Diversions

We at DAME realize that your time is a valuable commodity, which is why we're consistently sacrificing ours in an effort to cut through the Internet clutter. The result: only the "finest" for your surfing pleasure.

By Randy Haberek
Published: Dec 01, 2007

www.hotchickswithdouchebags.com

THE CONCEPT: This site is dedicated to the inexplicable coupling of guidos, tools and otherwise unsavory man-apes and the attractive women who adore them, documented in digital imagery with colorful commentary.

THE CONCLUSION: As the old adage goes...”There’s a potential douchebag born every minute.” Therefore, there's no end in sight regarding content.

MITIGATING FACTOR: Viewers vote on a series of finalists to crown the “HCwDB” of the month. The winners are immortalized with the prestigious honor of being inducted into the “Hall of Scrote.”

www.overheardinnewyork.com

THE CONCEPT: Readers submit hysterical, absurd and often downright disturbing fragments of conversations overheard in various locales throughout Gotham. Obviously, there’s no way to determine the validity of these eavesdroppings, but that’s not the point, right?

THE CONCLUSION: David Mamet based his entire career on what this website delivers in spades (without the verbosity).

MITIGATING FACTOR: There are three companion websites– Overheard in the Office, Overheard at the Beach and Overheard Everywhere.

www.rockandrollconfidential.com

THE CONCEPT: Site devoted to taking the piss out of local bands from around the country. Their tagline reads, “Your band sucks.” ‘Nuff said.

THE CONCLUSION: It closely resembles a rock and roll version of The Onion, replete with an internet reality show (RRCTV). The first installment features Vancouver metal band The Legion. Unbeknownst to the band, they come across as a pack of tattooed, no-talent underachievers. Like Spinal Tap without the spine. Priceless.

MITIGATING FACTOR: A dizzying array of independent press photos line the hallowed “Hall of Douchebags.” Bands photographed against brick walls are collectively known as “Brickwallers,” while the single standout wannabes are mostly referred to simply as “Jeremy.” Personal vendetta or a nod to Eddie Vedder? You decide.

Randy Haberek, a native of Detroit, Michigan, has held staff positions at stellar publications such as Raygun, Bikini and Hustler. He has also been a frequent contributor to Stuff and the now-defunct FHM. When not toiling away in front of his antiquated Mac, he can usually be found in some dank dive bar trying to drown out the voices in his head.

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