Get Your Hands On This Record

Finally picked up the Robert Plant and Alison Krause collaboration, RAISING SAND. There's been a lot of coverage and critical acclaim in the past few months, and after a few spins I can see why. What an album. Real interesting collection of songs, some driving and some super mellow but all very enjoyable. Plant's voice sounds incredible, he continues to be stellar in each solo project he's done since the mighty LZ.
Check notable gems "Killing the Blues" and "Rich Woman".

Top 10 Songs of 2007

So we're doing things a bit differently this year as I really don't think too many people are actually listening to full albums that much these days. We're back to a singles era, and that's not such a bad thing. Makes it a bit easier to get to the songs as well. Here's the year's best in my book:
"SILVER LINING" - Rilo Kiley. This is a cool band who I've heard about for years and finally come around on when this song came out. You will too - its fantastic.
"TWO" - Ryan Adams. They say in music "no junk, no soul", but since this notorious drunkard's gone sober he's put out some great work, including Easy Tiger this year on which this sweet tune was featured.
"YOU'RE A WOLF" - Sea Wolf. Don't know who these guys are or where I first heard this, but I'm now a fan. Great song.
"THE SUN IS SHINING DOWN" - JJ Grey & Mofro. I played this non-stop this summer, a great, throw-back bluesy tune about appreciation.
"GYPSY BIKER" - Bruce Springsteen. Magic was my favorite album this year, and though its full of outstanding songs this is the track that stands out the most. Not your typical Springsteen sounding song, it's a rocker that hits you over the head both musically and lyrically. Spend some time with this one, you'll love it.
"1234" - Feist. She's great, had fans for years and even the mainstream took notice months after her album release when this was selected for an Apple commercial.
"SOCIETY" - Eddie Vedder. From the Into The Wild soundtrack. Some don't get it, but I say Eddie rules.
"HOUSE OF CARDS" - Radiohead. The non-label release of In Rainbows was the story of the year in music and has overshadowed the tunes. This one is classic Radiohead and the best on the album: left-of-center, hypnotic, beautfiul.
"IN THE COLORS" - Ben Harper. He's still relevant. This is a soul-infused gem, play it at your next party, it's great.
"INTERVENTION" - Arcade Fire. This is arguably the only band that's really 'broken' in the last few years, and this song shows why.

You can buy this playlist on iTunes here, but note that Radiohead hasn't made their tracks available so I've made a runner-up replacement with the excellent "Young Folks" by Peter, Bjorn and John.

Neil Young - Chrome Dreams Tour

I was late to the party on Neil Young. Growing up I always thought the voice was odd, hard to let in, and the tunes never really seemed to make their mark on me. It wasn't until after the release of HARVEST MOON and the backdrop of college that I finally began to see the light, and when I finally saw him live with Crazy Horse around 2003's Greendale tour I had fully drank the kool-aid. From there its been a deep-dive of appreciation and wonder combing through what this 40-year recording career has to offer.
I now own almost every album, dozens of bootlegs, read SHAKEY, and have seen 5 or 6 shows. Last evenings half-acoustic/half-electric set at this new NYC venue left me speechless. The beauty of the slow tunes, the power of the fast ones, I couldn't think of a better show to close out this year with.

Led Zeppelin at O2 - Return of the Gods

So it finally happened last night in London, and from the looks of this clip it doesn't look like they've lost any luster. Jimmy still looks commanding and listen to Plant WAIL some of the vocals fills here. Fans can only hope tour dates ensue and it's hard to understand why they wouldn't want to take a victory lap around the world to celebrate their greatness and give people the chance to bear witness to 3/4ths of arguably the greatest rock-n-roll band that ever was. I, along with millions of others, will be keeping close tabs on the developments and will figure next summer's vacation plans around any US appearances that may be announced.

Also, in all this excitement, isnt it interesting to note how this continues to highlight the sad state of affairs in the current musical landscape, as the most exciting news in music continues to be the reunions of bands from long ago?

Skateaway

Do you know this tune? My favorite Dire Straits track, no question, and I love these guys who've created so many hits. This one's all about feel, the sounds, that guitar sound. How does one create that, make it so spacey, haunting, cool? Knopfler is an island, belongs in any discussion of the greatest ever, and people who get it know this to be true. A different kind of player, more pull than push. Check out the amazing end section here, starting at around 5:00 through the end. This great video has 80's written all over it, so be sure to buy the album and give it a spin next time your driving, partying or just crashed out at home and want to be taken away...

Eminence Front

Eminence –noun
1. high station, rank, or repute: philosophers of eminence.

come to think of it, I don't think its a put-on at all.

The Boss Still Rules

Is there a more peak concert experience than Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band live in New Jersey? Last night at the Meadowlands suggests not. Don't know if you've picked up your copy of MAGIC but you should. Like a fine wine the Boss just gets better with age. It only took one spin of Radio Nowhere to recognize it was yet another hit, but with some time and seeing the live show the rest of the album has revealed some other absolute gems.

If this tour comes to your town I suggest you get there. We're currently drawing to an end of the rock icon era but still have a few in our midst. I wonder how he still does it, the incredible songs that continue to pour out and the unlimited energy up there on stage. Seeing this show made me thankful and happy to be alive - it was just that powerful. The grown men in tears behind me at the end of Born To Run know what I'm talking about. Hope you find tickets.

setlist

Rilo Kiley

Sometimes the buzz is actually warranted. Can't miss noticing mention of Rilo Kiley if you've read any music publication over the past few weeks. Gave the album a couple spins and yeah, it works. It's about the feel, the groove, and they do it well. Check out "Silver Lining", it launches from the attached link to their website.

Tunes of the Week

"See The World" - Gomez get it

"Break The Night With Color" - Richard Aschcroft get it

"Right Moves" - Josh Ritter get it

Happy Birthday Van

Happy Birthday today to the Irish Elvis.
I remember seeing Van the Man at Irving Plaza in 2004. Had to wait outside for over an hour but once inside I watched the 5-foot legend belt out hit after hit from 20 feet away. A truly original voice, incredible writer and classic artist that my generation hi-jacked from our parents and whose timeless music will continue to enrich those who find it.

The New Bruce Single

"I was spinnin' 'round a dead dial
Just another lost number in a file
Dancin' down a dark hole
Just searchin' for a world with some soul"

The new Springsteen single was released today, not only to radio but as a free download.

wow does this track KICK ASS.

Tunes of the Week

some live cuts spinning this week:

"Save Me" - Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds get it

"Change The Locks" - Lucinda Williams get it

"Wondering" - Neil Young & Crazy Horse get it

Bruce and Neil - 2 New Albums in October

Been a pretty unexciting year in terms of musical output but looks like that's changing come October:




Bruce Springsteen's "MAGIC" set for October 2 release

Neil Young polishes "Chrome Dreams" for October

Dylanesque

Have you heard about this project of Bob Dylan covers by BryanFerry, the former ROXY MUSIC frontman?
Strong purchase recommendation here. You'll find beautifully rendered versions of Dylan classics that explore different directions. The list of people who've tried to take a pass at Dylan's legacy is a long one, but in covers I've heard few have ever added something new as Ferry's done here. Also important to keep in mind, this is a guy who once stole Mick Jagger's girlfriend so you know he plays to win.

Among the best: Knockin On Heaven's Door and Positively 4th Street. Pick this up and enjoy, and once you're hooked check out FRANTIC, another album of covers he did back in 2002. It's terrific.

Tunes of the Week

"Indifference" Pearl Jam get it

"Soul Singing" The Black Crowes get it

"Tiger Lily" Luna get it

Crossroads Festival

You need to check these clips out. Looks like they had a big ol' jam fest out in Chicago a few weeks ago, and the big guns came and delivered.
Highlights you shouldn't miss are:

* Jeff Beck "Angel" - some say he's the greatest ever, hard to argue but more importantly WHO is this teenage girl playing bass with him?
* Steve Winwood "Cant Find My Way Home" - I think I've streamed this over 20x. Can't say enough about Winwood so I won't try, but watching him masters both the keys and the guitar leaves you in awe. Having EC backing you up is not a bad thing either, and Clapton shows he still rules.
* Eric Clapton "Got to Get Better.." and "Cocaine" - this is great live music. Throwing Derek Trucks into the mix put these performances over the top, making you wish you were there to see it in person.

Tunes of the Week

Here's what's been coming out of the speakers this week:

"Atlantic City"-The Band get it

"My Moon Man"-Feist get it

"We Can Be Strong"-Willy Mason get it

"Waste"-Phish get it

"He's Gone"-Grateful Dead get it

Happy Birthday Jerry

The Captain would have been 65 today.
What a force, so much music in him that still endures today. First started taking his music seriously in 1992, was able to see a bunch of shows in the tail-end period, and can truly say those live musical experiences will never be repeated.

One of the true, iconic greats. I'm sure he's still playing somewhere.

Feist

She's good. Been hearing the name for weeks maybe months now and thought it was a new movie or video game. Finaly put it together this week after hearing on FUV and checking out her website. Fresh, fun, good music for summer.

Barbaric!

If you're following the Michael Vick case you can tell this this dude is toast; just can't see him overcoming this one even if he isn't convicted.
That said, I'm starting to think the most interesting part of the story is this fine lawmaker form West Virginia who ripped Vick on the Senate floor. Seriously, is this guy for real???

Summertime Thing

Heard this outstanding song by a guy named Chuck Prophet earlier this week.
If you want to hear something that sounds like you're riding in the backseat of a convertible on the sunshine-drenched PCH, dial this song up immediately. A sweet capture of the feel of summer which unfortunately is already half-way over.

Unfortunately Chuck's website kinda blows, no audio samples there (don't really get this). However you can get a free full-length stream from Rhapsody, or just buy on iTunes.

Check it out, you won't be disappointed.

Bon Scott

Read that today would have been Bon Scott's 60th birthday.

Think its beyond safe to say we'll never see another one quite like him.

Sweet Trick to Upload YouTube Video to Your iPod

This is pretty cool - enables you to watch the hundreds of YouTube clips your buddies email you all day on your iPod. Watch how to do it here.

Jack White and Pete Townsend

What's the coolest thing about being a musician? Hanging with your heroes of course.

Picked up the White Stripes excellent new album ICKY THUMP, saw them at Irving Plaza last week and have been on a big kick. While surfing YouTube for clips however I came across this which looks like it was from the Raconteurs tour last year, and is defintiely one of the coolest things I've seen in a while.

Peter, Bjorn & John

Great tune here. The hook is instant, throw it on at your next party and you'll see. Looks like these guys are Swedes which is A-OK in my book too.

Wilson Pickett and Duane Allman

iPod shuffling this morning, on came the incredible cover of "Hey Jude" by Wilson Pickett featuring Duane Allman on guitar. Had to play this a few more times and then found this sweet video montage. Apparently this was the song that Eric Clapton heard which made him immediately seek out Duane, who was only 22 at the time this track was recorded in 1969. We all know what happened next.

Google RocknRoll Street Tour

Pretty cool. Didn't know the Physical Graffiti building was in my hood.

It Was 40 Years Ago Today...

SGT PEPPER. Best album ever? The debate endures, and so do the tunes.

Sean Penn on Real Time

Who knew Jeff Spicoli was such a thinker?? Caught the excellent Real Time with Bill Maher the other night on HBO and this episode blew me away, specifically the intellectual prowess of Mr. Penn. I understand he's become quite the activist in recent years and watching him on this show I was extremely impressed at his reasoning and balls. I'm all for people who have the courage to speak out, we need more of it.
Check out this episode, and all Real Time editions for that matter, on HBO On-Demand.

JJ Grey and Mofro

FINALLY: Well here we are folks, Memorial Day weekend 2007, and it took this long for me to find the first truly incredible album of the year. JJ Grey and Mofro, self-described as "front-porch soul", flew under my radar thus far but over this week I'd heard some songs from their current album Country Ghetto and am loving what I'm hearing. I think "The Sun Is Shining Down" could be one of the best things I've heard in a while, and there's many other gems here including the self-titled track and the solemnly grooved "Goodbye".
Upon review it seems these guys have been around for a while and are getting props from bigs such as the Allman Brothers who have them opening some of their summer tour.
Check out a sample and do yourself a favor: buy this record.

John Henry Bonham

Was there anyone more ferocious than JB? Led Zepp could never recover from his loss, and this gem shows reinforces that. Always had high respect for how they honored their founding brother and obviously left piles of cash on the table when they decided that they could not go on after he passed away.
I think of the recent attrocities The Doors and INXS where both bands tried to replace their irreplaceable frontmen, both arguably rock legends, so they could go on the road and tour. Especially that hideous INXS reality show. Sad, and doesn't have seemed to have worked either.

Never Seen Star Wars

What a douche.

It's Only Love

Sometimes you randomly come across songs that you've totally forgotten about and maybe never even liked in the first place, but when you hear them again and in a new way you have to admit that they kinda kick ass. I love when that happens.

Cool Online Ad

pretty sweet.

Brightback Morning Light

Got hipped to these guys earlier today, although their album came out almost a year ago. It's tough out there people, trying to break through the clutter. No way radio would touch this, got to rely on fans and word-of-mouth.
Sweet tune called "Everybody Daylight": Grab it for free by clicking the "First MP3" tab, can either stream or right-click to save.

Philosophers and Plowmen

I saw that classic Sci-Fi rockers RUSH will hit the road this summer, and thought back to trying to get into one of their shows at Radio City Music Hall back in 2003. While standing outside looking for a ticket, I never saw so many people who as a buddy described "looked like they crawled out of their parents basement" to hit the show.

It's about your fanbase, nothing else really matters.

I'll try again to see this power 3-piece and hopefully fare better than last time. I might not be their most rabid fan per se but how can you not appreciate some of their classic cuts, such as this.

Best Album Openers Ever

Good topic, always stirs it up. Sure you're gonna get alot of chiming in for "Welcome To The Jungle" from GnR's APPETITE FOR DESTRUCTION and "Smells Like Teen Spirit" from Nirvana's classic NEVERMIND, and while this topic certianly shouldn't be limited to 90's-era releases (I mean really, every single Led Zeppelin album could apply here, and that opening cut on The Rolling Stones BEGGARS BANQUET doesn't sound too bad) but as I was walking today with the ipod I found myself revisiting the Smashing Pumpkins' excellent SIMEASE DREAM, and what's needs to be in this conversation is the outstanding "Cherub Rock".
A few words come to mind on this one: ferocious, assaulting, killer. It's like the guitars and drums are in a deadlocked competition for who can outplay each other, great changes and totally left-field soloing. Songs shold be like this one more often.

Got My New Shoes On

Lately it seems that I'm continually turning to my old and familiar music catalog as I just haven't seemed to hear anything new and good in a long while. However I came across this Paolo Nutini in the last week and have to say it's kinda working for me.
The kid is actually Scottish (?) and yeah this isnt necessarily groundbreaking, but at the end of the day its about a great hook and feel, and on a beautiful sunny day in NYC like this his "New Shoes" is kicking things up a notch. Splendido canzone, mon amici.