Stupidfresh Best Songs of 2009
2 Comments Published by Matt on Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at 9:36 PM.
It's my pleasure to present to you the StupidFresh Best Songs of 2009 list! This was a good year for music. I was spending more time at home (thanks to a certain someone who came to live with us), and that seemed to translate to mining for more music online.
Looking over these selections, a few themes become apparent.
(1) There aren't many new artists included. Not sure what that says about the state of music - you be the judge. That being said, many of our old favorite groups were making songs with a new edge to them. Jay-Z has two (count 'em, two!) tracks included here. His new album really surprised me with it's diversity of styles and forward thinking music.
(2) There's more hip-hop on here than I would've expected. I've been walking around with pennant for the past few years which reads " Hip-hop is dead', but it looks as if there now may be a resurrection. I will now lower, but not release, said pennant.
(3) I still have a place in my heart for quality song-writing, even if it isn't steeped in the acoustic-guitar singer-songwriter aesthetic that I used to savor. In particular, the Rain Machine, Dirty Projectors and Micachu tracks all are exquisitely written but come at you at little but from the left.
There were also a good amount of older songs that came my way in 2009, but aren't new. Don't fret - you can listen to those on the StupidFresh Best Songs of 2009 (new to me edition).
Ok, enough preamble jibber-jabber from me. Press play, listen up and enjoy! And of course, if you like anything you hear support the artists by buying their stuff.
1) Dirty Projectors + David Byrne - Knotty Pine
This is the lead track from the Dark Was the Night compilation that came out last February which produced a slew of great songs (even if they're not all included on this list). If you're new to the unique song writing approach the Dirty Projectors take to their songs, "Knotty Pine" is a great place to start. It's got the slightly jarring time signature, excellent vocals and harmonies (complimented here by David Byrne no less), and those freaky Dave Longstreth guitar lines. If someone asked me what genre this is, I'd say "tweaked-out art-rock with a twist", which admittedly doesn't mean anything at all. But it sure does sound good.
2) Jay-Z - Empire State of Mind (ft. Alicia Keys)
Ok, I know this song is a huge radio hit and is now all but ubiquitous. However, it's also completely awesome. In a year where NYC was on a crazy roller-coaster ride, it felt great to end up with a true anthem for the city. Hova's rhyme style is as tight as ever, the music is driving, and that chorus - I mean damn! Makes me feel good to live in the best city in the world.
3) Phoenix - Lisztomania
Even though Phoenix have been making great albums and playing crazy shows for years, 2009 was their breakout. It all seems to go back to that SNL appearance. And then there was the fan made brat-pack video, and then the Brooklyn video response. Its been a long time coming for the little French band that could. Lisztomania is from their newest record called Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix - the title alone would've gotten them on this list!
4) Devendra Banhart - Baby
Devendra always ran hot and cold for me. Some of his music is brilliant, and other songs are too out-there for me. And the fact that I peripherally hear about which young starlet he's dating took away from his appeal. All that being said, "Baby" is a perfect little pop-nugget. Picture in your mind your favorite fella or lady-friend, listen to this cut and then smile at the fact you're in love.
5) Kid Cudi - Make Her Say (ft. Kanye West, Common & A-Trak)
Nice lineup! Hip-hop's new wunderkind Kid Cudi takes control of the track declaring "Me first" and we're off. Kanye and Common contribute solid verses here too, and A-Track provides some fine scratches. Remember when scratching was a pre-requisite in a rap song?
6) Amy Millan - I Will Follow You Into the Dark
You may not recognize the name, but you'll know the voice. Amy Millan provides the distinct female vocals in the band Stars. She's been branching out on her own, and this year did a great cover of thisDecemberists Death Cab for Cutie track (nice catch John W.!) . A lil' slide guitar and some country twang never hurt anybody right?
7) Micachu & The Shapes - Golden Phone
It's fair to say that Micachu was this year's blogosphere darling (if there can be such a thing). People simply loved her. Listen to "Golden Phone" and it's easy to see why. The sound is fresh, raw and good. And she looks cute and weird, which the bloggers always like. Good for you Micachu.
8) Rain Machine - Smiling Black Faces
Rain Machine is the side-projector of Kyp Malone, better know for his work with TV On the Radio. I've only heard a handful of songs from the full-length, but "Smiling Black Faces" really took a hold of me. The lyrics are deep and challenging, the music is tricky and a touch sloppy, and the overall feeling is powerful.
9) Regina Spektor - Eet
It must be hard being Regina. I'd imagine she feels like she's on the razor's edge when releasing new songs. On one hand, her music has the potential to be too out-there for the masses that now celebrate her. On the other hand, her core fan-base really gravitate to her unique quirks and twitches. So I was glad to listen to her new album Far and marvel at her ability to dance on the razor's edge. This track "Eet" is pure-pop candy.
10) N.A.S.A - Gifted (ft. Kanye West, Santogold, Lykke Li)
This songs got a little somethin' for everyone. An electro dance track runs underneath providing a bed for Kanye to get aggro and nasty, Lykke to be Swedish and sweet, and allows Santogold to do whatever she does (which I can't figure out what it is that people seem to love so much). Even so, "Gifted" is a fun time and that is a good thing.
11) Junior Boys - Hazel
Take a little Depeche Mode, some New Order, a dash of Hot Chip, sprinkle in some Postal Service and stir thoroughly. Serve in a tall lipstick-stained glass and drink in one swallow. This magical combination will produce Junior Boys. Even though I heard they had a rough go of their live show earlier this year in NYC, the album still can't be denied, with this song "Hazel" being a standout.
12) Lee Fields & The Expressions - Ladies
I think he likes ladies.
13) Jay-Z - What We Talkin' About (ft. Luke Steele)
Track #2 from the jigga-man. I was compelled to include this not only for the sweet rhyming syncopation that starts the second verse, but also for that backup track! Was this song written for The Warriors soundtrack? Is this some future ish that I'm not familiar with? Kudos to Jay for going bleeding-edge in the '09.
14) The National - So Far Around the Bend
It would make sense that The National track from the Dark Was the Night compilation would be kick-ass. The album was curated by National members (and twin brothers) Bryce and Aaron Dessner. "So Far Around the Bend" shows the boys stretching out a bit and adding more pieces into the instrumentation. The clarinet with the delay on it really makes it for me on this song. In fact, I liked it so much I did a cover of it! My version will be showing up soon on the 2009 Infinite Regress Covers Mix Tape. For now you should thoroughly enjoy the original.
15) Volcano Choir - Island, IS
This is Justin Vernon on vocals, better known as Bon Iver. But this ain't your daddy's Bon Iver acoustic track - the opening guitar loop will make you aware of that. As Volcano Choir, Vernon makes a song that is hypnotic and dreamy, and makes me feel the slightest bit uncomfortable - which I'm ok with. Mostly.
16) The Streets - Trust Me
Mike Skinner (aka The Streets) used a pretty innovative technique this year when it came to releasing a slew of new tracks he had made. As opposed to releasing an album for purchase, or posting songs to his website, he opted to release songs, one-by-one on his Twitter feed. A blatant shtick? Sure, but it still caught my attention, and a lot of those songs were darn good, "Trust Me" being my favorite. A few weeks after it's debut, Skinner asked fans to remix the song and re-submit back on Twitter. Which I did with pleasure (check my remix here).
17) Dirty Projectors - Two Doves
Sure - I'll bookend this year's best-of list with the Dirty Projectors. I wrote about this song earlier this year here on SF, and at the time I was still unsure about the whole album, even though this track had already won my heart. Turns out all I needed was a little more time. Bitte Ocra is tremendous - there I said it.
*Thanks to Rebecca D. for the awesome illustration! Check out her work at Drawing Challenge.*
Looking over these selections, a few themes become apparent.
(1) There aren't many new artists included. Not sure what that says about the state of music - you be the judge. That being said, many of our old favorite groups were making songs with a new edge to them. Jay-Z has two (count 'em, two!) tracks included here. His new album really surprised me with it's diversity of styles and forward thinking music.
(2) There's more hip-hop on here than I would've expected. I've been walking around with pennant for the past few years which reads " Hip-hop is dead', but it looks as if there now may be a resurrection. I will now lower, but not release, said pennant.
(3) I still have a place in my heart for quality song-writing, even if it isn't steeped in the acoustic-guitar singer-songwriter aesthetic that I used to savor. In particular, the Rain Machine, Dirty Projectors and Micachu tracks all are exquisitely written but come at you at little but from the left.
There were also a good amount of older songs that came my way in 2009, but aren't new. Don't fret - you can listen to those on the StupidFresh Best Songs of 2009 (new to me edition).
Ok, enough preamble jibber-jabber from me. Press play, listen up and enjoy! And of course, if you like anything you hear support the artists by buying their stuff.
1) Dirty Projectors + David Byrne - Knotty Pine
This is the lead track from the Dark Was the Night compilation that came out last February which produced a slew of great songs (even if they're not all included on this list). If you're new to the unique song writing approach the Dirty Projectors take to their songs, "Knotty Pine" is a great place to start. It's got the slightly jarring time signature, excellent vocals and harmonies (complimented here by David Byrne no less), and those freaky Dave Longstreth guitar lines. If someone asked me what genre this is, I'd say "tweaked-out art-rock with a twist", which admittedly doesn't mean anything at all. But it sure does sound good.
2) Jay-Z - Empire State of Mind (ft. Alicia Keys)
Ok, I know this song is a huge radio hit and is now all but ubiquitous. However, it's also completely awesome. In a year where NYC was on a crazy roller-coaster ride, it felt great to end up with a true anthem for the city. Hova's rhyme style is as tight as ever, the music is driving, and that chorus - I mean damn! Makes me feel good to live in the best city in the world.
3) Phoenix - Lisztomania
Even though Phoenix have been making great albums and playing crazy shows for years, 2009 was their breakout. It all seems to go back to that SNL appearance. And then there was the fan made brat-pack video, and then the Brooklyn video response. Its been a long time coming for the little French band that could. Lisztomania is from their newest record called Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix - the title alone would've gotten them on this list!
4) Devendra Banhart - Baby
Devendra always ran hot and cold for me. Some of his music is brilliant, and other songs are too out-there for me. And the fact that I peripherally hear about which young starlet he's dating took away from his appeal. All that being said, "Baby" is a perfect little pop-nugget. Picture in your mind your favorite fella or lady-friend, listen to this cut and then smile at the fact you're in love.
5) Kid Cudi - Make Her Say (ft. Kanye West, Common & A-Trak)
Nice lineup! Hip-hop's new wunderkind Kid Cudi takes control of the track declaring "Me first" and we're off. Kanye and Common contribute solid verses here too, and A-Track provides some fine scratches. Remember when scratching was a pre-requisite in a rap song?
6) Amy Millan - I Will Follow You Into the Dark
You may not recognize the name, but you'll know the voice. Amy Millan provides the distinct female vocals in the band Stars. She's been branching out on her own, and this year did a great cover of this
7) Micachu & The Shapes - Golden Phone
It's fair to say that Micachu was this year's blogosphere darling (if there can be such a thing). People simply loved her. Listen to "Golden Phone" and it's easy to see why. The sound is fresh, raw and good. And she looks cute and weird, which the bloggers always like. Good for you Micachu.
8) Rain Machine - Smiling Black Faces
Rain Machine is the side-projector of Kyp Malone, better know for his work with TV On the Radio. I've only heard a handful of songs from the full-length, but "Smiling Black Faces" really took a hold of me. The lyrics are deep and challenging, the music is tricky and a touch sloppy, and the overall feeling is powerful.
9) Regina Spektor - Eet
It must be hard being Regina. I'd imagine she feels like she's on the razor's edge when releasing new songs. On one hand, her music has the potential to be too out-there for the masses that now celebrate her. On the other hand, her core fan-base really gravitate to her unique quirks and twitches. So I was glad to listen to her new album Far and marvel at her ability to dance on the razor's edge. This track "Eet" is pure-pop candy.
10) N.A.S.A - Gifted (ft. Kanye West, Santogold, Lykke Li)
This songs got a little somethin' for everyone. An electro dance track runs underneath providing a bed for Kanye to get aggro and nasty, Lykke to be Swedish and sweet, and allows Santogold to do whatever she does (which I can't figure out what it is that people seem to love so much). Even so, "Gifted" is a fun time and that is a good thing.
11) Junior Boys - Hazel
Take a little Depeche Mode, some New Order, a dash of Hot Chip, sprinkle in some Postal Service and stir thoroughly. Serve in a tall lipstick-stained glass and drink in one swallow. This magical combination will produce Junior Boys. Even though I heard they had a rough go of their live show earlier this year in NYC, the album still can't be denied, with this song "Hazel" being a standout.
12) Lee Fields & The Expressions - Ladies
I think he likes ladies.
13) Jay-Z - What We Talkin' About (ft. Luke Steele)
Track #2 from the jigga-man. I was compelled to include this not only for the sweet rhyming syncopation that starts the second verse, but also for that backup track! Was this song written for The Warriors soundtrack? Is this some future ish that I'm not familiar with? Kudos to Jay for going bleeding-edge in the '09.
14) The National - So Far Around the Bend
It would make sense that The National track from the Dark Was the Night compilation would be kick-ass. The album was curated by National members (and twin brothers) Bryce and Aaron Dessner. "So Far Around the Bend" shows the boys stretching out a bit and adding more pieces into the instrumentation. The clarinet with the delay on it really makes it for me on this song. In fact, I liked it so much I did a cover of it! My version will be showing up soon on the 2009 Infinite Regress Covers Mix Tape. For now you should thoroughly enjoy the original.
15) Volcano Choir - Island, IS
This is Justin Vernon on vocals, better known as Bon Iver. But this ain't your daddy's Bon Iver acoustic track - the opening guitar loop will make you aware of that. As Volcano Choir, Vernon makes a song that is hypnotic and dreamy, and makes me feel the slightest bit uncomfortable - which I'm ok with. Mostly.
16) The Streets - Trust Me
Mike Skinner (aka The Streets) used a pretty innovative technique this year when it came to releasing a slew of new tracks he had made. As opposed to releasing an album for purchase, or posting songs to his website, he opted to release songs, one-by-one on his Twitter feed. A blatant shtick? Sure, but it still caught my attention, and a lot of those songs were darn good, "Trust Me" being my favorite. A few weeks after it's debut, Skinner asked fans to remix the song and re-submit back on Twitter. Which I did with pleasure (check my remix here).
17) Dirty Projectors - Two Doves
Sure - I'll bookend this year's best-of list with the Dirty Projectors. I wrote about this song earlier this year here on SF, and at the time I was still unsure about the whole album, even though this track had already won my heart. Turns out all I needed was a little more time. Bitte Ocra is tremendous - there I said it.
*Thanks to Rebecca D. for the awesome illustration! Check out her work at Drawing Challenge.*
Labels: music
Welcome to the StupidFresh Best Songs of 2009 (new to me edition)! While I do spend a good amount of time listening to new music, I'm always looking for good songs. It turns out there's quite a bit of material that was released before 2009 (shocker, I know).
In contrast to the straight-up StupidFresh Best Songs of 2009 list, where I seemed to let myself pontificate maybe a bit too much on each track, I'm going to *try* and keep things brief on this list and let the music speak for itself.
Without further ado, enjoy these classic tracks that finally made their way to my ears this year.
1) Ricardo Marrero - Babalonia
And it starts with a boom! I heard this gem sandwiched smack-dab in the middle of O-dub's first Soul-Cast. Killer!
2) Billy Stewart - Summertime
You can thank Big Shanz for this one. Not to paint too broad of a stroke, but Billy Stewart should do a cover of every song ever in his unique scatting, use-way-too-many-words singing style. And for the love of all that is holy, please watch the video (get through the first 45-seconds or so) and marvel at this man's hat and pants.
3) Elbow - One Day Like This
This one was just shy of making the 2009 list, debuting in the grand ol' year of 2008. Anthemic and awesome.
4) MF Doom - Doomsday
Hippity-hop. Hop-hip-hop. Been checking into Doom's back catalog and Doomsday immediately rose to the top.
5) Michael Jackson - I Can't Help It
How could I resist? After MJs passing, his music was everywhere. And while most cars were bumping tracks from Thriller and Bad, I had a chance to discover "I Can't Help It" from the Off The Wall LP. Beyond just being a beautiful song, you may recognize the opening hook which was sampled for De La Soul's "Breakadawn"
6) Jay-Z - 99 Problems (ft. The Dap Kings)
I mean come on. Really - this is too good.
7) John Coltrane - Say It (Over and Over Again)
I was brought to this gorgeous Coltrane ballad by none other than my dad (yeah pops!). Sweet, slow and classic.
8) Archie Whitewater - Track 3
That "Track 3" isn't a typo. This Archie Whitewater song is a mystery track that was never officially released. The mix is a bit low and spotty at times - it's soulful as hell though.
9) Coke Escavado - I Wouldn't Change a Thing
Coke (real-name?) Escavado made one danceable track here. He also made an amazing daughter, one Sheila E. Nice work Coke.
10) Teddy Pendergrass - Turn Off the Lights
This track is the perfect blend of soul, dirty-talk and over-the-top suggestions. I love it. R. Kelly - you're nothing compared to the master.
*Thanks to Rebecca D. for the awesome illustration! Check out her work at Drawing Challenge.*
In contrast to the straight-up StupidFresh Best Songs of 2009 list, where I seemed to let myself pontificate maybe a bit too much on each track, I'm going to *try* and keep things brief on this list and let the music speak for itself.
Without further ado, enjoy these classic tracks that finally made their way to my ears this year.
1) Ricardo Marrero - Babalonia
And it starts with a boom! I heard this gem sandwiched smack-dab in the middle of O-dub's first Soul-Cast. Killer!
2) Billy Stewart - Summertime
You can thank Big Shanz for this one. Not to paint too broad of a stroke, but Billy Stewart should do a cover of every song ever in his unique scatting, use-way-too-many-words singing style. And for the love of all that is holy, please watch the video (get through the first 45-seconds or so) and marvel at this man's hat and pants.
3) Elbow - One Day Like This
This one was just shy of making the 2009 list, debuting in the grand ol' year of 2008. Anthemic and awesome.
4) MF Doom - Doomsday
Hippity-hop. Hop-hip-hop. Been checking into Doom's back catalog and Doomsday immediately rose to the top.
5) Michael Jackson - I Can't Help It
How could I resist? After MJs passing, his music was everywhere. And while most cars were bumping tracks from Thriller and Bad, I had a chance to discover "I Can't Help It" from the Off The Wall LP. Beyond just being a beautiful song, you may recognize the opening hook which was sampled for De La Soul's "Breakadawn"
6) Jay-Z - 99 Problems (ft. The Dap Kings)
I mean come on. Really - this is too good.
7) John Coltrane - Say It (Over and Over Again)
I was brought to this gorgeous Coltrane ballad by none other than my dad (yeah pops!). Sweet, slow and classic.
8) Archie Whitewater - Track 3
That "Track 3" isn't a typo. This Archie Whitewater song is a mystery track that was never officially released. The mix is a bit low and spotty at times - it's soulful as hell though.
9) Coke Escavado - I Wouldn't Change a Thing
Coke (real-name?) Escavado made one danceable track here. He also made an amazing daughter, one Sheila E. Nice work Coke.
10) Teddy Pendergrass - Turn Off the Lights
This track is the perfect blend of soul, dirty-talk and over-the-top suggestions. I love it. R. Kelly - you're nothing compared to the master.
*Thanks to Rebecca D. for the awesome illustration! Check out her work at Drawing Challenge.*
Labels: music
Not my usual - Bonnie Pointer
0 Comments Published by Matt on Friday, September 11, 2009 at 11:31 PM.
There are so many things I like about this song.
Give it a shot and hit me up in the comments with your thoughts.
Bonnie Pointer - More and More
- The two harmonics that open the song (which happen to be exactly the same ones used on Depeche Mode's "Personal Jesus" many years later)
- The bass is way up front and center in the mix - very unusual but the licks are so tasty!
- The use of the "Boooooooo" disco noise made popular in Anita Bell's "Ring My Bell"
- The fact that its sung by Bonnie Pointer of the Pointer Sisters
- The elusive nature of trying to categorize it. Country? Pop Ballad? R&B? All of the above.
Give it a shot and hit me up in the comments with your thoughts.
Bonnie Pointer - More and More
Labels: music
Take this lying down - Marvin Gaye
1 Comments Published by Matt on Friday, August 21, 2009 at 8:41 AM.
I mean, if you're going to sing a deep soul track, you're probably going to want to lie down. And you'll want your bass player to have dookie braids. That's the way Marvin would do it.
This clip is from the documentary "Remember Marvin Gaye" which chronicles the two years Marvin spent living and recording in Belgium (1981-1983). Ranztron and I checked the movie out at BAM a few years ago, and I remember being underwhelmed by the film itself. However, the recording sessions did stick with me and I was pleased as punch to see this clip come up on Soul Sides the other day.
Which brings me to my next question: Are music documentaries for dudes only? Amanda hates most of them and claims it's a boy thing. Early in our relationship I tried to get her to watch the making of Steely Dan's Aja, which is one of the most informative & entertaining documentaries ever made in this dude's opinion.
She hated it.
Is she right? Music & performance docs = boy's club? Hit me back in the comments.
This clip is from the documentary "Remember Marvin Gaye" which chronicles the two years Marvin spent living and recording in Belgium (1981-1983). Ranztron and I checked the movie out at BAM a few years ago, and I remember being underwhelmed by the film itself. However, the recording sessions did stick with me and I was pleased as punch to see this clip come up on Soul Sides the other day.
Which brings me to my next question: Are music documentaries for dudes only? Amanda hates most of them and claims it's a boy thing. Early in our relationship I tried to get her to watch the making of Steely Dan's Aja, which is one of the most informative & entertaining documentaries ever made in this dude's opinion.
She hated it.
Is she right? Music & performance docs = boy's club? Hit me back in the comments.
I'm cool with my level of hyperbole and gross generalization. You may not be. None of this changes the fact that this is undoubtedly the best website ever.
Thanks Marc.
Thanks Marc.
Labels: artsy, music, technology
Stupidfresh Best 18 Songs of 2008
4 Comments Published by Matt on Saturday, December 13, 2008 at 8:37 AM.
Another end of the year, another time to reflect on the music we've heard in the past 12 months. I myself did not think it was as strong a year as last, but there were certainly some bright moments. Actually in listening to the songs all at once I will recant and say there were some AWESOME tracks this year. I'm going to let the songs speak (or sing) for themselves.
Feel free to listen or download each track here, or download the lot of them at the bottom.
Happy Holidays!
1. Fleet Foxes - Blue Ridge Mountains
2. Don Cavalli - New Hollywood Babylon
3. Chico Mann - Dilo Como Yo
4. M.I.A. - Paper Planes (DFA Remix)
5. Haley Bonar - Big Star
6. The Mountain Goats and Kaki King - Thank You Mario But Our Princess is in Another Castle
7. Nat Baldwin - Lake Erie
8. Girl Talk - No Pause
9. The Chandeliers - Gold Rush
10. Estelle - American Boy (feat. Kanye)
11. Hercules & Love Affair - Blind (feat. Antony Hegarty)
12. Erykah Badu - Soldier
13. Shelovesmeshelovesmenot - Lina Says
14. Aimee Mann - Thirty One Today
15. Mayer Hawthorne and The County - Just Ain't Gonna Work Out
16. Q-Tip - Wont Trade
17. Albert Hammond, Jr. - GfC
18. Jenny Lewis - Acid Tongue
Download the zip archive of the Stupidfresh Best 18 songs of 2008
Feel free to listen or download each track here, or download the lot of them at the bottom.
Happy Holidays!
1. Fleet Foxes - Blue Ridge Mountains
2. Don Cavalli - New Hollywood Babylon
3. Chico Mann - Dilo Como Yo
4. M.I.A. - Paper Planes (DFA Remix)
5. Haley Bonar - Big Star
6. The Mountain Goats and Kaki King - Thank You Mario But Our Princess is in Another Castle
7. Nat Baldwin - Lake Erie
8. Girl Talk - No Pause
9. The Chandeliers - Gold Rush
10. Estelle - American Boy (feat. Kanye)
11. Hercules & Love Affair - Blind (feat. Antony Hegarty)
12. Erykah Badu - Soldier
13. Shelovesmeshelovesmenot - Lina Says
14. Aimee Mann - Thirty One Today
15. Mayer Hawthorne and The County - Just Ain't Gonna Work Out
16. Q-Tip - Wont Trade
17. Albert Hammond, Jr. - GfC
18. Jenny Lewis - Acid Tongue
Download the zip archive of the Stupidfresh Best 18 songs of 2008
Labels: music
Infinite Regress Collective Mixtape 2008
0 Comments Published by Matt on Friday, December 12, 2008 at 9:50 AM.
This is year two for the Infinite Regress Collective Mixtape project on Tim's blog of the same name, Infinite Regress.
The concept of how the project works is simple:
This year I decided to stay in this century and had a go with "Ready for the Floor" originally by Hot Chip. You can check the post on Infinite Regress with more description.
Here is the cover itself for your listening pleasure.
Ready For the Floor (Cover) - Lippy
I highly recommend keeping up with the daily posts on IR - they are sure to be varied, inspirational and good ol' fashioned fun.
The concept of how the project works is simple:
- People pick a song to cover and record to submit to the mixtape. Preferably the song would be from the last year of music (a guideline I totally missed in the 2007 mixtape when I covered a Yaz track from 1982!)
- Tim collects all of the cover songs people submit, and begins posting them day by day for listening and commenting.
- Once it's all finished up he burns them all to CDs with killer original cover art and sends them out to participants, friends and loved ones.
This year I decided to stay in this century and had a go with "Ready for the Floor" originally by Hot Chip. You can check the post on Infinite Regress with more description.
Here is the cover itself for your listening pleasure.
Ready For the Floor (Cover) - Lippy
I highly recommend keeping up with the daily posts on IR - they are sure to be varied, inspirational and good ol' fashioned fun.
Well here's a little ditty just for you ! I've put together this (almost) hour long mix called groovetime. It's a collection of some of my favorite songs I've heard in the last few months, pasted together with a few extra edits and treats along the way.
Tracklisting:
1. Intro - Guitar
2. Zadie Bobo - Ernesto Djedje
3. Paper Planes (DFA Remix) - M.I.A.
4. DWYCK (Little Kids remix) - Gang Starr
5. Ooh Baby- Pamoja (DJ Lippy Edit)
6. Gimme Some (Mike Mangini Remix) - Nina Simone
7. Tears Dry on their Own (New Young Pony Club Fucked-Up Remix) - Amy Winehouse
8. Honey (Captain Planet Remix) - Erykah Badu
9. Groove Time (DJ Lippy Edit)- Monguito Santamaria
10. Theme from Which Way is Up? - Stargard
11. All Through the Night - Escort
12. Gold Rush - The Chandeliers
13. Raid (Koushik Remix) - Madvillain
14. Uphill Peace of Mind - Carol Grimes
15. Stand (Larry Levin Mix) - The Joubert Singers
16. Lady - Modjo
17. Outro - Guitar
Here's groovetime as one long mp3 to listen to or download:
DJ Lippy - groovetime
Also, here is a .zip file of the mix split into separate tracks
DJ Lippy - groovetime ZIP
Hit me up with some comments and tell me what you think!
Tracklisting:
1. Intro - Guitar
2. Zadie Bobo - Ernesto Djedje
3. Paper Planes (DFA Remix) - M.I.A.
4. DWYCK (Little Kids remix) - Gang Starr
5. Ooh Baby- Pamoja (DJ Lippy Edit)
6. Gimme Some (Mike Mangini Remix) - Nina Simone
7. Tears Dry on their Own (New Young Pony Club Fucked-Up Remix) - Amy Winehouse
8. Honey (Captain Planet Remix) - Erykah Badu
9. Groove Time (DJ Lippy Edit)- Monguito Santamaria
10. Theme from Which Way is Up? - Stargard
11. All Through the Night - Escort
12. Gold Rush - The Chandeliers
13. Raid (Koushik Remix) - Madvillain
14. Uphill Peace of Mind - Carol Grimes
15. Stand (Larry Levin Mix) - The Joubert Singers
16. Lady - Modjo
17. Outro - Guitar
Here's groovetime as one long mp3 to listen to or download:
DJ Lippy - groovetime
Also, here is a .zip file of the mix split into separate tracks
DJ Lippy - groovetime ZIP
Hit me up with some comments and tell me what you think!
Labels: music
"Easy Heaven" - Best Mashup Ever (The Commodores vs. The Cure)
3 Comments Published by Matt on Thursday, December 4, 2008 at 9:48 AM.
Mashups are cool and all. You know - when a DJ takes the instrumental of one song and layers the acapella vocal of a different song on top of it? They've been created by DJs for years - some would contest it started in the 80s. But the medium really hit it's stride in the past three years or so.
Some of you might be familiar with the work of Girl Talk who seamlessly combines dozens of tracks into one cohesive song. While I do love his stuff, it goes beyond the pure mashup format - a winning combination of just two tracks.
A mashup is at it's best when the resulting song becomes a new entity unto itself. It goes beyond two disparate songs which blend well together, or just creating funny moments hearing two disparate styles/genres/decades/etc. combined.
The best mashups transcend the work of the originals and form a new wholly realized song.
The finest example I've heard to date is "Easy Heaven" by BRAT productions. It takes the instrumental of The Commodores "Easy (Like a Sunday Morning)" and replaces the lyrics with The Cure's "Just Like Heaven." It's perfection.
Slow down.
Sit back.
Have a listen and enjoy:
Easy Heaven (Mashup) - BRAT Productions
Direct link to Wired Listening Post blog post where I read about this
Direct link to BRAT site for more info
And finally, yes - I did create that image of Robert Smith as a member of The Commodores. Not bad eh?
Some of you might be familiar with the work of Girl Talk who seamlessly combines dozens of tracks into one cohesive song. While I do love his stuff, it goes beyond the pure mashup format - a winning combination of just two tracks.
A mashup is at it's best when the resulting song becomes a new entity unto itself. It goes beyond two disparate songs which blend well together, or just creating funny moments hearing two disparate styles/genres/decades/etc. combined.
The best mashups transcend the work of the originals and form a new wholly realized song.
The finest example I've heard to date is "Easy Heaven" by BRAT productions. It takes the instrumental of The Commodores "Easy (Like a Sunday Morning)" and replaces the lyrics with The Cure's "Just Like Heaven." It's perfection.
Slow down.
Sit back.
Have a listen and enjoy:
Easy Heaven (Mashup) - BRAT Productions
Direct link to Wired Listening Post blog post where I read about this
Direct link to BRAT site for more info
And finally, yes - I did create that image of Robert Smith as a member of The Commodores. Not bad eh?
Labels: music
The Sixteen Most Stupidfresh Songs of 2007
1 Comments Published by Matt on Wednesday, December 19, 2007 at 8:14 PM.
And away we go! 2007 was a great year for music across the board. New releases from some of my favorite artists, and tons of songs by new bands provided the soundtrack to the past 12 months. As usual, I was also exposed to some tracks that have been around for years, decades in some instances, that have been totally off my radar.
Many thanks to all of you who have shared your music with me - we're all in this together!
I humbly present the the Sixteen Most Stupidfresh Songs of 2007. Almost all tracks were released in the past year, but some are classics that warranted inclusion here. Have a listen and let me know what you think! As always, if you download something you like please support the artist by buying their album or seeing them on tour.
1. Wilco - Either Way
A lot of people were not down with the latest Wilco record Sky Blue Sky (and even fewer supported their "sell-out" in Volkswagen ads. To me, the new tracks were a bit more adult and less adventurous, but they still packed the same emotional wallop of the past few albums. Mind the guitar riffage about 3/4's in.
2. The Blow - Parantheses
You can thank Rebecca for this one. This track is just so darned cute! The remix for this track showed up on the CD for this year's Believer music issue, but I'll take the original, thanks.
3. Justice - D.A.N.C.E.
They said it was going to be the biggest indie club hit of the summer, and they weren't kidding! You could hear this coming out of bars, clubs, cars all summer. If there was a white belt nearby, D.A.N.C.E. wasn't far behind.
4. Elliott Smith - New Monkey
The posthumous double-disc New Moon was a stand-out this year. It completely reinvented Elliott for me and reminded me why his music resonated so deeply in the first place.
5. The Magic Numbers - This Is A Song
When this track come out, I described it as the perfect pop song. Almost a year later, I'm going to take that back and offer that it is a perfectly constructed song instead. It's a musical journey rather than a piece of pop candy to be enjoyed frivolously. Maybe it's all those pop harmonies that duped me the first time around.
6. Toots and the Maytals - Pressure Drop
Sure, I love the reggae as much as the next guy, but somehow this track eluded me until a few months back. I had probably heard the Robert Palmer cover version while riding in elevators by and the like, but this original immediately chills me out and before I know I'm sipping on an ice-cold Red Stripe.
7. Esau Mwamwaya - Tengazako
Music for Robots passed along the demo of this African artist. It took me a while to make the connection that he's simply singing over the instrumental of M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes" - but who cares? I honestly didn't quite feel the power of this song until I passed it along to a few unaffiliated friends who each came back singing its praises. And yes, I agree the gun shots at the end are a bit aggressive but you gotta take the good with the bad.
8. Tigercity - Other Girls
If you, me and my iPod were at a party this summer you probably heard "Other Girls". Falsetto galore and tight transitions make for a good time. I foolishly missed Tiger City while they held a residency at the Mercury Lounge this summer. Were you there?
9. New Buffalo - Cheer Me Up Thank You
Slow and steady wins the race on this one. When it pops up on shuffle it always brings a smile. You may also want to check out the a capella cover (posted today!) over at Infinite Regress and their cover song project.
10. Amy Winehouse - Tears Dry On Their Own (NYPC's Fucked Mix)
All tabloidery aside, the girl's got chops. This remix by New Young Pony Club would make LCD Soundsystem head back to remix school. A perfect, in not unexpected, collaboration. Put this on and let it all hang out.
11. Stars - The Ghost Of Genova Heights
My first reaction to the new Stars record In Our Bedroom after the War was "feh". Kind of a mediocre step back in my opinion. Genova Heights however is one of the few stand outs. It reminds me of the afore listed Tiger City track in many ways - falsetto vocals and quality dong writing. But Stars is more mature, with a much higher production value. The panned guitars at the song's close make it all worthwhile.
12. LCD Soundsystem - Time To Get Away
This song speaks for itself.
13. Kevin Drew - Tbtf
Is it considered a side project if the front-man from Broken Social Scene records his own album largely with the members of BSS? Maybe it's all in the marketing. In any event, Spirit If was a triumph. It was presented this summer live, opening for Feist (heard of her?) at McCarren Pool in Willy-B. While the chorus of TBTF is not safe for work, the song is still a beauty.
14. Bright Eyes - If The Brakeman Turns My Way
And you can thank Big Ranz for this. I have shunned Bright Eyes for years, feeling he is the pretty-boy version of Eliott Smith, and resenting him for no good reason (yea - I can be like that at times). Thank goodness Ranz told me to shut it and listen to Cassedega. It instantly reminded me of The Band with its production and instrumentation. And he wasn't nearly the whiny little punk I though he would be. In fact it appears he's all growns up and cutting great tracks.
15. Page France - Without a Diamond Ring
I don't know much about Page France, except their tracks seem to make it on every music blog I read. And thank goodness for that! This song is subdued and smoky. I love his awkward voice.
16. Aretha Franklin - Bridge Over Troubled Water
This song had more effect on me than any other in 2007. A hidden gem in the ruins of pop music, Aretha's take on the Simon & Garfunkle classic has it all. It is such a fresh interpretation of the song's essence. Treating it as a gospel song, Aretha let's the song breathe, allowing instrumental passages to weave around the vocal. I played this as my last song when I DJ'd this past Fall at Last Exit and their wasn't a dry eye in the house.
Many thanks to all of you who have shared your music with me - we're all in this together!
I humbly present the the Sixteen Most Stupidfresh Songs of 2007. Almost all tracks were released in the past year, but some are classics that warranted inclusion here. Have a listen and let me know what you think! As always, if you download something you like please support the artist by buying their album or seeing them on tour.
1. Wilco - Either Way
A lot of people were not down with the latest Wilco record Sky Blue Sky (and even fewer supported their "sell-out" in Volkswagen ads. To me, the new tracks were a bit more adult and less adventurous, but they still packed the same emotional wallop of the past few albums. Mind the guitar riffage about 3/4's in.
2. The Blow - Parantheses
You can thank Rebecca for this one. This track is just so darned cute! The remix for this track showed up on the CD for this year's Believer music issue, but I'll take the original, thanks.
3. Justice - D.A.N.C.E.
They said it was going to be the biggest indie club hit of the summer, and they weren't kidding! You could hear this coming out of bars, clubs, cars all summer. If there was a white belt nearby, D.A.N.C.E. wasn't far behind.
4. Elliott Smith - New Monkey
The posthumous double-disc New Moon was a stand-out this year. It completely reinvented Elliott for me and reminded me why his music resonated so deeply in the first place.
5. The Magic Numbers - This Is A Song
When this track come out, I described it as the perfect pop song. Almost a year later, I'm going to take that back and offer that it is a perfectly constructed song instead. It's a musical journey rather than a piece of pop candy to be enjoyed frivolously. Maybe it's all those pop harmonies that duped me the first time around.
6. Toots and the Maytals - Pressure Drop
Sure, I love the reggae as much as the next guy, but somehow this track eluded me until a few months back. I had probably heard the Robert Palmer cover version while riding in elevators by and the like, but this original immediately chills me out and before I know I'm sipping on an ice-cold Red Stripe.
7. Esau Mwamwaya - Tengazako
Music for Robots passed along the demo of this African artist. It took me a while to make the connection that he's simply singing over the instrumental of M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes" - but who cares? I honestly didn't quite feel the power of this song until I passed it along to a few unaffiliated friends who each came back singing its praises. And yes, I agree the gun shots at the end are a bit aggressive but you gotta take the good with the bad.
8. Tigercity - Other Girls
If you, me and my iPod were at a party this summer you probably heard "Other Girls". Falsetto galore and tight transitions make for a good time. I foolishly missed Tiger City while they held a residency at the Mercury Lounge this summer. Were you there?
9. New Buffalo - Cheer Me Up Thank You
Slow and steady wins the race on this one. When it pops up on shuffle it always brings a smile. You may also want to check out the a capella cover (posted today!) over at Infinite Regress and their cover song project.
10. Amy Winehouse - Tears Dry On Their Own (NYPC's Fucked Mix)
All tabloidery aside, the girl's got chops. This remix by New Young Pony Club would make LCD Soundsystem head back to remix school. A perfect, in not unexpected, collaboration. Put this on and let it all hang out.
11. Stars - The Ghost Of Genova Heights
My first reaction to the new Stars record In Our Bedroom after the War was "feh". Kind of a mediocre step back in my opinion. Genova Heights however is one of the few stand outs. It reminds me of the afore listed Tiger City track in many ways - falsetto vocals and quality dong writing. But Stars is more mature, with a much higher production value. The panned guitars at the song's close make it all worthwhile.
12. LCD Soundsystem - Time To Get Away
This song speaks for itself.
13. Kevin Drew - Tbtf
Is it considered a side project if the front-man from Broken Social Scene records his own album largely with the members of BSS? Maybe it's all in the marketing. In any event, Spirit If was a triumph. It was presented this summer live, opening for Feist (heard of her?) at McCarren Pool in Willy-B. While the chorus of TBTF is not safe for work, the song is still a beauty.
14. Bright Eyes - If The Brakeman Turns My Way
And you can thank Big Ranz for this. I have shunned Bright Eyes for years, feeling he is the pretty-boy version of Eliott Smith, and resenting him for no good reason (yea - I can be like that at times). Thank goodness Ranz told me to shut it and listen to Cassedega. It instantly reminded me of The Band with its production and instrumentation. And he wasn't nearly the whiny little punk I though he would be. In fact it appears he's all growns up and cutting great tracks.
15. Page France - Without a Diamond Ring
I don't know much about Page France, except their tracks seem to make it on every music blog I read. And thank goodness for that! This song is subdued and smoky. I love his awkward voice.
16. Aretha Franklin - Bridge Over Troubled Water
This song had more effect on me than any other in 2007. A hidden gem in the ruins of pop music, Aretha's take on the Simon & Garfunkle classic has it all. It is such a fresh interpretation of the song's essence. Treating it as a gospel song, Aretha let's the song breathe, allowing instrumental passages to weave around the vocal. I played this as my last song when I DJ'd this past Fall at Last Exit and their wasn't a dry eye in the house.
Labels: music
Hey there Internet reader. Long time no see.
Here we are at year end and many a website you know and trust is offering it's Best Of 2007 lists. I do love me a list, and I have a few go-tos for the music. It reminds me of some of the great tunes from the past year, and more often than not it exposes me to tracks completely off my radar. You may like to peruse:
Said The Gramophone Best Music Songs of 2007 - 50 downloadable (for now) songs with an indie slant but some rap and miscellany in there as well
Pitchfork's Top 100 Tracks of 2007 - This is a lot more all over the map, but their indie selections are fairly snobby (hey it is Pitchfork after all). A mix of downloadable MP3s, streams and videos. Worth a look, overwhelming at times.
And for the visual learners out there, check out the 12 Best Music Videos of the Year. Something for everyone.
I'll be posting my own Best of 2007 list, with possible d'loads for you, but these should whet your whistle for now. In the meantime, let's round it out with my pick for the best video of the year:
Here we are at year end and many a website you know and trust is offering it's Best Of 2007 lists. I do love me a list, and I have a few go-tos for the music. It reminds me of some of the great tunes from the past year, and more often than not it exposes me to tracks completely off my radar. You may like to peruse:
Said The Gramophone Best Music Songs of 2007 - 50 downloadable (for now) songs with an indie slant but some rap and miscellany in there as well
Pitchfork's Top 100 Tracks of 2007 - This is a lot more all over the map, but their indie selections are fairly snobby (hey it is Pitchfork after all). A mix of downloadable MP3s, streams and videos. Worth a look, overwhelming at times.
And for the visual learners out there, check out the 12 Best Music Videos of the Year. Something for everyone.
I'll be posting my own Best of 2007 list, with possible d'loads for you, but these should whet your whistle for now. In the meantime, let's round it out with my pick for the best video of the year:
I've been quietly working on this one for a minute. I used to work with a guy named Hakim - he's one of those people you hope you have the pleasure of being around when you're on the j-o-b. Hakim would sing his way through the workday, and would often make up songs about things that happened and the people he interacted with.
The thing is - the dude has chops. Sure, I know you have some dude at your job that does the same thing, but they don't sound as good as Hakim.
Before moving on to a new gig, we recorded a bunch of acapella tracks to have on hand. I now present the first of what I hope are many Hakim's Moods remixes. I know isn't my normal "style" of music to make, but whatever. It sounds right, and I like trying new things. Let's go hang gliding together sometime.
Lippy (ft. Hakim) - Bang That Door
The thing is - the dude has chops. Sure, I know you have some dude at your job that does the same thing, but they don't sound as good as Hakim.
Before moving on to a new gig, we recorded a bunch of acapella tracks to have on hand. I now present the first of what I hope are many Hakim's Moods remixes. I know isn't my normal "style" of music to make, but whatever. It sounds right, and I like trying new things. Let's go hang gliding together sometime.
Lippy (ft. Hakim) - Bang That Door
Labels: music
Tomorrow Night: DJ Lippy presents Stupidfresh
0 Comments Published by Matt on Thursday, November 15, 2007 at 4:52 PM.
Please know I have procured vinyl copies of:
It's all incredibly correct. Hope to see you and yours tomorrow night!
The Final Countdown:
What: DJ Lippy presents Stupidfresh
When: Friday November 16th, 10pm until really late
Where: Last Exit - 136 Atlantic (Clinton/Henry)
Why: Because you need this
$: FREE!
Check below for all the graphical details. Invite any and all, the more the sweatier. Keep Bangin'...
DJ Lippy
- "No Diggity" by Blackstreet
- "Islands in the Stream" by Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton
- and Aretha Franklin doing a soul rendition of "Bridge Over Troubled Water"
It's all incredibly correct. Hope to see you and yours tomorrow night!
The Final Countdown:
What: DJ Lippy presents Stupidfresh
When: Friday November 16th, 10pm until really late
Where: Last Exit - 136 Atlantic (Clinton/Henry)
Why: Because you need this
$: FREE!
Check below for all the graphical details. Invite any and all, the more the sweatier. Keep Bangin'...
DJ Lippy
DJ Lippy presents Stupidfresh - November 16th
0 Comments Published by Matt on Friday, November 2, 2007 at 11:17 PM.Imogene Heap - One versus many
3 Comments Published by Matt on Thursday, October 18, 2007 at 6:45 PM.
I've been loving on this song "Hide and Seek" for over a year now. It was performed by Imogene Heap, former front-woman of Frou Frou. Even though it's sung acapella, it's a complex song in many respects. Right off the bat you'll notice there are about a dozen Imogene's in there. It makes for a really lush, layered sound. There are also a good amount of effects on her different vocal tracks that make it sound processed and robotic at times.
Then there are the lyrics: personal and challenging, stark and beautiful. I mean:
Here is the original track:
Imogene Heap - Hide and Seek
Now, the reason this was all brought up in the first place is my man Benge played an acapella version of Hide and Seek on his weekly radio show Sex Fly (which you can listen to live, or tap into the the archives at WRUV's website.) This version was done by the UCLA Awaken Acapella group.
I'll make fun of acapella as quickly as the next blogger (I mean look at the dudes' photo), but I really like listening to these two tracks back to back. It really reinforces how strong Imogene's performance is.
Here is the UCLA take: UCLA Awaken Acapella - Hide and Seek (cover)
So, take a listen compare, contrast and discuss!
Then there are the lyrics: personal and challenging, stark and beautiful. I mean:
where are we?
what the hell is going on?
the dust has only just begun to fall
crop circles in the carpet
sinking feeling
spin me round again
and rub my eyes,
this can't be happening
when busy streets a mess with people
would stop to hold their heads - heavy
Here is the original track:
Imogene Heap - Hide and Seek
Now, the reason this was all brought up in the first place is my man Benge played an acapella version of Hide and Seek on his weekly radio show Sex Fly (which you can listen to live, or tap into the the archives at WRUV's website.) This version was done by the UCLA Awaken Acapella group.
I'll make fun of acapella as quickly as the next blogger (I mean look at the dudes' photo), but I really like listening to these two tracks back to back. It really reinforces how strong Imogene's performance is.
Here is the UCLA take: UCLA Awaken Acapella - Hide and Seek (cover)
So, take a listen compare, contrast and discuss!
Labels: music
A score from halfway around the world
1 Comments Published by Matt on Sunday, June 3, 2007 at 4:35 PM.I love records. Like all beat diggers, I have a long list in my head of certain platters that are still on my want-list. These little buggers have alluded me all my life.
Last week I got an email from my eBay notifier that there was a copy of Sandwiches by the Detroit Grand Pubahs available. I've gotten this email before, but it usually led to a posting of a bootleg copy with no original track, or even worse - a CD of the song in question.
But this one was the real deal! It was from a seller in Japan of all places and after a few days of bidding I wound up being the winner. It didn't cost much, but the shipping was twice the purchase price. Totally worth it. It arrived today, Sunday (!) and is spinning on my hi-fi as I type this.
The song is amazing. Year 2000 Electro love, and weird as hell. And would you look at that album cover? A sandwich on a portable turntable. Looks, and sounds, like heaven to me.
Keep dreaming my friends, it can all become reality.
Labels: music
Air / TV on the Radio Review - May 10 Theater at MSG
0 Comments Published by Matt on Tuesday, May 15, 2007 at 11:34 AM.
Amanda & I went to see Air play at the Theater at MSG last week (May 10th) as part of the Highline Festival. A few days earlier, it was announced that TV on the Radio were going to open with an acoustic set. Did someone creep into my brain and ask me what my favorite line up would be? This was pretty close.
The show was great. TV killed it, playing stripped down versions of rocking tunes. To be honest, I'd written them off as of late - so much press as the indie darlings in the last year. I guess I still get that little 18 year old in me who gets all pissed when other people start liking my favorite band (lets call this the Pearl Jam Problem).
Their performance last week brought me back to why I love them in the first place. It's indie rock soul music. Tunde is belting out some deep, and often times dark lyrics up there. He throws his whole boy into it and the band is along for the ride. Testify Tunde!
Here's a clip of the song "Tonight" from the show, that also showcases their use of typewriter in the set.
Air followed with a mellow and sexy set - no shocker there. This was my first Air show, and I never realised that while one of the Frenchies is playing keyboard, the other on the bass guitar. Ripping it no less!
This clip doesn't feature the bass, but it does show a nice version of "Cherry Blossom Girl".
Is anyone else amazed that I can go onto youtube and find someone who filmed lots of songs from this show and now I can blog about here? For me it's a mix of great and gross (also known as a situation of "crap-candy"). I mean, awesome that I can share this, but it does take away from the special memories I have of living through these songs.
Is this my new Pearl Jam problem?
The show was great. TV killed it, playing stripped down versions of rocking tunes. To be honest, I'd written them off as of late - so much press as the indie darlings in the last year. I guess I still get that little 18 year old in me who gets all pissed when other people start liking my favorite band (lets call this the Pearl Jam Problem).
Their performance last week brought me back to why I love them in the first place. It's indie rock soul music. Tunde is belting out some deep, and often times dark lyrics up there. He throws his whole boy into it and the band is along for the ride. Testify Tunde!
Here's a clip of the song "Tonight" from the show, that also showcases their use of typewriter in the set.
Air followed with a mellow and sexy set - no shocker there. This was my first Air show, and I never realised that while one of the Frenchies is playing keyboard, the other on the bass guitar. Ripping it no less!
This clip doesn't feature the bass, but it does show a nice version of "Cherry Blossom Girl".
Is anyone else amazed that I can go onto youtube and find someone who filmed lots of songs from this show and now I can blog about here? For me it's a mix of great and gross (also known as a situation of "crap-candy"). I mean, awesome that I can share this, but it does take away from the special memories I have of living through these songs.
Is this my new Pearl Jam problem?
If you love the new LCD Soundsystem record (I know I do), you'll probably enjoy the unofficial remix album already online and free to download.
Check it: http://lcdremixed.com/
Labels: music
Some great Daft Punk videos to get you energized for the shows this summer:
This one minute video shows a small smattering of where Daft Punk got their samples from. Who knew they were borrowing such large chunks form other sources? House beats make everything sound good.
For a full list of Daft Punk samples check here. Thanks to Dro for the heads up.
A mash-up of people doing the Charleston dance set to "Around The World" by Daft Punk:
I hate acapella music. No really - it's irritating. However this rendition of Harder, Better, Better, Faster, Stronger makes me only want to beat them up a little bit.
This one minute video shows a small smattering of where Daft Punk got their samples from. Who knew they were borrowing such large chunks form other sources? House beats make everything sound good.
For a full list of Daft Punk samples check here. Thanks to Dro for the heads up.
A mash-up of people doing the Charleston dance set to "Around The World" by Daft Punk:
I hate acapella music. No really - it's irritating. However this rendition of Harder, Better, Better, Faster, Stronger makes me only want to beat them up a little bit.
The new LCD Soundsystem record "Sound of Silver" dropped today. Leader James Murphy (as in the band leader, not my leader - although he may as well be) is hoping to hit the Top 40 charts and he's encouraging fans to buy the album this week to help bolster the sales.
I bought my copy from Virgin Megastore tonight for $10 - CHEAP!
You can listen to samples on their site here.
And because I loves ya', here is my favorite track, in full right here on Stupidfresh:
LCD Soundsystem - Time to Get Away
I would also highly reccomend their live show - they are currently on tour.
I bought my copy from Virgin Megastore tonight for $10 - CHEAP!
You can listen to samples on their site here.
And because I loves ya', here is my favorite track, in full right here on Stupidfresh:
LCD Soundsystem - Time to Get Away
I would also highly reccomend their live show - they are currently on tour.
Labels: music
I remember being 13 years old going into the city and grabbin a copy of the Village Voice's Pazz & Jop Awards issue. De La Soul's 3 Feet High and Rising swept every category.
I went out the next day and bought a copy - my life (and hip-hop) were changed forever.
Below is a seven minute slice of that. This was straight ripped from www.soul-sides.com. Via Big Ranz.
I went out the next day and bought a copy - my life (and hip-hop) were changed forever.
Below is a seven minute slice of that. This was straight ripped from www.soul-sides.com. Via Big Ranz.
I keep seeing things recently that make me think we are in the future. The Google Books project was one. The possibility of an African-American or female president was another.
But this really takes the cake.
Below is a demo video for the Monome. It's a musical instrument that works off of a computer feed to sequence, cue, loop and trigger music. I'm sorry but the future is now! Watch it.
But this really takes the cake.
Below is a demo video for the Monome. It's a musical instrument that works off of a computer feed to sequence, cue, loop and trigger music. I'm sorry but the future is now! Watch it.
Info courtesy of The Shamblers via RD.
Labels: music, technology
All the bands you love have been putting out new music recently Here are a few cuts you may be interested in.
The Magic Numbers - This is a Song
This is the year for The Magic Numbers. Their first album was critically acclaimed, but didn't do a whole lot to crossover. When you listen to this first single from their upcoming sophomoric release, you can instantly recognize the genius. The songwriting is tighter than ever, and the playing is markedly better. Love that bass.
Air - Once Upon a Time
Our favorite French band is back again. If you liked their other music you'll be sure to enjoy this lead single from their new album, Pocket Symphony.
LCD Soundsystem - North American Scum
YES! I straight-up love LCD, and am pretty pumped about their new record Sound of Silver. This track has been getting mixed reviews on the Internets. I think it's important to keep in mind that James Murphy is an ironic bastard. And he makes damn good music.
The Magic Numbers - This is a Song
This is the year for The Magic Numbers. Their first album was critically acclaimed, but didn't do a whole lot to crossover. When you listen to this first single from their upcoming sophomoric release, you can instantly recognize the genius. The songwriting is tighter than ever, and the playing is markedly better. Love that bass.
Air - Once Upon a Time
Our favorite French band is back again. If you liked their other music you'll be sure to enjoy this lead single from their new album, Pocket Symphony.
LCD Soundsystem - North American Scum
YES! I straight-up love LCD, and am pretty pumped about their new record Sound of Silver. This track has been getting mixed reviews on the Internets. I think it's important to keep in mind that James Murphy is an ironic bastard. And he makes damn good music.
Labels: music
When I was eleven years old, I watched Live Aid in awe. I really have many memories from the concerts, but perhaps the most vivid is of Queen performing Radio Ga Ga at Wembly Arena.
I have this image burned in my head of Freddie Mercury controlling the crowd as hundreds of thousand fans clapped their hands in unison. It was very powerful and even at that young age it thrilled me to see the power of music in action.
Thank goodness for You Tube:
I have this image burned in my head of Freddie Mercury controlling the crowd as hundreds of thousand fans clapped their hands in unison. It was very powerful and even at that young age it thrilled me to see the power of music in action.
Thank goodness for You Tube:
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaand mersh.
DJ Ranztron has done it again. I went and posted a new Justin Timberlake song that's been on repeat in my player and Ranz goes and identifies the sample!
Ladies and gentlemen, I give you "A New Day" by JC Davis. Go and marinate on them drums for a minute...
JC Davis - It's a New Day
Labels: music
Music for Robots has been straight killing it the last couple of days. This is my friend JPs (quite successful) MP3 blog. He and his boys post tracks temporarily on their site with insightful and often times hilarious reviews.
Not every track is a winner, but there's some quite good ones in the mix, and the occasional gem.
The last few posts have been off the hook.
Peep it and be sure to support the artists by buying their music.
http://music.for-robots.com/
As always - big ups to my friend Tamara on the site graphics and design.
Labels: music
So tomorrow is the big move and I'm feeling like I'm in good shape. That's not to say there's not tons to do tonight, but I don't think I'll be up to all hours.
I've been meaning to post this track from the new record for a few weeks now. It's been keeping me going through this move - such a good track! Falsetto lyrics, ridiculous 60s style backbeat, and that rap - that RAP!
Have a listen.
Damn Girl.mp3
Oh and for all those JT haters - shut it. He may be pop but he's damn good.
I've been meaning to post this track from the new record for a few weeks now. It's been keeping me going through this move - such a good track! Falsetto lyrics, ridiculous 60s style backbeat, and that rap - that RAP!
Have a listen.
Damn Girl.mp3
Oh and for all those JT haters - shut it. He may be pop but he's damn good.
Said the Gramophone is an amazing MP3 blog that I check regularly. This is the second year they are offering their 2006's Best Music Songs list - the best part is that the lists all have downloadable MP3s to accompany the critiques.
I swore by the 2005 list for the past 12 months so I am overjoyed that
they decided to make it a tradition.
Head on over and have a listen. They also offer two .zip files containing all 35 songs!
Labels: music
Damn You Canada - You've Done it Again!
0 Comments Published by Matt on Thursday, November 30, 2006 at 12:20 PM.Best posts from other blogs - 11/28/06
0 Comments Published by Matt on Tuesday, November 28, 2006 at 12:39 PM.
Here's the best stuff I've found (so far) today:
Song: from Music for Robots, The Gossip - Listen Up (mstrkrft remix)
Just straight up funky. For real. Press the lil' green button to listen.
Photo: from Gothamist, Light Waves in Brooklyn
"We've been admiring some gorgeous pictures of last night's start of the Prospect Park in Lights installation on Gothamist Contribute. We love this photograph by Atomische, showing ocean waters created out of lights. According to Prospect Park, "more than half a million light emitting diodes (LEDs) will be used to illuminate four gateways to the Park: Grand Army Plaza, which encompasses the historic Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch and the Bailey Fountain; Bartel-Pritchard Circle; Park Circle; and the Parkside and Ocean Avenue entrance to the Park."
Skate Deck: from turntablelab, Iron Mike
Song: from Music for Robots, The Gossip - Listen Up (mstrkrft remix)
Just straight up funky. For real. Press the lil' green button to listen.
Photo: from Gothamist, Light Waves in Brooklyn
"We've been admiring some gorgeous pictures of last night's start of the Prospect Park in Lights installation on Gothamist Contribute. We love this photograph by Atomische, showing ocean waters created out of lights. According to Prospect Park, "more than half a million light emitting diodes (LEDs) will be used to illuminate four gateways to the Park: Grand Army Plaza, which encompasses the historic Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch and the Bailey Fountain; Bartel-Pritchard Circle; Park Circle; and the Parkside and Ocean Avenue entrance to the Park."
Skate Deck: from turntablelab, Iron Mike
Standing on the shoulders of giants
1 Comments Published by Matt on Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at 9:07 AM.
There' s quite a bit of good electronic music coming out these days. Hot Chip are one band who have really been doing it for me (check their album "The Warning" - it's tight from start to finish). This renaissance of electro-pop kicked in a few years ago with The Postal Service and their unique brand of digital music coupled with emotional lyrics. It was right up my alley.
But is it unique?
I got to thinking about the bands I enjoyed when I was a young teenager. Bands like Joy Division, Erasure, Yaz, Depeche Mode. And New Order.
I had this VHS tape (remember those?) of New Order videos, and the one for their song The Perfect Kiss stands out in my mind. In the video they are performing the song live in the studio. What blew me away (and still does) is how organic their production of the song is even though it has such an Electronic sound to it. You'd think it was all done using synthesizers and computers but there is as much good ol' electric guitar in there as there is digital equipment.
Thank goodness for YouTube where we can all re-live our childhood memories. Watch this New Order video for The Perfect Kiss and then think of all the "ground-breaking" indie music you like now. Wild.
But is it unique?
I got to thinking about the bands I enjoyed when I was a young teenager. Bands like Joy Division, Erasure, Yaz, Depeche Mode. And New Order.
I had this VHS tape (remember those?) of New Order videos, and the one for their song The Perfect Kiss stands out in my mind. In the video they are performing the song live in the studio. What blew me away (and still does) is how organic their production of the song is even though it has such an Electronic sound to it. You'd think it was all done using synthesizers and computers but there is as much good ol' electric guitar in there as there is digital equipment.
Thank goodness for YouTube where we can all re-live our childhood memories. Watch this New Order video for The Perfect Kiss and then think of all the "ground-breaking" indie music you like now. Wild.
Two Great Tastes that Taste Great Together
0 Comments Published by Matt on Friday, November 17, 2006 at 12:52 PM.I just got to posting all my old songs in the music section.
I'm hoping to have some new tunage up there soon, but honestly I've been focusing more on photography these days. the transition to the new computer has also made it hard to record while the state of my lab is in flux.
Lab.
Labels: music
I'm adding another link to my sidebar today. It's the greatest online tool for finding music you want to hear and learning about new stuff you might enjoy. It's a music blog aggregator - basically they pull from all the MP3 Blog sites and show what tracks they are posting. You can also search so if you want the new 45 minute LCD Soundsystem track "45:33" - you can find it there.
The Hype Machine
Remember: If you like something always support artists by legally purchasing their music and going to see their shows!
The Hype Machine
Remember: If you like something always support artists by legally purchasing their music and going to see their shows!
Labels: music, rant, technology
Another hot tip from the Welsh. Dolly Parton doing Satirway! Yes - Stairway to Heaven!
The best I could do was track down the real player stream
The best I could do was track down the real player stream
Labels: music
On Sunday night I went to check out Amateur Female Jello Wrestling at Arlene's Grocery. Now that's real jello wrestling, not a band. It was surprisingly disappointing - the wrestling was all staged (I guess I'm a purist) and the crowd energy was non-existent.
All was not lost however. I met some of Amanda's friends who were in from Wales. We got to talking about music, and I was pointed in the direction of The Broken Family Band. The first link I clicked on was for the video below, "It's All Over".
I must be their target audience because it totally floored me - both the video and the song. A note from YouTube to explain the background a bit:
All was not lost however. I met some of Amanda's friends who were in from Wales. We got to talking about music, and I was pointed in the direction of The Broken Family Band. The first link I clicked on was for the video below, "It's All Over".
I must be their target audience because it totally floored me - both the video and the song. A note from YouTube to explain the background a bit:
The song is from the album BALLS by The Broken Family Band.The video is edited from a silent film made by Natalie Toumbas (http://www.ntdimages.co.uk) called Silent Treatment - she asked two strangers to sit in a room for an entire hour - all they had to do was look at each other and not speak while being filmed (They could not hear any music.)So in any event, here it is. It would be interesting to watch the full hour of footage from the silent film, but the images coupled with the song is breathtaking. Thanks for the tip Alex!