A TRIP: Episode 2 and Episode 3 Rough Cut

Recently, I had the pleasure working with two local film makers, Eric Ortiz and Mike Baltz, to produce their ambitious sci-fi comedy A TRIP. We filmed at various locations around the Twin Cities, including at the famous Cedar Ave greasy spoon, The Weinery, and the iconic Minneapolis Thai restaurant Sawatdee. Since the duo also moonlight at ShopNBC, we had access to a wide variety of audio and video equipment, and extra help. From audio engineers, to lighting and camera grips, we had it all. It's a producer's dream to work with such creative people and they both possess the talent and determination to create some impressive work.

Here is a quick synopsis from one half of the creative duo, Eric Ortiz:

"A TRIP is a show about to two slackers who try to take off on a trip but never get anywhere. The two slackers are constantly distracted by bizarre situations that stand in the way of their progress. Seemingly strange forces prevent them from acting on their free will. Do said forces have a different plan for FELIX and GAZ? These guys have a bizarre imagination and live in a world of their own. Who's to say what is real anymore. Think Beavis and Butthead meets the X-files. Tune in and find out. HA! It's a work in progress. The first 3 episodes are nearly done, save for final audio and a few fx/color correction. We have been trying to use all original music to give it a grunge rock feel. Enjoy!"

Ad Fed Pub Crawl 2011: Yacht Rock! on Lyn-LAKE

When:                          
Thursday May 12, 2011
Time & Location:                     
5:30-6:45 –  Herkimer: 2922 Lyndale Ave South, MPLS| 612.821.0101

7:00-8:45 -- moto-i: 2940 South Lyndale Avenue| 612.821.6262

9:00- ??? -- VFW and Karaoke: 2916 Lyndale Ave S| 612.823.623                    

It’s that time of year again sailors, Ad Fed’s annual pub crawl has capsized upon us, and this time we will Rock the Yacht on Lyn-Lake! Join us in a 70s/80s nautical theme party inspired by the amazing musical genre of known as Yacht Rock, sung by the sultry, smooth sounds of Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, and Hall and Oates.

This will be a great opportunity to network with fellow Ad Fed members, while getting three sheets to the wind… responsibly of course! The party launches at the Herkimer at 5:30pm sharp, where we will pour some craft beer down our hatches and maybe indulge in a few rounds of shuffleboard. Next, we will journey portside to moto-i at 7pm, where the party continues on the rooftop (weather and high swells permitting) with prizes and discount apps/drinks to enjoy. Lastly, follow us to the starboard side, where we end the night singing our hearts out to Adult Contempory hits with Karaoke at the VFW!

Register now and don’t forget to dress the occasion- wear your flippy-floppies, or you’ll be left stranded on the shore at Kinkos, straight flippin’ copies.

"Yacht Rock" cast from hit You Tube web series

Register online or contact the Ad Fed office at (651) 290-7489.

It's the End of an Era, It's True: Farewell, LCD Soundsystem

Thank you James Murphy for creating the soundtrack of my life for much of the 21st century. Over the weekend I was able to witness the last show of the now legendary band LCD Soundsystem, live in person. For nearly four hours, Madison Square Garden's capacity crowd (including myself) danced until exhaustion. The show was unlike the other three times I've seen them before. From a concert choir, to an backup jazz band, and topped off by a special guest appearance from Grammy award winners, Arcade Fire, this was truly a night to remember. Below is the concert in its entirety, clear your schedule and enjoy.



Also, check out Pitchfork's new article featuring the complete LCD history.