So I was watching one of my favorite internet shows, the Totally Rad Show (http://www.totallyradshow.com) and they were talking about a game I have little to no interest in but I knew from the beginning would be getting great reviews: Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2. This game doesn't interest me for several reasons, but it seriously is just an opinion thing. Oh, and they mentioned how everyone just uses 'colorful' language on Xbox Live, you guys might consider switching to the PSN; it's free and I rarely run into the little high-pitched voiced kids who like to swear a lot. But as I listened to their review though I realized a few things about video games in general and I think I have figured out the secret to video games.
There is a philosophy, forgive me for not knowing the originator of the thought (if there is one?), that there is no original thought. Everything you think, has already been thought of before. Everything you say and do, has been done by something else. The fact that you can come up with a good idea is simply a combination of influences in your life and viewing someone else doing something that even that combination is unoriginal. That being said, video games are unoriginal correct? It's basically the same thing with a new skin to it. Problem is video games haven't been around for thousand of years so I believe something new can come around every once in awhile.
Like any good idea, it's likely to get stolen and branded as "new" by the thief. We all know this to be true. Musical lyrics and riffs are stolen and "used" or "slightly modified" is my favorite saying. Political ideas are traded between persons. Heck, even cookies have no-name brand ripoffs that are cheaper and usually taste better too. So why not video games? In the TRS review they made a comment about how they liked the XP system in the multiplayer of CoD:MW2. They liked how you could create streaks and gain extra XP through various events. In ignorance I'm sure they forgot that this was introduced earlier this year in the game Red Faction: Guerrilla. Even then, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if I was proven wrong, and that someone had this system before RFG.
I only write this because it frustrates me to not see credit given where credit is due. I believe the guys who worked on the newest installment of Red Faction created this system and now the Call of Duty series is just stealing it. If a gaming studio just admitted "hey yeah, we just took everything we liked out of all our favorite games!" and made a really good game, I don't think I would mind so much. But, this is the way the world turns; and I know I can't change it. Just thought I would put my dent into the internet that people should seek out creators and originators and try as you might to give credit where credit is due.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
The Advantages to Marrying a Nerd
Ok so it's been a long time coming, basically because I lost the speech shortly after the wedding. Fortunately, someone was video taping and I was able to transcribe what I said. I'd say it's pretty accurate to what I had written down in the first place, so enjoy!
I am Daniel Custer I am Stephen's younger brother, despite beating him to being married and being taller than him. But I know that growing up, Stephen and I have a lot of memories, I'm not going to lie, not all of them are good and brothers are brothers; I won't talk about the fights or anything bad. Because we have some really good memories together. I know we always talk about playing Legos together and we played micro machines together and playing Nintendo. I actually watch him play but now I play. Playing ninja turtles, and breaking my ninja turtles and then him replacing my ninja turtles. Building forts in our family room with couch pillows and blankets. And definitely climbing multiple trees outside with a rope swing and stuff like that. We had a lot of good times growing up.
But Stephen was always the nerdy type. Definitely the nerdy type. He was a book worm of sorts, he was a straight A student which is fun being the younger brother who went to the same high school. So there was some conflict in our household at times. But it's because Stephen and I are very different. Even though we had our rough patches, I wanted to assure you Kari that there are some advantages to marrying a nerd. So this is my speech: "The Advantages to Marrying a Nerd." Single people pay attention.
First advantage is that if you have a question, he has an answer because nerds are smart; and if he doesn't know the answer he'll find it for you because he just has to know.
Second is nerds don't usually get the girl, so he will do anything to keep you. Now please don't abuse that, but feel free to ask him to take out the trash.
Third is nerds know numbers. You don't have to worry about the budget, the checkbook, when a birthday is or your anniversary is because he will always remember. Because nerds remember all kinds of numbers.
Another thing, nerds are genuine. Ok this is a plus, it's not all funny. He's not going to speak in riddles, I know we've had talks about you wondered what he meant by things in the beginning ; he didn't mean anything. He doesn't speak in code and he won't lead you on.
And most importantly Kari is that you're marrying a guy who loves Jesus, and he knows forgiveness both giving and receiving; and he knows how to give himself for others. Despite all the arguments Stephen and I may have had, I've always known that my brother has my back; and that will be good in a marriage too. Marriage isn't always easy, as I'm sure everyone is telling you. You guys are going to have arguments and you're going to have fights. But you will never, NEVER, have to worry because no matter what, this guy has your back. He will stand with you to the very end. And I can assure you that you never have to worry about him ever being so mad at you that he wouldn't protect you because it will never happen. Stephen will always stand by your side, through thick and thin, and that is his greatest strength. And I'm sure it will carry your marriage for many years. So to Stephen and Kari!
I am Daniel Custer I am Stephen's younger brother, despite beating him to being married and being taller than him. But I know that growing up, Stephen and I have a lot of memories, I'm not going to lie, not all of them are good and brothers are brothers; I won't talk about the fights or anything bad. Because we have some really good memories together. I know we always talk about playing Legos together and we played micro machines together and playing Nintendo. I actually watch him play but now I play. Playing ninja turtles, and breaking my ninja turtles and then him replacing my ninja turtles. Building forts in our family room with couch pillows and blankets. And definitely climbing multiple trees outside with a rope swing and stuff like that. We had a lot of good times growing up.
But Stephen was always the nerdy type. Definitely the nerdy type. He was a book worm of sorts, he was a straight A student which is fun being the younger brother who went to the same high school. So there was some conflict in our household at times. But it's because Stephen and I are very different. Even though we had our rough patches, I wanted to assure you Kari that there are some advantages to marrying a nerd. So this is my speech: "The Advantages to Marrying a Nerd." Single people pay attention.
First advantage is that if you have a question, he has an answer because nerds are smart; and if he doesn't know the answer he'll find it for you because he just has to know.
Second is nerds don't usually get the girl, so he will do anything to keep you. Now please don't abuse that, but feel free to ask him to take out the trash.
Third is nerds know numbers. You don't have to worry about the budget, the checkbook, when a birthday is or your anniversary is because he will always remember. Because nerds remember all kinds of numbers.
Another thing, nerds are genuine. Ok this is a plus, it's not all funny. He's not going to speak in riddles, I know we've had talks about you wondered what he meant by things in the beginning ; he didn't mean anything. He doesn't speak in code and he won't lead you on.
And most importantly Kari is that you're marrying a guy who loves Jesus, and he knows forgiveness both giving and receiving; and he knows how to give himself for others. Despite all the arguments Stephen and I may have had, I've always known that my brother has my back; and that will be good in a marriage too. Marriage isn't always easy, as I'm sure everyone is telling you. You guys are going to have arguments and you're going to have fights. But you will never, NEVER, have to worry because no matter what, this guy has your back. He will stand with you to the very end. And I can assure you that you never have to worry about him ever being so mad at you that he wouldn't protect you because it will never happen. Stephen will always stand by your side, through thick and thin, and that is his greatest strength. And I'm sure it will carry your marriage for many years. So to Stephen and Kari!
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Primary or Secondary Ministry?
So my brother FINALLY got married, haha, this last weekend. And while that has it's own blog forthcoming, I wanted to make a quick post about something that's been going through my mind lately. I'm currently searching/hoping for a full-time ministry position at a church in or around Salem Oregon. I know some of you are laughing already because there is nothing there in terms of ministry jobs, but whatever.
I had a very intriguing conversation with one of my brother's friends who was a groomsmen this weekend about ministry and what it means to be a part of a church. He was talking about how he was the junior high minster to 6 kids. It was volunteer, with no intention of moving it to a paid position, let alone full-time, but he knew that was what he was supposed to be doing.
I told him about my situation: that I had done part-time ministry for 2 years and the problems that occur when you try to balance two jobs. The other job gets in the way of ministry, you can't get time off, and there are just some things the church must get done. It creates serious problems. However the way he described his church's setup intrigued me. The church was run pretty much all by volunteers. People who went to the church didn't really have a choice or not about getting involved in some way, shape, or form: they had to or the church didn't run. It made me wonder if full-time ministry is where I should be looking.
At first I felt like looking for another part-time ministry position would be below me; that I have a degree so I should only look for full-time. I know that might sound arrogant to some of you but if you have a college degree in something you probably know how I feel. Anyway, it made me also think of several friends, even my father-in-law, who work at a church on top of another job. Many of them make it work, why? It seems that they have a lot more flexibility than I had. I guess it really just depends on the church, I'm not real sure. I suppose if God can make it fit/work, then I would do it again. My brother's friend had a good point that working outside the church has it's benefits, even more so when you can talk about your "other" job at the church with agnostic co-workers at your supporting job.
I suppose the reason I'm typing all this at 2 in the morning is to see what others thing. Should ministry positions be full-time or is it better to have a ministry job and a non-ministry job? What, in your opinion, is better? I know there is no right answer, just say what you feel. Is it good to support a model of a church that is small and mostly volunteer based and honorable to use formal training at a Bible college, or a waste? Or should someone with more experience and expertise only look for full-time ministry positions? I'm only sounding harsh to show extremes. Feel free to converse.
I had a very intriguing conversation with one of my brother's friends who was a groomsmen this weekend about ministry and what it means to be a part of a church. He was talking about how he was the junior high minster to 6 kids. It was volunteer, with no intention of moving it to a paid position, let alone full-time, but he knew that was what he was supposed to be doing.
I told him about my situation: that I had done part-time ministry for 2 years and the problems that occur when you try to balance two jobs. The other job gets in the way of ministry, you can't get time off, and there are just some things the church must get done. It creates serious problems. However the way he described his church's setup intrigued me. The church was run pretty much all by volunteers. People who went to the church didn't really have a choice or not about getting involved in some way, shape, or form: they had to or the church didn't run. It made me wonder if full-time ministry is where I should be looking.
At first I felt like looking for another part-time ministry position would be below me; that I have a degree so I should only look for full-time. I know that might sound arrogant to some of you but if you have a college degree in something you probably know how I feel. Anyway, it made me also think of several friends, even my father-in-law, who work at a church on top of another job. Many of them make it work, why? It seems that they have a lot more flexibility than I had. I guess it really just depends on the church, I'm not real sure. I suppose if God can make it fit/work, then I would do it again. My brother's friend had a good point that working outside the church has it's benefits, even more so when you can talk about your "other" job at the church with agnostic co-workers at your supporting job.
I suppose the reason I'm typing all this at 2 in the morning is to see what others thing. Should ministry positions be full-time or is it better to have a ministry job and a non-ministry job? What, in your opinion, is better? I know there is no right answer, just say what you feel. Is it good to support a model of a church that is small and mostly volunteer based and honorable to use formal training at a Bible college, or a waste? Or should someone with more experience and expertise only look for full-time ministry positions? I'm only sounding harsh to show extremes. Feel free to converse.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Playstation 3 Trophies
So the Playstation3 was a little slow in adding something comparable to the "other" system's achievement points. The Xbox360 uses achievements where, when you complete a certain task, you receive a predetermined amount of achievement points for doing that specific task. Some achievements were more difficult than others and therefore worth more points. Therefore people could fight over who had the highest achievement score; and I once worked with some who are considered "achievement hunters" who would buy/rent games just to get all the achievements. The Playstation3 has had trophies available for awhile now, and I'm wondering how much it adds to game-play.
Trophies are slightly different from achievements in that there are no points, only trophy tiers. There is bronze, silver, gold, and platinum level trophies. I find this simpler, but not as defined. Different tier trophies have different unnamed values that affect your trophy level. For example, I have a mix of just over 100 bronze, silver, and gold trophies and just achieved a trophy level of 5. This is to really measure who is more ahead when you argue with friends about who has more trophies. With achievement points you have a number, with trophies you can get into "Well I have more gold trophies than you" but still be behind in terms of trophy level.
The first annoyance is that not every game has trophies. Older games can come out with patches to add them, but games before January 1st 2009 was not required to have trophies. That said, games with trophies tend to be more popular. I do think it is now a selling point for people; that if a game doesn't have trophies they consider not buying it which is too bad. I have played a few games with them, but I mostly have trophies from Unreal Tournament III and Resistance 2. At first these games are just fun in playing and I would randomly see in the corner that I got a trophy for something I just accomplished. However, as time goes on, I start working specifically for certain trophies that stretches both me and the game beyond what I would normally do as a gamer. I think I like this, it makes the game last longer and gives the player more to do beyond just beating a game.
I also like it in the fact that you can banter with friends over who has more trophies. I do think it is silly when people play every game just to get as many trophies as possible and be a "trophy hunter" to have the most. I know there are tons of people who have way more trophies than me, I don't care and good for them. What I care about and what is fun is just having more than your friends, the people you know. I know there are people who are trophy level 10 and have over 1000 trophies; but all I'm fighting for is to get enough to be ahead of my friends. It's good for bantering and annoying others with, especially when you're neck-and-neck and it's a constant fight; but I also realize that ultimately it's pointless. Playstation3 trophies don't change the world. However, I think I'll keep playing just enough to beat Rick :P
Trophies are slightly different from achievements in that there are no points, only trophy tiers. There is bronze, silver, gold, and platinum level trophies. I find this simpler, but not as defined. Different tier trophies have different unnamed values that affect your trophy level. For example, I have a mix of just over 100 bronze, silver, and gold trophies and just achieved a trophy level of 5. This is to really measure who is more ahead when you argue with friends about who has more trophies. With achievement points you have a number, with trophies you can get into "Well I have more gold trophies than you" but still be behind in terms of trophy level.
The first annoyance is that not every game has trophies. Older games can come out with patches to add them, but games before January 1st 2009 was not required to have trophies. That said, games with trophies tend to be more popular. I do think it is now a selling point for people; that if a game doesn't have trophies they consider not buying it which is too bad. I have played a few games with them, but I mostly have trophies from Unreal Tournament III and Resistance 2. At first these games are just fun in playing and I would randomly see in the corner that I got a trophy for something I just accomplished. However, as time goes on, I start working specifically for certain trophies that stretches both me and the game beyond what I would normally do as a gamer. I think I like this, it makes the game last longer and gives the player more to do beyond just beating a game.
I also like it in the fact that you can banter with friends over who has more trophies. I do think it is silly when people play every game just to get as many trophies as possible and be a "trophy hunter" to have the most. I know there are tons of people who have way more trophies than me, I don't care and good for them. What I care about and what is fun is just having more than your friends, the people you know. I know there are people who are trophy level 10 and have over 1000 trophies; but all I'm fighting for is to get enough to be ahead of my friends. It's good for bantering and annoying others with, especially when you're neck-and-neck and it's a constant fight; but I also realize that ultimately it's pointless. Playstation3 trophies don't change the world. However, I think I'll keep playing just enough to beat Rick :P
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Our Desires and God's Faithfulness
I truly believe that you have a deep passion for something, a deep desire; something that you don't even remember where or when it originated, but just know it to be a fact for you, that God will honor that request. I bring up this point about deep desires because recently I had a real scare of my life. I'm warning you now that some of the content of this blog is a little revealing and I am being somewhat vulnerable; which I don't mind but just know this blog has some sensitive material. That said, I've always known I wanted to be a Dad. Don't get excited yet, Rachel and I are not having kids yet. But the "yet" is exactly my point.
When I was younger I had A.L.L. cancer, which was a kind of leukemia that I had to take certain drugs that, while they helped cure me, had sterilizing effects. I've known for a few years now that there was a possibility that I could be sterile; that would mean that I have no active sperm and therefore could not have kids. Both my cancer doctor and personal doctor told me that I was most likely fine, and if I ever wanted to get tested I could, but I didn't bother because I was single at the time. Now that I'm married, and Rachel was aware, it's a little more of an issue.
When I was sick last month, I went to a new doctor up here who noticed my cancer history and was fairly blunt in stating that I was probably sterile. I was extremely taken aback by it; my doctor's had said the opposite, and a cancer doctor has a better idea than this family physician, but it still got to me, a lot. It was finally hitting me that I might not get to have any kids that were my own, and I'll be honest, I was being greedy. I was being greedy in that I wanted my own kids, or at least just one; and didn't think I could, or really wanted to, adopt kids. Rachel assured me that no matter what, she was going to stay with me and loved me whether we had kids or not. I was truly devastated for a few weeks, so I finally decided that health insurance or no, I was going to do this sperm analysis test anyway to put my mind at ease one way or another.
I finally got the results of my test and I am happy to say that I am completely normal; normal being that none of the sterilizing drugs effected me in that manner. This was probably because I had them before puberty and, to be frank, there was nothing to sterilize. I'm overjoyed that God has honored our prayers and given us the gift of fertility, that we have the ability to have children. I know that there are people in this world who are not as fortunate. I applaud those who adopt kids and those who forge on despite bad news of infertility. For a few weeks, I really felt and believed I was among you; I know how it feels. I thank God that Rachel and I have the ability to have our own kids in the future!
When I was younger I had A.L.L. cancer, which was a kind of leukemia that I had to take certain drugs that, while they helped cure me, had sterilizing effects. I've known for a few years now that there was a possibility that I could be sterile; that would mean that I have no active sperm and therefore could not have kids. Both my cancer doctor and personal doctor told me that I was most likely fine, and if I ever wanted to get tested I could, but I didn't bother because I was single at the time. Now that I'm married, and Rachel was aware, it's a little more of an issue.
When I was sick last month, I went to a new doctor up here who noticed my cancer history and was fairly blunt in stating that I was probably sterile. I was extremely taken aback by it; my doctor's had said the opposite, and a cancer doctor has a better idea than this family physician, but it still got to me, a lot. It was finally hitting me that I might not get to have any kids that were my own, and I'll be honest, I was being greedy. I was being greedy in that I wanted my own kids, or at least just one; and didn't think I could, or really wanted to, adopt kids. Rachel assured me that no matter what, she was going to stay with me and loved me whether we had kids or not. I was truly devastated for a few weeks, so I finally decided that health insurance or no, I was going to do this sperm analysis test anyway to put my mind at ease one way or another.
I finally got the results of my test and I am happy to say that I am completely normal; normal being that none of the sterilizing drugs effected me in that manner. This was probably because I had them before puberty and, to be frank, there was nothing to sterilize. I'm overjoyed that God has honored our prayers and given us the gift of fertility, that we have the ability to have children. I know that there are people in this world who are not as fortunate. I applaud those who adopt kids and those who forge on despite bad news of infertility. For a few weeks, I really felt and believed I was among you; I know how it feels. I thank God that Rachel and I have the ability to have our own kids in the future!
Friday, May 1, 2009
My Top 15 Albums
In light of my top 10 movies, I wanted to do a top 10 albums. I couldn't narrow it down to just 10, so I thought about doing favorite artists. While almost all of my favorite artists are amazing from start to current/finish, some have hiccups, albums that bombed or sucked, so I threw that idea out. So I thought, screw having a top 10, I'm going to do a top 15!
Basically the criteria is the same as for my movies. These are albums that I keep coming back to again and again. I love majority/all of the songs on them and I can only rarely get sick of listening to them. Feel free to leave comments, and also feel free to write your own blog about your top 10, 15 or 2000 albums as well!
1. Ataris - So Long, Astoria
Obviously the Ataris makes the top of my list. I love this album. There is not a single song on here I don't not like. "In This Diary" is by far the most awesome song ever, and "My Reply" is a great song about real life. "The Hero Dies In This One" is another great song that is sung with so much passion it makes you stop and contemplate your own life. Other favorites are "Looking Back on Today" and of course "So Long, Astoria" If I haven't already influenced you, go check this album out.
2. Steven Curtis Chapman - Speechless
Taking a step back in time, before I discovered the ear-throbbing that is punk rock, I was and still am a big Steven Curtis Chapman fan. Speechless wasn't my first album from him, but it was the one that really got me to love him. The songs "Dive" and "Whatever" are awesome. He also knows how to slow it down with songs like "The Invitation" and "Be Still and Know" I know the album is older, but it's a goodie.
3. Audio Adrenaline - Underdog
Looking up when some of these albums comes out makes me feel old. Regardless, this album swayed me in the ways of Audio Adrenaline, plus I got to meet them on their Underdog tour. This album starts off strong and delivers from start to finish. It pumps you up with "Mighty Good Leader" and "Underdog" but one of my favorites was "This Day" another contemplative song about following God throughout life. Most have probably heard of Audio Adrenaline but perhaps have not explored their older stuff, this is one worth finding.
4. Supertones - Chase The Sun
Yep, 1999 was a good year, and the Supertones delivered just like everyone else it seems. A little unknown fact about me is that I love ska. People think I love punk, and I do, but not nearly as much as a good ska group or even half ska/rock group. This Supertones album is my favorite of theirs, and I could only decide on it because everytime I decide to listen to them, I grab this one, nearly every time. Songs that rock are "One Voice" and "Chase the Sun" is great, also "Grounded" and "Hanani" are pumping. "Refuge" is my contemplative song for this album.
5. Jennifer Knapp - Kansas
Just to throw everyone off, I had a huge crush on Jennifer Knapp. She was attractive, she could sing, and she could play guitar (my wife blows Jennifer out of the water on two of those!). I never get sick of going back to listening to Jennifer Knapp. "Martyrs and Thieves" is by far my favorite song, but also "Whole Again" and "Undo Me" are great; basically the whole album is contemplative since that is what Jennifer is good at.
6. Five Iron Frenzy - Quantity is Job 1
If I could have one band back that has broken up, it would be FIF. I only got to see them live for their final tour, and it was awesome. Everytime I listen to FIF, I always wish they would get back together and do some kind of reunion tour. This is my favorite album for two simple reasons: it was the first FIF I heard, and it has the song "Dandelions" on it. Other good songs are "My Evil Plan to Save the World" as well as the whole "Pants Opera" at the end.
7. Hangnail - Self Titled
If you want straight punk-rock from start to finish, any Hangnail album will do. This is my favorite probably because it is my first, and unfortunately, I found out about Hangnail after they had already broken up. Songs "Friendly Advice" and "Decision Making" are good, also "Worthless" which is the first song I ever heard by them. It's hard to pick favorites because the album is so solid all the way through.
8. Amber Pacific - Truth In Sincerity
Amber Pacific was awesome because I knew the guitar player; and although Justin no longer plays with them, they are still awesome. Then they got a single, "Fall Back Into My Life" on the TMNT soundtrack, which made them even more awesome. Other rocking songs are "Temporary" and "Follow Your Dreams, Forget the Scene" that will get stuck in your head. You'll also hum along after you turn it off with "Summer" and "You're Only Young Once" but it's awesome the whole time.
9. Stellar Kart - We Can't Stand Sitting Down
Another solid punk rock album from start to finish. Stellar Kart's first album was good, but this second one blew it out of the water. With awesome songs like "Activate" and "Procrastinating" at the beginning; it's just an awesome album. I also really like that Stellar Kart is a popular Christian band that actually mentions Jesus, apparently that isn't as cool as it used to be.
10. Yellowcard - Ocean Avenue
I realize it's the cool and probably popular thing to say I liked this album by yellowcard, but it's just a true fact. "Way Away" and "Breathing" kick it off and it doesn't slow down much with "Ocean Avenue" and my favorite "Only One" Any band that can be punk and throw a violinist into the mix, AND make it sound really cool, is good in my book.
11. Thousand Foot Krutch - Set If Off
Frontman Trevor McNevan is like a train that you either jump on with or get mowed down by. The guy is constantly writing awesome stuff for his two bands. TFK's first album rocks for me, some might not like it because it's more rap/rock than hard rock. Awesome songs are "Puppet" and "When In Doubt" which actually played on the radio back in the day. I also love "Lift It" and have played it multiple times in church.
12. FM Static - Dear Diary
Speaking of TFK, FM Static kind of started as Trevor's side-project, but is now a force to be reckoned with. I got their newest album for my birthday and I absolutely love it! FM Static delivers in catchy pop-punk tunes and great lyrics. It starts off hard with "Boy Moves to a New Town with Optimistic Outlook" and "The Unavoidable Battle of Feeling on the Outside" but later moves to more contemplative songs like "The Voyage of Beliefs" and "Take Me As I am" I can't decide which song is my favorite, there are that many that are that good.
13. Raze - Power
Raze is my techno be-happy music. When I first heard Raze I immediately liked them, and am pretty sure I was the only person who did. Fortunately I was wrong, lots of people like Raze (I married one :) yea). With songs like "All Around the World" and "Say the Word" you could start your own club. They also had some awesome singles with "Place In My Heart" and "Always and Forever" which are some of the worst music videos I've ever seen, youtube it if you dare, but I still love them.
14. Pax 217 - Self-titled
This album has a special place in my heart because after I got my license and had to learn stickshift by myself, this was the album I listened to; that, and it's awesome. I felt that Pax217 had a very unique sound, between rock and some rap, it's great stuff to get pumped to. "A.M." and "Gratitude" as well as "Sandbox Praise" and "Prizm" are all awesome songs. But I still love "Until The Sun" the most, even as the song fades out with the simple guitar riff, I never want it to end, like a good sunset.
15. Olivia the Band - Self-titled
Another great punk rock Christian band that isn't afraid to admit it and is highly underrated. I'm constantly afraid to get the news that Olivia the Band is gone because their record sales barely got by with this album, and I don't know how well their second is doing which is also really good. The album starts strong with "Stars and Stripes" and "Shut It Out" and ends strong with "Novocain" and "Kid Innocence" but is also a slow end with "Missing" which is a great song. I guess I like punk rock bands that get me pumped, but leave me contemplating at the end.
Basically the criteria is the same as for my movies. These are albums that I keep coming back to again and again. I love majority/all of the songs on them and I can only rarely get sick of listening to them. Feel free to leave comments, and also feel free to write your own blog about your top 10, 15 or 2000 albums as well!
1. Ataris - So Long, Astoria
Obviously the Ataris makes the top of my list. I love this album. There is not a single song on here I don't not like. "In This Diary" is by far the most awesome song ever, and "My Reply" is a great song about real life. "The Hero Dies In This One" is another great song that is sung with so much passion it makes you stop and contemplate your own life. Other favorites are "Looking Back on Today" and of course "So Long, Astoria" If I haven't already influenced you, go check this album out.
2. Steven Curtis Chapman - Speechless
Taking a step back in time, before I discovered the ear-throbbing that is punk rock, I was and still am a big Steven Curtis Chapman fan. Speechless wasn't my first album from him, but it was the one that really got me to love him. The songs "Dive" and "Whatever" are awesome. He also knows how to slow it down with songs like "The Invitation" and "Be Still and Know" I know the album is older, but it's a goodie.
3. Audio Adrenaline - Underdog
Looking up when some of these albums comes out makes me feel old. Regardless, this album swayed me in the ways of Audio Adrenaline, plus I got to meet them on their Underdog tour. This album starts off strong and delivers from start to finish. It pumps you up with "Mighty Good Leader" and "Underdog" but one of my favorites was "This Day" another contemplative song about following God throughout life. Most have probably heard of Audio Adrenaline but perhaps have not explored their older stuff, this is one worth finding.
4. Supertones - Chase The Sun
Yep, 1999 was a good year, and the Supertones delivered just like everyone else it seems. A little unknown fact about me is that I love ska. People think I love punk, and I do, but not nearly as much as a good ska group or even half ska/rock group. This Supertones album is my favorite of theirs, and I could only decide on it because everytime I decide to listen to them, I grab this one, nearly every time. Songs that rock are "One Voice" and "Chase the Sun" is great, also "Grounded" and "Hanani" are pumping. "Refuge" is my contemplative song for this album.
5. Jennifer Knapp - Kansas
Just to throw everyone off, I had a huge crush on Jennifer Knapp. She was attractive, she could sing, and she could play guitar (my wife blows Jennifer out of the water on two of those!). I never get sick of going back to listening to Jennifer Knapp. "Martyrs and Thieves" is by far my favorite song, but also "Whole Again" and "Undo Me" are great; basically the whole album is contemplative since that is what Jennifer is good at.
6. Five Iron Frenzy - Quantity is Job 1
If I could have one band back that has broken up, it would be FIF. I only got to see them live for their final tour, and it was awesome. Everytime I listen to FIF, I always wish they would get back together and do some kind of reunion tour. This is my favorite album for two simple reasons: it was the first FIF I heard, and it has the song "Dandelions" on it. Other good songs are "My Evil Plan to Save the World" as well as the whole "Pants Opera" at the end.
7. Hangnail - Self Titled
If you want straight punk-rock from start to finish, any Hangnail album will do. This is my favorite probably because it is my first, and unfortunately, I found out about Hangnail after they had already broken up. Songs "Friendly Advice" and "Decision Making" are good, also "Worthless" which is the first song I ever heard by them. It's hard to pick favorites because the album is so solid all the way through.
8. Amber Pacific - Truth In Sincerity
Amber Pacific was awesome because I knew the guitar player; and although Justin no longer plays with them, they are still awesome. Then they got a single, "Fall Back Into My Life" on the TMNT soundtrack, which made them even more awesome. Other rocking songs are "Temporary" and "Follow Your Dreams, Forget the Scene" that will get stuck in your head. You'll also hum along after you turn it off with "Summer" and "You're Only Young Once" but it's awesome the whole time.
9. Stellar Kart - We Can't Stand Sitting Down
Another solid punk rock album from start to finish. Stellar Kart's first album was good, but this second one blew it out of the water. With awesome songs like "Activate" and "Procrastinating" at the beginning; it's just an awesome album. I also really like that Stellar Kart is a popular Christian band that actually mentions Jesus, apparently that isn't as cool as it used to be.
10. Yellowcard - Ocean Avenue
I realize it's the cool and probably popular thing to say I liked this album by yellowcard, but it's just a true fact. "Way Away" and "Breathing" kick it off and it doesn't slow down much with "Ocean Avenue" and my favorite "Only One" Any band that can be punk and throw a violinist into the mix, AND make it sound really cool, is good in my book.
11. Thousand Foot Krutch - Set If Off
Frontman Trevor McNevan is like a train that you either jump on with or get mowed down by. The guy is constantly writing awesome stuff for his two bands. TFK's first album rocks for me, some might not like it because it's more rap/rock than hard rock. Awesome songs are "Puppet" and "When In Doubt" which actually played on the radio back in the day. I also love "Lift It" and have played it multiple times in church.
12. FM Static - Dear Diary
Speaking of TFK, FM Static kind of started as Trevor's side-project, but is now a force to be reckoned with. I got their newest album for my birthday and I absolutely love it! FM Static delivers in catchy pop-punk tunes and great lyrics. It starts off hard with "Boy Moves to a New Town with Optimistic Outlook" and "The Unavoidable Battle of Feeling on the Outside" but later moves to more contemplative songs like "The Voyage of Beliefs" and "Take Me As I am" I can't decide which song is my favorite, there are that many that are that good.
13. Raze - Power
Raze is my techno be-happy music. When I first heard Raze I immediately liked them, and am pretty sure I was the only person who did. Fortunately I was wrong, lots of people like Raze (I married one :) yea). With songs like "All Around the World" and "Say the Word" you could start your own club. They also had some awesome singles with "Place In My Heart" and "Always and Forever" which are some of the worst music videos I've ever seen, youtube it if you dare, but I still love them.
14. Pax 217 - Self-titled
This album has a special place in my heart because after I got my license and had to learn stickshift by myself, this was the album I listened to; that, and it's awesome. I felt that Pax217 had a very unique sound, between rock and some rap, it's great stuff to get pumped to. "A.M." and "Gratitude" as well as "Sandbox Praise" and "Prizm" are all awesome songs. But I still love "Until The Sun" the most, even as the song fades out with the simple guitar riff, I never want it to end, like a good sunset.
15. Olivia the Band - Self-titled
Another great punk rock Christian band that isn't afraid to admit it and is highly underrated. I'm constantly afraid to get the news that Olivia the Band is gone because their record sales barely got by with this album, and I don't know how well their second is doing which is also really good. The album starts strong with "Stars and Stripes" and "Shut It Out" and ends strong with "Novocain" and "Kid Innocence" but is also a slow end with "Missing" which is a great song. I guess I like punk rock bands that get me pumped, but leave me contemplating at the end.
Monday, April 13, 2009
My Top 10 Movies
I was sitting looking and thinking about movies, how many there are, and how many I have and have not seen. It's insane when you think about it. I try not to be the guy who owns every movie; I don't just go buy something because it's cool or because I saw it once and thought it was just 'alright'. I want my movie collection to say something about me, people have often looked at it and gone "yep, that's Dan" because it's mostly comedy.
Then I thought about movies do I just never get sick of no matter how many times I watch them? This is a good question to ask because it makes you realize which discs get burned out and which ones you could probably get rid of. Feel free to leave comments, but don't give me your top 10 in them; if you want, write a blog of your top 10 so others can read it and comment on it as well! So here is my top 10 list of movies that I love AND never get sick of watching.
1. Star Wars Trilogies
Who didn't see that coming? It's true, I am a Star Wars fanatic and love everything about it. What is in Star Wars that isn't fully awesome? Lightsabers, the force, Yoda, Jedi, Smugglers, Gangsters, Jawas (yeah, I said it), love, hate, conflict; the list goes on. Let's just say I can't narrow it down to one movie, and yes I do like the prequel trilogy too so this is just one big clump.
2. Back to the Future Trilogy
I promise this isn't a whole list of trilogies, there's only a few. Back to the Future definitely comes from my childhood. I play guitar because Marty McFly is awesome and Johnny B. Goode is so much fun to watch and play. The concept is awesome, the casting is perfect, and even Back to the Future 3 was cool.
3. Ninja Turtles Trilogy (plus TMNT even!)
Ok last one I promise. Again, the ninja turtles movies are from my childhood. The creators must have been smoking something to come up with the idea of teenage-sized, walking, talking, ninjitsu trained turtles; but it's awesome! If I had to pick one movie it would be a fight between I and II, but probably II; III was still good, and the new TMNT movie that was CGI was also full of awesome ninja turtle action!
4. Goonies
Who doesn't love the Goonies? You either love this movie, or you've never seen it. Goonies was a good old 80's movie about a bunch of kids who go on a treasure hunt. First off, how awesome is that? What kid didn't go on a 'treasure hunt'? Well these kids went on a real one, and it's a great adventure that never gets old.
5. The Mask
Jim Carrey is possibly my favorite comedic actor. The Mask was in his prime years (Dumb and Dumber was up there, also think of Ace Ventura) and is by far my favorite movie of his. It was the perfect combination of the average joe with superpowers that many could relate to. And he even got the girl at the end.
6. School of Rock
Jack Black is also up there in comedic roles. School of Rock is a pretty unique movie, where the kids are the musician stars. I also like this movie because Jack Black was taught how to play his guitar parts by the kid, Zack, as he would probably have to teach me too; that kid is amazing. Actually all the kids are amazing at what they do; that's what makes it a such good movie.
7. Stardust
Now this might surprise some, but this movie is awesome. I originally thought it was a chick flick, and while there is the theme of love, this is one of the best adventure movies I've ever seen. A boy becomes a man, and one of my favorite themes is that he learns that love is more than just looks and feelings, it's about living an adventure together.
8. Kung-Fu Panda
Now this one probably didn't surprise anyone. Why I like this movie: Jack Black, Pandas (favorite animal), kung-fu, awesomeness, great animation, great story, awesome point! The whole movie is about being yourself and not trying to be something you can't. You can't reach your full potential until you just be yourself. It's hilarious, it's a kid's movie, and adults can love it too.
9. The Little Mermaid
I'm not ashamed to admit that this is my favorite Disney movie; it always has been and it always will be. This movie came out when I was 4, I'm old, and I've loved it ever since. I can't really pinpoint why: the music, the story, the character-lovability factor; it's just all so good. Can't get sick of singing "Under the Sea" or "Part Of Your World" possibly the best soundtrack.
10. Without A Paddle
While I love comedy, if a movie can cause emotion within the viewer it's a winner. I'm fairly unemotional when it comes to movies; I mean it's people acting, it's not real. But when there is a really good point to a movie tied with an adventure (see Goonies and Stardust) it can get to me. While this movie is without a doubt a comedy, the sense of adventure and doing something totally stupid with your friends stirs in me. I love adventures, and I love adventure movies that can give me the sense that I'm along for the ride too.
Then I thought about movies do I just never get sick of no matter how many times I watch them? This is a good question to ask because it makes you realize which discs get burned out and which ones you could probably get rid of. Feel free to leave comments, but don't give me your top 10 in them; if you want, write a blog of your top 10 so others can read it and comment on it as well! So here is my top 10 list of movies that I love AND never get sick of watching.
1. Star Wars Trilogies
Who didn't see that coming? It's true, I am a Star Wars fanatic and love everything about it. What is in Star Wars that isn't fully awesome? Lightsabers, the force, Yoda, Jedi, Smugglers, Gangsters, Jawas (yeah, I said it), love, hate, conflict; the list goes on. Let's just say I can't narrow it down to one movie, and yes I do like the prequel trilogy too so this is just one big clump.
2. Back to the Future Trilogy
I promise this isn't a whole list of trilogies, there's only a few. Back to the Future definitely comes from my childhood. I play guitar because Marty McFly is awesome and Johnny B. Goode is so much fun to watch and play. The concept is awesome, the casting is perfect, and even Back to the Future 3 was cool.
3. Ninja Turtles Trilogy (plus TMNT even!)
Ok last one I promise. Again, the ninja turtles movies are from my childhood. The creators must have been smoking something to come up with the idea of teenage-sized, walking, talking, ninjitsu trained turtles; but it's awesome! If I had to pick one movie it would be a fight between I and II, but probably II; III was still good, and the new TMNT movie that was CGI was also full of awesome ninja turtle action!
4. Goonies
Who doesn't love the Goonies? You either love this movie, or you've never seen it. Goonies was a good old 80's movie about a bunch of kids who go on a treasure hunt. First off, how awesome is that? What kid didn't go on a 'treasure hunt'? Well these kids went on a real one, and it's a great adventure that never gets old.
5. The Mask
Jim Carrey is possibly my favorite comedic actor. The Mask was in his prime years (Dumb and Dumber was up there, also think of Ace Ventura) and is by far my favorite movie of his. It was the perfect combination of the average joe with superpowers that many could relate to. And he even got the girl at the end.
6. School of Rock
Jack Black is also up there in comedic roles. School of Rock is a pretty unique movie, where the kids are the musician stars. I also like this movie because Jack Black was taught how to play his guitar parts by the kid, Zack, as he would probably have to teach me too; that kid is amazing. Actually all the kids are amazing at what they do; that's what makes it a such good movie.
7. Stardust
Now this might surprise some, but this movie is awesome. I originally thought it was a chick flick, and while there is the theme of love, this is one of the best adventure movies I've ever seen. A boy becomes a man, and one of my favorite themes is that he learns that love is more than just looks and feelings, it's about living an adventure together.
8. Kung-Fu Panda
Now this one probably didn't surprise anyone. Why I like this movie: Jack Black, Pandas (favorite animal), kung-fu, awesomeness, great animation, great story, awesome point! The whole movie is about being yourself and not trying to be something you can't. You can't reach your full potential until you just be yourself. It's hilarious, it's a kid's movie, and adults can love it too.
9. The Little Mermaid
I'm not ashamed to admit that this is my favorite Disney movie; it always has been and it always will be. This movie came out when I was 4, I'm old, and I've loved it ever since. I can't really pinpoint why: the music, the story, the character-lovability factor; it's just all so good. Can't get sick of singing "Under the Sea" or "Part Of Your World" possibly the best soundtrack.
10. Without A Paddle
While I love comedy, if a movie can cause emotion within the viewer it's a winner. I'm fairly unemotional when it comes to movies; I mean it's people acting, it's not real. But when there is a really good point to a movie tied with an adventure (see Goonies and Stardust) it can get to me. While this movie is without a doubt a comedy, the sense of adventure and doing something totally stupid with your friends stirs in me. I love adventures, and I love adventure movies that can give me the sense that I'm along for the ride too.
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