RIYL: Of Monsters & Men, The Temper Trap The Shins, The XX
I'm not posting about an electronic group! Whaaatttt
I just discovered Milo Greene and I am in love. It's that mainstream pop-y folk sound which I'm pretty sure you hate, but I don't even care. This is what I like and I AM NOT ASHAMED. Milo Greene's music is perfect easy summer listening. The vocals have male and female harmonization, and both voices are soft yet so fluid. The music is very acoustic/ simply based, but I like that so I can focus more heavily on the harmonies and lyrics
Here is their most popular hit, "1957"
It's so good. I just can't.
"Don't You Give Up on Me"
This one focuses more heavily on the male vocals. The music is a bit stronger in this one, the sound reminds me a lot of Temper Trap.
"What's The Matter"
This one is a bit tripper in the beginning, with some irregular instruments and such. This one is what gave me the XX vibe with the guitar rhythm.
This is probably the fastest I have ever fell in love with a band, I usually have to warm up to a new artist. Maybe it's because this music is suited to my mainstream ears? I'm not sure. All I know is that I am a happy listener.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Monday, May 27, 2013
Neon Indian
RIYL: Pretty much all of the other electronic artists I have posted about
Neon Indian has been around for a while, and I had heard people talking about them, but I have never given them a listen until this past month. My Dad refuses technology and iTunes, and instead goes onto amazon and buys himself a new CD once a month or so to be his soundtrack for his drives to work and what not. Right now he is jammin to Daft Punk's new album and Phoenix's 'Bankrupt!", so he gave me his Neon Indian CD "Era Extrana" now that he's thoroughly soaked it in.
So, I think I like them. Some of their music gets a little out there and I lose focus and interest, but overall I am a fan.
My fav, and their most popular hit, "Polish Girl"
A catchy, repetitive little techno beat, a smooth voice, what's not to like.
This track is not on "Era Extrana", but it's also a fave.
Once again, there are the funky techno notes. Very passion pit- esque, which I love love love.
And my other favorite is "Fallout"
This track is a little slower with a slightly different sound, which I dig because without versatility I get real tired of bands, real fast.
So, I'm not in love with Neon Indian, but I hope to follow their work and keep listening for more.
Neon Indian has been around for a while, and I had heard people talking about them, but I have never given them a listen until this past month. My Dad refuses technology and iTunes, and instead goes onto amazon and buys himself a new CD once a month or so to be his soundtrack for his drives to work and what not. Right now he is jammin to Daft Punk's new album and Phoenix's 'Bankrupt!", so he gave me his Neon Indian CD "Era Extrana" now that he's thoroughly soaked it in.
So, I think I like them. Some of their music gets a little out there and I lose focus and interest, but overall I am a fan.
My fav, and their most popular hit, "Polish Girl"
A catchy, repetitive little techno beat, a smooth voice, what's not to like.
This track is not on "Era Extrana", but it's also a fave.
Once again, there are the funky techno notes. Very passion pit- esque, which I love love love.
And my other favorite is "Fallout"
This track is a little slower with a slightly different sound, which I dig because without versatility I get real tired of bands, real fast.
So, I'm not in love with Neon Indian, but I hope to follow their work and keep listening for more.
Green Day Dookie
Green Day reminds me of my middle school angst days, complemented by the soundtracks of Lincoln Park and Blink 182.
I'm sorry, but this album really doesn't do a lot for me. The only songs I had heard previously were "Basket Case" and "When I Come Around", which I will admit that I like and find catchy, but they are not tracks I would listen to on my own time.
I think this album majorly lacks versatility: Although the songs may have different titles, lyrics, etc., I find they ultimately end up at the same chord progression and loud singing/ drum combo that makes me glad I'm not in my angst phase anymore. Dookie was their 3rd album or so too, correct? I would hope that by now they would be at least slightly branching out to different sounds.
My favorite Green Day album overall was American Idiot.
Oh hello Boulevard of Broken Dreams
I definitely know every single lyric to that song. It's catchy, relatable, just angsty enough to be a huge hit.
I think that overtime, Green Day definitely progressed and got that hint of diversity it need to keep their music interesting, but all in all, not a significant band for me.
I'm sorry, but this album really doesn't do a lot for me. The only songs I had heard previously were "Basket Case" and "When I Come Around", which I will admit that I like and find catchy, but they are not tracks I would listen to on my own time.
I think this album majorly lacks versatility: Although the songs may have different titles, lyrics, etc., I find they ultimately end up at the same chord progression and loud singing/ drum combo that makes me glad I'm not in my angst phase anymore. Dookie was their 3rd album or so too, correct? I would hope that by now they would be at least slightly branching out to different sounds.
My favorite Green Day album overall was American Idiot.
Oh hello Boulevard of Broken Dreams
I definitely know every single lyric to that song. It's catchy, relatable, just angsty enough to be a huge hit.
I think that overtime, Green Day definitely progressed and got that hint of diversity it need to keep their music interesting, but all in all, not a significant band for me.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Kavinsky
RIYL: Justice, Daft Punk, Crystal Castles
So, in short, Kavinsky is slower techno-y music. The album "Nightcall" is like thriller gone techno, there's like some horror elements in it and it's real weird but I like it.
That was good right? However, this is a mix of that song that I like even better.
This version has a bit more of a pop-vibe to it, I think it's faster and more upbeat, which is a common trend I find in songs that I like.
Okay, this one is so daft-y, I love it
Kavinsky's most famous track, "Nightcall" itself, it's good but once again, slow for my taste
I'm not in love with Kavinsky by any means, but hey, I'm exploring and trying to find new artists. Kavinsky fits my stereotypical techno-based music preference, but there's nothing absolutely groundbreaking about Kavinksy's sound. I would be interested to see Kavinsky add some vocal tracks or some sort of lyrics into later albums. That would be something new.
So, in short, Kavinsky is slower techno-y music. The album "Nightcall" is like thriller gone techno, there's like some horror elements in it and it's real weird but I like it.
That was good right? However, this is a mix of that song that I like even better.
This version has a bit more of a pop-vibe to it, I think it's faster and more upbeat, which is a common trend I find in songs that I like.
Okay, this one is so daft-y, I love it
Kavinsky's most famous track, "Nightcall" itself, it's good but once again, slow for my taste
I'm not in love with Kavinsky by any means, but hey, I'm exploring and trying to find new artists. Kavinsky fits my stereotypical techno-based music preference, but there's nothing absolutely groundbreaking about Kavinksy's sound. I would be interested to see Kavinsky add some vocal tracks or some sort of lyrics into later albums. That would be something new.
Massive Attack
This is the most unsure I think I have ever been on a genre of music ever. There are some elements of this trip-hop business that I really like, but then other parts are like what.
Okay, I suppose I do like it a lot. In regards to Massive Attack specifically, I really like the female lead's voice, it's high yet a bit raspy, which I find very unique and alluring. I also really like a majority of the basic beats to the songs. However, I feel like they drag and they make me feel like I am moving in slow motion. But, I also am not under the influence of any drugs presently, so I guess it's all in the ears of the listener.
I don't think we listened to this track in class, but I diggin "Paradise Circus"
This track has a strong focus on the vocals, which I am in to, as I previously stated. It's a bit slow, but still catchy.
Angel is a great one
I remember being really mesmerized when we listened to this track with the visual audio synthesizer or whatever that digital firework machine is called. This song has a lot of variety within itself, or I feel like it is almost several songs that kind of blur into one.
Okay, but I also hate this song kind of.
This song is basically just noise to me. I'm also not a huge fun of the male vocals in this track. It's like overly-mixed middle eastern music and I'm not into it.
So, in conclusion, I think I like Massive Attack, but I am also scared by it. This is a classic Die Antwoord situation, I'm afraid yet so intrigued.
Okay, I suppose I do like it a lot. In regards to Massive Attack specifically, I really like the female lead's voice, it's high yet a bit raspy, which I find very unique and alluring. I also really like a majority of the basic beats to the songs. However, I feel like they drag and they make me feel like I am moving in slow motion. But, I also am not under the influence of any drugs presently, so I guess it's all in the ears of the listener.
I don't think we listened to this track in class, but I diggin "Paradise Circus"
This track has a strong focus on the vocals, which I am in to, as I previously stated. It's a bit slow, but still catchy.
Angel is a great one
I remember being really mesmerized when we listened to this track with the visual audio synthesizer or whatever that digital firework machine is called. This song has a lot of variety within itself, or I feel like it is almost several songs that kind of blur into one.
Okay, but I also hate this song kind of.
This song is basically just noise to me. I'm also not a huge fun of the male vocals in this track. It's like overly-mixed middle eastern music and I'm not into it.
So, in conclusion, I think I like Massive Attack, but I am also scared by it. This is a classic Die Antwoord situation, I'm afraid yet so intrigued.
Friday, May 10, 2013
WU TANG SUCKA
I like the Wu Tang Clan, but I fear I'm far too white and sheltered to appreciate them fully. This isn't really music I would listen to during my free time. I find their music focuses too much on their lyrics for me. Although I can acknowledge they are lyrical geniuses and can spit fire, I enjoy my music with a strong beat or something to at least sway/ dance to. This is more of a head-bobber.
I didn't know Wu Tang Clan very well before we listened to them in class, but one thing I noticed was a TON of samples I recognize from other hip hop songs/ mash ups
The piano riff in this song I've def heard a million times before.
Def heard this refrain before
And this is the only song I recognize as it's own work/ have heard before as a whole
I want to like this! I really do! It is just so slow and different from most hip hop.
I didn't know Wu Tang Clan very well before we listened to them in class, but one thing I noticed was a TON of samples I recognize from other hip hop songs/ mash ups
The piano riff in this song I've def heard a million times before.
Def heard this refrain before
And this is the only song I recognize as it's own work/ have heard before as a whole
I want to like this! I really do! It is just so slow and different from most hip hop.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
D.veloped
RIYL: Girl Talk, Supermash Bros
Mashups: Ya love em or you hate em. I, personally, am a lover. I think it roots from my Music ADD, I typically have about 8 songs stuck in my head at any given moment.
D.Veloped is a mashup DJ who samples a lot of very current/ pop-y tracks and allows them to blend harmoniously. I am a die hard Girl Talk fan, so while I do think Girl Talk is a better DJ/ puts out higher quality tracks, D.veloped isn't half bad. The main difference in their sounds, in my opinion is that girl talk does a better job of actually overlapping the tracks, while D.veloped sometimes just does individual snippets of songs and plays them back to back. Both are good, it's just personal preference.
Here's a video link to the full album "Work Party", its 39 minutes and although it's divided into separate tracks, they all blend into one big track.
AND HERE'S THE BEAUTY OF THIS POST:
If you like "D.veloped" on facebook, you can download this album for free. That's right, everyone, I'M DIRECTING YOU TO FREE MUSIC. Damn, I am such a good person.
Here are some more individual links if you want to do more listening:
Also, quick aside, not thrilled with ACL Line up. All great bands-- that I have already seen perform at ACL in previous years. Lil' cranky. That is all.
Mashups: Ya love em or you hate em. I, personally, am a lover. I think it roots from my Music ADD, I typically have about 8 songs stuck in my head at any given moment.
D.Veloped is a mashup DJ who samples a lot of very current/ pop-y tracks and allows them to blend harmoniously. I am a die hard Girl Talk fan, so while I do think Girl Talk is a better DJ/ puts out higher quality tracks, D.veloped isn't half bad. The main difference in their sounds, in my opinion is that girl talk does a better job of actually overlapping the tracks, while D.veloped sometimes just does individual snippets of songs and plays them back to back. Both are good, it's just personal preference.
Here's a video link to the full album "Work Party", its 39 minutes and although it's divided into separate tracks, they all blend into one big track.
AND HERE'S THE BEAUTY OF THIS POST:
If you like "D.veloped" on facebook, you can download this album for free. That's right, everyone, I'M DIRECTING YOU TO FREE MUSIC. Damn, I am such a good person.
Here are some more individual links if you want to do more listening:
Also, quick aside, not thrilled with ACL Line up. All great bands-- that I have already seen perform at ACL in previous years. Lil' cranky. That is all.
Friday, May 3, 2013
RHCP
If we're being real, I really wasn't a huge fan of this album. I'm not that into heavy rock, and I feel like RHCP became a lot more soft and well, pop-y as the developed further on which is why I am a fan of their later work.
The only songs I really like are Give it Away and Under the Bridge
These songs I think could be defined as RHCP Classics, they are both have memorable refrains and relatable lyrics, which makes them so well loved. Give it Away is significantly faster and harder than Under the Bridge, but I think it still is less harsh and less-screamy than some of their other songs on the album. In contrast to almost the entire album, Under the Bridge is a nice, slower song about heart break and loss, who wouldn't eat that up?
As for the rest of the album... Sorry not sorry, I am a pop princess now & forever, that's just the way I am.
ALAS, no fear, I have not given up on RHCP,
The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie is actually in my top 10 favorite songs
First of all, HELLO COWBELL. Love that. Secondly, very catchy, upbeat tune; not as in your face as their old stuff. There's also more actual singing on this track than the loud talking/ yelling on their old tracks.
More all time faves:
All of these songs are their softer works...coincidence? I think not.
In Conclusion, I love RHCP, but not during the Blood Sugar, Sex, Magik phase.
The only songs I really like are Give it Away and Under the Bridge
These songs I think could be defined as RHCP Classics, they are both have memorable refrains and relatable lyrics, which makes them so well loved. Give it Away is significantly faster and harder than Under the Bridge, but I think it still is less harsh and less-screamy than some of their other songs on the album. In contrast to almost the entire album, Under the Bridge is a nice, slower song about heart break and loss, who wouldn't eat that up?
As for the rest of the album... Sorry not sorry, I am a pop princess now & forever, that's just the way I am.
ALAS, no fear, I have not given up on RHCP,
The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie is actually in my top 10 favorite songs
First of all, HELLO COWBELL. Love that. Secondly, very catchy, upbeat tune; not as in your face as their old stuff. There's also more actual singing on this track than the loud talking/ yelling on their old tracks.
More all time faves:
All of these songs are their softer works...coincidence? I think not.
In Conclusion, I love RHCP, but not during the Blood Sugar, Sex, Magik phase.
New Phoenix Album
Phoenix released a new album this past month, and I've just now gotten the chance to listen to it all the way through. The album definitely has several break out hits, I will give a quick sampler of my favorite tracks.
Entertainment is the first track on the Album, and it starts the album off with a bang
It's got a Japanese theme to it, the real music video was long and weird so I didn't post it. Anyways, this song is catchy AF with a repetitive, funky keyboard Asian melody. The lyrics don't seem to be largely significant or impact the song's appeal.
SOS in Bel Air is great, I can't find a link that's not a horribly-filmed fan video from a concert. Sorry. Listen to that one on your own time, partner.
Here is a link to "Trying to Be Cool" and "Drakkar Noir"
Trying to Be Cool has a real Passion Pit vibe to it, lot's of funky keyboard/ techno transitions. This song emphasizes the lyrics a lot more than Entertainment, and man I love the lead's voice.
Fitting to the true spirit of an album, I think Drakkar Noir sounds extremely similar to Trying to Be Cool. Same kind of steady beat and funky keyboard track. While I think it's important for artists to maintain a distinguishable sound, I could see others arguing that their music all sounds the same.
Bankrupt! (the song the album was named for) is almost entirely instrumental, or vocals don't come in until around minute 5. I'm very cranky that I can't find a link to this online yet, the album is still so new that I guess no links have been legally posted. Dammit internet.
Anyways, overall, I love the album. Phoenix has a real soothing, easy listening sound that I can listen to whenever and wherever.
Entertainment is the first track on the Album, and it starts the album off with a bang
It's got a Japanese theme to it, the real music video was long and weird so I didn't post it. Anyways, this song is catchy AF with a repetitive, funky keyboard Asian melody. The lyrics don't seem to be largely significant or impact the song's appeal.
SOS in Bel Air is great, I can't find a link that's not a horribly-filmed fan video from a concert. Sorry. Listen to that one on your own time, partner.
Here is a link to "Trying to Be Cool" and "Drakkar Noir"
Trying to Be Cool has a real Passion Pit vibe to it, lot's of funky keyboard/ techno transitions. This song emphasizes the lyrics a lot more than Entertainment, and man I love the lead's voice.
Fitting to the true spirit of an album, I think Drakkar Noir sounds extremely similar to Trying to Be Cool. Same kind of steady beat and funky keyboard track. While I think it's important for artists to maintain a distinguishable sound, I could see others arguing that their music all sounds the same.
Bankrupt! (the song the album was named for) is almost entirely instrumental, or vocals don't come in until around minute 5. I'm very cranky that I can't find a link to this online yet, the album is still so new that I guess no links have been legally posted. Dammit internet.
Anyways, overall, I love the album. Phoenix has a real soothing, easy listening sound that I can listen to whenever and wherever.
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Ghostland Observatory
An all time favorite band of mine, I was reminded of them when we watched the LCD Soundsystem documentary/ I think they have pretty similar techno pop sounds.
Here is a sampler of my favorites:
First, the "cities"
Silver City (top 5 favorite songs of all time)
The main refrain:
Well, I don't come from the city,
I came here on the train,
In search of something pretty,
It's my heart I have to blame.
The american dream? A beautiful girl? I don't know what their chasing, all I know is that I don't ever want them to find it so that this song can go on forever.
Their most popular song, Sad Sad City
Give me the Beat
And somehow one of their less popular songs, Time
I don't really know why, but I will always be inclined toward techno/ electronic music, and Ghostland Observatory always hits the spot. Even though all of their music is full of funky keyboard and electronic sounds, I still think they maintain a good amount of diversity in their music to keep everything from sounding the same/ keep it fresh and interesting.
Here is a sampler of my favorites:
First, the "cities"
Silver City (top 5 favorite songs of all time)
The main refrain:
Well, I don't come from the city,
I came here on the train,
In search of something pretty,
It's my heart I have to blame.
The american dream? A beautiful girl? I don't know what their chasing, all I know is that I don't ever want them to find it so that this song can go on forever.
Their most popular song, Sad Sad City
Give me the Beat
And somehow one of their less popular songs, Time
I don't really know why, but I will always be inclined toward techno/ electronic music, and Ghostland Observatory always hits the spot. Even though all of their music is full of funky keyboard and electronic sounds, I still think they maintain a good amount of diversity in their music to keep everything from sounding the same/ keep it fresh and interesting.
Friday, April 26, 2013
LCD Soundsystem
I LOVE LCD Soundsystem/ was real pumped to find out we were watching a taping of a LCD concert in class.
First and foremost, "I Can Change" is the shit I do like.
First of all, this song is catchy as hell: decently repetitive lyrics and upbeat pop-y music make this song impossible not to love. Secondly, James Murphy hits some real crazy high notes in this song, and I'm like, you go James Murphy, do your thing!
"Tribulations" is also my jam
Once again, a real funky techno beat to fist pump/ jump around to. This is actually the first LCD Soundsytem song I knew, and I had it on repeat on my lil' ipod shuffle for weeks.
I also really like Dance Yrself Clean, however, the build up is real long.
Well first of all, the whole song is like 9 minutes long, so that's already a whole lot of listening. Although the build up is long, there is some really nice harmonies and I like the real basic drum beat. But then, when the techno-fied jams come in full force around 3:08 or so, things get real crazy awesome & I love it.
First and foremost, "I Can Change" is the shit I do like.
First of all, this song is catchy as hell: decently repetitive lyrics and upbeat pop-y music make this song impossible not to love. Secondly, James Murphy hits some real crazy high notes in this song, and I'm like, you go James Murphy, do your thing!
"Tribulations" is also my jam
Once again, a real funky techno beat to fist pump/ jump around to. This is actually the first LCD Soundsytem song I knew, and I had it on repeat on my lil' ipod shuffle for weeks.
I also really like Dance Yrself Clean, however, the build up is real long.
Well first of all, the whole song is like 9 minutes long, so that's already a whole lot of listening. Although the build up is long, there is some really nice harmonies and I like the real basic drum beat. But then, when the techno-fied jams come in full force around 3:08 or so, things get real crazy awesome & I love it.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
The Shins
RIYL: Broken Bells, Edward Sharpe
The Shins are like a comfort-food band: always reliable to play for any audience or mood. And while I'm always down for that, I get a lil' tired of listening to them after a few tracks, but I'm picky and prefer faster-paced music so that's just me.
My all time favorite: Australia
How happy and soothing is that. Very Edward Sharpe-esque. However I have pretty much 0.00 idea what the lyrics are supposed to mean:
A dual tone under wall
The selfless fool who hoped he'd save us all
He never dreamt of such sterile hands,
You keep them folded in your lap,
Or raise them up to beg for scraps,
You know, he's holding you down,
With the tips of his fingers just the same,
Will you be pulled from the ocean,
But just a minute too late,
Or changed by a potion,
And find a handsome young mate,
For you to love.
The man is oppressing us? Love is cruel? There's a big man with fingers? I don't know!
Here are some more of my faves:
"The Simple Song" Aptly named. Still catchy and nice though.
Okay, and I'm pretty sure this one came directly off of a Broken Bells Album:
In conclusion, an easy listen, but nonetheless, enjoyable.
The Shins are like a comfort-food band: always reliable to play for any audience or mood. And while I'm always down for that, I get a lil' tired of listening to them after a few tracks, but I'm picky and prefer faster-paced music so that's just me.
My all time favorite: Australia
How happy and soothing is that. Very Edward Sharpe-esque. However I have pretty much 0.00 idea what the lyrics are supposed to mean:
A dual tone under wall
The selfless fool who hoped he'd save us all
He never dreamt of such sterile hands,
You keep them folded in your lap,
Or raise them up to beg for scraps,
You know, he's holding you down,
With the tips of his fingers just the same,
Will you be pulled from the ocean,
But just a minute too late,
Or changed by a potion,
And find a handsome young mate,
For you to love.
The man is oppressing us? Love is cruel? There's a big man with fingers? I don't know!
Here are some more of my faves:
"The Simple Song" Aptly named. Still catchy and nice though.
Okay, and I'm pretty sure this one came directly off of a Broken Bells Album:
In conclusion, an easy listen, but nonetheless, enjoyable.
Friday, April 12, 2013
Beastie Boys
So, I struggle with how I feel about Beastie Boys. Sometimes I'm like this is super cool and different and such a unique sounds. And other times I think it's straight racket/ clashing sounds and I hate it so much. Another problem I have with the Beastie Boys is that I don't care for the voice of the lead singer/rapper/ whatever you want to call it. I feel like he is intentionally speaking obnoxiously and I'm just like stoooop. I get a Natalie Portman rap feel from them, and I feel like they are almost being intentionally annoying.
For instance, wtf is going on in this music video
However, one thing that saves the Beastie Boys for me is that I am a big fan of sampling/ remixing (as I expressed in my last post), and I think their work is revolutionary in the sampling sense. Even though some songs I'm pretty sure are just straight samples from other artists played back to back, overall, I think they do a pretty impressive job meshing sounds and making them their own.
My fav Beastie Boys song from Paul's Boutique is easily Car Thief
It reminds me of Girl Talk in the way that there is some slower songs playing in the background mixed with some faster beats and add-on techno/ DJ noises.
Anyways, Beastie Boys typically just bothers me, but I do like a few select tracks.
For instance, wtf is going on in this music video
However, one thing that saves the Beastie Boys for me is that I am a big fan of sampling/ remixing (as I expressed in my last post), and I think their work is revolutionary in the sampling sense. Even though some songs I'm pretty sure are just straight samples from other artists played back to back, overall, I think they do a pretty impressive job meshing sounds and making them their own.
My fav Beastie Boys song from Paul's Boutique is easily Car Thief
It reminds me of Girl Talk in the way that there is some slower songs playing in the background mixed with some faster beats and add-on techno/ DJ noises.
Anyways, Beastie Boys typically just bothers me, but I do like a few select tracks.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Remix City
I can't think of a specific artist I'm listening to right now besides JT who I just blogged about, so instead this blog is just going to be a compilation of my current favorite remixes. So basically, if I were a DJ, this would be what I would be throwing at you at your next club outing. Enjoy:
So, usually I don't get dubstep, think it sounds like a robot taking a shit, but every now and then I'm like okay, alright, this is pretty cool.
Sleepless (Loadstar Remix) -Excision
Okay, this next one is the "Original Don" Flosstradamus remix. This is the ish I do like. However it's not really the same unless you have it PUMPING out your speakers/ the addition of a strobe light or something crazy.
Then, pretty much the entire Project X soundtrack is awesome remixes, but this one is easily the best:
Kid Cudi - Pursuit of Happiness (Steve Aoki Remix)
Speaking of Ratatat in that last mix, here's another with Biggie Smalls I love:
Also, I really like all of AVICII's mixes, I saw AVICII at ACL this past year and it was party city.
Anyways, I can be really into club-type mixes and jams, or I can really hate them. It's pretty hit or miss.
So, usually I don't get dubstep, think it sounds like a robot taking a shit, but every now and then I'm like okay, alright, this is pretty cool.
Sleepless (Loadstar Remix) -Excision
Okay, this next one is the "Original Don" Flosstradamus remix. This is the ish I do like. However it's not really the same unless you have it PUMPING out your speakers/ the addition of a strobe light or something crazy.
Then, pretty much the entire Project X soundtrack is awesome remixes, but this one is easily the best:
Kid Cudi - Pursuit of Happiness (Steve Aoki Remix)
Speaking of Ratatat in that last mix, here's another with Biggie Smalls I love:
Also, I really like all of AVICII's mixes, I saw AVICII at ACL this past year and it was party city.
Anyways, I can be really into club-type mixes and jams, or I can really hate them. It's pretty hit or miss.
Friday, April 5, 2013
Joe Cocker
I gotta say, that SNL skit we watched in class with John Belushi actually broke my heart/ I felt so terribly for him. I mean, I know it was his fault for basically self-distructing himself with drugs and alcohol, but oh man that was just so brutal and sad.
I found this video when youtubin him and I thought this was precious:
He looks a million times better than he did on SNL, which is so depressing considering he was several decades younger then. But look at him go now! He's an allstar! YOU GO, JOE.
Also, I found this, which is pretty sad. It's a bad-lip-reading/ hearing interpretation of his song because well...hes's not super articulate.
Anyways, I love the song 'You are so Beautiful"
First of all, holy smokes, he is so sweaty/ ruining the romantic vibe of this song a little bit. But oh man, I LOVE this song. You could pretty much play this in any sappy movie and I would cry like a little baby. This song is so unlike his other works, so soft and sweet, & I am still a big sucker for how precious I think he is now that he is old and partially recovered.
Anywhoo, Joe Cocker breaks my heart, however I really like his sound and appreciate his versatility.
I found this video when youtubin him and I thought this was precious:
He looks a million times better than he did on SNL, which is so depressing considering he was several decades younger then. But look at him go now! He's an allstar! YOU GO, JOE.
Also, I found this, which is pretty sad. It's a bad-lip-reading/ hearing interpretation of his song because well...hes's not super articulate.
Anyways, I love the song 'You are so Beautiful"
First of all, holy smokes, he is so sweaty/ ruining the romantic vibe of this song a little bit. But oh man, I LOVE this song. You could pretty much play this in any sappy movie and I would cry like a little baby. This song is so unlike his other works, so soft and sweet, & I am still a big sucker for how precious I think he is now that he is old and partially recovered.
Anywhoo, Joe Cocker breaks my heart, however I really like his sound and appreciate his versatility.
Haley Reinhart
So, apparently Reinhart was recently on American idol/ got 3rd place. But let's be honest, who watches American idol anymore.
Anyways, I first heard about her when I heard her cover of "Bennie and the Jets". And I was obsessed for like a week. Her voice is so smooth and different and I can't get enough.
It's also sung in such a different style from the original version, much slower and focused on the lyrics/ singing. I mean maybe it is weird for me to say this, but her voice is incredibly sexy/ alluring. Like siren material. I would steer my ship her way, that's all I'm saying.
She reminds me a bit of Duffy, in that kind of high/ scratchy/ cabaret sound.
Her voice is so hot, I can't even handle it, this is ridiculous. That real pop-y B.O.B. comes in and raps or whatever and that's okay I suppose, I just am waiting for the song to get to Haley the entire time he talks.
Here's another track I liked called "Liar", it's real angsty, and I love me some angst.
I also get a bit of an Adele vibe in this song, with the whole love angst, and her voice even has some similar inflections.
Anyways, it's nice to see an American Idol contestant actually doing something with their career, you go girl.
Anyways, I first heard about her when I heard her cover of "Bennie and the Jets". And I was obsessed for like a week. Her voice is so smooth and different and I can't get enough.
It's also sung in such a different style from the original version, much slower and focused on the lyrics/ singing. I mean maybe it is weird for me to say this, but her voice is incredibly sexy/ alluring. Like siren material. I would steer my ship her way, that's all I'm saying.
She reminds me a bit of Duffy, in that kind of high/ scratchy/ cabaret sound.
Her voice is so hot, I can't even handle it, this is ridiculous. That real pop-y B.O.B. comes in and raps or whatever and that's okay I suppose, I just am waiting for the song to get to Haley the entire time he talks.
Here's another track I liked called "Liar", it's real angsty, and I love me some angst.
I also get a bit of an Adele vibe in this song, with the whole love angst, and her voice even has some similar inflections.
Anyways, it's nice to see an American Idol contestant actually doing something with their career, you go girl.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Paul Simon
So, I'm an idiot, I didn't know Paul Simon was from Simon & Garfunkel. That seriously just went SWOOSH right over my head. Especailly because Paul Simon is the soundtrack to my childhood happiness.
'You Can Call Me Al' seriously never fails to put me in a good mood.
Regarding the video, Paul Simon is half Chevy Chase's size, it's ridiculous. Also, I remember seeing this when I was little, and I just realized I had been under the impression that Paul Simon was Chevy Chase. Young Trickery.
I think it's those fun time whistles, but I always thing of Ice Age when I hear this song. Anyways, this song makes me want to go run a marathon (okay, maybe a 5 k) because I could just happily trot along to this song for hours. It has those triumphant brass/ keyboard riffs that are super 80's too, I love it. Then there's a SWEET slapping of the bass too. However, I don't understand the lyrics, or the whole "Betty" and "Al" thing.
Okay, and don't get me started on "Diamonds On the Soles of Shoes".
First of all, his African choir harmonizing with him in th begginning is chill-worthy, they are incredible. Then the song goes totally "Little Mermaid" and gets super upbeat and Carribean sounding, and I just want to dance. I gotta say, Paul Simon looks like such a geek, it's hilarious. He is a solid foot shorter than all of his back up men too, oh man. This music video is so awesome.
Anyways, I LOVE Paul Simon & Graceland, and would be so down to listen to more of his albums in class.
'You Can Call Me Al' seriously never fails to put me in a good mood.
Regarding the video, Paul Simon is half Chevy Chase's size, it's ridiculous. Also, I remember seeing this when I was little, and I just realized I had been under the impression that Paul Simon was Chevy Chase. Young Trickery.
I think it's those fun time whistles, but I always thing of Ice Age when I hear this song. Anyways, this song makes me want to go run a marathon (okay, maybe a 5 k) because I could just happily trot along to this song for hours. It has those triumphant brass/ keyboard riffs that are super 80's too, I love it. Then there's a SWEET slapping of the bass too. However, I don't understand the lyrics, or the whole "Betty" and "Al" thing.
Okay, and don't get me started on "Diamonds On the Soles of Shoes".
First of all, his African choir harmonizing with him in th begginning is chill-worthy, they are incredible. Then the song goes totally "Little Mermaid" and gets super upbeat and Carribean sounding, and I just want to dance. I gotta say, Paul Simon looks like such a geek, it's hilarious. He is a solid foot shorter than all of his back up men too, oh man. This music video is so awesome.
Anyways, I LOVE Paul Simon & Graceland, and would be so down to listen to more of his albums in class.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Air Dubai
Air Dubai recently came to SXSW, and I am real cranky that I missed their show (I didn't know they were coming until I saw people posting photos with them after. That's right, not only did I miss their show, I missed the opportunity to MEET them. Idiot).
I would describe Air Dubai as electronic/ hip-hop cross over, with some real poppy-techno beats accompanied by rapping and some heavy beats.
My favorite song is EASILY Summer Solstice
First off, the lead vocals in this song are super different sounding & I LOVE his voice. The rapping in this song doesn't astound me or make my jaw drop or anything, but the awesomeness of the chorous and the music easily compensate. I love the kind of eerie keyboard, and then like 3 minutes into the song it slows down and a heavy drum kick and trumpets come in and I just want to throw my arms into the air and sway.
Also, this always makes me giggle since I am a big Britney fan (sorry not sorry), Air Dubai does a cover of Britney Spears' 'Toxic'
Here is Britney's version:
This is one of those music videos that's like wait...what is the plot line? Why is she a flight attendant? WHAT she ripped a flesh mask off of that guy and he turned more attractive? WHAT? Anyways, if you value your brain cells, I wouldn't watch more than a minute of that.
Here is Air Dubai's version:
His voice is HAUNTINGLY good. I can't handle it. I really like this, however, I am a sucker for Britney's original.
Here are a few more links to some more Air Dubai Tracks I dig:
I would describe Air Dubai as electronic/ hip-hop cross over, with some real poppy-techno beats accompanied by rapping and some heavy beats.
My favorite song is EASILY Summer Solstice
First off, the lead vocals in this song are super different sounding & I LOVE his voice. The rapping in this song doesn't astound me or make my jaw drop or anything, but the awesomeness of the chorous and the music easily compensate. I love the kind of eerie keyboard, and then like 3 minutes into the song it slows down and a heavy drum kick and trumpets come in and I just want to throw my arms into the air and sway.
Also, this always makes me giggle since I am a big Britney fan (sorry not sorry), Air Dubai does a cover of Britney Spears' 'Toxic'
Here is Britney's version:
This is one of those music videos that's like wait...what is the plot line? Why is she a flight attendant? WHAT she ripped a flesh mask off of that guy and he turned more attractive? WHAT? Anyways, if you value your brain cells, I wouldn't watch more than a minute of that.
Here is Air Dubai's version:
His voice is HAUNTINGLY good. I can't handle it. I really like this, however, I am a sucker for Britney's original.
Here are a few more links to some more Air Dubai Tracks I dig:
Friday, March 22, 2013
80's Rap
So, I have terrible news, I do not have computer access right now, so this blog is being done from my phone. And that means no video links wahhhh. I'm so sorry to have let you down, hundreds of followers.
Anyways, I LOVE this unit, I would not mind doing it for the rest of the year. I feel like 80's Hip Hop took a lot of awesome elements from Disco and Punk, and utilized them briliantly in the Hip Hop era of the 80's. There's often a real techno-y beat backing the Hip Hop tracks, usually with a bit of DJ scratching thrown in the mix, but none the less that electronic sound is definitely present. As far as punk, Hip Hop definitely has that rebelious, git-out-my-way attitude as seen commonly in punk hits of the previous decade.
My favorite band that we have listened to thus far in class on this unit is easily Salt-n-Pepa. First of all, GIRL POWER. That is so awesome that Salt-n-Pepa is one of the first all female Hip Hop groups, what a terrific trio. Secondly, 'Push It' will never not be awesome. The whole song is almost like a mash up of about 5 other songs, but you know what, that keeps things super interesting and spicy, and I'm into it.
And, of course, I am super into Will Smith, but that is largely because I have a crush on him. He is like a goofy/ satirical version of punk, and I think he is absolutely hilarious. His music is also delightfully clean yet catchy, and I have several of his big hits like 'Miami' and 'Getting Jiggy with It' on my mix CDs in my car.
In conclusion for this unit, I like it, I love it, I want some more of it.
Anyways, I LOVE this unit, I would not mind doing it for the rest of the year. I feel like 80's Hip Hop took a lot of awesome elements from Disco and Punk, and utilized them briliantly in the Hip Hop era of the 80's. There's often a real techno-y beat backing the Hip Hop tracks, usually with a bit of DJ scratching thrown in the mix, but none the less that electronic sound is definitely present. As far as punk, Hip Hop definitely has that rebelious, git-out-my-way attitude as seen commonly in punk hits of the previous decade.
My favorite band that we have listened to thus far in class on this unit is easily Salt-n-Pepa. First of all, GIRL POWER. That is so awesome that Salt-n-Pepa is one of the first all female Hip Hop groups, what a terrific trio. Secondly, 'Push It' will never not be awesome. The whole song is almost like a mash up of about 5 other songs, but you know what, that keeps things super interesting and spicy, and I'm into it.
And, of course, I am super into Will Smith, but that is largely because I have a crush on him. He is like a goofy/ satirical version of punk, and I think he is absolutely hilarious. His music is also delightfully clean yet catchy, and I have several of his big hits like 'Miami' and 'Getting Jiggy with It' on my mix CDs in my car.
In conclusion for this unit, I like it, I love it, I want some more of it.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
DAT 20/20
So, as I may have expressed in an earlier post, I am SO excited about JT's new album. One thing I think is SO cool and unique about 20/20 is it was created as an album, not a big compilation of singles like almost all other music being produced today. Another thing that makes the album so different is that almost every song hits the 8 minute mark. JT had a quote about it:
"If Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin can do 10-minute songs and Queen can do 10-minute songs then why can't we? We'll figure out the radio edits later."
SOCIETY DON'T OWN YOU, JT
Also, I did something you would be so proud of, I put in the CD, sat on my bed, and just sat and soaked in the entire album at one time. And it was an awesome experience, plus I was super proud of myself afterwards, that was a whole 70 minutes and 2 seconds of concentrated listening, who knew I still even retained that long of an attention span?
However, I gotta say, I am a huge JT fan (not even a guilty pleasure, I have no shame in my JT love) and the album was SUPER hit & miss for me. I really loved like 4 of the songs, hated 3 of them, and the rest weren't even memorable.
Here are some of the ones I got reaaalll into:
Mirrors
I LOVE. I'll admit, the beginning dramatic guitar riff kinda rubbed my fur the wrong way at first, but then BAM JT comes in and KILLS it.
Don't Hold the Wall:
I LOVE the harmonies in the beggining of this song. So pretty. Then this jungle-y bongo comes in with some Middle Eastern sounding music and then things get real awesome.
And now some I really didn't like
Believe it or not, I don't like Suit & Tie, the break out hit of the album
The music it super busy/ doesn't carry a super consistent melody and it kind of gives me a headache. Justin also sings a ton of falsetto in this song, which is awesome and impressive, but after a while I'm like ENUFF.
and Strawberry Bubblegum
This is one of those songs that just got ruined by the lyrics. He's talking about some girl smacking bubblegum and I have to just not listen to closely in order to enjoy this one.
Anyways, overall I am content with the album, I'd give it a 6.5/7. JT forever and ever.
"If Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin can do 10-minute songs and Queen can do 10-minute songs then why can't we? We'll figure out the radio edits later."
SOCIETY DON'T OWN YOU, JT
Also, I did something you would be so proud of, I put in the CD, sat on my bed, and just sat and soaked in the entire album at one time. And it was an awesome experience, plus I was super proud of myself afterwards, that was a whole 70 minutes and 2 seconds of concentrated listening, who knew I still even retained that long of an attention span?
However, I gotta say, I am a huge JT fan (not even a guilty pleasure, I have no shame in my JT love) and the album was SUPER hit & miss for me. I really loved like 4 of the songs, hated 3 of them, and the rest weren't even memorable.
Here are some of the ones I got reaaalll into:
Mirrors
I LOVE. I'll admit, the beginning dramatic guitar riff kinda rubbed my fur the wrong way at first, but then BAM JT comes in and KILLS it.
Don't Hold the Wall:
I LOVE the harmonies in the beggining of this song. So pretty. Then this jungle-y bongo comes in with some Middle Eastern sounding music and then things get real awesome.
And now some I really didn't like
Believe it or not, I don't like Suit & Tie, the break out hit of the album
The music it super busy/ doesn't carry a super consistent melody and it kind of gives me a headache. Justin also sings a ton of falsetto in this song, which is awesome and impressive, but after a while I'm like ENUFF.
and Strawberry Bubblegum
This is one of those songs that just got ruined by the lyrics. He's talking about some girl smacking bubblegum and I have to just not listen to closely in order to enjoy this one.
Anyways, overall I am content with the album, I'd give it a 6.5/7. JT forever and ever.
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