That lightning bolt was mine

Like A Sleep Twitch

2009-12-05T17:02:00.005-05:00

So much has changed in this past year. I have been neglecting this blog more and more because I started graduate school and just haven't had the time to go to gigs or really even think about music very much. I won't be around very much, but you will continue to get the occasional post from me. Apologies.

But honestly, I think the bigger issue this year is that I just haven't been compelled to write and I'm just not excited about music as I used to be. I turn on the radio (internet radio included) and I don't hear anything that makes my ears perk up and think "wow, that's really good." There's no blood in that emotional vein, so it feels.

Here's what I will admit to however-- big thumbs up to Lady Gaga and The Editors.

"Lady Gaga? The Editors? That's the best you can come up with?"

"I knows what I likes. And I'm definitely feeling it."

Firstly, the video to Papparazzi is a little freaky, a little creepy. And LG's ambivalence about bottoms with tops is intriguing. (Although, what would she say about jumpsuits? As it is neither here nor there?) If you've ever seen her acoustic performances, the girl's gotta voice. There's a great version featured below. Second only to the Pirate meets Captain & Tenille inspired ensemble, are props of the year-- the teacup, and the umbrella.

I heard Pappillon the other day, and I felt a current go through my little heart. Yeah, and it's not the most complex song in the world, but fuck, I love this song. Pappillon is French for butterfly, and it's also a dog breed. (Cute little fellas, might I add.) Its use as a metaphor is a little perplexing, but the video makes me want to run with the bulls.

Until next time....

The Editors- Pappillon (buy In This Light and On This Evening)

Acts of Love

2009-05-05T13:41:00.010-04:00

I haven't been to a show in so long... it's pretty sad. So I was so glad to break the dry spell seeing Gliss last night at Mercury Lounge. They have been my new fave band for a while now. I'm kind of a fan-geek when it comes to this band so I'm pretty sure it was dorky to gush about how much I love them to their bassist/drummer Victoria, but hey, what can you do.

In any case, it was sweet to see them sporting some new guitars, and playing songs off their new album, Devotion Implosion. Even after a minor snafu with broken guitar string, they rocked the house. 29 Acts of Love, Morning Light, and The Patrol are my favorite tracks.

Shows at Union Hall, and Pianos to follow. I probably won't be able to make it but this is definitely a band you should see live if given the chance.

Gliss- 29 Acts of Love
(Buy Devotion Implosion!)

Late Night , Goodbyes

2009-02-28T03:27:00.011-05:00

I've watched Late Night with Conan O'Brien since I was a wee tween. Crude geeky adolescent humor? What's not to love? So I was quite sad to hear that Conan will be leaving New York for the West Coast. My biggest regret was not hauling ass over to Rockefeller Center for a live tapping. Lord knows I had the time to do it. Sadness.

I cried.

And then a couple of days later I went to the NBC Store and bought myself a replica of that mug sitting on his desk right there. Most expensive mug ever. Sab came with, gave hugs, and then we ate chocolate covered gummy bears. Feeling a bit better now.

We will miss you Conan.

Never Just A Dream

2009-02-27T16:52:00.000-05:00

It was over 50 degrees in New York today! Also kind of scary since I swore I saw some snow flurries yesterday. (Damn you global warming.) Anyway, I digress. Emma Lee's voice has an old school quality to it, that I am ever so fond of these days. Close your eyes, and envision a smoky jazz bar, a whiskey, and a lone spotlight. Yeah, you know you're there.

Check out her myspace for more songs. I also highly recommend "Isn't it Obvious." So great!

Emma Lee- Never Just A Dream
(visit her myspace, and website)

Mouth Full of Attitude

2009-01-27T12:44:00.002-05:00

Surprise, surprise… !

Apologies for neglecting this blog. I have a lot of projects and applications that I have been working on and should be working on, but of course right now I can’t pass up an opportunity to procrastinate. Music-wise, 2008 was a bit of a yawner. Only a couple of albums reached heavy rotation on my iPod, namely The Kills and Santogold. Crossing fingers 2009 will be a better year.

Currently I am obsessed with a song by Ladyhawke. I don’t know what it is about 80s music throwbacks that I love so much. I surmise I was a few years shy of being old enough to wear lace gloves and feathered hair when the first opportunity arrived, and now Ladyhawke is granting second chances.

I’m not one to hit the dance floor, but if “Magic” is playing, it’s just not possible to stand still.

Ladyhawke- Magic
(Buy the album)

Grammy Nods 2009

2008-12-04T13:30:00.003-05:00

For those who care,

Album of the Year
Coldplay, Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends
Lil Wayne, Tha Carter III
Ne-Yo, Year of the Gentleman
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, Raising Sand
Radiohead, In Rainbows

Best New Artist
Adele
Duffy
Jonas Brothers
Lady Antebellum
Jazmine Sullivan

Record of the Year
Adele, "Chasing Pavements"
Coldplay, "Viva la Vida"
Leona Lewis, "Bleeding Love"
M.I.A., "Paper Planes"
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, "Please Read the Letter"

Song of the Year
Estelle (featuring Kanye West), "American Boy"
Adele, "Chasing Pavements"
Jason Mraz, "I'm Yours"
Sara Bareilles, "Love Song"
Coldplay, "Viva la Vida"

Full list here

Fierce? Not Quite

2008-11-22T00:53:00.006-05:00

EW gave Beyoncé's new album a very generous review, but kind of undeserving, IMHO. In fact, it seems like every major news outlet doesn't want to say Beyoncé fell short this time. I wondered if I was the only one who didn't think Sasha Fierce was as fierce as she seemed, though it turns out the average Amazon music buyer agrees with me on this one (Is the Deluxe version where it's at???). After that super If I Were A Boy mv, I expected more out of the rest of the album, but I was disappointed save for a few gems like Halo, Ave Maria, and Sweet Dreams (I love this song. It was the saving grace after the previous track, "Diva," which frankly sounded like it was sung over Chipmunks on crack. What happened, B?)

I love her, but this isn't for me. I'm gonna go back to listening to B'Day. Wake me when the next one comes out.

If She Were A Boy

2008-11-19T03:11:00.004-05:00

Sometimes songs don't click for me until I see the video. I was pretty meh about Beyonce's If I were A Boy, but then I saw the mv and it totally clicked-- the single tear, and the running liner. You can watch it here.

But my favorite Beyonce song as of late is Upgrade U. I especially loved her lip-syncing over Jay-Z's part. Kinda wonder what sort of direction she got during filming.

"Okay Sasha Fierce, give me a Jay-Z snarl... grrr..."

If she were a boy, she'd still look pretty good.

#44 is a Magical Number.

2008-11-05T13:30:00.009-05:00

No lie, I was a sobbing, puffy mess last night when Barack Obama gave his speech as the President-elect. Pinch me, it really happened! What astounds me is how his campaign mobilized so many Americans to believe in the power that we have as voters, and as citizens. You just have to give a damn. The votes of millions of Americans propelled him to the presidency, and although I know what a tough job he has a head of him, I'm not cynical about whether or not he can get it done.

Stevie Wonder- Signed, Sealed, Delivered
(Greatest Hits!)

Might I add, Senator McCain also gave an incredibly gracious concession speech last night as well. Except for the people ruining the vibe with the classless and unnecessary taunts, which he quickly shot down. That was truly maverick-y. They could learn a lot from Elisabeth Hasselbeck who uncharacteristically supportive of Obama this morning on The View. That was a shocker!

But hey, today anything is possible.

Voterade 2008

2008-11-04T21:04:00.004-05:00

I voted!!! Did you?

Just got back from the NBC Election Plaza over in Rockafeller Center. The place is bustling with nail-biting drama right now. Some awesome guy was handing out election mugs (red and blue) and being New Yorkers of course, we all wanted the blue ones. "Folks, don't grab ! Red or blue, I promise you tomorrow they can all hold coffee!"

New York is great, but wouldn't it be awesome to be in Chicago's Grant Park right now for the Obama love-in? I cross my fingers for tomorrow.

Nicole Atkins has got you covered.

2008-10-28T19:56:00.003-04:00

I totally forgot to put up these photos from All Points West. I mean, the whole event was kind of meh, but Nicole Atkins really rocked the joint I think. Who knew she was going to ham (and egg) it up too.

She’s got a new EP out, aptly named, “Nicole Atkins’ Digs Other People’s Songs,” including covers of Mama Cass, Nada Surf, and The Church.

Available via digital download (Amazon or iTunes)

Nicole Atkins- Under The Milky Way (The Church cover)

PS- Bowery Ballroom with Salt & Samovar and The Nouvellas 11/14! Have you got your tickets yet?

Political Swagger

2008-10-25T09:49:00.003-04:00

I was on the bus last week, and an 8 year old knew the voting age, presidential term limits, and Hilary Clinton sound bytes by heart. It was adorb. I love how this current election has ignited an interest in politics for kids today.

No matter who you support, it's important to vote. You can vote however you like.

T.I would be proud. And CNN coverage too! Go Ron Clark Academy!

(Thanks Shabs!)

Runway!

2008-10-16T13:15:00.003-04:00

Did you see PR last night?

No spoilers here, but I thought all three of the ladies did a smashing job. Even Kenley. Yeah, I love to hate on her, but I thought her collection was pretty fierce too. And what is with the ANTM/PR crossover going on? I counted four ex-ANTM contestants last night-- Eugena, Dani Evans, Bianca Golden, and Naima! (If it sounds like I watch too much reality TV, it's probably because I do.)

My favorite collection was Korto's-- Those colorful fans blew me away. Her selection of music was pretty awesome too. I've been googling non-stop trying to find out who produced the track. The song doesn't look like it's available commercially, but it's by someone named "Joshua" who posted a reply on Korto's runway video acknowledging he is the source of the music. He has a youtube page.

I want one of those fans.

Use Protection.

2008-10-03T14:56:00.003-04:00

Yikes, our markets caught business syphillis! Stephen Colbert explains:

Superman Cometh

2008-09-18T00:50:00.007-04:00

Izza Kizza loves Family Guy, comic books, and given the Shirley Ellis sample on this slick track, playground chants like The Clapping Song. It gives it a throwback cred that begs for a singalong. Well, there's that and digging up the jump rope in the back of your closet for a double dutch throwdown.

I was never very good at double dutch, so singalong it is!

Izza Kizza- Walk The Dog (ft Missy Elliot)
(Check out the myspace for info on how to download his Kizzaland mixtape for free!)

"Empanadas Are the New Cupcakes"

2008-09-15T15:07:00.007-04:00

We didn't see this in Beijing, but if the olympics pop into host town, "Williamsburg," at least you'll know what to expect.

"Hipster Olympics"

Oh so deliciously quotable.

How do you do it? Make me feel like I do?

2008-09-12T14:11:00.007-04:00

Currently I am reading Love is a Mix Tape by Rob Sheffield, which was highly recommended by my music loving friends.

The book made me so nostalgic for the mix tapes I made 10 years ago that I went digging through my drawers and boxes looking for the cassettes that had all my old favorites on them. I found one with some Incubus and Sarah McLachlan songs and happily popped it into my stereo.

I was bopping around singing “Stellar,” and generally having a grand time, when suddenly the tape stopped. Funny, I could have sworn there were more songs on this one. When I opened the deck, a whole blooming ribbon of cassette guts tangled the spindle, forcing me to do something I haven’t done in a decade—rewind the damn thing with a pencil*.

It’s funny how time forces you to remember the correct course of action for a problem that now feels utterly alien. Rewinding ribbon?!? I know I could just as well listen to an mp3 of the song or listen to the CD, but the low-fi, static buzz of my ancient recording takes me back to 1999, belting out this song with my best friend, and making it my secret love song for some boy I can’t even remember the name of right now**.

Incubus- Stellar
(Buy the album- Make Yourself)

(Buy Love is a Mix Tape by Rob Sheffield)

*- Almost completely sure that the tape is ruined. :(

**- Henry? I think it was Henry?

Judgement Day

2008-09-08T12:20:00.011-04:00

Season 2 of Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles premieres tonight on Fox.

I caught all of Season 1 on Hulu, and I am a believer now-- this is a great show. I hope Season 2 is just as good. Me thinks it will because Shirley Manson joins the cast, playing Zeiracorp executive, Catherine Weaver. Tune in tonight!

By far my favorite Garbage B-side...

Garbage- Trip My Wire

During her hiatus from Garbage, Shirley helped Jane's Addiction's Eric Avery with his solo album, lending a hand with lyrics and vocals. It certainly doesn't sound like anything Jane's Addiction or Garbage has ever released, but it's got kind of a lovely post-apocalyptic, off-beat charm. (Yeah, I don't think I've ever used "apocalypse" and "charming" in the same breath before.)

Eric Avery- Maybe ft. Shirley Manson

(Buy the album, Help Wanted)

Superpowers of Lykke Li! Part II

2008-09-04T01:43:00.000-04:00

(Photo: Andreas Öhlund)

Although it hardly feels like autumn in New York right now, when the air gets cooler, I know this song will be on heavy rotation for my September playlist.

I'm completely enamored with this song. More than a "little bit." Music is Love. For serious.

Happy autumn. Happy 24. So many reasons to be happy.

Lykke Li- Little Bit

(Buy the album, Youth Novels)

Superpowers of Lykke Li!

2008-09-02T03:02:00.010-04:00

This Swedish gal has all kinds of supernatural bewitchery up her (lovely cashmere) sleeves.

Like rockin' the megaphone and bringing sexy back with those platform boots for one.

And that sweater! That belt! (!!!) Doood, I'm having heart palpitations. I kinda wish I had a power that would enable me to reach through time, space, and the interweb to steal her damn outfit.

Lykke Li, I come in peace.

The Notorious C.H.O

2008-08-30T15:03:00.013-04:00

Growing up as an Asian American in the 90s meant slim pickings when it came to representation in the media. My idols were Kristi Yamaguchi, and Margaret Cho. One is an Olympic gold medalist, and the other just got a g-shot in her vagina.

You gotta love The Cho.

Now the All-American Girl has a reality show on VH1 called “The Cho Show,” and you can watch the first episode online here!

She may also add Broken Social Scene member to her resume soon.

Could this be the result of pleading with Kevin Drew’s answering machine during her visit to The Hour with George Stroumboulopoulos?

Hi Kevin Drew,

This is Margaret Cho. I am such a fan of yours and I wanna join the Broken Social Scene! There are so many people in the band no one will notice if there’s just one more person. I wanna join, and I can play any instrument. I’ll learn really fast. I’m Asian! I’m a quick study. Please let me join your band!

Will she rock the rain stick or the triangle? I can’t wait to find out.

Broken Social Scene: Cause=Time
(Buy the album here)

Yankee Doodle Dandy

2008-08-27T00:44:00.004-04:00

You know, I've been paying so much attention to the hoopla at the DNC, that I didn't know John McCain picked up a new endorsement.

*Shrugs* It's a toss up! Anyone else notice how Daddy Yankee totally stole the spotlight? I don't know what I found more disturbing though: Daddy Yankee endorsing John McCain's immigration policies, or hearing John McCain say, "Daddy Yankee."

Anyway, I'm still trying to figure out what they have in common.

Oh, right. They love that gasolina.

Birthdays: Shirley Manson

2008-08-26T03:48:00.005-04:00

Happy Birthday! Shirley Manson turns 42 years old today.

There are only maybe a handful of musicians who I would piss my pants if I ever met. Not surprisingly, kick-ass female rockers are at the top of the list, including Melissa Auf Der Maur, Emily Haines, Alison Mosshart, and of course, Shirley Manson.

I’m beyond disappointed that her record label is shelving her new album, which apparently they believe is too “noir” to turn a profit.

"I've had a really successful career. I don't really need to do anything for money and I certainly have no intention of doing that. I just want to live a creative life and sing songs that have some meaning for me personally," she says in an interview with The Scotsman.

You can catch her on The Terminator: The Sarah Conner Chronicles this fall as well. But mostly, I'm rooting for that album release.

Everything Has A Place

2008-08-25T02:47:00.005-04:00

Interior design is not a field in which I am particularly skilled. In any case, I came across this spread from Domino Magazine from 2007, which featured a house tour of Blonde Redhead's apartment, complete with photos of their baubles and knick knacks.

I'm kind of surprised actually, because listening to their moody melodies, I expected their living space to reflect the same darkness I hear in the music. Maybe my biggest surprise is that they have a cat. They're cat people! Who would have guessed? His name is "Toto" according to this interview.

Everything in the space is so delicate, fragile. Even Toto looks like he might shatter if you try to pet him, and yet it all fits. Everything has a place. My favorite piece in the apartment is the perculator on that stove. I know it doesn't seem very special considering all the other antiques, but the smell of brewing coffee says, "We are living here."

That's really the only thing that matters.

Blonde Redhead- Elephant Woman
(Buy Misery is a Butterfly)

Happy Happy Joy Joy

2008-08-23T05:32:00.004-04:00

Not long ago, I wrote about this great band called Joy Formidable. Label-less but talented, I wondered when they would get their big break. I'm so happy to report that they're on the Another Music= Another Kitchen roster! They'll also be playing Reading and Leeds this weekend, before hitting up London with Ra Ra Riot on Aug 26. It'll be a killer show, natch.

Take a look at JF's video for Austere. I don't know about you, but Ritzy looks like a pixie Alice in Wonderland here.

Tea partaaay!

Behold the Golden Age

2008-08-21T02:17:00.009-04:00

Ooh, so stuff from the new TV On The Radio album, Dear Silence* has leaked. I wanted to get really excited about this, but I'm not feelin' the new track. It's called "Golden Age" and if you are curious, you can snatch it up over at Pretty Much Amazing. While I hear some electro-beats in the same club as LCD Soundsystem, it's not shaking the rafters for me. Maybe after a few more spins, I'll issue a change of heart.

It's no Wolf Like Me, that's for sure. Man, that was a great song!

TV On The Radio- Wolf Like Me

(Buy the Return to Cookie Mountain)

* Well color me red, and call me Fred. The name of the new TVOTR album is Dear Science, not Dear Silence. Thanks for the correction, Sofi!

Oceans Will Rise

2008-08-19T17:16:00.005-04:00

I remember the first time I saw The Stills perform. It was in college, and they made chit chat about the wine selection at our local university haunts. Pretty much after they played their last song that night, Killer Bees, I was hooked on this band.

Today, this Montreal quintet releases their third studio album, Oceans Will Rise. Well, do the oceans rise? Or rather, have they met expectations? Every fan of this band remembers their stellar debut album, Logic Will Break Your Heart, supported by tours with indie darlings, Ryan Adams, and Interpol. Their next album, Without Feathers left Logic fans behind, so what can you expect from Oceans? You must guess they’re not going to do the same old thing again.

They haven’t, and I’m not disappointed either. I think Oceans will confirm that reinvention is always in vogue. Snakecharming The Masses is a hypnotic, frenzied refusal to pander, backed by some intense percussion work. Statue of Sirens sprints to the other end of the spectrum, a beautiful and pensive soliloquy that I really love, and sounds like something that would be highly approved of by The Doves. (Kind of makes sense, since I love The Doves too. Ha.) The only song I could do without is Being Here, which does nothing for me. Although I find the music video for that song supremely funny in a Sleepy Hollow meets Monty Python kind of way.

The Stills- Snakecharming The Masses

The Stills- Statue of Sirens

Buy the album

CBC Radio interview
Check out tour dates

Magic Wands

2008-08-16T04:49:00.006-04:00

You know when you were thirteen and your parents insisted you go to sleep away camp, but you thought it was a really lame idea? Like, you’d have to wear khaki shorts and make lanyards and birdhouses all summer? Not to mention the extreme sunburn potential and mosquito infestation.

But then you caught the eye of a girl at the all girl camp across the lake, and you thought, “Wow, she’s kind of awesome.” Next thing you know, you two are falling in love, rebelling against authority, and struggling to find a way to canoe into the sunset together.

Sigh, Teenage Love. ‘Tis a lovely thing.

Magic Wands- Teenage Lov e (box link)

Head to their myspace for more info. Did I mention they’re touring with The Kills, The Virgins, and Black Kids? Magic in the making, I tell ya.

Ass Backwards

2008-08-13T01:35:00.004-04:00

Barbara: Um, Mom? Should I let Dad know he's got his flag backwards?

Laura: Oh honey, let your Dad have his proud moment... At least it's right side up.

(photo via HuffPo)

Jam Rock Version 2.0

2008-08-08T00:28:00.011-04:00

You guys, I've never been good at Guitar Hero. In fact, I downright suck. I blame it on global warming... and my lack of hand eye coordination.

Anyway, today I learned via Wired, of this social-networking type website called JamLegend where users challenge each other for the right to call themselves a Guitar Hero. A computer keyboard is used in lieu of the actual controller, but the last I checked, Keyboard Hero didn't make the shortlist for cool names.

What I especially like about this site is that bands are encouraged to upload their music into the game as well. So who knows, one day I might be jamming (poorly) to one of your songs, unsigned band!

Here's a sneak peak:

JamLegend Trailer from JamLegend on Vimeo.

What's up, b? Wasabi

2008-08-07T13:34:00.006-04:00

Cover songs! My guilty pleasure.

I really like this cover of “Superstar” by Dallas group, Shock of Pleasure. The electronic chill out vibe hits the mark. Karen Carpenter would approve. I would listen to this a lot more if I was sad, drunk, or in love. Sometimes it’s hard to distinguish one from the other.

Shock of Pleasure- Superstar (The Carpenters Cover)
(Buy their EP on iTunes)

So how many of you remember Cibo Matto from the glorious 90s? After seeing them perform on Sessions on West 56th, I bought their second album, Stereo Type A. I remember getting my friend to listen to “Sci- Fi Wasabi,” and she turned to me and inquired as to why I was listening to such crap. Sci-Fi Wasabi was not top-40 material, but hearing Miho Hatori rap about economic duality gave me chills, I admit. This is a cover of Nirvana’s About A Girl. Somehow I can imagine Kurt Cobain crossing his arms up in heaven, all snug in his grandpa sweater, and nodding along.

Cibo Matto- About A Girl (Nirvana Cover)
(About A Girl is from the Moonchild-Sampler. Checkout the album, Stereo Type A, here)

This Doesn't Happen In Detention.

2008-08-05T06:00:00.002-04:00

I hate this JC Penny Back to School commercial:

Mostly because it makes me feel old. Also, I don't know many kids who can place the reference, do you?

Just for kicks, watch the original dancing scene from The Breakfast Club here.

Birthdays: Barack Obama

2008-08-05T03:36:00.005-04:00

Senator Barack Obama celebrated his 47th birthday yesterday.

Happy Birthday!

And next year, hopefully we can say, "Happy Birthday, Mr. President."

Greg... speaks!

2008-08-05T02:48:00.004-04:00

So I'm gearing up for the new Stills album that comes out later this month and for nostalgic purposes, I've been looking for videos of the band from the Logic Will Break Your Heart era.

I found this one where Oliver and Greg talk about their van, and that's when I realized that this is the first time I've heard Greg speak...ever.

I got a weird sensation from hearing him talk. It's kind of like when your mute Uncle Ralph asks you to pass the peas during Christmas dinner or something- you can't believe your ears, but you really want him to do it again.

Greg Paquet's not a mute of course, he was just the quietest. I miss the Logic era :( I miss Greg! I remember reading interviews from other band members that he was the most cerebral of the group. Here's an interview he did in 2003 where he drops vocab bombs and talks about poutine.

I miss Greg! :( Just thought I'd reiterate... sigh.

From Russia, No Love

2008-08-04T15:48:00.006-04:00

Russia's rank and file sponsors a bill to ban emo music, which they say, inspires "negative ideology." (You know they can't have any of that.)

As reported by The Guardian:

Last month the State Duma held a hearing on "Government Strategy in the Sphere of Spiritual and Ethical Education", a piece of legislation aimed at curbing "dangerous teen trends". There, without a clue in the world, social conservatives lumped "emos" together with skinheads, pushing for heavy regulation of emo websites and the banning of emo and goth fashion from schools and government buildings.

"The point of the bill is so that by 2020, Moscow will have someone to rule its government," explained Alexander Grishunin, an adviser to bill sponsor Yevgeny Yuryev, apparently without irony. "This is the first step in the public discourse."

Next on the agenda, book banning! Oops, been there, done that.

Breaking News, Chris Carrabba is adding Russia to his list of "The Places You Have Come to Fear the Most."

Bitten.

2008-08-04T00:39:00.005-04:00

The most enduring character created by the first lady of chick-lit is reincarnated for the next generation of book lovers. And I’m not even trying to be metaphoric.

You see, it’s kind of hard to resist, “Mr. Darcy with fangs.”

The last novel in Stephanie Meyers’ Twilight series came out this weekend and by all accounts, was well received. As for me, I read the first book last week just to see what everyone was fussing over. Despite myself, I’m hooked. Although I stumbled over some of her flowery language and over dependence on “perfect” and “angel” as descriptors for Edward Cullens (Vampire Darcy), I have to hand it to her for making me giggle and sigh like a schoolgirl. What is it about Darcy-esque characters that just won’t quit?

I was also reading on her website about how the Twilight series came about and it’s a good read for anyone who wants to get published.

Read a short interview with her in EW where she talks about where she gets her inspiration. (Spoiler: It’s music!)

It’s Cool To Give The Shirt Off Your Back

2008-07-31T01:41:00.007-04:00

So a little birdie told me about this Montreal t-shirt company that sells shirts with designs by indie rock stars whom we wish were our friends. (Tell me, who wouldn’t love to be part of the scene? You know the broken, but social one.) 100% of the profits are donated to a charity of the musician’s choice. I like those odds.

I’m kind of feeling this shirt designed by The National. Simple, and makes a statement:

Yellow Bird Project even has a theme song that you can listen to while shopping for new threads. The song is called “A Field of Birds” by Swedish musician, The Tallest Man on Earth, and you can download it for free on their site too.

T-shirts, free music, and a good cause. What’s not to love?

Find out more about Yellow Bird Project.

The Beginning Is Never The End

2008-07-31T00:56:00.005-04:00

One of the earliest albums that I bought for myself was the soundtrack to the 1997 film, Batman & Robin. Yes, that would be the film that tanked the franchise until Nolan and Bale resurrected it from the dead with Batman Begins.

What few people realize was that even though the film was one of the worst movies of the decade, the soundtrack was an unexpected mishmash of brilliance. (I have it on cassette! I was a bit of a late bloomer and didn’t have a CD player till much later in life.) Sandwiched between two versions of essentially the same Smashing Pumpkins songs were tracks from Bone Thugs, Jewel, and trip hop group, Moloko. It was an unconventional mix that really worked for me. Anyway, I only started thinking about this because best buddy and I caught the trailer for 2009’s graphic novel film de jour, The Watchmen, when we went to see The Dark Knight. I recognized the song as Smashing Pumpkins’ The Beginning Is The End Is The Beginning from B&R. It's also available on their album of singles and rarities.

Recycling a Batman song in a trailer shown before a new Batman movie? I kind of love it.

Watch the trailer for The Watchmen:

Smashing Pumpkins- The Beginning Is The End Is The Beginning
(Buy Batman and Robin, or the Pumpkins’ Singles and Rarities)

Why So Serious?

2008-07-30T15:15:00.002-04:00

So rarely is a movie hyped to mass proportions AND lives up to its reputation.

After watching The Dark Knight yesterday, I had a long walk and discussion with a friend about morality, humanity, chance, fate, God, and all that good stuff. "We can write an academic paper about this," my friend and I said. Haha, I'm sure someone is on it already. But I believe the same thing happened after I watched Memento. Christopher Nolan's storytelling is much admired. And Heath Ledger's Joker? All I can say is, "Wow..."

I Know The Way These Things Begin

2008-07-29T01:07:00.004-04:00

I still get chills whenever I hear, Caramel by Suzanne Vega. An acoustic-y version from one of my PBS favorites.

Loving the bass intro on that...

Side note, Sessions on West 54th was one of the greatest programs on public television!

The truth is here. Again.

2008-07-25T10:57:00.005-04:00

David Duchovny is promoting the hell out of the new X-Files movie. It’s an older, wiser, and grimier looking Fox Mulder, and I’m not sure I still want to believe.

Speaking of Duchovny, I don’t know how many of you remember Bree Sharp, but her claim to fame in the late 90s was penning a song about her love for David Duchovny. And then they played the song on the radio and everyone responded with, “Wow, that girl either insane, or incredibly talented. Or both.”

Afterwards, she continued releasing albums under her own label, and is slated to release her third studio album sometime this year. You can hear the new material on her myspace page.

Bree Sharp- David Duchovny

(Buy the album)

Smokey Rolls Down A Bollywood Music Vid

2008-07-23T01:27:00.011-04:00

I’m really not the biggest Devendra Banhart fan, but I’m digging the song, Carmensita right now. Yup, it’s the song from the Bollywood inspired music video featuring Natalie Portman and Banhart in, “racial drag,” as the Asian-American culture blog, Disgrasian puts it.

I wonder what inspired the Venezuelan-American born folkster to go Bollywood? I don’t condone racial drag, but at the very least it’s not The Love Guru.

Props for a catchy song, but I'm on the fence about the mv.

Devendra Banhart- Carmensita
(Buy the album)

Stay Golden

2008-07-22T17:49:00.006-04:00

The Emmy and Golden Globe winning actress, Estelle Getty, passed away earlier today from advanced dementia. She was 84 years old.

She played Sophia Petrillo, the feisty Sicilian matriarch of the long running sitcom, The Golden Girls. Growing up, I used to watch GG with my great grandmother every week, and Sophia was her favorite character. It's still one of my favorite shows.

You can still catch Sophia deliver her clever zingers on the Lifetime channel’s GG reruns.

Ms. Getty, you are a legend.

Who Would You Rather Be?

2008-07-19T06:00:00.003-04:00

After all this is gone,
Who would you rather be?
The Beatles or The Rolling Stones?

There’s a lot thinking going on these days about where my future is heading, so it helps me, I think, to just let it all go, and figure out what kind of direction I want for myself. (Easier said than done) They say these early years make the bulk of a quarter life crisis, and it couldn’t be closer to the truth. Sigh.

In any case, the bright side to my inclination for quick distractions helped me discover Metric’s acoustic version of Give Me Sympathy, which is off their forthcoming album. It was performed at Coachella for SPIN. I heard other live versions of this song, but I think I like it better acoustic. It gives it a little something extra, no? In fact, I love this song so much, I woke up this morning humming the melody. Wouldn’t surprise me if I was singing it in my sleep.

Emily Haines, now there’s a cool chick I admire. She and the guys are touring the festival circuit these next two months, and they’ll also be at All Points West in Jerz! It’ll be hot.

Metric- Give Me Sympathy (acoustic)
watch the performance here

Seeing Things

2008-07-18T01:53:00.005-04:00

Raise your hand if you knew Jakob Dylan put out a solo album.

I spent most of my adolescence spinning The Wallflowers on my CD player and thought about changing my name to “Josephine” (It’s a lovely song. Look into it!). I was also beyond thrilled to catch their show at the Highline Ballroom last year. Imagine my surprise to learn Jakob Dylan is going solo! The new album, Seeing Things is thoughtful, introspective, and stripped down. Although it’s a little too folksy for my taste, I don’t question the man’s songwriting ability. He’s got an on old soul and it shows.

Could this be the start of a long and prosperous solo career?

He performed from his album on The Tonight Show earlier this week:

Jakob Dylan- Something Good This Way Comes
(Buy the album: Seeing Things)

Memory Is a Two Way Street

2008-07-11T14:21:00.009-04:00

photo: Rémi Thériault

My friend is nostalgic for college radio. I too am guilty of being stuck in the past, staring off into space these days, daydreaming of better days. They probably weren’t even that much better, but I suppose that's what age does to you. It makes you view your past through a rose-colored lens.

So, getting on to my Canadian music fix, Two Hours Traffic is a band out of Prince Edward Island, and Little Jabs was nominated for a Polaris earlier this month. The album is infectious listening, filled with memories of college radio sounds, an interesting mix of rock and pop.

Two Hours Traffic- Stuck for Summer
Buy “Little Jabs” here.
Two Hours Traffic’s myspace

Stuck for Summer is not my favorite track, (however appropriate for my current situation). My favorite would probably be “Stolen Earrings,” which I dare say, makes kleptomania sound so endearing…

You should wear
that pair
of earrings that you stole.
You’ve got a fiery soul,
and everyone should know.

A live performance of this song is up on youtube if you’re interested in hearing it.

All American Girls

2008-07-04T16:39:00.005-04:00

As you all relax poolside, drinking beer and eating jello, remember there’s nothing more American than the All American Girl. Maybe my example won’t be the top choice to grace the pages of Maxim or FHM, but hey, butternuts.

Sleater-Kinney: Modern Girl
(Buy The Woods)

They write some of the most compelling lyrics. One of my biggest regrets is never getting the chance to see Sleater-Kinney in concert. Reunion tour? Maybe, soon?

What The Hell’s A Wonderwall, Anyway?

2008-07-01T05:55:00.003-04:00

Jay-Z’s response to Noel Gallagher’s comment that “hip hop is wrong for Glastonbury,” was to give the Oasis front man the musical finger. Another Wonderwall cover, anyone?

The only thing better than a really great cover, is a really bad one with the sole purpose of pissing someone off. You can watch his full set over here.

Welcome to Glastonbury, Mr. Carter.

Lost! Coldplay.

2008-06-29T00:26:00.000-04:00

Here are a couple of photos of Coldplay playing a free show at Rockafeller Center. I woke up at the crack of dawn for this. And promptly left right after their sound check.

It hit me as I was smothered between the diehard fans and tourists with their humongous signs, that Coldplay is… well, overrated. My mood might have been determined by the Coldplay zealot I was smushed against, who regularly reaffirmed her love for Chris Martin at seven minute intervals, ( “Did you know that he’s like, the cutest guy ever?”) or maybe the fact that she never set down her sign, even when the stage was empty, and made sure everyone felt the wrath of her enthusiasm. (You’re a fan. Great. I get it.) However, it was probably a combination of the company, and the realization that their music bored me to tears.

As I wiped the sleep from my eyes, and watched them tune up, I asked myself, “Why the hell am I here?” I mean, I loved the Violet Hill vid, but I suppose I was expecting the live act to live up to the hype. To be fair, it is a lot of hype, and it was a free show after all. As I see it, they don’t have very good luck with free shows. I wonder how many people who showed up at MSG were disappointed that their beloved rock god can’t remember the lyrics to his own songs. Their fans are loyal. Believe me, I was hit in the head with a sign by one. Hopefully the rest of their tour will go more smoothly.

As for me, Lovers in Japan is a great song. So is Violet Hill. I will always have Parachutes. But I won’t be shelling out money to see them any time soon.

Twice Is the Only Way to Live

2008-06-28T02:52:00.007-04:00

Far-fetched storylines, and a smartly dressed man-whore make up franchise known as Bond—James Bond. And just as Daniel Craig put his mark on the character, The Postmarks have decided to put their own spin on this classic Bond theme.

Sometime between 3am and 4am, I listened to their cover of “You Only Live Twice*,” on repeat, endlessly lulled by Tim Yehezkely’s soothing voice. She’s a girl with a boy name. Don’t you just love that? Not that Nancy Sinatra didn’t rock the original, but I love the mellowness of this version. It’s so easy to get swept away.

The Postmarks- You Only Live Twice

The song is featured on a compilation of cover songs called “By The Numbers,” which you can download for free at eMusic. To get the songs and find out more about The Postmarks, visit their myspace page.

*Are we feeling nostalgic? Rent the movie.

Amy Has Emphysema

2008-06-23T12:30:00.003-04:00

Amy Winehouse's father reports that his daughter has an early stage of emphysema, most definitely caused by her cigarette and crack cocaine smoking. Read the full story here.

It's All About Air Control

2008-06-20T12:53:00.004-04:00

Just goes to show you that you don't need fancy instruments to make music.

Nothin' but respect for kazoos.

Chance of Rain

2008-06-09T00:11:00.007-04:00

Vicious conditions
Many moons full, I wonder?
One contradiction

Built To Spill- The Weather

(buy Ancient Melodies of the Future)

Shake Your Tambourine

2008-06-07T18:15:00.004-04:00

These days I’m getting into a band called The Duke Spirit, with a fresh faced gal named Liela Moss as the lead singer. She’s got Sharin Foo’s haircut, Grace Slick’s spirit, and an attitude to boot. Although they’re billed as more of a soul/altrock/grunge group, The Duke Spirit’s aural persona sounds like a modern day Jefferson Airplane, which is fitting since they are a fixture on the festival circuit. Times have changed since the Monterey Pop Fest, but musical roots are alive in the bands today.

The Duke Spirit will be appearing at the All Points West in New Jersey, and the American Eagle Music Festival in Philly. Don’t forget to pack your tambourines!

The Duke Spirit- The Step & The Walk
(Buy the new album, Neptune)
(myspace)

Watch the video for their single:

One Year Later

2008-06-01T04:12:00.005-04:00

Maria Taylor- A Good Start
(Buy Lynn Teeter Flower)

If this lovely lady sounds familiar to you, you might recognize her better from her other act with Orenda Fink, known as Azure Ray. I’m a big fan of Azure Ray, and was sad when they disbanded in 2004, but they’ve both gone on to lucrative solo acts. “A Good Start” is fuel for my inner optimist, the girl who agrees with solitude and intuition. Only you know what’s best for you. I can’t even stress that enough.

Nearly one year ago, I started this blog as a place to share my musical tastes, and as motivation to get out and cover some wicked shows. Have I succeeded? Meh, maybe. I have enjoyed getting to know some of my readers better, and getting acquainted with smaller, independent artists whose talent and persistence in this harsh business continually leave me in awe. How do you do it? However, I do apologize for not updating as often as I should. I’m going through some career turbulence right now which prevents me from focusing attention here more often. But I promise, when all this blogging stuff stops being fun, or when giant speakers finally do in my ear drums, (whichever comes first), is the day I retire my bloggy keyboard for good. Until then, do as Rihanna says, and "Please don't stop the music!"

Here’s to fragments of progress.

Dance Dance Revolución

2008-05-23T04:42:00.005-04:00

I don’t know about you, but to me, the buzz surrounding Coldplay’s fourth studio album can almost be labeled non-existent to slow simmer. Maybe I like it better this way. I just want to enjoy the single like a juicy secret before I hear it on a loop every hour on the radio, or in a NY cabbie’s car stereo when I’m going somewhere trés important.

Okay, that last one is a lie. I haven’t been in a cab since 2003. Metrocards, baby, Metrocards. Cabs are still yellow right? :)

The single off the new record, Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, is Violet Hill, and in addition to the conventional music video, the band also posted an alternative video on their myspace, protesting war and violence in the most unconventional way I can think of— dancing politicians. I vote for this one to be the official video. It’s powerful stuff.

And to his credit, John McCain never got caught dancing in public. Don’t know if it’s because he can’t get down, or he really can’t get down.

Coldplay- Violet Hill
(Preorder your copy Viva la Vida or Death… available June 17th)

Set Em' Up & Knock Em' Down

2008-05-21T09:16:00.009-04:00

(photo: Alan Marvas)

Brooklyn’s own Alan Wilkis has put out a hodgepodge-homage to the glam old school electronic, soul and rock, entitled Babies Dream Big, which is sure to tear up any summer playlist. It wasn’t only the music that gave me fuzzy feelings. His songs have also been featured in Good Magazine’s political profiles of our presidential candidates. Since yesterday’s Oregon and Kentucky primaries has my choice for president inching just a little closer to the White House, let’s celebrate democracy, shall we?

And what’s democracy if not the freedom of choice?

Watch the other videos on his myspace page!

Alan Wilkis- I'm Famous
(Buy Babies Dream Big)

No, Wow? -- The Kills @ Webster Hall

2008-05-04T00:33:00.008-04:00

Here are a few shots of The Kills at Webster Hall on May 1st. Exciting night it was—about a quarter through their set, the fire department showed up on stage to investigate some kind of fire. (Unsure of what it was exactly, but their set was delayed for 10 minutes. I didn’t see any fire, but I suspect it was behind all the equipment I was in front of.)

The Kills looked confused after finishing No Wow-- Like what's with the all the firemen? But the firemen and security looked like they enjoyed the attention. Rock on FDNY.

And as you may already know, Kate Moss is accompanying Jamie on this tour. She was hanging out by the backstage door, singing along and looking like she was enjoying herself. Not sure Alison is so happy with her continual presence however…

THE KILLS, WEBSTER HALL, 5.1.08 SETLIST

URA FEVER
PULL A U
SOUR CHERRY
TAPE SONG
NO WOW
ALPHABET PONY
WAIT
LAST DAY OF MAGIC
KISSY KISSY
GOOD ONES
WHAT NEW YORK USED TO BE
CHEAP AND CHEERFUL
FRIED MY LITTLE BRAINS
GOOD NIGHT BAD MORNING

LOVE IS A DESERTER/ SEARCH FOR CHERRY RED
DROPOUT BOOGIE

Flow Natural

2008-04-29T01:52:00.007-04:00

There may not be another place in the world where the bike messenger is as vital to the city energy as right here in New York. And leave it to the messengers to provide me with a daily dose of philosophical enlightenment. So tonight I watched Daniel Leeb’s 2005 docu-short about 10 times, and I’m loving it more every time. It’s mostly follows one messenger named Alfred Bobe Jr. as he goes on his daily run. His matter-of-fact attitude and talk of consciousness and awareness makes him a yogi on wheels, if not an artist. Seriously, not getting run over by the psycho traffic should be an art form.

Messenger

The man's got some insight, I tell you.

I love riding through here, you know? We have the Plaza Hotel on 5th avenue. This whole area smells like money…

(Sniffs the air as he rides pass a Central Park carriage.)

Or horse shit.

It is what it is...

Love the use of Masta Killa too. Old School/New Classic.

Water can flow, water can crash. Be water, my friend.

Masta Killa- Masta Killa
(Buy Masta Killa- No Said Date)

Knock Knock. Hello? Anyone There?

2008-04-17T13:22:00.006-04:00

I'm off to Boston for a few days. In the meantime, someone should take a look at those cardboarded windows. Wouldn't hurt to find out where the rest of the house is too.

"Of all the endless combinations of words in all of history, 'Cellar Door' is the most beautiful."- Ms. Pomeroy, Donnie Darko

Sensible Deductions

2008-04-15T20:00:00.005-04:00

MadTV's Keegan-Michael Key's Sensual Seduction spoof reminds us to maximize our deductions on this last day for filing tax returns. He might have some trouble writing off the bong and the mountain of weed though, but just sayin' is all.

Also, this gentleman ,who might be your accountant, is jumping in on this musical fun too. Steve Zelin quit his job to pursue music full time and he's something like the Weird-Al Yankovic of CPAs. He does accountant-themed parodies, so his audience must be rather limited. Not that we can't all appreciate "Tax Busters", a spirited rendition of "Ghost Busters," but maybe he should keep his day job.

For You, A Thousand Times Over

2008-04-14T12:36:00.006-04:00

After finishing A Thousand Splendid Suns a few weeks ago, I eagerly picked up The Kite Runner. I stayed up until the wee hours last night finishing it because I couldn't’t bear to put it down. Khaled Hosseini is such a brilliant writer, and it’s been a really long time that I’ve read a novel worthy of getting under-eye dark circles.

It's been a couple of years since I've really enjoyed a book, and I don't mean reading on the subway during morning commute, or catching bits and paragraphs whenever I can. So last week when the weather was beautiful, I went to Bryant Park, and sat in the park, soaked up the sun, marveled at how green the lawn was, enjoyed a warm breeze and just read and read. There is something so satisfying about getting knee deep in a novel with no distractions except when the wind gets ahead of itself and turns the pages for me.

What should I read now?

Dealing A False Hand

2008-04-11T01:21:00.005-04:00

My dear friend Sofiblu updates me on music I should know about, so I was excited when I hit the theatre today to catch a screening of 21, and the opening scene featured one of her picks, MGMT’s “Time To Pretend.”

This is our decision to live fast and die young,
We’ve got the vision, now let’s have some fun.

MGMT- Time To Pretend
(Buy Oracular Spectacular)

However, it’s ironic that Time To Pretend is the song choice considering the controversy surrounding the film. The story is based on a real-life MIT blackjack team who beat the odds and raked in millions of dollars at the casinos. The movie version is led primarily by Caucasian actors, like Jim Sturgess, with Asian-Americans playing supporting roles. Problem is, the real MIT team and was led by Jeff Ma and consisted of mostly Asian-Americans. I know movies are “loosely based” on the real story, but that’s quite a liberty to take on casting. Hypothetically, if the real-life team was headed by an African-American or a Latino-American, would studios have taken such liberties? Does having an Asian-American male, in a leading dramatic role that has nothing to do with a historical period, and everything to do with a damn good story, signify the film will tank in the box office?

Studio executives need to take a risk. The bottom line is the bottom line, but give the audience some credit that they’ll shell out money for a good story regardless of the skin color of the lead actors. That kind of honesty would be refreshing, and I'm not the only one who thinks so.

Block Party

2008-04-08T18:53:00.005-04:00

I'm going through a dry spell. I'm a girl! I have needs! The dry spell I speak of has to do with one of women's greatest pleasures: shopping. It's a self-imposed ban that I'm calling "wallet celibacy."

However, my sob story shouldn't stop you from picking up this really adorable & portable ipod speaker. No batteries needed, you plug your ipod into this baby and you're good to go. It's available through this retailer, and they also ship to the UK and Canada. Isn't it cute? I'm thinking it would be rad to try to build a lego house and plug a whole bunch of ipods into it. Art project! Woot!

The Lady Reincarnate

2008-04-08T12:34:00.004-04:00

I’ve been collecting covers of Elliot Smith’s "Between The Bars" for a little while now, and although I can’t say the collection I’ve amassed is particularly impressive, there is one cover that stands out, and it belongs to Ms. Madeleine Peyroux.

Unlike the other covers I have heard, which are distinctly Elliot Smith, her cover has Lady Day stamped all over it. From the surreptitious gloom haunting the intimate vocals, she may as well light up a cigarette and take solitude on the stage of a smoke filled jazz bar. If Elliot Smith and Billie D had a love child, it wouldn’t surprise me if it was this amazing young woman.

This track comes from her second album, Careless Love.

Madeleine Peyroux- Between The Bars
(Buy Careless Love)

In Great Company

2008-04-07T01:45:00.001-04:00

The UK births yet another great band called Red Light Company, and they have opened for one of my favorite groups, The Editors. Fresh, bright, kind of like a springtime green salad, I can absolutely hear RLC being enjoyed on a patio deck party of some sort. Watch for the EP available for download later this month. You CD fanatics out there, can grab a copy on May 26th.

Until then, enjoy this mp3 and video!

Red Light Company- With Lights Out
(Red Light Company myspace)

"Pickles & Fries. Hold the Rabbit."

2008-04-05T22:20:00.010-04:00

Last year I blogged about this woman's awesome website devoted to rockstars and the food they love to cook. It's nice to see she's on the move again, and there's even a foodie interview with Brooklyn's White Rabbits. Remember them? Well breaking news! I am happy to report that, the White Rabbits "eat daily." Good to know.

Steve and Greg also talk about their bitchin recipe for something called, "The Long Burger." Watch Jen's interview to see what the heck goes into a long burger.

And earlier today I made that Sam Fogarino fettucine dish again which was yum as usual. Mushrooms and cream? Seriously, what's not to like?

Beat On, My Metal Heart

2008-04-03T01:45:00.011-04:00

Oh, Chan... Chan, Chan, Chan. You are the rare and enigmatic one.

Did y'all catch her performance on Letterman a couple of days ago? She sang her heart out, mimed the shizzile out of that song, and was like, "talk to the hand." I mean, maybe she jot down some lyrics to jog her memory. It happens, you know? Songs are generally made up of lots of words. Can't expect to remember all of them. Sheesh-- she's not a dictionary.

Oh, Chan... we love you.

Cat Power & The Delta Blues- Metal Heart (Live on Late Show with David Letterman)

(Buy Jukebox)

Gypsy Death... and You

2008-04-02T01:40:00.005-04:00

Midnight Boom was released last month, and I’m in love with it. It seems that The Kills have done some serious editing in terms of their drum machine. While the music is not appropriate for interstate highway chases like on their last two albums, it’s kind of perfect for the pit stop. The occasional pull-over, let’s stop and think about our overwhelming badge of coolness.

Understandably, the duo gets a lot of flack for purporting an aura of intense secrecy and mythology, even giving each other little names like VV and Hotel—right, it’s drivel to anyone else except the two of them. Kate Moss excepted perhaps.

It’s been reported that Alison Mosshart is having issues with her bandmate’s girlfriend. No doubt, three’s company, and I bet the rumors of a Hince/Moss gypsy wedding in the works can only add oil to the fire. I would personally hate to see this affect the quality of their music, and their live show. Mosshart has banned Moss from appearing with them onstage or intruding on their live act, which I hear is electric—addictive, sweaty guitar licks, ferocious chain-smoking, sexual energy. It sounds pretty amazing. Haven’t seen them live yet, but they’re making their way to New York again (Webster Hall, May 1st!) Come next month, I hope I only count 2 people on stage…

And here is just Alison, doing her thing. Go girl.

The Kills- Gypsy Death and You
(Buy Keep Your Mean Side)

“DJ, Spin That Muxtape”

2008-03-27T23:34:00.004-04:00

So many things to do. Things I meant to write and send weeks ago. Plans to make, and then a pal sends me this:

He knows me well. I will drop everything to mix a mix tape! It's my weakness. My kryptonite. My procrastination instigator- ::shakes fist::

Quick on the heels of IMP, this site is getting SLAMMED with traffic. Upload tracks, stream other people’s “mux tape”. I love the simplicity of it all. With no ads, it couldn't be easier to see and hear what people are putting on their mix tapes. The only missing component perhaps, is a forum to share back stories. A story behind the music is always the best part.

Putting On Airs? Not here.

2008-03-27T00:55:00.003-04:00

Like Jordin Sparks says, "No air air air..."

Be spontaneous? Quit job and be happy?

These are hard times for dreamers...

The Stills, Bowery Ballroom, 3.8.08

2008-03-26T18:02:00.014-04:00

The Stills played Bowery Ballroom March 8th and today is March 26th. So yes… this post is a just a tad overdue.

My favorite French Canadians played a lot of material from their upcoming album, which might be viewed as redemption for their last album. Without Feathers received mixed reviews with most fans scratching their heads confused about their musical direction. Me too... but it grows on you eventually. Tim Fletcher and Dave Hamlin write songs that bleed into each other-- that's probably what makes them so darn good, although most people seem to favor Tim’s dark romanticism, poetry slam-ness. It's what we fell in love with on Logic, and it sounds like it’s going to be all over this third album. Excited! Can't wait for it.

I recall Tim was sick but obliged the crowd by ripping through a soon to be crowd favorite- "Eastern Europe"- a song that's about "being sick and fucked up in Bulgaria."

The openers were pretty great too. I especially liked this one band called Wintersleep. They hail from Halifax. Their keyboardist worked it on their song "Oblivion." It was this very cute aerobic dance/jog/excercise infomercial thing. Wintersleep aerobics tape in the works? One can only hope.

Setlist, The Stills at Bowery Ballroom- 3.8.08

Shoplifter

Still In Love

Gender Bombs

Of Montreal

Destroyer

Eastern Europe*

Being Here*

Lola Stars and Stripes

Don't Talk Down*

Snake-Charming*

Killer Bees

Rooibus*

In The Beginning

Retour A Vega

Love & Death

*= new song

Wintersleep- Oblivion

Buy Welcome To The Night Sky

The Stills- Snake Charming

Watch the video here

Life drones on and we all go up in flames.

Flossy Is The Word

2008-03-22T00:43:00.005-04:00

Fans of Fergie Fer’s spelling skills, can celebrate their love of the most popular Facebook application, Scrabulous with this TastesLikeTV.com remake of her pop hit, Glamorous. I believe the creators of the addictive word game do a cameo here.

I imagine the back story goes like this:

Sometimes I think back to 1994. Balmy summer game nights in East Santa Monica. Bobby threw down JOBE like it was a real word. I looked him dead in the eye and said,

“Use it in a sentence.”
“After college, I had difficulty finding a jooobe…..?”
“Hey B, If you ain’t got no vocab, take yo’ dumbass home.”

Then we put on our bling and sang this song.

Andrew Bird: Chi-town's Finest

2008-03-20T15:50:00.008-04:00

Chicago’s roster of illustrious musicians can add Andrew Bird to its list. At least in my humble opinion, the guy is a genius. He plays the glockenspiel for starters, and I don’t even know what a glockenspiel is (wikipedia, you teach me new things every day).

I am particularly blown away by Imitosis. Lyrical wit, and a head bobbing beat. Crafty arachnids in the video for this single get it on to his cheeky plucking. It’s like a mad-dream science experiment gone right.

Two tracks on the album begin with chirping birds and they remind me that today is the first day of spring. Mea culpa, my bad-- I know I am kind of slow on this, as his album made its debut last year, but hey, better late than never, right? Take my new love for Andrew Bird as a sign: spring's a great time to get into something new.

Andrew Bird- Imitosis
(buy the album, Armchair Apocrypha)

Friday, I'm in Love

2008-03-14T15:52:00.002-04:00

Squint real hard and I swear Robert Smith looks a lot like Sune Wagner of The Raveonettes in this video.

Let's get the weekend started already!

Weekend en L'appartement

2008-03-11T23:35:00.008-04:00

The Stills were great this weekend (pics and recap to come) but it wasn’t the only thing on my to-do list. I also saw L’Appartment for the first time, which is the movie the 2003 film, Wicker Park, is based on. And if you’re familiar with the Wicker Park soundtrack, you’ve heard of a little Stills song called Retour A Vega. Oh full circle!

The story of course is about a love triangle (possibly a love-square) that starts with a man’s obsession with a woman he sees through a store window, and it’s quite a ride from there on end. If you have never seen either movie, I would recommend seeing Wicker Park first, and then the original. I mean, WP is good and all, but it will pale in comparison if you see L'Appartement first.

The Stills- Retour A Vega

(one of the most beautiful songs ever! Get the Wicker park soundtrack here)

Setting the table

2008-03-07T12:58:00.001-05:00

I fold up his letter and put it in my pocket.
These brain waves scribbles reply but filters the doubt
orange pulp from the juice
I don't know how to be a two.
There is only one glass in the house.

Irish Eyes are Smiling

2008-03-06T00:36:00.009-05:00

Kieran from the Dublin band, Delorentos was sweet enough to send me some tracks off their latest album, In Love with Detail.

What I really love about this band is their range—they can rock out, slow it down, and short of doing the hokey pokey and turn it all around, produce rock pop worthy of a road-trip sing-along.

And they will be in New York this weekend for the Craic Festival at Mercury Lounge (update: tix are sold out :( This makes me sad even though I already know I can't make it.) Sadly, I already have plans to see The Stills and I have been dutifully counting down the days on my calendar so I will have to miss this show, but if any of you go, let me know how it goes. Not to worry, I have no doubt that we’ll be hearing a lot more from this group.

Delorentos- The Basis of Everything
(Album available on iTunes and Amazon)

Other noteworthy tracks: “Stop” and “Do You Realize” and you can listen to both on their myspace.

2008-03-05T21:41:00.004-05:00

Back from my first snowboarding trip which was really fun. I fell a lot and watched little kids zoom by me on the slope. I also could not get off the lift without tripping. Oh well, baby steps, you know? Next time I will learn how to stop without tumbling.

But I also caught a cold and now am subsisting on cough drops... it sucks to be sick!

Beauty In the Know, In the Nose

2008-03-05T12:55:00.010-05:00

Went to see Penelope yesterday with a girlfriend, and of course the theatre was packed with women. Yes, we do love our chick-flick bonding time. Billed as a modern day fairy-tale, the film is about a wealthy girl named Penelope Wilhern who is cursed with porcine features-- pig snout and floppy ears. Needless to say, this does not bode well for little Penelope who grows up with no playmates and an overprotective mother who wants to hide her from a world obsessed with appearances. The only way to break the curse is if "one of her own" (a blueblood) can accept her and marry her. Mommy Dearest rounds up the best matchmakers and funds a dowry to try to get Penelope married off, but once her suiters get a glimpse of her, they go running. But then she meets a gambler named Max and then everything changes...

It's a very cute movie, but not for cynical hearts. It is as much a tale about self-acceptance as it is a love story, but it doesn't get all after-school-special on you, if you know what I mean. The soundtrack is also surprisingly good, featuring artists like Sigor Ros and Stars, as well as up and coming bands like fellow Canadian group, Paper Moon from Winnipeg, Manitoba. I thought their song "String of Blinking Lights" was written especially for the movie because I misheard the lyrics:

A bottle of wine that hadn't been opened yet.
We forgot about it while you were here.
And a string of blinking lights that Penelope put away.

She actually sings, "a string of blinking lights that can now be put away."

Oops, my bad. But Paper Moon is still pop heaven though.

Penelope, starring Christina Ricci, James McAvoy, Reese Witherspoon, and featuring Richard E. Grant (Posh Nosh!)

Paper Moon- String of Blinking Lights
(Buy their album or buy the Penelope soundtrack)

Music and Lyrics. Drum roll please...

2008-02-25T14:31:00.002-05:00

Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova won an Oscar for best original song last night at the Academy Awards, beating out songs from Hollywood blockbusters like Enchanted and August Rush.

It was sweet that Jon Stewart let Marketa got to come back out and give her speech after she was cut off by the orchestra.

Also, how cute is Laura Linney? Seems like she is a huge fan of "Once" -- she looks like she's their proud mama or something.

Memento Mori

2008-02-24T01:08:00.013-05:00

I was inspired to put together this small mix by one of my favorite Nina Cassian poems.

Evolution

Today a grandly furious storm
hurled a pile of mussels at my feet,
reminding me of the first creation.
O sea, that element in which I was born.

Cradle of life, long convoy
of sea anemones, reptiles
and scaly monsters, winding toward us
imprisoned in our sweet and fragile forms…

I came from the sea and to the sea
I would return, to be immersed in her story,
ever lost and everlasting.
Black mussels on the sore: memento mori.

Jane Vain & The Dark Matter are rapidly becoming one of my top picks for the year. They are currently on tour in their native Canada, so if you are ever so lucky to see them live, please do! And if you didn't already know, their fellow countrywoman, Melissa Auf Der Maur is hard at work on her new album which from I gather on her blog (the woman is also fond of lightning-- love her!), is going to be very dark and mysterious. The New Cassettes are a group of newcomers who are currently unsigned at the moment but I’m betting their indie rock tunes translate really well in a live arena. I'm capping it off with some Audrey Hepburn a la Breakfast at Tiffanys. Holly Golightly, I always try to start my morning with coffee and window shopping too.

Melissa Auf Der Maur- Followed the Waves

(Buy Auf der Maur)

New Cassettes- I Built The Ark
(visit the band's myspace)

Jane Vain & The Dark Matter- Ships
(Buy Love Is Where The Smoke Is)

Badly Drawn Boy- River, Sea, Ocean
(Buy About A Boy OST)

(Rent the movie!)

Audrey Hepburn- Moon River

(Buy Breakfast at Tiffany's OST)

(Rent the movie!)

5

2008-02-21T02:12:00.000-05:00

I would rather pine than settle
I would rather be alone than unhappy
I would rather be happy and alone
I am thinking always
This isn’t happening

Joy, Sheer Joy

2008-02-21T00:19:00.003-05:00

If you need a little somethin’ somethin’ to gear up for spring, may I suggest The Joy Formidable?

Genuinely in love with what I’m hearing from this noisy pop band from the UK. Sounds like: high school in reverse, kissing in a ferris wheel spinning too fast, but getting off the ride with a big grin and the promise of an ice cream cone. Well, that’s how I would describe these guys. Already on the radar of BBC Radio’s Steve Lamacq, how is it possible that they don’t have a label? Someone sign them already so they can put out a full length album.

The Joy Formidable- Austere (link expired)
(download more tunes from the band’s myspace )

Primary Colors

2008-02-20T23:43:00.003-05:00

Retail giant, Gap Inc. will be known for more than cheap tees and basic neutrals. In something of a marketing ploy, Gap has partnered with indie musicians and film makers to give your favorite colors a voice. Colors were first assigned to musicians to do with what they will, and then the songs were given to filmmakers for interpretation in the music video. Art comes full circle.

Needless to say, my favorite is Black/White which was assigned to The Raveonettes. They swish up Black & White quite nicely. The director for the music video, Chris Do, did an amazing job capturing the essence of the song. How many times have you wondered what would happen if you got high on acid and wandered through the marshes at twilight? Black & White, my friends. This is what would happen:

Other musicians on this project include Dntel (Red), Swizz Beatz (Green), Marie Digby (Yellow) and The Blakes (Blue).

Head over to The Sound of Color to watch all the videos and download all songs for free until March 15!

“Pick Me Up In Echo Park!”

2008-02-17T01:20:00.005-05:00

My ears needed a break from the stuff that I normally listen to, and I stumbled upon this gem from a Cambodian band via L.A. called Dengue Fever that I just had to share. Best band name, they have not. I wouldn’t have chosen to name my band after an infectious disease, but hey, I’m not in a group that covers some really catchy Cambodian pop tunes either. While almost all of their music is sung in Khmer, on the new album, Venus on Earth, they venture into some English songs as well like, “Sober Driver.”

It tells the tale of a girl who calls up a guy she is sometimes into, but really, she just needs a designated driver. How messed up is that? Vehicular heartbreak collision ahead. Department of Transportation, please make a road sign for this.

Interesting note, Dengue Fever also has a documentary coming out called Sleepwalking Through the Mekong, which chronicles their 2005 tour in Cambodia. It will be shown at UnionDocs in Brooklyn. And catch them on tour in March as well when they drop by Mercury Lounge on March 4th and Southpaw on March 5th.

Dengue Fever- Sober Driver (link expired)
(Buy the album, Venus On Earth)
(band's myspace)

Sugar got a long way to get you

2008-02-06T14:32:00.000-05:00

New shizz (yes I said it) from Erykah Badu coming out on February 26th, which is also the singer's 37th birthday. She doesnt look a day over 30. Puh-leese.

The album will be titled New Amerykah (a change from the previous title, The Kabah) and there's already a video out for the single, "Honey." Check it out. It is a miracle some of the people can keep a straight face, because she is making me crack up. One of the most original videos I have seen, and if it's any indication of how the rest of the album will sound, it will live up to its hype. What hype you ask? The hype I am creating. Okay, so there's little if any mention of her in mainstream media these days, but that's why you read blogs right? Watch Miss Badu talk about this new single.

It'll be fierce! Support your local record store! Oh too good.

Change Starts Tomorrow

2008-02-04T22:35:00.002-05:00

Will.I.Am enlists some big names for this music video set to one of Barack Obama's speeches. Spoken word poetry jam at its finest.

Inspiring! Thanks to Michelle for showing this to me.

Please remember to vote tomorrow!

will.i.am - Yes We Can (Barack Obama speech) (link expired)

Halfway There

2008-02-04T01:04:00.001-05:00

I guess I can say I accomplished something this weekend:

1) Finally signed up for the International Mixed Tape Project with the expectation that it will be like Christmas every month. Can't wait to get my first mix!

2) Realized it's okay to fall hard, but maybe it wouldn't hurt to stop falling hard for unavailable men. Then again....

3) How else am I going to get material for a great mix? And bounce back? And send out good vibes into the world? Right after I finish these cookies.. yes. S reminds me that we will be seeing The Stills in a month which will cheer me up greatly. Something to look forward to.

4) Also, I need to get film for my lomography camera. The damn thing has been sitting on the desk since Thanksgiving, and I really would like to take it out to a show. Date with my lomography camera. Hot stuff.

No more sighs. Well here's a great opportunity to talk about how music defines a precise moment in time. I call this the Noel Crane effect. Do you remember when Felicity broke up with Noel and he sat in his beanbag chair in the dark listening to REM- Everybody Hurts on a loop? They don't make TV like that anymore.

Bouncing bouncing bouncing back...

Sara Bareilles- Between The Lines (link expired)
(Buy Little Voices)

Side A: Track 1

2008-01-29T17:55:00.002-05:00

The Brooklyn based, fredflare is selling the next era of mixed-tape technology--- the mix tape USB drive. The packaging is a cute homage to the cassette tape with the USB drive all snug inside a fake cassette, but me thinks, why can't I just buy a usb drive and cut a hole in an old cassette? (At $22 for 64mb, it hardly seems worth the price, no?) Or better yet, do as your grandma would do-- make it from scratch. Bring out that old tape recorder! Call me old school, I would prefer a cassette or a CD. It's just more personal. Even so, I don't think a lot of people still make these things, except for the awesome members of the International Mixed Tape Project or "Love is a Mixed Tape" author, Rob Sheffield. What happened to the good old days when a boy likes a girl and as a symbol of that affection, said boy gives said girl a mixed tape/cd?

"Excuse me, here is the soundtrack to my heart. I think you are cool. Thank you for existing."

I have been mentally making a list of songs I would put on a tape for someone. In that 36 minutes and 39 seconds of music mixology, there is something to be said for who we are when we are apart, who we are when we are together. And if when we are together, I hear Radiohead's "All I Need" blaring over the soundsystem in my head, then who am I to shut that off?

But oh... if you are not hearing what I'm hearing...

Radiohead- All I Need (link expired)

(Buy In Rainbows)

Lost in Translation: 2 Days in Paris

2008-01-27T01:14:00.003-05:00

2 Days in Paris is now available on DVD.

Like to own?

I like to own.

Nouvelle Vague (featuring Julie Delpy)- La La La (expired)
(Buy the soundtrack)

“23” + 1: Blonde Redhead, Raveonettes at Terminal 5

2008-01-23T19:49:00.001-05:00

Nothing like getting back into the game with a little Blonde Redhead at Terminal 5.

Best part of the night was when a plaid-clad fellow showed up to jam with Kazu Makino and the boys on “23”.

“I don’t know who this is,” said Kazu, feigning recognition of one of the most recognizable guys in the scene.

Even though I was pretty far away from the front of the stage, I knew exactly who that was. I pretty much jumped on my friend, shaking him silly, shouting. “Oh my god! That's Paul Banks!!!” I was surprised when not a few more people in the crowd went a little crazy. Yes, guilty as charged, I am the screaming Interpol fan. And how jealous am I? I wish I had this guy’s view.

Because in all honesty can you tell that this blur right here is Paul Banks?

Well this one is a little better...

Everyone was pretty into BR. Does anyone know the name of the last song they played? Ah, I wish there was a setlist floating around somewhere.

The Raveonettes had their share of fans too. Lust Lust Lust, which received mixed reviews still has a few gems like "Lust" and "Aly, Walk With Me." I’ve never heard “Here Comes Mary” live either, so that was a real treat. They'll be back in the city in March at Bowery Ballroom, which they've called their "favorite venue."

The Raveonettes- My Tornado (expired)
(Buy Whip It On)

Blonde Redhead- 23 (expired)
(Buy 23)

Celebs Sure Do Love That Swag

2008-01-17T00:25:00.000-05:00

Props to Jimmy Kimmel airing these old clips so the writers on strike can get their residual paychecks.

I too have wondered where some of these musicians get ideas for names of their band. I guess I can cross The Killers off that list!

Broken English

2008-01-07T00:01:00.001-05:00

I don't actually remember if this screenshot of Parker Posey, which supposedly was taken from the film, Broken English, was actually in the film. But I love the colors that seemingly saturate everything around her as she stares vapidly out into the streets.

There have been plenty of vapid staring as of late. 2008 is not starting so well... In one long breath, I am trying to build a groundswell of passion in my tone, in my language, in my stride, I am refusing to second doubt myself. I am trying to better understand my values but like Obama tries to say, "Where is the middle ground?" Why is it so hard to be valued as a whole person? My vices are as important to me as my virtues.

In Broken English, Nora Wilder (Posey) is working a job in which she finds no satisfaction. She ends up at a party and meeting someone who throws her for a loop, and she starts questioning why she has put her life on hold. She and her best friend go to Paris to look for this man, and it's basically one woman's realizations of her values.

My oldest and dearest friend and I pattered through the floors of Barnes and Noble talking about politics and art and sociology, and business, and literature this weekend. But because she is my oldest and dearest friend, I trust that she will not judge me if I have my facts crossed, or if my thought processes continuously muddle into a non-sensical flap. And because she is my best friend, she absolutely understands what I mean. It's quite helpful to have someone know what you mean, when you can't make sense of it yourself. I think we are both at that age, holding our breaths, and waiting for it all to make sense. Does it ever?

Mia Doi Todd- La Vie En Rose (expired)
(This song is not from the movie, but I love it nevertheless. From the album, The Unaccompanied Voice.. so appropriate)

Superstar, You Are What You Say You Are

2008-01-03T12:57:00.002-05:00

Lupe Fiasco and Matthew Santos cross picket lines last night to drop this on the Late Show with David Letterman:

Letterman keeps calling him "Lupee." Maybe that's just the writers-solidarity beard muffling his speech. Anyway my sister watched it and said, "Wow, that Maroon 5 guy can get down." Come to think of it, Matthew Santos does bear a resemblence to Adam Levine. You think?

Catch Lupe on tour!
(New Yorkers, he'll be at Nokia Theatre on February 2nd.)

Lupe Fiasco ft. Matthew Santos- Superstar (link expired)
(Buy The Cool)

At The Start of the Morning

2008-01-02T07:57:00.000-05:00

Joy Denalane is one of those rare talents who is a little hard to define, but so easy to relate to and appreciate. Born to a South African father and a German mother, she grew up in Berlin and speaks fluent German, a mother-tongue she frequently sings in whether, expressing from what I gather is, relationship woes, or the situation in Soweto. Known also for collaborating on tracks with Common and Lupe Fiasco, you know the woman has a strong head on her shoulders too just by seeing the company she keeps.

Today however, I have been watching this music video for her song "Sometimes Love" non-stop all morning. She just makes me feel really good about myself, kind of the way Mary J. Blige or Jill Scott does, but without the obvious self-esteem/be a queen talk (which is great by the way, but not for this kind of day). I attribute the great feeling not only to the lomography, pin-hole camera aesthetics, which makes me feel like I'm watching someone's home movies, but also to the scene with the children in the day care center. Wouldn't you rather sit in a circle playing itsy bitsy spider instead of going to work? It is, just one of those days.

Start The Year With A Bang!

2007-12-26T01:10:00.001-05:00

The Canadians strike again! Don't worry, I still have a fond place in my heart for all that is good and true with Canadian music-- and I'm making room especially for this new chanteuse, Jane Vain. Accompanied by her band, The Dark Matter, what they do for unrequited love is sort of like what Emily Haines and The Soft Skeleton do my mental well being. Which kinda makes sense: Soft Skeleton! Meet Dark Matter! Oh, mind, body, and spirit. We are aiming for anatomical correctness here.

Catchy name aside, it doesn't hurt that this group is really, really good. Jane Vain, whose real name is Jamie Fooks was initially dissuaded from singing because of a bad experience at an open mic night, but with some encouragement, Fook banded with The Dark Matter and recorded their debut EP, "Love Is Where The Smoke Is," in her basement apartment over the course of the year. The ethereal smokiness in her voice and her downright captivating lyrics lend a geek-chic sexiness to the music.

They are slated for a Canadian tour starting in January. Is it too early to suggest an American tour? Please? New York welcomes you with open arms.

Jane Vain & The Dark Matter- C’mon Baby Say Bang Bang
(Listen to another track or pre-order the album here)

Coincidentally, I just re-watched Kill Bill 1 and 2, which featured this Nancy Sinatra classic. This too, is bangin’--

Nancy Sinatra- Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)
(Buy the Kill Bill vol 1 soundtrack)

Money Makes the World Go Round

2007-12-24T03:23:00.001-05:00

Christmas is just around the corner, and like most of America, I spent the last few weeks cramming shopping at the bustling malls, and waiting on long lines. This evening I turned on the TV and caught the middle of an interview with Benjamin Barber on Bill Moyers, and he was talking about capitalism, consumerism, and his book , Consumed. He’s an interesting fellow. I don't think he means to come across as patronizing, but I can understand how he could come off that way. Still he makes a compelling argument.

I haven’t read his book, but it did peak my interest. Do markets corrupt people? I don’t think it’s the market’s job to teach us about responsibility. I think it’s up to the people to decide for themselves what is socially responsible, and accept that we aren’t perfect, but we do the best we can. But the thing about that is, once you have enough citizens together who are demanding for social action, the ball really starts to roll. Like this whole green movement in recent years. Eat organic, wear bamboo, carry cloth totes. Spend your dollars on environmentally friendly goods.

The market gets its fingers dirty in that too as well. A famous starlet was seen carrying that “I’m not a plastic bag” tote which was then made available at Wholefoods and then the lines went crazy for those limited edition bags. And then I saw the knock off versions in Chinatown and it just didn’t sit right with me. I mean, this is New York-- knock offs are peddled on sidewalks with the same enthusiasm as hot dogs and roasted peanuts, albeit you probably wouldn’t buy peanuts from a dude who scatters the nuts on a blanket on Broadway and Prince St.

But since the goal of that “not a plastic bag” campaign is to get people to stop using plastic bags, is it, A) good that people want to be environmentally-aware, and the purchase of a fake with the slogan means more people will see the message, B) a little sad that consumers would resort to a fake when, let’s face, it, plain old cloth totes are cheap and readily available anywhere, and this is just another status piece, or C) all of the above?

Am I answering my own question?

Benjamin Barber was telling Moyer something to the extent of, “capitalism has failed us”, and the consumer marketing machine infantilizes adults into mindlessly droning, “I see, I want, I need.” Maybe. But getting back to the point of fake goods, if say, Gucci or Louis Vuitton sold bags that donated a hefty 50-75% of the profits of each sale to a good cause, would people think twice about buying knock-offs? Who knows? I think the problem is luxury brands are in the business of luxury, and not the business of charity. The world might be a better place if they met in the middle more often. But hey, like Lily Allen says, “that’s just the way the cookie crumbles.” And let's face it, they wouldn't be very good at their job if they constantly gave handouts. One day perhaps, we can fix that pesky job description Mr./Ms. Moneymaker.

I lost my point. Where was I? (I ramble!) Oh yeah, Christmas. So what can consumers do during the most wonderful time of the year? What we’ve always been doing: Save some, spend some, and give some away. All things in moderation. Have a very, merry Christmas.

Jesca Hoop- Money
(Buy the album: Kismet)

Papa don't preach

2007-12-20T13:05:00.001-05:00

I'm in trouble deep...

I know, I take a long hiatus, and this is the best I can come up with:

What's that Sofiblu said? "Babies are not like leggings!" Sad.

Word.

The Song that Pays, The Song that Stays

2007-12-10T17:47:00.001-05:00

These are some old songs that randomly shuffled onto a playlist. I forgot how much I loved the demo to The Strokes "You Only Live Once.” For all the shiny spirit of the album version, it’s still the demo I love best. I think I enjoy this afterthought bout of honesty from Julian Casablancas. Just tell it like it is, please.

Ten decisions shape your life,
you'll be aware of 5 about,
7 ways to go through school,
either you're noticed or left out,
7 ways to get ahead,
7 reasons to drop round,
when I said ' I can see me in your eyes',
you said 'I can see you in my bed',
that's not just friendship, that's romance too,
you like music we can dance to....
Why not try it all,
if you only remember it once...

Yes, why not try it all? Some days I just want to slow it all down. The album parties like a rock star, but the demo cleans up the dixie cups.

The Strokes- I'll Try Anything Once (demo)
(Purchase the 'Heart in a Cage' enhanced single)

The Strokes- You Only Live Once (album version)
(Purchase the album)