Psy, THE GREAT ONE!

JUST SAW PSY, the great genius on ABC New York New Year's show on the mighty ABC.  This guy from the Great Korea is magnificent.  His brilliant music and sensational dance skills electrify us all. I was feelin' blue but then I experienced the FABULOUS PSY from New York City.  When Psy's 'Gangnam Style' exploded right there on my great Sony TV I felt so marvelous and so happy I just about cried like a baby. The wild, high-energy sounds of PSY on New Year's Eve (Dec. 31, 2012) are so WONDERFUL!

This Odd Year

STRANGE is the way to describe this year.  I have tried and tried to figure people...but I cannot.  I am tired of the chaos and the heinous absurdity. Please help us, Lord. Get our culture OK.

Kenny Dorham

STRONG TRUMPET players are a real wildly good joy.  When one hears the bold, shiny jazz of the masterful trumpeter. Mr. Kenny Dorham ,then one knows true happiness.  Like the wise Lee Morgan and the delightful Freddie Hubbard, Kenny Dorham knows how to make profound, so modal and so ultra-moderne jazz on his mighty horn.

Get Inspired

FEELINGS OF NEED going on.  Let us be happy with what we have.  Many memories going through the brain are wonderful things.  If we can feel music, art, film and other creative ideas then we are all right with the world.  Good music, especially, can get us inspired.

'Double Indemnity' A Film of Cleverness

BILLY WILDER was a film director of genius.  His fiery 1944 film, 'Double Indemnity' wows me in a tremendous sense of dramatic excitement.  This weird noir story focuses on bizarre dealings of a mean woman trying to run a scheme to get rid of old hubby and make the big bucks.  Barbara Stanwyck and Fred MacMurray bring this film roaring to life.  The vile ugliness of the yuck wife sickens and yet even though there is so much seduction and raw seductive balderdash (pointed at poor Fred McMurray) going on, still the story is crafty and on so many levels a saga of how gross females and pathetic males can be with each other.  Criminal activity is often loaded with horror and in many ways this cinematic tale of a female psychopath or sociopath is full of the turgid meanderings of a berserk soul who lacks empathy or care toward other souls and the point is that this woman will just about stop at nothing to get what she wants.

The Weather Makes Us Culture Conscious

CHILLY WEATHER TODAY makes the guy known as me really think about our culture.  This time of year gets us all thinking about our basic ideas and how rough things can be especially dealing with the fiscal cliff.  PLEASE PROTECT US from FISCAL CLIFF CHAOS!

V Fun 1

MONTE CARLO in Vegas is big fun.  The place has lots of style  Ditto for the great historic place, The Flamingo.

John Lee Hooker

BLUES NUMBERS OF JOHN LEE HOOKER are fabulous.  The huge sound of energetic guitar and strong voice of Mr. Hooker really sells songs, beautifully.  Love that 'Boom, Boom, Boom' song of John Lee Hooker's.  It is so good. 

Thriller Films are Awesome

MY IDEA OF BIG FUN happens to be thriller films.  The movies that really engage our brains are so interesting.  The odd films like 'Talented Mr.Ripley' and 'Lady from Shanghai' are certainly memorable escapist flicks.  Also, the wild 'North By Northwest' is gigantic fun.

Johnny Mandel

A FAVORITE jazz composer and arranger is the super and thoughtful soul, Johnny Mandel.  His sounds are full of lovely music awesomeness.  I love the sleek tune he brought to life...'The Shadow of your Smile.'

Hank Mobley....Thoughts Again

BIG TENOR SOUNDS are really good.  Today, I listened to the truly magical jazz of the fine sax man, Hank Mobley.  The guy's sterling work on the historic Blue Note label amounted to big, awesome jazz.

Yamaha keyboard is Grand

FUN TIME today.  Chilly days mean special good moments.  I enjoy my Yamaha keyboard on cold and so harsh days like today.  Playing the super keayboard is feisty therapy.

Ray Brown....Super Man on the String Bass

THINKING JAZZ right now.  The style and the engaging jazz musical savvy of the vigorous Ray Brown on the string bass is terrific.  The work of Ray Brown with the clever Oscar Peterson on piano is very engaging. The sense of capricious jazz verve Mr. brown brings to performances is sleek and satisfying.  Jazz is strong because of souls like Ray Brown.

Fun Is Important

Let's get over the blues. Enjoy life now.

Atlanta Christmas Fun

MY YOUNGEST granddaughter loved her new pillow pet she got for Christmas from us on this great day, December 25th in historic Midtown Atlanta.  There is something bright, shiny and very terrific about the joy that brightens our lives when we experience the smiles and happy times of young children.  The lovely culture that is the South is so wonderful.

Happy Young Lady on Marvelous Christmas Day 2012

Such grand Yule fun

Had a super Christmas Eve fun in Atlanta. life is Super !

My youngest granddaughter on trumpet

This one plays with big energy.

Yule dinner.

Son and two granddaughters in Midtown.

hi

Merry Christmas!

Alto Sax today.

Going to play alto sax today.,,major fun time. Will solo at north Atlanta event..let's enjoy ourselves...heh, heh.

Cold wind..,brrrr!

This cold wind is tough today. Need to read plenty of toasty Charles Dickens today. love Chrismas season ,

A Culture of Traumatic Dimensions

WHAT IS GOING ON?  The horror of the brutality of last Friday, December 14 is still sticking in my mind.  How can this heinous insanity occur?  It hit me so hard when I saw the news from the state of Conn.  I think we need to deliver some kind of new perception to our young individuals in this country.  The odd and extremely decadent chaos that is an assault on the innocent is too much for us to bear.  Let us pray that we try to communicate with each other more and more and stop making mean souls or maybe the term is disgusting cultural madmen.  Let us try to evolve a new brand of culture...one that is filled with hope and not the harsh, agonizing chords of despair.

'Autumn Leaves'

GREAT FILM LAST NIGHT!  I settled down last evening to watch a fascinating 1956 film on Turner Classic.  The movie was a sleek and packed with verve piece called 'Autumn Leaves' starring Joan Crawford and Cliff Robertson. This film also had a stunning performance by the delightfully feisty Vera Miles.  This particular screen gem puts the focus on a middle-aged woman (Joan Crawford) who has a tremendous amount of harsh loneliness going on.  She meets a strange much younger man (Cliff Robertson) and a striking so odd relationship begins to develop. After a little while the Crawford character marries the Robertson character in Mexico.  Later, when the ebullient couple returns to Los Angeles she abruptly discovers her man was married before to a woman named Virginia Hanson (Vera Miles) and Crawford finds her new husband has all kinds of very strange baggage....the man is really one huge lie after another.  The film goes on a brusque schizophrenic binge and believe me the Robertson character just goes heinously psycho.  I found this movie compelling and cinematically remarkable because it hits one on so many  levels.  It delves deeply into the morass of modern hell that is seen in contemporary lonely lifestyles with all of the ugly trappings that involves.  This Robert Aldrich film is a brilliant work because it indicates how brutal life experiences can smash our emotional inner selves so violently.  In this film the performances of Crawford and Robertson are tremendously creative...indeed the journey into the tragic lonely horror of bizarre lives is very overwhelming.

Turner Classic Has Tons of Creativity

I KNOW for sure that Turner Classic channel gets us some very unique films.  And believe me it represents wonderful viewing for so many of us.

Good December Day!

Such a good day this one has been.,,eating lots of chicken now.

North Carolina Art Rocks

This picture by a creative North Carolina artist is a depiction of a pretty Greek isle. I love art for it shows the grand side of us all.

Red Rodney: Creative Trumpeter Indeed!

INNOVATIVE jazz trumpet guys are lots of fun to listen to. Red Rodney was a powerhouse bop musician in the late 40s and early 50s and believe me this guy could conjure up very fine solo work again and again in his sleek performances.  In 1949, Rodney got into the Charlie Parker quintet and his work was recognized as terrifically profound.  A bit later Rodney got going on the mighty flugelhorn and that worked out well, also.  At many appearances Red Rodney made a fine name for himself even appearing at the White House and doing a show for President Clinton. 

But of all the mighty Red Rodney work I really love the work he did with Charlie Parker.  The sound of the strong Red Rodney trumpet and the energetic alto sax of Mr. Parker is an indication of grand, ground-breaking jazz music.  Let us remember the wonderful Mr. Red Rodney, a great man of the trumpet.

Amazing Day

FINE DAY, this one.  This kind of creative, happy day is so profound...An infinitely grand experience, indeed!

'Broke Girls' Charm

'2 BROKE GIRLS' is a fun tv show.  This thing has lots of charm.  The best aspect of the show is the continuing joyous performance of the amazing Beth Behrs, the tall woman.  This is a clever fine program that always delights all of us.  This happy cultural brand of tv is a thrill to observe.  Bless you Beth Behrs and friends. 

University of Georgia Super Cultural Dynamic

The University of Ga. Is so strong now producing grand, creative artistic people..journalists have a super school now headed by the great, E. Culpepper Clark.

Liz and Dick

LINDSAY LOHAN did a really nice job in the Lifetime movie, 'Liz and Dick' last night.  I don't agree with the nihilist pundits who said she wasn't interesting in this film.  The bizarre persona that was Elizabeth Taylor is rather difficult to portray.  I felt Lindsay did a good job in the role.  I commend the people at Lifetime for going with this quite entertaining concept.

Nice weekend going

There is a good joy about November days like this in the mighty ATL. This season is so awesome, indeed!

Thanksgiving 2012

THANKSGIVING means so much to me.  I recall so many great memories of my Mother and My Dad getting ready for the big day at our home in the SW Ga town f Cairo.  The vibrant wild aromas of the good dressing, the fine turkey, the succulent breads, the incredible desserts and especially the red velvet cakes and pecan pies. Fun Time, Indeed! When Thanksgiving came we had marvelous meals with plenty of family around.  It is so good to have fantastic memories in our brains of all the marvelous passionate people of our rich and varied lives.  Let us be very thankful for our tremendous times in this life.  Let us be very HAPPY!  Let us get down on our hands and knees and be very thankful for the treasured moments and hours and the joyful excitement of real togetherness!

Ray Brown ... Super String Bass Man

REALLY fine bass work is good listening, indeed. Ray Brown and Oscar Peterson make fine jazz sounds. Yeah!

Constance Bennett....Vibrant Acting Force

MUCH FUN LATELY watching old 1930s films with the engaging star, Constance Bennett.  This lady much like the clever Jean Harlow is quite a creative force.  It is so much fun watching a really charming female soul working so much in the grand manner making films come alive for all of us movie enthusiasts.

Sam's culture joy!

Nothing like Sam's in this very beautiful season of the year.

Golden Corral Salutes Veterans

VETERANS HONORED by the great folks of Golden Corral tonight.  I am a veteran...I went tonight and had a free dinner because once upon a time I served.  Tonight at The Corral it was fantastic modern American culture...so many people of WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the Mideast Wars.  The Golden Corral individuals made everyone really happy.

Grand Saturday!

TODAY has been great.  Truly, a WONDERFUL SATURDAY!

Lana Turner....Style Soul Indeed!

POWERHOUSE MOVIES ENCHANT US. Watched the classic 1940s film with the mighty Lana Turner, recently...Of Course I mean, 'The Postman Always Rings Twice.'  This one has tons of smoldering intensity and Lana Turner dominates the wild screen.  This film can really amazingly entertain us all.

Good Friday

What a pretty Friday...culture is fun with this kind of day. Thank you, Lord!

Zoot Sims...Creative Sax Guy

SAXOPHONE GUYS like Zoot Sims are so very impressive.  I listened this Thursday to Mr. Sims and was delighted once more with his brilliant and so right-on mainstream approach to his jazz playing.  The man was heavily influenced by the immortal Ben Webster, a super tenor sax man, himself.  The fellow Zoot Sims displays an uncanny strong ability to draw us into his surging, provacatively complex jazz music.

Our Culture, Frankenstorm...Resilience

HURRICANE SANDY and all the giant weather strangeness and what some have called Frankenstorm hit the Eastern Part of the U.S. hard.  But the thing to remember is the fact all Americans know how to pull together in the difficult times.  Our culture is full of resilience and terrific strength.  Let's all pray that things get better soon with all this storm situation..

Peter Cushing

The actor, Peter Cushing, gives grand performances. Saw him
In good scary Turner Classics film
today. The man is clever.

Karin Slaughter

GOOD WRITING  pleases me so much.  The novelist, Karin Slaughter, has a quite clever approach to plot stylings.  Her brash, engaging writing draws readers in so well.  Her thriller, 'Triptych' is especially compelling.  Good read. 

Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars Really 'Rock'

GILLESPIE is an inspiration!  His All-Star groups are so fabulous.  One of the best men holding all this jazz strength together is the genius jazz bassist, the incomparable John Lee.  Hearing the bass work of John Lee at The Blue Note last Tuesday night energized me so much...His work on two Diz tunes...'Birks' Works' and 'Tin Tin Deo' was truly fantastic.  Another superior man is the elegant Cyrus Chesnut.  Last Tuesday his All-Star performance on the charged, emotional 'My Funny Valentine' was so very, very strong.

Great Friday

October Fridays in the Atlanta area are great...oh yes'

Chinatown lunch..NY.

Good fun.

Cool lunch in NY Chinatown..

Great food at China Village restaurant,

Highest Quality Jazz in NYC

Last night (10-16-12), We enjoyed truly fantastic, exciting jazz at The Blue Note down on 3rd Street in The Village. The Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Band guys were so great and 'hip.' Paquito on clarinet and saxophone, Terrence Stafford on trumpet, Cyrus Chesnut on piano, and Louis Nash on drums were all wonderfully great. Mr. Chestnut's interpretation of 'My Funny Valentine' was the most marvelously gorgeous I have ever heard. Trumpeter Stafford did brilliant soloing on the Immortal Dizzy's tune 'Birk's Works.

Blue Note Jazz Club ..NYC.

This Village Jazz spot is so very 'Hip.' Enjoying New York so much.

Fun at Rockefeller Center

30 rock. We visited home of SNL and it was so "cool."

Enjoy All!

LOVELY...that is right now.  The time of autumn is a grand one.

John O'Hara

GREAT NOVELISTS help our brains so much.  The clever characters in the novels of the masterful John O'Hara are so imaginative.  My two favorite books of John O'Hara are 'Appointment in Samarra' and 'Ten North Frederick.'  These are novels that are so good.  O'Hara is an excellent word man.

Culture/Pro Football Etc.

CULTURE comes in many forms.  In the American South the Pro Football topic is always "hot" in the fall,  In Atlanta right now, our Pro Football unit, The Falcons are a mighty strong team now.  They beat the Washington Redskins this merry day of Sunday, October 7, 2012.  And now the Falcons are 5-0.  Wow!  How grand is the fiery ethos that is the Culture of Sports!

Cy Twombly

ART IS SO UNUSUAL sometimes.  The American painter, Cy Twombly, is a fine exponent of Abstract Expressionism.  His paintings are bizarre...one can hardly figure them out.  The ideas engulf one when looking at these works.  The Twombly painting called 'Ferragosto II, 1962' is quite unique.

Rene' Magritte

BELGIUM was the home of the articulate artist, Rene' Magritte.  He developed an oeuvre of art essentially posited as Belgian Surrealism.  His work is clever.  Indeed the good aspect of Magritte is his belief that nothing is really what it seems.  This odd but compelling way is delightfully unique, I believe.  His pipe picture is grand...indeed you wonder what he is really telling with his sleek artistic vision.

'Cosmopolis'

INDEED the author Don DeLillo is an incredible modernist.  His stories articulate a provocative verbal  landscape that is thick with so much meaning and drive.  When one reads his work entitled 'Cosmopolis' one finds out that this man can really sculpt a fascinating mod story.

Wynton Kelly...Superb Jazz

PIANIST Wynton Kelly is so profound.  When one listens to the man with his brilliant concepts on the keyboard...it is fantastic.

Flannery O'Connor

THE VIGOROUS STYLE of Flannery O'Connor is remarkable.  This writer can come up with good stories that work so well.  'Wise Blood' is a great work to enjoy by the incomparable Ms. O'Connor.

Culture and Elmore Leonard

ELMORE LEONARD  is a very gifted writer.  His characters spring full grown from the printed page.  He has a sense of conjuring up gritty scenes that hold the reader's interest. Much like Damon Runyon, Mr. Leonard can make his characters really stir people with their unusual goings-on.  Leonard's novel, 'Get Shorty' is a "cool" modernist story that engages our souls so well.

Such A Beautiful Day

GORGEOUS AFTERNOON:  I enjoy the autumn days like this one.  Plenty of good sunshine.  The poetic aspects of my soul are invigorated with the exciting colors of fall.

Stan Getz Quartet with Chet Baker

GETZ AND BAKER are so dynamic.  The sax sound of Stan Getz is lovely and the unusual trumpet sound of Chet Baker is rhapsodies incarnate. The men's version of the lilting tune 'My Ideal' is memorable.

'The Human Stain'

GRAND DAY:  Watched again a clever film called 'The Human Stain.'  This movie with Anthony Hopkins and Nicole Kidman is a grand tour of many mental oddities.  It is a robust story that showcases poignant performances by Hopkins and Kidman.

Mall Fun

Cookie stores at ATL malls are happy places...They make you feel like a good child again. Southern super culture is so Fabulous.

Albert King...A Blues Master

LISTENING today to the resonant blues voice of the remarkable Albert King.  I especially love his interpretation of the good song 'Blues at Sunrise.'  It is a super tune.  Albert King makes life so good.

Blues Music Helps Us

BLUES music aids us all.  The sounds of this art form ease our hearts and souls. Life is now a super thing...blues sounds help us in many ways.

Superior Day Indeed!

TRULY LOVELY DAY going.  It is a vibrant joy  when one has a terrific Sunday like this one in the beautifully culturally super metro area that is Atlanta.

'Anna' is a grand film

LAST NIGHT I watched 'Anna Karenina'  on Turner Classic and it was fabulous.  Vivien Leigh was tremendous in the tital role.  What a lovely movie this is!  The Leo Tolstoy work is masterful.

Leo Tolstoy: A Total Genius of a Writer

RUSSIAN WRITERS like Leo Tolstoy are so tremendous.  It is amazing how Tolstoy and his magnificent work, 'Anna Karenina,' so completely captures all the complex variables of human behavior.  It is so difficult to encapsulate the wild rises and falls that take place in human lives and yet the Russian Genius of Words, Tolstoy does it with ease.  The unique quality  of the Tolstoyan characterizations is the way he blends lyrical romanticism in his people along with a powerful and so resonant sensuality...Tolstoy's brand of picaresque cleverness is overwhelming with its lean and passionate sonorous rampage of exciting and so memorable word descriptions.

Fabulous Eve

RIALTO ASIAN EVENT was indeed so delightful tonight.  Grand awards and exciting and unusual performances and all-in-all a tremendous cultural evening in the lilting land of the ATL.

Lovely ATL Event

GOING to Asian awards event today in the good ATL.  Life is exuberant...Indeed.

A Grand Southern Day

SUNSHINE...Plenty of it right now.  This is a grand day, indeed.  The culture of the South is fabulous during this kind of truly beautiful weather. 

Edwin Arlington Robinson

THINKING POETIC today. The sleek poet Edwin Arlington Robinson wrote poignant poems...a favorite of mine has these giant and unique words..."Miniver Cheevy, Child of Woe.:  I love the emotional resonance of this poem.  This kind of iconic, poetic art is terrifically lovely.

F. Scott Fitzgerald...Complex Man of Numerous Dimensions

THE ART OF CLEVER WORDS can be mind boggling for many of us who gain terrific satisfaction out of the joy of reading.  Men like the sleek F. Scott Fitzgerald can bedazzle us with their shrewd interpretations of modern characters who have agnst-oriented tales to tell.  I first started reading Fitzgerald when I was very young....and his tremendous novels like 'Great Gatsby' and 'The Beautiful and the Damned' overwhelmed me.  I got into a rather intense mode of psychological introspection going through myself straining and aching to ferret out literary art gems from the vivid prose art of the provocative Mr. Fitzgerald.  The wild and persuasive works of Fitzgerald live because of their biting, sardonic passion and cavorting elegance showing a finesse view of modern life that is brilliantly engaging.

Flower Arrangements Are Thoughtful

When I gaze on the lovely, minimalist arrangement on my dining table it soothes my soul. Art comes at us in all shapes and sizes.

Ben Webster...Good with ballads

ELEGANT TENOR SAXOPHONE JAZZ is so beautiful.  Listened this grand day to Ben Webster.  What a super tenor man!  His work in so many small groups and of course with the mighty Duke Ellington is so very profound...so grand!  What lovely music the man produced.

Good Turner Fun

I SAW A GREAT FILM last night on Turner Classic.  It was the 1931 movie, 'Smart Movie' starring Mary Astor.  This gem, directed by Gregory La Cava, is quite modern in its ideas.  It is hard to believe so much provocative modernism could be contained in a 1931 film release.  The commentary and saucy wit in this 'Smart Woman' script was so enjoyable.

Having Fun Is Important

I HAVE REALIZED having lots of gigantic fun is so wonderful.  If you can lovingly "dig"  the enjoyment of life, then this is really fine..  The men and women you meet...i.e. new souls...well these people can give you a super new sense of giant fun in living your life.

NASCAR Fun with Me at JapanFest

Enjoying seeing the famed car of Akinori Ogata at JapanFest at Gwinnett Center Sunday, 9-16. Akinori will drive this car next weekend in New Hampshire.

Giant JapanFest Fun Coming

BIG JAPANESE FUN tomorrow and Sunday.  Come to JapanFest at Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway. Duluth.  Enjoy creative culture stuff, delicious food.

Japan Is Fascinating

The first time I went to Japan it amazed me...the culture was so dynamic and the people, music and dance were all so wonderful. Still today, all that is Japan is quite unusual. Be sure and enjoy Japan at the fabulous JapanFest tomorrow and Sunday at Gwinnett Center

JAPANFEST WOW FUN IS SATURDAY, SUNDAY

MANY of us are so excited about the marvelous JAPANFEST big event coming this Saturday and Sunday to the Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway in the city of Duluth.  Lots of fascinating and exciting things of Japan will be happening...Unique fact on Japan:  First Novel 'Tale of Genji' came out in 1007.  Enjoy the great JAPANFEST!

Japan's Complex Culture

THE JAPANESE CULTURE is very intricate and engaging.  The music, the haiku, the unusual dances indigenous to the islands of Nippon...all these concepts are super and a huge delight for us all to experience.  For a lot of fun then, visit JapanFest this Saturday and Sunday at the marvelous Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth.

9-11 Anniversary

TODAY marks the eleventh anniversary of 9-11.  It is a rugged day.  Let's all remember the strong people of our country!

More on JAPANFEST

REMINDER:  JAPANFEST is Saturday and Sunday....In Duluth.  Great Fest, Indeed.

Big JAPANFEST Coming Saturday, Sunday

THE ANNUAL JAPANFEST is coming to Metro Atlanta again this coming Saturday and Sunday, 9-15 and 9-16.  The big event presents a wonderful spectrum of unique Japanese cultural experiences for all ages.  Children will love all the numerous special things designed for kids.  Also, the musical performances and Karate and Kendo shows etc. will provide visually exciting things for all visitors to the two-day festival.  Again this year the event will be held at the Gwinnett Center Convention Center located at 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097.  If you want lots of fun and a chance to enjoy all things Japan then come to the glorious JAPANFEST this coming Saturday and Sunday. 

Pleasant Friday

BEEN LISTENING to Muddy Waters blues singing today.  The sound of his passion and his unbridled genius thrills my thin and tender soul.  Yes, indeed.

Good Guitar Man

KENNY BURRELL ....what a fine jazz guitar man this fellow is!  His album called 'Then Along Came Kenny' really kicks it into high gear with strong jazz licks.  Love his and his guys version of the feisty Charlie Parker tune, 'Yardbird Suite.'

Good Weather Joys

MUCH BETTER WEATHER going right now.  Makes one enjoy life...maybe reading Charles Dickens.  In music...time to enjoy Smetana or Charlie Parker or maybe, Dizzy Gillespie.

Labor Day and American Culture Motifs

IT  IS LABOR DAY AGAIN:  So I say "Happy Labor Day!"  This unique day is a grand bit of cultural Americana.  We celebrate all the hard-working people of this country.  Today with this ODD economy it is difficult to keep things afloat.  However, we are still trying hard to manage things well.  Let us have pride in ourselves and our labors.  We are good people.

Stanley Kubrick Films Complex and Riveting

MOVIES THAT HIT HARD are such fascinating experiences.  I have been thinking about two Stanley Kubrick films that really "get me" as the pundits say.  These movies are  'Lolita' with the delightful, pretty Sue Lyon and the shiny engaging work with a grande guignol performance by the clever Nicole Kidman...i.e. 'Eyes Wide Shut.'  That thing is such a sexy, shrewd jewel.  Figure this fact right now people:  Mt. Kubrick seems quite a brashly innovative film director.  He gets the job done, beautifully.

College Football Soars Again

GRIDIRON TIMES ARISE ONCE MORE:  Part of our inherent rugged Southern culture energizes its self again.  Today, the feisty DAWGS nation is happy...Yeah...The University of Georgia defeated the men from Buffalo.  It is a fine Saturday in September, indeed!

'Lady For A Day' Super Film!

GOOD EVENING:  Last  night I watched the 1933 Frank Capra movie called 'Lady For A Day.' Love the good, positive attitude, cheerful movies of Frank Capra.  These things are charming.  The "Lady' movie spins the tale of Apple Annie, a poor soul.  By unusual circumstance she is elevated to the position of high society charmer.  This little movie has lots of fun, romance and adventure. 

La. Folks Are So Strong

HURRICANE ISAAC and its gigantic hit brought havoc to La.  But it must be remembered that the people of the proud state of La. are very strong.  Their culture has lots of strength. The world of L. Armstrong and King Oliver is a great one!

Voltaire....Such a Strong Free Thinker

FRENCH INTELLECTUALS are fascinating.  Recently read again some of the exuberant works of the exceedingly clever Frenchman, Voltaire.  The man with his sleek advocacy of free thinking is so interesting.  Especially enjoyed reading again the remarkable Voltaire work, 'Candide.'  The man is a wild and marvelous genius.

Charlie Christian...Powerhouse

FOR SUPER CLASSIC JAZZ GUITAR, please try some Charlie Christian material.   His 1941 session material is outstanding, indeed.

Classic Rocker Ideas, Ruminations...

'RADAR LOVE' is such a good classic rock song.  The Golden Earring powerful work by that talented Dutch musical aggregation back in the early 70s is dominant and vital and bright and engaging.  Somehow, the blunt quite super-charged classic rock music of the 1970s era really overwhelms us.  Gigantic fun...this stuff.

Dynamic James Cagney...A Genius Actor

1930s FILMS ARE WILD!  Thinking today of the feisty movies of the clever James Cagney.  I know one of my favorite films is the sleek gangster story that William Wellman made a fine film of...Of course I am making reference to the interesting cinematic work called 'The Public Enemy.' Watched this thing again recently and was enthused about the picaresque, poignant acting skills shown by James Cagney, the magnificent Jean Harlow and the crafty Joan Blondell.  Mr. Cagney is so unique because he so dominates the screen when he is on camera.  Also, the smoldering beauty Jean Harlow is a lot of fun to watch for she has a shiny feminine set of qualities that prove to be enchanting.

Beautiful Georgia Day

TODAY IS GREAT!  What a truly beautiful Georgia Day This One Is.  As Thoreau said let's all get back to the cultural ethos...i,e, nature.  I Love Life so much!

Please Protect Us From The Storm!

WITH ISAAC coming toward the Southeast, all of us are praying for divine help.  Please Help Us All!  Protect Us, Lord!

Psalms 91

BEAUTIFUL thoughts are a very meaningful experience in the good ideas that one finds in Psalms 91.   The feelings of superior help and kindness and thoughtfulness  help one's soul tremendously.  Finding the grand feelings that come from reading Psalms 91 amounts to an expressive and joyful experience!

SW Ga. Thoughts and Considerations

SOMETIMES it is difficult to explain the people of Southwest Ga. to other folks, especially those of the urban areas like Atlanta or Charlotte or NYC.  Some individuals think that persons from rural areas are not clever or smart, but nothing could be farther from the truth.  Growing up in the vigorous, so creative area that is SW Ga. has helped me greatly to develop fine dimensions in my life and in my somewhat varied personality.  I especially appreciate all my teachers especially those who helped inspire my interest in Latin, French, Shakespeare, Chekov and fine music like that of Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Shostakovich, Bedrich Smetana, Georges Bizet, Mozart and the incredible Gustav Mahler.  Because of tremendous cultural influences I consider myself so blessed...And Indeed Life Is A Terrific Joy!

Katie Holmes' 'Go' Movie A Thinker's Film

KATIE HOLMES is an astounding actress.  I figure she does unique film work.  One movie that proved quite odd but compelling was the provocative film of hers called 'Go.'  This particular work had numerous spins that looped out in all directions and yet it was sleek and vitally clever.  For a bit of finesse Katie Holmes work dig 'Go.'

'Relaxin' So Right, Indeed!

THE 'RELAXIN' SET with the powerful Miles Davis Quintet sends me into ecstasy.  What a superior group this one is.  I listened today and became overjoyed with the brilliant creativity of Miles and friends.  John Coltrane on tenor and Red Garland on piano were especially memorable.    

I think the sleek tune 'Oleo' was especially great and also the bright and lyrical thing called 'I Could Write A Book.'  Fine work here by Miles and friends.

Golson saxophone jazz engaging

Good sax music is marvelous.  The big sounds of Dexter Gordon are so grand.  I  figure the bold improvising of the feisty Mr. Dexter Gordon is vigorous and just right for helping one's mood. The 'Go' album of Mr. Golson's is so good.

Southwest Ga. People Are Wonderful

I an thinking today about my people, the men and women of Southwest Ga. They are a strong people with lots of passion. They are of the land but also so many of these souls are great thinkers...indeed many of them are in the genius category. I remember doing a Chekov play when I was 16. Some of my Atlanta friends didn't know what to think of that. I am proud I have the blood of a Southwest Ga. man.

'The Town' Is A Powerhouse Drama

SO MUCH TAUT EXCITEMENT is found in the good movie Ben Affleck put together called 'The Town.' I watched this thing again and was taken by the clever way the film cavorts around with plenty of all kinds of rugged action.  I feel the sleek, engaging acting of Ben Affleck, Blake Lively and Jeremy Renner represents very imaginative dramatic performances by these people.  The milieu of Boston is a great setting for this really rugged story.  The clever guy from 'Mad Men,' Jon Hamm does engaging, feisty work in 'The Town' also.

Daddy and Mama

Two great people. Passionate!

My Parents

Indeed, my parents were the marvelous essence of all the great Southern people. They were great South Georgia people.

Wardell Gray...Clever and Cool Tenor Guy

'THE SQUIRREL' so swings like a bop music enthusiast's dream.  Listening today to the robust tenor saxophone sounds of the intense Wardell Gray and My, My what a thrilling and remarkable set of concepts were sent to my somewhat of a curmudgeon's brain.  Wardell Gray creates firebrand bop jazz music that contains loads of zesty panache.  I feel good because two sidemen did good on this number, too.  These fellows were the exuberant Art Farmer on the trumpet and the very classy Hampton Hawes on the piano.  This shiny bop jazz puts a stirring kind of jazz gumbo into my rip-roaring Friday and I am now enthused by all these numerous blessings the Dear Lord lovingly provided me.

Dizzy Gillespie Big Band So Powerful

You get great strong musical chords with the innovative jazz of Mr. Gillespie. His 'Manteca' soars because it represents genius.

Cooler Weather, Freud Help Our Cultural Ethos

THIS COOLER WEATHER we have been having in my Georgia has made me happy.  I love this kind of stuff.  Also, I massively enjoy reading semi-heavy literary material.  This activity stimulates the brain quite well.  I have been reading the writings of the provocative Sigmund Freud, lately.  And again I have come to the realization of what a genius the man was.

Lester Young....Sensational Tenor Man

THE STRONG SOUNDS of Lester Young on the wonderful tenor sax helped me today.  Listened a bit to the imaginative Lester Young doing the great opus, 'Lester Leaps in.'  What marvelous music the guy creates.

'House of Bamboo' Revisited

THE FILM NOIR movie 'House of Bamboo' is so good.  Watched this film again last night and was blown away by its intense dramatic work.  It sweeps the viewer into the 1950s world of urban Japan.  I feel the acting of Robert Ryan and Robert Stack come across as so remarkable in this one.  The rugged story carries people right along putting folks into a careful watching of all the Postwar Japan action.

Great Gospel Church Music

YESTERDAY,  in my church we had a marvelous musical program.  The music was all passionate gospel material and it made me cry like a baby.  The piano players were tremendous musical souls.  Two great numbers were 'Hold On' and a passionate and intense version of  'Precious Lord Take My Hand.'  Great music.

Arthur Miller....A True Artist Of Modern Drama

PLAYWRIGHT OF INNOVATION,  that was Arthur Miller.  The man had the tremendous ability to compose plays that were amazing and you certainly did not forget them.  A good example of this cleverness was the very textured Arthur Miller play, 'A View From The Bridge.'  Miller and his time with the magnificent Marilyn Monroe amounted to a really intense, interesting time, also.  Miller had a brilliant screenplay mind and when he  put together the terrific film, 'The Misfits,' he did a beautiful job.  The performances of Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe were really powerful in this movie.

Dave Brubeck...Jazz Impresario

PIANO MAGIC:  The essence of the imaginative music of Dave Brubeck great jazz pianist is an incredible wellspring of infinite jazz keyboard ideas.  The terrific sounds of the huge hit 'Take Five' send one into a complete sense of joy.  The sparkling and exciting music of the Dave Brubeck Quartet is thrilling.  I especially love the artistry of his alto sax man, Paul Desmond, also.

Big Joe Turner Can Rock The House!

LOVE THOSE JOE TURNER stylings.  The blues singer and old-style rocker from way back generates a huge sound that is so remarkable. Listened today and got happy again enjoying Big Joe Turner and the mighty song, 'Shake, Rattle and Roll.'  Also loved hearing his 'Flip, Flop, and Fly' again. Plenty of major fun happens with the pulsating greatness of Big Joe Turner.

Gore Vidal Passes

Like Norman Mailer, Vidal was a great one. He is gone but his genius lives.

Edward Hopper's Art Has Poignant Pull

'ROOMS BY THE SEA' seems indicative of a painting with a picaresque esthetic art modernism that can seduce us with its sleek rather minimalist approach.  The pictures conjured up by the clever one, Edward Hopper, can bring across a myriad of subtle emotions to both the casual as well as the sophisticated viewer.  It is imperative that we learn to grasp all the relevant art concepts of people like the ebullient Edward Hopper and of course the terrific wild one, Kandinsky.  The sphere of art fills up our thirsty souls with a grand chemical of true joy that we really need so much.

Lee Child Has Lots of Style

THE JACK REACHER books by Lee Child are remarkable.  The man has an uncanny ability to spin a really good yarn.  I find the thriller mode of fiction interesting.  We need some feisty, virulent escapism stories.  Our friend, Lee Child, provides ample servings of this kind of material.

Becoming A Captain

This Air Force ceremony at Randolph Air Force Texas brings back many memories.

More Vietnam Ideas

THE POWER of the super novel entitled 'Tree of Smoke' is so overwhelming and brilliantly meaningful.  The author, Denis Johnson, understands the complex, intricate and meaningful experience that is the Vietnam mode and the big story here brings the reader into a tremendous new level of passionate understanding about what has shaped so many of  us.  

My oldest son, Ernie

He is a great saxophonist. Like his Dad he has a creative and joyous love of music. All kinds.

My youngest son, Gary

He loved basketball so very much. Especially liked the Atlanta Hawks.

Vietnam Artistry

This Denis Johnson novel, 'Tree of Smoke' has so much greatness. It is do meaningful to read an author who comprehends the Southeast Asia experience.

Summer Weather is So Changeable

THE RAINS CAME....My area is somewhat cooled.  What a true blessing.

The Magic of Vivid, Lyrically Bold Art!

JASPER JOHNS art is what I call powerhouse.  It has a bold brand of expressionism that overwhelms the viewer.  With all the wild hot summer days it is fun to go back and enjoy the shiny art of Jasper Johns again.  Art is a wonderful healing essence, indeed.

On the Passing Of My Cousin, Allen

YESTERDAY afternoon I got a gigantic surprise.  I came back from doing an errand and suddenly I got a phone  call.  I was told that my cousin Allen Scruggs was dead.  This really shook me up emotionally.  I always felt close to this man.  He and I were very much alike because he had no brothers or sisters just like me.  We both loved good theater, good movies, fine music and all the Arts and Creative Things of Life.  I remember (because he was 3 years older) that he got me interested in people like the writers Philip Roth, Gertrude Stein, Dorothy Parker, F. Scott Fitzgerald and the fantastic man, Ernest Hemingway.  Also I loved the fact that Allen enjoyed the Dramatic Arts...especially the fact is that he enjoyed playwrights like Tennessee Williams and Arthur Miller.  I was also proud when as a young man he went to New York City and soon began to make a name for himself as an interior designer.  A strong soul who has the ability to make our lives have more definition and flavor and true zest is a truly wonderful thing.  I miss my First Cousin Allen (who died of Alzheimer's, yesterday, July 14, 2012) so very much.

Super-Duper 'Covert Affairs'

'COVERT AFFAIRS' was great on USA Network last night.  Piper Perabo does a wonderful acting job on this show.  It is so much fun to really relish the thrill of good tv.

Cruise-Holmes Settlement Kind of a Surprise

BIG COUPLE NEWS TODAY:  It's hard to believe that Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise came to a settlement today on their divorce proceedings.  I am glad things came to a conclusion.  I hope the grand Katie Holmes is going to be all right on this deal.  I have been a fan of the gorgeous and talented Katie for some time but I confess I am not impressed with Mr. Cruise.  He is rather strange...A bit unusual...

So Glad!

HAPPY DAY!  I am so glad the Internet situation worked out grand for me.  I confess I was shook with all the news leading up to this vivid  day called July 9 2012.  I am listening to terrific early John Coltrane music in vibrant celebration of my Internet joy.  I am SO GLAD today!

Good Day

WONDERFUL...Today is so lovely.  It is a nice cultural change in my area.

Heat Easing...Wonderful!

THANK GOD!  The heat is easing up...our culture needs this.  oh .yeah

This Incredible Heat

THIS HEAT IS SO STRONG!  I have never seen stuff like this!  Help Us Lord!

The Greatness of Athens, GA

ATHENS, GA is so great!  Wonderful music town....WOW!  Aint that the truth....B52s, R.E.M.  and all kinds of other good groups.  I remember going with some friends many moons ago to a medium-sized venue out on the edge of Athens....Lord....They Had marvelous music....And when I was there it happened there was a big group of men and women from the North Georgia Mountains.  They put on a great buck dancing performance.  What a fabulous place, Athens, GA is! Georgia Theater and UGA and wonderful thinkers and artists...Athens is a fascinating place!

Jimmy Smith: His Jazz Is Remarkable

JIMMY SMITH made my afternoon happy.  I enjoyed so much diggin' Jimmy Smith and his jazz organ version of 'Mack The Knife.'  What a great jazz performance by this thoughtful, provocative musician. Hey!......Let's Blow Our Jazz Horns For The Great Man....The Incomparable Mr. Jimmy Smith.

The Ronettes....Magical People

THE RONETTES and their great song 'Be My Baby' made me feel so good today.  It is amazing because when you hear this magical music you really want to hurry up and dance.  This is a fine and delightfully feisty day.  Oh....YEAH!  Hey...C'mon...Let's Rock Out On All Our Fun Time Keyboards!

'Dancing' Number Hits The Spot

MARTHA AND THE VANDELLAS music helped energize me today.  I listened again to the huge classic "Dancing In The Streets.'  This number brought back so many terrific memories.  Fun experiences.

Charlie Sheen's Got a Fine New Venue

CHARLIE SHEEN'S NEW SHOW really made me happy last night.  Watched the thing on the mighty FX Channel and it was a real delight.  The writing was so clever and feisty.  Also, the acting on the part of Charlie Sheen and his associates was so marvelous.  This kind of special comedy is a delightful television experience.  I am so happy for Charlie Sheen and friends.

Cool Music Is So Much Fun

COOLING OFF WITH WEST COAST JAZZ is loads of fun.  The temp is wildly hot now and so I listened to Art Pepper jazz, grand West Coast stuff.  It really helped me out.  Art Pepper has COOL SOUNDS.

Protect Us From Rough Weather...PLEASE!

WEATHER NEWS CULTURE can be daunting.  We are all shook about the storm going on in Florida and the southern portions of Georgia.  We are hoping and praying things calm and we get some peace going in our lives.  Help us, Lord!

More Ideas on Hank Mobley

EVEN THOUGH HANK MOBLEY had a whole lot of competition from men like John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins, the guy Hank Mobley was still able to come across with a very distinctive tenor saxophone voice.  Starting in his late adolescent years, Mobley managed to build quite a following for himself.  His work on the articulate album 'Soul Station' still knocks me out.  His sound is very robust and passionate and that makes his brand of jazz interesting, indeed.

Weird Economy Culture Stuff Happening

WHAT IS HAPPENING with our very strange economy culture in this country right now? There is no clearly defined economic thrust going on.  There is a lack of coherent thinking.  Every time things get a wee bit better and the Dow manages to creep up then the very next day the bizarre Dow takes an horrendous nose dive again.  This kind of unusual frenzy in economic cultural tailspins is rather maddening kind of like listening to strange John Cage music or reading an Anthony Burgess literary work.

'Rock of Ages' Odd Film Story

THE NEW 'Rock of Ages'  film is rather odd.  I don't know why so many critics blasted this movie.  It is not super but the thing is really not bad for what it is....kind of a rollicking piece of entertainment filmdom. The fun performance of Julianne Hough is charming.  The feisty Alec Baldwin is so cool.  Also the wily Tom C. does a rather nice acting job.  Let's all give this film a chance. 

A Big Happy Father's Day!

 HAPPY FATHER"S DAY 2012!  It is Father's Day tomorrow and we all remember our Dads or  Daddies or Fathers, as some say.  Who are these human beings?  They are men with many layers of personalities.  I know my Daddy was a vigorous, hard-working man all his life having gone through the Depression and WWII.  Later when I got in the Air Force I remember the unusual look in his eyes when he learned I was going overseas.  It is complicated being a Daddy.  Do many of us recall the odd "hip" things we said to our Dads or do we like me recall the powerful and so emotional times with our Dads.  I remember sitting with my Dad in his Assisted Care Home and it was just after my Mother passed away.  I remember on that same strange night when I heard the sounds of him crying and trying to pray to his God who meant so much to him.  Many people do not realize how many dimensions there are in a man's personality....But one thing is for sure no matter what has happened or how unusual ....all these men are our Dads and as my Dad said one time about his Father (My Grandfather) "He was my Hero!"  God Bless All Our Fathers on this Beautiful and So Meaningful Time in our lives this thing we call FATHER'S DAY!

Culture of The Techs Is Articulate And Engaging

I DID WINDOW SHOPPING today in in one of my favorite malls.  I was again blown away by all the brand new tech gadgetry I encountered.  The American culture is becoming more and more crazily advanced with all this fresh technology revolution.  Fellows like Steve Jobs, Paul Allen and Mr Bill Gates have done so much to enrich and jazz up our lives.  It is invigorating this living in the joyous sphere of mod tech wunderkins and brilliant individualists.

Renoir Represents A Vibrant And Meaningful New Energy

Great art from Renoir has a tendency to heal all our worn-out souls.  We all need esthetic boosts to keep our strident adrenaline going well.  Feisty art is a fabulous nutrient for producing a more creative and happily terrific lifestyle.  In our Saturdays and Sundays we need grand art experiences to propel us past the modicum of ho-hum living.  It is good to be alive!

Sax with air of mystery

TENOR MAN who creates good mystery sounds. The guy I am referring to is the style tenor man named Hank Mobley.  I needed some strong and really vivid jazz today so I listened to Hank Mobley and groip working out on a tune called 'Hi Voltage.'  It was just perfect....Mr. Mobley was a fine big boss tenor stylist on this one and the clever trumpet work of Blue Mitchell packed plenty of power, also.

Andy Warhol Has Art That Swings Beautifully

ANDY WARHOL has a form of Pop Art that has so much good kick.  His soup cans and famous people and other unique bits of subject matter can slyly overwhelm us.  I believe Andy Warhol produces art forms that are so dynamic and infused with modernism that they are glorious.

Ben Stiller....A Super Talent

BEN STILLER had a good interview on Kelly Ripa's show this morning.  The comic wit of Ben Stiller and his wry and clever father Jerry Stiller is so engaging.  The comedic films of Ben Stiller have always been favorites of mine.  Today on K. Ripa's show Mr.Stiller showed once again his stylish and sophisticated brand of verbal repartee that is vigorously beguiling.

Hank Mobley...Brilliant Artistry Fellow

LIKE A. CALDER"S ART (SHOWN HERE)  Jazz horn men are wonderful...especially the sax guys!  This us quite true of the soulful tenor guys.


TENOR SAXOPHONE IS A MARVELOUS INSTRUMENT! And the big, lyrical horn of the incredible Hank Mobley is terrific.  This man who was born in Eastman, Ga. and raised in Elizabeth, New Jersey did superior musical work.  I especially love his performances on the albums, 'Roll Call' and 'Soul Station.'  His super playing and his writing skill has now commanded a lot of tremendous respect. 

Healing Rains

THE HEALING RAINS today are so welcome by me.  Our culture needs refreshing...And the fervent naturalism of lovely rain reminds me of poignant John Coltrane solo work. Elusive weather modes prove quite fascinating.

Honoring Mr. Ron Taylor

TONIGHT WE HONOR A GREAT MAN!  This is an interesting day because this evening at Manuel's on the mighty North Avenue in Atlanta we all honor the great Atlanta journalist, Mr. Ron Taylor.  Last Thursday, Ron Taylor passed and all of us grieve.  We miss his incredible sense of style, his tremendous writing and editing.  The man was a wonderful  soul in the pantheon of Georgia journalism  He came out of the marvelous North Georgia town of Summerville and went to the University of Georgia.  He did awesome work there on The Red and Black, the college paper.  Later, he went on to Atlanta and became one of the top men of The Atlanta Journal.  This man, Mr. Ron Taylor, was my friend.  He was a great soul, a fellow with a great laugh, grand style and most importantly he had a terrific PASSION that he brought to all his endeavors.  He was a GREAT ONE!

Green Bean Casseroles Rock

VEGETABLES FIRE UP MY SOUL.  I had a lot of delicious vegetables yesterday.  The synapses of my brain felt so good. I thrilled with the feisty taste of a big green casserole.  Listened to Buddy Guy music, too. Lately, I  love vegetables more and more.

Ron Taylor, A Brilliant Journalist Has Passed

A GREAT JOURNALIST HAS PASSED.  This past week a fine man and also a true friend of mine left us. I am speaking of Ron Taylor, a remarkable journalist of The Atlanta Community and also a man with a great soul.  I first met Ron in Athens, Ga.  That day years ago was a turning point in my life.  Ron's smile and his engaging laughter were such fun to be around.  He had a vigorous, zest about his writing and indeed his words were brilliant. Tears are in my eyes about the passing of a tremendous human being, Mr. Ron Taylor.

The Grand Art of Vincent Van Gogh

IN THE PAST MINUTES I have been enjoying some grand art.  I have studied a wry and intense painting of Vincent Van Gogh called 'Sunflowers.'  Somehow Vincent Van Gogh speaks to me in a brilliant way.  In Van Gogh there burns a flame of erudite sensitive artistry that overwhelms all the people who take the time to really study this individual's work.  One time long ago a friend of mine looked at me askance for using the word individual but if truth be told the person did not realize that when I used the term individual it is a word that contains muli-layers of human emotion. To speak vividly, I must say that like some essayists like Bazin and others I enjoy the ardent emotionalism that a man like Vincent Van Gogh brings to his artistic vision. Many aesthetic values are espoused in so many concept areas like  the work of the sleek soul of photographer Henri-Cartier Bresson and there are other elegant souls in the creative arena also, witness the enchanting work of Federico Fellini with his strong film of genius 'La Dolce Vita.' But getting back to Van Gogh, the fellow captures the essence of a brand of art that is vigorous and intoxicating.  The man is not just a stylist he is a great soul.

Of Memorial Day, Weather and Unique Vibes

MEMORIAL DAY HAS PASSED.  The big day was fun...but it eased on by.  Today is a quiet Tuesday with odd weather going because of a Tropical Storm near the Georgia coast.  It is cooler now....Our culture has been cleansed again by the weather vibes.

'The Lady From Shanghai'

RITA HAYWORTH AND ORSON WELLES! ......What fabulous souls of the acting sphere!  Watched the engaging film of the mighty 1948,,,,the superb one, 'The Lady From Shanghai.'  This movie is a delight, a visual smorgasboard of so many grand, cinematic layers.  The refined and so brilliant acting styles of Orson Welles and the clever Rita Hatworth are quite remarkable.

Memorial Day Nearing Again

THE MEMORIAL DAY holiday is coming!  What a great day in our culture.  It is grand that we honor all our people.  American culture is a tremendous experience.  A grand concept, indeed.

The Dutch Painter With True Intellectual Power

VINCENT VAN GOGH:  What a fabulous and strong and passionate painter.  This Dutch soul had such a remarkable influence on 20th Century Art.  His bold colors and vivid sweeping esthetic concepts could really engage the enthusiasts of the art realm.  A favorite of the Vav Gogh genre is the wistful painting called 'Sunflowers.' Indeed ths work is overwhelming.

Warhol's Art Represents Huge Power

ANDY WARHOL:  This man had such a feisty and quite unique approach to art.  His Pop Art visions were so very explosive.  It is definitely a truism the poignant art of Andy Warhol is an essence that all of us can enjoy.

VIETNAM....Unique Times For Many Of Us

THAT OTHER WAR:  Many people do not talk about the wild one...the thing called VIETNAM.  I wonder why this is so.  In my mind I believe the strange variables so many of us went through because of Vietnam indeed changed the cultural fabric of this country of ours so much.

A Powerhouse Of The Music World

STEVIE WONDER is way up there in the line of powerful people of our U.S. musical culture. I have been thrilled by his great songs for a really long time.  One of my special favorite songs of his is the lilting and beautiful number entitled  'For Once In My Life.'  The thing is so remarkable.  It can bring tears to one's eyes.

Robin Gibb....A Great Man Of The Music World

ROBIN GIBB of the Bee Gees has passed and I am heart-broken.  I am going to miss this wonderful, so talented soul.  I will always remember his warm and truly fantastic music.  Indeed the sound of all the Bee Gees was so marvelous.  It is a sad thing in our culture the passing of the marvelous Robin Gibb at the age of 62.

Otis Redding...Great Southern Man

OTIS REDDING is one of my favorite singers.  His powerful Southern voice expresses so well all the wild and so emotional times in one's life.  Grand day...this Monday...so enjoyed once again the passionate sounds of the Otis Redding song called 'Try A Little Tenderness.' His version of this tune is overwhelming. It is so meaningful. Another grand song today that I heard was the powerhouse called 'Sitting at the Dock of The Bay.'  Such a GREAT number.  Dig Otis Redding and really enjoy fantastic music.

Beautiful Saturday, This One.......

GORGEOUS SPRING DAY!  I love a tremendously beautiful Spring day like this one.  The shiny sunshine...the zesty May air...the love that abounds...well all of this makes me feel grand.  I read a remarkable Time magazine issue today.  Their writing is getting better and better.  The grandness of Spring and the ecstasy of wild, lilting prose is just vivid wonderment of the highest degree.

Classical Music Is A Terrif Amount of Fun

 OF SMETANA, CHOPIN, MOZART.......
So many rivers are always flowing in our diverse American culture.  I know this brand of music represents a real thrill for our brains.  Lately. I have been enjoying engaging composers like the Bohemian, Bedrich Smetana (the composer of 'Bartered Bride' overture etc) and also the lilting grand music of Chopin and the sensational Mozart.  This aural experience of thrilling classical music indicates a loving, resonant texture in our lives.

'The Client List'

'THE CLIENT LIST' is a fun new television program on the mighty Lifetime.  The stunning Jennifer Love Hewitt does a remarkable job as the young Texas mom on the show.  She has many things going on and viewers get drawn into her story very quickly.  There is plenty of viewer interest on 'The Client List.'

Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers

COHESIVE JAZZ GROUPS are super sounds, indeed.  The sounds of Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers are typical of this kind of concept. Listening today to the grand tune 'Nica's Dream' was a grand aural experience.  The good jazz concepts of Hank Mobley on tenor saxophone were a lot of fun on this composition, also.

JAZZ MUSIC HEALS US ALL!  Guys like Art Blakey help us out!

The Day We Honor Our Moms

MOTHER'S DAY 2012:  This event we call Mother's Day is a wonderful part of our overall culture.  Those people we call our mothers are marvelous souls.  I think about how much my mother instilled in me...especially her love of art, music, films and the elements of what some call the creative life.  My mother gave me an intense passion for life...and for that I am so grateful.

A Fine TV Man

MEMORIES.  George 'Goober' Lindsey has passed on. The man was always so brilliant on the 'Mayberry' show and 'Hee-Haw.'  He brought so much fabulous Deep South culture into all our lives.

Miles Davis Quintet Has Celestial Vigor

MILES DAVIS knows how to completely and uniquely engage all of us in his provoking and so emotional music.  I think one of my favorite works of his happens to be the 'Workin' With The Miles Davis Quintet' on the profound Prestige label.  This lovely Prestige unit (Number 7166) is heavily laden with soaring modern jazz terrific sounds.  I wanted super jazz today so I listened to the Miles Davis and company material.  Two tracks that were so meaningful were 'In Your Own Sweet Way' and the so imaginative, bizarre number called 'Trane's Blues.'  It is this kind of gigantic jazz accomplishment that adds the grand ingredient of zest to our lives.  In this good set Miles has backing from the vigorous John Coltrane on tenor saxophone, Red Garland on piano, Paul Chambers on bass and the classic person of the percussion world, Philly Joe Jones on drums.

B. Behrs Is A Fun Soul

BETH BEHRS of the '2 Broke Girls' show was great on David Letterman last night.  The zesty Mr. Letterman did a nice interview with her.  Love this culturally fun show because it shows how regular girls or guys can be so fascinating.

Guitar Guys Who Are Nice and Edgy

ROY BUCHANAN is a smart guitar man who can put together mighty good solo work.  It is rare to hear guitar fellas who can put a nice edge on their sound, in other words conjure up some brittle, kind of fresh ideas.  I heard Roy Buchanan playing 'Green Onions' this afternoon.  And it was somethin' else...let me tell ya.

Mystery style programs intensity can crackle

'PERSON OF INTEREST' strikes me as a shrewd television show. The idea is to ratchet up the amount of mystery intensity really powerfully and thoroughly engage the viewer. This CBS show does a fine job of bringing that kind of stuff to fruition. It is my thought that grand mystery shows are so satisfying because in a remarkable way they meld the sleek tributaries of emotionalism and the unique brainy thoughtfulness of picaresque intellectualism.  I know 'Person of Interest' gets all cylinders going and the mental engine of the thing crackles with intensity.

Nerds Are Fascinating Individuals

THE NERD REVOLUTION is upon all of us.  One of the prime forces in this mode is the strength of the really feisty CBS tv show, 'The Big Bang.'  I confess as a rather intense nerd soul myself I love the wild antics of all the Big Bang people...especially the bizarre Sheldon and the clever Leonard.  This CBS gem is loaded with so many exuberant fun moments...as the vernaculay might put it..."It's a Gas!"

'The Avengers' .....Fun Film

'THE AVENGERS' is coming this Friday.  Can hardly wait for this fine movie opening.  The powerhouses are all there....especially Hulk, Iron Man, Captain America and of course Scarlett.  This grand, vividly fun film production should do well at the U.S. box office.  Certainly, hope so.  The antics of the super-hero types are always fun to watch.

'The Mentalist: This Show 'Rocks'

'THE MENTALIST'  is coming on TV tonight.  This guy is excited.  I love this fast-paced show with its sleek plot twists and excellent acting and directing.  The people, Simon Baker and Robin Tunney, ....my how they sparkle in this CBS series.  Imaginative goings on, indeed.  Have yourself an interesting Thursday...Dig 'The Mentalist'  when old 10 p.m. EST rolls around.

'Mad Men' Is A Television Joy

EXCITED about seeing another 'Mad Men' tv episode tonight.  This show depicts the odd culture of 60s America in quite a feisty way.  Jon H, and John Slattery are fantastic in this program.  Also the marvelous Jessica Pare is wonderful.

The Colonnade: A Super Restaurant

THE COLONNADE  is a very fine restaurant on Cheshire Bridge Road in Atlanta.   Again I had a truly fabulous meal there, today.  The place had delightful food, grand ambiance and the mainstream ideas of good Southern culture are there in this marvelous dining establishment.  Enjoy The Colonnade for wonderful experiences.

Wonderful Times

LAST NIGHT was great!  I attended  a marvelous gathering of news business friends over in historic Dunwoody.  So much fun enjoying good company.  In our culture a gathering of friends is great.  It is so meaningful.

Kurosawa......Amazing Man of Film

FILMS OF JAPAN......I enjoyed so much today watching again the so dynamic films of the wondrous Japanese director, Kurosawa, Akira.  Wow...I watched his surreal and lovely cinematic works 'Kagemusha' and 'Ran.' Lord.....I tell you they were mesmerizing movies. Japanese films possess vigorous intensity.

Rain....BLESSED RAIN

THE RAIN is coming!  A huge blessing indeed.  My....our culture needs healing rain.  Some times water is so good.

Dogwood Festival A Big Serving of Atlanta Fun

The DOGWOOD FESTIVAL is coming to our beautiful and so lovely Atlanta in a few days.  This thing provides a massive serving of fun for huge bunches of people in our part of the U.S.  It is a heavily-laden amalgam of all the thrilling aspects of Deep South culture.  Hey folks, I can hardly wait for this gorgeous event in the merry area we call Midtown Atlanta.

Harlan Coben: Imaginative Writing Man

STAY CLOSE is the title of the new suspense book by the creative, interesting suspense novelist the sleek and remarkable fellow, Harlan Coben.  I recently finished reading this book and let me tell you people this man can really get the job done.  He is a real wordsmith and like the grand words biz fella Lee Child the guy Mr. Coben can come up with satisfying yarns that hit us deliciously on so many levels. I think the indicator of a good book is whether or not it is a real page turner.  Well, this new Coben work falls beautifully into that category.  Our culture needs all kinds of quasi-cultural dimensions and writers like Harlan Coben do well in providing that needed brand of creative boost that's good for all of us.

'The Avengers' Is Gonna Be A Good 'Un'

BIG WOW TIME COMIN'!   Pretty soon now a really fun time movie is hitting the U.S. movie market.  Of course what I am talking about is the new film stunner that spins the wild Marvel Comics story really strong. Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson and Chris Hemsworth and the fine Cobie Smulders jazz up this film in a so engaging way.  This thing should be a nice money-maker.  Plenty of truly super hero types cavort in this picture.

NICK FURY and his feisty team come up with really choice antics in this cinematic saga. Scarlett Johansson is especially charming in this film. I know 'The Avengers' is well worth the wait.  It is a Good 'Un!

'Marley' Makes Me Happy

I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED the funny, lovely movie 'Marley and Me' again last night.  This charming dog film with the remarkable Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston is such a gem.  We need grand happiness and seeing the clever Jennifer and Owen brings superb thoughts to fruition in us.

What A Grand April Sunday!

SO TRULY GREAT! .......... IT IS A BEAUTIFUL Sunday here in my part of the American South!  I love this kind of vivid, sunshiney day.  It is a marvelous portion of our Southern Culture, this enjoyment of grand weather and superb Spring Days.  Let is us remember...we are the victors and we are fine people trying to do our very best.

Tommy Flanagan sure rocks the jazz piano

FLANAGAN TIME!  Today was a fine, so delightful day. I listened to the feisty Tommy Flanagan and his trio. The clever Tommy Flanagan was so good on the keys and the mighty Elvin Jones was so great on the drums. Fine sounds going so well this merry day!

Lee Morgan Has Tremendous Trumpeter Style

LEE MORGAN is one super jazz trumpet giant.  The man plays so vigorously and creatively.  Today I got into a fine, deep listening experience on his classic album entitled 'The Sidewinder.'  It was so strong and poignant and hit the emotional mark well on this grand Spring morning.  Superb jazz trumpet souls are a wonderful breed of human beings.

The Miracle of EASTER!

THE MIRACLE! Early tomorrow morning it will be Easter!  This is the miracle of Jesus.  He is RISEN!  Let us Praise GOD!  Help all things to get much better.  Turn around our lives, Lord.  God Bless each and EVERYONE OF US!

Entertainment Movie So Thoughtful

DORIS DAY, JIMMY movie called  'Love Me or Leave Me' was great last night on Turner.  I watched this film again and what a jewel of a story it was.  I was mesmerized by the way it depicted the unusual aspects of the music and entertainment music.  The story had a lot of vivid meaning and it evoked so many memories in my soul.

My Thoughts on Good Friday 2012

TODAY on this Good Friday I have been thinking about a lot of things that matter to me.  I am blessed because me and my people have the freedom to come and go as we please. That is powerful passionate stuff in this chaotic world that is 2012.  I believe so many people are going through such agony right now with all the stresses and strange economic goings-on.  I know many people are wondering how in the world they are going to be able to put food on the table for both the adults and the children.  Also...there are the incredibly sad people who have made big mistakes...and they are searching for answers and some peace. If you are Blessed on this Good Friday in our unusual American culture then stop and think about that...Give thanks!  Remember the downtrodden...pray that somehow things will get better.

Harold Land...Tenor Man Who Is So 'Hip'

JAZZ HELPS US OUT so much...especially if we are feelin' down. Today, I listened to a remarkable tenor saxophonist Harold Land who can really come up with high levels of sparkling creativity. The album, 'West Coast Blues,'  contains super work. In this set Harold Land is joined by the following mighty sidemen:  Joe Gordon, trumpet, Wes Montgomery, guitar, Barry Harris, piano, Sam Jones, bass and Louis Hayes on drums.

THE POWER in this collection is dynamic and so intensely forceful. I loved the main tune, 'West Coast Blues' with its robust swingin' totality of sounds. Also, I liked the profound, a bit odd number, titled  'Compulsion.' This Harold Land entourage has an uncanny ability to get the job done musically.

Clever Jennifer Aniston A Real Fun Soul

JENNIFER ANISTON has proven to be such a fine comic actress. She had another Jennifer Aniston comic jewel of a film on tv today...the fun story, 'Along Came Polly.'  I enjoy the attractive, feisty comic actress Jennifer Aniston especially because she gets me out of my blue funk doldrums.

Jasper Johns Is A Wow! Man

WOW!  The forceful art of the intense Jasper Johns is so dynamic. Contemplate the man's work and a soul will be transported into a more defined sense of grand creativity.  That's what we need in our oddball culture.

'The Hunger Games' Is Innovative

REALLY POWERFUL:  Let's say this...'The Hunger Games' is a very feisty film. It is the kind of movie that makes you forget the miasma of inarticulate crud one might be dealing with. Indeed J. Lawrence and friends do shrewd work in this giant, money-making movie.

Let's Hope

HOPE that tomorrow is an improvement. I think today is a sour kind of deal that us old codgers don't like. It has been this kind of a situation: Etc. and Etc.  Let's view Turner Classic tonight....maybe feel better.

Bill Evans Produces Kind of Nice Work

BILL EVANS brand of jazz piano is a little happiness. Today has been gross...so a lift was needed. Any help would have been good, but Bill Evans keyboard work was a good recipe for this disgusting day.  I sort of liked Evans work on the vintage number...'Someday My Prince Will Come.'  Imagine many women kind of like that energetic song. Jazz helps heal us, sometimes.

Fine Lunch Comin' Soon!

GOLDEN CORRALL is so good!

I plan to eat lunch at a fave place today...Golden Corrall in historic Gwinnett County, Ga. It is marvelous to have all those vegetables and fish and shrimp/ what a blessing the little things in life are!

Gas Prices....What a Horror!

PAINFUL.....That's what is goin' right now in our absurd Americana culture.

It is hard to believe how DISGUSTING our gas prices are going.  And our big fellas are doing nada...we are just being dragged more and more into the yech slime that is our current economic absurdity.

PLEASE HELP US!  Put relief into all our sickened lives!

Oscar Peterson: Grand Jazz Indeed!

OSCAR PETERSON  is a man who made my day a bit better just now. I dug listening to the shrewd piano man playing a feisty tune called 'Mirage.'  And it was great.  I feel this individual Oscar Peterson has a grandiloquent, pizazz kind of jazz concept that is just right for the bizarre and silly curmudgeon known as me.

The Unkind Are So Odd, Thoughtless

I AM TIRED of the mean, unkind people. They foul up our odd culture even more. You try to communicate with them...and they do not even respond. Why is this bizarre stuff happening more and more?  Why can't we have a little fun and joy and some good responses in our torpid lives?

Casino Stories Are Interesting and Odd

'THE COOLER' is a sleek movie that paints a portrait of the wild world of modern Vegas. I find this film clever and forceful especially because of the carefully constructed acting performances of William H. Macy, Alec Baldwin and Maria Bello. Finesse well accomplished is also the essence of this wry story line that molds this film together.

VEGAS FASCINATES with its brash modern cacophony of unusual sights and sounds and achingly passionate beings.  The soul of contemporary art is resonant with encapsulating modernism and that is what resonates so beautifully in the big casino arena that is the world stage shown in the scintillating film known as 'The Cooler.'

Social Thinking Modes

WHY is it so hard for some souls to communicate with those of us who are somewhat intense? So much of our current culture is odd. In many ways one wonders if all this absurd, stand-offish machoism is just left over absurd reasoning that spilled over from a slothful river of frenetic dumbed-down education.

INDEED it would be good if some individuals would set aside their crass, infantile fears and truly communicate with everyone.....not just a select few.

Sidney Lumet Movies: Real Film Powerhouses

SIDNEY LUMET is one of my very favorite film directors. His style incorporated so much amazingly intense passion that  it really seemed to engulf the moviegoer. A special favorite Sidney Lumet movie of mine is the uncanny, wild one...the saga called 'Serpico.' This thing had harsh, very provocative power.

ANOTHER GREAT ONE was the terrific intense film, 'The Pawnbroker.' It was heavily laden with all sorts of bizarre, yet so meaningful emotional vignettes. It was an overall film delight.  The art of Sidney Lumet remains so vigorously marvelous.

Louise Nevelson: Vibrant So Artful Soul

UNIQUE AND IMAGINATIVE are the two words that sum up the artistic, profound joy that is the creative work of the famed sculptor, Louise Nevelson.  I know that when one surveys the vigorous energy that seems beautifully encapsulated in the work of Louise Nevelson then one is overwhelmed.

ENERGETICALLY INSPIRED by the exciting found objects works of Marcel Duchamp, Louise Nevelson managed to produce unusual sculptural art concepts from the array of bizarre things she discovered. Vivid esthetic artfulness is a wondrous thing to contemplate.  And Nevelson had so many truly fine artistic joys that she conjured up for us all to enjoy.

Buble Produces Fine Vocals, Indeed

MICHAEL BUBLE is a fascinating singer.  It is refreshing to hear his performances because the man understands how to put just the right amount of style on a song.  It is amusing to notice how he can cavort easily from wild, up-tempo tunes to really emotional ballad songs, the kind that really grip a person. Listened to Buble and his fine album 'It's Time' today. Sleek material abounds in this set.

ESPECIALLY LIKED his interpretation of 'Save the Last Dance For Me' and the strong tune entitled, 'Feeling Good.'  The melodious sounds of Mr. Buble made this afternoon a nice one.

Bullying Variables Hard Cross To Bear

From the age of 13 all the way to about 17, I saw so much bullying that it made me sick. Way back then the way to go was to mentally beat up on any person who did not "fit in." I never could comprehend why this tough guy way of thinking was so popular...indeed it was the rage, the most wonderful thing young humans could do. Also, if you were not that into sports then you were ostracized and treated like a non-human.  The problem never seemed to go away and the mental anguish just kept lingering and lingering. I do not know why in our culture we feel it is a grand idea to squelch any being who wants to be a free thinker and just not run with the rest of the pack. If a person enjoys classical music or jazz or fine dramatists like Tennessee Williams or Arthur Miller or even A. Chekov then that soul is a bad bug that needs to be stomped either mentally or physically. However, I have meditated on my increasingly acidic sarcasm defense mechanism over the years and I realize (now that I am wretchedly old) that I used over and over my picaresque shallow skeptic brittleness and virulent nastiness to get back at all the mental loons that swirled around me seemingly all the time. I think now that the fact that I used all my skeptic word processes and nihilistic mental angst over and over as a young male is in truth an absurd reasoning also (thanks for the "absurd reasoning" paradigm" my thoughtful one A. Camus) and I know now that I am an inane charlatan perhaps one might say a skinny fox running around in the Georgia environs with my horrendously gigantic head and emaciated silly-looking body. Another aspect of my years that really sickens me is the fact of being rejected so many times. My mother kept telling me her loopy mantra of "just be yourself" and all of that common sense conundrum. I was never a smooth-talking really savvy male so I hit the wall socially...it seemed like the rejection idiocy was a constant albatross to bear. To sum up...Why in the world can't we learn how to make better lives for ourselves and somehow find a little joy and happiness in this steadily more complicated and meaningless American society. .

Bird, Diz...Good, Lilting Friday Jazz

Listening today to a duo of super jazz icons...Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie. The sleek, innovative music coming from these two men is so joyous...yea...so powerhouse. I loved hearing again Gillespie and Parker doing truly fine material from a good '47 concert set.  The sounds of Bird and Diz make us jazz enthusiasts really smile.

Southern Family Culture Inspires

My son has two daughters...i.e. i have two granddaughters.  It is a marvelous part of the Southern culture, this thing we call family. Or as some famed writers have said..."our blood."  When you see these people growing and becoming more and more creative it is inspiring.

 As the Book of Proverbs says we need to trust in the Lord with all our heart.  I know family enriches each and everyone of us. We are good people and we enjoy the members of our overall blood line. Southern culture is tremendous.

An Engaging Japanese Story Quartet

THE OTHER NIGHT I saw an odd, engaging Japanese film called 'Kwaidan '(1964).  The movie was a series of four stories with each one possessing a considerable amount of bizarre twists. I believe the little story called 'In a Cup of Tea' was especially unique, for this one is about a man who keeps seeing a weird image looking at him from the lower part of his cup of tea.  The other three stories...'Black Hair,' 'The Woman in the Snow' and 'Hoichi the Earless' ...are also full of remarkable, emotional twists that will make even the most whimsical mind delighted.

CRAFTY, ODD EFFECTS abound  in this jazzy, film conumdrum. It's rather amusing and grande guignol  in the fact that the clever ghosts seem to be pulling the very life out of the characters. I think the intense emotionalism in 'Kwaidan' really works well and the overall effect is powerhouse kind of like the visceral clout prevalent in rather contemporary Japanese cinematic works like 'Yojimbo' By Kurosawa.

Southern Culture And Emotions That Are Painful

I do not know why it is so difficult to socially communicate with others. The thing that puzzles me about living in the South is the way so many of us have so much anger and horrid animosity toward others. Also, it is strange how if you are a bit different in your thinking then you can be totally rejected as a human being or you can be socially wrecked.

Even though you try to be yourself (as your mother might have admonished you to do) the fact is if you are not some sports jock or muscled hot-shot macho man then you are nothing...a non-human.  I am sick of seeing this lunancy of people refusing to be attracted to someone just because they may be somewhat intellectual or what we Southern folks call "different."  Some souls even say they always pick jerks to be attracted to and they look like they bemoan that fact and yet these same humans keep right on doing this odd mode of behavior over and over. It makes a person wonder why can't people enjoy life with all kinds of people and dig music people like Tom Petty and unique movie souls like Jack Nicholson in "The Shining." 

I wish it could be possible to have lots of really strong intense joy in life and not this horrible disgusting feeling of being destroyed by another human being...And of course it is also extremely hard on a human when you feel you are being "scammed" or "played." I wish it were ok in this weird culture of ours to be "happy" like what happens when you hear good Jimi Hendrix music....or maybe good romantic vocalists like Patsy Cline. I want some love and respect and understanding...I feel that many of us are this way. Let's get things much better and please all you deities let's have some real protection from all the evil, mean and disgusting jerks and morons who try so hard to harshly and disgustingly destroy us.

My youngest Son

He was a tremendous writer. So talented. Creativity was his way of life. Memories are so good.

Bamboo lifts all our spirits

Gazing at the delicacy of bamboo arrangements helps us. Makes us realize the beauty of nature and somehow we begin to enjoy our lives even more. God bless us all. Let's get back to nature as Thoreau said. What a great Thursday this is.

NY Giants...A Cultural Great Unit!

I WANT TO SAY that the super performance of the New York Giants and their ace QB Eli Manning was so great at this year's Super Bowl.  It is fascinating how many cultural tributaries flow through our country. Sunday, Feb. 5 big greatness happened again. Truly it is a terrific joy to see the artistic creativity that was shown by the mighty GIANTS.  Blessings be to Manning, Coughlin, the Maras and the fine Giants organization!

Jo Jones, A Marvelous Man of the Drums

SPARKLING, bursting and pulsatingly profound jazz drumming can grab us and allow us many percussive sound thrills. One man of the drums who changed modern music a tremendous amount was the artful individualist, Jo Jones.  This fellow was born in Chicago but moved to Alabama where in the latter part of the 1920s, he slid smoothly into the jazz music arena playing in the fine aggregation, the Walter Page Band.  A little bit later, in 1933, Jones got into the Count Basie unit.  That band was strong and feisty in the 1930s. His eloquent music career rocketed upward and a bit later it was realized Jones had a terrific impact on grand drummers like Louie Bellson, Max Roach, Kenny Clarke and Buddy Rich.

WHILE IN THE POWERFUL COUNT BASIE BAND,  Jo Jones revamped the total concept of what imaginative jazz drumming was all about.  Jones moved away from the stodgy four beats a bar routine and experimented rather vigorously coming up with a bright and shiny sleek touch on the cymbals.  Jones could make a percussionist's weaponry surge with new artistic breakthroughs...indeed his brashness and vivid style brought his music into a finesse-oriented new wild world much like the tremendous engaging impact of an Andy Warhol in the discipline of art.

The Shi-sa dogs of Japan are remarkably similar to the well-honed artful pulsating that is right there in the very beautifully engaging jazz drumming art of Mr. Jo Jones.  Creative, fiery ideas can surround us all so very beautifully. It is "cool" to find ourselves enveloped in all the bold, rivers that make up the modern artful total life experience.

CLEVERLY, the delicate and profound percussive thinking of Jo Jones can prove fascinating for the listening audience. In the late 1930s and 1940s the man, Jo Jones, created unusually imaginative jazz music working with the sophisticated Freddie Green on guitar and the very fine Walter Page on the bass. These guys engineered a provocative melange of sounds for the glory days of the Count Basie Band. Vibrant, aggressive jazz drumming like that of the skilled percussionist, Jo Jones, produces passionate aural fun for us cats who truly dig the meaningful music that is jazz.

WE NEED GREAT DRUMMING to wake us up to the vigorous thrills that make the wonders of life a  panorama of greatness we all can enjoy.

Mark Wahlberg Has Lots of Acting Style!

MOVIES: Wow!  They can energize me in a really good way.

POWERFUL!  Yeah, high energy music abounds in adventure cinema.

    The films that are gigantic fun tickle me.  The new action story 'Contraband' starring the mighty Mark Wahlberg is a terrific package of thriller-flick fun. There is no question that Mark Wahlberg can tremendously bring a real powerhouse acting job to the huge cinematic screen. If a person is trying to derive grand escapist delights then this mighty new movie, the one tagged 'Contraband' is "cool."

Book of Proverbs=Maximum Meaning

HAPPY TIMES:  I am thoughtful today, Many things have happened lately. I realize realizing certain modes of thought can ease our souls, tremendously. I want you to know I am reading The Book of Proverbs in the King James Version of the Bible lately. It seems to me that the passionate words of proverbs are passionately GREAT!

ENJOYING THE SUNSHINE: Today, I am loving viewing funny videos like lego man in space. I want so much for this to be a day that is full of fun time. Let's LOVE LIFE!

Deep South's Complicated

DEEP SOUTH CULTURE  is complicated.  Unusual stuff happening.  Today, lots of us are jumpy about the weather.  So much flooding and odd storms sticking things on edge.  Alabama had rugged stuff already...we are all praying now that things ease up.  One fantastic thing occurred yesterday.  I enjoy the clever art that is Pro Football and a favorite unit of mine....the mighty New York Giants....won yesterday.  Makes me happy.  Now we got us a grand Super Bowl coming up...The Giants and The Patriots.  Let's all enjoy our lives and whoop it up as the little tykes say.

Late Night With Letterman Is 'Right On!'

GOOD THINGS are poppin' in late-night tv.  One guy is getting things done, beautifully. I have enjoyed the mighty David Letterman Show so much in the last month or so.  The man has a truly renewed energy and his comedic work sparkles with feisty originality.  I delight in his crafty way with political material.

TRULY, I also am tickled constantly by David Letterman's ability to connect well with his audience.  The guy is a terrific delight as a creative, masterful television personality. Letterman has a lot of good savvy on so many subjects.  He has been tremendous working in interviews with guests like Brian Williams.  Again, David Letterman has a good show.  The guy "gets it."

'Dangerous Method' ....Film Cleverness!

I SAW A VERY ENGAGING FILM  recently.  It was 'A Dangerous Method' and it brings in famed historic people like the remarkable guys Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud.  This gem of a film has fine performances by Keira Kinghtley (the patient), Viggo Mortensen (as Sigmund Freud) and Michael Fassbender (Carl Jung). I enjoyed the depiction of the provocative times when Freud's breakthrough ideas were really popping. Also the sleek grand thinker Jung was doing sophisticated work innovating psychotherapy also. In my opinion the acting work of Keira Knightley and Michael Fassbender is vigorous and truly compelling. The windows of the mind and the intricate mechanisms of contemporary psychology have always been clever and fascinating to me.

THE FRESHNESS  of the film 'A Dangerous Method' is especially unique. I believe modern films need to convey more of a vigorous interpretation into the inner souls of humans. There is a huge need in this country to have all kinds of more focused artistic and creative experiences and it is a grand essence that happens when we have a sleek conundrum of cinematic directing like what Mr. David Cronenberg dis with fashioning this artful film. The man possesses a terrific amount of style and it pleases me that a tremendous number of thinking, and a bit enigmatic but thinking souls have latched on to this new movie as fine art and something fun to watch from both an emotional as well as an intellectal standpoint.

My Yamaha Keyboard

Lots of big fun playing great jazz and rock on this instrument.

My bizarre elephant art.

The power of the wild elephants helps my art creativity.

A Son's Birthday

Today is special.  If he had lived my youngest son would be celebrating his 38th birthday, today.  He battled the horror and ravages of insanely brutal cancer for 13 months. His cancer started in the esophagus and then spread throughout him. We miss Gary our youngest son.  He was a kind man and a man of intense passion. He loved fine writing...was a writer himself....and also he loved art, movies and music and sports.  Many times we talked over the latest movies and also the classics. Today I went out in our yard and stood there looking at the tree (a memorial) we planted for our youngest son, Gary. He passed away on a rugged Sunday....It was March 13, 2005, the most horrible day I have ever had.. I miss my son Gary and My wife misses him so much also.