Here We Go Again

bmarkey posted this essay on the latest brouhaha over "rockism" over at Big Green House, but I wanted to put it up here as well. -D

By now you probably know about the recent brouhaha over “rockism." If not, check here to see what started it. Here’s a pretty well thought out argument for “popism." (Sorry, but I can’t make myself use “poptimism” without fear of slipping into a diabetic coma). As far as I can see, both sides get a few things right. Both sides have some complete and utter fools arguing their cases, too. Nature loves symmetry.

Mixing Pop and Politics

I have never had much use for Kelefa Sanneh as a writer. Part of that stems from our differing tastes in music: he loves Top 40 pop, and I… don’t, really. That’s just an honest difference of opinion, though, and I can still respect someone who doesn’t see things my way. Occasionally I have to grit my teeth to do so, but I can usually pull it off.

Whatcha gonna do with all that ass ?

Black Eyed Peas' “My Humps” has somehow crossed my radar. It seems there's something of an on-line kerfuffle about the song. First I was pointed toward this piece from Coke Machine Glow; someone else later brought up this one from Slate.

Cole Coonce, "Shelby Foote"

An introduction: This category was basically N's idea. Pop quiz! How often do we read a review where the writer seems delusional, a shill, or a bitter old battle ax? Answer? Too damned often. This is because other people's opinions are shit, and ours are awesome. Welcome to Reviewing the Reviewers.