Weekend Music Roundup

This week I decided to track down some albums that have been on my wishlist for years in some cases. I'm a very loyal listener. When a band makes an album that I really like, I will usually give every album they make afterwards a chance, within limits of course. A string of several bad records is a sure way to get bumped. The most difficult part of being a loyal listener is when a band falls into obscurity and it becomes nearly impossible to get a hold of their newest release. I've recently been using Xbox Music and have been very impressed with the scope of their catalog, and the ability to add to your collection for constant access. So I went back to find some things I'd been on the hunt for and as a result, it has been a very satisfactory week of music pleasure. Enjoy

Peter Murphy's Carver Combo - Let The Fire In: Five years ago one of my favorite albums was the debut from this Stockholm band. Seven years later, the follow-up to "One Sin Between Me and the Lord" was released and I finally got to listen to it this week. As with most Scandinavian indie bands, there's a permeating gloom that weaves through the music that makes everything sound like haunted Dicken's era street performers washed up on the shores of time. The five years were well spent as this is a superior album, which is saying something considering the other was fantastic. "Rapture Girl," "We Are the Boys," "Let the Fire In," and "Black Crow" are outstanding tracks among a fully solid listing. For fans of Madrugada, Johnassi, or Kaizers Orchestra.

 

Lungfish - Necrophones: Released in 2000, this is the Baltimore post-hardcore band's ninth album with Discord records. In the '90's this was one of my favorite bands, and I religiously purchased each new album. In recent years, I've been trying to catch up on the ones I missed. This is the first of the final 3 albums from the past decade. By this time they had morphed from the traditional post-hardcore sound to something more hymn based. There has always been a spiritual side to their sound, and it comes through heavily on this album that feels freak-folk inspired. A very solid album, like all of their albums.

The Sixth Great Lake - Sunday Bridge: In 2001 this Brooklyn indie folk band released their debut album on the great Kindercore label. As a member of the Elephant 6 collective, I was all over that album, and it was a true gem.  This record, their only other album, was only released on vinyl in 2003 and was very hard to find, though I've tried many times. This week I finally got to listen to it, and it's equally as compelling as their first. They have a country folk feel, much like later day Decemberists and rooted in the quieter side of the Grateful Dead. "The Saint," "House of Cards," and "Twenty-Three Songs" are standouts.

The Natural History - People That I Meet: This Brooklyn band broke onto the scene in 2002 with the release of their phenomenal self-titled debut EP. It was five songs of pure brilliance that never managed to get farther than the city clubs. They followed it up the next year with a full-length album "Beat Beat Heartbeat," which while solid, contained the songs from the EP and only a few new ones, hardly enough to keep excitement going in the city that never sleeps. They disbanded two years later, yet this self-released album showed up in 2006. I'd been looking for it for years, and finally was able to get to listen to it this week. While it lacks the furious impact that the first EP had on me, this is very good indie rock record that really fits the sounds coming out of the city at that time.

 

L.A. Guns - L.A. Guns: When I got my first CD player in 1988, this was the first CD I ever bought, and I still have it. That didn't stop me from snatching up an original vinyl a few months back at a record fair. I've always held firm that other than "Appetite for Destruction," this is the best glam rock album to come out of L.A. in the mid-80's. Given that the bands both bloomed from the same root, Hollywood Rose, it's not surprising that this has the same sleazy attitude as early GNR. Every song on here is top quality and I've thoroughly enjoyed spinning the fuzzy warbles and rocking out.

The Walking Dead Midseason...and the Prison Falls

 

 

By the time Season 4 began in October, The Walking Dead had already established itself as the best show on television with an exceptional third season, and by having Breaking Bad go off the air. But as is typical with this show, it always seems to get off to a sluggish start as they try to establish the set-up for the season's new story. This season was no different as we had to watch Farmer Rick and the jolly settlement in the prison. The season was supposed to show a fresh start for the characters, but as the episodes rolled on, it became clear that in there is no starting over in the world they inhabit.

 

The prison faced a decimating challenge, shattering the peaceful illusion we saw in the first episode. And though there is no fresh start for anyone, we saw the character's go through significant changes. Rick shuns leadership roles, Carol has grown strong, Daryl has become friendly, and Carl has grown literally and figuratively. These changes come into play in interesting ways as they face the crisis of disease within the prison and help shape the course of the future.

 

Even in a half-season, the show chose to divide that into two parts. After the prison crisis concludes, the next few episodes focused on the return of The Governor. We pick up following him after the brutal events that closed out last season. We see this ruthless man whither and change before our eyes, almost to the point where we believe he has changed, just as the other characters have. The Governor finds a new family, a new daughter who replaces Penny, and new reason to live. But old habits are hard to break, and once he feels this new family is in danger, his ruthless instincts return. The prison is the only place that can keep them safe. As a result, the midseason finale was destined to end in a showdown in the making for two seasons.

 

The build-up did not disappoint. In one of the best climatic scenes in television memory, the battle for the prison was epic and surprising. And as is the rule of this world, there were no winners. Major characters were lost, other's missing, and all changed forever. February can't come soon enough.

Weekend Music Roundup

Alright, the Roundup is back on track this week. After weeks of listening to my existing music collection, I've once again entered the world of checking out new sounds. This also marks the beginning of the winter sounds, those haunting and eerie records that I find so enjoyable in the grey, cold days of the coming months. Some of these are new releases, while others are albums from the past few years that I've finally gotten around to hearing. Hopefully there's something for everyone on here. Enjoy.

King Creosote & Jon Hopkins - Diamond Mind: For the past 15 years or so, King Creosote has been releasing his style of indie folk, most of it rarely reaching across the pond to the States. Several years ago I came across one of his albums and was taken in by the sweep of its simplicity and storytelling. He reminds me a lot of Alasdir Roberts (of Appendix Out). This 2011 album is a collaboration with electronic artist Jon Hopkins, who wisely doesn't impose his style on the King, but rather uses subtle textures which add to the musician's sound. A very compelling folk album, perfect for a cloudy Sunday like today.

Maple Bee - Chasing Eva: This 2004 album is the first Melanie Garside album released under the Maple Bee name and was re-released in 2010 with a bonus disc of material. As the bassist for Queenadreena, and sister of that band's iconic singer Katie Jane Garside, it's no surprise that the record has a similar spooky beauty to it. Given that Katie Jane is one of my favorite musicians ever, I was already predisposed to enjoy Melanie's work. Her voice is similar to her sister's, if not quite as babylike, though she sounds less like her on this album than she does on 2008's Home. There's a quiet delicateness to this record that heightens its mood. To me this feels like the record that might be playing in the underground clubs of a place like the City of Lost Children, perhaps that's a product of the Marianne Faithful quality to the songs. This will certainly be getting a lot of play over the winter.

Moonface - Julia with Blue Jeans On: Spencer Krug has been one of my favorite singer/songwriters of the last decade, and pretty much of all time, winning me over with his wealth of wonderful projects (Wolf Parade, Sunset Rubdown, Swan Lake, etc.) This is his fourth release under the Moonface name, used for solo projects. Released last month, this joins the previous releases as another compelling record. This is also the most straightforward Moonface album, and the most reminiscent of Sunset Rubdown. "November 2011" and "Back is Back in Style" are my personal favorites.

Midlake - Antiphon: The Texas indie folk band's fourth album, and first since 2010's The Courage of Others, was finally released in November. This is an album I'd been looking forward to for quite some time, but not without reservations. I knew it was going to difficult to follow the last album, which was a near masterpiece of neo-psychedelic folk. I'm happy to say this album feels like a continuation of its predecessor. The haunting vocals are accompanied by a wash of Pink Floyd rhythms, creating a beautiful sound. Midlake has always been able to stand out among the wave of bands using similar textures and influences, and once again have succeeded in making an outstanding album.

Andrew Bird - I Want to See Pulaski at Night: Released earlier this month, this EP is really basically one long music piece divided into seven parts. Three instrumental tracks proceed and follow the vocal title track. The instrumental tunes are achingly beautiful string numbers featuring Bird's trademark style. The title track is pure chamber folk beauty, once again showing that Andrew Bird is still riding a tide of excellence that began with two outstanding albums released last year. A powerful song that only makes me more anxious for whatever comes next.

Lana Del Rey - Born to Die: Though released last year, I avoided the massive hype that surrounded this record. After reading many mediocre reviews, I was skeptical of this, assuming it to be just another record industry push. Then a few months ago a friend shared "Dark Paradise" on Facebook and I was pretty blown away. I sought out the album immediately and have to say I was super impressed. There is an overwhelming pulse of L.A. cool in the trip hop beats and starlet stories that flow through the tracks. Lana's voice is timelessly hip. At times she reminds me Paloma Faith, and Lilly Allen at other times. "Born to Die," "Off to the Races," and "Dark Paradise" are real standout songs.

Born Death Proof

Yesterday, after Thanksgiving dinner, it was time to settle in front of the television for the traditional evening movie. This year, movie was time was reserved for Death Proof, the Quentin Tarantino grindhouse flick from 2007. After all, what could be more in the spirit or the holiday than a stylish homage to homicidal B-Movie car flicks?

 

I avoided this film in theaters, partly because it was a four hour double feature with Planet Terror, and I just can't sit in a theater that long. Plus, I will admit to thinking it was a little foolish to spend $53 million to make a movie that was supposed to feel like a low budget flick. But that was also when I was feeling a little down on Quentin. I've since rediscovered my appreciation for his brand of crazy and finally got around to catching up on this missed film. Needless to say, it was pretty damn cool.

 

The film featured classic Tarantino character types, slightly off and ultra hip. Kurt Russell was spectacular as Stuntman Mike. His character was reminiscent Quentin characters from his Natural Born Killers script, both charismatic and dangerous. The girls he pursues felt straight out of his 90's cool period. In fact, much of their dialogue would have felt at home in Pulp Fiction or Jackie Brown. There were no dull lines, or even dull moments in the film.

 

As for the concerns that kept me away from it in the theaters, I couldn't have been more wrong to worry about them. The editing was an art form in its own, creating that B-Movie feel in an exciting and stylish way that never felt haphazard. But naturally the highlight of the film was the muscle car adrenaline. In a lot of ways, this is last of the original Tarantino films, before he went on to tackle more serious subject matter in Inglourious Basterds and Django Unchained. This film definitely doesn't have the same kind of impact as his more celebrated films, but it certainly is a joyride and one I'm glad I finally went on.

Feeling Thankful

This Thanksgiving has taken on a different meaning for me this year. The importance of this day is not always what it seems. It's not about ritual traditions or the family dinners. It's not even really a celebration as much as it's a time for reflection. It's about finding something within you to be thankful for even when, on the outside, it may appear there is little to rejoice. Lately I've come to a new perspective on life, finding joy in unexpected places and allowing it to carry me through whatever darkness may linger. I hope everyone takes the time to find moments to appreciate and let them light the way.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

We Will Miss You Barbara Park

One the most remarkable modern voices in children's literature passed away this weekend. Barbara Park was the author of dozens of picture books and middle grade novels, before making the leap to immortality with the creation of Junie B. Jones, everyone's favorite kindergartner. With 28 titles, and over 50 million copies sold, it remains one of the most popular series of all time for elementary school age kids. But at the age of 66, the voice behind this hilarious character has fallen silent.

 

On my Goodreads author page, I list Junie B. as one of my "influences" and for good reason. I first read Junie back in 1999, and was hooked from the first page. Before that, I had never considered, or even thought about writing chapter books. The series inspired me in a way that few books have. It opened my eyes to the idea of capturing the humor that comes naturally to kids. I owe my ability to find the child's voice within me to Barbara Park.

 

It's always sad when a storyteller is taken from us, but there's a comfort in knowing their spirit lives on in the stories they've left behind. Barbara will forever be with us, and will forever be entertaining children through one unforgettable character.

 

 

I'll leave off by sharing one the funniest things ever written, which can be found in Junie B. Jones is a Graduation Girl as Junie helps with her class graduation poem:

"Roses are Red, 

Violets are Blue,

Graduation is Here,

And Your Feet Smell Like Stink"

Weekend Music Roundup (Throwback Edition)

I haven't been listening to any new music during the past few weeks for a number of reasons. The main reason is due to feeling a bit overwhelmed trying to digest everything. I also decided to reorganize my CD collection, and while doing so, I discovered a bunch of albums that I hadn't heard in a long time. Recently, I've been pulling some of those out and spending time reconnecting. So this week, I've chosen to share some of those albums with all of you. Enjoy.

The Cure - Standing on a Beach: I bought this CD when I was Sophomore in High School and couldn't afford to purchase the band's entire catalog. I've since acquired most of their work, and thus abandoned this Greatest Hits album. But when looking for something to listen to in the car the other day, I figured this might be perfect, and indeed it was. Chronicling the band's early work, pre-1986, it features some of their best songs. Dreamy post punk at its best.

Queenadreena - Live at the ICA: The only live record from one of my favorite bands of the last decade, born from the ashes of one of my favorite bands of the previous decade (Daisy Chainsaw). Recorded shortly after the release of their masterful The Butcher and the Butterfly album, the performance captures the explosive genius of the songs, and it's exceptionally well recorded for a live record. As always, KatieJane's in your face brilliance shines through.

Rob Zombie -Educated Horses: Recorded around the same time he was making The Devil's Rejects, this was a bit of a comeback album for the Pentagram Peter Pan. This is hillbilly metal that flat out rocks. I loved this record when it came out, but not having listened to it for a few years, I fell in love all over again. There are sinister tracks like "17 Year Locust," "Let it all Bleed Out," mixed with more digestible rock like "Death of it All," Foxy Foxy." There isn't really a bad track on here.

O'Death- Head Home: One of my favorite albums of 2006, this gem has been overshadowed in the past few years due to two spectacular follow-up records since. But this album hasn't lost any of its impact, and I've once again become obsessed. They've referred to their music as "death folk" and while that's an accurate description, there is also a spiritual quality to their songs. From "Down to Rest," to "Only Daughter," and "Jesus Look Down," this album is spectacular through and through.

Midlake - The Trials of Van Occupanther: The second album from the Texas folk band was another standout from 2006. One of the early bands to embrace the new indie folk movement, their songs show an incredible depth. This album has the feel of something out of time, with an eerie sound of the dark woods. Wonderful stuff and I can't wait to hear their fourth album that was just released.

 

Okkervil River - The Stage Names: Another Texas folk band, this 2007 album is one of their best and was a breakout album for their career. The songs read like stories, with sadness, humor, and great breadth. The album also includes one of my favorite songs of the all time, "Plus Ones" which never fails to choke me up a little bit.

Cocoon - All My Friends Died in a Plane Crash- The 2007 debut from the French indie folk duo is outright remarkable. As the title suggests, there is a sadness the lingers throughout this record and it's quite beautiful. "Vultures," "Owls," and "On My Way" are among the many outstanding tracks. Definitely one that's not to be missed.

Alamo Race Track - Black Cat Tom Brown: The second album from the Amsterdam based indie band is another favorite of mine from 2006. I bought this during the time I was working on CatKid because the cover was sort of irresistible. The album turned out to be just as irresistible. The title track opens the album with a strikingly simple folk song that hooks you right in. "The Northern Territory" is probably the best song on the album, but every song is pretty darn good.

 

Sun Kil Moon - Ghosts of the Great Highway: The 2003 debut album from the band risen from the ashes of Red House Painters, the influential '90's slowcore band from San Fran. In many ways it feels like a continuation, keeping the same sleeping folk feel of the previous band. This is one of those great morning or evening albums, or anytime for quiet self-reflection. I've been listening to it a lot while painting and it's been quite inspiring.

 

 

Murder by Death - Who Will Survive, and What Will be Left of Them?: The 2003 breakthrough from Indiana's gothic country band was long overdue for a fresh listen. Storytelling is at the heart of this record. From "Killbot 2000" about an elementary school massacre, to "Thee Men Hanging," the songs visit these tragic situations with horror and empathy, and the emotion the shows through is what makes this record so wonderful.