A Dinosaur in Brooklyn

2011-01-23T14:32:00.001-05:00

I hate when a passing F or G train makes my turntable skip. sigh.

The King Is... Great

2011-01-23T13:46:00.004-05:00

I've listened through a few times, and with the vinyl currently spinning on my record player, I can now officially say: I love The King Is Dead.

The Decemberists' latest is slightly stripped down and firmly on the folk side of their usual folk-prog-rock. I have to admit, as awesome as The Hazards of Love was, it often lost me. "The Rake's Song" was the only takeaway. BUT The King Is Dead is way more accessible without losing that distinct sound they've come to cultivate. Definitely on the lighter, jauntier side, leaving some of their epic sensibilities behind.

If you haven't already, go buy this album. It's seriously making me consider getting tickets to their Beacon Theater show. Yes, I would go uptown to hear this album!

Revamp, Reactivate!

2011-01-03T21:36:00.009-05:00

"My poor little blog has gone dormant too long. TOO LONG!"
- People all over the interwebs circa January 1st, 2011

But seriously, along with my other New Year's Resolutions and some recent blog envy, I'd like to start writing this blog again. Lucky you!

Welcome to the new Dinosaur in Brooklyn!
Featuring the very finest musings (I have) about music (and dinosaurs).

Let's start with the dino news:

In April, a display of sauropods, the WORLD'S LARGEST DINOSAURS, comes to the American Museum of Natural History! (via NewYorkology)

Now the music stuff:

1. The new Decemberists album, The King Is Dead, is streaming on NPR! It is very good! You should listen to it!

2. On December 21st (aka my birthday) Vampire Weekend released an iTunes Session featuring my favorite Bruce Springsteen song, "I'm Going Down." It sounds a lot like this version:

Good to be back, guys.

When Did This Become a Yeasayer blog?

2010-03-14T17:12:00.004-04:00

Probably my favorite track on the (somewhat uneven) new album, the video for "O.N.E." is rocking my world.

No one does Crazy-Weird as awesomely as they do (I'm looking at you Gaga!).

God I wish I was seeing them at Webster Hall in May.

mind = blown

2010-02-27T12:32:00.001-05:00

What do I love more than Vampire Weekend and Yeasayer? VAMPIRE WEEKEND/YEASAYER MASHUP!!!

Standout tracks both, I cannot BELIEVE how well this works. I never want to listen to anything else.

Surprise, Surprise

2010-01-08T15:46:00.003-05:00

I love the new Vampire Weekend. Contra is charming and wholly delightful. I won't bother reviewing it, mainly because there are only so many times a person can use the words "catchy" and "adorable" at one time.

Instead, I'm going to share this, an in-studio performance of Contra standout "California English" (courtesy of Pitchfork), not just because it's a good performance of a good song, but it is also hilarious. I literally gasped at 1:08.

I love how they just laugh and keep playing. What pros.

Nevermind What Anybody Else Does

2009-12-07T22:01:00.003-05:00

Based on the single "Ambling Alp," I am super excited for Yeasayer's new album.

The nudity and yellow goo laden video:

SO WEIRD! I LOVE IT!

NEW TED!

2009-11-30T22:50:00.004-05:00

And a release date! And a name! The Brutalist Bricks is out on Matador on March 9th. BUT you can download the lead single, 'Even Heroes Have To Die,' over at Pitchfork.

Now, I've heard this one live a few times now, and the studio version is exactly what I'd hope for. Plenty of energy, not over-produced, and a little drawn-out echoplex at the end. Oh Ted. LOVE.

Those Oh-oh-oh's are catchy, right? I am SO mad at myself for not getting tickets in time for his Bowery Ballroom show this weekend. Maybe I'll just show up and try to get in, it's worked before!

Only about 3 months to go for the album....

Don't Fight It

2009-11-23T20:09:00.003-05:00

You won't win.

I take back every bad comment I've made about Lady Gaga. You win Gaga. You've made the hottest, most bat-shit crazy video I've ever seen. You are my idol now.

Contemplating the Future of Music

2009-11-14T13:16:00.005-05:00

A really great discussion about the future of the music industry, passed on to me, that i am passing on to you. sure, it's a little long, but very engrossing:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/monitormix/2009/11/to_pay_or_not_to_pay_q_a_with.html

I'm glad I didn't get a job at a label, that's for sure. But it's true, the system's broken. BUT that doesn't mean there's no future. The live experience will always be something people will want (and pay for). And even if music-as-commodity comes to an end, and streaming music will replace it, vinyl has proved it has staying power.

Also, I really connected to part about loyal fans paying for anything an artist does. Lord knows, I may not have bought Ted Leo's albums, but I've paid for 15 shows, and own two of his t-shirts and a hoodie. Plus I bought his last album cause it came with a bonus EP. I'm a sucker for that shit! But only if it comes from him. AND I only got into him cause I didn't pay for his music in the first place. I don't see an ethical dilemma here. I feel like the actually music is just a marketing tool to get people hooked on a brand (the artist) for life.

Anyway, those are my thoughts on the matter.

Hurry Boy, It's Waiting There For You

2009-11-05T14:05:00.003-05:00

Because I've been watching a lot of Chuck recently, I have THIS SONG stuck in my head. Thanks Chuck.

Jeff and Lester are such a lovable odd couple. AND I LOVE Adam Baldwin's face at 1:33. PRICELESS!

There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever doooooo......

Oh, who I am I kidding? Everyone knows I can't resist terribly cheesy 80's Pop. So seriously, thank you Chuck.

It's Just Something in the Water Here

2009-11-04T19:10:00.007-05:00

My new favorite band, Awesome New Republic, has an awesome new video out!

The official "Alleycat" video comes about a week after the release of their awesome new LP Hearts. (sidetrack: you can add "awesome new" to just about anything and it'll be funny. After seeing ANR live for the second time, very late at night and slightly intoxicated, I put this theory to the test and IT WORKED. It was awesome new funny.)

You may remember, I posted a live-in-studio video of this song a few weeks back, but this is a more colorful, if even more home-video-looking, version of the song (and I don't mean that in a bad way, I actually find it quite endearing).

I think this is probably the most bouncing and infectious break-up song I've ever heard. Oh, FYI, those are projections of jellyfish. How cool, right?! And isn't that drummer a looker? Trust me, he's even cuter in person.

There is nothing I don't like about this band. Except track 8 on the album. SKIP.

Speaking of Weezer...

2009-11-03T14:57:00.006-05:00

Nothing warms my heart quite like watching someone mock Coldplay. And so Rivers Cuomo again has earned my good graces by ironically covering "Viva la Vida," complete with tracksuit, bells, and a cheat sheet with the lyrics. But, as Stereogum put it, he "clearly has Chris Martin's dramatic arm movements memorized."

Enjoy!

Oh Weezer, What Will You Think Of Next?

2009-11-03T00:47:00.004-05:00

Weezer. More like Super Hot and the Geeks, amiright? I'll take the next foot massage, Brian.

Gotta admit, the new tune is kinda catchy, and with a 50's themed video to boot! I mean, I can accept they've peaked, but i don't begrudge them making new music. Or fun, fake infomercials.

11.02.2006

2009-11-02T23:11:00.007-05:00

Let's have a flashback moment, shall we? all the way back..... to 2006.

On this day 3 years ago, me and my then-roommate, Angela, went to go see The Wrens and The Walkmen play a show at our then-school. I went cause I was getting really into music and heard that these bands were good, she went because we'd seen a guy dressed in a waffle costume handing out fliers the day before. Good reasons both, as far as I'm concerned.

We were in the front row for an electrifying (if crazed) performance by The Wrens.

As you can see, the frontman played a sawed-off bass and wore a parka. Then he started pulling kids onto the stage.
It turned into a amp-climbing, mic-screaming dance party (though nowhere near as epic as the one Broken Social Scene achieved in the same venue two years later).

We moved away from the craziness for The Walkmen, who were unfortunately less memorable. Though I remember the lead-singer being extremely adorable and tall and there being a crazy-looking, stripped-down piano.

As far as the music goes, I didn't really keep listening to either, but a track or two will make it onto the odd playlist. "Louisiana" and "The Rat," though very different, were Walkmen standouts in my mind. I heard their new album was great, but never got around to listening to it. Wrens standouts were easily "Everyone Choose Sides" and the demo of "Miss Me" which unfortunately became the less-good "Boys You Won't" on the album The Meadowlands.

So in honor of nostalgia, and the day before I met some of my best friends, here's the awesome Battleship themed video for "Everyone Choose Sides":

Be careful with those torpedoes! It's not just a game! It's real, old man!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T14:40:00.003-04:00

Halloween morning with my roommate some pumpkin donuts and this movie. perfection.

Needless to say, this song will be stuck in my head the rest of the day.

Dan Smith Isn't the Only One Who Will Teach You Guitar.

2009-10-27T20:17:00.004-04:00

Vampire Weekend, The National, and Sara (of her and Tegan) can too! That is, if you're only interested in playing one of their songs. I don't know about you, but I've waited FOREVER for the mysteries of "A-Punk" to be revealed. But seriously, snark aside, this is a pretty fun series that Qtv has created here.

Now, prepare yourself to be schooled by Ezra Koenig:

Isn't that last part - about messing up even when he wrote the part - adorable? It helps that everything he does is intrinsically adorable. Can I have him?

ANYWAY, after annoying my roommate for 20 minutes or so last night, I think I can tell you it's a tiny bit trickier than it looks. Guess I need to watch the video again....

Who Else Is Excited...

2009-10-24T16:01:00.001-04:00

... to see Pirate Radio?

Great cast. Great music. I'm pumped.

This Is Your Song...

2009-10-24T15:49:00.004-04:00

I remember this one episode of Gilmore Girls (bear with me) where Lane's boyfriend was naming every song their band wrote after a girl's name. He explained that songs named after girls got better radio play (or something, i don't really remember), like Roxanne, Leila, etc. Anyway, it's true that a lot of bands have songs that are girls names. And at some point every girl will probably have a song with their name in the title (or in the song).

Unfortunately, this is mine.....

Who would have guessed? And now I know that Madelyn rhymes with again. Thanks Hanson!

Let me just say, that if my 11 year old self knew about this, she should have been really mad. She hated Hanson. A lot. At this point, I guess it's not so bad. It's a little cute.

AT LEAST I still have "Apology Song."

Some moments from Glee

2009-10-22T16:47:00.005-04:00

I LOVE when Glee prominently features the sexy mohawked boy.

also, this song makes me think of the Red Sox.

"Sweet Caroline" from last night's Glee (starts at :27):

I mentioned this on twitter, but the lack of eyebrows on the lead guy (sitting in the back in this video) freaks me out sometimes.

And this has got to be my favorite musical number they've done yet (context: they're all high on uppers):

Oh how i love a good (and unexpected!) mash-up. And a break-dancing asian. You guys are watching this show, right?

a random note.

2009-10-19T01:17:00.006-04:00

Thanks to google analytics, I can know how most people find my blog. And I think it's funny that someone found it by googling "dinosaures kids brooklyn" (their misspell, not mine).

I think it's even funnier that someone found this blog by googling "ezra dinosaur laser."

COMING UP ON Dino in Brklyn: My thoughts on...
Muse's The Resistance
I'm Not There
Karen O and Where the Wild Things Are
The Awesome New Republic show I'm attending on Tuesday
and
My brief encounter with John Mayer

see you soon....

A-Ha Update

2009-10-15T13:13:00.004-04:00

Sad news 80's fans. After 25 years, A-Ha are breaking up. You may think to yourself, 'I didn't know they were still together.' And neither did I. BUT they were, and now they're not anymore. That is, until the end of their 2010 Farewell Tour. So, not broken up, but planning to breakup. It's like it's the summer after high school graduation and A-Ha are that couple that's going to colleges on different coasts; together for now, definitely over by Christmas.

But who knows? Didn't The Who have like 6 Farewell Tours? There's still hope!

Here's "Take on Me" Live (definitely post-80's):

Making that face is totally necessary to hit those high notes. Also, I think full band in leather pants is a good policy. I'm not so sure about Ms. Backupsinger's full-length vinyl dress, however.

My Vinyl Weekend

2009-10-13T14:37:00.005-04:00

What a successful weekend it was! If one measures the success of a weekend by how many awesome records one buys. And everyone does, so, again, what a successful weekend it was!

What with finances being tight, I haven't wiled away as many hours searching for records as I might like these days. But on Saturday, my roommate and I took a walk down to Bedford Avenue and the first stop was naturally Academy Records. I love this place. It's 95% vinyl and 100% awesome. They even have an adorable cat!

Anyway, I wasn't planning to buy. That is, of course, unless I found Combat Rock, the only Clash LP I didn't yet have (Cut the Crap doesn't count as a real Clash LP). And I did find it. Along with the single for Rock the Casbah. And then I found Thriller, and I HAD to get that too! (I also found a HILARIOUS record that I can't post about just yet, but I will soon, promise). My roommate came away with a $4 big band-y Frank Sinatra record.

Monday, finding ourselves with another day off, my roommate and I headed down the block to The Vortex, a great junk/thrift store across from the Montrose L station (after egg sandwiches at our favorite cafe, natch). I was actually looking for a nightstand, but we ended up looking through the vinyl crates anyway. I was pumped to come across Black Market Clash, a B-sides and rarities LP. And I was THRILLED when I found Hunting High and Low, by A-Ha featuring, you guessed it, "Take on Me." AND THUS RETURNS THE DINOSAUR IN BROOKLYN TAKE ON ME PROMISE. Missed it, didn't you? To finish off the story of my great vinyl weekend, my roommate found a copy of Boston's self-titled (with "More Than a Feeling") that I informed her if she didn't buy, I would. And she did.

Ch-ch-ch-check it OUT:

Why yes, I did buy Rock the Casbah almost exclusively for that amazing cover.

Anyway, I spent way too much much money, but dancing with my roommate to "Take on Me" or sitting here now listening to "Straight to Hell," I am way too much happy. So it's worth it.

On a related note, Insound is having another Wharehouse sale coming up on October 23-24, in case you also want to stock up on some vinyl (or CD's or free beer). Here's the flier with details.

Wow, That T-Shirt Makes You Look So Effortlessly Cool.

2009-10-12T17:21:00.012-04:00

I just found the coolest site.

Worn Free is a T-shirt company that reproduces shirts worn by rock stars. And we're talking Keith Moon, Joey Ramone, Debbie Harry type rock stars. The effortlessly cool ones. The ones you might actually want to dress like.

Each page has a photo of the musician with the shirt on, and the time and place they wore it. There are some obvious artists on this list (John Lennon, Kurt Cobain) but there are some surprises too. Like Iggy Pop. He didn't wear shirts often, and they have 4 different times that he did! wow! Also, Mohammad Ali makes the list. It's a little bit of a stretch, but I suppose we can consider him a metaphorical rock star.

I like Debbie Harry's "Camp Funtime" shirt:

Fun, right? Check out Keith Moon:

Jesus saves, indeed.

My favorite inclusion is Joe Strummer, obvs. Though the selection of t-shirts they chose to reproduce is underwhelming. Especially considering the Clash made so many interesting ones themselves. Reproducing a hand-made "Complete Control" T-shirt would be much more interesting. But I'll take what I can get.

What a great store idea. And Good News! Now through the 18th, all women's T-shirts on Worn Free are $25 (half-off). SWEET! Halloween, maybe? (or, i do have a birthday coming up...)

How could Rock Band be improved?

2009-10-08T13:28:00.005-04:00

LEGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOS!

IGGY! AS A LEGO! plus, this song is great.

They've got Bowie too!

Oh man, i can't wait! Apparently this isn't news, and trailers have been around for months, BUT this Bowie teaser was just released a few days ago.

Honestly, I thought this whole genre was heading toward the uncanny valley (did you see the Guitar Hero Kurt Cobain? creepy), but this is the BEST POSSIBLE solution to that problem. May the group playing of fake instruments never die. Amen.

The Band That Brought Me Back to Blogging

2009-10-07T19:18:00.006-04:00

I have a new favorite band. And I just had to tell you about it. Their name? Awesome New Republic.

[in the interest of full disclosure, before I begin, I should first say that the PR firm I'm interning for represents this band. Also, I know my supervisor has a google alert on the phrase 'Awesome New Republic' (Hi Andy!). But rest assured, I'm writing about them from a place of pure, unadulterated love, and nothing else. MOVING ON!]

So it's been awhile since I wrote about anything. And it's been a combination of a truly soul-crushing job search and a post-job search i'm-working-two-jobs-and-the-band-has-started-up-again schedule. But it's also been because, as I tweeted to a friend a few weeks ago, I haven't found anything that really excited me in awhile. Since my Clash phase was plateauing to an appropriate (and not crazed) level of appreciation, and I can't expect a new Pharmacists album till the Spring, I was stuck in a playlist of a few exciting tracks that quickly wore themselves out.

Enter Awesome New Republic.

The Miami duo are not only masters of the dance-floor beat but true musicians who experiment with laptops and synthetic sounds as well as interesting instruments and various styles. And they are able to do this without having strained vocals or an at times alienating weirdness (I'm looking at you MGMT!), or without having substance-less lyrics or a too serious attitude.

Their style seems to be in interesting juxstapositions. Take the introduction of their EP Rational Geographic, Vol. I, "National Insecurity/Rotary Clone." The first track is a brief ragtimey piano tune that abruptly transitions synth-driven, dance-floor burning track, complete with a spoken, auto-tuned shout of their own name, "A. N. R."And it works. OR take the very next track, "Birthday," a standard dance tune about falling in lust in a club. But it's sung entirely from the girl's perspective (sexy falsetto included). I mean, they describe themselves as Punk/Soul/R&B, things that you would never think would go together, but magically, in them, do.

Should I take a moment to mention that I'm completely in love with Michael John Hancock's voice? I want to take it out behind the middle school and get it pregnant, so to speak.

So, being familiar with their three most recent recordings, Rational Geographic, Vol. I & II, and the soon-to-be-released full-length Hearts, it's REALLY HARD to pick my favorite tracks. But here we go:

"Digital World"
(appears on both Rational Geographic, Vol. I and Hearts)

Slow-building, thought-provoking, and stick-in-your-head-worthy. Great example of what they do, and an obvious stand-out among their tracks.

"Dances When"
(but ONLY the version on RG, I NOT the version they re-recorded for Hearts (bad decision, boys...))

I can't understand a word, but damn if I don't sing along.

"Alleycat"
(lead single off Hearts)

Upbeat song about a hot-and-cold relationship is extremely infectious.

"Wheels No Engine"
(Hearts)
I love how they sing about riding their bikes (see also: "Magic City" on RG I). It's adorable. Plus this song is gorgeous (though it did have to grow on me a little). The breakdown toward the end gets me every time. I won't post it, cause the album hasn't come out yet, but when it does...

"Florida"
(and pretty much the entire rest of Rational Geographic, Vol. II)

Epic. and awesome. The entire EP is so cohesive. Thematically and musically. I love it.

So there you have it. My new faves. What I've been listening to non-stop. A few weeks ago, RG I & II were available for free from their website, www.anrmiami.com, but I don't see that they are anymore, which is sad for everyone.

so.... WHO'S COMING WITH WITH ME TO SEE THEM DURING CMJ???

Winter's cold's too much to handle, indeed.

2009-10-05T20:05:00.004-04:00

Has everyone heard the new Vampire Weekend?

Balaclava's a funny word. and they do indeed make you look psychotic.

"Horchata" is exactly what one might expect (read: want) from Vampire Weekend. After a few listens, here's thinking good thoughts for Contra.

via Paste.

Who is Julian Plenti?

2009-08-12T14:08:00.006-04:00

When a front man goes solo, it's no surprise when he sounds just like the band he fronts.

But luckily for Paul Banks, he fronts a really good band. All together, sounding like Interpol isn't a bad thing.

So with Paul's alter ego Julian Plenti, and the album, Julian Plenti is... Skyscraper, we get the same affected vocals, the same opaque and sexual lyrics, the same driving rhythm section. The lead single "Games for Days" is dark, but with a straight-forward pop/rock construction and a shout-along chorus. This track definitely feels less sharp-dressed and drilled than Interpol. I mean, I can imagine actually dancing to it (which is saying something!). It sounds like what Our Love to Admire was trying to be. "Fun that We Have" sounds like it could be straight off Antics, but with some electronic flair. It's repetitive and building in a good way.

I am... fan. I think. I should really hear the rest of the album before I judge.

Check out the hot video for "Games for Days."

I love his hats. And his general high level of attractiveness. You may also recognize Metric's Emily Haines as the leading lady? No? It's ok, neither did I.

You can snag the Mp3 of "Games for Days" over at Stereogum.

I clearly watch too much TV...

2009-08-06T23:28:00.004-04:00

... cause that's where I've been getting all my new music recently.

You've doubtless seen this fabulous Bacardi mojito ad:

He's walking through every era's parties! How cool! But what caught my attention even more was the rocking piano jam that every era is dancing too.

Turns out it's Matt and Kim's "Daylight," and it's my new favorite song. It's the only song of theirs I know so far, but it has encouraged me to want to explore their work. And let me tell you, I could listen to this song over and over. It's like happiness with a great beat and killer riff. Pop perfection.

Here's the video for the tune in its entirety. It's very "this is our lives as a cute couple! we play music i weird places! we smile a lot!", which is a bit obnoxious, but the song itself saves it from being too sugar-sweet.

side note: I was at Insound's warehouse sale last thursday and after picking a sweet copy of The Clash Live at Shea Stadium on vinyl, i checked out the free-with-purchase bin. Not only did I find a poster of a robot walking through the country shooting laser beams out of its eyes, but there was a 7" single of this very song! sweet!

Damn you, Monk!

2009-07-27T16:08:00.004-04:00

USA Network has done it again. Their incessant advertising for the last season of Monk hasn't made me any more interested in the show, but it has interested me in the Keane song they've used in the ads. "Time to Go" is a B-side on "The Lovers Are Losing" single, and on the Deluxe edition of Spiralling only on iTunes. And for the life of me, I can't find an mp3 to download anywhere on the interwebs.

Enter youtube:

Unlike most of their new album, this one is simple and deconstructed. Piano, acoustic guitar, and Tom Chaplin's pure vocals. And I think it's that simplicity that makes it so lovely and memorable. Like a less-rocking, but less sentimental, "Closing Time," that'll get stuck in your head just as easily.

Now if only Monk would stop using it, so I could enjoy it in peace.

Some Musics of My Summer (so far)

2009-07-09T14:29:00.005-04:00

I find that my summers are often defined by my tunes. Last summer, for me, was all Voxtrot and Someone Still Loves You, Boris Yeltsin. I haven't found that one defining sound yet, but there are some tunes that I'm enjoying.

1. Crocodiles
Their trendy sound is at times a little too much, but I really like a couple tracks."I Wanna Kill" constantly gets stuck in my head, and is much more pleasant and summery-light than the title suggests. "Neon Jesus" is another gem, and the video is kinda sick!

You can have your Passion Pit, I'll take Crocodiles.

2. "Two Weeks"
Grizzly Bear is everywhere these days, what with the new album. And honestly, I'm not that into them, even after seeing them. Granted, their entire performance was wiped from my memory by be so thoroughly rocked by The National. So maybe it's not fair to judge yet.

Two Weeks

But I am definitely a fan of this track (even if the vid is less than inspiring until the 3:00 mark). I think it's the chunky piano and the smooth harmonies. It makes me want to be on a roof drinking wine and watching the sun set over Manhattan.

You can find an mp3 of this track almost anywhere. if you can't, you're not trying.

3. Discovery
... is bound to be the trendy thing this summer. I mean, memebers of Vampire Weekend and Ra Ra Riot teaming up? Hipsters everywhere are wetting themselves. Most of it is ignorable. HOWEVER, "Carby (feat. Ezra Koenig)" is immensely fun and engaging (and I promise that's not just cause I'm in everlasting love with Ezra Koenig).

LOVE IT. I'm also going to highly recommend "Swing Tree" (it's SOOO summer) and "I Want You Back," yes, the Jackson 5 "I Want You Back," but a very unique take.

4. "I Fought the Law"
Classic.

Unfortunately, being so busy has inhibited my discovering new music, but I'll share as I find it....

PEACEEEEE.

The Decemberists cover Heart and it's SICK

2009-06-02T21:28:00.007-04:00

"Crazy on You" is one of my favorite Guitar Hero 2 jams, and the Decemberists rock so hard on it, thanks in no small part to vocal powers Shara Worden and Becky Stark (but mainly Shara Worden). This was live in St. Louis, and pretty great for a fan vid. CHECK IT!

Absolutely killer.

Side note: when I say Shara with My Brightest Diamond, I was less than impressed, but her work with the Decemberists has been stellar! Maybe it all happened when she cut her hair.

(via Stereogum)

getting my life together

2009-05-22T20:40:00.004-04:00

I'll be back on track soon, I promise.

Things to look forward to? A few interesting things I came across while looking for an mp3 of "Single Ladies," an interesting Harry Potter find (relevant, I promise!), and probably more Clash (I did just watch Joe Strummer: The Future Is Unwritten and am in the middle of reading A Riot of Our Own: Night and Day with The Clash, so, you know)

For your enjoyment, a framed poster of Asia!

It was the heeeeeeeeeeat of the moment...

new favorite song

2009-05-17T12:50:00.001-04:00

i wish i could have seen them live....

oh, brandon flowers...

2009-05-06T22:56:00.003-04:00

I can't decide if this is horrible or amazing. both? My favorite part is their trying to sing without knowing any of the words. And the end note OF COURSE.

Law & Order: Hipster Intent

2009-04-28T19:17:00.004-04:00

How do you know a trend is played? It's featured on Law & Order.

Turns out Jeff "The Genius" Goldblum's first episode as a CI regular is about the death of a Williamsburg hipster. Seriously. They actually use the word hipster in the episode description (titled "Rock Star," by the way).

Things I learned about my neighbors and neighborhood by watching Law & Order: CI (in real time):

Hipsters are rich, white, and racist
They live in loft communes
Williamsburg is where "worlds collide," what with all the Jews and "Urban Blacks" and Musicians
Williamsburg is a slum
The difference between Rappers and MCs (see below!)
Every hipster is in a band
and has bedbugs
and go to Spelling Bees? "Nostalgia and beer. Who can resist?" (ok, I have to give L&O that one, that actually sounds like real hipsters)
It is extremely hard to get gigs as a hipster band
Girls can drum
No-name hipster bands magically have audiences
Everyone wants to be a rock star (ok, that one's true too)
JEFF GOLDBLUM PLAYS A MEAN PIANO (holla!)
Hipsters kill to get spots in hip bands
A girl who paints canvases with her own body fluids! (that sounds like a hipster too)
Bed bug epidemic. ew.
You have to be "ready" to play clubs in the East Village
All 20-year old girls sleep around
Developers are trying to push out the artists to build condos (true story!)
OMG! that's Albert Hammond Jr's (and Medium Cool's) guitarist Marc Philippe Eskenazi! What's he doing on Law & Order? as the bassist?
scarves and leather are totes in.
"He's gonna be bigger than Brooklyn"
Near McCarren Park is a "dangerous neighborhood"
No one insults Bo Diddley and gets away with it! Irreverant kids!
The Grammy's are irrellevant (true)
Don't trust aging "rock stars." (oh, i get it....)

Also, how dare that redhead doubt Jeff "The Genius" Goldblum's brilliancy, even for a second!

Despite the ridiculous premise, JGold is AMAZING. Tivo it if you get a chance.

Here's a taste (courtesy of Videogum):

Liveblogging Decemberists on Colbert

2009-04-27T23:50:00.020-04:00

11:50 Colbert calls the Hazards of Love a list of STD's set to music. this will be fun

11:51 Starts with the personal questions I see, might as well just ask if they're getting any... Just Colin and Chris, interesting....

11:52 Very little love for Portland. Ha! Guitarmageddon. Remember that? What a great title.

11:53 Colin's bangs are so much cuter than mine. sigh. Sideburns joke! But no mention of Funk's near-handlebar.

11:56 Who's that dude?

11:57 OH! they're all there, but only Colin and Chris get to talk. I see how it is.

11:58 I don't know which song this is. I'm embarrassed of myself. I was hoping for "The Rake's Song." .... But this is nice.

11:59 I love Nate's blue Fender Jazz Bass.

12:00 Shara Worden, you look so different from the last time I saw you. Where's the hippie hair and peasant dress? but damn, she is wailing.

12:01 ...And Becky Stark gets to shake a tambourine. ... I swear Stephen built that stage to have more musical guests. I love it.

Hm, best song choice? Not sure. But that interview was adorably awkward.

I'll post the video when I have it!

UPDATE: vids vids vids.

The Interview.

The Colbert Report

Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

The Decemberists

colbertnation.com

Colbert Report Full Episodes

Political Humor

Gay Marriage Commercial

The Song. "The Wanting Comes in Waves."

The Colbert Report

Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

The Decemberists - The Wanting Comes in Waves

colbertnation.com

Colbert Report Full Episodes

Political Humor

Gay Marriage Commercial

BONUS! Colin's Twitter about the event:

colinmeloy Would've tweeted more from the show but there was a cell lock-down in the studio. Think Stephen was afraid I'd mobilize my twitter legion.

new most played song

2009-04-26T22:22:00.003-04:00

I don't need to re-recount my itunes reset. But that does naturally mean that I have a new Most Played list. What is my new #1 after about 6 weeks, you might wonder? Ok. You don't care. But I'm going to tell you anyway!

So, this little ditty was featured on the Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist soundtrack. I never saw the film, which is probably why I missed this song when it first came out. I found it recently, and immediately couldn't stop listening to it.

It's every wonderful thing you might expect from VW. Catchy, summery, self-referential. With great strings. I think it's my favorite Vampire Weekend song. (and i kind of like them a lot).

Also, have you heard they're recording a new album? like, right now. They're making a concerted effort to make somethign new and different. They seem to be aware that if they release another album with the same sound there will be ALL SORTS of new backlash. Those Ivy League degrees weren't for nothin'.

High-larious

2009-04-22T19:43:00.005-04:00

Ever wonder what the news would be like T-Pain style?

Who knew Katie Couric was such a great singer? "Oh snap! How fast?" Fab. U. Lous.

Thanks so much to Emily for bringing this to my attention!

Is Passion Pit the new Vampire Weekend?

2009-04-22T18:23:00.008-04:00

I certainly hope not. I much prefer boat shoes and African beats.

However, the CONCEPT for the video of "The Reeling," the first single off their as-yet-unreleased debut Manners, is pretty cool. I want to go to a party like that!

But seriously, it's kind of better with the sound off.

I'm not being mean. I tried to listen to their Chunk of Change EP and couldn't get through it. The synths/electronics are beyond abrasive, they're painful. They literally hurt my ears. Like, Dear Passion Pit, Turn down the fucking treble, you're making my ears bleed, love, madelyn.

I'm not saying the songs are bad. The melodies are great! I even like Michael Angelakos' screechy falsetto. But I just can't listen to their music the way it is.

Remixed, however, totally different story! Listen to The Knocks' remix of "Sleepyhead" and you will understand what I mean. UH-mazing. Compared to the original, no contest.

times like these need musics like this

2009-04-21T21:46:00.005-04:00

Feel-good music is the best, isn't it?

Fellow NYU senior Nyle is a talented rapper and musician who, with "Let the Beat Build" has created an infectious, spirited, and inspiring tune. And an equally engaging video. Love the mustachioed man at the beginning. And damn can those ladies sing, right?

Nyle "Let The Beat Build" from Nyle on Vimeo.

also, he just so happens to be a former roommate of one of my good friends, and I'm embarrassed to admit that I recently skipped his set when he was performing at the same show with The Americans and Samuel. Sorry Nyle! After seeing this, I definitely won't do it again.

New Obsession, continued

2009-04-21T20:28:00.005-04:00

Honestly, Yeasayer is way hipper than the music I usually listen to. I mean, their album was Pitchfork's "Best New Music" for weeks when it came out. I mean, seriously, they are from Brooklyn and describe themselves as "Middle Eastern-psych-snap-gospel." Somebody kill me now, please. Gross.

BUT THIS TRACK IS INCREDIBLE.

The only reason I listened to it was because I had been listening to Yeah Yeah Yeahs and just let my itunes continue to play. What just happened to come on was Yeasayer's contribution to the Dark Was the Night compilation, "Tightrope." It think I've already listened to it about 12 times today. And that's a conservative guess.

Here's a video of them performing the song. Slightly different than the studio version, but still delectable. (don't let the disgusting hipster outfits turn you off. it's pretty bad. like, downright stereotypical.)

It was raining when I first heard this song. And I think that almost describes it perfectly. It's music to listen to the rain with. Gorgeous, contemplative, dreamy. Like the tribal Broadcast 2000. The more rocking Beirut. With monkey sounds. That's it! It's rain forest music. And I mean that in the best possible way. Also, I'm really in love with Chris Keating's vocal delivery; he doesn't settle for the straightforward and really plays with what he singing, the "never mind" bit is my fave.

After the first couple listens I noticed the first few lines... "So you're wishing that you never did all the embarrassing things you've done. And you're wishing you could make it right. And you're wishing you could stay the night." Seriously. Story of my life. And he's right, "wishing never solved a problem."

NEW THEME SONG TO MY LIFE.

New Obsession

2009-04-20T23:54:00.003-04:00

Can't stop listening to Yeasayer's "Tightrope." More on this later.

late-night ruminations

2009-04-20T02:28:00.004-04:00

It's funny how music can be so associative. The first bars of Voxtrot's "Fast Asleep" mentally put me in last June, walking through Peter Cooper Village, smelling the summer, feeling... whatever it was i was feeling back then. I listened to Mothers, Sisters, Daughters, & Wives and Raised by Wolves back-to-back almost exclusively for weeks. The association is so strong, I almost can't stand it. I probably could break it if I really tried, but I don't know if I want to. It's kind of cool that I have an instant time machine of sorts. But it's also a little sad that I can't listen to these songs without the association. Like, they have a meaning now and they can't mean anything else. They're frozen in the past, they can't just be what they are. Then again, is that really better? Should songs be free of association? No. But they should perhaps not be saturated in association.

God, this is starting to sound like my "Art of Listening" class. I apologize.

Forget about this. Go see Crank 2.

Side note: I know I should be sleeping at this hour instead of philosophizing, but at least it's better than my last two nights in which, instead of sleeping, I was either thinking I was dying from heart palpitations or embarrassing myself on facebook. This is more public, but considerably better for my health.

Go see Crank: High Voltage

2009-04-19T20:48:00.007-04:00

this is a music blog, true (and, admittedly, one i have been slacking on). HOWEVER, i enjoy movies as well. My friends and I have been spending the semester watching ridiculous action flicks (including a Valentine's Day Transporter double feature). So naturally, the release of Crank: High Voltage was going to be an exciting event. Not only have I recently become infatuated with Jason Statham, but by the looks of it, it was going to be an entertaining and ridiculous gore-fest.

And man, was I right. Do yourself a favor, GO SEE IT. The gratuitous violence, sex, and surrealism will do you some good.

Plus it features REO Speedwagon's "Keep on Lovin' You" and a cameo by a Spice Girl!

While listening, just imagine Jason Statham making out with a topless Amy Smart, shocking himself, then shooting some people and you've pretty much got it.

He won't stop till somebody stops him...

2009-04-14T17:13:00.003-04:00

So I've been spending most of my afternoon watching Human Giant. In the 4th (?) episode is one of my favorite sketches ever (though the version on the DVD is a little different), and I'd totally forgotten how much I love it. I think they really nail the indie music culture, particularly the Pitchfork bit. Plus Ted Leo's in it.

"Yeah well, I got gold records on my wall... and blood on my hands." Now, the real question is, how do I get a job like that?

rock me, sexy earth

2009-04-13T22:13:00.004-04:00

Lindsay at Videogum is totally right, Paul Rudd can sing and dance on Sesame Street dressed as the planet Earth and still be sexy.

Yes, Paul, the Earth does rock.

Notice how he's totally channeling Elvis. I love it.

Set your Tivo!

2009-04-13T18:40:00.002-04:00

The Decemberists are returning to The Colbert Report on April 27th. Neat-o.

Someone Still Loves You, Boris Yeltsin @ The Mercury Lounge

2009-04-11T17:35:00.005-04:00

and Drew Danburry too.

I haven't been going to shows lately. With the exception of seeing Samuel play a few clubs (once with the always fun Postelles), the last show I went to was Indie Rock Karaoke Returns Again with Ted Leo and the Pharmacists hosted by Andrew W.K. and that was in December. SO, needless to say, I was looking forward to going to see a band I don't personally know in a proper music venue.

Two word review:
SO FUN.

More word review:
I honestly didn't know what to expect from Someone Still Loves You, Boris Yeltsin live. Their albums aren't the rockingest, so would their show be? I decided to set my expectations low. That's not to say I don't really like them. Pershing was the album of (the second half of) my summer. "Think I Wanna Die" was my most-played song ever. But still, I hate to get my hopes up and be let down.

But seriosuly, it rocked. I danced. I sang along. I shouted "Hey" along with them. I chatted with equally enthusiatic fans. They had a ton of energy and it was a blast.

Their set was a little too short in my opinion, but it included most everything I wanted to hear. "Pangea" and "Oregon Girl" kicked it off, and an amazing "Modern Mystery" closed it out (pre-encore). They were fun to watch, and very personable. Post-encore they threw their instruments and jumped all over the drum kit. It's good to watch a bad that has fun with what they do.

By far the most fun to watch was Phil, who drummed for most of the set but picked up a guitar and the mic toward the end. When he was drumming, he was ON FIRE. So amazingly energetic. And I am constantly impressed by anyone who can drum and sing at the same time (even you, youngest Jonas). Maybe the energy wasn't all natural though... my favorite part of the night was this exchange between him and most-of-the-time lead singer/guitarist and sometimes bassist, John:

John: Is that a Red Bull?

Phil: Yes.

John: How many have you had?

Phil: Four.

John: (pause) That's not even a joke, is it?

Phil: No.

John: What's your record?

Phil: Six.

John: Was that in Cleveland?

Phil: Yes.

John: You need six Red Bulls for Cleveland.

Anyway... they were great. I went from generally liking them to really loving them in one night. This is why I love live music.

And a note on Drew Danburry: He was delightful. I love when an opener is charismatic enough to entertain a group of people who doesn't know who he is. He even got me singing along! And his bassist wore his bass so high he looked like he was straight out of 1952. It was adorable.

For your viewing pleasure, the obviously low budget (and obviously AWESOME) video about dueling paper boys (and aliens!) for Pershing standout "Modern Mystery." New love-of-my-life Phil is in the pink (orange?) wayfarers.

The "Think I Wanna Die" video (that I posted here) was what made me first like them, but this one might just be better. I really like the fact that that the song was live recorded especially for the video. I like the feel of it.

I imagine that they would be a very fun bunch to hang out with.

This is why I have a "Take on Me" google alert

2009-04-10T16:53:00.003-04:00

because otherwise I would miss out on FABULOUS things, like this...

A ToM cover by Shiny and the Spoon. It's quite beautiful. And probably the most original one I've heard so far, and that's really saying something. I think you'll like it, cause I mean, who doesn't love a good ukulele?

thanks to The Smiths' Occasional Blog for originally posting about this.

the joys of twitter

2009-04-08T22:49:00.002-04:00

colinmeloy: In the event of society's collapse, I hope I can count on you all to serve as my army. @johncmayer will no doubt be a powerful rival clan.

If those are my choices, i choose Colin.

The Ocarina of Rhyme

2009-04-07T21:50:00.005-04:00

A Hip-Hop/Zelda mash-up mixtape. BRILLIANT!

Producers Team Teamwork took the themes from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and layered on the beats and rhyming of such artists as Clipse, Jay-Z, Common, Aesop Rock, and Spank Rock (among others).

And it's pretty awesome on many levels. But I think I mostly like it because I have such strong feelings and childhood associations with Ocarina.

The opening track featuring Clipse/The Lost Woods theme is a great one to start with. But track 2 featuring Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg/Getting Treasure, while clever, is not as enjoyable. The Jay-Z/Meeting the Owl track, on the other hand is truly amazing. I could probably listen to it all day, and I'm not a hip-hop fan, so that's really saying something. Pimp C, Li'l Keke, & P.O.P./Hyrule Field has its moments, especially the great chorus. The Common/Hyrule Market track is good, but not as good as it should be, you know? Aesop Rock/Goron Village, on the other hand, is AWESOME! As is the Edan/Battle track that follows. But MF Doom/Horse Race is kind of cute? ultimately, a little too kitschy for my taste. And the Spank Rock/Zora's Domain and Slim Thug & Mike Jones/Fairy's Fountain are nice, if mellow, way to take us out.

Here are my favorite 3 tracks: Clipse, Jay-Z, and Aesop Rock.

You can listen to the whole thing over on 8tracks, and you can download it here.

Team Teamwork also have a sweet Okkervil River mash-up over on their myspace.

Even More Hutchtastic!

2009-04-07T17:57:00.003-04:00

Remember when I wrote about The Thermals' new single "Now We Can See" off the their album of the same name (out today!)?

Well that catchy tune of theirs now has a video!

Not entirely unexpected, they tend to like rocking out in a room for their videos. But Hutch is in fine form (love the adorable dancing), and the song is fun. So rock on.

You can snag an mp3 of the song over on Stereogum.

Video Flashback: Punk

2009-04-06T20:14:00.004-04:00

The fruits of my labor; or, what I found while researching my presentation on punk.

Notice how Iggy alienates his audience.... the blood! such style! you gotta love a band that can tell you to fuck off and still rock your shit.

And the Clash... god, if i was a teenage girl in '83 (instead of not alive) I would have been so in love with Joe Strummer. He's so dreamy. Like, he just doesn't give a fuck what you think. How cool is that?

Now THAT is what it means to be a fucking rock band.

oh baby. i would nail him so fast...

Remix time!

2009-04-02T20:13:00.005-04:00

A brand new remix of "Take on Me," who would have guessed?

This one's by the Brazilian producing duo The Twelves. Their other remixes are of modern acts like MIA, Black Kids, The Virgins, etc. According to electronic rumors, a few artists have recently remixed ToM for a Norwegian Chrysler promotion. What a great idea! This is the first one I've come across, and it's making its way round the interwebs right now.

When I first listened to it I didn't think it was anything spectacular. Honestly though, the more I hear it, the more I like it. It's fun and fresh. It retains the original's spirit while putting a totally modern spin on it.

Totally worth a listen, and inclusion on your next party playlist. Enjoy!

The Twelves also have a great remix of Black Kids' "I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance With You" over on their myspace.

Say what you want about Nine Inch Nails...

2009-04-01T17:25:00.006-04:00

... but this shit is funny.

Check out the track list! Lolz. Good to know that Trent has a sense of humor.

EDIT: an incredible (fake) review of (fake) Strobe Light can be found at onethirtybpm.com. I particularly liked this bit:

The title of “Feel Like Being Dead Again” is a nod to Lil Wayne’s classic codeine ode “I Feel Like Dying,” and features Reznor free-associating over an inspired sample of A-ha’s “Take On Me.”

can you imagine? I might actually become a NIN fan if he made a song like this. Thanks again Google alert!

In defense of Keane

2009-03-31T19:26:00.011-04:00

So those ubiquitous In Plain Sight commercials have reminded me how much I liked Keane back in the day. (on second thought, maybe it's only ubiquitous because of the amount of Law & Order: SVU that I watch on USA. but i digress).

The song is "Everybody's Changing," and it's interesting that they're using it now, since it's about 5 years old and was never a single. But those factors combined actually make it pretty fresh sounding, in the way that only a song that you used to love but haven't heard in years can. But the question I constantly have to ask myself with these guys is do I like them because I used to love them, or because they make good music? Because, honestly, it's not very hip to like them. (honestly, who reading this isn't a little skeptical right now?).

I'm just going to say it: I LIKE KEANE.

And I'll tell you why.

I took the time to listen to them. I did not let "Somewhere Only We Know" inform my entire opinion. It was a hit, and was branded "adult contemporary" (whatever the fuck that means) and they were often mentioned in the same breath as Coldplay (fuck Coldplay). And if you only listen to that song, it makes sense. But the rest of 2004's Hopes and Fears goes in more than one direction. It's piano driven rock, sure, but it gets fast paced and even experimental and dark toward the end.

And unlike Coldplay, there next album did not replicate their earlier sound. 2006's Under the Iron Sea is an extremely cohesive and interesting album. It might even be considered a concept album, complete with a thematic instrumental track half-way through. Again, the different tracks feature different things, from Tim Rice-Oxley playing his piano through a vintage guitar petal on "Is It Any Wonder?" to Richard Hughes playing a backwards beat (there's no other way to describe it) on "Atlantic," all while Tom Chaplin pushes and explores his vocal range (aside: this band is a great example of why all songwriters should have the best possible vocalist for their songs. sometimes it's better if you don't sing it yourself).

And again, 2008's Perfect Symmetry saw them finding a new sound. And I think they quite successfully explore synths and more dance-ready tunes (see my synthtastic playlist). Not to say the whole album is like that. I can't comment extensively on this album, however, since I don't know it as intimately as I do the other two.

I don't mean to say they don't have there missteps. There are songs I can't stand, but on the whole, I think they get it right, particularly on Under the Iron Sea which so brilliantly uses the album as a form instead of just a collection of songs.

I mean, they're a power trio! and adorably British! I am unashamed to love them.

The song that set off this rant (live! in a stadium! post-rehab!):

i mean, have you ever seen someone rock out so hard at a piano? i didn't think so.

(this post is dedicated to brittaney with whom i will always be united in keane love)

But is it worth it?

2009-03-30T21:13:00.004-04:00

I... kind of want to go to All Points West?

If I buy early it's only $199. But I don't really care about the 3 big headliners. Is wanting to see 11 of the other bands and all the comedians really worth it?

or should I just fuck it and go to Bonnaroo?

Breaking Form

2009-03-29T22:11:00.004-04:00

This has little to nothing to do with music, but I have interests that are broad and diverse, and I came across something the other day that I really enjoyed, and thought you might enjoy, and since I spent part of my day at Buffalo Exchange (the clothing store they go to, just wait you'll see), and since I love any and everything that David Wain does especially if it involves Paul Rudd (and the best things do), here is an episode from David Wain's web series "Wainy Days" that parodies The Pickup Artist, vh1's terrible "reality series" which is actually amazingly entertaining if you just let go of any and all respect you every had for any human being. whoo. ok let's go.

Do I know comedy, or do I know comedy?

some friendly advice

2009-03-29T20:30:00.002-04:00

Make a Genius playlist using Peter Gabriel's "Solsbury Hill."

YOU'RE WELCOME.

I mean... this is pretty much THE bike riding song, am I right? Peter Gabriel does what he wants.

(thanks to Ryan for pointing out the video)

Video Flashback: Will Smith

2009-03-29T17:26:00.004-04:00

Last night, full on sushi and lazily watching an old SNL, the topic of Will Smith came up among my friends and I. After seeing a trailer for the DVD release of Seven Pounds we began to lament the fact that Will Smith seemed to no longer do tie-in music videos with his films. (haha, imagine what a Seven Pounds tie-in would have been like? Pretty ridiculous. But I Am Legend? A video for that could have been amazing!)

Anyway, even though it is widely agreed upon that Men in Black is a much better movie than Wild Wild West, there was some disagreement as to which was the better song. Now that is something worth discussing. Both songs tell the story of their respective movie's plot, both sample famous melodies ("Forget Me Nots" and "I Wish"), and both feature a charismatic, costumed Frsh Prince. But which is superior?

Let's refresh our memories:

"It's the MIB's. Here come the MIB's." Ha. I love it. I remember quite well that this video comes after the credits on the VHS tape. Also, I think I know about 95% of the lyrics and could sing back the whole song without much prompting. And that dance breakdown with the alien? Genius.

Next!

This video comes with its own storyline. And the song itself is arguably more catchy (as is the source material). AND it features Cisco of "The Thong Song" fame! But unlike with "Men in Black," which makes me want to watch the movie, "Wild Wild West" just reminds me how good the movie should have been and wasn't.

But we're comparing videos here. And "Wild Wild West" not only features the ever-gorgeous Selma Hayek, but there are cameos by Stevie Wonder (we love Stevie) and CARLTON! (at 3:06 is you missed him). Ultimately though, I don't like the separate storyline. And though Will Smith makes a hot cowboy, nothing beats the sharp suit and Ray Bans.

If I HAVE to choose, though both are fabulous, my heart belongs to "Men in Black."

Which is better? Leave your vote in the comments.

All the Single...what?!

2009-03-27T19:37:00.005-04:00

I agree with Gabe at Videogum: this is the worst.

I don't even know where to start with this? It's not cute and tongue-in-cheek, it's just straight-up wrong. And every time you think it's bad, it just gets worse. Most importantly, WHO LET THESE PEOPLE INTO YALE??

Dear Bono,

2009-03-26T22:54:00.002-04:00

It's not OK to wear eyeliner. It may have been cute when Brandon Flowers did it, but even he got too old for it. Please put the sunglasses back on. It's for your own good.

Your friend,

madelyn

P.S. in case you forgot what it looks like...

(photos of U2's glamtastic photo shoot with SPIN is here)

Goodbye, Blender.

2009-03-26T21:15:00.007-04:00

The closest I've ever been to being featured in a magazine was when Blender came to [insert name of very famous tv show here] Camp, where I was a counselor. I helped the very cute photographers take pictures of the kids (I was their hype-man). And they almost took a picture of me with a camper, but they missed the moment, and I made a jokey quip about how I was just dying to be featured in the Blender magazine. They told me they were freelancers, and then we all laughed. So that's how I almost got into the issue of Blender with Kanye on the cover. It's sitting on my bookshelf right now.

Sorry about the lame story. But I am kind of sad that a major music magazine has died, even one that's sometimes the butt of jokes.

Colin Meloy's thoughts via his twitter: Goodbye, Blender mag. Thanks for our first-ever national review, in which you called me "donkey-voiced."

oh Blender, you may be missed.

Take on Me to Wonderwall

2009-03-26T20:15:00.008-04:00

I think this may be the best thing the "Take on Me" promise has turned up so far.

You wouldn't expect a mash-up of "Take on Me" and "Wonderwall' to work, but it does. It really really does. (Though, some of my friends may think otherwise, KYLE).

Don't let the terrible midi drums at the start turn you off, if you keep listening, you shall be rewarded.

The layers are fantastic. I love when the cellos come in. And the competing choruses blend so well. I don't even know what to write, it leaves me bewildered in a really fantastic way.

cause above all, I CAN'T BELIEVE IT WORKS! Seriously, who would think to put these songs together? Who knew it would work so well??

I just wish the electronic drums weren't so bad, otherwise it could be truly majestic. As it is, it's merely golden wonderment.

holy crap!

2009-03-24T23:06:00.001-04:00

Spinal Tap is playing a show?! in new york in may?

dear god, i want to go to there.

Broadcast 2000

2009-03-24T19:50:00.006-04:00

I love when my "Take on Me" google alert lead me to strange and wonderful things. First, it was the Muse mash-ups (and my subsequent love of "Starlight") and now this.

Should I explain? Apparently these dudes (well, this one dude, Joe Steer, and his live band) have been known to play "Take on Me" during their live show. According to the review that my google alert alerted me to, Joe handles the challenging vocals of ToM with ease. I wish I could find it, but there appears to be no recording.

But that's ok! That same review also said that they sound nothing like their name, Broadcast 2000, might make you think (which to me could either be some sort of electronic collective or a pop-punk band on Drive-Thru Records (no offense Evan!)). I looked into it, and I really dig what I hear.

They play dreamy, contemplative folk-pop. with a glockenspeil. Like Beirut meets Noah and the Whale. They hail from the UK and have only one release to date, 2008's Building Block (either a long EP, or a mini-album, whichever way you want to look at it). BUT you know their music without realizing it. Their song "Run" is featured in the macbook-is-the-greenest commercial.

Anyway, having heard most of their tunes, I can definitely say that "Get Up and Go" is the stand-out track. Check it ouuuuuut:

I can't even describe this song. It has an ethereal quality. It's another one of those lying-under-the-stars songs, but it's not as pure an simple all that either. It's gorgeous, light, and twinkling but with a lingering darkness. I can't explain what it is about it that I love so much, and it's driving me a little bit crazy. I mean, it's haunting.

So, this is definitely a band I'm going to be keeping tabs on. I don't expect "Get Up and Go" to be leaving my head anytime soon, anyway. Plus Joe Steer is HOT. Check him out:

He has so many feelings. oh baby.

I love you, Paul and Jason

2009-03-24T00:18:00.004-04:00

I highly recommend I Love You, Man.

Best music related parts:

- Paul Rudd and Jason Segal playing (and singing!) "Tom Sawyer"

- Their referring to Rush as "the holy trinity" (way better than mere "power trio")

- The extended "Slappa the bass, mahn" joke

- Their dancing at a Rush concert. oh Geddy Lee, how I love you.

Go see it. You're welcome.

they don't love you like I love you

2009-03-22T19:17:00.010-04:00

This is what I mean about cover songs. Covers are best when a band takes another band's song and uses it to say something new. So it's the same song, but it's not. It recalls the source material, doesn't mimic it. It's the difference between photocopying a famous painting and painting that same painting using your own brushes and paint. There's depth in the latter, there's feeling, there's passion.

That being said, I really, really dig this Rogue Wave cover of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs' "Maps." It comes from Sweetheart, the same Starbucks compilation album that also features A.C. Newman's take on "Take on Me." It's "Maps," certainly, but it's Rogue Waves' "Maps." It is distinct, but in a way that honors the original (instead of mocking or destroying or carbon-copying it). It's the kind of cover that someone could like more the original because it is its own song. Its own gorgeous song.

It makes me feel like I'm lying outside under the stars.

"Maps" is actually an oft-covered song. It makes sense. It's a simple song, with a beautiful and memorable melody. Honestly, I have yet to come across a bad version. Notably, Arcade Fire does a passionately earnest version, and Ted Leo uses it as the bridge to his cover of "Since U Been Gone" giving it an epic urgency.

Also, when I happen to sing the song as a member of one of my Rock Band bands, the vocals are a breathtaking combination of strength and vulnerability that have brought a crowded room to the brink of tears. Not to brag or anything.

My 13-year-old self Is FREAKING OUT

2009-03-22T18:37:00.006-04:00

When I was 13, I was a little obsessive. My love was boundless, and extremely focused. My favorite band ("band") was Nsync. My favorite movie was That Thing You Do! (still in my top 2). So tell me, what's better than taking two obsessions and combining them?

If I had known that this existed, I probably would have had some sort of sensory-overload, mind-blowing break down. It would have been too much to handle. I mean, they're wearing red suits! Too much.

The whole playing instruments thing would have been enough back then. Present day me is actually a little impressed by that (in a this-is-more-than-I-thought-you-were-capable-of way not a i-could-never-replicate-your-awesome-skills way). Though Chris' strumming is a little suspect. It doesn't seem in time, but the solo looked like he was actually playing, so I'll give him the benefit of the doubt. Also, this video is proof that you always have the idiot play the drums. And you put the hot one on the bass.

This post is dedicated to my ever-quoting friend Katie. (and thanks to Ryan for finding this!)

Video Flashback: The Rolling Stones

2009-03-22T17:55:00.005-04:00

well, a before-my-time video flashback. thank god for youtube, am i right?

"Under My Thumb" on Ready, Steady, GO! 1966

It's hard to believe that the Stones were ever this cute. So cute! Mick's dancing is cute (instead of the weird and creepy writhing it became. who knew he ever looked this cute too? STAY OFF DRUGS, KIDS!). Charlie Watts' glasses (and tie and vest) are cute! Brian Jones' xylophone playing is cute! Bill Wyman is the definition of the stoic bassist, and it's cute! Each one of their haircuts is cute! I would do terrible things to all of them, in fact (what can i say, i have a thing for big/lots of hair). It makes total sense that they got unbelievable amounts of ass.

On that note, what I think is really funny about this video is the girls. They're going crazy, but not really. They're like reserved crazy. Like, they're fighting to get past guys holding them back, but not really. There's one girl who's sort of crying. It seems more like the the show wanted to make it look like there was some sort of hysteria, but the girls weren't really doing it. Girls are way more crazy these days.

I love this song. It's funny how you can tell that the song fade's out on the album and they haven't quite figured out how to end it live. Awkward. Also, Keith gets very little love from the camera. Poor Keith.

But the most important question is WHERE CAN I GET MICK'S JACKET??? I think I would wear it every day.

more dino news!

2009-03-22T16:34:00.003-04:00

Looking for the perfect present for someone special (i.e. me)?

My friend Elizabeth shared with me this story about how a dryosaurus fossil failed to sell at auction. WHAT?! Who wouldn't want their own dinosaur??? I mean, how could you say no that that face?

Hey buddy! I'm going to name you Gerald.

Topmodelz with a Z

2009-03-22T16:17:00.005-04:00

I don't really know what releasing a techno cover of "Take on Me" accomplishes. It's already a synth-heavy dance song.

But you can't get between Germans and their techno. The duo Topmodelz (does Tyra know about them?) obviously felt the need to release it as a single. Lord knows why. Sure, adding some thumping bass never hurt anyone, but if you don't have anything new to say, maybe you shouldn't say anything at all. But that brings up the whole argument of the merit of covers in general, and do i really want to get into that now? The answer to that question is no.

Because I love you, I won't embed, but if you really feel the need to hear it, here's the link. Silly Germans are silly.

Sorry. But you knew what we were getting into with the "Take on Me" promise. It was bound to turn up a few clunkers.

dino time!

2009-03-19T19:46:00.005-04:00

I've been neglecting half of this blog's subject matter. True, A Dinosaur in Brooklyn is a music blog. but it also a DINOSAUR blog. So, now's the time to share some dino news.

First, this Thinkin' Lincoln comic was sent to me by my friend Kyle, and it reminded me that I have an obligation to be true to my blogs name. It also made me laugh.

That comic made my friend Ryan curious enough to see if there was in fact a www.thebestdinosaur.com. I am pleased to report that there is. With sweet illustrations!

I was then reminded that I read this BBC article the other day. It says that dinosaurs may actually have been fuzzy and not scaly. That they had crazy colorful dino-feathers. This blows my mind! Everything I thought I knew is wrong! Dr. Grant was right, they DID turn into birds!

That's it for today's dino round-up. But there will be more to come, naturally.

You too can be a member of Vampire Weekend

2009-03-19T16:56:00.007-04:00

... if you agree to wear ugly stoner-wear.

Last night the J. Crew's poster boys visited Jimmy Fallon and gave him "White Sky." And they brought a lot of friends with them.

I think they're trying to join Broken Social Scene and Arcade Fire in the who-can-fit-the-most-musicians-on-a-stage contest.

but about the song....

It's light, it's fun, it's summery. It's everything you'd expect from VW. But boring. I haven't totally given up on the song however. According to Stereogum's commenters, the song is much more upbeat live. Fingers-crossed for the studio version.

But the funniest thing about this video is the performance. Ezra looks totally awkward without his guitar and trying to dance around. And then mr. too-cool-for-school drummer chose to play only two of his drums. I can imagine how the band conversation went....

SCENE:
A post-rehearsal Vampire Weekend is chilling in Jimmy Fallon's green room. Keyboardist/guitarist ROSTAM is periodically picking at his guitar and jotting down notes, presumably writing a song. Drummer CHRISTOPHER is flipping through Harper's. Bassist CHRIS is asleep on the couch. Vocalist/guitarist EZRA enters.

EZRA: I don't feel like playing the guitar tonight.

ROSTAM: Ezra, come on, we've talked about this...

EZRA: No seriously, there's going to be a string section. It'll be fine.

CHRISTOPHER: If he's not playing, I'm not playing.

ROSTAM: What? NO! You have to play.

CHRISTOPHER: But that's what the back-up drummer is for.

ROSTAM: This is for tv! You don't want to be on tv?

CHRISTOPHER: Fine, but i'm only playing 1 drum. And I wanna stand in the front.

EZRA: As long as he doesn't get in my dance space.

CHRISTOPHER: Oh, you lose the guitar and suddenly you're Rick Astley, huh?

EZRA: I will slap those wayfarers right off your face!

CHRISTOPHER: Bring it on, madras boy! Be sure to push up your sleeves first!

ROSTAM: Stop! Just stop! Ezra, I will play the guitar for you, as long as you let Christopher stand up front with the rest of us. And Christopher, you have to play at least 2 drums. ok?

EZRA: Fiiiine.

CHRISTOPHER: I'm leaving the wayfarers on.

ROSTAM: fine.

EZRA: fine!

CHRISTOPHER: FINE!

CHRIS: Would you guys shut up? I'm trying to nap.

CHRISTOPHER: Oh hey Chris. I thought you'd gone to get us that mini-fridge.

CHRIS: uh....

EZRA: yeah, any update on the mini-fridge thing. We could really use one in here.

ROSTAM: Chris, go back to sleep. We'll wake you before we go on.

CHRIS: whatever...

End Scene.

They should really work on that whole inter-band-tension thing. Also, bonus points to anyone who gets the Guitar Hero 2 reference!

Happy Saint Patty's Day!

2009-03-17T10:18:00.005-04:00

Well, I'm off to get drunk in Boston.

God I love Boston. Remember when the Dropkicks played this song on top of a duck boat during the Sox parade while Papelbon air guitar-ed along with a broom?

fuck yeah...

the day i've been waiting for

2009-03-16T19:38:00.008-04:00

NEW (synthtastic!) VOXTROT!

"Trepanation Party," y'all:

The production is fantastic. The drums and bass sound great even on shitty laptop speakers! mmm, Voxtrot bass, how I've missed you. Plus I adore the totally-80's-yet-still-fresh-sounding synth. Not as instantly catchy as most of their canon, and certainly a little darker, but it's bound to make it into my most-played rotation. It's also their longest track to date, which you do start to feel by the end. I agree with Stereogum's take, it's like a modern Cure. Ramesh Stristava certainly has a lot of feelings, almost as many as Robert Smith I'd wager.

Granted, this track comes after a two year hiatus. And ever since I discovered them last year (and became obsessed over the summer) I've been absolutely desperate for something new (and the chance to see them live). So I don't know if I dig the track because of that alone, or because it is actually a great track. Maybe a combination of the two.

Now I just need them to come to New York, so I can adore them live. (I've heard one questionable report that they are no good live, particularly Ramesh's vocals, but i refuse to believe. A testament to the strength of my love?)

Sugar Lumps

2009-03-16T10:56:00.005-04:00

I must admit, i haven't been keeping up with Flight of the Conchords this season. The second season started earlier this year, but I've only seen the first episode, which just showed up in my iTunes as part of their podcast (and the episode itself was unremarkable, though i did quite enjoy Murray's "Rejected"). I mean, it's one of my favorite shows, but i don't have HBO and my old laptop was so bad at streaming video, it wasn't worth dowloading them. I figured I'd catch up at some point.

But speaking of their podcast, the video for "Sugar Lumps" from season 2's episode 2 appeared in my itunes the other day. Honestly, sometimes the boys can miss the mark, but this shit is funny. Really funny. Maybe it's the hilarious back-up dancers (including the skinny asian from the "Boom" episode!). Maybe it's Dave's hilarious first appearance in a song. Maybe it's the oh-so-subtle imagery. Maybe it's the different types of pants that Jemaine models. Maybe it's how they actually think girls like looking at men's junk. Doesn't matter, it's all comedy gold.

Check it out:

Their songs got weaker as the first season went on, BUT THIS is a true gem. I can't wait to check out the rest of season 2.

Also, some personal advice: Never leave precious things like, i don't know, your DVD's of Flight of the Conchords season 1, at the apartment of someone you're dating unless you never want to see them again. Still kicking myself for that one.

omfg

2009-03-16T10:25:00.004-04:00

I was already expecting I Love You Man to be the best movie ever. But now I find out Rush is going to be in it? The RUSH??? Paul Rudd and Jason Segal actually sharing the screen with that lovable, prog-rocking, Canadian power trio? woahs.

Here's the (Vampire-Weekend-and-Pixies-featuring) trailer in case you haven't seen it:

I Love You Man comes out this friday. I'm maybe a little excited.

An Ode to My Old Play Counts

2009-03-13T16:51:00.005-04:00

Switching operating systems means there are going to be a few casualties.

Some people don't care about their play counts. Personally, i don't take them too seriously, but they are a good way to make "Top #" playlists and are some times pretty surprising. But as soon as i plug my iPod into my new (still unnamed) macbook, everything will be reset. So for posterity, here is my old top 50 most-played songs (i won't even edit it for embarrassing things. except my own band. that's actually pretty embarrassing).

The songs I Love(d) the Most:
A Tribute to My Dead PC

1. Think I Wanna Die - Someone Still Loves You, Boris Yeltsin
2. Firecracker - Voxtrot
3. Who Do You Love? - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
4. Walking to Do - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
5. Australia - The Shins

6. Trains to Brazil - Guillemots
7. Tell Balgeary, Balgury is Dead - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
8. Our Life Is Not a Movie or Maybe - Okkervil River
9. Unless It's Kicks - Okkervil River
10. Sunndal Song - The Apples in Stereo

11. The Start of Something - Voxtrot
12. Bridges, Squares - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
13. La Costa Brava - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
14. Firecracker - Steel Train
15. Mothers, Sisters, Daughters & Wives - Voxtrot

16. A-Punk - Vampire Weekend
17. 101 - Albert Hammond, Jr
18. Flathead - The Fratellis
19. The First Single - The Format
20. Made Up Love Song #43 - Guillemots

21. Glue Girls - Someone Still Loves You, Boris Yeltsin
22. A Bottle of Buckie - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
23. In Transit - Albert Hammond, Jr
24. 2nd Ave, 11 AM - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
25. Rebellion (Lies) - The Arcade Fire

26. Evil - Interpol
27. Me and Mia - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
28. Electricityscape - The Strokes
29. Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels) - The Arcade Fire
30. Phantom Limb - The Shins

31. O Valencia! - The Decemberists
32. I Feel Weird - Steel Train
33. Who Left the Lights Off, Baby? - Guillemots
34. Kissing the Lipless - The Shins
35. I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance With You - Black Kids

36. Look Me Up - Georgie James
37. Hearts of Oak - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
38. So Far We Are - French Kicks
39. The Magic Position - Patrick Wolf
40. Soft & Warm - Voxtrot

41. I'm a Cuckoo - Belle & Sebastien
42. Marching Bands of Manhattan - Death Cab for Cutie
43. Stereo - Jared Scharff and the Royals
44. Biomusicology - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
45. Oceans - The Format

46. The Compromise - The Format
47. Hold On, Hold On - Neko Case
48. Colleen - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
49. Is There a Ghost - Band of Horses
50. Wait, Wait, Wait - The Format

The top 6 songs were played 100+ times. Every song was played at least 49 times.
Ted Leo shows up 11 times. I'm surprised it's not more, actually.

Sorry. This post is more for me than for you.

2009-03-13T01:02:00.000-04:00

i'm making the switch to mac...

...this could take a while.

Synthtastic!

2009-03-11T18:40:00.007-04:00

Thank God for the synthesizer, am i right?

Here are some tunes I'm pretty into right now. Get ready to dance!

1. Spaceman - The Killers
Of course I'm gonna start things off with the best song ever written bout alien abduction. duh.

2. Spiralling (Radio Edit) - Keane
Great tune. And I'm so glad to hear them explore other sounds, because it's easy to just try and replicate your own success and write the same song over and over (*cough* Coldplay). The spoken-ish bridge is weird though. And the "radio edit" is better, trust me.

3. I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance With You - Black Kids
LOVE the bassline in this song. so hot.

4. Say Goodbye - Samuel
Catchy song. When I saw him perform, people were outside later singing and humming this song. i even caught myself doing it! and i swear i'm not biased just because i know him and the song's producer. Hahah, though the "You're making it hard for me" line makes me think of the 90's hit "Too Close," which then makes me laugh. (circa 1:10. also, WHAT IS THAT VIDEO?!? i'm not even gonna start)

5. Sleeping In - The Postal Service
Cause every playlist needs its slow jam.

6. Again & Again - Keane
Sorry to break the mix tape rules, but what can i say? Perfect Symmetry is a pretty synthtastic album.

7. Take on Me - RAC feat Karl Kling
It'll never get old. The granddaddy of synth tunes. obvs!

8. Time to Pretend - MGMT
Now THAT'S a synth riff.

9. Take a Bow - Muse
Cause every playlist needs its post-apocalyptic jam.

imeem GO!

Pure Nostalgia

2009-03-11T16:58:00.004-04:00

Remember Mario Paint? Remember how you could compose songs with it?

Well, someone does.... "Take on Me" style!

(don't worry, it's not the whole song)

oh man. aren't you glad computers got better?

Mario Teaches Typing is still the sweetest though.

An Open Letter to the Music Supervisor of Watchmen,

2009-03-08T20:41:00.006-04:00

Loved "These Times They Are A-Changin'," totally behind "99 Red Balloons," found "All along the Watchtower" slightly questionable, and positively thrilled by the elevator music version of "Everybody Wants to Rule the World," ..... but "Hallelujah"? That was supposed to be a joke right? RIGHT?

confusedly yours,
Madelyn

P.S. I'm not even going to START about My Chemical Romances' Bob Dylan cover over the credits. That was just mean and you know it.

Muse Mash-ups

2009-03-06T12:24:00.006-05:00

I feel like i need to explain where this post is coming from (because I know how random it seems).

It starts with a google alert which promised a "Take on Me"/"Wonderwall" mash-up. I was like, "Holy shit! this sounds awesome! two of the best songs ever!" However, when I went to track it down, i found it had been part of a radio stream that was no longer working. Boo. (don't worry, i have since found it, and it is REALLY FREAKIN' GOOD!)

Anyway, that led me on a youtube search, where i again, didn't find what i was looking for. But it was then that I saw an A-Ha/Muse mash-up. Now I only really know one song by each of these bands ("Take on Me" obvs, and "Time is Running Out") but I thought I'd watch "The Sun Always Shines on TV"/"Starlight." Funnily, it didn't have a cute mash-up name like most two-song mash-ups do, so i will name it. "A-Ha vs Muse" video, you are now officially...

The Starlight Always Shines on TV

How fucking good is that? I'm pretty unashamed to love both these bands. But then again, I have a thing for the patently epic and ridiculous. Which explains a lot of things, actually. Also, I like how they edited together the videos too. nice touch. (side note: I can't believe how literal Muse was, filming their video on a ship? really? but then again, it is pretty epic...)

but my journey continues.

I decided I really like this "Starlight" song, and really want to hear the un-mashed version. But on the way, I found an AMAZING Killers/Muse mash-up. Because separately, they are pretty fantastically epic bands, but together??? well, the results blew my mind.

When You Were Starlight

I already loved "When You Were Young" and was quickly falling for "Starlight." But this works SO WELL. I do wish there was a little more Brendan Flowers. But I can't complain. That Killers riff sounds so natural with the Muse melody. God. I love it.

I also found a Streets/Muse mash-up. Not good. Well, the mash-up is fine, but I can't stand the Streets.

and now, I've downloaded Black Holes and Revelations (which includes "Take A Bow," the song in the Watchmen trailer... that i thought was Radiohead... silly me) and am taking a listen to the real version of the song. Not really the order I should have gone in, but whatever. Not gonna lie, I kind of like the mash-ups better. Not to say I don't like the song, it's pretty wonderful. but still, the mash-ups are more fun.

Great Expectations

2009-03-04T16:46:00.006-05:00

Here's a few posts you can look forward to in the near future:

My Synthtastic! playlist
Even more "Take on Me"
Demetri Martin

and if i'm feeling really ambitious:

That time I saw Samuel and the Postelles play at Le Royale
Review of Dark Was the Night

Robots i drew!
(you better believe they're being made into album art)

Liveblogging Colbert

2009-03-02T23:57:00.011-05:00

11:57 pm I think Stephen built a new stage just so David Byrne would have room for him, his 4 band members, 3 back-up singers, and 3 wheely-chair dancers (question mark?). all dressed in head-to-toe white. naturally.

11:58 pm Digging the song. Nice mellow vibe. I already forgot the name.

11:59 pm He even has a white guitar strap. classy.

12:00 am The wheely chairs are actually kind of a cute idea, but i don't get why the people in them are acting so bored. David is clearly not bored.

12:01 am But I don't think I'm supposed to get David Byrne, am I?

i am a liveblogging pro.

UPDATE:
here's the video of the performance

The Colbert ReportMon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

David Byrne Pt. 2

Colbert Report Full Episodes
Political Humor

Rap Battle
Joke of the Day

Current Obsession: Spaceman

2009-03-02T19:13:00.008-05:00

Remember when the Killers were good? Remember Hot Fuss? Don't you miss that?

Incidentally, the new song I can't stop listening to is "Spaceman" by the Killers off their new(ish) album Day & Age. I've seriously been listening to it on repeat. It's much better than lead single "Human" (which is pretty good itself). Actually, it is a pretty strong album. Except "Joy Ride." "Joy Ride" is dumb. And so is the steel drum in "I Can't Stay." But I still like the song.

Anyway, have a listen!

I truly missed the ridiculousness that is Brandon Flowers. He lost the mustache, and like magic the Killers were back! I'm glad they returned to what they do best - dance beats and eighties synths. And lyrics worse than Interpol's. But I love it.

This song has also inspired a new playlist coming soon. Synthtastic!

Drum Tracking

2009-02-22T13:58:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, half my band took over my apartment and laid down some drum tracks. Good times!

More like, Loud times! Good thing my neighbors are never home.

"everything's calm in the half-light of dawn...

2009-02-20T11:21:00.006-05:00

but the morning will bring no peace."

Last night I dreamed that I was in my high school with my best friend, and we walked into the field house and the marching band was playing (including our friend Katie). I don't remember what they were playing at first, but then they started playing "The Crane Takes Flight" by Ted Leo and the Pharmacists. Then this guy with dreadlocks handed me a mic. So I sang. The next song they played was "Fields of Gold" by Sting, and this kid Ben started singing, and I was like, 'I'm outta here!' That's it.

What do you suppose that means?

Hutchtastic!

2009-02-19T19:28:00.006-05:00

I'm really digging this new Thermals song. "Now We Can See" is less manic and in-your-face than typical Thermals fare, but still totally rocks. It's the-Thermals-do-mellow. Love the "oh-way-ohs." Very catchy.

"Now We Can See" is streaming on their myspace. Their album of the same name comes out in April on Kill Rock Stars.

And just for fun, here's one of my favorite music videos EVER, "A Pillar of Salt." Look out for Colin Meloy!

Kathy Foster totally makes the list of hottest chick bassists. She's so cool it hurts.

[side note: I saw the Thermals when they played at NYU about two years ago (with the Hold Steady whom I have seen once, and skipped twice). A picture of Hutch from that show still shows up on my roommate's phone whenever I call. Isn't that cute?]

that's more like it

2009-02-17T20:29:00.004-05:00

Family Guy + A-ha = Favorite.

Enjoy. Fur realz.

OMGz!

2009-02-17T20:16:00.009-05:00

The Jonas Brothers totally do a cover of "Take on Me" live!!!

Now, I waded through a lot of terrible, fan-generated concert recordings to find this one (i didn't know that white pants were back!). Shockingly, there is no screaming. Unshockingly, it is terrible.

Two thoughts:
1) Sadly, fans of the bothers most likely first heard this song from them. and were born at least a DECADE after it was released. AT LEAST. It's just so wrong.

2) Their bassist is ADORABLE!

All the goodwill they generated with that SNL short is gone.

Not true. That short is hilarious!

a promise is a promise?

2009-02-17T19:58:00.003-05:00

I just watched an acapella group from Michigan State University sing "Take On Me." As promised, I have told you about it. I will not post the video. You're welcome.

And Christian pop punk band (?) MxPx does a cover that I GUARANTEE you don't want to hear.

If there's one thing i love...

2009-02-16T12:28:00.004-05:00

it's the Jonas Brothers. that's a lie. BUT if there's one thing i really do love, it's a good metal parody. I don't know if you caught this past weekend's SNL (like Seth Meyers said, "to those of you watching at home, better luck next year"), but it featured a Digital Short starring the aforementioned lovable tots.

Now, you can say whatever you want about them (they are generic, and pandering, and played a surprisingly flat and lifeless performance, for instance?) but at least they have a sense of humor about themselves. Their enthusiastic participation in this brilliant short is enough to repair their image in my eyes (still not enough to enjoy their music) (also, don't watch the other sketch they were in). Honestly, this was probably the funniest part of the episode.

I don't know what part I like best! Andy Samberg calling them turds (ha. turds.), the oldest Jonas' handlebar mustache and tiger-print leggings, the other SNL regulars as the rest of the band (particularly Will Forte's ENORMOUS hair), the middle Jonas' leg-kicks and falsetto, the ridiculous yet totally plausible hair metal songs and video effects (as the littlest Jonas points out, "It really holds up"), OR Bill Hader as the Wizard.

Definitely Bill Hader as the Wizard.

Is is bad that I find the 16-year-old attractive?

Metallo Italiano

2009-02-16T12:17:00.004-05:00

I don't know what it is with metal bands and this song.

Here's a cover by Italian "progressive power metal" band Vision Divine. Fairly faithful cover, actually. The best part is the singer's accent.

I don't hear "progressive power metal," but that descriptor makes me curious....

The Finnish band still totally wins for best metal cover as far as the TOMP is concerned.

I'll be coming for you anyway

2009-02-15T14:03:00.008-05:00

Two additions to the TOMP, both not really new.

First we have a cover by British boy band a1 (like the steak sauce), released in 2000. Now, "Take on Me" is a brilliant song and all, but should you ever release a cover of it as a single? No. The answer to that question is no. Because this is what happens:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjOgBqp61MM
(sorry, embedding was disabled. LAME)

This thing takes me straight back to 7th grade. That "metrosexual" boy band style is RAGING in this video; the waxed eyebrows, the dyed tips, the strategically gelled hair, the matching outfits. It doesn't help that they're European. I am proud to say American girls were never into these guys. (*Nsync forevs!)

Plus, they butcher the song. (But as hard as they try, they could never ruin it for me). It was a little hard to get through despite it's being visually HILARIOUS. It was worth it to see them fly in... i don' know, virtual reality? while fighting a deadly computer virus? what is going on here? And why does that one guy only have one sleeve???

We're obviously supposed to find these boys attractive. But I think it's telling that their upcoming reunion concert is being held at a venue called G-A-Y. I kind of wish I was kidding.

Glad that's over with. Moving on!

This one you may already be aware of: Reel Big Fish apparently did a cover of "Take on Me" for the movie Basketball? I'm not a fan of Reel Big Fish, and this cover sounds exactly the way you would expect a ska version of this song to. But it's fun, i guess. They obviously had a lot of fun with it, which I definitely appreciate. Though, the film tie-in makes it a bit dated. But I do like the vocal harmonies, and the horns playing the main riff (even if it's expected).

Honestly, I can only take so much ska at one time. It can be tiring.

Side note, I would kill for that one guy's leopard print blazer.

Bad News

2009-02-15T12:45:00.001-05:00

My laptop is on its last legs. so to speak. I apologize if posts are infrequent until it can be replaced.

Who DOESN'T love Finnish hair metal???

2009-02-11T17:54:00.006-05:00

As part of the TOMP ("take on me" promise), I bring to you the Northern Kings, the Finnish, tux-wearing cross between Metallica and Meat Loaf. Make that Metallica and four Meat Loafs. (They play a lot of covers)

And they certainly put their own twist on our tune, including a puzzling, harmony-ridden mid-song slowdown. Enjoy!(?)

I quite enjoyed that, actually. If only for the novelty and my secret, ironic love of metal.

via Blabbermouth.net

Do you like my mullet?

2009-02-11T12:34:00.009-05:00

business in front, party in back.

So, these "literal version" videos are apparently all the rage these days. The first one I'd heard of/seen was of course the fore-posted version of A-ha.

But imagine my surprise and delight to find out that there is a literal version of "Head over Heels" by Tears for Fears! Now, anyone who's known me since high school can tell you about my love of Tears for Fears (beyond, even, my love of 80's music in general, which is quite a passionate one). Their The Very Best of album is probably still in my car stereo. So now you can properly imagine my surprise and delight!

Love the chimp in the Sox jersey. Also, "Is that Dave Coulier?" And "I saw Ghostbusters, this copied that." word.