Friday, November 23, 2007

Hyundai vs. Classic muscle car makers

Hyundai reportedly is gearing up to challenge Ford's Mustang, Chevy's Camaro and the Dodge Challenger. The photo (through the link) makes the Hyundai Genesis appear to be something out of my son's HOT WHEELS collection. Still, it's a valiant ffort because it pushes the other car manufacturers to keep the competition flowing.

I don't know how "green" these models are, but they've got it over today's remodified Ford Taurus that's been around for 20 years. The PT Cruiser had some spunk in its look - a retro mindset. Here's an idea for Detroit and all others: I say use today's technology with yesterday's panache but tomorrow's green requirements. And make it affordable. Some would say the magic vehicle is already here.

I don't mean...a bicycle.

Thursday, November 22, 2007

Happy Thanksgiving

I began revamping my web site today [dougsmith.info], which if you have the choice of turkey, football or...well, of course you'll check out my recordings!!!

Anyway, Happy Thanksgiving. Next year's Thanksgiving will have a special Pilgrim section for all readers...

Go Packers!

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Paula Cole at Rubin Museum of Art in NYC; Utah in Dec.

I don't know if Grammy winner Paula Cole is winding down her latest tour, but if you can, catch her either in Park City, Utah (Dec.15) or NYC (Nov. 30). While all the cowboys have seem to left the building, Cole's voice is as good as ever. Her latest effort, COURAGE, is more contemplative, if not introspective. It's the first album from her in 8 years. To me, the 39-year-old Cole's opus THIS FIRE is one of my all-time favorites.

The new album's most accessible tracks are "14", "Comin' Down" and the moody "Until I met You," a duet with Blue Nile alum Paul Buchanan.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Poised for a mega break-out role: actor Edoardo Ballerini

I was watching the NFL this past Sunday and saw a new promo for Fox TV's upcoming new series “TERMINATOR: The Sarah Connor Chronicles.” The series takes off where T-2 finished.

When you watch the new series in January, look for a character named “Wisher.” Actor Edoardo Ballerini, who did four episodes on “The Sopranos” and was in the Jet Li movie “Romeo Must Die” has the acting chops. He even directed a short film about screen silent legend Rudolph Valentino, and may eventually become a full-length movie. Mark this: the American-Italian, whose work includes a strong mix of TV and film work, is ready for a huge break-out role.

More on Ballerini as we hear about things.

In the meantime, check out Edoardo's work on his DEMOS part on his web site. http://www.edoardoballerini.com. While you're at it, his sensibilities on modern life can be heard through his audio blog/podcast, which can be downloaded off iTunes.

TV show: http://www.takebackthefuture.com/