During my quarantine thus far, there haven’t been a lot of releases from local artists worth covering. I was expecting an influx of submissions would be keeping me busy throughout my time indoors, but that has not yet happened — until now. Back with a new drop is lyrical mastermind WhoIsAubry with a new single entitled “Amor (The Quest),” and this cut is the perfect example of how multi-faceted of an artist he is.

Produced by Aubry himself on his own iPhone, the instrumental comes in two parts. The first part of the song is a wavy trap beat filled with a ton of emotion. There’s a beat switch in the second half that brings in some eerie guitar melodies that are topped off with some turntable scratches and a chaotic drum break.

Aubry shows off his softer side on the first half of the cut, coming with some introspective lyricism and a sing-rapped delivery. His lines reek with nostalgia and a sense of longing.

Ally Of The Moon also drops in during the first half of the track, lending some ethereal sounding vocals in the background. It’s a beautiful addition to an already emotionally-charged soundscape.

Aubry’s vulnerable lyricism continues after the beat switch, coming with some lines that are poetic and incredibly hard-hitting. He switches over to more of a traditional hip-hop delivery, but his bars cut through every bit as much.

WhoIsAubry is one of Chicago’s most intriguing up-and-comers. He has a certain command over emceeing that not a lot of artists his age have, and it shows here once again. With a little help from a close confidant of his, “Amor (The Quest)” sees WhoIsAubry making the most of his time indoors.

“Amor (The Quest)” is now available on Soundcloud. Stream it here:https://soundcloud.com/aubryonly/amorthe-questfeat-ally-of-the-moon

Follow WhoIsAubry on Instagram @whoisaubry

Follow Ally Of The Moon on Instagram @allyofthemoon

This week was the first week we weren’t able to go into the studio to record the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast. So, we used a nifty app called CleanFeed to help with sound quality. I think it mostly worked.

We started out discussing the cool things the Detroit Three are doing to help with the Covid-19 relief effort. As someone who has a family member “on the front lines” as a paramedic, I appreciate what they’re doing to get more safety equipment and ventilators out to more entities as quickly as possible.

Then we switched gears to discuss a #cardujour I had a few weeks ago: The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro. This is a unique vehicle in its segment with an upright stance and a body-on-frame construction. But the truck has experienced a resurgence, and it’s novelty is a big part of the reason why.

Lastly, we spent a significant portion of the show talking to our guest Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecasting for AutoForecast Solutions, to talk about the long-range effects Covid-19 will have on the automotive industry. 

While I will continue to post the podcast to my blog each week, you can subscribe to the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast on any podcast subscription service or visit the Buzzsprout link. New episodes are usually posted on Friday, and then the show itself airs on WCPT 820 AM on Sundays from 1 to 2 p.m.

Be sure to let us know if you have questions or if there are any topics you’d like us to cover on future podcasts.

You can follow us on social at:

• Jill: @jillciminillo (instagram/twitter)
• Tom: @car_guy_tom (twitter)
• Damon: @DBell72333786 (twitter)
• Consumer Guide Automotive: @cgautomotive (twitter/facebook)
• Consumer Guide Car Stuff on facebook

This was written by one of my friends, retired Chicago Police Lieutenant John Dowd.  John has an MBA and is working as a private investigator lately.  He is also the Dean of his homeschooled classes while schools await reopening. He has touched on something that certainly should have us all thinking next time we hear the phrase “LOW SKILLED WORKER”.

” This pandemic has shown us the real value of our fellow Americans. What was commonly referred to as low skill jobs are some of the most essential jobs in the country. The cleaning person at the local hospital, the truck driver delivering gasoline to the gas station, the restaurant worker, the toilet paper manufacturer, assembly line workers making safety equipment, the national guard, nurses, and all the rest on the list far too long to write. Collectively we need to remember all these workers on an ongoing basis rather than falling back into our yesterday where some out of touch celebrity who really doesn’t give a crap about any one of  the people listed, is seen as an expert because of their notoriety.” John Dowd——- He goes on to quote Charles M. Russell, Montana, American Artist and champion of Native American Rights 1926.  “Guard, protect and cherish your land, for there is no afterlife for a place that started out has heaven.”

John’s brilliant incite has awoken in us just what the hell essential means and who is delivering and stepping up while most of us remain virtually helpless. Imagine where we would be without those so-called low skilled people. There would be no fights over toilet paper, hand sanitizer, eggs, milk, and all the other essential goods we all need to sustain life because they would not be on the shelves, to begin with. There would be nobody to clean and care for the sick when need be. All those people who at one time were labeled low skilled have finally been exposed for what they are “OUR HEROS.” During this pandemic ask yourself could we have ever survived without them? Look around and see who is there for us, not only for basic needs, but for safety, sustenance, and all those other essentials we surely have taken for granted in all those yesterdays that John mentioned.

I’m really wondering when this pandemic subsides if historians will be able to say about us what today’s historians say about, what some folks call “THE GREATEST GENERATION,” the time of World War II. Eighty years ago when America faced the crisis of a world war, the greatest generation stepped up together to defeat enemies that were bent on taking away our freedoms. Back in 1941, there was one man in the world who knew what we were all about, it wasn’t a guess.

His name was Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, Japanese Marshall Admiral of the Imperial Japanese Navy and  Commander in Chief of the combined fleet. Admiral Yamamoto was the architect of the Japanese attack at Pearl Harbor. He also had studied at Harvard for two years and knew the American people well and had great respect for American values and an admirer of our freedoms. The worst kind of enemy a Country could have.

The Japanese Government’s plans were to follow up Pearl Harbor quickly with land troops and invade our country swiftly when they assumed we would be at our weakest. Yamamoto fought against the idea of the invasion and informed the Japanese leaders that to do so would devastate our armies and in time America would defeat us.

His words to them were, “OUR ARMIES WOULD BE FACED WITH A RIFLE BEHIND EVERY BLADE OF GRASS FOR THOUSANDS OF MILES.” Yamamoto knew something of our history, he knew of that fighting spirit, that same spirit that routed the superiorly equipped British invaders with their, RED COATS.  He knew about the common folks who tamed the West and were always willing to answer any call that threatened American freedom. He also knew what we all think about today and can only guess of our leadership, that most have in their minds and speeches will have the same in their GUTS.

Do we have the right leaders?  Do we still have the RIGHT STUFF Yamamoto knew we possessed? We are facing a crisis, it’s early but it is real, it’s killing and making demands this generation never had to face. “IT’S IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND THAT NOT EVERY CRISIS CAN BE MANAGED.  AS MUCH AS WE WANT TO KEEP OURSELVES SAFE, WE CAN’T PROTECT OURSELVES FROM EVERYTHING.  IF WE WANT TO EMBRACE LIFE WE ALSO HAVE TO EMBRACE CRISIS.” Susan Elizabeth Phillips.

I certainly will not be around when those historians judge us, many years from now, but it’s my fervent hope we will be judged by our compassion, courage, and understanding. It’s time to take a stand, put bickering aside, squabbling, denial and blame are for losers.  We have to ask ourselves do we really have the right stuff in our guts. We are going to find out very soon.

“

One of the things I have come to love about mohit through covering his music is how versatile he is as an artist. His output cannot be defined by a particular sound or style, and all of the different vibes he has experimented with have displayed his many different talents. His new jam, “Want The Bag?” is a carefree, nocturnal sounding cut that invokes images of late night car rides and laughter with friends.

The instrumentation is stripped back and smooth. There’s a wavy set of synths that fade in and out, and the guitar lines add a sense of depth that is thick and watery. Despite how chill everything is, the bass hits and trap percussion pushing everything forward turns this into something of a banger.

mohit’s lines are scene-setting as they are funny. He uses his voice as an extra instrument on top of the moody production, adding to the nocturnal atmosphere. Despite the heart-felt crooning, the content is lighthearted and tongue-in-cheek.

“Want The Bag?” is a catchy, humorous tune that is perfect for a late a night vibe session. Everything sounds moody on the surface, but one listen through the lyrics make it clear that mohit isn’t taking himself too seriously on this one. From a listening perspective, this is the type of song that will transport you to a specific time and place — a clear sign mohit is only continuing to develop as a songwriter.

“Want The Bag?” is now available on Soundcloud. Stream it here: https://soundcloud.com/mohitsengupta/want-the-bag

Follow mohit on Instagram @mohitsengupta

It’s hard not to like a Toyota product and the n 2020 Avalon is no exception. Although for years it was a rather drab high-end sedan. Let’s face it, as popular as the Camry has always been, it too, wasn’t an eye-catcher. However, those days are long gone and both Toyota sedans are stylish and attractive.

Unveiled at the LA Auto Show, the 2020 Avalon touted its 3.5-liter V6, with 301 horsepower, and mileage at 22/32. Zero-to-60 in less than six seconds.

We liked the pickup and exhaust sounds when putting the pedal to the metal. There is a thrill one gets when driving a sporty car. The Avalon’s sounds can’t rival a Corvette’s, but then we’re talking about a whole different class of automobile. The 9-speed transmission is very smooth and effortless.

The Avalon has a beautiful, up-grade interior, plushy seating and every extra you’d want. The question maybe become, however, when Toyota offers a choice of the Camry TRD; equally attractive and sporty, yet quite a bit less ($12,000). Word has it both Camry and Avalon will be 4-cylnder and offer AWD.

The Avalon’s seats, although ample, didn’t fit this writer well. Perhaps they cater to a larger frame. We found them too large and couldn’t quit get the seat where it was comfortable. Either it was too high and/or too far back to reach the pedal satisfactorily. This isn’t a fault as others may find the seats just right.

Our test 2020 Avalon came in Supersonic Red with the Matte Black alloy wheels. Sharp. Beige Leather for the interior made a great combination, very classy and up-scale. Toyota offers some very attractive exterior colors for 2020, including the Opulent Amber, Harbor Gray Metallic, and Ruby Flare Pearl.

Models available include XLE ($35,875); Hybrid XLE ($37,000); XSE ($38,375); Hybrid XSE ($39,500); TRD ($42,375); and Touring ($42.575). Our TRD Model topped out at $45,384 with some optional equipment including Premium Audio with JBL Clarl-FI Dynamic Navigation and APP Suite. Including 4 speakers including Subwoofer and 1200W amplifier ,9-inch touch screen ($1,760), and Illuminated door sills ($379).

As is the case with most full-size sedans, the ride is comfortable, fitted with a large back seat and plenty of legroom. Trunk size (16 cu. Ft. of cargo space) is also generous and can accommodate 3-4 pieces of luggage, among other goodies. It’s the perfect car for a roadtrip. I remember the road trips in my father’s 1996 Buick Park Avenue Ultra. The car Hoovies Garage (U Tube) has named the “Best Kept Secret of AARP members,” and the “Most Affordable Car for Broke Millennials.” For $2000-$3000 you can pick up one of these Park’s, which offers such neat features as the license plate slot through the trunk.

Back to the 2020 Avalon upscale cabin, with quality materials, smooth handling and easily gliding powertrains and transmissions. Toyota offers many standard features, including the drive-assistance technology, standard rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning system, forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking-all standard, and available rear-cross-traffic braking.

Redesigned in 2019, there are few changes for 2020. However, Toyota has added the TRD trim level, our press car for the week. From Toyota’s performance division, the TRD (Toyota Racing Development) edition is sportier-outwardly and inwardly. We preferred it, though don’t think it’s true competition for the likes of sportier sedans. Upgrades include a sport-tuned suspension, red-painted brake calipers (loved this) and black-painted side skirts. The XLE trim level comes with heated power-adjustable side mirrors, LED headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, of course heated front seats (and cooled). The auto-dimming rearview mirror and tilt/telescoping steering column are also standard.

The sound system is better than some and has the up-to-date technology, including Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, driver assistance-listed above (blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise).

It’s been some time since we’ve tested an Avalon and the TRD was definitely a fun experience. At $45,000, not sure if it would be a first pick, but it’s been around since 2005. In fact, Avalon U.S. sales for 2018 were just under 26,000.
From what was considered by some as a drab, not very handsome full-size sedan, the Avalon finally has something to shout about, particularly in the TRD edition. Boring would probably have been the right adjective in the past, but the 2020 version has come into its own.

While pricing isn’t affordable for many shoppers, those who would be interested in the Avalon can probably justify it. We’re not sure what leasing numbers are like, and/or if this is a car that falls into that category.

Specs
Pricing: $42,300; total vehicle price $45, 384; delivery $955
Engine: DOHC 3.5-liter, V-6, 301 hp.,
Transmission: 9-speed
Wheels: 19-inch dark gray/black painted machine-finish alloy
Tires: P235/40R19; all-season temp spare
Height: 55.9 in.
Length: 195.9 in.
Weight:3,638 lbs.
Width: 72.8 in.
Wheelbase: 113.0 in.
Fuel Tank: 15.8 gal.
Crash test scores: Perfect 5 out of 5 (NHTSA)
Seating: 5
Warranty: Basic: 36 mth./36,000-miles,Powertrain: 60 mths/60,000 miles; Corrosion Perforation: 60 mths w/unlimited miles.

Hi there,

I know it’s been a while since I’ve posted but there has been a lot going on in the world. I hope everyone is staying in and staying safe. I know I’m doing my best to self-quarantine while trying to maintain my sanity. Now more than ever people are looking for comfortable and affordable lounge and activewear clothing.

Ever since I saw the Spanx leather leggings online, I knew I had to have them. However, the $100+ pricepoint threw me off and I vowed to find an affordable dupe online. Back in October, I rounded up a few of my favorites so far:

http://www.chicagonow.com/thrifty-girls-guide-chicago/2019/10/dupes-for-the-spanx-faux-leather-leggings/

Through a process of trial and error, I’ve been able to find true dupes that have the same matte leather finish without looking super cheap. They are found on Zulily: https://www.zulily.com/p/black-faux-leather-high-waist-crop-leggings-417593-73600586.html

They are currently only $22.99 but you do have to pay for shipping with Zulily. These are also listed as “cropped” but they seem to be a good length for me since I’m petite.

Let me know what you think in the comments.

SELF-ISOLATION, DAY 14

This is my second stab at writing today. Last night, or early this morning, about 2:30 AM I awoke, as I often do, and sat down and started typing. Later I realized it was kind of a political rant, which was not what I wanted. So, trying again.

This is just sort of a diary, albeit a boring one, but how do we get through the days when our routines are messed up? I was tired because of my disrupted sleep, and because I worked yesterday. Difficult to get on track. Part of that is, as I have said, my attention deficit, my focus problem. Bothered me since I was a kid. My parents couldn’t understand why I was so weird AND couldn’t remember stuff. Long lists, like, 1) go in your room, 2) put your toys away, 3)?? I still can’t remember what 3 was. My son is not like that, and my late wife had trouble focusing as well, so he must have picked up a recessive gene from somewhere in the family. He is like, REALLY neat and orderly. He is amazing.

So I managed to walk my dog 3 times, did the laundry, called friends, did my meditation, now I am typing. OH! I did my census! A friend reminded me; anyway, online it only took 6 minutes. Literally, 6 minutes. So, please, everyone do it if you have not yet.

Also, heard from someone that at least in some parks in a suburb, maybe Naperville, maybe somewhere else, the park benches have been removed. Also advised to use a plastic bag, I believe to open the park gates. Well, that makes sense. The benches, I am assuming a committee was cogitating on how to help enforce self-isolation and social distancing. So somebody says,”I know, we remove the park benches then people will not be able to sit together! They will have to stand together!” OK, maybe not; I actually have no idea. But it is possibly true. It does remind me of after 9/11. Airport Security all over, of course, very tight. Remove watches, keys, pocket change, shoes, everything to ensure an easier passage and that one was not dangerous. In the early days National Guardsmen stood behind the TSA checkpoint with M-16’s. Was very scary. But then a news crew, driving around checking on security at O’Hare I guess, found that a big gate in one area of the perimeter fence, for entry of all manner of delivery trucks for the Airport and for food for the aircraft, this gate had NO SECURITY! Trucks could just drive through. SO, crazy times. People react I guess. Lots of fear. Let us not panic.

Some good things besides bushes turning green and many people posting photos of flowers and growing things, there are more and more folks finding ways of staying connected. A church I sometimes attend is starting a group of people to ensure we call each other. Especially folks, I believe, who are not very mobile and likely really feel shut in. It is pretty easy for me to get out. Also, a FB group, of people staying in touch in positive ways. So, as someone once said:

Be safe, stay well, believe in the higher [powers. We can do this.

David, March 30, 2020