The Paper Currency of 1896

Some brilliant artistry on these U.S. bills from 1896, dubbed the "Educational Series" by collectors. The symbolism draws heavily on myth. A wikipedia reference provided some brief background, but I found this article especially informative:

http://flyingmoose.org/truthfic/1896.htm

Currency design is an interest of mine. Thought I'd share.

Cheers,
Angus

J.R.R. Tolkien Sings

J.R.R. Tolkien was not only a fine reader of his own work, but he could carry a tune as well. The photo above is from an old LP. If you'd like an extensive collection of his reading his work aloud, look here. My favorite passage from the Audio Collection is his reading the "Riddles in the Dark" chapter from The Hobbit.

Meanwhile, here's a tune to whet your appetite.

Download "The Troll Song" here (MP3):
http://www.mediafire.com/?ub63xzhox3r7d81

Namárië,
Angus

Phish: Campus Club, Providence RI - 3/13/92

Here is Phish in their prime: after the sloppy early days, but still before the huge arena shows. This Providence show is just excellent. They're playing to a college crowd, showing plenty of humor and creativity throughout. The musicianship is rock solid.

Whoever compares Phish to the Grateful Dead is more than a little off the mark. These guys have always struck me as more of a combination of Zappa and The Talking Heads. At any rate, if you don't think you like them, try again. Listen. I have seen them in concert three times. I've always enjoyed their offbeat, musical virtuosity. A salute, then, to the band from Burlington, Vermont!

Download here (no password - both parts needed):
http://www.mediafire.com/?pidio57mkok95i5
http://www.mediafire.com/?8an6c603cxvjthi

Cheers,
Angus