Tag: music suggestion

"pointless", all about me, listen up!, music musings, music suggestion, the catch-all-egory

listless on monday… not I!

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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!

civil rights, get involved, happenings, listen up!, music musings, music suggestion, show the love, that is so gay, tragic

5SF: april 25

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One final down, two to go. This really is a stressful time of year.

On a serious note, today is the National day of Silence, where people in schools across the country don’t speak, in order to bring attention to the fact that gay people are continually harassed verbally, and unfortunately, physically. This year is dedicated to the little boy, Lawrence King, who was murdered because he had a crush on his classmate. It still blows my mind how cruel and unusually hateful can be. I hope that this day, we can respectfully remember those that have been taken from us, and hopefully, these instances of abuse (and worse) can end. Being gay is normal, and in order to make that a reality, we all need to stop calling names, stop making fun, and treat gay people just as we are; normal.

On a less serious note, let’s do the five songs already.

Newton Faulkner – Dream Catch Me
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_425_newtonfaulkner-dreamcatchme.mp3]
I actually heard this song a long time ago, when my buddy Deb played it for me, but for whatever reason (again), it didn’t gel with me right away. I heard it again on the radio a few months ago, and have really been loving it ever since. I have been meaning to post it for two weeks now, but better late than never, right? Be warned, it is such a catchy song, with a fabulous melody and an infectious chorus, so there is a great chance that it will get stuck in your head after listening. You have been warned. Sometimes, you hear a refreshing, really well done pop song, and I am here to say that this is definitely one of those songs.

Feist – Mushaboom (Postal Service Remix)
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_425_feist-mushaboom(postalserviceremix).mp3]
After seeing Feist last week in concert, and remembering why I chose her amazing CD The Reminder as my number 2 of 2007, I have been revisiting the record, and feeling the need for more Feist. I went back and downloaded her first CD, and found this really great mix of Mushaboom on the compilation CD she released called Open Season. It’s a great song on it’s own, and I thought she performed it (and all of the others) flawlessly in concert. However, adding that Postal Service treatment to anything makes it instantly better, in my honest opinion. I wish they would release another record all ready!!! Well, at least I have the random collaborations that the did with fabulous artists like Feist to tide me over, I guess. Either way, it was great getting to see Feist, and it has been a great “reminder” of how great of an artist that she truly is.

Imogen Heap – Hide and Seek
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_425_imogenheap-hideandseek.mp3]
First of all, wow. I mean seriously. This is my “blast from the past” song this week, and it is a doosy. I have loved this song immensely from the first moment that I heard it. The rest of this record is amazing, but this is one of those songs that carries emotion so pungently on the tip of each syllable, that is begs to be played over and over again. Imogen Heap’s voice is ethereal and amazing, and with the vocoder letting her use her voice as the instrument that drives this song truly defines her as an unconventional, yet amazingly talented music artist. I really look forward to what’s coming next from Imogen, because if it is anything like this, I know that I am going to LOVE it. *pardon me for a second while I play this song again… yep… amazing.*

Hayden – The Hardest Part
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_425_hayden-thehardestpart.mp3]
I posted a Hayden song a while back when I first found out that he was opening for Feist. It was the first song of his that I heard, way back when I was in high school, and since that time, I have had the chance to get to know his newest release, In Field and Town much more thoroughly. I can say now, that it is definitely one of the best records released so far in 2008, and if my love for the record continues to grow with each listen as it has, it will probably be amongst my favorites for the year. The harmonies and melody that Hayden plays with are effortless, and insanely beautiful. His raspy voice offers more emotion to these simple, but well crafted songs. Seeing him open for Feist was definitely a treat, and I am extremely glad to have been reintroduced to an artist that I forgot about nearly 10 years ago. This is my favorite song from his new record, and it is one that I could seriously listen to on repeat.

Danity Kane – Pretty Boy
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_425_danitykane-prettyboy.mp3]
On a final very danceable note, I present this brilliantly produced track from Nate “Danja” Hills. He worked wonders for Britney, as well as others like Katharine McPhee, and he pull out all the stops on this hot track for Danity Kane. Is it me, or is Danja totally the next Darkchild? I hope they release this as their next single, because I would love to see a video for this track. While I haven’t fallen as hard for their sophomore album, this song is definitely getting lots of play from me, it is HOT!! I am hoping that Danja has more of this up his sleeve, and less of that sleeper he did for Madge. This song is just twisted, and the beat is wickedly infectious, whereas the Madonna track is well… boring to me. Oh well, I guess we’ll see!

Well, there’s your five… what do you think?? And music suggestions for me too people!! I need them!

five song friday, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

5SF: april 18

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Shazam! I’m glamorous! It’s a beautiful Friday, and a great day for another installment of the lovely 5 song Friday, don’t you think? I am still working on getting up my photos that I took at the Kate Nash concert the other night, which was fantastic. I am sure that I will post something about that this weekend. Also, I am going to see Feist tonight, and I am totally excited!!! I hope to get some fun pictures from her show as well. But enough about that, let’s get to today’s songs, shall we?!

Death Cab For Cutie – I Will Possess Your Heart
As a huge fan of Death Cab for Cutie, I have been eagerly anticipating their new album, which comes out next month. However, I was a little taken aback by the 8 minute lead single, I Will Possess Your Heart; which I will admit that I did like, but I couldn’t help be distracted by the 4 minute intro. Well, they released a video for the song, both in long form, and in this featured shorter form, and I have realized that it contains everything I love about Death Cab for Cutie; I was just focusing too much on that 4 minutes. Well, I can say that I am definitely anxious to see what the rest of the album holds, but in the mean time, I am loving this great song.


Gossip – Standing in the Way of Control
I actually heard this song forever ago, and passed over it, because it didn’t initially wow me. The video is almost a fully on assault on the eyes, but this time around, I am not letting that distract me. I actually heard a live version of this song recently, and I was BLOWN AWAY by the amazing Beth Ditto. I now see what everyone is going on about; this lady is amazing. Well, now I am listening, and loving this song. I am a couple of years behind on this one, but coming around is better late than never, I always say.

Morningwood – Nth Degree
I was making a playlist for the gym a couple of nights ago, and while sifting back through old dance songs and singles that I had, I found this amazing gem. I remember when this song came out, that I literally thought I was going to wear it out; and you know what, I think I did. Back when my iTunes decided that it no longer wanted to remember my playlists, and I had to rebuild my entire library, I forgot about some of the great songs that I had, this being one of the more notable selections. This is such a catchy and fun rock track, which is perfect for rolling the windows down, and cranking it up on the way home; which is exactly what I am going to do! I’m glad to have this gem back!

Estelle – American Boy
This is one of those songs that falls into the “one listen didn’t hook me, but now I am clearly paying attention” category. I heard this song some months ago, and was all “eh”, but after seeing the video randomly recently, I was taken by how beautiful both Estelle and her voice are. This is such a slick track, and the baseline really gets you bopping in your seat. Additionally, the hook is brilliant, and really puts this track on repeat in your head. I am glad that I gave Estelle another shot, because I am firmly loving this song right now.

Busta Rhymes ft. Janet – What’s It Gonna Be?
For last week’s featured five song Friday, I found many more tracks than I was expecting, and found myself going back through the music catalogs of not only Aaliyah, but of a few other artists I really enjoy as well; most notably, Janet. After listening to the BRILLIANT album All For You, I was trying to think of other songs that I loved featuring Ms Jackson, and I remembered this song, which I totally felt was extremely underrated. I remember seeing the video on MTV, and thinking the video was weird, but I also remember LOVING this song. While the Busta Rhymes rapping isn’t necessarily my normal style, Janet’s take on the chorus is ethereal and beautiful. The unconventional beat is also a pleasure, considering how contrived some hip hop can be. This is one of those songs that I totally think should have been a bigger hit, but I can at least acknowledge that it was a hit with me. I am glad to have stumbled back onto this track, and I can definitely say that it has been fun sifting through music that I haven’t heard in ages… I have A LOT of great stuff.

Well, there’s your five songs, kids. I am looking forward to this weekend… I hope to break in my new camera (I got the XSi yesterday), and I plan on getting tattooed on Sunday (YES!!!). Stay tuned for updates from the ever-changing world of duane!! Hope everyone has a most excellent afternoon! Gold pants!

concerts, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

kate nash tonight at the variety!

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As the title so simply states, I am going to see the amazing Kate Nash at the Variety in Little Five Points tonight. I am currently a Variety Playhouse virgin, but I have heard lots of great things about the venue, and I am looking forward to the concert. I think that I am going to try and get their a bit early, as I want to be pretty close to the stage.

In case you have no idea who (or how amazing) Kate Nash is, recall that just four months ago, I named her debut, Made of Bricks, my number 3 CD of 2007 (there are some sound clips you can listen to if you follow that link). I have seen some live shots of her on youtube, and I can definitely tell you that I am very excited to be seeing her tonight live, for the first time.

Here’s hoping that I get lots of great pictures of the show… and maybe I’ll even get to meet Kate; a big here’s hoping on that last part. That would be so awesome!

Just to get me in the mood, and to share the love for Kate, I thought I would post some videos of her greatness…

Here’s her third single, the amazingly catchy Pumpkin Soup:

And of course, I had to post one of the best songs that came out in 2007, Foundations:

If you are planning on being at the show, be sure to say hi! Onward to Kate Nash!

five song friday, listen up!, mixed media, movie musings, music musings, music suggestion

5SF: april 11 – bad movie soundtrack edition!

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Today, I decided to switch things up a bit, and do a themed five song Friday for fun. Instead of picking five songs at random, this week, I will be featuring five songs that all come from soundtracks; and more specifically, soundtracks of movies that many wouldn’t consider to be necessarily any “good”. The songs I picked are just five songs that prompted me to go out and buy a soundtrack for that one song, regardless of the lack of desire to see the film. With the exception of two (which I will note… and weren’t really great themselves), I have not seen any of these movies, so if they are among your favorites, try not to take offense; I did buy the soundtrack after all! Also, there will be a bonus song featured this week as an extra soundtrack-song treat!

Now… on with the show!

Aaliyah – Try Again
Movie: Romeo Must Die. Unfortunately, this was one of Aaliyah’s first, and tragically, last movie roles. The movie itself isn’t good by any means, but there are moments when she was allowed to shine (this is the first of two movies on the list that I saw)… however, it was on the soundtrack where her shining is the most notable. Even as a stand alone track, this is a hot hip-hop number, and the production on it is so tight, that not even water could get in. I remember being so excited by the work that Timberland and Missy E were doing back in 2000, because the stuff they were turning out (this included) were off the chain. This is an excellent example of a flawless track gracing an otherwise forgettable movie’s soundtrack; drawing more attention to the film than it may have been given without its inclusion. I remember when I first heard this song, I seriously had to have the soundtrack, and I remember listening to this on repeat. Bringing this one back out of the closet has reminded me of just how damn good this song really is.

Pras, Mya, and ODB – Ghetto Superstar (That is What You Are)
Movie: Bullworth. Don’t deny it… you loved this song at some point in the past. We all did. Even those that resisted found themselves singing along with Mya in the end. Her sweet voice calling you in with that chorus made us swoon. While this song was a massive radio hit, and probably sold TONS of sountracks for Bullworth, I don’t think that it did much for the movie; I know that I had the soundtrack, and never saw the film (and still don’t have any desire to). However, there is no denying this little slice of gold that found itself sitting all alone on a strange soundtrack for an otherwise forgettable film. Even though this song became massively overplayed on the radio, I will admit that it is great hearing it again… it is definitely a fun song!

Michael Jackson – Will You Be There
Movie: Free Willy. Now for the tear-jerker (you know that you cried like a bitch when that whale jumped over that little boy… don’t deny it). This comes from Free Willy, which was actually a favorite movie of mine when I was younger. I can say now, that I really didn’t know good movies back then, because I have seen it since, and it is pretty much as close to a stinker as you can get (regardless if it is enjoyable or not, it is as hokey as it comes)… however, this ballad by Michael Jackson is a beacon of light shining warmly on the film’s soundtrack. I remember that after we saw the movie, and this song started being played on MTV, that I made my aunt take me to Coconuts records, were I bought this soundtrack for $18!!! I wanted it so badly, that it cost me more than 3 weeks’ allowance!! Now, that is dedication (well, it was also for my “favorite” movie at the time). Looking back, the film has definitely lost some of it’s luster, but this song is still a winner. I am not the biggest Michael Jackson fan, but this is one of those songs that I will always love.

Aaliyah – Are You That Somebody?
Movie: Dr. Dolittle. This is the second, extremely notable entry from the amazing, and missed, Aaliyah. She was a breath of fresh air for hip-hop, and honestly, one of the only hip-hop artists that I have gravitated towards. Her voice is so silky, and the production value on her songs were always top notch. It is tragic that she is gone, but she left behind a body of songs that would still be hits if they were released tomorrow; this song especially. The first time I heard this song, I ran out and bought the soundtrack, and I even tried to learn as much of the dance they do in the video as I could. This song is hot, and I am glad to get back in touch with it; and Aaliyah. After doing this little themed 5SF, I have a feeling that I am going to be listening to more Aaliyah again.

Blackstreet, Mya, and Mase – Take Me There
Movie: Rugrats the Movie. First of all, I want to complain for a second… When I came up with this idea, it hinged on this and one other song specifically, so it was one that I felt that I had to include. Well, I thought it would be easy enough to obtain the songs; however, it wasn’t. I literally spent 2 hours trying to get this damn song. Ridiculous. Anyway… This is one of those super-saccharine songs that makes you get up and dance, even though you feel terribly guilty for liking it in the first place. Yes, I bought the Rugrats soundtrack, because this song did not get released as a single (so far as I knew then). The reason I had to search for it last night?? Because I sold the soundtrack a long time ago!! Well… I am glad to have this little jam back, because it really is a fun number; even though it is from a potentially bad movie, and it was definitely the only reason to get the soundtrack. This is also the second track with Mya in it… which shows that she definitely had some cred when it came to soundtrack contributions!

BONUS TRACK!!!! — and now for something completely different…
Smashing Pumpkins – Drown
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/smashingpumpkins-drown.mp3]
Movie: Singles. I wanted to include this track, because I really wanted to feature a completely different type of great song from a bad movie’s soundtrack. Smashing Pumpkins have always been among my favorite bands, but there was a period where I was borderline obsessed with them. About the time, I became aware that the Pumpkins were on the Singles soundtrack, and such I had to have it… I rushed out and got it right away. They didn’t disappoint either, because Drown is an amazing song, and has some truly fantastic lyrics. I have still never seen Singles, but it just didn’t look like a movie I wanted to see… plus, I had what I really wanted, a new Smashing Pumpkins song, so I was pretty much happy with what I had already gotten. I hope that you have enjoyed the bonus track for this week.

Well, that concludes another five song Friday, but it also concludes the bad movie soundtrack themed five song Friday!! Now, I chose these 5 songs, because I actually did love them enough to go out and get the soundtracks. There are far more bad movie soundtracks that had great songs on them… which ones did you run out and get the soundtracks for?? Let me know! I hope everyone has a great weekend, and I hope that you enjoyed the theme this week!

five song friday, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

5SF: april 4

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I still can’t believe it’s already April! Oh well… spring has sprung, and the parking lot has been heavily dusted with that annoyingly itchy powder known as pollen, and I am just counting the days until I am in a full fledged allergy coma. I have to say, that sometimes, I find it hard to come up with 5 songs for each Friday, because I am always wanting to feature something fresh and new, but I guess I shouldn’t pressure myself too much… are you guys enjoying what I have been posting? What is something you would like to see more of?? I try to do a “flashback” track each week, and I have been having fun with that; but is that something you would like to see more of? How about theme weeks? Let me know what you guys want, as I think it could make this weekly event a little bit more fun for all of us.

Alright enough chit chat… on to this week’s five!

Ferras – Hollywood’s Not America
While I heard this song some time ago, back when they were talking about using this as the “time to go home song” on AI, I didn’t really get into it until recently. After several listens, I can definitely attest to this song being a well crafted pop song, as well as a major grower. The soft, and hidden power in Ferras’ voice is exactly what I love about other male solo piano-driven pop artists (ala John McLaughlin and Matt Nathanson). This is definitely a radio friendly track, and one that I expect will get many months of airplay. While I am still warming up to the rest of Ferras’ CD, this song is definitely a stand out, and a fantastic track. One word about the video though… Ferras would totally be a hottie… IF he cut that mullet. Seriously, a mullet… WTF? Those earrings are fucking sexy though… I kind of want them myself.

B-52s – Funplex
By the power of GAY-skull! Seriously, the B-52s are about as pop-rock campy gay as they come, and while I originally didn’t like this song AT ALL, after I saw the video randomly, I found myself singing “faster pussy cat, thrill thrill… I’m at the mall on a diet pill!”. I am so glad that I came to my senses, because I am loving this song. With each subsequent listen, I fall deeper and deeper for this track, and if you find yourself a fan of other B-52s hits like Love Shack and Roam, then you will probably fall for this one as well. These guys may have some years on them, but damn they look and sound just as good as ever!

Booty Luv – Some Kinda Rush
I posted a Booty Luv video as a part of a five song Friday quite some time ago, but the other day, I popped this CD back in my car and their infectious dance rhythms overtook my body again. Pulling out this CD again was actually inspired by the fact that I have been quite enjoying Danity Kane’s new record more and more, which has had the undeniable effect of getting me moving, and needing to groove more and more. Booty Luv’s CD is perfect for filling that prescription too, especially with Some Kinda Rush; this song is a club banger, and it is REALLY hard to sit still during the pulsating beats and the synth-guitar riffs. This is euro-dance at it’s best, and it is no wonder that I was so happy to have it pop back up on my radar. What a great song; and perfect for a Friday.

Jars of Clay – Weighed Down
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_44_jarsofclay-weigheddown.mp3]
Last night, when I was compiling my weekly five songs for today’s post, I got frustrated that I couldn’t post one of the ones I wanted (no video, and I only have the mp4 of it… don’t worry, it will come in a future installment), I stumbled upon a new release that tickled my fancy; Jars of Clay released a greatest hits album this week. While I don’t listen to them very much anymore, I still consider Jars of Clay one of my all time favorite bands, because literally, every song on their first 5 CDs are flawless, and I love each one completely. I have seen Jars of Clay many times in concert, and when I picked up their second CD Much Afraid last night for the first time in a long time, it was like no time had gone by; I still loved every track. This song is one of my favorites by Jars of Clay, and one of the songs that really cemented them as a favorite group for me. If you like this one, you should check out some of their other stuff, because it’s pretty much all brilliant. I love re-discovering music that you may love, but haven’t heard in a long time. Sometimes, it’s nice to be reminded of the past!

Owl City – The Saltwater Room
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_44_owlcity-thesaltwaterroom.mp3]
Okay, it is kind of rare that I hear something, and I am inexplicably and amazingly blown away by it. Enter Owl City. A flickr pal of mine recommended it to me (he has recommended several fantastic things in the past), and after I downloaded it, I realized what I had in my hands… something amazing. The comparison to the Postal Service is undeniable, but it is like they put Hellogoodbye and the Postal Service (two bands I REALLY love) into a blender, and when they poured it out, they put a great little umbrella in the drink. Seriously, the beats are melodic, and fantastically created. While lyrically, he is definitely quite wordy, and at times, nonsensical, the vocal arrangements are spot on, and his voice is definitely reminiscent of Ben Gibbard and Forrest Kline. I love the melody he has with the female singer, and the more I listen to this album, the more I love it. I can count this among some of the most amazing suggestions I have gotten recently, and I am just glad to have discovered the amazing group, and even more so, I am glad to pass it along to all of you. You can download both Owl City CDs from iTunes today; and if you liked this track, then you definitely should.

Well, there you have another five song Friday. I hope everyone is doing well today, and as always, let me know what you think. Also, be sure to tell me what you are listening to… I really want to know!

hmm interesting, is it just me?, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion, venting, well?, wtf?!

there’s similar, and then there’s the SAME!

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Okay, just last week, I was sort of ranting about the similarity between two songs, and low and behold it has happened again. However, this time, there is one key exception: I have heard two songs that not only sound similar, but I swear, they are the same damn song!!!

I was riding with James the other night, and when we ride in his car, we are almost always listening to the radio (which I don’t usually do), and they announced that the number one song of the day was coming up. Well, it was a song by Chris Brown, which I had never heard, but when they started playing it, I thought to myself, “hey, self, I HAVE heard this before… when it was called Irreplaceable!”. Now, while I like Irreplaceable by Beyonce, I think that it is a total crock of shit that you can take a song and completely re-release it, with different lyrics a year later, and STILL TOP THE CHARTS!!!

WTF people? Seriously. This is one of the problems with music today: People are just eat whatever they are fed. In this case, two practically identical songs have been fed to the masses, and what have you done? You have eaten it up, and propelled both songs to the top of the charts! I just don’t get it. There is so much amazing music out there, that it is practically inexcusable to have two practically identical songs make it so high on the charts; especially when so little time has past since Beyonce’s version hit!

But don’t take my word for it: listen to each one yourself, so you can really see how similar they are: (on the left, you have Irreplaceable by Beyonce and on the right you have With You by Chris Brown… neither of which is the real video because of how stupid music companies are with you tube stuff, however, the Beyonce video is quite hilarious to me)

After doing a little investigation myself, I see that it is indeed the same producer for each track; which really begs me to question if one (or both) of these stars didn’t get ripped off. I mean, they are paying for production, and the producer just shills out the same damn song for both of them. I would be infuriated!! Well, I am a little irate, but that is because of what this does to music in my opinion. It just solidifies the fact that people are not open to innovation, and true talent. Bands and artists with enormous amounts of talent will continue to be “one hit wonders”, and will always be overlooked because of cookie-cutter shit like this, and it pisses me off, because I tend to prefer the former.

What is even more ridiculous to me, is that if you take an amazing band, one that may not be as popular as Beyonce (but is popular in their own realm of the music world), and listen to their take on Irreplaceable, that it becomes a totally different song; even though it isn’t! Chris Brown’s “different song” is more like Irreplaceable than Sugarland covering Irreplaceable. Freaky stuff man. It’s just frustrating when you constantly see that this music industry is full of such crazy, crazy shit. I just wish that the talented and overlooked people could get half of what those Chris Brown’s out there get; both in fame, and in fortune. Hearing the same old songs and making them both best sellers just isn’t right.

Sigh. Now I will go back to my music that isn’t so radio-friendly… but at least it is genuine, and dare I say it, different.

five song friday, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

5SF: march 28

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TGIF motherfuckers! Holy shit, this week has flown by, and thank goodness too… I am so looking forward to the weekend! This week has a bunch of pretty mellow stuff for whatever reason, and the “flashback” song is one of those instances where I love the song, and think that it is incredible, but don’t really care for anything else by that group. Alright, enough chit chat… strap yourselves in, because here we go!

Guillemots – Get Over It!
I will warn you… before you push play, you had better be ready for the catchiness of a song that will get stuck in your head for quite some time!!! This song is one of those songs that will have you bopping your head, tapping your toes, and wanting to seriously dance about. When the title of the song comes up, and they shout “get over it!”, you can’t help but feel compelled to do the same. The first time I heard this song, I was reeled in, but for whatever reason, I have waited until now to bring it up in a five song Friday. Regardless, this is one of those driving with the top down kind of songs, which is perfect for a beautiful day like today!

Idina Menzel – Brave
I first heard Idina’s amazing voice in RENT, but it wasn’t until Wicked that I fell head over heals for her. In case you are scratching your head wondering what I am talking about, Idina is a Tony winning Broadway actor, and it was her performance in the amazing Wicked that got her that well deserved award. Well, it was only a matter of time, based on the popularity Wicked rightfully cast on her, that she would release a pop album. While I am surprised that much of the album focuses more on very subdued “celine-lite” type of stuff, this song is truly beautiful, and shows that she definitely has the potential to cross over into mainstream pop. She just needs a few more like this one, and she is definitely on her way! I also have to mention how insanely beautiful Idina is in this video; she is stunning, both in voice and beauty!

Yeah Yeah Yeah’s – Maps
This is the song that I spoke of earlier, when I said that I love the song, but that pretty much completes my interest in the group that sings it. Well, it is unfortunate that this is the truth, because this song is so emotional and powerful, and I love it completely. This is one of those songs that, when it comes on in the car, I put it on full blast and sing the shit out of it, alone with Karen O. I absolutely LOVE the hard drumming and the wickedly repetitive guitars in this song; they totally make the emotion Karen O is trying to get out more noticeable. Also, you HAVE to watch the video for this song, because she not only sings this song; she performs it. You can see the raw emotion on her face, and it totally makes this less of a song, and more of an experience. I will always count this among my favorite songs; regardless if they do another song I like or not.

Goldfrapp – Monster Love
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_328_goldfrapp-monsterlove.mp3]
I will admit that I had a really hard time getting into Goldfrapp’s most recent album; but not because it wasn’t fantastic, it was more because I had to be in the mood to experience it. It is much more mellow and acoustic than I expected, but the more I listen to it, I realize that there is so much more texture and many more layers to the songs that I originally heard. Well, since I have been listening to it more and more, I have to say that Monster Love really stands out much like A& E did, because it is a fantastic song. My favorite thing about this song, is how it begins so softly, and builds to a crescendo, where she expresses her demands, and then she falls back to that soft state again; only to repeat the process throughout the song. I think that the layering and the build up of this song is masterful song making, and I am glad that I went back for more, and gave this album the attention it deserves. Good form, Goldfrapp, good form.

Forest City Lovers – Don’t Go
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_328_forestcitylovers-dontgo.mp3]
My final selection for today, is a mellow folk-laden song from a random band I discovered through myspace, Forest City Lovers. I saw their CD on one of the many websites I visit, and I checked out their myspace to see if it warranted a further look. I was instantly taken by Don’t Go, and I ended up getting the CD right away based on this one song. I love how her voice reminds me of Inara Day of the Bird and the Bee, and how the music uses the acoustic rhythm, and the haunting violins in the background. This one is sure to get a lot of play from me, and I am looking forward to getting to know more about the rest of the CD. I love it when you find random good music, don’t you?!?! Well, that’s part of the reason for this weekly post; so I can share those finds with you!

I hope that everyone has a great weekend, and as always tell me what you are spinning; I really want to know! Enjoy!

"pointless", all about me, happenings, music suggestion, near and dear, photography, politics

a bit of freelisting on Monday

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Well, I have thoughts running through my head this morning, but none of them that I could elaborate a whole post on, so I figured a free list would be a great idea! Let’s get started.

  • After a great weekend spending time with my friend, and attending her great wedding, I had to wait almost 5 hours in the airport because of delays. Boo to that. Either way, the weekend was a blast. It is funny how reconnecting with old friends can be such an amazing time. I’m glad her wedding went so well (even though it was rained out, and we couldn’t have it on the beach), and I fully expect her to be at mine… that is, if we ever have one *james… hint hint*.
  • Tattoo news: I am going to go and get a Sparrow tattoo this weekend, if all works out accordingly. Where should I get it?? I am seriously torn. I also might sign up for a consultation on another half sleeve… I want a phoenix and a Ganesha… stay tuned!
  • The Vampire Weekend CD is great. It gets better with each listen. Seriously, check it out.
  • After hearing the lead single from Death Cab for Cutie’s new record, I am a little worried. I hope that I like it as much as I love their previous work…
  • While at my friend’s wedding this weekend, I met some of her friends which are Atlanta locals. They had a really cool point and shoot that they actually got for the lucky married couple as a gift as well. After playing with their camera, I think that I am going to go and get it… today. It isn’t “better” than mine, it is just more of what I want. So what does that mean??? Well, that means that my perfectly fine 6MP Panasonic FX-01 is for sale, if someone wants it. It is a great camera, and I would be willing to part with it for $100 (much less than I paid for it). I will also throw in a 256MB memory card for free!! (hey, it isn’t much, but it’s something). Anyone interested? I have the box and all the stuff it came with. Let me know.
  • I wish that I were independently wealthy (big surprise), so that I could go on a real vacation. I went to drop my friend and her new husband off for their cruise before hitting the airport, and I now REALLY REALLY want to go on a cruise myself. I think that James and I may have to do that sometime in the near future.
  • This makes me really, really sad. Seriously, enough is enough. Bring them home. I support each and every troop that has been, that is there, and that will go overseas for us; I just want them home safe, and soon.
  • I had to be the respondent to test an interview instrument today, and I was reminded how interesting our jobs must seem to the outside… I mean, we talk about explicit sex for work!!! It certainly makes you at least smile!
  • Is it bad that Zombie Jesus, or the thought thereof makes me giggle? I mean, he kind of was a zombie, wasn’t he?? Maybe that’s blasphemous, but whatever. Did everyone have a great Easter?? I didn’t really do anything to celebrate; in fact, I had brunch with about 15 Jewish people (my friend’s husband is Jewish), so I guess I REALLY didn’t do anything for Easter.
  • Apparently, I look better with weight on me. At least, that is what everyone in my friend’s family said, after having not seen me for a few years. While it is nice to hear, I still can’t help but feel a little fat.
  • I guess that’s it for me… but what’s going on in your world??? Anything you want to talk about? It’s Monday, so I am sure that there are plenty other bored folks out there… am I right?