I The Behrend Beacon Colbert wows audiences with new book By Sam Levine stall lath., Nils 122 edu I Am America (And So Can You!) is a celebration of what makes America the greatest country in the world, dictated by the nation's fore most expert of patriotism, Mr. Stephen T. Colbert. The book, which con tains the truest of all truths, is the perfect companion serving as a guide for many important decisions such as deciding whether to vote republican or not to vote at all. Please keep in mind however that this hook is not a replacement for your holy scriptures. With a book that has instruc tions on how to read it and how to close it when you're finished, you know it's going to be good. In the tradition of The Daily Show's book, America (The Book), Colbert produces something entertaining and at the same time similar to Jon Stewart's own book: presenting something that is basically their show in book form. Both "The Daily Show" and "The Colbert Report" attract many interested in politics and world events, obviously due that the two entities are satire of the news media. Along with Colbert, I Am America (And So Can you!) is co-written by most of the writers of "The Colbert Report". Colbert's new book feels like a 227 page inside joke. On one hand, it is a very good thing for dedicated viewers of the show who will immedi ately recognize tie-ins, for example there are printed red notes on the sides of both pages echoing "The Report — s popular "The Word" segment. Colbert's satirical wit is present on every page as he imparts his knowl edge and wacky sense of humor in every sentence. It's a very funny read "Top Five Rock Nerds" By Andy McLachlan 5. Luke Reynolds 4. Pete Townshend (The Who) 3. Mi*ahStipe gZEM) ..)11)1Y1 :; *1 ; itWi * 2. Ben Folds 1. Rivers Cuomo (Weezer) "Top Five Rock n' Roll Families" By Chris LaFuria 5. Oasis (Noel & Liam Gallagher) 4. Wainwrights (Loudon & Rufus) 3. Allmans (Duane and Greg) • 2. Jackson 5 (Michael, Jennahie, Tito, Marlon, Jackie) 1. Dylans (Bob & Jakob) Soulja Boy Tell'em - "Crank That" Chris Brown Feat. T-Pain - Timbaland Feat. Oneßepublic - "Apologize" Alicia Keys - Colbie Caillat - rir Colbert's satirical wit is present on every page. "No One" "Bubbly" and hard to put down, many will probably find themselves reading the entire book in one sitting. However this book would not be recommend ed for those who are not very familiar with Colbert's character; the book is often times indulged in the humor only Colbert's showmanship could provide, and sometimes it's inaccessible. To the casual viewer the jokes may seem unintelligent and pointless. However, once one is fluent with Colbert's character's persona the book will seem flawless and hilarious. Although it is not new material, one of the most important parts of the book is the text of Stephen's speech at the White House's Correspondents' Dinner, which was an infamous example of how far the comedian was willing to go, by openly criticizing the commander in chief right in front of him, as Colbert spoke in his now icon ic 1 1 ultra conservative character. The speech itself is a dazzling criticism of the Bush administration providing jokes and not pulling any punches. "Like Rocky," Colbert comments about President Bush, "he gets back up, and in the end he actually, he loses thein first movie." The shots Stephen takes at Bush are stinging and profound; one wonders how he made it out alive. Like Stewart and "The Daily Show", Stephen Colbert has successfully created a cultural icon in his satire that is on par with or exceeds anything Stewart has done in the past. This book (and his announced Presidential run) is proof that he is going to be around to stay for a long time. This book is an absolute recommendation for people who are already fans of "The Colbert Report". Others would do themselves a favor and watch at least a few episodes before reading. This book is the recipient of the "Stephen T. Colbert Award for Literary Excellence.' Billboard Top Ten "Kiss Kiss" Jimmy Eat World releases 6th album By Ryan P. Gallagher student life editor rpgsoo4 p,u edu Fourteen years ago, four men from Phoenix, AZ decided to contribute to the growing alt rock genre with a sound no one had ever heard. Three days ago, they rocked 11 inure songs to their name, holding up their rep utation as being one of the most influential bands of the 90s. The impressing difference between Jimmy and essentially every other group from their era, is the fact that they have never released an album that doesn't prove they arc one of modern alt- rock's best bands to ever roll over rock and give us something no other band is musically and emotionally capable of. From their early albums, to the more well-known records, beginning with the first track, it's simply impossible to turn your ears off to these magician-like musicians. Other groups from this genre (i.e. Saves the Day, Get up Kids, etc.) failed at sticking to their origins and took their music to another level that ultimately changed their sound. The shocking story of Jimmy Eat World rising to fame is the most uncommon tale in the world of music. The fact that Jimmy didn't receive immense commercial attention until their self-titled album in 2001, wows audiences and critics alike, considering the band had three previous LPs. If any of these former albums are ever re-mastered, re-released, and marketed correctly, they could just as easily be as big as Futures was. The problem is that half of Jimmy's listeners are only aware of the band's work after the turn of the century. With every release, the band reveals a sound that is slightly "poppier" than the last one. This was evident on every album since Clarity. However, with their latest Chase this Light, what plays from the speakers is power-pop accompanied by some dying remnants of a young, classic 90s band, with a side of pure rocking out. Complimented with more electronics than the band has ever made use of in the past, this album stands out as a slightly over-produced, pop-rock version of Futures. The songs are relatively simple, but are enhanced with the alcohol-inspired mastermind of Jim Adkins. If one thing has remained constant in the band, it's the way Adkins screams his words with a respectively emo tional voice that blows away any modern singer. His vocals are extremely comparable to Dashboard Confessional's Chris Carrabba, as they both have the ability to wail until their voices crack and make it sound good, but at the same time, can define the art of delicately singing a slow ballad unlike any other modern day musician. Nonetheless, the tracks on this record are a terrific example of what the pop-rock scene has been deprived of in recent years. The first track, "Big Casino", is available for free listening on their web page, jimmyeatworld.com, so make sure you at least take a quick listen before buying the album. The song is easily the catchiest song on the album, but the profound meaning of it seems to go overlooked by many listeners due to the addictive vibe the music instrumentally gives off. Lyrically, this is one of the best tracks on the album, however, much contro versy lies in this statement considering Adkins writes brilliant poetry. The rest of the album continues to soothe the ears to satisfaction, but satisfaction is an understatement towards the band's early work. With time, the tracks seem like they will grow on die-hard listeners, and it could definitely be a popular album among the pop culture audiences, but ultimately will never live up to the group's initial sound. Overall, I give Chase this Light a B+, but don't let the B grade fool you because this is easily the best pop rock album of the year. Just don't expect anything as classic as Clarity. 6. Kanye West - "Stronger" 7. Baby Bash Feat. T-Pain - 8. Kanye West Feat. T-Pain - 9. Rihanna Feat. Ne-Yo - 10.Timbaland Feat. Ken Hilson - "The Wa "nrn i d jii Stephen Colbert is becoming a bigger pop culture icon daily I Are" Friday, October 26 , 2007 "Cyclone" "Good Life" "Hate That I Love You"
Significant historical Pennsylvania newspapers