Sorry that I haven't kept the weekly regiment of posting a new CD, last week I had too many responsibilities here to get any drawing and scanning done.

As can be seen the website has changed; a new and exciting project is beginning to materialize. If all goes according to plan this will soon be the home of great art and music from many talented individuals.

I have been lucky enough to see Jolie Holland perform a handful of times in the past few years and I had been looking forward to seeing her when she came through Portland a few weeks ago. As always I was struck by her presence and ability as a musician. It has been a while since I have stood captivated by someone on stage, and I realized how much I needed and missed it. Her new album is good and I would recommend it to anyone.

I have also just had the pleasure of listening to the entirety of Ryland Bouchard's upcoming release, Seeds, and it is good too. Yes, I work with him to run his label and yes, I'm biased, but plain and simple, I wouldn't recommend it if I didn't like it. If you don't believe me, listen for yourself:

Listen:Another Day #2

Quasi Hot Shit

The first Quasi CD I owned was the more recent, When The Going Gets Dark, a great CD where Janet Weiss has the space to really demonstrate her dexterity on the drums. It is a treat indeed.

When The Going is louder, angrier and harder than the more optimistic Hot Shit. Both have their share of wonderful moments. Sam Coomes has the ability in both to express much through his voice. Musically, the combination of drums and piano offer a lovely array of musical combinations that fit together nicely.

Blackalicious Powers

One thing you may not know about me is that I love me some hip hop. If I were one for rankings, Blackalicious would be high on my list. I find delight in all of their albums, and each I feel has a separate character. Nia will eternally hold a special place in my alphebatized CD collection but Blackalicious hit it out of the ballpark with the excitement, energy and intelligence of Powers. 'Side To Side' will rouse anyone to their feet and if you put 'Powers' on a mix-tape for someone you have a crush on I promise they'll be yours (well, not promise, but it worked for me). Although, the drawing may seem unrelated it comes from my favorite lyric.