Monday, November 2, 2009

Victor Shabekov – Dreaming of Sunset’s Sea 4 (Free Set Download)

rall vibe.
I’m dreaming, are you?


01. Giuseppe Ottaviani – Angel (Sea Intro Edit)
02. Chicane – Poppiholla (Single Edit)
03. Chris Lake – Only One (Original Mix)
04. Dash Berlin with Cerf, Mitiska & Jaren – Man On The Run (Nic Chagall Remix)
05. Allure feat. Julie Thompson – Somewhere Inside (Andy Duguid Remix)
06. Dobenbeck feat. Joanna – Please Don’t Go (Chris Reece Remix)
07. Sunlounger – Punta Galera
08. Gianluca Motta feat. Molly – Not Alone (Deadmau5 Remix)
09. EDX – Shy Shy (Extended Vocal Mix)
10. Cosmic Gate feat. Emma Hewitt – Not Enough Time (Extended Mix)
11. Starkillers – Bitch Ass Trick (Austin Leeds’s Seamless Afterhours Mix)
12. Swen Weber – The Pusher (Chris Reece Remix)

Click here to download Dreaming of Sunset’s Sea 4

For more Victor Shabekov info, mixes, and productions check out:

Cliffy Burrows – Uplifting Rhythm (Free Set Download)

Digitized Recordings DJ/Producer Cliffy Burrows was nice enough to treat us with a 2 hour promo mix featuring 20 hot new Trance & Progressive tracks. Download it for free here!

Cliffy Burrows – Uplifting Rhythm

01 Ferry Tayle & Manuel Le Saux – Roma Airport (Ferry Tayle Universal Language Remix) [Music Worx]
02 Above & Beyond – Anjunabeach [Anjunabeats]
03 State Of Matter & Luke Terry pres. Surrogate Saviour – Radiance (Chris Turner Remix) [Unearthed Red]
04 TrancEye – Melodramatic (Sulaco Remix) [Crystal Cloud Recordings]
05 Guy Mearns – Impulses (Original Mix) [Nu Depth Digital]
06 ID – ID [Artist CDR]
07 Sean Truby – Unreal (Activa Remix) [Red Force Recordings]
08 Defcon Audio – Theme From Defcon (Sulaco Remix) [Defcon]
09 Simon Patterson – Always (Original Mix) [Reset Records]
10 Simon Hunt – White Island (Original Mix) [Conspiracy Recordings]
11 Gaia – Tuvan (Andy Blueman Remix) [Armind]
12 Matt Skyer – Yearning [Emphase Recordings]
13 Matt Skyer – Canberra [Emphase Recordings]
14 Akesson – Without You (Original Mix) [FSOE]
15 Defcon Audio – Trailblazer (Ronny K Emotion Remix) [Defcon]
16 Braincreator – Red Octopus (Matt Skyer Remix) [Blue Trance Records]
17 Activa – Transmission (Original Mix) [Discover]
18 Ally Brown – Teardrops In Fire (Wyse & Brown Remix) [Android]
19 Trance Arts – Victory Of Sound [Artist CDR]
20 Pulsedriver – Kiss That Sound (Club Mix) [Aqualoop Records]

MHV’s New Dubstep Set for Free Download

Dubstep set for free download at Nimbo

Playlist:

01. Squarepusher – Abacus 2
02. Various Production – Bside
03. Mayhem – Split second (scuba remix)
04. MHV – Mutilator v8
05. MHV/Orvonton – Sueño (MHV remix)
06. Jack sparrow – The fullest feat Biggings
07. Ramadanman & Appleblim – Justify
08. MHV – Vloop Q
09. King Cannibal – So… embrace the minimum
10. MHV – Vapor
11. Debruit – Soles sweat feat 215tfk & Stray (Reso remix)
12. 2562 – Third wave
13. Untold – Dante
14. Millie & Andrea – Temper tantrum
15. Unique 3 – Take this love (Milanese remix)
16. Jakes – Custard cream
17. Joker & Jakes – 3k lane
18. Bar 9 – Triple drop
19. MHV – Frozen donut (version)
20. Kupa – All those momentes
21. Mekha & The root – The dark passenger
22. Chase and status – Eastern Jam
23. Autechre – Cfern

You can download the set directly at the following link – Nimbo podcast 06 – Mixed by MHV

Oliver Caine – Techno Set (Free Download)

Oliver Caine is a Techno/Tech-House/Minimal DJ/Producer as well as a drummer and bass player from Washington D.C.
You can download his latest Techno set which he describes as “Down & Dirty Techno” right here.


LCD Soundsystem’s New Single Download

LCD Soundsystem were supposed to release their cover to Alan Vega’s song “Bye Bye Bayou” at the 2009 Record Store Day on November 7th. However, the single leaked online last week and the attention it drew caused the group to offer it as a free download on their official site.

Bye Bye Bayou

Starting today, October 23rd, they are offering the new single as a free download on their official website,
The track is available at Lcdsoundsystem.com to the first 20,000 downloads so make sure you won’t miss it. “Bye Bye Bayou” will also be released digitally on November 24th.

Official website

The third LCD Soundsystem album is due for release in March next year.

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button by: Patrick Daniels


The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a poignant interweaving story about love, adversity and affliction. The story, based on F. Scott Fitzgeralds delightful tale, centers around an early 20th century man who is inexplicably born as a feeble, stout man in his 80s and ages backwards.

Its good luck for Benjamin that he is found by Queenie, played by Tarajii Henson, at her boarding home's doorstep. Naturally he is thought to have insurmountable birth defects, so he is abandoned there when he is born. Queenie is in charge of the senior home, and Benjamin's issues and different color from her own don't slow her down from adopting him. The fact that she will never have her own children must surely have weighed on this decision. Benjamin is living as an old man with the other old people at the home. The day he he happens to meet Little Daisy is the beginning of a long,complicated love story. Daisy is played later all grown up by Cate Blanchett.

Directed by David Fincher, who successfully directed Pitt in Seven and Fight Club, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button superbly unravels the difficulty in sustaining love against incongruent biological circumstance.With stunning cinematography and outstanding aging visual effects and makeup, the film is visually by far one of the most accomplished technical masterpieces of the year. Eric Roth, writer of both Forrest Gump and Munich, is effective in writing a screenplay that cleverly juxtaposes 20th Century flashbacks with 21st Century events. The talent in this film is undeniable and has garnered well deserved Oscar nominations in Best Picture, Actor, Supporting Actress and Directing categories.

Movie lovers are going to go nuts for the two disc special edition of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button that has been released.The Criterion Collection is the best at DVD distribution without a doubt. For classic and contemporary films such as this one, between the packaging, extras and DVD quality, you won't find better.

Although the double DVD is incredibly packed with goodies, you can also get a single disc packaged with some nice features of its own. There is always the hi definition option in crystal clear Blu-Ray. This movie is so collectible that it doesn't matter what format you get it in, just get it!

The Curse Goes On In Grudge 3 DVD by: Patrick Daniels


The Grudge continues! On May 12, 2009 The Grudge 3 was released as a direct to DVD movie. This is the most recent release of the Grudge series. Takashi Shimizu is the producer instead of directing as he did in the original Grudge and The Grudge 2. Toby Wilkins did the directing job this time. Ju-On, written by Shimizu, is the original Japanese film that The Grudge is based on. He and screenwriter Brad Keene both worked on the writing of this film. Brad Keene is known for writing "Gravedancers" and "From Within".

Set in Chicago only a short while after the action takes place in Grudge 2, the story continues. Young Allison brought the curse with her from Tokyo. Running away did not help end the torture. Now we have Jake Kimball, lone survivor from Grudge 2, Locked up in a mental institution. Dr Ann Sullivan, acted by Shawnee Smith, is taking care of him.

Jake tries to confide in Dr. Sullivan about his family, but his story is too fantastic and horrible for her to accept as truth. She changes her mind after Kayako, from the other two Grudge films, invisibly goes after him.

Naoko, Kayako's sister, is still living in Japan. While reading a newspaper she finds out about all the stuff happening in the U.S. Naoko knows what to do about the deadly curse. She can, after all this time, make it stop. She is determined to go to America and do her best to end the reign of terror.

She journeys to the Chicago apartment from the Grudge 2. There she meets the landlord and his children. The youngest child Rose she realizes can communicate with the dead. Meanwhile the curse is tormenting the landlord and his family who have become close to Naoko, especially the older daughter Lisa.

Naoko figures out how to end the curse. Little Rose must drink blood from Kayako during an exorcism. The exorcism goes on but Naoko is killed. Rose and Lisa's father, who has become steadily more insane, murders her as the exorcism is happening. Although they managed to end the curse, another one is born out of the violent end to Naoko.

For anyone who was into the Grudge series, this movie is a must see. The previous movies left some mystery that this one concludes. It also feels like the chance of more stories are possible.

How Could Chickenfoot Possibly Not Rock! by: Patrick Daniels


Representations of Rock, also known as: Hagar, Van Halen, Chili Peppers, and Satriani. What happens when you put these rock monsters in the same sandbox? Out pops Chickenfoot. Sammy Hagar is the mad scientist behind this idea. As if he wasn't busy enough playing guitar, writing music and singing vocals.

Although he did sing with Van Halen for a while, Hagar is primarily well known as a solo rocker. Chickenfoot is not his first grouping of super rockers. Hagar, Shon, Aaronson, and Shrieve, known as HSAS was brought together by him in the mid-eighties. Although these guys were from such greats as Santana and Foghat, Chickenfoot is far and away more exciting than that crew.

Hagar pilfered bassist Michael Anthony from Van Halen. From The Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer, Chad Smith jumped ship. And lastly his highness of the guitar, Joe Satriani. This first album spins out awesome rock talent tempered with an easy vivaciousness.

After all this time in the business these guys know how to stay light and have a good time. The excellent sound and danceable beat really work on "Sexy Little Thing" and "Oh Yeah". It makes you want to hop up and do some wigglin".

Chad Smith's extra large personality and his supercharged energy move his drumming into convulsive, eruptive power, according to Joe Satriani. The drums forcefully nail the muscular vocals and the wailing guitar tightly together.

Chickenfoot, released June 5, 2009, is musical attunement at its most powerful. This is not Chili Peppers, Van Halen or even a Satriani album. These rockers have blended their styles successfully. If you liked them separately then you will appreciate what they have made together.

Big" News For Fat Freddy's Fans by: Patrick Daniels


The New Zealand band, Fat Freddy's Drop, has a unique sound with a blend of Jazz, Reggae, and Hi Tek Soul. Since their debut album in 2005, they have continued to soar to stardom and have toured the globe three times.

The release of Dr. Boondigga & the Big BW was an anticipated album with high hopes. With its electric collection of songs, with a story, meditative pieces and pieces that are fun, it was well worth the wait. Fan will be able to hear the maturity and life experiences in Fat Freddy's Drop new album, as their music is evolving for the the better.

The song Pull the Catch was actually a song that they wrote while fishing with Dallas uncle. They left in the morning to fish and by the time they returned they were singing this song, and they recorded the demo for it that very same day. The Nod is actually a New Orleans Flavoured song that was inspired by the communal flat that some of the band stayed in about ten years ago. It has a party vibe and is completely entertaining.

My most favourite track on the album is "Big BW" with its tame and meditative sound, that touches you in a way today's music is unable to. However, it in no way, takes anything from the other title track "Boon Digger". With it's vocals from Dallas and deep lyrics it is the perfect compliment to the it's mellower counterpart "Big BW".

This second album shows more of the bands true self, then their first release, and is a more deeper, soulful collection; a must have for all Jazz fans. This is an album that you should definitely check out, even if you never heard of the band. Oh and the album cover have amazing detail, definitely worth the look!

New Album, Same Style, PSB "Yes" by: Patrick Daniels


With more then 50 million worldwide record sales since 1986, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe have carried their English, electronic dance music duo through over two decades of success. This success continues to their latest album, Yes, which has everything fans have grown to love. It is filled with innovative artistry and has an excellent commercial appeal that makes "Yes" full of potential hits. Chris Lowe also returns in this album, which is something that the PSB have been missing.

Whether you are a long time fan of the PSB or this is the first album you have decided to try, you will be able to notice the large amount of insight into the music industry that this duo posses. With tracks like cool dance "Love Etc" directed to the socialite crowd, to the ballad "Beautiful People" there is something for all types of music lovers.

In the usual PSB tone that you would expect are the sneaky hidden undertones and covert social comments that the fans expect. The great thing about the Pet Shop Boys is there way of conveying their messages in such a way as to be equally as pleasing to both liberal and conservative listeners. Like in Building a Wall where it refers to not so much to keep you out/more to keep me in this could convey a message of immigration or one of intimacy or can just make for nice listening for those who aren't looking for anything more.

"Pandemonium" is one of my favorite tracks on the album. It is an incredible mix of disco that has a primal feel and takes you back to the head banger days.

Yes is super concentrated with everything there is to enjoy about PSB. It is danceable, yet everyday pop, with a combination of warmth and irony that makes Yes a must have for any Pet Shop Boys fan or anyone who enjoys good pop music.

How To Know If He's Just Not That Into You by: Patrick Daniels


From the preview, you may think that this is a "Chick Flick". Women want to run and see, men want to run in the opposite direction towards the Transformer movie. Although the movie is about relationships, and the unspoken rejections that go along with dating it has the humor and cast for both men and women.

Some of the top name actors in this film include, Jennifer Aniston, Ben Affleck and Drew Barrymore. Barrymore is the star of the film and gives us one of the films most hysterical lines about being rejected through 7 different technologies. The humorous part, would have to be the truth behind the statement!

The great things was that in addition to the humor, making light of sometimes awkward situations and painful dating issues, there was an underlying understanding to it all that struck home as more of relationship advice then something that you would find in a sitcom. However humorous each situation was it was addressed with a certain amount of compassion and understanding that can only come from someones own real life experiences. The quality of acting was good and although Aniston is not amazing, she pulls off her role in this film pretty well, and her and Affleck work well together so it is nice to see them paired up.

The film is based on a book, by Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo. The adaptation of the book onto the big screen was a great way to allow people to laugh at their dating follies, or to just enjoy a romantic comedy that their husbands or boyfriends will not complain about afterwards.

This is the type of movie you will want to see again and again. This DVD will provide you with a good chuckle again and again. I have watched it three times and got just as many laughs the last time around as the first.

Black Eyed Peas The E.N.D. CD:Just The Beginning by: Patrick Daniels


The Black Eyed Peas just released their latest, fifth album to mixed reviews, perhaps because some fans have now gotten away from the music of the BEP's and perhaps because they have gotten to listen to Fergie on her own, a few people were disappointed in this album, however it must be said that this seems to be some of their best collaborative work to date.

The new album brings us a familiar sound, with new dance tracks. Although there is a similarity in the sound you will not be disappointed as the lyrics can range from moving beats to just plain bizarre.

Their latest album, entitled The E.N.D. (which stands for Energy Never Dies) is full of fifteen tracks from hip hop to booty shaking. It provides more of a party tune then previous albums and will have everyone on the dance floors, even those who do not like to dance.

With so many great tracks on this album, there are sure to many top 40 hits just in time for the summer party season. You will most likely hear these songs while laying on your beach blanket, at the local pool or blaring from the car next to you at a stop light. If you have heard their first album release single Boom Boom Pow, you have only heard a sampling of what the album has to offer.

The energy, enthusiasm and intoxication of this group makes it difficult to believe that they anyone could think that this band was going anywhere but up, up, up. Their funky sounds stolen from music from the past and today, is what keeps the band so fresh with a constantly changing look and sound that keeps fans begging for more and more. A little quirky and a little odd, this album is all that you would expect from the Black Eyed Peas and more. If you have been a fan of their music, then you will be nothing but pleased with their latest and best work The E.N.D..

You'll Watch the Watchmen Over and Over by: Patrick Daniels


Watchmen, was one of those film that I had no intention of seeing. My friends were all going and I decided to join, but ave never heard of the film, now I am glad I made that decision. It was such a great movie that I am not only anxiously awaiting the DVD release, later in the month, I have already pre-ordered it!

The movie is based on the graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. The story takes place in an alternate 1985, where the Cold War is still going strong and Richard Nixon is still president. This profound movie features a rich plot, with many levels, including good vs.evil, internal conflict and corruption of those with power.

This is more then just a comic book made into a movie, it is a comic placed on the big screened and mixed with edge of your seat action. Watchmen was also geared towards a more mature audience, unlike other comic book movies, which gives them a chance to add a little more flavor to their action scenes.

The extra DVD features have not been released yet, but what we do know is that there is said to be a total of, at least 2 hours. It has also been rumored that there is an ultimate edition in the works that will be following the release. This DVD will include different versions of the movie.

Now this DVD is already scheduled for release in the US on July 27, 2009, but the good news is that you can pre-order it, even the Blu-ray edition, which means that you will have it sent to you as soon as they are out. Doing this insures that you wont have to risk heading to the store to get it only to find that they are out of stock. This is a great action flick and one you should definitely see, or see again.

Flight Of the Conchords Season 2 DVD On Sale Now!!! by: Patrick Daniels


Fans of the hit show Flight of the Conchords will be happy to hear that the release of season 2 on DVD will be here August 4th. For those of you that have not seen an episode, I am here to tell you a little something about this absolutely funny and unique show, that will have you wanting more after watching one episode.

It is a show that follows the life of Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie, a two man digi-folk band from New Zealand. The two move to New York City for a chance for fame and each show focuses on the trials and tribulations that they face along the way, in a very hysterical manner.

Now, although I thoroughly enjoyed the first season and laughed hysterically at all the songs, I sometimes felt that they were far from the plot and just thrown into the story. This was not the case with the second season of the show, making it a smoother and more enjoyable viewing experience, for me anyway. The songs in season 2 were written specifically for the story lines and fit well with the plots for each show.

This show is an HBO favorite and has excellent ratings as the subtle humor mixed with the occasional improv from the duo, has fans rolling over with laughter. The release date for the second season on DVD was scheduled even before the first episode aired, having many fans waiting a long time for their copies to arrive in the mail.

Plus it is great to have the shows you love on DVD so you can watch them over and over, but also so you get all those extras from the show that you don't get on live TV. This DVD is jam packed with extras like 23 minutes of deleted scenes, 8 minutes of outtakes, some Dave's Pawn Shop commercials and a 30 minute bonus: Flight of the Conchords, Taking Off. The addition of these extras makes this DVD definitely worth the buy.

La Roux New Synth Pop Duo and Their Self Titled First CD by: Patrick Daniel


The latest band to enter into the pop scene is La Roux, pronounced La Roo. They are a synth duo band that is made up of an eccentric women with a dramatic flare, Elly Jackson and a man that up until late he was content with playing a background role, Ben Langmaid. Many of the album track are written by Jackson about her 5 year on again off again relationship, and together they attribute much of their musical influence to 80's pop band like Human League, Blancmange, Yazoo and Heaven 17.

The very first album release is a self entitled album that has all the sounds of an 80's synth pop band and some of the 80's look as well. No matter what the look their sound is still extremely impressive.

It is always a risk purchasing an album from a new band, but I can honestly say that this album is worth it. I can also assure you that this will not be the last you will be hearing from this duo, as it seems the times are changing and we are moving back to the sounds and looks of the 80's.

Two of my favorite tracks, on the album are Quicksand and Bullet Proof. I do wish, however that Langmaid would make himself more noticeable, as it seems like there is a single performer in the group. Since Langmaid has given a large contribution to the musical work it would be good to see him step out from the background and take his much deserved spotlight.

The flavour of this new duo, mixed with Elly's eccentric look and fabulous voice, leads me to believe this will not be the last album that we will be seeing from the group. I really encourage you to pick up a copy and check it out, you certainly won't be disappointed.

Beginner Guitar Online - Super Easy Introduction to Guitar Strumming by: Jeremiah La Follette


In the process of learning how to play your guitar chords, you will want to get started and apply these chords to a musical situation like a favourite song.. If you have learned even just one guitar chord, then you are ready to begin learning how to strum on your guitar.

Strumming on the guitar can seem like a mystery when watching other players flawlessly play rhythm on the guitar. What looks difficult, is in reality, a combination of practice and what are called strumming patterns.

Let’s take a look at how to strum on your guitar in three easy mini lessons to describe how to get started strumming your guitar.

1. Guitar strumming: It’s great to learn how to play guitar chords, however, It’s even more fun once you figure out how to strum your guitar chords. Guitar chord strumming consists of learning rhythm strum patterns that will utilize your right hand while holding your guitar pick. With your guitar pick you strum your hand up and down the guitar strings with the chord that you are playing with.

2. Strum patterns: Basic guitar strum patterns consist of what are called down stroke’s and upstroke’s. Begin to Mix and match your Up and down stroke’s with your guitar chords. Mixing around your up and down strokes will allow for variation in the sound of your guitar chords. As you improve your strum pattern technique, you will discover a whole new world of strumming pattern variations that will add life and creativity to the guitar chords that you are learning.

3. Get Started: Pick your favourite guitar chord. With your right hand holding your guitar pick, count to yourself the following; one, two, three, four. Repeat this to yourself four times so that you have in your head what is called a 4/4 time signature. In a downward motion strum your guitar four times. You have now played the most basic guitar strum pattern available. Next, strum upwards four times counting 1234. Next, we are going to vary your strum pattern. With your right hand strum down and then strum up. Do this 2x. In other words: down, up, down up. While you are strumming your guitar remember to count out loud. For example: Down=“1“, Up=“2“, Down=“3“, Down=“4“. Repeat this strum pattern over and over, and try different strum pattern combinations such as up=1 up=2 up=3 down=4.

How to Play Your Guitar - Revealed - Super Quick Chord Changes by: Jeremiah La Follette


As you’re practicing guitar, you will reach the point when you will know more than three chords. It is at this point in learning how to play your guitar that it is imperative to begin practicing your chord changes.

When learning how to play your guitar you will encounter what are called chord changes. Chord changes are switching from one guitar chord to the next guitar chord in a smooth and fast motion. One of the most challenging things that hinders a new guitar player when learning to do chord changes is accurately and quickly switching from chord to chord.

Let’s take a look at 3 easy steps that will help you to achieve super quick chord changes.

1. Memorize your guitar chords
2. Learn the ergonomics of guitar chords
3. Module chord practice

1. Memorize your guitar chords: In order to begin switching from chord to chord super fast, you need to memorize as many guitar chords that you have learned as possible. The more you have your guitar chords memorized, the easier it will be to play your guitar chords individually. This in turn will allow you to transition to the next chord more quickly due to not having to figure out your chord fingering.

2. Learn the ergonomics of guitar chords: This might sound more complicated than what it really is. Chord ergonomic playing is just finding the best fingering for the chord you are playing that will allow you to transition to your next chord as quickly and smoothly as possible. For example, there are two ways to play the A major basic chord. You can use your first three fingers (1, 2, and 3) which is what most beginner guitar players learn how to do, or you can learn how to play a major with the last three fingers (2, 3, and 4) and discover that using this fingering position will allow for smoother and quicker chord changes.

3. Module chord practice: Learning to take your chord switching playing abilities to the next level will require practice. Take two chords and practice switching between the two chords back and forth for two minutes. Take two brand-new chords and practice switching these chords back and forth over and over again for another two minutes. In a 10 minute module unit you can practice switching guitar chords using 10 different chords.

How To Play Guitar Good - The Mysteries of Alternate Picking Revealed. by: Jeremiah La Follette


Once you have begun to learn all of your beginner guitar chords, and basic guitar scales, you will want to make sure that you are utilizing the best right hand technique possible in order to play your guitar is accurately and as fast as possible.

In order to learn how to play guitar good you’ll need to learn the right hand guitar technique called alternate picking. Alternate picking is also a great way to learn how to play your guitar chords correctly, and introduce the concept of arpeggio playing.

The good news is that you can start applying these simple alternate picking techniques immediately to your guitar playing.

Let’s take a look at how to apply basic alternate picking to your guitar playing.

1. Hold your guitar pick correctly
2. Practice using up and down strokes
3. Alternate your guitar strokes
4. Apply alternate picking to your scales
5. Apply alternate picking to your chords

1. Hold your guitar pick correctly: You want to make sure that you’re holding your guitar pick correctly. If you play guitar only with your fingers this will be a great opportunity for you to learn how to play with a guitar pick.

2. Practice using up and down strokes: The basic concept of alternate picking is quite simple. With your guitar pick you will be picking each note and alternating between down and upstroke’s.

3. Alternate your guitar strokes: Once you have the basic concept of alternating your guitar strokes for each string, (up and down, one note at a time) you can now alternate your guitar strokes. For example instead of picking: up, down, up, down; you will be using the pattern of: up, up, down, down, etc. The possibilities of alternating your guitar strokes are limitless.

4. Apply alternate picking to your scales: On the first note that you play your guitar scale with, pick down. The next note you will pick up. When you have mastered going up and down on your guitar scales the next thing you want to do is to have your first note be plucked upwards first. The second note will now be a down stroke, and so forth.

5. Apply alternate picking to your chords: Alternate picking your guitar chords will do three things. The first thing alternate picking will do is ensure that you are playing correctly each of the guitar notes on the chord you are playing. The second thing alternate picking will do with your chords is introduce you to guitar chord picking patterns. The third thing alternate picking will do with your chords is introduce you to what is called arpeggio playing. Simple arpeggio playing is playing the guitar chord one note at a time. Arpeggio playing is also great for playing guitar chords with slow songs.

Learn Beginner Guitar - 6 Easy Steps To Finger Tap Like A Pro by: Jeremiah La Follette


There are some very fun and exciting things that are unique to the guitar. One of these unique items is called finger tapping. Although the theory behind finger tapping is nothing new, there is just something about guitar player finger tapping that sounds totally cool. Many other instruments such as the piano and saxophone have tried for years to emulate the sound of a guitar finger tapping. At the end of the day however, there’s nothing like a real guitar player finger tapping like pro.

Let’s take a look at 6 easy steps to learn beginner guitar finger tapping.

1. With your left hand, place your first finger on the second string, fifth fret.
2. With your right first finger pluck the second string on the ninth fret.
3. With your third finger strike the seventh fret
4. With your right first finger strike the ninth fret.
5. Quickly lift your third finger off of the seventh fret
6. Repeat steps 2 to 5

Let’s take a look at a longer explanation of what is occurring.

1. With your left hand, place your first finger on the second string, fifth fret: Remember to use proper left hand technique and place your left fingers just before the fret to get the best sound out of your guitar.

2. With your right first finger pluck the second string on the ninth fret: if you are holding the guitar pick you will want to place it somewhere else for right now. Later on as you improve your finger tapping technique you can place your guitar pick in between another set of fingers.

3. With your third finger strike the seventh fret: This is a technique called a hammer on, and will require practice in order to get the note sounding loud enough to be heard. If you have a guitar amplifier; turning up the volume will help you to hear your hammer on notes until your fingers are strong enough to not need extra volume.

4. With your right first finger strike the ninth fret: If you are having a hard time hammering on the note with your first finger try placing your middle finger over your first finger to give it some extra strength.

5. Quickly lift your third finger off of the seventh fret: You can either lift your left hand third finger as soon as your right hand first finger taps its first note, or you can quickly lift your left hand third finger away from the fret as you pluck the ninth fret with your right first finger.

6. Repeat steps 2 to 5: You now have the basic foundation to begin finger tapping!

Master and Learn Guitar - Revealed: Introduction To 4 Kinds of Guitar Harmonics by: Jeremiah La Follette


Let’s take a look at 4 basic kinds of harmonics that will help you to master and learn guitar.

1. Open string harmonics
2. Pick harmonics
3. Tap harmonics
4. Thumb pick harmonics

1. Open string harmonics: By far the easiest kind of guitar harmonics that you can learn how to play are what are called open string harmonics. Open string harmonics are when you lightly place your finger over your guitar strings. You can play all of your guitar strings at once, or, you can play individual open string harmonics. The best open string harmonics are found on the 12th fret, seventh fret, and the fifth fret. There are other open strings harmonics all throughout the guitar, however, these three fret areas are by far the easiest to find and play on your guitar.

2. Pinch harmonics: Pinch harmonics are individually pinched notes on the guitar. You can choose either your open strings, or any note found throughout the guitar fretboard. With your right hand holding the guitar pick, you will take the tip of the guitar pick and pinch your guitar strings. This pinching action will produce a harmonic. For starters, practice your pinch harmonics on Strings 6, 5, and 4.

3. Tap harmonics: Tap harmonics are the hardest of all harmonic guitar styles to play. Played correctly and you will have a very sonically rich sounding guitar. The great thing with tap harmonics is that you can play individual notes or full fingered chords. With your left hand place your fingers on the note or chord that you want to play. With your right hand first finger you will be tapping individual notes or striking the guitar fretboard with all of your first finger like a long flat stretched out hammer. With your first finger you will be tapping an octave higher from where your left hand finger placement is located. For example, if the note you are playing is on the six string, third fret, you’re right first finger will strike the 15th fret, sixth string.

4. Thumb pick harmonics: Another single note harmonic style that you can utilize is a combination of your right thumb and first finger. Choose your single note or chord with your left hand. Next, place your right finger an octave higher lightly on top of the string, above the fret board. Use your right thumb as a pick. Pluck the note keeping your right hand fingering position. Thumb pick harmonics are an expansion of open string harmonic technique.

Guitar Practice - Secrets Revealed Here: 4 Uplifting Methods To Relieve Depression By Practicing Guitar by: Jeremiah La Follette


There are many newspaper and psychology reports that claim the benefits of listening to music in order to relieve depression. There’s just something about music that can soothe the savaged soul.

Another great way two relieve depression is by going beyond listening to music, and learning how to play an instrument. Guitar is just one of those instruments that you can learn how to play very quickly and easily with proper guidance and instruction.

Depending on how much guitar practice is accomplished by the depressed individual, you can quite literally learn all of the basics of beginner guitar within 3 to 6 months of practicing your six string instrument.

At first glance you might think that practicing your guitar is depressing. With the right attitude, and the right practice techniques, guitar practice is a major key to supporting the relief of depression.

Let’s take a look at 4 ways that guitar practice can relieve depression.

1. Choose to Practice Guitar: The choice to practice guitar is quite important when you consider that many times the foundational key to life change is determined by choosing to make a right choice. Making the right choice to practice guitar is the first step in the support of relieving depression.

2. Actually Practice: The next step to relieve depression by guitar practice is to actually sit down and practice your guitar. Actually implementing what you have learned on guitar will enable you to know that if you can practice one time, then you can practice again and again. By actually practicing what you have learned on guitar, you will be able to quickly reap the soothing musical benefits that come from playing and practicing music on the guitar.

3. Always look back from where you came from: As you practice your guitar you will look back upon where you came from and be amazed at what you can do on guitar. Compared this to what you are unable to do when you first started. Music therapy aside, recognizing improvement in your own personal abilities is a great way to help support and defeat any depression that you may be dealing with. It is very important to not get frustrated depending how fast or slow you learn on your six string instrument.

4. Frustrating opportunities: Frustration will always occur when learning a new instrument. By choosing to have the right attitude, you can take your frustration as an opportunity to look back where you came from and where you are now. For example, if you have been practicing your guitar for three months, it is important to look back and recognize that 2 months ago you were further behind than where you are now on your instrument. Instead of getting depressed, you can actually rejoice and use your frustration as an opportunity to increase your skills on the guitar. By letting frustration be an opportunity to increase your skills on the guitar, you will be helping yourself by getting rid of depression through guitar practice.

"Miss Congeniality" Had an Identity Issue, Sandra Bullock Saved It From Disaster by: Ed Bagley


Miss Congeniality - 2 Stars (Average)

"Miss Congeniality" had a real identity problem as a movie. Unfortunately for Sandra Bullock, the star of the film as FBI agent Gracie Hart, Miss Congeniality could not take her as far as her performance merited.

She did win a second Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy; her first was the same nomination for her role as Lucy in "While You Were Sleeping".

Released in 2000, Miss Congeniality is not a drama, an action adventure, a police flick, a comedy or a romantic comedy. It is a mismatch of all and a master of none. When you add in the corny, juvenile, inappropriate dialog, the film is lucky it had Sandra Bullock as its centerpiece because without her, it would have been beyond dismal.

In other words, the writers of Miss Congeniality—Marc Lawrence, Katie Ford and Caryn Lucas (and these may be the only ones who were willing to take credit for the script)—did not add much beyond the plot.

Gracie Hart is cast as an unattractive, disheveled, bumbling FBI agent who has no life beyond her 24/7 commitment to her job. When it is determined that a wacko, serial killer has set his sights on a Miss United States beauty pageant, Agent Hart is a reluctant last choice to go undercover.

Hart is such a poor choice that beauty consultant Victor Melling (played by veteran Michael Caine) is brought in to polish her appearance and performance as Miss New Jersey. Melling has 2 days to get the job done; this is just one example of an unbelievably bad script; even in this wannabe comedy, nothing rings true. It is like having a chair with no legs.

When the real serial killer is caught before the pageant ends, the FBI gets up and leaves. Hart realizes that something is amiss and hangs around on her own, suspecting that the most recent letter from the killer is written by a copycat killer for convenience. You will have to see the movie for the rest.

Even director Donald Petrie could not totally control the amount of glut in Miss Congeniality's script. There were enough sidesteps, missteps and sight gags for a novelist to write a trilogy, and none of them worked all that well. Petrie cut some of the crap out, but the writers were trying to make a career out of writing one script.

Enough carping. Miss Congeniality had a few good moments, but I would not watch it a second time. One real positive was the final still picture of Sandra Bullock at the end of the film—she never looked better.

Copyright © 2009 Ed Bagley

"Miss Congeniality" Had an Identity Issue, Sandra Bullock Saved It From Disaster by: Ed Bagley


Miss Congeniality - 2 Stars (Average)

"Miss Congeniality" had a real identity problem as a movie. Unfortunately for Sandra Bullock, the star of the film as FBI agent Gracie Hart, Miss Congeniality could not take her as far as her performance merited.

She did win a second Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy; her first was the same nomination for her role as Lucy in "While You Were Sleeping".

Released in 2000, Miss Congeniality is not a drama, an action adventure, a police flick, a comedy or a romantic comedy. It is a mismatch of all and a master of none. When you add in the corny, juvenile, inappropriate dialog, the film is lucky it had Sandra Bullock as its centerpiece because without her, it would have been beyond dismal.

In other words, the writers of Miss Congeniality—Marc Lawrence, Katie Ford and Caryn Lucas (and these may be the only ones who were willing to take credit for the script)—did not add much beyond the plot.

Gracie Hart is cast as an unattractive, disheveled, bumbling FBI agent who has no life beyond her 24/7 commitment to her job. When it is determined that a wacko, serial killer has set his sights on a Miss United States beauty pageant, Agent Hart is a reluctant last choice to go undercover.

Hart is such a poor choice that beauty consultant Victor Melling (played by veteran Michael Caine) is brought in to polish her appearance and performance as Miss New Jersey. Melling has 2 days to get the job done; this is just one example of an unbelievably bad script; even in this wannabe comedy, nothing rings true. It is like having a chair with no legs.

When the real serial killer is caught before the pageant ends, the FBI gets up and leaves. Hart realizes that something is amiss and hangs around on her own, suspecting that the most recent letter from the killer is written by a copycat killer for convenience. You will have to see the movie for the rest.

Even director Donald Petrie could not totally control the amount of glut in Miss Congeniality's script. There were enough sidesteps, missteps and sight gags for a novelist to write a trilogy, and none of them worked all that well. Petrie cut some of the crap out, but the writers were trying to make a career out of writing one script.

Enough carping. Miss Congeniality had a few good moments, but I would not watch it a second time. One real positive was the final still picture of Sandra Bullock at the end of the film—she never looked better.

Copyright © 2009 Ed Bagley

"Radio" Is One of the Most Under-Rated and Under-Appreciated Films in Movie History by: Ed Bagley


Radio - 4 Stars (Excellent)

"Radio"—the true story of high school football coach Harold Jones and a mentally-challenged young man named James Robert "Radio" Kennedy—might well be one of the most under-rated and under-appreciated movies in film history.

James Kennedy was nicknamed "Radio" by the townspeople of Anderson, South Carolina because he was always listening to discarded radios. As a youth he would push or ride a grocery cart down the street, talking to no one. It was 1976 and Radio did not attend school because he was mentally challenged, and an easy target for kids more fortunate.

After some football players on coach Harold Jones' T. L. Hanna High School team harass, intimidate and scare the living daylights out of Radio (played by Cuba Gooding Jr.), Jones befriends and protects Radio by slowly winning his trust and inviting him to the team's football practices.

Coach Jones (played magnificently by veteran actor Ed Harris) eventually has Radio helping out as a "coach" and sitting on the bench during the games. When Radio's new-found acceptance leads to his self-image and self-confidence rising, his enthusiasm creates a distraction for the team at a critical moment, and some boosters (like the father of a star player) want Radio gone.

Fortunately for Radio, his unpretentious love and loyalty to the coach and players resonates, and Radio is allowed to remain part of both the team and the school. At this point in time, Radio is attending school, not as a student, but as a positive influence on the students and a welcome school-helper.

All of this is reminiscent of the biblical admonition "if you hear His voice today, harden not your heart." Radio is about love, acceptance, approval, understanding, compassion, kindness, loyalty and finding peace in our time.

Radio the movie was inspired by Gary Smith's 1996 article titled "Someone to Lean On" that first appeared in Sports Illustrated magazine. The film benefits greatly from the script by Mike Rich and direction by Mike Tollin, also one of the producers with Herb Gains and Brian O'keefe. Radio managed to generate $52+ million at the box office, but received mixed positive and negative reviews by the critics (of which I am one).

Radio was a terrific movie with a genuine message of value. Radio gets a positive answer to my most searching question as a movie reviewer: Am I a better person for having seen this film? You better believe it.

I am incensed that Radio was absolutely snubbed at major awards time. It is not like Ed Harris is a nobody. Before Radio was made, Ed Harris had been nominated for 3 Oscars as Best Supporting Actor ("The Hours", "The Truman Show" and "Apollo") and been nominated for Best Actor in "Pollock". Add to those honors 4 nominations by the Golden Globes and a Best Actor Golden Globe for The Truman Show.

Cuba Gooding Jr. had won an Oscar as Best Supporting Actor in "Jerry Maguire" (remember his famous line "Show me the money"), and was nominated for a Golden Globe for the same award.

The really good news about Radio is that Radio is still helping coach the Hanna High School team and bringing his presence to the school. He remains a story that continues to grow and radiate with positive vibes.

Copyright © 2009 Ed Bagley

"Kingdom of Heaven" Sought to Be an Epic Film, But Became a Disaster in Production

Kingdom of Heaven" Sought to Be an Epic Film, But Became a Disaster in Production
by: Ed Bagley




Kingdom of Heaven - 1 Star (Terrible)

Unfortunately for the "Kingdom of Heaven", what started out as an ambitious epic film about a little known time in history, became an almost disaster at its release and was only average at best. There is enough blame to spread around.

First, there is a reason why the immortal "Gone with the Wind", which involved a turbulent love affair in the American south during the Civil War and Reconstruction, took almost 4 hours to see. You apparently cannot make a quality, classic film about the Civil War in less time. Ken Burns' acclaimed documentary film "The Civil War" consisted of 9 episodes and took 11 hours to view.

Second, there may be a market for a film in the Middle Ages about the Christian Crusades, a series of military expeditions by Europeans to recover the Holy Land from the Muslims in the 11th, 12th and 13th Centuries. That market, regrettably, is very small compared to an epic about the Civil War, World War I or World War II.

Third, when 3-time, Best Director Oscar-nominee Ridley Scott ("Black Hawk Down", "Gladiator" and "Thelma and Louise") presented the film to the studio at 194 minutes (3 hours and 14 minutes), the studio execs demanded that it be cut to two hours, believing that moviegoers would not sit through a 3-hour film.

This proved to be a critical mistake in judgment. It was nearly impossible for Scott to tell the Kingdom of Heaven story in 2 hours, and when the movie received really mixed reviews and proved to be a financial disappointment in the United States, the error was clearly noticeable.

Fourth, not only was this film to be an epic story, its production cost was enormous. Most of the filming was in Morocco, and Mohammad VI, King of Morocco, provided 1,500 of his military personnel with accompanying equipment to help in the filming.

In addition, there were apparently 15,000 handmade costumes for the film that also required helmets, boots, gloves, chainmail, belts and scabbards. The flag budget for the film was $250,000. There were 7,500 weapons, 3,000 shields and 20,000 arrows used in the film. In one scene alone, there were 143 extras, 60 military personnel, 125 horses and 60 camels.

A massive replica of Jerusalem was constructed in the Sahara Desert, containing 28,000 square meters of wall that required 6,000 tons of plaster. The front set was 1,200 feet long and the walls were 56 feet tall. Good grief.

Fifth, writer William Monahan's first draft of the script was 186 pages. Executive producer Lisa Ellzey thought Fox would never approve the script because of its length, so she cut it to only 20 pages before submitting it.

Sixth, Orlando Bloom was not ready to play the leading role as Balian of Ibelin, and his performance did not reflect the kind of command and presence necessary to pull it off.

Seventh, I had great difficulty as a moviegoer following the story as its presentation required much more help in context, or from a narrator, to understand what was happening when and why it was important.

Eighth, the sound in the film was terrible. There were times when it was impossible to understand the dialog and, without this essential element, there is no way the film would be rated good by my standards. Sound is too basic of a need to succeed and, when it goes unnoticed because it is well done, it is not an issue.

Ninth, this whole project was sad from start to finish. What could have become a good film could not overcome the obstacles along the way. Two bright spots in the film were the performances of Liam Neeson as Godfrey de Ibelin and Ghassan Massoud as Saladin, the great Muslim leader.

In his quest to be noble, Liam Neeson was able to deliver this dialog as Godfrey de Ibelin: "Be without fear in the face of our enemies. Be brave and upright that God may love thee. Speak the truth always, even if it leads to your death. Safeguard the helpless and do no wrong. That is your oath." (Spoken to his son, Balian, when making him a knight.)

History records that Saladin and his Muslim troops did recapture Jerusalem after defeating the King of Jerusalem at the Battle of Hattin near the Lake of Galilee. When Saladin's soldiers enter the City of Jerusalem, they were not allowed to kill civilians, rob people, or damage the city.

In many ways, the Muslims come out looking better than the Christians in Kingdom of Heaven, and historically, they were.

Dance Career Tips From Professional Dancers

Dance careers can be difficult to jump-start, so why not listen to some advice from professional dancers?

This past weekend, we had some additions to our usual group of friends, professional dancers. After I got over my initial sense of awe, we began to talk about their dance careers. I’ve always been fascinated with how people rise to the top of their profession. Professional athletes, movie stars and bands, they all have a unique story but there are usually some core similarities. This article outlines the basic things you should do to start your career in dance to become a professional dancer. Now, you’ll need a little bit of luck, good timing and connections as well, but you could get all of that while getting a Big Mac at your local McDonalds. Natural talent is a good base, but it won’t take you to the top. You need to nurture that talent, develop it and present it to the right people. This article shows you the basics. Some are more obvious than others. Most of you just need some reassurance that you’re taking the right steps to reach your goal, while others have no idea where to start. I believe that not all people in the “know” have the level of talent they need, and not all people with talent are in the “know”. I want to change that, so let’s start!

1. People do not become professionals in anything by reading a few articles or practicing a few hours a week. They become students of their profession. Students go to school. This goes for professional dancers as well. Now, there are a select few that push themselves on their own and have developed a wonderful ability, but that is still not enough. Their talent is rough and unrefined. Regardless of how many years you’ve practiced in your basement, everyone needs some formal training. Nothing can replace a veteran dancer showing you right from wrong, critiquing you and encouraging you. Start by going to a dance studio. Obviously, the sooner you do this the better. You’ll rack up experience and the younger you are the more receptive you are to learning. A good rule of thumb is the bigger the dance studio the better the dance professionals. However, a good teacher has experience, but also a connection with their pupil. This relationship can be forged at smaller, local dance studios as well. Remember, this is just the beginning. There are many professionals that reminisce about a grade school teacher that influenced them the most. Of course, it was probably some Julliard professor that trained them the most, but the person who taught them passion and desire is usually someone they met earlier in their dance career.

2. Dance camps and other supplemental dance institutions are a great way to increase your exposure to various aspects of the dance industry. You will network, learn techniques and be exposed to different teachers and performances. Going outside your comfort zone is a great way to build independence, character and a sense of responsibility as a dancer.

3. When you graduate high school, you’ll be looking to go on to college. This decision should be well thought out. You’re going to trust them with your education that will play a significant role in life after college. As an aspiring, professional dancer, you will want to attend the most prestigious dance school you can find. Try to find an accredited dance school, but at the very least any dance school is better than none. Make sure you start planning before it’s time to apply, like well before. You should begin your research about dance schools while you’re still in high school. Find out what requirements they are looking for in a dancer. Do whatever you can to better your chances at being accepted.

By the end of your formal training, you should, if you haven’t already, be narrowing down your dance techniques to a few select, specialized styles. You need to seek out the best dance teacher(s) you can find in those styles and train—train—train. Like any profession, it’s all about education, and for a professional dancer, you never stop learning and practicing. Once again, if you are serious and want to advance in your dance career, at this point you need an expert, a real professional dance teacher.

4. The next tip is something that I’ve written about before. You need good head and body shots, and for that you need a good photographer. Refer to my article, “4 Tips for Great Actor Headshots”, on Talent Trove for more information about what you need for a good portfolio. Yes, it’s about actor headshots, but there are some valid and transferable tips for dancers as well. The important thing to remember for your body shots as a dancer is that you should take pictures of yourself in various dancewears. Don’t wear flashy jewelry, use lighting or shadows to create illusions, or distract the observer with a complex or interesting background. You should be the focus and the subject of interest, nothing else. Good photographs can really help you further you dance career by grabbing the attention of those who should be watching you.

5. At this point, you should already have been to minor dance auditions and castings, just to get your feet wet and some sort of experience, however, now you are ready for some serious work…and it is work. Don’t ever forget that this is your job, your profession. This new level of dance might come as a shock or seem like foreign territory, but you must believe that you are good enough to be here. You are good enough to be here. This is a higher standard. It will be different. It will be difficult, but that is what makes it so much greater when you succeed. You’ve come this far. This is what you’ve been training for, and others have found potential in you, enough to accept and train you. You belong here. The more of these auditions and casting calls you attend, the more comfortable you will become.

6. Those networking and people skills you picked up during your days at dance camp and college will now come into play. You’re in the deep end of the pool now, playing with the big kids. Time to mingle and make new friends. You have to start talking to those professional dancers you see walking the studio halls during your dance auditions. Talk to other dancers who are auditioning. Talk to the judges, casting directors, agents, anyone that will talk to you. Ask them questions, pick their brain, and learn from their stories. Even if they don’t answer your questions, their behavior, demeanor, and way of conversing with you will teach you something. The best thing you can do is become friends with someone successful.

7. You should be fairly comfortable with auditioning by now, and ready to start searching for a dance agent or a dance agency. You will most likely have to perform a dance routine for them in order to be accepted, however, once you’re in you will be given opportunities that you otherwise wouldn’t know existed. These dance agents and dance agencies get the scoop on dance auditions and casting calls so try your best to get represented by one. Once you are in, your dance career will be given wings. However, this is no time to take it easy and coast on through. Now is the time to step it up.

8. Back to what I mentioned before, “…you never stop learning and practicing.” Well, it’s time to train—train—train. Practice makes perfect, I know you’ve heard that before. This intense training period isn’t about learning new styles as it might have been about before. This dance training will focus on honing your existing skills and techniques down to a sharp, crisp point. You need to be awesome in what you do, not mediocre in a broad range of areas. A professional dancer needs to be at the top of their specific field, not hovering in the middle across the board. You’ll have plenty of time later to expand your horizons, but for now you need a job so you can gain valuable experience…and money. Also, stop and take a breath. Look around, you’re becoming a dancer, and your dance career is beginning to take shape. Enjoy it!

9. When you think you’re ready, and don’t wait to long at this point, start researching some choreographers you would like to work with or train with as a pupil. Most dance choreographers will offer dance classes at their own dance studios. You have to wait this long before you attempt to train with a professional dance choreographer, because they are just that, professionals. Dance choreographers will only work with the best dancers so you have to be at a certain point of your dance career for them to take interest in you. There are many benefits to working with a dance choreographer. You become familiar with the way this aspect of the dance industry works. They will begin to recognize you and perhaps throw some work your way. You will also be updated and trained in the most current dance techniques and trends. The fewer things that surprise you during a dance audition the better.

10. At the end of all this there is one important thing to remember, that usually separates those that make it and those that do not. If this is truly what you want, and you’ve dreamt about it all your life, never give up trying. Every successful person in the world has one thing in common. They were relentless in their pursuit of happiness. If you want to make the most out of your dance career, it will take a lot of hard work so don’t get discouraged. You’ll get rejected. Everyone does. Being a dancer is not easy for anyone, but people do it. Why not you?

These tips are not set in stone or by any means in exact order. Everyone is different and some people might jump ahead or start one step later in their career. The important thing is that you have a clear plan with goals, and you work hard to achieve them.

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