Tag: music

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the 31 best of 2007 – 4: The Pipettes – We Are The Pipettes!

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Despite criticism for choosing some albums that were “officially” released in 2006, yet did not actually see official US releases until 2007, I am going to risk further criticism and bring you another amazing CD that was released recently (finally) here in the states; The Pipettes’ debut album, We Are the Pipettes.With the American release of their record back in October, they reworked several of the songs, making them even more crisp than they were previously (if that is really possible), updated the cover art, and even added a couple of extra tracks; one of which quickly became one of my favorite songs from the Pipettes. This album is definitely one of the best records released in either 2006 or 2007; and since it debuted stateside this year, here she is, near the top of my list.

There really aren’t any negative comments I have about this CD; it truly is a flawless pop record. When I listen to this album, I totally feel like I have been transported back in time, back to the 50s or 60s; to a basement all night sleep over/sock hop/party. The three ladies that make up the Pipettes have sweet harmonies, slick vocals, and self assurance to boot. Another thing that I completely LOVE about them, is that they don’t mask their British accents; this really brings a feeling of British “invasion” to this early throw-back pop-rock style that they so masterfully produce on this record.

While the songs may be simple, and sometimes silly, they are definitely catchy, and will have you bopping your head and tapping your toes. If I were going to have a themed party, one of polka dots, fancy cocktails, and retro glasses, and one where I wanted to get the party hopping with dances like the Chubby Checker and the Twist, I would pull out the Pipettes CD and start the fun. I seriously don’t think that there is much more fun you can have listening to a disc than this one; it is catchy, poppy, deliciously infectious, and will leave you wanting more. They are the Pipettes, and they are here to move you (as well as to get into your brain with their infectious pop numbers!)!

Well, I can tell you this; I have been moving for a while now to the Pipettes, and I have been loving them more and more with each listen. I saw them in concert not to long ago, and they completely delivered at the show. I left that concert as more of a fan, if that was even possible, because I truly love this group thoroughly. If you get the chance to see them in concert, I HIGHLY recommend you go; they have the total package (choreography, costumes, they have it all!). I think that they are fresh, exciting, and a welcome retro-pop reminder of how fun music can be. The Pipettes are amazing, and have made one of my favorite records of this year with We Are The Pipettes. If you don’t get this record now, you are REALLY missing out. Each and every song on this record is fantastic; trust me, the Pipettes are where it is at!

Favorite tracks from We Are the Pipettes:
Pull Shapes
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/pipettes-pullshapes.mp3]
Dance and Boogie
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/pipettes-danceandboogie.mp3]
Your Kisses are Wasted on Me
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/pipettes-yourkissesarewastedonme.mp3]
Why Did You Stay, It Hurts to See You Dance So Well, and Dirty Mind.

Rating:

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the 31 best of 2007 – 5: Rilo Kiley – Under The Blacklight

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It’s the final five, y’all!! Coming in at number 5, is the current album by Rilo Kiley, titled, Under the Blacklight.First, let me start by saying that I honestly didn’t care very much for this album the first time that I heard it. I ended up getting it, because of my deep love for the opening song, Silver Lining, but something made me give the album more than a few spins. After each spin, I found something more that I liked, and after a while, I really realized how great this record is. I love it when something comes across as odd or off putting in the beginning, only to grow on you, and become a favorite; those are sometimes the best albums in your collection.

Rilo Kiley are one of those bands that I have had recommended to me time and time again, and for whatever reason, I always ignored those suggestions. However, that’s the way I am sometimes; sometimes, I need to just discover something for myself, which is what happened with Rilo Kiley and this amazing album. I heard Silver Lining, and loved it so much, that I wanted to hear more. What I got, was a well crafted album, filled with great rock songs; all of which have their own feel and flavor.

I have to say, that one of my favorite things about this record, is the lead singer, Jenny Lewis’ vocal style. Her voice is sweet, but with an almost rough edge to it, which really goes nicely with the heartfelt songs she sings on the record. It also makes for the perfect companion on upbeat songs, that aren’t meant to be as serious. All in all, what you have is one of the best female vocals in my record collection, and a great pop-rock band backing her up. This record is raw, gritty, and well produced and polished at the same time; it’s just damn good!

If you have heard this album, and only liked it a little, I highly recommend you spend some time with it; you haven’t let it reach the true potential that it exhibits. Let it marinate; you will discover the intricacies that make it so fantastic. No one was more surprised than I was, when I realized how great this record was, and it solidified itself near the top of my list; seriously, my initial snap judgment couldn’t have been more wrong. This is definitely a great record, indeed; one that is filled with songs that really stay with you… in a good way.

Favorites from Under the Blacklight:
Silver Lining (one of my favorite songs this year)
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/rilokiley-silverlining.mp3]
Smoke Detector
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1116_smkdetector.mp3]
Breakin’ Up
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/rilokiley-breakinup.mp3]
Under the Blacklight, Angels Hung Around, and 15.

Rating:

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the 31 best of 2007 – 6: Delta Goodrem – Delta

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As the list gets closer and closer to number one, it gets harder and harder not to just foam at the mouth, and gush incessantly about how great these CDs are; but for the most part, just understand that I am trying. Up today, at number 6, is the fabulous third album by Aussie bombshell, Delta Goodrem, titled simply, Delta.Having been a fan of Delta’s for some time now, I was eager to hear her new album when read that it would be coming out late this year. What I didn’t expect, was that it would be so amazingly good. While I have liked her records in the past, they have lacked an overall consistency that Delta totally delivers this time around. She molds a pristine pop record, and gives herself completely in each track.

The likeness in voice to Celine Dion may be apparent, but Delta definitely has something Celine is majorly lacking; the talent behind the voice. Delta writes her songs and plays piano beautifully, and doesn’t come across as egotistical or shallow with her powerhouse vocals; in fact, she has a sincerity to her that Celine could learn from. With this album, Delta has clearly taken her music to a new level, and made a greatly crafted, and well produced pop record.

While many of the songs are upbeat, and have sunny disposition, it is clear that she has been through, and continues to struggle with, many different issues in her life. The girl beat cancer on her last album, and on this one, she talks about her struggles with relationships, and the divorce of her parents. Regardless of the topic in these songs, there is no denying that Delta has been able to tap into the best that she has to offer, and for this album, has trimmed away the fat (albeit, it was only a little bit of fat; the other records are quite good) that slow down her previous two efforts. It is still a surprise to me that such a talented artist is practically unheard of here in America; but at least I can say that I am one American that has got my ears pointed towards the land down under. Delta is definitely a treat, and the entire album is a great listen. You will find yourself listening to it over and over again; which is exactly why it made it this high up on my list… I can’t get enough of Delta!

Favorites from Delta:
Woman
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1026_woman.mp3]
Brave Face
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1102_braveface.mp3]
The Guardian
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/delta-theguardian.mp3]
In This Life, I Can’t Break It To My Heart, and One Day (link for youtube video, as always).

Rating:

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the 31 best of 2007 – 7: Melee – Devils and Angels

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In at number seven, is the amazing sophomore album Devils & Angelsby the Orange county pop-rock quartet Melee. Melee is more than just another one of those emo-punk-pop groups from California; these kids have some amazing talent, and it shows on each one of the songs on this great record. With perfectly polished rhythm, great song writing ability, and production value through the roof, you are really in for a treat when you pop this album into your player. The singing on this record is also a major treat, with all of their beautiful voices melding together in perfect harmony. This is something that puts them amongst my favorite singers in my vast music collection.

Melee are one of those bands that I discovered by accident, and I was instantly blown away by how much I thoroughly enjoyed their music from beginning to end. Seriously, this record sounds like it should be more of a greatest hits record than a sophomore effort; each of the songs are radio-worthy, and quite frankly, could stand out as chart topping singles and bona fide hits. Blending that piano-rock sound that I love so much with the alternative guitar driven pop-rock sound that I also crave, Melee totally delivers the goods on this record; there is not a bad song in the bunch. In fact, it is really hard to pick favorites, because of how good each song really is.

I read somewhere that there was a bidding war between record labels to snag these guys, and that doesn’t surprise me at all; the talent is sky high with this lot. They are the perfect pop-rock group, and make it seem like crafting great music is easy. This is one of those CDs that you can play, and thoroughly enjoy the entire experience. I really can’t say enough great things about Melee, and I am beginning to feel a little like I am a gushing soccer mom at this point. These guys remind me of little bits of some of my favorite artists, like Ben Folds and Weezer; but they have their own polished sound going, and it is great.

I am glad that I randomly discovered this CD, because after one listen, I was truly impressed. I knew that it would make my list instantly, because it is damn good; and it is one of those albums that you can listen to over and over again, with it getting better each time. Again, it sounds more like a greatest hits record that a band would make after years of recording albums, because each and every song sounds like a single. That says a lot about this group, because if their first big label go is this good, I would bet that they have a long career in front of them; and I am certainly looking forward to it myself.

Favorite songs from Devils & Angels:
Can’t Hold On
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/melee-cantholdon.mp3]
She’s Gonna Find Me Here
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/melee-shesgonnafindmehere.mp3]
For A Lifetime
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/melee-foralifetime.mp3]
Built To Last, Love Carries On, and Stand Up.

Rating:

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the 31 best of 2007 – 8: Mika – Life in Cartoon Motion

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Perhaps one of the catchiest records I have heard in many, many years, Mika’s debut album, Life in Cartoon Motionsolidified itself a spot on my top list right after my first listen. Mika is one of those artists that you listen to, and instantly recognize not only a great deal of talent, but you genuinely believe that he makes music because he loves to do it. Interestingly enough, I pegged this as one of the best albums of 2007 back in February, and here it is near the top of my list, well, because I was right.

Channeling a little bit of Freddy Mercury, and banging his heart out on the piano, Mika truly performs the shit out of some amazing songs on his debut. Not only that, he portrays this passion that is so refreshing to hear from someone so “new” to the scene, as well as from someone so young. Given his pop-electro sound, and his flamboyant style, it is no wonder that Mika was so popular with the gays this year, regardless of his own sexuality (which he has yet to state as one thing or another).

I was lucky enough to see Mika live this year, and I have to say, that if I had ANY doubt about his talent, and his ability as a musician before that show, it was solidly blown away by the time the curtain came down. Mika is one of those amazingly strong performers that really can stand out as a strong and charismatic solo singer. Couple that with the powerful voice, and those catchy as hell pop songs, and you have yourself a record chock full of fun, over the top pop hits. Life in Cartoon Motionis just a feel good record, and each of the songs are so radio worthy, that it wouldn’t surprise me if you saw single after single coming off of this record for a long time to come.

I am glad that was exposed to the amazingness that is Mika early on (even before his record dropped in the US!), and I have have been a huge fan ever since. This is one of those records that you can just pop in the CD player, and have a damn good time listening to. It is a feel good, amazingly produced pop record, and it definitely deserves a spot near the top of my list; and so here it is! It really gets me anxious to think, that if Mika can deliver a debut record as amazing as this one is, what he is capable of in the future. I can definitely say, that he has got my full, and undivided attention.

Favorites from Life in Cartoon Motion:
My Interpretation
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/mika-myinterpretation.mp3]
Any Other World
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/mika-anyotherworld.mp3]
Grace Kelly
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/mika-gracekelly.mp3]
Happy Ending, Love Today, and Big Girls (You Are Beautiful). (click the links for youtube videos!)

Rating:

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the 31 best of 2007 – 9: Aqualung – Memory Man

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I should start by saying that I had never heard of Aqualung before this year, and it was only when I was invited to a concert by some friends of mine, that I had even heard a mention of the group. I agreed to go because Sara Bareilles was opening for them, and I always jump at the chance to see Sara live. Little did I know, that I would totally fall in love with Aqualung at the show; the performance knocked my socks off, and I knew that I wanted to hear more from this great artist. After the show, I went out and picked up their most recent release, Memory Man,only to have it also knock my socks off too, as well as to cement itself amongst my top records of the year.

The similarities to Radiohead are inescapable; Matt Hale’s voice (who is the one man behind Aqualung) definitely has a similar quality to that of Thom Yorke, but I really think Aqualung really have something that just makes you stop thinking “Radiohead-this-n-that”. Matt has this bittersweet way of crafting heartfelt and moving songs about love and emotion, and backs them with powerful electronic sounds and pulsating guitars. The electronic beats that he chooses make the music alive and vibrant, and at several points during Memory Man,you are confronted by a perfectly crafted dance/rock song that just makes you move in your seat.

Interestingly enough, as well as he crafts that electronic energy, he just as eloquently carves a beautiful and sweet love song that can bring you down and allows you to really feel the emotion behind the lyrics. In all, Aqualung has really crafted an amazing record with Memory Man, one that is a musical epic from beginning to end. I’ll openly admit that I was extremely surprised by how much I loved this album, and with each and every listen, I fall a little bit more in love with it; there really are only good things that I can say about it.

Memory Manis one of those amazing records that you can listen to once, and really enjoy it from beginning to end. However, the more you listen to it, the more you fall for the intricacies that are displayed in each song, and you realize how well crafted this album truly is. I for one, now consider myself a huge Aqualung fan, and will definitely be up for seeing them in concert in the future.

Favorites from Memory Man:
Cinderella
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/aqualung-cinderella.mp3]
Glimmer
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/aqualung-glimmer.mp3]
Broken Bones
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/aqualung-brokenbones.mp3]
Vapour Trail, Rolls So Deep, and Pressure Suit.

Rating:

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the 31 best of 2007 – 10: Paramore – Riot!

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I can’t believe it. We have made it to the top ten. Holy musical countdown Batman! Only nine more to go, kids!

Now, let’s get to my number 10 selection, the AMAZING second album by the pop/rock outfit Paramore, Riot!.Paramore fall into that category of groups that I had never heard of, but because they were mentioned somewhere, I felt compelled to check them out; and I have to say, I have damn good instincts. From the first energetic riff on their CD Riot!,and throughout the rest of the disc, Paramore take on the pop/punk/emo scene, and perform a fucking SHOW. Seriously, if you can sit still, and not want to jump up and down and have a good time listening to this record, you should probably check to make sure that you have a pulse.

This CD is not only a fantastic example of music done right, but it is also a breath of fresh air from an up and coming artist; it doesn’t surprise me that Paramore were nominated in the Best New Artist category for this year’s Grammys. They have spunk, attitude, flavor, and a kick ass sound that really bring the whole “emo-pop-punk-rock” music scene to a head. Fronted by an energetic female vocalist, these kids are doing what some of those other similar male fronted rock bands dream of; making the music fun at the same time they are making it good.

I have to say, that I only had to listen to this CD one time, before I knew it would be on my year end list; it is a solid disc throughout every song. There are a couple of songs that you could label as “ballads”, but even those have a backbone, and don’t mumble their feelings to you. This is one of those records that I can put on, and if I am in a foul mood, my feelings instantly change for the better; Paramore really now how to control their sound and make energetic and fantastic rock music.

Another thing that I LOVE about this CD, is that there are more than a few songs that you can literally just listen to on repeat, because they are so good. Take their most current single, Crushcrushcrush for instance; the first time I heard that song, I played it a good eight time in a row, and I still can’t get enough of it. Paramore really gets under your skin on Riot!, and they force you to have a great time, by bringing a great rock album for your ears to enjoy. This is a group that you should definitely keep an eye on, because they are going to be HUGE.

Favorites from Riot!,
crushcrushcrush
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/paramore-crushcrushcrush.mp3]
Born for This
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/paramore-bornforthis.mp3]
Hallelujah
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/paramore-hallelujah.mp3]
Misery Business, When It Rains, and For a Pessimist I’m Pretty Optimistic.

Rating:

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the 31 best of 2007 – 11: Annie Lennox – Songs of Mass Destruction

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I can’t believe I am posting so late today; but it has been a busy day, being it is the last working day before Christmas break. Either way, let’s get to today’s amazing selection, okay?

In at number 11 on this year’s list, is the fourth solo album by the amazing Scottish diva, Annie Lennox, entitled Songs of Mass Destruction.Being a fan of Annie Lennox for as long as I can remember definitely plays into how much I enjoyed this record, but even without a prior following, this record is totally brilliant. Annie comes back to us after her last raw effort, Bare, and this time, she has something that has been bugging her, and somethings that she needs to get off of her chest. She is clearly upset with the way things are going in the world with regards to war, poverty, AIDS, and women’s rights, and as such, these topics permeate many of the heartfelt songs on Songs of Mass Destruction.

Annie has always really struck me as such a diva, because of her amazing, and unique voice; if you hear it, you would instantly know that it was her singing. The power in her vocals is impressive, and shines on each and every track on this record. Like her solo albums of the past, Annie has the ability to make some show stopping songs, and pummel you with anthems that will certainly tug at your heartstrings. I am always amazed at how emotional she can be, and portray that completely with her voice.

Overall, the album is a beautiful, and strong effort from Annie; many are calling it her best solo album. I can’t ignore the amazing songs from her first and third albums, but I am inclined to say that this album is definitely something that Annie Lennox should be proud of; there isn’t a dull song in the bunch, and every song really says something, and portrays such meaning and feeling in a way that only Annie does it. To listen to this record is to really listen to a weathered and talented musician really make music, and it is a great sound to behold.

I must admit that I was super excited when I heard that Annie was releasing a record this year, and I had a feeling that it would end up on my best of list. Low and behold, it lived up to my expectations, and totally delivered the goods; this record is amazing… and as such, here it sits near the top of my list.

Favorites from Songs of Mass Destruction:
Smithereens
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/annielen-smithereens.mp3]
Through the Glass Darkly
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/annielen-throughtheglassdarkly.mp3]
Lost
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/annielen-lost.mp3]
Dark Road, and Sing (follow those links for youtube goodness).

Rating:

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the 31 best of 2007 – 12: The Bird and The Bee – The Bird and The Bee

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In at number 12 on my year end list, is the self titled debut record by The Bird & The Bee.This is one of those records that you listen to, and think, well, isn’t this just a swell record? You get images of Wally and the Beav, and think about picnics in the park on a quaint 60s afternoon… and then you listen to the lyrics. You quickly realize that underneath those airy, sweet, and innocent vocals, Inara Gorge is telling you like it is; and that often includes lyrics about violence, irritations in her life, and of course fucked up boyfriends.

Definitely an indie record, The Bird and The Bee is one of those records that are unique, mainly because they are doing their own thing, and doing it well. I remember checking them out after hearing several people speak highly of them, and now I see why they continually say such great things about this great band. They utilize electro-pop sounds, and traditional elements like tambourines and organ sounds, and the sound they create is both beautiful and mesmerizing. It would be a perfect soundtrack for a little coffee shop, where you would go and listen to poetry readings and enjoy a nice chai tea and maybe a slice of nice carrot cake. This CD is a light-hearted retro experience, but at the same time it’s fresh and new, and it works. It’s almost like a really great dessert; but one that isn’t so sweet that it overwhelms you. Instead, it gives you the sweetness and happiness you desire, leaving you feeling refreshed and full.

With the airy sweetness of Inara’s voice, I am slightly reminded of Imogen Heap’s Frou Frou CD, but I still think that it is unique in and of itself. What hooked me, and keeps me coming back again and again, is that the Bird and The Bee really do have this thing that makes you happy when you listen; it is a really great album. It is quirky, fun, retro, and again, fresh at the same time. The fun lyrical decisions also make this CD a great time from beginning to end; often times, with interesting surprises.

The only thing that I think could have made this CD better, is if they would have included the songs from the fantastic EP that they released recently called Please Clap Your Hands.Those songs compliment the debut album, and really show that they are moving forward with making their own great music; for which I am grateful to have discovered. Specifically, one of the songs on that EP (Polite Dance Song; go see the video of this great song!) epitomizes what I think of when I think of The Bird and The Bee; there is a politeness and properness to them, but just under the surface, they just want to hang out, have a good time, and maybe even get laid like everyone else. The EP, just like the record, is really, really good; and should be considered highly when one considers this record being on my best of list for 2007 (if you follow the amazon links, you will see that you can get both for less than $15; that’s totally the price of one CD!).

This is definitely great listening, from beginning to end; and I have to ask, who doesn’t want an enjoyable, and lighthearted listening experience? Well, I know that I do! I just hope I can see them in concert at some point in the future; I have heard they are just as amazing in person.

Favorite songs from The Bird & The Bee:
I Hate Camera
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/thebirdandbee-ihatecamera.mp3]
I’m a Broken Heart
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/thebirdandbee-imabrokenheart.mp3]
Fucking Boyfriend
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/thebirdandbee-fuckingbf.mp3]
Preparedness, and Spark.

Rating:

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion, well?

a(nother) quick note about the list

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Just a quick word, to let you guys know that as we whittle our way down to the end, each record’s place is chosen based on how much I enjoy it from here on out. That’s how it works with those records rated a perfect 5 stars on my scale; they will be listed by how much I enjoy them (meaning that the number one will be my number one record of the year). I felt the need to clarify, because someone asked me how I could say a record was flawless, and it not be my number one. Basically, if I rate something a 5 out of 5, then by definition, there really isn’t anything that I would say is bad about the record; it is in essence, pretty much near-perfect. However, I do enjoy some amazing/near-perfect albums more than others, and as such, those would rank higher on my list. That makes sense, right?

I hope that you are enjoying the list, as it has caused me a little stress trying to “rank” all of these amazing albums. However, I feel fairly confident that I have nailed down the list order from here on out, to truly and accurately reflect my ranking of each record by how much I enjoy it, and as such, but how amazing it is.

Finally, if there is something that you want to see in the next twelve days, SPEAK UP; it’s never too late for me to incorporate (or ignore… HA!) suggestions. I hope that everyone is enjoying the countdown, and I hope that everyone has found something to listen to that they enjoy. Today’s selection is coming shortly, so stay tuned!!