FITZ!!

Good morning, Christy. Now to drink my coffee and read your post :)

‘Morning, FirePups. Hard frost here, after that brilliant harvest moon that woke me at 4am. Heavy mist hanging in the air over the pond this morning, geese flying sporadically overhead to the nearby reserve.

Looks like TRex fought off the urge to go shoe shopping after all, what with Jane’s powerful disincentive program. Heh.

Okay, I give props to Paul Lukasiak, who was itching yesterday about the Trandahl story. I didn’t realize the man had lawyered up, makes a difference; if somebody wasn’t a player, he’d have no need of a lawyer.

And since when do these elephants get lawyers to protect themselves from one another? But Fordham’s lawyered up, too.

Hmm. Too much smoke, must be a fire.

So who’s the other Congressional staffer that’s oome forward and gotten Fordham’s back? And where does Trandahl fit in between Fordham and Palmer?

Damn, I’m going to have to buy some popcorn futures.

And now to give thought to meditational muses…

Attended a forum on “the church in the public square” last night. One of the speakers was the president of the Ohio Restoration Project. I’ve written up some of it here, and added a couple links.

http://howardempowered.blogspot.com

Rayne at 3 — I’ve been giving popcorn some thought myself today. There’s a lot of news this morning, and all of it raises more questions…

I’ve just sat here for five minutes racking my brain, and it occurs to me that I just don’t play music and just relax anymore, which is rather sad.

The only thing that springs immediately to mind is Mike Oldfied’s “Tubular Bells”, which most Americans recognize as the theme to “The Excorcist”, which is unfortunate, because there’s a lot more to it than that.

Renee at 4 — that sounds very interesting. I can only imagine how difficult it must be leading a church at the moment, and being squeezed between your mission of spiritual guidance and the secular push to use your congregation for political means from a whole lot of folks who don’t really have the spiritual in mind so much as keeping the power and money train going. That must be incredibly frustrating…and it is a door that is awfully tough to close once it has been opened.

My current soundtrack is “John Barleycorn Must Die” – Traffic – that’s how old I am. Alternating with anything Glen Gould. Then again, I am seriously seeking a copy of the Linde Consort recording of the Brandenburgs plus A Musical Offering (maybe not quite the title – I’m on a different computer, using IE, and don’t know how to open multiple browsers).

Moon was wonderful last night. Crisp, clear morning here in the White Mountains.

PeteCO at 6 — I realized that, too, a few months ago, and I’ve been trying to consciously do a better job of giving myself some down time away from the news where I can. Otherwise, what I get is a weird combination of news and cartoons/kids movies (thank you, Peanut!) — none of which is altogether restorative over the long haul.

Music…oh my. There’s so much. Lately, I’ve been listening to Cat Stevens for motivation. For relaxation/meditation..Beethoven Symphony No. 6, particularly the allegreto movement.

Hi Christy:

Debussy, and Mozart, and Yo Yo Ma cello suites in the style of Bach and Silk Road Journeys, and Loreena McKinnett, and a great album entitled Officium by Jan Garbarek

did you clear that list with FDL’s resident music guru Donita Sparks?

Christy, one of the things that really struck us was how oppressed some of these people feel. And so convinced that the “secularists” have taken control of America. This guy said that Evangelical Christians often don’t *want* to get into politics, but they feel reluctantly pulled in by what’s going on in society. But it’s my experience of a lot of left-leaning religious people (myself included) that we’d rather not *have* to “get political” about our faith, except that we weren’t seeing tolerant/inclusive faith represented.

PeteCO @ 5

I’ve just sat here for five minutes racking my brain, and it occurs to me that I just don’t play music and just relax anymore, which is rather sad.

The only thing that springs immediately to mind is Mike Oldfied’s “Tubular Bells”, which most Americans recognize as the theme to “The Excorcist”, which is unfortunate, because there’s a lot more to it than that.

Pete, have you heard Tubular Bells III? It’s awesome…and if you discount one piece right in the middle, which (to me) spoils the continuity, you can count it as one whole work.

Christy Hardin Smith @ 9

PeteCO at 6 — I realized that, too, a few months ago, and I’ve been trying to consciously do a better job of giving myself some down time away from the news where I can. Otherwise, what I get is a weird combination of news and cartoons/kids movies (thank you, Peanut!) — none of which is altogether restorative over the long haul.

I honestly don’t know how you do it. We had our three-and a half year old niece over for brunch last weekend and she wore me out in three hours.

I occurs to me that the older I get, the more I like silence.

got epu’d on Donita’s thread yesterday:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vUPZGGOQGY

This girl can sing. Don’t know why she never “crossed over.” When she departs from the twang and goes blues-y, she’s awesome.

(Nothing agains twang, please understand).

OfT, and EPU’d but

A GREAT LOSS FOR AMERICA

Former Negro Leaguer O’Neil dies

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Buck O’Neil, the goodwill ambassador for the Negro Leagues who fell one vote shy of the Hall of Fame, died Friday night. He was 94.

Bob Kendrick, marketing director for the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, said O’Neil died at a Kansas City hospital.

A star in the Negro Leagues who barnstormed with Satchel Paige, O’Neil later became the first black coach in the majors. Baseball was his life — in July, he batted in a minor-league All-Star Game.

O’Neil had appeared strong until early August, when he was hospitalized for what was described as “fatigue.” He was released a few days later but readmitted Sept. 17. Friends said that he had lost his voice along with his strength. No cause of death was immediately given……..

The word “tough” is overused.

In this case, however, it applies to Buck O’Neil. He non-violently fought some of the worst injustice this nation had, legalized white supremacy (Jim Crow laws), with courage, grace, and humor.

AFAIK, Ken Burns first brought national attention to O’Neil with his PBS documentary on Baseball. Anyone who listened to him talk about baseball and his respect and love for all players, regardless of ethnicity, will not forget him.

Also EPU’d

prostratedragon says:
October 7th, 2006 at 5:27 am *

Buck O’Neill!

Just heard it. Second JCaspar. Maybe someone will replay his story of why Satchel Paige called him ‘Nancy.’ The transcript is in this PBS interview, but you really have to hear him tell it.

LindyH @ 13

PeteCO @ 5

I’ve just sat here for five minutes racking my brain, and it occurs to me that I just don’t play music and just relax anymore, which is rather sad.

The only thing that springs immediately to mind is Mike Oldfied’s “Tubular Bells”, which most Americans recognize as the theme to “The Excorcist”, which is unfortunate, because there’s a lot more to it than that.

Pete, have you heard Tubular Bells III? It’s awesome…and if you discount one piece right in the middle, which (to me) spoils the continuity, you can count it as one whole work.

No, I haven’t. Does anyone else find that the stuff they listened to when they were younger is always better than anything new, or is that just me?

“Spitzer Vows to Push for Gay Marriage in New York” Yea NY, Yea voting Nov.7, BOOOOOOOOO Bush!
“If elected, Mr. Spitzer, a Democrat, would be the most prominent state official in the nation to call for the legalization of gay marriage” NYTimes today. Optimism!
I’m optimistic can you believe that.

Had we known this about the speaker, my husband would have had to find a way to bring it up in the Q and A.

http://www.thenation.com/blogs/thebeat?pid=106378

lina at 15 — I love Wynona’s voice — that sort of soulful, husky tone that she has, with that edge of ache in every song. Love it. (And I happen to like quite a bit of country music — there are some amazing female singers in the genre, including one of my other faves, Martina McBride).

Greetings & Salutations!
——-
Such a pleasure to once again be able to ‘pull up a chair’….
Highway 61 Revisited
Electric LadyLand (esp. Voodoo Chile–>>Slight Return)
Soundtrack to ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’

…and a as a resident DeadHead, just about anything listed here:
http://arts.ucsc.edu/Gdead/AGDL

———–
Seems like the last few weeks have been similar to mine, Ms. Hardin Smith. Keep smilin, though.

Sorry, OfT for anyone interested, Buck O’Neil, the great Negro League player, coach and ambassador passed at the age of 94. prostratedragon and I left some links at the bottom of the last thread. I tried to transfer them, but they either were lost or went into moderation.

Good Morning Christy

I’m laying here in bed (thank you DSL) hoping to catch up on all the great news. Man, this is taking alot of turns.

Someone yesterday called it KARMAgeddon. Thought that was so clever.

Hi! uh I wish to say I’m sorry for leaving a really weird post a few weeks back I tend to get paranoid sometimes when I drink and say things that make sense only to myself. If any of you were offended then take comfort that I am embarrased. I think saying sorry is my only means of making things right. Also before I post here again I thought I would check with you all first.

For that morning pick-me-up: The three ingredients of a perfect balanced breakfast are:
1. Black coffee
2. The sports section
3. Total silence
After 30 minutes, you’re ready to roll.

Does anyone else, aside from me, like Leonard Cohen’s work? When I mention his stuff to anyone, they almost always say “who’s he?”

THe soundtrack of Gladiator.

And jazz. Any jazz. CDs. Channel 850 on DirecTV. And my Duke Ellington vinyls.

There is some sad news, the great baseball player Buck O’Neil,
died. He was almost 95, and very active until last August.
He was a great player and managed the Kansas City Monarchs.
Hired by the Chicago Cubs in 1962, he was the first
African-American coach in the major leagues.

Ernie Banks, who hit 500 home runs for the Cubs,
was known for the quote, “It’s a beautiful day. Let’s
play two.” Banks said, “I learned that from Buck O’Neil.”
Perhaps the worst injustice he had to endure was
being denied entrance into the Baseball Hall of Fame
this year. Some quotes from Buck, “Hatred, it doesn’t
make any sense.”, “Moving is the opposite of dying.”,
and “I hugged Hillary.”

Joh Casper–
Heard Buck O’Neil on WFAN Mike/Dog show tell some hilarious stories when the players and Jazz artists shared (segregated) hotels. Duke Ellington and other folks watched game during day, then teams went to clubs for latenight action. All went back to hotel to hang out, have fun, tell stories, etc.

Renee in Ohio @ 18

Had we known this about the speaker, my husband would have had to find a way to bring it up in the Q and A.

http://www.thenation.com/blogs/thebeat?pid=106378

How long are they going to keep going to that particular well? At this rate, everyone will be gay!

PeteCO @ 15

LindyH @ 13

PeteCO @ 5

I’ve just sat here for five minutes racking my brain, and it occurs to me that I just don’t play music and just relax anymore, which is rather sad.

The only thing that springs immediately to mind is Mike Oldfied’s “Tubular Bells”, which most Americans recognize as the theme to “The Excorcist”, which is unfortunate, because there’s a lot more to it than that.

Pete, have you heard Tubular Bells III? It’s awesome…and if you discount one piece right in the middle, which (to me) spoils the continuity, you can count it as one whole work.

No, I haven’t. Does anyone else find that the stuff they listened to when they were younger is always better than anything new, or is that just me?

Not just you, but thanks to my daughter I rediscovered Mike Oldfield. And thanks to someone here, I discovered MOSH! even though it’s not normally my thing (it’s GREAT motivation).

Prairie Sunshine @ 26

THe soundtrack of Gladiator.

And jazz. Any jazz. CDs. Channel 850 on DirecTV. And my Duke Ellington vinyls.

Probably no excuse that we haven’t had a meet-up, young lady!

Blank at 20 — we’ve got some old friends coming over today for a sort of mini-reunion, and I’m really looking forward to it. Am rushing around here this morning getting food ready, and trying to keep up with the news, get some articles ready for you guys, and hanging with The Peanut all at the same time. Whew! But one glance out the window at the gorgeous day we are having, with the leaves just on the cusp of bursting into the awesome color of Fall…and a look around this house of ours that I love, and a quick smooch on The Peanut’s precious forehead…and all is right with the world. No matter what is going on around me, or in the greater world, a little hug with The Peanut makes it all right again.

(Which, incidentally, is why this photo on CNN this morning was such a punch in the gut. Sometimes, it is all too much to bear, isn’t it?)

Your music was just the thing this morning. A month of school gone, a three day weekend, Foley and the election in full swing, but for me a welcome respite. I started following the links you provided – the Celts, the Norse, the Japanese train movie bit, then the acoustic guitar – track after track on Amazon – I know some of these tracks well – I remembered as I listened that I used to play classical guitar – yeah I’m old – at first I resisted the music – didn’t want to go there – many a year spent singing or playing – then I started weeping – heartpain flushing out – that’s the best way – get it out – a step along the way this weekend – better than coffee – thanks again

As Quincy Jones put it, there’s too much music. But …

Arvo Pärt, almost anything;
“The Plateaux of Mirrors” or “Ambient 4: On Land,” Brian Eno, repeat as needed;
“Eternal,” Branford Marsalis;
most solo piano music;
most trio jazz.

If none of those works, try nothing.

Frank33 @ 27

There is some sad news, the great baseball player Buck O’Neil,
died. He was almost 95, and very active until last August.
He was a great player and managed the Kansas City Monarchs.
Hired by the Chicago Cubs in 1962, he was the first
African-American coach in the major leagues.

Ernie Banks, who hit 500 home runs for the Cubs,
was known for the quote, “It’s a beautiful day. Let’s
play two.” Banks said, “I learned that from Buck O’Neil.”
Perhaps the worst injustice he had to endure was
being denied entrance into the Baseball Hall of Fame
this year. Some quotes from Buck, “Hatred, it doesn’t
make any sense.”, “Moving is the opposite of dying.”,
and “I hugged Hillary.”

Is he the guy behind the Negro Leagues baseball museum in Kansas City? My wife and I visited a few years ago, it was cool.

Before I take off, I wanted to note that one of the other speakers last night was Eric Williams, who was part of filing the IRS complaint against the Blackwell-backing churches. He didn’t talk about the complaint last night, but he gave a great talk.

http://www.dispatch.com/print_…..A1-00.html

More later.

John at 21 — Oh, that is such sad news. Buck O’Neil was truly a giant of a man in terms of character, and his denial from the Hall of Fame was so wrong. That it will now have to be rectified only after his death is painful.

Keith Olbermann paid tribute to O’Neil in February and interviewed the gentleman at least one time on Countdown…

Here’s something he wrote:

He was an overnight celebrity at the age of 84, turned into one of the faces of baseball by the Ken Burns documentary.

Buck O’Neil — a living link to the great stars who were prevented from reaching the Major Leagues because of the color barrier that would not fall until 1947. Himself Jackie Robinson’s teammate with the legendary Kansas City Monarchs, later their manager. Even now, at the age of 94, one of the great ambassadors of any sport. And yesterday, baseball might as well have told Buck O’Neill to get lost.

Yesterday was the day the game elected to its Hall of Fame, 17 heroes of the era of the “Negro Leagues.” The last such election scheduled. Ever. And Buck O’Neill was not elected.

A special committee first selected 94 candidates… Then pared it down to 39 finalists… Then yesterday announced the 17 inductees. O’Neil didn’t make the cut. Nor did Minnie Minoso — himself prevented from playing in the majors until he was 27 years old because of the color of his skin. Minoso went on to record the sixth highest batting average in all of baseball during the prime of his career, 1951 through 1963.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11478921/

m0ropeza at 23 — no sweat — post away, but maybe avoid the drinking when you do so? *g*

Any Jean Michelle Jarre fans out there? I particularly like Zoolook as a chill-out soundtrack.

Thank you!

Unfortunatly, like many others, it seems i rarely have enough time to actually “relax” anymore. Work consumes too much of my time during the week, and of course I must catch up on the TV shows that I miss when I am at work.

However, when I do have the time to sit read and relax, my personal favorites are Ludwig van’s 9th and Pink’s “Wish You Were Here”.

russael at 32 — glad you enjoyed the links. I could have done another 20 or so…if you didn’t listen to the tracks on Officium (the Norske one), do, they are amazing in terms of clearing out the dross.

Mornin’ everyone…

After a week like we all just had, I put on Soulfood’s Yoga Groove and drift gently into the rhythms.

Christy Hardin Smith @ 19

lina at 15 — I love Wynona’s voice — that sort of soulful, husky tone that she has, with that edge of ache in every song. Love it. (And I happen to like quite a bit of country music — there are some amazing female singers in the genre, including one of my other faves, Martina McBride).

Yes. And Reba McIntyre (sp?) and of course Dolly Parton.

I don’t understand why Faith Hill gets all the cross-over success and a talent like Wynnona does not.

Molly Ivins: Return of the War Criminal

http://www.truthdig.com/report…..kissinger/

Oklahoma kiddo @ 25

Does anyone else, aside from me, like Leonard Cohen’s work? When I mention his stuff to anyone, they almost always say “who’s he?”

I love his work, very much.

pure poetry with guts.

A great source for getting out of music ruts and hearing some amazing stuff is David Byrne’s online radio. It’s at his web site. He puts up two to three hours of streaming music a month. Very eclectic. This month is Instrumental Miniatures, the sort of instrumental singles they don’t play on the radio anymore. Previous months have included a three part history of Cuban and Latin music, Classic Country (Merle, Patsy, Dolly and Hank), Disco, and so on.

Truly an amazing gift from the man.

There’s loads of good new Celtic music on myspace, including the chill-out variety. It’s easy to spend hour after hour surfing and listening, so I’ll just give a couple of starting points and you can go on browsing from there to find your own new favorites.

http://www.myspace.com/rachelhair

http://www.myspace.com/michaelgrose

What if the Democrats win control of Congress?

or the shorter version

Can Bush be stopped?

In regard to the results we want and expect for November’s elections, I elected (I know, a poor pun *g*) to do a little crystal ball gazing.

The question I pondered was what would be the net effect of the Democrats winning majorities in either the House or both the House and Senate, and whether such Democratic control would be effective in stopping the Bush assault on our Constitution and on our Federal system of checks and balances with 3 co-equal branches of government.

My analysis: The best we can hope for is to stalemate some of the Bush Unilateral Executive usurpation of power.

Impeachment

It is practically impossible for the Democrats to impeach Bush since that would require a 2/3 majority of the Senate. Since the Republicans now have 55 Senate seats and only 15 of those are in play for this election, even if they lost all 15 seats, the Republicans would still have 40 seats in the Senate which would give them 6 more than is necessary to defeat impeachment.

The Supreme Court

If the Democrats win control of the Senate by getting a net gain of 6 seats (for a total of 51 seats), the Democrats can prevent any Bush nominee from being approved for the Supreme Court.

However, Bush could use a recess appointment to the Supreme Court to bypass a disapproving Senate. This is not all unlikely given past Bush history. Nor is it without precedent. Per Wikipedia, “George Washington appointed South Carolina judge John Rutledge as Chief Justice of the United States during a congressional recess in 1795″.

In addition, it is not beyond the realm of possibility that Bush could attempt to “pack” the Supreme Court by increasing the size of the court using a “lame-duck” Republican majority in both houses. Coupled with recess appointments, one can imagine the impact of this on such current issues as “Domestic Surveillance without Warrants” and “Detainee Rights”, etc.

The Purse

This is an area where a Democratic majority in even one house might have the biggest impact. I say “might” because it is an area of unknown, and perhaps unintended consequences. For example, just what funding could/would a Democratic majority target? The budget of the Defense Department? Would that mean hundreds of thousands of service members and their families would not get paid?

Or how about the Justice Department. Would that mean every FBI agent gets layed off with no pay? Probably not too hot for law enforcement.

In essence, I view the “Purse” option as a punishment-only option, and with potential severe rebound repercussions for Democrats.

So in closing, I reiterate that I believe the best we can hope for with a Democratic majority is 2 years stalemating some of Bush’s efforts by voting down his bills.

But even with that, it will not be a bed of roses for Democrats, since Bush and the Republicans will still have plenty of firepower and ammunition.

*Sigh*…whoever said this would be easy? Well, the fight is still worth it!

As TRex is fond of saying, “ATTACK, ATTACK!!!”.

John Casper @
21

Sorry, OfT for anyone interested, Buck O’Neil, the great Negro League player, coach and ambassador passed at the age of 94. prostratedragon and I left some links at the bottom of the last thread. I tried to transfer them, but they either were lost or went into moderation.

In my comment I referred to Buck O’Neil’s story of how Satchel Paige came to call him “Nancy.” (You can just about guess some of the ingredients.) I’ve now recalled where I heard Mr. O’Neil tell a near-definitive version, which is to cry, as a Francophone friend of mine would put it. It was on Chicago public TV, WTTW, and the interview was done by John Calloway. Maybe it will turn up in the next few days.

Christy–
(CNn linked photo)Indeed. And, heartbreakingly, our tax-dollarz @ work.
——-
Hope the hostessing ReddHedd is fit as a FDL, and day goes great. Missed all the folks ’round these parts.

This past 7 days is just surreal for rubber-stamp scandalizing.
——
This bloody kbd has stickies/skippies; mouse should be forced to pass a field sobriety test.
But, free is free. Even if XP. (Could soon be wiped in favor of Linux…if this user can finagle the delicate details.)
——
Oh, and Yanks could go down. Warms the Kludge heart on a crisp AM.
—–
Peace.

angie @ 36

Keith Olbermann paid tribute to O’Neil in February and interviewed the gentleman at least one time on Countdown…

Here’s something he wrote:

He was an overnight celebrity at the age of 84, turned into one of the faces of baseball by the Ken Burns documentary.

Buck O’Neil — a living link to the great stars who were prevented from reaching the Major Leagues because of the color barrier that would not fall until 1947. Himself Jackie Robinson’s teammate with the legendary Kansas City Monarchs, later their manager. Even now, at the age of 94, one of the great ambassadors of any sport. And yesterday, baseball might as well have told Buck O’Neill to get lost.

Yesterday was the day the game elected to its Hall of Fame, 17 heroes of the era of the “Negro Leagues.” The last such election scheduled. Ever. And Buck O’Neill was not elected.

A special committee first selected 94 candidates… Then pared it down to 39 finalists… Then yesterday announced the 17 inductees. O’Neil didn’t make the cut. Nor did Minnie Minoso — himself prevented from playing in the majors until he was 27 years old because of the color of his skin. Minoso went on to record the sixth highest batting average in all of baseball during the prime of his career, 1951 through 1963.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11478921/

Every once in awhile OETA (Ok. PBS) reruns a special on the “Negro Leagues”. It’s really quite good. Perhaps you’ve seen it.

I’m back to listening to k.d. lang and Lyle Lovett. I went to see the Black Dahalia last week, and k.d. has a cameo. I had gotten away from her soaring vocals, and her self-described torch and twang style. Her voice is just as great live, and she is a consumate professional in her performance. And Lyle is just fantastic.

Things have been very chaotic in my life lately, and I’ve been too caught up in to relax. Maybe this reminder will help.

these guys are no longer together, and we’ve lost one of the Stewart brothers, but having seen them in concert when I was in college, they are amazing. Well worth a listen.

Not to detract from the overall truth of the statement, but the one we’ve lost (and it was a great loss) is Johnny Cunningham: http://www.johnnycunningham.com

Girlfriend in a coma
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQWKmceb184

Billy don’t be a hero

Depression pop

Ok, I am optimistic, really.

Get well Christy, rest, we’ll be ok out here for a few hours but don’t leave us alone to long.

Got a nice drive in yesterday near sunset on Rte. 225 in Massachusetts; leaves are not quite at peak, but it’s a marshy, foresty drive (from Groton into Lexington) that I can recommend to any other MA’ers.

RH, I’ve been meaning to ask forever (I usually miss the pull-up-a-chairs), when you were at Smith any chance you knew Jennifer (”Vern”) Long? You let slip once long ago when you were at Smith, and my calculation put you there at the same time. Thought it might be possible, Smith is small and it’s hard to imagine not at least running into Vern regardless of the size of school–she was a legend at my grad school of tens of thousands.

Going to a Pumpkin Maze today with my two-year old peanut. I’ll be buying fresh baking pumpkin to try in pumpkin pie–my first time, I’ve always used “Libby” before.

LindyH @
10

Music…oh my. There’s so much. Lately, I’ve been listening to Cat Stevens for motivation. For relaxation/meditation..Beethoven Symphony No. 6, particularly the allegreto movement.

If you like Beethoven 6 you should check out Dvorak 8 if you haven’t already…

Good morning you’se and Go Blue! Great call on the Gladiator soundtrack, it is one of my favorites.

In fact when I am looking to chill out, I throw in a couple of soundtracks. My favorite is Lord of the Rings-stirring and haunting at the same time. Last of the Mohicans is a great one, as is Titanic. The Right Stuff gets me fired up.

But one of the best, & I would recommend it to anybody who likes Hans Zimmer, is Spirit. It is absolutley amazing, both the song by Bryan Adams and the Zimmer stuff.

And finally, the movie soundtrack to Phantom of the Opera. Liked the move better.

I recognize some old favorites among the music listed (Silk Road, John Barleycorn). Here are some suggestions for comfort music, lower-the-bloodpressure songs:
Traffic, “Low Spark of High Heeled Boys”
Laura Nyro, “I Am the Blues” (on Smile)
Dire Straits, “Brothers in Arms”
Mark Knopfler & Emmylou Harris, All the Roadrunning (esp “I Dug up a Diamond”)
Ten Thousand Maniacs, Unplugged
Bruce Springsteen, “I’m on Fire”
Van Morrison, “Into the Mystic”

SLJ @ 38

Any Jean Michelle Jarre fans out there? I particularly like Zoolook as a chill-out soundtrack.

Concerts in China was the first CD my brother ever owned!

Oh man – when Christy talks about Debussy or Yo Yo Ma, or when Wilson talks about his own playlist – I feel like such an adolescent. I hate oldies stations; still listen to the progressive rock one – always lookin’ for something new.

But as to older stuff – Lucinda Williams, a lot of Cranberries lately, Clapton’s E.C. was here (Clapton coverin’ the blues is wht he was born to do). Steve Earle, Van Morrison, Jennie DeVoe….

And in tribute to a certain 60 ft therapod – some TRex…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMzPVRCNUSc

Professor Foland @ 55

LindyH @
10

Music…oh my. There’s so much. Lately, I’ve been listening to Cat Stevens for motivation. For relaxation/meditation..Beethoven Symphony No. 6, particularly the allegreto movement.

If you like Beethoven 6 you should check out Dvorak 8 if you haven’t already…

Professor Foland, I may have heard it, but I don’t think so. Thanks for the recommend. I will surely look it up.

Angel From Montgomery, City Of New Orleans oh and the Be Good Tanyas are all stuff I’ve been listening to of late 25 years later I’m rediscovering my grade school music teacher influence!

hiya Christy!

long time no writey,
but always lotsa readey — heh!

Without a doubt, Eno’s
Music for Airports
esp the track titled “1/1″,
over and over and over…
simply gorgeous, flatline stuff …

Plus any Theravada Pali Buddhist chanting,
particularly in the Shan or Mon languages.
Khmer and Lao are good too ….

oh and, Good Morning all you Fire K9s!

Mad Dogs @48 says”Impeachment

It is practically impossible for the Democrats to impeach Bush since that would require a 2/3 majority of the Senate. Since the Republicans now have 55 Senate seats and only 15 of those are in play for this election, even if they lost all 15 seats, the Republicans would still have 40 seats in the Senate which would give them 6 more than is necessary to defeat impeachment.”

Once investigations are underway, and the wider public becomes aware of just what a bunch of lying, cheating, theiving incompetants Bushco are, there will be plenty of Repub Senators who will vote for impeachment, if only to try to save their own skins. They have no reason to support Bush, he’s a lame duck. They will claim ignorance, and toss him overboard.

In a perfect, just world. Which this isn’t.

Baseball on the brain lately, popping up in Late Night and this thread, mourning Buck O’Neil’s passing.

Earlier this week while taking the eight-year-old to school, the local pop station that plays 70’s-80’s-90’s material put on Fogerty’s “Centerfield” — and for some reason, I sang along. It perked me up and got me in gear that morning, was highly motivational.

The eight-year-old got into it, too, but he marveled at the fact I knew all the words, was actually impressed. Heh. I felt like SuperMom; amazing, since I’ve never been much of a baseball fan.

Dual soundtracks for me.

Workingman’s Dead and American Beauty. If you’ve never heard the Grateful Dead, start here. You’ll be glad you did.

Christy, I’ve submitted the paperwork to the Vatican for your sainthood. In-laws for 3 weeks? Both my wife and I would be in a mental institution if we had to do it for 3 weeks!

Renee in Ohio @ 12

Christy, one of the things that really struck us was how oppressed some of these people feel. And so convinced that the “secularists” have taken control of America. This guy said that Evangelical Christians often don’t *want* to get into politics, but they feel reluctantly pulled in by what’s going on in society. But it’s my experience of a lot of left-leaning religious people (myself included) that we’d rather not *have* to “get political” about our faith, except that we weren’t seeing tolerant/inclusive faith represented.

Lakoff talked about that “oppression” meme in his workshop at YKos, actually. It’s part of the subject of his latest book, which I haven’t gotten to read, but it might be helpful for your situation to give it a look.

Off to canvass!

You know, I forgot to list another favorite track — Oleta Adams “Get Here” — awesome stuff. (YouTube)

Hmmm-Josh is talking techtonic again…

take a break from politics:

skippy (on his lobsterfest/fall foliage tour ‘06) reviews the sad state of broadway plays, and how it reflects the shallow consumerism of america these days.

plus a quick tour of the museum of modern art in nyc.

.

.

ummmmmmmm…Janis Joplin — to git yer yaya’s out.
———-
Stone Coyotes.
http://www.stonecoyotes.com/
On iTunes. Check ‘em out. Playing venues south of Mason/Dixon coming up. Roots.
——–
Soundtrack to ‘Stormy Weather’ (music by Harold Arlen, same guy who did ‘Wizard of Oz’.)

Great stuff.

medaka at 63 — hey! I was wondering how you were doing — long time, no see. :)

John Denver is good chill out music as well! Brings back memories of long trips in an RV as a kid.

David Derbes @ 58

I recognize some old favorites among the music listed (Silk Road, John Barleycorn). Here are some suggestions for comfort music, lower-the-bloodpressure songs:
Traffic, “Low Spark of High Heeled Boys”
Laura Nyro, “I Am the Blues” (on Smile)
Dire Straits, “Brothers in Arms”
Mark Knopfler & Emmylou Harris, All the Roadrunning (esp “I Dug up a Diamond”)
Ten Thousand Maniacs, Unplugged
Bruce Springsteen, “I’m on Fire”
Van Morrison, “Into the Mystic”

Good list. Very good.

David Derbes @ 58

I recognize some old favorites among the music listed (Silk Road, John Barleycorn). Here are some suggestions for comfort music, lower-the-bloodpressure songs:
Traffic, “Low Spark of High Heeled Boys”
Laura Nyro, “I Am the Blues” (on Smile)
Dire Straits, “Brothers in Arms”
Mark Knopfler & Emmylou Harris, All the Roadrunning (esp “I Dug up a Diamond”)
Ten Thousand Maniacs, Unplugged
Bruce Springsteen, “I’m on Fire”
Van Morrison, “Into the Mystic”

OOOH! OOOH! Sweet Thing! Van The Man!

Twisted Martini @
74

John Denver is good chill out music as well! Brings back memories of long trips in an RV as a kid.

You’ll like this one then.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v…..&eurl=

Christy.

Hope you don’t mind too much, but…

I’m embarrassed and mightily relieved to say I DO get some long-overdue downtime these days,
THANKS TO YOU and the wonderful FDL community.

Before I discovered FDL, I was going nuts trying to track down everything myself and alert everyone who would listen to my take on the horrors being perpetrated by this administration.

Now *blush* I lean heavily on your excellent research and analysis, and I do sleep better, though still not all that well.

I think you saved my sanity, what’s left of it.

Thank you ALL!

Oh, just to show what a cracked mold I come from, my favorite musical soother & perker-upper:

1.Telemann’s Darmstadt Overtures (especially the ones where the oboes really let ‘er rip!)

AND, when I’m feeling particularly gloomy and indulging in a full-out pity-party,

2.”Gloom, dispair, and agony unbeat…” from “HeeHaw”

Go figure. *g

Thanks Balrog! I actually met Peter Yarrow at Snowbird in Utah back in the early 80’s.

Here’s one for you Redd. Go ‘Neers!

ReneND
Write me offline at prairiesunshine at msn dot com

No necessarily relaxing, but good when you feel crazy and need to let off steam: Gogol Bordello. Google them and start with “Start Wearing Purple”. “In the Old Days It Was Not a Crime” is great also.

John Denver lives on in my home & my heart and I go there lots… thanks TM.

Here’s a bit of the lyrics from Leonard Cohen’s Democracy:

It’s coming from the sorrow in the street,
the holy places where the races meet;
from the homicidal bitchin’
that goes down in every kitchen
to determine who will serve and who will eat.
From the wells of disappointment
where the women kneel to pray
for the grace of God in the desert here
and the desert far away:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.

Sail on, sail on
O mighty Ship of State!
To the Shores of Need
Past the Reefs of Greed
Through the Squalls of Hate
Sail on, sail on, sail on, sail on.

It’s coming to America first,
the cradle of the best and of the worst.
It’s here they got the range
and the machinery for change
and it’s here they got the spiritual thirst.
It’s here the family’s broken
and it’s here the lonely say
that the heart has got to open
in a fundamental way:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.

It’s coming from the women and the men.
O baby, we’ll be making love again.
We’ll be going down so deep
the river’s going to weep,
and the mountain’s going to shout Amen!
It’s coming like the tidal flood
beneath the lunar sway,
imperial, mysterious,
in amorous array:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.

Sail on, sail on …

I’m sentimental, if you know what I mean
I love the country but I can’t stand the scene.
And I’m neither left or right
I’m just staying home tonight,
getting lost in that hopeless little screen.
But I’m stubborn as those garbage bags
that Time cannot decay,
I’m junk but I’m still holding up
this little wild bouquet:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.

Twisted Martini @ 67

Christy, I’ve submitted the paperwork to the Vatican for your sainthood. In-laws for 3 weeks? Both my wife and I would be in a mental institution if we had to do it for 3 weeks!

Actually I was going to submit papers nominating myself for sainthood. Kinda like Cheney when he vetted himself to be V.P., and was destined, as we all know, to become the power behind the throne. But I found out you have to be dead for a considerable length of time first. Pity. I would make a great saint.

Blank Kludge @
20

Greetings & Salutations!
——-
Such a pleasure to once again be able to ‘pull up a chair’….
Highway 61 Revisited
Electric LadyLand (esp. Voodoo Chile–>>Slight Return)
Soundtrack to ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’

…and a as a resident DeadHead, just about anything listed here:
http://arts.ucsc.edu/Gdead/AGDL

———–
Seems like the last few weeks have been similar to mine, Ms. Hardin Smith. Keep smilin, though.

Kludge, cool site. Is it your work?

On John Denver, his song Calypso was a big favorite of mine. I believe it led to my current obsession with diving and filming the ocean.

Good Morning All,

oooh, someone has a new CD – Madeleine Peyroux

if you’re so inclined hit the link and click on “media” to listen (nothing over @ youtube :{) there’s a duet w/ kd lang of Joni Mitchell’s ‘river’

goodness, I love this child’s work

http://www.madeleinepeyroux.co…../main.html

and hey lina ! wynonna could sing the phone book and I’d pay to listen – jeebus what a gift – somewhere within the toobz, there’s a vid of her singing w/Allison Kraus – heaven

and Balrog, although not a Dead afficianado – found myself listening to Goin’ Down the Road Feelin’ Bad and Miracle – a lot lately *g*

Adie @ 77

2.”Gloom, dispair, and agony unbeat…” from “HeeHaw”

Go figure. *g

You know, I wouldn’t have thought of that…but when you typed the name, my mind went through the rest of the lyrics and I realized I must have internalized that when I was a child. LOL

Oh, Lookee! John at AmericaBlog is hearing rumours, similar to the ones he heard about Foley, about another Republican house member. He was right about Foley….

http://americablog.blogspot.co…..nared.html

Morning Chrisy, everyone. Got bulbs to plant today. Ranunculus, freesia and watsonia. Gonna be a colorful spring in my yard.

mOropeza, come on back, the water’s fine. That was another Life Lesson, huh? Don’t drink and post. *g* I can think of a few comments I’d like to take back, too. ‘Pology ‘cepted, as my boy used to say.

So, Christy, the Peanut spirited ‘Sprited Away’ away. Clever girl. The Sprout loved that movie, too. Me, when I get in a rut and need to destress, I listen to Leonard Cohen (yes, OK, love me some Leonard, too), esp. I’m Your Man .

Also really love Jane Siberry, a Canadian singer/songwriter. She does a song with kd liang, “Calling All Angels” that makes me cry every time. It’s on When I Was a Boy.

For meditative moods, I like Canyon Suite by Paul Winter. It was written on and partially recorded while rafting on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. There are ambient sounds, like trickling water and canyon wrens (quelle miracle! My favorite bird of all time has taken up residence in our chicken yard!). There’s also a PBS special from around 1987 about the making of it that I can’t find but would love to.

When I want to get happy, nothin’ does that to me like some Leo Kottke music. Or Paul Simon. Or pretty much any bluegrass.

Some moon last night, eh? The temp went all the way down to 60 last night, first good sleepin’ night since spring. I can’t take this heat much longer, y’all.

Heard the tune Mr. Bo Jangles, had me in tears. Then John Lennon and Christ You Know It Ain’t Easy. Listened to an oldies channel, since my hearing has declined I appreciate the older stuff, it takes me back to my youth and it’s nice knowing the words.

Medaka!

angie @ 80

I’m sentimental, if you know what I mean
I love the country but I can’t stand the scene.
And I’m neither left or right
I’m just staying home tonight,
getting lost in that hopeless little screen.
But I’m stubborn as those garbage bags
that Time cannot decay,
I’m junk but I’m still holding up
this little wild bouquet:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.

Angie, I can’t thank you enough.

Twisted Martini — oh, I absolutely concur on the soundtrack to Last of the Mohicans (lovely movie, by the way, one of my faves). I bought up a bunch of Clannad after that movie because of the track “I Will Find You” from that movie.

Oklahoma kiddo at #25 – Leonard Cohen, a great one indeed. Also, Paul Simon, IMHO. And of course, the lady herself, Joni Mitchell. The solaces of remote youth.

Balrog @ 84

Blank Kludge @
20

Greetings & Salutations!
——-
Such a pleasure to once again be able to ‘pull up a chair’….
Highway 61 Revisited
Electric LadyLand (esp. Voodoo Chile–>>Slight Return)
Soundtrack to ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’

…and a as a resident DeadHead, just about anything listed here:
http://arts.ucsc.edu/Gdead/AGDL

———–
Seems like the last few weeks have been similar to mine, Ms. Hardin Smith. Keep smilin, though.

Kludge, cool site. Is it your work?

—–
Sadly, no. Found while looking for something (which I can’t recall just now.)
Will add old U2 to list. ‘I Will Follow’, ‘Still haven’t found what I been lookin’ for’, etc.

Hey medaka! What’s new in your corner of the world? What new fabric finds have you?

I love baseball. And baseball movies. Tunes about baseball. Baseball bios. And I especially love to be at night baseball games. There’s something almost surreal about this experience, for me anyway.

Blank Kludge @ 93

Balrog @ 84

Blank Kludge @
20

Greetings & Salutations!
——-
Such a pleasure to once again be able to ‘pull up a chair’….
Highway 61 Revisited
Electric LadyLand (esp. Voodoo Chile–>>Slight Return)
Soundtrack to ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’

…and a as a resident DeadHead, just about anything listed here:
http://arts.ucsc.edu/Gdead/AGDL

———–
Seems like the last few weeks have been similar to mine, Ms. Hardin Smith. Keep smilin, though.

Kludge, cool site. Is it your work?

—–
Sadly, no. Found while looking for something (which I can’t recall just now.)
Will add old U2 to list. ‘I Will Follow’, ‘Still haven’t found what I been lookin’ for’, etc.

Have you heard that the Dead have sold their entire vault of live shows to Rhino Records?

I think it’s going to be great; if any group will get to remastering and distribution of thousands of live shows it will be Rhino.

Glorfindel @ 92

Oklahoma kiddo at #25 – Leonard Cohen, a great one indeed. Also, Paul Simon, IMHO. And of course, the lady herself, Joni Mitchell. The solaces of remote youth.

Hejira, of course. Flawless.

Medaka at 64-

Egregious popped in yesterday for a brief moment. She’s getting ready for her 29th (?) trip…busy woman.

But she wanted to be sure, if you turned up, that you got a special shout-out from her. Just passing it along…

angie @ 81

John Denver lives on in my home & my heart and I go there lots… thanks TM.

Here’s a bit of the lyrics from Leonard Cohen’s Democracy:

It’s coming from the sorrow in the street,
the holy places where the races meet;
from the homicidal bitchin’
that goes down in every kitchen
to determine who will serve and who will eat.
From the wells of disappointment
where the women kneel to pray
for the grace of God in the desert here
and the desert far away:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.

Sail on, sail on
O mighty Ship of State!
To the Shores of Need
Past the Reefs of Greed
Through the Squalls of Hate
Sail on, sail on, sail on, sail on.

It’s coming to America first,
the cradle of the best and of the worst.
It’s here they got the range
and the machinery for change
and it’s here they got the spiritual thirst.
It’s here the family’s broken
and it’s here the lonely say
that the heart has got to open
in a fundamental way:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.

It’s coming from the women and the men.
O baby, we’ll be making love again.
We’ll be going down so deep
the river’s going to weep,
and the mountain’s going to shout Amen!
It’s coming like the tidal flood
beneath the lunar sway,
imperial, mysterious,
in amorous array:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.

Sail on, sail on …

I’m sentimental, if you know what I mean
I love the country but I can’t stand the scene.
And I’m neither left or right
I’m just staying home tonight,
getting lost in that hopeless little screen.
But I’m stubborn as those garbage bags
that Time cannot decay,
I’m junk but I’m still holding up
this little wild bouquet:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A.

If it were possible, my Cohen cd’s would have long since worn out. I almost have this particular piece memorized.

Balrog @
96

Blank Kludge @ 93

Balrog @ 84

Blank Kludge @
20

Greetings & Salutations!
——-
Such a pleasure to once again be able to ‘pull up a chair’….
Highway 61 Revisited
Electric LadyLand (esp. Voodoo Chile–>>Slight Return)
Soundtrack to ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’

…and a as a resident DeadHead, just about anything listed here:
http://arts.ucsc.edu/Gdead/AGDL

———–
Seems like the last few weeks have been similar to mine, Ms. Hardin Smith. Keep smilin, though.

Kludge, cool site. Is it your work?

—–
Sadly, no. Found while looking for something (which I can’t recall just now.)
Will add old U2 to list. ‘I Will Follow’, ‘Still haven’t found what I been lookin’ for’, etc.

Have you heard that the Dead have sold their entire vault of live shows to Rhino Records?

I think it’s going to be great; if any group will get to remastering and distribution of thousands of live shows it will be Rhino.

Good article. http://www.marinij.com/marin/ci_4136208

Balrog @ 97

Blank Kludge @ 93

Balrog @ 84

Blank Kludge @
20

Greetings & Salutations!
——-
Such a pleasure to once again be able to ‘pull up a chair’….
Highway 61 Revisited
Electric LadyLand (esp. Voodoo Chile–>>Slight Return)
Soundtrack to ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’

…and a as a resident DeadHead, just about anything listed here:
http://arts.ucsc.edu/Gdead/AGDL

———–
Seems like the last few weeks have been similar to mine, Ms. Hardin Smith. Keep smilin, though.

Kludge, cool site. Is it your work?

—–
Sadly, no. Found while looking for something (which I can’t recall just now.)
Will add old U2 to list. ‘I Will Follow’, ‘Still haven’t found what I been lookin’ for’, etc.

Have you heard that the Dead have sold their entire vault of live shows to Rhino Records?

I think it’s going to be great; if any group will get to remastering and distribution of thousands of live shows it will be Rhino.

Nope. Hadn’t heard that. Been w/o CPU, so out of loop in many ways. Good move. Had heard all the vault material was also on iTMS. True?

Christy – to help in your recovery, you may want to visit an (reputable) acupuncturist if you have not done so yet. Your poor little qi is in need of some serious re-balancing. No one else in this world can take care of you except yourself. If healing means no posts for awhile, so be it. Please help yourself get well. And thank you for your courage, strength, and loyalty.

Namaste.

Nope. Hadn’t heard that. Been w/o CPU, so out of loop in many ways. Good move. Had heard all the vault material was also on iTMS. True?

Not sure. Probably all the studio stuff, but not the Live Vault.

LindyH– you are most welcome ;)

For all John Denver fans, here is one of my most favorite relaxing and rejoicing songs– little known because he died so soon after he played it… for ET and my brother in Alaska and all here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnwD3c0tMPM

Hey gang — please don’t go beyond three nested comments — it busts out the margins, and then we have to backtrack through the comments to fix it individually by hand. Thanks.

“Dreams” by The Cranberries

I first heard it late on night, on the freeway, coming back from a magic week camping in the San Juan Islands. There was an accident somewhere ahead, so traffic was lined up bumper-to-bumper for miles. The kids in the open jeep in the next lane played it over and over. The next day I hummed it for my neighbor and found out what it was.

I zone out by listening to music or playing the piano. I especially enjoy playing Duke Ellington pieces, both for their mind-altering capability and their general ease of play (most songs are only two sheets).

My most recent listening kicks include Los Lobos, Michel Petrucciani, Steel Pulse, and Sister Carol. I take a train to work everyday and always have my Ipod. So Christy… I get a good 30-40 minutes of train and music vibes each morning and evening.

FYI everyone, there were a bunch of comments stuck in moderation all at once that I missed over the last fifteen minutes or so — please refresh your screen to catch them up. Sorry gang — trying to do too many things at once here today, I’m afraid…

Music for de-stressing: John Fahey and Doc Watson. Anything by either of them. They will always give you a breather. I keep them near my CD player, and often in the car as well.

Glorfindel @ 92

Indeed, many a Joni Mitchell that is perfect for a chill-out weekend morning when it’s time to catch up with yourself.

Oh, during my lack of CPU hiatus read Johm Markoff’s history of SF/BayArea ’60’s and the confluence w/Silicon Valley ‘inspiration’. “What the dormouse said.” — highly recommended. Weaves threads of politics, drugs, communal spirit, est, and tech into a very interesting documentation of the phrase ‘Everything is deeply intertwingled.”

Like the unlikely birthing of Dr. Dobbs Journal. And other mysteries…Xerox Parc, Apple, TCP/IP, etc.

dannyM at 112 — LUV Duke Ellington. I could fill an iPod with Duke and Miles Davis and Chick Corea and a few other choice picks and spend eternity with a smile on my face. :) Thanks for the Ellington reminder…

good morning, all… anyone listened to the new Bruce Springsteen album of folk tunes? (can’t think of the name of it)… Very Nice!

Right now, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Jimmy Buffett are good “kick-back” CDs, but I’m going to be getting out some John McCutcheon baseball music to remember Buck O’Neill. All of Kansas City has got to be in full-out mourning.

Maybe some good New Orleans-funeral music is needed today, too, with that combination of sorrow and joy all mixed together . . .

Ah, Joni Mitchell…which makes me think of another soundtrack that we love at my house.

Very pleasant mix of music from Practical Magic, including Joni Mitchell’s “A Case of You” and Nick Drake’s “Black Dog”.

Ah, and for mellowing out there really isn’t much better than Nick Drake; love that “Pink Moon“, but I can’t think of anything I don’t like of Drake’s. A tragic loss but wonderful treasure.

Christy – if you like “Officium”, can I recommend “Mnemnosyne”, also by Garbarek, and “The Passion of St Thomas More” by Garrett Fisher. You’ll love them.

first time poster, long time reader. Get well soon.

Oh Balrog– if you love Calypso, you might just want to watch this video that ends with your fave in a big way with his incomparable voice and his 12 string gitbox– the man played and yodeled like nobody else!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdTWKobIk2A

What? Nobody for Joni’s live ‘Miles of Aisles’?
——–
and Cheech n Chong’s little colloquy on ‘Twisted’? (forget the album’s title…)

OldCoastie @
118

good morning, all… anyone listened to the new Bruce Springsteen album of folk tunes? (can’t think of the name of it)… Very Nice!

Seeger Sessions, it’s really good. I love the Legend of John Henry especially. And thanks Angie for the John Denver link, it was excellent.

Been doing a little browsing. Over at HuffPo, Lawrence O’Donnell asks “Who is Scott Palmer?” Answer, Hastert’s Chief of Staff and the guy he lives with.

Why do I have the feeling that O’Donnell isn’t just talking about living arrangements, and won’t the fundies just go ballistic if that turns out to be the case?

‘Until We Say Goodbye’
Joe Satriani
Cd: Crystal Planet

Okay, got to run, have to meet folks for canvassing today.

Please do check to see if there is canvassing, phonebanking or other efforts in your area today and tomorrow. If you aren’t comfortable doing door-to-door, you can always volunteer to do something else — like take some donuts and cider to the folks who are working a phonebank, or help distribute signs or put together literature packages for literature drops.

You have the power to take back our country!

Susan in Iowa @ 125

Been doing a little browsing. Over at HuffPo, Lawrence O’Donnell asks “Who is Scott Palmer?” Answer, Hastert’s Chief of Staff and the guy he lives with.

Why do I have the feeling that O’Donnell isn’t just talking about living arrangements, and won’t the fundies just go ballistic if that turns out to be the case?

True enough. But I think the name Susan Ralston will have a bunch more ink.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/200…..NlYwM3MTY-

oh my! Duke Cunningham has sent a letter to the San Diego Union (the paper that broke the scandal) to complain about how they ruined his life and all… talk about not taking responsibility! I’ll be glad when this day in America passes…

via Muckraker

For all you West Virginia fans out there, I give you this…

–West Virginia fans taunt Maryland fans. “Hey Maryland! You suck! You’ve got a turtle–we’ve got a guy with a gun!”

OldCoastie @
129

oh my! Duke Cunningham has sent a letter to the San Diego Union (the paper that broke the scandal) to complain about how they ruined his life and all… talk about not taking responsibility! I’ll be glad when this day in America passes…

via Muckraker

Signed: CA prisoner # 463925
postmarked from San Quentin, perhaps?

Blank Kludge @ 118

What? Nobody for Joni’s live ‘Miles of Aisles’?
——–
and Cheech n Chong’s little colloquy on ‘Twisted’? (forget the album’s title…)

Court & Spark. “Because there was no driver on the top”.

Blank Kludge @
29

Joh Casper–
Heard Buck O’Neil on WFAN Mike/Dog show tell some hilarious stories when the players and Jazz artists shared (segregated) hotels. Duke Ellington and other folks watched game during day, then teams went to clubs for latenight action. All went back to hotel to hang out, have fun, tell stories, etc.

Blank, yes.

Buck had great memories of Jackie Robinson before he made it to the Dodgers. Jackie had graduated from UCLA. He was a rookie with the Monarchs, but he taught them that they had leverage when their team bus pulled up at a gas station that wouldn’t let them use the restroom. After Jackie, they only filled up at stations that would let them use the restroom.

Susan in Iowa @ 120

Been doing a little browsing. Over at HuffPo, Lawrence O’Donnell asks “Who is Scott Palmer?” Answer, Hastert’s Chief of Staff and the guy he lives with.

Why do I have the feeling that O’Donnell isn’t just talking about living arrangements, and won’t the fundies just go ballistic if that turns out to be the case?

Very strange for boss and employee to live together…

Somewhat OT…

In the spirit of discussing music..what moves us and inspires us, what lightens our load and what allows us to lean when we need it, I’ve had an idea stewing around in my head for a couple of days, and I wish to share it with the FDL community.

We are blessed to have so many people in the FDL community that are musically talented and connected in many ways (Donita, Tommy Yum, SteveAudio, and countless others that I sure I am forgetting). Combined with the observation that other than the netroots activity, there doesn’t seem to be a singular voice out there unifying and motivating the masses to MOVE, MARCH or do whatever is necessary to get the general population talking about what is happening in our nation (especially young people).

I know we have the great song “Have You Had Enough” by the fabulous Rickie Lee Jones, but I fear, this message is not getting enough exposure.

This is where my idea comes in. Given the existing FDL connections, with their uncanny creativity, do you all think an all-star cover of “Have You Had Enough” (a’la “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”) would bring the attention that is so sorely needed to our current plight? I picture Green Day, Eminem, Neil Young, Rickie Lee Jones, The Squirrel Nut Zippers, R.E.M., Natalie Merchant, L7, etc. uniting their voices (and their high-caliber celebrity) to bring an even larger focus and louder voice.

I wish I had the connections and the influence to organize something like this, and ultimately, I’m not sure if there is enough time to implement this before the elections. Having said that, I just wanted to get it out of my head and on paper.

Finger’s crossed.

ember @ 128

Susan in Iowa @ 120

Been doing a little browsing. Over at HuffPo, Lawrence O’Donnell asks “Who is Scott Palmer?” Answer, Hastert’s Chief of Staff and the guy he lives with.

Why do I have the feeling that O’Donnell isn’t just talking about living arrangements, and won’t the fundies just go ballistic if that turns out to be the case?

Very strange for boss and employee to live together…

Could this be what John at AmericaBlog is taking about?

http://americablog.blogspot.co…..nared.html

(repost)

Kentucky Woman :

great thought!

give peace a chance.

angie @ 103

LindyH– you are most welcome ;)

For all John Denver fans, here is one of my most favorite relaxing and rejoicing songs– little known because he died so soon after he played it… for ET and my brother in Alaska and all here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnwD3c0tMPM

And that one made me cry. Catharsis.

ember @ 134

Susan in Iowa @ 120

Been doing a little browsing. Over at HuffPo, Lawrence O’Donnell asks “Who is Scott Palmer?” Answer, Hastert’s Chief of Staff and the guy he lives with.

Why do I have the feeling that O’Donnell isn’t just talking about living arrangements, and won’t the fundies just go ballistic if that turns out to be the case?

Very strange for boss and employee to live together…

Actually, it’s very common among Congressional members and staffers. With all the travel back and forth to the district, it’s a way to save money that makes a lot of sense. Otherwise you’re trying to pay for two residences – at least one of which is in a relatively high real estate market (both for buying and renting).

Glen Gould playing Bach’s Goldberg Variations

Christy Hardin Smith @ 105

Hey gang — please don’t go beyond three nested comments — it busts out the margins, and then we have to backtrack through the comments to fix it individually by hand. Thanks.

I told Blank Kludge 3 years ago to knock it off. I reported him to leadership and they did nothing. It was his responsibility. I would have handled things differently. I won’t resign over this.

The Sprout reminded me that we also love to listen to Riders in the Sky together. Nothin’ like a little cowboy music with wit and humor to set a day up.

One of my favorite of their bits, which I guess they do on their radio show but I don’t get it here, is Palindrome.

‘Member Paladin, that old cowboy show in the 50’s? Well, their guy, Palidrome, can only speak on palindromes. Funny skits, if you loke word play you can only marvel. My favorite: He goes into a bar to get some food. The bartender says”Welp, I got salami or lasagne. Which’ll it be? ” And Palindrome says” Go hang a salami, I’m a lasagna hog!” HARHARHAR.

They even got the guy who sang the original theme song for the TV show to sing their version on the radio.

Balrog @ 135

I told Blank Kludge 3 years ago to knock it off. I reported him to leadership and they did nothing. It was his responsibility. I would have handled things differently. I won’t resign over this.

LOL!

Thanks Angie!

My mouth just waters thinking of those “just living day to day folks” snapping up the special release and voting the video onto TRL’s top 5 requests. It’s a dream I know, but darnit, there are still too many sheeple out there that I want to reach…SOMEHOW.

Best Duke Ellington recording ever IMHO is the Library of Congress edition of his live performance at the Crystal Ballroom in Fargo. The Ballroom’s only alive now in memories, but its facade still stands at the swimming pool corner of Island Park.

Best concert ever, the summer we interned in D.C. and crashed the VIP section with a bunch of kids from the city for the Duke Ellington concert on the banks of the Potomac behind the Lincoln Memorial. Waded in the reflecting pool after.

Take the A Train, the penultimate….

Back to work for me. Talk amongst yourselves so I’ll have something to learn when I sit down for a break. I find hope here and renewal and focus.

Dear Christy,

RECIPE FOR THE SOUP THAT CURES EVERYTHING:

Ingredients
1. Pot of water
2. Uncooked chicken on the bone
3. Large bunch fresh turnip or mustard greens
4. chopped fresh vegetables
5. salt and pepper/seasonings to taste

Preparation
1. Put chicken in pot of boiling water and cook

2. When meat is done enough to be removed from bones with fork, do so.

3. Crack bones and return to pot. Lower heat to medium and cover. Cook bones for 20 minutes.

4. Remove funky stuff from chicken meat. Wash hands throughout preparation.

5. After 20 minutes, remove bones from pot with slotted spoon. Give bones to cat.

6. Put chicken meat and favorite chopped vegetables/seasonings in pot. Cook 15 more minutes.

5. Put clean fresh mustard or turnip greens in pot. Cook additional 5/10 minutes.

Directions

1. Drink one cup of soup every four hours like medicine.

I’m so hopeful the repubs will self destruct in November, I haven’t been this hopeful in years. The news is more incredible everyday, so I’m thankful for a little break this a.m…

Here’s a great album of Zimbabwean marimba music from a local L.A. group, Masanga. This album’s great to listen to when you need a musical mood elevator (it’s also really good for road trips) Listen to the cut “Sokiana” first. The online mp3’s don’t do justice to the rich, full sound that comes out of your CD player at home:
http://www.masanga.com/cd.php

We’ve also been listening to Las Rubias Del Norte a lot :

http://lasrubiasdelnorte.com/listen_buy.php

all right – gotta get moving here – it’s a beautiful Saturday and I should do more than amuse myself on the tubes…

I bought a bicycle this week. Originally, I started looking at bikes with a noble mindset – a little transportation to the grocery store that didn’t use gas and a little extra exercise, but then I found this wicked cool bike, designed to not hurt the old lady knees and back (the pedals are moved forward a bit) and oh my! what fun to ride! It put a big ol’ silly smile on my face. So, I’m not so noble now – more like a kid with a shiny new toy.

The bike shop is opening in an hour and they should have installed the basket, the fenders and the bell by now… enjoy your day!

LindyH @
90

Adie @ 77

2.”Gloom, dispair, and agony unbeat…” from “HeeHaw”

Go figure. *g

You know, I wouldn’t have thought of that…but when you typed the name, my mind went through the rest of the lyrics and I realized I must have internalized that when I was a child. LOL

Somehow it just fits the occasion quite often, and it sure beats putting a fist thru the wall. I can still picture those guys, and still wonder what was really in that jug.
That was a good program. Always brought a smile around here ;->

OT – Christy do you think the resignation of Susan Ralston will any effect on the CIA Leak case ?

If she was backing up Rove’s testimony and now she is less than creditable for accepting illegal gifts for political favors.

Could make Fitz take a second look at her testimony ?

Frank33 @
28

There is some sad news, the great baseball player Buck O’Neil,
died. He was almost 95, and very active until last August.
He was a great player and managed the Kansas City Monarchs.
Hired by the Chicago Cubs in 1962, he was the first
African-American coach in the major leagues.

Ernie Banks, who hit 500 home runs for the Cubs,
was known for the quote, “It’s a beautiful day. Let’s
play two.” Banks said, “I learned that from Buck O’Neil.”
Perhaps the worst injustice he had to endure was
being denied entrance into the Baseball Hall of Fame
this year. Some quotes from Buck, “Hatred, it doesn’t
make any sense.”, “Moving is the opposite of dying.”,
and “I hugged Hillary.”

Thanks so much, never knew “let’s play two,” came from Buck.

I could not believe how gracious Buck was over the Hall snub, very hard to take.

Hey gang!
Getting up late here in the PNW (staring at data late into the night last night)
Trees are turning, which I love, though I always dread the end of the glorious heat and light.
All these excellent music suggestions! Oh I love Joni – ‘Blue’ will always take me back to a year spent playing hookie from college, living in a rambling craftsman house under the redwoods in the Oakland hills.
Also, just opened up again after a bit of time Miles Davis ‘Kind of Blue’ – sheer brilliance.
When I want rhythm for workin’, I put on AfroCelt Sound System – irresistable.
Has anyone heard David Byrne’s soundtrack for Twyla Tharp’s ‘Catherine Wheel’? The music is mindblowing, and some of the tracks appear on early/mid Talking Heads albums. There is a DVD available of the dance performance which is not to be missed. It apparently only played for a week as it was so physically taxing for the dancers.
I find music from the mid-80’s – my college days – evocative, Talking Heads, REM, the Cure.
Lately my 10 yr-old has been getting into music – he has the family’s first iPod. We’re sharing a love of Green Day and the Red Hot Chili Peppers

I love Spirited Away. I love all of Miyazaki’s great body of work. It’s not only the animation, the music he chooses is just the most beautiful and always appropriate sound track. Amazingly, later in his career, he was sent a new release by Daft Punk and he did the animation around the music rather than the more traditional vice versa. It’s called “Interstella 5555″ and I recommend it to all, though I really recommend that enjoying all of Miyazaiki’s works is the only way too go. So many beautiful animations and music. My favorite is “Kaze no Tani no Naushika”. Thanks for letting me genuflect ;)

blogslut @ 147

Dear Christy,

RECIPE FOR THE SOUP THAT CURES EVERYTHING:

snip

Directions

1. Drink one cup of soup every four hours like medicine.

Ooohhh! Sounds good. Like sipping a vitamin pill, except scrumptious – makes me feel good just thinking about it.

Highly recommended remedy from our household too, Christy. Especially if you can find someone else to do the kitchen-work.
Mr. Redd into slow-cookin’?

Hope you feel better soon.

The music I use to jerk my brain out of whichever ugly place it’s digging into is The Telluride Sessions, by Strength in Numbers. Mark O’Connor, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Bela Fleck, and Edgar Meyer, with the traditional bluegrass instrumentation and not a lick of bluegrass in it anywhere.

It’s the only music in the house that I refuses to let me read. I usually follow it with some of Dave Grisman Quintet’s Dawg Music.

Y’all do awesome and inspiring work. Thanks from Nashville.

The WaPo’s story this morning is fascinating, if not a bit convoluted:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/…..01888.html

Turns out this Foley affair is quite the soap opera. The punchline to the story is that Trahndal (sp) and Foley were possibly having an affair.

I think it was just plain old jealously that got this ball rolling 3-4 years ago, and that everybody in the House knew (at least the GOP leadership) what was going on.

TANK at 151 — I have my ear to the ground on that — I think her resignation has been expected for quite a while, but the timing with the Abramoff investigation going forward, Ney’s plea deal, and the Libby trial coming up raises my eyebrows and then some. If I get some answers to my questions, I’ll certainly be sharing it with everyone here. Definitely something to dig into, though…

Surfmom @
148

I’m so hopeful the repubs will self destruct in November, I haven’t been this hopeful in years. The news is more incredible everyday, so I’m thankful for a little break this a.m…

Here’s a great album of Zimbabwean marimba music from a local L.A. group, Masanga. This album’s great to listen to when you need a musical mood elevator (it’s also really good for road trips) Listen to the cut “Sokiana” first. The online mp3’s don’t do justice to the rich, full sound that comes out of your CD player at home:
http://www.masanga.com/cd.php

We’ve also been listening to Las Rubias Del Norte a lot :

http://lasrubiasdelnorte.com/listen_buy.php

Yeah they were hot. See here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Del_Rubio_triplets

I also have plans to do that Trans-Siberean trip someday. Nothing like a long train ride.

New thread, gang.

Years a ago, I was a church organist. There has been nothing in my life quite so intense and otherworldly as playing a pipe organ in an empty church. Now I play the harpsichord to center myself. Most often it is something from the Fitzwilliam Virginal Book – 900 pages of 16th and 17th keyboard century music. (FITZ!)
“The Bells” by Byrd is my current favorite.

When I am very tired and thinking of my father, I listen to Gabriel’s Oboe, by Ennio Morricone – it’s very short, but I couldn’t take much more anyway.

The most beautiful music is the third movement of Charles Ives 4th symphony, which is, otherwise, an enormous cacaphony. The movement uses two hymn themes and ends with a very, very slow playing of a fragment from “Joy to the World” – Handel’s Christmas carol – just 8 measures.

Christy Hardin Smith @
110

Hey gang — please don’t go beyond three nested comments — it busts out the margins, and then we have to backtrack through the comments to fix it individually by hand. Thanks.

Yikes! I had no idea. All this time I thought “busted margins” described the volume of comments (not the degree of nesting).

Apologies to you Christy and all the other mods who’ve had to fix margins after I puppy piled onto the nested comments.

If I seem oblivious to other norms here, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I’m wondering what else I’ve blundered about in……

Its fall. Time for Cowboy Junkies. There’s some CD quality live shows available here:
http://www.4thellamas.com/

OH…Rhino get those out in 3 months…and that could be my 25th wedding anniversary present for my hub…You can’t imagine how many cassettes of live dead shows we have….can’t let any go cause they are all different!!!!

Christy, I choose Clapton Unplugged, The Band(The Last Waltz has been playing lately on the premium cable channels) or maybe John Hiatt.

I do hope you feel better soon. Three year olds are just a bundle of walking germs! AND TIRED MOMS ARE PETRY DISHES!

Late to the thread and it was on one of my favorte topics…

Soundtrack from Billy The Kid – Bob Dylan

For just the right balance of calm and protest -Neville Brothers- Brothers Keeper

Relaxing/ Full moom bathing (electronica meditative) Brian Eno – Music For Airports

My current all round favorite cd – Bob Dylan – Modern Times

I don’t know what to do with my old cassette tapes, especially my bootleg Dead shows. I must have seventy five shows and a couple of hundred other artists.I bought PeakLE4 software with my mac G4 a couple of years ago thinking it would be my answer. hehe

I’m coming into this conversation late, and haven’t yet read all the posts, but I must thank you, Christy, for that “Spirited Away” excerpt. It’s my favorite too. For a long time, I’ve wanted just one cel from the movie–that long shot of the friends sitting together in the train that comes just after the station stop. It reminds me of Hopper’s work.

My Life in the Bush of Ghosts. After 25 years it is still BRIAN ENO who does it for me.

My downtime music depends on whether I want to be happy, meditative, or just relaxed. Some faves: R. Carlos Nakai, Eva Cassidy, Secret Garden, Deva Premal, Mozart Violin Concertos, Barbara Cook, Bach chorales. Quite a mishmash, I know.

http://www.amazon.com/Starting…..B00006LHXR

Very positive energy, but relaxing;just try some of the sample tracks at Amazon.

Just enjoying everyone else’s recommendations this morning. Been working way too hard, and this downtime is precious.

. Otherwise, what I get is a weird combination of news and cartoons/kids movies (thank you, Peanut!) — none of which is altogether restorative over the long haul.

Although SpongeBob is wonderful- does the Peanut watch that yet, I wonder? My son is always asking, Wanna come see this with me Mom? And I always hear myself saying Well, I’m busy doing (fill in blank); and sometimes I just whatever task it is, sit down, and give in the wonderful goofy belly laugh world of SpongeBob and Patrick.

And Christy,One Word: NAP. We all want you to take a break. Give yourself permission, and hopefully, when the little one naps, you rest too.

The other day, I was trying to arrange a garage sale / fall cleaning and stumbled over a box of my dead parent’s trinkets. It made me very sad.

I put on a superb recording of Brahm’s “Ein Deutches Requiem” and wept for a least an hour. It was astonishing how theapuetic that was.

Hey techno,
I think it’s just you and me here.

Your comment was sad. I’m sorry. But your sorrow just reflects how much you loved them and what wonderful parents they must have been.

thanks carolyn

Yes my parents had their wonderful moments. My father was a preacher–so there were moments that were VERY difficult as well. One good thing about a religious upbringing is that you get to know all the great music for formal occasions. There is some great funeral music–the Mozart and Verdi Requiems come to mind but it is hard to top Brahms!!

Dear Redd,

After the Senate passed the torture bill, I came home and played the Mozart that always accompanies my deepest sorrow:
the second movement of the Clarinet Quintet in A, K. 581, the Larghetto.

I was utterly despondent about my country. Now, when I look at the liner notes, which say that the piece was composed in 1789, I realize that this piece by Mozart is contemporaneous with the adoption of the Constitution. Studying history, I truly believed in the pragmatic optimism of the Enlightenment. Now I am convinced we are on the way to some form of fascism. There was an interesting quote in Sunday’s NY Times Book Review, in a review written by Tom Reiss, the author of The Orientalist: Solving the Mystery of a Strange and Dangerous Life, of the new book by Fritz Stern, Five Germanys I Have Known:
“In November 2005, Fritz Stern received an award for his life’s work on Germans, Jews, and the roots of National Socialism, presented to him by Joschka Fischer, then German foreign minister. With a frankness that startled some in the audience, Stern, an emeritus professor of European history at Columbia University, peppered his acceptance speech with the similarities he saw between the path taken by Germany in the years leading up to Hitler and the path being taken by the United States today. He talked about a group of 1920s intellectuals known as the ‘conservative revolutionaries,’ who ‘denounced liberalism as the greatest, most invidious threat, and attacked it for its tolerance, rationality, and cosmopolitan culture,’ and how Hitler has used religion to appeal to the German public. In Hitler’s first radio address after becoming chancellor, Stern noted, he declared that the Nazis regarded ‘Christianity as the foundation of our national morality and the family as the basis of national life.’
“Stern was of course not suggesting an equivalence between President Bush and Hitler but rather making a more subtle critique, extending his idea that contemporary American politics exhibited ’something like the strident militancy and political ineptitude of the Kaiser’s pre-1914 imperial Germany.’”

I’m adding this book to my list of things to read, along with Stern’s first book The Politics of Cultural Despair, which was published in 1961. As Reiss put in the closing paragraphs of the review, “…Stern looks for the nihilistic undercurrents in our own educated, commercial societies. Hunger and poverty have little to do with the politics of cultural despair. It thrives especially well at moments of plenty and prosperity, when people have enought social advantages to dwell on their inner alienations and resentments.
“By probing history for answers to how Germany progressed from radical illiberalism to Nazism, Stern has created a cumulative canon of warning signs for the degeneration of any great nation’s politics.”

Pat Metheney – “As Falls Wichita, so Falls Wichita Falls”

Miles Davis – “In a Silent Way”

Late to the thread, but I’ll second BushYouth’s recommendation at 164 of the Cowboy Junkies; great fall and winter music. Thanks for the link.

In another vein entirely, there’s the improvisational guitar work of Steve Kimock, who plays everything from wonderful soul-soothing lyrical ballads(”Green”, “Cole’s Law”), to anthemic mythic journeys (”Avalon”), to time- and mind-bending, jazzy psychedelic funk (”Elmer’s Revenge”). There are hundreds of his shows up on Archive.org’s Live Music Archive. Try a couple; like other improvisational artists, he never seems to play the same song exactly the same way twice.

hey fdl’ers, i’m late to this thread today but i chill out with the 3rd, 4th, and 5th brandenburg concertos by bach then some old yes songs – cools me down nicely……… feel better soon christie

Satie sometimes works for me, as can some of Beethoven’s quieter piano works.

An odd recommendation, but again, one that works for me, is Brian Eno’s Discreet Music – one of the grandaddys of modern electronic music.

[Mod Note; One of the few rules at FDL is that insulting other commenters is not acceptable.]

I’ve been listening to Oscar Peterson most of the day, but now I’ve switched to Sharon Isbin’s “Journey to the Amazon” album. If you like acoustic guitar, I really recommend that.