Recent Sighting

An authentic Gallardo Superleggera..

Weekend Video's (#15)

Paul Simon - 'You Can Call Me All' (1986)



Rush - 'Nobody's Hero' (1993)


Dave Matthews Band - 'Grey Street' (2001)

Second Thoughts

I've got to admit that as of late, I've been having second thoughts my attraction to Megan Fox. For the longest of time, Megan was one of my top five celebrity babes, but that has all changed. After watching a recent interview she did with Jimmy Kimmel, I came away with the impression that she's quite hardcore. In fact, perhaps a little bit of a bitch..

Furthermore, many of the recent event photos which I've seen have left me feeling 'cold'. The style and use of make-up she uses, let alone the amount - is just overkill.

While were at it, allow me to comment on her dress' which I believe are sluttly and overly tacky.



Turned off

I'm sure she cares what I think.. :P

Surprisingly Mature - Jojo

I've got to be honest, I think Jojo is just smoking hot. I am fully aware that she is just sixteen and clearly too young for me, but I cannot mask my feelings. I know a good looking girl when I see one ;-)

Anyways!

For those unaware of who Jojo is, I'll give it you in the brief: she's an American R&B/Pop artist. Furthermore, her stage name (Jojo) is an abbreviation of her full name (Joanna Levesque).

Anyhow, I recently went onto YouTube looking for an interview with her (as I wanted to she how she presented herself) and I found one particular interview she did for 'Freshly UK'.

I am pleasantly surprised at how well she presents herself, especially for her age. She most certainly does not have traces of that awful "spoiled brat- complete idiot" disease which Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton seem to be carrying like the plague, and one that often wears off onto newer (and particularly younger) artists. She appears to be confident, nice, modest and not the least bit cocky (in my humble opinion). I respect her quite a bit for that.

"Design Priorities"

Read my latest article on AutoSavant.net

http://www.autosavant.net/2007/06/design-priorities.html

Chris Benoit's Death

As wrestling fans will already be aware - legendary Canadian wrestler Chris Benoit and his family were found dead in Atlanta Georgia in what they are calling a murder-suicide.

I've never mentioned it on my Blog before, but truth be told - I used to be a huge wrestling fan. I stopped watching it about five years ago, but the recent news of Mr. Benoit strikes a small pin within my heart. I know what he did to his family (assuming he did in fact kill them..) was horrendous and cowardly, but I'll still miss him.

There were always a handful of wrestlers which I thought were ultra cool and as I'm sure you've already guessed, Benoit was one of them. Ironically, another favourite wrestler of mine, Eddie Guerrero - passed away last year.

Without a doubt, he was one of the most entertaining guys in the professional wrestling industry.

1967-2007

Awesome Concert Photographs

'Breasts?'

I have come to the realization that I am incapable of saying the words, ti... Damn it.

Hell, It would appear that I am not only incapable saying the words, but even writing them. My friends (both Internet & real life), will know that I rarely utter the words "tits" (shrug!), or anything of similar nature.

Why?

I dunno. I just can't! It's a word which is so unlike my character. Furthermore, isn't 'tits' a goofy word? That being said, I choose to stick to the rather old fashion terminology of 'breasts'.

Now I realize the above comments might make me sound like a snob who thinks he's better than others.. Of course, those who truly know me will know that I'm in no way a snob!

Just speaking my mind..

What do people think?

Girls often comment on how polite I am when I use 'breasts' rather than 'tits'. That's a compliment, right?

My father thinks the whole thing absolutely hiliarious. Can't blame him.

This has got to be the strangest blog post I've ever written..

Disposable World

Is there an awful trend among today's clothing and assorted apparel which fools folks into buying substandard garbage for ridiculous amounts of money? Yes, I most certainly think there is.

Obviously, such is not only restricted to the world of fashion, but to most everything else us gullible customers are willing to purchase. Whether that be clothing or an automobile, It makes no difference - but for the sake of this post, I will only focus on clothing. Oh goody! This will allow me to get in touch with my 'inner fashion sense'..

Although, I must admit to having an interest in fashion lately..
*Moving on*

Anyhow, I remember the good old days when one bought a shirt (for instance), and it was actually good. Not 'looked' good (i.e. pretended to be), but actually was.

But, now that we live in a 'disposable' world, most everyone will accept when a $200 shirt is only good for three months. Pardon me, but a shirt of that value (any value actually) should not have a life span of only three months. A $200 shirt should most certainly have a life span breaching at least a year long.

If you haven't got an idea as to what I'm talking about, you've been living under a rock for the last ten years :P .. I'm talking about shirts which start to unstitch within a bloody week!

Hell, I remember when a $40 shirt would last a couple of years. In fact, I've still shirts and jackets made five+ years ago which look completely new and guess what? They aren't falling apart. Meanwhile, most everything I've bought in the last couple of years is rubbish.

Please note, this has nothing to do with me mishandling my clothing. I don't even use a dryer to dry my shirts or pants. Why you ask? Because in my experience, dryers do nothing but further reduce the life span of clothing, as well as fade the colours out. That being said, Imagine if I were to put some of my newer clothing through a dryer.. They'll probably be shot in two days.

My experience also indicates that whether it's expensive or cheap makes little difference.

Don't worry, I've saved my best example for last. That particular example being a pair of sandals I bought about five months ago.

Naturally, I bought a pair which I liked with no intentions of buying another pair anytime soon. After the first month or so (and despite the constant caressing), the rear buckle-strap stitching started to strip apart. In fact, this happened to both the left and right sandal and to further prove my point, my father bought a pair and the exact same thing happened. Considering this particular pair of sandals wasn't cheap to purchase in the first place, I had assumed some longevity - but as per usual it was nothing but smoke in mirrors.

As a result, I then took them to a shoe tailor who restitched the rear strap with heavier and thicker stitching. This particular event was brought on by the fact that the company who made them, decided to use stitching reminiscent to a strand of hay in an area which demanded the thickest of stitching.

That particular pair of sandals finally hit the coffin a couple of weeks ago when an entirely different section of the sandal (the side stitching which attachs the stitch to the rubber base) decided to completely fall apart. Such damage was unrepairable..

I've now got a new pair of sandals (completely different make, etc). They appear to be pretty strong - or at least stronger than my previous pair, but nonetheless I can already seen where the sticthing is stripping away in certain areas. Furthermore, they need more padding through the heels.

I'll let you know when they decide to fall apart, or in other words: ready for the garbage bin.

At this rate, it should be in a few months.

"Ocean's Thirteen"

Just got back from this marvellous (yeaahh...) trilogy ending finale.

Did I think it was any good? Uhh, no, not really. It was surely better than the second film, but rubbish compared to the first film. The story was overwrought (as most everything else), the script was poorly written and the cinematography rather terrible.

Verdict: Weak
6.5/10

"Recommended Auto Magazines"

My lastest article on AutoSavant.net

>> http://www.autosavant.net/2007/06/recommended-auto-magazines.html

Weekend Video's (#14)

Bryan Adams - 'Cuts Like A Knife' (live - unknown year)



R.E.M - 'Losing My Religion' (1991)



U2 - 'With or Without You' (live in 1988)

Beautiful

Who said that celebrities can only look good with makeup lacquered on? Here are some recent candid photos of the lovely Sophia Bush and here, she looks even better than she usually does. Not because she's wearing more makeup than usual, but rather, less.

That is truly saying something - especially as she always looks amazing.

Flat Nose Article

Interested in the Porsche 930 Turbo SE Flat Nose?

Read my lastest article on AutoSavant.net

http://www.autosavant.net/2007/06/exclusive-porsche-flat-nose.html

Say It Isn't So!

The Sport Auto is in my hands!

Last night I was talking with my father and as per usual, we got onto a long discussion about automobiles. Such a discussion eventually led to him telling me that he saw an issue of Sport Auto magazine in a small Chinese convenience store which he had visited earlier in the day.

When he first told me of that, my head almost blew off my shoulders (with excitement, of course). Although I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little skeptical when he first told me, especially as Sport Auto is not known to be sold in North America.

Now, If you're unfamiliar with Sport Auto, I'll try to give it to you in brief explanation - it's a sports car enthusiast magazine which originates from Germany. As a result, all of the text and whatnot is written in German, although it is sold in other countries where it's text is translated. What makes Sport Auto such an amazing magazine is that each month they conduct something which they call a 'Supertest'. This 'Supertest' puts an individual car through a series of endurance events including two different racing circuits (one of which is the famous Nurburgring), as well as other such tests like slalom courses, evasive manoeuvres, etc.

It's hard to explain, but what you should know is that it's no 'normal' performance test. It's arguably the most enduring and amazing (performance) test on our earth. (dramatic!)

Anyways, I started to ask him if he was absolutely sure, but he then started to doubt himself. With that in mind, he went back to the store earlier today and made 100% confirmation. He was right, it was a real Sport Auto magazine and according to the store owner they get them every month.

What was also nice is that he decided to buy the magazine for me.

Here it is..

Recommended Movies

On the recent subject of excellent movies, here are ten that I love.

V For Vendetta:
Here's an anti-Hollywood production if I may say so myself. A little dash of poetry here and there, combined with anarchy and narcissism, can only make it a winner.

Pan's Labyrinth:
Symbolic meanings intelligently carried out through the description of fairy-like world and a on-going war. How cool is that?!

Three Kings:
Here's a movie which sheds a little more light on the Gulf War and how a few soldier's dream to steal Kuwaiti bullion, leads to an adventure which they did not count on.

Falling Down:
One man's struggle and final break-down as he tromps across Los Angeles to reach his daughter and with that, cutting down everything (and everyone) in his path.

The Constant Gardener:

The politics of a pharmaceutical company and a ever-dying Africa

Donnie Darko:

What is real and what is not? A captivating movie forcing the theory of time travel and worm holes.

Fight Club:
A casual encounter with a stranger leads to the development of a 'fight club' and with that, eventually leading to acts of anarchy and terrorism.

Shawshank Redemption:
Wrongful accusation leads to inappropriate Jail time. With the dream of hope, one man decides his life will not be further wasted.

Stay:
A series of events which will have you're brain truly twisting, until the mind blowing conclusion.

Pulp Fiction:

It's quirky humour, memorable characters and off-beat story make it quite unlike anything else.

'Donnie Darko'

For the longest of time I had heard of a movie by the name of 'Donnie Darko', and how brilliant it apparently was. Anyhow, I finally got a chance to watch the movie a couple of nights ago and those who said it was brilliant were incorrect.

It's not brilliant, it's just absolutely-amazingly-brilliant-fantastic worldly awesome. Sorry for the muddy sentence..

You know, there are good movies and then are good movies. A good movie, for instance, would be 'Rudy' or the 'Usual Suspects', but Donnie Darko belongs in a category above 'good'. For myself, such is evident on how much of an impact the movie makes on me and as obvious, Donnie Darko made a huge impact on me. This movie is perfection and easily sits amongst my absolute favourites.

Bass World

"boing, boing, bbbbbbbooo, boing!"

So how was that for an imitation of a bass guitar? Oh alright, so it was terrible.

Anyhow, I wanted to make a post about how much I love bass guitars and the wicked sound they produce. It's such a fantastic instrument, but to be honest, I think it gets neglected (for most part anyways).

Some time ago, it had dawned upon me one of the main reasons I love Rush so much was because of the way they implemented bass guitar in their music. I listen to a large variety of music and quite simply, only two or three of the bands I listen to, focus on the use of bass guitar and as far as I can see, the instrument is usually faded out and sadly, left battling it out with the drums.

Honestly, this is where Rush is above many others. It's not the playing ability per se (although Geddy Lee is an amazing player!), but it's how the songs are structured. Much of Rush's music is bass driven, yet at the same time they've managed not to neglect the other instruments. The guitars (bass and electric), as well as the drums and percussion have all been individually noted out. The majority of their music is written like this and that's what makes them so bloody entertaining to listen to. It's not often you can follow an individual instrument through the entirety of a song.

Now, allow me to go through a little history of Geddy Lee's bass guitars:

Notably, Ged started off with a Fender Jazz and continued to use them from their first album ('Rush', which came in 1974) up to 1982's 'Signals'. However when 'Grace Under Pressure' arrived in '84, The Gedster started alternating between three different units: his Fender Jazz, a Rickenbacker '4001' and lastly, a Steinberger 'L2'. Various reports indicated Rush fans were unhappy with the addition of the Steinberger - which portrayed a sound very much different to his classical Fender Jazz, but now a days, it seems that fans have grown to appreciate the change.

A prime example of a mid 80's Steinberger 'L2'

Rickenbacker '4001'

The band's experience with British record producer Peter Collins in the late 80's (who has now produced a total of four Rush records), introduced Geddy to British born 'Wal' bass guitars. By the time Geddy was using Wal units (in '87), their music had reached the peak in terms of bass line complexity. Albums such as 'Power Windows' and 'Hold Your Fire', boast not only some of the more sophisticated bass lines in Rush's own music catalog, but in music anywhere.

Tidbit: Geddy used a 5-string (!) Wal bass for the song 'Lock & Key'

Above, Geddy showing off his then newly aquired Wal bass

As for a direct comparsion between the Wal and the Steinberger? Well I'm not going into a debate about which is better. (because frankly I don't know enough about bass guitars to support such an arguement), but I've got to say that I prefer the sound of the Wal.

It's got a quirky pop to it. Hear for yourself:



However as good as the Wal and the Steinberger's sounded, Geddy dropped both by the time their 1993 album ('Counterparts') arrived. Geddy states the reason he dropped the Steinberger was because he did not like it's sound, meanwhile he says the reason the Wal was dropped was because of it's tone. Not because he disliked it, but rather because he wanted a bass which would complement the harder-rock sound of 'Counterparts' (and the poppy sound of the Wal was not proper for the album). As a result, he then went back to the sole use of his Fender Jazz unit and that eventually led to the creation of this:

Signature series "Geddy Lee Fender Jazz Bass®"

The above bass is an artist special which you can pick up for around $1,500 (USD). As for the guitar it's self, it's made to mimick one of the earliest bass guitars Geddy used.

One thing that I cannot understand is why people constantly complain about him using the Fender Jazz.. "is doesn't sound as good as.."

Are you people insane? Listen to that Fender..



Also worth watching, Geddy's solo in between 'Driven' (from the 'Rio DVD')

For their recent album ('Snakes & Arrows'), Geddy has introduced a new member to the family and it's a 'Fender Jaco Fretless Bass'. Sadly, it only makes an appearance on 'Malignant Narcissism'. (see below video)

The tone is.... infectious!





Above - 'Fender Jaco Pastorius Fretless'

So yeah...Bass guitar FTW.

Of course, such brilliant use of the bass guitar has known to exist in other musical artists. Like for example, Frozen Ghost and their song, 'Should I See'. Below, Wolf Hassel on the bass plays with a wicked tone.



While were at it, be sure to check out:

Frozen Ghost - 'Pauper In Paradise'

Everyone can use the instrument, but only a few make it an individual character.

'Misconception' Article

Read my lastest article about what I believe to be a misconception concerning today's supercars.

AutoSavant.net

> http://www.autosavant.net/2007/06/misconception.html

Weekend Video's (#13)

Rush - 'The Big Money' (1985)



A-Ha - 'Take On Me' (1985)



Big Country - 'Wonderland'(1984)

Sweetness

OMG.. I should be there!

'A Passage to Bangkok'

Artistic Work

Having just watched the utterly brilliant 'Pollock', staring Ed Harris & Marcia Gay Harden, I have come to the conclusion that it truly is a fantastic film and better yet, gives an accurate look into the famous American painter's life.

Isn't it funny how some of the most brilliant people, are some of the most tormented (Stephen Hawking, Leonardo Da Vinci, Van Gogh and of course, Jackson Pollock)? It's really quite an interesting thing - here's a guy who was a brilliant artist, but was never satisfied with anything he did in his life. He was a perfectionist, but also an alcoholic.

Anyhow, on the subject of art and artists, I wanted to take some time to display some artwork from my personal favourite artist, Ed Mell.

'Shear Point Cliffs'

'Storm Runoff'

'Scattered Rain, Grand Canyon'

'Ochre Ramparts'

'Canyon Cactus Bloom'

'Canyon Rain Columns'

You learn more of Ed Mell by clicking here

Rush Concert?

People who saw the concert last night said it wasnt just awesome, but amazing. Even better than R30 apparently!

Neil had a new drum solo, the stage set up was completely new with chicken rotisserie machines replacing the classic dryers and lastly, that setlist was 100% true (except for the 'unidentified' song, which didn't exist).

Here's a video (with medicore quality sadly) from the concert shot last night. Being performed is 'Far Cry'.

Tonight is the Night!

Tonight is the night when Rush's 'Snakes & Arrows' tour kicks off!

It looks as if the entire (almost!) set list has been leaked. You can read the story of how the individual heard these particular songs and whatnot here. Now yet again, this list is not official, but I haven't any doubts considering another individual heard such songs being played in a past rehearsal (which I previously commented on)

The list is as follows:

Limelight
Digital Man
Entre Nous
Mission
Freewill
The Main Monkey Business
The Larger Bowl
Secret Touch
Circumstances
Between The Wheels
Dreamline
(unidentified song... there was a long silence after Dreamline so we went to find a restoom and refreshments, upon leaving the gas station we could hear SOMETHING, but couldnt make it out before it was over)

INTERMISSION

Far Cry
Workin' Them Angels
Armor and Sword
Spindrift
The Way The Wind Blows
Subdivisions
Natural Science
Witch Hunt
MalNar
Drum Solo
Hope
Summertime Blues (ugh!)
The Spirit of Radio
Tom Sawyer

ENCORE

One Little Victory
A Passage to Bangkok
YYZ

This is without a doubt the best set list in the last twenty five years. What is here is truly an unbelievable bunch of songs with only a three being played which I'm not fond of ('Summertimes Blues, 'FreeWill', 'Circumstances').

Other than that, I wanted to see at least one song from 'Power Windows'. Perhaps the "unidentified" song is from that album? One can only hope.

Disappointing in those regards (for myself anyways), but the fact that classics like 'Witch Hunt', 'Entre Nous', 'Mission' and 'Digital Man' make it on the list more than make up for it!

Invicta S1 Article

My recent article on AutoSavant.net

>> http://www.autosavant.net/2007/06/searching-for-alternative.html

The Brilliant Peter Gabriel

I've had always been a fan of Peter Gabriel and such as hits like 'Solsbury Hill', 'In Your Eyes' and 'Sledgehammer', but honestly didn't have much knowledge of his music beyond that.

Anyhow, I eventually decided to buy a "greatest hits" two-disc CD package of his and I'm amazed at how much I've missed out on. Truthfully, Gabriel's music is just amazing.

The bass lines are superb - the drumming top notch - the lyrical structure and vocal performance are to the highest of quality. I already have a handful of favourite tunes too (IE: Digging in the Dirt; Rhythm of the Heat; Blood of Eden, etc).

However, my enthusiasm for Peter Gabriel was made even stronger when three weeks ago I decided to buy his concert DVD recorded in 1994, by the title of 'The Secret World'. Naturally I had assumed it to be a normal concert, but truth be told it's far more than that. As it was produced by Gabriel himself (who has a knack for creating insane music video's) and co-produced with a French Canadian movie director it not only comes off as a movie - but as a real piece of artistic work, not some contrived bullshit.

Here are a few video examples from the concert:

'Digging in the Dirt'



'Shaking The Tree'



Even though I've watched this DVD four times since original purchase, I still find myself never disappointed with the dance choreography which takes place.

Furthermore, the way in which the symbolic meanings are carried out are quite spectacular. 'The Secret World' (and much of Peter Garbriel's music) very much focus on the differences between females and males - or the lack thereof. Essentially implying we are all from the same 'little egg' and much of the stage dancing, actions and set displays emphasize on such.

The entire DVD is just bloody amazing, further proving my point about Peter Gabriel's brilliance. Not only is his music amazing and his mind creative, but he's a true artist. This virtue of creativity appears - no, is - lacking from modern day artists. Peter Gabriel is a true artist, in all sense of the word.

He's one who doesn't lower his standards to make substandard garbage. He's an artist which doesn't strive to make a quick buck - he makes music because it's his passion and he loves it.

With that, I leave you with what is arguably the best performance on the entire DVD:

'In Your Eyes'

Bruce's Favourite Cars (pt. 3/3)

The follow up and conclusion.

====================

1995 Acura Legend LS Coupe:

Why?

Automotive enthusiasts will immediately note that the Acura Legend is the only FWD vehicle within the fifteen I have chosen. All in all, quite an amazing vehicle for it's time and one that still excites me to this day. Although It should be noted, it's on my list for more than just boasting an attractive design. I have much experience with the Legend and enjoyed every minute of it.

=================

1999 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG:

Why?

I can't tell you how many times I've told this story, but here it goes again: My father test drove the exact C43 AMG which was used in the film 'Romeo Must Die'. At the time, that particular C43 AMG was a serious purchase consideration for my father, but in the end he bought a '98 Lexus GS400. Anyhow, I honestly didn't have much appreciation for the C43 AMG at the time (as I wasn't a Mercedes fan), but now a days I simply love everything about this car. What could be cooler than a 302bhp V8 shoved in a simple and attractive design? A design with little to give away the true potential of the vehicle - AKA, "a sleeper".

=================

2006 Wiesmann MF4 GT:

Why?

When I first learned of the MF4 (last year), I was quite simply blown away by it. Not only because it boasted an attractive design, a unique interior and an excellent BMW engine, but because of the numerous reviews praising it for it's usability (and the first thing that came to my mind was the Honda NSX). Furthermore it's produced by a company which honestly believes in values, integrity and craftsmanship.

=================

2000 BMW E39 M5:

Why?

What about the new M5 you ask? Pfft.. I don't care how good the E60 M5 is, the E39 M5 is simply unmatchable in my eyes. I can't even express how much love I had for this vehicle during it's time of production, but to say the least, it was my favourite saloon for the longest of time.

============

2002 Lamborghini Murciélago:

Why?

Before the Porsche Carrera GT was released, and before I knew of the Pagani Zonda's existence, there was the Murciélago. Never had I been so excited about a newly released vehicle and I still have the Road & Track magazine that I bought in '02, which happened to feature the Murciélago's very first performance test in North America. I must have read that article nearly everyday for two weeks and after that, I proceeded to stare at the photos for another two weeks...

Other greats which missed out: '01 Audi S8, '01 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG, Ascari KZ1, '05 TVR Sagaris, '98 Lexus GS400, '04 Porsche 996 GT2

So there you have it, those are my fifteen favourite vehicles of all time and you know what? All of these vehicles share on thing in common - I didn't have to learn to like them, they were all love at first sight.

Absolute Garbage

American Idol, Marketing, Bullshit

What the hell is going on? I just read that Katherine McPhee (the American Idol girl) is going to be offered a role in a movie? Am I the only one that sees something wrong with that?

You see, this is exactly what is wrong with today's generation and especially, that trashy operation which they call American Idol.

As I said in a previous post, American Idol is one of the most intelligent money making operations of all time. Most people think it's about displaying talent, but folks, it's not. The way it works is you, the public, vote for you're 'Idol' and then in turn, the producers of the show can give record contracts to artists which they know will sell. Hell, they even caught on by giving contracts to the other finalists which lost the bloody competition!

If five million people vote for one person, you can be damn sure they'll always have guaranteed album sales. Why have people not caught onto this?

And now, we are giving movie contracts to people who shouldn't be in movies. Why? Well for starters, because they can't act.

"Oh yeah! My favourite 'Idol', Katherine McPhee is in --INSERT SHITTY MOVIE--. We should go and see that".

It's all so perfectly planned out. By adding such people in movies they can instantly increase viewership and that's exactly what they did with Jennifer Hudson and Kelly Clarkson.

While were at it, let's give Jennifer Hudson an Oscar..Oops, they already did that.

Also worthy of rant:

Meanwhile, while were on the subject of marketing schemes, anyone else see the correlation between cell phones and their advertisements with 'cute' little frogs and hippo's on them?

The best place to display these adverts is clearly where they advertise them: movie theatres. It works especially well within the running credits of a film like 'Shrek', where children see these 'cute' animals and must have something they do not need simply because the furry monkey was in the advert.

What a bunch of bullshit..

Partial Set List?

I was just looking over on rushisaband (A Rush dedicated fan site) and somebody has apparently heard the following songs being played in their entirety during rehearsals for the upcoming 'Snakes & Arrows' tour.

'Circumstances' (not a favourite, but no complaints)

'Entre Nous' (Sweet mother of God..Awesome)

'Witch Hunt' (One of my absolute favourite tunes! Awesome X2)

'A Passage To Bangkok' (I'm a little worried how Ged's vocals will stand up here..but I still can't wait!)

'Freewill' (Same thoughts as 'Circumstances')

'Natural Science' (As it's one of the best Rush tunes ever, how could anyone complain?!)

'Digital Man' (OMFG..Probably my all time favourite Rush tune!)

'Subdivisions' (always a pleasure to hear)

'Between the Wheels' (Yet another one of Rush's best tunes and while it was already played at 'R30', I've certainly got not complaints - Bring it on!)

'Mission' (Fkc yeah!)

Yearly classics like 'YYZ', 'Tom Sawyer' & 'The Spirit Of Radio' are also featured on the list.

The official set list will arrive on June 13th, so as of right now this list is 'un-official', but let me tell you, If there's any validity to this list I'll be heaven!!

While I won't be attending any shows this tour, I'll still mighty excited - especially with upcoming bootlegs and not to mention, the possibility of another concert DVD.

Only four more days to find out whether this list has any truth to it..

Weekend Video's (#12)

Frozen Ghost - 'End of the Line' (1987)



Yes - 'Owner of A Lonely Heart' (1983)



Coldplay - 'Amsterdam' (2002)

Bruce's Favourite Cars (pt. 2/3)

1998 Lexus SC400:

Why?

The Lexus SC400 is one of those vehicles which is very special to my heart as my father bought a 1994 model, back in '97. I cannot even display my real appreciation for Lexus' luxury coupe, but to say the least - it was an amazing car, far ahead of it's time.

==================

2000 BMW Z8:

Why?

Often is my BMW enthusiasm dismissed as I truly don't admire any of the current models, but truth be told, I used to be a huge BMW fan. In fact, BMW not only used to be my favourite German manufacturer, but my favourite European manufacturer. With the release of the current generation BMW's I lost interest in the company, but don't be deceived, my appreciation for the Z8 is still very strong to this day. While considered a failure by most - in my mind it remains as the best modern-day BMW built.

=====================

2005 Porsche Carrera GT:

Why?

The Carrera GT is one of those vehicles which truly was 'love at first sight'. I loved it from day one and when I got a chance to see one in the flesh (at a car show), I completely ignored every other car at the show and spent a total of an hour and a half staring at it (not all at once of course - split over a day). I could not get enough of it and as a result I went back to the car show the next day.

====================

1995 BMW 850CSi:

Why?

Truthfully, the 8-series BMW was never one of the best cars ever built. Especially when it came to reliability, where it was surely worse than terrible. Still though, that doesn't damp my enthusiasm for this vehicle at all.

====================

1995 Lexus LS400:

Why?

While I'll openly admit the '94 model was slightly better as an overall vehicle (and one that my father happened to own), I have greater affection for the 1995 because of its slightly reworked styling. Not only is a classic among Japanese vehicles, but it's a classic among the automotive world. Few vehicles have overall engineering (build quality, reliability, transmission smoothness, sound isolation, etc) like it!

Part three (and the final one) arriving on Monday!

Bruce's Favourite Cars (pt. 1/3)

Being an automotive enthusiast and feeling that I have been somewhat neglecting automotive content through out my blog as of late, I thought this would be an interesting time to assemble a list of my favourite vehicles of all time - in this case I've come up with a list of fifteen. I am a very picky individual, so please note to make it on such a list, the particular vehicle in question truly has to be close to my heart. The vehicles which have made my short list are all very important to me. Not only because I like them and I view them to be perfection (for the what they are), but because they also note a specific era in my life.

This is only part one, but you can expect part two on Friday and part three on the following Monday.

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2005 Pagani Zonda F:

Why?

Reasons stated here

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2000 Honda S2000:

Why?

Shouldn't the reasons be obvious with my previous post about Port Orchard? I love everything about the first generation S2000 with a passion. The timeless styling, the well thought out and well styled interior, the brilliant chassis dynamics and of course, the awesome four cylinder engine.

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1997 Honda (Acura) NSX:

Why?

Did you get a chance to read through my article written on Autosavant.net about the NSX? If not, check here:

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1996 Porsche 993 Turbo:


Why?

You know, no one (even myself) can deny the fact that with each evolution release of the 911 it has become a better car. Honestly, a direct comparison of the 993 generation Turbo versus a current generation 997, leaves the 993 looking a little like a dinosaur. I couldn't care though, because in my eyes the 993 was the last real 911. Not to implicate later generations of not being "real" 911's, but the 993 has an individual character which quite simply, later versions cannot match. Those specific character traits being things such as a tank-proof exterior body metal with tight fitting joints and whatnot, an awkward and overly upright driving position and lastly, the raspy and exciting sound of a water-cooled boxer six cylinder.

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1997 Lotus Esprit V8 Turbo:


Why?

The forgotten British supercar gets short listed because as far as I recall, it was my first major obsession with a car and one that remained for a long time. Even today, I find myself captivated by the exterior styling, the interior, the engine and the vehicle's general philosophy.

Part two coming on Friday!

Peart's Assembled "Snakes & Arrows" Kit

Christmas has arrived early this year!

Here is Neil Peart's newly assembled "Snakes & Arrows" drum kit with his drum tech, Lorne Wheaton, at the helm.




Good looking kit, but I don't think anything will top the "SS Professor" (below). With gold plating, a black paint job with red lining and various album related symbols, it's quite simply too awesome for my face.

Recent Photography

Here are some photographs which I recently took.

The Washington Culture

It's been over three and a half years since I last lived (and even visited) Washington State, but let me tell you, there isn't a day that goes by when I don't miss it. Moving there for the first time was quite a profound experience and one that I'll never forget.

When me and my father first arrived in the small town of Port Orchard I remember feeling alienated. I absolutely hated it and the first thoughts that went through my head were: "what a slum".

You know that Joni Mitchell song displaying the lyrics "you don't know what you've got till it's gone?" That is indeed true. I soon learned to have appreciation for the place and am disappointed and slightly embarrassed by my previous actions/thoughts.

The fact that Port Orchard was so small was easily the biggest change for me. When I left Calgary, it boasted a population of nearly one million people, meanwhile Port Orchard had just a tad under eight thousand residents. Ironically though, despite the small amount of residences, five million people were right across the water (Seattle).

Honestly, it was like a completely different world over there. Admittedly it took me a while to appreciate the way things "went" - such as being treated like a child - you know, that small town mentality? If you haven't lived in both worlds, you probably won't know what I'm talking about, but it's always a result of a smaller population. I recall this one time myself and my father where in a Office Depot and there was one of those automatic "customer service" computers made purposely for the customer to tell how good the store operations were. While my father was off photocopying something, I went to the computer thingy and pressed a few buttons. Shortly after a women employee came over and started in on a lecture about not fooling with those things. I remember telling my father and he thought the whole thing was ridiculous. In fact, we never went back to the store because of that. Hard to explain, but all you need to know is that half of the people in Saskatchewan are like this.. Similar events of such nature and attitude were indeed frequent.

Oddly enough, it's those little moments which I remember. What I also remember are these two small Chinese restaurants which we used to frequent. They were so odd and I distinctly remember that one of the two restaurants had a family who was deeply religious and liked cars. We always used to read their car magazines while waiting for the food to come up.

Sounds like a small town, eh? Indeed, but the funny thing was that it wasn't. Yes, the population density named it a "town", but it had everything you could want. An: Office Depot; Home Depot; garden centres; automobile shops; car dealers; Wal-Mart; Fred Meyers (like Superstore); various restaurants and even a movie theatre (it was cheap too!)

Furthermore, it was clean and for the most part, up to date. I suppose this was because it was in between Seattle and another city with a population of around sixteen thousand, Silverdale. And if we had the desire to visit Silverdale, it didn't take a great deal of time to get there (about thirty minutes which was not bad at all). Great place it was.

Although I should mention what made those trips to Silverdale particularly memorable was the fact that this is where my father bought a Honda S2000. The example featured a Silvestone Metallic paint job, a black leather interior, with the addition of the optional body kit and the 6 disc trunk CD changer.

Man oh man we had some great times in that little car and we even had a "special route" to put the car through. The majority of this trip followed along the water's edges and eventually led to exciting, minimal traffic back roads. Top down the whole way and the best part was the trip was in town and very close to home. God, I loved that S2000. I remember my dad acting like a sports car driver (trite, I know), but that car could certainly take the corners fast. Not to mention I remember within the back roads where the tree canopy's completed covered the sky,tThe sound of the engine bouncing off those trees at nine thousand rpm's is truly unforgettable.

Many trips were done in that S2000, even one to California where we got up to 130mph.

Once back from an exciting S2000 trip (from anywhere), I had an nice home to come back to. Actually, it was kind of strange. It was a big, big house - but quite ugly. I remember my father saying: "ugly house", I laughed and said "yep".

Anyhow the reason it was bought was mostly because of it's size, but also because it backed onto the back of a Government protected wetland/park. Very hard to explain, but essentially beyond the backyard fence was a forest.

Speaking of which, the overall land scape and scenery in Port Orchard was very enjoyable. The shore lines were a little beat up, but still quite beautiful, meanwhile trees were a plenty and to cap it off, the weather was just amazing.

I miss it all. You know, I can't recall much of what happened in the last two years, but these years in Port Orchard are embedded in my memory as clear as a photograph.

It's all gone, but must I never look back? Truthfully the occasional item sparks my memories, like for instance, The English Beat (it was there where I first heard them). When ever I listen to them It's like looking through a picture book of my memories, some which invoke a smile, some which invoke tears.

I hope there's a day when I can not only revisit the place, but live there once again.

Honda NSX Article

Often dismissed, yet little is known of its history and impact on the automotive world - myself on the Honda NSX.

You can view my latest article written for Autosavant.net here