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Month: October 2005

Oct142005 by Chris Holmes2 Comments
In Concert: Steve Hackett Acoustic Trio

In Concert: Steve Hackett Acoustic Trio

Music
There are concerts, and then there are live music experiences. Last night I witnessed the latter, as Steve Hackett and his acoustic trio performed at the Keswick Theatre (just north of Philadelphia). For two hours I witnessed a true artist perform his craft. Admittedly, I never really got into Hackett's solo career. Not because it's not good, but mostly because I just never got around to it. I've been a big fan of Genesis for years, but most fans would probably acknowledge that Hackett was criminally underused in that band. But enough about that. I and the missus made the trek down to Keswick Village last night to catch the show. We didn't get to spend any time in the town, but it seems like a nice area. It has a very quaint, small-town feel without seeming too rural or small-town. I...
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Oct42005 by Chris HolmesNo Comments
“Boys Beware,” or The Courtship of Jimmy Barnes

“Boys Beware,” or The Courtship of Jimmy Barnes

Movies
Before the salad days when children and teenagers could look to trusted role models like MTV and professional athletes for guidance on how to behave, there were educational films. School kids were treated to lectures in the popular "talkie" format that showed them how to conduct themselves in all facets of life. So after reading, writing and 'rithmetic, Little Johnny got to learn the do's and don'ts of important areas such as dating, hygiene, good study habits, avoiding the pervasive influence of filthy Communists and, of course, our pal the atom! In retrospect, most of these films appear rather quaint and benign, if not a bit creepy. And then there's 1961's "Boys Beware." In just ten minutes, this Sid Davis Production managed to simultaneously entertain, confuse, and frighten a
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Oct32005 by Chris HolmesNo Comments
Goodbye to CDs (maybe)

Goodbye to CDs (maybe)

Music, Rants
Sales of digital music boomed in the first half of 2005, compared to the same period in 2004. Meanwhile, sales of physical product (CDs, DVDs, etc.) slipped. Many are already hailing this as a sign of things to come. I wouldn't go as far as that, considering that even with the surge, digital music still only accounts for 6% of all music sold legally. Hybrid cars have gained a lot too in the last year, but I wouldn't bet the farm on people giving up their dino-mobiles anytime soon. Still, this does point out two trends in music - one good, one bad. (more…)
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