Who's afraid of the big, bad, vampire?

I have an unhealthy obsession with HBO's "True Blood". By that I mean, I ordered "TruBlood" the drink, and it'll be here later today. I also get pee-my-pants excited when 8 p.m. on Sunday's roll around. Sadly, or not, it's the highlight of my week. Indeed, the popularity of the show seems to imply there is a "fang-banger" in all of us waiting to get out.With the season finale airing on Sunday, I started to think critically about the show, and the themes within. Besides just the sex and gore, there are serious social issues imbedded within the context of the series. These include religious fanatacism, homophobia and fear of "the other". What I find most interesting about this mix is the way in which the characters represent the fears and prejudices that are harbored within all of us. Though the show is centered around vampires "coming out of the coffin" and assimilating (successfully or not) into modern society, it's inevitably also about relationships between the "normal" and "un-normal". This is where the concept of "the other" comes into play. Don't worry, I'm not going to go all Freud on you, but just stay with me.
At the end of the first season, viewers learned about Maryann, the seemingly kind-hearted philanthorpist acting like a one-woman Salvation Army, was instead a crazy bitch of still unknown proportions. We also learned that the seemingly "normal" Sam Merlotte was anything but. So what does this mean within the context of "the other"? It seems to me that the second season has turned Freud's theory of "the other" on it's ass. If no one is "normal", even those who look as though they are (i.e. everyone who isn't of the undead persuasion), then what does that say about fears of the perceived "enemy"?
As season two has pointed out, fear and prejudice bring out the worst in all of us. What has Jessica ever done to Mrs. Fortenberry to deserve her scorn? The obvious answer to this is pure hatred and ignorance. Even though this is just a television show, it is also a striking social commentary on the irrational fears many posess. To my knowledge, there are no vampires living in Iowa City, but there are many in the community who deal with the stigma of their births, abilities or orientations everyday.
Modern works such as "Frankenstein" and "Dracula" clearly point out the enemy by showing the monster as something inherently different than your average Joe on the street. This is how they are recognized and defeated. Their physical appearance and attributes are obvious, making them easily identifiable. What "True Blood" has done is turn the seeming "other" into a normal looking person (Maryann, Sookie, Sam, Daphne). Because of this, the characters seem either more frightening or powerful because of their ability to blend into society, unlike the vampires who are a dead (ha) giveaway with their milk-white skin and fangs.
The question I pose is whether it is better to be able to identify the un-normal and know the "enemy", or live among shape-shifters and telepaths, unaware of their abilities, in blissful ignorance. What is it that we are all so scared of? Is it the big, bad vampire that lurks in the night, or the idea that there are those around us, the seemingly "normal", that we should be frightened of? Could it be that we are scared of "the other" or just afraid of finding "the other" within ourselves?



By Dana Judas

Apple: It really is like 1984

An important speech was given yesterday...and then President Obama spoke later that night. Yes, the man who took the bite out of the apple, Steve Jobs spoke yesterday giving millions insights as to how they could drop another $400 dollars for what they pretty much already own.

It's amazing how Apple has gone from the computers that were only in our elementary schools lab, to being in every hipsters messenger bag and their iPods in everyone's pocket and being able to charge a minimum of $1200 for a desktop computer. Furthermore, almost all of the great software they put out is buy Apple and they leave very little room for creativity that doesn't flow with their mentality, they don't give the user much options from in compatibility. If you've seen Ridley Scott's excellent Apple commercial from 1984, you know this is a far cry from what they were originally marketed as:


The Simpsons hilarious take on the Apple of today:


Now if you'll excuse me, I need to install iTunes 9.

-by Tyler Lyon

You Make Me Say (You're an Asshole)

So I guess I'm a little late with the discovery of the song "I Make Her Say (Poke Her Face)" By Kid CuDi... But that's probably for the best, seeing as I am so thoroughly disgusted by the song that I lost concentration from my enticing ICON reading.

This is probably the worst that comes to mind since Lil Wayne's "Lollipop"

OMG, Kid CuDi: You're just way too cool with your ironic plastic Burger King Watch and your carcinogens!

I guess I should count on this blatantly misogynist swine to continue polluting the radio airways? Yeah I'm sure the radio version is a 'clean version', but the intimations are clear.

Just an example of the Cudi's infinitely eloquent flow:

"And fuck them otha bitches cuz she down for the trickin

I'm hoping she a rider

When it's said and done she will spit it up and swallow"

...a 21st century Lothario!

The second thing that struck me about the 'song' was its utter lack of creativity. Rappers have been borrowing from rap since the dawn of time (30 years ago), but I feel like this song has exemplified that it's gotten out of hand. Besides the obvious sample from Lady Gaga, I caught references from T.I., whoever sings that 'blame it on the alcohol' song (another beast), Kid CuDi himself, Asher Roth, and a failure of a VH-1 reality series.

I was really disappointed with the collaborative efforts of both Kanye and Common on this track, two rappers that,although no saints themselves, I consider very talented and more conscious than others--Common aims to prove that very point in the song with the suave lines:

"But they say you be on the conscious tip

get your head right and get up on this conscious dick"

Lyrical master.

The video itself is not of the expected scantily clad women participating in some barnyard apple-bobbing festival while CuDi smokes a cigar or something... but some attempt at artsiness, with double screen shots and balloons. Does this compensate? Answer (No).

Embedding of all "Poke Her Face" videos were 'disabled by request' (wonder why?) But can be viewed here.

Phew, after all that you must be exhausted and angry! Here's a little something to cheer you up:

^be sure to read about her in the DI tomorrow ;)

-By Bri LaPelusa

Smooth Criminal

Heard any good Michael Jackson jokes lately?

Seems like an insensitive question, right? Especially in light of the L.A. County coroner ruling the King of Pop's death a homicide. What an ironic end for an iconic man, one who spent the last two decades of his life known more as a go-to punchline than a musical genius.

As I flipped through a recent Rolling Stone magazine earlier this week (cover story: what really broke up The Beatles, and no, the question isn't answered by a Yoko Ono centerfold), another legendary act diverted my attention. I read the charts section and discovered that nine of the week's top ten pop catalogue albums were Michael Jackson or Jackson 5 works. As I'm sure everyone is now aware, Jackson's sales are through the roof, leading many to conclude he's worth more in death than he was alive.

Undoubtedly that much is true to the people directly tied to his fortune. A Jacksons reality series is much more compelling and has received much more press and intrigue as a result of the passing of the family's prodigal son and breadwinner. News specials remind us that Jackson's unpublished song catalogue will ensure (or insure) a financial foundation for Paris, Prince and apparently Macaulay's progeny Blanket for years to come. Even the tandem releases of the Beatles Rock Band and the Fab Four's remastered discography comes with mentions of Jackson's stake in the band's publishing rights. I guess even post-mortem it's still all about the Benjamins.

After a seemingly endless odyssey involving permits, publicity and parental wishes, we finally buried the King of Pop last week. But the media's trumpets only blared louder, with questions about Neverland's fate (will they turn it into Graceland?) and Conrad Murray's legal future (do they give Elvis doctors the chair?). Janet Jackson and a host of lauded choreographer/dancers are scheduled to perform a tribute to MJ at MTV's Video Music Awards this Sunday, and Janet is also scheduled to be Harper's Bazaar's next cover girl. In an age of Obama-fatigue, Michael Jackson's death is the story that won't die. No one snorts at Orly Taitz and her second fake Obama birth certificate, and in the wake of Oligarhy-gate, Glenn Beck's brand of crazy elicits yawns. But damned if we aren't all drooling at Jackson news like caged hungry dogs within whiffing distance of a meat packing plant.

People actually turned off President Obama's school speech this week. The biggest celebrity in the world was silenced this week by the world's biggest pop star, and all he had to do was stay dead. Michael Jackson couldn't buy this kind of media dominance. Don't forget, he tried: Eight years ago, Sony spent tens of millions to promote Jackson's last original album, Invincible, efforts that didn't translate into earth-shattering sales or coverage. But now, Jackson isn't lifting a finger and yet is surrounded by a bigger media tsunami than ever before. He is the ultimate omniscient narrator.

So earlier, I rudely asked if you'd heard any good Michael Jackson jokes lately. And my answer is: only the one he's playing on all of us now.

--Meryn, who almost can't believe it herself.

Davenport's Figge Art Museum to host gallery talks

Since the flood hit in 2008, the UI’s arts have been drenched in facility problems. The university’s long standing connection with the Figge Art Museum, in Davenport, Iowa, has toasted the University’s watery woes affably by beginning a series of gallery talks throughout the school year.

The talks, which began earlier this summer, will be held every Thursday and will usually consist of an open dialogue about one particular piece of art work. The discussions are aimed at having a dialogue about how one approaches art, and the things that go into understanding a piece of art work.

Beginning at 5 p.m. and ending at 9 the gallery talks include a live band on the first and third Thursday of every month, an open bar, and tapas. The talks themselves last 30 minutes, proving to be great for community members of all ages.

The strong community tie that the university has to the Figge Art Museum, through staff contributors and local alumni, has proven to be the key and endearing motive. The atmosphere champions this idea in the gallery talks and personality of those that attend them.

“The community has responded wonderfully,” Dan McNeil, from the Figge, said. “We’ve had a great summer and we’re looking forward to a great fall.”

Both the university’s collection and the Figge’s collection will be on display in the Figge’s state of the art facility.

A trip to the Figge is not only an artistic endeavor, but also a display of the environment of neighborhood bonds that have only grown stronger in the face of adversity. Art from Eastern Iowa will never be the same.

—by Colin Doherty

These United States turns me into Zack Morris

Do you remember that Saved by the Bell where Zack, Slater, and Screech jam on brooms in their underwear in the living room? Well, indie-rockers These United States need to use that idea for their next music video. Only a few tracks in, I was on top of my coffee table in my living room — in my underwear and sunglasses.

The groups third studio release, Everything Touches Everything, is classic TUS. Carrying a poppy and punchy groove, the album bleeds rock 'n' roll. The title track bounces as lead singer Jesse Elliot sings "this song is smashing everything" as a choir of "oh's" echo behind him, and makes 22 year olds everywhere jump.

One of the strongest parts of the album is the youthful, fresh sound. These United States has not fallen into monotony or indie-rock stereotypes, which is impressive considering this is their third release. The band is still managing to pump out new, and impressive material, which not only shows maturity in musicianship, but as artists.

A local favorite — with Iowa City roots — delivers. Give me a broom, I'll take off my pants, and let's dance.

**** out of *****

-Eric S.

The Second Iowa Metal Guild Exhibition

"The Second Iowa Metal Guild Exhibition: A Riveting Experience" will be at the Figge Museum of Art in Davenport, IA. The exhibition opens September 7th, 2009 with free admission. Following the opening will be a public reception September 10th from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

This exhibition is centered around commemorating the diverse metalwork in the Iowa arts community. Only artists currently residing, have taught, or have received their education in Iowa will be featured. Work was juried by Tom Muir, Professor at Bowling Green State University; Joe Muench, Professor at Iowa State University; and Robert Coogan, Professor and Head of the Metalsmithing Department at the Tenessee Technological University.

An estimated 44 artists with over 80 pieces of artwork will be on display. The process for entering the Iowa Metal Guild included the selected jurors analyzing images of the artwork and determining the level of creativity, aesthetics, and innovation. Two out of the three jurors had to approve the artwork before it could be entered into the exhibition.

"[The artwork to be exhibited] ranges from really fine craft jewelry artwork to objects including furniture", said Kee-Ho Yuen, acting President of the Iowa Metal Guild.

The goal of the Iowa Metal Guild is to promote relationships between artists and the public about the field of metalsmithing. Workshops, lectures, and more will be available to all who are interested. Those willing to be made a member of the Guild will also be given the opportunity to join.


-Hanna Rosman

Ridin' Dirty

It's hard knock life for bicyclists in Iowa City... or more accurately, just a confusing one.

Here are a few (common sense) etiquette rules for both bikers and drivers in Iowa City:

1) DO NOT RIDE YOUR BIKE ON THE SIDEWALK! Not only is this illegal, but it is completely disorienting for pedestrians and fellow bikers alike. You sidewalk bikers also create a bad rap for law abiding street bicyclists, causing automobile drivers to point you out when complaining about our inconsiderate asses taking up precious street space.

3) FOR SENSIBLE STREET CYCLING, STAY IN THE BIKE LANE Iowa City traffic is relatively light, unlike Chicago, where a constant flow of tight-packed traffic deems haphazard interweaving of automobiles acceptable. The streets are big, there's plenty of room for everyone to stay on their sides!

2) DRIVERS: DO NOT IMPATIENTLY TRAIL BEHIND CYCLISTS This is creepy, annoying, and rude, especially when said cyclists are following rules number one and two. Bikers are (hopefully) aware of your presence-- drive around, not behind us.

3) DO NOT LISTEN TO YOUR IPOD WHILE RIDING Just because you're on a bicycle does not make you invincible.

4) LOCK YOUR BIKE And not with a dinky, barbed wire lock: People totally like, steal things...

5) USE YOUR HAND SIGNALS Or... smash?

6) BIKING UP HILLS SUCKS Not really a rule, but definitely a fact.

Phew! Now that the citizens of Iowa City have been properly informed, the streets are finally safe.

This guy is totally not following the rules, giving an improper turn signal.

-Bri LaPelusa

Kurt Cobain must be rolling in his grave...

Recently Activision announced that Cobain's virtual likeness will be making an appearance in Guitar Hero 5 as a playable character. While I have never been a huge fan of the band that started the grunge movement, I have a strong feeling that this is not the kind of post-death treatment the musician would have wanted.

Cobain died because of all the fame and fortune that was getting to his head. He never wanted Nirvana to be a household name and the fact that Courtney Love and Dave Grohl agreed to this seems ridiculous, since they were both close to the singer/guitarist.

I sense that someone related to the Cobain estate must be running into financial troubles...



UPDATE: To prove my point further...

Stop the madness!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNn62A_hvak

Heidi Montag cannot sing. Everyone knows that. So why are we still giving her publicity? Not only is she riding on the coat-tails of other people riding on coat-tails (i.e. Lauren Conrad, The Hills), no one besides Anderson Cooper (that's my boy!) seems to have said anything about it. It pains me to see the downhill slope the entertainment industry has been on for such a long time. Whatever happened to the Triple Threat: Singing, Dancing, Acting? When did having talent become a co-requisite or no-requisite to becoming famous? I want to know who authorized this. Oh wait, I already know the answer to that. It's American culture. As a society one hundred percent consumed with all that is superficial, we have allowed either consciously or sub-consciously, ourselves to become suckers for whatever sells the tabloids. Honestly, do we not have anything more important to think about? How about our country going to hell in hand basket? Evidently that's not as important as what Speidi just tweeted about. It honestly sickens me to think that our society holds people who probably don't even know the correct forms of to and too up to such a high level of importance.
I admit that I'm guilty of sometimes watching TMZ or scanning the gossip section of the MSN homepage, but you would never catch me surfing through PerezHilton.com. I have better things to do and I bet you do, too. Try watching the news and learning about something that's actually important instead of wasting your time on talentless hacks who didn't get the memo that their fifteen minutes of fame are up.
Ok.
I'm done now.
I swear I'm normally a very cheerful person.


Dana Judas