National Poetry Month

Almost Blue

Chet Baker, 1929-1988

It's so much better when you don't want:
nothing falls then, nothing lost

but sleep and who wanted that
in the pearl this suspended world is,

in the warm suspension and glaze
of this song everything stays up

almost forever in the long
glide sung into the vein,

one note held almost impossibly
almost blue and the lyric takes so long

to open,


My Alexandria : poems / by Mark Doty

Record Store Day Reminder

Record Store Day | April 18th | 2015 | The Last Record Store

April 18th is Record Store Day—be there or be square. This year has plenty of treasures to seek. For the complete list click here. 

Hopefully X marks the spot and Neko Case's, Fox Confessor Brings the Flood, along with, Built to Spill's new album, Untethered Moon, will be added to my collection. The crown jewel this year is, Get Behind Me Satan, The White Stripes first commercial release for this album on wax. Your turn table is not dead. We'll see you at the Last Record Store. 

Happy hunting,
eightychoices.

National Poetry Month

Harlem

[Dream Deferred]

What happens to a dream deferred?

Does it dry up

like a raisin in the sun?

Or fester like a sore—

And then run?

Does it stink like rotten Meat?

Or crust and sugar over 

like a syrupy sweet?

Maybe it just sags

like a heavy load.

Or does it explode?

Langston Hughes
(1902-1967)



National Poetry Month

American Epic

American music is an art form, and perhaps, our greatest contribution to culture. Creativity has always been the most beautiful mark left on any era. A partnership between PBS and the BBC will spotlight the history of America's rich harmonic landscape. Producers of this three-part documentary have replicated the machinery used in the 1920's—the same equipment that captured the bedrock sounds that would later deliver us into rock n roll, pop, R&B, and hip hop. This project marks the first time in nearly 80 years that recording artists will have the opportunity to work with such primitive technologies. The list of contemporary musicians involved is staggering. Third Man Records is reportedly releasing a vinyl box set as well. Both the film and the music are set for release this fall. The teaser below is enough to pique my interest. Enjoy.

American Epic



eightychoices.

PUBlication: Grapefruit Sculpin

Ballast Point Brewing Co. | Grapefruit Sculpin | IPA

San Diego, aka San Dog, is a wonderful city with a long term weather forecast that makes the rest of the country jealous. By virtue of being so geographically blessed, the residents of San Dog brew some of the best beer in America. Ballast Point is a pillar among the plethora of top-notch breweries—go ahead and try to visit every brewpub within the city limits in a weekend, I dare you. 

One of their year round jewels is Sculpin, a five-stage hopped IPA that has won awards, and more importantly, inspires one to love craft beer. Rounding out at 7% ABV, this tasty adult beverage is worthy of inquiry. Ballast Point also brews a Grapefruit Sculpin, which quite frankly, is ridiculous. Grapefruit Sculpin is one of the best beers out of the bottle. The lush citrus communicates perfectly with the bouquet of hops. It's not too sweet, it's not to bitter, it's just perfect. There's also a Habanero Sculpin, for those that want some heat, it doubles as an amazing base for soups and chili's. I recommend having a supply of this fascinating ale.

Nice weather helps to conjure up the hankering for a good beer. I suggest Grapefruit Sculpin, maybe it will make its way into your fridge. Drink Responsibly. 

Cheers,

eightychoices.

April Fool's Parade

April Fool's Day Parade | Occidental | April 4th

Occidental is a sleepy little town nestled amidst redwoods along the Bohemian Highway. This same idyllic hideaway also knows how to get funky. On Saturday, April 4th, the 10th annual April Fool's Day Parade takes place—a truly one-of-a-kind event. Get silly with a community that is both unique and artistic. Show up before noon and take part in the all-inclusive parade beginning at 1pm. There will be plenty of cold libations and tasty grilled food. Remember to act and dress like a fool, at least for one day. 

eightychoices.