Hang Down Your Head

Song: Hang Down Your Head
Artist: Tom Waits
Album: Rain Dog






My introduction to Tom Waits came through his work as an actor in such films as “Short Cuts,” “Down By Law,” & “Bram Stokers Dracula.” I knew that he was also a singer but didn’t quite understand or know the vastness of his career. Because of some ridiculous sale through a CD by Mail club I was in I got 1992’s “Bone Machine” for like $2, and it quickly became one of my favorite records. “Bone Machine” won Waits a Grammy for “Best Alternative Album” and it truly is an “alternative album.” It’s ugly, free-wheeling, and definitely not for everyone’s tastes. As a matter of fact, a good friend of mine referred to Tom as “that singer you like with throat cancer.” Nice.

Waits started his career in the early 70’s releasing the brilliant debut “Closing Time” in 1973. “Closing Time” featured the beautiful ballad “Ol’55” which the Eagles covered and made a moderate hit. He quickly released album after album through the 70’s and built a very strong cult following for his off-kilter singing, poetic lyrics, and most likely for just being like nobody else out there. He took a creative turn with 1983’s “Swordfishtrombone” an absolute mess of an album in the best ways possible. This continued with my favorite, 1985’s “Raindogs.” This is an album filled with one great song after another including the title track, “Time,” “Jockey Full of Bourbon,” and “Downtown Train,” which Rod Stewart covered and became one of his bigger hits of the 80’s. “Hang Down Your Head” is my absolute favorite Tom Waits song, fragile and beautiful, it is also the one song on the album co-written by his long time wife and frequent collaborator, Kathleen Brennan. Brennan has gone on to produce many of his subsequent albums.

I can’t recommend “Rain Dogs” enough, and if you can get past the gruff vocals and sporadic arrangements, you will find much to love. He’s never been as hailed as say a Bob Dylan, but I have a feeling that in time he will get his complete due of respect from the public once his music is properly discovered. Late last year Tom released the three disc “Orphans: Brawlers, Bawlers, & Bastards” which was a career spanning collection of unreleased material. Not typical of these types of collections as they are usually meant for hard-core fans, “Orphans” garnered him some of the best reviews of his career with come critics claming it stands with the best of his entire catalog. I haven’t had a chance to hear it yet, but it is certainly on my list.

Enjoy.

Here is the video for Tom’s version of Downtown Train:

Is it Like Today?

Song: Is it Like Today?
Artist: World Party
Album: Bang!






I know very little about World Party beyond that lead (and main) member Karl Wallinger used to be in 80’s rock band The Waterboys. He left in 1985 to form World Party and got to see their first single “Ship of Fools” from the debut album “Private Revolution” become a top forty hit. But it was debut single “Is It Like Today?” from 1993’s “Bang!” that got me interested in the band. I believe I saw the video on MTV’s lone Alternative show “Alternative Nation” and immediately thought it was one of the most beautiful songs I’d ever heard.

The rest of the album doesn’t really hold a candle to that particular song but is worth a listen or two. I have not heard any follow up albums, but Robbie Williams had a pretty sizable hit (In the rest of the world of course) with a cover of Wallinger’s “She’s The One” which can be found on 1997’s “Egyptology.”

This is one of my favorite songs, I think you’ll really like it. It reminds me of Crowded House’s “Don’t Dream it’s Over,” yet doesn’t really sound like it… I don’t know why I make that connection actually.

Enjoy.

The video for Is It Like Today?


Ship of Fools

Alive

Song: Alive
Artist: VHS or Beta
Album: Night on Fire








I first heard of VHS or Beta when they happened to be opening for the Scissor Sisters back in 2005. I immediately liked their dance-rock vibe and had the last song they played, the title track to their latest record “Night on Fire,” in my head long after they, and the Scissor Sisters played. Based on this performance I got some of their singles, including “Night on Fire” and immediately was in love. I bought the album and while I didn’t think it was a home run, thought it had at least five killer songs on it, which is more than good for fleeting bands in the disco-rock genre.

Upon further investigation I found that the band was heavily influenced by Daft Punk and that their debut album, 2002’s “Le Funk” was basically a Daft Punk homage, comprised entirely of instrumentals. This put the instrumentals on their vastly superior sophomore album, 2004’s “Night on Fire” in a different context. It seems they were growing, and it makes me very excited to hear new material. (Their official website simply says they are recording new demos “soon.”)

Of all the songs on the latest record the one I really connected with most was “Alive” which surprisingly, was never made a single. This song is very poetic and while I don’t quite understand everything that is being said here, at times I feel it’s just about healing, and the fact that there is so much in life to drives us apart… yet we are helped along by “angels shooting stars” and that’s what makes us “alive.”

It’s a great song, and one that I think can really connect with people. It belongs in the end credits of a great movie about what makes us human. Or at least one that I have running in my head…

This one will take you through the weekend, to “feel alive in the move from Sundays.”

Enjoy.

Here’s the video (which isn't very good) for the ‘should have been massive’ first single and title track:

By Your Side

Song: By Your Side
Artist: Sade
Album: Lovers Rock






When I was younger the modern jazz of Sade was a bit too… well, boring for me. Sure “Smooth Operator” was okay, but her sexy music was lost on me as a kid. I suppose for good reason. I caught up, in a big way, with the release of Sade’s last album, 2000’s “Lovers Rock.” For this record she incorporated more modern electronic flourishes to her music and I fell hard. This is one of the sexiest records I own and is great from start to finish and both as mood music and if you listen to each song separately.

Sade was born in a tiny village miles from Lagos, the capital of Nigeria. Her father was African and mother was English. Sade moved with her mother to London where she grew up listening to classic soul records and formed her musical influences. “Smooth Operator” was one of the first songs she wrote, and has consistently had at least one solid hit off each album she’s released. Most notably, “The Sweetest Taboo” from 1985’s “Promise” and “No Ordinary Love” from 1992’s “Love Deluxe.”

I don’t have any of these older albums so can’t speak on them, but I without a doubt think “Lovers Rock’ is essential for any modern music fan. While the entire album is filled with great songs, the touchstone still remains the first track, “By Your Side.” Ben Watt of Everything But The Girl” did an amazing piano based dance mix of the song that I highly recommend. My cousin used the original as the song for her wedding and I am hard pressed to think of a more perfect song or moment. I cried like a baby.

Thank you Sade!

Enjoy.

The Drowners

Song: The Drowners
Artist: Suede
Album: Suede






Suede formed in England in 1989 and really spearheaded the Britpop revolution of the 90’s. Through a stroke of luck and pure ambition, the band was making waves in the British music press before they had a record deal, and were being called “The Best New Band in Britain.” Their self-titled debut album was an instant hit and they were often called “The new Smiths.” (Incidentally, their name comes from the Morrissey song “Suedehead.”)

Marked by outrageous statements and poly-sexuality, Suede were the toast of Britain until in-fighting mixed up the bands line up and while sophomore album “Dog Man Star” sold as much as their debut, the British press labeled them “over.” Soon, poppier and less darkly sexual Britpop bands like Oasis and Blur took the scene from them.

They had a surprise resurgence in 1996 with the release of their third album (minus founding lead guitarist Bernard Butler) and scored five top ten singles in the UK. Unfortunately, the album wasn’t released in the U.S. until a year later due to some legal struggle between an obscure American lounge singer who also performed under the name Suede. They officially had to change their name to “London Suede” for all future releases.

I personally only have the amazing self titled debut, containing the top rate singles “The Downers,” “Metal Mickey,” and “Animal Nitrate” and the double disc b-sides collection “Sci-Fi Lullabies.” While it is a little hit or miss (what b-sides, and for that matter double disc album isn’t?) it really contained some killer songs, so I feel like I need to play a little catch up with their other full length albums. Their last album came out in 2002, no word as to what they are up to now.

Enjoy.

The video for Metal Mickey:


The video for The Drowners:

Portia

Song: Portia
Artist: Throwing Muses
Album: Throwing Muses









I first heard of the Throwing Muses through my love of Belly, Tanya Donnelly’s old band form the 90’s. Tanya was in Throwing Muses briefly, and lead Muse Kristen Hersh is her step-sister. They rose out of the Boston alt-rock scene in Boston in the early 80’s and melded post-punk guitar riffs with obtuse poetry-like lyrics and Kristen’s distinctive wail. They have broken up and reunited a few times and Kristen has had a pretty prolific solo career. In fact, I am unable to keep up with it.

My favorite two records are their two least liked critically, 1992’s “Red Heaven” (the first album I bought of theirs) and 1996’s “Limbo.” “The Real Ramona” is the fan favorite and one of their more pop records. I am also a big fan of “University” which was released in 1995 and was a comeback album after disbanding. Their latest, (and last) record was the self titled album from 2003 which saw them embrace grunge (a bit late no?) and remains their heaviest set to date. I didn’t love this record, but found certain songs I did, including “Portia.”

Hard to say where to start with the Muses as their music is all over the place. Kristin is no doubt a poet and I also highly recommend her debut solo album, the all acoustic “Hips & Makers.” Just saw that she has released yet ANOTHER solo record this year… she is absolutely too prolific for me.

Enjoy.

We Float

Song: We Float
Artist: PJ Harvey
Album: Stories From the City, Stories From the Sea








PJ Harvey’s “Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea” is one of those if you don’t have it… rush out and get it now albums. In a career that started in the early 90’s it is her hands down crowning achievement, in a career of consistently great albums. I say that, yet I was HUGELY disappointed with her last record, 2004’s “Uh Huh Her.” I recommend her early work but with “Stories,” all the pieces came together. It’s probably the most “pop” thing she’s done, or at least the most polished… but that is not what makes it great. It’s simply a collection of unbelievable songs, from start to finish.

There were several great singles, but I choose “We Float,” the album closer because it is just bewitching to me. The album starts off with the scary “Big Exit,” where PJ sings “give me a gun!” yet ends with this bittersweet send off. “We float… take life as it comes.” Listen carefully. This is the song you need to listen to when life feels like it is about to swallow you like the ocean.

Enjoy.

Videos from singles off the album:

Good Fortune


A Place Called Home


And from her second record, the "Is she crazy?" Man-Sized video

Writing to Reach You

Song: Writing to Reach You
Artist: Travis
Album: The Man Who







Back in the Summer of 2004 I was vacationing in Provincetown, MA and was with some friends getting lunch at a place right on the water. As we sat there waiting for our food a song came on over the mediocre sound system and it immediately sounded familiar. After listening for a while I thought to myself “Oh… someone is covering Travis, who is it?” I had been a Travis fan for a while and while I was a tad disappointed with their latest album, thought they deserved more exposure in this country… and thought this other artist covering them might raise their profile a bit.

Well, that song I heard was in fact a pretty big hit, but it wasn’t a cover… it turned out to be an original by that band… Keane’s “Somewhere Only We Know.” Once I got a hold of the song I was shocked by just how much they sounded like Travis, and shocked again to hear how big they were getting in their native England. Now, arguably, Travis was a bit of a copy-cat band as they sounded a lot like Oasis’ more mellow hits, but they wrote great songs, had two albums I consider essential listening, and were just all around harmlessly likable.

The band started out a bit more rocky, hailing from Glasgow, Scotland while at University, and moving to London when they became more serious about being a band. They released an EP and then their very well received debut album “Good Feeling.” But it wasn’t until the release of “The Man Who” in 1999 that the band blew up in Europe, spawned several hit singles, and toped many critic’s year-end best-of lists. Their third album, “The Invisible Band” continued in the same mellow breezy vein of “The Man Who,” and was arguably just as good. As mentioned, their last LP, 2003’s “12 Memories” was a bit of a disappointment in comparison to the last two records. It has some nice moments, but is inconsistent.

Unfortunately, it seems Keane came in right at the right time and took Travis’ crown in 2004 seeing their debut “Hopes and Fears,” becoming the second best selling album of the year. (Just behind the Scissor Sisters debut.) They were able to find moderate success here in the states and released a well received follow up last year. While Keane’s lead singer Tom Chaplin may have found himself in rehab late last year, it seemed they did the right thing and returned with a bolder sound on their sophomore record “Under the Iron Sea.” Travis did not, continuing to make the sort of dreamy mid-tempo Brit-rock that possibly just got a bit old.

In my opinion, Travis is the better band and wrote better records that Keane does. I like them alright, and really did like last years lead single “Is It Any Wonder?” (even thought it was a bit of a U2 knock off) and maybe that is the problem. Keane have taken other bands sound and in a way re-wrote them for their own purposes. But who’s having the last laugh?

Instead of highlighting one of their newer songs, I chose the first track off of “The Man Who” which sort of holds my basis for the Keane comparison. It’s a great song from a great album. If you dig it, and know nothing else of Travis, it might be best to pick up their best of “Singles” collection which came out in 2004. It’s a good career retrospective and includes all their hits. Sure you’ll miss some of the important album tracks found on their two best records, but for a passing fan, it’s a great way to get into them. I hope they return and blow Keane away! ;)

Enjoy.

Irreplaceable

Song: Irreplaceable
Artist: Beyonce
Album: B-Day





Third time seems to be a charm for Beyonce who is finding the THIRD single from her sophomore solo album “B-Day” to be the first out and out hit.

It’s been infiltrating the airwaves for a while now but I only recently became obsessed with this song. This is possibly because of “Dreamgirls,” which I recently saw, as I’ve been thinking about Beyonce a lot. The woman, the music, the actress, the commodity, etc. All of this has lead me to think… who is the real Beyonce?

As you all probably know, Beyonce was breed to be a superstar. Coached by her father with a gaggle of other girls, Beyonce and crew dubbed Destiny’s Child finally hit the big-big time with their second album, “The Writings on the Wall” with the major hits “Bills, Bills, Bills,” “Bug-A-Boo,” “Jumpin, Jumpin,” and of course their signature, “Say My Name.” They loss two members, gained one, released another album “Survivor” with another slew of top ten urban-pop hits, and all this time, Beyonce was being groomed for super-mega stardom. The group released one more limp record and Beyonce hit the ceiling with her first solo record “Dangerously in Love.” “Crazy in Love” will no doubt go down as one of the best pop songs of our age, she hooked up with Jay-Z and cemented her street cred, and took small roles in big movies to get her feet wet for her big coming out.

So the end of 2006 and the beginning of 2007 was supposed to be the moment where Beyonce went from successful singer to multi-platform brand. Her highly anticipated second record was coming out as well as a “starring” performance in the Broadway-to-film adaptation of “Dreamgirls” where she was to play the Diana Ross-ish member of a 60’s girl-group that was pushed to lead the group and become the real star while the chubby but better singer (Jennifer Hudson) was pushed out of the spotlight. Since Destiny’s Child sort of had the same history, and Beyonce was in fact BEYONCE, this was truly going to be her moment.

But things didn’t go to plan exactly.

First single from “B-Day” “Déjà vu” made little dent at radio despite the expectation that it was going to be a surefire hit. It had Jay-Z, it had the horn sample a-la “Crazy in Love,” and she wore less clothes than ever in the video. The problem was… it was TOO “Crazy in Love” and despite really calling itself out by being named “Déjà vu” literally, audiences didn’t bite. Possibly because half didn’t know what “Déjà vu” actually meant. Then, almost too quickly, the second single, “Ring the Alarm” came out accompanied with a video that made Beyonce, for the first time, looked like… well crazy. She was dressed like Sharon Stone in “Basic Instinct,” her hair was all over the place, and in her eyes it was possible she was on the verge of jumping through the camera and eating the watcher. Not even a rumor that the song was directed at Little-Beyonce Rihanna for alledgedly sleeping with Jay-Z couldn’t make the song into a hit. (I on the other hand rather liked it and liked the Beyonce-as-crazy-ho thing.)

Then came the media blitz that was “Dreamgirls.” And early interview with Rolling Stone painted the film as the launch pad for the world domination of this lady, there was Oscar talk, but when people actually got to see the film all they could talk about was Jennifer Hudson, an American Idol cast-off that didn’t have a single song on the radio. Even when the Golden Globe nominations were announced and Beyonce was put as Best Actress and Jennifer as Best-Supporting, people did not embrace it, calling it politics that lead to her character’s raised status when many believed it to be Jennifer’s show as her character is the heart of the film.

And then, just as “Dreamgirls” is about to be released wide, “Irreplaceable,” “B-Day’s” third single actually becomes a hit and Beyonce is once again on top… of at least something. The song is pretty great and plays into some of the same things that made some of Destiny’s Child songs hits… the woman done wrong by a man who is about to get hers. Say my name indeed. “Irreplaceable” is an infectious, “get your ass out of my house” mid-tempo jam that shows Beyonce with teeth, but not freak-out “Ring the Alarm” crazy-bitchness. While thematically it’s a bit been there done that, the song itself is crazy catchy and actually MEANS something. Between album hit “Check On It” was sublime in it’s hooks despite being vaguely about well… nothing. “Irreplaceable” is a home run on all bases.

But who is Beyonce? I suppose that these are personas that she is trying on in these songs, which many artists from Bowie to Madonna, to Diana Ross herself have taken on but in the end I think we KNEW who those people are, who is Beyonce?!?!

“Dreamgirls” is another problem because while she is not bad by any means she is just a blank slate. The biggest problem is that she is given absolutely nothing to do. I think it’s unfair to compare her performance with Hudson’s as Jennifer gets all the great lines and songs as Effie. Beyonce has very little to do but look just like Diana Ross. She looks absolutely stunning, the camera loves her, but she never connects with the character. And I refuse to jump on the Jennifer Hudson gush-train. The girl can sing, she knows how to pop her hip, swing her head, and give the attitude but that’s not acting. And some of her lines do drop dead. But then again, these girls aren’t actors. (On a side note, the movie is worth seeing for Eddie Murphy alone as he gives one of the best performances in his career making great strides with a secondary character.)

The Golden Globes, the Oscars, and final box office will cement what Beyonce will take out of this whole project… but she should sleep better, despite the up and down drama of these projects that her backlash just proves that she HAS in fact made it. Like Madonna, the public decided for a change that she had gotten a little too big and needed to be cut down a bit. A sure sign of super-stardom! But there is always another record or another film to possibly re-imagine herself and make it happen once again.

“To the left to the left…”

Enjoy

The video:

Love is Stronger Than Death

Song: Love is Stronger Than Death
Artist: The The
Album: Dusk







The The formed back in 1979 and basically consist of one consistent member, lead Matt Johnson. Born and raised in London, Johnson formed his first band at fifteen and was introduced to a variety of styles in the nightclubs and dance venues owned by his uncle. The The began as a dance outfit with heavy use of synthesizers and drum loops. “Dusk” was my first introduction to the band; saw the video for first single “Dogs of Lust” on “120 Minutes” along with an interview by Johnson who was strange but very intriguing. A local radio station I loved was playing “Dogs” quite a bit and was raving about the record so I bought it and fell in love.

“Dusk” is a poetic rock record about love, death, and the basics of the human condition. Johnson’s vocals are dark, almost Goth in a way, something you respond to or feel little for. After falling for “Dusk” (which is great from start to finish) I went back and got the more dance oriented “Infected” which included the fun title track as well as a song with Neneh Cherry. I didn’t connect with it as much and didn’t pursue any future or past releases from the band, though 1989’s “Mind Bomb” and the debut; “Soul Mining” are well regarded among rock critics.

I hadn’t dug the CD out in a while, having imported the key tracks onto my iPod ages ago, and was floored to find out that none other than The Smiths’ Johnny Marr had joined the band for this record and has his distinct guitar work on almost every track. Listening to “Dogs of Lust” again I can’t believe I didn’t realize this before as it echoes “How Soon is Now” quite a bit. Marr did not return on future albums, but his mark is certainly a key ingredient to “Dusk’s” success.

In 2004 singer Angela McCluskey released her hit-or-miss album “the Things We Do” which featured an excellent, if too faithful, cover of “Love is Stronger Than Death.” This is a song that is so amazing I fully feel it deserves to be a classic and yet from my knowledge, it was never released as a single. I can see torch singers or really vocalists of all kinds covering this song with great effect. Wouldn’t it be something to hear a song like this performed on American Idol? I think it is not out of the realm of possibility. This is a great song and “Dusk” is a lost treasure form the 90’s.

Enjoy.

The “hot” video for “Dogs of Lust”:

Beef Jerky

Song: Beef Jerky
Artist: Cibo Matto
Album: Viva! La Woman

A few months ago I posted about the great Richard Thompson whom I discovered while falling in love with the production of Mitchell Froom whom had at the time worked with (and later married and had a child) with Suzanne Vega. Another new band that was getting buzz at the time was Cibo Matto and their debut album “Viva! La Woman,” also produced by Mr. Froom.

Formed in New York in 2004, Cibo Matto was comprised of vocalist Miho Hatori and keyboardist/sampler Yuka Honda. Both came independently from Japan getting different gigs in other bands before forming Leitoh Lychee. After that band disbanded, they formed Cibo Matto (Italian for “food madness”) and recorded “Viva! La Woman” in 1996. The album was about their love of food or food as metaphor. It’s fun, funky, brilliant, and was one of my absolute favorite records in college. They had alternative rock hits with “Know Your Chicken” and “Sugar Water” following up the album with the “Super Relax EP” which included remixes, and early version of “Spoon,” and a cover of the Rolling Stones “Sing This All Together.”

In 1999 they released the follow up, “Stereotype A” which included new full-time members Sean Lennon, Duma Love, and Timo Ellis. The album is not without its highlights but it is a mess compared to their debut. They wisely chose not to repeat the food analogies for the sophomore album, but forgot to incorporate the memorable songs. Again it is not a bad album, just doesn’t come close to the highs and brilliance of “La Woman.”

Cibo Matto broke up shortly afterward. Miho has recently released a solo album here which I have not heard, but also contributed vocals to the first Gorillaz record, as well as the Beastie Boys’ “Hello Nasty.”

It’s hard for me to pick a song to highlight as the album is so good. “Beef Jerky” has a great title, a great beat, and shows their off-the-wall musical palette rather well. To hear more from the album, here are two videos:

Enjoy!

“Know Your Chicken”



“Sugar Water”



This video is directed by Michel Gondry of “Eternal Sunshine” and “Science of Sleep” fame.

Spiritual High (State of Independence) Part II

Song: Spiritual High (State of Independence) Part II
Artist: Moodswings
Album: Moodfood







One of my absolute favorite things is discovering new music at the movies. Usually, a filmmaker will match a piece of music to an image they create that fits so perfectly, you think it was MADE for that scene. (And sometimes, it is.) You might think of Rocky climbing those steps to that film’s iconic score or Lloyd Dobler holding up the boom box while Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes” played through in “Say Anything.” Or sometimes you’ll just hear a song in a movie while a character is walking through a scene, or heard in the end credits that grabs you. This is the case with Moodswings “Spiritual High (State of Independence) Part II” which played over the end credits to Barbet Schroeder’s 1992 thriller “Single White Female.”

When the credits of the film came up and this song began to play I immediately had to know… who was this? I recognized lead Pretender Chrissie Hynde’s distinct vocals right away but the beat and mood of the song didn’t seem like anything that her band would have done. It turned out to be by a band called Moodswings, and I bought their album at the mall record store as soon as I exited the theater. Unfortunately, the entire album wasn’t all that great. They were sort of like Enigma and admittedly, this track sounds a bit dated already. (Dig that piano over early 90’s dance beat? So retro!) But I do love this song, and it turned into a mid-level alternative rock hit for the band who released a follow up, “Psychedelicatessen” in 1997 and then the double disc “Horizontal” in 2002. I haven’t heard either of these, as I didn’t really care for the rest of “Moodfood” but have since read some positive reviews, so they might be worth checking out. Lead Moodswing James Hood also worked with Hynde on the Pretenders hit “I’ll Stand By You” which, come to think of it… wasn’t that used in the dramatic head-shaving scene from “G.I. Jane?” (Poor Demi.)

In any event, “Spiritual High” is a great track, and actually split into three parts on the album, one of which samples Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I have a dream” speech. It’s a bit heavy handed in the end, but the intent is positive. But Part II belongs to the amazing Chrissie Hynde, one of the best female rock vocalists of all time.

Enjoy.

Fairytale in the Supermarket

Song: Fairytale in the Supermarket
Artist: The Raincoats
Album: The Raincoats

Back in college one of my good friends gave me as either a birthday present or Christmas gift the “SPIN Alternative Record Guide.” It was a pretty sizable book that listed all the notable “Alternative” bands of the past and present, listed their albums with a 1 – 10 rating, and also a write up about their career and cultural significance. Over the next three years or so this book became my bible, I devoured every page, and bought many of the albums they listed as significant and in some cases without hearing a note of music from these artists. Looking back at this, I find it a little silly… yet I must say with a few exceptions, I was rarely disappointed with the albums that they fell head over heels for.

The Raincoats were one of my favorite discoveries from this time. Formed in London in 1978, the Raincoats were an all female post punk act with a sound like no other. Their vocals were shrill and their use of a screaming violin even more so. Their self titled debut is one of my favorite records of all time and almost universally loathed by just about anyone I played it for. I can’t really call them an acquired taste… you either dig their out-of-left-field sound, or run for the hills claiming it’s not really music. I love them, and they were the perfect soundtrack to my college years studying feminist theory.

It is very important to note that we can all thank Kurt Cobain for the re-release of their three major albums. It has been noted that Kurt’s discomfort with fame was what lead to his suicide, which angers many, but The Raincoats career was completely resurrected simply because he mentioned them in the liner notes to “Incesticide.” Their albums were re-issued by his label Geffen, they toured with Nirvana, and soon were able to record and release another album, 1994’s “Looking in the Shadows.” I don’t know how comfortable I would be with that kind of power, Kurt obviously wasn’t.

“Fairytale in the Supermarket” opens their self titled debut and is a good indication of their sound. Odd, loud, screechy… it is like nothing that came before it. The entire record is very female centric, and Sleater Kinney, The Breeders, and countless female-fronted post punk bands no doubt hold a debt to their sound and pioneering all-female lineup. They certainly are not for everyone, but if you like the sound and attitude, I highly recommend their debut album. And it contains a monotone ironic cover of the Kinks “Lola!” How can you argue with that?

Enjoy.

Here is some footage of the band from a BBC documentary. This proves you can literally find ANYTHING on YouTube:

How Can You Be Sure

Song: How Can You Be Sure
Artist: Radiohead
Album: Music From the Gregg Araki Movie: Nowhere

We are expecting to hear new music from Radiohead this year and I am one of the many eagerly awaiting this. They are a bit of a love’em or hate’em band, but the people that do love them are pretty passionate about them.

I first saw Radiohead open for R.E.M. on their “Monster” tour and it was the first (and only) time that I was completely enthralled by a band that I knew very little about. (Well… I guess I knew “Creep.”) I immediately bought their second album “The Bends,” which they were supporting at the time. A modern classic of post-punk guitar pop, it was the record that helped them build the buzz and set the stage for their crowning achievement, “OK Computer” which, many will argue is the best record of the last twenty years or like… ever. (discuss)

They followed “Computer” with the supremely odd but beautiful “Kid A” and “Amnesiac.” “Kid A” is their “Dark Side of the Moon” and a recent listen reminded me just how good the thing is. It’s catchy, arty, and while totally strange, very accessible. It was also the start of the band not giving fans what they wanted… another “Bends.”

I highlight the excellent track “How Could You Be Sure” which was recorded during the “Bends” sessions and for some reason was not included on the album. It’s an amazing song that holds a place alongside their best material. It’s more straightforward Radiohead, yet Thom Yorke’s obtuse lyrics always seem to shake things up, no matter how pretty the melodies. The song was released on the soundtrack to the 1997 Gregg Araki film “Nowhere.” The movie is a bit all over the place, as is the soundtrack… but it has some great remixes and odds and ends by late-millennium alternative bands such as Hole, Elastica, Massive Attack, Chemical Brothers, and James.

While I am eager about hearing new music form the band, I am also a bit hesitant as I was so disappointed with their last record, “Hail to the Thief.” It was the first time I wasn’t totally blown away by a record of theirs and never listen to it. Furthering the damage, Yorke’s solo album “The Eraser,” which was released last year, didn’t really grab me as I wanted it to. It was weird (of course) but also a little boring, which is the worst thing you can say about a record in my opinion. Maybe my expectations are out of whack… but when a band is great, shouldn’t they always be great?

Enjoy.

Space Maker

Song: Space Maker
Artist: Air
Album: Pocket Symphony

Happy New Year!

While I had said to myself that I would shift my focus on so much new music and reach back to songs and artists that meant something to me way back when in the beginning of this new year, I got something new that I thought I should talk about.

On March 1^st, Air will release their new LP “Pocket Symphony.” I’ve been a huge fan of theirs since the 1998 debut breakthrough “Moon Safari,” and absolutely loved their last record “Talkie Walkie.” Upon several spins of “Symphony” I am sorry to say that it is rather boring. I enjoyed Jean-Benoît Dunckel’s (one half of the band) solo side project “Darkel” which came out last year more, though even that seemed a little limp to me. To be fair, Air’s music isn’t attention grabbing, but they make some of the best chill out music around, and while the songs are soothing, light, and downtempo, I would never call them boring. That said, this new record reminds me of their soundtrack for “The Virgin Suicides” in that the collection seems less composed of songs but more just an entire “vibe” that sweeps over the entire record.

I am still listening, but if you are interested in Air I would highly recommend you start with “Moon Safari” or “Talkie Walkie.”

Enjoy.

My Top Ten Records of 2006

1. The Ark – State of the Ark

The album that I listened to the most this year. A glam-rock masterpiece that would have sounded just as great in 1976 as it does in 2006. “One of Us is Gunna Die Young” is the type of anthem that should have been huge. Oh well. They're huge in their native Sweden, but it seems America isn't ready for a bi-sexual rock and roll savior.

At least not just yet.


2. Scissor Sisters – Ta-Dah

They avoided the sophomore slump and made their first proper album. Love is in the air on their minds as the Scissors dance, rock, roll, and wield a serious falsetto track for track on this superb second offering. “I Don’t Feel Like Dancing” should be the new “Love Shack” at weddings from now on, and in an alternate universe, it probably is.

Closing track "Everyobody Wants the Same Thing" is a proper summation of everything the Scissor Sisters are, and something we all need to live in 2007.

3. Jenny Lewis & The Watson Twins – Rabbit Fur Coat

I could never get into Jenny’s proper band, Rilo Kiley, but one listen to the gorgeous “Rabbit Fur Coat” and I was hooked. Lewis writes insightful alt-country tales of men and woman damaged by life but with the will to push on. Pretty, thought provoking, and also super catchy. Rilo who?





4. Morrissey – Ringleader of the Tormentors

Morrissey finds joy in sex! Maybe now people can stop asking if the Smiths are going to get back together and realize that Morrissey has been releasing killer Smiths records for years, under his own name. 2004’s “You Are the Quarry” was the return to form and “Ringleader” might be his best record yet. I could not stop listening to this since I got it. It has all the trademark wit you expect with Moz, but this time the guitars have serious muscle, no doubt thanks to veteran producer/legend Tony Visconti. If you didn’t like Morrissey before this won’t change your mind, but if you’re a fan, more ammunition to prove the latter their morons.

5. Yeah Yeah Yeah’s – Show Your Bones

“Show Your Bones” is exactly the record I wanted the Yeah Yeah Yeah’s to make after their full length debut “Fever to Tell.” Organic, emotional, and reigned in JUST enough, “Bones” is a tour-de-force of what rock music can and should be in the future. I think in ten years this will be considered a classic, and in twenty won’t sound a touch dated.




6. Goldfrapp – Supernature

This really came out in 2005, but not here in the states until this year. Goldfrapp simply made the best electro-dance record in years, writing good songs around their catchy blips and bleeps. “Number 1” is an absolute revelation and if “Oh La La” doesn’t bring you to your feet they don’t work properly.



7. Lily Allen – Alright, Still

My favorite pop record of the year. Young Lily’s voice and perspective are 100% London, and she bounces through reggae-lite super catchy tune after tune on the most consistently enjoyable record of the year. She somehow manages to ride the line of being too cute, bitchy, sexy, and cloying without ever dipping to far in either direction. Lyrically she’ll make you laugh, but her melodies will be bouncing through your head from days to come.



8. Junior Boys – So This is Goodbye

It was the Junior Boys that really brought sexy back this year to me. One of the hands down sexiest records about things ending ever, this electro wet dream is the perfect record for late-late at night or early-early in the morning. It’s not a singles record, more a serious mood piece. That’s not to say the songs aren’t great though.


9. The Killers – Sam’s Town

It’s easy to make fun of and write off The Killers. Singer Brandon Flowers wears his ambitions on his sleeve and for whatever reason, we just can’t stand when someone is trying to do something great, and lets us know about it. But because of all the hype, first listens to “Sam’s Town” were done with a heavy ear. Was it “the best record of the last twenty years” as he said? It’s didn’t really blow me away… how dare he say something like that?! That was until I found myself listening to it over and over again, and digging not only the hook on top of hook powerhouse, but lyrically… it’s rather beautiful. Maybe a little over-serious, but I dig it anyhow.


10. Dixie Chicks – Taking the Long Way

Controversial country hasn’t been around in ages and thank you Dixie Chicks for bringing it back. Their best album to date is a mostly quiet affair and while publicly they are all spitfire and public uproar, the songs tell a tale of woman confused by the world and where they are in it. Catchy, beautiful, strong… this is the new Dixie Chicks. They may have lost a couple fans, but I think they gained a few... and became important songwriters in the process.


2006

As I compiled this list I realized it was not possible to simply call it the “Best of 2006.” I simply have not heard everything this year (can anyone really?) and like any kind of art… things fall to personal taste. While I consider myself a pretty open-minded guy when it comes to music, will give just about anything a listen… there are certain types of music I do not gravitate to, or even listen to. Country is a big genre that I pay little attention to, but it doesn’t mean that I don’t like SOME of it… as you can see I really loved the Dixie Chicks record, and would say that Jenny Lewis had the country record of the year, though she is not considered country at all.

So as the year comes to a close and I feel the need to put some finality on the music that effected ME this year it’s really something I’ve been sharing with you all along via this blog. Sure, it’s obvious that I tend to post and write about stuff that I really like, so maybe, despite my open mind, this blog is a little one-note. But if you are a reader, consistently… it’s because your tastes line up with mine a little, or you’re a friend and just being nice. ;)

As we look to 2007 I hope to discover more great music, pass it on, and brighten our lives a little… if possible. I really welcome your comments and suggestions. I was introduced to some great stuff that people sent me or just mentioned to me, and that’s what this is all about… because with this new information age it’s WE who CAST MUSIC. We can share much easier now, and while this troubles the labels, it spreads music to the people it’s for… all of us.

Here is to a Happy New Year, I’ll see you in 2007!

Enjoy.

Listen Up!

Song: Listen Up!
Artist: The Gossip
Album: Standing in the Way of Control







Olympia, Washington’s (by way of Searcy, AR) The Gossip are a dance-rock act that combine bluesy guitar riffs with persistent drum patterns melded together with lead singer Beth Ditto absolutely amazing voice. This girl can sing, she can wail actually… and has been called the best singer in rock music today by some.

I fist heard about the Gossip a couple years ago when I heard their song “Fire Sign” on a compilation. I liked it, but really dig their new dancier direction on “Standing in the Way of Control.” The title track was the first single and Le Tigre did an amazing remix that I actually liked a touch more than the original. “Listen Up!” is a slow-building call to arms about “people you just can’t trust.” While it’s a little simplistic, Ditto’s voice commands attention, and you are taken away with the song.

I recommend this entire record if you dig this track. It’s very consistent and great for a Friday night.

Enjoy.


Here is the video for "Listen Up!":

Black Sweat

Song: Black Sweat
Artist: Prince
Album: 3121

Best of 2006

Here is a song that should have been bigger than it was. Prince released yet another album this year entitled “3121” to a basic shrug from the public. Due to a loop hole in the rules of record sales, Prince was able to “sell” over 2 million copies of his previous disc “Musicology” by including it with a ticket to his latest sold-out tour. So basically, despite having no major hits from the album, one was bought with ever ticket to his show making it top the charts. Brilliant! “3121,” in comparison has sold just over 500,000 copies, which still is nothing to scoff at… but then again, he’s Prince.

I have been a Prince fan for some time and while I have not gotten all of his music (there is just too much) I have found much pleasure not only in his hits, but albums as a whole. I haven’t really loved his recent output, but respect it and love that he keeps making music. He is a true artist and amazing entertainer. Despite my semi-fandom, his concert was one of my favorite of all time. He is a man that walks on stage and you immediately lock your eyes to him. He commands attention.

While I didn’t love all of “3121,” I did like it more than “Musicology,” which was billed as a return to form. “Black Sweat” was at the top of the heap though and really should have been bigger here. It mixes classic Prince with a new hip-hop oriented sensibility. The minimalist beats sound like The Neptunes produced it, and I can’t help to think that if this came from a younger “hipper” R & B performer it would have been the hit it deserved to be.

At this point, Prince has carved a very important slice of rock & roll history for himself and while his reign doesn’t seem that far gone, he is an elder statesmen of pop. He continues to push himself forward writing music endlessly and is probably completely comfortable with his group of loyal fans and playing when he wants to. I can not imagine, based on how prolific he seems to be, what is in his archives. He could be releasing records for years to come no doubt.

Enjoy.

The slick video for "Black Sweat":

London Bridge

Song: London Bridge
Artist: Fergie
Album: The Dutchess




"Best" of 2006

This song was everywhere. I felt like “London Bridge” was stalking me at one point.

Fergie-ferg’s “London Bridge” is the little sister (or copycat) of Gwen’s “Hollaback Girl.” It has the same clap-clap rhythm, and an “I AM SHOUTIING AT YOU”-style vocal delivery. But what is it about? I’ve already seen this debated on VH1’s Best Week Ever… nobody seems to know. Probably because it is in fact non-sense. It’s a non-sense song, a lot of hits are. But what an intriguing line:

“How come everytime you come ‘round,
My London, London Bridge wanna go down?”

Vaguely sexual, part historic architecture lesson… “London Bridge” is by far the weirdest song to hit it big on the radio since… well probably “Hollaback Girl.” (I mean… what was THAT about anyhow?) But “Tubthumping” also comes to mind.

The line “I’m such a lady but I’m dancing like hoeeee” pretty much says it all, though I look back to what I’ve known since Fergie came onto the scene… and I ask myself, when has she ever been “a lady?” There’s the crystal meth phase, and that picture where it looks like she peed herself onstage, and then well, “My Humps” sort of says a lot about her character... I suppose we couldn’t really expect Laura Nyro from her.

Along with Jessica Simpson’s “Public Affair,” “London Bridge” is on my super-guilty pleasure list. I have found myself dancing around in my apartment to this song multiple times, and a look at my iTunes reveals… I’ve played it over forty times. Oh snap!

But does “London Bridge” signify an alarming new low in artistic expression? I don’t know, at least it uses a metaphor, as obtuse as it may be. “Rump Shaker” was more direct… and didn’t even bother to use actual words for the chorus. Is “London Bridge” stupid? Well… yes, and no. Trying to intellectually dissect this song is like looking for deeper meaning on “Jackass.” It’s probably not there. But this song (and Fergie herself) have been raked over the coals a lot this year and I’m not sure it deserves it. Maybe it doesn’t make any sense… but can you tell me what “Whooly Bully” is all about? And for all the hipsters that put TV on the Radio’s “Return to Cookie Mountain” on your top ten… do you know what they’re singing about? And what does that title have to do with anything? Sometimes, things don’t have a deeper meaning, and sometimes you can hide behind art for arts sake.

The brilliant thing about this song is that from the first time you hear it, you know it. It’s not complicated, and yet doesn’t seem to get old. The horns are crisp and command attention from the get-go. This is a song that I can imagine taking back in time thirty years, playing for a group of people and see them go B-A-N-A-N-A-S. It’s really nutty no? And while the theme of getting drunk and having sex is not super original, it is a big part of what our culture is today, and HAS been for many many years. Do we blame Fergie for this? We can’t.

This is a song that every once and a while I stop and really listen and think… “I can’t believe this exists. It’s absolutely one of the most ridiculous pieces of music I’ve heard in ages.” And isn’t that something in itself?

Enjoy. (Or at least try to.)

Easy Silence

Song: Easy Silence
Artist: Dixie Chicks
Album: Taking The Long Way






Best of 2006

What an interesting couple of years the Dixie Chicks have had. Their rise to fame was slow at first but immediately changed upon the hiring of Natalie Maines as lead singer in 1998. They soon rocketed up the country charts and continued their success with the release of 1999’s “Fly” which began to garner them even more mainstream attention as well as 2002’s “Home,” which made them international superstars. Their latest, “Taking the Long Way” was one of the few breakout hit albums of the year in a year when CD sales are down dramatically from years before.

I’ve never been a big country fan, specifically pop-country, but I have several friends that are and because of this have been introduced (or forced) to listen to the Chicks. I am thankful I have. From a country-outsiders point of view, I have been amazed at their growth as songwriters along their success. “Wide Open Spaces,” their first hit album is pretty much paint-by-numbers pop country. Pretty, twangy, with just enough sass to be labeled “spunky” but not obnoxious. I find it almost un-listenable. “Fly” is a step in the right direction, taking what worked for them in pop-country, yet their pro-feminist voices began to emerge in tracks like “Ready to Run,” “Goodbye Earl,” and “Sin Wagon.” It’s still a touch too “Yee-haw!” for me, but I began to realize these girls should be watched as they were doing things much more interesting than their contemporaries.

Things really hit er… home for me with the release of “Home” in 2002. With this record they ditched the pop sheen and went straight up bluegrass and happened to have their best batch of songs yet. True, they got some killer help by the likes of Patty Griffin & Radney Foster, but great songs like “White Trash Wedding” and “Tortured, Tangled Hearts” are all theirs. The only misstep, in my opinion, is their cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide.” It’s one of my favorite songs, and at the time I argued that they didn’t understand it (which is obnoxious in retrospect, I know) but I felt their singing, especially paired with the image of them singing it as in the video, just didn’t hold the emotional weight that is in the song. Smashing Pumpkins got it right, there is real hurt there… I just didn’t hear it in the Chicks version.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock you know that while on the European “Home” tour, Natalie made the off-hand comment that they were ashamed to be from Texas as it was the home state of president George W. Bush. Because of this, the Dixie Chicks found themselves public enemy #1 with a lot of country fans, who are mostly comprised of Republicans. The entire debacle was documented in the celebrated “Shut Up and Sing” by filmmaker Barbara Kopple & Cecilia Peck. While the incident did not crush their careers, it has dented their tour and CD sales by a certain margin for sure. It did not effect their creative powers any however, as “Taking the Long Way” is their best most assured release to date, and one of the best albums of 2006.

The Trailer for "Shut Up and Sing":


The Dixie Chicks wisely choose producer extraordinaire, Rick Rubin for the album and he helped them mold their best songs and biggest statement to date. They did not shy away from speaking on the incident, with first single “Not Ready to Make Nice,” and stuck to the more classic country sound of “Home.” Oddly enough with the Dixie Chicks I tend to like their quiet ballads more… and I HATE ballads. But songs such as “Easy Silence” and “Everybody Knows” showcase their deft ability to slow down and let true emotions come across. Their stunners, as are the more upbeat songs such as “I Like It” and the stellar opener “The Long Way Around” which sums up who the chicks are and have always been… small town girls with big city dreams.

And maybe that’s why I love ‘em.

Enjoy.

The Greatest

Song: The Greatest
Artist: Cat Power
Album: The Greatest




Best of 2006

This week I am going through all the music I was able to hear this year, picking my favorites, and what I thought were the best albums of the year. There have been a few songs and artists I haven’t highlighted yet that I want to point out, and you can expect my top ten record of the year choices on Friday.

Falling just short of making my top ten is Cat Power’s “The Greatest,” her seventh album and my favorite from what I have heard of hers. Recorded in Memphis with a slew of legendary session musicians, “The Greatest” is a melancholy slice of southern soul filled with Cat Power’s (Chan Marshall) trademark diary lyrics and girly cooing vocals. This is no sad sack ride though, as may have been the case with some of her earlier work. It’s a very rich album that took me a few times to get into.

Many people are giving Bob Dylan’s “Modern Times” the top spot for album of the year yet I find “The Greatest,” which has a similar sound, to be much more enjoyable and interesting. The title track is a simple yet effective ballad about a would be prize fighter that reminds me of Brando’s Terry Malloy from “On The Waterfront.” The rest of the album is varied in tone, and a bit more upbeat.

With “The Greatest” Cat Power moved from indie darling to true contender.

Enjoy.

Harmony Korine, the writer of “Kids” and writer/director for the truly awful “Gummo” directed the funny, outrageous video for “Living Proof”:

When You Wasn't Famous

Song: When You Wasn't Famous
Artist: The Streets
Album: The Hardest Way To Make An Easy Living







After the groundbreaking sophomore album “A Grand Don’t Come For Free,” The Streets (AKA Mike Skinner) had much to top with the third LP, “The Hardest Way To Make an Easy Living.” Unfortunately, he fell pretty short. It is not awful by any means, and the first single (and best song on the record) “When You Wasn’t Famous” is one of his better songs with trademark wit and its sing-a-long, though odd, chorus. The theme of the record is clear, though the execution doesn’t quite gel. It could be the let down from high, high hopes… but I wanted more.

While the music world went nutso when The Streets debut album, “Original Pirate Material” debuted in 2002, I found it to be rather annoying, immediately dated, and filled with non-songs… no melodies whatsoever. This is what made “A Grand Don’t Come For Free” such a surprise for me. I absolutely dug his “man of the people” vibe, using his odd British flow to weave a story about loosing 1,000 pounds and the blokes, girls, and chips that made up part of the story. Lead single “You’re Fit But You Know It” sounded a little like Blur’s “Parklife” but had a distinct charm and difference to it, I played it non-stop. The remainder of the songs really worked best within the context of the story, which was SORELY needed in the ever changing era of downloadable singles. The other absolute standout was the heartbreaking (and heart-felt) “Dry Your Eyes” which was a smash in the UK. It’s a British hip-hop ballad that utilizes strings vs. dipping into rhythm and blues to convey the bubbling emotions.

Because the song was a hit, and no doubt because he was probably told over and over how off the hook great the song was, “A Grand” has the VERY Dry Your Eyes-like “Never Went to Church” which is good, but like Coldplay’s “Fix You,” a lesser version of a past hit.

“When You Wasn’t Famous” (one of my favorite songs of 2006) illustrates what is great and unique about the Streets, yet also points to what could be the problem with “The Hardest Way.” Part of the charm of Mike Skinner was his every-guy persona, with a very working class life but a simple charming wit about him. As art imitates life, Mike got rich and famous and therefore his late night fish and chips on the street faded as well. One of the reasons I find little to no connection with the majority of hip hop is that I don’t own twenty cars, drink Moet, or any of that other baller shit. What made the Streets different was the everyman charm… and “The Hardest Way” is an entire album of how that is gone.

I highly recommend the entirety of “A Grand Don’t Come For Free” as well as a track or two from the new record. It’s not exactly hip hop as you might know it, and I wouldn’t call it Grime either. (Though he is often lumped into that British hip-hop sub-set of rap.) It’s just something completely of its own.

Enjoy.

Here's the video for "Dry Your Eyes," a song you should know:

I Know I Know I Know

Song: I Know I Know I Know
Artist: Tegan and Sara
Album: So Jealous








One of my hands down favorite albums of late 2004 was Tegan and Sara’s “So Jealous.” A fun poppy mix of new wave synths and distinct harmonies with songs about love and more love. Tegan and Sara, twin lesbians from Calgary, got their start by scoring the highest ever score at Calgary’s “Garage Warz” music competition. They signed to Neil Young’s Vapro Records in 2000 and have since released three records. Their debut “This Business of Art” and the follow up, “If I Was You” were more folk-pop affairs that “So Jealous” which kicked in the guitars, drums, and sing-a-long quotient.

“So Jealous” reminded me of Linda Ronstadt’s 80’s pop record “Mad Love” with a touch of Joan Jett-lite attitude, but a tenderness is found lyrically. It is almost impossible to highlight just one song as they are all so good. From the hyper-catchiness of first single “Walking With the Ghost,” the rock-pop bounce of “I Bet it Stung” and “Speak Slow,” or the gentle heartbreak of down-tempo songs “Where Does the Good Go” and “I Can’t Take It.”

I really can’t recommend this album enough if you like their sound even a little bit. “I Know I Know I Know” has a fun moog keyboard break by The Rentals Matt Sharp (formerly of Weezer) and is a good representation of the complete sound of the record. I could kick myself for not seeing them when they toured, but I will just have to wait for a new record and new tour. Or, I could just go out and get their recently released DVD “It’s Not Fun, Don’t Do It.”

Enjoy.

Here is the moody video for “Walking With the Ghost”:



And the goofy-funny video for “Speak Slow”:



And a teaser for the album:

Land of a Thousand Words (Junkie XL Remix)

Song: Land of a Thousand Words (Junkie XL Remix)
Artist: Scissor Sisters
Album: Land of a Thousand Words






I’ve been a bit obsessed with the original version of this song for the last couple weeks and was pretty excited for the single, which was released last week. Unfortunately this was the only other track, a remix by Junkie XL who did amazing things with the Sister’s “Mary” as well as the remix for Elvis’ “A Little Less Conversation.” I am not blown away by this remix, and feel it could have been a bit better. It’s not necessarily beat heavy enough to be dancefloor-ready, and not loungy enough to be… well, loungy.

I was really hoping for a new song as a b-side, though they may have just put the best of those on the “Ta-Dah” bonus disc. (“Ambition,” which was on the “I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’” single was pretty boring.) I guess they can’t all be the best.

Enjoy.

And if you haven't seen it yet...

Doctor's Orders

Song: Doctor's Orders
Artist: Carol Douglas
Album: Doctor's Orders: The Best of Carol Douglas






It is impossible to still have a case of the Monday's after listening to this song. Carol, thank you for being you.

Enjoy

Though she did end up on the People's Court once with another "Disco Diva"

All My Friends

Song: All My Friends
Artist: LCD Soundsystem
Album: Sound of Silver






One of my favorite dance records of last year was LCD Soundsystem’s self-titled debut. The two disc set featured their first proper album as well as a second disc that collected their singles from years before. (Including the underground dancefloor classic “Losing My Edge.”) I was pretty bananas for the first disc and loved the singles “Daft Punk is Playing at My House” and “Tribulations.” The entire record jumped from style to style and was all consistently good. While the “style” for each song was a bit different, they continued to use some of their trademark sounds and beats (including their favorite, the cowbell) that they employ with their remixes that they do as DFA.

This year has seen the release of two volumes of remixes by the DFA with the likes of The Gorillaz, Hot Chip, Le Tigre, Goldfrapp, and Nine Inch Nails, as well as a non-stop forty-five minute track created for Nike specifically for runners. (Available on iTunes.) In their spare time this year (Um… okay) they also produced the follow up to the self titled debut, “Sound of Silver” which is scheduled to be released at the end of March next year. Due to our new rapid information society and technology being what it is, the album has been leaked… and I got a chance to listen to it.

I immediately liked this album, despite it feeling less dancy as the debut at first. Its textures and complexities are coming through with each further listen, and more specifically, how lyrically strong the record is. Lead James Murphy blends psychological tales of friendship and love with state-of-our-culture musings about America, city life, and how things are changing, possibly for the worse. It’s very tight and a complete conceptual work… I’d almost call it the first dance singer-songwriter album.

The songs do take their time to build and many reach and surpass the seven minute mark, which may be a determent to some. Though I am appreciating the stories being told here, and the time they are given to stir within the listener, making the payoffs bigger, and better.

“All My Friends” is smack in the middle, creating a seriously dramatic centerpiece that sets you up for the rest of the album. The open sounds like the beginning of “Baba O’Riley,” and uses a persistent piano vamp that builds and moves the song along while lyrically the song connects on a very emotional level. This is an amazing song that worries less about being important to the dancefloor but creating a mood and tone that grabs the listener pretty forcefully.

I have also been obsessed with the album closer “New York I Love You (But You’re Bringing Me Down)” as it really sums up perfectly the state of New York City right now, with the narrator torn with his love of the city and what it still means now, yet conflicted with the consistent corporate cleansing that has plagued the city over the last decade. It’s a straight forward piano ballad, beautiful, sad, and upon its close I soon realized I had finished one of the most important records of 2007… and it’s not even here yet.

Enjoy.

Here is the video for "Tribulations," which can be found on the debut:

Hunting For Witches

Song: Hunting For Witches
Artist: Bloc Party
Album: A Weekend in the City







Bloc Party’s “Silent Alarm” was one of my favorite records of last year. I didn’t love ALL of it, but there was much to enjoy and several of the songs remained in constant rotation on my iPod. They were yet another band influenced by 80’s goth AND pop, and I just really dug lead singer Kele Okereke’s voice. They blew up after “Silent Alarm” and released several singles both here as well as in Europe. (Where they are considered superstars.) The album was big enough in fact to warrant an entire remix album, entitled (not so cleverly) “Silent Alarm Remixed.” Which I must say, as those things go, was pretty darn cool.

It’s safe to say that their follow up is hotly anticipated by the music world and it has in fact already been leaked and distributed via the web. I expect that because of this the late February release date will be bumped up closer. I’ve taken a listen and it seems just okay to me… a bit more of the same with a few new flourishes, though not a departure of their signature sound at all. “Hunting for Witches” is the song that really jumped out at me and I keep listening to. It’s a great dance-rock track that moves along nicely yet contains a dark underbelly to it. It’s not the first single, “The Prayer” is… which is also good, this one is just grabbing me a bit more.

Enjoy.

Into The Ocean

Song: Into The Ocean
Artist: Blue October
Album: Foiled






I have a very good friend who recommended this band to me recently. They are an indie rock act from Texas that take their cues from a lot of 80’s jangle rock. “Into the Ocean” is taken from their fourth album “Foiled” which came out this year. I can’t speak for the whole record as this is all I’ve heard but I like lead singer Justin Furstenfeld’s hushed vocals that know how to soar when needed.

The group’s first taste of success had been the inclusion of their song “Calling You” on the American Wedding Soundtrack which helped it become a minor hit within the suburbs of Dallas. A quick look at their sales figures showed that “Foiled,” surprisingly, has sold over 600,000 copies since its release in March of this year. Pretty impressive considering that the new Janet Jackson record hasn’t sold that much yet, and is just about to fall off the charts.

To be honest, until my friend told me about them I had not heard of them at all… yet their record is #107 this week on Billboards top 200. I don’t say that to be obnoxious, it’s just rare that there is a moderately successful band that I haven’t at least HEARD of. Then again, when Danity Kane topped the charts a month back I had to be explained who they were. Oh well, you can’t know it all! ;)

Thank you Jamie!

Enjoy.

Fidelity

Song: Fidelity
Artist: Regina Spektor
Album: Begin to Hope

Speaking of girls with pianos… here is one of my favorite songs of the year, Regina Spektor’s “Fidelity,” which was the lead single from her sophomore album “Begin to Hope.” When Regina first hit the scene she toured with the Strokes and got a lot of media attention surrounding the Russian songstress’ debut “Soviet Kitsch.” I didn’t care for that record that much and didn’t understand what the fuss was about, but “Begin to Hope” makes good on the promise… she’s one to watch.

The melody is very quirky to this song, as is her singing, which gives it a very unique sound. Below is the video which is cute, though I am glad I wasn’t involved in this fight, must have been murder to clean up.

Enjoy.

Humpty-Dumpty

Song: Humpty-Dumpty
Artist: Tori Amos
Album: China (Single







Tori Amos is a love her or hate her artist. You either dig her off the wall (to totally incomprehensible) lyrics, or find them cloying or even frustrating. When Tori burst on the scene with her sophomore album “Little Earthquakes,” she was a revelation to me in high school. Her subsequent albums have been a bit all over the place, at times I thought she lost her mind (“Boys For Pele”) that she had lost her touch (”To Venus & Back”) and then that she had made the best record of her career (“Scarlet’s Walk”) only to follow it up with her absolute worst (“The Beekeeper.”) [Tori has been many things but never this boring.]

What got me really hooked on Tori in the beginning wasn’t just how different and powerful (not to mention oddly catchy) that “Little Earthquakes” and “Under the Pink” were, but the myriad of amazing b-sides that could be found on the CD singles released during this time. B-Sides are of course the extra songs that were recorded during the time of an album but left off the official release for whatever reason. Only semi-obsessed music dorks like yours truly really pay attention to b-sides, but sometimes they offer an interesting glimpse into the creative process. The formula truly goes, great album, good b-sides, bad album, AWFUL b-sides.

Late September Tori released her fist box set called “A Piano” which collected many of her best known b-sides, alternate versions, and live cuts from all of her albums. Five CD’s of unabashed Tori, which may be way too much for the casual listener. I actually haven’t gotten the collection yet, as I own most of it already… but am still interested in getting it at some point. I have enjoyed, since its release, seeing fan boards go ablaze with typically crazy Tori fans arguing over what was included, what was excluded, etc. (Tori fans are particularly obsessive.) While a glance at the track list seemed pretty extensive by my knowledge, I did miss her fun cover/re-write of “Humpty Dumpty,” which was released on the “China” single. If you’re a casual fan, and maybe love “Little Earthquakes” but get lost in her further catalog, I would highly recommend both the “China” and “Winter” singles as they comprise the best of Tori’s b-side output from this period.

Enjoy.

Oh Come All Ye Faithful

Song: Oh Come All Ye Faithful
Artist: Twisted Sister
Album: Twisted Christmas







I don’t know about you, but the fact that it is December 1st today is semi-freaking me out. I was just wondering where the summer went, and now the fall is out the door and winter is in full swing. (Despite it being close to 70 in New York.) In the music world, its tis’ the season for releases that make perfect gift, but also for an onslaught of holiday themed music. Personally, I half loath holiday music… which probably comes across as a little bah-humbug, but I do find most of it pretty grating.

There have been some half-way tolerable holiday collections from various artists, and a scant few full holiday albums from artists that work. (I personally love the Brenda Lee Christmas record the best.) But while there are artists I really like with new holiday albums out this year (Aimee Mann, Sarah McLachlan) I really have zero interest in getting them.

I can promise you I won’t be highlighting much holiday music this month, but since it is December 1st I felt it right to show you something that I actually think is kind of funny. Twisted Sister are marking their thirtieth year as a band together by releasing one final album, and it’s a holiday record to boot. “Twisted Christmas” is comprised of the hair-metal legends putting their sleazy, nasty voodoo all over classics like “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” and “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” (with Lita Ford!) It’s all kind of awful, but that’s besides the point… what’s funny is that what was once considered dangerous is now kitschy fun.

Best of the lot is the first single, “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” which is done in the style of their biggest hit, “We’re Not Gunna Take It.” (The band has actually admitted that their song was inspired by the holiday classic. Really?) It works… not really as “music” per say, but at least it’s something different! And in true Twisted Sister style they have made two funny clips for the song, one animated and one live action (which will REALLY remind you of “We’re Not Gunna Take It”) that are a fun view. Check them out below.

Enjoy, and heck… Happy Holidays!