I know that everyone has been waiting impatiently for a new blog from me and understandably so as it's the greatest read on the web so I'm truly sorry that I've been MIA for a few weeks now. Just been busy and a little less motivated but I promise that I'm back and better than ever.

Since I have missed four weeks, I still plan on drinking, listening, watching and eating the same number of items that I would've for Weeks 11, 12, 13 and 14 but mention all four in one blog.

Week 11-14:

Beers:
Shiner Kosmos (4.90%)
Shiner Light Blonde (4.00%)
2nd Amendment Brew Free or Die IPA (7.00%)
Lakefront Riverwest Stein Lager (5.68%)
Lakefront Eastside Dark (5.52%)
Lakefront Fuel Cafe (5.93%)
Redhook Long Hammer IPA (6.20%)
Saranac Stout (5.40%)
Key West Sunset Ale (4.80%)
Blue Moon Caramel Apple Spiced Ale (5.80%)
Henry Weinhard IPA (6.00%)
New Belgium Red Hoptober (6.00%)

Beers Already Tried From This Brewery: 
Shiner: Too many to name
2nd Amendment: None
Lakefront: If you've read this blog, you know
Redhook: ESB
Saranac: Too many to name
Key West: None
Blue Moon: Blue Moon, Harvest Pumpkin Ale, Spring Blonde Wheat Ale, Summer Ale, etc
Henry Weinhard: None
New Belgium: Blue Paddle Pilsner, Dig, Fat Tire, 1554, Shift Pale Ale, Snow Day, Somersault, Sunshine Wheat

To be honest, some of the beers that I tried, I simply don't remember anything about. Not because I was too drunk or anything, just the fact that there wasn't really anything special about them. However, I will try and write about the ones I do remember standing out.

The 2nd Amendment Brew Free or Die IPA was a very interesting beer to say the least. This was my first IPA in a can and wasn't nearly as hoppy as I expected. Not to mention, the after taste tasted like Froot Loops. Overall, a very solid beer.

The Lakefront Fuel Cafe wasn't terrible, but wasn't good either. Maybe it's because right before I had it, I had drank a Chili Beer but it just wasn't doing it for me.

Key West Sunset Ale was your standard ale. Bland but very drinkable.

Blue Moon Caramel Apple Spiced Ale was unique in that the smell was wonderful but the taste didn't live up to it. Expectations are always tempered when drinking any Blue Moon because you have to assume it's not going to wow you and this was no exception. However, this was one of the best smelling beers I've had in quite some time. You'll definitely get nodes of the spices in this one.

Henry Weinhard IPA was a pleasant surprise, seeing as how I'm not a hop head or anything. This one had great flavor and when I was drinking it, I was smoking a cigar so that actually enhanced the flavor and made it even better. Honestly, up until this past weekend, I had never even heard of the brewery. If you see this one around at the grocery store, I suggest picking up a sixer.

The most recent beer that I've tried was the new Fall beer from New Belgium called Red Hoptober. The color of this beer was a nice dark amber and the taste was okay at best. Honestly, that seems to be the theme with me and New Belgium. I don't know what it is but nothing from them seems to grab me. There always seems to be some sort of funk with their beers.

Album #1: King of the Delta Blues Singers by Robert Johnson (1936 and 1937, released in 1961)

Length: 43 Minutes, 8 Seconds

Known as the greatest blues album of all-time as well as one of the most influential albums of all-time, I knew that I had to check this out. Robert Johnson, who only lived to age 27, recorded these songs in 1936 and 1937, before passing in Mississippi a year later.

After listening to this album, I can see why it's considered to be the greatest blues album ever. I loved that because these were recorded in the 30s, it has that old school feel to it which is perfect for blues.

I'd most certainly recommend giving this album a listen, whether you like blues or not. 

Album #2: Ceremonials by Florence and the Machine (2011)
Length: 55 Minutes, 58 Seconds

After hearing "Shake It Out" on an episode of Degrassi about a month ago, I fell in love with that song. Between that and already enjoying Lungs, I figured I'd do myself the pleasure of finally getting around to listening to Florence and the Machine's most recent album, Ceremonials.

The opening track is If Only For A Night, a song about a night where Florence dreamt her grandmother, who committed suicide, spoke to her. Truly a powerful song from her voice to the lyrics.

Next was the one song I already knew, Shake It Out. Seriously, this song gives me goosebumps. Again, Florence's voice is so powerful and spine tingling.

The third song is What The Water Gave Me, which is lovely. Next is Never Let Me Go. I don't think I can mention it enough just how phenomenal her voice is. This song is beautiful. I could put this song on repeat over and over and not get tired of it.

Fifth on the album is Breaking Down. It's the shortest song on the album and the only one that comes in under 4 minutes at 3:49 and it's certainly more upbeat but enjoyable.

Sixth is Lover To Lover. I swear a heard a little "Heard It Through The Grapevine" in this song. Pretty good song. Next is No Light, No Light. Another very solid song.

Eighth on Ceremonials is Seven Devils. Deeper song than most on the album but damn good.

Next is Heartlines which was a really good song. Lyrically, it hit me. The line "Your heart is the only place that I call home" resonated with me.

With only three songs left, we have Spectrum, All This and Heaven Too, and Leave My Body. Spectrum was a pretty good song. I loved All This and Heaven Too. One of those tracks you just want to belt the lyrics to in your car. And finally, Leave My Body. Another song with powerful lyrics. It's a song about letting everything go and being at peace.

Seriously, this album was fantastic in every way possible. If you don't give this album a listen, you honestly are making a huge mistake. On that note, go listen to Lungs as well. Florence is one of the most talented singers out there.

Album #3: Grace Potter and the Nocturnals by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals (2010)
Length: 51 Minutes, 9 Seconds

A few weeks ago, sitting up at the Fox & Hound, I was sitting alone just checking out the music videos that they play on a few TVs and out of nowhere, I heard this voice that struck me. After seeing the video and it popping up who it was, it was Paris (Ooh La La) by Grace Potter & the Nocturnals.

I knew I had heard of them before because I knew a few people that liked them as well as had seen them at Memphis In May Music Fest a few months ago. I really liked the song so I decided to check out the rest of the album.

What I got with this album was a little bit of everything that all hit me right. Grace Potter's vocals are mind blowingly good.

Paris (Ooh La La) started off the album exactly how it should've. Upbeat, sexy, soulful. Next up is Oasis, a song slower than the one before but still smooth. The end of the song ends with a nice guitar riff. Her voice is eerily similar to Janis Joplin on this track.

The third song is Medicine, a song that picks it back up. I definitely dug this song. Next is Goodbye Kiss. This song has a nice, slow groove with some twang behind it . One of my favorites on the album. Makes me want to drive around and belt it (much like most of the album).

The fifth song on the album is Tiny Light. I think Grace's voice shines brighter on this song that any of the others, which says alot. The last two minutes of this song is has a badass solo along with her intense wails. Another of my favorites without question.

Sixth on the album is Colors, the slowest song on the album. It's a beautiful song. Next is Only Love, an upbeat song with a ton of soul.

Eighth is Money, probably the weakest track on the album, atleast lyrically. However, her voice is still damn good. Ninth is One Short Night, a poppier song that is nice. Low Road is the tenth track and one of my favorites. It sounds similar to Norah Jones to me. Slow, smooth, sexy.

The last three songs on the album are That Phone, Hot Summer Night and Things That I Needed. That Phone is a good song, but nothing special. Hot Summer Night has some sweet guitar riffs and her voice is fantastic, as usual. The last song on the album is Things That I Needed. The song is incredibly slow, twangy and beautiful. The lyrics on this are my favorite on this album like: I don't want to be the one who lets you down/All I did was run myself around/I wish I could have seen through your eyes/Maybe then I would have realized/I'm the only one who's bleeding/For the things I never needed

Overall, this album is simply fantastic and I'd recommend this to anyone. Her voice is powerful and soulful and the guitar goes wonderfully with it. Definitely check it out at some point.

Album #4: In the Aeroplane Over the Sea by Neutral Milk Hotel (1998)
Length: 39 Minutes, 51 Seconds

Going into the fourth album, I knew I wanted it to be considered one of the best in whatever genre it was so I decided to look up what people thought the best indie album of all-time was. Most lists that I had read put In The Aeroplane Over the Sea by Neutral Milk Hotel as the greatest indie album so that's ultimately what made my decision. I actually had heard of them from a friend who had actually done a cover of Oh Comely.

For this review, I won't break it down song by song but I have to say that I really liked this album. It scratched my right where I was itching.

In the Aeroplane Over the Sea oddly enough was highly influenced by The Diary of Anne Frank, which lead singer and guitarist, Jeff Mangum read before writing this album. While not a biography per say, you can definitely grasp that while listening to the lyrics.

In Oh Comely, the line I know they buried her body with others/Her sister and mother and 500 families/And will she remember me 50 years later/I wished I could save her in some sort of time machine/Know all your enemies/We know who our enemies are clearly is about Anne Frank.

One thing I love about this album is the use of horns throughout the album. It reminds me of the band Typhoon.

I honestly don't think this album is for everyone but I'd still suggest everyone listen to it.

Movie #1: Caddyshack (1980)

Length: 1 Hour, 38 Minutes

Main Cast: Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, Bill Murray, Ted Knight

Once I heard Kenny Loggins' "I'm Alright" play, I knew this movie was going to be a classic one.

From Bill Murray's varmit hunting to Rodney Dangerfield obnoxiously wonderful character to Chevy Chase being awesome, this movie was fantastic.

Of course, having a little eye candy in Cindy Morgan didn't hurt during the movie either.

One of my favorite parts is when Dangerfield hits the ball and yells four and it hits Ted Knight's character straight in his nether region and Rodney yells "I should've yelled two."

I'd assume most people have seen this movie but if you haven't, it's a must see.

Movie #2: Forrest Gump (1994)
Length: 2 Hours, 21 Minutes
Main Cast: Tom Hanks, Sally Field, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise

Eighteen years. That's how long it took me from the time this movie came out until the time I saw it. Seems ridiculous, doesn't it? The weirdest part of it all is I really had no idea what it was even about. I had heard all the many quotes that came from this film but never actually thought to question the plot.

After seeing this film, the story was definitely not what I was expecting.

My first thought into the movie was how quickly the line about the box of chocolates was. Normally something that quoted so much is atleast somewhere further into the movie.

Throughout the movie, I absolutely loved the fact they had real life events happening within the confines of the story. Everything from the Presidents, to Bear Bryant of Alabama to war to inventions done. For me, that really added to the movie.

The story between Forrest and Jenny was a beautiful one, although at times a tumultuous one, because of her issues with drugs, etc. Despite all of that, Forrest still loved her and never wavered.

Another part of this movie I loved was the soundtrack. They had some fantastic classic tunes that fit right in with the times throughout the movie. Not only that but the score near the end of the film was wonderful as well.

Overall, I liked this movie. It wouldn't be my favorite movie ever and I'm not sure I'd even go out of my way to watch it again but that doesn't take away from a well written story with fantastic acting by Tom Hanks.

Movie #3: Clerks (1994)
Length: 1 Hour, 43 Minutes
Main Cast: Brian O'Halloran, Jeff Anderson, Jason Mewes, Kevin Smith, Marilyn Ghigliotti, Lisa Spoonhauer

Hockey on the roof. Selling cigarettes to a four year old. Knocking over a casket. Having sex with a dead guy. In no other movie could you find those three things, except Clerks.

While I know some people thought I made the huge mistake of seeing Clerks 2 before Clerks, which I did many years ago, it didn't make me appreciate the hilarity of this movie any less.

For me, Jason Mewes character was my favorite. Some of the lines he said throughout the movie was hilarious.

The only downside to this movie compared to Clerks 2 is no Rosario Dawson and dancing on the roof to the Jackson 5.

Obviously, this is a must see movie for anyone that isn't completely offended by filth humor.

Movie #4: This Is Spinal Tap (1998)
Length: 1 Hour, 22 Minutes
Main Cast: Rob Reiner, Michael McKeen, Christopher Guest, Fran Drescher, Fred Willard

Somehow I just wish that I could turn this blog up to eleven.

This was my first mockumentary I've ever watched and I can't imagine it getting better than that. At times, you completely forget that it is one because of how ridiculous metal, hair metal especially, was back in the day. Rob Reiner nailed this perfectly.

Seriously, there are too many classic quotes in this movie to count. If you haven't seen this movie, absolutely see it. You won't regret it!

 

Food #1: Bratwurst with mustard on a hoagie bun

While tailgating at the University of Memphis first football game of the year, one of my buddies happened to have some brats and so I decided to try them. Seems strange that I'd never had one before but that could be said for many things. After biting into it, I regretted having never tried one before. It was so much freaking better than a hot dog, it wasn't even close.

Hopefully this football season, I'll be able to grill out some cheddar brats, as I've heard those were delicious.

Food #2: Smoked Bacon and Calabrese from Bluefin (Downtown Memphis)

Having been to Bluefin twice before and getting salmon the first time and chicken the second time, I knew I wanted to get something that I wasn't sure about. What I ended up getting probably isn't some crazy dish but certainly new to me.

I got the Smoked Bacon and Calabrese which was plum tomato sauce, spicy Italian salami, Italian sausage and mozerella cheese on a flatbread dough. Basically, it was a fancy way of saying thin crust pizza but alas, still new.

While I'm not a huge fan of anything that's crispy, I still enjoyed this. The toppings and cheese were delicious and would definitely try again. However, the next time I'm there, I'll get something new.

Food #3: Krispy Kreme Doughnut With Papa John's Chickenstrips With Garlic Sauce (Cordova)

Your first thought is mostly WTF, that's gross! Well to be honest, I felt the same way. Seriously, a glazed doughnut with chickenstrips topped off with garlic sauce. Sounds gross as hell.

However, you'd be wrong. This crazy mess of a meal was delicious. The sweetness of the doughnut went perfect with the garlic sauce. They truly complimented each other so well.

If not for my wonderful, deviant friends who came up with this idea, I'd never have tried it. Thank God for Monday nights!

Food #4: Steak Au Poivre with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes from Firebirds (Collierville)

You're probably asking yourself "Was that as delicious as it looked?" and the answer would be a resounding "YES!"

On my way into work, I was driving around looking for a place to eat and most of the restaurants didn't open til 4pm but Firebirds happened to be open from 11am til close so I went in there. There were a few things on the menu that struck me but none more than the Steak Au Poivre.

Basically it's sirloin steak sliced up and topped with a peppercorn brandy sauce. It also came with Parmesan mashed potatoes. Seriously, one of the best things I've eaten in a while. The peppercorn sauce went perfectly with the steak as well as the mashed potatoes.

Combine the deliciousness of this meal with how great the weather felt outside (sat on the patio, as pictured), it couldn't have been better.

If you have a Firebirds near you, I'd suggest you go and try this little slice of heaven.

Week 10: 

Note: I do apologize for the delay this week, it's been a little more hectic than normal. This write-up will be very short but I promise, it's not a trend. Thanks again for everyone who reads this, I truly do appreciate it more than you'll ever know.

Beer (ABV): 

Lakefront Organic ESB (5.42%)

Lakefront Wheat Monkey (4.2%)

Lakefront IPA (6.9%)

Harpoon Belgium Pale Ale (5.8%)

Beers Already Tried From This Brewery: 

Lakefront (Wisconsinite Summer Weiss, Kilsch Pilsner)

Harpoon (Winter Warmer, Celtic Ale, Hefeweizen, Raspberry Hefeweizen, etc)

I have to say, nothing really wowed me this week with the beers. Surprisingly, the one I enjoyed more than the others was the Lakefront IPA. It had some good flavor to it and wasn't overly hoppy. The Wheat Monkey was more bland that a Coors Light frankly. The other two were just meh.

Album: The Rescue by Explosions In The Sky (2005)

Length: 32 Minutes, 48 Seconds

Already being a huge fan of Explosions In The Sky, I realized there were a few albums I hadn't checked out so I decided to check out The Rescue. The Rescue is a concept album of sorts.

Back in 2005, while on tour, their van broke down and they had to wait eight days in order to get it fixed, which is where they got the eight title tracks from (Day One through Day Eight).

If you didn't already known, Explosions In The Sky is an instrumental band that has no lyrics. With that in mind, it's a little more difficult to break it down by song so I'll just say that while not as good as the Friday Night Lights soundtrack or The Earth Is Not A Cold Dead Place, this was a very good album and I'd suggest everyone give it atleast one listen.

Movie: To The Arctic/Tornado Alley (IMAX)

Length: 40 Minutes each

Main Cast: Narrated by Meryl Streep/Bill Paxton

I have no idea the last time I saw an IMAX film so when I decided to go see these two, I was very excited. The screen was even bigger than I remember it. Just absolutely massive.

I have to say, both of these films definitely had their positives but did also have a negative as well.

With To The Arctic, you start off with a beautiful footage panning over glaciers and the waterfalls. Being on the IMAX screen, it looked simply stunning. Throughout the whole movie, it was just fantastic. Getting to follow polar bears, which by the way I'd like to see about adopting one because they are so freaking cute, was really cool. You get to see a mother bear protect her young from being hunted, which was nice to see.

My only negative with To The Arctic was that it was clearly trying to push Global Warming/Climate Change throughout it. I'm not here to argue on either side of it but it just wasn't what I was anticipating. I guess I just wanted forty minutes of something pretty to look at.

Despite that, I'd still suggest you go see this.

With Tornado Alley, I was simply giddy. As most of you know, I'm a huge severe weather/tornado nut so this was right down my alley, no pun intended.

Right off the bat, I was excited because who else other than Bill Paxton was narrating this film. If you didn't know, he was the main male casted in the movie Twister, so it seemed fitting to say the least.

Throughout this movie, you get to follow two different people. The first is a group that is trying to collect data, much like in Twister and the other guy is trying to get in the middle of a tornado. He built this tank that can withstand wind speeds up to 200mph. Really impressive.

Like To The Arctic, it did have a negative and that was it ended very anti-climactically. The movie ended with him getting inside a tornado but it never felt like it happened. I guessed I expected it to look different but once it was over, I was like...that's it?

Overall, I still felt both films definitely had more positives and are worth going to see.

Food: John Deere Snowcone Supreme from Jerry's Snow Cones (Nut Bush)

Yedoro Key Wot from Abyssinia (Midtown/East Memphis)


Without question, the most interesting week of food that I've tried to date and probably will try.

As my friends and I look for the list of Top 100 places in Memphis to eat, we came across two items at Jerry's Sno Cones in Nut Bush, which is hardly the best part of town. The two sno cones are Wedding Cake and John Deere.

When I placed my order, I noticed everyone was ordering a sno cone and saying "Supreme", which I thought was the size. After ordering my John Deere Supreme, I realized size was hardly what it meant. Supreme, in fact, meant that it had soft serve vanilla ice cream in the cup. For those that have known me long enough, I have never tried ice cream in my life (as well as cake, pies, cupcakes, sundaes, pudding, etc) so if I decided to eat my ordering gaffe, this would be HUGE.

After hesistating, I finally took my first bite. Needless to say, it wasn't as awful as I was thinking it would be. The texture wasn't bad however I didn't like the flavor. I think that has more to do with my not liking anything vanilla.

After Jerry's, we headed into town to go to an Ethiopian restaurant called Abyssinia.

I decided to order the Yedoro Key Wot, which is chicken stew on flatbread. The sponginess of the flatbread was very weird to me but the chicken was okay. Too much stew for me to enjoy the chicken itself. By the way, I forgot to take a picture while I was there so that's the closest I could find to what I had, minus the eggs.

I also got to try some cabbage for the first time, which was pretty tasty actually.

Overall, I'm glad I experienced Ethiopian but I'm certainly in no rush to do it again soon.

Also Tried: Guacamole at Fox & Hound

Week 9: 

Beers (ABV):
Rodenbach Classic (5.2%)
Samuel Smith Organic Apricot (5.1%)
Bear Republic/Fat Head's/Stone TBA (7.1%)
 Smuttynose IPA (6.9%)
Westbrook Citrus Ninja Exchange (8.9%)

Beers Already Tried From This Brewery: 
Rodenbach (none)
Samuel Smith (Organic Cider, Organic Cherry, Organic Raspberry, Organic Strawberry, IPA, Pale Ale, Pure Lager, Imperial Stout, Nut Brown Ale, Oatmeal Stout, Taddy Porter)
Bear Republic/Fat Head's/Stone (none)
Smuttynose (none)
Westbrook (none)

Another Sunday night at the Flying Saucer where I decided to get one of my blog beers knocked out and the Rodenbach Classic is the beer of choice. It was Flanders red ale which is a sour beer. This beer poured a darker amber color and had slight hint of cherry flavor with a huge tart flavor. I actually was a bit nervous to try this beer after the smell because it was overwhelmingly sour.

However, after tasting this beer, the bark was definitely bigger than the bite. Despite that it took quite a bit of time to drink, I thoroughly enjoyed this beer. Certainly not a session beer by any means but I would most definitely recommend this to anyone.

After thinking that my week of trying new beers was over, my friend surprised me with a few more to try that he got while on his trip to South Carolina.

The first beer of these was the Smuttynose IPA. My friend considered this to be one of his favorite IPA's ever, which is tall order. However, I'm not as big a fan of IPA's in general and this didn't change my mind. While not a terrible beer, it didn't wow me either. Clearly, it's the style and not the beer itself.

Next we tried a beer that is combined from three breweries (Bear Republic, Fat Head and Stone). This was such an interesting beer. Initially, the aroma and flavor came across hoppy but threw a curve ball and ended up like a brown ale. Certainly one of the more unique beers I've tried so far.

After that, we tried the Westbrook Citrus Ninja Exchange. I got very excited for this one because of the citrus but after first taste, I did not enjoy this one at all. All I could taste was the alcohol. At 8.9%, I'm honestly not surprised.

Thankfully, to wrap up the evening, we tried the Samuel Smith Organic Apricot which I had a feeling I was going to enjoy very much. Easily the best Apricot beer I've ever tried and very well could've been the best Samuel Smith beer that I've tried as well. 

Album: Millennium by Backstreet Boys (1999)

Length: 48 Minutes, 11 Seconds

I honestly have to say, I have no idea why I decided to go with this album. I guess it's just another example of getting out of my comfort zone and trying to take in as many different types of music and different eras.

When the boy band phase was taking over the world, I guess I had recently become a teenager and so as a male, it was very natural to immediately hate any of this kind of music, especially since it was so incredibly popular. With that in mind, I decided to go into this with a very open mind. Afterall, it is the 20th most selling album in history with 30 million copies sold.

The first three songs on this album (Larger Than Life, I Want It That Way, and Show Me The Meaning of Being Lonely) are all huge hits and unless you weren't born until 2000 or lived under a rock, you've heard of these songs. Of these three, clearly I Want It That Way is my favorite. Easy to sing along and yes, I did.

Next song on Millennium is It's Gotta Be You. It's the shortest song on the album, just under 3 minutes, and it certainly felt like it. It was upbeat and went by quickly. Not terrible.

Song number 5 on the album is I Need You Tonight. I actually have to say that I really, really enjoyed this song. It's a slow song and it's pretty. Song number 6 is Don't Want You Back. Pretty catchy song. Typical boy band pop music.

Don't Want To Lose You Now is the next song on the album. Pretty bland song. Definitely forgettable. The next song after is The One. This song was much better than the previous one. After that one, there was another slower song with Back To Your Heart. This song just screamed what they'd played at a middle school dance where the couple is arms length apart swaying back in forth.

With only three songs left, we have Spanish Eyes. Honestly, I kind of zoned out on this song. Clearly didn't wow me. Second to last song on the album is No One Else Comes Close. I'm kind of surprised this wasn't a hit. Even though it's slower, I could certainly see it getting radio play.

Lastly, we've got The Perfect Fan. Apparently this song was written for one of the band members mothers. It's a cute song.

Overall, this album is about what I expected. Some catchy stuff, some duds, some average songs but I completely see why girls flocked to this. Five guys with voices like these singing songs like these, it makes complete sense.

Movie: The Big Lebowski (1998)

Length: 1 Hour, 59 Minutes

Main Cast: Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Julienne Moore, Steve Buscemi, Tara Reid

That was fucking amazing.

That was the first words I said outloud as the credits started to roll. I want to kick my own ass for waiting 14 years to see that movie.

Seriously, every single part of this movie was hilarious. Dude, Walter, Donnie, Jesus...all so damn good.

It's hard to decide which is my favorite scene, whether it being the Jesus scene or the scattering ashes scene.

I'd assume most people that will read this have already seen this movie but if you haven't, GO WATCH IT NOW! After last weeks lame movie choice, it was so good to have something I truly enjoyed and will most definitely watch again (and again).

Food: Chicken Salad Sandwich and Deathrow Pimento Cheese from Young Avenue Deli (Midtown)

Another Monday in which we went looking for the list and Young Avenue Deli at Cooper and Young became the choice for the week.

In similar fashion to the week I went to Half Shell, I wasn't sure exactly what I was going to get going in. Also in similar fashion is how it turned out, by splitting two meals in half so we could try multiple items.

The item that my friend decided on was the Chicken Salad Sandwich, pictured on the right, which had chicken salad, tomato and lettuce. I enjoyed this okay, nothing great though and I probably wouldn't have it again. Honestly, I didn't even finish my half because I also had my other sandwich as well as an order of cheese fries, which were amazing as usual.

The item that I ordered was the Deathrow Pimento Cheese. I had no idea what I was getting into when I ordered this but went for it anyways. Oh my goodness, was this sandwich delicious! After the first bite, I knew I was in love. Biting into this sandwich gave me the same feeling and taste that I get when I eat an entire block of Colby cheese. It was so cheesy and wonderful. Simply made my tastebuds happy.

Overall, this trip was successful and I'll certainly be going back for more Pimento Cheese, as well as their cheese fries. Healthy, huh?

Week 8: 

Beer(s) and ABV: Gouden Carolus Ambrio (8%)

Blue Point Blueberry Ale (4.6%)

Lakefront Wisconsinite Summer Weiss (4.2%)

Lakefront Klisch Pilsner (5.42%)

Beers Already Tried From This Brewery: None from any of them

I know, I'm only supposed to try one beer a week and write about it but I can't help it lately, I just want to keep trying as many new brews as I can. 

This week, I managed to crack open four new ones. The first that I tried, I got at the Flying Saucer in Cordova, also known as my second home and it was the Gouden Carolus Ambrio. It poured a dark amber color and smelled of cherries. After first sip, I noticed the cherries but sadly, tasted more alcohol than flavor. Not a terrible beer but also not great, especially for the price. Still glad I tried it. 

The next three beers actually came from a buddy who recently went to Florida and brought them back. The first of those was the Lakefront Wisconsinite Summer Weiss. Pretty typical Weiss beer, solid and very refreshing. Definitely a session beer in my mind. 

The next beer was the Lakefront Klisch Pilsner. Again, like the first Lakefront, solid beer. Nothing that will wow you but could drink it all night. 

Lastly, we had the Blue Point Blueberry Ale. To me, this was a slightly weaker version of Saranac Blueberry Blonde Ale, which is not a bad thing. The blueberry flavor wasn't overwhelming like you'd get with a Sea Dog Blueberry or even Sweetwater Blue, which is something I like. Just like the last two, would drink plenty of this all night. 

Album: Yourself or Someone Like You by Matchbox 20 (1996)

Length: 46 Minutes, 43 Seconds

While maybe not a classic album in most top albums list, this is widely considered to be Matchbox 20's best album and certainly best selling album. With Matchbox 20 coming out with a new album called North in September and me loving their incredibly catchy first single off that album titled She's So Mean, I decided to go back in time and check out this album.

Matchbox 20 is very similiar to Fiona Apple in that despite being around since 1996, they've only released a handful of albums (M20 with 5; Fiona Apple with 4).

Yourself or Someone Like You has atleast 3 or 4 songs that I guarantee you've heard on the radio at someone point, including the first song on the album, Real World. Incredibly catchy song, hard to imagine someone that grew up during the 90s not knowing this one. Next song after this was Long Day, a song I hadn't heard before but was solid.

The next two songs are probably ones you've heard before as well in 3am and Push. Catchy as hell, typical 90s music in my mind.

After that, Girl Like That and Back 2 Good were the following two songs. Girl Like That was a new one to me, it was okay. Back 2 Good is a song that is slower but one that some would remember. I feel like this one had some airplay back in the day. From here, the remaining six songs are songs that I'd not heard going into this listen.

Next song is Damn and it certainly picked up the tempo from Back 2 Good. If I looked up the lyrics, I definitely would've sung along. The shortest song on the album, Argue, clocks in at 2 minutes and 57 seconds. Despite the shortness, it was another solid song. Much like the rest so far, a catchy tune that with a few more listens would be even more fun to sing along to.

After those two more upbeat songs, we slowed the tempo again with Kody. Paying more closely to the lyrics on this one, it's about dealing with depression after someone close to you commits suicide. Very good song.

With the next song, Busted, Thomas' vocals got much grittier than the rest of the album. Quite a nice change of pace even though I wouldn't consider this one of my favorites off the album.

The final two songs on the album are Shame and Hang. While Shame was nothing special, Hang was really really good. Probably my favorite song that I didn't know going into this album. It was a slower song and really good lyrics.

Overall, I'm thrilled I listened to this album. I guess I never realized how much I actually liked Rob Thomas' voice and how well it goes with the music of Matchbox 20. I would absolutely recommend this album if you like any of the songs you've previously heard (Real World, 3am, Push and Back 2 Good)

Movie: Napoleon Dynamite (2004) 

Length: 1 Hour, 35 Minutes

Main Cast: Jon Heder, Jon Gries, Efren Ramirez, Tina Majorino

I think out of all the weeks that I've been doing this blog, I picked a movie that couldn't have been any more divisive. From some people, they loved this movie. For many others, they absolutely hated. It never seemed as if there was any middle ground with Napoleon Dynamite. 

When it came out back in 2004, my preconceived notion was that it sucked, hands down. It got overhyped, overquoted and I naturally didn't like it, despite the fact that I hadn't seen it. 

I think that's the main reason why I went with this movie over Forrest Gump and Batman Begins is because I wanted to get even more out of my shell and pick a movie that not only I hadn't seen but actually had no plans of seeing and had judged without even having seen the movie. 

It didn't take long into this movie to see why some loved it and others hated it. The incredibly dry sense of humor had me chuckle at a few lines but I have to say that this movie did nothing for me in the slightest. 

The plot was pointless and many times I caught myself thinking "When it this going to end?"

The best part of the movie was near the end when Napolean was dancing on stage. Outside of that and a few lines, this movie was not a good movie in my opinion. 

I'd say if you're looking for a comedy to watch, stay clear of this one unless you absolutely love dry as a desert humor. However, if you haven't seen it, I'd suggest watching it just so you can have your own valid opinion as I know can have. Then you aren't like me circa 2004 and judge something blindly.

Food: World Famous Huey Burger with Black Bean Patty (Collierville)

With this week being a little hectic between my alternator catching on fire and just staying busy, my food choice for week 8 became one that was kind of on the fly so bare with me.

After hearing about how great Huey's burgers are, I decided to go with one. I've never actually had one so by-passing the standard beef patty for the black bean was a pretty huge step. I actually called in the order to-go because I was running short on time (hence not the best picture) and ended up eating in the Papa John's dine in.

What I ordered on the black bean burger was cheddar cheese, mayo and lettuce. Assuming the texture of the patty was similar to one of beef, I took a nice hearty bite into it. I immediately regretted that decision as I almost gagged on it. What I tasted was not what I expected in the slightest. The texture was very soft and clearly tasted of beans.

Honestly, I was only able to eat about half of the burger because of how much I disliked it. I know many people that love the black bean burger so I'm not going to tell you that it's awful. I think I just came to realize that unless it's baked beans, I'm just not a fan of beans. Atleast a big step for me was trying mayonaise from another restaurant. I've always been a strict "Hellmans only" kind of guy so I still feel like that was a small victory. 

Week 7: 

Beer(s): Saranac High Peaks Lemon Ginger Saison & Woodchuck Private Reserve Ginger

ABV: 8.5% - 6.9%

Beers Already Tried From This Brewery: Too many to mention from both

This is going to be a pretty simple week to write about these beers. Neither of them were very good. Plain and simple.

With the first beer, the Saranac High Peaks Lemon Ginger Saison, I had high hopes for. I was looking for a beer with alot of flavor and yet all I got was alot of alcohol. It just did not make for an enjoyable drinking experience. And as it got warmer, it just got worse. To be honest, I had to pour it out half way through (yes, I know) but I couldn't stomach this beer.

As for the other beer, Woodchuck Private Reserve Ginger, again I had high hopes for simply because it was from the Private Reserve collection. However, I was let down. Not because it was a foul tasting beer but because it was just another Woodchuck. There really wasn't much Ginger flavor to this one. Just typical Woodchuck Cider that people are used to.

Album: Straight Outta Compton by N.W.A. (1988)

Length: 60 Minutes, 27 Seconds

You're probably looking at this selection as the WTF moment of the blog so far and you'd be completely right. I have absolutely no idea why I decided to go for this album but I did. I guess I just wanted to really expand my horizons in a big way.

I've never listened to a full rap album before so I figured if there was any rap album worth listening to, it would be Straight Outta Compton by N.W.A.

From the moment I pressed play, I felt like I was in South Central LA in the late 80s. All I was missing was a flat billed hat and a Starter jacket.

To be completely honest, the music was pretty cool. It had some cool beats and even some light guitar in the background. Obviously, the lyrics from start to finish are everything you can imagine. The standout lyric for me came from Parental Discretion Iz Advised that made me double take...

"To you it may be funny, but
there's no service of beef, without money
So slip the C-note, and you can choke
on a wing-ding-ding-a-ling down your throat
Foreplay; to me ain't shit
When you spread 'em I'm ready, then you can get the dick
of the Eaze, if you can deal with the size
But if you can't, parental discretion's advised!"

Seriously, ding-a-ling? Once I heard that, I couldn't help but laugh outloud.

It's crazy to think Ice Cube has gone from this to Friday movies to Coors Light commercials.

I don't know if I'd ever listen to this album again but I'm certainly glad that I did.

Movie: A Bug's Life (1998)

Length: 1 Hour, 35 Minutes

Main Cast: Dave Foley, Kevin Spacey, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Hayden Panettiere, Denis Leary

I have to say, going 14 years without seeing a Pixar film is simply unacceptable.

I don't know if it was the idea of bugs and not thinking it would be good or entertaining but nothing ever motivated me to go out of my way to see this film, despite it being from Pixar and I absolutely love everything they do.

Shockingly enough, not one time did I say "Damn you Pixar" which I so often do because of their ability to tug at your heart strings. However, this was a very well done movie. I don't think I've laughed as hard as a Pixar film as this. Just a lot of funny moments to me.

While she was no Boo from Monsters Inc, Pixar created an adorable young bug in Dot. One of my favorites as well as Denis Leary playing the male Ladybug.

I'm really glad I watched this. Is it my favorite Pixar film? Nope. It wouldn't be at my bottom either. Just another good plot from a company with a flawless record. Now all I have to do is see Cars 2 and I'll have seen them all.

Food: Old Fashioned Monte Cristo and The Fat Boy from Half Shell (Memphis)

Another week, another great food selection. Either I'm getting lucky picking out good food or my taste buds have stopped being so damn picky.

With another Monday night to try and find food, my buddies and I have decided to start looking at two lists, one from The Commercial Appeal and the other from the I Love Memphis Blog, of the Top 100 Foods to Try in Memphis and go from there.

With this week, we all decided we would go to Half Shell at Poplar and Mendenhall to try their Old Fashioned Monte Cristo since it was on the list. I decided to split that with one of my friends while getting another meal to split as well, that way we could both try two items.

After having not eaten all day, I was incredibly hungry. I got my order, split it up and dug in.

Holy cow, was the Monte Cristo something great. It is an egg battered sandwich with pit smoked ham, hickory smoked turkey, provolone cheese and dusted with powdered sugar that was all sorts of heaven. I've never really tried honey mustard before so I had to dip it and again, just fantastic. I can't wait to go back and try this again.

As for the other part of my dinner, I got to have The Fat Boy. This Po Boy included Blackened Shrimp, Fried Crawfish Tails and Fried Oysters. Having never had either of the last two, I was slightly nervous as to how this would taste. Just like everything else I have been missing in my life, this was phenomenal. To me, I liked this even more than the Monte Cristo, which I thought very highly of.

It came with a remoulade sauce (pictured top left) that was to die for. I slathered that on The Fat Boy and went to town.

Seriously, this may have been my favorite week for trying a new food that I've had so far. I seriously can't wait to go back. 

Week 6: 

Beers (ABV): Goose Island Matilda (7%)
Bells Oberon (5.8%)
Dark Horse Raspberry (5.5%)
Half Acre Daisy Cutter Pale Ale (5.2%)
Houblon Chouffe Dobbelin IPA Tripel (9%)
Ommegang Rare Vos (6.5%)
Timmermans Framboise (4.5%)
Lucky Bucket Heartland Wheat (4.8%)
Michelob Ultra 19th Hole Tea & Lemonade (4%)
Saranac Single Malt (5.5%)

Beers Already Tried From This Brewery: 
Goose Island (312 Urban Wheat, Nut Brown Ale, Honkers Ale)
Bells (none)
Dark Horse (none)
Half Acre (none)
La Chouffe (none)

Ommegang (Abbey Ale, Hennepin Farmhouse Saison)
Timmermans (none)
Lucky Bucket (IPA, Lager)
Michelob (Ultra, Dragon Fruit Peach, Lime Cactus, Pomegranate Raspberry)
Saranac (too many to mention)

Who doesn't love to go on vacation? Some go for a much needed getaway, to see old friends, to meet new ones, whatever. For me, it was all of the above plus the idea of trying many new beers that I simply can't get here at home.

With that in mind, this week for beer will be slightly different. It's got a list of nine different beers I tried, four of which I got while I got in Chicago. The write up will be shorter but you'll still get my opinion. Here goes.

When I first arrived, we stopped off at Miller's Pub. Rissa had been wanting me to try the Half Acre Daisy Cutter and so I did. It was okay, nothing terrible but nothing great either. Had some hops to it, which I'm not generally a huge fan of anyways.

Next, we went to Rock's in Wrigleyville. I got to try the Dark Horse Raspberry out on the patio and it was very refreshing. A typical fruit ale and would definitely have it as a session beer. Then inside, I got to try Bell's Oberon and Goose Island Matilda, both on tap. These were two fantastic beers! Goose Island had never wowed me before but the Maltida might be one of my all time favorites now. From everything I've heard, Bell's is a solid brewery all around so I'm looking forward to trying some other ones at some point.

The next night, we went back to Miller's Pub and I got to try the Houblon Chouffe Dobbelin IPA Tripel. Despite that I said earlier than I'm not a huge fan of hops, this beer was incredibly well done. You know it's a highly thought of when the BeerAdvocate Bros. rate this one a 98. An absolute must try if you get around to it. Thanks to Angus from Eastern Canada for getting this one for me while chatting it up at the bar! 

After getting back home, I had a few other new brews. First the good with Michelob Ultra Light Tea and Lemonade. Basically this was Nestea with Lemon with zero alcohol flavor. You could sit back and drink 20 of these without even thinking.

Now the bad with Lucky Bucket Heartland Wheat. Seriously, I think these assholes use piss for water in their beer. I've tried two other styles and they are both some of the worst tasting beers I've ever tried. If you ever come across the IPA, run away. I don't care if someone at the bar is buying a round of that, do not drink it. While the wheat isn't as bad, it just isn't pleasant. And that's saying alot for wheat beer.

The last of the night ended up being Saranac Single Malt. Honestly, I don't really have much of an opinion on this one. Kinda meh.

The last two new brews that I tried this week happened on my birthday during my Flying Saucer plate party ($150 free bar tab). I tried the Timmerman's Framboise seeing as how much I love Lindeman's Framboise. The Timmerman's was pretty good, just not as good as Lindeman's. Of course, drinking out of the slender fancy glass at a bar is always fun too.

Lastly, I got to try the Ommegang Rare Vos, another beer that got a 98 from the Brothers of BeerAdvocate. The rating definitely matches the beer. Very, very good beer. 

Album: The Lateness of the Hour by Alex Clare (2011)

Length: 46 Minutes, 19 Seconds

After going up to Chicago and listening to the radio, I've decided that I really really love the song Too Close by Alex Clare. Some of you may have heard it on the radio, some perhaps on the newest Internet Explorer 9 commercial, but it's wonderful. I sing it constantly in my car when it comes on.

I decided to pick this album because odds are that we may not hear another song of his on the radio so I figured I'd dig a little deeper to find out if he's a one-hit wonder kind of guy or if he's got some real talent.

Looking at a few reviews first to see what I was going to expect, I saw mixed reviews. The different styles on this album included dub step, soul, alternative rock, and R&B.

After going through this album, clearly he's got tons of talent. The real question involved is whether or not all the styles on this album really fit well. As in Too Close, you hear light dub step where others on this album it's just oddly placed. Some songs, there isn't any crazy bassline.

The 5th song on the album is actually a cover of Prince's "When Doves Cry" with some insane bassline, especially for that song. I had mixed feelings about that one. One song that stuck out with me is Hands Are Clever (video below), a song with a ton of soul. If that song doesn't make you want to get up and dance, I don't know what would.

With my mixed feelings on this, I'll certainly be giving this album a second listen to see how I feel. As for you, I'd give this album a shot if you like Too Close at all. 

Movie: The Notebook (2004)

Length: 2 Hours, 3 Minutes

Main Cast: Ryan Gossling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner, Gena Rowlands


I knew for week 6 that I wanted a movie that would tug on the heart strings. What I got with The Notebook was way beyond that. This hit me at my very core.

This was a movie that was simply beautiful. A story of love that is pure and unconditional. Love isn't easy but no matter what you make it work. Not because you have to but because you want to. You sacrifice, you hurt, you laugh, you feel, you cry, and in the end it's all worth it. With a love like that, you can do anything. In the end, it's you and them. Nothing else in the world matters.

You can even be apart for days, weeks, months or years but your heart forever beats for them. Others may come and go but you still breathe for them. That's hard to find and when you do, you want to do your damnedest not to let them go. You see that so clearly between Noah and Allie.

The idea that there can be love so strong that it can last to the very end should give the world hope.

To me, this was the greatest love story that I've ever seen to date. Seeing the paralells of a young Noah and Allie lying in the street to them at the end lying next to each other in the bed was wonderfully done. The last thing Noah said was "I'll be seeing you." couldn't have been more perfect. From that moment, I had tears rolling down my cheek.

The acting was top notch and the plot was absolutely perfect. For those that haven't seen this movie, please do so. Don't be like me and shrug it off as some lame chick flick or love story.  Don't be afraid to let this movie touch you.

Food: Big Al's Italian Beef with Provolone and Giadiniera

I don't know if it was the fact that it was 1am, the alcohol or just the idea of trying something new, all of the above but whatever the case, this sandwich had me giddy and laughing while eating it (as Amanda can attest to).

After trying to find places to eat via Urbanspoon, we decided upon Portillos Hotdogs. However, the ended up being closed so we came across Big Al's Italian Beef. I've never had anything like this before so it was a perfect time to try something for the blog.

What happened next might be the first time I've ever done this in my life. I asked the guy what his favorite sandwich was and without caring what it had on it, I was going to try it.

What he told me ended up being Italian beef with provolone cheese and homemade hot giadiniera. As someone who has never had provolone cheese and certainly doesn't handle hot very well (as Amanda can also attest too), I was slightly nervous. However, thanks to the liquid courage, I got over that in a hurry.

After taking my first bite, I loved it. Despite the very hot giadiniera, it had great flavor. The beef was tender and juicy. It was quite a mess to eat but wonderful. If you're ever in the Chicago area, I would certainly advise trying this sandwich atleast once.