Note: A better group than last week, and actually better than I thought it might be. There were a few albums in there from classic rockers that I didn't immediately recognized the album title and there are a few new artists at the bottom of the list that sounded pretty good.
In Red’s Collection
Californication (1999) by Red Hot Chili Peppers
There’s not doubt this is the best album in this group. This is the emergence of John Frusciante as one of the best guitarists around and the elevation of Anthony Kiedis as a vocalist. The Peppers stay true to the punk-funk origins that their original fans fell in love with while growing musically as a group.
Red’s Shameless Plug
The Cars (1978) by The Cars
The Cars made New Wave legit with this album. I have to admit that “Just What I Needed” would make the list as one of my favorite tunes. I am not sure where, but I have always just really liked that tune. Add “Good Times Roll,” and “My Best Frind’s Girl” and you have yourself the start of one hell of an album.
No Doubt About It
Catch A Fire (1973) by Bob Marley and the Wailers
This is the debut for Bob and the Wailers and probably the most collaborative. I don’t know many of the tunes here other than “Stir It Up.” This also has an album jacket that looks like a Zippo that I am sure Snake would appreciate.
Celebrity Skin (1998) by Hole
The title track is as mainstream of rock song as your going to get from a female led band. It fit Courtney Love like a glove. Thanks Billy Corgan for helping write that one. The rest of the album takes a lot of shots at Hollywood and fellow musicians. “Awful” is a good tune also (allegedly about Bush’s Gavin Rosedale). It’s too bad Love is a trainwreck because when she’s focused she makes some pretty damn good music.
Cheap Thrills (1968) by Big Brother and the Holding Company
Only the 60s could have produced that band name. Janis Joplin blossomed at the front of this group and this album spawned the iconic “Piece of My Heart.” She left the band when the album was still at the top of the charts.
Chelsea Girl (1967) by Nico
Most people didn’t get this album when it came out as it was in tune with Andy Warhol art movement. Everyone jumped on the ship though to write tunes for the former Velvet Underground singer including Bob Dylan, Lou Reed, John Cale and a very young Jackson Browne (17 and dating Nico). Not many albums can boast a stable of writers that good.
The Best of the Rest
California (1988) by American Music Club
This could be the sleeper of this group. The American Music Club is the poor man’s R.E.M. On the flip side, they don’t seem to pretend to be so damn important as R.E.M. makes themselves out to be at times.
The Rest
Calenture (1987) by The Triffids
The Triffids are another 80s indie band from Australia that never quite made it big. The songs I listened to from this aren’t bad –not great – but not bad.
Call of the Valley (1967) by Shivkumar Sharma/Brijbushan Kabra/Hariprasad Chaurasia
“Longest name of artists ever.” This is Indian Music that caught the ear of a lot of artists in the 1960s. Probably be good on the shelf at Target or Shopko with all those peaceful music CDs.
Can’t Buy A Thrill (1972) by Steely Dan
I think we’ve covered our feelings on Steely Dan. “Reeling in the Years” is probably one of my favorites from this group that I can’t otherwise stand.
Car Wheels On A Gravel Road (1998) by Lucinda Williams
This a little more country of which I know little about. Maybe Snake knows more. It doesn’t sound bad. I kind of remember hearing the album title when it came out, but not much more.
Casanova (1996) by the Divine Comedy
This has the big sound that seems to be more prevalent from across the ocean. You know what I mean, horns, orchestras, drums and such. They also seem quirky that makes the music fun.
Cee-Lo Green…Is The Soul Machine (2004) by Cee-Lo Green
Green had some affiliation with Outkast, but left to go solo. While part of the “Dirty South” movement, Green has never garnered the albums sales of some of his peers. Pharrell and Timbaland both make contributions here.
Central Reservation (1999) by Beth Orton
I’ve been impressed with the songs I’ve listened to from this selection. She’s seems to mix slow and fast together. I might pick this up if I find it somewhere.
C’est Chic (1978) by Chic
This is 70s disco-dance music. It served that purpose well enough.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
Red's CD Project Part 11
Note: While the chaos in the world starts to heat up, Hal's world starts to slow down as we wind down on our little tale. When I edit this out, I'll probably expand these sections some, but I think this conveys enough to get the point across. Three songs left after this to conclude this project.
Disc 2
Track 13
What Sarah Said
Death Cab for Cutie
Plans
And it came to me then that every plan is a tiny prayer to father time
Hal stood before the window watching the parking lot as Agents Robinson and Mick escorted Abdul to the black SUV. Abdul’s arms swung back and forth at his sides, his chin was up. The SUV door opened and he disappeared into the backseat that was shielded by tinted windows. Hal had Agent Robinson’s business card slid between his fingers on his right hand. Lifting it up, he read it one last time before dropping it into a metal wastebasket next to a large gray file cabinet. He had spun a tale about Raheel being very dangerous for nearly a half an hour to Robinson while Abdul was being discharged. It was all lies, but it would focus the FBI on a dead man rather than staking out Abdul’s apartment. Not that they wouldn’t keep an eye on Abdul, but it was pretty clear after six weeks in prison that the man had neither the political clout to raise a fuss in the Muslim community nor the violent inclination to mastermind terrorist attacks. At least that last part Hal had made the agents believe. “A model prisoner,” Hal trumped and that the man seemed to learn from the follies of his past. Neither was really a lie. Abdul regretted a lot about his past. None of which had to do with any of his involvement in the Muslim community. As far as being violent, well, he hadn’t been that violent when he came to the Jacobs County Jail. He didn’t even appear violent as the agents took him away.
Hal knew that fact would change. For that, Hal felt a twinge of regret and guilt. He had done some terrible things over the last week or two. All of which were done to complete one goal – push Mr. Abdul Mushi over the brink.
Hal walked back to his desk and pulled out a white envelope from the top drawer on the right side. The envelope was sealed shut and addressed across the front. There was no return address. Inside were three Polaroid pictures and a small scrap of paper with one phrase scribbled across it.
“We’ve cast the first stone”
Hal turned the envelope in hands not worrying about his fingerprints. Knowing the man who received this letter would never turn this envelope over to the authorities. He wouldn’t trust them. In fact, he’d suspect them. While those thoughts brewed under his rage and grief, he’d concoct a plan. After that, Hal didn’t know what would happen. Hal’s role in the grand scheme of things was over. He had set the pieces in motion and now it was up to them to keep going.
He took the envelope over to the out-going mail bin located near the front desk and buried it a couple letters down. From there, it would be sent out to the world. Before walking away, he noticed another letter lying on top of the stack. The handwriting was scribbled and a little hard to make out, but he saw that it was addressed to her. Looking around, he grabbed the letter and placed it in the inside pocket of his suit.
When he returned to his desk, Hal turned his thoughts to another letter he was composing. The Word screen on his computer was blank except for one line.
“I, Hal Glock, am writing to inform the department of my intention to resign as Dectective for Jacobs County.”
Disc 2
Track 14
Days of Wonder
The Wallflowers
Rebel, Sweetheart
Days of wonder spent out there killing time. Now this may not leave a mark on me, but I sure as hell was there.
Three weeks later, Hal sat among brown boxes stacked sporadically around the living room of his parent’s home. It was late afternoon and his hands were black from grease. Planting season had hit full stride, but his Dad’s old tractor was still sputtering. Over the long winter, rats had made hash of the electrical system. Hal had fooled around all morning and the early afternoon before giving up. He called Evan’s Tractor Supply and they were sending a guy out as soon as possible, which could mean an hour or two days considering every farmer in the area was fighting with machinery to get the crops in.
He clicked on the old TV set, which amazingly still had a turn dial on the front and no remote. Hal would change out sets with the one from his house as soon as the crops were in. Despite it being only 4 p.m., a female news anchor’s face, which was straining to hold the most serious grimace, appeared on the screen.
“Again, the facts of this situation are not fully available,” the anchor said.
The screen changed to a scene of a pile of rubble and smoke.
“What you’re seeing now is the scene at Chicago’s largest police station. Earlier today a van drove into the front doors and moments later an explosion ripped through the building. We’re being told that hundreds of people involved in the daily operation of the station were inside including uniformed officers, detectives, clerks and countless other citizens.”
Hal reclined against one of the boxes he was previously filling with some of his parent’s old stuff.
“We’re being told that at least three other stations around the city have been attacked in a similar fashion. We have been trying to get crews to each scene but traffic around the city has been stalled and air-traffic has been completely stopped by order of the Governor.”
Hal was stunned. He didn’t need anyone to tell him who was responsible. Hal knew. He was just surprised how quickly Abdul had created a plan and found people to help him carry out the plot. Hal had picked wisely.
He remembered then the letter he picked off the pile from the outgoing mail the day of Abdul’s release. He hoped he could find it among the disaster scene that was his attempt at moving. He had never read and had meant to bury with her out in the field.
He rifled through a few of the boxes he had brought from his old place, but didn’t see it. He remembered putting it in his suit pocket. He just had to find the box with all his old clothes. Before he could find it, he heard the front door open and he forgot all about the letter.
Hal walked out to the kitchen to greet his visitor.
“Oh, have you seen the news,” Mary said while putting two paper bags of groceries on the kitchen table. When the bags were down, the small bump under her green blouse was visible.
“Yes, I was just watching it on the TV.”
“Isn’t it just horrible,” she said and wrapped her arms around him. “How could anybody do such a thing?”
“Sometimes they just do, baby. Sometimes they just do,” Hal kissed her forehead forgetting all about Abdul and the bodies buried out in the yet to be planted field.
Disc 2
Track 15
Carousel
Buckcherry
15
Baby you know that you saved me
They packed up more of his parent’s stuff that had accumulated over the years the rest of the day. No one came to repair the tractor.
They had cleaned out both bedrooms the day before and unpacked their own stuff from their former home. They both felt like the move was all about making a fresh start. Mary even liked the idea of him not working for the department. She always thought that the pressure is what led Hal to do some of things he did. She was sort of right, but mostly wrong.
About 9:30 they dropped down in front of the TV with bodies and minds too tired to do much else.
“You know Ma thinks I am crazy to come back to you,” Mary said.
“I bet.”
“She’s just looking out for me.”
“I know it, but she doesn’t have worry.”
“Doesn’t she.”
Hal turned to her and put his hand to her stomach. He smiled.
“Mary, my days of hurting people are over. “
She let a tear slide down her face. A news bulletin jumped burst onto the screen that had been showing a rerun of a sitcom and distracted them. The same anchor lady looking a little more tired and struggling more to keep her composure came onto the screen.
“The Mayor has ordered a curfew for the city of Chicago beginning immediately. He is pleading that citizens comply as the police force is currently decimated. The President has ordered in the national guard, but with roads still blocked with traffic they have been slow to reach the places they are needed.”
Scenes of the Chicago skyline with flames visible in several places came onto the screen. Hal guessed the news station had rented a boat to get the shot.
“Rumors are running rampant that an underground extreme Muslim group may be responsible,” the lady anchor continued. “Already, enraged citizens have congregated and retaliated. At least three mosques have been set on fire.”
The lady anchor paused then with emotion almost seeming to overcome her. The next brief look said that she thought they deserved it.
“I apologize, but my husband worked for the police department for 10 years before switching careers. We had a lot of friends in several of these buildings. I have hard time finding my composure and any sympathy for those responsible for this.”
The lady anchor shuffled papers on the desk in front of her hoping that most of the audience would forget what she just said.
“We’ll have more on this story on you nightly news at 10.”
“Oh Hal, I can’t watch this stuff anymore tonight,” Mary said resting her head on his shoulder.
He kissed her head.
“Let’s go up to bed then.” He got up and turned the TV off and the room went dark.
Disc 2
Track 13
What Sarah Said
Death Cab for Cutie
Plans
And it came to me then that every plan is a tiny prayer to father time
Hal stood before the window watching the parking lot as Agents Robinson and Mick escorted Abdul to the black SUV. Abdul’s arms swung back and forth at his sides, his chin was up. The SUV door opened and he disappeared into the backseat that was shielded by tinted windows. Hal had Agent Robinson’s business card slid between his fingers on his right hand. Lifting it up, he read it one last time before dropping it into a metal wastebasket next to a large gray file cabinet. He had spun a tale about Raheel being very dangerous for nearly a half an hour to Robinson while Abdul was being discharged. It was all lies, but it would focus the FBI on a dead man rather than staking out Abdul’s apartment. Not that they wouldn’t keep an eye on Abdul, but it was pretty clear after six weeks in prison that the man had neither the political clout to raise a fuss in the Muslim community nor the violent inclination to mastermind terrorist attacks. At least that last part Hal had made the agents believe. “A model prisoner,” Hal trumped and that the man seemed to learn from the follies of his past. Neither was really a lie. Abdul regretted a lot about his past. None of which had to do with any of his involvement in the Muslim community. As far as being violent, well, he hadn’t been that violent when he came to the Jacobs County Jail. He didn’t even appear violent as the agents took him away.
Hal knew that fact would change. For that, Hal felt a twinge of regret and guilt. He had done some terrible things over the last week or two. All of which were done to complete one goal – push Mr. Abdul Mushi over the brink.
Hal walked back to his desk and pulled out a white envelope from the top drawer on the right side. The envelope was sealed shut and addressed across the front. There was no return address. Inside were three Polaroid pictures and a small scrap of paper with one phrase scribbled across it.
“We’ve cast the first stone”
Hal turned the envelope in hands not worrying about his fingerprints. Knowing the man who received this letter would never turn this envelope over to the authorities. He wouldn’t trust them. In fact, he’d suspect them. While those thoughts brewed under his rage and grief, he’d concoct a plan. After that, Hal didn’t know what would happen. Hal’s role in the grand scheme of things was over. He had set the pieces in motion and now it was up to them to keep going.
He took the envelope over to the out-going mail bin located near the front desk and buried it a couple letters down. From there, it would be sent out to the world. Before walking away, he noticed another letter lying on top of the stack. The handwriting was scribbled and a little hard to make out, but he saw that it was addressed to her. Looking around, he grabbed the letter and placed it in the inside pocket of his suit.
When he returned to his desk, Hal turned his thoughts to another letter he was composing. The Word screen on his computer was blank except for one line.
“I, Hal Glock, am writing to inform the department of my intention to resign as Dectective for Jacobs County.”
Disc 2
Track 14
Days of Wonder
The Wallflowers
Rebel, Sweetheart
Days of wonder spent out there killing time. Now this may not leave a mark on me, but I sure as hell was there.
Three weeks later, Hal sat among brown boxes stacked sporadically around the living room of his parent’s home. It was late afternoon and his hands were black from grease. Planting season had hit full stride, but his Dad’s old tractor was still sputtering. Over the long winter, rats had made hash of the electrical system. Hal had fooled around all morning and the early afternoon before giving up. He called Evan’s Tractor Supply and they were sending a guy out as soon as possible, which could mean an hour or two days considering every farmer in the area was fighting with machinery to get the crops in.
He clicked on the old TV set, which amazingly still had a turn dial on the front and no remote. Hal would change out sets with the one from his house as soon as the crops were in. Despite it being only 4 p.m., a female news anchor’s face, which was straining to hold the most serious grimace, appeared on the screen.
“Again, the facts of this situation are not fully available,” the anchor said.
The screen changed to a scene of a pile of rubble and smoke.
“What you’re seeing now is the scene at Chicago’s largest police station. Earlier today a van drove into the front doors and moments later an explosion ripped through the building. We’re being told that hundreds of people involved in the daily operation of the station were inside including uniformed officers, detectives, clerks and countless other citizens.”
Hal reclined against one of the boxes he was previously filling with some of his parent’s old stuff.
“We’re being told that at least three other stations around the city have been attacked in a similar fashion. We have been trying to get crews to each scene but traffic around the city has been stalled and air-traffic has been completely stopped by order of the Governor.”
Hal was stunned. He didn’t need anyone to tell him who was responsible. Hal knew. He was just surprised how quickly Abdul had created a plan and found people to help him carry out the plot. Hal had picked wisely.
He remembered then the letter he picked off the pile from the outgoing mail the day of Abdul’s release. He hoped he could find it among the disaster scene that was his attempt at moving. He had never read and had meant to bury with her out in the field.
He rifled through a few of the boxes he had brought from his old place, but didn’t see it. He remembered putting it in his suit pocket. He just had to find the box with all his old clothes. Before he could find it, he heard the front door open and he forgot all about the letter.
Hal walked out to the kitchen to greet his visitor.
“Oh, have you seen the news,” Mary said while putting two paper bags of groceries on the kitchen table. When the bags were down, the small bump under her green blouse was visible.
“Yes, I was just watching it on the TV.”
“Isn’t it just horrible,” she said and wrapped her arms around him. “How could anybody do such a thing?”
“Sometimes they just do, baby. Sometimes they just do,” Hal kissed her forehead forgetting all about Abdul and the bodies buried out in the yet to be planted field.
Disc 2
Track 15
Carousel
Buckcherry
15
Baby you know that you saved me
They packed up more of his parent’s stuff that had accumulated over the years the rest of the day. No one came to repair the tractor.
They had cleaned out both bedrooms the day before and unpacked their own stuff from their former home. They both felt like the move was all about making a fresh start. Mary even liked the idea of him not working for the department. She always thought that the pressure is what led Hal to do some of things he did. She was sort of right, but mostly wrong.
About 9:30 they dropped down in front of the TV with bodies and minds too tired to do much else.
“You know Ma thinks I am crazy to come back to you,” Mary said.
“I bet.”
“She’s just looking out for me.”
“I know it, but she doesn’t have worry.”
“Doesn’t she.”
Hal turned to her and put his hand to her stomach. He smiled.
“Mary, my days of hurting people are over. “
She let a tear slide down her face. A news bulletin jumped burst onto the screen that had been showing a rerun of a sitcom and distracted them. The same anchor lady looking a little more tired and struggling more to keep her composure came onto the screen.
“The Mayor has ordered a curfew for the city of Chicago beginning immediately. He is pleading that citizens comply as the police force is currently decimated. The President has ordered in the national guard, but with roads still blocked with traffic they have been slow to reach the places they are needed.”
Scenes of the Chicago skyline with flames visible in several places came onto the screen. Hal guessed the news station had rented a boat to get the shot.
“Rumors are running rampant that an underground extreme Muslim group may be responsible,” the lady anchor continued. “Already, enraged citizens have congregated and retaliated. At least three mosques have been set on fire.”
The lady anchor paused then with emotion almost seeming to overcome her. The next brief look said that she thought they deserved it.
“I apologize, but my husband worked for the police department for 10 years before switching careers. We had a lot of friends in several of these buildings. I have hard time finding my composure and any sympathy for those responsible for this.”
The lady anchor shuffled papers on the desk in front of her hoping that most of the audience would forget what she just said.
“We’ll have more on this story on you nightly news at 10.”
“Oh Hal, I can’t watch this stuff anymore tonight,” Mary said resting her head on his shoulder.
He kissed her head.
“Let’s go up to bed then.” He got up and turned the TV off and the room went dark.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Snake's Encore: Broken English - Cafe Bleu
In Snake's Collection:
None! Wow this is a tough week.
You're The Best Around!
Brothers In Arms - Dire Straits:
This is clearly the winner this week. Mark Knopler's laid back voice and smooth guitar playing are at their best. This album features the only Dire Straits song not fully credited to Knopler, with Sting getting credit for "I Want My MTV" on 'Money For Nothing'. This is supposedly one of the first albums that is longer in CD format than in LP and the first to have the CD version outsell the LP.
I Think We've Met
Bug - Dinosaur Jr & Bubble and Scrape - Sebadoh:
I have a few Dinosaur Jr. songs from soundtracks. I enjoy them, but none of them are from 'Bug'. I had a Sebadoh CD once that a friend gave me. It was their first album, very mellow. I know they were Kurt Cobain's favorite band and that will never hurt your reputation. So, I've liked what I have heard, but figure I will keep channeling my money into other artists that I like more.
Hard Pills To Swallow
Butterfly - Mariah Carey:
It is hard to argue against the success of this album, even if it isn't my cup of tea. I certain have even self awareness to know that I can't like everything. :)
Buffalo Springfield Again - Buffalo Springfield:
I am not sure about this one, because looking it over and giving it a listen it doesn't seem that great. But when you are a super group like this churning out music of the era, it would be hard to keep it off this list.
Worst Episode Ever!
I don't even have a good omission from this week. I took an extra day trying to research more about all these bands I know nothing about and still came out uninspired. So, all I can do is look forward to next week. I do have a couple good albums in my collection that will either fall into next week or the week after. I don't believe 'C' should be that big of a group.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
1001 Albums (116-130): Broken English - Cafe Bleu
Note: This is probably the weakest group we've had since changing the format. It made it pretty hard to separate some of these out. But we do get into the C's this week for a little change of scenery. Also, I added in the albums I accidently skipped over last week.
In Red’s Collection
Nothing here. This could be a long week.
Red’s Shameless Plug
Brothers in Arms (1985) by Dire Straits
This is Mark Knopfler at his creative height. The first three tunes were sure fire hits and maybe one of the best starts to any album. The title track steals the show for me at this point of my life. The guitar is understated yet inviting. The voice is low and stunning. I don’t have this album, but I do have their greatest hits. Totally worth it.
No Doubt About It
Buffalo Springfield Again (1967) by Buffalo Springfield
I liken Buffalo Springfield as the American version of the Yardbirds. It just seems like everybody played in this band at some point. Stephen Stills and Neil Young are basically working to outdo each other here as songwriters with a couple other members tossing in a tune here or there.
Butterfly (1997) by Mariah Carey
I remember hearing a ton about this album. I am not a Mariah Carey fan, but this seems to be the point where she stops singing big over-produced ballads and delves more into hip-hop.
The Band Tree
Bug (1988) by Dinosaur Jr.
Dinosaur Jr. were a trio hailed as the successors of Sonic Youth. It’s pretty hard-hitting stuff, but not so much that it offends the ears. This was the last studio album made by the original members. After this, bassist Lou Barlow was kicked out of the band.
Barlow went on to form. …
Bubble and Scrape (1993) by Sebadoh
Barlow’s second band became Indie legends supported by the likes of Kurt Cobain. This band seems to be a little less hard and a lot more melancholy stuff.
Not Sure Where These Belong
Broken English (1979) by Marianne Faithfull
Faithfull has ties to great rock bands from the Stones to the Sex Pistols to Metallica. Her voice is rough and she’s pretty angry and nasty on this album. She even snarls out the lyric “Why’d you spit on my snatch?” I don’t think you’d hear that from many other female artists.
Bryter Layter (1970) by Nick Drake
The folk martyr made his second attempt at fame with this album. He got a little help from various musicians including Velvet Underground alum John Cale. This was a couple years before depression and suicide grabbed complete hold.
Oops, I Didn’t See You There
Brilliant Corners (1957) by Thelonious Monk
This is the album I left off last week by accident. Monk breaks out here on an indie jazz label more interested in his talents then his previous record company.
The Best of the Rest
Buenas Noches From A Lonely Room (1988) by Dwight Yoakam
Stylistically banished from Nashville, Yoakam recreated classic country songs from California and added his modern twist making him one of the more influential artists in the genre during that time.
The Rest
Brown Sugar (1995) by D’Angelo
This album is credited as the rebirth of R&B, but this R&B has a little more attitude than Smokey Robinson.
Brutal Youth (1994) by Elvis Costello
Well this is what is. Another Costello album I know little about other than apparently he is angry. The only difference is that he is a little older.
Buena Vista Social Club (1997) by Buena Vista Social Club
This is a band of retired musicians in Cuba who made an album that hit No. 1 in Germany. Figure that out.
Bummed (1988) by Happy Mondays
I read the review of this one and I am still not sure what kind of music it is. They are British and are compared to the Stone Roses. Maybe that’ll point you in the right direction.
Caetano Veloso (1968) by Caetano Veloso
This Brazilian (although he’s been exiled to London since the 1960s) is described as hybrid of Brian Wilson, Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan, Syd Barrett, John Lennon and Bob Marley. Who do they think this guy is? Marrianne Faithful’s son perhaps! Ha. Ha.
Café Bleu (1984) by The Style Council
This is pretty smooth sounding British pop from the 80s. It adds a bit of blues and jazz in there in places also.
In Red’s Collection
Nothing here. This could be a long week.
Red’s Shameless Plug
Brothers in Arms (1985) by Dire Straits
This is Mark Knopfler at his creative height. The first three tunes were sure fire hits and maybe one of the best starts to any album. The title track steals the show for me at this point of my life. The guitar is understated yet inviting. The voice is low and stunning. I don’t have this album, but I do have their greatest hits. Totally worth it.
No Doubt About It
Buffalo Springfield Again (1967) by Buffalo Springfield
I liken Buffalo Springfield as the American version of the Yardbirds. It just seems like everybody played in this band at some point. Stephen Stills and Neil Young are basically working to outdo each other here as songwriters with a couple other members tossing in a tune here or there.
Butterfly (1997) by Mariah Carey
I remember hearing a ton about this album. I am not a Mariah Carey fan, but this seems to be the point where she stops singing big over-produced ballads and delves more into hip-hop.
The Band Tree
Bug (1988) by Dinosaur Jr.
Dinosaur Jr. were a trio hailed as the successors of Sonic Youth. It’s pretty hard-hitting stuff, but not so much that it offends the ears. This was the last studio album made by the original members. After this, bassist Lou Barlow was kicked out of the band.
Barlow went on to form. …
Bubble and Scrape (1993) by Sebadoh
Barlow’s second band became Indie legends supported by the likes of Kurt Cobain. This band seems to be a little less hard and a lot more melancholy stuff.
Not Sure Where These Belong
Broken English (1979) by Marianne Faithfull
Faithfull has ties to great rock bands from the Stones to the Sex Pistols to Metallica. Her voice is rough and she’s pretty angry and nasty on this album. She even snarls out the lyric “Why’d you spit on my snatch?” I don’t think you’d hear that from many other female artists.
Bryter Layter (1970) by Nick Drake
The folk martyr made his second attempt at fame with this album. He got a little help from various musicians including Velvet Underground alum John Cale. This was a couple years before depression and suicide grabbed complete hold.
Oops, I Didn’t See You There
Brilliant Corners (1957) by Thelonious Monk
This is the album I left off last week by accident. Monk breaks out here on an indie jazz label more interested in his talents then his previous record company.
The Best of the Rest
Buenas Noches From A Lonely Room (1988) by Dwight Yoakam
Stylistically banished from Nashville, Yoakam recreated classic country songs from California and added his modern twist making him one of the more influential artists in the genre during that time.
The Rest
Brown Sugar (1995) by D’Angelo
This album is credited as the rebirth of R&B, but this R&B has a little more attitude than Smokey Robinson.
Brutal Youth (1994) by Elvis Costello
Well this is what is. Another Costello album I know little about other than apparently he is angry. The only difference is that he is a little older.
Buena Vista Social Club (1997) by Buena Vista Social Club
This is a band of retired musicians in Cuba who made an album that hit No. 1 in Germany. Figure that out.
Bummed (1988) by Happy Mondays
I read the review of this one and I am still not sure what kind of music it is. They are British and are compared to the Stone Roses. Maybe that’ll point you in the right direction.
Caetano Veloso (1968) by Caetano Veloso
This Brazilian (although he’s been exiled to London since the 1960s) is described as hybrid of Brian Wilson, Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan, Syd Barrett, John Lennon and Bob Marley. Who do they think this guy is? Marrianne Faithful’s son perhaps! Ha. Ha.
Café Bleu (1984) by The Style Council
This is pretty smooth sounding British pop from the 80s. It adds a bit of blues and jazz in there in places also.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Red's CD Project Part 10
Note: I am having to spend a lot time thinking about sequencing as I close in on the conclusion of my story. It's hard when you know you only have so many parts left. You don't want to make anything feel too rushed or out of place. The last two sections here are one's that I've thought about for quite awhile. I wanted some emotion to really leak out in those parts.
Disc 2
Track 10Change Your Mind
All American Rejects
Move Along
It’s just your doubt that binds you. Just drop those thoughts behind you. Change Your mind.
“So what will you do now?”
Abdul stood and turned away. His lawyers had won his release. It would become official in 24 hours when the FBI escorted him back to his home. This was unexpected turn and one that forced Hal to move forward a bit faster than he expected.
Hal’s cell phone exploded in the holster he kept on his belt buckle. Both he and Abdul jumped at the sound. Hal looked at the number and answered.
“Mary?”
“Hal we need to talk.”
“Can it wait? I am working right now.”
“Okay. When?”
“I am going to need a week or two before I’m ready.”
“Hal.” Mary sounded irritated on other end.
“I am not ready yet.”
“Fine.” The line went dead on the other end. Hal folded his phone over and returned it to its holster.
Abdul spun around slowly.
“Who’s Mary?”
“My wife.”
“Wife? Hmm.”
“We’re separated right now.”
“Is that your fault?”
“Mostly.”
Abdul seemed to lose interest and dropped back down on his cot and stared up at the ceiling.
“Do you love her Detective?”
“More than anything.”
“Are you going to get her back?”
Now it was Hal’s turn to go quiet. He avoided the subject of Mary in his mind even more than he had when any of his coworkers had brought her name up. Abdul sat up.
“Detective?”
“I’ve come to realize when you lose everything that you care about, you’ll do anything it takes to get it back.”
“If it’s gone for good?”
“Then, I suppose that’s when a man has nothing left to lose.”
They both fell silent. Never had Hal wanted a hiss or a howl to sound out in his life to break the honesty dwelling in the room. For the first time, he and Abdul were two men talking as men.
“They call mine, Misba.”
“Yours. I didn’t know you were married.”
“I am not, although she very much wanted to be a long time ago. I was stupid not to accept that. Now, I guess you could say we are separated.”
“You love her then.”
“More than Allah. I realize that now.”
Hal felt his hold over Abdul slipping. For these few moments, he almost wanted to let it go.
“Where do you go now?”
“I am going to go to her. I have decided that is what is best. We will leave here and find happiness while it still lasts in the world.”
“That’s admirable.”
Abdul shrugged and met Hal’s eyes with an honest stare.
“What does Misba mean?”
“It’s means innocent in Arabic. It is a beautiful, is it not?”
Warm blood pumped through Hal’s veins and he remembered his duty. His intention was not to be friends with this man. Inside the wolf stirred and the blood of the lamb touched his lips.
“What if the world were to take her away?”
Abdul didn’t hesitate.
“Then I would make that world pay.”
Disc 2
Track 11
Stage Fright
The Band
Greatest Hits
The moment of truth is right at hand, just one more nightmare you can stand
Hal parked across the street from her home. It was mid-afternoon and a warm spring breezed wafted from the street into his open window. He thought about calling Mary about this morning’s conversation, but he knew he couldn’t. He was too on edge. His hands were shaking and he felt the compulsion to continually rub and scratch his face even thought it did not itch. He watched the small brick house and saw no movement behind the windows.
Hal turned on the CD player, keeping the volume down as to not draw too much attention. Mick Jagger began to sing.
“I told you once and I’ve told you twice. You’d better listen to my advice…”
She came into view in the distance. She wore a blue garment that covered everything and a yellow scarf wrapped neatly around her head and under her chin. She was carrying a brown paper bag that appeared to be full of groceries.
“I’m sorry girl but I can’t stay. Feeling like I do today...”
As she drew closer, he could see why Abdul loved her. She was tall and even in the unflattering Islamic garb he could tell that she had nice curves.
“I’ve told you once and I’ve told you twice. Someone’ll have to pay the price...”
She was a block away when he pulled the ignition to kill the engine and the music. The keys jingled as he slid them clumsily into his pant’s pocket.
She was two houses away from her own when he opened the car door and stepped out. She did not notice him. He crossed the street with weak knees that made him almost teeter over as she climbed the steps.
“Excuse me, Miss.” He squeaked out like a middle-school boy asking a girl out onto the dance floor.
She seemed to float in the air as she turned to him. Her eyes startled him. They were big and dark with a thin circle of almost purple around the pupil. Her face was calm and never lost that serenity even in the end.
“Miss…” he stumbled to find the words. She was a beautiful, but that was not causing his nerves to jump into high gear.
She put the bag of groceries on the stoop and came to him. Standing right in front of him, she put her finger to his check and traced along his shaving scar.
“For the past week, I have dreamt of you,” Her voice was low, but soft. “But not of you, but of this.” She spoke and traced the scar again.
“Except you were not a man, but a giant wolf chasing me through a field. I’d run until my legs started to hurt and I’d turn to see you at my ankles.”
“You have to come with me,” Hal said so far under his breath that he wasn’t sure she heard him correctly.
Her eyes moved to his and they almost forced him to his knees to beg for forgiveness.
“You have to, I can not stop it now,” Hal choked out in fear that he’d start crying.
Her eyes never left his.
“I know,” she said.
Ripping his eyes away, he wiped at his brow and pointed across the street.
“There’s my car.”
“I see.”
They walked across the street and he opened the passenger door for her. He came around the front of the car and dropped behind the wheel. He turned the engine and the last chorus of the Stones song softly hit the speakers.
“This could be the last time. Maybe the last time. I don’t know. Oh no…”
Hal flipped the sound off.
Track 12
Into the Ocean
Blue October
Foiled
I’m cold as cold as cold can be
She stood before the last of the trinity of graves with the sun setting in the sky in front of her. She removed her scarf allowing the long curls of her brown hair to hit her shoulders.
She had not spoke the entire quiet drive. She only hummed a few times so low that he could not make out much of a tune.
When he parked behind the barn, he pointed to where they were going and she immediately opened the car door. She glided straight out while Hal retrieved the stone from the fresher of two recently covered graves.
For a few minutes, she stood before the grave looking down at the cold sod. Then she looked to the sky and raised her hands ups. To Hal’s surprise, she began to dance. Moving without effort in front of her soon-to-be resting place, she twirled and spun. Her arms moved smoothly and invitingly. The dance lasted quite awhile and by the time she finished, she was breathing very hard and tears were resting in the corners of Hal’s eyes.
She finished again facing the grave. She turned her head to him who had moved right behind her.
“Do you wish to say prayer?”
“My dance was my final offering. I believe it pleased Allah very much. Now, you must make your offering.”
Hal wiped away snot that was leaking from his nose as she turned back to the sunset. Above streaks of purple raced from the horizon across the sky. They looked like huge bruised fingers trying to reach into the world.
Hal brought the stone down once and she fell to the soil. That was all it took and all he had left.
He fell to his knees feeling the years of unease, of anger, of hate, of evil drain from him and soak into the ground with Misba’s innocent blood. Off in the distance, a rumble came from a storm not yet visible.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Snake's Encore
Note: Interesting group this week. I am gonna campaign a little bit for some of my favorites that got left off as well as preach up the ones that are on here. So sorry for some of the missing takes on the sleepers, I don't have time right now.
In Snake's Collection
Bringing It All Back Home - Bob Dylan:
We are moving backwards in time from his selections last week. This is truly the transitional album from the political folk singer, to the eclectic, visionary, rock songwriter that Dylan would become. The first side is an electrified slap in the face and the second rescinds back into his acoustic ways. His writing style starts to take shape as he becomes more abstract and introspective. Alot of his lyrics give a clue to the new direction he wants to take as well as serving as a guide for his fans to follow his feelings and ideas. "Maggie's Farm" is a metaphor for the folk music scene and how he isn't working for them no more. "Bob Dylan's 115th Dream" is this crazy surreal experience that I don't have enough words to describe. "It's Alright Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" gives the most incite into his new approach with some of his most amazing lyrics if you can keep up. "So don't fear if you hear / A foreign sound to your ear / It's alright, Ma, I'm only sighing." is a line from the song that is a guide to his listeners not to be afraid of his new musical direction. I said last week that "Tangled Up In Blue" is my favorite Dylan song, well "It's All Over Now Baby Blue" is second on that list and kinda has the same feel. Lovers parting ways long after their relationship has really ended. It has been said this is another metaphor for his departure from the Folk scene. Another truly amazing Dylan album.
British Steel - Judas Priest:
This is the birth of true heavy metal. The sound comes out much grittier and there is pretty much no noticeable blues or punk elements that still existed in most heavy metal/hard rock albums to date. To contradict what Red stated, my source indicates the album was recorded at Ringo Starr's home, Tittenhurst Park. We'd have to call Rob Halford for the right answer. Looking back, how did people not know he was gay? I guess leather wasn't such a give away then. Awesome album overall, very patriotic. With the help of Iron Maiden (who was their touring partner for many years), Priest ushered in the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). "Grinder" and "United" are great live songs!
Boston - Boston:
Not a down moment through the entire album. It is pretty much their greatest hits right from the start. It was recorded in Tom Scholz basement studio with some trickery to make the record company think it was done in a proper studio in LA. Scholz sounds like a major control freak, which alot of good artists are. It is amazing to think they came out of the gate with all this great material. It usually leads to major sophomore woes, which is kind of the case with Boston as well. There really isn't a hidden gem here, they are all great and pretty well known.
Bookends - Simon & Garfunkel:
I found this on vinyl, otherwise I probably wouldn't have it. I don't listen to it alot, I really have to be in the mood for these two. The songs are well done and all, just usually a little slow for me. "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" and "The Boxer" are amazing songs not on this album, but ones I would find time to listen to if available.
Who's the Boss?
I don't claim to be the biggest Bruce Springsteen fan, but I do enjoy plenty of his music. He is a great showman and a very hard working man. I don't know that I will ever own a specific album by him, I just have some random hits and one that Red gave me from an older CD collection we did. I love "Born To Run", that is probably a good representation of his stage presence. Maybe I should give "Born in the USA" a try with his insightful lyrics and deeper meanings.
Oh, That's Them?!
I think most people have had the same moment Red describes when talking about "Song 2" by Blur. It is in commercials and everywhere else so that everyone knows it, but has no idea what it is called or who sang it. A good way to make alot of money through royalties without having to be famous.
Where The Hell Are They? (There are 2 glaring snubs in this group)
Breakfast In America - Supertramp:
This is one of the most amazing albums I have ever heard. It is the band's top seller and I am royally pissed it wasn't in this book. Although, I listened to it this weekend to prepare (since I knew it was coming alphabetically) and I had this feeling in the pit of my stomach that this jackass, who puts in every single thing Brian Eno has ever pissed on, would leave this one off. The cover is iconic (although I did trash it back in our album cover list, it is still cool). "Gone Hollywood" opens the album in good fashion and with "Lords Is It Mine" & "Child of Vision" are the hidden gems. My interpretation of the lyrics from most of the album, especially the title track, "Take The Long Way Home", "Gone Hollywood" and "Goodbye Stranger", seem to hint at the amazement of these Brits once they came to America and then kind of a scorning of the attitude out in Hollywood. "If we only had time for you." That seems to be the treatment they got by the author.
Bringing Down The Horse - The Wallflowers:
This was their breakout in 1996, and is a personal favorite of mine and Red. It was a huge success and proved in some rights that Jakob could live in the shadow of his father and that legacy. It is hard to pick gems when you listen to every song all the way through. I could see how someone would think this isn't a necessary album to hear before you die, but I think the majority would vote for its inclusion. If anything, it is a good time piece for the mid 90's. "One Headlight" kind of has that lost in life feeling that was pretty prevalent during those times.
Well, I Like Them (two overlooks that maybe only I will agree with)
Bridges To Babylon - The Rolling Stones:
This was the first actual Stones album that I bought (not a greatest hits). I had fallen in love with the lead single "Anybody Seen My Baby?". The album is amazing and showed me some different sides of the Stones that I didn't know existed. "Lowdown", "Already Over Me", "You Don't Have To Mean It", "Saint of Me" are all gems. It is amazing that all these years later, Mick & Keith were still putting out such quality. I would recommend it to anyone. Red should remember this album, we listened to it quite a bit.
Brave New World - Iron Maiden:
There are much better Maiden albums that will hopefully end up on this list. This one is probably a little self indulgent on my end, but I don't care. This marked a new era for Maiden as they expanded into a 6 piece band and welcomed back past members Bruce Dickenson & Adrian Smith. It became a resurgence in their stardom around the world and reminded people how great Maiden was. The songs are long (6 minutes or more) with lots of time changes, huge vocals from Dickinson, extended jams and amazing solos. Everything you always loved about other Maiden albums. They immediately followed this up with a live album "Rock In Rio" from the supporting tour.
In Snake's Collection
Bringing It All Back Home - Bob Dylan:
We are moving backwards in time from his selections last week. This is truly the transitional album from the political folk singer, to the eclectic, visionary, rock songwriter that Dylan would become. The first side is an electrified slap in the face and the second rescinds back into his acoustic ways. His writing style starts to take shape as he becomes more abstract and introspective. Alot of his lyrics give a clue to the new direction he wants to take as well as serving as a guide for his fans to follow his feelings and ideas. "Maggie's Farm" is a metaphor for the folk music scene and how he isn't working for them no more. "Bob Dylan's 115th Dream" is this crazy surreal experience that I don't have enough words to describe. "It's Alright Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" gives the most incite into his new approach with some of his most amazing lyrics if you can keep up. "So don't fear if you hear / A foreign sound to your ear / It's alright, Ma, I'm only sighing." is a line from the song that is a guide to his listeners not to be afraid of his new musical direction. I said last week that "Tangled Up In Blue" is my favorite Dylan song, well "It's All Over Now Baby Blue" is second on that list and kinda has the same feel. Lovers parting ways long after their relationship has really ended. It has been said this is another metaphor for his departure from the Folk scene. Another truly amazing Dylan album.
British Steel - Judas Priest:
This is the birth of true heavy metal. The sound comes out much grittier and there is pretty much no noticeable blues or punk elements that still existed in most heavy metal/hard rock albums to date. To contradict what Red stated, my source indicates the album was recorded at Ringo Starr's home, Tittenhurst Park. We'd have to call Rob Halford for the right answer. Looking back, how did people not know he was gay? I guess leather wasn't such a give away then. Awesome album overall, very patriotic. With the help of Iron Maiden (who was their touring partner for many years), Priest ushered in the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). "Grinder" and "United" are great live songs!
Boston - Boston:
Not a down moment through the entire album. It is pretty much their greatest hits right from the start. It was recorded in Tom Scholz basement studio with some trickery to make the record company think it was done in a proper studio in LA. Scholz sounds like a major control freak, which alot of good artists are. It is amazing to think they came out of the gate with all this great material. It usually leads to major sophomore woes, which is kind of the case with Boston as well. There really isn't a hidden gem here, they are all great and pretty well known.
Bookends - Simon & Garfunkel:
I found this on vinyl, otherwise I probably wouldn't have it. I don't listen to it alot, I really have to be in the mood for these two. The songs are well done and all, just usually a little slow for me. "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" and "The Boxer" are amazing songs not on this album, but ones I would find time to listen to if available.
Who's the Boss?
I don't claim to be the biggest Bruce Springsteen fan, but I do enjoy plenty of his music. He is a great showman and a very hard working man. I don't know that I will ever own a specific album by him, I just have some random hits and one that Red gave me from an older CD collection we did. I love "Born To Run", that is probably a good representation of his stage presence. Maybe I should give "Born in the USA" a try with his insightful lyrics and deeper meanings.
Oh, That's Them?!
I think most people have had the same moment Red describes when talking about "Song 2" by Blur. It is in commercials and everywhere else so that everyone knows it, but has no idea what it is called or who sang it. A good way to make alot of money through royalties without having to be famous.
Where The Hell Are They? (There are 2 glaring snubs in this group)
Breakfast In America - Supertramp:
This is one of the most amazing albums I have ever heard. It is the band's top seller and I am royally pissed it wasn't in this book. Although, I listened to it this weekend to prepare (since I knew it was coming alphabetically) and I had this feeling in the pit of my stomach that this jackass, who puts in every single thing Brian Eno has ever pissed on, would leave this one off. The cover is iconic (although I did trash it back in our album cover list, it is still cool). "Gone Hollywood" opens the album in good fashion and with "Lords Is It Mine" & "Child of Vision" are the hidden gems. My interpretation of the lyrics from most of the album, especially the title track, "Take The Long Way Home", "Gone Hollywood" and "Goodbye Stranger", seem to hint at the amazement of these Brits once they came to America and then kind of a scorning of the attitude out in Hollywood. "If we only had time for you." That seems to be the treatment they got by the author.
Bringing Down The Horse - The Wallflowers:
This was their breakout in 1996, and is a personal favorite of mine and Red. It was a huge success and proved in some rights that Jakob could live in the shadow of his father and that legacy. It is hard to pick gems when you listen to every song all the way through. I could see how someone would think this isn't a necessary album to hear before you die, but I think the majority would vote for its inclusion. If anything, it is a good time piece for the mid 90's. "One Headlight" kind of has that lost in life feeling that was pretty prevalent during those times.
Well, I Like Them (two overlooks that maybe only I will agree with)
Bridges To Babylon - The Rolling Stones:
This was the first actual Stones album that I bought (not a greatest hits). I had fallen in love with the lead single "Anybody Seen My Baby?". The album is amazing and showed me some different sides of the Stones that I didn't know existed. "Lowdown", "Already Over Me", "You Don't Have To Mean It", "Saint of Me" are all gems. It is amazing that all these years later, Mick & Keith were still putting out such quality. I would recommend it to anyone. Red should remember this album, we listened to it quite a bit.
Brave New World - Iron Maiden:
There are much better Maiden albums that will hopefully end up on this list. This one is probably a little self indulgent on my end, but I don't care. This marked a new era for Maiden as they expanded into a 6 piece band and welcomed back past members Bruce Dickenson & Adrian Smith. It became a resurgence in their stardom around the world and reminded people how great Maiden was. The songs are long (6 minutes or more) with lots of time changes, huge vocals from Dickinson, extended jams and amazing solos. Everything you always loved about other Maiden albums. They immediately followed this up with a live album "Rock In Rio" from the supporting tour.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
1001 Albums (101-115): Blur - British Steel
Note: A pretty good group with I think for a couple possible sleepers toward the bottom of the list to find their way up if I ever get a chance to listen to them fully. There are 12 more 'B' albums, so we'll break into the 'Cs' next week.
Born to Run (1975) by Bruce Springsteen
I’ll let this also serve as my shameless plug for the week. Buy this album. “Born to Run” is a prototypical rock song; the album is a combination of everything else great about pop music. For years, Springsteen was sold as the next Dylan. This album proved that wasn’t who he was at all. Dylan was a folk singer and a songwriter. Springsteen was a performer and a songwriter. This album bursts with guitars, pianos, trumpets and drums. While there is always dark sadness behind many of Springsteen’s lyrics, there is also the fighting spirit not succumb to that sadness.
Two for One
Bookends (1968) and Bridge Over Troubled Water (1970) by Simon and Garfunkel
Bookends reads like a greatest hits album. From the iconic “Mrs. Robinson” to the wistful “America,” the catchy “A Hazy Shade of Winter,” and the innuendo of “Fakin’ It,” this album delivers tunes that defined a generation of intellectuals. Bridge Over Troubled Water is the graceful swansong for the duo. With maybe the only exception being the “So Long, Frank Lloyd Wright” a jab by Simon toward Garfunkel, who studied architecture in college and missed some the recording to act in a movie. Another long list of classics run by on the track listing of this one.
No Doubt About It
Born in the USA (1984) by Bruce Springsteen
I know I shill Springsteen enough that it’s probably bad that I don’t own this album. I may actually look for it on vinyl. I think it’d fit well in that collection. There are seven top-10 singles on this album. There are bands that hang around a long time without getting that many in a career. People always confuse this album as a patriotic statement. Give another listen to the lyrics to the title track and to “Dancing in the Dark.” One condemns a country. The other condemns an industry pushing him to write singles. “My Hometown” and “I’m On Fire” are the gems for me from this album.
Boston (1976) by Boston
This is the signature album for soft rock bands. “More Than A Feeling,” continues to get plenty of air play while other classics like “Rock and Roll Band,” “Smokin,” and “Let Me Take You Home Tonight” have helped this album sell 17 million in sales over the last 30 years. On a side note, Aerosmith let Boston use their equipment to record parts of this album.
Bringing It All Back Home (1965) by Bob Dylan
Mr. Zimmerman makes his third appearance in two weeks. This album is Dylan on the cusp of greatness. He hits hard with “Subterranean Homesick Blues” and nails “Mr. Tambourine Man.” The rest of the album may be something I should check out.
British Steel (1980) by Judas Priest
No doubt this is the definitive album for this British Metal band. It spawned hits like “Living After Midnight,” and “Breaking the Law.” It also is loaded with a lot of hard rocking, great to see live tracks. It was also recorded at John Lennon’s former country estate outside of London. That’s pretty cool too.
Remember That Time
Blur (1997) by Blur
I couldn’t think of why I knew Blur until I looked up “Song 2” and played it. It’s that one with a little infectious guitar hook and the “Wahoo” popping up throughout the chorus. Not a bad tune, not sure if the rest of the album is much.
Go Away!
The Boatman’s Call – Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
This guy is popping up a lot like Brian Eno. I don’t know if he’s good or not, but I haven’t heard anything that great from him to warrant this much attention. This another breakup album though, I feel a theme for this week.
The Best of the Rest
Bright Flight (2001) by Silver Jews
I enjoy this band’s name. Also, after to listening to a few tunes, I like their sound. It kind of reminds of Velvet Underground without maybe trying to be so artsy. Lead singer has a cool deep voice.
The Rest
Bone Machine (1992) by Tom Waits
I’ve always been tempted to buy a Tom Waits machine. There’s a raw craziness about his style, but I’ve never been brave enough to see if I liked a whole album of it. “Hold On” from a later album is a great song though.
Bongo Rock (1973) by Michael Viner’s Incredible Bongo Band
This is a group of session drummers that came together to make a soundtrack for the “B” movie The Thing With Two Heads. Apparently it’s been sampled a ton by everyone. I think I just sampled it.
Born To Be With You (1975) by Dion
Bronx natives Dion and Phil Spector united here to release an album that panned initially by critics, but later applauded by artists like Pete Townshend and Primal Scream’s Billy Gillespie.
Bossanova (1990) by Pixies
Sounds like another breakup album. I’ve heard the name Pixies a lot, but know little about them. They sound like a punk band that likes to jam a little more.
Boy In Da Corner (2003) by Dizzee Rascal
Rap straight outta London. Angry teen rap from across the big blue sea, might be worth a listen. Maybe.
Bright Flight (2001) by Silver Jews
I enjoy this band’s name. Also, after to listening to a few tunes, I like their sound. It kind of reminds of Velvet Underground without maybe trying to be so artsy. Lead singer has a cool deep voice.
The Rest
Bone Machine (1992) by Tom Waits
I’ve always been tempted to buy a Tom Waits machine. There’s a raw craziness about his style, but I’ve never been brave enough to see if I liked a whole album of it. “Hold On” from a later album is a great song though.
Bongo Rock (1973) by Michael Viner’s Incredible Bongo Band
This is a group of session drummers that came together to make a soundtrack for the “B” movie The Thing With Two Heads. Apparently it’s been sampled a ton by everyone. I think I just sampled it.
Born To Be With You (1975) by Dion
Bronx natives Dion and Phil Spector united here to release an album that panned initially by critics, but later applauded by artists like Pete Townshend and Primal Scream’s Billy Gillespie.
Bossanova (1990) by Pixies
Sounds like another breakup album. I’ve heard the name Pixies a lot, but know little about them. They sound like a punk band that likes to jam a little more.
Boy In Da Corner (2003) by Dizzee Rascal
Rap straight outta London. Angry teen rap from across the big blue sea, might be worth a listen. Maybe.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Red's CD Project Part 9
Note: Well folks we continue our slow descent into hell with a couple interesting pieces this week. When I go back through and do an edit of this when its finished, I'll probably need to add a some time between the beginning of the story and these segments, especially the second one here, to make it a little more realistic.
Disc 2
Track 7Radio Nowhere
Bruce Springsteeen
Magic
Just searchin’ for a world with some soul
Abdul woke with a scream and sweat beading at his brow. He jumped from his bed and looked up toward his window. The sky outside was a dark purple and transitioning to a blue. In his dream, there had been a sajada – a beautiful one with vibrant green and blues and an intricate design. He knew that prayer rug. It was the favorite of his close friend’s Jaleels. One his mother had given him before he left for America.
Jaleels was an Iman, the leader of Abdul’s mosque, and a peaceful man. A man that nobody, even Christians, could find reason to dislike.
Jaleels had not been in Abduls dream, only his sajada. It was laid out on a muddy turf and in the distance the sun was peaking off the eastern horizon. In front of the rug was a gap in the ground, a hole that dropped down and out of sight of his dream’s eye.
In the middle of the rug was a pool of thick, red liquid. It was blood and as his dream zoomed in, he could see that it was smeared all over of the rug.
“They got him,” Abdul whispered thinking of the dream as he stood in the cell. “They got him.”
Tears burst to his eyes as he fell to the floor in prayer.
“Allah, please hear me,” Abdul wailed. “Please, I beg answer me.”
The cell, the jail, everything was silent.
“Not my friend. Please Allah, comfort me,” Abdul begged and pressed his nose to the floor.
Minutes passed and it grew lighter outside of his cell window. There was not even a clock to tick away the seconds as they turned to minutes.
Then it started up.
“Hssss.” It came from outside the cell yet echoed off every wall and bounced around Abdul’s ears.
“Hssss.”
“I hear it now,” Abdul said raising his head. “I hear it well.”
For all these months, Abdul had ignored the obvious answer to his separation from Allah. The infidels were silencing his God; they were muting him from answering Abdul’s prayers. There was only one cure for this disease.
“Jihad.” Abdul said and stood up.
Disc 2
Track 8
Square One
Tom Petty
Highway Companion
Last time through I hid my tracks. So well I could not get back.
Mary didn’t think she was going to make it this time. She awoke and felt the urge swell up in her belly and then rush toward her throat. She only managed a quick glance at the red numbers on her alarm clock, which read “5:01” in big numerals and “a.m.” in small letters in the right hand corner, before she made a dash from her bed to the door. Down the hallway and into the bathroom, she switched the light on and made a dive for the toilet as a stream of vomit shot out from behind her lips. That was all that came out, but she wretched for a good 10 minutes. Tears ran down from her eyes and her hair fell in front of her face.
After lying next to toilet for several minutes, she managed to stand up and get to the sink. Above the sink was a mirror and she saw how bloodshot her eyes looked. She washed off her face and fumbled for her toothbrush.
“That’s three mornings in a row, Mary,” the voice made Mary jump and drop the toothbrush into the sink.
“Jesus, Mom.” Mary picked up the toothbrush and continued to scrub. Her mother wearing a pink nightgown and a pair of bunny slippers was standing in the doorway. Her wrinkles and frazzled hair from sleeping made her look 10-years older.
“You know what this is, don’t you?” Her mom’s eyes studied Mary.
“Mom.”
“Look, don’t you think you at least should get it checked out.”
“I suppose.”
“Are you going to tell him?”
“No. Not yet.”
Disc 2
Track 9
Coconut Skins
Damien Rice
9
Tell them God just dropped by to forgive our sins and relieve us our doubt.
The first splashes of orange hit the eastern horizon and Hal looked down at his watch. He could feel fatigue in his bones and sleep tempting his eyes to close. It had been 10 minutes and the guy still hadn’t stopped praying.
He called it “fajr” meaning pre-dawn and begged him the entire drive back to allow him to perform this rite before meeting Allah.
At the time, Hal figured the prayer would take a couple seconds and he’d take care of business quickly and then get some sleep before going into work. Instead, the prayer dragged on and on, as the man knelt on top of the brightly colored rug he had brought along. Hal still thought it funny, but this man seemed absolutely prepared for this moment. It’s like at any point in his life, the man thought that death might come to his door hours before sun up, threaten him at gunpoint and drive him to the middle of nowhere. He begged to bring the rug and clutched it to his chest the entire drive here.
It was as admirable as it was absurd.
Up and down, the man went while chanting lines in Arabic. Every time, he stood up Hal thought it was finally time to end this. Instead, the man burst into a line and fell back to the rug.
Finally, the man stood looked to the right and said “Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah.” He turned to the left and repeated the saying. Then he turned around and faced Hal.
“What did that last part mean?”
“Peace be upon you and God’s blessings.”
“Hmmm. That took a little longer than I would have liked.”
“Prayer is an offering to Allah. We do it at least five times each day. Do you not wish to please your God? Do you not make him an offering?”
“Well, my man, there’s only one kind of offering that guys like me make that God seems to take much notice of.”
A peculiar look came over the man’s face.
“Qabil?”
Hal smiled.
“You bet.”
Hal thrashed forward bringing the stone down on the right side of the man’s face above his eye. Hal heard a crack and a popping sound. The man fell to his knees on the rug, his eyeball dropped on it moments after. The man let out screams of pain.
“Doe Allah hear you now? I think he does and I think he meant this to happen.”
Hal brought the stone down three more times on the back of the man’s head till he was silent. A pool of blood formed on top of the rug.
Hal walked over to his car and retrieved the Polaroid camera he kept in there for crime scenes. He snapped a couple shots like he had his first sacrifice then rolled him into the hole. He half expected the earth to burp after receiving its meal.
He filled the hole and then went up to the house to get an hour or two of sleep.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Snake's Encore: Bitches Brew - The Blueprint
In Snake's Collection:
Blood on the Tracks - Bob Dylan:
This one is listed first because I feel it is the best of the collection and Dylan's best album ever. I had always heard this referred to as his last great album until 'Time Out of Mind' was released. It feels like a return to form for Dylan relying on acoustic guitars and blues/country rhythms. My favorite Dylan songs always seem to frame around his heartbreak rather than his political views. I listen to this album and feel this is his best vocal work. He seems more in control of his voice and the sadness really presses through at times. 'Tangled Up In Blue' is my all time favorite and kicks off this album with a bang. He tells stories throughout the album rather than making points. 'You're a Big Girl' and 'You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome' are fantastic songs, but 'Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts' is the gem of the album. This nine minute story built on a classic country rhythm with an old west setting is full of imagery and hidden meaning. I still can't quite figure the whole thing out. Red should really just read the lyrics to that song.
Black Sabbath Vol. 4 - Black Sabbath:
The more I listen to this album, the more I love it. As it was previously pointed out, big drug use during this time. 'Snowblind' is a cocaine reference that had to be edited because Ozzy shouted cocaine after every verse. The heavy stuff is in there, 'Snowblind', 'Tomorrow's Dream' & 'Supernaut'. They also began experimenting with different sounds. 'Changes' is more of a soft ballad with a very heartfelt performance from Ozzy. 'Laguna Sunrise' is a hidden gem, an acoustic instrumental that is very soft and sweet sounding like it is from Led Zeppelin III. 'St. Vitus Dance' has this amazing hook in it that isn't necessarily dark, but just amazing guitar playing. Frank Zappa has said this is the greatest rock album ever, because he loved the guitar throughout.
Blonde on Blonde - Bob Dylan:
Seems like most people consider this to be Dylan's greatest. There are alot of hits on here and it was a pivotal time for Dylan as a follow up to coming out electric. 'Absolutely Sweet Marie', 'Visions of Johanna', & 'Stuck Inside of Mobile With the Memphis Blues Again' are pure gold. Probably the one issue is that it is a double album. It is alot of information to consume. This album also highlights the formation of 'The Band' behind Dylan. It is an amazing album, I just connect with 'Blood on the Tracks' better.
Black Sabbath - Black Sabbath:
This started it all and became a framing point for so many metal bands to come. 'The Wizard' is probably my all time favorite Sabbath song, influenced by Gandalf from the "Lord of the Rings". They came out firing with some dark subject matter and the suggestion at the occult probably was a better buzz builder than not. The album was recording live in 2 days adding to the overall vibe and sound. They nailed it the first time.
Got It Right
Blind Faith - Blind Faith
I've always read and heard the buzz around this album and the super group behind it. I have it and it isn't anything special at all. It was always just about buzz and controversy from a stupid cover. I am glad this one did not make the list.
Transformation
Blood Sugar Sex Magik - Red Hot Chili Peppers
This album marked the height of their creative genius in the early 90's. This would be the heaviest they ever got and kick out their biggest commercial success. Then, it marked the end of the era for them. John Frusciante quit the band. He would later return and spurn a rebirth of the Pepper's and probably their best work by far. But those albums will come later.
This Shit Is Messed Up
Bitches Brew - Miles Davis
This is a landmark Fusion/Progressive album. I give Miles all the credit he is due as a genius. I enjoy 'Birth of the Cool' and 'Kind of Blue'. I tried to listen to this once and man was it F'd up. It was crazy and over my head. Of course, alot of the stuff I listen to now made me feel that way earlier in my youth. Maybe I would get it now, but it is out there. Unlike anything you've ever heard and pretty amazing if you can grasp it.
Snake's Homework
Black Monk Time - The Monks
Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde - The Pharcyde
Black Metal - Venom
I like what Red wrote about these. I wish I had more time this week to prepare and give these a better listen. I am gonna have to keep tabs on my homework assignments and try to revisit them down the road. These sounds pretty interesting.
Final Thoughts (a la Jerry Springer)
'Be good to each other' just kidding! Overall this was a half and half group. Half really good and half kinda 'eh'. Still this was the most personal experience I have had with a single group, so that was fun.
Blood on the Tracks - Bob Dylan:
This one is listed first because I feel it is the best of the collection and Dylan's best album ever. I had always heard this referred to as his last great album until 'Time Out of Mind' was released. It feels like a return to form for Dylan relying on acoustic guitars and blues/country rhythms. My favorite Dylan songs always seem to frame around his heartbreak rather than his political views. I listen to this album and feel this is his best vocal work. He seems more in control of his voice and the sadness really presses through at times. 'Tangled Up In Blue' is my all time favorite and kicks off this album with a bang. He tells stories throughout the album rather than making points. 'You're a Big Girl' and 'You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome' are fantastic songs, but 'Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts' is the gem of the album. This nine minute story built on a classic country rhythm with an old west setting is full of imagery and hidden meaning. I still can't quite figure the whole thing out. Red should really just read the lyrics to that song.
Black Sabbath Vol. 4 - Black Sabbath:
The more I listen to this album, the more I love it. As it was previously pointed out, big drug use during this time. 'Snowblind' is a cocaine reference that had to be edited because Ozzy shouted cocaine after every verse. The heavy stuff is in there, 'Snowblind', 'Tomorrow's Dream' & 'Supernaut'. They also began experimenting with different sounds. 'Changes' is more of a soft ballad with a very heartfelt performance from Ozzy. 'Laguna Sunrise' is a hidden gem, an acoustic instrumental that is very soft and sweet sounding like it is from Led Zeppelin III. 'St. Vitus Dance' has this amazing hook in it that isn't necessarily dark, but just amazing guitar playing. Frank Zappa has said this is the greatest rock album ever, because he loved the guitar throughout.
Blonde on Blonde - Bob Dylan:
Seems like most people consider this to be Dylan's greatest. There are alot of hits on here and it was a pivotal time for Dylan as a follow up to coming out electric. 'Absolutely Sweet Marie', 'Visions of Johanna', & 'Stuck Inside of Mobile With the Memphis Blues Again' are pure gold. Probably the one issue is that it is a double album. It is alot of information to consume. This album also highlights the formation of 'The Band' behind Dylan. It is an amazing album, I just connect with 'Blood on the Tracks' better.
Black Sabbath - Black Sabbath:
This started it all and became a framing point for so many metal bands to come. 'The Wizard' is probably my all time favorite Sabbath song, influenced by Gandalf from the "Lord of the Rings". They came out firing with some dark subject matter and the suggestion at the occult probably was a better buzz builder than not. The album was recording live in 2 days adding to the overall vibe and sound. They nailed it the first time.
Got It Right
Blind Faith - Blind Faith
I've always read and heard the buzz around this album and the super group behind it. I have it and it isn't anything special at all. It was always just about buzz and controversy from a stupid cover. I am glad this one did not make the list.
Transformation
Blood Sugar Sex Magik - Red Hot Chili Peppers
This album marked the height of their creative genius in the early 90's. This would be the heaviest they ever got and kick out their biggest commercial success. Then, it marked the end of the era for them. John Frusciante quit the band. He would later return and spurn a rebirth of the Pepper's and probably their best work by far. But those albums will come later.
This Shit Is Messed Up
Bitches Brew - Miles Davis
This is a landmark Fusion/Progressive album. I give Miles all the credit he is due as a genius. I enjoy 'Birth of the Cool' and 'Kind of Blue'. I tried to listen to this once and man was it F'd up. It was crazy and over my head. Of course, alot of the stuff I listen to now made me feel that way earlier in my youth. Maybe I would get it now, but it is out there. Unlike anything you've ever heard and pretty amazing if you can grasp it.
Snake's Homework
Black Monk Time - The Monks
Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde - The Pharcyde
Black Metal - Venom
I like what Red wrote about these. I wish I had more time this week to prepare and give these a better listen. I am gonna have to keep tabs on my homework assignments and try to revisit them down the road. These sounds pretty interesting.
Final Thoughts (a la Jerry Springer)
'Be good to each other' just kidding! Overall this was a half and half group. Half really good and half kinda 'eh'. Still this was the most personal experience I have had with a single group, so that was fun.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
1001 Albums (86-100): Bitches Brew - The Blueprint
Note: I struggled thinking of things to write this week. I think overall it's a pretty strong group. Just not one that I have a lot of experience with.
None – This makes me a sad panda.
Red’s Shameless Plug
Blood Sugar Sex Magik (1991) by the Red Chili Peppers
I pop this on here because I remember when this album came out and for briefly the Peppers were the biggest band in the world. Didn’t it seem then that this would be about as good as it gets from this group. I mean, they were kind of gimmicky with wearing nothing but socks over their dongs on stage and such. But we were wrong, they plastered up a couple good albums after this and solidified their spot in Rock’s upper echelon.
Two for One (A couple artists make the rare double appearances in the same group)
Black Sabbath (1970) and Black Sabbath Vol. 4 (1972) by Black Sabbath
I’ll probably let the Snake handle these two albums. He got more into Sabbath than I ever did. The first album here seems to be a no brainer as the first heavy metal album. The second seems to pay homage of how a great band can make great music even when severely altered by drugs and alcohol.
Blonde on Blonde (1966) and Blood on the Tracks (1975) by Bob Dylan
Blonde on Blonde is a staple album in the rock world with iconic songs like “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35,” “I Want You,” and “Just Like a Woman.” Dylan’s beginning to change his sound here and it comes during the backlash from his using the electric guitar. Nearly 10 years later, Dylan released Blood on the Tracks after a few albums that were poorly received. This album is said to be a conversation with his then wife Sara, as their marriage starts to fall apart. Great tunes like “Tangled Up in Blue,” and “Shelter from the Storm” highlight this album.
No Doubters
Bitches Brew (1970) by Miles Davis
This group picks up where we left off last week with Mile Davis twisting jazz, be-bop and a long list of other musical genres and fusing them together. Another classic album from the father of fusion that is worth giving a listen too.
Remember that one time
Blood, Sweat, and Tears (1969) by Blood, Sweat, and Tears
This won album of the year in 1969 with its hooks and classic tunes like “Spinning Wheel,” and “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy.” This is a band with a lot of controversy surrounding it that hit it big with an album.
Up for Grabs (I am not sure where to pop these)
Blue (1971) by Joni Mitchell
Mitchell is a legendary folk songwriter, but I haven’t spent much time listening to her stuff. Sometimes, though her voice wears on me a little. I am not sure what it is about it, but I can’t stand it for very long.
The Blueprint (2001) by Jay-Z
This album was released on September 11, 2001, and managed not to get lost in the frantic events circling the country. Jay-Z seems to be a rapper with a sound business plan and he knows how to make an album that’s a cut above the rest of the rap crowd.
The Best of the Rest
Black Monk Time (1966) by The Monks
This is the precursor to punk with a lot of the future movement ideals evident in the lyrics and some punk hooks.
The Rest
Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde (1992) by The Pharcyde
This is rap that doesn’t take itself so seriously. This album also has skits on it that might be worth a listen.
Black Metal (1982) by Venom
Purposely heavy and dark, although unlike the groups that followed they meant their dark undertones as jokes.
The Black Saint and The Sinner Lady (1963) by Charles Mingus
This is some more jazz, which if that is your cup of tea, then you might like this.
Blood and Chocolate (1986) by Elvis Costello and the Attractions
This doesn’t sound like an album that even Elvis Costello really liked. Figure that out.
Blue Lines (1991) by Massive Attack
The book makes this sound like the second coming of Jesus. I think they shot a little too high with their evaluation.
Blood, Sweat, and Tears (1969) by Blood, Sweat, and Tears
This won album of the year in 1969 with its hooks and classic tunes like “Spinning Wheel,” and “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy.” This is a band with a lot of controversy surrounding it that hit it big with an album.
Up for Grabs (I am not sure where to pop these)
Blue (1971) by Joni Mitchell
Mitchell is a legendary folk songwriter, but I haven’t spent much time listening to her stuff. Sometimes, though her voice wears on me a little. I am not sure what it is about it, but I can’t stand it for very long.
The Blueprint (2001) by Jay-Z
This album was released on September 11, 2001, and managed not to get lost in the frantic events circling the country. Jay-Z seems to be a rapper with a sound business plan and he knows how to make an album that’s a cut above the rest of the rap crowd.
The Best of the Rest
Black Monk Time (1966) by The Monks
This is the precursor to punk with a lot of the future movement ideals evident in the lyrics and some punk hooks.
The Rest
Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde (1992) by The Pharcyde
This is rap that doesn’t take itself so seriously. This album also has skits on it that might be worth a listen.
Black Metal (1982) by Venom
Purposely heavy and dark, although unlike the groups that followed they meant their dark undertones as jokes.
The Black Saint and The Sinner Lady (1963) by Charles Mingus
This is some more jazz, which if that is your cup of tea, then you might like this.
Blood and Chocolate (1986) by Elvis Costello and the Attractions
This doesn’t sound like an album that even Elvis Costello really liked. Figure that out.
Blue Lines (1991) by Massive Attack
The book makes this sound like the second coming of Jesus. I think they shot a little too high with their evaluation.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Trolling The Web - New vs Old
Sports.yahoo.com is a pretty good place to find your sports news. Probably the best feature is that it integrates sporting news with your fantasy team to give you excellent updates on injuries, stats, etc.
What caught my eye on the site was this headline: No more Wrigley? Cubs ace asks for a new ballpark. Carlos Zambrano made some statements this weekend while enjoying the new Yankee Stadium about how nice it was. Of course, a player is going to want the coziest, most up-to-date club house. We all like a little luxury. The article was quick to add in Lou Pinella's comments on how great Wrigley Field is.
This debate has probably heated up even more recently do to the pending sale of the Cubs from the Tribune Co. to the Ricketts family. There were talks at one time that Wrigley would be sold to the city of Chicago, then it is part of the overall sale, then there were rumors of restricts on moving the Cubs.
I've been to Wrigley several times, but I can't say that I have actually been a part of the neighborhood. It does have some strange appeal that I cannot describe. Majestic is the only word that comes to mind. Still, would people really stop going to Cubs games with Wrigley was gone? Not if the new field helped them maintain good teams!
In the end, this is the same old debate on what is more important. Wrigley stays because the fans love it, at least that is the reason always given. But I can say as a die-hard Cubs fans, that I would much prefer a World Series title or two over a ballpark. It has long been discussed that Wrigley is part of the reason the Cubs cannot win. The ballpark is small and the seating is limited. The place has been falling apart for awhile now. The team loses revenue to rooftop partners and even with the recent expansion in the bleachers, I don't see how they can top much more than the 3.3 million attendance figures of last year. Plus, it has always been a fight with the residential area for game times and the amount of night games the Cubs are allowed to play.
Now, I am not claiming to know for sure, because I have never played pro baseball, but it seems that the players prefer night games. Everyone else plays mostly night games. The sun, the shadows, the early rises usually don't favor the players.
Parking for a Cubs game is ridiculous. You have to pay $20+ to park in the corner of a Taco Bell, and then, wait hours to be able to get out. The area bars are nice, but a new ballpark could present the same amount of options.
I've gone back and forth with myself on these issues numerous times. Still, it seems like a new stadium out in the 'burbs would allow for more night games, better player treatment, more fan options, better parking, more seating and still a good atmosphere. They built an updated replica of Yankee Stadium. Why couldn't they build a new park for the Cubs with ivy in the outfield, a big scoreboard, etc?
Change is hard for anyone to swallow. Still, monuments have their time. I am not saying tear down Wrigley. They should sell it to the city. Then, it can be used for city baseball, museum tours, etc. I am sure it will still be a good attraction and bring revenue to the city. I believe this could be change for the better and help maintain the Cubs as contenders for a World Series every year.
What caught my eye on the site was this headline: No more Wrigley? Cubs ace asks for a new ballpark. Carlos Zambrano made some statements this weekend while enjoying the new Yankee Stadium about how nice it was. Of course, a player is going to want the coziest, most up-to-date club house. We all like a little luxury. The article was quick to add in Lou Pinella's comments on how great Wrigley Field is.
This debate has probably heated up even more recently do to the pending sale of the Cubs from the Tribune Co. to the Ricketts family. There were talks at one time that Wrigley would be sold to the city of Chicago, then it is part of the overall sale, then there were rumors of restricts on moving the Cubs.
I've been to Wrigley several times, but I can't say that I have actually been a part of the neighborhood. It does have some strange appeal that I cannot describe. Majestic is the only word that comes to mind. Still, would people really stop going to Cubs games with Wrigley was gone? Not if the new field helped them maintain good teams!
In the end, this is the same old debate on what is more important. Wrigley stays because the fans love it, at least that is the reason always given. But I can say as a die-hard Cubs fans, that I would much prefer a World Series title or two over a ballpark. It has long been discussed that Wrigley is part of the reason the Cubs cannot win. The ballpark is small and the seating is limited. The place has been falling apart for awhile now. The team loses revenue to rooftop partners and even with the recent expansion in the bleachers, I don't see how they can top much more than the 3.3 million attendance figures of last year. Plus, it has always been a fight with the residential area for game times and the amount of night games the Cubs are allowed to play.
Now, I am not claiming to know for sure, because I have never played pro baseball, but it seems that the players prefer night games. Everyone else plays mostly night games. The sun, the shadows, the early rises usually don't favor the players.
Parking for a Cubs game is ridiculous. You have to pay $20+ to park in the corner of a Taco Bell, and then, wait hours to be able to get out. The area bars are nice, but a new ballpark could present the same amount of options.
I've gone back and forth with myself on these issues numerous times. Still, it seems like a new stadium out in the 'burbs would allow for more night games, better player treatment, more fan options, better parking, more seating and still a good atmosphere. They built an updated replica of Yankee Stadium. Why couldn't they build a new park for the Cubs with ivy in the outfield, a big scoreboard, etc?
Change is hard for anyone to swallow. Still, monuments have their time. I am not saying tear down Wrigley. They should sell it to the city. Then, it can be used for city baseball, museum tours, etc. I am sure it will still be a good attraction and bring revenue to the city. I believe this could be change for the better and help maintain the Cubs as contenders for a World Series every year.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Red's CD Project Part 8
Note: This was one of the harder parts to get down. The second section here I was trying to be careful and precise with what was being said. Then I was just blocked on the last section. Hopefully it turned out OK.
Disc 2
Track 4
Nearly Beloved
The Wallflowers
Rebel, Sweetheart
You play your fiddle, baby, I’ll play dumb
They both wore dark suits and straight, solid-colored ties. Hal thought to be completely cliché the pair of agents should have been wearing oversized sunglasses even when indoors. The taller one, Mick, wore his short hair gelled firm to his head with each dark strand precisely combed into place. He was too tan for Illinois in spring. Hal figured he shelled out hundreds of dollars a year for tanning beds or that fake stuff people spray on their skin to turn it orange.
The other guy was older, up to 15 years, than his partner. He was a black fellow whose stomach ballooned out in front and who went by the name Robinson. He was balding and clearly tired of his job. He sat across from Hal while Mick stood.
“We grilled him for two hours and got nothing useful,” Robinson said while lifting a styrofoam cup of coffee to his lips. Chief was at a luncheon for local officials leaving Hal as the highest-ranking member of the staff for the two FBI guys to pump for information. “Have your or anybody else around here heard him mention this Raheel character? It could be very important.”
“Sorry, guys I really haven’t spent a minute with him since he was transferred in. What’s the big deal about this Raheel guy? Isn’t Abdul the one you want behind bars?”
Mick paced on the other side of the desk.
“Raheel dropped off our radar three days ago,” Mick said with a clear fidget. “We don’t like that. We don’t like that at all.”
Hal leaned back suppressing the small ball of nerves settling in his gut.
“Look, when a guy like this goes under you don’t see him till he’s flying a plane into a building or driving a van full of fertilizer into a daycare center,” Robinson said calmly and coolly. He was much more used to the pressures of the job than the younger Mick.
“Didn’t you say there was a sign of a struggle at his apartment? Maybe someone took him,” Hal walked the line knowing where that lead could end up.
“Unlikely,” Robinson said and drank again. “We think it was staged to throw us off his trail.”
“I’d love to help where I can boys, but I don’t really think anyone here knows anything,” Hal said.
“You’re the ranking detective on staff?” Robinson asked.
“Yeah.”
“Well, why don’t you get to know our boy a little better. See if you can’t get him talking about this Raheel, a little. Maybe we can get a better idea of their connection, maybe get a glimpse of what might be going down.”
Robinson stood up. Hal jumped to his feet, almost in attention.
“I’ll give it a try.”
“You could save a lot of lives,” Mick jumped back into the conversation.
Robinson eyed his partner for a moment before handing Hal a card.
“Just call that number if you find out anything.”
“Alright, then.”
Hal shook Robinson’s hand and then watched them walk away.
“I sure will let you know. I tell you exactly what you want to hear.” Hal whispered slipping the card into the inside pocket of his sport’s jacket.
Disc 2
Track 5
Your Heart is an Empty Room
Death Cab for Cutie
Plans
And start new when your heart is an empty room
Neither of them spoke for several minutes. Hal had brought a folding chair in and set it up outside of Abdul’s cell. Sitting cross-legged on the cold steel, Hal stared between the bars at Abdul, who sat upon his cot. Abdul’s eyes were fixated on Hal. He held a brooding, heavy glare piercing out at everything. It reminded Hal of a pack of starving dogs that the force had found caged out in country a few years back. Their owner had been an elderly man who lived alone in a small shack. When the man died in his bed, no one knew. It was weeks before his body was discovered. His six dogs were frantic when they saw the policemen arrive. If any of the officers had let them out right away, the dogs would have torn every inch of flesh from the man’s body before moving on. That was the same look that Abdul’s eyes carried. He was close to where Hal wanted him, but not quite there yet. Anger blended with reason and calculation is what Hal wanted, not just hot rage.
“How did you say you got that cut on your face,” Abdul finally said.
“Shaving? Why does it matter?”
“It’s looks too deep to be an accidental cut. It has a funny shape to it.” Hal forgot that Abdul had studied medicine in an earlier life. “It’s looks like someone carved it on there. Like it was some sort of mark or reminder or a bad omen.”
“Just a sharp blade and an unsteady hand, I am afraid.”
“Hummph.” Abdul went silent again.
“You know those FBI guys want me to pump you for information on that Raheel guy.”
“They got everything I know. I’ve nothing to hide.”
“Really?”
“I barely know the guy. I’ve spoken with him maybe a half dozen times over the last five years and it’s been a year or so since the last time. He’s just somebody with the same colored skin and same set of beliefs, so we must be best friends, right?”
“Do you think he’s up to something?”
“Possibly. I doubt it.”
“Why?”
“Raheel loves attention. If he were up to something, he’d broadcast it loud enough for everyone to hear. Disappearing would be too hard on him?”
Hal smirked and let the topic drop. While scratching behind his ear, he leaned forward and indicated that Abdul should come closer.
“You know those FBI guys just like to get in the way.”
Abdul crinkled his eyebrows in confusion.
“Aren’t all you guys the same?” Abdul asked. “All you law guys?”
Hal made his face as serious as he could.
“No fucking way, my man. Those FBI guys, they are just tools for the politicians. Every perp they catch, every drug bust, is only done to further some suits career in Washington. They aren’t catching criminals. They are making them. It’s all a show. They aren’t the police force.”
Abdul moved to right in front of the bars of the cell and fell to his knees. It was the posture of a man close to prayer. A Christian man at least, a man like Abdul would be putting his nose to the ground for his praying.
“Have you ever thought about who is really in control of this country?”
“How do you mean?”
“Think about the police force that spans this nation. Thousands of men and women all trained the same and armed. They are on the streets of every village, town, city and metropolis. Every person runs to them for help, for answers, for order.”
“So?”
“So what if we were finally able to give it to them? What if every department in every corner of the map worked together to eliminate the vermin of our society? We’ve already rounded up hundreds of thousands of them and caged them. Those would be easy to destroy. The rest – the dissenters and the troublemakers – well those people could just start disappearing.” Hal said this final sentence with his finger pointed outward.
“Disappearing?”
“Oh, I was just coining a phrase.”
“Your people wouldn’t allow this. Your laws forbid it.”
“We are the law, Abdul. We are the people. In every community, we’re there with family and friends that love us and support us and trust us. If we say this is right, they’ll agree.”
“What of your FBI?”
“We’ll they do pose a problem, but like I said they are nothing more than puppets of the politicians. No politician is going to oppose the police, it would be political suicide.”
“So the police are the one’s to stop?”
Hal grinned.
“You can’t stop it. It’s too late for that. All you can do is fight in every way you can think of?”
“Why are you telling me this?”
Abdul looked confused. Hal shook his head and stood up.
“Haven’t you figured it out yet? Where do you think you’re going to go when we finally let you out of this cage?”
Hal spun and walked away, he thought he could almost hear a hissing sound coming from the man he left back in the cell.
Disc 2
Track 6
Maybe It’s Just Me
Butch Walker
Letters
It’s not a contest of who’ll try harder. Or who’ll cross the finish line.
Hal left work that day early and drove out to this parent’s farm. He stopped at the house and popped the trunk. He pulled out the chest that still caused him some repulsion to touch. That was the human side of him screaming at the grim facts contained inside. He carried it upstairs to the attic back to where it had resided for decades earlier.
After that, he went out to a shed and retrieved a shovel. He walked back behind the barn and found a plot of earth that was obviously freshly covered. He had been careful to find every piece of hair or fragment of bone and threw to the bottom of the cruelly dug grave before refilling it.
He stood at the edge of the muddy turf and faced south and then stepped off a hundred feet. There he sunk the shovel’s head into the field and started to dig. It was cool out creating an odd sensation as his muscles started to burn. He went about four feet deep before widening it out.
He stepped out of the hole and then walked north fifty feet back in the direction of the first grave. There he turned west and walked out another hundred feet and began to dig.
The sun was low in the sky when he finished. He walked up to the barn that inclined up to its big sliding doors. He watched the sun sink on the horizon and noting how the two empty holes seemed to cast a shadow reaching toward the barn.
“They’re hungry to be filled,” Hal whispered. “We’re going to satisfy one of you by morning.”
“Did you hear that!” he screamed. “I’ll take care of one of you by the morning.”
Disc 2
Track 4
Nearly Beloved
The Wallflowers
Rebel, Sweetheart
You play your fiddle, baby, I’ll play dumb
They both wore dark suits and straight, solid-colored ties. Hal thought to be completely cliché the pair of agents should have been wearing oversized sunglasses even when indoors. The taller one, Mick, wore his short hair gelled firm to his head with each dark strand precisely combed into place. He was too tan for Illinois in spring. Hal figured he shelled out hundreds of dollars a year for tanning beds or that fake stuff people spray on their skin to turn it orange.
The other guy was older, up to 15 years, than his partner. He was a black fellow whose stomach ballooned out in front and who went by the name Robinson. He was balding and clearly tired of his job. He sat across from Hal while Mick stood.
“We grilled him for two hours and got nothing useful,” Robinson said while lifting a styrofoam cup of coffee to his lips. Chief was at a luncheon for local officials leaving Hal as the highest-ranking member of the staff for the two FBI guys to pump for information. “Have your or anybody else around here heard him mention this Raheel character? It could be very important.”
“Sorry, guys I really haven’t spent a minute with him since he was transferred in. What’s the big deal about this Raheel guy? Isn’t Abdul the one you want behind bars?”
Mick paced on the other side of the desk.
“Raheel dropped off our radar three days ago,” Mick said with a clear fidget. “We don’t like that. We don’t like that at all.”
Hal leaned back suppressing the small ball of nerves settling in his gut.
“Look, when a guy like this goes under you don’t see him till he’s flying a plane into a building or driving a van full of fertilizer into a daycare center,” Robinson said calmly and coolly. He was much more used to the pressures of the job than the younger Mick.
“Didn’t you say there was a sign of a struggle at his apartment? Maybe someone took him,” Hal walked the line knowing where that lead could end up.
“Unlikely,” Robinson said and drank again. “We think it was staged to throw us off his trail.”
“I’d love to help where I can boys, but I don’t really think anyone here knows anything,” Hal said.
“You’re the ranking detective on staff?” Robinson asked.
“Yeah.”
“Well, why don’t you get to know our boy a little better. See if you can’t get him talking about this Raheel, a little. Maybe we can get a better idea of their connection, maybe get a glimpse of what might be going down.”
Robinson stood up. Hal jumped to his feet, almost in attention.
“I’ll give it a try.”
“You could save a lot of lives,” Mick jumped back into the conversation.
Robinson eyed his partner for a moment before handing Hal a card.
“Just call that number if you find out anything.”
“Alright, then.”
Hal shook Robinson’s hand and then watched them walk away.
“I sure will let you know. I tell you exactly what you want to hear.” Hal whispered slipping the card into the inside pocket of his sport’s jacket.
Disc 2
Track 5
Your Heart is an Empty Room
Death Cab for Cutie
Plans
And start new when your heart is an empty room
Neither of them spoke for several minutes. Hal had brought a folding chair in and set it up outside of Abdul’s cell. Sitting cross-legged on the cold steel, Hal stared between the bars at Abdul, who sat upon his cot. Abdul’s eyes were fixated on Hal. He held a brooding, heavy glare piercing out at everything. It reminded Hal of a pack of starving dogs that the force had found caged out in country a few years back. Their owner had been an elderly man who lived alone in a small shack. When the man died in his bed, no one knew. It was weeks before his body was discovered. His six dogs were frantic when they saw the policemen arrive. If any of the officers had let them out right away, the dogs would have torn every inch of flesh from the man’s body before moving on. That was the same look that Abdul’s eyes carried. He was close to where Hal wanted him, but not quite there yet. Anger blended with reason and calculation is what Hal wanted, not just hot rage.
“How did you say you got that cut on your face,” Abdul finally said.
“Shaving? Why does it matter?”
“It’s looks too deep to be an accidental cut. It has a funny shape to it.” Hal forgot that Abdul had studied medicine in an earlier life. “It’s looks like someone carved it on there. Like it was some sort of mark or reminder or a bad omen.”
“Just a sharp blade and an unsteady hand, I am afraid.”
“Hummph.” Abdul went silent again.
“You know those FBI guys want me to pump you for information on that Raheel guy.”
“They got everything I know. I’ve nothing to hide.”
“Really?”
“I barely know the guy. I’ve spoken with him maybe a half dozen times over the last five years and it’s been a year or so since the last time. He’s just somebody with the same colored skin and same set of beliefs, so we must be best friends, right?”
“Do you think he’s up to something?”
“Possibly. I doubt it.”
“Why?”
“Raheel loves attention. If he were up to something, he’d broadcast it loud enough for everyone to hear. Disappearing would be too hard on him?”
Hal smirked and let the topic drop. While scratching behind his ear, he leaned forward and indicated that Abdul should come closer.
“You know those FBI guys just like to get in the way.”
Abdul crinkled his eyebrows in confusion.
“Aren’t all you guys the same?” Abdul asked. “All you law guys?”
Hal made his face as serious as he could.
“No fucking way, my man. Those FBI guys, they are just tools for the politicians. Every perp they catch, every drug bust, is only done to further some suits career in Washington. They aren’t catching criminals. They are making them. It’s all a show. They aren’t the police force.”
Abdul moved to right in front of the bars of the cell and fell to his knees. It was the posture of a man close to prayer. A Christian man at least, a man like Abdul would be putting his nose to the ground for his praying.
“Have you ever thought about who is really in control of this country?”
“How do you mean?”
“Think about the police force that spans this nation. Thousands of men and women all trained the same and armed. They are on the streets of every village, town, city and metropolis. Every person runs to them for help, for answers, for order.”
“So?”
“So what if we were finally able to give it to them? What if every department in every corner of the map worked together to eliminate the vermin of our society? We’ve already rounded up hundreds of thousands of them and caged them. Those would be easy to destroy. The rest – the dissenters and the troublemakers – well those people could just start disappearing.” Hal said this final sentence with his finger pointed outward.
“Disappearing?”
“Oh, I was just coining a phrase.”
“Your people wouldn’t allow this. Your laws forbid it.”
“We are the law, Abdul. We are the people. In every community, we’re there with family and friends that love us and support us and trust us. If we say this is right, they’ll agree.”
“What of your FBI?”
“We’ll they do pose a problem, but like I said they are nothing more than puppets of the politicians. No politician is going to oppose the police, it would be political suicide.”
“So the police are the one’s to stop?”
Hal grinned.
“You can’t stop it. It’s too late for that. All you can do is fight in every way you can think of?”
“Why are you telling me this?”
Abdul looked confused. Hal shook his head and stood up.
“Haven’t you figured it out yet? Where do you think you’re going to go when we finally let you out of this cage?”
Hal spun and walked away, he thought he could almost hear a hissing sound coming from the man he left back in the cell.
Disc 2
Track 6
Maybe It’s Just Me
Butch Walker
Letters
It’s not a contest of who’ll try harder. Or who’ll cross the finish line.
Hal left work that day early and drove out to this parent’s farm. He stopped at the house and popped the trunk. He pulled out the chest that still caused him some repulsion to touch. That was the human side of him screaming at the grim facts contained inside. He carried it upstairs to the attic back to where it had resided for decades earlier.
After that, he went out to a shed and retrieved a shovel. He walked back behind the barn and found a plot of earth that was obviously freshly covered. He had been careful to find every piece of hair or fragment of bone and threw to the bottom of the cruelly dug grave before refilling it.
He stood at the edge of the muddy turf and faced south and then stepped off a hundred feet. There he sunk the shovel’s head into the field and started to dig. It was cool out creating an odd sensation as his muscles started to burn. He went about four feet deep before widening it out.
He stepped out of the hole and then walked north fifty feet back in the direction of the first grave. There he turned west and walked out another hundred feet and began to dig.
The sun was low in the sky when he finished. He walked up to the barn that inclined up to its big sliding doors. He watched the sun sink on the horizon and noting how the two empty holes seemed to cast a shadow reaching toward the barn.
“They’re hungry to be filled,” Hal whispered. “We’re going to satisfy one of you by morning.”
“Did you hear that!” he screamed. “I’ll take care of one of you by the morning.”
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Snake's Encore: Beach Boys Today - Birth of the Cool
In Snake's Collection:
The Beatles (White Album) - The Beatles:
There was a long time I considered this my favorite Beatle's album. My preferences have changed since then, but I still love listening through this eclectic group of songs. It showcased the band at the height of their distancing from each other. Everyone was kinda doing their own thing and the results are songs that really display their individual personalities. "It should have been the White & Whiter albums" - Ringo Starr
Beggar's Banquet - The Rolling Stones:
This was one of my first purchases along with Sticky Fingers in my quest to have more Stones albums. I wanted to hear those album tracks that are true gems. No Expectations, Dear Doctor & Prodigal Son are the ones on this album. This is the Stones at some of their raunchiest and it is also the last album Brian Jones was fully a part of before his death. So, I guess it is special in that right as well. I love the solo outro on Sympathy for the Devil, best ever!
Birth of the Cool - Miles Davis:
This was the beginning of something very special. Davis started his own jazz movement with this compilation album. One of the first things I had noticed was there are 9 musicians playing together. This was apparently a big change from the smaller groups, usually quintets & quartets, on previous jazz albums. The experimentation was just getting started with this album. His big fusion time periods are usually highlighted by Kind of Blue & Bitches Brew. However, this was definitely the birth of something cool!
Girl Power!
Beauty & The Beat - The Go - Go's:
Not only is this one of the most successful debut albums ever and a cornerstone of the 80's New Wave movement, it was the first time ever that an album reached #1 on the charts that was written and played solely by women. Pretty impressive.
I Don't Get It
Behaviour - The Pet Shop Boys; The Bends - Radiohead; Better Living Through Chemistry - Fatboy Slim
Here is a good example of 3 bands that I tried to figure out what all the fuss is about at some time or another. I like a few Fatboy Slim songs, but most of them seem to be WAY longer than they need to be. So, they usually past the point of annoying. Every time I read the name Pet Shop Boys, it just seems like a bad play on words and somehow a rip off of the Beach Boys. That one is probably just me. I found a couple Radiohead songs I could stand and the cover for The Bends is kinda cool. But seriously folks, I think they have ridden the hype machine. Plus, compared to their other albums, The Bends tanked in the US.
Exploring A New Frontier
Berlin - Lou Reed; Bert Jansch - Bert Jansch; Beautiful Freak - The Eels
Here are three albums that I like what I hear. I definitely need to dedicate some time to expanding my listening to these. I like the term 'Rock Opera' so Berlin is a plus. I doubt Bert Jansch's debut album is as progressive as the Pentangle stuff, but we all need roots. Beautiful Freak just sounds really interesting and several of the songs have been in movies. So, that means there is some good stuff in there.
Load the Gun!
Eno - nuff said!
The Rest of the Story
The Beach Boys Today! - The Beach Boys
This was the first of 3 Beach Boy albums in 1965. They also released 3 albums in 1964. Brian Wilson was feeling too much pressure to keep up the band's success and compete with the Beatles. He actually decided to stop touring with the band before the making of this album. The interesting note that I learned was Glen Campbell (yes, the Rhinestone Cowboy) was his first replacement for touring before settling with a lesser name to play bass. Wilson devoted his time to mixing in studio, writing songs and smoking pot. He started smoking marijuana as stress relief, but became hooked after he noticed the way it changed how he perceived music. So, Brian Wilson's music growth was fueled by pot, stress/nervous breakdown, and a new dedication to the studio.
Overall, a pretty good week even with Eno showing up. A shout out to Billion Dollar Babies since I didn't highlight it anywhere. Lots of classic songs in there including the title track which seems to be passed over alot, but is featured in several live albums and Guitar Hero!
The Beatles (White Album) - The Beatles:
There was a long time I considered this my favorite Beatle's album. My preferences have changed since then, but I still love listening through this eclectic group of songs. It showcased the band at the height of their distancing from each other. Everyone was kinda doing their own thing and the results are songs that really display their individual personalities. "It should have been the White & Whiter albums" - Ringo Starr
Beggar's Banquet - The Rolling Stones:
This was one of my first purchases along with Sticky Fingers in my quest to have more Stones albums. I wanted to hear those album tracks that are true gems. No Expectations, Dear Doctor & Prodigal Son are the ones on this album. This is the Stones at some of their raunchiest and it is also the last album Brian Jones was fully a part of before his death. So, I guess it is special in that right as well. I love the solo outro on Sympathy for the Devil, best ever!
Birth of the Cool - Miles Davis:
This was the beginning of something very special. Davis started his own jazz movement with this compilation album. One of the first things I had noticed was there are 9 musicians playing together. This was apparently a big change from the smaller groups, usually quintets & quartets, on previous jazz albums. The experimentation was just getting started with this album. His big fusion time periods are usually highlighted by Kind of Blue & Bitches Brew. However, this was definitely the birth of something cool!
Girl Power!
Beauty & The Beat - The Go - Go's:
Not only is this one of the most successful debut albums ever and a cornerstone of the 80's New Wave movement, it was the first time ever that an album reached #1 on the charts that was written and played solely by women. Pretty impressive.
I Don't Get It
Behaviour - The Pet Shop Boys; The Bends - Radiohead; Better Living Through Chemistry - Fatboy Slim
Here is a good example of 3 bands that I tried to figure out what all the fuss is about at some time or another. I like a few Fatboy Slim songs, but most of them seem to be WAY longer than they need to be. So, they usually past the point of annoying. Every time I read the name Pet Shop Boys, it just seems like a bad play on words and somehow a rip off of the Beach Boys. That one is probably just me. I found a couple Radiohead songs I could stand and the cover for The Bends is kinda cool. But seriously folks, I think they have ridden the hype machine. Plus, compared to their other albums, The Bends tanked in the US.
Exploring A New Frontier
Berlin - Lou Reed; Bert Jansch - Bert Jansch; Beautiful Freak - The Eels
Here are three albums that I like what I hear. I definitely need to dedicate some time to expanding my listening to these. I like the term 'Rock Opera' so Berlin is a plus. I doubt Bert Jansch's debut album is as progressive as the Pentangle stuff, but we all need roots. Beautiful Freak just sounds really interesting and several of the songs have been in movies. So, that means there is some good stuff in there.
Load the Gun!
Eno - nuff said!
The Rest of the Story
The Beach Boys Today! - The Beach Boys
This was the first of 3 Beach Boy albums in 1965. They also released 3 albums in 1964. Brian Wilson was feeling too much pressure to keep up the band's success and compete with the Beatles. He actually decided to stop touring with the band before the making of this album. The interesting note that I learned was Glen Campbell (yes, the Rhinestone Cowboy) was his first replacement for touring before settling with a lesser name to play bass. Wilson devoted his time to mixing in studio, writing songs and smoking pot. He started smoking marijuana as stress relief, but became hooked after he noticed the way it changed how he perceived music. So, Brian Wilson's music growth was fueled by pot, stress/nervous breakdown, and a new dedication to the studio.
Overall, a pretty good week even with Eno showing up. A shout out to Billion Dollar Babies since I didn't highlight it anywhere. Lots of classic songs in there including the title track which seems to be passed over alot, but is featured in several live albums and Guitar Hero!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
1001 Albums (71-85): The Beach Boys Today! -Birth of the Cool
Note: Well week two of the new format yields a couple different categories and a few less at the top of the list. I think business picks up next week with the No Doubters, I think Snake will like next week a little more. We shall see.
In Red’s Collection
The Beatles (The White Album) (1968) by the Beatles
There may not be another Beatles album where each member’s distinctive talent is so clearly displayed. The album is chalked full of some the best from the three songwriters – John, Paul and George. It’s topics range from nursery rhyme silliness to guns to guitars and everything in between. There is no reason why this shouldn’t be in every music lover’s collection.
Red’s Shameless Plug
Being There (1996) by Wilco
I don’t actually have this album or really know any of the songs on here, but I recently bought the Wilco album “Sky Blue Sky” and very much enjoy it. Unfortunately, I bought it after the CD Project albums were made so none of the tunes appear on there. Wilco has been branded “Alternative Country” but I don’t know what that really means. They may be a little slow for Snake’s tastes, but I’d recommend “Sky Blue Sky” and I have heard that “Yankee Hotel Foxtrot” is also a very good album. Their cover of “California Stars” is also a good one to check out on You Tube sometime.
No Doubt About It
The Beach Boys Today ! (1965) by The Beach Boys
Recorded during Brian Wilson’s gradual breakdown, “Today!” is a precursor to the later acclaimed classic “Pet Sounds.” While the first side hits with traditional Beach Boys' songs like “Do You Wanna Dance?” and an early version of “Help Me, Ronda.” (without the second ‘h’), the second side is chalked full of heart-tugging ballads.
Beggars Banquet (1968) by The Rolling Stones
This was a departure from the psychedelic 60’s and return to the blues and country roots that the Stones were most suited for. “Sympathy for the Devil” kicks off this set and is nothing like anything else done prior to it. Other greats like “Street Fighting Man” and “Factory Girl” kept this album spinning as it battled with the recently released “The White Album” by the Beatles.
Billon Dollar Babies (1973) by Alice Cooper
“No More Mr. Nice Guy” is enough to set this album above a lot of other bands. This is one of the last albums done by the original Alice Cooper Band and it may be their best. They also got help from Marc Bolan, Donovan and Keith Moon on some of the tracks. Cooper embraces his stage persona with songs like “Raped and Freezin’,” “Generation Landslide” and “I Love the Dead.”
Birth of the Cool (1957) by Miles Davis
While I won’t profess to be a Mile Davis expert, Snake and I studied this album in college and there is denying it’s fusion of styles in a time when such experimentation was nonexistent. Besides you have to have big balls and enough to back it up to title your album “Birth of the Cool.”
Remember That Time
Beauty and the Beat (1981) by The Go-Gos
It’s hard not to tap your feet to most Go-Gos songs. It was the early 80s, people were glad to be out of the 70s and the country was starting to enjoy prosperity. Let’s put “We Got the Beat” on and dance a little while.
Follow That
Berlin (1973) by Lou Reed
Reed had to live up to his 1972 masterpiece “Transformer” and this concept album, a departure from his earlier style, left critics and fans shaking their heads. I am a Reed fan, so I’d probably like this album.
GO AWAY !
Before and After Science (1977) by Brian Eno
The review of this starts, “Before and After Science could be Brian Eno’s secret masterpiece…” I say, "Let’s keep that secret."
The Best of the Rest
Bert Jansch (1965) by Bert Jansch
The Snake will love this. Where have we seen this name before? Well, Jansch later formed a group called “The Pentangle.” Much like that, Jansch jams away on an acoustic guitar on this album. It’s a little folk, a little jam, a little progressive. I think the Snake will like a tune named “Angie.”
The Rest
Beautiful Freak (1996) by the Eels
This was a close second for Best of the Rest. Kind of grungy mixed with some early electronic beats.
Behaviour (1990) by Pet Shop Boys
I think we’ve covered these guys already. I didn’t read or hear anything really that different about this album.
The Bends (1995) by Radiohead
Maybe this is a No Doubter, but I don’t really like Radiohead so I am not putting it there.
Better Living Through Chemistry (1996) by Fatboy Slim
Most of Fatboy Slim stuff is catchy, I didn’t recognize these songs and didn’t find them as catchy.
Beyond Skin (1999) by Nitin Sawhney
This sounds like it might be a small step above Brian Eno. Better watch that step or your outta here!
Beyond Skin (1999) by Nitin Sawhney
This sounds like it might be a small step above Brian Eno. Better watch that step or your outta here!
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