The Thriller is 50….
August 29, 2008 at 9:41 am | In 70's teen idols, 80's music, music | Leave a CommentThere are so many venues out there to find out the “scoop” about the latest scandal concerning our Hollywood actor/actress/musician/b lister. None of that drew my attention. Sure there are the occasional things that transcend gossip, such as the OJ affair and such. For the most part I find gossip mongers distasteful at best, and bottom feeders at worse.
Which leads to Michael Jackson. Can you argue that he is a walking freak show? Yep. Can you argue that much of what has happened to him he has brought upon himself? Yes. At the same time, I feel sadness, that no matter how high he climbed and how low he is now, that this is a man who has always been a prisoner. A prisoner of his freaked out family, a prisoner of his popularity, a prisoner of the press.
From a musical standpoint, one could argue that the trio of albums Off the wall/Thriller/Bad transformed popular music in a way that very few have ever done. He had two peers during that time period, Prince and Madonna. Both has aged gracefully, and if not defining the zeitgeist anymore, are still producing exciting music. MJ has stopped becoming relevant years ago, which is sad to see.
Well….happy 50th birthday Michael and here’s to hoping that you find that peace that you are obviously looking for.
Makin the blues sound SO good….
August 27, 2008 at 7:47 am | In just the blues baby, music | Leave a CommentI always admired Jimi Hendrix, but never really got into him as much as some did. In fact for my taste there are only a handful of guitar players who can take off on a jam and leave you wanting for more. Stevie Ray Vaughn was one of those axemen. To play with such abandon, but yet have such clean lines just amazed me. Today is the 18th anniversary of SRV’s death in a helicopter crash. I would get chills listening to him and Double Trouble in concert. I still do….
Many thanks….
August 25, 2008 at 8:22 pm | In homeboy musings, music | 1 CommentJust a short blurb here.
I started this blog last month…July 22 to be exact after being encouraged for a couple of years to start one. After a couple of starts that went nowhere…I desided to write about my passion: music. I expected to get a hits here or there, but wanted this to just be an outlet for what I thought. In the last month we have had over 500 hits, and although there are those who probably get that in a day…but for me and my humble offerings it’s amazing. Just wanted to take a minute and say thank you for popping in. I have enjoyed your comments, and for your letters. Thanks again….
Goin to Church with Mike Farris Part 2
August 25, 2008 at 11:54 am | In 2000 and beyond, going to church...., music, people that you HAVE to hear, soul music | 1 Comment
In a blog a few days ago, I mentioned that Mike Farris was playing at 3rd and Lindsley on this past Sunday that that we were going. Having heard the CD, “Salvation in Lights” and seeing several videos on Youtube, I was excited about going. To put it mildly, there was no way that either prepared me for what was going to happen.
The event was part concert, part revival meeting, and a celebration of life. A life that was thought to be wasted, and found to be everything and more. A life that celebrated the joy of living and the reason for that life. It was as close to a religious experience that I’ve ever experienced on the stage before.
It’s odd in a way, because if I were to tell you that the album was half covers from New Orleans turn of the century revival music and the originals were in the same vein, am not sure how many other than purists of the genre would be interested. It will be interesting to see where he goes and what he does as a follow-up. But what lifts the CD up and makes the concert experience so amazing is that the music is infused with an excitement of a person who understands what redemption, grace, and mercy is all about. I invite you to go to his website and read his story and you have a better understanding of what I mean.
The band is made up of 11 members (one of the backup singers was gone home to Houston to celebrate her birthday). A horn section made up of trombone, trumpet, and sax. Keys, drums, bass, lead guitar, and a group of backup singers that would literally blow the roof off by themselves if Mike wasn’t doing a good job of that already.
I applaud him for spreading his music in churches and in clubs as well. One does not have to be a Christian to enjoy this stuff, its focus is on things of the heavenly realm. But for all who were there last night, it was brought to the level of the masses, as we watched a man and his band express the sheer joy of living and of life, and how spiritually can be a powerful force in it.
He will be playing in Nashville at least once in September and then on a regular Sunday night gig at the Station Inn in Oct/Nov. If you have NOT seen him, please do yourself a favor and check it out.
The pop/rock report August 23/24 2008
August 24, 2008 at 2:51 pm | In 2000 and beyond, Sunday Feature, music | Leave a CommentWell kids, it’s that time again. A few takes on the pop/rock charts this week.The first thing to notice was that there are 6 country songs by 5 different artists (two by Taylor Swift, you can add one if you count Kid Rock…I’d prefer not to)
Jazmine Sullivan–Need U Bad: Jazmine has been working behind the scenes for years (and still just 20). With a little help from Missy Elliott, she has a winner of a debut single. She mixes a reggae vibe with her R&B which sets it apart from the pack. She reminds one a bit vocally of Lauren Hill, hopefully she will create more music that is this creative.
Miley Cyrus–7 Things: Thankfully my children are older and I have already gone through that “omygod they are the BEST” phase (Thanks New Kids on the Block and Hanson) so I’ve not had to endure the whole Hannah Montana ordeal. So I come to this with fresh ears having never heard ANY songs from Miley/Hannah. Am not really for sure what to say since all of the girls under the age of 13 will make this another gold record for her. And since I’ve not been 13 for a LONG time, I can’t relate at all to this. Is it catchy? Yep, but catchy doesn’t always mean good. Although after listening a few times (do NOT make me watch the video more than once), I have no doubt that she will have a great career during the rest of her teen years, make tons of money singing about the angst of her 20’s, and then when people stop listening, she will make a comeback in country music.
Demi Lovato–Get Back: Just to prove that even music snobs can be hypocritical, I have to admit this is kinda cool (in a Disney way of course). I think it’s the crunchy guitar licks that get me going like a bowl of frosted flakes in the morning. Just one question sticks in my mind however. Does it bother anyone that many rappers are condemned for influencing young girls to be objects of desire by men, while Disney keeps churning out product that influences young girls to be mindless objects of desire by Madison Avenue? I’m just sayin….
The Flobots–Handlebars: Unless your a folk singer, or a rapper who is into social change, music with a message usually doesn’t float my boat. Mainly because many fall into the trap of sounding the alarm SO much, they become shrill. I had never heard of The Flobots (out of Denver) before, but am very impressed with their skills. Music that is not your normal top 40 fare, but also which can’t get out of your head (like it or not). To top this off, a political message that just goes to show them as artists who not only give a damm, but can explain musicially where they stand. Like their politics or not…I find that refreshing and inspring. (and for once…a video that is as powerful as the song)
David Archuleta–Crush: Two years ago I spent an entire season watching American Idol (season 6, 9, 12??….I honestly can’t remember) and remembering how it seemed that the person who won it (Jordan Sparks) wasn’t the most talented. That soured me on it a bit, so paid little attention to it this year. I have no idea where Mr. Archuleta ended up and except for family stuff behind the scenes and seeing the video of Imagine (which he knocked out of the park by the way…) I don’t have a strong opinion of the pro/cons between him and Mr. Cook. Saying that however, this is a strong debut in my opinion. The music playing to the strengths of his tenor, and not being SO teen driven, that it allows a chance for him to grow and develop. Will be very interested to hear more. Now if we can only get Archuleta’s dad, the Lohans, and Lynne Spears on a slow boat to China.
The Lost Lennon…..
August 22, 2008 at 9:22 am | In 2000 and beyond, 80's music, The Beatles, looking for a second listen, music, songwriters corner | 2 Comments
The Beatles have been the greatest influence on my life, especially from a musical standpoint. My mother bought me a copy of “I Wanna Hold Your Hand”, and was hooked. Never figured out where she got it, or why she gave it to me (it certainly wasn’t because she like them), but was a fan from then on. However, most of my recollection occurred after their break up. Looking back, I suppose I was a Paul fan, but have had mixed feelings about that. I always thought that Paul was the most melodic, however, has always had to deal with the triteness of his lyrical content during his Wings period. At the same time, John was wildly inconsistent with his output in his solo years, with his best outshining the other three, but there just wasn’t enough of it. His death in 1980 was a terrible thing, and have wondered many times since, what we had lost with not only the death of a musical icon, but what could have been with an older and wiser John around.
I remember getting chills the first time on hearing “Valotte” in 1984 Julian’s voice was so similar to his dad’s, and can remember thinking at the time, “How is He going to deal with being John’s son?”. Over 20 years later, I still wonder that. Much of what I’ve read has led me to believe that he has spent much of his life dealing with having a dad who everyone in the world seemed to know, but was never given the chance to know personally.
After his solo album in, Julian spent a couple of albums drifting, and in due course fell out with record buyers. The good news is that the last couple of CD’s, “1991’s “Help Yourself”, and 1998’s “Photograph Smile”, has shown a real maturity in his writing and one song in particular, “Saltwater” (which is the video you see above) showing not only brilliance, but a concern for the environment which he has expanded on in his personal dealings over the years.
With a new CD coming out soon, (“Conscious”), his work in film (his documentary, “WhaleDreamers” was shown at Cannes in 2007), and other business ventures, it seems as if maybe the world will be ready for Julian again. He understands that there will always be comparisons to his famous father; however, with maturity that comes with age, it seems as if he has come to grips with it. And hopefully, he will have the chance to share his music and his love for environmental issues to effect on his generation as well.
The video below is an interview with Julian from 1999. But it shows a man who has come to grips with his past. Enjoy….
Goin’ to church with Mike Farris……
August 20, 2008 at 9:36 am | In 2000 and beyond, going to church...., music, people that you HAVE to hear | Leave a Comment
Am not sure how I came across Mike Farris (probably Rhapsody), but am happy that I have. Instead of going through his past, it’s probably easier and better for you to read about his story from his website. http://mikefarrismusic.net/bio.php.
He is going to be in Nashville Sunday and am planning to be there to see him. His soulfulness and passion that he puts into his stage shows only comes from a man who is living through the process of redemption that he sings about. A truly inspiring story and truly inspirational music.
The feeling that you can’t get this song out of your head….
August 19, 2008 at 8:38 am | In 2000 and beyond, music, power pop...thank god | Leave a Comment
Have you ever heard a song before and just cannot get the tune out of your head?
I do a lot of surfing for music. Used to frequent myspace a lot for it, but have found that Rhaposdy is even better. To just choose a genre and listen to what is out there is a great feeling, and a wonderful substitution for music on the radio.
If it’s not been mentioned before, power pop is one of my favorite types of music. So when I came across this song, it got lodged somewhere and won’t leave. So instead of fighting it, I’m going to share it with all of you.
The Feeling are five guys from the UK: Dan Sells (Lead vocals, electric guitar), Richard Jones (Bass, background vox.), Kevin Jeremiah (guitars/back. vox.), Ciaran Jeremiah (Keyboards, back. vox.), Paul Stewart (drums). They have two albums out, Twelve Steps and Home (2005), and Join With Us (2008).
Twelve Steps and Home reached the US charts, but there has been no actions with singles, which is a real shame as their very catchy pop would be welcome on the radio. They have had much better time of it in their homeland with both CD’s making the top five and several singles in the top 10.
Anyways, the video is from the single “I love it when you call”, and a very good example of their music. The album reminds me of a cross between 10cc and Supertramp, which if you like either one of those groups, or power pop in general, check them out….
August 2008 country top 40; like it or not….
August 17, 2008 at 1:31 pm | In Sunday Feature, country top 40, music, top 40 country | Leave a CommentA couple of weeks ago, I did a Saturday blog which looked at five of the top country songs of that week. It turned out being one of my more popular posting, so I thought to expand on it a bit and look at the charts again, and give my opinions. If there is a video that I think you’d like to see, it will be added as well.
Ashton Shepard: Sounds So Good–This is the second single off her debut CD of the same name. There is a more than a passing resemblance to the Dixie Chicks in general and Natalie Maines in particular. As impressive to me is that fact that she wrote this song as well as much of the material. In Nashville, that’s always a plus. Good stuff.
Chris Young: Voices–Chris is the 2006 winner of the TV contest/show, “Nashville Star”. Never watched the show before, nor was I familiar with Chris. This single here is new enough that I was not able to grab a copy of the song for review, but came across this video of him doing it live, and was impressed. This is his third single and is his first top 40 song. I am a sucker for a song with good keys even if the vocals are not all that distinctive.
Jewel: I Do–Pardon me for being more than a bit cynical about Jewell’s conversion to country music. However, I can remember during the period from the mid 70’s to early 80’s that more then a few country artists crossed over to pop with various degrees of success. It’s not a bad thing, and probably speaks more of the state of what country is today, then it does of the singer herself. Bottom line, if you liked Jewell before, then you will really like this, if you don’t I am doubtful this was make a lot of converts.
Randy Houser: Anything Goes–Randy is probably known more for writing, “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” for Trace Adkins. This is his first single and has hit the top 40. A pleasing debut.
Pat Green: Let Me–Pat Green’s albums over the last seven years have sold well, but with the exception of the excellent, “Wave On Wave” and 2006’s “Feels Like it Should”, he has always had difficulty cracking the top 20. Am not sure this will be any different. Pleasant, but nothing to write home about.
Eli Young Band: When it rains–OK….don’t’ know a lot about this band, but their press release compares them to The Jayhawks, which an apt description at least about this song. They are opening for the Dave Matthews Band which also seems like a good fit. This is a great song, and am looking forward to checking out their CD as soon as I can get a copy.
Adam Gregory: Crazy Days–Adam has been releasing CD’s since 2000 at the age of 15 in his native Canada. He has three releases there and several top 10 singles. This is his first single here in the states, with an album forthcoming. The video is a good one as well. Am looking forward to hear more from this guy.
Lady Antebellum: Looking for a good time–I really, really want to like this song, but sonically it reminds me of two groups on the charts now, Little Big Town and Sugarland. And at this point, in that comparison, they fall a bit short. That is not totally fair as both of these other groups have been playing long enough to have shaped distinctive sounds. And maybe that’s it. They are great to look at, and pleasant to hear, but there isn’t anything (at least on this song) to separate them from the pack. However, there is more then enough here to convince me that there is the potential of being a lot more then just nice videos and pleasing background music.
Jo Dee Messina: I’m Done–Jo Dee has kept a fairly low profile since Delicious Surprise. This is the second single off of what will be the CD, “Unmistakable”. Of the modern era female country singers, all who are now following in the Miranda Lambert, Gretchen Wilson, school of tough chicks have to pay homage to Jo Dee Messina. Her best material has mixed a sense of feminine vulnerability with a tough no nonsense exterior. Am not sure this is up to her earlier stuff, but it’s great to hear her sassy self back on the charts.
Jamey Johnson: In Color–Am not a huge fan of this type of singer/songwriter, but this is pretty good stuff. His story of coming to Nashville after years in the military, starting to make inroads the old fashioned way (playing in clubs and networking) then going through a career downturn which included a divorce and now restarting it over again makes me want to root for him.
I didn’t even know there was a Phoenix in France….
August 16, 2008 at 1:39 pm | In 2000 and beyond, music | Leave a Comment
I ran across this song over the internet, and found it kinda catchy in a quirky way.
Phoenix consists of Thomas (pronounced Toh-mah) Mars (vocals), Deck D’Arcy (bass), Laurent Brancowitz (guitar) and Christian Mazzalai (guitar). They formed in 1991 as a trio and added Brancowitz in 95 and offically named themselves Phoenix in 1997.
“United” was the first release in 2000. The single, “Too Young” was used in the 2001 movie, “Shallow Hal”, and again in 2003’s, “Lost in Translation”. Following in 2004 was “Alphabetical”, then “Live! Thirty Days Ago” in 2005.
The song “Long Distance Call” was the first single from the 2006 CD, “It’s Never Been Like that”.
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