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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 - SaturationZoot Woman - Blue SeaZoot Woman - Just A Friend Of MineZoot Woman - We Won't Break-
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 - AtheneHercules And Love Affair - Time WillHercules And Love Affair - Raise Me UpHercules And Love Affair - Blind-
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 BetterPhoenix - Love Like A SunsetPhoenix - 1901Phoenix - Too YoungThe Flaming Lips - Okay I'll Admit That I Really Don't UnderstandThe Flaming Lips - The Strange Design of ConscienceThe Flaming Lips - Mountain SidePete Yorn - Lose YouPete Yorn - Splendid Isolation-
