Lily Allen's second cd has come out just as Lily decided to share her occasionally controversial opinions on a variety of issues/people/world events. Funny how that happens. Lily's been away for awhile and the world is awash with sound-a-like female singers so she needs to step up her game.
'Everyone's at it' starts off the cd with a preachy song about how everyone is doing drugs (both illegal and legal) which is largely annoying in content but her voice sounds as good as ever. 'The Fear' was the first single and is a return to form and is a great catchy pop song about celebrity culture. 'Not Fair' is a song about not being satisfied by a boyfriend in bed and bounces along like a country hoedown. '22' addresses the unfairness about being 30 and society viewing you as being on the scrapheap. Lily has a good turn of phrase but sometimes her songs feel like they are trying too hard. She works best when her songs sound effortless, skipping along lightly with good turns of phrase and not too many 'mockney' vocals. 'Back to the start' feels like a Kate Nash song and is merely okay. 'Never gonna happen' is Lily addressing her ex saying he needs to let her go and is one of the weaker songs on the cd. 'Fuck you' is based around what sounds like 'Raindrops keep falling on my head' and has naughty words on it. 'Who'd have known' is a rip-off/pastiche of the Take That song 'Shine' and is quite lovely in spite of/because of it. The line in it that "even though it's moving forward, its just the right side of awkward" is one of my favourite on the cd. 'Chinese' is about the feeling of being in a relationship and enjoying the small pleasures involved in spending a quiet weekend together. 'Him' is Lily speculating about what God is like and mentions the 9/11 terrorist attacks which despite a couple of clever lines doesn't quite work.
I think this is a good second cd with Lily trying to find her voice a bit more and her vocals not being quite so forced. Some of her 'issue' based songs don't work well but there are a few good songs on here. Still much better than her ITV show.
My Lily Allen anecdote involves me going to Argos to buy a barbeque for work and seeing a few paparazzi (paparazzo?) outside the shop waiting for someone and me looking around trying to figure out who they were waiting for. I thought it might have been her but wasn't really sure. Poor Lily was only trying to buy some kind of lawnmower but ended up in the paper with a few quotes about 'grass'. It must mess you up at least a little bit even if you do court the press to further your career from time to time.
Sunday, 1 March 2009
Friday, 27 February 2009
U2 - No line on the horizon
U2 were one of my favourite bands what seems like many years ago. They aren't anymore and haven't been for awhile. It is too easy to take the piss out of Bono and his attempts to make the world a better place so I won't bother.
'No line on the horizon's title track opens up their latest release with a distinctly average but fairly plain pop/rock tune. 'Magnificent' sounds like a cross between something from their Zooropa era and their earliest releases. The Edge's distinctive ringing guitars are in place and Bono doesn't go too over the top making me want to re-listen to their 'War' cd. 'Moment of Surrender' is a 7 minute plus ballad which is about 5 minutes too long for my liking. 'Unknown Caller' sounds like an Unforgettable Fire outtake and isn't too bad for it. 'I'll go crazy if i don't go crazy tonight' feels like a song by Meatloaf but is actually weirdly alright.
'Get on your boots' is U2 at their daftest with the 'sexy boots' line and to make their lyrics sound like REM's 'its the end of the world as you know it..' and have a disco-y rock vibe behind it. Really not pretty for 4 men who must be pushing 50 by now. 'Stand up comedy' doesn't really work either but isn't quite as embarassing. 'FEZ-being born' start off woozy and turns into a fairly good song. 'White as snow' is Bono at his starkest on the cd with a simple ballad. One of the better tracks on the cd. 'Breathe' is their biggest sounding rock song on here and makes me think of the band the Killers and is neither good nor bad.
The lyrics remain as daft as ever and they'll never reach their earlier creative peaks but its good to have them around if only for the promotion of World Peace (and an occasional okay song).
'No line on the horizon's title track opens up their latest release with a distinctly average but fairly plain pop/rock tune. 'Magnificent' sounds like a cross between something from their Zooropa era and their earliest releases. The Edge's distinctive ringing guitars are in place and Bono doesn't go too over the top making me want to re-listen to their 'War' cd. 'Moment of Surrender' is a 7 minute plus ballad which is about 5 minutes too long for my liking. 'Unknown Caller' sounds like an Unforgettable Fire outtake and isn't too bad for it. 'I'll go crazy if i don't go crazy tonight' feels like a song by Meatloaf but is actually weirdly alright.
'Get on your boots' is U2 at their daftest with the 'sexy boots' line and to make their lyrics sound like REM's 'its the end of the world as you know it..' and have a disco-y rock vibe behind it. Really not pretty for 4 men who must be pushing 50 by now. 'Stand up comedy' doesn't really work either but isn't quite as embarassing. 'FEZ-being born' start off woozy and turns into a fairly good song. 'White as snow' is Bono at his starkest on the cd with a simple ballad. One of the better tracks on the cd. 'Breathe' is their biggest sounding rock song on here and makes me think of the band the Killers and is neither good nor bad.
The lyrics remain as daft as ever and they'll never reach their earlier creative peaks but its good to have them around if only for the promotion of World Peace (and an occasional okay song).
Thursday, 12 February 2009
J Mascis - Live at CBGBs
J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr released this acoustic live cd from the recently defunct 'legendary' CGBGs in 1993. Dinosaur Jr has always been well known for their very loud performances so it is interesting to hear more of the subtlety in their music as he performs it acoustically. 'Thumb' from Green Mind is great - full of fragility and J's lovely cracked voice. J. Mascis' drawl works wonders on 'Not you again'. Another Green Mind track ' Flying Cloud' doesn't differ much from the Dinosaur Jr version but reminds me again why I loved that cd so much. 'Every mother's son' is a Lynrd Skynrd cover which suits J.'s Neil Young like vocals well. 'Get me' is another highlight and again shows how underrated Dinosaur Jr's songwriting is. 'Quest' is a great song and this live version improves upon the original. 'On the Run' is a Greg Sage (of the Wipers) cover which J. makes his own. 'Repulsion', the final encore works very well acoustically and brings to an end his first acoustic gig on a high note.
The songs are catchy and full of hooks and sound even better on some occasions than the much heavier band versions by Dinosaur Jr. J. Mascis has a love it or hate it voice but his ability to right songs which stick in your head for weeks makes him an indie treasure.
The songs are catchy and full of hooks and sound even better on some occasions than the much heavier band versions by Dinosaur Jr. J. Mascis has a love it or hate it voice but his ability to right songs which stick in your head for weeks makes him an indie treasure.
Tuesday, 10 February 2009
The Clash - Live at Shea Stadium
The Clash were always a band of contradictions because of the mix of personalities involved and their changing ideologies. 'Live at Shea Stadium' is a recording of a gig in the U.S. in 1982 and comes as the band were starting to fall apart. The sound isn't bad considering it was a stadium show and they were the opening band for The Who. '
'The Guns of Brixton' is a bit too fast for my liking. 'Tommy Gun' is ferocious and builds nicely towards a flailing ending. 'London Calling' and 'Police on my back' are great as well. 'Magnificent 7' is okay but doesn't have the slight weirdness it has on cd. It segues into 'Armagideon Time' before returning to 'Magnificent 7'. 'Train in vain' sounds as lovely as ever even in a stadium of largely indifferent fans. The live version of 'Career Opportunities' stays short, sharp and full of anger. 'Clampdown' is stretched out which works well in the live setting. 'English Civil War' is okay - i've never thought it was one of their best songs anyway. 'Should I stay of should i go' gets a positive crowd reaction and is played near the end of the gig - a brilliant piece of pop/rock and it ends as chaotically as it should. 'i fought the law' ends the cd (and the gig?) and is another great sing-a-long song.
As with most bands playing stadiums some of the edges are rougher live and something is inevitably lost but the energy of The Clash make this a pretty decent live recording of a band nearing the end of its peak. Still one of the few bands that really mattered! Just ask my son who he likes almost as much as the Tweenies.
'The Guns of Brixton' is a bit too fast for my liking. 'Tommy Gun' is ferocious and builds nicely towards a flailing ending. 'London Calling' and 'Police on my back' are great as well. 'Magnificent 7' is okay but doesn't have the slight weirdness it has on cd. It segues into 'Armagideon Time' before returning to 'Magnificent 7'. 'Train in vain' sounds as lovely as ever even in a stadium of largely indifferent fans. The live version of 'Career Opportunities' stays short, sharp and full of anger. 'Clampdown' is stretched out which works well in the live setting. 'English Civil War' is okay - i've never thought it was one of their best songs anyway. 'Should I stay of should i go' gets a positive crowd reaction and is played near the end of the gig - a brilliant piece of pop/rock and it ends as chaotically as it should. 'i fought the law' ends the cd (and the gig?) and is another great sing-a-long song.
As with most bands playing stadiums some of the edges are rougher live and something is inevitably lost but the energy of The Clash make this a pretty decent live recording of a band nearing the end of its peak. Still one of the few bands that really mattered! Just ask my son who he likes almost as much as the Tweenies.
Monday, 9 February 2009
The Streets - Everything is Borrowed
'Everything is Borrowed' is The Streets fourth cd and could be one of his last as Mike Skinner has said that he will stop recording as The Streets fairly soon. His last release before this was not very good and he is a long way off the peak of his first cd 'Original Pirate Material' which was a fantastic piece of cut up home-made music. 'Everything is Borrowed' is the first song on the cd and feels like a return to earlier form. It wouldn't be out of place on his second cd. 'Heaven for the weather' has an upbeat backing track and appropriately gospel sounding back up vocals.
Mike Skinner's mix of speaking and sort of singing is the kind of thing that can cause annoyance in a lot of people. He isn't as exciting or innovative as he was initally but he still has a good turn of phrase and the music is catchy.
'I love you (more than you like me)' is witty and has a great set of lines about drawing a picture of a woman after he met her and the realisation that 'it was absolutely shit, i'm awful at drawing'. 'The way of the Dodo' is a rubbish song about environmental issues. To be fair I can't think of any good songs about the environment. 'On the flip of a coin' is Mike trying to tell a story about a dad trying to instill strength in his son. It doesn't quite work as it seems a bit forced. 'On the edge of a cliff' passes me by without making much impression.
'Never give in' has a funky background beat as does 'The sherry end'. Decent songs but not interesting enough. 'The strongest person I know' is a lovely little song. 'The Escapist' is in a similar vein as 'Dry your eyes' and although one of the better songs on the cd it isn't quite as good as it is.
Apparently this cd was going to be fully based around parables but he ditched a lot of them as he didn't think it would work. Much better than his last one but nothing to quite match some of his earlier heights.
Mike Skinner's mix of speaking and sort of singing is the kind of thing that can cause annoyance in a lot of people. He isn't as exciting or innovative as he was initally but he still has a good turn of phrase and the music is catchy.
'I love you (more than you like me)' is witty and has a great set of lines about drawing a picture of a woman after he met her and the realisation that 'it was absolutely shit, i'm awful at drawing'. 'The way of the Dodo' is a rubbish song about environmental issues. To be fair I can't think of any good songs about the environment. 'On the flip of a coin' is Mike trying to tell a story about a dad trying to instill strength in his son. It doesn't quite work as it seems a bit forced. 'On the edge of a cliff' passes me by without making much impression.
'Never give in' has a funky background beat as does 'The sherry end'. Decent songs but not interesting enough. 'The strongest person I know' is a lovely little song. 'The Escapist' is in a similar vein as 'Dry your eyes' and although one of the better songs on the cd it isn't quite as good as it is.
Apparently this cd was going to be fully based around parables but he ditched a lot of them as he didn't think it would work. Much better than his last one but nothing to quite match some of his earlier heights.
Sunday, 8 February 2009
ABBA - Super Trouper
My wife has requested that I review an ABBA cd so have decided to listen to 'Super Trouper' their 7th album which came out in 1980. ABBA feels like a teflon band. They are omnipresent. There songs are everywhere and Mamma Mia has probably made about 50 billion from the stage and film versions. How can you really not like them when they've released so many delicious pop confections? Especially if you are female or possibly gay. (Is it okay to say this?)
'Super Trouper' is the first song on the cd and irresistably catchy with the ladies vocal harmonies being the focus. 'The Winner takes it all' is next and completes a strong 1-2 punch. It is a song which is meant to be sung in the shower or into your hairbrush. 'Andante, Andante' is a ballad which feels like a b-side to one of their better songs. A lot of the songs use synthesizers heavily as a base for their music. 'Me and I' is a pleasant enough pop song with good vocal harmonies from the ladies including some brief vocodered ones. 'Happy New Year' feels full of melancholy despite the perhaps ironic title. ABBA are good at making light music with occasional touches of sadness. 'Our Last Summer' was used in Mamma Mia and is okay but doesn't really ever build into anything much apart from again having strong vocals. 'The Piper' sounds like something which is meant for the theatrical stage but isn't a very interesting track. 'Lay all your love on me' is another song which stands out because it is a little more upbeat than a lot of the cd. 'The way old friends do' is a torch song ballad that ends the cd and it feels a bit like 'Auld Lang Syne' or something Vera Lynn might have done.
There is a recognisable 80's feeling to the music but most of the songs have aged well. The singles are the strongest songs on it and your best bet might be to just pick up one of the many greatest hits cd out there.
'Super Trouper' is the first song on the cd and irresistably catchy with the ladies vocal harmonies being the focus. 'The Winner takes it all' is next and completes a strong 1-2 punch. It is a song which is meant to be sung in the shower or into your hairbrush. 'Andante, Andante' is a ballad which feels like a b-side to one of their better songs. A lot of the songs use synthesizers heavily as a base for their music. 'Me and I' is a pleasant enough pop song with good vocal harmonies from the ladies including some brief vocodered ones. 'Happy New Year' feels full of melancholy despite the perhaps ironic title. ABBA are good at making light music with occasional touches of sadness. 'Our Last Summer' was used in Mamma Mia and is okay but doesn't really ever build into anything much apart from again having strong vocals. 'The Piper' sounds like something which is meant for the theatrical stage but isn't a very interesting track. 'Lay all your love on me' is another song which stands out because it is a little more upbeat than a lot of the cd. 'The way old friends do' is a torch song ballad that ends the cd and it feels a bit like 'Auld Lang Syne' or something Vera Lynn might have done.
There is a recognisable 80's feeling to the music but most of the songs have aged well. The singles are the strongest songs on it and your best bet might be to just pick up one of the many greatest hits cd out there.
Saturday, 7 February 2009
The Ting Tings - We started nothing
The Ting Tings are Jules DeMartino and Katie Price, an English duo who had been in a few bands before forming the Ting Tings in 2004. Their first cd is this one which came out in 2008 after building up some hype from various radio programs and gigs.
The music on the cd is uptempo party pop with catchy, singalong, sometimes shouty choruses. It is a mixed bag and depending on my mood for the day I would possibly find either quite fun or really irritating.
'That's not my name' is probably the best song on here but the problem for me is overexposure. It was such a prevalent song on radio, TV programs and generally just in the ether that it loses its enjoyability. Still great fun to invent verses and to shout the chorus. 'Shut up and let me go',another single slithers along nicely. 'We walk' is another good song with a very 80's feel to the vocals. 'Impacilla Carpisung' with its synth and 'can we hit it..' lyrics sounds even more dated as an 80s track. Weaker tracks are 'Traffic Light', 'Fruit Machine' and 'be the one' just aren't very memorable and don't have the necessary hook to make much of an impact.
The music sometimes works well with just the two members and other times it feels like it could have been better with more flesh on its bones. Considering they've been together for 4 years before the cd came out it could have had a few more memorable tracks but they've got at least one that'll end up 'Now thats what I call whatever the 2000s will be known as' compilations and should allow them to afford the large size options at McDonalds in the future.
The music on the cd is uptempo party pop with catchy, singalong, sometimes shouty choruses. It is a mixed bag and depending on my mood for the day I would possibly find either quite fun or really irritating.
'That's not my name' is probably the best song on here but the problem for me is overexposure. It was such a prevalent song on radio, TV programs and generally just in the ether that it loses its enjoyability. Still great fun to invent verses and to shout the chorus. 'Shut up and let me go',another single slithers along nicely. 'We walk' is another good song with a very 80's feel to the vocals. 'Impacilla Carpisung' with its synth and 'can we hit it..' lyrics sounds even more dated as an 80s track. Weaker tracks are 'Traffic Light', 'Fruit Machine' and 'be the one' just aren't very memorable and don't have the necessary hook to make much of an impact.
The music sometimes works well with just the two members and other times it feels like it could have been better with more flesh on its bones. Considering they've been together for 4 years before the cd came out it could have had a few more memorable tracks but they've got at least one that'll end up 'Now thats what I call whatever the 2000s will be known as' compilations and should allow them to afford the large size options at McDonalds in the future.
Friday, 6 February 2009
Diplo - Decent work for decent pay
Diplo is a popular and revered D.J, producer and remixer who has spread his magical touch across a variety of genres including rock, hip hop and baile funk. The 'Paper planes' remix doesn't work as well as the original M.I.A song which uses the Clash sample to such great effect to create such a clever, subversive piece of music. The Spank Rock remix is a dirty, grunting effort which fits their music well. I felt I needed a cold shower after listening to it. 'Reload it' by Kano fits in about 4000 words in a 4 minute song. Very good even if I feel slightly silly listening to it.
Of his own songs, sorry tracks, '200' has a light touch to it and is largely instrumental, 'Smash a Kangaroo' is a politically incorrect piss-take about killing marsupials and macho-ness. 'Percao' has a latin/Spank Rock type vibe to it and is a pretty good song.
'Lets make love to death from above' by CSS is another great song which is only slightly ruined by hearing it so much when it came out. The mix on here improves the song, twisting it further into something even groovier. 'Young Folks' also falls into the category of a song I enjoyed but heard to much. Diplo's mix turns this catchy indie song with whistling middle bit into a funkier beast. The Bonde Do Role song 'Solta O Frango' shakes and shimmies along nicely with it's catchy, although not understandable, vocals and drums. 'Heater' has a fat synthesizer sound which makes me want to take something illegal and go raving (something I have never done and am unlikely to do at my advanced age). 'Shake a fist' by Hot Chip is okay but I've never really felt they were that good so doesn't do a lot for me. The Black Lips remix 'Veni Vidi Vici' slows down the original even more than it already is. It doesn't add much to the song which already isn't one of their best. 'The Whistlerz' by Claude VonStroke isn't very interesting apart from the artist's name which is great.
Overall a mixed bag of remixes and original songs which probably need to be heard in a club to be fully appreciated.
Of his own songs, sorry tracks, '200' has a light touch to it and is largely instrumental, 'Smash a Kangaroo' is a politically incorrect piss-take about killing marsupials and macho-ness. 'Percao' has a latin/Spank Rock type vibe to it and is a pretty good song.
'Lets make love to death from above' by CSS is another great song which is only slightly ruined by hearing it so much when it came out. The mix on here improves the song, twisting it further into something even groovier. 'Young Folks' also falls into the category of a song I enjoyed but heard to much. Diplo's mix turns this catchy indie song with whistling middle bit into a funkier beast. The Bonde Do Role song 'Solta O Frango' shakes and shimmies along nicely with it's catchy, although not understandable, vocals and drums. 'Heater' has a fat synthesizer sound which makes me want to take something illegal and go raving (something I have never done and am unlikely to do at my advanced age). 'Shake a fist' by Hot Chip is okay but I've never really felt they were that good so doesn't do a lot for me. The Black Lips remix 'Veni Vidi Vici' slows down the original even more than it already is. It doesn't add much to the song which already isn't one of their best. 'The Whistlerz' by Claude VonStroke isn't very interesting apart from the artist's name which is great.
Overall a mixed bag of remixes and original songs which probably need to be heard in a club to be fully appreciated.
Thursday, 5 February 2009
Weezer - Weezer (The Red Album)
'Weezer', their sixth full length cd, came out in 2008 and was produced by Rick Rubin. The first song on it is 'Troublemaker' is a typical catchy short song with silly rhymes which is about rebellion and self-belief. 'The Greatest Man that ever lived' is a much stranger proposition with a mix of styles throughout the song including a piano intro, hip hop singing, harmonies and marching band music with a choral group, falsetto voiced big rock parts and spoken word vocals. It is an ambitious mess which almost but doesn't quite work.
'Pork and Beans' was the first single off the cd and it wouldn't be out of place on most of Weezer's earlier cds. It feels a bit like 'Buddy Holly' crossed with 'Beverly Hills' but isn't quite as good as either of those earlier singles.
'Heart songs' is an average ballad about the love of music, whether it be cheesy love songs or metal tunes or Nirvana. 'Everybody get dangerous' is dull. 'Dreamin' buzzes along happily. 'Thought I knew' and 'Cold Dark World' and 'Automatic' don't make leave me with any lasting impressions one way or the other. 'The Angel and the One' starts out sounding like a bruised plea to a lover and builds into something rather special fading away with gentle instrumentation for the final minute of the song. 'The Weight' is an unecessary cover of a great song not really improved by their version of it. 'Life is what you make it' is a Talk Talk cover which I never want to hear again as it ruined the song for me - it isn't terrible but it doesn't touch the original in any way.
Weezer is a band of contradictions-they sometimes write cynical songs and sometimes focus on sincere heartfelt lyrics. Their music veers between harder rock, pop and experimental music and their lyrics are often simple but their lead singer is an academic.
'Weezer' has its moments but there is quite a few weak songs. Weezer has always been a singles band as far as I'm concerned with their cds not being consistently engaging enough.
'Pork and Beans' was the first single off the cd and it wouldn't be out of place on most of Weezer's earlier cds. It feels a bit like 'Buddy Holly' crossed with 'Beverly Hills' but isn't quite as good as either of those earlier singles.
'Heart songs' is an average ballad about the love of music, whether it be cheesy love songs or metal tunes or Nirvana. 'Everybody get dangerous' is dull. 'Dreamin' buzzes along happily. 'Thought I knew' and 'Cold Dark World' and 'Automatic' don't make leave me with any lasting impressions one way or the other. 'The Angel and the One' starts out sounding like a bruised plea to a lover and builds into something rather special fading away with gentle instrumentation for the final minute of the song. 'The Weight' is an unecessary cover of a great song not really improved by their version of it. 'Life is what you make it' is a Talk Talk cover which I never want to hear again as it ruined the song for me - it isn't terrible but it doesn't touch the original in any way.
Weezer is a band of contradictions-they sometimes write cynical songs and sometimes focus on sincere heartfelt lyrics. Their music veers between harder rock, pop and experimental music and their lyrics are often simple but their lead singer is an academic.
'Weezer' has its moments but there is quite a few weak songs. Weezer has always been a singles band as far as I'm concerned with their cds not being consistently engaging enough.
Wednesday, 4 February 2009
Neil Young - Live at Massey Hall 1971
This live concert from Massey Hall in Toronto came out in 2008 as part of his releases of various live gigs over the years. Neil was 26 at the time and this was between the releases of 'After the Gold Rush' and 'Harvest Moon' and was at the peak of his powers.
'Old Man' is classic Neil Young with his great vocals and brilliant lyrics which he introduces by saying it is a song about his ranch. For 'Journey through the past' he introduces the song with the statement that many of the songs at that concert will be new material that he had only recently written. His mention of Canada in the song gets the expected polite applause - typical Canadians. 'Helpless' is a brilliant wailing song and one of my favourite songs of his. Neil combines 'A man needs a maid' with 'Heart of Gold' (his only number one song) in typical stubborn fashion. 'Cowgirl in the sand' is another highlight for me.
Live releases are tricky - do you leave the audience response in? do you leave any mistakes on it or overdub it? 'Live at Massey Hall' does the right thing and leaves in audience noise and Neil's comments/explanations between the songs. It makes you wish you were there to hear this music live as he was creating it.
I certainly never appreciated Neil when I was younger. He always felt like something only older people should listen to with his well aged voice. My appreciation of his maverick style and twists and turns of his musical career and life as well as his beautiful voice has grown as I've become the older person I thought was such a long way away.
'Old Man' is classic Neil Young with his great vocals and brilliant lyrics which he introduces by saying it is a song about his ranch. For 'Journey through the past' he introduces the song with the statement that many of the songs at that concert will be new material that he had only recently written. His mention of Canada in the song gets the expected polite applause - typical Canadians. 'Helpless' is a brilliant wailing song and one of my favourite songs of his. Neil combines 'A man needs a maid' with 'Heart of Gold' (his only number one song) in typical stubborn fashion. 'Cowgirl in the sand' is another highlight for me.
Live releases are tricky - do you leave the audience response in? do you leave any mistakes on it or overdub it? 'Live at Massey Hall' does the right thing and leaves in audience noise and Neil's comments/explanations between the songs. It makes you wish you were there to hear this music live as he was creating it.
I certainly never appreciated Neil when I was younger. He always felt like something only older people should listen to with his well aged voice. My appreciation of his maverick style and twists and turns of his musical career and life as well as his beautiful voice has grown as I've become the older person I thought was such a long way away.
Tuesday, 3 February 2009
Kings of Leon - Only by the Night
Kings of Leon's fourth cd 'Only by the Night' came out in 2008 during a year which somehow cemented their position as one of the bigger bands in the world. They headlined Glastonbury and toured extensively. I've had a soft spot for them based on the last two releases before this one - I never really cared much for their first cd.
'Closer' is the opening track and is a typical brooding, mid paced offering by the band. 'Crawl' has a slight electronic edge and clearer vocals than usual by Caleb Followill but doesn't really do much for me. 'Sex on fire' was the first single and the vocals and guitar make it feel like it could be a song by Canadian band Tragically Hip which is a good thing. 'Use somebody' is a stronger song and it could have been the first single despite verging on Razorlight type territory.
'Revelry' is a good mellow slower paced ballad which I can't decide if I like or loathe after a few listens. 'I want you' is a bit dull and doesn't really go anywhere interesting. 'Cold Desert' is a gentle ballad which ends 'Only by the Night' on a high note.
The songs seem to be written to fill arenas with bigger choruses and more straightforward music. Something has been lost in the translation to a stadium band but there is still a quirkiness to their music which means that they still sound like outsiders. Sometimes it is difficult when you like a band who all of a sudden become more well known and popular because it feels like you've lost something special to you.
Source: Spotify
'Closer' is the opening track and is a typical brooding, mid paced offering by the band. 'Crawl' has a slight electronic edge and clearer vocals than usual by Caleb Followill but doesn't really do much for me. 'Sex on fire' was the first single and the vocals and guitar make it feel like it could be a song by Canadian band Tragically Hip which is a good thing. 'Use somebody' is a stronger song and it could have been the first single despite verging on Razorlight type territory.
'Revelry' is a good mellow slower paced ballad which I can't decide if I like or loathe after a few listens. 'I want you' is a bit dull and doesn't really go anywhere interesting. 'Cold Desert' is a gentle ballad which ends 'Only by the Night' on a high note.
The songs seem to be written to fill arenas with bigger choruses and more straightforward music. Something has been lost in the translation to a stadium band but there is still a quirkiness to their music which means that they still sound like outsiders. Sometimes it is difficult when you like a band who all of a sudden become more well known and popular because it feels like you've lost something special to you.
Source: Spotify
Monday, 2 February 2009
Phosphorescent - Pride
Mathew Houck is the sole member of Phosphorescent. 'Pride' is his third full length release and his first on the Dead Oceans label. 'Pride' should be listened to late at night as it is a dreamy, fragile collection of songs which reach out to you in a cracked, warbling voice. 'Wolves' is a brilliant creaking tune which wouldn't sound out of place on a Bonnie'Prince' Billy release. Matthew Houck's voice and song arrangements sound like a cross between Bon Iver and Bonnie 'Prince' Billy in the best possible way. 'Pride' is a wordless choral song which ends the cd complete with yelping and a campfire vibe. My favourite tracks are 'Wolves', 'A picture of our torn up praise' and 'the waves at night'.
This is a cd which I really liked the first time I heard it but suspect that I will enjoy even more with further listens. Highly recommended if you are a fan of ghostly folk music.
This is a cd which I really liked the first time I heard it but suspect that I will enjoy even more with further listens. Highly recommended if you are a fan of ghostly folk music.
Sunday, 1 February 2009
One Month In / All Request Sundays
So I've managed to keep up (more or less) the daily music reviews for one month and not completely lost it yet. It has been more challenging than I thought it would be but I'm kind of enjoying it and hopefully my reviews will get better and I'll come across more good stuff I can share with anyone checking this out.
I've decided to set aside Sundays as request days and will take on all comers. If you've got something you think I might like to hear let me know.
Thanks for taking the time to read this.
I've decided to set aside Sundays as request days and will take on all comers. If you've got something you think I might like to hear let me know.
Thanks for taking the time to read this.
Cage the Elephant - Cage the Elephant
'Cage the Elephant' is this Kentucky band's first full length cd which came out in mid-2008. I was given a copy for my birthday yesterday from two of my kind and generous friends.
'Ain't no rest for the wicked' was the first single released and is catchy with indie riffs and blues guitar but never really explodes the way I thought it might. 'Tiny little robots' sounds influenced by the View and the Strokes but is not as good as either band. 'Lotus' and 'Back against the wall' try to be as literate as the Arctic Monkeys and use a similar vocal style but fall well short. There are a lot of obvious influences which doesn't have to be a problem but if nothing new is added it makes for quite a generic cd. 'Back stabbing Betty' has a blues-y vibe and uses swear words to try to make it more interesting.
There are a number of bands playing this variety of music and Cage the Elephant don't do enough on their first cd to stand out from the crowd. 'Free Love', the last song on the cd is one of the better ones (along with 'ain't no rest..' and 'James Brown') and it brings it to a frenetic but overall unsatisfactory finish.
Nothing to write home to mom about and although I really appreciate the present they aren't quite interesting enough yet. Thanks to Claire and Dan for all the cds though.
'Ain't no rest for the wicked' was the first single released and is catchy with indie riffs and blues guitar but never really explodes the way I thought it might. 'Tiny little robots' sounds influenced by the View and the Strokes but is not as good as either band. 'Lotus' and 'Back against the wall' try to be as literate as the Arctic Monkeys and use a similar vocal style but fall well short. There are a lot of obvious influences which doesn't have to be a problem but if nothing new is added it makes for quite a generic cd. 'Back stabbing Betty' has a blues-y vibe and uses swear words to try to make it more interesting.
There are a number of bands playing this variety of music and Cage the Elephant don't do enough on their first cd to stand out from the crowd. 'Free Love', the last song on the cd is one of the better ones (along with 'ain't no rest..' and 'James Brown') and it brings it to a frenetic but overall unsatisfactory finish.
Nothing to write home to mom about and although I really appreciate the present they aren't quite interesting enough yet. Thanks to Claire and Dan for all the cds though.
Saturday, 31 January 2009
Various Artists - Guilt by Association
This compilation cd came out in 2007 and has a number of indie musicians covering a variety of pop songs which are either cheesy or classics depending on your mood/drunkeness/level of honesty.
Petra Haden sings 'Don't stop believin' using only vocals to mimic the instruments and vocals of the Journey song to great effect. Petra did something similar to the Who Sell Out album. 'Two tickets to paradise' was orginally a pop rock classic but in Geoff Farina's capable hands it becomes something much more forlorn and lovely. 'Say my name' by Destinys Child becomes an indie rocker courtesy of Superchunk but doesn't improve on the funkiness of the original song. 'Chop Suey' by System of a Down becomes a ballad. 'Don't look back in anger' is covered by Devendra Barnhart and he turns it into a childlike woozy hippy wonder. The Take That song 'Back for Good' is given a Scandinavian makeover courtesy of the Concretes as they make it an even better love song. They don't do such a good job on 'Viva Forever' but still improve on the original.
An uneven, ironic?, set of covers with a few versions improving on or finding new ways of expressing the themes of the originals make this a reasonably good compilation.
Petra Haden sings 'Don't stop believin' using only vocals to mimic the instruments and vocals of the Journey song to great effect. Petra did something similar to the Who Sell Out album. 'Two tickets to paradise' was orginally a pop rock classic but in Geoff Farina's capable hands it becomes something much more forlorn and lovely. 'Say my name' by Destinys Child becomes an indie rocker courtesy of Superchunk but doesn't improve on the funkiness of the original song. 'Chop Suey' by System of a Down becomes a ballad. 'Don't look back in anger' is covered by Devendra Barnhart and he turns it into a childlike woozy hippy wonder. The Take That song 'Back for Good' is given a Scandinavian makeover courtesy of the Concretes as they make it an even better love song. They don't do such a good job on 'Viva Forever' but still improve on the original.
An uneven, ironic?, set of covers with a few versions improving on or finding new ways of expressing the themes of the originals make this a reasonably good compilation.
Friday, 30 January 2009
Indigo Girls - Indigo Girls
Indigo Girls second cd and first on a major record label was this self titled release which came out in 1989. The duo's harmonies and folk-style guitars along with their involvement in grassroots politics and the fact that they are both lesbians made them a popular band with American college students.
'Closer to fine' is the best song on the cd and has members of the band Hothouse Flowers providing backing instruments and vocals and which has great vocals by Amy Ray and Emily Saliers. Michael Stipe of R.E.M provides his typical backing vocals to 'Kid Fears' not adding much to the song.
There seems to be a balance of songwriting and singing within the duo which works well. 'Tried to be true' sounds a bit more country and western than some of the other songs on the cd but most of the music is quite similar and in a folk/rock vein. 'Love's Recovery' is a gentle bruising love song and one of the better songs on it. 'Land of Canaan' is the closest thing to a rocker and not too bad for it. 'Indigo Girls' is a pretty decent cd but too many of the songs don't stand out from one another and 'Closer to fine' is head and shoulders above all the other songs.
Apparently they were nominated for a Grammy for Best New Act but lost out to Milli Vanilli. Not sure if they corrected the Academy corrected their mistake and returned it to a more worthy band. Also according to their website they will be giggin on a tour ship in the Carribbean in spring 2009 playing with other musicians including Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt and other roots/folk/rockers.
Thanks to Jonathan for the request. Sorry I didn't review the live cd.
'Closer to fine' is the best song on the cd and has members of the band Hothouse Flowers providing backing instruments and vocals and which has great vocals by Amy Ray and Emily Saliers. Michael Stipe of R.E.M provides his typical backing vocals to 'Kid Fears' not adding much to the song.
There seems to be a balance of songwriting and singing within the duo which works well. 'Tried to be true' sounds a bit more country and western than some of the other songs on the cd but most of the music is quite similar and in a folk/rock vein. 'Love's Recovery' is a gentle bruising love song and one of the better songs on it. 'Land of Canaan' is the closest thing to a rocker and not too bad for it. 'Indigo Girls' is a pretty decent cd but too many of the songs don't stand out from one another and 'Closer to fine' is head and shoulders above all the other songs.
Apparently they were nominated for a Grammy for Best New Act but lost out to Milli Vanilli. Not sure if they corrected the Academy corrected their mistake and returned it to a more worthy band. Also according to their website they will be giggin on a tour ship in the Carribbean in spring 2009 playing with other musicians including Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt and other roots/folk/rockers.
Thanks to Jonathan for the request. Sorry I didn't review the live cd.
Thursday, 29 January 2009
Spice Girls - Spiceworld
As requested by a 'friend' I will listen and review 'Spiceworld' by the Spice Girls which I believe was the soundtrack to the movie of the same name and came out at the height of their fame in 1997.
'Spice up your life' gets the party started with a tropical upbeat vibe and catchy ridiculous lyrics. Not a bad song. 'Stop' is the second track and uses horns and harmonies to complement the dance which I seem to remember going along with it. A decent enough pop tune and it probably works quite well with the opening track at hen nights all over the world. 'Too much' is a smoochy ballad which is supposed to sound sexy but fails to do so. 'Saturday Night Divas' was never released as a single which marks it out as one of the weaker tracks. 'Never give up on the good times' tries hard to be funky and catchy but doesn't quite work. 'Move over' sounds like it should be used to sell cola of some sort. 'Do it' implores me to do it - not certain what. 'Denying' just passed me by without leaving any kind of lasting impression either way. 'The lady is a vamp' leans towards a Chicago (the musical) kind of feeling but feels too forced. 'Viva Forever' has classical guitar playing and a slightly latin vibe and is an understated ballad which has pleasant vocal harmonies.
Not something I'll likely listen to again of my own free will, but okay for what they were trying to do. Considering it sold something like 20 million copies around the world I'm sure the ladies won't lose any sleep over this review.
In answer to the inevitable questions: Geri 'Ginger' Spice.
'Spice up your life' gets the party started with a tropical upbeat vibe and catchy ridiculous lyrics. Not a bad song. 'Stop' is the second track and uses horns and harmonies to complement the dance which I seem to remember going along with it. A decent enough pop tune and it probably works quite well with the opening track at hen nights all over the world. 'Too much' is a smoochy ballad which is supposed to sound sexy but fails to do so. 'Saturday Night Divas' was never released as a single which marks it out as one of the weaker tracks. 'Never give up on the good times' tries hard to be funky and catchy but doesn't quite work. 'Move over' sounds like it should be used to sell cola of some sort. 'Do it' implores me to do it - not certain what. 'Denying' just passed me by without leaving any kind of lasting impression either way. 'The lady is a vamp' leans towards a Chicago (the musical) kind of feeling but feels too forced. 'Viva Forever' has classical guitar playing and a slightly latin vibe and is an understated ballad which has pleasant vocal harmonies.
Not something I'll likely listen to again of my own free will, but okay for what they were trying to do. Considering it sold something like 20 million copies around the world I'm sure the ladies won't lose any sleep over this review.
In answer to the inevitable questions: Geri 'Ginger' Spice.
Wednesday, 28 January 2009
Scarlett Johannson - Anywhere I lay my head
Is this just another vanity project by an actress/model/UN ambassador type who decided to dabble in music or is it a labour of love? Is 'Anywhere I lay my head' any good?
Ten of the Eleven songs are Tom Waits covers and one song is an original which was co-written with the producer Dave Sitek, of TV on the Radio.
The opening track 'Fawn' is an incidental instrumental. 'Town with no cheer' waltzes along moodily with pretty good vocals by Scarlett. 'Falling Down' was the first single and has a contribution by David Bowie as does 'Fanning Street'. Bowie's vocals don't add much except for some credibility. The one original 'Song for Jo' fits in nicely with the overall tone of 'Anywhere I lay my head'. My favourite tracks are 'I don't wanna grow up' with its disco-lite vibe, the title track and the last song 'Who are you' with shared vocals with Dave Sitek.
Tom Waits is such an individual performer that it isn't easy for someone to cover his songs and leave their own identity on them. Tom's vocals are a mix of growling, singing and bellowing and his lyrics tell such strong tales that covering him was not going to be straightforward. Scarlett makes a good effort and the production works well to create a strong flowing tribute to Tom and his music. Not as quirky as the originals are but surprisingly good.
Next up should be a cd of Leonard Cohen songs.
Ten of the Eleven songs are Tom Waits covers and one song is an original which was co-written with the producer Dave Sitek, of TV on the Radio.
The opening track 'Fawn' is an incidental instrumental. 'Town with no cheer' waltzes along moodily with pretty good vocals by Scarlett. 'Falling Down' was the first single and has a contribution by David Bowie as does 'Fanning Street'. Bowie's vocals don't add much except for some credibility. The one original 'Song for Jo' fits in nicely with the overall tone of 'Anywhere I lay my head'. My favourite tracks are 'I don't wanna grow up' with its disco-lite vibe, the title track and the last song 'Who are you' with shared vocals with Dave Sitek.
Tom Waits is such an individual performer that it isn't easy for someone to cover his songs and leave their own identity on them. Tom's vocals are a mix of growling, singing and bellowing and his lyrics tell such strong tales that covering him was not going to be straightforward. Scarlett makes a good effort and the production works well to create a strong flowing tribute to Tom and his music. Not as quirky as the originals are but surprisingly good.
Next up should be a cd of Leonard Cohen songs.
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
Kanye West - 808s and Heartbreak
Kanye West's fourth cd '808s and Heartbreak' is a departure from his earlier hip-hop/pop music with big songs and catchy hooks. Kanye split up with his long term fiance in 2008 which forms the basis for many of the lyrics on it. Interviews with Kanye seem to show a complicated person full of self belief (possibly too much) who has been knocked back by the end of his relationship with his fiance and the death of his mom in the same year.
The first song on the it 'Say you will' sounds like a low key song from the TV show Miami Vice and bleeps along with Kanye's auto-tuned vocals. In 'Welcome to Heartbreak' Kanye sings about his material possesions but lack of family and his regret about this. 'Heartless' and 'Paranoid' have more of Kanye's traditional hip hop vocals. 'Love lockdown' has Kanye using the auto-tuner on his vocals and stands out as one of the better songs on the cd.
There is more singing and less rapping on '808s and Heartbreaks' which makes for an interesting cd but the lack of big catchy hooks is noticeable. It is more understated and different from his earlier releases but he should be acknowledged for trying something new.
I respect Kanye for his comment during Hurricane Katrina for going off message and saying that "George Bush doesn't care about black people." as well as his putting money and his energies into trying to help people in the black community with his foundation.
The first song on the it 'Say you will' sounds like a low key song from the TV show Miami Vice and bleeps along with Kanye's auto-tuned vocals. In 'Welcome to Heartbreak' Kanye sings about his material possesions but lack of family and his regret about this. 'Heartless' and 'Paranoid' have more of Kanye's traditional hip hop vocals. 'Love lockdown' has Kanye using the auto-tuner on his vocals and stands out as one of the better songs on the cd.
There is more singing and less rapping on '808s and Heartbreaks' which makes for an interesting cd but the lack of big catchy hooks is noticeable. It is more understated and different from his earlier releases but he should be acknowledged for trying something new.
I respect Kanye for his comment during Hurricane Katrina for going off message and saying that "George Bush doesn't care about black people." as well as his putting money and his energies into trying to help people in the black community with his foundation.
Monday, 26 January 2009
Big Audio Dynamite - This is Big Audio Dynamite
'This is Big Audio Dynamite' is B.A.D's first release which came out in 1985 and the 5 piece band has lead vocals by Mick Jones from the Clash and Don Letts creating sound effects. 'Medicine show' uses samples from Western films and a very 80's sound with keyboards and Mick's poppy vocals. 'Sony' follows this up with a focus on Eastern culture which continues on from the Clash's interest in this area of the world from the 'Combat Rock' cd. 'E=MC2' was the highest charting single off the cd which came in at number 11 in the UK and is the clearest pop song on it. I'm sure at the time it seemed very futuristic but a lot of the rest of the songs on the cd don't make much impact.
The lyrics don't always make sense but Mick's vocals and the kitchen sink pop music on it make it a decent 80s document. I'm not sure it is something that will stand the test of time because it already sounds quite dated. It is always difficult to judge someone based on what they may have done in the past but 'This is Big Audio Dynamite' doesn't hold a candle to his work in the Clash so doesn't match my high expectations of what he is capable.
The lyrics don't always make sense but Mick's vocals and the kitchen sink pop music on it make it a decent 80s document. I'm not sure it is something that will stand the test of time because it already sounds quite dated. It is always difficult to judge someone based on what they may have done in the past but 'This is Big Audio Dynamite' doesn't hold a candle to his work in the Clash so doesn't match my high expectations of what he is capable.
Sunday, 25 January 2009
Bill Janovitz - Up here
Bill Janovitz is one-third of Buffalo Tom and released 'Up here' as a solo artist in 2001. The cd is acoustic folk-rock and is the equal of much of Buffalo Tom's music in terms of quality.
Bill has a great voice and the songs are as heartfelt as the songs from his main band. There isn't as much variation as there is between softer songs and rockers as there is in Buffalo Tom but there are no weak songs on 'Up here'.
'Like you do' is a beautiful romantic male/female duet and one of the best songs on the cd.
'Long Island' ends the cd with an ode to Long Island and one of the catchiest choruses. All of the songs could have easily found a home on any Buffalo Tom release.
Bill's tales of love and loss, strong lyrics and simple songs make 'Up here' a wonderful companion whether you are in love or just ended a relationship. I've always felt that Buffalo Tom are a hugely underrated band and this cd makes me hope I'll get a chance to see Bill Janovitz on a solo tour.
Bill has a great voice and the songs are as heartfelt as the songs from his main band. There isn't as much variation as there is between softer songs and rockers as there is in Buffalo Tom but there are no weak songs on 'Up here'.
'Like you do' is a beautiful romantic male/female duet and one of the best songs on the cd.
'Long Island' ends the cd with an ode to Long Island and one of the catchiest choruses. All of the songs could have easily found a home on any Buffalo Tom release.
Bill's tales of love and loss, strong lyrics and simple songs make 'Up here' a wonderful companion whether you are in love or just ended a relationship. I've always felt that Buffalo Tom are a hugely underrated band and this cd makes me hope I'll get a chance to see Bill Janovitz on a solo tour.
Saturday, 24 January 2009
King Creosote - KC Rules OK
KC Rules OK came out originally in 2005 and I was tempted to try it out but it passed me by until now. King Creosote is a gentleman by the name of Kenny Anderson and he is associated with the Fence Collective. King Creosote makes folk music and sometimes records with other members of the Fence Collective label as well as his two brothers who are also musicians.
Kenny Anderson has a soothing voice with a gentle Scottish lilt and the songs on KC Rules OK are very easy on the ears. '678' is a song about missed opportunities and failed dreams and one of the best songs on the cd building slowly until it fades out. I also liked 'Locked Together' which reminds me of the Canadian band Blue Rodeo. 'Jump at the cats' with its harmonica and upbeat rhythms stands out from the rest of the slower paced songs. 'My favourite girl' is a sad and lovely lament with some accordian? accompaniment.
This is a good cd but it isn't something that grabbed me as much as other similar musicians like Micah P Hinson has. Great for Sunday morning hangovers.
Kenny Anderson has a soothing voice with a gentle Scottish lilt and the songs on KC Rules OK are very easy on the ears. '678' is a song about missed opportunities and failed dreams and one of the best songs on the cd building slowly until it fades out. I also liked 'Locked Together' which reminds me of the Canadian band Blue Rodeo. 'Jump at the cats' with its harmonica and upbeat rhythms stands out from the rest of the slower paced songs. 'My favourite girl' is a sad and lovely lament with some accordian? accompaniment.
This is a good cd but it isn't something that grabbed me as much as other similar musicians like Micah P Hinson has. Great for Sunday morning hangovers.
Friday, 23 January 2009
Shellac - 1000 Hurts
The mighty Shellac are a 3 piece band with Steve Albini (vocals and guitars), Todd Trainer (drums)and Bob Weston (bass) and 1000 Hurts came out in 2000.
'Prayer to God' is a request to the big man to"'just fucking kill him, kill him already, amen". about someone Steve apparently has taken a dislike to. 'Squirrel Song' begins with the line "This is a sad fucking song, you'll be lucky if I don't bust out crying" and nothing could be further from the truth.
The songs are minimal and full of tension, often feel aggressive and angry. The lyrics are often deadpan funny and delivered in an almost spoken word way or by shouting them out. Steve Albini has said that all of their songs are about baseball or Canada which may be a bit of a fib even if they do seem to focus on these things when they can during their infamous Question and Answer sessions during their live shows.
They aren't exactly easy listening but they are intense, funny and sound brilliant. I recommend this highly along with all of their other music. They are also due to be the house band at the All Tomorrows Parties festival in May. Can't wait to see them again!
From Wikipedia - "In its official promotional materials Shellac described this album as follows: "There are no 12-minute songs on this one. This record is more mean-spirited. Todd sings.""
'Prayer to God' is a request to the big man to"'just fucking kill him, kill him already, amen". about someone Steve apparently has taken a dislike to. 'Squirrel Song' begins with the line "This is a sad fucking song, you'll be lucky if I don't bust out crying" and nothing could be further from the truth.
The songs are minimal and full of tension, often feel aggressive and angry. The lyrics are often deadpan funny and delivered in an almost spoken word way or by shouting them out. Steve Albini has said that all of their songs are about baseball or Canada which may be a bit of a fib even if they do seem to focus on these things when they can during their infamous Question and Answer sessions during their live shows.
They aren't exactly easy listening but they are intense, funny and sound brilliant. I recommend this highly along with all of their other music. They are also due to be the house band at the All Tomorrows Parties festival in May. Can't wait to see them again!
From Wikipedia - "In its official promotional materials Shellac described this album as follows: "There are no 12-minute songs on this one. This record is more mean-spirited. Todd sings.""
Thursday, 22 January 2009
The Replacements - Hootenany
The Replacements were one of the finest, messiest bands around in the 80's and Hootenanny was their second studio album which came out in 1983. The music is loose and generally fast with a few exceptions but shows a progression from their first cd which was even faster and messier. Paul Westerberg doesn't just holler along to the music and there are signs of what they would become on later releases like 'Let it Be'.
'Run it' could have easily come off their first cd 'Sorry Ma, Forgot to take out the trash' (a great set of songs about cars, women and booze and trying to make your own fun. 'Mr. Whirly' is their amusing take on old school rock and roll. 'Within your reach' is Paul stretching beyond the basic boundaries of their earlier songs. 'Buck Hill' is mainly an instrumental which sounds like an early R.E.M song. 'Lovelines' is funny, 'You Lose' a straight-ahead rocker as is 'Hayday'.
The final song 'Treatment bound' starts off with the line 'We're getting no place, fast as you can.' which probably sums up the band's philosophy and direction but it was great going along with them.
I prefer their first cd for basic rock tunes, 'Let it Be' for their mix of ballads and pop/rock and 'Don't tell a soul' for a few of their mainstream pop songs on it, but 'Hootenanny' is still a good cd by a great band. R.I.P
'Run it' could have easily come off their first cd 'Sorry Ma, Forgot to take out the trash' (a great set of songs about cars, women and booze and trying to make your own fun. 'Mr. Whirly' is their amusing take on old school rock and roll. 'Within your reach' is Paul stretching beyond the basic boundaries of their earlier songs. 'Buck Hill' is mainly an instrumental which sounds like an early R.E.M song. 'Lovelines' is funny, 'You Lose' a straight-ahead rocker as is 'Hayday'.
The final song 'Treatment bound' starts off with the line 'We're getting no place, fast as you can.' which probably sums up the band's philosophy and direction but it was great going along with them.
I prefer their first cd for basic rock tunes, 'Let it Be' for their mix of ballads and pop/rock and 'Don't tell a soul' for a few of their mainstream pop songs on it, but 'Hootenanny' is still a good cd by a great band. R.I.P
Wednesday, 21 January 2009
All Girl Summer Fun Band - All Girl Summer Fun Band
The band name acts as a very strong description of the type of music the All Girl Summer Fun Band makes. The strong harmonies, wistful music and catchy songs reverberate with echoes of the Beach Boys, Cub and the Breeders. It is fun simple music in the same way that the Ramones are which is just what the doctor ordered with the cold, wet winter seeming to go on forever.
The songs focus on relationships, the lyrics are funny without being wacky and they don't hang around for long which makes it so good. It is twee and very sweet so it is probably best listened to in small doses. This self-titled cd is their first and was released on K records.
Like all great bands they have a 'theme song' which spells out their mission statement. I enjoyed 'Canadian Boyfriend', 'Brooklyn Phone Call' and 'new in town' but they are all decent songs.
The songs focus on relationships, the lyrics are funny without being wacky and they don't hang around for long which makes it so good. It is twee and very sweet so it is probably best listened to in small doses. This self-titled cd is their first and was released on K records.
Like all great bands they have a 'theme song' which spells out their mission statement. I enjoyed 'Canadian Boyfriend', 'Brooklyn Phone Call' and 'new in town' but they are all decent songs.
Tuesday, 20 January 2009
Laura Veirs - Two Beers Veirs
Laura Veirs covers five traditional folk/blues/country songs on this cd.
'Wildwood Flower' was the last song recorded by June Carter Cash before she died. I believe it was originally recorded by A.P. Carter an ancestor of hers. Laura brings the Carter family spirit to the song but makes it her own.
'The Coo-Coo bird' is a traditional Appalachian song which according to the internet is about the bird being a symbol of fickleness in love or the coming of summer and has some lovely vocals and whistling on it.
'Freight train' was written by Elizabeth Cotten when she was 12 years old and is a classic traditional folk song. She was apparently self-taught and played the guitar left handed and upside down. I've always had a soft spot for this song and Laura's version remains true to the original feeling of wanting to disappear and get away. This was also one of the songs which I tried and failed to learn to play on guitar a few years ago in an introductory class.
Her approach to singing these traditional songs with honesty and a simple delivery has made me want to check out her own music and track down the original versions of these traditional songs.
'Wildwood Flower' was the last song recorded by June Carter Cash before she died. I believe it was originally recorded by A.P. Carter an ancestor of hers. Laura brings the Carter family spirit to the song but makes it her own.
'The Coo-Coo bird' is a traditional Appalachian song which according to the internet is about the bird being a symbol of fickleness in love or the coming of summer and has some lovely vocals and whistling on it.
'Freight train' was written by Elizabeth Cotten when she was 12 years old and is a classic traditional folk song. She was apparently self-taught and played the guitar left handed and upside down. I've always had a soft spot for this song and Laura's version remains true to the original feeling of wanting to disappear and get away. This was also one of the songs which I tried and failed to learn to play on guitar a few years ago in an introductory class.
Her approach to singing these traditional songs with honesty and a simple delivery has made me want to check out her own music and track down the original versions of these traditional songs.
Monday, 19 January 2009
Bon Iver - Blood Bank
Blood Bank is a 4 track EP which follows up on the success of his earlier cd 'For Emma, Forever Ago'. The title track sounds like it could have been written by Coldplay if they were any good still. 'Beach Baby' is so supple and smooth it disappears before I can grab ahold of it but I love the guitar in the middle of the song.
'Babys' begins with a basic repetitive piano riff for half the song until the vocals start. It wouldn't feel out of place on 'For Emma..' with his gorgeous voice and song structure. 'Woods' has vocals which sound like they've been put through a vocorder until the multi-tracked vocals turn into something which wouldn't sound out of place as part of a religious hymn.
While it doesn't turn out to be much of a departure from 'For Emma..' there is enough difference to make it a great companion piece. It will be interesting to see how he follows up his first two releases with his next cd and what direction it'll take him in (or if he goes back to the woods to record the next one). I'm predicting a grime direction and a duet with Jay-Z.
'Babys' begins with a basic repetitive piano riff for half the song until the vocals start. It wouldn't feel out of place on 'For Emma..' with his gorgeous voice and song structure. 'Woods' has vocals which sound like they've been put through a vocorder until the multi-tracked vocals turn into something which wouldn't sound out of place as part of a religious hymn.
While it doesn't turn out to be much of a departure from 'For Emma..' there is enough difference to make it a great companion piece. It will be interesting to see how he follows up his first two releases with his next cd and what direction it'll take him in (or if he goes back to the woods to record the next one). I'm predicting a grime direction and a duet with Jay-Z.
Sunday, 18 January 2009
Peter Broderick - Home
Peter Broderick is a touring member of the band Efterklang and a session musician with a number of other bands. Home was released in 2008 and is partly instrumental and full of multi-layered soothing vocals and acoustic guitar.
Home has a similar feel to Bon Iver's 'For Emma, Forever Ago' which came out last year to critical acclaim and unfortunately is living in its shadow. Home is just as good as 'For Emma..' but isn't as recognized. It is almost as if there was only room for one cd by a singer-songwriter who plays delicate music and Bon Iver got there before Peter Broderick.
Home is enjoyable on first listen but it really grew on me with each subsequent listen. My favourite track is ' Below it' with the lines 'with his fingers he would push and with his fingers he would pull..to come back up.' and its lovely guitar playing. 'With the notes in my ears' is another beautiful song with gorgeous lyrics, heavenly vocals and fingerpicking guitar accompaniment.
Give Home some space in your Home or take your loved one to see him on Valentine's Day at the brilliant Union Chapel.
Home has a similar feel to Bon Iver's 'For Emma, Forever Ago' which came out last year to critical acclaim and unfortunately is living in its shadow. Home is just as good as 'For Emma..' but isn't as recognized. It is almost as if there was only room for one cd by a singer-songwriter who plays delicate music and Bon Iver got there before Peter Broderick.
Home is enjoyable on first listen but it really grew on me with each subsequent listen. My favourite track is ' Below it' with the lines 'with his fingers he would push and with his fingers he would pull..to come back up.' and its lovely guitar playing. 'With the notes in my ears' is another beautiful song with gorgeous lyrics, heavenly vocals and fingerpicking guitar accompaniment.
Give Home some space in your Home or take your loved one to see him on Valentine's Day at the brilliant Union Chapel.
Saturday, 17 January 2009
Van Morrison - Astral Weeks
Astral Weeks opens with the words 'If i ventured in the slipstream between the viaducts of your dreams...could you find me?, would you kiss my eyes?, lay me down, silence easy, to be born again, to be born again' . Pure poetry and a great opening to a lovely cd.
Astral Weeks came out in 1968 to critical acclaim but little commercial success, but since then has been acknowledged by many to be a brilliant piece of music. I've never really listened much to Van Morrison apart from the obvious songs you hear all over the place ('Gloria', 'Brown Eyed Girl') and always thought of him as a grumpy old man. In fact he has shown this to be the case when he decided to ban alcohol when he played the SXSW festival and for his recent tour. Having said that I wish i'd given Astral Weeks a listen before this.
The music and lyrics flow freely and Van's voice floats along with the guitars, drums and flute. The whole cd feels organic and none of the words or music feels out of place. It feels like the music was made by a 60 year old man who had lived a full life not someone who was only 23.
'Astral Weeks' is genius and the best song on the cd. I know 'Sweet Thing' from the Waterboys cover of the song on Fisherman's Blues -one of my favourite cds and love the original more than the cover. 'Madame George' is one of those epic storytelling songs which no one really tries to write anymore (and if they do it isn't half as good).
He recently played Astral Weeks in Hollywood and the cd/dvd is out in February. I'm curious to see how it sounds now being sung by Van as he is in the autumn of his life.
Astral Weeks came out in 1968 to critical acclaim but little commercial success, but since then has been acknowledged by many to be a brilliant piece of music. I've never really listened much to Van Morrison apart from the obvious songs you hear all over the place ('Gloria', 'Brown Eyed Girl') and always thought of him as a grumpy old man. In fact he has shown this to be the case when he decided to ban alcohol when he played the SXSW festival and for his recent tour. Having said that I wish i'd given Astral Weeks a listen before this.
The music and lyrics flow freely and Van's voice floats along with the guitars, drums and flute. The whole cd feels organic and none of the words or music feels out of place. It feels like the music was made by a 60 year old man who had lived a full life not someone who was only 23.
'Astral Weeks' is genius and the best song on the cd. I know 'Sweet Thing' from the Waterboys cover of the song on Fisherman's Blues -one of my favourite cds and love the original more than the cover. 'Madame George' is one of those epic storytelling songs which no one really tries to write anymore (and if they do it isn't half as good).
He recently played Astral Weeks in Hollywood and the cd/dvd is out in February. I'm curious to see how it sounds now being sung by Van as he is in the autumn of his life.
Friday, 16 January 2009
That Ghost - Young Fridays
Young Fridays is a very lo-fi cd of music recorded by Ryan Schmale mostly in his bedroom.
The vocals are similar to Daniel Jonston (maybe because of the lack of production) and the music is simple and very basically recorded.
'I crossed out the options' ,'Never have fun' and 'friends in quotations' sound like a lo-fi Strokes. 'A song about a bird I know' could be a Devendra Barnhart song - a simple lullaby/love song. The music feels heartfelt and personal and it is consistently good especially when you consider it was recorded by an 18 year old and that this is apparently his 4th cd.
A lot of people record music in their homes and make lo-fi music but not everyone is capable of creating something as good as Young Fridays. Recommended if you enjoy music lo-fi indie music. Not recommended if you like Scouting for Girls.
The vocals are similar to Daniel Jonston (maybe because of the lack of production) and the music is simple and very basically recorded.
'I crossed out the options' ,'Never have fun' and 'friends in quotations' sound like a lo-fi Strokes. 'A song about a bird I know' could be a Devendra Barnhart song - a simple lullaby/love song. The music feels heartfelt and personal and it is consistently good especially when you consider it was recorded by an 18 year old and that this is apparently his 4th cd.
A lot of people record music in their homes and make lo-fi music but not everyone is capable of creating something as good as Young Fridays. Recommended if you enjoy music lo-fi indie music. Not recommended if you like Scouting for Girls.
Thursday, 15 January 2009
Vivian Girls - Vivian Girls
Vivian Girls is one what my friend Greg's girlfriend would call a 'nano-band'. One of those bands which receive a lot of hype and critical acclaim appearing out of nowhere and totally of the moment. I'm not sure if this is something she sees as a positive thing.
This self titled cd is their first and the 10 songs rattle along in a short 22 minutes. The female trio play music steeped in 60's girl groups, lo-fi, full of feedback and harmonies. The catchy vocals are low in the mix and the lyrics aren't always easy to make out but it all works quite well.
The first time I tried to listen to this I didn't really connect to it but it may have been because it was on a busy tube into work. Hearing it for a second time it made more of a positive impression on me and the vocal harmonies and lo-fi music make it a good cd overall.
The Vivian Girls may not be something i'll listen to in a few years time and it may fit the
'nano-band' description but for now it is good rocking fun.
This self titled cd is their first and the 10 songs rattle along in a short 22 minutes. The female trio play music steeped in 60's girl groups, lo-fi, full of feedback and harmonies. The catchy vocals are low in the mix and the lyrics aren't always easy to make out but it all works quite well.
The first time I tried to listen to this I didn't really connect to it but it may have been because it was on a busy tube into work. Hearing it for a second time it made more of a positive impression on me and the vocal harmonies and lo-fi music make it a good cd overall.
The Vivian Girls may not be something i'll listen to in a few years time and it may fit the
'nano-band' description but for now it is good rocking fun.
Wednesday, 14 January 2009
Edwyn Collins - Home Again
This is Edwyn Collins first cd since he returned after suffering a brain hemorrhage in 2005 and spending 6 months recovering from brain surgery. Home Again was mixed after he was released from the hospital but written before his illness.
The music on Home Again varies from gentle folk to country to blues. 'Leviathan' reminds me of Jim Morrison of the Doors vocals but has less pretentious lyrics. 'Its in your heart' and 'Home Again' are lovely songs with beautiful guitar playing and vocals. 'Superstar talking blues' evokes the spirit and sound of Elvis. Edwin's lyrics range from being full of lovely honesty and satire.
'Written in stone' feels like a drunken waltz at the end of a relationship.
It is difficult to listen to this without thinking that this could have been a posthumous release. It needs to be loved for what it is though - beautiful music played with love and wit by a great musician.
The music on Home Again varies from gentle folk to country to blues. 'Leviathan' reminds me of Jim Morrison of the Doors vocals but has less pretentious lyrics. 'Its in your heart' and 'Home Again' are lovely songs with beautiful guitar playing and vocals. 'Superstar talking blues' evokes the spirit and sound of Elvis. Edwin's lyrics range from being full of lovely honesty and satire.
'Written in stone' feels like a drunken waltz at the end of a relationship.
It is difficult to listen to this without thinking that this could have been a posthumous release. It needs to be loved for what it is though - beautiful music played with love and wit by a great musician.
Tuesday, 13 January 2009
The Gutter Twins - Adorata
Adorata is an 8 track EP with 6 covers and two Gutter Twins originals.
Greg Dulli and Mark Lanegan have excellent past pedigree being in Afghan Whigs, Twilight Singers and as a solo performer (Dulli) and Screaming Trees, solo, with Soulsavers and with Isobel Campbell. Together they make sweet music.
'Belles' is a Vetiver cover which sounds world weary, 'Down the Line' a Jose Gonzales cover which turns a fragile song into a much tougher beast. 'Flow like a River' sounds like a groovy Queens of the Stone Age cover. 'St James Infirmary' should only be sung by people who've lived a full life and the two lead singers who have done just that trade vocals to great effect.
It is always tricky trying to find a balance between faithful recreation of a song and making it sound completely different/in your own style. I've only heard a few of these songs before but I think they've managed to put together a mix of songs which could have been writen by the Gutter Twins.
Of the two originals I prefer 'We have met before' over 'Spanish Doors' but either song could easily have been on their Saturnalia cd. I can't wait to see Lanegan and Dulli at the Union Chapel this Monday.
Taken from the Gutter Twins website -"Recorded mostly during the original sessions for their debut album Saturnalia, Adorata finds The Gutter Twins drawing material from a wide range of artists and capturing the energy and excitement of their live performances. The eight track EP includes: "Belles," (Vetiver), " Down The Line" (Jose Gonzales), "Deep Hit Of Morning Sun," (Primal Scream), "Flow Like A River," (Eleven), "St. James Infirmary," (Traditional) "Duchess," (Scott Walker), and two previously unreleased original Gutter Twins songs "Spanish Doors," and "We Have Met Before."
Greg Dulli and Mark Lanegan have excellent past pedigree being in Afghan Whigs, Twilight Singers and as a solo performer (Dulli) and Screaming Trees, solo, with Soulsavers and with Isobel Campbell. Together they make sweet music.
'Belles' is a Vetiver cover which sounds world weary, 'Down the Line' a Jose Gonzales cover which turns a fragile song into a much tougher beast. 'Flow like a River' sounds like a groovy Queens of the Stone Age cover. 'St James Infirmary' should only be sung by people who've lived a full life and the two lead singers who have done just that trade vocals to great effect.
It is always tricky trying to find a balance between faithful recreation of a song and making it sound completely different/in your own style. I've only heard a few of these songs before but I think they've managed to put together a mix of songs which could have been writen by the Gutter Twins.
Of the two originals I prefer 'We have met before' over 'Spanish Doors' but either song could easily have been on their Saturnalia cd. I can't wait to see Lanegan and Dulli at the Union Chapel this Monday.
Taken from the Gutter Twins website -"Recorded mostly during the original sessions for their debut album Saturnalia, Adorata finds The Gutter Twins drawing material from a wide range of artists and capturing the energy and excitement of their live performances. The eight track EP includes: "Belles," (Vetiver), " Down The Line" (Jose Gonzales), "Deep Hit Of Morning Sun," (Primal Scream), "Flow Like A River," (Eleven), "St. James Infirmary," (Traditional) "Duchess," (Scott Walker), and two previously unreleased original Gutter Twins songs "Spanish Doors," and "We Have Met Before."
Monday, 12 January 2009
Sonic Youth - Rather Ripped
I haven't listened to any new Sonic Youth cds for years but have always had a soft spot in my heart for some of their earlier music (Daydream Nation, Goo, Dirty) and for their ability to switch between pop, noise and experimental music. Also Kim Gordon is an indie icon who should be revered by all.
Rather Ripped is full of low key lo-fi songs which buzz and drift along quite nicely. They aren't re-inventing the indie post-rock wheel but it is quite good. There aren't any songs which stand out but almost all of them are good. I didn't care much for 'Helen Lundeberg' or 'Or' and generally prefer the Kim Gordon tracks 'What a waste' and 'The Neutral'. This is not very experimental cd so there are no 20 minute sound collages or feedback drenched songs.
The coolest kids in school aren't kids any more but they are still relevant. I'm looking forward to their new cd this year to see what direction they'll go in next.
Rather Ripped is full of low key lo-fi songs which buzz and drift along quite nicely. They aren't re-inventing the indie post-rock wheel but it is quite good. There aren't any songs which stand out but almost all of them are good. I didn't care much for 'Helen Lundeberg' or 'Or' and generally prefer the Kim Gordon tracks 'What a waste' and 'The Neutral'. This is not very experimental cd so there are no 20 minute sound collages or feedback drenched songs.
The coolest kids in school aren't kids any more but they are still relevant. I'm looking forward to their new cd this year to see what direction they'll go in next.
Sunday, 11 January 2009
The Killers - Day and Age
The Killers fourth cd Day and Age tries to build upon their previous successes. They seem to be aiming to be the next U2 with their big chords and choruses and generally big music but generally this is a more restrained affair.
'Human' the first single, is typical of the songs on Day and Age with lyrics that make little sense if you listen too closely but it still manages to get under your skin after repeated listens.
'Joy Ride' tries too hard to be funky and fails, 'A Dustland Fairytale' ebbs and flows nicely as it tries to evoke Bruce Springsteen. 'Goodnight, Travel well' is too dirge-like, long and unnecessary.
They still haven't topped the songs on their first cd in terms of scale, ambition and catchiness but Day and Age is a largely decent pop cd especially if you don't pay too much attention to the lyrics.
'Human' the first single, is typical of the songs on Day and Age with lyrics that make little sense if you listen too closely but it still manages to get under your skin after repeated listens.
'Joy Ride' tries too hard to be funky and fails, 'A Dustland Fairytale' ebbs and flows nicely as it tries to evoke Bruce Springsteen. 'Goodnight, Travel well' is too dirge-like, long and unnecessary.
They still haven't topped the songs on their first cd in terms of scale, ambition and catchiness but Day and Age is a largely decent pop cd especially if you don't pay too much attention to the lyrics.
Saturday, 10 January 2009
Mogwai - The Hawk is Howling
Mogwai have made a strong comeback with The Hawk is Howling after their last few mediocre releases. I've been a bit of a fan since seeing them live at the Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto with a friend who became physically ill because of the volume and intensity of their music. No higher compliment than that I think.
The single 'Batcat' steams along nicely with an undercurrent of malevolance. 'The sun smells too loud' unfolds quietly and seems to want to build into something louder but it never does. 'I love you, I'm going to blow up your school' repeats the same trick until the final minute when it rocks out slightly. The instrumentals on The Hawk is Howling mainly meander along before trickling away into the next track. There is nothing here as brilliant as 'New Paths to Helicon I or II' but it would be very difficult to top what was one of their finest earlier songs. However, it is a solid post-rock release and a step back in the right direction. Neither their best nor their worst work.
The single 'Batcat' steams along nicely with an undercurrent of malevolance. 'The sun smells too loud' unfolds quietly and seems to want to build into something louder but it never does. 'I love you, I'm going to blow up your school' repeats the same trick until the final minute when it rocks out slightly. The instrumentals on The Hawk is Howling mainly meander along before trickling away into the next track. There is nothing here as brilliant as 'New Paths to Helicon I or II' but it would be very difficult to top what was one of their finest earlier songs. However, it is a solid post-rock release and a step back in the right direction. Neither their best nor their worst work.
Friday, 9 January 2009
Attic Lights - Friday Night Lights
Attic Lights are a mainly Scottish band who have been around since 2005. This is their first cd and was produced by a member of Teenage Fanclub. Friday Night Lights came out in October 2008 and is full of catchy pop rock songs. There is some similarity to Teenage Fanclub with wistful songs with strong harmonies.
There really isn't a whole lot for me to make them stand out from any other pop/rock combos out there. This could be Scouting for Girls or McFly or anyone else mining a similar vein of music. The first two songs are the best on the cd 'Never Get Sick of the Sea' - with its vocal harmonies and a slightly slower but similar 'Bring you down'. Fairly good for this type of music but not something which makes much of a lasting impact.
They are supposed to be providing a new theme song to the new Minder TV programme in 2009 so I guess you could say that they can truly 'sing the theme tune.'
There really isn't a whole lot for me to make them stand out from any other pop/rock combos out there. This could be Scouting for Girls or McFly or anyone else mining a similar vein of music. The first two songs are the best on the cd 'Never Get Sick of the Sea' - with its vocal harmonies and a slightly slower but similar 'Bring you down'. Fairly good for this type of music but not something which makes much of a lasting impact.
They are supposed to be providing a new theme song to the new Minder TV programme in 2009 so I guess you could say that they can truly 'sing the theme tune.'
Thursday, 8 January 2009
The Rural Alberta Advantage - Hometowns
The Rural Alberta Advantage was selected by emusic as one of their choice upcoming bands so I downloaded it on a whim and am really glad I did. I was probably drawn to them by their name and the fact that I suspected they are Canadian.
The vocals on the cd are heartfelt and full of emotion and the 13 songs on it skip by so quickly you want to put it on again right away. There isn't a duff song on Hometowns and every time I hear it I have a new favourite. The songs vary from the headlong percussion on 'Deathbridge from Lethbridge' to the the mellower 'Sleep all day' but it all works really well.
It isn't often that I hear a cd for the first time and make such a strong connection to it right away but with Hometowns I have. They make me want to hop on a plane back to Canada just to see them.
Highly recommended!
The vocals on the cd are heartfelt and full of emotion and the 13 songs on it skip by so quickly you want to put it on again right away. There isn't a duff song on Hometowns and every time I hear it I have a new favourite. The songs vary from the headlong percussion on 'Deathbridge from Lethbridge' to the the mellower 'Sleep all day' but it all works really well.
It isn't often that I hear a cd for the first time and make such a strong connection to it right away but with Hometowns I have. They make me want to hop on a plane back to Canada just to see them.
Highly recommended!
Wednesday, 7 January 2009
Black Kids - Partie Traumatic
Black Kids, a band from Florida, first cd was produced by Bernard Butler of Suede and came out in mid-2008. They ended up on a lot of best of 2008 lists and have received more popular acclaim in the UK than in their home country.
I've heard the single 'i'm not going to teach your boyfriend how to dance' a few times this year and kept meaning to check the band out. Their cd reminds me of David Bowie's 'modern love', happy cure songs, eating too many sweets and feeling giddy and the go team on 'look at me (when i rock wichoo)'.
The cd is consistently good if a little similar sounding and the songs are catchy singalongs you want to dance to. It isn't something I would want to listen to too much as it is a bit too poppy for my liking but they would probably be a great band to see live.
I've heard the single 'i'm not going to teach your boyfriend how to dance' a few times this year and kept meaning to check the band out. Their cd reminds me of David Bowie's 'modern love', happy cure songs, eating too many sweets and feeling giddy and the go team on 'look at me (when i rock wichoo)'.
The cd is consistently good if a little similar sounding and the songs are catchy singalongs you want to dance to. It isn't something I would want to listen to too much as it is a bit too poppy for my liking but they would probably be a great band to see live.
Tuesday, 6 January 2009
Styrofoam - Nothing's lost
Stryofoam is the moniker for a one man electronic project who has been making music since before 2000. Nothing's lost has a number of collaborations including Ben Gibbard from Death Cab for Cutie.
The cd drifts along nicely with a gentle mix of electronica and pop. I couldn't fully engage with a lot of the music but there were a few songs which worked better than others. Standout songs for me were 'Couches in Alleys' - the Ben Gibbard collaboration and the last song on the cd 'make it mine' which is the longest track at 9+ minutes which unfolds quite nicely.
I'm curious what Styrofoam might sound like live as I think it could work quite well in that setting so will probably check them out at the ATP festival in May.
The cd drifts along nicely with a gentle mix of electronica and pop. I couldn't fully engage with a lot of the music but there were a few songs which worked better than others. Standout songs for me were 'Couches in Alleys' - the Ben Gibbard collaboration and the last song on the cd 'make it mine' which is the longest track at 9+ minutes which unfolds quite nicely.
I'm curious what Styrofoam might sound like live as I think it could work quite well in that setting so will probably check them out at the ATP festival in May.
Monday, 5 January 2009
TV on the Radio - Dear Science,
A lot of people got very excited about this cd when it came out last year and it topped a few critics and fans lists for 2008. I hadn't got around to hearing it yet so thought it was time. I've listened to a few of their earlier cds and although they were good i didn't really warm to them.
The opening track 'Halfway Home' is a great start to the cd with some doo wop background vocals. The cd has a buzzy electronic vibe with some understated funky beats, falsetto singing and great use of horns. It feels like a 60s soundtrack updated to modern times.
'Golden Age' and 'Shout me out' and 'Lovers Day' are standout tracks for me. I didn't enjoy 'Love Dog' and 'Stork & Owl' as much as the other songs.
It really does deserve all the praise it has received. A great cd with intelligent lyrics and a warm soulful feel to it.
The opening track 'Halfway Home' is a great start to the cd with some doo wop background vocals. The cd has a buzzy electronic vibe with some understated funky beats, falsetto singing and great use of horns. It feels like a 60s soundtrack updated to modern times.
'Golden Age' and 'Shout me out' and 'Lovers Day' are standout tracks for me. I didn't enjoy 'Love Dog' and 'Stork & Owl' as much as the other songs.
It really does deserve all the praise it has received. A great cd with intelligent lyrics and a warm soulful feel to it.
Sunday, 4 January 2009
Guns N' Roses - Chinese Democracy
Was it worth the wait? After an incubation period of more than a decade and various line up changes, lawsuits and rumours and a whole lot of money spent recording it Chinese Democracy has finally been released. Axl Rose is the only original member of the band still involved in the band so some view this as a solo project under the Guns N Roses banner.
I have to say that I haven't exactly been waiting with baited breath for this as much as I enjoyed their debut cd - Appetite for Destruction - at the time it came out and after recently hearing it again.
What is it like then?
It all sounds a bit dated and a lot of the songs are a bit too long but there are a few good songs on the cd. 'Chinese Democracy' leads the cd off sounding a little bit like the Scorpions song 'Rock you like a hurricane' until Axl starts singing and it almost feels like a Foo Fighters song. 'Better' is slightly better but 'Street of Dreams' is a dull power ballad. Too many songs are power ballads - they don't rock out nearly enough. 'I.R.S' is a decent song but overall the cd is a letdown. I needed to listen to Appetite for Destruction to remind me of what Guns N Roses is capable of and to cleanse the pallette.
I love the side story about Dr. Pepper offering a free can of their lovely carbonated beverage to everyone in the US apart from Slash (original guitarist) and Buckethead (a replacement guitarist) if the album came out in 2008. I can't imagine the marketing man has a job there anymore unless it is as a delivery driver to ensure everyone gets their soft drink. I also love that Axl said he would share his with Buckethead as he worked on Chinese Democracy.
Thanks to Steve for the lend of this cd.
I have to say that I haven't exactly been waiting with baited breath for this as much as I enjoyed their debut cd - Appetite for Destruction - at the time it came out and after recently hearing it again.
What is it like then?
It all sounds a bit dated and a lot of the songs are a bit too long but there are a few good songs on the cd. 'Chinese Democracy' leads the cd off sounding a little bit like the Scorpions song 'Rock you like a hurricane' until Axl starts singing and it almost feels like a Foo Fighters song. 'Better' is slightly better but 'Street of Dreams' is a dull power ballad. Too many songs are power ballads - they don't rock out nearly enough. 'I.R.S' is a decent song but overall the cd is a letdown. I needed to listen to Appetite for Destruction to remind me of what Guns N Roses is capable of and to cleanse the pallette.
I love the side story about Dr. Pepper offering a free can of their lovely carbonated beverage to everyone in the US apart from Slash (original guitarist) and Buckethead (a replacement guitarist) if the album came out in 2008. I can't imagine the marketing man has a job there anymore unless it is as a delivery driver to ensure everyone gets their soft drink. I also love that Axl said he would share his with Buckethead as he worked on Chinese Democracy.
Thanks to Steve for the lend of this cd.
Saturday, 3 January 2009
American Music Club - The Restless Stranger
The Restless Stranger is American Music Club's first release which is not viewed favourably by their lead singer Mark Eitzel. One of my favourite albums of all time is California by American Music Club which is one of the loveliest, saddest albums ever made. I've never listened to this before because I was worried it would not be very good.
The cd starts out with 'Room above the club' which is also on a live Mark Eitzel album called Songs of love. This version is not as good as the one on the live album but American Music Club/Mark Eitzel are a strong live performers well worth seeing when Mark Eitzel is on form.
The Restless Stranger is a bit rough around the edges but shows the future promise of the band. This cd is as good as most of their other ones and I'm glad i finally decided to give it a try.
Standout tracks for me are 'Room above the club', 'Point of Desire' and 'Hold on to your love' - simply a beautiful love song. Mark Eitzel is able to turn sadness into beauty with his lyrics and he is well matched musically by the rest of American Music Club.
They are due to release another cd sometime this year and will hopefully tour here again. I highly recommend seeing them live.
The cd starts out with 'Room above the club' which is also on a live Mark Eitzel album called Songs of love. This version is not as good as the one on the live album but American Music Club/Mark Eitzel are a strong live performers well worth seeing when Mark Eitzel is on form.
The Restless Stranger is a bit rough around the edges but shows the future promise of the band. This cd is as good as most of their other ones and I'm glad i finally decided to give it a try.
Standout tracks for me are 'Room above the club', 'Point of Desire' and 'Hold on to your love' - simply a beautiful love song. Mark Eitzel is able to turn sadness into beauty with his lyrics and he is well matched musically by the rest of American Music Club.
They are due to release another cd sometime this year and will hopefully tour here again. I highly recommend seeing them live.
Friday, 2 January 2009
The Wedding Present - El Rey
The Wedding Present released El Rey in May 2008. They were one of my wife's favourite bands when she was younger but they passed me by when they were at their best and I only knew of them because of the ongoing pisstaking by most of the writers at the Melody Maker which I would buy at an outragreously high price when I could find it in Canada. Because of this I used to think that they must be a terrible band which put me off listening to them.
We went to see them on their tour for the previous album and had a boogie to their older tunes and some of the newer ones from Take Fountain, the album before this. El Rey continues with David Gedge's caustic wit and songs about relationships (usually failing ones). His lyrics are as clever and funny as anyone else writing about relationships in indie music today.
Overall I think this album is more consistent than Take Fountain with fewer weak songs. The production is cleaner and El Rey feels more poppy and accessible. My favourites are 'Spider Man on Hollywood' and 'I love the monkey' and 'Model, Actress, whatever...' but each track flows well into the next making it an album you really need to here from beginning to end. My only minor complaint would be that I did find the song 'The trouble with men' a bit dull.
I guess the last laugh is on the Melody Maker as The Wedding Present is still around while they have disappeared.
Long may they run!
7/10
We went to see them on their tour for the previous album and had a boogie to their older tunes and some of the newer ones from Take Fountain, the album before this. El Rey continues with David Gedge's caustic wit and songs about relationships (usually failing ones). His lyrics are as clever and funny as anyone else writing about relationships in indie music today.
Overall I think this album is more consistent than Take Fountain with fewer weak songs. The production is cleaner and El Rey feels more poppy and accessible. My favourites are 'Spider Man on Hollywood' and 'I love the monkey' and 'Model, Actress, whatever...' but each track flows well into the next making it an album you really need to here from beginning to end. My only minor complaint would be that I did find the song 'The trouble with men' a bit dull.
I guess the last laugh is on the Melody Maker as The Wedding Present is still around while they have disappeared.
Long may they run!
7/10
Throwing Muses - The Real Ramona
The Real Ramona is an early release by Throwing Muses which is viewed by some as their finest work. I don't have anything else to compare it to as I've only heard an occasional song over the years but have enjoyed music made by the two lead singers, Kirsten Hersh and Tanya Donnelly as members of the Breeders, as solo artists and in 50 Foot Wave.
The Real Ramona has some exceptional songs which I believe I must have heard before as they felt so familiar. The difference between Kirsten and Tanya's vocals and songs works well overall on the album. For pure pop 'Not too soon' is a lovely song and one of my favourites on the cd, 'Hook in her head' has a brilliant bit of drumming and slightly psychedelic guitar playing at the end of it. Overall the cd feels like it could only have been made in the early 90s but it doesn't mean that it feels dated only that it fits into that period of alternative music.
Some of the songs ('Red Shoes',' Ellen West', 'Dylan') drift by without making much of impression but the closing ballad 'Two Steps' ends The Real Ramona on a sweet/sad note leaving me looking forward to hearing more of their music and getting to see them as part of the All Tomorrows Parties festival (my first) later this year.
6/10
The Real Ramona has some exceptional songs which I believe I must have heard before as they felt so familiar. The difference between Kirsten and Tanya's vocals and songs works well overall on the album. For pure pop 'Not too soon' is a lovely song and one of my favourites on the cd, 'Hook in her head' has a brilliant bit of drumming and slightly psychedelic guitar playing at the end of it. Overall the cd feels like it could only have been made in the early 90s but it doesn't mean that it feels dated only that it fits into that period of alternative music.
Some of the songs ('Red Shoes',' Ellen West', 'Dylan') drift by without making much of impression but the closing ballad 'Two Steps' ends The Real Ramona on a sweet/sad note leaving me looking forward to hearing more of their music and getting to see them as part of the All Tomorrows Parties festival (my first) later this year.
6/10
Thursday, 1 January 2009
365 days - 365 reviews
Welcome to yearoftunes.
I will be listening to and reviewing one cd/album/mp3 release every day this year. I've never done anything like this before and hope that I will end up being exposed to a lot of new/old/interesting music.
There is no specific plan on what i'm going to choose so will just see where this all goes. All of the music will be new to me and not something I've ever listened to before. I'm open to suggestions for what to review but can't afford to buy 365 cds so will be borrowing from friends, libraries, downloading off emusic and buying a few here and there.
Wish me luck.
Jason
I will be listening to and reviewing one cd/album/mp3 release every day this year. I've never done anything like this before and hope that I will end up being exposed to a lot of new/old/interesting music.
There is no specific plan on what i'm going to choose so will just see where this all goes. All of the music will be new to me and not something I've ever listened to before. I'm open to suggestions for what to review but can't afford to buy 365 cds so will be borrowing from friends, libraries, downloading off emusic and buying a few here and there.
Wish me luck.
Jason
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