A. Is he an undeserving icon whose death, albeit tragic, served to unjustly inflate his popularity beyond the level of his talent?
OR
B. Is he a genius whose effect on the musical landscape was only beginning to be realized, and whose death cut short a life that would have certainly changed the world.
Note: At this point I do not need to know why you feel the way you do about the former Nirvana frontman. For the moment, it is enough simply to choose option A. or B. However, if you feel you must vent about all things Cobain... please do.
I read a lot. And a lot of what I read has to do with music. Here are some recent stories that I've found fairly interesting:
Those Kookie Brits. I have to admit that I found [url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/en...]this story[/url] just a little bit startling. Don't get me wrong, I happen to think George Michael is a pretty UNDERrated guy, but the fact that he was recently named the MOST played artist on British radio over the LAST 20 YEARS just doesn't seem possible. Read the list. It's just plain nutty.
[url=http://www.billboard.com/bb/d...]Sigh.[/url] This is gonna be ugly. Honestly, I could write an entire rant right now about how tired I am of Kurt Cobain. I'm beginning to think that what they taught me in catholic school was wrong... the holy trinity is apparently made up of the Father the Son and Kurt Cobain. C'mon people. Get over it.
Now... [url=http://www.undercover.com.au/...]this[/url] is good stuff. I remember seeing [url=http://www.herald.co.uk/local...]Live Aid[/url] on television when it was originally broadcast. It's hard to believe, but that was nearly 20 years ago. (Feel old??). Pretty soon there were benefit concerts popping up all over the place for a variety of causes. I think people got burned out on the concept, and soon they disappeared. But now it's time to bring them back.... and I can hardly think of a better cause than HIV/AIDS. Kudos to the bands who are taking part.
First of all, let me just say that it was painfully obvious that many of you didn't bother to read the entirety of my last post. Shame on you. Shame! You can hardly imagine how shocked I was to find that you were not rivited to my ever word. ;-) (In the future, I'll see what I can do to liven things up around here). In all seriousness, for those of you who didn't quite make it down to the bottom, let me recap: In reference to the Degas painting I boldly asked you to share song lyrics that were intimate and deeply personal - lyrics that were defining and/or seemed to be written directly about you... which could explain why so few of you decided to answer the call. A big thanks to the few of you who did, however, respond to that charge. Of course, I'd still welcome posts of that nature, so feel free to keep sharing. However, as promised, today I am going to share with you some of mine.
Now... normally, I don't like to post lyrics on here. They take up a lot of space, and seem to beg people to scroll forward to the "good stuff" - or at least to the bottom. However, in this case, I will make an exception. Since, after all, I am using these lyrics as a biography or sorts, I don't really see where I have a lot of choice but to post at lease SOME of them.
So here goes... Me: The Musical. :)
The first song I ever recall hearing as a child was Donovan's [b][u]Jennifer Juniper[/u].[/b] My mom, who played guitar and sang in a folk band in Greenwhich Village as a teenager/adult would sing it to me as I went to sleep. To this day, it's one of my favorite songs.... and in ways I probably don't even realize, it set the stage for what would become my lifelong love/obsession with music:
[i]"Jennifer Juniper lives upon the hill, Jennifer Juniper, sitting very still. Is she sleeping ? I don't think so. Is she breathing ? Yes, very low. Whatcha doing, Jennifer, my love ? Jennifer Juniper, rides a dappled mare, Jennifer Juniper, lilacs in her hair. Is she dreaming ? Yes, I think so. Is she pretty ? Yes, ever so. Whatcha doing, Jennifer, my love ? I'm thinking of what it would be like if she loved me. You know just lately this happy song it came along And I like to somehow try and tell you. Jennifer Juniper, hair of golden flax. Jennifer Juniper longs for what she lacks. Do you like her ? Yes, I do, Sir. Would you love her ? Yes, I would, Sir. Whatcha doing Jennifer, my love ? Jennifer Juniper, Jennifer Juniper, Jennifer Juniper. Jennifer Juniper vit sur la colline, Jennifer Juniper assise très tranquille. Dort-elle ? Je ne crois pas. Respire-t-elle ? Oui, mais tout bas. Qu'est-ce que tu fais, Jenny mon amour ? Jennifer Juniper, Jennifer Juniper, Jennifer Juniper"[/i]
Later as a teenager, I began to shed the skin of my mother's musical influence and in search of music that spoke directly to me. Early on, this came in the form of REM. I can still remember my mom, who loved music more than life, telling me to "turn that shit off" whenever I played either of the following:
[u][b]Superman (The Clique):[/b][/u]
[i]"(Godzilla doll opens in Japanese with "This is a special news report. Godzilla has been sighted in Tokyo Bay. The attack on it by the Self-Defense Force has been useless. He is heading towards the city. AAAAAGGGGHHHH!!!!!")
I am I am I am Superman and I know what's happening I am I am I am Superman and I can do anything
You don't really love that guy you make it with now do you I know you don't love that guy cause I can see right through you
If you go a million miles away I'll track you down girl Trust me when I say I know the pathway to your heart."[/i]
and
[b][u]King of Birds[/u][/b]
[i]"A thumbnail sketch, a jeweler's stone A mean idea to call my own Old man don't lay so still you're not yet young There's time to teach, point to point, Point observation, children carry reservations Standing on the shoulders of giants leaves me cold, leaves me cold. A mean idea to call my own, a hundred million birds fly
Singer sing me a given, singer sing me a song Standing on the shoulders of giants everybody's looking on (Old man don't lay so still you're not yet young, there's time to teach, point to point, point observation, children carry reservations). Standing on the shoulders of giants leaves me cold A mean idea to call my own, a hundred million birds fly away, away.
I am king of all I see, my kingdom for a voice Old man don't lay so still, you're not yet young There's time to teach, point to point Point observation, children carry reservations Standing on the shoulders of giants leaves me cold A mean idea to call my own, a hundred million birds fly away
Everybody hit the ground. Everybody hit the ground."[/i]
Of course, no teenage experience would be complete without a brokenheart. When my time came, The Cure helped me through it with:
[b][u]Love Song[/u][/b]
"[i]Whenever I’m alone with you you make me feel Like I am home again whenever I’m alone with You you make me feel like I am whole again Whenever I’m alone with you you make me feel Like I am young again whenever I’m alone with You you make me feel like I am fun again
However far away I will always love you however Long I stay I will always love you whatever Words I say I will always love you I will always Love you
Whenever I’m alone with you you make me feel Like I am free again whenever I’m alone with You you make me feel like I am clean again
However far away I will always love you however Long I stay I will always love you whatever Words I say I will always love you I will always Love you"[/i]
Later, as the world of my youth started to fall away and I was faced with the choices of what to do with my life, Tracy Chapman's [u][b]Fast Car [/b][/u]seemed to be written directly for me as I struggled with what I had to do in order to change the course that had been (or at least felt) predetermined for my life to take:
[i]"You got a fast car I want a ticket to anywhere Maybe we make a deal Maybe together we can get somewhere
Anyplace is better Starting from zero got nothing to lose Maybe we'll make something But me myself I got nothing to prove
You got a fast car And I got a plan to get us out of here I been working at the convenience store Managed to save just a little bit of money We won't have to drive too far Just 'cross the border and into the city You and I can both get jobs And finally see what it means to be living
You see my old man's got a problem He live with the bottle that's the way it is He says his body's too old for working I say his body's too young to look like his My mama went off and left him She wanted more from life than he could give I said somebody's got to take care of him So I quit school and that's what I did
You got a fast car But is it fast enough so we can fly away We gotta make a decision We leave tonight or live and die this way
I remember we were driving driving in your car The speed so fast I felt like I was drunk City lights lay out before us And your arm felt nice wrapped 'round my shoulder And I had a feeling that I belonged And I had feeling I could be someone, be someone, be someone
You got a fast car And we go cruising to entertain ourselves You still ain't got a job And I work in a market as a checkout girl I know things will get better You'll find work and I'll get promoted We'll move out of the shelter Buy a big house and live in the suburbs
You got a fast car And I got a job that pays all our bills You stay out drinking late at the bar See more of your friends than you do of your kids I'd always hoped for better Thought maybe together you and me would find it I got no plans I ain't going nowhere So take your fast car and keep on driving
You got a fast car But is it fast enough so you can fly away You gotta make a decision You leave tonight or live and die this way."[/i]
As real as the heartbreaks of adolescence feel, (and I believe really are), adult relationships often prove more complicated. Later struggles brought these lyrics very close to my heart.
[u][b]Break Your Heart[/b][/u] The Barenaked Ladies
[i]"The bravest thing I've ever done Was to run away and hide But not this time, not this time And the weakest thing I've ever done Was to stay right by your side Just like this time, and every time I couldn't tell you I was happy when you were gone So I lied and said that I missed you when we were apart I couldn't tell you, so I had to lead you on But I didn't mean to break your heart
And if I always seem distracted Like my minds somewhere else That's because it's true, yes it's true it's this stupid pride that makes me feel Like I have to follow through Even half-assedly, loving you Why must I always speak in terms of cowardice? When I guess I should have just come out and told you right from the start Why must I always tell you all I want is this? I guess 'cause I didn't want to break your heart
And you said What'd you think that I was gonna do, Curl up and die just because of you? I'm not that weak, you know What'd you think that I was gonna do, Try to make you love me as much as I love you? How could you be so low? You arrogant man, What do you think that I am? My heart will be fine Just stop wasting my time
And now I know that you will be okay, and that I got what I want and that's rid of you Good bye And it's not cause I'll be missing you That makes me fall apart It's just that I didn't mean to break No I didn't mean to break No I didn't mean to break Your heart "[/i]
And then of course, there are those rare and fleeting moments in life when all the stars in the sky seem aligned and things feel as though they couldn't possibly be more perfect. During this time in my life, The Softies provided an excellent soundtrack (no pun intended):
[u][b]Excellent[/b][/u]
"[i]you say that nothing is better than this I feel the same and let you know with each kiss that I love you this thing is bigger than you or me from here to heaven or across any sea it's true
oh sweetie everything's excellent oh sweetie everything's fine
I know I've said it already before but every time means even more I swear it's true I'll never go back to how I was I don't have to now because I have you
oh sweetie everything's excellent oh sweetie everything's fine
how did I get so lucky or when will someone wake me from this dream
it's much too good to be real I can't belive the way I feel but it's true
oh sweetie everything's excellent oh sweetie everything's fine everything's fine[/i]"
And finally, more recently, when my faith in things personally, professionally, spiritually and otherwise has been shaken greatly, the following lyrics speak to me in ways that are difficult to explain:
[u][b]I Want To Believe[/b][/u] Lori Carson
[i]" want to believe you. I want to believe in this. When everything is wrong will you come through? I want to believe you. I want to believe you. I want to believe in this. When everything is wrong will you come through? will you come through? will you come through? When everything is wrong? I want to believe you. I want to believe in this. When everything is wrong will you come through? I want to believe you. I want to believe you. When everything is wrong will you come through? Will you come through? Will you come through? Will you come through?"[/i]
[u][b]They[/b][/u] Jem
[i]"Who made up all the rules We follow them like fools Believe them to be true Don’t care to think them through
And I’m sorry so sorry I’m sorry it’s like this I’m sorry so sorry I’m sorry we do this
And it’s ironic too Coz what we tend to do Is act on what they say And then it is that way
And I’m sorry so sorry I’m sorry it’s like this I’m sorry so sorry I’m sorry we do this
Who are they And where are they And how can they possibly know all this Who are they And where are they And how can they possibly know all this
Do you see what I see Why do we live like this Is it because it’s true that ignorance is bliss
Who are they And where are they And how do they know all this And I’m sorry so sorry I’m sorry it’s like this
Do you see what I see Why do we live like this Is it because it’s true that ignorance is bliss
And who are they And where are they And how can they know all this And I’m sorry so sorry I’m sorry we do this"[/i]
Ok... first of all, to those of you who made it all the way to the bottom of this, I should first apologize. This is far too long. But believe it or not, I cut several songs before settling on these. Believe me, posting lyrics of this nature is not going to be a habit. Not only is it probably fairly boring for the reader... but b/c these songs are so personal, it's also pretty tough to be brave enough to hit "publish." On the other hand, I have to admit that using lyrics in an autobiographical sense as I have done here has also been interestingly cathartic. Again, I'm sorry for the length. Thanks for indulging me. And if any of you are brave enough to let the rest of us take a peak into the person you sometimes find defined in the music you listen to... well, feel free to share.
Last week I had the opportunity to spend some time at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. While there, I ran across the following painting by Edgar Degas. (For those of you who are unfamiliar with Degas, he is most often associated with images of dancers in a variety of mediums including oils, pastels and even sculpture -- originally in wax, but later cast in bronze). This one struck me not only because of its seeming departure for the artist, but also because of the intimacy that it captures.
=http://img23.photobucket.com/...
Of course, the image here does not do justice to the original... but I absolutely love the way Degas has captured this quiet, intimate moment between a man and a woman. In the original, much of the room is so dark, that it is difficult to pick out the details of the furniture, etc. The light from the table lamp illuminates primarily the figure of the woman, who seems to be in a state of dress, or undress. The man at the door, like us, is but a silent observer.
Since I got back, this image has stuck with me. Part of it must be because of the voyueristic nature of the painting, but I think another part of it is because it captures something so simple and yet so private and guarded as well. Of course, (and this is the point where some of you will just shake your heads) it reminded me of the magic that happens when certain songs do the same thing. You know that feeling... when you hear a song and it seems as though it was written about you and for you... as though the artist took a piece of your life and mapped it out in words. These are the songs that stab you in the gut and twist the knife in the most deliciously personal way. We all lay claim to certain songs that seem to capture who we are.... our interiors, if you will.
It might be a lot to ask that you share some of yours... because in doing so, you, by default, expose a bit of yourself. But I'll show you mine, if you show me yours.
When I mention to people that I listen to [url=www.npr.org]NPR[/url] , their next remark usually has something to do with the arrival of my next social security check. (Apparently, everyone I know is a smartass). However, I have found that NPR is actually a great place to learn about new music. Not only do they feature relatively obscure bands as the transitional pieces between news programs such as [url=http://www.npr.org/programs/m...]Morning Edition [/url] and [url=http://www.npr.org/programs/a...]All Things Considered[/url] , but they also tend to provide air time to new and unknown artists in the form of in depth interviews and live impromptu performances ~ something that mainstream/top 40 format FM radio NEVER does. ([url=http://freshair.npr.org/]Fresh Air[/url] in particular is a good spot for this type of reporting). However, what really makes NPR a great resource for those of us who hunger for new music is their [url=http://www.npr.org/programs/a...]All Songs Considered [/url] website (and corresponding CDs). This page, coupled with the archives and open mic pages, provides a WEALTH of information about many bands that would otherwise go unnoticed by most of America. Here you can read reviews, listen to tracks/interviews and begin your foray into the world of independent music. This is the music that you will never hear on mainstream radio because it is not owned by some corporate conglomerate.
Let me explain...
Over 1,200 radio stations and nearly 40 television stations, nationwide are owned by Clear Channel Entertainment. They also own over 200 global stations as well as over 200 music venues in the US alone. In fact, Clear Channel owns a majority of the stations in 248 of the top 250 radio markets, controlling 60% of all rock programming. They outright own the touring rights of numerous top 40 musicians as well as the network which airs AM talk radio giants such as Rush Limbaugh and Dr. Laura. And as if that wasn't enough, they also own the Fox Sports Radio Network. Are you beginning to see a conflict of interest here? With their fingers in so many pieces of the musical pie, Clear Channel runs their empire in a purely cyclical (and undeniably profitable) manner... requiring disk jockeys at their stations to rotate songs by artists they promote and who play at their venues more frequently than others, etc. Thus, you hear the music they want you to hear... and, if all goes according to plan, buy the music they want you to buy.
Of course, Clear Channel is only one example. There are other corporate giants who control the airways... but essentially, the bottom line is that no matter what station you turn to, the music you hear is filtered through systems motivated by economics and not based on musical innovation or even on a reflection of what most people *say* they want to hear.
NPR provides a great alternative to corporate radio. Even if [url=http://www.npr.org/about/peop...]Bob Edwards[/url] isn't your cup of tea, (and I simply can't imagine why he wouldn't be), at least NPR provides its listeners with an opportunity to discover and even support music that exists without the aid (or burden) of big corporate monies.
I have a [url=http://shadowmusic.tblog]friend[/url] who loves to classify, organize and rate music. He has such a gift for rating songs by genre, instrumentation, vocals and even position within his own personal top 1-million song list. For me... this type of thing can prove quite difficult. My response to music tends to be fairly emotional. My top ten songs change with my mood and usually have little/nothing to do with what is popular at the moment. However, for awhile now, I've been thinking of doing a weekly (or biweekly or at minimum somewhat regular) chart on here ~ in which we can post our current top songs. It would be like the Billboard Top 100 only without the RIAA breathing down our necks. :) Then I saw that a certain [url=http://blondebondgirl.tblog.c...]blonde blogger[/url] had done something similar, so I figured, I'd best get in on the action. But before I dive in....
Here's a look at Billboard's current top 9. (Right now, some of you may be asking, "why the top 9, juniperflux, as opposed to say, the top 10??" This like so many other questions in life, however, is destined to remain unanswered). It shouldn't come as much of a surprise that the vast majority of these songs fall into the rap or hip+hop genres. To be perfectly honest, I have to admit that I am not much of a fan of either type of music. Although this is probably a subject for another time, I tend to have a bit of a problem with the violence and misogyny that seems to infect much of the lyrical content of both genres. Again... that's a topic for another time and place. In the meantime, I have to laugh when I look at this chart recalling music critics of the late 1980s and early 90s who proclaimed that rap was nothing more than a musical trend that would fade quickly and die without leaving so much as a fingerprint on the musical landscape... I can't help but wonder how those folks take their crow. Medium well??
So... here we go.
[u][b]The Juniperflux Top 9 [/u] 4-26-2004[/b]
9. Low: Half Life 8. Rufus Wainwright: Beauty Mark 7. The Cranberries: Electric Blue 6. The Von Trapps: Roller Coaster 5. Uncle Tupelo: Left In The Dark 4. Ann McCue: Crazy, Beautiful Child 3. Azure Ray: How Will You Survive? 2. Jem: They
~ drum roll please ~
1. Azure Ray: Safe and Sound
Ok... so now it's your turn. Let's hear it folks. Your top 9 songs at the moment. They can be current hits, oldies but goodies, completely obscure tracks and/or all of the above. Just whatever you're completely gaga over right now. If you can't think of 9... then we'll let you get by with as many as you can think of.
I'm looking forward to seeing what people are listening to.
Is it just me or does it seem as though a lot of bands/artists from the 70's and 80's are once again hitting the comeback trail? This is a double-edged sword in my book. Certainly there are several bands that I would give my right arm to see live [i]just one more time. [/i] And the list of bands who I would love to see release just one additional CD is indeed long as well. However, the fact is that, in my experience, these reunions never live up to the expectations set forth by fans and/or critics. As evidence of this trend towards retro reunions here are some much hyped comebacks that you'll be sure to want to pencil in on your calendars:
Yes... that's right, former [url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/en...]Abba blonde bomshell[/url] Agnetha Faltskog (say that three times fast) is clawing her way out of obscurity and back into the limelight with her first release in 17 years.
One of indie-music's most influential bands, [url=http://www.nme.com/news/10807...]The Pixies[/url] are back together for a series of albums and a comeback tour. The press surrounding both is massive.
Former Smith's frontman [url=http://www.nme.com/news/10827...]Morrissey[/url] has begun a series of comeback shows and is working on a new album -- although I don't think a release date has been issued yet. However, all you carnivores out there will have to leave your[url=http://www.nme.com/news/10795...] sides of beef [/url] at the door, as Morrissey has apparently decided to ban the sale of meat at all venues at which he will appear.
[url=http://www.billboard.com/bb/d...]Simon and Garfunkle[/url] are apparently hitting the road together for 15 shows that are sure to sell out in record time. However, I wouldn't get too excited. You won't be able to afford the tickets.
After a rather sour (har!) split in 1997, it looks like [url=http://www.nme.com/news/10822...]The Lemonheads[/url] may be getting back together for a series of concert dates in the near future.
And in a comeback of a different color, it looks like George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley are planning to reunite in order to produce (I swear I am not making this up) [url=http://www.nme.com/news/10795...]"WHAM ~ The Musical."[/url] Did these boys learn nothing from [url=http://www.tabootheshow.com/]Boy George??[/url] All I can do is shake my head.
Personally, I blame VH-1 for all of this. Their new show [url=http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/...]"Bands Reunited"[/url] is giving some bands the wrong impression that, even after many, many years away from the music scene, they can relive their former success. Don't get me wrong... I love watching these bands come together to laugh, cry and lament their former hairdo's, but the idea that bands like A Flock of Seagulls, The Edge or Frankie Goes to Hollywood can get back together and (re)conquer the world is just plain silly.
I think this speaks to the fact that there is an element that goes along with musical success that few people speak of, that element being timing. It takes more than just a talented group of musicians getting together and making good music. Timing is a key factor in a band/artist making it big. Not only must the players involved possess the ability to create world ready music, but the world must in fact be ready to embrace their creations. Would the Beatles have been as successful if they'd been born just a decade or two earlier? It's hard to say. But I think it's pretty clear that while talent may be crucial for longevity, timing is an essential ingredient in the recipe for initial success.
Anyhow, it looks like quite a few bands are going to tempt fate in search of another 15 minutes of fame. I wish them all the best of luck. And I'll keep my eyes peeled for Guns and Roses ~ The Musical! :)
I love to travel. I'm not a huge fan of getting there by plane... but there's few feelings in the world that can top packing up the car and hitting the road. And of course, no road trip would be complete without music. In response to my last post in which I asked people to share their favorite roadtrip worthy songs, Jenxer wrote "for some reason, being in the car gives me a reason to listen to my music really really loud." I couldn't agree more. In the car, I want to be completely surrounded by the music, such that it totally drowns out every sound of the car, the traffic, etc. Of course, some songs lend themselves better to that than others. Here are some of my favorite traveling music:
[url=http://www.cranberries.com/]The Cranberries[/url]: Pretty, When You're Gone, Electric Blue, Shattered, Saving Grace
[url=siouxsie and the banshees]Siouxsie and the Banshees:[/url] Peek-a-boo!
Although... this time around, I have to admit that I listened almost exclusively to my new obsession, a band called [url=http://www.azureraymusic.com/...]Azure Ray. [/url] I plan on reviewing their latest CD for LT, but in the meantime, [url=http://www.pitchforkmedia.com...]here is a review [/url] from Pitchfork about their debut that seems right on the money to me. Also, the latest issue of [url=http://www.pastemagazine.com/...]PASTE[/url] includes a sampler with an Azure Ray track as well. (Although I think I would have picked a different track, myself). Perfectly lovely stuff this is. Go check it out...
I once heard a girl call into a radio station to request a song. She said she and a couple of girl friends had just returned from a cross country road trip in a car that suffered from, among other things, a broken radio. This group of wandering gal-pals did have, however, a working cassette player. Unfortunately, they only had one cassette with them: a cassette single of the B-52's "Roam." Now, personally, if faced with a similar situation, I'd have killed everyone in the car before hitting the city limits, but apparently these young ladies loved the song and it soon became the soundtrack to their road trip.
Over the next week, I will be on a road trip of my own leaving my homestate in search of mischief in the greater Washington DC/Philadelphia areas. So... I'm thinking that now is a good time to create a list of excellent traveling music. That is ~ songs/CDs that are incredibly well-suited to playing loud as your car racks up the miles along the open road. You know the ones... these are songs that you can hardly listen to without the top (or windows) down, wind through whipping through your hair and nothing but the entire world at your feet.
So... make me a list while I'm gone folks. Topic: The perfect roadtrip soundtrack.
I have to admit that I was little bit surprised (disappointed) by some of the responses I received to this particular question. The vast majority of people who replied to the question of "most overrated band/artist" provided names of current plastic pop-princesses: Britney, Christina, Mariah, Jessica, Avril, etc ~ Not that these she-boppers aren't overrated, they certainly are, but mostly when I read comments like "Britney Spears is overrated" I just want to say, "well... duh?" As commenter [url=http://cmaze.tblog.com]cmaze[/url] put it "lets face it, most if not all ‘pop artists’ are overrated... image means business, talent is a nice footnote. I hate it." Ya... me too. But hype is one of pop-music's defining characteristics, and to be a pop-star means that, to a certain extent, being overrated is part of the game. Some comments I received though really hit the nail on the head. These comments took bands that are praised for the legitimacy (even genius) of their music, and popped a gaping hole in their collective bubble. I love it. Here are what some of you had to say:
Newbie wrote: "Hasn't anyone noticed that Maynard of a Perfect Circle is a complete rip off of Eddie Vedder? And he's so overly touted as a rock God in Seattle that it makes me want to puke. What a joke! When I first heard a Perfect Circle a number of years ago, I thought it was Pearl Jam. And nothing's changed. Why? Why? It's nuts, and I would say for sure, with one eye-brow raised in question, that a Perfect Circle is definitely overrated."
Jenxer wrote: "I don't like Kenny G, nor do I think he deserves the respect he received. After a week, my uncle could play any Kenny G tune on his sax. Now I am not sure if Kenny G wrote those tunes, but he's done a good job of promoting his "sound." I have to give him credit for that. But his sound is just plain yucky. It's washed out. Kenny G has washed out the sax. It's got a lifeless meaningless sound without jazz, without blues, without passion. I love the sax, but don't like what Kenny G's done at all. Another overrated artist."
Dessie wrote: "Remember the band 'No Doubt'? (Author's note: Even though I respect your overall coment here, I have to laugh because No Doubt broke up like yesterday ~ so asking if we remember them, is just kind of funny). I always thought they were pretty cool. But after hearing "Gwen" Sing on stage... oh my god! She can't hold a note!"
[url=http://brogonzo.tblog.com]Brogonzo[/url] wrote: "Linkin Park is an unholy combination of the worst parts of the Backstreet Boys and Limp Bizkit. Does anyone else remember a band that came out 20 years ago called the Red Hot Chili Peppers? Yeah, they pioneered that ground back then, and moved on... just like the rest of these hacks should do... Then we've got the guys cashing in on the Pearl Jam/Soundgarden sound -- Nickelback, Creed, Staind, etc. -- and good old Godsmack, which is like Metallica before they learned how to sing or play guitar or write songs. There are so many no-talent ass clowns out there (a phrase which was originally used to describe Michael Bolton) that it's actually hard to find someone who can actually produce good music. You've really got to look hard."
Wow! Some of you are soooo opinionated. And I love it! :) I may not always agree with your assessments, but I really dig seeing people show a passion for music. Even if it's music they hate, in this case.
So... onto my list: (Note: these are in no certain order).
Kid Rock: I think I have figured out the key to Kid Rock's success. Kid Rock provides hope to skinny white boys living in the ghetto/trailer park who dream of one day making it big without having to actually earn an education or learn a skill. As far as I'm concerned, he's a talentless boob with a fir coat.
Barbra Streisand: Babs has got a following that just baffles me. While it's undeniable that she was able to belt out a few classic songs about 30 years ago, and she seems to have the chops to make it as an actor, the fact is that if you've heard one Streisand song, you've pretty much heard them all. She's notoriously difficult to work with, her voice is not really all that different from many of her contemporaries, and the hype surrounding her performances indicates that seeing her live is somewhat of a religious experience. Well... call me a pagan, she's overrated. (PS: Insert Bette Midler's name above. Repeat. Rinse).
Nirvana Ok... I know I am going to catch hell for this one, but the idol worship of Kurt Cobain has just gone too far. Yes, Nevermind was a ground-breaking album. Yes, Nirvana helped to usher in a new era in music. However, let's not forget a couple of things here. #1 The grunge movement occurred during a period in musical history in which very little else could happen. Popular music of the mid 80's had become plastic, one dimensional and sugar coated ~ making a swinging of the musical pendulum inevitable. Newton was right, folks: "for every action, there is an equal but opposite reaction." Grunge was a fairly natural reaction to what was happening in music at the time. However, even if we forget that #2 Nirvana may have been one of the first commercially successful examples of the form, but they were certainly not the pioneers of grunge music itself. Seattle bands like the Melvins and Mudhoney are much more deserving of that title. And finally #3 Like Cobain himself, the grunge movement faded almost as quickly as it had begun. And yes, I know... I know... there are still some grunge die hards out there creating music, but grunge itself, like every other musical movement does eventually, has run its course and those bands that thrived in it have either evolved into the next phase of their musical lives, or have been laid to rest.
Alanis Morissette So much angst... so little time. I once read a reviewer who said of Morissette, "she's the quintessential female artist of our time. 100 years from now, historians will look back at the work of Alanis Morissette and know what it meant to be a woman of this era." God I hope not. Again, I won't deny that Morissette is in possession of some talent, but she's a one trick pony, and I've grown weary of her shtick.
The Jacksons I'm not going to even bother doing a separate catagory for Janet, Michael, LaToya et al. (It's getting harder and harder to tell them all apart these days anyway). I see The Jacksons as being equivalent to a science experiment done on Hanson, gone terribly, terribly wrong. As a kid-based pop band in the 70's they were fairly benign. However, now the combination of mediocre music and very public, personal guffaws make them more like a horrific multi-car pile-up on the side of the highway: None of us wants to look, but we simply can't turn away. Not unlike their matching set of cheekbone implants, it's pretty tough to distinguish Michael's latest album from Janet's. And their recent public publicity stunts are just further evidence of the desperation envoked when there's no talent to fall back on and your star is fading... fast.
Metallica Someone should slap these guys. Hard. Not only are they WAY to whiney to be considered a legitimate metal band, but their rabid fans run around worshiping Lars and the rest of the gang as though they actually #1 somehow defined the metal genre or #2 produced any original music in the last 20 years of their lackluster career. Listen when a band feels it necessary to sue another band over the use of guitar chords E and F there's a problem. If guitar chords E and F are the only thing that Metallica can claim as being unique to their music, overrated doesn't even to begin to describe the generic and pathetic state of their catalogue. Blech. (I'll let you know when Lars Urlich sends me a summons). UPDATE: Ooops! It has come to my attention that this whole lawsuit over chords was actually a hoax. (Check out wickedlame's comments for a link on the subject). Apparently, I need to fire my research department. However, let me just say that this new revelation does nothing to change my opinion of this highly overrated band.
Oasis Whenever I hear a journalist compare a band to The Beatles, I scoff. Not only are such comparisons mute, but they usually mean the kiss of death for the band. However, when the band compares ITSELF to The Beatles, well... that's a whole different story. Besides the fact that both Oasis and The Beatles are British, the similarities are pretty tough to find. Yes, What's the Story Morning Gory was a good album, but it hardly defined a generation, set the world upside down or set a blaze a new era in music. 30 years from now bands will STILL be citing The Beatles as an influence on their music, meanwhile Noel and Liam Gallagher will be nothing more than a musical footnote ~ if they’re lucky.
P-Diddy/Puff Daddy Who cares?? Listen, I will admit that I'm probably not overally qualified to speak volumes about artists in the hip-hop/rap genre, but even I know that Sean "Puffy" Combs is about 90% Puff and 10% Substance. A shrewd business man? Absolutely. A talented rapper? Not hardly. Puffy needs to stay in the boardroom and off the stage.
And speaking of which...
J-Lo/Jennifer Lopez Her ass ain't *that* good, folks. I'm not certain there is an artist alive that could live up the hype generated by the J-lo publicity juggernaut, but Jennifer Lopez doesn't even come close. She's a mediocre actress and an even less talented singer who has managed to create a wave of publicity that has carried her to the top. Sadly... from way up there, there's only one way to go, and I doubt J-lo has what it takes to hang on.
Blink 182 Pop-punk. *sigh* Joey Ramone is rolling over in his grave ~ and then flipping Blink 182 off. Ok... we get it, you're naked (see Red Hot Chili Peppers). Actually, these boys possess some talent, but let's call it like it is. This band is nothing more than a slightly more tattooed version of The Back Street Boys.
The Grateful Dead This may very well be the MOST overrated band of all time. Although, to be honest, I have to give them some credit. They’ve basically made a long and illustrious career out of one 12-minute song. (However, I’m sure that once you’re as stoned as the average dead-head, just about anything sounds ground breaking). Admittedly, though, I think The Dead is a capable band. Lyrically, they’re a bit vacant, but musically they can hold their own. Nevertheless, this list is not necessarily about being talented. It’s about living up to your hype, and The Grateful Dead certainly do not. Face it, we could all retire on our own private islands on the royalties off those dead-head dancing bear bumper stickers alone, and I hardly think they are band worthy of that much exposure.
Ok... so that's my two cents worth. I'm sure I'll catch some flack over some of this. But that's ok... bring it on, baby.
Gosh... I would love to be able to say that I miss the days when "musicians" actually played an instrument or, at the very minimum, could get through a complete chorus without the aid of a synthesized vocal reproduction to help them lengthen the note or place it electronically on key. However, the truth is that throughout history there have been many "artists" who managed to make it to the top riding an [i][b]image[/b][/i] driven wave, rather than one based on talent. Yes... overrated bands/solo acts have been around forever. In fact, it was [url=http://www.nme.com/news/10813...]this article [/url] about "Oasis [u]legend[/u]" (um... legend?) Noel Gallagher that got me thinking about bands whose musical talent is questionable,whose lyrics are laughable but whose abs are (for the most part) impeccable. I know I could list several (hundred) but as always, I'd like you to go first.
So... who do you think are the most overrated bands/artists of the past/present? There are no real rules for this one, other than just tell me the band/solo act and give me a little taste of why you find their fame to be undeserved. Keep in mind that these are not simply a group of talentless boobs that you've been waiting your whole life to discredit on the internet. (Although believe me, I'm thrilled to provide the forum for such angst). No.. these are the acts that made you cock one eyebrow in an expression that can only be described as "um... huh?" as the rest of the world chanted their name(s) in unison.
It was 75 degrees this weekend, and the rain didn't start until I was already half way home. The cool spring breezes drifted off the river and found their way through the front door as I perused the stacks at my [url=http://www.crystalkirk.com/CD...]favorite indie music store in the entire world. [/url] I could spend hours in that place... and today I did. [url=http://www.indyweek.com/durha...]This[/url] is what buying music should be like: flipping through stacks and stacks of new and used music... none of which was ordered for the shop as a result of radio airplay or number of weeks on the billboard top 40. Rather, these are places for discovery.
I discovered this particular little shop about a million years ago. It was a favorite haunt back in [url=http://www.uncw.edu/]college[/url] ... and these days, I never make a trip to the beach without stopping by in search of some new treasure.
Today's treasure?
Well... last week, in his typically quiet way, (smacking of deja vu), Jonathan led me to [url=http://www.azureraymusic.com/...]Azure Ray. [/url]A day or so later, I stumbled across a review of their latest release in [url=http://www.pastemagazine.com/...]PASTE[/url] magazine. So, when my fingers found [url=http://www.azureraymusic.com/...]Hold On Love [/url] and [url=http://www.azureraymusic.com/...]their self titled debut[/url] among the snaking lines of musical dominos, I smiled long and snapped them up. And treasures they are. Perfectly lovely stuff.
But I'm left with questions...
The last CD I purchased at Borders cost me $18.00. Today, I purchased both CDs ~ brand spanking new each, wrapped up tight in their shiney plastic blankets... for less than the cost of one at Borders. And yet, the store makes money and manages to stay in business. Hmmmmm.... How can this be? (All I can do is shake my head).
I think it just goes to show that supporting independently owned stores like my favorite hole in the wall, CD Alley, just makes good sense. Not only do they stock an inventory of music that you just won't find anywhere else, but there's something comforting about giving money to someone other than the corporate giants for a change.
So... I've shown you mine. Now you show me yours. How'z about we compile a list of the best places to buy music. And let's limit our list to independent shops like CD Alley: small, privately owned and lacking the new car smell of big record retail operations. I'd love to hear why you love these places, but if nothing else just give me the name of the shop and the city where they are located. In the end, hopefully, we'll have a pretty cool shopping list.
When I first started this blog, I did a post about artists who died before their time, but whose music lives on. One of the artists on that list was Nick Drake. I thought about him again today because of [url=http://www.nme.com/news/10810...]an article [/url] I just happened to run across about a new radio documentary on Drake's life that will air on May 22nd and is to be narrated by Brad Pitt.
Even though Drake was almost completely unknown when he died of an ('accidental') overdose at the age of 26, recently his music is enjoying more success, (albeit still limited), than it did during his lifetime. One of Drake's signature songs, [url=http://www.algonet.se/~iguana/DRAKE/NDpink.html#PINK]"Pink Moon," [/url] was featured in a VW commercial in 2001 and is credited by many as having resurrected his music, which had been dormant for nearly 30 years. A couple of years later, another Drake tune, [url=http://www.algonet.se/~iguana/DRAKE/NDway.html#NORTHERN]"Northern Sky" [/url] was featured on the Serendipity soundtrack.
However, even before the likes of Brad Pitt came along and legitimized Drake for a mainstream audience, his music has remained somewhat of an underground and cult favorite. Of course, much of this is because his music is just so good, but I think there is also another aspect to consider. Most [url=http://www.dirtynelson.com/li...]biographies[/url] paint Drake's life as one of dispair, disappointment and the desperate quest for success, which he never found. The reality that so many of his lyrics are drenched in sorrow, coupled with the fact that he died so young, and by his own hand, only add to his mystique as a tragic figure.
If you have never heard any of Nick Drake's music, now is as good a time as any to check him out. I personally recommend [url=http://www.algonet.se/~iguana/DRAKE/NDway.html]Way To Blue[/url] , which is a compilation of songs that are meant to introduce listeners to Drake as a song writer and vocal performer. Personally, I'm looking forward to the documentary... but in the meantime, I'll leave you with some lyrics from one of my favorite Drake songs. If you take the time to actually read them all, you'll notice how sad and eerily prophetic they are.
[u]Fruit Tree[/u] Fame is but a fruit tree So very unsound. It can never flourish Till its stalk is in the ground. So men of fame Can never find a way Till time has flown Far from their dying day. Forgotten while you're here Remembered for a while A much updated ruin From a much outdated style.
Life is but a memory Happened long ago. Theatre full of sadness For a long forgotten show. Seems so easy Just to let it go on by Till you stop and wonder Why you never wondered why.
Safe in the womb Of an everlasting night You find the darkness can Give the brightest light. Safe in your place deep in the earth That's when they'll know what you were really worth. Forgotten while you're here Remembered for a while A much updated ruin From a much outdated style.
Fame is but a fruit tree So very unsound. It can never flourish Till its stalk is in the ground. So men of fame Can never find a way Till time has flown Far from their dying day.
Fruit tree, fruit tree No-one knows you but the rain and the air. Don't you worry They'll stand and stare when you're gone.
Fruit tree, fruit tree Open you eyes to another year. They'll all know That you were here when you're gone.
When I'm not busy regaling the world with my musical misadventures here, I can often be found reading about the world of music elsewhere. And tonight I'm gonna spread the love:
Gosh I want [url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/en...]this[/url] to be good. But I have sneaking suspicion it won't be. [b]The Hurting [/b]is one of my favorite albums of all time, by the way. (And I am currently regretting the fact that I didn't include its cover on our former list).
And finally, I know this may be a *bit* hard to read, but given our recent discussion regarding concert tickets, I found it fairly interesting, (and in some cases sickening). Notice for example that Celine Dion's ticket prices range from $87.50 - $225.00 each. Now, I am pretty willing to bet that most of us would shudder at the thought of paying that much to see what is, arguably, the world's most annoying Canadian (sorry [url=http://lloyd.tblog.com]Lloyd[/url] ), but judging from the amount posted in the column titled 'gross sales' people are flocking to see her sing her little heart out. Which leads me to believe that Celine Dion is one of those artists who benefits from, what I like to call, the Jesse Helms syndrome.
Let me explain...
For those of you who have never lived in the state of North Carolina or who are unfamiliar with bigoted southern politicians, [url=http://www.nato.int/pictures/...]Jesse Helms[/url] was, (he recently retired at the ripe old age of 311), a senator from the old north state who, among other things, is known for loving all mankind, as evidenced by the following quote: "I've been portrayed as a caveman by some. That's not true. I'm a conservative progressive, and that means I think all men are equal, be they slants, beaners or niggers." (-- Jesse Helms, North Carolina Progressive, February 6, 1985)
Now... let me make myself clear: I do NOT think Celine Dion is a bigoted, egotistical, moronic southern senator. I'm sure Celine embraces all people of all cultures and would love to sell them each (at least) one of her multi-cajillion selling CDs. However, my point is that during Jesse's 97 terms in office, [b]no one ever voted for him[/b]. It's true. Every year, I would ask people: are you voting for Jesse Helms?? The response was always the same, an emphatic "No!" And yet, every year, miraculously, he was elected. Apparently, people secretly adored Jesse and his loveable racist persona, but were just too ashamed to admit it. (Go figure!)
Which brings me to Celine....
We all shake are our heads at the idea of paying $225.00 to see her pound her chest and declare her love for Rene while belting out a disturblingly french rendition of "Can't Get Enough of Your Love, Baby." (Meanwhile, Barry White turns in his grave)... and yet, she's playing to packed houses. Clearly, a bunch of you out there really dig Celine too... but are simply too embarrassed to admit that My Heart Will Go On was your wedding song.
-----
Oh and one last note ~
Personally, I'm sorry I missed the Ultra Music Festival. Now THAT's a line-up I'd pay to see. However, I'd be afraid to see Metallica for fear that they would find some reason to sue me.
Ok... I admit it. Yesterday's post regarding concert tickets was kind of a set up. Last night I went to see The Innocence Mission at a small club outside of DC called [url=http://www.jamminjava.com/]Jammin Java[/url] . (If you live in the DC area, this is a GREAT place to see indie bands). The tickets cost $15 and it was one of the best shows I have ever seen. (Admittedly, however, when the beer costs $5.00 each, the show quickly becomes a bit more expensive.)
The venue itself only holds about 300 people but it was packed. It was around 9pm when Innocence Mission walked on stage. The first thing I noticed was how shy and unassuming they were. They seemed genuinely surprised, and even a bit overwhelmed, by the fact that so many people had crowded into a small club outside of DC just to see them.
They began their set immediately with the first song from their new album, "Tomorrow on The Runway." Even though I had seem them live before, the first note reminded me of what an amazing band they are. Every note of Don's guitar and every cadence of Karen's voice seemed to match that of the original recording, and yet surpass it at the same time.
Describing Karen Peris' voice is like describing the wind or the color blue... it can't be done with any true accuracy. It's a little stronger than you might guess from having listened to their CDs, but beyond that it is everything you would expect and hope for and more. Her voice reminds me that behind all joy and sorrow is something beautiful and pure. It is comforting and haunting at the same time, wrapping you in a loving blanket of sound while tugging at and quietly exposing the forgotten and frail portions of your heart that most people keep hidden.
The set included, but was not limited to: [i]When Mac Was Swimming, I Never Knew You From The Sun, Beautiful Change, One for Sorrow, Two for Joy [/i] and [i]Look for Me as You Go By[/i]-- all from [url=http://www.amazon.com/exec/ob...]Befriended[/url] . However, they also played [i]Follow Me, Lakes of Canada [/i]and [i]I Haven't Seen this Day Before [/i] from [url=http://www.amazon.com/exec/ob...]Birds of My Neighborhood[/url] , as well as [i]Keeping Awake, Bright As Yellow, Happy, The End[/i] and [i]Our Harry [/i]from [url=http://www.amazon.com/exec/ob...]Glow[/url] and [i]Sorry and Glad Together, Every Hour Here[/i] and [i]Someday Coming Child [/i]from [url=http://www.amazon.com/exec/ob...]Umbrella[/url] . Plus they came back for 2 encores where people called out songs and they laughed, talked about them and then played each request -- much to the delight of the person who had asked for it. (I asked for [i]Now In This Hush [/i]from Umbrella). All told, the show lasted more than 2 hours -- but it felt like the blink of an eye.
So ya... great music shouldn't cost a fortune, and in this case it didn't. If you are interested in learning more about IM, here are some links.
1. Anything Box: When We Lie 2. The Cure: A Forest (Tree Mix) 3. OMD: Forever Live and Die 4. Erasure: Oh L'Amour 5. Men Without Hats: Safety Dance 6. Depeche Mode: Personal Jesus 7. Tears For Fears: Suffer The Children 8. Pet Shop Boys: West End Girls 9. Alphaville: Big In Japan 10. Godley and Creme: Cry 11. Human League: Don't You Want Me 12. Flock of Seagulls: I Ran 13. Book of Love: Boy 14. Soft Cell: Tainted Love 15. Brittle Stars: Souvenir
When I was 15 years old, I went to see George Michael in concert. (I don't admit this very often, but today, such a confession serves a unique purpose, and I promise to do my act of contrition later).
When my friends and I learned that he was coming in concert, we immediately swung into action. We found out that the tickets would cost $28.00 each, which seemed like a fortune to us... so we borrowed and begged and saved until we each had our cash. The night before the tickets went on sale, we slept out in the parking lot of The Bon Marche in Olympia, Washington, (our local ticketmaster outlet), so that we could be one of the first in line to make our purchase. (Turns out there were at least 100 other teenage girls sleeping out there too... so we were far from the first ones in). Anyway, we bought out tickets, and about a month later we drove to the [url=http://www.mcgranahan.com/pro...]Tacoma Dome [/url] to see him in all of his plastic, sugary, lasery goodness. We were about 5,000 rows from the stage, but we loved every second of it. I can still remember the feeling of complete hollow out-let down when the show was over and the lights in the arena came up. Very few things in the world can duplicate that feeling. My ears rang the entire ride home.
The next week, we all wore our concert t-shirts to school, and carried the program, (which I still have), to class ~ regaling the rest of our friends with stories about everything from sleeping in the parking lot, to the night of the concert. For a few days, we were superheroes... and I remembered thinking that there was no price (monetarily or otherwise) that was too much to pay to see your favorite bands/musicians perform live.
It's only been recently that I have started to feel as though I may have been wrong.
According to this [url=http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4...]article[/url], concert tickets average about $100.00 a piece these days, and in some cases much, much more. The article makes this point:
The question is: Why are prices soaring? Ray Waddell, who follows the industry at Amusement Business Magazine says there are several factors
"I think there was perception that: a) Concerts were underpriced at one time and that, b) Scalpers were routinely getting three, four, five times what the face value of the ticket was,” he said. “The promoters decided why not catch up with them."
I suppose if you're an economics major, that makes perfect sense, but if you're just an average music fan, it's kind of a tough pill to swallow. Believe me, I realize that musicians and their band of merry men behind the scenes need to make money, or they have to stop making music. But I can't help but lament the fact that going to a concert has become a luxury item that only the richest fans will be able to afford.
Of course, that's not to say that there aren't some bands out there that are still worth seeing. According to pollstar, [url=http://www.pollstar.com/]these [/url] are the hottest acts in town. These days, my tastes tend to lean towards artists that lack the mainstream flavor, but I'd still shell out a goodly amount of bucks for a few bands. (I feel another list coming: suggestions?) However, I have to say that as prices go up, and the quality of mainstream music goes down, the list of major performers I'd be willing to fork out the bucks for is getting smaller and smaller.
First things first: As you can see, I finally chose a new header... and in a bizarre twist of fate, I decided onsomething other than the three choices I had presented (although really it is just an alternate version of the 3rd one with a couple of minor adjustments). Anyway, I hope everyone approves. Feel free to let me know what you think. And many, many thanks again to [url=http://brogonzo]brogonzo[/url] and[url=http://fatalfame]fatalfame[/url] for the ones they made me. I'm planning to keep them in storage for later use. :D
Ok... so, let's talk about album covers.
From time to time I have the opportunity (or maybe luxury is a better word) to interview various ands/artists about the music they make. Not only is this absolutely thrilling for me, but I also find that each time I talk to a musician, I learn at least one new thing about, not only their music, but also music in general, the industry and the creation process. A couple of years ago, during one such conversation, I remember an artist lamenting the high cost of producing cover art inserts for his CDs. His general complaint was that although he enjoyed the creation process, not only was the cost of producing the inserts prohibitive, but he never really knew if people appreciated or enjoyed them. Well... given the number (and quality) of responses I received here regarding favorite album covers of all time, I think it's safe to say that the artwork that fits inside those tiny plastic sleeves is, on the whole, a worthy investment for musicians to make.
Comment: "The guy shaking the hand of the other guy, who's on fire, seems to say something about modern acceptance of destruction, or something."
Artist: REM
Title: Monster
Comment: "It's a blurry stamp image of a tiger or something on an orange background, but for some reason the strangeness and simplicity of the image are representative of the entire album."
Author's note: I really could not agree more with Ian's interpretation of the Monster cover. It's very appropriate image for the album.
Comment: "There is also a used record store in town that always has a great window display of records. One album that always comes to mind, but one I have never heard is Herb Alpert''s "Whipped Cream & Other Delights" with the woman covered in whipped cream."
Author's note: My mom had this album, growing up ~ I don't think it is one of his best, but for some reason *wink* my brother always liked the cover.
Artist: Counting Crows
Title: This Desert Life
Comment: "I have the kids book this illustration comes from."
Author's note: Even though Craig let this cover speak for itself, I would just add that this is one of those covers that has become a part of popular culture. It also happens to be one of my favorite Beatles albums. Great pick!
Comment: "My favorite album back is Cyndi Lauper's She's So Unusual. Granted, the front isn't much. But man, those shoes! And the nuance there. "
Author's note: It was really tough for me to find a picture of this! I love the distorted image of Van Gogh's Starry Night on the heels of her shoes... Sorry for the poor quality pic.
Artist: Nitzer Ebb
Title: Belief
Comment: "it's so artistic in a sterile kind of way."
Comment: "I'd say [this] is the best album cover of recent times.... but maybe that's just because I don't like Bush. ;)"
Artist: Nirvana
Title: In Utero
Comment: "okay, "Nevermind" had a greater impact, but "In Utero's" cover is more interesting, I think."
Author's Note: I agree.
Artist: The Clash
Title: London Calling
Comment: "epitomizes punk rock."
Author's Note: Again, this one was on my list too.
Artist: Led Zeppelin
Title: House of the Holy
Comment: None
Artist: Green Day
Title: Dookie
Comment: None
Artist: Smashing Pumpkins
Title: Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
Comment: "the sweet celestial images relate wonderfully to the melodic masterpieces of the CDs."
[u]David's Picks:[/u]
Artist: REM
Title: Murmur
Comment: "but if i had to name one, it might be REM's Murmer cd. when i was a kid, it always reminded me of the south."
[u]Justanotherguy's Picks:[/u]
Artist: Clan of Xymox
Title: Medusa
Comment: "This album pretty much opened my eyes to stuff I never knew existed, so it will always be a favorite."
Wow! Lot's of excellent suggestions, many of which would have been were on my own list as well. Here are a few additional covers I would have included:
[u]Juniperflux's Picks:[/u]
Artist: The Cure
Title: Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me
Comment: The close up of Robert Smith's lips is just decadent.
Artist: Dead Leaves Rising
Title: Waking Up On The Wrong Side of No One
Comment: This tiny picture really doesn't do this album justice. The black and white photo of the scarred boy on the cover is very powerful, and appropriate to the music inside.
Artist: Audra
Title: In the Theatre
Comment: Honestly, I think the reason I like this one, is because the two girls on the cover remind me of the twins from [u]The Shining. [/u](I know, I need help).
Artist: Depeche Mode
Title: Violator
Comment: Again, this is another cover that just seems to work with the music inside.
Artist: Cocteau Twins
Title: Milk and Kisses
Comment: For some reason, I just really love the blurred image on the cover. Much like the band's lyrics, it's foreign and familiar at all once.
Artist: Love Spirals Downwards
Title: Ardor
Comment: xymox : justanotherguy as Love Spirals Downwards : juniperflux. This cover will always mean a lot to me.
Artist: Beck
Title: Odelay
Comment: This one just always make me go, huh?
Artist: The Ramones
Title: Self Titled
Comment: There are very few cover shots containing just the band that can match this. These boys are practically dripping with coolness.
Artist: Peter Gabriel
Title: Self Titled
Comment: I absolutely love this cover. And again, it's important to note how well it fits with the music within.
Artist: The Police
Title: Ghost In The Machine
Comment: It probably has something to do with the fact that this was the first album I ever bought, but to me, this will always be a classic.
Again, I'm really pleased with this list, and I'm grateful for your suggestions. (Please note that if your suggestions were not posted, it is either because I could not find a picture, or you did not provide and album title, or I was too lazy). If you are interested in more, Rolling Stone did an article on the same topic a few years back. [url=http://www.rollingstone.com/f...]Check it out![/url] Also, Kate suggests the following link if you are interested in some of the [url=http://porktornado.diaryland....]WORST[/url] covers ever made.
First of all, let me just say that it was painfully obvious that many of you didn't bother to read the entirety of my last post. Shame on you. Shame! You can hardly imagine how shocked I was to find that you were not rivited to my ever word. ;-) (In the future, I'll see what I can do to liven things up around here). In all seriousness, for those of you who didn't quite make it down to the bottom, let me recap: In reference to the Degas painting I boldly asked you to share song lyrics that were intimate and deeply personal - lyrics that were defining and/or seemed to be written directly about you... which could explain why so few of you decided to answer the call. A big thanks to the few of you who did, however, respond to that charge. Of course, I'd still welcome posts of that nature, so feel free to keep sharing. However, as promised, today I am going to share with you some of mine. 
When I mention to people that I listen to [url=www.npr.org]NPR[/url] , their next remark usually has something to do with the arrival of my next social security check. (Apparently, everyone I know is a smartass). However, I have found that NPR is actually a great place to learn about new music. Not only do they feature relatively obscure bands as the transitional pieces between news programs such as [url
Gosh... I would love to be able to say that I miss the days when "musicians" actually played an instrument or, at the very minimum, could get through a complete chorus without the aid of a synthesized vocal reproduction to help them lengthen the note or place it electronically on key. However, the truth is that throughout history there have been many "artists" who managed to make it to the top riding an [i][b]image[/b][/i] driven wave, rather than one based on talent. Yes... overrated bands/solo acts have been around forever. In fact, it was [url
When I first started this blog, I did a post about artists who died before their time, but whose music lives on. One of the artists on that list was Nick Drake. I thought about him again today because of [url
And finally, I know this may be a *bit* hard to read, but given our recent discussion regarding concert tickets, I found it fairly interesting, (and in some cases sickening). Notice for example that Celine Dion's ticket prices range from $87.50 - $225.00 each. Now, I am pretty willing to bet that most of us would shudder at the thought of paying that much to see what is, arguably, the world's most annoying Canadian (sorry [url
The venue itself only holds about 300 people but it was packed. It was around 9pm when Innocence Mission walked on stage. The first thing I noticed was how shy and unassuming they were. They seemed genuinely surprised, and even a bit overwhelmed, by the fact that so many people had crowded into a small club outside of DC just to see them. 
Describing Karen Peris' voice is like describing the wind or the color blue... it can't be done with any true accuracy. It's a little stronger than you might guess from having listened to their CDs, but beyond that it is everything you would expect and hope for and more. Her voice reminds me that behind all joy and sorrow is something beautiful and pure. It is comforting and haunting at the same time, wrapping you in a loving blanket of sound while tugging at and quietly exposing the forgotten and frail portions of your heart that most people keep hidden. 
When I was 15 years old, I went to see George Michael in concert. (I don't admit this very often, but today, such a confession serves a unique purpose, and I promise to do my act of contrition later). 
Artist: Pink Floyd
Artist: REM
Artist: Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass
Artist: Counting Crows
Artist: Tori Amos
Artist: Bjork
Artist: Toad The Wet Sprocket
Artist: The Who
Artist: Meatloaf
Artist: Jane's Addiction
Artist: The Beatles
Artist: Eagles
Artist: Cyndi Lauper
Artist: Nitzer Ebb
Artist: Guns and Roses
Artist: Rolling Stones
Artist: Pink Floyd
Artist: Belle and Sebastian
Artist: Grateful Dead
Artist: The Cars
Artist: NOFX
Artist: Nirvana
Artist: The Clash
Artist: Led Zeppelin
Artist: Green Day
Artist: Smashing Pumpkins
Artist: REM
Artist: Clan of Xymox
Artist: The Cure
Artist: Dead Leaves Rising
Artist: Audra
Artist: Depeche Mode
Artist: Cocteau Twins
Artist: Love Spirals Downwards
Artist: Beck
Artist: The Ramones
Artist: Peter Gabriel
Artist: The Police