I Can't Go...But You Should DEFINITELY GO!

 A dear friend is putting on his annual comedy film festival tonight in Layton, Utah. It's at the Davis Art's Counsel Kenley Amphitheater, 7:30pm start.

Unfortunately, I'm unable to attend due to my fall gig beginning tonight. Ever since I found out about this killer event, I've only been able to attend once...a salute to Steampunk and it was a blast--literally. If you know Craig Nybo, you know this show represents his creative mind come to life. Each year, a different theme, each year, a different show, each year, amazing results.

If you're interested, click HERE for more information. 

I've known Craig for about ten years. He constantly amazes me...the man has talent in buckets, and yet, he's the kind of person who will take time out of his insane schedule and ask you how you're doing, ask you about your family, or what you're working on. He's a genuine dude. 

Like I said, I don't know what you'll see tonight when you go to the Gangrene Comedy Film Festival, but I'm sure you've never seen anything quite like it. Come on--give it a shot. Go tonight, if not for yourself, but for me who am unable to attend.

You won't regret it.

Glad To Give Another Review...For Those Terrifying Lies!

The request was simple, and respectfully asked. If we liked the podcast, would be please go to a podcast site and give it a review. Of course. 

It's the least I could do.

I've blogged about my friend Craig's podcast several times in the past. If I blogged solely on talented people I know, I should have blogged many more times about Craig and his accomplishments. 

If you are a fan of podcast (as I am...), I am confident in saying the Terrifying Lies Podcast is not usual. The content of the stories and music follow a distinctive pattern...all things terrifying. I listen to a lot of podcast--listened to more of them before I got bored--and there's not many, if any, out there like Terrifying Lies. You get top-notch writing, creative, crisp, impactful. And after the story, sit back and enjoy original music, a different musical selection from the library of Craig's mind.

Come for the story--stay for the music.

If you've had the fortunate opportunity to experience Terrifying Lies, click: HERE and provide a review yourself. As a creator, reviews are both the lifeblood and adrenaline to the process. It's an unfair standard a times, but it's true. Reviews equals popularity, equals reach, at least to the algorithms. 

In my review I said Craig's podcast is not your parents's podcast, not your teacher's podcast, not your average podcast. To quote Han Solo, "It's true...all of it."

Give Thanks...For "Tesla V Cthulhu" And Friends With Talent

 

Tonight I finished listening to an original musical, Tesla V Cthulhu. It's been a long time since I've listened to an original musical. It left me in awe.

People throw the term "original" around liberally these days, or so it seems. But, when I say the musical is original, that's exactly what I mean. There's nothing out there like it.

I've blogged about Craig Nybo before. He's the writer and producer of this musical. Without knowing for sure, Craig was most likely more than just the writer and producer. He was in charge of all aspects of the project. He hired the talent, he recorded all the music and the dialogue, he juggled people's schedules, he put out fires, and he was the head cheerleader. If you know Craig, you can see his fingerprints on everything.

The musical is broken down into three podcasts currently playing on the Terrible Lies podcast. You can access and hear the episodes for yourself by clicking: HERE. The story is pretty much what you would expect from a title like, Tesla V Cthulhu. There's witches, fantastical creatures, curses, promises made and broken, and lightning...lot's of lightning. In addition to the spoken dialogue complete with sound effects, the music is what takes center stage. I listened to the earlier episodes the same way I listened to the last one...amazed at the talent of my friend. My mind reels thinking about trying to successfully write one song, let alone enough to complete a musical.

It's evident Craig's finished work will not appeal to everyone...the title of the musical says as much. I know many of my friends will enjoy it, especially because of the title and subject matter. I'm thankful there are people out there willing to put in the hard work to create art. I'm thankful for the art they create. I'm thankful I can call these amazing people friends. Well done, Craig and everyone who worked on the project. It's awesome.

Honored To Have My Story Re-Released Upon The World

One cool thing (among many cool things...) about becoming part of a writing community, is meeting some of the most amazing people that walk this earth. I'm not saying all authors reach this level of awesomeness, or that non-authors cannot achieve this as well, but it's just something I've noticed.

Case in point...

Craig Nybo.

If you're unfamiliar with Craig's work, you're missing out. He's an accomplished musician, writer, performer, businessman, event-putter-on-er, and all-around cool dude.

And, he's a podcaster.

Craig's podcast, Terrifying Lies, is in between seasons, so since that creative "Off" button does not exist inside Craig's brain, he has dug into his treasure trove of previous projects and released another podcast episode. This time...

I'm part of it!

A few years ago, Craig had this wild idea of having local authors read original works while his band created a totally original music composition backing up the author's words. For one of his sessions, he asked me to read a short story I wrote that was included in a horror anthology, Redneck Eldritch.

It's a story (except for me not knowing Louisiana does not have counties...) I'm proud of. It's called, Taxed. I want you to check out the podcast episode--you can access it by clicking: HERE. I'd also love for you to check out the book in which the story is included. You can access that by clicking: HERE.

Yes, it's not a Christmas story...more suited for Halloween. But, I think stories like this should be enjoyed any time of year. Thanks, Craig, for the re-telling! It's truly an honor.

You've Simply MUST Check Out Craig Nybo's Podcast..."Terrifying Lies"

 I know, I know...it seems everyone has a podcast nowadays. Heck, I even stuck my toe into the podcast waters many years ago. I stopped because it's a LOT of work and I didn't have the heart to continue.

I'm so glad Craig Nybo has decided to put in the work and start his own.

I've blogged about Craig several times. He's a good subject about which to blog because he is one of the most talented individuals I have ever met. Writer--awesome, musician--the dude can bring it, promoter--he can sell anything. But, as talented as he is, he's a better person.

Craig started a podcast called, Terrifying Lies. It blends his love of music, writing, and telling stories. For some reason, I put off subscribing to the podcast until this week. I've listened to several episodes so far and I am a fan. I should not have been surprised. Each episode (so far...) has included a short story and an original song, both song and story originated for the same person.

I should say that the stories have not been tame. Craig has a way of conjuring some creepy stuff--not "so scary you'll lose your lunch," creepy, but the kind of story that stays with you, makes you uncomfortable, makes you squirm. Be warned, dear reader. If you like original music and stories that are, in a word, terrifying, please check out Craig's latest joint. You can access his podcast site: HERE.

Yes, it seems everyone has a podcast nowadays. Not many appear born to the art form. Craig is one of them.

Remembering The Time I Was A Freestyle Gargoyle...Or, At Least, Read Like One

 I remember entering the building not knowing what to expect, but I suppose, that was the point.

The unknown.

A few years ago, I had the honor of participating in a Freestyle Gargoyles event. What is Freestyle Gargoyles, you ask? Good question. Basically, authors read their own original works while an incredibly talented group of musicians provides an impromptu soundtrack.

The organizer of this event is Craig Nybo, amazing author, musician, game creator, businessman, film festival emcee, and all-around good guy. He invited me to be one of the authors for that night's reading.

And I had a blast.

Craig posted on his Facebook page a link to my reading. If you're interested, the video lasts just over 13 minutes and you can access it by clicking: HERE.

If you do click on the video and watch it, I hope you enjoy it. It was fun to write and even funner to perform live. It's also an appropriate story for the Halloween season. Thanks, Craig for the opportunity, and thanks for the reminder of those good times.

Happy Birthday To Craig...A True Renaissance Man

It's strange how we meet people, how we get to know others, especially when we don't live in the same neighborhood or work together. Back when I began writing and attending conferences, a name kept coming up, and inevitably, people would say, "Yeah, you've got to meet Craig--he's amazing."

The more I heard about him, the more I wanted to meet him because the man was not one-dimensional--not that any of us are, but it's rare when you find a person who excels in so many different areas.

I first heard of Craig, the writer. That makes sense since I heard this from other writers at writing conventions. I've read several of his books--my favorite, Dead Girl. I definitely recommend it!

 I then heard about Craig, the musician. A lot of writers I know play instruments, but few are in rock bands that perform regularly. 

Then, I found out Craig was one of the main people involved in the Gangrene Film and Comedy Festival. So, he's also an event organizer. I'd heard of the Gangrene festivals over the years--they're held just up the road from me.

Craig works in advertising. My first degree was advertising/PR--another difficult thing to master. 

And finally, the man creates board games. He's got several brands out now and his company is always coming up with more. A few years ago, they opened up a game store in the basement of their building. My daughter worked there for a season to earn money for college.

Each one of these disciplines takes time, energy, creativity, and hard work. It's rarer still when someone can, not only do all these things, but do them all at an elevated level. Craig has and does.

Eventually we met at a writing conference. He and I attended the same high school and our siblings attended at the same time, though he and I didn't. Too bad--he'd have been a blast to hang out with. Over the years I've gotten to know Craig better. He's been nice enough to give me a ride home from Salt Lake Comic Con and FanX several times. He didn't have to, but he did. 

Today is Craig's birthday. I hope he had a good one.

Tomorrow, I could hear that the man was ditching it all and moving his family to Alaska to raise caribou. It wouldn't surprise me (okay, maybe it would a little...). But I know if he decided to do that, he'd be great at that, too.

Happy birthday, Craig--I'm honored to call you my friend.

The Next Gangrene Comedy Film Festival...Lawrence Welk Edition...Is Coming To Town This Fall!

One of the most unique annual events along the Wasatch Front is the Gangrene Comedy Film Festival and 2019 is no exception. The theme for this year is as follows:

Lawrence Welk: A Wunnerful Celebration of Music, Movies, and a-one, an-a-two.

How great is that?!

There are amazing things associated with the Gangrene Comedy Film Festival, incredible music, things you won't see anywhere else. And, word has it, they're looking for unusual acts. Earlier today a friend associated with the event let us know.

Here's part of a notice issued earlier today for acts:

Just putting this out there. We are doing Lawrence Welk for The Gangrene Comedy Film Festival this fall. We are looking for weird and exciting acts. If you know how to juggle squids, catch a cannonball with your gut, sing a duet with your pet lobster, play the recorder with the third arm growing out of your back ... well, you get the idea. 

That's right--if you've got a mind-blowing act, leave a comment below. Of course, as with all things in life, there's no guarantee, but maybe, just maybe all your performing dreams could come true!

Craig Nybo's "Dead Girl"...Worth Revisiting

I saw a post on social media today about Craig Nybo's Dead Girl. The cover was new so I thought maybe that's why I was seeing the notice. When you have many author friends, books seems to be launched every week. I knew this was not a new book, however. Craig and I have talked several times since he released Dead Girl a few years ago.

My first impression was, I love the new cover! The old cover was cool, too, but I think I like this one better. I clicked on the book's Amazon page and I noticed the cover wasn't the only thing different. The book is now being published by Immortal Works Press.

How cool is that?

Answer--pretty cool!

Over the years I've read many books by people I know. It makes the reading experience that much better. Some stories, I'm a little ashamed to say, have not stayed with me. I remember the general plot, but not much else. I can say that Dead Girl is a story I still recall. I remember the main character, the small town in which he investigates the death of a girl decades earlier, and I remember the tone--very Darren McGavin's Kolchak: The Night Stalker-esk. Craig said that's the feel he was going for and he hit it out of the park.

I blogged about Dead Girl on October 2, 2016. If you're interested, you can read my review: HERE. I still feel the same about the story. Craig self-published his story. I'm not knocking self-publishing, but I always wished this book got the exposure it deserves. I know Immortal Works isn't the largest publisher, but hopefully this will be a decision that helps both sides. Craig can get some exposure and Immortal Works gets another fantastic title to push.

If you want to order the book, click: HERE. From where I sit, I can see my copy of Dead Girl on my bookshelf. If I can get through all my reading obligations, I might just pull it off the shelf and read it again.

Rustmonster "Clockman: A Steampunk Rock Opera"...Awesome!

Last week I picked up a new CD. Not a lot of steampunk-themed albums out there.

Too bad.

Rustmonster's Clockman: A Steampunk Rock Opera does the musical genre proud.

A few years ago I attended the Gangrene Music Festival. That year's theme: Steampunk. Rustmonster recorded the songs and released the songs from that festival on CD.

If you're not familiar with Steampunk, it's a literary genre, a fashion movement, an art style, and there's even music. There's some discussion about what can be and what shouldn't be classified as "steampunk," but I can say with certainty, that if you want to know what Steampunk music sounds like, listen to this CD.

The first song, March of the Fools, reminded me of Pat Metheny Group's Forward March, the first song on their amazing First Circle album. But Rustmonster plays their song better. All the songs on the CD are raw, industrial, real. They're like a steak meal that's delicious, but a little tough. The meal, however, stays with you. Gives you courage and strength all day long.

In addition to some gritty songs, there's a bonus audiobook in three parts, a story called, Coke, Steel, and Oil. It's worth the price of admission right there.

I liked these songs. I'm partial to all things Steampunk so that helps. I also love the fact that the musicians are local, and they're talented. Do a "Rustmonster" search on iTunes or Google Play. It's there. I admit, this music may not be for everyone. You may not like it, but I guarantee, if you do like it, you'll really like it.

Feeling Quirky? There's A Game Store For That...

I saw the post on Facebook that my friend Craig Nybo was opening up a game store. If you know Craig, you also know that taking on yet another project is not surprising. He could say he's training to be an astronaut and you'd think, "Yeah, that makes sense."

I thought I should blog about this new venture so I began to write using pictures Craig posted on Facebook when I thought, "Why don't I just drive over there--it's only one town over."

That's what I did. I grabbed my youngest, we jumped in the car, and took the road I used to take to go to high school and stopped at Quirky Engine Entertainment Family Games. It's right next to the famous Kaysville Theater--you can't miss it!

And fortunately, Craig was there. I love chatting with Craig. Talk about talented! The guy writes novels--good novels. He creates amazing music, and puts on one heck of a show each year at his Gangrene Film Festival. He also makes games on the side. Quirky Engine is packed with games that the family will enjoy. There's little-known but great titles. There's puzzles, t-shirts, and books as well.

One of the coolest things is the Quirky Game Finder. This magical device will find the perfect game for you. Just enter your price range, age range, and number of people, click the button and...voila! It tells you what game you should get and that game is in the store!

If you live near Davis County and you're looking for a perfect Christmas or Hanukkah gift, check out Quirky Engine Entertainment Family Games. You can get more information: HERE (Facebook) and: HERE (company website). Put more FUN in you life--Play a Game!

Gangrene Comedy Film Festival 2017 Edition...I Hope You Went

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the return of the Gangrene Comedy Film Festival tonight. Had not absolutely everything fallen on these busy September weekends, I would have been there, possibly on the front row, definitely with camera in hand, and thoroughly enjoying the experience.

And since I couldn't make it, I somewhat know what I missed. 

I missed exceptional music performed by not only great musicians, but awesome people.

I missed out on good family entertainment, something you wouldn't be afraid to take your child, fiancee, or ecclesiastical leader to.

I missed out on seeing Craig Nybo rock and play the charming, yet gracious Gong Show host.

I missed surprises, those I thought might be coming and those I never saw coming.

And most of all, I missed out on fun, good ol' fashioned, stuff you seldom see nowadays, fun.

Last year the Gangrene Comedy Film Festival took a break. I hope that doesn't happen again. Craig--I'm sure you and your amazing team pulled of another fantastic show. I wish I could have been there to see it.

The Gong Show Is Coming...To Utah!

I talked to my friend Craig today. In addition to being an incredible author and musician, he's also a great event organizer. He is one of the guys behind the Gangrene Comedy Film Festival.

And this year, they're doing a Gong Show!

When I found out this year's theme, I was interested in what they were planning on doing as their tribute to the 1970s classic. It sounds epic! They're going to have as many of the iconic things that made the show what it was, including a live band backing up the "talent."

Speaking of talent, they are looking for acts. If you remember the show, they had everything from really good stuff, to total garbage. Of course, the good, the bad, and the ugly (sometimes, really ugly...) is why all those people--myself included--tuned in. That, and the fact that there really wasn't a lot to watch back in the day.

So, if you live in Utah, or the surrounding area, and are thinking to yourself, 'Hey, I've got something that would be perfect for a Gong Show-type show,' then let them know! Because on Friday, September 8, 2017 in Layton, Utah, the place with be rocking with acts you just can't see everywhere. That's pretty much a guarantee!

I'm A Freestyle Gargoyle...At Last!

I did it!

I've never done anything like it before, and tonight I read something I wrote in front of an audience. It's a first for me. It was a blast!

Freestyle Gargoyles is, I believe, the brainchild of the incredibly talented Craig Nybo. The advertiser, author, musician, and comedian created the event. Basically, authors read a short story (1500 - 2000 words...) while his band backs them up. They create a free-form soundtrack to the words being spoken--completely made-up on the fly. As they announced at the beginning, sometimes it's magic, sometimes not so much. But each creation is completely new, completely never before heard.

Here's some pictures of the event. It's hard to capture the feeling in the room with just pictures. I believe our stories are put on YouTube at sometime down the road. When they are, I'll blog about it.

Thanks Craig and the band for an amazing time!

I did it!

It was great!

Freestyle Gargoyles Halloween Special...And I'm Going!

In one week I will take part in a cultural event and I'm totally excited for it! It's called Freestyle Gargoyles Halloween Special. 

Since "Halloween Special" is in the title, that means that there have been previous "Freestyle Gargoyles" events in the past. Basically, Freestyle Gargoyles is where authors and musicians come together to create art. Authors read original works while a rockin' band backs them up with music. At least, that's what I've been told happens. I've not participated before.

When I found out a new event was coming up I was asked to share something I've written--so cool to be asked to read! I worried I wasn't able to attend because of my new p/t job that I picked up until the end of October. However, thanks to my employer allowing me the night off, I get to go!

Now, the story...

I need to come up with a story, between 1500 and 2000 words that fits well with the theme of: scary. I began a new story--I'm only a couple of hundred words in. I'll need to finish that story if I decide to use it. I've got until the 14th if that's what I choose to do. Or, I could use an existing story I've already written. I might end up doing that, even though I don't (or haven't...) written a lot of horror. I've got the weekend to decide and/or write a new story, and because Monday is a federal holiday (Thanks, Columbus!), I have all day Monday to finish up. I'd better have everything worked out by Monday or I'll be in trouble.

It's a real honor to be asked to help out. I have met some amazing people, such generous people and next week I get to hang with them and do something cool. I can't wait!

Craig Nybo's "Dead Girl"...A Book Review

Craig Nybo, author, musician, advertising genius, and all-around great guy released a book last month. It's called, Dead Girl and it's an almost perfect combination of mystery, horror, and paranormal writing as any I've ever read.

Having read two other Craig Nybo joints, Allied Zombies for Peace, and Small Town Monsters, I thought I knew what to expect when I began Dead Girl. It's not that I was wrong, necessarily, but what I got from this book was so much more.

Block Vang is a reporter, a reporter for two publications--one legitimate, and one not so much. Block gets a tip on a story in Northern Utah so he climbs inside his 1974 Grand Fury, fires up the engine, and drives right inside a decade's-old mystery. And because of Block's sassy mouth and a propensity to act before he fully thinks, finding the truth behind the mystery will cost him more than the gas that gets him from Salt Lake City to Bridgewater, Utah.

Block finds himself learning about a group of four teenagers from Bridgewater back in 1962. An accident where a girl died is the epicenter of strange activities beginning then and continuing until the present day. Each year, on the anniversary of the girl's death, teenagers gather at the scene of the grizzly accident. This year, however, the last of the four boys (they called themselves, "The Big Four") died leaving none of those involved in the crash alive. No one knows what will happen. Block has an idea, but even he couldn't predict just how bad it's going to be.

Will the girl who died, Sarah Chase, return? Will another accident happen just like it did all those years ago? Will Block survive long enough to write his story?

Nybo creates a wonderful voice that moves the story along, never allowing it to lull. The noir-type Block understands perhaps better than anyone in the town just how dangerous a spirit bent on revenge can be. Throw in witches, teenage love, spells, and a possessed 1962 Bubble Top Impala, and you've everything you need for a top-notch yarn worthy of a Carl Kolchak investigation.

I really enjoyed this book! If you'd like to order it, you can do so: HERE. Reading Dead Girl makes me realize that Nybo has upped his game. Then again, knowing him, I shouldn't have expected anything less.

FanX Panel On Being A Resilient Writer...Not For The Faint Of Heart

A couple of weeks ago those doing Herculean work preparing for this year's Salt Lake Comic Con FanX sent out the panel schedule. 

I LOVED what panels they asked me to do. They're fantastic, and I can't wait for next week. But as I checked the FanX iPhone app yesterday, I noticed a panel that I had previously missed.

And I LOVE this new one, too!

On Thursday, 2-3pm in room 255B I will be part of a group talking about being a resilient writer. The title for the panel is: Not for the Faint of Heart: Being a Resilient Writer. There will be seven of us explaining the things that have worked for us, and the things that don't. I hope, if you're attending the event and would like help in this area, that you schedule time to check us out.

Also, I get to be on a panel with the spectacularly awesome Craig Nybo and the incredibly talented Rebecca Moesta (actually, Craig is incredibly talented and Rebecca is spectacularly awesome, too...). The other panelists, Shannon Camp, James R. Tuck, Cindy Grigg, and Courtney Alameda, I hope to get to know as well. 

Are you a resilient writer? If not, spend an hour with us!