9 - 2009 - rpg punk

Review: Pictures of You

Pictures of You is a web comic written by Gibson Twist.

I haven’t finished it yet, in fact I’ve only finished the first story arc, but man, i feel that it’s so good that i should recommend it here.

This is a story about kids coming of age in college. There is a lot of heavy foreshadowing about some tragic events that will occur in the future, which leaves a gloomy cloud over the lighthearted story – just like real life.

The characters are very lifelike in how they are portrayed and I’m absolutely sure that anyone reading it knows someone who is very similar to at least one of these characters… that’s how well written this is.

The fact that Twist is presenting this as an online graphic novel is intriguing in the pure audacity of the mission. Most web comics are short 3 – 4 panel jokey strips. Most have some sort of overall theme and many have a continuous story that grows and advanced.

But the mission of Pictures of You seems to be a self-contained front-to-back novel with an actual ending; unlike any other web comic I’ve ever seen. It is a noble endeavor, and so far Twist has done nothing but impress with his effort.

Another really cool thing about Pictures of You is that it has a bookmarking feature that you can click and it saves your place. Much more handy than bookmarking on Firefox.

Because of the format of this blog, i can’t show a page of the comic. However, I’ve left links galore, so follow them.

Lackluster looking for a drummer

taken directly from Lackluster’s Myspace site

Live in Central Ohio, play drums, and want to be in a band that’s growing? Let us know!

We have been playing locally, and regionally pretty extensively for the last year. Our drummer had to leave, and we’re all ready (and waiting) to take the next step. We’re using the time to write new material, and record, but also focusing on finding an ideal drummer. We ARE NOT looking for a carbon copy of anyone. In fact, we’re looking for something unique and original. We work hard to not sound like anyone (that we know of). So, we are an original band in the truest sense, and are looking for someone who wants to be involved creatively in such a group. We make consistent efforts to grow, and need someone who wants to grow as well. But, to get right down to it, we need someone who can play to a click, is creative, and is willing to tour.
You can check out music, video, and press @ http://www.reverbnation.com/lackluster.
If interested, feel free let us know. We have a private space on the east side with multiple full kits… as both myself and the bassist drum for other bands. So, all you would need to bring to an audition is yourself and whatever you feel necessary. But, please own a kit.

But to make extra sure I don’t get bothered by people who skipped over the ad to this point… original band, play to a click, touring.

Thanks!
Jon Thought, it should be noted that they were all recorded by myself as demos. The quality is fine, but they’re really more of a jumping off point. Check out “Liars,” and “Why Try Harder,” for the best representation of what we are currently doing. The tracks are also available right here on our MySpace page in shitty MySpace quality.

Artists Community

A week or so ago, my friend Michelle and I were sitting on her front stoop and talking about all of our musical and artistic friends.

We came to the the conclusion that even though almost everyone we know is artistically inclined, most of them do not have the motivation to do anything with that ability.

So we decided to attempt to change that.

Michelle is an artist, musician, and songwriter.

I am a rather mediocre wordsmith.

but together we are attempting to create a community where artists of all types can come together and compete with one another.

yes, i said compete.

see, having talent without focus is wasted talent. by having a group of people who challenge each other to come up with new ideas, improve old ideas, honestly critique others’ work, and push each other to reach their full potential, we can help each other grow and expand!

currently, Michelle and I are looking at a monthly gathering.

Monthly gatherings are good to start out with, because it gives everyone time to prepare themselves.

you see, each month, anyone who attends must present something they have worked on. It could be a finished work, or a work in progress. It could be a song, a poem, a story, a painting, a sculpture, a quilt, a tapestry, a video, a game… anything.

Anything you are passionate about, anything that you create, is fair game!

so, if you are interested in joining this venture, feel free to contact me for more information. currently, the musicians are the majority, but i hope to change that and make a more even spread of artistic jelly. mmmmm jelly…

we are also working on a name for the group. any ideas for that are welcome too.