Frank Chow: Asian- American Political Pundit

After a day like today I enjoy listening to the somber and the oft times dark. Bazan is a master of both. This song doesn't relate to my current situation what so ever, however it has a place in my time line. It is reflective of the weather out, the time change and the oncoming winter in Chicago. I'm exhausted, the only thing keeping me up right now is a bottle of gin and awaiting my lady's arrival. I'll listen to this entire series till she gets home then promptly rendezvous with my pillow. I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

I haven't found much new music that I am "in" to at the moment. So I have been doing somewhat of a case study (pun intended). During a recent adventure to the outer limits of Hillsdale I popped in an old Park cd. I was immediately taken back to long drives down I-95, lost loves and way too many hangovers. Park for a specific moment in my life was the default soundtrack. Years ago while they were on tour they hit up a smaller joint in the heart of Baltimore. I was lucky enough to arrive early. The place had the normal aesthetic; old punk posters, grunge walls and the smell of smoke. I noticed Ladd (the lead singer) at the bar and offered him a drink. To my surprise he was more than willing to hang out. We talked our favorite bands at the time, his Pinback , mine the Decemberists and chatted the pains of working with a record label. I also prodded him for lyrical context (Who's Emily?). We threw back shots of Jager intermittently with our brews of choice. All of this ...

A new track is available for listening on Circa Survive's site . It is called " Imaginary Enemy ." I am one who believes Circa Survive has yet to live up to their hype. I have seen them live, purchased their releases and generally would say I have kept up to date with their happenings, all in all you could say I am fan. However, I still feel like they are missing something. I don't see what sets them apart from a million different bands. My only loyalty to them is my feigned nostalgia when I hear Anthony Green yelp. It reminds me of the potential I heard in his previous band Saosin . After a couple of listens to "Imaginary Enemy" I feel as if Anthony Green's solo endeavors have helped Circa Survive craft better melodies in their songwriting. I have only heard two tracks off their yet to be released album, but if this is a sign of things to come I might give them a more attentive ear. I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

fun . I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

I know weird, right? This song has some sentimental value as it was one of my fraternity day staples. I don't know what it is, but something about the staccato riffs Satriani executes throughout the song that brings a smile to my face. As a guitar player, although limited in my skill set, I can appreciate the talent and virtuosity Satriani displays. The music is dated, but dude can play. Idea: Joe Satriani should be consulted for the musical score to the Green Lantern movie. I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Alkaline Trio - "This Addiction" Alkaline Trio | MySpace Music Videos I recently had a discussion with Paddy K about Alkaline Trio's upcoming release. We were discussing how Alkaline Trio was one of THE band's we listened to in high school. Now that we have aged so has Alkaline Trio, but what remains is there constant songwriting style. For better or worse is up for debate. I am one who never expected Alkaline Trio to be more than what they already were, a definitive pop punk band. They existed before shit bands ruined the genre and turned it into teeny bopper cry fests (see All Time Low, Good Charlotte and a ton of other copies with neon clothes and glue spiked hair) without substance or heart. Alkaline Trio have always had a knack for writing catchy tunes with sing along choruses filled in with simplistic leads. And that is why I love them. They fit a certain niche in my catalog. With their latest release "This Addiction" I am becoming concerned. Not bec...

Around 2:36 you get some ragin vocal screams. Been rockin this song for the past two days. Light blogging today, lots to design. Chow!

You can stream their latest album on Myspace ...for now I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

This was originally a song by Hot Water Music , Ragan's previous band. Stripped down it goes to another level. Lyrics . I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

I know there are some albums I have not been able to get acquire that have made many a list, but these are my top picks for 2009. It is what I have grown to love, sing a long to in the car or just rock the eff out to over this past year and to be honest 2009 had some great music. I can only hope 2010 is this solid. Frank's Top Ten of 2009 1. Chuck Ragan- Gold Country Chuck Ragan is the man, what else can I say? Ragan on "Gold Country" defines a new era of folk; not quite as timid as the Nebraska brand, more punk influence and gritty as the man's beard. It is the type of album that you put in your car or at home, kick back a few beers with your friends and reminisce. Highlight Track- Glory 2. Tegan & Sara- Sainthood These two can't do much wrong in my mind and I don't care what flack I get for it. I think everyone and every critic has written about them what can be written. Clever pop. Amazing hooks. Tell all lyrics. Highlight Track- Someday 3. Brand New- D...

Little Xmas Cheer! I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

One of Paste's Top Albums of 2009 I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Probably one of my favorite songs and a nice twist to it. Have a great weekend, gonna go find a bottle and Jesus (wink) I am Frank Chow and I approved this message