White Board Mafia

One of the things that goes with being a nerd w/an internet connection is trading stories and pickups with like minded people across the web. I had a girl I know from www.psychopathictraders.com tell me she went to a store called Play N Trade and picked up a boxed N64, boxed controller, boxed memory card, and Goldeneye for $55. That’s a STEAL. I was immediately infuriated that store isn’t in my area and I’m unable to partake in their delicious pricing. Earlier this week…and by that I mean yesterday, a friend sent me a link to their site and asked if I’d ever been there. After expressing my anger at no, he tells me a store is open in Marlton. How awesome, that’s between work and home for me. Boomaga and I drove by, and it wasn’t open for business yet, so we drove to another possible location in the Cherry Hill mall and there wasn’t even a storefront. I called the number on the site today, and the district manager answered. He told me they should be opening Mon, Tues, or Wed next week and that I should come by and ask for him when I’m in. I definitely plan on driving by the store every day on the way home from work next week and hopefully I can catch a great deal on some boxed systems. Now if only I don’t spend all my money between now and then. Check em out online at http://www.playntrade.com and see if there is a store in your area. I’ll also post an update after we get in the store.

I’ve been listening to video game music my entire life. Video game music was the first real music for which I had an ear and a passion. Eventually as I grew into a teenager I found my own musical identity, when I became a huge metal fan, listening to the bands which are still my favorites today like Metallica and Iron Maiden. However, before I first heard Master of Puppets, I had been making my own cassette tapes of video game soundtracks for years. Castlevania, Darkstalkers, Mega Man, these were the soundtracks to my early life, and to this day I still listen to the Final Fantasy, Super Mario Galaxy and Super Smash Bros soundtracks today on my iPod from time to time. So when I heard a few years back that live orchestra concerts that played video game music were being organized, I just crossed my fingers and wished that one would come to Philadelphia. I had tickets to Video Games Live in Philly back in 2005, but the show was unceremoniously cancelled and I didn’t find out until the day of the show. I was disappointed, but I knew that I would get another chance. My time finally came last night, October 11, 2009. Video Games Live hit Philadelphia and I wasn’t going to miss it for anything.

                I approached the show with excitement laced with skepticism, because I had heard from a few people online that it was disappointing and overrated. I can gladly say the moment I took my seat and heard the orchestra start to play, the smile that came across my face wouldn’t wear off for the entire show. Of all the concerts I’ve seen in my time, the voice in the back of my head told me this was the one I had waited the longest part of my lifetime to see. I had gotten to see the video game-themed metal band Powerglove last year, but even their gaming-infused music paled in comparison to the experience that was Video Games Live.

The show started out with a compilation of music from older arcade games including Punch-Out, Gauntlet, and Contra among others and as it continued, the audience was treated to a musical “best-of” of some of the gaming industry’s biggest franchises. From the heavy handed themes to Metal Gear Solid, which I will admit had my eyes welling up in emotion and gamer pride, to the lighter hearted music from Sonic the Hedgehog, the show spanned the scope and history of gaming quite well. While the music was originally composed for video games, it still had the universal appeal similar to movie scores or other classical pieces regardless of the context of how the music was created. While the music may mean more to the gamer audience, it can be appreciated by anyone. The show’s host and co-creator, Tommy Tallarico even commented that one of the pieces was his mother’s favorite in the show.

The show proceeded through game themes new and old. The audience was treated to pieces newer franchises like Halo and World of Warcraft and classic games like the Legend of Zelda and Castlevania. There was something for everyone and even game scores I didn’t recognize, such as Civilization IV were so brilliantly performed and orchestrated that there was never a dull moment, even if I had never heard the music before. I was particularly enthused by some of the less currently mainstream choices, such as classic music from Metroid and Mega Man, which I yelled “YEAH!” out loud upon its introduction and was possibly my favorite part of the night. It’s easy to say that last night was the culmination of my 20 years as a video game music enthusiast.

I will say that there were a few things that bothered me personally, but that’s because of my depth of knowledge and experience with video game music. What bothered me first was a longing for more variety in the music from some of the older franchises. For example, The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario both have long history of rich music and several memorable themes across that time but the orchestra just stuck pretty much to the main themes from the original 20+ year old games and it just felt a little limited like they were playing things a little too safe with those franchises. The screen was showing video footage from Super Mario Galaxy, but they weren’t playing any actual music from that game’s incredible soundtrack. I was also disappointed to see that VGL couldn’t secure rights to any SquareEnix footage to accompany some of the excellent Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy music they played. The music was still fantastic, but it took away from the experience to not have the accompanying visuals like they had for all of the other pieces in the show. These issues might not bother someone who isn’t as close to the original material, but as spoiled as I was the whole night it still left me wanting more. Of course, that just means I’ll be back to see what they play next time.

I feared with the rise of licensed music in gaming and the lack of catchy, memorable themes in most new games that the appreciation of video game music would soon die off. However, with the enthusiastic crowd and phenomenal performance from Video Games Live, I’m glad to say it’s now hotter than ever. Even if the music played isn’t exactly new, Video Games Live provides a whole new way to hear and appreciate it. If you’ve been a gamer for the last 10, 15 or 20 years I cannot give this show a stronger recommendation, and be sure to bring your non-gamer friends and family, because they’ll probably have a good time too. I can think of a few people I’m going to talk into coming with me NEXT time!

See you then, Mr. Tallarico!

Simply put, Trick ‘R Treat is the best kept secret of this year, or since the trailer was advertised on the packaging for the DVD release of 300.  Anything you can think of that should be in a Halloween movie, Trick ‘r Treat delivers in spades.  I remember seeing the trailer the day 300 dropped on DVD and immediately becoming impatient for this movie’s release.  Finally, the long wait is over, and I have to say, it’s been worth the wait.  From the movie’s opening scene until the climatic finish the movie sucks you in to a thrill packed rollercoaster ride through 4 interwoven stories.  Adapted from a graphic novel, the story follows the night for 4 groups of people and shows how each person’s story affects the next.  While not the center of the story, you’ll see Sam pop up in each story, the masked mystery from the cover of the DVD.   I only wish they’d fleshed out a story for Sam instead of just leaving him as short, stocky, and mysterious.  For Blu Ray fans, I’ve seen Amazon offering a deal with Trick ‘r Treat and Drag Me To Hell, my favorite horror/thriller released in theaters this year, for $51.98 with free shipping, or pick it the book for about $25.  I strongly urge you to check this movie out and please, SPREAD THE WORD.  9/10

They’re not done yet, but the new forums can be located at http://www.whiteboardmafia.com/board

Hola Amigos, I know it’s been awhile since I rapped at ya.  Flat out, the 10th Annual Gathering of the Juggalos was the shit.  I had some shitty happenings, but overall the trip was insane.  The Don Mega himself, Ice Cube, put it down like no one else I’ve ever seen.  Catch him on tour.  Also, a personal favorite of mine, MC Chris, did an incredible job.  He even turned the Juggalos and got some applause.  Hands down, my absolute favorite memory of this year’s GOTJ was Flashlight Wrestling at 5am on Sunday morning.  It was incredibly personal with less than 100 people in attendance and had live commentary by Violent J, Scott Hall, and Corporal Robinson.  I don’t know what set of Jimmy Snuka but he got in Scott Hall’s face and kept asking him if he wants to take it into the ring and they eventually had to get a few handlers to get him backstage.  Big ups to everyone that made the weekend so memorable.

Some other stuff went on recently like a job shift at work that is in my favor, and I’ve set up my own mini tour.  For ICP’s upcoming BANG POW BOOM tour, I’ll be at 5 dates.  You can catch me in Philly on 10/15, Woopsta the 16th and 17th for Rock N Shock, Detroit Murderous for Hallowicked, Sayreville on 12/4, and Allentown on 12/5.  I’ll also be at the Mastodon/Dethklok show on 11/1 in Philly, and possibly 10/29 in NYC but I haven’t decided yet.

Speaking of Bang Pow Boom, the verdict is in.  This album IS the return of the Dark Carnival.  I’ll start off by saying that I’m still a big fan of The Tempest.  There are a lot of solid jams on that album.  That being said, Bang Pow Boom is INCREDIBLE.  They had me at Intro.  The album starts off incredibly strong and doesn’t stop until the Chop Chop Slide flips your wig, then burns it with the force of a nuclear assault.  I couldn’t believe what I was hearing.

I’ve started using Twitter more since I got the Twitterfon app for my sleek and sexy iPhone, so hit me up @counterfeitgod.  I’ll add some more later, I do fully intend to keep updating the site.

So the time has come for me to head on out to Ye Olde Gathering of the Juggalos.  This year looks to be the biggest and best one they’ve done yet, so if you’ve got a shot at going, take it.  I’ll be back with many details and many pictures on 8/10, and I’m sure some shots will have naked girls too, beauty is questionable.

21 days is all that stands before myself, and utter insanity.  From August 6th-10th, I’ll be enveloped in the most insane event of the year.  24 hour parties and performances from artists like MC Chris, Playaz Lounge Crew, Gwar, Mushroomhead, Ice Cube, and the whole Psychopathic family!  Add in comedians, JCW, and more and you can see why I’m beyond excited.  I’ll be flying into STL on the 4th and doing some tourist stuff before going to the Gathering.  Last year’s was the best weekend of my life, bar none, and this year is actually looking to top that, somehow.  I’ll be filming interviews while I’m there to post up once I get home.  Random Juggalo reaction videos, thoughts, and shout outs.  Get your tickets now at www.juggalogathering.com!

I’ve made it available for advertising to be purchased on the site.  PURELY text at this point, and it can be purchased through www.linkxl.com so, check it out.  If you want a banner ad, send me an email at counterfeitgod@whiteboardmafia.com and we’ll work something out.

On Saturday, Jezus316 and myself went to see Hank III. It’s probably the most diverse show I’ve ever seen outside of GOTJ, and we snagged some pictures after the show. I had an incredible time and recommend you check out the show. Tour dates at the bottom.

Jul 1 2009 8:00P
National Richmond, Virginia
Jul 3 2009 8:00P
Lincoln Theater Raleigh, North Carolina
Jul 4 2009 8:00P
Amos Charlotte, North Carolina
Jul 5 2009 8:00P
Shoreline Hilton Head, South Carolina
Jul 7 2009 8:00P
Music Farm Charleston, South Carolina
Jul 8 2009 8:00P
Masquerade Atlanta, Georgia
Jul 10 2009 8:00P
Culture Room Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Jul 11 2009 8:00P
club at Firestone Orlando, Florida
Jul 12 2009 8:00P
Freebird Jacksonville, Florida
Jul 14 2009 8:00P
The Orange Peel Ashville, North Carolina
Jul 15 2009 8:00P
Valarium Knoxville, Tennessee
Aug 21 2009 8:00P
Pukkelpop Festival Hasselt
Aug 22 2009 8:00P
Lowlands Festival Biddinghauzen
Aug 23 2009 8:00P
underground cologne
Aug 25 2009 8:00P
vega jr. copenhagen
Aug 26 2009 8:00P
grunspan hamburg
Aug 28 2009 8:00P
wacken seaside aurich
Aug 29 2009 8:00P
wacken south nuremberg
Aug 30 2009 8:00P
double DD fest dresden
Sep 1 2009 8:00P
roadrunners berlin
Sep 2 2009 8:00P
Szene Wein veinna
Sep 4 2009 8:00P
schuur lucerne
Sep 5 2009 8:00P
Bluesrock festival tegelen
Sep 6 2009 8:00P
TBA/Confirmed Paris
Sep 8 2009 8:00P
Wulfrun Wolverhampton
Sep 10 2009 8:00P
Garage Glasgow, Scotland
Sep 11 2009 8:00P
Club Academy Manchester
Sep 12 2009 8:00P
london london

Based on that, guess which one I just ate. Anyways, life has been keeping me busy, as usual. While en route to a behind the scenes tour at Eastern State Penitentiary my car decided to take a dive. Across the fucking street. Smoking enough to make me think it was on fire, I pulled into the closest parking lot and all but dove out of the car. Turns out I shattered the coolant cap, the radiator is shot, the water pump is damaged, and a bunch of hoses are shot as well. Yeah, I love driving a wagon, but this car is killing me. Oh how I’d love to trade my Ford Taurus for a Dodge Magnum, but, it’s not in the cards at the moment. I recently cataloged all my CDs using this AWESOME software from http://www.collectorz.com and the magic number at the moment is 453 albums. It’s a little off because it’ll accept the Eddie’s Trunk archive, but there are a few double albums in there, but it counts as one album. A bit lame, but a very small hiccup in an otherwise awesome application. I typed everything in by hand, mostly by the UPC code, but if you have a scanner, you can scan everything in and avoid typing it manually. I recommend the software for those looking to categorize their collections, but I’m not necessarily a fan of paying to organize each different entertainment medium like CDs, DVDs, Video Games, etc. Then if you have an iPhone and $10, there’s an app for that. All negativity aside, it made organizing my collection very easy and it’ll help me avoid purchasing albums multiple times, even if Monster Magnet’s Powertrip was worth buying twice. That album rules. Anyways, check out the collection here
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On the planning plate right now is the 10th annual Gathering of the Juggalos. This year is lining up to be the best one yet, for many reasons. First off, ICE MOTHERFUCKING CUBE. I’ll let that sink in for a moment. Then, once you’ve put your wig back on, GWAR is back to blow it off and split your skull. I feel like I’ve got a Golden Ticket. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m always excited for all the Psychopathic Family to perform, but it’s always interesting to see who else they bring in. I remember being incredibly excited for Kittie in 02, but they ended up not being there. Fucking lame. Powerman 5000 was beyond incredible, Drowning Pool tore the place down, Dope whipped the crowd into a frenzy, and Primer 55 rocked the fuck out. Not all that glitters is gold as Andrew WK might have been the worst performance in GOTJ. At least Bubba Sparxxx got a song in. On the JCW front, you’ll see the likes of 2 Tuff Tony, Viscera, Butterbean, Bull Pain, Ken Shamrock, and Jimmy Jacobs(clap clap clapclapclap). That’s not all, the Rude Boy is coming out of retirement for one more match against Abdullah the Butcher. After that, you’ll see the tower of terror, the Voltron of Juggalos, the JUGGALO WORLD ORDER in action. That’s right, Violent J, Shaggy 2 Dope, Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, and Corporal Robinson face “Holy” Trent Acid and his 4 Alter Boys. The only thing Holy about Trent Acid is how high he gets. On top of that we get Motocross, JJ Walker doing stand up, and all the fresh ass flavor that comes with every Gathering! I plan on interviewing many people at GOTJ, from close friends to random Juggalos about why they’re there and what the Gathering means to them so expect some fresh videos when I get home. This will also include a special interview with Stabber Josh in the tradition of PT’er of the week. I’ll also be touring the Anheiser/Busch brewery in St. Louis and hitting up the Arch as well. August 6-10, mark it down for total devistation.

Before then Jezus316 and I will be attending Hank III on the 27th of this month. We’ll be celebrating Boomaga’s birthday this weekend at Wizard World Philadelphia and the party will continue at Kaiju Big Battel. Know about it. I’m starting to look into selling ads on the site so if you’re interested in that, or want your band interviewed for the site, hit me up. I’ve made a change to the forums, so if you want to post you’ll have to be activated by an Admin. This is in an effort to block against all the spam popping up. If you sign up for the board and your name isn’t activated in a day or so, email me and I’ll take care of you. Until next time Mafiosos, keep your eyes open and keep coming back.