For those of you that care, I am still working on getting the promised links up on the other pages. Currently I am trying to get all of my RPG gaming links in order and up on the proper page. I've gotten a few put up and will definitely be more to soon.
I have tons of links to go through, organize and add, so it is taking me a bit longer than I thought it would. This may result in me consolidating a couple of the pages, but I assure you I am still working on it when I have the free-time (which is not very often) and I will get some more up soon.
Showing posts with label Misc. Stuff. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Misc. Stuff. Show all posts
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Thursday, February 3, 2011
The greatest car commercial ever!
I came across this on Newsarama and just had to share it.
I'm sure more than a few of us can see ourselves in this mini-Vader. As a kid I know that I ran around in my Vader Halloween costume (it was one of those cheap plastic ones from the late 70's - early 80's) terrorizing anything and anyone who crossed my path on more than one occasion. If I had a costume that fit me now, I'd probably still do it.
I'm sure more than a few of us can see ourselves in this mini-Vader. As a kid I know that I ran around in my Vader Halloween costume (it was one of those cheap plastic ones from the late 70's - early 80's) terrorizing anything and anyone who crossed my path on more than one occasion. If I had a costume that fit me now, I'd probably still do it.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Geek Gazette on Examiner.com
While looking for RPG related news I stumbled upon Examiner.com. It is basically an online news and events site. While the focus of the site is not gaming there are quite a few Examiners that do specialize in various games. There are Examiners, each writer is called an Examiner, for video games, boardgames, music, paganism, atheism, politics and the list goes on and on.
There are examiner pages for most of the major cities in the U.S. and each of them is employs 1 Examiner for the various topics. These aren't exactly blogs, though some aren't far from it. Still there is a wealth of good information on these site and they are worth checking out.
Here is a list of the some of the gaming related Examiners, but there are many more.
Chicago Games and Hobbies Examiners
Minneapolis Games and Hobbies Examiners
Los Angeles Games and Hobbies Examiners
Indianapolis Games and Hobbies Examiners
Atlanta Games and Hobbies Examiners
and of course me The Louisville Table Top Game Examiner
I figured after years of putting the Geek Gazette out as a print fanzine, and now a blog, I'd try my hand at writing for someone else. You will likely see some cross-content, but the Gazette will predominately remain my place for opinions and musings about comics, gaming and other geeky stuff.
So check out the various examiners and if there isn't one in your area, maybe you should take the title of the local Examiner.
There are examiner pages for most of the major cities in the U.S. and each of them is employs 1 Examiner for the various topics. These aren't exactly blogs, though some aren't far from it. Still there is a wealth of good information on these site and they are worth checking out.
Here is a list of the some of the gaming related Examiners, but there are many more.
Chicago Games and Hobbies Examiners
Minneapolis Games and Hobbies Examiners
Los Angeles Games and Hobbies Examiners
Indianapolis Games and Hobbies Examiners
Atlanta Games and Hobbies Examiners
and of course me The Louisville Table Top Game Examiner
I figured after years of putting the Geek Gazette out as a print fanzine, and now a blog, I'd try my hand at writing for someone else. You will likely see some cross-content, but the Gazette will predominately remain my place for opinions and musings about comics, gaming and other geeky stuff.
So check out the various examiners and if there isn't one in your area, maybe you should take the title of the local Examiner.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Name the new spacestation node
This may not be directly RPG related, but there is an RPG connection and this is something I think gamers will like to know about.
I was over at Cthulhu.com and saw that they were asking for readers to vote for Cthulhu as the name of NASA's next space station node. So naturally I wanted to see what this was all about and followed the link to NASA's site.
After voting, yes I voted for Cthulhu because I think that would be absolutely hilarious, I decided to check out the top names at this point and almost kicked myself when I found out what was number 1... Serenity with 78% of the vote!
I can't believe that I didn't think to write in Serenity, Millenium Falcon, Star Destroyer, Galactica or some other name that would have made geeky, sci-fi sense. So while I still think having a part of the space station named Cthulhu would be some funny shit, I have to admit I like the idea that it could be named Serenity. Knowing that up there, in the black, Serenity was flying high would be pretty damn cool. Plus with the other nodes being named Unity and Harmony, Serenity just makes sense.
So I am asking every reader and RPG blogger to go to the site and either vote for Cthulhu or Serenity.
I was over at Cthulhu.com and saw that they were asking for readers to vote for Cthulhu as the name of NASA's next space station node. So naturally I wanted to see what this was all about and followed the link to NASA's site.
After voting, yes I voted for Cthulhu because I think that would be absolutely hilarious, I decided to check out the top names at this point and almost kicked myself when I found out what was number 1... Serenity with 78% of the vote!
I can't believe that I didn't think to write in Serenity, Millenium Falcon, Star Destroyer, Galactica or some other name that would have made geeky, sci-fi sense. So while I still think having a part of the space station named Cthulhu would be some funny shit, I have to admit I like the idea that it could be named Serenity. Knowing that up there, in the black, Serenity was flying high would be pretty damn cool. Plus with the other nodes being named Unity and Harmony, Serenity just makes sense.
So I am asking every reader and RPG blogger to go to the site and either vote for Cthulhu or Serenity.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Want to work in comics?
Here are a few links you might find useful if you, like most of us geeks, want to break into the comic book business. For the most part these links are geared towards writers, but some have useful info for artists, inkers, etc...
http://comicbookcreatorsworkshop.freeforums.org/
http://www.ehow.com/how_2283882_be-creative-comic-book-writer.html
http://www.digitalwebbing.com/talent/
http://www.comicjobz.com/
(comicjobz is down at the moment, but hopefully will be up an running soon)
List of comic book companies
If you know of any more useful links leave a comment and I'll post them.
http://comicbookcreatorsworkshop.freeforums.org/
http://www.ehow.com/how_2283882_be-creative-comic-book-writer.html
http://www.digitalwebbing.com/talent/
http://www.comicjobz.com/
(comicjobz is down at the moment, but hopefully will be up an running soon)
List of comic book companies
If you know of any more useful links leave a comment and I'll post them.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
The Big Dog Falls to the Back of the Pack.
According to numerous sources Sony has fallen to the number 3 spot in the console wars. The Wii came in at #1, X-box 360 at #2 and the PS3 is trudging along in third place. The do it all PSP is falling behind the DS and even the iPhone in sales. I never really considered the iPhone a handheld gaming machine, but I guess I was wrong.
Despite having the superior hardware in both the console and handheld markets (at least when comparing the PSP to the DS), Sony just can't over take the competition. Some claim that the lack of exclusive games, as most such as GTA IV and FF XIII are/will be available on both Microsoft's and Sony's machines. Plus both franchises have games that are or will soon be released on both the DS and PSP. No one seems willing to make exclusive games anymore, which makes sense to me. Why put all your eggs in one basket when you can double or triple sales by having your game on multiple consoles?
Many claim that lack of innovation is hurting Sony. Sure the PS3 packs more punch but no developers are really pushing the envelope and exploiting the potential of the machine. The video format wars seems to have cooled off and it looks like Blu-ray isn't as in demand as people thought it would be. Honestly I only know a few people that even have a HD TV so an HD gaming system or movie player just doesn't make sense to them. They simply don't care. After all a Blu-ray pretty much looks like any other DVD on a non-HD TV, so why bother shelling out for something that makes little to no difference in your life. The X-box and Wii are both cheaper and for hard core gamers the X-box has most of the same games. The Wii has innovative, though gimmicky, game play that kids, casual gamers and even grandma can enjoy. To make matters worse if you look around you can buy Blu-ray players and either an X-box 360 arcade (I wouldn't have one, but that's just me) or a Wii for the same or less than you can get a PS3. Besides if the rumors are true Blu-ray may be going the way of the Laser Disc from back in the 80's... remember those? Unless your as old as me, probably not.
Even though the DS can't touch the PSP in terms of power, it has a touch screen, which in turn make the device seem more advanced. The iPhone has a touch screen and it is "The Phone" to own, ergo the DS must be more advanced as well. Sure the PSP can render 3d graphics, play mp3s, movies, games, browse the internet, offer free internet radio, and act as a phone, but it doesn't have a touch screen... so it must be outdated. Plus it uses those loud and slow disc while the other one has those cute, silent little cards. At least that is how people not in the know look at it (i.e. grandparents and parents shopping for the kiddies).
So let us compare:
Wii- innovative game play, family friendly, affordable and it is from Nintendo... everyone loves Nintendo, internet browsing, some free online apps, Mii's, DS connectivity, backwards compatible with Game Cube (big plus especially in my household) and has a library of older games (nostalgia is a big selling point) that can be downloaded and played. From classic Mario to Animal Crossing, this system really does have something to offer every generation of gamer. Sure it isn't that powerful and the games are generally cartoonish, but damn some of them are fun.
X-box 360- 3 different versions to fit any budget, most of the same games as PS3( Final Fantasy on X-box!!!!), Halo, network gaming (though you do have to pay for the good stuff... yuck), it can connect to netflix (that's awesome), movies and shows available on the Microsoft Network, wireless controllers, internet connectivity (though you need a hard drive, and the wireless adapter is sold seperatedly, but you can use a LAN line), more powerful than the Wii, backwards compatibility with X-box ( big plus), connectivity with the Zune is coming soon (someone actually owns a Zune? Wow...).
PS3- most powerful system, even though they aren't exclusive anymore the big games are still on this system, free network play (though not as developed as on the X-box), can run Linux (that's cool), has wireless internet connectivity built in, Movies, games and shows available on the Playstation Network(most of which can then be transferred to your PSP), connectivity to the PSP (you can actually use your PSP to contact your PS3 from anywhere in the world if you have a wireless internet connection), no more backwards compatibility (that sucks!), wireless controllers, Blu-ray player, 2 different models (total of 5 if you count models that are no longer manufactured, but could be available on ebay) though the cheapest model is still as much as the most expensive X-box.
In our house we love our video games. We have several systems from previous generations, a Super NES, Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, PS1, PS2, X-box, and a Game Cube. In the hand held department we each have a Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Game Boy SP, and Nintendo DS, while I alone have a PSP(that's because I'm the most awesomest!). BTW I love my PSP... it is my hand held system of choice and I take it nearly everywhere. At the behest of my significant other and our youngin', Santa brought a Wii into our happy gaming family. While I personally have only a mild interest in the system (I do like customizing Miis, bowling is kinda fun too), I can't decide which system to get next. In the past I made my decision based solely on Final Fantasy, Sony had it Microsoft didn't, easy choice. I can't do that now.
So now I am left with making my choice based on other criteria.
1. I love my PSP and the PS3 works with it...
2. X-box 360 will allow me to watch my netflix without my computer... man that rocks!
3. Both are capable of wireless internet, but I'd have to pay more to get the X-box up to par... which would make the 2 systems comparable in price in the end...(the Microsoft wireless adapter cost about $100, though I'm sure I can find someplace to save a few bucks), but I can always just run a LAN line under the floor to the TV room....additional cost ($0) because I already have the cable and router.
4. I want to play DC Universe online and Sony has free online play... YEAH!
5. I want to play Champions Online, but Microsoft charges for online play... that sux (additional costs).
6. PS3 plays Blu-ray... but I own too many DVD's to start replacing my entire collection... again! I've still got some VHS I haven't replace yet! Though it does play DVDs as well...
7. X-box also plays DVDs, at least I think it still does.
8. I can still play most of my old X-box games on the 360.
9. I can't play any of my PS2 games on the PS3... unless I track down an out of date model.
10. The red ring of death... is that problem taken care of yet?
11. All the negative press regarding the PS3 is troublesome.
12. Who really cares if either system plays DVDs... I have 3 DVD players, not to mention several computers that play DVDs in my house already. I want a kick ass gaming system!
As it stands right now I am heavily leaning towards an X-box 360, but man do I really want a PS3.... It just looks as if the 360 is the system to get at the moment. If some of the rumors I've heard are true, the PS3 and the PSP are in for a major overhaul in 09. So maybe it isn't the time to invest in Sony again, at least not yet.
Despite having the superior hardware in both the console and handheld markets (at least when comparing the PSP to the DS), Sony just can't over take the competition. Some claim that the lack of exclusive games, as most such as GTA IV and FF XIII are/will be available on both Microsoft's and Sony's machines. Plus both franchises have games that are or will soon be released on both the DS and PSP. No one seems willing to make exclusive games anymore, which makes sense to me. Why put all your eggs in one basket when you can double or triple sales by having your game on multiple consoles?
Many claim that lack of innovation is hurting Sony. Sure the PS3 packs more punch but no developers are really pushing the envelope and exploiting the potential of the machine. The video format wars seems to have cooled off and it looks like Blu-ray isn't as in demand as people thought it would be. Honestly I only know a few people that even have a HD TV so an HD gaming system or movie player just doesn't make sense to them. They simply don't care. After all a Blu-ray pretty much looks like any other DVD on a non-HD TV, so why bother shelling out for something that makes little to no difference in your life. The X-box and Wii are both cheaper and for hard core gamers the X-box has most of the same games. The Wii has innovative, though gimmicky, game play that kids, casual gamers and even grandma can enjoy. To make matters worse if you look around you can buy Blu-ray players and either an X-box 360 arcade (I wouldn't have one, but that's just me) or a Wii for the same or less than you can get a PS3. Besides if the rumors are true Blu-ray may be going the way of the Laser Disc from back in the 80's... remember those? Unless your as old as me, probably not.
Even though the DS can't touch the PSP in terms of power, it has a touch screen, which in turn make the device seem more advanced. The iPhone has a touch screen and it is "The Phone" to own, ergo the DS must be more advanced as well. Sure the PSP can render 3d graphics, play mp3s, movies, games, browse the internet, offer free internet radio, and act as a phone, but it doesn't have a touch screen... so it must be outdated. Plus it uses those loud and slow disc while the other one has those cute, silent little cards. At least that is how people not in the know look at it (i.e. grandparents and parents shopping for the kiddies).
So let us compare:
Wii- innovative game play, family friendly, affordable and it is from Nintendo... everyone loves Nintendo, internet browsing, some free online apps, Mii's, DS connectivity, backwards compatible with Game Cube (big plus especially in my household) and has a library of older games (nostalgia is a big selling point) that can be downloaded and played. From classic Mario to Animal Crossing, this system really does have something to offer every generation of gamer. Sure it isn't that powerful and the games are generally cartoonish, but damn some of them are fun.
X-box 360- 3 different versions to fit any budget, most of the same games as PS3( Final Fantasy on X-box!!!!), Halo, network gaming (though you do have to pay for the good stuff... yuck), it can connect to netflix (that's awesome), movies and shows available on the Microsoft Network, wireless controllers, internet connectivity (though you need a hard drive, and the wireless adapter is sold seperatedly, but you can use a LAN line), more powerful than the Wii, backwards compatibility with X-box ( big plus), connectivity with the Zune is coming soon (someone actually owns a Zune? Wow...).
PS3- most powerful system, even though they aren't exclusive anymore the big games are still on this system, free network play (though not as developed as on the X-box), can run Linux (that's cool), has wireless internet connectivity built in, Movies, games and shows available on the Playstation Network(most of which can then be transferred to your PSP), connectivity to the PSP (you can actually use your PSP to contact your PS3 from anywhere in the world if you have a wireless internet connection), no more backwards compatibility (that sucks!), wireless controllers, Blu-ray player, 2 different models (total of 5 if you count models that are no longer manufactured, but could be available on ebay) though the cheapest model is still as much as the most expensive X-box.
In our house we love our video games. We have several systems from previous generations, a Super NES, Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, PS1, PS2, X-box, and a Game Cube. In the hand held department we each have a Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Game Boy SP, and Nintendo DS, while I alone have a PSP(that's because I'm the most awesomest!). BTW I love my PSP... it is my hand held system of choice and I take it nearly everywhere. At the behest of my significant other and our youngin', Santa brought a Wii into our happy gaming family. While I personally have only a mild interest in the system (I do like customizing Miis, bowling is kinda fun too), I can't decide which system to get next. In the past I made my decision based solely on Final Fantasy, Sony had it Microsoft didn't, easy choice. I can't do that now.
So now I am left with making my choice based on other criteria.
1. I love my PSP and the PS3 works with it...
2. X-box 360 will allow me to watch my netflix without my computer... man that rocks!
3. Both are capable of wireless internet, but I'd have to pay more to get the X-box up to par... which would make the 2 systems comparable in price in the end...(the Microsoft wireless adapter cost about $100, though I'm sure I can find someplace to save a few bucks), but I can always just run a LAN line under the floor to the TV room....additional cost ($0) because I already have the cable and router.
4. I want to play DC Universe online and Sony has free online play... YEAH!
5. I want to play Champions Online, but Microsoft charges for online play... that sux (additional costs).
6. PS3 plays Blu-ray... but I own too many DVD's to start replacing my entire collection... again! I've still got some VHS I haven't replace yet! Though it does play DVDs as well...
7. X-box also plays DVDs, at least I think it still does.
8. I can still play most of my old X-box games on the 360.
9. I can't play any of my PS2 games on the PS3... unless I track down an out of date model.
10. The red ring of death... is that problem taken care of yet?
11. All the negative press regarding the PS3 is troublesome.
12. Who really cares if either system plays DVDs... I have 3 DVD players, not to mention several computers that play DVDs in my house already. I want a kick ass gaming system!
As it stands right now I am heavily leaning towards an X-box 360, but man do I really want a PS3.... It just looks as if the 360 is the system to get at the moment. If some of the rumors I've heard are true, the PS3 and the PSP are in for a major overhaul in 09. So maybe it isn't the time to invest in Sony again, at least not yet.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Intervview with Jonathan Coulton
This interview is reprinted from an issue of the old Geek Gazette e-zine. I have tried to add notes and udates to any outdated information.
If you listen to geek podcast or read the Geek Gazette you’ve probably heard the name Jonathan Coulton once or twice. Mr. Coulton is a talented musician that embraces the concept of geek music in a way that is unlike any other performer that I have encountered. His music is funny and serious at the same time. With a sly wink and a nudge he can present you with the most ridiculous of notions in the most sincere way. Unlike other niche musicians Mr. Coulton’s music can make you laugh or make you think. Hailing from Colchester CT, he began his musical career as a drummer in his high school marching band, eventually switching to guitar. His love of music, which he studied in college, and performing has followed him throughout his life. His music covers topics as varied as the loyal fans who enjoy it. Whether he’s singing about a disgruntled computer programmer, Bigfoot or broken hearts his songs range from the truly geeky to the sincerely emotional. Even the most absurd subject is treated with what Mr. Coulton refers to as a sincere truth. He is a truly talented and imaginative performer who gives a part of himself to his fans with each song and only ask that they listen and enjoy. A true rarity in this selfish, American Idol society where most artists expect much more than they ever give to their fans.
Geek Gazette: From the bio on your website you obviously have a love for music and performing, but have you always had an inclination towards more humorous music?
Jonathan Coulton: Definitely. I loved Tom Lehrer as a kid, even though I didn’t get all the jokes. And when I first started writing the funny stuff came pretty naturally. Though I tend to oscillate between funny and sad – I think my first song ever was about a guy who wakes up on a cold rainy day and feels lonely. Not so funny actually. And my favorite songs are the ones that are balanced precariously on the edge between the two.
GG: Do you think your musical interest and abilities were natural or were you brought up in that kind of environment?
JC: Ah, nature vs. nurture. I’d have to say a little of both. My parents are both very musical people, and I was singing harmony with my family in the car as soon as I could speak. And I remember as a kid using two tape recorders to try and recreate the vocals for That Boy (Ringo’s Theme). Actually, it sounded terrible. I do think to be a musician you need to have some innate abilities, but it also definitely helps to have people around you making music.
GG: What artist or bands to you feel had the most impact on you musically?
JC: Answering this question always feels like pulling my pants down in front of an audience. Get ready for the free show everybody. I’ve always loved The Beatles and their offspring. Though I’m into the sensitive folky singer songwriter vibe as well. Watch this: Dan Fogelberg! Billy Joel! Simon and Garfunkel! And vocals really get me going, which is why I loved listening to old Whiffenpoofs records as a kid. These days I’m very strongly influenced by (read: derivative of) They Might Be Giants, Ben Folds and Fountains of Wayne.
GG: Your songs not only show your talent as a musician but your incredible imagination, where do you get the inspiration for your lyrics?
JC: I’m a geek at heart, so I have this background noise of geeky stuff, both popular culture and actual science. On the stove a pot is simmering and in it are Avagadro’s number, some Star Trek episodes, Bernoulli’s principle, and all the James Bond movies. I’m often writing about misunderstood characters - I like to use all this stuff to get a feeling of longing, or a bad breakup, or any kind of bottled up personality. Monsters who don’t get why everybody’s running away…
GG: Unlike Weird Al or Adam Sandler the humor and geekiness in many of your songs is very subdued, if you don’t listen to the lyrics you could miss it. A perfect example of this is Under the Pines, where you never actually state that it’s Bigfoot and Leonard Nimoy. Do you write your songs aiming for this subtlety or does it just come out that way?
JC: That one I definitely kept as subtle as I could. I try to be as sincere as possible, even when I’m writing about Bigfoot and Nimoy getting it on. There’s a danger in doing such goofy subject matter, because it’s easy to slide into the realm of “novelty songs” (some people would say that I’m there). Sometimes the more direct approach just sounds clunky and contrived to me, and in a song like that the word “Bigfoot” would stick out like a boiled egg in the middle of a wedding cake.
GG: As I am sure you know a large portion of your fan base is the “geek” community , do you consider yourself a geek?
JC: ? chr(89) + chr(101) + chr(115) + chr(46)
GG: Speaking of geeks a great many of us that listen to your music, and several of the podcast that have spotlighted your music are RPG players and comic book collectors Yet, I have never heard one of your songs that focuses on either of these topics, have you ever thought about doing one?
JC: I have, though I don’t actually have a lot of experience with comics and RPG. I know: I call myself a geek? I didn’t get into D&D because the learning and buying curve seemed like too much trouble, and I’m afraid to even get involved with something like WoW because I know that I would spend all my time on it. It also feels a little gimmicky to me – one of those subjects that can all too easily slip into the novelty zone. I wouldn’t want to write about those topics unless I could find some kind of sincere truth in there to address (not that there isn’t any sincerity in RPG and comics, just that it hasn’t revealed itself to me yet). Freakin muse – what are you gonna do?
GG: First of May, I Feel Fantastic and Skull Crusher Mountain are three of my personal favorites, which one of your songs is your personal favorite or which one do you love to play the most?
JC: My favorites to play live are the funny/sad ones. I love introducing “I Crush Everything” as a song about a giant squid who hates himself. The audience gets all ready for hilarity, and there are a couple of moments where they feel like they’re going to get it, but then it just gets sadder and sadder until everybody’s crying. It almost makes the audience uncomfortable, which I find thrilling. Of course Skullcrusher Mountain and First of May are both exciting to play because it’s really fun to watch the punchlines hit, especially with an uninitiated audience.
GG: While all of your songs are better than a lot of the music on the radio, you continue to put out mostly humorous, off beat songs, why? With songs like When You Go you obviously have the ability to write mainstream music, why stay off the radar?
JC: Somehow it’s easier for me to get at what I want to express by going through the offbeat subjects. I don’t know why that is. Maybe I’m afraid of writing about myself, and so I have to do it with a sneak attack. It’s also that I can’t often get any traction when I start with a premise like “this song will be about a boy who loves a girl.” I need a hook of an idea to hang the song on, and until I have that, I just can’t get excited enough to generate anything that I like.
GG: Some of the fan made videos for your songs are pretty good, did you encourage this or was this something the fans started?
JC: I think that I encouraged it – all my songs are released under a Creative Commons license that allows for any noncommercial re-use of the music, so the permission to do it is there explicitly. But I’ve been overwhelmed by the number of people who have taken up the challenge. All these different styles and techniques, all these people spending hours and hours working on a video for one of my songs; it’s incredibly gratifying. And I love the idea that the creative process doesn’t stop when I finish a song – obviously the beholder of any piece of art becomes part of the creative process by interpreting what they see or hear, but this goes past that. It’s like we’re collaborating on something beyond the song.
GG: Your fans are a very loyal group and I’ve heard it commented that you are the geek equivalent to Jimmy Buffet. Do you see yourself this way?
JC: Jimmy Buffet. OK, I’ll take that. I get a lot of labels like “Balladeer” or “Troubadour” and I accept them gratefully. But I’m not going to come up with some shark fin dance that everybody has to do at my concerts. OK, maybe a zombie thing, but no shark fin stuff.
GG: Since Jimmy Buffet Fans are called Parrot Heads, what would you call Jonathan Coulton fans?
JC: JoCoists? Coultonistas? Half-pony, half-monkey monsters?
GG: The internet has become the bane of the music industry, yet you seem to have embraced it. Do you think you could have achieved the following you have with out it?
JC: Absolutely not. Something’s happened over the last year, and it had little to do with any of my activities in the real world. I’m well aware that what I do is pretty niche, and not that attractive to “mainstream radio” or “record labels” or “anyone with money.” The internet has allowed me to reach the pockets of people who would like my music. That’s an old story by now, but it’s no less true. Whatever success I’ve had so far would not have been possible without broadband and the mp3 format.
GG: Even if you never get a big time recording deal, do you see yourself continuing to play and produce music for the geek masses?
JC: I hope so – as long as I can stand it. At some point it may become necessary for me to get some kind of a job that makes money, when I have a midlife crisis and need to buy a sports car RIGHT AWAY. But for now I’m getting so much pleasure out of writing and playing and connecting with people, it’s hard to imagine giving it up. GG: What exactly is a Spizzsink and a Wiffenpoof?
JC: Spizzwink and Whiffenpoof. Both are a cappella singing groups at Yale where I went to college. A little dorky maybe, especially if you’ve never seen it before – you walk into a room and there’s a bunch of college guys dressed in tuxedos singing “Midnight Train to Georgia,” I can understand why you might be a little thrown. But when you’re in it, it’s such a thrill. It’s honestly one of the greatest musical experiences I’ve ever had, just singing harmony with a large group of people. And you get a lot of tail. I mean a LOT of tail. Just kidding.
If you aren’t already a fan of Jonathan Coulton’s music but you are interested in finding out more about this talented geek balladeer check out his website, www.jonathancoulton.com . From his site you can download songs, buy CD’s or get on the message forums and rub elbows with other half-pony half-monkey monsters. You can also subscribe to his Thing a Week podcast through itunes and download his latest geeky creations or subscribe to The Jonathan Coulton Project and download the fan made videos to his songs. ****Note: Since this article was originally published the Thing A Week Podcast has been discontinued. Although I do think you can still download some old episodes on itunes and ofcourse you can by Mr. Coulton’s music on itunes as well.****
If you listen to geek podcast or read the Geek Gazette you’ve probably heard the name Jonathan Coulton once or twice. Mr. Coulton is a talented musician that embraces the concept of geek music in a way that is unlike any other performer that I have encountered. His music is funny and serious at the same time. With a sly wink and a nudge he can present you with the most ridiculous of notions in the most sincere way. Unlike other niche musicians Mr. Coulton’s music can make you laugh or make you think. Hailing from Colchester CT, he began his musical career as a drummer in his high school marching band, eventually switching to guitar. His love of music, which he studied in college, and performing has followed him throughout his life. His music covers topics as varied as the loyal fans who enjoy it. Whether he’s singing about a disgruntled computer programmer, Bigfoot or broken hearts his songs range from the truly geeky to the sincerely emotional. Even the most absurd subject is treated with what Mr. Coulton refers to as a sincere truth. He is a truly talented and imaginative performer who gives a part of himself to his fans with each song and only ask that they listen and enjoy. A true rarity in this selfish, American Idol society where most artists expect much more than they ever give to their fans.
Geek Gazette: From the bio on your website you obviously have a love for music and performing, but have you always had an inclination towards more humorous music?
Jonathan Coulton: Definitely. I loved Tom Lehrer as a kid, even though I didn’t get all the jokes. And when I first started writing the funny stuff came pretty naturally. Though I tend to oscillate between funny and sad – I think my first song ever was about a guy who wakes up on a cold rainy day and feels lonely. Not so funny actually. And my favorite songs are the ones that are balanced precariously on the edge between the two.
GG: Do you think your musical interest and abilities were natural or were you brought up in that kind of environment?
JC: Ah, nature vs. nurture. I’d have to say a little of both. My parents are both very musical people, and I was singing harmony with my family in the car as soon as I could speak. And I remember as a kid using two tape recorders to try and recreate the vocals for That Boy (Ringo’s Theme). Actually, it sounded terrible. I do think to be a musician you need to have some innate abilities, but it also definitely helps to have people around you making music.
GG: What artist or bands to you feel had the most impact on you musically?
JC: Answering this question always feels like pulling my pants down in front of an audience. Get ready for the free show everybody. I’ve always loved The Beatles and their offspring. Though I’m into the sensitive folky singer songwriter vibe as well. Watch this: Dan Fogelberg! Billy Joel! Simon and Garfunkel! And vocals really get me going, which is why I loved listening to old Whiffenpoofs records as a kid. These days I’m very strongly influenced by (read: derivative of) They Might Be Giants, Ben Folds and Fountains of Wayne.
GG: Your songs not only show your talent as a musician but your incredible imagination, where do you get the inspiration for your lyrics?
JC: I’m a geek at heart, so I have this background noise of geeky stuff, both popular culture and actual science. On the stove a pot is simmering and in it are Avagadro’s number, some Star Trek episodes, Bernoulli’s principle, and all the James Bond movies. I’m often writing about misunderstood characters - I like to use all this stuff to get a feeling of longing, or a bad breakup, or any kind of bottled up personality. Monsters who don’t get why everybody’s running away…
GG: Unlike Weird Al or Adam Sandler the humor and geekiness in many of your songs is very subdued, if you don’t listen to the lyrics you could miss it. A perfect example of this is Under the Pines, where you never actually state that it’s Bigfoot and Leonard Nimoy. Do you write your songs aiming for this subtlety or does it just come out that way?
JC: That one I definitely kept as subtle as I could. I try to be as sincere as possible, even when I’m writing about Bigfoot and Nimoy getting it on. There’s a danger in doing such goofy subject matter, because it’s easy to slide into the realm of “novelty songs” (some people would say that I’m there). Sometimes the more direct approach just sounds clunky and contrived to me, and in a song like that the word “Bigfoot” would stick out like a boiled egg in the middle of a wedding cake.
GG: As I am sure you know a large portion of your fan base is the “geek” community , do you consider yourself a geek?
JC: ? chr(89) + chr(101) + chr(115) + chr(46)
GG: Speaking of geeks a great many of us that listen to your music, and several of the podcast that have spotlighted your music are RPG players and comic book collectors Yet, I have never heard one of your songs that focuses on either of these topics, have you ever thought about doing one?
JC: I have, though I don’t actually have a lot of experience with comics and RPG. I know: I call myself a geek? I didn’t get into D&D because the learning and buying curve seemed like too much trouble, and I’m afraid to even get involved with something like WoW because I know that I would spend all my time on it. It also feels a little gimmicky to me – one of those subjects that can all too easily slip into the novelty zone. I wouldn’t want to write about those topics unless I could find some kind of sincere truth in there to address (not that there isn’t any sincerity in RPG and comics, just that it hasn’t revealed itself to me yet). Freakin muse – what are you gonna do?
GG: First of May, I Feel Fantastic and Skull Crusher Mountain are three of my personal favorites, which one of your songs is your personal favorite or which one do you love to play the most?
JC: My favorites to play live are the funny/sad ones. I love introducing “I Crush Everything” as a song about a giant squid who hates himself. The audience gets all ready for hilarity, and there are a couple of moments where they feel like they’re going to get it, but then it just gets sadder and sadder until everybody’s crying. It almost makes the audience uncomfortable, which I find thrilling. Of course Skullcrusher Mountain and First of May are both exciting to play because it’s really fun to watch the punchlines hit, especially with an uninitiated audience.
GG: While all of your songs are better than a lot of the music on the radio, you continue to put out mostly humorous, off beat songs, why? With songs like When You Go you obviously have the ability to write mainstream music, why stay off the radar?
JC: Somehow it’s easier for me to get at what I want to express by going through the offbeat subjects. I don’t know why that is. Maybe I’m afraid of writing about myself, and so I have to do it with a sneak attack. It’s also that I can’t often get any traction when I start with a premise like “this song will be about a boy who loves a girl.” I need a hook of an idea to hang the song on, and until I have that, I just can’t get excited enough to generate anything that I like.
GG: Some of the fan made videos for your songs are pretty good, did you encourage this or was this something the fans started?
JC: I think that I encouraged it – all my songs are released under a Creative Commons license that allows for any noncommercial re-use of the music, so the permission to do it is there explicitly. But I’ve been overwhelmed by the number of people who have taken up the challenge. All these different styles and techniques, all these people spending hours and hours working on a video for one of my songs; it’s incredibly gratifying. And I love the idea that the creative process doesn’t stop when I finish a song – obviously the beholder of any piece of art becomes part of the creative process by interpreting what they see or hear, but this goes past that. It’s like we’re collaborating on something beyond the song.
GG: Your fans are a very loyal group and I’ve heard it commented that you are the geek equivalent to Jimmy Buffet. Do you see yourself this way?
JC: Jimmy Buffet. OK, I’ll take that. I get a lot of labels like “Balladeer” or “Troubadour” and I accept them gratefully. But I’m not going to come up with some shark fin dance that everybody has to do at my concerts. OK, maybe a zombie thing, but no shark fin stuff.
GG: Since Jimmy Buffet Fans are called Parrot Heads, what would you call Jonathan Coulton fans?
JC: JoCoists? Coultonistas? Half-pony, half-monkey monsters?
GG: The internet has become the bane of the music industry, yet you seem to have embraced it. Do you think you could have achieved the following you have with out it?
JC: Absolutely not. Something’s happened over the last year, and it had little to do with any of my activities in the real world. I’m well aware that what I do is pretty niche, and not that attractive to “mainstream radio” or “record labels” or “anyone with money.” The internet has allowed me to reach the pockets of people who would like my music. That’s an old story by now, but it’s no less true. Whatever success I’ve had so far would not have been possible without broadband and the mp3 format.
GG: Even if you never get a big time recording deal, do you see yourself continuing to play and produce music for the geek masses?
JC: I hope so – as long as I can stand it. At some point it may become necessary for me to get some kind of a job that makes money, when I have a midlife crisis and need to buy a sports car RIGHT AWAY. But for now I’m getting so much pleasure out of writing and playing and connecting with people, it’s hard to imagine giving it up. GG: What exactly is a Spizzsink and a Wiffenpoof?
JC: Spizzwink and Whiffenpoof. Both are a cappella singing groups at Yale where I went to college. A little dorky maybe, especially if you’ve never seen it before – you walk into a room and there’s a bunch of college guys dressed in tuxedos singing “Midnight Train to Georgia,” I can understand why you might be a little thrown. But when you’re in it, it’s such a thrill. It’s honestly one of the greatest musical experiences I’ve ever had, just singing harmony with a large group of people. And you get a lot of tail. I mean a LOT of tail. Just kidding.
If you aren’t already a fan of Jonathan Coulton’s music but you are interested in finding out more about this talented geek balladeer check out his website, www.jonathancoulton.com . From his site you can download songs, buy CD’s or get on the message forums and rub elbows with other half-pony half-monkey monsters. You can also subscribe to his Thing a Week podcast through itunes and download his latest geeky creations or subscribe to The Jonathan Coulton Project and download the fan made videos to his songs. ****Note: Since this article was originally published the Thing A Week Podcast has been discontinued. Although I do think you can still download some old episodes on itunes and ofcourse you can by Mr. Coulton’s music on itunes as well.****
Thursday, December 4, 2008
50 Reasons Why Chuck Norris is a Bad Mama Jama.....
I got his in an email and found it quite amusing so I thought I would share.
1. The first rule of Chuck Norris is: You do not talk about Chuck Norris
2. Chuck Norris can divide by zero
3. Chuck Norris did in fact build Rome in a day.
4. The chief export of Chuck Norris is pain
5. Chuck Norris counted to infinity-twice
6. When the boogey man goes to sleep every night he checks his closet for Chuck Norris
7. Chuck Norris doesn’t read books. He stares them down until he gets the information he wants. 8. Chuck Norris doesn’t wear a watch; HE decides what time it is.
9. Outer space exists because it is afraid to be on the same planet with Chuck Norris.
10. Chuck Norris is so fast he can run around the world and punch himself in the back of the head.
11. Chuck Norris uses a nightlight. Not because he is afraid of the dark but because the dark is afraid of Chuck Norris.
12. Contrary to popular belief there is indeed enough Chuck Norris to go around.
13. When Chuck Norris does a push-up, he isn’t lifting himself up; he’s pushing the Earth down. 14. If a tree falls in the forest does anybody hear? Yes. Chuck Norris hears it. Chuck Norris hears everything.
15. Chuck Norris played Russian roulette with a fully loaded gun and won.
16. Chuck Norris does not own a stove, oven or microwave because revenge is a dish best served cold.
17. If, by some incredible space-time paradox, Chuck Norris would ever fight himself, he’d win. Period.
18. When Chuck Norris was born, the only person who cried was the doctor. Never slap Chuck Norris.
19. There is no such thing as global warming. Chuck Norris was cold so he turned the sun up.
20. Ninjas want to grow up to be just like Chuck Norris. But the usually grow up just to be killed by Chuck Norris.
21. Staring at Chuck Norris for extended periods of time without proper eye protection will cause blindness and possibly feet-sized bruises on the face.
22. How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could Chuck Norris? All of it.
23. When you’re Chuck Norris, anything + anything is equal one-one roundhouse kick to the face. 24. Chuck Norris grinds his coffee with his teeth then boils the water with his own rage.
25. Chuck Norris does not “style” his hair. It lies perfectly in place out of sheer terror.
26. Lighting never strikes twice in one place because Chuck Norris is looking for it.
27. There are no such things as tornados. Chuck Norris just hates trailer parks.
28. Chuck Norris let the dogs out.
29. Chuck Norris got his driver’s license at the age of 16. Seconds.
30. Chuck Norris is not only a noun but a verb.
31. The Manhattan Project was not intended to create nuclear weapons. It was meant to recreate the destructive power in a Chuck Norris roundhouse kick. They didn’t even come close.
32. Chuck Norris will never have a heart attack. His heart isn’t nearly foolish enough to attack him.
33. Chuck Norris crossed the road. No one ever dared to question his motives.
34. Chuck Norris is the only man who has literally beaten the odds. With his fists.
35. Chuck Norris can kick through all six degrees of separation, hitting anyone, anywhere-in the face- at any time.
36. Chuck Norris can in fact “raise the roof.” And he can do it with one hand.
37. Chuck Norris knows everything there is to know – except for the definition of mercy.
38. Paper beats rock, rock beats scissors, and scissors beats paper, but Chuck Norris bets all three at the same time.
39. Chuck Norris was once in a knife fight and the knife lost.
40. If you work in an office with Chuck Norris, don’t ask him for his three-hole punch.
41. Chuck Norris does not sleep. He waits.
42. The chemical for the highly toxic cyanide ion is CN-. There are also Chuck Norris’ initials. This is not a coincidence.
43. Chuck Norris’ pulse in measured on the Richter scale.
44. Chuck Norris had a deep and abiding respect for human life- unless it gets in his way.
45. America is not a democracy, but a Chucktatorship.
46. Dinosaurs went extinct because of the Chuck Norissaurus.
47. If at first you don’t succeed, you’re not Chuck Norris.
48. Chuck Norris knows the last digit of Pi.
49. Chuck Norris can taste lies.
50. There is no chin behind Chuck Norris’ beard. There is only another fist.
1. The first rule of Chuck Norris is: You do not talk about Chuck Norris
2. Chuck Norris can divide by zero
3. Chuck Norris did in fact build Rome in a day.
4. The chief export of Chuck Norris is pain
5. Chuck Norris counted to infinity-twice
6. When the boogey man goes to sleep every night he checks his closet for Chuck Norris
7. Chuck Norris doesn’t read books. He stares them down until he gets the information he wants. 8. Chuck Norris doesn’t wear a watch; HE decides what time it is.
9. Outer space exists because it is afraid to be on the same planet with Chuck Norris.
10. Chuck Norris is so fast he can run around the world and punch himself in the back of the head.
11. Chuck Norris uses a nightlight. Not because he is afraid of the dark but because the dark is afraid of Chuck Norris.
12. Contrary to popular belief there is indeed enough Chuck Norris to go around.
13. When Chuck Norris does a push-up, he isn’t lifting himself up; he’s pushing the Earth down. 14. If a tree falls in the forest does anybody hear? Yes. Chuck Norris hears it. Chuck Norris hears everything.
15. Chuck Norris played Russian roulette with a fully loaded gun and won.
16. Chuck Norris does not own a stove, oven or microwave because revenge is a dish best served cold.
17. If, by some incredible space-time paradox, Chuck Norris would ever fight himself, he’d win. Period.
18. When Chuck Norris was born, the only person who cried was the doctor. Never slap Chuck Norris.
19. There is no such thing as global warming. Chuck Norris was cold so he turned the sun up.
20. Ninjas want to grow up to be just like Chuck Norris. But the usually grow up just to be killed by Chuck Norris.
21. Staring at Chuck Norris for extended periods of time without proper eye protection will cause blindness and possibly feet-sized bruises on the face.
22. How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could Chuck Norris? All of it.
23. When you’re Chuck Norris, anything + anything is equal one-one roundhouse kick to the face. 24. Chuck Norris grinds his coffee with his teeth then boils the water with his own rage.
25. Chuck Norris does not “style” his hair. It lies perfectly in place out of sheer terror.
26. Lighting never strikes twice in one place because Chuck Norris is looking for it.
27. There are no such things as tornados. Chuck Norris just hates trailer parks.
28. Chuck Norris let the dogs out.
29. Chuck Norris got his driver’s license at the age of 16. Seconds.
30. Chuck Norris is not only a noun but a verb.
31. The Manhattan Project was not intended to create nuclear weapons. It was meant to recreate the destructive power in a Chuck Norris roundhouse kick. They didn’t even come close.
32. Chuck Norris will never have a heart attack. His heart isn’t nearly foolish enough to attack him.
33. Chuck Norris crossed the road. No one ever dared to question his motives.
34. Chuck Norris is the only man who has literally beaten the odds. With his fists.
35. Chuck Norris can kick through all six degrees of separation, hitting anyone, anywhere-in the face- at any time.
36. Chuck Norris can in fact “raise the roof.” And he can do it with one hand.
37. Chuck Norris knows everything there is to know – except for the definition of mercy.
38. Paper beats rock, rock beats scissors, and scissors beats paper, but Chuck Norris bets all three at the same time.
39. Chuck Norris was once in a knife fight and the knife lost.
40. If you work in an office with Chuck Norris, don’t ask him for his three-hole punch.
41. Chuck Norris does not sleep. He waits.
42. The chemical for the highly toxic cyanide ion is CN-. There are also Chuck Norris’ initials. This is not a coincidence.
43. Chuck Norris’ pulse in measured on the Richter scale.
44. Chuck Norris had a deep and abiding respect for human life- unless it gets in his way.
45. America is not a democracy, but a Chucktatorship.
46. Dinosaurs went extinct because of the Chuck Norissaurus.
47. If at first you don’t succeed, you’re not Chuck Norris.
48. Chuck Norris knows the last digit of Pi.
49. Chuck Norris can taste lies.
50. There is no chin behind Chuck Norris’ beard. There is only another fist.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Everyone Got Rick Rolled
I was at work on Thanksgiving, so I completely missed this. Apparently the entire viewing audience got Rick Rolled. This just goes to show how much the internet and technology influences our lives. I actually think this is pretty funny... I hate the song, but the fact that this happened during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade is hilarious.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Superhero Larping? Except you could really get shot!
I'm a gamer and a comic book geek through and through. I love my superheroes and like many others have argued the merit of one character/power over another, rolled up and roleplayed more than a few in an attempt to get a taste of what being a superhero is like. I've even spent more than a few moments fantasizing about being a superhero, but I have never truly considered becoming one, for real. I mean who in their right mind would run around in spandex, which is very unflattering, and face down real criminals, with real guns... not me.
However, there are people in the world who are doing just that. This is the ultimate superhero LARP, playing superhero in the real world, fighting the never ending battle, which seems like it would be cool, but I just can't get past the bad guys using real guns part.
In a Rolling Stone article I found online, it appears there are more than a few people around the world that have decided to take on the role of caped crusader in their own neighborhoods. Some are even banding together and forming super teams. The avid comic book fan and major geek in me thinks this is the coolest shit I have ever heard and wants to get out there myself... well in spirit at least. The Mental Health Professional (once I get my degree and take my boards) in me finds this behavior disturbing and wonders why seemingly normal people would even consider doing something this ridiculous. Now I can tell just by reading the RS article that the characters featured in the article have had some traumas in their lives and escaped into a fantasy world, that they then merged with the real world. There is definitely some attention seeking behavior at play, but more impressive than all the psychobabble I can come up with is their unshakable belief in doing good. Their need to make the world a better place in some small way. I find that both fascinating and inspiring.
These people have taken something many of us daydream about and spend hours rolling dice to recreate, and they live it. They seem to have just a touch of Peter Pan in them, refusing to grow up, and yet still taking responsibility for their fellow man. They are trying to take the weight of the world on to their shoulders, even though no one asked them to. Are they mentally unbalanced... probably, but I can't help hoping that one of these guys will be around if I or a loved one ever needs them.
If you want to learn more about these real life Superheroes, or feel the overwhelming need to don spandex here are some links that you may find useful.
World Superhero Registry
Heroes Network
The Green Scorpion (based in Arizona)
Superhero Lives
Wolrdwide Heroes Organization
Justice Society of Justice (based in Indianapolis)
Superhero (based in Florida)
Master Legend (based in Florida)
Dark Guardian (based in New York)
Hero Gear
However, there are people in the world who are doing just that. This is the ultimate superhero LARP, playing superhero in the real world, fighting the never ending battle, which seems like it would be cool, but I just can't get past the bad guys using real guns part.
In a Rolling Stone article I found online, it appears there are more than a few people around the world that have decided to take on the role of caped crusader in their own neighborhoods. Some are even banding together and forming super teams. The avid comic book fan and major geek in me thinks this is the coolest shit I have ever heard and wants to get out there myself... well in spirit at least. The Mental Health Professional (once I get my degree and take my boards) in me finds this behavior disturbing and wonders why seemingly normal people would even consider doing something this ridiculous. Now I can tell just by reading the RS article that the characters featured in the article have had some traumas in their lives and escaped into a fantasy world, that they then merged with the real world. There is definitely some attention seeking behavior at play, but more impressive than all the psychobabble I can come up with is their unshakable belief in doing good. Their need to make the world a better place in some small way. I find that both fascinating and inspiring.
These people have taken something many of us daydream about and spend hours rolling dice to recreate, and they live it. They seem to have just a touch of Peter Pan in them, refusing to grow up, and yet still taking responsibility for their fellow man. They are trying to take the weight of the world on to their shoulders, even though no one asked them to. Are they mentally unbalanced... probably, but I can't help hoping that one of these guys will be around if I or a loved one ever needs them.
If you want to learn more about these real life Superheroes, or feel the overwhelming need to don spandex here are some links that you may find useful.
World Superhero Registry
Heroes Network
The Green Scorpion (based in Arizona)
Superhero Lives
Wolrdwide Heroes Organization
Justice Society of Justice (based in Indianapolis)
Superhero (based in Florida)
Master Legend (based in Florida)
Dark Guardian (based in New York)
Hero Gear
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