“Lost Coastlines” from Okkervil River releases The Stand Ins tomorrow, yet another lyrical masterpiece from Will Sheff and crew. I downloaded their song “Our Life is Not a Movie or Maybe”… and it’s a catchy one. Also, I’ve been by Ringlers lately and noticed they were playing there last weekend. So when I saw they released a new album , I was intrigued… and I really ‘get pleasure’ from what I hear. I’m delighted to recommend “Lost Coastlines” to you. The band brings the sex appeal of Jarvis Cocker from Pulp, and that makes me oh so happy.
“Louie” from Kimya Dawson's long-awaited children's album, Alphabutt… It’s a children’s album. This makes total sense that Kimya Dawson made a whole record dedicated to kids. Their songs on ‘Juno’ seemed to be stolen from Baby Genius or the like. (oh shut up, I am in tune with what the kids like these days, whether or not I am having them or not!) The song ‘Alphabutt’ would never have been kosher with the parents I remember dealing with during my time as a nanny. It goes through the whole alphabet and sings about how each letter stands for something having to do with your butt, whether it be ‘doo doo’ or ‘elephant doo doo’ or ‘farts’ or ‘gorilla farts’. Cuuuute, but parents aren’t going to be happy. This is why I love it. Those adults that complained about Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland and changed the ‘Whore’ sign, protesting that it wasn’t appropriate, can go suck doo doo. This song “Louie” is pretty silly, about a doggie named Louie. Awwwwww.
“Suicide and Redemption” from Metallica releases its latest album, Death Magnetic. You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometime, like Metallica did here in this album, you get what you need: classic Metallica. There is a time and a place for this band for sure for sure. Of course the title of this song isn’t exactly ‘upbeat’, but who REALLY wants that from hardcore rockers? I enjoyed the tracks I sampled from this new album… true fans will love it I’m sure. My neck hurts just thinking about listening to the whole album…
“Helen” from Horse Feathers new album “House With No Home” This band is really unusual … and are from Portland!!! The violin and soft vocals are soothing but they trip out with their electronic devices. I’m guessing they use a module. This is a personal inside joke for my benefit only. I can’t pin down whether they are trying to be psychedelic or more like Enya… They claim to be folk / indie. Personally, the violin is an underrated instrument that should be played more often. All in all, I would love to drive during sunset with this album playing, like say towards the friggen beach. Lets go. Well you can go see them October 3rd at Holocene for the cd release party… Please don’t cry, I have plans that night and won’t be there. You are on your own.
“The Other Side” from Angela Desveaux's The Mighty Ship, This is the only song that doesn’t sound like a Sheryl Crow cover… and even with that said I am not excited about this track I was forced to pick out of desperation. Angela is totally unoriginal, even if her hero’s are Lucinda Williams and Emmylou Harris. She doesn’t have the balls or creativity to pull off either influence. Sorry Angela… you have a lovely voice, its just all been done before. Try something else.
“Sarabande In Pencil Form” from Calexico's new album “Carried to Dust”, . Love their song “Corona” from their album Feast of Wire. IT sounds like a mariachi band, in the best way possible!!!!! This Carried to Dust album is carried in the same vein. Perfect album for an Indian Summer, which is basically what Portland is going through this month (83 degrees today, Sept 17th!). Their use of percussions, steel guitar, trumpet, and accordion stops me in my tracks. They could be the theme band for the Alamo… a fantastic mix of Texan, Mexican, and Americana rock, clearly incluence by the great Ennio Morricone. These boys are from Tuscan, and they have embraced it. Thank you Calexico for the lovely album! One for my collection for sure. And for the record, I had a really hard time picking out one track of the 16 on the album. AND they will be playing at the Crystal Ballroom on September 27th!
“Paper Kite” from Damien Jurado's “Caught in the Trees” who played a the Doug Fir last Friday. (September 12th) Oh well I was too busy that night running round town with my lovely lady friends. Ahh Damien. Not sure what I think of his music, honestly. I think his music is something that has to grow on you. Each song has a different feel – but I don’t feel passion from his voice. Like someone said “Hey Damien, you have a nice voice. Give this a try”. Like having a model become an actress. There is no feeling, just a one dimensional character. I have been wrong before (well -maybe?!) so I haven’t completely closed the door on him. He just isn’t the next M Ward for me, just yet… Still, the instrumentals in this song Paper Kite are breathtaking.
“Oh My Sweet Carolina” from the band Portastatic's new release “Some Small History” which is a b-side and rarities compilation. Never having heard of this band before, all their songs were rare to me! Yes, I picked this track because of “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond. Sue me. I like this band! They are story tellers from the Carolinas, mixing alternative rock (whatever that is) with Brazilian themes (WTF?!), apparently have been playing since 1992! Huh. I enjoy the sound and the rock style, like CSNY or Steve Miller, part country. I feel like there were situations a d people that inspired these songs, and they weren’t simply written. Sometimes the lead singer gets a bit nasally for my taste, but not everyone can sing like me.
Also, Fall Out Boy, Of Montreal, Plain White T’s, Robin Thicke, and the Pussycat Dolls have all released singles this week as well. None were great, and since they are singles, I can’t exactly pick another song from the album, can I. So of all five, Of Montreals single “Id Engager” is the only one I’d consider listening to again. But I bet we will be hearing the Pussycats and Fall Out Boy’s singles the most. Yay…
Lastly, I kinda like Jessica Simpson’s duet with Dolly Parton on Ms. Simpsons new album released this week. Shhhh…..
.
Showing posts with label New Music Tuesday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Music Tuesday. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
New Music Tuesday August 26th
August 26th
Having NO internet for 2 weeks. Count that, TWO, I had started this and then POOF the net was down. So I finished it today, and will do Sept 2 and 9ths new music Tuesdays hopefully before the 16th comes around. That’s the goal. Enjoy… some good ones and not so good ones…
“B Movie Saga” from Fratellis new EP “Look Out Sunshine! (imported B sides). The Fratellis are a fun band, no doubt about it. Are they the best out there? Not really. Their high energy and eccentric songs appeal to me, nonetheless… makes me smile when they randomly pop up on the pod shuffle. I don’t really expect to hear from them in 10 years…but I do enjoy their peppy music. I must say I was reviewing their June 9th album (thanks to Anne for giving it to me) and its fun but sometimes repetitive… I was pleasantly surprised from this B side release, though. Fun lil pop band to have in rotation with some happy music for the road… likes Apples in Stereo and the Ditty Bops. Compilation in the works perhaps? Nahhh to upbeat for my taste currently. I might kill someone if all that was playing at once.
“Room to Rock” from Matthew Sweet’s latest Sunshine Lies”. Fun fact you didn’t know about Matthew? He played with Susanna Hoffs and Mike Meyers in ‘Ming Tea’, the trio that jams between scenes during the first Austin Powers flick. Remember? “BBC 1! BBC 2! “ No? Well I do. Matthew seems like a fun person – do you ever get that vibe from someone you don’t know? I really love the lyrics to this song. He needs a room to rock in. I do too. It’s a bit Tom Petty, but I like Tom Petty – so this flies. Matthew has been in the music scene for a long time, and is a great song writer.
“Love is Noise” from the album “Forth” by the band The Verve. Yes this is the band who sang ‘Bitter Sweet Symphony’ back in the mid ninties… which I was never a fan of. The success of that bitter song temporarily broke up the band(3 years-ish) but all is well now a days. This song is so much less whiney and a bit like Pretty in Pink soundtrack worthy. Shit I might actually like the Verve. Hmm. Funny I hated that song they are so famous for though. The song “Columbo” on this album is downloadable as well, if you turn on your strobe light and glo-in-the dark paint your ceiling the constellations….
“Love in our hearts?” from Electric Touch's self-titled album. I must say, this really gets under my skin, in the best way possible. Sinatra under my skin style. This song my not catch everyones interest, but please be my guest and check them out for yourselves. I’m a bit perturbed they are skipping Portland on their tour… but I will forgive them. I might have to toy with the idea of buying this album. For some reason, they aren’t constistant with their energy on the album, like they had only so much time and/or money and stuck songs like “Don’t be afraid “ which sounds like it should be part of the Wonders setlist from the movie “That thing you do!”… which is great if it was 1957. But it isn’t.
“Dissapear” from Gabe Dixon Band's self-titled release. Ok I really only chose this track because it reminds me of a today’s version of Richard Marx… is that wrong? Not all the tracks are Richard-esque. I kinda like the “Sirens” song with the lead scanting and the electronic sounds mixed with the beautiful piano… I do love the piano. Gabe’s from Nashville, and is trying to make it big. Well he did something right. He collaborated with the guy who co-wrote that Grammy winning song “Not Ready to Make Nice” for the Dixie Chicks. Good one, Gabe. He has a clear voice, too. Satisfying to listen to.
“You Oughta be Satisfied Now” from Jonatha Brooke's album “The Works”. Put in the genre of pop, but I disagreeeeeeee. She is so country its not even funny. Ok, so now that I’m over the mis-categorization, I will review Miss Jonatha. This song is sassy and kina boring at the same time. I guess I’m over songs titled “Little Bird”, “My Flowers Grown Green”, or – hold the phone! She has a song called “There’s More True Loves than One”!!!! Too bad I don’t care for the all around feel of it, or I would probably buy it. Cute. Not clever enough like Ms Wainwright, who blows Jonatha off her rocking chair. Zzzzzzzzzzz. Please check her out at the Aladin Theater on November 6th.
All 150 songs from the The Motown Collection (11-disc box set). Holy Crap an 11 disc box set?? Chances are I own quite a lot of these tracks, but the compilation would be so rad at a party. Perhaps I will borrow the list and make my own… BUT I may be introduced to new R&B artists (not the Brian McKnight R&B, the ORIGINAL rhythm and blues artists…) so therefore I will definitely be looking into this in the near future. Classic American music that hasn’t been duplicated anywhere, especially anything released lately! (I think the Brits may always have a one up on the Rock and Roll genre tho…)
Speaking of Rock and Roll titans from across the pond, Led Zeppelin’s album “Mothership” has been remastered into 4-disc box set. Rather than describe word for word what has been done to the sound for your pleasure, please check out the link provided… Amazon will help you out. I’m sure buying an album, that isn’t exactly new, all remastered doesn’t sound appealing – I can assure you that a band like Led Zeppelin would love for their work to pay off to the listener in rare clarity form. I love how Amazon says they can’t believe the sound came out of four guys. I gave that exact review recently … does this mean I am starting to know what I am talking about here?! Probably not. Ha!!! Plus, my favorite song is on disc 2…. “Since I’ve been loving You”.
“Get these Blues off Me” BB King: One Kind Favor. Having been to BB Kings Blues Club & Grill in NY, I know how the big man rolls. He wasn’t there, unfortunately, but extreme maverick George Clinton was performing when I walked in … in full force at 11:30 on a Thursday night … (one doesn’t forget the details when seeing George and his Rastafarians on stage during my first experience in the great NYC). Back to BB King, he is very high on my list of artists to see live. I don’t really care what he produces; it will always be in his bluesy style that just simply kicks ass. I haven’t heard a word condemning the King, and I absolutely love that he won’t go into hibernation. If you still got it, flaunt it. FLAUNT away, BB! Did I mention I am totally downloading this song so I can strip tease to it sometime in the near future???
“What Remains” from Blues Traveler: “North Hollywood Shootout”. I don’t apologize for liking the Blues Travelers. I don’t apologize for being enormously jazzed to see them last December. Lastly, I don’t apologize for not listening to them on a regular basis. Recently (like a year or two ago!) I purchased their albums again… cuz I gotten rid of them in the past. I missed their asses, damn it. Popper has made a name for himself in the house of blues (not THE house, but a house I’m sure!). I think this song is really pretty, by the way. Always be a spot on my shelf for these guys…
All of Johnny Cash & George Jones: Live at the Louisiana Hayride: Johnny Cash & George Jones. Who wouldn’t love to have been there?!!! George Jones?!!!! Hells yeah! Not a self proclaimed country lover, but I can’t deny celebrated American idols like Johnny Cash and George Jones. Makes me want to go to Nashville and become a star… in my red cowboy boots. They are getting their run in on the cat walk these days, all prepared for stardom.
“Summertime” from the album “Somewhere” by the lovely Eva Cassidy. I don’t know if Eva will ever make a real name for herself, but she seems to pop up every now and again and I am reminded of her talents. I am not head over heals for her, but she is underrated all the same. She seems sweet, but am I the only one who thinks she has a bitchy name? Maybe that’s Eva Longoria’s fault… you know that girls a tramp! I’m soooo catty. This song is so sexy and I may have to karaoke it sometime soon. I want to see her make it.
All of Live at the Isle of Wight 1970 by The Moody Blues. Please tell me that the Moody Blues gets you hard like they do me… especially on a Tuesday Afternoon… (sorry I couldn’t help it). Anyway, someone makes serious bank releasing these old concerts to gullible fans like myself all eager beaver to check out what they were like that night. There is always something different, something new, (something borrowed, something blue… etc) that is fresh about a live album. Or better yet – seeing a band live in general! I have been fortunate to attend many concerts in my life, and there is nothing more thrilling than hearing your favorite track played live in front of your face. I mean can you even imaging “Nights in White Satin” at the Isle of Wight in 1970? You just know people were stoned out of their gourd swaying and holding onto each other telling strangers they loved you. Side note: apparently this Isle of Wight festival broke the record attendance at the time, beating out Woodstock (which, incase you actually didn’t know, was the year before, 1969).
“Lick it Up” from KISS’s “Kiss Best – Kissology” …. Had the pleasure of walking into a new bar recently (new for me, maybe not for you) and they consistently play Kiss videos. The bartenders succumb to the Jedi mind trick on getting free drinks. I’m not telling you where this place is – its my new secret. You can KISS my ass! And lick it…!!!
Having NO internet for 2 weeks. Count that, TWO, I had started this and then POOF the net was down. So I finished it today, and will do Sept 2 and 9ths new music Tuesdays hopefully before the 16th comes around. That’s the goal. Enjoy… some good ones and not so good ones…
“B Movie Saga” from Fratellis new EP “Look Out Sunshine! (imported B sides). The Fratellis are a fun band, no doubt about it. Are they the best out there? Not really. Their high energy and eccentric songs appeal to me, nonetheless… makes me smile when they randomly pop up on the pod shuffle. I don’t really expect to hear from them in 10 years…but I do enjoy their peppy music. I must say I was reviewing their June 9th album (thanks to Anne for giving it to me) and its fun but sometimes repetitive… I was pleasantly surprised from this B side release, though. Fun lil pop band to have in rotation with some happy music for the road… likes Apples in Stereo and the Ditty Bops. Compilation in the works perhaps? Nahhh to upbeat for my taste currently. I might kill someone if all that was playing at once.
“Room to Rock” from Matthew Sweet’s latest Sunshine Lies”. Fun fact you didn’t know about Matthew? He played with Susanna Hoffs and Mike Meyers in ‘Ming Tea’, the trio that jams between scenes during the first Austin Powers flick. Remember? “BBC 1! BBC 2! “ No? Well I do. Matthew seems like a fun person – do you ever get that vibe from someone you don’t know? I really love the lyrics to this song. He needs a room to rock in. I do too. It’s a bit Tom Petty, but I like Tom Petty – so this flies. Matthew has been in the music scene for a long time, and is a great song writer.
“Love is Noise” from the album “Forth” by the band The Verve. Yes this is the band who sang ‘Bitter Sweet Symphony’ back in the mid ninties… which I was never a fan of. The success of that bitter song temporarily broke up the band(3 years-ish) but all is well now a days. This song is so much less whiney and a bit like Pretty in Pink soundtrack worthy. Shit I might actually like the Verve. Hmm. Funny I hated that song they are so famous for though. The song “Columbo” on this album is downloadable as well, if you turn on your strobe light and glo-in-the dark paint your ceiling the constellations….
“Love in our hearts?” from Electric Touch's self-titled album. I must say, this really gets under my skin, in the best way possible. Sinatra under my skin style. This song my not catch everyones interest, but please be my guest and check them out for yourselves. I’m a bit perturbed they are skipping Portland on their tour… but I will forgive them. I might have to toy with the idea of buying this album. For some reason, they aren’t constistant with their energy on the album, like they had only so much time and/or money and stuck songs like “Don’t be afraid “ which sounds like it should be part of the Wonders setlist from the movie “That thing you do!”… which is great if it was 1957. But it isn’t.
“Dissapear” from Gabe Dixon Band's self-titled release. Ok I really only chose this track because it reminds me of a today’s version of Richard Marx… is that wrong? Not all the tracks are Richard-esque. I kinda like the “Sirens” song with the lead scanting and the electronic sounds mixed with the beautiful piano… I do love the piano. Gabe’s from Nashville, and is trying to make it big. Well he did something right. He collaborated with the guy who co-wrote that Grammy winning song “Not Ready to Make Nice” for the Dixie Chicks. Good one, Gabe. He has a clear voice, too. Satisfying to listen to.
“You Oughta be Satisfied Now” from Jonatha Brooke's album “The Works”. Put in the genre of pop, but I disagreeeeeeee. She is so country its not even funny. Ok, so now that I’m over the mis-categorization, I will review Miss Jonatha. This song is sassy and kina boring at the same time. I guess I’m over songs titled “Little Bird”, “My Flowers Grown Green”, or – hold the phone! She has a song called “There’s More True Loves than One”!!!! Too bad I don’t care for the all around feel of it, or I would probably buy it. Cute. Not clever enough like Ms Wainwright, who blows Jonatha off her rocking chair. Zzzzzzzzzzz. Please check her out at the Aladin Theater on November 6th.
All 150 songs from the The Motown Collection (11-disc box set). Holy Crap an 11 disc box set?? Chances are I own quite a lot of these tracks, but the compilation would be so rad at a party. Perhaps I will borrow the list and make my own… BUT I may be introduced to new R&B artists (not the Brian McKnight R&B, the ORIGINAL rhythm and blues artists…) so therefore I will definitely be looking into this in the near future. Classic American music that hasn’t been duplicated anywhere, especially anything released lately! (I think the Brits may always have a one up on the Rock and Roll genre tho…)
Speaking of Rock and Roll titans from across the pond, Led Zeppelin’s album “Mothership” has been remastered into 4-disc box set. Rather than describe word for word what has been done to the sound for your pleasure, please check out the link provided… Amazon will help you out. I’m sure buying an album, that isn’t exactly new, all remastered doesn’t sound appealing – I can assure you that a band like Led Zeppelin would love for their work to pay off to the listener in rare clarity form. I love how Amazon says they can’t believe the sound came out of four guys. I gave that exact review recently … does this mean I am starting to know what I am talking about here?! Probably not. Ha!!! Plus, my favorite song is on disc 2…. “Since I’ve been loving You”.
“Get these Blues off Me” BB King: One Kind Favor. Having been to BB Kings Blues Club & Grill in NY, I know how the big man rolls. He wasn’t there, unfortunately, but extreme maverick George Clinton was performing when I walked in … in full force at 11:30 on a Thursday night … (one doesn’t forget the details when seeing George and his Rastafarians on stage during my first experience in the great NYC). Back to BB King, he is very high on my list of artists to see live. I don’t really care what he produces; it will always be in his bluesy style that just simply kicks ass. I haven’t heard a word condemning the King, and I absolutely love that he won’t go into hibernation. If you still got it, flaunt it. FLAUNT away, BB! Did I mention I am totally downloading this song so I can strip tease to it sometime in the near future???
“What Remains” from Blues Traveler: “North Hollywood Shootout”. I don’t apologize for liking the Blues Travelers. I don’t apologize for being enormously jazzed to see them last December. Lastly, I don’t apologize for not listening to them on a regular basis. Recently (like a year or two ago!) I purchased their albums again… cuz I gotten rid of them in the past. I missed their asses, damn it. Popper has made a name for himself in the house of blues (not THE house, but a house I’m sure!). I think this song is really pretty, by the way. Always be a spot on my shelf for these guys…
All of Johnny Cash & George Jones: Live at the Louisiana Hayride: Johnny Cash & George Jones. Who wouldn’t love to have been there?!!! George Jones?!!!! Hells yeah! Not a self proclaimed country lover, but I can’t deny celebrated American idols like Johnny Cash and George Jones. Makes me want to go to Nashville and become a star… in my red cowboy boots. They are getting their run in on the cat walk these days, all prepared for stardom.
“Summertime” from the album “Somewhere” by the lovely Eva Cassidy. I don’t know if Eva will ever make a real name for herself, but she seems to pop up every now and again and I am reminded of her talents. I am not head over heals for her, but she is underrated all the same. She seems sweet, but am I the only one who thinks she has a bitchy name? Maybe that’s Eva Longoria’s fault… you know that girls a tramp! I’m soooo catty. This song is so sexy and I may have to karaoke it sometime soon. I want to see her make it.
All of Live at the Isle of Wight 1970 by The Moody Blues. Please tell me that the Moody Blues gets you hard like they do me… especially on a Tuesday Afternoon… (sorry I couldn’t help it). Anyway, someone makes serious bank releasing these old concerts to gullible fans like myself all eager beaver to check out what they were like that night. There is always something different, something new, (something borrowed, something blue… etc) that is fresh about a live album. Or better yet – seeing a band live in general! I have been fortunate to attend many concerts in my life, and there is nothing more thrilling than hearing your favorite track played live in front of your face. I mean can you even imaging “Nights in White Satin” at the Isle of Wight in 1970? You just know people were stoned out of their gourd swaying and holding onto each other telling strangers they loved you. Side note: apparently this Isle of Wight festival broke the record attendance at the time, beating out Woodstock (which, incase you actually didn’t know, was the year before, 1969).
“Lick it Up” from KISS’s “Kiss Best – Kissology” …. Had the pleasure of walking into a new bar recently (new for me, maybe not for you) and they consistently play Kiss videos. The bartenders succumb to the Jedi mind trick on getting free drinks. I’m not telling you where this place is – its my new secret. You can KISS my ass! And lick it…!!!
Monday, March 3, 2008
New Music Tuesday February 19th!
not a bad week. my little niece was born this week. very exciting. here you go.
“Conquista” White Stripes Spanish version of their single “Conquest”. Was it really necessary to sing Conquest in Spanish? Guess so. Must say it is uber preeminente. Jack White’s voice is somehow even more chillingly perfect in espanol! He sure knows how to keep selling singles! Cracks me up. Just go check this song out and stop thinking “I wonder what it sounds like in Spanish?”
“Shine” Anna Nalick’s new single. Way better than her song “Breathe”. That Breathe song tortured us all for months and months everywhere we went. And we all thought the same thing “gosh I like this song til she gets to the chorus!” I hope Anna shines with this new single and blinds us all of our memory of her past ‘hit’. Wait til her new album comes and then we will see if Anna has the chops to be a star or just another one hit wonder. She does have a pretty voice, so I hope she delivers the goods when ever the release date shall be.
“You Can’t always get what you want - REMIX” Rolling Stones from the movie “21”. Wow. I didn’t get what I wanted from this remix. The choir background is kinda cool how they cut and pasted between the lyrics, yet it sounds like something I could do with a double tape deck and about ten minutes. Someone made a lot of moolah editing a great rock and roll song and turning it into an electronic mess. Maybe I have to hear it form the beginning through to the end. The only star this song gets from me is the fact that Kevin Spacey is in the movie, so I’m excited for its release.
“Lonely” from Bat for Lashes “Live Session EP”. Love their song “Horses and I”. Want their whole album. Not I need their new EP. They are like if Annie Lennox was starting out today and chose to go the indie rock route instead. Actually they claim they sound like “Halloween when you were little”. I love it. I hadn’t heard this song before, since it’s not on their only available cd “Fur and Gold”. I came across a way cute UK indie clothing site from a link (love the necklace?) on the Bat for Lashes myspace, plus a very interesting bloggg from the same site operator. What a find. She reviewed an album I will also be listening to later in this blog (Bon Iver) and I even learned a bit about the artist. Cool. I liked the review to my review. Say that ten times as fast as you can, while listening to “What’s a Girl to Do?” by these pretty Lashes.
“San Bernardino” from the new Mountain Goats album, “Heretic Pride”. These guys have been making sweet music since the early 90’s. I have never heard of them, and I probably should have since back in 2004 their album “We Shall All Be Healed” is tied to our beloved City of Roses. Check out this quote:
“We Shall All Be Healed chronicles Darnielle's life with a group of friends and acquaintances addicted to methamphetamine in Portland, Oregon, though the album is set in Pomona, California.”
This song is really pleasing to listen to, by the way. Beautiful strings. I’d prefer the music without the vocals tho…
“Skinny Love” from Bon Iver “For Emma, Forever Ago”. This is Justin Vernon’s stage name and his debut album. Justin’s music is acoustic guitar combined with his incredible voice which equals the perfect indie folk singing. Please check out the link on the title of the album, for the blog I mentioned above does a superb job of reviewing this young man. You may see him play his magic live at Holocene here in Portland on March 24th.
“I Want a little sugar in my bowl” from Allison Moorer’s new album “Mockingbird”. This is a really hot version of one of my old favorites. Such a sexy song with innuendos up the yang. Allison is usually more folky and country but she brought in the blues for this number and it worked. So you think this song is about running out of sweetener? Take a peek at the lyrics :
Soothe me
I want some sugar in my bowl
I want some steam
on my clothes
Maybe I can fix things up so they'll go
Whatsa matter Daddy
Come on save my soul
I don’t think so….
“Dirty Dollar Bill” from Flowers Forever's self-titled debut. Don’t know a thing about them except they are from Nebraska and this is their first album. This song is fun though and I wanted to add them to my NMT playlist. Forever Flowers!!!!!
“Cherry Tulips” from Headlights' “Some Racing, Some Stopping”. I may have to purchase this track, if not the whole album. Actually I just reviewed the whole album and this is the only song I’d download. Sorry Headlights, my heart doesn’t race for your music. Just your Cherry Tulips. Mmmmmm….
“I Just Want the Girl in the Blue Dress” from Mike Doughty's “Golden Delicious”. Mike’s style is different enough for me to take notice in, but his voice is too “Wallflowers ‘97”. He takes risks and his songwriting is fantastic, so I am not “pooh-poohing” him yet. Check out his talent at the Wonder Ballroom on April 26th. I won’t be, for my friend is having her civil ceremony in New York and I’m going. ;) I love NY.
“Lust” from the Raveonettes' new album “Lust Lust Lust” I downloaded their “Christmas Song” for my “Indie Christmas” album I never got to finish (*tear*tear*). The song is really chilling and I apologize for not getting it to you all. This lust song is pretty cool as well. The Ravonettes have their own sound for sure - like Dido if she had a steel guitar. I’d prefer them on shuffle with other songs for their music is a bit much all at once.
“Conquista” White Stripes Spanish version of their single “Conquest”. Was it really necessary to sing Conquest in Spanish? Guess so. Must say it is uber preeminente. Jack White’s voice is somehow even more chillingly perfect in espanol! He sure knows how to keep selling singles! Cracks me up. Just go check this song out and stop thinking “I wonder what it sounds like in Spanish?”
“Shine” Anna Nalick’s new single. Way better than her song “Breathe”. That Breathe song tortured us all for months and months everywhere we went. And we all thought the same thing “gosh I like this song til she gets to the chorus!” I hope Anna shines with this new single and blinds us all of our memory of her past ‘hit’. Wait til her new album comes and then we will see if Anna has the chops to be a star or just another one hit wonder. She does have a pretty voice, so I hope she delivers the goods when ever the release date shall be.
“You Can’t always get what you want - REMIX” Rolling Stones from the movie “21”. Wow. I didn’t get what I wanted from this remix. The choir background is kinda cool how they cut and pasted between the lyrics, yet it sounds like something I could do with a double tape deck and about ten minutes. Someone made a lot of moolah editing a great rock and roll song and turning it into an electronic mess. Maybe I have to hear it form the beginning through to the end. The only star this song gets from me is the fact that Kevin Spacey is in the movie, so I’m excited for its release.
“Lonely” from Bat for Lashes “Live Session EP”. Love their song “Horses and I”. Want their whole album. Not I need their new EP. They are like if Annie Lennox was starting out today and chose to go the indie rock route instead. Actually they claim they sound like “Halloween when you were little”. I love it. I hadn’t heard this song before, since it’s not on their only available cd “Fur and Gold”. I came across a way cute UK indie clothing site from a link (love the necklace?) on the Bat for Lashes myspace, plus a very interesting bloggg from the same site operator. What a find. She reviewed an album I will also be listening to later in this blog (Bon Iver) and I even learned a bit about the artist. Cool. I liked the review to my review. Say that ten times as fast as you can, while listening to “What’s a Girl to Do?” by these pretty Lashes.
“San Bernardino” from the new Mountain Goats album, “Heretic Pride”. These guys have been making sweet music since the early 90’s. I have never heard of them, and I probably should have since back in 2004 their album “We Shall All Be Healed” is tied to our beloved City of Roses. Check out this quote:
“We Shall All Be Healed chronicles Darnielle's life with a group of friends and acquaintances addicted to methamphetamine in Portland, Oregon, though the album is set in Pomona, California.”
This song is really pleasing to listen to, by the way. Beautiful strings. I’d prefer the music without the vocals tho…
“Skinny Love” from Bon Iver “For Emma, Forever Ago”. This is Justin Vernon’s stage name and his debut album. Justin’s music is acoustic guitar combined with his incredible voice which equals the perfect indie folk singing. Please check out the link on the title of the album, for the blog I mentioned above does a superb job of reviewing this young man. You may see him play his magic live at Holocene here in Portland on March 24th.
“I Want a little sugar in my bowl” from Allison Moorer’s new album “Mockingbird”. This is a really hot version of one of my old favorites. Such a sexy song with innuendos up the yang. Allison is usually more folky and country but she brought in the blues for this number and it worked. So you think this song is about running out of sweetener? Take a peek at the lyrics :
Soothe me
I want some sugar in my bowl
I want some steam
on my clothes
Maybe I can fix things up so they'll go
Whatsa matter Daddy
Come on save my soul
I don’t think so….
“Dirty Dollar Bill” from Flowers Forever's self-titled debut. Don’t know a thing about them except they are from Nebraska and this is their first album. This song is fun though and I wanted to add them to my NMT playlist. Forever Flowers!!!!!
“Cherry Tulips” from Headlights' “Some Racing, Some Stopping”. I may have to purchase this track, if not the whole album. Actually I just reviewed the whole album and this is the only song I’d download. Sorry Headlights, my heart doesn’t race for your music. Just your Cherry Tulips. Mmmmmm….
“I Just Want the Girl in the Blue Dress” from Mike Doughty's “Golden Delicious”. Mike’s style is different enough for me to take notice in, but his voice is too “Wallflowers ‘97”. He takes risks and his songwriting is fantastic, so I am not “pooh-poohing” him yet. Check out his talent at the Wonder Ballroom on April 26th. I won’t be, for my friend is having her civil ceremony in New York and I’m going. ;) I love NY.
“Lust” from the Raveonettes' new album “Lust Lust Lust” I downloaded their “Christmas Song” for my “Indie Christmas” album I never got to finish (*tear*tear*). The song is really chilling and I apologize for not getting it to you all. This lust song is pretty cool as well. The Ravonettes have their own sound for sure - like Dido if she had a steel guitar. I’d prefer them on shuffle with other songs for their music is a bit much all at once.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
New Music Tuesday January 29th!
January 29th was a bright day for music regardless of the .2 inches of rain we had...
“Memories” from The Mars Volta’s new album “The Bedlam in Goliath”. I like their old stuff better… They went too chaotic for me on this album. I know they are probably just getting some angst out, as most of us need to at some point or another. My favorite thing about this band is what I read about them on via the internet: “On a trip in Jerusalem, Rodriguez-Lopez (guitarist/bands producer) purchased an archaic ouija-type talking board at a curio shop as a gift for Bixler-Zavala (lead vocal). They would return to their tour bus after shows to play with it during their 2006 tour with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, as it quickly became the band's post-show ritual.” I haven’t played the ouija board in years. One time four of my classmates got in trouble cuz they took the game into the church and played it while we were supposed to be at recess. Naughty catholic school kids…. We are SSOOOOO our reputation !!!!!
“Guild by Association” from Louis XIV from their new friggen sweet record “Slick Dogs and Ponies”. Great album title. Freaky album cover, but still inventive. I saw these guys open for the Killers last May, which was a pretty KILLER show. Seriousss. I like these guys. I am rooting for them to make it big. Grammy big. They are distinctive enough to have a name of their own, and not some reference to a dead king. They can be a bit naughty or rub you the wrong way, but that can be memorable too. Is that such a bad thing? Go Louis! Sorry I missed you playing with the Editors and Hot Hot Heat last week. I suck. No, you suck for not reminding me and wanting to go, too.
“Oxford Comma” from Vampire Weekend's self-titled album, which is their debut record. Very exciting, isn’t it. Well, it is, and here is why: if Rolling Stone Magazine is naming you the #67 best song of 2007 and you don’t even have an album out yet, you are pretty effin cool (this song would be “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa”). They are influenced by African music! The song is really really good (I sorta downloaded a bunch of top songs from that list to check them out …) and it should probably be listed before some of the other crap above it like “Same Girl” by R. Kelly and Usher, or the song “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” by Miranda Lambert or “Bleed it Out” by Linkin Park… but most of the songs are really good and not all you know every word to (not by choice) like the top 100 Billboard hits. Go to the Doug Fir March 25th and see them for yourselves. Don’t take my word for it.
“Two Fifty” from Chris Walla’s new album “Field Manual”. The guitarist from Death Cab released his first solo album as himself (he had another solo project that I believe is dead in the water at the moment.). So his music really sounds like John Mayer. The good news is that throughout most of the album I don’t feel like I took a sedative (the way Death Cab for Cutie makes me feel). The track “Two-Fifty” starts the album off with a low key whimsical tune like the first day of snow. I don’t know if this was the best choice to open the debut solo career…. I wanted to see a bit more like his song “Sing Again”, but we can’t always get what we want, can we?
“Shed your love” from the Helio Sequence's excellent “Keep Your Eyes Open”. This song is sooo beautiful . The album art is exactly what you picture while playing this whole record (hands releasing crane like birds).
You know that movie “Winged Migration” ?? Well this album would have been a perfect fit of a soundtrack. Lovely album that I will put on my list to purchase. Right on. Bonus: They are from Portland (!!!!!!) and will be playing at the Crystal Ballroom on March 5th. Boo-yaaaa!
“The Killers 1964” from Ida's new album “Lovers Prayers”, just in time for Valentines day! Yeeee-ah. Very sweet and full of folk indie softness, Joni would be proud. The stories are intricate and the guitar picking precise and strikingly beautiful. Ida is a boy and girl duo fro NYC and have been playing sweet music since 1992. The girl, Elizabeth Mitchell, was in a duo previously with Lisa Loeb in college (Brown U.) and guess who was their guitarist? Their classmate Duncan Sheik of course!!!! How ‘bout THEM apples, eh?
“Banned from the Roxy” from Jeffrey Lewis's “12 Crass Songs”. Well of course I was intrigued by claiming the album was all crass. One may say that I am crass myself. I think there are a certain few out there who don’t know me that think all I do is make an ass of myself. You know who you are. Ahem. Anyway, fuck off. So I had to pick this song simply because I couldn’t fathom being banned from the Roxy!!! That place should be condemned today! Course where would Anne and I go after our shows at the Crystal if it were gone. Cassidy’s I guess. Or Ringlers. That’s besides the point. This Jeffrey Lewis is a silly silly guy with a very clever mind and a very big potty mouth. I don’t think he is really that crass tho. He is just politically incorrect and sexist, racist, and a bigot. Ok, guess that is the epitome of crass. He’s crass. But he’s funny!! Check him out. Just for kicks. You know you are crass-curious!
“You’ve really got a hold on me” from Thao's new album “We Brave Bee Stings and All”. I need this song on my pod right now. Right now, I say! It’s the sexiest rendition of an otherwise just another Motown one hit wonder. (ok the Miracles sang more than that. Be quiet, music snob. ) Their song “Beat Health” is really tribal yet resembles Cat Power, or at least Cat wishes. They have so much more to their sound, its crazy. I’m blown away by their cheeky lyrics and percussions, guitars, etc. Go see them at the Someday Lounge on March 7th with the following band (Xiu Xiu). I may have to as well for $8.00…
“No Friends Oh! ” from Xiu Xiu's “Women As Lovers”. This band has been experimenting with instruments and sounds since the year 2000. They strike the same chord as Pulp does for me, with that dark deep seductive voice. That Jarvis Cocker (lead singer of Pulp) always knows my buttons. Back to Xiu Xiu, they are a one of a kind indie-punk group San Jose. They seem to be more like they should be from a tiny rainy village in the U.K. They like to cover the Smiths and are influenced by the Cure and Joy Division. I think they were influenced by Pulp and don’t know it. That’s what I think. Jarvis got into their brains and meddled with their artistic cells, manipulating them into speaking in a baritone voice during the song. You should check out their “Kitten Revolution” song as well. Snap.
”Ready for the Floor” Hot Chip: (import single). You too will be ready for the floor when hearing this hit single by the one and only Hot Chip. I am enthralled by this band. I don’t know why. Maybe it’s because of their name, maybe its cuz we aren’t as obsessed with them as Americans as those hip Brits. I really don’t know. Go see them at the Crystal on the 23rd of April before they become untouchable. Trust me on this one. (p.s. they release a new album next blogggg… wooo hooo)
“The Bob Song” from Willie Nelson’s new album “Moment of Forever”. Willie covers some choice artists on this new record of his, from Kenny Chesney to Dave Matthews. The Bob Song is a cute little diddy that some guy named “Big Kenny” wrote., who is part of the Big and Rich duo (the BIG part…). Listening to their version its not a great song… but somehow Willie turns into a folky rant about a drunk named B-O-B. Fantastic cover, Nr Nelson. Keep up with the Bio-Willie fuel, the world will catch on in due course.
“Send me an Angel” from Dirty On Purpose’s new “Like Bees” EP. Apparently this song was on an episode of Australia’s Real Life. Shit, I don’t even watch the American version, so I had no idea. I’m noticing that a lot of bands get launched careers from Laguna Beach or Grey’s Anatomy, or likewise. I’d like to point out that Dawson’s Creek started that whole deal. Word. On purpose or not, this band is magnificent, even if they ARE known for being shoe gazers…
“Hearts of Crows” from the Radar Bros. new cd “Auditorium”. Ok, so if you thought that “shoe gazers” was a weird category, try “sadcore”. I am not lying here. The Radar Bros. are exactly that. Sadcore. I love it love it love it. I even HEART them. Oh no I didn’t!! These boys are from LA, but the fast pace of that city doesn’t show in their music. You would think they were from Boyden, Iowa or Blandville, West Virginia (real places, BTW)) instead. The mellow riffs and sleepy steel guitar clears the smog of the LA skies and transports you to the country, man. Pass the doobie, radar bro.
“In the Morning” from Quinn Walker’s new album “Lion Land / Laughter’s An Asshole”. Ok so he’s “alternative” but I’d stick him in the WTF genre, cuz that was my first thought. This choice song isn’t so weird, but the others (“Porcupine”, “Through the Skull of a Goat”, or “Warm in the Sun/Worn in the Sun”, take your pick.). He likes to sing in his falsetto, with sounds I can only describe as coming from a synthesizer… (moog?). His MySpace is really disturbing, as well as the cover art of the record. In the beginning I thought his music was like the drum circle at the country fair, but it’s really not. He likes to experiment too much, and I am pretty sure in all aspect of that word… Don’t think I will be downloading any of Quinn’s music after seeing this picture (at your own risk) on his page but I comment him for being… errr… original. !!! Ick.
“Memories” from The Mars Volta’s new album “The Bedlam in Goliath”. I like their old stuff better… They went too chaotic for me on this album. I know they are probably just getting some angst out, as most of us need to at some point or another. My favorite thing about this band is what I read about them on via the internet: “On a trip in Jerusalem, Rodriguez-Lopez (guitarist/bands producer) purchased an archaic ouija-type talking board at a curio shop as a gift for Bixler-Zavala (lead vocal). They would return to their tour bus after shows to play with it during their 2006 tour with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, as it quickly became the band's post-show ritual.” I haven’t played the ouija board in years. One time four of my classmates got in trouble cuz they took the game into the church and played it while we were supposed to be at recess. Naughty catholic school kids…. We are SSOOOOO our reputation !!!!!
“Guild by Association” from Louis XIV from their new friggen sweet record “Slick Dogs and Ponies”. Great album title. Freaky album cover, but still inventive. I saw these guys open for the Killers last May, which was a pretty KILLER show. Seriousss. I like these guys. I am rooting for them to make it big. Grammy big. They are distinctive enough to have a name of their own, and not some reference to a dead king. They can be a bit naughty or rub you the wrong way, but that can be memorable too. Is that such a bad thing? Go Louis! Sorry I missed you playing with the Editors and Hot Hot Heat last week. I suck. No, you suck for not reminding me and wanting to go, too.
“Oxford Comma” from Vampire Weekend's self-titled album, which is their debut record. Very exciting, isn’t it. Well, it is, and here is why: if Rolling Stone Magazine is naming you the #67 best song of 2007 and you don’t even have an album out yet, you are pretty effin cool (this song would be “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa”). They are influenced by African music! The song is really really good (I sorta downloaded a bunch of top songs from that list to check them out …) and it should probably be listed before some of the other crap above it like “Same Girl” by R. Kelly and Usher, or the song “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” by Miranda Lambert or “Bleed it Out” by Linkin Park… but most of the songs are really good and not all you know every word to (not by choice) like the top 100 Billboard hits. Go to the Doug Fir March 25th and see them for yourselves. Don’t take my word for it.
“Two Fifty” from Chris Walla’s new album “Field Manual”. The guitarist from Death Cab released his first solo album as himself (he had another solo project that I believe is dead in the water at the moment.). So his music really sounds like John Mayer. The good news is that throughout most of the album I don’t feel like I took a sedative (the way Death Cab for Cutie makes me feel). The track “Two-Fifty” starts the album off with a low key whimsical tune like the first day of snow. I don’t know if this was the best choice to open the debut solo career…. I wanted to see a bit more like his song “Sing Again”, but we can’t always get what we want, can we?
“Shed your love” from the Helio Sequence's excellent “Keep Your Eyes Open”. This song is sooo beautiful . The album art is exactly what you picture while playing this whole record (hands releasing crane like birds).
You know that movie “Winged Migration” ?? Well this album would have been a perfect fit of a soundtrack. Lovely album that I will put on my list to purchase. Right on. Bonus: They are from Portland (!!!!!!) and will be playing at the Crystal Ballroom on March 5th. Boo-yaaaa!
“The Killers 1964” from Ida's new album “Lovers Prayers”, just in time for Valentines day! Yeeee-ah. Very sweet and full of folk indie softness, Joni would be proud. The stories are intricate and the guitar picking precise and strikingly beautiful. Ida is a boy and girl duo fro NYC and have been playing sweet music since 1992. The girl, Elizabeth Mitchell, was in a duo previously with Lisa Loeb in college (Brown U.) and guess who was their guitarist? Their classmate Duncan Sheik of course!!!! How ‘bout THEM apples, eh?
“Banned from the Roxy” from Jeffrey Lewis's “12 Crass Songs”. Well of course I was intrigued by claiming the album was all crass. One may say that I am crass myself. I think there are a certain few out there who don’t know me that think all I do is make an ass of myself. You know who you are. Ahem. Anyway, fuck off. So I had to pick this song simply because I couldn’t fathom being banned from the Roxy!!! That place should be condemned today! Course where would Anne and I go after our shows at the Crystal if it were gone. Cassidy’s I guess. Or Ringlers. That’s besides the point. This Jeffrey Lewis is a silly silly guy with a very clever mind and a very big potty mouth. I don’t think he is really that crass tho. He is just politically incorrect and sexist, racist, and a bigot. Ok, guess that is the epitome of crass. He’s crass. But he’s funny!! Check him out. Just for kicks. You know you are crass-curious!
“You’ve really got a hold on me” from Thao's new album “We Brave Bee Stings and All”. I need this song on my pod right now. Right now, I say! It’s the sexiest rendition of an otherwise just another Motown one hit wonder. (ok the Miracles sang more than that. Be quiet, music snob. ) Their song “Beat Health” is really tribal yet resembles Cat Power, or at least Cat wishes. They have so much more to their sound, its crazy. I’m blown away by their cheeky lyrics and percussions, guitars, etc. Go see them at the Someday Lounge on March 7th with the following band (Xiu Xiu). I may have to as well for $8.00…
“No Friends Oh! ” from Xiu Xiu's “Women As Lovers”. This band has been experimenting with instruments and sounds since the year 2000. They strike the same chord as Pulp does for me, with that dark deep seductive voice. That Jarvis Cocker (lead singer of Pulp) always knows my buttons. Back to Xiu Xiu, they are a one of a kind indie-punk group San Jose. They seem to be more like they should be from a tiny rainy village in the U.K. They like to cover the Smiths and are influenced by the Cure and Joy Division. I think they were influenced by Pulp and don’t know it. That’s what I think. Jarvis got into their brains and meddled with their artistic cells, manipulating them into speaking in a baritone voice during the song. You should check out their “Kitten Revolution” song as well. Snap.
”Ready for the Floor” Hot Chip: (import single). You too will be ready for the floor when hearing this hit single by the one and only Hot Chip. I am enthralled by this band. I don’t know why. Maybe it’s because of their name, maybe its cuz we aren’t as obsessed with them as Americans as those hip Brits. I really don’t know. Go see them at the Crystal on the 23rd of April before they become untouchable. Trust me on this one. (p.s. they release a new album next blogggg… wooo hooo)
“The Bob Song” from Willie Nelson’s new album “Moment of Forever”. Willie covers some choice artists on this new record of his, from Kenny Chesney to Dave Matthews. The Bob Song is a cute little diddy that some guy named “Big Kenny” wrote., who is part of the Big and Rich duo (the BIG part…). Listening to their version its not a great song… but somehow Willie turns into a folky rant about a drunk named B-O-B. Fantastic cover, Nr Nelson. Keep up with the Bio-Willie fuel, the world will catch on in due course.
“Send me an Angel” from Dirty On Purpose’s new “Like Bees” EP. Apparently this song was on an episode of Australia’s Real Life. Shit, I don’t even watch the American version, so I had no idea. I’m noticing that a lot of bands get launched careers from Laguna Beach or Grey’s Anatomy, or likewise. I’d like to point out that Dawson’s Creek started that whole deal. Word. On purpose or not, this band is magnificent, even if they ARE known for being shoe gazers…
“Hearts of Crows” from the Radar Bros. new cd “Auditorium”. Ok, so if you thought that “shoe gazers” was a weird category, try “sadcore”. I am not lying here. The Radar Bros. are exactly that. Sadcore. I love it love it love it. I even HEART them. Oh no I didn’t!! These boys are from LA, but the fast pace of that city doesn’t show in their music. You would think they were from Boyden, Iowa or Blandville, West Virginia (real places, BTW)) instead. The mellow riffs and sleepy steel guitar clears the smog of the LA skies and transports you to the country, man. Pass the doobie, radar bro.
“In the Morning” from Quinn Walker’s new album “Lion Land / Laughter’s An Asshole”. Ok so he’s “alternative” but I’d stick him in the WTF genre, cuz that was my first thought. This choice song isn’t so weird, but the others (“Porcupine”, “Through the Skull of a Goat”, or “Warm in the Sun/Worn in the Sun”, take your pick.). He likes to sing in his falsetto, with sounds I can only describe as coming from a synthesizer… (moog?). His MySpace is really disturbing, as well as the cover art of the record. In the beginning I thought his music was like the drum circle at the country fair, but it’s really not. He likes to experiment too much, and I am pretty sure in all aspect of that word… Don’t think I will be downloading any of Quinn’s music after seeing this picture (at your own risk) on his page but I comment him for being… errr… original. !!! Ick.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
New Music Tuesday January 22nd!
January 22nd, 2008
Good week for music, I must say!
“Guessing Game” from Lisa Loeb’s new album “The Purple Tape”. It’s pretty cute, actually. It makes you want to find your old Lisa albums and stick them in the player, if you haven’t already sold them. I did. Damn. Elise? Can I borrow your Lisa albums??? Please?????? Crap – you didn’t sell them too, did you?? It’s nice to hear Lisa Loeb again.
“New York” from Cat Power's second covers album, “Jukebox”. We all love Cat’s covers. You want to get under the covers and listen real close. Cat’s brilliant. New York is magnificent. It’s exactly the cover I would have picked and the style I would do. I couldn’t wait to hear this cd, and it’s finally out. Bravo! P.S. I downloaded the whole album today. Yippie!
“Daddy Needs a Drink” from Drive-By Truckers new album “Brighter Than Creation's Dark”. Yeah this is definitely hokey and country and all that jazz, but these guys aren’t total western-wear here. They have rock and roll in their blood, just like your mom. Tier Crystal Meth song is a 180 to this “drunk daddy” song. The Drive By Truckers are very diverse, which is one of my favorite qualities in a band. Come to find out, I have them on my iPod. Who woulda thunk. Go see them this Friday at the Roseland.
“ I Never Want to Go Home” from the Whigs new crazy-sick album “Mission Control”. Ok I’m borrowing some Deeker lingo here, but it really is astounding. Sometimes an album will inspire me to have a good day, and I think that is this albums, errr… ‘mission’. My head gets lifted and my lips turn back into the smile they forgot how to create. These days I really don’t want to go home, I don’t want to face the life problems 2007 leftover on my plate. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, right? I’m crazy about the craft these boys distributed on this newly coveted album I will have to purchase soon.
“I want it all” from the Whitsundays' self-titled debut, “Whitsundays”. They have a witty way of the flow of their songs. I really like the music in “Already Gone” as well. It’s like the old Ennio Morricone music from the Westerns (ala ‘A Fist full of Dollars’ etc). I will be keeping my eye on them. This is only their debut – what will they have come up with in time? Did I mention they are witty? ? On their ‘sounds like’ section of their site on myspace, they claim “a soccer match in '67 between the kinks and the zombies using syd barrett as the ball.”. That’s funny shit there.
“Drop-out” from Times New Viking's news album “Rip It Off” . Yeah this song kicks. Third album since 2005. Not much can be said concerning these boys (?) via the internet except that they are influenced by “shark fucks, kickin' it, otherworldly disorder”. On that note, this a total spring break record, if I ever celebrated that holiday…
“Skeleton Man” from Evangelicals' “The Evening Descends” album. These indie-rock newbies are pretty good, actually, in spite of being from Norman, Oklahoma. This is, in fact, their second album since 2006, and it’s radical. You won’t be slipping this in the player for nap time. You will, however, be tossing it onto your new workout mix for February. Yeah, I’m not getting on the bike these days either… but this may encourage me to walk the 20 minutes to work tomorrow while bobbing my head to the fanatical Evangelicals.
“Doves Circled the Sky” from Bodies of Water's new record “Ears Will Pop & Eyes Will Blink”. April 3, 2008, you too can experience the wonder that is Bodies of Water on April 5th. They have quite the posse of musicians. I love the old school spaghetti western music intertwined with Mama’s and Papa’s harmonizing in this track. The key here is to not be ready to label this band when you first listen to them. I am totally into them now, but more like a vulture for its prey, not some silly dove circling the sky aimlessly…
“Angels” from Black Mountain's new cd “In the Future”. Oh crap. After weeks and weeks of bad music and crappy Christmas single covers, I get hit with fantastically fresh music all at once. Damn. I went on a site I download these obscure indie songs (50 for $15 a month) and downloaded this and the previous two. These Canadians have mastered brining the 70’s to the 21st Century. Very psychedelic rock star music here. Even thought I’ve been into folk and punk these days, I can find room for the Black Mountains sound in my favorites playlist (aptly titled “Oh Happy Day.” ). They also have preserved the classic 16 minute jam from three to four decades ago that your parents (well not mine) used to trip out to.
“Who were you thinking of” from Biirdie's new album “Catherine Avenue”. This is exactly what I have been looking for: cheery, folk-rock with never a chance of being overplayed by the radio for they are from England and we are just not cool enough to be on top of that scene unless they are endorsed by MTV. This song is sassy with it’s accusation of “who you were thinking of when were making love last night?” with the circus accordion circa Peter Paul and Mary (which is ironic since this group is two guys and a girl, although none named Peter, Paul, or Mary.). I can see them fit right with the talent of the Juno soundtrack artists. You should own that album by now, by the way.
“Brooklyn Girl, you’re Gonna be my Bride” from Barton Carroll's “The Lost One” album. Even though this guy seems stalker-ish resembling that of The Police’s “Every breath you take”, you want him to find this girl and marry her. Call me gullible, call me a romantic (far from it), or call me Sally, but Barton portrays himself to be a nice, normal guy - unlike the “I’ll be watching you” bull shit (but love Sting anyhow). His steel guitar work is stunning, and his voice relaxing your senses in hopes that Spring is around the corner. Seeing that it is below 40 in Minnesota today I think we’ve got a few more months before we’ll hear the birds chirping in the blue skies above.
“Baby Ate my Eightball” from Super Furry Animals' new cd “Hey Venus!”. You have been able to download it from iTunes since August, but the actual album is released this week (or rather the week this review was supposed to be submitted. shut up). So for those of us that buy the real thing and not the high-tech version, you can now purchase at your local record store. Regarding the ‘eightball’, my first thought would have been the game of pool. Now that my boyfriend runs a clean a sober housing that he started, my mind goes to that of cocaine and other drugs. Being one who hasn’t (really) partook in anything illegal, I don’t know (exactly) what an eightball consists of, but I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t want any baby to eat one. All in all I really like this album. Each track flows into the next with ease and charm, blasting you with “The Gateway song” straight up - and ending with “Let the wolves howl at the moon”. Listening to the first and last track, you wouldn’t even guess they were from the same album or band. Playing the album as it was arranged like a piece of art you realize that these guys ain’t no dummies, regardless of impression their juvenile name gives you.
“I Dream of Marie Antoinette” from Love in October'’s new album “Pontus, The Devil, And Me.” I hate to be the party pooper here, but I’m not feeling the love of October that others are harboring. My ears don’t hear anything special about their tracks, lyrics, composition… with the exception of this song and “Viva la Revolución” . Perhaps the latter outshines the first by an inch, but I like the title of the chosen a bit more. It’s all in the name. Won’t be downloading this today, but I will keep it in the folder of “Is it just me that doesn’t believe the hype of this band or am I having a bad day?” for now.
“Deep this time” from Moe’s new album “Sticks and Stones”. I can see why my brother-in-law likes this band so much after listening to the teasers on iTunes. Just may have to sneak up on him (Le ) the next time Moe play at the Crystal. Honestly, I had a hard time picking the song to grace my list. Each track is potentially a hit for me. Unfortunately for all the true moe. fans out there, the Rolling Stone Magazine gave the album a fantastic review and nearly four stars so they may have a harder time hounding their favorite band. Sorry folks, but someone was bound to notice their talent!
“Freckles” from Natasha Bedingfield’s sophomore release “Pocketful of Sunshine”. It’s a cute song, and NOT because I have freckles everywhere (yep there too). Natasha is a very talented young lady. I loved her first album, no thanks to the radio killing my favorite tracks. Seeing that she was releasing a second album I was interested in hearing what vibe it would have. She performed on the Today Show with her song “Pocketful of Sunshine” and it was sweet. Unique and creative, not very many can touch her artistic ability to write and deliver music. She isn’t syrup sweet (Hilary Duff) yet buoyant enough to keep you going. Admittedly her hit “I love you I love you I love you” was a bit over the top, but the video was so cute that I forgave her. Simply put she is a happy person with a good life and she wants to share that with others. iTunes displays artists playlists weekly, and Natasha’s shows that she is a well rounded artist influenced by everyone from Frou Frou, Joni Mitchell, and Lauryn Hill. When one picks the obvious you see how one dimensional they really are. Ms Bedingfield has taste, and her music proves it: She loves freckles! Yay!
“Goodbye Daughters of the Revolution” the new single from The Black Crowes. Next album due March 4th (around the corner!) called “Warpaint”. Serious blues and hard rock emerge from these rockstars, first record since 1999. Seems like Chris is over Kate leaving him for another man (which didn’t last so was it worth it Kate? Chris is HUGE and it’s thanks to you and your adulterous self that people like me are interested in hearing their new music.). Right on, Chris. You come out smelling like a rose (or similar) and Kate released a really bad movie this month. Fool (‘s Gold), Kate!!! Ah heck, I like her anyway.
“Miss Magnolia” from Matt Costa’s second album “Unfamiliar Faces”. My dear friend Elise shared Matt’s talent with me, of which I am grateful. Matt is half indie blues, half slam poetry, which really puts him smack in Veneta, Oregon. I’m pissed I am missing the fair this year due to a wedding I am required to go to. The bright side of the coin is that the wedding is in France and it’s my great friend Kendra. I will have to create my own country fair in Antrain, France. Perhaps I will pack my glittery horns and tie-die wings in honor of Matt’s new remarkable album…
Good week for music, I must say!
“Guessing Game” from Lisa Loeb’s new album “The Purple Tape”. It’s pretty cute, actually. It makes you want to find your old Lisa albums and stick them in the player, if you haven’t already sold them. I did. Damn. Elise? Can I borrow your Lisa albums??? Please?????? Crap – you didn’t sell them too, did you?? It’s nice to hear Lisa Loeb again.
“New York” from Cat Power's second covers album, “Jukebox”. We all love Cat’s covers. You want to get under the covers and listen real close. Cat’s brilliant. New York is magnificent. It’s exactly the cover I would have picked and the style I would do. I couldn’t wait to hear this cd, and it’s finally out. Bravo! P.S. I downloaded the whole album today. Yippie!
“Daddy Needs a Drink” from Drive-By Truckers new album “Brighter Than Creation's Dark”. Yeah this is definitely hokey and country and all that jazz, but these guys aren’t total western-wear here. They have rock and roll in their blood, just like your mom. Tier Crystal Meth song is a 180 to this “drunk daddy” song. The Drive By Truckers are very diverse, which is one of my favorite qualities in a band. Come to find out, I have them on my iPod. Who woulda thunk. Go see them this Friday at the Roseland.
“ I Never Want to Go Home” from the Whigs new crazy-sick album “Mission Control”. Ok I’m borrowing some Deeker lingo here, but it really is astounding. Sometimes an album will inspire me to have a good day, and I think that is this albums, errr… ‘mission’. My head gets lifted and my lips turn back into the smile they forgot how to create. These days I really don’t want to go home, I don’t want to face the life problems 2007 leftover on my plate. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, right? I’m crazy about the craft these boys distributed on this newly coveted album I will have to purchase soon.
“I want it all” from the Whitsundays' self-titled debut, “Whitsundays”. They have a witty way of the flow of their songs. I really like the music in “Already Gone” as well. It’s like the old Ennio Morricone music from the Westerns (ala ‘A Fist full of Dollars’ etc). I will be keeping my eye on them. This is only their debut – what will they have come up with in time? Did I mention they are witty? ? On their ‘sounds like’ section of their site on myspace, they claim “a soccer match in '67 between the kinks and the zombies using syd barrett as the ball.”. That’s funny shit there.
“Drop-out” from Times New Viking's news album “Rip It Off” . Yeah this song kicks. Third album since 2005. Not much can be said concerning these boys (?) via the internet except that they are influenced by “shark fucks, kickin' it, otherworldly disorder”. On that note, this a total spring break record, if I ever celebrated that holiday…
“Skeleton Man” from Evangelicals' “The Evening Descends” album. These indie-rock newbies are pretty good, actually, in spite of being from Norman, Oklahoma. This is, in fact, their second album since 2006, and it’s radical. You won’t be slipping this in the player for nap time. You will, however, be tossing it onto your new workout mix for February. Yeah, I’m not getting on the bike these days either… but this may encourage me to walk the 20 minutes to work tomorrow while bobbing my head to the fanatical Evangelicals.
“Doves Circled the Sky” from Bodies of Water's new record “Ears Will Pop & Eyes Will Blink”. April 3, 2008, you too can experience the wonder that is Bodies of Water on April 5th. They have quite the posse of musicians. I love the old school spaghetti western music intertwined with Mama’s and Papa’s harmonizing in this track. The key here is to not be ready to label this band when you first listen to them. I am totally into them now, but more like a vulture for its prey, not some silly dove circling the sky aimlessly…
“Angels” from Black Mountain's new cd “In the Future”. Oh crap. After weeks and weeks of bad music and crappy Christmas single covers, I get hit with fantastically fresh music all at once. Damn. I went on a site I download these obscure indie songs (50 for $15 a month) and downloaded this and the previous two. These Canadians have mastered brining the 70’s to the 21st Century. Very psychedelic rock star music here. Even thought I’ve been into folk and punk these days, I can find room for the Black Mountains sound in my favorites playlist (aptly titled “Oh Happy Day.” ). They also have preserved the classic 16 minute jam from three to four decades ago that your parents (well not mine) used to trip out to.
“Who were you thinking of” from Biirdie's new album “Catherine Avenue”. This is exactly what I have been looking for: cheery, folk-rock with never a chance of being overplayed by the radio for they are from England and we are just not cool enough to be on top of that scene unless they are endorsed by MTV. This song is sassy with it’s accusation of “who you were thinking of when were making love last night?” with the circus accordion circa Peter Paul and Mary (which is ironic since this group is two guys and a girl, although none named Peter, Paul, or Mary.). I can see them fit right with the talent of the Juno soundtrack artists. You should own that album by now, by the way.
“Brooklyn Girl, you’re Gonna be my Bride” from Barton Carroll's “The Lost One” album. Even though this guy seems stalker-ish resembling that of The Police’s “Every breath you take”, you want him to find this girl and marry her. Call me gullible, call me a romantic (far from it), or call me Sally, but Barton portrays himself to be a nice, normal guy - unlike the “I’ll be watching you” bull shit (but love Sting anyhow). His steel guitar work is stunning, and his voice relaxing your senses in hopes that Spring is around the corner. Seeing that it is below 40 in Minnesota today I think we’ve got a few more months before we’ll hear the birds chirping in the blue skies above.
“Baby Ate my Eightball” from Super Furry Animals' new cd “Hey Venus!”. You have been able to download it from iTunes since August, but the actual album is released this week (or rather the week this review was supposed to be submitted. shut up). So for those of us that buy the real thing and not the high-tech version, you can now purchase at your local record store. Regarding the ‘eightball’, my first thought would have been the game of pool. Now that my boyfriend runs a clean a sober housing that he started, my mind goes to that of cocaine and other drugs. Being one who hasn’t (really) partook in anything illegal, I don’t know (exactly) what an eightball consists of, but I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t want any baby to eat one. All in all I really like this album. Each track flows into the next with ease and charm, blasting you with “The Gateway song” straight up - and ending with “Let the wolves howl at the moon”. Listening to the first and last track, you wouldn’t even guess they were from the same album or band. Playing the album as it was arranged like a piece of art you realize that these guys ain’t no dummies, regardless of impression their juvenile name gives you.
“I Dream of Marie Antoinette” from Love in October'’s new album “Pontus, The Devil, And Me.” I hate to be the party pooper here, but I’m not feeling the love of October that others are harboring. My ears don’t hear anything special about their tracks, lyrics, composition… with the exception of this song and “Viva la Revolución” . Perhaps the latter outshines the first by an inch, but I like the title of the chosen a bit more. It’s all in the name. Won’t be downloading this today, but I will keep it in the folder of “Is it just me that doesn’t believe the hype of this band or am I having a bad day?” for now.
“Deep this time” from Moe’s new album “Sticks and Stones”. I can see why my brother-in-law likes this band so much after listening to the teasers on iTunes. Just may have to sneak up on him (Le ) the next time Moe play at the Crystal. Honestly, I had a hard time picking the song to grace my list. Each track is potentially a hit for me. Unfortunately for all the true moe. fans out there, the Rolling Stone Magazine gave the album a fantastic review and nearly four stars so they may have a harder time hounding their favorite band. Sorry folks, but someone was bound to notice their talent!
“Freckles” from Natasha Bedingfield’s sophomore release “Pocketful of Sunshine”. It’s a cute song, and NOT because I have freckles everywhere (yep there too). Natasha is a very talented young lady. I loved her first album, no thanks to the radio killing my favorite tracks. Seeing that she was releasing a second album I was interested in hearing what vibe it would have. She performed on the Today Show with her song “Pocketful of Sunshine” and it was sweet. Unique and creative, not very many can touch her artistic ability to write and deliver music. She isn’t syrup sweet (Hilary Duff) yet buoyant enough to keep you going. Admittedly her hit “I love you I love you I love you” was a bit over the top, but the video was so cute that I forgave her. Simply put she is a happy person with a good life and she wants to share that with others. iTunes displays artists playlists weekly, and Natasha’s shows that she is a well rounded artist influenced by everyone from Frou Frou, Joni Mitchell, and Lauryn Hill. When one picks the obvious you see how one dimensional they really are. Ms Bedingfield has taste, and her music proves it: She loves freckles! Yay!
“Goodbye Daughters of the Revolution” the new single from The Black Crowes. Next album due March 4th (around the corner!) called “Warpaint”. Serious blues and hard rock emerge from these rockstars, first record since 1999. Seems like Chris is over Kate leaving him for another man (which didn’t last so was it worth it Kate? Chris is HUGE and it’s thanks to you and your adulterous self that people like me are interested in hearing their new music.). Right on, Chris. You come out smelling like a rose (or similar) and Kate released a really bad movie this month. Fool (‘s Gold), Kate!!! Ah heck, I like her anyway.
“Miss Magnolia” from Matt Costa’s second album “Unfamiliar Faces”. My dear friend Elise shared Matt’s talent with me, of which I am grateful. Matt is half indie blues, half slam poetry, which really puts him smack in Veneta, Oregon. I’m pissed I am missing the fair this year due to a wedding I am required to go to. The bright side of the coin is that the wedding is in France and it’s my great friend Kendra. I will have to create my own country fair in Antrain, France. Perhaps I will pack my glittery horns and tie-die wings in honor of Matt’s new remarkable album…
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
New Music Tuesday January 15th...
“Stay in the lines” from Chino XL & Playalitical’s new album “Something Sacred”. Ok this is yet again another hip hop artist I can’t relate to. The lyrics are funny though, so they get a coveted spot on my list. This wigger ain’t buying it, tho. Word. A for Effort, kids.
“I Put a Spell on You” from Eels’s new collection of songs “Useless Trinkets B-Sides (Soundtracks, Rarities, and Unreleased)”. When performed correctly, this song is one of my favorites. The Eels don’t let me down one bit. It sounds like an angry Lenny Kravitz song, if Lenny could squeeze the energy as high as the Eels do. They’re electric. Plus they are playing at the Wonder Ballroom on April 13th. I promise you will like them if you come with me!
“Get Ur Freak On” from Eels new release “Vol. 1 Meet the Eels: Essentials”. Ok, the Eels are effin cool. I may have to seek out all their music. Currently I am a loser and have only one song of theirs. Considering they have 12 albums to their name, I stink to high heaven as a new found fan. I’m heading to EM and getting me some Eel.
“Can Anybody Hear Me?” from Kottonmouth Kings’s new collection of hits “Greatest Highs”. Well most of their songs are about smoking weed. This song is on of two that haven’t been previously released from this album, not that I would have known the difference. I guess the Kottonmouth Kings are ok. They are quirky and unusual, which is always an A+ in my mind. I just don’t know if they cut it. My favorite part about these kings? They are described as “rapcore”. Irresistibly insane.
“Old Fools” from Magnetic Fields new album “Distortion”. Have you ever seen a movie that has been raved on about by friend and critics alike, but by the time you rent it and watch it it’s disappointing because of the hype? Well, all I have heard this month is (from RS mag.): “It rocks, in this case a meaningful, temporary departure. Its unmelded sonic gestalt suits its thematic disquiet. It's Stephin Merritt's second-best album, which is saying a great deal.” …giving it 4 out of 5 stars!! It’s a really out there for my brain right now. Complex lyrics and story lines and soundsystems used…. I can’t keep up. Perhaps my data base is too full to comprehend this right now, but I will put it on the “too be reviewed for later use” shelf. Maybe I’ll be ready for it in the Spring.
“Gone are the Days” from Ringo Starr’s new album “Liverpool 8”. It’s a sweet ex-Beatles album. I actually like it way better that Paul’s new stuff. I didn’t know I was a fan of Ringo!! I have always been fond of his name, growing up. Heard they just re-released the film “Help!” that’s a deluxe edition box set of 2 DVD’s. Right on. The only Beatle left who needs help is Paul, now. (cuz of his stupid ex Heather Mills – eeeeewww).
“The Eye of the Tiger” from the Soundtrack to the movie “Persepolis”. The movie is French, it’s Black and White, it’s Animated, and it’s about a young girl who rebels against the ways of the Islamic powers taking over her country of Iran. I can’t wait to see it this week. ;) Apparently at the peak of the movie this song is playing as she enters the streets of Iran after seeing the aftermath of what she left her country in.
“Long Dream” from Tyler Ramsey’s new album, “A Long Dream About Swimming Across the Sea”. It is the first artist I would compare to Neil Young in a long time. His voice and poetry are quite similar, but you don’t get the same authentic feel you get from Young Neil. I’m totally into Tyler now, since I’ve been introduced to his music this new music release week. Folk music is my thing these days. Well, folk and punk. That doesn’t really flow, does it? Especially when I throw in French Pop and old school Jazz like Coltrane. Oh well, my taste will ever be evolving.
“Hey Katie” from Josh Kelley’s new album “Special Company”. It’s nothing that special coming from Josh Kelley, but it’s different enough that it might spark interest in the music industry. I think I like his music, maybe it’s a little to one dimensional. “Hey Katie” is sweet enough, but I think I’m more impressed with the band and not the storyline.
“To Know Him is to Love Him” from Amy Winehouse’s “Back in Black B-Sides” album. This is a beautiful song. I used to love this song when I was little. Hearing Amy’s version isn’t disappointing. She brings the feeling and soul into the song that some covers of it lack. Well done Amy! All the b-side songs are great choices. “Some Unholy War” is truly moving, and would be my first pick if I wasn’t already partial to the chosen song.
“I Built the Sea” from The Battle of Land and Sea’s new album “the Battle of Land and Sea”. They are from Portland!!!! Yay!!!! Gotta love the local. I feel like this band really has a sound of their own …pretty mellow and sexy all at once. I’d love to download and walk in the rain up in Forest Park on Wildwood trail. It would be lovely and transcending…
“Starlett Johansson” from The Teenagers new album “Reality Check”. Love it. This band totally cracks me up. I don’t know if they mean to be so hilarious, those Brits can give us Yanks the wrong impression. We missed their hot spot American tour this month… unless you live in LA, NY, or likewise, they didn’t come to you. Perhaps they will in the future. I would go, as long as it isn’t full of ‘teenagers’…
“I Put a Spell on You” from Eels’s new collection of songs “Useless Trinkets B-Sides (Soundtracks, Rarities, and Unreleased)”. When performed correctly, this song is one of my favorites. The Eels don’t let me down one bit. It sounds like an angry Lenny Kravitz song, if Lenny could squeeze the energy as high as the Eels do. They’re electric. Plus they are playing at the Wonder Ballroom on April 13th. I promise you will like them if you come with me!
“Get Ur Freak On” from Eels new release “Vol. 1 Meet the Eels: Essentials”. Ok, the Eels are effin cool. I may have to seek out all their music. Currently I am a loser and have only one song of theirs. Considering they have 12 albums to their name, I stink to high heaven as a new found fan. I’m heading to EM and getting me some Eel.
“Can Anybody Hear Me?” from Kottonmouth Kings’s new collection of hits “Greatest Highs”. Well most of their songs are about smoking weed. This song is on of two that haven’t been previously released from this album, not that I would have known the difference. I guess the Kottonmouth Kings are ok. They are quirky and unusual, which is always an A+ in my mind. I just don’t know if they cut it. My favorite part about these kings? They are described as “rapcore”. Irresistibly insane.
“Old Fools” from Magnetic Fields new album “Distortion”. Have you ever seen a movie that has been raved on about by friend and critics alike, but by the time you rent it and watch it it’s disappointing because of the hype? Well, all I have heard this month is (from RS mag.): “It rocks, in this case a meaningful, temporary departure. Its unmelded sonic gestalt suits its thematic disquiet. It's Stephin Merritt's second-best album, which is saying a great deal.” …giving it 4 out of 5 stars!! It’s a really out there for my brain right now. Complex lyrics and story lines and soundsystems used…. I can’t keep up. Perhaps my data base is too full to comprehend this right now, but I will put it on the “too be reviewed for later use” shelf. Maybe I’ll be ready for it in the Spring.
“Gone are the Days” from Ringo Starr’s new album “Liverpool 8”. It’s a sweet ex-Beatles album. I actually like it way better that Paul’s new stuff. I didn’t know I was a fan of Ringo!! I have always been fond of his name, growing up. Heard they just re-released the film “Help!” that’s a deluxe edition box set of 2 DVD’s. Right on. The only Beatle left who needs help is Paul, now. (cuz of his stupid ex Heather Mills – eeeeewww).
“The Eye of the Tiger” from the Soundtrack to the movie “Persepolis”. The movie is French, it’s Black and White, it’s Animated, and it’s about a young girl who rebels against the ways of the Islamic powers taking over her country of Iran. I can’t wait to see it this week. ;) Apparently at the peak of the movie this song is playing as she enters the streets of Iran after seeing the aftermath of what she left her country in.
“Long Dream” from Tyler Ramsey’s new album, “A Long Dream About Swimming Across the Sea”. It is the first artist I would compare to Neil Young in a long time. His voice and poetry are quite similar, but you don’t get the same authentic feel you get from Young Neil. I’m totally into Tyler now, since I’ve been introduced to his music this new music release week. Folk music is my thing these days. Well, folk and punk. That doesn’t really flow, does it? Especially when I throw in French Pop and old school Jazz like Coltrane. Oh well, my taste will ever be evolving.
“Hey Katie” from Josh Kelley’s new album “Special Company”. It’s nothing that special coming from Josh Kelley, but it’s different enough that it might spark interest in the music industry. I think I like his music, maybe it’s a little to one dimensional. “Hey Katie” is sweet enough, but I think I’m more impressed with the band and not the storyline.
“To Know Him is to Love Him” from Amy Winehouse’s “Back in Black B-Sides” album. This is a beautiful song. I used to love this song when I was little. Hearing Amy’s version isn’t disappointing. She brings the feeling and soul into the song that some covers of it lack. Well done Amy! All the b-side songs are great choices. “Some Unholy War” is truly moving, and would be my first pick if I wasn’t already partial to the chosen song.
“I Built the Sea” from The Battle of Land and Sea’s new album “the Battle of Land and Sea”. They are from Portland!!!! Yay!!!! Gotta love the local. I feel like this band really has a sound of their own …pretty mellow and sexy all at once. I’d love to download and walk in the rain up in Forest Park on Wildwood trail. It would be lovely and transcending…
“Starlett Johansson” from The Teenagers new album “Reality Check”. Love it. This band totally cracks me up. I don’t know if they mean to be so hilarious, those Brits can give us Yanks the wrong impression. We missed their hot spot American tour this month… unless you live in LA, NY, or likewise, they didn’t come to you. Perhaps they will in the future. I would go, as long as it isn’t full of ‘teenagers’…
Friday, January 25, 2008
New Music Tuesday January 8th
lovely music, for little there was released.
“Merry Happy” from Kate Nash’s new fan-tabulous album “Made of Bricks”. Very Lily Allen-ish music and lyrics. Not all the record is like Ms. Allen though. If I’d only hear this on the radio and didn’t know it was Kate, I would’ve said “Lily has a new single!”. “Made of Bricks” has been well received by the fans and critic alike. Guess we will see if she ends up being a social disaster like the rest of her mates. Hopefully not. Also, I was happy to see that someone else uses “Merry” in terms other than followed with Christmas, besides me. Thanks, Kate !!
“My Blakean Year” from Patti Smith’s iTunes Original album… which I hate it when they do this but this includes commentary from Patti which is insightful and interesting. This song was originally released in 2004. I’d also have to choose “Gloria” which is off her album “Horses”. Lovely album, Horses… Listening to the reasons why she wrote the songs etc is fantastic. I probably won’t be downloading this though, cuz I have the songs already and the commentary only comes with the full album purchase. Damn.
“The Girl you lost to cocaine” from Sia’s new album “Some People have Real Problems. I love the cover of Sia’s album. Her song “Electric Bird” is beautiful. I will be buying this album pronto. Seriously. Have to. Buy it. Now. She’s considered Pop, which is ok. I think I will have to come up with better genre names than Pop, Rock, Jazz, and Alternative. You can’t say Anne Murray is the same type as Britney Spears or the Beach Boys or Carrie Underwood or Eddie Vedder… which are all considered pop. Huh?
This Aussie songstress ranges from jazzy pop to altra-indie, backed up with the piano and strings. Now go support your local Starbucks and purchase this dammmit.
“Run it Back Again” Corbin Bleu’s new single. I’m gonna throw back up again in a minute here – to be honest a guy named Corbin doesn’t stand a chance in this cruel cruel world. His pre-pubescent fro and “I’m grabbin my nuts” high voice doesn’t really help his cause. Who said that these kids from HS Musical could release singles?? I don’t remember Jeff Conaway and Stockard Channing and Didi Conn releasing singles and albums left and right after Grease was released. Maybe that is because they were like 30 pretending to be 18… hmmm. My point is I can’t stand these kids from the movie. None of them have talent and none of them are original. They are playing the character that was written by someone else, for real life. For reals, people. Tastey tidbit: Bee Gee’s Barry Gibb wrote the song “Grease” and Frankie Valli performed it for the soundtrack. Cool.
“Jesus in the Temple” from Marah’s new album “Angels of Destruction”. I really don’t know Marah. I wonder if Dave Bielanko (lead singer) named the band after one of the locations which the Torah identifies as having been travelled through by the Israelites, during the Exodus…. Could be. I never listened to Marah, yet the band has been in business since ’93. My bad. I think I always associaed them with those chicks like Mya, Monica, Missy, Mariah, Melanie C…. see what I’m saying??? Dave should have some up with something less feminine. So I’m just venting cuz I wish I’d heard them earlier… He’s a lot like Steve Earl. I really love the bands sound. I have to download this song. It might be perfect for my trip slideshow soundtrack. Fantastic.
p.s. The genre they fall into is “alternative country” and “Garage Rock”. That’s better than simply “pop”, now, isn’t???
“Where’s the Music” by Medeski, Martin, and Wood… from their new album “Let’s go Everywhere”. This song is like part “I am the Lion” (neil diamond) and “The Guitar” (they might be giants). This band rocks my socks. They take children like songs and put spontaneous jazz pink martini style with kids speaking or yelling in the background. They all yell “Where’s the music”!!!!!!!! ????????? in this song.
Drastic Fantastic. ;)
“Merry Happy” from Kate Nash’s new fan-tabulous album “Made of Bricks”. Very Lily Allen-ish music and lyrics. Not all the record is like Ms. Allen though. If I’d only hear this on the radio and didn’t know it was Kate, I would’ve said “Lily has a new single!”. “Made of Bricks” has been well received by the fans and critic alike. Guess we will see if she ends up being a social disaster like the rest of her mates. Hopefully not. Also, I was happy to see that someone else uses “Merry” in terms other than followed with Christmas, besides me. Thanks, Kate !!
“My Blakean Year” from Patti Smith’s iTunes Original album… which I hate it when they do this but this includes commentary from Patti which is insightful and interesting. This song was originally released in 2004. I’d also have to choose “Gloria” which is off her album “Horses”. Lovely album, Horses… Listening to the reasons why she wrote the songs etc is fantastic. I probably won’t be downloading this though, cuz I have the songs already and the commentary only comes with the full album purchase. Damn.
“The Girl you lost to cocaine” from Sia’s new album “Some People have Real Problems. I love the cover of Sia’s album. Her song “Electric Bird” is beautiful. I will be buying this album pronto. Seriously. Have to. Buy it. Now. She’s considered Pop, which is ok. I think I will have to come up with better genre names than Pop, Rock, Jazz, and Alternative. You can’t say Anne Murray is the same type as Britney Spears or the Beach Boys or Carrie Underwood or Eddie Vedder… which are all considered pop. Huh?
This Aussie songstress ranges from jazzy pop to altra-indie, backed up with the piano and strings. Now go support your local Starbucks and purchase this dammmit.
“Run it Back Again” Corbin Bleu’s new single. I’m gonna throw back up again in a minute here – to be honest a guy named Corbin doesn’t stand a chance in this cruel cruel world. His pre-pubescent fro and “I’m grabbin my nuts” high voice doesn’t really help his cause. Who said that these kids from HS Musical could release singles?? I don’t remember Jeff Conaway and Stockard Channing and Didi Conn releasing singles and albums left and right after Grease was released. Maybe that is because they were like 30 pretending to be 18… hmmm. My point is I can’t stand these kids from the movie. None of them have talent and none of them are original. They are playing the character that was written by someone else, for real life. For reals, people. Tastey tidbit: Bee Gee’s Barry Gibb wrote the song “Grease” and Frankie Valli performed it for the soundtrack. Cool.
“Jesus in the Temple” from Marah’s new album “Angels of Destruction”. I really don’t know Marah. I wonder if Dave Bielanko (lead singer) named the band after one of the locations which the Torah identifies as having been travelled through by the Israelites, during the Exodus…. Could be. I never listened to Marah, yet the band has been in business since ’93. My bad. I think I always associaed them with those chicks like Mya, Monica, Missy, Mariah, Melanie C…. see what I’m saying??? Dave should have some up with something less feminine. So I’m just venting cuz I wish I’d heard them earlier… He’s a lot like Steve Earl. I really love the bands sound. I have to download this song. It might be perfect for my trip slideshow soundtrack. Fantastic.
p.s. The genre they fall into is “alternative country” and “Garage Rock”. That’s better than simply “pop”, now, isn’t???
“Where’s the Music” by Medeski, Martin, and Wood… from their new album “Let’s go Everywhere”. This song is like part “I am the Lion” (neil diamond) and “The Guitar” (they might be giants). This band rocks my socks. They take children like songs and put spontaneous jazz pink martini style with kids speaking or yelling in the background. They all yell “Where’s the music”!!!!!!!! ????????? in this song.
Drastic Fantastic. ;)
Thursday, January 24, 2008
New Music December 25th and January 1st
New Music December 25th and January 1st
Short AND Sweet, my friends. And this is combining TWO weeks because both Tuesdays fell on HOLIDAYS.
“Reckoner” from of Radiohead's latest album, “In Rainbows”. I downloaded this months ago. Fantastic album. Fantastic band. Fantastic songs. Each one – fantastic. The general public can finally go to their local record store and buy “In Rainbows” for themselves. You could download it from their website since October. You could pay or not pay. The whole album is a masterpiece. Definitely on my top ten albums of 2007. Perhaps a list of those is in the works for you to read. Perhaps all 1 reader out there (thanks, Anne for being my reader) will want to know what this music fiends favorite albums were of last year. So many to choose from. I don’t know if I can put them in order of favorite. We will see. Can I get it done before January 31st? We’ll see! Ha! Challenge!! I love it!
“My Dear Acquaintance ( A Happy New Year)” Regina Spektor’s new single. I first saw Regina on VH1 in her video for “Fidelity” at 7 in the morning, all blurry-eyed and waking up, thinking I needed to remember this gal. She has something different. After, of course, the radio etc overplayed the song but I still liked it cuz I felt like I discovered it on my own and not through the damned radio. Its really a sweet video, all in black white and red (til the end). This song is a nice way to start out the year. I am happy with Regina’s choice of songs, very sweet and pointedly purposeful yet not depressing, ala the lady songwriters of the 90’s (hello Lilith Fair?).
“Declare Independence (Mark Stent Mix)” Bjork’s new EP mix of her ‘hit’ Declare Independence called, if you haven’t already guessed, “Declare Independence – EP”. Normally I ignore these releases for they are redundant and pointless to talk about. They aren’t ‘new’ by any means. However, Bjork is sending a message to all of us scaredy-cat Americans to declare our fucking rights in the land of the free. I actually ordered this cd, and it should be coming soon. I have a sneaking suspicion that I am going to really like this album. “Here Here” to the wonder that is Bjork.
“Love the World you Find” performed by the Flaming Lips from the “Mr. Magnorium’s Wonder Emporium” soundtrack. I thought this movie was supposed to be silly, but this song makes me think it may have a heart after all. I do love Natalie Portman… and the Flaming Lips are blistering… ouch. Could someone maybe go to this movie with me or rent it when it’s on DVD and perhaps we can enjoy a crazy flick together? I’ll bring the Milk Duds (thanks to Melody)…
“Gorgeous” from Idina Menzel’s new single. I don’t like the remixes of this song (The “Gorgeous EP” also was released this week) – they remind me f all the techno-pop songs of ‘98-99 era, like “Unbreak My Heart” drag queen style. There is a time and a place for that shit, and it ain’t on my watch. I chose the single instead of anything off her EP, which in my opinion wasn’t ‘gorgeous’…
“Love TKO” Michael McDonald’s new single. What New Music Tuesday blog would be complete without a review of this former Doobie? Honestly, ever since the 40yr Old Virgin, I have been obsessed with this guy. William can’t stop playing him, and I was pissed to see he wasn’t with the Doobies cuz I got to check them out over the summer. Yeah, and it was my second time seeing them and missing the Mac. This song is a Total Knock Out. Ohhhhh yeaaaaah.
Short AND Sweet, my friends. And this is combining TWO weeks because both Tuesdays fell on HOLIDAYS.
“Reckoner” from of Radiohead's latest album, “In Rainbows”. I downloaded this months ago. Fantastic album. Fantastic band. Fantastic songs. Each one – fantastic. The general public can finally go to their local record store and buy “In Rainbows” for themselves. You could download it from their website since October. You could pay or not pay. The whole album is a masterpiece. Definitely on my top ten albums of 2007. Perhaps a list of those is in the works for you to read. Perhaps all 1 reader out there (thanks, Anne for being my reader) will want to know what this music fiends favorite albums were of last year. So many to choose from. I don’t know if I can put them in order of favorite. We will see. Can I get it done before January 31st? We’ll see! Ha! Challenge!! I love it!
“My Dear Acquaintance ( A Happy New Year)” Regina Spektor’s new single. I first saw Regina on VH1 in her video for “Fidelity” at 7 in the morning, all blurry-eyed and waking up, thinking I needed to remember this gal. She has something different. After, of course, the radio etc overplayed the song but I still liked it cuz I felt like I discovered it on my own and not through the damned radio. Its really a sweet video, all in black white and red (til the end). This song is a nice way to start out the year. I am happy with Regina’s choice of songs, very sweet and pointedly purposeful yet not depressing, ala the lady songwriters of the 90’s (hello Lilith Fair?).
“Declare Independence (Mark Stent Mix)” Bjork’s new EP mix of her ‘hit’ Declare Independence called, if you haven’t already guessed, “Declare Independence – EP”. Normally I ignore these releases for they are redundant and pointless to talk about. They aren’t ‘new’ by any means. However, Bjork is sending a message to all of us scaredy-cat Americans to declare our fucking rights in the land of the free. I actually ordered this cd, and it should be coming soon. I have a sneaking suspicion that I am going to really like this album. “Here Here” to the wonder that is Bjork.
“Love the World you Find” performed by the Flaming Lips from the “Mr. Magnorium’s Wonder Emporium” soundtrack. I thought this movie was supposed to be silly, but this song makes me think it may have a heart after all. I do love Natalie Portman… and the Flaming Lips are blistering… ouch. Could someone maybe go to this movie with me or rent it when it’s on DVD and perhaps we can enjoy a crazy flick together? I’ll bring the Milk Duds (thanks to Melody)…
“Gorgeous” from Idina Menzel’s new single. I don’t like the remixes of this song (The “Gorgeous EP” also was released this week) – they remind me f all the techno-pop songs of ‘98-99 era, like “Unbreak My Heart” drag queen style. There is a time and a place for that shit, and it ain’t on my watch. I chose the single instead of anything off her EP, which in my opinion wasn’t ‘gorgeous’…
“Love TKO” Michael McDonald’s new single. What New Music Tuesday blog would be complete without a review of this former Doobie? Honestly, ever since the 40yr Old Virgin, I have been obsessed with this guy. William can’t stop playing him, and I was pissed to see he wasn’t with the Doobies cuz I got to check them out over the summer. Yeah, and it was my second time seeing them and missing the Mac. This song is a Total Knock Out. Ohhhhh yeaaaaah.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
New Music Tuesday December 18th
All in all not a horrible week for music. Just in time for your stocking Christmas morning. I know, that was SOOO last month.
“All I Want For Christmas” - Joss Stone’s new single. I was hoping a more upbeat song from Joss, but it’s a bit 80s with the sax and the love making R&B intro, like Issak Hayes but not as smooth. Ms Stone is still a favorite in my book. Her style is distinctive and there is no one like her. I will continue to support her but I am soooo done with the shitty holiday single releases. Perhaps if I had completed this review on time (say… three weeks ago) I wouldn’t be so negative about xmas music, but since the holidays weren’t exactly a gas, I am jaded. Oh well.
“Longtime Sunshine”, from the Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo new released album “Alone - The Home Recordings of Rivers Cuomo”. Yet another frontman feeling the need for speed and headin solo. On his own, Rivers doesn’t have the energy that Weezer does as a band. Blech. Kinda a disappointment. He’s no Rob Thomas *wink*wink*….
“Stranded the Line” from Radiohead’s guitarist Jonny Greenwood's score for the film, There Will Be Blood. Mind blowing.. esp. the title song. It’s like the soundtrack to a futuristic remake of “Fantasia” – like the scene where the brooms multiply while Mickey’s mopping and the bucket overflows, flooding the room? This album could totally be played simultaneously and flow.
“Bad Woman” from the Arctic Monkeys new “Teddy Picker” EP. This is the first song from these crazy primates that I would actually seek and download. Does that make me a “Bad Woman” too??? These guys were such the hype last year at this time, and fortunately for them the limelight didn’t blind them. They are still too cool for school, unlike some of the other freshman we were so excited about in January of 07…
“Grown Woman” from Mary J. Blige’s new album “Growing Pains”. So MJ released her new album. This song has more attitude that Mary usually shows us. Usually she Toni Braxtons’s the hell out of her songs with the R & B candle light dinner bull. I like this hit.
“Pretty Women” from “Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street Deluxe - Complete Edition”, performed by Alan Rickman and Johnny Depp. I can’t wait to see this movie. Anything with Alan and Johnny singing, I’m there. Too bad it’s not 3D like Beowolf! Ha!
“Give Up” from Hot Hot Heat “Happiness Ltd.” EP. The EP’s following the album thing seems to be sooo popular. If it weren’t for a brilliant song like “Give Up” I would be complaining here. Since I DO like this EP, and I love Hot Hot Heat, I will accept that they have followed the path of the EP releasing. I’d like to 'give up'. This song doesn’t make me want to though, ironic enough. Thanks Hot Hot Heat. You’re Hot.
“Miss You Love You” from Maroon 5’s new album “The B Collection”. Yes they released an album back in May, and I claimed I didn’t care for them at the time... yet this song surprised me. The whole 'B' album surprised me. If they had released this instead of their album “It won’t be soon before long”, I may have actually considered buying this. I am hesitant, however, for their past has clouded my judgment. You should still give this a try. It’s better than you think.
“Deep Love” from Mel Brooks “Young Frankenstein” , performed by Megan Mullally. Megan almost has the comedic chops to carry on Madeline Kahns legacy in the roll of Elizabeth Benning. She tries sooo hard and I commend her for that. But no one can touch the great Kahn. No one. I think I would see this crazy and obnoxious musical on Broadway. It looks horrible to the average eye, but if you haven’t seen the movie, you won’t understand the appeal. The classic film is one of Mel Brook’s best. Anything with Gene Wilder deserves an A+ from me. You combine Gene, Madeline, and Mel, and I swoooon.
“Shine of Babylon” Sheryl Crow’s new single. This is classic Crow. So happy to have her back. Her Wildflower album wasn’t well received by the critics or fans, and she was only popular cuz she was dating Lance for awhile there… now she is recovering from cancer and adopted a baby. I’m so happy I am writing about her not because of her personal accomplishments today, but because I’m impressed with her new single. Look for her new album, due February 5th. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, you mother fuckers, if it ‘MAKES YOU HAPPY’.
“2001 Spliff Odyssey” from Thievery Corporation “Warning Shots – The Digibox”. Who wouldn’t want to listen to a song named 2001 SPLIFF Odyssey. It screams ‘martini – shaken, not stirred”. You never shake the martini, darling – it bruises the gin. FYI. Anyway, Thievery Corp is on my top ten favorites of 2007ish. Definitely up there anyhow on that list-ish. The ‘DigBox” collection doesn’t have anything unreleased previously, but it does contain a 10 minute interview recorded. I’m in love – they speak of sound modules. YES! Show me your modules, Rob and Eric!
“Small Town Southern Man” Alan Jackson’s new single. Just what you’d expect. Tid bit I heard singing about ‘7 poor people all together, four pretty daughters, little words with loving, and understanding’ in 20 seconds. He has a nice voice, not too twangy. I miss Chattahoochee. I think Alan may be a one hit wonder for me. ‘Way down yonder on a Friday night…we made love by the pale moon light’. Oh no. I still know all the words. Shhhh. Keep that on the down low please. Rufus and Thom would have a fit.
“I Hate You (Big Daddy) performed by John C Reilly from the Walk Hard, the Dewey Cox Story” soundtrack. Who can argue with John C Reilly? He blew me away as Amos in Chicago, cracked me up as Lefty in “A Prairie Home Companion”, and made me jealous as Cal in Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby. His acting chops will deliver him the top award one day, just you wait.
“Clumsy – the Collipark Remix” from Fergie’s new EP – “Clumsy Remix featuring Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em – EP”. I know I know. Over played to the utmost annoying extent, yet I can’t get enough of Clumsy. The first Fergie single that I would voluntarily spin on the dance floor (uh.. if I were a dj. Ha!). I’m so proud of Fergie. Her album has been released for over a year and she is still monopolizing on it, creating new singles and remixes left and right. That’s the way it’s done, girlfriend. Now don’t cry, you are a big girl.
“Ordinary Day” Nick Lachey’s new single. Nick has the charisma of a gnat. Yeah, he’s good looking. And perhaps he IS better off with Vanessa than Jessica. But who really gives a shit? Can the guy sing? Kinda. But his songs a boring and he has no feeling. Plus he does that heavy breathing thing that Jessica does – I think he actually got some singing tip from his ex. Unfortunately they weren’t the right tips to borrow from her. Come to think of it, the only thing Jessica does right is wear low cut tops and short shorts. Hopefully he doesn’t try ‘acting’ next. Yikes.
“Story of an artist” from The Daniel Johnston tribute disc, “The Late Great Daniel Johnston: Discovered Covered” which has been remastered. It’s a 2 disc release that has the originals plus covers with effin all my favorites from 2006-2007 ish era.
Check it: TV on the Radio, Eels, Bright Eyes, Death Cab, Beck, M Ward, and much much more… Bright Eyes version of Daniel’s “Devil Town” is fantastic. “Story of an artist” is covered by M. Ward, whom I can’t get enough of. If you have any of his music, please burn it for me and mail it to me? Thanks.
“All I Want For Christmas” - Joss Stone’s new single. I was hoping a more upbeat song from Joss, but it’s a bit 80s with the sax and the love making R&B intro, like Issak Hayes but not as smooth. Ms Stone is still a favorite in my book. Her style is distinctive and there is no one like her. I will continue to support her but I am soooo done with the shitty holiday single releases. Perhaps if I had completed this review on time (say… three weeks ago) I wouldn’t be so negative about xmas music, but since the holidays weren’t exactly a gas, I am jaded. Oh well.
“Longtime Sunshine”, from the Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo new released album “Alone - The Home Recordings of Rivers Cuomo”. Yet another frontman feeling the need for speed and headin solo. On his own, Rivers doesn’t have the energy that Weezer does as a band. Blech. Kinda a disappointment. He’s no Rob Thomas *wink*wink*….
“Stranded the Line” from Radiohead’s guitarist Jonny Greenwood's score for the film, There Will Be Blood. Mind blowing.. esp. the title song. It’s like the soundtrack to a futuristic remake of “Fantasia” – like the scene where the brooms multiply while Mickey’s mopping and the bucket overflows, flooding the room? This album could totally be played simultaneously and flow.
“Bad Woman” from the Arctic Monkeys new “Teddy Picker” EP. This is the first song from these crazy primates that I would actually seek and download. Does that make me a “Bad Woman” too??? These guys were such the hype last year at this time, and fortunately for them the limelight didn’t blind them. They are still too cool for school, unlike some of the other freshman we were so excited about in January of 07…
“Grown Woman” from Mary J. Blige’s new album “Growing Pains”. So MJ released her new album. This song has more attitude that Mary usually shows us. Usually she Toni Braxtons’s the hell out of her songs with the R & B candle light dinner bull. I like this hit.
“Pretty Women” from “Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street Deluxe - Complete Edition”, performed by Alan Rickman and Johnny Depp. I can’t wait to see this movie. Anything with Alan and Johnny singing, I’m there. Too bad it’s not 3D like Beowolf! Ha!
“Give Up” from Hot Hot Heat “Happiness Ltd.” EP. The EP’s following the album thing seems to be sooo popular. If it weren’t for a brilliant song like “Give Up” I would be complaining here. Since I DO like this EP, and I love Hot Hot Heat, I will accept that they have followed the path of the EP releasing. I’d like to 'give up'. This song doesn’t make me want to though, ironic enough. Thanks Hot Hot Heat. You’re Hot.
“Miss You Love You” from Maroon 5’s new album “The B Collection”. Yes they released an album back in May, and I claimed I didn’t care for them at the time... yet this song surprised me. The whole 'B' album surprised me. If they had released this instead of their album “It won’t be soon before long”, I may have actually considered buying this. I am hesitant, however, for their past has clouded my judgment. You should still give this a try. It’s better than you think.
“Deep Love” from Mel Brooks “Young Frankenstein” , performed by Megan Mullally. Megan almost has the comedic chops to carry on Madeline Kahns legacy in the roll of Elizabeth Benning. She tries sooo hard and I commend her for that. But no one can touch the great Kahn. No one. I think I would see this crazy and obnoxious musical on Broadway. It looks horrible to the average eye, but if you haven’t seen the movie, you won’t understand the appeal. The classic film is one of Mel Brook’s best. Anything with Gene Wilder deserves an A+ from me. You combine Gene, Madeline, and Mel, and I swoooon.
“Shine of Babylon” Sheryl Crow’s new single. This is classic Crow. So happy to have her back. Her Wildflower album wasn’t well received by the critics or fans, and she was only popular cuz she was dating Lance for awhile there… now she is recovering from cancer and adopted a baby. I’m so happy I am writing about her not because of her personal accomplishments today, but because I’m impressed with her new single. Look for her new album, due February 5th. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, you mother fuckers, if it ‘MAKES YOU HAPPY’.
“2001 Spliff Odyssey” from Thievery Corporation “Warning Shots – The Digibox”. Who wouldn’t want to listen to a song named 2001 SPLIFF Odyssey. It screams ‘martini – shaken, not stirred”. You never shake the martini, darling – it bruises the gin. FYI. Anyway, Thievery Corp is on my top ten favorites of 2007ish. Definitely up there anyhow on that list-ish. The ‘DigBox” collection doesn’t have anything unreleased previously, but it does contain a 10 minute interview recorded. I’m in love – they speak of sound modules. YES! Show me your modules, Rob and Eric!
“Small Town Southern Man” Alan Jackson’s new single. Just what you’d expect. Tid bit I heard singing about ‘7 poor people all together, four pretty daughters, little words with loving, and understanding’ in 20 seconds. He has a nice voice, not too twangy. I miss Chattahoochee. I think Alan may be a one hit wonder for me. ‘Way down yonder on a Friday night…we made love by the pale moon light’. Oh no. I still know all the words. Shhhh. Keep that on the down low please. Rufus and Thom would have a fit.
“I Hate You (Big Daddy) performed by John C Reilly from the Walk Hard, the Dewey Cox Story” soundtrack. Who can argue with John C Reilly? He blew me away as Amos in Chicago, cracked me up as Lefty in “A Prairie Home Companion”, and made me jealous as Cal in Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby. His acting chops will deliver him the top award one day, just you wait.
“Clumsy – the Collipark Remix” from Fergie’s new EP – “Clumsy Remix featuring Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em – EP”. I know I know. Over played to the utmost annoying extent, yet I can’t get enough of Clumsy. The first Fergie single that I would voluntarily spin on the dance floor (uh.. if I were a dj. Ha!). I’m so proud of Fergie. Her album has been released for over a year and she is still monopolizing on it, creating new singles and remixes left and right. That’s the way it’s done, girlfriend. Now don’t cry, you are a big girl.
“Ordinary Day” Nick Lachey’s new single. Nick has the charisma of a gnat. Yeah, he’s good looking. And perhaps he IS better off with Vanessa than Jessica. But who really gives a shit? Can the guy sing? Kinda. But his songs a boring and he has no feeling. Plus he does that heavy breathing thing that Jessica does – I think he actually got some singing tip from his ex. Unfortunately they weren’t the right tips to borrow from her. Come to think of it, the only thing Jessica does right is wear low cut tops and short shorts. Hopefully he doesn’t try ‘acting’ next. Yikes.
“Story of an artist” from The Daniel Johnston tribute disc, “The Late Great Daniel Johnston: Discovered Covered” which has been remastered. It’s a 2 disc release that has the originals plus covers with effin all my favorites from 2006-2007 ish era.
Check it: TV on the Radio, Eels, Bright Eyes, Death Cab, Beck, M Ward, and much much more… Bright Eyes version of Daniel’s “Devil Town” is fantastic. “Story of an artist” is covered by M. Ward, whom I can’t get enough of. If you have any of his music, please burn it for me and mail it to me? Thanks.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
New Music Tuesday December 11th
December 11th
A very quiet week for new releases, unless you count the overload of hip-hop crap. Atleast one release is local, one is friggen sweet, and one is on to ‘ to purchase’ list.
“Alarm Clock” by The Rumble Strips’ new EP “The Alarm Clock”. This is a great “teen movie opener theme song”. These indie-pop rockers will be on the tip of your tongue by this Spring, I think. They’re British, and sometimes us Americans don’t get to hear music from across the pond til they get too big. So be the first to rock to the Rumble Strips in the US - cuz like the band The Kooks, they are still under the radar, and that’s a good thing.
“New York 1930” from The Dimes new album “the Silent Generation”. This is simply a fun album. These boys like to harmonize in their folkesque way. They are actually from here in my hometown of Portland, which is pretty cool. Always nice to see a neighbor make it big. They had their record release party last summer with Jonah at Holocene. Pretty neat, huh? Yeah I wouldn’t know, I didn’t make it. That’s ok, they play all the time. For their schedule, check http://www.myspace.com/thedimes for details.
“Superstar” by Lupe Fiasco featuring Matthew Santos, from Lupe’s new album “Lupe Fiasco’s The Cool”. Yeah, Lupe is cool. I do not apologize for promoting this song. You might as well face the music and enjoy Lupe, cuz he’s here to stay.
“It’s my fault for being famous” off of The White Stripes “Conquest” EP. Icky Thump is one of my top albums from 2007, so I was intrigued to see that they released an EP of my favorite song from the album. It’s totally their fault for being soooooo kick ass. I just hope their magic doesn’t fade away. It’s a love hate relationship for me with this EP, I want them to keep producing music, I absolutely love it, but I’m afraid they may need to stop while they’re ahead for right now. However, if they keep making music like “Honey I can’t afford to look this cheap” than I have nothing to worry about.
“Want to Fly” from Philip Glass’s album “Book of Longing: A Song Cycle Based on the Poetry and Images of Leonard Cohen”, which he composed songs to coincide with Leonard’s words from his poetry. Always happy with Cohen’s work, and am equally happy with this piece of art. It’s seemingly amazing to see two artists work together like this and have it flow in the right direction. Mr Cohen and Mr Glass both have a reputable history of work and someone was a genius to mesh these two talents together. This is on my must buy list for 2008. Too late to ask for it for Christmas…
“The Heart Gently Weeps” from Wu Tang Clan, featuring Erykah Badu, Dhani Harrison, and John Frusciante, from the Wu’s new album “The 8 Diagrams”. It’s silly to me to read the words “heart, gently, and weep” followed by the ‘n’ word and “killers” and “shooting” and “booty”. I was expecting something quite different. Clearly, I didn’t get the hip/hop vibe taste that seems to be infecting the radio these days, for songs like this I have a hard time ‘jamming’ to. I do believe that there is a strand of poetry in hip hop that deems it worthy of being played, the Wu Tang Clan has been around for ages and can hold their own in the music industry. In fact, this song was on the ‘Key Track” list to download in Rolling Stone Magazine in December. I have it on my iPod and will have to listen closer…
“Freaky Gurl” from Gucci Mane’s new record “Back to the Traphouse”. The song also features Lil Kim and Ludacris. I actually skipped 4 hip-hop record reviews this week and two still made on my list. Gucci Mane borrows Rick James hit “Super Freak” which was revived last year after Abigail’s dance in “Little Miss Sunshine”. It’s a different version from the classic, no doubt about it. I’m sure its playing in the Abercrombie and Fitch as we speak….
A very quiet week for new releases, unless you count the overload of hip-hop crap. Atleast one release is local, one is friggen sweet, and one is on to ‘ to purchase’ list.
“Alarm Clock” by The Rumble Strips’ new EP “The Alarm Clock”. This is a great “teen movie opener theme song”. These indie-pop rockers will be on the tip of your tongue by this Spring, I think. They’re British, and sometimes us Americans don’t get to hear music from across the pond til they get too big. So be the first to rock to the Rumble Strips in the US - cuz like the band The Kooks, they are still under the radar, and that’s a good thing.
“New York 1930” from The Dimes new album “the Silent Generation”. This is simply a fun album. These boys like to harmonize in their folkesque way. They are actually from here in my hometown of Portland, which is pretty cool. Always nice to see a neighbor make it big. They had their record release party last summer with Jonah at Holocene. Pretty neat, huh? Yeah I wouldn’t know, I didn’t make it. That’s ok, they play all the time. For their schedule, check http://www.myspace.com/thedimes for details.
“Superstar” by Lupe Fiasco featuring Matthew Santos, from Lupe’s new album “Lupe Fiasco’s The Cool”. Yeah, Lupe is cool. I do not apologize for promoting this song. You might as well face the music and enjoy Lupe, cuz he’s here to stay.
“It’s my fault for being famous” off of The White Stripes “Conquest” EP. Icky Thump is one of my top albums from 2007, so I was intrigued to see that they released an EP of my favorite song from the album. It’s totally their fault for being soooooo kick ass. I just hope their magic doesn’t fade away. It’s a love hate relationship for me with this EP, I want them to keep producing music, I absolutely love it, but I’m afraid they may need to stop while they’re ahead for right now. However, if they keep making music like “Honey I can’t afford to look this cheap” than I have nothing to worry about.
“Want to Fly” from Philip Glass’s album “Book of Longing: A Song Cycle Based on the Poetry and Images of Leonard Cohen”, which he composed songs to coincide with Leonard’s words from his poetry. Always happy with Cohen’s work, and am equally happy with this piece of art. It’s seemingly amazing to see two artists work together like this and have it flow in the right direction. Mr Cohen and Mr Glass both have a reputable history of work and someone was a genius to mesh these two talents together. This is on my must buy list for 2008. Too late to ask for it for Christmas…
“The Heart Gently Weeps” from Wu Tang Clan, featuring Erykah Badu, Dhani Harrison, and John Frusciante, from the Wu’s new album “The 8 Diagrams”. It’s silly to me to read the words “heart, gently, and weep” followed by the ‘n’ word and “killers” and “shooting” and “booty”. I was expecting something quite different. Clearly, I didn’t get the hip/hop vibe taste that seems to be infecting the radio these days, for songs like this I have a hard time ‘jamming’ to. I do believe that there is a strand of poetry in hip hop that deems it worthy of being played, the Wu Tang Clan has been around for ages and can hold their own in the music industry. In fact, this song was on the ‘Key Track” list to download in Rolling Stone Magazine in December. I have it on my iPod and will have to listen closer…
“Freaky Gurl” from Gucci Mane’s new record “Back to the Traphouse”. The song also features Lil Kim and Ludacris. I actually skipped 4 hip-hop record reviews this week and two still made on my list. Gucci Mane borrows Rick James hit “Super Freak” which was revived last year after Abigail’s dance in “Little Miss Sunshine”. It’s a different version from the classic, no doubt about it. I’m sure its playing in the Abercrombie and Fitch as we speak….
Thursday, January 3, 2008
New Music December 4th (30 days ago!)
December 4th
This week blowed. All singles or reissues or best of’s or ‘live’ albums, nothing extra-ordinary. Blake Lewis is the only album I reviewed that is an original. Go Blake. However, Rufus Wainwright released his live album at Carnegie Hall dedicated to Miss Judy Garland. Wow. I actually BOUGHT it from iTunes. I hardly ever buy from iTunes anymore. I like the real deal – I just haven’t had the time to look for Rufus’s new album in the stores, and sites I normally download off of didn’t carry his new album (appalling) so I broke down and paid for it through the big bad Apple. Love it.
“The Blowers Daughter – LIVE” from Damien Rice newly released album “Live from the Union Chapel”. I love this song. Sometimes it makes me cry – yes, ME cry. I know. I don’t cry at anything (normal). I cry when my dinner doesn’t turn out right, when my iPod doesn’t load in time for me to go to workout, or if its Christmas morning… ok that last one doesn’t make sense. Does any of it? No. Blow me. Or the daughter. The Blowers daughter, that is. This live version is just as chilling as the original. I bet it was amazing to hear live in a chapel. Jealous…
“Slow Down” by Wyclef Jean featuring T.I. “Carnival Volume II: Memoirs of an Immigrant”. Yeah Wyclef can hold his own outside of the Fugees. This track is a bit like the Marley family… in a good way of course. They sing about the world being in a war zone. When hasn’t it? Can you name one time where there hasn’t been a war someplace? Ok – that’s a challenge everyone! GO!
“THE WHOLE ALBUM!” from Rufus Wainwright: Rufus Does Judy at Carnegie Hall. Ok. So I actually downloaded this whole album. Yep. Rufus is fan-friggen-tastic. He played here a while back and closed his show with “Get Happy”, and the audience did get happy. If you’ve never seen Sir Rufus live, check out this video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDoy2UkhRAE&feature=related
Wainwright covers some well known hits as well as obscure ones like “You’re Nearer” and “Rock a Bye Baby with a Dixie Melody”. He of course added “Over the Rainbow” to the collection and it too is a incredible rendition.
“Up the Bracket” from Libertines: Time for Heroes - The Best of the Libertines… Well I actually due own four Libertine songs… and I do like the Libertines, I really do. But does their history really warrant a “best of” album? I guess so! These lil punk tykes are on their way. Totally.
“Let’s go get stoned” from “James Brown: The Singles, Vol. 4: 1966-1967”. Oh if we must. Call me, James…
“Crash and Burn” Pink: I'm Not Dead (Deluxe Edition). I’m bummed cuz I bought this cd last year and I didn’t get these extra songs – damn! I actually am a big fan of Pink. She ain’t dead – and she proves it on the album. So I missed out on this song plus two more. I may buy them – they are pretty killer. Appropriately titled fourth album of hers, she lets us know how she feels about the other ‘celebrities’ her age in the song ‘Stupid Girls’ which I immediately fell in love with… and in “Dear Mr. President” (which features the Indigo Girls – yay!) she pours out her thoughts regarding YOU know WHO. I was expecting a sassy bitchy song, buts its actually soft, angry, and sad. Plus she has an amazing voice and I’m hoping she is still considering playing Janis Joplin in a movie. I’m pink with overjoyment.
“Carcinogen Crush”, AFI’s new single. I think the song is actually good! BUT I really don’t like Davey Havok’s voice. I thought I liked AFI before, but every time I hear them I say “Ew, who is THAT?” Sorry, there is no ‘A Fire Inside” here. Other than that, the song itself, music and lyrics, is surpasses what I’ve heard from them previously. Poor kids.
“Know my name” by Blake Lewis (featuring Lupe Fiasco) from his debut album “Audio Day Dream”. I’m loco for Lupe. He’s a Muslim rapper from Chicago. How Blake got cool enough to include Lupe is beyond me. Don’t get me wrong, Blake has got talent. He just can’t SING sing. He’s more of a bee-bopper. Hip hop saved their lives, you know.
“Santa Clause is coming to town” - Bucky Covington’s new single. Holy crap. That’s the best way I can describe this winner. And yes, I am being sarcastic. Oh Bucky, stick to what you know. Please don’t try to country-ize a Christmas song and make it your own… and speaking of Christmas singles from former idols….
“Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel” - Clay Akin’s new single from his Christmas EP. Whats ironic is that he is getting old enough to get away with singing like Barry Manilow. But the hair??? And when is he finally coming out of the closet already? All in all, this holiday EP is better than Bucky’s sad attempt, and you can take that any way you want (I’m sure Clay will…).
“Please come home for Christmas” - Josh Gracin . Now Josh gets the country-izing factor right for this holiday hit, unlike our dear idol Bucky. I can’t believe I’m recommending Josh Gracin… country ain’t my thing, folks. He also released the single: “The Virgins Lullaby” which is the epitome of why I don’t listen to country. Blech.
“Christmas in Dixie” - Trent Tomlinson’s new holiday single. Thank God the holidays are over, so I don’t have to review shit like this anymore. Good Lord. He doesn’t like his women drunker than he is – just a heads up to y’all alcoholics.
This week blowed. All singles or reissues or best of’s or ‘live’ albums, nothing extra-ordinary. Blake Lewis is the only album I reviewed that is an original. Go Blake. However, Rufus Wainwright released his live album at Carnegie Hall dedicated to Miss Judy Garland. Wow. I actually BOUGHT it from iTunes. I hardly ever buy from iTunes anymore. I like the real deal – I just haven’t had the time to look for Rufus’s new album in the stores, and sites I normally download off of didn’t carry his new album (appalling) so I broke down and paid for it through the big bad Apple. Love it.
“The Blowers Daughter – LIVE” from Damien Rice newly released album “Live from the Union Chapel”. I love this song. Sometimes it makes me cry – yes, ME cry. I know. I don’t cry at anything (normal). I cry when my dinner doesn’t turn out right, when my iPod doesn’t load in time for me to go to workout, or if its Christmas morning… ok that last one doesn’t make sense. Does any of it? No. Blow me. Or the daughter. The Blowers daughter, that is. This live version is just as chilling as the original. I bet it was amazing to hear live in a chapel. Jealous…
“Slow Down” by Wyclef Jean featuring T.I. “Carnival Volume II: Memoirs of an Immigrant”. Yeah Wyclef can hold his own outside of the Fugees. This track is a bit like the Marley family… in a good way of course. They sing about the world being in a war zone. When hasn’t it? Can you name one time where there hasn’t been a war someplace? Ok – that’s a challenge everyone! GO!
“THE WHOLE ALBUM!” from Rufus Wainwright: Rufus Does Judy at Carnegie Hall. Ok. So I actually downloaded this whole album. Yep. Rufus is fan-friggen-tastic. He played here a while back and closed his show with “Get Happy”, and the audience did get happy. If you’ve never seen Sir Rufus live, check out this video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDoy2UkhRAE&feature=related
Wainwright covers some well known hits as well as obscure ones like “You’re Nearer” and “Rock a Bye Baby with a Dixie Melody”. He of course added “Over the Rainbow” to the collection and it too is a incredible rendition.
“Up the Bracket” from Libertines: Time for Heroes - The Best of the Libertines… Well I actually due own four Libertine songs… and I do like the Libertines, I really do. But does their history really warrant a “best of” album? I guess so! These lil punk tykes are on their way. Totally.
“Let’s go get stoned” from “James Brown: The Singles, Vol. 4: 1966-1967”. Oh if we must. Call me, James…
“Crash and Burn” Pink: I'm Not Dead (Deluxe Edition). I’m bummed cuz I bought this cd last year and I didn’t get these extra songs – damn! I actually am a big fan of Pink. She ain’t dead – and she proves it on the album. So I missed out on this song plus two more. I may buy them – they are pretty killer. Appropriately titled fourth album of hers, she lets us know how she feels about the other ‘celebrities’ her age in the song ‘Stupid Girls’ which I immediately fell in love with… and in “Dear Mr. President” (which features the Indigo Girls – yay!) she pours out her thoughts regarding YOU know WHO. I was expecting a sassy bitchy song, buts its actually soft, angry, and sad. Plus she has an amazing voice and I’m hoping she is still considering playing Janis Joplin in a movie. I’m pink with overjoyment.
“Carcinogen Crush”, AFI’s new single. I think the song is actually good! BUT I really don’t like Davey Havok’s voice. I thought I liked AFI before, but every time I hear them I say “Ew, who is THAT?” Sorry, there is no ‘A Fire Inside” here. Other than that, the song itself, music and lyrics, is surpasses what I’ve heard from them previously. Poor kids.
“Know my name” by Blake Lewis (featuring Lupe Fiasco) from his debut album “Audio Day Dream”. I’m loco for Lupe. He’s a Muslim rapper from Chicago. How Blake got cool enough to include Lupe is beyond me. Don’t get me wrong, Blake has got talent. He just can’t SING sing. He’s more of a bee-bopper. Hip hop saved their lives, you know.
“Santa Clause is coming to town” - Bucky Covington’s new single. Holy crap. That’s the best way I can describe this winner. And yes, I am being sarcastic. Oh Bucky, stick to what you know. Please don’t try to country-ize a Christmas song and make it your own… and speaking of Christmas singles from former idols….
“Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel” - Clay Akin’s new single from his Christmas EP. Whats ironic is that he is getting old enough to get away with singing like Barry Manilow. But the hair??? And when is he finally coming out of the closet already? All in all, this holiday EP is better than Bucky’s sad attempt, and you can take that any way you want (I’m sure Clay will…).
“Please come home for Christmas” - Josh Gracin . Now Josh gets the country-izing factor right for this holiday hit, unlike our dear idol Bucky. I can’t believe I’m recommending Josh Gracin… country ain’t my thing, folks. He also released the single: “The Virgins Lullaby” which is the epitome of why I don’t listen to country. Blech.
“Christmas in Dixie” - Trent Tomlinson’s new holiday single. Thank God the holidays are over, so I don’t have to review shit like this anymore. Good Lord. He doesn’t like his women drunker than he is – just a heads up to y’all alcoholics.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
New Music November 26th baby
26 November
Pretty pathetic load up here. Nothing I'm all drooling over. I mean, the Killers rock... but it's only a single, and its a holiday song. And it's really January 2nd today. Damn.
“Work That” by Mary J. Blige from the queen of hi-hop soul’s new album“Growing Pains”. MJ doesn’t have to try to impress anymore. She had Bono on her last album, and when you incorporate U2 on a track, you have made it big. The album is full of energy, and the right kind at that. Sometimes I get bored with her lyrics, but her style and voice always brings me back. To be honest, I don’t think I have one song of hers on my iPod… except for “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest” which isn’t even hers or on an album of hers. It’s from the Bridget Jones soundtrack. That’s ok, it doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate her talent – it means I don’t care for most of her music. Like Madonna, we have crowned them as queens of a certain genre, and well deserved of both women, I just don’t like their choices. Perhaps someday I will.
“Go Girl” from Pitbull, featuring Trina and Young Boss, from his nw album “Boatlift”. I like Pitbulls “Fuego” song. Usually I don’t seek out house music or whatever, but sometimes a certain song grabs me. The “Go Girl” song is totally bump and grind music. I guess I’m just too effin old to deal with it. I suppose it’s not horrible, though!!!!
“Material girl” performed by Mountain Party, from the “Through the Wilderness: A Tribute to Madonna”, which features tracks by Ariel Pink, Apollo Heights, and the Golden Animals to name a few. Now this actually makes me like Madonna (as I mentioned previously, I am not the biggest Madonna fan). Mountain Party is my best friend!!!! I HATE “Material Girl” but they have totally altered the song in the best way possible.
“World Shut Your Mouth” perfomred by Death Cab for Cutie, from “Causes I”, which is a benefit album for Darfur. Including artists such as Bright Eyes, Spoon, and even the Cure. I picked Death Cabs song cuz they usually don’t sound this energetic! Normally I want to snooze while they are singing…. Plus the world SHOULD shut it’s mouth. Now.
The Killers “Don’t shoot me Santa” single. This song is precious. The video is pretty funny, actually. Too bad Christmas is over and no one cares about holiday singles anymore, but I had to review it cuz they deserve it. The Killers are no match for the holidays being over. I will listen to this song in June.
“The Heinrich Maneuver Phones remix” from Interpol’s new Remix – EP. This is a great song, thanks Anne! But to remix it made it better, sorry Anne! Interpol isn’t on my favorites list or anything, but my friend Anne loves them, so I give them a chance and don’t overlook their releases as I normally would have (like Mudvanye and Mike Jones, who released new SHIT this week). So finally, thanks Anne.
“Talking out da the side of ya neck” Dem Franchize Boys new single. Not as contagious as their “Lean with it” song, but I like the words better. It reminds me of what I used to say “Talking out of your ass” but people (like my mom) didn’t like it so much. “Neck” is a bit more “PC” than ass, so I’m definitely stealing ‘dems lyrics. Teehee.
“Lord Save me From Myself” from Jon Foreman’s new EP “Fall”. This is Jon’s first music released solo. He’s usually the lead for the band Switchfoot. He also is starting a project with Sean Watkins of “Nickel Creek” fame called “The Real SeanJon”. We will see if that works out as well as the “Wreckers” has done for Michelle Branch and Jessica Harp, he he. So Jon is a bit folky, and I love it. This song is beautifully instrumented.
Pretty pathetic load up here. Nothing I'm all drooling over. I mean, the Killers rock... but it's only a single, and its a holiday song. And it's really January 2nd today. Damn.
“Work That” by Mary J. Blige from the queen of hi-hop soul’s new album“Growing Pains”. MJ doesn’t have to try to impress anymore. She had Bono on her last album, and when you incorporate U2 on a track, you have made it big. The album is full of energy, and the right kind at that. Sometimes I get bored with her lyrics, but her style and voice always brings me back. To be honest, I don’t think I have one song of hers on my iPod… except for “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest” which isn’t even hers or on an album of hers. It’s from the Bridget Jones soundtrack. That’s ok, it doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate her talent – it means I don’t care for most of her music. Like Madonna, we have crowned them as queens of a certain genre, and well deserved of both women, I just don’t like their choices. Perhaps someday I will.
“Go Girl” from Pitbull, featuring Trina and Young Boss, from his nw album “Boatlift”. I like Pitbulls “Fuego” song. Usually I don’t seek out house music or whatever, but sometimes a certain song grabs me. The “Go Girl” song is totally bump and grind music. I guess I’m just too effin old to deal with it. I suppose it’s not horrible, though!!!!
“Material girl” performed by Mountain Party, from the “Through the Wilderness: A Tribute to Madonna”, which features tracks by Ariel Pink, Apollo Heights, and the Golden Animals to name a few. Now this actually makes me like Madonna (as I mentioned previously, I am not the biggest Madonna fan). Mountain Party is my best friend!!!! I HATE “Material Girl” but they have totally altered the song in the best way possible.
“World Shut Your Mouth” perfomred by Death Cab for Cutie, from “Causes I”, which is a benefit album for Darfur. Including artists such as Bright Eyes, Spoon, and even the Cure. I picked Death Cabs song cuz they usually don’t sound this energetic! Normally I want to snooze while they are singing…. Plus the world SHOULD shut it’s mouth. Now.
The Killers “Don’t shoot me Santa” single. This song is precious. The video is pretty funny, actually. Too bad Christmas is over and no one cares about holiday singles anymore, but I had to review it cuz they deserve it. The Killers are no match for the holidays being over. I will listen to this song in June.
“The Heinrich Maneuver Phones remix” from Interpol’s new Remix – EP. This is a great song, thanks Anne! But to remix it made it better, sorry Anne! Interpol isn’t on my favorites list or anything, but my friend Anne loves them, so I give them a chance and don’t overlook their releases as I normally would have (like Mudvanye and Mike Jones, who released new SHIT this week). So finally, thanks Anne.
“Talking out da the side of ya neck” Dem Franchize Boys new single. Not as contagious as their “Lean with it” song, but I like the words better. It reminds me of what I used to say “Talking out of your ass” but people (like my mom) didn’t like it so much. “Neck” is a bit more “PC” than ass, so I’m definitely stealing ‘dems lyrics. Teehee.
“Lord Save me From Myself” from Jon Foreman’s new EP “Fall”. This is Jon’s first music released solo. He’s usually the lead for the band Switchfoot. He also is starting a project with Sean Watkins of “Nickel Creek” fame called “The Real SeanJon”. We will see if that works out as well as the “Wreckers” has done for Michelle Branch and Jessica Harp, he he. So Jon is a bit folky, and I love it. This song is beautifully instrumented.
Friday, December 28, 2007
New Music Tuesday, November 20th
20 November Tuesday
here ya are, folks. Short but sweet - Thanksgiving week. Damn.
“Honey” from Erykah Badu, her new single. Smooth like Honey. Not as smart as her old hits, but fun none the less. Erykah Badu will surely be a constant on my iPod, and I don’t see why this single shouldn’t grace my music collection. I think I will wait in anticipation for a new album? (“Nu Amerykah” to be released February 26, 2008!)
“(Love is) a Bitchslap” from Sebastian Bach feat. Axl Rose from Sebastian Bach’s new album “Angel Down”. Don’t get the holiday spirit from this album, which is ok since I didn’t get any spirit this year – not one bit. So Axl Rose is into collaborating with this band, three songs to be precise. Had to pick the bitchslap one, even though it’s just a bunch of screaming and guitar riffs. The riffs are pretty, er, bitchin though. Kinda headbanging!
“Touch it / Technologic” from Daft Punk’s album “Daft Punk Alive 2007 - Live album”. I’ve been totally into punk these days. I don’t think this is very punk though… it’s more strobe light discotheque. I guess its punk. It’s more electronic house music, just as Wikipedia says – similar to Dimitri from Paris. Been playin from France since ’93. Dude!
“Ill be waiting” which is the new single from Lenny Kravitz. To be honest, this is kinda crap. Lenny should stick to the guitar, and not love songs. His hits “Lady” and “American Woman” should be his template for any other single he releases, cuz that’s when he’s at his best. But he’s still hot.
“My Violent Heart” from Nine Inch Nails new “Y34RZ3R0R3MIX3D” remix album. Now don’t tell Trent (lead singer), but he’s kinda ripped off Sexy Back here. It’s like an angry JT song. Luv it. Remixed NIN rocks.
“No Air” by Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown from Ms Sparks self titled debut album “Jordin Sparks”. So Jordin. No, I wouldn’t buy any of her music, I’m not a POP kinda gal. But Jordin has a nice voice, and to be able to collaborate with Chris Brown must have felt pretty good considering she’s just a contest winner. Ok, we know American Idol isn’t just a contest, is it? The next season starts here is a couple of weeks – mark your lame-ass calendars.
“Eff me Pumps” Amy Winehouse “Frank”. Now this isn’t really a new album of Amy’s, just a new release for us Americans. I chose this song cuz I’m WEARING my EFF ME PUMPS today! YAY! Amy effin rocks. I really really love Frank. Every song is just exquisite.
“Goddess Atonement” by Six Organs of Admittance from their new album “Shelter from the Ash”. This has a beautiful Spanish guitar that immediately transports your mind to the Madrid at a café with a carafe of nice wine and a great friend to share it with. Mmmmm. Nice song. The whole 8 song album is serene and cultural. Just what I fucking needed today.
“Drunk Chicken / America” from U2 and Allen Ginsberg off “U2: Joshua Tree (remastered)”. I had to add this even though it’s not really new – it’s remastered. BUT its like one of the best albums ever remastered , with better sound, etc. So Bono got the infamous poet Allen to rant on his album. Cool beans. Had to pick it. I mean really, drunk chickens??? What were they on? Payote?
“Timeless to Me” by Nathan Lane, from “Hairspray soundtrack”, Collector’s addition. Yes they decided to release a collector’s addition of the movie soundtrack to Hairspray. I’m not really 100% sure why. Maybe it’s because they were bored, maybe they wanted to cash in on the holiday spending, who knows.
here ya are, folks. Short but sweet - Thanksgiving week. Damn.
“Honey” from Erykah Badu, her new single. Smooth like Honey. Not as smart as her old hits, but fun none the less. Erykah Badu will surely be a constant on my iPod, and I don’t see why this single shouldn’t grace my music collection. I think I will wait in anticipation for a new album? (“Nu Amerykah” to be released February 26, 2008!)
“(Love is) a Bitchslap” from Sebastian Bach feat. Axl Rose from Sebastian Bach’s new album “Angel Down”. Don’t get the holiday spirit from this album, which is ok since I didn’t get any spirit this year – not one bit. So Axl Rose is into collaborating with this band, three songs to be precise. Had to pick the bitchslap one, even though it’s just a bunch of screaming and guitar riffs. The riffs are pretty, er, bitchin though. Kinda headbanging!
“Touch it / Technologic” from Daft Punk’s album “Daft Punk Alive 2007 - Live album”. I’ve been totally into punk these days. I don’t think this is very punk though… it’s more strobe light discotheque. I guess its punk. It’s more electronic house music, just as Wikipedia says – similar to Dimitri from Paris. Been playin from France since ’93. Dude!
“Ill be waiting” which is the new single from Lenny Kravitz. To be honest, this is kinda crap. Lenny should stick to the guitar, and not love songs. His hits “Lady” and “American Woman” should be his template for any other single he releases, cuz that’s when he’s at his best. But he’s still hot.
“My Violent Heart” from Nine Inch Nails new “Y34RZ3R0R3MIX3D” remix album. Now don’t tell Trent (lead singer), but he’s kinda ripped off Sexy Back here. It’s like an angry JT song. Luv it. Remixed NIN rocks.
“No Air” by Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown from Ms Sparks self titled debut album “Jordin Sparks”. So Jordin. No, I wouldn’t buy any of her music, I’m not a POP kinda gal. But Jordin has a nice voice, and to be able to collaborate with Chris Brown must have felt pretty good considering she’s just a contest winner. Ok, we know American Idol isn’t just a contest, is it? The next season starts here is a couple of weeks – mark your lame-ass calendars.
“Eff me Pumps” Amy Winehouse “Frank”. Now this isn’t really a new album of Amy’s, just a new release for us Americans. I chose this song cuz I’m WEARING my EFF ME PUMPS today! YAY! Amy effin rocks. I really really love Frank. Every song is just exquisite.
“Goddess Atonement” by Six Organs of Admittance from their new album “Shelter from the Ash”. This has a beautiful Spanish guitar that immediately transports your mind to the Madrid at a café with a carafe of nice wine and a great friend to share it with. Mmmmm. Nice song. The whole 8 song album is serene and cultural. Just what I fucking needed today.
“Drunk Chicken / America” from U2 and Allen Ginsberg off “U2: Joshua Tree (remastered)”. I had to add this even though it’s not really new – it’s remastered. BUT its like one of the best albums ever remastered , with better sound, etc. So Bono got the infamous poet Allen to rant on his album. Cool beans. Had to pick it. I mean really, drunk chickens??? What were they on? Payote?
“Timeless to Me” by Nathan Lane, from “Hairspray soundtrack”, Collector’s addition. Yes they decided to release a collector’s addition of the movie soundtrack to Hairspray. I’m not really 100% sure why. Maybe it’s because they were bored, maybe they wanted to cash in on the holiday spending, who knows.
New Music Tuesday November 13th
13 November Tuesday
Love The Killers, Love David Gray, and Love The Hives.
Classic Boys II Men and Celine Dion to torture you with.
Gotta accept Led Zeppelin, Alicia Keys, and the Goo Goo Dolls.
As for the Spice Girls, I’m seasoned out.
The rest of these new releases are pretty killer. I never complain to hear new good music. Enjoy.
“Ribbon in the Sky” from Boyz II Men from their new cover song album “Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville”. Yeah hearing three guys (#4 left in ’03) sing A Capella to a song called “Ribbon in the Sky” isn’t gay at all. Vintage Boyz. They even snap and are probably wearing all white when recording this song. Totally the straight and narrow. No closet in site. Riiiiiight.
“Black Bubblegum” from Dillinger Escape Plan’s new insane album “Ire Works”. A bit more hard than I’d like, yet this song “Black Bubblegum” is way fascinating. Dillinger Escape Plan is an interesting group. They bring in Jazz and hard rock at the same time. I don’t get it which means I will be searching for more Dillinger of the past.
“Can’t fight the feeling” from Celine Dion’s new album “Taking Chances”. You have to admit Celine has an amazing range of tone. What you don’t have to admit is whether you like her music or not. I pretty much don’t, but I can’t help but rock out to “Power of Love’ or “Treat her like a lady” on a whim. So I was in tears laughing at Rolling Stone Magazine’s review of Celine Dion’s record. For your enjoyment: http://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/album/16317192/review/17437037/taking_chances
“Name”, “Iris”, and “Black Balloon” from the Goo Goo Dolls new “Greatest Hits, Vol. 1--The Singles” album. Love the Goo Goo Dolls. Had all the songs so I don’t need the greatest hits but it brought me back to the days of Gooooo. Thanks, Doll.
“Try it Again” from The Hives new album “The Black and White Album”. They get real punk on this album. They have that Brit 80’s feel and you want to be on a trampoline with your graveyard drink and mambas and fun dip. I like the Hives. They still don’t sparkle like a diamond lost in a pile of rocks for me yet. Waiting…. To catch the Hives??
“45:33” which is LCD Soundsystem’s new single. Ok, so the track is actually that long. Forty-five minutes of one song. But for some reason iTunes is selling it as an album only purchase and THEN it’s only one song and it’s $7.99???? Huh? Other than that, this song it kinda cool!!! LCD Soundsystem is up for a Grammy! Congrats!
“Over the Hills and Far Away” from Led Zeppelin “Mothership Best-of”. Well well well Jimmy and Robert are in the studio again. Wow. Guess they see other geezers like Mick, Keith, Angus Young, Steven Tyler, Mick Fleetwood, Don Henley, and Neil Young making albums and touring, why can’t they? Nah, just kiddin. Led Zeppelin is essential to any music collection, for sure. And calling their best of album the “Mothership” is quite fitting since the hype that they are in the studio is on everyone’s minds. They recently played in memory of Ahmet Ertegün from Atlantic Records, which produced the Mothership and their other albums, and had Bonham’s son play drums in honor of his father, part of the original four. Very cool bit of history we will see shortly if they take their act on the road again. They may be old now, but their fans are not… so the audience may be more than these old farts can handle.
“Like You’ll Never See Me Again” from Alicia Keys new album “As I Am”. Alicia has always been a classy woman. She impresses the masses once again with her single “No One”. I like the song, but I like this pick better. Alicia was on Ellen the other day and said she had needed a vacation to get away from everyone telling her how and what to do. So she decided to go to Egypt and climb the pyramids and sing at the top of her lungs. Said she was there for two weeks. I think this is a beautiful story, but this is a bit impossible. You can sort of climb them, but they are really old. Like older than Willie Nelson. And the camel jockeys would have been all over her ass- and she didn’t even mention them once. Anyway, Ellen asked “Did anyone bother you?” and she said “No”. This can’t be true. What ever. Alicia rocks and can lie when ever she wants.
“Bat Macumba” from Os Mutantes live album so appropriately called “Os Mutantes Live”. Unlike the Brazilian Girls, these guys really ARE Brazilian, and they jam hard core. I’d live to fly to Brazil and hear them live. Too bad I can’t. They haven’t played live since the 70’s. I can still listen to their live album and pretend. So get naked and paint your face people! Os Mutantes “live from London” album is here!!!!
“Heaven on their minds” from Queensryche’s new album “Take Cover”. All covers of not so popular songs from very very popular bands, like Pink Floyd, U2, CSNY, Black Sabbath, and even Andrew Lloyd Weber!!! Ha! I of course picked Andrews song, cuz it’s from Jesus Christ Superstar and I’m going to see that next Thursday. So stoked. I have wanted to see that and Les Mis for as long as I have been into theatre. Yay. Anyway, these covers are actually pretty kickin. I may download some eventually. I hadn’t ever heard of Queensryche before, probably because they are heavy metal and I am not. Been around since ’81, even somewhat local (Bellevue, WA)… right on. Plus they are on iTunes Essentials 80’s PowerBallads list, along with Guns N Roses, Heart, Cheap Trick, and Whitesnake. Damn!
“Spice up your life” from Spice Girls “Greatest Hits”. Oh yes the fab 5 are back in a huge way. But first, they must remind you of their massive hits again… Spice up your life is a moc of Gloria Estevan, and somehow in a good way. I don’t know how they pulled that off, but they did. I want to learn the foxtrot or the mambo or maybe even the samba to this tune. Niiiiiiiice.
“Monkey Gone To Heaven” from the album “Dig for Fire: A Pixies Tribute” performed by Elk City. I really like Elk City. I love the Pixies - who doesn’t. This tribute album is a mastermind. Not only is it a rare tribute to a band never to be forgotten, but it features bands that are up and coming new favorites of mine like Elk City, Ok Go, The Rosebuds, and British Sea Power, and more… This song is classic Pixie with the Elk City twist. Merry Christmas to me
“They Call it Falling for a Reason” from Trisha Yearwood’s new country masterpiece “Heaven, Heartache, and the Power of Love”. That’s a mouthful of a title, ain’t it?? Trisha’s ‘new’ music is exactly like her old music, but what she sings, she sings well. How can we liiiiiive with out her? I want to know…. I think this song is a hoot. She’s right you know. When you fall – you land straight on your face. That’s life.
“Wedding Day” from Seal’s new album “System”. Love Seal. Don’t love the album cover. A little scary. It’s like a disco ball but with Seals face. So who wouldn’t want to hear Heidi Klum sing ? Yeah that’s right. Seal invited his lovely model wife Heidi to duet with him. On the snippit of sound iTunes allows you can’t really hear Heidi. So I perused the internet and found the full version. Verdict: She wasn’t so bad. The song would be perfect for a Victoria Secret show. They probably have already used it! Ha!
“You’re the world to me” from David Gray’s “Greatest Hits”. Oh David. How do you put a new single on a Greatest Hits album? I guess the best of them do it – and I love the single “You’re the world to me”, so I’m not complaining. It’s a real sweet song, and it’s even graced a birthday compilation I made already (little bro’s 19th the other day). Looks like “Destroyer” is a new song as well. Right on. Downloading time.
“Where the White Boys Dance” from The Killers sort of new music collection “Sawdust”. Mostly the album is songs that they’ve sang live (All The Pretty Faces, Indie RockNRoll) and released previously separately (Move Away, Shadowplay) but they DID give some new tracks like “Tranquilize” and “Leave the Bourbon on the Shelf”… To be honest, there isn’t one song by the Killers where I go “TURN THAT OFF!!!” !!! They are the best thing since sliced bread. The white boy dancing song is my favorite, though. It’s a bit more punk that pink.
“I want to be alone” from folk singer Vashti Bunyan's re-release “Some Things Just Stick in Your Mind: Singles and Demos 1964-1967”. I don’t’ know who Vashti is. But I know her now. A tid bit of trivia for you: “Some Things Just Stick in Your Mind” was not only her first single debut (back in 1965) but it was also written by the infamous Glimmer Twins (Jagger and Richards).
Love The Killers, Love David Gray, and Love The Hives.
Classic Boys II Men and Celine Dion to torture you with.
Gotta accept Led Zeppelin, Alicia Keys, and the Goo Goo Dolls.
As for the Spice Girls, I’m seasoned out.
The rest of these new releases are pretty killer. I never complain to hear new good music. Enjoy.
“Ribbon in the Sky” from Boyz II Men from their new cover song album “Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville”. Yeah hearing three guys (#4 left in ’03) sing A Capella to a song called “Ribbon in the Sky” isn’t gay at all. Vintage Boyz. They even snap and are probably wearing all white when recording this song. Totally the straight and narrow. No closet in site. Riiiiiight.
“Black Bubblegum” from Dillinger Escape Plan’s new insane album “Ire Works”. A bit more hard than I’d like, yet this song “Black Bubblegum” is way fascinating. Dillinger Escape Plan is an interesting group. They bring in Jazz and hard rock at the same time. I don’t get it which means I will be searching for more Dillinger of the past.
“Can’t fight the feeling” from Celine Dion’s new album “Taking Chances”. You have to admit Celine has an amazing range of tone. What you don’t have to admit is whether you like her music or not. I pretty much don’t, but I can’t help but rock out to “Power of Love’ or “Treat her like a lady” on a whim. So I was in tears laughing at Rolling Stone Magazine’s review of Celine Dion’s record. For your enjoyment: http://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/album/16317192/review/17437037/taking_chances
“Name”, “Iris”, and “Black Balloon” from the Goo Goo Dolls new “Greatest Hits, Vol. 1--The Singles” album. Love the Goo Goo Dolls. Had all the songs so I don’t need the greatest hits but it brought me back to the days of Gooooo. Thanks, Doll.
“Try it Again” from The Hives new album “The Black and White Album”. They get real punk on this album. They have that Brit 80’s feel and you want to be on a trampoline with your graveyard drink and mambas and fun dip. I like the Hives. They still don’t sparkle like a diamond lost in a pile of rocks for me yet. Waiting…. To catch the Hives??
“45:33” which is LCD Soundsystem’s new single. Ok, so the track is actually that long. Forty-five minutes of one song. But for some reason iTunes is selling it as an album only purchase and THEN it’s only one song and it’s $7.99???? Huh? Other than that, this song it kinda cool!!! LCD Soundsystem is up for a Grammy! Congrats!
“Over the Hills and Far Away” from Led Zeppelin “Mothership Best-of”. Well well well Jimmy and Robert are in the studio again. Wow. Guess they see other geezers like Mick, Keith, Angus Young, Steven Tyler, Mick Fleetwood, Don Henley, and Neil Young making albums and touring, why can’t they? Nah, just kiddin. Led Zeppelin is essential to any music collection, for sure. And calling their best of album the “Mothership” is quite fitting since the hype that they are in the studio is on everyone’s minds. They recently played in memory of Ahmet Ertegün from Atlantic Records, which produced the Mothership and their other albums, and had Bonham’s son play drums in honor of his father, part of the original four. Very cool bit of history we will see shortly if they take their act on the road again. They may be old now, but their fans are not… so the audience may be more than these old farts can handle.
“Like You’ll Never See Me Again” from Alicia Keys new album “As I Am”. Alicia has always been a classy woman. She impresses the masses once again with her single “No One”. I like the song, but I like this pick better. Alicia was on Ellen the other day and said she had needed a vacation to get away from everyone telling her how and what to do. So she decided to go to Egypt and climb the pyramids and sing at the top of her lungs. Said she was there for two weeks. I think this is a beautiful story, but this is a bit impossible. You can sort of climb them, but they are really old. Like older than Willie Nelson. And the camel jockeys would have been all over her ass- and she didn’t even mention them once. Anyway, Ellen asked “Did anyone bother you?” and she said “No”. This can’t be true. What ever. Alicia rocks and can lie when ever she wants.
“Bat Macumba” from Os Mutantes live album so appropriately called “Os Mutantes Live”. Unlike the Brazilian Girls, these guys really ARE Brazilian, and they jam hard core. I’d live to fly to Brazil and hear them live. Too bad I can’t. They haven’t played live since the 70’s. I can still listen to their live album and pretend. So get naked and paint your face people! Os Mutantes “live from London” album is here!!!!
“Heaven on their minds” from Queensryche’s new album “Take Cover”. All covers of not so popular songs from very very popular bands, like Pink Floyd, U2, CSNY, Black Sabbath, and even Andrew Lloyd Weber!!! Ha! I of course picked Andrews song, cuz it’s from Jesus Christ Superstar and I’m going to see that next Thursday. So stoked. I have wanted to see that and Les Mis for as long as I have been into theatre. Yay. Anyway, these covers are actually pretty kickin. I may download some eventually. I hadn’t ever heard of Queensryche before, probably because they are heavy metal and I am not. Been around since ’81, even somewhat local (Bellevue, WA)… right on. Plus they are on iTunes Essentials 80’s PowerBallads list, along with Guns N Roses, Heart, Cheap Trick, and Whitesnake. Damn!
“Spice up your life” from Spice Girls “Greatest Hits”. Oh yes the fab 5 are back in a huge way. But first, they must remind you of their massive hits again… Spice up your life is a moc of Gloria Estevan, and somehow in a good way. I don’t know how they pulled that off, but they did. I want to learn the foxtrot or the mambo or maybe even the samba to this tune. Niiiiiiiice.
“Monkey Gone To Heaven” from the album “Dig for Fire: A Pixies Tribute” performed by Elk City. I really like Elk City. I love the Pixies - who doesn’t. This tribute album is a mastermind. Not only is it a rare tribute to a band never to be forgotten, but it features bands that are up and coming new favorites of mine like Elk City, Ok Go, The Rosebuds, and British Sea Power, and more… This song is classic Pixie with the Elk City twist. Merry Christmas to me
“They Call it Falling for a Reason” from Trisha Yearwood’s new country masterpiece “Heaven, Heartache, and the Power of Love”. That’s a mouthful of a title, ain’t it?? Trisha’s ‘new’ music is exactly like her old music, but what she sings, she sings well. How can we liiiiiive with out her? I want to know…. I think this song is a hoot. She’s right you know. When you fall – you land straight on your face. That’s life.
“Wedding Day” from Seal’s new album “System”. Love Seal. Don’t love the album cover. A little scary. It’s like a disco ball but with Seals face. So who wouldn’t want to hear Heidi Klum sing ? Yeah that’s right. Seal invited his lovely model wife Heidi to duet with him. On the snippit of sound iTunes allows you can’t really hear Heidi. So I perused the internet and found the full version. Verdict: She wasn’t so bad. The song would be perfect for a Victoria Secret show. They probably have already used it! Ha!
“You’re the world to me” from David Gray’s “Greatest Hits”. Oh David. How do you put a new single on a Greatest Hits album? I guess the best of them do it – and I love the single “You’re the world to me”, so I’m not complaining. It’s a real sweet song, and it’s even graced a birthday compilation I made already (little bro’s 19th the other day). Looks like “Destroyer” is a new song as well. Right on. Downloading time.
“Where the White Boys Dance” from The Killers sort of new music collection “Sawdust”. Mostly the album is songs that they’ve sang live (All The Pretty Faces, Indie RockNRoll) and released previously separately (Move Away, Shadowplay) but they DID give some new tracks like “Tranquilize” and “Leave the Bourbon on the Shelf”… To be honest, there isn’t one song by the Killers where I go “TURN THAT OFF!!!” !!! They are the best thing since sliced bread. The white boy dancing song is my favorite, though. It’s a bit more punk that pink.
“I want to be alone” from folk singer Vashti Bunyan's re-release “Some Things Just Stick in Your Mind: Singles and Demos 1964-1967”. I don’t’ know who Vashti is. But I know her now. A tid bit of trivia for you: “Some Things Just Stick in Your Mind” was not only her first single debut (back in 1965) but it was also written by the infamous Glimmer Twins (Jagger and Richards).
Friday, December 7, 2007
New Music TuesdayNovember 6th!!
New Music Tuesday November 6th! Yeah Baby!
It was an okay week for music. Mainly new stuff for me to check out. And that aint a bad thing!!
“Que Sera, Sera” performed by Damien Rice and David Gray from the album “Live Earth” with various artists titled “Concerts for the Climate Crisis” including Madonna, The Police, Foo Fighters, John Mayer, John Legend, and of course Damien Rice and David Gray to name a few. John Legend sings “Mercy Mercy Me” and I would have picked that song if Corinne Bailey Rae wasn’t singing with him. Ewwwe. David and Damien blend über well for this personal favorite of mine. I will never forget that drunken buffoon singing this at the Alibi karaoke and wanted me to come help him with the song. Turns out he didn’t really care if I sang; he just didn’t want to do the song anymore. Oh well, I picked up the reins and flew like nobody’s business. Great cause for the album, too. Cheers.
“Fine Line” from Little Big Town’s new album “A Place to Land”. They are a little bit big time country… Sometimes I don’t think I hear the twang that’s become so hickster, and perhaps I wouldn’t have submitted them to countrytown, yet they have done so themselves. So be it. They is a’ight. They get old school funk country in the song” Novocain”.
“Call to Arms” from Angels and Airwaves new album “I-Empire”. Even though this band is lead by the former frontman of Blink-182, this group isn’t as cheesy as their bandname suggests. Now I’m not gonna get surly here and bad mouth Blink-182 or Angels and Airwaves for that matter. No, this band deserves a little bit of credibility, for they wrote a song called “Star of Bethlehem”, which I have now seen. It’s actually a beautiful song. I’m sorry that people feel like they have to sabotage musicians by leaking their album onto the internet before the release date. That’s what happened to poor Angels and Airwaves. Lame. Stupid “fans”. Geesh.
American Gangster Soundtrack. Well, Jay-Z was supposed to be on the soundtrack, or have his own soundtrack for this movie, or something like that. Whichever it is, people are pissed. iTunes doesn’t have Jay-Z. So I would put a song from this soundtrack on my list, but out of principal, I am not. Just wanted to let you all know that the album is out. Haven’t seen the movie, but want to, cuz I myself am an American bad-ass gangsta.
“Loose Ends” from Great Northern new EP “Sleepy Eepee”. Love the sleepy eepee part. Love this song. The whole EP is kickass. The melodic tones and outrageous cover art intrigues me. Their sound is Great. Ha ha. Seriously though, if Sheryl Crow and her buddies decided to become modern day Mamas and Papas, this would be it. Great enough for you yet? I’m checkin up on them now. Great.
“NY State of Mind” from Nas “Greatest Hits”. Never before in my New Music blog history has the quotes on the album been so appropriate. I’m sorry, but “Greatest Hits” from NAS??? What?? More like Nasty! Ok. So a hiphop fan I am not. I don’t reach for my Akon or Snoop Dog or Bow Wow or Lol Jon or Ludacris or Mario or Outcast or Sean Paul or T.I or 50 Cent or Young Jog or Nitti or Parrell Williams tracks straight when I get home. I let them grace my iPod because they have some good songs with a good beat and catchy lyrics. You can’t deny that the hiphop industry is here to stay. I chose this song because it’s a different take on the NY that I know and love, and unlike some people I know, I like to hear and understand the other side of the coin of something I am passionate about. Life’s a bitch and then you die, right?
“Book of Lies” from Saga’s new album “10,000 Days”. Well this band is definitely mid-80’s soundtrack material. The have been together since 77, which is cool. What’s not cool is that their lead singer Michael is leaving them at the end of this month. WTF? This song rocks. I’m gonna go get my Mr Pib and leather glove (notice singular not plural on the glove) and rock out to my new found friends Saga.
“Brave” which is Idina Menzel’s new single. You can tell she’s a Broadway star even when she’s singing a normal song. This song Brave is similar to the ballad they have the American Idol sing every year. Even the words “If this is the moment I stand here on my own. If this is my right of passage that some how leads me home” are totally idol. Can’t you picture Kelly or Jordan or even Clay sing it??? Yeah me too. Idina is the star from Wicked and Rent, so I’m not makin fun here. I’m just pointing out that it’s a bit musical theater sounding, and I love musical theater! However, her song from the Desperate Housewives soundtrack doesn’t sound like Broadway at all. So Idina doesn’t have one foot on stage while in the studio after all.
“Headlines” which is the Spice Girls new single. Mostly, these girls make the headlines through their personal lives and not their talents. Oh well, as Americans we are supposed to like that sort of shit, right? Even Perez has fallen under the Spice Girl trance. Step away from the light Perez!! See them for what they truly are! Five has-beens who need money! I must say they all look phenomenal! This song is a bit boring, but the clips I’ve seen of their recent performances are not, so maybe their new album (??!) will be a bit more exciting then “Headlines”. Blech.
“The Girl you lost to Cocaine” from Sia’s new EP “Day Too Soon”. Wow, Sia is wicked cool. She’s naughty and nice all at the same time – good thing cuz Santa’s on his way. She has that flicker in her voice like Fiona, lyrics like Tori, and sassiness like Joss Stone. Her style is totally different from the three I mentioned though. She’s somehow positive while singing about cocaine. How’s that? Well I really can’t say. You must listen for yourselves. I have her “Breathe Me” song from “Colour the Small One” and it’s rad.
“Hijómalind” by Sigur Ros’s album “Hvarf/Heim”. You all probably don’t remember me mentioning an iTunes essential called “Alt. Yoga” a long while back, that contained songs by Mono, Eplosions in the Sky, and Jens Lekman to mane a few, but Sigor Ross was a part of that list as well. I am gonna have to start collecting those tracks, I seem to stumble across these bands that I like and am wanting more. This band is from Iceland, and like the other famous Icelander Bjork, they have that cold eerie instrumental psychedelic sound. Here is my favorite part of this review: they actually are described in the genre of “shoegazing”. SHOEGAZING??? Huh??? That is AWESOME!!! You: “So… how would you best describe your band’s sound?” – Me: “Oh, I’d have to say we fall in the category of SHOEGAZING.” HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!! Must be an Iceland thing.
“Paths in the City” from Richard Youngs' new album “Autumn Response”. Good lord you can actually feel the weather change while listening to this album. The whole thing is perfectly sync with the leaves falling outside my office window. You see the fog settling in, the harvest moon shining, and the smell of the smoke in the fireplace. Amazing and beautiful. IT would be even better if there were no words and just instrumental. We can’t always get what we want, right?
“Little Brother” from Grizzly Bear's new album “Friend”. Anne and I saw Grizzly Bear open for Feist, and I wasn’t super impressed at the time. I was in a funk though. So I was surprised that I really liked the tracks I listened to from this new album of theirs… Sometimes a band live isn’t that great. Sometimes it’s the sound, sometimes it’s their showmanship (or lack there of), sometimes it’s your mood. OR sometimes, they just suck. I think Grizzly Bear’s problem that night was me. This song is contagious. It makes me want to direct the music video for it.
“In Mcdonalds” from the Burial’s new album “Untrue”. Electronic synths being portrayed here need your speakers to be top notch. Other wise you will not be getting the full Burial experience. Definitely club discothèque music here, but I like it. It’s very “Banana Republic” during the holidays – you know the haunting almost Christmas music but it’s not and yet it should be snowing outside to the beat? Yeah you know.
It was an okay week for music. Mainly new stuff for me to check out. And that aint a bad thing!!
“Que Sera, Sera” performed by Damien Rice and David Gray from the album “Live Earth” with various artists titled “Concerts for the Climate Crisis” including Madonna, The Police, Foo Fighters, John Mayer, John Legend, and of course Damien Rice and David Gray to name a few. John Legend sings “Mercy Mercy Me” and I would have picked that song if Corinne Bailey Rae wasn’t singing with him. Ewwwe. David and Damien blend über well for this personal favorite of mine. I will never forget that drunken buffoon singing this at the Alibi karaoke and wanted me to come help him with the song. Turns out he didn’t really care if I sang; he just didn’t want to do the song anymore. Oh well, I picked up the reins and flew like nobody’s business. Great cause for the album, too. Cheers.
“Fine Line” from Little Big Town’s new album “A Place to Land”. They are a little bit big time country… Sometimes I don’t think I hear the twang that’s become so hickster, and perhaps I wouldn’t have submitted them to countrytown, yet they have done so themselves. So be it. They is a’ight. They get old school funk country in the song” Novocain”.
“Call to Arms” from Angels and Airwaves new album “I-Empire”. Even though this band is lead by the former frontman of Blink-182, this group isn’t as cheesy as their bandname suggests. Now I’m not gonna get surly here and bad mouth Blink-182 or Angels and Airwaves for that matter. No, this band deserves a little bit of credibility, for they wrote a song called “Star of Bethlehem”, which I have now seen. It’s actually a beautiful song. I’m sorry that people feel like they have to sabotage musicians by leaking their album onto the internet before the release date. That’s what happened to poor Angels and Airwaves. Lame. Stupid “fans”. Geesh.
American Gangster Soundtrack. Well, Jay-Z was supposed to be on the soundtrack, or have his own soundtrack for this movie, or something like that. Whichever it is, people are pissed. iTunes doesn’t have Jay-Z. So I would put a song from this soundtrack on my list, but out of principal, I am not. Just wanted to let you all know that the album is out. Haven’t seen the movie, but want to, cuz I myself am an American bad-ass gangsta.
“Loose Ends” from Great Northern new EP “Sleepy Eepee”. Love the sleepy eepee part. Love this song. The whole EP is kickass. The melodic tones and outrageous cover art intrigues me. Their sound is Great. Ha ha. Seriously though, if Sheryl Crow and her buddies decided to become modern day Mamas and Papas, this would be it. Great enough for you yet? I’m checkin up on them now. Great.
“NY State of Mind” from Nas “Greatest Hits”. Never before in my New Music blog history has the quotes on the album been so appropriate. I’m sorry, but “Greatest Hits” from NAS??? What?? More like Nasty! Ok. So a hiphop fan I am not. I don’t reach for my Akon or Snoop Dog or Bow Wow or Lol Jon or Ludacris or Mario or Outcast or Sean Paul or T.I or 50 Cent or Young Jog or Nitti or Parrell Williams tracks straight when I get home. I let them grace my iPod because they have some good songs with a good beat and catchy lyrics. You can’t deny that the hiphop industry is here to stay. I chose this song because it’s a different take on the NY that I know and love, and unlike some people I know, I like to hear and understand the other side of the coin of something I am passionate about. Life’s a bitch and then you die, right?
“Book of Lies” from Saga’s new album “10,000 Days”. Well this band is definitely mid-80’s soundtrack material. The have been together since 77, which is cool. What’s not cool is that their lead singer Michael is leaving them at the end of this month. WTF? This song rocks. I’m gonna go get my Mr Pib and leather glove (notice singular not plural on the glove) and rock out to my new found friends Saga.
“Brave” which is Idina Menzel’s new single. You can tell she’s a Broadway star even when she’s singing a normal song. This song Brave is similar to the ballad they have the American Idol sing every year. Even the words “If this is the moment I stand here on my own. If this is my right of passage that some how leads me home” are totally idol. Can’t you picture Kelly or Jordan or even Clay sing it??? Yeah me too. Idina is the star from Wicked and Rent, so I’m not makin fun here. I’m just pointing out that it’s a bit musical theater sounding, and I love musical theater! However, her song from the Desperate Housewives soundtrack doesn’t sound like Broadway at all. So Idina doesn’t have one foot on stage while in the studio after all.
“Headlines” which is the Spice Girls new single. Mostly, these girls make the headlines through their personal lives and not their talents. Oh well, as Americans we are supposed to like that sort of shit, right? Even Perez has fallen under the Spice Girl trance. Step away from the light Perez!! See them for what they truly are! Five has-beens who need money! I must say they all look phenomenal! This song is a bit boring, but the clips I’ve seen of their recent performances are not, so maybe their new album (??!) will be a bit more exciting then “Headlines”. Blech.
“The Girl you lost to Cocaine” from Sia’s new EP “Day Too Soon”. Wow, Sia is wicked cool. She’s naughty and nice all at the same time – good thing cuz Santa’s on his way. She has that flicker in her voice like Fiona, lyrics like Tori, and sassiness like Joss Stone. Her style is totally different from the three I mentioned though. She’s somehow positive while singing about cocaine. How’s that? Well I really can’t say. You must listen for yourselves. I have her “Breathe Me” song from “Colour the Small One” and it’s rad.
“Hijómalind” by Sigur Ros’s album “Hvarf/Heim”. You all probably don’t remember me mentioning an iTunes essential called “Alt. Yoga” a long while back, that contained songs by Mono, Eplosions in the Sky, and Jens Lekman to mane a few, but Sigor Ross was a part of that list as well. I am gonna have to start collecting those tracks, I seem to stumble across these bands that I like and am wanting more. This band is from Iceland, and like the other famous Icelander Bjork, they have that cold eerie instrumental psychedelic sound. Here is my favorite part of this review: they actually are described in the genre of “shoegazing”. SHOEGAZING??? Huh??? That is AWESOME!!! You: “So… how would you best describe your band’s sound?” – Me: “Oh, I’d have to say we fall in the category of SHOEGAZING.” HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!! Must be an Iceland thing.
“Paths in the City” from Richard Youngs' new album “Autumn Response”. Good lord you can actually feel the weather change while listening to this album. The whole thing is perfectly sync with the leaves falling outside my office window. You see the fog settling in, the harvest moon shining, and the smell of the smoke in the fireplace. Amazing and beautiful. IT would be even better if there were no words and just instrumental. We can’t always get what we want, right?
“Little Brother” from Grizzly Bear's new album “Friend”. Anne and I saw Grizzly Bear open for Feist, and I wasn’t super impressed at the time. I was in a funk though. So I was surprised that I really liked the tracks I listened to from this new album of theirs… Sometimes a band live isn’t that great. Sometimes it’s the sound, sometimes it’s their showmanship (or lack there of), sometimes it’s your mood. OR sometimes, they just suck. I think Grizzly Bear’s problem that night was me. This song is contagious. It makes me want to direct the music video for it.
“In Mcdonalds” from the Burial’s new album “Untrue”. Electronic synths being portrayed here need your speakers to be top notch. Other wise you will not be getting the full Burial experience. Definitely club discothèque music here, but I like it. It’s very “Banana Republic” during the holidays – you know the haunting almost Christmas music but it’s not and yet it should be snowing outside to the beat? Yeah you know.
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