Inconclusive

My mind wanders round you in circles
Mystified, perplexed, and content
You are not black, nor are you white
Some transient rainbow of all that lies in between
That seems to be your palette, my friend
With hearty tools of theory I dissect you
But the conclusion is always the same
Inconclusive
You can't be boxed or caged
Try as I may, I will never tame you enough for the answer
Yet maybe somewhere stirring within me
Mingling with the curiosity of your mystery
Is the fact that I don't want to know
Without the burden of your secret's unraveling, I can dream
And fly around your heart as I ponder
The root of your existence

The evolution of a dream

Most everyone has a dream. Not everyone does something about that dream.

James Bishop is one person who goes against the grain in this way. He had a far fetched goal that he wanted more than anything in the world- to have his favorite band play at his wedding this coming July. Today, 460 days later, Bish got his wish. Here's a recap of how it all began.

Step 1- Go out on a limb

Bishop and Douch explain their campaign for the first time.

Step 2- Make it personal

The guys launch a Mac Attack!!

Step 3-Take to the streets

Bishop and Douch take the campaign on tour in the UK and get to pitch their request face to face with their favorite band.

Step 4- Persevere

Each day without fail, Bishop or Douch (or both) made a video explaining what it would mean if Hanson played the wedding.

Step 5- Endure

A very bad day

Bishop discovers that Hanson has booked a gig in the US the day of his wedding, making it literally impossible to make his one wish come true.



Step 6- An unexpected surprise

After 458 days of silence, Hanson presents an offer that is too good to pass up!


Step 7- Give thanks

Bishop responds to the reality that he is going to get to give his new wife the opportunity of a lifetime, thanks to the one band he thought he'd never get to involve in the happiest day of his life.


This entire campaign is just visible proof that perseverance pays off. Will Hanson play every fan's honeymoon from this day forward? I doubt it will ever happen again. But for the guy who recruited a sole comrade to help single handedly tackle an impossible feat,  today he receives the gift he once could only dream of.

Congratulations to James Bishop and the soon to be Mrs.Jennie Bishop! Accolades are also in order for Chris Douch, who helped make the campaign everything it was. I know I won't be the only one missing your guys'  hilarious videos.

Maybe we're just going to have to start a campaign of our own... Bishop and Douch Do America?   I say you take the comedy duo on the road, guys!!!!

20 songs you probably haven't heard and are missing out on.

Disclaimer: I never stated that you and I had the same taste in music, so keep that in mind as you browse along. ;)

The following are 20 of the best songs (in my opinion) that are not well known to the general public and deserve a bit more recognition.

1) Dosed- RHCP
This is one of those songs that I personally never heard of until recently and man am I wishing I'd been aware it was released as a single a decade ago! Frusciante's gorgeous riffs and incredible harmonies, Anthony's singing. It all just fell together so smoothly. I like the subdued feel of it, but also the crazy passion behind the song as well. Definitely a diamond in the rough! I belt this one out so hard in my car that it's embarrassing. I dare you not to do the same now that you've heard it.

2)
Hands for Battle- Nice Guy, Mean Mug

I've tried several times to liken this band to others when trying to explain their style to my friends. It's kind of impossible, and that's good in a world of music that tends to run together like a puddle of undefined watercolors. All of their music just gets me pumped. The vocals are slick, guitar and drums just rip it up. It's amazing how well it all fits together, considering how much is going on all at once. Add to that just the slightest touch of screamo and there you have it- a feel good anthem about making sacrifices to get where you're going. Yet another sing along for the car ride home.

3) The Theory of Funkativity- This City

How can you not just feel the passion these guys exude? They create some seriously brilliant music!!!! The lead singer (Pat) has a really individual voice and I personally am a big fan of it. You have to visit theoryoffunk.com to actually understand what this band is capable of. It'll blow you out of the water, I guarantee it. They're more about the journey of music rather than focusing on nothing but hit after hit. Yet another great example of the direction a lot of our generation of indie artists have taken, which I for one can say that I'm quite proud of.

4) Eclectic Approach- Cool

Seriously, if this song doesn't get you in the mood to do some kind of partying, I'm not sure you have ears. This is one of those that's a hook, line, and sinker right from the get go. Saw these guys as openers for a favorite band and could not believe my ears, it felt like they were the headliners. Complete show stoppers with their stage presence. Although the song in and of itself is just cool (no pun intended), the mixture of rap, harmony, and actual musicianship is exciting. 

5) Hanson-Make It Alright

So much about this unreleased track is atypical for Hanson. Let me explain: Zac's voice is not normally that filthy, for lack of a better word. To most, it may sound just like a funked out song with a good chorus. But to anyone familiar with Hanson's music from about 2001 on, you know that this isn't par for the course. The style is completely separate from their usual work. I LOVE it, and I don't at all mean that in the pervy way you may think. It's just nice to have a wild card thrown in there sometimes. It's fun when artists experiment with different sounds. The funk in this song is great. And can I mention Isaac's sick guitar skills here? All around a hit. Sorry for those of you who think these guys musically died at MmmBop, that was really just the beginning.

6) Jars of Clay- Art In Me

For those of you not familiar with Jars of Clay, I'll share why I'm a fan and you can make up your own mind. I really appreciate that lyrically they're not too concerned with wowing everyone and bringing attention to themselves. Their music is very much focused on God and His glory. The lead singer (Dan Haseltine) has a voice unlike any other, making their music easy to identify and set apart from the rest. All around, this has been one of my favorite bands since I was a little tween.

7) Brook Fraser- Albertine

There are so many reasons this is an amazing song, and you will understand all of them if you listen to the lyrics. It's that simple. Absolutely incredible message that we all should hear. We are very very lucky to live in a the 1st world, and it's our responsibility if nothing else, to be aware of those who are not as fortunate and what they face daily.

8)
Scartographer- Horizon album

I went to school with this guy and seriously, his guitar skills blow my mind. I remember him playing for our class once and I was stunned- but this is a different level of awesome from where he was then. Newly signed, with a brand new album, he's got more than enough great tracks to keep you busy for a while. If you are into instrumentals that provide your brain with a lot more bite than elevator background noise, you have to check him out. It seems like the whole spectrum of musical extremes are visited in this collection of songs. Scartographer just rips it up in every song, all of which are arranged really well and provide enough variety to keep you far from boredom. Start with Perfecting the Archetype though, it'll set the stage for what you're about to experience.

9) Eric Hutchinson- Oh

I won't elaborate much on this one. I just love the song so much. It's incredibly catchy and fun. And it won't ever get out of my head after I listen to it. You know it's good if you're brains still noshing on the melody 3 hours later.

10) Keaton Simons- Currently

Ok, ladies, if I have to explain this one, I totally give up! But seriously, this man is the definition of a true musician, he's got the whole package- style, musical ability, unique voice, original lyrics. This one sounds like summer time to me. What you guys  think?


11) Justin Young- Sip Your Wine

Wow. Just wow, really. Been a long time fan of Justin's. Even though there's pretty blatant innuendos in this song, I even refer friends to it as a first Justin Young song because it really showcases his talent so well. He's got mad acoustic skills, and a very soothing voice. Good relaxation music. Definitely on my list of artists to see live.

12) Fountains of Wayne- Someone To Love

 I love Fountains of Wayne for a lot of reasons, one of them being that just hearing Adam's voice reminds me of Stacy's Mom. Come on, you can't deny that you sang that song on loop in the early millennium period. This song is a bit reminiscent of the 90's for me  (even though it's from '07) and the video is hilarious. The chorus is impossible to forget and it's another that I'll be singing later into the night because it's now brainwashed into my head again after watching this video!

13) Tinted Windows- Messing With My Head

This band has nothing but catchy songs. Their sound is very late 80's, early 90's. Never mind that it's comprised of members from Cheap trick, Smashing Pumpkins, Fountains of Wayne, and Hanson. As a super group, they mesh well and create light hearted, very poppy tunes. They seem comfortable in this niche, as you can hear in this upbeat song about the nature of women torturing men with their mind games. Ladies, we knew they'd catch on at some point!

14) Icarus Account- MayDay

Oh boy are you all in for a surprise! The twins of the Icarus Account are acoustic wizards. They make magic, I tell ya! For men, they've got great range in their voices and they keep the music simple, but relate able. Like this one, the songs are always clean, but well done. I definitely look forward to what their musical career holds!

15) Red Hot Chili Peppers- Funny Face

If you've ever wondered what it might sound like if Flea went all reggae on us, this is your musical answer. I was absolutely floored when I heard this Stadium Arcadium B-side. I'm already a fan of reggae, and you could, well you could say I may just fancy the Red Hots, so you can imagine my reaction when I accidentally stumbled across this gem. This is my summer jam, hands down, no discussion. Tell me you don't love this. I may not believe you even if you did :)

16) Hanson- Hope It Comes soon

This song has everything I want out of music- a clear and positive message, great vocals, a catchy chorus, and of course actual instrumentals. Taylor's got a very distinct voice that he has developed into an unmistakable sound over the years and this is one of my favorite examples of his vocal ability. I'm pretty partial to music done in the name of philanthropy, so that has a lot to do with why I love this song. It was born during their Take The Walk effort to provide aid to Africa after their visit there.


17) Thousand Foot Krutch- Rawkfist

Ok, if we're being honest, my selection has been a bit swayed thus far. Here's one that's sure to appeal to the guys (and maybe some of the ladies, like myself). Rawkfist is just completely brimming with energy. It's the perfect song to workout to because it doesn't have a moment where it lacks adrenaline. One word to describe it: infectious. The chorus will undoubtedly have you barking or growling or whatever dude sound that is that comes out. All I know is I love it. Fantastic song. Easily one of my husband's all time favorites.

18)  Danyew-Beautiful King

Easily one of the best songs I've heard live in terms of connection with the artist and the lyrics. Very intimate worship song that is not only gorgeous in terms of arrangement, but the depth of the meaning behind it. I do believe I saw him open for David Crowder Band. Amazing.

19) Seabird- Don't You Know You're Beautiful

We had a chance to see these guys open for David Crowder Band as well. It was yet another of those moments where it felt like we were seeing this band as a headlining act, rather than an opener. Their sound is so catchy and real. Obviously there a real talent for writing songs present as well. This is one that I wish every single girl( and guy) aged 9-18 could hear. It could have a great affect on their self esteem during that really difficult, awkward time that they need to be reminded that they're valued.


20) Alicia Keys- Lovin You

This is a sweet little ditty with a lot of soul. I love the simplicity of the lyrics coupled with the passion that backs them. Faulous track to totally geek out to when no one is around to see you belt it out with a hairbrush microphone in your hand. Don't even act like you've never done that, folks! We're all pop stars behind closed doors, it's a cold hard fact.