Joshua P. Simon - The Accidental Author

I’ve already done a post about good cover songs (something that doesn’t happen often). Below are examples of bad covers, in my opinion. What makes these more disappointing is that the four videos below are some of my favorite bands/artists. I’m sure I can think of a lot more than what I’ve listed, but this is a good place to start.

Judas Priest – Johnny B. Goode


Motorhead – Louie Louie


Megadeth – No More Mr. Nice Guy


Elvis Presley – Tutti Frutti


Any suggestions to add to the above?

After a long, tiring, stress-filled week, I need something to laugh at. So behold, The Swedish Chef!

My wife and I were watching these with our kids the other day, cracking up more than they were. Oddly enough, my 14 month old was more into the videos (giggling a good bit), than my 3 year old who mostly asked A LOT of questions. “What is he saying? “What is he doing?” “Why is he shaking that tree?”

Those with kids know what I’m talking about.





twh the

There are several gems on Judas Priest’s first album that many forget about. The title track is actually one of my 3 year old son’s favorite songs. (Woot!)

Rocka Rolla (title track)


…And my favorite on the album

Cheater (A song like this really makes wish Priest would make a bluesy/hard rock album.)

Since my wife and I both dislike Valentine’s Day, you won’t be reading some over the top mushy post today about our awesome marriage (which it is, BTW). No. Instead, I present to you a picture of a Shetland pony.



Why a Shetland pony? Because I have ADD and that is the first thing that popped into my head. Crazy how my mind works, huh?

Danzig is such a great band. Heavy, bluesy, and dark. What’s not to like about that? Though the first album is the most famous because the song Mother is on it, I think both Danzig II and III are stronger releases. Still, Danzig I was where it started. Below are my favorite tracks from the album.

Am I Demon


Twist of Cain


Soul of Fire


Mother (Live)

This past Saturday, Leah and I watched the documentary by Dave Grohl about the famous Sound City Studios, the unique mixing console at the studio, and the bands who used them both. Johnny Cash, Nirvana, Neil Young, Metallica, Tom Petty, Rage Against the Machine, and Rick Springfield are just a few of the many musicians who are featured in the movie.

The documentary really is a must watch for any music fan. Even if you aren’t a music a fan, it's well put together—filled with interesting facts and a bunch of fun moments. Some of my favorite parts involve the recording of the documentary’s soundtrack. Several big name artists all got together to write new music using Sound City's old equipment. Really awesome watching the creative process of these people. It also made me want to figure out a way to start playing my guitar again (sadly, I just don’t see that happening right now).

The documentary is also further proof of just how awesome Dave Grohl is. \m/

You can find details on where to see the movie or how to download it at http://buy.soundcitymovie.com/. It's also on Amazon (click here).

Or Tunes Tuesday...

I’ve mentioned previously that I like to listen to instrumental music on Pandora while writing as anything with lyrics becomes too distracting. Most of this music ends up being soundtracks or classical pieces. However, I’ve also grown to enjoy certain piano based songs. My favorite of these composers is Philip Wesley as it has a very dark undertone to the music. Below are my two favorite songs by him. Really beautiful stuff.

The Approaching Night


Dark Night of the Soul