Category: music suggestion

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!

just a few random thoughts

  • Last night, I was invited to partake in a great “bad beer” podcast, and it was a LOT of fun. I really miss hanging out with the people that were a part of it (my old trivia group for the most part), and it was great to finally meet one of the bloggers I have known URL for a while in person. I hope that we get to do more of those types of things in the future. It was funny that our podcast was talking about how bad chelada style beer was, when I am kind of a fan of Miller Chill. In fact, I actually really like it… so long as it is cold. The other beers we tried (Bud Light Lime, Tequiza, and Michelob Ultra Lime and Cactus) were all gross. I’ll let you know when the podcast is up, and you can here the silly fun we had drinking bad beers.
  • I have been having random fits of sneezing. The allergies in Atlanta are nuts, and this year is no exception. I guess there is something to be said about consistency; regardless of how annoying it may be sometimes.
  • On Tuesday night, I went out to dinner with some friends at a new local restaurant, and I did something that I have not done in a LONG time… I left the waiter zero tip. Hear me out… I waited tables for 5+ years at various restaurants, all of which served alcohol. I have NEVER in my life ever told someone that they had to pay for a drink that they determined to be undrinkable. In fact, I often apologized for something that I had no part in; I never was a bartender, and I never made those drinks. However, we always made it right, and made sure the customer was happy each and every time. I ordered a drink that was absolutely disgusting (which shouldn’t have been), and it was a simple bar mistake. I stand by the fact that this is something that I should not have had to pay for; yet, he made me pay for the drink (even though he took the totally full beverage and poured it out). Unfortunately for this establishment, this is a lesson that I have learned about that place, and as such I will not be drinking there ever again; which pretty much means it has moved itself to the bottom of my list of places to go eat. It sucks too, because being a local restaurant, I really want to support it, but I can’t control how restaurants treat their patrons. Having been a waiter myself, I put up with A LOT of mistakes without saying a word, but this was just ridiculous. Oh well… there is sure to be a yelp review to come about the experience!
  • I have to say, that I was a little surprised by who won AI last night. Oh well, the proof is in the pudding; we’ll see when they release their records, right?! George Michael’s performance on the show was AMAZING. Also, is it me, or is Carrie Underwood completely unstoppable? I mean, she is F-I-E-R-C-E fierce! Not only is she beautiful, but she can sing the shit out of anything!! Maybe I need to download her records…
  • Speaking of amazing music, the song that I featured last week, Just Dance, by Lady Gaga, is one of the most amazing songs ever. Seriously, this song is going to be my song of the summer. I have had it on repeat since last week… Loves it.
  • That’s about it… I guess. Anything going on with you that you want to talk about?? Anything questions you want to ask me that are just burning in your brain? Let me know!

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?!?!

pictures of Sara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles @ The Variety Playhouse ATL 4/30/08
I know I mentioned it yesterday, but I felt compelled to post at least two shots, because I could not be more pleased with the way my film came out. I got some amazing shots of Sara, and I am so very happy to have been able to get them.
Sara Bareilles @ The Variety Playhouse ATL 4/30/08
The show was amazing, and now I always have these photos to look back at, and remember the power of the night. I would love to be a concert photographer for a living… I could totally get into it. The excitement of getting those shots makes the back breaking standing in place for 4 hours TOTALLY worth it. Anyone hiring?

5SF: may 2

This has been a busy/stressful week. Two finals, and an amazing concert, have kept me on my toes. I am still studying for my anatomy final, which I have to take some time today… gah. Wish me luck, because I am going to need it. I will be so glad when I am done with this class!!! Alright, let’s stay on track… the music track(s), that is. This week I had NO problem coming up with 5 great songs for you, and I hope that you enjoy them as much as I do.

David Ford – Songs For The Road
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_52_davidford-songsfortheroad.mp3]
I want to start by making a grand, but wholly true statement about this song; it is one of the most amazing, and beautiful songs I have ever heard. I had never heard of David Ford before I heard he was opening for Sara Bareilles, so I really didn’t know what to expect. What I found out quickly into his set, is the amazing power in his performance, as well as the tender beauty that he weaves into his songs; both lyrically and melodically. This song literally gives me chills all over my body. I snatched his CD at the show, met him, and even took a picture with him; and all I can think of, is how glad I am to have been exposed to another amazing artist. This is one of those songs that will really, really stay with you; and one that I am definitely listening to on repeat.

Gavin Rossdale – Love Remains The Same

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_52_gavinrossdale-loveremainsthesame.mp3]
When I first saw that Gavin Rossdale, former singer of the alternative powerhouse band Bush was releasing a solo album, curiosity got the best of me immediately, and I had to check out his first single. What I got, was a surprisingly tender ballad that I have totally fallen for. Not only have I always loved his voice, but I think that it totally suits this more sensitive acoustic rock, and I am definitely looking forward to hearing what else he has up his sleeve. It’s great to see him back on the music scene; especially when he is making great songs like this one.

Weezer – Pork and Beans

[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_52_weezer-porkandbeans.mp3]
Holy shit… new Weezer?!?! YES MA’AM! That is exactly what went through my head the other night when I saw that Weezer had a new single, Pork and Beans, up on iTunes, along with the pre-order for their new CD, the Red Album. As a LONG TIME fan of Weezer, I am delighted that they are bringing us another album, especially after rumors that they had called it quits after the last fantastic album, Make Believe. After listening to this track, I am reminded why I love Weezer so much; the quirky pop, and the buzzing guitars get me every time. After a few listens of this song, I can definitely tell you that I am now sitting on the edge of my seat, greatly anticipating the release of the Red Album.

Robyn – Dream On
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_52_robyn-dreamon.mp3]
Okay, as I spoke of earlier this week, I was really looking forward to Robyn’s self titled CD finally coming out in America. However, what I wasn’t expecting, was the inclusion of a couple of new tracks; most notably Dream On. Wow. This song totally brings a freshness to the record, and gives long time fans something more to clamor over, and yet another reason to run out and buy this fantastic album. Robyn is a pop goddess, and tracks like this give me the impression that she has a lot more up her sleeve for the future. I know that I am definitely looking forward to whatever Robyn has in store for us next. (FYI, after 3:12, when the track goes silent, there is nothing else on there, just a good 1:32 seconds of silence… no idea why).

Portishead – Machine Gun
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_52_portishead-machinegun.mp3]
Now that the record is finally out, I can finally get around to saying something about it. I downloaded it over a month ago when it leaked (I couldn’t resist), and first listens led me to make harsh, pre-judgment, where I declared that I was disappointed with the album. However, I refused to give up on one of the most innovative and brilliant bands that I have ever encountered, so I listened a few more times. With each listen, I got something new, and I realized that what they were trying to do with this album was just as they had done in the past; transcend. I think that they succeeded. It must be daunting to release an album after a decade’s hiatus, but Portishead have done so, and made it look effortless. The record is sure to continue to grow on me, and tracks like this one make me extremely glad that Portishead are in fact, back.

I hope you all enjoyed the five songs for this week… let me know what you thought! Good, bad, either way, I love feedback. Also, as always, WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO?? I want to know. Have a great weekend!

welcome back, old friend!

I had to take a detour on the way to work today, because of the unpredictable Atlanta traffic practically shutting down 85N. I was sitting still on the exit from 20E, and I thought, “self, let’s just go down to University, and then pop back up Boulevard”. Well, low and behold, during my little detour, I managed to get a moment of sheer joy; I saw an old friend that I haven’t seen in what seems like an eternity!

Mr. Fangs is BACK!!! Check it:
mr fangs

Now, I am pretty sure that these are new, because I have been down through this area before, and I haven’t seen them before. James also mentioned the two black ones as new, because he drives that way to work every day, and he remembers them showing up recently.

I had pretty much given up on ever seeing a new Mr. Fangs, and in a sheer moment of randomness, I found TEN (if you click on the above photo, you can go to my flickr and see the others)! Normally, I would hate graffiti, but this little guy is just so cute and really brings a smile to my face. Seriously, seeing Mr. Fangs made my day!!!

Also, just a note about the concert last night. Basically, it was amazing. Everything I expected. Sara was effortlessly amazing, and totally flawless in both her singing, and in her stage presence. My buddy Deb went with me, and admitted that she had a new appreciation for Sara after seeing her live, simply because of how amazing she is live. I think that is why I gush about her so much, because that is how I found out about her, and after seeing her several times, she never disappoints me in the least. I got to take my XSi with me to the show, and I took hundreds of pictures, all of which I have yet to sort through and get to editing for flickr. Stay tuned for that in the near future. To satiate your potential appetite for those photos, how about a little video of Sara singing Genie in a Bottle:


While it was extremely tiring to stand in place for over 4 hours, the show was magnificent. The opening acts, David Ford, and Rachel Yamagata were both amazing as well. Overall, it was a great concert experience, and is definitely one of the best shows I have ever seen. It was also really cool to finally meet fellow bloggers, Mark and Chad; even if it was only for like 5 minutes. Hopefully, I will get to hang out with them again in the future. Overall, it was a great and wonderful night.

sara b at the variety p… tonight!

Those of you that know this blog know that I am incredibly excited about seeing the amazing Sara Bareilles perform to a sold out crowd tonight, at the Variety Playhouse. Out of sheer excitement, I have been listening to her most of the day, and the realization that she is my favorite singer is just becoming stronger and stronger each time I think about it. I never get tired of listening to any of her material, and I generally feel great when I am listening to her perform. I even have live stuff of hers on my ipod; which is extremely rare for me, as I am generally not a fan of live recordings. However, the great thing about Sara, is that she sounds equally amazing live, so each recording is just as good as the last.


To me, she is truly the definition of an artist; she shows such an amazing talent in song writing, and effortlessly couples that with beautiful singing and piano playing. It is an understatement to say that I can’t wait for the concert tonight. I am planing on taking my new XSi with me, so I hope to get some great shots of Sara at the show. I think 3/4 of the concert experience to me is taking photos, because I really love to capture the moment on film (or in my case, a digital media storage device). Sure, the music, and the crowd make the show fun, but being able to photograph the artist is the part I really look forward to the most.

Now, I can guess what you are thinking: I know, I know… I go on and on about Sara all of the time, but you know what, she deserves it. Having met her a few times, and seeing how amazing she is both in concert and in person, I really don’t think there are other artists that I have experienced with the same charisma, and humble charm as Sara B has. Well, enough gushing, just know that I am excited about the show. It is going to be so cool to see her headlining a show… I remember the first time I saw her open for Marc Broussard; she really has come a long way in a really short time.

Now, because you know you want them; here’s a few of Sara’s songs to get us all in the mood for the show tonight (even if you aren’t going! which I have to wonder WHY aren’t you?!?!):
Between The Lines
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sarab-betweenthelines.mp3]
One Sweet Love
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sarab-onesweetlove.mp3]
Vegas
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sarab-vegas.mp3]
Gravity
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sarab-gravity.mp3]
Morningside
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sarab-morningside.mp3]

listless on monday… not I!

Well, there seems to be so many thoughts going through my head right now, that I figure it’s time for a good old fashioned Monday list, dig?

Let’s do this!

  • I took my Anatomy lab final last week, and I have my last two finals this week. I can’t tell you how much I want to be done with Anatomy. Seriously, the level of detail in this class is RIDICULOUS, and if you have taken it, you know that there is no reason to take this class other than to fulfill a requirement. I think that is what pisses me off the most about it, is because they are not teaching it to you for you to learn it, they are teaching it to you in order to force you to think whether you really want to do whatever required this class. Seriously, you will never, I repeat NEVER need to know the level of detail that we covered this year in two classes. And if you do, chances are about 99% that your job title will be Anatomist, or Anatomy teacher. So yeah. I can’t wait until these finals are in the bag.
  • I am taking the summer off from classes. I recently came to the realization that I should focus on getting my RN, and then I can get my BSN through an online bridge once I start working as a nurse. This means that I will be applying for the Spring of ’09, which gives me the chance to take Micro in the fall, and still meet the requirements for admission. I really, really hope I can get in, because I want to keep this train moving!
  • There have been some great CDs coming out since the beginning of the year, but tomorrow marks two great releases; both of which are WAY overdue, and one that it is utterly brilliant. Tomorrow, there is a new Portishead CD coming out (the first in 10 years!!!), and after several listens, I can definitely tell you that it is a solid record. It grows on me with each listen. Also, FINALLY, Robyn‘s self titled fourth CD comes out here in the USA; even though it came out way back in 2005 overseas. However, I can guarantee you that I will use every bit of liberty in this new release date, and this CD WILL be on my top CDs of 2008 list, because I have wanted to include it for 2 years now, but couldn’t because it came out in 2005. I swore to myself that if it ever did drop in the US, that it would make this list, because this CD is brilliant (five stars, easy), and has definitely stood the test of time. It is an amazing pop record, and you owe it to yourself to pick it up tomorrow.
  • I have really (much more than I expected) been enjoying Mariah’s new CD as well. It is actually VERY well done. I know that it is supposed to be a continuation of the Emancipation of Mimi, but I definitely think that it surpasses her previous record by leaps and bounds. It is rare that I listen to a hip hop record and really like every song, and with this new release, Mariah may have made a record that does that for me. There are a few songs that I would make minor changes to, but overall, it’s pretty amazing. Good show Mariah! I didn’t see that one coming at all, but then again, that is the best when you get surprised by good music from unexpected places, now isn’t it?
  • Also speaking of music, this week I get to see the amazing Sara Bareilles in concert. I think that it goes without saying that I can’t wait for that!!!!
  • Other than school and music, I guess there isn’t TOO much going on with me. I have come down with a SERIOUS case of anhedonia lately, otherwise known as a case of FUCK IT, which couldn’t have worse timing (finals week!). Things have been up and down at the house, from unexpected water leaks, to having to install kick-proof guards on our doors because the neighbor’s house had the front door kicked in. I am just glad we did it BEFORE something happened at our place… it is much better to spend the $80 up front than have your house broken into (and I am not saying that it means we can’t get broken into, but this makes it almost impossible to kick the door in… I saw the video online… and that is the way they usually break in).
  • Anything else going on… hmm, not sure. If I think of anything, I will update as necessary. Until then, what is going on with you guys??
  • Finally, related to the aforementioned love for Mariah’s newest CD, I think that the following performance (video below), and her reaction during it, make me love her just that much more. As seen on chart rigger, Mariah’s back up singer sang over her during one part of the song (at 3:06), and Mimi bitchily reminded miss thang that she had better “stop singing her part now, baby”. Damn, that was ice cold!! I love it!!! Seriously though, if you don’t want to back up a diva like Mariah, and you think you should be in the lead, why not do it instead of working for her?? She is the diva, not you, so you need to get used to it. It just makes me love Mimi even more, and I glad that I got to see it. Get her Mimi! HAHAHAHAHA!