All New and Improved Video Friday!!!

After taking a break last week and mulling things over (and who doesn't like a good mulling), it's been decided that we're retooling Musical Friday and making it Video Friday instead. This doesn't mean we won't showcase musical videos we come across, but there are so many great non-musical videos out there we want to be able to include them too.


For starters, a much needed dose of Lego violence -





Special shout out to the geeks group on Facebook where this video was thrown up. Not to brag, but our group contains some of the best geeks around. They always share awesome stuff.


Next up is something that made me feel a little silly for including it, but this is something we've all done with our friends, and it's nice to see celebrities goofing off and being silly, especially when it's to The Backstreet Boys. So here's Selena Gomez and The Scene "covering" I Want It That Way.





Hmmm, now that I think of it, maybe I should have put the Lego violence after this one, for anyone who dislikes her. Oh well.


This is one of the cutest and most creative videos I've watched all week. Disney Pixar's Up if it had been made in the '60s.





I can definitely see this as a movie. Can't you?


Finally, a theme song for all the Nerdy Girls out there -





A special thanks to Jill Pantozzi, who introduced Amy Lee Radigan to the geeks group. This is Amy Lee's first youtube video, so I can't wait to see what else she has in store for us.


This concludes our first Video Friday. Let us know what you think and if you see any great videos you want us to share, send them to us at insertgeekhere@gmail.com.


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Musical Friday - Remembering January's Fallen Broadway Shows

Broadway suffered very heavy losses this month. Twelve shows have closed since January 2 with at least two more scheduled by the end of the month. I can't remember the last time so many shows closed in a month, so we're going to honor a few.


First up, Promises, Promises





Promises, Promises is based on the film, The Apartment, and has music by Burt Bacharach, lyrics by Hal David, and book by Neil Simon. You might recognize a few of the songs, especially if you're a Gleek. And how could you not like a show starring Jack MacFarland, Carl Bruner (Ghost) or Tarzan, depending on age, and Glinda/April Rhodes? 


Next, West Side Story

Written by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim (his Broadway debut), West Side Story is loosely based on Romeo and Juliet. One of the most interesting aspects of this revival is not only did Arthur Laurents direct it, but to help make it more authentic, the production team wove Spanish into the book and lyrics.

And finally, my personal favorite, because I just can't let this show go... In the Heights

This is the first soundtrack I had that made me cry before I saw the show. I've gotten a little teary during shows but that's while watching them. What's unique about In the Heights is just how much emotion comes across, both on the stage and in the soundtrack. Part of the reason for that is, instead of sticking the performers in the booths while recording, they were all put together where the orchestra normally plays, so the cast could play off each other, as you can see in the above.


So let's bid a fond farewell to In the Heights, Little Night Music, La Bete, Free Man of Color, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, Fela, Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, Brief Encounter, West Side, Elf: The Musical, Pee-Wee, and Promises Promises. Thank you to the casts and crews of the shows. You will be missed. Until we meet again...

Musical Friday - Make Mine Marvel

If you haven't heard, there have been some exciting developments at Marvel this week - Tom Brevoort was promoted to Senior Vice President of Publishing and Axel Alonso was named Editor-in-Chief. With Joe Quesada moving up to Chief Creative Officer, this is going to bring forth a new age of Marvel (cue dramatic music). Completing the trifecta of Marvel family news, Stan "The Man" Lee received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. To celebrate, we're dedicating this week to all things Marvel.


For Major Brevoort -





What I like about this video is that it manages to capture the intensity and scope of the story in just a few minutes while leaving you wanting more.


For Colonel Alonso -





 Who would have thought Wolverine's Theme to be so mellow and Jewel-like?


And for Generalissimo Lee - 





I think Spider-Man's animated evolution coupled with The Ramones is a wonderful way to illustrate the long journey Monsieur Lee has been on. He keeps getting bigger and better and rocks hard!


Congratulations everyone! You deserve it and we can't wait to see what you do next. 

Musical Friday - Geeky Holiday Fun!

It's holiday season and what better way to celebrate than with some good old-fashioned geeky fun.

Who better to start this off than the good Dr. himself, Dr. Who. Recorded for Dr. Who Confidential, Matt Smith, Karen Gillan and Arthur Darvil give what has got to be one of the most.... interesting interpretations of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" I've ever come across. Major points for going full out.





What can I say about this next clip? The truth of the matter is, even though there are several other religious holidays celebrated in December, Christmas is the one that has become so commercialized that some of the other religions tend to have their own ways of celebrating Christmas time too. Case in point... Christmas for the Jews.





And finally, what does a geek really want for the holidays? napalmnacey knows and shares this knowledge in her rendition of Santa Baby: Geek Version.





Now, because I know you've all been good geek boys and geek girls, I'm adding a special bonus. Here with their retelling of "'Twas the Night Before Christmas," I give you The Guild.





Remember, it doesn't matter what you celebrate (as long as there are no sacrificial, bloody offerings involved - that's a little creepy) as long as you are happy, safe, having fun, and surrounded by the ones you care about. Happy Holidays from IGH team! 

Musical Friday - Cyber Friday, Tron-day

Musical Friday again! Tron is out TODAY! In case you weren't sure what Tron is all about (really?!), we've got the most efficient way to explain: a Tobuscus Literal Trailer!

Literal Tron Trailer!

Yay!



Tron has been a nerd classic for over 20 years. This homage comes from The Key of Awesome and is all about the sweet escape that our fantasy worlds offer, and also naked ladies...



We'll end the fun with the video for Daft Punk's video "Derezzed", from the official Tron Legacy Soundtrack. Enjoy and have a great weekend!

Daft Punk - New Music - More Music Videos

Musical Friday - VideoSongs, An Educational Tour Through Music History

Hey Getsuyobi!  Just what is this crazy VideoSong thing I keep hearing about?

I'm glad you asked, Timmy.  A VideoSong is a form of music video that is posted on the "Inter-Web."  Artist Jack Conte is the one who pioneered the novel concept of actually singing and playing instruments in order to make music, something that has not been actively practiced in America since the late 60's.

Wowee!  That's educational!  So, what makes a VideoSong different from any other music video?

 Jack Conte defines a VideoSong by two main principles:

1. What you see is what you hear. (No lip-syncing for instruments or voice)
2. If you hear it, at some point you see it. (No hidden sounds)

So, throughout the video you'll see each instrument as it's contributing.  The end result is an exciting look at how real music is made.  Let's take a look at a VideoSong, so you can get a better idea.

Gee wiz.  This sure is different from all the music videos I see on TV.  I didn't see a single whore the whole video.  Are you allowed to make music videos without whores?

Well Timmy, I can't speak for these people personally; however, they certainly don't appear to be whores.  It's a common misconception by today's youth that all musicians either are themselves, or constantly associate with "ladies of questionable upbringing."  Historians have proven that this trend first began in prehistoric times with a musical group that called themselves Sonny & Cher.  Little is known about these prehistoric musicians, but our fossil-oligists believe that the one known as Cher lived to be thousands of years old before fading away into obscurity.

History is confusing.  My whole world is turning upside down.

Let's watch another!

So, people actually used to play music with instruments?  I thought music just came out of fast cars and explosions, then sexy people would sing around them.

Wow Timmy.  You really are a brainwashed little guy, aren't you.  No more MTV for you... in fact, no more TV altogether.

What's a TV?  I steal all of my entertainment from the web.

What the hell kind of child are you?!  Watch another video while I call your parents...

Okay, Timmy. I spoke with your Mother and she assured me that you are just an average America child.  I'm going to end our educational session for today and go drink.

Red Bull?

You're only eight years old!!!

I cut it with milk.

::facepalm::  I weep for the future.

Musical Friday: Black Friday Exhaustion Edition

While Thanksgiving is a national holiday, it really is only the pre-event to the true American holiday, Black Friday. We as a country glorify and/or despise this day in all its greatness. Join me as we celebrate it through song.

This is the best Black Friday video I could find. Jake Broder and John Keefe really bring the true meaning of the holiday into their rap.

2bitcomic.com put this Black Friday Customer Experience to life in this video. This rap battle is played by Brian King and an irate customer played by Jason Monroe.




Doesn't this get you into the shopping spirit? So what are you still doing here?! Go Shopping!!

Musical Friday - Potter-Mania!!!

The Deathly Hallows Part 1 is out today! Yay! So naturally, I had to find the oddest yet most popular Harry Potter videos floating around.

Harry Potter (Before We Say Goodbye)



Parodying Train's "Hey Soul Sister," JamesAtWar has a great voice, and knows how to tug at one's heartstrings. The lyrics are great and the kids are just too darn cute! It's a really sweet ode to Harry Potter.

Harry Potter in the Hood w/Kamen Edwards



I'll be honest, I have no idea what to say about this one. I couldn't stop laughing, and I noticed Kamen seems to be wearing a lot of makeup. Harry gettin' gangsta' - 'Nuff said.

The Harry Potter Rap



An oldie but a messed up goodie. Ever notice how a lot of the parodies talk about Harry hooking up with ALL the ladies? Except for our final video...

Harry Potter Rap! - Flo Rida/Guetta Parody



I have to thank The Girly Nerds for introducing me to this. I think this might be my favorite of the bunch. I love this song and it's just so much fun!

And there you have it! Who else is excited about The Deathly Hallows? Who's seeing it this weekend? You know even Dementors couldn't keep the IGH team from seeing it. Let's us know what you think!

Musical Friday - Literal Version

Good afternoon gentle readers! (Picture me sitting in an armchair wearing a smoking jacket) Today we tackle the literal video. Many recording artists put out videos that help enhance the theme of their songs, while others take a more creative approach, and give us more... unique, conceptual videos. Some of these videos are hard to understand or just make no sense. This is what happens when fans get tired of the confusion and take matters into their own hands.

Take On Me - A-Ha

Said to be the literal video that ignited the genre, created by DustoMcNeato, who has been making literal videos since 2008. He has some of the most entertaining videos out there. You can check them out here.

Love is a Battlefield - Pat Benatar

Dascottjr is another master of literal videos. Always entertaining and this one features on of the best literal choreographed dance scenes. Smiles are guaranteed!

Total Eclipse of the Heart - Bonnie Tyler

By far, the best literal video I've come across. This is my all-time favorite. It's so good it's a 2010 Webby Award Honoree, TIME's #6 Top Viral Video of 2009, and TIME's #18 Top YouTube Video!!! 

Not all literal videos are created from 80's songs; they just seem like the most fun. Seriously, what was going on in the 80's? Those videos are crazy! We'll probably revisit this theme with vids from the 90's, another decade filled with awesome "wtf?" videos. Until then, I leave you with one of the cutest, semi-literal videos I found.

Laundry Day - Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog

Musical Friday - The Gaga Covers

Lady Gaga is one of the most talked about musicians these days. Whether it's about her behavior, political views, music, or her outrageous fashion sense, one can't deny she's a tour de force. How long she'll last is up for debate but while she's around, everyone from celebrities to the average Joe Shmoe has been having fun with her music. With so much to choose from, I decided this Friday will go to the everyday folk out there (though I might have to do one for the celebrities. Some of them are just too funny not to include.) So without further ado, I present...... Gaga!

Lady Gaga Acapella Medley Multitrack (Just Dance, Poker Face, Chillin, Paparazzi)

As the only female of the post, I chose Naya Marie because, of the many different covers I viewed, she was unique. She obviously very talented but by creating the medley, adding the beatbox, and performing all the parts herself, she gave the songs a twist that really energizes them.

Paparazzi - Metal Guitar Cover (HQ)

I love when songs are taken out of their designated genre and turned into something new. I particularly love turning pop songs into something edgier and harder. This version helps demonstrate how versatile Lady Gaga's songs are. If you click on the link in the video and watch the video with the vocal track, you'll see how great it sounds. Man, I wish I could play guitar like this guy....ah, just me on a stage, playing like a rock star...sigh...oh, sorry. Got caught up in the moment. On to the next...

 On The Rocks - Bad Romance

Part of me wishes these guys had worn outfits to go with the song but the rest of me knows the everyday clothes make this even funnier. On the Rocks is the University of Oregon's premiere all-male a capella ensemble. They have a new album out, which you can learn more about here.

Telephone - The Afghanistan Re-Make

I crack up every time I see this. Who thinks these guys might have had a little bit too much to drink one night and decided to put on a show? These guys are fighting overseas in dangerous situations and if this is what they need to do to blow off a little steam, then please, please, PLEASE keep doing this! I'd be laughing my ass off if any group of guys got together and did this, but these are soldiers and that gives it extra oomph. They are so awesome. I hope they can eventually make another re-make but as malibumelcher, the guy who filmed this, said it's hard to get them all together because they're constantly on missions. Here's hoping they are currently all safe and coming home soon.

Part of what makes Lady Gaga so great is the fun she inspires people to have. It's high energy, twisted, inventive, and, did I mention... fun? It gets people out of their shells because it's so over the top. It's ridiculous! I guarantee you there is a Lady Gaga cover for everyone. So pull up at seat, enjoy the videos, and if you have a favorite Gaga cover, let us know so we can put it in next time until then, a fond farewell!

Musical Friday - Halloween Time

It's Halloween and we've got some awesome new videos for this Friday. The best part of Halloween is all of the great horror & sci-fi films all over TV and theaters. Since I was a child, one of my all-time favorites has been the original Ghostbusters. Anyone who remembers the original 1982 movie can't help but think of the classic theme song by Pay Parker Jr. Our first video is one of the greatest mash-ups I've ever seen. Featuring the classic GB theme and rock legends AC/DC. I defy you not to crank this up and totally rock out!



Our next video is actually a rare bonus feature from Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within. The film was a masterpiece of CGI when it was first released in 2001 and for its DVD release the animators went back and recreated a few scenes with outtakes for a blooper reel. This short dance segment was also created as an Easter Egg for the bonus content section. It wouldn't be Halloween without Thriller!



Lastly, not so much a music video but a movie trailer featuring one of the creepiest songs of all time. This trailer shows another classic film in a whole new light (darkness?) Most people wouldn't argue that Gene Wilder's version of Willy Wonka became the cult phenomenon it is thanks to the underlying darkness and sadness he gave the whimsical character. Please enjoy the horror movie version of the trailer featuring the infamous "Wondrous Boat Ride Song"



Hope you've enjoyed the spooky music. Let us know what your favorite Halloween songs are by leaving a comment or shouting out to us on twitter @IGHInsider. Have a fun and safe weekend!

Musical Friday - Cover Songs!

Welcome & Bienvenido to our latest rendition of Musical Friday!  My name is @Getsuyobi and I'll be rounding out the [insertgeekhere] crew as resident web-person/geek/gamer.  For my first post I'm sharing with you my strange fascination with stolen music.  I'm not talking about piracy, but the art of the cover song.

Cover songs aren't actually theft of material (usually), but meant to pay homage to the original artist and add a new dimension to a song.  Some of the best cover songs are the ones that take a song completely out of its original genre and twist it into a new composition altogether.  My first pick for this Friday is a cover of Michael Jackson's "Beat It" by the awe-inspiring duo of Jack Conte & Nataly Dawn, otherwise known throughout the interweb as Pomplamoose!



Awesome, right?  Talk about taking a song in a new direction.  Pomplamoose actually released a whole cover album on iTunes that includes some more amazing covers, like Beyonce's "Single Ladies" & Lady Gaga's "Telephone".  I'm a little ashamed to say I know all the words to those songs now as a result of their covers.  Pomplamoose is one of my favorite indy/internet bands.  Their videos are always entertaining and they have so much damned talent!  I could gush over Pomplamoose for an entire post (idea!), but on the the next song...

The next cover comes from the R&B group Ahmir.  They're doing a mashup cover of Owl City's "Fireflies" & "Vanilla Twilight".  Another great example of a group making you hear familiar lyrics in a whole new context.  Enjoy the soulful harmonies (and cheesy choreography) of Ahmir.



... get it?  He fell asleep?!  So funny!  Anyway, Ahmir was actually invited to an Owl City show at the House of Blues last April to perform on stage with the band!  The video of the performance is available on their YouTube channel.  It's pretty funny to hear them side by side with the original artist because they actually blow him out of the water!

Okay, it's Friday, let's all rock out with our last cover from Italy's own Vanilla Sky.  They're covering what will forever be "the song of that Eliza Dushku danced to in that awesomely tiny dress on episode 1 of Dollhouse" or you could shorten it to Lady Gaga's  "Just Dance"  This brings me back to when I was first obsessed with cover songs.  It was the time of napster and CD burning, and every cover on the internet was some punk band covering pop hits.  Those were the days.



... ahh Echo...!  Sorry, I got a little lost there... Well I hope you enjoyed my Cover Song Musical Friday.  Please check out all of the bands mentioned on YouTube & MySpace, while all of their careers are taking off, they can use all the support we can give!  Also don't forget to give us a follow on Twitter (@IGHinsider) for more updates and sweet tunes every Friday.

Peace!

Musical Friday! (Tolkien Version)

In honor of Tolkien Week, we bring you a few of the most interesting videos out there celebrating Hobbit-y goodness. Enjoy!

The Harper & The Minstrel ~ with guests Wyldefyre & The Limeybirds - The Hobbit Drinking Song

This was performed at a special event at the Florida Renaissance Festival, Feb 22, 2009, Deerfield Beach, Florida. The interpretive dancing is what really sells this.

Flight of the Concords - Frodo, Don't Wear The Ring (Season 1, ep. 11) The guys get roped into making a LOTR tribute video. This is just hilarious.

Leonard Nimoy's Ballad of Bilbo Baggins - No musical Tolkien tribute would be complete without this well-known gem of WTF-ery? Seriously? What was he thinking? Better yet, what was he on?

J.R.R. Tolkien Recites the Ring Verse - It seemed only appropriate to conclude this, not with a song but with a reading from the man himself.

*Due to a technical glitch, this posted earlier than planned, but hey, it's Friday somewhere!