Sergio!

It's been quite a while since I've posted, but I'm going to try and get That's Amore up and running strong again. To kick things off I give you a hilarious Digital Short from last week's Saturday Night Live. The short, entitled "The Curse", stars Andy Sandberg as a businessman who has a hex placed on him by a hobo. Whithout giving too much away, the curse involves the sudden appearance of greased up Jon Hamm with long hair and a tenor saxophone. And so begins the legend of Sergio...

3eb at QU: Concert Review

After a string of ridiculous rap concerts, I was elated that Quinnipiac could bring in an act such as Third Eye Blind. Not only are they a band that I have always enjoyed, but they are a group that has a mass appeal amongst college students. I didn't really hear any complaints about them being chosen to play the Fall Concert; in fact there was actually quite a buzz surrounding their performance. Playing up at the TD Bank North Sports Center would certainly make for a lively atmosphere and a strong pregame up at the new Yorke Hill campus. When it was all said and done, the full experience was an eclectic mix of good, bad, and retarded.

I got the festivities started with the "That's Amore" radio show at 5, where myself and co-host Bob Talbot (Talbot Talks Sports) discussed the upcoming NFL games while enjoying some Vodka heavy mix drinks. "That's Amore" soccer correspondent London Joe called in for a hilarious guest spot where he proceeded to call QU's soccer coach "a stupid wanker who must have sat on a fat one". After a condensed 45 minute show filled with irreverence, Bob and I hitched a ride from my parents over to Ray & Mike's to get a couple of boner-inducing steak & cheese subs. We needed to get a ride from my parents because the notoriously prickish QU security would not allow any non-Yorke Hill students to bring their cars up to the campus. (I think I speak for all of my fellow students when I say that all of QU Security can all fornicate themselves with an iron rod.) Once we arrived at Yorke Hill, we went to our friend Alyssa's room to pre-game while we waited for the rest of our friends arrived. I had acquired a copy of the show's setlist from a friend and passed it around the room. Reaction was mixed to say the least. While most of the classics were on there, the band was planning on playing a ton of new stuff, and the QU favorite "Crystal Baller" was nowhere to be found. Despite some minor disappointment at the time, the excitement remained high for everybody. Some more familiar faces entered into the room as I threw back some man-sized swigs of Jack Daniels. After some more drinks and bullshitting over sing-a-long background music, we decided to make the short trek over to the arena.

Once inside, I settled into a good location on the floor with a group of my friends. Unfortunately we had to endure the last few songs of the shitty emo band that opened, but with the buzz I had going it didn't seem like too long of a wait. Finally, after about a half hour set change, the lights went out and 3eb was ready to come on. They began with a crazy techno instrumental song complete with strobe lights and glow sticks. The dancing silhouette at the top of the stage chucked the sticks into the crowd, and I was able to wrestle one away from the person in front of me thanks to my drunken will power. With the crowd energy hitting a peak, the band launched into "Can You Take Me", the opener on their new album Ursa Major. It worked well as a quick uptempo number to get people into the show, even if a lot of them had no idea what they were hearing. After the rapturous applause for the opener, the band went right into the classic "Losing A Whole Year". Always a favorite of mine, myself and many others screamed out the lyrics to this rager with pure joy. Two more great older songs followed, "Faster" and "Wounded", and it was evident that the show was rolling along very nicely. After the stellar new song "Sharp Knife", the crowd pleasing "Never Let You Go" made an appearance, much to the delight of my buddy, QU soccer star Kevin Nunes. The next four songs saw the two best new songs, "Bonfire" and "Water Landing", and two of the best old songs, "Motorcycle Drive-By" and "Jumper". "Jumper" particularly was a highlight if only to see the whole arena singing in unison to the amazingly catchy chorus.

Up to this point the show and experience were stellar. However, things would slow down considerably in the middle of the show. The road crew rolled out a couch for a small acoustic set and the band began the set with arguably their worst song, the new "One in Ten". They then followed it up with the little known "Palm Reader" from 2003's Out of the Vein, which coincidentally was one of the weaker songs on that album as well. The acoustic break ended on a high not with the popular "How's it Going to Be" from the self titled album in 1997. Despite everybody knowing the last acoustic song, I began to sense that the crowd around me was losing interest in the show. I assumed getting back to the electric sound for the rest of the show would bring everybody back into it. However, 3 of the next 4 songs were new tunes, and it certainly made some of the crowd a little restless. Perhaps it had something to do with everybody's buzz wearing off by this time, but it's also not fun for people when you don't know the songs being played. "Graduate" was wedged into the run of new songs and it featured a kick ass drum solo sandwiched in the middle of it. The restless crowd exploded when the band finally launched into their most well known song "Semi-Charmed Life" as the last song before the encore. It was a great performance and even featured a small tease of "Ride Wit Me" by Nelly, which was quite bad ass. That song finished a strong, if not slightly predictable and uneven main set.

By the time the band came out for the encore a good deal of the crowd had poured out of the arena. They came back out to the same encore I've seen them play every time I've been to one of their shows. It began with the lyrically haunting "Slow Motion" and finished with the beautiful "God of Wine". Unfortunately both of these songs are slower and most people around me didn't know them well, so there was some palpable dissatisfaction from some people at the end of the show. It was compounded even more by the fact that our fervent "Crystal Baller" chants were left unanswered. As a side note, it was clearly evident at this concert that lead singer Stephan Jenkins epitomizes the height of douchery. He said some of the most ridiculously corny things I've ever heard from a band at a concert. "We're going deep tonight guys!!!" Please, Stephan spare me the bullshit and just play music. Despite his lameness, I thought it was a very good show. Nothing I hadn't seen before, but a good time on a Saturday night nonetheless. I would've loved to have heard some more old tunes such as "Blinded", "Thanks A Lot", "Wake For Young Souls", "Crystal Baller", or "An Ode to Maybe", but I can't complain about a $15 ticket to see a band that I've always loved.

We capped off the night at Dick's in Hamden with a mix of Jameson shots, Irish Car Bombs, and a whole lot of beer. As I reflected on the night later on at home in my inebriated state, I was reminded why college is such a great time. You just can't beat a weekend night where everybody comes together to share a bunch of drinks and listen to some great music together. In the end, it was all really about the social scene and hanging out with your good friends for a night. Third Eye Blind was more or less in the background.

New Lows: NFL Week 3

"This can't be happening". "They'll get back in the game". "Any minute now, I'm sure we're going to shatter their hopes again". These were just a few of the lines being echoed by myself and my family of Redskins fans on Sunday afternoon as we watched our beloved team get worked over by the Detroit Lions, losers of 19 straight games....

(Full Post Coming Soon!)

Album Review: State Radio - "Let It Go"

State Radio is back with their third studio album "Let It Go", and it is time for rejoicing. Coming on the heels of two very strong albums "Us Against the Crown" and "Year of the Crow", my expectations were very high for this follow up. Thankfully, the band has answered the call and put out a disc that features their trademark variety in style and lyrical content. This album reaffirms my thought that former Dispatch member and State Radio front man Chad Urmston can do no wrong. Let It Go is a musical exploration of style that covers every style from reggae to ska to just plain balls out rock. Overall is a fantastic listen and measures up with some of their best work in the studio. On to the song by song analysis.

1) Mansin Humanity - This cleverly titled hard rocker (get it? Man's Inhumanity) is a blazing way to kick off the album. With intense guitar riffs and vocal cord shredding screams, it establishes right out the gate that State Radio is not messing around with this effort. The melodic verses are a good compliment to the heavy instrumental breaks and cause this tune to hearken back to the Dispatch classic "Even". The raw production style we are introduced to on this track (and subsequently the whole album) manages to capture a live feel that the band hasn't been able to quite get right in the studio. Great opening track. 9.5/10

2) Calling All Crows - Things get a little lighter on the second track with this catchy reggae number. Lead singer Chad Urmston belts out lyrics about rebels and revolutionaries in an infectiously singalong manner. Some cool studio effects such as a background melodica add to the mood of the song and compliment the smooth bass groove from Chuck Fay nicely. Overall, Crows is a nice catchy number that, although not mind blowing, keeps the album moving along in an effective way. 7.5/10

3) Dr. Ron, the Actor - Holy. Shit. This toe-tapping ska number is a huge highlight here. Beginning with a recorded voicemail from the mentally challenged man it was written for, Dr. Ron begins slowly and then explodes into a catchy rager that you can't get out of your head. The song has a little bit of everything; great lyrics, a soulful guitar solo, and a fantastic rythm section performance. You won't be able to stop singing along and lines like "Even if you're bleeding/never stop believing that we all live free or die" will stick with you for some time. 10/10

4) Arsenic & Clover - This song brings a bit more of an angst ridden edge to it, not much unlike the songs on the band's last album "Year of the Crow". Riddled with interesting lyrics such as "Thou shall not want all that is within me", this one reminds me alot of a song like "Uncertain" and it fits in strongly with the rest of the album. There is alot of energy in the recording and Chuck Fay once again kills it on the bass. 8/10

5) Bohemian Grove - This straight up reggae number is different from many of State Radio's other forays into the genre. Instead of being upbeat like "Right Me Up" or "Calling All Crows", it is decidedly darker, much like "Legacy of Margaret Brown". Featuring some of the more politically charged lyrics on the album, "Grove" plots it's way along slowly as it builds towards a soaringly melodic chorus. It's definitely a good song, but I feel like there isn't enough going on at times. The slow pace and lack of musical changes bring it down a bit for me despite the very strong lyrical content. 7/10

6) Knights of Bostonia - A straight up ball of energy, "Knights" follows the path that was paved by bands such as the Pogues or Dropkick Murphy's. It feels like a great irish drinking song and it is amazingly fun to listen to. It's the type of tune that might not have amazing replay value on record, but it is still fantastic. While I doubt I will listen to the studio version much unless I'm in the mood to rage while throwing back whiskey shots, this song will undoubtedly be a blast in the live setting, much like "The Diner Song". 8/10

7) Let It Go - The title track of the album is a very intriguing song. It feels like a constant build up during the verses and then explodes with a chorus that simply repeats the desperate plea "Let It Go" over and over again. It is a quick song that has its place on the disc, but isn't the most memorable song you'll ever hear. Lyrically however it is classic Chad and I can certainly see why the band thought that the song's content would be worthy of gracing the album's cover and title. 7.5/10

8) Evolution - Another completely reggae song, this one is very soulful but missing something. It isn't as musically diverse as alot of other State Radio songs and almost feels like a work still in progress. I don't hate it, but I don't think it is all that good either. Definitely the weakest song on the album. 5/10

9) Held Up by the Wires - There is only one way to describe this song: A fuckin' TEN. After missing the cut on the first two albums, "Held Up" shows up in stellar form. Being one of State Radio's oldest songs, I have heard many live versions before hearing the studio cut. I thought a studio version was bound to dissapoint in some manner after such a long wait. Boy was I wrong. Everything about this track is perfect. The heavy handed lyrics, the dark and haunting feel, the huge guitar sounds, and the stunning vocal performance make this track a killer. This is without a doubt the best track on the album, and one of the best songs the band has ever recorded. 10/10

10) Blood Escaping Man - Another older song that has been played live for a number of years, "BEM" is a strong highlight on the record. The track exudes energy and also features a very nice harmonica part from Chad that serves as a good musical break. The subtle lyrical references to The Odyssey are clever and very thought provoking. I had high expectations for this recording, considering I have loved this song for quite sometime, and it did not dissapoint me. Very good song and a very energetic studio cut. 9/10

11) Still & Silent - Being one of the few songs that I had not heard before the album's release, I was very interested in taking a listen to this one. I have to say that it was better than I ever thought it would be. Starting with a slow piano intro, the song builds up to a great wailing climax that concludes with powerful vocals from Chad where he poses the question "How can we stay still and silent". It is a very fitting way to finish a great album and leaves you wanting more State Radio. 9/10

12) Reggae Indian Moon - Ask for more and you shall receive. This hidden track is a very loose alternate take on the powerful acoustic number from "Us Against the Crown". It is a fun and different interpretation of the song, but it is nothing to write home about. As a bonus track, it is an uplifting and pleasing way to finish listening and will be something I'll give a spin every once in a while. 7/10

Overall, "Let It Go" is an album you will want to listen to over and over again and will surely withstand the test of time. There are a number of classic tracks on here and practically no filler. State Radio has proved once again that they are one of the best bands around today. If only more people were aware of their greatness...

The Yankees Are Back In The Playoffs!

Although it was going to happen soon regardless, it does not make it any less sweet. After missing the tournament a year ago, the New York Yankees became the first team in baseball to clinch a playoff spot by beating the Angels last night!

Changing of the Guard: NFL Week 2

Sunday perfectly characterized why we all love the NFL so much. Filled with stunning upsets, dramatic finishes, and an audacious new stadium, Week 2 showed that the 2009-2010 NFL season will follow the same path of unpredictability and unmatched excitement that the league has become known for in recent years.

Perhaps the biggest story to come out of the weekend was the potential changing of the guard in the AFC East. After talking alot of smack during the week, the New York Jets walked the walk with a dominant 16-9 victory over the Patriots at the Meadowlands on Sunday. Having never beaten a Tom Brady-led Pats team at Giants Stadium, this win marked a huge step forward for the re energized franchise. Rookie QB Mark Sanchez showed great poise and presence, but it was the stifling defense that impressed me the most. The Jets were relentless in their pursuit of Brady, and although they failed to register a sack, they constantly pressured him into making poor throws and decisions. The Jets defensive scheme and execution in this game hearkened back to what the Giants did to the Pats in the Super Bowl a few years ago. By not allowing him to ever get comfortable, the Pats offense could never get into a good rhythm and in turn was only able to muster up 3 field goals. I have to say that I am loving what new Jets coach Rex Ryan has brought to that team. He exudes a confidence that borders on arrogance, and his team follows suit. You get the feeling that after only 2 games this team truly believes that they have what it takes to make a run at it this year. Whether or not they continue on this pace, the Jets franchise has certainly had new life breathed into it by a group of hungry players and a coach who really seems to "get" the modern NFL player. It's been quite some time since I've been able to say this, but I am now looking forward to watching Jets football and think that rest of the AFC East has been put on notice: These Jets are for real. Now onto some thoughts on each Sunday game...

Atlanta 28 Carolina 20

• The big guns showed up for the Falcons on Sunday. Matt Ryan tossed 3 scores, Michael Turner rushed for 100 yards and a TD, and new addition Tony Gonzalez grabbed his second TD in as many weeks. He's already proving to be an excellent addition.
• Jake Delhomme looked remarkably better this week than he did in week 1. I guess he had nowhere to go but up, but it is still a good sign for Panthers fans

Vikings 27 Lions 13

• This type of game will become very familiar to Lions fans this year. There will be flashes of improvement and brilliance from the team as a whole and Matthew Stafford, but reality will ultimately come around to bite them in the ass the majority of the year.
• Favre's 2 touchdown passes this year have both been short swing passes to Percy Harvin. I expect him to be much more of a game manager than he has in the past b/c he has other guys who can do the heavy lifting.

Bengals 31 Packers 24

• Wow, this was quite the surprise. Cedric Benson ran wild, Antwaan Odom went off (5 sacks!?!), and the Bungals pulled off the first big upset of the season. Coming off of last weeks heart breaker, this was a fantastic rebound for Marvin Lewis and co.
• You got a heavy sense of deja vu at the end of this one didn't you though? All I was thinking when Green Bay recovered the onside kick was how if the Bengals managed to blow that one, they'd never be able to recover
• It looks like the Pack may not be as good as the pundits believed they were going to be. Barely beating the Bears despite 4 interceptions, then losing at home to a embattled Bengals team.
  

Cardinals 31 Jaguars 17

• The Cards finally win in the eastern time zone!
• I like the guy, but Jack Del Rio is on really thin ice in Jacksonville. You can't go from being very competitive one week at Indy and then lay an egg like this in the home opener. His team have been terrible underachievers the last two seasons

Raiders 13 Chiefs 10

• It's a good thing these teams play each other b/c I'm not sure they'd win otherwise
• KC out-gained the Raiders 409-166 and lost. Pathetic. Where do you even begin if you are Todd Haley?

Saints 48 Eagles 22

• It wouldn't have really mattered if Donovan McNabb played in this game or not. You'll be hard pressed to ever win when you give up 48.
• Drew Brees is insane. At this rate he is going to put up astronomical numbers.
• Quite the interesting start for Philly. A blowout win on the road followed by a blowout loss at home. What's next? Perhaps a close game?

Redskins 9 Rams 7

• Sigh....really Washington? 5 red zone appearances and no touchdowns is just unnacceptable
• This game actually speaks volumes about how bad the Rams really are. The Redskins practically wanted to give this one away but St. Louis couldn't get the W.
• As ugly as it was, a win is a win. As a Skins fan I'll gladly take the victory and just pray we don't lose to the Lions on Sunday.

Texans 34 Titans 31

• A surprise shootout and surprise victor in this one. I wrote the Texans off after being pounded by the Jets, but I was impressed with them in this one.
• Tennessee has big issues when it comes to pass defense
• Andre Johnson will do that to you though. What a great receiver. I think his hands are doused in stick-em
• Chris Johnson shows up and goes completely off in this one. As much as a 0-2 record hurts, I think the Titans are still a good team.

Bills 33 Buccaneers 20

• Buffalo rebounds nicely after the MNF debacle at New England
• Typical T.O. effort. Drops a sure thing touchdown but catches another
• It's going to be a long ass year for Tampa Bay

49ers 23 Seahawks 10

• Frank Gore went crazy in this one with two huge TD runs. I can't believe the 49ers didn't give him the ball more in the second half. He had 203 yards rushing with over 25 minutes to play. Talk about a blown chance to potentially break a record
• Patrick Willis destroyed Matt Hasselback and may have seriously damaged any playoff hopes Seattle had.

Bears 17 Steelers 14

• Party animal kicker Jeff Reed cost Pitt this game, plain and simple. If he makes even one of those two kicks in the 4th quarter, the Steelers would be sitting pretty at 2-0
• Jay Cutler looked significantly better in this game, and Bears fans have be feeling great relief after that big win

Broncos 27 Browns 6

• Booooooring. Cleveland is awful and Denver's 2-0 record is an illusion

Ravens 31 Chargers 26

• The good for Baltimore: They all of the sudden are an offensive juggernaut
• The bad for Baltimore: The vaunted D gave up over 400 yards passing to my boy Phil Rivers
• All time great play by Ray Lewis at the end of this game. He burst through the line like a bat out of hell to blow up Darren Sproles and the Chargers hopes of winning
• Norv Turner sucks. Terrible play call on 4th down. How he ever got another job as head coach is beyond me.

Giants 33 Cowboys 31

• This game felt like more of a large showcase or a circus than it did a football battle.
• The G-Men should send Tony Romo a fruit basket as thanks for handing them this game
• It is always amazing to see Jerry Jones and Wade Phillips dissapointed. They want to be good so badly, but they're not even half the team they think they are

Colts 27 Dolphins 23

• Miami dominated this game TOP wise yet still managed to give it away
• For my money, Peyton Manning is still the best QB in football, regardless of what anyone else will tell you.
• Donald Brown is going to be a big time player for the Colts. Nice to see a UConn alum in an impact position in the NFL

That wraps up my coverage on another great week of football in the NFL. While the matchups coming up in Week 3 are less than intriguing, I'm sure some crazy, unexpected shit will happen as always. I'll try to actually remember to make my pics sometime later this week, but at the very lease I will be previewing the games on the "That's Amore" radio show. Until then, you stay classy San Diego...

That's Amore: The Radio Show

Starting one week from today, September 26th, you can catch my brand new radio show on Quinnipiac's radio station WQAQ 98.1! The show will air from 5-6 PM weekly and will cover a wide range of topics, not much unlike this blog. To listen to the show, simply visit http://www.wqaq.com/ and click "Listen Now". I encourage you to call in to the show or send me any requests you have that you feel would improve the program. Hope you all tune in and enjoy!