Uncategorized - The Constant Bleeder

Robert Pollard
“Current Desperation (Angels Speak of Nothing)” b/w “Met Her at a Seance”
2007, Happy Jack Rock Records

Why does Robert Pollard write fucked up songs like “Spider Eyes” when he can write gorgeous things such as “Current Desperation (Angels Speak of Nothing)”?

I don’t ever ask that question, but I know that some do. I’ve read the reviews. I’ve seen the internet posts. There’s an audience who loves Pollard’s pop melodies, but they have a hard time reckoning with how he’s a complete nut at the same time.

The doorways into this vast body of work are many, as are the paths that the listener can take through it. Smack me if I ever start saying that I know the right way. I don’t. No one ever will.

I guess I can’t blame the fan who considers Pollard a pop genius who has a weakness for indulgence. He’s got a ridiculous stack of (should-be) hits. Listen to the seductive beauty of “Current Desperation (Angels Speak of Nothing)” and I can see how the person drawn to that flame might not also have ears for Pollard’s interest in dirges, his prog influences, and Circus Devils.

Me, I’m the opposite. In my vision, Robert Pollard is a freaky weirdo who happens to be a pop genius.

Continue reading “Robert Pollard-Mania! #119: CURRENT DESPERATION (ANGELS SPEAK OF NOTHING)”

Nothing cool is for everyone. Case in point: The Alamo Drafthouse Secret Screening.

I’m at a stage in my life where I ENJOY it when people are confused about why I schlep over to a Richardson movie theater almost every month for a show in which the movie is always a secret until our host, the almost supernaturally likable James Wallace, reveals it to the crowd.

It somehow makes me feel alive to be a nutcase. As I spiral toward age 50, I can think of no better way to get old.

So I jumped at the chance to explain my plans for this past Saturday to anyone who asked.

I was going to the movies.

“What are you gonna see?”

I don’t know. It’s FOUR movies at the Alamo Drafthouse, all based around a theme, but I have no idea what the movies are or what the theme is. It could be anything. Should be fun!

That’s where the other person makes a face like I just said that I plan to go look for beehives on the moon and I’m fine with that.

I’ve had to miss the last few Alamo ass-numbing marathons, but this one worked out. I entered the Richardson Alamo’s Theater 6 (their big room) on a Saturday morning, ready to poison my brain on whatever it offered.

Continue reading “THE SECRET SCREENING MYSTERY MOVIE MARATHON at the Alamo Drafthouse in Richardson, Texas 2/24/24”