Portland is just 40 minutes north of Portsmouth, NH along Route 95, but feels so much closer. I think it’s because there’s usually less traffic driving north, especially in the cold and gray non-tourist season. Portland is full of fun things to do – it has big city potential, but folks are happy just the way it is – it’s northern New England’s crossroads of culture on the coast. Whether you’re a fan of bar hopping, art galleries, independent film, gourmet and ethnic food, coffee, shopping, or sight-seeing – Portland has it all and without the big city price tags.  There are many parking garages and street parking spots – all priced not to break the bank. Some areas are even free – but I’m not telling where… you’ll have to find ‘em yourselves.

Start out parking near lower Congress Street, which is downtown Portland’s main drag.  It’s mixed with local and national businesses to admire – but pay most of your attention to YES Books located at 589 Congress Street. They’ve got tons of used books in all categories – I always find something and have at least 1 conversation with another patron… (more…)

Tortoise ‘Beacons of Ancestorship‘ (Thrilljockey)

The 6th studio album starts off in high gear.  Tortoise display many of their futuristic-sounding tools right out of the gate, including the rapid percussive sounds of John McEntire and the layers of rich timbre, heavily stuttering electro bass, and distorted beats that hit your speakers hard – be careful…  Post-punk, experimental, avant-garde, genre-benders, whatever you want to call it, this Chicago band is back and this time all 11 tracks are all around you. Enjoy. I recommend this album if you’re a fan of such albums, like TNT, Standards, and the 20 minute chef d’œuvre, Djed.