Back in Your Head

Song: Back in Your Head
Artist: Tegan & Sara
Album: The Con





I recently read that CD sales are down 20% from last year, a super steep decline even given the downward trend that’s been happening over the last ten or so years post Napster and the birth of the MP3. As a music fan and someone that has spent what can only be described as “a fortune” on music throughout my life I have followed this issue, the trend, how the industry is reacting, and have also given a lot of thought to how I feel about it. On one hand, I am a supporter of the arts and the artists that make them but also as just a huge music lover, the advantages of being able to listen to so much music is a dream, and something I could never have fathomed (i.e. afforded) fifteen years ago.

When I was young, and I mean like starting at eleven, I fed the dog and mowed the lawn for $10 a week. This let me buy one new cassette a week which I did for years. When I started working part time at sixteen, and then full time during the summer, into college, etc. I bought music at a regular (if alarming) rate. This is no different a story from any other music nut, something I learned in my brief stint at a label and met people as much (and more so) into tunes as I. While buying music the day it comes out, spending every last dime, and literally going insane from waiting for a new record by an artist I love to come out is deeply ingrained within me, the internet and information sharing age has changed all that.

Napster was the jumping point which got the industry freaking out. But mind you, they also thought the cassette was the end of the industry, why are they always so nervous? But when Napster came out and I got to use it during its heyday it was a revelation. I was getting songs I always wanted (for free! and fast!) as well as super hard to find stuff I had only read about. I was really into Robbie Williams at the time and remember chatting with someone via Napster and sharing all the hard to find obscure stuff with some dude in Sweden. It was hands down just awesome. But unlike the cassette, Napster did effect the business and music sales have been declining ever since. Despite digital music sales finally being worked out, and Napster shut down and then re-launched as a pay site, the majority of the tech-savvy really liked getting tunes for free so other peer-to-peer services cropped up and the decline continued.

As blogs became more well know, then exploded, then became ubiquitous, MP3’s were just a click away. Labels sent cease and desist orders, files were taken down and then “re-upped” and as more and more cropped up the industry wanted to know one thins: how can we control it? The internet and web are a creation of the people and we get to control it. It’s one of the best and worst things that have happened in the last thirty years. And now, with the onset of large file downloading websites such as rapidshare and megaupload, old, new, and albums that haven’t even been released yet are a simple link away. Blogs now post them, people share them in chat rooms, and message boards are littered with these links. Has the new White Stripes leaked? Well it did before release, and as the way these files work it just gets multiplied and multiplied. You can literally find ANYTHING that is new, old, or yet to exist… why buy?

So as a supporter of the arts and a crazed music nut as I mentioned, I am torn between getting and hearing music I am interested in or can’t/couldn’t wait to hear, and supporting the very artists that make, in all honesty, my life a little bit better to live in. Music feeds me, inspires me, and partly makes me want to get up in the morning. So over the past six months or so I have, given in to my impulses, downloaded these albums, songs, etc. and enjoyed the freedom of not being tied to my bank account in regards to how much music I can listen to. Now only time and hard drive space are my worries. But, while this is amazing it makes me miss out on things. For example, Beck is an artist I have followed and loved since high school. I have, in my memory, waited anxiously and gone out to get at least four of his albums on their day of release. I remember tearing open the packaging for the first time, putting it into the CD player and experiencing it as an album, and possibly the way “it was designed.” For his last two I got early leaked versions online and lived with them for as much as a month before I was able to get the actual album, which I did buy. For both, Beck released versions that had tons of extras, DVD’s that you couldn’t download… making it a sound purchase. But more on that later.

Has this way of experiencing his music “ruined” the “intended” use at all? And does that really matter if I actually do purchase the music? Because I still have not gotten over the joy of opening an album, seeing the artwork, and holding it in my hands, I still buy music. Yes I download these albums and listen, if I like it, I buy it. Does this mean that I am buying as much music as I used to? No way, probably not even half. Does this mean that I am still supporting artist and music that I like and think is good? I think so. Does this mean that I have stopped being disappointed by music I buy that turns out to be garbage (one great song, lots of great marketing, mostly filler) because I get to preview it first, for as long as I want before hand. Absolutely. And that I dig.

So let’s talk about the artists and specifically those that have been very vocal in their dislike of music downloading. I feel for you, to a degree. Let’s say I make a birdhouse I am happy with and proud of. I put it up and the next day I find that it has been stolen. I’m pissed, I spent a long time on that birdhouse… who do you think you are that you can just come and steal my birdhouse! You owe me! I get this, and also understand the disappointment that must set in when you plan and work on a project for months or maybe years only to have a simple leak “ruin” the whole thing. And I also wouldn’t want someone to admire and judge my birdhouse before it was finished. In the age of the leak, many artist are finding unmixed, unfinished, and incomplete work being passed around and then JUDGED for the world to read before they have a chance to complete it to their vision. That really sucks, and would piss me off too.

But let’s talk about being a rock star, a celebrity, and the lifestyle difference of say Bono to someone like myself. While I work forty-five hours a week at a job I care little for working paycheck to paycheck, Bono gets to travel the world, work on his art when he wants to, (something I assume is his passion) meet fascinating new people, and also save the world in his free time. Sometimes when I go out to eat I get the modestly priced chicken because the $25 steak is out of my budget. I love Bono, I love him music, and seeing U2 live was one of the more pleasurable and memorable moments in my life. I love that they lead the rock star lifestyle… but is it fair? Yes he, and other rock stars work hard, do they work as hard as you or I? Do they have the same worries and fears as you and I? Do they have the feeling of little control of their lives that you and I might have?

This difference in lifestyle is what always drives me crazy when I hear those guys from Metallica cry about their music being stolen. Yes, okay… you and your record label executives aren’t making as much money as you used to. But come on… isn’t being able to work on something your passionate about, being able to travel and see the world in top fashion, take almost any amount of time off you’d like, having people that look up to you, being able to inspire, and just not worrying day to day if you can AFFORD life and the future lives of your children enough?! Yes you work hard and should be rewarded but I am sorry… since I have spent more than half of my life and what could have been my life savings on your music, concerts, and videos I say… give me a break. I’m sure you have problems, I am sure things can be difficult for you, but I can not believe that your day to day, week to week, year to year is as difficult as those that actually are BUYING your product. When are the personal rewards you receive from making over… let’s even just say $500,000+ a year just not enough. And how do you justify this when there are people in this world living in utter poverty literally hoping they can get through another day? And while I use Bono as an example of the rock star lifestyle I would also be hard pressed to find someone as privileged who has worked just as hard for people WAY less fortunate as I. Way to go Bono.


Speaking of Metallica, one of my favorite stories I tell when discussing illegal music downloading is something that happened to my good friend Bob when Napster was out and being used by millions and Metallica as a band was one seriously vocal critic of the service and the trend. They put some of their heavy legal muscle (affordable given their multi-million dollar bank accounts, because justice can be bought… hi O.J.!) and forced Napster to have any of their files removed from the service as well as the accounts deleted of anyone who had ever downloaded any of their music. [It is important to remember that at the time, Napster was the only way to really get music illegally (aside from shoplifting I guess) blogs and rapid large file sharing didn’t exist.] Anyhow, my friend Bob, who I would describe as a “super-fan” literally owned everything Metallica had ever released. Every album, VHS, singles, t-shirts, you name it. He spent what little extra money he had on this band and when he downloaded an obscure remix of their song “One” (which was unavailable commercially) his account was shut down. For this one song. He is no longer a Metallica fan.

The irony of being a millionaire in Metallica is that other millionaires probably don’t listen to your music and certainly don’t buy it. Metallica fans, by and large, are the poor, disenfranchised, and angry at the world because they have little control of their lives, and their angry music speaks to them. So fans of the band got to hear their rock star idols complain about losing out on some money that was being stolen from them while they live in mansions, drive fancy cars, and use the hard-earned money that they have taken from these poor fans and blow it on cocaine. Metallica have not since been as popular or relevant post this entire debacle. And justice for all…

So how does this get fixed? And given my points above, SHOULD it get fixed? We have, since the birth of the corporation, done our best to delete the American Dream. The Mom and Pop modest-sized businesses that have allowed certain people who have worked hard to build something and live a “comfortable” living for themselves and their families are dying. Why go get a cup of coffee you’re not familiar with from a stand-alone coffee shop when you can get a $5 frappachino© from good ol’ Starbucks which are conveniently located every other block? Why spend $500 on a stereo system at a small store with a knowledgeable staff when you can get the same system at Wal-Mart for $200 because they can buy in ridiculous bulk and get it cheaper? Why go to that small single record store and pay $20 a CD (because they had to buy them for $10-$14 each) when you can go to the aforementioned Wal-Mart or Best Buy and get it for $10? Actually… why pay at all when you can download it for free?

What the music industry fails to acknowledge is that music is just too darn, and always has been, too expensive. A DVD costs $1 to manufacture and anywhere from $9 to $35 dollars to buy. CD’s are even less to create. So why do you get to charge so much for something that doesn’t cost that much? My mother used to own a gift shop and could mark-up a product from its wholesale price by 50% or what is known as a “keystone” mark-up. Within that 50% profit she needed to pay rent, pay her employees, buy future product, and also live off it. Let’s just say that my Mother no longer has the store. And while she use to carry music because she enjoyed it, she did, as I mentioned, had to pay anywhere from $9 to $14 a CD. So how could she NOT charge $20+ a unit? And why would ANYONE pay that much when they can go to Best Buy and get the same thing at half that price? So how do you rationalize an upwards of 2,000% mark up? I suppose the reason is, you really like being rich. I understand, I’d like to be rich too… and my Mom would probably like to have her store again, and a little control of her life.

Okay, before I get too sucked into this downward spiral of the haves vs. the have-nots, let me get to why I started this post… the EXCELLENT new album by Tegan & Sara…

So yes, about a month ago the new album leaked before release date (leaks used to be news, at this point they are expected) and as it was one of my most anticipated albums of the year I got it and have been listening to it ever since. At first I was unsure how it was going to hold up to the excellent “So Jealous.” The fist two tracks, “I Was Married” and “Relief Next to Me” sure were not the new-wave upbeat pop that I was wanting, and expecting. But things kicked in with title track and third cut “The Con.” I’ve already discussed how much I like it, and despite being catchy like most of their work I love, it is layered, complex, and the best of what I want and expect by these blossoming singer-songwriters. The rest of the album was starting to grab me, even those first two tracks but it didn’t truly sink in until the album I bought came in the mail. Yes, the album I BOUGHT.

Since I had spent some time with the record and realized I was starting to dig it I decided to spend the additional $5 and get the special edition off Amazon. It came with special packaging and a DVD, which I didn’t know anything about until I opened it. To my surprise instead of the obligatory (and usually disappointing) DVD content of a special edition Tegan & Sara made a 70 minute documentary about the making of the record. And it’s amazing. (They did a shorter version of this embedded as a digital file on the CD itself for “So Jealous.”) The movie is broken up into “chapters” (which follows the book theme of the artwork and structure of the album) and basically goes through the album from start to finish, track for track, as they record, discuss, and create the music. Not only was this amazing to behold, I am hard pressed to site another example where an artist was so open to exposing themselves, their creative process, and their art in this way.

Getting a glimpse into their process and the birth of this album was simply a revelation. There was a moment when Tegan, with just a guitar, her voice, and one person accompanying her, played her song “the Con” for what appeared to be the first time for the producer and others working on the record. In essence it was the rawest example of the artist and their art and I am not ashamed to say that it made me cry. It is moments like these that speak to all that music means to me, all the emotion and personal weight that a melody, voice, and lyrics can hold. It was hands down a beautiful moment and one that has (obviously) stuck with me. Since watching this, I have not been able to put the album down and think it is their finest work. It has everything that I have grown to love about their music, voices, and lyrical complexities… and also pushes their art forward. But this glimpse into their creative process was nothing short of amazing.

Here is Chapter III in which I refer for “The Con” from the DVD:


So, because I think you should see this movie and OWN the packaging with the artwork, written lyrics, & credits, go BUY this album. The extras are good, the music is excellent, and it could be one of the more import records of the year. It could be the year for these twin Canadian lesbians. (And yet I hate myself a little for feeling the need to mention that, but a spin is a spin.) I think that artists need to look at Tegan & Sara and their model of being working artists. While they are indie, and do not have presumably the paycheck of say Rihanna, they are most likely making a comfortable living and in my mind the “right” way. They had a modest budget for the record (I’ve heard $50,000, in comparison the Guns and Roses debacle that is Chinese Democracy STILL isn’t out after over a decade in the making and has cost upwards of $13 Million) have created product that is worth buying, and have set up an extensive tour in which to further build their fan base (they did the same for “So Jealous”) and also make them, eh-hem… money.

In closing I will address one last point on the role of the musician in society and how I truly feel they should be compensated monetarily. I do think that an artist that creates a piece of art and releases it, as well all the people that put it together and get it out there, should be compensated for their efforts. Now, do I think they should be getting millions of dollars for this? No. While I don’t argue that creating an album is in fact ‘work’ I can not understand why someone should be paid an unbelievable amount for this. You are getting to work on your art full-time AND are being paid for it. You are getting the chance to be surrounded by gifted talented people with creative minds, and you are living, as I would assume, your personal dream. Now, what you SHOULD get paid for, and maybe a lot depending on what you’re putting out there is touring. Touring is, despite whatever rock star conveniences you may be afforded, serious work. It is physically draining, and a lot to put yourself out there for a crowd… no matter if it’s 100 people or 100,000 people. I also have no issue with an artist making money on merchandise. Should a t-shirt be $60? Maybe not… but I pay that as a token of my memory of the event. That’s cool with me.

What the internet has done is put some control into the hands of the people. Information and ideas are able to be communicated, sent, and discussed in ways that have never been possible thus far in the history of the earth. In the world of the music business, yes it has taken some small joys out of the process for me, but that is because I allow it. It also has put a bit of a dent into artists and industry types from making a killing off the public, the audience, and those that actually buy the music… you know, the ones that make their careers exist. In the end I don’t feel bad about this. One thing I learned in my brief stint in “the business” is that those in the business don’t even buy the product themselves. “Friends” from other labels will routinely send all the latest product to others and vice versa. Can’t these music fans understand that another music fan also would like to enjoy the benefits of getting to absorb other music without going broke as well?

But go out and buy Tegan & Sara’s new record. They deserve it and so do you.

Enjoy.

Here is the video for first single “Back in Your Head”

Jimmy

Song: Jimmy
Artist: M.I.A.
Album: Kala



I’ve been eagerly awaiting M.I.A.’s sophomore album for some time and it is finally arriving on August 21st here in the states. Songs from “Kala” have been coming in spurts on M.I.A.’s MySpace page as leaked here and there. Officially, the first single is “Boyz” an upbeat jam that can be currently purchased on iTunes. This surprises me as “Bird Flu” has been on her MySpace page along with the video for some time and seemed like it was first single material. (While I like “Boyz” “Bird Flu” is much more immediate.) More curious still is the announcement that “Jimmy” will be the second single and again not “Bird Flu.”

“Jimmy” is a great track though, and unlike anything M.I.A. has done before. It is a cover of sorts of the song "Jimmy Jimmy Aja" from the 1982 Bollywood film “Disco Dancer.” You can hear the Indian influence but it also has some serious vintage disco strings and the now predictably unpredictable M.I.A. insane vocal flourishes. It’s an odd song, but I immediately loved it, though as a single I’m not so sure. We’ll see.

My opinion on the rest of “Kala,” based on a few listens, is pretty positive. There are songs that sound like good tracks that she didn’t put on debut “Arular” (“XR2”) as well as exciting new terrain like “20 Dollar,” an atmospheric freak-out that nabs the chorus from the Pixies “Where is My Mind?” She worked with a slew of producers for the record, most notably Timbaland who contributes only the so-so “Come Around” that ends the album and which was previously released on the U.K. version of his “Shock Value” (though not on the U.S. version.)

M.I.A. may be an acquired taste but it must be said, with an onslaught of cookie-cutter pop, hip-hop, and rock out there she is a true original and when first hearing these songs I immediately thought they were just very “M.I.A.-ish.” And that to me is a true artist.

Enjoy.

I must admit that I have not seen one Bollywood film though I know of the sub-genre and its popularity. Given this, the below clip of the aforementioned “Jimmy Jimmy Aja” from “Disco Dancer” is the hands down craziest thing I’ve seen today and will put money down on the fact that it will be to you as well. Whoa nelly, what is happening in this scene? She seems to be completely bewitching this dude (and her audience.) And look at his piercing stare… crazy! I am also not sure why she gets so angry with him.

Jimmy, Jimmy, Jimmy, Aja, Aja, Aja!

Can't Believe a Single Word

Song: Can't Believe a Single Word
Artist: VHS or Beta
Album: Bring on the Comets



Here was a killer surprise, thanks to a random blog I learned that one of my favorite new bands from the past couple years have a new album coming out at the end of this month. VHS or Beta will release their third full length album “Bring on the Comets” on August 28th. I’ve gotten to listen to the record for two days now and it seems to be the record they have been building up to since their inception. Their debut, “Le Funk” was an instrumental Daft Punk homage, and for their sophomore record, “Night on Fire” they added Cure-like 80’s disco rock and vocals on about half the tracks. This is where I fell in love. They opened for the Scissor Sisters in New York one time when I saw them and I have been a fan since. “Bring on the Comets” might be their defining moment, ditching the instrumentals (aside from the minute-long first track) and writing some killer dance rock that, fingers crossed, will garner the exposure this band deserves.

I am still absorbing the record but have found a couple of off-the-bat treasures that remind me of their best work on “Night on Fire.” This record isn’t a new direction; it’s a focusing of their sound. I wanted to pick a song that really grabbed me and immediately it was “Can't Believe a Single Word.” Lo and behold, it’s the first single! (I should really work in A & R I tell ya.) The song is their trademark guitar-based dance rock. The drums and beats are just as important as the riffs and I guarantee that after a listen or three you will be bopping along if not singing along. It’s not as anthemic as the title track from “Night on Fire” but it’s a great song.

So excited to hear some new VHS or Beta, welcome back boys!

Enjoy.

No videos yet from the new record, but check out some from “Night on Fire” an album you SHOULD own.

Night on Fire:


You Got Me:

Everybody's Changing

Song: Everybody's Changing
Artist: Keane
Album: Hopes & Fears



I don’t know why but I just can’t get onboard 100% with Keane. As I’ve mentioned in the past, when I first heard their breakthrough single “Somewhere Only We Know” I was convinced it was another band covering Travis. While “Hopes and Fears” their debut was an enormous hit in the U.K. and around Europe I, like many people, saw them as just another Coldplay. And while I didn’t really love Coldplay’s latest, “A Rush of Blood to the Head” is a masterpiece and maybe the best we can expect from this type of piano based balladry.

In their attempt to go a little edgy, Keane released “Is It Any Wonder?” a U2-like rocker that I thought was quite good. The rest of their sophomore album “Under the Iron Sea” was bland with a capital BLA. I went back to thinking they were over rated bores from Snore City.

Now, thanks to the ever-working Lily Allen and my almost fanatic devotion to just about everything she does, I have discovered another Keane song I rather dig. As a b-side of her new single “Alfie” Lily takes the band’s “Everybody’s Changing” and turns it into a reggae-lite, laid back, bon-bon of a song. Since I didn’t know the song, I thought we had just another above average b-side from the ever-working Allen but after some research I found it was a Keane cover, that it was in fact a single for them, and I actually randomly had it in my iTunes. I’ve listened to it a couple times and think it is rather beautiful. A Keane surprise!

I should also note that there is a killer remix of Alfie by CSS on her single as well, bringing the track to a more sexy dancefloor ready territory. She is just releasing single after single and working with some of the best people in the biz. I still am crazy about her Dizzee Rascal duet “Wannabe” from his new record, and this month finds the release of another duet with Common on his latest called “Drivin’ Me Wild.”

I’ve read that also has an unreleased cover of Blondie’s “Heart of Glass” that I’ve yet to hear but for now I am happy to have her make me discover another good Keane track and will try my best not to be so judgmental. The dude had to go to rehab after all which is pretty gangster. (I’m kidding, don’t do drugs.) This song isn’t new or even obscure at all but it just goes to show you that no matter how much you pay attention, things can slip through the cracks. And that logic can be applied to a lot of things in life, not just a music nut like myself.

Enjoy.

The video for “Everybody’s Changing”


Lily singing the song:


And Lily’s funtabulous new video for “Alfie”


And well, speaking of… here is good ol’ Lily performing “Heart of Glass” with Blondie on the today show:

Pow Wow

Song: Pow Wow
Artist: Corey Daye
Album: Pow Wow




Speaking of disco, here is a genuine disco gem you might not know. “Pow Wow” by former Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band vocalist Corey Daye, is an immediately joyful, utterly ridiculous record that you (and your feet) will have a hard time resisting. Mixing a broken heart with, well… sparking up, Corey Daye’s “Pow Wow” is one of two major hits the singer recorded (along with “Green Light”) found on her only solo album.

I thank my good friend Ray for introducing me to this song via some killer disco mixes he made me. (This one entitled “Crisco Disco”… nasty!) Again, another reminder that within the world of music, it is impossible to know it all and there are still untold gems out there awaiting to be discovered. Oh wow!

Something I didn’t know from my research… Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band’s song “Sunshowers” has been sampled by A Tribe Called Quest, Ghostface Killer, De La Soul, Doug E. Fresh, and was the basis of the M.I.A. single of the same name.

Enjoy.

See Miss Daye work it out with Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band:

Hot!

Music Sounds Better With You

Song: Music Sounds Better With You
Artist: Stardust
Album: Music Sounds Better With You





In the world of dance music, specifically more techno/house beat-heavy song, it is rare that a track becomes officially a classic. Dance music can, actually mostly will, become dated in as fast as a year. L.A. Style’s birth-of-techno hit “James Brown is Dead” was mind-blowing in 1991 and seems almost childlike-goofy now. But, I am a huge advocate and supporter of dance music and will argue for its legitimacy in the over-all realm of music.

“Dance music” as we’ve come to know it really began with the birth of disco, possibly the most maligned genre to have come, gone, and come back again in pop history. During the 70’s disco was king, and due to garbage joke tracks like “Disco Duck” and the growing conservatism in the U.S., disco died. Now that dance music has officially come back and house, techno, and even modern day rap and R & B use elements of disco. It is important to go back and hear just how forward thinking and well… MODERN some of this now 30+ year-old music is. Without disco there would have been no New Wave, and I challenge anyone to listen to a track like Donna Summer’s “I Feel Love” and not be blown away by Giorgio Moroder’s production and damn near “from-the-future” vibe it has. Amazing, even today.

But I’m not really qualified to write a history of disco, I just really want to highlight a not so old, but old enough track that still sounds remarkably fresh. Stardust’s 1998 single “Music Sounds Better With You.” The only song that Stardust would do, it was the collaboration of French House pioneer Alan Braxe, vocalist Benjamin Diamond, and Thomas Bangalter, who would later become one half of Daft Punk. Diamond ended up releasing the amazing “Strange Attitude” LP which I can not recommend more, and then two years ago released the more pop oriented “Out of Myself” which I though was awful.

Braxe’s production work in the French House scene is by now legendary and all of his singles with partner Fred Falke were collected in 2005 on “The Upper Cuts” by Alan Braxe & Friends. It’s a great collection, perfect for a groovy lounge party… I highly recommend it. “Music Sounds Better With You” is thankfully included and is a must for any dance connoisseur… and those that love them. Also worth tracking down is a great mash-up called “Music Sounds Better on Holiday” which mixes in Madonna’s “Holiday” to dizzying ear candy heights. Put that on and watch any party be kicked up to ten. But you can’t touch the original.

Braxe is currently mostly on demand as a remixer (often working with Falke) and I highly recommend his re-working of Annie’s “Heartbeat” and Goldfrapp’s “Number 1” Hot.

Enjoy.

The Michel Gondry directed video:

Iron Lion Zion

Song: Iron Lion Zion
Artist: Bob Marley
Album: Iron Lion Zion





A friend and I were recently discussing Bob Marley, his legend, greatness, etc. and I realized that I don’t know his catalog that well. But I also got thinking about him as an artist and putting him in the context of 2007. While not a huge reggae fan, I was really taken with Bob’s son Stephen’s debut album “Mind Control” that came out earlier this year. He’s almost vocally a dead ringer for his father and while his music balances between classic reggae and updated hip hop, I still found it to sound very classic, or timeless. In the vein of “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” or Common’s recent records.

What struck me was thinking about how positive Bob’s music was and how little of that exists today. The optimism and “one love” vibe of his music is sadly something of the past. We have gotten too use to pessimism and abject irony. But… as a positive guy I do not give up hope! And know that the earth is ready for a re-birth of such, and there has got to be the musician out there that will spearhead this. Could you please stand up?

While “Legend,” the definitive single-disc hits collection, is an absolute MUST for any music fan (if you are to have just ONE reggae album, that should be it) I am sure there are many riches within the Marley canon to be found. Specifically, I remember this track, “Iron Lion Zion” being released around 1992, posthumously, that had a found-footage music video released and played on Alternative Nation or 120 Minutes way back in MTV’s pre-decade old history. It’s a great track, and I am sure there are much more like it to discover.

What’s your favorite Marley track?

Enjoy.

Gotta love YouTube… found that video:

Chick Habit

Song: Chick Habit
Artist: April March
Album: Quentin Tarantino's Death Proof




I’m a pretty big Quentin Tarantino fan, have dug the majority of his films since “Reservoir Dogs” and also have great respect for the soundtracks he builds for his movies. While “Death Proof,” half of the double feature “Grindhouse” from this year, may be my least favorite of his films, once again the music he picked was top notch.

I recently heard both “Flowers on the Wall” by the Statler Brothers and “Miserlou” from Dick Dale & His Deltones and immediately thought of “Pulp Fiction” and the scenes the songs were placed in. I often find music has just that power, when played at the right moment either in film or real life… the song becomes married to the memory, either the image you see or the feeling you get. Just another example of the power of music.

“Death Proof” is no exception and the closing credits tune “Chick Habit” by April March is once again that just perfect fit. The film is cast mostly with women, bad-ass women to be specific, and the 60’s girl-group vibe fits with the memory of the film. The song is actually from 1995, which I found after some research, as I had convinced myself this was some lost nugget from the 60’s. Also, it is a bit of a remake, based on the Serge Gainsbourg penned song “Laisse Tomber Les Filles” as sung by France Gall (see below.) April March did a straight cover in French, and then penned English lyrics for this version. March is a bit of a music eccentric as well, singing mostly in French by way of New England. She’s also a cartoon animator and has worked on a variety of shows and movies including “Ren & Stimpy” and the Madonna disaster “Who’s That Girl.”

The rest of the “Death Proof” soundtrack is recommended. It’s one obscure song after another all pretty good. Another favorite is the sexy “Baby, It’s You” by Smith, which is actually a Shirelles cover.

Enjoy.


The trailer to “Death Proof”


Laisse Tomber Les Filles


A video of sorts with “Death Proof” footage

My Piano

Song: My Piano
Artist: Hot Chip
Album: DJ Kicks



While we wait for the new Hot Chip record, due out sometime this year, I have been enjoying their only new song officially released, “My Piano.” The song is taken from their DJ Kicks compilation that was released earlier this year. It is a fun little ditty, built on (duh) a killer piano vamp that runs throughout the song.

Their new record is supposed to be a bit more organic, recorded live and featuring less loops. I sort of like Hot Chip as they are, but I will hold off judgment until I actually hear some of the new music. Though while the loops may be gone, new track “I Became a Volunteer,” which can be heard on their MySpace Page, is totally Hot Chip. Long live geek techno!

Enjoy!

The video for “Over & Over”


And my favorite Hot Chip tune, “Boy From School”

Hold On

Song: Hold On
Artist: KT Tunstall
Album: Drastic Fantastic



When I first heard “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” by KT Tunstall I was pretty taken. It became, mostly through word of mouth, a huge success and rocketed KT’s debut “Eye to the Telescope” to the top of the charts in the UK. She also found success in America, and got some needed exposure when Katherine McPhee performed an on the floor sexed-up version of the song during the 5th season of American Idol.

Unfortunately I was a little disappointed with the debut as a whole, finding nothing as gripping as “Black Horse,” and some of it downright boring. But, I do think she is a talented songwriter and I’m very interested in what she does for her follow up. Lead single from the new album “Drastic Fantastic,” due in September, “Hold On” is another slice of up-beat blues-folk rock. She doesn’t mess with the formula, and again while not as arresting as “Black Horse” it still packs a punch and is immediately enjoyable.

“Drastic Fantastic” has such a crazy cover, it looks like she’s recorded a disco-metal record. A, e-hem, drastic change from the folk-chick look she sported on the debut. Could she have some interesting tricks up her sleeve?

Enjoy.

Here is a clip of the tune live on Today:


And the video for “Back Horse and the Cherry Tree”

Fall For You

Song: Fall for You
Artist: Kylie Minogue
Album: White Diamond?




Recently, new tracks from Kylie Minogue’s eagerly awaited 10th studio album, the follow up to 2003’s “Body Language,” were leaked to the Internet. Many have suspected that this is a marketing ploy to build early buzz for the album, which the label said was ridiculous. Regardless if they were stolen, leaked on purpose, or done in error… we have new Kylie to talk about people!

While not confirmed yet, the album is rumored to be titled “White Diamond” (I can’t believe this) or Kylie X (for her 10th album, which I also can’t really believe.) She is working once again with the Scissor Sisters and electro newcomer Calvin Harris, as well as Groove Armada and Boy George. It has also been said that she has done a LOT of songs with a LOT of people all in the hopes to make a huge comeback after her bout with cancer. (Though, after a successful greatest hits double disc, and the recent news that home girl made 4.5 million quid last year despite being sick, I’m not sure what she has to comeback from.) She hopes to have her first single blow “Can’t get You Out of My Head” out of the water… not a small task as that still remains her biggest world-wide hit to date.

Of the five songs that I heard, I am pretty certain that they are not completely mixed and possibly demos. None of them sound very Scissor Sister or Groove Armada-like to me, and none have the immediate pop charms of “Can’t Get You” but after all, this is Kylie… and I sort of worship everything she does. “Fall For You” has some crazy noises peppered throughout and is so high energy it dares you not to bop along. “In My Arms” is also a favorite, could be the Calvin Harris track with it’s 80’s-esque electro vibe, and fits right in with Kylie’s recent sex-kitten yet innocent thing she’s been working for her past three records. The others are more current sounding electro-pop, not totally mind blowing, but very enjoyable.

Time will tell if these are final versions that will end up on the album, or if they are just teasers and not on the record at all. (THAT would be hot) We’ll see.

Enjoy.

Here is a clip of her performing the song “White Diamond,” also rumored for the new record:


A few great Kylie videos:

Slow


Come into My World


Love At First Sight

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!?!?