tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103780332024-03-07T12:38:12.014-06:00The Lonely NoteMusic reviews and news by contributors with an eclectic appetite for all things rock and pop. Since 2005Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1381125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-49234534329100017102024-01-30T23:06:00.002-06:002024-01-30T23:06:37.760-06:00Video Age - 'Away From the Castle'<p><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/video-age-mn0003531534" target="_blank">Video Age</a> is a New Orleans duo that makes <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elephant_6" target="_blank">Elephant 6</a> sounding indie power pop. <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/brian-wilson-mn0000625736" target="_blank">Brian Wilson</a>-inspired vocal hooks lay themselves upon jangled guitar strumming. Fans of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/real-estate-mn0001423784" target="_blank">Real Estate</a> will enjoy this one.</p><p>Check out 'Away From the Castle' below:</p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s5VQ9L3eGkw?si=bL5DdXVHfU47ZCWE" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-80154771851283441092023-11-26T18:40:00.000-06:002023-11-26T18:40:37.574-06:00Guest Poster Cassidy: Fontaines D.C. - 'Jackie Down the Line' & 'Roman Holiday'<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>The following post is from Guest Poster, Cassidy. For more information about Cassidy, click <a href="https://www.thelonelynote.com/2021/05/guest-poster-cassidy-rihanna-disturbia.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/fontaines-dc-mn0003768677#biography" target="_blank">Fontaines D.C.</a> has become one of my new favorite “discovered” bands. They formed in 2014, so they have been around for quite some time. Even so, I first heard 'Jackie Down the Line' by this Dublin-based band on <a href="https://www.siriusxm.com/channels/siriusxmu" target="_blank">Sirius XMU</a> in the Spring of 2022. I was going through a tumultuous time and was heavily relying on music to get through – (a shameless SiriusXM plug coming up) – so I resubscribed to SiriusXM, as I love discovering those “newer” bands. It hits different than Spotify’s “weekly discovery.” The DJ was likely <a href="https://twitter.com/jennylsq?lang=en" target="_blank">Jenny Elescu</a>.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I have become very fond of the <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/skinty-fia-mw0003654072" target="_blank">Skinty Fia</a></i> album, which is the third for Fontaines. The entire album has a way of inducing an innocence-inspired nostalgia. For me, this album reminds me of my college years, as this would be something that would be on my rotation while studying or walking to class. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">While 'Jackie Down the Line' may sound upbeat, the lyrics suggest the insecurities and potential hurt we can experience in a relationship.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">'Roman Holiday'’s psychedelic rock-esque beat and lyrics have a way of reeling you in and making you stay for the entire ride. It reminds me strongly of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/jim-james-mn0000342541" target="_blank">Jim James</a> or something that a modern-day <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/led-zeppelin-mn0000139026" target="_blank">Zeppelin</a> would produce. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I sincerely hope that Fontaines D.C continues to move in a direction where they gain more exposure, as they are one of the good ones.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Check out the music videos to 'Jackie Down the Line' and 'Roman Holiday' below:</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3AoOfJP3r40?si=vH5B-fRHazJTWLTu" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">['Jackie Down the Line']</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yj3oDS6VM2o?si=NU61GwI1JbcRwq0L" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div>['Roman Holiday']</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-58987660788581892592023-11-11T23:04:00.005-06:002023-11-11T23:04:50.406-06:00Homeshake - 'Midnight Snack'<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivht3WjuU-lkI8X7XSq89_0f-QVBFN-DcsxmORJ0k9vYRwDO-sEB-SkWutUYTHpI5hYZeRYrVZUwUkBpTe7Xbm0UkcS6GKBqnkyQCJjLvL0UMOm4nkVmZeAXgqaK6QVTg28i3xE_ba_hKlLM1LrTw4G77GHZ7YYWsBGH1b-Dv_xVtNPAJK2Bd6tQ/s316/Homeshake_-_Midnight_Snack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="316" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivht3WjuU-lkI8X7XSq89_0f-QVBFN-DcsxmORJ0k9vYRwDO-sEB-SkWutUYTHpI5hYZeRYrVZUwUkBpTe7Xbm0UkcS6GKBqnkyQCJjLvL0UMOm4nkVmZeAXgqaK6QVTg28i3xE_ba_hKlLM1LrTw4G77GHZ7YYWsBGH1b-Dv_xVtNPAJK2Bd6tQ/s1600/Homeshake_-_Midnight_Snack.jpg" width="316" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Awhile back I wrote a post on how enamored I was with <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/men-i-trust-mn0003730150" target="_blank">Men I Trust</a>. Since then, I have stumbled across another artist who captures the same diffident spirit.</div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The project is called <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/homeshake-mn0003291112" target="_blank">Homeshake</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And its architect is another Quebec-based
artist named <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/peter-sagar-mn0002901087" target="_blank">Peter Sagar</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kicker is
that Homeshake recorded almost half a decade before Men I Trust’s <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/oncle-jazz-mw0003322695" target="_blank">Oncle Jazz</a>,
</i>yet I only learned of it now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a
shame I am late to the party, because Homeshake perfectly captures the aura of solitary
indie rock.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The song I would like to feature today is ‘Midnight Snack,’
which is reminiscent of a <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/mac-demarco-mn0002872922" target="_blank">Mac DeMarco</a> production.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is because Peter was Mac’s touring guitarist
for some time before his solo breakout.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The general vibe is flaccid, yet longing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The instrumentation is thinly layered, with a
proper sprinkling of despair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other
words, it is the perfect jam for a pensive, introspective day.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Check out the video to ‘Midnight Snack’ by Homeshake below: <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h5gjLz8Ih2k?si=C-tBzlWOMLlP1zrx" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-84185158493342852072023-11-01T20:22:00.001-05:002023-11-01T20:22:57.464-05:00Talk Talk - 'Life's What You Make It'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZRcQaFM4bRp9LfDN-wNn_gzcB44PI7p9vo2uy6ayHsTuW_DB9vzENl4nxTgYLt3HuhoyEru9vMvZsMuUfo0oSp52RSMHdT7KT3tb8KHcwvoN_DWAdNoOMecYI1JC3g1xRnzy3rLNSmZrLyCdUsKHTNVV7R0u4w0Y83ML2JEEvJtJ78Caui11eg/s320/Talk_Talk_-_The_Colour_of_Spring.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZRcQaFM4bRp9LfDN-wNn_gzcB44PI7p9vo2uy6ayHsTuW_DB9vzENl4nxTgYLt3HuhoyEru9vMvZsMuUfo0oSp52RSMHdT7KT3tb8KHcwvoN_DWAdNoOMecYI1JC3g1xRnzy3rLNSmZrLyCdUsKHTNVV7R0u4w0Y83ML2JEEvJtJ78Caui11eg/w259-h259/Talk_Talk_-_The_Colour_of_Spring.jpg" width="259" /></a></div>For many years, the only song by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/talk-talk-mn0000790814" target="_blank">Talk Talk</a> I knew of was ‘It’s
My Life,’ the megahit popularized by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/gwen-stefani-mn0000546214#biography" target="_blank">Gwen Stefani</a>’s dynamic cover decades later. Recently, though, I encountered the band’s
lesser-known single, ‘Life’s What You Make It.” </div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The track was released in 1985, but its sound was way ahead
of its time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lacking a traditional pop
hook, its structure is rather unconventional:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>a shadowy piano lick repeats itself ad naseum, while <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/mark-hollis-mn0000498562" target="_blank">Mark Hollis</a> broodingly echoes the title, “Life’s What You Make It.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Synth and guitar eventually complement the
track, but it is otherwise a relatively bare bones production—at least when compared to other records of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Stream ‘Life’s What you Make It’ below:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l3VqAsMXE7o?si=TefZnn9y1tp0bYz0" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-23261838153988744452023-03-08T01:08:00.002-06:002023-03-08T11:03:30.017-06:00Men I Trust - 'Oncle Jazz'<p><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/men-i-trust-mn0003730150/biography" target="_blank">Men I Trust</a> is an indie band from Montreal. I first came across their seductive sounds while routinely listening to <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/real-estate-mn0001423784/biography" target="_blank">Real Estate</a> Radio on <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/real-estate-mn0001423784/biography" target="_blank">Pandora</a>. I am a huge fan of Real Estate's abandoned mall rock sound, which emphasizes a sort of collective loneliness. And I find myself gravitating toward the band's music when I am desiring something melodic and chill, without feeling like I am stuck on the endless loop of a monotonous spa playlist.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYECR6B957N0QPSYm31-W_REPWMJcn9gfFCi5CubELCs69RZO9AJTUpIXwAkiqIuj6-IDPLFHkOVKDIuGtktXnMOvfSwBFy_Cniemv4NJbJch34vaCd_UrbFeF1TetQRK9i1UVkSlOvv1rnYt8ljgxFG5zg4jiH6SeXgvlGOrUylDK6aK_ms/s1200/Oncle%20Jazz.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYECR6B957N0QPSYm31-W_REPWMJcn9gfFCi5CubELCs69RZO9AJTUpIXwAkiqIuj6-IDPLFHkOVKDIuGtktXnMOvfSwBFy_Cniemv4NJbJch34vaCd_UrbFeF1TetQRK9i1UVkSlOvv1rnYt8ljgxFG5zg4jiH6SeXgvlGOrUylDK6aK_ms/w200-h200/Oncle%20Jazz.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><p></p><p>In the course of listening to hours' worth of Real Estate radio while working or commuting, the algorithm had played Men I Trust's single, 'Show Me How,' several times; and each time I heard it, it resonated deeply: Slow funky bass, Francophone-accented vocals, and spacey guitar amounted to a sonic smorgasbord this old soul couldn't get enough of. </p><p>'You Deserve This' is another song the station played from time to time. That track is consistent with the theme of steamy dream pop. </p><p>When I was really lucky, the Pandora algorithm dropped 'Porcelain,' from time to time. This song is what <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/failure-mn0001280807/biography" target="_blank">Failure</a> might sound like if they had a female vocalist, in case you were wondering.</p><p>Based on the overwhelming impressiveness of these three tracks, I recently attempted to purchase the vinyl record from which they originate from, and I found many locations were out of stock of the album. I checked out the secondhand market on <a href="http://www.ebay.com" target="_blank">Ebay</a> and <a href="https://www.discogs.com/" target="_blank">Discogs</a>, and found the prices were greatly inflated. So, I ultimately tracked down a record store that could backorder it for me for a decent price, but I would have to wait at least eight weeks for the pressing to complete and be available for pick up. I easily relented and made the purchase despite the long wait, as this LP is just that good. </p><p>But don't worry; I didn't go to all this trouble of tracking down a pressing of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/oncle-jazz-mw0003322695" target="_blank"><i>Oncle Jazz</i>-</a>-yes, that is the aforementioned album's title--without enacting some due diligence. I have been able to stream the whole production in Hi-fidelity using <a href="https://www.qobuz.com/us-en/discover" target="_blank">Qobuz</a>, and every single track delivers. In fact, the album is organized somewhat as a faux radio station, similar to what <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-weeknd-mn0002674162/biography" target="_blank">The Weeknd</a> did a few years ago with <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/dawn-fm-mw0003648107" target="_blank">Dawn FM</a></i>. For example, Track 1 is in bumper format, reminding the listener they are hearing "Oncle Jazz." And Track 24 features a funked out Muzak interlude reminiscent of free form FM broadcasts from decades ago. In sum, the album is a complete work of art in which each track blends perfectly into the next. </p><p>If my hype on this band has intrigued you, I have included the video for 'Show Me How' in the player below. Enjoy! </p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OZRYzH0Q0pU" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-53139305886201149912022-12-23T01:22:00.005-06:002022-12-23T01:29:03.861-06:00BOSCO - '4th of July'<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCr9NUNPi9L1yHSk467IVgFA3dL1oAhvvhcfweF9YrLV6Z9T9XBuZhsl_H4SzKWPoCPp4gwniazGefbv8K4uf_FRa78mVZmWfnzoXHr0AVDE8hh4m2UcmcGQRBXNsAus6hvUYaPwdu0A1FmHLhdBMjhHyzVG7sPFI2VGHgbIY7oNOjAvfRYcs/s716/BOSCO%20some%20day.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="716" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCr9NUNPi9L1yHSk467IVgFA3dL1oAhvvhcfweF9YrLV6Z9T9XBuZhsl_H4SzKWPoCPp4gwniazGefbv8K4uf_FRa78mVZmWfnzoXHr0AVDE8hh4m2UcmcGQRBXNsAus6hvUYaPwdu0A1FmHLhdBMjhHyzVG7sPFI2VGHgbIY7oNOjAvfRYcs/w200-h200/BOSCO%20some%20day.webp" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to a recent referral by fellow contributor <a href="https://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800" target="_blank">Tae</a>, I have been able to embrace my Scandinavian roots, and experience some modern day infrared sauna at a nearby luxury spa. The setup is amazing; you check in and are given your own private room, complete with bluetooth audio and hundreds of internet television channels. A complete array of chromatherapy is also available. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">While the heat is unassuming for the first few minutes, once the infrared's photons have had enough time to microwave your insides, it can begin to feel like you are finishing a marathon without having set foot on a running track. Your heart rate increases, euphoria arises, and you soon discover your skin contains more pores than you ever realized, each expelling metal-laden toxicants by way of colossal perspiration. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">During one recent session, I was grinding against the heat when '4th of July' by BOSCO came on the room's bluetooth stereo. It provided the necessary inspiration for me to endure the final portion of my 40 minute session. BOSCO's vocals carried the sweet swagger of a young Janet Jackson, while the beat of the song presented an untroubled array of chilled-out R&B.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find a whole lot of information on BOSCO on the internet. The only link of substance I could really find was the one to her album, <i>Someday This Will All Make Sense,</i> on Amazon <a href="https://www.amazon.com/music/player/albums/B0859RX4D5?*entries*=0&*Version*=1" target="_blank">here</a>. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">But, you can watch the immersive video to '4th of July' by BOSCO down below. Although, without the requisite heat, your viewing results may vary:</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aha-GtvOcnY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-44221550132770962162022-04-17T17:33:00.004-05:002022-04-17T19:11:17.562-05:00Forgotten Gems: Kenny Loggins - 'I'm Gonna Do It Right'<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0JOPUNg72WiJuGBwiRH4vQkRcxGnxMwIWwxzPvfFwrDE1uj-AMB0l5vseI74HVN7Gssk6siWYewvEYJzRBRqBjjOGO4DmL1blMih81yglvhPCF0otwFeMKOgPhCnCH6L-bFqeznJVlIfMGNSCg0d68Y4U_9ebkilw-9oV0CKpckY_WI4/s600/danger.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="589" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0JOPUNg72WiJuGBwiRH4vQkRcxGnxMwIWwxzPvfFwrDE1uj-AMB0l5vseI74HVN7Gssk6siWYewvEYJzRBRqBjjOGO4DmL1blMih81yglvhPCF0otwFeMKOgPhCnCH6L-bFqeznJVlIfMGNSCg0d68Y4U_9ebkilw-9oV0CKpckY_WI4/s320/danger.jpeg" width="314" /></a></div>If you were one of the bazillion people who watched the international smash hit, <i><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0092099/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Top Gun</a></i>, when it came out back in 1986, you were likely rocked to the core by the sensational, bombastic <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/kenny-loggins-mn0000081832">Kenny Loggins</a> theme song, <a href="https://youtu.be/siwpn14IE7E">"Danger Zone"</a>.<p></p><p>And perhaps, after leaving the theater, you may have rushed out to your local record store to buy the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danger_Zone_(Kenny_Loggins_song)">7" single</a> of the song on vinyl.</p><p>Now... if I asked you what the B-side to the "Danger Zone" single is, would you guess <a href="https://youtu.be/M3cd0zxd7EU">"Playing With the Boys"</a> from the film's iconic volleyball scene?</p><p>If so, you would be wrong. </p><p>While "Playing With the Boys" (and its <a href="https://youtu.be/HNR_HofJ_Fs">accompanying scene</a>) is amazing in its own right, the song you would have actually found on Side B was "I'm Gonna Do It Right" from Loggins' 1985 album, <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/vox-humana-mw0000190711">Vox Humana</a>.</i></p><p><i>Vox Humana</i> was Loggins' fifth album, and was his first album following his wildly successful title track to the 1984 Kevin Bacon movie, <i><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087277/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Footloose</a></i>.</p><p>For many critics, <i>Vox Humana</i> was a big disappointment. Loggins was at the height of his musical powers in the mid-80s and decided to make the <i>leap of faith</i> from acoustic guitar-wielding Yacht Rocker to the dangerous zone of overproduced, synthesized pop rock.</p><p>The album also had to follow <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/high-adventure-mw0000650427">High Adventure</a></i>, Loggins' most commercially-successful album, which featured the singles, "Heart to Heart", "Heartlight", and the Grammy-nominated Steve Perry duet, "Don't Fight It".</p><p>By comparison, <i>Vox Humana</i> fell flat, despite Gold-certified sales numbers and ballad single, "Forever".</p><p>But if you slept on <i>Vox Humana</i> or forgot to flip your "Danger Zone" single over, you may have missed out on "I'm Gonna Do It Right" -- a funktastic track featuring none other than the legendary <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-pointer-sisters-mn0000894847">Pointer Sisters</a> on backup vocals and <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/sheila-e-mn0000019953">Sheila E.</a> on percussion. </p><p>It is easily one of the most uptempo dance tracks in Loggins' deep songbook, and I'm sad to say I'd never heard it until this week because it's a real club banger. As a child of the '80s, I couldn't help but love it right away. Give it a spin in the player below, and get ready to cut. foot. loose.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="322" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LqYw5RT-dFc" width="400" youtube-src-id="LqYw5RT-dFc"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Postscript: Fellow blogger, Steve, and I once attended a Kenny Loggins concert at a local casino roughly a decade ago. I went in expecting a routine run through of the hits (for which Loggins has MANY), but what I was not expecting was the exuberance and showmanship he had for performing and he belted out 30+ year old songs with the enthusiasm of a young man who'd just recorded them rather than someone who had played them thousands of times. It was a great show!</div>Taehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-21908599654879369632022-03-27T03:00:00.003-05:002022-03-27T03:00:46.844-05:00Broadcast - 'Come On Let's Go'<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvShaXp_1OetOboU8W7yDN0Li9LPqU5_CP7j9d_1A_EelAVLvQ8u4YoMYIrFiexpI0imqPujazCZ7dOI5c4fQ6k9wPnQib-Y_uGvoSffNmMbprSA86RZ8fbsHpCIy93LbXZtwZREs4GH4unw0VBMrTD49XySwib5dfJfkFPxIFFrOa71EN2I/s316/Thenoisemadebypeople.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="316" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvShaXp_1OetOboU8W7yDN0Li9LPqU5_CP7j9d_1A_EelAVLvQ8u4YoMYIrFiexpI0imqPujazCZ7dOI5c4fQ6k9wPnQib-Y_uGvoSffNmMbprSA86RZ8fbsHpCIy93LbXZtwZREs4GH4unw0VBMrTD49XySwib5dfJfkFPxIFFrOa71EN2I/w200-h200/Thenoisemadebypeople.png" width="200" /></a></div>I recently finished watching the HBO Limited Series <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scenes_from_a_Marriage_(American_miniseries)" target="_blank">Scenes From a Marriage</a></i>. To say the show is an emotional upheaval is a massive understatement. Although I can't say I am too satisfied with the story arc's final conclusion, I will say that both <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jessica_Chastain" target="_blank">Jessica Chastain</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oscar_Isaac" target="_blank">Oscar Isaac</a> pitch a brilliant acting performance that masterfully portrays the exacting tolls of matrimony. <p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">In the series finale, a brief snippet of the space age pop song 'Come On Let's Go' by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/broadcast-mn0000937150" target="_blank">Broadcast</a> is subtly featured in the background of a scene leading up to a big reveal. The result is a wonderfully curated soundtrack which effectively captures the mood of the moment. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This cinematic occasion inspired me to look more into the band. It turns out that Broadcast was formed in England in the mid-90s. They tended to create psychedelic electronica rooted in a mid century modern style. (Sort of in the same vein as 'Female of the Species' by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/space-mn0000004955" target="_blank">Space</a>). In other words, if the universe of <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mad_Men" target="_blank">Mad Men</a></i> had a house band, Broadcast very likely could have been it. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Their magna opus is <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/the-noise-made-by-people-mw0000606871" target="_blank">The Noise Made by People</a></i>, which contains the aforementioned 'Come on Let's Go.' 'Echo's Answer' is another track on the LP, which is a less melodic and more detached offering. 'Unchanging Window' seems to borrow drummer boy rhythms from <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/david-bowie-mn0000531986" target="_blank">Bowie</a>, but maybe that comparison is a forced one only because D.B. literally sang about <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/life-on-mars--mw0002541563" target="_blank">Life on Mars</a>?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Anyhow, the entirety of <i>The Noise Made By People</i> is well worth a spin, but if you want a solid introduction to the splendor of the group, definitely start with 'Come On Let's Go,' which you can stream in the player below. </p><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Zw5ztuhEat4" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-91856800527023099062022-03-27T01:27:00.000-05:002022-03-27T01:27:12.703-05:00Big Thief - 'Change'<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGBddOgzKquHIBkvHAC2psyqze79D_mcke6zfUgsukZ-vHdQGuUBvHrbOUsrbaqA_qCv_JB06VOsWyRA2hdsmXedcqvvXKPXEb7qZ2rX6_Smuj6pOIxWKqX77zfyHLulh_zhRhuau1VK_elT7Bypw3x2ohOHP8SrBmuCn9oV74Wmf-9-nMG1s/s300/Dragon_New_Warm_Mountain_I_Believe_in_You_(Big_Thief).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGBddOgzKquHIBkvHAC2psyqze79D_mcke6zfUgsukZ-vHdQGuUBvHrbOUsrbaqA_qCv_JB06VOsWyRA2hdsmXedcqvvXKPXEb7qZ2rX6_Smuj6pOIxWKqX77zfyHLulh_zhRhuau1VK_elT7Bypw3x2ohOHP8SrBmuCn9oV74Wmf-9-nMG1s/w200-h200/Dragon_New_Warm_Mountain_I_Believe_in_You_(Big_Thief).png" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A person wiser than I once told me that all relationships end. Whether it is a relative, friend, or lover, all associations cease due to death, breakup, divorce, or some other circumstance. Although a relatively simple notion, the idea had never crossed my mind before. Instead, I had often found myself clinging to the shadows of former bonds without recognizing or accepting this unavoidable reality. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">It is human nature to clutch what is familiar. On the surface, it seems ideal to try and preserve the status quo at all costs. But a world without endings is also a world without beautiful new beginnings. It is a world of lost potential and unrealized discovery. Nevertheless, the changeover from one reality to a new one can be some of the most painful journeys a person can endure.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">It isn't very often that I hear a song that can almost compel me to tears, but 'Change' by Brooklyn's <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/big-thief-mn0003449693" target="_blank">Big Thief</a> is so honest and pure, it is almost paralyzing with how fierce it depicts the grief of letting an old life go in favor of welcoming a new one in; a process that is not always a voluntary one. Singer Adrianne Lenker's vocals are tender and disarming. They present some of the most intimate pleadings to be captured on a record. </p><p></p><blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;">Would you stare forever at the sun,</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Never watch the moon rising?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Would you walk forever in the light,</p><p style="text-align: justify;">To never learn the secret of the quiet night?</p></blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;">Often, there are hidden joys to be found in the intimidating silence of the unknown. But you have to be brave enough to step into the abyss in order to find them. Is it sustainable to never depart from the known path, or do the unforeseen forks in the road instead inspire hidden resilience and strength necessary to nourish the spirit? This brilliant song does not hesitate in its answer. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">You can stream the beautiful 'Change' in the player below: </p><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MTIzsTv1ENY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-82793428987245001112022-03-24T20:32:00.000-05:002022-03-24T20:32:28.775-05:00Lord Huron - 'Mine Forever'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsVKlOQ4gi4m-PXE7ozfBwxdmjyQFsnWRee0PYr8kvyqNn8j5ZnX_TdMhD9tYZjrLffwiMjc9NqVT9MFEgxovR2EhA-jy3qAmvD4mS-1lRRXyv8I8IHptkbvTWajlwLdP0IEn4_QRdo83MlzDcHxwd_w07oGPlbKkmLlvcA67XNdp6NQ_mFU/s1500/Long%20Lost.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsVKlOQ4gi4m-PXE7ozfBwxdmjyQFsnWRee0PYr8kvyqNn8j5ZnX_TdMhD9tYZjrLffwiMjc9NqVT9MFEgxovR2EhA-jy3qAmvD4mS-1lRRXyv8I8IHptkbvTWajlwLdP0IEn4_QRdo83MlzDcHxwd_w07oGPlbKkmLlvcA67XNdp6NQ_mFU/w200-h200/Long%20Lost.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><p>Tumbling off the dusty plains from the set of a Spaghetti Western, 'Mine Forever' by Indie Folk Rockers <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/lord-huron-mn0002571333" target="_blank">Lord Huron</a> is a pleasant little jaunt of a tune. Uplifting and harmonious, the bridge of the song is truly the cherry on top for me. </p><p>If you like nostalgiac call backs to the late-60s days of Laurel Canyon, where everyone seemed to be California Dreamin' all the time, this is the track for you. </p><p>You can stream the video for 'Mine Forever' in the player below:</p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yOz3VJD4L0o" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-7486562217645168902022-03-21T21:18:00.001-05:002022-03-21T21:23:41.271-05:00 In the Defense of "Butt Rock:" A Manifesto<p style="text-align: justify;">Having been consumed with a full time career and parenthood in recent years, I may have encountered the cringe-worthy term, "Butt Rock," later than most other Internet denizens. Honestly, I was flabbergasted when I first heard some 16 year old on Tik-Tok present the slang in a smug and disparaging tone all too common amongst Gen-Z. After all, this was the very same music I came of age to. How dare they?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I immediately pondered: What is Butt Rock, and why is it so bad? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">On the issue of definition, the term apparently refers to guitar-driven rock which was released in the late-90s and much of the aughts. It isn't just nu-metal. And it isn't just neo-grunge. Instead, it is a blanket term used to describe the playlist staples of so many modern rock radio stations. You know, the kinds with the bumpers that state: "we play nothing but rock." ("But rock..." Get it now?).</p><p style="text-align: justify;">On the issue of desirability, I infer that the phantom genre is seen as "bad" because it is largely music made by privileged white guys, who sing about privileged white guy stuff, and are therefore listened to primarily by privileged white guys. After all, going after the privileged is trendy stuff these days (even though the definition of "privilege" is often a squishy one). </p><p style="text-align: justify;">But such an armchair assessment is probably too reductionist. On a purely objective musical basis the songs created by "butt rockers" often lack depth, are comprised of the simplelest of simple three-chord structures, and tend to be high octane and loud without any underlying artistic justification. Under that lens, I can appreciate the criticism.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Yet, why do I feel the need to come to the defense of Butt Rock bands? Why do I still like listening to them so much? If they are so bad for you, why do they make me feel so good? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">To answer that question requires honest self- reflection. When I first co-founded this blog seventeen years ago, I was very much like the smug 16 year old Tik-Toker mentioned above. I was significant parts arrogant and hubristic. My creator had endowed me with the gift of intelligent thought, so I thought, and therefore I must be right, while the other had to be plain dead wrong. I was dismissive of those who didn't think or approach the world the same as me:</p><p></p><blockquote><p></p><blockquote style="text-align: justify;">"Oh, you like KISS and Motley Crue, you say? Well, then, you heathen; you must be one of those toxic masculine types I learned in the virtuous circles I dabble in to avoid at all costs. Be gone Sinner!" </blockquote><p></p></blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;">Although this is a bit of exaggeration for illustrative purposes, one only need to search the early archives of this site to learn of my former sanctimony. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Today, however, I have learned to appreciate KISS. Now, my soul is stimulated when I hear the Crue on the radio or at a brew pub. The freedom this pleasure-driven rock provides me can often be a breath of fresh air from the soul crushing minutiae I may have been dealing with earlier in the day. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">But I don't necessarily think KISS and Motley Crue are truly Butt Rock in the conventional sense, although the two bands may be "Butt Rock Adjacent." (An even cringier term, I know). Instead, the bands which are brought up in conversation often include Staind, Creed, Limp Bizkit, Puddle of Mudd, Hinder, Trapt, and the always scapegoated Nickelback. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">On the one hand, several of these bands are led by problematic frontmen who have taken polarizing political positions recently (Aaron Lewis of Staind, or Chris Taylor Brown of Trapt). And several more have struggled with the demons of alcohol and substance abuse (Scott Stapp of Creed, or Wes Scantlin of Puddle of Mudd). </p><p style="text-align: justify;">But on the other hand, these bands recorded songs about addiction, depression, rejection, shame, divorce, loneliness, spirituality and the male response to those tragedies at a time when it wasn't all that acceptable. And just like any other fallible human being, sometimes the genuine male human response to heartache and devastation is ugly. All the while, that ugliness is nevertheless authentic. Life is suffering, and the human condition is equal parts beautiful and ugly. We have to accept the good with the bad if we are to get along with each other.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">So why do I get so pressed when someone chooses to dismiss the bands that I grew up with, and which I came of age to, as merely being Butt Rock? Well, at some level, the answer is largely contained within the rhetorical question I just posed: I assuredly have an emotional connection with much of the music because it provided me with more male guidance on a virtual level than the male role models I had in my real life at the time. And I am grateful for that. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">On another level, I have a respect for the pseudo-genre because of its flaws and its ugliness--the very things that make the critics hate on it so bad. These bands said what they said without worry of backlash or offending somebody. And perhaps, in these modern times where it often feels we must self-censor ourselves for fear of the offended party organizing a career-ending backlash, it is refreshing to spin some tunes that are genuine and recorded without apology. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In recent years I have often lamented to myself the oft-quoted cliche that "rock is dead." Much of the modern musicscape is dominated by electronic instruments. Even in bands where a guitar exists, its role is often meant to supplement--as opposed to lead--the musical composition. To me, the last era in which guitar heavy rock dominated the airwaves was the Butt Rock era. Possibly, then, my passionate defense is rooted in nostalgia more than anything else. Perhaps I simply long for a time when a regular Joe Schmoe of a guy could relax after a long day's work with some angsty guitar-driven licks without being condemned by some finger wagging 16 year old on Tik-Tok.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">However, if I am being honest, I am triggered by more than just nostalgia. I am triggered by more than just a teenage hooligan on social media spouting a poor hot take. Candidly, what grinds my gears is the sanctimonious judgment applied to nearly everything on the internet and in public life in general. Butt Rock may be the convenient target now, but what happens when the self righteous come after your music genre of choice? All because the people who created the music which makes you happy weren't perfect? Or because the song structure that you love so much wasn't sophisticated enough for the chosen few? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I may be screaming into the void with this manifesto, but the never ending inquisition against culture and art that makes one feel uncomfortable has to stop. Enough with the derogatory slogans. Enough with the keyboard warriors who have a superiority complex. So what, a band member once self-medicated her pain with drugs and alcohol? So what, a singer happens to espouse a worldview different from you? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Whatever became of redemption? Whatever became of the once heralded liberal ideology of free speech (meaning speech you sometimes don't agree with)? Is it fair to chastise an entire group of bands and their listeners because they don't neatly fit into the fashionable virtues of the current moment?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Butt Rock, as much as I despise the term, occupies an important place in music , and it continues to provide solace and enjoyment to millions of listeners, including myself. If you hate Butt Rock, I get it, I used to be like you. But then I grew up and learned that sometimes the most comforting art is that which is flawed, and which is in turn created by flawed artists. It is a reminder that when we are weak and experience an ugly moment as humans are apt to do, we are not alone. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">So, stop trying so hard to be perfect and flawless. Instead, assuredly embrace the facile hook of Nickelback when Chad Kroger exclaims, "It's not like you to say sorry, I was waitin' on a different story," and maybe, just maybe, you might like it a little bit if you give it a chance. </p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1cQh1ccqu8M" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-40424756505616880392021-12-21T14:08:00.004-06:002021-12-21T14:27:35.307-06:00Khruangbin - 'So We Won't Forget'<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRXpLjuatbNA4munc10FmcOiRu6Q83vEwN_yOySq4_X-J59i5_h_c3Ewwab7JKNuOznbg9eeTBGkfiBzez3IYrIMIvCN29IQitAug3Xsl-8nRHonwJUtceAkW8PJrAksdMkhbSZrnwm1b3-ccv9cwqTorVx_h1NcF3eAza54WLSu6FvX7mLQs=s1800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRXpLjuatbNA4munc10FmcOiRu6Q83vEwN_yOySq4_X-J59i5_h_c3Ewwab7JKNuOznbg9eeTBGkfiBzez3IYrIMIvCN29IQitAug3Xsl-8nRHonwJUtceAkW8PJrAksdMkhbSZrnwm1b3-ccv9cwqTorVx_h1NcF3eAza54WLSu6FvX7mLQs=w200-h200" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Although the tone of 'So We Won't Forget' is warm, spaced-out, and peaceful, its lyrics are anything but. The song's lyrics--and corresponding music video--clearly convey the eternal struggle between terminable mortality and the infinite march of time. </div><p></p><p></p><p><span face="Roboto, arial, sans-serif" jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 14px;"></span></p><blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><span style="color: #202124;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"></span></span></div><blockquote><div><span style="color: #202124;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Ooh, one to remember</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #202124;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Writing it down now</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #202124;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">So we won't forget</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #202124;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #202124;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Ooh, never enough paper</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #202124;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Never enough letters</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #202124;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">So we won't forget</span></span></div></blockquote><div><span style="color: #202124;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"></span></span></div></div></blockquote><span face="Roboto, arial, sans-serif" jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 14px;"></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The track is composed by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/khruangbin-mn0003192866/biography" target="_blank">Khruangbin</a>, a Texas outfit, whose tracks are inspired by Thai rock and funk. Their gentle harmonies, interspersed amongst tender, vibey notes, is what gives 'So We Won't Forget' its special juice.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Watch the emotional music video to 'So We Won't Forget' below:</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lo4KMGiy--Y" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-1792017637826806902021-12-08T20:36:00.005-06:002021-12-08T20:39:50.622-06:00The Zolas - 'Yung Dicaprio'<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzjQ8ITc71ksZ5fdJF3XuTIlnSLS2OJUGkq1bmX6HgXPXbzrihkRk-43k4XpWaDUpONz7PCG9rdkx4zp0S-tctdJEYmr9v1Z-XszuZVQ7FEKIFu5iaWn52cH3WPHRpIPB8BmNllA/s1024/The.Zolas.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="771" data-original-width="1024" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzjQ8ITc71ksZ5fdJF3XuTIlnSLS2OJUGkq1bmX6HgXPXbzrihkRk-43k4XpWaDUpONz7PCG9rdkx4zp0S-tctdJEYmr9v1Z-XszuZVQ7FEKIFu5iaWn52cH3WPHRpIPB8BmNllA/w229-h186/The.Zolas.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>'Yung Dicaprio' is a BritPop-inspired slapper from Canadian band <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-zolas-mn0002583805" target="_blank">The Zolas</a>. Lead singer/guitarist Zachary Gray's vocals are reminiscent of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/filter-mn0000178122" target="_blank">Filter</a>'s Richard Patrick during that alternative band's heyday (also during the nineties). <div><br /></div><div>Overall, the single is jangly and sauntering, brawny and audacious. It serves as a great pick-me-up for a Saturday evening when the night is still young (or yung?). <div><br /></div><div>Check out 'Yung Dicaprio' in the video player below:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RCxswj0mljc" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-47002659720846005142021-07-05T22:57:00.007-05:002021-07-06T00:26:53.335-05:00Jose Feliciano - 'Feliciano!'<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrP-sKTT6poq_Bi9mtpqUClYdmjLzCY1llKsUhKwd5fRJR5_4JBiKmkZzLUzf2tghacmGZqbNH_UBvtv41bDhUiBKxchELRzj6d4VzyBiX3GdXNF6B5dcgJDUQtdeLCB9jDFEhIw/s316/Feliciano%2521.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrP-sKTT6poq_Bi9mtpqUClYdmjLzCY1llKsUhKwd5fRJR5_4JBiKmkZzLUzf2tghacmGZqbNH_UBvtv41bDhUiBKxchELRzj6d4VzyBiX3GdXNF6B5dcgJDUQtdeLCB9jDFEhIw/s0/Feliciano%2521.jpeg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I first remember learning of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/feliciano-mn0000271113" target="_blank">Jose Feliciano</a> when I was watching a public television music documentary about the 1960s with my father when I was 15 or 16 years old. In the featured clip, a young, sunglass-donning Puerto Rican was belting a Latin-styled version of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-doors-mn0000114342" target="_blank">The Doors</a>' 'Light My Fire.' </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I was perplexed. I was a mini-Stan of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/jim-morrison-mn0000031022" target="_blank">Jim Morrison</a> at the time (which was the en vogue thing to be in the late-90s, following <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oliver_Stone" target="_blank">Oliver Stone</a>'s <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Doors_(film)" target="_blank">groundbreaking biopic</a> of the rock legend earlier in the decade), but I had never heard the single arranged in such a peculiar way. My dad explained to me that Feliciano was blind (hence the sunglasses), and that this particular version of 'Light My Fire' was a fairly big hit when he was in Junior High twenty five years earlier. Candidly, I wasn't very impressed.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">A few years later, while I was a student in my high school's Spanish Level 3 class, the instructor coincidentally decided to play another performance of Feliciano, once again bellowing 'Light My Fire' to acoustic guitar. And as had been my original reaction only a year or two before, I remained unmoved. (The nexus between an English-singing musical artist who just happened to be of Latin descent, and the teaching of the Spanish language to Anglo-American students seemed flimsy, even at the time).</p><p style="text-align: justify;">For the next twenty or so years, my only exposure to Jose Feliciano was on a yearly basis, when local radio broadcasted ad nauseum his Christmas anthem, 'Feliz Navidad,' a song so kitschy, the regional Mexican Restaurant chain Taco John's used it for years as<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oe11ZxGHJMw" target="_blank"> the music behind its TV commercial jingles</a>. Again, I was unimpressed.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Then, in 2019, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quentin_Tarantino" target="_blank">Quentin Tarantino</a> released his love letter to the Second Golden Age of Cinema: <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Once_Upon_a_Time_in_Hollywood" target="_blank">Once Upon a Time in Hollywood</a></i>. The stratified thriller ever-so-craftily set chic fashion, lustrous smiles, and unbridled ambition against the backdrop of the subtle and sinister forces of 1969. The linchpin to such effective mood-setting was the film's score, which includes at many times actual vintage recordings of L.A. radio D.J. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don_Steele" target="_blank">"The Real" Don Steele</a> from local A.M. station <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KHJ_(AM)" target="_blank">KHJ</a>.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">In <i>Hollywood</i>, one of the featured tracks is 'California Dreamin'--- not by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-mamas-the-papas-mn0000059293" target="_blank">The Mamas and the Papas</a>, who originally composed and popularized it, but by, you guessed it, Jose Feliciano. Feliciano's version is restrained and stretched out; it is much quieter than its antecedent. And it pairs faultlessly with the corresponding scene in the movie to set the perfect atmosphere. Unlike my previous exposure to Feliciano, I was no longer indifferent to him, but now quite astonished and intrigued.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I began to research the man and his catalog, and I discovered that Feliciano is a master of the reimagined cover song. Think on the same level as or better than <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/eric-clapton-mn0000187478" target="_blank">Eric Clapton</a>'s "Unplugged" <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4z4yuPjwWi0" target="_blank">version of 'Layla'</a> and <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/joe-cocker-mn0000149515" target="_blank">Joe Cocker</a>'s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfLyK2DVVUU" target="_blank">Woodstock version</a> of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-beatles-mn0000754032" target="_blank">The Beatles</a>' 'With a Little Help From My Friends.' Feliciano not only flawlessly remakes any song he touches into his own image, but he has done it on an incredible scale for multiple decades. Refer to his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsgRzFyGviM" target="_blank">cover</a> of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/michael-jackson-mn0000467203" target="_blank">Michael Jackson</a>'s 'Billy Jean' for just a scintilla of proof. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">A great introduction and starting point for the uninitiated to Jose Feliciano is his eponymous <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/feliciano%21-mw0000177084" target="_blank">Feliciano!</a></i>, which was released in 1968, and just happens to be his most commercially successful album. It reached Number Two on the U.S. albums chart. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Feliciano!</i> is comprised of cover songs only. It features the aforementioned 'California Dreamin' and 'Light My Fire.' It also contains three Beatles tunes. The <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/burt-bacharach-mn0000642542" target="_blank">Burt Bacharach</a> penned 'Always Something There to Remind Me' is included as well, and it is a delightful reinterpretation. But even though none of the songs on the album are an original, they are nevertheless unique and captivating, providing a gateway to an entirely new palette of music for listeners of rock music who may not have otherwise stepped in that melodious direction. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I will feature a few of the tracks from <i>Feliciano!</i> in the video players below. The album is certainly worth checking out and best listened to from start to finish, as opposed to a single at a time. It is spacious and light, but earnest and brave. It is the fitting soundtrack to a relaxing dinner, yet perplexing enough to make the pickiest audiophile ponder. It has quickly risen to become one of the favorite records in my entire collection. And that makes me very glad. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In a world of boundless access to any song ever created by way of music streaming and social media, it is refreshing and inspiring to know it is still possible to discover "new" music, so long as you are willing to open your mind and remove your preconceived notions. Jose Feliciano has patiently and authentically continued to make incredible music in a career spanning over five decades by just being himself. He has been here the whole time, even when I wasn't willing to listen. I wonder what other great artists I have foolishly deprived myself of due to hubris. I am immensely thankful to Jose and to <i>Feliciano!</i> for teaching me such a valuable lesson. </p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nt4WlmwD8Wg" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div>Jose Feliciano - 'Light My Fire'</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FKIrqC2QUvg" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div>Jose Feliciano - 'California Dreamin'</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QwW0f7u3KaU" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div>Jose Feliciano - 'In My Life'</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bSExMVJlt4U" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div>Jose Feliciano - 'Always Something There to Remind Me'</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-11699732660221293412021-06-08T08:25:00.003-05:002021-06-08T08:43:51.968-05:00Genesis Owusu - 'Gold Chains'When you go to the Twin Cities in Minnesota, it's always a smart move to turn your FM dial to <a href="https://www.thecurrent.org/">The Current on 89.3 KCMP</a>.<div><br /></div><div>The Minnesota Public Radio-owned station is a great place to hear a wide range of music, including local artists. I have discovered new music everytime I've been able to tune in to the station.</div><div><br /></div><div>I made a weekend trip to Saint Paul this past weekend, and heard everything from new Modest Mouse to Bob Marley to Arlo Parks to Prince.</div><div><br /></div><div>But one song on my drive out of town caught my attention enough to write this post -- <a href="https://youtu.be/idOcUE2C0WA">"Gold Chains"</a> by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/genesis-owusu-mn0003513301/biography">Genesis Owusu</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfliDxjAMtEIwP7KrCd4cSXyh6Xj5XTpjAPRzl9PeYYqBZnYA2lhyphenhyphengVcLOqiV9mm7E5LwpXvpZdEpQqS6cSoGi7nP-h8EYfE2bUow86dnKUawZt0KvDia2AZUBJB1j5s431z8/s271/genesis.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="186" data-original-width="271" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfliDxjAMtEIwP7KrCd4cSXyh6Xj5XTpjAPRzl9PeYYqBZnYA2lhyphenhyphengVcLOqiV9mm7E5LwpXvpZdEpQqS6cSoGi7nP-h8EYfE2bUow86dnKUawZt0KvDia2AZUBJB1j5s431z8/w320-h220/genesis.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Owusu, a 23-year-old Ghanaian-born Australian, started recording just a few years ago. According to his Wikipedia page, Owusu got his unlikely break in 2019, opening for the sold out <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/5-seconds-of-summer-mn0003185359">5 Seconds of Summer</a> benefit concert in Sydney.</div><div><br /></div><div>Owusu's debut album, <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/smiling-with-no-teeth-mw0003484347">Smiling with No Teeth</a>, came out in March, 2021, and combines elements of experimental R&B, Hip Hop and Alternative Rock for a unique sound. The album debuted at #27 on the Australian charts but hasn't quite taken off in the U.S. yet.</div><div><br /></div><div>On his single, "Gold Chains", Owusu assumes the dual roles of soulful crooner and smooth MC, singing and rapping over glitchy trickles of late night electro-funk. You can watch the official music video to "Gold Chains" in the YouTube player below. </div><div><br /></div><div>There's already <a href="https://youtu.be/bklXvVAmeR4">a cool remix of the song</a> by Harvey Sutherland, and if you liked "Gold Chains", I would also highly recommend Owusu's latest single, <a href="https://youtu.be/G9ReQ_mEFrQ">"Same Thing"</a> with its Prince-like guitar lick and <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/frank-ocean-mn0002592086">Frank Ocean</a>-meets-<a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/thundercat-mn0002424073">Thundercat</a> delivery.</div><div><br /></div><div>For more on Genesis Owusu, visit: <a href="https://www.genesisowusu.com/">https://genesisowusu.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/idOcUE2C0WA" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Taehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-33614685966845720282021-05-24T13:35:00.004-05:002021-05-24T15:51:26.268-05:00Behind the Sample: 'NARD<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKWiz5IXrYfwvSkX1KOhiCWxdIxWinmHKCWY_zYEtUtZGWGcK1TCIUGK84nEVOl87q_4kQPC1jGBhAxiio45nkyEUFV-crJ84dZ3o7jEA-ZPGzKPsKwx1K4RUp8vMJQtN9-bU/s300/Nard_1981.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKWiz5IXrYfwvSkX1KOhiCWxdIxWinmHKCWY_zYEtUtZGWGcK1TCIUGK84nEVOl87q_4kQPC1jGBhAxiio45nkyEUFV-crJ84dZ3o7jEA-ZPGzKPsKwx1K4RUp8vMJQtN9-bU/w334-h334/Nard_1981.jpeg" width="334" /></a></div>One of my favorite aspects of Hip Hop music is discovering the musical legacy behind the singles. I love it when I stumble across an old tune and instantly recognize it from its use in a more-famous rap song. I've found a lot of great music this way over the years.<p></p><p>Many of the Hip Hop genre's biggest hits have sampled from Jazz, Funk, R&B and Rock songs, and from the earliest days of the rap scene, artists would dig through crates of old records for inspiration. Sometimes just a few seconds from a dusty old album would speak to an artist enough to sample, loop and rhyme over. </p><p>For many young artists without the means for expensive musical equipment, two turntables and a microphone (cue Beck) were enough to create unique, original music.</p><p>Just last week, I was having a conversation about samples with a coworker and asked him if he'd ever listened to <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bernard-wright-mn0000057427/discography">Bernard Wright</a>'s album, <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/nard-mw0000470028">'NARD</a>, because a couple of the album's tracks have been prominently featured in some of Hip Hop's greatest hits.</p><p>He was unfamiliar, and realizing I didn't actually own it myself, I promptly ordered myself a copy of the LP on Discogs. I've been happily spinning it since and that brings me to today's post...</p><p>'Nard is the near definition of a forgotten gem.</p><p>Bernard Wright was born in Jamaica, Queens in 1963--the son of the legendary <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/roberta-flack-mn0000290072">Roberta "Killing Me Softly" Flack</a>. A prodigal young jazz/funk keyboardist, Wright began touring with jazz drummer <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/lenny-white-mn0000246487">Lenny White</a> when he was only 13-years-old.</p><p>Wright's debut album, 'Nard, was recorded when he was just 16 and released in 1981. While the album didn't gain as much momentum as it deserved, it did make it to #7 on the Billboard Jazz charts, and the single, "Just Chillin' Out", made the charts for both US R&B and Dance that year.</p><p>But here we are, 40 years later, and the album still holds up. </p><p>From the wacky, funked-out roller coaster trip of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obaK2mex2mY">"Haboglabotribin'"</a> to the beautiful piano rendition of Miles Davis' "Solar" concluding the album, 'Nard is a musical joy ride.</p><p>Wright's commercial career peaked a few short years later with the single <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XT48-LLs0tI">"Who Do You Love?"</a> (which was later the base for LL Cool J's hit single, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwqBr8HXhyw">"Loungin"</a>).</p><p>But back to 'Nard...</p><p>If you've ever heard the song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lj6jedDiUK0">"Gz & Hustlas"</a> from <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/snoop-dogg-mn0000029086">Snoop Doggy Dogg</a>'s 1993 breakout masterpiece, Doggystyle, you'll instantly recognize Bernard Wright's connection when you hear "Haboglabotribin'".</p><p>A few years after Snoop, 2Pac sampled the same song on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifVebZ2MtOs">"Lie to Kick It"</a> from his album, R U Still Down?</p><p>The song's music box intro transitioning to full on, bass-slappin' funk was a major player in the memorable Snoop anthem. Wright's amusement park raps and tweaked vocals throughout the song feel like a lost track from <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/george-clinton-mn0000533117">George Clinton</a>. It's goofy and weird, but funky as all get out.</p><p>Speaking of slap bass, the album's next track, "Spinnin'" is even more impressive -- highlighting Wright's keyboard skills and a tight horn section bringing to mind <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/earth-wind-fire-mn0000135273">Earth, Wind & Fire</a> or <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/kool-the-gang-mn0000777210">Kool & the Gang</a>.</p><p>Around the 1:25 mark, the song suddenly switches gears to a laid back vibe. That :15 seconds of chill was later sampled on the self-deprecating megahit 1995 song, "I Wish" by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/skee-lo-mn0000749530">Skee-Lo</a>. </p><p>Check out Bernard Wright's "Spinnin'" in the YouTube clip below, and then watch Skee-Lo's classic music video to hear the sample.</p><p>Songs from the album have also been sampled by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/afros-mn0000035270">The Afros</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNc1chgA5-U">Yo-Yo feat. Ice Cube</a>, and <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/anotha-level-mn0000590061">Anotha Level</a>, and dozens of other artists.</p><p>The whole 'Nard album is worth checking out if you haven't heard it, and used copies of the out-of-print LP aren't difficult or expensive to find online. Enjoy!</p><p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uCW7kcsS0M0" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p><p>(The sampled clip on "Spinnin'" first appears at 1:25)</p><p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cmXZOI7cM0M" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>Taehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-69535723771526597162021-05-22T02:41:00.001-05:002021-05-22T02:59:04.488-05:00Guest Poster Cassidy: Rihanna - 'Disturbia<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>We would like to welcome guest poster Cassidy to the blog. Born in 1996, from time to time she may choose to regale us with her unique "Zillenial" musical point of view. </i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Today, she talks about Rihanna's monster smash 'Disturbia:' </i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><br /></i></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c0d112d-7fff-2d06-580b-62203b18eb7a" wfd-id="0"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="12"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;" wfd-id="27"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNR62EotPP_RL3kBXG39I7-vEERSya5bAZCYqCSCJSgsM-7bEdoCLqA0QLgAyzdCWjUqB0cH89NmywqNhfP31TKa-RRZPYV3UCegr_yGQS1DcPmo72QbAoJgpc6bbiZ76jRu1lA/s2092/Rihanna.Disturbia.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="889" data-original-width="2092" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNR62EotPP_RL3kBXG39I7-vEERSya5bAZCYqCSCJSgsM-7bEdoCLqA0QLgAyzdCWjUqB0cH89NmywqNhfP31TKa-RRZPYV3UCegr_yGQS1DcPmo72QbAoJgpc6bbiZ76jRu1lA/s320/Rihanna.Disturbia.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="11"><span style="font-family: arial;">In 2008, 'Disturbia' by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/rihanna-mn0000367188/biography">Rihanna</a> came out. It seems impossible that it has been 13 years since this club hit was released, and as we all know time passes us by, and it passes us by <i>quickly</i>. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="10"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="9"><span style="font-family: arial;">As I have gotten older, I have started to appreciate the early to mid 00’s hits that defined my childhood; namely, staying with my big brother at his apartment and watching <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MTV_Hits">MTV Hits</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuse_(TV_channel)">Fuse</a> (when it was still a thing). </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="8"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="7"><span style="font-family: arial;">I vividly remember staying up during all hours of the night, my tween brain addicted to recognizing songs that I had grown up on and newer songs that were airing at the time. It seems like yesterday when I remember hearing the the hook in Rihanna’s 'Disturbia' at 2 a.m., and entertaining the fix to watch the music video. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="6"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="5"><span style="font-family: arial;">'Disturbia' was a radio hit that year, and it was always played at the pool I went to as a kid. When I think back to that year, I can remember how badly I wanted to be in my mid-twenties, going to the club and being able to "adult" (I know - very self aware). I am almost 25 years old now, and every time I hear 'Disturbia' it takes me back to being 12 years old, the warm sun on my skin at the pool and not a care in the world. It actually makes me want to go back to being a kid (it’s funny how things change). </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="4"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="3"><span style="font-family: arial;">While 'Disturbia' was the focus of this post, I do want to give a huge shoutout to the other hits that came out in 2008. During that year, and other years while he lived there, I vividly remember hanging out at my older brother’s apartment and just enjoying the music. Every time I hear Rihanna, <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/t-pain-mn0000258000/biography">T-Pain</a>, or <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/akon-mn0000933458/biography">Akon</a>, it truly takes me back to a great time in my life, specifically, getting to hangout with my big brother. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div wfd-id="1"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;" wfd-id="2"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;" wfd-id="2"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E1mU6h4Xdxc" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;" wfd-id="1"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;" wfd-id="0"><i>Steve's Response</i>: Cassidy: Thank-you for the guest post. 'Disturbia' was definitely a monster MTV Video Hit when it was released. I still remember the live performance on the 2008 MTV VMAs. It is definitely a part of the popular music canon today. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-69006151175757159542021-04-30T09:17:00.005-05:002021-04-30T09:24:01.491-05:00Little Simz - 'Introvert'<p>We're now less than a month away from the one-year anniversary of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_George_Floyd">George Floyd</a>'s death, and the past year--though tumultuous and frustrating--has shed light on many problems that still persist in this country.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_4PNZbvvwjcArqmZJquOdyhe9J80q0xuI70_G5JTDF4c_Q_qTMzecGMIxxhogx_LU5yudT3fFz0z3c2d_ThogtqOlLEnjZlXziA0e0fookhT1OZ08xE3yuS3XOvJB7ewX8w/s1280/introvert.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_4PNZbvvwjcArqmZJquOdyhe9J80q0xuI70_G5JTDF4c_Q_qTMzecGMIxxhogx_LU5yudT3fFz0z3c2d_ThogtqOlLEnjZlXziA0e0fookhT1OZ08xE3yuS3XOvJB7ewX8w/w400-h225/introvert.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>The weekend leading up to St. Patrick's Day last year, my wife and I took a trip to Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Minnesota. COVID-19 had hit stateside at that point, but it wasn't until a few days later that the whole country would essentially go into lockdown. The catchphrase, "We're all in this together" soon became the unofficial motto of the pandemic. <p></p><p>But just a couple of months later, in that same city, George Floyd was killed while under policy custody and the whole world took notice. The viral video of police officer <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Derek_Chauvin">Derek Chauvin</a> kneeling on Floyd's neck for 9-1/2 minutes sent shockwaves across the internet. For many Americans, this moment was a wake up call. For many black Americans, it unfortunately felt like the same story, different day... but this time others listened.</p><p>The civil unrest boiled over soon after, with <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Floyd_protests_in_Minneapolis%E2%80%93Saint_Paul">George Floyd Protests</a> and Black Lives Matter marches in streets across the country, protesting police brutality, racial inequality and systemic racism. Riots in the Twin Cities led to over 600 arrests and around $500 million in property damage, but the message was heard. </p><p>Nearly a year later, officer Chauvin has been found guilty in Floyd's murder. For many, it feels like justice has finally been served in the face of countless other cases where no conviction took place. But there is still a long way to go before equality is reached, even if this moment triggered a movement.</p><p>In the Hip Hop world, many artists took the emotions of the past year and channeled them into song. One of the most powerful songs and music videos I've come across is from British rapper <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/little-simz-mn0003267919">Little Simz</a> in her new song, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxfGQ2AJHGk">"Introvert"</a>.</p><p>Little Simz, AKA Simbiatu 'Simbi' Abisola Abiola Ajikawo, is a London-based rapper, singer and actress of Nigerian heritage. Her forthcoming album, <i>Sometimes I Might Be Introvert</i>, is due in September 2021.</p><p>Opening with a military-style drumline, "Introvert" builds to a sweeping orchestral and choir arrangement with Little Simz' emotive and dynamic lyrics carrying the message of empowerment. The video features beautifully-shot modern choreography.</p><p>All of the song's lyrics are important, but here's one snippet that struck a chord with me:</p><p></p><blockquote><p><i>"Look beyond the surface don’t just see what you wanna see</i></p><p><i>My speech ain’t involuntary</i></p><p><i>Project with intention straight from my lungs</i></p><p><i>I’m a black woman and I’m proud one</i></p><p><i>We walk in blind faith not knowing the outcome</i></p><p><i>But as long as we unified then we’ve already won."</i></p></blockquote><p>Watch the video for Little Simz' <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxfGQ2AJHGk">"Introvert"</a> below, via YouTube. For more on this artist, visit: <a href="http://www.littlesimz.com">www.littlesimz.com</a></p><p></p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hxfGQ2AJHGk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Taehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-88027853285902296182021-04-26T14:23:00.003-05:002021-04-26T15:27:07.466-05:00Vök - 'Lost in the Weekend'<p>A few summers ago, I took a memorable trip to Iceland. The country's stark and dramatic landscape was breathtaking. We drove the coastal highway between sporadic, quaint towns, flanked by the ocean on one side and rocky cliffs and waterfalls on the other. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKC9UKTQOtPKWVXdgVadW94HL3JMBcSkaCaHnceCi_eOKXyl6LnrqHkITUrOjcrKanXTF6_-SOfFoKQ-lQHdwg47T6RZeYt4KykcFVUN4VuZVPspg3yd0P4cS2aFh1KdyF1Ic/s1080/IMG_7432.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKC9UKTQOtPKWVXdgVadW94HL3JMBcSkaCaHnceCi_eOKXyl6LnrqHkITUrOjcrKanXTF6_-SOfFoKQ-lQHdwg47T6RZeYt4KykcFVUN4VuZVPspg3yd0P4cS2aFh1KdyF1Ic/s320/IMG_7432.JPG" /></a></div>We stayed on a volcanic island (Vestmannaeyjar) one night, a horse farm in the middle of--essentially--nowhere on another, and in a domed glass rental house nestled deep inside a valley the next. We threw our coats over the windows to block out the near 24-hour-daylight of the summer season. Time, as a construct, was pretty meaningless when it was as bright going to bed as waking up, and it took a bit more discipline to go to sleep at any point.<p></p><p>We waded in natural hot springs--both established and off the beaten path--and soaked up the cool misty air and amazing views around us. We drove down windy gravel roads without seeing another car for miles on end. We ate amazing food, drank local beer and experienced the capital city of Reykjavik's vibrant and artistic culture. </p><p>I was astounded that the country's entire population (approx. 357,000) was on par with that of my own small city back home in Des Moines, Iowa. In other words, once you got outside the bustling airport and tourist attractions, Iceland was an easy place to disappear into solitude.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7ROjij_J6TOP4f5-oISwRExNV-GKwh7EDmXZafSInedaUR8dd8HgM59ZpZNKBxDyGVEpcl_cg_0Q0pbMISB75g5mxcKwrRDMQDZY76T0ugkpkKaTruNucderp3PZCSTeQPk/s2048/IMG_7305.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7ROjij_J6TOP4f5-oISwRExNV-GKwh7EDmXZafSInedaUR8dd8HgM59ZpZNKBxDyGVEpcl_cg_0Q0pbMISB75g5mxcKwrRDMQDZY76T0ugkpkKaTruNucderp3PZCSTeQPk/s320/IMG_7305.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p>While in Reykjavik on our last full day before flying home, we stopped into the super cool <a href="https://luckyrecords.is/">Lucky Records</a>. </p><p>The shop was already closing for the day, but we still had just enough time to comb through the local music section and put on headphones to listen to some unfamiliar Icelandic artists. I was, of course, familiar with the likes of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bj%C3%B6rk-mn0000769444">Björk</a> and <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/sigur-r%C3%B3s-mn0000753868">Sigur Rós</a>, but there was a sea of music at my fingertips to explore in a short time. </p><p>I only had enough room in my suitcase to stash one LP without the threat of bending, so I had to act quickly and decisively in my purchase.</p><p>And then I turned my headphones on to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V%C3%B6k">Vök</a>.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCLDm4F9xtWQ9RZ1EJSJhuv7Z_zmNqEDh2Hl87FwQLoTAaktzE2ReVXfx2wbCp9CuPxzRWhLfuB2DhNI7P2z-TzM1Fh23uP0O7z9n97CqO2Mq4gp9UKsc3XxT9xSGOosK6Qk/s2048/IMG_7480.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1475" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCLDm4F9xtWQ9RZ1EJSJhuv7Z_zmNqEDh2Hl87FwQLoTAaktzE2ReVXfx2wbCp9CuPxzRWhLfuB2DhNI7P2z-TzM1Fh23uP0O7z9n97CqO2Mq4gp9UKsc3XxT9xSGOosK6Qk/s320/IMG_7480.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The Icelandic dreampop trio instantly caught my ear when I put on their album, <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/figure-mw0003025336">Figure</a>. The pensive and introspective atmospherics and pulsating rhythms encapsulated much of the feeling and emotion that I'd had driving around the countryside that week.<p></p><p>The store clerk tapped me and said, "Okay, we're closing now", which snapped me out of my music-induced stupor. I quickly snatched up a copy of the album and a red t-shirt with the Lucky Records logo, as the employees locked the doors behind me.</p><p>That record, Vök's <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/figure-mw0003025336">Figure</a>, made it home in one piece, fortunately, and still brings me back to that trip whenever I put it on.</p><p>Earlier this month, the band released a new music video to their latest single, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZJ2RoFzvQw">"Lost in the Weekend"</a>, describing it as focusing, <i>"...on the ease of over-indulgence when you’re living in the moment and the purposeful loss of a sense of self."</i></p><p>It seems like a pretty good takeaway message. For me, Reykjavik would have been an easy place to get lost in the moment--losing all sense of what day or time it was in endless daylight, surrounded by art and music and food and drink. As much as I enjoyed my time in the city, it was the stunning landscape of the nearby countryside that brought me the most self-reflection and relaxation.</p><p>You can watch the video for "Lost in the Weekend" below, via <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChMp2yW0NNOA62MGi6db7Nw">Vök's YouTube</a>:</p><p>For more on Vök's music, visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Vokband/?ref=page_internal">the band's Facebook page</a>.</p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kZJ2RoFzvQw" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Taehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-53162251096995736652021-04-21T10:45:00.008-05:002021-04-23T08:29:36.870-05:00Revisiting the Original Mortal Kombat Soundtrack<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2af9iJ5cEw6FWEboZ0611p1_7BMmxtBDiF5IOfH0N6syfn3IAkMqMdgVz390KIOtN79Q0prN5-IFR7dyVZvNTAOEP2Y0jLyZewEtHwKZRv1mnP_2f0polQCj59yAgmdLa2I/s900/Mortal_Kombat_Sdtk_3x3.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2af9iJ5cEw6FWEboZ0611p1_7BMmxtBDiF5IOfH0N6syfn3IAkMqMdgVz390KIOtN79Q0prN5-IFR7dyVZvNTAOEP2Y0jLyZewEtHwKZRv1mnP_2f0polQCj59yAgmdLa2I/s320/Mortal_Kombat_Sdtk_3x3.jpeg" /></a></div>With this Friday's highly anticipated (and R-rated) <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0293429/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">Mortal Kombat</a> movie release, I thought I'd revisit the legacy and personal impact the franchise had on me growing up.<p></p><p>Back in 1995, when I was a 12-year-old, braces-wearing, comic book-trading nerd playing Sega at my friend's house up the street, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortal_Kombat_(1992_video_game)">Mortal Kombat</a> was the epitome of cool. It was edgy, violent and addictive.</p><p>The overtly brutal game encouraged you to take on your friends, cage match style. This was before XBox and PS5 let you talk smack to random strangers online, and you instead had to sit in farty bean bag chairs next to one another and battle it out, yelling, "Get over here!", "Toasty!", and "Finish him!"</p><p>Now, more than 25 years later, Mortal Kombat still finds an audience. It's rare for something to stay relevant for so many years, crossing generations. I've been away from the game for some time now, but I still got excited when <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYH2sLid0Zc">the trailer </a>to the new movie came out recently.</p><p>The 1995 <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113855/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_3">Mortal Kombat film</a> by the same name was a doozy. I saw it in the theater, of course. It was by no means an Oscar contender, but it accomplished what it needed to, hindered only by a PG-13 rating. It's pretty dated to watch the movie now, but man, does it take you back in time.</p><p> The plot was simple: three martial artists travel to a secret island to fight in an underground tournament to determine the fate of the world. The talents of <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0795225/?ref_=tt_cl_t2">Robin Shou</a> and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0846480/?ref_=tt_cl_t4">Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa</a> carried the film, while <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000483/?ref_=tt_cl_t1">Christopher "Highlander" Lambert</a>--for some reason--played the Japanese Thundergod, Raiden.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-IIHRCPlCaMoc1pFMt7VeuiF859uL6Go4GLMFPlshnDfYrfiHlbplRJUpIU8OhdP4gEzHcsJRsdrLKIxKhMJ5sGktkoptuUFXQqfXR6bGdc50jIT8egoEObpj8aSoKub7XU/s500/mortal.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-IIHRCPlCaMoc1pFMt7VeuiF859uL6Go4GLMFPlshnDfYrfiHlbplRJUpIU8OhdP4gEzHcsJRsdrLKIxKhMJ5sGktkoptuUFXQqfXR6bGdc50jIT8egoEObpj8aSoKub7XU/s320/mortal.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>The success of the 1995 film was also <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortal_Kombat_(1995_soundtrack)">due in part to its soundtrack</a>. The theme song, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aidem5-kheE">"Techno Syndrome (Mortal Kombat)"</a> by the Immortals was one of the hottest tracks of the year. You might know it as the techno song that periodically screams "MORTAL KOMBAT!"<p></p><p>But to write the soundtrack off as a gimmick would be unfair. It also contained some great original music, crossing the aggressive genres of heavy metal and techno. Not all of the songs on the original motion picture soundtrack were featured in the film itself, but the mood fits throughout. Metal bands like <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/type-o-negative-mn0000206465">Type O Negative</a> and <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/napalm-death-mn0000371258">Napalm Death</a> were featured alongside electronic acts like <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/orbital-mn0000481354">Orbital</a> and <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/utah-saints-mn0000304102">Utah Saints</a>, taking the soundtrack as high as #10 on the Billboard Top 200 that year.</p><p>Amongst my personal favorite tracks were <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxsCr4uBHWE">"Goodbye (demo version)"</a> by industrial rock group <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/gravity-kills-mn0000739975">Gravity Kills</a>, and the smoldering <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQYvvLUtaLE">"Burn"</a> by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/sister-machine-gun-mn0000012671">Sister Machine Gun</a>.<br /></p><p>But it's Orbital's 9-1/2 minute-long masterpiece <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halcyon_(Orbital_song)">"Halcyon + On + On"</a> that has stood the test of time. The ambient and melodic track slowly builds up, utilizing a delicate piano and guitar loop and a backmasked vocal sample from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MY15dS2vTZ4">"It's Fine Day" by Opus III</a> for its angelic, trance-like nature.</p><p>It's an extended version of the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SwwljI-8JY">original Orbital single</a>, and probably one of the greatest soundtrack songs of all time, having also been used in <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113243/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">Hackers</a>, and later, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0377092/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">Mean Girls</a>. It's also one of my favorite songs of all time, so I'm honestly disappointed in myself that in 16 years of writing for the Lonely Note, I've never actually posted about this song before. </p><p>All through Jr. High and High School, my friends and I would put the cd on track #6, set the boom box to repeat and listen to it over and over again while we'd hang out and talk about life, so it brings back a flood of memories anytime I hear it. Never heard it? You can listen to "Halcyon + On + On" in the YouTube clip below.</p><p>I should also mention that I bought the follow up compilation album, 1996's <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortal_Kombat:_More_Kombat">Mortal Kombat: More Kombat</a>. It also featured some great tracks continuing in the same industrial direction, including songs from <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/god-lives-underwater-mn0000559040">God Lives Underwater</a>, <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/sepultura-mn0000741746">Sepultura</a>, the <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-crystal-method-mn0000136124">Crystal Method</a>, and a song called "My Ruin" by Crawlspace (later known as <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/sevendust-mn0000016132">Sevendust</a>).</p><p>Will 2021's Mortal Kombat reboot live up to the hype? It's one of the latest films to be simultaneously released to theaters and HBOMAX, and the trailer has a lot of fans (AKA other dudes in their 30s) worked up. </p><p>Will it have a killer soundtrack? That is yet to be determined, but there is a pretty sweet updated <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7XvA9gOCxQ">"Techno Syndrome 2021"</a> theme song remix to go with it, so it's a start!</p><h1 class="header" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: medium none; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 29.7px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></h1>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bV-hSgL1R74" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Taehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-3239750759001581752021-04-19T10:04:00.002-05:002021-04-19T10:08:46.518-05:00Cannons - 'Bad Dream'<p>The dark, moody synthpop of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannons_(band)">Cannons</a>' latest single, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fz4axHOyccQ">"Bad Dream"</a>, would have fit right in on the soundtrack to the 2011 movie <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0780504/">Drive</a> had it been released a decade earlier.</p><p>A continuation of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synthwave">synthwave</a> movement, Cannons hits on all the right notes that fans of retro '80s-90s culture, music and film love. Fans of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-xx-mn0002016312">The xx</a>, <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/m83-mn0000175525">M83</a> and the<a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/chromatics-mn0000118798"> Chromatics</a> should find Cannons equally-appealing.</p><p>The video to "Bad Dream" feels like a mashup between <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0098936/">Twin Peaks</a> and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4574334/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">Stranger Things</a>, with a hint of Netflix true crime series and a splash of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcWPiHjIExA">Napoleon Dynamite dance moves</a> to boot. Cassette boom boxes, giant cell phones, tube TVs, Ford Broncos and sequins all round out this creepy trip down nostalgia lane.</p><p>Watch the video for "Bad Dream" below, and visit the official <a href="https://www.cannonstheband.com/">Cannons website</a> for more:</p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Fz4axHOyccQ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Taehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-54050635100960405762021-04-19T09:07:00.001-05:002021-04-19T09:24:23.612-05:00London Grammar - 'How Does It Feel'Hannah Reid's soaring vocals take center stage on <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/london-grammar-mn0003066904/biography">London Grammar</a>'s new album, <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/californian-soil-mw0003438436">Californian Soil</a>.<div><br /></div><div>The English indie-pop trio have teased new singles for the last 9 months leading up to the album's release just three days ago.</div><div><br /></div><div>London Grammar takes sparse, dreamlike electronic and guitar arrangements and layers them with Reid's echoed, classically-trained vocals. It's delicate, it's haunting, it's undeniably catchy.</div><div><br /></div><div>Reid's dramatic vocals and cathartic delivery bring to mind <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/florence-the-machine-mn0002124046">Florence Welch</a>, while musicians Dan Rothman and Dot Major round out the group's ambient stylings and bring elements of trip-hop and electronica/dance.</div><div><br /></div><div>On singles, "How Does It Feel" and "Lord, It's a Feeling", the group takes their sound up a notch, complementing delicate atmospheric elements with epic waves of emotion. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can watch the official video for "How Does It Feel" and the official visualizer for "Lord, It's a Feeling" below, via YouTube. </div><div><br /></div><div>For more on London Grammar and their latest release, Californian Soil, visit <a href="http://londongrammar.com">londongrammar.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xo3xBBZzRAk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4ur64JT20Sk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>Taehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-37223032018526069072021-04-15T01:06:00.002-05:002021-04-15T01:14:34.131-05:00Julian Lennon - 'Valotte'<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;" wfd-id="5"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTBbX-borSaWia6spikUP1rTN6RbFW3pzoq2OB5Mfi9DNSB1uc7DEOcWdQPhWqRbnPb0ksAQUvm_uVb2L_ZUhv_u7rBJAWhn0Tjli1JgeebKrFl2_xY9-6laexJDuDI7eRwNrYw/s1425/Valotte.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1425" data-original-width="1411" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTBbX-borSaWia6spikUP1rTN6RbFW3pzoq2OB5Mfi9DNSB1uc7DEOcWdQPhWqRbnPb0ksAQUvm_uVb2L_ZUhv_u7rBJAWhn0Tjli1JgeebKrFl2_xY9-6laexJDuDI7eRwNrYw/s320/Valotte.jpg" /></a></div>My keen preoccupation with piano ballads continues to dominate the conversation with a spotlight on a 1984 single by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/beatle-mn0000754032" target="_blank">Beatles</a> offspring, <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/julian-lennon-mn0000260384" target="_blank">Julian Lennon</a>. <p></p><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">'Valotte' was the opening track of the <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/valotte-mw0000194597" target="_blank">eponymous debut album</a> of <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/john-mn0000232564" target="_blank">John Lennon</a>'s eldest son. And while the album may be lazily remembered by armchair musicologists for the much poppier 'Too Late For Goodbyes,' 'Valotte' is the stronger composition in my opinion. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Released only a few years after the elder Lennon's murder, the track is haunting on multiple levels: for its lyrical depiction of a romantic relationship in its waning days; and perhaps more so for its vocals and stylings that sound nearly identical to a beloved man who was no longer alive. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">While I am sure many Beatles fans clamored for Julian's musical offerings in the wake of his father's death, I am just as sure its fruition nevertheless served as an unfortunate reminder that the biological impersonation can rarely fill the void left by the loss of its progenitor. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is not to say that Julian's music is bad or subpar---far from it. Instead, I merely point out that, while he may have been privileged to have a mythic musician for a father, he was likewise disadvantaged by the same's inescapable shadow. No matter how immensely talented Julian could ever be, the wound of his father's death was too fresh for fans to move on from and to separate from the son.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">(Don't believe me? Take note of the career trajectory of Julian's half-brother--and John's son with <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/yoko-ono-mn0000521704" target="_blank">Yoko Ono</a>--<a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/sean-lennon-mn0000838599" target="_blank">Sean Lennon</a>, a likewise talented and brilliant artist in his own right). </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Nevertheless, I believe enough time has passed for 'Valotte,' the song, to be given an independent look and listen. Structurally, the track is full of infectious hooks and plaintive verses. </p><blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="4">Sitting on a pebble by the river playing guitar </div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="3">Wondering if we're really ever gonna get that far </div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="2">Do you know there's something wrong </div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="1">'Cause I've felt it all along</div></blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;">And its measured march toward the rewarding choral climax is splendidly tender. Had <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/billy-joel-mn0000085915" target="_blank">Billy Joel</a> or <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/elton-john-mn0000796734" target="_blank">Elton John</a> penned this song, it would have been canonized. Think about that, and keep an open mind, when you take a look at the video for Julian Lennon's 'Valotte' below:</p><div style="text-align: left;" wfd-id="1"><blockquote></blockquote></div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NP4YHXnft1w" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-13258514822622402152021-04-13T01:07:00.005-05:002021-04-13T01:16:30.068-05:00Billy Joel -'Big Shot' + 'Honesty' + 'My Life' + 'Zanzibar' + 'Stiletto'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;" wfd-id="61"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;" wfd-id="112"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;" wfd-id="113"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;" wfd-id="114"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi0_sTaJthnOLrS-0QgUwm1Fcc9xglQaxihtZiafp7aAKmEV0BEmjpXe_iI7QE1DeXdS46HzpbENgZlIcXOUcC-_KcSs5FkHP257hSdGHtoG4H0mID5XjHsSLSZXlzcUpKb72DZA/s300/Billy.Joel.52nd.Street.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi0_sTaJthnOLrS-0QgUwm1Fcc9xglQaxihtZiafp7aAKmEV0BEmjpXe_iI7QE1DeXdS46HzpbENgZlIcXOUcC-_KcSs5FkHP257hSdGHtoG4H0mID5XjHsSLSZXlzcUpKb72DZA/s0/Billy.Joel.52nd.Street.jpg" /></a></div>Anymore, it is rare as hen's teeth for a studio album to contain a sequence that keeps hitting track after consecutive track after consecutive track. <br /></div></div></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="59"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="31">I suppose much of that may have to do with the single-centric music culture we seem to find ourselves in. And perhaps much more of that may have to do with the short attention spans the plurality of the American citizenry seem to currently have as well. What with the Tik-Toks and the Snapchats and the Tweets, the dopamine injections social media provides is often a much more attractive option for one to spend an evening doing than to actively listen to a longform audible masterpiece that requires more than five minutes of focus.</div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="30"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;" wfd-id="27"><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="56">But I digress.</div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="29"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="28">Of course, many <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-beatles-mn0000754032/biography" target="_blank">Beatles</a> albums fit the bill of sequential sublimity; as do those by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/michael-jackson-mn0000467203/biography" target="_blank">Michael Jackson</a>. Probably my earliest firsthand experiences with such a treasure trove of continuous audio bliss were with <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/ten-mw0000265614" target="_blank">Ten</a></i> by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/pearl-jam-mn0000037730" target="_blank">Pearl Jam</a> and <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/nevermind-mw0000185616" target="_blank">Nevermind</a></i> by <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/nirvana-mn0000357406" target="_blank">Nirvana</a>. The first half--if not more-- of both of those albums have an indescribable chemistry, a consummate formulation that would do worse if produced in any other way. I am sure there are numerous examples of other like-kind albums that I am forgetting or neglecting to mention right now.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="26"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="25"><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/billy-joel-mn0000085915/biography" target="_blank">Billy Joel</a>'s 1978 release, <i><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/52nd-street-mw0000190509" target="_blank">52nd Street</a>, </i>fits the definition of the seamless album structure as described above. At least the first five songs on the album consist of one of my favorite track successions. Below is a synopsis of each, and why I believe they make up the bulk of one of the greatest piano rock records ever. </div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="24"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;" wfd-id="101"><br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="23"><b>1. Big Shot</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="22"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="21">Not much needs to be said about this one. 'Big Shot' is one of Billy's biggest hits that is probably still played on most oldies stations today. It's uptempo opening and large rhythms comprise a well served and over-the-top introduction to an album that would knock the socks of many listeners of the day. Billy also sings in a dramatic New Wave Punk style that was emblematic of the era.</div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="21"><br /></div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bEea624OBzM" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"></blockquote></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="18"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="18"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="18"><b>2. Honesty</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="17"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="16">A palate cleanser, 'Honesty' is a heartfelt ballad that I just so happen to believe is Joel's best composition ever. No pun intended, but if any set of lyrics speak absolute truth to its underlying message, 'Honesty' is it. For those of us fortunate to find ourselves in long term marriages or relationships, the song's message serves as convincing advice that many of us can attest to. For a true romantic partnership to work, it requires vulnerability, sincerity, and compassion; lust and histrionics may work in the short term, but they are never sustainable.</div><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="15"><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="14">I can always find someone</span></span></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="13">To say they sympathize</span></span></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="12">If I wear my heart out on my sleeve</span></span></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="11">But I don't want some pretty face</span></span></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="10">To tell me pretty lies</span></span></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="8"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="9">All I want is someone to believe</span> </span></div></blockquote></blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SuFScoO4tb0" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>3. My Life</b> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is another track that needs no introduction. Just like 'Big Shot,' it is another standard of the Great American Oldies Songbook. The quintessential song of telling someone else to mind their own business, 'My Life' is politely rebellious; the lyrics may be telling the world to back off, but its underlying tune is a jaunty sing-along. Highly relatable, 'My Life' has likely hit a chord with many who want to pursue their own happiness without the interference of judgmental authority figures and frenemies. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">(<i>Note: the video below features the beginning of the fifth track, 'Stiletto,' in its intro</i>). </p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h3JFEfdK_Ls" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>4. Zanzibar</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">At this point in <i>52nd Street</i>, things begin to get interesting. 'Zanzibar' is a gritty ode to masculinity; a lament of a bachelor in the New York City metroplex who just so happens to likes booze, baseball, and women. (Shocking, right?) Its structure is equal parts theater production and equal parts speakeasy jazz. This is probably one of Billy's most sophisticated creations, with multiple change-ups in a short five minute timeframe. The choral hook, however, is what makes 'Zanzibar' a diamond in the rough.</p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="6"><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="7">I've got the old man's car</span></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="4"><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="5">I've got a jazz guitar</span></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="2"><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="3">I've got a tab at Zanzibar</span></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;" wfd-id="0"><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;" wfd-id="1">Tonight that's where I'll be, I'll be</span></div></blockquote></blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yget4xVAulE" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>5. Stiletto</b> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">With the fifth track, Billy rewards the listeners who have loyally listened thus far with jazzy syncopation and staccato, the nucleus of much of his catalog. Not to worry, though, the track is still fundamentally pop in its structure. While its introduction may resemble the lovechild of '<a href="https://www.allmusic.com/song/careless-whisper-mt0001470952" target="_blank">Careless Whisper</a>' meets <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Side_Story" target="_blank">West Side Story</a>, the half-minute mark gives way to the raucous storytelling Billy Joel has made millions on. Just a man and his piano, 'Stiletto' is the essence of Billy Joel, and certainly the antecedent to later-comers like <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/ben-folds-mn0000162197/biography" target="_blank">Ben Folds</a>. </p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lmUrJ_el-SM" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10378033.post-34258004778693394812021-04-12T13:32:00.001-05:002021-04-13T08:08:10.994-05:00JUNGLE - 'Keep Moving'<p><a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/jungle-mn0003229446/biography">JUNGLE</a> continues to release some of my favorite music videos. </p><p>The London-based group's laid-back falsetto funk first caught on with 2014's hit, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BcsfftwLUf0">"Busy Earnin'"</a>.</p><p>Translating their electronic dance sounds into a seven-piece live band also gained the band considerable acclaim and a following on the concert circuit. But for me, it's their straightforward but original choreographed videos that keep me coming back. Seriously, I could just go to the group's YouTube channel now and get stuck watching their videos all afternoon.</p><p>And no exception is JUNGLE's latest single, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-lWzQd_xeQ">"Keep Moving"</a>. The song itself isn't a departure from the sound that the group's fans have come to expect, mixing string arrangements, relaxed grooves and a funky bassline into a mix that's equally as suitable for the dancefloor as it is for chilling out afterwards.</p><p>The video enters with a single woman and an abandoned prison, building up to a full on choreographed group dance. The plot needn't go any deeper from there, as the joy is in the movement and atmosphere itself. So, take a 5:21 break from your day and watch the latest from JUNGLE below:</p><p>JUNGLE's forthcoming album, Loving In Stereo, is set for release in August 2021. You can preorder it today, at <a href="http://junglejunglejungle.com">junglejunglejungle.com</a></p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7-lWzQd_xeQ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Taehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06776891220703219800noreply@blogger.com0