Thundersticks

I've talked about this before.  But I feel it merits revisiting.

There are certain things that have no place at sporting events.  Beachballs, whistles, children under six, the wave, and thundersticks among them.

Thundersticks got their start in the NBA and College b-ball world.  Popping up behind the backboards to try and distract shooters.  I guess I'm cool with that, seeing as how they are used as a tool of mayhem and their use is directly related to the game.  

Image taken from one of the 81 seasonal Gay Pride rallies at Angels Stadium of Anaheim.

But then, something awful happened.  Thundersticks began to appear all over arenas and used as nothing more than a substitute for clapping so that fans may not sting their dainty palms.

I personally blame Angels fans for the appearance of thundersticks in baseball.  I don't remember ever seeing them anywhere else before I first saw them used by the consummately superficial fans of LA.  Part of me is shocked that they would risk destroying their nose jobs by waving long tube like objects in front of their own faces, but then they probably have lots of experience with that.

It is understandable I guess.  Without the thundersticks Angel fans might actually need to exert some real energy to cheer on their team.  Or they could break a nail and those manicures ain't cheap (even if they are oh so relaxing).  I've said it and I say it 'til they go away: be a man, clap your hands.

Thundersticks, you are supremely Overrated.

Random Cool Thing: This Too Shall Pass

OKGo is one of the cooler pop-rock bands out today.

They've got a really strong connection with their fans, their music is fun, their lyrics are clever, unflappable fashion sense, and they make some really awesome music videos.

They recently struck out on their own, leaving their record label.  Their newest video for the single, "This Too Shall Pass" did not disappoint.  With the band playing a live version of the song outdoors with the Notre Dame marching band.   You can even get this version straight from the band for free... here.

But not to be forgotten is this even stranger gem.  Featuring a giant Rube Goldberg machine constructed out of common household items and built by the band and their friends and families.  Check it out...

Atomic Tom, Take Me Out!

You want an inside scoop?  Rhetorical question, I'm giving you one no matter what so deal.

At about this time next year Atomic Tom is going to be the Bee's Knees of modern rock.  People are gonna say, "Atomic Tom is my new favorite band." "Man, Kings of Leon?  So 2009." "I wish Bruce Springsteen sounded as good Atomic Tom."  Well, maybe they won't say all of those things, but two out of three!

But Rated Wrong wants to give you the chance be even snootier when talking about Atomic Tom.  We are going to give you the chance to buy their brand new single "Take Me Out" right here!  And here! And even here!

Don't pass up this great opportunity so when you hear the latest hit from Atomic Tom on the radio (Or whatever device Steve Jobs creates to replace it after he outlaws the radio by refusing to create an app for it) you can turn to your friend and say, "Yeah, these guys used to be cool... until they got all corporate and sold out."

Still not convinced?  Well why not, what are you, stupid?  Okay, in case you are, here is a great live version of "Take Me Out" for free!

Atomic Tom, you are surely underrated!