My Distractions
Sunday, September 13, 2009 at 9:35 AM TED is a great site to stumble across any number of things that are focused on the future. Here's just one:
Author P.W. Singer talks about the future of robots in war. It's a fascinating subject (as the viewer comments attest). What once seemed so impossible and the stuff of science fiction is already here.
I'm snacking on the first part of his related "Wired for War" book, and it's equally interesting.
Saturday, September 12, 2009 at 6:35 PM I’m a big fan of Southern Soul, particularly the Memphis and Muscle Shoals forms. But because there was so much fantastic music from those two areas, it’s easy to get stuck listening to Stax, Fame, Atlantic and Hi artists. Even their duds are better than most of the competition. 
This year-old Southern soul collection from Ace Records is killer.But I’d encourage any fans of R&B and soul of that era to check out “Take Me to the River: A Southern Soul Story 1961-1977.”
It’s an absolutely brilliant three-CD set from Ace Records that collects 75 songs from artists and labels big and small. There's Aretha, Wilson Pickett, Percy Sledge, William Bell, etc., but the emphasis is on the little-known tunes or one-hit wonders. Some of the production leaves a bit to desired, but the performances are top notch top to bottom.
To top it off, the packaging is superb. The CDs come in a similar-sized hardcover book that features full glossy photos and stories behind each song.
It's pricey (I paid $48, but notice Amazon's price is now $60) but highly recommend it for fans of Southern soul, classic R&B and the roots of rock.
Friday, September 11, 2009 at 9:18 AM While taking a few days off I've been able to dive into a fun mystery called "Starvation Lake" that mixes small-town Michigan politics, beer-league hockey and newspaper journalism. Trifecta for me!
I'm only a quarter of the way through but can tell it's going to be worth my time. But I'll follow up with a true thumbs up/down when I'm done.
Thanks to @VinceKern of the Detroit Media Partnership for the recommendation. He's a Red Wings nut but stooped to share his good fortune with this Blackhawks' fan.
