05 February, 2009

Nirvana vs. Tricky



So I'm at a bar last night with my best pals, James and Justin, and we decide to play some tunes on the jukebox. I see the Nevermind album by Nirvana and immediately get excited, and they actually had ALL the songs available to play. Usually, on these new digital jukebox machines, I only see "Smells Like Teen Spirit" and "Lithium." Anyhow, I digress...so I see the title "Something In The Way," which is a great song, but I honestly haven't heard it in several years. So I thought it was as good a time as any for a grade school flashback.

James and Justin encourage me to blog about the song, because I was so excited about it. So that's what I'm doing right now. I like James' description of Nirvana: "They're dirty. Kurt Cobain's voice is ugly. But that's why I like them. They're ugly, good music." I couldn't agree more. Nirvana was by no means a "pretty" sound. But they represented a generation, who, at that time, needed a voice — a dirty, honest voice. It just fit.

Anyhow, many years after I first heard this song, I discovered a cover by Tricky. I have to be in the right mood to listen to Tricky, who is very mellow, sinister and dark. And right now, I am feeling very conflicted. I normally hate covers, especially anyone who dare covers a Nirvana song. But I am beginning to feel like Tricky's version might be slightly better. I can't believe I just shared that.

Well, I'll leave it up to you. What do you think?


Nirvana - Something In The Way (Download)


Tricky - Something In The Way (Download)

04 February, 2009

The Blue-Eyed Artist

I dedicate this playlist to you, blue-eyed artist, who walked out of my life as quickly as you walked in. But this isn't a bitter message, it's thankful. I am grateful for the imprint you have left on my path. Although you walked out of my life without explanation, you did something very special and profound for me. In the brief time I knew you, you made me feel things I never thought I would or could feel again. That is a gift, blue eyes, and you will never even know.

It pains me that you'll never know what could have been. You excited me, and you still do. But I will admit, part of the reason you still get under my skin, even in your absence, is the mystery, the challenge, the unknown. However, I have no regrets, because I tried. You were hard to crack. But you will never know my story. The story I wanted so badly to share with you.

That door is now closed, and that is unfortunate. You walked in and out as quick as that game of Connect Four at Carol's.

Just listen to the songs, and know your impact.


Erlend Øye - A Sudden Rush (Download)

"A sudden rush of expectation...
Initial hint of disappointment...
Another blow of resignation...
Why did you come at all? If it wasn't for me."



The Whitest Boy Alive - Inflation (Download)

"Painless
So easy
You come fast
And leave me."



Bloc Party - The Present (Download)

"I wish I could've given you the lightness
The lightness that you deserve...
And they say time is a healer
And time will look after you
Let it go, let it go, let it go, let it go
Come over."

Woah!

I recently found this track while perusing one of my favorite blogs (www.dreambigdreamfree.com). It was an instant download and addition to my "party" playlist.

If I were a DJ, this is that song I'd play when I just hyped everyone up. The energy level on the dance floor is bangin. And just when they think it's over, I'd play this track. It gives 'em a nice, short break, calms things down a bit. Then, when they least expect it, I bring it back to that high-energy level, and the grooving can continue.

Just a thought...


Grum - Woah (FutureFlashs Disco Mix) (Download)

You know me the best

This song is about the love of your life, and it finally being your turn.

About the artist: Róisín Murphy has an incredible voice. And she is soooo strange, I love it! She's like a somewhat normal Björk. Which isn't saying much, I know. But she is so funky and fresh. Eeehh...correction: She's like
Björk meets Debbie Harry meets Lady Gaga. Yea, that's a much better description.



So this is probably one of my favorite songs...ever. I'm not quite sure if I have ever felt this way about anybody. But just listening to this song MAKES me want to fall in love with my best friend! It's so catchy and groovy!


Róisín Murphy - You Know Me Better (Download)

03 February, 2009

There's something in the air

Time to liven things up a bit on here. I realize my last couple posts have been quite mellow and slow to pick up. Here's something to get you riled up.



Digitalism has recently become one of my favorite electronic artists. I like to think of them as a modern-day, more uplifting New Order...for those of you who grew up in the 80s. They never fail to get me up and motivated. Their songs are definitely in constant rotation on my work-out playlist. Give 'em a try. See if this doesn't make you wanna throw something, do a funny dance, prank call, sing in the shower, or just smile :)


Digitalism - Pogo (Download)