So, it's been about a month since the big bang... microorganisms are evolving into amoebas, and amoebas are now doodlebugs. Brewing the funk in my soul kitchen, I eat supper like a metastasized Gunga Din.

So, recently I went to a show at Just Jakes in Montclair, NJ (although I shouldn't even refer to the place by name). Sadly, all my fears were validated regarding the state of the music industry. Why, you ask? The judges for the Battle of the Bands placed ticket sales as a higher criterion than talent, music, or originality. Three bands moved on to the final round and not one of them displayed any talent, originality, or guts. All three could have merged together to form SuperCreed.

Double Down may have had decent sound, but it was the equipment. The notes they were playing, although it sounded good in tone, had zero creative thought involved. They were a sad mix between Dave Matthews and Sugar Ray.

Finishing third, Stereo Soul. This may have been the only band to advance that had a sound resembling their own. However, it was awful. They, at many points, sounded like Hanson and the Beach Boys on ether. Most of their lyrics I learned in kindergarten, vowels and consonants combined for one syllable. Truly disgusting.

Second, and most amazingly, Beyond Mirth. This is junk. They were a poor man's creed. They managed to cover an Allanis Morrissette song, another indistinguishable languid tune, and two terrible 'originals.' They even had the nerve to give a shout out to people supporting original music.

If I actually thought these bands would advance, I would have paid attention so I could remember it better. At the, time I thought that would be like stocking Limp Bizkit records because you thought the first issued would be collectors items (although they will be, it is for entirely different reasons).

So, you may ask, why do you care so much, did your band not make it. No and No. I am not in a band entered in the contest, my friends' is. Maybe they are worse than the three previously mentioned. They must be, right? Did the judges just make it all up? Surely they must be where they are for a reason. A talented ear? Bullshit. They are just as lucky as Creed: right place, right time, no talent.

If you don't believe me, check out their site (no, not a shameless plug. It is true). I am their biggest fan, and happen to be their good friend.

http://www.ownershipofthehead.com
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