I'd really like to be able to upload my entire playlist to a website and have you, the viewer, download it at your leisure, but I'm not quite sure how yet. If you know, please help me out.
FEBRUARY 2012
1. Hospitality - All Day Today
Listen to this and don't smile. I dare you.
2. The Concept - Gimme Twice
Token Dance Number
3. The Vaccines - Norgaard
Quick, loud, fast, and about models. Sounds like a perfect rock song.
4. Medicine Hat - Little Cigarettes
This one goes out to Sammy Hill and Julie Ellison who only smoke when they drink.
5. Summer Twins - I Will Love You
I enjoy that indie rockers are bringing back '50s and '60s styles.
6. Maia Vidal - Follow Me
Sexyish and stylish.
7. Vacationer - Trip
Like cool jazz meets SoundCloud.
8. Miracles Of Modern Medicine - Luminol
Mandolins and lyrics are great here. It's like a bluegrass band trying to play rock.
9. The Shins - Simple Song
The Shins are back after a nice hiatus with wicked guitars and the same wonderfully high voices.
10. King Charles - Bam Bam
You know you love it. Check out the video. Guys, girls apparently cream if you dress like this.
11. Yellow Ostrich - Marathon Runner
Something a little deeper from one of my favorite rookie artists
12. The Hot Toddies - Green & Gold
Heralding from Oakland, try to catch all the references to the Oakland A's baseball team and these girls' love of them.
13. Jack White - Love Interruption
Great harmonies, great lyrics, nice and dirty. Great tune.
14. Plants and Animals - Lightshow
Who says rock 'n roll is dead?
15. Fort Wilson Riot - For All The Little Things
It's got a weird middle section, but all in all this song grooves well and has a nice hook.
16. Foster the People - Don't Stop (Color On The Walls)
I had to listen to this album like 4 times to appreciate more than just "Pumped Up Kicks," but I have found plenty of other tunes I like. This is one of them. Great video too.
17. Chairlift - I Belong In Your Arms
The '80s are alive. If your local Forever 21 isn't already rocking to this, request it immediately or shop elsewhere.
18. Driving Music - Orange Traffic Cones
I love a bass heavy groove and octave vocals.
19. Bolivia - Rudy's Call
Oh, the harmonies and brilliant guitar work.
20. Hudson - The Belfry
For listening on the beach all alone.
21. M. Ward - The First Time I Ran Away
Lush arrangements and slick vocals make this a really nice song. Welcome back other half of She & Him.
22. Everyman Of Parts - Arid Eyes
This is what happens when one simple verse and a good musician collide.
23. Arcade Fire - Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains)
My favorite track off their latest concept album, The Suburbs. This track is a bit old, but it's still great.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
January 2012
Alright, people. Hold on tight! Today, I'm going to sit here and update my playlists straight through to all I have done. It's going to be messy and probably rough, but the basics will be there.
I hope you've been finding stuff you like. A lot of artists have been hitting the airwaves recently or coming out with new albums for the fall. I'm hoping to do a success story post soon of songs/bands that have made it to the mass market.
JANUARY 2012
1. Dozens - Forget Me
Usually, I like to start with something a little quicker and driving, but this song fades into a sweet beginning. The synth and harmonies make for a nice overall sound.
2. Summer Camp - Down
I really do hope this fuzzy sound sticks around for while. Especially, if a clear female voice cuts through.
3. Hey Ocean! - I Am A Heart
One for the ladies. Pure pop goodness.
4. The Lumineers - Ho Hey
Listen closely and you can hear this song (sans vocals) in a Blue Moon commercial. Great lyrics and passionate playing make this one of my favorites on this mix.
5. The Black Keys - Gold On The Ceiling
Though I'm not quite sure how the gold got there, I am certain I really like this song. I'm constantly impressed with how much sound these two can put out.
6. Seams - The Colour Purple
It's almost like 2 songs in one. When the chorus breaks down, I just fall in love with this song. So, be patient and give it time.
7. The Weeknd - D.D.
Can someone say, "Next Michael Jackson!"
8. Penguin Prison - Don't Fuck With My Money
The anthem for the 99%. Occupy this song!
9. Los Campesinos! - Songs About Your Girlfriend
I've been told all their songs sound the same, but I tell myself I really like that sound.
10. Gracie - Flirty Little Fishy
Another song you have to give time. It's weird, but catchy.
11. Dozens - Sounds Of Your Lovers
I broke my cardinal rule of mixmaking with this track: Thou Shalt Not Have Two Of The Same Artists One A Mix. Ugh. It was purely by accident. Anyway, you get a double-dose of Dozens and I get a lesson learned in double-checking.
12. Oh No! Yoko - Hatshepsut
Such a fun little number.
13. Cloud Nothings - Fall In
Garage indie rock
14. 41st And Home - Modern Medicine
I really hope these guys make it big quick. Such cool vocal syncopation, such nice lyrics, and such a great build-up. This song gets high marks in every category.
15. Sunparlour Players - Runner
Like an underwater ballad maybe?
16. Arms - Heat & Hot Water
I enjoy the melody of this tune as well as the way the chorus picks it up.
17. Alphabet Backwards - Big Top
Like a British Tallest Man On Earth maybe.
18. Lower 48 - The End
I've come to really appreciate the harmonies in this one. Sometimes she gets the melody, sometimes he does, and you really have to listen to figure it out. Lots of good words and such nice guitar.
19. Bon Iver - Towers
You may not know this, but the pattern the guitar plays at the beginning is one of my favorite melodic progressions. I use it all the time when making stuff up. Bon Iver schools me as usual.
20. Radiohead - The Daily Mail
I have a hard time with Radiohead, but this song is pretty and makes my ears happy.
21. Desert Noises - Smoke Breathing Monsters
A man and his guitar doesn't get much better.
22. The National - I Need My Girl
A live version of a very pretty song. Sing along with the audience if you like.
I hope you've been finding stuff you like. A lot of artists have been hitting the airwaves recently or coming out with new albums for the fall. I'm hoping to do a success story post soon of songs/bands that have made it to the mass market.
JANUARY 2012
1. Dozens - Forget Me
Usually, I like to start with something a little quicker and driving, but this song fades into a sweet beginning. The synth and harmonies make for a nice overall sound.
2. Summer Camp - Down
I really do hope this fuzzy sound sticks around for while. Especially, if a clear female voice cuts through.
3. Hey Ocean! - I Am A Heart
One for the ladies. Pure pop goodness.
4. The Lumineers - Ho Hey
Listen closely and you can hear this song (sans vocals) in a Blue Moon commercial. Great lyrics and passionate playing make this one of my favorites on this mix.
5. The Black Keys - Gold On The Ceiling
Though I'm not quite sure how the gold got there, I am certain I really like this song. I'm constantly impressed with how much sound these two can put out.
6. Seams - The Colour Purple
It's almost like 2 songs in one. When the chorus breaks down, I just fall in love with this song. So, be patient and give it time.
7. The Weeknd - D.D.
Can someone say, "Next Michael Jackson!"
8. Penguin Prison - Don't Fuck With My Money
The anthem for the 99%. Occupy this song!
9. Los Campesinos! - Songs About Your Girlfriend
I've been told all their songs sound the same, but I tell myself I really like that sound.
10. Gracie - Flirty Little Fishy
Another song you have to give time. It's weird, but catchy.
11. Dozens - Sounds Of Your Lovers
I broke my cardinal rule of mixmaking with this track: Thou Shalt Not Have Two Of The Same Artists One A Mix. Ugh. It was purely by accident. Anyway, you get a double-dose of Dozens and I get a lesson learned in double-checking.
12. Oh No! Yoko - Hatshepsut
Such a fun little number.
13. Cloud Nothings - Fall In
Garage indie rock
14. 41st And Home - Modern Medicine
I really hope these guys make it big quick. Such cool vocal syncopation, such nice lyrics, and such a great build-up. This song gets high marks in every category.
15. Sunparlour Players - Runner
Like an underwater ballad maybe?
16. Arms - Heat & Hot Water
I enjoy the melody of this tune as well as the way the chorus picks it up.
17. Alphabet Backwards - Big Top
Like a British Tallest Man On Earth maybe.
18. Lower 48 - The End
I've come to really appreciate the harmonies in this one. Sometimes she gets the melody, sometimes he does, and you really have to listen to figure it out. Lots of good words and such nice guitar.
19. Bon Iver - Towers
You may not know this, but the pattern the guitar plays at the beginning is one of my favorite melodic progressions. I use it all the time when making stuff up. Bon Iver schools me as usual.
20. Radiohead - The Daily Mail
I have a hard time with Radiohead, but this song is pretty and makes my ears happy.
21. Desert Noises - Smoke Breathing Monsters
A man and his guitar doesn't get much better.
22. The National - I Need My Girl
A live version of a very pretty song. Sing along with the audience if you like.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
December 2011
Hey, I'm almost to the proper year! Hooray!
1. Deas Vail - Do You Hear What I Hear
- Just great harmonies and shifted into a 3/4 feel. Clean, clear, and under control.
2. North Highlands - Steady Steady
- Interesting voice and a catchy little number.
3. Red Kite - Montreal
- Yes! Melodious, inventive, and incredibly singable. Turn it up!
4. Erik Lind - Wherever You Go
- Like a little bit Phoenix with some catchy and understandable lyrics.
5. Satellite Stories - Family
- Maybe, one day I'll start a family. Maybe, maybe, maybe
6. Blondfire - Where The Kids Are
- Such interesting sounds. Like the song was sung in space.
7. Alabama Shakes - On Your Way
- Sounds inspired by Kings of Leon and a great breakdown.
8. Calm Paradox - Boots
- What a great voice and great lyrics. Warning: NSFW
9. Caroline Smith And The Good Night Sleeps - Calliope
- Wow. I want more like this!
10. Deeper Upper - I Am The Colours
- I'm not sure what it means exactly to "be the colours," but I know I like it. And this Lithuanian band put together one great song. One of my favorites in recent months.
11. Orca Orca - When the Sun Comes Up (Feat. QUALMS)
- Fuzzy, light, this is a great song to reminisce to.
12. Big Deal - Chair
- What a great duo and the angst of romance.
"Only want me for the songs I write about you, about how I like you."
13. Alphabet Backwards - TALLER
- Like the Decemberists only more British.
14. Dead Trees - Slow Faze Fast
- Take me to CA and cruise to this one.
15. Set Sail - Whales
- So well-orchestrated. So stinkin' catchy. I want to write a song like this.
16. The Orion Experience - NYC Girl
- Token dance number.
17. Kimbra - Call Me
- I picture this song sung from an urban apartment building stoop in the summer.
18. Hey Marseilles - Elegy
- What great use of instruments
19. The Once - You're My best Friend
- These 3 voices blend so well. Maybe better than the original.
20. Brown Bird - Thunder & Lightning
- Get down wit yr bad self.
21. Peter Peter - Tergiverse
- I'm not quite sure what he's saying, but I like it.
22. My Morning Jacket - Christmas Must Be Tonight
- C'mon. It was December. It needed to be Christmasy.
1. Deas Vail - Do You Hear What I Hear
- Just great harmonies and shifted into a 3/4 feel. Clean, clear, and under control.
2. North Highlands - Steady Steady
- Interesting voice and a catchy little number.
3. Red Kite - Montreal
- Yes! Melodious, inventive, and incredibly singable. Turn it up!
4. Erik Lind - Wherever You Go
- Like a little bit Phoenix with some catchy and understandable lyrics.
5. Satellite Stories - Family
- Maybe, one day I'll start a family. Maybe, maybe, maybe
6. Blondfire - Where The Kids Are
- Such interesting sounds. Like the song was sung in space.
7. Alabama Shakes - On Your Way
- Sounds inspired by Kings of Leon and a great breakdown.
8. Calm Paradox - Boots
- What a great voice and great lyrics. Warning: NSFW
9. Caroline Smith And The Good Night Sleeps - Calliope
- Wow. I want more like this!
10. Deeper Upper - I Am The Colours
- I'm not sure what it means exactly to "be the colours," but I know I like it. And this Lithuanian band put together one great song. One of my favorites in recent months.
11. Orca Orca - When the Sun Comes Up (Feat. QUALMS)
- Fuzzy, light, this is a great song to reminisce to.
12. Big Deal - Chair
- What a great duo and the angst of romance.
"Only want me for the songs I write about you, about how I like you."
13. Alphabet Backwards - TALLER
- Like the Decemberists only more British.
14. Dead Trees - Slow Faze Fast
- Take me to CA and cruise to this one.
15. Set Sail - Whales
- So well-orchestrated. So stinkin' catchy. I want to write a song like this.
16. The Orion Experience - NYC Girl
- Token dance number.
17. Kimbra - Call Me
- I picture this song sung from an urban apartment building stoop in the summer.
18. Hey Marseilles - Elegy
- What great use of instruments
19. The Once - You're My best Friend
- These 3 voices blend so well. Maybe better than the original.
20. Brown Bird - Thunder & Lightning
- Get down wit yr bad self.
21. Peter Peter - Tergiverse
- I'm not quite sure what he's saying, but I like it.
22. My Morning Jacket - Christmas Must Be Tonight
- C'mon. It was December. It needed to be Christmasy.
November 2011
Wow. Um...this new look of blogspot/blogger/whatever it is these days is way different. Maybe if I posted as regularly as I wanted to, it wouldn't be such a surprise.
I just finished my own personal 2 weeks of stress. Here's the rundown:
I was offered a job with Kenai Peninsula Borough School District (KPBSD). Actually, they told me I could select one of 5 positions open there. I took the only high school job. Next fall, I will be teaching 6-12 Band and Choir at Nikiski High School. More details to follow.
My students did an excellent job with the plays. I thought they got better each night, we made a bunch of money, and I was told it was "the funniest play in the last 5 years." That's good.
My kids kicked butt at Regionals. I'll try to have a Regional post soon, but here are the stats:
2 of my students (soprano 2 and baritone) were selected as First Chairs. That's the best person on their instrument/voice in the Region.
Kenny Lake had 6 out of 5 state-eligible acts make it to State. That's possible because a junior high student was selected to go to State.
Glennallen had 7 out of 17 acts go to State.
Both schools had 3 acts selected for Command Performance, which is the top honor from Regional Solo/Ensemble. Usually there are only 3-5 Command Performances selected, but this year we had over double the number of judges in an effort to be efficient. Therefore, there was a record 18 Command Performances selected. So, out of 16 schools, my kids took a WHOLE ONE-THIRD of the Command Performances.
I'm trying to think of the most effective way to throw this information at the Administration and School Board for cutting my position.
Here's November 2011's Playlist:
1. PAPA - I Am The Lion King
- Besides the amazing name and killer guitar riff, this song packs it all. Like an amped up Rilo Kiley mixed with Tom Petty.
2. The Little Indians - What Makes You Grin
- Nice, bright harmonies meld into pop-punk. The kid inside me who once loved Blink-182 is jumping for joy.
3. Brite Futures - Too Young Too Kill
- Okay, so the lyrics are awful. But it's so stupidly catchy. "Make it a club hit, we can go dancing. We don't give a shit what it's about. Make it a pop song so we can sing along." Oh, and "I bought a helicopter just so I can make it rain." I hope they're being ironic.
4. Inspired And The Sleep - While We're Young
- Thumping toms, a nice riff and also handclaps. What a great combo.
5. Los Campesinos! - Hello Sadness
- I know most of their songs sound the same, but I like the subtlety in the lyrics and the catchy pseudo-chorus. "It's only hope that springs eternal and that's the reason why this dripping from my broken heart is never running dry."
6. Bastille - Flaws
- I can't help but sing this song at the absolute top of my lungs. It's like catharsis.
7. The National - Twenty Miles to N.H. (Part 2)
- This cover has odd lyrics, but it has this lovely sheen with the piano and guitar. Mmm.
8. The Rest - The Last Day
- Just a nice catchy tune.
9. Jonny Dylan Hughes - Dreamsssss
- Catchy electronica/pop. Poptronica, perhaps?
10. Piney Gir - River Song
- I think you'll either love or hate this song. No in between. I love it. Her voice is so clear and the wooden, country bass line make my day.
11. The Joy Formidable - Cradle
- She just sings with so much passion. I totally believe everything she sings.
12. Contrakids - Bulletproof (I Hurt You)
- Token dance number.
13. Hard-Fi - Stop
- Blues/dance music. Reminds me of some aspects of Of Montreal mixed with OK GO. Stop!
14. Tycho - A Walk
- Post-rock isn't generally my bag. But every once in a while, a lyricless song pulls me under. This one is done so well.
15. Daughter - Youth
- Crystal clear voice, ominous piano and great lyrics. "We are the reckless, we are the wild youth."
16. To Kill A King - Bloody Shirt
- OOOOHHHH....a vibraphone! OOOH...crisp guitar! OOOHHHH...a singable chorus! Get on it!
17. Andrew Bird - Darkmatter
- What I love about Andrew is his commitment to featuring his violin and incredible whistling skills, while still creating lovely guitar-driven folk-pop.
18. Big Tree - This Fall
- The harmonies here are so good. And then you get to the breakdown and you're like...YES!
19. Caroline Smith And The Good Night Sleeps - Birch Trees & Broken Barns
- I love her voice. And I wish I had written this song.
20. NO - Stay With Me
- This low ballad is full of raw emotions. No subtlety here, just what the singer is feeling.
21. James Blake - A Case of You
- A beautiful cover of a Joni Mitchell tune. It tells a great, but sad story and features some lovely auto-tuned piano.
More coming! I'll catch up one day!
I just finished my own personal 2 weeks of stress. Here's the rundown:
I was offered a job with Kenai Peninsula Borough School District (KPBSD). Actually, they told me I could select one of 5 positions open there. I took the only high school job. Next fall, I will be teaching 6-12 Band and Choir at Nikiski High School. More details to follow.
My students did an excellent job with the plays. I thought they got better each night, we made a bunch of money, and I was told it was "the funniest play in the last 5 years." That's good.
My kids kicked butt at Regionals. I'll try to have a Regional post soon, but here are the stats:
2 of my students (soprano 2 and baritone) were selected as First Chairs. That's the best person on their instrument/voice in the Region.
Kenny Lake had 6 out of 5 state-eligible acts make it to State. That's possible because a junior high student was selected to go to State.
Glennallen had 7 out of 17 acts go to State.
Both schools had 3 acts selected for Command Performance, which is the top honor from Regional Solo/Ensemble. Usually there are only 3-5 Command Performances selected, but this year we had over double the number of judges in an effort to be efficient. Therefore, there was a record 18 Command Performances selected. So, out of 16 schools, my kids took a WHOLE ONE-THIRD of the Command Performances.
I'm trying to think of the most effective way to throw this information at the Administration and School Board for cutting my position.
Here's November 2011's Playlist:
1. PAPA - I Am The Lion King
- Besides the amazing name and killer guitar riff, this song packs it all. Like an amped up Rilo Kiley mixed with Tom Petty.
2. The Little Indians - What Makes You Grin
- Nice, bright harmonies meld into pop-punk. The kid inside me who once loved Blink-182 is jumping for joy.
3. Brite Futures - Too Young Too Kill
- Okay, so the lyrics are awful. But it's so stupidly catchy. "Make it a club hit, we can go dancing. We don't give a shit what it's about. Make it a pop song so we can sing along." Oh, and "I bought a helicopter just so I can make it rain." I hope they're being ironic.
4. Inspired And The Sleep - While We're Young
- Thumping toms, a nice riff and also handclaps. What a great combo.
5. Los Campesinos! - Hello Sadness
- I know most of their songs sound the same, but I like the subtlety in the lyrics and the catchy pseudo-chorus. "It's only hope that springs eternal and that's the reason why this dripping from my broken heart is never running dry."
6. Bastille - Flaws
- I can't help but sing this song at the absolute top of my lungs. It's like catharsis.
7. The National - Twenty Miles to N.H. (Part 2)
- This cover has odd lyrics, but it has this lovely sheen with the piano and guitar. Mmm.
8. The Rest - The Last Day
- Just a nice catchy tune.
9. Jonny Dylan Hughes - Dreamsssss
- Catchy electronica/pop. Poptronica, perhaps?
10. Piney Gir - River Song
- I think you'll either love or hate this song. No in between. I love it. Her voice is so clear and the wooden, country bass line make my day.
11. The Joy Formidable - Cradle
- She just sings with so much passion. I totally believe everything she sings.
12. Contrakids - Bulletproof (I Hurt You)
- Token dance number.
13. Hard-Fi - Stop
- Blues/dance music. Reminds me of some aspects of Of Montreal mixed with OK GO. Stop!
14. Tycho - A Walk
- Post-rock isn't generally my bag. But every once in a while, a lyricless song pulls me under. This one is done so well.
15. Daughter - Youth
- Crystal clear voice, ominous piano and great lyrics. "We are the reckless, we are the wild youth."
16. To Kill A King - Bloody Shirt
- OOOOHHHH....a vibraphone! OOOH...crisp guitar! OOOHHHH...a singable chorus! Get on it!
17. Andrew Bird - Darkmatter
- What I love about Andrew is his commitment to featuring his violin and incredible whistling skills, while still creating lovely guitar-driven folk-pop.
18. Big Tree - This Fall
- The harmonies here are so good. And then you get to the breakdown and you're like...YES!
19. Caroline Smith And The Good Night Sleeps - Birch Trees & Broken Barns
- I love her voice. And I wish I had written this song.
20. NO - Stay With Me
- This low ballad is full of raw emotions. No subtlety here, just what the singer is feeling.
21. James Blake - A Case of You
- A beautiful cover of a Joni Mitchell tune. It tells a great, but sad story and features some lovely auto-tuned piano.
More coming! I'll catch up one day!
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
October 2011
1. Los Campesinos! - By Your Hand
- I just wanna shout the chorus at the top of my lungs. I am so glad Los Campesinos are back. I know alot of their songs sound similar, but I must dig their sound cause I can't get enough of it.
Remember what your heart is for...
2. Foster the People - Call It What You Want
- Obviously not the best track off their album, but catchy enough.
3. Dirty Vegas - Never Enough
- The last time I heard this band I was wishing the radio station would please stop playing their hit, "Days Go By" But, this is a nice change and is quite catchy.
4. The Cinema - Satellites
- I think I want this guy's voice. Shameless, catchy pop. Don't hate.
5. Rabbit! - Pink Lemonade
- Oh so innocent. Maybe I'll teach it to my elementary students.
6. Twin Falls - Janie, I Will Only Let You Down.
- Depressing title, depressing song. But it sounds so nice.
7. Radical Face - Always Gold
- I love the harmonies and the way the song rises and falls. It is orchestrated very well.
8. Fun. - We Are Young (ft. Janelle Monae)
- That's right kids. I had it back in October. My students were asking me if I had ever heard of Fun. this past week. Kids, I own their first album. I knew them when they were still The Format and not touring with Panic at the Disco. It is my professional opinion that every song on the first album is better than this song. But, I will acknowledge the mainstream appeal of this song. I'm really glad they are getting the recognition they deserve. Tommie called it. So, let's set the world on fire. Oh, and check out this really weird video for it.
P.S. When did Glee become the new radio? Dear Kids, find music the old fashioned way.
9. Maia Hirasawa - It Doesn't Stop
- I love her sloppy voice and the cheekiness of this song.
10. The Rifles - Tangled Up In Love
- Wow, there's a lot of cheesy pop songs on this album... Hmm...
11. Mausi - sol.
- Ahhh. Hear we go. Some R&B, some exotic chords, and a great opportunity to get off your butt and dance.
12. Florence and The Machine - Shake It Out
- My dad persists and calling her, "Florence Plus the Machine." I find it hilarious. Another chance for her to show off her powerful lungs.
13. The Kooks - Carried Away
- The Kooks are usually hit or miss for me. This one sinks my battleship.
14. Boots Electric - Complexity
- I believe these guys. They sell this song so well.
15. Teenburger - Wake Up (feat. Jorun Bombay)
- Set this as your alarm song. Do it. Now. Such great rhymes!
16. 41st and Home - Wilderness Eyes
- Sing along with the chorus. You know you want to. Just pick a note and go. Mmmm.
17. Southerly - Without a Cause
- I am an optismist, I too shall conquer this. I am a dreamer still, I truly believe this.
18. Elizaveta - Dreamer
- This song sounds like it should be in a musical. I'd put it in my soundtrack.
19. The Moth & The Mirror - Fire
- She's got a nice voice and the music just speaks for itself. Interesting sounds, good syncopated rhythms, and perfectly timed harmonies.
20. Orca Orca - Change of Pace
- Say the band name 10 times fast. The sound is so nice. It reminds me of Jagged Gorgeous Winter by The Main Drag.
21. Heavenly Beat - Desire
- A nice way to unwind at the end of a pop-heavy disc. Just relax, man.
22. Hip Hatchet - Sun Can't Walk
- A simple voice, a sad story, and an unnatural melody structure. A lovely way to end.
- I just wanna shout the chorus at the top of my lungs. I am so glad Los Campesinos are back. I know alot of their songs sound similar, but I must dig their sound cause I can't get enough of it.
Remember what your heart is for...
2. Foster the People - Call It What You Want
- Obviously not the best track off their album, but catchy enough.
3. Dirty Vegas - Never Enough
- The last time I heard this band I was wishing the radio station would please stop playing their hit, "Days Go By" But, this is a nice change and is quite catchy.
4. The Cinema - Satellites
- I think I want this guy's voice. Shameless, catchy pop. Don't hate.
5. Rabbit! - Pink Lemonade
- Oh so innocent. Maybe I'll teach it to my elementary students.
6. Twin Falls - Janie, I Will Only Let You Down.
- Depressing title, depressing song. But it sounds so nice.
7. Radical Face - Always Gold
- I love the harmonies and the way the song rises and falls. It is orchestrated very well.
8. Fun. - We Are Young (ft. Janelle Monae)
- That's right kids. I had it back in October. My students were asking me if I had ever heard of Fun. this past week. Kids, I own their first album. I knew them when they were still The Format and not touring with Panic at the Disco. It is my professional opinion that every song on the first album is better than this song. But, I will acknowledge the mainstream appeal of this song. I'm really glad they are getting the recognition they deserve. Tommie called it. So, let's set the world on fire. Oh, and check out this really weird video for it.
P.S. When did Glee become the new radio? Dear Kids, find music the old fashioned way.
9. Maia Hirasawa - It Doesn't Stop
- I love her sloppy voice and the cheekiness of this song.
10. The Rifles - Tangled Up In Love
- Wow, there's a lot of cheesy pop songs on this album... Hmm...
11. Mausi - sol.
- Ahhh. Hear we go. Some R&B, some exotic chords, and a great opportunity to get off your butt and dance.
12. Florence and The Machine - Shake It Out
- My dad persists and calling her, "Florence Plus the Machine." I find it hilarious. Another chance for her to show off her powerful lungs.
13. The Kooks - Carried Away
- The Kooks are usually hit or miss for me. This one sinks my battleship.
14. Boots Electric - Complexity
- I believe these guys. They sell this song so well.
15. Teenburger - Wake Up (feat. Jorun Bombay)
- Set this as your alarm song. Do it. Now. Such great rhymes!
16. 41st and Home - Wilderness Eyes
- Sing along with the chorus. You know you want to. Just pick a note and go. Mmmm.
17. Southerly - Without a Cause
- I am an optismist, I too shall conquer this. I am a dreamer still, I truly believe this.
18. Elizaveta - Dreamer
- This song sounds like it should be in a musical. I'd put it in my soundtrack.
19. The Moth & The Mirror - Fire
- She's got a nice voice and the music just speaks for itself. Interesting sounds, good syncopated rhythms, and perfectly timed harmonies.
20. Orca Orca - Change of Pace
- Say the band name 10 times fast. The sound is so nice. It reminds me of Jagged Gorgeous Winter by The Main Drag.
21. Heavenly Beat - Desire
- A nice way to unwind at the end of a pop-heavy disc. Just relax, man.
22. Hip Hatchet - Sun Can't Walk
- A simple voice, a sad story, and an unnatural melody structure. A lovely way to end.
September 2011
1. 41st & Home - Gorbachev
- The way it builds makes it a perfect opener. Then you get trumpets, harmonies, and wonderful Cold War references. I truly appreciate a well-written song.
2. Ximena Sarinana - Different
- First sent to me by the lovely Tommie A., I love how careless her voice sounds and how quirky the music video is. Check it out! I think this established Latin star could crossover easily if she keeps this up.
3. St. Vincent - Cruel
- A weird little intro, but all doubts fall as St. Vincent belts the chorus. I'm also in love with all the odd sounds throughout it.
4. Oy Vey - Idiot
- When I have access to a recording studio, I want this fuzzy sound. Catchy and together well.
5. TV Girl - Lizzy Come Back to Life
- I told you, I LOVE the fuzz. This one also gets on for the ultra-catchy samples and the first song in recent memory to utilize vibraphone. You've also gotta give props for the name-dropping of the punk innovators.
6. Locksley - The Whip
- You probably heard this one on a commercial for NFL Play 60 or maybe for American Family Insurance. Either way, it's a glorious, top-of-your lungs type of song.
7. Sleeper Agent - Get it Daddy
- Rolling Stone and now SXSW are gaga for this band. I wish the guy would sing less and let the girl go. Apparently she's 17 and can rock the mic like a vandal.
8. Icona Pop - Manners
- Token Dance Track.
9. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - Yellow Missing Signs
- They've gone electronic with their new album. Still, the nice harmonies, ambiguous lyrics, and catchy hooks persist. Still one of my favorite bands no one's ever heard of.
On a side note, it turns out my favorite song by them is also Tommie's favorite song by them. How'd she ever hear of them without me, I may never know...
10. Young the Giant - Cough Syrup
- Last summer I lost my mind over Young the Giant's My Body. This song is a beautiful driving and melancholy ballad.
11. The Weather Station - Everything I Saw
- Oh give me a banjo and a sweet voice and let me die happy.
12. Milo Greene - 1957
Your house that sits behind me is covered in ivy green. The windows that we watch from are old and chipping at the beam. And it takes me away.
I'll go I'll go I'll go I...
13. Collections of Colonies of Bees - Lawn
- Odd name, unknown song title...but super catchy post-rock. Deliciousness in my ears.
14. Parachute Musical - Reflection
- Maybe this one brings me back. Clean-cut pop has it's place, people.
15. NewVillager - Lighthouse
- Keep it up. Don't Stop. Don't Lose Your Place.
I. LOVE. This. And the music video is equal parts ballet and Fifth Element.
16. The 2 Bears - Church
- If anyone knows what this intro is from, please let me know. A nice Caribbean vibe and such excellent lyrics.
17. CSS - Red Alert
- A nice, sexy groove.
18. Moustache Of Insanity - We Need More Awesome
- Predator went STRAIGHT to the top of my Netflix list after hearing this song. And it was AWESOME. This song makes me laugh so hard.
19. Bon Iver - Holocene
- I just want to sink into this song and have it surround me. I love bragging that he's from Wisconsin. The music video is so luscious and made me begin to start looking up plane tickets to Iceland. "And at once I knew I was not magnificent."
20. Feist - How Come You Never Go There
- This song sounds exactly like it came from what critics are calling Feist's break-up album. Bluesy and full of power.
21. Lana Del Rey - Video Games
- I missed the controversy surrounding her. Is it just that she doesn't perform well live? That's half of the pop-world. I think this song is sad and beautiful. It's cynical and satirical and probably a good commentary and the American family. Maybe I give it too much credit. But I think it's nice.
- The way it builds makes it a perfect opener. Then you get trumpets, harmonies, and wonderful Cold War references. I truly appreciate a well-written song.
2. Ximena Sarinana - Different
- First sent to me by the lovely Tommie A., I love how careless her voice sounds and how quirky the music video is. Check it out! I think this established Latin star could crossover easily if she keeps this up.
3. St. Vincent - Cruel
- A weird little intro, but all doubts fall as St. Vincent belts the chorus. I'm also in love with all the odd sounds throughout it.
4. Oy Vey - Idiot
- When I have access to a recording studio, I want this fuzzy sound. Catchy and together well.
5. TV Girl - Lizzy Come Back to Life
- I told you, I LOVE the fuzz. This one also gets on for the ultra-catchy samples and the first song in recent memory to utilize vibraphone. You've also gotta give props for the name-dropping of the punk innovators.
6. Locksley - The Whip
- You probably heard this one on a commercial for NFL Play 60 or maybe for American Family Insurance. Either way, it's a glorious, top-of-your lungs type of song.
7. Sleeper Agent - Get it Daddy
- Rolling Stone and now SXSW are gaga for this band. I wish the guy would sing less and let the girl go. Apparently she's 17 and can rock the mic like a vandal.
8. Icona Pop - Manners
- Token Dance Track.
9. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - Yellow Missing Signs
- They've gone electronic with their new album. Still, the nice harmonies, ambiguous lyrics, and catchy hooks persist. Still one of my favorite bands no one's ever heard of.
On a side note, it turns out my favorite song by them is also Tommie's favorite song by them. How'd she ever hear of them without me, I may never know...
10. Young the Giant - Cough Syrup
- Last summer I lost my mind over Young the Giant's My Body. This song is a beautiful driving and melancholy ballad.
11. The Weather Station - Everything I Saw
- Oh give me a banjo and a sweet voice and let me die happy.
12. Milo Greene - 1957
Your house that sits behind me is covered in ivy green. The windows that we watch from are old and chipping at the beam. And it takes me away.
I'll go I'll go I'll go I...
13. Collections of Colonies of Bees - Lawn
- Odd name, unknown song title...but super catchy post-rock. Deliciousness in my ears.
14. Parachute Musical - Reflection
- Maybe this one brings me back. Clean-cut pop has it's place, people.
15. NewVillager - Lighthouse
- Keep it up. Don't Stop. Don't Lose Your Place.
I. LOVE. This. And the music video is equal parts ballet and Fifth Element.
16. The 2 Bears - Church
- If anyone knows what this intro is from, please let me know. A nice Caribbean vibe and such excellent lyrics.
17. CSS - Red Alert
- A nice, sexy groove.
18. Moustache Of Insanity - We Need More Awesome
- Predator went STRAIGHT to the top of my Netflix list after hearing this song. And it was AWESOME. This song makes me laugh so hard.
19. Bon Iver - Holocene
- I just want to sink into this song and have it surround me. I love bragging that he's from Wisconsin. The music video is so luscious and made me begin to start looking up plane tickets to Iceland. "And at once I knew I was not magnificent."
20. Feist - How Come You Never Go There
- This song sounds exactly like it came from what critics are calling Feist's break-up album. Bluesy and full of power.
21. Lana Del Rey - Video Games
- I missed the controversy surrounding her. Is it just that she doesn't perform well live? That's half of the pop-world. I think this song is sad and beautiful. It's cynical and satirical and probably a good commentary and the American family. Maybe I give it too much credit. But I think it's nice.
The Times They Are A-Changing
Lots have been happening in the AK lately. I'd really like to share it all with all of you and post more (you know, in case people out there read it...), but putting in 10-14 hours at school some nights makes that hard.
Tomorrow I have a concert at Kenny Lake.
In 2 weeks my plays open for a 3-night run.
3 days later I have a concert at Glennallen.
The next afternoon we leave for a 5-day trip to the Region II Music Festival which includes a concert at Houston High School on the way, solo/ensemble for about 40 acts, and way too much constant time with kids.
2 weeks later is State Solo/Ensemble
Graduations follow shortly after.
And then I'm done.
My goal is to put in the hours now (and since February really) so everything goes much smoother and better than last year. I think it's working. I feel less stressed at least...
However, now I have to search for a job.
You see, my district is $334,000 in the hole for next year and something needs to happen. That something is the elimination of my position. Please note that as of this posting, none of that is for certain. The official meeting is next Tuesday and there are alot of maybes. The State may give schools more money in June and they'd be able to keep the position. However, I can't be sitting here in my lovely shack waiting to see if they'll have a music teacher opening, no matter how beautiful the mountains and rivers are.
So, I'm applying all over again. The trick is that I know much more about what I like and what I need after teaching for 2 years. I'm focusing my efforts into the Pacific NW, Colorado, the pretty sides of Montana and Wyoming, and Wisconsin and Michigan. I might be willing to think East Coast if it were the right job.
The other wrench is that I love this girl who is going to England for a year starting in September. Ah, love...you cruel temptress...
In any case, a Winter's worth of CDs are sitting on my floor right now waiting to be wrapped and mailed (which will happen next week cause we get paid Friday). March is in the whittling down stage and I am feeling good. I absolutely love making music for all of you.
In personal music news, I have grand aspirations of fixing some old songs and finishing some leftover FAWM ideas and including a homemade EP in a summer mailing.
I'm also looking for a musical partner to renew the Cover Challenge with (Nick and Tim, the offer is still on the table). If you are interested, please let me know ASAP. I have also come up with the entirely metaphysical idea of starting a Cover of Covers Challenge.
So, tonight I'm going to crank out playlists for the CDs I've finished while I do some laundry. Enjoy!
Tomorrow I have a concert at Kenny Lake.
In 2 weeks my plays open for a 3-night run.
3 days later I have a concert at Glennallen.
The next afternoon we leave for a 5-day trip to the Region II Music Festival which includes a concert at Houston High School on the way, solo/ensemble for about 40 acts, and way too much constant time with kids.
2 weeks later is State Solo/Ensemble
Graduations follow shortly after.
And then I'm done.
My goal is to put in the hours now (and since February really) so everything goes much smoother and better than last year. I think it's working. I feel less stressed at least...
However, now I have to search for a job.
You see, my district is $334,000 in the hole for next year and something needs to happen. That something is the elimination of my position. Please note that as of this posting, none of that is for certain. The official meeting is next Tuesday and there are alot of maybes. The State may give schools more money in June and they'd be able to keep the position. However, I can't be sitting here in my lovely shack waiting to see if they'll have a music teacher opening, no matter how beautiful the mountains and rivers are.
So, I'm applying all over again. The trick is that I know much more about what I like and what I need after teaching for 2 years. I'm focusing my efforts into the Pacific NW, Colorado, the pretty sides of Montana and Wyoming, and Wisconsin and Michigan. I might be willing to think East Coast if it were the right job.
The other wrench is that I love this girl who is going to England for a year starting in September. Ah, love...you cruel temptress...
In any case, a Winter's worth of CDs are sitting on my floor right now waiting to be wrapped and mailed (which will happen next week cause we get paid Friday). March is in the whittling down stage and I am feeling good. I absolutely love making music for all of you.
In personal music news, I have grand aspirations of fixing some old songs and finishing some leftover FAWM ideas and including a homemade EP in a summer mailing.
I'm also looking for a musical partner to renew the Cover Challenge with (Nick and Tim, the offer is still on the table). If you are interested, please let me know ASAP. I have also come up with the entirely metaphysical idea of starting a Cover of Covers Challenge.
So, tonight I'm going to crank out playlists for the CDs I've finished while I do some laundry. Enjoy!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)