#Junk Boat Tour

[yridenergyridenergy]

Die's Food Diary in Europe (March 2024 tour)

For the magazine Weekly Shinchou April 25th 2024 issue, Die wrote a blog of what he ate on Dir en grey's trip to Europe. Their flight lasted 14 hours.

March 18th – After landing in Warsaw, he went to a seafood restaurant but seeing as he doesn't like seafood or raw food, he ordered a beef steak, which he was satisfied with.

March 19th – Die ate breakfast at the hotel. The buffet typically contains ham, scrambled eggs, salad, bread and coffee. There were sausages and bacon, but they seemed oily/greasy and he was concerned about how much fat they contained. By the third day there though, he started getting bored with that menu.

The lunch is catered by the venue for the concert. It had ham, cheese, bread and minestrone. Because it was the first day and that preparations were hectic, he actually went on stage for that first show without eating dinner. After the show ended, he enjoyed a traditional Italian risotto with mushrooms.

March 20th – Before the second show, he ate pierogi for dinner. He commented that it looks like gyoza but that the taste is "modest"? He also highlighted how it was difficult to get used to the time of day because of how late the shows start in Europe.

March 21st – The band and the staff left on a double-decker bus toward Paris. Die bumped his head on the ceiling of the second floor because it's really low. The bunk beds are narrow for his height but they're decent once he got used to them. They all ate from a service area/stop along the way but Die, not wanting to succumb to the temptation of eating fast food, ate leftovers of a burrito prepared the previous night... which he then realizes can count as fast food too hah.

March 22nd – He ate from traditional French home-style meals that appeared to have been cooked in-house at the venue. Die was excited to try the food out but all the names were in French... The only meal that he could recognize visually was a quiche. I think he ended up trying a few regardless of not knowing what he was eating and he was satisfied.

Die was a bit nervous before going on stage because of the Bataclan's tragic event in 2015 (terrorist shooting). After the show, he had take-out bolognese pasta with thick noodles.

March 23rd – Apparently a fan from Japan gave them takoyaki, which was however heavier than pure takoyaki. He found the taste powdery. All the band members stuffed their faces with takoyaki. The band always receives a bunch of instant food from Japanese fans when they tour overseas, it seems. If someone on the bus starts eating something like ramen, the others are lured in by the smell and they will likely indulge as well. He doesn't usually take (instant?) ramen in Japan, but he finds it tasty on tour overseas.

For dinner, he had kebabs before the show, and pizza afterward. In the end, he did succumb to junk food.

March 24th – Breakfast was served on the ferry boat's restaurant. He took fried eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes and bread while looking out at the sea. At night, he went to a local yakiniku-style restaurant with his American friends. While the atmosphere was similar to a Japanese yakiniku, he felt sorry for his friends about the taste of the food.

......... A menu critic highlighted at the end of the diary that Die had not eaten any fruit or vegetables hahah.

[demonoflight]

Fun facts and tidbits from Deep Cut’s stage dialogue:

While Shiver and Frye have favorite weapon classes they swear by (stringers for Shiver and splatanas for Frye), Big Man is the kind of guy who uses different weapons for different stages. Some of the weapons he uses are brushes (at Inkblot Art Academy), blasters (at Humpback Pump Track) and sloshers (at Eeltail Alley).

Frye likes coming up with attack names for Specials used in highly specific ways and charging in with a war cry in turf battles. She is not stealthy.

Deep Cut sells their treasure from the Crater at a high price to a guy running a shady stall in Hagglefish Market.

Shiver’s need for speed is not limited to riding Master Mega into battle. She has openly contemplated taking the cars at Mincemeat Metalworks and the Manta Maria itself for joyrides, and her parents were worried about her riding a bicycle because she’s a danger and a menace to everybody and WILL run you over.

Some stage dialogue basically confirms Deep Cut are housemates (oh my god they were roommates) - the three of them even go shopping for groceries at MakoMart together (Shiver recommends buying in bulk on Tuesdays for great savings!). Frye keeps trying to sneak unapproved snacks into their cart, but Shiver and Big Man are on to her shenanigans.

Big Man has been teaching the girls how to cook ever since they started living together! In Japanese, Shiver straight up admits to struggling with cooking when she moved out of her parents’ house since she’s never really had to cook before, and Frye says before Big Man taught them the basics she mostly ate junk she got from the supermarket. Either way, Big Man points out Frye has a bad habit of putting a ton of sugar into EVERYTHING. She’s... she’s working on it.

None of the Deep Cut trio have ever lived in a housing complex with apartments like Flounder Heights. Frye is very open to the idea, but Shiver isn’t since she thinks she wouldn’t get along well with neighbors.

Deep Cut’s go-to venue for birthday parties is Big Man’s house. It is unclear if it’s because it’s the biggest and nicest of the clan houses, or if it’s because Big Man (and his family by proxy) are the most easygoing and willing to hold parties there.

Both Big Man and Frye have a past with Undertow Spillway - Big Man got lost there once as a child while chasing butterflies, while a young Frye used to skip dance lessons and take her little brother with her to explore and look for treasure.

Frye used to skip school a LOT.

Deep Cut has filmed music videos at Mincemeat Metalworks and Hammerhead Bridge, but the latter was never released because Big Man was knocked over by a strong wind.

Some time ago, Deep Cut were extras for a movie filmed at Scorch Gorge. They were only in the film for two seconds.

Deep Cut are completely weirded out by the NILS Statue, are further weirded out by the fact no one really talks about anymore, and think it’s stupid that there are still tour boats sailing right by the statue. See, they CAN be sensible every once in a while.

Big Man likes to imagine the big cranes at Sturgeon Shipyard combining into a giant robot. Big Man is a nerd.

One of the Mahi-Mahi Resort dialogues has Shiver complaining about how hot it is at the poolside. In English, Big Man suggests taking a dip in the pool, and immediately realizes his friendly advice could be misconstrued because what works for him does NOT work for an inkfish. Compare and contrast Marie telling Callie to take a dip in said pool back in the first game’s NOA translation... they’ve definitely gotten better about this, Big Man really just comes off as a well-meaning goofball here. Meanwhile, in Japanese, Shiver’s complaint brings him to a realization: “so THAT’S why you keep standing in my shadow when we’re here...”

Frye is the kind of person who goes into turf battle with a weapon in one hand and a snack in the other (the only person, Shiver insists). This has made her the target for seagulls enough times that she has issued a public service warning about the little snack thieves.

Once, Frye used Zipcaster to enter one of the high cages at Scorch Gorge... and could not figure out how to get out. There were tears. She insists she didn’t cry and does not want to talk about it.

[kinardsevan]

scribbles and snippets

There was something about it all that he didn’t have words to piece together to explain it yet. 

Something about that first morning, flying back to the boat, sitting next to each other in the helicopter. The glances that had been exchanged, that he hadn’t pieced together yet. And the moment—because it was a moment—that had passed between them when he’d put his hand on Tommy’s shoulder on the boat. A shared glance with no words that also held a mountain of subtext inside of it. 

The way Tommy had looked at him at Harbor during that afternoon tour, both of them searching a minefield, not knowing what they’d find on the other side, or what any of it meant. The way he’d been open to sharing his own jealousies when Evan admitted his own issues when feeling left out. And then oh god, the way it felt when Tommy had taken the leap and kissed him. It was both the way he hadn’t expected it at all, and yet the way he had so desperately needed it without ever knowing it.

It was the “so that was okay?” and the “so I guess it’s just me that makes you nervous”. It was the second kiss—the one that happened inside his apartment before the first date had fallen on it’s face, because he’d spent days thinking about what it would be like to kiss Tommy again. 

It was the need to make that happen again, no matter the cost. The fact that when he told Tommy he wanted to leap hurdles into a relationship with him, Tommy didn’t even blink. The way he showed up to Maddie and Chimney’s wedding after coming off a nearly 24-hour shift fighting a forest fire and, still in his turnouts, and not only had a good time but didn’t complain about it, didn’t make it a hardship. 

It was the first time he answered the phone at three AM when Evan woke up from a thunderstorm and he was on shift, but he still talked him down from the anxiety attack.

It was how, two weeks later during a date night when another storm hit, he’d stood in the kitchen and just hugged Evan as he trembled with each crack of lightning until the worst of the storm had passed. 

It was the way Tommy had made their first time together a safe place, constantly checking in and making sure that it was okay to continue, that Evan felt safe. The way he consistently told Evan there was no pressure for things to happen one way or another. 

It was every single kiss hello and goodbye, and the way Tommy’s fingers always found him in the dark, pulled him in and kept him safe. It was the love that still hadn’t been acknowledged out loud but was still always present in Tommy’s eyes. 

The truth was, Evan wasn’t sure he would ever have the words to piece together what all of that meant to him. He could try, might even find some semblance of a version that could get close, but he was also pretty positive that part of the issue was that the words he needed didn’t actually exist. Still, that wouldn’t stop him from trying to find them. 

. . .

“What’s this?” 

It’s not an anniversary. They don’t have any special plans. It wasn’t even intended to be a major thing. And yet. 

Tommy looks over at him quizzically as he reaches into the gift bag, pulls out a leather-bound book that’s been art and junk journaled through already. Still, as he opens it up, there’s more than just scraps, washi tape, and things of the like inside it. As he flips further through, he realizes there are writings inside the book. Some handwritten, some printed. 

“Just something I’ve been working on,” Evan tells him, watching apprehensively as Tommy flips through the pages. He pauses on one of the pages covered in handwritten scrawl, inhales a stuttered breath at the words. 

i saw you across a room. i saw you you in the dark. fathomed a world in which our atoms met underneath the same stars. 

Tommy looks up at him for a moment, words lost in his throat before his focus is back on the book. He thumbs through a few more pages, lands on another one with handwritten words. Evan gulps as his eyes fall onto the page. It’s his handwriting, his words. 

somewhere in between  stars and galaxies you saw the forest from the trees and understood things I couldn’t even see

like twinkling lights in the midnight sky every time you laugh, that look in your eyes somehow you managed to take me by surprise

you’ve seen places I haven’t been and can soften the edges defined by darkness with the asteroids in your eyes

I tried to lose my demons in Jupiter’s hurricane but you stood right there  telling me to fight for more

and you felt like Halle’s comet one in a million, don’t fit into anything but I’d tell you, you definitely fit here even if it’s just with me

and comets crash all the time  that’s what you said one night they burn out in ash and lose their light but I told you, you’d never be out of sight

whether you’re in Jupiter’s hurricane or out on Saturn’s rings zooming through the night on Halle’s comet or sitting here talking to me

I can see the galaxies in your eyes  and I promise, they’re not lost on me

“I um…I kept trying to figure out how-how to put it into words,” Evan stammers. “And nothing ever felt right. So I kinda started looking at other people’s, and writing things down.” 

Tommy shakes his head, still wordless as he looks back and forth between Evan and the words on the page. He keeps opening and closing his mouth like he might have the words, only to lose them before they actually make it out. 

He sets the book down after a moment and turns fully to face Evan, hands sliding up the blonde’s face before he pulls him in to an open-mouthed kiss, his tongue finding Evan’s instantly. Evan leans into him, hands roaming the expanse of Tommy’s chest until oxygen forces them to break apart. 

Tommy inhales a few deep breaths, pressing his forehead into the younger man’s. 

“The amount of thought, and attention put into that book,” Tommy rasps. He squeezes a fistful of Evan’s hair, lets out a long breath. “It’s more than anyone has ever taken the time to do.” He leans back then so that they can see each other clearly. “You don’t have to find perfect words, Evan. You already have them.” 

[hopefulkidshark]

Fishing village, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam: Hạ Long Bay, in northeast Vietnam, is known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. Junk boat tours and sea kayak expeditions take visitors past islands named for their shapes, including Stone Dog and Teapot islets. Wikipedia

[five-rivers]

Velveteen

Phic phight for @bibliophilea !

It was rich, velveteen black, strewn with diamond dust and the distant, misty gauze of nebulae.  The Earth and moon were both crescent-shaped far below, their curves and colors bright with reflected sunlight and the twinkle of cities.  The silence up here was complete, a rarefied and encompassing peace. At the same time, the gentle fizz of ectoplasm exposed to vacuum prickled over her skin.

Dani could understand why Danny liked it.  

The cold.  The quiet.  All fears made irrelevant by distance and enormity.  Everything was so big.  Everything was so small. 

Danny flew up next to her, beaming, already back from his tour collecting the space junk from this particular segment of orbit.  He created a bubble shield around The two of them and filled it with a haze of ectoplasm.  

“Well?  What do you think?” he asked.  His voice sounded off.  Ectoplasm wasn't air.  

“It's cool,” said Dani.  

“I know, right?  Can you believe we're only, like, a hundred miles up?  That's like driving to Chicago.”

Dani had been to Chicago before.  She hadn't driven there.  Or driven anywhere, actually.  Flying was better, but boats were also good.  

Flying straight up had also been a good deal less interesting than flying to Chicago.  

“You'd think more stuff would be here if it's only as far away as Chicago is from Amity.”

Danny shrugged.  “Up is hard.  But not for us!”  He did a little spin.  “If it wasn't for the Anti-Ecto acts, we'd totally be shoo-ins for NASA.  We'd save them so much money.”

“That could be fun,” said Dani, looking out past the shield, at the stars.  “Working together.”

Danny gently nudged her shoulder.  “You don't have to force yourself, you know.  Sam and Tucker aren't clamoring to find a way up here.”

“Yeah, but I'm your sister.”  And she was supposed to be him.  She'd be lying if she said it didn't make her feel… less real.  

As Jazz had told her ages ago, trauma didn't disappear overnight.

“Jazz isn't here, either.  It's okay.”

For a second, Dani wondered if he had read her mind, bringing up Jazz like that, but then she put Danny's statement back in context.  

“It is cool.  Being out here.”

“It's okay if you don't like it.”

“I do like it.”

“Dani, I'm not going to love you less just because we don't have the same hobbies.”

Well.  What was she supposed to say to that?

It was officially getting too serious and sappy around here. 

Dani let out a very put-upon sigh.  “It is nice.  But it's so empty.  And it took an hour to fly here.”

Danny's smile was soft, understanding.  “A bit much, huh?”  He settled back against the curve of the shield.  “What would you like to do, if it wasn't for the Anti-Ecto acts?”

“I don't know,” said Dani, floating down to rest beside him.  The shield and ectoplasm made the stars twinkle and blur again, but it was more comfortable to see them this way.  “Marine biology, maybe.  Or ocean wildlife rehabilitation.  Those sound cool.”

“Huh.  Maybe our next field trip could be to the bottom of the ocean.”

“Oh, yeah, that sounds cool.  Not that this isn't, I mean–”  She felt the tips of her ears flush with ectoplasm.  

Danny started to laugh.  

[papaziggy-devblog]

It is the largest bony fish in the world, weighing up to 2,300 kg. And since they have so little circumference, that makes them gigantic dishes that God must have accidentally dropped while washing them one day and passed them by, because no one could have imagined this would happen. AND THEY ARE USELESS. EVERY KILO OF THAT IS A WASTED KILO AND EVERY CENTIMETER OF THEM (3.3M BY 4.2M) IS WASTED SPACE. They are so completely useless that scientists even argue about how they move. They have little control other than some small movements. Some say they need to push the water with their mouth to control the direction. They could use their tail fin EXCEPT, GUESS WHAT, what it doesn't do is grow. It just keeps folding in on itself, so the fucking cells are being made, but this floating piece of fucking junk just doesn't put them where they need to go. They also do not have a swim bladder. You know, the one thing a fish needs to make sure they don't sink to the bottom of the ocean when they stop moving and it keeps them from tipping over in the water. Already barely able to move to begin with, this creature can't stop its lagging tour across the ocean or it's FUCKED. BUT. BUT. They can get stranded on the surface! And it happens often! Because without that swim bladder crap, if the ocean pushes the finest but biggest fish on the fucking planet, you're out of fucking luck! There is no creature on this earth that needs a swim bladder more than this spit in the face of nature, BUT IT DOESN'T HAVE IT. Some scientists have speculated that when they do, they are absorbing energy from the sun because no one knows how they manage to get energy to begin with. So they need the sun I guess. But good news, when they end up trapped like this, it gives the birds a chance to land on that fucking island that is your body and eat the bugs and parasites on your skin because it's basically a breeding ground for slowly migrating parasites. Pros and cons. "If they're that big, they must be at least decent predators." No. The most dangerous thing about them is, as you may have guessed, their stupidity. They have caused the death of a person. Because a wave put him on a boat. More exactly to a human being. And in 2005 he decided to relive his mighty glory days and do it again, this time landing on a four-year-old. However, the boy was not injured. All right, fish. Great job. Fool.

They mostly just eat jellyfish, because OF COURSE, they could only eat something that has no brains and can accidentally slip into their mouths. Everything they eat has next to zero nutritional value and because it's so stupidly fucking big, it has to eat a fucking mountain of worthless jellyfish to stay alive. Silly. See that ridiculous open mouth? Don't let that expression fool you, they just don't have the fucking ability to shut their mouths because their teeth are fused together, and they can't shut it. You know why she floats around like the most horrible inflatable doll in the history of our planet. Because he's actually just as confused as we are about why the fuck he's still alive.

However, they are sometimes eaten. BUT CHUNGO WHAT HAPPENS. No animals actually use them as a food source, they usually just mutilate them for hanging out. Seals have been seen playing with their flippers like frisbees, probably the most useful thing ever to be done with them. "Wow, those are good arguments, this fish is truly proof that God has abandoned us." Yes, thanks. "But if they're so bad at literally everything, why haven't they gone extinct?" Big question. BECAUSE THIS THING IS SO STUPID IT DOESN'T REALIZE IT SHOULD NOT EXIST. HE IS SO INcapable of LITERALLY EVERYTHING THAT HE IS NOT AWARE OF BEING THE WORST FUCKING FISH EVER. And what does he do then to survive? It lays many, many eggs. Besides some bugs, there are some ants and things that will lay more. But the sunfish WILL LAY 300 MILLION EGGS IN ONE THROW. 300,000,000. SURVIVING BECAUSE IT WOULD BE STATISTICALLY IMPROBABLE, what the hell am I saying, IMPOSSIBLE, FOR AT LEAST ONE OF THE 300,000,000 NOT TO SURVIVE (which is every time they lay eggs). And this concludes why I hate this complete failure of evolution, the sunfish. If I ever see one, I plan to throw stones at it.

I

WHA?

WHAT FISH?

WHAT IS THIS?

WHERE DID THIS COME FROM?

WHAT PROMPTED THIS?

IS THIS THE DRAMA GOING ON?

IS IT FISH DRAMA?

I AM SO CONFUSED

SCREAMING

[sweetdreamsjeff]

Jeff Buckley: "It's Never Over"

Jim Irvin, MOJO, August 1997

JUST BEFORE 9PM ON THE EVENING of Thursday, May 29, Jeff Buckley and his friend Keith Foti realised they were lost.

They'd just left a Memphis restaurant and were on their way to a nearby rehearsal studio. Work was about to commence on Jeff's long-delayed second album. Band members Mick Grondahl and Michael Tighe were arriving at Memphis airport and tour manager Gary Bowen had gone to meet their plane. Jeff was looking forward to jamming with his band again. But he couldn't remember where the studio was. Neither could Keith. They'd been there once before and knew it was round here somewhere...

But what the hell, it was a nice night and they were both in good spirits. They had an acoustic guitar and a ghettoblaster. Jeff suggested they go down to the riverbank to hang out and play a little music while they pondered their next move.

A few yards downriver from a bridge that takes tourists on the Memphis monorail across to a peninsular known as Mud Island (attractions include a miniature Mississippi in concrete), was a spot where Jeff had swum before. It wasn't exactly picturesque – the shore of the wide commercial channel turns into slimy mud, dotted with sharp rock, broken bottles and twisted junk – but Jeff decided to go in. He didn't bother to take off his jeans or the black and white T-shirt with the crossed rifles and the word "Altamont" printed upon it. Because of all the debris, he didn't even remove his heavy boots. He simply waded into the muddy water up to his knees. Keith tried to dissuade him. But the headstrong Buckley kept on walking – laughing and singing as he went. Staying at the water's edge, Keith strummed the guitar while Jeff kicked back in the shallows.

They struck up one of Jeff's favourite songs: "You need cooling, honey I'm not fooling/I'm gonna send ya back to schooling" – Led Zeppelin's ‘Whole Lotta Love’. Jeff joked about how like Robert Plant his voice sounded echoing around the harbour. Enjoying the water, he lay on his back and began to swim further out, singing as he went. Some small boats went by in both directions.

By this time, dusk had faded. Only the glow of the city illuminated the water. Jeff had been in the river for about a quarter of an hour when Keith spotted a large tugboat passing. He saw Jeff begin to head back towards the shore as the tug's heavy wake approached. When the wash threatened to surge up the bank, Keith turned around to move the stereo so it wouldn't get wet. When he turned back Jeff had gone.

For a moment, Keith thought Jeff was messing around. He began to call out for him. The heavy undertow must have dragged the singer beneath the water where the riverbed drops. His waterlogged clothes and boots would have kept him there. Keith thought about going in after him, but didn't know where to start. He began to shout for help. A passer-by heard him and alerted the Memphis police at 9.22pm.

Within half an hour a full-scale search was in place. A patrol scoured the bank, scuba divers went into the water, and a helicopter fitted with heat-imaging equipment and a searchlight circled overhead. The Mississippi's spring tides are famously treacherous. Sergeant Dale Simms of the Memphis Police (Homicide) told MOJO that this stretch of river is not a recognised accident black spot for swimmers, simply because no-one who lives there would dare go in. Local lore has it that, at certain times, if you were to heave a heavy log into the water it would not only sink but would be as likely to reappear upriver, travelling against the current, as downriver. After three hours, the police had found no trace of the singer. At 1am the search was abandoned.

The following morning Buckley was pronounced missing presumed drowned. Jeff's mother Mary Guibert later issued a statement: "It has become apparent to me that my son will not be walking out of the river. It is now time to make plans to celebrate a life that was golden. I ask people who cared about Jeff to please be honourable and faithful to his memory, to send their best wishes to Jeff and to all of us who are mourning his passing."

IT WAS JUST ANOTHER REFERRAL FOR MUSIC BUSINESS attorney George Stein on a New York spring morning in 1992. The kid had a development deal with a small record company and he wanted a lawyer to give it a look. "I just kind of rubber-stamped it for him, another client among hundreds, but it wasn't a good deal and I had to tell him that." It might have been a routine meeting, but Stein was intrigued enough to go and see the young man play at a club called Tramps on a bill with guitarist Gary Lucas.

"I was blown away"

Stein's epiphany is typical of a first sighting of Jeff Buckley. Everyone who spoke to MOJO for this article described their initial experience of his incredible voice in similar terms. Particularly if they saw him in the intimate spaces he loved to play.

Simon Raymonde of The Cocteau Twins remembers Jeff being introduced to them as Tim Buckley's son while they were touring America in 1991. Having recorded an ineffably beautiful version of Tim's ‘Song For The Siren’ (as This Mortal Coil) they were pleased to meet the young man, who was in turn awestruck by their music, especially the spectral voice of Elizabeth Fraser. Three years later it was their turn to see him perform. Simon and Liz went together to a small bar in Atlanta. "It was just Jeff and his little Fender guitar and amp. He sang for two hours and he knocked me sideways. Liz and I spent some time with him over the next few days. He had tremendous energy and was completely into music. He carried this ghettoblaster every where to play all his favourite CDs: mostly by people with amazing voices, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Aretha Franklin, Dylan. And he could mimic them all. He could do Liz too. I loved him. He was an energising sort of person; if it was a choice between being infected by his zest or a night on the tour bus, well, you didn't want to go to bed."

JEFF BUCKLEY, A BEAUTIFUL, UNFAILINGLY CHARMING MAN, with a heaven-sent voice, could identify the emotional core of any kind of song – from Led Zeppelin to Benjamin Britten, from Mahalia Jackson to Mahler – bring it to an ambitious, eclectic repertoire and sing it full of soul.

There was hardly any precedent for a rock performer of his potential, perhaps only Jimi Hendrix had such velocity of promise, maybe only Marvin Gaye brought such a daring voice to pop. But, unlike Marvin's, or that of Tim Buckley, Jeff's story was not one of a gifted young man leaning on the self-destruct button. Though he often sang about sorrow or death – almost every song on Grace alludes to it – Jeff Buckley loved life. His approach to it bore no resemblance to his father's and, when he finally stepped into the spotlight in his mid-twenties, he wanted to avoid any comparisons.

Yet the first time he came to public attention was in a New York tribute to his father, Greetings From Tim Buckley, organised by Hal Wilner and staged at St Anne's Church in Brooklyn on April 26, 1991. Wilner asked local guitar luminary Gary Lucas, an alumnus of Captain Beefheart's band, to accompany Jeff that night.

Lucas recalls his first sighting of Jeff at rehearsals: "He had an electric presence and a look on his face like he was about to burst out of his skin. We were immediately simpatico musically, both big fans of Led Zeppelin, The Doors and The Smiths. I invited him to my flat and we worked out one of his father's songs, ‘The King's Chain’, from Sefronia, which Hal Wilner had suggested. I had an arrangement where I created a loop with an Eastern sound and played some chords behind it. Jeff just started singing over this and it was overwhelming."

SCOTT MOORHEAD HAD A NOMADIC UPBRINGING AROUND Orange County, California. He was born on November 17, 1966, a few months after his estranged father, a folk singer, had released his debut album. His Panamanian mother, a pianist, remarried, to a motor mechanic. For a few years the family was stable; but when mother and stepfather split, Scott got used to a life being bundled between trailer parks and cramped houses. Aged eight, he went to stay with his dad for a week. It was the first and last time they met. Two months later his 28-year-old father was dead from an accidental overdose.

In a young life full of flux, one constant was music. West Side Story, Joni Mitchell, Hendrix, Nat King Cole, The Beatles – when the TV wasn't blaring, music of all kinds was playing wherever the family settled. When he was 12, Scott's stepfather bought him a copy of Led Zeppelin's Physical Graffiti. The album inspired him to play the guitar and harmonica. When his mother and stepfather finally divorced, he opted to take the name on his birth certificate: Jeffrey Scott Buckley

Jeff's friend Roy introduced him to Benjamin Britten and opera in his mid-teens. In the '80s he became bewitched by punk and the new British bands, including The Smiths and, bizarrely, The Toy Dolls. After high school, rather than attend college, he studied for a while at the LA Musicians Institute. Though this, he'd declare later, was "the biggest waste of time".

At about this time, Buckley demoed a batch of his own compositions. Among them were nascent versions of ‘Last Goodbye’ and ‘Eternal Life’, highlights of Grace. They weren't enthusiastically received in LA: "I was around an environment that thought they were loser songs," Buckley told college radio interviewer Gayle Kelemen when Grace appeared. "I put them on the album to prove to the songs that they weren't losers. Sort of like finding kids that have been told all their lives that they're pieces of shit, and finally [showing] them they're worth knowing and loving."

Jeff thought he might get more attention in New York.

ON THE NIGHT OF THE TIM BUCKLEY TRIBUTE, JEFF WAS first on after the interval. "He came out and sang ‘I Never Asked To Be Your Mountain’," recalls Lucas. "It was electrifying." For the encore he sang ‘Once I Was’, a song he remembered his mother playing him as a five-year-old, while his stepfather was out. On the last verse he broke a guitar string and finished the song a cappella. "It destroyed everybody," says Lucas. Jeff described this performance as paying his last respects to his father. From then on he'd avoid the subject.

Gary Lucas soon asked Jeff to front his band Gods And Monsters, an amorphous, occasional outfit which Lucas envisaged becoming something permanent with a Led Zeppelin feel. Buckley accepted. While Jeff took a summer trip home, Lucas sent him demos of guitar pieces called ‘And You Will’ and ‘Rise Up And Be’. Jeff arrived back in New York and extracted lyrics from a large notebook that he carried everywhere. He re-christened the songs ‘Mojo Pin’ and ‘Grace’.

On August 17, 1991, Lucas went into Krypton studios in New York's SoHo district with the Gods And Monsters rhythm section, Jared Nickerson and Tony Lewis, to cut demos of the songs. Buckley came down in the early evening to add vocals, having been reluctant to reveal in rehearsals exactly what he was going to sing. But when the hour came, he shone. "I just heard magic happen," says Lucas, still moved by the memory. "He'd worked up a sinuous vocal arrangement, all these intricate parts with Eastern influences. He surpassed my wildest expectations. We were playing rough mixes as we were packing up, and some jazz musicians came in for the next session. I remember the look on their faces: Wow, what is this stuff?!"

Lucas decided this was the most stunning music he'd ever worked on. "I felt it could shake the world." He got his lawyer to send round tapes. A scout came to see the two play in Gary's flat, and a development deal was quickly drawn up. On November 1, Lucas took Jeff with him to the CMJ New Music Festival. "This was effectively the debut of the new band. John Cale was in the audience, Nick Cave. We did three numbers, ‘Grace’, ‘Mojo Pin’, opening with another song we wrote called ‘Bluebird Blues’. The first line of that was, 'I have an angel, her eyes are the ocean blue.' But when Jeff came on, the first thing he sang 'I am a stone cold loner.' A little thing went off in my head. That was Jeff's first statement of intent appearing with the group!"

In the new year, Jeff planned to move permanently to New York (where he now had a steady girlfriend, artist Rebecca Moore). He and Lucas were to work on new material and showcase the group at St Anne's Church on Friday, March 13. New songs – now arranged to include Jeff playing guitar too – came thick and fast: ‘Cruel’, ‘In The Cantina’, ‘Malign Fiesta’, ‘The Harem Man’, ‘Story Without Words’, ‘No One Must Find You Here’ and ‘She Is Free’. They also worked up covers of an old ska tune – ‘How Long Will It Take’, Van Morrison's ‘Sweet Thing’ and Dylan's ‘Farewell Angelina’. But Jeff became unhappy during rehearsals and told Lucas he couldn't work with Nickerson and Lewis. His vision of the group in tatters, Lucas "reluctantly let them go". Ten days before the gig they hired Anton Fier and Tony Maimone. "In fact, the show was really good," conceded Lucas. "Jeff was magnificent. The next day I said to my wife, He did it again. He sang his ass off. This is as good as any music out there...I was elated, jumping up and down. And then I got a call from Jeff saying he was leaving."

Lucas was devastated, but realised that Jeff was determined to control his own future. The nomadic Buckley may also have remained uneasy about permanence. Later he'd admit as much to Rolling Stone, talking of "ways I've grown up with: moving from place to place, grabbing on to people, making fast friends and letting them go." Lucas had a few more bookings to honour and Jeff guested. Their final date together was at Tramps. This was the show George Stein caught.

Stein was soon encouraging record companies to check out his new find. They were reluctant: Jeff was singing mostly covers, and weird ones at that. Stein persevered. "You've just gotta see him, trust me, you'll get it."

EAST VILLAGE SINGER TOM CLARK WAS PISSED OFF WHEN he noticed that his regular Monday night slot at The Sin-e Cafe on St Mark's Place had been moved. And for a guy he'd never heard of, some Jeff Buckley. "I found out who he was soon enough," Clark laughs. "I went to see him and it was like seeing someone going out with your girlfriend. He was doing 98 per cent covers – though in his own way – and as a musician I knew who did every song, but there were a billion girls there who thought he wrote them all!" Buckley became a regular and Clark became a friend.

"He got on with everybody," recalls former Sin-e proprietor, Shane Doyle. "I gave him the gig without knowing anything about him. Sin-e was this laid-back place where musicians just showed up and played, and he liked that atmosphere." Jeff would sing all night, from nine at night until two in the morning, with a few breaks, trying everything he knew and honing his own style.

Stein's persistence paid off and A&R men began to frequent Sin-e. Jeff wouldn't allow them to reserve seats. They had to get there early and sit with the Village eccentrics Jeff encouraged, people such as Tree Man, a tramp who festooned himself with twigs. "He had a kind of disregard for the idea of being 'on' for certain people," confirms Doyle. "He didn't like pressure. There'd be days when there were only 15 or 20 people in the room, yet he'd be at his best. All the major labels showed up. Steve Berkowitz at Columbia was the guy I got to know, and he was very mindful of Jeff's attitude – that it wasn't about pushing him or getting everything out of him."

The Sin-e shows developed Jeff's desire to take risks. His confidence in his singing grew. He left mimicry behind and sculpted a vast repertoire – Edith Piaf ballads, MC5 songs, Asian laments, classical lieder – into something unique. (Friends testify that Jeff had only to hear a song once to memorise it completely. He could also uncannily mimic sounds and old TV shows.) You can hear him stirring the vocal crucible on the subsequent Live At Sin-e EP when he stretches Van Morrison's ‘The Way Young Lovers Do’ over 10 minutes, moving from lovelorn moan to soulful croon to an impossible scat segment that climbs into a Robert Plant-on-helium climax. All Buckley's future shows would be marked by their unpredictability as he went in search of these extended episodes of rapture.

As summer warmed up, so did the bidding war. "Everybody wanted to sign him," says Stein. "But he was fearful of the industry, afraid of being chewed up and spat out. He had to work out whether it was possible to work with a major label and keep his integrity. Sometimes he and I would go out to City Island, a little boating community outside New York, to cool out by the water and talk. Driving out there I'd try and start the conversation about his future, his goals and his thoughts – you know, the deep stuff – and all he wanted to do was hunch over the car radio. He was like a primitive that had discovered a new device for making magic, he would jump from pop to reggae to rock to classical, humming along and so involved, like he'd never had a chance to hear music before and if he didn't listen to it now, in this half hour, he was going to miss something."

Stein also recalls a revealing moment when they were talking to record companies: "We were sitting there with one label president and he was asking Jeff what he was looking for from them and Jeff said, 'Well, if I went with...' and he paused. He couldn't remember which label it was! Everybody knows which label you're at because it's so important. But Jeff just looked at me and said, 'Where are we?' And it was guileless. He wasn't being disingenuous. The label president shrugged and loved Jeff even more because he realised that the kid just didn't care about that stuff."

Finally, in October 1992, Jeff signed with Columbia. The deal allowed him time to write without rushing anything out. Everyone was happy. The brass went down to Sin-e to checkout their new boy. Stein laughs at the memory; "Jeff asked the audience, What do you want to hear? And someone in the crowd shouted 'Nusrat!' Jeff proceeded to play, not a riff, not a minute, not two, but about a quarter an hour of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. I thought I was having an acid nip – I couldn't believe that my artist, just signed, was singing a 15 minute Pakistani cover song. That was Jeff. He didn't pander. It was just about the music he loved."

Andy Wallace, who'd mixed Nirvana's Nevermind, was hired to produce the debut album. Jeff decided to hire a band to toughen his sound and expand his options. His method of finding the perfect players being simply to try and attract like-minded souls rather than advertise for virtuosi. "Who wants to tour with a bunch of muso pricks you can't stand?" notes Tom Clark. "Jeff went for people he liked."

He'd met Mick Grondahl at an after-show party in March 1993. Grondahl, an increasingly disillusioned member of various New York bands, was impressed with Jeff's musical daring, and shared his vision of a band that could mix great songs with freefalling improvisation. "Here was a person who wanted to just fall into the abyss and trust that he'd land on his two feet," Grondahl told Gayle Keleman in 1995. A bass and 12-string jam in Jeff's flat that summer cemented the relationship. Six weeks later, after they'd found drummer Matt Johnson, Grondahl found himself heading up a mountain in upstate New York to record.

To keep Jeff out of the city, Andy Wallace had suggested the residential Bearsville studios in Woodstock. "Jeff had quite a crew of fans and friends hanging around. While he was very driven, he was not the most organised person and easily distracted." Pre-production had revolved around jamming while the band became comfortable with each other, so knocking the material into shape was slow, exacerbated by Jeff's constant desire to improve everything. "Jeff never stood still," Wallace recollects. "Whatever he was working on, he was torn between finishing it so he could move on or not finishing it shoe could update it. He'd never sing a song the same way twice. Or even close. We'd go in to fix a line and he'd sing a whole new verse." Experiment became the norm as they tried numerous routes to the best performances. Wallace would also get Jeff to do hour-long, after-dinner Sin-e style solo sets in the studio. "We recorded four or five of those. He did a lot of covers and a couple of very funny things, a take off of old Delta blues that had us cracking up."

Gary Lucas was invited to Bearsville to add guitar to ‘Grace’ and ‘Mojo Pin’, and witnessed Jeff laying down the startling vocals to the album's title song. "He came out of the booth with this sheepish, little boy look, like, Did I do it good? He knew it was fucking great."

AS WORK ON GRACE WOUND DOWN AND LIVE AT SIN-E WAS being released, Dave Lory, former manager of Greg Allman, came on board as co-manager with Stein. His first sighting of Jeff on-stage was when he took the singer on a two-week solo tour of tiny North American venues, early in 1994. "Just him and me puffing into bad truck stops and buying bad cassettes and talking about music," he remembers. "The first couple of nights in Vancouver were kinda rough. He could do anything he wanted in New York at that point, but now we were getting into the general public who didn't know who he was, but this was how he wanted to learn his craft."

The solo dates brought Buckley to Europe for the first time. His British premier was on March 11, 1994 at Ratners, a tiny bar in Sheffield. After three London dates that week, he was the talk of the town. This writer won't ever forget seeing Jeff Buckley sing ‘Hallelujah’ at the Borderline club and hearing a stunned hush descend over the usually clamorous music-biz crowd. It was the start of a mutual love affair with European audiences. The French fell hard for him, eventually awarding Grace the Grand Prix Internationale Du Disque, a prestigious gong previously handed to the likes of Edith Piaf, Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell. A French EP, Live At The Bataclan caught the controlled hysteria of his Parisian shows (Jeff advised friends not to buy "that fucking record", however). British publicist Jacquie Rice recalls a large, enthralled, almost entirely male Italian audience singing along to ‘Lilac Wine’ like some love-struck football crowd.

A second guitarist Michael Tighe, who'd never played in a band before, was recruited for a pre-Grace tour. During rehearsals he came up with a guitar line that transfixed Jeff. They quickly wrote the haunting ‘So Real’. Excited by the new composition, Jeff insisted they cut it live in an LA studio, initially to use as a B-side. The results were so good the song was added to Grace, usurping one called ‘Forget Her’ which, according to Wallace, was "a simple, three chord thing with a great bluesy vocal, recorded in one take. He felt it didn't say much about him as a songwriter, which I certainly don't agree with. A wonderful song."

Grace (finally issued in August 1994) received ecstatic reviews but didn't ignite any charts or garner much airplay. Buckley was happy, however, to tour behind the album for the next 18 months and let his following grow naturally. Audiences all over the world began to swell. With only one official single, ‘Last Goodbye’, and hardly any interviews, word of mouth was doing the bulk of the promotional work.

"Jeff was the type of artist whose instincts you trusted," states Dave Lory. "We used to laugh about it. He would call up and want to do something unconventional, and the joke was, 'We're gonna jump off the cliff and the parachute always opens.' Whether it was setting up his mic on one side of the stage – other managers would be all, 'Oh no, you gotta be right in the centre' – to when he first started with the band, they didn't rehearse, just jammed, and didn't play the songs until the first night. And they were great. And ‘Kanga-Roo’ [Buckley's wild, super-extended version of the Big Star song] – others would say, 'He's playing that song too long.' But I saw it as the only way the band could really grow together, so I'd fight to let 'em do it. That was the fun of managing Jeff Buckley, jumping off that cliff."

The gigs veered between delicate acoustic sets and full-scale sonic onslaughts; Jeff becoming increasingly interested in the harder end of the sound and the power of a band. But in spring '96 in Sydney, Australia, drummer Matt Johnson announced his intention to leave, finally enforcing a hiatus in which Jeff could start writing the follow-up to Grace. But the rigours of touring and the pressure he felt to improve upon his debut initiated a long spell of writer's block. "Columbia wanted the second album out faster," notes Stein. "But if the record company had a timetable and Jeff Buckley had a timetable, Jeff's won out. He wouldn't put something out if it wasn't ready."

Slowly, the songs came, many of them dark and strange.

On October 26, 1996, Jeff posted a rambling message on his website telling fans that his next album, due in the spring of '97, would be called My Sweetheart The Drunk. Wallace remembers the title being discussed: "He described the album to me as a guidebook for losers in love." Tom Clark heard some of the demos: "The new stuff sounded pretty rocking, but he also had some incredibly beautiful things. One song was a hit record, I swear."

In December, Buckley decided to develop his new material by airing the work-in-progress on a string of solo dates, appearing under pseudonyms such as The Crackrobats, Possessed By Elves, Topless America and A Puppet Show Named Julio. When fans complained that they hadn't known about these shows, Buckley replied via the Internet, in January this year: "[The shows] are simply my own way of survival, self-assessment and recreation. If they don't happen...nothing else can. I can be all alone with nothing to help me save myself.

"I'm in the middle of some wild shit right now," he continued, "but I'm coming soon to a cardboard display case near you, and I'll come out of my hole and we'll make bonfires out of ticket stubs come the summer."

A new drummer, Parker Kindred, debuted on February 9 at Arlene's Grocery in New York before the band relocated to Memphis at the invitation of The Grifters, a band Jeff had befriended who were based at nearby Easley Studios. Buckley rented a house on North Rembert Street and work started at Easley with Tom Verlaine as a guest player and co-producer. A few songs were recorded but the sessions fell apart, though Buckley and Verlaine remained friendly. The band returned to New York and Andy Wallace was asked to produce again. Work was due to begin on June 30.

Jeff elected to stay in Memphis. He even made enquiries with his managers about buying the house on Rembert Street. Every Monday night, in an echo of the Sin-e days, he'd perform in a bar called Barristers. MOJO writer Robert Gordon witnessed some of these sets: "It was very informal and as much about working stuff out as playing complete songs. He'd talk a lot between songs, saying funny stuff and just having a good time."

On May 27, Jeff called his old Sin-e buddy Tom Clark, who was recuperating after a bad fall. "I'd not heard from him for ages so it was great to talk to him. We talked about the usual things: girls, guitars and music. And he spoke about his frustration making this record. He'd got over the writer's block. Bam. He had about 30 songs ready."

DAVE LORY CALLED GEORGE STEIN AT TWO IN THE MORN-ing on May 30. "Jeff's missing."

"I was groggy but I thought, He'll show up. He's gone underground before," says Stein. "But then Dave said he was in the Mississippi and there were divers. My heart sank. I knew he was gone."

On the afternoon of June 4, passengers on the American Queen riverboat sighted something caught in branches floating in the Mississippi. It was the body of a young man in an Altamont T-shirt.

Two weeks later, medical examiner Tammy Ruth declared that Jeff Buckley had tested negative for drugs and that his blood alcohol level was less than half that required for a person to be declared drunk. "The official cause of death is accidental drowning," she concluded. "We're not investigating anything," confirmed Lieutenant Richard True of the Memphis Police.

"HE WAS A COMPLICATED PERSON," DECIDES GEORGE Stein, when asked to sum up his charge and friend. "He had a lot of sides to him. But he had a musical soul. He was a musical soul."

September 1, 1994, The Garage in London's Finsbury Park. Jeff Buckley removes his shirt. The first three rows – entirely comprised, it seems, of smitten women – swoon en masse. The room ripples with sweat and electricity throughout the heady song which follows. As it finishes, one girl yells in a desperate, yearning tone, "Have my babies!" "And mine!" shouts another. Jeff laughs. "Hey, I gotta show to do."

"He didn't let too many people in. Even his good friends," concludes Tom Clark. "No-one really knows what his private life was like. But he was great to be with and so funny. The minute Jeff walked into a bar he'd be singing, the theme song to The Jeffersons, anything. I feel bad for his band. They're really hurting right now I am too. I really miss that fucking guy."

[dragon-snoots-a-boopin]

Well, here is what I assume is the first wave of LEGO Animal Crossing sets. Going to be honest, the house builds looks super pathetic to me. There's little to no interior space and the little space there is is crammed full of crap like how would one imagine the character walking around with all that junk on the floor. I don't mind the Bunnie's Outdoor Activities, Kapp'n's Island Boat Tour and Julian's Birthday Party sets at all.

But the two house ones are just so lacking in my opinion. However, the worst offender is the set in the top picture there because there's no way in hell that a set with 535 pieces is worth $75 and there's no way you can justify that with LEGO having to pay for the Animal Crossing license, I don't think that has anything to do with it. I might get the three sets I listed above and probably no more than that.

[odditycircus-2002]

When Jimmy Crystal Proposed to You

We should be about a good junk of the way done with your life story with Jimmy Crystal, at least until I get another stroke of inspiration. For now, I hope you enjoy this set of headcanons!

PREV

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(I don't own this gif)

You and Jimmy were out for another one of your date nights, which isn't that out of the ordinary even with both of your busy schedules. Jimmy with getting Crystal Enterprises to be known as both the most well-known entertainment agency and the best entertainment agency. You were with your band when it came to writing new songs, recording songs, tours, making music videos, and trying your hand at acting. What made this date extra special for you both? It's the anniversary of when you both started officially dating.

Much to your pleasant surprise, instead of the usual high-class and swanky restaurants and shows; Jimmy instead invited you to the park you both used to frequent for a walk and boat ride. With no immediate work business to attend to, you and Jimmy start to relax and enjoy the mostly quiet ride, save for your ferryman. You leaned against Jimmy, who wrapped an arm around your waist, as you absorb this moment in time to commit every detail from memory.

From the sound of the river's waves gently crashing against the sides of the gondola; the way Redshore city's lights illuminated the night sky so brightly that it almost appears to still be day; down to the warmth of your then boyfriend's hand on your waist and the smell of his cologne mixed with the natural scent that just smelt like him.

You then strike up a conversation with Jimmy, chatting and joking in a way you haven't for a long while.

"I've missed having nights like this, no, I've missed us. I've missed you, Jimmy."

Jimmy then lifts your head with a single finger, careful not to pierce your throat with one of his claws. He gives you a charming and soft smile with hooded eyes fixated on you.

"I know and so do I, Sunshine. I promise, after tonight, we'll be spending a lot more quality time together."

You felt a pang of dejection when you and Jimmy's ride came to an end, as if you both were now leaving behind your own little world. However, you're quick to shake off this feeling when Jimmy leads you back with his arm hooked in yours to his limo and had his driver take you to your next destination for dinner.

You were fully expecting Jimmy to take you to one of the many fancy restaurants under his company's brand name, so imagine your surprise when he pulls up to a 1950s-themed restaurant and not just any 50s-themed restaurant, but the one you like to frequent with the rest of your band every other Wednesday, the Joe Rabbit Trim. Jimmy chuckles when seeing your surprised expression.

"What, you think I'd take you to our usual food joints? C'mon, sweetheart, it's our one-year anniversary; give me a bit of credit here, even if this place looks like a wax museum with a pulse."

You let Jimmy know your appreciation and pleasant surprise by wrapping your arms around your boyfriend and giving him a smooch on the cheeks.

"Thanks, Jimbo"

Jimmy wraps an arm around your waist as he grumbles about "acting lovey-dovey" in public, but the smile on his face tells you otherwise. You are eventually led to a pink Cadillac that was cut in half and recycled as a booth. Similarly, with the boat ride, you chat about everything and anything, including the performances up on stage. Jimmy gives them more scrutiny than necessary.

"How do they even hold auditions here? Is the manager tone deaf or what?"

You placate Jimmy with a paw over his own before replying.

"Jim, you're here on an anniversary date with your girlfriend, not at work."

"I know, I know, sweetheart. Thanks for the reminder."

"Anytime, hun."

You give Jimmy a wink, who gives you a charming smile. Halfway through your dinner, the restaurant manager announces the start of what Joe Rabbit Trim's also well known for, its Twist contest. You immediately volunteer yourself and Jimmy as the first contestants.

"Woah, woah, woah, Sunshine, I don't do no twist. It ain't exactly my style, ya hear?"

"No, no, no, I do believe it is our anniversary date, and you're the one who decided to take me out to my favorite food joint. Please, Jimmy? Won't you dance with your girl?"

You plead sweetly with one paw over Jimmy's own as you flutter your lashes. Your boyfriend gives a scowl before eventually sighing and giving in. You give joyful shout and drag Jimmy by the paw out of your booth to get up on stage, causing him to more or less stumble behind you to keep up.

Not surprisingly, given you and Jimmy's celebrity couple status and respective careers, the restaurant's patrons cheer when both of you come on stage and announce your names. The crowd's applause didn't die until a song, "You Can Never Tell" by Chuck Berry, started to play, signaling you and Jimmy to start dancing.

For a wolf that claimed that he "don't do no twist," you can confidently say that Jimmy ain't too shabby, especially when he started to loosen up through the song and really get into it. You almost forgot the fact that you were performing in front of a crowd as your attention was on your date, smiling widely for the entire song. Jimmy, for his part, couldn't quite keep his gaze off you, practically hypnotized by how you danced with exuberance with a hint of a provocative motive, causing the necklace he gave you to bounce wildly against your chest. Like earlier during the boat ride, it was as if you and Jimmy were in your little fantasy world. You find yourself wishing that you could stay in this moment forever.

However, like before, this little moment came to an end along with the song. You're pulled out of your stupor by the applause and cheers of the crowd. You and Jimmy both face the crowd with smiles and waves, with you giving an exaggerated courtesy. You'd thought that would be the end of being up on stage that night until Jimmy grabbed the microphone from the manager before he could ask for the next pair of volunteers. Your boyfriend started off as if he were on a talk show or wrapping up another show.

"Heya everybody, how ya doin' tonight? Thank you, thank you all, you're too kind, honestly, too kind. I know you didn't expect us up on this stage tonight to give you a show, but let's be honest, you're glad we did."

The crowd chuckles at the quip. Jimmy then places a paw into his pants pocket and takes on a lax posture.

"But this just ain't any ol' date night for us. No, it's our one-year anniversary tonight!"

As expected, this gets the crowd roused in delight, causing another round of applause from the crowd. They quiet down when Jimmy gestures with the hand holding the mic to settle down.

"And as much as Sunny loves this quirky place, and to be honest, I might buy this joint later, it ain't the only reason why I'm here."

Jimmy then walks over to you and takes out a blue velvet box. You let out a gasp with both of your paws covering your muzzle when Jimmy then gets down on one knee to pop open the box, revealing a sunflower-themed ring with a diamond in the center that sparkles beautifully in the spotlight.

"Y/N L/N aka Sunflower aka Sunny aka, Light of my life, will you do me the honor of becoming Mrs. Crystal? I can't think of anyone else I'd want to spend the rest of my life with."

Looking back now, you suppose you should've noticed the dozens of pairs of eyes staring intently at you, all of them watching with great intent. All of them practically begging you to say yes because who in their right mind would say no to the Jimmy Crystal? Maybe you should've known from the fact there was a crowd watching you in a public space that's a haven to you and your friends; the way the spotlights were shining on you two and you two alone; maybe you could've noticed the millions of little signs that this was another show of Jimmy's starring you but ran completely by him. Yet, at that moment, you didn't notice any of the dozens of pairs of eyes, the lights, the suffocating silence, nor the thick tension. You were only focused on Jimmy giving you a soft smile with steely blue eyes fixated on you and how your heart felt ready to burst out of your chest.

Of course, you said yes!

Jimmy barely got the ring on you before you grabbed him to smash your lips together. Your new fiance rolls along with it and dips you as the crowd explodes from jubilation at what unfolded before them.

It wasn't long after you called your family and gathered your friends to tell them of your engagement. Of course, all of you celebrated, and they (for the most part) were indeed happy for you! Yet, some of the conversations you had with your bandmates/closest friends weren't ... fully congratulatory. It was more on the cautious side and questioning if you fully thought your marriage through with Mr. Crystal if you're sure he'd make a good husband. You wave them all off and shut them down, not wanting to think of anything they have to say in regard to your relationship with Jimmy. All while not realizing how this sprouted some new unspoken strain between you and your band.

Playlist while writing this:

"A Place with No Name" by Michael Jackson

"For Your Entertainment" by Adam Lambert

"Die Young" by Ke$ha

"Feeling Good" by Michael Buble

"Fly Me to the Moon" by Bart Howard

"Carousel" By Melanie Martinez

"Cry Wolf" by A-ha""Cry Wolf" by A-ha

"Just the Two of Us" by Bill Withers

[mukul02]

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Situated in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is renowned for its opulent cultural legacy and breathtaking landscapes. Drawing travelers from across the globe, this nation boasts a tropical climate catering to diverse interests. Whether you’re a fan of history, a culinary enthusiast, a beach lover, or an adventure seeker, Vietnam tour packages extend a warm welcome with experiences tailored to every preference. So, let’s discover some of the top places to visit in Vietnam with your family and friends.

TOP AND BEST PLACES TO EXPLORE IN VIETNAM

HANOI

Source: hotels.com

Start your journey in Vietnam with the capital city, Hanoi. Steeped in history, Hanoi reflects the country’s resilience and charm. The Old Quarter is a maze of small streets where you can witness the city’s vibrant street life, taste local delicacies, and shop for traditional crafts.

Additionally, don’t miss the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, surrounded by historical temples.

HA LONG BAY

It is another must-visit destination in Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to around 1,600 limestone islands and islets rising from emerald waters. Exploring this picturesque bay is best done by a traditional junk boat, readily available for rental.

Moreover, Kayaking is another popular and excellent way to get up close and personal with the bay’s natural beauty.

PHONG NHA-KE BANG NATIONAL PARK

Source: lonelyplanet.com

For nature lovers, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a true paradise waiting to be discovered. It is home to the world’s biggest cave systems, including Son Doong, the park is a UNESCO-listed site filled with lush landscapes, underground rivers, and captivating limestone formations. Take a guided tour to visit the impressive caves and soak in the pristine beauty of this natural wonder.

SAPA

Nestled in the northern reaches of Vietnam, Sapa is a charming town celebrated for its breathtaking mountain vistas, intricate rice terraces, and vibrant ethnic hill tribes. Serving as the portal to Fansipan, Vietnam’s loftiest peak, Sapa offers myriad exploration options, whether by foot or through a scenic cable car journey.

A distinctive aspect of the Sapa experience lies in the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Delve into the traditions of diverse ethnic groups, such as the Red Dzao, Hmong, and Dao, by opting to stay with a welcoming local family, fostering a rich understanding of their unique heritage.

HALONG BAY

Halong Bay is one of the beautiful bays near the Chinese border in the Gulf of Tonkin. The bay is famous for its towering limestone cliffs, emerald-green waters, and romantic cruise tours. You can explore the bay’s many islands, caves, and beaches on a traditional junk boat, kayaking, or swimming in the cool water. Halong Bay is also great for rock climbing, hiking, and fishing.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Vietnam is a captivating nation, offering diverse experiences catering to every traveler’s taste. The country has various destinations to explore, from vibrant urban hubs to serene rural landscapes, from unspoiled beaches to awe-inspiring mountains. The ones mentioned above are merely a snapshot of Vietnam culture. So, if you are planning to visit Vietnam, prepare your luggage, secure your tickets, and brace yourself for an unforgettable expedition across the enchanting landscapes with Vietnam tour packages.

[aonoexpat]

10-08-2023

Yesterday, I spent the morning in Kaikōura, and joined a fellow Dutchie on a boat tour to spot albatross! These majestic birds hold the record for the largest wingspan of any flying bird on earth, even beating the condor. The ones we saw maxed out at about 3 meters, and they were a spectacular sight to see. They make a lot more sounds than I had expected, and boy are they fun :) The skipper had a batch of food that she could toss into the water to attract the birds, and they were clearly familiar with the process, because they were following us from the moment we left the harbour. This also meant they were not afraid of us at all, and were happy to get up close and personal!

My favourite one was the wandering albatross, which we saw the most individuals of. They are elegant flyers, slightly less elegant during landing and takeoff, and have the friendliest little faces...

...as opposed to the black-browed albatross, who looked perpetually pissed off for being beaten to the food by its larger cousins:

Other species we saw included the great northern petrel, a whole bunch of cape petrels (the smaller black and white birds in the photos above) who were masters at soaring along with the boat, Salvin's albatross, white-capped albatross, a couple of shags and plenty of seagulls. I did get seasick unfortunately as the sea conditions were labeled 'moderate', but luckily I had had maybe two bites of bread for breakfast so I didn't make a mess, and I had come prepared with ginger candy. The skipper gave me some nice warm ginger tea as well. Both she and the other passenger took good care of me ❤

After the tour I decided to give up my plans of hiking for the rest of the day, because a warning was issued for heavy snow in the evening. The skipper told me they might even close the state highway if it got really bad, so I didn't want to take my chances with that. As Kaikōura didn't make me feel very welcome in the first place due to their strict rules about self-contained camping, I packed up my things and left, heading down the East coast to Ōtautahi. It was another long drive, and I was really tired by the time I arrived. I was happy to find a parking spot for the night close to some takeaway junk food, and got settled for the bad weather to hit here as well.

And just as was forecast, today has been a hell of a rainy day in Ōtautahi, and, in all honesty, in my mind too. I know with a blog like this it can seem like everything on my trip is sunshine and rainbows, as you, as the readers, see the highlights. The highlights are what I take photos of, what I can passionately recount to you. But I won't omit the downsides. Sure, going on hikes and seeing spectacular sights is fun. But you know what's not fun? Waking up at 3 A.M. to a noise when you know you're all alone in a parking lot off an unsealed road in the middle of the woods. Getting told off by a town council member for not having the right type of toilet. Always being on the lookout for public facilities, all of which usually feel unsafe. Not knowing when or where you'll next be able to have a shower. A leaking faucet in the back of your van and constant worries about its status, hoping the cold weather isn't causing a mould infestation in places I can't see. Wearing gloves inside because it's literally freezing outside.

And the annoying thing is, I don't feel like I have a right to complain. I've got an extremely comfortable van with soft blankets, free electricity with my solar panel, drinking water, and enough resources to live from. But I'm all alone. All the time. The moments where the highs seem worth the struggle in between are starting to dwindle in numbers. The rest of the trip feels like a challenge I've set myself that I'll be happy to have overcome. I currently don't feel very excited about it at all. I know that will change, I know in a little while I'll look back on this and it'll seem silly that I ever thought about it, but today I really just want to go home.

I've spent some time today writing to Workaway hosts in the Ōtautahi area, hoping to maybe meet up and hang out with locals. I feel like I need to find some inspiration again, and making a more long-term plan will help. I would like to have a clearer picture of where I'm going, and when I'll get there. Maybe after this week I'll be able to form that picture. Because I don't want to give up just yet. There is still so much left to see and do. But I know in order to enjoy those things, I need to be in a better head space. How I'll get there, I'm not sure yet. But I am determined to.

(^ credit to pastel-hazy-dreams)

[thetremorssaga]

Some facts about Burt Gummer

-Frosted Flakes are "Grrrrreat" because Burt Gummer said so.

-Just because you're paranoid, doesn't mean Burt Gummer is not out to get you.

-Heather Gummer did not go to visit her sister. She was used as graboid bait.

-Assblasters do not carry eggs. They carry calcium deposits that have formed around Burt Gummer's bullets.

-Graboids are only endangered because of Burt Gummer.

-Graboids lay dormant for 300 years out of fear of Burt Gummer.

-Shriekers reproduce at incredible rates to keep up with Burt Gummer's kill count.

-Graboids don't really have three tentacles. They originally had five, but Burt Gummer shot two off.

-Graboids don't stink. They reak out of fear of Burt Gummer.

-The original mascot for every school was Burt Gummer. But he demanded royalties in 50-mil. tank rounds, which were too expensive.

-At the end of each Tremors film/show, Stampede Entertainment includes the following disclaimer: "We wish we could say no graboids were hurt in the making of this film, but Burt Gummer condems all liars."

-The original mascot for Corn Flakes was an assblaster, up until 1990. The year Burt Gummer was born.

-Shriekers and assblasters are only deaf because of the sounds of Burt Gummer's elephant gun.

-Nessie does not show up for tour boats anymore. The last time she did, she came face to face with Burt Gummer.

-Maguyver may be able to build a helicopter out of a paperclip and duct tape, but Burt Gummer can blow it up.

-Burt Gummer trained Yoda.

-Four pounds of C-4 is never enough. Because Burt Gummer said so.

-Burt Gummer single-handedly brought down the Romulan Imperial Fleet, using only "a few household chemicals in the proper proportions."

-The Phantom of the Opera's face is so deformed because he dared defy Burt Gummer.

-Sauron got his idea for the Ring from Burt Gummer's hat.

-Dick Cheney did not shoot his hunting partner. Burt Gummer did.

-Graboids exist for the sole purpose of Burt Gummer's target practice.

-Burt Gummer is Chuck Norris's role model.

-Burt Gummer does not teach his Survival School students how to make potato guns. He teaches them how to turn potatos into anti-tank rounds.

-Burt Gummer did not start on a BB gun. He started on tomahawk missles.

-Burt Gummer does not need a deity to condone such irony. He condones it himself.

-Burt Gummer does not own a cat or a dog. He owns an assblaster.

-When Burt Gummer's power wagon breaks down, he rides El Blanco.

-It never rains in Perfection Valley. Graboid guts just fall from the sky.

-The Marines rejected Burt Gummer for being too hardcore.

-The Tremors series ended because the Graboid Union got sick of working with Burt Gummer.

-The only reason Melvin Plug is still alive is because Burt Gummer knows El Blanco doesn't eat junk food.

-The last time another graboid dared enter Perfection Valley is the last time it rained.

-The Oklahoma City Bombing was not due to Timmothy McVey. Burt Gummer missed his target.

-The only reason California has earthquakes is Burt Gummer.

-Humans are only at the top of the food chain because Burt Gummer does all the hunting.

-Burt Gummer was originally in a band, until he had the brilliant idea of using his elephant gun for sound effects. The result was the loss of his band.

-Voldermort was digging through Burt Gummer's trash and became all-powerful when he found a used condom.

-Voldermort disappeared because of Burt Gummer.

-Burt Gummer sank Atlantis with his elephant gun.

-Although Burt Gummer does not own a dog, he does enjoy a game of fetch on the weekends. With El Blanco, a watch, and a toy truck.

-Burt Gummer is paranoid of himself.

-Burt Gummer had a sebaceous cyst removed. That cyst is what we now call "Chuck Norris". (Thanks to Alan Wells of Phoenix, AZ)

-Mark Zuckerburg secretly works for Burt Gummer.

-You never heard of Hawks on Burt Gummer's hat? That's 'cause he made them extinct and wears it as a trophy. (Alex Harman of House Springs, Missouri)

-Michael Gross even fears Burt Gummer. That's why he's Anti-Gun Control. (Alex Harman)

-The Ghostbusters only have a plasma gun because Burt sold it to them so he could buy the elephant gun.

-Burt Gummer stalks Slender Man.

-Slender Man couldn't sleep after a night of researching Burt Gummer.

[coolvietnamlove]

Hạ Long Bay

Bay in Vietnam

Hạ Long Bay

Hạ Long Bay, in northeast Vietnam, is known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. Junk boat tours and sea kayak expeditions take visitors past islands named for their shapes, including Stone Dog and Teapot islets. The region is popular for scuba diving, rock climbing and hiking, particularly in mountainous Cát Bà National Park

Coordinates: 20°54′N 107°12′E / 20.9°N 107.2°E

Location: Vietnam

Ha Long Bay - Vietnam (by guido da rozze) 

[vinnybonzer]

Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay - Where to opt in!

Welcome to the breathtaking world of Northern Vietnam’s three stunning bays: Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay. Each bay offers its own unique charm, from the bustling beauty of Ha Long Bay to the serene escape of Lan Ha Bay and the untouched tranquility of Bai Tu Long Bay. Whether you’re seeking adventure, peace, or an off-the-beaten-path experience, these bays have something special for everyone.

Let’s dive into what makes each of these destinations so enchanting and help you find the perfect match for your next Vietnam holiday package!

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is the superstar of Northern Vietnam, with its emerald waters and over 1,600 limestone islands. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason—think towering cliffs, hidden caves, and awe-inspiring views that leave you speechless. From cruising on traditional junk boats to exploring caves like Sung Sot Cave, there’s no shortage of activities. You can kayak, swim, or even hike to the top of Titop Island for panoramic views. Being the most famous of the three, Ha Long Bay is well-developed for tourism. You’ll find a wide range of accommodations, tours, and activities to choose from.

However, with popularity comes crowds. Ha Long Bay can get quite busy, especially during peak season, which might take away from the feeling of serenity. Additionally, some travelers find that Ha Long Bay feels a bit too commercialized, with a lot of boats and tourist-centric activities that might not appeal to those looking for a more authentic experience.

Lan Ha Bay

As one of the most splendid Vietnam things to see, Lan Ha Bay offers the same stunning scenery as Ha Long Bay but without the hustle and bustle. It’s less crowded, making it a peaceful retreat for those who want to relax. The waters here are incredibly clear, and the bay is dotted with over 300 lush islands. It’s a great spot for kayaking, swimming, and sunbathing on secluded beaches. In addition, Lan Ha Bay’s proximity to Cat Ba Island means you can easily explore the island’s national park, go rock climbing, or enjoy the local culture.

While the tranquility is a plus, Lan Ha Bay is less developed than Ha Long Bay. This means fewer options for accommodations and dining, though this can also be a perk for those seeking a more rustic experience. Furthermore, getting to Lan Ha Bay usually involves passing through Ha Long City or Cat Ba Island, which might require a bit more planning compared to Ha Long Bay’s direct access.

Bai Tu Long Bay

If you’re looking to escape the crowds altogether, Bai Tu Long Bay is your sanctuary. It’s much less visited than Ha Long Bay, giving you a more intimate connection with nature. Bai Tu Long Bay’s scenery rivals that of Ha Long Bay but feels more untouched and pristine. You’ll find quiet beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to explore traditional fishing villages like Vung Vieng. The bay also offers a deeper glimpse into local life, with opportunities to visit floating villages and learn about traditional fishing practices.

Nevertheless, the remoteness of Bai Tu Long Bay means fewer tourist facilities. Accommodation options are more limited, and tours are less frequent, so planning ahead is essential. While the natural beauty is unparalleled, there are fewer organized activities and attractions compared to Ha Long Bay, which might not suit travelers looking for a packed itinerary.

Whether you choose the vibrant energy of Ha Long Bay, the serene beauty of Lan Ha Bay, or the untouched splendor of Bai Tu Long Bay, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Each bay offers a unique slice of paradise, so it’s all about finding the one that resonates with your travel style. Happy exploring!

[chikucabllp]

The Best Activities to Do in Chandigarh with a Tempo Traveller Rental

Chandigarh was built from scratch into an organized city with wide roads, parks, and fun attractions. Hiring a tempo traveller in Chandigarh provides effortless transportation so everyone can focus on enjoying the sights rather than driving stresses. Tempo travellers seat 12-20 people comfortably with luggage room too. Travelling by tempo traveller rental keeps your group happily together while sightseeing top spots like Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, or popular markets around the city. Why hassle with multiple cars and directions when tempo traveller rentals enhance memories of Chandigarh through flexible sightseeing?

1. Explore Rock Garden

The Rock Garden is an amazing place made by one man named Nek Chand. He used trash and junk to build neat statues and quiet water areas you walk through. There are arches, pathways, and even falls flowing to see while exploring. It's fun to take photos of the different sculptures. The Rock Garden shows how creative someone can get with recycled materials. When visiting Chandigarh, hire a tempo traveller from a rental company to take your family and friends directly to the Rock Garden entrance. The tempo traveller is a good-sized vehicle for groups that keeps everyone together. So go for tempo traveller hire in Chandigarh for your next sightseeing.

2. Visit Sukhna Lake

You will love visiting Sukhna Lake for its fun boating rides across the beautiful water. Don't forget your camera - the lake has awesome golden sunrises and colourful pink sunsets. The scenic views make Sukhna Lake a favourite place to visit and hang out in Chandigarh. You can book a tempo traveller on rent in Chandigarh to take groups directly to Sukhna Lake to catch the prettiest views all year round. Chandigarh tempo traveller rental companies offer customised sightseeing packages so you can tour Sukhna Lake worry-free while a friendly driver handles local roads.

3. Day Trip to Morni Hills

The Morni Hills make for a fun day trip outside Chandigarh to be closer to nature. You can pack your backpack and put on your walking shoes. Many trails wind through the green hills perfect for hiking and seeing birds. Tikkar Taal is a magical little lake tucked away in the palms for pedal boating adventures. The drive only takes a couple of hours from Chandigarh into the countryside. You can go for a tempo traveller on rent in Chandigarh for a comfortable ride. A tempo traveller rental fits everyone comfortably for a full day of fresh air and sights away from the city. You can gather your family or closest friends for road trip vibes to the peaceful vibes of little lake towns on the scenic trail to Morni Hills

[hongkon]

Best Junk Boat Rentals Families In Hong Kong

Experience the beauty of Hong Kong's coastline with the exciting Hong Kong Junk Boat Tour offered by Hong Kong Yachting. Sail through the stunning waters aboard a traditional Chinese junk boat, soaking in the picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere. This tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the city from a different perspective, creating unforgettable memories for you and your companions. Embark on this journey with Hong Kong Yachting for an unforgettable adventure on the seas of Hong Kong.