So of you may know, my chosen professional football team is the Oakland Raiders. (sure, I was a big fan of the 85 Bears and for a few years after) But the player that actually got me interested in football was a Raider. His name you may ask? Jack Tatum. He wrote a book that my local library was fortunate enough to carry called "They Call Me Assassin". Something about that book finally made football click in my head and I got it. I honestly can say without that book, I don't know if I would have ever gotten into football as much as I have. What does that have to do with Mr. Davis? Hang tough my reader, this will come soon enough.
One thing Jack (pardon me being familiar with Mr Tatum here) mentioned was how his team was owned by a man named Al Davis. It was very obvious, very quickly that Mr. Davis ran his team and made the decisions (according to Jack anyway). And the knowledge Mr. Davis had about football, his team and what he wanted that team to do. After I finished that book, I was lucky enough to find a book by Jack's coach, John Madden. Again, one very large figure in John's book (One Knee Equals Two Feet) was Mr. Davis. It was kind of hard to realize how one person could have so much involvement on a team and it still be good. If you follow professional football, you can see how bad an owner can be with Jerry Jones of the Dallas Cowboys. (Who, BTW, in my opinion, wants to be Mr. Davis so bad he can't stand it)
I learned about so many characters in those books. "Dr Death", "Snake" and "The Mad Stork" among others. And the great thing was, they were allowed to be themselves (and maybe a few other people) by the man who hired and paid them. He was as much a character as his players. Ever heard of an owner just moving his team after the league head office said he couldn't? Let me introduce you to the Los Angeles Raiders. And then when he decided to move the team back to the original town, do you think the head office would allow it? Oh no, but you can go buy an Oakland Raiders shirt online anytime. When a Heisman Trophy winning running back decided he wanted to play pro baseball instead of football, it was a big deal. So when this running back didn't show up for the team that originally drafted him (Tampa Bay), everybody thought his football career was over. Not Mr. Davis, who proceeded to draft the rights to Bo Jackson in the 5th round of the draft the following year. I remember hearing laughs and jokes about that decision, how it was a wasted draft pic. Once again, Mr. Davis proved "everybody" wrong again. Bo Jackson was a stud running back during his all to brief football career. Still holds a record for 2 runs of 90+ yards, which still hasn't been broken to this day. (I, like most people, think if Bo hadn't been injured, he and Barry Sanders would have been the great running backs of the late 80s and 90s) Another team had a quarterback who "couldn't win" after a stellar college career. They traded him off and Mr. Davis worked some of his magic again. Jim Plunkett ended up winning a Super Bowl for Mr. Davis. A "washed up" tight end who's hands weren't good enough to catch a ball anymore? Hello starting guard for 2 years. I think the last great Mr. Davis move was him trading a head coach (never heard of that one before) and getting 2 first round draft picks, 2 second round draft picks AND eight million dollars.
Of course, Mr. Davis' moves didn't sit well with the league office and his team was seemingly punished via obscure "penalties" (the so called "tuck game") and the changing of the rules of the game. One receiver was know for using a product called "stickum" to help him catch the ball. Stickum was eventually declared illegal in the NFL. The Raider DBs were know for being aggressive against opponents wide receivers and not letting them get off the line clean. Now the receivers can not be touched for the first 5 yards. Not to say that my team didn't deserve the bulk of the penalties that were called. Some calls were just... influenced. As when a certain other city's team refused to have the police protect the referees if they made the right call. So, the referees fearing for their life and health, let that other team pick up an incomplete pass and run it in for a touchdown.
Anyway, back to the point of all this. Mr. Davis passed away this morning, after a long illness. He was 82, had been in obvious poor health for many years. Even having to use a walker to get around. He made some... less than stellar choices in his later years of players, coaches (and firing of coaches) and direction for the team. And while some of these decisions might have confused those of us on the outside, one thing remained unchanging on the inside of the Raiders organization. Mr. Davis wanted to win and would do whatever he thought he needed to so his team could win. Back in 1971, Mr. Davis had Jack Tatum drafted in the first round to replace a retiring Dave Grayson. Jack eventually wrote a book about his life, experiences and outlook that was eventually bought by someone at the Clinton Library. One day around 1983 or 84, I happened to pick that book up. Without Mr. Davis' choices and decisions, I may not be the fan or person I am today. Quite the impact for someone who never had the honor of meeting Mr. Davis. Thank you, Mr. Davis, Rest in Peace.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Thor 2011 Movie Review
Thor (2011) Movie Review
The Short:
It's really, really good. 3 to 3.5 out of 5 Mjolnirs.
Good acting, has a "godly" epic feel to it and a good introduction to Thor for those not in the know. It's not square with either the "regular" Marvel books nor the "Ultimate" line (Thank God for that) and there are nitpicks but only for the more hardcore fans.
The Long: (Our usual SPOILERS tag goes here. Don't read unless you want the movie spoiled for you.)
Don't worry, this won't be as long as my review of "Star Trek" from 2009.
Story of Thor, former Norse god of thunder turned super hero. Thor is a headstrong young godling who is about to become king of Asgard (home of the Norse gods). Somebody (it's REALLY not hard to figure out who) helps some Frost Giants sneak in and almost steal a treasure (The Casket of Winters for those that might know what it is). The giants get stopped, Thor gets angry because Odin (his father) won't attack the giants back. Thor and friends invade, actually do quite a bit of damage before being hauled out by Odin. Because Thor won't give it up and has broken a peace treaty, Odin sends him to Earth (aka "Midgard") without his powers and magic hammer. Thor is rightly played as an arrogant jerk @$$ who just wants to eat, drink and bust heads. He's arrogant, short of temper and ready for a fight. So he arrives on Earth and learns some lessons. Odin falls into the Odin Sleep (which rejuvenates his power, something I don't think was ever mentioned in the movie) and Loki learns he's not Odin's actual son and assumes the throne. Thor's friends eventually come to Earth to bring him back and Loki sends the Destroyer (big metal Iron man looking thing) to kill Thor. Eventually, Thor gets his powers back, defeats the Destroyer, makes it back to Asgard, defeats Loki, wakes big daddy Odin up and saves the day (like you didn't see that one coming LOL)
We have some really good acting here. I was very much afraid and disappointed with the role of Odin was taken from Brian Blessed and given Anthony Hopkins. (what? upset when given to an Oscar winner from somebody you've never heard of?) Blessed was one of two actors I mentally cast as Odin (ironically, my other choice Stellan Skarsgard, is also in the movie as Jayne Foster's mentor). Hopkins however, actually does some acting here, gets a padded suit and some inserts. And damned if he doesn't pull it off. Hemworth (who played Captain Kirk's father in the 09 Trek movie and my choice to actually play Kirk in that movie) does a fine job of Thor, even without his Asgardian-speak. He goes from arrogant boy to sad teenager to wiser but slightly sadder man all in about 2 hours. Natalie Portman is fine as Jane Foster, who is now a theoretical physicist (and finally looks like a grown woman rather than a 12 year old). Loki actually underplayed by Tom Hiddleson for the most part. As the movie progresses, we see more yelling and carrying on like we would expect from a whiny little girl like Loki but he never does the total "over the top" bit.
Asgard looked much better than I thought it would. The Rainbow Bridge actually looks like one, even with the weird "observatory" thing at the end of it. We get to see some great things in short bits, Gungnir, Slepnir, something from the post credit scene that should make Marvel comics fans happy. Gee, I wonder who that guy who grabs a bow and answers to "Barton" is...??? Hmmm.... We get some set up for the coming Avengers movie which thankfully doesn't adversely affect this movie. Two great cameos (Stan Lee & Walt Simonson YEAH Simonson! They got that one right) and one.. well see below. It's actually pretty family friendly for the most part. All those swords, daggers and hammers flying around and I don't recall that much blood flowing from the wounds (though some on the people who were fighting). Oh, and the guy playing Laufey (king of the frost giants) does really good also, very creepy. Mean but understandable, I thought. And we get pronunciations of lots of Norse things that are rather hard to pronounce (I'll still continue to pronounce Mjolnir as Moe-yawn-er rather than Mowl-yer. Habit) And while it's not the Mjolnir I would have used, it's pretty darn close. (one of the few characters that getting his weapon right is more important that the uniform, I guess).
Now, we go to the things I didn't like. LOL Don't worry, I'm actually going to do this quickly.
Odin didn't loose his eye fighting with frost giants (as if a lowly giant could take Odin's eye), Loki knew he wasn't Odin's son from quite early, where was Baldar (sequel I guess). And while I would like to have seen Skurge and the Enchantress, it would have been too many characters. One cameo by the "writer" of the worst run on Thor ever! (Tell me, was Roy Thomas busy? Tom DeFalco? Ron Frenz? Dan Jurgens? Heck, JRjr? All people who did more and did it better than that hack who's name I will not mention.) I hate, hate, hate Nick Fury being replaced by Samuel L Jackson. Just change the name or better yet, get somebody who was cool a decade ago and is now best know for crap like "Snakes on a Plane". (I've just been over SLJ for a long time now. You may love it and enjoy it for me if you do) And why does Hogun's accent reminded me of the old "Excuse Please" Charlie Chan movies. The guy playing him did ok with what he had but there wasn't much.
Yeah, most of if not all of these go under the heading of "nit picking" and I know that. It's why I didn't go on and on about them. I've found that going into a movie you hope to like with NO expectations is the best way to enjoy it. For me, if nothing else, that works.
PS: One thing or rather person, I would love to see in the Avengers movie is Henry Peter Gyrich. If you know who he is, you'll understand. If not, don't worry about it.
The Short:
It's really, really good. 3 to 3.5 out of 5 Mjolnirs.
Good acting, has a "godly" epic feel to it and a good introduction to Thor for those not in the know. It's not square with either the "regular" Marvel books nor the "Ultimate" line (Thank God for that) and there are nitpicks but only for the more hardcore fans.
The Long: (Our usual SPOILERS tag goes here. Don't read unless you want the movie spoiled for you.)
Don't worry, this won't be as long as my review of "Star Trek" from 2009.
Story of Thor, former Norse god of thunder turned super hero. Thor is a headstrong young godling who is about to become king of Asgard (home of the Norse gods). Somebody (it's REALLY not hard to figure out who) helps some Frost Giants sneak in and almost steal a treasure (The Casket of Winters for those that might know what it is). The giants get stopped, Thor gets angry because Odin (his father) won't attack the giants back. Thor and friends invade, actually do quite a bit of damage before being hauled out by Odin. Because Thor won't give it up and has broken a peace treaty, Odin sends him to Earth (aka "Midgard") without his powers and magic hammer. Thor is rightly played as an arrogant jerk @$$ who just wants to eat, drink and bust heads. He's arrogant, short of temper and ready for a fight. So he arrives on Earth and learns some lessons. Odin falls into the Odin Sleep (which rejuvenates his power, something I don't think was ever mentioned in the movie) and Loki learns he's not Odin's actual son and assumes the throne. Thor's friends eventually come to Earth to bring him back and Loki sends the Destroyer (big metal Iron man looking thing) to kill Thor. Eventually, Thor gets his powers back, defeats the Destroyer, makes it back to Asgard, defeats Loki, wakes big daddy Odin up and saves the day (like you didn't see that one coming LOL)
We have some really good acting here. I was very much afraid and disappointed with the role of Odin was taken from Brian Blessed and given Anthony Hopkins. (what? upset when given to an Oscar winner from somebody you've never heard of?) Blessed was one of two actors I mentally cast as Odin (ironically, my other choice Stellan Skarsgard, is also in the movie as Jayne Foster's mentor). Hopkins however, actually does some acting here, gets a padded suit and some inserts. And damned if he doesn't pull it off. Hemworth (who played Captain Kirk's father in the 09 Trek movie and my choice to actually play Kirk in that movie) does a fine job of Thor, even without his Asgardian-speak. He goes from arrogant boy to sad teenager to wiser but slightly sadder man all in about 2 hours. Natalie Portman is fine as Jane Foster, who is now a theoretical physicist (and finally looks like a grown woman rather than a 12 year old). Loki actually underplayed by Tom Hiddleson for the most part. As the movie progresses, we see more yelling and carrying on like we would expect from a whiny little girl like Loki but he never does the total "over the top" bit.
Asgard looked much better than I thought it would. The Rainbow Bridge actually looks like one, even with the weird "observatory" thing at the end of it. We get to see some great things in short bits, Gungnir, Slepnir, something from the post credit scene that should make Marvel comics fans happy. Gee, I wonder who that guy who grabs a bow and answers to "Barton" is...??? Hmmm.... We get some set up for the coming Avengers movie which thankfully doesn't adversely affect this movie. Two great cameos (Stan Lee & Walt Simonson YEAH Simonson! They got that one right) and one.. well see below. It's actually pretty family friendly for the most part. All those swords, daggers and hammers flying around and I don't recall that much blood flowing from the wounds (though some on the people who were fighting). Oh, and the guy playing Laufey (king of the frost giants) does really good also, very creepy. Mean but understandable, I thought. And we get pronunciations of lots of Norse things that are rather hard to pronounce (I'll still continue to pronounce Mjolnir as Moe-yawn-er rather than Mowl-yer. Habit) And while it's not the Mjolnir I would have used, it's pretty darn close. (one of the few characters that getting his weapon right is more important that the uniform, I guess).
Now, we go to the things I didn't like. LOL Don't worry, I'm actually going to do this quickly.
Odin didn't loose his eye fighting with frost giants (as if a lowly giant could take Odin's eye), Loki knew he wasn't Odin's son from quite early, where was Baldar (sequel I guess). And while I would like to have seen Skurge and the Enchantress, it would have been too many characters. One cameo by the "writer" of the worst run on Thor ever! (Tell me, was Roy Thomas busy? Tom DeFalco? Ron Frenz? Dan Jurgens? Heck, JRjr? All people who did more and did it better than that hack who's name I will not mention.) I hate, hate, hate Nick Fury being replaced by Samuel L Jackson. Just change the name or better yet, get somebody who was cool a decade ago and is now best know for crap like "Snakes on a Plane". (I've just been over SLJ for a long time now. You may love it and enjoy it for me if you do) And why does Hogun's accent reminded me of the old "Excuse Please" Charlie Chan movies. The guy playing him did ok with what he had but there wasn't much.
Yeah, most of if not all of these go under the heading of "nit picking" and I know that. It's why I didn't go on and on about them. I've found that going into a movie you hope to like with NO expectations is the best way to enjoy it. For me, if nothing else, that works.
PS: One thing or rather person, I would love to see in the Avengers movie is Henry Peter Gyrich. If you know who he is, you'll understand. If not, don't worry about it.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Waiting Rooms and the relationships that happen there
So, for those of you that don't know, I recently spent some time at a hospital waiting room. My Mother had emergency surgery last Thursday March 3rd. My Father, Sister and I (Niece in and out at times) spent most of that following Friday and weekend in the Critical Care Waiting Area of the hospital. Just some background, you get 5 visits a day when someone is in the CCU. 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5.30pm and 7.30 pm. (guess those times kind of burned into my brain, huh?) And then the rest of the time, you spend either waiting or making plans on what to do after the next visit. Waiting. What an ugly word. And such a waste of time. Waiting. You can read, watch tv, listen to music, talk and sleep, among other things. But it seems like always, there is more time to wait. I would also add, talk and text on your phone. Let me tell you something, I have some damn awesome friends. Wonderful messages of support and, well, love I'll not soon forget. The one that really got to me was one that said, "You name it, it is done". Not "what do you need" or "when I can", but just name it. I can't express how much that one message and friend touched my heart. But, back to our subject.
You wait. You see the same people over and over. I started calling them "my fellow survivors". Sometimes you strike up conversations with these people, sometimes it's a respectful distance. There were two groups in particular. One was an older gentleman, I would guess about 60 or so. Nice guy, his wife was in the CCU. I never did find out what for. And there was another group that my Dad got to know. (My Dad has never met a stranger, let me tell you) I don't know any of their names or their backgrounds. But, much like friends who have gone through experiences together, we had a bond. And with that bond, shared compassion. Not once did anyone show rudeness or insensitivity towards one another. Not to say we all song "Kumbaya" every night or held each other during the waiting between visits. But we would see each other in the halls and I would usually nod at them. They would acknowledge, maybe smile back or wave. But like I said, we had that bond. We were all waiting. I remember running into the gentleman I mentioned earlier after my Mother had been released to a room. We talked for a minute and I asked how his wife was doing. He said they hoped to be in a room in the next day or so. Told him I would keep his family in my thoughts and prayers, he thanked me and I got on the elevator. And, not meaning to, I went back to "my life". I don't know if his wife got better or if they are home. I hope so, I hope all the people who's lives crossed in that waiting room are home with loved ones getting better. The realist in me doubts it, but the optimist says to believe. I'm trying to let the optimist win this one.
Now, back to the messages from friends and family I/we received. So many well wishers, some family I didn't recognize but thanked them all the same. One member of my family I hadn't spoken to in a few years reached out. I like to think that was meant to happen. Not the sickness so much but that God used that sickness to help heal old wounds. It makes me feel better and believe that this crazy old universe has some reason to it. I personally got messages from as far away as Nashville, Memphis and Chattanooga. And I truly believe that if I had asked, any of those people that were medically able to make it, would have been there. I'm not a big "lean on someone's shoulder" type. Guess I'm more the classical male role and being stoic. Which leads me to my next "story".
Spent that Friday night at the hospital, which made Saturday a long, dull, boring day. Had talked to someone who had made a big deal about "if I needed them". Went on and on about it. Could have seen a friendly face and the hospital was on their way home. I was going to tell them, "you don't have to meet my family or anything, I'll come out. Just would like a hug and to see a friendly face". So, in a moment of weakness, I called them. Went to VM, but since they were at work that wasn't much of a surprise. Left a message and asked them to call. So I waited. As the time passed, I went out to my car to charge my phone and hopefully meet my "friend". This being me telling this story, you know what happened. Never heard from them. Couldn't believe it. When I talked to them later they told me that they had turned their phone off and thought I would call their house. Really? I'm kind of confused about calling someone and telling them if they need anything to call and then turning the phone off. Seems counter productive to me.... Maybe I'm a jerk, but that was pretty much the final coffin in the nail for this "friendship". Just a suggestion folks, if you call someone to be there for them, don't turn your phone off.
So, I guess I'll wrap this mess up. Before you ask, my Mother is doing well. Healing, but it's going to take time. Like 6 months worth. I didn't realize how major this surgery was until the doctor explained it to me. She's coming right along, seems like every day she does better. Family is pretty much back to what passes for normal to us. Let me tell you something my friends, when you go through things like this, you find things out. Things like "who your friends are", "who the good people in your life are", and I would add you find out what you really believe (faith, religion). I won't preach to you here, it's neither the time, place or subject. But trust me, you think about things like that. And, hopefully, you find answers that comfort you.
My thanks to so many of you that offered support via whatever method of delivery. I/we appreciated every one of them. And let me suggest this to anyone that might need this lesson. If you feel like you might need to reconnect with someone, there is never a better time to offer support. No, they may not accept it, but remember the stress that person might be under. And, in my book, it makes you a better person for trying. Let that strength out, we need more of it in this world.
As always, be good to yourselves.
You wait. You see the same people over and over. I started calling them "my fellow survivors". Sometimes you strike up conversations with these people, sometimes it's a respectful distance. There were two groups in particular. One was an older gentleman, I would guess about 60 or so. Nice guy, his wife was in the CCU. I never did find out what for. And there was another group that my Dad got to know. (My Dad has never met a stranger, let me tell you) I don't know any of their names or their backgrounds. But, much like friends who have gone through experiences together, we had a bond. And with that bond, shared compassion. Not once did anyone show rudeness or insensitivity towards one another. Not to say we all song "Kumbaya" every night or held each other during the waiting between visits. But we would see each other in the halls and I would usually nod at them. They would acknowledge, maybe smile back or wave. But like I said, we had that bond. We were all waiting. I remember running into the gentleman I mentioned earlier after my Mother had been released to a room. We talked for a minute and I asked how his wife was doing. He said they hoped to be in a room in the next day or so. Told him I would keep his family in my thoughts and prayers, he thanked me and I got on the elevator. And, not meaning to, I went back to "my life". I don't know if his wife got better or if they are home. I hope so, I hope all the people who's lives crossed in that waiting room are home with loved ones getting better. The realist in me doubts it, but the optimist says to believe. I'm trying to let the optimist win this one.
Now, back to the messages from friends and family I/we received. So many well wishers, some family I didn't recognize but thanked them all the same. One member of my family I hadn't spoken to in a few years reached out. I like to think that was meant to happen. Not the sickness so much but that God used that sickness to help heal old wounds. It makes me feel better and believe that this crazy old universe has some reason to it. I personally got messages from as far away as Nashville, Memphis and Chattanooga. And I truly believe that if I had asked, any of those people that were medically able to make it, would have been there. I'm not a big "lean on someone's shoulder" type. Guess I'm more the classical male role and being stoic. Which leads me to my next "story".
Spent that Friday night at the hospital, which made Saturday a long, dull, boring day. Had talked to someone who had made a big deal about "if I needed them". Went on and on about it. Could have seen a friendly face and the hospital was on their way home. I was going to tell them, "you don't have to meet my family or anything, I'll come out. Just would like a hug and to see a friendly face". So, in a moment of weakness, I called them. Went to VM, but since they were at work that wasn't much of a surprise. Left a message and asked them to call. So I waited. As the time passed, I went out to my car to charge my phone and hopefully meet my "friend". This being me telling this story, you know what happened. Never heard from them. Couldn't believe it. When I talked to them later they told me that they had turned their phone off and thought I would call their house. Really? I'm kind of confused about calling someone and telling them if they need anything to call and then turning the phone off. Seems counter productive to me.... Maybe I'm a jerk, but that was pretty much the final coffin in the nail for this "friendship". Just a suggestion folks, if you call someone to be there for them, don't turn your phone off.
So, I guess I'll wrap this mess up. Before you ask, my Mother is doing well. Healing, but it's going to take time. Like 6 months worth. I didn't realize how major this surgery was until the doctor explained it to me. She's coming right along, seems like every day she does better. Family is pretty much back to what passes for normal to us. Let me tell you something my friends, when you go through things like this, you find things out. Things like "who your friends are", "who the good people in your life are", and I would add you find out what you really believe (faith, religion). I won't preach to you here, it's neither the time, place or subject. But trust me, you think about things like that. And, hopefully, you find answers that comfort you.
My thanks to so many of you that offered support via whatever method of delivery. I/we appreciated every one of them. And let me suggest this to anyone that might need this lesson. If you feel like you might need to reconnect with someone, there is never a better time to offer support. No, they may not accept it, but remember the stress that person might be under. And, in my book, it makes you a better person for trying. Let that strength out, we need more of it in this world.
As always, be good to yourselves.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Hidden Gems Vol 1
So I've had this idea for a while now, a group of posting called Hidden Gems. It's about bringing to your attention movies, books, music and whatever else I think needs some love. In my mind, these things are usually not as well known to the rest of the world, but (as I found out this week) they might better known than I thought. That being said, in honor of Labor Day, here is our inaugural "Hidden Gem".
Let met take you back, wayyy back. Somewhere in 1988, back after Metallica had released their last great album, "....And Justice For All". They came to Knoxville on tour and I went to see them with some new friends. I remember the opening band was Queens... somebody. Never heard of them, besides, nobody pays attention to the opening band, right? This little band, however, blew me away. I remember thinking it was the best opening band I had ever seen and heard. (And then Metallica came out and I pretty much forgot about the opening band for a while...) Somewhere I'm going to call Summer of 88, there was a new song I was hearing/seeing on MTV. "Eyes of a Stranger" by Queens... somebody. Hey, wait, that was the band that opened for Metallica. Song was really good. I remember come payday, going and picking up the cassette (showing my age here) and proceeding to wear it out until it broke. Turns out, that little "opening band" was much better than I thought.
Operation: Mindcrime by Queensrÿche (1988)
Wiki tells us that Mindcrime was released in May of 88. The story is that this is a rock opera about a disillusioned "angry young man" named Nikki. Nikki, like a lot of us at the time, didn't care for the power structure of our then current government. (being 18 at the time, suddenly the seeing our country/world wasn't the happy little cloud that most kids think, I agreed with him. Though I didn't consider assassination as a productive way to cause social change.) Nikki falls in with a group lead by a man known as "Dr. X". Using brainwashing and drugs, Dr. X brings Nikki under his control and uses him as an assassin. Nikki ends up meeting a former prostitute turned nun called "Sister Mary" and falling in love with her. Nikki is eventually ordered to kill Mary and her priest "Father William". Nikki indeed kills William (mostly because Father William had been having sex with Mary) but is unable to kill Mary due to his love for her. Nikki & Mary decide to leave the group and Nikki goes to tell Dr X. Nikki is reminded by Dr. X that he (Nikki) is an addict and only Dr. X can give him his fix. Nikki "walks around in circles" for a while and when he comes home, Mary has been killed. Strangled with her own rosary and Nikki unsure if he did it. The police find him, arrest him for Mary's and the other murders he had done. They then take him to the hospital, there Nikki looks into the "Eyes of a Stranger".
You know, all typed out like that, it's a bit more predictable than it on an album. Let's just say I don't do it justice in my description. Being a single, angry young man myself when it came out, this album just spoke to me in ways that only one other album had before. (Pink Floyd's The Wall, if you are interested) And it's an incredible album even without the storyline. Geoff Tate has such a great, strong voice as he assumes the role of Nikki. The twin guitar attack of Chris DeGarmo & Michael Wilton with bass by Eddie Jackson bring all the guitars to the fore. And IMO, their other strongest asset, the powerful, complex drumming of Scott Rockenfield. (That has got to be the best name for a drummer, ever!)
I ended up buying 2 cassettes of the album along with 2 cds. A VHS tape with a mini concert and a selection of videos and, different for the time, a dual VHS/Cd box set concert called "Operation: LiveCrime". I tell you, this was one of the greatest albums I have ever heard. I don't think I've ever heard anybody that has listened to it that didn't like it. Yes, it's metal so some people (for some unfathomable reason) don't like metal. And it's a bit political but without not having specific targets (ie no Regan or King George the first bashing). I realize as older man now, it's probably one of those things that hit me at the right time. I think I would have like it no matter what, but given my own political apathy and disgust, it just rang true to me and I identified with it. (again, not to the killing point!) Remember, this was the era of "Iran Contra" and the like. My generation, if they didn't already know it, was seeing that our government could be as corrupt as any other. That we weren't the White Knight Heroes that we thought we were. Or at least, that's how it was for me. Let me tell you, I listened to this album for years. Rock magazine Kerrang! named it the #34 greatest heavy metal album of all time. Very much worth checking out if you have the time, even if it might seem a bit dated. That's ok, because we now have...
Operation: Mindcrime 2 (2006)
Watching VH1 Classic one afternoon, I noticed the fellows from Queensryche talking about their new album. I had lost touch with them musically over the years, so I watched it for a while. Well, guess what? They had recorded and were about to release a sequel to Operation: Mindcrime. As I listened to the interview, I began to question the logic of this. Over the years, we've all seen some really bad sequels to once great franchises. (Yes, I'm talking about george lucas among others here...., though George Romero has yet to equal himself with his original zombie trilogy) I knew no matter what I thought or wanted, it was coming out so I had just better accept it. So as the show wrapped up, they played the first video off the album (for the first time, I think). A song called "I'm American" and it was pretty good. So I had hope...
Operation: Mindcrime 2 (or II, if you prefer) was indeed a worthy successor. This time, the album opened with Nikki being released from prison. Nikki still hates politics almost as much as he hates Dr. X, who has become rich and powerful. Nikki again runs afoul of the law and ends up in a court where the judge and jury remember him from before (crimes from Mindcrime 1). On the run, he has a vision of Mary who ends up giving Nikki the idea to kill Dr. X. Nikki eventually meets up with Dr. X and after a confrontation, Nikki kills X. This, however, doesn't give him the peace he thought it would. In and out of drug highs, he again has a vision of Mary who suggest he kill himself. As the album ends, we hear Nikki & Mary both profess the they only time they were happy was with each other.
The lady who sang Mary's parts is named Pamela Moore and let me tell you, she puts on a show here. In Mindcrime 1, we had the duet "Suite Sister Mary" that was usually left out of live shows (until the Empire tour, that is). Here we have Pamela & Geoff alternating in multiple songs, her voice being on par with Geoff's being no average feat. And this time, the role of Dr. X is played by Metal Legend Ronnie James Dio who also has a duet with Geoff in "The Chase". (and no, it's not a lovey dovey duet. Two great voices in metal going at each other vocally. You might have seen the video I linked to on Facebook of them doing it live. Just simple greatness.) The album ends seemingly with Nikki dead due to suicide (I'm guessing drug overdose) and hopefully, at peace. Maybe with Mary in the afterlife if the last song, "All The Promises" is any reliable guide.
Where as Mindcrime 1 was about angry young men, Mindcrime 2 is more about feeling (Nikki's) life gone wrong by bad choices. Again, this album echoed what was going on in my personal life at the time. Not that I felt that much of my life had gone wrong, but I'm guessing like most people, I expected more from it. And unlike Nikki, at least through most of the album, I don't blame someone (Dr. X) for all the mistakes of my life. All those bad decisions? I made them, maybe with bad advise but I made them. Still, I can see the appeal of that mindset. As Dr. X/RJD sings, "Pride is a handy substitute/when you've only got yourself to blame". While not the barn burner that Mindcrime 1 was, it's more than equal to the original and is not a retread. (ever see those sequels and it's pretty much the same thing as the first? Home Alone 2, Return of the Living Dead 2 and others like that, I hate that being done) So, I'm doing my part to spread the word. Our band lineup has changed a bit. Geoff (vocals), Michael (guitar), Eddie (bass) and Scott Rockenfield (drums and I just love that name) all return but lead guitarist DeGarmo had left and was replaced by Mike Stone. No, I don't know who he is either but he does a fine job. My understanding is, however, that DeGarmo did have some input on the album. It was also asked if this was the end of Nikki's story to the band. Geoff replied maybe, maybe not. I won't give them a blank check, but given how good the album is, there might be room for Mindcrime 3. Still, I like to think poor Nikki is finally at peace, even if it's only the peace of the grave.
Both of these albums have some great lyrics that tell the story of either album. Descriptive and invoking easy understanding of the story and where it goes. As good as Mindcrime 1 does this, I think Mindcrime 2 does it even better. You've never heard anguish in so few words but conveyed so powerful. The guitars and drums are top notch on both albums also. While you can hear the change from DeGarmo to Stone, it doesn't effect the album negatively. In fact, I think it helps show the distance and difference from Mindcrime 1. 2006 wasn't 1988, things had changed, which the change in guitarists helps show. Geoff does sound a little bit older, which again, consider the 18 year difference, is a good thing. His voice remains strong and smooth as always though. I give both 5 out of 5. They should both be in your collection.
Have a great Labor Day folks, even if you don't have it off. And come on back by for more Hidden Gems and more of my inane thoughts.
Let met take you back, wayyy back. Somewhere in 1988, back after Metallica had released their last great album, "....And Justice For All". They came to Knoxville on tour and I went to see them with some new friends. I remember the opening band was Queens... somebody. Never heard of them, besides, nobody pays attention to the opening band, right? This little band, however, blew me away. I remember thinking it was the best opening band I had ever seen and heard. (And then Metallica came out and I pretty much forgot about the opening band for a while...) Somewhere I'm going to call Summer of 88, there was a new song I was hearing/seeing on MTV. "Eyes of a Stranger" by Queens... somebody. Hey, wait, that was the band that opened for Metallica. Song was really good. I remember come payday, going and picking up the cassette (showing my age here) and proceeding to wear it out until it broke. Turns out, that little "opening band" was much better than I thought.
Operation: Mindcrime by Queensrÿche (1988)
Wiki tells us that Mindcrime was released in May of 88. The story is that this is a rock opera about a disillusioned "angry young man" named Nikki. Nikki, like a lot of us at the time, didn't care for the power structure of our then current government. (being 18 at the time, suddenly the seeing our country/world wasn't the happy little cloud that most kids think, I agreed with him. Though I didn't consider assassination as a productive way to cause social change.) Nikki falls in with a group lead by a man known as "Dr. X". Using brainwashing and drugs, Dr. X brings Nikki under his control and uses him as an assassin. Nikki ends up meeting a former prostitute turned nun called "Sister Mary" and falling in love with her. Nikki is eventually ordered to kill Mary and her priest "Father William". Nikki indeed kills William (mostly because Father William had been having sex with Mary) but is unable to kill Mary due to his love for her. Nikki & Mary decide to leave the group and Nikki goes to tell Dr X. Nikki is reminded by Dr. X that he (Nikki) is an addict and only Dr. X can give him his fix. Nikki "walks around in circles" for a while and when he comes home, Mary has been killed. Strangled with her own rosary and Nikki unsure if he did it. The police find him, arrest him for Mary's and the other murders he had done. They then take him to the hospital, there Nikki looks into the "Eyes of a Stranger".
You know, all typed out like that, it's a bit more predictable than it on an album. Let's just say I don't do it justice in my description. Being a single, angry young man myself when it came out, this album just spoke to me in ways that only one other album had before. (Pink Floyd's The Wall, if you are interested) And it's an incredible album even without the storyline. Geoff Tate has such a great, strong voice as he assumes the role of Nikki. The twin guitar attack of Chris DeGarmo & Michael Wilton with bass by Eddie Jackson bring all the guitars to the fore. And IMO, their other strongest asset, the powerful, complex drumming of Scott Rockenfield. (That has got to be the best name for a drummer, ever!)
I ended up buying 2 cassettes of the album along with 2 cds. A VHS tape with a mini concert and a selection of videos and, different for the time, a dual VHS/Cd box set concert called "Operation: LiveCrime". I tell you, this was one of the greatest albums I have ever heard. I don't think I've ever heard anybody that has listened to it that didn't like it. Yes, it's metal so some people (for some unfathomable reason) don't like metal. And it's a bit political but without not having specific targets (ie no Regan or King George the first bashing). I realize as older man now, it's probably one of those things that hit me at the right time. I think I would have like it no matter what, but given my own political apathy and disgust, it just rang true to me and I identified with it. (again, not to the killing point!) Remember, this was the era of "Iran Contra" and the like. My generation, if they didn't already know it, was seeing that our government could be as corrupt as any other. That we weren't the White Knight Heroes that we thought we were. Or at least, that's how it was for me. Let me tell you, I listened to this album for years. Rock magazine Kerrang! named it the #34 greatest heavy metal album of all time. Very much worth checking out if you have the time, even if it might seem a bit dated. That's ok, because we now have...
Operation: Mindcrime 2 (2006)
Watching VH1 Classic one afternoon, I noticed the fellows from Queensryche talking about their new album. I had lost touch with them musically over the years, so I watched it for a while. Well, guess what? They had recorded and were about to release a sequel to Operation: Mindcrime. As I listened to the interview, I began to question the logic of this. Over the years, we've all seen some really bad sequels to once great franchises. (Yes, I'm talking about george lucas among others here...., though George Romero has yet to equal himself with his original zombie trilogy) I knew no matter what I thought or wanted, it was coming out so I had just better accept it. So as the show wrapped up, they played the first video off the album (for the first time, I think). A song called "I'm American" and it was pretty good. So I had hope...
Operation: Mindcrime 2 (or II, if you prefer) was indeed a worthy successor. This time, the album opened with Nikki being released from prison. Nikki still hates politics almost as much as he hates Dr. X, who has become rich and powerful. Nikki again runs afoul of the law and ends up in a court where the judge and jury remember him from before (crimes from Mindcrime 1). On the run, he has a vision of Mary who ends up giving Nikki the idea to kill Dr. X. Nikki eventually meets up with Dr. X and after a confrontation, Nikki kills X. This, however, doesn't give him the peace he thought it would. In and out of drug highs, he again has a vision of Mary who suggest he kill himself. As the album ends, we hear Nikki & Mary both profess the they only time they were happy was with each other.
The lady who sang Mary's parts is named Pamela Moore and let me tell you, she puts on a show here. In Mindcrime 1, we had the duet "Suite Sister Mary" that was usually left out of live shows (until the Empire tour, that is). Here we have Pamela & Geoff alternating in multiple songs, her voice being on par with Geoff's being no average feat. And this time, the role of Dr. X is played by Metal Legend Ronnie James Dio who also has a duet with Geoff in "The Chase". (and no, it's not a lovey dovey duet. Two great voices in metal going at each other vocally. You might have seen the video I linked to on Facebook of them doing it live. Just simple greatness.) The album ends seemingly with Nikki dead due to suicide (I'm guessing drug overdose) and hopefully, at peace. Maybe with Mary in the afterlife if the last song, "All The Promises" is any reliable guide.
Where as Mindcrime 1 was about angry young men, Mindcrime 2 is more about feeling (Nikki's) life gone wrong by bad choices. Again, this album echoed what was going on in my personal life at the time. Not that I felt that much of my life had gone wrong, but I'm guessing like most people, I expected more from it. And unlike Nikki, at least through most of the album, I don't blame someone (Dr. X) for all the mistakes of my life. All those bad decisions? I made them, maybe with bad advise but I made them. Still, I can see the appeal of that mindset. As Dr. X/RJD sings, "Pride is a handy substitute/when you've only got yourself to blame". While not the barn burner that Mindcrime 1 was, it's more than equal to the original and is not a retread. (ever see those sequels and it's pretty much the same thing as the first? Home Alone 2, Return of the Living Dead 2 and others like that, I hate that being done) So, I'm doing my part to spread the word. Our band lineup has changed a bit. Geoff (vocals), Michael (guitar), Eddie (bass) and Scott Rockenfield (drums and I just love that name) all return but lead guitarist DeGarmo had left and was replaced by Mike Stone. No, I don't know who he is either but he does a fine job. My understanding is, however, that DeGarmo did have some input on the album. It was also asked if this was the end of Nikki's story to the band. Geoff replied maybe, maybe not. I won't give them a blank check, but given how good the album is, there might be room for Mindcrime 3. Still, I like to think poor Nikki is finally at peace, even if it's only the peace of the grave.
Both of these albums have some great lyrics that tell the story of either album. Descriptive and invoking easy understanding of the story and where it goes. As good as Mindcrime 1 does this, I think Mindcrime 2 does it even better. You've never heard anguish in so few words but conveyed so powerful. The guitars and drums are top notch on both albums also. While you can hear the change from DeGarmo to Stone, it doesn't effect the album negatively. In fact, I think it helps show the distance and difference from Mindcrime 1. 2006 wasn't 1988, things had changed, which the change in guitarists helps show. Geoff does sound a little bit older, which again, consider the 18 year difference, is a good thing. His voice remains strong and smooth as always though. I give both 5 out of 5. They should both be in your collection.
Have a great Labor Day folks, even if you don't have it off. And come on back by for more Hidden Gems and more of my inane thoughts.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
My Favorite Afternoon
So I was all set and ready to go on posting my first movie review here and.... well... Ah, it just kind of didn't happen. Piranha 3D, for anyone who's keeping track. I may still put it up but I've had something else on my mind today....
I don't know where this came from, but I was thinking back to a day almost 20 years ago. I was working at Hardee's restaurant, probably in Oak Ridge as a manager. At the same time, I was going to college at Roane State. So that puts it in the early 90s, but I can't narrow it down much more. Being a manager wasn't too hard of a job, lot of stress though. Add in going to college, even at a community college, and you have VERY little time left. I'm pretty sure it's why it took me 3 years to get out of a 2 year school. Working 40+ to 50+ hours a week, or more and then trying to read the Iliad in one week and doing other homework and you've got a fun life. So, as you can guess, my days off were pretty special to me. Very few times in those 3 years did I have a day off from both.
So, on with the story, I got out of class and went do to McKay's Used Book store (back when it was still McKay's). Did some perusing and found some issues of Dragon Magazine I had been looking for. For those of you that don't know, Dragon Magazine was a "help" magazine for the Dungeons & Dragons game. It had articles about people, towns, ideas and the like to help your game. (and if you want an argument, start that stupid lie about D&D being Satanic. Trust me, you won't like what I have to say back.) Anyway, picked them up, some other books and headed home.
I got home and no one else was there. It was warm but not hot that day. I remember well, because I sat out on the porch and started delving in to the books. While sitting there, it started to sprinkle. It increased, becoming a full on rain storm. Nothing too strong, no wind up on the porch. But I remember it like it was yesterday. Had my feet up, good read in my hands, drink at my side and comfortable setting. Gee, I wonder why that memory sticks so well? :) (and yes, I still have those magazines. In a box somewhere in my storage building but they survived the great purge during the last move)
So yeah, that's pretty much it. I guess I should say favorite afternoon alone. I remember as my Mother pulled in, the "spell" seemed to break. It wasn't the same anymore, something had changed. Dare I say it? The "magic" was gone. I knew then that I would remember that for the rest of my life.
How sad is that? I wrote a blog and waxed nostalgic about being alone and liking it.
I don't know where this came from, but I was thinking back to a day almost 20 years ago. I was working at Hardee's restaurant, probably in Oak Ridge as a manager. At the same time, I was going to college at Roane State. So that puts it in the early 90s, but I can't narrow it down much more. Being a manager wasn't too hard of a job, lot of stress though. Add in going to college, even at a community college, and you have VERY little time left. I'm pretty sure it's why it took me 3 years to get out of a 2 year school. Working 40+ to 50+ hours a week, or more and then trying to read the Iliad in one week and doing other homework and you've got a fun life. So, as you can guess, my days off were pretty special to me. Very few times in those 3 years did I have a day off from both.
So, on with the story, I got out of class and went do to McKay's Used Book store (back when it was still McKay's). Did some perusing and found some issues of Dragon Magazine I had been looking for. For those of you that don't know, Dragon Magazine was a "help" magazine for the Dungeons & Dragons game. It had articles about people, towns, ideas and the like to help your game. (and if you want an argument, start that stupid lie about D&D being Satanic. Trust me, you won't like what I have to say back.) Anyway, picked them up, some other books and headed home.
I got home and no one else was there. It was warm but not hot that day. I remember well, because I sat out on the porch and started delving in to the books. While sitting there, it started to sprinkle. It increased, becoming a full on rain storm. Nothing too strong, no wind up on the porch. But I remember it like it was yesterday. Had my feet up, good read in my hands, drink at my side and comfortable setting. Gee, I wonder why that memory sticks so well? :) (and yes, I still have those magazines. In a box somewhere in my storage building but they survived the great purge during the last move)
So yeah, that's pretty much it. I guess I should say favorite afternoon alone. I remember as my Mother pulled in, the "spell" seemed to break. It wasn't the same anymore, something had changed. Dare I say it? The "magic" was gone. I knew then that I would remember that for the rest of my life.
How sad is that? I wrote a blog and waxed nostalgic about being alone and liking it.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Divided Football Loyalties
Greetings all,
So, in a reboot of my blog site (Hollyweird can do it, so can I!), here's my first "new" blog. As football season rolls around, I'm kind of concerned about where my college football loyalties may lay.
See, for the last wow... roughly 20-ish years, my college team has been the Florida State Seminoles. Now why would some dumb country boy from the Knoxville, Tn area pick FSU? The answer, like lots of things from my younger days, comes from something I didn't like. When I started watching football in the 80s, I quickly learned to hate the Miami Hurricanes (aka Duh U!). Why you ask? Punks, thugs, the usual stuff. So, since I had my bad guy, I needed a hero to cheer for. Thank you forgotten sports reporter who said that Florida State was Miami's biggest rival. The rest, as they say, is history.
Now I know the question you are wondering right now. If I grew up in the Knoxville Tn area, why wasn't I a University of Tennessee Vol fan? The answer is easy enough. In the 70s around here, Johnny Majors was not only the coach of the football team, he WAS UT Football. And my Dad pretty much hated Johnny Majors. Hence, you don't like Majors, you don't like UT. Now, since I was only 10 when the 70's ended, cut my logic some slack here please. I grew to like them but honestly, I don't have the undying love that most of my neighbors have. Hate me later, ok?
So, I had my team, I had my villain and for the next 20 or so years, it was good. I learned to dislike a few more teams (Notre Dame matching Duh U as most hated), respect some I didn't before ('Bama, Nebraska) and just enjoy college football in general. But then came the last few seasons of FSU football and .... Well, things hadn't gone well for the school or the team. Each year though, the legendary coach Bobby Bowden was still there on the sidelines. In 2007, Jimbo Fisher, then offensive coordinator for LSU, was hired away to the same position at FSU and was named "coach in waiting". Now, I can't say for Coach Bowden, but "coach in waiting" sounds very close to "don't let the door hit you on the way out" to me. Last season, the losses mounted and the head of the chancellor started calling for Bobby to step aside. Let me put that in simpler terms, somebody who had nothing to do with football was trying to tell a coach what to do though the news paper. As the season came and went, unfortunately, so did Coach Bowden. (Hope one day I meet Mr. Chancellor on the side of the road with his car broke down.....)
Year after year, Coach Bowden was there. During the time I met, dated, engaged, married and divorced my ex-wife, he was coach. Through several different post marriage girlfriends, he was there. Break ups, moves, births and deaths, Coach Bowden was still on the sidelines. It became like sun up or sun down, something you just expected. Now, he's not going to be there this year. And.... I don't know if FSU will remain my team. I've begun to wonder (and just wonder as I have no proof) if Jimbo Fisher might have been holding the team back to help hasten the departure. I sincerely hope not, but if the team comes out on fire and kicking butt, it will make me wonder. Still, it will be different this season. Only one last legend on the side lines, Coach Joe Paterno of Penn State.
I know some of my friends will suggest that I transfer my allegiance to the local team here and maybe they have a point. Maybe I'll stick with FSU, considering how many years I've stuck with my pro team (the Oakland Raiders) while they stunk it up. Maybe a new team..... I don't know. I just know I'll be a bit sad as the new season opens and on Sept 4th at Doak Campbell and Coach Bowden isn't there.
Thank you Coach, for all the memories, great teams, times and victories.
So, in a reboot of my blog site (Hollyweird can do it, so can I!), here's my first "new" blog. As football season rolls around, I'm kind of concerned about where my college football loyalties may lay.
See, for the last wow... roughly 20-ish years, my college team has been the Florida State Seminoles. Now why would some dumb country boy from the Knoxville, Tn area pick FSU? The answer, like lots of things from my younger days, comes from something I didn't like. When I started watching football in the 80s, I quickly learned to hate the Miami Hurricanes (aka Duh U!). Why you ask? Punks, thugs, the usual stuff. So, since I had my bad guy, I needed a hero to cheer for. Thank you forgotten sports reporter who said that Florida State was Miami's biggest rival. The rest, as they say, is history.
Now I know the question you are wondering right now. If I grew up in the Knoxville Tn area, why wasn't I a University of Tennessee Vol fan? The answer is easy enough. In the 70s around here, Johnny Majors was not only the coach of the football team, he WAS UT Football. And my Dad pretty much hated Johnny Majors. Hence, you don't like Majors, you don't like UT. Now, since I was only 10 when the 70's ended, cut my logic some slack here please. I grew to like them but honestly, I don't have the undying love that most of my neighbors have. Hate me later, ok?
So, I had my team, I had my villain and for the next 20 or so years, it was good. I learned to dislike a few more teams (Notre Dame matching Duh U as most hated), respect some I didn't before ('Bama, Nebraska) and just enjoy college football in general. But then came the last few seasons of FSU football and .... Well, things hadn't gone well for the school or the team. Each year though, the legendary coach Bobby Bowden was still there on the sidelines. In 2007, Jimbo Fisher, then offensive coordinator for LSU, was hired away to the same position at FSU and was named "coach in waiting". Now, I can't say for Coach Bowden, but "coach in waiting" sounds very close to "don't let the door hit you on the way out" to me. Last season, the losses mounted and the head of the chancellor started calling for Bobby to step aside. Let me put that in simpler terms, somebody who had nothing to do with football was trying to tell a coach what to do though the news paper. As the season came and went, unfortunately, so did Coach Bowden. (Hope one day I meet Mr. Chancellor on the side of the road with his car broke down.....)
Year after year, Coach Bowden was there. During the time I met, dated, engaged, married and divorced my ex-wife, he was coach. Through several different post marriage girlfriends, he was there. Break ups, moves, births and deaths, Coach Bowden was still on the sidelines. It became like sun up or sun down, something you just expected. Now, he's not going to be there this year. And.... I don't know if FSU will remain my team. I've begun to wonder (and just wonder as I have no proof) if Jimbo Fisher might have been holding the team back to help hasten the departure. I sincerely hope not, but if the team comes out on fire and kicking butt, it will make me wonder. Still, it will be different this season. Only one last legend on the side lines, Coach Joe Paterno of Penn State.
I know some of my friends will suggest that I transfer my allegiance to the local team here and maybe they have a point. Maybe I'll stick with FSU, considering how many years I've stuck with my pro team (the Oakland Raiders) while they stunk it up. Maybe a new team..... I don't know. I just know I'll be a bit sad as the new season opens and on Sept 4th at Doak Campbell and Coach Bowden isn't there.
Thank you Coach, for all the memories, great teams, times and victories.
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