Tiger Balm (Book Review)

Publication Date: May 2010

Tiger: The Real Story by Steve Helling B-

There's not much here that the casual golf fan doesn't already know. Yet, I found parts of Tiger: The Real Story very captivating. The book is fairly tame, and I question how much of it is the "real story". Nevertheless, it's light summer reading that makes me want to dust off the clubs and play.  

The Art of Suffering (Book Review)

The Death of Ivan Illych by Leo Tolstoy D+

Original Publication Date: 1886

This story holds a lot of meaning; however, it's a tough read despite a few flashes of brilliance. Tolstoy has a way of drawing me into the darkness (which I like), but this one was a very slow starter.

The Darkness & The Light (Music Reviews)

First Impression Music Reviews

Xiu Xiu - Always B

Released March 2012

Tennis - Young & Old B+ 

I like Xiu Xiu, and I like their music.  But with each album comes an abrasiveness that always takes a little getting use too ("I Luv Abortion").  Nevertheless, the songs eventually win me over and I can't wait until the next release.  Xiu Xiu is one of the most interesting and intriguing acts in music.  Always is one of their more accessible albums, featuring a few songs that could be radio hits if they ever saw the light of day.   Favorite Tracks - Hi, Smear the Queen, Honey-Suckle, The Oldness      

February 2012

Young and Old came as a bit of a surprise.  I happen to hear it streaming for free around the time of its release, it caught me ear and never let go.  This is one of my favorite albums of 2012 so far.  It's sugar sweet pop that's infectious, dreamy and groovy- a near perfect summer soundtrack.  Favorite Tracks - It All Feels the Same, Petition, Vegas (Bonus Track)