Plowing through another work day? Yeah, me too; and it sucks. Thank god for holiday parties tonight, (Flavorpill, Big Hassle and On The Pull all in one evening). Tonight might be better spent at home decompressing, but I'm not that smart. My body is still reeling after last night's Loose Record Holiday Party, (read: Jay and Yaps drink tequila until Jay blacks out. I may or may not have made it to the Bowery, but the drinking bracelet on my wrist this morning points to the former). Thanks to our friends for coming out to the intimate gathering at Bside; I had a ton of fun. Now to help keep you stimulated, here is a Top Five list from the man pictured to the right. Yes, it's Joe from Dirty On Purpose and though he is very handsome - this kid isn't all good looks. Joe is smarter than the average bear and though he refuses to give a decent reach around - he has great taste.

Top Five records of 2005 by Joe of Dirty On Purpose (in no particular order)

Stars :: Set Yourself on Fire

This record is more beautiful than any mustache I have ever grown. The female vocals on this record will make you remember why you started liking girls in the first place: because they can rip your heart out and sound like an angel, all at the same time.

High on Fire :: Blessed Black Wings

It may appear as though I only like things with the word "fire" in them. After listening to this record, you may also feel this way. This one is one of the most perfect records to skateboard to that I have heard in a long time. And no flip tricks either, screw that. I am talking 40 miles an hour at two in the morning doing slappies the whole way home.

Say Hi To Your Mom :: Ferocious Mopes

Eric doing what Eric does: Writing and recording really good songs.

The Hold Steady :: Separation Sunday

I drink - a lot; way more than I should. I'd like to drink with these guys. We used to practice downstairs from them, and they were so F'in loud, that we'd end up just playing along with them until they were done.

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah :: Self Titled

This record made my list not only because it sounds so good, but the way they knocked everyone on their asses the way they did with no help from a label just impresses the hell out of me.

Honorable Mention: A Place to Bury Strangers :: As Yet Untitled (due on Tee Pee)

If these assholes will ever get this record done, it is going to blow everyone's mind. I think they are on the Ackerman Ten Year Recording Plan.

********************

You Knew This Was Coming...

On a joyous note, I'd like to announce the engagement of Josh and Chris. They've been together for years, but Chris finally got Josh to throw in the towel last weekend. While they were on holiday in Vermont, Josh purposed to Chris who gladly accepted. When reached for comment Josh said, "Well, he earned. Chris is a beautiful man and wonderful lover. He stood by me during the hard times and partied with me at the high points. Speaking of high points - I'd like to thank ecstasy - without that drug we may never have gotten into that shower together." Chris called me first thing the next morning to gush about their engagement, "Josh finally did the right thing. I have waited a long time for this day to finally come. Despite his parents complete disapproval of our partnership, I'm happy to say we are going forward with our marriage. Josh has become his own man no matter what his underpants say. Oh, and by the way, they say Chris." Way to go guys - I'm really happy for you. This is a picture of the happy couple in the studio making their debut record as a two piece. The working titles are 1 +1 = Us, The Better Halves and Always On Top.