Gangs of New York

Just finished watching "Gangs of New York". It's probably the fifth time I've seen it and it is a fantastic movie. Well-crafted story, Daniel Day-Lewis once more divulges himself in a ruthless, yet empathetic character (I see many connections between Bill the Butcher and Daniel Planiview), and the cinematography is beautiful. The way 19th New York City is reconstructed is wonderful. Likewise, Scorcese, as he does in many of his films, completely immerses the view in a deep experience. The characters have so much depth that you feel a range of emotions. A complex conflict also exists and, once more in Scorcese-fashion, is shown from start to finish so that a sense that the whole story unfolded before you without any missing pieces is achieved. B+ movie and another reason why Martin Scorcese is one of my favorite, if not my favorite, directors. Definitely and enjoyable movie. Highly recommended.

Lupe last Friday was fantastic. Played a pretty extended set (about an hour and a half).

Highlights:

+"The Coolest" acapella

+"Superstar" with Lupe singing the first chorus

+"Daydreamin'" high-energy encore.

Of course all his tracks were nasty and he puts on a great show. Tons of energy and gets the crowd into it. Not to mention waiting outside of Brown's auditorium he rolled by in his car and his hype man, Bishop G (check out "Fighters" to hear a name drop) yelled at us. Holla.

***

The man said he ain't own watches no more

time's ain't no matter, just an eye-sore

I've seen hatred and I've seen war

man's all ripped up, like his paper heart tore

kinda like the frays right down the middle of his Times

said it helps him learn how to read between the lines

It's fine to stay numb to everything I've seen

I remember young Sadie, the homecoming queen

brought her to the river just to dangle off the dock

first black boy to show pretty Sadie how to rock

but her Pop came down and showed me off his shot

put two shells in the air and Sadie went and dropped

My legs picked up my bones and I ran into the night

Sadie splashed in the lake and I took off in fright

Shame her Pops didn't know pretty Sadie couldn't swim

her wet blonde curls ain't blowin in the wind

they just sat, like a doll, just glued onto her face

Daddy killed his own daughter over her man's race...