Backyard Reclamation Project

I've been meaning to write about this for awhile, but wanted to attach all the photos I've got before I did. Now that I've finally uploaded the pictures to Picassa, here's the post.


Picture of spiders in my backyard.

So, my backyard is a jungle. It's fairly large, with a gentle inclining slope from the house to the property line, filled with tall, old trees, and covered in English Ivy. Ivy is really great for those who don't want to have to take care of their yards. It is not so good for people with young children who are bizarrely paranoid of their children getting bitten by snakes or spiders.

Pocket Review: "Apples & Eve" by Neulore

Nashville-based Neulore's first EP "Apples & Eve" is the sort of opening statement that most bands would kill for. It's expansive, thought-provoking, and honest, a concept album that never strays too far from the concept but which never bludgeons the listener with the message. Ostensibly a love letter from Adam to Eve, the record wanders the paths where intense love can lead: heartbreak, anger, and salvation.

The EP begins with the gorgeous "I Will Come Alone" which blossoms from a piano-based folk rock tune into shimmering waves of prog rock. Adam is alone, and the wonder of the new world he's inherited--and the constant presence of God--fill him with color and beauty and life. He is entertained but lonely.

"Eve" fades in from the last gasps of "I Will Come Alone" and proceeds to dominate the record from the first notes. It is the most maturely produced of the seven tracks, and shows how developed the band truly is. It also introduces the character which will ultimately weigh so heavily in Adam's life, his bride and co-conspirator, Eve.

New Fiction over at Dog Eat Crow Magazine

I've posted a new, brilliant, short short fiction over at DEG Magazine. The auhtor is Randy Lowens, and the story is very nice. I think you'll like it.

For those of you too lazy to click the link for DECM on the side bar, you can click here.