Wednesday, December 23, 2009

The Perfect Song

There is no set best song ever, but everyone's entitled to a favorite. To me, the is no song more perfect then Pink Floyd's very own THE GREAT GIG IN THE SKY.

If you've never heard it. . . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAydj4OJnwQ
(note: the time refers to my MP3, not the video. and it sounds better on LP, so who cares.)

Intro: A lot of people I play this song to get turned off by the beginning. Shows how much THEY appreciate music. Feh on them, I say. The song starts out innocently enough, bridging the gap from "Time" (another absolutely fantastic song) with a lush piano line, then slide guitar (who does that?!), and some voiced over lyrics about not being afraid to die. I may not play piano very well, but I learned the beginning, so I know the chords well. They're HAWT. Not too complex, but not overtly simple. Balance. A good lead in to the next segment shows it building, but nothing can prepare you for what is to come.

1:09: EXPLOSM. Seriously. Like, the song just blows up. Clare Torry instantly became my favorite vocalist ever because of this one song. More than Ella Fitzgerald. More than Freddie Mercury. Torry's not known for anything else. But she goes and freaking CLIMAXES IN THE MIDDLE OF A SONG. ZOMG. This is my favorite moment in all of music. There's a reason I call it the FLOYDGASM. Because it's just that. The G7/Cmin9 alteration is absolutely gorgeous. it resolves, yet soldiers on. SO glad I learned these chords. I once had the honor of playing them while an extremely talented musician jammed the hell out on them. I was blessed/turned on. Another thing I want to bring up is what separates songs like this from modern music. New music is loud, the song is BIG. Layers upon layers. Wailing vocals, solid bass (melodic, not thumpy), piano ostinato, fat chords on the organ, a steady beat with never too much fill, *MWAH.*

2:32: The song begins to die from here, with certain points of rising up again, but never to what it was. The organ drops out, but still busting out the arousing vocals is the incomperable Clare Torry. The piano chugging out a solemn yet intensely satisfying riff. . . and it all finishes on one Cmin9 chord. . . And you're left agape. That didn't just happen. No. It's too good. No. . . too perfect. Lie down in a dark room and listen to this song. Do yourself a favor.

One more thing. . . if you're a dude with a girl who knows anything about anything, this is perfect for making your move. Don't take my word on it? Listen to the song. Imagine the intro as building up, being cutesy and all. Build up to 1:09. Picture in your mind at 1:09 her opening her eyes, overwhelmed. and at the peak yell, arching her back in ecstasy. I think you all just shat bricks. Seriously. The song is dictating it for you. No work! GET SOME.

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Let's be Touchy

Now I'm all against controversy and drama (I despise that ish), but I do love serious debate. Normally a touchy subject since so many people are sensitive to it, and no one really understand my point of view, so I'm going to share some thoughts on that old taboo subject: RELIGION.

My thoughs on religion:

re⋅li⋅gion

[ri-lij-uhn] Show IPA
–noun
1.a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, esp. when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs.

Religion is such a relative term for many that I thought it would be good to have a starting point. For me a religion can be defined as: a strict adherence to a mode of living life that covers all aspects of it, including but not limited to theism, diet, afterlife, and aesthetics. I highly respect anyone who can devote their lives so wholly to the cause of self-betterment.

Regarding the Existence of God:
Or as I like to say, a "hypothetical-omnipresent-omniscient-heavenly-being." I'll just say "God." It's easier to type out. You've probably already gathered I don't believe in God. So how do I believe we got here? I plan on being a scientist. Ergo, Darwinian Evolution. Further back, as in the creation of the universe? Well, some things are best left unsolved. If there were no mysteries, where would the spark be?

On Christianity/Islam/Judaism:
The reasoning for grouping these together is based on that they all believe in the same God, with the minor difference being the Holy Trinity. God, Yahweh, Allah, Jehovah, Adonai, it's all one and the same. Each one has its prophets, its holy sites, its holidays, so what's sets these three apart doesn't have that much to do with religion at all.Islam has gained a lot of notoriety because of the radical branches of it. Which is absolutely a shame, as I find Islam to be a very noble religion, especially with the five pillars. Aqidah is something I should look into more. Judaism, the oldest religion, has been adapted so that one need not be that religious to be a member of the community. While Judaism is trying to modernize, it is still a very old fashioned religion that puts a lot of emphasis on tradition rather than the religion of itself. It's very complex, something that you need to devote yourself to fully to actually appreciate for what it is. Christianity, however, is to me not a 'religion.' No other religious group actively tries to convert people to its ranks, or try to show itself off. Peace and Love are good messages and all, but pretty much every other religion preaches that too, and Christianity has been distorted into a business, which to me is mindblowing. The other main difference I see, or at least from an American perspective is the depiction of these three religions, and any others in general. Muslisms are shown as radicals, ready to blow themselves up at a moments notice, and the Jews don't seem to get any respect. They've been getting killed for 5,000 years straight now, can't we give them a break? Christianity though seems to be desired. Let's take a look at the ideal American child, in the eyes of many: Blond, blue-eyed, Straight A's, Honor Roll/Dean's List, Quarterback of the football team, track star, and last but not least, A devout God-fearing christian.

On Polytheism:
Eh, these seem to be more about praying and sacrifice than actual merit.

Juche:
I just found out about this while I was writing this. Juche is the official "Religion" of North Korea. The reason it's not adhere to the proper definition of religion is because it's more of a forced ideology than a belief system. Regardless, it's still a valid system, since it's about self-reliance, self-sustenance and independence. Of course in the old DPRK, you are your country, so that comes first in that circumstance. Either way, Juche is a way to look out for number one and not be a jerk about it.

On Buddhism:
Buddhism is what I consider the world's truest widespread religion. It covers everything, is all about the self, an overall explanation of how things work and came to be, and can be modified for personal circumstance.

Closing Thoughts:
As an agnostic, I don't care about religion. But as a person, I think theology is really interesting and deserves some deep thought. I may not believe, but given the right circumstances, you never know. After all, there are no atheists in a foxhole.

Feel free to comment or contact me about this. I always enjoy a good debate.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

La Furia: Bold Predictions

The world's biggest game hits the biggest stage next summer. Will you be there? 'Cause I won't.

Of course I'm referring to the FIFA 2010 World Cup in South Africa. and here are my predictions for said event.

Group A
South Africa (RSA)
Mexico (MEX)
Uruguay (URU)
France (FRA)

Winner: FRA
Runner-Up: MEX

FRA will prove that they are the world class team they are, beating the much lesser opposition presented to them. MEX will advance solely by being the next best team in the group, though URU should present a nice challenge for them. Don't be surprised to see URU advance on the shoulders of Diego Forlan, who is enjoying a nice spell at Atletico Madrid. Poor RSA though, they deserve better than this, being the host country. Too bad this is one of the weaker groups.

Group B
Argentina (ARG)
Nigeria (NIG)
South Korea (KOR)
Greece (GRE)

Winner: ARG
Runner-Up: NIG

Despite having one of the worst coaches in the world, ARG will previal based on raw talent. A very strong group, I would not be surprised if any combination of teams advance. However, this group will come down to sheer strength, and the NIG are the next best team, and they will only be helped by playing on African soil.

Group C
England (ENG)
USA (USA)
Algeria (ALG)
Slovenia (SVN)

Winner: ENG
Runner-Up: SVN

Now don't blast me for being an anti-patriot yet. I think we'll have a decent showing in South Africa. We're just not ready for the big stage yet. I wasn't convinced by our Confederations cup showing, given that ESP and BRA played atrocious. One thing I've learned though in my years of soccer, is to never count out any Slavic country, no matter how small. They're not all about churning out ridiculously hot woman one after another anymore. SVN, the smallest country in the draw, beat Russia to get to South Africa, and I don't think they're going down without a fight. Sorry ALG, a narrow win over Egypt isn't enough to get my attention.

Group 4
Germany (GER)
Australia (AUS)
Serbia (SER)
Ghana (GHA)

Winner: GER
Runner-Up: GHA

Ah, GER, continually, the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Luckily for you, Joachim Low is running the show. The other three teams are quite evenly matched, though AUS is on the decline and SER is on the rise. I anticipate GHA moving on with Michael Essien running the show. Their speed should be enough to overtake their rivals for the time being.

Group E
Netherlands (NED)
Denmark (DEN)
Japan (JPN)
Cameroon (CAM)

Winner: NED
Runner-Up: CAM

NED are another safe bet to win the group, I would have to say, no disrespect to the other teams here, who are definitely earned their place. JPN just doesn't have the firepower to keep up, and I don't think DEN has enough star power to be able to progress. CAM is an extremely fast team with one of the worlds best strikers in Samuel Eto'o and a decent keeper in Carlos Kameni to boot.

Group F
Italy (ITA)
Paraguay (PAR)
New Zealand (NZE)
Slovakia (SVK)

Winner: ITA
Runner-Up: SVK

For the most part, a one team group. ITA, as much as I absolutely despise them, should run away with this group. I'd be surprised if they conceded a goal. As I've said, never underestimate the Slavs. They don't get a lot of press, which works to their advantage. PAR looks a little outmatched and NZE, well sorry, but you don't really belong here. Congrats for making it, kiwis.

Group G
Brazil (BRA)
Ivory Coast (CIV)
North Korea (KPR)
Portugal (POR)

Winner: BRA
Runner-Up: CIV

Welcome to this year's group of death everyone, someone's going home early. . . and so is KPR. Welcome back to the big time, KPR. As a team, you deserve better. As a country? I wouldn't have it any other way. Have fun trying to salvage a point. Now the real question, who goes through? Dunga has quite a side in BRA, and expect them to roll through. CIV or POR? Both squads have immense talent, POR probably more, and you can never forget the Ronaldo factor. However, I feel CIV wants this just a little bit more, expect them to put on a show.

Group H
Spain (ESP)
Switzerland (SUI)
Honduras (HON)
Chile (CHI)

Winner: ESP
Runner-Up: SUI

Expect the world #1 to rake in at least 10 goals and move clear. Smooth like buttah. The rest seem to be fairly evenly matched, with no one having any one player to push past everyone else. I like SUI's midfield pairing in Almen Abdi and Johan Djourou, though, I think their balance should see them through for another day.

Round of 16

FRA v NIG

Here's where the tournament's big 'upset' comes into play. Every tournament has it, and the World Cup is no exception. Raymond Domenech's ineptitude should prove to be FRA's downfall, and they will not be able to mentally overcome the Golden Eagles. NIG's fast paced balanced play should demoralize FRA. You never know though, FRA could cheat and get away with it again.

Winner: NIG

ARG v MEX

Two spanish speaking countries at it. MEX won't be able get the ball away from ARG, who should still be the better side despite Maradona's lack of ability.

Winner: ARG


ENG v GHA

ENG class (and arrogance and sense of entitlement) surpass GHA vivance.

Winner: ENG


GER v SVN

SVN's luck has run out in facing the Rhineland giants. Low's squad should be too much for them to handle.

Winner: GER


NED v SVK

NED will prove once again they are a dominant force in football. All these tiny Slavic countries can only be upstart for so long before the talent is whittled down to the creme d'la creme (sp?).

Winner: NED


ITA v CAM

The reigning world champions will show why they deserve another shot. CAM won't make it easy for them though. *sigh*

Winner: ITA


BRA v SUI

BRA in a landslide victory. This one is over before it even starts.

Winner: BRA


ESP v CIV

Along with FRA v NIG, the best match of the first knockout round. Two very talented attacking teams, with CIV being led by players like Didier Drogba and Salmon Kalou, and ESP having the strongest striker pair in football. In the end, ESP will show why they are the world's #1. Their complete dominance in every aspect of the game should put CIV down for the count.

Winner: ESP

Quarterfinals

NIG v ENG

In what should be a compelling match, ENG should outclass the upstart Golden Eagles and put an end to what will be a fine showing for them. Sadly the clock has struck midnight, and Cinderella must go home now.

NIG 0-3 ENG


ARG v GER

A classic Brains vs. Brawn matchup here, with Maradona's side trying to muscle their way into the semifinals. Germany is no slouch however, and always has extremely competitive showings at any given event. Expect this game to come down to the wire, with Joachim Low's tactics containing the explosive ARG attack. Or maybe they'll get some lucky strike. Who knows, but GER is winning this fixture.

ARG 1-2 GER


NED v BRA

An all-out attacker against a counter-attacking team. . . which side can break through? Dunga has a rock solid defense with the break neck speed to counter back and score in a heartbeat. The crafty Dutch will find a way to make some noise but in the end will be overmatched.


NED 2-3 BRA

ITA v ESP

Another Attack vs. Defense battle, but ESP also has the defense to hold off anything ITA throws at them. ESP should show another classy affair.

ITA 1-2 ESP


Semifinals

ENG v BRA

This is just another stepping stone for the Brazilians. Clearly the better side, ENG will refuse to go down. The country that shows their passion for the game like none other, we'll definitely a lot of back page tabloids accuse Dunga's side of foul play, but it will all be for naught. They'll keep it tight though, closer than BRA would like. ENG wants this more, but passion won't be enough to win.

ENG 2-4 BRA


GER v ESP

A rematch of the Euro 2008 final. Tactics can only get you so far. Eventually you meet someone as good as you tactically, but with better players. As much as you've seen me respect Low, ESP should walk away with it. However, it won't be the cakewalk this could easily be.

GER 0-1 ESP


Finals

BRA v ESP

The world's outright two best teams for a reason. Both have the balance, the playmakers, the tactics, the passion necessary to win any given night. This will be one of the greatest games you will ever watch. Two teams at the height of their game in the biggest night of the sport. This will be a game to remember for years to come. So many intriguing matchups here: Torres/Villa v. Julio Cesar, Fabiano/Robinho/Ronaldinho v. the best keeper in the world, Kaka, Xavi, and Iniesta weaving through defenses, Puyol and Pique, guarding against the crosses of Alves and Maicon. . . I think Spain needs this and is a bit deeper than Brazil, so I think they'll just narrowly, by the slimmest of margins. This is one for the history books, folks.

BRA 1-2 ESP

FIFA 2010 WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS: SPAIN
Runner-Up: Brazil
Third Place: England
Fourth Place: Germany

Thursday, December 10, 2009

"Smash"ing Milestones

I might hate the game, and it might be corrupting our souls, and it may be distracting us more than necessary, but today, the 5000th match of Super Smash Bros. Brawl was held today in the Davidson A lobby.

5000? Wow, we sure have come a long way.

The Players -
A JEW (Moi) - Zero Suit Samus
Player 2 ('bot) - Meta Knight
SEAN? (AMeanGuy) - Captain FalconCaptain FalconCaptain FalconCaptain FalconCaptain Falcon
ELiAS ('Nam Pimp) - R.O.B.

So the match started off normally enough with my normal item spam, and subsequently getting trashed because of it. SEAN? got things started off by Falcon Punching me to the face. The first death of the 5000th match of Smash. . . how memorable. Anyway, by trying to stay out of the match, I survived a bit longer, and Falcon proved his worthlessness. Too bad. After dodging countless attack, my superiors got the better of me. Curse her lightweighted-ness. In the end, R.O.B. had too much damage to hold off Meta Knight. Congratulations to 'Bot for winning the 5000th match of Smash. Probably only right it happened that way. It's your game, after all :P

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Intro to Fantasy (666:101)

Never done fantasy football before this year, but I think I got it figured out. My team:

12-1, #1 seed Davidson A fantasy playoffs.

QBs
Peyton Manning (IND)
Ben Roethlisberger (PIT)
David Garrard (JAC)

RBs
Joseph Addai (IND)
Tim Hightower (ARI)
Justin Forsett (SEA)
Reggie Bush (NO)

WRs
Reggie Wayne (IND)
Sidney Rice (MIN)
Donald Driver (GB)
Mike Sims-Walker (JAC)
Jeremy Maclin (PHI)

TEs
Tony Gonzalez (ATL)

D/STs
Arizona
Dallas

Ks
Laurence Tynes (NYG)

Before I begin, I'd like to give a shoutout the the Colts for being awesome.

Now, I'm no expert, but it seems like the less you worry about fantasy the better. I perform routine maintenance on my team, but I don't scour the depths of players to find every possible good matchup play. Just sort of, you know, go with your gut. Of course that by no means sitting Peyton Manning because he's playing a good defense. Don't do that. EVER. He's already booked his ticket to Canton.

Another good rule is not to try and not rely on your team or alma mater. Lets say you happen to be a Jets fan. Don't get mad when your team loses every week (save two) because you think they're the greatest team ever. You don't see me with any 49ers or Seahawks players. Yeah, I'm from out there. I have an excuse for liking them. Rutgers alum? Well, you're not doing that bad with Rice and Britt doing well, but you're not going to do particularly well either.

My advice about fantasy? Take it slow, dont overthink or overanalyze. It's not worth it. Just roll with the tide. If your team isn't doing well, try to get some waiver pickups or make some trades and dump your guys. Or if all else fails, sell off your players to the highest bidder. Maybe you'll make your entry fee back.

Week 14 Predictions

PIT at CLE
Steeler Nation in a romp. They have to get out of this funk somehow. Expect a decent fantasy turnout from the black and gold since they'll probably hit garbage time early.
24-6 Steelers

NO at ATL
Someone's going to beat the Saints, and the Falcons ain't them. Drew Brees is going to keep doing is schtick and a recovered Ryan may only soften the blow.
31-17 'Aints

GB at CHI
The Pack made a statement on monday and get the very nearly whipping-boys of the NFC North. Good deal. Cutler will once again show he's the most overrated player in the NFL.
24-10 Cheeseheads

NYJ at TB
Contrasting storylines here. The falling Jets and the rising Bucs. I always though Clemens was a pretty good Quarterback, and I think he'll confirm that Sunday. Expect the Bucs to keep it close at home, but I think the decent Jets D will take this one.
21-20 Jersey/B

MIA at JAC
A game neither team can afford to lose. Hats off to both these talented teams who deserve playoff spots. Now that the Steelers and Ravens need to win out to get into the playoffs, this game means a lot. Jacksonville in a heartbreaker.
31-28 Jax

DET at BAL
See Ray Run. I saw him do that for 3 years. Now he gets paid to. The Ravens will win, but they don't have the firepower to blow anyone out.
24-3 Ray-vens

SEA at HOU
Weren't the Seahawks in the NFC championship two years ago or something? I dunno. Houston looks good. It's a shame they're in the best division in the NFL.
34-7 Neo-Oilers

DEN at IND
The Colts have won not because they're better, they're smarter and they do what they have to. Ergo, they're better. Denver is not. Case and point. Indy might decide to make it close again. A win gives the Colts home field advantage. Look for them to snatch it.
24-17 Colts

BUF at KC
Seriously? Does anyone care about this game? This one means nothing, lets move on.
10-6 DollaBills

CIN at MIN
Two strong teams performing weakly as of late. Should be interesting. Can Cincy hang tough? Will he-who-shall-not-be-named show his real age? Possibly the game of the week. Vikes pull of a gritty win in the dome.
30-21 Minnesoty

CAR at NE
Expect the Pats to come out all guns blazing after two. . .shortcomings.
41-10 Cheatriots.

WAS at OAK
Another ho-hum who cares game. Some sloppy football if you really wanted to watch.
17-16 Rayduhz

STL at TEN
This game comes down to one simple inequality: Chris Johnson > Stephen Jackson.
28-7 Oilers

SD at DAL
Aaaaand here comes another one of Dallas' late year slides. Not their fault for getting bad scheduling. Don't be surprised if they lose out.
34-17 Bolts

PHI at NYG
This one comes down to who wants it more. Which the Eagles do. Expect more bombs from D-Mac, especially if D-Jax comes back.
37-14 E-A-G-L-E-S

ARI at SF
As a Niners fan, I long for the days when we had a good quarterback. Alex Smith is not so. Montana->Young->Garcia. . . I miss that. Oh well. I'll give the youth some time. We'll come back. Just not yet.
35-17 Cards

In the rest of the football world, HALA MADRID. 'Nuff said.

Welcome to the Ramblings of a Madman.

I don't know why I'm doing this. I'm not actually crazy. Yet. Perhaps I'm doing this so I feel I'm making a difference. Who cares. I should be studying anyway. Before I get into relevant information, here's some random crap about me you may or may not care to know.

Interests: Photography, American Football, Rest-of-the-world Football, Communism, Good Music, Food

Turnoffs: Pharm/Engineering Curves, Warped LP's, Expos, Morning Classes, Anyone Useless