Here’s the newest member of the family, Lily. She’s a golden Shiba Inu (very rare I just found out!) and one of the spunkiest, inquisitive and loving dogs I’ve met. No I have not fallen out of love with my buddy of 3 years the Yorkshire Terrorist Butch, but she is a welcome addition to the household. Today brought the WORST news, Lily has to have surgery on a heart murmur. Could that be any worse? If you never had a pet, you don’t understand, but they DO become like your children. So heatbreaking but a great new love!

1. You complain or huff every  time you need to pull it up, whether the bump into an elevator or walking around stairs.

2. This makes you walk slower and take up a LOT more room.

3. They are just completely unnecessary

4. Because you’re an ass for using one.

Thanks!

B

When I was at AOL Music I did a series of “AIM Interviews” over AIM with some pretty awesome (and some kinda awesome) people. Popping up my interview with JC Chazez. Enjoy.

BrendanInMusic: hey there, how’s it goin??
UntilJC: how are you
BrendanInMusic: i’m doin good thanks
BrendanInMusic: thanks so much for takin the time to chat!
UntilJC: no sweat
BrendanInMusic: so what’s goin on? where are you today?
UntilJC: LA today
BrendanInMusic: has the crazy schedule begun or do you still have some “quiet” time before the big album release?
UntilJC: it’s actually just getting started
UntilJC: just got back in town 2 days ago
BrendanInMusic: where have you been?
UntilJC: NY the last week
UntilJC: headed to Atlanta in a day or 2
BrendanInMusic: very cool
UntilJC: NY was cool
BrendanInMusic: what do you have going on in Atlanta?
UntilJC: Atlanta i have to finish up one of my last mixes
BrendanInMusic: so does the album have a title yet?
UntilJC: of course not
UntilJC: i’m nuts man
BrendanInMusic: haha.
BrendanInMusic: Schizophrenic, your first solo album, had a pretty appropriate title
UntilJC: yeah
UntilJC: i have a few ideas but i don’t think i’m completely sold on one yet
BrendanInMusic: what will sell you?
UntilJC: i’ll know it when i hear it i guess
BrendanInMusic: so, the first single off the album is ‘Until Yesterday’
UntilJC: indeed it is
UntilJC: i think is sounds great

BrendanInMusic: it’s definitely a great song. i randomly start humming the “ooohs” in my cube haha
UntilJC: haha
BrendanInMusic: and on this song, you worked with your good buddy justin right?
UntilJC: yeah
UntilJC: it was the second song we worked on
UntilJC: and it’s where i feel like we found the entire feel of the record
BrendanInMusic: was it odd working with him on non nsync stuff? what was the vibe?
UntilJC: wasn’t odd at all
UntilJC: it came completely natural
UntilJC: it was relaxed
UntilJC: we had already written one song
UntilJC: so we were starting to really fall into a groove
UntilJC: by then he had a strong idea of the kind of things i was into
UntilJC: and everything just rolled from there
BrendanInMusic: nice. seemed to have worked well!
UntilJC: i think so
BrendanInMusic: you also worked with a lot of big names on the album
BrendanInMusic: out of everyone you worked with who did you mesh with the best?
UntilJC: i worked with quite a few people on this record
UntilJC: it seems like the cuts that made the album were all done by the people that i got along with and had the most fun with
UntilJC: all the records on this album that made it came from great writing experiences
BrendanInMusic: nice
UntilJC: so i wouldn’t really choose one over the other
BrendanInMusic: what else can fans expect to hear on your album?
UntilJC: this record has A LOT of singing on it
UntilJC: Even the first single is a very complete song
UntilJC: very musical
UntilJC: not just an 8 bar loop with a melody written over it
UntilJC: some vibes are great like that
UntilJC: but i wanted to make a very musical and melodic record
BrendanInMusic: did you feel like you had something to prove this time around? your soph. solo record??
UntilJC: not at all
UntilJC: i just wanted to make a record with great tunes
BrendanInMusic: i don’t think anyone would argue that one!
UntilJC: there are a few songs with a great sense of humor and sarcasm
UntilJC: like the first single
UntilJC: i think that shows how i don’t take myself too seriously
BrendanInMusic: who was playing with fire?
UntilJC: that no good heart stomping tramp that got knocked up by another man
BrendanInMusic: hahahaha!
BrendanInMusic: hate that @#%$
BrendanInMusic: so you definitely have the laid back thing down, but you’ve also described your music as intelligent pop music
BrendanInMusic: what does that mean exactly?
UntilJC: i didn’t settle
UntilJC: i wanted to make real songs
UntilJC: even if they were sarcastic
UntilJC: i wanted to push them
UntilJC: so much of what’s popular is hypnotic
UntilJC: and that’s fine
UntilJC: but i wanted folks to kind of catch things and think about things when they heard these records
BrendanInMusic: did any one specific thing help drive you in that direction? a muse or idol, etc?
UntilJC: i don’t know if it was anyone in particular
UntilJC: i think it was more me looking for something interesting to listen too
BrendanInMusic: what else are you listening to now?
UntilJC: i don’t know really
UntilJC: everything and anything i guess
UntilJC: music is food
BrendanInMusic: nothing on heavy rotation on your ipod?
UntilJC: i pretty much download a new album everyday
UntilJC: new or old
BrendanInMusic: what was the last one you got?
UntilJC: embarrassingly enough Thin Lizzy
UntilJC: good time records
UntilJC: haha
BrendanInMusic: lol, nothing wrong with a guilty pleasure 
UntilJC: that and i picked up a YES record last night
UntilJC: those were the last 2
BrendanInMusic: i recommend the new Fergie. its pretty good!
UntilJC: right on
UntilJC: i like Powlow
UntilJC: he’s a great beat guy
BrendanInMusic: is there anyone you still have a hankering to work with musically?
UntilJC: I don’t know
UntilJC: I think I really just want to get better at what I do everyday
BrendanInMusic: paris hilton perhaps? 
UntilJC: no thanks
UntilJC: haha
BrendanInMusic: lol
BrendanInMusic: so a few months back there were rumors that nsync was going to get back and do another cd
BrendanInMusic: was that just rumor?
UntilJC: just a rumor
BrendanInMusic: is that something you would have liked to do? maybe in the future?
UntilJC: who knows
UntilJC: right now i’m happy working on what i’m doing
UntilJC: i’ve had a great time working with Justin
UntilJC: I think at this point it might take away from what we accomplished
UntilJC: we’re all happy where we are at
UntilJC: but i can never say never because life is a journey and they are my friends
BrendanInMusic: well there’s still some hope for those who still have the marionette dolls on their shelves 
UntilJC: haha
UntilJC: you might have to paint some lines in the faces and paint the hair grey by then, but there is hope
BrendanInMusic: what about you,? anything else you feel like conquering
BrendanInMusic: acting?
BrendanInMusic: curling?
BrendanInMusic: lol
UntilJC: haha
UntilJC: I keep an open mind to options
UntilJC: but right now its basically the record
UntilJC: i really do want people to see this is my passion
UntilJC: and when you dedicate too much time to other things i feel like it takes away from your focus on what is important
UntilJC: maybe later on
UntilJC: but for now
UntilJC: i’m still doing a lot of learning and self discovery
BrendanInMusic: what is the most valuable thing you think you’ve learned at this stage of the game?
UntilJC: everyone in the world is searching for what makes them happy
UntilJC: what they want to do with their lives
UntilJC: i feel fortunate to realize what makes me happy
UntilJC: and to make a life out of what i’m passionate about
BrendanInMusic: so do any other songs on the album stick out to you?
BrendanInMusic: any that you find yourself really magnetized to?
UntilJC: I’m a sucker for a ballad
UntilJC: because i scream my head off in them
UntilJC: i think people will respond to the vocal performance
BrendanInMusic: sucker for love?
UntilJC: but the 2 other songs i kind of respond to might be the weirder ones
UntilJC: Satellite is a song I like alot
UntilJC: as well as I Found You Out
UntilJC: Satellite is a great story and metaphor
UntilJC: I Found You Out is just one big build to a climax
UntilJC: so by the time you get to the end you just feel lifted
BrendanInMusic: nice, can’t wait to hear them!
BrendanInMusic: so you said that this album pretty much has all your attention at the moment. does that mean no love life for you?
UntilJC: love life is a wreck
BrendanInMusic: uh oh, that doesn’t sound too good
UntilJC: haha
UntilJC: not bad
UntilJC: i can be a walking disaster
BrendanInMusic: do you think that has to do with your schedule? the people you meet??
UntilJC: sometimes it’s the people i meet
UntilJC: sometimes it’s me
UntilJC: sometimes it’s the erratic schedule
UntilJC: who knows
BrendanInMusic: what is it you look for in someone?
UntilJC: i love it when someone draws something out in you
UntilJC: you forgot you had or didn’t know you had
BrendanInMusic: i read somewhere that you had your first kiss at 7…
BrendanInMusic: is that true??
UntilJC: somewhere around there yes
BrendanInMusic: started playin’ the field pretty early! haha
UntilJC: we called it soap opera kissing
UntilJC: i guess that’s me
UntilJC: the experimental one
UntilJC: though i do have my limits
BrendanInMusic: what type of soap opera
BrendanInMusic: the one on daytime tv, or hbo after hours?
BrendanInMusic: lol
UntilJC: daytime tv when i was young
BrendanInMusic: i guess we can use our imaginations for when you became a young man jc 
UntilJC: ……………………
BrendanInMusic: so you’ve definitely made some tabloid headlines, but for the most part, your personal life still tends to be somewhat well covered
UntilJC: i think that’s true
BrendanInMusic: is it something intentional or just the luck of the draw?
UntilJC: i’m not looking to extort a career out of my personal life
BrendanInMusic: do you think a lot of what is out there smells a tad like publicity stunts?
UntilJC: who knows
UntilJC: but some of what’s out there is conveniently in front of the camera
UntilJC: i will never dog anyone for having a good time
BrendanInMusic: so no crazy drug addiction or affairs to spill??
UntilJC: ……………
UntilJC: haha
BrendanInMusic: hahaha nice
BrendanInMusic: we’ll have to wait and see 
BrendanInMusic: but totally excited about Until Yesterday and the new album
UntilJC: thanks man
UntilJC: me too
BrendanInMusic: can’t wait to see much more of you soon
UntilJC: i feel like i have something unique to offer the world
UntilJC: and i’m excited for the people who will enjoy it to have it
BrendanInMusic: you think the world is ready for you??
UntilJC: i hope so
UntilJC: cause i think I’m about ready for the world
BrendanInMusic: nice. definitely wish you the best of luck
UntilJC: thank you
BrendanInMusic: thanks so much for chatting 
UntilJC: no sweat
UntilJC: sorry about typos and such
BrendanInMusic: haha. it’s all part of your charm
UntilJC: right
UntilJC: take it easy
BrendanInMusic: you too 
BrendanInMusic: bye!
UntilJC: later

When I was at AOL Music I did a series of “AIM Interviews” over AIM with some pretty awesome (and some kinda awesome) people. Popping up my interview with JoJo. Enjoy.

BGrimaldi01: hey!!!

JoJoHighRoad2: helloooo!

BGrimaldi01: how are you JoJo, where are you IMing us from today?

JoJoHighRoad2: Im at my home in Massachusetts right now, and im good, how are you?

BGrimaldi01: doing good thanks!

BGrimaldi01: getting a little relaxation time at home before the big album release???

JoJoHighRoad2: hehe, yes! The leaves are just starting to change and the weather is awesome and all my familys here so its good to chill out a bit before it gets extra crazy!

BGrimaldi01: very nice! i just spent the weekend in Cape Cod ( a nice rainy weekend ) but the weather seems to be cooperating for you today so that’s good!

JoJoHighRoad2: I love Cape Cod

BGrimaldi01: so you have a lot goin on lately, first off tell us a little (or a lot) about The High Road

JoJoHighRoad2: Its my sophmore record! And im very excited about it. Its been 3 years since i was in the studio recording my first album so to get back in and sing again was so much fun. i had taken some time off to film two movies and had a great experience with both, but it felt so nice to get back to the music. I worked with everyone from Swizz beats and Scott Storch to Diane Warren and Billy Steinberg. Its eclectic and something that  i worked very hard on.

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BGrimaldi01: those are some of the biggest people in this business…What was it like to work with these people?

JoJoHighRoad2: It was incredible. I was a little nervous to be honest, though… I got to go to Miami to work with Scott Storch and Sean Garrett and i didnt know quite what to expect. All the producers, however, were so nice and helpful and definetly put me at ease.

BGrimaldi01: was it more of a collaborative process with them?

BGrimaldi01: or did you take more of the drivers seat?

JoJoHighRoad2: Thankfully yes, they were always open to my ideas ,opinions, or suggestions. Since im still very young, I llove to listen to and learn from other peoples ideas because they have more experience when it comes to things and they have dozens of hit songs under their belt so i think Its good to work in conjunction with them as long as we can still get across who i want to be as an artist.

JoJoHighRoad2: sorry… im taking a long time to type

BGrimaldi01: who seemed to mesh the best with your sound/style

JoJoHighRoad2: lol

BGrimaldi01: haha it’s ok, you’re on vacation, you’re allowed to be as slow as you want

JoJoHighRoad2: hmmmm… thats a tough one! But i think Billy Steinberg (who did my first single “Too Little Too late”) and I mesh very well. He works with a guy named Josh and together we wrote a song called “How To Touch A Girl”. They are soooo cool and sooo talented and are always pushing me to try new things and take me vocally to notes i didnt know i could reach. lol

BGrimaldi01: awesome

BGrimaldi01: so, the people you worked with are giants in music… did you get any dirt on some of the other people they worked with??;-)

JoJoHighRoad2: oooooh actually yes!

BGrimaldi01: ooh do tell!

JoJoHighRoad2: U know i can’t spill any of that!! Im a nice girl…

JoJoHighRoad2:

BGrimaldi01: ok ok… good P.C. answer.. (you can share after our chat!! )

JoJoHighRoad2: I dont know, just things like what kind of things certain artists demanded…

JoJoHighRoad2: or wouldnt do…

JoJoHighRoad2: hehe

BGrimaldi01: so everyone who just knows your music thinks you’ve been on a nice relaxing vacation since your first album.. like you said it’s been 3 years since you recorded it, but you did two movies..

BGrimaldi01: did you study acting at the same time as you were pursuing your music career?

JoJoHighRoad2: Ive actually been acting since i was 6. I did a bit of theatre and commercials and even a little spot in an independent movie when i was about 8 or 9. So acting wasnt just something random for me to jump into after the first album, even though it might seem that way. lol. I really enjoy it and i knew i didnt want to release back-to-back c.d.’s so i thought it would be a fun way to occupy my time in between music projects!

BGrimaldi01: that’s cool, you’ve been quite the busy girl throughout your life.. now that you’ve done major projects in both music and the big screen, does one seem to be more “you” than the other?

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BGrimaldi01: maybe you will do a musical like outkast?

JoJoHighRoad2: I would say music is more “me”, because in music you can be whoever you want to be at any moment and constantly change and evolve and show different sides of your personality. In a movie, you are one character and although you go through different emotions, you are not yourself. You’re acting!

JoJoHighRoad2: I LOVE “IDLEWILD” by the way, that movie was awesome. OutKast is great…

BGrimaldi01: haha nice! maybe one of these days we can expect JoJo the movie/musical!

JoJoHighRoad2: who knows…

BGrimaldi01: so i’ve got you on MY ipod, other than OuKast what are you listening to these days?

JoJoHighRoad2: I just downloaded Beyonce’s new album to my i-pod yesterday. Im a huge fan of hers… i also loooove Joni Mitchell. She is one of my favorite songwriters. Also James Taylor, and D’Angelo I’ve been listening to alot.

JoJoHighRoad2: And Bob Marley!

BGrimaldi01: nice! ps.. irreplaceable on beyonce’s cd is AMAZING! check it out if you haven’t

JoJoHighRoad2: BEAUTFIUL song, i agree

JoJoHighRoad2: I love “Get Me Bodied”

JoJoHighRoad2: shes awesome

BGrimaldi01: now about you…too little, too late seems to be doing really well, when you finished it, did you KNOW it would be a hit or are you a worrier?

JoJoHighRoad2: Aww thank you! Im excited about it, and i really liked it from the moment it was played over the phone for me. I heard it first with a demo-singer on it and they asked me if i wanted to record it. And i said YES! I loved the way it was written and knew alot of people would relate to it. After i recorded it i knew i wanted it to be the first single. It was one of my best experiences in the studio ever, as far as how fun it was to record.

BGrimaldi01: it really is a great song, your voice sounds amazing on it, you can hear that over the last three years your sound has definitely matured

JoJoHighRoad2: thank you very much

BGrimaldi01: so I was lucky enough to hear a little bit of your album, the style of the songs are pretty diverse, what can fans expect when they get to listen?

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JoJoHighRoad2: They’ll hear growth and a bit of maturity in my vocals and the content of the lyrics. Im by no means “grown” but in the past years i’ve experienced alot, got to see alot of the world through traveling and promotion, and tried new things vocally that you will be able to hear on “The High Road”.

BGrimaldi01: The song ‘They Way You Do Me,’ you sound just like Beyonce… you’ve got a strong set of pipes!

BGrimaldi01: what songs on the album stick out to you as your favorites?

JoJoHighRoad2: Oh my gosh, thank you! That is quite a compliment!

JoJoHighRoad2: I really connect with “The High Road”, the title track of the album, also “How To Touch a Girl”, “The Way You Do Me’, “Good Ol’ “, but every one of them means something different to me, so its hard to not name them all!

BGrimaldi01: can’t wait to hear it all!

JoJoHighRoad2: i cant wait for you to hear them either!

BGrimaldi01: now you’re 15 right?

JoJoHighRoad2: yes i am. 16 in December.

BGrimaldi01: well happy early birthday!

JoJoHighRoad2: haha thanks!

BGrimaldi01: now…you sound, look, act like your about 25, you said you were 6 when you started acting…how old were you when you started your music career?

JoJoHighRoad2: lol, Ive been singing as long as i can remember. i have home videos of me singing at the age of 2.

BGrimaldi01: was it difficult being JoJo in school when you were doing all these things?

JoJoHighRoad2: I did my first t.v. show, “Kids Say The Darndest Things” with Bill Cosby when i was 6, and kids in my class and their parents started to treat me and my mom a little differently. They thought that i thought i was better then them. But i didnt think that at all! It made me feel sad, and when i did more shows and things like that, it just got worse. But thats why in those kinds of situations i try to take “The High Road”. lol. Thought i’d throw in a shameless plug for the album too…

BGrimaldi01: hahaha it worked

BGrimaldi01: so now what’s next for you?? tour plans, anything special planned for the album release? perhaps a love life??

JoJoHighRoad2: I think we’re having a big fun party for the album release! Im doing the Today’s Show the morning of the release and im so excited for that. And then later on in the day we’ll have the release party. We recently put a band together and they are all based in New England. Its alot of fun playing with them, they are so talented. And a tour is in the works… i really want to do one. I love traveling.

BGrimaldi01: nice! and the love life? anyone special going on the road with you?

JoJoHighRoad2: My mom will be on the road with me…

JoJoHighRoad2: not the answer u were looking for?

JoJoHighRoad2: lol

BGrimaldi01: hahaha not quite

JoJoHighRoad2: im young, im having fun

BGrimaldi01: that’s ok.. when you come through NYC you can call me anyways

JoJoHighRoad2:

BGrimaldi01: as you should!

BGrimaldi01: any last words for the fans out there reading?

JoJoHighRoad2: Thank you for supporting me, and please try to come to one of my shows if im in a town near you! I love meeting people, so please dont be shy to approach me and say hello if ya see me out and about. And also, check out my myspace! Its myspace.com/jojoonline

BGrimaldi01: sounds awesome, thanks soo much for your time!!!

JoJoHighRoad2: It was a pleasure, brendan, thank you!

BGrimaldi01: can’t wait to see more from you! good luck!!

JoJoHighRoad2: excellennnnttt thanx man!

Time to live it! I recently stumbled on this, and it just blew me away, so simple yet powerful. I haven’t gotten trained to it yet, but hoping that will happen in time….

In 2007 Apple introduced one of the biggest products in history which “revolutionized” (I hate using that word, but there’s not many others that can work in its spot) cell phones and the emerging smartphone business permanently. From the day Steve Jobs had his keynote introducing the phone my mouth instantly watered and I was determined to get one…asap. The phone had amazing features, went beyond what any other phone could do and was just plain old cool. A lot has changed since then, and with the latest announcement of the Windows Phone 7 series I figured I would take a long winded approach to what I think is good and bad about the 3 major players– the iPhone, Android and Windows Phone.

When the iPhone came out, much to my disappointment in myself, I demonstrated self-restraint and waited after the phone was released… at least until they lowered the price and then it was adios Verizon, hello iPhone. I loved it, there wasn’t really anything NOT to love about it, well other than the fact that it was on AT&T and I was living in the Hoboken/Manhattan at the time and that area was not their strong suit. In fact, it was horrible reception. BUT, the phone was in fact worth that small price, until I actually moved to Manhattan and I couldn’t get cell service on my walk to/from work and was spotty at best in my apartment. Just not a feasible reason to keep a phone, even if it was the “Jesus Phone” since it really just didn’t work where I was.

From there I hopped over to Sprint, who still to this day has the absolute best network I have experienced and I love them. I was praying of a Sprint iPhone. Then Apple introduced the iPhone 3G (still on AT&T) but this time I was residing in Connecticut where I still am today and had no will power on an instant switch to get the precious iPhone back. There were minimal noticeable changes other than on the back end which just made the phone move a little faster. Nothing that really bothered me but always nice to have that done.

As some time went on, companies were busting their asses to catch up to the iPhone, newer smartphones were being released what seemed to be a few a week! It wasn’t until Google unveiled their Android platform did phones (in my opinion) take a step in a new direction. Up until Android phones were introduced, other than adding backgrounds to some phones or rearranging some icons, you really couldn’t do that much at all to really snazz it up, or just make it YOURS. I of course jumped ship. I have the Moto Droid right now, and I do like it, though as always there’s room for improvement. And lastly yesterday Microsoft introduced their new Windows Phone Series 7 system. I figured it was time to pit these phones against each other based on my own opinions on what needs to happen to make this really work.

The iPhone was the first in a class of its own. Its features and look software and hardware were just so impressive at launch….in 2007. Since that time, it has held it’s same user interface from 2007 and while there has been some changes to the hardware, it is pretty much the same phone they introduced in 2007. 3 years ago! In tech years that’s an eternity. Apple is a company of pure innovation and  has shown no true progress in 3 years. Apple. Please. STEP IT UP. Phones now offer animated widgets, the ability to update Facebook with out going into a Facebook app, realtime weather, alerts on the lock screen. The same icons sit in the same spots with no sign of a change. My hoped had been lifted before the introduction of the iPad, however it was literally just a stretched out iPhone, even the little icons were the same size on the same type of main screen which are dwarfed in comparison, the only step forward is the addition of a background! Woo. Apple had such a great chance to really drop a WOW bomb with this and to me and many others it fell flat. Sure it would be great to have if I was commuting compared to just a regular iPod, but there’s really no feasible use for me in its current state.

What chaps my ass is that Apple has just an unbeatable operating system– Snow Leopard. the UI (user interface) is beautiful, it’s fast, it really sets the standard compared to what is currently out there. So the question is why aren’t they taking the impressive features they have and moving them to the iPhone? Apple is always striving to go 2 steps forward, so why aren’t they doing this with the iPhone, why are they in such control that after 3 years you can’t even change the background of your home screen. The only customization you can make is the background on the lock screen and where certain icons can move.

I am not the only one on this rant, its all over the Apple and techy blogs. TUAW had visitors submit an open letter type of what they want to see in the 4th generation of the iPhone.

The theme is obvious on what people want. CUSTOMIZATION. FUNCTION. NEW LOOKS.  The picture to the left is something someone submitted as an ideal “lock screen” for a new iteration of the iPhone. I think that while it stick with the same look of the iPhone it is so great to see all of your current alerts and important information right there with out having to even fish around for them on the phone itself. That functionality would be a huge improvement. Beyond that they need to take a step forward on the way the iPhone operates in the users eyes. No the icons don’t need to CHANGE, but widgets are key, they are interactive and easy to use. They need to take their attention to beauty and make the UI just that. New and beautiful. I am a MAC 100% but yes, I have abandoned the iPhone. Until they step up the game and really take this to a new level, I honestly feel like it’s old technology at this point, which is strange because it set the standard for NEW technology when it came out!

Also on a separate note– PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE expand carriers in the US, every other country has options, not us. AT&T is NOT a great carrier, their prices aren’t competitive and you have more of a chance of me coming back faster if you were on Verizon or Sprint than staying with AT&T.

When the Android phones were coming out, I obviously kept a very close eye on what was going on. The first one that splashed in the US was the T-Mobile myTouch 3G, that didn’t get much of my attention because I don’t see T-Mobile as a carrier with any quality service (as far as actual network and coverage is concerned). Sprint took on 2 quickly after, the HTC Hero which I did drop my iPhone for which was heavily touted in the press as the hottest and most quality phone on the market. Well, despite some of its positives, it just did not work fantastic, there were too many bugs and I had to have 2 replacements within a month and 1/2. Not a good relationship. I decided to make the jump (again…yes) to the Motorola Droid. Verizon and Motorola made such a significant splash with this phone, especially targeted to the lack of features that the iPhone had in comparison. It was a direct slap to Apple, and I think they had proper grounds. I like the Droid, I am satisfied with it, it is powered by widgets, it has a lot of fun things you can add to customize, however for me it is STILL behind. Why is the grid so defined and spaced out, why are the icons SO small, if this is all customizable, why can’t I arrange things in a funky order? Why must I have the icon AND text for the icon. Little picky things yes, but for the customizable phone it definitely limits what you CAN customize. I want cool. It’s getting there, and yes it’s in its infancy stage with a lot of development ahead of it, early adopters pay that price, but I think that the potential is there. There’s one company below who is developing something for Android that I am really excited about…

Here is something that a company TAT has developed for the Android platform which I think should have been something integrated from the start. And it’s STILL not ready, but I definitely put my e-mail in to get on board when it DOES surface for consumers. The video does a much better job illustrating the differences, and it still isn’t “perfect” but it is a lot more customizable than the minimal “customizable” features of the Android system as it exists today.

This is the first interface that I actually think is ATTRACTIVE, FUNCTIONAL, and USER FOCUSED.

Lastly, the newest phone series to be announced, the Windows Phone. I was excited for the announcement to see what exactly they had up their sleeves, as they are coming from behind I expected them to have something really mind blowing in store for us. I absolutely love the interface they have for the Zune so I assumed that it would be just as great if not better. There are aspects of the phone that lean on that but if you want to scroll alllll the way back up to the top above my rant, you can see the home screen of the Windows 7 phones. What on EARTH were they thinking. Some say its simple but effective, I say its boring, has its positives by showing alerts but oh my god is it boring. There’s no life to it. I couldn’t have been more disappointed. The rest of the features are quite attractive so why did they make the home screen so damn boring. As expected they are only the software side of this. That is Microsoft though. Regular phone makers will be taking the operative system and using it for their phones, so really nothing special. Blah.

My recommendation. GOOGLE– Work with TAT asap, even looking through their other works they are really talented and have an amazing knack for some killer UI. With their ideas executed it would be a hard phone to beat when on the right hardware.

APPLE- Wake up, the iPhone was revolutionary in 2007. It’s 2010. Time to reinvent this wheel. It’s not broken but it needs to be fixed. Something FRESH AND NEW. PLEASE.

WINDOWS- Ugly. Come on, show some creative spirit.

For me, I am sticking with my Android but will no doubt head back to the iPhone when it reinvents itself.

So in 2003 I presented a “bid” for a board position for NEACURH which was a residential life student run organization. NEACURH was probably the best thing that happened to me in college and ranks up high in overall life experiences. The other day someone from Marist is looking to apply for the same position which was both a regional and national board position. I found my bid so I thought I would just pop it up

Click here to see the bid!

Today, Apple finally sent out their OFFICIAL invitation to the rumored January 27th press event. as you can see they are advertising their “latest creation.” If this isn’t the year long rumored Apple tablet touchscreen, there will be a LOT of pissed off Apple fans. If it is, I may pee my pants.

I know this show has been on for a few months now, and I am trying my VERY VERY best to avoid it at all costs, but MTV’s Jersey Shore is getting more and more enticing by the moment. I don’t know how much longer I can hold out. EEEK!

When I was at AOL Music I did a series of “AIM Interviews” over AIM with some pretty awesome (and some kinda awesome) people. Popping up my interview with Fergie. Enjoy.BrendanInMusic: Hey Ferg!!
TheFergieFerg: whats up
BrendanInMusic: how’s it goin with you?? thanks for chatting with us!
TheFergieFerg: glad to be here
BrendanInMusic: you must have a crazy schedule with the release of the dutchess, what have you been doin?
TheFergieFerg: a headlining tour
TheFergieFerg: with the peas
TheFergieFerg: finishing and releasing my solo album the dutchess
TheFergieFerg: and filming a small role in a robert rodriguez/quentin tarrantino directed film called grindhouse
BrendanInMusic: wow, you’ve definitely been busy!
TheFergieFerg: you could say that!
BrendanInMusic: so what made you go solo for this record??
TheFergieFerg: its been a dream of mine since i was seven years old
TheFergieFerg: and finally now it feels right
BrendanInMusic: was it nerve wracking being on your own for the first time??
TheFergieFerg: it is sometimes when i have to perform by myself
TheFergieFerg: because i have to hold own the stage
BrendanInMusic: so you perform your own songs on the peas tour.. how does the audience react??
TheFergieFerg: so far people have been so wonderful to me
TheFergieFerg: london bridge is such a hype live song
BrendanInMusic: apparently, london bridge was barely out before it hit number one… did it shock you how big it hit??
TheFergieFerg: yes because i had been waiting so long to release something on my own and then it came out and things just went so fast
BrendanInMusic: the whole cd is pretty damn amazing
TheFergieFerg: thank you so much that mean a lot to me
BrendanInMusic: what songs stand out to you the most on the cd??
TheFergieFerg: i was just going to ask u the same question
BrendanInMusic: haha, we’re connected 
BrendanInMusic: i think for me, all that ive got and big girls don’t cry
BrendanInMusic: and of course london bridge is my ringtone!
TheFergieFerg: ooh you have a sensitive side
BrendanInMusic: you really show off your chops as an amazing singer on this record!
TheFergieFerg: big girls don’t cry was written before i was in the black eyed peas
TheFergieFerg: it’s about independence
TheFergieFerg: and all that i got is about loving someone for inner beauty
TheFergieFerg: all of my songs on the dutchess are true stories
BrendanInMusic: well great job ! haha!
TheFergieFerg: you never forget the truth
BrendanInMusic: so you’ve definitely got the inner beauty down
BrendanInMusic: but there’s no denying the outter
BrendanInMusic: on maxim’s sexiest list
BrendanInMusic: is that crazy for you??
TheFergieFerg: thanks romeo
BrendanInMusic: (ps.. i am in fact single  )
BrendanInMusic: so do you consider yourself sexy??
TheFergieFerg: i’m not that girl
BrendanInMusic: do you think that the press usually portrays you different?
TheFergieFerg: alot of people portray me as a tomboy but don’t know my romantic girlie side
BrendanInMusic: i have heard a FEW things about some guy Josh you’re seeing
TheFergieFerg: like what?????????????
BrendanInMusic: been hearing rumors about a possible, engagement.. marriage?
TheFergieFerg: never been either (married or engaged)
BrendanInMusic: ahh so i still have a chance 
BrendanInMusic: haha
BrendanInMusic: got worried you were cheating on me… haha 
TheFergieFerg: i dont cheat anymore
BrendanInMusic: uhoh, so there are many a scorned boys out there??
TheFergieFerg: i doubt it
BrendanInMusic: so what are some crazy rumors you have heard about yourself??
BrendanInMusic: any you wanna squash.. or hell wanna start one? lol
TheFergieFerg: that i’ve been prgenant five times
TheFergieFerg: never been pregnant
BrendanInMusic: haha consider it known 
TheFergieFerg: do you have myspace page
TheFergieFerg: lol
BrendanInMusic: haha i do!
BrendanInMusic: you’re actually my friend 
TheFergieFerg: i knew that
TheFergieFerg: how many friends do you have
BrendanInMusic: ahh a little over 300 “friends” (who brought the cool kid)
TheFergieFerg: aol did
BrendanInMusic: haha love it 
BrendanInMusic: i can only imagine how many friends you have
BrendanInMusic: so your second single, fergalicious…
BrendanInMusic: tell us about that..
TheFergieFerg: it’s a take on afro rican’s give it all you got and jj fad’s supersonic, both of which were huge party/dance songs when i was growing up
BrendanInMusic: nice! and your buddy wil.i.am is on that track no?
TheFergieFerg: yes
TheFergieFerg: i am signed to his label and he’s an executive producer of the album
TheFergieFerg: he and i had fun doing that song
TheFergieFerg: we are from the same generation of music
BrendanInMusic: did it almost feel like cheating when you were doing your own stuff with him?
TheFergieFerg: no because this is a plan i had in action before i even joined the band
BrendanInMusic: and you seem to be doin this solo thing a bit different than justin, beyonce etc… you’re still touring with the peas, and wil was so involved…
TheFergieFerg: i do everything differently
BrendanInMusic: well it seems to be working 
BrendanInMusic: what else do you have planned..
TheFergieFerg: thank you
TheFergieFerg: a day off
BrendanInMusic: haha what would you do with that day off??
TheFergieFerg: absolutely nothing
BrendanInMusic: sounds like a nice day off!!
TheFergieFerg: exactly!
BrendanInMusic: in glamorous you talk a lot about your “normal” life
BrendanInMusic: your mustang, taco bell
TheFergieFerg: it’s about the dichotomy of the way i grew up and the life i’m living now
TheFergieFerg: i’m still the same girl who isn’t moved out of mom’s yet i get to stay in these lavish hotels etc. i still go directly from the airport to jack in the box or taco bell or dell taco because they are my comfort foods
TheFergieFerg: i had that mustang for over 12 years
BrendanInMusic: that’s crazy, i am assume you’ve since upgraded 
BrendanInMusic: what’s your craziest purchase since you hit it big?
TheFergieFerg: i’ve just started buying expensive bags
TheFergieFerg: like the fendi b bag
TheFergieFerg: and a brand new big burberry with a gold chain
TheFergieFerg: i wouldn’t buy things like that before because it wasn’t realistic
BrendanInMusic: dream come true??
TheFergieFerg: definitely 
BrendanInMusic: nice!
TheFergieFerg: :-*
BrendanInMusic: well we know you’re a busy girl
TheFergieFerg: thanks for chatting me
BrendanInMusic: thank YOU so much!
BrendanInMusic: congrats on all the success!!!
TheFergieFerg: xoxoxoxo

When I was at AOL Music I did a series of “AIM Interviews” over AIM with some pretty awesome (and some kinda awesome) people. Popping up my interview with Justin Timberlake. Enjoy.Brendaninmusic: hey there Justin. what’s up??
JustinsLoveSound: hey what’s happening?
Brendaninmusic: not too much. thanks for chatting today!
Brendaninmusic: where are you IMing us from??
JustinsLoveSound: backstage at The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
Brendaninmusic: nice
Brendaninmusic: any other fun people back there with you?
JustinsLoveSound: well there’s Jo…
JustinsLoveSound: as in Jo Momma
Brendaninmusic: hahaha
Brendaninmusic: i was askin for that one
Brendaninmusic: are you in crazy schedule mode with the album release? 
JustinsLoveSound: Yes…to say the least
Brendaninmusic: what have you been doin???
JustinsLoveSound: promo, promo, sleep, promo
Brendaninmusic: ooh you actually get to sleep in there? sweet! haha
Brendaninmusic: i have to ask though
Brendaninmusic: how sick are you of being asked how you’re bringing sexy back, and where sexy went??
JustinsLoveSound: SOOOOOO sick of it!
Brendaninmusic: hahaha i can imagine!
JustinsLoveSound: everybody is a comedian
Brendaninmusic: everyone seems to be jumping on the “bringing sexy back” bandwagon
Brendaninmusic: AL GORE quoted you at the VMAs? is it all a little crazy for you? 
JustinsLoveSound: to be honest i didn’t expect it to be such a big catch phrase
Brendaninmusic: my mom keeps asking me if i brought sexy back… its a little disturbing 
JustinsLoveSound: sorry buddy about your mom
Brendaninmusic: hahha. it’s all good
Brendaninmusic: who is the weirdest person you’ve heard use it?
JustinsLoveSound: i don’t know about weird, but i certainly didn’t expect our former Vice President to use it. 
Brendaninmusic: i don’t really think anyone did. lol 
Brendaninmusic: ‘Sexyback’ is such a different sound for you 
Brendaninmusic: on first listen you almost can’t recognize it’s YOU 
Brendaninmusic: what brought you to change your sound so much 
JustinsLoveSound: it wasn’t really a conscious effort, i just like the way it sounded when i put my voice through a guitar amp. 
JustinsLoveSound: i thought it fit the track. 
Brendaninmusic: did you ever freak out that it wasn’t going to click with your fans? 
JustinsLoveSound: i don’t think you can be in the studio and say that to yourself. you might syke yourself out of something amazing. 
JustinsLoveSound: i think that being an artist you try new things and i think at the end of the day if you love it then that’s what is most important. 
Brendaninmusic: well it looks like your intuition was right 
JustinsLoveSound: thanks 
Brendaninmusic: did you feel a lot of pressure after the monstrous success of ‘Justified’? 
JustinsLoveSound: i wanted to make something that was different from Justified… so i tried to keep my mind off of that even though i love the sound of that album. 
Brendaninmusic: The sound is definitely unique… you worked it pretty well 
Brendaninmusic: the album is called‘Furturesex/Lovesounds,’ also a song on the album 
Brendaninmusic: what exactly does that mean? 
JustinsLoveSound: it’s just kind of a culmination of songs’ moods on the record. 
JustinsLoveSound: i thought that it best described the overall sound 
JustinsLoveSound: it’s funny too, the first half is the future/sex mood…and the second half is the love/sounds. 
Brendaninmusic: so the first half is the one you play late at night, eh? 
Brendaninmusic:
JustinsLoveSound: the first half is the club…the second half is the “aftermath.” 
Brendaninmusic: what is YOUR love sound? 
Brendaninmusic: at this point, i think mine would probably sound like a dying giraffe J 
JustinsLoveSound: you might want to keep that to yourself…ha ha 
Brendaninmusic: advice from the master 
Brendaninmusic: you were just on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine with the headline ‘Wet Dream — The New King of Sex Gets Loose’ 
Brendaninmusic: do you think you deserve that title?
JustinsLoveSound: um…i don’t make up the titles 
JustinsLoveSound: i write the songs 
Brendaninmusic: do you think of yourself as a sex symbol?
JustinsLoveSound: not exactly 
Brendaninmusic: how would you classify Justin Timberlake? 
JustinsLoveSound: a damn lucky guy 
Brendaninmusic: hahah 
Brendaninmusic: i don’t think anyone would argue that one! 
Brendaninmusic: you worked with a lot of big name producers on this CD 
Brendaninmusic: how did your vision for the album flow with them 
JustinsLoveSound: well i really found the chemistry with Timbaland
JustinsLoveSound: We went into the studio with nothing in mind and came up with songs that all sounded cohesive. 
Brendaninmusic: you two definitely worked some magic… word was that you guys did a song with Nelly Furtado but that didn’t seem to surface. True story? 
JustinsLoveSound: true story 
Brendaninmusic: will that song ever see the light of day? 
JustinsLoveSound: probably 
JustinsLoveSound: most likely 
JustinsLoveSound: we will have to see 
Brendaninmusic: are there any other artists you’d like to do something with? 
JustinsLoveSound: i don’t know…i don’t like to force collaborations. 
Brendaninmusic: out of all that you’ve done, who do you think vibed the best with you? 
JustinsLoveSound: definitely Timbaland 
Brendaninmusic: nice 
Brendaninmusic: the guitar interlude after ‘Love Stoned’ is sick 
JustinsLoveSound: thanks 
Brendaninmusic: I read that it was inspired by the band Interpol
Brendaninmusic: what other music are you listening to these days? 
JustinsLoveSound: i listen to everything. i’m really loving the last Arctic Monkey’s album. But lately i’ve been going back and listening to a lot of Johnny Cash
Brendaninmusic: nice 
Brendaninmusic: so you’re the kinda guy who is no stranger to the tabloids 
Brendaninmusic: all of your relationships tend to be very public 
Brendaninmusic: what’s it like to be so out there in front of everybody? 
JustinsLoveSound: the tabloids, although they may seem like they are fun to read to a lot of people, are sensationalized dramatizations. they aren’t real. 
JustinsLoveSound: so, i choose to stay out of them, not read them, and to continue to live my life. 
Brendaninmusic: do you feel that you’ve been able to maintain your own personal life well enough even with people trying to creep in? 
JustinsLoveSound: of course. 
JustinsLoveSound: hey man, Leno is calling. 
Brendaninmusic: well speaking of personal life, i know you have a lot goin’ on, but thanks for spending time with us today! 
JustinsLoveSound: thanks for chatting 
Brendaninmusic: thanks to you! 
JustinsLoveSound: take care! 
Brendaninmusic: bye 

Today I got to pick up my new car, a 2010 Volkswagen CC which I love, such an amazing ride, very luxurious in and outside. EXTREMELY happy!!! WOO!

Ok famous people, if you’re on the A list or the Z list, you still don’t have the above law ability to drive drunk and then get mad when caught. Publicity DUIs are also very transparent, it’s pathetic really.

Just Sayin…

BTW… Perez Hilton’s taste in music is embarassing. And I can say that with credit, even with what music that I listen to!

YES! I can clean! I am quite proud of the shape my kitchen was in when I finished Enjoy my work of art— or just take a quick tour of my kitchen (aka there’s one more photo after the jump…).

Last week an old college friend sent me a link to a Time Magazine Article she felt I would particularly be interested in. She was 100% correct. I am heavily interested in corporate branding, and I have a clear geek powered love of fonts.While I got my 2010 Ikea Catalog, I hadn’t even had a chance to open it up, but I ran quickly to grab it as soon as I finished the article. I felt I was crazy for being angered by Ikea’s decision to drop their visual voice, the font that they use on all of their promotional items, all of their ads, all of their catalogs, and I am sure many many places, to use the boring, overused and under-professional font Verdana.

I have always had a hate relationship with that font, I think it’s boring, oddly spaced, and just looks very blah. I was shocked that a company that is focused on the trendy look took a huge step back by doing this. Their PR spokeswoman claims that it is more cost effective to use this as it is adaptable to more languages, which really if you are a giant company like Ikea, you should be able to have your font converted to any language you would like. Many people have commented that this just sounds like the “cheap way out.”

I was surprised that this change even made it to an article in Time Magazine, as if I would be one of the few crazy people who this really bothered, but much to my surprise this lit up the online social world. Within days there were thousands of Tweets out against the change, and there is even a new petition online to stop Ikea from using Verdana which at the moment I type is just shy of 4,000 signatures! Even my go-to blog on corporate branding and design BrandNew, better late than never, finally had a post up where one commenter suggests “Why Not Comic Sans,” which in the design world is one of the most frowned upon element.

I realize this is pretty small in the spectrum of the world, and all other things I COULD be focusing my attention on, but I have to say… BAD MOVE Ikea…BAD.

Links:
Time Magazine Article
Online Petition Against Ikea’s Verdana Use
BrandNew’s Coverage

Today the Grimaldi Thorsell(holla roomie!) household, family and friends say goodbye to a sacred piece of the family. Yes today our little Rocco the cat is getting his manhood STRIPPED of him, and his HUGE cat balls are being removed. Now for those who haven’t seen, these are truly gigantic Cadburry Mini Egg sized balls. For a second I thought about having them bronzed because of their massive size, but quickly realized that would probably be THE single most disgusting thing I would have ever done. Ever. Espscially since these little bronze nuggets would probably be almost a trophy and prized posession of the fucked up animal fetishes of Michael Vick. Consider this an open letter to Mr. Vick. Listen Michael. If you so much as THINK of taking or using Rocco’s oversized balls, possibly as a baseketball, football, etc for one of your animal GAMES, I will come after you. My posse of both 8 pounders cat AND dog are at risk, and I will NOT have your grubby little hands near them. I don’t care how many times Mary J begs, there WILL be drama. That is all.

Sorry Rocco, you will be just fine though. I am leaving your claws even though that could mean my furniture could end up looking like Amy Winehouse’s hair. I love you that much, but lets get down to it, they will also be some of your only weapons against that psycho Michael Vick. Use them wisely.

If you ever need to cure a case of uncontrollable laughter, DON’T ever turn to Chelsea. Luckily she is looking out for the welfare of others…Thanks Ann Curry for the supporting role.

Yikes. In two seconds that treeslopous is about to have 3 tasty egg rolls!

This apparently was some old school Chelsea bits, but may be one of the funniest ones I have ever seen. I would kill to have Chelsea chaperon my dates!!!

The folks obviously went in order from #10 to #1. First up was Michael Sarver who I had fully expected to bust out the country music but he opened the show with I’m “In Love With a Girl” by Gavin DeGraw and his other song was “Closer” by Ne-Yo. The first I believe he did on the show and his voice was really impressive, he has definitely been taking advantage of a vocal coach since he was voted off.

Next up was the crazy one, Megan Joy. I had lower than low expectations for her. On the show in the finals she was horrendous and I was not really looking forward to her performance. Wow did she surprise me, again she did one song she did on the show, ‘Put Your Records On’ by Corrine Bailey Rae which was awesome, again really cleaned up her vocals. I was shocked by how much I enjoyed it. As what I found would be a constant, she mumbled what her next song was, and of course I couldn’t understand a single word, but it was “Tears Dry on Their Own” by the amazingly crazy cracked out Amy Winehouse. Now I have publicly and constantly voiced my hatred towards Amy Winehouse. I loathed every second of “Rehab” and I can’t stand her being a part of the human race. With that said there are 2 of her songs I actually ENJOY. Yes, I said it… enjoy! One is “Back to Black” and the other is “Tears Dry On Their Own,” so I was pleased that this was on and enjoyed it significantly more than Amy’s version, I am not sure if this is because of Amy hatred, but Megan was really on her game and it looked like she was ACTUALLY TRYING, not like during the actual competition. To my surprise she was literally one of my favorites of the night.

Scott MacIntyre brought the excitement of the beginning of the concert to a screeching halt when he started his two song set with “Bend & Break” by Keane. I don’t love or hate Keane, but what a slow slow song that people don’t really know. Great way to kill the party Scott. Then Scott performed a crowd pleaser of Vanessa Carlton’s “A Thousand Miles.” Now I could not resist the joke when the lyrics  are “I would walk a thousand miles if I could just see you” as the BLIND person sang it. Ironic and couldn’t go without a few chuckles. He did a good job though he did hit a puberty moment with a bad voice crack in what I assume was his attempt at a notable high note. No thanks, this will be the end of his big time music career.

Poor Lil Rounds definitely took a beating during the season as not having much of an identity. I didn’t really agree with the judges but she definitely picked the right songs for the show. She did a medly of “Be Without You” and “Just Fine” from Mary J. Blige which are 2 of my favs of Mary J and do hit my top songs of all time list, and her voice was on fire so she nailed it. Next was “No One” by Alicia Keys which again was a slam dunk. Lil Rounds had me until she whipped our her last song. Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) by Beyoncé. This song couldn’t be more annoying if it tried, PLUS it lasted about 10 minutes. I literally wanted to jam something in my ears to stop it. I am however pretending that didn’t happen so I can give props to some solid Lil performances.

Anoop Desai. You bore me. I have no love for my nicknamed “Apoop.” His set consisted of Always On My Mind, Ne-Yo’s “Mad” and “My Prerogative” (I STILL like Britney’s version the best). None of it was entertaining for me but if I only knew what was next. Matt Giraud. Song choices, horrendous. Voice, horrendous. He sang with some type of slur so the two songs I KNEW, The Fray’s “You Found Me” and “Georgia on My Mind” I couldn’t even clearly hear the words! But before those crowd un-pleasers he sang “Hard to Handle” by Otis Redding which I have never heard of and was utterly boring. Bye Matt.

This brought us to the intermission time so that means everyone who has performed comes out for some big production together.Megan & Lil sang “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” Scott & Matt did Billy Joel’s “Tell Her About It” with dueling pianos, and Michael got to do his own rendition of Elvis’ “Suspicious Minds” which was awesome. Anoop and the rest of the crew got back on stage for Beggin’ which is apparently a  Four Seasons/Madcon song. Never heard of it. They did a good job but not knowing the song kinda made it a little more anticlimactic for me.

Act 2 begins. I really am now just on my Kris high, ready for him to come on. My second favorite from the season Allison Iraheta kicked off part 2 with “So What” from Pink, Joplin’s “Cry Baby” and ended with Barracuda. She had amazing energy and she definitely kicked ass. Perfect songs for her voice and she definitely ruled the stage.

Danny Gokey wins the award for most random set with two songs that just DIDN’T belong and two he did fantastically. His delivery of all of them were good but “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” by Michael Jackson and “Maria Maria” by Santana were just REALLY bad song choices. WHO let him do this. Bad move Danny. The last two of his set were a dual run of Rascal Flatts songs, “What Hurts the Most” and “My Wish.” Both were spectacular. I wish he had a better first two songs but the ending was enjoyable.

No one expected me to like Adam Lambert at all. Not a second of it, and if you know me you would be certain to say that with out doubt. AAAAANNNND you’d be absolutely CORRECT. Adam was horrible. He hasn’t gotten the hint that he does NOT have to SCREAM for every song, he was dressed in a way that may give me nightmares and just did some horrendous songs and with his screaming I couldn’t really make much of them. I wont go into to much detail but this was his set list:
Whole Lotta Love, Led Zeppelin
Starlight, Muse
Mad World, Tears for Fears (I hated it the first two times, this made #3.)
Slow Ride, Foghat (with Allison Iraheta, THANK GOD, she made that 5 minutes somewhat barable)
Life on Mars/Fame/Let’s Dance, a David Bowie medly. The worst part of the entire evening was after ruining anything good about “Life on Mars” he ripped his studded floor length “diva coat” and STOMPED not even pranced, around the stage with a light blue feather boa to “Fame.” I could not hate you more Adam. Nope. Not a bit.

Finally. My time has come. Kris Allen. Breaking it down:
Kanye West, “Heartless”
The Killers, “All the Things That I’ve Done”
Bill Withers, “Ain’t No Sunshine”
Matchbox 20, “Bright Lights”
and lastly Hey Jude with the other 9 joining him at the end.

Phenomenal. His guitar playing, song choices, and most of all singing. The RIGHT MAN WON. He was great, and my bias doesn’t even matter. I loved it. I wish he would have performed ‘Falling Slowly” from the movie Once which was my favorite performance of his from the show, but he picked songs perfect for his voice, and RANDOM but songs I love and just killed it.

For the Group Idol Finale everyone burst into the ever so popular “Don’t Stop Believing” with a random sprinkle of “Na Na Hey Hey Goodbye” in the middle. From the year of Jordan Sparks, they really made a big deal for the very end for her as the winner, which wasn’t really the case so I felt Kris got jipped a bit, but all in all a great show!

Maybe it’s because the last time I paid attention to a  gas station air machine I was probably 5-6 years old, but I do remember he just rode one up and filled his tires. When did air start to cost money? Aren’t gas stations getting enough money from us now? Can’t we get a little free air???