Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?

xkcd.com has posted a cool graphic that serves as a very quick and easy way to determine the time in different parts of the world:

Friday 80s Flashback for February 21, 2014

[Happy Smiths' Debut] -- February 20, 1984, thirty years ago yesterday, The Smiths dropped their eponymous debut album. In a decade populated with jangly acts, The Smiths pretty much defined a new genre of mopey, introspective music with a debut album that ran counter to just about every 80s pop cliche: Their songs were about a very un-poppy topic (child abuse); the production was dour, and maybe even uninspired; the cover photo was a still from the 1968 Andy Warhol film, Flesh; their lead singer warbled like a man in terminal frustration, if not pain. And you know what? It is all wonderful. The Smiths debuted at number two on the UK Albums Chart, and "What Difference Does It Make?" peaked at #12 on the UK Singles Chart. The Guardian ranked The Smiths among their 100 Best Albums Ever list (1997), and Slant Magazine lists it among their Best Albums of the 1980s. Instead of three individual flashback tunes this week, I'm giving you three ways to enjoy this seminal album. You can check them out after the break.

Friday 80s Flashback for February 14, 2014

David, age 7, sledding on Jan. 25, 1985 (source: News-Tribune Attic)

[Frozen] -- In light of this week's snow storms, the Friday 80s Flashback features songs about snow and ice and, well, winter. (What? You expected Valentine's Day songs? You came to the wrong blogger). Right here in Bucks County, PA, we got around 13" of snow Wednesday into Thursday. However, we were spared a bit when the storm whipped around for a return engagement, and only netted an additional inch or so (along with a lovely sheet of ice). I hope all my fellow 80s-philes have fared well, and that you are cozied up and safe. What wintry tunes do I have for your snow day enjoyment? You can read and hear more after the break. 

Friday 80s Flashback for February 7, 2014

[Magic] -- As I am visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I figured magic -- or songs about magic -- was a good theme for this week's flashback. Now, as there was no Harry Potter back in the 80s, none of these songs are about him or his movie franchise. These songs either have magic in the title, or they refer to something as being magical. What made the sorcerous cut this week? You can read and hear more after the break.