"Discarded Christmas Trees Transformed Into an Ethereal Forest"
Beautiful and kind of eerie.
https://www.yahoo.com/makers/discarded-christmas-trees-transformed-ethereal-212032864/photo-a-new-home-for-your-1452635742726.html
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
New music Tuesday
From their 2015 debut album, here's some lush, jangly, 90s-esque girlypop from Wolf Alice.
Stupid clickbaity headline of the day
"12 Archaeological Finds You Won’t Believe Were Found On Earth"
I will though, since I'm pretty sure "space archaeology" doesn't actually exist as a field.
I will though, since I'm pretty sure "space archaeology" doesn't actually exist as a field.
Monday, January 11, 2016
Something to think about
If an artist like David Bowie emerged today, what would happen? Would he still become an international superstar by sheer force of talent and personality, or would he be relegated to indie icon by the music industry that squeezes the creative life out of everything?
I'm glad Bowie's star was able to shine so bright. There will never be another like him, but I hope future artists with a similar spark will still be able to find an audience. Imagine a world without these classic artists. We might have already lost a Bowie, McCartney, etc. level talent in all the computer-generated noise. We might have lost several. My hope today is that organic music, created by musicians rather than studios looking for a quick buck and things that need to be plugged in to have a soul, can keep living on.
Remember. This is what we might be missing. This is what's at stake. Don't let the classics exist in a vacuum of "the good old days." Another legend is gone. Let's honor his memory by honoring music, the kind of music that comes from an intangible place inside the creator and is theirs alone. Music that is created rather than programmed. It can be acoustic, it can be electronic, as long as it comes from the opposite of cynicism.
I'm glad Bowie's star was able to shine so bright. There will never be another like him, but I hope future artists with a similar spark will still be able to find an audience. Imagine a world without these classic artists. We might have already lost a Bowie, McCartney, etc. level talent in all the computer-generated noise. We might have lost several. My hope today is that organic music, created by musicians rather than studios looking for a quick buck and things that need to be plugged in to have a soul, can keep living on.
Remember. This is what we might be missing. This is what's at stake. Don't let the classics exist in a vacuum of "the good old days." Another legend is gone. Let's honor his memory by honoring music, the kind of music that comes from an intangible place inside the creator and is theirs alone. Music that is created rather than programmed. It can be acoustic, it can be electronic, as long as it comes from the opposite of cynicism.
Friday, January 08, 2016
Worthless Yahoo Headline of the Day
um.
"John Stamos Talks Rehab and Surprise Pregnancy"
...what kind of rehab was that, exactly?
"John Stamos Talks Rehab and Surprise Pregnancy"
...what kind of rehab was that, exactly?
Thursday, January 07, 2016
TBT
For today's throwback Thursday, I'm gonna talk about something that clearly belongs in the throwback category - self-empowerment songs! With the near-universal negative critical reception of "Fight Song," as well as the dull "Roar" a couple years ago*, I think this well has pretty much run dry. Exactly how many times can you say, "NO, I'm awesome, take THAT!" and make it sound fresh?
*remember when you were a kid enjoying some sweet tunes in your room and your mom asked you to keep it down to a "dull roar?" Yeah. And that was definitely not the sweet tune you were listening to.
Let's start in the 1970s. One could ask the question, did we really need any song like this other than "I Will Survive?" Doesn't that kinda say everything, while also sounding ridiculously awesome? Well... here are a handful of other empowerment anthems I actually find worthy. This is just off the top of my head, no research this time so if I forgot something, maybe I'll revisit it.
The Greatest Love of All - Whitney Houston was amazing. She was my favorite artist for a time, because I've always been about vocals. This song nails it not so much because of the melody or lyrics, which could sound trite in the hands of a lesser vocalist, but because Whitney owns the shit out of this. Like she did everything in the 80s.
Eye of the Tiger - Not so much an empowerment anthem as a kickass rock song, but it's from a Rocky movie and there are like, none of these songs sung by men, so I'll take it. And it sure gets you pumped up. Just ask Dean Winchester.
My favorite thing in the world, ladies and gentlemen.
One Way Ticket - LeAnn Rimes - I like this one because it focuses on something different, and rather specific: I'm going to have adventures! I'm not just going to feel good about me, I'm gonna do it in... Paris! or wherever. Drink champagne! Sail the seas! Arrrrr! This song doesn't just say "hey, I can do things," it lists actual things you can do. You go, girl!
Born This Way - A gay empowerment anthem from Lady Gaga, because duh. Obviously it can appeal to more than just gays, but this is a rare one of these songs I could actually see saving someone's life, or at least cheering someone up if they're getting bullied or something.
Follow Your Arrow - Another smart and modern take on being yourself. Some people might be put off by the pot and lesbian references, especially in country music, but it clearly speaks to its audience. I neither roll joints nor kiss girls, and I dig the hell out of this. Because I drink wine and kiss cats. I'm following my arrow. Yeah!
Firework - This one borders on generic territory, but Katy Perry saves it. Her voice can be underwhelming at times, as I pointed out on Roar, but she brings a real power and intensity to this song that's undeniable. That said, this is the last pop song like this we ever needed. Katy closed out this chapter with um, a bang. (sorry.)
AND YET, we still got "What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger," which I thought would be the worst, most generic example until "Song Song," I mean Fight Song came along. (First rule about Fight Song: don't talk about Fight Song. Seriously, there's nothing to say about it. Go read a book or something.) And that's a shame, because Kelly Clarkson is both a great vocalist and a likeable artist. But not even she could save, "You know the bed feels warmer sleeping here alone" - WHY? Did you move it next to the fireplace? Is your cat sleeping on your head? - or "You think you got the best of me, think you had the last laugh" MUAHAHAHA! MINE IS AN EVIL LAUGH! God, I hate that song. And Fight Song one-upped it. Or... one-downed it. Whatever.
Oh yeah, "Shake it Off" is in a whole other category, cause it's not really a self-empowerment song, it's a Taylor Swift-specific-empowerment song. It's pretty bad, but it's catchy and harmless, so whatever. I can't work up much hate for Taylor Swift, if anything I like her more since she dropped the country shell and went full pop. THAT is kind of empowering, to be honest.
So, since this kind of song is clearly played out, where do we go from here? Well, I like the idea of more specific themes. Maybe not "empowerment" songs, per se, but... let's look at two interesting, personal songs from 2015.
Kacey Musgraves' Pageant Material - I wouldn't call this an empowerment song, more of a humorous slice of life with a message, but the message is an empowering one. "I ain't pageant material... I'd rather lose for what I am than win for what I ain't."
Alessia Cara's Here - This is almost an anti-empowerment song ("I HATE THIS PLACE AND EVERYONE IN IT") and yet... well, it kind of is empowering for us introverts and other people who don't like loud, stupid parties and just want to hang out with the people we actually like. It's empowering because people just don't say stuff like this, usually. The introvert narrative just isn't out there. So for people who find this song empowering by way of being relatable, I get it.
And that's what I think the future is. Relatable songs using specific anecdotes, rather than broad platitudes we've heard a million times before. Bring something new to the table, and you might actually change someone's life for the better instead of putting them to sleep. Unless the person is an insomniac, then awesome, you solved their problem.
*remember when you were a kid enjoying some sweet tunes in your room and your mom asked you to keep it down to a "dull roar?" Yeah. And that was definitely not the sweet tune you were listening to.
Let's start in the 1970s. One could ask the question, did we really need any song like this other than "I Will Survive?" Doesn't that kinda say everything, while also sounding ridiculously awesome? Well... here are a handful of other empowerment anthems I actually find worthy. This is just off the top of my head, no research this time so if I forgot something, maybe I'll revisit it.
The Greatest Love of All - Whitney Houston was amazing. She was my favorite artist for a time, because I've always been about vocals. This song nails it not so much because of the melody or lyrics, which could sound trite in the hands of a lesser vocalist, but because Whitney owns the shit out of this. Like she did everything in the 80s.
Eye of the Tiger - Not so much an empowerment anthem as a kickass rock song, but it's from a Rocky movie and there are like, none of these songs sung by men, so I'll take it. And it sure gets you pumped up. Just ask Dean Winchester.
My favorite thing in the world, ladies and gentlemen.
One Way Ticket - LeAnn Rimes - I like this one because it focuses on something different, and rather specific: I'm going to have adventures! I'm not just going to feel good about me, I'm gonna do it in... Paris! or wherever. Drink champagne! Sail the seas! Arrrrr! This song doesn't just say "hey, I can do things," it lists actual things you can do. You go, girl!
Born This Way - A gay empowerment anthem from Lady Gaga, because duh. Obviously it can appeal to more than just gays, but this is a rare one of these songs I could actually see saving someone's life, or at least cheering someone up if they're getting bullied or something.
Follow Your Arrow - Another smart and modern take on being yourself. Some people might be put off by the pot and lesbian references, especially in country music, but it clearly speaks to its audience. I neither roll joints nor kiss girls, and I dig the hell out of this. Because I drink wine and kiss cats. I'm following my arrow. Yeah!
Firework - This one borders on generic territory, but Katy Perry saves it. Her voice can be underwhelming at times, as I pointed out on Roar, but she brings a real power and intensity to this song that's undeniable. That said, this is the last pop song like this we ever needed. Katy closed out this chapter with um, a bang. (sorry.)
AND YET, we still got "What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger," which I thought would be the worst, most generic example until "Song Song," I mean Fight Song came along. (First rule about Fight Song: don't talk about Fight Song. Seriously, there's nothing to say about it. Go read a book or something.) And that's a shame, because Kelly Clarkson is both a great vocalist and a likeable artist. But not even she could save, "You know the bed feels warmer sleeping here alone" - WHY? Did you move it next to the fireplace? Is your cat sleeping on your head? - or "You think you got the best of me, think you had the last laugh" MUAHAHAHA! MINE IS AN EVIL LAUGH! God, I hate that song. And Fight Song one-upped it. Or... one-downed it. Whatever.
Oh yeah, "Shake it Off" is in a whole other category, cause it's not really a self-empowerment song, it's a Taylor Swift-specific-empowerment song. It's pretty bad, but it's catchy and harmless, so whatever. I can't work up much hate for Taylor Swift, if anything I like her more since she dropped the country shell and went full pop. THAT is kind of empowering, to be honest.
So, since this kind of song is clearly played out, where do we go from here? Well, I like the idea of more specific themes. Maybe not "empowerment" songs, per se, but... let's look at two interesting, personal songs from 2015.
Kacey Musgraves' Pageant Material - I wouldn't call this an empowerment song, more of a humorous slice of life with a message, but the message is an empowering one. "I ain't pageant material... I'd rather lose for what I am than win for what I ain't."
Alessia Cara's Here - This is almost an anti-empowerment song ("I HATE THIS PLACE AND EVERYONE IN IT") and yet... well, it kind of is empowering for us introverts and other people who don't like loud, stupid parties and just want to hang out with the people we actually like. It's empowering because people just don't say stuff like this, usually. The introvert narrative just isn't out there. So for people who find this song empowering by way of being relatable, I get it.
And that's what I think the future is. Relatable songs using specific anecdotes, rather than broad platitudes we've heard a million times before. Bring something new to the table, and you might actually change someone's life for the better instead of putting them to sleep. Unless the person is an insomniac, then awesome, you solved their problem.
Wednesday, January 06, 2016
Oops, I missed New Music Tuesday. Well it's Wednesday, and here's some music. I'm a rebel.
Eric Church is an artist I haven't mentioned much, other than I really like "Springsteen." He's someone I feel like I should be into more, but just hasn't pulled me in. He's obviously a talented musician, he probably listens to a lot of cool stuff, but most of his songs just leave me wanting. I don't know if his own conceit got in the way, or he was trying to straddle mainstream and indie and not really succeeding at either, or just hadn't found his groove, or whatever. That said, I've only heard his singles, so I understand he might have good album material. But until Mr. Misunderstood, I was never inclined to check out one of his albums.
How can I describe this song, besides "it's really good?" Well, this is pretty much what I wanted Eric Church to be. Finally, a single that doesn't fall short of his artistic perception. He definitely went with the "indie" side, and that was 100% the right choice. It suits him, and it's just damn good music. Because he's an established radio artist, I imagine this will get some airplay. I don't know how much play it will get since it's clearly too good for radio, or if it will resonate with mainstream listeners. But I applaud Eric Church for putting quality music out there, and this song and album will have much more lasting appeal than the latest Luke Bryan dropping, in the long run. That's the sign of a musician, an artist. I never thought he was a "poser" like some seemed to, but this is the first I've heard him live up to his potential. This is that perfect mix of country and heartland rock I was waiting for.
I hope this at least cracks the top 20, so I can put it on my best hit songs list of 2016. It's only January 6, but I guarantee this song is a shoo-in. I love it. EDIT: Mr. Misunderstood is currently at #17. Hot damn, pencil it in. I've only just started processing the album so I don't have all my favorites down yet, but I can tell you it's rich, textured, smart, and deserving of many listens.
Church's album is the first country album I've listened to in a while, since Ashley Monroe's excellent The Blade (which I got to late). I've definitely been more on a rock kick, especially alt-rock lately. I needed a break from country. (Though surprisingly, Church's album fits right in with my alt-rock mood. It's a cool, indie record store kind of album. In the good, non-pretentious way.)
The album that kind of took over my life when I first heard it last month is Weezer's 2014 release, Everything Will Be Alright in the End. First of all, what a great title. It might as well have "Don't Panic" written on it in large, friendly letters. Second, the title doesn't lie. After a string of mediocre to almost bad albums, Weezer came back BIG TIME here. Like, this might have actually unseated Maladroit as my favorite Weezer album. (Maladriot is hard to beat, as it's basically Weezer catchiness set to hard crunchy rock music.)
If you like Weezer, especially their classic early stuff, Everything Will Be Alright will probably be one of your favorite albums of the past few years. It's definitely one of mine. Just one great, catchy song after another, from "Back to the Shack" to "Lonely Girl" to "The British are Coming" to "Foolish Father" to the burst of an opening track "Ain't Got Nobody" and my personal favorite "Go Away," with Best Coast's Bethany Cosentino. (Which I posted previously.) Pure OMG sonic yumminess.
I lost the thread of Weezer post-Maladriot (I guess you could say, I came undone) since I didn't care for anything off Make Believe other than the ubiquitous "Perfect Situation." That's actually a great song. I gave brief listens to the unremarkable albums they released between that and Everything, and came up with only one song I really liked, off of Hurley. But wow, what an awesome song. This would fit right in on Everything. Despite a few missteps, I count Rivers Cuomo as one of the top songwriters of my generation.
So there you go, two unrelated artists who have expanded my musical happiness lately!
Eric Church is an artist I haven't mentioned much, other than I really like "Springsteen." He's someone I feel like I should be into more, but just hasn't pulled me in. He's obviously a talented musician, he probably listens to a lot of cool stuff, but most of his songs just leave me wanting. I don't know if his own conceit got in the way, or he was trying to straddle mainstream and indie and not really succeeding at either, or just hadn't found his groove, or whatever. That said, I've only heard his singles, so I understand he might have good album material. But until Mr. Misunderstood, I was never inclined to check out one of his albums.
How can I describe this song, besides "it's really good?" Well, this is pretty much what I wanted Eric Church to be. Finally, a single that doesn't fall short of his artistic perception. He definitely went with the "indie" side, and that was 100% the right choice. It suits him, and it's just damn good music. Because he's an established radio artist, I imagine this will get some airplay. I don't know how much play it will get since it's clearly too good for radio, or if it will resonate with mainstream listeners. But I applaud Eric Church for putting quality music out there, and this song and album will have much more lasting appeal than the latest Luke Bryan dropping, in the long run. That's the sign of a musician, an artist. I never thought he was a "poser" like some seemed to, but this is the first I've heard him live up to his potential. This is that perfect mix of country and heartland rock I was waiting for.
I hope this at least cracks the top 20, so I can put it on my best hit songs list of 2016. It's only January 6, but I guarantee this song is a shoo-in. I love it. EDIT: Mr. Misunderstood is currently at #17. Hot damn, pencil it in. I've only just started processing the album so I don't have all my favorites down yet, but I can tell you it's rich, textured, smart, and deserving of many listens.
Church's album is the first country album I've listened to in a while, since Ashley Monroe's excellent The Blade (which I got to late). I've definitely been more on a rock kick, especially alt-rock lately. I needed a break from country. (Though surprisingly, Church's album fits right in with my alt-rock mood. It's a cool, indie record store kind of album. In the good, non-pretentious way.)
The album that kind of took over my life when I first heard it last month is Weezer's 2014 release, Everything Will Be Alright in the End. First of all, what a great title. It might as well have "Don't Panic" written on it in large, friendly letters. Second, the title doesn't lie. After a string of mediocre to almost bad albums, Weezer came back BIG TIME here. Like, this might have actually unseated Maladroit as my favorite Weezer album. (Maladriot is hard to beat, as it's basically Weezer catchiness set to hard crunchy rock music.)
If you like Weezer, especially their classic early stuff, Everything Will Be Alright will probably be one of your favorite albums of the past few years. It's definitely one of mine. Just one great, catchy song after another, from "Back to the Shack" to "Lonely Girl" to "The British are Coming" to "Foolish Father" to the burst of an opening track "Ain't Got Nobody" and my personal favorite "Go Away," with Best Coast's Bethany Cosentino. (Which I posted previously.) Pure OMG sonic yumminess.
I lost the thread of Weezer post-Maladriot (I guess you could say, I came undone) since I didn't care for anything off Make Believe other than the ubiquitous "Perfect Situation." That's actually a great song. I gave brief listens to the unremarkable albums they released between that and Everything, and came up with only one song I really liked, off of Hurley. But wow, what an awesome song. This would fit right in on Everything. Despite a few missteps, I count Rivers Cuomo as one of the top songwriters of my generation.
So there you go, two unrelated artists who have expanded my musical happiness lately!
Tuesday, January 05, 2016
Worthless Yahoo Headline of the Day
"MIRANDA LAMBERT: TWEET LIKED BY GWEN STEFANI, ALTHOUGH GWEN STILL DOESN’T FOLLOW HER"
LIKE OMG YOU GUYS!! Hurray, apparently both Gwen and Miranda are more mature than the people who write Yahoo news headlines, who are clearly twelve. (I'm not betting the farm on Blake, though. Seriously, how does that corny doofball get these amazing women?)
I hate when celebs I love become tabloid fodder. Miranda might be the first one. I wish her happiness, dignity, and great music in her new relationship.
LIKE OMG YOU GUYS!! Hurray, apparently both Gwen and Miranda are more mature than the people who write Yahoo news headlines, who are clearly twelve. (I'm not betting the farm on Blake, though. Seriously, how does that corny doofball get these amazing women?)
I hate when celebs I love become tabloid fodder. Miranda might be the first one. I wish her happiness, dignity, and great music in her new relationship.
Thursday, December 31, 2015
"Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer
had a very shiny nose
and if you ever saw it
you would even say it glows.
All of the other reindeer
used to laugh and call him names
They never let poor Rudolph
join in any reindeer games.
Then one foggy Christmas eve
Santa came to say:
'Rudolph with your nose so bright,
won't you guide my sleigh tonight?'
THEN all the reindeer loved him
Cuz reindeer are dicks."
THE END of the holidays!! HAPPY NEW BEER!!! (a new year is just a date on the calendar, but a new beer is a thing of beauty.)
I don't make resolutions, I make threats. Don't suck, 2016, or I'll knock you back into 2015, so help me.
had a very shiny nose
and if you ever saw it
you would even say it glows.
All of the other reindeer
used to laugh and call him names
They never let poor Rudolph
join in any reindeer games.
Then one foggy Christmas eve
Santa came to say:
'Rudolph with your nose so bright,
won't you guide my sleigh tonight?'
THEN all the reindeer loved him
Cuz reindeer are dicks."
THE END of the holidays!! HAPPY NEW BEER!!! (a new year is just a date on the calendar, but a new beer is a thing of beauty.)
I don't make resolutions, I make threats. Don't suck, 2016, or I'll knock you back into 2015, so help me.
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
I really dislike Meghan Trainor. Not just her musical output, but the persona she's created: every stereotype that's made me avoid so-called "chick culture."
But proving the blind squirrel theory right, her latest single "Like I'm Gonna Lose You," a duet with John Legend, is actually really nice. Part of it is John Legend classing it up; John Legend could class up a gas station men's room. But a lot of it is the song itself. This song could easily be reworked into a classic country duet, it already has a kind of country-soul vibe. If any country stars wanted to jump on its popularity, I sure wouldn't complain. Maybe, idk, Miranda Lambert & Chris Stapleton? Cause that would just KILL EVERYTHING. In the good way.
Meghan is the weakest part of the song. Her voice is fine, nothing special but I don't think it's awful like a lot of people seem to. It's more what she sings that annoys me than the sound of her voice, except when she gets really strident. But that's persona again, not lack of vocal capability. So here on a non-annoying song, she's actually listenable for once, if not great. Where I could see someone like Miranda, or maybe Cam, just setting this song on fire with smooth, sultry vocals, Meghan Trainor is not "sultry." Meghan Trainor always sounds like she's aggressively trying to sell you Girl Scout cookies. She's toned down here, but that's just it: it's "toned down Meghan Trainor," not the kind of true subtlety, depth, or emotion that would give the song its deserved poignancy. John Legend is a much better fit. He has a gorgeous voice that's often wasted on dull, middle of the road stuff like "All of Me." I hate when super talented artists do "safe" material. Nobody wants to hear Aretha Franklin cover Pat Boone, you know?
So yeah, I'll give credit where it's due. Mostly to John Legend and some really nice songwriting, but I can actually say I like a Meghan Trainor song. Maybe she'll tone down her act with maturity and become a more likable, well-rounded artist. I do think she has some potential. And speaking of potential... make the country duet of this song happen. It'll work with the right people, I guarantee it.
But proving the blind squirrel theory right, her latest single "Like I'm Gonna Lose You," a duet with John Legend, is actually really nice. Part of it is John Legend classing it up; John Legend could class up a gas station men's room. But a lot of it is the song itself. This song could easily be reworked into a classic country duet, it already has a kind of country-soul vibe. If any country stars wanted to jump on its popularity, I sure wouldn't complain. Maybe, idk, Miranda Lambert & Chris Stapleton? Cause that would just KILL EVERYTHING. In the good way.
Meghan is the weakest part of the song. Her voice is fine, nothing special but I don't think it's awful like a lot of people seem to. It's more what she sings that annoys me than the sound of her voice, except when she gets really strident. But that's persona again, not lack of vocal capability. So here on a non-annoying song, she's actually listenable for once, if not great. Where I could see someone like Miranda, or maybe Cam, just setting this song on fire with smooth, sultry vocals, Meghan Trainor is not "sultry." Meghan Trainor always sounds like she's aggressively trying to sell you Girl Scout cookies. She's toned down here, but that's just it: it's "toned down Meghan Trainor," not the kind of true subtlety, depth, or emotion that would give the song its deserved poignancy. John Legend is a much better fit. He has a gorgeous voice that's often wasted on dull, middle of the road stuff like "All of Me." I hate when super talented artists do "safe" material. Nobody wants to hear Aretha Franklin cover Pat Boone, you know?
So yeah, I'll give credit where it's due. Mostly to John Legend and some really nice songwriting, but I can actually say I like a Meghan Trainor song. Maybe she'll tone down her act with maturity and become a more likable, well-rounded artist. I do think she has some potential. And speaking of potential... make the country duet of this song happen. It'll work with the right people, I guarantee it.
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
It occurred to me, as I typed the immortal words "mitch better have my bunny" - people listen to stupid songs like "Bitch Better Have My Money," "I Don't Fuck With You," etc. just so they can goof on them, don't they? People don't think these songs are actually good, they just create a sort of large cultural umbrella of mockery. Like, "Yeah, this is bad, but I'm having a good time with its badness!"
That doesn't explain how mediocre shit like Fight Song gets popular, but I think I'm onto something. People like ridiculous, at least up to a point, likely because life can be very boring. I... sort of get it now. I just wish such ironic enjoyment didn't make undeserving "artists" actual money.
If this is true, I do feel bad for today's kids, if this is what they get out of popular songs. I can tell you one thing, growing up in the 80s I NEVER felt like I was born in "the wrong generation." If I'd had such self-awareness, and the power to see into the future, I would have said "I was born in exactly the right generation. This music and culture fits me perfectly." Oh, there was silly music that was enjoyed ironically in the 80s too*, but I feel there wasn't quite so much focus on that.
*Frankie Say Relax! Rock Me Amadeus! Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go! Wham's entire career! Even Material Girl up to a point, but I think that song is actually good!
I don't think I've heard any 80s/90s kid, then or now, say they were born in "the wrong generation." I remember there was already nostalgia for the 80s IN THE 90S, and the 90s were actually pretty great. There will always be 80s nostalgia. That decade just nailed it (at least the early-mid part. The late 80s suuucked, but everyone forgets that.) Death, taxes, cockroaches, and 80s nostalgia. These things in life are certain.
That doesn't explain how mediocre shit like Fight Song gets popular, but I think I'm onto something. People like ridiculous, at least up to a point, likely because life can be very boring. I... sort of get it now. I just wish such ironic enjoyment didn't make undeserving "artists" actual money.
If this is true, I do feel bad for today's kids, if this is what they get out of popular songs. I can tell you one thing, growing up in the 80s I NEVER felt like I was born in "the wrong generation." If I'd had such self-awareness, and the power to see into the future, I would have said "I was born in exactly the right generation. This music and culture fits me perfectly." Oh, there was silly music that was enjoyed ironically in the 80s too*, but I feel there wasn't quite so much focus on that.
*Frankie Say Relax! Rock Me Amadeus! Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go! Wham's entire career! Even Material Girl up to a point, but I think that song is actually good!
I don't think I've heard any 80s/90s kid, then or now, say they were born in "the wrong generation." I remember there was already nostalgia for the 80s IN THE 90S, and the 90s were actually pretty great. There will always be 80s nostalgia. That decade just nailed it (at least the early-mid part. The late 80s suuucked, but everyone forgets that.) Death, taxes, cockroaches, and 80s nostalgia. These things in life are certain.
Music musings
Wow, it's been a month already since I made my best and worst songs lists. Maybe it was a tad early, but I wanted them to be my unfiltered opinion, with no chance of influence from other lists. (Also, I knew my best albums list would take a while, and I wanted to get the easier stuff done first.) Now that I've seen what's on some other lists, here's my perspective on a few of those songs. I will not be changing my lists, that would kinda defeat the point of doing them early. But if I was going to change them, I'd probably move a couple honorable mentions onto the list.
THE LIST: http://mrsrowsdower.blogspot.ca/2015_11_01_archive.html#862964098771776360
I didn't change any songs, but I did add commentary to a few of them.
Also, I might do separate pop and country lists next year, even though they get harder and harder to tell apart.
I already wrote this, but it almost pains me to have not included "Dear Future Husband" on the actual list. I hated that song the first time I heard it, and it just gets worse with repeated listens. I let the pleasant, ripped-off-from-Runaround-Sue melody impede my judgment, plus I'd already put a much worse Meghan Trainor song at #2. But yeah, I'd definitely take out the MUCH less offensive "Hotline Bling" for that piece of hot garbage. Hotline Bling is actually... okay.
I'm on the fence about "Fight Song." It's such a dull motivational shout* but can it really be called bad? Like on the same level as "Kick the Dust Up", or "Marvin Gaye", or "I Don't Fuck With You?" Okay, it's not on that level, nothing is, not even Hitler's toenail clippings.
But what is it about Fight Song? I think it's a case of a song being so bland, so trite, so many words saying nothing at all, that it actually goes past boring into bad. I'd say it's the Hallmark card of music, but Hallmark cards serve an actual purpose. This is the poster child for empty motivation, a literal motivation poster set to music. And the music is pseudo-inspirational movie trailer pap. This was tired when Kelly Clarkson did it years ago, and to hear such a watered-down version of even that in 2015 is downright insulting. It's the plain white label brand of music, the BEER of beer, the CRACKERS of crackers, the SONG of songs. I didn't put it on the actual list just for being generic, but I keep finding more and more to say about it. So I think it belongs there.
*yes, you can have a dull shout. Go stand on a beach or something and yell "I JUST DID MY TAXES WOOOOOOOO!"
I do think "Watch Me" is technically the worst hit song of the year, by the standard that something like that was an actual hit. It's like if an infomercial became a top rated tv show. Though people do watch reality tv and they're probably the same ones who think Watch Me is an actual song, so whatever. It's too inconsequential to put on a list though; that's like validating its existence.
I forgot about Rihanna's "Mitch Better Have My Bunny," err, "Bitch Better Have My Money" when doing my HMs, and I'm fine with that. Not even worth it. This is the best you can do, Rihanna? Okay then, I'll just forget it exists.
I seem to be one of the few who got enraged by the teen whininess of "Stitches." I don't think I've seen it on any other lists yet. To that I say, yay! I like having different opinions. And look, you don't have to write whiny shit just because you're a teen. Lorde proved that. So did Taylor Swift. "Teardrops on My Guitar" is a heartache song that was clearly written by a teenager, but it doesn't go into cringe territory. "Now that I'm without your kisses, I'll be needing stitches" is the second-worst lyric* in a hit song this year. Well, one that was actually trying, anyway.
*yeah, you can't really beat "let's Marvin Gaye and get it on."
Speaking of different opinions, my #5 pick was Selena Gomez's "Good for You," and I'm amazed it's getting any praise. It's such a nothing song, breathy vocals, no melody to speak of, some guest rapper chiming in, whoop de doo. YAWN.
Two songs that seem to be polarizing are "Honey I'm Good" and "Cool for the Summer." Honey I'm Good kind of annoys me, not just for the self-congratulatory pat on the back for... not cheating, but mostly because it sounds like Rednex "Cotton Eye Joe." Is that REALLY something we needed back? "Cool for the Summer" doesn't do anything for me, but it's not bad. The rock vibe is okay, though I totally don't buy her as a rock chick. She's a packaged kind of rock. A pet rock. lol.
Justin Bieber... sigh. I put two of his hits in the HMs and I have to be honest. I mostly put them there because he belongs on a "top 10 worst artist" list. The actual songs, except maybe that crying whale one (DEAR GOD SOMEONE GO HELP THAT POOR WHALE) are more dull than actually bad, and if they were by any other singer I could just ignore them. But they do belong in the HMs, because I'm sick of the "it's not BAD, so it's decent" line of thinking. Yes, he's not as bad as he used to be. I less want to punch his stupid haircut than lightly slap it. But that doesn't mean he's good, or even okay. He's matured into boring. Yay??!? He is not an interesting or emotive singer. Like, Sam Smith is a much better singer and I even find him dull, because I don't get any real emotional punch from him. So you can imagine the effect Bieber's dripping voice has on me.
Is he actually less annoying now, or is he just benefitting from the word "shawty" falling into disuse? Would he have matured to that point on his own, or did society do the job for him? Who knows. At any rate, it appears the "little punk" phase of his career may be over. And that was the interesting phase. So I guess we have to look forward to years and years of boring, safe pop music. Which means he probably won't appear on any future lists, and I won't have to talk about him ever again. THE END!
...Almost. Why did I pick "I Don't Fuck With You" over "Marvin Gaye" for worst of the year, when I seem to hate Marvin Gaye so much more? Well, Marvin Gaye is one of the worst songs of all time. And with lines like "When you leave me all alone, I'm like a dog without a bone" - in case you thought Meghan Trainor couldn't possibly flatter herself less than in Dear Future Doormat - it's also one of the most ill-conceived. It was DOA. But, it does have a melody. It does sound like a piece of... music. I Don't Fuck With You is probably the most un-musical piece of music I have ever heard. It's an ugly cacophony, and the lyrics? Well, Marvin Gaye is clearly trying to be good, or at least cute, and is in fact horrible. I Don't Fuck is clearly trying to be bad, and is in fact horrible. I've gotta call the lyrics a tie, which brings it down to the music, which is no bloody contest. So there you go.
THE LIST: http://mrsrowsdower.blogspot.ca/2015_11_01_archive.html#862964098771776360
I didn't change any songs, but I did add commentary to a few of them.
Also, I might do separate pop and country lists next year, even though they get harder and harder to tell apart.
I already wrote this, but it almost pains me to have not included "Dear Future Husband" on the actual list. I hated that song the first time I heard it, and it just gets worse with repeated listens. I let the pleasant, ripped-off-from-Runaround-Sue melody impede my judgment, plus I'd already put a much worse Meghan Trainor song at #2. But yeah, I'd definitely take out the MUCH less offensive "Hotline Bling" for that piece of hot garbage. Hotline Bling is actually... okay.
I'm on the fence about "Fight Song." It's such a dull motivational shout* but can it really be called bad? Like on the same level as "Kick the Dust Up", or "Marvin Gaye", or "I Don't Fuck With You?" Okay, it's not on that level, nothing is, not even Hitler's toenail clippings.
But what is it about Fight Song? I think it's a case of a song being so bland, so trite, so many words saying nothing at all, that it actually goes past boring into bad. I'd say it's the Hallmark card of music, but Hallmark cards serve an actual purpose. This is the poster child for empty motivation, a literal motivation poster set to music. And the music is pseudo-inspirational movie trailer pap. This was tired when Kelly Clarkson did it years ago, and to hear such a watered-down version of even that in 2015 is downright insulting. It's the plain white label brand of music, the BEER of beer, the CRACKERS of crackers, the SONG of songs. I didn't put it on the actual list just for being generic, but I keep finding more and more to say about it. So I think it belongs there.
*yes, you can have a dull shout. Go stand on a beach or something and yell "I JUST DID MY TAXES WOOOOOOOO!"
I do think "Watch Me" is technically the worst hit song of the year, by the standard that something like that was an actual hit. It's like if an infomercial became a top rated tv show. Though people do watch reality tv and they're probably the same ones who think Watch Me is an actual song, so whatever. It's too inconsequential to put on a list though; that's like validating its existence.
I forgot about Rihanna's "Mitch Better Have My Bunny," err, "Bitch Better Have My Money" when doing my HMs, and I'm fine with that. Not even worth it. This is the best you can do, Rihanna? Okay then, I'll just forget it exists.
I seem to be one of the few who got enraged by the teen whininess of "Stitches." I don't think I've seen it on any other lists yet. To that I say, yay! I like having different opinions. And look, you don't have to write whiny shit just because you're a teen. Lorde proved that. So did Taylor Swift. "Teardrops on My Guitar" is a heartache song that was clearly written by a teenager, but it doesn't go into cringe territory. "Now that I'm without your kisses, I'll be needing stitches" is the second-worst lyric* in a hit song this year. Well, one that was actually trying, anyway.
*yeah, you can't really beat "let's Marvin Gaye and get it on."
Speaking of different opinions, my #5 pick was Selena Gomez's "Good for You," and I'm amazed it's getting any praise. It's such a nothing song, breathy vocals, no melody to speak of, some guest rapper chiming in, whoop de doo. YAWN.
Two songs that seem to be polarizing are "Honey I'm Good" and "Cool for the Summer." Honey I'm Good kind of annoys me, not just for the self-congratulatory pat on the back for... not cheating, but mostly because it sounds like Rednex "Cotton Eye Joe." Is that REALLY something we needed back? "Cool for the Summer" doesn't do anything for me, but it's not bad. The rock vibe is okay, though I totally don't buy her as a rock chick. She's a packaged kind of rock. A pet rock. lol.
Justin Bieber... sigh. I put two of his hits in the HMs and I have to be honest. I mostly put them there because he belongs on a "top 10 worst artist" list. The actual songs, except maybe that crying whale one (DEAR GOD SOMEONE GO HELP THAT POOR WHALE) are more dull than actually bad, and if they were by any other singer I could just ignore them. But they do belong in the HMs, because I'm sick of the "it's not BAD, so it's decent" line of thinking. Yes, he's not as bad as he used to be. I less want to punch his stupid haircut than lightly slap it. But that doesn't mean he's good, or even okay. He's matured into boring. Yay??!? He is not an interesting or emotive singer. Like, Sam Smith is a much better singer and I even find him dull, because I don't get any real emotional punch from him. So you can imagine the effect Bieber's dripping voice has on me.
Is he actually less annoying now, or is he just benefitting from the word "shawty" falling into disuse? Would he have matured to that point on his own, or did society do the job for him? Who knows. At any rate, it appears the "little punk" phase of his career may be over. And that was the interesting phase. So I guess we have to look forward to years and years of boring, safe pop music. Which means he probably won't appear on any future lists, and I won't have to talk about him ever again. THE END!
...Almost. Why did I pick "I Don't Fuck With You" over "Marvin Gaye" for worst of the year, when I seem to hate Marvin Gaye so much more? Well, Marvin Gaye is one of the worst songs of all time. And with lines like "When you leave me all alone, I'm like a dog without a bone" - in case you thought Meghan Trainor couldn't possibly flatter herself less than in Dear Future Doormat - it's also one of the most ill-conceived. It was DOA. But, it does have a melody. It does sound like a piece of... music. I Don't Fuck With You is probably the most un-musical piece of music I have ever heard. It's an ugly cacophony, and the lyrics? Well, Marvin Gaye is clearly trying to be good, or at least cute, and is in fact horrible. I Don't Fuck is clearly trying to be bad, and is in fact horrible. I've gotta call the lyrics a tie, which brings it down to the music, which is no bloody contest. So there you go.
New Music Tuesday
This album was released earlier this year, but I just found it this past month. If you're looking for a cool, vintage California feel, skip Lana del Rey and go for Best Coast. This isn't "deep" music, but it isn't trying to be.
Bonus! Best Coast's Bethany Cosentino guests on a track from Weezer's AMAZING 2014 album Everything Will Be Alright in the End:
There's a lot of shitty "retro" inspired music out there right now - Meghan Trainor, Thomas Rhett, etc., but this is how you do it right. This sounds like real, organic music, not a cheesy school play about the 60s.
Bonus! Best Coast's Bethany Cosentino guests on a track from Weezer's AMAZING 2014 album Everything Will Be Alright in the End:
There's a lot of shitty "retro" inspired music out there right now - Meghan Trainor, Thomas Rhett, etc., but this is how you do it right. This sounds like real, organic music, not a cheesy school play about the 60s.
Monday, December 21, 2015
Worthless Yahoo Headline of the Day
"Polls may actually underestimate Trump's support, study finds"
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!
Thursday, December 17, 2015
tbt
A sweet track from one of my go-to happy place albums. I don't even want to think about what life would be like without this album. That's how major it is.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Chart thoughts
Favorite song in the Hot 100 I haven't talked about yet: "Stressed Out" by twenty one pilots. "Wish we could turn back time, to the good ol' days, when our momma sang us to sleep but now we're stressed out... Out of student loans and treehouse homes, we all would take the latter." That last line reminds me of my blog's tagline, which is taken from an 80s song by Too Much Joy. I kind of wish this song would change the world. It won't, but it's really sad we have to be stressed out so much of our lives.
"Fight Song" singer Rachel Platten continues her search for the Most Generic Song Title with "Stand By You." I guess "Hang in There" was just too revolutionary? I haven't actually heard the song, maybe it's hella deep, but... okay, lyric search time. "Even if we can't find heaven, I'll walk through hell with you, love, you're not alone, 'cause I'm gonna stand by you." That's actually... really goshdarn touching. Well, never mind. Still really boring title.
Drake and Future team up to see who can out-monotone mumble each other this time. I'm on the edge of my seat!
Luke Bryan ensures that every mainstream country song will have the word "tonight" in it til the end of time, with the pissy snoozefest "Home Alone Tonight." Someone wake up Karen Fairchild so she can go home and pretend this never happened.
Charlie Puth continues to exist, despite overwhelming evidence that he shouldn't.
Why weren't "Downtown" and "Wildest Dreams" bigger hits. I like those songs.
Why is that "New Americana" thing climbing up again DEAR GOD STOP IT BEFORE IT CONSUMES US ALL WITH ITS LEGAL MARIJUANA AND TEEN POETRY BULLSHIT (I have a possibly irrational hatred for this thing. It just GRATES).
Beautiful Drug is gonna tank hard. Sorry Zac, but the only thing worse than a sellout song is a really bad sellout song. Sung by a hypocrite. (I still dig you though. Mostly.)
...There are too many Biebers on this chart, I'm going out for a smoke.
"Fight Song" singer Rachel Platten continues her search for the Most Generic Song Title with "Stand By You." I guess "Hang in There" was just too revolutionary? I haven't actually heard the song, maybe it's hella deep, but... okay, lyric search time. "Even if we can't find heaven, I'll walk through hell with you, love, you're not alone, 'cause I'm gonna stand by you." That's actually... really goshdarn touching. Well, never mind. Still really boring title.
Drake and Future team up to see who can out-monotone mumble each other this time. I'm on the edge of my seat!
Luke Bryan ensures that every mainstream country song will have the word "tonight" in it til the end of time, with the pissy snoozefest "Home Alone Tonight." Someone wake up Karen Fairchild so she can go home and pretend this never happened.
Charlie Puth continues to exist, despite overwhelming evidence that he shouldn't.
Why weren't "Downtown" and "Wildest Dreams" bigger hits. I like those songs.
Why is that "New Americana" thing climbing up again DEAR GOD STOP IT BEFORE IT CONSUMES US ALL WITH ITS LEGAL MARIJUANA AND TEEN POETRY BULLSHIT (I have a possibly irrational hatred for this thing. It just GRATES).
Beautiful Drug is gonna tank hard. Sorry Zac, but the only thing worse than a sellout song is a really bad sellout song. Sung by a hypocrite. (I still dig you though. Mostly.)
...There are too many Biebers on this chart, I'm going out for a smoke.
New music Tuesday
Oh, it pains me to make a new post. I so wanted "Seriously, fuck onions. And Hitler" to be my last message from 2015. It's just... so fitting.
But we must carry on, and for a good cause. Music! I'll probably be doing this for a while on Tuesdays. It won't always be new new music, just new to me. I've got your days covered like days of the week underwear! or something.
Rolling Stone managed to spit forth another gem in their top 50 songs of 2015. This is the latest single from Kentucky garage-psychedelic-alt-rock band Cage the Elephant.
If you make a modern rock song that genuinely invokes the 70s, chances are I'll like it. And boy, do they nail that sound with "Trouble." The description for this song referenced "Crimson and Clover," which would legit be on my 10 favorite rock songs EVER list that I'll probably never make, proving that RS does still know what they're talking about when they actually try.
My brief overview of Cage the Elephant shows a cool discography. A lot of their singles are more uptempo and rollicking, some bluesy rock, really good stuff. I will slowly go through all their records within the next year, cause I like what I'm hearing. And as fun as the uptempo songs are, "Trouble" hits that sweet spot for me of a more mellow, yet still rocking, just plain cool song.
I'll just ignore the fact that this was #47, way below such musical masterpieces as "Trap Queen," "Fuck Up Some Commas," and "High By the Beach," and be happy it was put out there for discovery.
But we must carry on, and for a good cause. Music! I'll probably be doing this for a while on Tuesdays. It won't always be new new music, just new to me. I've got your days covered like days of the week underwear! or something.
Rolling Stone managed to spit forth another gem in their top 50 songs of 2015. This is the latest single from Kentucky garage-psychedelic-alt-rock band Cage the Elephant.
If you make a modern rock song that genuinely invokes the 70s, chances are I'll like it. And boy, do they nail that sound with "Trouble." The description for this song referenced "Crimson and Clover," which would legit be on my 10 favorite rock songs EVER list that I'll probably never make, proving that RS does still know what they're talking about when they actually try.
My brief overview of Cage the Elephant shows a cool discography. A lot of their singles are more uptempo and rollicking, some bluesy rock, really good stuff. I will slowly go through all their records within the next year, cause I like what I'm hearing. And as fun as the uptempo songs are, "Trouble" hits that sweet spot for me of a more mellow, yet still rocking, just plain cool song.
I'll just ignore the fact that this was #47, way below such musical masterpieces as "Trap Queen," "Fuck Up Some Commas," and "High By the Beach," and be happy it was put out there for discovery.
Monday, December 14, 2015
Monday musing
This holiday season, and heck, ima go crazy and say every season, let's make a pact to not be offended by anything except things that are actually offensive. Hitler, terrorists (actual ones, not imaginary ones), the KKK, these are appropriate targets for outrage. Chances are, your favorite movie or restaurant or music is not actually offensive, unless it's Hitler's Greatest Hits. Celebrating any holiday you want is not offensive, unless it's Hitlermas. Pretty sure that sandwich you're eating right now isn't offensive, unless... it has onions in it. Cause seriously, fuck onions. And Hitler. Okay, you get the point.
So let's all give each other a break. Cheers and peace.
So let's all give each other a break. Cheers and peace.
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Oh, Rolling Stone
When I was a kid, Rolling Stone was kinda my musical bible, or one of them anyway. I subscribed from when I was about 11 to my early 20s. (Yes, I was a very hipster 11 year old lol.) As I grew more into country and out of rock for a while, my interest waned. There were some incidents of poor journalism that turned me off. I haven't read RS, beyond a few random listy things, since I was probably 25.
But in my search for new music, I've been checking out their best songs/albums lists from the past few years. And how... odd they are. Plenty of non-mainstream stuff, but their mainstream choices? ...Quessssstionable. They picked "Biscuits" and right on for that, but they put it directly behind... "Bitch Better Have My Money???" I get they need to include mainstream, but there's a lot of good mainstream stuff. I mean, they picked "Can't Feel My Face" number one, and again right on. Cool song. "Hello" is number 6... but that whale-crying Bieber thing is #10?? "Trap Queen" and "Hotline Bling" at 2 and 3??? That ridiculous Future guy at 8?
My dislike for this mushmouthed trio is not because I'm not a rap fan. When I hear good rap it resonates. I get Kendrick Lamar. I get Nicki Minaj when she actually has a good verse (i.e., hardly ever). I get Dr. Dre, and Eminem, and a lot of the 80s/90s stuff I grew up with. But monotone word slurry and gargled autotune just don't do it for me, and I don't get the mass appeal. Vanilla Ice sounds better than this. At least you can hear what he's saying, and I'm pretty sure they're actual words.
Or, you know, you can keep saying "erry" like it's human words. I don't even know how to describe "Fetty Wap," other than "autotuned garling" or "scares the hell out of my cat." His voice(?) startles me. Like good God, that's bad! Oh yeah, they also picked "High By the Beach." Just in case you thought the only terrible mainstream music was rap, oh no! Here comes undead Lana del Rey to eat brains by the beach. I think I'd rather listen to a collection of Walking Dead zombie moans, they're more lifelike. And I liked a few tracks off Born to Die, before she slipped into a coma or whatever. Speaking of comas, "Good for You" was on there too. Just the worst mainstream dreck. And no Elle King. No Chris Stapleton. Seriously.
But that's nothing. The entire 2014 list is marred by a single song choice. Right there behind perennial favorite Beck lurks "No Flex Zone" by... sigh... Rae Sremmurd. One of the worst hit songs of recent memory, by possibly the very worst "artists." What are you thinking, Rolling Stone? Do you just randomly pick some mainstream crap out of a hat and hope no one will care, so you can go back to listening to Beck? Cause honestly, I wouldn't blame you. Or maybe they're confusing "biggest" with "best."
THAT SAID.
In the midst of all the worst noise 2015 had to offer, sat this little gem.
I'm not sure anything could fit into my current headspace better than this. I just found new music by some old bands I liked, this song inspires nostalgia rather than pander to it, and it opens with a piano that reminded me of MOTHERFREAKING LET IT BE. This is an anthem in the best sense, one that rings true emotionally and doesn't just rattle off vague inspirational phrases.
But in my search for new music, I've been checking out their best songs/albums lists from the past few years. And how... odd they are. Plenty of non-mainstream stuff, but their mainstream choices? ...Quessssstionable. They picked "Biscuits" and right on for that, but they put it directly behind... "Bitch Better Have My Money???" I get they need to include mainstream, but there's a lot of good mainstream stuff. I mean, they picked "Can't Feel My Face" number one, and again right on. Cool song. "Hello" is number 6... but that whale-crying Bieber thing is #10?? "Trap Queen" and "Hotline Bling" at 2 and 3??? That ridiculous Future guy at 8?
My dislike for this mushmouthed trio is not because I'm not a rap fan. When I hear good rap it resonates. I get Kendrick Lamar. I get Nicki Minaj when she actually has a good verse (i.e., hardly ever). I get Dr. Dre, and Eminem, and a lot of the 80s/90s stuff I grew up with. But monotone word slurry and gargled autotune just don't do it for me, and I don't get the mass appeal. Vanilla Ice sounds better than this. At least you can hear what he's saying, and I'm pretty sure they're actual words.
Or, you know, you can keep saying "erry" like it's human words. I don't even know how to describe "Fetty Wap," other than "autotuned garling" or "scares the hell out of my cat." His voice(?) startles me. Like good God, that's bad! Oh yeah, they also picked "High By the Beach." Just in case you thought the only terrible mainstream music was rap, oh no! Here comes undead Lana del Rey to eat brains by the beach. I think I'd rather listen to a collection of Walking Dead zombie moans, they're more lifelike. And I liked a few tracks off Born to Die, before she slipped into a coma or whatever. Speaking of comas, "Good for You" was on there too. Just the worst mainstream dreck. And no Elle King. No Chris Stapleton. Seriously.
But that's nothing. The entire 2014 list is marred by a single song choice. Right there behind perennial favorite Beck lurks "No Flex Zone" by... sigh... Rae Sremmurd. One of the worst hit songs of recent memory, by possibly the very worst "artists." What are you thinking, Rolling Stone? Do you just randomly pick some mainstream crap out of a hat and hope no one will care, so you can go back to listening to Beck? Cause honestly, I wouldn't blame you. Or maybe they're confusing "biggest" with "best."
THAT SAID.
In the midst of all the worst noise 2015 had to offer, sat this little gem.
I'm not sure anything could fit into my current headspace better than this. I just found new music by some old bands I liked, this song inspires nostalgia rather than pander to it, and it opens with a piano that reminded me of MOTHERFREAKING LET IT BE. This is an anthem in the best sense, one that rings true emotionally and doesn't just rattle off vague inspirational phrases.
Holy volcano girl!!
Veruca Salt released an album this year. The original Veruca Salt, Nina Gordon and Louise Post, released a full-length studio album. The first one since the mid-90s. And I'm really digging it so far.
They sound amazing. They haven't missed a beat in 20 years.
There's something life-affirming about a band you loved in your teen/young adulthood still sounding relevant 20 years later. Rock on, Veruca Salt. I'm listening.
I have the most awesome musical vibe going on right now. A mix of classic to 90s/2000s to modern rock and some modern country. Kacey Musgraves and Chris Stapleton fit surprisingly well on a mostly-rock playlist. It's like, we're gonna slow it down a bit, but not lose any of the energy.
Oh and Ash released an album in 2015 too. I have so much to listen to. My advice for getting into new music if you've been out of it for awhile: pick out stuff that grabs you right away, and mix it in with some old favorites. And look out for bands you loved 10-20 years ago releasing new material, because they might still be killing it.
I'm gonna keep my lists of best albums of 2015 and favorite rock songs of the 2010s as is, I think, because that's where I was at then and I'll always dig those choices. I'm just adding so much more, so I'll make addendums in the form of new posts.
EDIT: Motion City Soundtrack also released a new album of their smart, catchy moog synthesizer-driven alt-pop, if you like that kind of thing. Which I do.
EDIT 2: albums to listen to/finish listening to (not my whole list, just the top):
Elle King - if the album as a whole surpasses "Exes and Ohs," my head might not be able to contain the awesomeness.
Tim McGraw - the lead single is just okay, but I've heard the album is good and "okay" is actually a step up from his recent lead singles.
Cam - very intrigued by this one
Brandy Zdan - started, love
Randy Rogers & Wade Bowen
Ash
Striking Matches - started, digging it
Motion City Soundtrack - started, digging it
Best Coast - started, digging it
Turnpike Troubadors, and the rest of the Saving County Music picks I haven't heard yet
Eric Church - I haven't been as into him as I feel I could be? Maybe this album will change that. Heard good things.
I'm going to be SO BUSY this winter hurray!!!
They sound amazing. They haven't missed a beat in 20 years.
There's something life-affirming about a band you loved in your teen/young adulthood still sounding relevant 20 years later. Rock on, Veruca Salt. I'm listening.
I have the most awesome musical vibe going on right now. A mix of classic to 90s/2000s to modern rock and some modern country. Kacey Musgraves and Chris Stapleton fit surprisingly well on a mostly-rock playlist. It's like, we're gonna slow it down a bit, but not lose any of the energy.
Oh and Ash released an album in 2015 too. I have so much to listen to. My advice for getting into new music if you've been out of it for awhile: pick out stuff that grabs you right away, and mix it in with some old favorites. And look out for bands you loved 10-20 years ago releasing new material, because they might still be killing it.
I'm gonna keep my lists of best albums of 2015 and favorite rock songs of the 2010s as is, I think, because that's where I was at then and I'll always dig those choices. I'm just adding so much more, so I'll make addendums in the form of new posts.
EDIT: Motion City Soundtrack also released a new album of their smart, catchy moog synthesizer-driven alt-pop, if you like that kind of thing. Which I do.
EDIT 2: albums to listen to/finish listening to (not my whole list, just the top):
Elle King - if the album as a whole surpasses "Exes and Ohs," my head might not be able to contain the awesomeness.
Tim McGraw - the lead single is just okay, but I've heard the album is good and "okay" is actually a step up from his recent lead singles.
Cam - very intrigued by this one
Brandy Zdan - started, love
Randy Rogers & Wade Bowen
Ash
Striking Matches - started, digging it
Motion City Soundtrack - started, digging it
Best Coast - started, digging it
Turnpike Troubadors, and the rest of the Saving County Music picks I haven't heard yet
Eric Church - I haven't been as into him as I feel I could be? Maybe this album will change that. Heard good things.
I'm going to be SO BUSY this winter hurray!!!
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