Decadence

Maria Friberg - Embedded #5 (2006)

The state of the union is most transparent when housewives of orange county use the word decadence to esteem themselves. This weekend's annual charade in hollow celebrity worship is partly orchestrated by Orprah Winfrey, who unfortunately clouds her potentially powerful messages with a tragic taste for the high thread-count bedding of riches and fame. Millions of Americans tonight will focus on Julia Roberts perpetuating the idea that the pinnacle of achievement is dressing in an extravagant temporary gown and receiving millions of dollars via a little metal statue because she once pretended to be a character in someone else's story. The root of decadence is decay; a moral and artistic deterioration caused by excess, self-indulgence, and lack of responsibility. These attributes are now woven proudly into artless handbags, embroidered with 'D-I-V-A' for our daughters, and faithfully promoted to CEO.

Elizabeth Harper - Trouble In The Palace (mp3)

Because I'm supposed to be unwaveringly proud to be an American, I tell you a story about a celebrity today. Jim Carey formed the darkly maniacal character for his upcoming movie 23 by listening to Nine Inch Nails, Slipknot, Einsturzende Neubauten, and Skinny Puppy... a group who depth is just as new-wave as metal. If you're interested in Jim Carey's The Number 23, send me your mailing address and I'll drape you in excess with a free movie pass to see it, a copy of the soundtrack, a t-shirt, a hat, and a poster. The address is only used to send you the free goods, don't worry...

Blond Redhead - 23 (mp3)

Nine Inch Nails - Me, I'm Not (mp3)