Tag: music

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the 31 best of 2008 – 25: Joshua Radin – Simple Times

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Continuing with the acoustic folk-rock, in at number 25 on my countdown this year, is the amazing sophomore disc by Joshua Radin, Simple Times.I first fell in instant love with Joshua after hearing his amazing song Today, from his first album, and I knew that I had to hear more. With this most recent release, Joshua has solidly put himself amongst the artists that I will always follow, and anxiously wait in anticipation for new material from them. This album is a soft, almost whisper-driven folk/pop album, which showcases song after song rooted in the same style as work from other acoustic guitar-picking style artists like Bright Eyes, Nick Drake, and especially Simon and Garfunkel.

The simplicity in each song speaks volumes about his music (perhaps, this is reflective of the album’s title), and I honestly think that it may be the very key to its beauty. I can picture Joshua standing before me with just his guitar in hand, as he sweetly sings each song, and tugs at my heartstrings with each one. I love music like this, because it is the type of music that I really identify with… well, definitely the romantic in me… and it’s how I know that I am a big softy inside.

Joshua’s sophomore album is filled with beautiful love songs, strung together with beautiful harmonies and elegant melodies. The overall theme of the record is upbeat, and loving, and many of the songs would be more than appropriate if played at a wedding; which is just another thing that I love about Joshua’s music and lyrical style. It is romantic, pleasing, peaceful, and it is hard not to smile and feel all warm and fuzzy inside while listening to this record. One of my favorite things that he does, is the way in which he blends his vocals with a soft and beautiful female vocal; making for a beautiful harmony, as well as the imagery of two people singing longing to one another.

If any of what I have said could be considered a bad thing (I’m looking at you, Stu), well, then I don’t want to be good, because everything about this album is wonderfully uplifting, romantic, and lovely. If that isn’t your thing, then I can’t help but wonder where your romantic side is, because this album definitely SHOUTS (well, if you can count a whisper as a shout) at mine. I would be more than honored to have Joshua play at our wedding… that is, if we could afford it…

Sparkle Factor:
Stand Outs: One Of Those Days, They Bring Me To You (this one is the one that could be played at my wedding, and I would be totally teary eyed — this song could totally be used as vows!), Free Of Me, You Got Growing Up To Do.

music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2008 – 26: Bebo Norman – Bebo Norman

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As a fan of Bebo’s for nearly a decade now, I was more than excited to discover that his new self-titled release, Bebo Norman, is as good as it is. Initially, it was his tribute to Britney Spears, in the song aptly called Britney, that made me sit up and pay attention to this album.

While Bebo’s music has always been something that I have loved, his last (non-greatest hit or non-Christmas) record was kind of a disappointment for me, and certainly the one I liked least in his catalog. When I saw that he had released a new record this year, I was apprehensive (after the last album), because I thought that perhaps he had done all that he could have done with his previous efforts (which was echoed by a greatest hits and a Christmas release). However, I happy to quickly discover how instantly, and pleasantly surprised I was by this album. Bebo is one of those singers that has a beautifully soft and smoky voice, who weaves folk-rock melodies to make beautiful music; all within the context of a positive message.

Bebo Norman is one the few Christian artists that have kept up with since my days when I was only into Christian music, but mostly because for me, he transcends just the Christian market; even though it is Bebo’s style of music really represents why I was so drawn to Christian music in the first place. His music isn’t completely overtly “LOVE JESUS!111!!!!”, but it is definitely rooted in believing in God, and living a good life by example; which I have always found comforting, in that it seems to come across as lacking judgment and being rooted solely in compassion. Mostly, while his music is purely rooted in the inspirational, and it’s something that I know I could all use every now and then, it serves as a positive reminder of when I was much more heavily religious, and all of the great experiences that were a part of that time in my life. Regardless of the “message” in his lyrics (and don’t be fooled, the message IS there), Bebo is an exceptional acoustic-rock musician, and he completely delivers on this self titled album.

It has all of his trademark beautiful arrangements, and manages to churn out an overall entertaining listening experience; many of these songs are completely commercially viable, and are ready for radio (lyrics notwithstanding). Bebo is one of those artists, that if he weren’t strictly labeled as a Christian artist (not that there’s anything wrong with that… we all need a niche!), there would be nothing stopping him from being amongst his acoustic rock peers like Joshua Radin, Edwin McCain, Matt Wertz, Damien Rice, or even Ray LaMontagne (although he is more commercial than either Rice or LaMontagne). Overall, if you are a fan of genuinely good folk rock, then you will probably enjoy Bebo Norman’s newest release, which incorporates more arrangements, and polished, multi-layered tracks that some of his previous softer work, and which adds to an already lovable catalog of acoustic, folk-rock music. I’m glad that this album ended up being better than his last release, and managed to get me re-interested in someone I would definitely consider amongst my favorite artists, and solidified his position as such at the same time.

Sparkle Factor:
Stand Outs: Britney, Pull Me Out, Can’t Live Without You, One Bright Hour.

music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2008 – 27: Jennifer Hudson – Jennifer Hudson

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I will openly admit that I have been a HUGE fan of Jennifer’s from the moment I saw her on American Idol, and that definitely has had an impact on my love for this record. I have heard a lot of criticism about the record from others, but for me, there is something about her voice that truly impresses me, and it is showcased beautifully on this album. She is a diva in every sense of the word, and I am more than pleased with her debut album.

Well, a little movie called Dreamgirls, and an Oscar and Golden Globe later, Ms. Hudson showed the world that she is not only a talented singer, but she is also a mighty fine actor. I think that there is one line from Dreamgirls that completely sums up how I feel about Jennifer’s singing: It’s when they are backstage at the talent competition, mulling over why they lost, and Hudson’s character Effie White asks Deena (Beyonce), “Deena, have you ever met anybody that sings as crazy as I do?”, to which she replies simply, “no”. And there’s a reason, there aren’t many people that can sing as “crazy” as she does; her voice is out of this world amazing.

I knew that with the success of Dreamgirls, Jennifer’s star was ready to get it’s full shine. She released her self titled album, Jennifer Hudson, this fall, and I have to say, that I was really, really impressed. One of the problems with people that can sing like her, is having the songs to showcase her massive voice and the talent that is in it. Sometimes, stars get those songs, and I think on this album, Jennifer has turned out a fair share of amazing performances by being given solid songs to sing; so much so, that it strongly overshadows the weaker points of the album (goddammit, I wish T-Pain would choke to death on the fucking vocoder and do this world a favor). The inclusion of the show stopper, And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going from Dreamgirls was sheer genius. It is one of the most massive songs out there, and she nailed it in Dreamgirls; so putting it on her debut just makes sense.

I love the range in which she highlights her voice as well; on this album she ranges from pop to R&B, and from hip hop all of the way to the church. I am not traditionally a fan of true R&B, so the variety on this album is refreshing. There’s something to be said about “taking someone to church”, a saying that I have heard used when someone really “sangs” the shit out of something, and Jennifer, honey, you can take me to church any time. I am telling you, she definitely takes you there with this record.

This is a pretty impressive debut for a very, very talented diva on the rise. Thankfully, it is being recognized; just yesterday, she was nominated for 4 Grammy awards. Jennifer Hudson has worked her way into the spotlight, she has told us that she’s not going, and she is shining; and her star is truly a beautiful sight (er, sound) to behold.

Sparkle Factor:
Standouts: Spotlight, We Gon’ Fight, I’m His Only Woman, You Pulled Me Through, And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going.

music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2008 – 28: Portishead – Third

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Ten years.

Ten years is how long it was since a Portishead album was released. There has been much talk, and even more speculation about another album, but nothing ever came. So, when the news that Thirdwas going to FINALLY be released this year, this fanboy was elated. See, Portishead is one of my favorite groups; some of the songs that they have are so powerful and filled with emotion that they draw me in like almost no one else can. Beth Gibbon’s haunting voice is like no other, and she wields it like a drug to which I am hopelessly and utterly addicted to. Only having three albums (really only two, since one is just a live album), I was salivating for more Portishead, because they are one of those groups that there really isn’t anyone else out there like them; which is amazing, but saddening when they go on ten year hiatuses.

When I finally got my hands on Third earlier this year, I almost bet myself that it would be instant love. However, what happened was not what I was expecting, and here’s why… I think that when you have a 10 year span to build up until your next release, no matter what you do, it will never be everything that you (or your fans) want it to be. This doesn’t mean that it isn’t brilliant, but it does mean that it may not have the chance to surpass the brilliance displayed a decade ago… perhaps it is only meant to add to that brilliance; which it does. Such is the case with Third, it does not surpass its predecessors, but it comes close to meeting them and adds something amazing to their already impressive catalog.

This record is a cohesive piece of music; each song almost sounds out of place if listened to alone. There aren’t many stand out tracks with the aching moan of Sour Times (for which, I am sure, they are best known for), but overall, this album is truly a work of art. They managed to take their sound and age it almost perfectly for the time that had passed. It is important to remember that they were instrumental in creating the movement of trip hop, and with this album, they have shown that they are still serious contributors to, and shapers of, their ever growing, and ever changing genre. Third is massive, it is epic, it is overwhelming at moments, but it is digestible and enjoyable throughout.

Any true Portishead would love this record, it has everything: the haunting vocals, the tribal banging beats, the warbled guitars, the distorted rhythmic tremblings; they are all there. However, this time around, they have gone darker, deeper, and the result is something aching, and beautiful. For me, as I mentioned, no matter what they did, it could not soar higher than their second, self titled album (which is an all time top 5 album for me), but this album comes damn close; and considering the ten year gap, that ain’t half bad. I just hope that I don’t have to wait ten more years for more great music from this amazing band.

Sparkle Factor:
Stand Outs: We Carry On, Machine Gun, Nylon Smile, Threads.

music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2008 – 29: Goldfrapp – Seveth Tree

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Ethereal, floaty, soft, meek, delicate, airy, and mesmerizing; none of these are words I would use to describe the former electroclash sound of Goldfrapp. However, with their recent release, Seventh Tree, they reinvented themselves once again, and in doing so, made one of the most understated, beautiful albums of the year. The marrying of Allison Goldfrapp’s angelic, whisper-driven voice with the subtle beats and mellow guitar plucking and synthesizer of Will Gregory is quite amazing.

I definitely see Goldfrapp as pioneering in many aspects; after the success of their single Oh La La, it seems that everyone has jumped on that bandwagon, and has tried to copy their sound (most recently, I’m looking at you Xtina). Perhaps that this is why they chose to revert to their more ethereal roots, and delve into a softer side of their music? Who knows the motivation, but one thing is certain, the result is an album that is filled to the brim with creativity, synth-driven subtlety, and something that is sure to please the music lover in anyone; that is, anyone that loves great music. For me, the record has this olden quality, that sounds as if it is being played back on an old timey phonograph; all it’s missing is the crackles and pops of the needle as it circles around the record. Likewise, it is one of those albums that contains song after song that sound as if they would be right at home being played during different pivotal moments during a film.

As I said, softness wasn’t something I would have considered with regards to Goldfrapp, because I unfamiliar with their earlier work, and I had only heard their more dance-themed electroclash sound (which, I will be honest, I wasn’t too much of a fan of). That being said, after hearing the amazing lead off single, A & E, from this album, I saw something that I hadn’t seen in them before, and instantly wanted more. The rest of the album pleased me more than I was expecting, and is filled with track after track of well crafted, beautiful anthems. I for one am glad that they have gotten in touch with this softer side, because the resulting record is amazing, and is definitely something that people will be trying to reproduce. I guess being a pioneer of sorts makes for several copycats down the line, but they say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery; and by now, Goldfrapp should be more than flattered. Judging by the quality of this record, I will predict that they have much more flattery to look forward to on the horizon.

Unrelated to the sound of the record, I do have to say that it is uncanny how much Allison Goldfrapp looks like Mary Kate/Ashley Olsen on the cover, no?

Sparkle Factor:
Stand Outs: A & E, Monster Love, Caravan Girl, Eat Yourself.

music musings, music suggestion, show the love

the 31 best of 2008 – 30: Wild Sweet Orange – We Have Cause To Be Uneasy

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In at number 30 is a band that hails from nearby Birmingham, Alabama. This indie-rock set first caught my attention with their song Either/Or, mostly because of the unexpectedly different melody and timing they used in the song; the stop and start of the beat and the buzzing guitars is really something quite amazing. It was something that I couldn’t ignore, and I ended up falling head over heels in love with that song, so I naturally had to check out the rest of the album; and I am very glad that I did. Not only do I love their name (it has Orange in the title!), but I have really come to love their sound and this record.

We Have Cause to Be Uneasy is full of a wide variety of mid tempo rock tracks, as well as a fair share of down tempo, soul searching confessions. They also sneak a little of their local roots in with a banjo and some country flair near the middle of the album. The eloquence with which the imagery in each song comes across makes for a great story, and coupled with the melody and music, makes for some great music as well; all intimate, and sometimes tragic (such as the track Sour Milk, which is the heartbreaking tale about a deadbeat father, and the disappointment in parents when they don’t live up to perceptions of what parents “should be” — damn I can relate to that). I really have to give another nod to the masterful use of imagery in their song writing, because there are many times that you can’t escape the moment that they are trying to catch you in; which for a musical act, is a huge success, as far as I’m concerned.

The vocalist reminds me a bit of what Connor Oberst might sound like if he shouted every once and a while, and got himself in to such a flow of raw emotion, that he had to just let it all loose on the record (which is NOT a condescension to Connor, I love that guy just like he is). This explosion of emotion happens many times on the record, and really expresses the real feeling that went into some of these songs; again, making for some fantastic music.

Overall, this is a great indie-rock album that has some really raw, emotional, and fantastically crafted songs on it. I am so incredibly excited that I found out about these guys, because they are really doing something slightly different, and they are doing it really, really well. Fans of bands like Death Cab For Cutie, as well as Bright Eyes (aka Connor Oberst), should definitely get this album now; these guys have made a great album, and a fantastic contribution to their music genre, and it definitely deserves its place amongst my favorite records of the year.

Sparkle Factor:
Standouts: Either/Or, Ten Dead Dogs, Sour Milk, Night Terrors, Land Of No Return.

music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2008 – 31: The Ting Tings – We Started Nothing

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Let’s get this party started right, shall we? First up on my year end list of the best 31 albums of 2008 is a record that should really get under your skin and drive you crazy, but doesn’t. First of all, you have Katie White’s shrill-like vocal styling; that you will either LOVE, or seriously hate. For me… it’s serious love. Also, I have this thing when I hear a song, and they repeat the same thing (be it a repetitive rhythm, or vocal) over, and over, and over, and over… I freak out. I hate it. However, The Tings Tings
have done something that rarely happens; they have done that very thing… over, and over, and over, and instead of hating it… I LOVE IT. The first time I heard Great DJ, there was something catchy, intense, and so simple that it had to work; and it really pulled me in. After I listened to this album, I realized that this record is one of those perfect albums for dancing your butt off in your room, hoping that your mom won’t walk in on you looking like a fool to; but even if she did, she would probably think you were pretty cool because of who you were listening to. This is one of those bands that make indie-dance pop so sexy and cool, that I bet even your mom would take notice.

The formula for each song is simple, but the beats are heavy and infectious. There is something oh-so-indie about this album, but at the same time, so commercial at the same time; after all, Apple snagged these guys and propelled them into the limelight (at least in the UK if you are counting limelight by chart standards) by selecting perhaps the best song on the record, Shut Up and Let Me Go, for one of their coveted ipod commercials earlier this year. The energy and the passion in each track is something that keeps you moving, and wanting more; and the simplicity and silliness in some of the lyrics (how do you play someone like a Fruit Machine, exactly?!?!) reminds me of other guilty pleasure groups like Cibo Matto that are practically impossible to listen to without a smile on your face; and with The Ting Tings, it will be a smile on your lips, and a tapping toe to go with it.

Several songs on the record were released as singles, notably Great DJ, Shut Up and Let Me Go, and That’s Not My Name, and I know that many more can still come from this record. It’s an album chock full of radio ready dance indie-pop hits that beg to be played, and danced to. The Ting Tings have banged their way into my heart with their infectious beats and catchy rhythms, and if you listen to this record, I bet that you will be pulled in as well. Make sure to do yourself a favor and check out their videos too… they are fun and interesting.

Sparkle Factor:
Standouts: Shut Up and Let Me Go, Traffic Light, That’s Not My Name, Great DJ.

listen up!, music musings, music suggestion

before the best… there’s the rest

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There were some massive albums this year. There were some massive singles as well. Unfortunately, not every album was as massive as a particular song might have been, and as such, it fell off of my list; but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t deserve recognition for being great. Also, there were some fantastic albums that were released this year that didn’t meet the criteria for my year end list (EP, re-release, live album, best of collection), so, instead of just ignoring them, I thought I would compile a little “best of the rest list” before getting into the meat of my favorite 31 records of 2008. How does that sound?

Alright, here we go:
The Cardigans – Best Of: As much as I love the Cardigans (they are definitely amongst my favorite groups of all time), putting a Best Of collection amongst the other contenders kind of isn’t fair for the rest of the studio albums on the top 31 list; even if the record (a double record in this case) is amazing. That being said, it’s a great collection with a ton of songs that I hadn’t heard before, mostly because they were B sides or on soundtracks. If you love the Cardigans, it is a MUST have. It is a solid five star album.

Sara Bareilles – Between the Lines: Live at the Fillmore: What should I say that hasn’t been said before? Sara Bareilles is one of the most talented musicians out there right now, and she kills it on this live album. If you have seen her live, you know what I am talking about, and should already own this… if you haven’t seen her, get this, because the audio is amazing.

Robyn – Robyn: If this album would have been released this year, for the first time, it would have probably been number one (if not amongst the top spots) on this list. However, this CD was originally released in 2005, and there isn’t enough new here to make it a contender. That being said, IF this album had of been released this year, it would have fit perfectly; which is a testament as to how forward and amazing this record is… it can stand the test of 3 years, and do so effortlessly. I can’t wait for the next record from Robyn.

Antony and the Johnsons – Another World EP: I love Antony and the Johnsons, and if this EP is any indication as to what we have in store from his next full length release in January, well, you will see this name again next year around this time. The first song on this EP is breathtakingly amazing.

Kaiser Chiefs – Off With Their Heads: Here’s a great record that didn’t connect with me as much as their previous release, but it’s definitely a good record, and I am glad that it’s in my collection.

She & Him – Volume One: It was Paste Magazine’s number one, and while I do really love this record, it didn’t resonate with me on that level. Zooey Deschanel’s voice is amazing; I can’t wait for volume two.

M83 – Saturdays=Youth: And here’s our first casualty ladies and gents… if there were 32 spots, it would be on the list. Fantastic record throughout, it just waivers at the end with the ultra long track, and that is really all that hurts it.

Dave Barnes – Me + You + The World: Here’s another album that should have made the list, but didn’t because there are only so many days in December. It’s a great record in the same vein as Jason Mraz with a little bit more Marc Broussard. There are some eloquent and beautiful songs on this album that captivate me every time I hear them.

Jesse McCartney – Departure: A solid pop album, with some definite movers and dance floor shakers on there. There are a ton of singles on this record, so I don’t know why he has only released two. Either way, he’s maturing nicely.

Ben Folds – Way to Normal: Another solid, and hilarious, album from the great Ben Folds. Just missed the cut, seriously.

Matt Alber – Hide Nothing:This one is kind of a conflict for me, because there are some AMAZING songs on it, but there are more than a couple filler tracks that really drug it down. I am definitely happy to have this in my music collection though, because when Matt’s good, he’s GREAT, seriously, seriously GREAT.

My Favorite Highway – How To Call A Bluff: There are some stunning songs on this album, and they remind me a lot of last year’s top ten group Melee, but they just missed the mark for this year’s list. Note that you cannot by the physical CD on amazon, so the link is for the MP3 CD. If you must only get one song, you have to get Bigger Than Love. That song is amazing.

Aqualung – Words & Music: Lastly, I HAVE to mention Aqualung, not only because he made my top ten last year, but because he released possibly one of the most amazingly beautiful songs on this record, called Arrivals. It is the last track of a record that feels sort of hurried, but there is nothing about this song that isn’t beautiful, sweet, and oh-so elegantly constructed. This is a MUST have just because of that one song, I tell you; I only wish the rest of the album would have been as amazing.

Alright, I PROMISE that the next blog post will be your number 31 CD… stay tuned… it’s coming soon!

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they’re coming… I promise!

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I am sure that at least one person out there in cyberland came to this very site yesterday in order to partake in the first of the massive year end countdown of my top 31 CDs of 2008, only to find nothing posted regarding the first disc. My apologies, as I had a TON of work to wrap up for my Microbiology lab (IT’S OVER!!!!), and rest assured that I will be getting right on top of the list as soon as possible; so check back. As for the list, I am excited and a bit overwhelmed at the same time, because there are some hard choices to be made as far as rank and order go, so things should be nothing less than interesting. See you soon!

Also, a huge happy birthday to the fabulous Ms. Britney Spears, who’s SIXTH album hits stores today. It’s definitely massive record for her, and will find its place amongst the forthcoming best of ’08 list!

five song friday, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion, tragic, wtf?!

5SF: november 28

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I hope that everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving; I ended up being stranded in bed with my unpredictable back. All is well though, because I got some well needed rest, and was able to play lots of video games (which was fun). I appreciate all of the well wishes from everyone, and return them right back!! Also, I hope that everyone is okay today, and safe and sound; especially with nonsense like this going on out there. People. Calm down. There is no need to trample someone to get a deal on anything; nothing is worth that much. It really makes me sad for that person’s family, and my heart goes out to them.

Well, not to get everyone in a downer, but I just felt compelled to say something about that horrible incident. No amount of savings is worth that, I really can’t believe people are that desperate. Alright, enough about that… here’s this week’s five fabulous songs for you; and note that this is the LAST Friday five that will take place before the MASSIVE year end best of 2008 CD countdown, which starts on December 1!

Okkervil River – Lost Coastlines
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1128_okkervilriver-lostcoastlines.mp3]
I have been sitting on this song for a few weeks now, but I have been enjoying it more and more with each listen. It starts off simple, and the builds to an all out head bopping dance rock-pop number that I swear sounds like The Cure, Morrissey, and The Shins are all collaborating on one track. The result is something so inherently 80’s alternative, yet still current enough to really make you want to pick up the record for future listens. The song would fit in either decade, but it’s definitely interesting to hear the 80’s sound of such great bands like The Cure being updated slightly for the here and now.

Matt Alber – End of The World
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1128_mattalber-endoftheworld.mp3]
I almost didn’t pick this one for this week because I picked a Matt Alber track last week, and I don’t want to delve into the realm of overkill. BUT… I saw the accompanying video for this song last night, and I shit you not, there were fucking tears streaming down my face by the end. It is an insanely beautiful song, and the video is so completely sweet, honest, and believable, that it really reminded me of the amazing scene between Jack and Jack on Torchwood (if you don’t know what I am talking about, check this out. Wow, right?!); too bad I can’t link to the video so you can see it as well. Hmpf! I am sure that it will find its way onto youtube soon enough, so do yourself a favor and remember to look it up when it does; it is exquisite, and only strengthens my already huge crush on Matt Alber.

Passion Pit – Sleepyhead
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1128_passionpit-sleepyhead.mp3]
This song is weird… and that is why I LOVE IT. The beat, the clapping, the weird background vocals, the tribal sounds… all of it is AMAZING. This is one of those songs that you hear it, and wonder what the fuck you are listening to, and you want to know because it is so fucking amazing that you have to have it and play it on repeat. These guys are being compared to fellow electro rock groups like MGMT, and I definitely see the resemblance, but there is something in this song that makes me love it so much more than anything I have heard from the others so far. Also, be sure to check out the trippy, and amazing video for this song, because it is equally amazing, and really compliments the video in a way that isn’t fully describable; the video is definitely a work of art on it’s own. I seriously cannot get enough of this song, so beware, it is a MAJOR earworm.

Freezepop – Frontload (Designer Drugs Remix)
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1128_freezepop-frontload.mp3]
I have been a fan of Freezepop ever since I heard the AMAZING track they did for the Guitar Hero series called Less Talk More Rokk. Well, I noticed on iTunes that they released an EP recently, I was really impressed by this track. This particular remix is incredibly hot, and is so synthed out that it is just insane. I want to put on my dancing shoes and fucking gyrate all night long to this track. It is actually hard to sit still and type as I listen to it. I am really glad to have been exposed to Freezepop from Guitar Hero, and I have enjoyed pretty much everything I have heard from them.

Len – Steal My Sunshine
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1128_len-stealmysunshine.mp3]
Poor Len… such an amazing song, and that was about it. Well, lucky for them, this amazing track was recently featured in Zack and Miri Make a Porno, which instantly made me put it back into rotation; and I’m sure, made them a small chunk of change at the same time. This is one of those songs that are perfect to drive around to, or to enjoy a great time with friends. This song made a splash back in 1999, and was even featured in the movie Go (which had a pretty amazing soundtrack). Even though it was there one hit wonder, Len sure sold a lot of albums based on this little ditty; I remember for a while, you couldn’t go to a used CD store and see any less than 10 Len albums in the used bin. I guess people got tired of the song, but not me… I’m glad to bring it back!

So there you have it, five new songs for your listening pleasure. I hope you enjoyed them, and as always tell me what you are listening to as well! Let’s share people!