June's Underappreciated Music: Shark Alley Hobos, "Off The Deep End: A Musical Tribute to Jaws"

This week, The Discovery Channel is hosting it's most famous programming event of each year, Shark Week. I've been a fan from Day 1, so I'm always in the mood for quality shark programming this time of year.

Yes, I just used the phrase "quality shark programming" in a sentence. I defy you to find that anywhere else.

I came across this gem yesterday thanks to Spotify. The album is called Off The Deep End: A Musical Tribute to Jaws by a group called the Shark Alley Hobos, a San Fransisco-based band that obviously has an affection for the best shark movie ever made. Here you will find tongue-in-cheek ballads and lyrics all related to Jaws. Some songs are even from the point of view of the characters.

I've been a fan of "nerdcore" music for some time now, and this Jaws-based effort is a delight. I'm happy to have found it and to share it with you here.




To learn more about the Shark Alley Hobos and purchase the album for yourself, visit their Web site.

"Here's to swimmin' with bow-legged women!"

Summertime Fun with WHAM-O!

Summertime! The season of cookouts, swimming pools, the beach, and other outdoor entertainment. One company that's aided us in our summertime amusement is legendary toy company WHAM-O! Here are just a few of their childhood-inspiring inventions!

Water Wiggle! Try not to get whipped and maimed by this thing.



In the same vein, and perhaps slightly less malicious, is the Fun Fountain. A more tame alternative to the Water Wiggle, this still could be traumatizing for those with a pathological fear of clowns.



Then again, if you prefer to live dangerously, what's more harrowing in your backyard during the summer months than ye olde Slip 'N' Slide?



Of course, not all summertime toys are water-related. Relive the simple fun of the classic Frisbee!



Here is WHAM-O's Super Balloon. I don't know if I recall anyone in my neighborhood having one of these, and I have a hard time imagining that users didn't get bored with this after five minutes. Feel free to prove me wrong in the comments!



Lastly, an all-time classic toy I've never been able to master for very long--the hula hoop!



Of course, all of these pale in comparison to everyone's childhood favorite--Log!



Now get away from whatever screen you're reading this on and GO OUT AND PLAY! IT'S SUMMER!