Monday, March 21, 2016

British bands live in my wallet

Black Sabbath
Iron Maiden
The Cure
Radiohead

Oh! Right, what's all this, then?

2016 has been shaping up to be a very interesting year thus far. I've been working more consistently though it's been on a very shitty schedule. I've also been reuniting with people though the reception has been mixed: frowned upon, labeled regrettable, or perplexing but ultimately rewarding in some form. Truths have also been revealed themselves leaving me in a state of shock. But that has nothing to do with the topic at hand.

In terms of music, 2016 has seen the repeated draining of my wallet. As I've already committed to seeing the above bands (in that order, interestingly), it is safe to say that British bands have indeed taken up residency in my wallet. Or it's a clever scheme designed to collect overdue tax money in retaliation for the Boston Tea Party, despite the fact that I had nothing to do with it nor did my ancestors (as far as I know).

And it's all part of a plan I've had kicking around in my head since I first bought tickets for Iron Maiden late last year. (The Forum, April 15, 2016). My plan is to see big bands/musicians before they stop playing: retirement, disbanding, death, whatever the reason is. This idea that I should see them before they stopped really hit me when I was debating whether I should see Black Sabbath at the Forum (February 11, 2016) or the Hollywood Bowl (September). Because the weeks prior to Black Sabbath had been riddled with the deaths of legendary and unbelievably talented musicians, the decision to fork over my money was made easier. I HAVE NO REGRETS! Black Sabbath at the Forum was an amazing show, as evidenced by the fact that my voice was shot and raspy by the end, I was mildly drenched in sweat, and woke up sore from rocking the fuck out. As the time for the Hollywood Bowl show draws nearer, I'll decide if I want to see them again. After all, it's their farewell tour, they're much older now and not exactly in the greatest health considering their pasts.

Truthfully, the setlist for Iron Maiden so far has been subject to criticism though I choose to remain mostly silent on it because it's going to be my first Iron Maiden concert and I got really good seats. I'm happy they're playing "Powerslave" which happens to be from my favorite album. That being said, I'm not too keen on the fact that the majority of the setlist is from their new album which baffles people when I say that I'm looking forward to The Cure (the Hollywood Bowl, May 23, 2016) more than I am Iron Maiden. Now, if the setlist were to alter in a way that would extend the show, and/or include more of the classics (or at least "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" and/or "The Clansman"), then I would be far more optimistic and possibly withdraw my statement. Or amend it to reflect the amendments.

As I've a reputation as a tough bad boy to keep, I only mention that particular factoid to certain people. Though I realize that by posting it on here, it's kind of a null assertion. I only look forward to The Cure more than Iron Maiden because of the company that'll be in attendance with me. And because I've been told they play long sets (thereby making it worth my time and money). I maintain this enthusiasm despite the fact that the Hollywood Bowl is quickly becoming my default venue (I've been to 3 shows there and the Cure will make 4). The Forum is at 3 shows (2 concerts, 1 comedy show, and Iron Maiden will make 4) so far.

The same sentiment goes for Radiohead (The Shrine, August 4, 2016) though that's something of an odd duck. I say this because I haven't kept up with Radiohead in years; I listen to their music from time to time but not like before when I would spend the entirety of a day listening to their discography. "King of Limbs" has left me confused and reveling in their older material. I hope they play "Nobody Does it Better" but I just hope to have a good time.

That's really all I ask if the Brits are taking my money: to have a smashing good time.

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

Rusty axe

A rusty axe can't hack it. I, on the other hand, can and will.

But not here, not in this present bubble.

I find it very particular that people will go out of their way to keep others down.

An interview is just that: an interview. It's not a guaranteed position, nor is it a promise or legally binding contract to offer someone employment. It's an opportunity for the applicant to prove themselves capable of something for which they strive. How can anyone aspire if they aren't even allowed a moment to breathe?

I'm stuck in a dead end job for the time being, it seems.

Friday, March 4, 2016

Labium

I want
to

kiss

your lips

No...

Something more.

To taste more
than just the surface
and the juices

of your flesh

smooth, soft, supple
sweetly scented

sublime.

what lies

beneath
and beyond

your rosy petals

Those that conceal
an equally eager ferocity
to devour something of me

Give life to something barren
Through salted means

Your lips

The way they lure me
The way they invite me in
The way they keep me here

Hungry

Sweet

Perfumed

Better

You

Scented
senses
suppleness
supplanting serenity

your lips