Category: listen up!

5SF: covers edition!

I had a crazy idea this week… why not do a five song Friday of nothing but covers?? Mostly, I was scratching my head trying to figure out what songs to post this week, especially since I have been listening to the same things over and over recently. Well, I flashed on the idea of a covers edition, and I thought, why not?? If you guys like it, I may do it again, but for now, let’s get to these fabulous cover songs, shall we?!?!

Adele – Make You Feel My Love
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_613_adele-makeyoufeelmylove.mp3]
(covering Bob Dylan)
To be totally honest, Adele was part of my decision to go ahead with the cover version of 5SF this week; her record came out FINALLY in the US this week, and I wanted to feature her to celebrate… but… I have featured her twice already, so I didn’t want to do too much. However, since she covers an AMAZING song on her record, I thought that this would be a perfect way to get some more time with Adele in, right? Right!! This cover of the Bob Dylan song is amazing. Garth Brooks also covered it, and his version is equally amazing; check it out if you haven’t heard it. As for Adele, get her CD already… it’s out now!

Whitley – Hyperballad
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_613_whitley-hyperballad.mp3]
(covering Bjork)
This is one of those songs that I randomly heard of a few months back, and for whatever reason, it sifted into the pile of music that I have been ignoring. Well, when I decided to do a covers week, I pulled this one back out, dusted it off, and low and behold, I LOVE IT!!! The original Bjork version is one of my favorite tracks of hers, and this one puts a totally different, but totally effective spin on it!! I love the acoustic nature that Whitley brings to a song that such a unique artist as Bjork penned. Great cover!

Robyn – Since U Been Gone
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_613_robyn-sinceubeengone.mp3]
(covering Kelly Clarkson)
Robyn’s super sweet poptastic cover of this song is just brilliant. It turns it from a pop-rock hit to a synth-driven pop anthem. I am not 100%, but this sounds like it may have been recorded live (which I am guessing because of a few minor glitches in the recording). I snagged this gem from Zeon’s fabulous music blog. I have heard a few covers of this fantastically written song before, but this one is my favorite. Robyn is the shit.

Tia Carrere – Ballroom Blitz
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_613_tiacarrere-ballroomblitz.mp3]
(covering The Sweet)
I FUCKING LOVE THIS SONG. I remember seeing Wayne’s World, and I was totally captivated by Tia Carrere wailing the shit out of this song, and I thought at the time that it was her song. After I found out it was a cover, I was a bit disappointed, because in my opinion, she FAR exceeds the original. Well, after playing Rockband recently with Brody and Aimee, and after playing this track in the game, I had to download this version, because I freaking love it. This is the perfect example of an awesome cover song; it’s better than the original!

The Cardigans – Iron Man
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_613_cardigans-ironman.mp3]
(covering Black Sabbath)
Now, I couldn’t pass up a chance to shill some love for my favorite band, the Cardigans. This cover of the amazing Black Sabbath song, shows how you can take something in a completely different direction, and still have it work. The sweet saccharine of this version is a STARK contrast to the thrashing guitars and dark vocals from Ozzy in the original track. For me, this song shows one of the many facets of the incredible talent the Cardigans have, and is one of the reasons they continue to be one of my favorites.

BONUS!!!
As a silly bonus this week, I thought I would include the video for the amazing Alanis Morissette’s version of My Humps, originally by the awful Black Eyed Peas. Her version is hilarious, and so much better than the original. The video is awesome too. I wanted to include it because Ms. Morissette had a CD come out this week as well; which has some pretty great, serious songs on it. This video just gets me laughing, because it shows that Alanis has a serious sense of humor!

Well, there you have it, hope you kids have a great weekend. Let me know what you think of this week’s songs!! Also, if you have any covers that you love, let me know about them; they may make future installments!

music thoughts

There have been a ton of records coming out lately, and a lot of them have been getting a lot of my attention. Since it is so freaking hot out, there is little to do but stay indoors and play some music, so I thought I would take the opportunity to talk about one of my favorite things on this very planet, and let you know what I think about the stuff I have been exposed to recently.

  • The new Death Cab For Cutie record, Narrow Stairs, gets incredibly better with each listen. I don’t quite know how that is possible, considering I really liked it from the first go. It is a contender for best album of the year; however I am still doubtful that it can topple the hold Robyn currently has on that spot.
  • Adele‘s record, 19, came out yesterday. It is brilliant, and you should buy it. A lot of people are going buggy over Duffy, and I hope that Adele steals a bit of that thunder; they are similar in style, but there really is no need to compete, as they are both really good at what they do. (I just prefer Adele’s record, that’s all.)
  • Listening to M83‘s record makes me want to dub them the Shiny Toy Guns of 2008; albeit, their record is definitely a softer, happier record (again, despite the macabre lyrics). It makes me want some new Shiny Toy Guns material, but also makes me happy that there are other bands out there making great electro-pop records.
  • I have listened to the upcoming Coldplay album, Viva La Vida or Death and all His Friends, several times, and dare I say it, but it is really good. In fact, I like it a lot. I never saw that one coming. Viva La Vida is also one of the best songs of 2008 so far. Wow, I never thought I would say any of the preceding, and it refer to Coldplay. 2008 has definitely been a strange year for music so far.
  • Speaking of strange things in music this year, I am taken aback by the number of bands of “yester-year” that are releasing great records; like B-52s, Portishead, and Cyndi Lauper. Also, Alanis Morissette‘s new record, Flavors of Entanglement came out this week, and it has some very good songs on it as well. Here’s the the resurgence of music from people that haven’t put out anything in a while, and them making triumphant comebacks!!! (And no, I didn’t forget about that great “Stamp Your Feet” record from Donna Summer… I am just letting it marinate, that’s all.)
  • Weezer‘s most recently released self titled (Red) album is definitely good as well. I am very happy with it. If you are a fan of theirs, you should like it too, because, well, you said you were a fan, and it is a pretty damn fine Weezer record. Jeez.
  • Last but not least, I have said it before, but I cannot CANNOT get enough of Lady Gaga‘s Just Dance. I really hope her record is as amazing as this song is. JUST DANCE! (I am honey!).

That was fun, wasn’t it? What did you think? Anything I am missing out on?

what do you have against gay people, Katy Perry?

If you don’t know who Katy Perry is, she is the chick that has made a hit out of kissing a girl (even though Jill Sobule did it many years ago, and unlike Perry, didn’t seem to have any issues with it) and then telling the world about it. As much as I wanted to like the song “I Kissed a Girl” (currently #2 on iTunes) by Perry, I initially didn’t feel like it was a good message. She sings about how it feels “wrong”, and even worse, she says that kissing girls isn’t what “good girls do”. However, after looking at the song from a different perspective, I figured that maybe she didn’t mean that at all; in fact, perhaps what good girls don’t do, is cheat on their boyfriends… and in that case, this song is playful, and not grounded in hate at all.

However (and a HUGE however), after checking her out further, and really trying to give her the benefit of the doubt with her “experimentation” with homosexual kissing, I found something that really makes me scratch my head and wonder if there is some problem that Katy has with gay people. She has a song called “Ur So Gay”, which has been called the “ultimate kiss-off” to a boy that was too “full of himself” to give her the time of day. In the song, she describes everything “wrong” with him, building to the conclusion that he must be gay, even though he doesn’t like boys (which, is the actual only ACCURATE use of the word gay… that which is glaringly absent from her song).

While many will see this accurately as a joke, the underlying message is too clear to ignore; Katy sees being gay as wrong, abnormal, and most importantly, as an insult that she uses to make herself feel better for being dissed. What’s wrong with that, some of you may wonder? Well, the underlying message is hate speech, and here again, I can’t believe that we have yet another example of someone using the description of a person’s sexual orientation as a slur of any kind.

Katy dear, this is 2008. We need to stop using gay as an insult; being gay is normal. If you use “gay” as synonym for bad, negative, horrible, stupid, or any of the many other derogatory words it has been used in place of to place insult, then you are propagating and continuing the underlying bigotry that is so fervent in this country. Continuing this form of “hidden” bigotry is just intolerable, and I for one feel like I must continue to speak out against it.

“Artists” like Katy Perry should be confronted with the fact that their “silly, harmless jokes” are grounded in hateful, shameful, and derogatory feelings that only further the bigotry against gay people in this country. It isn’t “cute” or “funny” that she kissed another girl, it is normal; whether or not she can deal with her homosexual feelings is her problem, not ours.

If you don’t see this as a big deal, ask yourself: would it be cute or funny if she wrote a song about how weird it was for her to kiss a black person?? How do you think that would that go over? Additionally, if she were to write a song about how awful a boy was because he was so “stereotypically black”, how would that sound? Well, I know how it would sound, in one word: RACIST. So I want to know why is it okay to apply that same sentiment to gay people?? Clearly, it isn’t, and I honestly can’t believe that this type of message is still put out there; yet here it is.

Shame on you Katy Perry. Grow up. Become more than that stereotypical playground bully. Gain some intelligence (clearly, that is lacking, because being gay means “liking boys” if you are male, and she doesn’t seem to put two and two together in her song) and perspective, and realize that, even in a “joking” manner, that using the term “gay” to insult someone is causing harm to the gay community in perpetuating the very hate and indifference we are fighting so hard to get rid of. I always cling to the hope that people can be better than they are, but it is people like Katy Perry that continually let me down. Unfortunately, there are people out there that are just waiting to gobble this crap up, and morons like Perry are ready to give them more. I have to ask myself, can there truly be a time when we can all stop the name calling, and just see each other as equal? Can their truly be a time when gay people can be treated as the normal people that we are, and not continually insulted and have our lifestyle continually used as a form of degradation? Little things like this really make me wonder if people are truly capable of that at all, unfortunately.

Sigh. Hopefully, she will fade into the distance soon, and people will rightfully forget about her ignorance; even though it is bound to pop up somewhere else.

5SF: june 6

I’m running against a deadline today; we are heading up to a secluded cabin for James’ 30th birthday this afternoon, so I am going to try and keep things short and sweet (hence the stripped down post for this week… but it’s about the music anyway, right?!?!). With that, let’s go!

Beth Rowley – Nobody’s Fault But Mine
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_bethrowley-nobodysfaultbutmine.mp3]
Wow. I mean seriously. I saw her CD recommended on amazon.co.uk, and after seeing her compared to Karen Carpenter, I knew I had to have it. I am glad that I snagged it too; this CD is pretty damn good. This song in particular shows her soul influence and makes for a fantastic ballad. I love the bluesy feel, and her old voice really compliments the lament of her realizing she made the mistake, and that she has to live with the consequences. Keep an eye on Beth Rowley, I have a feeling she is going to be pretty big.

M83 – Graveyard Girl
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_m83-graveyardgirl.mp3]
I know what you must be thinking, isn’t this the Cure?? Because I will admit, I got the same vibe! However, this group uses that influence to craft a great and enjoyable song (regardless of the pretty dark and macabre lyrics!!!), along with an album that truly makes you think of driving around in the summertime with the top back. Their album is a lot of fun, and I have been enjoying listening to it… this song is my favorite on the record so far.

Jennifer Hudson – Spotlight
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_jenniferhudson-spotlight.mp3]
This was a last minute choice on my part, because I didn’t hear this song until the other night. However, I have been a fan of Jennifer’s for a LONG time, and I have eagerly been waiting for her to finally release a record, and if this is what we have to look forward to, the wait has been worthwhile. This is a great mid-tempo R&B track that showcases her voice beautifully. I am eager to see what she has up next for us… Here’s hoping it is more goodness like this track.

Sam Sparro – Black and Gold

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_samsparro-blackandgold.mp3]
The first time I heard this song, I didn’t like it. I don’t know why, but I didn’t. However, I gave it another go after some recommendations, and I have totally turned around! This song is fun, danceable, catchy, and full of energy. Also, is it just me, or does anyone else hear the theme music from Ecco the Dolphin in the beginning??? Perhaps that is one of the other reasons I started loving it after a few listens? Either way, a great track with a definite nod to that 80s glam pop that seems to be coming back with a vengeance lately. Sam Sparro is indeed a great addition to pop, as he is correctly being touted.

Michelle Williams – We Break The Dawn
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_michellewilliams-webreakthedawn.mp3]
This song shocked me. This is not what I was expecting from the member of Destiny’s Child that clearly can’t dance (it’s okay Michelle, we still love you girl!). This song is club ready, and is a perfect track to begin the summer. There are a lot of crappy dance-type tracks that come out this time of year, but this one is fresh and fun. I hope that there is more of this up Michelle’s sleeve, because I am definitely paying attention to her now!

There you go, five fresh songs for this week! I hope that you enjoyed them!!! Let me know what you think, and have a great weekend!

5SF: may 30

Today’s five song Friday has a huge surprise from me… a song by a group that up until recently, I couldn’t stand at all. Seriously, the mere mention of their name made my skin crawl, and yet, they have released an AMAZING song that I tried to resist, but couldn’t. Also, I have a few songs that were recommended to me, so again, I really do value and appreciate all suggestions; most of them I really enjoy, and some I am elated to find out about! With that bit of titillation, let’s get to it, shall we?

Santogold – L.E.S. Artistes
I kept hearing how “amazing” Santogold is, and after many recommendations (thanks, y’all) in addition to that, I checked her out, and I must say that I am definitely impressed by this song. The song took me a while to get into, but I find myself enjoying it more with each listen. I really love the drumming, especially at about 2:30 in… I love a good beat. I wanted to include the video because it is one of those occasions where the video totally adds to the song; although, I don’t really know WHAT it adds other than visual entertainment. Nice song, and good recommendation.

Coldplay – Viva La Vida
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_530_coldplay-vivalavida.mp3]
Here’s the song I mentioned above, that comes from the group I couldn’t stand before today… before seeing those damn itunes commercials featuring Viva La Vida, I literally HATED Coldplay. Seriously. What is it about them that I hate? Perhaps the smugness of Chris Martin, and how it totally comes through in each of the songs that have FLOODED the airwaves for the past several years? (yeah, that’s it!) However, there is no denying that this song is pure genius. I will gladly consider myself a Coldplay fan for this song; it is catchy, brilliant, and begs to be played on repeat. Also, not really related to the song, but a note about one member of the band: Will Champion, the drummer, is smoking HOT. Seriously, I want to have lots of babies with him. Alright, I will stop drooling over Will, and drool over this song, because it too, is hot.

Cyndi Lauper – Rain On Me
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_530_cyndilauper-rainonme.mp3]
I don’t really like putting two songs by the same artist two weeks in a row (I like to keep things fresh, and mix things up a bit), but there are times when there are two really stand out tracks that just capture my attention, and beg to be shared. This is one of those times. I featured Cyndi’s club banger Into the Nightlife last week, but after giving the whole (pretty decent) record a listen, I stumbled on this fragile ballad near the end of the CD. I must say, that instantly, I got chills. This song is beautiful, gentle, and totally reminds me of some of her amazingly moving hits like True Colors. This song is quintessential Cyndi for me, and it is an amazing track that begs for much deserved attention. Cyndi, you clearly still have it honey, and I couldn’t be more proud of you.

Missy Higgins – Ten Days
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_530_missyhiggins-tendays.mp3]
Missy Higgins is one of those artists that most of you may not know about, but you really should. She is big in Australia where she is from, and has recently had a hit with Where I Stood (an emotionally driven amazing ballad that I featured a long time ago back when 5SF was just getting started). Since I got my ears pierced, I have been listening to radio on my computer a bit at work (when my ears hurt too much to continue using the torture devices also known as ear phones), and one site that I have been listening to is Pandora. The basic premise, is you enter an artist you love, and they play stuff that is similar. Well, this was one of the songs that they suggested to me, and it reminded me that I needed to get Missy’s first CD, because of how much I LOVE her most recent release, On a Clear Night. Well, after snagging her first album (that contains this track), I have realized how much I really do love this artist, and I just wanted to get some more out there about her. I am definitely impressed with both of her albums, and consider myself lucky to have found such an amazing artist for my music collection. This is a beautiful song, and is definitely indicative of what you can expect from the amazing Missy Higgins. Also, not to gush too much, but that violin riff is simply amazing.

Weezer – The Angel and The One
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_530_weezer-theangelandtheone.mp3]
It is with sheer excitement that I type these next words: Weezer’s new self titled album, or as it will affectionately be referred to because of previous self titled albums, the Red Album, hits stores on Tuesday. I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy, and this song is one of those songs that makes me wonder why so many “fans” gave up on Weezer after Pinkerton. If you aren’t familiar with Weezer’s history, Pinkerton was an amazingly candid and totally honest look into Rivers Coumo’s heart, and as such, it is one of the most beloved records by Weezer’s fans. However, maybe he felt that he said too much, and as such, has not shared as much depth, at that level, since (at least, many would agree that he hasn’t). Well, this song proves to me that Rivers is still the emotive boy that needs love and feels that love enough to put it into song; and proves that those “fans” shouldn’t have given up on this amazing band. I love Weezer, always have, and I am truly excited about the new album; and with tracks like this and the catchy as hell Pork and Beans, why not, right? Weezer is back for all those that thought they left, but those like me know that they never really went anywhere; they were just keeping the emotion in check.

Well, there’s your five songs for this final Friday of May, kids!!! Hope you enjoyed them!!! As always, let me know what you are listening to, and I hope everyone has a great weekend! We are off to the EABF tomorrow for a day of boozing… viva la beer! HA!

5SF: may 23

This has been kind of a weird week musically; I have been seriously listening to the same things lately, and that doesn’t leave much room for new stuff to creep in. As I mentioned MANY times, Lady Gaga’s Just Dance has been on serious repeat for me, and as a result, I have been shaking my booty and tapping my toes to this infectious song. However, I managed to get some choice cuts for this week, some old, some new, and a rare offering from me: a live performance. Now… without further adieu, here’s the goods:

Carrie Underwood – Pray For Time (live)
After seeing George Michael perform this AMAZINGLY on the Idol finale the other night, I really was hoping I could get his performance on iTunes, because it was seriously that damn good. Well, after talking with my buddy John about the show, he told me how Carrie Underwood had actually sang that same song a few weeks back during the Idol Gives Back; and that her performance WAS available on iTunes (heavy focus on WAS… I had to scrounge the internets to get it). Well, after one listen to her performance, I completely stand by my previous statement about her being an unstoppable powerhouse. Her version of the song may not be ‘better’ than George’s was the other night, but it is certainly nothing short of fantastic. Carrie, girl, you sure can sing, and you look amazing when you do it. Being able to sing live is a clear indicator of real talent (singing wise), and Carrie Underwood certainly brings the goods each and every time. As I mentioned above, it is rare for me to fall for a live performance, but this one is definitely worth falling hard for.

Sarah McLachlan – Blackbird
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_522_sarahmclachlan-blackbird.mp3]
A few weeks ago, Sarah released Rarities, B-Sides, and Other Stuff Vol. 2, which contained a bunch of songs that I didn’t previously have in my collection. Since getting the CD, I have been reminded of how much I love Sarah McLachlan, as well as how amazingly talented she is. This cover of the Beatles’ Blackbird is so beautiful and tender, that you can’t help but completely love it (at least, I can’t). I have been a huge fan of Ms. McLachlan for years, and looking back on her body of work, I can tell you that I will definitely remain a huge fan for years to come. I can’t wait for the next album.

Brian McFadden – Forgive Me Twice
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_522_brianmcfadden-forgivemetwice.mp3]
I posted another song by Brian a few weeks ago, but at that time, I was barely getting into the album, but I liked what I initially heard. After having some more time with the record, I discovered this amazingly beautiful song deeper into the album, and I have been playing it over and over ever since. Seriously, this song is so incredibly beautiful, and sad at the same time. When he says, “you know… I really love you”, you can’t help but believe it. Forgive him Delta!! He’s a keeper! (I think) Delta Goodrem sings backing vocals on the track, which, (if it really is her) makes this another great song that they have collaborated on. This album gets better with each listen, and is definitely far better than his first, in my opinion.

Cyndi Lauper – Into the Night Life
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_522_cyndilauper-intothenightlife.mp3]
This song totally took me by surprise. This is not what I was expecting for the former she-bopper; Ms. Lauper has given us a true club-ready hit. The similarities to Madonna’s Get Together are apparent for me, (probably because it was also penned by Swedish producer Peer Ã…ström) but I still think that it is different enough that at least I still consider it pretty fresh. I like this direction that the true color girl is going, and really like the how the club friendly sound fits her voice so well. I honestly never thought Cyndi would be on one of these weekly lists, but here she is, and with a great song to boot! Here’s to more great surprises, right?!?

The Ting Tings – Great DJ
The drums, the drums, the drums… I’m sorry, what were we talking about? Oh yeah!! This is one of those songs that initially, I want to HATE because of how annoying it should be, but, it crept its way into my brain, and I am fucking addicted to the Ting Tings. Seriously, this song is danceable, infectious, and is a total earwig. I considered posting this one a few weeks ago, but it didn’t hit me right away… however, since then it has steadily gained momentum, and now finds itself getting played more and more when I listen to my ipod. I wanted to post the video too, because, I don’t know if it is just me, but I think the guy in the group is kinda hot.

There we have it! Another Friday, another five songs, and another week on the books. I hope everyone is planning on some fun this weekend; I know we are heading up to the lake at least a couple of times. Plans to meet friends from out of town are also on the books. It should be a fun three day weekend! As always, I hope you enjoyed these songs, but don’t forget, that you can suggest songs for me to; and I encourage you to do so, too!

5SF: may 16

This has been kind of a weird week. Having my ears pierced has been a pretty big distraction, most importantly, with regards to my sleeping pattern. Even though I find myself a bit sleep deprived, and definitely worrisome about the healing process, I am glad that I got them done. I just hope they heal quickly, because I am honestly tired of tossing and turning all night, because I am not able to sleep on my ears. Weird.

Anyway… today is a bit all over the place. I have two last minute decisions, which is good, because I was having a hard time coming up with 5 songs for today as I have literally been listening to Death Cab For Cutie almost non-stop this week. Their new record is fantastical. Alright… now let’s get to the music we need to be concerned with today, shall we?

Lady GaGa – Just Dance
Damn, this song is hot. Sometimes, I hear a song, and something about that track instantly draws me in; and this is certainly one of those tracks. I think the video is quite funky (hello 80s!), and it also makes it clear that Lady GaGa is obsessed with making herself into a Kylie Minogue record cover (a pose off!). This is one of those songs that makes you want to hear more from the artist. I am very curious to find out if there are other possible gems like this one hiding up Lady GaGa’s sleeve. To be honest, I wasn’t planning on including this song for this week’s five song Friday, because I didn’t hear this song until last night for the first time! However, at the last minute, I decided that it is too fresh not to put it in the mix this week. I hope you enjoy this song as much as I do… I have a feeling it will get a lot of play from me in the coming weeks. Just dance… OKAY!

Rihanna – Take A Bow
After this song was suggested by Steve, I did check it out (see, I do take your suggestions!), and I found myself liking it, but not loving it. However, when I saw the video, I think that it gelled for me; Rihanna is gorgeous, and seeing her sing adds to her voice even more (also, is it just me, or does anyone else get the baby dyke vibe from her in this video?? Looking sexy!). I have tried to resist the force that is Rihanna in the past, but with Good Girl Gone Bad, there is just no reason to put up a fight anymore… it is clear that there is something special about her. Great production to the songs that are being chosen for her (or by her?) is only going to help in propelling her career even further into the stratosphere. This single just shows that there is no stopping this chick, so we had better get used to having her around. I will note that this song was produced by the same folks that did that Chris Brown knock off that I wrote about a few weeks ago, and that it is just different enough (they seem to love that same sound), that I can get into it. It shows that you can use similar elements and still get me on board, but they can’t be so similar that they are actually the same, dig?

P!nk – Nobody Knows

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_516_pink-nobodyknows.mp3]
This beautiful ballad comes off of Pink’s 2006 release, I’m Not Dead. I was listening to XM recently, and this song came on, and it reminded me of how great that album really is. This song is definitely one of the best tracks on the record; if not the best one. It was nice to hear this song and be reminded of a record that made my 2006 list, but one that I haven’t listened to in a while. I always love being reminded of something great that doesn’t get enough attention in my music collection.

Death Cab for Cutie – Grapevine Fires
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_516_deathcabforcutie-grapevinefires.mp3]
After such a glowing endorsement of Death Cab’s new record, I found myself hard pressed to find a favorite song out of the lot. I literally love each track on the record, and each have their own nuances that make me like them. However, for whatever reason, this song stands out just enough, that I wanted to include it this week. If you are a fan of Death Cab’s earlier work, I am curious to hear what you think of the new record. I think that it takes elements of Transatlantacism, and builds on them; without abandoning their trademark Death Cab sound. Perhaps that is why I fell instantly in love with the record (well, that, and the fact that it is simply an amazing album)… either way, let me know what you think, Death Cab fans, won’t you?

Augustana – Fire
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_516_augustana-fire.mp3]
Finally, another song that has fire in the title!! That wasn’t a conscious choice. I have been listening to Augustana’s most recent release, and I find myself enjoying it MUCH more than their debut. Perhaps I was put off by their first single (which I was), but I have had more enjoyment with their new record. There are a few ballad-y type songs that stand out to me, and this one just screams at me. I love how his voice waivers when he gets to the chorus, showing some emotion that was strong enough to prevent it from being smoothed out during production. Sometimes it is small flaws that really make something worth listening to. Also, the note that he holds at the end of the song is impressive.

Well, there they are kids, your five songs for this Friday. Hope that you enjoyed each one as much as I did bringing them to you. Hope everyone has a great (and hopefully, it will FEEL long) weekend as well.

ear plugs and narrow stairs

So I have been thinking about doing it for a long time, because I think that ear plugs look incredibly hot on guys, but recently, I have been thinking more and more seriously about it. Well, a friend of mines family came into town not too long ago, and her nephew had plugs, and for whatever reason, that made the interest go WAY up. I felt like I HAD to get them.

Well, cut to yesterday… I got them. I got my ears pierced yesterday at the Piercing Experience in Inman Park, and except for the pain of having your ear jabbed with a big needle, I couldn’t be happier. Brian, the piercer at PE was AMAZING. Totally gentle, and extremely kind. Seriously, if you want ANYTHING pierced, I would not recommend anyone else; he was extremely awesome with my piercings. I am not going to lie and say that it didn’t hurt, but it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be (I guess). I am glad that it is over, and the healing can begin. I have already picked out some great stone plugs for when I get all healed up, but until then, I am rocking some clear glass, and I have to say, that they are quite fetching.
in the right!in the left!
I can’t believe I went through with it, to be honest, but now that I have them, I am totally loving them. Getting pierced at a big gauge (6g!!!) was a bit intimidating, but Brian at PE made it as good of an experience as I think that it could have been. I am so glad I went there.

On a completely different note (no pun intended), I have been listened to the new Death Cab for Cutie album, Narrow Stairs,NON-STOP since I got it yesterday. I don’t know why, but this album gelled with me instantly, and I love each and every song. It is a LITTLE different from the last album, Plans, but I feel a lot of what they were doing on Transatlantacism coming through on this new record. As always, Ben Gibbard’s sweet and endearing voice takes you through each track, weaving a journey of stories, all set to incredible music. So many of his “one liners” really get me, like when he simply, and heart wrenchingly states that “you can do better than me, but I can’t do better than you”. That is the shit that I swoon over, seriously. I have not found one song on this record that I have any negative thoughts about; even the 8 minute “I Will Possess Your Heart” has truly grown on me. I think it was brilliant of them to release it as a single, as it really got me ready for this record. Narrow Stairs is another amazing record from one of my favorite bands, and a record that is sure to make my year end list. This record reminded me of something awesome; records like Narrow Stairs are the reason I can still get excited about going out and buying CDs. This album gets an enthusiastic 5 stars from this blogger… do yourself a favor and pick it up!

5SF: may 9

This week has been rather mellow, it is honestly weird to have so many tests and deadlines in one week, and then the next week; literally nothing. Oh well… I have been enjoying the down time, and I have surprisingly been sucked into Mario Kart. Seriously, it is really, really fun; even though I am not terribly good at it. I think it is the little wheel that makes it fun. Other than Mario Kart, I have been enjoying the new albums by Jesse McCartney (which leaked recently), Dave Barnes (which is the only album I have ever bought on iTunes), Brian McFadden (which leaked recently), and yup, I am still jamming to Mariah’s great record.

So… now that I have pretty much let the cat out of the bag as to what to expect this week, why not just give you the goods?? Okay, here we go!

Jesse McCartney – Not Your Enemy
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_509_jessemccartney-notyourenemy.mp3]
First of all, I was very nervous about listening to this record when it leaked, because of how much I have been enjoying the hit Leavin’ (seriously… I have been playing it on repeat I love it so much). However, I have been pleasantly surprised by Mr. McCartney, because minus two songs, his album is actually a pretty brilliant pop record. The songs are catchy, with great beats, and most of them are really great pop songs that could be singles of their own. This song stands out, because of how melodic and beautiful it is. In the beginning, it reminds me a lot of Will Young, but then builds into a great ballad that McCartney can call his own. I really like what he did with this record, and will not be surprised if he has some success with it; it is a really good pop effort from the former teen star.

Ryan Adams – La Cienga Just Smiled
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_509_ryanadams-laciengajustsmiled.mp3]
This is one of those songs that I discovered from one of my favorite shows, Felicity, because it was featured many times during tender moments on the show. I have to say, that this song reeled me in a way that few can, and it still remains one of my favorite songs of all time. This is one of those songs that I can bet, that if life had a soundtrack, it would be somewhere on it. There are so many moments that this song would be totally appropriate if it were playing in the background; which is probably why they used it so much on the show. This is my “blast from the past” song this week, and it is a song that I am glad to have “rediscovered”, as I love it so much. Fantastic songs like this don’t come around that often, and when they do, I tend to cling to them… and this is one that I could never let go of.

Dave Barnes – On a Night Like This
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_509_davebarnes-onanightlikethis.mp3]
This record really surprised me. I heard the song “Until You”, and thought that it was pretty good. I even bought the album from iTunes, because it was only $5.99, and figured that I would listen to it a few times, because I liked what I heard. What I didn’t think, was that I would really enjoy this album as much as I have. Dave Barnes is a lot like John McLaughlin mixed with Marc Broussard. The result is pretty damn good. This piano-driven rock is totally the stuff I swoon over, and this ballad is no different. His emotion comes through in the vocals, and totally has me weak in the knees. Great song, from a great album. I am glad that I discovered him.

Brian McFadden – Twisted
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_509_brianmcfadden-twisted.mp3]
I bought Brian’s first album, which came out a few years ago, because I had to support the first solo effort from an ex-Westlifer. However, I will admit that it wasn’t exactly what I was expecting (as it was really, really dark), and as such, I didn’t listen to it as much as I probably should have. When I randomly saw that he was releasing a new record, I was definitely still interested in seeing what he could do (because the first record was good, albeit dark), and so I snagged a leaked copy. Instantly, I fell in love with this track, which is the first on the record. I hope that he releases this as a single, because it is fun, dancey, and upbeat (all things that were lacking on his previous effort). I have been enjoying the majority of the CD, and I am glad he is back. This song is a lot of fun, and one that I am glad to have found.

Mariah Carey – I’ll Be Lovin’ U Long Time
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_509_mariah-illbelovinulongtime.mp3]
Finally today, I wanted to come back around to Mimi, because I have surprisingly been enjoying her most recent album, E=MC2 A LOT. I am continually surprised by how much I like it, because it isn’t my usual fair when it comes to the type of music I generally like (way more RnB and way more hip hop than I usually go for). However, I have to hand it to Mariah, she has truly proven herself to be a real, tried and true diva, and with this record, I will bet that she gains tons of fans; it is fantastic. This song is my favorite from the record, and is one that I find myself skipping to over and over. I can practically guarantee, that if Mariah decides to release this as a single, that it will kill the charts. This song is fucking pure gold. Mariah, get your Grammy acceptance speech ready, sweetie; I see more statues in your future!

Well, there you have it… another five song Friday, and I hope that you enjoyed the tracks I picked for this week. Let me know what you are listening to, because I am chomping at the bit to stay ahead of the curve, and continue to find new and fantastic music. Help me out, won’t you?!?!

green tea heaven

I have found it; today, I had the best green tea frozen yogurt I have ever tasted. After lunch at Doc Chey’s, my buddy Deb and I wandered over the Yoforia to sample the “Italian frozen yogurt”, and after a small sample of the green tea flavor, we eagerly decided that is what we should get. They offer lots of different types of toppings, but to be totally honest, this frozen yogurt is so amazing, that it didn’t need anything… but a spoon and a mouth to put it in.

After I finished what I am now dubbing the “best green tea ice cream I have ever had”, I really wanted more. I love this place, Yoforia, and I will definitely be requesting future trips for more of this delectable treat. Perhaps the best thing about the sinful treat, is that it is totally fat free (!!!!!), and, totally organic. Can we say LOVE??? Yeah, love is officially spelled Y-O-F-O-R-I-A today folks… I seriously am considering going back again later tonight!!! I also totally love the decor in this place, it is very futuristic, with lots of orange. I loved the orange counters and the glass tiles in the bathroom. I want them for my house.

Now I have to see how I can convince Deb to go there after lunch (or before!??!?!) again tomorrow!!! YUM!

On a totally unrelated note; I finally uploaded a bunch of my Sara Bareilles pictures. I must say, that I got some AMAZING shots, so please, do me a favor, and go and check them out. Let me know what you think; I had a great time photographing the show, and I am definitely loving my new camera! More to come!!