Watching this week's episode of Glee, I was reminded yet again how much I adore male/female duets. Kristin Chenoweth and Matthew Morrison rocking out karaoke-style to Heart's "Alone" made me sit up straighter, open my eyes wider, and strain my ears to catch every note. Here it is below if you missed it (a better version can be found in the full episode, which you can watch on Hulu):
Embedded below are my very favorite male/female duets, in no particular order since I cherish each and every one of them:
Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, "It Ain't Me Babe" (actually, it's pretty much a three-way tie between this, "Jackson," and "If I Were A Carpenter")
Slow Club, "Christmas TV"
Gentle, folky, sweet, and charming. I must have listened to this song 30 or 40 times in the span of a week. It still hasn't gotten old.
The Postal Service, "Nothing Better"
Still makes me tear up, years after my first listen. The part that gets me is her "Just back away and let me go" followed by his "I can't, my darling, I love you so." God, this one is heartrending if you've been through a difficult breakup; it paints such a realistic picture of the dissolution of a relationship.
Rhett Miller and Rachael Yamagata, "Fireflies"
Another sweet, wistful tune about love lost. I've loved both of these artists so fiercely for so many years now, it's no wonder I'm crazy about this duet.
Stars, "Your Ex-Lover Is Dead"
When I first heard these lyrics, I was dumbstruck; I was finally healing from a major heartbreak, and the song described so perfectly how I felt at that moment in time: "You were what I wanted / I gave what I gave / I'm not sorry I met you / I'm not sorry it's over / I'm not sorry there's nothing to save." I still feel that way, and the song still speaks to me as strongly as it did the first time I heard it.
Chairlift, "Bruises"
Pamie first brought this song to my attention a few months ago, and it makes me smile. It's as simple as that. Just a fun, sweet, swoony song. :)
Rachael Yamagata also sings a duet with Ray LaMontagne on her latest album (the song is called "Duet," naturally) that's absolutely stunning, but the only videos out there feature Rachael solo. That's obviously not a bad thing, but to get the full effect, you really need to listen to the original version of the song on the album.
Any other male/female duets I should add to my list?
Showing posts with label Recommendations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Recommendations. Show all posts
Friday, October 2, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
Catch-up...and a Monday music recommendation!
Hey, I have a blog! Whaddya know?
Sorry for the lapse in posting. I've been buried under a deluge of work, personal obligations, and, well, Twitter. (I have to blame Twitter here, just a little bit. It's the only way I can stay connected to the world these days.)
Since I last posted, I've traveled to Florida to surprise my friend Carley at her bridal shower (she's getting married this Saturday!), bought a new Nikon D60 and taken it out on a couple of test runs, and...completely and utterly failed to keep up with my fitness regimen. Damn. I knew that wouldn't last. BUT! I'm going to get back on track. See, there are these wooded hiking trails! And there's a bike to ride! And the dog needs walking! I need these exclamation points to get me motivated!
Outside of work and spending time with family, I've pretty much been confined to the computer screen (see?) and the TV (sad, I know). It's not all bad, though. Extensive couch time means I've been able to keep up with some of the best shows on TV right now (I'm looking at you, Breaking Bad and In Treatment... not to mention Lost. And the nonstop hilarity of How I Met Your Mother and new show Party Down). And I keep discovering new music, thanks to Twitter. Gotta love those Blip.fm recommendations!
Speaking of music, I finally caught up to the rest of the world and figured out that Amanda Fucking Palmer is a mad genius. I don't know what took me this long, but I'm now completely obsessed. Besotted, even. She's amazing - so creative and talented and fearless and strong and balls-out awesome. See for yourself:
"Leeds United"
"Oasis" (possibly the cheeriest song about date rape and abortion that you'll ever hear)
"Astronaut"
"What's the Use of Won'drin'?" (the video for this is so great)
Quick info on AFP: Amanda is one half of the piano-drums duo The Dresden Dolls (self-described as "punk cabaret;" she's the piano half). Ben Folds produced her solo album, Who Killed Amanda Palmer? (a riff on Twin Peaks's "Who Killed Laura Palmer?" tagline, dontcha know!), and Neil Gaiman is writing stories to accompany photos in her forthcoming book, also titled Who Killed Amanda Palmer? God...what can I say about this woman that hasn't already been said? I mean, she performed a cover of "Creep" in the back of a London taxicab (part of the utterly brilliant Black Cab Sessions) with a ukulele and a cast on her foot! Here are some great shots taken by Mind On Fire at the secret LA show she played recently for her Twitter fans.
Okay, last Amanda video, I promise! Here's her (brilliant) plea to be dropped from her record label, with whom she's famously clashed a few times:
Before I go, I have one last treat for you. Remember Snakes on a Plane? Well, here's the famous line...edited for TV. Oh, to be in the room when this line was conceived.
Seriously.
"I have had it with these monkey-fighting snakes on this Monday-to-Friday plane!"
Awesome.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Friday music recommendation #13
I love Twitter.
I admit, I was skeptical at first, but now I don't know what I'd do without it. It's how I get a lot of my news; it's how I keep up with some of my favorite actors and writers. It's where I find some of the best music, photos, videos, websites, recipes, and stories. And, of course, it's one of the many ways I can communicate with my wonderful, witty friends. All in 140 characters or less. Brevity is a beautiful thing.
I started out following only a few people, mostly people I know, but that number has climbed steadily; now I'm following nearly 90 people (...NINETY?!). I still don't quite know how that happened, and I spend far too much time reading everyone's posts (I still can't bring myself to call them 'tweets'), but this ever-evolving community of really cool people makes the time suck...kinda worth it. Really.
(This is supposed to be a music recommendation post, right? Right. On with the music!)
A couple weeks ago, actor John Cabrera posted a link to a song on Twitter, describing it as "Bowie-big." That piqued my curiosity, and, one listen later, led me to an instant obsession with a young Norwegian singer-songwriter named Sondre Lerche (such a lovely, lyrical name, don't you think?). Only 19 when his first album was released in 2002, he's since released four more, including a jazz album and a film soundtrack (for Dan in Real Life).
Overall, his sound tends toward the kind of sunny, dreamy, fun, and complex pop that I adore. I hear Beck, the Beatles, the Fratellis, and Elvis Costello in his voice and his song arrangements. I also hear jazz, swing, rock, bossa nova, '60s pop... just really interesting, varied, sophisticated, thoughtful songcraft that moves easily and assuredly from soft, sweet, melodic ballads to upbeat, rock-tinged pop. I love the music, but I'm also impressed by it. And did I mention that I love his voice? And his lovely falsetto?
Sigh. I think I'm in love.
What do you think?
"Two Way Monologue"
"On the Tower"
"My Hands Are Shaking"
"The Tape"
"Sleep on Needles"
"Phantom Punch"
I admit, I was skeptical at first, but now I don't know what I'd do without it. It's how I get a lot of my news; it's how I keep up with some of my favorite actors and writers. It's where I find some of the best music, photos, videos, websites, recipes, and stories. And, of course, it's one of the many ways I can communicate with my wonderful, witty friends. All in 140 characters or less. Brevity is a beautiful thing.
I started out following only a few people, mostly people I know, but that number has climbed steadily; now I'm following nearly 90 people (...NINETY?!). I still don't quite know how that happened, and I spend far too much time reading everyone's posts (I still can't bring myself to call them 'tweets'), but this ever-evolving community of really cool people makes the time suck...kinda worth it. Really.
(This is supposed to be a music recommendation post, right? Right. On with the music!)
A couple weeks ago, actor John Cabrera posted a link to a song on Twitter, describing it as "Bowie-big." That piqued my curiosity, and, one listen later, led me to an instant obsession with a young Norwegian singer-songwriter named Sondre Lerche (such a lovely, lyrical name, don't you think?). Only 19 when his first album was released in 2002, he's since released four more, including a jazz album and a film soundtrack (for Dan in Real Life).
Overall, his sound tends toward the kind of sunny, dreamy, fun, and complex pop that I adore. I hear Beck, the Beatles, the Fratellis, and Elvis Costello in his voice and his song arrangements. I also hear jazz, swing, rock, bossa nova, '60s pop... just really interesting, varied, sophisticated, thoughtful songcraft that moves easily and assuredly from soft, sweet, melodic ballads to upbeat, rock-tinged pop. I love the music, but I'm also impressed by it. And did I mention that I love his voice? And his lovely falsetto?
Sigh. I think I'm in love.
What do you think?
"Two Way Monologue"
"On the Tower"
"My Hands Are Shaking"
"The Tape"
"Sleep on Needles"
"Phantom Punch"
Friday, February 6, 2009
Friday music recommendation #12
I can't believe I haven't recommended this band before, but I checked, and nope -- no How I Became the Bomb anywhere in my archives. How can that be?
See, my dear friend Adam is in this band. And he's delightful. Delightful and very, very talented. The fact that he's combined forces with four other delightful, talented guys to create fun, eccentric, witty music just makes the world a better place, I think. They have quite the following in Nashville (their first EP, Let's Go!, did really well at the independent record stores there), and from what I understand, they put on a hell of a live show (sometimes with costumes! Sadly, I have yet to experience them live. Damn geography). I fully expect to see them headlining a major music festival some day. They're pretty awesome.
Enough preamble -- on with the music! Here are a few selections.
My current favorite: "Tomorrow's Date"
"Secret Identity"
"Bar Song"
"Salvage Mission"
"Mothership"
See, my dear friend Adam is in this band. And he's delightful. Delightful and very, very talented. The fact that he's combined forces with four other delightful, talented guys to create fun, eccentric, witty music just makes the world a better place, I think. They have quite the following in Nashville (their first EP, Let's Go!, did really well at the independent record stores there), and from what I understand, they put on a hell of a live show (sometimes with costumes! Sadly, I have yet to experience them live. Damn geography). I fully expect to see them headlining a major music festival some day. They're pretty awesome.
Enough preamble -- on with the music! Here are a few selections.
My current favorite: "Tomorrow's Date"
"Secret Identity"
"Bar Song"
"Salvage Mission"
"Mothership"
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Dinner
Tonight, we made Tahini Lemon Rice and Beans. And oh, was it ever divine. I made only a couple of modifications -- left out the seitan, added a teaspoon or so of Sriracha for heat and a couple chopped sun-dried tomatoes -- and it was the easiest, tastiest home-cooked meal I've had in weeks. I want to put that tahini-lemon sauce on everything now!
For anyone playing along at home, this is a fantastic way to get in your greens, whole grains/fiber, and protein while still swooning over your food. (Trust me, it's really that good). So glad I started cooking regularly again!
For anyone playing along at home, this is a fantastic way to get in your greens, whole grains/fiber, and protein while still swooning over your food. (Trust me, it's really that good). So glad I started cooking regularly again!
Friday, January 16, 2009
Friday music recommendation #11
It's been a while since I've posted one of these! I guess I got a little bogged down in more serious posting, but I'm ready to start the music series up again. I've been listening to a ton of new music in the last couple of months, so I have a lot to recommend. Let's start with Santogold.
Anyone who knows my taste in music might be a little surprised that I like an artist with such pronounced '80s/new wave and dance/electronica influences, but there's something entirely infectious about Santogold's music. It's kind of punk, kind of pop, kind of funk, and I can't seem to stop listening to it. Sometimes, her voice reminds me of Gwen Stefani's; other times, she sounds a little like Debbie Harry. But you really can't pigeonhole her -- she's a unique voice right now. Her first album just came out last year, so I'm looking forward to what should be an interesting career.
"Lights Out"
"L.E.S. Artistes"
"You'll Find a Way"
Anyone who knows my taste in music might be a little surprised that I like an artist with such pronounced '80s/new wave and dance/electronica influences, but there's something entirely infectious about Santogold's music. It's kind of punk, kind of pop, kind of funk, and I can't seem to stop listening to it. Sometimes, her voice reminds me of Gwen Stefani's; other times, she sounds a little like Debbie Harry. But you really can't pigeonhole her -- she's a unique voice right now. Her first album just came out last year, so I'm looking forward to what should be an interesting career.
"Lights Out"
"L.E.S. Artistes"
"You'll Find a Way"
Friday, October 24, 2008
Friday music recommendation #10
I didn't seek out much new music when I was younger. I pretty much absorbed other people's musical taste -- my dad's classic rock, my mom's alternative acts, and my college boyfriend's indie and alt country favorites. It wasn't until 2004 that I started actively seeking new music that I liked. It was a tough year from me -- a turning point for me in a lot of ways -- and I came out on the other side stronger, more sure of myself, unafraid to have my own opinions and tastes. Sounds kind of hokey, I know, but it was huge for me. I felt like my own person for the first time.
It was in the fall of 2004 that I discovered an artist that no one I knew had ever heard of: Rachael Yamagata. I heard one of her songs on a TV show, tracked down the album (Happenstance), and fell immediately in love with it. I felt so connected to that album. It became my personal soundtrack for the next 6 months, and I couldn't wait to see what she would do next. I was ecstatic when I found out that she collaborated with Rhett Miller (of Old 97's fame) on a couple of his solo songs. "Fireflies" is now one of my all-time favorite songs. But it wasn't until this year -- 4 years after she released her first album -- that she came out with a new project. Her new album, called Elephants...Teeth Sinking Into Heart, is totally worth the wait.
So why am I in love with Rachael? First, it's her voice. Husky, haunting, and rough around the edges. She imbues every song, whether upbeat or subdued, with a sultry, bluesy quality that I love. Second? Orchestration. Rachael herself plays the guitar and piano, and in addition to her quiet, contemplative ballads, she has these sweeping, epic, lushly arranged songs that employ entire string sections without sounding maudlin or overdone. She has such passion in her voice and her songwriting. Third? She just seems like a cool person. Her dad is a third-generation Japanese-American attorney, and her mom is a painter. She's fronted a funk band; she's collaborated with some of my favorite artists (including Bright Eyes). And once, after a sold-out gig in LA, she played in the alley behind the venue for the fans that couldn't get into the show. Check that out:
Rachael singing/playing "Sunday Afternoon" (acoustic guitar & cello):
"Sidedish Friend"
"Worn Me Down"
"1963"
"Elephants"
...and the song that started it all, "Be Be Your Love"
It was in the fall of 2004 that I discovered an artist that no one I knew had ever heard of: Rachael Yamagata. I heard one of her songs on a TV show, tracked down the album (Happenstance), and fell immediately in love with it. I felt so connected to that album. It became my personal soundtrack for the next 6 months, and I couldn't wait to see what she would do next. I was ecstatic when I found out that she collaborated with Rhett Miller (of Old 97's fame) on a couple of his solo songs. "Fireflies" is now one of my all-time favorite songs. But it wasn't until this year -- 4 years after she released her first album -- that she came out with a new project. Her new album, called Elephants...Teeth Sinking Into Heart, is totally worth the wait.
So why am I in love with Rachael? First, it's her voice. Husky, haunting, and rough around the edges. She imbues every song, whether upbeat or subdued, with a sultry, bluesy quality that I love. Second? Orchestration. Rachael herself plays the guitar and piano, and in addition to her quiet, contemplative ballads, she has these sweeping, epic, lushly arranged songs that employ entire string sections without sounding maudlin or overdone. She has such passion in her voice and her songwriting. Third? She just seems like a cool person. Her dad is a third-generation Japanese-American attorney, and her mom is a painter. She's fronted a funk band; she's collaborated with some of my favorite artists (including Bright Eyes). And once, after a sold-out gig in LA, she played in the alley behind the venue for the fans that couldn't get into the show. Check that out:
Rachael singing/playing "Sunday Afternoon" (acoustic guitar & cello):
"Sidedish Friend"
"Worn Me Down"
"1963"
"Elephants"
...and the song that started it all, "Be Be Your Love"
Friday, September 19, 2008
Friday music recommendation: '90s nostalgia edition, Pt. 1
Almost everyone listening to the radio around 1996 heard the song "Novocaine for the Soul" by the Eels. It was pretty ubiquitous, if I remember correctly, and I remember liking it. Not enough to buy their CD (I was but a poor 14-year-old back then), but well enough to listen to it any time it came on the radio. Now, 12 years later, having downloaded their greatest hits (Meet the Eels: Essential Eels, Vol. 1 (1996-2006)) in a fit of nostalgia, I realize just what I've been missing all these years. The Eels are awesome, and I can't believe it took me this long to realize that. Now I'm listening to them all the time. They're funny, inventive, and irreverent, and I love every weird second of it. This is essential listening, people! Hop on the nostalgia train!
"Novocaine for the Soul"
"Mr. E's Beautiful Blues"
"Love of the Loveless"
"Your Lucky Day in Hell"
"Last Stop: This Town"
"Souljacker Part 1"
"Trouble With Dreams"
"Novocaine for the Soul"
"Mr. E's Beautiful Blues"
"Love of the Loveless"
"Your Lucky Day in Hell"
"Last Stop: This Town"
"Souljacker Part 1"
"Trouble With Dreams"
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Bits and pieces
I grabbed some toothpaste last night whose purported flavor is "Empowermint." It was on sale, I was in a hurry, so I wasn't being particularly, well...particular. To my horror, however, I discovered that "Empowermint" is not minty so much as strongly reminiscent of Vick's VapoRub. Which, in turn, reminds me strongly of my late grandmother. Which is really creepy. I don't want to be thinking about my late grandmother every time I brush my teeth. I think I'm going to take it back.
I've been watching Friday Night Lights lately after my mom urged me to start watching. And wow, I don't know why I resisted it for so long. This is fantastic television -- extremely well-acted, well-written, natural, believable, and moving. I don't know why this show doesn't get more attention. It's seriously great. And could Tim Riggins (aka Taylor Kitsch) be any more lickable? Good lord, is that boy sex on toast.
I'm still mourning the end of my vacation in Portland, but at least there are pictures to remind me of the magic! Jay finally posted his awesome photos from the trip -- check them out!
One thing making the transition from Portland back to Dallas easier is the weather we've been having since Sunday. It's cool, breezy, and just sunny enough. Perfect, really. I just hope we don't go back to sauna temperatures before fall officially sets in. I love the idea of being able to take Callie for walks and sit in the backyard for hours, reading and listening to music.
One last thing: if you haven't installed the new iTunes, you're seriously missing out. Genius playlists are pretty awesome. You can choose any song from your library, click the Genius icon, and choose how many songs you want it to grab (from 25 to 100). Then sit back and watch while it matches the Eels with Filter, Beck, The White Stripes, The New Pornographers, and Fiona Apple, among others. I've created some pretty awesome playlists so far, with absolutely no effort required. If you're bored with your library or with Shuffle, this is a good way to reinvigorate your music.
Okay, one last last thing -- Pushing Daisies is coming back in 2 weeks! Whee!
I've been watching Friday Night Lights lately after my mom urged me to start watching. And wow, I don't know why I resisted it for so long. This is fantastic television -- extremely well-acted, well-written, natural, believable, and moving. I don't know why this show doesn't get more attention. It's seriously great. And could Tim Riggins (aka Taylor Kitsch) be any more lickable? Good lord, is that boy sex on toast.
I'm still mourning the end of my vacation in Portland, but at least there are pictures to remind me of the magic! Jay finally posted his awesome photos from the trip -- check them out!
One thing making the transition from Portland back to Dallas easier is the weather we've been having since Sunday. It's cool, breezy, and just sunny enough. Perfect, really. I just hope we don't go back to sauna temperatures before fall officially sets in. I love the idea of being able to take Callie for walks and sit in the backyard for hours, reading and listening to music.
One last thing: if you haven't installed the new iTunes, you're seriously missing out. Genius playlists are pretty awesome. You can choose any song from your library, click the Genius icon, and choose how many songs you want it to grab (from 25 to 100). Then sit back and watch while it matches the Eels with Filter, Beck, The White Stripes, The New Pornographers, and Fiona Apple, among others. I've created some pretty awesome playlists so far, with absolutely no effort required. If you're bored with your library or with Shuffle, this is a good way to reinvigorate your music.
Okay, one last last thing -- Pushing Daisies is coming back in 2 weeks! Whee!
Friday, September 12, 2008
Friday music recommendation: Portland edition
The first night I was in Portland, I got to see three local bands at a cool venue called the Doug Fir Lounge. To my surprise, I liked all three acts.
First up was Charmparticles (Myspace). They were very mellow, with pretty, dreamy songs that showcase lead singer Pamela Rooney's gorgeous voice. Beautiful stuff, the kind that makes you want to lie back and let the music wash over you while you daydream. They're available on Amazon - not sure about iTunes.
"Gold Plated Shot"
"Kohii"
Next up was Derby (Myspace), my favorite that night. Y'all know how much I love upbeat, poppy, fun music, and Derby perfectly fits that bill. Plus, the lead singer was really cute. Their sound is very Britpop, catchy and completely infectious. Again, their music is available on Amazon.
"This Conversation"
"If Ever There's a Reason"
The third band, Climber (Myspace), was the weirdest of the trio (in a good way, of course). With more electronic elements and some cool, unusual musical choices, they were reminiscent of Radiohead at times, The Polyphonic Spree at others. At the end of their set, they covered "Burning Down the House" and "Psycho Killer," which made the crowd go crazy. They have 3 albums available on Amazon. I could see this music becoming a favorite, though I gotta check out more.
"I Don't Exist"
First up was Charmparticles (Myspace). They were very mellow, with pretty, dreamy songs that showcase lead singer Pamela Rooney's gorgeous voice. Beautiful stuff, the kind that makes you want to lie back and let the music wash over you while you daydream. They're available on Amazon - not sure about iTunes.
"Gold Plated Shot"
"Kohii"
Next up was Derby (Myspace), my favorite that night. Y'all know how much I love upbeat, poppy, fun music, and Derby perfectly fits that bill. Plus, the lead singer was really cute. Their sound is very Britpop, catchy and completely infectious. Again, their music is available on Amazon.
"This Conversation"
"If Ever There's a Reason"
The third band, Climber (Myspace), was the weirdest of the trio (in a good way, of course). With more electronic elements and some cool, unusual musical choices, they were reminiscent of Radiohead at times, The Polyphonic Spree at others. At the end of their set, they covered "Burning Down the House" and "Psycho Killer," which made the crowd go crazy. They have 3 albums available on Amazon. I could see this music becoming a favorite, though I gotta check out more.
"I Don't Exist"
Friday, August 22, 2008
Friday music recommendation: Rock Band edition
Jay and I have been playing a lot more Rock Band lately. I'm getting pretty good at guitar, and Jay's kicking ass at drums (moving from Medium to Hard in a day!). We can't seem to stop downloading songs -- I think we're up to 95 or so total songs on the game (meaning we've downloaded 35-40...wow). Here are my favorites:
"My Iron Lung" (Radiohead) - strangely enough, this song played during a scene in the movie Clueless. It's beautiful and hypnotic (and really fun to play, too).
"Gimme Three Steps" (Lynyrd Skynyrd) - because I have such vivid memories of singing this with my dad growing up, learning all the words so I could join in.
"Still Alive" (GLaDOS) - "Anyway, this cake is great / It's so delicious and moist." Kills me every time. I didn't like this song until Jay gave me the backstory - the song runs during the end credits of a videogame called Portal, and it's the computer singing. Just watch the video below and read the lyrics. And laugh.
All the Boston songs (duh. I'm predictable.)
"The Greatest Man That Ever Lived" (Weezer) - I'm so obsessed with this song right now. It's freaking hilarious and SO fun to sing.
"Electric Version" (The New Pornographers) - I still don't understand half of their lyrics, but the songs are fabulous and so infectious.
"Snow ((Hey Oh))" (Red Hot Chili Peppers) - probably my favorite song from Stadium Arcadium.
"Reptilia" (The Strokes) - one I didn't know before we got the game, but it's grown on me in a major way. I love playing guitar on this one.
'90s songs on Rock Band that I have big nostalgic love for: "Black Hole Sun" (Soundgarden), "Say It Ain't So" (Weezer), "Interstate Love Song" (Stone Temple Pilots), "In Bloom" (Nirvana), "Vasoline" (Stone Temple Pilots)
Songs I can sing on Expert and get 100%: "Wave of Mutilation" (The Pixies), "More Than a Feeling" (Boston), "Dani California" (Red Hot Chili Peppers), "Snow ((Hey Oh))" (Red Hot Chili Peppers), "Maps" (Yeah Yeah Yeahs). I'm *thisclose* to getting 100% on "Say It Ain't So," "Interstate Love Song," "Sex Type Thing," and a couple others. I'm a perfectionist, so I'm obsessed with getting as many 100%s as possible. It's a sickness.
"My Iron Lung" (Radiohead) - strangely enough, this song played during a scene in the movie Clueless. It's beautiful and hypnotic (and really fun to play, too).
"Gimme Three Steps" (Lynyrd Skynyrd) - because I have such vivid memories of singing this with my dad growing up, learning all the words so I could join in.
"Still Alive" (GLaDOS) - "Anyway, this cake is great / It's so delicious and moist." Kills me every time. I didn't like this song until Jay gave me the backstory - the song runs during the end credits of a videogame called Portal, and it's the computer singing. Just watch the video below and read the lyrics. And laugh.
All the Boston songs (duh. I'm predictable.)
"The Greatest Man That Ever Lived" (Weezer) - I'm so obsessed with this song right now. It's freaking hilarious and SO fun to sing.
"Electric Version" (The New Pornographers) - I still don't understand half of their lyrics, but the songs are fabulous and so infectious.
"Snow ((Hey Oh))" (Red Hot Chili Peppers) - probably my favorite song from Stadium Arcadium.
"Reptilia" (The Strokes) - one I didn't know before we got the game, but it's grown on me in a major way. I love playing guitar on this one.
'90s songs on Rock Band that I have big nostalgic love for: "Black Hole Sun" (Soundgarden), "Say It Ain't So" (Weezer), "Interstate Love Song" (Stone Temple Pilots), "In Bloom" (Nirvana), "Vasoline" (Stone Temple Pilots)
Songs I can sing on Expert and get 100%: "Wave of Mutilation" (The Pixies), "More Than a Feeling" (Boston), "Dani California" (Red Hot Chili Peppers), "Snow ((Hey Oh))" (Red Hot Chili Peppers), "Maps" (Yeah Yeah Yeahs). I'm *thisclose* to getting 100% on "Say It Ain't So," "Interstate Love Song," "Sex Type Thing," and a couple others. I'm a perfectionist, so I'm obsessed with getting as many 100%s as possible. It's a sickness.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Friday music recommendation #9
I grew up listening to classic rock. Both my parents are music fanatics who were lucky enough to grow up during the '60s and '70s, the golden age of rock music, and the bands they listened to -- bands like Zeppelin, Cream, the Allman Brothers, The Who, Pink Floyd -- are bands I listen to, and love, today. So imagine my excitement when my brother introduced me to a band that sounds exactly like the best bands of the '70s. And then imagine my glee when I discovered that Robert Plant is a fan of this band (other fans? ZZ Top, Radiohead, Arctic Monkeys, and Metallica).
Enough preamble: if you aren't listening to The Black Keys already, now's your chance. I swear, this music is straight out of 1975, and I mean that in the best possible way. How two dudes from Akron, Ohio can channel such an authentic blues-rock sound three decades later is a happy mystery. Magic Potion and Thickfreakness are my favorites of their five studio albums so far, but I have a lot of listening ahead of me before I name a definitive favorite. Oh man, and you can tell they would put on such a kick-ass live show; I can't wait to see them in September.
Ok, I'm gushing here, but I am so smitten with this music. Check it out:
"Just Got to Be"
"Your Touch"
(Here's the same song, this time performed at the hands-down best record store in Nashville, Grimey's.)
"Stack Shot Billy"
"Strange Times"
"Set You Free"
Enough preamble: if you aren't listening to The Black Keys already, now's your chance. I swear, this music is straight out of 1975, and I mean that in the best possible way. How two dudes from Akron, Ohio can channel such an authentic blues-rock sound three decades later is a happy mystery. Magic Potion and Thickfreakness are my favorites of their five studio albums so far, but I have a lot of listening ahead of me before I name a definitive favorite. Oh man, and you can tell they would put on such a kick-ass live show; I can't wait to see them in September.
Ok, I'm gushing here, but I am so smitten with this music. Check it out:
"Just Got to Be"
"Your Touch"
(Here's the same song, this time performed at the hands-down best record store in Nashville, Grimey's.)
"Stack Shot Billy"
"Strange Times"
"Set You Free"
Friday, July 18, 2008
Friday music recommendation #8
Ahh, The Fratellis. I remember when I first heard "Flathead" and "Henrietta" and got that warm, happy, giddy feeling of hearing good, infectious music for the first time and knowing somehow that you're going to be listening to it for a long time to come. These guys make great, frenetic, fun songs that make you want to dance even though you really don't like to dance, and they're Scottish to boot. Gotta love an accent. Plus all the clapping and the "la la"s and "ahh"s make me grin so hard my face hurts.
They've only been performing since 2005, so they're a fairly new band, and they're really only well known in the UK, which is a bummer. Their song "Flathead" was in iPod ads for a while last year, but it failed to ignite their popularity here. For shame, America! Embrace the Fratelli magic! It'll make you feel good, I promise! Behold:
"Flathead"
"Henrietta"
"Creepin' Up the Backstairs"
"Cuntry Boys & City Girls" (yes, that's how they spell it)
"Ole Black 'n' Blue Eyes" (how cute is this video?!)
Also check out "For the Girl." And "Cigarello." And, hell, all of it. They're fun.
They've only been performing since 2005, so they're a fairly new band, and they're really only well known in the UK, which is a bummer. Their song "Flathead" was in iPod ads for a while last year, but it failed to ignite their popularity here. For shame, America! Embrace the Fratelli magic! It'll make you feel good, I promise! Behold:
"Flathead"
"Henrietta"
"Creepin' Up the Backstairs"
"Cuntry Boys & City Girls" (yes, that's how they spell it)
"Ole Black 'n' Blue Eyes" (how cute is this video?!)
Also check out "For the Girl." And "Cigarello." And, hell, all of it. They're fun.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Friday music recommendation #7
Today's band -- Georgie James -- has only released one album, but you should definitely give it a listen. That album, Places, ended up being one of my very favorite albums of last year. I first heard their song "Cake Parade" on my friend Lauren's Myspace page and was instantly smitten; it's such a lovely, quietly devastating song. I don't normally post full song lyrics, but these get me every single time:
"The sun is up, looks like a perfect day
to put our soldiers on a cake parade
We can line them up and march them down the hall
where they can play at guns and we don't have to look at all
Another sailor sleeping well today,
another mother misses her lonely son's birthday
His bed is empty, not sure where he'd gone
with his All Stars and Nirvana t-shirt on
And if we try to raise their memory,
you know it makes no difference
They'll send our boys for boot camp fun
and teach them to be men
[CHORUS]
If the sun could shine on us always,
we'd go blind,
but for all the rain in sight
you know i wouldn't mind
The sun is gone, looks like a perfect day
to put our soldiers in an early grave
We can line them up and lay them on the lawn
with all their Purple Hearts and badges of courage on
And if we try to raise their memory,
you know it's only second best
to all the boys who never will,
who never will be men
[CHORUS]
If the sun could shine on us always,
we'd be fine,
and just to see him one more time,
you know i wouldn't mind
We'll send you hands of shining stars
so you can fill your pretty globe
and navigate the seashell graves
and safely
find your way home"
The rest of the songs on Places are pretty and poppy, the kind of music you listen to when you're in need of a pick-me-up. It's music to bop your head to, music that feels like all the best parts of spring and summer. You'll find great harmonies, upbeat tempos, and catchy melodies here -- nothing dark or depressing, I promise.
"Need Your Needs"
"The sun is up, looks like a perfect day
to put our soldiers on a cake parade
We can line them up and march them down the hall
where they can play at guns and we don't have to look at all
Another sailor sleeping well today,
another mother misses her lonely son's birthday
His bed is empty, not sure where he'd gone
with his All Stars and Nirvana t-shirt on
And if we try to raise their memory,
you know it makes no difference
They'll send our boys for boot camp fun
and teach them to be men
[CHORUS]
If the sun could shine on us always,
we'd go blind,
but for all the rain in sight
you know i wouldn't mind
The sun is gone, looks like a perfect day
to put our soldiers in an early grave
We can line them up and lay them on the lawn
with all their Purple Hearts and badges of courage on
And if we try to raise their memory,
you know it's only second best
to all the boys who never will,
who never will be men
[CHORUS]
If the sun could shine on us always,
we'd be fine,
and just to see him one more time,
you know i wouldn't mind
We'll send you hands of shining stars
so you can fill your pretty globe
and navigate the seashell graves
and safely
find your way home"
The rest of the songs on Places are pretty and poppy, the kind of music you listen to when you're in need of a pick-me-up. It's music to bop your head to, music that feels like all the best parts of spring and summer. You'll find great harmonies, upbeat tempos, and catchy melodies here -- nothing dark or depressing, I promise.
"Need Your Needs"
"Long Week"
"Look Me Up"
"Places"
You should also check out "More Lights" on their Myspace page -- it's another great song that I can't seem to find in full on YouTube.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Friday music recommendation #6
This Friday: The Decemberists. A friend put one of their songs, "The Engine Driver," on a mix CD for me ages ago, and despite really liking it, I didn't check out any of their other music for over a year. Shame on me! I finally bought The Crane Wife last year and love it, but I still haven't downloaded any of their other 3 albums. Shame on me again!
The Decemberists' music has a narrative quality - they like to tell stories, often weird ones, often using words that'll make you reach for your dictionary. They're multi-instrumentalists, too, so you'll find accordion, string bass, organ, piano, and melodica in addition to guitar, bass guitar, and drums. I don't really know how to describe their sound, so I think you should just listen for yourselves:
"When the War Came"
"The Perfect Crime #2"
"The Engine Driver"
"The Crane Wife 3"
The Decemberists' music has a narrative quality - they like to tell stories, often weird ones, often using words that'll make you reach for your dictionary. They're multi-instrumentalists, too, so you'll find accordion, string bass, organ, piano, and melodica in addition to guitar, bass guitar, and drums. I don't really know how to describe their sound, so I think you should just listen for yourselves:
"When the War Came"
"The Perfect Crime #2"
"The Engine Driver"
"The Crane Wife 3"
Friday, June 20, 2008
Friday music recommendation #5
I know I skipped a week -- sorry! Last week was a bit stressful, but this week has been slightly better, so I'm ready to highlight yet another band you may not have heard of yet. Meet My Morning Jacket.
I only found their music two weeks ago, but so far, I'm really excited about it. Right now, I'm partial to 2005's Z, but their newest album, Evil Urges (released June 10th) is wonderful, too. To me, they're kind of a hybrid of Radiohead, The Flaming Lips, and Wilco, which is interesting since those three bands' sounds differ so much. MMJ's music dabbles in all kinds of genres - rock, funk, pop, psychedelic, and country, just to name a few - and it's no wonder they're garnering so much critical acclaim. They're seriously talented guys. I'd love to see them live.
Their star is rising right now, with recent performances on Conan, Dave, and Saturday Night Live as well as sets at SXSW, Coachella, and Bonnaroo (where they played a four-hour set in the rain that has earned rave reviews from those who attended). From what I hear, they put on an amazing, balls-out, energetic live show. Apparently, they're even performing this New Year's Eve in Madison Square Garden.
Here are some of my favorite songs so far:
"Touch Me I'm Going to Scream Pt. 2" (performed in the back of a London taxi as part of the series Black Cab Sessions. The omnichord is freaking cool.)
"What a Wonderful Man"
"Evil Urges"
"Wordless Chorus"
"Dondante"
"Aluminum Park"
I only found their music two weeks ago, but so far, I'm really excited about it. Right now, I'm partial to 2005's Z, but their newest album, Evil Urges (released June 10th) is wonderful, too. To me, they're kind of a hybrid of Radiohead, The Flaming Lips, and Wilco, which is interesting since those three bands' sounds differ so much. MMJ's music dabbles in all kinds of genres - rock, funk, pop, psychedelic, and country, just to name a few - and it's no wonder they're garnering so much critical acclaim. They're seriously talented guys. I'd love to see them live.
Their star is rising right now, with recent performances on Conan, Dave, and Saturday Night Live as well as sets at SXSW, Coachella, and Bonnaroo (where they played a four-hour set in the rain that has earned rave reviews from those who attended). From what I hear, they put on an amazing, balls-out, energetic live show. Apparently, they're even performing this New Year's Eve in Madison Square Garden.
Here are some of my favorite songs so far:
"Touch Me I'm Going to Scream Pt. 2" (performed in the back of a London taxi as part of the series Black Cab Sessions. The omnichord is freaking cool.)
"What a Wonderful Man"
"Evil Urges"
"Wordless Chorus"
"Dondante"
"Aluminum Park"
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Starting Out in the Evening
What a lovely, perfect movie. I fell deeper in love with it minute by minute, and the more I thought about it afterward, the more it resonated with me. The acting is fantastic, especially the performances by Frank Langella and Lili Taylor (though Lauren Ambrose and Adrian Lester are wonderful as well). The characters are complex and well-shaded, and the parallels between the two main stories are subtle, yet well drawn. It's heartbreaking, but simultaneously uplifting -- just a quiet, sad, intimate story that makes you think long after its conclusion.
The plot concerns an aging, frail novelist named Leonard Schiller whose works have slowly faded into obscurity over the years (in fact, they're mostly out of print). An ambitious, eager grad student named Heather, whose personal investment in Schiller's works has developed into something like infatuation, has decided to write her master's thesis on his novels, with the intent of reviving interest in his literary achievements. Meanwhile, Schiller's adult daughter struggles with her desire for children as she nears middle age and re-embarks on a relationship with a former lover who doesn't share her dreams.
What follows is a profound meditation on self-worth, happiness, hope, the indignities of age, the decline of the literary age, the nature of love, and the meaning of freedom. The characters' struggles are beautifully rendered and, most importantly, realistic. I particularly liked the honest portrayal of romantic relationships, which proved that love is not all you need. Love is a wonderful thing, but true compatibility is what really matters -- finding someone who's fundamentally right for you. I also really enjoyed the exploration of selfishness versus self-abdication, and that middle road of selflessness that you can occupy without giving up your sense of self. Kudos to Adrian Lester and Lili Taylor for fleshing out such an essential story.
Starting Over also highlighted the sad scarcity of literature in a world of instantaneous, mindless entertainment. There's such a small market for literary fiction these days; it seems like celebrity tell-alls and self-help books are the only books that sell. I love this movie for making literature feel essential again. It made me feel that thrill of discovery that great novels spark in me.
I wish more movies would strive for such emotional honesty and effortless storytelling. I'm all for mindless entertainment (Iron Man, for instance, which was hugely enjoyable), but there's something to be said for a film that sparks philosophical debates and also feels like having a warm, intimate conversation with a friend over hot cocoa.
The plot concerns an aging, frail novelist named Leonard Schiller whose works have slowly faded into obscurity over the years (in fact, they're mostly out of print). An ambitious, eager grad student named Heather, whose personal investment in Schiller's works has developed into something like infatuation, has decided to write her master's thesis on his novels, with the intent of reviving interest in his literary achievements. Meanwhile, Schiller's adult daughter struggles with her desire for children as she nears middle age and re-embarks on a relationship with a former lover who doesn't share her dreams.
What follows is a profound meditation on self-worth, happiness, hope, the indignities of age, the decline of the literary age, the nature of love, and the meaning of freedom. The characters' struggles are beautifully rendered and, most importantly, realistic. I particularly liked the honest portrayal of romantic relationships, which proved that love is not all you need. Love is a wonderful thing, but true compatibility is what really matters -- finding someone who's fundamentally right for you. I also really enjoyed the exploration of selfishness versus self-abdication, and that middle road of selflessness that you can occupy without giving up your sense of self. Kudos to Adrian Lester and Lili Taylor for fleshing out such an essential story.
Starting Over also highlighted the sad scarcity of literature in a world of instantaneous, mindless entertainment. There's such a small market for literary fiction these days; it seems like celebrity tell-alls and self-help books are the only books that sell. I love this movie for making literature feel essential again. It made me feel that thrill of discovery that great novels spark in me.
I wish more movies would strive for such emotional honesty and effortless storytelling. I'm all for mindless entertainment (Iron Man, for instance, which was hugely enjoyable), but there's something to be said for a film that sparks philosophical debates and also feels like having a warm, intimate conversation with a friend over hot cocoa.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Friday music recommendation #4
I'm sure everyone's heard at least one of Suzanne Vega's songs. "Tom's Diner" is the one most people know (fun fact: it's about Tom's Restaurant in New York, the same diner you see in Seinfeld), though "Caramel," below, is a close second.
"Caramel"
Highly literate music like hers appeals to the English major in me, I think (fun fact #2: Suzanne Vega was an English major, too). I like songs that draw you in to another world. Songs that tell interesting stories. And Suzanne's music doesn't rely on vocal embellishments or overly ornamental arrangements to capture your interest. For the most part, her songs are simply structured and straightforward; her voice is clear and distinct, without even vibrato to give it a stylistic flourish. It's incredible how the tiniest inspiration -- like a torn poster hanging from a wall, as in "Headshots" -- can become a fascinating vignette in her hands. Sometimes, listening to her music, I feel like I'm reading a book of short stories instead of listening to an album.
My favorite Suzanne Vega album -- the one I bought on a whim in a used bookstore 4 years ago -- is Nine Objects of Desire (check out "Stockings," "My Favorite Plum," and "Honeymoon Suite" for starters). 99.9F is also a great album (see the three songs below), and I'm liking her latest, Beauty and Crime, so far. I hope she keeps making unique music for many, many years.
"Blood Makes Noise"
In Liverpool
99.9 F
"Caramel"
Highly literate music like hers appeals to the English major in me, I think (fun fact #2: Suzanne Vega was an English major, too). I like songs that draw you in to another world. Songs that tell interesting stories. And Suzanne's music doesn't rely on vocal embellishments or overly ornamental arrangements to capture your interest. For the most part, her songs are simply structured and straightforward; her voice is clear and distinct, without even vibrato to give it a stylistic flourish. It's incredible how the tiniest inspiration -- like a torn poster hanging from a wall, as in "Headshots" -- can become a fascinating vignette in her hands. Sometimes, listening to her music, I feel like I'm reading a book of short stories instead of listening to an album.
My favorite Suzanne Vega album -- the one I bought on a whim in a used bookstore 4 years ago -- is Nine Objects of Desire (check out "Stockings," "My Favorite Plum," and "Honeymoon Suite" for starters). 99.9F is also a great album (see the three songs below), and I'm liking her latest, Beauty and Crime, so far. I hope she keeps making unique music for many, many years.
"Blood Makes Noise"
In Liverpool
99.9 F
Friday, May 30, 2008
Friday music recommendation #3
How has it been a week already since my last recommendation? I know it was a short work week due to the holiday, but still! I'd like this whole 'passage of time' thing to take a little breather. It's bumming me out.
Today, I'm going to recommend a band I just discovered a couple months ago through a glowing review of their latest album, Lust Lust Lust. They're a Danish duo called The Raveonettes. Their sound is really interesting -- a lot of dark, sleepy vocals, pretty harmonies, and electronic noise. The songs are deceptively simple, repetitive and almost trance-like, but they're built so expertly that you find yourself completely enthralled. The arrangements are spectacular, sparse and sexy; this is great atmospheric music. It would most certainly be great mood music for an intimate party. Here are three of my favorite songs from Lust Lust Lust - enjoy!
"Aly, Walk With Me"
"Dead Sound"
"Lust"
Today, I'm going to recommend a band I just discovered a couple months ago through a glowing review of their latest album, Lust Lust Lust. They're a Danish duo called The Raveonettes. Their sound is really interesting -- a lot of dark, sleepy vocals, pretty harmonies, and electronic noise. The songs are deceptively simple, repetitive and almost trance-like, but they're built so expertly that you find yourself completely enthralled. The arrangements are spectacular, sparse and sexy; this is great atmospheric music. It would most certainly be great mood music for an intimate party. Here are three of my favorite songs from Lust Lust Lust - enjoy!
"Aly, Walk With Me"
"Dead Sound"
"Lust"
Friday, May 23, 2008
Friday music recommendation #2
Thanks to a song that came up on shuffle this morning, my planned Friday music recommendation had to be scrapped. Because of that song -- which almost made me forget that I was on my way to work -- I had to come here and give some love to one of my favorite bands of the last couple years. OK Go, please step into the spotlight.
Remember "Here It Goes Again," and the video with the treadmills? Oh, that's only the beginning of the awesomeness. I bought that album, Oh No, and couldn't stop listening to it for months. Then I discovered their first, self-titled album, and while it took me a little while to warm to it, I think I like it even better than their second now. How can you resist insanely catchy songs like "Don't Ask Me"? (Perfect for the dreaded morning commute!)
...or "Get Over It"?
...Then there's the unabashedly dorky dancing on "A Million Ways." I love that these guys don't take themselves too seriously. It's kinda hard these days to find artists who aren't annoyingly self-important.
I could add videos all day, but if you like what you hear here, check out "It's A Disaster," "Let It Rain," and "Crash the Party," too. And don't resist the urge to do a little dorky dance.
Remember "Here It Goes Again," and the video with the treadmills? Oh, that's only the beginning of the awesomeness. I bought that album, Oh No, and couldn't stop listening to it for months. Then I discovered their first, self-titled album, and while it took me a little while to warm to it, I think I like it even better than their second now. How can you resist insanely catchy songs like "Don't Ask Me"? (Perfect for the dreaded morning commute!)
...or "Get Over It"?
...Then there's the unabashedly dorky dancing on "A Million Ways." I love that these guys don't take themselves too seriously. It's kinda hard these days to find artists who aren't annoyingly self-important.
I could add videos all day, but if you like what you hear here, check out "It's A Disaster," "Let It Rain," and "Crash the Party," too. And don't resist the urge to do a little dorky dance.
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