A big Genius Switch congratulations to my friends Beth & Frank on the birth of their son Connor James, who I've already nicknamed Cap'n Maverick. Mom and the Cap'n are doing well.
Quote of the Day:
"We cannot really love anybody with whom we never laugh." -Agnes Repplier
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Frozen Fenway
On a hot August afternoon, I heard that the mighty Boston University Terriers were facing off against the hated Boston College Eagles in hockey at Fenway Park on January 8, 2010. I knew at once I had to get tickets. And I did.
I apparently had forgotten, in the New York heatwave, that it might be a smidge cold. At Fenway Park. In Boston. In January. At night. Outside.
As the game approached, the harsh reality sat in. I was simply going to freeze to death.
The night of the game, I essentially piled on every article of clothing I owned and prayed that global warming would magically transform this January night into an August one. I hadn't been to Fenway since April 11, 2005, when the Red Sox got the World Series rings, so it was a bit of a homecoming.
It was flurrying snow as I walked to the park. Walking through the portal from the grandstand to my seat was like walking inside a beautiful snow globe. I have rarely seen Fenway look so beautiful. The rink was set up behind homeplate. The snow continued though the pre-game and most of the first period. I was definitely cold, but not as much as I had expected to be.
That changed as the night went on. The snow stopped and the bitter cold set in. A $7 cocoa didn't seem to help much. Luckily, BU played well and gave me many reasons to cheer, keeping the blood circulating a little bit. I loved seeing BU up on the Green Monster.
The third period saw the emergence of Sasquatch and for a few moments, the cold went away all together. I had waited 10 years to once again do a "Sasquatch-Sieve" chant, and I was going to enjoy every moment. More glee came when BU won 3-2, making our three plus hours in the stands worth it.
The night was incredibly fun and to share the experience with over 38,000 people made it even moreso. Despite the cold, I'm so glad I went and got to cheer on the alma mater.
Quote of the Day:
"Another belief of mine: That everyone else my age is an adult, whereas I am merely in disguise" -Margaret Atwood
I apparently had forgotten, in the New York heatwave, that it might be a smidge cold. At Fenway Park. In Boston. In January. At night. Outside.
As the game approached, the harsh reality sat in. I was simply going to freeze to death.
The night of the game, I essentially piled on every article of clothing I owned and prayed that global warming would magically transform this January night into an August one. I hadn't been to Fenway since April 11, 2005, when the Red Sox got the World Series rings, so it was a bit of a homecoming.
It was flurrying snow as I walked to the park. Walking through the portal from the grandstand to my seat was like walking inside a beautiful snow globe. I have rarely seen Fenway look so beautiful. The rink was set up behind homeplate. The snow continued though the pre-game and most of the first period. I was definitely cold, but not as much as I had expected to be.
That changed as the night went on. The snow stopped and the bitter cold set in. A $7 cocoa didn't seem to help much. Luckily, BU played well and gave me many reasons to cheer, keeping the blood circulating a little bit. I loved seeing BU up on the Green Monster.
The third period saw the emergence of Sasquatch and for a few moments, the cold went away all together. I had waited 10 years to once again do a "Sasquatch-Sieve" chant, and I was going to enjoy every moment. More glee came when BU won 3-2, making our three plus hours in the stands worth it.
The night was incredibly fun and to share the experience with over 38,000 people made it even moreso. Despite the cold, I'm so glad I went and got to cheer on the alma mater.
Quote of the Day:
"Another belief of mine: That everyone else my age is an adult, whereas I am merely in disguise" -Margaret Atwood
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Rock & Roll (and Bluegrass) Music
It has been an incredible month of music. September ended with seeing a taping of the Sundance channel show "Spectacle" and October ended with me attending the greatest concert I have ever been to. Let's recap...
"Spectacle" Hosted by Elvis Costello with guests Ray LaMontange, Lyle Lovett and John Prine.
My very first trek to the Apollo Theatre. My co-worker was kind enough to remember my love of Ray LaMontange and offered me tickets. I took Cheryl, my designated events buddy. It was so exciting just to feel the history of the Apollo, knowing pretty much every musician I have ever loved has walked on that stage.
Elvis Costello has always been one of those musicians to fly under my radar. When I hear one of his songs, I really like it, and then forget about him until hearing the next song. Elvis begins the show by singing a couple of his older songs and then brings out John Prine. I was woefully unfamiliar with his music, so being at the show made a great first impression. An interviewed followed and then it was Lyle Lovett's turn. I have a couple of his songs on my iTunes, but they aren't on the Most Played playlist. Hearing him perform live, however, may have changed that. As a musician he really does have an incredible presence about him. His interview followed, and it was getting to be quite late in the evening. However, the second wind came when Ray LaMontange took the stage. He is so incredible. He started with "You Are the Best Thing" and then went into "Jolene". What impresses me most is that he has this deep, gravel-like voice and during his interview with Elvis, just the most humble, mild-mannered, soft-spoken man. It just made me all the more excited for his Beacon Theatre show.
Bruce Springsteen #5
The final concert at Giants Stadium. I took the new NJ Transit train from Hoboken to Giants Stadium, which was cheap, easy and took me right there. Sure beats paying $30 and waiting in traffic to park. I met up with my friends Beth and Frank, where most of the time was spent deciding which commemorative t-shirt to buy. I departed them and headed towards my seat. It was fantastic. There really is something to be said for getting single seats. I was on the 50-yard line, three rows up. As a football fan, Giants stadium is enemy territory, but for a concert, it was quite friendly and fun.
Bruce and the E Street Band took to the stage and opened with a new song Bruce wrote for the occasion called "Wrecking Ball". It did not disappoint. Neither did the rest of the 3 hour 10 minute show. They played the entire Born in the USA album, with one of the best version of "I'm Going Down" I have ever heard. "American Land" was another highlight. At 60 years old, Bruce was still rockin' and showing no signs of age.
Here's the setlist:
Wrecking Ball
Badlands
Spirit In The Night
Outlaw Pete
Hungry Heart
Working On A Dream
Born In The USA
Cover Me
Darlington County
Working On The Highway
Downbound Train
I'm On Fire
No Surrender
Bobby Jean
I'm Goin' Down
Glory Days
Dancing In The Dark
My Hometown
Tougher Than The Rest
The Promised Land
Last to Die
Long Walk Home
The Rising
Born To Run
Raise Your Hand
The Last Time (Rolling Stones)
Waiting On A Sunny Day
Seven Nights To Rock
Kitty's Back
American Land
Jersey Girl
Steve Martin #6
Back in May, I was fortunate enough to see Ideal Man Steve Martin play a banjo bluegrass concert at a 125-seat venue. Suffice to say that Carnegie Hall was a teeny bit bigger. I went with my friend Brandon, who I had met at the previous concert. One of these days I will actually sit somewhere else besides the upper levels of Carnegie Hall, but that will have to wait for another day.
Bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley opened the show. In an conservative estimate, I think he's 150 years old. But can still sing.
But I was there to see Steve Martin and again he did not disappoint. Backed again by the Steep Canyon Rangers, Steve put on an incredible show. He could just sit and stage and do nothing and I would still pay $50 to see it. Sadly, no pics for this show. I was too high up.
Ben Folds #3
I had my tickets to see Ben Folds perform with the Boston Pops since May. I didn't exactly want to wish my summer away, but I was so excited to see him play with the Pops conducted by my beloved Keith Lockhart. Erin took the drive up to Boston with me. And our friend Jon also joined us.
Ben Folds is a genius, pure and simple. It is always a joy to see him. I had first seen him six years ago at a small Boston club. What impressed me most is that at the time, I didn't recognize a single song he performed, but still enjoyed the show nonetheless.
Obviously, this show was a much different experience. Each song was a gem and not too surprised to hear the orchestra enhancing most of the arrangements. Highlights were "Landed", "Gracie", and "Zak and Sara". Keith looked adorable in an open button-down black shirt and pants. Ben closed the show with a solo piano version of "Rockin' the Suburbs". I never thought I ever live to see the day where I yell "F***!!" in Symphony Hall.
A great time had by all and well worth the five months wait.
Rock Hall 25, Night 1 - Madison Square Garden
I was certain when I left the Billy Joel concert at Shea Stadium last year that that would be the best, most definitive concert I would ever attend. Billy, Steven Tyler, Tony Bennett, Roger Daltry and Sir Paul McCartney closing it out. The bar was set incredibly high.
The bar reached an insurmountable level on October 29th when I attended the concert celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame at Madison Square Garden.
This was a very pricey ticket, but when I first saw the lineup I knew I had to be there. I sucked it up and got a ticket via StubHub. I was in the back, but the stage was set more forward than usual and MSG is a small venue anyways.
At 7:30pm, a video highlighting the 25 years of the Hall of Fame plays. Then Tom Hanks takes to the stage (his production company, Playtone, is producing an edited version of the shows for HBO) to intro the evening. From there he introduces Jerry Lee Lewis.
It has been a life goal of mine to see Jerry Lee Lewis perform live. He is one of those performers I am in awe of. Personal history aside, he is a legendary musician. OK, so "the Killer" looks like every breath will be his last, he still sang a rockin' version of "Whole Lotta Shakin; Going On". It was one song, short and sweet, but I was more than satisfied.
Next up were Crosby, Stills and Nash. Stephen Stills looks like the Eugene Levy character in "A Mighty Wind". They opened with "Woodstock" and looking at the line-up, I realize this might be the closest I ever get to seeing a collection of caliber talent, like Woodtock. They were soon joined on the stage by Bonnie Raitt. She performed a song and went back. Jackson Browne, who I also love, sang "The Pretender" while CS&N provided background. They did the same for James Taylor during "Mexico". James stayed on stage with "Love the One Your With" The set finished with all of them singing "Teach Your Children".
Next up was Paul Simon (solo - #5). Uber-heart Paul Simon. He opened with "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes", then followed with "Me & Julio Down By the Schoolyard" and "You Can Call Me Al", one of my all-time favorite songs. Then Dion comes on to duet "The Wonderer". Dion still has an amazing voice. David Crosby and Graham Nash provided background vocals on a haunting "Here Comes the Sun". Little Anthony & the Imperials did an a cappella solo. Paul returned to the stage with Art Garfunkel (Simon & Garfunkel #4). This was the emotionally charged part of the show for me. It was a 1-2-3 punch of "The Sounds of Silence", "Mrs. Robinson" and "The Boxer", my second all-time favorite song. Only at MSG can Artie point to 7th Avenue during the lyric, "come ons from the whores on 7th Avenue". They closed with a pitch perfect "Bridge Over Troubled Water", but we wouldn't let them leave until "Cecilia" was played. It was already one of the best shows ever and it was only halfway done.
Stevie Wonder is next to take to the stage. Audio problems plagued his set some. He opened with a cover of Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind". After a couple of songs, including "Signed, Sealed, Delivered", Smokey Robinson joined him for "Tracks of My Tears". Smokey needs to lay off the Botox. John Legend joined in for "Mercy, Mercy, Me" and stayed for a cover of Michael Jackson's "The Way You Make Me Feel". Stevie is having a really hard time with MJ's passing. Next up was B.B King (#2) and Stevie doing "The Thrill is Gone". Then Sting comes out during "Higher Ground", which soon morphs into "Roxanne". One of the big highlights of the night for me was having Jeff Beck some out for "Superstition", which closed out Stevie's set.
There was a bit of a delay to set the stage or Bruce. But it was well worth it at 11:45pm when Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band (#6) came on stage, with an electric version of "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out". It only got better from there. Bruce brought out Sam Moore from Sam & Dave. They shared verses on "Hold On, I'm Coming" and "Soul Man". I was in full rock mode at this point. Those two together were magic. Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine assisted on a powerful version of "The Ghost of Tom Joad". More magic happens with John Fogerty comes on stage. I love, love, love John Fogerty and he went right into an incredible version of "Fortunate Son" and "Proud Mary". Bruce and John then pay tribute to Roy Orbison with "Oh, Pretty Woman". "Jungleland" followed and then Bruce introduced Darlene Love, who sang two songs. Tom Morello returns for "Badlands" and "London Calling".
Bruce calls for a bridge & tunnel summit. There is only one man who can unite New Jersey and Long Island. At 1am, Bruce says, "Ladies and gentlemen, the King of Long Island, Billy Joel!" This is when I go bat-crazy nuts and SuperHappyFunEllen fully emerges. How apropos that my 25th time seeing Billy Joel in person is at the 25th anniversary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame show. Billy rolls right into "You May Be Right" and "Only the Good Die Young". Bruce and Billy duet "New York State of Mind". Clarence Clemons sax solo added more than I ever thought possible for the song. For their dueting finale, they traded verses on "Born to Run". I am euphoric.
For the grand finale, Bruce, Billy, John Fogerty, Sam Moore, Darlene Love, Jackson Brown Tom Morello and Peter Wolf all sing "Your Love Keeps Lifting Me (Higher and Higher)". It is 1:30am and I am beyond awed of what I just saw.
I cannot properly expressed how appreciative I am to have seen this concert in person. I have such a tremendous respect, love and admiration for all of these gifted musicians and it was incredible to honor this music I love so very much. Can't wait to see it again on November 29th on HBO.
Quote of the Day:
"Everyone has his own specific vocation or mission in life; everyone must carry out a concrete assignment that demands fulfillment. Therein he cannot be replaced, nor can his life be repeated, thus, everyone's task is unique as his specific opportunity to". -Viktor Emil Frankl
"Spectacle" Hosted by Elvis Costello with guests Ray LaMontange, Lyle Lovett and John Prine.
My very first trek to the Apollo Theatre. My co-worker was kind enough to remember my love of Ray LaMontange and offered me tickets. I took Cheryl, my designated events buddy. It was so exciting just to feel the history of the Apollo, knowing pretty much every musician I have ever loved has walked on that stage.
Elvis Costello has always been one of those musicians to fly under my radar. When I hear one of his songs, I really like it, and then forget about him until hearing the next song. Elvis begins the show by singing a couple of his older songs and then brings out John Prine. I was woefully unfamiliar with his music, so being at the show made a great first impression. An interviewed followed and then it was Lyle Lovett's turn. I have a couple of his songs on my iTunes, but they aren't on the Most Played playlist. Hearing him perform live, however, may have changed that. As a musician he really does have an incredible presence about him. His interview followed, and it was getting to be quite late in the evening. However, the second wind came when Ray LaMontange took the stage. He is so incredible. He started with "You Are the Best Thing" and then went into "Jolene". What impresses me most is that he has this deep, gravel-like voice and during his interview with Elvis, just the most humble, mild-mannered, soft-spoken man. It just made me all the more excited for his Beacon Theatre show.
Bruce Springsteen #5
The final concert at Giants Stadium. I took the new NJ Transit train from Hoboken to Giants Stadium, which was cheap, easy and took me right there. Sure beats paying $30 and waiting in traffic to park. I met up with my friends Beth and Frank, where most of the time was spent deciding which commemorative t-shirt to buy. I departed them and headed towards my seat. It was fantastic. There really is something to be said for getting single seats. I was on the 50-yard line, three rows up. As a football fan, Giants stadium is enemy territory, but for a concert, it was quite friendly and fun.
Bruce and the E Street Band took to the stage and opened with a new song Bruce wrote for the occasion called "Wrecking Ball". It did not disappoint. Neither did the rest of the 3 hour 10 minute show. They played the entire Born in the USA album, with one of the best version of "I'm Going Down" I have ever heard. "American Land" was another highlight. At 60 years old, Bruce was still rockin' and showing no signs of age.
Here's the setlist:
Wrecking Ball
Badlands
Spirit In The Night
Outlaw Pete
Hungry Heart
Working On A Dream
Born In The USA
Cover Me
Darlington County
Working On The Highway
Downbound Train
I'm On Fire
No Surrender
Bobby Jean
I'm Goin' Down
Glory Days
Dancing In The Dark
My Hometown
Tougher Than The Rest
The Promised Land
Last to Die
Long Walk Home
The Rising
Born To Run
Raise Your Hand
The Last Time (Rolling Stones)
Waiting On A Sunny Day
Seven Nights To Rock
Kitty's Back
American Land
Jersey Girl
Steve Martin #6
Back in May, I was fortunate enough to see Ideal Man Steve Martin play a banjo bluegrass concert at a 125-seat venue. Suffice to say that Carnegie Hall was a teeny bit bigger. I went with my friend Brandon, who I had met at the previous concert. One of these days I will actually sit somewhere else besides the upper levels of Carnegie Hall, but that will have to wait for another day.
Bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley opened the show. In an conservative estimate, I think he's 150 years old. But can still sing.
But I was there to see Steve Martin and again he did not disappoint. Backed again by the Steep Canyon Rangers, Steve put on an incredible show. He could just sit and stage and do nothing and I would still pay $50 to see it. Sadly, no pics for this show. I was too high up.
Ben Folds #3
I had my tickets to see Ben Folds perform with the Boston Pops since May. I didn't exactly want to wish my summer away, but I was so excited to see him play with the Pops conducted by my beloved Keith Lockhart. Erin took the drive up to Boston with me. And our friend Jon also joined us.
Ben Folds is a genius, pure and simple. It is always a joy to see him. I had first seen him six years ago at a small Boston club. What impressed me most is that at the time, I didn't recognize a single song he performed, but still enjoyed the show nonetheless.
Obviously, this show was a much different experience. Each song was a gem and not too surprised to hear the orchestra enhancing most of the arrangements. Highlights were "Landed", "Gracie", and "Zak and Sara". Keith looked adorable in an open button-down black shirt and pants. Ben closed the show with a solo piano version of "Rockin' the Suburbs". I never thought I ever live to see the day where I yell "F***!!" in Symphony Hall.
A great time had by all and well worth the five months wait.
Rock Hall 25, Night 1 - Madison Square Garden
I was certain when I left the Billy Joel concert at Shea Stadium last year that that would be the best, most definitive concert I would ever attend. Billy, Steven Tyler, Tony Bennett, Roger Daltry and Sir Paul McCartney closing it out. The bar was set incredibly high.
The bar reached an insurmountable level on October 29th when I attended the concert celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame at Madison Square Garden.
This was a very pricey ticket, but when I first saw the lineup I knew I had to be there. I sucked it up and got a ticket via StubHub. I was in the back, but the stage was set more forward than usual and MSG is a small venue anyways.
At 7:30pm, a video highlighting the 25 years of the Hall of Fame plays. Then Tom Hanks takes to the stage (his production company, Playtone, is producing an edited version of the shows for HBO) to intro the evening. From there he introduces Jerry Lee Lewis.
It has been a life goal of mine to see Jerry Lee Lewis perform live. He is one of those performers I am in awe of. Personal history aside, he is a legendary musician. OK, so "the Killer" looks like every breath will be his last, he still sang a rockin' version of "Whole Lotta Shakin; Going On". It was one song, short and sweet, but I was more than satisfied.
Next up were Crosby, Stills and Nash. Stephen Stills looks like the Eugene Levy character in "A Mighty Wind". They opened with "Woodstock" and looking at the line-up, I realize this might be the closest I ever get to seeing a collection of caliber talent, like Woodtock. They were soon joined on the stage by Bonnie Raitt. She performed a song and went back. Jackson Browne, who I also love, sang "The Pretender" while CS&N provided background. They did the same for James Taylor during "Mexico". James stayed on stage with "Love the One Your With" The set finished with all of them singing "Teach Your Children".
Next up was Paul Simon (solo - #5). Uber-heart Paul Simon. He opened with "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes", then followed with "Me & Julio Down By the Schoolyard" and "You Can Call Me Al", one of my all-time favorite songs. Then Dion comes on to duet "The Wonderer". Dion still has an amazing voice. David Crosby and Graham Nash provided background vocals on a haunting "Here Comes the Sun". Little Anthony & the Imperials did an a cappella solo. Paul returned to the stage with Art Garfunkel (Simon & Garfunkel #4). This was the emotionally charged part of the show for me. It was a 1-2-3 punch of "The Sounds of Silence", "Mrs. Robinson" and "The Boxer", my second all-time favorite song. Only at MSG can Artie point to 7th Avenue during the lyric, "come ons from the whores on 7th Avenue". They closed with a pitch perfect "Bridge Over Troubled Water", but we wouldn't let them leave until "Cecilia" was played. It was already one of the best shows ever and it was only halfway done.
Stevie Wonder is next to take to the stage. Audio problems plagued his set some. He opened with a cover of Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind". After a couple of songs, including "Signed, Sealed, Delivered", Smokey Robinson joined him for "Tracks of My Tears". Smokey needs to lay off the Botox. John Legend joined in for "Mercy, Mercy, Me" and stayed for a cover of Michael Jackson's "The Way You Make Me Feel". Stevie is having a really hard time with MJ's passing. Next up was B.B King (#2) and Stevie doing "The Thrill is Gone". Then Sting comes out during "Higher Ground", which soon morphs into "Roxanne". One of the big highlights of the night for me was having Jeff Beck some out for "Superstition", which closed out Stevie's set.
There was a bit of a delay to set the stage or Bruce. But it was well worth it at 11:45pm when Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band (#6) came on stage, with an electric version of "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out". It only got better from there. Bruce brought out Sam Moore from Sam & Dave. They shared verses on "Hold On, I'm Coming" and "Soul Man". I was in full rock mode at this point. Those two together were magic. Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine assisted on a powerful version of "The Ghost of Tom Joad". More magic happens with John Fogerty comes on stage. I love, love, love John Fogerty and he went right into an incredible version of "Fortunate Son" and "Proud Mary". Bruce and John then pay tribute to Roy Orbison with "Oh, Pretty Woman". "Jungleland" followed and then Bruce introduced Darlene Love, who sang two songs. Tom Morello returns for "Badlands" and "London Calling".
Bruce calls for a bridge & tunnel summit. There is only one man who can unite New Jersey and Long Island. At 1am, Bruce says, "Ladies and gentlemen, the King of Long Island, Billy Joel!" This is when I go bat-crazy nuts and SuperHappyFunEllen fully emerges. How apropos that my 25th time seeing Billy Joel in person is at the 25th anniversary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame show. Billy rolls right into "You May Be Right" and "Only the Good Die Young". Bruce and Billy duet "New York State of Mind". Clarence Clemons sax solo added more than I ever thought possible for the song. For their dueting finale, they traded verses on "Born to Run". I am euphoric.
For the grand finale, Bruce, Billy, John Fogerty, Sam Moore, Darlene Love, Jackson Brown Tom Morello and Peter Wolf all sing "Your Love Keeps Lifting Me (Higher and Higher)". It is 1:30am and I am beyond awed of what I just saw.
I cannot properly expressed how appreciative I am to have seen this concert in person. I have such a tremendous respect, love and admiration for all of these gifted musicians and it was incredible to honor this music I love so very much. Can't wait to see it again on November 29th on HBO.
Quote of the Day:
"Everyone has his own specific vocation or mission in life; everyone must carry out a concrete assignment that demands fulfillment. Therein he cannot be replaced, nor can his life be repeated, thus, everyone's task is unique as his specific opportunity to". -Viktor Emil Frankl
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Random Thoughts & Ramblings
I have been gone for awhile. I'm sorry. Please forgive me. It's hard to believe another summer has come and gone. When I haven't been working (and thankfully I have been), I have been able to take advantage of some of the things the city has to offer. Let's recap....
* I was really pleased with the 10th anniversary edition of "Who Wants to Be A Millionaire" in the primetime version. Regis was at his very Regis-y best. I did feel a tremendous sense of pride seeing my name in the credits. Soon after the shows aired, there was a reunion with the folks that have worked on the show during its tenure. It was a great time catching up with old friends and meeting new ones.
* I went to a book signing with one of my favorite character actors, Wallace Shawn, who is also an accomplished playwright. He recently published a book of essays, thoughtfully titled "Essays". He didn't seem too excited to be there, and halted Q&A at one point to read another essay. Granted they weren't top notch questions, but every answer was a rambling non-answer. Still, glad I went. Always nice to do something different.
* I caught a performance of the Broadway revival of Bye Bye Birdie, starring John Stamos and Gina Gershon. I am not a huge fan of fluffy musicals, which is what Bye Bye Birdie is. The redeeming factor was Bill Irwin who was absolutely amazing. He is such a fantastic actor and he made the show just a little more bearable.
* Got to see a screening on the new Matt Damon movie "The Informer!". Very good. Highly recommend.
* The Emmy Awards. Loved Neil Patrick Harris as host. Surprisingly liked giving awards out in genre. Disappointed Neil Patrick Harris and Jack McBrayer lost to Jon Cryer. And also disappointed Jim Parsons lost to Alec Baldwin, though I love 30 Rock. John Hodgman as announcer was another nice touch. Best dressed goes to Drew Barrymore and the actress who presented with Keifer Sutherland.
* Was reunited with Howard the Cat. Howard belongs to my former Boston roommate Rebecca. I ran into her not too long ago and was elated to hear Howard was still among us and not in Kitty Heaven. Soon after, I took a drive to the New Jersey suburbs and spent time with my favorite SnuggleBunny. I'd like to think the cat remembered me, but most likely, I smelled like food.
* A big Genius Switch congratulations to my friends Heather and Aaron on the birth of their first daughter, Madeline Eileen. Can't wait to meet the little one.
* Last week I was able to attend a taping of "Spectacle" at the Apollo Theatre. I had never been to the Apollo, so that in itself was exciting. Elvis Costello hosted John Prine, Lyle Lovett and Ray LaMontange. It was an incredible evening of music. A long night, but worth it to hear top musicans, with just a microphone and a guitar.
* Lots going on in the next few weeks. Hopefully I can remember to post before too much time passes.
Quote of the Day:
"A well-spent day brings happy sleep" -Leonardo da Vinci
* I was really pleased with the 10th anniversary edition of "Who Wants to Be A Millionaire" in the primetime version. Regis was at his very Regis-y best. I did feel a tremendous sense of pride seeing my name in the credits. Soon after the shows aired, there was a reunion with the folks that have worked on the show during its tenure. It was a great time catching up with old friends and meeting new ones.
* I went to a book signing with one of my favorite character actors, Wallace Shawn, who is also an accomplished playwright. He recently published a book of essays, thoughtfully titled "Essays". He didn't seem too excited to be there, and halted Q&A at one point to read another essay. Granted they weren't top notch questions, but every answer was a rambling non-answer. Still, glad I went. Always nice to do something different.
* I caught a performance of the Broadway revival of Bye Bye Birdie, starring John Stamos and Gina Gershon. I am not a huge fan of fluffy musicals, which is what Bye Bye Birdie is. The redeeming factor was Bill Irwin who was absolutely amazing. He is such a fantastic actor and he made the show just a little more bearable.
* Got to see a screening on the new Matt Damon movie "The Informer!". Very good. Highly recommend.
* The Emmy Awards. Loved Neil Patrick Harris as host. Surprisingly liked giving awards out in genre. Disappointed Neil Patrick Harris and Jack McBrayer lost to Jon Cryer. And also disappointed Jim Parsons lost to Alec Baldwin, though I love 30 Rock. John Hodgman as announcer was another nice touch. Best dressed goes to Drew Barrymore and the actress who presented with Keifer Sutherland.
* Was reunited with Howard the Cat. Howard belongs to my former Boston roommate Rebecca. I ran into her not too long ago and was elated to hear Howard was still among us and not in Kitty Heaven. Soon after, I took a drive to the New Jersey suburbs and spent time with my favorite SnuggleBunny. I'd like to think the cat remembered me, but most likely, I smelled like food.
* A big Genius Switch congratulations to my friends Heather and Aaron on the birth of their first daughter, Madeline Eileen. Can't wait to meet the little one.
* Last week I was able to attend a taping of "Spectacle" at the Apollo Theatre. I had never been to the Apollo, so that in itself was exciting. Elvis Costello hosted John Prine, Lyle Lovett and Ray LaMontange. It was an incredible evening of music. A long night, but worth it to hear top musicans, with just a microphone and a guitar.
* Lots going on in the next few weeks. Hopefully I can remember to post before too much time passes.
Quote of the Day:
"A well-spent day brings happy sleep" -Leonardo da Vinci
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Sir Paul McCartney (Billy #23)
At Billy Joel's Last Play at Shea concert last year, I made a hearty squeal when he introduced Sir Paul McCartney to play "I Saw Her Standing There" and "Let It B'. So when it was announced that Sir Paul would be opening Citi Field with a series of concerts, I just knew I had to go.
Last night's show was amazing. I was on the field, about 15 rows back to the right. I was on the aisle and the people sitting directly to my left paid $100 more for their ticket. An Irish band called the Script opened and they were quite good. Sir Paul took to the stage a little before 9pm performing "Drive My Car". He sounded amazing and right off the bat, we all knew we were in for a great evening of music.
About 20 minutes in the rain started. Not about to pay $10 for a plastic poncho, I allowed myself to get drenched. But there was something oddly serene standing in the rain listening to Paul and a guitar and "Blackbird".
The rain kept on for most of the show, but stopped in time for "Live and Let Die", with an incredible fire and fireworks display.
But for me, the highlight was during the encore when Billy Joel was introduced to open Citi FIeld with Sir Paul and again played " I Saw Her Standing There". SuperHappyFunEllen briefly emerged and I was rockin' along.
All and all a two and a half hour show by one of the most important artists of my time. I felt so incredibly lucky to have been there.
Some pics from the show:
Quote of the Day:
"Everybody's gonna dance tonight / Everyone's gonna feel alright" -Sir Paul McCartney "Dance Tonight"
Last night's show was amazing. I was on the field, about 15 rows back to the right. I was on the aisle and the people sitting directly to my left paid $100 more for their ticket. An Irish band called the Script opened and they were quite good. Sir Paul took to the stage a little before 9pm performing "Drive My Car". He sounded amazing and right off the bat, we all knew we were in for a great evening of music.
About 20 minutes in the rain started. Not about to pay $10 for a plastic poncho, I allowed myself to get drenched. But there was something oddly serene standing in the rain listening to Paul and a guitar and "Blackbird".
The rain kept on for most of the show, but stopped in time for "Live and Let Die", with an incredible fire and fireworks display.
But for me, the highlight was during the encore when Billy Joel was introduced to open Citi FIeld with Sir Paul and again played " I Saw Her Standing There". SuperHappyFunEllen briefly emerged and I was rockin' along.
All and all a two and a half hour show by one of the most important artists of my time. I felt so incredibly lucky to have been there.
Some pics from the show:
Quote of the Day:
"Everybody's gonna dance tonight / Everyone's gonna feel alright" -Sir Paul McCartney "Dance Tonight"
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Steve Martin #5
It's been about a year and a half since I last saw my Ideal Man, Steve Martin in person, and after tonight it was definitely worth the wait. Tonight's event took me to New York's Rubin Museum of Art, to see Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers perform bluegrass music.
A few months ago, Steve Martin released a CD of his own banjo compositions called "the Crow", an excellent CD in my completely unbiased option.
I was third in line. The event was held in a small auditorium, seating no more than 125 people. I had a close center seat. Steve and the band came out. No microphones, just acoustic music. The whole evening was so peaceful and joyful. Of course Steve was hilarious, spitting out one-liners in between songs. The music was fantastic. The 90 minute show went by entirely too quickly.
We weren't supposed to take pictures, but I was able to sneak a couple of flash-less ones.
Once again Steve Martin showed once again why he is my Ideal Man.
Quote of the Day:
"My wife titled this one. It's called 'When are you going to stop playing that goddamn banjo!'" -Steve Martin
A few months ago, Steve Martin released a CD of his own banjo compositions called "the Crow", an excellent CD in my completely unbiased option.
I was third in line. The event was held in a small auditorium, seating no more than 125 people. I had a close center seat. Steve and the band came out. No microphones, just acoustic music. The whole evening was so peaceful and joyful. Of course Steve was hilarious, spitting out one-liners in between songs. The music was fantastic. The 90 minute show went by entirely too quickly.
We weren't supposed to take pictures, but I was able to sneak a couple of flash-less ones.
Once again Steve Martin showed once again why he is my Ideal Man.
Quote of the Day:
"My wife titled this one. It's called 'When are you going to stop playing that goddamn banjo!'" -Steve Martin
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Wedding Crasher
OK, so I wasn't technically invited to my "Millionaire" co-worker, and friend, Nate's wedding. But he did say if I just happened to be strolling around Central Park around 1pm, that mabe I would stumble across something.
Lo and behold, I just happened to find Nate about to get married to his longtime girlfriend Stacy. I had intended to stay from a distance and watch from afar, but Nate was kind enough to let me watch up close. It was such a great wedding. Our friend Brandon officiated. There were no bridesmaids, no groomsmen. Just two people in love getting married in a simple, low-key ceremony amongst their loved ones.
I stuck around for a little bit longer while they took photos. While everyone went off to the reception, I spent the rest of the day getting lost in Central Park. A truly ideal day.
Congratulations and much love always Nate and Stacy!
Quote of the Day:
"If you live to be a hundred, I want to lve to be a hundred minus one day, so I'll never have to live without you." -Winnie the Pooh
Lo and behold, I just happened to find Nate about to get married to his longtime girlfriend Stacy. I had intended to stay from a distance and watch from afar, but Nate was kind enough to let me watch up close. It was such a great wedding. Our friend Brandon officiated. There were no bridesmaids, no groomsmen. Just two people in love getting married in a simple, low-key ceremony amongst their loved ones.
I stuck around for a little bit longer while they took photos. While everyone went off to the reception, I spent the rest of the day getting lost in Central Park. A truly ideal day.
Congratulations and much love always Nate and Stacy!
Quote of the Day:
"If you live to be a hundred, I want to lve to be a hundred minus one day, so I'll never have to live without you." -Winnie the Pooh
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)