Wolf Larsen, “If I Be Wrong”

Wolf Larsen is an impeccable woman who makes emotive music from family roots that grew a folk soul. She lyrically captivates and musically carries you on a sea of strings, both plucked and strummed, in a lulling, comforting rhythm. Her music is poetry in motion, summoning a response from the steely because it is earnest, it is sincere and clear.

A bell that rings true.

A Nostos Nic Podcast

1898 Nostos Nic as Driver

A few weeks back I recorded a podcast with David Gallagher and Woody LaBounty–the good folks at the Western Neighborhoods Project (WNP). In it we speak of Camp Merritt, the Spanish American War and the west side when it was overrun with salty soldiers from the South. Click HERE to give it a listen, and don’t forget to throw the WNP some love. They deserve it.

A Meeting Has Been Called

Whilst reading the Classified section of a San Francisco Chronicle from the 1880s, I came across an advertisement titled “A Meeting Has Been Called”; this is what it said:

“A MEETING HAS BEEN CALLED for all those wanting clothing at less than one-half what they were made for; shall meet at ORIGINAL MISFIT CLOTHING PARLORS, n.w. cor. Post and Dupont sts.”

This advertisement was sandwiched in between an ad calling for a stockholder’s meeting, and another listing dividends.

Sarah Jaffe, “Clementine”

Sarah Jaffe’s 2010 album Suburban Nature is the perfect combination of female musicianship. One part Cat Power, one part Wye Oak with a bit of Eleanor Murray channeling Tegan and Sara. This album, which I unearthed late last week, is best utilized to free yourself of foes; to close your bedroom door, crank the volume and exist solely in a cloud of aural Jaffe. In other words, you should lose yourself in Suburban Nature.

My particular favorite is “Pretender”. This album goes in the purchased bucket.

Diary of Lois Elaine Jelin: Entry One Hundred Thirty-Four

Entry One Hundred Thirty-Four

Sunday, June 15                  Weather marked as Clear.

Dear Diary,

The last day of school. I never thought I could feel this way. Bob & me, Lynn & Ricky went to the Aloha Dance. The band was terrific. Bob and I danced the bunny-hug the latter part of the dance. Afterwards we came to my house. Lynn & Rick went on the patio & Bob & I stayed inside. I can’t express my emotions, I can’t seem to put my feelings into words. Afterwards—Mom came home & went to bed & we continued—Lynn & Rick wouldn’t go back out so we did! I’de say he loves me! He wants me to wear his letterman sweater. Tonite I kissed Bob for the first time standing up—which I like—and lying down. I like that too. He’s so wonderful—I just hope it lasts. Oh if only it would last: although I’m not quite sure about the way I fell about him…

Got home at 11:00 pm. Boys left at 1:00 am.