The year end always causes everyone to review their best lists of the year. I'm no exception. Per my ipod's play count, here are the most played songs / albums from 2008. Obviously the newer stuff is lower on the list, and i'm clearly biased towards REM, but it looks like a great year in music. Some details about each track to follow in the coming days.
1. Supernatural Superserious / Accelerate - R.E.M.
2. A-Punk - Vampire Weekend
3. 27 Jennifers - Mike Doughty
4. Stop Drop and Roll - Foxboro Hottubs
5. Cath... - Death Cab For Cutie
6. Vida La Vida - Coldplay
7. Sequestered In Memphis - The Hold Steady
8. Perfect Music - Poi Dog
9. Dancing Choose - TV On The Radio
10. The Shock of the Lightening - Oasis
11. No Hiding Place - Elvis Costello
12. Evil Urges - My Morning Jacket
13. Inni Mer Syngur Vitlesingur - Sigur Ros
14. Vampires - Thievery Corporation
15. I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance - Black Kids
16. Never Miss A Beat - The Kaiser Chiefs
17. California Soul - Marlena Shaw / Verve Remixed 4
18. Say Hey (I Love You) - Michael Franti & Spearhead
19. New Soul - Yael Naim
20. The Only One - The Cure
21. Forever - The Explorers Club
22. Everything Is Borrowed - The Streets
23. It's a Long Way to the Top - Lucinda Williams
Honorable Mentions -
Band of Horses, David Cook, TMBG, Mission of Burma, Plain White T's
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Is it trite to blog about yad v'shem?
After visiting Beit Lyn, Jerusalem's cac, I unexpectedly went over to yad vshem. Its completely different than 22 yrs ago. I was one of the first people in (10am Friday is like 10am Saturday in the states).
Struck by the size, scope and silence of yad vshem, I found myself lost in thought. Perhaps this becomes the middle of a unexpected and unanticipated Jewish journey which occured this last week. After seeing Jewish peoplehood at its finest in Ashkelon, I now bear witness to humanity at its worst and our people's ability to rise up and survive (which ultimately led to what I experienced in Ashkelon).
The eeire beauty and serenity over yad vshem this morning, compelled me to sit in warsaw ghetto square to at least compose my thoughts and keep them for myself for future reading.
So, maybe its a bit trite to sit and tap out thoughts, but how else iin today's world.
Holocaust is so ingrained (and maybe taken for granted) in my world, but it recharges one self seeing other tourists take in the scope of this site.
Much has changed, but quiet strength remains. Plazas and squares dedicated to events in the holocaust, a synagogue that contains the last bits of destroyed jewish populations throughout europe - gorgeous arks, torah covers, menorahs all displayed with renewed purpose. A hall of remembrance for the 1.5 million children killed with just darkened mirrored images of candles and names and ages read aloud. Massive sculptures depicting despair and triumph. All perched atop a breathtaking hillside view.
Yes - Jewish peoplehood is alive and well. After having left it professionally, its good to be back personally.
Ps - perhaps the lesson of world jewry's revival in israel may be witnessed by the very eastern european looking mother pushing a very ethiopian looking baby in a stroller at yad vshem. Proof we are one jewish people afterall
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Struck by the size, scope and silence of yad vshem, I found myself lost in thought. Perhaps this becomes the middle of a unexpected and unanticipated Jewish journey which occured this last week. After seeing Jewish peoplehood at its finest in Ashkelon, I now bear witness to humanity at its worst and our people's ability to rise up and survive (which ultimately led to what I experienced in Ashkelon).
The eeire beauty and serenity over yad vshem this morning, compelled me to sit in warsaw ghetto square to at least compose my thoughts and keep them for myself for future reading.
So, maybe its a bit trite to sit and tap out thoughts, but how else iin today's world.
Holocaust is so ingrained (and maybe taken for granted) in my world, but it recharges one self seeing other tourists take in the scope of this site.
Much has changed, but quiet strength remains. Plazas and squares dedicated to events in the holocaust, a synagogue that contains the last bits of destroyed jewish populations throughout europe - gorgeous arks, torah covers, menorahs all displayed with renewed purpose. A hall of remembrance for the 1.5 million children killed with just darkened mirrored images of candles and names and ages read aloud. Massive sculptures depicting despair and triumph. All perched atop a breathtaking hillside view.
Yes - Jewish peoplehood is alive and well. After having left it professionally, its good to be back personally.
Ps - perhaps the lesson of world jewry's revival in israel may be witnessed by the very eastern european looking mother pushing a very ethiopian looking baby in a stroller at yad vshem. Proof we are one jewish people afterall
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
My moment
I just left a pre-school where I got to join 30 four year olds who sang Hatikvah - nothing has quite hit me about being here in a Jewish homeland with "old" israelis as well as new israeli olim from ethiopia, russia, eastern europe, and even a kid from chicago than getting to experience and participate in such a moment.
And then we ate again.
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Kindergarten in Ashkelon
Shal chevit kindergartners always share the best story and food. Had sufiganot (donuts) for chanukah. PACT once again provides the program enhancement iin the classroom - 3 olim required literacy and language enhancement taught by a pact instructor, but the whole class benefits because a 4th student - non ethiopian israeli olim - needed it as well and is able to improve her language and literacy due to pact's presence.
Its wonderful to see the partnership and ancillary benefits derived from having a pact partnership with a community.
Being in shal chevit's class was just like being in my own twins' class. Parental involvement was key - today the father of one of the boys was invited to cut the dabbah (bread) and share with the class. He was given the honor (and of course, like our kindergarteners, his little boy was equally embarrassed and clingy in his presence). The father, a proud olim, was very happy to be a part of the activity
Nissim, one of the boys, gave me some art to take home, which will hang proudly in my office next to my kids' art.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Its wonderful to see the partnership and ancillary benefits derived from having a pact partnership with a community.
Being in shal chevit's class was just like being in my own twins' class. Parental involvement was key - today the father of one of the boys was invited to cut the dabbah (bread) and share with the class. He was given the honor (and of course, like our kindergarteners, his little boy was equally embarrassed and clingy in his presence). The father, a proud olim, was very happy to be a part of the activity
Nissim, one of the boys, gave me some art to take home, which will hang proudly in my office next to my kids' art.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Experiences between parents: Ethiopian Olim observations
Sitting in a riveting meeting in Netanya today. An Ethiopian-Jewish olim is sharing with us his experience (his peers) as a parent going thru absorption and PACT.
Most telling aspect is his point to preserve identity as to who they are as Ethiopians.
Most interesting, however, are the same concerns and strategies that we all use in social service delivery.
We shared ideas, saw more adorable children and their parents participating in programs all made possible or augmented by PACT.
The greatest moment of the day came during our reflections at the end of the day. Much of what we were seeing, the ethiopian-jewish experience, shared challenges all clicked. Steve Fink, my rabbi and my friend, summed it all up for our crowd of jewish and non jewish delegates as to why this was all done - because its about Jews helping other Jews. No matter where they live, what color their skin, their level of need, that's what we do, that's what JDC does, and that's why $30mm is raised by Baltimore Jews annually to support world Jewry. And although this isn't a "jewish" mission per se, the reason as to why such a life saving misson was undertaken became evident and then the group understood how and why this would work. I wish we had recorded it. All were extremely moved.
Tomorrow we visit olim in their homes inashkelon.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Most telling aspect is his point to preserve identity as to who they are as Ethiopians.
Most interesting, however, are the same concerns and strategies that we all use in social service delivery.
We shared ideas, saw more adorable children and their parents participating in programs all made possible or augmented by PACT.
The greatest moment of the day came during our reflections at the end of the day. Much of what we were seeing, the ethiopian-jewish experience, shared challenges all clicked. Steve Fink, my rabbi and my friend, summed it all up for our crowd of jewish and non jewish delegates as to why this was all done - because its about Jews helping other Jews. No matter where they live, what color their skin, their level of need, that's what we do, that's what JDC does, and that's why $30mm is raised by Baltimore Jews annually to support world Jewry. And although this isn't a "jewish" mission per se, the reason as to why such a life saving misson was undertaken became evident and then the group understood how and why this would work. I wish we had recorded it. All were extremely moved.
Tomorrow we visit olim in their homes inashkelon.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Jet lag update
Awesome - just found the ravens game. Thank goodness the nfl moved it to 3am.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Jet lag catches up with me and there is nothing on
Jet lag catches up with me at 3am
And I wish I spoke hebrew so I knew what was on tv. Israeli cable is full of international variety which I don't even pretend to understand. Shows from the us, britian, france, germany, russia, china and of course israel fill the menu of my tv
A quick run down -
Got bored of france 24 news - all headlines broadcast from a stark white set;
lots of soccer/football in multiple languages;
israeli tv has a station devoted to what must be action shows its AXN and all the clips are of action movies - the trouble is that the station appears to be just that, all action promos all the time. For the last hour I haven't seen one episode of anything, just israelis declaring their excitement over AXN! 3 other channels are like that.
Rtv1 - russian tv is broadcasting a marriage dating show broadcast from a picnic table in some indoor garden. Contestants are right out of some b level russian dating service and the host of the program looks as if she was on the 76 russian olympic wrestling team. I'm unsure from the theme music if the male contestant wins or loses by finding a mate
The other rtv1 channel has some some 80s looking band performing live and clips of a surreal branson like musical variety show with men in dresses, women dancing barefoot, other women with freakish hairdos. Now there is a borat like program call "the districts of new york". I kid you not.
There may be some israeli comedy program (I can only speculate its comedy) with a bald man squirting his own head with a water gun.
German tv's chart show, before a cheering studio audience, has a band of men and women all in kilts all are drinking some hot tea. The VW commercial with the talking vw beetle suddenly makes more sense.
Another german station has a b&w sinatra movie dubbed into german.
Oh, and there is no gideon bible in any desk drawer here.
I need sleep - we start again in 3 hours.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
And I wish I spoke hebrew so I knew what was on tv. Israeli cable is full of international variety which I don't even pretend to understand. Shows from the us, britian, france, germany, russia, china and of course israel fill the menu of my tv
A quick run down -
Got bored of france 24 news - all headlines broadcast from a stark white set;
lots of soccer/football in multiple languages;
israeli tv has a station devoted to what must be action shows its AXN and all the clips are of action movies - the trouble is that the station appears to be just that, all action promos all the time. For the last hour I haven't seen one episode of anything, just israelis declaring their excitement over AXN! 3 other channels are like that.
Rtv1 - russian tv is broadcasting a marriage dating show broadcast from a picnic table in some indoor garden. Contestants are right out of some b level russian dating service and the host of the program looks as if she was on the 76 russian olympic wrestling team. I'm unsure from the theme music if the male contestant wins or loses by finding a mate
The other rtv1 channel has some some 80s looking band performing live and clips of a surreal branson like musical variety show with men in dresses, women dancing barefoot, other women with freakish hairdos. Now there is a borat like program call "the districts of new york". I kid you not.
There may be some israeli comedy program (I can only speculate its comedy) with a bald man squirting his own head with a water gun.
German tv's chart show, before a cheering studio audience, has a band of men and women all in kilts all are drinking some hot tea. The VW commercial with the talking vw beetle suddenly makes more sense.
Another german station has a b&w sinatra movie dubbed into german.
Oh, and there is no gideon bible in any desk drawer here.
I need sleep - we start again in 3 hours.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Dinner and seinfeld
So I guess I hadn't written in 6 hours or so. Had a 5 course dinner at a fantastic restaurant - cordelia - in old jaffa. Wow, what a feast. Great wine, stimulating discussion (led by maia hoffman's husband avi) and just course after course of great food.
Old jaffa is much like eze france. Small cobblestone streets in an almost medieval village. Beautiful area. Lots of schwarma stands as well - definite eats for tomorrow.
Hotel is on the med - walked out to the patio before we left and its amazing to be here.
Full day tomorrow driving south to beershva. In the meantime, I will try to fall asleep watching israeli tv - and yes, seinfeld is run here as well at 1130 pm. Nothing changes - jews everywhere love their seinfeld.
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In israel
I'm here in Israel! Just landed. The wonders of modern medicine that I fell asleep before Dublin and awoke after Greece. I'm rested and ready to go.
Is it hokey to comment that the music playing on continental's inflight was "home" by daughtry? Haven't been here in 22 yrs and yes it feels like coming home again.
The flight was great - more people davening in the back than waiting for the rest room made for short lines. Even the meal was palatable.
Its sunny and 80 in tel aviv today.
More to come.
Adam
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
That joyous sound
No, i'm not talking about my favorite holiday and xmas music (post to appear soon), but i am talking about a surprising trend i've seen lately - the music that is beginning to appear is less chaotic and forboding and frankly more joyful. maybe its what i like to listen to, but some of those who are known for their brooding droning songs suddenly put out some sounds that have glints of happiness. like they all listend to the polyphonic spree.
take for example, the latest release from iceland's sigur ros - a great band who provided much of the mournful tunes as background on npr or in your own darkest hours, released something absolutely full of bliss. it's upbeat, cheerful, catchy, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. one disclaimer - it's all in icelandic (or whatever they speak) and they could be joyfully singing about the end of days, but it still sounds fun. download "inni mer syngur vitleysingur" which does translate to "within me a lunatic sings." Maybe the lunatic is more fun than his normal presence.
or what about Paul McCartney as The Fireman having a great time with "Sing The Changes" from his latest release; or Coldplay's "Life In Technicolor" or "Lovers In Japan" from Vida La Vida (but avoid the comical duet with Jay-Z on the remix of Lost); or even the master of moping around Robert Smith and The Cure's "The Only One" from 4:13 dream? You can't even put that song in the same play list as the old cure.
want more evidence - try periennally heartbroken Lucinda Williams' Little Honey. The title track along with "Real Love" and a great barroom cover of AC/DC's "Long way to the top if you want to rock and roll" show evidence of this happy streak. Even on the other side of the pond, England's The Streets raps how "Everything is Borrowed" in a world where he is leaves with nothing but love. Unrecognizable optimism from a moody rapper.
complete your happy 2008 playlist with - The Black Kids "I'm not gonna teach your boyfriend to dance with you" and Michael Franti's "Say Hey, I Love You."
and you know what - most of this will be on my 10 best of 2008 because its so much fun. it's good to be happy in your headphones again. enjoy.
i'm not complaining - in fact, i'm enjoying it. it's
take for example, the latest release from iceland's sigur ros - a great band who provided much of the mournful tunes as background on npr or in your own darkest hours, released something absolutely full of bliss. it's upbeat, cheerful, catchy, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. one disclaimer - it's all in icelandic (or whatever they speak) and they could be joyfully singing about the end of days, but it still sounds fun. download "inni mer syngur vitleysingur" which does translate to "within me a lunatic sings." Maybe the lunatic is more fun than his normal presence.
or what about Paul McCartney as The Fireman having a great time with "Sing The Changes" from his latest release; or Coldplay's "Life In Technicolor" or "Lovers In Japan" from Vida La Vida (but avoid the comical duet with Jay-Z on the remix of Lost); or even the master of moping around Robert Smith and The Cure's "The Only One" from 4:13 dream? You can't even put that song in the same play list as the old cure.
want more evidence - try periennally heartbroken Lucinda Williams' Little Honey. The title track along with "Real Love" and a great barroom cover of AC/DC's "Long way to the top if you want to rock and roll" show evidence of this happy streak. Even on the other side of the pond, England's The Streets raps how "Everything is Borrowed" in a world where he is leaves with nothing but love. Unrecognizable optimism from a moody rapper.
complete your happy 2008 playlist with - The Black Kids "I'm not gonna teach your boyfriend to dance with you" and Michael Franti's "Say Hey, I Love You."
and you know what - most of this will be on my 10 best of 2008 because its so much fun. it's good to be happy in your headphones again. enjoy.
i'm not complaining - in fact, i'm enjoying it. it's
Monday, November 3, 2008
Join us at BCAC's Open House on Dec. 4th
The Baltimore Child Abuse Center is hosting its first Open House on December 4th from 5:30 to 8pm.
Live music by The Nerftones (see their stuff on their My Space page), food and wine and lots of people.
Come by and see what we do. RSVP first please.
Warm regards,
Adam
PS - If you want to learn more, visit our site at www.BaltimoreChildAbuseCenter.org
Saturday, September 27, 2008
The kids song guaranteed to get you in trouble
Lots of kids music came out this summer. All the giants, monsters of kid rock if you will, released new music - Dan Zanes has a very cool spanish album, Ralph Covert released another consistent cd, and Laurie Berkner returned. I must admit - i have heard none of them, and fear that me and my kids may be getting past that age. gasp.
I did download and share one gem with the twins. Kimya Dawson (of the Moldy Peaches and Juno fame) released a 54 second doozy called "Alphabutt." If you know her quirky anti-folk style, you'll know exactly what it is - A to Z with butt, doody and potty words appropriate for the pre-school set.
My kids thought it hilarious. I credit NPR's brilliant "All Songs Considered" for introducing it to me as one of their songs of the summer.
Don't let the Mrs know you shared the potty humor with the kids - but it's good and mirthful. Worth the 99 cents on itunes.
I did download and share one gem with the twins. Kimya Dawson (of the Moldy Peaches and Juno fame) released a 54 second doozy called "Alphabutt." If you know her quirky anti-folk style, you'll know exactly what it is - A to Z with butt, doody and potty words appropriate for the pre-school set.
My kids thought it hilarious. I credit NPR's brilliant "All Songs Considered" for introducing it to me as one of their songs of the summer.
Don't let the Mrs know you shared the potty humor with the kids - but it's good and mirthful. Worth the 99 cents on itunes.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
My Surprise Summer Albums
So, summer winds down and I have heard a lot of great music this summer which is worth sharing.
On the live music front, I only got to hear REM live (see last post) which was spectacular to say the least. There has been a great feed from REM's website which shows some great clips of the show. It will be a terrific live DVD when it comes out. Later that month, we caught the Thievery Corporation in the driving rain at Merriweather. Another great show by TC and I think that live they are even better than on CD. Look for a new TC album this fall.
What's come out that you can buy or download? My album picks for the summer were two that caught me off guard, have that great very alt-country feel and hadn't been on my radar as well.
My Morning Jacket's "Evil Urges" is such a deftly produced, well crafted album that talks about obsession, love, lack of control all neatly packaged with a mix of Beck-meets -the Allmans. It's quite a listen. I am particularly taken by the first single "I'm Amazed" and the title opening track has an unbelievable guitar solo.
But MMJ has been on everyone's radar - even more of a surprise to me has been Band of Horses "Cease to Begin" which is truly an eye opening experience. Harboring some of the same southern roots that MMJ perfected and modernized on Evil Urges, Cease to Begin is full of lovely sentiments and if frankly quite haunting - the CD could have been recorded in a haunted house. Earnest (supertramp like) vocals, some great musicianship, and some smart lyrics come together for 34 power packed minutes. Yes, it is a 2007 release, but I think the band has been rapidly picking up steam since the close of last year's 'best of' polls and is a great humid summer night, windows open disc. Both Evil Urges and Cease to Begin are terriffic late night driving albums. Their cohension, their perspective, and their raw emotion make them both must owns for any collection.
On the live music front, I only got to hear REM live (see last post) which was spectacular to say the least. There has been a great feed from REM's website which shows some great clips of the show. It will be a terrific live DVD when it comes out. Later that month, we caught the Thievery Corporation in the driving rain at Merriweather. Another great show by TC and I think that live they are even better than on CD. Look for a new TC album this fall.
What's come out that you can buy or download? My album picks for the summer were two that caught me off guard, have that great very alt-country feel and hadn't been on my radar as well.
My Morning Jacket's "Evil Urges" is such a deftly produced, well crafted album that talks about obsession, love, lack of control all neatly packaged with a mix of Beck-meets -the Allmans. It's quite a listen. I am particularly taken by the first single "I'm Amazed" and the title opening track has an unbelievable guitar solo.
But MMJ has been on everyone's radar - even more of a surprise to me has been Band of Horses "Cease to Begin" which is truly an eye opening experience. Harboring some of the same southern roots that MMJ perfected and modernized on Evil Urges, Cease to Begin is full of lovely sentiments and if frankly quite haunting - the CD could have been recorded in a haunted house. Earnest (supertramp like) vocals, some great musicianship, and some smart lyrics come together for 34 power packed minutes. Yes, it is a 2007 release, but I think the band has been rapidly picking up steam since the close of last year's 'best of' polls and is a great humid summer night, windows open disc. Both Evil Urges and Cease to Begin are terriffic late night driving albums. Their cohension, their perspective, and their raw emotion make them both must owns for any collection.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Finest Worksong, indeed
Wow. Sklar and I had the treat of seeing REM live in the 5th row at Merriweather last night. It was unbelieveable, and the band started off with noneother than Finest Worksong which rocked.
Needless to say, it was a classic REM night to remember.
Enjoy my pics here, posted on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=41204&l=78c84&id=758578661
As a final treat, the band posted their classic cover of Mission of Burma's Academy Fight Song. Enjoy
Needless to say, it was a classic REM night to remember.
Enjoy my pics here, posted on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=41204&l=78c84&id=758578661
As a final treat, the band posted their classic cover of Mission of Burma's Academy Fight Song. Enjoy
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Big tour news, for you and your kids
This is big. Although painfully corporate, the Disney Music Block Party Tour is coming to Merriweather (and a town near you) this summer. And yes, it's the Lolla of tours for kids - Dan Zanes, Ralph's World and TMBG all on one bill! And my friend Mike will be happy to hear that Choo Choo Soul is on ticket as well.
http://www.disneymusicblockpartytour.com/
Of course its a Tuesday and a Wednesday during the week - so insanely, you'd have to take off to see this show, or see them in Philly that weekend but miss TMBG. Tough calls. Of course at $36 a pop for all but your 2 year olds, it's a bit steep. But I think I'd have more fun here than at this year's sweat and dirt covered V-Festival.
http://www.disneymusicblockpartytour.com/
Of course its a Tuesday and a Wednesday during the week - so insanely, you'd have to take off to see this show, or see them in Philly that weekend but miss TMBG. Tough calls. Of course at $36 a pop for all but your 2 year olds, it's a bit steep. But I think I'd have more fun here than at this year's sweat and dirt covered V-Festival.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
if you like Energy by Apples in Stereo...
...then odds are you will love this solo kids album by the Apples' lead singer Robert Schneider. Clip and album preview at Zooglobble. http://www.zooglobble.com/archives/2008/05/puppies_clocks_and_ducks_new_music.html
But it's pretty clear that their inclusion this year's birthday mix fits the kid-friendly / family friendly bill. enjoy and let me know what you think of it.
But it's pretty clear that their inclusion this year's birthday mix fits the kid-friendly / family friendly bill. enjoy and let me know what you think of it.
Monday, May 26, 2008
This month's picks
Happy Memorial Day! At the club today, I learned I had fans, or at least, a fan - that's you David R. - if you forgot, get Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots by The Flaming Lips, it's their best work IMHO, and if you and Dad are feeling adventurous, try Skylarking and Oranges & Lemons by XTC.
Now for the rest of you - what's been going on in kindie rock land? Well the giant of all kids artists Ralph's World just released his lastest "The Rhyming Circus." I have not heard it, but I trust Zooglobble's review http://www.zooglobble.com/archives/2008/05/review_the_rhyming_circus_ralphs_wo.html and know it's on my short list.
I've also posted about them before, but The Jimmies continue to grow on me. It's such a great meld of power pop, kindie rock, and a touch of someone I cannot recall from the 80s that I love it. More importantly, the kids love it too. A & S each love different tracks proving (a) they are a band that appeals to all and (b) my twins are two different people. Hear more here: http://www.gimmejimmies.com/
As for you adults out there (and you David R.), I just got wind of the Foxboro Hottubs (the pseudonym of Green Day) which is one fun hot LP. I think I love it because it moves fast and dirty, just like Accelerate by R.E.M. Both are must have CDs or downloads for your summer roadtrips. And if you are downloading, spend the extra $1.98 and get the R.E.M. b-sides (or really splurge another $3.96 and get the live versions of 4 songs) from Accelerate which harken back to the days of Reckoning and Chronic Town. Redhead Walking and Airline are vintage R.E.M. which could have fallen through a worm hole in 1982 and ended up here and brand new. The whole CD is solid work, and those 2 tracks are icing on the cake. It's been well worth the wait. From there, I expect to shortly get into early dbs, X, Stooges, Television, and the Minutemen - all of which inspired these 2 fine releases.
If the late ska / reggae influenced music is more your thing, get Vampire Weekend. It had a huge deal of hype (i guess because they are Columbia grads with an indie-EP) but I think it lives up to it. It reminds me (and every other reviewer) of early Talking Heads, Police, Clash, and English Beat. Their self titled debute major release is worth the $9.99 to hear it all summer long.
Lastly, yes, I voted for David Cook. I'm thrilled he won. I downloaded Dream Big. It's a great cheesy driving song. Enjoy.
Now for the rest of you - what's been going on in kindie rock land? Well the giant of all kids artists Ralph's World just released his lastest "The Rhyming Circus." I have not heard it, but I trust Zooglobble's review http://www.zooglobble.com/archives/2008/05/review_the_rhyming_circus_ralphs_wo.html and know it's on my short list.
I've also posted about them before, but The Jimmies continue to grow on me. It's such a great meld of power pop, kindie rock, and a touch of someone I cannot recall from the 80s that I love it. More importantly, the kids love it too. A & S each love different tracks proving (a) they are a band that appeals to all and (b) my twins are two different people. Hear more here: http://www.gimmejimmies.com/
As for you adults out there (and you David R.), I just got wind of the Foxboro Hottubs (the pseudonym of Green Day) which is one fun hot LP. I think I love it because it moves fast and dirty, just like Accelerate by R.E.M. Both are must have CDs or downloads for your summer roadtrips. And if you are downloading, spend the extra $1.98 and get the R.E.M. b-sides (or really splurge another $3.96 and get the live versions of 4 songs) from Accelerate which harken back to the days of Reckoning and Chronic Town. Redhead Walking and Airline are vintage R.E.M. which could have fallen through a worm hole in 1982 and ended up here and brand new. The whole CD is solid work, and those 2 tracks are icing on the cake. It's been well worth the wait. From there, I expect to shortly get into early dbs, X, Stooges, Television, and the Minutemen - all of which inspired these 2 fine releases.
If the late ska / reggae influenced music is more your thing, get Vampire Weekend. It had a huge deal of hype (i guess because they are Columbia grads with an indie-EP) but I think it lives up to it. It reminds me (and every other reviewer) of early Talking Heads, Police, Clash, and English Beat. Their self titled debute major release is worth the $9.99 to hear it all summer long.
Lastly, yes, I voted for David Cook. I'm thrilled he won. I downloaded Dream Big. It's a great cheesy driving song. Enjoy.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Party with the King
My brother is the king. Soon to come more photos from Graceland with everyone stopping to take pics with the King . To see more, click here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=33609&l=427b6&id=758578661
it was a great time. music wise was a bit unimpressive. i had high hopes for the beale street scene, but most was just more lousy bar bands. we did listen to an impressive about of elvis (aloha from hawaii), johnny cash (essential cash), and of course early R.E.M. Dueling Banjos was played several times as well.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
-----Original Message-----
From: David Rosenberg <djrphilly@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, 16 May 2008 13:37:03
To:Adam Rosenberg <adamcrosenberg@gmail.com>
Subject: Elvis
Sent from my iPhone
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Jon Stewart interviews Bush...
...or as close as he gets to it. Enjoy the video, and if you are so moved as well, you can click thru to donate to the NY Center for Autism.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
The 2008 Birthday CD
Well friends, this is the annual CD that started it all and led to the blog. The annual mix cd that we give out at the twins' birthday party. It's a hot item and people long to collect them. It's whole premise has always been to provide music that isn't the same old tripe that's been put out for kids for years, nor is it music that is older than them.
This is true "kindie rock".
The songs have been vetted by my kids and they give them the thumbs up or down of approval. This year has expecially been put together by A&S - so yes some of the songs may be a bit naseating for some adults, but all in all, they represent the great movement that has exploded in kids music, fortunately around the same time our kids were born.
This year has a bare theme of pirates - we have 3 songs about pirates on the cd. The girls wanted a pirate party and for about 6 months we were geared up to something ridiculous at home. Fortunately, the pirate ship at Ultimate Play Zone did the trick.
So, without further ado (and a hearty welcome to you first time readers - explore the blog, you'll get some great music tips for you and your kids) - behind the CD 2008. Post your comments, tell me what you liked!
1. Pirates - Milkshake (from the album Play!) Milkshake also coincided with our own discovery of Kindie Rock. Lisa & Michael from Milkshake have been putting together great kids music for years now and I make it point to include their work on my cd. We're all big fans and whatever we can do to promote them is great. Go to milkshakemusic.com to hear and see more video.
2. My Green Kite – Peter Himmelman (from the album My Green Kite). As I previously wrote, in December 2007, the other son of Bob has put together a wonderful album full of funny songs that you can easily sing along to and that are smarter than the average bear. My Green Kite was even nominated for a grammy this year. It's solid. Check out www.peterhimmelman.com/kids.html for more as well as a link to free podcast of Peter playing some songs for the Land of Nod.
3. That’s How You Know – Amy Adams (from Enchanted OST). This song comes on from Disney's very funny Enchanted movie and the whole family starts singing. The steel drum and calypso sounds make this a perfect Disney song, even if the movie has its tounge firmly planted in cheek. Read my review from December 2007 as well, and go rent the movie.
4. What’s On Your Shirt? - The Jimmies (from Make Your Own Someday). Sounding a lot like early 80s alternapunk on some tracks, and sweet sing-a-long on others, The Jimmies come from NYC and deliver a great CD for the family. This track is the first my kids heard from it and they love it, especially the stains on the shirt. Look up http://www.gimmejimmies.com/ or their myspace page for more. The Jimmies are going to be hot - you heard it hear first.
5. Energy – The Apples In Stereo (from New Magnetic Wonder). Not a kids song, but my kids adore it. Its simple, catchy, Polyphonic Spree meets TMBG meets Schoolhouse Rock. If you like the weird brilliance of The Flaming Lips, then this is my present to you. http://www.applesinstereo.com/
6. High Five! – They Might Be Giants (from Here Come The 123's). Certainly this year's most hyped product, the band that many of us grew up with from the '80s has finally refined its kids product for our kids and manages to put together a canon of songs that fits neatly with much of their work. Sure, some of it is absurd, some of it drives my wife nuts, but the twins adore the cd. It's a new Schoolhouse Rock for a new century. Read my review http://finestworksongs.blogspot.com/2008/02/here-come-123s-they-might-be-giants.html and enjoy this hip disco single. View the video here
7. Let’s Go Everywhere – Medeski, Martin & Wood (from Let's Go Everywhere). Let's just start by saying that I have loved this jazz funk trio for 15 years since I saw them at CBGB's (yes I am dropping names). The fact they came up with a jazz funk disc, for kids, makes them awesomer. This modern update of the Johnny Cash classic (see track 18) is a hoot. Read the review http://finestworksongs.blogspot.com/2008/03/mmws-letmusic-for-kids-and-you-as-well.html and enjoy the music!
8. Smile Smile Smile – Dan Zanes & Friends (from Night Time!). I didn't "get" the Dan Zanes phenomenon when I first started listening 5 years ago. Maybe I wasn't ready for it, maybe it was the hype. Night Time! brought me around - this a great CD for your kids. This lead single, which gets lots of play on Disney, is a treat. It's just right for this age group and its sweet and safe. Musically, its real sharp.
9. Spanimals – The Jimmies. What makes this track standout is the cool latin salsa beat, the smart use of spanish to teach animals, and the excellent video that is way too cool for kids. Available on youtube, at their website http://www.gimmejimmies.com/spanimals.html, or here
10. Don’t Let Us Bug Ya – Andy Partridge (from The Best of The Land of Nod Store Music, Vol. 2). Here's a hard to find track, from the hard to find genius behind the great 80s band XTC. Partridge apparrently put together a proposed soundtrack to a kids movie that got scrapped. The songs however, are fine XTC work aimed at kids, and their parents.
11. Birthday - Milkshake (unreleased). Milkshake did a set of songs for Discovery's Todd's World, Noggin's Jack's Big Music Show, and PBS. This was one of them, and its perfect for the Cd. Thanks Lisa!
12. Feet – Peter Himmelman "Shmendick loves his feet" and so do my kids.
13. Pirate Girls Nine – They Might Be Giants Admittedly, this may be the song that has you question my choices - but its catchy, its quirky, it has twins, and its about pirates, so it had to make the cd.
14. Beadhead – The Jimmies I see all these kids (especially the boys) come into school with beadhead and I thought this was a perfect song for them. Its also a bit more punk like than the other Jimmies tracks.
15. If You Ever See An Owl … - The Terrible Twos (from If You Ever See An Owl). This is a cool cd that came out last year. The band does double time as The New Amsterdams and they have a great accoustic sound. It's really an enjoyable chill out cd for kids that satisfies throughout. Sort of like Ralph's World (absent from this CD but due for new material in May) without the weirdness. if you like it, sample the rest at their myspace page http://www.myspace.com/theterribletwosband
16. Happy Working Song – Amy Adams Proving that this movie had a sense of humor, this track parodies the classic Disney clean up songs. If you've seen the movie, you'll laugh. Listen close to the words.
17. Down By The Riverside – Dan Zanes & Friends
18. I’ve Been Everywhere – Webb Wilder & The Blue Sea (from Lightning McQueen's Fast Tracks). Johnny Cash did it first, and this cover by country music legend Webb Wilder kicks some butt here. Between track 7 and this one, you'll have been everywhere.
19. 7 Days Of The Week (I Never Go To Work) - TMBG
20. The Na Na Song – Dan Nichols & Ei8hteen (from Be Strong). Isaac, the guitar wielding pied piper from the kids school plays this song all the time. What kid doesn't like to go "na na na"? http://www.jewishrock.com/index2.asp
21. Lady Bug – The Terrible Twos
22. Hello Happiness - Milkshake (unreleased). Lisa and Milkshake demoed some songs for Club Med this year. Our local favorites have become their soundtrack. You can download the two chosen for Club Med here http://miniclubmedsong.fullsix.com/. But with apologies to those who voted, and with thanks to Lisa, this track which is included just for you is the best one. Hope it sees the light of day one day.
23. Pay Me My Money Down – Dan Zanes & Friends I wanted to include the longer Springsteen version from Live In Dublin, but it was too long for the disc. The kids love this one anyway.
24. Pirates Don’t Take Baths – Medeski, Martin & Wood A second great fun song from MMW and of course is pirate themed.
The Bonus Track 25. Mr. Rabbit - Paul Westerberg (from Stereo). Paul Westerberg is one of the great songwriter singers of the last 25 years. Between his groundbreaking early 80s post punk with The Replacements and his solo accoustic work, I always enjoy Westerberg. I figured since last year's bonus track was Birthday Gal, an unreleased 'Mats song, you all deserve some more Westerberg. This one came from a 2002 solo release and stuck in my head. It's kid friendly enough.
See you next year!
This is true "kindie rock".
The songs have been vetted by my kids and they give them the thumbs up or down of approval. This year has expecially been put together by A&S - so yes some of the songs may be a bit naseating for some adults, but all in all, they represent the great movement that has exploded in kids music, fortunately around the same time our kids were born.
This year has a bare theme of pirates - we have 3 songs about pirates on the cd. The girls wanted a pirate party and for about 6 months we were geared up to something ridiculous at home. Fortunately, the pirate ship at Ultimate Play Zone did the trick.
So, without further ado (and a hearty welcome to you first time readers - explore the blog, you'll get some great music tips for you and your kids) - behind the CD 2008. Post your comments, tell me what you liked!
1. Pirates - Milkshake (from the album Play!) Milkshake also coincided with our own discovery of Kindie Rock. Lisa & Michael from Milkshake have been putting together great kids music for years now and I make it point to include their work on my cd. We're all big fans and whatever we can do to promote them is great. Go to milkshakemusic.com to hear and see more video.
2. My Green Kite – Peter Himmelman (from the album My Green Kite). As I previously wrote, in December 2007, the other son of Bob has put together a wonderful album full of funny songs that you can easily sing along to and that are smarter than the average bear. My Green Kite was even nominated for a grammy this year. It's solid. Check out www.peterhimmelman.com/kids.html for more as well as a link to free podcast of Peter playing some songs for the Land of Nod.
3. That’s How You Know – Amy Adams (from Enchanted OST). This song comes on from Disney's very funny Enchanted movie and the whole family starts singing. The steel drum and calypso sounds make this a perfect Disney song, even if the movie has its tounge firmly planted in cheek. Read my review from December 2007 as well, and go rent the movie.
4. What’s On Your Shirt? - The Jimmies (from Make Your Own Someday). Sounding a lot like early 80s alternapunk on some tracks, and sweet sing-a-long on others, The Jimmies come from NYC and deliver a great CD for the family. This track is the first my kids heard from it and they love it, especially the stains on the shirt. Look up http://www.gimmejimmies.com/ or their myspace page for more. The Jimmies are going to be hot - you heard it hear first.
5. Energy – The Apples In Stereo (from New Magnetic Wonder). Not a kids song, but my kids adore it. Its simple, catchy, Polyphonic Spree meets TMBG meets Schoolhouse Rock. If you like the weird brilliance of The Flaming Lips, then this is my present to you. http://www.applesinstereo.com/
6. High Five! – They Might Be Giants (from Here Come The 123's). Certainly this year's most hyped product, the band that many of us grew up with from the '80s has finally refined its kids product for our kids and manages to put together a canon of songs that fits neatly with much of their work. Sure, some of it is absurd, some of it drives my wife nuts, but the twins adore the cd. It's a new Schoolhouse Rock for a new century. Read my review http://finestworksongs.blogspot.com/2008/02/here-come-123s-they-might-be-giants.html and enjoy this hip disco single. View the video here
7. Let’s Go Everywhere – Medeski, Martin & Wood (from Let's Go Everywhere). Let's just start by saying that I have loved this jazz funk trio for 15 years since I saw them at CBGB's (yes I am dropping names). The fact they came up with a jazz funk disc, for kids, makes them awesomer. This modern update of the Johnny Cash classic (see track 18) is a hoot. Read the review http://finestworksongs.blogspot.com/2008/03/mmws-letmusic-for-kids-and-you-as-well.html and enjoy the music!
8. Smile Smile Smile – Dan Zanes & Friends (from Night Time!). I didn't "get" the Dan Zanes phenomenon when I first started listening 5 years ago. Maybe I wasn't ready for it, maybe it was the hype. Night Time! brought me around - this a great CD for your kids. This lead single, which gets lots of play on Disney, is a treat. It's just right for this age group and its sweet and safe. Musically, its real sharp.
9. Spanimals – The Jimmies. What makes this track standout is the cool latin salsa beat, the smart use of spanish to teach animals, and the excellent video that is way too cool for kids. Available on youtube, at their website http://www.gimmejimmies.com/spanimals.html, or here
10. Don’t Let Us Bug Ya – Andy Partridge (from The Best of The Land of Nod Store Music, Vol. 2). Here's a hard to find track, from the hard to find genius behind the great 80s band XTC. Partridge apparrently put together a proposed soundtrack to a kids movie that got scrapped. The songs however, are fine XTC work aimed at kids, and their parents.
11. Birthday - Milkshake (unreleased). Milkshake did a set of songs for Discovery's Todd's World, Noggin's Jack's Big Music Show, and PBS. This was one of them, and its perfect for the Cd. Thanks Lisa!
12. Feet – Peter Himmelman "Shmendick loves his feet" and so do my kids.
13. Pirate Girls Nine – They Might Be Giants Admittedly, this may be the song that has you question my choices - but its catchy, its quirky, it has twins, and its about pirates, so it had to make the cd.
14. Beadhead – The Jimmies I see all these kids (especially the boys) come into school with beadhead and I thought this was a perfect song for them. Its also a bit more punk like than the other Jimmies tracks.
15. If You Ever See An Owl … - The Terrible Twos (from If You Ever See An Owl). This is a cool cd that came out last year. The band does double time as The New Amsterdams and they have a great accoustic sound. It's really an enjoyable chill out cd for kids that satisfies throughout. Sort of like Ralph's World (absent from this CD but due for new material in May) without the weirdness. if you like it, sample the rest at their myspace page http://www.myspace.com/theterribletwosband
16. Happy Working Song – Amy Adams Proving that this movie had a sense of humor, this track parodies the classic Disney clean up songs. If you've seen the movie, you'll laugh. Listen close to the words.
17. Down By The Riverside – Dan Zanes & Friends
18. I’ve Been Everywhere – Webb Wilder & The Blue Sea (from Lightning McQueen's Fast Tracks). Johnny Cash did it first, and this cover by country music legend Webb Wilder kicks some butt here. Between track 7 and this one, you'll have been everywhere.
19. 7 Days Of The Week (I Never Go To Work) - TMBG
20. The Na Na Song – Dan Nichols & Ei8hteen (from Be Strong). Isaac, the guitar wielding pied piper from the kids school plays this song all the time. What kid doesn't like to go "na na na"? http://www.jewishrock.com/index2.asp
21. Lady Bug – The Terrible Twos
22. Hello Happiness - Milkshake (unreleased). Lisa and Milkshake demoed some songs for Club Med this year. Our local favorites have become their soundtrack. You can download the two chosen for Club Med here http://miniclubmedsong.fullsix.com/. But with apologies to those who voted, and with thanks to Lisa, this track which is included just for you is the best one. Hope it sees the light of day one day.
23. Pay Me My Money Down – Dan Zanes & Friends I wanted to include the longer Springsteen version from Live In Dublin, but it was too long for the disc. The kids love this one anyway.
24. Pirates Don’t Take Baths – Medeski, Martin & Wood A second great fun song from MMW and of course is pirate themed.
The Bonus Track 25. Mr. Rabbit - Paul Westerberg (from Stereo). Paul Westerberg is one of the great songwriter singers of the last 25 years. Between his groundbreaking early 80s post punk with The Replacements and his solo accoustic work, I always enjoy Westerberg. I figured since last year's bonus track was Birthday Gal, an unreleased 'Mats song, you all deserve some more Westerberg. This one came from a 2002 solo release and stuck in my head. It's kid friendly enough.
See you next year!
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Finest Worksongs - the album
In anticipation of Tuesday's hotly anticipated and well reviewed release of Accelerate (the new R.E.M. album), I decided to post a review of a great covers disc that recently came across my way. Finest Worksongs - Athens bands play the music of R.E.M. is the recording of a night dedicated last September 06 to just that - the eve to the last R.E.M. greatest hits compilation and an eeire companion. The results are a wonderful range of songs that range from the faithful cover to the ingenious reinterpretations. If you were lucky enough to belong to the fan club last year you received a 4 song cd of the night.
Contained therein are 17 covers and one song based on another. The cd opens with a spooky version of "The One I Love" by Liz Durret. Redone from the vantage point of an obsessed lover it haunts me. Throughout it we get to hear some of today's athens artists doing new takes on "Perfect Circle" by Modern Skirts and "Leaving New York" by Five Eight (both great and raw), flashback sounds like "Second Guessing" by Patterson Hood and "Radio Free Europe" by Five Eight which could have come from the original church on Oconee and revisions of "Fall on Me" by Bain Mattox, "Feeling Gravitys Pull" by The Obersvatory, and "Wendell Gee" by Claire Campbell. R.E.M. themselves appear towards the end of the night on "Radio Free" as well as the closer "It's The End of the World"
All in all - if you love REM, you will appreciate the night. If you like REM you might find something new to hold onto and learn from. Check it out at yes, http://www.finestworksongs.com/ on Iron Horse Records. As a PS to it all, the cd also introduced me to athensmusic.net which is a great home to all things athens music related. Thanks to Jeff Montgomery for bringing my attention to this fine night.
Contained therein are 17 covers and one song based on another. The cd opens with a spooky version of "The One I Love" by Liz Durret. Redone from the vantage point of an obsessed lover it haunts me. Throughout it we get to hear some of today's athens artists doing new takes on "Perfect Circle" by Modern Skirts and "Leaving New York" by Five Eight (both great and raw), flashback sounds like "Second Guessing" by Patterson Hood and "Radio Free Europe" by Five Eight which could have come from the original church on Oconee and revisions of "Fall on Me" by Bain Mattox, "Feeling Gravitys Pull" by The Obersvatory, and "Wendell Gee" by Claire Campbell. R.E.M. themselves appear towards the end of the night on "Radio Free" as well as the closer "It's The End of the World"
All in all - if you love REM, you will appreciate the night. If you like REM you might find something new to hold onto and learn from. Check it out at yes, http://www.finestworksongs.com/ on Iron Horse Records. As a PS to it all, the cd also introduced me to athensmusic.net which is a great home to all things athens music related. Thanks to Jeff Montgomery for bringing my attention to this fine night.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
MMW's Let's Go Everywhere (Music for Kids, and you as well)
With apologies, its been a few weeks since I've seriously posted, and even longer since I gave you all a great family disc. One such overdue entry is Medeski Martin & Wood's first "kids" album Let's Go Everywhere. This enjoyable, infectious (in the good way) album has something for everyone in the family, especially those of us who love some good funk-jazz.
If you don't know them, Medeski Martin & Wood (MMW) are among the strongest and best in the funk-jazz category. Drawing heavily and almost exclusively on bass, keyboards and drums, This trio has for well over 15 years (at least that's how long I've had the pleasure of listening, even got to see them at CBGB's) put together a new sound for jazz and music alike. Maybe you recognize their sound from the Get Shorty soundtrack, or any number of festivals that cropped up after the Dead, but it works for kids of all ages as well.
The disc, which looks like its got art from the Yellow Submarine period, starts off sweet with the aptly titled instrumental "Waking Up." The disc then erupts with some great keyboard work into the title track which is a modern day "I've Been Everywhere." Like the rest of the album, the musician-ship isn't dumbed down or simplyfied just because its for kids. MMW plays just as hard and fierce and smartly as they do on any of their albums for adults. But the lyrics are squarely meant for my kinder, telling them that when they are "tired of your toys, and of your games, and of the television, when you're done with chores and homework" then it's time to put on "a little music" and "buckle up and go for a little ride." This CD does just that. The places we go are fun as well - cities like Bombay, Havana, and Aqaba and fictional places like Whoville and Cloud City - and is a fun sing-a-long for all of you. Download it for free (and explore some other MMW) at their website http://mmw.net/mp3/Letsgoeverywhere.mp3
The rest of the disc follows the same model. There are some songs for all to sing to ("Pirates Don't Take Baths" is a family favorite), a few standards like a rapping "Pat A Cake" and a few great instrumental only tracks which groove like MMW does best mixed in. My personal favorite to pull into carpool line is "Where's The Music" which is almost all without words, except when the music stops, a chorus of kids, as well as my own 2, yell "WHERE'S THE MUSIC!"
It's a blast - go enjoy it today. Listen to more of it at their myspace page http://www.myspace.com/letsgoeverywhere. You might even like it more than your kids. The upside is that when MMW comes to town, you can bring the kids.
For more on MMW for adults - check out Friday Afternoon in The Universe, Tonic, or their work with legendary John Scofield.
Monday, February 25, 2008
More R.E.M. News
Great News! NPR's excellent live concert series, All Songs Considered, will be broadcasting and possibly podcasting R.E.M.'s SXSW performance on March 12th. Check out the news here http://remhq.com/news_story.php?id=681.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
New R.E.M. is coming
Springtime is around the corner! My daffodils are peeking out of the ground, its not painfully cold, and a new R.E.M. is coming April 1st. Rebirth indeed.
After completely enjoying the preview from the Dublin shows circulated last summer and the live REM cd/dvd my appetite is sufficiently whetted for new material. The new CD Accelerate produced by Jacknife Lee who re-energized U2 with their last colassal release, sounds like has done the same with the boys from Athens, GA.
For your first real taste of it, check out the video here http://www.amazon.com/gp/mpd/permalink/m1BCDCAO844O72:m6DURP8KF8DU3
or just go to itunes and download it already. Its fun, it sounds like the son of "Pageant" and "Fables," its got great Mike Mills harmony, and best of all, it has a summer camp reference.
After completely enjoying the preview from the Dublin shows circulated last summer and the live REM cd/dvd my appetite is sufficiently whetted for new material. The new CD Accelerate produced by Jacknife Lee who re-energized U2 with their last colassal release, sounds like has done the same with the boys from Athens, GA.
For your first real taste of it, check out the video here http://www.amazon.com/gp/mpd/permalink/m1BCDCAO844O72:m6DURP8KF8DU3
or just go to itunes and download it already. Its fun, it sounds like the son of "Pageant" and "Fables," its got great Mike Mills harmony, and best of all, it has a summer camp reference.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Here Come The 123’s - They Might Be Giants
I’m sure most of us have always thought TMBG had a great youthful and mirthful sensibility to their large canon of music. Since their mid 80s debut of Don’t Let’s Start, I’ve always enjoyed and smiled along to their music and their stories. Silliness had always abounded with songs like Particle Man and Istanbul, Not Constantinople. It was no surprise that right around the time when we had the twins, TMBG finally released its first kids’ opus No! containing such child-thought-provoking concepts like Where Do They Make Balloons and In The Middle. All in all, I thought the debut CD was fair – some excellent tracks and some music that was a bit too much for my little kids. It wanted to be all things to all kids.
Not so now with Tuesday, February 5th's release of Here Come The 123’s (on CD and DVD). John and John have come into their own as musicians for kids and have created a set of songs, videos and podcasts which position them as a modern day Schoolhouse Rock. The stories, lessons, and variety of musical styles on 123’s harkens back to when we all kept watching ABC on Saturday mornings to hear the funk groove of Verb: That’s What’s Happening and the familiar folk singing of Conjunction Junction.
The songs are smart, the music is great, and the videos are crisp, simple and easily watchable. My kids love it. "S" loves the superheroes and hand motions in High Five - I think the danceable Jamiroquai-like sound is great. Other songs come across like classic TMBG and classic Schoolhouse Rock – simple, sweet and smart – such as Zeroes, Apartment Four, and the very fun Seven Days of the Week (I Never Go To Work).
Perhaps, however, the greatest part of this new release is the brilliant and much appreciated marketing campaign of having weekly Friday Night Family Podcasts hosted by sock puppet versions of John and John (which makes "A" laugh that they are both called John). Each week we’ve been able to preview the new CD as well as start to sing along and love this new music. Many of the above songs have become my girls’ favorites and sitting around the laptop to watch a podcast or two has been much fun. The podcasts are available thru itunes http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=105708952 or at http://disneymusic.disney.go.com/artists/theymightbegiants.html and even on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ca_5BnBB170.
It is required viewing and listening – it’s what kids’ music can be all about. These are songs for everyone with music that adults can enjoy and kids can appreciate, and now, even learn from. Plus, it gives us all a chance to pull out the classic TMBG CDs from our past and share with a new generation who appreciates John and John in either their human or puppet form.
Not so now with Tuesday, February 5th's release of Here Come The 123’s (on CD and DVD). John and John have come into their own as musicians for kids and have created a set of songs, videos and podcasts which position them as a modern day Schoolhouse Rock. The stories, lessons, and variety of musical styles on 123’s harkens back to when we all kept watching ABC on Saturday mornings to hear the funk groove of Verb: That’s What’s Happening and the familiar folk singing of Conjunction Junction.
The songs are smart, the music is great, and the videos are crisp, simple and easily watchable. My kids love it. "S" loves the superheroes and hand motions in High Five - I think the danceable Jamiroquai-like sound is great. Other songs come across like classic TMBG and classic Schoolhouse Rock – simple, sweet and smart – such as Zeroes, Apartment Four, and the very fun Seven Days of the Week (I Never Go To Work).
Perhaps, however, the greatest part of this new release is the brilliant and much appreciated marketing campaign of having weekly Friday Night Family Podcasts hosted by sock puppet versions of John and John (which makes "A" laugh that they are both called John). Each week we’ve been able to preview the new CD as well as start to sing along and love this new music. Many of the above songs have become my girls’ favorites and sitting around the laptop to watch a podcast or two has been much fun. The podcasts are available thru itunes http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=105708952 or at http://disneymusic.disney.go.com/artists/theymightbegiants.html and even on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ca_5BnBB170.
It is required viewing and listening – it’s what kids’ music can be all about. These are songs for everyone with music that adults can enjoy and kids can appreciate, and now, even learn from. Plus, it gives us all a chance to pull out the classic TMBG CDs from our past and share with a new generation who appreciates John and John in either their human or puppet form.
Monday, January 28, 2008
My top albums for 2007
Sorry for the delay - sick kids, work, snow, it all adds up.
I'm still an album guy at heart. Yes, I grew up as the CD came of age and I relish the idea of downloadable singles, but the concept of a great album with a collection of songs that mean something, that should be heard together and were recorded at the same time is what excites me musically. I love the notion of a new release date for an album - it makes Tuesday that much more special.
So, to that end...
The Best albums of 2007:
In Rainbows - Radiohead
Blew me away the moment I downloaded it. One of the best albums I've heard in years. Insightful, cutting, passionate, its everything that all the wannabe bands do today that Radiohead perfected. The choose your own price download gimmick aside, it is a solid album from the opening track to the end and it rekindled my enjoyment of Radiohead. Bodysnatchers quickly became one of my top plays, and from the CD's start with 15 Steps complete with handclaps and eerie children cheering to the satisfying conclusion of Videotape's quiet brooding cresendo of moodiness, this brings the band full circle from its prog-rock beginnings with all its learned along the way. Finally, available now through conventional downloads and in CD - its a must get.
Neon Bible by The Arcade Fire
Until Rainbows came out, this had been my AOTY since I got it in March. Keep The Car Running, which I raved about in the top plays section, has this urgent call to action with a Not Fade Away riff running throughout its driving drum beat. The Arcade Fire is one of the best exports to come out of Canada since I discovered Labatt's Blue in college. At first, I was impressed with this album, but still thought it paled to its predecessor, the debut Funeral. After repeated playing, Neon Bible holds its own and blazes its own path. If Radiohead set the standard in the '90s then The Arcade Fire becomes the band to watch this decade. Sounding like Talking Heads, a bit of Bowie with a bit of Bono in some joyous end of the world festival with hurdy-gurdys, this band is the one to watch. It's title track, along with Black Wave/Bad Vibrations (perhaps an apocolyptic retort to Good Vibrations?) and a remake of their own No Cars Go are some of the standout tracks. Go to http://www.neonbible.com/ to see more of their visual and audio wonder.
Version - Mark Ronson
Thanks to my buddy Scooter in NYC, I have come to be thrilled by this 21st century wall of sound with its shagadelic horns, house beat bass, touch of hip-hop and great reworkings of some excellent songs. Covers of songs by The Smiths (Stop Me), Coldplay (God Put A Smile on Your Face), Radiohead (Just), Kasabian (L.S.F.) and Britney Spears (seriously - a great rap cover of Toxic with O.D.B. himself) to name a few has the same horn section (of Brooklyn's own The Dap Kings) that made Amy Winehouse a household name make this such a fun listen again and again. If you liked the Winehouse, you'll love this. Ronson keeps producing more and more and his imprint has been left on other standout tracks from AIR to Bob Dylan. This album provides the soundtrack for one groovy night.
Not Too Late - Norah Jones
I think the third solo release for Jones got a bit overlooked. It probably doesn't redefine the dinner music standard that her debut perfected, but it does add a bit of bite to her repetoire and adds balance to her music. Not My Friend is delightfully scornful, My Dear Country and Sinkin' Soon provide her own distaste for what happened in New Orleans, Little Room is sweetly sentimental and Thinking About You is classic Norah. It's smart album by someone who toughened up a bit and worth another look at.
In Our Bedroom After the War - Stars
There is a great music scene happening right now north of the border. Bands and artists like the aforementioned Arcade Fire, as well as Broken Social Scene, the very cool Feist, and this pick, Stars are defining a new wave. I first saw Stars at Lollapalooza two years ago and was sucked in. The interplay between lead singers Torquil Campbell and Amy Millan reminded me of the dynamic and tension between Michael Stipe - Natalie Merchant. With the new album, heavy shades of The Smiths exist next to reminders of The Housemartins (along with maybe some Pet Shop Boys) in a deeper and more dramatic voice from Campbell. Dark concepts abound such as the title track and The Night Starts Here, Today Will Be Better, I Swear, and the excellent lead single Take Me To The Riot. A bit kindler and gentler and more pop like than their Arcade Fire neighbors, the cold arctic air must be doing something right to be producing this sort of great music. Also, well worth hearing their live set on NPR's All Songs Considered podcast http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=15298176
Raising Sand - Robert Plant & Alison Kraus
Among the adult-alt-cool albums to come out this year, the one that rightly should be at the top of many lists is the very unusual, but perfect, pairing of rock legend Robert Plant with bluegrass icon Alison Kraus. With T-Bone Burnett at the producing helm, the two of them collaborate on a uniquely perfect soundtrack for what could be an unmade road movie. The songs and their harmonys perfectly coexist in some alternate universe. Please Read The Letter captured my attention right away when I first heard it in the New York Times excellent music pop-cast. http://www.nytimes.com/ref/multimedia/podcasts.html (and to be discussed in a future post on podcasting). Rich Woman starts this project off with a strange creepy groove that runs throughout this roadshow into gorgeous elegies such as Fortune Teller and Stick With Me Baby. I think the cover describes it all - two happy souls singing in the middle of nowhere. It's haunting and it's beautiful.
Live In Dublin - Bruce Springsteen with The Seeger Sessions Band
Bruce had 2 albums which were rather retro in my mind come out in 2007. Magic, was updated 80s Bruce, and Live In Dublin was updated Peter Seeger. I love the Seeger Sessions, and his performances of this album live becomes an irish hurricane of foot stomping, gospel revival, big band, New Orleans sounding music. The opening cut, a reworked Atlantic City, is great fun and when the whole band kicks in, its a menacing tour de force. It's fun, it's serious, it's great revisiting of some classic Bruce seen through a whole new lens, and its the best live Bruce to date.
I'm still an album guy at heart. Yes, I grew up as the CD came of age and I relish the idea of downloadable singles, but the concept of a great album with a collection of songs that mean something, that should be heard together and were recorded at the same time is what excites me musically. I love the notion of a new release date for an album - it makes Tuesday that much more special.
So, to that end...
The Best albums of 2007:
In Rainbows - Radiohead
Blew me away the moment I downloaded it. One of the best albums I've heard in years. Insightful, cutting, passionate, its everything that all the wannabe bands do today that Radiohead perfected. The choose your own price download gimmick aside, it is a solid album from the opening track to the end and it rekindled my enjoyment of Radiohead. Bodysnatchers quickly became one of my top plays, and from the CD's start with 15 Steps complete with handclaps and eerie children cheering to the satisfying conclusion of Videotape's quiet brooding cresendo of moodiness, this brings the band full circle from its prog-rock beginnings with all its learned along the way. Finally, available now through conventional downloads and in CD - its a must get.
Neon Bible by The Arcade Fire
Until Rainbows came out, this had been my AOTY since I got it in March. Keep The Car Running, which I raved about in the top plays section, has this urgent call to action with a Not Fade Away riff running throughout its driving drum beat. The Arcade Fire is one of the best exports to come out of Canada since I discovered Labatt's Blue in college. At first, I was impressed with this album, but still thought it paled to its predecessor, the debut Funeral. After repeated playing, Neon Bible holds its own and blazes its own path. If Radiohead set the standard in the '90s then The Arcade Fire becomes the band to watch this decade. Sounding like Talking Heads, a bit of Bowie with a bit of Bono in some joyous end of the world festival with hurdy-gurdys, this band is the one to watch. It's title track, along with Black Wave/Bad Vibrations (perhaps an apocolyptic retort to Good Vibrations?) and a remake of their own No Cars Go are some of the standout tracks. Go to http://www.neonbible.com/ to see more of their visual and audio wonder.
Version - Mark Ronson
Thanks to my buddy Scooter in NYC, I have come to be thrilled by this 21st century wall of sound with its shagadelic horns, house beat bass, touch of hip-hop and great reworkings of some excellent songs. Covers of songs by The Smiths (Stop Me), Coldplay (God Put A Smile on Your Face), Radiohead (Just), Kasabian (L.S.F.) and Britney Spears (seriously - a great rap cover of Toxic with O.D.B. himself) to name a few has the same horn section (of Brooklyn's own The Dap Kings) that made Amy Winehouse a household name make this such a fun listen again and again. If you liked the Winehouse, you'll love this. Ronson keeps producing more and more and his imprint has been left on other standout tracks from AIR to Bob Dylan. This album provides the soundtrack for one groovy night.
Not Too Late - Norah Jones
I think the third solo release for Jones got a bit overlooked. It probably doesn't redefine the dinner music standard that her debut perfected, but it does add a bit of bite to her repetoire and adds balance to her music. Not My Friend is delightfully scornful, My Dear Country and Sinkin' Soon provide her own distaste for what happened in New Orleans, Little Room is sweetly sentimental and Thinking About You is classic Norah. It's smart album by someone who toughened up a bit and worth another look at.
In Our Bedroom After the War - Stars
There is a great music scene happening right now north of the border. Bands and artists like the aforementioned Arcade Fire, as well as Broken Social Scene, the very cool Feist, and this pick, Stars are defining a new wave. I first saw Stars at Lollapalooza two years ago and was sucked in. The interplay between lead singers Torquil Campbell and Amy Millan reminded me of the dynamic and tension between Michael Stipe - Natalie Merchant. With the new album, heavy shades of The Smiths exist next to reminders of The Housemartins (along with maybe some Pet Shop Boys) in a deeper and more dramatic voice from Campbell. Dark concepts abound such as the title track and The Night Starts Here, Today Will Be Better, I Swear, and the excellent lead single Take Me To The Riot. A bit kindler and gentler and more pop like than their Arcade Fire neighbors, the cold arctic air must be doing something right to be producing this sort of great music. Also, well worth hearing their live set on NPR's All Songs Considered podcast http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=15298176
Raising Sand - Robert Plant & Alison Kraus
Among the adult-alt-cool albums to come out this year, the one that rightly should be at the top of many lists is the very unusual, but perfect, pairing of rock legend Robert Plant with bluegrass icon Alison Kraus. With T-Bone Burnett at the producing helm, the two of them collaborate on a uniquely perfect soundtrack for what could be an unmade road movie. The songs and their harmonys perfectly coexist in some alternate universe. Please Read The Letter captured my attention right away when I first heard it in the New York Times excellent music pop-cast. http://www.nytimes.com/ref/multimedia/podcasts.html (and to be discussed in a future post on podcasting). Rich Woman starts this project off with a strange creepy groove that runs throughout this roadshow into gorgeous elegies such as Fortune Teller and Stick With Me Baby. I think the cover describes it all - two happy souls singing in the middle of nowhere. It's haunting and it's beautiful.
Live In Dublin - Bruce Springsteen with The Seeger Sessions Band
Bruce had 2 albums which were rather retro in my mind come out in 2007. Magic, was updated 80s Bruce, and Live In Dublin was updated Peter Seeger. I love the Seeger Sessions, and his performances of this album live becomes an irish hurricane of foot stomping, gospel revival, big band, New Orleans sounding music. The opening cut, a reworked Atlantic City, is great fun and when the whole band kicks in, its a menacing tour de force. It's fun, it's serious, it's great revisiting of some classic Bruce seen through a whole new lens, and its the best live Bruce to date.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
What would have been on Norm's ipod
I learned much from my father, and I would Dad give credit for having such a passion for music and such a large collection of music. Rifling through his huge collection of vinyl as a kid showed me the great variety which exists out there. Dad had his favorites, and early on, I remember Dad putting a stack of Paul Simon & Art Garfunkel records on his Gerrard turntable and listening to music as he got a party ready. Dad grew up with Art and Paul and I spent a lot of time enjoying and appreciating their whole canon of work.
As I grew older, I began to share the music with Dad. Some of it was not for him, but when he asked me for a copy of it, I knew it resonated. Dad was always a good sport about listening to the stuff he didn't love - he even took my brother to see Def Leppard when my brother was 12.
I lost my father a year ago today, and the world has not been quite the same since. Trying to find my own balance and path without him has been quite interesting, to say the least. But seeing a Porsche and hearing certain songs will continue to draw me back to him.
If my father had an ipod - this is what I would envision his playlist to have been like. Enjoy the songs, thanks for listening, and I miss you too Dad.
Quarter To Three - Gary U.S. Bonds. I didn't even know that Dad listened to Gary U.S. Bonds until after his funeral. His childhood friends came up to me and we were all talking music and Dad. Although, I mentioned Simon & Garfunkel, they said that what Dad would put on while he lived in Binghamton was this song. He's play it loud, he'd play it over and over again and they'll all dance to it. I downloaded it that night and I'm glad I did. It's a great slice of early rock / soul, and I learned a bit more about a man I thought I knew everything about. This one is for you, The Boys from Binghamton.
Kodachrome
Still Crazy After All These Years
One Man's Ceiling Is Another Man's Floor
50 Ways To Leave Your Lover
- Paul Simon
Breakaway
Scissors Cut
99 Miles To L.A.
(What A Wonderful) World
- Art Garfunkel
My Little Town
- Simon & Garfunkel
The opening low notes on the piano from Kodachrome evoke those memories of my Dad going around the house getting ready for his friends to come over. Classic '70s Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel is like comfort food for my musical soul. The stack of these LPs on the turntable and the songs from Still Crazy After All These Years, There Goes Rhyimin' Simon, Breakaway, Watermark and Scissors Cut were the soundtrack to any given Saturday in my home growing up. I loved the autographed albums from Art to my Dad. Art's album covers always had this goofy sense of humor as well - blackened teeth in his smile on the back cover of Fate For Breakfast or a bandaid on his neck in Scissors Cut. My Little Town is of course my favorite of the group, its Simon AND Garfunkel together again for one last song, and in what I always thought was a cool move, was having the song appear on both of their solo LPs in the '70s. It's funny that he liked his Simon separate from his Garfunkel. Sure, we had their duo albums from '60s, but it was their solo work that stands out as being my Dad's favorite. All worth downloading tonight and giving it a re-listen if you don't already know these songs.
Hotel California
Desperado
- The Eagles
I never loved The Eagles. Too California, too laid back; but after a visit to my house once, Dad wanted some new music and had heard the Eagles on the radio, so I gave him my Eagles CDs. He would always tell me just how much he really likes Hotel California and Desperado and quite often those CDs were the ones in his changer when I'd come to visit.
Girl from Ipanema - Astrid Gilberto
Sem Contencao - Bebel Gilberto
Somewhere along the way in these last 10 years, Dad heard me listening to classic Brazilian Bossa Nova at home or in the car. He asked me to make a copy for him. To his own amazement, he loved it all. It became his new background music - and he'd tell me how funny it was that the cleaning woman liked the music as well. After hearing how much he liked Astrid, I decided it was time to update his Brazilian to this century and copied Tanto Tempo by Bebel Gilberto for him. Tanto Tempo is undeniably one of my all time favorite albums. It is a lush landscape of brazilian beats off set by a great modern chill out beat and is likely the song you hear in the background of most neuvo latino restaurants. It's not to be missed.
My Favorite Things - John Coltrane
Pretty quickly in the early stages of dating my wife, one "our" songs became John Coltrane's My Favorite Things. If you don't know it, its essential for your jazz collection. My father had always been into jazz, but listened to it far less than the aforementioned music in my presence. When he and Mom sold the house and downsized to a larger home in one of those communities where they don't let the seniors escape, I found his copy of My Favorite Things and quickly hung the album as artwork in my office. And then made him a copy of the more current CD so he can continue to listen to it.
Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans - Wynton Marsalis
There is lots of jazz which my father enjoyed and passed along to me: Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, and Tommy Dorsey to name a few. But years ago, when I lived in NYC, Dad and I took in a show at the Village Vanguard and sat up front and saw Wynton perform. I'd never seen jazz live with my Dad before, but we had such a great time that night, and I learned to appreciate jazz, Wynton, and my father on an entirely different level.
Shepard Moons - Enya
Finally, there is Enya's debut album, which my Dad found to be so serene and peaceful. I'm not sure where he first heard it and who heard it first. I think he liked the worldly quality of it, the lushness of the arrangements and most of all, its peacefulness. I didn't realize that the day Dad died, would in fact be that day. We had numerous close calls in the months leading up to his end due to cancer. If I really knew that moment was going to be it (and no one ever really does), I would have brought this for him to listen to. When I first got my ipod, he was back in the hospital and I let him experience it. He was amazed at home much music could fit on such a small device (and he was a techie engineer no less). As he fell asleep, smiling, listening to it that day, I couldn't help but think in his final moments that he would have enjoyed the musical accompaniment. However, I am pretty sure he was most comforted by having the voices of his loved ones all around him, and that's what matters most anyway.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
What my ipod liked in 2007
2007 came to a close, and like everyone else, I feel the obligatory need to share my top listens of the year. I decided the best way to determine what made the top of the list, was to let my ipod tell me - what songs were from 2007 and most played? Admitedly, the songs which were uploaded to the ipod earlier in the year got more play than more recent additions.
Here's who made the cut.
Most played song: Ruby by Kaiser Chiefs (from Yours Truly, Angry Mob). Ruby is a great song and it surprised me, and pleased me, that it made the top of the list. Kaiser Chiefs is the latest in a hot string of the newest wave out of England. Ruby has a sharp guitar riff with some some la-la's in the beginning followed by a deep crooning Morrissey-like voice that reminds me more of The Smiths than much of his own recent work, especially with lyrics like "Due to lack of interest, tomorrow is cancelled." Then that chorus of "Ruby ruby ruby ruby" kicks in and it's so much fun. Right behind Ruby, ironically, is Dashboard by Modest Mouse (from We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank) with Johnny Marr, formerly of The Smiths on guitar. Maybe I just miss The Smiths?
Rounding out the top plays for 2007:
Weapon Of Choice - Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (Baby 81). Catchy, fun, and I played it all summer.
Radio Nowhere - Bruce Springsteen (Magic). Certainly not Bruce's best, but a great throwback to some '80s Jersey rock (did I mention that I am from exit 9?)
Running Away - Polyphonic Spree (The Fragile Army). See post below, I love it, my kids love it.
Keep The Car Running - Arcade Fire (Neon Bible). In the next post, I'll tell you why I think this is one of my two favorite albums of the year, and the best band I've heard in years. This song was top of my play list for so long and proved that The Arcade Fire still had the ability to awe and inspire with their sophomore release.
Stop Me - Mark Ronson featuring Daniel Merriweather (Version). With so much hype about Amy Winehouse, the overlooked hero was her album's producer (her Phil Spector if you will) English DJ and producer Mark Ronson. This cover (of a Smiths song no less) made my top 10 in downloads and has the same groove and the same horn section (Brooklyn's own The Dap Kings) that made Amy Winehouse a household name. If you liked the Winehouse, you'll love this.
Bodysnatchers - Radiohead (In Rainbows). Simply stunning. See the albums of the year post.
Young Folks - Peter Bjorn & John (Writer's Block)
(F)lannigan's Ball - Dropkick Murphys (The Meanest of Times)
Take Me to the Riot - Stars (In Our Bedroom After the War)
Please Read The Letter - Robert Plant & Alison Kraus (Raising Sand)
Atlantic City - Bruce Springsteen with The Seeger Sessions Band (Live In Dublin)
Toxic - Shawn Lee's Ping Pong Orchestra (Hits The Hits)
Next posts - my favorite albums from 2007 with some surprises, some overlooked gems, and some really great albums; my favorite tracks and albums for the whole family.
Here's who made the cut.
Most played song: Ruby by Kaiser Chiefs (from Yours Truly, Angry Mob). Ruby is a great song and it surprised me, and pleased me, that it made the top of the list. Kaiser Chiefs is the latest in a hot string of the newest wave out of England. Ruby has a sharp guitar riff with some some la-la's in the beginning followed by a deep crooning Morrissey-like voice that reminds me more of The Smiths than much of his own recent work, especially with lyrics like "Due to lack of interest, tomorrow is cancelled." Then that chorus of "Ruby ruby ruby ruby" kicks in and it's so much fun. Right behind Ruby, ironically, is Dashboard by Modest Mouse (from We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank) with Johnny Marr, formerly of The Smiths on guitar. Maybe I just miss The Smiths?
Rounding out the top plays for 2007:
Weapon Of Choice - Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (Baby 81). Catchy, fun, and I played it all summer.
Radio Nowhere - Bruce Springsteen (Magic). Certainly not Bruce's best, but a great throwback to some '80s Jersey rock (did I mention that I am from exit 9?)
Running Away - Polyphonic Spree (The Fragile Army). See post below, I love it, my kids love it.
Keep The Car Running - Arcade Fire (Neon Bible). In the next post, I'll tell you why I think this is one of my two favorite albums of the year, and the best band I've heard in years. This song was top of my play list for so long and proved that The Arcade Fire still had the ability to awe and inspire with their sophomore release.
Stop Me - Mark Ronson featuring Daniel Merriweather (Version). With so much hype about Amy Winehouse, the overlooked hero was her album's producer (her Phil Spector if you will) English DJ and producer Mark Ronson. This cover (of a Smiths song no less) made my top 10 in downloads and has the same groove and the same horn section (Brooklyn's own The Dap Kings) that made Amy Winehouse a household name. If you liked the Winehouse, you'll love this.
Bodysnatchers - Radiohead (In Rainbows). Simply stunning. See the albums of the year post.
Young Folks - Peter Bjorn & John (Writer's Block)
(F)lannigan's Ball - Dropkick Murphys (The Meanest of Times)
Take Me to the Riot - Stars (In Our Bedroom After the War)
Please Read The Letter - Robert Plant & Alison Kraus (Raising Sand)
Atlantic City - Bruce Springsteen with The Seeger Sessions Band (Live In Dublin)
Toxic - Shawn Lee's Ping Pong Orchestra (Hits The Hits)
Next posts - my favorite albums from 2007 with some surprises, some overlooked gems, and some really great albums; my favorite tracks and albums for the whole family.
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