Hey there everyone!
So, James and I have started a new podcast. We’re calling it “The Medford Chronicles”. Podcasts are something we at The Compass have talked about for a while now, and I’m really excited that we’re finally doing it.
The Medford Chronicles is a chance for us to talk about what’s going on in our lives, give some analysis of recent events and share creative stuff that we or friends of ours are working on. In this episode, we give a little bit of our history in different towns, discuss ways to amuse yourself during a power outage, and talk about our impressions of Medford so far.
James and I are definitely interested in feedback, so please leave a comment!
-Paul
Source: SoundCloud / The Compass
Friday Tidbit: Mixtures
The unifying theme for this week’s Friday Tidbit is a bit loosely defined. I’ll describe it as a collision between two creations, producing something wholly different.
1) A fellow by the name of Alan (user name “lazyitis”) created a 8-bit version of The Smiths’ “This Charming Man.” It’s an homage to Super Mario Bros., so while you listen, imagine you’re stomping on some foolish Koopa. Barbarism begins at Mushroom Kingdom.
2) I will never respect The Family Circus. But I will always be thankful for its existence. It has provided years of laughter - only after falling into the hands of depraved individuals. Throw in the charming lads and lasses from Jersey Shore and you’ve got piles of wisdom. I present: Jersey Circus. From the mouths of babes, indeed.
3) You may have seen my comments about Dr. Michael Kiskis, an English professor from Elmira College, in earlier posts. He affected a few of us at The Compass quite deeply. Since I first took a class with him back in January 2007, I thought he looked like Gene Wilder. I’d like to think there was some commonality between the two men. I always thought Wilder was the only good thing to ever be connected with an anti-Semite like Roald Dahl.
4) They Might Be Giants have been around for thirty years. (Coincidentally, this is how long my parents have been married.) Here’s an article talking about how influential they’ve been, both on musicians and individuals. TMBG is part of my holy trinity of musical inspirations. While Barenaked Ladies have shaped my dedication to acoustic guitars and Bruce Springsteen showed me the exhilarating power of rock and roll, They Might Be Giants have most shaped my approach to music as a career. To be interesting, to be true to my vision of my songs - they’ve let me know that it’s okay if I don’t become famous. To constantly strive to create great art is a worthwhile way to spend one’s life.
5) I discovered Marc With A C from that article. Some of his music contains obscenities, but you’re an adult. Enjoy his songs.
-Paul
