I Like Doctor Who (Holy Crap!!!!)

I can't believe that I'm saying this, but the new Doctor Who from the BBC is fantastic. It's going to be out on DVD here in the U.S. in July. I have a great connection here in the city for bootleg DVD's.

So, when he had the good doctor, my husband grabbed it up.
Joe is a big Doctor Who fan. I will call him out right now. He has been to a Doctor convention. With all of that in mind, he really wanted to see the show. I was reluctant to say the least.

A little back story on my love/hate affair with science fiction. I am a little schizo on this topic. I think in many things there are good ideas, but I also think that many times the execution is off. American Sci-Fi distracts you with amazing effects and British Sci-Fi distracts you with the lack of effects. It's a little weird. There are many things in science fiction I enjoy. My favorite books are Brave New World, Farenheight 451, and Slaughterhouse Five. I'm not sure how that happened. And, the big ideas in the first 2 Matrix films was right up my alley.

Sorry, tangent. But, the new Dr. Who is extremely well done. Good acting, clever scripts, and decent effects are all here. Christopher Ecclestone plays the Dr. Much more sour and sarcastic. He is not twinkly like Tom Baker. Billie Piper and John Barrowman play his traveling companions. John Barrowman plays a bi-sexual time traveler. The character is done very well and handled with wit and dignity.

Russell Davies is the new writer/producer. He created the original Queer as Folk. He brings the same good writing and strong show running to this new doctor. Doctor Who is really good. Everyone who enjoys science fiction or British humor should check it out. And, if you watch a lot of British product, look for a variety of guest stars.

Fliering with the Famous

So, I just got back from a tough room that I fliered for. The place is great, the other comics were great, and I have had amazing sets there. Tonight the crowd was tough, but every laugh was worked for. So, I did feel a bit of success.

But, I was able to flier in Times Square. Amazingly, Cee-Lo, rapper from Goodie Mob and currently out with the combo Gnarls Barkley was walking by. I said, "hey Cee Lo" and tried to sound like I knew him. It worked. He turned around and so did his friends. I worked my Amy magic and he took a flier. His friends laughed at my chutzpah and also took fliers.

They did not come to the show. But, they have my flier. Maybe they'll think about it and come another time.

I think the value in this lesson is to always be brave and do what you need to do.

I am so happy about this story, I've posted it on all my blogs! I'm such a loser.

The End of an Era

So, tonight Will and Grace had their series finale. I watched it. Full disclosure, I haven't watched this show in years. But, I wanted to watch the finale because I think this show, when it first aired, was a revelation. It had gay characters who spoke in a truly "gay" way. There were in jokes, sexy jokes, and a wealth of pop culture.

For me, I related to the show. When it first appeared I was still single and my best friend, then as now was my own Will Truman, Dale. I related to the closeness of the characters. Many things on the show seemed as if they were my life. I know if Dale reads this, he knows that Will and Grace's dominance at games was directly lifted from our lives.

After college I got married and moved to NYC. Dale came with his partner Tom and moved close by. As I watched the finale. All of the talk of destiny and how those who are supposed to be in your life will always be there, spoke to me. I got a little teary thinking about my life and how much richer it is because of all of those who have come into my life. Especially my best friend.

So, the episode was fine. But, the feelings that it brought up meant something. Honestly, without this show I don't think acceptance would be where it is. We have a long way to go, but in it's own way, Will and Grace brought gay people into millions of homes and maybe a few out of their closets. So, with all that said, goodbye Will and Grace. The world is better because you were on the air.

Upocoming Amy Events

Wonder what Amy is up to? Want to see her hilarious comedy?
Then check out my MySpace page for all the dates, times, and prices.

http://www.myspace.com/amypatrick

All your Amy news in one place!

Happy Birthday!!!

So, my hubby is soon to be 30!
Holy Crap!
I just wanted to put this short post and say Happy Birthday and I love you so much.

Don't Fear the Reaper Joe!

In Search of the Real Me

So, because of the awesome Noushineh, I have done this test.

So, this is a way to see how you see yourself VS. how others see you. Go to the site and see what you would pick for me.

http://kevan.org/johari?name=Amy Patrick

Amy's Movie Reviews

So, I'm finally seeing more movies. Yay!!! I will also have more reviews coming next weekend. And, I am going to share stories about my DJ class on my MySpace and Comedy Soapbox blogs. But, for now, sit back and relax, enjoy the show!

Take The Lead: (director Liz Friedlander)
So, anyone who knows me, knows my favorite genre of film is the "ragtag group of ______ pulls it together and makes something of themselves" genre. This type of film can be found in almost every style of film. A few examples that I highly recommend; The Dirty Dozen, The 7 Samurai, The Bad News Bears, Slap Shot, School of Rock, and you even have documentaries like Spellbound and Mad, Hot Ballroom.
Take the Lead follows in the footsteps of all of these films. The movie is based on the life of Pierre Dulaine. He is a professional ballroom instructor and dancer. After seeing a troubled teen one night, he decides to work with kids who really need him. The story breaks no new ground. He has to get the kids to trust him and also get them to believe in themselves.
Antonio Banderas is very good as the teacher and he can really dance. The students are played by a variety of familiar faces from other teen flicks. Rob Brown from Finding Forrester and Coach Carter does a good job as does Lauren Collins from Degrassi and Yaya Acosta from America's Next Top Model.
The movie captures class difference and how race is important, but being poor can wear on you harder than anything. The NY scenes are captured well and uses locations not normally seen in the city. It's a nice change of pace.
Many of the kids are types and we also have an uptight teacher and a principal who loves the program but might have to shut it down. Will the kids make it to the big competition? Will the program survive? Will mortal enemies find love? You know all the answers already. But, that didn't stop me from getting misty and enjoying the film.

Silent Hill: (director Christopher Gans)
It's official. If you want to make a frightening film, you must decide to have it take place in an alternate dimension or hell on Earth. Silent Hill is based on a video game, but works as a movie. The atmosphere, tension, and general work on the film make it a pretty good horror film.
I am not a fan of PG-13 horror/suspense. I grew up watching horror in the 1980's and was weaned on films like A Nightmare on Elm Street, Dawn of the Dead, Jacob's Ladder, and various other gory and scary films.
Currently, horror has been pandering to teens and watering down the product. Only foreign horror has been stepping up. But, Silent Hill is gory, scary, and tense. It follows in the creepy tradition of Candyman, Hellraiser, and In the Mouth of Madness.
Lovecraftian horror is an idea using the work of H.P. Lovecraft. His work features an idea of unspeakable horror. And, unspeakable horror never works on film. Excluding a few films, that I already mentioned, it hardly ever works.
Silent Hill was directed by French director Christopher Gans. Check out his film Brotherhood of the Wolf. It's crazy, scary, and really well done. Silent Hill is muc better directed than most horror. The gore is there and the acting is fairly good. My biggest qualm is that you can really feel that it is based on a video game. Certain scenes, sound effects, and plot points seem very much like they were lifted directly from a game. During the last big confrontation my husband said, "That was one hell of a boss level".
But, if you just want to be scared and can leave a certain level of logic at the door, check this out.

Whatever Happened to TV Theme Songs?

So, I recently downloaded the theme song to "Sanford and Son" to my iPod. Before you judge me, this is a great song. And, as a TV theme it's perfect. When you hear the song, it sounds like the instruments are found in a junk yard. There's funk in it and the overall tone captures the shambling spirit of the show.
As I listened to it, I thought about how great all the shows in the 70's and 80's used their theme songs to capture a feeling or mood about the show. Typically, songs with lyrics were organic to the show. The lyrics usually summarized the show or set the tone. Today, if there are lyrics they very rarely fit the show's content.
This is a short post, but something I've been thinking about recently. I wish we had more singable or recognizable themes. Even the old themes without lyrics set a tone. Think about "Barney Miller" or "Night Court". And, pretty much any show created by Norman Lear (Good Times, The Jeffersons, Maude) or Junger/Witt (The Golden Girls) had a song that made you fondly recall the show. I am pretty sure that these themes made the shows better and kept them on the air longer.
So, check out the themes now. You'll see that they are actually really good songs. They stand on their own merits. I wish TV shows had that today.

Lost Stuff

I'll admit it, I'm a nerd for this show!

http://www.thehansofoundation.org

1-877-HANSORG

Both are great timekillers. The tenacles of the conspiracy grows.

A Few Thoughts on Immigration

I am writing this short post because I truly supported the May 1st march. The boycott I'm on the fence about. But, I really just have a few thoughts on all of it and wanted to share them.

1. If your last name isn't KillingDear or RunninBear you have a stake in the march. Just because we subjugated people and ran rampant, that has somehow made us not immigrants anymore. I don't buy it. Every group that has come to this coutnry has been crapped on and treated badly. But, now, when the face of it is darker than khaki, we want to build a wall.

2. Building a wall around the United States is one of the worst things I've ever heard. A wall blocking us in is one of the tragedies of our lifetime. If we do it, we will fall the way Rome, Egypt, and other great Empires fell.

3. And, if people wanted to stop illegal immigration, they would force businesses to stop outsourcing, raise the minimum wage, and force employers to have ethics.

4. Also, if you don't want to lose a job to a "Mexican", then get a diploma, start a business, and get some training because honestly, that's the jobs they're allegedly taking.

5. And finally, most illegals pay into our system. In fact a large amount of them pay taxes into the system and get nothing back.

So, finally, can we stop this nonsense? We are the greatest country in the world, even though there are times when I get mad about it, but our time might be closing. Narrow minds and cold hearts are the problem in this world. Let's be open and honest and work as the nation of immigrants we are.

Lestat: The Musical (A Review)

Why is it that theater gets vampires so wrong? Literature and cinema have done, for the most part, right by the creatures. But, theater is either too campy or too boring.
The creators of "Lestat" have been handed a property that could have worked on stage. But, instead of working with just one novel they decided to do a "Lestat's greatest hits" and it fails miserably. I wish the musical would have been a huge debacle with just train wreck qualities. However, it's not even interesting as a failure. It's adjust standard, boring Andrew Lloyd Webber pap.
I'll handle a few elements and give some opinion on what I would have done better. I think there was a lot of talent involved and the actors on stage did the best they could. But, they were done no favors.
The music is not interesting at all. For a show that takes place in France, the Middle East, and New Orleans, the music conjures up none of these places. In fact, the music really conjures up Broadway circa 1987. A real chance was blown with that. Someone like Michael Chiusa could have done well with the concept or even working with an actual rock star. We should have felt some life or danger or sense of place. This was a score that went through a generic music machine.
Before I go on, the one interesting thing in "The Vampire Lestat" is that he becomes a rock star and uses the music to send messages. He is charismatic and sexy. His music is a huge success. So, why not bookend the play with two big moments and make the middle an extended flashback into who he is? That way we see who he is and how he got that way. It also gives the actor a chance for a big opening and closing number. And, it gives the writer a chance to let loose with a fun song and draws the audience right in.
No, we follow a chronological story that is both slow and yet not even vaguely complete. The "love affair" with his mother is just barely discussed in a song called "The Crimson Kiss" and his childhood companion Nicholas is seen as his true love but they never show us. We also never feel his connection with many of the people and Marius might as well not even be in the show.
The best thing about the play, to me, was that they gayed it up. At least Lestat was truly pansexual and the other people in his life were appropriately gay. However, the role of Claudia was too broadly played and I felt they were trying to create a camp icon with her and not a truly tragic figure.
Oh well, what do I know? The show got a standing ovation. I however, went home and watched the movie "Interview with a Vampire" over again and lamented what they could have done on stage.

Baby Steps

Some recommended pages of comedy and other comics. Enjoy!

http://blaggblogg.blogspot.com
http://www.iamtimwarner.com
http://www.adamsank.com
http://www.joshhomer.com
http://www.pattonoswalt.com

And, last but not least, my group's two websites:
http://www.myspace.com/neighborhoodwatchcomedy
http://neighborhoodwatchcomedy.blogspot.com

I'm Back

So, the Plow is back from her vacation. Much soul searching and thinking was done. Now, she is back and ready to write more, do more comedy, and generally try to actually get a career. So, watch this space for more writing and more concert dates and other amazing things.

A Small Service Interruption

The Plow will be back next week with many more informative and hilarious posts. I am off to discover the Caribbean on an amazing cruise.

Peace out!

I'm Going to be on MTV!

Ok, so maybe I'm only going to be part of a segment with no talking, etc. But, I can spin it as a TV credit.
Here's the truth. I currently do tutoring to make some extra cash. I am currently tutoring a young girl named P-Star (stage name) who is a rising actor and rapper. MTV came to film a "You Hear it First" segment. I got to hold the MTV News mic and say, "My name is Amy Patrick and I give MTV permission to use my image." Awesome!
So, MTV filmed us as we did our lesson for the day. It was bizarre. I'm sure I'll look completely insane. I did wear make-up and did my hair because I was told in advance of my brush with greatness. So, the whole thing is suppsoed to be on MTV next month. I will be honest and say that I am kind of excited. This is national TV bitches.
So, be on the look-out. I'm one step closer to fame and riches or at least infamy and bus fare.

Amy's Movie Reviews (back from hiatus)

So, it's been a while. I have not been to the movies as much as usual. A lot of things have gotten in the way. These include: Knicks games, theater, comedy, and just general fatigue. But, I have seen a few movies and wanted to write some reviews for you, my awesome fans.
Last night I was at the Tribeca Film Festival for the premiere of Jeff Garlin's "I Want Someone to Eat Cheese With". Garlin is best known as Larry David's friend/agent on "Curb Your Enthusiasm". With this film he takes on a romantic comedy. The film is sweet, weird, and funny. And, although the film is rough around the edges, it has a lot of charm and will hopefully get seen.
Before I start with the movie, at the Q and A following the film Garlin talked about the fact that he lost funding twice and the film took almost two years to shoot. He also created almost every character for the actor playing it. His reliance on several improv and comic actors that are recognizable to comedy viewers is a good thing. There are scenes where you feel that Garlin just wanted this person he really likes to have a chance to be funny. And, for the most part, it works.
As the two women that Garlin falls for, Bonnie Hunt and Sarah Silverman showcase their comedic strengths. It also helps that both woman are really funny and help Garlin with some of the comedic heavy lifting.
And, for comedy/improv fans be on the lookout for Amy Sedaris, Richard Kind, Wallace Langham, and Homer Simpson himself Dan Castelleneta. I enjoyed the film and I hope it at least gets some minor distribution.

Liza with a Z

So, I just watched the Bob Fosse directed special "Liza with a Z". It played on Showtime and is soon to be on DVD. I'm not a huge Liza fan, but I am a huge Bob Fosse fan. His films are filled with amazing imagery and his choreography is instantly recognizable. Probably only Twyla Tharp and Jerome Robbins have a style that you recognize immediately.
Fosse's style is filled with small gestures and precision. Hats, gloves, wide fingers, and subtle hip movements are his signature. On the aspect of the dancing, the show is a great success. Liza was raised to be an entertainment machine. You sense her professionalism to the core. However, because she is an entertainment machine, you never feel much joy. Liza seems to want to do the best show ever. And, the show is very good. Once Liza begins her singing, dancing juggernaut show picks up. The "Cabaret" themed finish is the highlight. And, Liza nails the title song the way she always does.
So, why am I not more excited? Two things; as much as I love Fosse, his directing style is distracting in the TV special form, and secondly, Liza never looks like she's having that much fun. Everything appears calculated and formed to the smallest detail. I want to see sexuality and joy and the art of having a good time. And, for much of the show this is missing.
Now, I would not say this is a pan. I loved the dancing and Liza sounds great. I personally was just hoping for a little more joy.

Just a Little Love...

I wanted to say thanks to everyone who has supported me in the last year. You make me feel like I have family.

"Everyone say Dirk"

Meet the Knicks

So, last night before my standard Tuesday show I went to a special event for season ticket holders. This is my husband and I's first year with the Knicks. We had Nets tickets for two years. But, the distance, horrible fans, and lack of caring that made us leave. Joe was upset because he was banking on their move to Brooklyn because they would have been within walking distance.

But, I digress. The Knicks, as anyone who follows sports knows, are atrocious. But, truly, and I don't want to talk about this too much. Isaiah Thomas is horrible and Stephon Marbury stinks. But, if you look at the new guys and what they could be doing, it's a shame. I have a feeling Marbury will be traded in the offseason and they will magically win a lot more games next season.

Again, another digression. As a thank you to fans, the Knicks had a big event. There was free food, autographs, and games. We got a DVD about the history of the Knicks. I got to meet my favorite player Nate Robinson. He was friendly, cute, and really connected with the fans. BTW, he had his dunk contest trophy with him.

Joe got to meet his favorite player Channing Frye. But, he was a little sad. He thought Frye was aloof. But, I did make the point that being a talented athlete does not make you friendly or not socially awkward. Joe basically acknowlegded the truth in my statement and as usual, I win.

Later today, I am going to try to load pics of the event on my myriad of blogs. Be on the lookout.

Joe said he will get season tickets again because the Knicks have made him feel like they care.

Upcoming Amy Events

April 6th at 7pm Kaparty Lounge 140 2nd Avenue NO COVER!!!

April 9th at 7:30 High Chai Tea Room Avenue B and 2nd Street NO COVER!!!

And, as always, every Tuesday at 10pm The 5Spot Supper Club 459 Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn NO COVER!!!!

Hopefully, this gives you loads of information on where to find me. And, check back for more dates and other important Amy news.

Trader Joe's

So, NYC just got a Trader Joe's last week. I did not go on opening day because I learned my lesson from opening day at Target. Fool me once, you know the rest (unless you are President Bush). So, I waited a week and also decided not to go until after lunch when it might not be so packed.

How could I go at that time of day? Most of you know. So, I went and there was a crowd, but it was not bad. They also have modeled their check out similar to Whole Foods. The selection was not as good as other Trader Joe's I have been too. But, I am attributing that to the fact that it is probably madness their every day and they do not re-stock until after closing.

But, I did get a lot of stuff and didn't even break the 30 dollar mark. You can't beat that. The same stuff at Whole Foods would have been much more expensive. But, I still love you whole foods. You stole my heart.

So, that's all from this front for now. I am going to enjoy my Trader Joe's turkey jerky and hazelnut spread. (Not at the same time weirdos).

Guilty Pleasures

So, there are many things in this world that due to where I live, my education level, etc. that I should not like. But, I can't help it. I love these things.

• curly fries with cheese from Arby's
• the musical career of Jennifer Lopez (that new song with LL Cool J is phenomenal.)
• judge shows (Greg Mathis is the gangsta of justice)
• vacations in Daytona Beach
• chicken sandwiches from Burger King
• NY 1's "In the Papers" segment hosted by Pat Kiernan
• The Planet if the Apes films
• Jem and the Holograms
• Classic Fantastic Four plotlines
• Maury Povich
• the books of Jaqueline Susann
• the books of Anne Rice
• teen series books (Gossip Girl, Meg Cabot, Francine Pascal)
• Weather on the 1's
• Star on Ice and other traveling skating shows
• spelling bees on ESPN
• world's strongest men competitions
• Wendy Williams

Why did I write this? Because as I watched Fox News (to know my enemy) and saw an advertisement for Branson, Missouri. Bart Simpson summed up it up best. "Branson is Vegas for people like Flanders." The sick part is, as I watched the commercial I thought about going there. Why? Because deep down, all of us are week for cheese and kitsch. It's human nature, I think

But, even with these guilty pleasures, there are things that I will never like.

• Larry the Cable Guy
• Siegfried and Roy
• the circus
• mini-vans
• racist, homophobic jokes (see Larry the Cable Guy)
• arena football
• Hannity and Colmes
• "Date my Mom"
• Dip Set (Cam'Ron, Juelz Santana, Jim Jones)
• Michael Baisden
• Books from Triple Crown Publications

The Greatest Show in the History of Television

The other day I was watching some atrocious dating show on MTV. It could have been "Next", "Date my Mom", etc. And it got me thinking. In my college and early post college days there was a show that made dating a beautiful, horrible, spectacle. That show was "Blind Date".
"Blind Date" went off the air about four years ago. To that I say, rest in peace. Blind Date was a train wreck that featured two kinds of dates: nightmares or full erotic encounters. The show also featured thought bubbles, sideline comments, and pop-up commenting on the sanity, horniness, or drama of the contestants and the situation.
The show had obviously intoxicated people, mentally ill people, and just plain bananas people. Good times.
Nowadays, every date on the MTV shows end with making out. There are weird dates, but never ones where you worry for the safety of the participants. It can be funny (see the chubby who wiped out coming off the "Next" bus), but it never reaches the heights of Blind Date.
If you have never seen it, check out Amazon. This might be the best 30 dollars you ever spent.
Trust me.

Getting Back in the Swing

Starting this week, the blob will be back to its old self. More reviews, more musings, more Plow!

Sad news, Make my Cake on 110th and CPN in Manhattan has been torn down. Anyone who wants amazing sweet treats has to go to 139th and Lenox Ave. near the Harlem Hospital.

And one more FYI to New Yorkers, the Shake Shack in Madison Square Park is back open!!!!! Praise the Lord!

Why the Plow Has Been Derelict in her Blogging Duties

So, it's been a long week. I know that my tens of fans have been depressed. My family was here and I had the Comic Strip audition this week. So, in a nutshell, it was bananas.
Mainly, the Comic Strip audition was what I wanted to talk about and piggyback on Josh's blog. I think I got a really good tape out of it and the crowd was supportive. I did some old jokes that I tweaked and worked on with my homie Josh. My grandma got harassed by Jessica Kirson and she loved it!!!! Yay!!!!!
So, the audition. I did my classics and tried to stay calm. Apparently, I didn't. I must have appeared nervous. Which, full disclosure, I was. This was big time and it matters. It matters a lot. But, the feedback was great. Starla gave me props on my jokes and said that my construction and joke writing was far ahead of my year in comedy. But, she told me I was a deer in the headlights. I was honest with her and told her how nervous I was at the venue and how much it meant. She said she understood, but I gotta get over it. It was very positive. She said she hopes to see me at the next audition and that I knock it out of the park.
So, the next year is all about confidence. It's about stagetime and joke writing. The feedback made me feel like I'm on the right path. I also told her that for me, joke writing is my goal and it was good to hear I'm on the right path.

Apologies...

To my tens of fans...
I have been working very hard at finding a job. So, the blog has suffered. Hopefully, after next week, I'll have work and something to write about.
Thanks for your support.

Oscar Re-Cap

So, I'm just going to write few random thoughts about the Oscars. In my famous and barely literate way, I'll use bullet points to get the messages across.

• I thought John Stewart did a very good job. The show ran on time and he realized he didn't need to hog. The ad bits about campaigning for Oscars was fun. And, his best line was "I think it just got easier for a pimp."
• Speaking of, as much as I worship Dolly, "It's Hard Out there for a Pimp" was the song that best represented its film. I take issue with the chorus having to change bitches to witches. Um, pimps and bitches go together like peanut butter and jelly.
• "Crash" won and was the only real surprise. It was a good film. But, "Brokeback Mountain" and "Good Night and Good Luck" were better made films in my opinion. And, I don't think homophobia hurt Brokeback, I think overstauration did.
• The Robert Altman honorary Oscar made me happy. He gave a short speeach that was self-effacing and humble. I love that man. "No one has gotten a bigger break than me."
• As they showed the clips of his films, Joe looks at me and goes, "He never won an Oscar?" I reminded him that neither him or Martin Scorsese have won.
• Lily Tomlin and Meryl Streep were amazing and natural giving a speech in the style of an Altman film. I wish I was Lily Tomlin
• I also love George Clooney. I usually don't quote Sex and the City, but Clooney is the Armani of men. Classic, smart, and always in style.
• Finally, the show ran on time, good work was rewarded, and the montages were nice.

Now, enjoy my wrap-up and every other person's wrap up.

Blogging for Fun and Profit

Not really, but here are some good blogs to kill time at:

http://trent.blogspot.com
http://www.gawker.com
http://blaggblogg.blogspot.com
http://www.bestweekever.vh1.com
http://www.queerty.com

Enjoy slacking on your bosses time!

Dave Chappelle's Block Party

I was fortunate enough to see a sneak preview of Dave Chappelle's Block Party with my good buddy Kristy. The movie is not flashy, it's basically a straight up concert video with human interest things thrown in. But, it's the mix of music, comedy, and good nature that makes the film a winner.
I will throw out this caveat. If you are not a fan of backpack rap or neo-soul. Pass on this. The acts include The Roots, Mos Def, Jill Scott, Common, Erykah Badu, etc. You get the picture. If you are not a fan of this kind of music, pass on this. The film is almost 50% concert footage. However, if you are a fan, you will be impressed. As usual, The Roots are the coolest and most talented guys in the room. The Fugees reunite, but they sound terrible and Lauryn is still in crazy mode. But, it was good to see the three of them back on stage.
Now, the human interest/comedy segments are the strongest sections of the film. Two young men that get tickets in Dayton to the concert will steal your heart. They are funny, cute, smart, and just adorable. Hopefully, they're single because they will be getting a lot of lady fans. Many of the people Dave meets during the day to day of his life are genuine and seem to be nice people. Dave also meets some adorable children in a Daycare Center and gets to give Central State University's band to the show. CSU has had a lot of financial and political trouble as a historically black college. Their exposure in this film should change it.
Dave and Mos Def do some hilarious Vegas style comedy. Dave hangs out with a wide variety of characters. And, director Michel Gondry, knows when to just let people talk and never makes himself the star.
So, check it out. It will make you love Dave all over again.

Parental Control

Just a short post. But, I am highly recommending the new MTV show "Parental Control". In the show, parents pick new prospects for their child.
Good times.
The boyfriends and girlfriends are atrocious, the parents are overbearing, and the kids are spoiled brats. It's all good when you watch it. You will laugh your butt off and cringe at the same time.
Also, check out the special doc on MTV called "Fat Camp". I can only say one thing. Wow.

From MTV's website:
Thanks to MTV's new Parental Control, Mom and Dad finally have a chance to do something about that poor excuse for a loser their son or daughter calls their 'better half.' Fed-up parents will send their pride and joy on two blind dates of their choosing, in the hopes that one of them will catch his or her eye so they'll finally dump What's-Their-Name. All the while Mom and Dad will be watching every minute of every date, sitting side-by-side with their son's or daughter's current partner on the couch like one big, uncomfortable family. When the dates are over, the son or daughter has to make a choice between Mom's pick, Dad's pick and their current partner. Will the son or daughter follow parental guidance, or reject the parents' picks and stick with The-Wrong-One.

When Amy met Mooney

So, this is another personal blog, and it will totally be the last. I already posted a version of this on the Comedy Soapbox. If any Plow fans want to get to know me, check out my blog at www.comedysoapbox.com. But, here I'm usually a culture vulture. But, I did want to talk about the amazing class I took at the Learning Annex. It was a comedy writing seminar with Paul Mooney.
A lot of people probably know Mr. Mooney from his recent appearances on Chappelle's Show with "Ask a Black Dude", "Negrodamous", and "Mooney at the Movies". In the past he has an amazing list of credits. I'll list a few; head writer for "Sanford and Son", writer for "Good Times", comedy writer for Whoopi Goldberg, Lily Tomlin, Richard Pryor, and Eddie Murphy. He has also written for SNL and "In Living Color", and he was in the movie "Bamboozled". Holy Crap!!!! I'll take one of those credits.
So, at the program you had to go up and do a five minute set in front of him. I was literally a foot away. He is a comedy legend and known for being uncompromising. There have been times in the last year that I have grown frustrated with comedy because I feel like the hustle is too much. I'm always told by show runners and club owners that my comedy is too "smart" and "don't you have any personal material?" Both of these comments are code for, "you don't fit the stereotype of a lady comic. Do more self-esteem and dating jokes." But, I can't. And, during the seminar I am now more committed to doing my thing and people can come around to me.
Why, you may ask? Because Paul Mooney loved me. He told me to get on stage more. He also said I was hip, smart, deceptive, and kept him listening. This happened two days ago and I'm still high.
I have been up and down with comedy. But, lately I am back in the saddle. Three shows a week is my minimum. I suddenly feel much better about comedy and I have to thank Paul Mooney for that.

Cultural Differences

I am a fan of cultural differences. So many times in our country we do this whole, "we're all the same" nonsense. Personally, for me that's a bunch of bunk. I think differences are what make us so great. If everyone was the same the world would be really boring.
Case in point...
I was at a baby shower on Saturday. It was a predominantly Jamaican group of people. There were a smattering of African-Americans. My self and a Jamaican born white dude were the only people lighter than caramel. And, it was a totally different world.
A short list of the things at this shower that I have never seen before:

• A DJ who played reggae and when a good gift was opened by the mother to be gun shot effects or voice effects were played.
• A full meal and appetizers.
• The party started at 7pm, but things didn't really start until almost midnight.
• Dancing, a gift announcer, and about 200 people.

It was amazing. I had never been to anything like it. I loved every minute. I stayed until midnight and the party was still going strong. I got home from a baby shower at 1am. Wrap your mind around that! Everyone should have to do things like this. Something like this baby shower is why America is great.

And the Nominees Are...

completely predictable.
So, they literally just announced the Oscar nods. I was on the treadmill at the gym watching them. I was glad with some and the rest were exactly what I expected. Just a few notes however.

• Play a real person
• Scarlett Johansson did not get nominated because they nominated too many good looking actresses. How did Woody's supporting actress magic not work this time?
• The screenplay noms are solid and very good.
• I wish Jeff Daniels had gotten nominated.
• Because society has finally discovered it's 2006, gay roles, minorities, and "edgy" subject matter is being rewarded.
• And lastly, if subtle acting and tricky roles were the only consideration Michelle Williams, Felicity Huffman, and Terrence Howard would win.

Why Rap Music Matters

So, rap music is not as good now as it was even a decade ago. Currently, the market is loaded with bloated product and sub par talent and production. But, it still matters. For almost 25 years raps has mattered more than rock music. Critics are always looking for reasons why. People look at the production, the changing face of the United States, and the rise of music videos. All of these are valid arguments, but I have one big reason that no one mentions. Rap uses popular culture to link there songs to current life.
Rock music is usually in a vacuum. There are about three topics rock talks about. Rock talks about ladies/romance, rocking, and partying. They never talk about what happens in day to day life. They obviously never watch TV, read books, see movies, or exist with the rest of the world. Rappers bring up everything. They use metaphors and descriptions that usually employ pop culture. It brings the song to real life. It becomes relateable to the rest of the public.
Right now, rap is getting out of control. A lot of it is junk. In the way that rock had to be destroyed by arena rock and new wave to slowly come back with roots rock like The White Stripes, Wilco, Kings of Leon, and My Morning Jacket. Rock is coming back very slowly. But, it's still a long way off. Until things balance out, rap will continue to dominate.

Two More Recommendations...

I forgot to mention two other movies that I saw this year that I really enjoyed, but others seem to have missed.

Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang
In Her Shoes

both are very different, but are worth your time.

Lifetime Movies are Back!!!!!

So, last night "A Little Thing Called Murder" premiered last night. The film was a fictionalized account of the Sante and Kenny Kimes saga. For, those of you who don't know, Sante and her son Kenny killed Irene Silverman in NYC in a plan to steal her home. They were caught and convicted, but not of this crime. Ms. Silverman's body was never found. But, they were convicted of a string of crimes that they found evidence on. They are both currently serving life sentences without the possibility of parole.
The new movie "A Little Thing Called Murder" plays in a similar manner to "The Positively True Adventures of the Texas Cheerleader Murdering Mom". Both films stay true to the facts, but the acting, writing, and directing of the film enhance the camp factor.
Judy Davis eats more scenery in this than she did as Judy Garland. She plays Sante as deranged and believes that she is smarter than everyone. Every other actor on the screen just has to hang on and enjoy the ride.
The movie should be replaying throughout the month. Check it out and be prepared to be awed by the real things that happened. Remember that this woman was one of only 2 people in the 20th Century to be convicted of slavery!!!!

The 6th Annual Amy Awards

So, here it is. I know all of you have been clamoring for it, the 6th Annual Amy Awards. As my many fans know, I make a list of the films, actors, and other film matters that I loved the most during the year. As usual, I have not seen every movie. There are plenty of films I'm sure I would have loved, but did not see. So, until someone is willing to pay me to see movies, which I will gladly do. Also, remember that the movies are in no particular order, just as my brain remembered them.:

Favorite Movies:
Batman Begins
The 40 Year Old Virgin
Wedding Crashers
Broken Flowers
The Squid and the Whale
The Family Stone
Brokeback Mountain
Match Point
Hustle and Flow
Junebug
Grizzly Man
The Aristrocrats
Kung Fu Hustle
Movie that Nobody Saw and I loved: Lord of War
Movie that Nobody Saw and I hated: Derailed
Best Actors: Terrence Howard, Anthony Anderson, Ludacris (Hustle and Flow), Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal (Brokeback Mountain) Matt Dillon, Ludacris, Terrence Howard, Ryan Phillippe, and Michael Pena (Crash), Joaquin Phoenix (Walk the Line), Jeff Daniels and Owen Kline (The Squid and the Whale), Bill Murray and Geoffrey Wright (Broken Flowers), Christian Bale (Batman Begins), Steve Carrell, Paul Rudd, Seth Rogan, Romany Malco (40 year Old Virgin), and Werner Herzog for his narration of Grizzly Man.
Best Actresses: Taryn Manning, Taraji P. Henson (Hustle and Flow), Thandie Newton (Crash), Reese Witherspoon (Walk the Line), Amy Adams (Junebug), Michelle Williams and Linda Cardellini (Brokeback Mountain), Scarlett Johansson, Penelope Wilton, and Emily Mortimer (Match Point), Felicity Huffman (Transamerica)

The year in review: I found that this year the movies ran in cycles. The summer was very strong as was the winter. There were movies I didn't love, but admired like "Crash" and "Good Night and Good Luck". I think the strength of conviction has grown for many films. Comedies had a strong year. I could talk about numerous things this year. But, to me, the opening of movies dealing with race, sexuality, and gender are all moving forward. We still have along way to go. An example of this is in "Hustle and Flow" which is about a pimp, but is mainly about the black strive to get to the middle class.
This was a tough year for female actresses with even a smaller amount of good roles. Actors feasted. Maybe one day, I'm not holding my breath, it will get a little more equitable.

So, I hope all of you enjoyed. I will be adding comments when ideas come to me. But, you guys should feel free to post on up. Get ready for the Oscars!!!!!

Why I'm Jealous of Niecy Nash

Ok, I am going to say it. I'm jealous of Niecy Nash's career. Anyone that knows me, knows that my goals are modest. And, at every turn, Niecy gets to do something I would love to do. Here's a small list.

• have a key role in a Rboert Altman movie (Cookie's Fortune)
• host a decorating/home improvement show (Clean House)
• have a great role on a hilarious and edgy tv show (Reno 911)

Needless to say, I would love to have any one of these jobs, and she gets all three. Damn you Nash!!!!!

Neighrborhood Watch is Running my Life

So, things have been really nutty lately. I just got started with a comedy troupe known as "Neighborhood Watch". We're trying to get a blog up, set gigs, make money, etc. So, things here at Mr. Plow have been really falling behind. Next Monday you will have your 7th Annual Amy Awards. I know you are all a twitter.
If you want to be kept abreast of all Neighborhood Watch events, please feel free to e-mail neighborhoodwatch@yahoo.com. We will add you to our mailing list and you'll be kept abreast of all our happenings.
Also, check us out at http://neighborhoodwatchcomedy.blogspot.com. This site is subject to change and we'll be sure to let you know. Happy New Year to all Mr. Plow readers. I love you, even when I ignore you.

The Year End Lists Begin...

So, let's start with the best singles of the year. As usual, rock music continues its downward spiral into complete oblivion, rap becomes the bloated mid-70's arena rock of this generation. However, there were a few bright spots and I want to give those a small shout out.

• Hung Up by Madonna- A great dance song using an amazing ABBA sample. Madonna really wanted to get her gays back. She got them and then some with this simple song. And, thank God she decided not to rap anymore.
• Hollaback Girl by Gwen Stefani- Gwen Stefani has been cashing in her ghetto pass and I couldn't be happier. The Neptunes gave her the beat that all high school guys play on their desks. She gave people a chance to spell bananas a lot. A good time was had by all.
• The Whistle Song by Juelz Santana- The hook took this song to the next level. As a member of Dip Set, Juelz raps in their typical nonsensical style. But, the use of a dog whistle and the spare drum beat makes this a great get on the floor song.
• The Whisper Song by Ying Yang Twins- Another great song with a nice sloping beat. And, the real kicker is how filthy this song is. Using a whisper to say atrocious things is genius and an indictment on what happens in relationships. Also, the dirtiest song I've loved since "Can't Fight the Feeling" by Too Short and Latrimm.
• My Doorbell by The White Stripes- The White Stripes learned to play new instruments. Jack White pounds on an old piano and talks about his upcoming booty call. The Little Rascals influenced video took it to the next level.

And finally, Gold Digger by Kanye West featuring Jamie Foxx- This song was misread by a lot of people. The song is an indictment of how society treats black women. Any black woman who looks for status is immediately named a gold digger. But, if she stands by a man and helps him she will get screwed when he leaves her for his trophy white woman. This struggle is common for many black woman and Kanye spelled it out. Too bad that too many people spelled it their own way.

And, there were some other great songs. Here's an honorable mention list:

• Hate it or Love it by 50 Cent and The Game
• Mr. Brightside by The Killers
• Heard 'Em Say by Kanye West and Adam Levine
• Beverly Hills by Weezer
• Feel Good Inc. by The Gorillaz
• Don't Cha by The Pussycat Dolls
• Shake it Off by Mariah Carey
• Since U Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson
• Lose Control by Missy Elliot with Ciara and Fatman Scoop
• Confessions of a Broken Heart by Lindsay Lohan

So, if you have iTunes or Music Match check out these songs. They are great to walk to or listen to. And, it's amazing how crappy albums can create amazing singles.

Amy's Comedy-Palooza January

Check me out this January at my home clubs. In Brooklyn, it's the 5Spot Supper Club and in the big, bad city it's Joe Franklin's.

5Spot Supper Club (Myrtle Ave. and Washington Brooklyn)
$2.99 Cover Charge/No Minimum
January 3rd @ 10pm
January 10th @ 10pm
January 17th @ 10pm
January 24th @ 10pm
January 31st @ 10pm

And, January 9th at 11pm at the NY Comedy Club (24th Street and 3rd Avenue) $10 bucks and two drinks!

Hope to see you guys there. You can check out each venue at http://newyork.citysearch.com.

Recommended Reading...

I have spent the past month catching up on some reading. I wanted to create a small list of recommended books for all my readers. Check them out, you might accidentally learn something.

• In Cold Blood, Truman Capote
• Lunar Park, Bret Easton Ellis
• Neil Gaiman, Anansi Boys
• Shame of the Nation, Johnathan Kozol
• The Best American Non-Required Reading, edited by David Eggars
• The Plot Against America, Phillip Roth

All fo these books are worth your time and you should check them out. They all have their own style and cover a lot of ground. Try to check them out. They are all available at your local library.

Happy 2K6

Mr. Plow and this demented Baby New Year wish you a great 2006! We'll be back soon with the Amy Awards and lots 'o culture fun!

Another Year Older and What Have You Done

For me this has been a big year of change. I left the library after 5 years and began a job with more freedom so that I could pursue comedy and writing. It's a long slog but I love all my friends who have supported me and made me feel like this was an okay idea. Especially a big heart of love to my husband who is an amazing man and is supportive of all my insanity.
Well, enough about me. I want to wish everyone a happy new year. Remember all of the people who face huge tragedy and our soldiers and our dumb ass government. If you pray, pray for them. If you don't just try to make your life and the lives of others as good as possible. Let's all work to make this country the amazing place it can be.
Sorry about all that. I think I just had a small brain aneurysm. So, good luck and God bless in 2006.

Mr. Plow wishes you a Happy Holiday!!!

Dispatches From Brooklyn...

I just wanted to write and wish everyone a Happy Holiday season. I probably won't put up any new crap until after the new year. So, to all my friends, family, and readers...

MERRY CHRISTMAS
HAPPY HANUKKAH
JOYOUS KWANZAA
HAPPY NEW YEAR

And, blessings and love for any other celebrations you enjoy. Mr. Plow loves you!

The Amy Awards

So, I know that my multitude of fans are waiting for the 6th Annual Amy Awards. But, until the transit strike lets up I will not be able to see all the movies I want to. So, I will probably not be able to put them out until late January.
If the transit strike lasts longer, then a lawsuit will be filed by Mr. Plow because they are ruining my blog.

'Tis the Season

So, it's almost Christmas. And, to quote Andy Williams "It's the most wonderful time of the year." I love the holidays. Gifts, trees, lights, food, it's all good. But, for me the toppper of Christmas is the music. I wanted to give everyone with a CD burner of iPod can make the perfect mix for the holidays. These are just a few of my favorites.

• This Christmas Donny Hathaway
• All I Want for Christmas is You Mariah Carey (the song Phil Spector wishes he did)
• Baby, Please Come Home Darlene Love (the song Phil Spector blessed us with)
• Merry Christmas Otis Redding
• Oh Holy Night any artist (just make sure they nail the "fall on your knees" part)
• Christmas in Hollis Run DMC ("It's Christmas time in Hollis Queens/ Mom's cookin' chicken and collard greens")
• Santa Claus is Coming to Town Bruce Springsteen (accept no substitutes)
• What Christmas Means to Me Stevie Wonder
• Last Christmas WHAM!
• Christmas Time is Here/Linus and Lucy (you know it and love it, always gets me ready to dance)
• Simply Having a Wonderful Christmas Time Wings
• So, This is Christmas John Lennon
• Gee Whiz, it's Christmas Carla Thomas
• Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth David Bowie and Bing Crosby (always makes me chuckle and is actually a beautiful song)

So, I hope this gets you nice and Christmased up! Happy Holidays to all of my buddies, the readers, and this whole dysfunctional but lovable country I call home.

Masters of Horror and Biting Social Commentary?

Believe it! Have you ever wanted to see Ann Coulter (or her stand-in) get shot in the head? Have you ever wanted to see Karl Rove (or his stand-in) get his face pulled off by a zombie, then "Homecoming" directed by Joe Dante on the Showtime series "Masters of Horror" is for you. The plot and review will come soon. But, first I want to educate those of you who don't know about Mr. Joe Dante.
Joe Dante has been working consistently since the 1970's. He is not what is called a "profitable" director. He has been lucky to have friends that include Steven Spielberg, Robert Zemeckis, and John Landis. His biggest benefactor has been Spielberg who has had him direct a segment for the Twilight Zone film and the revival of the show. For those who don't know he directed the segment featuring the boy who controlled his happy family through his mind.
As a director Joe Dante has only made three films I would consider sweet,"Innerspace", the nostalgia film "Matinee" where he paid homage to William Castle and "Looney Tunes: Back in Action" where he honored another of his influences Frank Tashlin and the Warner Bros. cartoon factory. Other than that, his career is filled with dark comedy disguised as horror or fantasy. A brief list of his work; "Gremlins", "Gremlins 2", "Small Soldiers", "The Howling", and "Piranha". All of these films revel in uncovering the hypocrisy and treachery of small town life.
He loves working with many classic B-movie actors and frequently uses Dick Miller (RIP), Robert Picardo, and Wendy Schaal who was in his biggest hit "The Burbs".
Having Spielberg as a friend got many of his films produced and kept him working with "Amazing Stories" and "Twilight Zone".
With the new "Masters of Horror" show on Showtime Dante continues to work as a social commentator, but with more anger than usual. It is going to be replayed throughout the month and is available on demand if you have that option. The show is about this current war and how Republicans say they speak for the dead soldiers and how they know what they feel. Unfortunately, the Republicans in this film couldn't be more off-base. The soldiers come back to stop the war. They want to vote.
The best part is at first the Jerry Falwell stand-in praises this as a miracle to show the president's power and the Republican powers want them to vote, they're soldiers right? Hahahahahahahaha! These soldiers vote only for those willing to end the war. They are then spun as demonic, diseased, etc. This film pulls no punches.
Parents of soldiers, other soldiers, and those against the war are spared. Republicans and war mongers are zombie bait. Fantastic!
This movie is strident and very angry. It is a call to arms for those who refuse to believe that this war is fought for good and that we truly support our soldiers. All people who say they "support the troops" should support them and see this film. It's also a good way for those of us who really hate this administration to see Falwell, Coulter, Rove, and McClellan get exactly what they deserve from the people they claim to love.

Watch this Space

I want to apologize to my myriad of fans. This site will be back on top with all your pop-culture needs very soon. I have been busy with things and had a little bit of the winter blahs. But, I promise that starting next week we will be back to my meth induced levels of two weekly columns. So, be patient. I have a lot to say.

The Greatest Song Lyric Ever

"Making there way/ The only way they know how/
But's that's just a little bit more/ Than the law will allow"
-Waylon Jennings "Good Old Boys"

Desperate Housewives

Okay, so I'm still watching Desperate Housewives. But, the first three episodes of this season were brutal. They were not funny, there was no through line, and all the characters were distortions of their first season selves. But, they took two weeks off and something happened. That something was Marc Cherry took back major writing duties. Almost the entire first season was written by him. This season he had a team of writers. Much in the way VC Andrews books drop off amazingly after "Flowers in the Attic", Desperate Housewives fell off as well. But, VC Andrews died and couldn't take back over. Marc Cherry has.
The show has started moving at a good pace, the Applewhite family has been integrated more into the plot. And, even with the staff, Cherry has decided to have a more involved hand in the development of scripts and plots.
Some people have a singular vision and they can shepherd a show. Joss Whedon, Alan Ball, and now Marc Cherry. But, this vision only works when the creator stays involved in the show. I'm personally begging Cherry to keep working hard.
But, with Desperate Housewives back on track I am hopeful for several things. The last episode was the best of the new season. There were cameos by classic soap actors (Linda Dano, Maree Cheatham), a stair fall miscarriage, and a murder on an overpass. Taking it back to the roots of soap opera and also playing with those roots. It was well done and made me feel like a soap opera watcher. And, I hope it bodes well for the rest of the season.
And, off topic. But, the Applewhite son not in the basement is HOT!!!! Hopefully, they're will be some jungle fever on the show.

Morning Bloody Television

So with my new life as a freelancer, part-time teacher, and all-around raconteur I have been spending a lot more time watching television in the morning. Everyone that knows me knows that I love television. A lot of it is crap, but some of the best is amazing. Television, unlike any other form, can sustain a story for years. Hour-long dramas can continue a neverending arc. Look at current shows like "Lost" and "Desperate Housewives" create stories that thread in and out and work at achieving tension and audience empathy. Former shows like "6ft Under" worked hard to create an almost novelistic approach and when it was over you felt like you had read a great sprawling novel like "The Corrections", "The Magnificent Ambersons", or "Fortress of Solitude". There are also sit-coms like "Scrubs" and "Arrested Development" that play with the form and change the expectations of viewers there are also traditional sit-coms like "King of Queens" and "Everybody Hates Chris" that are good by writing well and having good acting.
So, why did I just tell you all that? To lament the craptacular state of affairs that is morning television or to quote Patsy Stone from AbFab "morning bloody television". Man, it is bleak. Now "Ellen" is the exception. It is a fun talk show with a variety of guests and Ellen is really great at hosting a talk show. But, it is still a plain old show. There are trashy talk shows, decorating shows, and cooking shows. Now I enjoy Clean House for the sassiness of Niecy Nash, the only person to be in an Altman movie, Reno 911!, and to have her own Style Network TV show. But, so much of it annoying. I watch "The View" for the hot topics because I enjoy feeling like a housewife and I have a little crush on Meredith Viera. Too bad that Star Jones is possibly the most annoying woman in America.
All of this is leading to the ultimate trainwreck..."Starting Over". This is a reality show featuring women who need to, as the title says, Start Over. So, they have life coaches. Yeah, I want this job. You just tell people to get a job, love themselves, etc. And then the people get in touch with themselves and cry. It's like a sham of a real job. And, for me, there is nothing better than watching women with goals like "learn to love themselves", "create an identity away from husband", "repair broken relationships" try to achieve these goals. How do you achieve a goal that has no real answer?
Needless to say, "The View" is almost starting so I'll have to bid all of you adieu.

The Sad Ballad of Terrell Owens

This is just a quick little post. I'll have something longer later. But, I want to talk about the biggest wasted potential in football, Terrell Owens. He cannot play for the rest of the season. His team and fans of the team would rather lose than play with him. He has spent the past day apologizing and no one believes him. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus has dug a grave for Terrell and possibly for himself.
All season and for most of his career Terrell has lacked tact as much as he has had talent. His body is a muscular freak of nature. He is probably the best trained athlete and his body fat is something like negative 10. He could run, break tackles, and generally create scores. But, with his scoring came an almost deadly personality. His problems with others can go back to his troubled youth. But, that excuse stopped working this past season.
Not one person doubts his talent. Right now you are reading this sad post from a woman who loved his antics. When he took the pom-poms and celebrated, I told everyone how much I loved him. It's getting harder to say that.
I feel bad that he will never have the career he should have. Hopefully, the desperate antics of Drew Rosenhaus have ruined him. He is a cancer and does nothing but hurt his athletes. Congrats Drew, you blew it. Congrats Terrell, you ruined your life. Isn't football great?

New Look Knicks

Today I went to my first Knicks game of the season. Everything is being advertised as the "New Look Knicks". Excluding Stephon Marbury they are completely new look. They lost today in a heartbreaking game. They were down by 13, then went up by six, then down by five. They ended up losing by one basket. A heartbreaker. But, there were glimmers. In the standard Amy style, I will share my first thoughts about the Knicks.

• Stephon Marbury made some great plays. However, I'm not sure how long he will work with Larry Brown. I have the tradewatch starting ten games into the season.
• Eddy Curry could have a great season. He's a little chunkier than I like to see a basketball player, but he plays with heart, is super strong, and has good footwork for a big guy. He could make the leap this year. My hubby called him the new Larry Johnson. FYI- That's a compliment in this house.
• David Lee is a horrible shooter. That said, his smart plays, tough defense, and movement that make him useful on the court. He also had a monster dunk. And white guys dunking is always good for a few laughs.
• Nate Robinson is a rookie who has been in NYC all of five minutes. Yet, he has won over the city. He is one of the fastest players I've seen. In fact, he's way too fast for the Knicks. But, he moves, dunks, and makes smart passes. And, it seems like Larry Brown likes him. That's a good thing.
• And finally, Channing Frye is a tremendous player. He makes smart moves, is unselfish, and seems to find shots when needed. He is tall, thin, and graceful. He has a pretty good all-around game and after getting used to a pro season he could be a real breakout.

So, meet the Knicks! They might not be great this year. But, they seem poised to make the leap. Hopefully Larry stays long enough to help them.

Amy's Movie Reviews

I know, I know you're wondering, "Amy, why haven't you written many movie reviews? We know you love movies." Well, I haven't been seeing as many movies as I like. Sports, theater, and the stresses of work for me and Joe, the movies have been fewer. We're going to try to see a few this weekend and try to catch up. But, here are some reviews of the last few things I have seen.

• A History of Violence (dir. David Cronenberg) Formally structured this film is well made and acted well. Viggo Mortensen is sexy in an off kilter way. The story keeps you thinking. However, it's not that engaging. You feel distanced from the action. The message in the story and the formalism makes it critic bate. But, I don't think many people are going to really enjoy it.
• Wallace and Gromit: The Mystery of the Were-Rabbit (dir. Nick Park) So great. I love animation and especially animation that tries new things. Both stop motion and claymation add a layer of expressiveness that traditional and computer animation cannot touch. The story is very cute and funny. There are jokes for kids and adults and the rabbits are too cute. Check it out.
• Roll Bounce (dir. Malcolm Lee) I loved this movie! Corny and small in scope, the film delivers. Charlie Murphy and Mike Epps bring some nice comic touches and Chi McBride is great as the father who tries to hold on after the death of his wife. The film has a positive message and the skating and music are great. I think that Bow Wow is not much of an actual "actor", but he has real charisma on screen.
• Good Night and Good Luck (dir. George Clooney) George Clooney is my dream man; sexy, talented, an old school liberal and very funny. This film is a labor of love for him and it shows. He loves the news and reporting. I'm sure his dad had a lot to do with that. The film is shot is a no-frills black and white style. When you watch it, you feel like it was actually made in the 1950's. Not the greatest story, but an important one.
• Stay (dir. Marc Foster) An interesting and well-directed film. The plot will keep you guessing. I won't give anything away, but to say that you will have several reactions that you won't find out are wrong until the end. The acting is very good and the music will haunt you for days. I was a little disappointed in the ending. I wanted something a little more supernatural. However, worth checking out to give your brain a workout.

I hope that these reviews tide you over until I can come up with something else. I will also be writing about some of the crappy TV I've had to watch while I work part-time.

Shout Outs

Just back from a big night of comedy and standing in Times Square passing out fliers. But, I wanted to give some love to my homies. You can't see it but I just poured out my 40.

Congratulations on my sister and her new husband for tying the knot!
Happy 38th birthday Dale!
Happy 30th birthday to me.
Josh- thanks for helping me so much. Holla!

Soul Jazz Records

Soul Jazz Records, for those of you who might not know, is the go to label for self-loathing white hipsters. As a self-loathing white hipster I devour their collections. In the past year I've bought four and recently just bought three at once. I recommend these albums to anyone who enjoys soul music pre-1980.

Soul Gospel: A collection of religious themed songs recorded by religious artists (Della Reese, The Staples) or religious themed songs by secular artists (Aretha Franklin, Odette) The songs are really great and there are plenty of unknown artists for the casual listener. Quality music in a variety of styles.

Philadelphia Roots: A collection of pre-Gamble and Huff "Philly Sound" recordings. You can hear that disco and soul sound that Philly became famed for in its fetal stages. People's Choice has two songs on the compilation that really bounce. This is a CD perfect for parties and really gets your foot tapping.

The Chicago Sound: This is a compilation of music from Chess Records. Chess was a 1960's label focusing on blues/soul acts. Muddy Waters, Etta James, and lesser known artists are all on this compilation. After hearing Howlin' Wolf's "Evil" I'm amazed that Eric Clapton can act like he's an innovator. Many people will think this is a Cream outtake.

British Hustle: Did you know in England there was a whole disco revolution? I didn't. But, this compilation was filled with some really great music. Fans of modern deep house (MKL, Dimitri from Paris, Larry Levan) will enjoy the smooth singing and wonderful arrangements on this CD. The songs have a dance tempo but a laid back vibe.

Most of these CD's are available at your local snobby music store. They should also be found at www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.souljazzrecords.co.uk, and www.soundsoftheuniverse.com. Check any of their comps out, you will not be disappointed.

Football Notes

As football season gets close to the halfway mark I wanted to give a shout out to the Bengals! Wow, 5-1 and looking better every week. Carson Palmer is a great QB, but Chad Johnson has swagger and personality. These things were lacking for too long. The team is gelling and Marvin Lewis has been given time to make the team better. Kudos to Cincy for being patient and letting the team become winners. I see good things in their future.

The Pats don't look so great and their wins have looked meh to me. ESPN and the sports writers have been furiously trying to act like they are still good. The AFC is super strong this season and they look scared and falling apart. Maybe hobbits don't make such great coaches.

Although their records aren't great, Pittsburgh and San Diego are good teams that have tough losses and some really good wins. If they hit some lucky spots, they have a great chance to make some noise, but they have to stay healthy and really work on getting some wins.

Just started basketball tickets, I'll get to talking about those soon.

Upcoming Shows...

10/26 NY Comedy Club (24th Street and 2nd Avenue) 9pm
Industry Showcase Price TBA

Words of Wisdom

"Be a spirit, not a ghost" -Amiri Baraka in 'Bulworth'

Recommended Blogs

I'm still trying to learn html and how to paste. For now, here is a list of my favorite blogs:

http://blaggblogg.blogspot.com

http://trent.blogspot.com

http://noushineh.blogspot.com

http://joshthecomedian.blogspot.com

http://jackiecaldwell.blogspot.com

The Search for Authenticity

Most white girls between the ages of 12-17 goes through a few common phases. There is the vampire phase usually brought on by prolonged exposure to Anne Rice. Another literary phase is the V.C. Andrews phase where many girls discover dark, dangerous taboo sex for the first time. (Sofia Coppola's first film was a short called 'Lick the Star' based on a clique with an extreme love of V.C.'s work.) Most white girls also go through a folkie phase where they begin listening to James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, and Cat Stevens. Extra hip girls might also explore Nick Drake and Laura Nyro. The final phase is the one I want to focus on. It's the Janis Joplin phase.

To me, the Janis Joplin phase is the most interesting because it directly relates to the common white search for authenticity. The reason rap is purchased mainly by whites is that is poses as "real". Many whites feel they have no "real" to them. They are always looking for an experience to create a true self. Extreme sports are, to me, a manifestation of this. The reason rap/rock was so big for a time is that it helped whites add their own layer to a genre they coveted. Eminem is the ultimate distillation of this authenticity.

But, back to Janis Joplin. For many young white girls, she is as close to a soul sister as we are going to get. Her singing style is traditional. The screeching throws many off, but many of the female blues artists had a similar style. Joplin herself only listened to classic blues and jazz growing up. Her goal as an artist was to foster the blues in the 1960's. Check out Monterey Pop and see Otis blow the hippies minds while Janis nods and smiles. She already got it. For many, she became the bridge to the blues.

Every few years I check out my Janis CDs. I always feel like without her I never would have been inspired to check out Bessie Smith, Dinah Washington, Billie Holiday, Etta James, and many others. Janis helped me learn that the musical tree of rock has many roots.

Upcoming Shows

October 11th @ 7:30pm HA! Comedy Club
October 13th @ 7:30pm and 9:30pm HA! Comedy Club

Come on down and check it out!

Amy's Theory of Hip-Hop

Much like my theory of soap operas, I have a theory on why rap has always been stronger in certain areas and not in others.

The basic key to hip-hop is mixing. Mixing sounds, styles, people, etc. The reason it grew in New York is because NYC is one of the world's most diverse and mixed cities. Rap got played in Harlem, the Bronx, and downtown punk clubs. Artists like Blondie worked in the genre and used many of its sounds. The Tom Tom Club's "Genius of Love" is one of the most highly sampled songs ever. Two members of the art rock Talking Heads created that song.

I believe that areas with strong segregation either take longer to gain hip-hop (Chicago, Atlanta, Houston) or the areas are so sparsely populated that they never make any hip-hop of note.

Like NYC, Los Angels is a city with a variety of people, but it is more segregated therefore it took longer for rap to ferment there. The art of sampling means the DJ needs to know lots of music. The music needs to be mixed like the audience.

All of this trickles down to the fact that the vast majority of this country listens to music they could never create because they never mix with the other. To me, the real tragedy is that these people don't see what rap really brings and that is union. Like George Clinton said, "Free your kind and your ass will follow." If only the masses would listen.

I Apologize

Sorry about the size of the picture. I'm new to all this fancy computer stuff. I'm just a poor country lawyer.

From now on the blog will be updated twice a week. I hope you enjoy what you read.

Available for parties, bar mitzvahs, and no limit Texas hold 'em tournaments. 

The Last Few Movies I've Seen...

I can actually recommend. The end of summer was brutal with very little to see. However, I can recommend the last few films I've seen. And, I think things are going to get a lot better.

Recommended:
Grizzly Man- A very odd, closeted (possibly) hippie tries to get close to nature. Nature responds by eating him. Amazing footage of real nature, not sugar coated Discovery Channel crap. Werner Herzog directs the film very minimally, but his very German narration (where Timothy saw beauty and order in nature, I saw only death and chaos) is some of the funniest stuff in the movie. Also, two bears fight so hard that one of them takes a huge dump in the middle of the fight.

Broken Flowers- A slight story with some really great acting. Geoffrey Wright and Bill Murray need to make several films together, preferably as these characters. Their scenes are so well-acted and real that the rest of the movie is fine, not great. As all the women in his life Sharon Stone and Frances Conroy stand out. It's nice to see real women the lead actors own age engage in scenes together.

The 40 Year Old Virgin- So funny and a really well-written story. Wedding Crashers made me laugh, a lot. But, the 40 year old Virgin has heart and a nice story that bookends the jokes. The acting is great and Paul Rudd and Romany Malco shine as two of the friends. The physical humor is good, but the writing is also good. The scene involving Michael McDonald's concert footage is hilarious and sets the tone for this very funny movie.

Lord of War- Brooklyn Locales? Check! Interpol Agents? Check! Coke binges? Check! African Dictators? Check! Everything I want in a movie was here. There are funny scenes, but for the most part, this is a serious film about what goes on all over the world while we pretend it doesn't. Brutal in places and very sad in others. Many people in America should see this movie. It won't change the world, but it could change a person's mind.

An Open Letter to Missy Elliot

Dear Missy,
Holla! It's me Amy. I just wanted to write and let you know how I feel about your new album "The Cookbook". Girl, you know I love you. I have all your albums on my iPod. But, this new album is 50% good and 50% horrible. Now, everyone knows I love when hip-hop stretches. But, don't take this the wrong way...STOP SINGING!!!!!
When you make a club banger you are the tops. Your experimental sound, use of rhythm, and cutting edge guest stars make your songs ready for a spin. But, on your new album there is maybe five songs ready for the club (Partytime, Lose Control, We Run This, Mommy, and Bad Man) and these five songs tear the roof off. "Bad Man" is a dancehall classic and featuring new grime mistress M.I.A. was a typically savvy move.
But, songs about cheating and your man and sex, that is not what your fans want Missy. I'm sorry. Most of your fans like the bangers. I like bangers! Please stop trying to be the Queen of the Quiet Storm. Be the queen of dance, your rightful throne.

Sincerely,
Amy

All She Ever Wanted

So, I have some actual articles I want to write. But, I'm starting with this frothy brew. I watched possibly one of the most bizarre Lifetime movies I have ever seen. The film was titled "All She Ever Wanted" and features James Marshall (post Twin Peaks, Few Good Men, Gladiator) and Marcia Cross (at her Kimberly Shaw apex).
So, the movie is about a couple who want a child. The wife (La Cross) is severely bi-polar and takes lithium. She decides to go off of lithium to have a child. I will just briefly say that shenanigans ensue. She's manic and sexy and painting. She's depressed and mopey and wearing a big sweater. It's an amazing job. And, like most husbands in Lifetime films this one is completely ill equipped to do anything other than stammer and try to talk her down. The film is extremely convoluted for a one hour and 45 minute movie. La Cross is hospitalized, forced on a feeding tube, almost forced to have an abortion, flashes back to her younger brother's drowning, and in the end loses her baby and goes back on lithium. Wow.
So, I started watching for La Cross and stayed for the bi-polar. I was not disappointed. Marcia Cross gave her typical demented and OTT performance that somehow works. But, the movie was just so bizarre and random that it in no way helps someone understand mental illness. It does however shed light on big sweaters as appropriate attire in a loony bin.

Upcoming Amy Events (mark your calendars)

Friday September 30th at 7pm Comedy Cellar (Bleeker Street in the Village, off of W. 4th)
To RSVP call Erik at 646-296-9576
5 bucks and two drinks!

Saturday October 1st at 5:30pm UCB Theater (26th Street and 8th Ave., near Gristedes)
No RSVP
5 bucks and drinks are up to you!

Wednesday October 5th at 7pm Laugh Lounge (151 Essex Street, LES)
Call Club for Reservations 212-614-2500
Price TBD!

Hilarity and shenanigans are sure to ensue.

Katrina Fatigue

Between the fundraiser and toys program I have not had a lot of time to write. I will have some stuff soon. Tragedy, real ones, make it hard for me to write. But, I'll be back in the saddle next week.

I Just Wanna Celebrate (Another Day of Living)

6ft. Under ended last night. Possibly my favorite show of the past five years (excluding Scrubs and Arrested Development) followed a group of flawed and incredibly realistic people. I am still sad and a little teary from last night's final episode. I just wanted to share a few thoughts in my ever popular bullet point style. I feel that this show will be greatly missed and that television might not ever do better to me.

Thoughts:

• So, David finally learns to love himself the way Keith has always loved him.
• I applaud the show for its attitude about adoption. It can be hard, but the process is probably the most rewarding thing you'll do.
• Anthony and Durrell ended up being the Sons of "Fisher and Sons". And they both ended up as happy as their dads.
• The new American family is gay, minority, multi-marriage, and not vanilla.
• Claire's blindness at the end was nicely forshadowed by the use of the show "Just Shoot Me" (about fashion photography) and the song "Doctor my Eyes".
• Billy finally talked Brenda to death, and the humor of her death was a nice palette cleanser.
• Keith's death was tragic, but he got his dream of his own security company and had many years to have the family he always wanted.
• The ambiguity of the ending helped so that we could create our own stories for the character and for the characters whose names were not in the lead credits.
• Claire's journey was the essence of the show and her changes were always real and always funny.
• I will probably have more later, but this ending had a roomful of adults sobbing last night. I felt like the show gave me everything I wanted, including a weird Peter Krause music video.

Go Ask Alice

So, kids are getting their required reading and several schools are requiring "Go Ask Alice" by Anonymous (aka Beatrice Sparks, RN). This book was dated when I read it. Full disclosure, the reason I hate hippies is that I used to be one. Not a dirty hippie, just a generic peace and love and classic rock hippie. So, I read "Go Ask Alice" because it was about a square girl who becomes a hippie acid freak.
So, the whole gimmick of the book was that this girl who became a drug addict and dealer and delinquent tried to get her life together and then ended up relapsing. She died and we all go to read her "found" diary. I later found out through various sources that "Go Ask Alice" was a completely fictional book written by a nurse to keep kids off drugs.
I picture kids in Harlem who are being assigned this book basically laughing and saying "crazy white girl" as they try to understand the dated slang, descriptions, and various old fashioned drugs. It seems like the dumbest book to read. But, don't get me started on the school that had "Flowers in the Attic" on their required reading list.

The Smells of Summer

I have the distinct pleasure of working in Harlem in the summer. The thing that really sets it all off nicely, not the fat Spanish guys in tank tops, is the smell. Because Harlem is a (cough,cough) under-served neighborhood, the trash usually forms into a nice living sculpture. And, with the heat languishing at the stately 170 degrees its been for the past few weeks, the garbage is fermenting on schedule.
The mix of Chinese, chicken, and fast food, mixed with diapers, old milk, and other garbage stand-bys has made this a summer my olfactory senses could not have imagined.
Whiff it, it's the smell of summer.

Recommended Reading

I just thought I would place a small list (5) of books that I've read over the past year that have been really great.

Jonathan Lethem The Fortress of Solitude
Curtis Sittenfield Prep
JK Rowling Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Charles Barkley Who's Afraid of a Large Black Man?
Jonathan Leland Hip: A History

Songs I Wish Were Written About Me...

I Need Love (LL Cool J)- The ultimate couple's skate song at the roller rink. A heartfelt and touching song. To be the girl that could melt a tough guy's heart so thoroughly, is an amazing thing.

Something/Layla (George Harrison/Eric Clapton)- A 2 for 1. Who wouldn't want to be Patti Hansen getting two songs written about them? And, two amazing songs written about them? Two really great songs in totally different styles.

Lay Lady Lay (Bob Dylan)- Dylan is the ultimate "hey babe, I wrote this song just for you" guy. But what girl wouldn't melt to "his clothes are dirty but his hands are clean/ and your the best thing that he's ever seen"?

When I Fall in Love (it will be forever) (Stevie Wonder)- Stevie wrote a lot of really beautiful songs and My Cherie Amour is just as good, but nothing makes me swoon like this one.

Wild Horses (Jagger/Richards)- This also ties with Beast of Burden. The Stones wrote some amazingly misogynistic songs like "Brown Sugar" and "Under my Thumb" but this one is a beauty and the lyrics with Mick's fake black dude voice is stunning.

Tiny Dancer (Bernie Taupin)- A song about a groupie. But, the best groupie. The lyrics are not really romantic, but the feeling the song evokes makes you want to be this girl.

Real Sports...

I need real sports. I HATE baseball. Basketball, Soccer, Football, Tennis, The Olympics. All of these are so much better than baseball. In fact, to me baseball is a series of skills. You only have to be good at one of them. Pitchers are not expected to hit, the good hitters with bad bag skills are sent to the outfield, and base players have to be average at everything. So, yawn, I'm already tired of talking about this.

I also feel that golf is a series of skills that are needed, as is NASCAR, but neither is really a sport, I compare them to pool, darts, poker, spelling bees, World's Strongest Man Competitions, and the like. These are all skills that win prizes not actual sports.

The Most Awesome News!!!

So, I'm starting a HILARIOUS new web page for all your Amy needs.

http://www.geocities.com/amypatrick/AmyPatrick.html


Check it Out kiddies!

Best Music Videos...Ever...

So, I was thinking about this on my way to work today. Here's a list of, to me, the best music videos ever. I will put the bands name and the song and the director if I know it.

• Closer NIN Dir. Mark Romanek
• Criminal Fiona Apple Dir. Mark Romanek
• Praise You Fatboy Slim Dir. Spike Jonze
• Sabatoge Beastie Boys Dir. Spike Jonze
• Bittersweet Symphony The Verve Dir. Walter Stern
• Freedom 90 George Michael Dir. David Fincher
• High and Dry Radiohead Dir. Jamie Thaves
• You Did it to Yourself Dir. Jamie Thaves
• It's Oh So Quiet Bjork Dir. Spike Jonze
• California Love Dr. Dre/Tupac Dir. Hype Williams
• All About the Benjamins(remix) Dir. Spike Jonze
• Stan Eminem Dir. Phillip Atwell
• Fly Foo Fighters Dir. Michele Gondry
• What's My Name? Snoop Dogg Dir. Dr. Dre
• 99 Problems Jay Z Dir. Mark Romanek

Everything I Need to Know About Life...

I learned from Martin Scorsese.

• The smallest guy in the room is the one with the most issues, don't mess with him unless you want a shot to the knee or a pen to the neck.
• If you hear the strains of Eric Clapton...run away something bad is going to happen, probably to you.
• In fact, also be on the look out for "All Along the Watchtower" by Jimi Hendrix. Nothing good ever came of that song either.
• Heroes are tragically flawed and need a strong dose of Catholic redemption.
• Life is full of compromise and you will be forced to make those compromises.
• Everyone should have a colorful nickname.
• Whether you are the Dalai Lama, Howard Hughes, a low level thug, or coke head, the course of true love will not run smooth. In fact, most people will break your hearts.

What have you learned from Martin Scorsese?

Sandra Day O'Connor

The Honorable Sandra Day O'Connor has just retired from the Supreme Court. O'Connor is the first female jusge on the Supreme Court and is probably the most legally savvy. She was never one to write opinions or dissents, but many times her vote was 5-4 winner that was needed. O'Connor was a classic conservative and followed the rule of law. Following law creates ones beliefs to fall into line with moral relativism. Unfortunately, many Christian Consveratives do not undertsand this.
O'Connor never legislated her values from the bench. She believed in the Constitution as a valueable part of our lives, but as also a living document that did not die in 1776 and was not the sole province of the founding fathers.
All of us should remember O'Connor for her hard work on hard issues. As we slip farther away from other nations and closer to our "enemies" in theocracies, I hope all involved in the choosing of her replacement remember this.
And Gonzalez is Spanish for "Souter". Keep your fingers crossed.

I Rarely,,,

I rarely talk about myself in these posts because I'm pretty sure noone cares about me, they just love my doggy style.
But, things are starting to heat up outside and for me. By this October I will either take a leave of absence from the library or I will just leave the library to focus on my writing and my comedy. Joe is probably the most supportive man in the world and I thank him for letting me take this chance. We'll see what happens.
I'll be back with more pop culture stuff soon.

Hilarity Ensuing Soon!

So-
I'm trying to put together an actual show in Brooklyn. I want to do something that feeds off of the vibe at the Village Lantern. We'll see. If any comics in NYC read this blog and want to help me get this started, let me know.
An actual post talking about something coming soon.

Destiny's Child R.I.P.

So, Destiny's Child has officially broken up and this tour is their last. They said they wanted to end on an up note. And, I actually believe them. Unlike, The Supremes, who they are always compared to there are several differences:

• Beyonce is a stronger singer than Diana Ross and is as good of an actress. Luckily her big movie musical moment coming in 2006 is better suited to her age than The Wiz was for Dirty Diana.
• Michelle Williams and Kelly Rowland have made more money independent of the band than Mary Wilson or Flo Ballard ever did. They have done films, theater, and solo albums.
• The Knowles family is not Berry Gordy and have a much better reputation for their client management and not known to steal money.

So, I wish them the best. I am a huge fan. In fact I just got my tickets for Madison Square Garden in July. I will be there wishing them luck.

Underrated Bands

So, here's the deal. I am looking just at the talent in the band. Units sold or lyrical content does not matter. Some of these bands are huge, but never got respect but others were genre or small niche markets. These are five that I think may be the most underrated.

In No Particular Order:
Duran Duran- Their new romantic look and really dumb songs (Rio anyone?) made them seem like dumb preening boys. But, they had some really tight music and John Taylor was a really good guitarist. The production of Nile Rodgers gave them a dance sheen and enhanced their sound. The drum line in "Wild Boys" is propulsive and well done. Listen to them again without the 1980's baggage and the videos.

AC/DC- Talk about lyrical content sinking a groups standing. If AC/DC had decided to talk about something other than rocking, drinking, and pussy the musicianship of the band would have mattered. Angus Young is possibly the the greatest guitarist ever, certainly from Australia. He knew when to shred and when to just play solid support. Both Bryan Johnson and Bon Scott had voices that made you forget how dumb the lyrics were.

The Staple Singers- Working in a genres that usual get no respect for their guitar, soul and gospel, Pops Staple was one of the best soul guitarists ever. Excluding Curtis Mayfield, calm down people. Their big break to the pop charts never really happened so they never got the fan base they should have. The band as a whole was amazingly tight and their uplifting lyrics and beautiful singing of Mavis Staple has made them my Sunday morning staple (ha ha) for years.

Chic- Disco sucks. Possibly the most racist and homophobic statement uttered in defense of rock. Chic had great vocals and Nile Rodgers, but most importantly it had Bernard Edwards on bass. His beats and the break on "Good Times" made this band one of the most important to the rise of hip-hop. They also knew that disco could have "real" music and not just rely on studio tricks. Their songs were easy to sing along to and I bet right now your thinking about clams on the half shell and rollerskates...rollerskates.

Motley Crue- Vince Neil's voice and Tommy Lee's penis almost kept them off the list. However, the stellar play of Nikki Sixx and Mick Mars got them on here. Like AC/DC they had a shortage of lyrics you would call "intelligent", but they had a sense of fun and real talent. If they hadn't pissed it all away they might have done something. Bob Rock honed their admittedly sloppy sound and made their records almost as good as T-Rex. Yeah, I said it.

Upcoming Amy Events

This Week....

Tuesday at 8pm Village Lantern (hopefully) 167 Bleeker Street (btwn' Sullivan and Thompson)

Wednesday at 6pm Ha! Comedy Club 369 west 46th Street (near 9th Ave.)

Hopefully more to come!

Websites I Love

Here are a few of the websites I love to look at or have entertained me.

http://www.blackpeopleloveus.com

http://www.theonion.com

http://www.sportsguy.net

http://www.viceland.com

http://www.televisionwithoutpity.com

Enjoy them all. Any suggestions? Add a comment.

I Haven't Forgotten About You...

My little chicklets, I have not forgotten about you. But, I have been super busy. I am currently doing the work thing and stand-up twice a week. Soon to be more. When I have information about it, I'll let you know.

But....upcoming

June 2nd at 6-8pm
NY Comedy Club
(24th Street and 2nd Avenue)
Be there!!!!!