Don't Stop Believing (DJ Teva Sway Beat Remix)

Song: Don't Stop Believing (DJ Teva Sway Beat Remix)
Artist: Journey
Album: N/A




All of last week I spent in the wonderful beach vacation village called Provincetown at the very end tip of Cape Cod, MA. I have been going annually for the past several years and continue to enjoy the town, the crowd it draws, and the beach and pool(s) respectively. As in the past, I am always interested in the music I’ll hear over the week from the DJ’s they bring in and see what I know and what I don’t. Unfortunately, as P-Town is a pretty thriving gay resort, the music tends to be almost strictly house music, and heavy on remixes. Because, you know, that’s only what the homos listen to.

Despite my cranky attitude (am I the only one that would like to hear some ROCK from time to time?) I do enjoy dance music to a certain degree so it’s not like the whole situation is AWFUL for me, and besides… listening to other DJ’s, no matter what they play, makes you a better DJ yourself.

Not only do you have the club and bar tunes to keep up with in the evening, every single day at the Boatslip pool/bar is a “tea dance” that goes from 4 – 7 PM. This way, it is possible to basically get a buzz going in the late afternoon and carry that on until early the following morning, but for me… if I go to tea dance it means my night is going to be cut short, I just don’t have the energy… maybe I’m getting older. Anyhow, tea dance music is comprised of almost exclusively house remixes. In past years the packed dance floor (about 150-200 people) would boogie down to thumping remixes of Kelly Clarkson’s “Since You’ve Been Gone” and “Behind These Hazel Eyes” and then of course another recent classic… The Pussycat Dolls “Don’t Cha.” I’d love to know if this was intentional as the writers of the song MUST have known it would be a hit with homos but the sight of over a hundred men sing along (mostly shirtless) to “Don’t-cha wish your girlfriend was hot like me” is really something to behold, and gives the song a totally different meaning. [Poor straight girls, now they not only have to worry about the Pussycat Dolls stealing their man… but now gay men that are no doubt probably prettier than they. Life is unusually cruel.]

This year the tradition of remixing female pop songs was no different. “U + Your Hand” by Pink seemed to be played daily, and despite not being fresh, Beyonce’s “Irreplaceable” got the dance floor treatment and the boys ate it up. They all knew the lyrics and again… there is something fun and “community-feeling” about a group of people all singing along to a song, and in the case of “Irreplaceable,” just another bitter lover taking a stand from a no-good ex. Gay men love this stuff, as evident by Deborah Cox’s entire career. Also big was a remix of the 80’s hit “Stand Back” by my love, Stevie Knicks. No stranger to the remix, Stevie has already seen her Fleetwood Mac hit “Dreams” re-worked for the dance floor by Deep Dish, as well as a White Label version of “Sara.” It is also worth noting that a dance version of Kelly Clarkson’s “Never Again” was HUGELY popular despite all the talk that the song hasn’t really caught on. I’m sorry… if you have a packed room of homo’s singing along and knowing every word it’s a h, hands down.


It might now be officially the song of the summer, as evident in its daily play at tea consistently, AND its ubiquity on pop radio, but my favorite of the daily songs I heard was Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” a vaguely sexual song that I have little idea what she’s talking about or for that matter what words she’s saying. But alas, after a good hour and a half of buzz building I found myself in the middle of that dance floor singing along. “When the sun shines we shine together, supple-up means do gree… whatever. We will always be together suck ‘em dreams, stick it out till the end…” (that is from memory of course, no google-ing) And then she stretches the word “Umbrella” into a whole chorus… “Ella…ella…ella…eh..eh..eh,” Brilliant! I’ve had a chance to preview her entire record and man if it doesn’t sound like a hits machine. She should see more “Umbrella” sized smashes come from it, and I am pleased to report that she doesn’t stick to tired Ashanti-like pop R & B and flirts with rock and electro-pop. Hot.

My favorite “out of left field” remix had to be the closing song at the very house(and dirty)-minded Fireman’s Ball on Friday night… none other than a throbbing, grab you, remix of Journey’s so-hot-right-now “Don’t Stop Believing.” While the Soprano’s finale was the obvious impetus of the selection, they chose to let the song go all the way to the end where I, just for effect, would have cut if off at the final chorus just as the show did, “Don’t stop…. SILENCE.” It would have been cruel maybe, but surely would have been the talk of the town the following day.

The DJ Teva Sway Beat Remix isn’t the one that was played that night, but my favorite of the ones I found. (I still don’t know where these DJ’s get their remixes, I often can never find the one I’ve heard out.) What I did find was that the song absolutely needed a dancy start, then a sudden cut to the familiar piano vamp from the beginning of the song sans any beats. Each remix seemed to follow this pattern as it just plain WORKS. As the music builds, only then do the beats come back, hard & heavy. I do distinctly remember this happening with the one that was played, and all the boys stopped for a second and swayed until the song picked up again.

Enjoy.

Here is the band doing the song live:

Goofy!!!

And in case you have been living under a rock (or don't have HBO)

Wanna Be (w/Lily Allen)

Song: Wanna Be (w/Lily Allen)
Artist: Dizzee Rascal
Album: Maths & English




London born Dizzee Rascal burst onto the "Grime" scene back in 2003 just as the new electronic based hip hop was making waves in the media and record buying public. "Maths & English" is Dizzee's third full length album and has already been met with pretty universal good reviews. He's gone for a more 80's hip hop vibe on the record, as evident from the Rob Base sampling early leaked track "Pussyhole."

While I have liked some of Dizzee's songs, I will be honest and say that his style wears on me, and hard to get through a full album of his material. I appreciate it more than anything else as it's great to have hip hop that exists outside the tired recycled R&B beats and violence saturated negativity that you find in most popular hip hop. Because of his style, despite superstar status in the UK and Europe he's never had a hit in America, despite hip hop being the most popular genre here.

Lead single "Sirens" is vintage Dizzee, but for the pop lover in me I immediately fell for the Lily Allen duet "Wanna Be" that contains an infectious lyrical hook from Allen which, thanks to my musical theater minded boyfriend, I now is lifted from "So You Wanna Be a Boxer" from the show Bugsy Malone. You'll love it... and won't be able to get it out of your head!

Enjoy.

Maths & English lead single "Sirens"


One of my favorite Dizze tracks "Stand Up Tall"


"So You Wanna Be a Boxer" from Bugsy Malone

How I Feel

Song: How I Feel
Artist: Kelly Clarkson
Album: My December



So much has been made of Kelly's fight with her record label over the content of "My December" (read about it here and here)it's hard not to listen to it with all these questions... Is it "pop" enough? Is it depressing? Is it a sad documentation of a a young artist losing it in the face of great success? Is there anything as good as "Since You've Been Gone???"

After being able to listen to "My December" I've decided that the whole thing stinks of a media stunt. The facts are "My December" sounds less like a musical jump than that of from "Thankful" to the blockbuster "Breakaway." It sounds like a Kelly Clarkson record... it just might be what most pop records aren't... cohesive. Kelly has made her first "album," and yet it contains a good amount of possible hit singles.

At this point, I am so suspect of the media, the press, and how they are trying to sell records I am trying to throw out everything I "know" about the record and just listen. So while I immediate had thoughts about Kelly taking the reigns of her career, getting a piece of the songwriting pie, etc. etc. what I really keep thinking about is how much I've grown to LIKE Kelly. "Since You've Been Gone" was one of those hits that come along once in a lifetime and actually, I can't think of another major pop hit that was still accceptable by the hipsters. And while lead single "Never Again" has "stalled" at radio (meaning it isn't "Since You've Been Gone II") it's not a bad song, and like most re-treads just doesn't have what "Gone" did. Oh well.

I say let the music speak for itself. I dig the straight up dirty rock of third track "Hole," and the New Wave kick of "How I Feel." Actually, as I skip through the songs to pick a favorite I am finding it tough going. "My December" is a solid pop-rock record and do NOT listen to those ridiculous Evanescence comparisons... "My December" the album isn't manufactured drama, even if this "feud" is.

Enjoy.

Never Again

Rattled

Song: Rattled
Artist: The Traveling Wilburys
Album: Collection




The Traveling Wilburys were an 80's supergroup consisting of music legends George Harrison (The Beatles,) Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne (E.L.O.) They all had silly "Willbury" names and while the music was done in a very slick 80's rock fashion (Production by Lynn) the group seemed to really just set out to A) have a blast like only a group of rock legends could, and B) try their hand at writing songs in a variety of musical styles from days done by.

Both Wilburys albums, "Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1" and Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3" (haha, there is no vol. 2... these boys are so clever) had never been released on CD but this month finds a two disc "box set" called "Collection" that pute together everything from those two albums as well as a handful of B-Sides.

Despite the pedigree of those involved, these guys were out to have fun, not write two classic albums. But there are some great songs here, including hits "End of the Line," "Handle With Care," (which was covered by Jenny Lewis and the Watson Twins) and "Last Night." I didn't remember "Rattled" from way back then (I had a cassette of vol. 1 but never got 3) but it's a fun rock-a-billy shuffle that's quick and to the point.

Enjoy.

Handle With Care


End of the Line


Inside Out

Heinrich Maneuver

Song: Heinrich Maneuver
Artist: Interpol
Album: Our Love to Admire



I was a big fan of Interpol's sophmore album, the Joy Division biting "Antics," and have subsequently been itching to hear their new record. Lead single "Heinrich Maneauver" is vintage Interpol; a touch creepy, super catchy, with lyrics so obtuse you have no idea what you're singing along to.

I have not had a chance to listen to the record in its entirety, but based on the strength of "Heinrich," it sounds like another dose of typical Interpol... which is far from a bad thing.

Enjoy.

Videos from songs on "Antics":

Evil


Slow Hands


C'mere

The Con

Song: The Con
Artist: Tegan & Sara
Album: The Con




"The Con," the fourth album by twin Canadian sisters Tegan & Sara is possibly my most anticipated album of the summer if not year. Their last album, "So Jealous" was an instant hit with me, a killer mix of new wave and pop hooks, it honestly should have made them known world wide... or at least had one pop hit, there were many contenders on the album.

After just one listen to "The Con" it is evident that they are not looking to make "So Jealous II." Though the title track has the bouncy vibe that made me fall in love with them.

Enjoy.

Speak Slow


Walking With the Ghost

The Magic Position

Song: The Magic Position
Artist: Patrick Wolf
Album: The Magic Position




I recently picked up Patrick Wolf's third album and have been really enjoying it. It's an odd mix of pop and light electronics. He's a bit of an eccentric, and only 23! I get the feeling that he's still harnessing his craft, he'll be one to watch. "The Magic Position" is the third single from the record but has been my favorite since I got it.

Enjoy.

The Magic Position


Accident & Emergency

Acceptable in the 80's

Song: Acceptable in the 80's
Artist: Calvin Harris
Album: I Created Disco




A killer mix of electro hooks and wink-wink vocals, thanks to my friend Artie I have been introduced to the dance-able charms of Calvin Harris. The album is a bit front-loaded with good stuff but has enough to make it a solid purchase.

Enjoy.

Acceptable in the 80's


The Girls

Don't Dream it's Over

Song: Don't Dream it's Over
Artist: Crowded House
Album:Crowded House


I'll always remember this song being used in the Stephen King TV miniseries "The Stand," in an opening title sequence that showed dead bodies everywhere after the leak of the deadly virus. Equal parts scary and comforting.

Brilliant.

Crowded House have a new album coming out this year.

New York is a Woman

Song: "New York is a Woman"
Artist: Suzanne Vega
Album: Beauty & Crime




I went pretty bananas for Suzanne Vega’s album “99.9F” and have been a big fan since. Her debut ranks with some of the best in music history, she had possibly the craziest pop one-hit-wonder with a song about child abuse (“Luka”,) and… she like totally loves New York City. Out of nowhere (because of an extensive hiatus between records) comes a new album for 2007, “Beauty and Crime.” Her first, notably, on Blue Note. (She’s been with A & M Records since her debut.)

After the dour, post-divorce “Songs in Red and Gray” from 2001, I am happy to say that Suzanne is having fun again. After the one-two punch of the upbeat “99.9F” and “Nine Objects of Desire,” it’s nice to see her return to something more up-tempo. Kick-off track “Zephyr & I” bounces along with a persistent beat and a groovy bass lick that is new for Vega, and lead single “Frank & Ava” is folk rock with enfaces on the “rock.” Really good stuff.

My immediate favorite was the slower “New York is a Woman,” a beautiful walk through a beautiful city that once again reminds me just how plain GREAT a songwriter Vega is.

I for one am glad she is back.

Enjoy.

Some of my favorites…

“Blood Makes Noise”



“Caramel (live)”


“Tom’s Diner (DNA Remix)”


And this is the craziest thing I’ve ever seen…

Going to a Town

Song: Going to a Town
Artist: Rufus Wainwright
Album: Release the Stars



I don’t really fault people for disliking Rufus Wainwright, his music is an odd mix of classical driven pop with sweeping strings and what can only be described as “a flare for the theatrical.” But those that love him REALLY love him. Me… well I like him, and there are some songs I really love. His voice, while distinctive, doesn’t bother me and puts a real personality on everything he does. And he’s an “out” singer-songwriter, which I surely appreciate.

Rufus’ new album “Release the Stars” just came out earlier this month. After the expansive double album “Want I” and “Want II,” which basically found Rufus at his most “Rufus,” I thought he could either go to another new level in his craft, do more of the same, or worst… just make an awful record. “Release the Stars” is in fact more of the same, no dip in quality, but no step forward either.

While I haven’t found any songs on the album that surpass anything he’s done in the past, lead single “Going to a Town” is worth noting as one of the most dower lead singles in recent memory, but it’s a song we here in America need to hear. Take a listen, and you’ll get what I mean.

Enjoy.

Here is the video for "Going to a Town"

All of My Friends

Song: All of My Friends
Artist: Franz Ferdinand
Album: All of My Friends (Single)


So I am just a touch obsessed with LCD Soundsystem as of late, only because their new record, “Sound of Silver” is just THAT good. It currently holds the place for record of the year in my eyes and while it is still early, I have a feeling it will no doubt find itself on many many critics year-end lists.

This month sees the release of the single “All of My Friends,” the centerpiece of the album and my favorite of the bunch. The single is interesting because it has a handful of B-Sides and covers of the song by Franz Ferdinand and Velvet Underground legend John Cale. I have flipped for the Franz cover, they go much more punk than the original, making it more in the vein of the 80’s New Wave that lead LCD James Murphy loved versus just Franz Ferdinanding it.

If I am honest the B-Sides have a lot to be desired, much more ambient and atmospheric than the traditional song-based writing that can be found on the album. Also, while I understand that there must be a single edit, the 7 + minute album version is just better all around. The song is about the build, and without the proper time given I think it is robbed of its true emotional impact.

I told you… I’m obsessed!

Enjoy.

The video for “All of My Friends”

Gagging Order

Song: Gagging Order
Artist: Radiohead
Album: Com Lag




While the world waits for the next Radiohead album, which is rumored to come out sometime this year, the band has decided to release “Com Lag” an EP that was released only in Japan and Australia in 2004. “Com Lag” came on the heels of their last studio album “Hail to the Thief” containing a live version of “Thief’s” “2 + 2 = 5” as well as remixes and a handful of b-sides. It’s as long as the official album, and a true surprise it wasn’t released anywhere else until this month.

I consider myself a huge Radiohead fan, though while I thought that virtually every album they had released was THE record of that year, “Hail to the Thief” unfortunately left me cold. While “Kid A” and “Amnesiac” continued Radiohead along the “strange” path that they began on “O.K. Computer,” those records were filled with killer songs that got better with repeated listens. “Thief” continued the weird, but I really felt like the songwriting had suffered, and the experimentation was nothing they hadn’t done before.

What many Radiohead fans have really wanted was the straightforward rock songwriting they perfected by their sophomore album “The Bends.” The only thing that came close was the live favorite “True Love Waits” that still has never been released in studio form. In that vein, “Gagging Order” is a pretty straightforward acoustic ballad about, well it seems finding a dead body at a crime scene. (Still happy!) I really dig this song and am happy they are releasing the EP so more people can hear it.

“Com Lag” is a must for Radiohead fans but it also shows the interesting choices the band made while compiling “Thief.” The “Los Angeles” version of “I Will” streamlines the song and leaves out the vocal effect from the “Thief” version. I think I like it better. While Thom Yorke’s solo record was well received critically, it just reminded me how much I missed old exciting Radiohead. I eagerly await the next record and hope they can get some of their edge back.

Enjoy.

“2 + 2 = 5” Live:

Time Won't Let Me Go

Song: Time Won't Let Me Go
Artist: The Bravery
Album: The Sun and the Moon


The Bravery are a New York City band that I want to like more than I actually do. I “discovered” the band before their debut came out and fell in love with future singles “An Honest Mistake,” “Fearless,” and “Unconditional.” I was very excited about their upcoming record and thought it to be one of the more promising debuts of that year. Well, they soon were involved in an odd feud with The Killers, whom were also pimping their debut but it then turned out that the bands shared a label (Island) and more suspect… the same PR firm. Fabricated. I officially hate “the business.”

Despite all of this, I got both “Hot Fuss” and The Bravery’s self titled album and ended up listening to the Killers more. After the hoopla that was The Killers second record (which did okay) The Bravery have something to prove which might not exactly be fair, since the Killers debut kicked theirs ass in regards to sales and hit singles but when you open up your big mouth, you gotta put-up or shut-up.

Later this month will see the release of the bands sophomore set, “The Sun and the Moon.” All I have to go on is the first single “Time Won’t Let Me Go,” not a flat out synth-rocker, but a breezy slice of vocal distorted New Wave. It is not, if I can continue this ridiculous comparison, in the same league as lead Killer single “When You Were Young” from their sophomore album, but after a few listens you find yourself nodding along and digging its lazy vibe. A nice slice of Summer fun that might be perfect for those humid-drenched summer parties on your roof deck in Williamsburg. And cool enough until someone asks you who is playing… because The Bravery are SO five minutes ago, and weren’t they like, a ska band once? (Double ugh hipsters)

What do you think?

Enjoy.

The cool video for last album's "Honest Mistake"

Bouncing Off The Clouds

Song: Bouncing Off The Clouds
Artist: Tori Amos
Album: American Doll Posse


I suppose it’s easy to dislike Tori Amos, or simply write her off as a freak. She is an artist that follows her muse and artistic vision, which can be maddening, confusing, and totally thrilling. Her latest, “American Doll Posse” continues in the tradition of Tori being, well… Tori. It’s a “concept” record of sorts in which she sings the songs from the point of view of five different woman whom she names and even dons different wigs on the album artwork to demonstrate the look and attitude of these woman. SO Tori!

I will be honest and admit a few things; A) I’m a pretty unabashed Tori fan, and have been since High School, B) despite A, I’m not a Tori obsessive (and it seems most of her fans are) and actually really disliked her last record, her absolute worst, and C) I only half follow Tori’s concepts and obtuse poetry.

So that said… “American Doll Posse” seems to be an overlong, maddeningly random, Tori-force, a more rock record unlike anything she’s done since her first album, and yes… I mean the never re-released 80’s pop rock debut “Y Kant Tori Read.” At this point, I am not following the five-lady concept and am just trying to get THROUGH this epic. But there is a lot of great stuff here. First single “Big Wheel” is a groovy rocker that finds Tori at her most 70’s, “Bouncing Off Clouds” is the return of dance-remixable Tori, and “Digital Ghost” has a rock power ballad that could have been a mess if it were not for Tori’s commanding voice. Who knows what she’s talking about, but something good is going on here. I’ve not nearly gotten through all the albums treasures, but I’m happy to say that I want to keep listening, which was not the case on the disastrous “The Beekeeper.”

Tori had been falling out of my favor starting with the crazy-bitch manifesto that was “Boys For Pele” (which many fans will argue is her shinning moment) but I faithfully purchased every new release (sans the Greatest Hits package and the rarities box set “A Piano” that I might have been interested in if it hadn’t followed “Beekeeper.” Every album still had at least a few tunes that made them worth having, and then came “Scarlet’s Walk” which in my opinion might be the best of her albums to date. Again, a concept is in there, but it’s interesting, about a woman traveling through the U.S. post 9/11 and breathing it all in, good and bad. It’s Tori as storyteller and it just happens to have some of Tori’s most beautiful music. If you don’t have it, and like her even a little, go get it now.

So far I am recommending “American Doll Posse” as it shows us another side of Tori, the rock chick we knew was there but hadn’t been fully realized. The haters won’t have their minds changed, the devoted will rejoice, and fans like me will just say, “right on Tori, you still got it.”

Enjoy.

The video for "Big Wheel"

Threshold Apprehension

Song: Threshold Apprehension
Artist: Black Francis
Album: Bluefinger




As a pretty huge Frank Black fan, both his essential work with the Pixies as well as his extensive solo output, I was unquestionably disappointed with his last release, the double album “Fast Man, Raider Man.” After the country tinged home run that was “Honeycomb,” a double album was sure welcome… but it was boring. Oh Frank… don’t let us down!

As mentioned, I am a big Frank Black fan. I have all of his solo records (Twelve so far) and think (unlike a lot of Pixies snobs) that some of his best work can be found there. My personal favorite is the killer “Dog in the Sand” but literally have found at least a handful of tracks on every solo record that I really dug. That was until “Fast Man, Raider Man.” Given how prolific he is, I suppose some slack should be granted.

BUT, after a wildly successful reunion tour with the Pixies, he has pretty much dispelled rumors of a reunion album and I believe this is simply because expectations are just too high. With only four full-length Pixies records in existence, all considered modern classics depending on whom you talk to, how on earth do you truly follow that up? I guess you don’t… and you just keep cranking out solo records which the world doesn’t hold to the same standard.

So almost immediately on the heals of “Raider Man” comes the mysterious “Bluefinger,” which got leaked a few months back. Oddly, Mr. Black has decided for this album to return to his old Pixies moniker “Black Francis.” This may not be official, as the album doesn’t have a release date as of yet.

The record is a return to the straight ahead punk influenced rock that made the first couple albums he did with the Catholics sound so raw. Gone are the country leanings… is the “sad punk” back? The album apparently has a lot of references to Dutch artist Herman Brood who committed suicide by jumping off the roof of the Hilton Hotel in Amsterdam. I am really digging the record, MUCH better than the last for sure. Second track “Threshold Apprehension” is Black as his most unhinged, the likes of which we have not seen in quite some time. I welcome the return, and despite my disappointment with the last record, I will always take each new record as a new clean slate… and this one is worth it.

Enjoy.

Bird Flu

Song: Bird Flu
Artist: M.I.A.
Album: Kala



M.I.A.’s debut record, 2005’s “Arular” was one of my favorite records of that year. It sounded home-made yet was as fresh as anything out there. Singles “Galang,” “Bucky Done Gone,”and “Sunshowers” were some of the more interesting world music inspired hip-hop to emerge on the scene and because of her political stance (and marketing) the beautiful Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasam (M.I.A. was a good choice) was pretty hot with the alternative set. My favorite track from her first record was the raucous “10 Dolla” which had the unforgettable chorus; “How much can I get for ten dolla? (Anything you want!)” Hot.

M.I.A.’s second album “Kala” is being released sometime this year, but no date has been set. The first single, “Bird Flu” has been released to her MySpace page and a video has been made for it, shot in Jamaica. To be honest, even though I have read the lyrics and listened to the song many times, I have no idea what she’s talking about. And when asked why she named the song “Bird Flu” M.I.A. answered simply, “because the beat is gunna KILL people.”

Umm… okay.

While I’m a fan, and like “Bird Flu,” I’m looking for more from her follow up. She’s working with everyone from Timbaland to Three 6 Mafia on the record, so we’ll see what happens. You can find more about M.I.A. on her official website, but as a warning, it’s really LOUD.

Enjoy.

The video for “Bird Flu”


And the videos from “Arular”
“Galang”


“Bucky Done Gone”

(This is not, as I originally thought, a plea to eject the last season Idol contestant from the show. And I’m kidding.)

“Sunshowers”

NYC Beat

Song: NYC Beat
Artist: Armand Van Helden
Album: Ghettoblaster






I was a HUGE fan of DJ/Producer/Remixer Armand Van Helden’s 2005 single “In Your Eyes.” I played it over and over and was surprised it didn’t catch on like another great house track from that year, Bodyrockers “I Like The Way.” Though, “I Like the Way” was sold for a Coke commercial… probably had a little something to do with it.

The corresponding album that featured “In Your Eyes,” “Nympho” was hot or miss, but that’s really house music… and I personally find it a little too repetitive. Armand is really guilty of going overboard with the repetition, and yet I totally dig a lot of his stuff. It’s great for working out, walking to work, or being on like… a lot of drugs.

Armand returns with “Ghettoblaster,” a more 80’s electro throwback record that still sounds very much like Armand. At first listen it is once again hit or miss and while I haven’t dug anything on here as much as “In Your Eyes” or “My, My, My” from “Nympho,” it shouldn’t disappoint any Armand fans. The first standout track is the bouncy “NYC Beat.” It sounds pretty underwhelming, until exactly 1:59 in and the groove really kicks in… I can’t help from dancing a little.

Enjoy.

Here is the video for the KILLER single “In Your Eyes” though I must say this album and single edit doesn’t get the full build as the extended club version. If you’re going to buy this song buy that version.


And here is the video for the first single “Touch Your Toes” it’s pretty stupid… or is in bananas? B-A-N-A-N-A-S!?!?

Closer

Song: Closer
Artist: Travis
Album: The Boy With No Name



Earlier this year Chris Martin of Coldplay introduced “Big Chair” a new song by the Scottish band Travis on Radio 1 noting; “We're gonna finish with an incredible exclusive, we're very privileged to play it. It's a new song by the band Travis, the band that invented my band and lots of others." Truly, Travis was first known as “the quiet Radiohead,” which Coldplay was then referred to as, and then Keane was the next Coldplay… on and on.

Travis debuted their first album in 1997 called “Good Feeling” which was produced by Steve Lillywhite whom has worked with U2, The Cranberries, The Dave Matthew’s Band, and Morrissey. But it was 1999’s “The Man Who” (produced by Nigel Godrich who made a pretty good name for himself by producing a little record called “OK Computer”) that really catapulted Travis to fame. The single “Why Does it Always Rain on Me?” was a smash, and follow up singles made it one of the most popular records in Europe, and turned the band into international superstars.

While I suppose I could start an argument with Travis fans… I think the follow up album, 2001’s “The Invisible Band” (also produced by Godrich) is even better. First single “Sing” was the most played song in Britain that summer and “Side” is my hands down favorite Travis song ever. It’s a great album, and continued their world domination (well… outside the states.) The next record “12 Memories” was a spotty affair, and I must admit it disappointed me quite a bit. There were many songs I did really dig off the record but after the one-two punch of “Man” and “Band,” “Memories” just didn’t stand up. They produced the record themselves, and even changed the look of their cover, while both of the previous had similar looks and fonts.

Travis return with “The Boy With No Name” this May and in many ways it’s a return to form. Once again Nigel Godrich is behind the decks, and they returned the font! (Actually I quite like the look of the cover art.) As I listened I first thought it was just more of the same Travis, and it many ways it is… but what surprised me was after listening and thinking it was just okay, I went back to “12 Memories” and gave it another listen. I was (as many fans were) too hard on that record as it contains some really great stuff, as does the new record. It’s just another great Travis album!

First single “Closer” has a nice breezy hook in the typical Travis vein, better still is the upbeat “Selfish Jean,” the soaring “Colder,” and the ode to New York City “New Amsterdam.” The video for “Closer” features a cameo from Ben Stiller, whom I am just about fed up with… ugh, he used to be so funny. Oh well. Get the new Travis record when it comes out, and if you have no idea who Travis is order their singles collection entitle (duh) “” and then get the new record when it comes out in May!

Enjoy.


The video for “Closer”

Lipgloss

Song: Lipgloss
Artist: lil Mama
Album: Lip Gloss Single




Seemingly coming out of nowhere, the next "Hollaback/London Bridge" comes from seventeen-year-old Brooklynite Lil Mama with her debut single, "Lipgloss." It's about as ridiculous as it sounds and insanely catchy.

I recenly saw a piece on the news that said tweens and teens are acting and dressing too sexual. They obviously have not gotten the latest word on the street as they failed to mention anything about the teenage sexual lure that is lipgloss. Like a "Love Potion #9" for the hip-hop teen set, as reinforced by the energetic video below.

"It's poppin', it's poppin', it's poppin', It's poppin'..."

Enjoy... you're going to like it more than you expect.


The "Lipgloss" video

I love the self-esteem lesson at the end. Cute.

What Light

Song: What Light
Artist: Wilco
Album: Sky Blue Sky



Wilco have been critical darlings for years now, finding their peak with “Yankee Hotel Foxtrot” a troubled project that ended up being the bands biggest critical and commercial success. I preferred the album that came before, “Summer Teeth” which was released in 1999. Their follow up to “Foxtrot,” the downbeat “A Ghost is Born” lost me, losing any of the joy and fun that could be found on the early records. Though… it did win a Grammy for best Alternative Album, and best Packaging.

May 15th will see the release of their latest, “Sky Blue Sky.” Upon first listen is sounds much like “A Ghost is Born” to me, though the song “What Light” has really stood out for me, a little bit country, a little bit folk, it’s a great song and one of my current favorites.

Enjoy.

Kiss You Off

Song: Kiss You Off
Artist: Scissor Sisters
Album: Ta-Dah






Now this is a video.

I Need Some Fine Wine And You, You Need To Be Nicer

Song: I Need Some Fine Wine And You, You Need To Be Nicer
Artist: The Cardigans
Album: Super Extra Gravity



You probably know Sweden’s The Cardigans best from their international hit “Lovefool” from 1996. Here in America, the song became huge after being in “William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet” starring Leo DiCaprio and Claire Daines. I remember getting the album “Lovefool” was on, “First Band on the Moon” after it was getting a lot of buzz on the alternative circuit and when I first heard it I though… “this is going to be a hit.” I was right!

I really liked the entire “First Band” album, it had a crazy 60’s vibe and I subsequently got the prior album “Life,” which was actually a mix of their debut “Emmerdale” and the European version of “Life.” If felt like more of the same, but I actually liked it better, with single “Carnival” being a favorite. (Honestly, since the records are so similar I don’t really listen to “First Band” much, “Life” gets all the play.

Their follow up, 1996’s “Gran Turismo” (yes named after the game) went into a completely different direction of upbeat electroni-rock and it stands as my favorite of all their records. There was no hit the size of “Lovefool” on the record and it came and went quietly. Because of this, their next record, 2003’s “Long Gone Before Daylight” wasn’t released here in the U.S. and I must admit… I never got it. I do have a song on the record, “And Then You Kissed Me” which is a quiet lilting ballad, which apparently is a good representation of the whole record. I actually love that song… and should probably get the whole record.

But I DID get the follow up, “Super Extra Gravity” that once again sees the band go in a new more rock direction. While I never really connected with it, and initially thought first single “I Need Some Fine Wine,and You, You Need to Be Nicer” was just so-so, with an annoying title. But it has grown on me, and as I write this I’m listening to the record and enjoying. It needs a second chance from me!

Lead single Nina Persson has an amazing angelic voice that I have always liked and it seems to fit whatever style they decide to be writing in. While I repeatedly stated that they “went in a new direction” for each record I think that is the incorrect thing to say. The Cardigans simply write ALBUMS, like the best artists and bands that make a collection of songs a complete artistic statement, versus just another collection of songs. Go out and buy some, you won’t regret it.

Enjoy.

Here are a few different videos from different albums, you’ll see what I mean:

“Carnival,” from “Life”

“My Favorite Game” from “Gran Turismo” (This one was banned from MTV because it contained “reckless driving.” Please.)


“You’re the Storm” from “Long Gone Before Daylight”


“I Need Some Fine Wine And You, You Need To Be Nicer”

Love Story

Song: Love Story
Artist: Katharine McPhee
Album: Katharine McPhee



Despite the fact that everyone seems to agree this crop of future pop stars are the least talented they’ve had yet, it remains a media blockbuster. It’s all over the T.V., newspapers, blogs, you name it… “American Idol” is now a full-on entertainment hurricane and only seems to get bigger each year. Are you embarrassed about how much you know about Senjaya? There’s a good reason you know so much… he’s everywhere. Even a little girl who cried on air when he came out to perform has had features on “Extra.” I can’t seem to escape it.

But the fact is… I love “American Idol.” I get to care about these kids as we meet them from their first audition, and despite the level of talent, I feel like I become part of their lives. Isn’t that what the best TV does? Is it just odd that these “characters” are like… real? But the facts are… I think most of the music that comes out of “American Idol” is pretty awful, with a few exceptions.

cross-over smash…The best of what has come of the “American Idols” has to be the “Since You Been Gone.” Have you heard this song done karaoke? It IS the new “I Will Survive.” That song is the best of what’s come from “Idol,” and Kelly is probably the most likable of anyone that’s been on the show. (Though Carrie Underwood comes close.) She happened to get some of the best songs of the current pop-rock genre for her sophomore album, and her sales matched it. Her upcoming third album is one of the more anticipated of this year.

Though I think she was a plant. (But more on Kelly another day.)

I recently got to take a listen to a couple new albums from “American Idol” alums a few months ago. And have found one good song. I listened to the Daughtry record, the new Fantasia, Katharine McPhee, Taylor Hicks, and that guy that was on the “Idol” for a while; Mario Vasquez. He quit, bucked the “Idol” system and possibly looked a gift horse in the mouth. But was he smart? Did he just find a way to use the exposure and do things his way? Maybe.

I’m not sure why exactly I spent so much time with this music, I just wanted to have honestly listened to it… before I trashed it.

So among all of this music I found one song I really really dug. The opening track on Katharine McPhee’s self-titled debut album, “Love Story,” is a fun, soulful jam that while slickly produced, does try to retain some of the classic instrumentation of Motown. It’s a great opener, but the rest of the album goes nowhere. And I somehow wanted something different than urban pop from Katharine. It would have been cool if she went in an Amy Winehouse direction, she’s got the voice for it, and on the strength of “Love Story,” I say she could still do something interesting, but this record isn’t it.

Unfortunately, the actual winner from last season, the strangely gray Taylor Hicks, released a pretty boring record of uninspired “soul.” I must admit I didn’t even listen to the entire thing, assuming that he didn’t hide any gems later in the disc. It’s not offensive really, just unbelievably bland… though it’s still not as bad as the Mario Vasquez record.

I very pleasant surprise was the Fantasia record, that felt sufficiently “street,” was pretty catchy, and just had… like genuine personality. Something that even Katharine is missing. And I watched that girl’s entire season! I cried when she cried.

Fantasia’s first album did surprisingly mediocre, so she had much to prove with the sophomore record which is much more current, and not trying as hard to please ever single “Idol” watcher that might buy the record. She’s played herself in a Lifetime movie, and now that “Fantasia,” the second album has quickly come and gone, she’s on Broadway starring in “The Color Purple.” At least she’s working.

But honestly, the music is secondary… “Idol” is all about the show, the product tie-ins, Randy’s makeup, Paula’s state, Simon’s brutal honestly, and the Seacrest gay jokes. It’s watched by millions, and millions vote, It has become something that people talk about… like “Dallas,” “Twin Peaks,” and Anna Nicole Smith.

On average, the music out of “Idol” is pretty week, but there are exceptions. I like the show, and have been a faithful watcher since the first season but have zero urge to go out and buy any of the music that is generated from it. I think it has a serious place in history as a cultural phenomenon, but don't look for a lot of music history from its "stars."

Enjoy.

Videos from the “Idol’s” gang:

Katharine’s tepid first single “Over It”


Fantasia’s “Hood Boy” (officially dope)


My current favorite of this season, Blake Lewis

Need More Time

Song: Need More Time
Artist: The Epoxies
Album: Epoxies


My cousin Kyle sent me this song and I have not been able to stop listening to it. are a Portland, Oregon band that fuses new wave with post punk and a mix of just plain fun. This is all I’ve got from the band, but really have been digging it.

“Need More Time” was the first single off their self-titled debut from 2002. It got more recognition, as well as the band, when the song was featured on the 2004 “Rock Against Bush” compilation. The band has since released a follow up in 2005 called “Stop the Future.”

They do a fun cover of Adam Ants “Beat My Guest” which you can hear on their MySpace page. The band is a fun mix of Blondie, The Cars, and Gary Newman. You might just love them.

Here are some videos from the band…

Need More Time


Stop Looking At Me


Synthesized

Everybody Wants to Rule the World

Song: Everybody Wants to Rule the World
Artist: Patti Smith
Album: Twelve



Patti Smith is a rock legend. 1975 saw the release of “Horses,” her debut masterpiece and what some consider the first “art-punk” album. Smith was at the forefront of the New York CBGB’s punk scene and was one of the first to score a record deal, even beating The Ramones.

I won’t bother trying to write a synopsis if her career as I won’t do her justice, but the interested might start with the two-disc retrospective “Land (1975-2002)” which will give you the key tracks in her career. Rock purest will differ though, and I will say that I am thankful I was given “The Patti Smith Masters: The Collective Works,” a box set that includes re-mastered versions of her first five complete albums, the recently released “Gone Again,” as well as a single disc of “hits” that is comprised of about half of the first disc of “Land.” What is important about these albums as wholes are Smith’s fusion of punk and poetry and the more “arty” side of her music, which is not represented in any collection.

The box set came only after Smith’s full on return to the rock world with the release of 1996’s “Gone Again” (included) after the death of her husband, Fred “Sonic” Smith. (Prior album “Dream of Life” in 1988 was a one-off, making the true gap in her career from 1979’s “Wave” to 1996.) After getting the box set, I was a bit obsessed with Patti and was excited when she released another new album in 1997, “Peace and Noise.” I never connected with that album, but absolutely LOVED the follow up, 2000’s “Gung Ho.”

This year will see the release of “Twelve” a collection of (yes!) twelve covers from all over the musical map. It contains touchstones from Smith’s influences like Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, and Jimmi Hendrix, as well as odd choices from Nirvana and Tears for Fears. The inclusion of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” makes sense as Smith found some connection with Kurt Cobain and even wrote a song about him following his death called “About a Boy” which was on “Gone Again.” I am stuck by her take on “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” as it does seem to be such an odd choice for her, though it has quickly become my favorite from the collection which is a bit to flaccid all around in my opinion.

With Patti Smith you will never get something straight forward, she is an artist through and through and I was very pleased to hear that this year she was finally being inducted in to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. (Along with friends R.E.M. whom she guested with on “E-Bow the Letter,” from “New Adventures in Hi-Fi” which may go down as the strangest first single from a popular rock band ever. Remember it? Probably not.) “Twelve” is definitely a hold-over as we wait for the next true piece of the Patti Smith legacy.

Enjoy.

A performance of one of my favorite songs of Patti’s “Ask the Angels”

Song 4 Mutya (Out of Control)

Song: Song 4 Mutya (Out of Control)
Artist: Groove Armada
Album: Soundboy Rock




Like any true self marketer, Groove Armada are calling their latest album “Soundboy Rock” which will be released on May 7th as “their best.” Well good!

You probably know Groove Armada best as the guys that brought us “I See You Baby” which featured the memorable chorus “I see you baby… shakin’ that ass” which became an international hit after Fatboy Slim remixed the track in his big beat sound. I was a big fan of their diverse 2002 album “Lovebox” which featured some great deep house and disco tracks. Like Basement Jaxx, the duo in Groove Armada like to try many things and work with a variety of vocalists and styles. “Easy,” from “Lovebox” went to number 5 on the US dance charts and had a way cool disco-for-the-future vibe. It was one of my favorite songs from that record and despite the chart position, I never heard it anywhere.

“Soundboy Rock” seems to continue in the vein of “Lovebox” showcasing a wide range of vocalists and styles. “Get Down” is the first single, but the song I immediately grabbed onto was the unfortunately titled “Song 4 Mutya (Out of Control)” which recalls, (and name-checks) Prince. It’s a really hot song and one that will get you rocking into your weekend.

After an initial listen I think “Soundboy” is going to be a great record, and one that may stand up along with “Lovebox.” We’ll see… I’ll keep you posted.

Enjoy.

The video for first single “Get Down”


To hear “Easy”

Makes Me Wonder

Song: Makes Me Wonder
Artist: Maroon 5
Album: It Won’t Be Soon Before Long




Like Fergie’s “London Bridge,” Ace of Base’s “The Sign,” and Taco’s “Puttin’ on the Ritz” before it, Maroon 5’s breakthrough first single “This Love” was a huge guilty pleasure for me. Sure it was a huge hit, but I try to steer clear of stuff the Celine Dion set would also dig, I have a rep to uphold after all. The problem was, as bouncy blue-eyed soul-lite goes, “This Love” was just about… well, perfect. Lead singer Adam Levine’s vocals were admittedly pretty beautiful and the chorus had super-catchy written all over it. I went as far as even doing the song karaoke one night at a bar… ugh, what a goofy hook will do to me.

Fortunately, follow up single “She Will Be Loved” proved to be just what I thought Maroon 5 were, boring candy-asses. It’s one of those cringe-inducing songs that will play from now until eternity on Lite FM stations, truly awful.

In May, the band will be releasing its eagerly awaited sophomore set entitled “It Won’t Be Soon Before Long.” (Haha boys.) It’s been over five years in the making and I am sure the band feels the need to live up to expectations. Obstacle number one is to follow up “This Love” with another fun first single, and so we have “Makes Me Wonder,” a bouncy blue-eyed-soul-lite ditty that seems to basically re-write “This Love.” On one hand, this is what a band does when they don’t have any more tricks up their sleeve but need to deliver on the promise of their biggest hit by making the same song, just a little bit BIGGER, and on the other, “Makes Me Wonder” is actually a pretty fun tune. Not sure if it’s “good” but it seems like it’ll make Maroon 5 fans happy, and do nothing to change the minds of those that loathe them.

What do you think?

Enjoy.

Here is the video:

I Could Fall in Love With You

Song: I Could Fall in Love With You
Artist: Erasure
Album: Light At The End of The World




For my 80’s English-homo-dance-duo money, I always went with the Pet Shop Boys, I felt that their sound was more diverse, they wrote great ALBUMS, and I just wrote better songs… but Erasure are still in the game and still doing their thing. May 21st will see the release of their thirteenth album, “Light At The End of The World” and “I Could Fall in Love With You” is the first single. It pretty much sounds… well, like Erasure.

Thanks to Wikipedia, (like the best site ever right?) I just learned that Vince Clark (“the straight guy in Erasure”) was not only in Yazoo (also known as Yaz,) but was in Depeche Mode as well. I didn’t know that. I suppose that there were probably one to many egos there.

I was actually a big fan of the first single from their 2005 album, “Nightbird” called “Breathe.” The rest of the album bored me, which is honestly my biggest problem with their music… too same-sounding. But “Breathe” was great, and as good as some of their better-known material from the 80’s.

“I Could Fall in Love With You” doesn’t really come close to “Breathe,” but it’s another good Erasure song, and if nothing else I like the fact that when you hear an Erasure song, you KNOW it’s them. They are that distinct musically. Well… I suppose I could mistake solo Andy Bell (“the queer in Erasure”) as Erasure, but his solo record just sounded, well… like Erasure.

Enjoy.

Here's the video for "Breathe"

Earth Intruders

Song: Earth Intruders
Artist: Bjork
Album: Volta



Bjork’s “Volta” is one of the more anticipated releases of 2007. After the introverted “Vespertine” (2001) and the voice-only “Medulla” (2004,) Bjork seems to be courting the mainstream again with collaborations with hip-hop heavyweight Timbaland. First single “Earth Intruders” is a rowdy song, at least compared with her more recent work. Timbaland’s beats are put in the back… this is Bjork’s show, but it has an urgency that I really dig, once again… it sounds like she’s transmitting from another planet.

Personally, I have found Bjork’s work to not only be the most interesting of the last several years, but also rather melodic and catchy. Sure, her stuff is “out there” but yet she’s written some of the most beautiful and interesting love songs in the past decade. I’m glad she’s moving into a more upbeat direction… as she did on “Homogenic” (1997.) While the strange lush “Vespertine” lost a lot of her fans, I continue to go back to it now and again, it’s a great mood record.

“Volta” will be released in early May and will no doubt be one of the more important releases of the year.

Enjoy.

Just a Little

Song: Just a Little
Artist: The Beau Brummels
Album: Introducing The Beau Brummels




Influenced by the British Invasion, The Beatles, and the folk-rock scene, San Francisco’s The Beau Brummels made a name for themselves as they pre-dated the Byrds, arguably the most popular (and influential) on the folk-rock scene in the 60’s. The band took their name from a 19th Century Englishman whose name conveniently came JUST after The Beatles alphabetically, and therefore would be next in the record bins.

The band only had three top forty hits, the biggest being “Just a Little” which was produced, along with the rest of their debut, “Introducing The Beau Brummels” by a young Sly Stone. Their small record label Autumn Records, owned by local DJ Tom Donahue who discovered the band, couldn’t compete with the majors as far as getting the band additional exposure while they were having mild top 40 success. Autumn was sold to Warners, who had the band record an album of top 40’s covers. In 1967 they released the critically acclaimed experimental album “Triangle,” and then their swan song, 1968’s “Bradley’s Barn.”

A few years ago, in my initial stage of discovering the Pixies’ Frank Black’s solo work, I became hooked on his cover of “Just a Little” which was on his B-sides album “Oddballs.” I didn’t realize it was cover at first, but did seem a bit too poppy for what Frank was doing at the time so I did some research and found out about the band. He does a very faithful cover, which does not stray very far from the original. The Beau Brummels only other chart hits were “Laugh Laugh” (Featured in the John Candy comedy “Uncle Buck”) and “You Tell Me Why.”

Enjoy.

How Much More

Song: How Much More
Artist: The Go Go's
Album: Beauty and the Beat




It was when I was a pre-teen that I became halfway obsessed with buying music. I remember my (very patient) Mother taking me from store to store to find the “Hungry Like a Wolf” 45, which was sold out everywhere. (I don’t know where we ended up finding it, but we did, and she didn’t stop until we did. Thanks Mom!) I also remember being about eleven or so and having “We Got The Beat” on record and listening to it over and over, like kids do, and yet… I was young enough not to realize that this tune was over five years old! (Forgive me for not being on the pulse of New Wave at five.)

But back in 1981 the Go Go’s released their debut album, and New Wave cornerstone, “Beauty and the Beat.” At the time, this was pretty cutting edge stuff and it should be noted that the Go Go’s made history as the first all-female band that wrote their own material to go number one on the album charts. They were part of the California punk scene in their early days, and some of this more rock material surfaced on 1994’s collection “Return to the Valley of the Go Go’s” Drugs and personal turmoil broke up the band after just three albums, but they returned in 2001 for their first set of new material on “God Bless the Go Go’s.”

“Beauty and the Beat” is the landmark, and essential in any collection of serious New Wave afficianadoes, but a casual fan would do well with 1990’s hits collection “Greatest.” It has all the major hits and is a good start if you don’t have anything. At this point, “Our Lips Our Sealed,” “Vacation,” and “We Got the Beat” are known simply via cultural osmosis, and have lost their edge over time, and most likely can be heard on Adult Contemporary radio. “How Much More,” from “Beauty” has always been a favorite of mine, just as catchy as the super hits but a bit less known. You can also find it on the “Greatest” collection.

Enjoy.

A video from each album:

"Our Lips Are Sealed" from "Beauty and the Beat"


"Vacation" from "Vacation"


"Head Over Heals" from "Talk Show"

This one is maybe the most "80's" and features Belinda's signature back-up singer moves. Hot.

Minding My Own Business

Song: Minding My Own Business
Artist: Coconut Records
Album: Nighttiming




Jason Schwartzman is the actor you’ll recognize from “Rushmore,” I (heart) Huckabees,” “Shopgirl,” and “Marie-Antoinette.” He is the son of actress Talia Shire and producer Jack Schwartzman. What you may not know is that he is also a musician and was in the original lineup of Phantom Planet and co-wrote their biggest track, the theme song to “The O.C.” “California.” Jason has a new project called “Coconut Records” which has been released on iTunes and will get a formal release this summer.

I have been really digging this record, love lead single (and final track) “West Coast” which has a laid back vibe, as well as the disco-tinged title-track “Nighttiming.” “Minding My Own Business” sounds like the Scissor Sisters re-writing Genesis’ “That’s All” and the entire record has a generally pleasant, fun, indie-rock vibe. It’s a bit all over the place but I have really been enjoying it and highly recommend it.

You can find more information and hear more music on their MySpace page, but if you are an MP3 lover, let me take the time to introduce to you a new website. The Hype Machine (www.hypem.com) is a blog aggregator that works as a search engine to find blogs highlighting bands and artists you dig by conveniently listing them with links to boot. So, you can simply type “Coconut Records” in to the search field and see a list of blogs that mention the band and links to MP3 downloads. You could probably find all the tracks I just mentioned.

Enjoy.

Four Winds

Song: Four Winds
Artist: Bright Eyes
Album: Cassadaga



I’ll be honest… I don’t know much about Bright Eyes early material, only recently getting into the group after 2005’s critically herald album “I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning.” I really liked that record, loved Conor Oberst’s voice and REALLY flipped for the single “First Day of My Life” which is one of the sweetest, most honest love songs to come out in a while. And did so without being goofy!

Oberst is a bit of a Ryan Adams, constantly writing and releasing music at a pace that I really can’t keep up with. “Cassadaga” is his latest, which will be released on April 10th. The album hasn’t grabbed me like “Wide Awake” did, but first single “Four Winds” is an excellent song whose melody, while not at first very catchy, really does get under your skin. Oberst is definitely an artist not from his time, having more in common with a Neil Young and other 60’s and 70’s songwriters. But he is not without his experimentation, as “Digital Ash in a Digital Urn,” which was released the same day as “Wide Awake” was a mostly electronic affair, though was critically and commercially eclipsed by the latter album.

I also dig Oberst for his integrity, releasing the brave anti-Bush administration song “When the President Talks to God” or his consistent boycott of the Clear Channel corporation, refusing to perform in any of its affiliated venues. (Which is NOT easy.)

Another key track off the new record that I really have gravitated toward is “Make a Plan to Love Me” another sweet, straight ahead ballad that wears it’s heart on it’s sleeve and yet never dips into cheesy schlock. Not an easy task.

Enjoy.

The AMAZING (and GLADD recognized) video for "First Day of My Life"


The video for "Four Winds"

Infected Girls

Song: Infected Girls
Artist: Electric Six
Album: Switzerland




While I’ve written about them before, and this record before… I wanted to re-highlight the very fun third album from Detroit’s Electric Six, “Switzerland.” First single “I Buy The Drugs” was fun and bouncy, and by looks of the video, they were squarely aiming for the college crowd for this single. Lead singer Dick Valentine’s distinct vocals are there, and despite the subject matter (umm… drugs) it lacked the goofy darkness that I like best from the band. Fortunately, there were several other cuts, more in the same vein of what I really dug from their debut “Fire” and the pretty decent follow-up “Senor Smoke.”

My absolute favorite cut off the record would have to be “Infected Girls” which has my favorite lyric from the record in it’s chorus. “Calling all protected girls, infected girls do it better.” Not to mention that it starts with the memorable “I rode a sex wave, and washed upon your shore.” How do you write this stuff? Other choice cuts include “Night Vision” and “Pulling the Plug on the Party.”

Oddly, it seems the band has decided to follow up “Drugs” with “Rubber Rocket” another just-okay track. While I do really dig the album, I must admit that it’s my least favorite of the three, but fans of the first two will still really like it, with some songs a fan-must. While goofy in a lot of ways lyrically, which is the band’s calling card, what isn’t talked about much is how great some of these rocks songs are. “Infected Girls” has a great new wave rock vibe that could be a lost classic from the 80’s.

I just really love Electric Six, and think you should too!

Enjoy.

The video for “I Buy the Drugs”


The video for “Rubber Rocket”

Alanis Does "My Humps"

By far one of the oddest things I've seen...

Ordinary Day

Song: Ordinary Day
Artist Delores O’Riordan
Album: Are You Listening?



Remember the Cranberries? Back in the early 90’s I really dug their Smiths-ish jangle-pop that was punctuated by lead singer Dolores O’Riordan’s powerful, distinctive voice. Sure “Linger” got played out a bit, and I couldn’t listen to “Dreams” with my cat in the room because Dolores’ high notes on the chorus made him crazy, like howling running around crazy. But both their debut “Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?” from 1993 and the more rocking follow up “No Need to Argue” (1994) were solid albums that remain an important piece in the history of 90’s alt-rock.

1996’s “To The Faithfully Departed” was the beginning of the end. It’s a strange record filled with some good tracks (“Salvation,” “Free to Decide”) and then some truly awful (“I Just Shot John Lennon”) Actually, I remember around the release of this album there was a review that stated that “Lennon” was “the worst song written about anything ever.” Ouch. Since the album did so poorly, I consider single (but far from hit) “When You’re Gone” to be a kind of hidden treasure. And odd mid-tempo doo-wop track, it’s a song that really showcases how powerful O’Riordan’s voice is, and it’s just a sweet pretty song. (And I usually hate those.)

Despite rumors that started as early as before the release of their sophomore album that the group was breaking up so Dolores could start a solo career, the band stayed together for another two albums that did not do well commercially. So after a four-year break, it is with much surprise that there is an ACTUAL Dolores O’Riordan solo album coming in May. I’ve been listening to it for a couple days and immediately I greeted Delores’ immediately recognizable voice like an old friend. I may have even smiled to myself.

“Are You Listening?” in a way probably just sounds like another Cranberries record due to that voice. Opener, and first single, “Ordinary Day” could have easily been on “No Need to Argue,” yet I feel like there is something missing. The album is pleasant, but with nothing new to make it truly noteworthy. But regardless, rest assured that if you were a Cranberries fan you will welcome this album with open arms. It’s a rock record, but there are a few subtle electronic elements that fit right in. Dolores is probably a rock chick at heart, though I think it would have been interesting if she went a little further with the dance elements, and do something truly different than that which she did with her band.

Enjoy.

As mentioned, the a-touch odd, but wecastmusic favorite, When You’re Gone: