“Annie” the musical (the new 2012 broadway cast recording)

       That adorable little waif who has captured more hearts in the unfortunate story gone good, is released yet once again in a dynamite digital recording new for the stage. Since the seventies this score has won countless awards for its musical numbers and its performance. Running nearly six years in front of oceans of admirers, we now have those memories once again placed in lock, stock, and barrel for us to enjoy. The crisp sounds relay those glorious days of little Annie and her claim to happiness. It may have been a hard knock life for our little Annie, but I think you’re gonna like it here.

“The Producers” (Mel Brooks, funny money, a crook, and a neurotic)

       You have to continue the ever rolling laugh meter on this one. Apparently it has never settled down since the release of this comedic house of cards. It has however created a landslide effect on the belly ache statistics throughout its time. Mel Brooks has deposited his share of guffaws, giggles, and goo goos into the hearts of everyone he’s touched with his masterful absurdities and quite obvious humor (most times it’s the best kind of humor). And the laugh machine prevails…

       This milestone movie has placed its stone on the pillar of comedy history forever. The crooked delivery Zero Mostel casts upon the screen plays out the more than stereotypical thief in the night con man times a thousand, alongside the disquieting panicking neurotic Gene Wilder and his innocent demeanor.

       Hoping to flop big time and bumble their way into the big bucks, the numbers just don’t line up according to their badly thought out plan. Their wishful disaster of a play takes off like a rocket, igniting the crowd to adore their Broadway buffoonery, “Springtime for Hitler”. Who knew? This places our embezzling friends in quite the kerfuffle, landing our money jugglers in the big house, the slammer, the clink, well…you know what I mean. It’s got it all…now in a blue ray and DVD combo pack collectors edition. Laugh up!

“Conrad Tao” Voyages (innovation meets expression)

       When innovation becomes the mastermind, it surpasses the potential of possibility and expels creativity in a truly expressive way. This musical collection demonstrates a classical tour de force with a coup beyond the scope of modern music. With the well-chosen pieces presented here, and the mode and mood which accompany the notation, the keyboard becomes a notion of sound and takes the path of least resistance into a fresh demonstrative methodology. The classical aspect is greatly respected as its predecessors held their work in the highest esteem, and continues the legacy in this recording. The difference is the fastidious manner of presentation. The artistic integrity is apparent and shines like a thousand suns into the far reaches of the chosen works. The original compositions are inventive, technical, and daring. An excellent young readers guide for classical music into the modern day…and beyond.

SKYWATCH (CD)

       When the genre of christian rock opens wide, the circle is not broken, it merely shines its light upon talent that somehow stands alone…or at least up front. And as in any area of aptitude the frontrunners pave the way for the word of their testimony.

       This amazing unit of merry musicians shed their unconditional light not only on Christ and Him crucified but on the realm of musicianship that renders musical notation soaring on the wings of eagles. The bands undisputed energy and heart is reflected throughout their self titled CD, SKYWATCH in many varied forms, from the nimble fingered instrumentation to the mighty mid range vocals that dance with a dalliance of tenderness and power, complementing their most profound lyrical content. Their scope ranges from the delicate to the rumbling of the skies and they sound even better live. Praising our Lord with volume or tears both work in concert with each other in an ever tantalizing move of success.

       The quality is as sharp as a Ginsu knife and their ability to abide on stage with each other is ever so prevalent. I wholeheartedly seek out bands who don’t sound like the other ten thousand in the industry, and this is one of them. SKYWATCH can rock the foundations or place the palm of their hand upon your heart and move your spirit closer to God…and after all, isn’t that what the genre is all about?

Downeast Scenic Railroad (Ellsworth Maine)

       As time goes by, many things change. Many times we would very much liked to hold onto those moments forever…or at least just a little bit longer than is allowed. The Downeast Scenic Railroad in Ellsworth Maine has held one of those points in time and made it stand still…or at least till the train starts rolling. Rebuilt, refurbished old-time train coaches carry its passengers along a ten-mile stretch from Ellsworth Maine to the Calais branch line, through Ellsworth Falls and onto Washington Junction.

       The woodsy outdoors on the road (or track) less travelled features areas where gathered waters form ponds, bogs, and marshes. Some creatures may be seen depending more or less on the weather and time of day.

       The history piped in over the speakers within the confines of the old train cars tell us the stories of much of the formulated encounters that many of our nations past leaders have accomplished.

       The vintage train pulled ever so mightily by its 1948 diesel engine tentatively rumbles past towns, woods, and the great outdoors of Maine showing its beauty.

       Ride the rails upon the shoulders of this historic engine and take a walk on the open outdoor car to get even closer to the great outdoors.

Lougee and Frederick Florist (for your community)

       I read something the other day, it read “more Mayberry and less Honey Boo Boo”. It’s a shame we should even know anything about Honey Boo Boo but that’s where the world is going. And within that world there are places that would prefer Mayberry. On State street in Bangor Maine, a community oriented florist caters to the needs of the area with care, courtesy, and beautiful flowers. Featuring a business in the community means that they meet and exceed a variety of wonder. Fresh flowers, arrangements, and all you would like to see are followed by colorful displays of their work and on time delivery. So, if you find yourself in need of a gift for someone special for any occasion, find Lougee and Fredericks in Bangor Maine…for the community.

(American Masters) Mel Brooks: make a noise

       Once again America’s favorite funnyman still has something to say. His sixty years of unparalleled comedic insanity has placed more smiles, giggles, and laughs on our unsuspecting faces for more years than some of us care to count. This biography is a no holds barred type of feature spilling over with grand court jester entertainment. This guy from Brooklyn has had originality as his partner beyond the scope of normal friendships. Long lost stories, interviews with many admirers, and professional mishaps, both funny and sad are placed together for a unique and rare insight into the mind and heart of a man who’s very legacy has and always will be the sound of laughter.