About Sinister Tidings

Here you will find a collage of likes and dislikes from RTS’ Spyder Collins. The primary focus is to bring fun and indie flashes of art and not so mainstream artists. There is nothing fancy, revealing, political or otherwise world shaping. Just things, introductions, reminiscing and fun in the world of literature, art and music, to which I hope you enjoy and find some pleasure in.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

On the writer's iPod - The Pretty Reckless




The Pretty Reckless is throwback sound with many labels, for me only one is needed - exceptional. Fronted by Taylor Momsen (once known as Cindy Lou Who from The Grinch 2000) whose voice is narcotic. It is as soothing as it is monstrous and provides a wide range of feelings. This coupled with a seasoned sound from the band, (Ben Phillips, Mark Damon and Jamie Perkins)  The Pretty Reckless provides the writer's muse with a backdrop for horror, dark fantasy and even … romance.

As it happens with most of my muse's finding, The Pretty Reckless was an accidental stubble while doing a bit of research for a script. It was Taylor's "grunge" (if you will) look in the midst of images I
was scouring though to provide a sampling for my agent. What was more pleasing was she sported a guitar … I clicked on the image and did some side research and came upon The Pretty Reckless.

The album "Light Me Up" spun and I discovered this amazing playlist comprised of:

1. My Medicine
2. Since You're Gone
3. Make Me Wanna Die
4. Light Me Up
5. Just Tonight
6. Miss Nothing
7. Goin' Down
8. Nothing Left to Lose
9. Factory Girl
10. You 


Instantly fell in love with Momsen's voice … the smooth hypnotic and yes narcotic voice. Frankly, this is one of those albums that is a 10 track ass-kicker, like everyone I have my absolute favorites that follow me everywhere, these include track 1, 3, 4, 6 and 8. A muse's heaven is The Pretty Reckless.

From there, I went to where any normal person would and that was to videos …   I offer Make Me Wanna Die but encourage you to check out Miss Nothing (never mind scroll down past Make Me Wanna Die), My Medicine and the viral version of Make Me Wanna Die. Hell watch everything PR!




Saturday, September 14, 2013

Spyder's ridiculously short movie review: Insidious Chapter 2



Well ... if you like it a little creepy then go for it - overall I found it not as good as the first and very Twilight Zone(ish) ... hold onto your "I didn't see that coming" hats at the very end tho ...

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Sunday, September 8, 2013

Kellie's Diary - Thomas Jenner and Angeline Perkins



In my humble opinion “Kellie's Diary” is an uncommon look at a very covered fictional (or non-fictional for some) topic of the Zombie Apocalypse or simply Zombies. The concept of a diary written in the view of a child is certainly different by my view but is it a saleable idea, obviously.

Kellie, the author of the diary pages is 9; this seems a bit far-fetched but all right. The pages read like a story, not necessarily a diary and detail the entry of zombies into Kellie’s school and her voyage through the school and back home. This zombie survival tale possesses the drama of survival and what’s next for Kellie and is quite the interesting little tale. This installment was short, and teaser or what some call a bait tale.

Overall, I am on the fence with this one. Certainly, a fresh angle, something new about the dead wander about – in this regard, very refreshing. On the other hand, I struggle with the believability factor of the protagonist – Kellie. Perhaps, I should just read and enjoy and not try an analyze. I do find myself doing that at the movies as well, sort of ruins things doesn't it?

Friday, September 6, 2013

Indie Art Stop: Alisha Hinds


From time to time I would like to share what I consider to be exceptional, interesting or just cool indie artist. As not to babble I will simply introduce to you Alisha Hinds:

Find her on:

Twitter
Pinrest
Web
Blog
Facebook

Enjoy some art: (and of course all art is the property of the owner, in this case Alisha Hinds) shared as a post not commercially used -





Tuesday, September 3, 2013

The Devil Within - A Boston Metaphysical Society Story - Madeleine Holly-Rosing



This is my second short from Boston Metaphysical Society based on the comic universe of the same name. Like The Secret, The Devil Within is set in the 1800's alternate universe of Boston, MA. Interesting setting that I believe adds to the series based on historical significance of Boston. One must find their way to the webcomics home and take a look around, do some reading and get to know the world and characters, including artist Emily Hu.

The story follows spirit photo snapper Andrew O'Sullivan as he fights with the horrors that he experiences during the course of his "normal" day, as a homicide detective. Naturally mystery and murder are afoot as the story unfolds. Moreover is the slight that Andrew must endure with his hidden or not so hidden paranormal talents (he's a medium). 

One can't help but fall in love with the steampunk origins of this tale or the undertones of slight horror and suspense. The characters, Andrew, his partner Angus, the early paranormal Duncan and the scant Caitlin who Andrew fears will follow in his ghastly footsteps, are well drawn. This is a tightly written tale with exceptional details and historic artifacts. If history was this much fun in college, I might have pursued a doctorate in history and remained in New Zealand.

Again, Holly-Rosing delivers an exceptional story fit into her steampunk vision of 1800 Boston. The Devil WIthin is an intriguing tale of horrors, life and history. I would love to read one of her scripts for selfish reasons, of course - her talent … is inspiring.

For the writer - read and learn of dialog, setting and mood. Sharply written and expertly edited, this is a professional presentation on an indie stage.

For the reader, like literature, steampunk, tightly written stories with exceptional detail … buy this it is certainly worth a look.

Sunday, September 1, 2013

Spyder's music notes: Nearly Deads and Icon for Hire

New music to consider for your musings:

New Release: Nearly Deads entitled Survival Guide. Sample single 'Brave' here:


Also, Icon For Hire's sophomore LP is due to hit the racks 10/15 in the meantime check out the single 'Cynics and Critics' here: