Mon, 17 November 2008  Episode four of Drive, entitled No Turning Back, begins the second half of the six episode run of Tim Minear's fast-paced series. Alex Tully is awarded the Jump Start Challenge, but things turn sour when he's forced to bring the Salazar Brothers in on a bank robbery. Meanwhile, Lee and Susan are eliminated from the race, and Rob must report to the nearest Army base to stand trial for abandoning his duty to his country. Just as with all my commentaries for Drive, there is no preemptive countdown. Comments[2] | ||||
Wed, 12 November 2008  Dark comedies rarely get any darker than Heathers. Veronica Sawyer is fed up with the shallow, popular members of her highschool. With the help of her mysterious new boyfriend, the two of them begin killing their social betters and making it look like suicide. Unfortunately, this trend makes the recently deceased more popular than ever. Join me as I discuss school violence, teen suicide and the art of black comedy while revisiting this wickedly funny gem from the 80s'. It's so very. Remember to listen for my preemptive countdown before starting your DVD. Comments[0] | ||||
Tue, 28 October 2008  Couch Surfing Episode 13 - We Ain't Been ShavedGibson and Elliot record a podcast! Well, sort of. Episode thirteen of Couch Surfing supplies John with Chris O'Connor from Geek By Night, filling in as Scott's replacement. Thanks to John and YouTube, Chris discovers the modern vampire cult classic, Near Dark. Civil rights advocate and NRA spokesman, Charlton Heston has unfortunately passed away, but at least the world still has epic favorites like Ben-Hur and Planet Of The Apes to remember him by. Remakes of both Dune and Short Circuit are currently in the works, which leads to a discussion about how robots will eventually rise to power and crush us all. Lionsgate may soon give The Monster Squad the High Definition treatment, even though John is still hopeful for Night Of The Creeps to be released on DVD soon. Chris has a substantial theory concerning Versus Movies, but is distracted when he learns of Armageddon in The Criterion Collection. The episode concludes with a possible correlation between African-American Presidents and movies about world destruction. Keep those co-host requests coming, folks. The following artists can be heard in this episode: Don Felder, Bear McCreary, Tangerine Dream, Joe Kraemer, Brian Tyler, Brian Eno, Styx, MC Lars Horris, The Platters, The Diamonds, The Perishers, Blondie, The Martinis, Heavens, Sum 41, Slowdive and Kaiser Chiefs. Direct download: Couch_Surfing_Episode_13_-_We_Ain_t.mp3 Category: Couch Surfing -- posted at: 10:30 PM Comments[3] | ||||
Tue, 28 October 2008  Episode twelve of Couch Surfing brings you mostly bad news, unfortunately. First off, John and Scott are without new iTunes reviews or e-mail. Secondly, they both lost two and a half hours of their lives, thanks to Richard Kelly's Southland Tales. If that's not enough, the dreaded Knight Rider revamp has been picked up for a series. In lighter news, Scott finds Horton Hears A Who to be quite endearing, and he's oddly excited about the new X-Files movie. John rediscovers the rewarding value of patience after watching Wristcutters: A Love Story, but warns listeners to proceed with caution when considering the very well made, but dark and disturbing Gregg Araki film, Mysterious Skin (Correction: The book that inspired the movie was written by Scott Heim). Finally, the guys contemplate a world without Superman. Scott decides to take an indefinite break from Couch Surfing, to focus on his many other projects. This leaves John without a co-host. If anyone wishes to fill in as a temporary replacement, please send an e-mail. The following artists can be heard in this episode: Relient K, HIM, Bloodhound Gang, The Beatles, Spoon, Mark Snow, The Church, Moby Michael Andrews, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Leftfield, The Killers, Dollshead, Blur, I Monster, Sigur Ros, John Ottman, Red House Painters and ELO. Direct download: Couch_Surfing_Episode_12_-_X_Marks_T.mp3 Category: Couch Surfing -- posted at: 9:58 PM Comments[3] | ||||
Thu, 2 October 2008  Eric Diaz, from the video podcast Geekscape brings a unique perspective to the show this week. Lots of frank, dividing subject matter gets covered here in this overstuffed episode, so proceed with caution. Not suitable for children, unless you're really open and casual with your kids. Like, seriously.00:02:46 - Eric is singing the praises of Mad Men. It won some important Emmy awards, so that's gotta count for something, right? 00:09:12 - John desperately wants to check out the special features on the Spaced DVDs, even though he's already seen and enjoyed the show. 00:11:48 - John is experiencing a love/hate relationship with season one of Eli Stone. The conversation turns into talk of the Green Lantern movie. 00:18:47 - Breaking news, Tim Burton was a hired gun on his remake of Planet Of The Apes, which ruined the movie. 00:20:28 - John and Eric discuss fan boy-submitted, great movies lists. Popularity goes head to head with actual quality. 00:26:00 - Back to Eli Stone. Season two will be arriving soon, but John is almost certain the show had been canceled. Confusion ensues. 00:29:55 - John brings up Fringe. It's entertaining, but the problems are still there. This leads into some Joshua Jackson love. 00:42:36 - If a show taps an idea really well, should no one else be allowed to expand on it? This leads to talk about Bones. The show has jumped the shark, so John has dropped it. Again. 00:46:27 - There's talk of the season three premiere of Heroes. It's not pretty. Thankfully, Hiro manages to escape more or less unscathed. 00:56:36 - John gives his play by play on Heroes through his Twitter posts. 01:06:24 - John continues his thoughts on season one of Six Feet Under. 01:13:45 - Eric explains the difference between sexual behavior and sexual orientation, using the new Buffy comics and the television series as reference material. 01:24:48 - Chasing Amy comes up in a discussion of the validity bisexuality. 01:34:27 - Buffy gets blamed for the decrease in female membership in the Church Of England. We roll our eyes and scoff. 01:45:41 - Eric makes a bold prediction about the Buffy comics. John gasps, but considers it. 01:54:02 - Eric praises the writing on the Angel comics, but the art makes him cry. 02:01:30 - John closes out the show by lamenting how expensive weekly comics are. The following artists can be heard in this episode: C & C Music Factory, Etta James, Johnny Ace, Dan Mudford & Pete Woodhead, George Michael, Ladytron, Beck, Imogen Heap, Thomas Dolby, Moby, Pete Yorn, Crystal Method, Wendy & Lisa, Stars, Iio, Doves, Gym Class Heroes, Thomas Newman, Lamb, Stereophonics, Sarah Mclachlan, DJ Shadow, Massive Attack, Tricky, The Futureheads, Curve, Marvin Gaye, Overseer, Sinead O'Connor, BT, Joshua Radin and Dead Or Alive. Comments[4] | ||||
Sat, 27 September 2008  Paul Maki returns for commentary on the twentieth episode from Buffy the Vampire Slayer's second season, "Go Fish". The promising members of Sunnydale High's swim team are shedding their skins, literally! It's up to Buffy and her friends to find the connection between these bizarre deaths and a recent crop of scaly sea creatures roaming the halls. Naturally, it all has something to do with the fall of the Soviet Union.... Naturally.Please join Paul and I as we talk about Wentworth Miller, David Fury and the subtle message in this episode which warns us, "performance enhancing drugs are bad, m'kay?" Remember to listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the program on your DVD. Comments[2] | ||||
Wed, 17 September 2008  The season of Fall is upon us. Lisa Tobias returns again to the show. That can only mean one thing: It's time for the Couch Surfing podcast, baby! It feels good to be back in the swing of things.00:02:28 - Lisa is enjoying the updated version of 90210. John is indifferent. 00:05:35 - The Fringe pilot caused unintentional laughter from John, but Joshua Jackson is a bad-ass, so he's going to keep watching. 00:15:16 - True Blood was a bit of a letdown for Lisa, but she's still on board. John is reminded of Sundown, starring Bruce Campbell. 00:19:34 - John is finally watching Six Feet Under. So far, he's not impressed, finding much of Alan Ball's work cold and one-note. 00:27:52 - Free DVD rentals from the Library are exposing John to mediocre entertainment such as the Amityville Horror remake and Babel, but he strongly recommends the special edition of David Cronenberg's The Fly. 00:35:55 - Be sure to pick up the long overdue special releases of Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club and Weird Science this month! 00:38:12 - At the end of this month, keep an eye out for the tenth anniversary release of Can't Hardly Wait. Hopefully, we'll get to see more of Amber Benson in the film! 00:40:05 - While trying to catch up on Bones online, John has to deal with his first ever serious virus on his computer. A system recovery (F10) was performed. Everything is fine, now. 00:42:25 - Due to the computer virus, John had to read stuff (!). When all is said and done, he finishes the novelization of Can't Hardly Wait, but was left kind of bored with the Brian Michael Bendis graphic novel, Powers: Who Killed Retro Girl? (Answer: The Butler did it. Just kidding.) 00:45:36 - John is curious to check out the reboot of Geek By Night, and recommends listeners to do the same. He wonders how much of his input remains in the show, if any. 00:49:38 - A shout out to Geek By Night and Buffy Between The Lines alum, Rachel Ruzzo. 00:55:51 - We get our Neil Patrick Harris fix by watching Harold & Kumar: Escape From Guantanamo Bay. 01:02:11 - John & Lisa are hopeful they can take Tim Minear up on his offer to be on the show soon (call us, Tim! Let's do cyber lunch!). 01:03:04 - The show wraps with Lisa recounting her experience at Dragon Con. NOTE: Sorry we didn't have time to get to listeners' emails. We'll hit it next recording! The following artists can be heard in this episode: Three Dog Night, Weezer, Penguin Cafe Orchestra, Eberg, Rolling Stones, Sneaker Pimps, Tom McRae, John McEntire, Massive Internal Complications, Simple Minds, Depeche Mode, Thirteen Senses, Van Halen, Mickey Avalon, Elvis Costello, Badly Drawn Boy and Craig Wedren. Comments[2] | ||||
Thu, 4 September 2008  Lisa Tobias drops in for some Bicardi, pizza and The Guild. We chuckle and guffaw our way through the complete first season DVD of this hilarious and creative web-based series. The show is written by, produced by and stars Felicia Day as a sweet, plucky young violinist struggling with her addiction to online gaming and the other players she "socializes" with. The situation intensifies when one of her fellow gamers finds out where she lives and inserts himself into her life, with his overbearing mother trailing close behind.Lisa and I discuss babies in cages, stalkers and the monetary value of a person's awesomeness. As per usual, please listen for the preemptive countdown before selecting "Play All" on your DVD. "Commentaried." Comments[5] | ||||
Fri, 29 August 2008  Couch Surfing Episode 08 - The Whedon/Zombie Dance-OffIn episode eight of Couch Surfing, our heroes rejoice at the end of the Writer’s Strike. Scott gushes about the new ABC show, Eli Stone, but weeps about the latest FOX game show, The Moment of Truth. John finally finishes Veronica Mars, and Scott must talk him down off the ledge, over the unsatisfactory ‘ending’. They both praise the mind blowing bargains from Deep Discount. Scott finds the willpower not to punch a kitten after watching the BBC show, Primeval, while John shares a childhood story of his mad archery skills. The two of them finish up the show by lamenting Joss Whedon’s frustrating lack of follow-through, and laughing at the absurdity of Rob Zombie possibly directing Conan. The following artists can be heard in this episode: Leroy, Shakespeare’s Sister, Lords of Acid, George Michael, Fleetwood Mac, The Bravery, INXS, Bjork & PJ Harvey, The Delays, Guided By Voices, The Dandy Warhols, Primal Scream, Prince, Was Not Was, Hans Zimmer, AFI, Evanescence, Scissor Sisters, Nickelback, Staind, White Zombie and The Dollyrots. Comments[2] | ||||
Sat, 16 August 2008  "I Only Have Eyes For You" is the nineteenth episode from the second season of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Surrounding the day of the Sadie Hawkins Dance, a couple of ghosts from 1955 are possessing random folks at Sunnydale High, forcing them to play out a forgotten crime of passion, ending in murder and suicide. Things go from bad to worse when Buffy and Angelus become the next vessels for these tortured spirits.Crystal Smalling (Three Chicks & A Mic and the Squint Squad) joins the show as we take a closer look at this episode about role reversal, heartbreak and forgiveness. In this commentary, Crystal and I discuss snakes, poltergeists and the possibility of a few hidden, subtle fashion statements. Please listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. Comments[1] | ||||
Tue, 12 August 2008  According to Variety's online blog The Set List, Rounder Records will release a long overdue official score soundtrack for Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The album will contain 29 tracks from seasons 2 through 4, composed by Christophe Beck (Bring It On, Elektra, Confidence) and released on September 9th.Here is the track list: 1. Massacre (from “Becoming”) 2. Angel Waits (from “Passion”) 3. Remembering Jenny (from “Passion”) 4. Twice the Fool (from “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered”) 5. Moment of Happiness (from “Innocence”) 6. Loneliness of Six (from “Lover’s Walk”) 7. Sugar High (from “Band Candy”) 8. Tai Chi (from “Band Candy”) 9. Kralik’s House (from “Helpless”) 10. Magic Snow Music (from “Amends”) 11. Slayer’s Elegy (from “The Wish”) 12. Faith’s End (from “Graduation Day”) 13. Drink Me (from “Graduation Day”) 14. One Last Moment (from “Graduation Day”) 15. Haunted (from “Fear Itself”) 16. From the Grave (from “This Year’s Girl”) 17. Demon Got Your Tongue (from “Hush”) 18. Golf Claps (from “Hush”) 19. The Princess Screams (from “Hush”) 20. Spellbound (from “Who Are You?”) 21. Fyarl in the Morning (from “A New Man”) 22. A Really Big Sandbox (from “Restless”) 23. Spaghetti (from “Restless”) 24. Body Paint (from “Restless”) 25. Xander’s Nightmare (from “Restless”) 26. The Tower (from “The Gift”) 27. Losing Battle (from “The Gift”) 28. Apocalypse (from “The Gift”) 29. Sacrifice (alternate version, from “The Gift”) Personally, I'm mostly excited for the previously unavailable material from season 4 (especially "Restless"), as I already have the rest from Beck's original promotional discs. Hopefully, if this sells well, we may see a second volume some time in the future. I wouldn't say no to music from the remaining seasons, either (particularly Thomas Wanker's work on "Into The Woods" and "Smashed"). For anyone interested in making their own compilation, here's the track list from Christophe Beck's promotional discs for Buffy the Vampire Slayer. NOTE: The order of these tracks may seem odd at first, as they are not initially in chronological order. The reason for this is, if you listen to the music very carefully, you will realize that much of it is actually seamlessly mixed together, like one, very long suite: 1. Resurrection 2. Twice The Fool 3. Remembering Jenny 4. Ampata's Kiss 5. Devil Child 6. What's That Do? 7. Sledgehammer 8. Cursed 9. Angel Waits 10. Mob Rush 11. Accused 12. Escape 13. Moment Of Happiness 14. The Buffy Rat 15. Love Is Forever 16. Robot Rampage 17. Show Me Your World 18. Waking Willow 19. Massacre 20. Vision Of Jenny 21. As Angel Becomes 22. The Mark Of Eyghon* 23. Deliverance 24. Tai Chi 25. Sugar High 26. Loneliness Of Six 27. Bizarro Sunnydale 28. Blood Machine 29. Slayer's Elegy 30. Dublin, 1938 31. Dreaming Of... 32. Magic Snow Music 33. Betrayal 34. Kralik's House 35. A Father's Love 36. Alternate Willow 37. Into The Mayor's Lair 38. Dearly Beloved 39. The Beginning Of The End 40. Class Protector 41. Poison Arrow 42. Faith's End 43. Aftermath 44. Drink Me 45. Little Miss Muffet 46. War 47. One Last Look 48. Close Your Eyes** 49. Dead Guys With Bombs*** 50. Buffy & Riley's Love Theme**** 51. Suite From "Hush"***** 52. Suite From "Restless"***** 53. Sacrifice From "The Gift"***** *The end of this track starts to lead into a new, unknown piece of music. So, either a cue is missing from the promotional CD, or the track list I got from Blunt Instrument is inaccurate. Anyone who can clarify, please send email. **Available on Buffy the Vampire Slayer: The Album ***Available on Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Radio Sunnydale (UK Mix) ****I can't even remember where I got this from. I'm not entirely sure if it's from the composer, or if a talented fan did their own cover of this piece. It's difficult to tell, since Beck mostly uses synth instruments in his work as well. *****Available on Buffy the Vampire Slayer: "Once More, With Feeling" Category: News -- posted at: 12:56 AM Comments[0] | ||||
Mon, 4 August 2008  Eighteen episodes into Buffy the Vampire Slayer's second season brings us to, "Killed By Death". Buffy isn't feeling her Wheaties. The Scoobies take her to the hospital. While recovering from the flu, she learns the Children's Ward is being visited by a mysterious figure every night and killing kids who are too weak to fight back. Is it the Doctor and his questionable experiments? Is it the invisible, eye-popping monster with an underbite? Hard to say. I guess you'll just have to watch and find out. :)Please join Paul Maki and I as we discuss the high level of gullibility of Sunnydale residents, Day for Night shooting and the debate over whether or not Power Girl was created for the show, or if she's a preexisting superhero (Turns out, she is in fact a DC Comics Character. I knew it!). Remember to listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. Comments[1] | ||||
Thu, 31 July 2008  Paul Maki returns for the seventeenth episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer's second season, "Passion". Angelus is stalking Buffy, killing Willow's fish and leaving delightful, creep-o-gram drawings for the Slayer and her friends to find. Meanwhile, Jenny Calendar is working on a rare, forgotten spell to restore Angel's soul. Also, Joyce learns of her daughter's recent intimacy with an older man. Much older. Much, much older. In any case, relationships are tested, secrets are revealed and someone dies.Please join Paul and I as we talk about building sets versus shooting on location, practical effects versus CGI, strong casting and even vampire etiquette. NOTE: You may hear it on occasion, but I was enjoying a plate of angel hair pasta during this recording. :) Remember to listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. Comments[1] | ||||
Tue, 22 July 2008  Lisa and John discuss their two favorite and most anticipated entertainment experiences of the year. WARNING: This podcast contains spoilers for The Dark Knight. Discretion is advised.00:01:25 - John and Lisa give their thoughts on Joss Whedon's web series, Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog and they talk about what this could mean for the future of online entertainment. 00:18:50 - Lisa brings up the merits of novelists building an audience by providing their works online for free in the audio podcast format. She cites the superhero series, Playing For Keeps as being one example of success, similar in tone to Dr. Horrible. 00:24:22 - John and Lisa share their experience of seeing The Dark Knight on the big screen, with a packed crowd. 00:39:50 - Lisa expresses her disappointment in Maggie Gyllenhaal's performance, which leads back to a discussion about Katie Holmes playing the same role in Batman Begins. 00:46:11 - They both long for the days of ushers in movie theaters, which transfers over into talk about how common courtesy and etiquette are almost nonexistent these days. The ratings system and taking young children to inappropriate movies is also discussed. 01:07:55 - John mentions his optimism and curiosity with Terminator: Salvation, after having seen the Teaser. 01:16:50 - They're both amused by the Trailer for the new CGI film Bolt, especially a certain thrill seeking Hamster. "Let it begin!" 01:19:16 - There's a film about vampires coming out called Twilight. Not interested. We'll stick with Buffy & Angel, thank you very much. 01:21:53 - Ridley Scott made a movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe. It's called Body Of Lies. That's pretty much all the Trailer had to say. 01:25:52 - Apparently, the United States government doesn't like it when you talk smack about Ridley Scott's latest film, because they sent a very loud, intrusive helicopter after us. 01:26:47 - The show comes to a close with talk about the Teaser for Watchmen and the works of comic book author, Alan Moore. 01:33:50 - Promo for the Astral Audio Experience. The following artists can be heard in this episode: AC/DC, Neil Patrick Harris, Blur, Teddybears, Fonda, Splashdown, Danny Elfman, Hans Zimmer & James Newton Howard, Ladytron, Robert Miles, 8mm, Aqualung, Brad Fiedel, Monster Magnet, Aretha Franklin, Seal, Hughes Hall and The Smashing Pumpkins. Comments[1] | ||||
Tue, 24 June 2008 I recorded this Q & A session in Dallas, during the North Texas 2008 Can't Stop The Serenity screening. Enjoy: Category: News -- posted at: 12:49 PM Comments[0] | ||||
Tue, 24 June 2008  John is once again joined by the always delightful Lisa Tobias, from the Hypersensitive Podcast!00:01:19 - John and Lisa squee like nobody's business over how awesome Tim Minear is, and what it was like to meet him. 00:22:37 - John was able to identify strongly with The Incredible Hulk, while Lisa is enjoying the build up to The Avengers movie. 00:29:50 - Neither of them cared for 27 Dresses all that much. It was absurd and lame, with an occasional sprinkle of charm. 00:39:00 - After having only watched the first disc so far, Lisa is already madly in love with Wonderfalls. 00:43:17 - Lisa finally watches Enchanted, and agrees whole heartedly that Pip rules all. 00:44:10 - John brings the listeners up to date on the whole internet drama fiasco (now you have the option to skip it entirely, if you so choose). 01:10:34 - John asks for help from the listeners in tracking down episode 8 of Couch Surfing, "The Whedon/Zombie Dance-Off". 01:13:03 - Tim Minear brings the show to a close with an important message. The following artists can be heard in this episode: Mates Of State, Jay Gruska, David Newman, Gavin Rossdale, Andy Partridge, Syntax, The Rhones, The Crystal Method & Milla Jovovich, Gorillaz, Nada Surf, Bloc Party, Greyboy, Kim Richey, Splashdown, The Dandy Warhols, Junkie XL, Puracane, Lunatic Calm and Four Star Mary. Comments[12] | ||||
Sun, 22 June 2008  It was bound to happen sooner or later, but a woman has been recruited to bring some class and intelligence to Couch Surfing. John is joined by Lisa Tobias from the Hypersensitive Podcast. They discuss the well roundosity (it's a word, now) of Lost and its fourth season. The both of them show some love for Indiana Jones & The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull, and then John ruins everything by turning his nose up at Juno. Thankfully, Diablo Cody still comes out on top as generally awesome. Things go dark and depressing when The Mist rolls into the conversation, but childhood nostalgia brings the show back up, with talk of The Gate and Fraggle Rock. More Canadian mail gets answered, this time in regards to viral marketing. All the while, John searches for moral support from the audience. The following artists can be heard in this episode:Iggy Pop, Groove Armada, The Temptations, John Williams, Angels & Airwaves, Modest Mouse, Stars, Iron & Wine, The Moldy Peaches, Coldplay, Gary Numan, Dead Can Dance, Jon Brion, James Newton Howard, Michael Hoenig & J. Peter Robinson, Johnny Law, APM, Hooverphonic, The Fraggles, Arco, L7, Kathleen Edwards, Erasure and Boy In Static. Comments[0] | ||||
Sat, 21 June 2008  The eleventh episode of Couch Surfing, is over-stuffed with equal measures of both pain and pleasure. John loses a little piece of his soul, having watched Hostel Part 2. After a twenty minute rant about the works of Eli Roth, John and Scott go into joyous praise over Martian Child. They talk about the news of Bryan Singer having another go at Superman, which leads into a discussion about Kate Bosworth, followed by Scott getting a homework assignment. John suggests his casting of Chris Evans in Y: The Last Man. Scott expresses his love for the works of Amy Sherman-Palladino, but expresses mostly disgust with The Return Of Jezebel James and lead actress, Parker Posey. Thankfully, the two of them seem to be madly in love with Lauren Ambrose, so it balances out. Rob Thomas is bringing his show Cupid back to ABC, but he's also been hired by The CW to revamp the iconic, teen drama series, Beverly Hills 90210. Confusion and morbid curiosity ensues. Plus, answering e-mail from Wichita, Kansas. The following artists can be heard in this episode: The Dust Brothers, Say Hi To Your Mom, Ministry, John Carpenter, Sigur Ros, Guster, Arcade Fire, Coldplay, Aimee Mann, Stars, Christian Burns, Smashing Pumpkins, Mika, Elvis & JunkieXL, Dashboard Confessional, Shiny Toy Guns, Marvin Gaye, John E. Davis, Alison Krauss and Nada Surf. Direct download: Couch_Surfing_Episode_11_-_9021-Oh_W.mp3 Category: Couch Surfing -- posted at: 12:04 AM Comments[0] | ||||
Fri, 20 June 2008  We're not homophobic, we swear! In this episode of Couch Surfing, John discovers a surprising association with top shelf Vivid Girl, Tawny Roberts. The guys give their thoughts on the films Superbad and Definitely, Maybe. A lengthy, heated discussion follows concerning some new developments in the latest comic book issue of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. John stands his ground on the idea of turning down another man's affections, while Scott is suddenly feeling alienated by the otherwise favored show, Torchwood. They finally count themselves among the worthy in the podcast section of iTunes, and answer listener e-mail from Canada. The following artists can be heard in this episode:Yummy Bingham, Elvis Costello, Lyle Workman, MIA, Re-Flex, The House Of Love, Slowdive, Meat Beat Manifesto, Cocteau Twins, New Order, Lush, Nine Inch Nails, Timbaland, Plain White Tees, Death Cab For Cutie, Metallica, Boards Of Canada, Barenaked Ladies, Etta James and Bear McCreary. Direct download: Couch_Surfing_Episode_10_-_Gay_Pride.mp3 Category: Couch Surfing -- posted at: 11:36 PM Comments[0] | ||||
Fri, 20 June 2008  Episode nine of Couch Surfing finds John and Scott discussing the differences between comics and movies as viable mediums of storytelling. Scott talks smack about dormitory living and teenagers, ensuring our audience doesn't get too big. John reviews Justice League: The New Frontier, which he finds entertaining but feeling very truncated. This leads into a discussion about the live-action counterpart, which still seems to be moving forward. The two of them question the credibility of i09.com, after a contradictory article on the success of science fiction in movies and TV. They push for a new measurement system to replace the Nielsen Ratings, while praising the merits of watching TV online. The following artists can be heard in this episode:MGMT, Kaiser Chiefs, Coldplay, Tuatara, Eminem, The New Pornographers, Rod Stewart, Ash, Linkin Park, Devo, Elastica, Goldfrapp, Regina Spektor, Rilo Kiley, Stars, Cornrowz, Aerosmith, Vast, Danny Elfman and Republica. Direct download: Couch_Surfing_Episode_09_-_Kill_Your.mp3 Category: Couch Surfing -- posted at: 4:35 PM Comments[2] | ||||
Tue, 17 June 2008    The fifteenth episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer's second season is all about "Phases". I'm joined by Paul Maki, from Geek By Night. It seems that Sunnydale is in the cycle of the full moon. A werewolf takes this as an opportunity to go trolling for late night snacks. It's up to Buffy and her friends to stop the big, bad wolf from eating civilians, or worse yet, making more of its kind. And on a completely unrelated note (I covered that up pretty nicely), Willow and Oz are making moon eyes at each other.Join Paul and I as we talk about continuity errors, visible crew members, exposition and expensive globes. That's right, globes. Please listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. Comments[2] | ||||
Sat, 14 June 2008  Lisa Tobias returns to the show and this time, it's personal. The new series on the USA Network, In Plain Sight gets a recommendation. Meanwhile, John goes nuts over the adorable Amy Adams and her equally adorable Chipmunk friend from Enchanted. The two of them rather enjoyed The Air I Breathe, and they give praise to Sarah Michelle Gellar and Brendan Fraser for their standout performances. The dynamic duo of Tim Burton and Johnny Depp plan to bring Dark Shadows to the big screen, while John tries to be optimistic about a fourth Beverly Hills Cop film. Also, Shirley Manson is set to kick ass and look hot next to Summer Glau in the second season of the Terminator series. By the end of the show, a kind listener gives strong, moral support and John makes a big announcement about his future. The following artists can be heard in this episode: RJD2, Beastie Boys, The Chipmunks & The Chipettes, Coldplay, Mark Isham, Mat Kearney, Harold Faltermeyer, Smashing Pumpkins, Garbage, Feist, DJ Erb & Ludacris, AC/DC, The Posies, Radiohead, Ambulance LTD, William Shatner & Aimee Mann & Ben Folds and The New Radicals. Comments[33] | ||||
Wed, 14 May 2008  In the third episode of Titus, called Dave Moves Out, Christopher convinces Dave to leave the nest. Unfortunately, he tried to take his father's VCR. Ken is not too happy, and has Dave thrown in jail for grand theft. When it's revealed that Titus is behind Dave's sudden independence (and the theft of the VCR), their Dad makes Christopher join his brother as an accomplice.Can Erin bring Father and Sons together through love and reconciliation? Will Ken get his VCR back? Will Tommy ever back off? Most importantly, why has it taken me over a year and a half to record more Titus commentaries? Please join me as I attempt to answer all these questions and more. As per usual, please listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. Comments[0] | ||||
Thu, 17 April 2008   Spiffy! The fourteenth episode from the second season of Buffy the Vampire Slayer brings us to Innocence. In the conclusion to this two-parter, Angel has lost a soul, but gained some swagger. This does not bode well for Buffy, after having done some "stuff" with Angel the night before. Thanks to Jenny Calendar's Gypsy ancestors, and their inability to let things go, Angel's cursed. Buffy soon learns the hard way that you really do hurt the ones you "love". Can she bring herself to do what must be done? Is there a weapon forged that can destroy The Judge? Do you really not know the answers to these questions by now?Join Rachel Gatlin and I as we discuss inconsistent wardrobes, Gellar's heartbreaking performance, sexual milestones, an ever-expanding Sunnydale, a strange appreciation for matchbooks and the latest game to sweep the nation, Six Degrees Of Joss Whedon. NOTE: UrbanDictionary.com defines "Wiggins" as: The state of being uncomfortable or freaked out. I want to go home, this place gives me the wiggins. Just as before, please listen for the preemptive countdown before beginning the episode on your DVD.Comments[2] | ||||
Thu, 10 April 2008  Surprise is the thirteenth episode from Buffy the Vampire Slayer's second season. In this epic two-part event, Buffy's birthday has arrived, which basically seems to always coincide with lots of sex and lots of death. Go figure. Meanwhile, Spike and Dru are planning their own celebration, in honor of resurrecting the world's oldest and scariest Smurf (for now, but more on that later. Much, much later), more commonly known as The Judge.Rachel Gatlin and I discuss wheelchair-bound vampires, the rules of pranking on party guests and the smooth pimpness of Angel and Oz. We also talk briefly about the passing of veteran, character actor, Vincent Schiavelli. Like I said, lots of sex and lots of death. Halfway through season two, and the party is still going strong. As per usual, please listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. Comments[0] | ||||
Fri, 4 April 2008  Twelve episodes into season two of Buffy the Vampire Slayer brings us to Bad Eggs. The school is pairing off students to take part in an early form of parenting, by using eggs. Unfortunately, these particular eggs are mind-controlling, energy sucking parasites. In Sunnydale, apparently, even your breakfast is evil and out to get you. Rachel Gatlin and I discuss shopping mall etiquette, overbearing mothers, gigapets and the excessive amount of stuffed animals on Buffy's bed.Please listen for my preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. Comments[0] | ||||
Fri, 28 March 2008  The eleventh episode from Buffy's second season brings us to "Ted". Rachel Gatlin and I sit down to watch one of Joss Whedon's favorite episodes. In it, a new man is suddenly showing up in the Summers household. He rather quickly and easily wins the trust and affection of Joyce and the Scoobies, but Buffy herself is convinced something is rotten in Sunnydale. Who is this man named Ted, and what's the deal with all the crazy malarkey going on?Rachel and I discuss busy shirts, the surprising lack of an official soundtrack score album, the pros and cons of 16-millimeter film and the late, great John Ritter. He's a man known for expert, comic timing and genuine warmth and sincerity. Gone, but never forgotten. Just as before, please listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. NOTE: Rachel and I briefly mention Ritter's passing, unable to recall exactly when it happened. Apparently, we were both mistaken. John Ritter died on September 11th, 2003, barely a week before his 55th birthday. Comments[0] | ||||
Sat, 22 March 2008  Rachel Gatlin and I keep the party going with What's My Line?, Part Two. In the tenth episode of Buffy's second season, Kendra shows up. She's called to Sunnydale as a replacement Slayer, after that brief moment from Prophecy Girl when Buffy died, just a little. Rachel and I talk about lipstick on Men, vampires who breathe, Seth Green's ever-changing hair color from scene to scene and the apparent absence of a dress code at Sunnydale High. This just in: Giles secretly collects action figures.
As per usual, please listen for a preemptive countdown before beginning the episode on your DVD. Comments[0] | ||||
Sat, 22 March 2008  Finally: the ninth episode from season two of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, What's My Line? (Part 1). Joining me for this two-part event is Rachel Gatlin, from Geek By Night. It's Career Day at Sunnydale High, and Buffy is considering a job in law enforcement. Meanwhile, Spike and Drusilla send three assassins after the Slayer. Rachel and I discuss the difficulty of ice skating, the meaning behind whacky neckties, the importance of potassium, and bad Jamaican accents. All the while, the battle of the hair rages on: Buffy Summers vs. Rachel Green.As is generally the case with these commentaries, please listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. Comments[0] | ||||
Tue, 18 March 2008  Geek By Night is here!.... except that it's not. It's over there, at Geekshow.us. In case you don't know what the smeg I'm talking about, head on over to the site and check it out. Point is, I'm a writer, producer and actor for the show, supplying my voice as the main character! So what are you waiting for? An invitation? You've already got one. Go! Listen! Enjoy! Category: News -- posted at: 3:24 AM Comments[1] | ||||
Tue, 11 March 2008  DESMOND! PHYSICS!
DESMOND AND PHYSICS!Okay so I'm well over a week late...but honestly, who wouldn't want to spend a little time rehashing the best episode of the season so far (even sans mp3) ? In the intervening time we've also had a slightly less exciting episode, The Other Woman. Since I'm way overdue with both of these, and running short on time (so short this post has no accompanying images!), I'll abbreviate as much as pssble. Spoilers for Lost episodes 4x05 and 4x06 follow: Click here to open the review Related links: LostCasts Official Lost site Category: Lost Reviews -- posted at: 5:02 PM Comments[0] | ||||
Tue, 26 February 2008   Lost audio reviews: back for one week only!Despite my optimism, it'll be back to a text review for the next episode since I'll be out of town. In the meantime, here's 30 minutes of speculative (and somewhat hoarse) chatter on the specialist subject of "Eggtown - Parenthood and the Oceanic 6". Related links: Eggtown screencaps @ Lost-Media LostCasts Official Lost site Comments[2] | ||||
Sat, 23 February 2008  Well, it took me nearly two years, but I've finally done it. I have now recorded commentaries for every episode of Firefly. I finish out this long, memorable journey, fittingly enough with the final episode, Objects In Space. In the show, River melts away and becomes the ship, a bounty hunter sneaks on board and wrestles with his own sanity while holding Simon at gunpoint and Jayne sleeps through it all.Please join me for this one-man, pity party as I mourn the loss of such an amazing, innovative, funny slice of science fiction greatness in television. As is generally the case, please listen for my preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. The Firefly commentaries have stopped here, for now. He understands. He does not comprehend. Comments[3] | ||||
Wed, 20 February 2008  No podcast this
week (again) because I had a bit of a throat thing going on (again) over the weekend, and the review
is late because...well...I'm just writing it now.The Economist is this week's ep, and with a nice, obscure-sounding title I was bound to enjoy it. Factor in that it was Sayid's turn to take centre stage and it's high fives all round. The end of the writer's strike has thrown up the possibility of 5 more new episodes of Lost being produced this season, bringing the total to 13. Chances are there will be a long break before the new batch air though. Spoilers for Lost episode 4x03 follow: Click here to open the review Related links: The Economist screencaps @ Lost-Media LostCasts Official Lost site Category: Lost Reviews -- posted at: 5:43 PM Comments[0] | ||||
Thu, 14 February 2008 As of episode 8, John and Scott's Couch Surfing has now migrated across to Geekshow.us. Just as well really - I'm not sure our webspace could have coped with the sheer megabytage those guys were producing for a while there!To check out episode 8, 'The Whedon/Zombie Dance-Off', click here. And here is where you'll find new Couch Surfing episodes in the future :) Category: Couch Surfing -- posted at: 6:27 AM Comments[0] | ||||
Sun, 10 February 2008  And our streak of
weekly Lost podcasts ends at...um...one. Oh well, we had a good run...This week's episode, Confirmed Dead, didn't interest me nearly as much as last week's, so perhaps it's fitting that it should be the first to fall by the audio wayside. With the writers' strike possibly at an end, there may still be hope (blindly optimistic or otherwise) for the season to be completed and aired the way it was intended - 16 consecutive episodes. More episodes means more chance of the odd podcast falling through the cracks, so with that in mind I'm instituting a radical new policy of subsitute textual reviews. Yes, while I may not have enjoyed Confirmed Dead enough to chat about it, I can still muster up the will to write about it! Spoilers for Lost episode 4x02 follow: Click here to open the exciting, text-based content! Update: Now with added Gary! Related links: Confirmed Dead screencaps @ Lost-Media LostCasts Official Lost site Category: Lost Reviews -- posted at: 11:00 AM Comments[0] | ||||
Tue, 5 February 2008  CANNONBALL!!!As if anyone needed any reminder, Lost is back. 7 months to wait and scarcely 7 weeks worth of episodes to look forward to, so Stu and Gary make sure they get in on the ground floor with a wander through the season premiere, The Beginning of the End. Besides a little flash-forward confusion, it's business as usual. No spoilers, as long as you don't count inferences made by reading the opening credits... For more Lost: Official Lost LostCasts Comments[0] | ||||
Fri, 1 February 2008   In episode seven of Couch Surfing, the guys wage war against ill-mannered comic shop owners. Scott recommends the film, 27 Dresses for both Men and Women, while pushing for more James Marsden on the big screen. John is unimpressed with both Saw IV and Hatchet, but finds plenty of Super-Action entertainment with Rambo. The two of them share celebrity meet and greet stories from conventions, but also urge Sarah Michelle Gellar to appear at this year's Buffy Reunion Event, or risk losing fans. The following artists can be heard in this episode:John Reuben, Drowning Pool, Brian Tyler, Marilyn Manson, Fear Factory, Stars, Radiohead, The Crystals, Starling, Paris Hilton, Junior Senior, CSS, INXS, Garbage, Jet, Moby, Tuatara, Journey, Cat Stevens, Blink 182 and The Fabulous Thunderbirds. | ||||
Tue, 29 January 2008  Holy smokes! Three digits!Yes, the episode counter has ticked over to 100 without the webpage imploding in some horrible imitation of the millennium bug. To celebrate said non-implosion, a well-worn DVD makes its way into two DVD players on opposite sides of the Atlantic and simultaneous chatting ensues. As if the name of said DVD was ever in doubt, let's just say it's the one with the llama on the cover.
Comments[0] | ||||
Tue, 22 January 2008  In episode six of Couch Surfing, John and Scott contemplate what it means to be a Real Hero, and then give their thoughts on the film, Cloverfield. Some points of debate include believable characters, motion sickness and magical cameras. Spoilers abound, so proceed with caution. The following artists can be heard in this episode:Wiseguys, David Bowie, Bjork, Bonnie Tyler, Elmer Bernstein, Chemical Brothers, Static-X, The Smiths, Psapp, Josh Joplin Group, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Dashboard Prophets, BT & Sarah McLachlan, Smashing Pumpkins and And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead. Comments[0] | ||||
Fri, 18 January 2008  In episode five of Couch Surfing, John & Scott search for elusive curves on today's modern woman. They outlaw gossip magazines and also praise the new surprise hit show, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. After catching his breath from a title that's way too long, John welcomes Summer Glau back to science fiction. Scott proclaims effects powerhouse, Zoic Studios to be the North American version of WETA. The guys round out their week with a possible end in sight for the writers strike, as well as the superior Blu-ray gaining majority support in the format war. It's the war against weight, the war against the guild, the war against home entertainment and the war against the machines. We say, make love, not war. The following artists can be heard in this episode:Fine Young Cannibals, Weird Al Yankovic, Patsy Cline, Spoon, The Dust Brothers, Brad Fiedel, Nine Inch Nails, Prodigy, Vast, Edwin Starr, Foo Fighters and Deadsy. Comments[0] | ||||
Thu, 10 January 2008  In the fourth excursion of Couch Surfing, John & Scott live for the music. They go nuts over the entertaining adventures of Veronica Mars and Jaye Tyler, while exploring the possibly bleak future ahead for television and showing sympathy for Tim Minear. Eventually, Scott instigates a verbal slap fight, expressing his disappointment in Sarah Michelle Gellar, and her longstanding abandonment of the vampire slayer that made her famous. Attempting to prove that chivalry isn't dead, only missing an arm, John tries to defend her professional career choices. It's not easy. After the dust settles, the guys appoint themselves as Sarah's new managers and a mutual decision is reached in the new direction for her star to shine. It's the best career idea for her, ever! You'll have to listen to the show to find out. The following artists can be heard in this episode:Michael Jackson, Angels & Airwaves, Ivy, Abra Moore, Kate Havnevik, Coldplay, Travis, Longwave, REM, Gavin Rossdale, Orbital, The New Pornographers, Amy Studt, The Verve and The Solids. Comments[0] | ||||
Fri, 4 January 2008  For the third episode of Couch Surfing, John tries to call in sick, while Scott confesses his love of peddling comics on unsuspecting victims. John is lamenting the late, great Veronica Mars, having recently discovered the show on DVD at his local library. Scott longs for the days of a happy Spider-Man. The two also discuss hidden treasures to be found in novelizations of popular movies and television shows, as well as the joys of knifing Captain America and gutting that smug jerk like a fat trout. The following artists can be heard in this episode:Korn, The Dandy Warhols, Air, Death In Vegas, The Replacements, Lali Puna, Stars, Tears For Fears, Rogue Waves, Danny Elfman, Stretch, INXS, Oasis, Beck, Paul McCartney, Better Than Ezra, Rob Dickinson and Moby. Comments[3] | ||||
Mon, 31 December 2007  The second episode of Couch Surfing finds John & Scott in the aftermath of the holiday break. They discuss the pros and cons of dollars as presents, ebay and "rare" collectibles and what the future holds for the Academy Awards. Also of note: For those of you who might give a pretentious crap, you can finally hear what Bill Murray whispered to Scarlett Johansson at the end of Lost In Translation, by going here. We're still working out the kinks of this experimental show, but we hope you will listen and enjoy. The following artists can be heard in this episode:The O'Jays, The Flying Lizards, Andy Partridge, Stars, Dream Academy, Greyboy, David Newman, Rob Dougan, The Cure, Death Cab For Cutie, Bloc Party, Craig Armstrong, Moby, Pale 3 Featuring Beth Hirsch, My Bloody Valentine, Cocteau Twins, Michael Jackson and Moby (again). Comments[0] | ||||
Fri, 21 December 2007  Welcome to the first episode of Couch Surfing. This is a new section of Sofa Dogs, devoted to weekly discussions about the latest news in entertainment. Joining me on this experimental, maiden voyage is Scott Carelli, from Two Geeks, A Mic & A Podcast. Taking a page from the book of Kevin Smith (more like downright ripping out that page), we adopt the Smodcast structure, by playing music behind our random conversations. This is my first attempt at a podcast like this, so please send me feedback and let me know what you think. The following artists can be heard in this episode:Lionrock, Peter Gabriel, Portishead, Remy Zero, Shampoo, Lemon Demon, Sugarloaf, Sarah Michelle Gellar, New Order, They Might Be Giants, Prince, Gnarls Barkley, The Pixies, Camille Saint-Saens, U2 Darlene Love, Yoko Kanno, Danny Elfman, Telefon Tel Aviv, Cinderella Angels & Airwaves, The Dandy Warhols, DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Elmer Bernstein, Christophe Beck, Brad Fiedel, Justin Timberlake Supertramp, Dave Pimer, Flyleaf, Fugazi, Charlie Clouser, Lazlo Bane Coldplay and John McEntire. Comments[0] | ||||
Tue, 18 December 2007  While we were sorting out the general confusion, bewilderment and thumb-twiddling that led to first the sofadogs.com domain expiring and then the libsyn account going inactive, John still managed to distill his thoughts into mp3 form over at Geekshows.us. And when I say distill...well I guess I don't actually mean distill because his guest host spot on Two Geeks, a Mic and a Podcast lasted over two hours.And as an incredibly minor, insignificant side note, it turns out that my failure to renew the .com domain resulted in it being snapped up by some webparking 'service' or other. Oh well. If I knew how to put a positive spin on things I'd say 'Look out for Sofadogs.NET in 2008!!!', but I don't. *sigh* Category: News -- posted at: 4:32 PM Comments[1] | ||||
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