Friday, January 23, 2026

Just Because...

Natalie Wood

Just Because I'm in the mood for something different, Just Because it's Friday & Just Because I am a big fan of Natalie Wood, here it is Natalie Wood being whimsical with something straight outta the citrus family! (Since the shot is Black & White I can't tell if it's an orange or a grapefruit, for practical reasons I'm going with orange)

For those of you who don't know me "Yes" Natalie Wood was my first movie star crush. I remember the moment it happened was seeing her in West Side Story for the first time. I was completely mesmerized by her beauty, charisma and talent. She was Maria!

Once I saw that I devoured everything thing she did. She was so heartbreaking in Splendor in the Grass. In Rebel Without A Cause she was teen angst incarnate. 

"Yes" I could go on, but I won't.

Enjoy your weekend, Just Because...

Natalie on Instagram -

https://www.instagram.com/nataliewood/ 

Thursday, January 22, 2026

Michael's Musings

Lord Of The Wild Things
Michael Shinafelt


"Wild thing

You make my heart sing
You make everything groovy
Wild thing

Wild thing, I think you move me
But I wanna know for sure
So come on and hold me tight
You move me" - The Troggs, Wild Thing

A male witch is called a witch. Not a wizard, not a warlock, not a sorcerer, not a magician. Just a witch...the more you know

Will you be my freak on a leash? Think about it, but not too much

The John Hughes classic "Pretty In Pink" celebrates turning 40 with a return to theaters February 13 -16, yep in time for Valentine's Day

If they want to see you as the villain...Then strike a pose!

Sometimes even a Rock Star like you needs a break, that's all

Veronica Mars is currently on Netflix. Since I've never seen it I decided to give it a go. Yep, I'm hooked!

It's official I've lost 26lbs on my GLP-1. Started at 197 am down to 171, there's that.

Today is the most humiliating day in American History. At least until tomorrow.


Woman Crush of the Week - Rachel McAdams who just got her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Looking forward to seeing Sam Raimi's Send Help in which she stars opening next weekend!

"I don't know who I am" and other such dilemmas.

Pro Tip: Tell a coworker they swallowed too many kids and that's why everything that comes out of their mouth is childish. Let me know how it goes...

Dr. Wiggles Weiner Wagon, say that three times fast

They apologized, but I already mailed a piece of their hair to this lady in New Orleans, Ooops!

Consider this a warning: I found you in this lifetime and I will find you in the next.

Let's meet here:



Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Hump Day & Chill

Michael Shinafelt

"I will drive past your house

And if the lights are all downI'll see who's around
One way, or another, I'm gonna find yaI'm gonna get ya, get ya, get ya, get yaOne way, or another, I'm gonna win ya, I'll get ya, I'll get ya" - Blondie, One Way Or Another
Hey Minions, if you are seeing this the curse is lifted! Yay! 
It's time to Hump Day & Chill...I'm going to drink wine and listen to Blondie. 
Whatever you choose, we've earned it!
Time to get to it, enjoy 😎
Blondie on IG -

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

"A Place In Time"

Long Island, NY — Progressive rock quartet Dhärä return today with their expansive new single “A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided)”, offering the next glimpse into their forthcoming full-length album Elemental Four, arriving January 11, 2026.

Known for their immersive instrumental storytelling and dynamic compositions, Dhärä continue to push beyond strict genre boundaries on “A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided).” The track unfolds with patience and atmosphere before erupting into driving rhythms, soaring guitar interplay, and a powerful sense of momentum—highlighting the band’s signature balance between precision, emotion, and scale.

The band shares: "This is the opening of our concept album Elemental Four. "A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided)" introduces many themes that are heard throughout the album. This album is also a concert movie that features five ballerinas who perform modern lyrical dance to the music. Elemental Four is a journey of four entities whose world is shaken by a meteor which threatens their existence. They are separated by a great earthquake, and the only path to saving the planet and themselves is to unify and summon The Conduit, whose power can hopefully vanquish the threat."

Stream the new single here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dhr1/dhr-2 

Watch the videohttps://youtu.be/bgegZtzrjJM?si=jRY9wnZdPoorjL5m

Pre-save the album here:  https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dhr1/elemental-four


Since forming in 2015, Dhärä have been steadily carving out a distinct voice within progressive and instrumental rock. Based in Long Island, New York, the band has released an EP, standalone singles, eclectic music videos, and even a coordinated custom light show—embracing a fully DIY ethos from recording and production to visuals and live presentation. This new single marks another step forward in what the band describes as only the beginning.

Critics have consistently praised Dhärä for their virtuosity, atmosphere, and cinematic approach:

“The way the song is sort of divided into two parts is really interesting, with a skyrocketing shift in dynamic and tempo about halfway through… There’s also a little bit more prog in Dhärä’s DNA, which might make people think more of projects like Skyharbor or The Helix Nebula.”
— Michael Whiteside, Deputy Editor, Fecking Bahamas

“The guitars in this track create an absolutely captivating atmosphere and an inspiring arrangement… irresistible riffs and melodies unfold, combined with intense drive and concentrated energy.”
— Indie Tapes Blog/Playlist

“Playful and versatile… incredible virtuosity… epic and exciting instrumental progressive rock without needing any vocals.”
— Zona Emergente

“Let the melody of this song sweep you away… a dreamlike opening that gradually envelops us in a tinkling, atmospheric soundscape.”
— End Sessions MX

“Awesome guitar work and spirit that captures a bit of a cinematic and melancholic atmosphere.”
— We All Want Someone To Shout For

Dhärä is comprised of four distinct creative voices whose differences fuel their sound: Chris Rodriguez (drums), Austin Sandick (guitar), Kay Tyagi (guitar), and Ryan DiPietrantonio (bass). Together, they focus on building immersive atmospheres while always serving the song—embracing instrumental music as a limitless medium for exploration and expression.

“A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided)” is available now on all major platforms. Elemental Four arrives January 11, 2026. 

Listen & Follow Dhärä:
Main Website: https://www.dharamusic.com/
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dharamusic
Bandcamp: https://dhara.bandcamp.com/album/dh-r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dharamusicny
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dharamusicny/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dharamusicny

Monday, January 19, 2026

Sunday, January 18, 2026

Walking in LA...

Photo:
Michael Shinafelt

Hit Rough Trade in the Sunset Junction (one of my favorite hoods in Los Angeles) section of Silverlake, CA the other day and while walking around the area I came up this slogan splashed a few times in various places throughout:

DON'T BE DUMB

IMO this statement has arrived somewhat on the tardy side. "Yes" it's late. However perhaps there is hope that collective consciousness will gain enough wisdom to perhaps salvage something from the wreckage.

IYKYK.

So keep on keeping and have a Sunday Funday!

Yeah, that's the ticket...

Visit Sunset Junction on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunset_Junction

Saturday, January 17, 2026

Current Mood

The Only Erika That Matters, Erika Jayne

While scrolling through Social Media I happened upon this, I assume, candid image of Erika Jayne of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills.

Upon seeing it I had all the feels of my Current Mood. "Yes" this is how I am feeling at present and this is actually the kindest way I can express it. Trust me if you wanted me to share my actual thoughts you would bear witness to a way harsher form of self expression, indeed.

Kudos to whoever captured this image of Erika and a feel good shout out to the diva for giving zero f#cks about it.

Hope your Current Mood is more stellar than mine, don't forget to brush your teeth...

Toothbrush Drop!

Erika on IG -

https://www.instagram.com/theprettymess/?hl=en