Your One-Stop Shop For All Things Unimportant

Chanson du Jour

2012-01-05T22:42:00.001-06:00

This guy has a pretty unique voice. But, I really liked it.

You Are My Sister by Antony and the Johnsons

Chanson du Jour

2012-01-03T21:37:00.002-06:00

Here's an obscure band for you. We passed up playing songs by Purity Ring, James Blake (although he almost made it), Mount Kimbie, Nicolas Jaar, and Lady Lamb the Beekeeper. They just weren't awesome enough to make the blog.

But, I did like this song.

Prodigal Daughter by Pearl and the Beard

Chanson du Jour

2011-12-12T22:02:00.002-06:00

Subpop Records in Seattle is a great label to investigate if you are looking for a new band. They have almost impeccable taste (that right is reserved for me, and only me) and have a great ear for greatness. This is a new band to the Subpop group that I heard on Acoustic Cafe tonight.

Rivers and Roads by The Head and The Heart

Chanson du Jour

2011-12-08T22:22:00.002-06:00

Today's song is a competition. Which song has a more frenetic, spastic group and video?

Up Up Up by Givers

or

Cousins by Vampire Weekend

PS - I have the Cousins video on my iPod and my daughter loves to watch it. It makes me so proud.

Chanson du Jour

2011-12-06T00:40:00.002-06:00

Jenfra heard this song on the awesome local radio channel KXT 91.7 and loved it. She dropped by tonight to bring the wife a birthday present and suggested I play this fellow on the blog. I, having never heard of this guy in my life, was intrigued. I gave it a listen and found it to be blog-worthy. So, everybody enjoy...

You Were Never There by Diego Garcia

Chanson du Jour

2011-12-01T22:48:00.003-06:00

This song is for the newly returned missionary, my brother Big Al. I just want you to know that I liked the new Coldplay album so much I bought it the other day. Also it is for my wife who loves these guys as well.

Paradise by Coldplay

Watching this video reminded me of another British production that involved dressing up in animal suits; the tv show Trigger Happy TV. Anyone remember that show on Comedy Central? It was probably my favorite show of the late 90s. Here is a little clip that gives you only a small idea of how great this show is.

Trigger Happy TV Clip

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-30T22:25:00.001-06:00

A band from Scotland. I don't like some of their slower songs, but this one is pretty catchy. They have some weird music videos, too, but this one is pretty funny.

DIY by A Band Called Quinn

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-25T18:20:00.002-06:00

I heard this song on a Matador Records cd that I bought years ago. Matador Records, of course, is the record label that Pavement was on for years and years. This band is also on the label, apparently. Good song + Good label + Japanese = I liked it immediately. And since we are wishing a big Happy Birthday to the editor of the blog today, I figured it was apropos to play this song.

Happy Birthday by Pizzicato Five

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-23T22:44:00.003-06:00

While I have been gone there have been a few musicians that have really become big. Most of them are garbage. A few of them have songs worth listening to. Here are some ascending musicians of the past couple years.

The Cave by Mumford & Sons

If you haven't heard this next song, you should really re-examine your life and what you do while in the car. It is played on literally every station except the oldies and country station here in Dallas. Top 40, lite rock, mix 102.9, the alternative station, the rock station....all of them. It is the most ubiquitous song of the past few months. Overplayed though it is, I still like it.

Pumped Up Kicks by Foster The People

Last time this next artist made it on this blog, I was criticized. The criticizer has since apologized for making fun of me when she herself discovered the greatness of this next artist. This artist has exploded on the scene in the past year with a new album that spent months at #1 in several countries and several big singles. I looked at getting concert tickets for her (but she can't stay on tour because of laryngitis issues) but the show was sold out with tickets selling for $350 a ticket. That puts her up with the big guns as far as ticket prices go. But, she is greatness. Just FYI this video has over 170,000,000 views on Youtube.

Rolling In The Deep by Adele

And last but not least, this band has also become pretty big over the past couple years.

Tighten Up by The Black Keys

There have been other bands that have exploded onto the scene in the last year like Cage the Elephant, but you lucky readers learned about that band from this blog long before they ever hit the radio. You are welcome.

Enjoy your turkey and football.

Copy Or Not?

2011-11-23T22:37:00.003-06:00

To Whom It May Concern (all of my one reader):

Anonymous claimed that the yodeling cowboy song by Wylie and the Wild West borrows liberally from Me and Bobby McGee by Janis Joplin. You be the judge.

It took a while for me, but I heard it. It doesn't bother me too much.

Sincerely,

The Expert

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-22T23:12:00.002-06:00

Today's song is inspired by my wife who is downstairs listening to Pandora, discovering new music. You may recognize this song from the movie Moneyball. Anonymous, make sure Mrs. Anonymous hears this...I am pretty sure she liked this song.

The Show by Lenka

And no, this girl is NOT Billy Beane's daughter. She's Australian.

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-21T22:34:00.002-06:00

If you are anything like me, when you hear the name Wylie Gustafson, you automatically think "oh yeah, the yodeling cowboy that sings the Yahoo! jingle". Yeah, I thought you knew that. Enjoy this rock/cowboy/yodel song.

Yodeling Fool by Wylie and The Wild West

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-18T22:13:00.001-06:00

Who knew that Dr. House could sing? I did. He has a blues album, and it a'int half bad. Here he is on Jools.

Swanee River by Hugh Laurie

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-17T22:07:00.002-06:00

This awesome band opened for Devotchka several months ago when we went to see them with the Smeltzers. They were pretty stinking awesome. I wish I could have caught their entire set. Everybody put your hands together for Fort Worth, TX's own Telegraph Canyon, performing at the local art museum.

Safe on the Outside by Telegraph Canyon

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-16T22:05:00.001-06:00

This lady is on Jack Johnson's label. She is pretty solid.

Bitter Heart by Zee Avi

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-15T23:41:00.000-06:00

A little underground rapper from Canada.

Rose Garden by Shad

Chanson du Jour

2011-11-14T21:30:00.001-06:00

What the heck, let's keep posting songs. This is the band that will be opening for Radiohead this tour. March 5 in Dallas if anyone is interested.

For 12 by Other Lives

Chanson du Jour

2010-09-16T07:47:00.003-05:00

Hey, my computer is letting me access my own blogs again. So, I can resume my posts from my home away from home, here on the back row of room 124 in the MET building. No big flashy return today, just picking up where we left off.

Circle of Fifths by Clinic

Chanson du Jour

2010-07-08T20:59:00.002-05:00

I am much more consistent at this when I am not in school, huh? That could be good or bad. Here is today's effort.

(Even If You Die On The) Ocean by Saturday Looks Good To Me

Songs Of The Day

2010-07-07T16:47:00.003-05:00

In case you ever wondered where these songs of the day come from, I will tell you. I frequent a few places to hear about bands I have never heard of. They are in descending order...

1) Itunes - if you don't go here to hear about new bands or bands you have never heard of you are crazy. They have the genius, recommendations, and albums that others have bought that are all majorly useful

2) Metacritic.com - this lists the albums coming out each week. If they look interesting, I take note and check them out.

3) Pandora.com - Everyone knows about this place now, but they play songs that are similar to ones you set up. It's not nearly as efficient as the others though because you can only forward through so many songs per hour. But, it is pretty good.

4) Youtube - on the side column there are videos from other bands that are similar to the one you are watching or on the same label or have the same lead singer, etc.

You go to these places enough and you end up with this: (Click to Enlarge)

This is one of 5 pages just like this that I have. I keep a running list of over 100 bands that I want to check out. If they are no good, they get crossed off the list. It's actually a physical list in a notebook that goes with me everywhere (actually, it just stays in my backpack). This is actually the page I am currently on, so you all have a sneak peek at the upcoming songs of the day. In the left column you will see Fanfarlo, Kings of Convenience, and Tunng. The last three songs of the day. You now know what is coming up. But, you will still be surprised. Maybe.

Anyways. That is how this magic happens. Any questions? Direct them somewhere else.

Blogger out.

Chanson du Jour

2010-07-07T16:23:00.003-05:00

The song of the day today was almost Darling Dear by Little Fish because the lead singer and I have pretty much the same morning routine. But, they lost me there at the end. But, I still think it's a pretty cool song.

But, today's song is a completely different tune than that one.

It's Because...We've Got Hair by Tunng

Chanson du Jour

2010-06-29T23:12:00.002-05:00

Have I got a treat for you today. I am in a good mood. I have two days of class, a test on Friday morning at 7:30, and then I am off for 3 weeks (assuming I pass the test). I needed a little study break and you all are the beneficiary of said break. Enjoy 3 songs from today's artist, straight from Norway: Kings of Convenience.

We will start with the most silly and move to the more melancholy.

I'd Rather Dance With You

Misread

Cayman Islands

SDKJ Chronicles

2010-06-10T23:33:00.002-05:00

Unwitting Participants

People have heard all kinds of awful things about how difficult medical school is, how high the divorce rate is, how competitive it is, and all manner of other things that I have found to be somewhat exaggerated. Med school is not too tough. The material is not too tough. It's just a lot. Volume is the problem, not difficulty. I think most med students would agree with that stellar assessment. That being said, the volume can overtake your life if you let it, which can cause mental breakdowns, difficulties in your personal life, etc., but that is only if you let the voluminous material run your life. I have chosen not to.

But, my med school does some perplexing things to its students, all in the name of better education and better preparation to be better doctors. We have precious little free time and precious little time to master all the material presented to us. Yet, they feel the need to pack on extra assignments and programs that seemingly have little value, but take up some of our free time. Today we will talk about one such program.

Let's face it baby boomers, y'all are getting old. Just look in the mirror, take a deep breath, and say it out loud. It will be cathartic. I do the same thing each morning. I look in the mirror, take a deep breath, and say "Man, you have razor sharp wit, dashing good looks, and an intelligence unmatched by anyone on earth". It really helps to say the hard truths to yourself sometimes. So, as future doctors it is our charge to take care of the health care needs of you geriatric patients (or "greedy geezers" as the Obama administration likes to call you). Speaking of which, maybe we won't have to take care of you because the Obamacare plan dictates that no money will go toward healthcare for the elderly, so all this training might be pointless. (Had to.) I digress. So, because there will be a great number of elderly patients in our future waiting rooms, my school has developed a little side "project" for us to do to help us learn more about geriatric health care - because it differs from regular health care.

We call it the SAGE program (something something Geriatric Education...I don't know...just call it SAGE like the rest of us for crying out loud). The program includes lectures during each of our classes talking about geriatric specific problems/issues pertaining to what we are learning. A few questions will inevitably end up on the test. No one really likes the lectures so no one really prepares for the test questions. They trip us up sometimes. Another part of the SAGE program is going to the home of an elderly person in the community and doing some sort of health-related assignment with them.

Website here for the truly bored.

Now, we will get to the meaning of the title of this post: Unwitting Participants. I have recently found out that the SAGE program is part of a federally-funded research project that a couple of our faculty members are doing on the effectiveness of geriatric education in medical school. In other words, we are the lab rats for the researchers. They are trying things out on us. Seeing what things work and what things don't work. Secondly, the geriatric patients that we go visit in the community are Meals on Wheels participants. They were kind of roped into letting first year med students into their homes by participation in a needed program for their daily sustenance. Hence, we are both unwitting participants.

That being said, I love our little old couple that me and my partner go and visit. They are so awesome and are fun to talk to. Other students have had great difficulty with their "patients" but I have had no such problem. The assignments are easy and it doesn't take too much time away from us. But, some of my fellow students think it's a huge waste of time. But, I think those are the same students who have to microwave their Pop Tarts in the morning. It's time to loosen up the schedule and enjoy the educational ride.

Chanson du Jour

2010-06-10T23:28:00.003-05:00

I'm gonna try and rattle off a few of these songs of the day for a while. I have an ever-growing list of bands that is somewhere in the 150 bands range, so I better get crack-a-lackin'. Well, here is today's meager effort. I'm assuming the name of the song is a take on the hilarious Stanley Kubrick film, but I have not talked to the band about it, so I'm not sure.

Harold T. Wilkins or How To Wait For A Very Long Time by Fanfarlo

Chanson du Jour

2010-06-09T23:26:00.002-05:00

Discovered this guy yesterday when I should have been studying. I really like him. This song isn't too representative of his body of work, but it is great. Now back to studying about gram-negative bacterial infections.

Take Me Home by Sad Brad Smith

Chanson du Jour

2010-06-08T23:52:00.003-05:00

Listen. I'm no dummy. Let me rephrase. I am not an idiot. Nah, that's not right either. I guess what I am trying to say is I am self aware enough to know why all of my many reader comes to this blog once a year. To hear some weird crap. Today, I will oblige. Not only is today's song weird, it is also a little spooky. But, I really like it. I don't like too much of their other stuff, but I really like this.

You Are The Blood by Castanets

Chanson du Jour

2010-06-03T11:19:00.002-05:00

Sorry that it has been a long time between songs. See I have this little problem. I cannot login to my blogs from my school laptop. I don't know why it won't let me do it. It just won't. So, I now have to go up to our upstairs computer to make posts, and I am just way too lazy to make that trip very often. But, I am here now, making sure a baby clad only in a diaper does not destroy anything and allows her mother to get a little work done. I love having "days off" at school.

Here is today's song(s).

Shake Shake Shake by White Denim

I Start To Run by White Denim

Chanson du Jour

2010-05-25T20:05:00.001-05:00

I don't think Anonymous will make it to the end of this one.

Planes Like Vultures by Le Loup

SDKJ Chronicles

2010-05-24T12:24:00.002-05:00

I get asked a lot of questions about school and the goings on there. That gives me lots of opportunities to talk about what students do as they train to be doctors. Even if I don't get asked questions, I am usually more than happy to tell my stories anyway. Why? Because if I kept them all in, I would explode.

What kind of stories are these? Stories about my classmates, stories about my curriculum, anatomy lab fun, shadowing doctor fun, etc. So, we are starting a new segment on the blog called Student Doctor Kevin Jensen (SDKJ) Chronicles. These stories will be engrossing or grossing to those not in the medical field, and boring and insignificant to those in the medical field, but it should be fun anyways. Since the first year is almost over, we are going to have to do some retroactive posts, but I don't think y'all will mind too much. And if you do, tough. I don't really care. How's that for future doctor compassion!

First up, I will talk generally about the anatomy lab experience. Many of you have never been in an anatomy lab. Let's just say it's an experience. Our lab is one really long, skinny room with "tanks" (metal coffin looking bins with the bodies in them) on both sides and an aisle down the middle. Each tank has an iMac on the wall next to it as a reference and guide for the dissection and identification of body parts. There are about 40 tanks in the room, 20 in a row on each side.

Here is a picture of a really rinky dink lab (not ours) but it gives you an idea of what the tanks look like and what the bodies look like under the shrouds inside the tanks.

On each tank is a small notecard with a brief description of the person(of course, leaving out the name) that includes age of death, cause of death, gender. There were 5 of us assigned to each tank which contained one body.

For about 2/3 of the first year, we were in the lab at least once a week dissecting some part of the body. It was very systematic, because once you cut a part of the body, it will never be intact again, so we kind of had to work from the outside in and work on one region at a time. Then, we would move on to the next section. We will get into specifics later, for those of you interested, but I just wanted to give a flavor.

FAQ Answered...
1) No, I never saw anyone vomit
2) Yes, we got grossed out by some stuff we found - those stories will come later
3) Some people wore masks because of the horrible smell, but I did not
4) Yes, you smell like the lab for most of the semester
5) Yes, it is a mess inside the body
6) Yes, dissecting the body and learning more about it made me want to be healthier
7) Yes, I really truly enjoyed being in there
8) Yes, I do miss it now that we are done

If you have any questions, please put them in the comments and I will answer them. More to come on SDKJ Chronicles.

Chanson du Jour

2010-05-24T12:18:00.002-05:00

Well, I think a three month break (exactly, btw - not planned, but awesome nonetheless) is quite enough. I know, I know. You were getting the "ridiculous band shakes", but don't worry...those will go away. NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We'll pick up right where we left off. If you are new here, yous gots lots of catchin ups to do. This is a Seattle band.

Last Dance by Math and Physics Club

Oh, what the hay. In honor of my two favorite things (not people mind you), 1) the $1 Mickey D's double cheeseburger and 2) the $.99 Wendy's double stack, let's make this bad boy a double, just as a "welcome home son" to me. This band is not from Seattle, but they are from Finland. So, that's good.

Higher Ground by Cats on Fire

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-24T22:42:00.003-06:00

A little break from learning about the adrenal gland. Fascinating stuff. Today I bring you a fairly good song with a pretty awesome video.

The Weakest Shade of Blue by Pernice Brothers

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-23T23:02:00.002-06:00

Every once in a while supergroups form and treat the world to fantasticness. The Eagles are not such a band. Today's group is. Let's do a quick rundown of the accomplished members of today's band:

Jim James from My Morning Jacket
Conor Oberst from Bright Eyes
Mike Mogis from Bright Eyes
M. Ward from M. Ward and She & Him

Put them together and you get Monsters of Folk.

Enjoy The Right Place by Monsters of Folk

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-22T23:27:00.002-06:00

3 weeks til spring break. Thing we're excited? We get to clean the house uninterrupted. Now, that's a party. In the meantime, I better find out what happens to T3 and T4 when there's a hot nodule on the thyroid gland and how that differs from when there is a cold nodule. Got a thyroid quiz tomorrow at 8:15. Peace out.

X-Pat by Octoberman

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-17T09:57:00.002-06:00

Can't believe it's Wednesday already. It has been a good week so far. I owned my two tests on Monday, the presentation got moved to next Wednesday and we are just having so much fun learning about the endocrine system now.

Today's song is Bob Dylan meets wife beaters.

Roll On Arte by The Felice Brothers

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-11T23:08:00.002-06:00

Well we didn't get our 1-2 inches of snow today as predicted. We got 6 inches instead. It snowed all stinkin' day. School was canceled today and tomorrow. My test tomorrow got pushed back to Monday evening, so now that makes 2 tests on Monday and Student Grand Rounds on Wednesday. But, I get to stay home with the wife and kid and ...puppy.

Enjoy this tune from Nora Ephron's You've Got Mail. The Puppy Song by Harry Nilsson.

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-10T22:06:00.003-06:00

This is the last song from Julie & Julia during Nora Ephron week. Little AK loves this song and especially loves it when her mama sings it to her. Pretty cute.

Meanwhile we are awaiting some snow (maybe 2 inches) here in Dallas overnight. Maybe school will be canceled tomorrow. That would be excellent. Give me extra time to study for my test on Friday, my test on Monday, and prepare for Student Grand Rounds (a big presentation that I have) on Wednesday. Then again, I would miss out on the exciting lab that is prepared for tomorrow where there are three stations where we learn a clinical skill for an hour a piece. Tomorrow is phlebotomy, X-ray reading, and listening to different heart and breathing sounds. I know Anonymous will be volunteering for the phlebotomy lab. He loves that stuff.

A Bushel And A Peck by Doris Day

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-09T22:29:00.002-06:00

Let's continue with Nora Ephron week. This song too is from Julie & Julia.

Psycho Killer by Talking Heads

PS - The chick plays the bass like I play Guitar Hero...and that is not a compliment. How rigid. How amateur looking. How funny.

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-08T07:52:00.002-06:00

We passed up these artists, The Skygreen Leopards, Malcolm Middleton, Megatawn, Imogen Heap, and Arctic Monkeys to bring you today's song, straight from the soundtrack of Julie & Julia.

Stop The Train by Henry Wolfe

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-04T22:37:00.002-06:00

We are going to try out a new band for today's competition. Neither of the videos are official videos, but the songs are good. I don't like everything these guys do, but I like a lot of it. Enjoy The Magnetic Fields.

I Don't Want To Get Over You

All My Little Words

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-03T23:08:00.002-06:00

I have been listening to this group/guy nonstop for the last few days now. I am really enjoying his stuff, despite the fact that he performed at a few Obama rallies during the campaign. We have previously played this video of his on the blog, but here are the videos for today's competition. Enjoy today's artist, Bright Eyes.

Easy/Lucky/Free

First Day Of My Life

Road To Joy (pardon the bleeped words, don't worry about watching the interview afterwards if you don't want to, and enjoy the trumpet man smashing his trumpet)

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-02T22:39:00.003-06:00

The rest of this week we are going to have head to head competitions. The fact that these songs are greatness is not up for debate. We are only curious as to which is the greatnesser. Enjoy.

First up, a Weird Al duel (clearly inspired by yesterday's CNR)

White and Nerdy

If you want to hear the song spoofed, click here to listen to Ridin' Dirty by Chamillionaire (expect rapper lyrics - although edited - and video vixens if you watch this)

Or, Trapped In The Drive-Thru

If you want to hear the song spoofed, Trapped In The Closet Parts 1-12 by R.Kelly, you are going to have to find them on your own because the content is not that which is condoned on this blog. But, suffice it to say, Weird Al nails it again.

A True Gift

2010-02-01T21:55:00.002-06:00

We can always count on the hadzic clan for some great songs and videos. This is no exception. Here is the antidote to Mount Eerie. If you are offended easily, find a new blog to read (although I keep it pretty clean here), but this has some off the wall funny lines that may rattle our feebler readers. Beware.

CNR by Weird Al

Chanson du Jour

2010-02-01T21:50:00.001-06:00

Another week. This week we start the renal system. Yippee. I will tell you the entire pathway of your pee shortly. Stay tuned.

Two by The Antlers

Chanson du Jour

2010-01-29T08:56:00.003-06:00

I have about one hour left until the start of my last GI test. I am as ready as I care to be and am looking for something to do. My wife is on a work conference call and is unavailable to talk to. So, I will waste everyone's time with another song today. Enjoy.

No Flashlight by Mount Eerie

Chanson du Jour

2010-01-28T09:50:00.002-06:00

For the religious revivalist in you...

This video made the blog for one reason and one reason alone. Can you guess it? (Hint: Def Leppard ain't got nothing on these guys)
Dancing On Our Graves by The Cave Singers

Chanson du Jour

2010-01-27T20:13:00.002-06:00

A little break from studying GI. I have had enough biochemistry today to last me a lifetime. But, after studying all day, I know not to eat too much sugar. What a revelation!

It took me a while to decide on today's song. I passed up songs by such noted artists like Emiliana Torrini, Basia Bulat, El Guincho, Be Your Own Pet (whose song The Kelly Affair has a pretty good video - I just don't like the song/style), Taken By Trees, and It Hugs Back. So, I hope you appreciate the few minutes it took to weed those out. Today's video mesmerized me and terrified me all at the same time. But, the song is pretty good and the video is pretty stinking awesome.

I Say Fever by Ramona Falls

Chanson du Jour

2010-01-22T11:05:00.002-06:00

Boy have I been bad lately. For that, I apologize. I will try and do better. Maybe when I am not fighting tests and carpet beetles.

Shampoo by Elvis Perkins In Dearland

Chanson du Jour

2010-01-13T12:46:00.002-06:00

I have a lot of Itunes money that needs to be used. I think I will use some on this recent discovery. I really like what I have heard of these guys.

We's Been Waiting by As Tall As Lions

Chanson du Jour

2010-01-12T22:55:00.002-06:00

Another guaranteed flogging for Anonymous. I have to be in the right mood, but sometimes I really like this kind of stuff.

Why Must It Always Be This Way by Choir Of Young Believers

Chanson du Jour

2010-01-07T10:33:00.001-06:00

Drove to school on ice today. Nice. The first lecture was supposed to be 2 hours but he did it in 1. Even nicer. This song? Nicest? Maybe. At the very least, it is unique...

Cuts & Lies by Acoustic Ladyland

Chanson du Jour

2010-01-06T13:54:00.002-06:00

Today I am playing hooky taking care of a sick baby and tired wife. Who needs the anatomy lecture anyways?

Cherry Tulips by Headlights

Those pajamas don't strike me as very comfortable.

Chanson du Jour

2010-01-04T12:31:00.002-06:00

The dude that sits behind me in class suggested I post this song today. This is for a certain Elder Jensen. If this song doesn't cheer you up, I don't know what will.

Willoughby Wallaby by Raffi

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-18T22:00:00.002-06:00

The semester is over. Test went well today. Got a nice solid B in cardio. That will be something great to tell future patients..."Well, I know the cardiovascular system and the lungs about...ummm...85%. Now, let's have a looksie".

Today we have a good song with a great video. Well, at least that is how I would rate it. I especially like the percussion man in his pj's.

Maasai Mara by The Ruby Suns

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-17T22:14:00.002-06:00

Well, I took my second to last test today. 62 questions in 14 minutes to solidify my A in the class. Not too shabby. Let's just hope tomorrow's test is just as easy (It most certainly will not be). But, regardless, in 11 short hours, I will be done for the semester.

Enjoy The Ruminant Band by Fruit Bats

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-16T15:27:00.001-06:00

Why couldn't these guys have been on the ferry I took across the Puget Sound? Maybe they have done impromptu performances at Fat Smitty's as well...

About To Walk by Throw Me The Statue

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-15T23:45:00.005-06:00

I have only one thing to say about today's song: There are black people in Sweden (is that racist?)?

Enjoy Appelknyckarjazz by Movits!

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-14T16:50:00.002-06:00

I have been listening to Regina Spektor's latest album almost nonstop for a few days now (at the great expense of Christmas music). I love it. Here is one of the songs.

The Calculation by Regina Spektor

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-10T23:08:00.001-06:00

Just got dominated by my cardio test yesterday. Need a nice, happy, chill song to cheer me up. Maybe this one will work. At least the video made me laugh...

The Waves by Princeton

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-08T07:28:00.007-06:00

I have never really been a fan of today's band. Then, I heard this "ready for the radio" song and really liked it. Maybe I need to give them another listen? The die hard fans of this band, a few of which follow this piece of garbage blog, may think this is their worst song, but I like it.

Plus, the video features the Snuggle bear's evil twin wreaking havoc on a city, which is pretty awesome. Turn this one up as loud as you can to get the full experience. It is a good rockin' out song.

Uprising by Muse

I like this one too. It's kind of Travis-y. Invincible.

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-04T12:55:00.003-06:00

Well, it has finally happened. I have finally found an Eagles song that I find worthy to select as a song of the day. Imagine that. An Eagles song. Oh yeah...Did I mention that the band is not the lame harmonizing group of weirdos, but just an abbreviation for Department of Eagles, the band's name?

Enjoy No One Does It Like You by Department of Eagles

WARNING: Violence abounds in this video

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-03T21:07:00.002-06:00

Today we are having a new contest. I will play 3 songs by Rachael Yamagata with different styles. Tell us which one you like the best...

Fast, Poppy Rachael Yamagata
Worn Me Down

Slowly Crescendoing Rachael Yamagata
Elephants

Or Pared Down Piano Playing Rachael Yamagata
The Reason Why

Clearly, the poppy one is my least favorite and Elephants is by far my favorite (probably my favorite song out of all of her songs), but what do I know. Oh wait, I have impeccable taste. So, I guess I just gave the answer. Oops.

Lazy Or Concussion?

2009-12-03T20:46:00.002-06:00

I don't care who you are, this is funny. Just further proof that football players suffer serious brain damage while playing their beloved sport.

Chanson du Jour

2009-12-02T11:11:00.002-06:00

We are going to have a competition today. It will be interesting to see which song will win.....Most Sleep Inducing Song (this should really please Anonymous).

Up first is this ditty. Curs In The Weeds by Horse Feathers

What about this one? It Will Follow The Rain by The Tallest Man On Earth (misleading name - don't get too excited)

Or this one? Dream by Priscilla Ahn

And the answer to your question is YES, I do like all three songs. Now I must go back to learning about ventricular preload and an exciting lineup of afternoon classes that will cover heart embryology, cardiac muscle mechanics part 3, and microcirculation. Think I'll be awake for those 3 hours? I think you're right.

Chanson du Week

2009-11-28T10:24:00.000-06:00

I agree, hadzic clan.

Bohemian Rhapsody by The Muppets

Chanson du Jour

2009-11-18T23:13:00.001-06:00

It's finally getting cooler here. Like 60s. Lame. Here is today's ditty.

In The Summertime by Rural Alberta Advantage

Chanson du Jour

2009-11-17T22:39:00.002-06:00

Done with neuro. On to cardiopulmonary. It appears to be much easier. Yessireebob.

In Our Talons by Bowerbirds

Chanson du Jour

2009-11-12T21:43:00.000-06:00

Study break from yet another test next Monday. Does the fun ever start?

The Men Who Live Upstairs by The Most Serene Republic

Chanson du Jour

2009-11-11T23:25:00.001-06:00

Scotland's version of The Jonas Brothers?

You and Me by The View

Chanson du Jour

2009-11-10T22:40:00.001-06:00

The hadzic clan made this recommendation a few days ago and I never put it up. It is awesome.

Side note: I was asked to be in this video, but I had a Dig Dug tournament that I had already committed to. Unfortunate.

Thunder by Nuttin But Stringz

Chanson du Jour

2009-11-09T22:44:00.002-06:00

In today's song of the day we address a hotly contested political issue: the legalization of marijuana. I, of course, am for it and when I go to Congress to make my case, I am just going to show them this band. Then, rest my case. More pot = More Bands Like This. Simple math.

Home by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros

Chanson du Jour

2009-11-06T22:26:00.002-06:00

This song and this album tell an entire story. This guy is super talented.

Audrey Macy by PT Walkley

Chanson du Jour

2009-11-04T21:31:00.000-06:00

The greatest group in the world just dropped their latest album this week. It is good. Here is their single.

(If You're Wondering If I Want You To) I Want You To by The Weezers

Chanson du Jour

2009-11-02T15:33:00.002-06:00

I don't like rap...but I like

Hip Hop Violin by Paul Dateh (with inka one on the turntable)

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-30T21:31:00.000-05:00

I have been listening to these guys a bunch lately. I really like them.

How You Like Me Now by The Heavy

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-26T22:21:00.003-05:00

Another great song for you, but aren't they all great? I mean, really. My taste has really proven to be impeccable here. Just in case you didn't notice.

If I Didn't Know by Jenny Owen Youngs

And for those of you who like rap songs (or at least indie covers of rap songs) check out her version of Nelly's Hot In Herre (BEWARE: it is mostly edited, but please expect rapper language if you watch this video).

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-22T23:06:00.002-05:00

Just to beat Anonymous. As for the hadzic clan and anyone else, I have no idea. The musical taste of the hadzic clan still seems enigmatic to me (kinda like the politics of the hadzic clan), but I keep trying.

Soon We'll Be Found by Sia

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-20T22:09:00.001-05:00

For all the anglophiles out there...

Nomads by High Llamas

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-19T21:28:00.001-05:00

A week's worth of songs selected by the hadzic clan is enough to get anyone rejuvenated. Thanks again for filling in. Let's see if I can muster some sort of consistency moving forward.

Who knew that actor Ryan Gosling had a band? I did. And they're good. Neener Neener.

Enjoy Name In Stone by Dead Man's Bones

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-17T18:57:00.000-05:00

Another electronica selection from hadzic clan.

Kelly Watch The Stars by Air

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-14T16:52:00.002-05:00

Another hadzic clan song today.

Around The World by Daft Punk

Coming Soon

2009-10-13T12:55:00.003-05:00

I was watching the video from yesterday again, and I got excited for Wes Anderson's new movie Fantastic Mr. Fox. I can't wait for this...

Which reminds me, I am also excited for the new Coen Brother's movie, A Serious Man.

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-13T12:48:00.000-05:00

Another selection by the hadzic clan. Let's give this one a whirl.

What Else Is There? by Royksopp

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-12T08:00:00.002-05:00

If The Donald were a follower of the blog (which I somehow doubt) he would fire me. I have been less effective. The Hadzic Clan has offered to pick up the slack and help a brutha out, so we will mix in her selections with mine so we can hopefully get a song up here every day. We just started a new class, so maybe I will not be as ineffective as I have been. Wish me luck.

Here is the first selection from the hadzic clan. Marble House by The Knife

Chanson du Jour

2009-10-01T22:45:00.002-05:00

Been a while. I don't care to tell you why. Here is today's song.

Hi by Psapp

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-22T12:18:00.002-05:00

This one is a blatant attempt to appease Anonymous. I know for a fact that he/she does not like The Killers. We will give him one more shot to hop on that bandwagon. They covered a song by a band that I know Anonymous likes (at least some of their songs). So, here is The Killers doing a version of Dire Straits' Romeo And Juliet.

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-21T19:57:00.001-05:00

The Absentee by Half Cousin

My Racist Dog

2009-09-19T15:37:00.002-05:00

So, I needed a textbook for one of my classes (Cellular Physiology if you were wondering) and I decided to take the baby and the dog for a drive into downtown Dallas to go pick it up today (mom is at a work function). While down there (near UT Southwestern), we ran in to many bruthas and sistas on Harry Hines and other adjoining streets. Now, I love bruthas and sistas, but Molly felt the need to bark at all of them she saw. Why would she bark at them? I have no idea. She only barks at the yappy dog across the alley and the UPS man. Why now? Why here? AK and I were very confused at the erratic behavior of our dog. Yes, our BLACK dog. Go figure.

I guess the chart at the following link needs to be updated to include barking dogs.

Racist Chart

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-18T22:11:00.001-05:00

Two Way Monologue by Sondre Lerche

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-17T22:53:00.002-05:00

There is joy in my heart today. Why? Because I did a good deed. And not just any good deed. A good deed for an underappreciated, underpaid, public servant. Cami and I were taking a late night jaunt up to Green Acres tonight to pick up the babe, when we saw a public servant sitting along the side of the road. This particular road, as with many of the roads up thar in them there boonies, has no street lights. So, it was dark, late, there were no other cars on the road, and there was no one for this public servant to talk to. So, I took it upon myself to spread some happiness to him and conversate for a while.

Well, sure enough he followed me, showed me his lights, and even came up to my car. I could tell that this was going to develop into a quick friendship. He was so eager to be my friend and he was so excited that someone was willing to talk to him. It really made me feel like all the effort I was going through was truly worth it. He got my name and address, license plate number, driver's license number, and my insurance information. I got his number and the number where I can reach an "honorable" man. What a nice guy he was.

But, he is turning out to be a kinda high maintenance friend. Right off the bat he asked me for money. I was not down with that. So, I don't know if I am going to call him. But, I dedicate today's song to my new sorta friend. But, whether this turns into a lasting, meaningful relationship or not, I can still feel good that I did a public service for a public servant. And that will help me sleep tonight (that and I have been up for over 19 hours). Good night, officer. Good night, y'all.

Dear Constable by Harrisons

How Much Is A Congressman's Pee Worth?

2009-09-16T12:36:00.004-05:00

This is classic. We have all heard about the angry people, mainly geriatrics, at these town hall meetings. Well, the politicians are getting feisty. I enjoy watching this go down. While I disagree with liberals, I also think the hyperbole that is used on the right is a little silly as well. So, watching this is like watching the bearded lady argue with the midget that can lift 500 pounds. It isn't going to affect my life in any way, but it is just flat out entertaining to watch.

Here is an exchange between everyone's favorite bozo Barney Fthrfthrank. Now, let's get one thing straight. I disagree with everything this man stands for. But, he is funny and unabashedly so. I like this exchange. This lady seemed to be extreme, so he gave her an extreme answer.

Here is an exchange between Rep. Stark and a constituent. I won't say whether Stark is a Republican or a Democrat *cough*Democrat*cough*, but I thought the Constitution said that the Congress works for us, not against us. What have we come to?

But, the conversation has taken even an awesomer turn. Liberals are homing in on the word "racist" and are using it against anyone who disagrees with Obama. So, now, thanks to libs and their control over the news, conservatives hate the following groups (in no particular order):

1) Muslims
2) Gays
3) Minorities
4) Especially Immigrants
5) Non-Christians
6) Atheists
7) Liberals
8) Old people
9) Poor people
10) Anyone whose net worth is under $2.5 million
11) Anyone who does not work a white collar job
12) People in the inner city
13) Foreigners
14) Socialists
15) Anyone who does not completely agree with them
16) Women

I think that is a fairly good list. But, what the news won't tell you are the reasons that conservatives don't like these groups. I will tell you. That is why you read this blog. We want to ostracize all those groups and narrow the voting field down to 1% of the population (many of whom are registered Democrats - that being the rich white man of course) just to make elections more exciting. Conservatives have no interest in benefiting the above groups with any of their policies because they don't want their vote. They don't care. Just let us kill, torture, discriminate, and hold our hate rallies in peace please. Thank you.

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-16T12:21:00.001-05:00

Not really a pick-me-up song today, but I like it nonetheless. I cannot tell if she loves prescription medicine or hates it. My guess is she hates it.

Dr. Blind by Emily Haines and The Soft Skeleton

A New Year

2009-09-15T12:13:00.004-05:00

September 10, 2009 was a big day here in Dumb Blog Headquarters (DBH). It is true. Last Thursday we celebrated one year of wasting people's time. 527 posts, most of them songs that only I like. 6,780 visits, most of them me listening to said songs. 11,641 page views, mostly me defending those same songs after all the reader lambasted them. As you can see, it was a big day here in DBH. Now, we will give you a little update as to the goings on here at DBH, the changes, and a detailed description of how we celebrated turning one.

Over the past few months, management of the blog (1 head writer and 1 editor-in-chief) has taken on new responsibilities that have affected the quality of the product. For that we apologize. But, we are turning over a new leaf. We have a new company name, Saiaku Media (yep, I'm gonna make you Google "saiaku" - it will be the first thing that pops up), to help give us focus. We are trying to get adjusted into our new building, DBH, and are becoming accustomed to our new responsibilities. Now, that the dust is settling, we promise to return with more unreadable content, pointless time-wasting exercises (you are in the middle of one if you couldn't tell), unlistenable songs, spot-on political commentary, obvious observations, sports news, ridiculous videos, etc. That is the promise of the Saiaku Team.

Now, on to the good stuff. We had a big one-year celebration last Thursday that looked like a who's who of awesomeness. We were gonna have Kanye perform, but he hates white people, plus we were pretty sure Taylor Swift was gonna be coming (according to her RSVP) and we didn't want that awkwardness. So, that fell through. We then wanted to honor Michael Moore's new anti-capitalism movie by recanting the important moments of his filmography. After watching all 5 of his documentaries, we could not find one thing that made sense, had any part of truth, or that was worth showing to a human. So, that fell through. Then, we thought it would be fun to get The Eagles to perform at the event, but we couldn't track down their room number in the nursing home. So, that fell through.

You get the point. So, we just celebrated alone with a little cake action. Plus, if we would have had an elaborate party, Nancy Pelosi would have reprimanded us for spending our own money (she only likes spending other people's money) on an event when there are Americans that can't have such events, and we just don't want a genius like her to think poorly of us.

But from the Saiaku Media Team here at DBH we welcome you to one more year of blogging. Hope you enjoy. Here's to 365 more days.

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-15T11:54:00.001-05:00

Well, test on Friday and big test on Monday means a few days off. My apologies. I am back with a new creation from the genius, Stuart Murdoch, that brought us Belle & Sebastian.

Come Monday Night by God Help The Girl

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-09T07:32:00.002-05:00

We continue the week of songs I don't like with a rather recent band. With all the buzz and comparisons this band received, I thought I was going to have a new favorite on my hands. But, every single one of their songs is just absolutely unlistenable. If you are looking for a new method of causing your ears to bleed (i.e. if the old methods of listening to Keith Olbermann, Bill Maher, Chuck Norris, Obama, Cheney, Skip Balis, Jim Rome, or that annoying guy from PTI just aren't working anymore), please take a listen to this beating.

Please suffer through the rectal exam that is The Racing Rats by The Editors

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-08T16:16:00.002-05:00

I have tried and tried and tried to like today's group, but I have yet to find a song of theirs I like. Let alone an entire album.

Please endure the flogging known as Phantom Limb by The Shins (although I do like this video - it reminds me of a school play written and directed by Wednesday and Pugsley Addams)

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-07T22:12:00.002-05:00

This week we are going to have a little fun. I have noticed something strange about my musical taste (and it is something you may have noticed as well). I have noticed that it does not follow any predictable trend. Sometimes I like songs that one would think I shouldn't like and sometimes I don't like songs that one would think I should like. It is this latter group that we will talk about this week.

All us music lovers have had this happen to us. We learn about a new group/singer/song that is supposedly comparable to a group/singer/song that we really like. We get all excited. We go listen that that group/singer/song and something tragic happens. It stinks. We don't like it at all. It is nothing like the group/singer/song that we like. We have no idea where this comparison came from and we don't appreciate it. But, it seems that every article we read, every critique we read, and every other thing written about this new group/singer/song compares them to a genre of music that we like. But, for some odd reason, we just don't like it. It is unexplainable, but true.

This week, I will play for you some songs from that category for me. Songs that, by all accounts, I should like, but just can't get into. Enjoy.

Based on who they tour with, who their influences are, and who thinks they are an awesome band (The Strokes went on and on about how awesome this band is, and I love The Strokes), I should be a huge fan of the band Kings of Leon. But, I would rather watch Walker, Texas Ranger all day than listen to one of their songs. I can't explain it. It's just a fact.

Please don't enjoy Use Somebody by Kings of Leon.

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-05T13:07:00.003-05:00

I hope you will all forgive me for taking a few days off. Enjoy blog post #523.

Polite Dance Song by The Bird and The Bee

If this isn't the greatest music video ever, I don't know what is.

Chanson du Jour

2009-09-01T21:04:00.002-05:00

Well, the test didn't turn out as bad as I was hoping. I am through with my first class of medical school (despite my best efforts). On to the musculoskeletal system. I met my cadaver on Monday. She is a 90 year old who died of pancreatic cancer. Truly, I can't thank her enough for helping me with my education. Her and I will soon become good friends, as if we already hadn't. Well, anyway. Here is the song.

It's Because Of People Like You by Obi Best

Chanson du Jour

2009-08-31T16:57:00.000-05:00

I Adore You by Melpo Mene

Chanson du Jour

2009-08-29T18:05:00.001-05:00

Verily by Merz