All of these emotions are pouring outta me

It has been brought to my attention that my social persona may conflict with my inner self, the core that is me. Ever since I've started this blog, I've befriended many online friends. People who only know me through Blogger or Twitter or Facebook, etc. And on some occasions, I come into contact with these new friends. But when they meet me, they have this idea in their head of what I'm like, and I'm usually disappointed when they tell me their first impressions.

It usually goes something like this: "I thought you were this crazy party animal who lives only to dance at the clubs." Something about my online image gives people this idea that I'm superficial, insensitive, self-centered or cold...or all of the above. That's buggin' me out.

There's more to me than meets the eye.

I chose this track to relate to this moment I'm having right now. Kid Cudi is OK, nothing brilliant or groundbreaking here. But I can appreciate what he's trying to express through this song. There's depth there, and it just feels honest and raw.

So just like he says, "I've got some issues that nobody can see, and all of these emotions are pouring out of me." Get to know me before you judge me, folks.



Kid Cudi - Soundtrack 2 My Life

-

Give your eyes my view for a second

I feel so out of the loop. It's been a good five or so years since Zoot Woman has come out with an album. And they finally debut their third album, and I drop the ball. It's been out for months, and I just found out because my pal Tristan gave me a heads up. I've been anxiously waiting, and I snoozed.

Anyhow, this entire album is phenomenal, and I expected nothing less based on their first two albums. I love the way they're able to marry the 80s new wave sound with newer synth-electro beats, without sounding too cheesy. They have a very distinct sound, one that is emotional yet upbeat. Each of their tracks puts me in a very specific state of mind. That's what I love about them. They have a song for each of my feelings.

Here are four of my favorites off their most recent album, Things Are What They Used To Be. My personal favorite is "Saturation." The beat is infectious, and the lyrics are eloquently expressive. I also love the way it starts off soft and slow, then becomes hard-hitting and spirited. As he tells his story, I imagine a man observing this woman, as he falls in love at first sight. Or so he thinks. He becomes infatuated with her presence and will do anything for her, knowing he's not good enough. But he follows her anyway, because unrequited love is much more satisfying than no love at all.



Zoot Woman - Saturation


Zoot Woman - Blue Sea


Zoot Woman - Just A Friend Of Mine


Zoot Woman - We Won't Break

-

The Beta Theta

I love those nights that are unplanned. The nights that begin with me laying in bed, reading a book, minding my own business. And next thing I know, I'm walking out of my apartment with my partner in crime, props in our hands. One thing leads to another, and I end the night dancing around a bar wearing a wild animal mask.

It seems those spontaneous nights always lead to something great. A new musical discovery, a new friendship, a new favorite cocktail...whatever.

In this case, it may be all three.

But I'm going to focus on the musical discovery today. I think I owe a large portion of our shenanigans last night to the man responsible for the music at Bar Deville. I was definitely that annoying chick, walking up to the DJ booth every five minutes asking the name of each song. Thankfully, The Beta Theta was awfully nice to me and gave me the title of each desired track.

I'm so happy there are bars in Chicago that play this kind of music (I'm not even going to attempt classifying it...BUT if I had to I guess it was a mixture of punk, electro and funk). My pals and I danced the night away, terrifying strangers in every direction I'm sure. I mean, a friendly panda and spastic giraffe never hurt anybody!

Anyhow, thank you Beta Theta for hooking it up with the tracks. And if you like what you hear, pals, you can find him on Myspace at http://www.myspace.com/thebetatheta. For those of you Chicagoans, he'll be DJing at The Burlington Bar in Logan Square tomorrow and at Rodan in Wicker Park on Sunday.


A Touch of Class - Streetdub


The Units - High Pressure Days


The Glimmers - Let's Get Physical

-

Finally I meet you

So this blog is approaching its one year in existence, and as I look back at the past few weeks I realize that I definitely veered off my intended path. I look at my first few posts and remember how much I focused on house, pure house music. And it's funny I make this realization today, because as I was driving this morning, "Finally" by Kings of Tomorrow started playing in my ride. And there is no house track that is more true. Everything about this track is intentional and powerful.

When I listen to her words, I think of falling in love. I think of all the obstacles I've overcome. I think of saying goodbye to the past and hello to the future. I think of how much better it feels to embrace the sour times because they make the sweet taste that much sweeter.

My favorite lyrics: "I had a dream my trip would end up at you, and now I know paradise."

So it's only fitting that my blog takes another direction sometimes; my life does too. But I always return to what I know to be true and what makes me feel alive.

Cheers, web friends! I introduce (or reintroduce) you to what may be one of the greatest house tracks produced.


Kings of Tomorrow - Finally

-

Something good is gonna happen

Well, as a matter of fact, a few good somethings already happened today. I breezed to work through a snow storm in less than 30 minutes. The guy at Starbucks gave me my vanilla latte for free. And here's the kicker: I text messaged the only radio station I like, 93.1 XRT, and won tickets to their holiday concert this Friday. All this good fortune before 9 a.m.

Now it's the afternoon, my day has been pretty mediocre, but I can't seem to forget the streak that occurred this morning. I'm going to ride this wave for as long as I can. I have a good feeling about the near future. I'm not sure where I'm going with this, and not knowing is what makes me excited.

Anyhow, I thought these tracks were quite fitting for this mood, this state of happiness and anticipation.


Utah Saints - Something Good


Milosh - Something Good

You're not dead, you're sleeping

I've loved and I've lost. Who hasn't? But one important lesson I've learned is that it is much more painful to hold on than it is to accept the loss and move forward. However, every once in a while it feels so good to revisit that love and remember it for what it was.

This particular song, "Signs" by Bloc Party, has the ability to make me smile and cry simultaneously. It can hurt so much to think about what's missing in my life, but I remember how lucky I am to have felt that closeness to another human being. And it never ceases to amaze me the traces these people have left behind. I see signs all the time.

Like most of my friends, you may not be a fan of Bloc Party. But this track is like no other. It's not obnoxious, it's emotional. It may be one of the most heartwarming tracks I've listened to in a long time. I urge you to watch and listen to the live version above before you actually download the track. It might give you a whole new perspective on the band, the music, and that special love.

Bloc Party - Signs

-

I can taste opportunity near

How fitting.

How fitting that I chose to download the new Zero 7 album today. How fitting that I'm going to the Zero 7 show this Friday. How fitting that this song entered my life at the most appropriate time.

Every once in a while, I discover a song that turns my world upside down. A song that provides me with this whole new transcendent experience. It somehow fits. If my life were a book, this song would be the chapter you forgot to read.

"Pop Art Blue" has been on repeat since I first heard it a couple of hours ago. Zero 7 took the words I couldn't say, the picture I couldn't paint, and created this beautiful work of art.

I was a bit skeptical about this new album, Yeah Ghost, by Zero 7. But then the fifth track played, and I'm able to say those 4 minutes and 23 seconds are worth the entire album. So I'll definitely be at their show this Friday at The Metro. If you're in Chicago, check it out. Come baked.

Zero 7 - Pop Art Blue

What's so great about a buckeye?!

It's that time of year. Holiday season. Everyone is freaking out about how they're going to celebrate the New Year. This whole ritual pretty much disgusts me. New Year's Eve is just another day, folks. I mean, c'mon, what are we really celebrating anyway? Great, we made it to another year alive. Big deal. Now I must say, this is a completely new revelation to me. I used to be one of "them." But for some reason this year, I'm over it. Priorities have changed. I urge you to give it some thought as well.

Anyway, on that note, I've recently discovered my favorite (current) band is playing a show on New Year's Eve in Chicago at The Double Door. I missed their last two Chicago shows because I was out of town, but there's no way I'm missing them this time. New Year's Eve has become just another day to me, and I figure going to an Electric Six concert is something I'd do anyway.

I've included some of my favorite tracks below (listed by album), concentrating mostly on songs off their most recent album Kill, which I'm sure they'll be promoting. I neglected to include anything off their Flashy album; it was a bust.

Do me a favor, though. Don't listen to these tracks just once and write them off. I pretty much hated Electric Six the first time I gave them a listen. But I listened again and again, and they grew on me. So much that they're now one of my absolute favorites. Check 'em out, and ring in the New Year with me! C'mon...the whole hotel and dance club package thing is way overrated and not worth the money. You know I'm right!

P.S. Pay close attention to the track "Escape From Ohio." I couldn't have put it any better myself. The entire track is about how much Ohio sucks. Here are some lyrics: "Lord, please send some mercy down to me, fifty miles south of Bowling Green. This will clearly never be my scene. Why does every city start with C?" Oh, and they get political on us too: "They say that what you give is what you're gonna get. It's no wonder everything's gone to sh*t. Because they've given us John Boehner, you better believe they've given us Jean Schmidt!" Ha! And my absolute favorite line: "What's so great about a buckeye?"


Kill


Electric Six - Escape From Ohio


Electric Six - Steal Your Bones


Electric Six - I Belong In A Factory


Electric Six - Rubbin' Me The Wrong Way


Señor Smoke


Electric Six - Devil Nights


Electric Six - Future Is In The Future


Electric Six - Vibrator


Fire


Electric Six - I'm The Bomb


Electric Six - Dance Commander


Electric Six - Danger! High Voltage



I Shall Exterminate Everything That Restricts Me From Being Master


Electric Six - White Train


Electric Six - Lucifer Airlines


Electric Six - Down At McDonnelzz


Switzerland


Electric Six - Infected Girls


Electric Six - Rubber Rocket


Electric Six - Pulling The Plug On The Party

-

Steady walking but bound to trip

I was introduced to The XX a few weeks ago, and I must say I don't think I have ever been so moved. The XX is a quartet out of London, and they can't be much more than 20 years of age. That's what impresses me the most about these artists. They have so much soul, and the dynamic between the male and female vocals is so intense and beautiful.

I wrote not too long ago about fall being the time for lovers. It's finally getting chilly out there, folks. And I can't imagine a better soundtrack for the start of a new relationship. I listen to these songs, and I get lost in my daydreams. They capture so many emotions, no words need to be said. Just hit play, and let your hands do the talking.

My personal favorite: "Night Time." Now that is some serious baby-making music right there.

*If you're in the Chicago area, you might want to check these guys out at Bottom Lounge on Dec. 1. Unfortunately, I snoozed and didn't purchase tickets in time. Sold out already! However, if you're one of my well-connected friends and you have an in, please hook me up.*



The XX - Night Time


The XX - Crystalised


The XX - Islands


The XX - Stars

Everyday is Halloween

As I was walking out the door this morning, my roommate said to me, "Hey cuz, have fun at the 80s dance party." I looked at my reflection in the glass, and sure enough, I definitely resembled Pat Benatar... or perhaps Joan Jett. Either way, it was totally unintentional on my part.

Sure, I may look like I'm stuck in the "Love Is A Battlefield" video, and so what? Before there was Lady Gaga there was Debbie Harry; it's a cycle that will continue into future generations. I dig the music and the fashion of that ridiculous decade. It's inspiring. And my style probably reflects that. For me, "everyday is Halloween." (The lyrics to that Ministry track pretty much explain everything.)

So hell yea, I'm at an 80s dance party... In my cubicle, blasting these tracks through my headphones. Join me?


Ministry - Everyday Is Halloween


Echo & The Bunnymen - Lips Like Sugar


Blondie - Tide Is High


Pet Shop Boys - What Have I Done To Deserve This?


Talk Talk - It's My Life


The Pretenders - Kid


The Smiths - Bigmouth Strikes Again


Prince - Controversy


Berlin - The Metro


Dramarama - Anything, Anything


ABC - The Look Of Love


The Police - Message In A Bottle


The Cure - Never Enough

-

Life danced right out of me

I cannot even remember the last time I wrote a blog entry on a Monday. The only time I've ever been motivated to write on a Monday is when I have a wicked weekend. And finally! My head is still bobbing, my hips are still swaying, my toes are still tapping. I'm on a high.

I was fortunate to spend most of my weekend with a new friend who has just as diverse a music collection as my own. Since I've already shared my music library with him, he decided to return the favor and introduce me to something new. It's trippy how you pick up on others' musical preferences; it's so rewarding when they actually like what you recommend. I wonder what it was about me that gave him the notion that I would like Hercules And Love Affair. I'm glad he thought of me, though. When I walk into a room, I want "Athene" to play in the background. And I want to dance until I can no longer feel my legs.

I'm sitting here right now, listening to "Time Will," and in my mind I'm reliving the brilliant moments I shared with friends these past three days. There's nothing else I would rather listen to. Something about that voice and that funk... it captures sentiments I thought were lost.

The thing I love about Hercules And Love Affair is that they transcend musical boundaries. It's house, it's jazz, it's synth-pop, it's soul. I could hear these songs mixed at a dance club or performed live at a loungy piano bar. And that's something I can definitely appreciate. Just like I don't like to classify music, I don't like to be classified myself. If I were a song, I'd be...


Hercules And Love Affair - Athene
Hercules And Love Affair - Time Will
Hercules And Love Affair - Raise Me Up
Hercules And Love Affair - Blind

-

A phoenix rising

I like to pride myself in the fact that I condemn all things "pop" for their damage to modern society. My friends call me a hater; it is what it is. So I don't normally attend any radio-sponsored concerts and events, but this one is an exception. Well, especially because it's an XRT show—not your typical pop radio.

My cousin Alexa discovered XRT's Holiday Concert is taking place on her birthday, December 11. The Flaming Lips, Phoenix and Pete Yorn will be performing. We're buying our tickets today, but you know I spent all day yesterday previewing tracks by each of these artists.

Phoenix has always been one of my favorites, since the first time I heard "If I Ever Feel Better." That song has the power to pick me up when I'm down every time. As a matter of fact, I played it this morning and it pretty much hit the nail on the head on my current state of mind. It's amazing how a song can do that. Do yourself a favor, and Google the lyrics. You'll thank me.

I have also added a few new favorites to the list, after yesterday's download frenzy. "Love Like A Sunset" is magical. You have to listen to it the whole way through to appreciate it. If you're an impatient type, go ahead and fast forward to the 2:45 mark; if that still doesn't work, go ahead to the 3:45 mark. That's when it drops! Now that's some snarlin' music!

As for the other XRT performers: The Flaming Lips are insanely trippy, and I had no idea I could get this into them. Up until yesterday, I was totally unaware that they have been around since the early '80s. It's definitely the older, grittier sound I like. And I'm surprised I am digging Pete Yorn as much as I am right now. I would typically label his style as a bit too sappy for me, but there's something about it. He has such a beautiful voice.

So check out the tracks, and if you like what you hear, come celebrate with me!

Phoenix - If I Ever Feel Better
Phoenix - Love Like A Sunset
Phoenix - 1901
Phoenix - Too Young

The Flaming Lips - Okay I'll Admit That I Really Don't Understand
The Flaming Lips - The Strange Design of Conscience
The Flaming Lips - Mountain Side

Pete Yorn - Lose You
Pete Yorn - Splendid Isolation

-

You love her, she loves him

It's a pretty simple equation. And it happens all the time. Why do we always want what we can't have? Something about the impossible that makes us even more hungry for that which is unrequited.

"Cause maybe you want him. Like you want me. Only truly." Ouch.

"It hurts when you rule me. And the whole world can see through me." Damn.

I don't have much to say today. This track is sick, and it possesses so much power, passion and intensity. The remix is heavy. The more I listen to it, the more it stings. Don't worry, it's a good sting.


The American Analog Set - The Green Green Grass


The American Analog Set - The Green Green Grass (Telefon Tel Aviv Remix)

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Happy Halloween!

This may just be my favorite holiday. I get to put on a costume and raise hell all over the streets of Chicago. I like to cause trouble, and this is the day that it is slightly acceptable. I'll be out and about dressed in something hilarious and crashing parties this weekend. But I had to make sure I had a proper soundtrack for my shenanigans. If you're hosting a party or just want to blast some music on your way out, here are some tracks that'll surely get you into the spooky spirit! Some are heavy, some are down-tempo... but they've all got that creep factor.

Morcheeba - Trigger Hippie

Joy Division - Dead Souls

Ministry - So What

Massive Attack - Man Next Door

Skinny Puppy - Assimilate

Type O Negative - Black No. 1

Tricky - Crazy Claws

Front Line Assembly - Millennium

The Cure - Burn

Killing Joke - Seeing Red

Amon Tobin - At The End Of The Day

Crystal Stilts - Converging In The Quiet

-

Dripping with alchemy

I am kicking myself in the booty right now. I always reprimand my friends for not giving bands a chance. I say, "You only heard ONE song! How can you possibly already know you don't like them?" And today, I discovered I am guilty of doing the exact same thing.

I heard a few Yeah Yeah Yeahs' tracks a while back and just couldn't get into them. Then they performed at Lollapalooza this year. Once again, I had no interest in catching their set.

Well, my pal Shobi sent me a link to the video for "Heads Will Roll" this morning, and I've had this track on repeat ever since. It's so sinister and intoxicating. In my last post, I talked about how I just want to walk around and snarl. This right here is the ultimate snarling track. Just listen to the lyrics.

Gangstaaaaa...

Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Heads Will Roll

-

Snap out of it!

Today I am a polar bear.

Since my last post, I have done a lot of thinking, reflecting, meditating, etc. And just like that, I've snapped out of it. It's Friday. I'm alive. You're alive. Let's dance.

I hope you will add these tracks to your weekend playlist as you destroy public property, cuss at pedestrians, pump your fist and snarl. Yes, that's the theme today. When I hear each of these tracks, I can't help but snarl and make shifty eyes. If you can find me over the next 48 hours, that's how you'll find me — swaying uncontrollably with a nonsensical mean mug on my face. I got no time for BS!


Sebastien Tellier - Kilometer (Aeroplane Italo 84 Mix)
Revolte - Ironical Sexism (Grum Remix)
T-Rek - Into The Desert Blue
Bassnectar - Bursting
The XX - Crystalised
Death From Above 1979 - Black History Month (Alan Braxe & Fred Falke Remix)

-

Healing comes so painfully

I'm not feeling so well today, and I haven't felt well in a few days. I'm not going to get into the details of what's bringing me down. I think I'll keep this one to myself. I can be over dramatic sometimes, this I know. But this time, I'm trying really hard to remain positive. It's hard. It's so hard to not expect the worst.

I feel damaged. Broken.

I'm hoping this situation is reparable. I have faith this too shall pass, and I'll look back at this as a learning lesson, a small obstacle in this journey we call life.

Happy, upbeat music does nothing for me when I'm feeling like this. As a matter of fact, it only makes me angrier. The only way I know how to work through times like these is through music that intensifies these already depressing emotions. You can call it self-loathing; I call it therapy.

These five tracks have been on repeat for the past 24 hours, and they'll continue to be on repeat until things get better.

Plumb - Damaged
Pink - Sober
A Perfect Circle - 3 Libras
Modest Mouse - Bukowski
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Desecration Smile

-

Hometown glory

I love Chicago. I talk a lot about moving to another city, another state, even another country. And sure, one day, that is absolutely something I would love to experience. But nothing will ever compare to the feelings that take over my mind and body as I walk through the streets of Chicago. There is a certain comfort – about knowing every crack in the sidewalk, knowing where I can find the perfect drink to heal my open wounds, knowing the perfect place to sit and gaze at the skyline.

I have no problem wandering the city streets totally by myself. As a matter of fact, I sometimes prefer it. I know I'll run into someone I know, or better yet, I'll just strike up a conversation with a complete stranger. Sometimes I just like to walk alone and absorb and take in the views, the noise, the chaos, the peace, etc.

One day, I may leave you Chicago. But I'll always come back. And I'll never forget the experiences and the friendships that were born here. You are the "wonders of my world." You're the gravity that keeps me grounded. Not too many people take the time to remember all the connections they've made, and all the interactions with people that have shaped who they have become. I'll never forget.

I listen to this song, and all I can think of is my first love. Maybe you'll feel the same way.


Adele - Hometown Glory
Adele - Hometown Glory (High Contrast Remix)

-

I crush on Brits and it's not healthy

It's amazing how a British accent can make anything sound charming. My pal brought this to my attention last week, and I heard this song a few days ago. Sure enough, this noise confirmed my pal's theory.

If this chick didn't have that fake British accent, this would be the biggest pile of crap I have ever heard. The lyrics are awful, and the music was probably made with a cheap Casio synthesizer. I mean, there's something about white brauds attempting to rap that makes me want to vomit. I don't know much about Uffie, and to be honest with you, I don't care to look much more into it. I'm content with this being my little guilty pleasure for the week, and anything more will ruin it for me. I'm sure of it.

Now you can listen, bob your head, and love/hate it with me. Don't judge me.

Uffie - Pop The Glock (Mirwais Pop Remix)

-

The soundtrack to my life

Finally! The day has arrived when I can post one of the absolute greatest instrumental tracks I have ever heard in my life. It took me long enough to find this track in mp3 format; otherwise, I would have posted this day one of Jazzy's Joynt.

The first time you listen to this song, you must be in a comfortable position and you must be able to blast the volume to full capacity. Also, no interruptions allowed. This track must be played from beginning to end. If you're into the whole self-medication thing, go ahead and get a little lifted. It might illuminate the experience. Press play, and enjoy the ride.

This track is most definitely a work of art. The progression, the breaks, the instrumental solos... they take me on a journey. I've already written in a previous post how there are certain songs that create movies in my mind. And if my life was a movie, this song would absolutely be on the soundtrack. It would play at the turning point of the movie, when something that you didn't expect occurs. Something twisted. I fall in love, I almost die, I discover something cryptic about my past. Dig?

Let me know what you think.

Little People - Basique


-

White lies @ The Metro Tonight!

Although I hyped up the music festival days, weeks and months in advance, I never actually wrote a post-Lollapalooza entry. But today, the opportunity presented itself when I was reminded that White Lies will be performing at The Metro in Chicago this evening.

Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the concert, but I wanted to give you rock fans out there a heads up in case you were looking for something to get into tonight.

Once the official lineup for Lollapalooza 2009 was announced, I immediately started downloading tracks from each artist. There were so many, and tons that I never heard before. So I wanted to make sure I didn't miss anything I would potentially enjoy. I listened to "Farewell to the Fairground" by White Lies during my download frenzy, and I knew this was a performance I had to witness.

I am not a fan of comparing bands to other bands, but if I HAD to define White Lies by other bands' influences, I'd have to say they sound like a mixture of Depeche Mode and The Killers. (Although they're often compared to Joy Division. That must have something to do with the darker lyrics.) I gave this same description to a couple of my friends who joined me in watching the White Lies set, and they agreed. And now they're fans too.

What a way to start my three-day music overdose! White Lies was the first set I caught on that Friday afternoon. It had just begun raining, and I was not expecting there to be much of a turnout. I was wrong. And the crowd was definitely feeling the music and the vibe. As a matter of fact, I think the rain was a blessing. It made the performance feel more real and intense; it made the experience that much more exciting. White Lies killed each and every song. And if you weren't able to attend Lollapalooza, I strongly urge you to check these guys out. Tonight, they'll be at The Metro in Chicago.

White Lies - Farewell to the Fairground
White Lies - E.S.T.
White Lies - Death

Another day with you

I travel a lot. I meet a lot of people. These people come, and they go. But every once in a while, I meet someone that makes me want to desperately miss that flight back home so I can spend just one more day getting to know this new friend. Sometimes I meet someone that I can't get out of my brain once I return. I wonder if any of these people think about me. I wonder if our paths will ever cross again. Only time will tell...

I came across this track last week as I was searching for Fred Falke remixes. I liked it immediately, but I couldn't really understand the lyrics. So when I looked them up, I liked the song even more. Read the lyrics as you listen, and enjoy!


Example - Watch The Sun Come Up (Fred Falke Remix)


Hey, good morning
Hey, it's calling
Hey, good morning
Watch the sun come up
It's calling
I want another day with you

How can I explain it scratchin' my brain
How can 10 hours feel like 10 years?
I cry 10 men's tears as it disappears
With the passionate atmosphere
Took your glove as a souvenir
Left the other on the pillow as I stroked your ear
One last breathe of your hair, stared for a second
Then the doorway beckoned
I'm a lover not a fighter
So I didn't fight the fact that I more than liked ya
Didn't matter we were under influence
Made sense this was more than lust
I don't own you, you don't own me
One night only, if only
I could take you back and just show you off
But I guess if I did that, the magic is lost

Hey, good morning
Watch the sun come up
It's calling
I want another day with you

You and that red dress - What a pairing
I kept staring, you couldn't have said less
Can't let my head rest, thinking about ya,
Really wanna look into your catwoman eyes
Turn back time, cause it flies by
You know, them Marty mcfly vibes
See, I can picture the bright lights
Sights and night skies and boats go by
I don't know why it happened so fast
When I tried to speak your language I'm happy you laughed
Cause I'm hardly a linguist
Spoke through kisses you didn't speak English
And it was hard to distinguish
Love at first sight or holiday romance?
Don't care I was lost in the moment
I really shoulda missed that flight

Hey, good morning
Watch the sun come up
It's calling
I want another day with you
Hey, good morning
Watch the sun come up
It's calling
I want just one more day with you

Believe me I wanna stay
But I'm going away

I don't think I could be dreaming I felt your touch
No I remember you breathing when I woke up
Now all I have are these memories I can't trust
Just one day, wont be enough

Season of love

Today officially marks the start of fall season, and I couldn't be more ecstatic. Fall is my favorite time of year. I love the colors of the leaves and the smell of the crisp, cool air. And I finally get to sport my favorite scarves, hats, boots, etc. Whatever it takes to warm me up.

This also is a time for lovers. I mean, really, what is more satisfying than cuddling up next to your loved one under the blankets, sharing your warmth with one another? Or taking a walk in the park, holding hands, as the leaves crunch beneath your boots. I envision fireplaces, hot cocoa and making out. Lots of making out.

And I can't have a healthy winter make-out session without a warm, soothing playlist. So here's my attempt at creating a soundtrack to set the tone for a night in with your lover. I'm making this a long list, folks, so download the tracks and burn yourself a CD.

I know I may seem cold and cynical at times. I preach of the single life and how good it feels to be content by oneself. Deep down, I'm just as soft as the next girl. And these tracks bring out the lover in me.

Milosh - You Make Me Feel
Telefon Tel Aviv - I Lied
Beck - Everybody's Gotta Learn Sometimes
The XX - Teardrops
Beth Gibbons - Romance
Mylo - Need You Tonite
Bombay Dub Orchestra - Feel
Morcheeba - Undress Me Now
Soil & Pimp Sessions - Ha Hen
Boomclap Bachelors - Combiner
The Sea And Cake - New Schools
Pinback - Penelope

Eighties rewind

Judging by conversations with friends and random pop-culture findings of my own, I think there is a large population out there of people who hate 80s music. I'm not sure why that is. Sure a lot of the artists back then were slightly on the corny side of the spectrum, but that's all at first glance. The 80s get a bad rep, and you should also know that without the music of the 80s, all that trendy electro the kids are listening to these days wouldn't exist. So today I'd like to share some of my all-time favorites with you. For some reason, I got into a new-wave, industrial kinda groove while typing away in my cubicle.

Although I was just a child during those years, I became very familiar with the music of that era very quickly. As I've shared with you before, I became a music junkie when I was still in diapers! So here are some songs that remind me of my childhood. Songs that stuck with me over the past two decades. Songs that made me a music lover.

You'll notice these tracks aren't what most 8-year-olds would fall in love with, but I did. I mean, what child understands the heartache in Morrissey's voice, or desires to hear the angry and aggressive stylings of Ministry? What child can even begin to understand the love David Byrne illustrates in the Talking Heads' "A Naive Melody?" While my peers were busy playing with Barbie dolls and going to the circus and whatever most normal children do, I was in my bedroom blasting my headphones imagining myself as a rock star.

I'm sure I was too young to even begin to understand or relate to these following tracks. But for some reason, they stuck with me. And looking back, I listen to them now, and they possess so much meaning. They strike a nerve and probably will for many more decades to come. Listen closely.


Talking Heads - A Naive Melody (This Must Be The Place)
Ministry - So What
The Smiths - Barbarism Begins at Home
Secession - Touch

Wonders never cease

Have you ever traveled alone? Up until last week, I never have—not internationally at least, and definitely not for more than two days. A once in a lifetime opportunity presented itself, and I took this spur of the moment trip to Costa Rica, for one week by myself.

I gotta say...I learned more about myself in that one week than in the past five years of my life. I know it sounds cliché—going on a soul-searching journey and finding yourself and all that other hoopla. But I'm dead serious. There is something about that country that makes you one with nature, gives you a sense of clarity, puts things into perspective. Once that tiny charter airplane landed, I didn't embrace the earth; rather I kissed the sky (just as He advised). It was an enlightening moment.

Essentially, I was a beach bum for a few days. I woke up early in the morning, shortly after sunrise and I'd walk along the beach. I'd lay out and sun bath. And simply meditate. I'd listen to my iPod, but never too loud. I didn't want to drown out the music the ocean made as the waves crashed against the shore.

Along my journey, I met a man who had such a strong presence. I had to talk to him, and shortly after meeting him, I understood why. He possessed such a positive outlook, an infectious smile, an inspiring voice. He was kind enough to share some of his music collection with me, and he even freestyled a lil' something for me—a rap that was all about me! For the first time in my life, I felt I was someone's muse. I inspired art!

My final evening in Costa Rica was spent on my hotel room deck, in a jacuzzi. I drank wine, blasted my iPod through the speakers in the suite, and I lost myself. I closed my eyes and let the ocean waves carry me away. I was at peace, and I haven't felt that in a long time.

So I come back to the States, after my many revelations, meditations, inspirations, realizations, etc. And I share with you the music that made up the soundtrack of my journey. Maybe it'll inspire something in you as it inspired something in me.

Morcheeba - Wonders Never Cease
Sia - Breathe Me (Four Tet Remix)
Mylo - Zenophile
Zero 7 - Crosses
Thievery Corporation - The Shining Path
Little Dragon - Scribbled Paper
Chicane - Salt Water
Muse - Starlight
Manu Chao - Me Gustas Tu

See into the trees...

People come in and out of our lives for a reason. Most recently I've become acquainted with certain inspirational, wise and beautiful people. And I just want to say "Thank you." Your thoughts, your ideas, your affection and your concern, your beauty and your passion have given me motivation to strive for so much more in my own life.

Lately I've been neglecting certain areas of my life (most importantly this blog!), and I dedicate this song to you. You push me softly. And that's all I want or need. And you've also inspired me to improve myself in other ways.

I recently decided to take up the guitar! I gotta give my "teacher" props. Your love for music is moving, and it has sparked something in me. It's amazing—the art of learning to play an instrument. The way it makes you listen to music differently. I've heard "A Forest" by The Cure before plenty of times, but I never gave it much thought... Until I was instructed to learn and practice that catchy lil' riff a couple of days ago. And now I can't get that song out of my head. I keep listening to it over and over again, and my fingertips are drawn to the guitar strings. It's magnetism.

So, here I want to share with you an acoustic version of this awesome track. One day, I'll play it just as well! And every time I hear this song, I will think of you...my friends.

And for any of you reading this right now, if you play an instrument, I encourage you to learn this song. It may have a profound effect on your musical abilities, or maybe you'll just like the song a little bit more. Either way, I want you to jam.


The Cure - A Forest (acoustic)

My favorite song...today...

I literally just logged onto Juno Records' website minutes ago and searched the new house releases. This is the first song I listened to, and I'm addicted. Although I wanted my next blog entry to be about my recent adventures at Lollapalooza, this had to be shared. The reason being: it's not your typical house. I actually don't know why it was listed under the house category, to be honest with you. Yes, it can absolutely be mixed into a good house set. But this is also a song I can see my dad, a classic rock lover, jamming to as he drives through the desert in his old-school 1975 Pontiac Trans Am. If the blues and house procreated, this song would be the spawn.

A Mountain of One - Bones (Thomas' Way of Ancients Remix)

P.S. Stay tuned. I will have a full Lollapalooza recap ready for you in the next few days!

For Lil' Joe

Hi friends, I'm writing today on my friend Joe's behalf. If you live in the Chicagoland area, you may already be aware of the incident that occurred in Humboldt Park early Saturday morning. I'm not going to get into it right now, so here's the link for you.

After this unfortunate attack, Stephanie Herrera is dead and little Joe Penkala is in a coma. No words can express the confusion and sadness I feel. I'm disgusted with such a violent act against these young, bright, innocent kids. I stumbled upon Lil' Joe's Facebook page after the incident, and I think I'd like you to do the same. Listen to the song below, as I did while I read the comments, and read the heartfelt and thoughtful messages people are leaving for this young man. And maybe you'll understand the devastation his family and friends are feeling right now.

I would also like to take this opportunity to invite you to a fundraiser that Joe's family and friends are hosting this Saturday, Aug. 8, at Underpass Bar & Lounge in Franklin Park, Ill., from 3pm to 3am. More details can be found at www.saferentertainment.com, a website Joe's friends created that is dedicated to this cause.

So please do me a favor and check out all these links above. And take the time to really read the messages on his Facebook wall. Yes, it is sad, but so eye-opening. It's a heavy dose of reality. Joe didn't deserve this. No one deserves this, but you can make a difference. Spread the word.

And the reason why I chose this song to be your background music is because it captures these heavy emotions. "Strangers in the Wind" is a very chill, mellow song that I would listen to on my drive back home from the city, similar to the drive these kids were taking Friday night. Although the song has a sad tone, I feel hopeful when I listen to it. And I have hope that Lil Joe is gonna make it.


Cut Copy - Strangers in the Wind

Face in a cloud

I've been in this British phase the past month or so. I just can't get enough of the UK-based bands and DJs, such as Bloc Party, Calvin Harris, Dizzee Rascal, Hard-Fi, The Streets and most recently, Audio Bullys.

This track has been on repeat for the past few days, and I don't see it getting old anytime soon. The first time I listened to it I had no idea what was in store. The song had so many ups and downs and rapid turns, I didn't know what to expect.

After a rough weekend, this was the perfect jam to get me started on my Monday morning commute to work. I had to share it with you. Trust me, your laptop speakers will do this song no justice. I prefer you bump this in your ride.

If you like house music or just some funky beats, check this out. As soon as you think you have this song figured out, you'll be in for a nice little treat.

Audio Bullys - Face in a Cloud

Love story with no happy ending

I love it when one single song has the ability to create a movie in the listener's mind. I listen to the track in its entirety and envision scene after scene. Sometimes I'm the star, other times I simply create characters in my head. Either way, I absolutely love those songs that bring on this creative force in my mind.

Although I like to play it off with this tough girl exterior, I really am a softy and a romantic at heart. And for the most part, most of Erlend Øye's songs direct a love story in my mind. Now, that's not to say it's always a happy ending. Most love stories end in tragedy, don't they? Maybe that's the cynic in me writing. Anyhow, when I heard this song this evening (for the first time), this was my vision:

A young man is traveling with his friends. During one of their excursions, a beautiful girl catches his eye. He initiates conversation with the girl, who is also traveling through this foreign land, and doesn't even notice his friends leave him. He spends the entire rest of the day with her. She makes him feel more alive than he's ever felt in his life. They experience the city and behave as if they had known each other for years, like no one else is around. He decides to spend the rest of his trip with her and she with him. And when it's time for the girl to leave and return home, he follows her. He leaves all that he knows behind to be with this girl. But once they reunite, things aren't the same. She found another, and already forgot about him. His heart is crushed and he retreats back home. And years later, thousands of miles away, he still thinks of her...


Erlend Øye - Ghost Trains

Another day, another Mouse

With mice and Lollapalooza on my mind, I realized I never posted a Deadmau5 track in any of my previous Lolla posts. The annual three-day music event has always been known to host a variety of rock bands, but with electronica emerging more into the mainstream, it only seems right that the event organizers would throw in some DJs and other similar acts, including MSTRKRFT, Kaskade, Boys Noize, A-Trak and Deadmau5.

I find Deadmau5's mixes to be quite intoxicating and hypnotic. I really want to catch his set, but I'm not sure that's going to happen since The Killers are performing at the same time. And as much as I love to dance to some nasty house beats, I'd much rather jam out to actual instruments.

But that's neither here nor there. This post is about Deadmau5 and how sick his mixes and original beats are. Here's one of my current faves...

Deadmau5 - Slip (Sebastien Leger Remix)

Could the Mouse be anymore underrated?

For the most part, I like to focus my energy on those artists that I find to be underrated. With all the ridiculously overrated music on the airwaves these days, somebody's got to spread the word about all these lesser-known musicians that sound a million times better than the garbage you hear on the radio or see on MTV.

The first band that came to mind as I was coming up with ideas for this blog post this morning was Modest Mouse. I was under the impression that they were a pretty well-known band with good recognition. I never really gave them a chance until a few weeks ago. Years ago, I heard that "Float On" track, didn't like it very much, and so I dismissed them. But it seemed people actually liked that song and the band, or so I thought.

I have recently been reintroduced to Modest Mouse, and I gave their other tracks a listen. Go figure, they're my new favorite band (if you know me at all, you are already well aware of the fact that my "favorite band" changes on a monthly basis).

So I got a hold of two Modest Mouse albums, Good News For People Who Who Love Bad News and We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank, and I must say they are both stellar albums that you can listen to all the way through. They have catchy beats and intoxicating vocals. They tell a story with each song. Trust me, Google their lyrics.

And I honestly didn't consider them an "underrated" band until I began asking my pals about their opinion of Modest Mouse. I get into musical conversations with anyone and everyone, friends and strangers. To my surprise, the consensus was that no one really listened to their music. I couldn't believe it!

I guess that's why I'm here now, sharing four of my favorite Modest Mouse tracks below. Please give them a listen. And if after you listen (to all four!) you still don't care about them, so be it. But if you fall in love with their music like I did, you owe me!

Modest Mouse - Education
Modest Mouse - Bukowski
Modest Mouse - We've Got Everything
Modest Mouse - Invisible

Beach fun minus the beach

Due to poor budgeting on my part, I most likely will not be able take any significant vacations in the near future. So although laying out in the sun next to the ocean, piña colada in hand, is my most favorite thing to do, I'll have to live my beach fantasies through music.

Here in Chicago, we have Lake Michigan. That's our version of the beach. It's no Pacific Ocean, but it works. And it makes me happy. So in the meantime, I'll take my iPod to the lake, rest my head on a blanket, gaze at the night sky and dream about the day I finally make it back to the ocean.

Below you will find three of my favorite summer tracks. No matter where I may be, these carefree house beats immediately transport me to the beach. I can feel the sand between my toes, smell the ocean and hear the waves crash. In my mind, I'm wearing my bathing suit and long flowing skirt, dancing along the water. The sun is shining bright, and I'm surrounded by friends. It's a nice place to be, isn't it? Try it.


Ian Pooley - Balmes (A Better Life)
Espirito - Canto de Orfeo
DJ Kaos - Love The Nite Away (Tiedye Mix)

Tell me the story of how you ended up here

I was out of town for the past few days, and I just returned this evening. And for some reason, I can't stop listening to this song. I heard it for the first time the day before I flew out, but I haven't been able to truly appreciate it and listen to it in the right environment until now.

I have no idea what that means. "Hospital Beds" can be a metaphor for many things I suppose. But rather than use my time attempting to interpret words, I think I'll just sit back, close my eyes and turn up the speakers.


Cold War Kids - Hospital Beds