Almost As Fun As Drowning

The time has come! It's taken them forever, but Paramount Home Entertainment finally announced yesterday that Daria The Complete Animated Series is coming to DVD on May 11, 2010! All five seasons plus the two movies; god my heart just stopped. And the release date is just in time for my birthday, which means I'll either be hasty and buy it as a gift for myself, or I'll let someone else get it for me and then proceed to slather them with love. Hope they're prepared for that. I haven't been this excited for a new release since the last Mystik Spiral record came out!

Hello, I'm Jerri Blank.

Sometimes when I'm feeling down I just pop in a Strangers With Candy DVD and let my cares just slip away. There's nothing like a little Jerri Blank to turn my frown upside down. Amy Sedaris' work absolute is genius, with her contorted face and Comfort Zone outfits, and with the addition of supporting characters played by Stephen Colbert and Paul Dinello you've got a classic comedic gem that stands the test of time. I truly judge people based on whether or not they like this show - it is perhaps for some an acquired taste, but once devoured let the cravings begin.

Have You Heard?

Young? Check. Flannel-clad? Check. Dorky yet incredibly endearing? Check. Ok, so Florida's Surfer Blood may be the new kids on the block, but that doesn't mean they can't rock the socks off of us old foggies. Since I listened to their self titled record a few weeks back, I have not been able to take it out of rotation. I listen to it at least once a day, and in many different situations. Whether I'm riding the subway, folding laundry, rocking out in my apartment, or cooking, this record has not lost its initial appeal. Part Beach Boys, part early 90s independent rock, its the band's intricate guitar work and catchy melodies that has turned me into a total addict. Their first music video the single 'Swim' premiered on Pitchfork this week, and yet fans continue to make basic YouTube videos just so we can all access these lil' gems. The video below is for one of my favorite tracks off the record 'Take It Easy,' and the bass line alone could keep my interest for hours. Can't wait to see them in Brooklyn later this month. Oh you silly, talented, amazing kids.

That's Money, Honey

Craig Gleason makes these amazing (yet possibly illegal) Gaga dollars. His blog is totally bonkers, and full of his strange illustrations - think Ren & Stimpy goes phallic... very phallic. Visit his blog but know that if you're a prude (read: lame) you may be offended.

An Urban Dictionary

I've never been a fan of Will & Grace, but I always thought there was something truly genius about Megan Mullally's character 'Karen'. Apparently Mullally is really good at playing whacked out female leads, and after watching this Funny or Die clip you'll agree with me that she really is a pro. Tom Lennon (The State, Reno 911) also contributes his own brand of humor to the sketch, but it's Mullally's horned-up-foul-mouthed 'Kim' that steals the show. How they came up with the idea for the piece is beyond me, but I should know by now to never question comedic brilliance. Enjoy!

Smokey's Pissed!

For The Love of Food

There are some foods that are embedded in our minds and hearts, because they trigger memories of carefree childhoods and family gatherings. The memories are triggered through the sounds and smells of a dish - the flavor that was once delicious and comforting, has become loaded with countless meanings. All this to say that authentic Venezuelan food takes me back to my grandmother's kitchen, watching her unwrap hallacas, and slice through thick fudge-like dulce de leche. Thankfully I don't have to travel all the way to Venezuela to get a taste of the past, since a Venezuelan restaurant just happened to pop up on my corner in December. I was so excited to see that the long abandoned space was finally getting a makeover, and completely floored to find that the menu posted in its front window was chock full of Venezuelan treats from my childhood! Guayoyo has everything you could ever want from an authentic Venezuelan culinary experience: fresh tasty homemade food, excellent music, affordable prices, and a helpful waitstaff willing to enlighten and educate even the most timid patron. This place is for real. After my first bite I knew I was home... or at least around the corner.

Pictured above the carne mechada and camarones arepas from Guayoyo; photography by Natalia Moena.

A City That Breathes

After baring witness to Jonte's unbelievable performance last night at Santos Party House there is no doubt in my mind that New York City is still the place for up and coming musicians. The talent that surrounds choreographer/musician/artist Jonte' is overflowing - the passion that is seen in his performance is riveting. It's always inspiring to see talented people join forces, and Jonte's crew is a perfect example of that. From the costumes, to the choreography, you can tell that details reign supreme. Just like Gaga, Jonte' is the whole package - and the some. I cannot wait to see what 2010 will bring for this dashing talent. Check out the latest video for his latest single "Ya Who!" which already has Japanese audiences screaming for more: