• Dodo Nest •

moving to Wordpress

2011-10-31T10:30:00.000-07:00

https://dodonest.wordpress.com/

I liked Blogspot... a lot... it was user-friendly and kinda raw...
I did NOT want to jump the WP bandwagon... but then they went and
pulled a Digg and lost all their customers :-/

WHY THE HELL did Blogger delete all the previously-posted pictures??!!
I've come to find out that this became a very common issue:
Many Blogger customers are complaining about broken links
yet Blogger (google) appears not to have noticed it!
This makes NO sense, and so rather than go back to every single
post and fix the links
..... aaahhhh forget it, goodbye Blogspot!
:-(

I'm starting anew over at the Word Press and perhaps
I'll start off the MixTapes back from #01 again.
Stayed tuned

Good Night... to party

2011-08-04T10:47:00.000-07:00

Mixtape #07

Just mixed, a collection of indie pop and electronic remixes to provide the soundtrack to a good night of revelry and dancing.

Some new Little Dragon to star things off– this track is as radio-ready as I've heard them and ready to POP! Then some ultra-fun Body Language remixes to tap your feet as you make your way to the club. Then there's a very catchy tune from Foster the People that seemed to come out of nowhere and is sure to get your stereo bumping. Don't miss the new Beirut track inspired by his hometown here in the southwest. Pogo brings a nostalgic, but very funky, Disney remix. And a couple of oldies but goodies from Postal Service, and Badly Drawn Boy.

/bonne|nuit\ (indie pop and remixes)

1. Mistake Machine - Dutch Dub
2. Ritual Union - Little Dragon
3. Social Studies (Plastic Plates Remix) - Body Language
4. New Beat - Toro Y Moi
5. Family Waves - Dinosaur Feathers
6. Pumped Up Kicks - Foster The People
7. Centrifuge - Pomplamoose
8. Big Dipper (abridged) - Delorean
9. Santa Fe - Beirut
10. Bloom - Pogo
11. Blink and You Miss A Revolution (Toro Y Moi rmx) - Cut Copy
12. Still Sound (Teeel Remix) - Toro Y Moi
13. Should Have Taken Acid With You (Body Language Remix) - Neon Indian
14. Such Great Heights (John Tejada Remix) - The Postal Service
15. Nantes (Gameplay's Disco Remix) - Beirut
16. Once Around The Block (Nick Faber Remix) - Badly Drawn Boy
17. Be Still - Pomplamoose

Put on some shiny shoes and get yourself to the dance floor!

DodoNest presents:
/bonne|nuit\
a good night to party

Deathly Hallowed

2011-07-11T09:53:00.000-07:00

With the upcoming release of the final Harry Potter movie in the series, i thought it would be a good idea to put out this neat collection of songs i was listening to around the time the final book was released (circa 2007).

A little dark and mysterious, these songs put me back into that frame of mind when i was reading about the trio's quest to vanquish He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named.

Deathly Hallows was an engaging, and exciting culmination to the series which, in it's own right, featured a unique story even within the constructs of a long-established franchise. It derailed from its preceding books and delved into the unknown– a dark magical universe– that none of the previous stories had truly explored. Likewise, I felt these songs, at the time, were quite extraordinary upon their release.

1. Pioneer to the Falls - Interpol
2. Take a Bow - Muse
3. A Contest - Oucho Sparks
4. Myxamatosis - Radiohead
5. Dead Wrong - Frausdots
6. The Captured Mind - Helio Sequence
7. Bird on a Wire - Rogue Wave
8. Pteradactly - Terodactyl
9. Herculean - The Good The Bad and The Queen
10. Different Names for the Same Thing - Death Cab for Cutie
11. Waiting - The Cure
12. He Lied About Death - Stars
13. Viaje Astral - Jaguares
14. Day of the Baphomets - Mars Volta
15. Right in Two - Tool

A couple of sweet rarities in here including the understated orchestra-type band that is OUCHO SPARKS. Also, please listen carefully to TERODACTYL, who was a prodigious songwriter from my neck of the woods, doing an eerie song that seems to be evoking the Dark Arts--- {LOL}. Anyways, I hope you enjoy this unofficial soundtrack to the Deathly Hallows.

DodoNest presents:
Deathly Hallowed
music inspired by the fall of You-Know-Who

"On Strings (Single cut)" by TTT

2011-06-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

TOUCH-TONE TELEPHONE
presents their first release:

turn your eyes from the tv display
turn around
you're blinking seconds fast becoming hours
turn around
for these long years its been the same thing on an endless loop
over and over again
for too long the talking heads have spilt their hegemony
and called it reality
♫♬
now it comes back to claim your voice
to take your first-born
crawling through the walls via surround sound
it's inside you
but how to capture all the channels flipping in your head?
(when you're conditioned to this)
rather let the master resume remote control
like a puppet on strings

Touch-Tone Telephone is:
Dm3o Lara = drums, drum machine
Xuck Espinoza = electric guitar, effects, sax
Avian Eddy = lyrics, bass, sound-effects

"On Strings"

2011-05-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

More work-in-progress from the border trio*

"On Strings"

take 1
pro: great rhythm
con: weak vocals

take 2
pro: better vocals
con: off-key bass

TBA

2011-05-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

New musical project from the border featuring Xuck on guitar&vox, Dm3o on drums, Avian on vox&bass.

"Always Tell"

ver 1a : bare bones
pros: beat and bassline
con: no melody

ver 1b : Xuck on vox
pros: powerful rythm, beginning of a melody
con: weak bassline

ver 2 : Avian-lyrics
pros: lyrics, song structure
cons: timid bassline, inconsistent beat

Band name as of yet to be determined. Stay tuned!

Time for some BARBECUES!

2011-04-06T16:38:00.000-07:00

It's spring time in the desert!
Unfortunately, all the palm trees have died during the unprecedented frost of February as well as most of our iconic desert cacti, which have turned into brown gelatinous masses. But we're still dry as a sandpit. Climate change will not be denied!

Mankind, however, is quick to adapt to the situations, and by that i mean ignore them. Alas... what can we do while the Earth slowly roasts us?? How 'bout slowly roasting some beef patties and steaks?!

Let the good times re-commence and the barbecues begin!

I present a double album hip-hop mix that is PERFECT for a relaxing backyard cook-out with your family and friends. So let the steaks thaw and the brews chill while you play these delicious playlists.

Chillin' At the BBQ

1. Anotha' (BBQ) - People Under The Stairs
2. Justin Case - Giant Panda
3. Ring Finger - RJD2
4. Stressed Out (feat. Faith Evans) - A Tribe Called Quest
5. Jettin' - Digable Planets
6. Hurt Me Soul - Lupe Fiasco
7. The Irony of It All - The Streets
8. Cream of the Crop - People Under The Stairs
9. Clean Living - RJD2
10. Show Business - A Tribe Called Quest
11. People Riddum (feat. Odell) - People Under The Stairs
12. Kick, Push II - Lupe Fiasco
13. Seasons - RJD2 (CunninLynguists ft. Masta Ace)
14. Blowing Down - Digable Planets
15. Acid Raindrops - People Under The Stairs

Groovin' at the BBQ

1. The Wiz - People Under The Stairs
2. Cinemax - Giant Panda
3. 1976 - RJD2
4. Jazz (We've Got) - A Tribe Called Quest
5. All In (Feat. Gift Of Gab And Pigeon John) - The Grouch & Eligh
6. Gamin' On Ya - People Under The Stairs
7. For Corners - Digable Planets
8. Luck of Lucien [aTCQ] - DJ Chicken George
9. California (feat. Blvme) - People Under The Stairs
10. Jam - A Tribe Called Quest
11. I Gotcha - Lupe Fiasco
12. If I Had A Day To Live - Funky DL
13. Say G&E! - The Grouch & Eligh
14. Let It Go - Giant Panda
15. Don't Even Try It (feat. Funky DL) - Nujabes

Stanton Street Collective @ EP Trolley

2011-03-20T14:53:00.000-07:00

We had a fun little show this Sunday as part of a local event promoting the El Paso Transnational Trolley.

This recording captures three of our original songs:
1. ¿Como te Llamaras? (Eddy)
2. Red Robin (Freddy)
3. Tiene Hambre, Tiene Sed (Tony)

❄ Warm By Winter ❄

2011-02-03T13:34:00.001-08:00

Mixtape #06

How to keep your ears warm this winter: cover with large muffy earphones and pop in this special winter mix!

While not exactly independent or underground, these musicians don't get much attention outside the audiophile circles. If there was justice in the world, we'd be hearing these tunes on the radio. (RADIO?? What the heck is that??)

Well I've compiled a mix of cool, yet energetic songs from some accomplished acts, as well as a few relatively unknowns and thrown in a couple of remixes you're sure to enjoy while your windows frost over.

I tried to incorporate a winter theme here, obviously, but most of all what keeps us warm in the cold months: some hot fuzzy lubby dubb ❤ ❤ ❤ –– a lot of songs about LOVE in this mix... enjoy!

------ ❄ Warm By Winter ❄ ------

1. Zero Yeah - Yeah Yeahs
2. Celestica - Crystal Castles
3. Five Fingers - The Bird Day
4. My ❤ - The Bird and the Bee
5. Not Today - White Wishes
6. Like Flowers At Night - Panda Riot
7. You've Got The ❤ - Florence And The Machine
8. Enzymes - Freelance Whales
9. Keep The Girls Away - Teen Daze
10. Get In Line - Forever Today
11. Human Nature (Michael Jackson COVER) - Toro Y Moi
12. Falling Out - Body Language
13. Still Sound - Toro y Moi
14. Not In ❤ (feat. Robert Smith) - Crystal Castles
15. True ❤ Will Find You in the End (Daniel Johnston COVER) - Mates Of State
16. You've Got The ❤ (The Xx REMIX) - Florence And The Machine

~ Doooo it!!!

AvianEddy presents:
❄Warm By Winter❄
Energetic Winter Music Mix

~avian

Lip Service

2011-01-20T09:11:00.000-08:00

We had a GREAT show this past weekend!

It was called MAUSFEST, in honor of our friend Maus' birthday. Maus is one of the best drummers in town and is VERY active– playing in possibly 8 different acts! Needless to say, quite a number of bands participated, including local-legend Mattox.

This event was held at a wonderful bar called Lips located in downtown El Paso. This place has great potential to be an indy-band showcase, with a large stage and even a dance floor. Stanton Street Collective was lucky to open the show and played a good number of songs including this latin-infused love song:

Tiene Hambre, Tiene Sed
written by Tony Melendez

Don't mind the chatter and Hope you enjoy it. (Thanks to Pilar for the vid)

GTFO, Liebermann

2011-01-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

Ex-democrat and liberal turncoat, Joe Liebermann announced he will NOT be seeking re-election to the Senate. While it may disappoint his two or three dedicated fans, or whoever gets paid to run his "Connecticut for Lieberman" party, it is great news for everyone else.

"Me? Droopy? I resent that."
Suspiciously soon after the Secretary of the State of Connecticut Susan Bysiewicz announced her intention to challenge him, Droopy the Dog announced he would leave the Senate of his own accord, walk away with his tail between his legs, and go lick himself.

My only question is why didn't this happen any sooner? That guy's been such a pseudo-Republican ever since Bush was appointed. As soon as Al Gore's presidency was denied, he immediately turned to the right and started licking some GOP ass– supporting the Iraq war, voting for the Patriot Act, etc. He's done nothing but pander and whine ever since. Where was a challenger to his seat 8 years ago? Hell, even last year! Connecticut is a moderately liberal state, what gives???

Oh well, better late than never. Good riddance!

Deastro, Our Brother from the Stars

2010-11-16T16:03:00.000-08:00

Checkerboard patterns and hi-tops seems to be making a comeback. Dayglow sunglasses are chic, and anything from the late 80's to 90's is retro-cool. I even saw a kid with a Gameboy Brick hanging from a necklace... YES! the old one that weighed 10 pounds!!!

Well, thankfully there is something GOOD coming out of this 80's retro revival thing and that something is this:

This was a long time coming! Frankly, I dont know WHY i hadn't put up a mega compilation of one of the most unique singer/songwriters of this era until now.

-----DEASTRO Our Brother The Megazord-----

✓ Rachel's House or The Infantine Dream House [from Time The Teenage Twister]
✓ Shield Whip [from OrangeSwimmer/RedSummer]
✓ The Green Harbor [from Keepers]
✓ Biophilia [from Moondagger]
✓ Idol Builders (Instrumental)
✓ The Ghost of Daniel Johnston [from Moondagger]
✓ The Shaded Forest [Keeper's Ver.]
✓ Spritle [7" Single]
✓ Vermillion Plaza (Live) [on KEXP]
✓ Toxic Crusaders (Live) [on KEXP]
✓ Leah's Daughter the Giraffe [from Keepers]
✓ The Shaded Forest [Giftgiver's Ver.]
✓ Tree Frog [b-side to Spritle]
✓ Divali [from Sahara]
✓ Glockenspiel [from Time The Teenage Twister]
✓ Zilwaukee (Live) [on KEXP]
✓ Cookie Powered (Instrumental)
✓ Mowgli The Lynx [from Mind Altar]
✓ Where Boulders Melt (Instrumental)

In this mix, I have included some of Randolph Chabot Jr's work with Our Brother The Megazord along with his work as Deastro plus some rare bonuses.

You're gonna get blown away by this collection, because although the genre may sound familiar– it employs some of the electronic beeps and glitches we've been hearing lately– the sounds and textures combine and layer upon each other to take you to a hazy, dreamy place you haven't visited in decades. This rings true for his lyrical songs like "The Green Harbor," as it does in instrumentals like "The Land Where Boulders Melt," the latter being a composition that could've easily emerged from a Super Nintendo adventure game.

Deastro is taking risks in this retro approach. He could easily be shelved as too cliché in a room full of hipsters, or too nostalgic for the avant-garde, but his experiments yield charming results. There's no denying this guy has songwriting talent and it can only get better in my opinion. For now, I can only describe it as harking back to a period of 16-bit sprites, BGM by ROM, and the nostalgic ephemera only a kid of the 80's & 90's can recollect.

~Enjoy!

DodoNest presents:
Deastro, Our Brother The Megazord

Losers and Winners of the 2010 Midterm

2010-11-04T08:37:00.001-07:00

Loser:

Nancy Pelosi, the first female Speaker of the House

Winner:

John Boehner, the first orange Speaker of the House

Losers:

Proponents of sensible marijuana policies, and the bankrupt state of California

Winners:

The dealers, the traffickers, the “Drug War” and all who profit from it

Losers:

Russ Feingold (wtf!!!), Alan Grayson, and the hope for progressive change in Congress

Winners:

527 groups and millionaires like Ron Johnson who can buy themselves a Senate seat

Good job, America!
(facepalm)

"DARKSIDE" (Dark House mix)

2010-10-22T16:01:00.001-07:00

Just in time for Halloween, it's my first multi-track mix: DARKSIDE. It features some electronic music favorites like Blonde Redhead and SVIIB, as well as some Spook House, or Dark House, whatever they're calling this emerging genre of dark-themed electronic music– namely Salem, and a great new act Andre Obin. Don't miss his creepy song "Arsonist."

Paradise City - Blondes
At a Glance - Body Language
Here Sometimes - Blonde Redhead
Alice - Pogo
King Night - Salem
This City is Killing Me - Dusty Brown
The Arsonist - André Obin
Track 6 - Mattox
Windstorm - School of Seven Bells
Deli (Acid Girls Remix) - Delorean

***Special thanks to Mattox, who are some excellent musicians from the border region. Their work is awe-inspiring and I would say reflective of the despondent mood in our sister city, Ciudad Juarez– quite apt for this mix.

WtF, Progressives?!

2010-10-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

Stop saying the Democrats are gonna lose this coming Election Day! I'm as frustrated with the Dems as the rest of you, but why are you throwing in the towel before the match even begins? Voter enthusiasm is alarmingly low (voter poll). And to make a bad omen worse, Pres. Obama is already talking about the need to compromise with the yet-to-be-elected Republicans.

"...the American people are going to be looking to [the Republicans] to offer serious proposals and work with me in a serious way.”
~Pres. Obama; October 13, 2010 (interview with NY Times)

WtF?!! Why do we need to be talking about compromise and deal-making with an imaginary Republican-led congress? Do we need the government shutdown some of these clowns are already promising to their voters? Are frivolous investigations into the White House what congress needs to do in the next few years? Do we need a full-on depression in our economy when the Republicans push their tax-cut-only budgets?

This election is immensely important for our near future. We are on the brink of catastrophe, so the thought of a GOP-led congress is something I have little patience for.

"You mean you still haven't picked up all my shit?!"

I will admit the Dems have left much to be desired these two years. There are countless articles from progressives about the things they couldn't (or wouldn't) do. But the Dems actually got some things right:

they did stave off a cascading economy,
they did pass a semi-descent health reform bill,
and they did negotiate an arms reduction treaty with Russia.

That is progress.

Make NO MISTAKE about it: the Republicans, and their tea-baggin' cohorts, will return us to the tried-and-failed tactic of de-regulation and 19th-century laissez faire principles. They will pursue the privatization of Social Security and MediCare if given the slimmest chance. They will attempt to repeal what little progress they couldn't inhibit these past years.

So I ask you, progressives: what the f!@#? Don't sit this one out. This will not be an election where you pick the "lesser of two evils." Because you KNOW where the evil lies. It lies in deceit. It hides behind 527 organizations and hails the Citizens United decision as a "victory for free speech."

If ever there were dichotomies in real life (which I always argue against), there is one in this election. I will argue it is a black-&-white choice between the possibility of progress and the certainty of regression.

Don't vote for "Democrat," vote for PROGRESS.

~avian

Indie-Wordplay 3

2010-10-05T11:06:00.000-07:00

Hey Everybody!

Here's the third installment of a little playlist I put together for all you
Indie fans complete with a sample of the New album by the Belle and
Sebastian!!
I know what you're gonna ask: 3rd? Where are the other two...?
NOT important hahahaha! That's just not the way things work around here, is it?
Just kiddin... If you like 3 and would like "It's Indie-Wordplay 1 & 2"
Post up! and Avian will let me know and a link will be supplied.
Anyway Njoy, ladies and gents.

"Indie Wordplay Pt. 3"

120 -Germany Germany
Ending Soon -Winter Gloves
English Garden -Like Pioneers
Beeswax -NazcarNation
Bones Become Rainbows -The Wailing Wall
Bus Stop -Basement Birds
Cala Cola -The Smiles
Dreaming -Seapony
Halflight -The Meligrove Band
May I Walk With You? -Star Slinger
Megan Fox -All My Friends & Oh No! Yoko
Memories -Weezer
No Fucking Around -Rafter
Oh I Wandered -Paperfangs
Quarry Hymns -Land of Talk
San Fran -Kids Of 88
Stay Down -Wrstlrs
These Hands -The Belligerents
I'm Not Living In The Real World -Belle & Sebastian

P.S. Here are the playlists for Indie 1 and 2 if you're curious... Nothin
you haven't heard before, just a list of my favs.

~J-Biz

Ethnic Studies

2010-10-02T14:53:00.001-07:00

Waves burst from caves.
Amphibious fellows open windows through space,
observing the multiplicity of movement
in coordination with superbly calculated leaps.

Peering into the western sky
UV rays slice pupils and bloodstreams.
Some live and some die.
Some remain to tell the stories.
Look down, smile, and wave to grandpa.

Do the 19^th century Double Dutch with political boundaries,
basking in invented history
Birth, Live, Work, Fight, Kill, Die in YOUR own dust.
Land of Many Uses,
bow beneath the boot.

Put 80% in your pocket and save the rest for never.
Intellectual stimulation giving way to compassion,
swallowed by hunger for self illumination.
I can see you approach from the mountaintop vista of your history,
and I'm here to tell you that it's mine to distribute
in accurately measured 90 degree angular parcels.

Divvied up to Junior, and Sally, but most of all to my grave.
Your disregarded memory stands encoded on my tombstone,
to be deciphered in the presence of hidden memory.

~Circadian Petition

~Jeffro

"Come on, Sister" ~ Belle and Sebastian

2010-09-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

Belle & Sebastian is about to release a new album.... yay! It's been almost 4 years since Life Pursuit, what have you guys been doing?

Belle and Sebastian Write About Love ...um, don't they always? :-p

OH! They've been writing about love! Well, it's about time! Cause anyone who knows about this Scottish powerhouse knows that they are consistently great songwriters. They are one amongst few bands that release incredible albums which are throughly fresh and enjoyable track-after-track.

Mark your calendar for the official release, October 11th. And while you wait... we here at the Dodo Nest are such good guys that we have posted an advance track. Check out their lovely new song, "Come On Sister". Get-it, get-it!

"Come on Sister" by B&S

This song has a playful sound that reminds me of early 80's anime– かわいい! It's just too cute!!! Anyways, download it and spread it like a bad FWD: cause it's sure to whet your appetite for the real deal.

We Miss You, Nujabes :'-(

2010-09-21T10:41:00.000-07:00

"It's funny how the music put time in perspective,
add a soundtrack to your life and perfect it"
~Shing02, Luv(Sic)Pt.3

I can't believe it's only been a few months since Nujabes' passing. Personally, no other artist has left such an impression upon his/her death like him. It seems his absence left a large void in my musical heart. Perhaps because I was turned onto his music during a particularly enjoyable time in my life, his passing symbolized an end to that mirthful chapter.

As a change of pace from the usual indie stuff, I'm digging into my "urban" side (LOL) and sharing with you what made hip-hop not only enjoyable to me but maybe even therapeutic. This playlist is an homage to the music that comprises the soundtrack to your life.

-----We'll Miss You Seba Jun-----

1. Next View*
2. Sky Is Falling (feat. C.L. Smooth)
3. Luv (Sic) (feat. Shing02)
4. Ordinary Joe (feat. Terry Callier)
5. Latitude (Remix) (feat. Five Deez)
6. Blessin' It (feat. Pase Rock & Substantial)
7. Feather (Feat. Cise Starr & Akin)
8. Luv (Sic) Part 2 (feat. Shing02)
9. Modal Soul*
10. Aurorian Dance*
11. Don't Even Try It (feat. Funky DL)
12. Old Light (93 Million Miles Away) (feat. Pase Rock)
13. Luv (Sic) Part 3 (feat. Shing 02)
14. Highs To Lows Remix Feat Cise Starr (Street)
15. Home Sweet Home (feat. Substantial)
16. Thank You (feat. Apani B)
17. F.I.L.O. (First In Last Out) (feat. Shing 02)
18. Think Different (feat. Substantial)
19. Summer Gipsy*
20. 四季ノ唄 Shiki no Ūta (Song of the Season)

Choice cuts: the incredibly romantic Luv(Sic) Trilogy; the mind-altering Think Different with Substantial (this song changed my entire perspective about hip-hop vs rap); a couple of rarities including the intro instrumental, Next View, the Highs To Lows Remix with Cise Starr, and another Shing02 track, First In Last Out; and to bring the set to a close, the ending theme to Samurai Champloo, Shiki no Ūta... I get teary-eyed just thinking about it.

Some of his best hip-hop tracks line the way here. But because Nujabes was first and foremost a producer, I decided to include a few of his compositions without an MC (denoted by *). These beautiful instrumental pieces come in as interludes, of sorts. Between the emceeing and high-energy beats, I thrown in a couple of Nujabes' most hear-felt rhythms & harmonies including: Modal Soul, which features the wonderful saxophone melodies of Uyama Hiroto; the often-imitated classical guitar style of Aurorian Dance; and the coffee house sounds of Summer Gypsy, whose delightfully-deceptive dance club intro and outro always makes me smile.

All you hip-hop fanatics, ENJOY!
Jun Seba, we will miss you dearly.

DodoNest presents:
We'll Miss You 瀬葉淳
Selections from the late and great Nujabes

OPST (Full pics)

2010-09-16T10:27:00.000-07:00

Full view of recent pieces by Opst.

Opst Graffiti

2010-09-15T10:22:00.001-07:00

Some pieces that I have done recently.

~Opst

Just Wanted to Say Thank You for Putting my Song on Your Blog.

2010-09-13T20:59:00.001-07:00

I alway enjoyed checking out your blog for my indie fix, and I was uber psyched when I saw my song made your playlist. Thanks for the support, and keep listening.

Jake A.K.A The Darchives.

I ❤ 8-bit

2010-09-10T09:56:00.001-07:00

Mixtape #05

I proclaim myself to be a video-game Luddite! I cant play first-person games and I get headaches in a "3-D" environment :-(
So I'm enamored with the 8-bit era and am discovering the influence it has on the music scene. More and more I am hearing MIDI-type sounds and gamey sound effects on my favorite jams. That is why my new mixtape is dedicated to this musical pixelation. I Love 8-bit!
The must-hear tunes are: the new Helio Sequence song, which I hope is a preview of their new album; a new and refreshing song from The Shins, and a great hip hop track by Mega Ran dedicated to the only female robot boss in the Mega Man series :-D

------I ❤ 8-bit------

1. Loro - Pinback
2. Monogamy Is a Type Of Wood- The Darchives
3. Wet Hair (Japandroids) - Teen Daze
4. Cable TV - Fol Chen
5. It's the Chemicals feat. Scarub (Dodo mix) - Inspired Flight
6. Turn It Off - Phantogram
7. When I'm Yours - Film School
8. Goodbye Girl - The Shins
9. Splash Woman - Random a.k.a. Mega Ran
10. Mingus And Pike - The Ruby Suns
11. Heavy Heaven (demo) - Egyptian Hip Hop
12. Stay Close - Delorean
13. Converter - The Helio Sequence
14. Feel It All Around - Washed Out
15. Laura - Mates Of State
16. We Don't Want Your Body - Stars
17. The Early Sheets - The Lost Levels
18. Is This My New Career? - Oucho Sparks

We begin with Pinback doing a mellow intro. Then the MIDI sound kicks in with Monogamy... by The Darchives. Cable TV is a fun track about a fling in a motel featuring some wacky SFX. Then you're treated to a confluence of rock and hip hop by the breakthrough act Inspired Flight. Phantogram picks up the energy and runs with it. Then we get a litle mellow with some old indy faves like Film School, Mates of State and the mighty Shins who turn out some wonderful new stuff. Delorean makes yet another appearance (cant get enough of these Barcas)... who open up nicely to the awesome new song Converter by my all-time favorite band.
But the fun doesn't end there! Washed Out keeps true to their name with their lo-fi soundwaves. You gotta hear a great demo from Egyptian Hip Hop- these dudes sound promising. To top off the list we have an apt noisy-pop track from Stars off their recently-released album, a cool 8-bit sound from Lost Levels (if that isn't the most videogamish of names...) and, to leave the set strongly, the most bad-ass of avant-garde mushroom jazz musicians (I have a hard time classifying these monsters), Oucho Sparks!
~ Doooo it!!!

AvianEddy presents:
I ❤ 8-bit Pixelated Music Playlist

~avian

The Ballad of Reyna and Akio

2010-09-05T16:07:00.000-07:00

I am currently in the process of composing this theme for Dream Eternal. It is called "The Ballad of Reyna and Akio" as I am aiming to convey the journey and dramatic progression of the main characters.
Here it is in its current, working form:

"The Ballad of Reyna and Akio" by AvianEddy

I actually got a chance to play this live at the Semillas de la Paz event as the background music for a short movie they screened depicting our sister city of Juarez. Freddy was accompanying with a steady waltz rhythm on the bongos– that will probably be the next implementation.

"¿Como Te Llamaras?" @ The San Carlos

2010-08-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

Performance by
The Stanton Street Collective
as part of the Semillas de la Paz
Sat. Aug. 28, 2010 at the
San Carlos Building downtown EP

The event was to showcase artists making a mural depicting life in the borderland as well as live performances by comedians and several local music acts including Hijos de Villa, and Rafa Pistolas playing with a new band, The Immigrant Noise.

꜈R꜏G꜌B꜍

2010-08-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

Mixtape #04

Here's a very chill mix of electronic music that verges into the dance/house genre. It has a palpable retro texture throughout but will definitely keep your taste buds piqued.
Highlights are a wondreful live version of Mouth Full of Diamonds by the duo called Phantogram and another live track, Zilwaukee, which I don't think has been released as a studio recording yet, from Detroit-area wunderkind, Deastro. There are also some also lesser-known, but equally impressive, acts in here that will surprise you.

"Zilwaukee" live on KEXP by Deastro

------꜈R꜏G꜌B꜍------

1. Berimbau (Shigeto mix)- Astrud Gilberto
2. White Magic - Pogo
3. Mouth Full of Diamonds (Live) - Phantogram
4. Constant Surprises - Little Dragon
5. 23 - Blonde Redhead
6. Zilwaukee (Live) - Deastro
7. For Paulina - Teen Daze
8. The Truest Faith - Korallreven
9. Leaving Everywhere - Toro Y Moi
10. Forever and Ever Amen - The Drums
11. Odessa - Caribou
12. P.Y.X - G.L.O.V.E.S
13. I Can Change - LCD Soundsystem
14. Real Love -Delorean
15. Ghost Rock (feat. Akane) - AvianEddy
16. Get Frostied - Deastro
17. Folk Rock - Wax Stag
BONUS: Videos for these tracks are available here!

As an homage to bossa nova, which we at Stanton Street are so fond of playing, the set opens with an electronically-enhanced rendition of Astrud Gilberto. Then we are treated to the sampling talents of Assuie DJ Pogo who has captured the world's attention with his Disney-themed mash-ups.
After the beef (the aforementioned highlights) make sure to stick around for the quirky beats in Odessa by Caribou and the break-boy jam P.Y.X. that is sure to get your heads nodding by G.L.O.V.E.S.
Delorean makes their second appearance in my series of mixtapes, as this Spanish-based group is fast-becoming a fave of mine, with a dreamy, lubby-dubby track called Real Love. Then lend me an ear, as AvianEddy humbly presents a very playful, if rough, attempt at electro-pop featuring the talents of his young, loquacious daughter. The boy wonder closes the set with a rare track called Get Frosty. And finally, the coda belongs to Wax Stag, whose Folk Rock I feel closes this mixtape perfectly.

~Until next tape... keep on trackin'

AvianEddy presents:
R. G. B. Chill-Out Playlist
...and don't forget the accompanying videos!!!

~avian

I LOVE Alex Wagner

2010-07-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

Move aside Ana Kasparian, I have discovered a new babe to counter all those airhead, conservative "news"-models. Her name is Alex Wagner. She's a White House Correspondent from Politics Daily and, hot jiminy, is she cuuuuute!

**tickle, tickle, tickle**

Now, there's a liberal cutey-pie I can get in a fight over. Specially after a few pints of Hoegaarden and the barfly's who's been there since noon won't change the channel from @#%* Fox News. "OKAY, so you're STILL angry we have a black president? GET OVER IT– It's been over a year!." But I guess if you're gonna be misinformed, and made a fool of, it may as well be by a pair of legs in a blonde wig.

Foxy News: Non-blondes need not apply
Not much else I know about my new favorite liberal cutey yet... but believe you me, I will be stalking. So Ms. Kasparian, you can withdraw your restraining order now.

24-hour News in Under 2 minutes

2010-07-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

This wonderful little piece by The Onion sums up perfectly what the 24-hour "news" networks are all about. *Rated PG-13 for foul language.

"some bull$#!T happened somewhere" from The Onion

The Nocturnal Suite (Selections) + Remixes

2010-07-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

Mixtape #03

Moodgadget is a relatively new label that is featuring some of the best new talent in the electronic music scene. But it is not limited to electronic music, you'll hear real instruments here clashing and colliding to paint vivid, yet dreamy, musical pictures.

Recently they released a 2-CD set, which I happily picked up, called The Nocturnal Suite (CD1) and The Synchronicity Suite (CD2), respectively. Initially I tried to make a compilation of both CD's but Synchronicity was dreadfully inferior, I'm afraid, and it wound the whole playlist down. So instead I chose to include some highlights from Nocturnal and throw in some remixes to top it off– including two delicious takes on Body Language. Enjoy!

clip from "Damn, I wish I was your lover"

------Nocturnal Suite Selections------

1. Rich Doors - New Villager
2. Summer School - City Center
3. Is This All For Real - Shigeto
4. Good Ideas - Christine
5. Work This City - Body Language
6. Arpeggiating Edgar - Wisp
7. Fresh Kids (Fresh Edit) - Machinedrum
8. Wheel of Fortune - The Landau Orchestra
9. Damn (I Wish I Was Your Lover) - Daniel Johnson
10. Col Ak Ill [Bonus] - Charles Trees
11. Work This City (Yes Gianess Remix) - Body Language
12. At A Glance (Toro Y Moi remix) - Body Language
13. Be My Baby (Boyfriends mix) - The Young Friends
14. Fresh Kids (Mogi Grumbles mix) - Machinedrum
15. Eagle Fantasies (Tom Croose's...) - Mux Mool
16. Forming At The Mouth (Worst Friends remix) - Benoit Pioulard

Moodgadget's The Nocturnals Suite:
Selections + Remixes

~avian

Pee on the bee!

2010-07-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

Splashback has always been a hazard for all of us stand-up-pee'ers . Particularly after a few pints, the hazard becomes a near certainty. The answer comes in the form of our little insect friends. SLOAN has devised a way to keep our bathroom floors clean... relatively... and our inebriated brains entertained while we do our business.

How clever! I mean, just try not to stream on this little guy! It's impossible. You simply HAVE to aim at it.

Drink up, my fellow stand-uppers!

¿Como Te Llamaras? (reggae/cumbia)

2010-06-14T22:05:00.001-07:00

Freddy, Tony, Rich, (not pictured: Eddy)
¡Para todos los que le gustan las cumbias!
Los chicos de Stanton Street Collective traen para ti esta canción:

¿Como Te Llamaras? performed by Stanton St. Collective

(Guitarra: FreeFreddy; saxofón: Richie Rich; bongos: Tonito Paz; bajo, voz, y composición: AvianEddy.)

~freeFreddy

"Glory" improv jam

2010-06-09T07:41:00.000-07:00

Improvisation sometimes yields some interesting result. Here's a little piece that started with a bass riff from Avian; Freddy drops a little melody with his guitar while Tony kept the beat. Rich jumps in with some saxy notes. Please lend an ear... hope you like what you hear.

"Glory" (working title) performed by Stanton Street

~avian

The Nude Mexican

2010-05-16T14:38:00.000-07:00

New Mexico
The home of Navajo code talkers
A safe haven for border hoppers
Who swim through Rio Grande waters
Upon their arrival they wander naked through the night
As they struggle for survival

Hope is vital as the night gets later
A look of pure hate is shot to Mr. Santuario Sanchez Suevocuator
By an angry white discriminator
Santuario Sanchez Suevocuator is naked roaming the night
Much like terminator when he was transported to the past in a time that was safer
Except Santuario Sanchez Suevocuator is trying to get away from his past
To form a future that’s greater
Through the night he sees a sign advertising the BACONATOR
And then another that deeply appealed to him
A bright yellow M

In his mind it represented Mexican
The light had lured him in
Naked as he walked
Drivers & passengers screamed & honked
but he diligently followed the seductive productive McDonald’s
His feet had attained blisters
With each step he was reminded of the struggle bestowed upon his ancestors
His brothers & sisters

He’s at the door now…He enters…
Loud screams from the customers
Piercing screams from pedestrians… “Look at the naked Mexican!!”
A feeling of fear and scorn infests him
People screaming and children crying next to him
It’s as if he has committed the deadliest sin, and it’s only because of his skin

Hated, alienated, and naked
His culture remains sacred, his passion remains fiery
Just as he is about to leave, a worker in the back says “Hey man, we’re hiring!”
He walks up to him, and hands him an application
Joy fills his soul
Oh, what a glorious nation!!

The worker gives him a hamburger to cover up his genitals
The warmth reminds him of the gleaming sun rays of Mexico
Santuario Sanchez Suevocator feels so blessed to know
that the people of New Mexico have come to respect his soul

He is handed the pen
He believes this job is destined because the M stands for Mexican
But then it comes to the question
Are you an American citizen?
When he had checked the “No” box, McDonald’s
Workers marched towards him like robots
They grabbed his application, denied his occupation,
grabbed a gun then started chasin’

As he ran out the door he dropped his burger
It was as if he had committed murder
But his journey proceeded further
Gun shots at his bare feet as he ran naked down the street
New Mexico.
A place of naked immigrants
Some become peasants & some gain the wealth of a prince
Some wander naked, and some are able to make it
New Mexico…New Mexico…New Mexico

Jacob Sandoval
Albuquerque, NM

posted by
~Jeffro

Human Recording, A

2010-04-30T08:29:00.000-07:00

Thurs. April 29
@ The Tequila Garage

After the numerous (and lengthy) acoustic sets, our old boy Rafa, a.k.a Pistolas, took the stage and introduced us to his new sound. Very palatable. These new songs sound promising. As does his new ensemble. Jericho is a monster on the low end– those arpeggios he was busting out were as melodic as you can get from a bass. But we remember his mad, fret-dancing skills from the waning days of Mexicans at Night. What we hadn't been exposed to was Maus. Here's a guy, sporting the coolest blue-toned sunglasses you can get away with after dark, who kept the pulse of the music kicking with an impeccable beat. These guys are going places.

A Human Recording is currently the name of the act, and a fine name it is, in my humble opinion. It has a modest tone to it, and certainly memorable, although Rafa seems shy about it for now. You'll learn to love it, dude...

"...you second-guess yourself too much anyways, brotha'"
In between the new Human Recording songs, Rafa took out a couple of Mexas@Night favorites like "Interludes" and a re-worked, fresher-sounding "Soldier". Jericho performed a little of "Billie Jean," until Rafa changed his mind on that tired cover... no biggie, J can hang. The set came to an amazing close thanks to some friends of the band who went up and performed some impromptu hip-hop. Maus stepped off to allow Tech on the set. Jericho and Rafa played the music from "Smokestacks" (sans the whistle) while Moses and Donnelle traded rhymes and got the crowd jumping– a Smokestacks Remix, I would call it.

That energy they signed off with lasted us all the way to the parking lot across the street, where we all gathered in a huddle to Praise the Lord and talk about their new sounds. Look forward to some actual recordings from these humans.

~avian

"Dead Bastards" / massacre in Baghdad

2010-04-07T09:25:00.000-07:00

Some really FUCKED UP shit goes down in war. Fortunately, most of us will never know first hand but what little we get to see on TV. That, however, must be NOTHING to what our troops face on a daily basis on hostile, foreign soil. So it was even more alarming when we saw the declassified footage of a shooting that took place in Baghdad on July 2007. Among the several innocent Iraqi civilians, two reporters from Reuters were killed.

It was released by WikiLeaks.org. (Go here to read about it and watch the disturbing video.) Well, I took some of the audio and combined it with an eerie, roughed-up soundtrack to make this track I dubbed Dead Bastards.

I'll make no political commentary and withhold judgement because I know next-to-nothing of the circumstance depicted in the video. I took the artistic liberty of eliminating the silences in the audio but other than that, and an echo at the end of the track, what you hear through the intercoms is authentic.

"Dead Bastards" massacre in Baghdad

~avian

"Forgotten Dreams" latest phase

2010-04-05T09:34:00.000-07:00

Back in my Evolote days, I started this composition with my friends Jeffro and AndySpank. I remember telling Andy to play this weird little chord on the rhythm guitar while Jeff picked up a tremendous, rolling beat that broke through like tidal waves. That sounded AWESOME to me. And so finally, I went back in and included my part (bass) with a few more chords and a change-up. For frosting, I even threw in a couple of sound effects paying homage to the bygone era of arcade machines. The result sounds more electronic than I thought, but I actually liked it... hope you do, too.

Evolote circa 2007 (Eddy, Jessy, Jeff, Demitrio)

"Forgotten Dreams" AvianEddy with Evolote

P.s: Now I'm thinking about lyrics but :-/ I'm undecided.
P.p.s: Fans of Earthbound will recognize the sound effects from the arcade in Onett.

~avian

Spring ♣ Fling

2010-03-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

Mixtape #02

Here's a collection of indie pop and electronica. Nothing too mellow, but it will definitely set the mood for a pleasant car ride with that cute girl you carpool with... huh?... what?

Anyways, highlights here are the new Gorillaz track, some Vampire Weekend (which has rapidly turned into an indie staple), and Danger Mouse's collaboration with The Shins' James Mercer– Broken Bells. Lastly, don't overlook Darwin Deez, who's sure to make you tap your feet, and enjoy the retro feel of Empire of the Sun. The set closes with a cover of Sophie B. Hawkins which has become my favorite for reasons unsaid. >:-D

Here's a wonderful track by Freelance Whales called "Starring"

------Spring Fling------

1. The High Road - Broken Bells
2. Starring - Freelance Whales
3. Stylo (Radio edit) - Gorillaz feat. Bobby Womack
4. Run - Vampire Weekend
5. Deli - Delorean
6. Up In The Clouds - Darwin Deez
7. Stone Me - Babyshambles
8. Dipomat's Son - Vampire Weekend
9. Constellations - Darwin Deez
10. Dream of Eva and Chan (abridged) - Dntel & Ben Gibbard
11. Ghost Train - Summer Camp
12. Complications - Broken Social Scene
13. Drink To Moving On - Grand National
14. Walking On A Dream - Empire Of The Sun
15. Low Shoulders - Toro y Moi
16. Damn (I Wish I Was Your Lover) - Daniel Johnson

AvianEddy's Mixtape #02
Spring Fling 2010

F Key for Bossa

2010-03-23T12:18:00.001-07:00

Rich, Freddy, Eddy, and Tony at Medallions

Stanton Street is working on a little Bossa Nova song currently called F Key for Sax since we hope to implement a melodic sax in there and some sax-y lyrics :-D. Here's a little impromptu with Eddy and Freddy [two guitars, two vocals]:

"F Key for Sax" freeFreddy & AvianEddy

when i think too much i think of you
when i try to open my mind
its just no use its just no use
theres no use you got a hold of me
you really got a thing on me

without a count i cant even speak
i cant even act i cant even sleep
all these cats lying around
singin a beauitful song for you
and hold that thought real high
i aint got nothing to give you
but a smile on a rainy day

well it's raining now
wont you pick the phone
i've been calling for hours
tell me what did i do wrong
(we should put a friggin bad-ass hook here)
come back come back come here come herre

its not black and white
i know that things got crazy
i know that these things got muddled too
i'm muddled, too

hey, so many things i'd like
only one thing just give me the words
let them pour from me
lárgate, lárgate

i cant seem to find the words
cant seem to find the way
only that this letter says that,
you know what? i dont think of you
... that often

~freeFreddy

Healthcare Reform, Get Well Soon

2010-03-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

So the Senate killed the Public Option months ago, the GOP is still employing its stalling tactics and the vast majority of the Dem's are too cowardly (or duplicitous) to stand up to them– let alone call them out. And worse yet, The White House is too busy playing nice to argue in favor for Healthcare Reform. (sigh)
It seems "CHANGE" and "HOPE" were fast becoming last year's slogans.

ENTER THE CONGRESSMAN FROM FLORIDA

Congressman Alan Grayson [Central Florida (FL-8)]
YES, there IS hope. There are few among Congress with moral decency and GUTS to go with it like Grayson who will stand up to the bought-out Republicans and the spineless Democrats :

I introduced H.R. 4789, the Public Option Act. This simple four-page bill lets any American buy into Medicare at cost. You want it, you pay for it, you're in. It adds nothing to the deficit; you pay what it costs.

In many areas of the country, one or two insurers have over 80% of the market. They can charge anything they want. And when you get sick, they can flip the bird at you. So we need a public option.

Sign our Petition at WeWantMedicare.com
Thankfully, there ARE public officials who are actually serving THE PUBLIC. Join Grayson's cause (it is OUR cause, afterall)

~avian

Astral ★ Exploration

2010-03-11T16:13:00.000-08:00

Mixtape #01

I proudly present the FIRST in what will become a series of mixtapes: the PERFECT playlist to listen to while star-gazing. This mixtape came about during a recent camping trip when I was thinking about what music would inspire wannabe-astronomers like me. I mean, who doesn't like to look up at the night say and just wonder at what lies beyond? Next time you think about the constellations and the galaxies that form them, swith your iPod™ to this list.

Carl Sagan "Glorious Dawn" mixed by Colorpulse

------Astral * Exploration------

1. Space Jazz 3030 - Cowboy Bebop
2. Ballad of Gloria Featherbottom - Mux Mool
3. See Waves - Nice Nice
4. Country - Empire Of The Sun
5. Exploration - Various Artists
6. Carl Sagan "Glorious Dawn (ft. Stephen Hawking)" - Colorpulse
7. Café Floré - Dr. Rockit
8. Work This City - Body Language
9. Then It Happened - Milosh
10. Mettle - Outputmessage
11. Blurry - Bluejay
12. Counting Stars - Nujabes
13. Carl Sagan "Glorious Dawn" - Mux Mool
14. FUSE - Hudson Mohawke
15. Minors - Toro y Moi
16. To the Lighthouse - Memoryhouse
17. Forgotten Dreams (with Evolote) - AvianEddy

In this mixtape I have placed some space-traversing music that begins with a little jazz. Then, as the rocket ignites, you are catapulted outside the atmosphere thanks to the upbeat techno by Mux Mool and Nice Nice. As your ship slows down to cruising speed, enjoy some Empire of the Sun while you hear some encouraging words by our mentor, Carl Sagan. The late and great astrophysicist makes two appearances here. :-D There's even a guest appearance by yours truly at the end.

Pleasant voyage!

AvianEddy's Mixtape #01
Astral ★ Exploration

Stanton Street Fashionistas

2010-03-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

The Stanton Street Collective had a small show this weekend for our pal David's Fashion Show this Saturday March 7.

It was a bigger spot than we were used to but we pulled it off nicely. Preceding us was Christine singing, with Josh doing bass work, and the mystical Mouse on the drums. Mr. Mouse went on to sub for our beatmaster Tony. Following our set was a great local band called Riboflavin' who performed some impressive hip-hop that sounded like it had heavy influence from People Under the Stairs.

The Stanton Street Collective: Rich, Eddy, Celene, Freddy. (Not pictured: Tony)

I am currently looking for any recording someone may have made. In the meantime, here's a little list of our set:

Freddy's Red Robin
F Key for Sax
Tiene Hambre, Tiene Sed
¿Como te Llamaras?
Avian's Forgotten Dreams
Celene's I Am Leaving You
Celene's Juarez Poem

~avian

Achy Obejas was here

2010-03-04T14:39:00.001-08:00

Achy Obejas, Cuban-American writer, translator, and journalist just recently visited El Paso and UTEP for Women's History Month.

As a journalist, she has received awards for several of her freelance stories written in the Chicago Tribune. In addition, she has earned the Lambda Literary Award for her novels Memory Mambo (1997) and Days of Awe (2002).

After meeting her in person this past Tuesday, I have to say that she has a wonderful and refreshing personality. If you have the opportunity, check out some of her novels.

Bibliography:

"Havana Luna (novel)" (2009) Akashic Books
Ruins (novel) (2009) Akashic Books
Havana Noir (editor) (2007)
This is What Happened In Our Other Life (poetry) (2007)
Days of Awe (2001)
Memory Mambo (1996)
We Came All the Way from Cuba So You Could Dress Like This? (1994)

On Tuesday, she signed several copies of her books for me; during which we had a small conversation. I noticed that in my copy of days of Awe she wrote: "Send me a Poem" with her e-mail. I found it very flattering; yet as soon as she had written this, I felt as though every thing I had ever written in my life was suddenly crap. Of course, I'll follow up though, I just wanted to share.

~ Richie M.

While on the Commute

2010-03-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

On the same lot where I sat and listened to church bells ringing

I saw two pigeons perform necrophilia on one of their fallen comrads

Flattened , formed to the grooves of a tire,

Scabbed over blood ,

Feathers matted to the asphalt

Still the two pigeons stalked and cocked their heads

as they took turns mounting and dominating the carcass.

I'm sure scientist and pigeon psychologists have explanations for this pigeon behavior

Their explanations , I'm sure, are backed by hundreds of books and documented studies

But that doesn't matter to me

I'm on my daily commute

To my left bells resonate a progression

To my right pigeons fuck their dead

From the bell tower, a flock of the feathered rats takes flight

Round and round they go

~Josh F.

Improvisation's the name of the game

2010-03-01T10:09:00.000-08:00

A lot of improvisation going around, lately. Our little project Stanton Street Collective has been getting into some dub. Here's a piece started by our pal Josh Fierro on the bass. Rich is on the sax, I jump in on the guitar, and Freddy's doing the beats:

"Funeral for a Snake" orig. composition by Josh

Super Socks was started by our old friend Andyspank. He had been getting into reggae and during one of our practices I suggested he improvised some reggae rhythms with his guitar. Jeff immediately picked up on the set and the bass part just seemed to flow from me... before we knew it, Jeff and I were singing and jamming along. It was a unique experience I'm glad was captured by Dm3o and his "robot."

"Super Socks" improv reggae jam by Evolote

~Jeffro ~avian ~freeFreddy

2010-02-12T07:32:00.000-08:00

"AvianEddy" Self-Promo Poster

Inspired by the works of graphic designer ISO50, I set out to make a large-format poster. I'm happy with the result and it looks even better in print. Plus, it's kinda big... measuring approx. 24" x 32". Eventually I may use it to promote my design and/or music, who knows. :p

~avian

February Freebie = The Helio Sequence

2010-02-08T08:54:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the month of love and friendship, DodoNest has a nice little present for all y'all. Now, normally I try not to post other musicians' music on here because I feel it is not my job to promote artists that get plenty of attention on the web. But this isn't an official album. It is a very special collection of songs from my favorite band.

Me with Brandon Summers of The Helio Sequence ... wow!
The Helio Sequence holds a very special place in my musical heart. It consists of just two guys: Brandon Summers (singer/guitarist) and Benjamin Weikel (drummer), who make a medley of dreamy melodies combined with aggressive beats. It's pure gold.

That is why DodoNest is sharing this special compilation: an eclectic mix of some of my favorite songs spanning their 4 LP releases, plus a couple of rare bonuses. ***enjoy***

The Helio Sequence: A Very Dodo Mix

Do let me know how you like it :)

~avian

Photon Vampires

2010-01-30T09:50:00.001-08:00

It takes a hydrogen nucleus in the sun 5 billion years
to begin the process of nuclear fusion.
The photon produced by fusion at the core of the sun takes
20,000 years to travel to the surface of the sun.
Photons are light energy.
It takes a photon 8 seconds to travel from the
surface of the sun to earth.

A blade of grass receives a photon from the sun
at the speed of light.
A blade of grass stores the light energy and uses
it to grow through photosynthesis.

It takes a cow 2 days to bite, chew, and digest that blade of grass and, in turn, capture that energy from the sun for the use of generating new cells to grow or to move its muscles and waddle from here to there.
It is the breakfast of champions.

It takes a human 9-13 hours to order, cut, bite, chew,
swallow, and digest the muscles of a cow.
Humans use that energy to grow taller and fly kites
but also to think, create, and destroy.

How do we use the energy transferred from the sun,
to the blade of grass, to the cow, to our bodies?
To ride a bicycle around the block?
To paint a picture?
To whistle a tune?
To pull the trigger of a machine gun
and blow the brains out of an innocent bystander?
To kidnap a 7 year old girl and sell her as a sex slave?

There is no escaping it:
Humans are energy vampires.
What kind of vampire would you like to be?
Would you like to be the sort of vampire that leaves
death and destruction in your path?
Would you like to be the sort of vampire that selects
their source of energy with class and style?
A vampire who uses that energy to leave
beauty and caring in your path?

No matter how much we lie to ourselves, the fact remains
that looking out only for ourselves caused incredible
suffering to blades of grass, cows,and other vampires.

Suffering leads to anger and more destruction.
Would you prefer that the way you transfer energy within you
returns to you in the form of a concerto or an underwear bomb?
A welcome or a death threat?

A blade of grass cannot choose how to use solar fusion.
A cow might know pleasure and fear but has no greater choice.
A human being can choose to create
horror and sorrow or love and beauty.
It is your choice.

~Jeffro Circadian

2010-01-28T14:56:00.001-08:00

Oblivion is Bliss

~mando

What is "indy"?

2010-01-28T08:33:00.001-08:00

What a difficult question. "Indy" has come to define so much in the last few years. It's a musical phase (more on that later), a fashion, a "look" in movies and design, there's even cliques in high schools that refer to themselves as the "Indy" crowd. But what are we talking about, exactly? The color between blue and violet? A slang word for Native Americans? Some kind of tea? WTF?!

So what IS Indy???

Literally, "indy" is short for "independent;" when talking about music, it means your band/act is independent from the support and influence of a major record label. And I say major record label because pretty much anyone with a computer nowadays can record you and call their operation So-and-So Records. You're pretty much on your own, in other words. And this can be both good and bad:

Good – complete artistic freedom. Unfettered, uncensored expression. The best art is natural and uninhibited.
Bad – no help promoting your act, no media exposure (aka: payola). In a vacuum, no one can hear you make music.

So when talking about independent music, the best example that comes to my mind is this little band that hailed from Albuquerqe, NM circa 1990's. They started off as Flake Music.

Look tall, boys, you're on Independent Lens.

Their sound was so fresh and unique they soon developed quite a following. A few single releases and EP's later, Flake Music was Indy music gold. But all of a sudden they disappeared without a trace. They would later reemerge as a re-invented, re-vitalized band and take the underground music scene by storm. Indy geeks will now recognize them as The Shins.

It is worth noting, however, that once a band signs on to a major record label (in this case, Sub Pop) it is technically NOT Indy anymore. Their sound and style may not change that much, but given that they become beholden to record label procedures and requirements they are no longer an independent act. This is why it is erroneous to call "Indy" a genre of music... because it is more like a phase a band goes through. Unless, of course, it never gets a record deal :p.

Nevertheless, we feel attached to their Indy roots. And for a time, at least, we remain referring to The Shins as "Indy." I guess you can call it having street cred.

So there you have it, kids; I hope it's been enlightening... and that next time your cool hipster friends say "that looks indy," you won't be thinking of Indiana.

Must download:
"Blast Valve" by Flake Music

~avian

what's on my mind?

2010-01-26T19:54:00.001-08:00

this nation is on my mind.
its been years since I've last foretold,
vomit disgust in our world be known.
our nation strong and mighty yet convinces otherwise.
what truth be known that we feed our obese mother demise.
our mother the nation.
we look high and mighty with our contradictions.
we spend our dollars on pop and oil.

but beyond this lies music, lies art.
forcing itself upon us...
sweet melodies echo 'round white waves of wisdom.
loud melodies fill my mind as ruptured vessels encourage more.

what lies beyond my door is chaos,
our neighbor "over yonder" turns a blind eye.
what rules the world isn't humble or honest.
its evil, its the metaphor for Satan
that's taken our bliss – our possibilities.

~mando

Space Ovators

2010-01-24T07:25:00.001-08:00

The circumference of the moon
mimics the eye that studies it.
Gravity is friend, never foe
to those with purposeful resignation.
Moving at the speed of crystallization
must be just capital.
It's a ballet of sorts,
in which skillfulness rewards one with molecular applause.
Or perhaps more of an atomic symphony, with all horns equipped with exquisitely crafted fine china plungers.
So controllably mind blowing
to perceive the twinkle in your very fibers,
with fingertips touching all six directions
in due time.
Somewhat of a slow-motion Superfly Jimmy Snuka, if you will.
Colliding with dark matter,
unconsciously creating 1 universe
at 3 beats per measure.
And I think to myself…
what a wonderful world.

~Jeffro Circadian

Can you find the real Zooey?

2010-01-21T15:27:00.000-08:00

OK so you all know about Indie mega star Zooey Deschanel and what a cutie patootie she is. But did you know that whoever, or whatever made her has been pretty busy lately?

Yup, there's an over-abundance of Zooey clones running around Hollywood. So The Dodo Challenge is this:
Identify the REAL Zooey Deschanel
Click here to see the answer

~avian

Love

2010-01-19T12:33:00.001-08:00

When we love, be intelligent, creative, and brave. Understand that the journey into the new is unknown, it cant be known if it is new. SO we must understand what it is to be disciplined, not as in controlling ourselves, but in our ability to learn. Love is only for the courageous.

~freddy

Circadian Backflip (Take Two)

2010-01-17T10:04:00.001-08:00

Rounded angles.
Beachfront property.
Telepenetration on call.
Finding the Jack of Clubs at the bottom of my glass.
Finding my glass at the bottom of the ocean,
completely frozen.
Shatter it instantly and make a million.
Drop trou and last/clash forever.

No such thing as trying enough.
Green oodled mass swimming in my thought pool.
Grab and twist.
Groove and shout.
Put it on the backburner so the frontburner can fly.
Butterfly stroke to the nearest pit-stop.
Top off the fluids and dive for brain candy.
Do the Mash Patatah all over yourself.
Drive it inward toward the warrior core.
Not the hardest goddamn thing around, but it'll do,

Downward movement,
in the shape of a uniformly 4-dimensional anchor.
Fast descent coupled with smooth convection.
Soft warm orange curling simultaneously in two directions.
No Questions,
only MOVEment.
Only moveMENT.
It's now the moment.
Just as it always has been.
Now I see it.

~Jeffro

2 Democrats Who Are Kicking Butt

2010-01-15T07:51:00.000-08:00

Rep. Alan Grayson (D-FL)

I think we'll hear Republicans claim that the Bush administration managed the economy quite well — except when they brought it to the brink of national bankruptcy. In fact, they'll claim that the Bush-Cheney administration was a complete success, except for the fact that it was an abject failure."
Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-NY)

We keep hearing them squeal like pigs in the Senate that they had a tough time getting to sixty... the Senate kabuki dance has lost its magic on those of us in the House."

~avian

Is it cold in here?

2010-01-11T15:08:00.000-08:00

Or is it just me?
Breaking away from the trend, this winter brought us the chill. Beautiful.
So here's a brand-new homemade track to make you go brrrrr:

Is it cold in here?.mp3

ps. i really need to get together with a drummer

Color Correction Basics

2010-01-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

The Clipping Path

Most designers, be it web or print, know how to make a clipping path. And it goes without saying that most that can create a clipping path know how to activate them. But I am writing this with the laymen in mind and sort of a refresher for those of us that may not know certain little tricks that may expedite the clipping process (We all know clipping is time consuming).

Clipping paths are among the most important and effective tools in your Photoshopping arsenal and they are your basic foundation when it comes to color correction. Lets start with an image. One, say, like this:

It helps to start with something simple and work your way to more complicated items. You want your clipping path to be as tight as possible. This is important because you need the item to stand out for whatever you are creating without looking sloppy or having rough discolored edges. It helps to work in channels. For web designers, of course, you would be checking your RGB channels and for Print you will be checking your CMYK channels. Depending on the image start by turning your channels off and checking one each at a time. See which best suits your clipping needs. For example in this image here notice the (M) channel or Magenta has more defined edges for you to grab.

The background slips away and makes it easier to see when clipping. Notice the (K) channel is too light and the image blends in too much with the background.

(Hot Keys for channels: command + 1(C/R), or 2(M/G), or 3(Y/B), or 4(K))

Using the magenta channel, (command + 2) we start our path.
Tip #1: Start by clipping the outline of your whole image. Why? Because you can copy and paste this path over and over again and cut pieces and parts out that you may not need when outlining the details of your image.

For example, I am going to separate the red top and bottom of the gumball machine from the bulb and dial eventually so its easy to change the color or adjust its highlights and shadows. With my outline already done I can cut out the clear bulb and dial by copying the original outline or path and pasting it then proceed to delete the bulb part of the outline and finish outlining the top and bottom separately. (see example below) Use your direct selection tool to highlight and delete segments of your path be sure to only select one segment at a time always re-highlight your segment before you select another segment of path to delete or you will delete the whole thing. Proceed to finish the path off with the new part you are outlining.

Tip: NAME YOUR PATHS! (i.e. Outline, Top, Bottom, Dial, Detail, Highlight) if you do not you will not be able to copy and paste or you may run the risk of creating new paths over older ones.

Well that is it with this segment of Color Correction Basics. Tune in next week for the next installment: Highlights, shadows, and the Channel mixer!

~J-Biz

2010-01-05T20:32:00.001-08:00

Ronald Grrr

mira, es un mostro

~mando

action

2010-01-04T22:47:00.001-08:00

Stones live in a deep sleep.
Animals live in a dream.
Humans are maybe awake,
but too many live like animals,
and too many act like stones.
But when the whole is awakened
it is all the same thing.

~freddy

Build a FAN-base not a "friend"-base

2010-01-04T13:09:00.000-08:00

Do bands make websites anymore?
Or do they all cop out with a Myspace?

When I want some find out more about a new act, I want to see their talent and originality. Instead I get pelted with ads to make a virtual self or join the Mafia Wars. AAAgghh!!! That's one way to guarantee I never click your link again.

"Here We Are," Echodrone proclaims, on their lackluster webpage.
Ummm... No, you are not :(
C'mon – Let's see some effort here, guys! Showcase your music and your inspiration, post a bio, make a nice unique webpage.... build a FANBASE not a "friend"base.

~avian

2010-01-04T09:31:00.001-08:00

The Headmaster

Nefarious plans are a-brewing
Don't believe me? Just look at this pose– this here's a SCHEMING pose

~mando

the world in unison

2010-01-01T18:51:00.001-08:00

This is the first day of the year and I want to declare my excitement! Love and energy is the fire that perfects! :D

~freddy

He sold you HOPE...

2009-12-17T14:51:00.000-08:00

...then told you "NOPE"

Alas,
To those who dared to hope,
it's another politician– just another dope.

When the going got tough,
the tough got owned.

Looks like "change we can believe in"
will have to be postponed.

~avian

"No Fair" – comic strip

2009-12-14T09:15:00.000-08:00

Mando and Eddy are working on this little piece called No Fair. (click the pic, to zoom in)

It introduces a signature character, Mr. Yeah, as well as the hero and protagonist, Captain Retardo.
Posted is page 2, introducing a minor villain, Kaota the Ninja.
If you would like to read the entire comic, currently in its pencil phase, a PDF is available for download .

Wild Mood Swings (Extended Edition)

2009-12-12T12:58:00.000-08:00

The perfect winter album, in my humble opinion.
Now available with bonus content! Get it now,
before the official "Deluxe" edition comes out... eventually.

1. Want
2. Adonis*
3. Mint Car
4. Round and round
5. Gone!
6. The 13th
7. Strange Attraction
8. Numb
9. Home*
10. This is a lie
11. Jupiter's Crash
12. Ocean*
13. Return
14. Trap
15. Waiting*
16. Treasure
17. Bare
18. It Used to Be Me*
19. A Pink Dream*

DodoNest presents:
Wild Mood Swings
(Extended Edition)

Forgotten Dreams

2009-12-12T09:09:00.000-08:00

I'm working on a song that just seems to come back over and over every time I pick up my bass. I've decided to call it Forgotten Dreams... I still need a drummer to make an awesome 3/4 tempo to go with it. Please take a listen, I would appreciate some input.

Forgotten Dreams.mp3

The Oh-oh's

2009-12-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

The two-thousands, the zero's, the aughts (wtf?) Paul Krugman dubbed it The Big Zero... whatever this decade will be called– it's going bye-bye. And not a year too soon.... good bye and good riddance. This decade sucked balls!

Here's why:

The Bush Administration

Nothing says "fuck you, voters" like having the President elected for you by a vulture-headed old fart (no offense to vultures). That "Dubya" turned out to be the most careless and most incompetent executive is a foregone conclusion. Most unfortunate, however, is the mess he left behind. We're still paying for that mistake.

9-11
nuff said

Katrina Disaster
You've seen the photos. You saw the reports of the sheer hopelessness of those it affected. All our prez could express was, "Brownie, you're doing a heck of a job!"

Recession of '08
As if we needed more stress that year. Dealing with the threat of Bush Pt. III and a Barbie-doll VP, here comes Wall Street bursting at the seams.

Bernie Madoff
...made off with all your moneys, If you were an investor

Bank Bailout
If you weren't an investor, they made off with all your moneys :(
Neo-capitalism: privatize the profits, socialize the losses.

New Music
If there was any consolation to the masses it was in the emerging indie music scene. Ahhh this was the decade that brought us The Postal Service, Helio Sequence, Broken Social Scene, Belle and Sebastian, Gorillaz, Badly Drawn Boy... plus we got tons of new stuff from established acts like Modest Mouse and Radiohead.

Other than that, however, it was gloom and doom through and through...

The Oh-oh's–– we're glad to see you go-go!

AvianEddy's 1st Ever Single

2009-11-09T13:35:00.000-08:00

This track is called Pajarox or Mixing Molecules with Glass. It's my first-ever attempt at a 'single,' so take that for what it's worth.

"Pajarox / Mixing Molecules with Glass"

Aerony [EP]

2009-11-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

AvianEddy's self-produced EP:
Ærony

1- H5N1
2- Run Rabbit Bird Fly
3- Sweet Lime, Sour Lemon
4- Beg/Win
5- Malaysian Dub
6- Slow March to the End
7- Our Gears Spent Together
8- Mixing Molecules with Glass

AErony [EP]
(approx. 8MB)

~avian

Día De Los Muertos

2009-10-31T13:52:00.000-07:00

This is a poster I made for Radio La Chusma for a Day of the Dead music festival. I am now using it as artwork for our eponymous song.

(Right-click the picture above, Save Link As...)

Evolote "Desert Dub"

2008-06-19T11:19:00.000-07:00

Evolote was a small musical project headed by Jeff Sisneros, Demitrio Lara, and Eddy Soto. From El Paso TX, this band was active for a couple of years starting in late 2005. They would invite friends to participate and recorded various jam sessions on "The Robot".

Desert Dub was how a friend of the band described their sound... this stuck, and became the unofficial title for this compilation: a set of 20 songs and outtakes.

Enjoy : )

------Ǝvolote - Desert Dub------

1. Deep Dive / Ǝvolote
2. Non Verbal Solution (feat. AndySpank)
3. Slow-motion Creeper
4. Iron Locust
5. Money-Bread Part 1
6. Diggin' It In Your Slow Soul (early ver)
7. Don't Be a Fuddy Duddy
8. Rastaman Showdown
9. Dia de los Muertos
10. Money-Bread Part 2 (feat. Jeffflow)
11. The Flux Duwopitor
12. Super Socks
13. Diggin' It (feat. Sistrine Liz)
14. Non Verbal Cues (early ver)
15. Incantation
16. Being a Fuddy Duddy
17. Recantation
18. Bye Bye, Baby
19. Triple Bypass
20. The Toad on the Throne

Ǝvolote Desert Dub
(size: 77.7 MB)

Before the Dodo's Extinct... Again

2008-05-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

This weblog (or "blog," if you will) will attempt to put in writing the random ramblings and musings of the last dodo.

This dodo has the distinct advantage of knowing its outcome: it will, inevitably, expire. It will, one day, be gone forever. But hopefully a small print will remain– a small record of its observations of this world that has moved beyond it.

So what are the dodo dropppings? Small bits of fecal matter? Yes. The dodo has roamed the city streets, been inside banks and office buildings, ordered pizza, and even watched television. All this has been ingested and over time excreted here for you to peruse.

Happy Pickings!