Actually, I used the wrong word. The layout is good, in my opinion. I just think that the colours and images are not harmonic. At some points it is even difficult to read the text.
If you are taking suggestions:
1. Use colour as background where there is text, or a very bright image. A bright grey tone (maybe F5F5F5) would be good. Black or very dark colour for the text.
2. The main background could be an harmonic image that contrasts only with the bright panels. I do not recommend background images with high contrast in them. They can distract the readers, or even disturb them.
3. Avoid using too different fonts.
4. The simple blog layout is a success these days.
After you decide the colour scheme, I can make flash buttons if you want.
Nothing totally wonderful, but neat.
