Toxic TuneZ: The Podcast

Hey guys! Just a quick update, cause i dunno how much longer i have in silence lol. It's been a drama filled couple of days here - some people could prob'ly just imagine what's goin' on! But, this isn't the place to talk about it...i might do an entry on the personal blog...but, that's not a "for sure" thing.

The podcast has been put on indefinate hiatus until further notice. I've got a TON of things to worry about right now, and, unfortunately - that doesn't include the podcast. I'm hoping things will calm down here in the next week....one can only hope. I don't like to do this, but when this shit happens...i have to decide what's important offline first, and worry about them first. I wish things were different, but, the fact of the matter is that it's a little worse than i first thought. Kelly (stepmom) isn't here...and, that's how ya know it got bad!

So - i dunno how long i'll be away from the comp - but, i know i have to be up in 7 hours, at 10am...to help out with dispatching for the delivery company tomorrow...and, i dunno how long i'll have to do that for.

I will find a chance to post about how it's coming along, and how things are going...eventually. And, if ya know the personal blog's addy - check in there too if ya wanna go deeper.

Hopefully this is done by next weekend - i'll be hoping! And, i'll be sure to fill ya all in on how things are comin' along! Don't think i've left, cause, i haven't - and NEVER WILL!!!

Feel free to leave me a message - on myspace, or by email - i'll keep ya all in the loop!

After seeing this on download.com - i decided it would be fun to download this, and give it a test drive! I'm almost all over Beta's (Even Alpha's for that matter.) It gives me a chance to see things that most people won't even touch until after it goes live - or, at least out of beta. I've beta'd many things - Most notably Digsby and Windows Vista - among other things. But, enough about the "bragging" - let's take a look at a new email client, Zimbra Desktop!

When I found it - i was surprised to learn it's actually from Yahoo. Weird. Why? It's weird to think of them moving into the "Desktop Email Clients" that have cluttered us (For lack of a better word) Some work better than others - while some just suck (Incredimail, i'm talking about you!) I've tried 'em ALL! Windows Mail that ships with Vista, which i'm still using right now. Windows Live Mail - the desktop version...which includes the stable and beta...to the Open source clients, like Thunderbird. Thunderbird works best in my opinion, but, after awhile - it seems like my email setup hates me! Either that, or Microsoft has found a new way to keep people using their products....

Whoa! Talk about conspiracy nut! I will give Microsoft credit - they're trying to break away from the horrid days of Outlook Express - but, that will still linger - especially with all the people still using XP who don't want to make a switch to Live Mail. OE's bigger brother is great on the other hand - it's just the small brother i have complaints about.

Anyways - more on to Zimbra now!

I came across a site that had broke the news that Yahoo! had spent $350 Million for Zimbra. So, at least they're trying. The setup of Zimbra is also very easy - and very clean. Kinda...Java-y (I know that's not a word! Sue me! HA HA!) For an open source email client right now - it's going really well! I think the only drawback right now is setting up Hotmail to use Zimbra. It's a little complicated - as in....prob'ly not happening. This will only work with Microsoft Live Hotmail Plus accounts. Some free accounts that still support Outlook Express may also be used. And, even to that extent - you have to fiddle around in your Live Mail account (mail.live.com) - and set it up to allow client access. Not hard for some - difficult for many! I tried to set it up...couldn't...went and looked for help...came across that Live is MAPI...and, is currently not supported. If i'm mistaken, let me know! For now though - i can live without it!

On the plus side - it does allow many other webmail accounts to be used. GMail, Yahoo!, Zimbra, AOL, IMAP accounts - and of course, POP access from your ISP! Many people won't even want to set up Gmail accounts - as Google finally made the Themes available to all of it's users (Well, if it's not there Yet, it will be soon!)

Once you're done with the setup process, and you get to your email - it actually looks like a full fledged web based email program. Prob'ly because it is built on AJAX (AKA: Web 2.0) - and, again, is very open source.

Moving around in the program is quite easy. It has to be. But, the one thing i find it lacks is the ability to see what's happening in all the accounts. At least, i can't figure it out. Maybe if i spent more than a few hours looking around, i might find it :)

All the features are there though! It's really amazing! A contact list is in there, a calendar is in there...search features are implemented if ya go to the "Advanced" button...and, there's a new thing called "Zimlets" - which are basically applets or Widgets. You can import maps into email - as well as pictures from Flickr, and you can even go local!

This is really a must for ya to check out if you're looking for an email client as an alternative to Mozilla and Windows. I know it's still in beta - but, become active in the community! It's open source - and the best things are Open! I will be definately leaving it on here for awhile to learn my way around it a little bit - and, to take a break from Windows Mail. We'll see if it can handle what i can throw at it - that's the ultimate test right there!

If you're interested in checkin' it out, and downloading it - Go HERE! Check out the screenshots, and see if it fits in your life. Only you know what's best for ya - i only report on it :)

Here I am again....on a Friday night. The day before the new episode goes out - and, yet again, i'm still mic'less. Some stupid bills came up that i had to pay for, and again, i won't be able to get a mic until...well...whenever it is i get paid next.

I really do wish that people would start to use the "Donate Now" paypal button - but, that's fine. I'm not gonna beg and plead with ya guys to do that, because, i don't do this to get paid! But - it would come in handy for the small things, ya know?

Anyways - there WILL be a new show this weekend. Don't fret! But, unless i get that headset from my friend (Which i doubt) - it'll be mic'less again. Sorry guys! I don't like to do the show without a mic - but, the show must go on, right?

And - i have come to a conclussion about the type of show it'll be - there will be 2 episodes this week! Kind of a "Make up" because i haven't done a show in about 2 weeks. Here's the 411 on the 2 new shows!

Episode 109: Will be a "Full album" debut - a first for the podcast in it's 2 year run! I am very pleased to announce that Crystal Sunshine's new album, "Nephilim Blood" will be played in it's entirety! So, don't forget to check her out, and to buy the CD if ya can't get enough of it! I know I can't! I'll do a full write up about where ya can get the CD, and how to purchase it tomorrow when the show goes live!

Episode 110: Will feature the new music added in the last month! Bands include FemBots, Hayden. Deborah Cox, Basia Bulat, Celldweller, East Village Opera Company - among many others! Also, Some of Nickelback's new CD, "Dark Horse" will be featured! Not just the songs covered on the radio as single's! No, we'll delve much deeper - and leave a taste of Something in your mouth! (Gotta love wordplay, eh? :D)

Both playlists are being edited in iTunes tonight! Even though i don't have to do much for Crystal's CD - episode 110 will be hard hitting! So, expect both episodes tomorrow night - basically one after the other! You're gonna love it!

Screw everyone else who's doing the thanksgiving thing on their blog's, or their sites - NOT ME! that is just so...usual lol. So, tonight for my Video - i present Internet Porn & You! Enjoy!

Thought i'd take the time this morning...seeing as how i'm still freakin' up (How i hate being sick...again...let me count the ways! That could take all day, so, i'll spare ya!)

Anyways - to my neighbours to the South - have a wonderful turkey day today, and an awesome long weekend! May ya enjoy the wonderful game of football tomorrow...which kicks off the start of the NFL Network's Thursday coverage if i'm not mistaken.

I however, won't be taking a break this weekend...even if i'm still sick! I'm getting the new headset this afternoon, and am looking forward to using it! Also, there's new music this week - i'll do a post about that later on though!

Nearly half of all AIDS cases in the U.S. involve people 13 to 24 years of age, placing many of BlogCatalog members or their children in the highest risk age groups. More than 250,000 are estimated to be HIV positive and not know it. And more than 1 million are estimated to have AIDS.

Of course, AIDS is not limited to the U.S. There are an estimated 33 million people with AIDS worldwide. It affects every country, city, and town in the world. And, the most frightening thing about it is that is going largely unchecked. In fact, that is one of the reason that worldaidscampaign.org is continuing its "leadership" theme, which it developed after learning that many leaders who promised to support AIDS were not keeping their promises.

“HIV/AIDS has now become a pandemic that has literally put the world at risk, affecting diverse populations in different ways”. –Dr. Nora Volkow, NIDA Director

On December 1st, individuals and organizations will recognize World AIDS Day. This year’s theme is leadership – from all sectors, including government, but also leaders among individuals and families, communities, non-profits and other organizations. The question is not should you participate, but how can you? Both NIDA and AIDS.gov recognize the leadership of Bloggers Unite and invite bloggers to join them in their mission to prevent and stop the spread of HIV/AIDS.

As always, what you choose to write about is up to you. However, you might consider checking the NIDA and AIDS.gov research and prevention resources on the Bloggers Unite resource page. Or, for a more global view, check out http://www.worldaidscampaign.org

Unlike most campaigns where we hope awareness led to action, this is one campaign where awareness is action! If even just 10 percent of our members get involved, we can reach an estimated 4 million blog readers. And if half of our members participate, we can reach 20 million. And if all bloggers participate, we can reach the entire world. But more importantly than all that. If your post just touches even one person and convinces them to get tested or helps someone learn about AIDS prevention, won't that will be worth it? Your words, voices, videos, and actions can all help people become more aware about AIDS and how to prevent it. And by doing that, you might not only save someone, but save someone close to you.

I bet you guys are all wondering where i've been for the past...week and some. I'm here to make the announcement public now, as you guys need to know!

First off, no, i'm not on some kind of hiatus. Not like i'm "taking off" anytime soon. You guys are stuck with me! HA HA! I'm actually on round 2 of being sick, and taking benylin and neo-citran (plus all the coffee i can handle!)

Secondly, i'm waiting to get a headset this week - which will come on Wednesday or Thursday night sometime. I'm starting to get bored of not being on the mic! Hell, that's why i got into "Radio" to begin with - so I could annoy people with my voice! Even though, i don't think it has the effect i was hoping for...cause, i've been told i have a "Hot Voice" - I don't think that's the case, but, whatever works, right? lol.

Now that we have that out of the way - on to some news for Monday! Yesterday, i was browsing Google, cause that's what i do when i'm bored...plus, i'm contemplating opening up a store! I came across a distribution in Canada for Independent labels - and their artists, called Distribution Select. I looked around the site a little bit, and came to find out that they're actually based in Montreal! How sweet is that?!? Anyways, they also have a mailing list that radio stations could get on - so, i applied. I'm waiting to hear back, but, i hope to hear good things!

I know i'm not a radio station - but, i'm a podcast who serves Canadian music, and independent music from around the globe. I've got a fan base of about 2,000 subscribers - and listeners (Don't let that "chicklet" fool ya!) I consider myself in radio - at least to a point! I just want the chance to work with more than 1 big label - and, a few minors. They serve about 170+ labels...that would come in handy!

Not only that - but, they also serve French based music as well! So, i'm hoping i get the chance to work with them as well, as i need more flavour on this podcast! About 99% of my stuff is english language - minus Rammstien. That's about the only non-english i have on the podcast! The reason i want more french stuff is because Canada has a deep heritage in French as well. We have 2 official languages up here, and i wanna reflect that!

Lastly....there will be an episode this week before i do get the mic - so, don't worry! I'm still contemplating what i'll include in it though. I'm pretty sure it'll be an Album exclusive - but, don't quote me on that! When i decide tonight, i'll do a post for tomorrow letting ya all know what it'll be!

Sandro DeAngelis kicked five field goals as the Calgary Stampeders won the Grey Cup with a back-and-forth 22-14 victory over the Montreal Alouettes before a packed Olympic Stadium on Sunday night.

Brett Ralph had the only touchdown for the Stampeders, who won the sixth Grey Cup in their history and the first since they beat Winnipeg in the same stadium in 2001.
Tailback Avon Cobourne scored Montreal's only touchdown and Damon Duval booted two field goals and a single as the Alouettes lost for the fifth time in six Grey Cup appearances since 2000. They failed in a bid to become the first team to win a Grey Cup on home turf since the B.C. Lions in 1994.

The Alouettes fate was sealed when quarterback Anthony Calvillo threw his second interception of the second half into the end zone midway through the fourth quarter, and Henry Burris responded by putting the Stampeders in position for a 50-yard placement by DeAngelis and an eight-point lead with 4:12 left to play. It was the longest field goal of the season for the Calgary kicker.

Calgary is now 6-6 in Grey Cup games while Montreal fell to 5-11. And it was the Stamps' first win in three tries against the Alouettes, after losses in 1948 and 1970. The crowd of 66,308 in the domed stadium were deafening as they rooted for the hometown Alouettes. It was the second largest crowd in Grey Cup history after the 68,318 that attended Montreal's win in the 1977 game, also at Olympic Stadium.

The Alouettes used some big plays and an interception to take a 13-10 halftime lead. Jamel Richardson, who had five receptions for 101 yards in the first half alone, made a catch over the middle, broke two tackles and romped 55 yards to set up Duval's 14-yard field goal 4:34 into the game. Burris led a 10-play drive to the Montreal 36 and DeAngelis tied the score with a 43-yard effort 1:12 into the second quarter.

But Burris, who completed his first 11 passes, mostly for short yardage, followed his first incomplete toss with a throw straight to Alouette middle linebacker Reggie Hunt for a turnover at the Montreal 51. Ben Cahoon made two catches as Montreal got to the 16, where Cobourne flew untouched up the middle for the game's first touchdown at 7:18.

A 42-yard punt return by Larry Taylor set up a 19-yard Duval field goal, but Calgary struck right back with an eight-play scoring drive, and Burris scrambled out of the pocket and found Ralph alone in the end zone from 20 yards with 44 seconds left in the half. Burris used his feet to move the ball early in the second half and took the ball to the Montreal five, but Demetris Summers dropped a sure TD pass and DeAngelis was forced to kick a 12-yard field goal to tie the game.

Duval then put his team up by a point with a punt single. Another Burris drive fell short as Nik Lewis missed a catchable ball in the end zone and DeAngelis hit a 21-yard field goal for a 16-14 Calgary lead on the final play of the third quarter.

Calvillo opened the fourth by throwing an interception to Calgary's Dwight Anderson, but despite a wild reception in which a Burris pass went off Ken-Yon Rambo's hand's into the arms of Lewis, they settled for another field goal, this one from 30 yards.

The Alouettes responded by marching down to the Calgary 20 before Shannon James intercepted Calvillo's pass in the end zone with seven minutes left. DeAngelis then put it away with his 50-yarder. Calvillo easily got the 14 career Grey Cup completions he needed to pass Doug Flutie's former record of 108. It was a best-on-best matchup.

The Stampeders led the West Divison at 13-5 while Montreal was tops in the East at 11-7. Both had losing 2007 seasons, with Calgary at 7-10-1 and Montreal 8-10, and both lost in division semifinals, but the two teams roared back this year under new first-year head coaches - John Hufnagel for the Stamps and Marc Trestman for the Als.

Calgary cornerback Brandon Browner, who injured an ankle last in the West Division final against British Columbia, was able to start. Rush end Mike Labinjo played despite suffering from a flu this week.

The Stamps sat out linebacker Matt Grootegoed, defensive back Keon Raymond, offensive lineman Antonio Hall and defensive lineman Pat MacDonald. Montreal scratched linebacker Dwayne Taylor, safety Keith Williams, tackle Dave Mudge and quarterback Brad Banks.

Well, it started at 4pm MT/6pm ET - and, it's gonna be a game to remember! Calgary Stampeeders Vs. the Montreal Alouettes. Who is everyone going for? I know who i'm rooting for, but, i'm not gonna say anything in case i jinx it! And, it's prob'ly not who everyone thinks!

About 3 minutes left in the first quarter - Montreal is up with a Field Goal, 3-0. I'm betting that things won't open up til maybe...the 2nd half in the 3rd quarter. That's about the time the Adrenaline starts pumping!

Theory of a Deadman will be rockin' the half-time show this year! How will they open? I think they'll play the first single from their new CD "Scars & Souveniers" - their first single being So Happy. They'll prob'ly go from there to do some stuff off their Self-titled debut - and, finish it off with Last Song - also from their self-titled! But, so many possibilities there lol.

Along with TOADM - Suzie McNeil and Andree Watters Will Be There! And, i've never heard of both of them before, so, it'll be a joy to see some more talent that i've never seen or heard from! But, thanks to Pepsi (And, Diet Pepsi might i add) - it'll be a unique experience. Last year, it was Lenny Kravitz rockin' out - before that...i can't remember lol. Hell, i can't remember EVERY year that i've been watchin' it. Even when Toronto made the cup!

Anyways guys - i'm gonna go watch it! I'll post some thoughts about the game after! With the help of TSN.ca as well - and, for those of you who aren't lucky enough to be watchin' it (It is being shown in the U.S market - and, a few others - including Australia, the U.K. And a few others - go watch it!) If ya can't watch it, at least keep up to date on this site: TSN.ca

I must be "Breaking rules" again...ya know what, screw it - it's my blog! HAHA! See how i win there? I'm gonna write a little bit about the new Guns N' Roses CD! I mean, how can i not after 14 years of patiently waiting for new stuff?

This album in 1 word - ROCKS! For a band to come back after 14 years (Nearly 15) - and to release such an amazing CD after that long. After all the problems with Axl and the other members, i'm glad to know that's all behind them now! And, this is amongst the first for them as well - they mix all kinds of genres together. Sure, it's the same hard rock we're used to - but, it's not so much "Hair band-ish" anymore! They have infused R&B, Rock, Operatic singing...all into a nice package!

The album does have 1 drawback however in my opinion. And, that's the opening track "Chinese Democracy" - the first single of the album, and the one that draws us all into getting it, yep! I'm sorry - but, when ya have to wait about 50 seconds for it to cut off the sound effects, and get into the music - riffs and all - that's a little much. It's about a minute and some in that Axl decides to pop in and make an appearence.

However - i get where the band is going. The CD tells a "Story" - and, it's all in the buildup, and the "come down." The tracks are in Perfect order for that! They know how to build up the anticipation, and keep ya wanting more!

"Better" - track 3 of the CD is amazing as well! It was actually on my repeat for 3 times in a row! It's got sick electric riffs, sick drumming - and, Axl's voice is amazing! It's Hook is catchy as well. I wish i could review better! lol.

"Street Of Dreams" - track 5 on the CD - do i hear Ozzy Osbourne on there as well? I'm not 100% sure on that, but, if it is - amazing! Bery November Rain-ish. Axl seems to be stretching his voice here - seems to be screaming it...but, then again, what's he not? This will likely be the last song at several high school proms next spring.

"If The World" - track Five - very R&B sounding! The beat kinda reminds me of all those 70's porn "Bow-chicka-bow-wow" ya hear about lol. Rose's vocals are front and centre on this one. "If the world would end today all the dreams we had would all just drift away," he sings. I know we're only on the fifth track, but, so far, themes of longing and regret seem to be tying the album together.

"This I Love" - tack Thirteen - Wow! Very operatic! It's like during the wedding in the November Rain video when his wife dies. Doesn't she fall on the wedding cake-knife. That's so sad. Fantastic solo in two parts, the second of which feels very orchestral.

Overall - this CD is a Must OWN! Go out and get it on Sunday when it's released - you will NOT be disappointed!

Theory of a Deadman will be performing the halftime show at The Grey Cup (Canadian Football League Super Bowl) in Montreal on November 23.

Canadian TV broadcast will be on TSN (English) and RDS (French).
The game will also be shown in the U.S. and internationally on Dish Network, Voom-World Sport Network (HD), America One Television Network, ESPN360.com, Versus, Catch 47 Tampa Bay, Florida, Fox Sports International (Middle East, Europe), ESPN Star Sports (Asia), CFL.ca, and US and Canadian Armed Forces Networks.
In other Theory news: Make sure you tune into FUSE's No. 1 Rock Countdown and No.1 Alternative Countdown to see Theory's "Bad Girlfriend" Video.
For more on Theory of a Deadman, check out www.roadrunnerrecords.com and www.theoryofadeadman.com.

Wow - have i been listening to tons of music lately, or what! I have come to love so many bands and artists - and, not just mainstream either! Hell, i don't have as many mainstream acts as i used to. I've gone and did a complete remodel of my hard drive, and - i actually think i love what i've done!

There's benefits that come to being in radio...Shutup, i know - it's just a podcast - but, when i work with labels and bands, it becomes so much more than just a podcast! Wow...did i just get off topic a little bit?

As i was saying....

The benefits that come to being in radio are this - i get advance copies of some of the mainstream acts out there! I got the advance on Nickelback's Dark Horse CD 2 weeks before it came out. I know, it was prob'ly available for download - but, i barely download anymore...and, what i do, it's just TV shows that i miss when i'm out and about. I do buy music still - maybe not many on CD's anymore, but, iTunes wise. Why iTunes? Cause, it's convenient. It's open 24-7 - so, i don't really have to "pirate" stuff anymore. Sucks living on a credit card though lol. If they were smart, they'd build PayPal support in the Canadian store as well - just like the American store!

I also got my hands on Britney's new CD too...Circus. I gotta say - i've been a fan of her's from the start. She seemed to "Lose it" - somewhat - on her previous adventure, Blackout - but, i knew why. It was obvious to everyone. I'm glad to say that she's back now - and, seems to have "Found it" again! I know what she's goin' through, as, i'm just getting slowly better myself. It takes a LOT of work! Especially when you're in the damn public eye growing up - i couldn't imagine putting myself in her shoes.

Seems like some record companies are getting it though - that they can't keep putting out stupid shit just cause it's the "it" thing of the moment. I blame Disney for all that crap! Not saying Miley's bad or anything - but, damn. And, let's not forget all these bands that go on hiatus' - AC/DC *cough*...Metallica...When they each released their new stuff this year, i thought "Oh boy - this is gonna suck!" - but, noooo. They never lost it! Both releases by AC/DC and Metallica ROCK!

I've been spending a lot more time in the Canadian music scene of things though. And, if you're not Canadian, and wanna start experiencing some other bands that haven't quite "Crossed borders" yet - there's no better time! Mobile is one of them...and, their new CD blew me outta the water lastnight when i got my hands on it! There's TONS of stuff i could get into - but, i can't list them all...it's just too damn good!

Off that topic for a bit....there will be a new show this week! I'm sorry for not being able to do one last week....but, with the drama that's been goin' on here - my god...i swear, i could start filming a better Canadian soap opera lol. Screw Degrassi! oO

I'm still deciding what i wanna do though. I'm in a toss up between playing Crystal Sunshine's New CD...Seven Mile Ride or Patrizia's EP's....so much to think about! I'm even deciding if i wanna do a show playing my artist of the month - because, i have yet to do 1 this year lol. Chances are, i'll come to a conclussion tomorrow - and post about it then letting ya guys know!

Lastly - i've opened up the comments now! That's right - EVERYONE Can Comment! The only thing that i did is add a word verification. I mean, if i'm gonna open up the comments for everyone to use, i have to take that one extra step to prevent stupid spammers! I got sick of it on EFx2...and Modblog - i don't wanna experience it over here like i did in those 2 places! So, if ya don't mind doing a word verification....feel free to comment!

This is straight from the band's MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/fallfromgracemusic)

We need you!!! To participate in the new "Hated Youth" video.
You will be asked to be part of the crowd watching the show.

If you'll be in the King/Pierce County area (Seattle/Tacoma) on November 29th. Then please contact Jessica

Fans and several artist superstars said good bye to MTV's long-running music video countdown on Sunday (November 16) that made the careers of artists like 50 Cent, Beyonce, Good Charlotte and Eminem.

During the "TRL" finale, the show's original host, Carson Daly, chatted with Eminem, Beyonce performed, and 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Nelly, Diddy, and others all made appearances, while fans flocked to Times Square to bid farewell to the pop culture phenomenon known as Total Request Live and watch MTV pull the plug on one of its most influential music franchises.

"I feel like they're kinda tearin' down my home," Eminem said via phone, during an interview with Daly.

"It's a bittersweet moment," Diddy, the show's most frequent guest, said as he cried mock tears from "TRL's" glass-encased studios above Times Square.

"It's a big loss, not having this as a platform to promote our music," 50 Cent also said of the show's end.

Beyonce opened the show with her brand new singles, "If I Were A Boy" and "Single Ladies," but also treated fans to one of her most successful "TRL" songs, "Crazy in Love." 50 Cent performed his smash "In Da Club," and his current hit, "Get Up."

While celebs known that it's the end of an era -- including Daily who said it was "a sad moment" -- fans outside the studios were also nostalgic about "TRL's" finale.

One group of girl's spoke with MTV and revealed that they had driven all the way from San Diego, California to be a part of "TRL's" end. Although they didn't make it up to the studio, they said the trek was worth all the trouble.

"It was an unforgettable moment," one girl told MTV News.

Their enthusiasm comes even though they drove through thunderstorms on a 42-hour drive, and then waited for 10 hours just to be in Times Square for the finale. "We came at, like, 6 in the morning, and no one was here, and then we came back at 1 [p.m.]. It was crazy!" the girls said. "We started crying, 'cause we didn't think we could get in."

They didn't get it, but said, "We were just happy to be here in New York City."

At around 11 p.m. on the east coast, "TRL" came to a close. Daly and most recent host Damien Fahey -- with fans, friends, and celebs surrounding him -- lifted their glasses of champagne, and thanked everyone who's ever appeared or worked on the show for its 10-yea run, then turned to the camera with his glass high in the air, asking: "Why are we stopping this show?"

Don Cherry has been named a National Hockey League Coach of the Year with a winning percentage of over .600 and also received Coach of the Year honours in the American Hockey League. His comments on Hockey Night in Canada’s "Coach's Corner" routinely make headlines as they entertain, educate, and often upset some fans throughout North America. He may be controversial, but no one can deny the popularity he enjoys; popularity that was reflected in his top 10 ranking in the competition to determine "The Greatest Canadian."

Now from Grapes himself comes the book that hockey fans of all ages have been waiting for. Written with veteran sports journalist Al Strachan, here are Don Cherry's favourite stories from his career in hockey. And you can imagine the stories he has to tell.

You can buy the book by clicking Here!

It's been three years since Nickelback released 2005's multi-platinum-selling All the Right Reasons and the band has just what fans have been waiting for. With "Gotta Be Somebody" and "If Today Was Your Last Day" already topping the iTunes Rock Top Songs chart, their latest release, Dark Horse, offers a solid collection of 11 brand-new tracks that range from the hard-rocking "Something In Your Mouth" to the rootsy acoustic "This Afternoon."

Road-ready, the band is looking forward to taking the new set on tour. When you download Dark Horse by November 25, your purchase will make you eligible to buy up to four tickets for Nickelback's upcoming concert tour from Ticketmaster before they go on sale to the general public. iTunes will email you a Ticketmaster Presale Password on December 1.

You can purchase Dark Horse from iTunes by clicking Here!

We're pretty excited about our first tour in Australia. Easily the furthest away from home we've been yet...and playing for people who've we've talked to online, but never seen in person. All new audience. I guess we'll have to make an impression.
And..Just as the weather is starting to turn cold up here in Toronto, we are heading south. Good timing.

Rehearsals have been going well...we're working pretty hard getting ready for the tour. These will be the longest sets we've played so far..and might include material we haven't played live before. There's still have more rehearsals to go, packing, gear checking...and I still haven't found a can of kangaroo repellent.

Only four shows..and who knows when we'll get a chance to come back (it's pretty far from Toronto, heh!). Heck yes, I am looking forward to it.

Who's Going? ...and can you help spread the word?

See you soon...
~Rhim

11.20.08 Brisbane - The Zoo
11.21.08 Sydney - Manning Bar
11.22.08 Melbourne - Central Club Hotel
11.23.08 Perth - Gilkisons

Local acts playing on select shows:
Mz Ann Thropik http://www.myspace.com/mzannthropik
Ammune System http://vampirefreaks.com/ammunesystem
and more...check them out.

Tickets online:
http://www.moshtix.com.au

While there, we also plan on coming down to meet some people and say hello at a couple of "in-store"s as well.
Peril Underground, in Melbourne on the day of that show...and Redstripe clothing, Monday the 24th, 1pm ~ 3pm @red stripe clothing in Perth!
http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=160571292&blogID=447742467

Rammstein have announced that they are to begin recording their new album this weekend.

The german industrial legends have issued the following statement about their new album:

“Now that the band has finished pre-production in Berlin for its new album, Operation ‘Album 6′ is going forward full steam ahead. Christoph Schneider (drummer) arrived in Los Angeles last week to meet with Jacob Hellner and production team (i.e., currently Ulf Kruckenberg and Florian Ammon) to undertake preparations for recording of all the drum tracks. Also to arrive in L.A. this week for the drum sessions, Paul (Landers, guitarist) and Richard (Kruspe, guitarist). Finally, a studio has been rented near San Francisco for the bulk of the main recording work, and the band will go into retreat there for several weeks starting on November 9th, 2008. Clear the decks, the Rammstein tanker is once again under steam!”

So i happened to come across a site yesterday, and it's really cool - i had to add a blog article about it! Here's the lowdown about possible one of the best music websites around - other than Last.FM

Idiomag is a UK-based website founded in 2006 by two Warwick Business School graduates, Andrew Davies and Ed Barrow, that provides digital music content to its users, in the form of a daily personalised music magazine. This magazine is viewed through the user’s browser, using the Adobe Flash Player, and can contain the full spectrum of text, images, and video. The user can then find concert dates, download music, and buy tickets.

The site also provides a widget, allowing the user’s magazine to be delivered on popular social networks such as Facebook, MySpace, and Bebo, or on individual blogs. The site aggregates content from a range of sources, both from the mainstream music press and the blogosphere, like a “glossy RSS feed”. Content is selected based on the user’s listening history, either manually entered or drawn from music sites such as Last.fm, Pandora, and iLike.

The site currently identifies around 30,000 unique users per month, from more than 18 countries and is ranked 200,783rd in web traffic by Alexa Internet. Advertising space is assigned within the magazine itself, rather than using banner ads or popups.

There's been a huge listing of concerts announced...and, here's some of 'em! If i've missed anything, let me know, and i'll do my best to add them :)

Concerts And Happenings in Medicine Hat

• Thunder Bay, ON on Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at Thunder Bay Community Auditorium
• Sarnia, ON on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at The Industry
• Hamilton, ON on Monday, November 17, 2008 at The Studio @ Hamilton Place
• Toronto, ON on Saturday, November 22, 2008 at Danforth Music Hall
• Belleville, ON on Monday, November 24, 2008 at Empire Theatre
• Halifax, NS on Friday, November 28, 2008 at The Cunard Theatre
• Fredericton, NB on Saturday, November 29, 2008 at Fredericton Playhouse

• Bonnyville, AB on Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at Centennial Centre
• Saskatoon, SK on Friday, November 14, 2008 at Odeon
• Winnipeg, MB on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at Burton Cummings Theatre
• London, ON on Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at Centennial Hall
• Hamilton, ON on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at Wentworth Room
• Toronto, ON on Friday, November 21, 2008 at Kool Haus
• Ottawa, ON on Saturday, November 22, 2008 at Civic Centre
• Montreal, PQ on Sunday, November 23, 2008 at Grey Cup
• Montreal, PQ on Sunday, November 23, 2008 at Metropolis
• Toronto, ON on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at Horseshoe Tavern

• Toronto, ON on Thursday, November 13, 2008 at The Music Hall
• Toronto, ON on Friday, November 14, 2008 at The Music Hall
• Montreal, PQ on Thursday, November 20, 2008 at Le National
• Montreal, PQ on Friday, November 21, 2008 at Le National
• Montreal, PQ on Saturday, November 22, 2008 at Le National
• Quebec City, PQ on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at Le Capitole de Quebec

With the old, comes the new! And, boy....do I have new! I told ya that I would be making up for the artists that were removed earlier. After checking the lists, and ripping some more - i did find more than 2 or 3 to add. Some were even in my library - but, i had them in the non-podcast folder. So, here's the list of what's been added, or what's being added this week!

• Armchair Cynics
• Jully Black
• Emerson Drive
• Dashboard Confessional
• Cuff The Duke
• Basia Bulat
• East Village Opera Company
• Hoobastank
• Story Of The Year
• The Hidden Cameras
• Terri Clark
• Shiny Toy Guns
• Shyne
• Boy Kill Boy
• The Fratellis
• Protest The Hero
• DJ Champion
• Wolfmother
• Epidemik
• Piolet Speed
• Matt Dusk
• Death From Above 1979
• Jakalope
• Gordon Downie
• Alison Krauss
  

Wow - this is the first time i've ever pulled something from the podcast...and, i'm hoping it's the last. I wanted to get some of the big labels on board, and due to licensing terms, Warner Music artists have been the first to get pulled. I'm very sorry guys, but, i don't want to get a cease & desist letter telling me that i have to remove them anyways. Or, in the worst case scenario, have the podcast pulled.

These are the artists that are currently "In violation". If things change, i will let you guys know. However, as of now - i wanna co-operate with the labels. The list isn't "small" - but, it's not too big right now either :)

1. Alanis Morissette
2. Billy Talent
3. Blue Rodeo
4. Buck 65
5. Great Big Sea
6. Hot Hot Heat
7. Sarah Slean
8. Simple Plan
9. Bif Naked
10. Barenaked Ladies
11. Bedouin Soundclash
12. Big Wreck
13. Comeback Kid
14. Cute Is What We Aim For
15. Daniel Powter
16. Funeral For A Friend
17. Gnarls Barkley
18. Gym Class Heroes
19. Paramore
20. Story Of The Year
21. Tantric
22. The Academy Is...
23. The Streets
24. The Veronicas
25. Unwritten Law

So it just occurred to me today that Medicine Hat is back on CWD! Amazing lol. We won it a few years ago - and, now - we're back to see if we can dominate it again.

That's prob'ly not saying much about this city lol. But, nonetheless - we actually have a cool driver in season 4 - Ashley Van Ham. She's 21, and was nominated by her husband, Bryan. Here's a little Fact sheet about her!

Ashley Van Ham, 21
Medicine Hat, Alberta
Nominated by husband Bryan

Ashley is a distracted and technically unskilled driver. She cuts people off while she is driving and doesn’t look before she changes lanes. Ashley’s favorite option on her new car is a 110V outlet so she can plug in her curling iron. She has been in six car accidents in just a couple of years. Her husband Bryan has spent well over $15K out of his own pocket to fix her car. She has become a high-risk driver and her license renewal has cost her $1,700. Husband Bryan says they should have divorce papers on hand while driving. She gets upset and frustrated in new driving situations and takes it out on Bryan who in return mocks her. She is dangerously relaxed in her hometown of Medicine Hat, but outside her comfort zone she freaks out.

Evidence:

* Two demerit points away from losing her license
* Has had six accidents in a couple of years
* Constantly argues with Bryan while in the car
* Has forked out nearly $2,000 to renew her license
* Bryan has spent over $15,000 on vehicle damage

Issues:

* Inability to make her own decisions while driving
* Relies heavily on hubby Bryan

Motivation:

* The safety of her nine-month old baby
* Keeping her license
* Financial costs of her bad driving

I will TRY and have some vids up of her ASAP! Though, with Discovery Canada, it's a little hard! So, bare with me. However, if you're Canadian, and wanna watch some of the episodes - go to discoverychannel.ca and click on the video player. To check out the first episode, you can click Here

• Nickelback: Something In Your Mouth
• Paramore: Decode
• Cute Is What We Aim For: Practice Makes Perfect
• Young Love: Give Up
• Hellogoodbye: Stuck To You
• The Academy Is...: About A Girl
• Candy Coated Chaos: Angel (Fallen Angel Mix)
• Blue Stahli: Kill Me Every Time
• Bran Van 3000: Astounded
• The Veronicas: When It All Falls Apart
• Daniel Powter: Bad Day
• McFly: I'll Be OK
• Great Big Sea: Sea Of No Cares
• The Tragically Hip: Nautical Disaster
• Sloan: The Other Man
• Matthew Good Band: The Future Is X-Rated
• Our Lady Peace: Not Enough
• Finger Eleven: I'll Keep Your Memory Vague
• Three Days Grace: On My Own
• Default: The Way We Were
• Billy Talent: This Suffering
• New Found Glory: I Don't Wanna Know
• Motion City Soundtrack: Everything Is Alright
• Cartel: Honestly
• Senses Fail: Buried A Lie

Hey guys! It's Sunday - and, it's a slow news day. What better time to update the happenings of the podcast this week.

Due to my being sick, there's not gonna be a podcast this weekend. Well, i actually have an itch to make one anyways, because there's a TON of new music that's been added! Let's make a little run through on what's been added

1. UltraViolet Sound
2. Celldweller
3. Blue Stahli
4. Candy Coated Chaos
5. The Speaks
6. The Hidden Cameras
7. Jonathan Clay
8. Katie Melua
9. The Stills

It was a zoo at the multiplex this weekend, as the animated sequel Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa easily won the box office crown, and flocks of filmgoers helped several holdovers stay strong while propelling Role Models to a bigger than expected debut. Meanwhile, the other major new release, Soul Men, had little to celebrate.

Madagascar 2 grossed a huge $63.5 mil from Friday through Sunday, according to early estimates. That sum far exceeds the $47.2 mil that the first Madagascar flick grossed over Memorial Day weekend 2005, and it's the biggest bow for any movie since The Dark Knight's record-breaking $158.4 mil haul way back in July. It's also the second-best premiere ever for an animated movie that didn't open during the summer (The Incredibles holds the current high mark, $70.5 mil), and the first-weekend total ranks seventh among those for all feature-length cartoons. By comparison, this past summer WALL-E opened with $63.1 mil and Kung Fu Panda premiered to $60.2 mil.

The causes of this success should be no mystery by now. Kids continue to be the most important and decisive cohort out there, the movie had little family-film competition, and that A- CinemaScore review (from a rare ''four quadrant'' audience that hit all major demographics) underscored how people took a shine to Madagascar 2 — and how it should hang on well for a few weeks to come.

Performing remarkably well at No. 2 was the R-rated comedy Role Models, which banked $19.3 mil, a gross that would have been enough to win just about any other non-Madagascar weekend. A successful bit of counterprogramming, the adult farce also drew an A- CinemaScore grade (from an audience that was mostly between the ages of 18 and 34), and it tallied the biggest opening ever for a movie in which Paul Rudd has a lead part. So, yes, it's now official: Everybody does, in fact, love Paul Rudd.

Three super-solid stalwarts dominated the rest of the top five. High School Musical 3: Senior Year (No. 3) grossed $9.3 mil on a 39 percent decline; the young-skewing Disney flick likely benefited from Madagascar 2's overflow traffic. Changeling (No. 4) dropped a mere 22 percent to bring in another $7.3 mil. And Zack and Miri Make a Porno (No. 5) fell just 35 percent in grossing $6.5 mil over the course of its second weekend. Thus, the Bernie Mac-Isaac Hayes swan song, Soul Men, got pushed out of the top of the chart: It banked a disappointing $5.6 mil despite garnering its own A- CinemaScore mark.

Among smaller releases, the Holocaust drama The Boy in the Striped Pajamas averaged a nice $15,000 in 17 theaters, while the cult rock musical Repo: The Genetic Opera underperformed in eight locations, grossing just $51,578.

Still, thanks to the big winners at the top of the chart, the overall box office was up 29 percent from the same frame a year ago, when Bee Movie and American Gangster held off newcomers Fred Claus and Lions for Lambs. And things continue to look up at the multiplex as the latest James Bond adventure, Quantum of Solace, which has been breaking records elsewhere in the world, is due to premiere Stateside next time around. In other words, prepare to be shaken and stirred.

William Balfour -- the only suspect in the Hudson triple murder case -- allegedly told his current girlfriend he was involved in the murders of Hudson's mother and brother, according to sources at the Chicago Tribune.

Balfour's girlfriend in turn told police what he told her. The Tribune also cites sources saying Balfour "acknowledged being at Hudson's Englewood home" on the morning Jennifer Hudson's mother and brother were shot to death inside, and Jen's nephew was abducted and later killed.

These are incredible statements considering William -- who has not been charged with a crime -- could be released tomorrow morning pending a decision by the Illinois Prisoner Review Board on whether he violated the terms of his parole.

Chicago police refused to comment.

The Birthday Massacre is coming back to Australia this month! They have announced some tour dates (I'm a little late in posting them!)

Also announced are a few U.S. Tour dates as well! They are as follows

Pointed out to me earlier, i have a problem with the commenting system here. I'm working on making it easier, trust me! Right now, the only way to comment is to click on the post title to go to that entry's page - and, then scrolling down and clicking "Post a comment"

As soon as i get more of a chance - when i'm not sick - i'll dig deeper into it and see if i can't find the way to do it!

Also, the advertising that's below the posts might be causing it, but, i'm not 100% sure on that one. When i can find the right code for removing it, i'll remove it :)

Lastly - i added the top tabs! They'll open in this window if ya just click on them. If ya want them to open in a new tab, or, new window - you're gonna have to do the long way of right clicking on the tab at the top, and then selecting "Open in new tab (Or, open in new window)".

I'll be looking into fixing that ASAP as well.

Thanks for the support guys, and hope the transition isn't all that bad! Bear with me - and, hopefully tomorrow or friday, i'll be feeling a little better - stupid infection :(


EDIT: I dunno what i did - but, i did something right! There is now a grey bar under the ad's (If ya look closely, it says something like: Wednesday, November 05, 2008....)

So, that does it - the comments are working again! Nonetheless, i still have a little bit more to tweak!

It took me a couple hours (*cough 6 and a half*) - but, it's now live and official! Let me know what ya think of it!

The subscribe thing in the RIGHT menu is a subscribe thing for the podcast! Just insert your email, and you'll be on your way to getting email updates on when the podcast gets updated! Normally, it would be used for the site - but, why take away visits? :D

There's a new search now - and, i'm working on tabs for the top menu as well. Except for a few minor changes, everything else stayed the same! New links will come - so, don't fear!

Also - in the menu under "Find Me..." - you'll notice a new link! A link to my personal blog! That's right, i actually set one up this morning before i tackled this one. So, if you wanna read more about me and my life...feel free to visit!

Well, i'm gonna go finish off the tweaking to this - and, then i'm done for the night! So, let me know what ya guys think of the new design...and, well, let's see if we can use it to it's full potential!

Votes are still being counted, but projections put Obama over the top.

When historians look back at the 2008 presidential landslide, they won't focus on the fact that Barack Obama — soon to be our 44th President and our first African American commander-in-chief — ran a smart and steady campaign. They won't focus on William Ayers or Joe the Plumber or socialism or racism. They won't debate whether John McCain blew it by targeting Pennsylvania or avoiding the press or ignoring the Rev. Jeremiah Wright or picking Sarah Palin. They won't remember the robocalls or "cling" or the Paris Hilton ad or the crazy chick who carved the B into her face. The pundits filling airtime on their 24-hour news channels might have cared, but posterity won't.

The race for the white house began a year and a half ago - and, it's just now wrapping up. Even though i'm Canadian, it's interesting to watch the U.S elections unfold. Canadian politics aren't that interesting - we're wrapped up in 3 hours or less from time of close. I do agree with Michael Moore though when he says the U.S needs to go to a system like Canada. Up here we do it with a pencil, and an X in a circle.

Hopefully ya guys didn't "Screw it up" this year (I take that from Jon Stewart.)

The east coast has wrapped up - and, a little under an hour or 2 to vote - depending on where ya live. So far, it's not a surprise to me. I'm betting it won't be a close race though...even though the news says it's too close to call in most states right now. I know where Michigan is gonna go...and, for that matter, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Shouldn't be much of a surprise. On the same note - i know where Texas is gonna go :)

Nonetheless, i'll be watching it tonight like i have for months - hard to believe that by this time tomorrow - we'll know who's gonna be next in line. Hell, even before that i think.

Let's just hope Fox News doesn't screw it up like they did in 2000.

Hey! There ya go! If ya don't feel like watchin' news - go watch recount again! Or, listen to my podcast to take a break! :D

Jeff Healey's widow wants his fans to ignore a new "unauthorized" DVD and two-CD compilation set but his former drummer Tom Stephen said Monday that the material deserves to be released.

"Jeff Healey Band - Legacy: Volume 1" highlights some of the group's best performances as it was developing into a world-renowned act, said Stephen, who also served as co-manager.

"This is music I participated in with Jeff and (bass player Joe Rockman) and it's a story of a blues-based band that against all odds managed to make some great music," he said in an interview.

"I invite fans and others to judge the project by its merit and the music itself."

Cristie Healey said last week that she was "deeply and sadly disappointed" to learn about the new release and called on fans to boycott it.

She said it was not authorized by Healey's estate and was hastily thrown together "to exploit Jeff's name" following the guitarist's death in March after a long battle with cancer.

But Stephen said the compilation had been in the works for years and that since he owns the material he has a "legal and moral right" to release it.

"This has been done with a lot of affection and a lot of care," Stephen said, adding that he envisions releasing more volumes of archived material from the band's 18-year career.

Healey's CD "Mess of Blues" was released with the estate's blessing in the spring, and other releases approved by the estate are in the works.

A spokesman for the Healey estate said Monday it had no further comment.