Category: music musings

5SF: february 8

It’s finally Friday, and it’s time for some tunes, right? This week, we have 4 tracks from female singers, and I realize that I seem to prefer female vocalists over anything else, for whatever reason. Also, at least a couple of these tracks are “rare” tracks that are either internet finds, or bonus tracks from international editions of that artist’s CD. Also, this week, we will have two flashback tracks, one from a sort of recent favorite film of mine, and one from a lot further back, so sit tight, and let’s get this party started.

Sara Bareilles – Any Way the Wind Blows

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_208_sarabareilles-anywaythewindblows.mp3]
First up today is the amazing and beautiful Sara Bareilles, who readers of this blog know that I totally adore. I have been having such a great time watching her get loads of deserved attention these past couple of months, and have been playing close attention myself to iTunes and the blogs, as they keep offering up new live material for me to devour. The song was apparently a bonus track on an Asian release of Little Voice, and I am so glad that I found it, because like the rest of the record, it is fantastic. I bought tickets to see Sara in March earlier this week, so I felt it fitting to show some more love for the fabulous Ms Bareilles in this week’s five song Friday. Seriously, it is hard not to feature her every week; she is certainly one of my favorite artists.

Sia – The Girl

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_208_sia-thegirl.mp3]
It seems that people are foaming at the mouth of Sia lately; you can’t walk into a Starbucks without seeing her new CD on display. Also, I have heard that song Day Too Soon all over XM, and quite enjoy her myself. However, I think that this is by far my favorite song from the record, which I like, but just can’t get that into for whatever reason. Also, I can’t help but think of the amazing Nicole Atkins when I hear Sia, because their voices have a very similar quality to them. I am definitely glad to see an out singer getting some attention here in the states, and it seems that there is no end to the great music coming from down under. This is such a fun track, and I just love the blaring horns, don’t you?!

Lily Allen – Mr Blue Sky

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_208_lilyallen-mrbluesky.mp3]
Oh Lily! I have adored Lily Allen for quite a while now, and highly regret not hearing her CD before the end of 2006, because it would have surely made my best of 2006 list; it is fantastic. I saw her in concert early last year, and I feel like that was what really got me to fall head over heels with Lily. She is fantastic. When I saw this song offered on one of my regularly read mp3 blogs, I jumped at it, and as it turns out, I fucking LOVE it. I hope that this is a taste of what she will be bringing on her next CD; which I hope she will get out sometime in the near future (I know she is working on a show, but I hope that she has time to record as well). I have said it, but I’ll say it again, I totally adore Lily, and this is a great song to add to her already impressive arsenal of songs in my music collection.

Heart – Crazy On You

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_208_heart-crazyonyou.mp3]
First off, is there anything better than that opening guitar sequence? Um… yeah, amazing. I picked Guitar Hero back up this week after a little hiatus, and I am glad that I did, I have been having fun with it all week. I have also been listening to some of my favorite songs from the games (I have 4 in all), and one of my favorites by far is Crazy on You by the AMAZING Heart. Seriously this song is fucking ROCK. I can listen to it on repeat, and it strengthens that part of me that wants to rock out in a band someday. If only I could be 1/10 the badass that Ann Wilson is. Damn. Love this song!

Hedwig and the Angry Inch – Origin Of Love

Finally today, is the amazingly well written Origin of Love from one of my favorite movies of all time, Hedwig and the Angry Inch. I randomly put on the soundtrack earlier in the week, and ended up watching the movie again last night for the first time in ages. I was reminded by how amazing this movie is, and how much I love the music from it. It is such a great movie, and the songs are just fantastic. Even if you aren’t a fan of musicals, I think that anyone would love Hedwig. I had the chance to see it performed a while back, and that made me officially a fanatic of the lady with the feathered bangs. Seriously, what’s not to love? This song is just fucking beautiful; as are many others in the film. NOTE: A word of caution about this video, it is pulled from the movie, and at the VERY beginning, there is some shouting from Hedwig’s mom, so turn down the speaker for a second or two. Also, there is a little cartoon-udity, which I don’t really think is offensive, but if that isn’t your thing, just heads up.

Well, there you go; my five songs for friday. I hope that everyone is having a great afternoon, and as always, let me know what you are jamming to… share and share alike I always say! Have a great weekend!

flashback to pop greatness

So I missed the Superbowl last night because I was caught up in a 7 hour study session for my Anatomy test (yikes!), but I did manage to catch a recap of the FANTASTIC performance Paula Abdul gave before the show via youtube (thanks to discopop for the heads up):


Let me just say this now, THIS performance is how you bring a fucking comeback. Paula has been out of the music scene for over 10 years, and here she is, tearing it up again. Whether or not you were a fan of Paula back in the day, there is no denying that she had a bevy of hits in her hay day, and it is safe to say, that this new song should be a hit for her as well. The song is catchy, and perfect for her. As she says at the end of the video, and I couldn’t agree with her more, the timing definitely was right.

Congratulations, Ms. Abdul, great show. Truth be told, I always knew she had it in her; I love me some Paula Abdul, and I always have. The first CD I ever bought was Paula Abdul: Shut Up and Dance! The Remixes. Embarrassing? Maybe… but there’s no denying that in her prime, the lady definitely had a knack for pop. I am just glad that her comeback single is such a good one. I wonder where she will go with this… a full album? Who knows… all I know, is that if Randy Jackson had this up his sleeve, I hope that she stays with him for the duration. Paula, you are definitely, forever my girl.

5SF: february 1

Welcome to this week’s installment of the five song Friday, everyone! Today is going to feature songs you may be familiar with, songs that you may have heard a while ago and forgotten about, a song that you may hate (as I did when I first heard it), and maybe some songs that you are hearing for the first time. So let’s get to it, shall we?

Yael Naim – New Soul
First up today is a song that is as catchy as hell, from those new Mac Air ads by Paris-born/Israeli-raised singer Yael Naim. The main reason I wanted to feature this song, is because there are many of us that have tivos and DVRs out there that never get the chance to watch commercials, and as such, may miss great songs like this one. Personally, this song was recommended by one of you (my wonderful readers!), who told me that I might like it; and you know what, he was right! I do (thanks for the suggestion, see, I told you I want to know what you are listening to!)! Another reason for posting this one, is because the video is just awesome, and I totally love it. Such a catchy song, and a great video, paired with an Apple endorsement? Yael is going places, people! Who’d of thought before Feist, that we would be looking to Apple for new, great music? Well, now we know that they are onto something!

Candie Payne – One More Chance
In this current era of music, the throwback sound seems to be the “next biggest thing”, with artist after artist streaming that sound of old, and making it new. Such is the case with Ms Candie Payne, who uses those old influences, and Mark Ronson beats, to churn out this fabulous song. I have certainly been enjoying this reemergence of the “throwback sound”, and the more artists that jump on this band wagon that are doing it as well as Candie are, the happier I am destined to be. Also, take note that her look is very “That Girl”-ish, adding to the hip, vintage feel… it’s a great song, and great video.

Linda Kiraly – Can’t Let Go
I was trying to decide between this one and another song for this week, and I watched this video again, and it struck me much harder than it ever has before. This song is fantastic. Linda has a beautiful and powerful voice, and the beat makes for a perfect pop song. The beginning is a little slow (perhaps the reason that I wasn’t hit as hard the first time I heard it), but at 40 seconds into the video when she stomps on those drums, you get to see why you came out to the show. This is her first single from an upcoming album, and I cannot wait to see what else she has up her sleeve. My buddy Stu always has these random acts up his sleeve, and I just love it when he let’s me in on the goods; especially when they are as good as this!

Patrick Wolf – Accident and Emergency
Now, for the ultra-queer Patrick Wolf, who I totally flash on the beginnings of Ziggy Stardust, and queer glam rock when I see him. I will admit this openly, I HATED this song when I first heard it. I don’t know what it was about it, but it was just a huge turn off for me. However, it got into my head, and I gave it another go, and after a few listens, I really like it. The other day when I was waiting for jury duty, I ended up listening to his record, and I really liked a lot of it, whereas previously, I was wondering why so many people were into him. Was he to be another Roisin Murphy for me, I thought? Well looking now, I figure, perhaps not… I am glad that I gave it another go, because it is quite the catchy little hit. I highly recommend you give this more that one listen; it took me several to get into it, but now I quite like it.

The Darkness – I Believe In a Thing Called Love
Last, but certainly not least, is my “blast from the past” track for this week. I have to say, that I still remember the first time I heard this song; it was 3 in the morning, and my tivo started randomly taping an MTV video show (shock and awe! They were showing videos!), and the video for this song came on. I sat there, mesmerized, and completely freaked out at the same time. What the fuck? I thought. After it was over, I rewinded it, and ended up watching it 5 times. I was hooked. I haven’t listened to the Darkness in a while (their debut CD is quite fantastic), and this song came on XM the other day, and I ran home and put it back on my ipod (it was lost when iTunes decided to delete all my playlists a while back). Well, I am glad that I was reacquainted with the fabulousity that is the Darkness… their queer glam metal is pure music gold. I am such a closet metal lover, and this shit is just the type of thing that blows my skirt way up over my head. This is metal that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and in fact, makes fun of itself all at the same time. If only it were on one of the Guitar Heroes… perhaps maybe a future installment will include this gem! I certainly hope so, because this song is fantastic.

Well, there she is, this week’s 5SF is on the books. I hope that everyone found something that they could enjoy. As always, let me know what you are into, it may make a future list! Have a great afternoon, kids!

5SF: january 25

Guess what today is, kids!! It’s mothafucking Friday, and time to bring on the jams! What!?! Yeah, I am in a weirdly good mood today, but I have chosen to go with it, so I think that you should too. Let’s get to the music before things get out of hand.

Adele – Chasing Pavements
You may be thinking, Adele? Again? and you know what, you would be right. Adele is infectious. She is amazing. She is true talent, and her CD comes out this Tuesday in the UK, so I felt compelled to bring her to the forefront again. I have been enjoying my time listening to Adele this month, and I have to say, with each listen, I love her more. Fuck the haters that are bashing her (seriously, people are giving her shit for only debuting at number 2 on the singles chart… give me a break), this girl has a voice that is stunning, and weaves these amazing songs that capture your attention and leave you wanting more. This song, Chasing Pavements, is one of those songs that I just cannot let go of, and after a listen, it just stays with me all day. This is truly a wonderful song, and a reminder to pay attention to Adele; I have a feeling we are going to be hearing a lot more from her once the CD hits shelves on Tuesday. Also, this video is quite weird, but I like the quirkiness of it.

Bush – Swallowed

After posting two of my high school favorites (Elastica and Blur) last week, I got to thinking that it might be fun to feature at least one song every now and then, that I randomly heard recently, and was reminded of how much I loved it in the past. This week, Swallowed came on the radio, and I was all “holy shit I love this effing song, and I can’t believe I haven’t heard it in forever!”, and so, here it is. Whatever happened to Bush? Their first and second CDs were dynamite albums, and then I pretty much stopped paying attention. Oh well, at least we have the memories, right?

Kate Miller-Heidke – Mama

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_125_katemillerheidke-mama.mp3]
I heard about Kate on one of those many, many “ones to watch out for” lists that I randomly found on the internets, and after checking her out, I can see why she made that list; this girl is great! She reminds me a little of Regina Specktor, but with more spunk and panache to her sound (also, without that unnecessary double scoop of goody-two-shoes bubblegum flavoring). I chose this song, not because it is the catchiest from her record, but because it totally captivates me every time I hear it. I am drawn in by her desire to please her mother, which totally translates beautifully in this song, by the brash guitars and the shrill vocals. Love this song, and love her!

Georgie James – Cake Parade

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_125_georgiejames-cakeparade.mp3]
So, I heard about Georgie James from a flickr friend, who recommended it in the Monday music suggestion group, and I must admit, that I was instantly enamored with this song. It is so playful and enjoyable, that it really reminds me of the fun I have listening to artists like MIKA and Fountains of Wayne. Also, the guy in the group totally sounds like the guy from Fountains of Wayne, so that probably has something to do with it reminding me of them. Either way, definitely a fun group with a great “throw back” almost vaudeville-ish sound, that I am totally into. A great suggestion from my friend, that I am pleased to pass on to you!

Number One Gun – The Best of You and Me
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_125_numberonegun-thebestofyouandme.mp3]
This is one of those songs that I heard of randomly, and was instantly all about. I saw Number One Gun mentioned somewhere, and I liked the cover of the album, so I went to their myspace, and The Best Of You and Me was the song that started playing. I instantly downloaded the album, and have been really grooving to this electro-rock piece. It has a mellow feel, but powerful male vocals really make it a great pop song.

Well, there we have another five song Friday in the books, and some good songs to listen to this afternoon. I hope that everyone is having a kick ass day, and I hope that your weekend is even better. As always, let me know what you are jamming to, and we can make this music suggestion thing a two way street, cool?

5SF: january 18

TGIF is an understatement, and I am very pleased that this is a three day weekend for sure. With that said, let’s get to some music to brighten our afternoon, shall we?

Goldfrapp – A&E
First up, is the new song A&E by Goldfrapp; a decidedly different song from their previous effort. Going back to their more acoustic roots, Goldfrapp has managed to captivate me with this airy and beautiful song. While I have been spinning the whole album this week, this song definitely stands out to me, and makes me want to listen more intently to the rest of the record. I will personally admit that I like this new stuff better than their previous experiments in the more electro-pop stuff. I think that they got tired of everyone copying their sound, and went back to their roots; and the result is something beautiful for sure. Take note that this video is completely ridiculous.

Elastica – Connection
Earlier this week, I was listening to the lovely XM radio in the car (something I have been doing more frequently these days), and I was hit square in the jaw by a fantastic blast from the past. Coming through my speakers was the delightful, yet forgotten Elastica, a group that I so instantly fell in love with in high school. As soon as I got home, I downloaded their self titled debut, and relived a music moment that I hadn’t experienced in well over a decade. The best part, was that their songs are still as good to me as they were then. Needless to say, this blast from the past was more than welcome, and as you will see a bit further down, it inspired more glimpses into my music history. Note: I was going to post the actual video, but the audio is shit, so if you want to go and see it (it’s quite good), you can go and see it here; after all, this is five song Friday, not five video Friday, right?.

Christina Aguilera – Save Me From Myself

A lot of people really loved Back to Basics, but for me, it was just hard to get into, and as such, it was largely ignored. I liked the singles, especially Ain’t No Other Man, but that’s about as far as I went. Then, the other day, I was reading my blog-feeds, and Rich over at fourfour posted this amazing video. I didn’t even know it was on B2B, and I feel like I have been missing out of something really beautiful. This song is so touching, heartfelt, emotional, and beautiful. Christina has made a very mature and wonderful song with Save Me From Myself, and I am just happy that Rich showed me the light. This song only gets better with each subsequent listen. Bravo, Xtina. Bravo. Also, is it me, or is she more stunning than ever?

Blur – Parklife
After snagging Elastica’s debut, I was instantly craving a little more brit-rock from my past, and what better way to get that going, than to pull out my old Blur records and give them a go? While I have always loved Blur, and even consider them amongst my favorite groups, over the years, I have drifted away from listening to Parklife; which ironically, was the record that got me interested in them in the first place. With my nostalgic cap firmly on, I sat back and hit play, and was instantly reminded just how brilliant of a record Parklife truly is; and I was reminded of why I fell in love with Blur in the first place. While the title track isn’t my absolute favorite song from the record, it is the first Blur song I ever heard, and I felt it fitting to highlight it in my collection of songs this week. It has been really nice reminiscing about music, and tuning into stuff that I haven’t listened to in ages. Who knows what else will creep its way back onto my radar; I can’t wait to see what it will be!

Roisin Murphy – Let Me Know
There are heaps of Roisin lovers out there, and I have never really gotten it; her whole kit and caboodle it’s a little too much for me. That being said, after I saw her record making a lot of people’s best of 2007 lists, I pulled it back out, dusted it off, and gave it another go. I wasn’t really that into it this time either (sorry, it just isn’t my bag, y’all), but this song definitely stood out to me this time. It just makes me want to dance all night long. I think the reason that I really love this song, is that it sounds a little more like a Sophie Ellis-Bextor track, and gets away from the things that turn me off about Roisin. That being said, here you go, fans of Roisin, this is the song by her that I can definitely say that I actually really, really like. Some think that she can do no wrong, but so far, this is the only thing that she has done right for me.

Well, that does it kids, another five song Friday on the record and in the bag. I hope everyone has an amazing weekend, and does lots of great and exciting things. I also hope that you enjoyed the music on this very welcomed Friday, and as always, let me know what you are spinning. I have gotten some great suggestions lately, and I always want more, more, more! Till we meet again!

there’s differing music tastes, and then there’s…

Okay, so I may be the only one that doesn’t “get it”, but is M.I.A (and other artists like her… are there any?) serious? I wonder this, because her second CD was recently listed as the number one of the year by Rolling Stone magazine. Seriously? Have they heard it? Because every single thing I have heard from her is truly awful. When I first heard of her a couple of years ago, I seriously thought that it was a farce; I thought that she was doing an act, and sounding like shit was the punchline (or worse: is she making fun of the cultural music that she is so poorly imitating?). I am further convinced that it is all one big joke, by the amazing eye-raping that you get when you go to her website (don’t say I didn’t warn you. ouch!). What freaks me out the most, though, is that regardless of whether or not she is doing this seriously, is that people really see it is something great. I just don’t understand it. Am I missing something?

I wonder this, because my taste in music varies widely; I love folk, pop, rock, jazz, hip hop, dance, and to be quite frank, I would say that I can find something that I like in practically (not really much in the realm of rap) every genera of music. Sure, there is a lot of stuff out there that I don’t like, which is natural, and usually, I can see why someone else might like it, where I do not. That being said, rarely do I think to myself, “now how on earth could ANYONE listen to this, it’s awful!”, when I hear something. Usually, I just think, “well, that’s not for me; it sounds pretty bad to me“. On those rare instances where I do have the first thought, the accompanying music almost always comes from a completely obscure artist, and not from someone that would ever make a end of the year top albums list. Also, said artist that freaks me out by their awfulness, usually has no redeemable songs that would ever make me think otherwise; I try to give everything a chance, and sometimes, more than one chance.

Take LCD Soundsystem for instance. I LOVE that song Tribulations. It is fucking amazing. It blew my mind when I heard it, and I literally played it on repeat like 67 times in a row. However, the rest of the stuff that they have isn’t my cup of tea; in fact, to me, most of it is quite bad. Yet, they tend to be heralded in a similar way that M.I.A. is. However, the praise that is heaped on them makes more sense to me, because of the redemption that comes from that song Tribulations, because I can see the brilliance in it.

M.I.A. has no redemption for me; there is nothing that I have heard from her that could be considered good. In fact, there isn’t anything from her that I even consider to be serious; like I said, I sincerely think the whole thing is a farce. Yet, I know people that love her, and heap praise on her. I. Just. Don’t. Get. It.

Perhaps, one day, she will come out and say that this whole thing truly is a farce, and will get a big laugh at those that fell so hard for her. If that did happen, that could be my redemption for M.I.A. Until that time comes (which isn’t likely, because she is probably serious), I will still be standing here, scratching my head, wondering how in the hell people consider that good, let alone good music.

Are there any artists out there that make you scratch your head, wondering what in the hell other people hear, when all you hear is a complete offense on the eardrum? I can’t be alone in my thinking here. Thoughts?

L5P photo stroll and exploring new music this weekend



bike secured, originally uploaded by duanemoodydotcom.

Yesterday, I finally got my trusty DSLR out and finally took some new pictures. Deb, Tina, and I went down to the always interesting Little Five Points, and I took about 200 pictures. Look for them to pop up slowly on flickr over the next few weeks; I don’t want to run out of new pictures to post by dumping them all on at once!!

I hope that everyone is having a great weekend. I have been listening to new music by Goldfrapp, Sia, and the pop-trashy Marie Picasso. Exploring new music can definitely take you down some interesting avenues. I really like Sia’s new CD, but it really reminds me of Nicole Atkins, only way more mellow. I have to say, that it made me want to listen to Nicole; which I promptly did. Man, music sure can be fun, can’t it?

Anywho… hope everyone’s Sunday goes by very slow… Monday is never a fun time!

5SF: january 11

Sorry for the late post today, kids… I have been in bed all day; called out sick with a head cold. No bother, I am feeling better, and well rested. So let’s get to it then, shall we? Quickly though; today’s my Grandma’s birthday… happy birthday Grandma!

Klaxons – Golden Skans
This is one of those songs that a lot of people instantly loved, and couldn’t get enough of; but not me. I just couldn’t get into it, even after several listens, but recently, I heard it again, and BAM, it was stuck in my head; and this time, I loved it. Sometimes, songs are like that, aren’t they? Well, this one is excellent, and totally reminds me of Blur (so I don’t know why I didn’t like it before…). Either way, this video is amazing: naked boys dressed in only ribbons, jumping about in slow motion, while throwing handfuls of glitter and smashing glass orbs. Now, that’s a damn video. I was late to the show on this one, but now I am dancing in the front row like everyone else. Beware: the course is insanely catchy, and will stay with you!

Stars – Take Me To The Riot
Next up is this amazing song by Stars, a Canadian group that I had never heard of until recently. I saw this video on NewNowNext a couple of weeks back, and it prompted me to check into them further. Upon more listens of this song, I realized how much I loved it, and as such, it has been getting a lot of attention from me. I really love how the guy and the girl’s voices intermingle, and totally make this amazing harmony. I am a sucker for groups that have more than one lead; and when they sing together, it is greatness!! After checking out some of their other songs, I think I have found a new group to pay attention to. Good stuff from our northern neighbor; even if their name is a bit generic, and makes it difficult to find their music. Note: I don’t care for the intro, or background noise in this video; but don’t let it distract from this fantastic song, will you?

Silverchair – Straight Lines
We saw Silverchair a few weeks ago at the 99x Mistletoe Jam, and I was instantly impressed by them as performers; but I remarked that I was not really that into the show, because I didn’t know any of their stuff. That being said, no one was more surprised at how much I LOVE this new song from them. It came on XM the other morning, and I literally had to run to my office and watch the video like 5 times. This song is awesome!!! It was way more “metal-rock” when we saw them in concert, and I remember liking at the show, but I totally love the more polished version. Also, is it me, or did Daniel Johns grow into quite a hottie? He got all half naked at the show, revealing some of that hotness… but I think that is fodder for a different sort of post, now isn’t it? Either way, this song is amazing.

Jack Penate – Torn On The Platform
Here’s another one of those songs that my buddy Deb was all about, and tried to get me into, but at the time, fell on deaf ears. I wasn’t ready. However, this week, I was looking for new music, and his name was mentioned on several of the “similar recommendations” regarding artists I love like Kate Nash and Adele. So, I checked him out, not remembering that I was told about him previously, and was instantly reminded that I have heard of him before. At the same time, I was instantly wondering why I was so resistant? Too much energy? I think that honestly may be it… he is like 5 shots of espresso, really, but it makes it fun, right? Well, this go round, it did; simple, guitar-based energy-rock, done fun, and done well. He also looks like a young Patrick Dempsey, doesn’t he? Either way, it’s clear this kid is having fun, and making good music too; the rest of the CD is just as fun! Also, a huge thanks Deb; I eventually get to the brilliance that you know right away!

Shiny Toy Guns – Rainy Monday
Last but certainly not least today, is a little “blast from the past”. Shiny Toy Guns were on my top CDs of 2006, because of how amazing they are, and I was recently reminded of that brilliance when I heard Rainy Monday on XM. I love when I haven’t heard one of my favorite CDs in a while, and then you hear one of the songs, and it totally gets you back into it; and that’s what happened this week. I saw STG in concert in 2007, and it was one of the best shows I saw all year; these guys are amazingly talented, and make incredible music. I love them! As such, I felt compelled to take a little trip down memory lane, and bring this Friday to a close with the amazing Rainy Monday; one of their best songs!

Well, that does it for this Friday. Hope that everyone has an amazing weekend, and as always, let me know what tracks are tickling your fancy; I’m always on the lookout for new stuff! Who knows, it may make a future edition of 5SF! Take care fellow bloggers!

5SF: january 4

It’s the first five song friday of the year!!! Make not mistake either, we are starting this year off with a bang. After counting down the best 31 records of the year, I was worried that I wouldn’t have anything to contribute today but a rehash, but alas, I was WRONG. I am here to bring some MASSIVE songs today! I am going to throw a couple that I loved in 2007, but just couldn’t get into the whole record, but now find myself loving on a new level. I also have one from a 2007 record that I am just now getting around to. All of these songs are totally amazing in their own way. You know what, instead of telling you about them, I will just bring them to you!

Tegan and Sara – The Con
First up today is the powerhouse lesbian sister duo, Tegan and Sara. I have never been into them (and please don’t shoot me for saying this, fans of T&S), because I HATE that song Walking with a Ghost. I know that a bunch of people love it, but I am not one of them. However, I do LOVE this song, The Con, which has gotten me to listen to their record, and I am actually quite liking it. I saw the video, and found the song lingering in my head, so I downloaded it, and have liked it more and more with each listen. This might be one of those CDs that would have made my list; had I actually discovered it last year. Oh well, at least we are enjoying it now, right? I will warn you though; this song will get in your head and will not want to leave!

Dragonette – I Get Around

Here is one of those songs that I thoroughly enjoyed in 2007, but for whatever reason, I couldn’t get into the whole album. That being said, I recently listened to it again, and I have remembered how amazing some of Dragonette’s songs are; many of them are even standouts. This song in particular makes me seriously want to put on my dancing shoes and hit a disco; I have got to dance when I hear this. Also, that synth riff is so amazing, that it begs to played LOUD and on repeat. Such a catchy song, and a great one to get you ready for a Friday night on the town.

Adele – Hometown Glory
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_14_adele-hometown.mp3]
I can’t wait any longer to bring the MASSIVE amazingness that I hinted at earlier. This incredible song comes from someone who is sure to be the next big thing, 19 year old Adele from the fabulous UK. You can say that you heard it hear first folks; Adele is so incredibly talented, and all of the songs that I have heard from her are AMAZING. Her voice is like a blend of Etta James, Amy Winehouse, and Joss Stone, yet it has a softness and earnest feeling that make her stand out on her own. I watched some of her you tube videos where she is performing live, and this girl must know that she is something; there is such confidence in her voice, that she commands the song even live. I will be buying this CD the SECOND it comes out; because Adele is the next biggest artist coming from the the UK. Move over Amy Winehouse, Adele is here to de-throne you if you can’t get your act together. I will gladly admit that I have been listening to this on repeat.

Radiohead – All I Need
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_14_radiohead-allineed.mp3]
I know that I am not alone in loving this song, because in my opinion, it was the best song on In Rainbows. This is the second song from an album that I really genuinely wanted to get into last year, but for whatever reason, only a couple of songs made a splash for me. This song is quite amazing, and really showcases everything that I have ever liked about Radiohead as a band. It reminds me a lot of the songs that I loved from OK Computer; which happen to be some of my favorite songs by them. This song is truly amazing.

Jonathon Coulton and GLaDOS – Still Alive
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_14_jonathancoulton-stillalive.mp3]
Finally today, I bring you the lovable end song from the video game Portal, that I linked to the other day. The reason I wanted to highlight this song, is not only because, again, the game is amazing, but because the song, even by itself, is insanely catchy and fun. I heard it before I had even heard of Portal, and loved it from the first listen. When you find out what she is singing about, you will love it even more, because of the witty (and bitchy) backtalk the AI GLaDOS has the nerve to throw at you after you have defeated the game. There is a lot of buzz about this song on the internets, and I am here to throw one more log on that fire; this song is definitely as good as the hype surrounding it. Just remember, that the cake is a lie!

Well, that’s the first five song Friday of the year, folks, I hope that everyone is enjoying 2008!!! As always, let me know what you are listening to these days; I am always looking for new stuff!!