I posted several weeks ago about this fantastic new single from one of my most favorite singers in the world, the amazing Ms. Sara Bareilles, and I STILL cannot get enough of this fabulous song. I seriously cannot wait for the new album, and in the mean time, I have this amazing single (and the cute video!) to keep me company. What really puzzles me, is why this song isn’t soaring up the charts right now; it has hit written all over it. Eh, I guess the American music-buying-public don’t know good music, do they? Then again, that’s no surprise, now is it (just take a look at most of the current top 10… need I say more?)?
Tag: music
five song friday, music musings, music suggestion
5SF: july 9
by duane • • 2 Comments
The summer of nursing school is still going strong, but luckily, there are only one test and two finals remaining. We are in the home stretch, people!! This is my “friday off” (ha!), and I have a little downtime, and I wanted to bring you some fresh music since I tend to leave you for long periods of time without it these days. So, let’s get right down to it, shall we?
Note: I kind of don’t feel like bothering with the album art this week… sorry kids; I am drained from so much school work!
The Saturdays – Missing You
After I posted about this new Saturdays song in Facebook, a few people commented that they weren’t feeling it, but the more I listen to it, the more I LOVE it. Seriously, The Saturdays are one of those groups that seem to only get better with each new release, and after their last album Wordshaker made such a huge splash with me, I just can’t wait for their upcoming album, which is apparently, due out later this year. These girls have to be the hardest working girls in girl-group driven pop right now!! Three albums in three years; and at least two of them have been fantastic! If the album follows the usual pattern of delicious, well-produced pop, I know that it will be a fantastic album; and here’s hoping it’s anywhere near as good as Wordshaker, because that album was good enough to make my top 5 last year!
Sky Ferreira – One
While I wasn’t really a fan of her first single 17, I heard this song earlier in the week, and I am in LOVE with it. Usually, repetition in a song is a huge turn off for me, but the synth-driven beat, and the super poppy rhythm have me totally hooked on this ‘one’. Apparently, it was produced by the BRILLIANT Bloodshy & Avant (as was 17; eh, can’t win ’em all…); which honestly speaks volumes as to why I love it so. This is the type of song that should shine a huge spotlight on this girl’s career, and I sincerely hope it’s a signal of great things to come from her in the near future. You should check out the video if for no other reason than to see just how much she bears an uncanny resemblance to the Olsen twins… doesn’t she?!
Kylie – Get Outta My Way
So we all know that Kylie’s new album Aphrodite is out, and well, it’s pretty darn good (which was kind of expected). That being said, I don’t think I love it as much as all of my fellow music bloggers do, but I want to heap a little praise on what I do love; this song (it is, in my opinion, the best on the album). Goddammit, I could dance to this song nonstop! It makes me want to grow a ponytail, so I could fling it back and forth in sheer dance-driven delight! This song is a heaping helping of stuff that Kylie does that I love best, and it is definitely Kylie’s message to the world of pop music; you’d better get out of her way, because she is still bringing us some of the best that pop has to offer.
Scissor Sisters – Whole New Way
Well, the Scissor Sisters have also released a new album very recently, and while I am a huge fan of theirs, I have to say, that I am not loving the new album; more along the lines of liking it a lot. With that being said, this song may be one of the best songs that they have ever written and recorded; it is utterly BRILLIANT. THIS is the Scissor Sisters at their absolute best, and I cannot stop listening to this song. I love it so completely, that it just sticks out, and overshadows the rest of the album for me. Perhaps it is because this one is so great, that the rest pale in comparison. Regardless, I am enjoying the new album, but I personally love the first two a bit more than this new release. Again, that doesn’t mean that I don’t like it, because I really, really do; after all, this song is on it!
Joshua Radin & Schuyler Fisk – Paperweight
I was recently watching Dear John, the just-kinda-okay movie with Channing Tatum and Amanda Seyfried, and this song was one of the songs playing in the background, and I instantly jotted it down as a song I must download. It isn’t a secret that I am a Joshua Radin fan, and this is definitely up there amongst his best songs, in my opinion. I love when they work hard to pair music with movies and TV shows, because it really makes the experience of watching something so much more engaging to me; and in this case (as has been with many before), I have found an amazing song as a result.
So there’s your Friday five… what did you think? Let me know, and as always, tell me what you are listening to as well! Have a great weekend.
five song friday, music musings, music suggestion
5SF: june 25
by duane • • 2 Comments
I bet you didn’t expect to see a 5SF today, did you?! I know, I know, I have been CRAZY busy with nursing school this summer, but for once, I actually have the “day off”, and I am bursting the seams with delight that I got the day to myself. I am also happy that I get to bring you some music finally, because I have been sitting on some great music lately, and I can’t wait any longer to share it. So let’s do just that, shall we?
Kelly Rowland – Commander
I was desperately in need of a summer song that was capable of blowing me away, and this song is all that and more. This is a major dance floor filler by Ms. Kelly Rowland, who in my opinion is a severely underrated 1/3 of what used to be Destiny’s Child. While Beyonce broke out of Destiny’s Child and became a full fledged diva, I feel like Kelly has been getting less attention than she deserves; but after this song tears up the airwaves this summer, there is no doubting that she will earn some of that attention back. The first time I heard this song, I immediately played two more times; it is massive. Kelly’s working with David Guetta on his equally dance-tastic, When Love Takes Over was clearly the beginning of a beautiful musical partnership, as evidenced by the magnificent direction they took with Commander. Expect to hear this in clubs all over the place this summer, with people marching to this infectious beat. Kelly, my dear, keep David’s number, because you two have something hot going on.
Scissor Sisters – Fire With Fire
I have definitely been one of those waiting on the new Scissor Sisters album with bated breath, and after falling head over heels in love with the first single off of the forthcoming album Night Work, I am sure that I won’t be disappointed. While it is definitely a more full-on dance direction than their previous work, I think the heart of the Sisters is still beating strong; only now it beats in unison to the dance beat! I will admit that it took me a few listens to fall in love with this song, but now that I have, I can’t seem to get enough of it. This is another one of those perfect summer songs that will keep me dancing in these way too hot summer months; I’ll just have to be sure to turn up the AC a little higher to keep cool. All of the anticipation is almost over, as Night Work is out next week!
Stars – We Don’t Want Your Body
I was incredibly surprised, and down right elated to see that the magnificent Stars released a new album, The Five Ghosts, earlier this week. While a lot of the album is a bit different from their previous work, I found myself loving many of the tracks; especially this one. This song in particular, sounds a little bit like Alphabeat or Dragonette, or at least, that they decided to collaborate with either one of them; which again, is pretty different from their other work. The good news, is this is really, really good, and I am so glad that I got the heads up about this new album; thanks internets, and thanks Stars for continuing to make great music!
Sarah McLachlan – Forgiveness
Also new this month is the new release, Laws of Illusion, from the ever-beautiful Sarah McLachlan. While I haven’t gotten into the whole album as much as I have been enveloped by her work in the past, the first time I heard Forgiveness, I felt the same way as I remember feeling the first time I heard some of my favorite songs by Sarah, like Angel or I Will Remember You. I honestly think this represents the best that she is as an artist, and I am glad to see that she’s clearly still got it. This song is beautiful, and oh-so Sarah McLachlan, which to fans of hers like myself, is sweet music to my ears.
Christina Aguilera – You Lost Me
I was pretty torn about whether or not to post this one. See, I think Christina has an amazing voice, and is incredibly talented… BUT, she has proven, especially recently, to be somewhat full of herself, to say the least. Her attitude has all but turned me off to her talent, and only seems to get worse with each time she opens her mouth to do anything other than sing. My advice to her is to shut the fuck up and let her music speak for itself; something that even it isn’t doing collectively as good as it used to do. That being said, when I first heard her sing this on American Idol’s finale, I knew it sounded somehow familiar, and my hunch was right when I looked up who co-wrote it; this song has Sia Furler written all over it. Perhaps that is why I love it, despite the fact that too-big-for-her britches sings it. Word on the net is that this will be her next single, which honestly, is a great move, because it is an amazing song; regardless of the fact that it is 100% Sia, and at parts, even sounds as if it IS Sia singing it. Now, that is not something I am complaining about, as I love Sia, and as I mentioned before, I’ve had about enough of Christina and her attitude these days. Regardless, I have to give credit where credit is due, and this is, quite simply, an amazing song.
There you have it, another installment of the five song Friday; which has been long overdue for an entry. I hope you enjoyed all of the tracks from this week, and be sure to let me know what you thought. Also, please let me know what you are listening to, as I always have my ear out for new stuff!
the catch-all-egory
Silversun Pickups at the Tabernacle, ATL 6/19/10
by duane • • 0 Comments
I took a break from studying on Saturday, and James and I headed out to the Tabernacle to see the amazing Silversun Pickups, and what we got was nothing short of a damn fine concert. While I didn’t particularly care for the opening bands, Silversun Pickups completely wailed for the entire set, and were downright incredible. I’ve loved these guys (and girl!) ever since I first heard their incredible debut album Carnavas), which a friend turned me on to a few years ago. I’ve actually had the privilege of seeing them live once before; although, we were late, and only got to see like 3 songs (I made up for it by getting to meet them after their set, though); and I promised myself that I would make it a priority to see them the next time they were anywhere near Atlanta.
After their previous album Swoon took me by storm (and given my previous near miss with their concert), it was a no-brainer that I had to go see them at the Tabernacle this past weekend, and I am more than glad that we went. James loved the show (which is saying something, because he doesn’t really “get” music that often), and all in all, it was an awesome show. It was the first time we decided to sit in the balcony for the show instead of the standing room only “pit” below, and I am glad we did; there was a little too much energy, and way too much crowd surfing for me (especially since I am pretty much exhausted from studying these days). Overall, they are an incredible band, who puts on an incredible show, and I am just glad that we were able to go. Whenever they come back this way, you can bet that I’ll do my best to be there.
music musings, music suggestion, song of the day, you tube
sotd: The National – Bloodbuzz Ohio
by duane • • 2 Comments
I really wanted to do a 5SF Friday yesterday, but things have been crazy since school started this semester. They weren’t joking about the whole accelerated thing. Things should slow down a bit after next week though, and I am definitely looking forward to that (hopefully) happening. With that being said, I just can’t wait any longer to sing my praise for this song…
A couple weeks ago, I saw the video for Bloodbuzz Ohio, and IMMEDIATELY, I loved this song. I know I have heard of The National before, but I can’t say as I ever really paid attention, but I am ALL EARS now. This song is amazing, beautiful, powerful, poetic… so many things really. I absolutely love the deepness of his voice, the vivid prose, and the almost marching percussion of the piano in this song; it is epically beautiful.
After hearing this song from their recently released album, High Violet, I loved it so much I downloaded the whole album; which I was pleased to discover, is full of amazing tracks (I expect to see it on my year end best of list). I’ll probably be kicking myself when I find out I should have known about these guys all along, but believe me when I say, I am on board with The National now. I cannot get enough of this incredible track and their new album, High Violet!
five song friday, music musings, music suggestion
5SF: may 28
by duane • • 3 Comments
Woo hoo! Guess who’s back!! This has been a crazy week for me (literally, 5 tests for school!), but I have made it intact through all of it, and I wanted to celebrate a nice weekend by kicking it off with some great music; especially since it’s been a couple of weeks since the last 5SF. So let’s do this.
Sara Bareilles – King of Anything
What can I say about Sara that I haven’t already said a thousand times? She’s an amazing singer, incredibly talented performer, exquisite singer, and a brilliant song writer. Her debut turned out to be one of my favorite albums of the last decade, and with this new single from her hotly anticipated forthcoming album, Kaleidoscope Heart, she has proven that she still has a lot more amazing pop music to offer us. The song is a cleverly written “fuck you” song, and brilliantly fits within her previous work, and serves as the perfect set up for an exciting new release this fall. I for one cannot wait for her new album, as I have been a huge fan of hers ever since I saw her perform live, and if it is anything like I have come to expect from her in the past, I know that it will probably be one of the best albums of 2010; and if this song is only a testament to that, it’s bound to be! Glad to see that you’re back, and in top form Ms. Bareilles!
Aqualung (feat. Sara Bareilles) – Remember Us
I honestly thought I had posted about this song already; so let me say, what an egregious error I have made by not doing so sooner! This is from the recently released album Magnetic North, from the always quite amazing Aqualung, and I thought it appropriate to post this one today (since I hadn’t already), not only because it’s my favorite track from the album, but also because it is incredibly beautiful (well, that and it allows me to keep the Sara Bareilles love rolling on). I remember seeing Aqualung a few years along with Sara Bareilles, and I never thought that their meeting would turn into a beautiful musical relationship like this. Matt really has proven to be a beautiful song writer, and this collaboration just sends it over the edge; this song is definitely one of his best.
Kylie Minogue – All The Lovers
“Dance, it’s all I wanna do, so won’t you dance? I’m standing here with you, why won’t you move?” Well, since you asked so nicely, Ms. Minogue, I will oblige!! While I don’t consider myself to be a Kylie super-fan, I do enjoy a lot of her music, and her previous release X was probably my favorite of hers thus far. After enjoying that release so much, I was excited to see she would be releasing a new album this summer, and given how much I like the lead single, I think it may be another one I can count amongst my favorites. My favorite part in this song is when she delicately sings that line above at about 2:10 in; beautiful!!
Robyn – Dancing On My Own
This is my, “unless you’ve been living under a rock, you should have heard this amazing, brilliant, pop masterpiece by now, but since I am sure some people haven’t (crazy?!), I have to post it” song. Seriously, Robyn, is a pop GODDESS. I was extremely excited when Fembot came out a few months ago, and the promise of THREE new albums was made for release this year, and so far, all I can do is stop typing, clap my hands in raucous applause, and scream bravo to Robyn. Her previous self-titled release, showed the world of pop music exactly how high the bar could be set, and with these new releases this year, it appears that only Robyn can reach the dizzying heights where she herself placed that very bar. I can’t wait to see how this whole situation plays out this year, because as I predicted even before hearing Body Talk, Part 1, I tentatively called this year musically going to Robyn; and it looks like my prediction is even closer to reality. This song is brilliant music-making people. Take it in!
Sleigh Bells – A/B Machines
Before I even knew who Sleigh Bells were, I got to see them in concert; they opened for Major Lazer a few months ago, and I was at the show early enough that I got to see their set. While I didn’t know who they were when they took the stage, I can definitely say I wanted to know who they were by the time they were done. They were incredible live, and their debut album Treats (which is pretty amazing as well), just came out last month. Overall, this is probably my favorite song from the album, and as I said elsewhere before, it is a song that, if I were a fashion designer, I would send my collection down the runway to. This song is power, raw and unabashed, and it demands attention. I love the well placed scream towards the end of the song that makes me just want to dance all night. I love when I find bands that I have never heard of, and they turn out to be amazing; lucky for me, Sleigh Bells is definitely one of those bands.
I hope you enjoyed today’s 5SF, and as always, let me know what you thought of the picks. Have a great weekend everyone!
music musings, music suggestion, song of the day
sotd: Silversun Pickups – The Royal We
by duane • • 0 Comments
If you followed my countdown of last years top 31 albums, you already know that the Silversun Pickups AMAZING sophomore album, Swoon, came in at number six, and is quite simply put, incredible. While I loved this song when the album was initially released (over a year ago!), a current single release has put it firmly back on my radar; and thank goodness, because this song is utterly brilliant.
I found myself especially in need of some rock and roll motivation this morning heading to my first test of the semester (which I somehow managed to get an A on!), and I found myself blasting a little Silversun Pickups; and it was apparently exactly the pick up up (no pun intended) I needed. I can’t wait to see them at the Tabernacle next month (June 19th) and rock out live to this amazing band (last time I saw them, I only managed to catch a couple songs of their set, but I got to meet them, and they were amazingly nice). I hope this song turns out to be a massive single for them, because it is certainly one of their best, and is a real indicator of the massive talent these guys (and girl!) have; and it totally deserves to be today’s song of the day.
five song friday, music musings, music suggestion, you tube
5SF: may 7
by duane • • 5 Comments
I have been enjoying a well deserved day of relaxation today, after passing my first of two finals for the semester yesterday. One down, one to go!! As always, a big part of relaxation for me is music, and I have some great songs for today’s five song Friday; and with that, let’s get right to the music, shall we?
Toni Braxton – Make My Heart
I’ll be honest, I didn’t like this song the first time I heard it. I don’t know why, because now, I LOVE IT. This song practically begs to be danced to. Perhaps it was because it was kind of different in the way that the chorus really assaults you, and switches up the melody of the song that initially put me off, but regardless of whatever it was, I am completely over it now; this song is truly a floor filler and I am ready to shake my booty to the rhythm. It is hard to sit still when this song is on, because again, it is just such a dance ready song. Toni should be getting some major love for this new single, because it deserves a warm welcome for her coming back to the music scene.
The Pipettes – Stop The Music
The first time I heard this, I was bound to be critical of it, because of how much I loved the Pipettes’ debut album, We Are The Pipettes!. There were a few line up changes, which led to nearly 3 years of delays for new music from them, and the fact that they are pretty much an entirely new band now (one original Pipette remains), had me worried that the Pipettes that I knew and loved would be able to revive the spunk and joy they brought on their wonderful debut album a few years ago. After a couple of listens, I am happy to report that the Pipettes are very much alive, and still have that wonderful something that I fell in love with to begin with. If this is just a taste of what we can expect from their hotly anticipated sophomore album, I can say with certainty, that I really cannot wait for more from the Pipettes! Don’t make me wait much longer ladies!
Melissa Etheridge – Fearless Love
What can I say? Melissa Etheridge is a tried and true musician who has an amazing knack for writing powerful, evocative love songs, and her newest release, Fearless Love, is chock full of great tracks. I have been listening to the entire album ever since it came out last week, and I already think it’s going to make my year end best of list. I’m glad that Melissa still clearly has the gift of making music, and continues putting out excellent albums like she has with this new one. Sometimes, you just need some feel good rock and roll, and Melissa proves that she’s still a staple that you can turn to when that’s just what you crave.
Charice – Pyramid
I absolutely love this girl. The first time I heard this song, I couldn’t deny the clear similarity to JoJo, but I have to say, Charice and her producers were brilliant in their using this song as a single; they reel you in with the familiarity of JoJo, and blow you away with Charice’s vocal talent. The song itself is just different enough, that it stands on its own as something fresh, and the song is undeniably, completely radio-ready. The part that really won me over is around 2:49 in the song where she completely wails, and her amazing vocals give me chills each time I listen to this song. This girl can sing, and she has made herself a wonderful single that should (with any justice) be burning up the charts in the coming months. Hopefully the inclusion of Iyaz (while it is completely unnecessary for the song) will give it some “reputable” traction, and get this gem on the radio!
Foxy Shazam – Oh Lord
What would you get if you blended the Darkness, Queen, and threw in a dash of Mika? Why, you’d have the exuberance of Foxy Shazam. I love the blended melodies, and the way they have used so many different musical elements (piano, guitar, horns, drums, oh my!) on this track, and I especially love how lead vocalist carries this song right over the top (but in a good way!). The lead singer’s swagger certainly reminds me a lot of Freddie Mercury, which makes that Queen reference even more relevant. This is certainly a fun song, and one that is best listened to loudly, and I have been enjoying it more and more in the recent weeks. Also be sure to check out the video for the song, which had me swooning for the piano player when he throws that look into the camera at 2:10. Oh yeah! Oh yeah! Keep on keeping on!
Well, what did you think of this week’s five song Friday? As always, be sure to comment and let me know, and also let me know what you are listening to as well!
music musings, music suggestion, song of the day, you tube
sotd: Florence + The Machine – Dog Days Are Over
by duane • • 2 Comments
I owe my friend Deb an apology on this one. She was screaming about how amazing Florence + The Machine were practically all of last year (and even named Lungs as her album of the year), but for whatever reason, I wasn’t ever able to get into as much as she did. Well, that has all changed, as it seems I can’t get enough of Florence + The Machine these days; better late than never, though, right?
I think my finally coming around was especially helped by this amazing video for Dog Days Are Over:
Wow. This is one talented woman, whose 2009 album Lungs SHOULD have had one of the higher spots on my year end best of list, but because I wasn’t as into it as I should have been at the time, it was sadly overlooked (I did like it, but it didn’t even make my top 31; which I now realize is a glaring omission on my part). I am saying today, that I am sorry that it wasn’t included, and it is a great regret of mine that I didn’t heap the praise that it truly still deserves on it at the time I should have. Deb, you were right!! Florence + The Machine are amazing!
five song friday, music musings, music suggestion
5SF: april 16
by duane • • 3 Comments
It’s that time again, and I’ve got you five new songs for this Friday. Today’s selection is a little all over the place (some of it is a little out there, I’m warning you!), but each song deserves some love, as I have been digging each of these tracks lately. Let’s get started, shall we?
Keane (feat. K’naan) – Stop For A Minute
I have this strange relationship with Keane; most of their stuff falls under my radar, but every once and while, they release a MAJOR single that completely captures my attention. Last time that happened was when they released the massive Spiralling, and I literally couldn’t get enough of that song. Now, they have done it again with this insanely catchy track, which has one of the best choruses of any song on the radio right now. While I’m not super hype on the rap portion of the song, the massive chorus won me over instantly, and has me playing this song on major repeat right now. This is definitely one to roll the windows down and blast as you ride around enjoying the beautiful spring weather we are having right now.
Kelis – Acapella
While I will openly admit that this one took a while to grow on me, it has managed to take me completely by storm over the past couple of weeks. The more I hear this song, the more I love it. The beat begs to be danced to, and I like how fresh and different it is from most of the other stuff circling the airwaves out there right now. While Bossy will probably (see definitely) always be my favorite of Kelis’ songs, this one certainly highlights the fact that Kelis is not a shot in the pan; she has changed her style and done something brilliant in every endeavor she has taken musically. I can’t wait to see what her upcoming release, Flesh Tone (out July 6) has in store for us.
Jónsi – Go Do
Remember earlier when I said that there was some stuff that would be a little “out there” this week? Well, here it is. This ethereal track is from the recently released solo album, Go, from the lead singer of the Icelandic rock band, Sigur Rós. While I really can’t understand most of what he is singing in this song, I absolutely love the beautiful vocals and the accompanying airy and fanciful music. The first time I heard this, I had a bit of a WTF moment, but I will admit that I was instantly turned around, and was kicking myself for my doubt by the end of the song; this song is awesome. There’s definitely some strange stuff going on in Iceland, as evidenced by this, and the type of music fellow Icelander Björk makes. However, after hearing this, I honestly think that the Icelandic strange is the kind of strange that I am pretty sure that I love; after all, I love a lot of Björk’s music, and I find myself really loving this as well. Side note: apparently, he’s openly gay, so that’s a bonus to be featuring an out artist today!
Sia – Clap Your Hands
Sia managed to fly under my radar for almost a year, only to take me by storm with her previous release, Some People Have Real Problems. As such, I was pretty excited to see that her next release, We Are Born will be released very soon (June 7th to be exact). Subsequently, when I heard this song, which is the lead single from the upcoming album, I was a bit on the fence; I didn’t love it instantly. However, Sia has proven to be a grower for me, and that is exactly what happened with this one; it has really grown on me, and I am loving it more with each listen. This one is definitely more upbeat for her, but it works, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the new album has in store.
Laura Marling – Rambling Man
I have fellow music blogger xolondon to thank for turning me onto this amazing song. He posted the video for this song (which is filled to the brim with a shirtless, burly man; that certainly got my attention!), and rightly pegged this as Laura so amazingly channeling Joni Mitchell, for which I have nothing but praise and admiration. This song is a triumph, and I think that Joni would be proud that Laura is making music like this today. This song is well written, and beautiful, and I am truly delighted to have been turned on to it. Thanks xolondon for schooling me on the delicate beauty of Laura Marling! (note: I posted a Laura Marling song in the past, but her new stuff had completely flown outside of my radar; until now.)
Well, there you have it; another five song Friday in the bag. What did you think? As always, let me know what you thought, and why not throw in a few suggestions of your own while you are at it? I hope you enjoyed these songs as much as enjoyed bringing them to you… until next time!