Almost Awesome

Almost Awesome, Kris Tinkle's debut, is a largely anecdotal album covering his time as a substitute teacher, being a phone operator for the hearing impaired, former relationships, sex, drugs, and other mishaps. The spirit of the album is best conveyed by Kris' allegory of the Special Olympics. According to Kris, the first week of training for the Special Olympics involves a rigorous amount of celebrating. After twirling through the air, regardless of the outcome, the special needs athlete (dubbed "Handies" by Tinkle) stand up and raise one fist ("I did it!") Think Tommie Smith but with a helmet.