September 06, 2021

CAT STRICKLAND: Ethereal Singer/Songwriter Strikes Magical Chord with South Carolina Music Fans

CAT STRICKLAND
Ethereal Singer/Songwriter
Strikes Magical Chord with
South Carolina Music Fans
__________

There were discus-sized fried
green tomatoes, fluffy waffles
(an inch thick), and Nilla-crusted
chicken breasts. But at Mount
Pleasant's world-famous Page's
Okra Grill, there was more cookin'
that what was on the menu.
___________

By 10am it already was pushing 90° and the line of perspiring, hungry patrons waiting outside to be seated was hopelessly long. The plan was that my posse would have rolled up at Page's much earlier. I'd traveled to South Carolina from Florida to DJ a private event the day before. But the after-party ran well into the night, so we'd gotten a later start than expected that next morning.

All considering, the wait wasn't terribly long, maybe 20 minutes. Initially, we had no preference. The first available table was fine, inside or outside. It didn't matter. I just needed to destroy one of those fluffy waffles — ASAP. As luck would have it, we wound up outdoors.

As our hostess took us from the waiting area and down the sidewalk leading around back to the breezy dining patio, I couldn't help but notice that there were happy puppies everywhere — lounging in the sunshine, tethered to tables and generally chillaxin' at nearly all points in between. The lovable lab and the perky poodle were my two faves. As we approached the patio, I also noticed the distinctive, groovy music playing — probably a random Sunday morning playlist. Siri, play happy, breezy, sunny, fluffy waffle songs for people and puppies!

But the joke was on me. The music wasn't a Siri studio playlist. It was live. As I came around the corner, there she was — an airbrushed princess with a "gently loved" acoustic guitar in-hand. Sporting neon green hair and possessing a gypsy chic fashion sense, she could have been the angelic love child of the Gold Dust Woman and Ziggy Stardust — singing and playing "Superstar" (of course) — the iconic 1969 Bonnie Bramlett / Leon Russell collab recreated most famously by The Carpenters in 1971. What? The Carpenters? Really? In 2021? Hey NASA, I think I just discovered an alien!

Cat Strickland performing at Page's Okra Grill.

While my peeps settled in at our table and began perusing menu options, I made a beeline to the little makeshift stage area. "Lil' Ms. Gold Dust" had just segued into a soulful acoustic rendition of a Pretenders number and I embraced two objectives; 1) Confirm that this being was an actual human life form. 2) Stuff a wad of cash into her massive shiny tip bucket. As it turned out, she was in fact a human — and a darn sweet one at that. She allowed me to get a photo with her, then I promised to go away, eat my fluffy waffle and not pester her any further.

As her magical hit parade ensued, I became more and more captivated (along with everyone else who was within earshot), as she not only was engaging, and her voice was honest and pure, but her set list was an eclectic collection of cozies that included golden old timey classics from Foo Fighters, Weezer and The Cranberries plus SUPER old timey tunes from The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac and a slew of others. 

Then it got wacky. On her break, she came up to our table and struck up a legit conversation — a rather brave and bold move in today's less than intimate iUniverse — particularly impressive given her immediate confession that she was only 20. Also, come to find out, her name really wasn't "Lil' Ms. Gold Dust," as she introduced herself to us (with physical handshakes) as Cat Strickland, a local Charleston area singer / songwriter who was putting herself through college by playing live music.

A genuinely likable and unassuming gal, Cat confessed that her parents had a big influence on her music interests, turning her on at an early age to "old" music by the likes of Steely Dan. She further revealed that her folks were less fond of her personal "weird '80s goth" faves such as Cocteau Twins. She also counts Stevie Nicks among her biggest musical inspirations. Ah-ha! I knew it!

Simply put, Cat Strickland is a true treasure. And if she isn't the hardest-working musician on the South Carolina scene, she's gotta come darn close to earning that distinction. She seemingly plays everywhere in and around Charleston and she's well-worth seeing and hearing for yourself. And if you catch her at Pages, you gotta try the fluffy waffles!

-Christopher Long
(September 2021)

__________

CAT STRICKLAND
SOCIALS
__________



- GARAGE SALE VINYL -
(2024)
Amazon
Barnes & Nobles
Books-A-Million
__________

- A SHOT OF POISON -
"10th Anniversary Edition"
(2020)
__________

- SUPERSTAR -
(2019)
__________

- SHOUT IT OUT LOUD -
(2014)
Amazon
__________

- C'MON! -
(2012)
Amazon

August 16, 2021

TO MOSH OR NOT TO MOSH: The Summer Season Sizzles Amid a Cluster of COVID Concerns and Conspiracies

TO MOSH OR
NOT TO MOSH
The Summer Season Sizzles
Amid a Cluster of COVID
Concerns and Conspiracies
__________

When a health crisis becomes
horrendously mismanaged and
politicized, it's tough to know
what to believe. And as the
temperatures soar this summer,
we really gotta keep our cool.
__________

An esteemed colleague from the entertainment biz sent me a link the other day to an interesting USA Today feature story on the recent Lollapalooza Music Festival. Held at Grant Park in Chicago, the iconic annual hoo-ha featured an eclectic array of marquee artists, including Foo Fighters, Post Malone, Miley Cyrus, Megan Thee Stallion, Marshmello, Journey, Dababy, and Tyler, the Creator. The event generated an estimated 375,000 turnstile ticks throughout its July 29th - August 1st run. Reportedly, each ticket holder was required to show proof of COVID vaccination upon entry.

After shaking off the initial shock of Journey performing on the same bill as Ms. Stallion, the story gripped my attention tighter, as it brought to light several points I've struggled with myself during the 18-month COVID crisis; the inconsistencies (Wear a mask / Don't wear a mask / Wear two masks), the confusion (You can do "that" here, but not there), the political arrogance (Do for thee, but not for me), the misinformation (The pandemic is over — no more masks / The pandemic is here to stay — mask up). And apparently the virus can't be transmitted in groups of X-number. But a group of X-number+1 is a super-spreader. Heck, it's enough to make a "deplorable" even nuttier, and a "lefty" even loonier.

In recent weeks, the frustration factor has ramped up further as it's been confirmed in the face of the delta variant outbreak that vaccines ARE the foolproof solution — sorta. Huh? Particularly troubling is how the official inconsistent guv'ment responses have fueled public panic, widespread fear and Walmart fistfights.

There's been no true, sound leadership on either side of the fence. And Fauci has proven to be, um — less than credible. At times it can seem like they're all just making this shit up as they go along. Hmm. Too often it could be perceived as if the "peasants" are being played by the "rulers" purely for political purposes. Let them eat cake! Had the vaccine been available on the Trump watch, we were warned in advance by the "smart people" to fear "the jab." Orange man bad! But since it arrived to the general public after the election, we are commanded by the same people to DO IT! DO IT NOW! TAKE THE F-ING SHOT, OR ELSE — YOU IGNORANT, RECKLESS FOOLS!

Just last week, faded Hollywood superstar and former California governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, took time out from banging the maid to wag his Montecristo in the faces of defiant anti-vaxers. "Screw your freedom," he scolded, as if he's even remotely relevant anymore. My personal aversion to the COVID vaccine is not informed by a freedom-fighting spirit. I just recognize that this whole thing is sketch A.F. Truth be told, I don't trust any of "them" — not Biden, not Trump, not Fauci, not the CDC, the WHO, the DNC, the RNC, the PTA or the IRS. So, "screw" YOU, Arnie!

We're told to "follow the science." But even science has become politicized. Considering the sources, my concern is that "following the science" now might lead us all right off the edge of the flat earth.

So, what about all the widely-reported public gatherings this summer? Personally, I maintain that the pandemic has continued to be a real threat since March 2020. Although I love seeing things coming back to normal, I still have to ask, what's really changed since the three weeks we were told to hunker-down in order to "flatten the curve?" Not much that I can see.

If Lollapalooza is "safe" now, that's fantastic — let's move on. But why wasn't it safe last year? Sure, we have the vaccine now, but we also have the new delta variant, compromising the vaccine's effectiveness. As a result, to offer a football analogy, the chain hasn't budged but a yard downfield. And it would be nice if the goalposts weren't being moved constantly.

What has changed is that commerce now no longer has any patience for a public heath crisis. The economy has to get moving again. And I totally agree — it shouldn't have been shut down to begin with. Chicago mayor, Lori Lightfoot took the Palooza payday last month (as she should have) and former president Obama partied the other night with the "sophisticated" elites (as he should have). But they received relatively little criticism compared to what got heaped on those "Neanderthals" at Sturgis.

We're all emotionally fatigued right now. But one sure-fire way to bounce back is by going out and living life. Just back off (if possible), mask up (if necessary), take the shot (if led), make smart, responsible choices and for goodness sake, let's knock off the name-calling. And BTW, never (ever) "bow" to tyranny.

-Christopher Long
(August 2021)
__________



- GARAGE SALE VINYL -
(2024)
Amazon
Barnes & Nobles
Books-A-Million
__________

- A SHOT OF POISON -
"10th Anniversary Edition"
(2020)
__________

- SUPERSTAR -
(2019)
__________

- SHOUT IT OUT LOUD -
(2014)
Amazon
__________

- C'MON! -
(2012)
Amazon

July 12, 2021

BOOK REVIEW: Jesse Watters "How I Saved the World"

BOOK REVIEW
How I Saved
the World
- Jesse Watters -
Broadside Books
ISBN-13: 978-0063049086
__________

Like that time I took
Tammy Snodgrass to
the Senior Prom, the
just-released memoir
from Jesse Watters was
a uniquely satisfying
experience.
__________

More than ever before, today's ravenous television viewers crave an exceedingly potent supplement in their cable news diet. And nobody in the biz meets that consumer demand better than the culinary crew at FOX News.

Truth be told, "Team FOX" is comprised of rock star personalities who are just more interesting than their pedestrian competitors. C'mon now, you tell me — regardless of which side of the political fence you reside, if you're lookin' for a good time, what's it gonna be — a semi-formal soiree at Rachel Maddow's, or a bottoms-optional pool party at Kennedy's? I mean, an all-day ordeal at the DMV with Greg Gutfeld has got to be more fun than an all-night excursion in da club with Don Lemon. Right? Then there's Dana Perino. Who wouldn't want to be her dog? But I digress.

So, when I heard that FOX News poster boy Jesse Watters was set to drop a book this summer, I sorta felt a little tingle, not unlike the one that ran down Chris Matthews' left leg during Obama's inauguration. Hence, I snatched up a copy posthaste once it hit store shelves last week.

Many years ago, I was blessed to be mentored by an amazing author. As I struggled with crafting my first novel, the seasoned vet took me under his wing and offered invaluable guidance. "Quarantine your reader at PAGE ONE," he said. "And keep 'em paralyzed," he added. Apparently, Watters got that same memo, as he paralyzes readers successfully with How I Saved the World.

Have you ever read a celeb memoir — maybe by a famous rock star? Onstage, the musician typically can barely stand up, and in interviews, they're a total train wreck. Yet, you open their book, and the same musician speaks like a card-carrying Mensa member. Wait, what? Alright, admit it! You did NOT write your own book! Well, that's not the case here. Watters' unique voice rings as loud and clear as Lil Nas X yammerin' at a Gay Pride parade.

As a conservative Christian who contributes pop culture features to various entertainment news outlets, I have to choke down all kinds of content that doesn't line up with my personal compass. As a result of my learned ability to remove that "stick" from my nether region, I've discovered (and enjoyed) many films, an array of records, and a bounty of books I might otherwise have missed. Conversely, if readers from the other side of that fence cut Watters the same slack, they'd find that the dapper Watters' World host has quite an entertaining tale. And he might even be almost likable. Maybe. Relax — I said, maybe.

Watters' conversational style, personal experiences, political insights, and razor-sharp wit are key components in his compelling story — one that delivers tremendous payoff, from his account of a certain harrowing NYC subway ride to recollections of being raised by ultra-liberal parents to the startling revelation that during his time working at The O'Reilly Factor, many staff members were... democrats. WTF? That doesn't fit the script!

His lifelong work ethic is impressive. Earning his current celebrated FOX status, Watters "did what (he) was told," as he climbed the ladder from the basement newsroom to the executive boardroom, from behind-the-scenes anonymity to front-and-center notoriety. Watters cooks with gas, reflecting on his past journalistic missions, from Hollywood high-clearance events to a Florida nude beach resort to an Ivy League gay sex party. He even once rescued the baby Jesus from the clutches of Satan. Sorta. Love him or hate him, How I Saved the World is as edge-of-your-seat riveting as it is laugh-out-loud funny. And as Watters himself points out frequently throughout, he's "the nicest guy in the world."

From puffed-up to self-deprecating, Watters' engaging and candid sense of humor drives the story, as he takes readers on his 300-page ambush — making friends, burning bridges, and dropping names all along the way. However, a few names have been changed, e.g. Ruddy Balzac — priceless. And his mom's near-endless slew of scathing text messages are hilarious.

Even Watters might confess that the book's bold title may overreach a smidge. Clearly a multi-tasker, he pecks at his keyboard while winking at his audience simultaneously. And by not taking himself too seriously, he lets us all in on the gag. Although I'd dispute the claim that he "saved the world," for a guy like me who was starved for a seasonal treat, Watters definitely at least saved my summer.

-Christopher Long
(July 2021)
__________


- GARAGE SALE VINYL -
(2024)
Amazon
Barnes & Nobles
Books-A-Million
__________

- A SHOT OF POISON -
"10th Anniversary Edition"
(2020)
__________

- SUPERSTAR -
(2019)
__________

- SHOUT IT OUT LOUD -
(2014)
Amazon
__________

- C'MON! -
(2012)
Amazon

January 20, 2021

BOOK REVIEW: Dr. Larry Ollison "A Place Called Heaven"

BOOK REVIEW
A Place
Called Heaven
- Dr. Larry Ollison -
(Harrison House Publishers)
__________

Where do we go when
we die? What will
Heaven look like?
What will we look like
when we get there? 
__________

Truth be told, I'd been saved since I was a little kid, way back in the early '70s. But my salvation merely was a "fire insurance policy" I purchased based on concerns raised in Vacation Bible School. It was then and there when I learned how Jesus was the Son of God, and through "accepting" Him as my "Savior," I would escape eternal hell fire and damnation — an easy sell, especially when you're eight.

My eternity was sealed. I had comfort in knowing I'd purchased a solid "policy." But it was based ALL on religion — the very force that ultimately would push me away from God as I discovered "sex, drugs & rock and roll" in my teens. It wasn't until after decades of pursuing that misguided lifestyle that I experienced what old school church folk refer to as a bona fide "come to Jesus" moment. And at age 48, I finally grasped the relationship factor of my policy. I've said it (many times) before, but I'll say it again (and again) — there's a BIG difference between religion and relationship.

In short order, I became so passionate about living for Jesus and sharing the Good News gospel, I jumped head first into writing my second book. Released in January 2012, C'MON! reflected a decidedly bigger, better and brighter message than I offered in my 2010 debut memoir.

While it certainly is true that "iron sharpens iron" (Proverbs 27:17 / NLT), it also is true (sadly) that little can squelch the passion of a Christian quite as effectively as the input of other Christians. Those people can be a nasty bunch, sometimes.

When I first began pitching the initial C'MON! manuscript in late 2011, I received a scathing email response from one particular prominent Christian literary agent. Instead of offering me a "pat on the back," he delivered a "punch to the privates" — revealing how I was an uneducated fraud — ill-equipped and unqualified to offer a worthy testimony. And if I truly wanted to honor God, I needed to "shut up." But I didn't allow this fella to squelch my passion. I took his condemnation as a challenge. I plugged into a church home and began serving. In no time, I was involved in youth ministry and I even enrolled in Bible college. Two years later, I headed out on my first of several international missionary trips. BTW, I now hold a degree in Bible Studies. Yeah, I'm shocked too!

It was during my Bible college experience when our class was assigned to read Life is in the Blood, by a celebrated author I'd never heard of before. His name — Larry Ollison. In short order, I adopted the Walk on the Water Faith Church pastor as my quasi-spiritual life coach. I've now read every one of Dr. Ollison's books, and he's something of a buddy — although we've never met. Ollison has become the wise old owl who I hang out with, as I tear through the pages of his various titles during my morning devotions at my favorite local java joint.

The cool thing about Ollison is he never talks over his readers. He's no "Mr. Smarty Pants." He always speaks to his readers — which is particularly helpful (and appreciated), especially for a reformed Nugent nut like me.

The older I get, the more I seek, and the more I realize just how little I know. Thanks for a spirit of humility, Jesus. Hence, despite that diploma hanging on my wall, I still can get hung up on various aspects of Bible study.

At various times in the Bible, Jesus challenges us to trust him. He even once got a bit ticked off with his disciples — referring to them as, “faithless people!" (Mark 9:19 NLT). As one who does trust Him, completely, I have total confidence in having an "eternal home" — one that's far more marvelous than my pea-sized brain can fathom. So, when it comes to details regarding Heaven, my (humble) kneejerk reaction often is, "Who cares?" — God's "got me" on this, so why sweat it. However, based on the relationship factor outlined in my "fire insurance policy," I continue seeking knowledge and understanding. Thanks to Dr. Ollison, I have a qualified "advisor" (Proverbs 11:14 NLT) to hook me and reel me in.

In his latest book, A Place Called Heaven, Ollison breaks down "end times," while painting a vivid portrait of eternity in his typical engaging, conversational style — with the wisdom and knowledge of some of my other favorite Christian Living authors, including the late Warren W. Wiersbe and Kenneth E. Hagin.

Where do we go when we die? What will Heaven look like? What will we look like when we get there? Will there be reruns of Match Game shown in Heaven? While Ollison doesn't address all of those questions, he hits the biggies.

One of Ollison's frequent go-to bullet points is, "the power of the blood." And as a result of the blood shed by Jesus, Ollison reveals there ain't no "purgatory." Ha — take THAT one, "man-made religion!" However, for believers, there is a wonderful period in "Paradise" (Luke 23:43 NLT).  Hooray for RELATIONSHIP! But, as they say, "Wait! There's more!" Church Age believers need not fear the Tribulation, as we already will have been rescued to Paradise during the Rapture.

Ollison's writing style speaks plainly to the Everyman. However, A Place Called Heaven isn't a "light" or "quick" read. In fact, it's a comprehensive college course, crammed into a concise 250 pages. And even for as smart as I am (that's sarcasm, BTW), I still can get a bit overwhelmed by trying to process the enormity of the topic. Heck, I'm still hung up on the great Ginger vs. Mary Ann debate.

The myriad life experiences Ollison weaves in makes the content all the more relatable. And his first-hand accounts of others' testimonies, as well as his music-related perspectives and other personal insights further strengthen the narrative.

I once worked as an assistant for a world-famous, platinum-selling rock star. While traveling with him across the country in his luxury tour bus on various big-time arena concert tours, he only ate at established "name" restaurants (e.g. Olive Garden, P.F. Chang's, Outback, etc.) — even if we were in a major city, near an indie restaurant known for its unique cuisine, he only trusted name-brand eateries. As he told me, they created a consistent, quality product, and you always knew what you were gonna get. I'm the same way with the Christian authors whose work I consume. The message is far too important for me to trust a potentially unreliable messenger. In that regard, it could be said that with A Place Called Heaven, Larry Ollison proves (once again) to be the "Cracker Barrel" of Christian Living authors. Mmm, Mmm! I just LOVE their dumplings!

-Christopher Long
(January 2021)
__________


- GARAGE SALE VINYL -
(2024)
Amazon
Barnes & Nobles
Books-A-Million
__________

- A SHOT OF POISON -
"10th Anniversary Edition"
(2020)
__________

- SUPERSTAR -
(2019)
__________

- SHOUT IT OUT LOUD -
(2014)
Amazon
__________

- C'MON! -
(2012)
Amazon
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