You need to hear this….YES, YOU.

I don’t care who you are, or what music you listen to.  Just go listen to this….

This album is the best release I’ve heard in MANY years!  It’s no surprise that members from some of the best Long Island indie bands (Inside, Dearly Departed, Blood Red and Ancient Tongue) came together and produced such a mature sounding record.  It has a little of everything – beautiful melodies, driving guitars, sharp beats, a bit of twang, and thought-provoking lyrics.  The songs range from fast and energetic, to easy and harmonious.  And as much as I didn’t want to say this, there is a bit of a pop undertone in select songs which actually make this a very well-rounded album that can appeal to all.

Oh, and not to mention they put on a rocking live show – being a SEVEN-piece band. 

I haven’t put on a full face helmet since I traded in my sportbike for a chopper over ten years ago.  I had then opted for a brain bucket before settling on the vintage open face style of helmet which seemed to better suit the Sportster/bobber I purchased once I moved back to the States.  And, that style also seemed to work with my most recent purchase – a Triumph Thruxton R. 

But during the recent chilly fall days, my boyfriend had me go to Maximum Motorsports to pick up his brand new Ducati 959.  So it was time to dust off the old full face Suomy (couldn’t be seen on a luxury machine with a nerd helmet).  And instantly, I remembered the advantages of a full face helmet (beyond safety, of course)  I was significantly warmer than when I wore the open face helmet.  And for me, that was a game changer.  Those of you that know me, know how stubborn I can be, especially in regards to gear.  And my dislike of the typical bulky, stiff, uncomfortable cold weather gear, has kept me from riding on cool days for…about…as long as I can remember.

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​Mammy's Kitchen
114 North Third Street
Bardstown, KY 40004

In this quaint, historic village, I saw a sign above a restaurant, "Mammy's Kitchen" and my growling stomach begged me to explore. Upon entering I was greeted by the most courteous southern drawl requesting me to "take a seat wherever ya want". I made myself cozy in the booth and took in the eclectic surroundings. The walls of the restaurant were covered with whimsical Southern chotchkies: think old barn doors, signs with barn animals and cute cliques, and vintage clocks. The red china cabinet was a stand out feature, along with the stuffed animals adorning a high shelf to celebrate the spring. Even the old worn out chairs, and tacky vinyl covered booths seemed to fit right-in. The waitresses topped-off the warm atmosphere with their friendly smiles, wearing shirts with the slogan, "Southern Cookin Makes You Good Lookin". And yes, they all actually looked like they ate this home-cooking, showing off their cute curves with fitted shirts.

While the menu wasn't expansive nor healthy, as are usual requirements in my favorite restaurants, it was definitely reminiscent of a visit to grandma's house: the special being open-face roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and green beans. I had to give-in to my vegan diet and order what was printed on the menu as "The Best Grilled Cheese Ever" which was "Texas Toast" with tomato and pepper jack cheese. I had them hold the bacon. The sandwiches even came with sides I distinctly remember having so often at grandmas house: thin, oily chips with a bright green pickle. And I must say, the meal totally hit the spot and was worth breaking my diet to have the full, vintage experience at Mammy's Kitchen.

This was originally written in my journal on 11.20.12, but because Ben Howard is one of my favorite musicians, and this EP is hauntingly beautiful, I've decided to repost it on this blog since it's worthy of all audiences to hear.