I’m horrible at being ghetto, but that’s not the point. The point is that I’m good at finding awesome tunes to keep my friends occupied. Maybe it’s a sixth sense, or some superhero power I gained when I was exposed to radiation, or maybe it’s just a talent. Although I can’t begin to explain my superhuman abilities, I can use them for the greater musical good.
The new supergroup, The Good, The Bad, and the Queen, may have a ridiculously long name, but they make music that’s at least as ridiculously good. “Kingdom of Doom” has odd guitar noise and a steady bass line that lends it an eerie British sound. It sounds like the Gorillaz slamming out rock songs in a haunted Victorian house. On the rest of their debut, they bounce out reggae beats (“History Song”,) techno music with bumpy piano (“Herculean”,) and sprightly piano with bouncy, yet mellow guitar (“80s Life.”) Listen to their whole album on Myspace.
Being the little pushover that I am, I can’t help but wait with briskly beating heart for the new Fall Out Boy release, “Infinity on High.” The boys know where to place a hook, and they’re just so darn cute, plus, based on the song “Carpal Tunnel of Love” their new album will be the break up album of ‘07. Just a little heads up to all my emo friends (you know who you are!)
I’ve been infected by the Lily Allen bug. Her music is bubble gum, pure musical candy without nutritional value, but worth your time just for the fun you’ll have listening to her snarky commentary on relationships (“Smile”) and Kate Moss (“Everything’s Just Wonderful.”)
For fans of local music, Boston’s female fronted band My Little Radio will be hosting their CD release party at TT the Bear’s on February 2nd. For people who don’t know My Little Radio’s music, it sounds kind of like Flyleaf meets Paramore, and absolutely nothing like the fabulous Dresden Dolls.
Sometimes when a band or artist has a lot of chatter circulating online and blurbs in big magazines, when everyone seems to hear something different in their music, I don’t hear anything. I have a horrible time trying to find something interesting in music that everyone else seems to be touting. After a little break from the gossip, I can usually find something I like about any kind of music. Here are a few good bands/musicians I’ve ignored in the past because they were already receiving a ton of buzz:
Cold War Kids
Brett Dennen
Death From Above 1979 (no longer together)
Iron & Wine (Like I’ve said before, I was late on the whole Garden State thing.)
KT Tunstall
The Raconteurs
Los Abandoned
Old Crow Medicine Show
I want to finish you guys off with something old yet exceedingly interesting; Hobbit. Yes, they’re named after the race of miniscule hairy beings from the J.R.R. Tolkien books. Yes, all of their songs are about the plots of said books. Yes, they are a cheesy prog rock band. But if it weren’t for these three little things, Hobbit would be huge. They basically rip off Led Zeppelin, but then what self-respecting rock band doesn’t?
16 January, 2007
09 January, 2007
Sun Gods Rock '06
I had few expectations for my last concert of 2006. Despite the fact that Apollo Sunshine is one of my favorite bands, I’ve been disappointed by their shows in the past. Yet, I can honestly say that this last show was the best I’d seen all year. There was an atmosphere of excited expectation; the crowd was ready, and as the music progressed more people parted ways with their egos and unabashedly screamed the lyrics.
Opening ska band, Captain Mojo and the Cat’s Pajamas rocked the local crowd and inspired an impromptu skanking circle. Their music was undeniably fun and they play their instruments well, an uncommon talent in young ska bands. Baker followed Captain Mojo, and although new to most of the crowd, they certainly deserved every approving shout they received (quite a few.) A lone beat-boxer performed before the headliners, and despite his lukewarm welcome, boxed formidably. I was more than pleasantly surprised by the talent of all these artists, so when Apollo Sunshine graced the stage with their massive presence I was pretty excited.
Apollo Sunshine can put on a show. Starting with fan favorites “Phoney Marony” and “Today is the Day,” the crowd quickly acclimated to the sound and danced throughout the show (even improvising their way through lengthy guitar, keyboard, and drum solos.) Jesse Gallagher, Sam Cohen, and Jeremy Black played many songs from their first album, Katonah, including “I Was On The Moon,” “The Egg,” and “Mayday Disorder.” After an amazing set, the boys returned to play an encore that probably lasted twenty minutes. This consisted of three songs from their latest self-titled CD, “Eyes,” “Lord,” and “Phyliss.” For their final song Apollo Sunshine were joined onstage by many guests including all of Baker. The multiple musicians gathered around the drum set, banging on percussion instruments, throwing guitars, and adding to the chaos that is “Phyliss.” When the lights turned on, the crowd seemed in a musical coma, we slowly found our bearings and our jackets, and trudged into the cool night air.
Opening ska band, Captain Mojo and the Cat’s Pajamas rocked the local crowd and inspired an impromptu skanking circle. Their music was undeniably fun and they play their instruments well, an uncommon talent in young ska bands. Baker followed Captain Mojo, and although new to most of the crowd, they certainly deserved every approving shout they received (quite a few.) A lone beat-boxer performed before the headliners, and despite his lukewarm welcome, boxed formidably. I was more than pleasantly surprised by the talent of all these artists, so when Apollo Sunshine graced the stage with their massive presence I was pretty excited.
Apollo Sunshine can put on a show. Starting with fan favorites “Phoney Marony” and “Today is the Day,” the crowd quickly acclimated to the sound and danced throughout the show (even improvising their way through lengthy guitar, keyboard, and drum solos.) Jesse Gallagher, Sam Cohen, and Jeremy Black played many songs from their first album, Katonah, including “I Was On The Moon,” “The Egg,” and “Mayday Disorder.” After an amazing set, the boys returned to play an encore that probably lasted twenty minutes. This consisted of three songs from their latest self-titled CD, “Eyes,” “Lord,” and “Phyliss.” For their final song Apollo Sunshine were joined onstage by many guests including all of Baker. The multiple musicians gathered around the drum set, banging on percussion instruments, throwing guitars, and adding to the chaos that is “Phyliss.” When the lights turned on, the crowd seemed in a musical coma, we slowly found our bearings and our jackets, and trudged into the cool night air.
02 January, 2007
Looking Forward
Very few albums are released in the weeks after Christmas and New Years, but despite the temporary lull, 2007 will be a big year for music. Like ‘06, ‘07 will be a year of big names (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Justin Timberlake, Bob Dylan, Jay-Z) and surprising hits (The Fray, Gnarls Barkley, The Raconteurs, O-ZONE.) There’s a lot to look forward to, and plenty to be weary of in the world of music, but one thing is certain, ‘07 will be an interesting year.
At the end of January, Norah Jones will drop the appropriately titled “Not Too Late.” I was a bit underwhelmed with her second album, “Feels Like Home”, because she didn’t really seem to break from the mold of “Come Away With Me.” Yes, the album was pretty, but I just expected more from Jones. I think Jones, like Mayer, needed a little time to figure out what her “sound” actually sounds like. I’m encouraged to try this new album, based on my knowledge of Norah’s side projects. She’s most definitely branching out, working with Peeping Tom (a.k.a. Mike Patton) on “Sucker,” a song far from any dinner party soundtrack. Her work with the Little Willies was also an encouraging break from the world of “adult contemporary.” With the Willies, Norah covered country favorites and a few rock songs. She also appeared on “Virginia Moon,” a song from the latest Foo Fighters album. These various projects lead me to believe that Jones is experimenting, and, in my opinion, experimentation is what she needs to give her music new life.
Coming out a little earlier than the Jones release is the Shins’ latest, “Wincing the Night Away.” Based on the single “Phantom Limb,” the Shins have branched out again, but retained the sound that makes them different and exciting. “Phantom Limb” is jangly, yet substantial. It’s reminiscent of the ‘60s, but also very much a product of its time. I honestly don’t know what to expect from the Shins’ third release. The Shins did not succumb to the infamous sophomore slump, they’ve consistently made good music, and I am keeping my fingers crossed that “Wincing the Night Away” will surprise and delight me as much as “Oh, Inverted World” and “Chutes Too Narrow.”
The Shins and Norah Jones are the artists whose music I await with the most anticipation during the month of January, but I don’t want to look too far into the future. Personally, I enjoy a few surprises through the year.
At the end of January, Norah Jones will drop the appropriately titled “Not Too Late.” I was a bit underwhelmed with her second album, “Feels Like Home”, because she didn’t really seem to break from the mold of “Come Away With Me.” Yes, the album was pretty, but I just expected more from Jones. I think Jones, like Mayer, needed a little time to figure out what her “sound” actually sounds like. I’m encouraged to try this new album, based on my knowledge of Norah’s side projects. She’s most definitely branching out, working with Peeping Tom (a.k.a. Mike Patton) on “Sucker,” a song far from any dinner party soundtrack. Her work with the Little Willies was also an encouraging break from the world of “adult contemporary.” With the Willies, Norah covered country favorites and a few rock songs. She also appeared on “Virginia Moon,” a song from the latest Foo Fighters album. These various projects lead me to believe that Jones is experimenting, and, in my opinion, experimentation is what she needs to give her music new life.
Coming out a little earlier than the Jones release is the Shins’ latest, “Wincing the Night Away.” Based on the single “Phantom Limb,” the Shins have branched out again, but retained the sound that makes them different and exciting. “Phantom Limb” is jangly, yet substantial. It’s reminiscent of the ‘60s, but also very much a product of its time. I honestly don’t know what to expect from the Shins’ third release. The Shins did not succumb to the infamous sophomore slump, they’ve consistently made good music, and I am keeping my fingers crossed that “Wincing the Night Away” will surprise and delight me as much as “Oh, Inverted World” and “Chutes Too Narrow.”
The Shins and Norah Jones are the artists whose music I await with the most anticipation during the month of January, but I don’t want to look too far into the future. Personally, I enjoy a few surprises through the year.
Reaching Back (Rediscovering Old Favorites)
Sometimes, I become overloaded with new music. I just can’t process all of the new sounds that I hear, and I have to take a break and listen to something comfortable. I’ve found that even when I’m completely sick of the “usual” (which changes very often, but is generally sprinkled with Rancid, The Specials, Led Zeppelin, Green Day, The Cars, etc.) I can find something classic and unexpected that makes the world feel right. These songs are the “homemade macaroni and cheese” of music; it’s comfort food for your ears.
“I Want You To Want Me” by Cheap Trick. It’s one of those songs that fits any mood. If you’re feeling good the beat matches your upbeat mood, and if you’re feeling low the lyrics are perfect for drowning your sorrows.
“Rudy Can’t Fail” by The Clash. This song is absolutely classic. The Clash bring in so many influences musically and the lyrics are great on this tune. Ska horns and a point; just because your life works for you, doesn’t mean it’s the life for me.
“Boxcar” by Jawbreaker. I happened upon this band about a year ago, and had to ask myself why they hadn’t garnered more recognition during their career. Green Day lifts the tune for “She’s a Rebel” and the lyrics tell a similar story. It’s short, but sweet.
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” by Jimi Hendrix. It’s an obvious classic. Get lost in Jimi’s guitar.
“Spin” by Lifehouse. One of the few Christian bands that I absolutely love. I think what sets Lifehouse apart is their ability to craft music that applies to all lifestyles (Christian or otherwise.) The lyrics are great.
“Time” by Pink Floyd. “The Dark Side of the Moon” is an amazing album and this song absolutely sums it up for me. One Winter, I listened to it on repeat (think about that, seven minutes on constant repeat.)
“Strong Enough” by Sheryl Crow. I’m not always a Sheryl Crow fan, but this song is absolutely beautiful. It breaks my heart, and then mends it.
“The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel. I love when things that seem completely different are connected, so I was blown away when I realized that Rush uses (and slightly changes) a verse from this song. The lyrics are amazing and I love the percussion. If you were wondering about those lyrics, here they are:
“...And the signs said, the words of the prophets
Are written on the subway walls
And tenement halls
And whispered in the sounds of silence.”
- Simon & Garfunkel
and
“...For the words of the profits were written on the studio wall,
Concert hall
And echoes with the sounds of salesmen.”
- Rush
“Funky Kingston” by Toots and the Maytals. This song is just unbelievably fun to listen to. It builds and builds into this monster of a ska tune.
“Baba O’Riley” by the Who. It doesn’t matter what time of day, week, year, decade; what kind of mood I’m in; or what kind of people I’m with, I will always listen to this song. “I don’t need to be forgiven.”
“I Want You To Want Me” by Cheap Trick. It’s one of those songs that fits any mood. If you’re feeling good the beat matches your upbeat mood, and if you’re feeling low the lyrics are perfect for drowning your sorrows.
“Rudy Can’t Fail” by The Clash. This song is absolutely classic. The Clash bring in so many influences musically and the lyrics are great on this tune. Ska horns and a point; just because your life works for you, doesn’t mean it’s the life for me.
“Boxcar” by Jawbreaker. I happened upon this band about a year ago, and had to ask myself why they hadn’t garnered more recognition during their career. Green Day lifts the tune for “She’s a Rebel” and the lyrics tell a similar story. It’s short, but sweet.
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” by Jimi Hendrix. It’s an obvious classic. Get lost in Jimi’s guitar.
“Spin” by Lifehouse. One of the few Christian bands that I absolutely love. I think what sets Lifehouse apart is their ability to craft music that applies to all lifestyles (Christian or otherwise.) The lyrics are great.
“Time” by Pink Floyd. “The Dark Side of the Moon” is an amazing album and this song absolutely sums it up for me. One Winter, I listened to it on repeat (think about that, seven minutes on constant repeat.)
“Strong Enough” by Sheryl Crow. I’m not always a Sheryl Crow fan, but this song is absolutely beautiful. It breaks my heart, and then mends it.
“The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel. I love when things that seem completely different are connected, so I was blown away when I realized that Rush uses (and slightly changes) a verse from this song. The lyrics are amazing and I love the percussion. If you were wondering about those lyrics, here they are:
“...And the signs said, the words of the prophets
Are written on the subway walls
And tenement halls
And whispered in the sounds of silence.”
- Simon & Garfunkel
and
“...For the words of the profits were written on the studio wall,
Concert hall
And echoes with the sounds of salesmen.”
- Rush
“Funky Kingston” by Toots and the Maytals. This song is just unbelievably fun to listen to. It builds and builds into this monster of a ska tune.
“Baba O’Riley” by the Who. It doesn’t matter what time of day, week, year, decade; what kind of mood I’m in; or what kind of people I’m with, I will always listen to this song. “I don’t need to be forgiven.”
31 December, 2006
Happy New Year!!!
Check this out: http://music.aol.com/artist/o-zone/310147/main#
Watch the "Dragostea Din Tei" video and laugh your ass off!!
HAVE AN AWESOME NEW YEAR!!!
Watch the "Dragostea Din Tei" video and laugh your ass off!!
HAVE AN AWESOME NEW YEAR!!!
19 December, 2006
"The Best Way of Spreading Christmas Cheer, Is By Singing Loud For All To Hear!"
I’m a fan of Christmas music, mostly because, by and large, it’s happy music. People don’t usually write Christmas music about broken hearts, deceased family, and war (although it isn’t unheard of; “Happy Christmas (War is Over)” and “Last Christmas” are two popular examples.) The month of December is one time of year when you’re allowed to be silly and happy, instead of the usual required cultural attitude of jaded and ironic cynicism.
I do have Christmas music likes and dislikes. I’m a big fan of laid-back jazz Christmas music. The Vince Guaraldi Trio’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas” album is an example of one of my personal favorites, it’s classic without being kitschy, and it has the added benefit of being music that can be enjoyed throughout the year. I also like the standards, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole; all great voices with character. Stevie Wonder, lends a spiritual and soulful feeling to all of his music, so when he sings “What Christmas Means to Me” you know he’ll make it meaningful.
You’ll find a few oddities in my collection, but nothing less than genius. Take for example, “Christmas in Hollis” by Run-DMC. It’s the only holiday rap song that I know of, although I don’t pretend to know everything. Being punk (and Jewish) didn’t stop the Ramones from making a Christmas song, and “Merry Christmas (I Don’t Wanna Fight Tonight)” certainly takes three-chord punk to a different level. Also on my list is the classic “Father Christmas” by the Kinks, which is a rocking packet of holiday-flavored social commentary.
Of course, you can also find some closet Christmas music in my collection. I’m an unabashed fan of Mariah Carey’s “All I want for Christmas Is You”, Destiny’s Child’s “8 Days of Christmas”, and Jose Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad.” My new favorite Christmas song is from The Polar Express soundtrack, “Believe” by Josh Groban, and I’m not sure if it’s the lyrics or Josh’s voice that make me tear up (from an overabundance of happiness) whenever I hear the song.
A couple of Christmas songs I dislike? Well, “Dominic the Donkey” is pretty annoying and “All I want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth” gives me a headache. The worst Christmas song, in my humble opinion, is “The Christmas Shoes” by NewSong . I don’t dislike it because it’s country music, I dislike it because the story is sad, sappy, and contrived. Rudolph and Frosty don’t bother me in the least, but indie Christmas music kind of creeps me out. I don’t have any good reason for disliking indie Christmas music, it just gives me a weird feeling. I guess it’s like emo kids trying to be happy, it just feels wrong.
Merry Christmas to all my readers! Leave me your thoughts and personal Christmas favorites. If you don’t celebrate Christmas, pick another holiday themed song or even a song centered around the winter season and share with your favorite blogger (me)!
I do have Christmas music likes and dislikes. I’m a big fan of laid-back jazz Christmas music. The Vince Guaraldi Trio’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas” album is an example of one of my personal favorites, it’s classic without being kitschy, and it has the added benefit of being music that can be enjoyed throughout the year. I also like the standards, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole; all great voices with character. Stevie Wonder, lends a spiritual and soulful feeling to all of his music, so when he sings “What Christmas Means to Me” you know he’ll make it meaningful.
You’ll find a few oddities in my collection, but nothing less than genius. Take for example, “Christmas in Hollis” by Run-DMC. It’s the only holiday rap song that I know of, although I don’t pretend to know everything. Being punk (and Jewish) didn’t stop the Ramones from making a Christmas song, and “Merry Christmas (I Don’t Wanna Fight Tonight)” certainly takes three-chord punk to a different level. Also on my list is the classic “Father Christmas” by the Kinks, which is a rocking packet of holiday-flavored social commentary.
Of course, you can also find some closet Christmas music in my collection. I’m an unabashed fan of Mariah Carey’s “All I want for Christmas Is You”, Destiny’s Child’s “8 Days of Christmas”, and Jose Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad.” My new favorite Christmas song is from The Polar Express soundtrack, “Believe” by Josh Groban, and I’m not sure if it’s the lyrics or Josh’s voice that make me tear up (from an overabundance of happiness) whenever I hear the song.
A couple of Christmas songs I dislike? Well, “Dominic the Donkey” is pretty annoying and “All I want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth” gives me a headache. The worst Christmas song, in my humble opinion, is “The Christmas Shoes” by NewSong . I don’t dislike it because it’s country music, I dislike it because the story is sad, sappy, and contrived. Rudolph and Frosty don’t bother me in the least, but indie Christmas music kind of creeps me out. I don’t have any good reason for disliking indie Christmas music, it just gives me a weird feeling. I guess it’s like emo kids trying to be happy, it just feels wrong.
Merry Christmas to all my readers! Leave me your thoughts and personal Christmas favorites. If you don’t celebrate Christmas, pick another holiday themed song or even a song centered around the winter season and share with your favorite blogger (me)!
12 December, 2006
I Love Alliteration!!
Which makes me love Tally Hall's album, "Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum" even more. Once in awhile, maybe every year, I come across an artist that just makes me think 'Wow, was I under a rock? How did I miss these guys?' Usually, I'm just a little bit ahead of the game and I get to watch (and sometimes help) these artists grow in popularity, spreading their beautiful music to the masses. Lately, it's been Apollo Sunshine, Zox, and Gogol Bordello and, I'm hoping it will now be Tally Hall.
"Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum" reminds me quite a bit of Apollo Sunshine's "Katonah." I think this similarity is due to the fact that both bands experiment with their sound throughout the album. Tally Hall's opening tune, "Good Day" includes robotic/operatic vocals, piano, rock guitars, and some random blasting sound effects that caused me to believe my headphones were broken. Not to imply that it is anything but fun to listen to "Good Day", it initiates you in the odd Tally Hall world, while making your ears happy. The second song, "Greener", is almost more jolting than the opener, given it's tendency to sound "normal" at first listen. When you really listen to "Greener", it's becomes obvious that it's only normal in the world of Tally Hall where random instruments make unexpected appearances every day. By the time you reach the third song you know you've really found something different! "Welcome to Tally Hall" is a rap song, with horns, all kinds of percussion, and a carnivalesque atmosphere that surrounds your ears.
The whole album makes me happy, and at this time of year it's a nice alternative to, well, anything on the radio. I've been informed by a good source that their live show is amazing. I would definitely take a listen to these boys if I were you. They've been spinning non-stop in my CD player for the last week, and I only got their album a week ago.
"Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum" reminds me quite a bit of Apollo Sunshine's "Katonah." I think this similarity is due to the fact that both bands experiment with their sound throughout the album. Tally Hall's opening tune, "Good Day" includes robotic/operatic vocals, piano, rock guitars, and some random blasting sound effects that caused me to believe my headphones were broken. Not to imply that it is anything but fun to listen to "Good Day", it initiates you in the odd Tally Hall world, while making your ears happy. The second song, "Greener", is almost more jolting than the opener, given it's tendency to sound "normal" at first listen. When you really listen to "Greener", it's becomes obvious that it's only normal in the world of Tally Hall where random instruments make unexpected appearances every day. By the time you reach the third song you know you've really found something different! "Welcome to Tally Hall" is a rap song, with horns, all kinds of percussion, and a carnivalesque atmosphere that surrounds your ears.
The whole album makes me happy, and at this time of year it's a nice alternative to, well, anything on the radio. I've been informed by a good source that their live show is amazing. I would definitely take a listen to these boys if I were you. They've been spinning non-stop in my CD player for the last week, and I only got their album a week ago.
05 December, 2006
The Many Faces of Modern Folk
Folk music is an interesting thing. You can trace it through the years; from campfire songs shared by tribes to ballads sung for kings. It stretches far and wide in music, influencing every genre imaginable and taking the form of musical poetry. Folk is the music of the storyteller, and the lyrics are generally more important than the instrumentals. Folk is very diverse, all of the songs take a similar form, but similarity is relative. Flowers are similar, but no one would say that an orchid and a dandelion are basically the same thing. Take a listen to the stories these musicians have to tell, they are the stories of our times and they are as similar to each other as orchids and dandelions.
“Fidelity” by Regina Spektor
From Regina’s latest masterpiece “Begin to Hope,” the melody is deceivingly simple. Lyrically, this song is about heartbreak, it’s about trying to hide yourself in music, trying to protect yourself, and failing miserably. In the event of real-life heartbreak, Regina’s voice is really all the music you need and her lyrics are comforting and genuine. Regina Spektor knows where you’re coming from.
“Moon Over the Freeway” by the Ditty Bops
Their ridiculously catchy music sounds like something that could’ve been played on the radio in the ‘40s, or earlier. Their new album is an escape from modern living. This song is extremely lighthearted, and although it may sometimes feel more like swing than folk it is so evocative of an era and a certain front porch feeling, that it pulls you into a different time and place, telling you a story.
“Weather Report” by Bright Eyes
It’s always a story you hear when Conor Oberst sings. I hate to commit musical sacrilege, but his lyrics in “Weather Report” remind me of Bob Dylan. It’s not just an overall revelatory story, it’s a story that shows you something about yourself, or about your culture, or about your world in every line. For example:
“And the time clocks keep waving their hands
Doin all that they can
To get our attention
But the days fly away down a clean interstate
I’m staring drunk at a map...”
It’s sad, funny, and true. How do we value our time? And, even when we’ve been told “time is of the essence” do we listen? It’s one small part of a song that can tell you a lot if you take the time to listen to the lyrics.
“Lullaby” by Jack Johnson & Matt Costa
From the most amazing “Curious George” soundtrack, Jack and Matt sing a lullaby. My favorite part of Elliott Smith’s music, will always be his ability to make the listener relax and let down their guard. Mr. Smith also crafted, beautiful and sometimes unbearably sad music. What Jack Johnson does is similar, but different. Johnson creates a song, like a lullaby, that lulls you into relaxation, then he peppers your daydreams with “Banana Pancakes” and “Constellations.” It’s really beautiful, and the fact that he can celebrate happiness and truth through folk music, easily sets him apart from his contemporaries.
“Fidelity” by Regina Spektor
From Regina’s latest masterpiece “Begin to Hope,” the melody is deceivingly simple. Lyrically, this song is about heartbreak, it’s about trying to hide yourself in music, trying to protect yourself, and failing miserably. In the event of real-life heartbreak, Regina’s voice is really all the music you need and her lyrics are comforting and genuine. Regina Spektor knows where you’re coming from.
“Moon Over the Freeway” by the Ditty Bops
Their ridiculously catchy music sounds like something that could’ve been played on the radio in the ‘40s, or earlier. Their new album is an escape from modern living. This song is extremely lighthearted, and although it may sometimes feel more like swing than folk it is so evocative of an era and a certain front porch feeling, that it pulls you into a different time and place, telling you a story.
“Weather Report” by Bright Eyes
It’s always a story you hear when Conor Oberst sings. I hate to commit musical sacrilege, but his lyrics in “Weather Report” remind me of Bob Dylan. It’s not just an overall revelatory story, it’s a story that shows you something about yourself, or about your culture, or about your world in every line. For example:
“And the time clocks keep waving their hands
Doin all that they can
To get our attention
But the days fly away down a clean interstate
I’m staring drunk at a map...”
It’s sad, funny, and true. How do we value our time? And, even when we’ve been told “time is of the essence” do we listen? It’s one small part of a song that can tell you a lot if you take the time to listen to the lyrics.
“Lullaby” by Jack Johnson & Matt Costa
From the most amazing “Curious George” soundtrack, Jack and Matt sing a lullaby. My favorite part of Elliott Smith’s music, will always be his ability to make the listener relax and let down their guard. Mr. Smith also crafted, beautiful and sometimes unbearably sad music. What Jack Johnson does is similar, but different. Johnson creates a song, like a lullaby, that lulls you into relaxation, then he peppers your daydreams with “Banana Pancakes” and “Constellations.” It’s really beautiful, and the fact that he can celebrate happiness and truth through folk music, easily sets him apart from his contemporaries.
28 November, 2006
The Innovators
In our computerized world, technology changes rapidly. Ten years ago, everyone used VHS tapes and CDs which have now gone the way of the 8-track, cassette tape, and vinyl record. The internet generation’s MP3s have created controversy in the music business. The industry first struck back by causing the fall of the giant free file-sharing services. “The innovators” who saw the potential for instant music access turned file-sharing into file-downloading, and the legal availability of instant access has recently caused multiple large music chain stores to shut their doors (as well as the small independents that are rarely mentioned.) The other reason these music superstores have fallen is that the freewheeling facade that has been the “face” of the music industry since the mid 20th century was finally destroyed. There is absolutely nothing “freewheeling” about rich men suing kids for stealing music, and many people just don’t feel comfortable buying music from “the man.” Unfortunately, people don’t seem to understand that the music business is a business. When iTunes has a total stranglehold on the market, then we’ll see who’s the new “man.”
Personally, I was an early adopter of legal downloading services and I understand the charm of immediate access and availability. You can log into iTunes and buy an album as soon as it’s available, and there is no possibility of it being sold out. You can also preview all of the tracks on the album, which is a giant step up from deciding to buy a CD based on the cover art. In my opinion though, in gaining immediate musical gratification, you lose some of the art. I still buy actual hardcopy CDs much more often than I download CDs, and the reason for this is that I miss the tangible object when I download. Besides just listening to a CD, I like to read the lyrics and thank yous from the band, and pour over the artwork. Maybe I’m old-fashioned, but I enjoy having a real case for my CDs, not a piece of computer paper folded into an envelope with poorly drawn hearts on the cover. I also like the idea of buying CDs at artist’s shows, where you can actually talk to the people who get your money. Despite the numerous reasons for buying hardcopy CDs, now that people have embraced the idea of downloading, there’s really no going back. Instant gratification is the catch-phrase of my generation, and iTunes has packaged that in a very attractive and sleek way.
Yet, new innovators are always on the horizon, and the innovators in this case are the artists themselves. Harvey Danger, the band best known for their neurotic hit “Flagpole Sitta” has released their latest album “Little By Little” in stores and online, but not in the usual way. To get their music out in the world, Harvey Danger offers their latest album as a completely free download on their website, but also gives the music-lover a chance to purchase their album through their online store. The “physical version” includes a bonus disk and there are different level packages that include t-shirts, stickers, and buttons. In this way, Harvey Danger is giving their fans immediate access to excellent music and the ability to buy their CD straight from the source. You can read Harvey Danger’s well-written reasons for making their new CD free on the Harvey Danger website: http://www.harveydanger.com/press/why.php
Another extremely talented and innovative band has taken the reigns with its musical freedom, and this band’s name is Lucero. With their new CD “Rebels, Rogues & Sworn Brothers”, Lucero has been advertising a promo-special where you can buy a hard copy of their new CD through their website and receive an instant digital download. The cost of the CD is only slightly more than a download from iTunes, and you receive immediate access to very good music, a CD in the mail, some rad pins, and the good feeling you get when you do something worthwhile.
It’s always worthwhile to support great music, especially when you can cut out the middlemen who make the music less of an art. There is nothing wrong with making money from music if you’re distributing a good product and not taking advantage of people, and Harvey Danger and Lucero have enough faith in their product that they are willing to take chances. This is what innovators do, and, in my opinion, these artists are the next innovators in the flailing music business.
Personally, I was an early adopter of legal downloading services and I understand the charm of immediate access and availability. You can log into iTunes and buy an album as soon as it’s available, and there is no possibility of it being sold out. You can also preview all of the tracks on the album, which is a giant step up from deciding to buy a CD based on the cover art. In my opinion though, in gaining immediate musical gratification, you lose some of the art. I still buy actual hardcopy CDs much more often than I download CDs, and the reason for this is that I miss the tangible object when I download. Besides just listening to a CD, I like to read the lyrics and thank yous from the band, and pour over the artwork. Maybe I’m old-fashioned, but I enjoy having a real case for my CDs, not a piece of computer paper folded into an envelope with poorly drawn hearts on the cover. I also like the idea of buying CDs at artist’s shows, where you can actually talk to the people who get your money. Despite the numerous reasons for buying hardcopy CDs, now that people have embraced the idea of downloading, there’s really no going back. Instant gratification is the catch-phrase of my generation, and iTunes has packaged that in a very attractive and sleek way.
Yet, new innovators are always on the horizon, and the innovators in this case are the artists themselves. Harvey Danger, the band best known for their neurotic hit “Flagpole Sitta” has released their latest album “Little By Little” in stores and online, but not in the usual way. To get their music out in the world, Harvey Danger offers their latest album as a completely free download on their website, but also gives the music-lover a chance to purchase their album through their online store. The “physical version” includes a bonus disk and there are different level packages that include t-shirts, stickers, and buttons. In this way, Harvey Danger is giving their fans immediate access to excellent music and the ability to buy their CD straight from the source. You can read Harvey Danger’s well-written reasons for making their new CD free on the Harvey Danger website: http://www.harveydanger.com/press/why.php
Another extremely talented and innovative band has taken the reigns with its musical freedom, and this band’s name is Lucero. With their new CD “Rebels, Rogues & Sworn Brothers”, Lucero has been advertising a promo-special where you can buy a hard copy of their new CD through their website and receive an instant digital download. The cost of the CD is only slightly more than a download from iTunes, and you receive immediate access to very good music, a CD in the mail, some rad pins, and the good feeling you get when you do something worthwhile.
It’s always worthwhile to support great music, especially when you can cut out the middlemen who make the music less of an art. There is nothing wrong with making money from music if you’re distributing a good product and not taking advantage of people, and Harvey Danger and Lucero have enough faith in their product that they are willing to take chances. This is what innovators do, and, in my opinion, these artists are the next innovators in the flailing music business.
We Got the Beats
We music connoisseurs like to think that we’re always discerning when it comes to our musical choices, but loud music and the need to dance sometimes override our best efforts. We’ve all been in that position where our “closet music” starts playing on the radio and we just have to turn it up. Many of us have also been in a situation where a member of an older generation questions the propriety of a beat or lyric. Yet, despite the belief of much of the population over twenty, not all hip-hop is composed of breakneck beats and bad-ass lyrics (not that those songs aren’t fun too!) Like any musical genre, hip-hop has gone through many transitions and survived the power of many sub-genres. The most popular artists aren’t necessarily the best or the most interesting, but sometimes their music is fun. Like all music, hip-hop has a huge number of artists doing different things, and plenty of hip-hop music is worth listening to for more than just beats. The following artists are definitely worth your time:
Edan from Boston is a master of flow and sound. His music and lyrics are interesting, and they work well together, unlike some hip-hop music where the music and lyrics either battle for superiority or are both less than interesting. Beauty & The Beat showcases Edan’s rhythmic and lyrical prowess.
Lupe Fiasco is the skateboarding rapper of 2006, complete with a punk-rock name. Despite the fact that “Kick, Push”, the first single, talks about being a rebel on a board it showcases smooth horns more reminiscent of late-night jazz than ska. The rest of his album, Food & Liquor, is equally smooth with more R&B and neo-soul influences than hip-hop. Lupe Fiasco remains a rapper throughout the album, but keeps his hard edges smooth with an R&B sound.
Delinquent Habits make Latin rap that sounds very different from Daddy Yankee. The band rarely raps in Spanish for a whole song, yet their sound is very “south of the border.” Their music includes horns, guitars, drums, and the occasional well-crafted beat, and is reminiscent of laid back Ozomatli. Delinquent Habits’ lyrics are usually about partying, and their thick beats are perfect for a party soundtrack.
Psalm One is a female MC who celebrates her femininity. It’s a rare artist who understands that being female just comes down to being yourself, and equally rare are female rappers who feel comfortable dropping a rhyme without putting on a show. Psalm One seems both comfortable with herself and with her rhymes. She throws around tricky lyrics with power, and she throws them over interesting beats.
Atmosphere is the political rapper in this bunch. He can drop heavy lyrics over mad beats, like a hardcore kid can scream over shredded guitars. Besides his amazing flow, Atmosphere writes lyrics that mean something. He discusses hip-hop culture (“Trying to Find a Balance,”) life’s disappointments (“Pour Me Another,”) and just trying to make it (“The Arrival.”) Like every artist listed here, Atmosphere has a distinct sound that separates him from the popular rap crew. Atmosphere has a very even and exceptional sound, easily throwing around difficult lyrics over tight music.
Edan from Boston is a master of flow and sound. His music and lyrics are interesting, and they work well together, unlike some hip-hop music where the music and lyrics either battle for superiority or are both less than interesting. Beauty & The Beat showcases Edan’s rhythmic and lyrical prowess.
Lupe Fiasco is the skateboarding rapper of 2006, complete with a punk-rock name. Despite the fact that “Kick, Push”, the first single, talks about being a rebel on a board it showcases smooth horns more reminiscent of late-night jazz than ska. The rest of his album, Food & Liquor, is equally smooth with more R&B and neo-soul influences than hip-hop. Lupe Fiasco remains a rapper throughout the album, but keeps his hard edges smooth with an R&B sound.
Delinquent Habits make Latin rap that sounds very different from Daddy Yankee. The band rarely raps in Spanish for a whole song, yet their sound is very “south of the border.” Their music includes horns, guitars, drums, and the occasional well-crafted beat, and is reminiscent of laid back Ozomatli. Delinquent Habits’ lyrics are usually about partying, and their thick beats are perfect for a party soundtrack.
Psalm One is a female MC who celebrates her femininity. It’s a rare artist who understands that being female just comes down to being yourself, and equally rare are female rappers who feel comfortable dropping a rhyme without putting on a show. Psalm One seems both comfortable with herself and with her rhymes. She throws around tricky lyrics with power, and she throws them over interesting beats.
Atmosphere is the political rapper in this bunch. He can drop heavy lyrics over mad beats, like a hardcore kid can scream over shredded guitars. Besides his amazing flow, Atmosphere writes lyrics that mean something. He discusses hip-hop culture (“Trying to Find a Balance,”) life’s disappointments (“Pour Me Another,”) and just trying to make it (“The Arrival.”) Like every artist listed here, Atmosphere has a distinct sound that separates him from the popular rap crew. Atmosphere has a very even and exceptional sound, easily throwing around difficult lyrics over tight music.
21 November, 2006
...You Say You Want A Revolution
Some of the most powerful and empowering music discusses the idea of being trapped in your own or others' preconceived notions. Sociologically speaking, we live in a society that imposes boundaries and restrictions and some great music speaks of bumping against, and in some cases bursting through those barriers. Revolution can be both internal and external, and is more celebrated in contemporary music than you may realize. When you feel trapped, listen to the music and it will free your mind.
“To Have and Have Not” by Billy Bragg
This song addresses the separation of classes and the disconnect between people that results from this separation. The people who can “...afford to pick and choose...” have a greater advantage in the working world and do not always understand that everyone does not have this advantage. The most touching lyric: “...just because you’re better than me, doesn’t mean I’m lazy. Just because you’re going forward, doesn’t mean I’m going backwards.”
“Start Now” by Rancid
A call for unity to end war and violence. The chorus is clear, “I’m not looking for a fight now, and I don’t care who’s wrong or right now, so release the dove into flight now, so we can start right now...” Let’s get past our differing ideologies and work together for the common good.
“Video” by India Arie
Clearly about female body image and the struggles women go through to create a certain outer appearance or to combat that compulsion. India sings the age old question “Am I less of a lady if I don’t wear pantyhose?” and then counters with the thought that so many strong women share; “...my mama said a lady ain’t what she wears, but what she knows.” Beautiful, empowering, and spiritual.
“Waiting On the World to Change” by John Mayer
A song addressing our personal ability to change the world. John Mayer questions the apathetic title that has been placed on his generation, “ Me and all my friends we're all misunderstood. They say we stand for nothing. There's no way we ever could. Now we see everything is going wrong with the world and those who lead it. We just feel like we don't have the means to rise above and beat it.” He’s waiting, but when his time comes he’s ready to change the world.
“Won’t Get Fooled Again” by The Who
This song speaks of revolution, but takes a different view of the resulting change. The entire song is summed up in the last two lines, “Meet the new boss, same as the old boss.”
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Filled with teenage angst and sung in the mumbling tones of adolescence, Kurt Cobain uses the internal unease of that “most wonderful time of your life” as a metaphor for the feeling of not quite fitting the mold. This song truly showcases all of Cobain’s genius taking you into that world of boredom, apathy, and uncomfortable physical changes that make teenagers such a misunderstood creature. Cobain heightens this idea of differences by naming four odd things, things that seem very out of place, “a mulatto, an albino, a mosquito, my libido.”
“La Vie Boheme Pts. 1 and 2” by the Cast of RENT
A true celebration of differences and a grocery list of eclectic traits and nonconformist attitudes. “To going against the grain, going insane, going mad...to being an us for once, instead of a them!”
“Who’s Gonna Take the Weight?” by Gang Starr
Besides having impeccable flow, Gang Starr’s lyrics have a point. Another call for unity, but this time it’s especially directed towards the African American community; “... and just imagine if each one is teachin' one we'll come together so that we become a strong force, then we can stay on course. Find your direction through introspection and for my people out there I got a question, can we be the sole controllers of our fate? Now who's gonna take the weight?”
“Soar” by Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera belts a song about self-acceptance, independence, and strength in the face of major conformism. Again, the high school experience is the perfect setting to showcase differences, since changes and differences are always on center stage. The overwhelming moral is to believe in yourself, even if no one else does, because you’re the one that matters.
“To Have and Have Not” by Billy Bragg
This song addresses the separation of classes and the disconnect between people that results from this separation. The people who can “...afford to pick and choose...” have a greater advantage in the working world and do not always understand that everyone does not have this advantage. The most touching lyric: “...just because you’re better than me, doesn’t mean I’m lazy. Just because you’re going forward, doesn’t mean I’m going backwards.”
“Start Now” by Rancid
A call for unity to end war and violence. The chorus is clear, “I’m not looking for a fight now, and I don’t care who’s wrong or right now, so release the dove into flight now, so we can start right now...” Let’s get past our differing ideologies and work together for the common good.
“Video” by India Arie
Clearly about female body image and the struggles women go through to create a certain outer appearance or to combat that compulsion. India sings the age old question “Am I less of a lady if I don’t wear pantyhose?” and then counters with the thought that so many strong women share; “...my mama said a lady ain’t what she wears, but what she knows.” Beautiful, empowering, and spiritual.
“Waiting On the World to Change” by John Mayer
A song addressing our personal ability to change the world. John Mayer questions the apathetic title that has been placed on his generation, “ Me and all my friends we're all misunderstood. They say we stand for nothing. There's no way we ever could. Now we see everything is going wrong with the world and those who lead it. We just feel like we don't have the means to rise above and beat it.” He’s waiting, but when his time comes he’s ready to change the world.
“Won’t Get Fooled Again” by The Who
This song speaks of revolution, but takes a different view of the resulting change. The entire song is summed up in the last two lines, “Meet the new boss, same as the old boss.”
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Filled with teenage angst and sung in the mumbling tones of adolescence, Kurt Cobain uses the internal unease of that “most wonderful time of your life” as a metaphor for the feeling of not quite fitting the mold. This song truly showcases all of Cobain’s genius taking you into that world of boredom, apathy, and uncomfortable physical changes that make teenagers such a misunderstood creature. Cobain heightens this idea of differences by naming four odd things, things that seem very out of place, “a mulatto, an albino, a mosquito, my libido.”
“La Vie Boheme Pts. 1 and 2” by the Cast of RENT
A true celebration of differences and a grocery list of eclectic traits and nonconformist attitudes. “To going against the grain, going insane, going mad...to being an us for once, instead of a them!”
“Who’s Gonna Take the Weight?” by Gang Starr
Besides having impeccable flow, Gang Starr’s lyrics have a point. Another call for unity, but this time it’s especially directed towards the African American community; “... and just imagine if each one is teachin' one we'll come together so that we become a strong force, then we can stay on course. Find your direction through introspection and for my people out there I got a question, can we be the sole controllers of our fate? Now who's gonna take the weight?”
“Soar” by Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera belts a song about self-acceptance, independence, and strength in the face of major conformism. Again, the high school experience is the perfect setting to showcase differences, since changes and differences are always on center stage. The overwhelming moral is to believe in yourself, even if no one else does, because you’re the one that matters.
14 November, 2006
A Few of My Favorite Things, Vol. 2
The hills are alive with the sound of music, and I happen to be a big fan of musicals. I don’t understand what the big deal is anyway, in some ways showtunes are just the anti-hardcore; concise and understandable lyrics to beautiful music. Showtunes’ very structure is what makes them perfect for soundtracks, they’re music that furthers the story and entertains.
“Beauty & the Beast (Soundtrack to the Disney Motion Picture)” Composed by Alan Menken
Besides being just about the best animated Disney movie ever - obviously I’m quite a fan! - the music is also just amazing! In the style of the best Broadway shows, the music enchants while the lyrics entertain and all is made perfectly easy to understand so you can sing along, if you wish. The ensemble tunes are some of the best, while of course, Angela Lansbury outdoes herself with the big love-story number “Beauty & the Beast.” Personally, I enjoy Angela Lansbury’s version of the title-track much more than Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson’s, but at the end of the soundtrack even that unneeded cover is added on for good measure.
“RENT (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” Composed by Jonathan Larson
I went to see this movie last year around Christmas time, and at first I thought ‘Wow, this is different.” For the next few weeks until Christmas I found myself humming the songs, even breaking into full-out vocals at times. I finally got the soundtrack and couldn’t get it out of my CD player for months, in fact I just started listening to it again after a month-long hiatus and the music is still amazing. The best thing about this musical is that the sentiment of the songs does not become dated, even if the constant references to AIDS get a little over the top. Also, the score is one of those rock scores that holds up. The music is layered and well-played and doesn’t sound like something out of a bad ‘80s movie, and the vocals never fail to bring tears to my eyes. It’s funny how you can fail to notice great music when it’s right under your ears.
“Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” Composed by Howard Shore
The best of the three movies, if only because of its emotionally cathartic ending, “The Return of the King” also has the best score. I’m assuming that it was Peter Jackson’s decision to leave the overlong “battle songs” that plagued Tolkien’s books out of the movies, but I applaud Howard Shore for backing up his decision. These soundtracks could have gone very wrong if we suddenly had Legolas and Gimli breaking into songs about slaying Orcs, but instead we have a very insidious and subtle score. The music really creeps up on you when you listen, sometimes everything sounds peachy and the heroes will save the day, and then slowly that doubt creeps in and you remember Golem and Sauron. Howard Shore had to really understand the feeling of the movie and have the ability to translate that feeling into a coherent score to create this beautiful music, and I think he pulled it off extremely well.
“Fiddler on the Roof” Composed by Jerry Bock with Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick
One of my favorite musicals because of its exceptional use of the emotional bond between parents and their children. Tevye is a truly good man trying to care for his family in a time of extreme change. Out of this story line we get such gems as “Tradition”, “Sunrise, Sunset”, “Anatevka”, and my personal favorite “Far From the Home I Love.” It is an underrated masterpiece with amazing music.
“The Sound of Music” Composed by Rodgers & Hammerstein
Julie Andrews’ voice is amazing and anything she sings is beautiful, but this musical is really perfect for her voice. The story line is most definitely Rodgers & Hammerstein, a fairy tale worthy of Disney, but a musical or movie for that matter does not need an unhappy ending to be worth viewing. Sometimes it’s all right to like something because the music is good and the story is entertaining. I’m not endorsing the new Paris Hilton album, but I do think it’s a shame that more people can’t enjoy a good musical just because it’s fun. The story isn’t all rainbows and waterfalls anyway, I mean the Nazis are involved, and some of the music strikes a deeper chord. This isn’t a shallow musical, but it is a very good fairy tale.
“Beauty & the Beast (Soundtrack to the Disney Motion Picture)” Composed by Alan Menken
Besides being just about the best animated Disney movie ever - obviously I’m quite a fan! - the music is also just amazing! In the style of the best Broadway shows, the music enchants while the lyrics entertain and all is made perfectly easy to understand so you can sing along, if you wish. The ensemble tunes are some of the best, while of course, Angela Lansbury outdoes herself with the big love-story number “Beauty & the Beast.” Personally, I enjoy Angela Lansbury’s version of the title-track much more than Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson’s, but at the end of the soundtrack even that unneeded cover is added on for good measure.
“RENT (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” Composed by Jonathan Larson
I went to see this movie last year around Christmas time, and at first I thought ‘Wow, this is different.” For the next few weeks until Christmas I found myself humming the songs, even breaking into full-out vocals at times. I finally got the soundtrack and couldn’t get it out of my CD player for months, in fact I just started listening to it again after a month-long hiatus and the music is still amazing. The best thing about this musical is that the sentiment of the songs does not become dated, even if the constant references to AIDS get a little over the top. Also, the score is one of those rock scores that holds up. The music is layered and well-played and doesn’t sound like something out of a bad ‘80s movie, and the vocals never fail to bring tears to my eyes. It’s funny how you can fail to notice great music when it’s right under your ears.
“Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” Composed by Howard Shore
The best of the three movies, if only because of its emotionally cathartic ending, “The Return of the King” also has the best score. I’m assuming that it was Peter Jackson’s decision to leave the overlong “battle songs” that plagued Tolkien’s books out of the movies, but I applaud Howard Shore for backing up his decision. These soundtracks could have gone very wrong if we suddenly had Legolas and Gimli breaking into songs about slaying Orcs, but instead we have a very insidious and subtle score. The music really creeps up on you when you listen, sometimes everything sounds peachy and the heroes will save the day, and then slowly that doubt creeps in and you remember Golem and Sauron. Howard Shore had to really understand the feeling of the movie and have the ability to translate that feeling into a coherent score to create this beautiful music, and I think he pulled it off extremely well.
“Fiddler on the Roof” Composed by Jerry Bock with Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick
One of my favorite musicals because of its exceptional use of the emotional bond between parents and their children. Tevye is a truly good man trying to care for his family in a time of extreme change. Out of this story line we get such gems as “Tradition”, “Sunrise, Sunset”, “Anatevka”, and my personal favorite “Far From the Home I Love.” It is an underrated masterpiece with amazing music.
“The Sound of Music” Composed by Rodgers & Hammerstein
Julie Andrews’ voice is amazing and anything she sings is beautiful, but this musical is really perfect for her voice. The story line is most definitely Rodgers & Hammerstein, a fairy tale worthy of Disney, but a musical or movie for that matter does not need an unhappy ending to be worth viewing. Sometimes it’s all right to like something because the music is good and the story is entertaining. I’m not endorsing the new Paris Hilton album, but I do think it’s a shame that more people can’t enjoy a good musical just because it’s fun. The story isn’t all rainbows and waterfalls anyway, I mean the Nazis are involved, and some of the music strikes a deeper chord. This isn’t a shallow musical, but it is a very good fairy tale.
07 November, 2006
...These Are a Few of My Favorite Things Volume 1
In some ways I think of all the music I listen to as a soundtrack; the soundtrack to my life. So, when choosing the music I listen to on a regular basis I can be very picky. If you are a true music-lover you know there is a time and place for every song, and sometimes finding the perfect song for the perfect moment takes a little searching. These following soundtracks are my personal favorites and make up the first volume of my Favorite Soundtracks list. The composer or compiler truly understood what it meant to need that perfect song and went out of his/her way to find music that fit a moment in time and on-screen. Here they are:
“Grosse Pointe Blank” Compiled by Joe Strummer
This, in my opinion, is one of the most finely crafted soundtracks I’ve ever had the pleasure of listening to. Joe Strummer outdid himself with these picks. There is not a bad song on the album! The late, great Mr. Strummer brings you back to the ‘80s for John Cusack’s high school reunion, but magically pulls together a baker’s dozen of authentically ‘80s songs that don’t suck. Actually, in all seriousness this album is excellent and underrated, the music is well-mixed, all of it is good, and the album includes a nice sprinkling of hits to keep you singing along.
“Garden State” Compiled by Zach Braff
I know, this album has received a ton of press backing and it probably doesn’t need my voice added to the collective cheer, but it really is good and I can’t leave a good soundtrack off this list. I was very slow to jump in, given all the hype surrounding the entire “Garden State” project and I wouldn’t touch the soundtrack with a ten-foot pole. I’ve obviously changed my mind about this album somewhere down the line and this is why: The movie made me sad, it really did, and I was afraid of watching it because I knew it was going to be sad, but the thing that really struck me as I watched was how seamlessly the music and the movie went together. It reminded me of a John Cusack movie because the music is always very important in his movies, but somehow the sound never supersedes the story. The story and the music flow.
“Pride and Prejudice” Composed by Jean-Yves Thibaudet
I’ve already written a fairly lengthy endorsement of this soundtrack in this blog, so suffice it to say that Jean-Yves Thibaudet creates music that at once evokes another time and connects to the time the listener inhabits. It’s gorgeous.
“Daredevil” Composed by Graeme Revell and Various Artists
This soundtrack that launched the Evanescence explosion is highly underrated as compared to some of its comic book contemporaries, but is certainly the cream of the crop. This not a smattering of disjointed hits like the Spiderman soundtrack, but a finely crafted hard-hitting rock album that fits the movie well. Even if you’re sick of hearing Amy Lee wail on “Bring Me To Life”, you’ll love her voice in this movie.
“Marie Antoinette” Compiled by Sophia Coppola
It’s funny how sometimes when you least expect it a soundtrack really surprises you. I was almost certain the music in “Marie Antoinette” would be well-crafted music of the period, but these 26 underground gems really flesh out the idea of the pouty princess. New Order, Gang of Four, and The Cure are not names you’d expect to find in Marie Antoinette’s repertoire, but find them you do on this soundtrack that very much evokes modern day royalty with a touch more class (Hilton + Princess Di = Kirsten Dunst.) Sophia Coppola had a vision and you can really tell by how well she compiled this music, it is most certainly a labor of love and a joyful experience for the ears.
“Grosse Pointe Blank” Compiled by Joe Strummer
This, in my opinion, is one of the most finely crafted soundtracks I’ve ever had the pleasure of listening to. Joe Strummer outdid himself with these picks. There is not a bad song on the album! The late, great Mr. Strummer brings you back to the ‘80s for John Cusack’s high school reunion, but magically pulls together a baker’s dozen of authentically ‘80s songs that don’t suck. Actually, in all seriousness this album is excellent and underrated, the music is well-mixed, all of it is good, and the album includes a nice sprinkling of hits to keep you singing along.
“Garden State” Compiled by Zach Braff
I know, this album has received a ton of press backing and it probably doesn’t need my voice added to the collective cheer, but it really is good and I can’t leave a good soundtrack off this list. I was very slow to jump in, given all the hype surrounding the entire “Garden State” project and I wouldn’t touch the soundtrack with a ten-foot pole. I’ve obviously changed my mind about this album somewhere down the line and this is why: The movie made me sad, it really did, and I was afraid of watching it because I knew it was going to be sad, but the thing that really struck me as I watched was how seamlessly the music and the movie went together. It reminded me of a John Cusack movie because the music is always very important in his movies, but somehow the sound never supersedes the story. The story and the music flow.
“Pride and Prejudice” Composed by Jean-Yves Thibaudet
I’ve already written a fairly lengthy endorsement of this soundtrack in this blog, so suffice it to say that Jean-Yves Thibaudet creates music that at once evokes another time and connects to the time the listener inhabits. It’s gorgeous.
“Daredevil” Composed by Graeme Revell and Various Artists
This soundtrack that launched the Evanescence explosion is highly underrated as compared to some of its comic book contemporaries, but is certainly the cream of the crop. This not a smattering of disjointed hits like the Spiderman soundtrack, but a finely crafted hard-hitting rock album that fits the movie well. Even if you’re sick of hearing Amy Lee wail on “Bring Me To Life”, you’ll love her voice in this movie.
“Marie Antoinette” Compiled by Sophia Coppola
It’s funny how sometimes when you least expect it a soundtrack really surprises you. I was almost certain the music in “Marie Antoinette” would be well-crafted music of the period, but these 26 underground gems really flesh out the idea of the pouty princess. New Order, Gang of Four, and The Cure are not names you’d expect to find in Marie Antoinette’s repertoire, but find them you do on this soundtrack that very much evokes modern day royalty with a touch more class (Hilton + Princess Di = Kirsten Dunst.) Sophia Coppola had a vision and you can really tell by how well she compiled this music, it is most certainly a labor of love and a joyful experience for the ears.
31 October, 2006
BOO!
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
24 October, 2006
Falling for Fall Out Boy
I tried not to like them, believe me I did. It’s ridiculous how far I went to ignore their music. For at least two years I’ve been changing the station on the radio and ignoring Fall Out Boy, the band many music connoisseurs love to hate. I could lie to my readers and tell them I find Fall Out Boy’s music trite, their emotion false, and their love of incredibly long song titles lame, but alas I’m an honest person. I enjoy listening to Fall Out Boy. Finally it’s out, and the real question isn’t why do I like them, the real question is why do I feel so guilty about liking them? Peer pressure is many times more of a problem around indie music lovers than around their pop music counterparts. I know I’m personally guilty of laughing at other’s music choices, but I usually try to give everything a fair shot.
To elaborate on my point here’s a little personal anecdote: One day I was talking with a close friend about music. As we were discussing our feelings about Fall Out Boy another friend (an annoying one:) made the comment that “Fall Out Boy is the worst band ever!” Unfortunately, this friend will not listen to reason (it has been proven that the title of worst band ever goes to The Locust not Fall Out Boy, but I digress.) At a later date I had the pleasure of a good laugh when this same friend who claimed that “Fall Out Boy is the worst band ever!” revealed that he knows all the words to Warrant’s “Cherry Pie” which happens to be one of his favorite songs.
I guess the real point of this story is that music is what you make of it. Your musical tastes are built upon your personal interests, expectations, knowledge, and experience and in the end, it all comes down to what your ears like. There’s no point in trying to change your feelings about music because you believe others will perceive you in a certain way. Screw what others think! Put on your headphones and turn up your Fall Out Boy (or Warrant for that matter.) Keep your ears and mind open to different sounds and different opinions, but make up your own mind about the music you love.
To elaborate on my point here’s a little personal anecdote: One day I was talking with a close friend about music. As we were discussing our feelings about Fall Out Boy another friend (an annoying one:) made the comment that “Fall Out Boy is the worst band ever!” Unfortunately, this friend will not listen to reason (it has been proven that the title of worst band ever goes to The Locust not Fall Out Boy, but I digress.) At a later date I had the pleasure of a good laugh when this same friend who claimed that “Fall Out Boy is the worst band ever!” revealed that he knows all the words to Warrant’s “Cherry Pie” which happens to be one of his favorite songs.
I guess the real point of this story is that music is what you make of it. Your musical tastes are built upon your personal interests, expectations, knowledge, and experience and in the end, it all comes down to what your ears like. There’s no point in trying to change your feelings about music because you believe others will perceive you in a certain way. Screw what others think! Put on your headphones and turn up your Fall Out Boy (or Warrant for that matter.) Keep your ears and mind open to different sounds and different opinions, but make up your own mind about the music you love.
Boo!: A Sort-Of Halloween Playlist
Despite the fact that I’m a giant baby when it comes to scary movies (I couldn’t sleep after watching “Signs”) I enjoy Halloween. Maybe I’m a masochist or maybe I just like the idea of changing yourself for one night. The possibilities are endless and you get free candy! In honor of this crazy holiday I’ve created a playlist of songs that remind me of Halloween. Not all of the songs are spooky and you won’t find most of them on a Halloween compilation cd, but they all remind me of the otherworldliness of that final night in October (MWAHAHAHAHA.)
“Evil” by Interpol: Maybe it’s just me, but everytime I here this song I can see zombies rocking out to that crazy steady bassline. Certainly evil.
“Dead Man’s Party” by Oingo Boingo: The title alone conjures pictures of skeletons in party hats. This song also makes me think of the Death Day party in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets”. Quick trivia question: Which member of Oingo Boingo went on to spooky soundtrack fame? Danny Elfman of course!
“Teenagers from Mars” by the Misfits: The underrated horror-punk band of the ‘80s sing about teenagers from mars. Also check out the Network’s cover of this song.
“Supermodel Robots” by The Network: With sirens blasting in the background, what could be creepier than starving supermodel robots? The Network are the kings of dress up. It is rumored that three of the members are Green Day in disguise.
“Fashion Zombies!” by the Aquabats: A really weird and cool band singing extremely Halloween worthy tunes. This song is making fun of goth/emo kids everywhere with a thinly veiled (barely veiled) metaphor. Just check out some of the lyrics:
“...So lock those doors and windows
They crawl the malls to shop
For tight black jeans and spiky belts
and scissors for the Zelda cut
and there is no explanation
These creatures are just victims
Dressed in expensive fashions
To look like they crawled out of coffins...”
“Going Under” by Evanescence: This whole album freaks me out so much that I can only listen to it on sunny/extremely happy days. Don’t listen in the dark!
“Gone Daddy Gone” by Gnarls Barkley: These guys have a great love of Halloween masks which they seem to wear for every photo-shoot. This song was originally done by the Violent Femmes, and although it isn’t spooky per se, I find that everything Gnarls Barkley does scares me a little (in a good way!)
“Knights of Cydonia” by Muse: Starting off with the ominous sound of horse hooves and lasers (?) this song is pure eerie fun. Although it does remind me more of cowboys than knights, it definitely makes me pause and listen hard every time I hear it on the radio. Listen to the lyrics, they’re great.
“Dragostea Din Tei (Original Romanian)” by O-Zone: The only scary thing about this song is how much I enjoy listening to it! Oh yeah, and it’s in Romanian which, surprisingly, is not as scary as I had imagined.
“How Soon Is Now?” by The Smiths: Morrissey man, he used to be so weird now he’s just depressing, but that isn’t really the point. This song is great with a loooong intro. It always makes me think of that part in “The Wedding Singer” when Linda comes back, and that’s hands-down the creepiest part of that movie.
“Just Like Heaven” by Dinosaur Jr: They took an already eerie Cure song and made it weirder with all kinds of spooky distortion. I love it!
“Bat Country” by Avenged Sevenfold: This song is just so cool, and the drummer and guitarist are AMAZING. Even if you don’t want to listen because of the massive MTV video play check it out, I promise you won’t be disappointed.
“Evil” by Interpol: Maybe it’s just me, but everytime I here this song I can see zombies rocking out to that crazy steady bassline. Certainly evil.
“Dead Man’s Party” by Oingo Boingo: The title alone conjures pictures of skeletons in party hats. This song also makes me think of the Death Day party in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets”. Quick trivia question: Which member of Oingo Boingo went on to spooky soundtrack fame? Danny Elfman of course!
“Teenagers from Mars” by the Misfits: The underrated horror-punk band of the ‘80s sing about teenagers from mars. Also check out the Network’s cover of this song.
“Supermodel Robots” by The Network: With sirens blasting in the background, what could be creepier than starving supermodel robots? The Network are the kings of dress up. It is rumored that three of the members are Green Day in disguise.
“Fashion Zombies!” by the Aquabats: A really weird and cool band singing extremely Halloween worthy tunes. This song is making fun of goth/emo kids everywhere with a thinly veiled (barely veiled) metaphor. Just check out some of the lyrics:
“...So lock those doors and windows
They crawl the malls to shop
For tight black jeans and spiky belts
and scissors for the Zelda cut
and there is no explanation
These creatures are just victims
Dressed in expensive fashions
To look like they crawled out of coffins...”
“Going Under” by Evanescence: This whole album freaks me out so much that I can only listen to it on sunny/extremely happy days. Don’t listen in the dark!
“Gone Daddy Gone” by Gnarls Barkley: These guys have a great love of Halloween masks which they seem to wear for every photo-shoot. This song was originally done by the Violent Femmes, and although it isn’t spooky per se, I find that everything Gnarls Barkley does scares me a little (in a good way!)
“Knights of Cydonia” by Muse: Starting off with the ominous sound of horse hooves and lasers (?) this song is pure eerie fun. Although it does remind me more of cowboys than knights, it definitely makes me pause and listen hard every time I hear it on the radio. Listen to the lyrics, they’re great.
“Dragostea Din Tei (Original Romanian)” by O-Zone: The only scary thing about this song is how much I enjoy listening to it! Oh yeah, and it’s in Romanian which, surprisingly, is not as scary as I had imagined.
“How Soon Is Now?” by The Smiths: Morrissey man, he used to be so weird now he’s just depressing, but that isn’t really the point. This song is great with a loooong intro. It always makes me think of that part in “The Wedding Singer” when Linda comes back, and that’s hands-down the creepiest part of that movie.
“Just Like Heaven” by Dinosaur Jr: They took an already eerie Cure song and made it weirder with all kinds of spooky distortion. I love it!
“Bat Country” by Avenged Sevenfold: This song is just so cool, and the drummer and guitarist are AMAZING. Even if you don’t want to listen because of the massive MTV video play check it out, I promise you won’t be disappointed.
17 October, 2006
Everything you need to know about...Lydia Vance
Lydia Vance is a new band from Las Vegas. I recently corresponded with lead guitarist Brendan and asked him a few questions about the band. These are definitely guys you should check out. In the short time they’ve been together they’ve written some very solid material, and they certainly have the talent to continue writing and growing as a band. Lydia Vance is:
Brendan on lead guitars & vocals
Travis on guitar & vocals
Jarred on bass
Aaron on drums
It was a pleasure interviewing Brendan. Here is the transcript for your entertainment; everything you need to know about Lydia Vance:
Music Snob: So, it’s great to be interviewing you! How long have you guys been playing music together?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): 4 months.
MS: I can definitely hear punk in your music, along with rebel country and grunge influences. These genres are known for their artist's scorn of fame and disinterest in money. What do you guys want from music? Would you like to “make it big”?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): All we want is to have a career and longevity. We want the band to be our full time job. If we make it big, that’s a huge plus.
MS: Besides the influences you mention on your site (Thin Lizzy, Squeeze, Elvis Costello, and Johnny Thunders) what artists, movies, books have influenced your music?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Me personally, I'm a big fan of bukowski and jd salinger as far as books go. I love all kinds of movies, huge fan of christopher walken. He’s pretty much the greatest man alive.
MS: What is it like to be a band living in Sin city? Are you getting more attention with the recent fame of the Killers and Panic! at the Disco?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Vegas is Vegas. There’s always been a lack of all age venues, something that makes it incredibly hard to thrive as an up and coming band. But somehow we always find a way to make do. Of course with the killers and panic's success it has had the industry buzzing quite a bit around here, but that has had no affect on how we do things.
MS: Any local band recommendations?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Jr. Anti Sex league.
MS: Do you have a favorite venue in Las Vegas/the World? What do you like about it?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): There are no real venues left in vegas, besides say the house of blues or the joint. We have yet to play out of town, so as far as other clubs, I’ll keep you posted. haha.
MS: Will you be touring soon? Any plans for an album?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): We will probably be touring extensively in the months following the release of our ep. The ep comes out in November and is entitled "Fight Fire With Kids On Fire". Pick it up.
MS: How do you guys go about the song-writing process?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): I usually write all the songs, and then it builds from there.
MS: What are you trying to say with your music?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): That life is fucked up, and you’re not alone with your problems.
MS: If you could play any instrument other than your own, what would it be?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Drums!
MS: The Stones or the Beatles? Why?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Beatles, more hooks.
MS: Is there anything else the public should know about Lydia Vance?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): We make good house pets! Thank you to all our friends and fans, and anyone who supports us. And especially YOU for interviewing us!
Brendan on lead guitars & vocals
Travis on guitar & vocals
Jarred on bass
Aaron on drums
It was a pleasure interviewing Brendan. Here is the transcript for your entertainment; everything you need to know about Lydia Vance:
Music Snob: So, it’s great to be interviewing you! How long have you guys been playing music together?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): 4 months.
MS: I can definitely hear punk in your music, along with rebel country and grunge influences. These genres are known for their artist's scorn of fame and disinterest in money. What do you guys want from music? Would you like to “make it big”?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): All we want is to have a career and longevity. We want the band to be our full time job. If we make it big, that’s a huge plus.
MS: Besides the influences you mention on your site (Thin Lizzy, Squeeze, Elvis Costello, and Johnny Thunders) what artists, movies, books have influenced your music?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Me personally, I'm a big fan of bukowski and jd salinger as far as books go. I love all kinds of movies, huge fan of christopher walken. He’s pretty much the greatest man alive.
MS: What is it like to be a band living in Sin city? Are you getting more attention with the recent fame of the Killers and Panic! at the Disco?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Vegas is Vegas. There’s always been a lack of all age venues, something that makes it incredibly hard to thrive as an up and coming band. But somehow we always find a way to make do. Of course with the killers and panic's success it has had the industry buzzing quite a bit around here, but that has had no affect on how we do things.
MS: Any local band recommendations?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Jr. Anti Sex league.
MS: Do you have a favorite venue in Las Vegas/the World? What do you like about it?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): There are no real venues left in vegas, besides say the house of blues or the joint. We have yet to play out of town, so as far as other clubs, I’ll keep you posted. haha.
MS: Will you be touring soon? Any plans for an album?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): We will probably be touring extensively in the months following the release of our ep. The ep comes out in November and is entitled "Fight Fire With Kids On Fire". Pick it up.
MS: How do you guys go about the song-writing process?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): I usually write all the songs, and then it builds from there.
MS: What are you trying to say with your music?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): That life is fucked up, and you’re not alone with your problems.
MS: If you could play any instrument other than your own, what would it be?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Drums!
MS: The Stones or the Beatles? Why?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): Beatles, more hooks.
MS: Is there anything else the public should know about Lydia Vance?
Brendan (Lydia Vance): We make good house pets! Thank you to all our friends and fans, and anyone who supports us. And especially YOU for interviewing us!
Songs about Books
Music and literature have influenced each other for a long time. “The Odyssey” is one ancient example of how music has been used to spread classic stories. In the 20th century, music and literature began to grow apart, as the major art forms diverged and multiplied into many separate genres. Recently, there has been less celebration of classic literary works through song as musicians become more involved in their own stories (which are many times equally interesting.) Even poetry has lost its mainstream popularity, as the rich rock star became the preferred hero of teens and adults everywhere.
The classics of music and literature remain to be interpreted in interesting ways by both writers and musicians, and it is completely appropriate that celebrated contemporary literature be expressed through music. Some recent artists are taking part in the long history of telling classic tales through music. These musicians take the most celebrated and exciting literature of the last decade and express these timeless stories in song, and they do this with flare and originality.
Take, for example, the Gothic Archies. The Gothic Archies are best known by kids and their extremely fortunate parents who listen to Lemony Snicket’s “A Series of Unfortunate Events” on tape. The Archies are lead by Stephen Merrit of the 6ths and Magnetic Fields, but the Archies are somewhat more musically dark than these other bands. This is not to say that the Archies’ music is depressing, although that seems to be exactly the point of songs with titles like “Smile! No one cares how you feel”, “The World is A Very Scary Place”, and “Scream and Run Away.” These songs are actually filled with dark humor, like Lemony Snicket’s books. The monotone delivery and the echoing music recalls Joy Division and only adds to the creepy fun of the Gothic Archies’ songs. Most of the lyrics revolve around the trials and tribulations of the Baudelaire children, the heroes of “The Series of Unfortunate Events.” I would recommend that any fan of Lemony Snicket’s books listen to the Gothic Archies, and that anyone who isn’t a fan of “The Series of Unfortunate Events” buy the new album “The Tragic Treasury”. The music really does complement the books, but it is just as interesting on its own.
Another example of literary rock stars are local cult favorites, Harry & the Potters. As their name implies, the Potters sing about the magical adventures of one popular boy wizard. They’re surprisingly good at what they do, capturing the pressures of adolescence that are so prevalent in the Harry Potter books and turning them into finely crafted rock songs (including a lighter friendly ballad “Save Ginny Weasley.) The number of bands influenced by the “Harry Potter” books is immense and not surprising given the book’s popularity. A quick search of Myspace shows such wizard-worthy musicians as; Ginny & The Heartbreakers, The Whomping Willows, The Hungarian Horntails, The Parselmouths, Dobby & The House Elves, The Moaning Myrtles, Romilda Vane & The Chocolate Cauldrons, The Wands, The Bandon Banshees, and Hollow Godric among others. Harry & The Potters even have an evil nemesis band in Draco & The Malfoys who proclaim “Evil Wizard Rock Love!” on their Myspace homepage.
It is obvious from the sheer number of musicians interested in writing about contemporary classics that the interpretation of literature through music is not dead, and has even forged new territory with the celebration of excellent children’s books. People are still being effected everyday by stories told in books and in song, and music and literature continue to effect and influence each other greatly.
The classics of music and literature remain to be interpreted in interesting ways by both writers and musicians, and it is completely appropriate that celebrated contemporary literature be expressed through music. Some recent artists are taking part in the long history of telling classic tales through music. These musicians take the most celebrated and exciting literature of the last decade and express these timeless stories in song, and they do this with flare and originality.
Take, for example, the Gothic Archies. The Gothic Archies are best known by kids and their extremely fortunate parents who listen to Lemony Snicket’s “A Series of Unfortunate Events” on tape. The Archies are lead by Stephen Merrit of the 6ths and Magnetic Fields, but the Archies are somewhat more musically dark than these other bands. This is not to say that the Archies’ music is depressing, although that seems to be exactly the point of songs with titles like “Smile! No one cares how you feel”, “The World is A Very Scary Place”, and “Scream and Run Away.” These songs are actually filled with dark humor, like Lemony Snicket’s books. The monotone delivery and the echoing music recalls Joy Division and only adds to the creepy fun of the Gothic Archies’ songs. Most of the lyrics revolve around the trials and tribulations of the Baudelaire children, the heroes of “The Series of Unfortunate Events.” I would recommend that any fan of Lemony Snicket’s books listen to the Gothic Archies, and that anyone who isn’t a fan of “The Series of Unfortunate Events” buy the new album “The Tragic Treasury”. The music really does complement the books, but it is just as interesting on its own.
Another example of literary rock stars are local cult favorites, Harry & the Potters. As their name implies, the Potters sing about the magical adventures of one popular boy wizard. They’re surprisingly good at what they do, capturing the pressures of adolescence that are so prevalent in the Harry Potter books and turning them into finely crafted rock songs (including a lighter friendly ballad “Save Ginny Weasley.) The number of bands influenced by the “Harry Potter” books is immense and not surprising given the book’s popularity. A quick search of Myspace shows such wizard-worthy musicians as; Ginny & The Heartbreakers, The Whomping Willows, The Hungarian Horntails, The Parselmouths, Dobby & The House Elves, The Moaning Myrtles, Romilda Vane & The Chocolate Cauldrons, The Wands, The Bandon Banshees, and Hollow Godric among others. Harry & The Potters even have an evil nemesis band in Draco & The Malfoys who proclaim “Evil Wizard Rock Love!” on their Myspace homepage.
It is obvious from the sheer number of musicians interested in writing about contemporary classics that the interpretation of literature through music is not dead, and has even forged new territory with the celebration of excellent children’s books. People are still being effected everyday by stories told in books and in song, and music and literature continue to effect and influence each other greatly.
10 October, 2006
The Boston Dolls
The Dresden Dolls are not a new band, in fact they’ve been the underground darlings of the Boston alternative scene since at least 2004. Known for their niche market of German influenced punk cabaret, the Dolls put on an exciting live show and write interesting, humorous, and catchy rock songs. “Coin-Operated Boy”, “Girl Anachronism”, “Sing”, and “Backstabber” are played regularly on local radio stations, and the Dresden Dolls have won numerous BMAs, were mentioned in Rolling Stone magazine, and recently toured with the MTV love-boys Panic! At the Disco.
Despite their popularity in such a seemingly normal city as Boston, the Dresden Dolls consistently push the envelope with their songwriting. The Dresden Dolls combine the catchiness of Broadway with the nonconformist tendencies of punk rock, and a passion for thought-provoking lyrics with a certain flare for drama.
Amanda Palmer who’s in charge of piano, vocals, and lyrics, and Brian Viglione on drums are audacious and dramatic, crying out for your attention like a goth kid with food coloring blood stains painted under his eyes. Bold is a word that readily comes to mind when listening to the new single “Backstabber”, Amanda Palmer’s feminist anthem to the male chauvinists of the rock world that is as powerful and poignant as anything Kathleen Hanna (Le Tigre) has written. Yet, what really captures your attention as you listen to the Dresden Doll’s music isn’t the boldness of the songwriting and delivery, but the echoing emptiness between the loud statements. The staccato beats of the drums and the percussive use of the piano and vocals leave an emptiness around the music, and, like the best literature, the white space that surrounds the sentences is just as important as the written statement.
The Dresden Dolls do not create flavor of the moment music, they are serious and challenging and they have a message beyond the obvious dress in black and shave your eyebrows. The Dresden Dolls are trying to say something and they deserve your attention, so open your ears and listen to the whole song.
Despite their popularity in such a seemingly normal city as Boston, the Dresden Dolls consistently push the envelope with their songwriting. The Dresden Dolls combine the catchiness of Broadway with the nonconformist tendencies of punk rock, and a passion for thought-provoking lyrics with a certain flare for drama.
Amanda Palmer who’s in charge of piano, vocals, and lyrics, and Brian Viglione on drums are audacious and dramatic, crying out for your attention like a goth kid with food coloring blood stains painted under his eyes. Bold is a word that readily comes to mind when listening to the new single “Backstabber”, Amanda Palmer’s feminist anthem to the male chauvinists of the rock world that is as powerful and poignant as anything Kathleen Hanna (Le Tigre) has written. Yet, what really captures your attention as you listen to the Dresden Doll’s music isn’t the boldness of the songwriting and delivery, but the echoing emptiness between the loud statements. The staccato beats of the drums and the percussive use of the piano and vocals leave an emptiness around the music, and, like the best literature, the white space that surrounds the sentences is just as important as the written statement.
The Dresden Dolls do not create flavor of the moment music, they are serious and challenging and they have a message beyond the obvious dress in black and shave your eyebrows. The Dresden Dolls are trying to say something and they deserve your attention, so open your ears and listen to the whole song.
03 October, 2006
Welcome to the Circus
The musical circus that is. A place where vocal acrobats take hold of the microphone and everyone seems to be acting like a clown. Justin Timberlake is sounding more like Michael Jackson by the day (not necessarily a bad thing!) and The Killers have somehow turned their Las Vegas glam-rock into slightly harder glam arena-rock with lyrics about small-town life (not something I’m complaining about.) Even if you’re enjoying the recent carnivalesque musical landscape, it’s nice to know there are a few bands you can always count on to be weird.
The Lemonheads: These guys have been around for a long time, and the latest incarnation just dropped a self-titled album in September. Evan Dando writes pop-punk that is probably most reminiscent of the Smoking Popes; pretty, witty, and charming. This new incarnation is as good as the first. Dando delivers his lyrics with the sound of vocal boredom (perfected by NPR news anchors) and throws in a psychedelic riff or two. “The Lemonheads” sounds like the kind of album you’d listen to at a party in Munchkinland where everyone is pogoing and singing along in a high voice.
The Munchkin Party Anthem: “December”.
The Hold Steady: I’ve mentioned this band before, but they’re worth mentioning again. Craig Finn delivers his mostly spoken-word vocals with a certain anger and cynicism that pays homage to Jello Biafra, and although the lyrics are not as politically clever as the Dead Kennedys’ they are clever in their own way. The Hold Steady include minute details in their songs; old friend’s names, code-like references to personal incidents, things that I could never hope to fully understand. The truth in these songs; feelings of teenage angst, boredom, anger, and confusion, resonate loudly despite and perhaps because of these individualized tales of youth. The point of the album seems to be that despite the differences and the details, everyone feels these emotions when they’re growing up.
Best Teen Anthem: “The Swish”
The Go! Team: Combine spastic cheerleaders, cartoon theme songs, and the Supremes and you get The Go! Team. This band seems to be trying to convey the message of sunny, happy people chanting over backbeats everywhere. Basically, The Go! Team is the only band I’ve heard who can pull off such a quirky genre combination and not sound ridiculous. Not that ridiculous is necessarily bad, it’s just that these guys retain their street-cred while they’re screaming like cheerleaders. Now that’s talent.
Best Hip-Hop Cheerleader Anthem: “Ladyflash”
The Lemonheads: These guys have been around for a long time, and the latest incarnation just dropped a self-titled album in September. Evan Dando writes pop-punk that is probably most reminiscent of the Smoking Popes; pretty, witty, and charming. This new incarnation is as good as the first. Dando delivers his lyrics with the sound of vocal boredom (perfected by NPR news anchors) and throws in a psychedelic riff or two. “The Lemonheads” sounds like the kind of album you’d listen to at a party in Munchkinland where everyone is pogoing and singing along in a high voice.
The Munchkin Party Anthem: “December”.
The Hold Steady: I’ve mentioned this band before, but they’re worth mentioning again. Craig Finn delivers his mostly spoken-word vocals with a certain anger and cynicism that pays homage to Jello Biafra, and although the lyrics are not as politically clever as the Dead Kennedys’ they are clever in their own way. The Hold Steady include minute details in their songs; old friend’s names, code-like references to personal incidents, things that I could never hope to fully understand. The truth in these songs; feelings of teenage angst, boredom, anger, and confusion, resonate loudly despite and perhaps because of these individualized tales of youth. The point of the album seems to be that despite the differences and the details, everyone feels these emotions when they’re growing up.
Best Teen Anthem: “The Swish”
The Go! Team: Combine spastic cheerleaders, cartoon theme songs, and the Supremes and you get The Go! Team. This band seems to be trying to convey the message of sunny, happy people chanting over backbeats everywhere. Basically, The Go! Team is the only band I’ve heard who can pull off such a quirky genre combination and not sound ridiculous. Not that ridiculous is necessarily bad, it’s just that these guys retain their street-cred while they’re screaming like cheerleaders. Now that’s talent.
Best Hip-Hop Cheerleader Anthem: “Ladyflash”
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