Second, I can confirm that I will be back in Natchez on the 15th of this month thanks to me accomplishing the tasks set before me here in Jackson. It has been a learning experience; some good, some neutral, and more often than not refreshing. As always, feel free to share this post and/or leave a comment.

In this audio update, I discuss recent happenings on the website, encourage you to follow me on Twitter, announce a few projects in the works, and thank everyone for their birthday wishes. We also include a promo for J.C. Hutchins’ new novel Personal Effects: Dark Art which is slated to be released in June. More details and link love are below.

—-
I wanted to tell you about a pretty cool fiction-meets-reality promotion hosted by my buddy, author J.C. Hutchins. His debut novel, Personal Effects: Dark
Art is coming out in June, and he’s launched a creative grassroots campaign to spread the word.

Check out the promotion at
http://JCHutchins.net/thebrink . You can become a “patient” in the mental institution seen in the book! Submit some artwork and a patient profile, and your work will be displayed on the hospital’s official website,
http://BrinkvalePsychiatric.com . You’ll even receive printable “admittance papers” from the hospital!  It’s fun and free. Learn more at http://JCHutchins.net/thebrink . (And don’t forget to buy the book in June. Let’s help out all podcast authors get some exposure.)
—-

Astral Audio Productions is now optimized for your phone or other mobile devices. Below is a full list of what is supported. If your device isn’t on the list, let me know and I’ll add it. And if you want to test the site, go for it; your feedback is what makes your experience on our site better. Be sure to tell your friends, use the “ShareTheExperience” feature, or by word of mouth about Astral Audio Productions. The second year is shaping up to be better than the first. And as always, thanks for subscribing.

Mobile Browsers
2.0 MMP
240×320
400X240
AvantGo
BlackBerry
Blazer
Cellphone
Danger
DoCoMo
Elaine/3.0
EudoraWeb
Googlebot-Mobile
hiptop
IEMobile
KYOCERA/WX310K
LG/U990
MIDP-2.
MMEF20
MOT-V
NetFront
Newt
Nintendo Wii
Nitro
Nokia
Opera Mini
Palm
PlayStation Portable
portalmmm
Proxinet
ProxiNet
SHARP-TQ-GX10
SHG-i900
Small
SonyEricsson
Symbian OS
SymbianOS
TS21i-10
UP.Browser
UP.Link
Windows CE
WinWAP
YahooSeeker/M1A1-R2D2

Touch Browsers
iPhone
iPod
Android
BlackBerry9530
LG-TU915 Obigo
LGE VX

Special Note: If anyone would be interested in colaborating with us to create an iPhone app, leave a comment or send an email.

I was fortunate enough to get an advance copy of Personal Effects: Dark Art which will hit store shelves in a couple of weeks. While I love my Kindle, it is books like this that insure that printed books are never going to go away. You’ll have to pick up a copy to see what I mean, but the whole style and printing is as much a part of the story as the written words are. Trust me and order a copy today.Personal Effects: Dark Art, May 2009

You should read the whole article.

[poll id="4"]

Feel free to share this post on Facebook, through email, retweet it on Twitter, stumble it, etc. This poll will close next Sunday, and the next one will begin the following day. Good luck to all those involved, and don’t hesitate to ask your listeners/fans/followers to vote for you.

If you are asking yourself, “Why do we have to vote again?” My response is this: Tabz edged out Scott Sigler by four votes; not only that, but neither one got a true majority. In US elections, a winner is declared if someone obtains over 50% of the votes cast. Needless to say, that is why I knew that another poll was required. So enough of my build up, and as Mills Lane would say, “Let’s get it on!”

[poll id="5"]

So go for it and buy yourself several copies of Personel Effects: Dark Art.

An odd title for an episode eh? Trust me, I do have a reason for it. I have tried with each audio presentation to bring to you something that engaged me emotionally in some way. Even the themed ones have had something in them that struck a chord. So when I read a blog post regarding a contest that wanted people to write about such experiences, I became excited. The post discussed the wave of celebrities that have been populating Twitter as of late; most not caring to interact with people but to rack up a number of followers. While I could easily slip into a diatribe, I will instead take a different approach and highlight someone on Twitter who has used the given medium for what it is; a method of interaction between interested parties who follow each other. The band Collective Soul has broken the mold and remembers through each reply given or picture posted that it is thanks to their loyal fans that they are popular. So I did as that blog post instructed and followed @collective_soul, sent a direct message, and thus, the seeds for the podcast episode were planted.

The band reminds me of myself, and for you who may be knew, the reason why isn’t obvious. I can best explain it this way. When I was learning the ropes through various academic institutions, I had this desire to be different; not in the, “Hey, pick me!” attention-seeking way, but in the, “I’m Allen, and this is what I do.” The friends I did obtain or attract were drawn to my humble actions and not an arrogant attitude. Collective Soul can best be described as having the same general principle. Even with all the albums they have sold, the many tours they’ve been on, the awards won, you know when you are going to see this band live or here their latest single, you are going to get Collective Soul; rock that is going to energize you, evoke some kind of emotion from deep down, and get an ear-worm stuck in your head for days. It isn’t just the fact that “What you see is what you get,” but how approachable and for lack of a better word, normal they are; like the casual group of friends still trying to make their first album and playing more so because they love to play rather than earn money.

Furthermore, we both have an ear for the eclectic. Long time listeners of my podcast know that not every episode that has music is the same as far as genre selection is concerned. The band has given us something different with each album, and to narrow your vision for just a moment, every single they’ve released. Yet, there is something that reminds you of who they are, what they sound like, and the quality you are getting when you give them a listen. Good illustrations of this can be found in the songs “Gel”, “December”, “Why Pt. 2″, “Heavy”, and their first single (which appears in the episode) “Shine.” No matter how many times you hear each song, you take away something new. (Now that is ear candy you can enjoy!) As an individual who relies on hearing things, I appreciate the rich textures, where the instruments are placed, not only how the vocals come across, but what is said. Even though I haven’t attended a Collective Soul concert, I’ve heard that their live show is an experience you won’t soon forget; the band is currently on their 2009 tour so if you get the chance, check them out.

I’m going to do something a little different here and break down each song I played in this episode. I won’t go into overall meanings of the songs themselves but I’ll let you in on how I was impacted; thereby giving you a little insight as to why each song was chosen. Take from it what you will and let me know in the comments what you think; there is the voice mail option as well. Your feedback is what helps fuel the fire as always.

“All That I Know”

A song that has a somewhat lazy vibe. Picture a summer afternoon, you sitting on a wrap-around porch, and enjoying the scenery. Or maybe you are on a picnic with the one you care for; the two of you on a bright blue blanket under a shady tree. This is the song that would work nicely for both of those scenarios. It is repetitive but in a good way; leaving an impression long after the track is finished. Echos of a good tall glass of ice-cold lemonade; the after effects making you feel relaxed and refreshed at the same time.

“Shine”

A familiar desire of the eager student wanting to be enlightened; this song mirrors a cry for help. However, it is a hopeful urge; not a sorrowful declaration. I think we all want to shine in our own way. No wonder this song hit a nerve in the collective consciousness in the early 90s. It still speaks volumes today; hallmarks of good song writing in my opinion.

“Staring Down”

A song that hits home; it has a sort of Gospel tempo. Think of a guy praying in front of an altar or someone standing in front of the door to his house with flowers in hand; both images reflect humble attitudes. The song communicates a kind of sweet release from past held behaviors which hindered the individual. When we realize our mistakes and how we can break free from the vines that entangle us, we strive to go beyond our natural limits.

Final Thoughts

I thoroughly enjoyed this whole process; from finding out about the contest, to having interactions with the band, to picking the songs, and putting it altogether in a nice-sized audio package for you to experience. It is days like this when I can safely say I am doing what I love. So enjoy the tunes and leave me any feedback. Don’t be a stranger and get yourself subscribed to find out the latest happenings or hear what music I unleash upon your ears. There is more excitement ahead, and I want you to be a part of it. Call 206-338-2138 and leave a message if you’d like to be in the next episode.

Crescent Book Launch Promo (right click, download, and experience.)

About Crescent

“Crescent is the last stop at the intergalactic crossroads of gritty sci-fi and pucker-inducing horror.” –Scott Sigler, New York Times bestselling author of Contagious

• download beavis and butt head do america dvd

eagle vs shark online download

“Crescent is the ultimate sci-fi / horror mashup. It’s a wicked blend of the claustrophobia seen in Ridley Scott’s Alien, and the viral demonology of Carpenter’s Prince Of Darkness with the hard-drinkin’ bad attitude of Battlestar Galactica added for good measure. The future has never been so frightening. Phil Rossi brings it.” –J.C. Hutchins, author of Personal Effects: Dark Art and 7th Son: Descent

“Phil Rossi has crafted a space station tale with sex, horror, and vibrant attention to tech and human detail. Evocatively served, highly recommended.” —Paul Levinson, author of The Plot to Save Socrates

Summary:

Darkness has inspired fear since mankind first watched the sun go down. Bad things hide in the dark feral beasts with mouths full of razors waiting for

watch player 5150 online

• download little manhattan dvd

a taste of flesh. But now, the darkness is stirring with a life of its own. Crescent Station is the last bastion of civilization, floating in the cold, outer systems where colonized space gives way to the sparser settlements of the Frontier. Like the boom towns of distant Earth’s Old American West, Crescent Station is a gateway to power, wealth, and opportunity for anyone who isn’t afraid to get his or her hands dirty. But deep within the station’s bowels, in Crescent’s darkest and most secret places, an ancient evil is awakening and hungry, and it threatens the very fabric of space and time. Will the residents of Crescent Station find a way to stop it before the terror drives them insane? Or is it already too late?

Tomorrow is the Amazon rush, and Astral Audio Productions wants you to be a part of history. July 9, 2009 is when you can buy the book. Watch the trailer below, and come back tomorrow when I will give you the link to hit the charts!

download cj7 dvd download china strike force

Watch Phil Rossi’s coverage here at the link below!

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/crescent-amazon-com-chart-rushdownload two can play that game

the santa clause 3 the escape clause online download

download lady chatterley s lover dvd

1. Answer the question in the comments by leaving the word you thought of and why.
2. Retweet this post and ask your followers this prompt.
3. Respond to me on Twitter.
4. Call 206-338-2138 and leave your answer.
5. Record your response and send it to me as an mp3 file. (Instructions for mp3 files are on the contact page of our site.)

If you can do more than one, great! The more feedback we receive, the better our choices will be when we decide on the number to use. And as a side note, the K7 number will still be kept as a backup.

As a side note, I am reminded of a scene from Star Trek: TNG that fits this scenario.

Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.

–Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

The first step is often the hardest. Whether it is a new writing project, a class assignment, an oral presentation, or musical composition, the fear of rejection stands in the way of progress. So as you go throughout this week, take a chance and simply dive in. If you get 100 rejection letters, you are doing something right because somewhere in that dark cloud is a silver lining. Eleminate the word “can’t” from your vocabulary and thought process. The more you feel, believe, and think you “can” do something, you will find yourself able to “Boldly go where no one has gone before.”

Questions to start the week: What will you start today? How can you rid yourself of the word ‘can’t” in your life? How can you motivate others to boldly go beyond what is expected of them? Answer in the comments, and feel free to share this post with your friends, colleagues, and family. And if this inspired you in any way, let me know.

It is time for all of you to break out your handy dandy notebooks, sit in your thinking chairs, put on your ultra-rad thinking caps, and think. No, this isn’t a call for you to find out what clues Blue has left for you; however, this is a chance to ponder questions for the infamous Tabz! Questions can be anything geek related, about podcasts, the ins and outs of audio productions; you name it. Questions are due 11:11 eastern Friday evening. Tabz will be emailed the questions and she will then record her reactions as well as her responses; then you will get a spiced up version of that. Sound good? Let the questions fly!

A couple things:
Questions should be emailed to allen@astralaudio.net.
Emails should have “Questions For Tabz” as the subject line.

Update Monday Sept. 28: The launch date is either going to be Oct 1st or Oct 2nd. We are still taking emails for who will want to play the promo.

Astral Audio Productions is looking to fill October with plenty of gruesome goodies for its listeners and readers. We are looking for horror authors who want to share a short story or two, musicians that have horror-themed music they want played in a podcast,film-makers that have any horror short films they want viewed, (any audio drama organizations that have horror-themed material they wish us to play), or anyone who wishes to review any of the films coming out in October.

Posts must be a minimum of 300 words. Any music offered must be owned by the band/artist who submits it for podcast inclusion. Short films must be able to be embedded on the Astral Audio Productions website. (Audio dramas can be one or several episodes in length but must include a call back to the audio drama group’s website.) Film reviews must be for any of the horror-themed variety. All participants will have appropriate links given at the end of each contribution.

Previously published OK?: No
Posts needed by (date): 10/31/2009
Emails sent to: allen at astralaudio.net with “October 2009″ as the subject line

This post has to be read several times over. Truly amazing stuff for writers, musicians, painters, actors, podcasters etc. It goes beyond the mere labels and cuts deep into the living, breathing flesh of humanity. Replace every instance of “writer”with “person” or “individual” and see what you come up with. Go ahead. Take a leap into inspiration!

Ariel Palooza Day 1 (Right click, download, and experience.)

From the creator of the Astral Audio Experience, Astral Audio Extra, Astral Audio Double Feature, and last year’s Halloween Special comes the event of the fall season. Hailed as an onslaught of entertainment for your ears; Astral Audio Productions teams up with Ariel Publicity to unleash upon the masses . . . Ariel Palooza!

Jessie Murphy – In the Woods

This song sounds like something from Loreena McKennitt and draws you in with the rhythm and a sense of sheer curiosity. It has a good folk-like sound, though you can feel the girls’ wanting to rock out a little. Their harmonies are beautiful and make the song haunt you for days (in the best of ways). This song makes you want to dance or make out with someone in a forest somewhere. Perhaps with a childhood sweetheart.

Kalliopi – Fire and Sea

Beautiful voice draws you in, as does the almost traditional Greek melody and voice nuances. A slow and lazy beat with the occasional guitar riff allows you to focus on her soft whispers, like tendrils creeping in and mesmerizing you. There’s a great climax when turmoil is made clear by the screaming guitar and the clashing layers of voices. You are left with the impression of slow, difficult, and life-changing journeys.

KaiserCartel – Oh No

This song has an old folk-rock, roadhouse blues kind of sound and is slightly reminiscent of Regina Spektor. The male chorus harmonies are a great touch and the song closes with a cool chord shift that makes you think twice.

Clara Bellino – Potential Criminal

This is clearly a story told through a light, upbeat pop song. The building rhythm pulls you right in and the hilarious chorus raises questions about how legal US immigrants feel in their newly-adopted country (as well as about how we “typical” Americans live and think). Includes clever uses of the national anthem. The guitar bridge leaves room for the imagination to create an elaborate immigration/assimilation montage. The use of the last line is very poignant.

Jennings – Umbrella

Upon first hearing this song you ask, “what the fuck is this?” but then you feel the pit-pattering of rain in the beat and the soft breeze of the background vocal. When the lyrics start, you get it. The lead singer’s soft voice makes this a very heartfelt and inviting version of the song. It’s simple with a refreshing a cappella sound.

Monika Jalili – Dance of the Stars

The song’s traditional drum and guitar sound pulls you immediately in, then the strings solidify your interest in this gypsy-folk-sounding piece. It makes you want to dance under the moon (hence the title of the song, I suppose). I have no idea what she’s saying since the song is Iranian, but her voice is clear, beautiful, and operatic (obviously trained) and carries with it a great deal of history. The melody is simultaneously haunting and inviting, the rhythm is solid, and the song fails to be repetitive. Awesome.

Dala – Fortress

This piece has a slow, lazy beginning and the typical soft-yet-powerful female-folk-singer voice. Beautiful harmonies and a quick guitar lament as they tell the tale of two people from different worlds who are afraid to love one another. More generally, this band has a great sound (as you’ll hear later).

Promos
paul elard cooley
Kate Of Mind
Frequency Of Fear
Down From 10
Fetidus

What did you think of this episode? Why not email us, call the Astral Audio hotline at 206-338-2138, or leave us a review on iTunes!

This has been an Astral Audio production in association with Ariel Publicity. Special thanks to Michelle Quirk for writing the reviews in this episode.

Ariel Palooza Day 2 (Right click, download, and experience.)

From the creator of the Astral Audio Experience, Astral Audio Extra, Astral Audio Double Feature, and last year’s Halloween Special comes the event of
the fall season. Hailed as an onslaught of entertainment for your ears; Astral Audio Productions teams up with Ariel Publicity to unleash upon the masses
. . . Ariel Palooza!

UnderWhelmed – Freak

Heavy sound pulls you right in with an unanswerable question. The lead singer’s voice is reminiscent of Nickelback’s, but the band’s overall sound is much heavier. The lyrics are as simple as the message that comes across. I love the bridge in this song where the lyrics are perhaps most powerful as they prepare to break back into the chorus.

Cyanide – Lunacy

This song’s introduction is very techno-like and sounds almost like something you would hear at a club or roller-rink. The lyrics are not comprised of your typical rap topics; instead, Cyanide talks about zombies, serial killers, and insanity! His rhymes are clever and fun but warning, there is some profanity, drug references, and graphic descriptions. I could see this song used for a gory showdown in a horror/slasher movie.

Ten Year Vamp – Pleasures (That I Call Mine)

The song jumps right into its groove and you quickly notice that they sound a little like The Donnas (not that that’s a bad thing!). The lead vocalist has a strong voice and lots of aggressive energy; the heavy beat pushes the song along as she rocks out to her desires. Several quick shifts give the song a few unexpected twists.

David Packouz – Carpe Diem!

An awesome, catchy percussion introduction makes way for some intense guitar work. The vocals begin as a raspy whisper that coincides with the story, but they then become the powerful male vocalist of the rock world. His voice maintains its clarity so you can understand the lyrics easily. Great message (can you guess what it is?) and sound (borderline prog rock).

Million Dollar Mouth – Space Out

The band is reminiscent of Incubus and Bush and yet it definitely has its own sound, too. There is some spaciness to the song in terms of its sound—it is simultaneously distant and in your face—and the rhythm is great. I love the sound of the bridge and chorus; the song is like a modern space odyssey.

JJ Sinatra – Spittin’ Forever

This piece has a trippy introduction with a light keyboard sound that almost prepares you for a soft pop song, but then the male vocal breaks in, surprising you with a slow rap. The lyrics tell about the creative process and the need to share the results. The song is catchy and powerful, though a warning because of some mild language. I particularly love the outro that almost sounds like a cry let out into the world.

Promise Lab – Burned Again

A heavy beginning for a song that makes a lot of use of the guitar’s whammy bar and the band’s awesome lead vocalist. There is little variation in the song until the bridge, but the band has an awesome sound nonetheless that is especially great for rocking out in the car (I speak from experience).

Promos
Nobilis
Tumbler
Trapping A Duchess

What did you think of this episode? Why not email us, call the Astral Audio hotline at 206-338-2138, or leave
us a review on iTunes!

This has been an Astral Audio production in association with Ariel Publicity. Special thanks to Michelle Quirk for writing the reviews in this episode.

Ariel Palooza Day 3 (Right click, download, and experience.)

From the creator of the Astral Audio Experience, Astral Audio Extra, Astral Audio Double Feature, and last year’s Halloween Special comes the event of
the fall season. Hailed as an onslaught of entertainment for your ears; Astral Audio Productions teams up with Ariel Publicity to unleash upon the masses
. . . Ariel Palooza!

HuDost – Trespasser

An energetic, catchy introduction is followed by a Sarah-McLachlan-like-voice. The song is rhythmic and Siren-like with its lead vocalist and background harmonies and, like the monsters’ island, it is hauntingly refreshing. Imagine being lost at sea—tossed about unmercifully—but loving every second of the adventure.

Nick Daugherty – Movin’ Higher

This song has a folk/country sound with a strong and confident lead male vocalist. The sound reminds me a little of a folky Lifehouse; it is very whimsical, especially with the fun unexpected percussion features. It would make for a great “hanging around outside” song.

Janyse – Dreamers

This song is slow with a Euro-pop sound and almost reminds me of a more pop-like Celine Dion piece. It also sounds like something from an 80’s or 90’s kids’ movie (but not in a bad way!), which makes sense given that this artist also does music for children and animation voice-overs. Basically, this song is just uplifting and fun.

Mammút – Svefnskt

A slow beginning picks up with the wailing of a few angry guitars that are reminiscent of old-school Kittie. The female singer has a clear voice (though she doesn’t sing in English) and does well as she switches between singing, whispering, and yelling. There are also lots of unexpected shifts in the piece that keep you on your toes. Great song (and band, more generally).

Glideascope – Istanbul

The song’s slow beat and piano create a starry-night ambiance, but then the urban beat, scratches, and trash-can-lid percussion bring it into the city lights. The background flute and chanting that enter later help the song transcend genre and bring the unbridled wilderness associated with folk music into the city, too. The city is a wilderness of all kinds, I suppose?

Planetary Nights – Planetary Nights

This is a trippy blues song that creates a different nighttime wilderness than Glideascope. The background effects and slow guitar create an ambiance that is made concrete with the lead vocal. Think hippies in a sleepy daze, lying around a bonfire together in a field in the middle of nowhere looking up at the sky and discussing its infinite tie-dye and paisley possibilities. Then you have an idea of what this song is like.

Bone Gunn – Wild River (Burning Bridges Mix)

This song has a galloping beat and many unexpected twists and turns, such as a cowbell keeping a beat with electronic effects trying to overpower it. Whispered vocals give the song’s poetry a further sense of urgency before it becomes an almost rallying chant for those who are often rendered invisible. I particularly love the folk dance interrupted by the beat of hammering metal.

Olafur Arnalds – 3055

I fell in love with this song the first time I heard it and have been listening to it constantly. Its haunting beginning on the piano reminds you of an autumn rain. The violin is sorrowful as it is influenced by the steadiness of the piano. However, as melancholy as it is, background chords, especially towards the middle of the song, restore hope, as if the sun is peaking through and the rainbow is forming. The transience of that display of light is upsetting, as sensed by the violin and the still-pattering piano-rain, but the percussion and volume break you of the sad spell and so you relish the moment and the happiness it brings all the more. I especially love the plucked strings at the end with the fervent piano.

Promos
Well Told Tales
I Should Be Writing
Geek Pantheon
Heat Flash
Untrue Tales From Beyond Fiction

What did you think of this episode? Why not email us, call the Astral Audio hotline at 206-338-2138, or leave us a review on iTunes!

Ariel Palooza Day 4 (Right click, download, and experience.)

From the creator of the Astral Audio Experience, Astral Audio Extra, Astral Audio Double Feature, and last year’s Halloween Special comes the event of
the fall season. Hailed as an onslaught of entertainment for your ears; Astral Audio Productions teams up with Ariel Publicity to unleash upon the masses
. . . Ariel Palooza!

Dala – Anywhere Under the Moon

As before, Dala’s light gypsy-rock haunts you with its distant guitar and female harmonies. The steady beat and soft folk voice carry it along with some down-to-earth lyrics. The ending has an interesting but awesome surprise.

Radiant – I Don’t Need a Reason

The beginning sounds a little like an 80’s or 90’s pop song with heavy beat and a keyboard, piano, and background vocal combination. Finally it breaks into a heavy techno with a male vocalist who is easily understandable amongst the barrage of sounds and has a solid yet soothing voice. The female background harmonies are a nice touch. This song definitely has a steampunk or even soft-core goth kind of sound, since it’s an awesome hybrid of rock and techno/electronica.

Ten Year Vamp – Never Know

This song sounds like your typical pop-punk starting off, but then the lead singer pulls you in as a Siren would with her great rock voice with some pop elements (I love it, personally). Definitely an in-your-face kick-ass female-lead rock band without the fakeness or the pink fluff (like some female “punk” singers we’ve heard before). I’ve been addicted to the whole album.

Heather Edwards – I’ve Decided

An “exotic” (I dislike that word but can’t think of a replacement) introduction leads into an almost tribal beat. The lead singer’s voice is soft but strong—it reminds me a little of the Cranberries’s lead singer. Very positive message attached to a very catchy tune.

Megaphone – My Favorite New Disaster

This is a band that, though I thought it sounded trendy at first, caught my attention after giving it a chance. Great breaks and energy combine with some interesting (and so true!) lyrics for a fun tune. This is another great one for when you feel like rocking out in the car. Singing along is optional.

Stars Go Dim – Love Go Mad

This song sounds like a slow and depressing pop song at first with its beat, piano, and lamenting male vocalist; however, a guitar finally enters the scene to give it a little more of a rock sound alongside the piano until it then turns to percussion and a bass, as well. Reminiscent of Lifehouse but with a little more rock to it.

Spy For Hire – As Good as New

A lazy guitar and some percussion open this one, creating an almost country feel, but then it moves to more of a rock sound with a decent amount of energy. Great rhythm shifts make the song interesting and the male harmonies are great and almost a cappella-like. For whatever reason, I think this would be a good beach song. Maybe it’s the changes in energy and the reminiscent-of-waves-and-surfers whammy bar action.

F&M – Another Closing Number

This piece sounds like a roadhouse bar song and I love it. The male vocalist breaks the mold and the song is deep, as you would expect a song at closing time to be. The lyrics are what carry the song through in the beginning since there isn’t much variation in the sound until the vocalist becomes a little more passionate and the piano enters near the closing. Haunting vocals close the tune as the rhythm fades out.

Promos
Qattusverse
Guardians
Goblin Market
Erotica A La Cart
paul elard cooley
Making The Cut
The Moth Pod
Far Horizons
Fetidus
The Leviathan Chronicles
Zombie Cheerleaders

What did you think of this episode? Why not email us, call the Astral Audio hotline at 206-338-2138, or leave
us a review on iTunes!

If you are a podcaster and enjoyed the experience of Ariel Palooza, I encourage you to download the promo and play it in your next podcast. I had 25 or so promos throughout the four days and enjoyed promoting everyone’s work. While I couldn’t have all the individuals named, I did strive to have quite a few singled out. It is close to 2 minutes for a promo, and it would have been shorter if I hadn’t gone for the radio station/music festival vibe; not that I regret the end result mind you. The real stand out performance is done by my voice over guy, Jace Edwards. Besides being my inspiration for wanting to get into the broadcasting field, he is top-notch talent, one of the politest guys you will ever meet, and enjoys what he does on a daily basis. He took my short pass and managed to turn it in for an awesome 50yd touchdown
play.

If you use the promo, I want you to do a few things. First, be sure to link to www.AstralAudio.net. Second, email me so I know you used the promo and can thank you. And finally, email Jace telling him who you are, if you liked the promo, or if you want him to do any voice over work for you.

Keep the experience alive,
Allen

Welcome to day 1 of our Experiencing no-R-mal series. This album is in four parts spread over the same amount of days. What drew me to this collection is the quality of the artists and the quantity; the fact it falls under the creative commons license is a definite bonus. What is presented is the complete album in full. No clever intro, nothing foreshadowing what waits on the horizon. This is an experiment to see what you think. Tell us what you like about the album, what you don’t like, if you want more albums presented in this manner. And now, experience no-R-mal CD 1.

Track List

01. Herzog – From tomorrow you will have a new city
02. Joe Frawley – Masque
03. Altus – Trying to elude that dark place
04. Ian D Hawgood & Miko – Mat
05. Effacer – A single letter
06. Cousin Silas – Dreaming of Dunwich
07. :retreat: – Hymn
08. Nagual Art – Niobe and the sea
09. Bob Dickinson – Leb ‘wohl
10. Gabran – Nos Jeux etaient simples
11. The ghost between the strings – Back to the abyss
12. Michael Trommer – Diverging drone
13. Terje Paulsen – Veering

Special thanks to the Justnotnormal Netlabel for allowing Astral Audio Productions to feature this album. To find out more, visit the official website for artist links, album artwork, and where to download the release. While there, leave them a comment so they know what you think. Thanks for staying subscribed to Astral Audio Productions!

Second day of our trek through the cavalcade of artists showcased in this Justnotnormal release. The dark, creepy vibe continues; rather appropriate since Halloween is near. What awaits you is now revealed as you experience no-R-mal CD 2.

Track List

1. Bogdan Dullsky – KZ Mauthausen Der Schornstein
2. Tim Walters – Termite College
3. Altocumulus – Spring song
4. Mind6Spiral – Angels eat at the Chrysler building
5. Pangea – A massive hit
6. D’incise – Bestioles
>>> [ WARNING ::: DATABASE ERROR ::: CONTENT OVERRIDE ::: SOURCE: EXTERNAL ] < <<

> source terminal location: UNKNOWN
> source terminal identity: UNAVAILABLE
> source login information: ENCRYPTED
> message begins

the post you are now reading is designed to dull your senses to THE TRUTH. do not live the life of the worker bee, the cog, the well-oiled piston in the MACHINE OF DECEIT!

there is a grand CONSPIRACY afoot. you have been taught to believe that you are UNIQUE, one of a kind. THIS IS NOT TRUE. long ago, a cabal of scientists created technologies to ensure that ANYONE’S MIND AND BODY can be duplicated.

human cloning isn’t NEAR. it’s already HERE. discover the truth at http://JCHutchins.net

you are being DECEIVED. break free from the cogs, flee the hive, become A PROPHET OF THE TRUTH!

kilroy2.0 was here … kilroy2.0 is everywhere

>>> [ CONTENT OVERRIDE CEASES ::: DATABASE STATUS: RECOVERING ] < <<
7. Phillip Wilkerson – An anomalous deviation
8. Gregory Conte – Deep blue
9. Kendall Station – Alto’s breakfast
10. Dzlav – Unstable star 0.25
11. 8m2stereo – Mon
12. Susan Matthews – Babies in my dream
13. Djet – NS (instrumental)

Special thanks to the Justnotnormal Netlabel for allowing Astral Audio Productions to feature this album. To find out more, visit the official website for artist links, album artwork, and where to download the release. While there, leave them a comment so they know what you think. Thanks for staying subscribed to Astral Audio Productions!

Day 3 of our series. Edging closer to the weekend and what awaits you. All I can say is that it mimics our double feature of last year. Enjoy the experience of no-R-mal CD 3.

Track List

Julie la Rousse – Waterdreams
Palancar – Summoning the daemon
Gurdonark – Rough green snake
Sighup – February 19th 2009
Diatribes,Ortis & Schlegel – Insubfest 06-06-09 C
Strøm – Gnat
:ö: – =.=
Kevin Haller – This is not a Buchla
C Reider – Captcha upgrade stickyglands
Anime Hill – Clockwork blue
Pharmakustik – Plasmoglitch
Mystified – The haze – remix
Har – Denormalized 109

Special thanks to the Justnotnormal Netlabel for allowing Astral Audio Productions to feature this album. To find out more, visit the official website for artist links, album artwork, and where to download the release. While there, leave them a comment so they know what you think. Thanks for staying subscribed to Astral Audio Productions!

Final day of our no-R-mal series. Close to 5 hours of content; our way to prepare your mind for the weekend events. So sit back, relax, and take in the final experience of no-R-mal CD 4.

Track List

jfox – Revisited 06
Achnn – Duquel goût amer
Anton Mobin – But not sick
Pighood – Exsylatir
v4w.enko – Tremolo grid ortogonal
Emerald Adrift – Phylloxera
My brother Daniel – I am in control now
Metlay! – mooZ (aebeascape 04)
Petal – Agromancer
Controlled Dissonance – When all your virtues are vices
Mystahr – Howonakemoise
Sabrina Siegel – Rock guitar
Sebo de Tripa Quartet – Scuffs

Special thanks to the Justnotnormal Netlabel for allowing Astral Audio Productions to feature this album. To find out more, visit the official website for artist links, album artwork, and where to download the release. While there, leave them a comment so they know what you think. Thanks for staying subscribed to Astral Audio Productions!

To end the week (and the month for that matter), Astral Audio Productions is proud to give you a dark electronica album by Mark Mosher. Reboot is rather short compared to the earlier albums we featured this week; however, I find it a fitting way to end your evening. Play it with the four parts of the Justnotnormal album. Yes, there are a few promos this time around but . . . they fit the mood I think.

Track List

1. Midnight
2. Stealth
3. They Walk Among Us
4. Infected
5. Alone
6. Taking It Back
7. Reboot

Promos

Two promos for Broken Sea Audio, and a cross-over promotion for Angel Between The Lines with Tales Of The Children.

Welcome to episode 1 of our Feedback Overload series where we go over your feedback and update you on the latest happenings in the realm of Astral Audio Productions. This episode, I am joined by my associate producer Michelle. She came down to Natches from NJ for a month. (As of this writing, she is back in NJ.) The show was recorded on Friday Nov 6, 2009. We spent over an hour recapping various events and generally having a blast. See below to find out the songs we played in between segments. Various aspects of Ariel Palooza were covered including song/artist selection, the feedback we received, and additional statistics. I briefly plugged my article about Ariel Publicity found on Blog Critics. October was a month in which we experienced a concert featuring The Hill Country Review from northern Mississippi, The Vettes from New Orleans, and headline by Better Than Ezra; all bands you should check out when given the opportunity. We also got to watch the new (and long awaited) release entitled Trick r Treat; it is definitely worth purchasing on Amazon. We mentioned several podcasts we are listening to including Fetidus, Broken Sea Audio, and The Leviathan Chronicles.

As far as this month, Michelle is working on new ideas and items for her store. See the sidebar for details or visit the store directly by clicking this link. I am feverishly working on my entry for National Novel Writing Month, giving you two albums by Diablo Swing Orchestra, and planning to release episodes 1 and 2 of our Beyond The Voices series. Speaking of Beyond The Voices, we are still wanting your questions for J.C. Hutchins. Visit this post for details. Finally, we poke a little fun at Chris Lester with this clip.

PlayList

The Blue Seeds – Lost And Delirious
Brant Christopher – Climb
Joshua Stedman – Fool I’ve Been
Terio – Ma Cherie
iChoRa – Lunafire
Roy Jay – California Grey
Brant Christopher – Criminal
Can’t Hang – Don’t Exist

Promo

Metamore City

Click here to view the embedded video.

Our short Christmas Eve episode featuring music from Music Alley.

Merry Christmas to all of our listeners. You have helped make this year a success for Astral Audio Productions. Crank this really stuffed episode up as you unwrap gifts and come back later today for our gift to you. All music in this episode comes from Ariel Publicity.

As our Christmas present to you (and to echo Christmases past for the video game lovers out there), we present a collection of I Fight Dragons material. This includes remixes, live recordings, interpretations of IFD songs, and also a few surprises. Enjoy!

Part one of our New Year event featuring Jonothan Coulton.#music #podcast

Part 2 of our event featuring Carl Sagan’s Ghost and the complete presentation of At The End of It All.

Our loaded conclusion to 2009 ends with songs from Every Boy, High Fidelity, Minister Hill, Nine Inch Nails, Jane’s Addiction, Street Sweeper Social Club,Powderburn, and more. Also has promos for Digital Magic, Cybrosis, and a contest to start 2010 right by Kimi of Tale Chasing.

The Problem

Before we try to answer the damaging question, we must first remind ourselves what a resolution is. N: 2. a resolve or determination: to make a firm resolution to do something. resolution. Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/resolution (accessed: January 04, 2010). So it is the intention and commitment of an individual to do something; a willing choice to take action to solve a problem. The problem is that this isn’t taking the action but merely deciding to take one.

Prime example: Procrastinators make resolutions on a daily basis, “Oh, I’ll finish this project tomorrow.” Nine times out of ten, the project remains unfinished which is the same result with resolutions for each new year. What’s worse, we are okay with not completing the goal we set for ourselves. We grow complacent and slip into an “I’ll settle for that” existence. We lower our expectations, create obstacles in the form of excuses, and see nothing wrong with the lack of growth in our personal as well as professional lives. Kind of sounds like the television and music industries doesn’t it? (Sure, you could apply this to other walks of life as well.) So what can we do to change this never-ending time loop akin to something out of Joss Wheden’s Dollhouse?

The Solution

As a kid growing up, I learned and solved problems best when I was shown a different way to tackle a particular obstacle I was facing. The same principle can be done here by looking at resolutions in a different light. We know the pattern of making a resolution, starting the chosen goal, making an excuse not to make it to the finish line, and resolving to try again “next year.” Take a moment and write down the word resolution on a piece of paper. Now, on this same piece of paper, spell the word out with spaces below the first one like so: r e s o l u t i o n. Notice anything? For just about every problem, there is a solution. N. 1. the act of solving a problem, question, etc. solution. Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/solution (accessed: January 04, 2010). So if we pick a problem, figure out how to solve that problem the best way possible, and commit ourselves to actively accomplishing the task, the ‘put off until tomorrow” attitude morphs into a “seize the day” philosophy. If we engage ourselves rather than waiting on being pulled along because we “have” to, we have a much greater chance at succeeding because we have more of an invested interest in the completed goal.

Personal Application

Last year was a definite game-changer and eye-opener for me as the Executive Producer of Astral Audio Productions. Plans I had for our flagship series, (Astral Audio Experience), have had to be scrapped. This isn’t the fault of any of the cast or myself. This is me taking a look at the problem of producing as current as possible content for you to enjoy. No one wants to hear an episode that references an event, and it turns out that your information is already out of date thanks to changes that happened overnight. The solution is to revamp every aspect of the story from the ground up. Instead of writing scripts that are reactive to what is happening now, write scripts that tell the story of the past while bringing in elements of the future. If Astral Audio Productions grows and obtains more producers/writers, we can revisit the original concept to a degree later. I won’t shed anymore light on what is to come just yet. We are to focus on the now and that means writing, researching, and producing the best audio drama experience for 2010. I will explain more in the coming weeks, and if you want to check out more of my personal ramblings, visit AstralThoughts.WordPress.com. If you provide me enough feed back there, I will move it here to the main site.

Conclusion

Near the beginning of this post, I asked “does the idea of having resolutions for the new year have as much of a damaging effect on the product as reality TV for the television industry or autotuning for music?” Considering that the “product” in this case is you, the answer is a resounding “Yes!” All three water down avenues of creativity and inspiration. Like having to resort to different ways to produce television and music, thinking of resolutions as solutions can help you view problems in a different prism. What are your resolutions for 2010 and more importantly, how can you turn them into solutions for this year? Sound off in the comments or call 206-338-2138. If you found this post useful, please use the links provided to share it.

Update Sat Jan 9, 2010 at 6:45 PM CST — Due to the overwhelming support and volunteers, we are going to also do a reading of A Psalm of Life by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow for the auction for Sonic Boom so if you aren’t used for the first poem, you will be used in the second!

Some notes:

• These works will be released under a Creative Commons – Attribution-Share Alike License so others may distribute the finished project in their podcasts provided that proper attribution to Astral Audio Productions and the entire cast is given in the show notes along with a link to the Chip In fund.
• If you agree to volunteer for this project, I will require a link to your website when you email me your file so listeners can follow the required attribution measures specified above.
• There is plenty of room for voices so the more the merrier. If possible, please retweet, stumble, digg, email audio drama groups, and reblog this post in its entirety.
• Most importantly, I want you to enjoy yourselves as you do this project. People can tell whether someone doesn’t have their heart in a vocal performance. So relax, and have fun!

A full-length album brought to you by . It is an interesting journey that I think you will enjoy. Be sure to find out more about the album by visiting http://www.tristame.com/presskit.

Now, feed us your pick(s) for the band or artist you want us to use.

This jumped out at me today and is definitely appropriate for the overall writing process I am undertaking. It is also good for those of you who are writing single episode audio dramas, short stories, you name it. What questions do you ask yourself as you write? How can the questions mentioned in this post help you improve your work? Something to think about.

This episode is different in the sense that it highlights one gender. Female vocalists are an awesome bunch when you find the right mix, and this episode dedicated to Sonic Boom showcases quite a few. As I explained to one of the artists:

Women play a huge role and often get overlooked in the mass media markets as far as music. And unfortunately, the ones who do get noticed frankly don’t catch my ear. I wanted to show that in independent circles, women can not only sound good but be just as diverse. For example, Klaryssa from Chamber of Echos had to find out the hard way what happens if you let others have creative control of your work, but with the songs I played, she was given creative rights and showed how enveloping she could make each song; as if it were an audible onion full of different layers. Your song and several others also had this characteristic for the most part. And the fact the podcast starts out with a dig on Hollywood and ends with a song on someone who thinks they have it all, it makes the overall experience that much more ironic.

We hope you enjoy and don’t forget to spread the experience! (This episode was recorded in time for most of the auction but do to extenuating circumstances could not be released until after the event. Find out how the auction did after the break.)

Song List

Kelly Harper – Charm City
Trina Elle – Stutter
Katia – Across The Universe
Isaboe – For All Our Days
Shayna Zaid & The Catch – Morning Sun
Sora – The Juniper
Melina Gerges – Salam
Jennings – Doorway
Maria Dunn – The Elder Sister
Kelly Richey / Kelly Richey Band – I want You
Sara Haze – Beautiful Day
Sara Haze – Melt Into You
The Salesmen – Assembly Line
Lily Sparks – Where Are We Today
I:Scintilla – Hollowed
I:Scintilla – Ammunition
I:Scintilla – Prey On You
Little Invisibles – What Once Was
Little Invisibles – Not One Of You
Little Invisibles – Breathless
Little Invisibles – Closer
Chamber Of Echos – The Shade Of My Spirit
Chamber Of Echos – Disenchanted
Chamber Of Echos – The Proof In The Pawn
Chamber Of Echos – Scar Tissue
Chamber Of Echos – Esoteric

Promos

• The Empress Sword
• Great Hites
• The Boom Effect (which raised over8000 dollars!)
• Out Of The Coffin Podcast
• Every World News
• The Weird Show
• Closet Treats
• The Gearheart

What do you want to see? Seriously, you come for the podcast episodes or because someone told you to check this place out. But what do you want from us to keep your interest?

For the audition file requirements and where to send them, visit the contact page and follow the instructions given. If you have any questions, please contact me on Twitter or email me. Lines are due April 17, 2010; the results will be released on here and also on the Moth Pod at a later date.

Voice-over Auditions

Narrator: No preference so anyone can take a stab at this one.

“Amongst the thick fog laden night, Alister Smith stood in darkness, cold and alone. With lantern gripped tightly in hand, Alister clung to the flickering light and what little comfort it offered. He had never been one to fear the dark, but tonight was different. On this night, the air carried with it much more than simply a faint chill. It carried with it the promise of damnation.

Paul Walker: Age 30′s-60′s, Monotone voice.

That’s how I found Rebecca. Rocking back and forth, uttering those same words again and again. The unmoving, unblinking body of our Jane Doe lying limp on the floor. Blood pooled by her ears.

James Walker: mid thirties, mid-range voice, no discernible accent

James walker lost his mother at a very young age. She was murdered by something that shouldnʼt exist–a monster under his bed. Every night since heʼs been haunted by the same strange dream about his mother. As an adult this drove James to become an alcoholic. His drinking lost him his job at Mount Sinai Hospital. He returns to Careview a broken and struggling to stay sober man. James is the skeptic of the story. When confronted by the paranormal he assumes that heʼs losing his mind and drinks to avoid admitting that it may be real. If itʼs real then it makes what happened to his mother real too.

1. She was pregnant. When he.. it.. whatever killed her, she was pregnant.

2. Did he do it? Were the rumors true? Did my father actually kill her?

Lilly Morgan: 31, energetic voice. no discernible accent.

Lilly never knew her parents. Her grandmother told her that they had died in a car crash. She knows better. She knows that it had to do with something called Project 31. Grandma Rosa, owner of the Blue Diner, raised Lilly. Now that Rosa is healing from a broken hip, itʼs Lillyʼs turn to take care of her grandmother. Lillyʼs heritage is Romani, or Gypsy. Rosa forbid Lilly from learning about the mystic arts, but that didnʼt stop her. Despite the frequent blood letting involved Lilly approaches rituals with a childlike wonder. Lilly is a kind-hearted and cheerful individual, but still she does have her Grandmotherʼs temper. Lilly had a high school crush on James.

1. Well, I take this clay bowl, which represents the earth then I pour in this river water, representing life, and these apple cores and dried figs, representing
death. After that, submerge this brass candlestick holder.

2. Oh, well this represents the only candlestick holder I could find, but this black candle supposedly represents a beacon for spirits and other otherworldly ghoulies. Nifty, huh?

Casey Brown: 62. varies from an energetic to monotone voice. Jersey accent.

Jersey born Casey Brown is a shadow of the man he used to be. He is the lone surviving witness to Project 31. On that night he lost someone very close to him. He could have saved her, but his lack of action lead to her death. After Project 31 Casey was left with the ability to dream about the fates of all of those he meets. No longer able to simply stand by doing nothing, he has become a vigilante of sorts. Heʼs the kind of man that doesnʼt care about how many sins he racks up as long as he gets the job done. Casey is a charmer and a smart-ass. Itʼs only a mask though. Inside heʼs dead.

1. Now thing about these worlds is that each one is headed by it very own God. And when I say God, I mean supreme overlord, creator of the lands, destroyer of worlds, I’ll smote thee, God.

2. After a few millennia of this, civil war breaks out. Now while I’m all for these schmucks tearing themselves apart, there is one problem with that scenario.
Ya see, all these dark worlds are completely isolated from each other, with the exception of one world that acts as a bridge to them all. Care to guess
what world that happens to be?”

Allison Smith: Early twenties. Energetic voice. Near valley girl accent.

Allison is a twenty-something cheerleader turned goth. Her unique style emerged as a way of rebelling against her farther after he married her step-mother. Some people fall in with the wrong crowd. Allison fell in with a hell god. Allison has a scrapbook collection reserved for serial killers. Sheʼs the Careview Slasherʼs biggest fan. Allison is basically a psycho valley girl.

1. That’s why I have to kill you. Like you’re the best slasher around. You’re on top of your game. You’re a legend, and like we can’t have that tarnished now can we?

2. (SIGH) He really was such a disappointment. And he had so much promise (PAUSE) What a tragedy. Especially since that bitch that decapitated him ended
up with a book deal. (PAUSE) Did I TiVo that episode of Oprah?

Rex Alvez: mid thirties, mid-range voice, hispanic but no discernible accent.

Rex is a happily married working class man. A childhood geek turned jock. His modest life is turned upside down once he started sleepwalking… again.

1. Sure. (LAUGH) As a kid growing up, my interests included little league, Star Wars, and running through the streets at night screaming. I’m sure that would have gone over real well.

2. (OUT OF BREATH) So why’d you two nutty kids break it off?

Rosa Kaddilli: Late 80’s and mid 50’s. Stern voice. Eastern european accent.

An Eastern European Immigrant. Lost her husband during WWII. Lost her daughter and son-in-law during Project 31. Raised her granddaughter Lilly on her own. Keeps lots of secrets. Is very over-protective.

1. (COYLY) For you Casey, it means that you are quite the lucky man.

2. You have been bestowed with one of the many gifts only held by the oracles. In your case, that gift appears to be a limited form of the sight

Richard Marshal: Fifties. Booming voice. No discernible accent.

Cop. Loud-mouth. Smart-ass. Huge build and a temper to match.

1. Well, Mr. Brown it’s exactly because of those things that you know that we brought you in here for questioning.

2. You’re Paul Walker’s boy? Your dad is that psychiatrist guy that killed his wife.

Derek: Early twenties. Nervous/spacay voice. No discernible accent.

Twenty-something junkie. Allisonʼs on and off boyfriend.

1. Ally?” Yeah. Well, I mean we have an on and off relationship… Now it’s mostly off.

Doug: Forties. Laid back voice. Jamaican accent.

Jamaican accent. Not much is known about him. He seems to pop up everywhere.

1. Apparently when guarding a warehouse, you’re supposed to guard the warehouse.

2. That’s right. Tomorrow is Halloween. I imagine that would be a busy day for you. What with the blood letting and pagan rituals.

Alister Smith: Sixties. Classy voice. British accent.

British. Man behind Project 31. Rosaʼs lover in the 40ʼs. Allisonʼs grandfather.

1. What if I told you that I made such a deal 31 years ago tonight? What if I told you that all of this, (SIGH) all of it, was because I sold my soul?

2. (SOMBER) Thirty-one years. (PAUSE) To a foolish young man it’s a lifetime. I didn’t realize that it would be a death sentence. You have no idea what it is like. It taints everything. Death’s shadow knows no bounds.

Robert Tam: Thirties. Energetic voice. Country-boy accent.

Country-boy. Has a connection to Project 31 and James.

1. They get it Al. You sold your soul to Cervenoko (sir-van-oh-co) 31 years ago for a taste of the high life. Now you have cold feet, and making her a little bit dead just might warm those hoofs of yours right back and proper.

2. Now I’ve gone and offended you. I’m sorry Al. Your naked woman is a mighty fine piece of art. Isn’t that right Davy?

Nonconformity is one of those hidden gems not discussed much as a motive for podcasting fiction. It is implied that the product can’t be put into a nifty little box. “This is horror. This is science fiction.” And the ways podcasted novels have evolved into full cast productions can be considered logical, amazing, and a wonderful use of the tools given. Why are authors choosing to turn the written word into audio drama? Engage the listener (and potential customer) by creating a richer experience. Hutch is breaking away from the mold and I applaud him for doing so because the world needs more misfits. (Side note: You should read the latest newsletter I received from Chris Brogan; it expands on this not fitting in thing in better detail)

We all create worlds in our own ways and while there is a growing urge to focus on the self, (How can I get a better bang for my buck? Do I switch to producing some free content and have listeners pay for the rest? etc), there isn’t that sense of raising the bar. If we want to make podcasting a truly lasting part of the written culture like movies/tv/video games etc, we have to become more tightly knit. As it stands, this body is wriggling on the floor at moments, observing individual parts flex their muscles, running hard with fast starts out the gate, dazzling the crowds occasionally (Amazon sales rankings anyone?), but that well-oiled machine vibe isn’t present. Sure, a lot of us focus on our individual projects and encourage each other on Twitter FB etc, but there is more to support than retweets, promoting content, and buying books. We have discussions on forums and some people will chat on skype … what about conference calls so authors can bounce ideas back and forth? The skeletal framework is in need of some old fashioned physical conditioning. We should be willing to branch out and have podcasting as part of the whole … go into more uses of YouTube. (We like web series like The Guild. Surely, there can be web series based on the podcasted written content.) We like comics … figure out how to get more works done as graphic novels.

There are two glaring excuses looming over it all: “We don’t have the time,” and “We tried that before.” You get what you put in when it comes to creativity and I’m as guilty as anyone in not including more people of different backgrounds into my projects. But if we feel we don’t have the time, stop writing, stop creating, say you are done and move on; a “Poor pity me” cynic is worth cutting off. If we have tried that before, we wouldn’t be in the spot we find ourselves in; filled with doubt, debating over how to play the hand we are dealt, and feeding into the fear of failure.

The only way to break the cycle in my view is to stop being a reactionary community and start being a truly proactive one; this means quality over quantity, embracing all forms of entertainment to keep the listeners we have and attract new ones who may in turn buy our work, and also tap into markets that aren’t embraced much at all save for strictly best-selling books. (I am specifically meaning braille books in this case.) Audio is great but what 99% of you take for granted is the fact that there is a large community of patrons just waiting to get fiction and read it. Braille is a dying breed thanks to technology, but I feel that it still has it’s place. I personally wouldn’t have been introduced to a little book series about Harry Potter if I hadn’t gotten my hands on a copy from a braille publisher. There are many options open to us. Let’s stop looking at door numbers 1,2, and 3 and open them all. What do you say?

The Background

Doctors said I wouldn’t make it when arrived in this world, and if by some chance I did, I would be burdened with complications ranging from not being able to walk, or hear, have major brain damage; you name it. I dodged a bullet with sight being the only victim. My parents raised me to be outside the box, to take risks and try my best, to do what makes me happy, to explore and grow as a person, and most importantly, to experience all this life offers.

The principles and precepts that were instilled in me as a youth were reflected back at me when I came across a profile on OKCupid. She was witty, curious, different than your jaded, desperate woman. She seemed to approach things with a child-like sense of wonder, embraced her offbeat personality, was artistic, and geeky to boot. (How could I resist?)

I didn’t care about the distance; I wanted to get to know her. We chatted over im a couple times and my computer crashed thanks to a fried motherboard. I had an ace up my sleeve, her phone number. Those of you who podcast or listen to podcasts can understand the connection when you hear someone’s voice. We chatted on the phone and learned while having fun. She told me her interests, what she wanted to do with her life, and I did the same. We laughed and had this instant vibe of clicking. I remember that she was going to go on a date with some guy and how disappointed I was. To be clear, I wasn’t disappointed with her; instead, I was worried about what I will call the “Nice Guy Effect.” Still, I persisted even though my head warned me that I might get the “Let’s just be friends” proposal since I was the Nice Guy type. That guy who is polite, seems too good to be true because it is rare to find someone who wants to get to know you romantically for your heart and personality rather than your body or for lustful reasons; that was me.

As fate would have it, the date never happened and Michelle has given me 365 days of enjoyment. Like my parents, she shows me things in a different light and reflects those core principles that have helped shape the person I am today. She has augmented my joy and happiness by simply being herself. We know what the other person thinks, feels, wants, dreams of, (even though some of those dreams might make creepy as hell horror stories), and through it all, we grow closer as two individuals; both distinct personalities but with goals that overlap in multiple areas of our lives.

Why and how this effects you?

Michelle and I are at a point where the distance is no longer a workable scenario. And as dire as that may sound, I want to stress that we embrace the solution with excited, nervous, enthusiastic fervor. I have lived with or around my parents for 25 years; partially for economic reasons, partially for moral support, partially because it is easy to walk on the rope when the net is there to catch you when you fall. I have always had an obsession with eagles; it stems back to my years of training at various points in Ruston Louisiana. Students are awarded a small bell with an eagle perched atop, its wings spread as if it is about to take flight into the unknown. The eagle represents independence, liberty, intelligence, loyalty, and courage. So in short, this eagle is ready to fly.

Now, for those of you who don’t *really* know Michelle, she has a thing for owls. I made a point of it to make her a couple ceramic ones while I was in Jackson Mississippi last spring. Owls are wise, majestic birds which are like eagles in many respects. I’m smiling now just at the thought of the largest owl there is, the eagle owl. And so, I am planning to make a trip to New Jersey in mid May; it will be a one-way flight. I am scared of what the future holds, but I still am ready to take this chance and fly into the unknown. I hope to make new connections and spread my wings in a new area, to face the challenges of moving into a new location with the utmost enthusiasm and logical thinking, (Captain Picard would be proud), and to simply embrace the opportunities that will present themselves in the coming months. This isn’t, (and it won’t be), easy; however, I have thrived at beating the odds since I came into this world on May 17, 1984 and plan on doing so simply because I can. I have the tools to succeed and it is up to me to use them wisely.

If you’ve been paying to the discussion J. Daniel Sawyer and I have been brewing, you know that I’m really on an outside the box kick. I plan on applying this philosophy as I find out what’s in store in NJ or wherever Michelle and I land. I still plan on building the framework along with Dan for the creative group; it will just take a little longer for some aspects. I see a lot of potential in holding creative discussions with those of you who would be interested in joining us in this venture. The same can be said for Dark Worlds: Project 31. It is the only audio project I have on tap for this year, and it will happen. Auditions are being extended for nearly another month just to allow people to try out and also because I’m going to visit family around the original deadline.

How can you help?

For those who know me best, they can tell you I hate asking for help. Call it pride, call it being stubborn, call it being too independent; it goes against my usual way of doing things. I’m getting better at it though. My main focus is getting ready for my move in May, and so next month will be where I get my ducks in a row. There will be a contest announced in the coming days, but for the now, any donation you can make would be greatly appreciated. This place is a labor of love for me, and I enjoy bringing content to you. Your donations go directly to the hosting bill and help keep this little realm of the web alive and kicking. If there’s anything else on the help front, I will let you know. But if you enjoy what I do, let me know by donating; just click that donation button in the sidebar.

Final Thoughts

I am grateful for every person who reads, subscribes, downloads, or listens to an episode. Your enjoyment fuels the fire for me more often than not, and thanking you is but a mere ounce of what each of you is worth. This coming year promises to be one of opportunity, change, collaboration, and excitement. I want to give you the best experience possible so give me your ideas, your vision, your suggestions, and support.

To my parents:

Words can only reflect the emotion of the moment. You gave me the tools, the knowhow, and the experiences that helped make this decision possible. I know you will be with me in spirit, cradling me in your loving embrace; always at the ready when I ask for advice. Even though this will be hard, I know that I am making you proud by taking flight into the unknown, boldly going where your walking miracle has never gone before.

To The Mishmo:

I couldn’t find a nifty card to accurately reflect how happy you have made me. (Remember how I said your profile was nifty all those many moons ago?) I have enjoyed all of our online movie dates, our epic journey through the first and second seasons of Dollhouse, my being introduced to the wonder that is Wonderfalls, the rediscovery of my love for anime; the gifts that were handpicked or made by you, your thoughtfulness, your infectious disposition. I love how creative and resourceful you are when you tackle a project. You have been that little extra lift under my wings when I have needed it, and for that, I thank you. I am excited for the next chapter in the Book of the Dynamic Duo and can’t wait to start it with you. Happy Anniversary, Number 1. (A relationship built based on communication! What a concept!)

To my friends, readers, subscribers, listeners, word spreaders, colleagues, and anyone else interested:

The dark forest that looms in front of me may be a scary one, but I am comforted by the shade provided by the trees. I look forward to making magic with you cheering me on and taking part in the overall experience that is Astral Audio Productions. Don’t just live life, experience it!

Have something to say? Leave a comment.

Weighing in at 227MB and spanning 3 hours and 17 minutes long, it holds an Astral Audio Productions record of 31 songs, 30 plus minutes of jabber, and 15 promos; Feedback Overload episode 2! Surely, I am insane or trying to drive you insane with the amount of content. Still, I wanted to end this season with a bang. We finished strong with 1,280 plus downloads for the month of March. I hope to see us edge closer to 2,000 for April. (Can you make it happen?) We recap the various events that have taken place since the start of 2010, let you know how auditions are going for Project 31, fill you in on a new contest going on until May 17, and announce an upcoming poll that will ask you to pick your favorite episode. Hang tight after the break to see the huge track list and links to the promoted podcasts!

Playlist

The Twin Cats – Dax McCarty’s Magic Elixir
Purple Tree – Got to be Free
In The Cinema – Midday Refuge
Mark Radcliffe – InTheSun
Shawn Fisher – You Got Me
Peter Comes From Neverland – Trigger
Show Me The Skyline – May
John Brodeur – Make A Change
Elizabeth Tryon – Fire Inside
Nadia Kazmi – Julian
Sokoband – Jiriki
Taína Asili y La Banda Rebelde – It’s In Our Hands
Cady Finlayson & Vita Tanga – Foggy Dew
Vitamin-D – The Summer Crossing
Dudley Saunders – Love Song For Jeffrey Dahmer
Strait Laces – Where The Wolf Roam
Strange Lights – Poe
Motion Potion – Cantinabomb (MoPo’s 2010 ReBoot)
FARRAD – PICK YOUR FACE UP OFF THE FLOOR
Black Madam – Come’on In My Kitchen
Zach Maxwell – When I Rise
Alta Mira – Slumberjack
Kelli Renee – Addicted
Te Vaka – Ata Fou
8 Ball Aitken – Black Swamp Creek
The Roast Beef Curtains – 5th Base Girl
Megaphone – Gravitate
Tristan Clopet – Ethereal Evidence
Manafest – No Plan B
Chapman – Raffi’s Song (The Answer is Love)
Atomic Skunk – Forest for the Trees

Promos

Prisoners of the Alliance
V & A Shipping
Free Will and Other Compultions
Wander Radio
Mad Poet Files
Dreaming of Deliverence
The Guild of the Cowry Catchers, Book 1 Embers
Pseudopod
Dead Robots Society
Dead Hunt
Variant Frequencies
Polyamory Weekly
Luscious Leftovers
The Good Parts
The Starter

For all auditions: send lines to Auditions (at) Astral Audio dot net adding yourname_character auditioned for in the subject line. Samples should be in
either 16 bit PCM wav format or at least 160kbps mp3 format with a sample rate of 44100KHZ. The deadline is April 21, 2010 at 11:00 PM Eastern. Exceptions
can be made if the request is reasonable (i.e. family gets in the way). Try to be as prompt as possible. The author, Zack Daggy, will email the chosen
members of the voice cast by May 1, 2010 at which time we will begin work on the podcast novel. A couple things to keep in mind:
1. Do at least three takes of each line or as many as you need to feel comfortable. We will want you to not only voice these characters but feel as though
you embody the character.
2. Have fun with it. This is a chance for you to shine and since this project will require a lot of lines once the cast is set, we want a group of people
who are enthusiastic. I will personally be handling the editing and am planning skype calls with whomever is picked so we get the best interactions possible.

Lines

Paul Walker Age 30′s-60′s, Monotone voice.

Doug: Forties. Laid back voice. Jamaican accent.

[poll id="6"]

Playlist

Miles – All Along
Danika Holmes – Pockets Full Of Gold
Zach Maxwell – I Wanna Meet
FeelGood – People On The Ground
Amy Coleman – Mother
Stephen Luke – Santa Ana Winds
Don Sprik – Lost Without Your Fire
The Nadas – Crystal Clear
Rebel Bran – Bluesers
< a href="http://www.jensenkeets.com/">Jensen Keets – Manifest
Bone Gunn – Flies (Desmond in the Doorway Mix)
In The Cinema – Keep It All
Luke Parkin – The Gathering Storm
Trishna – Icebreaker
Motion Potion – War on the Dance Floor (MoPo’s 2010 ReBoot)
Derek and the Darling – Hustler with a Rescue Plan
Michael Behm – It’s My Time
Million Dollar Mouth – Snakes
Subanez – Resemblance
Manafest – Impossible
Lauren O’Brien – inconsequential dream
Frequency Theater – Over The Edge

Promos

Merciless Story Tellers
Carrie P’s Coctail Party
Parsec Awards
Sounds For Soldiers
Murder At Avadon Hill print release
Billy Barbarian
Pod Culture
Dead Mech
Eyes And Knives
Geologic Podcast
What The Cast
QN Podcast
Shadow Cast Audio
Icebox Radio
Command Line Podcast
Dark Journey Collection
Ja Sampson Monster Hunter: Gods Of War

Things that need your attention

First, the contest has been getting close to no major entries. I’ve decided to move the final deadline up to July 21 with the winner(s) announced on July 31 in a recorded podcast episode.

Second, the interest from the actors for the upcoming podcast novel has been great. I look forward to working with each one and bringing Zack Daggy’s characters to life. Where I need help is for people to step up and sign on as producers to help with the audio editing process. This will give me less work and less risk for burn out since I am also having to juggle finding a real time gig for stable employment. The audio production line of work is my dream. I’d love to be doing it full time, but for now, it isn’t possible. So we deal with the cards in our hand and make the most of it. If you are interested in helping out with the audio production, send me an email as soon as possible. Info is on the contact page.

Third, we will be ramping up into full production mode starting in July. That means working with the cast, getting lines, making sure the scripts are doable for our actors to perform to the best of their ability. We have a long climb ahead if we want to make our October 31 deadline for the first episode; hence why we want as many people helping out with the audio editing process as possible to make things easier.

Next, I’m ready to break free! No seriously, I’m in the mood to meet up with listeners and fellow podcasters in the area. Part networking opportunity and part sales pitch, Astral Audio Productions will be having a tweetup in late July. I’ll be picking the place this week sometime and then the Eventful listing will be made. We will be giving away CDs of artists we have featured, spendng time with you the fans, and spreading the word about what we do.

Final Thoughts

I’m really eager and at the same time apprehensive about moving forward this summer. Most of my creative energy is being put into one basket. There is both good and bad in this strategy. Good being that I don’t have to be sidetracked with other projects. Badness creeps up in the uncertainty of actual interest for the project. Considering that I haven’t been getting emails as far as contest entries, I’m sure you can see where my head is leaning at this point. I’m not going to guilt you into being interested for this upcoming podcast novel. If you’re truly interested, great. If not, okay. My feeling is that I go where the winds of interest push me. As much as I want to do this project, there hangs in the air the knowledge that if there is a groundswell of lack of interest in Astral Audio Productions taking this one on and instead the listeners wanting us to get back to cranking out strictly music podcasts, then everything gets put back on the drawing board. So consider this your chance to tell me what you want. Do you want Astral Audio Productions to give you this podcast novel, or do you want us to move on to other ventures? Speak up in the comments.

EAVB_WLTXMSZSDD

We want to help Scott make it back onto the New York Times bestseller list, and this is the week to do it. So go buy a copy or two or three at your book store or click the banner at the top of this post which will take you to the Amazon page. Expect a full review of the book once I’ve finished mainlining the audio version.

Note: It doesn’t matter file type but do keep the quality at least in the 44100khz range so we can have a good listen to your voice. Send the lines to auditions@astralaudio.net

Richard Marshal: Cop. Loud-mouth. Smart-ass. Huge build and a temper to match.

Lines

“Well, Mr. Brown, it’s exactly because of those things that you know that we brought you in here
for questioning. You see, we value every tip that we receive concerning The Careview Slasher, but yours, well, yours are especially valued. I mean the accuracy of the information that you give us is uncanny. Take that tip you
gave us just last week. You told us that we’d find the next victim of the slasher in an upstairs bedroom closet.”
<98a9d833797448af983241aa9215b68e>

Update: Our narrator has also had to drop out due to reasons I won’t discuss here. Here’s the info. Deadline for both parts has been adjusted accordingly.

Narrator:

No preference so anyone can take a stab at this one.

“Amongst the thick fog laden night, Alister Smith stood in darkness, cold and alone. With lantern gripped tightly in hand, Alister clung to the flickering light and what little comfort it offered. He had never been one to fear the dark, but tonight was different. On this night, the air carried with it much more than simply a faint chill. It carried with it the promise of damnation.”

Expect another post later today with other updates.

What does this mean? I’ve been flexing my influence around the web and growing my network on the social game, Empire Avenue. Think of it as a place to measure what you do on the web. For every action, the site helps determine a value of your influence. Currently, it helps if you have Twitter, Facebook, Flicker, and your blog connected. The more activity and engagement you have on each of these proverbial spokes, the better off the wheel is in gaining traction. The site is in invite only beta but that will change on this coming Wednesday. So if you want in before then, comment on this post and I’ll send you an invite. Or, if you sign up on Wednesday and want to invest in me, just look for (e)ASTRAL. You will notice I put a widget up that tracks my current stock price. How cool is that?

When I started Astral Audio Productions, I didn’t know where it would take me. I have enjoyed giving you the listeners content from various genres of music, and I will continue to do so. I enjoy the opportunity I get and want to keep doing it as long as I can. I want to delve back into audio drama but I feel like we have to get back there. Dark Worlds: Project 31 is facing a hard road ahead. Auditions were not as plentiful as I would have hoped but we make do. I like the cast we have lined up but truth be told, this project is working on borrowed time. To do it right, I wanted to meet with each cast member individually and in groups; indeed, this was the original plan. Things changed as the reshuffling began. Also, Zack Daggy has been battling health issues. While I pull the strings from a technical stand point, he is the creative force behind the body of work we are trying to adapt. People love the scripts so far and I know the cast is eager to get started. Still, I am apprehensive. Why?

The first episode is slated for an October 31 release. And it is looking more and more like we won’t make that deadline with all the self-promotion and we have to do before then; never mind the whole process of putting the podcast novel together. It takes time and I’m sorry to say that my time isn’t as available as it was earlier in the year. So consider this an open admission that what I had planned may not take place. My financial security looks like it is needing more and more attention than other activities. With the economy the way it is, job hunting is more of my main focus.

I’m going to evaluate what I have planned for the rest of the year and decide what to do. The perfectionist in me wants to knock Project 31 out the ball park and show potential employers my talent. But to produce the best product means taking time, more time than any of the cast volunteered for.

Of course, your opinions and suggestions are more than welcome; it is why I’m posting this now. Whether you are coming here from Twitter, or Facebook, or Empire Avenue, I want to know your thoughts. Simply leave a comment or question. As always, your opinion matters. It is okay if you aren’t clued into what a podcast is or about Project 31. I’ll still take what you say into account in the final decision making process.

I know this post sounds rather doom and gloom but I assure you that this isn’t the case. I’m just taking stock of what matters and how I can bring better value to the people I know.

As far as a final decition on the Project 31 front, I will have a talk with Zack in the coming days to assess things, but I still want your comments in the previous post so get them in! Future installments of the revamp series will cover the following:

• Website usability.
• Improved interaction.
• Audio quality and content.
• Website redesign and upkeep.
• Anything else you can think of. (Just leave a comment in this post of what you might want looked over in the coming weeks and I’ll consider it.)