Its Ascension Thursday, one of the more confusing Catholic holy days. So in honor of Jesus making it upstairs for good, here's a b-side from The Hold Steady's most recent outing, Heaven is Whenever, aptly named for your to enjoyment:
The Hold Steady - Ascension Blues
Showing posts with label single. Show all posts
Showing posts with label single. Show all posts
The Best of 2009 - 25 Songs
Dear Internet, sorry for the tardiness, my dog ate my iTunes. So to round out this unbearable Sober January, here we go: the 25 best songs, in my opinion, to come out in 2009, in alphabetical order. Also, a bonus funny song.
Notice 3 reoccurring artists: Casablancas, Ward and Yorn. Quite a year for those blokes.
[right-click and "save as" individually, or click here to download all in a .zip]
11th Dimension - Julian Casablancas
The early descriptions of this track worried me: synth, 80's, dance anthem. The execution won me over. Way to rock, Jules.
All the Pretty Girls - fun.
Musical Theater pop rock. If "RENT" was like this, I'd have actually stayed awake when my girlfriend made me go see it.
Ambling Alp - Yeasayer
Insanity rules in this apocalyptic dance anthem. Kinda 80's-ish, spastic, and catchy as hell.
The Calculation - Regina Spektor
Quirky piano pop. Very light, very lyrical, very off-beat. This will sound weird, but I love the vocal-flugelhorn sound she makes throughout.
Easy - Deer Tick
Is this song sarcastic? It certainly sounds angry, but it's a very tight roots-rock song.
Empire State Of Mind - Jay-Z
I think that Mayor Hova made it illegal to not include this on a "Best of 2009" list.
The Fixer - Pearl Jam
I cringe at aging rockers trying to make their fans think that new songs can be relevant. Well, it worked here.
Garbage Day - Brendan Benson
Disco Rocks? Here it does, courtesy of some sweet sweet hooks. Reminds me of "Breakin' Up" by Rilo Kiley.
Hang You from the Heavens - The Dead Weather
Jack White doesn't sing, or ever play guitar on this track. But you know it's him because of how awesome it is. I'm usually not one for gratuitous drum solos, but by all means JW, go ahead.
Home - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
A Hippie Western! Weirdo's dancing while tumbleweeds shuffle by in a lo-fi ghost-town.
I Want You To Know - Dinosaur Jr.
More 90's band redemption, from a more underground band. Solid rock throughout.
Lions - The Features
The best hook of the year. It sucks you in. It's amazingly interesting. The verse is a bit brooding, but it's cohesive.
Little Secrets - Passion Pit
Imagine the Super Mario Bros at a rave. All the little goombas and toad guys singing along. This year's MGMT single that they didn't write.
My Last Mistake - Dan Auerbach
The Black Keys' frontman goes solo with some throwback early 70's garage rock. Makes you feel like starting a band or driving cross-country.
Never Had Nobody Like You - M. Ward (feat. Zooey Deschanel)
The lost single by She & Him, performed by...She & Him.
On A Whim - Flying Machines
A grandiose, over-the-top, and spastic ELO sendup. I hope these guys have more to offer in 2010.
Relator - Scarlett Johansson & Pete Yorn
The sultry temptress and Mr. Morningafter play some sunny California pop.
Rome - Phoenix
How is this not in every rom-com trailer out right now? The type of song you and your girlfriend can both agree on.
Rooftop - Pete Yorn
Mr. Morningafter flies east and spends a lazy summer night in NYC.
Say Please - Monsters Of Folk
A rocking lyrical-round by the indie supergroup. It just sounds like fun.
So Far Around The Bend - The National
One of my 2010 resolutions is to get into The National this year. If the rest of their catalog is like this tight wintry ballad, I'm in for a nice surprise.
Two Weeks - Grizzly Bear
I don't even know how to describe this song. Operatic? Thematic? Illmatic? It's awesome however you slice it.
Warm Heart Of Africa - The Very Best (feat. Ezra Koenig)
What? The lead singer of Vampire Weekend? OMG! Afro-pop 4eva!
Wet Hair - Japandroids
I don't know where I heard this, but its true: Japandroids sound like their name would lead you to believe.
You Never Know - Wilco
Hey Tweedy, watch out, the Traveling Wilbury's are going to be pissed you stole their sound. Nice track though.
BONUS:
Boombox - The Lonely Island (feat. Julian Casablancas)
When God, when will we see the Digital Short for this? I need to see the boiled goose!
Notice 3 reoccurring artists: Casablancas, Ward and Yorn. Quite a year for those blokes.
[right-click and "save as" individually, or click here to download all in a .zip]
11th Dimension - Julian Casablancas
The early descriptions of this track worried me: synth, 80's, dance anthem. The execution won me over. Way to rock, Jules.
All the Pretty Girls - fun.
Musical Theater pop rock. If "RENT" was like this, I'd have actually stayed awake when my girlfriend made me go see it.
Ambling Alp - Yeasayer
Insanity rules in this apocalyptic dance anthem. Kinda 80's-ish, spastic, and catchy as hell.
The Calculation - Regina Spektor
Quirky piano pop. Very light, very lyrical, very off-beat. This will sound weird, but I love the vocal-flugelhorn sound she makes throughout.
Easy - Deer Tick
Is this song sarcastic? It certainly sounds angry, but it's a very tight roots-rock song.
Empire State Of Mind - Jay-Z
I think that Mayor Hova made it illegal to not include this on a "Best of 2009" list.
The Fixer - Pearl Jam
I cringe at aging rockers trying to make their fans think that new songs can be relevant. Well, it worked here.
Garbage Day - Brendan Benson
Disco Rocks? Here it does, courtesy of some sweet sweet hooks. Reminds me of "Breakin' Up" by Rilo Kiley.
Hang You from the Heavens - The Dead Weather
Jack White doesn't sing, or ever play guitar on this track. But you know it's him because of how awesome it is. I'm usually not one for gratuitous drum solos, but by all means JW, go ahead.
Home - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
A Hippie Western! Weirdo's dancing while tumbleweeds shuffle by in a lo-fi ghost-town.
I Want You To Know - Dinosaur Jr.
More 90's band redemption, from a more underground band. Solid rock throughout.
Lions - The Features
The best hook of the year. It sucks you in. It's amazingly interesting. The verse is a bit brooding, but it's cohesive.
Little Secrets - Passion Pit
Imagine the Super Mario Bros at a rave. All the little goombas and toad guys singing along. This year's MGMT single that they didn't write.
My Last Mistake - Dan Auerbach
The Black Keys' frontman goes solo with some throwback early 70's garage rock. Makes you feel like starting a band or driving cross-country.
Never Had Nobody Like You - M. Ward (feat. Zooey Deschanel)
The lost single by She & Him, performed by...She & Him.
On A Whim - Flying Machines
A grandiose, over-the-top, and spastic ELO sendup. I hope these guys have more to offer in 2010.
Relator - Scarlett Johansson & Pete Yorn
The sultry temptress and Mr. Morningafter play some sunny California pop.
Rome - Phoenix
How is this not in every rom-com trailer out right now? The type of song you and your girlfriend can both agree on.
Rooftop - Pete Yorn
Mr. Morningafter flies east and spends a lazy summer night in NYC.
Say Please - Monsters Of Folk
A rocking lyrical-round by the indie supergroup. It just sounds like fun.
So Far Around The Bend - The National
One of my 2010 resolutions is to get into The National this year. If the rest of their catalog is like this tight wintry ballad, I'm in for a nice surprise.
Two Weeks - Grizzly Bear
I don't even know how to describe this song. Operatic? Thematic? Illmatic? It's awesome however you slice it.
Warm Heart Of Africa - The Very Best (feat. Ezra Koenig)
What? The lead singer of Vampire Weekend? OMG! Afro-pop 4eva!
Wet Hair - Japandroids
I don't know where I heard this, but its true: Japandroids sound like their name would lead you to believe.
You Never Know - Wilco
Hey Tweedy, watch out, the Traveling Wilbury's are going to be pissed you stole their sound. Nice track though.
BONUS:
Boombox - The Lonely Island (feat. Julian Casablancas)
When God, when will we see the Digital Short for this? I need to see the boiled goose!
Loose Ends: Feb '09
1) My sober January sucked. Sure I lost some weight, but there's a 50/50 chance I'm going to gain it right back (bets anyone?). I didn't sleep any better (which is so little to begin with). I didn't feel any healthier overall day-to-day. And I'm pretty sure my friends still hate me for ditching them all month. But I'm back on the sauce, and happier than ever. So in honor, listen to my favorite song about drinking, "Good Ol' Alcohol" by the Mooney Suzuki (a sadly underrated rock band).
2) Check out Bite Sized Spoilers, a clever blog from my friend the Kate. And best of all, you can play along right at home (I did, and they were kind enough to post it).
3) You really should watch Life Wednesdays at 9 on NBC (or on Hulu). TiVo it while you watch Lost (if you're still a slave to the meaningless). Not only is it a unique and well-written drama featuring one of the best character actors on the small screen (Damien Lewis); not only does it feature the most redheads on TV (the aforementioned Lewis, Donal Logue and Christina Hendricks); and not only does it start off my Wednesday trifecta of cop shows (with Life on Mars and L&O), but it has one of the best soundtracks on TV. They've featured Beck, Spoon, Radiohead, The Black Keys, The Raconteurs, Cat Power, Aimee Mann, M83, !!!, Sloan and many others. Here are a few of my favorite songs that I discovered thanks to Detective Charlie Crews:
Jon Doe - Golden State
Camper von Beethoven - Pictures of Matchstick Men
Gutter Twins - I Was In Love With You
The Beta Band - Squares
Jackie Greene - I Don't Live In A Dream
2) Check out Bite Sized Spoilers, a clever blog from my friend the Kate. And best of all, you can play along right at home (I did, and they were kind enough to post it).
3) You really should watch Life Wednesdays at 9 on NBC (or on Hulu). TiVo it while you watch Lost (if you're still a slave to the meaningless). Not only is it a unique and well-written drama featuring one of the best character actors on the small screen (Damien Lewis); not only does it feature the most redheads on TV (the aforementioned Lewis, Donal Logue and Christina Hendricks); and not only does it start off my Wednesday trifecta of cop shows (with Life on Mars and L&O), but it has one of the best soundtracks on TV. They've featured Beck, Spoon, Radiohead, The Black Keys, The Raconteurs, Cat Power, Aimee Mann, M83, !!!, Sloan and many others. Here are a few of my favorite songs that I discovered thanks to Detective Charlie Crews:
Jon Doe - Golden State
Camper von Beethoven - Pictures of Matchstick Men
Gutter Twins - I Was In Love With You
The Beta Band - Squares
Jackie Greene - I Don't Live In A Dream
Playlist: January 2009
The long delayed "what did I find" list for January 2009. Enjoy. Not all the songs are necessarily brand new; most of it is stuff I missed in 2008. But such is January.
Matt & Kim - Daylight
A spastic dance-beat-heavy song with some just-short-of-annoying vocals, but the great piano line and song structure makes up for all it's sins. It's just a ton of fun to listen to.
The Felice Brothers - Frankie's Gun
My favorite song of the month: a backwoods folk-rock song with a great pop chorus. Reminds me of Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show and the more campfire-y Band songs. It will have you singing along in no time. And the lead singer sounds like a Muppet, so it's even better when you envision these guys playing it.
Delta Spirit - Trashcan
There is something about percussive rhythm piano that I cant get enough of. This song is driven by a great piano line, and has such a simple pop hook, that you feel like you've heard it before. These guys put out a solid album in 2008 called "Ode to Sunshine" and this is the crown single. It's SoCal rock with the right amount of grittiness to make it authentic.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!!
By and far the oddest song I've pumped into my iTunes in a long while. The story of a modern day Lazarus (or Larry as he's known here) raised from the dead against his will. Art-rock flair in a hilarious story.
Aimee Mann - Freeway
Aimee is feel-good music with a witty edge; so don't be fooled by the groove. She's got one of those unique songwriting POVs and voices that has given her a rabid fanbase and longevity.
Elvis Costello - No Hiding Place
I've been watching a lot of Elvis' show "Spectacle" on the Sundance Channel. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of music, which I dig. But aside from that, he put out a new album last year, and this is the best track from it. A nice uptempo rocker with those classic EC lyrics and nasal howl.
What Made Milwaukee Famous - Sultan
This song gets dangerously close to becoming a pop-punk cliche, but manages to stay on the right side of the road. It's driving music for sure, and the vocalist keeps the car in rock territory. I wish the fake horn part (I think it's just an organ) were real though.
Bon Iver - Skinny Love
I missed this in 2008. It's depressingly honest folk rock, but despite the anger there is something positive in his voice. You might not immediately take to it, but you will catch yourself wanting to hear it again. It's like discovering a new alcoholic drink that's not great at first, but keeps you coming back until you do like it.
The Whigs - Right Hand On My Heart
I featured this already: a melodic, heavy-tempoed, epic rocker. Reminds me of a mix of 70's arena rock (as epitomised so well by the fictional Stillwater from Almost Famous) and good 90's alt rock.
Phantom Planet - Raise The Dead
I think I have to give these guys another try (I just felt so burned after Rooney...), because this is the second tune to completely surprise me off their latest album. This song is a perfect companion to their other single, "Do The Panic." It's more ballad-y, but remains upbeat and just as fun.
The Honey Brothers - Demonstration
Silly pop rock, decidedly middle of the road, but they managed to fit the word "defenestration" into the first verse, so they get points for that.
Matt & Kim - Daylight
A spastic dance-beat-heavy song with some just-short-of-annoying vocals, but the great piano line and song structure makes up for all it's sins. It's just a ton of fun to listen to.
The Felice Brothers - Frankie's Gun
My favorite song of the month: a backwoods folk-rock song with a great pop chorus. Reminds me of Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show and the more campfire-y Band songs. It will have you singing along in no time. And the lead singer sounds like a Muppet, so it's even better when you envision these guys playing it.
Delta Spirit - Trashcan
There is something about percussive rhythm piano that I cant get enough of. This song is driven by a great piano line, and has such a simple pop hook, that you feel like you've heard it before. These guys put out a solid album in 2008 called "Ode to Sunshine" and this is the crown single. It's SoCal rock with the right amount of grittiness to make it authentic.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!!
By and far the oddest song I've pumped into my iTunes in a long while. The story of a modern day Lazarus (or Larry as he's known here) raised from the dead against his will. Art-rock flair in a hilarious story.
Aimee Mann - Freeway
Aimee is feel-good music with a witty edge; so don't be fooled by the groove. She's got one of those unique songwriting POVs and voices that has given her a rabid fanbase and longevity.
Elvis Costello - No Hiding Place
I've been watching a lot of Elvis' show "Spectacle" on the Sundance Channel. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of music, which I dig. But aside from that, he put out a new album last year, and this is the best track from it. A nice uptempo rocker with those classic EC lyrics and nasal howl.
What Made Milwaukee Famous - Sultan
This song gets dangerously close to becoming a pop-punk cliche, but manages to stay on the right side of the road. It's driving music for sure, and the vocalist keeps the car in rock territory. I wish the fake horn part (I think it's just an organ) were real though.
Bon Iver - Skinny Love
I missed this in 2008. It's depressingly honest folk rock, but despite the anger there is something positive in his voice. You might not immediately take to it, but you will catch yourself wanting to hear it again. It's like discovering a new alcoholic drink that's not great at first, but keeps you coming back until you do like it.
The Whigs - Right Hand On My Heart
I featured this already: a melodic, heavy-tempoed, epic rocker. Reminds me of a mix of 70's arena rock (as epitomised so well by the fictional Stillwater from Almost Famous) and good 90's alt rock.
Phantom Planet - Raise The Dead
I think I have to give these guys another try (I just felt so burned after Rooney...), because this is the second tune to completely surprise me off their latest album. This song is a perfect companion to their other single, "Do The Panic." It's more ballad-y, but remains upbeat and just as fun.
The Honey Brothers - Demonstration
Silly pop rock, decidedly middle of the road, but they managed to fit the word "defenestration" into the first verse, so they get points for that.
Playlist: Yes We Did Find Some America Songs!
While working this weekend, I think I caught that bug that is going around. You know, the one causing all this "Hope," "Optimism" and "thrills" (the kind that go up Chris Matthew's leg). Barack Obama is here to save America from the dangers of Bernie Madoff, junk food, and pirates using nothing but charisma, intelligence, and a killer jumpshot.
So in honor of 44's swearing in, I typed "USA" and "America" into my iTunes library and saw what popped up. Here are a few of my favorite America themed songs steaming on the right-hand side:
US Blues - The Grateful Dead
Of the Dead's more accessible tunes; it's a light, tongue-in-cheek blues-y/ragtime-y pop song. Wave that flag, wave it wide and high.
American Hearts - Piebald
Piebald was the last pop-punk band that I really liked. They were rocking, smart, and fun to listen to. But after them, everything went all emo and guyliner. Boo.
American Girl - Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Though I am very love/hate with Tom Petty, this song is undeniably awesome. And undeniably American. Fuck yeah.
A Few Words In Defense Of Our Country - Randy Newman
Despite the love-fest going on right now in DC, I'm sure Randy will continue to write about how fucked up American life is, even in the Obama years. He's insane.
Young Americans - David Bowie
Ain't there one damn song that can make me, break down and cry? No, not this one; but isn't the sax in it kickass? Rumor is that Bowie himself played it.
Ah Mary - Grace Potter & The Nocturnals
Country rock with a strong female vocal. It's fun, and I'm a sucker for a clever pop song (Spoiler Alert! Mary's last name is pronounced "Kah").
The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down - The Band
Though written by a Canadian, this sad account of the "War of Northern Aggression" all Levon Helm's, an Arkansawyer [had to look that one up]. He sings and drives this haunting ballad into eternity, lest we forget the bloodiest chapter in US history.
Momma Miss America - Paul McCartney
A groovy and slick instumental off his first solo album McCartney, in which he plays every instument. I love this song, but save for the meaningless title, it has nothing whatsoever to do with the United States.
Surfin' USA - The Beach Boys
Sweet Little Sixteen - Chuck Berry
Brian Wilson totally ripped off the Prime Minister of Rock n' Roll here, so I just gave you both songs. Check out how the lists of cities are different.
Coming To America - Neil Diamond
You bet your balls this made the list. How could it not? Comina-heyaa!
Streaming Has Arrived
At the urging of Promo Barbie and JK, I have figured out a way to stream my "Best of 2008" playlist on the blog. Check it out to your right under "Music" in the sidebar.
It's an imeem playlist, so you can play it here, or click it out and play it via imeem.
I realize that some of them are only :30 clips, but if you have imeem and sign up, it will make them full length. I'm trying to fix this.
I think I'll do this from now on, in addition to making them available for download. Sound good? Of course it does.
It's an imeem playlist, so you can play it here, or click it out and play it via imeem.
I realize that some of them are only :30 clips, but if you have imeem and sign up, it will make them full length. I'm trying to fix this.
I think I'll do this from now on, in addition to making them available for download. Sound good? Of course it does.
The Best of 2008 - 25 Singles
Here it is, my list of the 25 best songs that came out in 2008. They are streaming on the sidebar of the page. Merry Christmas!
In no particular order (except for the first one):
I'm Amazed - My Morning Jacket
The highest quality of American Music. Intricate but accessible, catchy but deep. It's musical happiness. This how enjoyable music should be to listen to. Best song of the year, no contest.
Many Shades of Black - The Raconteurs
Brandon Benson and Jack white deliver the most epic of rockers; it sounds like the centerpiece of a rock opera. The guitar work is as to be expects of JW, but the horns add that extra something.
Constructive Summer - The Hold Steady
Champions of the storytelling rock anthem, and heir to the restless narrative of Bruce and Bob; The Hold Steady are the tops.
You Are The Best Thing - Ray LaMontagne
If more "singer/songwriters" were like Ray, we'd be a lot better off. The horns in this song prove that a brass section can add balls to any love song (BONUS, your girlfriend will love this song).
I Got Mine - The Black Keys
The most badass song of the year. Listen to this while walking at night and feel very evil, yet vindicated (like you're a killer, but you only kill to keep bad guys off the street. Or you're a mercenary and have no moral problems with blood on your hands. Or...I'll stop). It's dirty, dirty blues.
Why Do You Let Me Stay Here? - She & Him
The cutest singer all year, Zooey Deschanel (yes, the actress) let's out a country rocker with an amazing groove. The vocal layering gives it that retro feel of warmth that most new records lack.
Who Put The Fire Out - Electric Touch
I'm a sucker for pianos, especially when they're more of a percussion instrument than anything. This Spoon-esque hit is a pure pop gem.
Use Somebody - Kings of Leon
Though their new album is a complete departure from their past, and it's significantly less rocking, they've managed to churn out this sincere uptempo ballad. (Gossip Girl approved, so your girlfriend has already heard and loved it)
Carpetbaggers - Jenny Lewis (w/Elvis Costello)
I wont go too deep into my love for Jenny (she's a redhead), but let's just say that she knows how I work. This three-chord, country-rock, hook-laden tale is exactly the song I would want to play with her. Unfortunately, it's not me but Elvis Costello, the new "cool-uncle" of rock, who nails it as her verse-trading vocal partner.
Morning Tide - The Little Ones
California beach pop. Harmonies, sun-soaked organs and a very singable chorus. Cheer up music for sure.
Goodbye Daughters of the Revolution - The Black Crowes
I'm overly critical of some of my favorite bands from the 90's who release new music (Oasis, CAKE, Pearl Jam), and the brothers Robinson reserve some of my harshest criticism. Their newest album isn't great, but this song is fantastic, if not a bit too long at the end. A chorus straight out of "Southern Harmony," and great guitar work get this one to the top. Rainsberger gets the gold for finding this one.
Do The Panic - Phantom Planet
PP kind of suck. They have a knack for pop rock for the post-Jonas Brothers but not-quite-Kings of Leon listeners, yet are mostly unimportant overall. However this song to me is a very tongue-in-cheek sendup of 50's dance songs and 00's mope-rock, and contains some great instrumental work. (Girlfriend friendly, 'cause she used to watch The O.C.)
Wake The Sun - Matches
I woke up to this song every morning for 8 months straight and never once got sick of it. Maybe it was because I was in a subconscious trance as it played, and it's soft, light and fun pop was unoffensive and soothing. But it's monotonous main guitar line is very uplifting and happy. Smile.
Aliens & Rainbows - Ferras
This one's for Tom and Inky. There's a love for Queen and Elton John that this guy holds dear, and it shows on this track. This single sounds like the introspective "big showstopping number" by the lead actor in a Superhero-themed big budget Broadway musical. Seriously. It's great.
In My Room - Albert Hammond Jr..
Albert is the guitar player in The Strokes. Albert is a big part of their NYC hipster rock sound. But Albert has an emotional, California pop side to him. His second solo outing doesn't disappoint, and this is the best rocker on the album.
Brand New Start - Little Joy
Fabrizio is the drummer in The Strokes. Fabrizio is a big part of their NYC hipster rock sound. But Fabrizio has an emotional, California pop side to him. His first solo outing doesn't disappoint, and this is a throwback soft-rock hit missing from AM radio.
Profanity Prayers - Beck
Beck somehow escapes my aforementioned 90's-artist wrath. He's not always good, but he's always pushing himself somewhere musically. This song is a rock fest of guitars and tempo. The little breakdown towards the end is the signature-Beck curveball.
Shut Up and Let Me Go - The Ting Tings
I know it's overexposed and annoyingly predictable, but dammit it's catchy, fun, bouncy, and I have a feeling the lead singer is hot. Brodie gets the W for introducing me to this one.
A Few Words (In Defense Of Our Country) - Randy Newman
Different than everything else on this list, because I would NEVER want you to put this on a party playlist. But download this song and take 5 minutes out of your life to put on some headphones and enjoy Randy's lyrics. He is the Larry David of music; cringe worthy, true 'til it hurts, and funny as hell.
Dying Is Fine - Ra Ra Riot
Their drummer died surfing before they started to record their debut album. They had written this song (inspired by an e.e.cummings poem) before his death, but sounds like a group eulogizing their lost friend. Aside from that, its a deep pop song with a haunting violin, great guitar work, and a catchy chorus. Not as sad of a song as I may make it sound, but it's complex and a great listen.
Swing That Tambourine - Kristoffer Ragnstam
I don't love this song until about 1:10 into it. The beginning sounds a little too Jack Johnson meets Postal Service, but when the refrain kicks in, it starts rocking. Very catchy; very good chorus.
Mercy - Duffy
I know this whole throwback-R&B-singers thing is gimmicky, but I loved Joss Stone in 2003, Amy Winehouse in 2006, and I dig Duffy now. It's Bill Clinton approved sexy. This is her best song.
Moab - Conor Oberst
Following up on "Four Winds" last year, this country-rocker from Mr. Bright Eyes proves how great he can be. A whole album of this and less moping would make me like him a ton more. The chorus sounds like an Irish folksong repurposed for the American west.
Time to Pretend - MGMT
The youth anthem of 2008. I cant lie; I dig it. It will be in every teen movie trailer in 2009, and in 20 years will be played at bars and people will look at each other and give that "OMG remember this song!" look. But for now, let's do what those sweaty hipsters say and find some models for wives.
(I Used To Couldn't Dance) Tight Pants - Eagles of Death Metal
EODM are a very guilty pleasure of mine. It's not death metal, it's garage-band dance-rock. All their songs smell of sex and booze and, well, tight pants, yeah! What's not to like? Hell, even I might dance to this.
In no particular order (except for the first one):
I'm Amazed - My Morning Jacket
The highest quality of American Music. Intricate but accessible, catchy but deep. It's musical happiness. This how enjoyable music should be to listen to. Best song of the year, no contest.
Many Shades of Black - The Raconteurs
Brandon Benson and Jack white deliver the most epic of rockers; it sounds like the centerpiece of a rock opera. The guitar work is as to be expects of JW, but the horns add that extra something.
Constructive Summer - The Hold Steady
Champions of the storytelling rock anthem, and heir to the restless narrative of Bruce and Bob; The Hold Steady are the tops.
You Are The Best Thing - Ray LaMontagne
If more "singer/songwriters" were like Ray, we'd be a lot better off. The horns in this song prove that a brass section can add balls to any love song (BONUS, your girlfriend will love this song).
I Got Mine - The Black Keys
The most badass song of the year. Listen to this while walking at night and feel very evil, yet vindicated (like you're a killer, but you only kill to keep bad guys off the street. Or you're a mercenary and have no moral problems with blood on your hands. Or...I'll stop). It's dirty, dirty blues.
Why Do You Let Me Stay Here? - She & Him
The cutest singer all year, Zooey Deschanel (yes, the actress) let's out a country rocker with an amazing groove. The vocal layering gives it that retro feel of warmth that most new records lack.
Who Put The Fire Out - Electric Touch
I'm a sucker for pianos, especially when they're more of a percussion instrument than anything. This Spoon-esque hit is a pure pop gem.
Use Somebody - Kings of Leon
Though their new album is a complete departure from their past, and it's significantly less rocking, they've managed to churn out this sincere uptempo ballad. (Gossip Girl approved, so your girlfriend has already heard and loved it)
Carpetbaggers - Jenny Lewis (w/Elvis Costello)
I wont go too deep into my love for Jenny (she's a redhead), but let's just say that she knows how I work. This three-chord, country-rock, hook-laden tale is exactly the song I would want to play with her. Unfortunately, it's not me but Elvis Costello, the new "cool-uncle" of rock, who nails it as her verse-trading vocal partner.
Morning Tide - The Little Ones
California beach pop. Harmonies, sun-soaked organs and a very singable chorus. Cheer up music for sure.
Goodbye Daughters of the Revolution - The Black Crowes
I'm overly critical of some of my favorite bands from the 90's who release new music (Oasis, CAKE, Pearl Jam), and the brothers Robinson reserve some of my harshest criticism. Their newest album isn't great, but this song is fantastic, if not a bit too long at the end. A chorus straight out of "Southern Harmony," and great guitar work get this one to the top. Rainsberger gets the gold for finding this one.
Do The Panic - Phantom Planet
PP kind of suck. They have a knack for pop rock for the post-Jonas Brothers but not-quite-Kings of Leon listeners, yet are mostly unimportant overall. However this song to me is a very tongue-in-cheek sendup of 50's dance songs and 00's mope-rock, and contains some great instrumental work. (Girlfriend friendly, 'cause she used to watch The O.C.)
Wake The Sun - Matches
I woke up to this song every morning for 8 months straight and never once got sick of it. Maybe it was because I was in a subconscious trance as it played, and it's soft, light and fun pop was unoffensive and soothing. But it's monotonous main guitar line is very uplifting and happy. Smile.
Aliens & Rainbows - Ferras
This one's for Tom and Inky. There's a love for Queen and Elton John that this guy holds dear, and it shows on this track. This single sounds like the introspective "big showstopping number" by the lead actor in a Superhero-themed big budget Broadway musical. Seriously. It's great.
In My Room - Albert Hammond Jr..
Albert is the guitar player in The Strokes. Albert is a big part of their NYC hipster rock sound. But Albert has an emotional, California pop side to him. His second solo outing doesn't disappoint, and this is the best rocker on the album.
Brand New Start - Little Joy
Fabrizio is the drummer in The Strokes. Fabrizio is a big part of their NYC hipster rock sound. But Fabrizio has an emotional, California pop side to him. His first solo outing doesn't disappoint, and this is a throwback soft-rock hit missing from AM radio.
Profanity Prayers - Beck
Beck somehow escapes my aforementioned 90's-artist wrath. He's not always good, but he's always pushing himself somewhere musically. This song is a rock fest of guitars and tempo. The little breakdown towards the end is the signature-Beck curveball.
Shut Up and Let Me Go - The Ting Tings
I know it's overexposed and annoyingly predictable, but dammit it's catchy, fun, bouncy, and I have a feeling the lead singer is hot. Brodie gets the W for introducing me to this one.
A Few Words (In Defense Of Our Country) - Randy Newman
Different than everything else on this list, because I would NEVER want you to put this on a party playlist. But download this song and take 5 minutes out of your life to put on some headphones and enjoy Randy's lyrics. He is the Larry David of music; cringe worthy, true 'til it hurts, and funny as hell.
Dying Is Fine - Ra Ra Riot
Their drummer died surfing before they started to record their debut album. They had written this song (inspired by an e.e.cummings poem) before his death, but sounds like a group eulogizing their lost friend. Aside from that, its a deep pop song with a haunting violin, great guitar work, and a catchy chorus. Not as sad of a song as I may make it sound, but it's complex and a great listen.
Swing That Tambourine - Kristoffer Ragnstam
I don't love this song until about 1:10 into it. The beginning sounds a little too Jack Johnson meets Postal Service, but when the refrain kicks in, it starts rocking. Very catchy; very good chorus.
Mercy - Duffy
I know this whole throwback-R&B-singers thing is gimmicky, but I loved Joss Stone in 2003, Amy Winehouse in 2006, and I dig Duffy now. It's Bill Clinton approved sexy. This is her best song.
Moab - Conor Oberst
Following up on "Four Winds" last year, this country-rocker from Mr. Bright Eyes proves how great he can be. A whole album of this and less moping would make me like him a ton more. The chorus sounds like an Irish folksong repurposed for the American west.
Time to Pretend - MGMT
The youth anthem of 2008. I cant lie; I dig it. It will be in every teen movie trailer in 2009, and in 20 years will be played at bars and people will look at each other and give that "OMG remember this song!" look. But for now, let's do what those sweaty hipsters say and find some models for wives.
(I Used To Couldn't Dance) Tight Pants - Eagles of Death Metal
EODM are a very guilty pleasure of mine. It's not death metal, it's garage-band dance-rock. All their songs smell of sex and booze and, well, tight pants, yeah! What's not to like? Hell, even I might dance to this.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
