Now that listening to music is no longer “work”, it’s much more fun. I’ve gone back to my old ways – discovering new bands, seeing tiny shows, and I currently have a backlog of “I have to buy…” at least a few dozen long.

It’s been a while, but I’m restarting the Friday playlist, Maggie Mason lifelist style.

The Long Winters – Fire Island, AK

I first heard the Long Winters open for the Decemberists in the back of the Mercury Lounge in the middle of New York City. I have loved them ever since.

Diamond Rings – Wait & See

PS – you can see Diamond Rings @ Pop Montreal this year with Miracle Fortress

Catherine Feeny – Mr. Blue

Admiral Radley – Ghost of Syllables

I can’t tell you how in love with this band I am right now. We saw them a few weeks ago at the Belmont with 30 other people, which was sad (where was everyone?) but also, fantastic.

Florence & The Machine – Dog Days Are Over

I dare you to not be happy listening to this song.

Jonsi – “Animal Arithmetic”

I saw him perform this one and a half times in two different cities (that’s a LONG story), but every time it was fantastic.

School of Seven Bells – Windstorm

Happy listening, and I’ll be back with more next week!

big mak, originally uploaded by mintyfresh.

brett’s birthday dinner at Noa, with a great view onto the MixArts Fest on the main. This city never stops.

And yes – that *is* Big Mac-themed sushi (hence the title). It was delicious. As the staff said, “Not quite like the McDonald’s version”. And that’s a good thing.

pistoles, originally uploaded by mintyfresh.

delicious. from a forgotten stash of ‘things I bought at Grace In The Kitchen before we moved’ and then totally forgot about.