First stop: 245. It began in apartment 1. Joe and I watched TiVo'd Seinfeld episodes, napped on the couch and drank lemonade. Then I made my way upstairs to apartment 20 changed out of my work gear and waited for Maggie to arrive.

Next stop: Old Devil Moon. This place is adorable. Why don't I frequent here more often? The food, the lighting, the beer, the atmosphere...It's like a little rabbit hole that you climb into and POP, you're in Texas. There was a cute little band in the corner strmmin' on their guitars and ukulele. A few minutes into it a little old lady walked in and started tap dancing some beats (read: Tilly and the Wall in 30 years). Again, simply perfect.

Next stop: 2A. Good old 2A. I love it here too. Pre-show drinks, it couldn't be in a better location. Blue always greets me so pleasantly at the door while Donovan secures me prime real estate at the bar and hooks my broke-ass up with a couple free cocktails.

Next stop: The Delancey. We arrived around 11:30 just in time to catch The Diggs's set. Impressed I was. We grabbed some drinks, sat down, listened, whispered "I kind of like it", got up and moved to the front. At this point the place was pretty empty. When they finished I turned around and bam! Where did all of these people come from?

Ok, Ok, here I go. You've heard it all before. You've read it in every blog over and over and over. The moment that all of you who missed this show have not been waiting for. The part where I say: Ghostland Observatory. To be honest, bloggers, I didn't have any expectations. You write about stuff all of the time and sometimes I just don't like it. But this. THIS. So good. So sexy. So dance. I could have stayed forever. Before they went on there was a huge gap between the stage and the audience so Maggie and I, very politely, pushed everyone out of the way and stood front and center. It's sad to say, but this will probably never happen again. I mean, the white pants ghost was gyrating ever so gracefully a few inches from my face. I loved it. You, Ghostland Obervatory are my new favorite drug.

Next stop: 2A. Yes back to 2A. I don't remember much of this part. Zach from The Octagon was there putting stickers on my arm. Some overly-hyper girl really wanted to be my friend. Steven called (he always disappears from time to time). Everyone leaves. Me, Maggie, Blue, and Donovan hang around to shut down shop. Donovan loses his ring (I hope you find that). And out we went.

Next stop: Cab. I don't remember this.
Final stop: 245. 4:47am. Bed. 9:20am. Call my office. Tell them I'm sick. Sleep.

Perfect fucking evening.

Sincerely,
Your Web Mistress

I am not Jay. In fact, during his majesty's absence the remaining members of the loose team have agreed to step up to the plate in what may be a pathetic attempt in keeping you entertained. We are all scheduled to drink massive amounts of tequila on Tuesday (its on you...we know...), bounce like little bunny rabbits from venue to venue to venue to bar to venue filling you in on this weeks "cool", make out, puke, talk about our work week hangovers, update you on new and secret shows, and did I mention make out? After all, this is the Summer of Jay...

With that said, Saturday kicked off rather early beginning with a 1 o'clock Loose meeting. With a sad showing of three, we all agreed to expel Jay's formalities and begin the meeting on our walk to Dunkin' Doughnuts. About two hours after the meeting ended Serkan showed up and apologized for being late. We chatted briefly about the site before hitting the streets in search of the nearest Blockbuster. On our journey back to 245 we stopped into the bar on the corner for a mid-day margarita. The margarita led to shots, which led to gin and tonics, which led to picking up a six-pack before finally returning to the apartment. Lindsey was in and decided to join us for our beer drinking movie watching couch cuddling festivities.

Ten o'clock appears out of nowhere and Josh calls wondering where I am. I slip into the shower, suit up, and head out to the Mercury Lounge for the Dirty on Purpose Record Release Party.

First off, did anyone else see Mr. Oberst there? We got in just as End of the World was going on but I was too busy saying my hellos and hanging up posters to take notice to their set. When they ended, Serkan, Kaily and I headed over to Hanger Bar to get things ready for the after party. A few times I had to stop and ask myself WWJD (What Would Jay Do?) Where would Jay hang these things? Where would Jay find the tape to hang these things? Would Jay put Kyle in charge of the mixer?

All went smoothly and we arrived back to the Mercury Lounge with a few minutes to spare before the infamous DOP took stage. I'm not going to comment on the show because we have a review coming soon but what happened to the sound? The band ended around 1 and me and Rosie waited by the door stamping hands and directing everyone to the Hanger.

At this point I am feeling extremely tired. Drinking all day and waking up to responsibility can really wear you out. One step in the Hanger bar, one sip of my free Red Stripe, and one listen to Adam and Mike's awesome dance tracks had me bouncing and smiling as if it were just the beginning. And it was. The party was Awesome with a capital A. The free beer never ran dry (even though the place was packed and there was a line outside), the energy never died down, and I never stopped thinking, "If only Jay could see us now". There was a small tiff with an unknown drunken straggler (no blood was shed), people took off their clothes (Serkan claims to have seen boobs), and Hawkins was dancing around like a fairy in the mannequin's blonde wig (which i think he felt very comfortable in because he wore it home).

The Loose team finally packed it up and headed out around 4/4:30 leaving the bar full of people who didn't want to leave. I got into a cab and sighed drunkenly in relief...another loose success.

Sincerely,Your Web Mistress

My head is spinning, and this time it's not from drugs or alcohol. Yes, the tour is upon us. I wanted to write a blog post, but the idea of not coming into the office for two weeks has me giddy. Let's get this show on the road. A few quick notes before you hear from me somewhere in America:

1. Stevo is now 24. For the record he's not crippled, but he plays one in restaurants.
2. Pulled pork is the 2nd best creation by God. Take a guess at number one.
3. Don't buy Stevo a bullhorn. It's worse than gas on a fire.
4. Lucy loves the National. I didn't understand why.
5. See The National. You'll get it. I hear Alligator is awesome. If you are their PR rep then pass me a damn copy.
6. Adam is leaving soon. We'll miss Adam.
7. Mickey's Blue Room is actually quite rad. But I shouldn't dance on benches.
8. Drinks are super cheap when you pack zero dollars.
9. Matt is a savior for hooking me up with cab money.
10. I'm really lazy, but I love making out.

Ok, so if you have been in a hole then you don't know that Sam Champion is playing the Bowery Ballroom tonight, (June 17). You also missed that Dirty On Purpose is playing Mercury tomorrow, (June 18) with a Loose After Party to follow. Come to the show and get your hand stamped for free beer at Hanger Bar.

The other night I was working the door at the Bowery for Sloan when Beana and I discussed Bon Jovi in relation to road trip in my very near future. Yes, I'll be on the steel horse, but it won't be a tour bus. Really, this couldn't come at a better time as I'm in desperate need of getting away from my day job along with the need of revitalizing my love of New York. Don't get me wrong, I love this place, but every once and awhile you have to feel it in your gut. Typically this happened every other day with a kid like me, but lately it's not the same. Maybe the lifestyle is a bit hectic, but it won't change soon so a brief brake will be solid. The one thing I will miss is the ladies. Jesus-H-Christ (what does the "H" stand for) there a lot of pretty girls in this city, and while we bask in the "Summer of Jay / Gigs," I can't help raising my arms to praise _________ (insert favorite deity).

Anyway, that was your warning. Next week I'll be out on the road tour managing my good pals, Sam Champion. Come see them play, and keep me company while they parade around like rock stars, (ok, that's crash, they are quite humble). We'd love it if you stopped in. I don't know exactly how the site and blog will hold up in my absence, but thankfully the team is ready and willing to help out as much as possible. Be patient next week because we love you and we want you to keep on loving us. Relationships aren't fun if only one person is into it. Trust me; I know from experience, (way too much of it).

People in the NE: Check them out tonight (June 16) at TT the Bear's in Boston with Rogue Wave and Dirty On Purpose or tomorrow night at the Bowery Ballroom with Rogue Wave and Helio Sequence, (Tickets).

So in the past couple days I missed a couple of huge Bloc Party shows at Webster Hall. I've been locked away working in preparation for the tour. Some reports have come in that the band was ok, but the venue terrible, (I take great offense, but I do hate a hot club). In any event, this is what Hawk had to say in regards to last nights gig:

Oh, the Bloc Party show was the best show I've been to this year, (excluding that party we had at your house when I danced on the table). I've never seen more New Yorkers dance. And the bitches - WOW. The lights came on after their 2nd encore and everyone started filing out. We had skated to the front for the show. So, we were slow getting out, and were almost at the stairs when this polite bloke came on the mic and said "if you wanna hang around, they're gonna come back on." HOLY SHIT. They ripped into a new song and looked about as happy as the throbbing crowd that ran all the way from 3rd avenue to catch one last riff!
So last night I worked at home on the site until the last possible moment. Then around 10pm I slid over to the Mercury Lounge where I found Enrique and Del canoodling in the back of the club. There were a number of familiar faces in the club waiting to see the Merc debut of the much touted Youth Group. Though they were quite good in a dark yet catchy pop kind of way, I didn't manage to listen to most of their set because I was catching up with Tumbleweed, Sky and Meredith. Either way, I'd buy the record, but I'm hoping someone sends it to me. It's great to know they are getting a huge buzz without getting sucked up into the major label scene, (a la Bloc Party). They are signed to Anti which is an Epitaph imprint, (which I guess is getting to be like everyone else meaning a major disguised as an indie). Anyway, I recommend you check them out while they are in town.

Speaking of checking things out, thanks to everyone who sends me records for the review team. I was listening to the upcoming release from Oxford Collapse, (July 12, Kanine Records) last night while hammering away at web work. It caught my ear so much that I listened to it in its entirety three straight times. Again, I'm going to avoid going to much into this record (we have a review for it coming in the near future), but damn it blew my top off. I have their last EP which didn't knock my socks off, but the 12-track On Good Ground is fucking amazing. It's like listening to early Guided By Voices if the band would have grown up in the 80's punk of lower Manhattan. Support independent music by picking up a copy next month!

Sometimes live music isn't necessary for a kick ass weekend. This isn't a smart thing for me to say since I'm editing a website that revolves around the live music market, but this portion of the page is for me; so fuck all. There were no shows that truly enticed me so the decision was made to get rowdy without the rock. It began Friday night with a visit from Noah. He popped in to do some tour talk, (I can't believe Sam Champion is hitting the road in a couple weeks). Eventually Kyle, Noah and I hit the streets with margaritas on the brain. We ran into Jack, Jenny and Tory at El Sombrero. After some massive indecision as to where we would grub, the party of six hopped across the street and sat down at El Neuvo Amancer. My fajitas rocked some serious business, but my third margarita made me sleepy. Some of us returned to 186 where I promptly passed out.

With a possible 10pm Belin looming, I decided to put on the rally cap. It was still raining out, but I trekked up to Jack and Jenny's 7th Street apartment anyway, where a large crew had assembled. We did a couple hours of drinking before piling into cabs and heading over to APT where Mr. Bones was working his final shift as a bar back. It was my first trip to APT despite the numerous Flavorpill invites I've received over the years. Though it's not usually my style to pay more than $3 for a beer, I couldn't hate on APT especially since Pete (??) from Trick and the Heartstrings was kind enough to hook us up with a booth in the upstairs room where Tim Sweeney was spinning. We made our way to the basement for a couple cocktails with Sean before the swank surrounds began to intimidate. By 3am Christie, Dee, Kyle and I were headed to The Johnson's to finish up the night with some pool and cheap tequila.

Simply Killing It.

Saturday was such a blast. The day began with Del, Christie and I meeting for brunch at Angelina's. Jeremy the waiter is such a rad dude. I've come to the conclusion that there is no need for another brunch spot, (especially one where you have to wait to be seated). Following the meal Adam and I got some margaritas and stopped by American Apparel to flirt with the cute workers. Why do all female American Apparel workers have such a classic hot look? It is a hipster oasis, but you won't hear me complaining. We made our way to the Apple store to say hello to Mike and Rebecca. After returning to The Hat for another margarita we strolled up to Tompkins to sit in the grass with Hawkins, Dee, Kyle, Megan and Julia. It was glorious. Around 9:30pm Hawkins picked Adam and I up for a trip out to Supreme Trading Company where we were DJing a party for the man. The party started off a bit slow which meant Del and I passed the time by getting housed and doing sing-a-longs. We were in the front room of the venue while most people were either outside smoking or in the gallery riding the seesaw. By 12:30am our room began to fill up and by 1am it turned into Yo! MTV raps. We had so much fun killing it for all the party people who were dancing and singing along to our choice cuts. Sure, you can consider us human jukeboxes, but keeping the crowd engaged isn't always the easiest thing, (though we made it look that way). It's our prediction that everyone at that party did two things: 1. got drunk, 2. got laid. God bless the summer months.

The whole evening went really smooth until we had to pack up with security guards breathing down our neck for no good dickhead reason. It was a bit frustrating, but we got out there as quickly as possible. For any of you who saw the altercation between Hawkins and me, don't worry, we still love each other.

That's The Way We Get By.

Yesterday was fantastic. It began with me waking up way to early and meeting Hawkins in the park to lie in the grass, (yet again). Then I went over to Cami's, and we walked around in an effort to catch up. She's definitely one of those people I need to see more of. Around 3pm Sean Bones and the S.S. Killer Crew which included Hawk, Sarah, Jill and Mike, picked Del and I up in the Bones van for a trip out to Prospect Park where a group of kids were celebrating Merida's birthday. Despite my public disdain for all things Brooklyn, between you and me, Prospect Park is completely tits. It's a massive park that houses baseball fields, bbq pits and tons of beautiful women. We made our way to the second lawn where everyone was getting down with margaritas and giant submarine sandwiches. The day was spent tossing the football and baseball around while basking in the beautiful afternoon, (I have the tan lines to prove it).

Happy birthday Merida!

Hawk and I jumped an F train around 6pm. On our walk up Norfolk we ran into Eileen and Tumbleweed who were hustling over to Café Juanita for the tail end of happy hour. Naturally we decided to join them. This meal put the unnecessary cherry on a perfect Sunday. Like I said before; God bless the summer months.

After living in New York City for the past six-years, I still have trouble monitoring my money. There are weekends (like last weekend) where I blow through two weeks worth of money forcing me to come up with creative ways to find money (like this week). It's impossible to complain about the cost of living because the bottom line is I know the score. This is one of the most expensive cities in the world to call home. Another problem is the fact that a lot of kids already have money. They don't have to worry about making loan payments or rent. They have something to lean on. Thankfully, mom let's me lean on her every so often, but it's not for big purchases. Just last night she helped me pay for a stack of porn to send Trevor who can't seem to find any titty magazines in Iraq. Anyway, the point of this story is that sometimes I feel like the man in Pulp's "Common People." Though I'm a bit more fortunate then the character painted by Cocker's lyrical strokes, I can relate to him on many levels.

But like The Beatles; I get by with a little help from my friends.

So last night began with me putting together the aforementioned mailing for Trevor. It was funny walking into my regular magazine shop to get advice on raunchy porn and hip hop publications from Al. Then I took the gear over to my mailbox joint, and the old lady opened the bag despite my warning. When she pulled out the magazines a Club was on top with two (plastic) beauties ready for action. She said if he's overseas, he deserves it. Pretty funny commentary since it came from a lady who is definitely in her mid-to-late 60's. Once I was back home, a series of welcomed interruptions prevented me from getting the necessary work done. Katie stopped by for a quick hang before she had to hit work. Then Kyle came in talking about some record oasis on Rivington and Norfolk. We hustled down the street only to later find out the records were all shitty hip hop singles we'd never heard. Then Noah came in carrying the issue of Teen People that contains some Sam Champion action. Finally Builder showed up which meant it was time for us to take off.

Builder and I met Jin at Café Colonial for some amazing dinner and drinks. Have you ever had a frozen pear mojito? As your attorney, I highly advise you stopping by this establishment to check it out. It's an orgy for your mouth. We finished our coffee, bid farewell to Builder, ran into Glenn and hopped over to Groupe 16sur20 for a party celebrating the release of Made in Sheffield which is a documentary about (obviously) the music scene in the U.K. town, (featuring acts like Pulp and Human League). As we cruised back to the bar we were greeted by the likes of Juliet, Megan, Marc and some other kats. Hawkins met us back by the dj booth and we talked shop while slugging cold Red Stripe. Groupe is such a rad party spot. It's located on Elizabeth Street just south of Houston so it's really accessible. All the employees / owners are super cool, and even though someone like me can't really afford boutique prices, I can say they have some fit clothing. Have I mentioned they always have a classic car on display, (see picture). Just make sure you don't use it as a bar. They don't appreciate it.
Drunkenness crept up on me like a sister's birthday. I wasn't prepared, but I was kind of excited. Jin and I walked back over to the neighborhood and said our goodbyes. After a trip to the Hanger Bar in an effort to catch Natalka, I returned home unsuccessful and promptly passed out. A quick note: I'm certain many of you have seen this week's edition of the Village Voice, but what you many not know is that Kyle was quoted in the cover story. Check it out here.

Finally, don't forget to check out the Loose Events page for a killer party this Saturday.

I took last night off. It was probably my first evening off in three weeks, and it felt so necessary. My apologies to the emails that have fallen through the cracks; they will receive reply by E.O.D. Anyway, I spent my lavish evening rolling around on the futon drifting in and out of much needed naps. At one point I resurfaced to reality for an episode of Seinfeld in which George was disgruntled, (big surprise). The root of his anxiety was his current relationship with a woman who had nothing to talk about. More and more I'm coming to realize that I often share George's afflictions. No, I'm not in a relationship, but I do find myself attracted to people who make conversation as much as me. I'm a talker in the Vince Vaughn, “I'm not a talker”, kind of way. This plus a number of other incidents got me to thinking about all of my current relationships, (men and woman). What really matters? What is forced? What is zzzzzz… Before I knew it I passed out again only to wake up for five minutes of Law and Order. Despite this exercise, I'm still a bit tired this morning.

Words From The Street.

*** Jinners congratulates Danny and Sonya of The Big Sleep on their recent marriage. I had no idea they were even together, but I couldn't be happier for them. They hid it well. At least the few times I spoke to them. Keep on kicking ass.

*** One Louder posted a great review of last night’s Kraftwerk show at Hammerstein Ballroom. Waiting on Tumbleweed’s confirmation.

*** If you haven't heard, Longwave is set to release their new album There's A Fire on June 28th. I wonder if they collaborated with The Strokes on the record title. Anyway, listen to the first single here: [Real] [Windows Media] [MP3]. Catch them on tour this month, (June 25th in Chicago w/ Sam Champion).

*** One band that has completely destroyed my ability to listen to others lately is Doves. You should pick up their new record Some Cities, learn to love it and then jump into their back catalog. “Snowden” is the new single and you can check out the video here: [Windows Media] [Real] [Quicktime].

*** One final piece of Cornerstone news: The Futureheads are playing a free acoustic show on Monday, June 6th at Pianos. The show is sponsored by Swatch Paparazzi which means you can pick up tickets at all participating outlets. Don't forget to check them out in all their electric glory that same evening at Webster Hall.

Tonight's Suggestions:

Austin: Stereo Total @ The Parish
Chicago: The Hold Steady @ The Empty Bottle
Los Angeles: Out Hud @ Spaceland
New York: Bishop Allen w/ We are Scientists @ Galapagos
Portland: Kasabian @ Douglas Fir Lounge
San Francisco: Of Montreal @ Great American
Also in NYC: DJ Del @ Micky's Blue Room (see below)

Can you believe it's already June 1st? As some hippy once sang, time keeps on slipping. Anyway, it's a new month in the summer of Jay. The warm up month treated me kindly. We saw the launch of this web site and numerous crazy times. May is gone, and we must press on. What does June hold in the cards for my fellow monkeys and me? Well, by the end of the month my focus will shift from Academic Administration to Tour Manager for Sam Champion. This has always been an aspiration, and I'm psyched to get the chance to get my start with some friends. Luckily Noah is well versed in the art of tour managing so guidance will come in heaps. They are playing dates with Rogue Wave and Helio Sequence which should help the band play to new sets of ears. Also make sure you tune in to WOXY on June 24th for the Sam Champion studio session. Expect more details to follow, and rest assured I'll do my best to keep this blog updated.

This tour certainly won't help me catch up on some much needed sleep. The all star shitfest that was last weekend has completely wrecked me, but the need to keep the drive alive, forces me to dig deep. Last night, after spending some time editing, Stevo and I met for a bite to eat at the always reliable Café Juanita. Thanks to Will, we indulged in some dangerously strong margaritas. By 9pm I was back home putting the finishing touches on a few things before heading over to Mercury Lounge.

By 10:15pm I was cruising into the back of the club where Eric waited to take the stage for the Say Hi to Your Mom set. Last night was a celebration of the release of their third full-length, Ferocious Mopes (Euphobia Music). After sitting through the tail of the The Fatales set (think Interpol with less commanding stage presence and a gentler sound), Say Hi to Your Mom took the stage as a three piece with Eric leading the charge on guitar and vocals. Enrique, Daylen, Tumblehawk, Lucy and I settled into the back corner while Jin and Mr. Lordz took their asses up front. No matter where you stood, you couldn't escape the entrancing pop music composed by the hard working front man. Some of the new tracks depart from the fragile sound that's characterized some of my favorite older songs, but the heavy strumming and bow to your knees rock out were welcomed additions. Check out Say Hi to Your Mom in a city near you.

Never Say Goodbye.

Much to my dismay, Mr. Del just informed me that he plans to return the land of BBQ and the Bush family by the end of the month. That's right folks, he's heading back to Texas which is a severe bummer, but we can't dwell on that now. We must forge together in the name of good times and join him this Thursday, June 2nd at Micky's Blue Room, (171 Avenue C between 10th & 11th). Adam will rock out from 10pm until you head to work. Join us as we rock out to this boys impeccable taste for all things awesome.