the cosmic dead

This GLASGOW based band has delivered an album of sprawling, 10 minute plus kraut rock and space jams which are perfect for a trip into the mind.

MUSIC /// Bazile

Bazile is an Austin-based musical project that--as his website says--"could be considered the second cousin of Sufjan Stevens and Radiohead". He recently released a debut album entitled The Soujorn of Professor Narducci.

In fact, you can stream the album here.

In case the album title wasn't enough of a clue, I am here to tell you that this album is a concept album. But do not worry if you're an anti-concept album kind of person. The "concept" part of the album doesn't spoil by being obnoxiously omnipresent like some concept albums.

Bazile takes the listener on sabbatical with Italian Professor Narducci as he lusts after wisdom and woman (how Italian!). The journey has an eclectic and worldly feel to it. My personal favorite part of the journey was "Modern World". It reveals all of Bazile's capabilities in one cohesive song. At twelve song, the album is a bit long for a debut album, but enjoyable from beginning to end.

Academia misses you, Narducci!

_GP

a brief history of time /// for real

Just picked up a hard cover, first edition copy of this timeless book at my local library sale for a $1. Hot damn.

While some of what is in this book may be bunk if string theory proves true or if the Large Hadron Collider throws everything for a loop, it is still one of the most important science books in history. Dr. Hawking is an incredibly brilliant mind who managed to write a user friendly guide to the cosmos. You may have to reread a few paragraphs, but this will enlighten anyone who gives it a shot.

Dr. Hawking is a freaking rock star.

-JW