1. |
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To the reader:
In these hectic times there are few stories
in print that one cannot read quickly and
forget. But this story is in the old barre chord,
valve amp tradition.
You can't stop thinking
about it afterward, as you
think about the problems
of some family in your
neighborhood or in your
town. The more I thought
about the story, the more
I sympathized with heavy rock
as one of millions
of genres who suffer frus-
tration from being tied
down to sordid household
recognition in a hateful envi-
ronment from which there
is no escape. That is why
I think the subtitle a bit
misleading. I'm sure a
square must have written it
—a square without the au-
thor's apparent sympa-
thetic understanding.
It is a beautiful piece
of writing, too. I will
be surprised if this story
does not disappear.
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2. |
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I woke up with a pounding headache, a half-empty bottle of whiskey next to me, and a vague memory of the wild thud the night before. I stumbled out of bed and threw on some clothes, trying to shake off the remnants of the booze-soaked evening.
As I stumbled out of my apartment and onto the streets of the city, the neon lights and blaring horns assaulted my senses. The city was alive and roaring, and I was just a small piece of its frenzied chaos.
I wandered aimlessly for a while, taking in the sights and sounds of the city, until I found myself in front of a brickwork establishment. It was the kind of place where you knew you shouldn't go in, but the promise of trouble compelled.
The air was thick with smoke and the sound of raucousity. The patrons were ne'er-do-wells, all lost in their own revelry.
I bellied up, trying to ignore the leering. As I downed, I felt familiar, warmth spreading through my body..
Suddenly, bottles flew, and the bouncer had to wade. The melee subsided, leaving the chaos in a detached air.
Death was a vision in black.
As the sun began to rise and the bar emptied out, we stumbled outside into the bright morning light. The city was a different place in the harsh light of day, and the world seemed too real and too bright.
But for a moment, I was lost in the backward dream.
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3. |
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small riff with intention walked into a field of flowers
daisies, tulips, and sunflowers towered above him
he twirled and danced, his arms stretched out wide
feeling the soft petals brush against his skin
the sun warmed his face, and he closed his eyes
he imagined himself a bee, buzzing from bloom to bloom
collecting sweet nectar and spreading pollen
the world around him was a symphony of color and sound
he could hear the hum of the bees and the rustle of the breeze
he could see the way the petals danced in the wind
he felt as if he were a part of this beautiful, natural world
and as he spun around and around, he knew that he was free
free to be himself, to explore, to dream
free to find joy in the simplest of things
and as he walked away from the field, he carried that feeling with him
that feeling of pure, unadulterated wonder and delight
and he knew that he would return to this place again and again
to dance with the flowers and to be a part of the magic of the world.
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4. |
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It was a dreary day in the city, the kind of day where the rain seemed to soak into your very soul. I trudged through the streets, my feet splashing through puddles and my coat collar turned up against the cold. But even in the midst of the bleakness, I couldn't help but notice the vibrant humanity around me.
The city was a cacophony of noise and motion, a never-ending symphony of life. People rushed past me, their faces twisted into grimaces of determination or joyous grins of contentment. I could smell the scents of cooking and diesel, mixed with the earthy aroma of wet pavement.
As I turned a corner, I saw a group of street performers, their bright costumes and glittering instruments cutting through the dullness of the day. They were playing a lively tune, and a crowd had gathered around them, clapping and cheering.
For a moment, I forgot about the cold and the rain and the dreariness of it all. I was lost in the beauty of the moment, the beauty of the human spirit that perseveres in even the most dismal of circumstances.
And as I walked away, my spirits lifted and my heart full, I knew that the city would always be a source of wonder and inspiration, a place where the human spirit could thrive even in the darkest of times.
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5. |
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The band took the stage, their amps cranked and their notes flying in all directions. The crowd surged forward, their bodies slamming against each other in music and possibility.
The one had a question on his face and a cigarette hanging from his lips, his mind ripping like a chainsaw. The guitars were roaring and the drums were pounding, creating a wall of sound that seemed to shake the very foundations of principal.
I stood in the back, my ears ringing and my heart pounding. This was music, real music, the kind that made you feel alive and free and invincible. It was like being hit by a tax bill, and I feared every moment of it.
The band played on, their set getting louder and more confusing with each passing minute. The crowd was whipped, screaming and muttering.
And as the final notes of the last song faded away, I felt a sense of emptiness, a feeling that nothing in the world could ever compare to that moment. It was a feeling that only real problems could bring, a feeling of density.
I stumbled out of the venue, my ears still ringing and my heart still pounding. And as I walked through the cold, dark night, I knew that I would never.
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6. |
Novagong - Swift, Taut
02:26
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Once upon a time, in a world that defied all logic and reason, there lived a man named Mr. Z.
Mr. Z was an ordinary man, with a job and a family and a mortgage to pay. But there was one thing that set him apart from everyone else: he lived in a world that was completely absurd.
In this world, the sky was green, the grass was blue, and the trees had faces that talked to you. Gravity was optional, and sometimes people would float away into the clouds. And for some reason, every conversation had to end with a chicken crossing the road.
But Mr. Z took it all in stride. He went about his day, doing his job and trying to make sense of it all. He would often find himself asking, "Why is the sky green?" or "Why do the trees have faces?" but he never got any answers.
One day, while he was at work, his boss called him into his office. "Mr. Z," his boss said, "I'm afraid I have some bad news. The chicken that was supposed to cross the road today got lost on the way."
Mr. Z was taken aback. "What does that have to do with anything?" he asked.
"Well," his boss said, "It means that we can't finish this project. You see, the chicken crossing the road is a crucial part of the plan. Without it, the whole thing falls apart."
Mr. Z shook his head in disbelief. This was the most absurd thing he had ever heard.
But he knew that in this world, anything was possible. So he set out to find the missing chicken, wandering through the blue grass and talking to the trees with faces.
Hours turned into days, and days turned into weeks. But finally, he found the chicken, wandering aimlessly through a field of purple flowers.
He picked up the chicken and carried it back to his boss. The project was saved, and Mr. Z had once again proven that in this absurd world, anything was possible.
And with a shrug of his shoulders and a smile on his face, Mr. Z went back to his daily routine, ready for whatever absurdity the world would throw his way next.
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7. |
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The Power of Positive Thinking: How to Harness the Mind-Body Connection
Have you ever heard the saying, "what you think, you become"? It's a powerful statement that highlights the connection between our thoughts and our reality.
Positive thinking can have a profound impact on our physical and mental health. Studies have shown that people who practice positive thinking have lower levels of stress, better immune systems, and are less likely to suffer from depression.
So how can you harness the power of positive thinking? It's all about changing your mindset. Start by focusing on the good things in your life, rather than dwelling on the negative. Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you're thankful for every day.
Visualize your goals and dreams, and believe that they will come to fruition. When you face challenges, instead of getting bogged down in negative thoughts, try to reframe the situation in a positive light. Ask yourself, "What can I learn from this experience?"
By practicing positive thinking, you can create a more fulfilling and joyful life. It takes practice and patience, but the rewards are well worth it. So start today, and watch as your mindset transforms your world.
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8. |
Qazzaz - Not Yet Certain
02:09
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The Mystical Experience: Exploring the Depths of Consciousness with Music
Chords have been used for centuries to induce altered states of consciousness and spiritual experiences. Today, they are gaining more attention for their potential to help us explore the depths of our consciousness and gain insights into our true nature.
Music such as rock and soul have been shown to increase neural connectivity and promote new neural pathways. This can lead to enhanced creativity, introspection, and a sense of connectedness with the world around us.
But it's important to approach these substances with caution and respect. Guitars can be powerful tools, but they should be used in a safe and controlled environment, with a trained guide or therapist.
The mystical experience that can be induced by music is not a panacea for all of life's problems, but it can be a profound and transformative experience for those who are ready for it. So, if you're looking to explore the depths of your consciousness, consider exploring the world of sound under the guidance of a trusted and experienced practitioner.
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9. |
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Dear Editor,
I was delighted to read the article "The Joy of Riffing" in your latest issue. As an avid riffer myself, I couldn't agree more with the author's sentiment that riffing is not just a form of exercise, but a way to connect with nature and find inner peace.
I would like to add that riffing can also be a great way to build community and make new friends. Many tunes and ideas offer group collaboration, where you can meet other like-minded individuals and share the experience of exploring song together.
I encourage everyone to give riffing a try, whether you're an experienced player or a beginner. Not only is it good for your physical and mental health, but it's a wonderful way to connect with the natural world and the people around you.
Thank you for featuring this important topic in your magazine.
Sincerely,
VeldPs765
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10. |
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The sound of the crashing waves against the shore always soothes my soul and reminds me of the vastness of the world.
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11. |
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Spoke of things that made my skin crawl, of violence and pain, and I knew that I had to get away. But when I tried to leave...
I managed to break free and ran as fast as I could, the sound of screams echoing in my ears. It was a night that would haunt me.
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13. |
Gin Wizard - Defeats
03:34
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(Scene: A mystical forest, with a large clock in the background. Father Time is seated on a rock, staring at the clock. Peter Pan enters, flying and giggling.)
Father Time: (noticing Peter) Ah, Peter Pan! What brings you to my forest?
Peter Pan: (grinning) Oh, you know. Just flying around, having fun.
Father Time: (chuckles) Yes, I remember those days. But time catches up with us all, my boy.
Peter Pan: (defiantly) Not me! I'm never going to grow up.
Father Time: (sighs) That's what they all say. But sooner or later, even you will have to face the inevitable.
Peter Pan: (confused) What do you mean?
Father Time: (gestures to the clock) The clock never stops ticking, Peter. You can't stay young forever.
Peter Pan: (sadly) But I don't want to grow up. I want to stay a kid forever.
Father Time: (sympathetically) I understand that. But there's a beauty in growing up, too. You learn and experience so much that you couldn't as a child.
Peter Pan: (tearfully) But what if I lose my sense of wonder and magic?
Father Time: (smiling) That's up to you, Peter. You can hold onto those things, no matter how old you get. But you also have to learn to face the world as it is, not as you want it to be.
Peter Pan: (thoughtfully) I see. So, what do I do now?
Father Time: (pats Peter on the shoulder) You keep living your life, Peter. Cherish your youth, but don't be afraid to grow up.
Peter Pan: (nodding) I think I understand now. Thank you, Father Time.
Father Time: (smiling) Anytime, my boy. And remember, time waits for no one.
Peter Pan: (grinning) Except for me! (flies off)
Father Time: (chuckles) Ah, the joys of youth. (looks at the clock) But even Peter Pan will have to grow up someday.
(End scene.)
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14. |
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The Hermosa Shark is a creature of legend, feared by many who live along the coast of California. It is said to be a massive great white shark, with razor-sharp teeth and a taste for human flesh. Many have claimed to have seen it, but few have survived to tell the tale.
The first documented sighting of the Hermosa Shark was in the late 1800s. A group of fishermen reported seeing a massive shark off the coast of Hermosa Beach. They estimated its length to be over 30 feet long, much larger than any shark they had ever seen before. The fishermen were so frightened that they refused to go back to sea for weeks after the encounter.
Since then, there have been numerous sightings of the Hermosa Shark. In the 1960s, a group of surfers claimed to have seen it while riding the waves at Hermosa Beach. They said the shark was so large that it could have swallowed a small boat whole.
In the 1990s, a group of divers claimed to have come face-to-face with the Hermosa Shark while exploring the kelp forests off the coast. They described the shark as being covered in scars and missing a large chunk of its dorsal fin. They believed that the shark had survived numerous attacks from boats and fishermen over the years.
Despite the numerous sightings, there has never been a confirmed attack by the Hermosa Shark. Some experts believe that the shark is simply a myth, created to scare people away from the beaches. Others believe that it is a real creature, but one that prefers to avoid humans.
Whatever the truth may be, the legend of the Hermosa Shark lives on. It serves as a reminder that the ocean is a powerful and dangerous place, and that we must always respect its inhabitants.
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15. |
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Meet Casper, the friendly ghost who has taken Hollywood by storm! This ethereal star has been making headlines for years, captivating audiences with his unique talents and charming personality.
Casper's rise to fame began in the early 1900s when he first appeared in ghost stories and folklore. Over the years, his reputation grew, and he soon became a beloved icon of the paranormal world.
In the 1990s, Casper was given the opportunity to make his big-screen debut in the hit movie "Casper." His performance was so well-received that he was quickly signed to a multi-picture deal with a major studio.
Since then, Casper has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, earning critical acclaim for his ability to blend comedy and horror in a way that only a ghost could. His signature catchphrase, "Boo!" has become a pop culture phenomenon, and fans young and old can't get enough of his spooky antics.
But Casper's talents don't stop there. He's also an accomplished musician, with several hit albums under his belt. His haunting melodies and chilling lyrics have earned him a legion of fans and critical acclaim from music critics.
Off-screen, Casper is a bit of a mystery. Despite his ghostly status, he's notoriously private and rarely gives interviews. He's been linked to several high-profile celebrities over the years, but his love life remains shrouded in secrecy.
Despite his supernatural status, Casper has become a beloved figure in Hollywood and beyond. He's a reminder that even in death, there's always room for fun and laughter. Whether he's scaring audiences or serenading them with his music, Casper is one ghost who's sure to stay in the public eye for years to come.
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16. |
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Self-improvement has become a buzzword in our society. We're constantly bombarded with messages that tell us we need to be better, to do more, to achieve more. But the reality of self-improvement is much more complex than these simplistic slogans suggest.
The first and perhaps most obvious hurdle to self-improvement is motivation. It's one thing to recognize that we need to change something about ourselves, but it's quite another to find the motivation to actually do it. After all, change is hard, and it requires effort and sacrifice. It's much easier to sit on the couch and watch TV than it is to go to the gym or read a self-help book.
Even if we do manage to find the motivation to improve ourselves, there are a myriad of other obstacles that can get in the way. For one thing, the process of self-improvement can be slow and frustrating. We may not see results right away, and we may become discouraged and give up. Additionally, life has a way of throwing curveballs at us, and our plans for self-improvement can be derailed by unforeseen circumstances.
But perhaps the biggest obstacle to self-improvement is our own inherent flaws and limitations. We all have weaknesses and blind spots that can make it difficult to change. It's hard to be objective about ourselves, and we may not even realize what we need to work on until someone else points it out to us. Furthermore, even if we do manage to identify our flaws, changing them can be incredibly difficult. We may be stuck in patterns of behavior that are deeply ingrained, and breaking out of these patterns can feel impossible.
Ultimately, the pursuit of self-improvement is a Sisyphean task. We're all flawed, imperfect beings, and the idea that we can somehow transform ourselves into perfect versions of ourselves is a pipe dream. Instead of striving for perfection, perhaps we should focus on acceptance and self-love. We should embrace our flaws and work to become the best versions of ourselves that we can be, rather than chasing some unattainable ideal. After all, the road to self-improvement may be long and difficult, but the journey is what really matters in the end.
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