I've had a ton of good blog ideas lately, but the Lydia post has kept me from adding more lately. It's tough to let go of them, but I've got a strong enough reason to now: another fantastic concert, perhaps the best one of them all. Wednesday night (the 15th), my buddy Trevor and I went to the Sherwood w/ The Dangerous Summer concert. What a show! Three amazing bands opened for them including Soletta, a new favorite of mine. Then the Dangerous Summer came on (honestly the group I was most excited for) and I belted out lyrics like I never have before. When they finished up, I got to talk to all of the members when they came back to their merch booth. I got a poster and personally had it signed by all four! Honestly one of the coolest moments of my life. Next up was Sherwood, who had some awesome live tricks. Their keyboardist jumped on his keyboard and accidentally knocked over the guitarist's huge amp in the middle of a song, it was hilarious! It was getting late so we left before Sherwood finished, but, all in all, it was an amazing experience. Here's a rough overview for ya:
1. To The Ends Of The Earth by Soletta
"If my ship loses sail, I will row to the ends of the Earth. Though I know I may never return, I still go and I give it my best because every stumble and fall, I will know I have given my all."
When I saw that Soletta was gonna be in the concert, I decided to look them up. From what I heard in the samples, I was excited for them. When they finished playing, I ended up getting two CD's. Yep, they were that good. Here's one of their songs I remember from the concert best.
2. This Road - Soletta
"We both know time is anything but slow."
This seems to be Soletta's most popular song. It didn't stick out to me much at first, but it's quickly catching on my mind. I remember the bassist rocking out hard to this one, hard enough to knock over his mic. He was too cool for words (this concert was a huge one for bass guitarists, which are my idols! The bass players for The Dangerous Summer and Sherwood are both the lead singers!). See what you think bout this tune.
*3. Where You Belong - Soletta
"It's the ones you love that mean the most and need you more than you could ever know or say."
This one, on the other hand, had me hooked right away. This song alone pushed me to purchase the CDs, and Soletta's tunes have not let me down. This singer has such a cool voice that fits so well with the style of music. Another amazing group I'm proud to have in my musical collection. (By the way, Soletta has this love song called Only You that is shockingly sweet, but wasn't performed at the concert...check it out anyway!)
4. Maybe This Time - Sherwood
"If I made a list of every chance I've missed, what would that accomplish?"
The Dangerous Summer played next, but they were so awesome that I've got to save them for last here on my blog post. Here's the song Sherwood started out with. Because I didn't really recognize the members and was matching the voice to the singer for the first time, I didn't enjoy these guys quite as much as The Dangerous Summer, even though I love their songs just as much. Still, Sherwood's performance has boosted my love for them and has brought some of the song I overlooked to the forefront of my mind. This song's one of them. (You must check out this music video, it's hilarious!...but can't be embedded here)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GKiy1-BU00
5. Make It Through - Sherwood
"I can't find where I belong without you."
On this song, Sherwood invited anyone who knew the lyrics to come up and sing with them. My biggest regret of the night was being too chicken to join them. Only 2 or three fans went up, along with some of the members of the other bands. It was super cool seeing the Soletta bass player, the Dangerous Summer drummer, and the merch people all up their singing along with Sherwood. Next time, I won't be so wimpy.
6. Middle Of The Night - Sherwood
"Tonight I'm wondering how this could've felt so right."
I'm super glad they decided to play this one from their earlier album, because just a few weeks ago it suddenly became one of my favorites from that CD. (PS I've only known these guys since my birthday this year, which is when I got their two latest albums) The chorus is so awesome! This is probably the rockiest Sherwood music gets too, which was extra fun to see live. Check it out.
*7. Ground Beneath My Feet - Sherwood
"If I knew my time would come, with lines rehearsed, but never sung, I'd leave the chorus on your tongue. I swear."
This is the biggie. The one Trevor and I were searching for. Oh, a bit of interesting info: One day, while driving home together from Darrell's place, Trevor said to me something like "Have you heard of Sherwood". He proceeded hook his ipod up in my car and play this song. That's right: Trevor introduced me to Sherwood, and there we were, rocking out 15 feet from them. Pretty dang cool. I've shared this song on here before, but iy deserves another go. I recorded this song live in full and have it posted on my facebook profile, if you're interested in seeing it.
8. Northern Lights - The Dangerous Summer
"I hate staying up late cause you're not here and I'm not there."
The Dangerous Summer! I never thought I would be so ecstatic to see them on stage! And then talking to them at length right after? Priceless! Just like with Lydia, I've only known these guys since Christmas, which is when I picked up their latest album. I can't believe I've grown so fond of those two bands in such a short amount of time like I have! This song right here used to be pretty emotional for me. It's a sweet tune with amazing lyrics. The Dangerous Summer's first few seconds of it brought the memories rushing back. I LOVE this song and, as embarassed as I might be to say it, I can't wait to share it with that special someone. It's just that sort of song, you know? Don't miss out.
9. Symmetry - The Dangerous Summer
"I was always in a way just a long shot. I was never in the clear of that. I am lucky just to be a potential, but I will always make a mess of that."
This is one of the tunes that stuck out to me very soon after I found these guys. It's one I can relate to, sadly, but also one where I quickly came to know all of the thoughtful lyrics by heart. I would say that this one highlights AJ's amazing lyric writing skills, but when I think about it I realize that every song does. Their the sort you really ought to pay attention to and think about, which, as you all know, is one of my favorite things to do!
10. Never Feel Alone - The Dangerous Summer
"A feeling's just a feeling 'til you let it get the best of who you are."
This is an amazing love song too, but with more of a sad message to it. I never really saw it as super emotional until I saw AJ singing it live. He's my hero! My memory keeps flashing back to the moment he grabbed my hand to shake it and thanked me for coming. Awesome! No other vocalist can write lyrics quite like his, much less pull off the expression of them quite like he does.
11. Surfaced - The Dangerous Summer
"I haven't found what I've been looking for yet, but you can count on me to stay forever."
Every Dangerous Summer chorus is so easy to become addicted to. The melodies behind them flow so nicely, as do the lyrics, which are always jam-packed with meaning. They're all so distinct and easily recognizable. This one is especially catchy. As with every Dangerous Summer song, the lyrics have a lot to share. I feel that I can say they are the better than those of any other band I've ever heard so yeah...good stuff. Give em a listen.
*12. Where I Want To Be - The Dangerous Summer
"It's in the way you had me all wrapped up like I'm a part of something finally and I'm never looking back."
Anyone remember my "best songs of 2009 countdown"? This song was number 2, but I feel now that I should go back and make it number one. I've listened to this song 100 + times, which may not sound super impressive, but that puts it in the top 0.5 % of my songs. It's got one of my favorite music videos (my most watched for sure), it's one of my favorite love songs, and it has some of my favorite lyrics of all time. It shows off the guitarists, the singer, has an amazing drum solo...few tunes beat this one. Definitely one of my top ten songs of all time. I've put it on my blog before, but let's face it: it should go up here every time! I'll have to give it more thought, but this just might be my favorite live song I've ever seen! I've got the whole video up on my facebook profile, so please check it out!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_K1lywPZms
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Songs of the Moment 8/23/10 - Tribute to Lydia
If you're reading this, it's probable that in the past three months you've seen me talk about a little band called Lydia somewhere in my facebook status posts. My goal here is to tell you guys what's been going on with them and also to convince you of just how amazing they are. This isn't just another band I'm into...this is the band I've been thoroughly obsessed with for a good three months now, which is the time since I first heard their bad news. I guess I'll start at the beginning of my experience with them.
I first found Lydia, a seven-year-old band from Arizona, just before this past Christmas and got their second album as a Christmas gift. I gave it quite a few listens, but never really caught on to any particular songs. At that time it was just another album that I could pick up again when other tunes didn't seem too interesting. It stayed that way until June. Mid-June, I found out that Lydia had lost their second female vocalist/keyboardist, Mindy White, who left to start her own musical project called "States" with two former members of the band Copeland (I'm a huge fan of hers). Lydia had also lost their bassist, leaving a crippled, half-Lydia behind. Just about a week after I did all of this research, Leighton (the lead singer) announced that after a final album (without Mindy) and a farewell tour across the nation, Lydia would disband forever. Soon after, in the middle of the tour, Lydia lost their lead guitarist, further saddening the end of Lydia. Despite my lack of true passion for them at the time, this news made me quite upset. When I frantically scrolled through the listed tour dates, I found SLC included in the final week of the tour. I promised myself that day I would do everything I could to be there.
Here I am now, that concert was last Friday, August 20th, THE best day of my entire summer. After their last concert this Saturday, they are gone. I feel that I can truly say to you right now that Lydia is my favorite band. I want so badly to share a bit of them with you, so here you go: a history of Lydia. Out of these ten amazing songs are 2 from the first album, called This December; It's One More and I'm Free, 6 from the second (Illuminate), and 2 from the very recently released third titled Assailants. Enjoy.
1. It's In Your Blood
"The sun is up and taking back all the shadows that covered this ground."
As soon as I heard the bad news, I started looking up stuff from Lydia's first album, which is very hard to get a hold of, but thankfully included on YouTube in it's entirety. This is the first one I came across in that search and I'd say this is the song that finally started up my full realization of how beautiful Lydia's stuff really is. Check it out! (oh and this is not Mindy in the background. It's their first vocalist Maria Sais De Sicilia, who has an equally beautiful voice.)
2. A Camera Lens and Careful Days
3. This Is Twice Now
"The whole world is still on my string."
This one's the biggie right here. Search on Lydia's myspace and you'll see that this song has just short of 2 million plays. Throughout the concert, fans were shouting "This Is Twice Now" as a request. It was the final song Lydia played in their encore. I've enjoyed it so much more after that experience. Whatever you do, don't miss this one.
4. All I See
"You will never waste my time."
This is my personal favorite Lydia song, the best of the best. I listened to this song a ton after I had heard about the split-up, and I was disappointed that they didn't play it at the concert. Still, twenty years down the line when I remember the end of Lydia, I know this will be the song that comes to mind.
5. I Woke Up Near The Sea
"And so I woke up near the sea, sailing in my dreams."
This song is super empowering for me. I clearly recall the excitement I felt when I belted the lyrics out at the concert. It's the first song I ever heard from Lydia and the one that encouraged me to start looking into them. (***This song does have a not-easily discernable swear word in it, but if you don't like that stuff, I still encourage you to catch the first minute of it to check out what the band looks like, especially because this is the only actual music video they ever recorded...oh, and isn't Mindy gorgeous!?)
6. Now The One You Once Loved is Leaving
"How quick to forget we are."
This is the only Mindy-led Lydia song, and it was a big disappointment to know there was no chance of catching this one live. Starting at around 2:30 (in the song), this tune is the ultimate example of the beauty in Lydia's sound. Mindy's every note is so perfect. There is simply nothing that can capture me quite like those few minutes of music. Don't miss it.
7. A Fine Evening For A Rogue
"Don't you ever get lonely?"
I distinctly remember this tune at the concert. Leighton left his voice out of almost every chorus so that the crowd could sing it out loud, which was the most memorable moment of the night. (By the way, he said that we, the SLC crowd, was their biggest audience out of every show they had in the nation this summer. He also assured us that he wasn't just saying that to make us feel good about ourselves. How awesome is that!?) I really wish you all could have been there to witness it.
8. Stay Awake
"Live it up."
I feel this one best shows off Leighton's voice. The passion he put into his performance was super inspirational and extra noticeable in this song. He looked so happy throughout this song (oh I've got videos of almost every song in the concert if you want to hit me up one day).
9. Assailants
"I can't seem to kill my assailants. They keep changing faces."
In a way, Lydia's latest album wasn't as good as the other two. It didn't have Mindy in it at all and only featured five full-length songs including this fantastic title track, which I find neatly describes the end of Lydia. Still, these tunes form an excellent farewell gift to Lydia fans across the nation. In Leighton's opinion, it was the perfect way to fulfill the potential of Lydia's unique sound. Thankfully, he has told his fans that he is definitely going to move on to other musical projects. If he ever starts anything else up, I'll let you guys know. Long live Leighton!
10. We Clean Up So Well
"I love what I am seeing."
I first found Lydia, a seven-year-old band from Arizona, just before this past Christmas and got their second album as a Christmas gift. I gave it quite a few listens, but never really caught on to any particular songs. At that time it was just another album that I could pick up again when other tunes didn't seem too interesting. It stayed that way until June. Mid-June, I found out that Lydia had lost their second female vocalist/keyboardist, Mindy White, who left to start her own musical project called "States" with two former members of the band Copeland (I'm a huge fan of hers). Lydia had also lost their bassist, leaving a crippled, half-Lydia behind. Just about a week after I did all of this research, Leighton (the lead singer) announced that after a final album (without Mindy) and a farewell tour across the nation, Lydia would disband forever. Soon after, in the middle of the tour, Lydia lost their lead guitarist, further saddening the end of Lydia. Despite my lack of true passion for them at the time, this news made me quite upset. When I frantically scrolled through the listed tour dates, I found SLC included in the final week of the tour. I promised myself that day I would do everything I could to be there.
Here I am now, that concert was last Friday, August 20th, THE best day of my entire summer. After their last concert this Saturday, they are gone. I feel that I can truly say to you right now that Lydia is my favorite band. I want so badly to share a bit of them with you, so here you go: a history of Lydia. Out of these ten amazing songs are 2 from the first album, called This December; It's One More and I'm Free, 6 from the second (Illuminate), and 2 from the very recently released third titled Assailants. Enjoy.
1. It's In Your Blood
"The sun is up and taking back all the shadows that covered this ground."
As soon as I heard the bad news, I started looking up stuff from Lydia's first album, which is very hard to get a hold of, but thankfully included on YouTube in it's entirety. This is the first one I came across in that search and I'd say this is the song that finally started up my full realization of how beautiful Lydia's stuff really is. Check it out! (oh and this is not Mindy in the background. It's their first vocalist Maria Sais De Sicilia, who has an equally beautiful voice.)
2. A Camera Lens and Careful Days
"I thought I showed you the reason that all I truly want is to get in your head and steal your imagery. "
This song didn't really catch my attention until they played it at the concert. I actually think it was much better live than in this recording, even though there were no female vocals at the concert. It was while they were playing this song that Leighton became one of my greatest heroes. That guy is too cool for words.
This song didn't really catch my attention until they played it at the concert. I actually think it was much better live than in this recording, even though there were no female vocals at the concert. It was while they were playing this song that Leighton became one of my greatest heroes. That guy is too cool for words.
3. This Is Twice Now
"The whole world is still on my string."
This one's the biggie right here. Search on Lydia's myspace and you'll see that this song has just short of 2 million plays. Throughout the concert, fans were shouting "This Is Twice Now" as a request. It was the final song Lydia played in their encore. I've enjoyed it so much more after that experience. Whatever you do, don't miss this one.
4. All I See
"You will never waste my time."
This is my personal favorite Lydia song, the best of the best. I listened to this song a ton after I had heard about the split-up, and I was disappointed that they didn't play it at the concert. Still, twenty years down the line when I remember the end of Lydia, I know this will be the song that comes to mind.
5. I Woke Up Near The Sea
"And so I woke up near the sea, sailing in my dreams."
This song is super empowering for me. I clearly recall the excitement I felt when I belted the lyrics out at the concert. It's the first song I ever heard from Lydia and the one that encouraged me to start looking into them. (***This song does have a not-easily discernable swear word in it, but if you don't like that stuff, I still encourage you to catch the first minute of it to check out what the band looks like, especially because this is the only actual music video they ever recorded...oh, and isn't Mindy gorgeous!?)
6. Now The One You Once Loved is Leaving
"How quick to forget we are."
This is the only Mindy-led Lydia song, and it was a big disappointment to know there was no chance of catching this one live. Starting at around 2:30 (in the song), this tune is the ultimate example of the beauty in Lydia's sound. Mindy's every note is so perfect. There is simply nothing that can capture me quite like those few minutes of music. Don't miss it.
7. A Fine Evening For A Rogue
"Don't you ever get lonely?"
I distinctly remember this tune at the concert. Leighton left his voice out of almost every chorus so that the crowd could sing it out loud, which was the most memorable moment of the night. (By the way, he said that we, the SLC crowd, was their biggest audience out of every show they had in the nation this summer. He also assured us that he wasn't just saying that to make us feel good about ourselves. How awesome is that!?) I really wish you all could have been there to witness it.
8. Stay Awake
"Live it up."
I feel this one best shows off Leighton's voice. The passion he put into his performance was super inspirational and extra noticeable in this song. He looked so happy throughout this song (oh I've got videos of almost every song in the concert if you want to hit me up one day).
9. Assailants
"I can't seem to kill my assailants. They keep changing faces."
In a way, Lydia's latest album wasn't as good as the other two. It didn't have Mindy in it at all and only featured five full-length songs including this fantastic title track, which I find neatly describes the end of Lydia. Still, these tunes form an excellent farewell gift to Lydia fans across the nation. In Leighton's opinion, it was the perfect way to fulfill the potential of Lydia's unique sound. Thankfully, he has told his fans that he is definitely going to move on to other musical projects. If he ever starts anything else up, I'll let you guys know. Long live Leighton!
10. We Clean Up So Well
"I love what I am seeing."
This is the song that Lydia opened with, the perfect way to pump up the crowd. This has got to be my favorite from the latest album. It's chorus is definitely the one I love singing along to the most. (***This one has a single, but very clear swear word at 0:49. The rest of the song is clean.)
So there you go, tell me what you think! As Lydia ends it's highly acclaimed farewell tour and leaves their wonderful music behind for us to remember them by, so too will I end the majority of my Lydia hype and leave a bit of their memory in this post. At the end of Leighton's unfortunate announcement on the Lydia Myspace page, he thanks his fans, ending his lengthy post with these words: "You truly have affected my life in ways you will never know." Right now I want to flip that statement right back at him and the rest of the Lydia crew. Lydia, you truly have affected my life in ways you will never know. I won't ever forget you Lydia. Farewell.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Songs of the Moment 6/15/10 - Summer Ballads
My playlist for last summer was epic. I recently looked at it, remembering the good times that went along with the tunes included, and decided it would be extremely hard to beat. Over the last week, with new music coming at me from all directions (my dad getting 4 new albums, me getting 6 new albums and 4 new EPs), I've been able to create an impressive mix. Is it better than last year's? Only time will tell, for it's the upcoming memories that will be made that decide it all. One thing's for sure, it's got the potential. I've got tunes for the bright days, tunes for the mellow sunsets, tunes for the exciting nights...Check them out if you've got the time and feel free to add them to your own summer tune collections! Highlights this week are Waiting, Black and Gold, and Closer. (Embedding is disabled on a couple of these so check the links too)
1. Black and Gold - Sam Sparro
"If you're not really here, I don't want to be either. I want to be next to you."
Huge thanks to Casey Bingham for this one! Sam Sparro...I honestly thought he was black before seeing the music video, and he's Australian to boot...further evidence of just how amazing and unique his voice is. The bass foundation/treble syncopation in this song create something so infectious, I love it. I dare you not to tap your foot! Awesome lyrics here as well...
don't miss out the grooviness Sparro has to offer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHuebHTD-lY
2. Clap Your Hands - Sia
"This is life and we only get one chance."
This is the single from Sia's album, which comes out in exactly a week. I can't tell you how excited I am. In the crazy, disturbing female pop artist category, Sia has the likes of Lady Gaga and Katy Perry beat by a long shot, just watch this insanely awesome music video and you'll understand. I've been enjoying this song since my first listen and I love the more electronic approach that Sia seems to be taking with it, which she seems to be doing much better than some of my other favorites recently have (curse you Keane and Gorillaz!!!). So yeah...listen, love it, clap your hands to it. It's that easy.
3. Closer - Jars of Clay
"I'm the O and the E, you're the L and the V. Am I speaking clearly?"
I'm super happy with this find, was just doing some exploring via YouTube's related videos column and BAM!...a super catchy song that's stuck in my head for the rest of the day. Don't you just love when that happens? Well no worries because I chose this song to welcome you to my blog hoping that the same will happen to you! Uber devious...I know. I'm a huge fan of the mix of conventional instruments with electronic sounds. Jars of Clay pulled it off so well that I actually bought this EP and I'm quite pleased. Let this song get closer to you.
4. Daylight - Remedy Drive
"Hold on 'til the sunrise."
So my dad let me pick up a few summer albums for all of my hard work maintaining for 4.0 and all. I ordered 5 albums off of Amazon and have throughly listened to all of them except for the one from Remedy Drive, which mysteriously is the only one that didn't arrive. So, as I suffer through the anticipation, I'll let you enjoy the song that convinced me to choose this album. I never get sick of . "Daylight is coming" ---the makings of a true summer song right there. Check it out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsAf2isFAwg
5. Gimme Sympathy (Acoustic) - Metric
"I can feel it in my bones."
Gimme Sympathy was THE summer song for me last year. For those of you who keep up with my blog, you might also remember that this song snatched 3rd place in my favorite songs of 2009. I've honestly gotten some happy tears out of that one, so yeah, it's a big deal...and now, at the dawn of a new summer season, I stumble across the acoustic version on Metric's fabulous new acoustic EP. Perfect! I kind of want to say I like it better than the original, but I know I can't...it's hard to explain, but each version seems so independently fantastic to me for separate reasons that they just can't really be compared. Gimme sympathy by telling me what you think.
For those of you interested, here's the original.
6. Hannah - Freelance Whales
"Please don't play the matchmaker. Please don't be a player hater. If you dig her recent work, then you should go congratulate her."
This was a free discovery download on iTunes a couple weeks back, for those of you who missed it (probably everyone), I'm terribly sorry. I actually would have missed it myself if my good bussy Trevor Wilson hadn't have given me the heads up. I always paired this song with Closer in my mind, it's got a similar, yet very different alternative/electronic mix. The quick-moving voice also makes for a very catchy melody. See what you think about it. (We've also got a nifty fan-created music video here for you...dang I wish I could draw.)
7. I Am Not a Robot - Marina & the Diamonds
"Better to be hated than loved for what you're not."
This song was the featured free single of the week on iTunes the same week that I picked up Hannah. iTunes made some pretty brilliant selections that week...When I picked out my five albums, Marina & the Diamonds came real, real close. For now, I'll enjoy I Am Not a Robot, which I have continually been reminding myself when times are tough. (Don't worry Kyle! You are not a robot so it's all good!). This one's got an excellent, groovy mix of instruments all outshined by a wonderfully unique voice. On top of that, it's got the sort of quirkiness I often find myself craving. Enjoy!
8. Infinite Arms - Band of Horses
"...and my thoughts drift to you."
Band of Horses, I've enjoyed their previous stuff for sure, but many of the songs were just too folky for me. Their album that came out last month has drawn me into the folk vibe and made me love it. This song, which shares it's name with the album itself, is on the less folky/more outstanding side of the new songs. The chorus is so overwhelming and the lyrics so fitting for me personally...it would be too much if there were such a thing as too much, but that isn't the case when it comes to musical excellence. Let this song fall into your infinite arms. (They are ripping this one off the internet left and right so you'll have to enjoy a live version)
9. Inhfsa - Kyte
"Thank you for the best time."
I just spelled the title wrong about eight different ways when searching for it on YouTube so yeah, don't even ask me what it means. I've recently found myself being converted about it the realm of electronic music, and I particularly love this band because of how close their name is to mine and because of how well this style fits into my unique taste for music. I downloaded their latest album via iTunes (these guys are so abscure that I found no way of getting a hard copy) and the whole thing creates this fabulous mood that will work perfectly with some of the memories I know I'll be making soon. I hope you think of this song next time you inhfsa your inhfsa. (haha, these song reference jokes are great)
10. New Morning - Alpha Rev
"Have you heard who you are?"
Geez, talk about a powerful summer ballad...here's a near epitemy of the summer experience. The acoustic guitar, the orchestral backing, the super sweet voice and lyrics...it's all right here. This album came out only a few weeks ago and it's the second of the five I recently picked up. It includes a lot of similarly summer-suited songs that those of you out of the hunt might be interested in giving a shot. Remember: I really don't want you guys to limit yourselves to these songs. If you like a song, chances are you're going to like a lot of other stuff from that artist, so be adventurous! It pays off! I would know...
11. Numbered Days - See The World
"Live for this moment one day at a time."
This is one of my more mellow summer tunes. I picked up this six-song EP just before school got out and I really hope to get more time to listen to it soon (rushes of new music do have their disadvantages). This song particularly attracted my attention with its cool, meaningful lyrics and nice beat. The piano addition and bass guitar prominence are also commendable features behind it. It's artists like these that I wish had more of a chance out in the musical world because they deserve to get out there. Maybe you guys can help me out with that, but first: listen.
12. On A Good Day - Oceanlab
"How I wish I knew me better."
This is from the third of my five albums, which is completely different from the four other (all alternative) albums. This is my nighttime driving music, my soft electronic jams. Oceanlab has me shouting "Trance!" at random times throughout the day. I'm falling in love with it! Every song from their album gives a really cool and unique feeling, but I'm sharing this song because it's the one that convinced me to make the purchase. I can't get enough of struggle between the serene voice, delightful piano, and powerful bass beats. I'm looking forward to exploring some more trance on a good (summer) day.
13. Swans - Unkle Bob
"I want you to know that I can't let you go."
In a recent blog post, I shared another song from these guys as my "newest addiction". That addiction led to this, my fourth of the five albums. Unkle Bob's name is a bit misleading. This is some of the most mellow, down-to-earth stuff you'll ever hear. It's definitely some of the best acoustic stuff I've ever come across, and the addition of strings completes the mix to make an incredibly beautiful song. Ooh when that cello part comes in...I get the chills every time. Then it all comes back 'round for the slightly heavier finale...awesome. Check it out!
14. Tell 'Em - Sleigh Bells
"All the kids these days...do you really want to be that way?"
Hahaha...this song. Just heard it yesterday after I remembered seeing the album on the iTunes top ten a couple weeks back. Strangely enough, I heard it only because my dad got the CD...weird, I know. After about a dozen playthroughs, I still can't decide if it's amazing or annoying. This is one for passing on to your friends. Tell 'Em Kyle sent you. (Those faint of heart should not listen...I'm not kidding)
15. Waiting - The Morning Of
"You're everything to me."
Ah The Morning Of, the last of my wiesly selected five new CDs. I've loved tunes from these guys from before, but when I saw they had a new album come out last month, it was an instant yes. My newfound admiration and passion for these guys is best expressed in a few easy-to-understand words: new favorite band. The male/female vocal duets (my favorite!), the perfection of each and every song, the feel-good summer vibe, the powerful, heartfelt, sincerely expressed lyrics, the spectacular piano parts, the lone trumpet solo...it all makes me a bit speechless. I'm already "waiting" for their next release! Do me a favor and check this one out, if any at all.
16. Walking On Stones - Stellamaris (renamed New Frontier)
"For too long I have been in a dream."
So I have been keeping an eye on this Stellamaris group for a while and finally decided to buy their EP, which was the only thing I had ever been able to find from them. Turns out they've given themselves a new name and now stir up the musical scene as New Frontier and have much more to offer. I just barely found that out...no joke. Despite how much that frustrates me, I've really enjoyed the six songs on that EP. Unfortunately, I haven't listened to them all that much simply because they didn't shine quite as bright as all of this other new stuff. Now that I go back and really give them a focused listen, I regret not noticing the beauty earlier. Walking On Stones is the perfect example of the talent behind this group (call them what you will).
17. You And Your Heart - Jack Johnson
"You and your heart shouldn't be so far apart."
Oh boy, here it goes: Jack Johnson, round 2. My dad got the new album without me knowing it had even come out. I immediately placed myself in the mindset that I was going to find a way to grow to love Jack's music no matter what and after a few listens I was convinced that Jack Johnson had fully converted me to his style. Then, after a few more focused, critical listens, I went right back to my same viewpoint. I'm trying hard for you guys, but I'm failing. The simple style is just too...simple. The words are (dare I say) amateur. I know that's how Jack Johnson wants to be and he succeeds that way, but I'm not buying it when one of his songs is centered on the lyrics "pictures of people taking pictures of people taking pictures of people taking pictures...". Don't get me wrong, with this album I am starting to like him a lot more and it offers a few more excellent tunes. I guess that the fact that I continue to include in my blog...despite my disappointment, is a sure sign that he's growing on me. Only time will tell, but for now enjoy You And Your Heart, a surprisingly brilliant mix of vocals, guitar, and piano. Wait, maybe he's trying to tell me something with these lyrics...
So there it is, one of the best playlists I've ever put up here and undoubtedly the most massive blog post I've ever completed (it took me 3 1/2 hours so be grateful). For those of you who made it this far, I commend you. Now get out there and enjoy your summer. Find some summer tunes of your own and you'll be surprised how much more memorable it will end up becoming!
1. Black and Gold - Sam Sparro
"If you're not really here, I don't want to be either. I want to be next to you."
Huge thanks to Casey Bingham for this one! Sam Sparro...I honestly thought he was black before seeing the music video, and he's Australian to boot...further evidence of just how amazing and unique his voice is. The bass foundation/treble syncopation in this song create something so infectious, I love it. I dare you not to tap your foot! Awesome lyrics here as well...
don't miss out the grooviness Sparro has to offer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHuebHTD-lY
2. Clap Your Hands - Sia
"This is life and we only get one chance."
This is the single from Sia's album, which comes out in exactly a week. I can't tell you how excited I am. In the crazy, disturbing female pop artist category, Sia has the likes of Lady Gaga and Katy Perry beat by a long shot, just watch this insanely awesome music video and you'll understand. I've been enjoying this song since my first listen and I love the more electronic approach that Sia seems to be taking with it, which she seems to be doing much better than some of my other favorites recently have (curse you Keane and Gorillaz!!!). So yeah...listen, love it, clap your hands to it. It's that easy.
3. Closer - Jars of Clay
"I'm the O and the E, you're the L and the V. Am I speaking clearly?"
I'm super happy with this find, was just doing some exploring via YouTube's related videos column and BAM!...a super catchy song that's stuck in my head for the rest of the day. Don't you just love when that happens? Well no worries because I chose this song to welcome you to my blog hoping that the same will happen to you! Uber devious...I know. I'm a huge fan of the mix of conventional instruments with electronic sounds. Jars of Clay pulled it off so well that I actually bought this EP and I'm quite pleased. Let this song get closer to you.
4. Daylight - Remedy Drive
"Hold on 'til the sunrise."
So my dad let me pick up a few summer albums for all of my hard work maintaining for 4.0 and all. I ordered 5 albums off of Amazon and have throughly listened to all of them except for the one from Remedy Drive, which mysteriously is the only one that didn't arrive. So, as I suffer through the anticipation, I'll let you enjoy the song that convinced me to choose this album. I never get sick of . "Daylight is coming" ---the makings of a true summer song right there. Check it out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsAf2isFAwg
5. Gimme Sympathy (Acoustic) - Metric
"I can feel it in my bones."
Gimme Sympathy was THE summer song for me last year. For those of you who keep up with my blog, you might also remember that this song snatched 3rd place in my favorite songs of 2009. I've honestly gotten some happy tears out of that one, so yeah, it's a big deal...and now, at the dawn of a new summer season, I stumble across the acoustic version on Metric's fabulous new acoustic EP. Perfect! I kind of want to say I like it better than the original, but I know I can't...it's hard to explain, but each version seems so independently fantastic to me for separate reasons that they just can't really be compared. Gimme sympathy by telling me what you think.
For those of you interested, here's the original.
6. Hannah - Freelance Whales
"Please don't play the matchmaker. Please don't be a player hater. If you dig her recent work, then you should go congratulate her."
This was a free discovery download on iTunes a couple weeks back, for those of you who missed it (probably everyone), I'm terribly sorry. I actually would have missed it myself if my good bussy Trevor Wilson hadn't have given me the heads up. I always paired this song with Closer in my mind, it's got a similar, yet very different alternative/electronic mix. The quick-moving voice also makes for a very catchy melody. See what you think about it. (We've also got a nifty fan-created music video here for you...dang I wish I could draw.)
7. I Am Not a Robot - Marina & the Diamonds
"Better to be hated than loved for what you're not."
This song was the featured free single of the week on iTunes the same week that I picked up Hannah. iTunes made some pretty brilliant selections that week...When I picked out my five albums, Marina & the Diamonds came real, real close. For now, I'll enjoy I Am Not a Robot, which I have continually been reminding myself when times are tough. (Don't worry Kyle! You are not a robot so it's all good!). This one's got an excellent, groovy mix of instruments all outshined by a wonderfully unique voice. On top of that, it's got the sort of quirkiness I often find myself craving. Enjoy!
8. Infinite Arms - Band of Horses
"...and my thoughts drift to you."
Band of Horses, I've enjoyed their previous stuff for sure, but many of the songs were just too folky for me. Their album that came out last month has drawn me into the folk vibe and made me love it. This song, which shares it's name with the album itself, is on the less folky/more outstanding side of the new songs. The chorus is so overwhelming and the lyrics so fitting for me personally...it would be too much if there were such a thing as too much, but that isn't the case when it comes to musical excellence. Let this song fall into your infinite arms. (They are ripping this one off the internet left and right so you'll have to enjoy a live version)
9. Inhfsa - Kyte
"Thank you for the best time."
I just spelled the title wrong about eight different ways when searching for it on YouTube so yeah, don't even ask me what it means. I've recently found myself being converted about it the realm of electronic music, and I particularly love this band because of how close their name is to mine and because of how well this style fits into my unique taste for music. I downloaded their latest album via iTunes (these guys are so abscure that I found no way of getting a hard copy) and the whole thing creates this fabulous mood that will work perfectly with some of the memories I know I'll be making soon. I hope you think of this song next time you inhfsa your inhfsa. (haha, these song reference jokes are great)
10. New Morning - Alpha Rev
"Have you heard who you are?"
Geez, talk about a powerful summer ballad...here's a near epitemy of the summer experience. The acoustic guitar, the orchestral backing, the super sweet voice and lyrics...it's all right here. This album came out only a few weeks ago and it's the second of the five I recently picked up. It includes a lot of similarly summer-suited songs that those of you out of the hunt might be interested in giving a shot. Remember: I really don't want you guys to limit yourselves to these songs. If you like a song, chances are you're going to like a lot of other stuff from that artist, so be adventurous! It pays off! I would know...
11. Numbered Days - See The World
"Live for this moment one day at a time."
This is one of my more mellow summer tunes. I picked up this six-song EP just before school got out and I really hope to get more time to listen to it soon (rushes of new music do have their disadvantages). This song particularly attracted my attention with its cool, meaningful lyrics and nice beat. The piano addition and bass guitar prominence are also commendable features behind it. It's artists like these that I wish had more of a chance out in the musical world because they deserve to get out there. Maybe you guys can help me out with that, but first: listen.
12. On A Good Day - Oceanlab
"How I wish I knew me better."
This is from the third of my five albums, which is completely different from the four other (all alternative) albums. This is my nighttime driving music, my soft electronic jams. Oceanlab has me shouting "Trance!" at random times throughout the day. I'm falling in love with it! Every song from their album gives a really cool and unique feeling, but I'm sharing this song because it's the one that convinced me to make the purchase. I can't get enough of struggle between the serene voice, delightful piano, and powerful bass beats. I'm looking forward to exploring some more trance on a good (summer) day.
13. Swans - Unkle Bob
"I want you to know that I can't let you go."
In a recent blog post, I shared another song from these guys as my "newest addiction". That addiction led to this, my fourth of the five albums. Unkle Bob's name is a bit misleading. This is some of the most mellow, down-to-earth stuff you'll ever hear. It's definitely some of the best acoustic stuff I've ever come across, and the addition of strings completes the mix to make an incredibly beautiful song. Ooh when that cello part comes in...I get the chills every time. Then it all comes back 'round for the slightly heavier finale...awesome. Check it out!
14. Tell 'Em - Sleigh Bells
"All the kids these days...do you really want to be that way?"
Hahaha...this song. Just heard it yesterday after I remembered seeing the album on the iTunes top ten a couple weeks back. Strangely enough, I heard it only because my dad got the CD...weird, I know. After about a dozen playthroughs, I still can't decide if it's amazing or annoying. This is one for passing on to your friends. Tell 'Em Kyle sent you. (Those faint of heart should not listen...I'm not kidding)
15. Waiting - The Morning Of
"You're everything to me."
Ah The Morning Of, the last of my wiesly selected five new CDs. I've loved tunes from these guys from before, but when I saw they had a new album come out last month, it was an instant yes. My newfound admiration and passion for these guys is best expressed in a few easy-to-understand words: new favorite band. The male/female vocal duets (my favorite!), the perfection of each and every song, the feel-good summer vibe, the powerful, heartfelt, sincerely expressed lyrics, the spectacular piano parts, the lone trumpet solo...it all makes me a bit speechless. I'm already "waiting" for their next release! Do me a favor and check this one out, if any at all.
16. Walking On Stones - Stellamaris (renamed New Frontier)
"For too long I have been in a dream."
So I have been keeping an eye on this Stellamaris group for a while and finally decided to buy their EP, which was the only thing I had ever been able to find from them. Turns out they've given themselves a new name and now stir up the musical scene as New Frontier and have much more to offer. I just barely found that out...no joke. Despite how much that frustrates me, I've really enjoyed the six songs on that EP. Unfortunately, I haven't listened to them all that much simply because they didn't shine quite as bright as all of this other new stuff. Now that I go back and really give them a focused listen, I regret not noticing the beauty earlier. Walking On Stones is the perfect example of the talent behind this group (call them what you will).
17. You And Your Heart - Jack Johnson
"You and your heart shouldn't be so far apart."
Oh boy, here it goes: Jack Johnson, round 2. My dad got the new album without me knowing it had even come out. I immediately placed myself in the mindset that I was going to find a way to grow to love Jack's music no matter what and after a few listens I was convinced that Jack Johnson had fully converted me to his style. Then, after a few more focused, critical listens, I went right back to my same viewpoint. I'm trying hard for you guys, but I'm failing. The simple style is just too...simple. The words are (dare I say) amateur. I know that's how Jack Johnson wants to be and he succeeds that way, but I'm not buying it when one of his songs is centered on the lyrics "pictures of people taking pictures of people taking pictures of people taking pictures...". Don't get me wrong, with this album I am starting to like him a lot more and it offers a few more excellent tunes. I guess that the fact that I continue to include in my blog...despite my disappointment, is a sure sign that he's growing on me. Only time will tell, but for now enjoy You And Your Heart, a surprisingly brilliant mix of vocals, guitar, and piano. Wait, maybe he's trying to tell me something with these lyrics...
So there it is, one of the best playlists I've ever put up here and undoubtedly the most massive blog post I've ever completed (it took me 3 1/2 hours so be grateful). For those of you who made it this far, I commend you. Now get out there and enjoy your summer. Find some summer tunes of your own and you'll be surprised how much more memorable it will end up becoming!
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