mitchelclay
Daniel Boone Regional Library
mitchelclay's Completed Shelf
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There Is MoreThere Is More, Music CD
by Hillsong Worship (Musical group)Music CD - 2018Music CD, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 31, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 31, 2018
Comment:
"Come Tomorrow" is yet another solid offering by DMB. It's Dave Matthews at his best. The drumming on this record it so strong. The vibe is emotional, jazz/blues/funk/rock/fusion/jam band... you get the idea.
Ready Player OneReady Player One, DVD
DVD - 2018DVD, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 31, 2018
Comment:
I hate to be one of those people. You know, the "The book was way better," kind of people. But here, I can't help but say it. The movie here portrays the story arch as an action/sci-fi thriller. The book itself has much more mystery and intrigue built in. The movie is fine. But not much more than that... The book however, is fantastic.I hate to be one of those people. You know, the "The book was way better," kind of people. But here, I can't help but say it. The movie here portrays the story arch as an action/sci-fi thriller. The book itself has much more mystery and intrigue…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 25, 2018
Comment:
Although "Bossypants" by Tina Fey is dated by a few years now, it still reads fresh, witty, and relevant. She truly encapsulates her comedy chops here in written form. Which takes a good bit of effort, I imagine, for a lady with her roots planted in improv. She takes the reader through many windows into her life and career, such as her childhood, years at The Groundlings Theatre & School, Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock. Pick this up if you haven't yet. It's a fantastic read.Although "Bossypants" by Tina Fey is dated by a few years now, it still reads fresh, witty, and relevant. She truly encapsulates her comedy chops here in written form. Which takes a good bit of effort, I imagine, for a lady with her roots planted in…
All the Things That I Did and All the Things That I Didn't DoAll the Things That I Did and All the Things That I Didn't Do, Music CD
by Milk Carton Kids (Musical group)Music CD - 2018Music CD, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 23, 2018
Comment:
The Milk Carton Kids' "All the things that I did and all the things that I didn't do" is a fantastic look at modern folk at it's finest. Take a foundation built on mid 2000's Bright Eyes, mix it with nods to Nora Jones, Iron and Wine, and Jose Gonzalez and you've got a great vision of this album. It's fantastic road trip music, or relaxing by candle light.The Milk Carton Kids' "All the things that I did and all the things that I didn't do" is a fantastic look at modern folk at it's finest. Take a foundation built on mid 2000's Bright Eyes, mix it with nods to Nora Jones, Iron and Wine, and Jose…
A Quiet PlaceA Quiet Place, DVD
DVD - 2018DVD, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 23, 2018
Comment:
I often stay as far away from scary as possible. I'm just a baby. My stomach can't handle it. But when I heard that John Krasinski was directing in a film, starring himself and his wife, I knew I had to give it a shot. Boy, am I glad that I did. "A Quiet Place" gets so much right. Not only is it suspenseful, but it's poignant. It feels so purposeful. The foreshadowing is so strong, and yet it gives nothing away. There are probably less than 40 spoken lines in the whole film. That isn't a negative. They fill the void with incredible visual storytelling. The environment weaves a tale without being overtly stated. It's just fantastic.I often stay as far away from scary as possible. I'm just a baby. My stomach can't handle it. But when I heard that John Krasinski was directing in a film, starring himself and his wife, I knew I had to give it a shot. Boy, am I glad that I did. "A…
The Power of HabitThe Power of Habit, BookWhy We Do What We Do in Life and in Business
by Duhigg, CharlesBook - 2012Book, 2012
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 11, 2018
Comment:
"The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg is a fantastic look into our habits, and just how much they effect our lives. The habit loop - cue, routine, reward owns so much of our minds. This book will show examples on what they are, how they can be harnessed, and just how much they own our subconscious mind. I've read this book 3 times now, and I'm still pulling out insights!"The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg is a fantastic look into our habits, and just how much they effect our lives. The habit loop - cue, routine, reward owns so much of our minds. This book will show examples on what they are, how they can be…
Speed RacerSpeed Racer, DVDThe Complete Series, Episodes 1-52
DVD - 2017DVD, 2017
Added Jul 09, 2018
Comment:
Speed Racer is a demon on wheels.This classic cartoon brings so much to the table - action, adventure, intrigue, and humor. It's pure nostalgia. I showed it to my 3 year old daughter yesterday and she absolutely loved it. What a beautiful way to walk back down memory lane.Speed Racer is a demon on wheels.This classic cartoon brings so much to the table - action, adventure, intrigue, and humor. It's pure nostalgia. I showed it to my 3 year old daughter yesterday and she absolutely loved it. What a beautiful way to…
See Without EyesSee Without Eyes, Music CD
by Glitch Mob (Musical group)Music CD - 2018Music CD, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 09, 2018
Comment:
"See Without Eyes" is everything a Glitch Mob record should be. The beats are tight and moving. The melodies are beautiful and continually move the listener forward. The effects work here is really quite incredible. Essentially - this will be my work out album for the foreseeable future. It's a perfect summer cd."See Without Eyes" is everything a Glitch Mob record should be. The beats are tight and moving. The melodies are beautiful and continually move the listener forward. The effects work here is really quite incredible. Essentially - this will be my…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 06, 2018
Comment:
My goodness, "Post Traumatic" by Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda is a beautiful case study in what it looks like to lose, grieve, and live on in the wake of loss. For those who don't know, the lead singer of Linkin Park took his own life in 2017. This project by Shinoda is very much a look into the mind of someone who is dealing with pain and loss. There is a half way mark where the lyrical content very much transitions from looking back to looking forward. I just can't say enough food things about this record. It's raw, unique, and deeply felt. Ever wonder what it's like when someone close to you passes? Listen to this...My goodness, "Post Traumatic" by Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda is a beautiful case study in what it looks like to lose, grieve, and live on in the wake of loss. For those who don't know, the lead singer of Linkin Park took his own life in 2017. This…
Artificial SelectionArtificial Selection, Music CD
by Dance Gavin Dance (Musical group)Music CD - 2018Music CD, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 05, 2018
Comment:
Dance Gavin Dance provides another stellar post-hardcore screamo record in "Artificial Selection." It features everything you are expecting from a DGD album - soaring vocals by Tilian Pearson, paired with the searing quality of Jon Mess's scream. The guitars are strong and precise. It's sincerely perhaps the best cd of 2018Dance Gavin Dance provides another stellar post-hardcore screamo record in "Artificial Selection." It features everything you are expecting from a DGD album - soaring vocals by Tilian Pearson, paired with the searing quality of Jon Mess's scream.…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 05, 2018
Comment:
"All I See Is War" by Sevendust is a great example of modern hard rock and alternative metal. The guitars are tuned low and sound almost guttural. The vocals are strong, pronounced, and prevalent, albeit a little generic. The interesting thing for me personally is that it still feels like Sevendust. Which is shocking considering the first time I heard them was maybe 10 years ago?"All I See Is War" by Sevendust is a great example of modern hard rock and alternative metal. The guitars are tuned low and sound almost guttural. The vocals are strong, pronounced, and prevalent, albeit a little generic. The interesting thing for…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jul 02, 2018
Comment:
Amos Decker is the key protagonist in David Baldacci's "Memory Man." He's a calculated man with a tragic backstory. Decker had a terrible accident during the one play he got to run in the NFL. Through the quite literal scrambling of his brain, Decker gains hyperthymesitic abilities, meaning he retains perfect memory. Using his newfound skills, he joins the local police, and rises to become a detective, the perfect place for a man with perfect memory.
The plot takes shape through the sicking murder or Decker's brother-in-law, wife, and young daughter. The murder is never found. Decker falls on hard times as he fails to put his life back together. Sixteen months later, a man walks into the police station and confesses to the murder. The next day their is a substantial school shooting in the town. Could it be possible the man admitting to the crime and the shooting are connected? Amos Decker must find out for himself.
Two-thirds of this book is great. I never read mysteries or detective stories. This one genuinely hooked me. Amos Decker is an interesting man, and his character flaws are heightened due to his incredible "DVR" in his head.
The problem is the ending. It's just not satisfying in any way. His conclusions seem completely out of left field. I guess it's a way to keep the reader guessing. How could they guess the character if we have no knowledge of them?
Oh, and, I know I'm not supposed to do this, but the cover of this book is terrible. I could have sworn that this book was from the eighties. When he starts to reference YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, DVRs, and even Tinder, I was so utterly confused. Then, I came to find out that it was published 2015. For a modern book, the cover is incredibly dated.
I really wanted to like this book through and through. But the flaws in it really pushed me away. It's a toss-up if I'll read any more of the series...Amos Decker is the key protagonist in David Baldacci's "Memory Man." He's a calculated man with a tragic backstory. Decker had a terrible accident during the one play he got to run in the NFL. Through the quite literal scrambling of his brain,…
My Morning RoutineMy Morning Routine, BookHow Successful People Start Every Day Inspired
by Spall, BenjaminBook - 2018Book, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 29, 2018
Comment:
"My Morning Routine" is a collection of interviews from successful people from many different avenues. There are some common threads throughout the interviews. Many people weave in hydrating early with water first followed by coffee or tea, meditation, exercise, keeping electronics off and email away till later, and many others. It was was really interesting to see what other people do to set themselves up for success.
Personally, I've been waking up at 4:50 AM for the past several months. Sometimes I sleep in, but not often. I try pretty hard to make it up before the children so I can write, read, and pray. But lately I've found that even if I'm up early, it doesn't exactly set me up for success if I jump on social media or YouTube. After reading this book, I've made some tweaks to my system and I'm already seeing them pay off.
If you're looking to modify how you start your day, this is an easy motivating read to help you move forward!"My Morning Routine" is a collection of interviews from successful people from many different avenues. There are some common threads throughout the interviews. Many people weave in hydrating early with water first followed by coffee or tea,…
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood PrinceHarry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Paperback
by Rowling, J. K.Paperback - 2006Paperback, 2006
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 29, 2018
Comment:
Note - I am reading the Harry Potter books for the first time. Any expressions or opinions are brought to the table as someone who has little prior knowledge...
"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" is the sixth book in J. K. Rowling's prolific Harry Potter series. Like many of the previous books, J.K. Rowling has written a novel filled with magic, mystery, and wonder. But as the series moved forward, so did the character development of the mainstays of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. There's been touches of romance in the previous two books, but it floats to the forefront of several plot lines here.
The Half-Blood Prince is also considerably darker than the early H.P. novels. Specifically in dealing with dark magic and the ever present Lord Voldemort. It's shown in a torture scene (although it's pretty light compared most modern media), and the tragic twist at the end.
If you have young readers, it's at this point in the series that you need to come in with well written discussion questions. Talk to your readers about the difference between good and bad, and how we are influenced by the world around us. Discuss romantic relationships, consent, boundaries, and how to find the right fit. Ask how the story made them feel, and how they want to treat others. Do character development deep in the hearts of your children, in the same way Rowling did with her stories.
With all of this said, I greatly enjoyed this book. I think it's the strongest in the series (thus far...) It well deserves my five star review. I can only hope that "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" brings everything together well.Note - I am reading the Harry Potter books for the first time. Any expressions or opinions are brought to the table as someone who has little prior knowledge...
"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" is the sixth book in J. K. Rowling's…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 28, 2018
Comment:
"I ponder of something great
My lungs will fill and then deflate
They fill with fire, exhale desire
I know it's dire my time today
I have these thoughts, so often I ought
To replace that slot with what I once bought
'Cause somebody stole my car radio
And now I just sit in silence..."
Man, I had never listened to this whole album and it's just so good. The lyrics are so strong. The vibes are bold and vibrant. My only small complaint is that each song feels created on its own, with little thought built around what a cohesive album would look like. Besides this, I think it's just fantastic. I wish they'd put out some fresh tunes!"I ponder of something great
My lungs will fill and then deflate
They fill with fire, exhale desire
I know it's dire my time today
I have these thoughts, so often I ought
To replace that slot with what I once bought
'Cause somebody stole my…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 26, 2018
Comment:
"Gone" is another solid album by Christian metal rockers Red. It's a record full of guttural yelling, testosterone, and power chords. The rock is hard and the lyrics are thoughtful. If you're interested in hard rock, but weary of lyrical content or language, this is a fantastic choice for you."Gone" is another solid album by Christian metal rockers Red. It's a record full of guttural yelling, testosterone, and power chords. The rock is hard and the lyrics are thoughtful. If you're interested in hard rock, but weary of lyrical content or…
Tranquility Base Hotel & CasinoTranquility Base Hotel & Casino, Music CD
by Arctic Monkeys (Musical group)Music CD - 2018Music CD, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 25, 2018
Comment:
This truly feels like a reincarnated version of a lot of David Bowie's work. It's hip and spacey. It almost feels like several elevators came together to collaborate on muzak tunes together. That may sound demeaning, but I don't mean it to be. The record it chill, relaxed, jazzy, and very interesting. In light of Arctic Monkey's earlier work, it sounds similar, but subdued. Give it a shot if you're looking for something off the beaten path...This truly feels like a reincarnated version of a lot of David Bowie's work. It's hip and spacey. It almost feels like several elevators came together to collaborate on muzak tunes together. That may sound demeaning, but I don't mean it to be. The…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 25, 2018
Comment:
From Ashes to New's "The Future" is a perfect summer rock album. It feels fresh, yet nostalgic. Remember "Hybrid Theory" by Linkin Park? Believe it or not, that record came out in the year 2000. Now, imagine that record updated with a modern metal feel. You have FATN's "The Future." It takes everything that LP did to innovate in the 00s and brings it into the modern rock/metal arena. It's so easy to listen to. The songs are polished and well written. The rock is hard. The rap is sharp and delivers real impact. It's a fantastic record, and I'm so glad to have found it!From Ashes to New's "The Future" is a perfect summer rock album. It feels fresh, yet nostalgic. Remember "Hybrid Theory" by Linkin Park? Believe it or not, that record came out in the year 2000. Now, imagine that record updated with a modern metal…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 22, 2018
Comment:
30 Seconds to Mars' "America" is a beautifully dark and deeply listenable album. Its tone is often laced with deep bass and meaningful lyrics. It is a very well crafted record, and honestly one of my favorites in the band's whole discography. It's a fantastic summer album. If you're looking for a cd that you can listen to straight through, you've found it here!30 Seconds to Mars' "America" is a beautifully dark and deeply listenable album. Its tone is often laced with deep bass and meaningful lyrics. It is a very well crafted record, and honestly one of my favorites in the band's whole discography. It's a…
Killers of the Flower MoonKillers of the Flower Moon, BookThe Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI
by Grann, DavidBook - 2017Book, 2017
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 19, 2018
Comment:
As the choice for "One Read" by Daniel Boone Regional Library in Columbia, MO, I knew that I had to get my hands on this book. It had actually been on my list since it came out. A good portion of my heritage is Sioux, so when I heard of the "reign of terror" in the Osage territory, my interest was peaked. What I found was a heartbreaking story of murder, theft, and loss. If you have any interest in true crime or Native American history, you owe it to yourself to read this book.As the choice for "One Read" by Daniel Boone Regional Library in Columbia, MO, I knew that I had to get my hands on this book. It had actually been on my list since it came out. A good portion of my heritage is Sioux, so when I heard of the "reign…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 15, 2018
Comment:
Snow Patrol's latest album "Wilderness" is a more adult sound and lyric offering than previous installments. There is a Parental Advisory sticker on the front, which is deserved. There are multiple curse words all through the album. But, if language doesn't bother you, this record to totally worth a spin. It's a grown up Snow Patrol that I can't help but feel akin to. It's blending of acoustic sounds and rock tone once sent a shiver down my back (yes, seriously...)Snow Patrol's latest album "Wilderness" is a more adult sound and lyric offering than previous installments. There is a Parental Advisory sticker on the front, which is deserved. There are multiple curse words all through the album. But, if language…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 14, 2018
Comment:
"Revival" by Light The Torch is a Heavy Metal, almost boarding on Power Metal sound that kicks hard and leaves little room for thought. The guitars are heavily distorted and played in low, powerful chords that register deep within your chest. The vocals are strong and confident. It almost reminds me of Killswitch Engage or Five Finger Death Punch, if they dabbled in a Djent sound. And the Djent isn't found all throughout the record, but when it shows up, it's powerful. It's a solid album that offers intellectual and introspective lyrics."Revival" by Light The Torch is a Heavy Metal, almost boarding on Power Metal sound that kicks hard and leaves little room for thought. The guitars are heavily distorted and played in low, powerful chords that register deep within your chest. The…
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 14, 2018
Comment:
"Sounder" is a record full of heavy guitars and light vocals. The contrast is interesting, but in my opinion, it's pretty underwhelming. The guitar work is solid. The riffs are blazing and the deep guttural noises coming from bass doubling up with the guitars hits hard. What I have such a difficult time with is the vocal performance. I'm positive when some will sit down to listen to this, it will be exactly what they are looking for. But I had a really rough time with how light and airy the lyrics are offered..."Sounder" is a record full of heavy guitars and light vocals. The contrast is interesting, but in my opinion, it's pretty underwhelming. The guitar work is solid. The riffs are blazing and the deep guttural noises coming from bass doubling up with…
Perfect BidPerfect Bid, DVDThe Contestant Who Knew Too Much
DVD - 2018DVD, 2018
mitchelclay's rating:
Added Jun 13, 2018
Comment:
Theodore Slauson has watched "The Price Is Right" his entire life. With a hunger for numbers and patterns, he has meticulously cataloged the prices to almost every item on the game. He's been to over 2 dozen taping of the show. Watch this documentary to see what he does with that knowledge.Theodore Slauson has watched "The Price Is Right" his entire life. With a hunger for numbers and patterns, he has meticulously cataloged the prices to almost every item on the game. He's been to over 2 dozen taping of the show. Watch this…
Comment: