take a deep breath and hold it in

Holy moley. It's finally FRIDAY. I swear these weeks have been kicking my ass, as of late, and with a big move this weekend (to where? nowhere!) I've hardly had a chance to catch my breath. I've been overtly stressed, overtly anxious, and overtly tired and I'm pretty sure it's that much harder because I'm used to summers being relaxed. Not this year, of course.

But that's not to say I haven't had any fun, because I have. I'm at a very good place now in my life, and I couldn't be happier about how things are progressing. Plus, I'm off to London in a couple weeks for a much much needed vacation and to see the parentals (one of which, just met Prince Charles - crazy!) bringing along Pat who will be making his first trip overseas. Yipee!

But one of the biggest honors I've had as of late is being asked to write the liner notes to one of my favorite New York artists, Wakey!Wakey!. He will be releasing a live EP on Family Records, of that fabulous show back in April. I cant even begin to explain (or, okay, give away the liners) how great this guy is. Last night I was at Joe's Pub to see the Undisputed Heavyweights for the millionth time (and they are still as wonderful as always) and we were treated to having Wakey open. I was there with five other gals as a sort of goodbye party for my dear roommate (we will miss you!). All six of us girls were completely enamored with Mr. Wakey!Wakey!. And not just for the beard, I swear. His set was heartfelt and honest. He's quite a charming character, which always seems to invoke lots of chuckles and "aw goshs" but when heading into his last song -- the amazing "Car Crash" the laughs stopped, and Wakey shined. The song [listen here] is brutally raw and at times uncomfortable. But man, I would not have had it any other way.

Undisputed Heavyweights rule. You've heard me praise them enough. Go see them again when they play Joe's Pub for their last night of their summer residency August 24 (that's a Friday, right Wes?) Seth Kallen will be opening.

Speaking of Seth, you must check out his blog. He and Ben from Jukebox The Ghost have been galavanting around England for the past couple weeks, and it looks as though they are having a super time. They even include videos and MP3s (one of which I'll post below). But go check out the blog before they come back stateside and forget how much fun blogging is.

This weekend, I'm off to try and relax while moving everything out of the Lower East Side apartment. Once I get a free moment, I'm going to post an awesome mix that will try and sum up what it's like to live in that part of town. It sure has been fun, but I think I'll enjoy the quieter atmosphere of Chelsea!

Toodles.

• Ben Thornewill & Seth Kallen - Hold It In

The Undisputed Heavyweights @ Joe's Pub (take two)

I will always remember seeing The Undisputed Heavyweights for the very first time. I had no idea what to expect, and then I heard Casey Shea tell the crowd a song was dedicated to me because I had just been fired from my job. He made the crowd scream, "Damn the man." I was flabbergasted, and in awe. This band has that thing called the it factor. I knew it then, and I know it now. After countless shows and repeated blog postings, I still find myself falling for this band more and more each time.

And I will never forget last night's show at Joe's Pub.

Like I said, I've seen this band at least 15 times by now. I know the whole routine. But never had I been serenaded before. During my favorite song (and a top 25 of 2006) "Lost (On An Island)" or as they are calling it now "Girl Like You," Mr. Shea took my hand and crooned away. I think a little piece of my heart melted in that instant. Albeit being completely embarrassed, I know it's one of those times that I'll remember with a great big smile.

And the rest of the show? Brilliant. Spectacular. Surreal. (Insert more adjectives here)

I just cannot tell you enough how great this band is. You won't believe me until you experience it yourself. They are the ideal balance between talent and show, with each moment above and beyond the last. If I had my way, I'd see this band play every night of the week, no joke.

One of my regrets last time they played this venue was that they didn't bring back "Casey" an extraordinary number in which Mr. Shea laments to himself over a glass of red wine. It providing the highlight of the evening this time around, with Casey down on his hands and knees in a magical moment that the crowd just couldn't get enough of.

Look out for a live EP coming your way by the time of their next show, February 22 at Mercury Lounge. Seriously, if you're looking for an escape from the hohumdum of what's being called indie rock these days, check this band out. I personally guarantee that you will not be disappointed.

The Undisputed Heavyweights @ Joe's Pub......AGAIN!

O em gee. They are doing it again!!!

BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE!!!!.

Do NOT miss this show.