The Saw Is Family

Texas Monthly and Alamo Drafthouse had a series of Rolling Roadshows this summer to celebrate the greatest films from Texas. I had the privilege of seeing the screening of TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE in Kingsland, TX where the house is located. As some of you know, the house that belonged to Leatherface in the film was originally located in Round Rock, TX where La Frontera shopping center currently stands. Several years ago, the house was sold and moved to Kingsland then turned into a restaurant.

This special event might be the holy mecca of pilgrimages for horror fans. TCM is undoubtedly one of the greatest horror films of all time; it's definitely in my Top 3. Many people to this day still believe TCM is a true story; it is to some degree. Famous serial killer Ed Gein offered some inspiration for the plot of TCM, but the screenplay was the work of Kim Henkel and Tobe Hooper. All the sequels and remakes fail to convey the same terrifying feelings as that original film from 1974. I first watched TCM when I was a kid and I was completely blown away by how relenting & merciless the film came across. It was very unsettling and probably the source of my unnatural fear & repulsion of hillbillies. With such a small budget, relatively unknown cast, and iconic setting, no film will ever recreate this incredible formula.

I had actually visited the house in Kingsland 3 yrs ago and got to spend the weekend at the neighboring hotel. I had dinner in the house/restaurant (menu mostly consisted of Cajun food) and the theme was mostly wholesome country. There was no film memorabilia displayed anywhere. The house looked virtually the same without the animal carcasses. The door that Leatherface lunged from was now the kitchen and the attic where grandpa stayed was now a bar. The bar was actually really cool, it had a stylish 1920s vibe. The bar bathroom held the only indication that Leatherface once lived there with a movie poster hanging on the wall.

Aside from the sweltering June heat, I could not ask for a more memorable experience. As a last minute surprise, it was announced that some of the cast and crew would be in attendance for the screening. Marilyn Burns, Kim Henkel, Allen Danziger, and Edwin Neal all were gracious enough to answer questions and share various stories. There was also a headcheese eating contest that seriously made me nauseous. Just googling headcheese made me nauseous! After the Q & A, we were all invited to take a tour of the house. It seems as though the current owners picked up on the interest in the home/film and decided to profit from it. Now there is TCM memorabilia everywhere which kind of gives off a Universal Studios feel. The upstairs bar is now host to someone's cheesy Star Wars collection. In my opinion, the new additions to the home kind of cheapen the feel this mysterious house once had. I had a wonderful time nonetheless.


Special thanks to Derek & Michelle for making the jaunt with us and for sharing their bug spray. Also, thanks to the Alamo Drafthouse for making a little girl's wild dreams come true.

Don't Talk!

I spend a ridiculous amount of time in a movie theater, probably more than the average person so this experience is something I take very seriously and personal. Most of you have by now heard of the Alamo Drafthouse patron who was kicked out for texting during a film. In light of recent events, let’s reflect on the average movie going experience.

I lived in a small town prior to coming to Austin so my theater selection was very grim. I had a choice of going to Tinseltown or the Mall. Of course there was never anything of interest showing at those theaters either unless you’re a fan of M Night Shyamalan or other mainstream crap.

Since moving to Austin twelve years ago, my movie experience has improved drastically as a direct result of The Alamo Drafthouse. My mind was blown the moment I set foot into the original location off 4th & Colorado St. Finally a place where I belonged! I couldn't believe you could watch a movie, eat food, and drink beer at the same time.

Those first couple of years I became obsessed with The Alamo! I went to all the Music Mondays, Weird Wednesdays, and Mr. Sinus shows I could. I have nothing but great memories from the Original Alamo. During SXSW one year, I got to meet acclaimed director Penelope Spheeris. Pauly Shore once sat next to me at his own film and proceeded to laugh at his own jokes. I held on to the barf bag I received during my 1st Fulci Fest. I felt like I had reached the Promised Land! It only got better with the opening of more theaters around town. I got to shed some tears with an entire theater of Buffy fans during the screening of the final episode at LakeCreek. I also indulged in some spirits during a screening of PASSION OF THE CHRIST at The Village. Then it came time for the original location to expand. As a former long time patron of The Ritz bar, I can’t think of a better occupant than The Alamo for such a sacred site. Since moving into the Ritz, The Alamo has continued to set the standard for the movie going experience. Like when we went to the Justin Timberlake sing-along for my birthday one year and Chad danced the “Sexy Back” on stage, or the CADDYSHACK quote-along with actual explosions, and how could we forget the MONSTER SQUAD screening with cast & crew. My only regret is that I was not in attendance for the secret screening of INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS during BNAT when they decorated the theater with Nazi flags like in the film.

I go to the Alamo because people are well behaved and the service is remarkable. I do not go to regular theaters anymore because frankly I do not want to pay $10 to be surrounded by neanderthals and/or children. I am just utterly disgusted by people who talk/text during films. I would consider myself a pretty compassionate person, but anyone who commits this sin should suffer at the hands of the Khmer Rouge. For me, the movie experience is sacred and special. It’s my time to escape the world and get lost in something enlightening. The theater is my refuge which is why I often prefer going to movies alone. Now when someone fucks with that experience I get REAL pissed! This is why I am so grateful for The Alamo because that behavior is not tolerated there. I commend them for standing ground and making an example of this injustice. When I went to a recent Music Monday, I got to hear the now infamous PSA and the whole theater erupted in applause.
A few years ago I used to always talk about moving from Austin to a bigger city. However, I could never survive without The Alamo. As much as those places may be hipper or not as sweltering, they do not have The Alamo. It would be like spending years in First Class and having to go back to Coach. I will NOT do it! I will forever remain loyal to The Alamo and grateful for all the wonderful experiences I have had at their theaters. People believe that Los Angeles or New York is where you should be if you want to be involved with the film industry; they may be right. If you consider yourself a film fan, then Austin is the place to be. Places like Alamo Drafthouse, I Luv Video, and Vulcan Video cater to cinema enthusiasts. Events like Fantastic Fest, BNAT, Austin Film Fest, and SXSW keep Austin on the map in the film world. I personally could not think of a better place to be. I’m glad our “crappy ass little theater” has caused quit the stir. Magnited I stand!

Guest Blogger: Spike

My mom has been pretty busy with other projects so I thought I’d take this time to tell you a little about myself. My name is Spike and I came into this world on September 19, 2004. My mom was still mourning the loss of her favorite show, "Buffy The Vampire Slayer," so that's where my name came from (she wasn't intentionally being unoriginal). I was born in San Antonio, TX. Mom essentially rescued me since my brother and I were in a litter of duds. Not only were we duds, but we were also runts and no one wanted us. My aunt took my brother Pico and Mom took me. Mom has always loved dogs and was waiting for the right time to have her own. Even though I was a surprise, my Mom still loves me unconditionally so I’ve got that going for me which is nice. Much like mom, I do NOT like cats or children. I do like to play fetch until you get tired and I'm great at cuddling. I have often been called "The Love Burglar." I like to listen to Boys II Men and watch The Big Bang Theory. I also enjoy running up and down the stairs repeatedly. I would not consider myself a morning person.

In the beginning, we moved around a lot. We have been in our current home for a few years and I have to say it’s a great place to live. Our neighborhood is very dog friendly so I’ve come to know most of the other pooches around. We go on walks a lot; my favorite thing to do is chase deer and squirrels.

Sometimes Mom will take me to the dog trail in Turkey Creek. It’s a three mile hike in the woods and it’s a ton of fun. We used to go to Bull Creek Dog Park all the time, but unfortunately the park is no longer leash free. We’re always looking for new parks to explore so if you know of any, let us know. I like to keep a close eye on the neighborhood too, you never know who's lucking out there.


My brother Pico AKA Pito is kind of lazy. He spends a lot of time sleeping and eating cheeseburgers. I guess we kind of look alike, only he’s dark brown and I’m light brown. My ears point up and his flop forward. Unlike me, Pito is allowed to eat table food which has resulted in pancreatitis. Pito is also notorious for digging in the trash.

I also have a cousin named Snoopy; my grandma is a big fan of Peanuts which explains his name. Snoopy is a mostly black Papillion who loves to be brushed and go for walks. Snoopy is also really funny. Sometimes I get jealous because Mom loves to play with Snoopy. I wish I could spend more time with my cousin and brother because I love to visit them in San Antonio. I love visiting friends and family but I do not like riding in the car.

I have a cousin who is of the feline persuasion that resides in Houston, TX. His name is Carlo; he's OK in my book considering my aversion to cats. Speaking of cats, there's a really crazy lady in our neighborhood that walks her ridiculous cat on a leash. Isn't that weird? I do have other cousins in AZ and DC that I hope to visit soon. You know with gas prices these days, it's hard to tell when that will happen.


Aside from my friends in the neighborhood, I have a few other friends I like to visit on occasion. My friend Ghostface Miller is an English bulldog I’ve become quite fond of. He’s big and drools a whole bunch, kind of like Glen ‘Big Baby’ Davis. He’s pretty lovable nonetheless.


Recently, Mom and I got to check out the K9 Karnival at Hyde Park High School. The Karnival was awesome; there were so many dogs for me to sniff! There was a puppy kissing booth, an obstacle course, games, treats, and face painting. I actually saw a Scottish terrier with purple eyebrows! We're really lucky to live in a place that's very dog friendly because there's always cool events going on in Austin. Now that it's getting hotter out, I usually spend my days lounging on the sofa. I'm not a big fan of sweating and my tiny paws get burned from the cement if I'm outside too long. We do have a special vacation coming up that I will keep you posted about. I hope I have engaged you enough for one post; my paws are getting tired. Mom will be back shortly with her own musings on cinema and music. Thank you!

Take A Stand

Well, in lieu of recent events at the Cannes Film Festival I thought I'd share my insight on the controversy.

I generally try to keep up with films, screenings, events, and what not at the festival. Honestly, I dream of one day attending Cannes myself. I like to get a feel of what films to look for and which ones to avoid based on various reviews. This year, there has been much buzz about Terence Malick's TREE OF LIFE and Lars Von Trier's MELANCHOLIA. Even Eli Roth compared the two to Billy Mitchell & Steve Wiebe from KING OF KONG. I indeed look forward to watching both films. In the last couple years, Von Trier has slowly crept into my Top Favorite Directors list. After getting swept away by ANTICHRIST, I believe his vision cannot be matched.


It appears that Lars Von Trier is now banned from the Cannes film festival. While doing a Q & A for MELANCHOLIA, Von Trier made a couple jokes about Nazis. Nazis aren't necessarily something you joke about, but it's also no reason to completely eradicate someone. I don't agree with any of his statements, but I think the jury and press are being way too harsh on Von Trier. MELANCHOLIA is still allowed to compete for the coveted Palme d'Or, but Von Trier is not allowed to accept if it wins.


Let's address the real issue here: censorship! Why is it that every other artistic community is able to express themselves as they please except for cinema? Painters, singers, musicians, and photographers have the freedom and creative control to portray their ideas however they choose. Film has got to be the most draconian artistic outlet. How often do you hear about certain films bouncing back and forth between filmmakers and the MPAA over censorship? We end up with multiple versions of a particular film: special edition, alternate ending, unrated, director's cut! Is all this necessary? Of course part of it is a marketing ploy, but when I watch a film, I want to want it in its entirety. I want to watch it the way it was intended, not spliced and butchered. Some people watch movies to escape their mundane lives. I watch films to be challenged, scared, and enlightened. I want to be taken somewhere I've never been and see things I have never seen or thought. This is why I respect and champion filmmakers who have the courage to continuously push the envelope.

How about Roman Polanski? Another one of my favorite directors that I will defend to the death. Here's a man who is celebrated in France, but in the US he's a fugitive. Don't get me started on his bogus trial/judge in Los Angeles because that was an insult to the justice system. I mean the man gave us CHINATOWN and he is still not allowed on American soil. I applaud him for managing to complete THE GHOST WRITER while incarcerated.


Then there's the trial in Spain accusing the director of Sitges Film Festival of screening child pornography. This is a man who is not even related to the film A SERBIAN FILM, but merely screened it for an audience of willing adults. Just for the record, the film is far from anything child pornographic. This film is not just torture porn, it's a testament about the desperation certain countries endure. It's not a life changing film, but it's one person's art and it deserves respect. We as an audience deserve the chance to make our own assumptions about it.

If you may remember, Von Trier caused much controversy two years ago with ANTICHRIST. This was a film he made while in a severe pit of depression and this film was his way of coping. People were so disturbed by the film that half the audience walked out. This whole uproar only enhanced my longing to see the film! Von Trier was accused of being a misogynist as a result of the film. I completely disagree; he examined the darkest realms of a woman's psyche the best he knew how to. The outcome was a beautifully disturbing piece of art. People asked him how he could create something so demoralizing and his only reply was that he made films for himself and no one else. I can't think of a more narcissistic response but there is truth in it.


I don't believe for a second that Von Trier is a Nazi or racist; he's only guilty of being eccentric. So what if he declared himself the "best director in the world." At least he has the balls to argue that. Von Trier enjoys being the antagonist and arousing people. I do however believe Ridley Scott is racist, after all he did make fun of an African woman's breasts. Yet no one has banned him for any film festivals or the very least ban him from creating anymore shitty remakes. And let's not start comparing Lars to Mel Gibson. At least Von Trier still has some talent left and has yet to make a film about beavers. If anything this whole saga will only create more press for MELANCHOLIA which I have been anticipating for several months now.

There's a select few filmmakers in this world that make art and not just movies. Many people (especially in the US) make films just for profit. Honestly, where is the art in shit like SAW 9 , BRIDESMAIDS, and THE FASTEST & FURRIEST 5? Though, this is the crap that's continuously pumped out in America. Why are people like Zack Snyder and Michael Bay still employed? Let's start censoring the real enemies like Palin, Sheen, Beck, Kobe, and Jersey Shore. These are the real poisons in the world not the Polanskis, Von Triers, Tarantinos, and David Lynches.


I appreciate the fact that I live in a city that celebrates Independent Film. I realize if I lived in Smalltown, USA, I would not be able to enjoy most of the films I watch. I try to do my best to support Independent Film (RIP Dobie) and so should you. Also, if you liken me to a film snob, then you're absolutely right. If you have an aversion to that, then you can think of me the next time you watch DUDE WHERE'S MY CAR.

Soundtracks

Thanks to The Alamo Drafthouse’s Music Monday, I recently got to revisit VELVET GOLDMINE. I absolutely love this film. I have always loved the decadence that is the unauthorized tale of David Bowie & Iggy Pop. Also, how often do you get to see Obi Wan Kenobi get it on with Batman? I got to thinking about how great this soundtrack is. Obviously they couldn't’t use actual music by Bowie or Iggy for fear of lawsuits. Some great musicians came together and wrote original songs for this film including Thom Yorke, Shudder To Think, and Pulp. I especially love Placebo’s cover of T-Rex’s “20Th Century Boy.” If you get a chance, check out this soundtrack and also check out Music Monday at Alamo Ritz. Every Monday they show music films/documentaries for only $2.

After my epiphany, I began to think about other film soundtracks that are awesome. So what do you know, I came up with another list! Here goes:

PURPLE RAIN
Who doesn't love Prince? The first time I watched PURPLE RAIN, I was definitely preschool age and probably should not have been watching it. The first sex scene I ever saw was between Prince & Apollonia. I kinda wanted to be like her (still do)! The 1980s spawned a weird influx of musicians turned actors (Madonna, Gene Simmons, Bowie), but PURPLE RAIN is the best. I was fortunate enough to see Prince when he did the big comeback in 2004; I have to say that was the best concert I have ever been to. This soundtrack is filled with hit after hit. Many people have tried to capture the same magic that PURPLE RAIN created since, including Prince himself. Does anyone remember UNDER THE CHERRY MOON & GRAFFITI BRIDGE?

ROCKY IV
I recently confessed that the first villain I sympathised with was Ivan Drago from ROCKY IV. ROCKY IV is responsible for one of the most important elements in film: the montage. Now this is how you do a motherfucking montage! From the training scene to the build up for the Apollo fight, these scenes would never be as memorable without these great songs. Make no secret, I often listen to this soundtrack at the gym.

VALLEY GIRL
Hands down, best falling in love montage is in VALLEY GIRL with Modern English "Melt With You." Call me sentimental but I have a special place in my heart for 80s teen flicks. I am guilty of dreaming about Lloyd Dobler standing outside my window with a boom box. However, although he is a complete lunatic now, it's almost impossible not to swoon over Nic Cage when he takes Julie to see The Plimsouls.

ALMOST FAMOUS
I have never been a huge fan of 1970s rock with the exception of The Stones. I have never been into Zeppelin or Cat Stevens but their song choices for this film are so spot on. It's really hard not to get teary eyed when Stevie Wonder sings "My Cherie Amour" when Penny nearly overdoses. "Tangerine" and "Tiny Dancer" are definite highlights.

LOST IN TRANSLATION
Kevin Shields composed a lot of stuff for this film and you can't go wrong with My Bloody Valentine. Sofia Coppola is famous for her use of songs by Air and several other now hipster bands like Phoenix. I've said before that the scene with Bill Murray karaoke-ing "What's So Funny (Bout Peace, Love, & Understanding)" is one of my all time favorite scenes. This is also the first film we see the use of Peaches' "Fuck The Pain Away." The Piece De Resistance of the film is the final scene with one of the most beautiful songs by JAMC.

Lost in Translation - Sometimes from sam on Vimeo.

I used to be of the impression that soundtracks are pretty lame but now that I think of it, many films are strengthened by their soundtracks. Other honorable mentions include: THE LOST BOYS, STAND BY ME, DESERT BLUE, THE KARATE KID, SAY ANYTHING, and CASINO.

Truly Underrated

Do you ever watch those music video countdowns on VH1? You know the ones that discuss the best One Hit Wonders or Best Metal Songs, usually hosted by Mark McGrath or Carmen Electra. I always wondered what the criteria was to be a part of those shows. Most of the time it's out of work C list actors or comedians. Do we really need Juliette Lewis reminiscing about how she made out to Def Leopard’s “Photograph” one summer. I’ll admit, those countdowns are slightly entertaining which is why I will bore you with my own. Don’t worry; it won’t be five hours long.

So the other day, my dear friend Kenneth and I were enjoying our usual Sunday brunch date. We observed a young couple necking in the parking lot while a particular Eagles song played in the restaurant. Quit an interesting visual to behold. We started discussing the fact that a certain caliber of youngsters, enjoys a lot of easy listening music with such irony. Case in point: the current revival of Hall & Oats or Journey. It's often troublesome for people like me who genuinely celebrate this music. I'll be damned if they try to take Rick Springfield from me! Honestly, I feel like these artists were never given the respect and accolades they truly deserve.

Today I want to talk about songs that fall into this category.
I present you with my Top 5 Most Underrated Songs of All Time:

Flock of Seagulls- Space Age Love Song
Kenneth and I have endless discussions about how amazing this song is; we have also danced to it countless times at Elysium. It might be one of the best love songs ever. Flock of Seagulls is one of those bands from the 80s that always get lumped into the “One Hit Wonder” category because of the song “I Ran.” That song was their only major hit, but they had an extensive catalog that went beyond that. If you get a chance, check out the No Motiv cover as well.


Don Henley- The End of the Innocence
Singing drummers are a strange phenomenon. Don Henley (like most drummers) is often overlooked when it comes to credible singer songwriters. I’m not saying he’s some prolific artist, but he is the best thing to come from The Eagles. Henley is an interesting character to say the least. He’s an avid environmentalist with a great sense of humor (there’s a funny story about him & Mojo Nixon). I’m also a little fascinated by Don Henley because he dated Stevie Nicks for several years. I respect anyone who can tame The White Witch for so long. I have no sentimental attachment or event that correlates with “The End of the Innocence,” it’s just a great song and extremely underrated. I actually enjoy his solo career much more than The Eagles. “All She Wants to do is Dance” is another great tune.

Joe Jackson- Steppin' Out
Let me start by saying, I am not a Joe Jackson fan by any means (no offense). I have always felt like he was the poor man’s Elvis Costello. Maybe I just haven’t dug through his catalog extensively enough. Back in my party girl days, I regularly frequented Whiskey Bar on Thursday nights. “Steppin’ Out” was always the song they played for last call. This song reminds me of dancing the night away after several pints of beer at The Ritz. Lately, I have heard it played at a few restaurants and it still makes me smile.

Toad the Wet Sprocket- All I Want
Most people who really like this band will not admit to liking this band. I have nothing against Toad the Wet Sprocket, but I also don’t own any of their albums. I always wonder who are the people go to their shows at Antones. I do have a special place in my heart for early 90s alterna-rock in the spirit of Toad The Wet Sprocket, Gin Blossoms, and Soul Asylum. You can clearly see a major Replacements influence in much of their music. This is such a great song.


Duran Duran- Come Undone
I grew up listening to Duran Duran. I also grew up with a boy crazy older sister who had pictures of Simon Le Bon & John Taylor plastered on the wall. I love all the classics like "Notorious", "Girls on Film", "Ordinary World", and "Wild Boys." As far as I knew, Duran Duran were a very tongue in cheek pseudo boy band until, "Come Undone." That was when I started taking them seriously. By the way, John Taylor is still looking good these days.


What songs do you think are underrated?

Shame on You

Well another SXSW has come and gone faster than you can say, "badges only." After much reflection on this year's events, I'm left perplexed. I am beginning to think that maybe SXSW has outgrown Austin. Why you ask? Because I've seen more bad behavior this year than any other. It's embarrassing to see grown adults behave so poorly. Let's discuss some of these events.


Last Saturday, my dear friend Kenneth ventured east of downtown to meet some people. His outing was completely unrelated to SXSW, just a usual Saturday night. Before reaching his destination, he decided to grab a bite to eat from the #19 Bus(the big red double decker) located on the corner of 6Th and San Marcos in the East Side Drive-In. He noticed a lot of commotion going on behind the window yet proceeded to order a hamburger. The very rude woman at the window was a bit snippy with him. Kenneth noticed they were out of hamburger buns and in substitution decided to use flattened cheese steak rolls instead. He inquired about the buns in anticipation of ordering a different item. At this time, the woman would not even address Kenneth directly. He then overheard her snarl, "That out of towner doesn't want a burger!" This was a slap in the face for someone who's lived in Austin since the Clinton Administration and regularly supports local businesses. I'm sure the proprietors were probably overwhelmed and frustrated with the crowd, but who talks to people like that? Obviously, they were short on ingredients and probably understaffed, yet it is no excuse to be rude to anyone (local or tourist)! What kind of message does that send to visitors?

And where does this "locals only" attitude I've seen lately come from? What is this BLUE CRUSH? I have personally lived in Austin for twelve years now. the first year I attended SXSW I was a visitor. I absolutely fell in love with the city because of it's laid back vibe. I felt comfortable being myself and I especially enjoyed all the friendly faces I met. I still feel that way for the most part. Austin has inspired me to be a more creative, open minded, and compassionate person. True born & bred Austinites are as rare as that damn white squirrel on UT campus. So let's remember that we were all "out of towners" at one point or another.


SXSW may be inconvenient for some people, but it is easily avoidable. It's not some new event that just started. This has been going on for twenty-five years which is a lot longer than #19 Bus has been around. Bars and restaurants should know by now what to expect during SXSW. I myself realize that many places increase the price of food & drinks, but it's a small sacrifice for all the cool shows we get to see throughout the week. Most establishments are welcoming and pleased with the influx of visitors because it boosts business. SXSW is like Black Friday for most places in the downtown area. Businesses often make more money during one week of SXSW than all year! It is the bread and butter of Austin's economy and we need to be respectful of the people kindly spending their money here. I'm not saying every visitor is a perfect angel or great tipper, but let's try to be a little more hospitable. If I wanted to live among pretentious jerks I'd move to New York!

Our friend Bonnie also relayed a story to us about rude behavior at Swan Dive/Barbarella during SXSW. She arrived early at the venue for a showcase that was being sponsored by Sailor Jerry's rum. Several bottles of rum sat on the bar while the bartender prepared to setup. She noticed a patron swipe a bottle and immediately informed the bartender of the shenanigans. The bartender just scoffed at Bonnie then walked away. This was not her first run-in with said bartender. It used to be that you would only get bad attitudes at Star Seeds Cafe. However, it seems this apathetic disposition has infected the town.

Locals were not the only ones misbehaving this year. Let's talk about how Ben Weasel totally pulled a Mel Gibson. By now, most of you have seen the video of the events that took place at the Fat Wreck Showcase. It's horrific that he assaulted not one but two women in one night. What's more upsetting is that he picked a fight with someone who stood up to his antagonistic misogyny, something Screeching Weasel might have preached about 20yrs ago. Don't get me wrong, I remain an avid Screeching Weasel fan, but a fan of Ben Weasel I am not. I saw them a couple years ago at Emos for the big reunion and the performance was great, but it's no secret Ben Weasel is known for being an asshole. He is the patron saint of cynicism, but isn't that why we like his songs? At least liked his songs! I personally haven't been interested in anything since How To Make Enemies and Irritate People (no pun intended). So Ben Weasel spends an entire set dissing SXSW and "corporate stiffs," like no one has ever done that before. Seriously, if you don't want to play a "shameful excuse for a music event" then fucking don't, simple as that. Don't come to town complaining about only getting $250 & a "disgusting green room" as opposed to San Antonio who guaranteed you $25,000. You're lucky people still give a shit about Screeching Weasel! A man in his 40s with a wife and children has no business throwing a temper tantrum like that.

PS- Your half ass apology is not sufficient and the new album sucks ass.
UPDATE- Apparently, Screeching Weasel (the band) has up and quit on Ben Weasel (the jerk) as a result of his stupidity.

As soon as I heard about the Death From Above 1979 secret reunion show, I just knew shit was gonna hit the fan. There was no way Beauty Bar would be able to handle that madness, and of course a fucking riot of hipsters broke out. What's funny is that I do not remember that many people liking Death From Above while they were still around, as when they broke up. Their lifespan was very short lived with only one album released. I'm quit impartial to them, but I could care even less about MSTRKRFT which I suspect is the real reason for all the attention. My only interest in that show was to see hundreds of grown ass men weeping like the second coming, or some shit. I'm sure by Saturday most people were so delirious and drunk they hadn't considered the consequences of dismantling an entire fence. Yes, the cops WILL show up and fucking tazzer/mace your dumb ass! Was it worth it?


Initially, I had no real intention of attending SXSW this year because there really wasn't any artist I wanted to see until I heard OMD was playing. To be perfectly honest, OMD brings out the spell caster in me! I knew I wouldn't be able to catch them at Stubbs with Duran Duran so fortunately I found out about a free show at Mellow Johnny's. Good thing I missed the Stubbs set because a camera boom fell on the crowd crushing five people. A photographer continued to take pictures of the victims in a pool of blood on the ground until the fuzz forcibly removed him. Where is the humanity?


In all the years I have attended SXSW (going on 12yrs), I have never heard of anything like the events that took place this time around. How can these situations be averted? I just hope we as a community can take the next twelve months to reflect on our behavior and ensure that next year's event is much more pleasant.


Finally, I'd like everyone to consider what it would be like if Texas Relay Weekend was a week long event. Wrap your head around that.