tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86047212024-03-12T19:51:17.060-04:00All Along the BlogtowerMusic, life and everything in betweenFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.comBlogger116125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-90736248072315306152008-05-26T23:03:00.001-04:002008-05-26T23:05:09.607-04:00postscript...Time - 38:13<br /><br />Pace - 9:33<br /><br />Doing it again!<br /><br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-83721577601596711632008-05-25T23:43:00.003-04:002008-05-26T00:10:04.476-04:00T Minus 9 Hoursto <span style="font-style: italic;">Life Goal</span>.<br /><br />So in just about 9 hours I will be stepping up to the starting line to run a 4 mile race. I've always wanted to do one of these, however my dislike of running has kept me away from it. So tomorrow I cross another <span style="font-style: italic;">Life Goal</span> off the list when I cross the finish line. Ok - well "IF" I cross the line. I have little doubt I will finish and I'll have some support from a friend whom has been key in getting my running game up. Nothing like some friendly competition.<br /><br />So in other good news - I'll be going back to school in the Fall on a scholarship to get my MSW from Hunter College. I'm one of 25 people to be selected for it, so I'm pretty happy about it. Although the idea of entering a classroom again, is a bit overwhelming. I'm also getting a promotion at work, to a position that is being created for me. So chalk that up to the good things category as well.<br /><br />I've also been spending more quality time on the guitar, but away from the DJ decks. Which has some amazing pluses and minuses. The idea will eventually be an EP or possibly a full album of original tracks. Not to sell or promote, since it won't be making it to anywhere except the ears of a few great, supportive, tolerant and tone deaf friends.<br /><br />I realized this blog has become all but dead. Obviously my own fault. Chalk it up to time and effort. I mean even my regular website hasn't been updated in years, and that can actually make me money. So as things come and go here - I will leave you with the fact that this blog will have an end. For many reasons. Lack of motivation, confidentiality and overall inability to keep this together. Those of you that care about this - will get to know what happens next. Those that don't, and find this through a Google search - will be left behind.<br /><br />Essential New Music for 2008 - Vampire Weekend, Schocholautte, Nine Inch Nails, Goldfrapp, Counting Crows. All bands that I have, will and plan on seeing in 2008.Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-28732149454781726622008-02-19T23:43:00.002-05:002008-02-20T00:27:18.201-05:00and on and onTypically I have avoided long diatribes about random topics here. It has all been loosely based around music, if nothing more than the title of the post. So I've promised many times to give a round up of music that I've liked over the past year. Now I'm not going to go nuts about each one. But here's the short and the long of it all. In no order - all about the album released in 2007.<br /><br />Scouting For Girls<br />Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings<br />KT Tunstall<br />Alicia Keys<br />Nine Inch Nails<br />Eddie Vedder<br />Kanye West<br />Timbaland<br />Blake Lewis<br />Klaxons<br />Radiohead<br />Mark Ronson<br />Fountains of Wayne<br /><br /><br />Biggest Let Down:<br />Smashing Pumpkins<br /><br />Biggest Expectation of Crap:<br />Britney Spears<br /><br /><br />So sorry there is not more detail. Just don't have the time to go album by album and give you the run down. There are many albums I discovered in 2007 and/or became popular in 2007 that are not eligible for the list - as they were not released in 2007 (Sorry - Lily Allen) but thats the way it goes down here at the Blogtower.<br /><br />Yes - some of my pics are rather odd and some are fully expected. NIN - of course! Blake Lewis (from American Idol) Really? and I say yes! So I highly recommend getting the albums from that list of artists and let me know what you think about it. Till next time....<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-84419675851521294652007-12-27T17:52:00.000-05:002007-12-27T18:19:19.597-05:00NSDPS<span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >Ah, make the most of what we yet may spend,<br />Before we too into Dust descend;<br />Dust into Dust, and under Dust to lie,<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> Sans Wine, sans Song, sans Singer, and--sans End!<br /> -Edward Fitzgerald<br /></span><br /> This was read before these regular poetry readings back in Wroxton. We would go out behind the abbey and read either things either we liked or we wrote. It was a fun time that I will always remember. We called it the "Not So Dead Poets Society."<br /> Writing songs has been a great way for me to take these things and put them out again. I've thought of putting things up here - but just never felt like the right place or time. I continue to write, some of them will see light in song and many will never even be read out loud.<br /><br /> I have been home sick for the past 2 days. And I assure you this has given a new definition to this <a href="http://fm3red5.blogspot.com/2007/05/my-shitty-day.html">old post</a>. Not the way I wanted to spend Christmas and the last days of the year but sometimes...(wait for it...yeap)...shit happens. (Oh why am I not a comedian?)<br /><br /> In any case, I will post my top albums and songs for the year. However, I can barely remember what I bought or downloaded this year. I will say the new Alicia Keys album, is phenomenal. And a new British band called "Scouting For Girls" brings cheeky lyrics to a great pop song. So we'll see where the rest of everyone stands up. You'll have to wait and see. Enjoy the new year!<br /><br />Frank<br /></span>Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-19580016960611388762007-11-25T23:54:00.000-05:002007-11-26T00:38:29.229-05:00A long long time ago - I can still remember...I realize its been over 3 years that I've had this blog going. And WOW - what a difference a day makes. I <a href="http://fm3red5.blogspot.com/2004_10_01_archive.html">was talking</a> about starting my new job, getting engaged, spinning in Philly and the BoSox winning the series. So we're obviously in a different place now. With myself and the world. Very interesting to see how much of a change can happen when its actually documented. I have books that I write in, some of you may have seen them, but these books have been documenting things for me for over 10 years now. Which really feels insane in some ways.<br /><br /> So a few weeks back - I achieved another life goal. This one was standing in front of a crowd and playing songs. Both that I wrote and covered. Thanks to Kris for being an amazing friend and <a href="http://www.myspace.com/4squareband">musician</a>. Karen and Kris have provided me with what I think is the best gift I've ever received from someone I wasn't related to or sleeping with - an acoustic guitar. I haven't put it down for more than a few days in the past year. I've wrote 3 songs (4th on the way) and learned how to play a bunch more. I don't have that mac account anymore or else I would post some of them. Mainly the great cover of Soul Asylum's "Somebody To Shove." That was just amazing.<br /><br />I believe I will check off more life goals as the next year goes by. Had a few this year already done - and maybe December - we check off one more. I'll let you know if that happens. Thanks for everyone that came out that night!<br /><br />So Christmas is here. What? Yeap. Thanks Black Friday and bad radio stations. It's not even December and I'm already waiting impatiently to turn to the station when that damn Christmas Shoes song comes on. Now, yes - I admit being a hypocrite. I did buy the KT Tunstall Christmas CD from Target, but I haven't listened to it yet. BECAUSE ITS NOVEMBER! So step away from the garland and put down your red Starbucks cup and go on your MERRY way, as you would in June. Until Saturday, then GO, roast your chestnuts on an open fire and get sucked into every sale. Is 24 days really just not enough time to buy gifts for people? This year - I got it easy. The family is getting a collective gift. Either tickets to something (regardless of the strike), or a device that you probably are using at the current time.<br /><br />I will say - I'm back in Philly next Saturday, Dec 8. and I love that city during the holidays. It should be fun!Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-79424806745577525312007-11-04T23:49:00.000-05:002007-11-05T00:03:11.211-05:00It's not like he was Anne Frank or something...Ok - I'm sorry - and this will probably help my slide to hell. But I do find this very bizarre. Check out <a href="http://www.thebulletin.us/site/news.cfm?newsid=18983267&BRD=2737&PAG=461&dept_id=576361&rfi=6">here</a> and <a href="http://www.rebeccadavisdance.com/">here</a> to see what I'm talking about.<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-39466426773870597362007-11-03T01:55:00.001-04:002007-11-03T02:01:58.079-04:00Up Above...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GwmjzdPpW20/RywO0GqrZ5I/AAAAAAAAAA0/HSynfeOPf70/s1600-h/lavalamp.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GwmjzdPpW20/RywO0GqrZ5I/AAAAAAAAAA0/HSynfeOPf70/s400/lavalamp.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5128490363973756818" border="0" /></a><br />Next Friday I will be playing in my first real show. Kris (Mr. 4Square himself) and I will be playing a 30- 45 minute set at The Cup. Here's the minimal details as of now:<br /><br />2 Guitars<br />2 Original Songs Each<br />3 Cover Songs<br /><br />I'll be sure to keep you all updated. Till then hope you can make it.<br /><br />Frank<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span>Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-27305853196641900812007-10-07T23:29:00.000-04:002007-10-08T00:29:56.860-04:00She blinded me with Science!<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/dmusic/media/sample.m3u/ref=dm_mu_dp_trk6_smpl/104-4224860-6501555?ie=UTF8&catalogItemType=track&ASIN=B000TE7M6M">Science</a>! Ok yes a music reference - (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Dolby">Thomas Dolby</a>) - however <a href="http://news.aol.com/newsbloggers/2007/10/07/do-strippers-make-more-or-less-money-if-theyre-on-the-pill/">this </a>article is very interesting. I mean what an idea for a study, and who approves this shit? I'm banking on grad students who got to spend a LOT of time talking to strippers and hanging out at strip clubs. Does this mean that women are better in bed during certain times of the month? Actually, I would say yes. I'm also sure both men and women would agree with me regarding that.<br /><br />And now the next study should be what happens when the women start to get their cycle at the same time? Couldn't you see that on the billboard.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">End of the Month Special</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">30 Girls! - Live and Ovulating</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Cum get it! Before the next cycle!<br /><br /></span>That's all for now. Remember - it's nice to be important but its more important to know when your favorite stripper ovulates.<br /><br />Frank<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"></span>Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-1809519160928342112007-09-17T00:48:00.001-04:002008-06-03T01:37:49.686-04:00It's so sexy up here...Wow - its 12:50am. I'm not really looking forward to work tomorrow, but responsibility is necessary. It allows me to make money - spend it on myself and share it with my friends. I've had 4 days off in a row thanks to the jewish holidays. And i will say, I'm feeling fantastic. I don't think I've felt this good in a very long time. Probably several years. If you were seen or talked to this weekend - I just want to say thanks for making it a great few days.<br /><br />These days included a few amazing highlights.<br />1 - Having work people over, sucking down a good amount of good beer and watching a NIN live DVD.<br />2 - Seeing Billy for the first time in months. Hanging out, talking, listening to music - going home with a tub of sausage and peppers.<br />3 - Friday night was my first official "Frank Rooftop Party." Yes - you should expect more. It was sort of a milestone for me. The first real party I've thrown outside of my parents house and probably the first one I fully did myself without the help of anyone. The roof looked AMAZING! and my own quote of the night at about 8pm - before anyone had arrived. "It's so sexy up here - I want to fuck myself." I was shocked at how great it looked and how much of a different type of event it was. I have a TON of extra beer and chocolate left over. So if you want to come and help me have some, just let me know. It was really indescribable at how awesome it made me feel.<br />4 - I woke to Laurita making me pancakes and talking about how great the party was. As I sat eating and listening to music, I was thinking about how great I felt. How much throwing the party meant to me. How happy I am with myself at the current time. I then spent part of the day cleaning and then getting all dressed up for a quintessential Manhattan wedding. It was a beautiful event.<br />5 - Today, I chilled out, went for a run and then spend the evening with Karen, Kris and Tommy. No not a blogger party - but a trip to the NY Philharmonic. Tonight was John Williams conducting the orchestra and it was amazing, as it always has been. We also had the best guacamole at Rosa Mexicano, and I even got to eat there during their chocolate festival. Dinner was on me, which was a big thank you to all of them for - well, everything. I am forever indebted to all of my friends for everything they've done for me - especially over the past year and a half.<br /><br />So I'm hitting the bed. Gonna listen to the "Jurassic Park" soundtrack and sleep well. Thanks again to everyone.<br /><br />Frank<br /><br />PS - Pure in Philly on September 29Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-82784189139146659172007-08-17T01:27:00.000-04:002007-08-17T01:41:15.056-04:00Around The World<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=339ixMtHrVk">This clip</a> might not hold you over till I get back from Sicily. But it'll make you chuckle and in case Daft Punk doesn't make you think of me already, you may now. <br /><br />Random FM3 Fact: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/music/wma-pop-up/B000EHPXYC001002/ref=mu_sam_wma_001_002/002-9573693-1856829">Daft Punk's "Da Funk"</a> was the first dance CD single I ever bought and opened my eyes (and ears) to electronic music. Therefore being the song that really began my career (loosely used) as a <a href="http://www.djfrankmanzo.com">club DJ</a>. It also has an amazing video by one of my favorite directors, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spike_Jonze">Spike Jonze.</a><br /><br />BTW - Daft Punk ROCKED Coney Island last week. Despite the fact that they could have been doing absolutely nothing, it was an amazing show. Truly a <a href="http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s233/themusicslut/daft7.jpg">spectacle</a>. The Rapture was great as well. If you happened to make the show, you know that the <a href="http://www.therapturemusic.com/">Rapture </a>song "whoo alright yeah uh huh" didn't apply to the thousands of dancing maniacs on infield of Keyspan Park. See you soon!<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-50748989430219215022007-08-12T19:32:00.001-04:002008-06-03T01:40:55.903-04:00Been A Long TImeSo I'm sitting here in my apartment. Finally having my PC with me. Not that that's an excuse for not writing in over 2 months... but its my reason.<br /><br />I'm pretty situated here now. It's been an interesting few months. Moving out has been great for me and I'm really getting <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">acquainted</span> with the space and myself. Well not in that way. OK well in that way too. Since the last time I wrote, I've been to Ibiza, Spain again - which was great and in 5 days I leave for Sicily. I performed a few songs at my "whoops - I guess last year wasn't the last" 4th of July party.<br /><br /> But whatever - I've been writing a lot, writing some songs, and enjoying the quiet of not having to have someone yelling at me to do whatever it is. So along with some records, a kick ass sound system, my computer and a queen size bed - I'm out on my own. Which i know for many people its you're 27 - whaaaa? But if you're reading this, you probably know me and understand. If you don't know me or don't understand - feel free to drop an e-mail to someone else.<br /><br /> So it's definitely strange to live closer to one of my best friends at 27, than when we met at 4. Since we lived a whopping 2 blocks away - but now we live 2 doors away. Jack and his wife Laura have been great to me and its been great to have the ability to socialize, eat and drink with them whenever we desire. There is something college like to it. We've made jokes like "got an early class" to "shhhh, we don't want the RA to hear us." It also doesn't hurt that Laura is an amazing cook and that they always cook more than they can eat.<br /><br /> But in any case - I'm off to Sicily on Friday. I'm very much looking forward to it, as I've always wanted to go there. It'll be the longest flight I've ever been on by myself, and to think of it - I don't know if I've ever been on a flight by myself. So thats a bit odd, but I know I'll be sleeping most of it.<br /><br /> And btw - keep Friday September 14 open.<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-79869349273917968442007-05-28T22:01:00.001-04:002008-06-03T01:41:39.663-04:00To The East Side...Wow - I'm tired. Surprised I even have the energy or the desire to blog right now. It's been a terribly long week, albeit a good one. There were some amazing events and quotes over the past week, but damned if i can actually remember most of them. But let's fill in some blanks - shall we?<br /><br />Friday<br />Scene: KJ's Ale House - Staten Island Bar. Bandulos playing live. (Side note: they will be playing on the 4th of July @ My Family's House.)<br /><br /> A) I never ate cake at a bar before.<br /> B) Got a call on the emergency phone for work while at the bar.<br /> Parent: "Hi Frank, K--- didn't come home yet. Should I wait till 1am and then call the police?"<br /> Frank: "If you could hunt her down and kill her that would be great." <br /> Parent: "Oh no Frank, Don't put that on me."<br /><br />Saturday<br />Scene: Headliner - Jersey Shore Fist Pump Palace<br /> Girl: "Oh I'm from Staten Island - Went to Tottenville HS."<br /> Me: "Oh I graduated in 1997 - you?"<br /> Girl: "Me too"<br /> Me: "I'm Frank and you are?"<br /> Girl : "Alison S--"<br /> Me: "Hmm... I don't remember you at all."<br /> Girl: "Well I spend a lot of time getting high in the woods behind the school"<br /> Me: "Gotcha"<br /><br />Sunday<br />Scene: At house after dropping a load of money at Bed, Bath & Beyond<br /> Me: "So you know what Mom asks me? - What color would you like to bring into the bathroom?"<br /> Dad: "What color?"<br /> Me: "Exactly - The only colors I bring into the bathroom and yellow and brown"<br /><br />Sunday<br />Scene: Standing with Derek & Dustyn on 23rd St outside Gotham Comedy Club<br /> Dustyn: "There are two things I love about the summer and girls wearing stuff like that (girl in short skirt and heels) is one of them."<br /> Me: "What's the other?"<br /> Dustyn: "More sunlight"<br /><br />Scene: Inside Gotham Comedy Club - Dave Attell on stage<br /> Dave: "Girls love flowers, I mean they really love flowers. You know what flowers are better than - getting kicked in the cunt. Girls do not like that. Flowers are up here - Getting kicked in the cunt is down there."<br /><br />So kids - that was the weekend - today was filled with painting, sanding and trying not to kill my parents. I'm moving Friday. So I was just letting people do their thing. People would ask where I wanted things, I replied "wherever you want them to go." Because once I give my opinion - people aren't satisfied with it and they want to give me their opinion. No opinions - just do whatever you want. If I like it, great. If I don't, it'll be different the next time you come back. Thanks to everyone that helped today - especially my indentured servants Karen & Kris. I appreciate it!<br /><br />Soon there will be a few small housewarming parties. Work friends, home friends, family, hookers. Not in that order. Hope you can make it.<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-9872320760914949742007-05-17T23:04:00.000-04:002007-05-17T23:29:17.899-04:00Good AssjobIn celebration of finding out the title of Kanye West's 4th album. I give you these links. Yes, Kanye has an name for his 4th album and his 3rd has yet to be released. His 3rd album coming this year is "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graduation_%28album%29">Graduation.</a>" The 4th album "<a href="http://www.rapdict.org/Kanye_West">Good Ass Job</a>." Or what would be the funnier title - "Good Assjob." Here's some other funny links. 1 to read, 1 to hear and 1 to watch.<br /><br />Frank<br /><br /><a href="http://view.fdu.edu/default.aspx?id=3797">I Hope This Girl Didn't Join A Sorority</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.avenued.com/europe/music/index.php?music=discography&ID=1">Listen To Track 6 - Donkey Punch</a><br /><br /><a href="http://gawker.com/news/rape-is-comedy-gold/patrice-oneal-explains-donkey+punching-on-fox-news-260907.php">Donkey Punch 2</a> (<a href="http://www.x-89.com">Thanks Tommy</a>)Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-79864396525638769892007-05-16T23:48:00.000-04:002007-05-17T00:03:16.948-04:00My Shitty DaySo it's been a regular occurrence that something odd happens at my office. It could be arrests of my clients when they assault an officer. Could be bomb threats, fires, etc. Could be the smell of our security guards. Today was no exception to office craziness.<br /><br /> I typically go to the bathroom a few times during the day. I drink a LOT of water throughout the day and well sometimes have other duties (pardon the pun) have to be done. So Tuesday, I went to the bathroom and went to leave. Grabbed the door handle to feel something wet and mushy. Yes, you guessed it - Someone put shit all over the door handle. I mean ALL OVER IT. I almost vomited, right then and there. I used my left hand to turn on the faucet and then washed my hands like 4x. Then in order to get out - I had to grab toilet paper and open the door. I walked up to the front desk, and told them. They gave me some Purell. I told the appropriate people. I Purell-ed again. Washed about 3 more times and then Purell-ed about 5 more times. I was so grossed out it killed me. We're figuring it was a client. We hope at least.<br /><br /> My site administrator asked me if I knew this was in my job description, at least he knew I could laugh about it and wasn't going to like sue the building or some... (ready for it) shit. I can honestly say, I had the shittiest day on Tuesday.<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-5812679022252651942007-05-16T23:16:00.000-04:002007-05-16T23:48:46.508-04:00Save Yourself...I'm a big believer in free speech - well maybe it's because my editing finger was too slow when playing songs like "Put It In Your Mouth" by Akinelye or "Killing in the Name" by Rage Against The Machine back at WFDM. So if you like internet radio, or care about the future of radio and subsequently free speech. Give these sites a visit. Soon enough - the government will take every piece of entertainment and censor it. When satellite radio and internet radio is being censored and penalized for providing entertainment to a non-public ear, the means of voicing your opinion (ie this blog) will be limited. That is the end of my diatribe. The second time I used that word today. Hopefully I'm using it correctly.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.savenetradio.org/">http://www.savenetradio.org/</a><br /><br /><a href="http://peopleagainstcensorship.org/">http://peopleagainstcensorship.org/</a><br /><br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-42636897065364355482007-05-09T20:49:00.000-04:002007-05-09T21:02:09.175-04:00Smashing of the Pumpkins<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GwmjzdPpW20/RkJu90FJLtI/AAAAAAAAAAc/vEObr52b1UY/s1600-h/handsjobs.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GwmjzdPpW20/RkJu90FJLtI/AAAAAAAAAAc/vEObr52b1UY/s320/handsjobs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062730939349151442" border="0" /></a><br />Of course it always makes me excited when one of my favorite bands wants to release new stuff. However, the buzz behind the Smashing Pumpkins new album leaves me with a lot to be desired. I'll have to hear it before I can make a decision obviously. People are already billing it as the best album this year and yap yap yap. I will say that I've been pretty let down by Billy Corgan and company since the "Machina" album. I'm one of the few people that think "Adore" is an amazing album, just not traditional Pumpkins material. Now "Machina" was sub par and it was billed as by Mr. Corgan as the "best rock album ever." Needless to say - it's far from it. So was Zwan (the band post Pumpkins) and Corgan's solo record. I read an interview talking about how he didn't want to use crash symbol sounds on it. What the hell is that about? I mean it's one thing to limit your resources, but avoiding the use of certain type of cymbal? And I assure you - it's needed in that album.<br /><br />James Iha will not be back, D'Arcy Wretsky could be dead for all anyone knows. These 2 people made up so much of what the Smashing Pumpkins were. I will still say, pop in "Siamese Dream" or "Mellon Collie" and you will remember what a great band this...I dare to say it...was. They're live show even went downhill. So... when July comes around. There'll be a new post about the album. These past few years have seen resurgences for bands like Nine Inch Nails and Pearl Jam. So will the Smashing Pumpkins be able to re-entertain their salivating fans and develop a new fan base? Or will this be the reunion / comeback album that should have never been. Unfortunately, I think the latter.<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-29477186500002547712007-04-25T00:50:00.000-04:002007-04-25T01:01:32.530-04:00What Dreams May Come...Years ago, me and two friends decided that after college we wanted to travel to all the FDU campuses by land. Get it sponsored and document it all. It was more of an excuse to be nomadic rebels for a few months, and get something useful out of our already crippling student loans. This trip would start us at Teaneck, NJ then go to Madison, NJ across to Tev Aviv, Israel and then up to our final destination of Wroxton, England. Which meant - crossing the Bering Strait. Which is the gap between Alaska and Russia. Now - in case you don't know - its not really possible to do that without risking your life. Until now - if this goes through - FIELD TRIP! Start packing D & D.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/europe/04/24/russia.alaska.tunnel.ap/index.html">http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/europe/04/24/russia.alaska.tunnel.ap/index.html</a>Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-84395884045687259652007-04-23T23:34:00.000-04:002007-04-24T00:26:36.892-04:00Been A Long Time...I know this blog has been slacking - but I really have to say so have I. Getting time to do things like this have taken the back burner to other stuff. Like playing guitar (Finally wrote my 1st original song), going to the gym (lost about 20 lbs since July - I've been saying this since October as I snack on Starburst Jellybeans), writing (goes along with the song writing), and oh right work. I've also been hitting up a bunch of concerts. <br /><br />So far since the end of March - Snow Patrol, Christina Aguilera, Vedera, Little Charlie, and tomorrow is Fountains of Wayne. I've also heard Superchumbo spin twice this year. So far - I have yet to be let down at all. Honestly, Christina put on one of the best shows I've ever seen. Granted her writhing around on an amusement park horse singing "Dirrty" may have done it alone (I almost needed a bathroom break). However, I've only had chills at a concert a few times. First time I heard Pearl Jam sing "Black" at MSG. Just about every time NIN plays "Hurt." When John Williams encored with the "Star Wars Theme." Every time Ben Folds pulls out "Evaportaed." And now add when Christina Aguilera's "Beautiful" to that list. I'm sure there were more. Maybe hearing the Smashing Pumpkins play "Drown" or Pearl Jam playing "Footsteps." Anyways - she was amazing. That girl can sing and perform and it's unreal. I never posted by best albums of last year - however - I assure you it's amazing and would've made my top 5 easy. Along with the Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado.<br /><br />So that's been some of life. Music. DJing picking back up to a weekly event - which I'm happy about. I'm doing the after party for wedding on Sunday night for a person on NY1 TV. Whom I see just about every morning on "Your Staten Island News Now." Ibiza is booked again for July and Sicily is a dream come true in August. I'm back at Pure soon - either late May or early June. I'm also spinning at The Den in New Brunswick on May 11. That's a lot of the good.<br /><br />The bad - lots of craziness. Watching friends and family falling hard, falling soft and falling out. Everything from visiting a friend in a coma who OD'ed to 3 hour drives about distraught families to the trials and tribulations of unemployment. This goes along with my own internal and external monologues with myself and those around me. Take that along with one of my close friends and co-workers leaving for Virginia to join his family. Which means back to crisis mode at work as well as losing a great person and worker.<br /><br /><br />But that's enough for today. I keep thinking of what to do with this here to make it more relevant and current. Maybe I'll retire it - like the Vixxen and start one over again. Who knows. To quote something I recently wrote and recorded - maybe you'll hear it sometime.<br /><br />I'm picking my pieces back up - starting all over again<br />I'm picking myself back up - living life again.<br /><br /><br />If you do want to hear one of my tracks - there's a link in a previous post on this blog that will get you there. Or maybe somewhere in this one.<br /><br />Frank<br /><br />PS - FM3's Essential Listening: <a href="http://www.nin.com">Nine Inch Nails - Year Zero</a>Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-15769306610665777782007-02-17T15:58:00.000-05:002007-02-17T16:07:50.684-05:00TattooSo I've been thinking about getting a tattoo on my left arm - the only thing I know is that I want it to be the same size as the tattoo on my right arm. So I want it in a circle. Any suggestions? I've been contemplating making it a collection of different shapes and items that encompass myself. The other side already covers the 23 and the Star Wars. So what goes on the left arm? And I assure you I'm not this crazy. At least not yet.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GwmjzdPpW20/Rddt0pxxN5I/AAAAAAAAAAM/xAjdLQvSrIM/s1600-h/nin2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GwmjzdPpW20/Rddt0pxxN5I/AAAAAAAAAAM/xAjdLQvSrIM/s320/nin2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5032611859945043858" border="0" /></a><br />However - many people are - so <a href="http://whatwouldjb.blogspot.com/2007/02/i-bear-scars.html">check this out </a>for some crazy dedication fan tattoos. The last one of Adam Durtiz has to take the cake.<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-62108139361939076962007-02-14T21:39:00.000-05:002007-02-14T21:59:29.031-05:00Valentine's DaySo on this February 14 - I have actually been reminiscing. Back in my freshman year of college I was single. I had a number of friends that were girls, which were and many still are some of my best friends. Dana reminded me of the Star Wars Valentine's Day cards I gave to everyone. And I believe attached on each one was a small chocolate heart. This became the infamous line of being imitated by both Dana and her mother. The phonetic spelling is something like "chawklit hawtz." This became the line followed by "My Friend Frank" from her family, and pretty much still to this day.<br /><br />Another though was the "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Good-Will-Hunting-Miramax-Collectors/dp/6305216088/ref=pd_sim_m_8/102-4427027-6752134">Good Will Hunting</a>" story. Go here to <a href="http://homepage.mac.com/frankmanzo/FileSharing1.html">download </a>and listen to it as broadcast on WFDM, back when I had a radio show.<br /><br />Also up there is a leak of a brand new Nine Inch Nails track called "My Violent Heart." I'm pretty excited for music again this year. Looking very much forward to 2/27 for the new <a href="http://halo22.nin.com/">NIN DVD</a> and to 4/17 for the new album <a href="http://yearzero.nin.com/">Year Zero</a>. In between those two amazing pieces of musical genius, I will get my fill from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Timbaland-Presents-Shock-Value/dp/B000NA26ZE/sr=8-7/qid=1171507991/ref=pd_bbs_sr_7/102-4427027-6752134?ie=UTF8&s=music">Timbaland </a>on 3/27.<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-34057895229059304872007-02-08T21:58:00.000-05:002007-01-30T01:09:50.720-05:00Midday at Chelsea Piers......Dick in a box.<br /><br />So I was at work yesterday rocking one of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/FutureSex-LoveSounds-Justin-Timberlake/dp/B000H305U0/sr=8-1/qid=1170990060/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-4427027-6752134?ie=UTF8&s=music">my favorite albums</a> of the year. I mentioned to my intern I was pissed because I really wanted to go with my brother and his girlfriend's sister to MSG that night. Since Danny's girlfriend works for ticketing at MSG she sometimes is able to get some open spots in the luxury boxes. So Danny goes to the Justin Timberlake concert. Now - I know - I already defended "<a href="http://www.stereogum.com/img/princelyphallus.jpg">Prince</a>" to <a href="http://www.picsbymikef.com">Mike </a>this week, so being told I squat when I pee or the ever original "and you're sure you're not gay" really has a lackluster effect on me at this point. Now, I like Justin Timberlake, I like this album and his first. I even like some of NSYNC's final stuff. In particular the <a href="http://www.btmusic.com">BT </a>produced "Pop." So it would've been entertaining for me. I do think he's talented and he does play a variety of instruments and even covered "Smells Like Teen Spirit" on his club tour. But I've missed shows before, and if I really wanted tickets I would've paid for them. But then...of course - my respect for this man goes up. With what will most likely be the ONLY live performance of this song. Yes - JT encores with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PSLOTiupQQ">"Dick In A Box."</a><br /><br />I played <a href="http://www.speedyshare.com/410175786.html">this remix</a> of it out last week at <a href="http://www.dennightclub.com/">The Den in New Brunswick</a>. It was the best crowd reaction I got all night. Individually, it was the guy who told me how great I was playing and he wasn't expecting to dance that hard. It was also about 12:30am at the time. Looks like I'll be going back there. Thanks to <a href="http://jamesanthony1.blogspot.com/">James </a>for asking me to fill in!<br /><br />And March 24 - <a href="http://www.purephilly.com">Pure in Philly</a><br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-1167886330767560162007-01-03T23:49:00.000-05:002007-01-03T23:52:10.780-05:00My Favorite Movie of 2006I'm waiting for the sequel!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/7935/543/1600/839273/IMG_4106.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/7935/543/320/507624/IMG_4106.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Frankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-1166420359400879232006-12-18T00:17:00.001-05:002006-12-18T00:42:40.020-05:00A Social Experiment2 examples of my of social experiences from the weekend and a video daily double.<br /><br />In a bit of irony - this happened to me at a video game store the other day. The clue here is in the name of the um, um, clerk.<br /><br />Frank - Do you have the Nunchuk for the Wii?<br />Clerk - We had 2 this morning, but they sold out.<br />Frank - They're sold out everywhere<br />Clerk - Yeah we got a whole box of them a week ago and people just went crazy and bought them all in a few days.<br />Frank - Wow<br />Clerk - Bunch of savages in this town.<br /><br />Proceeded by laughter on both parts.<br /><br /><br /><br />At a small bar where I DJed on Saturday. I will use WTB to stand for White Trash Bitch.<br /><br />WTB - I don't know if you notice, but this isn't what people want to hear<br />Me - Oh, well I was told to play more dance and hip hop.<br />WTB - Maybe that's OK later, but we want to hear some 90s alternative rock and maybe 60s. But not the 80s, because that decade was terrible.<br />Me - Oh ok, I'll see what I can get on for you.<br />WTB - Obviously you have no idea what you're doing, you have to play better music.<br />Me - (sarcastic)Thank You<br />WTB - Oh my, thats the nastiest "Thank You" I've heard in a year and a half.<br />Me - (breaking and starting to laugh - but trying not to full out make this woman spit her 3 yellow teeth at me) - So, a year and a half ago, what happened then.<br />WTB - That's the last time someone said "Thank You" that nasty.<br />Me - Right<br /><br /><br />And the video daily double<br /><br /><a href="http://currenttv.com/watch/17629331?s1=newVids&list=newVidsByAssignmentDesk&k1=13078156&k2=0&sid=17629331&fr=14 ">What's Your Pop Secret?</a> Mine is, yes that's Mike Musco and a bowl of popcorn.<br /><br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-1166419045108632362006-12-17T23:49:00.000-05:002006-12-18T00:44:24.903-05:00A few odd ballsSaturday Night Live finally has picked up their game in the last few seasons - mainly with the inclusion of a NOT live segment. This is known as "An SNL Digital Short." You may have seen "Lazy Sunday" or the classic "Natalie Portman Rap" which I know I posted about some time ago. So here's another one. Makes me like JT even more and gives you a great idea for that last minute Kwanzaa gift. Be careful - it's catchy! <br /><br /><a href="http://video.nbc.com/player.html?dlid=51289">http://video.nbc.com/player.html?dlid=51289</a><br /><br />So after that you can look at this - <a href="http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/yearend/2006/charts/dsl_singl.jsp">Dance Trent, Dance</a><br /><br />Now I'm excited - but NIN as Hot Dance Single? Even the NIN sites are sort of shocked - I assure you I never heard a mix of this on KTU. Oh maybe that's because KTU only plays music from 1996 and before. Hell I've never even played it out - and I just mixed NIN's Closer with Beyonce's Irreplaceable on Saturday night. There's a new NIN DVD coming out on February 27, 2007. It looks amazing. It's being released in DVD, HD-DVD and Blu-Ray. Not that anyone actually owns a Blu-Ray player yet. We're being told a new album will be finished in early 2007. Which if all goes well means we will see it in stores in 2009. <br /><br />I'm slacking on my best of songs and albums for the year, but I assure you it is coming and there will be some really obvious choices and some odd balls. Really, what else would you expect from me.<br /><br />In the helping a brother out category - I was sent some nice gifts the other day from <a href="axerecovery.com">axerecovery.com</a> for the AXE Recovery Top Hangover Songs List. Check out the site (you do have to register and stuff) but it's sort of an interesting musical discussion. Take a quick guess which one I chose. <br /><br />Sunday Morning - The Velvet Underground<br />Comfortably Numb - Pink Floyd<br />Fairytale of New York - The Pogues<br />2000 B.C. - Basehead<br />Here Comes a Regular - The Replacements<br />One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer - George Thoroughgood<br />Louder - Lo Fi Funk<br />Power - Kid Congo Powers<br />Van Drunk - The Scud Mountain Boys<br />Low Side of the Road - Tom Waites<br />I Am Wasted But I'm Ready - Ben Kweller<br />May You Never - John Martyn<br />The Bar Is A Beautiful Place - Ryan Adams<br />Coffee and TV - Blur<br />Poison Cup - M. Ward<br /><br /><br />Finally - I will be checking out <a href="http://www.kevindevine.net/">Kevin Devine</a> at Maxwell's in Hoboken on January 5. Be sure to come and check him out and see why he made my list of the best albums of 2006. Whoops...<br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604721.post-1165382717987504242006-12-06T00:17:00.000-05:002006-12-06T00:25:18.000-05:00The Holiday PanicAs much as I love the holidays - some people like them more. Like the people that are waiting in 30 degree cold at 9:45am waiting for Best Buy to open - are already playing Christmas music non stop - or um this lady.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/7935/543/1600/835026/IMG_4267.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/7935/543/400/598200/IMG_4267.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Yes those are antlers on her VW. Maybe I'm just a bit behind this year. Maybe I need to dust off "A Very Special Christmas - Volume 1" and rock out to one of my favorite tunes - "Christmas in Hollis" by Run-DMC.<br /><br /><br />FrankFrankhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260772479244732118noreply@blogger.com1