The New Cold Tropics

We’re in the middle of futbol fever, and this blogger is no exception. After all, it would be complete madness to take an interest in international music and culture and completely ignore the most beloved sport the world over. Meanwhile the South African location coincides with another interest on this blog – intense drone music. The vuvuzela is an instrument that has frequently been described as sounding like a massive swarm of insects, but listen closely and you begin to appreciate various tonal flutters in the midst of the chaotic maelstrom of deep swells from the more amateurish players. For fans of Tony Conrad and the like, this is not a series of games to be missed.

The best world cup blog out there is Bolas & Bandeiras. For a more abstract look, check out Moss Covered Grandfather. Meanwhile, one of this blog’s favorites, Ghetto Bassquake appears to be having something of a friendly trans-Atlantic internal feud. So maybe its a good thing the U.S. v. England match resulted in a draw, for music’s sake.

Unfortunately, being a soccer fan in the Bay Area means adjusting to a punishing sleep schedule… On the other hand, it is also nice living in a neighborhood in the U.S. with no shortage of bars, cafes, and restaurants full of fans watching the beautiful game. Luckily 2014 will be in South America, so the time zone difference will be less brutal.