James Blake: Overgrown. Review Sketch

year: 2013

tones of: luther vandross (vocals), four tet (on voyeur), james blake (really failing when it comes to identifying similar artists!)

genre samples: house, techno, jazz, r&b, gospel, soul

music: complex, moody, soft, smooth, beautiful, slow, low, rumbling, stunning, somber, atmospheric

vocals: haunting, light, free, soft, vulnerable, strained, full, solid

favs: overgrown, life round here, take a fall for me, retrograde, digital lion (theme of this album - good, but gets better over time), to the last

note: while jb expands lyrically, vocally, and sonically, this doesn't have the brilliant contrast and tension of:
http://simmserely.blogspot.com/2012/10/james-blake-james-blake-review-sketch.html

score: 8/10 (a slow burner. be in the mood.)

DJ Koze: Amygdala. Review Sketch

year: 2013

tones of: moby, four tet, scissor sisters, shlohmo

genre samples: house, brass, dance, theatre, r&b, dubstep

music: warm, playful, diverse, wondrous, colorful, fun, interesting, exciting, rich, surprising, energetic, complex, beautiful, weird, experimental, full, sonorous, cool, creative

instruments: recorders, seagulls, chimes, springs, vocals (by: caribou, matthew dear, ada, hildegard knef, marvin gaye), steel drums, sticks, claps, synthesizers, and some i can't even guess at!

favs: track id anyone?, royal asscher cut, magical boy, homesick, marilyn whirlwind, la duquesa, ich schreib' dir ein buch 2013, don't lose my mind, amygdala

score: 9/10

On Intelligence: Book Review

Author: Jeff Hawkins (with Sandra Blakeslee)

Length: 235 pages (plus an 8 page appendix of predictions)

What is It: A comprehensive theory on the inner workings of the brain (memory, intelligence and creativity), including its relevance to building intelligent machines. Hawkins starts with a brief history of artificial intelligence and neural networks, but openly challenges them as design foundations. He then presents his memory-prediction theory as a more comprehensive and accurate representation. He ends On Intelligence with a sketch of the future based on his model and a series of testable predictions.

What's Said: Theories of the brain should be based on i) elapsed time, ii) feedback loops and iii) complete architecture. The brain is not a computer; it is a memory system. It distills incoming sequences of patterns (eg: letters of a word in a speech) into invariant forms [snapshots of constantly changing details], passes this delayed pattern up its hierarchical structure (eg: from letters to words in this analogy), repeats that process at each of its six levels (eg: words to phrases, phrases to sentences...), and links all those sequences together through auto association for retrieval later (eg: remembering that speech by recalling just a word/phrase/sentence in it). Detailed predictions using this system are the essence of intelligence. The brain predicts by combining its knowledge of invariant forms from higher brain levels with current details from the senses, and lower levels. This algorithm is the main function of the brain and is exactly the same everywhere (i.e. the primary senses are fundamentally no different from each other). Correct predictions result in understanding, incorrect predictions result in confusion.

What's True: There are 10 times as many feedback as input connections in the brain. Human intellectual superiority is explained by size of the neocortex and its hierarchical levels of sophistication (ability to handle more abstraction, and longer temporal patterns than animals). The Turing Test is misguided because intelligence cannot be accurately measured by external behavior (computational output), it is an inner brain function (understanding does not require action). The memory-prediction framework distinctly separates intelligence from human form and emotions (which negates "rise of the machines" scenarios). Intelligence systems are customized machines that can excel where human intelligence is disinterested or human senses are inadequate. Hawkins is clear and transparent in OI. He not only lays out his theory, he addresses rebuttals, and willingly points out potential flaws in the model. Even if his theory is correct however, capacity (the brain has an estimated 8 trillion bytes of memory) and connectivity (one brain cell connects to an estimated 10 thousand other brain cells) will still be challenges. 

So What: Hawkins' theory has significant implications for the development of intelligent machines. It means that design thinking centered on faster computing, larger memory, and behavior driven output is absolutely misdirected. It means newer innovations like big data (inputs and discovery) and machine learning (pattern recognition and prediction) should be not be explored separately; they should be studied as components of a single intelligent system. For individuals, On Intelligence provides new insights on the way humans think, why we think like we do, and how thought is connected to itself and behavior.

Final Word: Very Enlightening Read

Todd Terje: It's The Arps EP. Review Sketch

year: 2012

tones of: lcd soundsystem, lindstrom

genre samples: electro-pop, disco, sound-synth, house

music: robotic, shimmering, upbeat, danceable, trance-like, happy, fluttering, racing, layered, fun, spacey

favs: inspector norse, swing star pt1, swing star pt2, swing star pt1 + pt2

note: this entire album was made with an ARP 2600 synthesizer! cool.

score: 8.5/10

Eat, Drink, and Be Healthy: Book Review

Author: Walter Willett (with Patrick Skerrett and co-developed with the Harvard School of Public Health)

Length: 250 pages (plus a 68 pages of recipes)

What is It: A practical guide through the facts and statistics on nutrition and their link to health and disease (heart attack, diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer). EDBH educates by conveniently repeating important details and definitions, which helps deprogram common misconceptions and reinforce the absorption of new health information. The book covers these topics: weight control, diets, fats, carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, calcium, protein, fruits, vegetables and multivitamins.

What's Said: 
WEIGHT
Genes play a role, but only partly. Weight change equals calories in minus calories out. A calorie is a calorie, no matter how you get it. There is a positive correlation between BMI and the death rate. When fad diets "work" it is mainly because they make you focus on what and how much you eat. Weight gain is not inevitable, many cultures maintain their adulthood weight. Exercise! Activity is most beneficial when it speeds up your heart rate and breathing. 
FOOD
Not all fat is bad for you (eg: most liquid oils, omega fats), but trans fat absolutely is, and saturated fat should be limited. Eating good fat (mono- and poly- unsaturated fats) improves your cholesterol (by lowering LDL). Not all simple or complex carbohydrates are bad (eg: intact whole wheat grains). However, highly refined carbohydrates (white: flour, rice) create volatile glucose-insulin levels that can generate a feeling of unsatisfied hunger (just like sugar). You need calcium, not milk and dairy products. Vitamin D and K are just as important to building healthy bones. Vegetable protein is better in terms of saturated fat and fiber, though meat protein is more complete (fix by mixing beans, nuts, grains). Organic fruits and vegetables are not materially better than regular or frozen ones (they taste and are better for the environment though). Eat fruits and vegetables in a variety of colors for optimal benefit. Fruits and vegetables are better fresh than cooked (destroys nutrients - except in tomatoes). 
DRINKS
Coffee in moderation is good for you (antidepressant, lowers risk of kidney/gall- stones, diabetes). Alcohol is good in moderation (increases HDL, reduces clotting). Soda is an awful beverage with no nutritionally redeeming value. Drink enough fluids so that your urine is consistently clear or pale yellow. 
LABELS
Check nutritional tables against the list of ingredients provided. Ingredients are listed in order of descending weight/importance. Wheat flour is not the same as whole-wheat flour (much better). Trans fat is also known as vegetable shortening and partially (or just) hydrogenated oil. Check total fat against sum of listed fats (difference is trans fat).
OTHER
Store brand, RDA-level, USP approved multivitamins are perfectly fine.

What's True: Nutrition is a complex, evolving science; do not be surprised by the lack of clear, definite answers. The following have solid foundations, however: Maintaining a healthy weight is the most important thing you can do for your health. Exercise and activeness are the best things that you can do for weight control. Based on nutritional factors, most diets do not actually work. The next best health move is to eat better fats and carbohydrates. Substituting your diet with more fruits and vegetables has tremendous health benefits. Taking a multivitamin in addition to the above is a good back up option. 

So What: Food companies have built billion dollar businesses exploiting our tastes/habits (ex: got milk ads, sugar additions) and influencing agricultural policies (ex: the USDA food pyramid, corn consumption). There are key components you need to understand and specific knowledge you can act upon to protect your health. Youth and genes are vulnerable defenses. They are not enough. You need leverage. This book is that leverage, and thankfully its purpose is not just to inform or entertain; it has a higher standard - to educate. It challenges you look at your food differently and, as a result, hopefully eat healthier.

Final Word: Must Read


My Cheat Sheet*:
- replace some of your packaged snacks and desserts with fruits and nuts
- stock less junk food (if it's not around you're less likely to eat it!)
- don't drink soda regularly (it's just sugar and unnecessary calories)
- dilute juices with flat/sparkling water (lasts longer and saves calories)
- practice eating until the point you are satisfied, but before you are full
- eat smaller when you eat out (share/save the rest - it's multi-servings!)
- instead of butter/margerine, use oils or avocado for cooking or spreading
- drive less and walk more, park farther away, take the stairs
- eat meals with a large variety, instead of a large quantity, of food
- specific foods to substitute with more:
    spinach (so many nutrients: vitamin A, D, K, folic acid, potassium)
    beans - black, kidney, baked, lentils (protein, potassium, folic acid)
    oils - olive, safflower, sunflower, canola (lowers LDL and raises HDL)
    grainy and dark breads (low glycemic load, good carbs)
    wheat thins, triscuits (good replacement for crackers, chips)
    cereals: wheat chex, wheaties, kashi 1st; bran flakes, wheat germ 2nd
    chicken and tuna (higher % protein and less calories than beef)
    nuts - hazel, almonds, pine, walnuts, pecans (in order of UnS/S fat)
- general foods to consume less of or use in moderation:
    white potatoes, white rice (not so great, refined carbohydrates)
    dairy (saturated fat, hormones, lactose issues, excess linked to cancer)
    soy (good protein substitute in moderation, but still studying +/-s)

*DISCLOSURE: I am not a doctor, nor do I even pretend to be one on TV so [1] you can always read EDBH yourself and draw insights directly (it's worth it), and [2] always consult your physician before making major changes to your diet.

Some Best Practices: Crowdfunding

I have been asked on numerous occasions now from friends and acquaintances whether or not they can leverage the power of donation based crowdfunding for their ideas and if so, how to go about doing it - sounds like that is worth a blog post. Here are my thoughts.

Choosing Crowdfunding

Product
Some ideas are better suited for crowdfunding at this stage of the industry's development. The defining market tie is consumer focus. Products and projects that are relatively simple to understand and use work well - creative variations on familiar form. Physical, philanthropic and artistic projects have historically seen the most successful fundraising. Yes, technology/software has had the largest, most advertised wins, but they are not the current market norm.

Platform
Choosing a platform is a nuance of your product/idea. Kickstarter has the largest brand and more internet traffic, and is particularly selective and creative oriented. Indiegogo has a flexible process, an international scope and accepts a broad range of campaigns. Each has its advantages and disadvantages depending on your project. Other platforms are specialized around industry or product. No matter which one you choose, choose one platform and focus your efforts.

Payment
The business model for crowdfunding is still evolving. Make sure you read the terms, conditions and pricing parameters. Some platforms are all or nothing campaigns, others are progressive, where you  keep any portion of your raise. Also payment processing fees may be included in or in addition to platform transaction fees. These parameters are the difference between raising $100k and having up to $15k of it sliced off in total fees or all of your raise "returned" to donors. Finally, be sure that you are satisfied with all of the payment options available to potential campaign contributors.

Managing Crowdfunding

Networking
A successful campaign requires you to be ready to leverage your network - before you even add a project to a platform. Find a couple of friends or donors that will commit to your campaign in order to build momentum from day one. Organize and notify all of the people in your network and in your team's network to set up your campaign for success. In this sense, you can see how it is better when more than one person is involved.

Presentation
Take the time to put together an executive summary of your idea or product, but then distill it to the key points. Use this to create a concise presentation. It should highlight the uniqueness of your idea, its funding schedule, product timing, relevance to the market, the expertise of your team, and passion. A video is a necessary media touch. It is the quickest way to inform, educate and connect with potential donors. I recommend making it about 2-3 minutes. Use it to amplify and personalize the project.

Rewards
The most successful crowdfunding campaigns are donation based right now, but most offer something in return. If you choose one of these platforms, put time and effort into determining attractive rewards for potential donors. Do this before you launch your campaign. Think about your budget in terms of time and money. How much time will it cost you to organize and create these rewards and how much money will they cost? Be creative from a consumer perspective, what would you want?

Social Media
Crowdfunding works well as a social media funnel. You need to actively use it to draw attention to your campaign and keep it in front of potential contributors. Build and use connections to bloggers and journalists to help boost your signal. Entice them with stories on big wins for your campaign or project, and be sure to give your followers on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter updates on progress.

Choosing and managing a crowdfunding campaign takes a fair amount of work - as it should. Asking for external funding is a serious undertaking. Take the time and the effort to make sure that your product is right for the market and that you make right moves. Good luck.

Class Actress: Rapprocher. Review Sketch

year: 2011

tones of: david bowie, harold faltermeyer (co-writer of grammy award winning beverly hills cop soundtrack), prince, depeche mode

genre samples: synthpop, electric keyboard, electro-pop, new wave

music: mellow, smooth, playful, swirling, pretty, vintage, robotic, sweet, pulsing, light, fun

lyrics: all about love: swimming in, letting go, losing control, longing for, falling in - the works

favs: keep you, weekend, limousine, missed, let me in

interesting: rapprocher (rap-pro-shay) is the French verb form - to bring closer/together. class actress is from brooklyn. not implying anything. just stating facts.

score: 7.5/10