Winter cleaning...

So I'm sitting here, with nothing to do. So I decide to continue organizing the music on my hard drive...an ongoing project that will probably never be complete. If you have an immense amount of music, though, I highly recommend attempting to clean it up and organize it. It helps you rediscover music you forgot about, haven't listened to in a while, or just neglected in the recent past.

Anyhow, so I'm sitting here organizing my music folders, and I begin another neglected task...creating a workout playlist! I haven't been to the gym in ages, and I keep blaming my lack of a "workout playlist" for my absence from the gym. Shame on me...

Basically...I need to get my $hit back in order! My music is in disarray, and my muscles are dwindling!

While I worked on these two projects simultaneously, I came across this track. Either I've been out of the house scene way too long, or house DJs just suck ass now. Someone please tell me which it is, because I just don't hear tracks like this anymore! 

Check it out, let it warp your mind. And get back to me.


Chris Kaeser - Atomic Control

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Snap out of it!

Damn you Daylight Savings! I'm all sorts of backwards right now. What is the point anyway? Great, I see the sun earlier in the morning, and my drive home from work is black as hell. Wonderful. What a dumb system. 

There's something about autumn and the changing of the season that makes me think a whole lot. I think about what's missing, rather than my blessings. Although I'm probably the happiest I've been in a long time, it still feels like something isn't right. And I know I'm not alone. I hear negativity all around me, just by listening to my friends talk or reading my friends' Facebook status messages and what not. The cold weather takes away our spirit, and we're left feeling unmotivated and uninspired.

So what does one do to snap out of this dismal mood? Just with almost anything else, I find solitude in music. 

I downloaded the album Contraption by Beats Antique last night before I went to bed...solely because I heard one of the songs on Pandora yesterday afternoon and liked it. Well, I was in my usual gloomy morning mood as I drove to work this morning. Until...I played my new album and instantly that mood was reversed. Instantly, all the negative thoughts went away. Instead, my mind began circling around all the positivity in my life. And I began taking mental notes of all the things I want to do today, tomorrow, over the weekend, during the winter, etc. 

It's so easy to get stuck in that winter depression, but I'm not going to let that happen. I'm far too perky and optimistic for that nonsense. And I was reminded of this as I danced all the way to work in my car. 




Beats Antique - Mission


Beats Antique - She's Looking For Something

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Music is my drug

I've recently been introduced to the calming grooves of Emancipator, and I was quite bummed to have missed his recent show in Chicago on Oct. 30. But the more I thought about it, the more I was actually happy I didn't waste my $44. There is something very depressing about standing there, witnessing a guy and his lap top; it makes me kinda nauseous. I like bands, you know...with instruments. That's what a real show is about. 

Not to take anything away from electronic music. It's still music, and an art. It's just not something I'd spend money to watch live. I think electronic music is best listened to in the car, in the shower, at work, etc. It's excellent background noise for any moment.

I listen to a lot of music, as you already know. But there is something so tranquil and calming about this new style of classical, lo-fi, jazz-like electronica. Actually, I think I just made it sound a lot more complicated than it really is. It's probably the one genre I can listen to at any time of any day and feel better than I had moments before. 

It's not ridiculously complicated or technical. It's simple, yet thought provoking. Peaceful, yet dramatic. It puts me in a dream. It's my drug. Who needs opiates, when you've got music?!
I hope it has a similar effect on you. Here are my two favorite Emanipator tracks, followed by two somewhat comparable tracks by similar artists.



Emancipator - Lionheart


Emancipator - Anthem


RJD2 - Smoke & Mirrors


Xploding Plastix - More Powah to You

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My Happiness Project

Well hot damn! Did I really go the entire month of September with not a single blog post? Shame on me. Totally unacceptable. YOU might not care...but this is the place where I get my creative juices flowing. This is the place where I can vent and share and discuss the thing I love most in this world: music. And I have totally been slacking.

And it hasn't been without consequence. I've been feeling quite lethargic lately, and lost. I always believed pursuing one's passion was essential to life...and I somehow lost sight of this priority.

Some of you might be feeling as down as I have been. The fall weather sometimes does that to us, especially here in Chicago. We go from hot temperatures, beautiful flowers and days spent on the lakeshore to chilly days and gloomy skies. It can be difficult to keep your optimism when everything around you is darkening.

But you know...there is another way to look at things. The fall and early winter symbolizes the end of a year. That's 365 days of your life gone, and a new 365 await!

I just bought a book over the weekend: The Happiness Project. I'm only about 10 pages into it, but I already feel better about myself and my future. And I encourage you all to re-evaluate your life, your priorities, your values...and most importantly, what truly makes YOU happy. I know I sound like a hippie, but I don't really give a $hit. I'm sick of putting everything and everyone before me. It's not fair to me, and it's not fair to you. How can you taste the real Jazzy flavor, when I'm always worrying about something or someone?

It's time to stop worrying, and make a change. That change begins now, with this post. Here are some tracks that are currently getting me pumped for all the endeavors that await me tomorrow, next week, next month and into 2011.

Cheers!

Faunts - Out on a Limb

Maritime - Parade of Punk Rock T-Shirts

The Strokes - What Ever Happened

Cursive - In The Now

The Smiths - Death of a Disco Dancer

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Keep me guessing

Sometimes I hear something that sounds like nothing I have ever heard before. I can sit there and attempt to "label" it, or even try to guess influences, but it never makes any sense.

But really when you think about it, isn't that the beauty of art? When you can create your own meaning and find inspiration within the music that applies to you personally. When it trips you out every single time and never gets old.

I urge you to listen to these two tracks. Animals as Leaders somehow managed to sync every element that I love about music. It's rock. It's edgy. It's trippy and even "electronic" at moments. It's instrumental. It's progressive. It's emotional. It keeps me guessing. It's dramatic.

If you are a true music fan and appreciate true skill, you will notice the talent of guitarist Tosin Abasi immediately. It's not even debatable. He's a genius.

And if you agree, you might want to check them out live. Animals as Leaders will be on tour this fall with Circa Survive, dredg and Codeseven. I'll be at their House of Blues show in Chicago on November 19.



Animals as Leaders - On Impulse



Animals as Leaders - Behaving Badly

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Stoner rock maaaaaan

The thing that I love about the progression of rock music is that it is so unpredictable. And my musical taste buds have been transforming just as much as the music over the years. I hated metal and all forms of aggressive rock many years ago, but I must say I am really digging the direction in which rock music is going and has been going over the past few years.

It seems as though the heavier guys (not the emo, wannabe-punk bands...I'm talking REAL rock music here, folks) have been moving into a stoner rock direction. Mostly instrumental and lots of trippy melodies. Not too much focus on vocals. It's about the technicality of the music and its many progressions. 

I have recently been introduced to the MANY bands that subscribe to this quasi-genre. Isis, Irepress, Mogwai and Animals as Leaders are just a few. And one of my hometown favorites...Russian Circles. The first time I heard one of their tracks, I was NOT too impressed. Theirs is the kind of music that grows on you. You have to really get into it. Pay attention. And when you do, you will be floored by their brilliance.

So when I found out they're playing a show at the Metro in Chicago this Friday, you better believe I got a ticket immediately. I have a feeling this is the kind of show that will move me and the rest of the crowd and stimulate all sorts of thoughts. I look forward to the mind trip.

The songs below are both the opening tracks on two different albums. Russian Circles sure know how to suck the listener in. If you're not vibing two minutes into each track, you have no soul! 



Russian Circles - Carpe


Russian Circles - Fathom

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Absinthe party, what?

You know...I really, truly believed that I'd be a Lollapalooza attendee this year, however after taking my upcoming travels and expenses into consideration, I decided three days of sweat, overpriced beer and overflowing port-a-potties wasn't worth the $200.

But that doesn't mean I can't enjoy the music! Luckily, a lot of the Lolla artists play more intimate shows at random Chicago venues throughout the weekend. One of the bands I really wanted to see, Minus the Bear, will be playing this Saturday night at the Double Door. So if you're like me and snoozed on the whole Lolla thing, there's still opportunities to catch after-shows.

It's weird, I know Minus the Bear has been around for a while; I just never gave them a fair chance. I do that a lot. I recently got reintroduced to their first LP, Highly Refined Pirates, and it's been on repeat for weeks. It reminds me of the beach--just getting drunk with my lover, watching the waves crash, wrestling in the sand, enjoying a bonfire, etc.

Especially the track "Absinthe Party at the Fly Honey Warehouse." Utopian paradise!

I know they have a new album out, but maybe they'll read my mind and play my three favorite songs from Highly Refined Pirates...


Minus the Bear - Thanks for the Killer Game of Crisco Twister


Minus the Bear - Monkey!!! Knife!!! Fight!!!


Minus the Bear - Absinthe Party at the Fly Honey Warehouse


You can download the full album here.

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Baroness @ Subterranean!

Ok, first let me preface this post by saying that I am not and have never been a fan of metal or overly aggressive rock music. It's not my style. That being said, if you should take anyone's recommendations on this genre, it should be me!

I was dragged to a Baroness show in Indianapolis a couple of months back, and let me emphasize dragged. I almost bought ear plugs because I was sure the music would destroy me. Surprisingly, ear plugs were not needed.

We walked into the venue in the middle of their set, and I was shocked. The music wasn't half bad. The last song they performed was "Swollen & Halo." My friend turned to me and said, "You're gonna love this one." Sure enough, Baroness was quite impressive with their catchy riffs and powerful vocals.

Immediately after the show, I couldn't stop playing their album Blue Record. And lucky me, they've got a show this Saturday at Subterranean in Chicago.

Cheap show, good tunes. Come through.


Baroness - Swollen & Halo


Baroness - A Horse Called Golgotha

Oh...and just an interesting little tidbit. Singer John Baizley is responsible for all the band's album artwork. He's brilliant! If you come to the show, bring some cash. You'll want to take home a poster or two.

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Late night drive

Friday is usually the day I post some crazy, obnoxious, pulsating track(s) to hype everyone up for the upcoming weekend debauchery. But that's not really where my mind is at right now.

I'm more concerned with that late-night drive home, once the festivities are complete. That trek home can sometimes feel like forever. I know, for me, I wish I could just teleport to my bedroom. Unfortunately, that's not possible. So I like my drive to be as peaceful and calm as possible. This is a time I like to reflect and zone out.

I've already written about Little People in a previous post, but I felt the need to revisit the work of this compelling artist today. I'm in a very reflective mood, and I think these are the tracks I'll be listening to all weekend. If you like Portishead and/or Tricky, you'll love this.

So download these nostalgic tunes, and zone out tonight.


Little People - Unsaid


Little People - Breathe Again (feat. Rachel Roberts)


Little People - Start Shootin'


Little People - Eitheror

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Lighten up!!!

What is it with people today? It just seems like everyone is a goddam crab ass lately...myself included. It's summertime, and we should all be thankful we're alive. The sun is shining bright, the breeze is blowing women's skirts up throughout the city, and all the lanes are open on the Eisenhower expressway! C'mon people...cheer up!

I've decided to take it upon myself to lift everyone's spirits today with some "pick me up" jams. Sit back, relax, pick up a 12-pack of Sol or Pacifico (Mexican beer seems to hit the spot in the summer), put on your shades, and f*cking enjoy the day.

I'm sick of hearing you cry about your lame 9-to-5 job. I don't want to hear about how your lame boyfriend forgot to throw out the trash. Quit crying about your bills and gas prices. You think you're the only one with problems? No, genius, you're not. We've all got 'em. So do yourself a favor and FORGET about them. Drink the day away and sway to some tunes. That's what I'll be doing the rest of the summer.

Cheers!


OK Go - This Too Shall Pass


Death From Above 1979 - Romantic Rights


The Radio Dept. - Heaven's On Fire


Broken Bells - The High Road


Felix da Housecat - Rocket Ride (Freeform Five Reform)


Caribou - Odessa


Cage the Elephant - Back Against the Wall


JJ - My Way


The Melismatics - Soul Sucker


Mount Sims - How We Do

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Late to the party

Sometimes I'm wrong about an artist. I'll hear one track by a band and immediately dismiss them without even bothering to listen to anything else. Such a shame...

I first heard of Miike Snow when I was researching all the Lollapalooza artists last year. I have no idea which song I actually listened to, but all I know is that it sounded too poppy for me. And that was the last I heard of Miike Snow.

Until now.

As I was listening to my Whitest Boy Alive station on Pandora a few days ago, Miike Snow kept reappearing. Three songs within a few hours. The first two had me dancing in my chair, but then I heard "Cult Logic" and I knew I had to have that album. My only regret is that I could have been jamming to this stuff for the past year, if only I hadn't been late to the party. Oh well...better late than never.

Miike Snow is not a solo poppy poser like I had assumed. As a matter of fact, it's not one guy...it's three! There's your fun fact for the day, folks.

Anyhow, if you need something upbeat, fun and catchy in your life right now, here you go.



Miike Snow - Cult Logic


Miike Snow - Burial


Miike Snow - Black & Blue

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Who's goin to SummerFest?

I couldn't decide this morning if I wanted to write about the ultimate summer backyard party playlist or the quickly approaching SummerFest, which is taking place in Milwaukee June 24 to July 4.

As I started downloading tracks from the SummerFest artists I realized this WAS the beginning of a great party playlist. So lucky me...two birds, one stone.

Even if you can't make it to SummerFest this year, you'll still have a pretty healthy foundation below to start your summer playlist.

I've never been to SummerFest, although I've wanted to attend for many years. They always seem to put together a pretty diverse lineup. And as soon as I saw Modest Mouse on the lineup for July 3, I knew I had to go. After all, it's a $12 entry fee. If you're within a reasonable driving distance to Milwaukee, there is no reason you can't come as well.

So here's your preview. Hope you can make it!



Modest Mouse - I Came As A Rat


Thievery Corporation - Shadows Of Ourselves


Passion Pit - Live To Tell The Tale


Cage The Elephant - Back Against The Wall


The Melismatics - Soul Sucker


The Bravery - An Honest Mistake


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Foals Friday!

A little over a year ago, I posted a few tracks off of Foals' debut album Antidotes. I became pretty obsessed with them at the time. The album grew on me, more and more each day. And to this day, I blast those sassy tracks when I need a little pick-me-up.

I waited and waited and waited some more for a new album to come out. And my prayers were finally answered this week! The new Foals album, Total Life Forever, was released earlier this week and I haven't stopped playing it yet. It's definitely different than their first album. Less sass, more imaginative. The band members have been cited saying this album is more "tropical prog." And I'd have to agree.

Here's a little sample for your taste buds. These are the opening two tracks of the album. If you like what you hear, I suggest BUYING the album. That's right, I said it. Buy the damn thing!



Foals - Blue Blood


Foals - Miami

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F*ck it, let's have some fun

I think I have a new favorite Pandora station. I've been jamming to a lot of house lately, and I figured Crazy Penis would be a good starting point for a funky house Pandora station. I was so right. This track blasted through my speakers this morning, and my shoulders started bouncing. So if you like it, check out Crazy Penis' station on Pandora.

This has got to be the perfect tune to start the weekend. Such a feel-good, funky vibe. It's Friday, and I'm all smiles. I'm ready to cause some mischief with with my pals this weekend.

Don't just dance. Absorb the words...

"F*ck it. Let's have some fun. Forget about the bad times. Forget about the sad times."



The Evil Tambourines - Saturn

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I can't wait to see your face again

I've been slacking in the blog department lately. And it's not because I'm too busy or because I'm lazy. I've been feeling so uninspired. It seems as though I have the most to write about when I'm unhappy. In the past, my muse has always been my sadness. That pattern needs to stop now.

I haven't been writing because I'm happy. Imagine that!

Leo Zero's remix of Kenneth Bager's "I Can't Wait" popped up on my shuffle this morning, and it was so fitting. Ain't nothing like a funky, fresh house track to put me in a good mood. And if I'm already in a good mood, even better.

Those lyrics, "I can't wait to see your face again. I keep thinking of the times we had. And you're the one I'm waiting for. Cause I can't wait to see your face again. I'm heading off to work in the pouring rain. I can't wait to get home to you..."

Too fitting. I'm happy, and just because the angst is gone doesn't mean I have nothing to share with you. It's time to revisit the genre that inspired me to start this blog in the first place. House.

Enjoy :)


Kenneth Bager - I Can't Wait (Leo Zero Remix)

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We Are Born...sassy!

Sia is performing at the Vic Theatre in Chicago this Sunday Sunday Sunday!

You may disagree, but Zero 7 just hasn't been the same since Sia went solo. She took something with her. Some soul, some depth.

I recently got my hands on some tracks off her new album, which will debut June 7. The title is quite fitting: We Are Born. Sia's earlier music had more of a somber tone...the kind of music I would listen to after a nasty break-up or some other traumatic experience.

This new album, on the other hand, makes me want to get up and dance. I want to take the world by the balls and make some positive changes. It just makes me feel young, vibrant and sassy. See for yourself...


Sia - The Fight


Sia - Clap Your Hands

And here she is performing an older track, "Breathe Me," live in 2008. It is one of the most beautifully depressing songs I've ever heard!

Hello habit, welcome back!

Last night, it occurred to me the exact reason why I have been neglecting my writing. I mean, geez, look to your right and scroll down to my posts in 2009. I posted something almost everyday! Now, I'm lucky if I get in a post a week. I should be ashamed!

Anyhow...back to my original thought. So as I sat in the car and smoked a hitter, I listened to this track by Modest Mouse. My mind wandered to places it hasn't been in quite some time. And I started analyzing the strangest elements of the music. It suddenly occurred to me that I haven't been writing because I haven't been smoking!

That being said, I look forward to sparking up a fatty at SummerFest this Saturday while Modest Mouse hopefully plays this track and others that don't suck. (Please don't play Float On, please don't play Float On!!)

This is exactly the kind of track a stoner can appreciate. It's mellow, it's slightly repetitive, it's got those sinister strings and the lyrics reflect something so sad yet uplifting at the same time.

"So long to this cold, cold part of the world..."

So haunting. It reminds me of the moment you realize you need to say goodbye to a bad habit.

But me? I'm saying, "Welcome back!" to a habit. Otherwise, I'll have nothing more to say ;)



Modest Mouse - The Cold Part

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Holla for that Lolla!

It's that time of year, folks. Music festival time. Last year was my first Lollapalooza experience, and despite the hot, humid air; frightening port-a-potties; and sweaty crowds, I had a fabulous time.

I walked around like a nomad, making pals at each stage. We shared recreational goodies and danced in the dirt.

One memorable moment occurred during the Arctic Monkeys set. A highly intoxicated fellow standing next to me passed out unexpectedly. I watched as his eyes rolled back and he collapsed. I had my trusty liter of water and immediately poured it on his face. And everyone around us contributed as well. They started passing over ice cubes, water, napkins, etc. A few minutes later, drunky came back to life and had another beer. It was quite the experience.

This year's lineup was announced on Tuesday, and although the headliners are grabbing the most attention, it's the little guys I'm most interested in seeing. That's the best part, in my opinion. Discovering new artists that I never would have heard otherwise. So I did my investigating and came up with this list of potential kick-ass bands...



Nneka - Heartbeat


Slightly Stoopid - Jimi


Hot Chip - I Feel Better


The Black Keys - Hold You In My Arms


Chromeo - Night by Night


Metric - Help I'm Alive


Rebelution - Safe And Sound


Temper Trap - Hearts


Warpaint - Elephants

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We know how to get down!

It is going to be a VERY busy weekend, folks. I'm heading to the Little Dragon show tonight, then Flying Lotus tomorrow, and last but certainly not least, Passion Pit in Milwaukee on Saturday.

I love that the weekend officially begins on Thursday (for my me and my pals at least). Why? Because "we know how to get down in the city!"

Here in Chicago, the temperature is in the high 70s. The sun is shining bright, and the light breeze feels so good! This is the perfect forecast for an insanely wicked weekend. What else does one need to top off a good weekend? An anthem!

This'll be mine. What's yours?

Frisky Friday!

I'm feeling a lil frisky today. I foresee some sexy trouble in my near future. Next Friday to be exact. Ha!

I became acquainted with Flying Lotus' experimental, downtempo tracks when I was going over the Coachella 2010 lineup. And wow! There's not much I can say. This is what I want to listen to as I'm walking around a semi-crowded room, scoping out the situation, sipping on my scotch, shaking my behind, turning heads.

And lucky for me, Flying Lotus is making a stop in Chicago before Coachella and playing at the Double Door next Friday.

If you like what you hear, join me. Deep, dark, sexy grooves for only $5!!! (In advance, that is...$10 at the door.)



Flying Lotus - Roberta Flack


Flying Lotus - Parisian Goldfish


Flying Lotus - Robo Tussin (feat. Lil' Wayne)


Flying Lotus - Camel (Nosaj Thing Remix)

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When it's dark, we'll be light

What will YOU be doing on April 1? No matter what your answer, I can think of something better. How about attending the Little Dragon show at Chicago's Lincoln Hall with me and my pals?

I've posted a few of their tracks in the past, but I don't think I ever gave them the credit and praise they deserve. That chill vibe and that soulful voice strike a serious nerve inside of me. Here's a taste...

"Stormy Weather" is probably my favorite track. A song about unconditional love and overcoming obstacles. No matter how cold and heartless I may try to pretend to be, nothing would be more satisfying than to feel the raw emotions expressed in those words: "No distance can separate. Imagine us combined, light up the room, electrify. Our love could be so divine. We'll make rainbows at night. And when it's dark, we'll be light."

The song that cemented my admiration for Little Dragon was "Constant Surprises," probably because I can relate to it most. If you know me by now, you know that my life is absolutely random. Everything is a surprise. Every incident, no matter how small, happens for a reason. Like she says, "Some call it coincidence, but I like to call it fate."

"A New" is quite possibly one of the sexiest tracks I've ever heard. I love the slow, sinister pace combined with that periodic drumline. It makes me think of the first intimate moment shared with someone. A first kiss perhaps? Butterflies and all. "Blinded like new. I'm feeling more strange about you."



Little Dragon - Stormy Weather


Little Dragon - Constant Surprises


Little Dragon - A New

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Garden of sound

So the folks at Lollapalooza typically release their upcoming lineup in April, but rumors start circling pretty early on in the year. One rumor that's been getting a ton of attention is that a reunited Soundgarden will headline this year's fest, and I couldn't be any more pumped!

I was obsessed with Soundgarden growing up. I had all their albums, and wore flannel shirts and banged my head through the air, mimicking Chris Cornell in the "Spoonman" video. They had such an original sound, and Cornell's voice was so thrilling.

Although I got my Chris Cornell fix after the break up, when he joined Audioslave, it just wasn't the same. Something was missing.

So when I heard about this possible reunion, I freaked out and decided I had to dedicate some blog space to Soundgarden's brilliance. Here are a few of my favorite tracks.

Crossing my fingers, hoping the rumors are true!!



Soundgarden - Fell On Black Days


Soundgarden - Pretty Noose


Soundgarden - Big Dumb Sex


Soundgarden - Limo Wreck

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Ragin' the road away

So yesterday, I asked my Facebook pals to let me know what they listen to when they're stuck in traffic. It occurred to me Thursday morning, as I was driving into work, that those moments when I'm feeling the road rage get to me are the times when I reacquaint myself with the random music in my car. So I wanted to hear from you and come up with the ultimate "Friday night traffic" playlist. If your Friday ride home is anything like mine, you'll need something to fuel the rage.

Below you'll find a mix of some of my personal favorites along with your suggestions. Some of you sent me some great calming and peaceful tunes, but today I focused mainly on the ragers. The ones that are going to keep me awake and aggressive on the road back home.

And please, keep sending me song suggestions...for any mood. I loved looking up the tracks you recommended. Although they didn't all end up on this list, they are all in my library now. Thank you.



The Offspring - Bad Habit



White Rabbits - Percussion Gun



Stereolab - Captain Easychord



The Knife - Girls Night Out



Iggy Pop & The Stooges - I Wanna Be Your Dog



Passion Pit - Sleepyhead (Wallpaper. Dio remix)



Talib Kweli - Say Something



Fear Factory - Descent



Death From Above 1979 - Romantic Rights (Dahlback Remix)



Tool - Right In Two



Eminem - Guilty Conscience



David Bowie - Rebel, Rebel

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A soul that would die just to feel alive

It's absolutely amazing–this power that music possesses. It makes me feel ALIVE. All those emotions I keep bottled inside pour out with one lyric, one melody, just like that.

Certain artists emulate this power better than others. And to witness a live performance of theirs can be a spiritual experience.

I'm pretty bummed I'm going to miss the Muse show this weekend. I have a unique attachment to their fourth studio album, Black Holes and Revelations. I think the title says it all. It came out in the summer of '06, but I didn't really listen to it much until a couple of years later when I was having some revelations of my own.

Anyhow, I'll be listening to this album a lot this week. Maybe someone out there will catch wind of these positive vibes and generously give me a ticket to the show. Ha!

This first track, "Map of the Problematique," is seriously intense. It makes me think about all the things that make me angry, but in a positive way. How can I get rid of the negativity, or how can I change it? My initial thoughts of destruction become motivation to make a change.

The second track, "Starlight," has a totally different effect on me. It almost makes me want to completely get lost in passionate, senseless love. My favorite lyric: "You electrify my life. Let's conspire to reignite. All the souls that would die just to feel alive."

If you're going to the show, I'm sure it'll be a profound blend of love and music. Enjoy! And tell me all about it!



Muse - Map of the Problematique


Muse - Starlight

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How you like me now?

Unless you paid close attention to the sixth season finale of Entourage or enjoy watching Kia commercials, that may be the only way you would have heard this track. Otherwise, get ready and enjoy the ride.

The Heavy is an English neo-soul, indie-rock band that has recently become the object of my obsession. I heard "How You Like Me Now?" on the radio the other day and downloaded the entire album immediately. Those funky horns and James Brown-esque vocals sucked me right in. I think I could wake up to this song every day.

And I'm clearly not the only one with this impression. Apparently, after their January 18 performance of "How You Like Me Now?" on The Late Show with David Letterman, Letterman requested they play an encore of the song, which is the first time the host has EVER asked an artist to perform an encore.

So hopefully I have piqued your curiosity a bit and you'll jam to these guys some more.

You can download the full album here.

And if you know anything about me and my obsession with skeletons, you understand why I love this video so much and had to post it.



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Beats, beats and more beats

I don't know much about this Onra character. My pal David advised I download the album Chinoiseries, and once I did I instantly knew this was an artist worth our attention.

The album has 32 tracks...THIRTY-TWO. But each one exhibits a certain emotion and paints a different picture. Onra is essentially a hip-hop beatmaker. His tracks are short and sweet. And the titles are pretty much self-descriptive. Do you need an uplifting vibe? Listen to "Hope." Or are you looking for a hard-hitting anthem? Check out "The Anthem." Perhaps you've got some cheesy butterflies, so vibe to "The Vallee of Love."

Enjoy!


Onra - Hope


Onra - The Anthem


Onra - The Vallee of Love

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Fly Phoenix @ The Shrine!

If you're in the Chicago area and you don't have plans for this Sunday night...now you do! And I'm not interested in hearing any lame excuses. Desperate Housewives is not acceptable!

Fly Phoenix is a band I accidentally stumbled upon a couple of weekends ago at Amp Rock Lounge. I didn't know what to expect when I saw these young, attractive 20-somethings setting up their equipment. They played some tunes, I bobbed my head. But what really caught my attention was this beautiful little riff the guitarist busted out in between songs. In traditional Jazzy fashion, I had to dance over to him and introduce myself and let him know I was feeling the grooves. And just like that, they made an instant fan.

I stalked their website and discovered they had an upcoming show at The Shrine and downloaded some of their tracks. I was impressed.

These gentlemen met each other while getting their education on at Columbia College, and today they're creating a funky blend of rock and soul. And although their studio recordings sound amazing, this is an act you have to see live to fully understand. And for the ladies out there...they're not too bad on the eyes ;)

If you have yet to catch a live set at The Shrine, you are missing out. See that stage above? Tell me you wouldn't want to see these guys tear it up on that stage.

So check out the tracks below, and join me this Sunday night at one of Chicago's up-and-coming music venues.


Fly Phoenix - Not Ready For Love

Fly Phoenix - Eden

Fly Phoenix - A Beautiful Moment

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When something is missing - Pt. 2

The song changed, and so did my mood.

I didn't intend for this to be a continuation of yesterday's post, but I think it fits. As I was driving this morning, I listened to these two tracks. And I felt this weight released off my shoulders. No more obstacles, and no more objections. They don't exist to me.

This particular variation of "classical" music is a bit harsher and more aggressive than yesterday's A Silver Mt. Zion, but it's just as powerful and emotionally charging. It's amazing how feelings of sadness later transform into anger and aggression. I guess it's part of our growth, and if you can't grow from pain, then you're not healing properly, right?

Those feelings of despair and weakness I was feeling yesterday became anger and antipathy with this first track today ("Autorock") and then finally strength and release with the second track ("Friend of the Night").

As these songs play in my "movie," a quote comes to mind that I feel expresses this message perfectly: "When you come to the edge of all the light you know and are about to step off into the darkness, faith is believing one of two things will happen: Either there will be something for you to stand on or you will learn to fly."

I think I'll learn to fly...


Mogwai - Auto Rock


Mogwai - Friend of the Night


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When something is missing

I heard A Silver Mt. Zion for the first time on my favorite blog Motel de Moka a few days ago. And I don't think I've ever been so overcome with emotion after listening to a song. It's probably a culmination of different things, but the song "Blown-Out Joy from Heaven's Mercied Hole" definitely put my mind in a place that no song ever has before. My mind is flooding with all sorts of thoughts, none of them very happy. But that happens sometimes, right?

If these three songs below made the soundtrack for the way I feel right now, this is what my movie would be like. It's been a cold and lonely winter, and something is absolutely missing. I imagine myself walking through the busy streets of Chicago, avoiding all eye contact. I stumble, and no one even blinks an eye. I go about my day, uttering not one word to anybody. Bottling up emotions. And no matter what I try, I feel trapped. Like I'm sinking, further and further. A downward spiral of anguish.

I know none of this sounds appealing, but I still urge you to give these tracks a listen. They are all on A Silver Mt. Zion's first album, the only one that I really like from start to finish. Your soundtrack may be different, but I know for sure that they'll get you thinking.

Classical music can be so haunting, especially those strings. I hope you're not too disturbed by the apocalyptic sounds. Me? I think I have a new favorite "genre."



A Silver Mt. Zion - Blown-Out Joy from Heaven's Mercied Hole


A Silver Mt. Zion - Stumble Then Rise on Some Awkward Morning


A Silver Mt. Zion - Sit in the Middle of Three Galloping Dogs

(FYI: If the songs don't start playing right away, just wait a minute or two. I'm having issues with 4shared.com, and the tracks take a while to start up.)

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F*ck it Friday!

"All the crazy sh*t I did tonight. Those will be the best memories. I just wanna let it go for the night. That would be the best therapy for me."

Folks, it has been one rough week for this chica. Friday is and, as long as I have a 9-to-5 gig, will probably always be my favorite day of the week. This is the night where I let loose and do exactly what I want to do. It's the kickoff to 50 hours of freedom!

So I normally try to stay away from tracks like this one. David Guetta really does nothing for me, BUT I'll give him props. He knows how to get the party started. And you throw KiD CuDi into the mix. Gaaangsta!

Have fun, be safe and make some memories this weekend, pals!


David Guetta - Memories (feat. KiD CuDi)

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I could never be your woman

Certain songs bring people who are otherwise polar opposites together. There are some songs out there that have the power to define an element of a generation. It's a bizarre phenomenon.

I can't think of anyone in my generation who has never heard "Your Woman" by White Town. And I definitely can't think of anyone who dislikes the song. No matter what your musical taste, it's just a catchy tune. It's got that hook, and those lyrics that speak to 1990s youth suffering from unrequited teenage love.

So I recently heard there was a remix of this track floating around. I downloaded it, and it was definitely lacking. I won't even waste internet space on that one. But then I got my hands on this edit, and although it doesn't capture the same emotions as the original, it is still quite catchy.


Wiley - Never Be Your Woman (Herve Re-Work)

And because I think this is a track that needs to be in everyone's music library, here is the original...


White Town - Your Woman

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Hood dreamin'

Beer bongs. Mike's Hard Lemonade. Card games. Joints, blunts and bongs. Spin the bottle. Walking: to the park, to 7-Eleven, to school. Ditching class. Busting each others' balls. Break dancing. Borrowing our parents' cars, and using Febreze to disguise the scent of cigarette smoke. Video games. Making out. Lots of making out. Amateur DJs. Dirty dancing in the basement.

These are the memories that flood my brain when I listen to these hip-hop tracks. I can't help but think of my adolescence. The trouble we got ourselves into, and all the fun that was had. I can picture it clearly. I see my friends and I melting into the couch, chugging away and laughing hysterically.

I don't know if it's a Chicago thing or if it's a generational. I guess it really doesn't matter. I wish I could recreate this vibe. Now, more than a decade later, we've all grown up. We don't need to party in our parents' basements anymore.

I would love to own my own bar. And in this bar, I'd play jams like these. All the patrons would be free spirits and accepting. We would dance, play games and light incense. And no matter how old we got, we would laugh like high school kids for hours straight.

Puff puff pass, friends...


Digable Planets - Dog It


Black Sheep - The Choice Is Yours


A Tribe Called Quest - Clap Your Hands

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Failure is not an option...

...and the time is right.

Tomorrow Jazzy's Joynt celebrates its first birthday. I can't believe a year has gone by already. It seems like just last week I was emailing my pals songs of the day, and one encouraged me to start a blog instead. So I did. Thank you, Justin.

Although I've learned and grown so much through this little project, it still needs tons more work. But I want to thank all of you who have supported me and made this fun for me. I appreciate the feedback and comments, positive and negative. It just makes me put more thought into future posts.

I'm now taking on even bigger projects and improving the ones that are already in the works, and failure just isn't an option. I am feeling so inspired right now. When I was trying to figure out which song to post to commemorate this moment in my life, "The Time Is Right" by Crazy Penis stood out.

Right now is the time. The time for me to make a difference, the time to feed that fire that burns inside of me. I have peace of mind, and this is the first time I think I ever uttered those words.

Now listen...and join me on this next adventure...

Stay tuned.



Crazy P - The Time Is Right

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I need a miracle!

I am severely depressed. I was so stoked about buying tickets to Coachella today when they went on sale...until I realized the concert dates are April 16 to 18. The thing is I'll be in California traveling for work that week, and that trip ends exactly on April 16...in GILROY, which is a good seven-hour drive away from Indio, which is where the three-day festival will take place. There's no way I'll make it. Well, unless there's a miracle waiting to happen. We'll see.

Anyhow, I was checking out the lineup today, and it looks wicked awesome: Muse, Jay-Z, MuteMath, Thom Yorke, MGMT, Sia, The XX, LCD Soundsystem, Deadmau5, Kaskade, Hockey, Passion Pit, Hot Chip, Spoon, De La Soul and my personal favorite, Whitest Boy Alive. That one actually stings pretty bad. They've never performed in the United States, as far as I know, and I'm going to miss it! Ouch.

To check out the full lineup, go to the Coachella website.

So, just for you, I spent the day downloading various tracks from artists on the Coachella roster this year. Here's a little taste...

And if any of you out there are miracle workers, keep me in mind ;)


Jay-Z - Moment Of Clarity
Little Dragon - Twice
Delphic - This Momentary
Flying Lotus - Tea Leaf Dancers
Sia - Buttons
De La Soul - Stakes Is High
LCD Soundsystem - Someone Great
Dirty Projectors - Stillness Is The Move
Klever - Kryptobounce
Muse - Map Of The Problematique
Wale - Pretty Girls
Kaskade - Everything
She & Him - Change Is Hard
Whitest Boy Alive - Fireworks
MGMT - Electric Feel (live @ Coachella 2008)

Do yourself a favor, and just download them all and burn a CD. Rock it in your ride this weekend. You won't regret it.

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