Oh, look. There's a new Deerhoof EP on that site, too.

Is it the one with the covers? If it is, they have that EP free at their own website, too.

Any Chicagoistas interested in going to the Touch and Go Records 25th Anniversary Celebration at the 10th Annual Hideout Block Party?

[link]

It's September 8-10, and FAQWife & I are definitely there! I purchased a couple of extra tickets which I'd be happy to give to anyone able to provide us with a bed for the weekend.

Anyone? Bueller? Tina?

I think I'ma gonna have to get me these: [link]

"All the instruments use "new proximity sensor technology, pre-programmed songs [and] interchangeable instrument sounds" to "enable kids to mix and layer music with a simple wave of their hands." Entertainment Weekly played with them at Toy Fair: "While the keyboard is interesting, it's the motion-sensor instrument that responds when you wave your hand over the tubes that floored me. But the best part? The ability to hook your iPod up to them and mix over your favorite songs."

Tom Waits Covers 2

Pop Songs

"Martha" - Tim Buckley. I'm always kind of surprised that Jeff Buckley's fans don't spend more time discovering his Dad, whose voice was just as spectacular. This song is from Tom's first album, which generated lots of covers and probably kept him in kibble for years. Gorgeous and melodic and with one of Tom's big, soaring choruses.

"Ol '55" - Ian Mathews. Again from the first album. Paired with "Martha" as an example of Tom's ability to write the pop song when he's of a mind. (see also: "Downtown Train"). This song was most famously covered by The Eagles, and Dave Alvin does a fine version as well. But like Tim Buckley, Ian's got a magnificent voice and it's always interesting to hear Tom's songs paired with the more conventionally pretty.

[posted as soon as gmail gets right]

Hecubus, sir, thank you for the Tom Waits covers. I have a friend that may explode with joy when he comes to hear Tim Buckley cover 'Martha'.

Anyone? Bueller? Tina?

Absolutely!! I have a queen size futon available as well. Are you or FAQ!wife allergic to the cats? Because I have two. Barring any feline allergies, mi casa es su casa. Oh, also, I have the world's worst shower - just for full disclosure purposes.

My office is moving across town that weekend so I may have some small work obligations - but nothing to keep me away from attending many a good show at the Hideout and hanging out about town.

One other note - I live on the far north side of town (just north of Bryn Mawr and three blocks from the lake if you want to look and/or stalk my general neighborhood) right off the red line. The Hideout isn't really near a train stop so there will be some hoofing/cabbing necessary (I have no auto) all together it's a 30ish minute train ride and then a 10 minute (if even) cab ride or 15 minute fast walk from my place. I wouldn't be offended if you said yes to an offer nearer to the Hideout.

I don't mean to discourage you at all - just wanted to give you all pertinent info.

Shoot me an e-mail. Profile add. is good.

Either way, this is exactly the kick in the ass I need to meet up with other fabulous chicago-istas. Plus Touch and Go!! Very exciting.

Hey, Corwood, Fiery Furnaces today on Fresh Air.

Gracias! I'll give it a listen as soon as I can.