The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2014
After over 1.3 million votes cast by fans, and the final selection process having taken place, the Rock and Roll HOF will induct 6 new members in April of 2014. (not including two individuals and one backing band) This year’s nominee list was stellar, and provided some good debate amongst fans young and old. While no election is ever “perfect”, in this guy’s humble opinion, the committee got it mostly right. For the acts that fell short this year, I am pretty confident that most (if not all) will get in as the years pass. A quick look at two omissions that stood out:
YES
When the nominations first came out, I honestly thought Jon Anderson and the boys were a lock. Prog Rock is not overly represented in the Hall, and my thought was that pioneers in this genre would waltz in. I was mistaken. There is no doubt in my mind their time will come. No band in the 80’s had a greater resurgence / introduction to the mainstream than Yes. “Owner Of A Lonely Heart” would be on any short list of “Songs of the Decade”. The follow up to 90125, Big Generator, is an under-rated classic as well.
The Replacements
I am an unabashed fan boy of the Replacements. “Within Your Reach” still moves me every time, “Alex Chilton” is 3 minutes of pure bliss, and “I’ll Be You” represents commercial success. However, I am not sure if they truly deserved to go in first ballot. Influential? Absolutely, many an “alternative” band in the 90s cited them as influences. I think the lack of TRUE commercial breakout will always be a hindrance in the minds of the voters. Plus, there is this….the unreal ego in regards to their place in music. Case in point: 1989, Tom Petty is riding very high on the release of Full Moon Fever, and picks the Replacements as the opening act for the tour. When the CT date is announced, myself and about 10 friends get tickets for the show. I, slightly leaning towards indy/alternative at this point, start hyping up the opening band to my friends. Really laying it on thick. The night of the show, we are having a blast in the lead up. (in fact, a couple of us had a good 15 minute chat with Heartbreakers drummer Stan Lynch as he anonymously wandered through the crowd) The Replacements come out, and I MAY be one of three people cheering loud. And before launching into a pretty bad version of “Talent Show” to kick it off, Westerberg takes the mike to say “The Stones are launching their World Tour tonight….don’t worry, we’re better”…..and ten sets of eyes whipped around to catch mine, my friends saying “Really? Who the Eff does this guy think he is?” And in hindsight, they were right (hell, at the time I knew they were right) I love brash from a front man, I love a bit of ego in music. But, to me, Paul has always over rated the bands historical footprint. I hope they get in eventually, but not for a while.
So who did get in? Here we go….
Cat Stevens
I am not going to spend a lot of time here, as I am not a fan in the least. To say this is an incredibly controversial selection, not based on his music, but his politics following his disappearance from the music landscape, is an understatement. It’s almost akin to the steroid users and the baseball HOF. Does one “wrong” thing…..should it keep them out? I would say in the case of Stevens, yes. If I had a vote, his name would not have sniffed my ballot. Is he talented? Sure. Do I respect the music? Absolutely. But his life after leaving the scene leaves me shaking my head as to why he was elected. He won’t show up for the ceremony, that’s for sure….
Linda Ronstadt
I love this selection. Let me take you back to 1976…..a VERY young blogger is gifted money, and is allowed to buy his first 45 single. After browsing the record shop, I decided that the name of the song, “You’re No Good”, sounded really cool. (I was 5, come on….) I got home, ran to my room, and plopped it on my Fisher Price turntable. And what emanated, was something I was not familiar with. A STRONG female lead, over a very rock oriented song. I moved the needle back to the beginning, over and over, even inviting my father (who knows music about as much as I know neurosurgery) to listen to this incredible song. (I still have the image of him lying in the hallway in front of my door) Conservatively, I would say I listened to it 1000 times in the first week. (its only competition was a hand me down 45 of Rhinestone Cowboy….soooooo…..) I was hooked. The voice (now, looking back…..again, I was FIVE) sultry and smoldering. The music, nothing over the top, but tight and solid. She went on to continue an amazing career, before illness denied her (and audiences) the opportunity to continue. I know she is on record as saying that she doesn’t really care either way about the induction. While that may be true, I have to believe that MAY change on the night of April the 10th. The ovation she receives (if she is able to take the stage) will be overwhelming, and one I am excited to be part of.
Hall and Oates
This is a no brainer, has been for a while. For the detractors, look, I get it. Make fun of the mullets. Make John Oates jokes about being a hanger on. (trust me, he is an ESSENTIAL part of this combo, it’s more 50/50 than MTV led you to believe) Make the “whimp rock” slights…..here’s the thing…..take a look at this list of songs:
Rich Girl
Private Eyes
Kiss On My List
You Make My Dreams
Everytime You Go Away
Maneater
One on One
I Can’t Go For That
Say It Isn’t So
Adult Education
Out Of Touch
Really? There is a debate here? That is the ’27 Yankees of music’s greatest hits. To continue the baseball analogy: their prime, from 1980 through late 1984, is Koufax-like. An incredible peak. Seriously, go read that list again. There is a very small chance that you read any of those titles without instinctively starting to sing EVERY WORD.
KISS
This one was a bit of a shock to me….how the hell were they not already in? Take a moment….let that sink in….if you are a child of the 70s, that had a KISS lunchbox, that waited for WEEKS for “Kiss Meets The Phantom Of The Park” to debut on TV, that painted their face for at least ONE Halloween….what? They’re not already in?
Cartoon aspect of the band aside, and I get that people “hate” that image; this is a band that has produced influential music for 25 years. (save for a period where it really went off the rails) I had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Gene and Paul back in 1992, and met two guys that, for all of the pageantry, REALLY understood what they meant to the music atmosphere. Where “You’re No Good” was the first 45 I purchased, Destroyer from KISS was the first LP I ever dropped my own cash on. I saved and saved, excited to actually buy a full length record. And, in my mind, there was no other choice BUT Destroyer. (I now own a re-release vinyl edition as well) “Shout It Out Loud”, “God Of Thunder”, “Detroit Rock City”…etc….ALL anthems in their own right. (Not to mention “Beth”, the real “hit” of the bunch) This record, their third, hit every note perfectly. Even the “throw away” songs were so well crafted. And, this is just one record we are talking about. They changed their sound SLIGHTLY for the masses when need be, (“I Was Made For Loving You”) they released 4 solo albums at the same time, (producing arguably the best NYC anthem, “Back In The New York Groove” from Ace’s project) and then they took the make-up off. Has Gene become SOMEWHAT of a caricature recently? Maybe. But this is a band that inspired hundreds of hard rock bands over the past 3 decades, and one that deserves its name in lights.
Nirvana
Probably the most debated/hated election since the opening of the HOF. Here is what people are saying:
“They only put out 2 (and a half-ish) records”. Yup, got it…..
“They were only a relevant band for about 3 years”. Uh huh, I hear ya…
“Pure sympathy! If Cobain never died, they would have faded away, and no one would care if they made it or not”. Sure, hard to say, but I understand your logic…..
So, really, I have read that, I understand it, I don’t begrudge the people who think that way.
But here is my counter-argument: they recorded and released the single most important record in the last 25 years. (let it sink in……)
(……….)
(are you still with me?)
Let me clarify if you are still reading; I am in no means saying it is the BEST record in the last 25 years. I can name at least 15 better off the top of my head right now. But, as far as historical purposes, Nevermind changed rock music when there was a desperate need for a change. Throughout the 80s, save for the infusion of “Appetite For Destruction”, rock music was divided into two pretty lame camps. One: The aging bands of the 70s, turning out the same music time and time again. (seriously, without knowing the songs, could you tell the difference between Foreigner, Styx, Supertramp…etc..etc..) The other side? Hair Metal. Bands that had a “look” but also knew three chords, eating up the MTV landscape, producing somewhat uninspired “rock”. Cue three guys from Seattle, driving down to California, to the now-semi-famous Sound City recording studio, to be guided for 18 days by Butch Vig…..producing a sound that NO one outside of Washington was neither familiar with, nor ready for. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” took the music world by storm, changing nearly everyone’s perspective as to “what was cool”. The anger, the angst, (the video) the passion. Four simple chords…but from a guy that looked like the nerd next door, NOT the “beautiful guy” with more make-up then Jennifer Marlowe. (I FINALLY got a WKRP reference in….yea me!) It changed EVERYTHING. Suddenly, Seattle was the “IT” place. Bands like Screaming Trees, Mudhoney…et al, were getting airplay. Nirvana was EVERYWHERE, and putting on a show every single time. And as the record got more play, the shows became louder, the audiences larger, and the atmosphere around them bigger. For a period in time, it was Nirvana…..and everyone else. For that, and that alone, the nomination and subsequent election is warranted. However, there is a bit more…
In Utero, the studio follow up to Nevermind, while not sharing the same commercial success, is an incredible piece of art, one that was Cobain baring his soul to the world.
Nirvana became the original “poster band” for a fledgling MTV endeavor called “Unplugged”. While they stripped down their own “hits”, the most memorable moment of the show, was an incredible, inspired version of David Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold The World”. (still a top 3 song from the entire series)
They released a collection of b-sides, Insecticide, that could easily have been a tremendous “3rd” record in the catalogue if no one knew it was outtakes from the previous two recordings.
Sub-Pop (their original label) has re-released “Bleach” a couple different times now, with fans EATING IT UP, as the genius was clearly there prior to recording “Nevermind”.
This doesn’t even take into account that the unfortunate demise of the band, spawned arguably America’s NEXT great rock band in Foo Fighters. (don’t be surprised for a second, if Grohl is inducted again in his lifetime)
I’m not saying I am right. I am not saying this is gospel. All I am saying, as someone who was in his formative music years (college) when it all happened, that I have NO quibbles with this “first ballot HOF” election.
I am going to leave Peter Gabriel for his own piece, as I can’t do my fandom justice in a smaller capsule.
Thanks for the read…..
Friday, January 3, 2014
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Quick Questions for Steven Mandel - Producer/Engineer For Elvis Costello and the Roots
When I was finishing up the Top 12 Records of 2013 series, I reached out to Steven Mandel(@stevenmandel) to get a few thoughts about MY #1 album of the year, Wise Up Ghost. Steven produced, engineered and mixed the album, as well as lending his song writing skills. He was gracious enough to take the time to respond to the quick email with some very insightful thoughts.
- Was there any particular track that was hard to have come together?
The track that was hard to come together was the first one we worked on and ended up as a bonus track. Can You HEAR Me. We almost had Crosby & Nash doing the backgrounds but in the end it was Elvis and Kirk. They never sat right so in the mix stage I really had to buckle down and move them around so they would feel right. This was the track I worked on the longest I believe, partly because it's over 6 minutes. With lots of vocal parts and horn parts.The climactic ending alone took me a virtual lifetime to be "satisfied" with.
- Do you have a favorite track? One that when completed, you knew you had something special?
My favorite track is Grenade. Felt I had helped create a Costello track that was both unique and also something his fans would understand. But the title track is something, when completed, I knew would be on Elvis Costello Compilations til the end of time.
- My favorite track is the title song. The callback to the North album is brilliant. (and made me audibly gasp when I heard the melody come up) How did this song come together?
-Wise Up Ghost started when, after we began work on the album, I realized I should explore some of Elvis's albums I wasn't an expert on, like North. Heard the intro to Can You Be True while driving from NY to Philly. Upon arriving in Philly at 2am or so, went straight to the studio to loop it. Had to continue the next day and was able to find a good way to loop it a certain way that made sense for a new song. Added some fx and sent it to Elvis. He immediately wrote those lyrics and then we recorded the vocals in Vancouver shortly thereafter. Drums, horns, bass, guitars all came later in NY and Philly. Theres 2 passes of drums, one in the left channel and one in the right. Both are live passes, in other words, not looped. In fact, besides the North loop, all the instruments are live full passes.
- Is there a second record on the horizon?
There is no 2nd EC & Roots on the horizon. But I hope to continue pairing up EC and Quest. Perhaps for an album of some sort.
- Was there any particular track that was hard to have come together?
The track that was hard to come together was the first one we worked on and ended up as a bonus track. Can You HEAR Me. We almost had Crosby & Nash doing the backgrounds but in the end it was Elvis and Kirk. They never sat right so in the mix stage I really had to buckle down and move them around so they would feel right. This was the track I worked on the longest I believe, partly because it's over 6 minutes. With lots of vocal parts and horn parts.The climactic ending alone took me a virtual lifetime to be "satisfied" with.
- Do you have a favorite track? One that when completed, you knew you had something special?
My favorite track is Grenade. Felt I had helped create a Costello track that was both unique and also something his fans would understand. But the title track is something, when completed, I knew would be on Elvis Costello Compilations til the end of time.
- My favorite track is the title song. The callback to the North album is brilliant. (and made me audibly gasp when I heard the melody come up) How did this song come together?
-Wise Up Ghost started when, after we began work on the album, I realized I should explore some of Elvis's albums I wasn't an expert on, like North. Heard the intro to Can You Be True while driving from NY to Philly. Upon arriving in Philly at 2am or so, went straight to the studio to loop it. Had to continue the next day and was able to find a good way to loop it a certain way that made sense for a new song. Added some fx and sent it to Elvis. He immediately wrote those lyrics and then we recorded the vocals in Vancouver shortly thereafter. Drums, horns, bass, guitars all came later in NY and Philly. Theres 2 passes of drums, one in the left channel and one in the right. Both are live passes, in other words, not looped. In fact, besides the North loop, all the instruments are live full passes.
- Is there a second record on the horizon?
There is no 2nd EC & Roots on the horizon. But I hope to continue pairing up EC and Quest. Perhaps for an album of some sort.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
The BEST of 2013 #2 and #1
The BEST of 2013 - #2-1
We finally have made it to the end of the countdown. In what has been a tremendous year in music, it comes down to the final two. The separation between number 1 and 2 is microscopic, to the point where I have flipped flopped them at least a dozen times. (By comparison, The Lonely Forest, while a tremendous record, was not even in consideration for top 2 status)
In case you missed any of the countdown here is:
#12-9
#8-5
#4-3
Without further delay, the final two….
Number 2
NIN – Hesitation Marks
In early 2009, Trent Reznor announced to the world that NIN was taking a break. There was no timetable given, not a lot of reason either, but in his eyes, it was time to shut it down for a while. So, following the tour in 2009, Trent put his energy and creativity into other projects. First, came the project with his wife entitled “How To Destroy Angels”. Also, Trent teamed up with Atticus Ross to record two BRILLIANT scores for David Fincher films, The Social Network and The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. (the former for which he received a Golden Globe and an Oscar) Just when you could start thinking, with all of this success, that NIN might be retired forever, Trent took a left turn and announced that the first Nine Inch Nails record in 5 years would be released in 2013. Expectations were of course, very high, and luckily for the listener, not only met, but leapt over in a free and easy swoop. Reznor has always been a master at mixing the electronic with the “raw” in music. Ahead of his time with the use of technology, while still allowing the sonic entities to remain pure. Hesitation Marks hits top speed from the get go, with the brilliant lead off track “Copy Of A”. One of Reznor’s unique abilities, it to write a lyric that may seem so simple at first listen, but gains more depth the more you hear it/think about it. The album continues at warp speed with “Came Back Haunted”, another gem. It closes out side 1 (for the vinyl consumers) with the beautiful “Find My Way”. In the space of three songs, the landscape is set, from pounding pulse to minimalist airiness. The rest of the album flows in the same vein, moving from up tempo to slower songs with ease. The time off from “the band” did nothing but fuel Trent to put out his best effort since The Fragile, one that in most years would top this list.
Key Tracks – Copy Of A, Came Back Haunted, Everything, Running, While I’m Still Here
Number 1
Elvis Costello and The Roots – Wise Up Ghost
Over the span of his 3+ decade career, Elvis Costello has become one of music’s ultimate chameleons. His collaborative efforts have included writing/recording with Sir Paul McCartney, (including the hits, “Veronica” for Elvis and “My Brave Face” for Paul) Allen Toussaint and Burt Bacharach to name a few. So, in hearing of this effort at the beginning of 2013, it was met by a slight head tilt and a “huh”. I have the ultimate respect for Questlove and the Roots as musicians, as they really have a wonderful way of adapting styles….but a record with Elvis? I was curious to hear the results, and anxiously anticipated the record. Within the first 30 seconds of hearing “Walk Us Uptown”, I was sold that this was going to be magical. 12 perfectly executed tracks, each one building on the previous, with Elvis’ voice in top form, and a backing band taking him wherever he needs to go.
There is a “part 2” to this capsule, a quick hit email interview with the producer of the record, Steven Mandel, that will be posted as an addendum, as he has been busy the past couple of days to get back to me. Be on the lookout!
Key Tracks – Wise Up Ghost, If I Could Believe, Walk Us Uptown, Come The Meantimes
We finally have made it to the end of the countdown. In what has been a tremendous year in music, it comes down to the final two. The separation between number 1 and 2 is microscopic, to the point where I have flipped flopped them at least a dozen times. (By comparison, The Lonely Forest, while a tremendous record, was not even in consideration for top 2 status)
In case you missed any of the countdown here is:
#12-9
#8-5
#4-3
Without further delay, the final two….
Number 2
NIN – Hesitation Marks
In early 2009, Trent Reznor announced to the world that NIN was taking a break. There was no timetable given, not a lot of reason either, but in his eyes, it was time to shut it down for a while. So, following the tour in 2009, Trent put his energy and creativity into other projects. First, came the project with his wife entitled “How To Destroy Angels”. Also, Trent teamed up with Atticus Ross to record two BRILLIANT scores for David Fincher films, The Social Network and The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. (the former for which he received a Golden Globe and an Oscar) Just when you could start thinking, with all of this success, that NIN might be retired forever, Trent took a left turn and announced that the first Nine Inch Nails record in 5 years would be released in 2013. Expectations were of course, very high, and luckily for the listener, not only met, but leapt over in a free and easy swoop. Reznor has always been a master at mixing the electronic with the “raw” in music. Ahead of his time with the use of technology, while still allowing the sonic entities to remain pure. Hesitation Marks hits top speed from the get go, with the brilliant lead off track “Copy Of A”. One of Reznor’s unique abilities, it to write a lyric that may seem so simple at first listen, but gains more depth the more you hear it/think about it. The album continues at warp speed with “Came Back Haunted”, another gem. It closes out side 1 (for the vinyl consumers) with the beautiful “Find My Way”. In the space of three songs, the landscape is set, from pounding pulse to minimalist airiness. The rest of the album flows in the same vein, moving from up tempo to slower songs with ease. The time off from “the band” did nothing but fuel Trent to put out his best effort since The Fragile, one that in most years would top this list.
Key Tracks – Copy Of A, Came Back Haunted, Everything, Running, While I’m Still Here
Number 1
Elvis Costello and The Roots – Wise Up Ghost
Over the span of his 3+ decade career, Elvis Costello has become one of music’s ultimate chameleons. His collaborative efforts have included writing/recording with Sir Paul McCartney, (including the hits, “Veronica” for Elvis and “My Brave Face” for Paul) Allen Toussaint and Burt Bacharach to name a few. So, in hearing of this effort at the beginning of 2013, it was met by a slight head tilt and a “huh”. I have the ultimate respect for Questlove and the Roots as musicians, as they really have a wonderful way of adapting styles….but a record with Elvis? I was curious to hear the results, and anxiously anticipated the record. Within the first 30 seconds of hearing “Walk Us Uptown”, I was sold that this was going to be magical. 12 perfectly executed tracks, each one building on the previous, with Elvis’ voice in top form, and a backing band taking him wherever he needs to go.
There is a “part 2” to this capsule, a quick hit email interview with the producer of the record, Steven Mandel, that will be posted as an addendum, as he has been busy the past couple of days to get back to me. Be on the lookout!
Key Tracks – Wise Up Ghost, If I Could Believe, Walk Us Uptown, Come The Meantimes
Friday, December 27, 2013
The BEST of 2013 - #4 and #3
Number 4
Stereophonics – Graffiti On The Train
In 2001, Stereophonics took the UK by storm, releasing one of the best albums of that year (or the decade for that matter) Just Enough Education To Perform. It featured some great songwriting, incredible music, and the unmistakable voice of Kelly Jones. When I first heard it, I was onboard with the possibility of a HUGE breakout. The next two records moved the needle a bit, but not to the point I thought it would. Then in 2007 and 2009, they released two records that for lack of better term are better left forgotten. Many (including myself) wrote Stereophonics off, thinking it was time to pack it in. Thankfully, the band knew better than us. Graffiti On The Train is a TREMENDOUS comeback, the kind of record that feels like they are saying “Oh yeah? We’re done? Here you go….”. Jones, one of the best voices in rock music, is at his growling finest, as the lead track, “We Share The Same Sun”, sets the tone for the entire record. The title track follows, taking the tempo down, but not the energy. And as every song envelops the room as the record plays, you take notice that no two sound anything alike, nor like anything they have done up to this point. This record is a triumph, a true front to back experience, and one that gets me excited for whatever comes next….just like 2001 all over again.
Key Tracks – We Share The Same Sun, Graffiti On The Train, Indian Summer, Roll The Dice
Number 3
The Lonely Forest – Adding Up The Wasted Hours
Do you remember the early 90s? Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Soundgarden, Screaming Trees….etc..etc… Collectively known as the “Seattle Sound”. I think in 2013, we may have stumbled upon this version 2.0. Maybe not Seattle, per se, but Pacific Northwest. I give you The Lonely Forest. At first listen, they MAY sound like a Death Cab “rip off”….but as you dig deeper, you hear layers of soul that are their own, and expressed in a much different way than Ben, Walla and the rest of DCFC would express. (it should be noted, that this record is their debut on Walla’s Trans-Record label) This was the last record to fall into my hands before finalizing the list, and as I tweeted at the time, as I THOUGHT the top 12 was locked, “they may have blown up the top 3”. Front to back, this is an album of pure joy. “Pull The Pin” sets the tone from the start, with it’s very staccato syncopation before launching into anthem like strains, “Neon Never Changes” turns the car left down a trippy-ish road, and then “Lavender Dress” (which on its own, may seem like a throw away song) segues perfectly into one of the best songs of the year, “Warm/Happy”. There is nothing like the pure joy of “discovering” an artist that .001% of the population may know, RIGHT before the height of their perceived super powers are launched to the mainstream. This record is a run, don’t walk, situation.
Key Tracks: Warm/Happy, Pull The Pin, Fire Breather, Left Hand Man
Stereophonics – Graffiti On The Train
In 2001, Stereophonics took the UK by storm, releasing one of the best albums of that year (or the decade for that matter) Just Enough Education To Perform. It featured some great songwriting, incredible music, and the unmistakable voice of Kelly Jones. When I first heard it, I was onboard with the possibility of a HUGE breakout. The next two records moved the needle a bit, but not to the point I thought it would. Then in 2007 and 2009, they released two records that for lack of better term are better left forgotten. Many (including myself) wrote Stereophonics off, thinking it was time to pack it in. Thankfully, the band knew better than us. Graffiti On The Train is a TREMENDOUS comeback, the kind of record that feels like they are saying “Oh yeah? We’re done? Here you go….”. Jones, one of the best voices in rock music, is at his growling finest, as the lead track, “We Share The Same Sun”, sets the tone for the entire record. The title track follows, taking the tempo down, but not the energy. And as every song envelops the room as the record plays, you take notice that no two sound anything alike, nor like anything they have done up to this point. This record is a triumph, a true front to back experience, and one that gets me excited for whatever comes next….just like 2001 all over again.
Key Tracks – We Share The Same Sun, Graffiti On The Train, Indian Summer, Roll The Dice
Number 3
The Lonely Forest – Adding Up The Wasted Hours
Do you remember the early 90s? Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Soundgarden, Screaming Trees….etc..etc… Collectively known as the “Seattle Sound”. I think in 2013, we may have stumbled upon this version 2.0. Maybe not Seattle, per se, but Pacific Northwest. I give you The Lonely Forest. At first listen, they MAY sound like a Death Cab “rip off”….but as you dig deeper, you hear layers of soul that are their own, and expressed in a much different way than Ben, Walla and the rest of DCFC would express. (it should be noted, that this record is their debut on Walla’s Trans-Record label) This was the last record to fall into my hands before finalizing the list, and as I tweeted at the time, as I THOUGHT the top 12 was locked, “they may have blown up the top 3”. Front to back, this is an album of pure joy. “Pull The Pin” sets the tone from the start, with it’s very staccato syncopation before launching into anthem like strains, “Neon Never Changes” turns the car left down a trippy-ish road, and then “Lavender Dress” (which on its own, may seem like a throw away song) segues perfectly into one of the best songs of the year, “Warm/Happy”. There is nothing like the pure joy of “discovering” an artist that .001% of the population may know, RIGHT before the height of their perceived super powers are launched to the mainstream. This record is a run, don’t walk, situation.
Key Tracks: Warm/Happy, Pull The Pin, Fire Breather, Left Hand Man
Songs from records that didnt make the Top 12
A Look At Songs From Records That Didn’t Make The Top 12
As noted a few weeks ago, this year was incredible for new releases in music. My normal top 10 list expanded to 12 (could have easily been top 15), and even the records I did not like as a whole produced some tremendous songs. So, before I reveal the remaining top 4 albums of the year, a look at some of the other tunes that struck a chord.
Panic At The Disco – This Is Gospel
I Can Make A Mess – Lions
Superchunk –Me & You & Jackie Mittoo
Atoms For Peace – Ingenue
The National – Sea Of Love
The Appleseed Cast – Cathedral Rings
The Head And The Heart – Another Story
Balance And Composure – Reflection
As noted a few weeks ago, this year was incredible for new releases in music. My normal top 10 list expanded to 12 (could have easily been top 15), and even the records I did not like as a whole produced some tremendous songs. So, before I reveal the remaining top 4 albums of the year, a look at some of the other tunes that struck a chord.
Panic At The Disco – This Is Gospel
I Can Make A Mess – Lions
Superchunk –Me & You & Jackie Mittoo
Atoms For Peace – Ingenue
The National – Sea Of Love
The Appleseed Cast – Cathedral Rings
The Head And The Heart – Another Story
Balance And Composure – Reflection
Thursday, December 26, 2013
The BEST of 2013. #8-5
The Top Records of 2013: #8-5
Welcome back to the countdown. If you missed #12-9, scroll down to the previous post before (or after) reading this.
And now, let’s get to it. My favorite albums of the year, continuing with #8-5. Remember the simple rules:
No Best Of
No Live
No Comps
Number 8
Minor Alps – Get There
There have been a few nice male/female vocal collaborations this year, including Mathew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs offering their third edition of Under the Covers and Billie Joe and Norah Jones covering the Everly Brothers. While those were both very good in their own right, they were pale in comparison to this stunning debut from Mathew Caws (of Nada Surf fame) and Juliana Hatfield. Both have put out great albums apart from each other in the past, however, at the risk of hyperbole, it’s as if those paths were leading to this. Their voices separate are wonderful….together it is sublime. There is nothing too complicated with the music on the album, it is the soaring harmonies that take the songs to a tremendous level. The first single, “I Don’t Know What To Do With My Hands”, is a bit of a misnomer for the breath of the record. While both can “rock out” with the best of them, the quieter moments of this album are what make it what it is. Tracks like “If I Wanted Trouble” and “Waiting For You” showcase the duo’s pop sensibilities without raising the distortion level to 11. A fantastic debut from two veteran rockers.
Key Tracks – If I Wanted Trouble, Wish You Were Upstairs, Buried Plans
Number 7
Koji – Crooked In My Mind
More than anything, this album represents a wonderful throwback in time. Back where having a relationship with a record store, led to you getting suggestions on music you may not have heard if not for that. Because of the relationship I have with the people at my favorite shop, this incredible debut record fell into my hands. Based on my purchase history, tastes, and conversations we had, “my guy” recommended this record, and I am incredibly happy he did. Backed by a tight rhythm section, singer/songwriter Andrew Koji Shiraki delivers not only stark vocals, but some really great chord progressions throughout the entire record. It starts right off the bat with “Chasing A Ghost”, a wonderfully constructed three and a half minutes of longing and angst. And as you progress through the record, you quickly find out, this is a guy with something to say. His voice has the perfect blend of smooth and growl, which pushes the songs to new heights. This is one guy to keep an eye on for the future.
Key Tracks – Chasing A Ghost, Distance/Divide, What You Leave Behind
Number 6
Gary Numan – Splinter
Yes, the guy that did this…….
There is a reason I use the NIN/Numan clip to remind you of who he is. Trent Reznor has been on record saying that Numan was an influence on Nine Inch Nails….and it seems with this record, Numan has returned the reverential favor. I was struggling with this capsule, as I was having a hard time articulating “why” this record rates so high. When I brought that up to a very good friend, we both thought at the same time “it’s haunting”. (and she has never heard it….she just knew) This is a record of introspection, pain and suffering. A record that is needed to be heard as a whole to understand the true beauty of it. A record that gets better with every listen. It’s dark, it is broken….and it gets the listener BEGGING for a happy ending. It’s not there to be had, and that may be, in part, the genius of it. Numan, in the space of 12 aching tracks, takes the listener on a journey into his world and more importantly, into his psyche and soul. While he has continued to release music over the past years, this was the first record since “Cars” that has really moved the needle in the US. Truly, long overdue.
Key Tracks – (going to defer to the review and say that taking individual tracks out does not do this record justice)
Number 5
Cumulus – I Never Meant It To Be Like This
How to start a capsule on the best debut record of 2013? How’s this for polished: When talking about the record on the FABULOUS Air-Raid podcast, (seriously, go subscribe to it now, it’s fantastic) Chris Walla, head of Trans-Records said, when referring to the day he signed Cumulus to the label (and I’m paraphrasing) “It was the only record I can remember being brought to us that we didn’t touch before releasing, it was perfect as it was”. THAT is pretty high praise. Cumulus, prior to becoming a true band, was the work of Alexandra Niedzialkowski, a wonderful singer from outside of Seattle. Influenced by strong women from her youth listening to music, Alex started to put together a catalogue of original songs that grew in stature with every time she played out. Enter her childhood friend Lance Umble and bassist Leah Julius. Cumulus went from confessions of one woman, to a band with a plan. The sound and feel of the band brings me back to early 90’s women-led alt-rock acts, especially the Sundays. In fact, I sent an email to Alex to tell her how much I loved the record, and how much she reminded me of Harriet Wheeler, she indicated she had never really listened to them. (which, to me, was just great, as it took away the aspect of “copying a sound”) All of those comparisons aside, this is just a fantastic piece of art. From the opener, the flirty, popped-up “Do You Remember”, all the way to the end and “Night Swimming” (NOT a cover of the R.E.M. classic….but pretty damn near as good), the record takes the listener on a sonic voyage. Alex’s voice, filled with strength AND lilt, is as good as it gets. She hit’s every note, every word, every phrase with meaning and purpose. This was absolutely one of the biggest surprises of the year for me, and a record I can’t stop putting back onto the turntable.
Key Tracks – Do You Remember, Ocean Song, Morning Coffee, Night Swimming
Welcome back to the countdown. If you missed #12-9, scroll down to the previous post before (or after) reading this.
And now, let’s get to it. My favorite albums of the year, continuing with #8-5. Remember the simple rules:
No Best Of
No Live
No Comps
Number 8
Minor Alps – Get There
There have been a few nice male/female vocal collaborations this year, including Mathew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs offering their third edition of Under the Covers and Billie Joe and Norah Jones covering the Everly Brothers. While those were both very good in their own right, they were pale in comparison to this stunning debut from Mathew Caws (of Nada Surf fame) and Juliana Hatfield. Both have put out great albums apart from each other in the past, however, at the risk of hyperbole, it’s as if those paths were leading to this. Their voices separate are wonderful….together it is sublime. There is nothing too complicated with the music on the album, it is the soaring harmonies that take the songs to a tremendous level. The first single, “I Don’t Know What To Do With My Hands”, is a bit of a misnomer for the breath of the record. While both can “rock out” with the best of them, the quieter moments of this album are what make it what it is. Tracks like “If I Wanted Trouble” and “Waiting For You” showcase the duo’s pop sensibilities without raising the distortion level to 11. A fantastic debut from two veteran rockers.
Key Tracks – If I Wanted Trouble, Wish You Were Upstairs, Buried Plans
Number 7
Koji – Crooked In My Mind
More than anything, this album represents a wonderful throwback in time. Back where having a relationship with a record store, led to you getting suggestions on music you may not have heard if not for that. Because of the relationship I have with the people at my favorite shop, this incredible debut record fell into my hands. Based on my purchase history, tastes, and conversations we had, “my guy” recommended this record, and I am incredibly happy he did. Backed by a tight rhythm section, singer/songwriter Andrew Koji Shiraki delivers not only stark vocals, but some really great chord progressions throughout the entire record. It starts right off the bat with “Chasing A Ghost”, a wonderfully constructed three and a half minutes of longing and angst. And as you progress through the record, you quickly find out, this is a guy with something to say. His voice has the perfect blend of smooth and growl, which pushes the songs to new heights. This is one guy to keep an eye on for the future.
Key Tracks – Chasing A Ghost, Distance/Divide, What You Leave Behind
Number 6
Gary Numan – Splinter
Yes, the guy that did this…….
There is a reason I use the NIN/Numan clip to remind you of who he is. Trent Reznor has been on record saying that Numan was an influence on Nine Inch Nails….and it seems with this record, Numan has returned the reverential favor. I was struggling with this capsule, as I was having a hard time articulating “why” this record rates so high. When I brought that up to a very good friend, we both thought at the same time “it’s haunting”. (and she has never heard it….she just knew) This is a record of introspection, pain and suffering. A record that is needed to be heard as a whole to understand the true beauty of it. A record that gets better with every listen. It’s dark, it is broken….and it gets the listener BEGGING for a happy ending. It’s not there to be had, and that may be, in part, the genius of it. Numan, in the space of 12 aching tracks, takes the listener on a journey into his world and more importantly, into his psyche and soul. While he has continued to release music over the past years, this was the first record since “Cars” that has really moved the needle in the US. Truly, long overdue.
Key Tracks – (going to defer to the review and say that taking individual tracks out does not do this record justice)
Number 5
Cumulus – I Never Meant It To Be Like This
How to start a capsule on the best debut record of 2013? How’s this for polished: When talking about the record on the FABULOUS Air-Raid podcast, (seriously, go subscribe to it now, it’s fantastic) Chris Walla, head of Trans-Records said, when referring to the day he signed Cumulus to the label (and I’m paraphrasing) “It was the only record I can remember being brought to us that we didn’t touch before releasing, it was perfect as it was”. THAT is pretty high praise. Cumulus, prior to becoming a true band, was the work of Alexandra Niedzialkowski, a wonderful singer from outside of Seattle. Influenced by strong women from her youth listening to music, Alex started to put together a catalogue of original songs that grew in stature with every time she played out. Enter her childhood friend Lance Umble and bassist Leah Julius. Cumulus went from confessions of one woman, to a band with a plan. The sound and feel of the band brings me back to early 90’s women-led alt-rock acts, especially the Sundays. In fact, I sent an email to Alex to tell her how much I loved the record, and how much she reminded me of Harriet Wheeler, she indicated she had never really listened to them. (which, to me, was just great, as it took away the aspect of “copying a sound”) All of those comparisons aside, this is just a fantastic piece of art. From the opener, the flirty, popped-up “Do You Remember”, all the way to the end and “Night Swimming” (NOT a cover of the R.E.M. classic….but pretty damn near as good), the record takes the listener on a sonic voyage. Alex’s voice, filled with strength AND lilt, is as good as it gets. She hit’s every note, every word, every phrase with meaning and purpose. This was absolutely one of the biggest surprises of the year for me, and a record I can’t stop putting back onto the turntable.
Key Tracks – Do You Remember, Ocean Song, Morning Coffee, Night Swimming
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
The BEST of 2013. #12 - 9
The TOP 12 Albums of 2013
12-9
As the year is winding down, I am pretty confident that I have heard everything I wanted to hear this year. Click here to read the primer to the list that I wrote a couple of weeks ago. In short form? This was a TREMENDOUS year in music. This list was truly a labor of love, as the re-listen to everything I had heard since January, jumbled the rankings up more than I thought could happen. That said, I am very confident in how everything fell, and am happy to present the list to you, the reader.
Before we dive into the best of the best…..a few that JUST missed the top 12 (and what made me think of extending it to 15…it was THAT good a year). One line and one track on each.
Cage The Elephant – Melophobia
Victim of the re-listen, loved on the initial release, failed to keep speaking to me after the fact…
One Track: Come A Little Closer
Balance And Composure – Things We Think We’re Missing
A touch below their debut, strong throughout, but not enough to push any higher….
One Track: Lost Your Name
The National – Trouble Will Find Me
The opposite of Cage, with more listens, it would probably crawl into the bottom half of the 12….
One Track: Slipped
And now, let’s get to it. My favorite albums of the year, starting with 12-9. Remember the simple rules:
No Best Of
No Live
No Comps
Number 12
Volcano Choir – Repave
The top 12 starts with a record that up until about 3 months ago, would have easily checked in to the top 5. The reason for the “drop” is two-fold:
1) A LOT of great stuff came out since September
2) The re-listen made me take a more critical look
This is not to say it’s not a very good album, as it is. It’s just upon listen after listen, my excitement, while never waning, never increased either. The Bon Iver side project’s sophomore release is rife with great instrumentation, as well as the distinct voice of Justin Vernon. But unlike the Bon Iver records, Vernon has an avenue to let his range show, breaking down the usual falsetto wall, and allowing full register to be at the forefront. And guess what? It works very well. The record lacks a true standout track, and like a few records upcoming further up the list, works much better as a whole. If you like Bon Iver, it will not disappoint, and may become a “background music” staple.
Key Tracks: Byegone, Acetate
Number 11
Pearl Jam – Lightning Bolt
One of the most anticipated releases of the year in the household. I had a lot of expectations, following the resurgent release Backspacer, and Lightning Bolt, while not knocking it out of the park, certainly was a great offering from Mr. Vedder and the band. The obvious highlight is “Sirens”, which is easily one of the best songs of the year. A simple mid-tempo anthem, it soars with Eddie’s vocals and the unmistakable Mike McCready guitar sound. Other highlights include "Mind Your Manners", a punkish rocker with a FANTASTIC bridge and "Infallible", a mid-tempo bluesy feeling tune. The issue I have with the record, and why I can’t rate it higher, is that, like Backspacer, Lightning Bolt gets VERY uneven in the second half. I know that sequence of songs should not matter THAT much, but in this case, for me, it is a detriment. That said, if you skip around to what you want to listen to in whatever order, it may work better. A great, not REALLY great effort from Pearl Jam.
Key Tracks: Sirens, Fathers Son, Mind Your Manners.
Number 10
Mazzy Star – Seasons Of Your Day
17 years. 4 sets of Olympics, 4 World Cups….hell, it’s my son’s AGE! That is the number of years since the last Mazzy Star record came out. That is a hell of a hiatus. It’s crazy to think that I was in my 20s when "Fade Into You" hit the airwaves (but kid you not, despite the boyish looks, I was). So, when I was made aware that Hope Sandoval and David Roback were coming back to the scene…while excited, I was a bit skeptical. Could they recapture the magic that “Fade” had? Did they still have something to say? Were they aware that “their sound” should not be changed, as it would be re-welcomed into today’s landscape? The answer to all three, is a resounding YES. From the moment the record starts, the ethereal landscape is set. Roback has a defined talent in setting a mood from the first note that is struck. And then Hope’s voice….never loud, never reaching, just a perfect balance of emotion and verve that sets her apart from singers 20 years her junior. As the record plays, one song flows into the next. The textures are brilliant, the lyrics captivating, and the “Mazzy” sound envelops the room. The highlight is “California”, which I would rank in the top 10 songs of the year (there will be a side-bar type post to address this), but in all honesty, you could pick 6 songs off the record as a contender. This was my genuine surprise of the year, and a record that has had many a spin on the turntable. (bonus points for purple vinyl)
Key Tracks: California, Lay Myself Down, Sparrow
Number 9
Boxer Rebellion – Promises
In 2011, I became a TAD bit addicted to Boxer Rebellion. The Cold Still was in heavy rotation for me for a good two months, and every time I listened, I picked up something new from Nathan Nicholson and company. So, I was eagerly awaiting the follow up. I was not only not disappointed, I was blown away. Promises, while sounding like a Boxer Rebellion album, takes the SOUND to a new level. The first song, and first single, “Diamonds” sets the ethereal tone, taking the listener on a swell of emotions in a perfectly crafted 4 minutes. Howe’s guitar work has evolved into a signature sound, ala The Edge. Nicholson’s voice has never sounded better, soaring in spots, quiet in others. He may have taken the title from Chris Martin for “best well placed falsetto” as well. From “Diamonds” all the way through to the closer “Promises”, this is clearly their best work.
Key Tracks: Diamonds, Keep Moving, New York, Promises
12-9
As the year is winding down, I am pretty confident that I have heard everything I wanted to hear this year. Click here to read the primer to the list that I wrote a couple of weeks ago. In short form? This was a TREMENDOUS year in music. This list was truly a labor of love, as the re-listen to everything I had heard since January, jumbled the rankings up more than I thought could happen. That said, I am very confident in how everything fell, and am happy to present the list to you, the reader.
Before we dive into the best of the best…..a few that JUST missed the top 12 (and what made me think of extending it to 15…it was THAT good a year). One line and one track on each.
Cage The Elephant – Melophobia
Victim of the re-listen, loved on the initial release, failed to keep speaking to me after the fact…
One Track: Come A Little Closer
Balance And Composure – Things We Think We’re Missing
A touch below their debut, strong throughout, but not enough to push any higher….
One Track: Lost Your Name
The National – Trouble Will Find Me
The opposite of Cage, with more listens, it would probably crawl into the bottom half of the 12….
One Track: Slipped
And now, let’s get to it. My favorite albums of the year, starting with 12-9. Remember the simple rules:
No Best Of
No Live
No Comps
Number 12
Volcano Choir – Repave
The top 12 starts with a record that up until about 3 months ago, would have easily checked in to the top 5. The reason for the “drop” is two-fold:
1) A LOT of great stuff came out since September
2) The re-listen made me take a more critical look
This is not to say it’s not a very good album, as it is. It’s just upon listen after listen, my excitement, while never waning, never increased either. The Bon Iver side project’s sophomore release is rife with great instrumentation, as well as the distinct voice of Justin Vernon. But unlike the Bon Iver records, Vernon has an avenue to let his range show, breaking down the usual falsetto wall, and allowing full register to be at the forefront. And guess what? It works very well. The record lacks a true standout track, and like a few records upcoming further up the list, works much better as a whole. If you like Bon Iver, it will not disappoint, and may become a “background music” staple.
Key Tracks: Byegone, Acetate
Number 11
Pearl Jam – Lightning Bolt
One of the most anticipated releases of the year in the household. I had a lot of expectations, following the resurgent release Backspacer, and Lightning Bolt, while not knocking it out of the park, certainly was a great offering from Mr. Vedder and the band. The obvious highlight is “Sirens”, which is easily one of the best songs of the year. A simple mid-tempo anthem, it soars with Eddie’s vocals and the unmistakable Mike McCready guitar sound. Other highlights include "Mind Your Manners", a punkish rocker with a FANTASTIC bridge and "Infallible", a mid-tempo bluesy feeling tune. The issue I have with the record, and why I can’t rate it higher, is that, like Backspacer, Lightning Bolt gets VERY uneven in the second half. I know that sequence of songs should not matter THAT much, but in this case, for me, it is a detriment. That said, if you skip around to what you want to listen to in whatever order, it may work better. A great, not REALLY great effort from Pearl Jam.
Key Tracks: Sirens, Fathers Son, Mind Your Manners.
Number 10
Mazzy Star – Seasons Of Your Day
17 years. 4 sets of Olympics, 4 World Cups….hell, it’s my son’s AGE! That is the number of years since the last Mazzy Star record came out. That is a hell of a hiatus. It’s crazy to think that I was in my 20s when "Fade Into You" hit the airwaves (but kid you not, despite the boyish looks, I was). So, when I was made aware that Hope Sandoval and David Roback were coming back to the scene…while excited, I was a bit skeptical. Could they recapture the magic that “Fade” had? Did they still have something to say? Were they aware that “their sound” should not be changed, as it would be re-welcomed into today’s landscape? The answer to all three, is a resounding YES. From the moment the record starts, the ethereal landscape is set. Roback has a defined talent in setting a mood from the first note that is struck. And then Hope’s voice….never loud, never reaching, just a perfect balance of emotion and verve that sets her apart from singers 20 years her junior. As the record plays, one song flows into the next. The textures are brilliant, the lyrics captivating, and the “Mazzy” sound envelops the room. The highlight is “California”, which I would rank in the top 10 songs of the year (there will be a side-bar type post to address this), but in all honesty, you could pick 6 songs off the record as a contender. This was my genuine surprise of the year, and a record that has had many a spin on the turntable. (bonus points for purple vinyl)
Key Tracks: California, Lay Myself Down, Sparrow
Number 9
Boxer Rebellion – Promises
In 2011, I became a TAD bit addicted to Boxer Rebellion. The Cold Still was in heavy rotation for me for a good two months, and every time I listened, I picked up something new from Nathan Nicholson and company. So, I was eagerly awaiting the follow up. I was not only not disappointed, I was blown away. Promises, while sounding like a Boxer Rebellion album, takes the SOUND to a new level. The first song, and first single, “Diamonds” sets the ethereal tone, taking the listener on a swell of emotions in a perfectly crafted 4 minutes. Howe’s guitar work has evolved into a signature sound, ala The Edge. Nicholson’s voice has never sounded better, soaring in spots, quiet in others. He may have taken the title from Chris Martin for “best well placed falsetto” as well. From “Diamonds” all the way through to the closer “Promises”, this is clearly their best work.
Key Tracks: Diamonds, Keep Moving, New York, Promises
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