Review of: Saturday Night Sage, by Noah C. Lekas

BLIND OWL RECORDS RELEASES
SATURDAY NIGHT SAGE
 BY AUTHOR: NOAH C. LEKAS

"A mystic book of poetry that has inspired film, music recordings, and multi-media content featured by Please Kill Me, The Big Takeover, San Diego Union-Tribune, and more."

"Almost immediately, Saturday Night Sage has captured the attention and imagination of several post-punk and psych-rock music scenes inspiring collaboration. The limited-edition paperback features original cover art by iconic Rock 'n' Roll artist Alan Forbes. There is also a limited-edition 18x26 original Alan Forbes print that accompanies the project."- Press release.

Those statements raise the expectations of the book quite high. And it delivered. Taken was I, as read through the pages by the intricate woven words that transported me to times and places I had not been. Flashes of my youth were vivid in my mind. Of those days of sitting listening to The Doors, Hendrix, Joplin, and The Who, alone in my room. Flowery words from a garden of storytelling. The kind of words that doesn't tickle the ears but soothes the soul.

Each poem is cohesive to a single mystical theme, and the flow of each line sets a steady pace for easy reading. The creative will conjure many images that will paint colorful pictures in their minds.

I am a country boy through and through, but I gained somewhat an appreciation for urbanites. Their struggles and day-to-day life is not totally unlike what we country folk face. Though I must say, it solidified my determination to remain in rural America.

Even this Hillbilly can appreciate the somber mood and a trip through concrete jungles. The book is more than just those things I already mentioned; it is in many respects; manna for the soul. It is unclear if that was the intended purpose, but that is what I found. This "Mountain Man" thoroughly enjoyed this book and will recommend you reading it.

"Every Drunk" is my pick out of the lot. The blatant truth is this my reality captured in the poem. I may have taken it more literal than some will, but "Every drunk I know is rotten with dementia."

The use of symbolism, metaphors, and allegories are well done. With enough skill, they form a tapestry of double entendres that should prove unique to each reader.

For more information:

https://noahclekas.com/

@noahclekas
Thank you for reading,
@budkelly3

Review of Songs Of Dusk A Collection Of Poems By Niladri Mitra

Songs Of Dusk

A Collection Of Poems

By Niladri Mitra

REVIEW

The book doesn't have a central theme, but all are connected by "three elements of ourselves." The three are Heart, Mind, and Spirit.

HEART

As I read each poem, I could hear rock ballads play in my mind. All of these poems in this section flowed well, and love's melody was as sweet as a bird's morning song. Behind the gentle sounds was a sense of heartbreak and pain. "Old Friend," especially touched my heart in a personal way. 

"Heart" is an appropriate summation of this section of the book. It gave me a sense of the author's heart. For me, these poems are "expressions" of Niladri Mitra's heart.

Some of these poems have an almost rhythmic tone and pace. One especially is "Tears Don't Last." I thoroughly enjoyed that one.

Word choice was well thought out. They were not overly sophisticated; but delightful in their simplicity. Also, metaphors are sparse. The author chose a more direct approach. I found the strategy acceptable. Niladri's choice of being direct made each one easy to understand.

MIND

The opening lines under this section:

"Born In Darkness

Born into darkness

Fostered by pain

Broken by love

Again and again

Tears of acid."

I found these words gripping. We think of our natural birth as coming out of the darkness and into the light. However, this ominous tone sets the mood for this section. Salty tears express our pain. Sometimes it hurts to cry. The visual of these expressions of sorrow cutting into our flesh (mortality) is profound.

This section used more metaphors and similes to paint pictures within the gallery of our minds.

The theme of pain, suffering, and loss carries throughout.

"A broken heart hurts more than a broken bone."

Emotional pain can leave invisible scars and wounds that never heal. Also, in this section, we are confronted with existential questions that challenge us to introspection.

SPIRIT

"I hear a whisper as I go to sleep at night

Someone tells me to carry on, urges me to fight."

It is accurate in our times of rest we cannot because of our will overpowering the times of rest.

Most of us find; A troubled spirit finds no bed to slumber. A notion the author once again delivers. I enjoy the bearing of one's soul and finding a voice for innermost thoughts. This section is just that; spirit speaking clearly from somewhere deep within the author's mortal vessel.

Al through the book, it is as you are peering through the windows of the soul. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and I do recommend you read it too. Even if you are not really into poetry, you can find one or two poems that will speak to you.

For more info @niladri_m

Thank you y'all,
@budkelly3

Update

I am falling behind on this Blog. I am overwhelmed with everyday work, but I have a tradition every October, I watch 3-4 horror movies every day. My friends, even at that, I would still have time. The main thing that I am hem-hawing around about is; a dear friend is battling an illness. I must be there for them. So please bear with me, I shall return.

Thank you.

Hillbillies and Rednecks

Today, I am just gonna jaw with you. So excuse the poor grammar and such. At times, I think we should just write as if we are speaking with one another. To hell with grammar and correctness. I just want to take time and share with y'all the differences between hillbillies and rednecks.

The term Hillbilly originated from the Scotch-Irish term for the "supporters of King William." It combines the words "Hill" (Denoting the location; the hills and mountains of Appalachia) and Billy. The word "Billy" derived from "Billy Boys.” The Billy Boys were Scotch-Irish immigrants that settled the hill-country of Appalachia and brought with them their songs and ballads that dealt with William, Prince of Orange, who defeated the Catholic King James II of the Stuart family at the Battle of the Boyne, Ireland in 1690.

Other simple terms are also used to describe Hillbillies, they include; Mountain Folk, Ridgers, Hill people, People of the Mountains, Cloud Hoppers [Clod Hoppers are farmers], Hicks, Backwoods Folk, Yokel, Bumpkin, Chawbacon, Rube, Hayseed, Cornball, Boors, Mountaineer, Churl. Not all of those are flattering.

Redneck; The origins of this term as is with the language can be traced to the Scottish and refer to supporters of the National Covenant and The Solemn League and Covenant, or "Covenanters." They were largely Lowland Presbyterians, many of whom would flee Scotland for Ulster (Northern Ireland) during persecutions by the British Crown. The Covenanters of 1638 and 1641, signed the documents that stated that Scotland desired the Presbyterian form of church government, and would not accept the Church of England as its official state church. Many Covenanters signed in their own blood, and wore red pieces of cloth around their necks as distinctive insignia; hence the term "Red neck," (rednecks) became slang for a Scottish dissenter.

As they migrated to the Appalachia region, the term followed them. It was between 1912-1936 when coal miners began to wear red handkerchiefs around their necks as a part of their informal uniforms. Came to be recognized as a sign of solidarity or “union men” or “strikers.” The use of redneck to designate "a union member" was especially popular during the 1920s and 1930s in the coal-producing regions of southern West Virginia, eastern Kentucky, and western Pennsylvania, where the word came to be specifically applied to a miner who belonged to a union.

Today, the term is used to describe everything from Southerners to anyone living in a rural community. To others, this term conjures images of hard-working blue-collar, bel esprit,  obstreperous men and women.

Most people think hillbillies and rednecks are the same. They are not. You can be a redneck anywhere you want to be. But hillbillies always come from the mountains and hills. Hillbillies also hold tight to the old ways and traditions handed down to them. Hillbillies also speak the language of the mountains; Mountain Dialect. 

They do share common traits, such as being rowdy and mean, but they hold to the Old South traditions and customs. [No that doesn't mean racism] Old South ways are the morals and ethics of being a Southern Gentleman or Lady.

Review of Omen #2. Omen Comics

The wait is finally over. The Omen Comic #2 is here, and once again, delivers an excellent book to their fans. There are 46 nail-biting pages inside the book. This edition delves deeper into mythology. Michael Nunneley does well at mixing different myths into one fascinating story.

In this second issue of the ongoing series, we learn the fate of Frank Wade so far, and we learn more about the Omen Armor. The armor may call to mind X-O Manowar Armor [Valiant Comics], more than say Iron Man's armor. I must say I was glad to see Omen in battle. For me, it brought images of Deadpool or Deathstroke donning mystical armor; which was gratifying.

The story dawdled at times, but not to the point of monotony. Again, I classify it as a nail-biter that kept me on the edge of my seat. Further, as a horror movie and comic fan, the horror elements were wonderfully done. Mr. Tosin deserves a big pat on the back for using brighter colors instead of muted and dark colors in his artwork. Heavy use of blue still sets the mood well for scenes of horror.

Within the frames, some images were not level. I don't know if it was intentional or not, but it gave me a feeling that the world was out of balance. A Fun House Effect if you want to call it that. I continue to be impressed with Mr. Tosin's use of colors to tell the story within the frames. Color symbolism properly used.

A couple of times could have better used the word and thought bubbles. However, it did not affect the story at all.

One subtle visual cue or possible Easter Egg to look for is Six Triangles {Six Pointed Star} that symbolizes the "Land of Spirits." Also, be on the lookout for the name of a particular Loa as well.

Overall, I am impressed with this issue and give it 4 out of 5 stars.

For more information, click here

Follow @ComicsOmen

Thank you,
@budkelly3 #IFB

Omen Comics Podcast

There are many things I enjoy doing in life, but maybe none more so than talking about comics. Sure I draw, write, and collect them. I also teach collecting comics, as well as some of the history of comics to those that want to learn. As a collector and wheeler dealer for all things pop culture, I get asked to appraise comics and related items. The point is, I am a comic book nut. They have been a part of heart and soul since a very young age.

I am content with hiding in the shadows. Meaning, I never want to be in the spotlight. I provide information to those that have YouTube channels that discuss comics. I tell them to not mention my name or give me credit. I am happy to see others grow and prosper from what knowledge I have amassed over the years.

Writing this, I feel awkward and am struggling with it. So I will stop hem-hawing around. Yesterday, I had the privilege to join Michael Nunneley and Steve Sellers on the Omen Comics Podcast. I didn't really know what all to say or even when to say it. It was all off the cuff. I am posting the link to the video here. Please feel free to comment below your thoughts on it.

Click here:

Omen Comics Podcast

Also, some news today. Omen #2 is out today. Please get your copy in your preferred format (physical or digital) today. On Twitter you can find them @ComicsOmen. Also on Facebook or email: comicsomen@gmail.com. I will be reviewing Omen #2 soon, so stay tuned.

 

Larfleeze/Agent Orange. DC Comics

One other thing before I go; please consider supporting The Space Heists of Vyvy and Qwerty #3 on Kickstarter back this book

Thank you,
@budkelly3 #IFB

Review: Strayer #1

Strayer #1
Aftershock
Justin Jordan, Juan Gideon, Tamra Bonvillain, Rachel Deering

The opening narration we learn the world we are about to enter is dystopian. The people have fallen back to an almost medieval time. The town though looks like it is out of the old west.

"A world under the thumb of the Church of the Grammar. A world without the tools, the resources, to be better. Where metal and magic are hoarded."

As you read along, you can find plenty of metal used. So not all metal is worth hoarding. A subtle visual cue that lets you know not all metal is valuable.

On page 4, we meet Strayer. Who comes off as being inspired by Volstagg [Marvel Comics]. Or at least who he reminds me of. The "witch" is Mala Tenboom, and she is looking for help. She wants to restore "the High Ages and the Time of Dreams." She leaves Strayer little choice but to help her.

This is the typical #1 format. Introduce the characters, their purpose/mission, and leave questions unanswered so you'll want to read the next book. The pace was good, and the use of frames was standard. The artwork was above average. If you like dystopian future stories with magic, action, and mystery; then you will enjoy this book. Overall, I did enjoy reading this book. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

Thank you for reading. Please subscribe to this blog to get reviews and more.

@budkelly3 #IFB

Oh, the horror!

No mystery here - I fucking love horror! As a child, my family and I lived in what some call a haunted house. One night I woke up with a transparent woman standing over me. She reached down and pinned my shoulders to the bed. I tried to scream but I couldn't. I kicked the mattress over and over again. Finally, she left, and I ran to my parents' room. I told them what happened, hoping I would sleep there. But no, I was told, Shut up Bud, and go back to bed. I slept the rest of the night under my blankets.

That experience gave me a taste of fear, and I ended up loving it. I read every Pre-Code horror comic I could find and watching every horror movie I could. That forced exposure led me to love all things horror. 

Some tell me I am haunted. Ghosts are attracted to me, or so I am told. {At least something finds me attractive}

Sadly, I have become desensitized to horror. I love them, but I don't get scared anymore. I miss that feeling. Fear, some say, has a torment but I found it exciting. As I said before, horror hides in our imagination. If only could let my imagination run free, would that unlock the fear? Would I once again feel the cold chills, the racing heartbeat, and the aspirated breath? 

I am not Dare Devil, the so-called Man Without Fear. Neither of us is incapable of being scared; it is just hard to do. I know, what is a backwoods Hellbilly doing comparing himself to Dare Devil? Well hell, if I could fly and had superhuman strength, I would compare myself to Superman. The "Man Without Fear" is where the similarities end. 

While horror movies no longer scare, they do thrill. The sleeping bag scene with Jason Voorhees still excites. Victor Crowley ripping the top off an old woman's head is thrills. But I am looking for the chills. I am looking for the creeping flesh and spine-tingling fright that had as a child.

You may be thinking, Man, this is one sick man. Well, I take that as a compliment. As a fan of Twisted Sister, I am an SMF [Sick Mother Fucker]. There is nothing wrong with seeking out places to experience fright. Haunted Attractions exist for a reason and so do horror movies. People enjoy being scared. That is an enjoyment I miss. 

My top 25 list of favorite monsters/horror villains:

1. Godzilla
2. Victor Crowley
3. Frankenstein's Monster
4. Dracula/Nosferatu [tie]
5.  Pinhead
6. Michael Meyers
7. Leatherface
8. Jason Voorhees
9. Freddy Krueger
10. The puppets in Puppet Master
11. King Kong
12. Xenomorphs
13. Pumpkin Head
14. The Hillbillies in the Wrong Turn movies.
15. The Creeper
16. Pennywise
17. Wolf Man or Woman
18. The Dentist [Dr. Alan Feinstone]
19. Gorgo
20. Billy [Silent Night Deadly Night]
21. The Blob [1958]
22. Chromeskull
23. Candyman
24. Chucky
25. Ghost Face

I would debate that those like Frankenstein's Monster and Gorgo are not villains, but victims. But for the sake of making my favorites, I put them in. 

Other notables include Kujo, the Gill-Man, Jigsaw, and the Tall Man.

What are some of your favorite horror villains? Tell me below or Tweet me @budkelly3  I guess if anything...