TOP TEN BEST RAP RECORDS — 2000-2018 (Guest Feature by Jesse Tanner Long)

TOP TEN BEST RAP

RECORDS — 2000-2018

(Guest Feature by Jesse Tanner Long)

__________

Innovative ice cream creator

and songwriter / music producer

Jesse Tanner Long returns with

his latest insightful countdown.

___________

From conception (1993), ’til summer 2000, the

only music I ever really heard was KISS. Thanks,

Mom and Dad. And it came to the point where

I no longer wanted to "rock and roll all night."

However, to  "party every day," that was another

story. I was fortunate to soon be introduced to

the musical stylings of Eminem and Lil Jon.

And for the last 18 years, I've been influenced

heavily by rap music. Here are my Top Ten

best rap record picks so far in the new millennium.

-Jesse Tanner Long

__________

10

LL COOL J

The DEFinition

(Def Jam - 2004)

__________

9

MELLOWHIGH

MellowHigh

(Odd Future - 2013)

__________

8

ODDISEE

The Iceberg

(Mellow Music Group - 2017)

__________

7

CHANCE THE RAPPER

Acid Rap

(Independent - 2013)

__________

6

DANNY BROWN

Old

(Fool's Gold - 2013)

__________

5

RUN THE JEWELS

Run the Jewels 2

(Mass Appeal - 2014)

__________

4

MAC MILLER

Blue Slide Park

(Rostrum Records - 2011)

__________

3

CHILDISH GAMBINO

Camp

(Glassnote - 2011)

__________

2

50 CENT

Get Rich or Die Tryin’

(Interscope 2003)

__________

1

LUDACRIS

Word of Mouf

(Def Jam South - 2001)

_____________

Get the "scoop" on

Jesse Tanner Long's

unique ice cream

creations HERE

____________

BE MY "GUEST!"

Do you have something to say, something to get off your chest or an amazing story to share? From pop culture views and reviews to political commentary to messages of faith, my website is a great platform for writers to showcase their work. There are very limited criteria for submitting a post. Your views don't even have to be in line with mine — just create and contribute a compelling, well-written story. Interested? Send me and email.

-Christopher Long
AuthorChristopherLong@yahoo.com

_____________

MOVIE REVIEW: Peppermint

MOVIE REVIEW

Peppermint

STXfilms / Lakeshore Entertainment

(Released Sept. 7, 2018 / 102 Minutes)

__________

Scumbag drug lords, dirty cops,

a corrupt justice system and a

vengeful wife and mother with

a score to settle. Okay, I'm in!

__________

What parent and / or spouse couldn't sympathize with Riley North? The loving wife and mother witnesses the horrifying, savage murder of her husband and young daughter — gunned-down on the sidewalk at a hometown Christmas carnival by heartless, drug-dealing thugs. Although North also is struck in the line of fire, she survives. Five years later, it's now her mission to avenge her family members' deaths.

Directed by Pierre Morel, Peppermint is what it is — a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat action thriller, and Jennifer Garner offers a heart-stopping performance as North. However, the film also packs an impressive ensemble cast, including John Ortiz as LAPD detective, Moises and John Gallagher Jr. as Moises' partner, Carmichael. Annie Ilonzeh is engaging as FBI agent, Inman and Juan Pablo Raba provides a stand-out performance as the despicable drug lord, Diego Garcia. While his screen time was minimal, Method Man is riveting as Agent Barker. In fact, the story could have likely benefited from more of MM's character. 

Jennifer Garner is powerful in Peppermint.

Simply put, it ain't Chocolat — though I doubt that was the intent. But Peppermint does succeed in delivering exactly what it promises — 100+ minutes worth of action and suspense, with a few "gotcha" twists and turns along the way — all strapped into a roller coaster-style story. AND Jennifer Garner is still super-hot and she sells this role convincingly. While I don't subscribe personally to vigilante-type justice — preferring instead to always embrace forgiveness, Peppermint provides an entertaining "escape," and for me, was well worth the $8.75 admission.

-Christopher Long
(September 2018)

__________

Score the latest books from author

Christopher Long NOW on Amazon!

- SHOUT IT OUT LOUD -

(2014)

- C'MON! -

(2012)

- SUPERSTAR -

(Coming April 7, 2019)

SUNSHINE STATE AUTHOR EXPO @ Open Mike's / Melbourne, FL (10.6.18)

SUNSHINE STATE

AUTHOR EXPO

@ Open Mike's / Melbourne, FL

(10.6.18)

__________

Truth be told, I'm a fervent

supporter of fellow authors

— attending their personal

appearances and buying

their books. As a result, I'm

honored and delighted to be

part of this fantastic event.

__________

Personally, I find the in-store meet-and-greet aspect of book promotions to be incredibly rewarding. As I've traveled to various chain outlets and indie shops across the country, it's been my distinct pleasure to connect with folks of all ages who typically are less impressed by my past rock and roll exploits and more intrigued by the fact that I'm an author. It's particularly refreshing to talk to kids who possess a genuine passion for reading and writing. In fact, I find myself signing many books to teens and pre-teens, encouraging them to stay in school, study diligently and achieve good grades. Holy cow, I’ve become my father! 

My first book tour.
(Melbourne, FL 2010)

Needless to say, I'm quite excited about appearing at the upcoming Sunshine State Author Expo being held right in my own hometown. Moderated by Canadian author, popular podcast host and outspoken music critic, Brent Jensen (No Sleep 'Til Sudbury, Leftover People, All My Favourite People Are Broken), the expo will take place at Open Mike's Coffee Lounge in Melbourne, Florida on Saturday / October 6, 2018 from 1-4pm.

Brent Jensen mugging with Macon, GA
fans while on his 2013 U.S. book tour.

Author Amy Sweezey at 2015
Orlando book launch party.

Featuring guest authors, TV meteorologist Amy Sweezey (It Never, Ever Snows in Florida, Let's Talk Weather), award-winning children's / YA author Jaimie Engle (Clifton Chase and the Arrow of Light, The Dredge, Dreadlands), career advancement expert Amy Davies (Be, Leave), and myself (C'MON, Shout it Out Loud, Superstar), the expo will offer a lively panel discussion of various publishing and creative writing-related topics as well as an audience-driven Q&A session and individual meet-and-greet experiences with each author.

Author Jaimie Engle at 2017 school book event.

Author and career advancement expert, Amy Davies.

Boasting a super-chic atmosphere and offering an array of signature coffees and unique, taste-tempting menu options, Open Mike's is one of Florida's premier east coast venues. Of the upcoming author expo, owner Mike Della Cioppa commented recently, "We're thrilled to be hosting such an impressive and distinguished event."

Open to enthusiasts of all ages, this informative and interactive event is FREE to the public and promises a plethora of door prize giveaways — an awesome, educational experience for the entire family.

THE SUNSHINE STATE AUTHOR EXPO: Meet the Authors. Hear Some Stories. Ask the Questions. Get Some Tips. See ya there!

-Christopher Long
(September 2018)

__________

Score the latest books from author

Christopher Long NOW on Amazon!

- SHOUT IT OUT LOUD -

(2014)

- C'MON! -

(2012)

- SUPERSTAR -

(Coming April 7, 2019)

MOVIE REVIEW: "F.R.E.D.I." (Guest Feature by Bryan Dumas)

MOVIE REVIEW

F.R.E.D.I.

Skipstone Pictures

Running Time 1 hr 30 min

(Guest Feature by Bryan Dumas)

____________

It's been quite some time

since we've heard from guest

contributor, Bryan Dumas.

However, he returns with

a review of a film that has

piqued his interest recently

on many different levels.

____________

Truth be told, I don’t go out to see too many movies these days. The big multiplex theaters just don’t feel like a place to view “art” — especially when today's “art” has become defined by computer-generated animation, with actors placed in front of green screens. But I managed to man-up and venture out this weekend. I'd purchased my ticket online in advance, and I was all ready to enjoy a comfy, reclining leather seat in a thoroughly modern, state-of-the-art theater — the Skylight Cinema in my hometown, Bentonville, Arkansas,

Filmed primarily on location here in Bentonville, F.R.E.D.I. is a new, family-friendly feature with many identifiable sites just steps away from the theater. As a result, the place was packed — energized by a great vibe, as I soon discovered several of the locals featured in the movie were in attendance at this particular showing.

Lucius Hoyos as James, with F.R.E.D.I.

I came in to the screening a bit skeptical, as the movie’s trailer felt a bit too familiar. Shades of E.T., and WALL-E, as well as a host of “teenagers fighting the bad guys” films were clearly apparent. So, would this just be a predictable re-telling of another tale? While the story is somewhat familiar, the approach is quite fresh in many ways. For starters, this is a “real” movie, shot with actors in front of cameras on actual locations, not just sets. Even "F.R.E.D.I." is “real,” in that an actual robotic puppet was created for most scenes, giving the actors something to respond to.

So, how did creator and producer, Johnny Remo, transform this familiar-feeling story into a fresh, fun film that's got people buzzing? It's simple, by combining believable actors with engaging, relatable characters. The three teenage friends at the center of the story, James (Lucius Hoyos), Danny (Reid Miller) and Natalie (Casimere Jollette) are kids we all know, and like — not the "hyper-complicated" teens presented by Hollywood way too often these days.

The fabulous teenage cast of F.R.E.D.I.

For the most part, the adult actors and characters shine as well. Kelly Hu sparkles as F.R.E.D.I.'s creator, Dr. Andi Palmer. Hu has a screen-filling presence that begs for more time. Angus Macfadyen does a fantastic job portraying the film's main villain, Grant. His two henchmen, Williams (Christina Cox) and Brody (Texas Battle) have a great X-Files-like appeal while still being good for a few laughs. Played by Tyler Christopher, James' dad, Randy, starts out a little low-energy. However, by the end, he's engaged fully. Harvey Guillen plays Lopez, a scientist tasked with finding F.R.E.D.I. and providing comic relief. His goofy nature stuck out in a movie that otherwise shunned stereotypes for more relatable characters. Finally, Candace Cameron Bure as the voice of F.R.E.D.I. also worked quite well.

F.R.E.D.I. was thoroughly enjoyable. The movie and its cast have won numerous awards at recent film festivals and has earned as many accolades as just about any major motion picture released in the last year or so. And I certainly believe it would have done extremely well in wider release over this past summer season. Fortunately, it will be available on DVD and Blu-ray on October 9, 2018. 

-Bryan Dumas
(September 2018)

fredimovie.com

____________________

BE MY "GUEST!"

Do you have something to say, something to get off your chest or an amazing story to share? From pop culture views and reviews to political commentary to messages of faith, my website is a great platform for writers to showcase their work. There are very limited criteria for submitting a post. Your views don't even have to be in line with mine — just create and contribute a compelling, well-written story. Interested? Send me and email.

-Christopher Long
AuthorChristopherLong@yahoo.com

____________________

ACE FREHLEY - "Spaceman" (Iconic Kiss Guitarist Launches New Studio Set)

ACE FREHLEY

"Spaceman"

Iconic Kiss Guitarist

Launches New Studio Set

(Entertainment One / 10.19.18)

___________

Seemingly sober and focused

fully, he's clearly on a roll. Yes,

"Ace is back and he told you so."

___________

Despite taking a whopping 20 years to complete his fifth solo studio set, Anomaly (2009), Ace Frehley clearly is now on a roll. In fact, this fall, the iconic co-founding KISS lead guitarist and Rock And Roll Hall of Fame inductee returns with Spaceman, his third full-length record in just four years.

Driven by the signature-style riffage that has made him a living legend, the record's debut single, "Bronx Boy," received high praise from fans and critics alike when it debuted earlier this spring. And just this month, the second (and equally familiar-feeling) single from Spaceman, "Rockin' with the Boys," also arrived via iTunes. Recounting tales of life on the road, Frehley proclaims, "No need to worry, I'll be home soon, 'cause I'm rockin' with the boys." Frehley reportedly wrote the original version of the song during KISS' glory days in the '70s.

"Rockin' with the Boys," the latest single

from Ace Frehley - dig it on YouTube.

Brimming with WOW-factor, the nine-track collection promises a rather unlikely cover of the Eddie Money classic, "I Wanna Go Back," as well as guest bass performances from Frehley's former bandmate, Gene Simmons on "Without You I'm Nothing" (co-written by Simmons) and "Your Wish Is My Command."  

Ace Frehley, Spaceman — coming October 19, 2018 (Entertainment One)

Track Listing:

01. Without You I'm Nothing  

02. Rockin' With the Boys  

03. Your Wish Is My Command 

04. Bronx Boy  

05. Pursuit Of Rock and Roll  

06. I Wanna Go Back  

07. Mission To Mars 

 08. Off My Back  

09. Quantum Flux

-Christopher Long

(August 2018)

__________

Discover my other

KISS-related features

HERE

__________

Score the latest books from author

Christopher Long NOW on Amazon!

- SHOUT IT OUT LOUD -

(2014)

- C'MON! -

(2012)

- SUPERSTAR -

(Coming April 7, 2019)

MOVIE REVIEW: "An Interview with God"

MOVIE REVIEW

An Interview with God

Astute Films

Running time: 1:37

Limited release - August 20-22, 2018

___________

A personal encounter with God. 
While hardly a new film premise,
it appeared polished enough here
to pique my curiosity and interest.
"Two $13.38 adult 7pm tickets to
An Interview with God, please."

___________

Directed by Perry Lang, An Interview with God succeeds in showing moviegoers just how God "meets" us "where we are," through offering himself (in human form) to a conflicted young journalist for a series of sit-down interviews. During the three, 30-minute meetings, the journalist is allowed to ask God anything. Hmm. A logical question might then be, "What would you ask?" Food for thought, indeed.

Portrayed convincingly by David Strathairn, "God" seemingly becomes annoyed early on by journalist Paul Asher's (Brenton Thwaites) mundane initial line of questioning. "God" then challenges Paul to guess his "#1 most-asked question." Paul replies, "Why do bad things happen to good people?" "God" fires back, "Exactly!" Ugh, FYI, "God" got it wrong. While that might be the #1 question projected by today's porcelain-polished, soft-serve religious gurus, it's actually a cleverly disguised distraction.

Brent Thwaites (L) as Paul Asher
David Stratharin (R) as God.

If offering an entertaining feel-good that simply initiates a faith-based dialog was the film's primary purpose, then it delivers in spades. However, if it was truly meant to address the bigger picture issue of our ultimate eternal salvation, then An Interview with God falls flat. In fact, there's only ONE question to be asked in this scenario, "Is Jesus Christ the Messiah — the way, the truth and the life?" And that's where the movie misses the mark. While Paul (an acknowledged expert in religion) mentions Jesus by name ONCE, "God" seems to kinda shrug off the comment. "God" does suggest that there is only "one path" to salvation, however, he never reveals what that "path" is. He shoots from the three-point line and — he misses! Oh, what a crushing defeat for the home team!

Be sure, the film looks great. The general premise — engaging. The cast — talented and deliciously attractive. But truth be told, any faith-based film attempting to tackle the salvation message effectively without including Jesus, is about as ineffective as Gene and Paul showing up onstage at the Google Dome without Ace and Peter.

Charlbi Dean, Hill Harper and Yael Grobglas
comprise a talented and attractive support cast.

Despite offering an overall compelling story line, An Interview with God has other flaws. Was Paul's splintered marriage to Sarah ever reconciled? Was Paul's time (as "God" suggested) truly "running out?" And what was the relevance of Paul's mysterious (yet never seen) friend, Matt? Crucial aspects of the story that were left unresolved.

As for the aforementioned salvation-factor, the name of Jesus Christ is proclaimed during the on-screen, post film panel discussion. However, the fluff-filled conversation lacks significant bite.

In sum, An Interview with God — So much promise. So little payoff.

-Christopher Long
(August 2018)

__________

Score the latest books from author

Christopher Long NOW on Amazon!

- SHOUT IT OUT LOUD -

(2014)

- C'MON! -

(2012)

- SUPERSTAR -

(Coming April 7, 2019)

MOVIE REVIEW: "Summer of '67"

MOVIE REVIEW

Summer of '67

Mainstreet Productions

Released: June 2018

Running Time: 83 minutes

__________

An authentic American
tale set during troubled
times. Count me in!

__________

Written and directed by Sharon Wilharm and produced by Fred Wilharm, Summer of '67 is the seventh independent feature for the husband and wife filmmaking duo. And as the title indicates, the story unfolds during the turbulent sociopolitical era of the mid-late 1960s.

The story line is intriguing — sisters, Milly and Kate, witness the shocking suicide of their mother in the early '50s. As the plot develops, the two siblings each grow up to become involved with men heading off to Vietnam. And they soon both face the question of whether or not their man will return home from the war.

Cameron Gilliam as Gerald (L) and Rachel Schrey as Milly (R)

Sam Brooks as Van (L) and Bethany Davenport as Kate (R)

Now a young wife and mother, Milly is forced to live with her mother-in-law, Joanna, while her husband, Gerald, is away on the USS Forrestal. At the same time, Kate must choose between her high school sweetheart, Peter, and her new hippie boyfriend, Van. Kate's family maid and close friend, Ruby Mae, discovers true love as well with her new boyfriend, Reggie, only to have him also whisked away by the war.

Although touted as a Christian film — one based on events surrounding the real life tragedy of the USS Forrestal, Summer of '67 doesn't clobber viewers with overt rhetoric, or with a heavy message. Simply put, Summer of '67 merely tells an engaging, family-friendly story about people struggling to "do" life together during one of our nation's most difficult times.

Jerrold Edwards as Reggie (L) and Sharonne Lanier as Ruby Mae (R)

Rachel Schrey as Milly (L) and Mimi Sagadin as Joanna (R)

As a "period" piece, the film scores high marks. The scenery, wardrobe, classic cars and even some of the soundtrack music all add authenticity to the production.

An independent film, Summer of '67 may be a bit tough to find, as it currently is only showing at select events throughout the summer of '18. As a fan of independent films, I was grateful and delighted to experience a private screening of the movie, and I look forward to enjoying the Wilharm's future work.

-Christopher Long
(August 2018)

__________

Summer of '67 online:

- Official Website - Twitter - Facebook - Youtube -

__________

Score the latest books from author

Christopher Long NOW on Amazon!

- SHOUT IT OUT LOUD -

(2014)

- C'MON! -

(2012)

- SUPERSTAR -

(Coming April 7, 2019)