Tuesday Dispatch

I've been enjoying Human Weapon on History Channel. Of the two hosts, I prefer Bill Duff (the ex-football player / bodyguard / wrestler / stunt double) over the mixed martial arts champion Jason Chambers, who seems a bit arrogant and cocky around the masters with whom they are training. Chambers also tries to sneak in mentions of his fighting résumé too often, so he comes off like a tool. But beyond those minor annoyances, it's a cool show that combines geo-historical documentary with martial discipline and the infliction of pain. And that's all I ever ask of my entertainment.

-- -- -- --

Speaking of combining things that entertain me, a couple of the newest Yankees have chosen good songs for their at-bat "entrance" music. Shelly Duncan's got the White Stripes' "Icky Thump," and Wilson Betemit steps to the batter's box to "Better Man" by Pearl Jam. (That one's pretty funny, especially if he thinks it sounds like "Can't find a Bete-mit.") There's a pretty solid list of MLBers' theme songs here.

I would probably change my song every other day, but I can't find anything better than the Blood Brothers' "Set Fire to the Face on Fire." That... is... the... fucking... best. (Unfortunately, the "Listen" features at Amazon and the iTunes Store don't play the song from its incredible starting point. Download it for free -- my gift to you -- here.)

So here's a question... You've knocked the donut off the bat, tossed the pine tar onto the circle, and you're heading to the plate. What song is on the stadium P.A.?

[posted with ecto]

On iTunes right now: I Got Rhythm from the album Embassy Auditorium, 4-22-46 by Parker, Charlie

Comments

[walein]

Nick-YF and I used to bring out our "boom-Box" and play whiffle ball with intro songs. We usually did it for laughs so the trick was to play something like "Wish you were here" or "Dirt"

[Brian]

Serious answer? Maybe "Sure Shot" by Beastie Boys.

Joke answer? I think Morrissey's "You're the One for Me, Fatty" would be funny. Unless I was Rich "El Guapo" Garces in the late 90s, in which case it would be rather appropriate.

[Tim]

"Run To The Hills"-Iron Maiden

[so'c]

Great question. But where does one start? Intimidation? Uplifting? Personal? Crowd Pleasing? Here are a few that I'd love to blast as I step up to plate and face the Big Green Monster.

System Of A Down 'Cigaro' - Get pumped up! The first 15 seconds kick ass, and that's all you need.

Ice-T 'New Jack Hustler' - Shock value. People might think I'm crazy, giving outfielders trouble deciding on how to position themselves.

Rolling Stones 'Paint It Black' - Classic, epic, cool.

I'm gonna stop here because i can see this taking up my entire day.

[Tommy Himself]

Good songs, guys.

SOC: One can only hope that the opposing manager comes out to talk to the pitcher while you're approaching the plate. Then maybe the Fenway crown can enjoy Cigaro's lyrics.
http://www.lyricstop.com/c/cigaro-systemofadown.html

Tim: that's classic. I want to look at that list on Wiki again. Does anyone currently use that?

[Heath]

I very much dig HUMAN WEAPON, as I've been told that I have "explosive elbows", and it strokes my MMA Monkey.

My song would be:

"I", from Kiss' Music from The Elder

They said I didn't stand a chance
I wouldn't win no way
But I've got news for you
There's nothing I can't do
Ain't no pretending
Ain't no make believe
But I've got to be the one
I gotta do what must be done

Chorus
I believe in me
Yes, I believe in me!

and I am partial to Paul Lo Duca's "Rockit" by Herbie Hancock...

[Burning Dervish]

Tear the Roof off the Sucker (Give up the Funk) - Parliament

Though I like "I". Nice reference.