While my darling daughter, Jackie, anxiously awaits the season premiere of “24” I am delighted to have found a new show that seems to appeal to both me and my husband.
This is a rare thing.We typically suffer through each other’s shows (OK, he watches endless hours of “Law and Order” while I have grown to like “Family Guy”) so when a TV show comes along that captures both of us… well that is a special moment in the Bunt household.
Some shows we have both loved: #1 Hill Street Blues (the best ever! endlessly entertaining, Dennis Franz was outstanding, every character was as interesting as the next, never dull…how we loved this show)
#2 Sopranos (please… need I explain)
#3 House (I liked it and Rod grew to like it)
Okay.. so that’s about it. Until now.Show #4 is Life on Mars, Thursdays 10 PM on ABC.
This is one of those shows that started out in England and we ripped it off and did a US version. The story is about a cop who gets whacked by a car and wakes up in 1973. It is a time travel, cop and robber, surreal type of show and the cool part is the “past” is the year I graduated high school. Sam Tyler, the star, is quite the hottie which is a bonus because I love the show anyway.Sam is trying to figure out why he is back in time. Is he in a coma or perhaps dead? Can he get back to 2008 or is this it? Oh, and every so often there are mix ups in the time… like he picks up a paper and there is a story about G. Bush or a kid has on a shirt with a picture of a current band.
It is really worth checking out.See how your momma lived way back before cell phones, internet and DNA evidence.Part of the fun of the show is watching Sam struggle through 1973 with the knowledge of 2008.There are changes in language and expressions. I actually caught a “blooper” because at one point Sam said something “sucks” and no way would that be okay in 1973.
Oh, and I just found out that this actor Jason O’Mara who plays Sam is from Ireland and is just doing an American accent for the show. That always impresses me.
Other actors on this show include Michael Imperioli (Christopher from Sopranos), Harvey Keitel, and Gretchen Mol.
So the Bunts have another show they agree on. Check it out this Thursday night.
I am in bed right now, where I’ve been for the better part of a week, derailed by pneumonia and bronchitis. Don’t cry for me – I’ve used the opportunity to explore my psyche and some literature.Everyone’s been telling me I would love “Twilight,” the story of mortal Bella and her beautiful blood-drinking boyfriend, Edward. Since the movie debuted in theaters today, it’s the perfect time to review it, no? I finally got up off my high horse and deigned to purchase the obsession-inducing novel online 2 days ago. Official Buntology stylist and longtime friend Jodie Botto offered to lend me the book, but I forgot to take it and thought to myself, “Why do something for free when I can frivolously throw away my money?” I got the book, a 500-page tome, this afternoon in the mail. ($7.98, no shipping charge, from eBay.)
Being hoarse and looking rather vampiric myself, I abstained from the hopping North Adams party scene for a night, and instead “bit” (get it?) into my new book. I finished about 10 minutes ago. Don’t be alarmed by my “inhuman” speed (get it?) – when I have the time and inclination, I can polish off 500 pages in about 4 hours. Which I did.
My eyes are swollen and my lower extremities are atrophied, but as a dutiful Buntology writer, I’m using my last reserves of strength to review the book.
Bella Swan, clumsy and unwittingly gorgeous, moves from her beloved Arizona to her dad’s home in Forks, Washington. Long story. She doesn’t think she’ll like it, because it’s always cloudy and rainy, and she doubts she’ll fit in, but guess what? Not only does she fit in, every boy in school wants a piece. Including pale, perfect Edward, he of the smoldering eyes and crooked smile. First they’re lab partners, then he saves her life a few times, then she finds out he’s a vamp, then they vow to be together forever and ever. What problems could possibly arise from THIS relationship?
This was a good junk-food read. Like a Butterfinger, I devoured it quickly and enjoyed it, but derived nothing truly satisfying from it.
The story was painfully predictable: Why was Edward so mean to Bella at first? Because he’s so attracted to her and they can’t be together. Heard that one before. Uh-oh, his vampire sister doesn’t approve – yawn. What makes her so special, anyway? That she has no sense of self-preservation? Seriously?
I mightn’t have had such a problem with the tried plot if it weren’t for the fact that the words “smoldering” and “chiseled” and “perfect” weren’t used so often. “Smoldering” especially.
I became increasingly aware of how frequently Edward’s eyes were the topic of description. Which is fine, he’s a vamp, and their powerful gaze is often the subject of literary scrutiny. But eyes can only smolder so much before a human – or a reader – either gets pulled in or loses interest. I need more than smoldering eyes and a crooked smile – I need a little more conviction from my vamps. I need to be a little afraid. Sorry, Edward. Not doin’ it for me.
I’ll take alabaster-skinned Spike* any day.
Besides the predictably broody, moody, magazine cover-worthy Edward, Bella’s acceptance and adoration of the whole situation was wholly unbelievable. I also thought Meyer’s treatment of the vampire nature was offensive – the Cullen family doesn’t feed on people, only animals. And throughout the narrative, there is a sense that everyone – the vamps, the humans – find feeding on humans to be reprehensible. The author’s disdain for what we all know to be a vamp’s true nature comes through, and makes the story pitifully shallow. Part of what makes the vampire such a fascinating and enduring character is that sensual, passionate nature and essential desire for blood. Turning a vampire into a shameful, guilty creature is entirely unappetizing (get it?).
I did, however, like Edward’s family – the compassionate Dr. Cullen, who overcomes his bloodlust to care for humans; the elfin-faced Alice, who can see the future (like fashion and stock trends!); and my favorite, big, blond, burly Emmett, who treats Bella in the rough-and-tumble style of a big brother.
Bottom line – I liked the book OK, but I don’t know if I’ll go for the sequel. Meyer’s vampires are meek and indecisive, but not in that complex, I-can’t-drink-your-blood-so-I’ll-have-to-settle-for-hot-sex way. I like my vampires as brooding as the next girl, but what’s the use of superhuman feelings if you can’t channel them into something physical?
Final thoughts: No sex, no feeding on humans? NEXT.
* Spike is the sexy, sarcastic, moody vampire from late-season Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Is he going to kick her ass, make out with her or drink her blood? I don’t know … and I like it! Now THAT’s how a man should treat a lady.
After much anticipation my favorite show will be back on the air in less than a week! Well, not totally back. It is only a two hour teaser really, but I will get to see Jack Bauer back in action..finally. The two hour event is on Sunday, November 23rd at 8:00 on Fox! The real show doesn’t start start until January 11th.
I remember seeing a small preview a long time ago, before the whole writer’s strike issue and it looked crazy good. Tony, a main good guy who was supposed to be dead, wasn’t dead and was a bad guy and C.T.U. the place where everyone worked wasn’t there anymore and all this wildness. Now the preview I am seeing is like Jack in Africa helping African children or something? I am kinda confused because Jack doesn’t care about children except his hot ass daughter (Elisha Cuthbert from Girl Next Door), and how and why is he in Africa? These are questions I need answers to get to the bottom of on November 23rd, and so should you.
Also, I hate when people compare Jack Bauer to Chuck Norris. Chuck Norris is dumb. Yeah I watched Walker Texas Ranger when I was little but it was corny and the fighting was corny. The fighting and killing and torturing that Jack Bauer brings down on terrorists is intense and he could beat the shit out of Chucky. No contest. I just wish Keifer Sutherland didn’t go to jail for getting so many DUI’s ..kinda ruins Jack’s good guy image for me.
You can have whatevaaaa you likeeee… (track 6) with T.I.’s new album that is … Well not whatever, but you get the idea.
I love T.I’s new album, titled “Paper Trail.” I am a fan of rap, but I usually don’t go out and buy a new album; I wait until Alicia makes a mix and then steal it.
When I first popped this baby in, I looked and saw ” Dead and Gone” f. Justin Timberlake , track 16 I believe. I would look at the CD to make sure, but I left it in the other room and don’t feel like getting up. This song is real good, good beat, intense lyrics, all the works. As some of you may know, T.I.’s best friend was killed this past year and his GF had a miscarriage, plus he went to jail. BUMMER. He brings all these things up throughout the album. I got the vibe that he wants to make himself a better man and move on past this gangsta life. Then I heard “Every Chance I Get,” in which he says
Hey I’m so raw / and I’m so rich And you so flawed / niggaz ain’t ’bout shit I’ll take yo’ broad / I can fuck yo’ bitch Know that I’m gon’ ball / every chance I get
Now, I know he wants to make himself a better man…but talking about fuckin other people’s bitches and broads isn’t going to make new friends!
Anyways, another really good song is called ” My Life Your Entertainment” F. Usher. T.I. basically complains about the media and whatnot takin over his life. Hi you’re rich, deal with the paparazzi. Good song though.
The entire album is sweeet and fun to listen to when you go for a little … just roll the windows down and bop ya head. And don’t forget to LIVE YA LIFE AYYY AYYY OOO OOOO! ( see track #5 f/Rihanna)
[Editor’s note: Jackie wrote this drunk at 3:30 a.m. after her roommate’s 21st birthday. You call it alcoholism; I call it dedication. – Alicia]
He’s earnin interest while he’s sleepin, man, now who fucks wit him?
Jack and I recently went on a little bit of a shopping spree, and while on our consumer bender, we stumbled upon Nelly’s new album, “Brass Knuckles.” (We also got T.I.’s new “Paper Trail.” Jackie will allegedly review it this week. Don’t hold your breath.)
“Brass Knuckles” doesn’t deviate from Nelly’s standard formula: Fly beats, big name guest appearances, simple messages. And, as always, it works. Nelly doesn’t get all deep, trying to tell us about all this complex emotional bull. I don’t care about your psyche, Nelly. And he doesn’t care to tell me. He’s still singin’ about sneakers, babes and cash. I like it!
Jack and I are huge fans of “Lie,” featuring Nelly’s crew, the St. Lunatics. In it, Nelly’s chick accuses him of cheating and he denies it pretty believably. With a poppy backbeat. St. Lunatic Kyjuan raps,
Really don’t know her, I seen her on MySpace / Looked at her page, all I seen was my face Her username read “Kyjuan fo’ life” / With videos and pictures, set up so right The only bad thing is she writes me all night / Sayin shit like, “The ‘Tics is so tight” She ends with I love you, that starts the big fight / Baby, I can’t control what she types
The St. Lunatics know how to identify with the social-client generation.On the other hand, in “Self Esteem,” Nelly can’t help but get a lil political:
They say I’m old enough to go to war / But I ain’t old enough to play in the NBA no more Now you tell me, what’s wrong with that? / I pledge allegiance all the way to Iraq But ain’t nobody pledgin to me when I get back / Tell my Uncle Sam he wrong for that
The beat on this song isn’t so great, but it’s interesting to hear Nelly lyrically venture outside parties and relationships.Celeb appearances include Fergie, Snoop Dogg, Ashanti, T.I., and Pharrell. Among many others. Oh yeah, and can’t forget L.L. Cool J. But let’s look at something other than Nelly’s rhymes. Let’s look at … his album jacket.I don’t know where Nelly’s been or what he’s been up to since the last time I bought an album of his (2005’s “Sweat/Suit,” a double disc). But he looks so fine. He is JACKED. Nelly’s always been sexy, especially since he took that Band-Aid off, but I would have dropped $13.99 on the album art alone.
See for yourself.
DAMN.
The only disappointment is “Stepped on My J’z,” in which Nelly revisits the world of footwear with another rap about sneakers. It’s a letdown after 2002’s “Air Force Ones.” … But that’s the worst I can say about the album. Nelly’s forgiven anything with photos like that on the CD jacket. Nelly delivers, as usual. This album is like a sugar fix — you’re down, you’re craving a quick fix to pick you up. He’s like a lollipop. Mmmm. Call me, Nelly.
Listen to: Track 5. Lie f/St Lunatics Track 10. Let It Go Lil Mama f/Pharrell Track 13. Who Fucks Wit Me f/ Avery Storm
NORTHAMPTON – Man Man, a rock band from Philly, came to Western Mass. last night, and of course it was a groovin’ time.
Ange, Alicia, Jacqueline, Tim “T-Ratt” Rattelle, Matt Minski, his lady, Jess, and his friend Zach and myself all made the trip over to the Pearl Street Ballroom in Noho (That’s Northampton, Mass., for you out-of-staters – Alicia). After listening to “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” over and over, Man Man finally came to the stage … in their trademark fashions of white clothes and face paint.
Which reminds me, these kids offered me and Alicia white face paint, which we put on.Critter Crat (I think) came out with a red mask on. Me and Alicia and Ange got an awesome spot all the way up in front of the stage.
The band kicked things off with some songs from Rabbit Habits. They played Easy Eats, which Alicia wanted to hear wicked bad (Uh yeah, it had been my away message on AIM for like a week). They played a long set, mixing it up from songs from all 3 of their albums.
Later on, Pow Pow jumped up playing the drums and the noisemakers with Honus Honus, and I immediately knew… it was Black Mission Goggles!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I then freaked out. (That’s Ivan’s jam.) They played sooo many good songs. At the end they finished off playing Young Einstein on the Beach, Engrish Bwudd, and Poor Jackie (I was off with my SISTER Jackie when the song came on, and I lovingly crooned every verse to her. She really seemed to enjoy it!). I was also pumped to hear Gold Teeth, which was pretty siqqq!!! They did not play one of my faves though,Push the Eagle’s Stomach, but whatevs.
Anyways Honus Honus, while playing Engrish Bwudd, decided to use Ange’s head as a percussion instrument, which was sweet! Haha no … but he did touch her head
I kinda wish I hadn’t been so fucked up on Jim Beam, because I know they played shit from The Man In A Blue Turban With A Face, but I can’t remember which songs exactly they played. There was so much wilin’ out and raging for such an amazing show. It was one of the greatest shows, if not The Greatest, that I’ve ever been to.
When you’re listening to Man Man, you just go wild. If you get a chance to see Man Man, definitely do it. If they do come around near you, let me know so I can also go. If they play near you and you don’t go, then also let me know so I can throw a baseball bat at you.
On Saturday night the girls and I went to a Man Man concert. Man Man? Huh? What the heck is that? I bet that is what a lot of you are thinking. (They are the sickest band ever. – Angela) I was thinking the same thing only two weeks ago. I only agreed to go because the girls peer pressured me, and a bunch of the Westy crew was going. After I bought the ticket I listened to a few of their songs. I really got to learn what they were all about on a long car ride home the other week. Ivan was driving and Angela sat shotgun and for over an hour and a half I was immersed in the sounds of Man Man along with the screaming/singing and dancing coming from the front seats. I wanted to kill myself. I kinda enjoyed it. The band was definitely talented and learning the songs got me pretty excited for the concert.
THE CONCERT: We headed to Pearl Street in Northampton at around 9:00 pm. There was a good amount of people there. I don’t know if like there was a dress code that I didn’t know about but almost everyone was wearing stripes and hoodies.(It’s called the cool hipster casual look.) Stripes or not, everyone seemed really nice and pumped up for the show. When the concert started everyone made their way up through the crowds and mashed themselves into the front moshing area. I however knew right away this was not where I wanted to be. I would rather be on the sidelines takin it allll in. (I was raging in the front with Alicia and Ivan.)(And at one point i had white war paint on, like the band members, but in the hot sweaty clusterfuck it rubbed off. Probably for the best. – Alicia) Plus who else would get vids and pics for buntology? Buntology always comes first in my book!
An hour into the show Alicia’s drunken self came stumbling out of the mosh. She was a sight to
be seen! Drenched in sweat, covered in bruises, barely standing… Wow I was so glad I wasn’t stuck in that clusterfuck of a moshpit. I didn’t get to see much more of the concert after that because my job then consisted of holding Alicia up, finding and feeding her water, and dressing her wounds. (Hahahaha.) (Listen, it was fine, I was fine. I got a little beaten up, but like for me, that was very hardcore. Ange and Ivan said it wasn’t even a real mosh!)
After she got herself together…well somewhat together, we hung around the merchandise area. We made a new friend. Mark. Mark the tall boy from Amish land Virgina. I think? He was a nice guy, we plugged Buntology for a little while with him. (You scarred him for life.)(We did NOT scar him for life; as Jackie was hauling me outside, he called for me by NAME. Like, “Alicia, where are you going?” I think he may have been enticed by my fresh good looks. See picture at right.) The concert ended and Angela came running outside screaming about meeting the main singer or something. (Uhh, he touched my cheek during a song and he hugged me and thanked me for singing along!) (So jealous. Honus Honus stroked Angela’s cheek! The only thing of mine that got stroked was my head, with Jackie’s palm. And by stroked I mean smacked.) I was like texting and ready to leave at that point so who knows.
Looking back on the concert now I give the “Man Man” a thumbs up and maybe a 3.7 out of 5. (Dude, why did we have Jackie write this review? She doesn’t even like the band!)( Judge for yourself, readers: For your enjoyment … MAN MAN!! (Honus Honus is the dark-haired gentleman bobbin his head in the front. He’s the one who caressed Ange.) I don’t know what that scale represents really but I just wanna throw some numbers out at ya. If you are looking to rage it out and dance around like a sweaty mongrel go see Man Man! (Well, I guess that’s true.)
