Visually Delicious: The Killers Edition

Day & Age dropped this week, and to further promote not only a great band (The Killers) but a great album as well, Visually Delicious this time around is going to be devoted in its entirety to The Killers. Enjoy, and buy their g-ddamned album.

The Killers -- Smile Like You Mean It

To kick things off, a throwback to Hot Fuss, the album that started it all. I didn't pull out the 2002 favourite, "Somebody Told Me" in order to introduce some of you's to one of the lesser-known singles off of Hot Fuss. The video is a bit dark, making the lyrics a scoche more depressing, the fact that Mr. Flowers and the rest of the band are wandering around as ghosties doesn't cheer things up either. Still interesting.


The Killers -- For Reasons Unknown

The 4th single off their sophmore effort, Sam's Town, and my favourite track of the aforementioned album, "For Reasons Unknown" has the boys prancing around the desert on ponies, and stopping occasionally to perform. Okay, I made it sound way lame, when it really isn't. Just watch the damn video.


The Killers -- Tranquilize (feat. Lou Reed)

Collaboration with G-d-among-men Lou Reed, "Tranquilize" is an amazing track. The twangish guitar in the beginning and the western sound carried throughout it is perfect. The video is probably their darkest with seances and other spooky stuff. So much love for Mr. Reed.


The Killers -- Don't Shoot Me Santa

By far my favourite Killers video for the sheer hilarity of it. Watch it and you will not be disappointed.


The Killers -- Human

Of course this post wouldn't be complete without this song. The video I posted isn't of the highest quality compliments of all the good quality ones having embedding disabled. The Killers return to one of their favourite video past times: performing in the desert. You'd think it would get boring after awhile, but with Brandon Flowers image re-vamps it keeps people on their toes.Though I must say, I am sad to see the 'stache gone. Also, pardon the other video after it. It just comes with the embedding-disabled-territory.

Just another white trash county kiss

Completely putting aside the fact that I'm am in lust love with Brandon Flowers, I must say that The Killers new album, Day & Age is monstrously good. I've listened to a barrage of new albums in the last three days, but by far Day & Age is my favourite. The genres are definitely blurred on the album, though rock alternative remains its core, the funk and up-tempo beats prevalent throughout the tracks are so seamlessly woven in with The Killers "sound" that it just adds the oomph of the album. Yes, while The Killers have always carried up-tempo numbers on their albums, Day & Age finds the beats a lot cleaner. Listening to the album on repeat at work last night, I honestly could not find a weak track.


The album is set for release next Tuesday, and I encourage everyone to go out and purchase the album to show their support. Also? The Killers are currently on (or about to embark) tour for Day & Age, the tickets are cheap (already got mine!) so hit up ticketmaster to see if they're playing at a venue near you.


The Killers -- Joy Ride

The Killers -- A Dustland Fairytale

The Killers -- Human

Cotton candy kiss, can't wait for my sugar rush

Shitty Photoshopping aside, let me say this now: Circus is brilliant. I was a major fan of Ms. Spears last effort, Blackout--an album grossly overshadowed by the singer's batshit crazy antics at the time, but dayum! has Circus got it beat!

Warmer, more playful, more Britney in general, and with two ballads thrown in for good measure, Circus is bound to quickly become a fan favourite. It's funky and utilizes the synth a lot less in comparison to it's predecessor. It's an awesome pop album. Yes, some of the lyrics are completely nonsensical, and the cover is trash (though admittedly, not nearly as bad as Blackout's), but the album is so damn catchy and charming, dammit! "Kill the Lights" is brilliant, turning the tables once again on the paparazzi, best line? "Is that money in your pocket, or are you happy to see me?" Catchy, sassy, and dancey--who could ask for more? Circus possesses the heart that Blackout was lacking. Don't get me wrong, I loved Blackout and believe it would have been better received if not overshadowed by that not-nearly-as-terrible-as-everyone-makes-it-out-to-be VMA performance as well as Ms. Spears's odd behaviour. It's a 90 minute dance-a-thon. But Circus, ah, Circus--will hopefully be the comeback we fans have been hoping for (now if only Michael Jackson would get the memo). You best believe that is Britney goes on tour, this bish is seeing her. Fo' realsies.

Circus is slated for release on December 2nd, BUY IT.


Britney Spears -- Out From Under

Britney Spears -- Kill the Lights

Britney Spears -- Leather and Lace

UPDATE Sorry, folks, I've been told to remove the files.

He lost his soul to a woman so heartless

Anyone who knows me, is fully aware of my undying musical love for Kanye West. His music is just so damn addicting--it's like crack, I swear.

Anyways, yesterday I said I wasn't aware of the current happenings in the music world, so today I thought I'd remedy that, and am I oh so glad I did! Kan-yeezy has released a million songs since I've been away! Okay, so I exaggerated a bit, he's released six from what I gather, two featuring Lil' Wayne, and one featuring Jeezy. Crazy dumb good! Can 808's and Heartbreaks drop this instant? Please?

And I know there are haters out there. The tracks do depart from typical Kanye fare, less hip-hop and more electronic with their heavy synth, but they're still dumb good. Seriously. I mean, if "Love Lockdown" isn't stuck in your head after one good listen, then there is something flipping wrong with you.

I'd love to yap on about my love of Mr. West's latest efforts, but there are two things beckoning me away, 1) last night's True Blood (yes, I watch that crap STFU), & 2) sleep, since I keep the opposite hours of the rest y'all. Also? Having scored Britney Spears latest, Circus, prepare yourselves for a nice update, and perhaps even a few treats.

ENJOY!

Kanye West -- Love Lockdown

Kanye West -- Heartless

Kanye West -- Coldest Winter

Kanye West feat. Young Jeezy -- Amazing

Kanye feat. Lil' Wayne -- Tell Everybody You Know

Kanye feat. Lil' Wayne -- See You In My Nightmares

Mashing! Not Just For Potatoes, Vol. 9

Yelle vs Kanye -- A Cause De Kanye

DJ Geometrix -- Intergalactic Takeover (Beastie Boys vs DJ Khaled)

DJ Zebra -- Roxanne Should Be Dancing (The Police vs Bee Gees) *fucking love this*

Divide & Kreate - Every Bleeding Breath (Leona Lewis vs The Police vs Snow Patrol)

The Whites Stripes vs The Eurythmics -- Sweet Dreams Are Made of a Seven Nation Army *must listen!*

The Hood Internet -- Can't Believe It's Life Like (T-Pain vs The Rosebuds)

The Kickdrums & The League -- Electric Touch (MGMT vs Justice vs Kanye West

Goldsmith -- Thriller Genesis (Michael Jackson vs Justice) *so seamless it hurts*

My smile will mislead you

Long hiatus, eh? I'm not going to promise you I'll update more, since I've promised you many times before, and have yet to do so.

As of late, instead of discovering new tunes and acts, I've been re-discovering some old favourites: Third Eye Blind, New Found Glory, Incubus, Nirvana, etc. Third Eye Blind has definitely hit me hard, their self-titled album is pure pop-rock brilliance in a 90 minute package. Seriously. Though the sound can be pinned to the 90's alt-rock movement, the lyrics lose none of their intelligence and potency.

Released in 1997 with killer singles like "Jumper," "Semi-Charmed Kind Of Life," and "Narcolepsy," that album followed me throughout my formative years: 7th to 12th grade. Yes, I was a mega Backstreet Boys fan, but Stephen Jenkins was that older, jaded college boy who played guitar--and how is that not attractive to a thirteen year old who grew up with two older brothers who idolized Kurt Cobain? Yes, while Jenkins has never been, nor will he ever be Kurt Cobain, you can see the connection my hormone-addled brain made. And come on, at thirteen, any guy with a guitar is hot by default, it's written down somewhere, I know it is.

Anyways, that album at twelve and thirteen didn't mean as much to me as it does now and when I was sixteen and seventeen. Re-discovering an album can be magic in what you take away from it after listening to it again. Lyrics take on a whole new meaning as your world gets bigger, and the trove of your experiences deepens. Lyrics that went above your comprehension level suddenly become prophetic if only because they've grown more relatable.

And in the current music climate, I'm afraid the magic of rediscovery is slipping. No one buys albums anymore, with iTunes selling songs separately, people download what they know and that's it. Albums are meant to be journeys, not hot spot vacations.


Ignore the fact that it says "Eric Valentine" as the artist, it's a lie.

But you're just a boy, you don't understand

Stripped of the booty-shaking riffs, given the opportunity to showcase her vocal range, and filled with enough relationship and gender angst, "If I Were A Boy" is shaping up to be an autumnal anthem for the ladies. Beyonce sounds amazing on the track, the only thing amiss are some of the lyrics--not to mention the interesting (for lack of a better word) video for the song. Some of the lyrics thrown in are a little "what the hell?" Granted, Beyonce has never been known as a brilliant songwriter, but still. Regardless, the track has definitely increased the anticipation for her upcoming album, I Am.

A broken heart that's still beating

Lifehouse, a band whose debut album saw me through my first major high school crush and my first love. Seeing as those events happened over half a decade ago, I feel old. Well, at least that is how I felt yesterday when I heard their latest single, "Broken," for the first time. The song is a solid broken-heart power ballad, and Jason's soulful voice provides that extra oomph in it. A song that I can definitely connect to.

I guess that is why this song is so potent for me. Loving and losing is hard business, a business made all the more bearable when given an anthem. "Broken" is my anthem. Now excuse me while I dig out Lifehouse's first album and relive the olden days.










And I apologise for being m.i.a. as of late, compliments of another move, and then balancing a hectic work schedule, and a busy social calendar, a girl just ain't got the same time to blog. I promise some kick ass tunes though, for realsies.

50 years of Excellency

Pardon being m.i.a. for the last month, between moving, working, and catching up with friends, this girl hasn't had time to catch her breath, let alone blog.

Why the return today? Well, the pop love of my life, Michael Joseph Jackson turns the big 5-0 today (also a birthday shout to mi amigo Dan, who runs am.fm.pm). Michael Jackson, Michael Jackson, Michael Jackson. While most don't understand you, my ears love you and are grateful to your 40+ year career. Owning all of your work from the Jackson 5 to the Jacksons, and all of your solo work (early releases like Ben included)--I just can't get enough of you.

Not having access to either of my personal computers, I can not celebrate proper, linking you all to my previous MJ posts. Everyone needs a little MJ in their life. Also to make up for lack of superb celbratory posting, I shall share a Jackson related mishap today:

Showering today, I decided to blast some MJ. Spazztic as I am, showering, singing, and dancing at the same time is not a bright idea. "Rock With You" was the culprit, sending me out of the shower and onto the floor. Embarrassing, yes, but completely and utterly hilarious.




Respects Not Given It's Earned

The Visually Delicious 5

MJ Edition of Cover Me This, Cover Me That

Thriller 25

Cover Me This Cover Me That:: The Eighth Edition

Black Keys -- No Fun (The Stooges)

Keane -- With or Without You (U2)

The Morning Benders -- Dreams (Fleetwood Mac)

Kate Nash -- Irreplacable (Beyonce)

Bridges and Powerlines -- Song #1 (Fugazi)

Two if By Sea -- Transmission (Joy Division)

Alicia Keys & Adam Levine -- Wild Horses (Rolling Stones)




Bonus!Video!Jam!
Georgie Michael -- I Can't Make You Love Me

Mashing: Not Just For Potatoes, Vol. 8

The Faint -- The Geeks Were Right (Boys Noize vs D.I.M. Remix)

10000 Spoons -- Walk teh Phant0m!!!1 - (Justice vs. Was (Not Was)) [way fun]

Flosstradamus -- Overnight Star (Twista Vs Sigur Ros)

Ursula 1000 -- Sweaty Wet Cream (Frederico Franch vs Gameboy Gamegirl vs 2 Killa Queenz)

DJ Gaston -- I Fought The Punk (Vampire Weekend vs. The Clash)

Immuzikation -- One More Time To Pretend (Daft Punk vs MGMT vs The Doors)

Starters -- Cream Your Friends (Justice vs Wu-Tang Clan)

Mix: Do I Need This?

The fact that the title of this mix has the potential to open a philosophical discussion speaks volumes 2to me at the moment, especially with the predicament I presently find myself in concerning all sectors of my life.

I am suppose to be sifting through my belongings (once again). Deciding what to scrap and what to keep, because frankly, this moving business is for the dogs, and the less I have to carry, the happier I'll be (Philosophical jump-off point number 2). Instead of sorting through my things, I am here, dicking around on the internet. C'est La Vie!


Jared Fumari -- Stay Awhile

The Young Republic -- Comes a Time


Little Teeth -- Japanese Candy [the best and worst song I have ever heard]

The Dance Party -- A List (Ambience Remix)

Bonus!Video!Jam!
Ernie and Aaron Neville -- I Don't Want to Live On the Moon

My heart is a-tellin' me I love ya still

Bob Dylan--keeper of my heart. My musical lover is playing Prospect Park on August 12th. I'd kill for tickets. Ok, maybe I am too much of a lover to ever kill anything, the point is: I want to go. Problem? Too poor. The tickets are steep, $55 for the lawn, but it's friggin' Bob Dylan.

I am actually kind of surprised tickets are still available. Last year I saw him at Bethel Woods, a venue much bigger than the Bandshell, and it sold out. The tickets were also cheaper, but that is another story.

The schemer in me says I should ask mi familia for an early Birthday present. The realist in me says it ain't gonna happen.

So this post isn't completely devoid of purpose, I present you with my one of my top five Dylan tunes, "Abandoned Love."


Bob Dylan -- Abandoned Love

Why does my heart keep singin' these rhymes?

If you're into singer-songwriters, then here is a name you need to know: Peter Bradley Adams. A little Bob Dylan-esque, a little Damien Rice, and a whole lotta good, Peter Bradley Adams is destined for big things, and I encourage you all to check him out. He's a heart and soul with a guitar, I don't know how else to describe it. Adams's songs transport me back upstate, to the long weekend drives through Pennsylvania and the Catskills. It's feel-good music that doesn't rely on phat beats and Timbaland production skills--it's simple and heartfelt.

Interesting story about Peter:
"Peter wrote a song called "So Are You To Me" for his sister's wedding. Peter had so much demand for the sheet music for weddings that now he freely gives it out to any askers on MySpace. The eastmountainsouth version of this song has sold over 17,000 downloads without a speck of promotion or a single radio spin.... Now Peter has recorded his own version of the song for Leavetaking."

How is that for impressive?

Peter was a co-founder of eastmountainsouth, a band signed to DreamWorks by Robbie Patterson (yes! THAT Robbie Robertson). Peter has since parted and released his debut solo album in 2006, Gather Up. The release of his follow-up album, Leavetaking, is scheduled for release on August 5th. Below is a song off Leavetaking, "Always."


Peter Bradley Adams -- Always


Because I know you love what you hear, check out his MySpace for more tunes, Peter Bradley Adams @ MySpace. Hell, even if you don't love what you hear, check out the rest of the songs on his MySpace page. They're amazing, personal favourites being "Longer I Run," "I'll Forget You" (reminiscent at times of Dylan's "In My Time Of Dying"), and "Under My Skin" and "Queen of Hearts."

His official site: www.peterbradleyadams.com

Cover Me This, Cover Me That, Vol. VII

And after months of not covering covers--we're back! With the 7th Edition, in the 7th month, and almost in the 7th hour. I love the number 7!


Dr. Dog -- Heart It Races (Architecture in Helsinki)

Adele -- Last Nite (The Strokes)

Jihae -- Do I Move You? (Nina Simone)

Counting Crows -- You Ain't Goin' Nowhere (Bob Dylan) [Live]

Gnarls Barkley -- Reckoner (Radiohead) [Live]

*Spoon -- Rocks Off (Rolling Stones) [Live]



Incidentally recorded from the show of theirs I attended earlier this month. Thank you to whomever recorded it.

I Never Get Back What I Give

Mixed bag of new-found tracks I've been diggin'.

Whitest Kid Alive -- Don't Give Up

Girls -- Hellhole Ratrace

Lady GaGa -- Just Dance

Wyclef Jean feat. Lupe Fiasco -- Fast Car (Remix)

Ry Coder -- Waitin' For Some Girl

All the King's Horses and all the King's Men, couldn't get back my girlfriend

Ben Folds--glasses-wearin'singer-songwriter who's had a piece of my heart since middle school, is set to release Way to Normal--his first disc of new material in three years--on September 30, 2008. On the 17th of this month, an anonymous user (believed by many to be Mr. Ben Folds himself) posted a leak of Way To Normal. The leak isn't the complete album, the original leak has 9 of the 12 songs slated to be on the album, and then the copy of the leak I found only had 6.

Full or not, this leak is leaving me foaming at the mouth for the rest of the album. Ben while not at his finest, is not far off, the piano driven pop melodies tight and well, poppin'. & with the track, "Long Way To Go," Ben proves that lyrics, albeit an important aspect of the music, are only as good as the voice singing him, as the only lyrics in this 1:35 minute piece are "Long Way To Go." My favourite tracks off the leak are "Brainwashed" and "Dr. Yang." "Brainwashed" is an angsty ditty, while "Dr. Yang" is Ben doing what Ben does best.


Ben Folds -- Brainwashed

Ben Folds -- Long Way To Go

Ben Folds -- Dr. Yang

Does She Know That I Was The One Who Used To Turn You On?

And the bitch is back. R.M.'s favourite trainwreck of a diva, Britney Spears, is back with a new song, "She'll Never Be Me."

Ok, so the song isn't completely new since a demo of it was leaked last year, but this si the real deal now, ya hear?

Not the best of songs, but definitely not trash either. I am still thoroughly convinced that Ms. Spears could once again reign supreme on the pop charts. I also believe she would have with Blackout, if that MTV performance hadn't of sunk her. Nobody wanted to give her a chance after that, and Blackout has some solid jams on it. It's also unfortunate that Jive is choosing to release no more singles off Blackout too. Shame.

In good news, Ms. Spears is set to release a new album Mid-December. Huzzah! Now that homegirl is getting her act together proper, it's time for a real comeback.

Anyways, back to the new track. Catchy, electric, and thrashy. (Also a bit reminiscent of "Stronger.") Also, for shits and giggles, Raza remix of Spears' "Break the Ice" featuring vocals from J.Timb and Clipse. Hottness in a 4 minute package.




Britney Spears -- She'll Never Be Me

Britney Spears Feat. Justin Timberlake & Clipse -- Break The Ice (Raza Remix)

You Better Leave My Kitten Alone

Leaving Kerouac all alone for the first time. It's only going to be for 8 hours, but he is going to freak.

And the World Spins Madly On

I'm a Lady

Santogold, while phenomenal on her own, I can't help but love the remixes better. With appearances by Diplo and M.I.A. these tracks are loved by me by default.


Santogold feat. Amanda Blank -- I'm a Lady (Diplo Remix)

Santogold feat. M.I.A. and Gorilla Zoe -- Get It Up (RadioClit Remix)

It's a cold and it's a broken Hallejuah

But you are too beautiful to fuck

Best abbreviation ever. Kevin Drew's "TBTF" aka Too Beautiful To Fuck.

This is a mouth that needs religion

Broken Social Scene--indie-thuper-band-extradoniares. I'm not even going to pretend that I know anything about them. Before the Siren Festival this past Saturday, I knew only one of their songs: "Fucked Up Kid." Admittedly, I was blown away by their set. Their frontman and main vox, Kevin Drew, was extremely charming and personable with the crowd. He had me captivated.

As amazing as they sounded live, I was disappointed upon returning home and finding their music less than amazing. Not bad by any means, but not up to par with how they performed live. Which is all together, disappointing since one cannot see a band live all the time. Especially when poor. I am still giving them a shout and recognition though, because they really did blow my mind Saturday.

I don't want to see how foolish we can be

Adorable, right?

Anyways, perusing Hype Machine as I am wont to do when it comes to stimulating my ears with new tunes, I stumbled upon David Myles tune, "I Don't Want to Know." A smooth and gritty voiced singer-songwriter with a voice eerily similar to unlike Jakob Dylan, I instantly fell. Since I am over my box account limit, and cannot seem to find a lone stream of "I Don't Want to Know," I am directing you, my dear readers, to his website, where you can stream a handful of his songs for free.

David Myles' Music

Mix: This is how it happens

And our time is not infinite

The Magnetic Fields NYC based indie-pop, has been a bedfellow of mine since moving. Polished lo-fi--brassy, synthy, all heart, pop sensibilities without the glossy luster of it's top 40 brethren, the Magnetic Fields definitely can't be accused of following the crowd.

I know they get a lot of hype for their 69 Love Songs albums, and don't get me wrong, they're great albums (a personal soft spot for vol. I), but I've always found myself drawn more towards i. Great album. Great, and if you're unfamiliar with it, then I have only one thing of advice for you: get yourself familiar with it.

Visually Delicious: The Weezer Edition

Like any good middle schooler: I listened to Weezer. But, unlike your average middle schooler, I only listened to Pinkerton--beyond that album, I do not know much about Weezer besides their singles. Pinkerton was a good friend at the time favourite album, and was nine times out of ten the soundtrack to our shenanigans--whether it be at her or my house, blasting, or emanating from our shared Sony discman--Rivers Cuomo and crew followed us most everywhere. That album has so many memories connected to it. Dicking around after school, trying cigarettes for the first time, running around the football field in our underwear, teasing the boys on the football (and baseball) teams, and just general tomfoolery. MY fave Pinkerton tune, "Across the Sea" is videoless, so to kickoff things, my second favourite, "El Scorcho." I think I'd be good for you, and you'd be good for me...


Weezer -- El Scorcho



Weezer -- Say It Ain't So



Weezer -- Buddy Holly



Weezer -- Photograph



Weezer -- Island in the Sun



And the award for Pretty Fucking Rad Video goes to:
Weezer -- Pork and Beans

I'm so whoa-o-o-o-o-o-o

A Beach party. That is what the White Rabbits sound like; a beach party. Rock infused with flamenco, salsa, reggae, ska, and pop--throw in a couple of cold brews, a hawaiian shirt or two, and ray bans, and we're set. Opening for Spoon the other night, this sextet originally from Missouri and now Brooklyn based, blew my music lovin' heart & mind.


Check it. Two guitarists/one vox, one bassist, one keyboardists/bongo man/vox, and two drummers. The drummers also play whatever other instruments are needed, tambourine, keyboard, maracas, etc.. It was a musical feast for both eyes and ears. The rhythms were rolling and made it impossible for you to just stand still. I absolutely loved them, and can not recommend a band more highly. Check out their debut album, Fort Nightly, you will not be disappointed. I haven't been able to get enough of them.









Personal! Favourite!

Sometimes I Think I'll Find A Love, One That's Gonna Change My Heart

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Admittedly, before Tuesday, I hadn't really given Spoon much consideration. Sure, I owned Girls Can Tell and Gimme Fiction, and did listen to them on occasion (especially Girls), but for one reason or another, they just didn't manage to capture my full interest. That folks, has changed after seeing them live. I mean the passion put forth, especially by their charismatic frontman, Britt Daniels, didn't leave anyone denying that they love what they do.

Pre-concert, I had attempted to familiarize myself with Spoon's latest release and the like, Ga Ga Ga Ga, but largely due to a sloth-like laptop, could not burn the album for a proper listen. Now that laptop runs much smoother, and am able to run more than one program at once without it taking an eon to do anything, have procured myself solid copies of what was missing from my Spoon collection.

Mini Mix: Dirty Laundry: Out Damn Spot(s)!

Laundry--you money sucking fiend. Not only do I have to drag you to the laundromat, but I have to fight with other ne'er-do-wells who also have nothing better to do on a Tuesday morning, and then pay nearly $5 to wash and dry you. Granted, being near broke, one wash was all I cold afford, but it's the principle of the matter, is all. I mean, I buy you from the store--save you from the grimy hands that pulled you day-in and day-out. Then when I bring you home and take you out a few times, you demand to be cleaned. I mean, honestly? Couldn't you at least wash yourself?


Also, besides mini-psuedo-ranting, the main reason for this post is the first song on this mix, Bitter:Sweet's "Dirty Laundry."








And this song purely for the ~lulz~





Bonus!Video!Jam! Don Henley -- Dirty Laundry (modified form its original version)

I Hear the Call of a Lifetime Ring

To get myself pumped for the Spoon concert tonight (as celebrate super lazy posting), a couple of videos!


Spoon -- Jealousy


Spoon -- The Underdog

I Held So Many People In My Suitcase Heart

Bare bones with just enough production to polish their sound and underscore their simple melodies, The Weepies have managed to create three über low-key-sunshine-mellow albums. Granted, their latest release Hideaway is noticeably less bare bones and more produced in sound, but the sentiment prevalent throughout their earlier works is still at the core of it.

Saccharine packed with heart and interesting metaphors, The Weepies songs lend themselves all too easily to mixtapes. "Somebody Loved," "Gotta Have You," and "Take It From Me" three prime examples of superb lovey mixtape centerpiece songs. The simplicity of the overall production of those songs packs them with a bigger emotional wallop. Those songs are the songs you send out because they're songs you wish somebody would think of whilst assembling a mixtape for you. They're gushy without being obnoxious.

I had stumbled upon "Somebody Loved" in summer '06, and being of the mushy hearted variety, quickly procured and aurally devoured the rest of the album, Say I Am You. In my opinion, Say I Am You is a quintessential summer album. On my desert island top 5 list of summer albums, Say I Am You would be number 2, second only to The Beach Boys, Pet Sounds. There are none in my book that trump The Beach Boys in summer tunes. None.

And to end this audiogasm, a few tunes...

I don't fall too easily

Paul Simon: one of my musical heroes since I was little. "59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)" has been one of my favourite tunes as long as I can remember. My mom was a Simon & Garfunkel fan, I remember summer nights on the porch, Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, & Thyme drifting out of the house as my mom cooked. While I love Art Garfunkel, it's impossible to deny that Simon was the driving force behind the duo. He wrote the songs. It was his heart and soul being poured into their simple melodies and lyrics. His solo career is even better than Simon & Garfunkel (and I am a giant Simon & The Funk fan). Varied in its sounds, incorporating blues, grassroots, gospel, African, and good old fashioned rock, just to name a few.

And I know everyone looks to The Beatles for simple love songs ("I Want to Hold Your Hand" being a personal favourite), but Simon's "Song For the Asking" oozes simplicity and vulnerability, that one can't help but want to fall in love with the next person they lay eyes on. And who can deny his poetic flair with words? "A Heart in New York," "Poem on the Underground Wall," "Sound of Silence"--just to name a few.


Paul Simon -- Kodachrome

Paul Simon -- Under African Skies

Paul Simon -- Love Me Like a Rock

Paul Simon -- Diamonds on the Sole of Her Shoes

Paul Simon -- Everything About It Is A Love Song

Paul Simon -- Peace, Like a River

Simon & Garfunkel -- Homeward Bound

Simon & Garfunkel -- I Am A Rock

Simon & Garfunkel -- Cecilia

Simon & Garfunkel -- El Condor Pasa

Simon & Garfunkel -- A Hazy Shade of Winter

Simon & Garfunkel -- The Dangling Conversation

Simon & Garfunkel -- Song For the Asking

The Muppets Cover Stars & Stripes Forever!!

Happy Fourth Y'all!

I Was Wasting My Time Trying To Fall in Love

What better way to kick off the Fourth than with Moz? Having had two Moz-centric dreams in as many days, I decided to see what the former Smiths frontman was up to--apparently appearing half naked on magazine covers, as well as in the midst of releasing a new album, Years of Refusal. I support it.

Below, besides a video for the single off the new album, "That's How People Grow Up,"
scans from a nifty interview Moz did for Hot Press last month. I've never loved Morrissey more. Yes, he's a crazy vegetarian, but whatever, that's minor.



Hot Press June 2008 Scans

Misses Fried Chicken, you gon be a nigga's death

Mark Ronson: creaming panties since Summer '07. Is it the dark hair & dark eyes? The strong nose? Or maybe, maybe it's the fun, phat, & playful beats you lay down?

Queensbridge's finest; Nas hooked up with Ronson and Busta Rhymes for "Fried Chicken"--a song from his upcoming (and much anticipated) release, Untitled (out July 15th). Seeing Nas and Ronson's names strung together highly piqued my interest. Being a fan of both, I couldn't imagine the two collaborating. Ever. Now that my imagination stands served with the unimaginable and corrected, I listen with grateful ears.

Ronson's brassy sound shines on the song, contrasting with Nas and Rhymes's vocals seamlessly. However smooth the production, the real gem of this track lies in the imaginative lyrics, using fried chicken as a metaphor for ladies. Original and amazing.


Nas feat. Busta Rhymes -- Fried Chicken

A Boy Like Me Is Both 9 and 90...

...Or if we're being literal: 25. R.M. darling Patrick Wolf is today's birthday boy. To celebrate Mr. Wolf turning one quarter of a century; a few videos.


Patrick Wolf -- To the Lighthouse



Patrick Wolf -- Wind in the Wires



Patrick Wolf -- The Magic Position [Live]

Immuzikation: Free Your Unbelievable Mind!

'Spose to be asleep, especially with work in less than 8 hours. Oops.

En Vogue. Loves of mine since elementary school. Immuzikation? Psuedo-love of mine since, hmm, last summer? The latter mashing the former? A musicgasm for sure. Yeah, I was looking for an En Vogue track for a mix I was to throw up here, and stumbled upon this gem. Totes fun, making one want to grab a red solo cup full o' beer and throw a rager of a roof party. Jam it til there's no tomorrow, hombre.


Immuzikation -- Free Your Unbelievable Mind (En Vogue vs EMF)



On a note completely unrelated: When the fuck did The Offspring release a new album? Also, who said anyone even wanted them too? I mean, it's been all downhill since Americana, fellas. C'mon, do you remember the joke of an album that was Conspiracy of One, I wish I didn't.

Great Scot!

Okay, I've been meeting to write about this hot Scot for nearly a month now. My roomie mailed Amy MacDonald's album to me when she mailed me the keys. Not having the time to write proper about her before I left, I decided to make it one of my first orders of business upon moving. Leaving her CD in my desktop, I was not amused ot find out that I had left my desktop wires upstate. To make a longer story short, upon checking my one e-mail for the first time in weeks, my roomie sent me an e-mail complete with streams and picture!

In the vein of Kate Nash, Brandi Carlisle, and KT Tunstall, Amy is a singer songwriter. I know with the music emerging today, it is easy for an artist to just get lumped with other similar ones. I only do this to poor Amy MacDonald because she is still a relative unknown--and hopefully not for long. The demo that was sent to me was a breath of fresh air, seriously. Fun, heartfelt, and summery, this blogger was entranced.

Check her out, you won't be disappointed.

Amy MacDonald -- Mr. Rock N Roll

Amy MacDonald -- Posion Prince

Amy MacDonald -- Run

Feed the Animals--Name Your Price!

Being absent from the internet this past week, I missed several messages from friends about the new Girl Talk album. Today, armed with a blank CD and sharpie, I am quickly catching up. Girl Talk is currently offering the album for however much you are willing to pay for it. I, being poor, punched 00.00, and after answering a quick question, was able to download the album. As my one friend said, "it's way fun." SO DO IT! It's brilliance in a 53 minute package. I'd normally post a sample for y'all to peruse, but seeing as the album is free, and as I am encouraging more heads to listen to Girl Talk, I shall only leave you with a link to the album. So, there.


Girl Talk -- Feed The Animals

Why does it hurt when I hear your name

Article A--a powerpop/rock quartet from New Jersey, have been infecting this blogger with their infectious tunes as of late. My roomie gave me their album, Stay Now, to listen to--much to the pleasure of my ears.

In the vein of All-American Rejects--pop melodies with rock sensibilities--Article A deliver a truly infectious album. Their current (as well as first) single, "What's the Point" opens the disc. Thrashy guitar coupled with a head-bangin' beat and lovelorn lyrics screams Summer. Leaving this girl with a hankering for a popsicle and a drive with friends.

Article A is currently on tour promoting themselves (as well as their album) with free in-store concerts at FYE's around the nation. For a complete list of dates and cities, check out their MySpace. Check out their single, "What's the Point," below.

Article A -- What's The Point

NYC Free Concerts: GMA Concert Series

GMA's Summer Concert Series

All GMA's concerts begin at 8:30am (but you should arrive at 7am or earlier depending on the act), and are hosted at Bryant Park.

Friday, June 13
Cyndi Lauper

Friday, June 20
Boyz II Men

Friday, June 27
Maroon 5

Friday, July 4
Chaka Kahn

Friday, July 25
Feist

Friday, August 15
Donny and Marie Osmond

NYC Free Concerts: Central Park Sumerstage

Central Park Summer Stage
(am only listing concerts I am interested in, for complete schedule check out their website)


Central Park SummerStage is located at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park. Enter the park at 69th Street and 5th Avenue on the east side or at 72nd Street and Central Park West on the west side.

What to bring:
Water.
Blanket.
Friends!

Friday, June 13, 2008 | 7-10 p.m.
Mavis Staples
Stephanie McKay
Opening Night 2008!


Saturday, June 14, 2008 | 4-8 p.m.
Vampire Weekend
Kid Sister


Friday, June 20, 2008 | 8-10 p.m.
Comedy Central Park
Featuring: Stephen Lynch and Mike Birbiglia, hosted by Julian McCullough


Saturday, June 28, 2008 | 3-7 p.m.
Vieux Farka Toure
Fallou Dieng
Kaleta & ZoZo Afrobeat
Dj Sirak


Sunday, June 29, 2008 | 3-7 p.m.
Mosh Ben Ari
Rupa and The April Fishes
Y-Love
DJ Diwon


Sunday, July 20, 2008 | 3-7 p.m.
Santogold
Diplo
Plastic Little
A-Trak
Kid Cudi


Sunday, August 3, 2008 | 3-7 p.m.
Janelle Monae
Little Jackie
Jamie Lidell
Jose James
Gilles Peterson


Saturday, August 16, 2008 | 3-7 p.m.
Battles
Black Dice
Gang Gang Dance


Sunday, August 17, 2008 | 3-7 p.m.
Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings
Menahan Street Band
Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens

Who doesn't like free?

Over the next two days yours truly shall be posting about all the free concerts going on in the New York City area. Since most of these concerts are apart of a larger series, each series will be getting its own post chock full of information--location, helpful tips, times, etc.. Homegirl got you covered.

Til next time, folks!


Rozalla -- Everybody's Free