is sometimes difficult to know where to even start when discussing Bob Marley. His music is at once both infectious and (I believe) timeless. Not only did he have a knack for writing great pop songs but his lyrical prowess mustn't ever be questioned. Whether it be the simple, reassuring message "everything is going to be alright" or something a bit more pereceptive such as "emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds. have no fear for atomic energy, cause none of them can stop the time" his words remain relevant and true today. His relentless optimism and hope in the face of poverty is something every individual should "check in" and remind themselves of from time to time. So why don't you go ahead catch up with Mr. Marley a little, now is as good a time as any other...
Bob Marley Stir It Up
Bob Marley - Redemption Song
Bob Marley - Three Little Birds
Bob Marley - No Woman No Cry
Bob Marley - Buffalo Soldier
It is sometimes difficult to know where to even start when discussing Bob Marley. His music is at once both infectious and (I believe) timeless. Not only did he have a knack for writing great pop songs but his lyrical prowess mustn't ever be questioned. Whether it be the simple, reassuring message "everything is going to be alright" or something a bit more pereceptive such as "emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds. have no fear for atomic energy, cause none of them can stop the time" his words remain relevant and true today. His relentless optimism and hope in the face of poverty is something every individual should "check in" and remind themselves of from time to time. So why don't you go ahead catch up with Mr. Marley a little, now is as good a time as any other...
Bob Marley Stir It Up
Bob Marley - Redemption Song
Bob Marley - Three Little Birds
Bob Marley - No Woman No Cry
Bob Marley - Buffalo Soldier
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Pandora
Site of the Day
Pandora
Looking to find new music? Well if you've watched all the music videos this site has to offer maybe you should give Pandora a look. Released a little more than a year ago (read its history on the official blog) Pandora has has built a loyal following. While it can be difficult to find a radio station that plays your favorite indie rock, classic rock, hip hop & maybe even dabbles in a little techno here and there, Pandora conforms to your personal taste. The way it works is you first create a station, enter a handful of bands you like & then begin listening. As each song plays you have the ability to give it a thumbs up or down and even click on an option that tells you why Pandora thought you might like the particular song. It's a great tool if you are looking for something new or perhaps are just tired of your collection. Give it a look.
Pandora
Looking to find new music? Well if you've watched all the music videos this site has to offer maybe you should give Pandora a look. Released a little more than a year ago (read its history on the official blog) Pandora has has built a loyal following. While it can be difficult to find a radio station that plays your favorite indie rock, classic rock, hip hop & maybe even dabbles in a little techno here and there, Pandora conforms to your personal taste. The way it works is you first create a station, enter a handful of bands you like & then begin listening. As each song plays you have the ability to give it a thumbs up or down and even click on an option that tells you why Pandora thought you might like the particular song. It's a great tool if you are looking for something new or perhaps are just tired of your collection. Give it a look.
Philips Entertaible (Touch-Screen Game Board)
Picture of the Day
Philips will shortly be releasing what looks to be an interesting concept, a touch-screen gaming board, that functions kind of like a big DS. Joystiq posted a short article about it and you can also view additional pictures here.
Full Size: Playing Philips New Touch-Screen Gaming Board
Philips will shortly be releasing what looks to be an interesting concept, a touch-screen gaming board, that functions kind of like a big DS. Joystiq posted a short article about it and you can also view additional pictures here.
Full Size: Playing Philips New Touch-Screen Gaming Board
The Story of the Parachute and Flare Gun
Video of the Day
Gotta love how FOX can't help but place their logo on everything and how the host tries to build drama by hoping aloud "open the other chute. open the other chute."
Gotta love how FOX can't help but place their logo on everything and how the host tries to build drama by hoping aloud "open the other chute. open the other chute."
Blur - Country House
Song of the Day
I've been a fan of Blur since around the release of The Great Escape and this is probably the first song that did it for me. I had listened a bit to Parklife but only for a short time before The Great Escape. Being from the States I came across them kind of by chance (on a trip to NYC I walked into some sort of promo for the album) as the band didn't get much exposure here prior to "Song 2" and sadly not much afterwards either. Whether it be due to Albarn's occasional anti-American sentiment or perhaps Oasis simply beating them to the punch with "What's the Story Morning Glory" (which was released at the same time as The Great Escape) the band hasn't faired well here, but hey Bush (the band...and well yes, the President) did and supposedly they never charted across the pond (at least not initially). What exactly this means I don't know, but Blur has released countless classic cuts and will unquestionably be posted here some more. Oasis, Bush, Radiohead, The Verve & plenty of other 90s UK bands, but no Blur...I still don't get it to this day...good thing Albarn is a cartoon in the Gorillaz....
I've been a fan of Blur since around the release of The Great Escape and this is probably the first song that did it for me. I had listened a bit to Parklife but only for a short time before The Great Escape. Being from the States I came across them kind of by chance (on a trip to NYC I walked into some sort of promo for the album) as the band didn't get much exposure here prior to "Song 2" and sadly not much afterwards either. Whether it be due to Albarn's occasional anti-American sentiment or perhaps Oasis simply beating them to the punch with "What's the Story Morning Glory" (which was released at the same time as The Great Escape) the band hasn't faired well here, but hey Bush (the band...and well yes, the President) did and supposedly they never charted across the pond (at least not initially). What exactly this means I don't know, but Blur has released countless classic cuts and will unquestionably be posted here some more. Oasis, Bush, Radiohead, The Verve & plenty of other 90s UK bands, but no Blur...I still don't get it to this day...good thing Albarn is a cartoon in the Gorillaz....
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Simon
Site of the Day
Simon
You remember Simon, right? In the 80s this was one hot toy and heck it even helped improve your memory, or so they claimed. Nowadays kids (and adults!)are busy playing mind games such as Brain Age or Sodoku, but back then it was all flashing colors, monotone sound & good ole' fashion memorization. So did you break the toy or lose it some time ago, well no worries because you can relive those glory days on your PC now. Just click the link and enjoy.
Simon
You remember Simon, right? In the 80s this was one hot toy and heck it even helped improve your memory, or so they claimed. Nowadays kids (and adults!)are busy playing mind games such as Brain Age or Sodoku, but back then it was all flashing colors, monotone sound & good ole' fashion memorization. So did you break the toy or lose it some time ago, well no worries because you can relive those glory days on your PC now. Just click the link and enjoy.
Man Uses Sound Waves to Levitate Objects
Video of the Day
Interesting video where a man controls sound frequencies on the X,Y & Z axis in order to levitate objects. Be warned...you might want to throw your computer on mute before playing this video...
Video Creator: "This was just one of the frequencies over a sonic and ultrasonic range I did research in to determine levitation vs freq., nothing more, nothing less. Water, metal can be levitated, but all of this must conform to the physics at hand."
-
Dr. David Deak
DEAK Energies, Inc.
Interesting video where a man controls sound frequencies on the X,Y & Z axis in order to levitate objects. Be warned...you might want to throw your computer on mute before playing this video...
Video Creator: "This was just one of the frequencies over a sonic and ultrasonic range I did research in to determine levitation vs freq., nothing more, nothing less. Water, metal can be levitated, but all of this must conform to the physics at hand."
-
Dr. David Deak
DEAK Energies, Inc.
Swearing at Motorists - Timing is Everything
Song of the Day
Swearing at Motorists create some of the best raw, crunchy rock and roll out there. This two piece band hails from Dayton Ohio which is made immediately clear when seen live as the Ohio flag hangs as the backdrop for each and every show. If you are interested in checking out more of their stuff after watching this video I highly recommend the song "Flying Pizza" (and apparently I am not alone as it is the song referenced on their Wiki page), a classic rock tune dealing with the always undesirable run-in with an 'ex.' There live shows are a high energy affair and definitely worth seeking out if they are playing nearby.
Swearing at Motorists create some of the best raw, crunchy rock and roll out there. This two piece band hails from Dayton Ohio which is made immediately clear when seen live as the Ohio flag hangs as the backdrop for each and every show. If you are interested in checking out more of their stuff after watching this video I highly recommend the song "Flying Pizza" (and apparently I am not alone as it is the song referenced on their Wiki page), a classic rock tune dealing with the always undesirable run-in with an 'ex.' There live shows are a high energy affair and definitely worth seeking out if they are playing nearby.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Tower Blaster
Site of the Day
Tower Blaster
If you can get past the sometimes cheesy animation and sound effects you are in for an addicting game. The basic premise is to stack a group of bricks on top of one another smallest to largest. The challenge is you are sharing the same pile of bricks with the Viking enemy and if you swap a brick out of your tower they then have the ability to use it in theirs and vice versa. The bricks are conveniently numbered so one can immediately tell the size of one brick from the next. As you progress to more advanced levels there are less to choose from and it can be more challenging to find the necessary brick to complete your tower. If you are still a bit unclear of what I mean give it a try and you should be able to pick it up within a minute or two. Enjoy...
Tower Blaster
If you can get past the sometimes cheesy animation and sound effects you are in for an addicting game. The basic premise is to stack a group of bricks on top of one another smallest to largest. The challenge is you are sharing the same pile of bricks with the Viking enemy and if you swap a brick out of your tower they then have the ability to use it in theirs and vice versa. The bricks are conveniently numbered so one can immediately tell the size of one brick from the next. As you progress to more advanced levels there are less to choose from and it can be more challenging to find the necessary brick to complete your tower. If you are still a bit unclear of what I mean give it a try and you should be able to pick it up within a minute or two. Enjoy...
News - 08/28/06
* Philips Lumalive Textile Garments - Place any scrolling text or picture on your clothes and watch the colors change
* NYC to LA in Two Hours
* Rep. Katherine Harris Embarrasses Self, Her Country and Anyone Who Claims Her a Friend
I am truly speechless on this one and am afraid if I begin a rant I may not be able to stop...oh but it is so tempting...
* NYC to LA in Two Hours
* Rep. Katherine Harris Embarrasses Self, Her Country and Anyone Who Claims Her a Friend
I am truly speechless on this one and am afraid if I begin a rant I may not be able to stop...oh but it is so tempting...
Overlooking a Rural Chinese Village
Picture of the Day
Full Size: Full Gallery of amazing China photographs including the above picture.
Full Size: Full Gallery of amazing China photographs including the above picture.
Amazing Police Dog Training Footage
Video of the Day
And I thought my parent's Jack Russell could jump!
Erik Mongrain - AirTap
Song of the Day
I have always had a soft spot for melodic instrumentals whether it is Godspeed You! Black Emperor or something a bit more tame like the Beatles. When I came across Erik Mongrain this evening I wasn't quite sure what to make of him as I can honestly say the last artist I could clearly recall fretboard tapping was Eddie Van Halen on "Eruption." Certainly Mongrain's stylings are completely different than all of the aforementioned artists/bands, but there is something unique about his brand of "lap tapping" that draws the listener in. A melody that almost seems comprised of a half-dozen harmonics weaves its way between the string slapping and bass line plucking to the foreground of the song before abrubtly returning to the back (see 40 second marker for an example of this transition.) With the focus of the song constantly shifting Erik grabs your attention and forces you to hear it all the way through. For more info on Erick see here.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Choose and Watch
Site of the Day
Choose and Watch
This website allows you to watch hundreds of TV channels for free all from the convenience of your PC. Everything from news broadcasts, movie channels, sports programming & even music channels (I'm rocking out to the Electric Light Orchestra as we speak) are easily available. This site is the first of its kind I have come across and I find it to be incredibly useful. For example, I find US news programming to be quite poor (especially with world news, see news story #1 below) and while my local public broadcaster does play the BBC News, due to my schedule (and lack of TIVO) I always miss it, however with this site I can easily watch it every day. Granted I could simply go to the BBC website and watch it there, this site organizes all the available programming into easy-to-use menus. The one caveat I will point out is that I have been having trouble running this site in my Firefox browser. There are some known issues highlighted in the problem section of this site, but I have instead opted to open Internet Explorer and run the site there. Small glitches aside this site is well worth exploring a bit and you might even be surprised as to some of the big names available on it. Check it out.
Choose and Watch
This website allows you to watch hundreds of TV channels for free all from the convenience of your PC. Everything from news broadcasts, movie channels, sports programming & even music channels (I'm rocking out to the Electric Light Orchestra as we speak) are easily available. This site is the first of its kind I have come across and I find it to be incredibly useful. For example, I find US news programming to be quite poor (especially with world news, see news story #1 below) and while my local public broadcaster does play the BBC News, due to my schedule (and lack of TIVO) I always miss it, however with this site I can easily watch it every day. Granted I could simply go to the BBC website and watch it there, this site organizes all the available programming into easy-to-use menus. The one caveat I will point out is that I have been having trouble running this site in my Firefox browser. There are some known issues highlighted in the problem section of this site, but I have instead opted to open Internet Explorer and run the site there. Small glitches aside this site is well worth exploring a bit and you might even be surprised as to some of the big names available on it. Check it out.
News - 08/28/06
* NSA Wiretap Whistleblowers Found Dead
Sadly this story is receiving very little media coverage in the US while abroad it is only further hurting our already damaged image.
* New Environmental Results for the Largest Tech Companies
* Google Releasing Office Email Package
* Scientists Find Memory Molecule
Sadly this story is receiving very little media coverage in the US while abroad it is only further hurting our already damaged image.
* New Environmental Results for the Largest Tech Companies
* Google Releasing Office Email Package
* Scientists Find Memory Molecule
Magic Sand
Video of the Day
This "Magic Sand" manages to minimize the surface area exposed to other substances so even when dumped into a bucket of water it remains dry.
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah - Over and Over Again (Lost and Found)
Song of the Day
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah busted on to the Indie Rock scene with their self-titled, self-released debut album which sold more than 100,000 copies all from their apartment (at least initially) in Brooklyn. While drawing comparisons to the Talking Heads or Neutral Milk Hotel might be a bit premature, their album is certainly full of catchy melodies and grooves while their live shows highlight the great back-beat in many of the songs. Some find fault with the vocals, but give it a listen and if you find yourself digging this song then I highly recommend these guys. Quick Note: I have been unable to verify whether this is an officially released video, in any event it is fun.
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah busted on to the Indie Rock scene with their self-titled, self-released debut album which sold more than 100,000 copies all from their apartment (at least initially) in Brooklyn. While drawing comparisons to the Talking Heads or Neutral Milk Hotel might be a bit premature, their album is certainly full of catchy melodies and grooves while their live shows highlight the great back-beat in many of the songs. Some find fault with the vocals, but give it a listen and if you find yourself digging this song then I highly recommend these guys. Quick Note: I have been unable to verify whether this is an officially released video, in any event it is fun.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Dreamscapes by Sean McBride
Sunday Feature Animation
Dreamscapes
OK, so last week I called it the Sunday Flash Movie, but I came across this film and it wasn't in flash format so I decided to change the name of this weekly event to simply, the Sunday Feature Animation. Through the use of digital painting Dreamscapes explores the dream sequences of the 20 different individuals interviewed for the making of this movie. The film has received much well deserved acclaim including the Best Animated Film 2003 at the Malibu Film Festival. The large number of unique animation styles is impressive and the transition between each is well executed. Coupled with solid narration and Dreamscapes is a solid 6 minute film.
Passing Afternoon by Kean Soo
Webcomic
Full Comic: Passing Afternoon by Kean Soo
I promised myself when I posted an Iron & Wine song I would be sure to highlight this webcomic the same day, so here you go. Kean Soo has a whole series of webcomics he writes along with a rather excellent selection of music.
In his own words: "Usually when I decide to write a music comic," says Soo, "it’s either spurred on by a particular song (Passing Afternoon, for example), or I’ll write a story and then later go back and try to find a matching song for it (as in Snowstorm). I think in these cases, I’m definitely trying to use music to enhance a particular mood or feeling.(webcomicsreview.com")
I can't remember where I read the following instructions, but they are dead on...when reading music/webcomics be sure to let the music fully load and then start the song before reading. Also, pace yourself as you read, wait a couple lines before moving to the next frame, it makes for a greater overall experience. I will definitely be highlighting more of Soo's work in the future.
Full Comic: Passing Afternoon by Kean Soo
I promised myself when I posted an Iron & Wine song I would be sure to highlight this webcomic the same day, so here you go. Kean Soo has a whole series of webcomics he writes along with a rather excellent selection of music.
In his own words: "Usually when I decide to write a music comic," says Soo, "it’s either spurred on by a particular song (Passing Afternoon, for example), or I’ll write a story and then later go back and try to find a matching song for it (as in Snowstorm). I think in these cases, I’m definitely trying to use music to enhance a particular mood or feeling.(webcomicsreview.com")
I can't remember where I read the following instructions, but they are dead on...when reading music/webcomics be sure to let the music fully load and then start the song before reading. Also, pace yourself as you read, wait a couple lines before moving to the next frame, it makes for a greater overall experience. I will definitely be highlighting more of Soo's work in the future.
Iron & Wine - Southern Anthem
Song of the Day
Southern Anthem comes off of Iron & Wine's debut album "The Creek Drank the Cradle." Sam Beam who is the man behind the band also directs this powerful video. In a interview with Prefix Magazine he explains a bit behind the meaning of both the song and video:
"That whole song for me was more about the Southern identity, given all the stuff that people still deal with, repercussions of the Civil War. And then what I think is more sad is how it's gotten transfused into this media image, like Lynyrd Skynyrd, like flag-waving bullshit. It's just a silly translation of Southern culture.
That's more of what the song was about, the lost identity. But yeah, race definitely plays into it. We made the music video deal more specifically with that issue than I felt the song was, but for me that's what's fun about videos."
If for some reason you have yet to check this band out please do, Sam Beam has written some of the best music of the last five years. Period.
Southern Anthem comes off of Iron & Wine's debut album "The Creek Drank the Cradle." Sam Beam who is the man behind the band also directs this powerful video. In a interview with Prefix Magazine he explains a bit behind the meaning of both the song and video:
"That whole song for me was more about the Southern identity, given all the stuff that people still deal with, repercussions of the Civil War. And then what I think is more sad is how it's gotten transfused into this media image, like Lynyrd Skynyrd, like flag-waving bullshit. It's just a silly translation of Southern culture.
That's more of what the song was about, the lost identity. But yeah, race definitely plays into it. We made the music video deal more specifically with that issue than I felt the song was, but for me that's what's fun about videos."
If for some reason you have yet to check this band out please do, Sam Beam has written some of the best music of the last five years. Period.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Refraction
Site of the Day
Refraction
This game doesn't actually have a name as far as I know so I just came up with "Refraction." Designed by someone who goes by the name Hawkpeng79, this game requires you to place mirrors in strategic locations so that you may aim beams of light at color coded dots. The first two levels are rather basic, however after that you begin to mix the different colored beams and things start to get interesting. The site itself appears to be Chinese so you may experience some minor scripting issues, however I have not had any problems with the gameplay. Simply drag the mirror on to the grid and then click on it to change the angle. It is a simple concept, but well executed and is worth checking out.
Refraction
This game doesn't actually have a name as far as I know so I just came up with "Refraction." Designed by someone who goes by the name Hawkpeng79, this game requires you to place mirrors in strategic locations so that you may aim beams of light at color coded dots. The first two levels are rather basic, however after that you begin to mix the different colored beams and things start to get interesting. The site itself appears to be Chinese so you may experience some minor scripting issues, however I have not had any problems with the gameplay. Simply drag the mirror on to the grid and then click on it to change the angle. It is a simple concept, but well executed and is worth checking out.
News
* Follow-up from Thursday - FCC Investigates Verizon & BellSouth After Both Continue Charging Dropped Government Fee
* Follow-up from Friday - White House Tries to Discredit Stem Cell Breakthrough
* GM Showcases "Dual-Hybrid" Engines for SUVs and Pickups
* Police Arrest Man For Carrying Lots of Money
* Follow-up from Thursday - FCC Investigates Verizon & BellSouth After Both Continue Charging Dropped Government Fee
* Follow-up from Friday - White House Tries to Discredit Stem Cell Breakthrough
* GM Showcases "Dual-Hybrid" Engines for SUVs and Pickups
* Police Arrest Man For Carrying Lots of Money
The Clientele - Reflections After Jane
Song of the Day
This song is off The Clientele's debut album Suburban Light and is one of my favorites. It also happens to be the only video of theirs I was able to locate on any of the video sharing sites, so the choices were limited to say the least. No worries though, if you are unfamiliar with the Clientele this is a solid example of their sound. Hushed vocals and melodic melodies often conjure up the imagery of that moment in the day when the sun just sets below the horizon blanketing everything in a violet hue (perfect for that long walk home following a busy day at work). I wish I could claim to have come up with that analogy, however the title of their second (and fantastic) album is "The Violet Hour" and I am pretty certain this is what they were referring to. The Clientele are based out of London and have put out three proper albums, the most recent Strange Geometry (2005) to critically acclaimed reviews.
This song is off The Clientele's debut album Suburban Light and is one of my favorites. It also happens to be the only video of theirs I was able to locate on any of the video sharing sites, so the choices were limited to say the least. No worries though, if you are unfamiliar with the Clientele this is a solid example of their sound. Hushed vocals and melodic melodies often conjure up the imagery of that moment in the day when the sun just sets below the horizon blanketing everything in a violet hue (perfect for that long walk home following a busy day at work). I wish I could claim to have come up with that analogy, however the title of their second (and fantastic) album is "The Violet Hour" and I am pretty certain this is what they were referring to. The Clientele are based out of London and have put out three proper albums, the most recent Strange Geometry (2005) to critically acclaimed reviews.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Frogger
Classic Game of the Day
Frogger
Frogger needs no introduction. Following its release to the arcades back in 1981, Frogger has gone on to become one of the most influential and well known games worldwide. It has since become a cult classic amongst retro gamers and even had a memorable part in a Seinfeld episode. This version is a slighly modified one with the only critical change being better graphics. Enjoy!
Frogger
Frogger needs no introduction. Following its release to the arcades back in 1981, Frogger has gone on to become one of the most influential and well known games worldwide. It has since become a cult classic amongst retro gamers and even had a memorable part in a Seinfeld episode. This version is a slighly modified one with the only critical change being better graphics. Enjoy!
News - 08/25/06
* New Study: Simplest Known Social Creatures, the Single-Celled Amoebae, Favor Their Offsrping
* For the First Time Scientists Extract Stem Cells From Human Embryo Without Destroying Budding Life
* Evolutionary Biology Vanishes From the List of Federally Approved Majors For Low-Income Students Seeking Grants
* Russia Now Worlds Largest Supplier of Oil
* For the First Time Scientists Extract Stem Cells From Human Embryo Without Destroying Budding Life
* Evolutionary Biology Vanishes From the List of Federally Approved Majors For Low-Income Students Seeking Grants
* Russia Now Worlds Largest Supplier of Oil
The Evolution of David Bowie
Classic Songs of the Day
David Bowie - Space Oddity - 1970
David Bowie - Ziggy Stardust Live-1973
Queen & David Bowie - Under Pressure - 1982
Mick Jagger & David Bowie - Dancing in the Streets - 1984
David Bowie - Space Oddity - 1970
David Bowie - Ziggy Stardust Live-1973
Queen & David Bowie - Under Pressure - 1982
Mick Jagger & David Bowie - Dancing in the Streets - 1984
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Board Dots
Site of the Day
Board Dots
This game is going to make you use your noggin a bit. That's okay though as it can serve as a warm up for the Nanotech Assembler video posted a little further down the page. You begin each level by selecting a square on the grid to make your first move. Once done, a blue dot will appear in that square and you will then choose which direction you would like to move next. Be careful though as when you choose a direction your dot will move as far as it can and will only stop if it runs into either a black dot or line denoting your dot has already passed through. I should probably also point out you can restart any level by clicking the 'restart' button about the board. This is a fun game which will force you to do some thinking at the same time, check it out.
Board Dots
This game is going to make you use your noggin a bit. That's okay though as it can serve as a warm up for the Nanotech Assembler video posted a little further down the page. You begin each level by selecting a square on the grid to make your first move. Once done, a blue dot will appear in that square and you will then choose which direction you would like to move next. Be careful though as when you choose a direction your dot will move as far as it can and will only stop if it runs into either a black dot or line denoting your dot has already passed through. I should probably also point out you can restart any level by clicking the 'restart' button about the board. This is a fun game which will force you to do some thinking at the same time, check it out.
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