To Do List: Movies, Books, Music and Food

Sometimes we all need to be told what to do. Trying to wade through all the crap out there to find the things that are actually good or at least different is tough. Luckily I am willing to throw some recommendations your way to help you out. This is my To Do List to you.

Movie To See: The Hurt Locker

See it. It's still in some theaters and now on DVD. Then after you see it you can tell James Cameron to go to hell. This was one of the best movies this past year and it didn't need giant blue CGI people to shock and awe. It's a solid, tense action movie for people that have a hard time suspending their disbelief. The Hurt Locker stays with you for long after the credits.

If you have time, also see: Up In The Air

Book to read: Asterios Polyp by David Mazzucchelli

Technically it's a "graphic novel" but I am recommending this book to everybody. No superheros in this comic just a 50-something Greek architect from Ithaca, New York. Full of wonderful characters and design Asterios Polyp does more than tell the story of this man's mid life crisis , it examines the mysteries of life and death, design and art and a bunch of other dualities. Never read a graphic novel before? Good, start with this one.

If you have time, also read: How I Became A Famous Novelist by Steve Hely (My book club didn't like it but I laughed my ass off through most of it)

Music to listen to: Tomes

Tomes is the best band that nobody knows. Well, I want to help change that. You need to hear them because my descriptions of their music will not do them justice. Download the free EP, love it and spread the word.

If you got time: The Avett Brothers

I've mentioned them before and I'll do it again. These guys are good. They will be on Austin City limits this Saturday and I will be watching while drinking some cheap bourbon. Who wants to join me?

Food to eat: Pho

Pho, ain't nothing wrong with that!