Last Night, Someone From My Past Came Back

(Yes, this photo is of Sam and Henry - together they are Zero 7. They have nothing to do with this post. I just like this photo, if that's okay with you.)

Weeks ago, I received a letter from someone I went to elementary school with. We had a big crush on each other back then. I think he liked that I was the only girl on the boy's softball team. And I remember liking that he'd carry my Strawberry Shortcake lunchbox around for me.

We finally met up last night. Mr. Milosevic, as I referred to him all night, is a strapping grown man now. We talked so much, but every now and then he'd take a step back and say, "I can't believe you're here. Right here, right now." I didn't say it but I thought the same thing. It was electric. We went to see Art Brut (again), stayed up all night and when I finally fell asleep at 6 a.m., I had two thoughts ... (1) it's strange how life brings certain things full circle while putting an absolute end to other things... and (2) people don't really change: If you're a jerk, you don't really ever stop being a jerk. You just change who you're a jerk to. Likewise, if you're a kind and caring person, that never changes. The only thing that does is who you direct that kindness and caring towards.

And at the end of the night, he carried my bag for me. I no longer carry a Strawberry Shortcake lunchbox around with me but if you really think about it, it's all the same.

***

Two amazing songs: one old, one new one... don't miss.

Eels - "Fresh Feeling"
From 2002 Souljacker album, this song is one of my favorite Eels songs. Mark Oliver Everett, who just goes by "E," is the band's frontman/singer/songwriter. And while he's been incredibly prolific -- from "Novocaine For The Soul" to one of my other favorites, "Old Shit/New Shit" -- his songwriting skills have exponentially become tighter, better-arranged and orchestrated. It's a song about the truly great and pure moment of being happy or in love... right here, right now, right at this moment. Buy here. (For M.)


Four Tet feat. Percee P - "A Joy (Part 2)" [excerpt]
For more, go here. (For James.)


UPDATE: I've received a hell of a lot of emails asking if I could post the Part One version of "A Joy" by Four Tet feat Percee P. Here you are. The 12-inch single includes the Koushik remix.


Thanks
Michael Williams