RockPaperCity

Neon Hitch - Fuck U Betta

2012-01-29T05:22:00.000-08:00

I liked her role in that gym class heroes song so she's on my radar, then i heard this song on the radio recently and kind of had a head shaking moment. another Britney song? still, it makes me laugh (in a good way) with the major use of auto-tune and the chorus annoys me legitimately. But oddly enough, i want to know what else she can offer. hopefully a song that can pound my face.

Rating: 2/10

David Guetta - Turn Me On (ft. Nicki Minaj )

2012-01-22T03:15:00.000-08:00

From Album: Nothing but the Beat

heard this on the radio, felt like a big "generic" rihanna ripoff, but when i found out it was david guetta and nicki minaj, what the fuck? so disappointed. this is not the nicki minaj people love. let her loose.

Rating: 2/10

Lana Del Rey - Off to The Races

2011-12-21T13:17:00.000-08:00

From Album: Born to Die

damn, what a badass song. is that really her or is she playing a character? who knows, but this song really captivated me on first listen.

rating: 9/10

2011: Album(s) of the Year

2011-12-15T20:13:00.000-08:00

What happened to your new year's resolution?

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Honorable Mention
The Book of Mormon: Original Broadway Cast Recording
what the hell, it's fun to sing along. i know i know, how mature Chris, this is so vulgar, but i'm a big fan of mixing tradition with "WTF"ness. the songs here are standard Broadway musical music, but none of the characters know the songs they are singing is ridiculous. it's not quite a parody. so the showmanship is so fascinating to me. plus, the story is pretty funny.
Favorite Songs: Hello, Hasa Diga Eebowai, Joseph Smith American Moses
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25. Diego Garcia - Laura
Do you feel that Spanish flavor? i guess it's great that i never heard of his band because i would have had some sort of expectation. this album is just meant for lonely people and i just found it to be really pretty at times. nothing more, nothing less. the length of it is pretty short, so i never get to bored.
Favorite Songs: Inside My Heart, You Were Never There, Roses and Wine

24. Fucked Up - David Comes To Life
Why does this album have to be so long?
Favorite Songs: Queen of Hearts, Turn The Season, Serve Me Right

23. Laura Stevenson & the Cans
what the heck, why is she so adorable? she puts a smile on my face, that should be enough of a reason.
Favorite Songs: Master of Art, The Healthy One, I See Dark

22. Tycho - Dive
I don't know why i gave this album a listen. the reviews weren't that great and instrumental music is past my phase, but still, i was sort of sucked into this world. i'm a fan of melodies more than anything and this album is strickly free floating melodies. and it's fun to get lost in this world. Most instrumental music gets grouped with incidental music, but i tried to study with this album and it's hard. i tend to imagine i'm somewhere else.
Favorite Songs: House, Dive

21. Tune-Yards - W H O K I L L
Weird as fuck.
Favorite Songs: My Country, Powa, Bizness

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20. Okkervil River - I Am Very Far
One of my favorite bands. This record seems overlooked and i admit, i was letdown too. with Black Sheep Boy and The Stage Names, those were loose concept album, but this album is just the band trying to piss everybody off with how forward they can go. I love how they can rock and be lovely on the next track, but this album sort of sits in the middle for me. nothing would be on my "favorite" list nor anything would make my "least favorite." But because i'm bias, i like every song here. but i admit, it's not close to the greatness of the Black Sheep Boy.
Favorite Songs: Piratess, Mermaid, Your Past Life As A Blast

19. Miranda Lambert - Four The Record
what a surprise. I like Taylor Swift because she's young and relatable, but Miranda Lambert just looks and feels like your commerilized country singers. Since i was a fan of blake shelton on The voice, i gave this album a listen soley because she was his wife. and yeah, there's a lot to love here. nothing that would shift music taste, but song after song, it's very expected, but i liked it. it hits all those sweet country spots.
Favorite Songs: Fine Tune, Dear Diamond, Over You

18. Dawes - Nothing is Wrong
My Morning Jacket-lite
Favorite Songs: Time Spent in Los Angeles, My Way Back Home, A Little Bit of Everything

17. Beyonce - 4
"Best Thing I Never Had" was very easy on my ears, but everything else was typical beyonce..but since i had nothing to listen to, i ended up just letting the whole album play and over time, her melodies started to creep up on and and you know what, Beyonce is actually an amazing vocalist.
Favorite Songs: 1+1, Best Thing I Never Had, Countdown

16. St. Vincent - Strange Mercy
O how i thought she was a weirdo back in 2007. i warmed up to her in 2009, but on her 2011 album, i finally got her. maybe because i'm familiar or maybe she tone down, but the way she sings is so interesting. by the 3rd track, i just trusted her that the rest of the album would be great and she didn't let me down.
Favorite Songs: Cruel, Strange Mercy, Neutered Fruit

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15. Moving Mountains - Waves
It makes me happy that these guys are able to continue as a band. This is their first album on a label and it does feel less abstract, but it fits well with my current taste because my attention span isn't as exploratory as it once was. there are some weak spots on the album, but as a whole, it makes waves.
Favorite Songs: My Life Is Like a Chase Dream (And I'm Still Having Chase Dreams), Tired Tiger, The Cascade

14. Jay-Z & Kanye West - Watch The Throne
Prince William aint do it right if you ask me.
Favorite Songs: No Church in The Wild, Niggas in Paris, New Day

13. Lady Gaga - Born This Way
My original new year's resolution was to not listen to any 2011 albums until November just to see if my mind would explode during listmas, but the hype for Born this Way was so high. Did it live up to expectations? in some ways yes, but there's a few misses. "bad kids" ruin the entire album for me. but it's still a fine pop album.
Favorite Songs: Marry The Night, Heavy Metal Lover, The Edge of Glory

12. Meg & Dia - Cocoon
It's funny how i didn't like this at first because the pop felt tone down, but when i found out that Dia would be on The Voice, i kept coming back to this album trying to figure out what the band was trying to accomplish. It wasn't that they lacked that pop edge, it just what happens when a band is left alone. a big reason i kept coming back to it is because i recognized that the album is far from perfect. sometimes i wish the songs would punch more. It's that imperfection that makes me want to come back.
Favorite Songs: Love Is, Breakdown, Separate

11. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues
This album grow on me. i didn't hate it the first time, it just that, when it comes with bands with that folky sound, it's hard to impress me on the second album. i really liked their melodies and harmonies on the first album so with Helplessness Blues, i guess it's not as perfect. but because of that, i find myself finding more things i've actually liked the more i gave it a listen. it's Fleet Foxes doing what they do best.
Favorite Songs: Montezuma, Helplessness Blues, The Shrine

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10. M83 - Hurry Up, We're Dreaming
I gave up on this band after their 2003 album so when i heard this album was going to be 2 disc, i honestly didn't care. But then i heard "Midnight City" which i thought was zappy and then i heard "Intro" which made me want to run. Does this album have to be 1 hour and 13 minutes long? probably not, but damn, this guy really pushed himself to the limits here.
Favorite Songs: Intro, Midnight City, Raconte-Moi Une Histoire

9. Bill Callahan - Apocalypse
So this guy is pretty boring. He sings the same way the whole time. I don't really connect to his lyrics either, but sometimes i enjoy music to not be so engaging, but just something that makes me feel less alone. of course, i'm glad he isn't singing about himself or failed relationship, but i feel that he can sing whatever he wants and i'll enjoy the mood and melodies because i'll just let it enter my mind. Even thought the vocals are what draws me in, the music just creeps up and gives it that extra pulse.
Favorite Songs: Baby's Breath, Riding For The Feeling, One Fine Morning

8. Destroyer - Kaputt
More SAXophone. I tried his solo stuff outside of The New Pornographers and none of them really felt solid enough, but on this album, he changed his entire sound to be more smooth and jazzy. Am i a fan of Jazz? not quite, but i feel so deep and lost in his music. sometimes the melodies are buried and sometimes the melodies are in the forefront. I guess the titled-track is the centerpiece, but it's really hard for me to pick an absolute favorite because i really feel like the tracks work together.
Favorite Songs: Chinatown, Suicide Demo For Kara Walker, Kaputt

7. Lykke Li - Wounded Rhymes
I guess she's like my Joanna Newsom this year since her voice does take time to warm up on. She sounds like a adorable kid, but she doesn't sing about teenage bullshit. she's good at singing about love and pain. i can't really think of anyone else who sounds like her musically.
Favorite Songs: Unrequited Love, Get Some, Sadness is a Blessing

6. Givers - In Light
If i'm being honest, this album has to be this high because it's not really an album that pushes forward, but it contains all the elements from indie pop that i love. boy/girl dual singing, epic songs, and tons of Dirty Projector influence. except i have no idea if that's there's intention. all i know is that this band is having a blast with this album and i realized that I've been lazy this year with discovering new music, but this album knows how to entertain me. side note, "up Up up" is a horrible song.
Favorite Songs: Meantime, Noche Nada, Ceiling of Plankton

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5. La Dispute - Wildlife
when i was distancing myself from radio friendly alternative rock, i got more comfortable with bands that use screams and one of those bands was La Dispute. but I'm 25 now, i feel like i mature and i'm not angry at anybody, but this album was ridiculous. It really blows my mind how the spoken style of singing feels like my own conscious. it doesn't matter what he said, i feel my own energy leaking through the song. the music complements the vocals so hard.
Favorite Songs: Safer in the Forest/Love Song for Poor Michigan, The Most Beautiful Bitter Fruit, King Park

4. Adele - 21
She's unstoppable. I didn't give her a listen until March solely because she didn't seem that "new" back in 2008, but i gave it a casual listen and the first few listens, she's fits the commercialize British singers. but the more i listen, the more i realized that she's not just a typical singer who knows how to sing loud. As much as i love creative people, I have a weak spot for singers who believe in every word they song. Adele sings the hell out of this album and i can't say she made a personal connection with me, but as an record, it's the defining albums of 2011.
Favorite Songs: Turning Tables, Set Fire To The Rain, Someone Like You

3. Girls - Father, Son, Holy Ghost
Their from San Fransisco, but that's not important. I love their song, "Lust For Life" but nothing really else. For some reason, i wanted this album to fail because i hate being wrong on music, but fuck, this album blew me away because they have a very smokey sound quality to them and the vocals is not very traditional. but still, they combine a lot of 60s/70s sound and sometimes they get cheesy like on "Saying I Love You" that makes me ask, "are they serious?" but i learned early on to trust them and it warms my heart.
Favorite Songs: Alex, Vomit, Jamie Marie

2. PJ Harvey - Let England Shake
Never gave a shit about her mostly because she has so much releases in the past, it's hard to get started. but because i'm very "current," once the reviews came in, i had to see what the hype was about. And it's hard to describe her because i knew she was in her 40s, but she sounds very young. or maybe it's because her voice is very high pitch. but what i love is how uniform the songs seem to be. is this a concept album? no sure, but with England as its backdrop really made me feel like she's telling a story or has a message. thankfully the music is great and the hooks are memorable.
Favorite Songs: The Glorious Land, The Words That Maketh Murder, On Battleship Hill

1. Bon Iver - Bon Iver
Thank you Kanye. i wish i could say that i was a fan from his debut, but really, only 2-3 songs really grabbed me. Then after his guest spot on Kanye's album, i had more faith in him and his band. I wasn't sure if he could really push his sound forward because the beauty of the first album was how remote it sounded. and still, it's not a copy. what i love best about it is how it actually feels like a complete album. Sure, "Holocene" and "Calgary" are the highlights, but the songs in-between really help create the universe of Bon Iver.
Favorite Songs: Holocene, Calgary, Beth/Rest

2011: Song(s) of the Year

2011-12-08T18:05:00.000-08:00

Do you guys think my love for the gym and overdosing on confidence has altered my taste in music?
===============
Honorable mention: Avicii - Levels
The Etta James sample is so sick.
===============

25. Smith Westerns - All Die Young
slow burning garage rock
"love is lovely when you are young"

24. Pitbull - Give Me Everything (Feat. Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer)
typical dance-club, but it clears my mind.
"I gotta locked up like lindsay lohan"

23. Lana Del Rey - Video Games
hi nancy sinatra.
"only worth living if somebody is loving you"

22. Wu Lyf - We Bros
i can't understand a word they say.
"put away your guns man and sing this song"

21. Yuck - Shook Down
a throwback to 90's alt.
"the time it takes for you is the time it takes for me"

20. Cut Copy - Blink And You'll Miss A Revolution
the chorus is infectious.
"baby baby, can't you see"

19. Los Campesinos! - By Your Hand
they won't ever top their first album.
"i'm not sure if it's love anymore"

18. Carissa's Wierd - Meredith & Iris
holy shit they reunion and made a new song.
"tell me everything i know has all been a lie?"

17. PJ Harvey - The Words That Maketh Murder
how does she still have it?
"what if i take my problem to the united nations?"

16. Cults - You Know What I Mean
they totally 60s it.
"tell me what's wrong with my brain"

15. Lykke Li - Sadness Is A Blessing
so that's where the title of the album came from.
"these scars of mine make wounded rhymes tonight'

14. Rihanna - We Found Love (Feat. Calvin Harris)
Rihanna needs her own radio station.
"yellow diamonds in the light"

13. Givers - Meantime
so many elements in this song.
"and all this time you lost you will learn again"

12. Seryn - We Will All Be Changed
great, more folk-rock.
"we can shape but can't control these possibilities to grow"

11. Laura Stevenson and the Cans - Master of Art
she's so adorable
"you should know that i am often difficult"

10. Drake - Take Care (Feat. Rihanna)
thanks jamie xx
"if you let me, here's what i'll do"

9. Jens Lekman - Waiting For Kirsten
kirsten dunst is not worth waiting for.
"in gothenburg we don't have vip lines"

8. Adele - Someone Like You
piano + voice
"yesterday was the time of our lives"

7. Nicki Minaj - Super Bass
literally pulled an 180 when i heard this song.
"can't you hear that boom, badoom, boom, boom, badoom, boom, bass"

6. M83 - Intro
my warm-up song for the threadmill.
"we became the stories we became the places"

5. The Decemberists - June Hymn
they still got it.
"i give my best to Springville Hill"

4. Girls - Vomit
where did the gospel lady come from?
"lookin' for you, baby, lookin' for love"

3. Panda Bear - Last Night At The Jetty
this song is mesmerizing.
"i know i know i know i know"

2. Bon Iver - Holocene
best vocal performance.
"and at once i knew i was not magnificent"

1. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues
that opening line is exactly what i needed.
"i was raised up believing i was somehow unique"

2011: Best 'new to me" or rediscoveries or compilation...

2011-12-01T00:24:00.000-08:00

Hello blog, we meet again.

Songs:
every past Pitbull single
James Vincent McMorrow - If I Had a Boat
Skrillex - Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites
The Band Perry - If I Die Young
Young The Giant - My Body
The Script - Like The First Time
Todd Rundgren - Bang The Drum All Day

Albums:
A Weather - Everyday Balloons
Nicki Minaj - Pink Friday
R.E.M. - Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982–2011

Demi Lovato - Skyscraper

2011-07-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

the way her voice is strained is fascinating.

Rating: 7/10

Mid-Monthy-Mixtape: Harry Potter

2011-07-14T17:57:00.000-07:00

I watched all Potter movies in 5 days.
1. Harry's Wondrous World
2. Hedwig's Theme
3. Fawkes the Phoenix
4. Buckbeak's Flight
5. Harry in Winter
6. Magic Works
7. Professor Umbridge
8. Loved Ones and Leaving
9. Dumbledore's Farwell

Flavors: June '11

2011-06-30T23:51:00.000-07:00

I don't remember what i was into this month.

1.

JoJo - Marvin's Room

2011-06-21T14:24:00.000-07:00

Damn. remember that song "Leave (get out)" because i thought that would be her only hit. But damn. This fucken song. Drake's version did nothing for me, but that's not important. I'm really feeling JoJo's voice here. So soft. So sexy. So precise.

Rating: 7/10

Mid-Monthy-Mixtape: 2011's halfway point

2011-06-14T05:43:00.000-07:00

Alright. When i look back to the middle of 2011, these are the songs that will remind me of what i was into at the time. [aka my favorite songs of 2011 so far.]

1. Adele - Someone Like You
2. Bon Iver - Holocene
3. Cut Copy - Need You Now
4. The Decemberists - June Hymn
5. James Blake - Lindisfarne
6. Lykke Li - Sadness is a Blessing
7. Moving Mountains - The Cascade
8. The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - The Body
9. Panda Bear - Last Night at the Jetty
10. PJ Harvey - The Words That Maketh Murder
11. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues
12. Fucked Up - Queen of Hearts
13. Beyoncé - Best Thing I Never Had
14. Cults - You Know What I Mean
15. Nicki Minaj - Super Bass

----
worst song of the year:
1. Price Tag

Cults - Cults

2011-06-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 06/07/11
Genre: lo-fi indie pop, noise

My Thoughts: I really enjoy this album, but it does feel very "flavor of the month" ish. I didn't get into the Best Coast craze last year, but that's who this band reminds me of. I also feel a bit of Beach House, but vocals are as strong. Before i even saw a picture of the lead singer, i just imagine that she was this shy tiny girl and the part that captures me is how she projects herself out there. But how long will this last me? not sure. That's why i feel its very Flavor of the month. A person can only be cute for so long. It's retro. It's fuzzy

Favorite Songs: Go Outside, You Know What I Mean, Oh My God
Rating: 7.8/10

Tech N9ne - Worldwide Choppers

2011-06-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

From Album: All 6's and 7's

What the, how the... slow the fuck down!

Rating: 9/10

Acid House Kings - Music Sounds Better With You

2011-06-04T02:54:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 03/22/11
Genre: Indie Pop

Why: Because it's harmlessly catchy.

Favorite Songs: Would You Say Stop?, Under Water, (I'm In) A Chorus Line
Rating: 8.0/10

Bon Iver - Bon Iver, Bon Iver

2011-06-03T20:32:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 06/21/11
Genre: Indie Folk

My Story: What a long way this guy has come. I used to visit the metacritic forums back when they had it and during the 2008 years, lots of members were discussing the validity of Bon Iver's inclusion because it was self-released in 2007, but didn't get much attention til it was re-released. I honestly didn't think it was that engaging since I was into Fleet Foxes, Laura Marling and Bonnie 'Prince' Billy. Those guys had melodies and hooks.

I started embracing him more when i heard his song from the Dark Was The Night compilation and then his EP, Blood Bank. I started to respect him more and more and appreciated his voice. My honest approach to the new album was expecting the same old stuff. And for a while, that's what i thought. In the last month, I went to play Star Wars: KotoR II because i never got the chance to and it wouldnt let me use window mode so i just picked an album to give me background music. Bon Iver was one of them.

Since I didn't want to alternate between songs, i just let the album play out without looking at the tracklist. Even if i get bored, it pulls me back in. Now with enough listens, i can say it's one of the most beautiful albums of the year.

Favorite Songs: Holocene, Calgary, Beth/Rest
Rating: 9.5/10

Coldplay - Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall

2011-06-03T18:43:00.000-07:00

From Album: Upcoming Fifth Album

Well the ending is pretty boring and i don't mind the fact that they sampled some obscured song i never heard of it. The song does have this energy and flow from the music, but vocals don't carry it far for me so aside from that occasional guitar riff, there's no rewards.

Rating: 4/10

Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues

2011-06-02T20:29:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 05/03/11
Genre: Folk

Review: So strange. I thought the new album was more of the same so it didn't grabbed me at first, but maybe because i'm less familiar with it, it feels more mysterous to digest compared to their self-titled. I still prefer that album to this, but this is a fine album within itself. Although, it's sometimes gets on my nerve of the warm fuzzy attitude that Fleet Foxes seem to carry. Because of that, depending where i am in the album, i can get lost or i can get buried.

Favorite Songs: Battery Kinzie, Helplessness Blues, Lorelai
Rating: 8.3/10

Sigur Rós - Ágætis Byrjun

2011-06-02T09:08:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 06/12/99
Genre: Sigur Rós

My Story: I started with ( ), moved onto takk..., then came around to Ágætis Byrjun. I remember having a harder time getting into this album since they were younger and ( ) was easy because the themes were easier to identify. takk... was more pop so the melodies sunk in. Since I had a friend who claimed to be a fan, i wanted to make sure i knew the band's work so i wouldn't look foolish so i forced myself to listen to album to and from school. The song that hooked me was "Flugufrelsarinn" because of the way it is sung. With more listens, the album just made more sense with the risk it took. It doesn't sound dated either.

Favorite Songs: Starálfur, Viðrar Vel Til Loftárása, Olsen Olsen
Rating: 10/10

ABBA Gold: Greatest Hits

2011-06-02T04:46:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 09/21/92
Genre: Pop/Disco

My Story: Do people realize how ridiculous this album is? I heard "Dancing Queen," but nothing else. I was unaware that the Broadway show, Mamma Mia! was based on the music of ABBA and I even saw their name on the list of best selling recording artist of all times. But I never tried them until i was in a live chat with 4400 star, Jacqueline McKenzie who sang a bit of "Take a Chance on Me." So I downloaded their greatest hits album as a quick start to their music, but the crazy part is that once i got through each song, it blew my mind that every song has a hook. I guess that should be expected since this was their greatest hits. but I'm a newbie to their music so it was just ridiculous how memorable and perfect the pop melodies were. Also, the track list is perfect. It even feels like the songs were made to support each other.

Favorite Songs: Mamma Mia, I Have a Dream, The Winner Takes It All
Rating: 10/10

Meg & Dia - Cocoon

2011-06-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 04/5/11
Genre: Indie Pop

Review: I was shocked when i heard that they were released from their label, but when i heard their EP last year, It's Always Stormy In Tillamook, i thought it was justified. Dia has an interesting voice and the lyrics are pretty storytelling-like. My first few days of listening to Cocoon were filled with disappointment because it was more naked in terms of music. The surgery pop energy felt toned down. But the more I listen to the album, the more it gives back to me. I think because of the way the album is un-unified and the pop melodies arent so forefront, the imperfections make it a better lasting album for me.

Favorite Songs: Love Is, Breakdown, Separate
Rating: 8.0/10

Flavors: May '11

2011-05-31T03:56:00.000-07:00

weak month for me, mostly because i didn't try. =/

1. Bon Iver - Calgary
2. Moving Mountains - The Cascade
3. Lady Gaga - Heavy Metal Lover
4. Moonface - Fast Peter
5. The Lonely Island - Jack Sparrow

Lady Gaga - Born This Way

2011-05-28T06:11:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 5/23/11
Genre: Pop

Are people serious when they say Lady Gaga won't be relevant within 5 years? I know she's not as original as she claims to be, but those who say she's not talented are just kidding themselves. I didn't turn my leaf for her until this video and it made me laugh, but I had no idea what song she was performing or why she was on the piano, so i went off to watch the original, which lead to her interviews, which lead to the question, "Is Lady Gaga serious?"

When I started listening to music, it was because of pop, but I drifted away from it because many top 40 songs were tame and afraid to experiment. Gaga isn't the greatest anything, but what I admire about her is her ruthless attitude for achieving greatness. She didn't get lucky. She worked her ass off in small clubs. Interviewers sometimes ask, "when did you know you had made it?" and she'll answer, "i haven't yet." It sounds crazy, but i guess it's because she still has something to prove to her doubters.

It sucks, but I understand Gaga isn't for everyone, but for me, she unlocked the barriers i had that I didn't know I had up. For any other pop darling, the standards are fairly low, just be catchy. With Gaga, she was someone I could not separate the music with the artist. The more videos I've watched of her on youtube, the more fascinating she became. Her persona, her visuals, her dance routines just added up. Everything she did was part of her "art." When "Bad Romance" came out, It felt like the biggest "gotcha" moment in music. No longer was she a guilty pleasure. She was someone I could be proud of.

Review: "Born This Way" was incredibly hyped, not just from the fans, but Gaga and her production team. I'm sure everyone has heard the quote that she called it the "greatest album of the decade." It made me happy to know that was what she was working towards, but she should never do that again! That was a mistake. When i do listen to Lady Gaga, i mostly listen to The Fame Monster. Rarely do i listen to stuff from The Fame unless it's the acoustic versions floating around youtube. Hate on me if you will, but The Fame was pretty disposable. The Fame Monster, with its shorter time span, was more condensed and lyrically, the theme was much darker.

My expectations were hoping it'll lean towards the EPs' sound. A new track seemed to come out in the weeks leading to the album release. Once it leaked in full, i spent many listens to the album and i come to the conclusion that "Bad Kids" and "Highway Unicorn" are awful songs that it completely ruin the album. I tried taking a break and proceeded to listen to them with a fresh mind. The problem with those tracks are that they are boring and inoffensive. "Bad Kids" honestly sounds unfinished. I can hear the Gaga formula working with "Highway Unicorn," but that's all i saw. Just a typical Gaga progression with no imagination. It was just filler. The album runs at 1:01 so taking those two songs out would still be a meaty 53 minutes.

I already took the liberties to remove those two songs from my ipod so i could go straight to "Heavy Metal Lover." That song is fairly damp with bass and I didn't get it at first. Since my first listen was from the leak, i thought it was an unfinished version, but the subtlety worked when Gaga hits that "I could be your girl-girl-girl-girl-girl-girl/But would you love me if I ruled the world-world-world." That just made me go crazy.

"Electric Chapel" reminds me of some epic video game boss battle. All i can say is that i like the beat. "Yoü And I" has been in her live shows for her awhile and I get it, but something about the studio version makes it feel out of place. Lastly, the album ends with "The Edge of Glory." She sings the hell out of this track, but man, the sax is so ridiculous. I felt it dragged too much towards the end.

Now, The Fame Monster was only 8 tracks long, and honestly, if Born This Way only consisted of the first 8 tracks, i would have no problem with giving it high praise. It's not perfect, but as a unit, the first 8 tracks were all interesting and resulted with . Starting with opener, "Marry The Night," is a slow turner with some new wave influence.

"Born This Way" was the lead single and I think the Madonna comparisons were too hard because I don't think they sound a like at all. I get the undertone message of acceptance was there, but not the melody or beats. Overall, I liked the song, but i hated the "don't be a drag, just be a queen" line.

I thought "Government Hooker" was a shit song for a while, but it started to warm up to be. the line, "put your hands on me, John F Kennedy" is soooooooo lame. But i still enjoyed the song because it's bad, awkward, weird, and really, just sleazy sounding.

"Judas" is a blueprint sounding song that reminded me of Bad Romance. But within the flow of the album, it doesn't bother me as much. I actually enjoy singing along to it because i'm anticipating the hooks in my head so it gets me excited. Creativity, it's not that good. "Americano" is that macho sounding song with rich Latin American flavor. This is the shit i loved about her. cheesy pop music that's overly over the top. It's feels like the song is overflowing with ideas and she sings in Spanish too. It's dancey, it's silly, it's hilariously good.

Now for "Hair," it has the sax from "Edge of Glory," but somehow, i dont find it cheesy at all. "Hair" is a 80's throwback and the build up is fairly standard, but this song just works for me. I know, the lyrics are a bit youthful, "I just want to be free, I just want to be me And I want lots of friends who invite me to their parties," and the message is another "be yourself" statement, the music here is so pulsing that I actually feel cleansed. This song really blew me away.

"Scheiße" was a surprise to like because there was a remix out it out and when i started hearing the beginning german parts, I was thinking it'll be chunky, but after that, Gaga sounds really powerful and i guess this is an anthem for the females. the chorus sounds very familiar to her other songs, but the music's background music is very addicted. Very spaceship zip and zaps.

And finally, "Bloody Mary" is so slow, yet sensual. It's a slow one, but has this interesting bass with creepy undertones. The way she sings the chorus is so pretty. It's like she's painting her canvas with her voice.

Summary: She's the best thing to happen to pop music. This album was made for her fans, so it has a more song by song approach than a whole album. Only two songs I would consider filler, the rest are stuff Gaga fans would be satisfied by. Now if only she would release an acoustic album because she can definitely sing her ass off.

Favorite Songs: Born This Way, Hair, Heavy Metal Lover
Rating: 8.4/10

Michelle Branch - Loud Music

2011-05-27T17:40:00.000-07:00

From Album: TBD (2011)

Officially it'll be release on June 14, nearly 8 year after the release of Hotel Paper. Yep, i remember stuff like that, so I'm extremely bias towards anything Ms. Branch touches. But unlike my disappointment in her b-sides and that awful Timberland single, "Loud Music" is a lot like The Spirit Room, but without that innocence. It's a bit annoying that she name-checks classic rock bands and the ending minute is just a repeat of the chorus without much of a punch.

Rating: 7/10

Pitbull - Give Me Everything

2011-05-22T01:02:00.000-07:00

From Album: Planet Pit

Maybe it's because of the coming summer, but there's something about the flavor of Pitbull's voice that when he comes on the radio, i just go hyper! also, Ne-Yo's sexy ass is here.

Rating: 6/10

Moving Mountains - Waves

2011-05-20T04:47:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 05/10/11
Genre: Indie Rock

"Don't fall back so carelessly."

My Story: I feel like i should write a proper review for this album, (despite my poor writing abilities) because Moving Mountains is an important band for me. You see, 2007 was the year my music taste changed dramatically. It's when i became invested with music blogs, last.fm, and of course, let go of my teenage-self's music. In its place were two New York bands, The National and Moving Mountains. While Boxer ushered in my new appreciation of lyrics, Pneuma was basically a combination all the good parts of all the genres I enjoyed in the past into something seamless. When I learned that they were unsigned and younger than I, it worried me that they would never have the opportunity to pursue music full-time. So I did what any fan would do. I shared it.

I remember with Foreword, it felt like a long unwinding process where I'll check their myspace and forum each day scratching for any type of news. When release date rolled around, I've heard three of the four tracks on their EP and read pretty much every review and interview on them. Once 2009 begin, I felt done. Musically, they did what i expected them to do, yet I lost that element of surprise. I wanted something "new" again. So I stopped paying attention to the band for about two years and with news of Waves, I really had no expectations. I didn't have doubts, but I felt like I've moved on. Most of my friends know that I'm heavily into pop music these so I don't think I'm part of Moving Mountains' core audience anymore.

Review: In board terms, Waves makes the jump into comparability since their previous efforts was, in my opinion, nothing else like it. I could hear bits and pieces of other bands like Explosions in the Sky and The Appleseed Cast, but none of the bands the members of MovMou listed as an influence really gave me that fix. With Waves, I can see them grouped with other rock bands like Thursday and Thrice, (but I hardly listen to them so I won't make assumptions). I will say that compared within themselves, Waves has a more direct sound. There are epic moments, but none of the stalling.

I watched an interview with them where they said, this is their first LP as a 4 piece and Waves is a more accurate portrayal of them live. I can hear it too. There's ten fully formed songs, but I'm less compelled to listen to the album front to back. The first five songs are just ridiculous good. The opener pulled me in with the atmospheric start and it goes from control chaos to passionate chaos. Afterwards, "Where Two Bodies Lie" starts and I only heard the song once when they released it, but i feel that the first two tracks are glued together because they enhance the experience. Once it climax with "our hearts will align," things felt complete.

What I liked about "Tired Tiger" was how drowned it felt. Seems heavy. Then eventually the music just engulfs the vocals and then the chanters echo, "i can feel it, i can feel it" while the main vocals tries to survive with its screams. It's ridiculous satisfying. The beginning of "The Cascade" reminded me of "Grow on/up/out" so there's a bit of a mix feeling there, but once it hit to full power, It's probably their most accessible song to date. I begin to love that it has a familiar melody and sound and the ending again just feels magical. However, it does make me frown when the lyrics are simple.

"Once Rendering" is a softer song vocally, but the drums really walks with us until the guitars start to pump. Instead of a epic finish, they thin things out, keeping things simple. the strings here work so well. I really enjoy the way the wordless vocals float towards the end. Why you so lost?

Anyways, this is the point of the album where I hesitant to listen to the rest. I love the first five, but i know with the second half, "Full Circle" is waiting for me at the end and I've haven't falling in love with it yet. I'm not sure I will. To me, it didn't close the album. It was not an exclamation mark. Basically, it was an okay song. I actually like the second to last song better and I would not have minded if they extended that one further to use as a closer. Definitely check out "Furnace Woods."

But back to track six, "Always Only For Me" starts slow and steady, but since "Once Rendering" had that pace, i thought it was odd. I really like the ending to "Always Only For Me," but the screams and growls did not work for me this time. I didn't think they complimented one another. So minor annoyances. On "Alleviate," I'm reminded of "Lights and Shapes" because it's very fast pace, but the faint background vocals didn't work for me. It felt too distracting and it didn't resonate with me too well. I honestly felt they were on autopilot, but i can see how fun this would be for them live.

Summary: Overall, I'm glad they went with this direction because it challenges my view on music. My taste is always shifting and Waves made me happy that it kept my attention. The stuff that bugged me were only minor and I can still fine enjoyment with the whole album.

Favorite Songs: Tired Tiger, The Cascade, Furnace Woods
Rating: 8.6/10

Lady Gaga - Hair

2011-05-16T16:10:00.000-07:00

From Album: Born This Way

these promo singles are like trial and error. This song is another upbeat power pop ballad/celebration, but this one just works fully.
Rating: 9/10

Mid-Monthy-Mixtape: 2006

2011-05-14T22:01:00.000-07:00

Maybe I should just quit. I never work on these "mix" anyways.
1. Gnarls Barkley - Crazy
2. TV on the Radio - Wolf Like Me
3. The Pipettes - Pull Shapes
4. Hammock - Losing You to You
5. Joanna Newsom - Only Skin
6. The Knife - Silent Shout
7. Marit Larsen - Solid Ground
8. Meg & Dia - Rebecca
9. mewithoutYou - In A Sweater Poorly Knit
10. Nelly Furtado - Say It Right
11. Okkervil River - Another Radio Song
12. Regina Spektor - Fidelity
13. Shakira - Hips Don't Lie
14. The Fray - How to Save a Life
15. Yndi Halda - A Song For Starlit Beaches

Lady Gaga - The Edge of Glory

2011-05-09T21:32:00.000-07:00

From Album: Born This Way

Not mind blowing, but it's a soaring pop ballad. her voice is amazing. Reminds me a bit of Kelly Clarkson. but the song should have ended sooner. I felt it dragged.

Rating: 7/10

Flavors: April '11

2011-04-30T23:25:00.000-07:00

Top 5:
1. Meg & Dia - Love Is
2. PJ Harvey - On Battleship Hill
3. TV on the Radio - Killer Crane
4. Fleet Foxes - Lorelai
5. Glee - I Feel Pretty / Unpretty

Alex Turner - Submarine

2011-04-18T03:16:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 03/14/11
Genre: Singer/Songwriter

Review: Wow. I have no interest in seeing the movie this soundtrack was made for and i was never a big Arctic Monkeys fan, but i gave this a chance because i liked the album cover and I'm disappointed that this is only 6 songs long, but maybe that's the perfect length. Yeah, this is nothing ground breaking, but his voice and instrumentation is gorgeous.

Favorite Songs: Glass in the Park, It's Hard To Get Around The Wind
Rating: 7.5/10

Record Store Day

2011-04-16T23:59:00.000-07:00

It's pretty cool that this started 3 years ago when i started to pay attention to music blogs and such and now it's this world wide (or maybe not) thing. But the idea is cool. Support local record stores.

I usually get my Albums from Rasputin which is located in Campbell. It's a cool place and the prices are generally reasonable. I tend to lurk around the place eye balling any used albums i can add to my collection. Today i bought Adele's and PJ Harvey's latest albums. nothing special, but hey, buying music feels great.

Lady Gaga - Judas

2011-04-15T19:39:00.000-07:00

From Album: Born This Way

Lots of signature Gaga elements, but at 4 minutes, i don't feel it was enough. I hate the way her voice sounds during the verses. The hook for the chorus feels strong, but not something i would sing along to. This song actually lowered my expectations for the album now.

Rating: 5/10

Nicki Minaj - Super Bass

2011-04-15T18:44:00.002-07:00

From Album: Pink Friday (Deluxe Edition)

Holy Shit! I never though to check this song out because when Taylor Swift did it, it didn't sound that impressive, but now that it's on the radio, holy shit @ how fun and catchy it is plus nicki sounds like she's on fire. Why is this not on the actual album?

Rating: 9/10

Mid-Monthy-Mixtape: Banned List

2011-04-14T04:26:00.000-07:00

Songs I heard on the radio that make me hate radio.

1. Orianthi - According To You
2. Muse - Undisclosed Desires
3. Michael Franti & Spearhead - Say Hey (I Love You)
4. Angel Taylor - Like You Do
5. Jessie J - Price Tag
6. Black Eyed Peas - My Humps
7. Black Eyed Peas - Imma Be
8. Incubus - Adolescents
9. Sick Puppies - Maybe
10. Neon Trees - Animal
11. YG - Toot It And Boot It
12. Travie McCoy - Billionaire
13. Jeremih - Down On Me
14. Plain White T's - Rhythm Of Love
15. Gwen Stefani - Hollaback Girl

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - Belong

2011-04-06T22:11:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 3/29/11
Genre: Indie pop/shoegaze/lo-fi

Review: So very noisy. Has good tracks, but starts to blend.

Favorite Songs: Belong, Body, My Terrible Friend
Rating: 7.4/10

Panda Bear - Tomboy

2011-04-06T21:34:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 4/12/11
Genre: Psychedelic pop

Review: It was hard to take in the singles as he released them to the public as they didn't feel it had those "attention to detail" moments. So I barely listened to the singles, but hearing them together, i found it to be surprising well put together. Maybe my subconscious is making the connecting that i heard them before, but the sound of the first 5 tracks are a really great piece of work. The mood really switches when Drone comes on and Scheherazade two tracks later just dampens the whole flow. It's hard to tell what they add to the album. So overall, it's a strip down version of Person Pitch and standalone tracks are harder to find. Still, i think his goal of making the sound of the album to his liking succeeded.

Favorite Songs: Slow Motion, Last Night At The Jetty, Afterburner
Rating: 7.7/10

The Rural Alberta Advantage - Departing

2011-04-06T04:52:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 3/1/11
Genre: Indie Rock/Folk

Review: Well they got their feet on the ground, but it lacks the memorable melodies I found Hometowns to be so engaging.

Favorite Songs: Two Lovers, North Star, Barnes' Yard
Rating: 7.0/10

PJ Harvey - Let England Shake

2011-04-05T23:58:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 02/14/11
Genre: Rock

Review: I am such a conformist, it's true. I'm sorry. But without the positive reviews, i wouldn't have given this much thought. Compare to her other works, i found this to be her most accessible and it flowed so well one song to the next. Good sound, good lyrics, good voice. This album is pretty special.

Favorite Songs:The Words That Maketh Murder, On Battleship Hill, England
Rating: 9.3/10

Dirty Beaches - Badlands

2011-04-04T23:54:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 3/28/11
Genre: lo-fi

Review: Artsy yes, enjoyable no. It's tough because I think i know what his goals are as an artist, but as a recording artist, it's not really good music. Imagine being in the 1950s and listening to what your brother is listening to in his room by pressing your ear on the walls. It's weird like that. Very fuzzy Elvis type of music, but without a define statement.

Favorite Songs: Sweet 17, True Blue
Rating: 5.5/10

The National - Think You Can Wait

2011-04-03T04:44:00.000-07:00

From Soundtrack: Win Win

They are my favorite band for a reason.

Rating: 8/10

Lykke Li - Wounded Rhymes

2011-04-03T02:31:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 2/25/11
Genre: Indie pop

"these scars of mine make wounded rhymes tonight"

Review: She's from Sweden. Her voice is child-like. Imaginative. Maybe hipsterish. There's something adorable about her like she sees the world in a different light. On this album, her tone is more dark. Someone hurt her and she sounds more in control of her music. She even declares herself as a prostitute in one song. Whatever happened, I believe in her.

Favorite Songs: Love Out of Lust, Unrequited Love, Sadness Is A Blessing
Rating: 8.4/10

Chris Brown - F.A.M.E.

2011-04-03T00:28:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 3/22/11
Genre: R&B

Review: All the pretty young things at the party. Let me see your hands up. And if they mad and they don't wanna party. Tell them shut the fuck up.

If he wasn't such a great dancer, I would not have cared. His radio singles are really good car driving songs and i understand the entire album can't be adrenaline pumping, but when he tries to show depth, the autotune gets in the way. I know i'm not his target audience, but i was really rooting for him to impressed me. Go Bieber!

Favorites Songs: Deuces, Yeah 3x, Next 2 You
Rating: 4.0/10

Smith Westerns - Dye It Blonde

2011-04-02T19:39:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 1/18/11
Genre: 70's inspired Glam rock

"love is lovely when you are young"

Review: I had such massive writer's block on this one which is how my NY's resolution of updating this blog got broken. you see, this album is pretty amazing upfront, but it starts to repeat itself again so it's tough to say if this album is good because they are talented or simply because it's something new to my ears and they use their fuzzy guitars to their finest. It's worth checking out if you like lo-fi garage sounds.

Key Tracks: Weekend, Imagine Pt. 3, All Die Young
Rating: 7.8/10

Radiohead - The King of Limbs

2011-04-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 2/18/11 (digital)
Genre: Alternative Rock

Review: I'm such a phony! I didn't start listening to Radiohead religiously until early 2009. KoL is the first new album of theirs where I was comfortable with their sound and yeah, it's not as captivating as their past work, but something about it makes me want to return. It's interesting stuff, but has a layer of boredom.

Favorite Songs: Bloom, Feral, Lotus Flower
Rating: 7.2/10

Cut Copy - Zonoscope

2011-04-02T18:50:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 2/7/11
Genre: Electropop

Review: At first, i didn't think much of this album because it didn't have those instant catchy songs and i felt it was too 80's for my taste, but i learned to accept it for what it is.

Favorite Songs: Need You Now, Blink And You'll Miss A Revolution, Alisa
Rating: 7.9/10

Yellowcard - When You're Through Thinking, Say Yes

2011-04-02T03:44:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 3/22/11
Genre: Poppunk

Review: Man, this takes me back. Yellowcard should have been a band that i latched on to, but they felt like an all around teen band so everyone took parts of them so it was less personal for myself. Still, I always found them to be easy to digest. This album is fun and i enjoy the energy. That's all you need to know.

Favorite Songs: For You, And your Denial, With You Around, See Me Smiling
Rating: 6.5/10

The Strokes - Angles

2011-04-02T02:00:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 3/22/11
Genre: Rock

Review: When The Stokes last released an album in 2006, it was the same year where I started keeping track of current music. So up until mid 2009, all i heard about The Strokes were that they were suppose to be the saviors of rock, but ended up being a joke. Then when it was time for 00's decade list, it literally felt that the support for Is This It came from nowhere.

The band said that Angles was going to be a lot like their debut and for the songs that do, I really enjoyed. Then they have songs that really wander off, but because of Julian Casablancas's distinct vocals, it holds the sound together. I just don't find them to be repeatable. The flow of the first five songs are so well done, it's just the ending felt half assed and messy.

Favorite Songs: Under Cover of Darkness, Taken For a Fool, Call Me Back
Rating: 6.7/10

Lupe Fiasco - Lasers

2011-04-02T01:21:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 3/8/11
Genre: Hip Hop

Review: Yikes. I like Lupe and wanted Lasers to be a his crown achievement in hip hop, but some/a lot of these songs make me embarrassed. Aside from the Modest Mouse sample, The Show Goes On, I'm not really digging his chorus or guest artist that failed to heighten the song. And worst of all, I don't feel like Lupe gave his all during his verses.

Favorite Songs: Till I Get There, I Don't Wanna Care Right Now, Never Forget You
Rating: 4.8/10

Explosions in the Sky - Take Care, Take Care, Take Care

2011-04-02T00:12:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 4/26/11
Genre: Post-Rock

Review: If I ever made you a mix-CD between '05-'08, I probably used Explosions in the Sky's music as my secret weapons. Yeah, these guys are climatic. Lots of bands come and go within the genre of instrumental rock and the comparisons are noticeable. On their 6th album, the band delivers on what they are known for. I almost feel guilty criticizing them because it still sounds like an EitS album. Considering that I'm very familiar with their catalog and once considered them to be untouchable, Take Care x3 doesn't provide an addition to their music. What I loved about them was how they can transcribe emotions without words, but this album left me feeling uninspired. Or maybe I've changed.

Favorite Songs: Last Known Surroundings, Postcard From 1952
Rating: 5.6/10

Birtney Spears - Femme Fatale

2011-04-01T22:40:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 3/25/11
Genre: Dance/Pop

Review: Hurray for Britney! Sometimes auto-tune is used effectively (Trip To Your Heart) and other times, it feels excessive((Drop Dead) Beautiful), but hey, she's a nice escape from reality. The first 5 tracks really kept me going, but towards the end, the sound didn't feel special enough. Like it wasn't Britney bringing her game, it was the producers. Still, Til The World Ends is ridiculous good.

Favorite Songs: Til The World Ends, I Wanna Go, How I Roll
Rating: 6.3/10

Flavors: March '11

2011-03-31T23:29:00.000-07:00

Top 5
1. Katy Perry - E.T. Ft Kanye West
2. Britney Spears - Til The World Ends
3. The Strokes - Taken for A Fool
4. Lady Gaga - Born This Way (The Country Road Version)
5. Childish Gambino - Freaks And Geeks

Rebecca Black - Friday

2011-03-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks Rebecca for setting the standards! despite the low score, I'll probably remember this song more than a 5/10 type of song. Plus I'm really curious if she can top/redeem herself.

Rating: 1/10

Mid-Monthy-Mixtape: March '11

2011-03-14T02:54:00.000-07:00

No theme, these are just songs from the top of my head.

1. Jennifer Lopez - On The Floor ft. Pitbull
2. The Script - For The First Time
3. Ke$ha - Blow
4. Linkin Park - Waiting Till the End
5. Britney Spears - Til The World Ends
6. Ne-Yo - Miss Independent
7. Katy Perry - E.T.
8. Taio Cruz - Higher
9. Chris Brown - Yeah x3
10. [that one song on 100.9]
11. DEV - Bass Down Low ft. The Cataracs
12. Enrique Iglesias - Tonight (I'm Lovin' You)
13. Edward Maya & Vika Jigulina - Stereo Love
14. P!nk - Fuckin' Perfect
15. Jay Sean – Hit The Lights (Feat Lil Wayne)

Adele - 21

2011-03-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 2/22/11
Genre: Singer-songwriter, Neo Soul

Review: I'm tempted to just write "holy shit" for being so surprised in how impressed I am, i mean, sure it's not groundbreaking music and compared to the only other song i heard from her, "Chasing Pavements," I feel that she really came onto her own now. Before, i thought she was one of those UK girls riding on Amy Winehouse's coattail, but on 21, Basically every song is crazy good. I always treasure artist that are real and Adele makes me feel that every word she burps out is true. Who ever broke her heart deserves props.

Favorite Songs: Set Fire to the Rain, I'll Be Waiting, Someone Like You
Rating: 8.6/10

Mike Posner - Bow Chicka Wow Wow ft. Lil Wayne

2011-03-01T23:15:00.000-08:00

From Album: 31 Minutes to Takeoff

Once I throw on this, once I throw on this, it's over girl. HAHAHA.

Rating: 3/10

Flavors: Feb '11

2011-02-28T01:23:00.000-08:00

Top 5:
1. Lady Gaga - Born This Way
2. The Strokes - Under The Cover of Darkness
3. Panda Bear - Last Night At The Jetty
4. Adele - Rolling in the Deep
5. Maroon 5 - Never Gonna Leave This Bed

The Strokes - Under Cover Of Darkness

2011-02-15T23:56:00.000-08:00

From Album: Angles

well well, this song makes me excited for their full length.

Rating: 8/10

Michelle Branch - Take a Chance on Me

2011-02-15T23:23:00.000-08:00

From Album: (Unreleased)

Michelle Branch is untouchable in my eyes. In terms of enjoyability, it's cool. But if i'm at my worst, it's a whatever song.

Rating: 5/10

Mid-Monthy-Mixtape: Loveminders

2011-02-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

What happened to the reviews? o well. I haven't been trying to seek out new music because I've been repeating my mix pretty much everyday. I started thinking about this one since December. Partly inspirited by my blu friend and partly motivated to explore the romantic side in me, except, love can mean so many things to so many people. But in my case, these are the songs that remind me about love. Not necessarily romantic love, but just being 'loved.'

1. The Supremes - You Can't Hurry Love
2. Stars - My Favourite Book
3. ceo - Halo (Beyoncé Cover)
4. Robyn - Hang With Me
5. New Order - Bizarre Love Triangle
6. Sufjan Stevens - Futile Devices
7. Delorean - Grow
8. Sade - By Your Side
9. Alica Keys - If I Ain't Got You
10. Feist - Inside and Out
11. The Format - Inches and Falling
12. The Zombies - The Way I Feel Inside
13. Lifehouse - Take Me Away (Acoustic)
14. The New Pornographers - Bleeding Heart Show
[hidden]

Lady Gaga - Born This Way

2011-02-11T15:06:00.000-08:00

From Album: Born This Way

the spoken words part..you know, the mandonna-ish vogue homage..please stop. but her singing is amazing here. and the song just seems so over-the-top and mighty gay.

Rating: 8/10

Flavors: Jan '11

2011-01-31T00:01:00.000-08:00

I did this on my old blog before RPC where i would take notice of my top 5 favorite songs for that month. So here we go.

Top 5:
1. James Blake - Limit To Your Love
2. Cut Copy - Blink and You'll Miss A Revolution
3. Destroyer - Kaputt
4. Tennis - Marathon
5. Smith Westerns - All Die Young

YUI - It's My Life

2011-01-26T01:14:00.000-08:00

From Album: possible 5th album?

Not a Bon jovi cover. Pretty fun spirited. And check out that smile!

Rating: 7/10

Yellowcard - For You, and Your Denial

2011-01-24T23:22:00.000-08:00

From Album: When You're Through Thinking Say Yes

I thought this band went on hiatus. Anyways, i forgotten what this band sounds like and this first single from their upcoming album reminds me a lot of early 00s pop punks. I'm actually curious what the rest of the album sounds like.

Rating: 6/10

Michelle Branch - Texas in the Mirror

2011-01-24T22:57:00.000-08:00

From Album: Everything Comes and Goes (unreleased)

I'm so sad. This song is so good. sure it sounds country, but it's no lame country. It's singer-songwriter type and it's the direction i longed for her to take. no cheesiness, just passion for making music that means something.

Rating: 8/10

Tapes 'n Tapes - Outside

2011-01-17T09:03:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 01/11/11
Genre: Indie Rock

up inside the moment i thought you knew

I enjoyed this album more than expected. The first 2/3 kept my attention, but somehow after "Freak Out" I couldn't feel excitement anymore.

Favorite Songs: SWM, One in the World, Freak Out
Rating: 7.1/10

Mid-Monthly-Mixtape: Pre-Branch

2011-01-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Okay. New Monthly thing I hope will catch on. I love making mix CDs so most likely these will just be what I'm currently into for that month, unless I have a theme. Because this is the first, I though it'll be fun to make a mix of stuff before i actually "liked" music. Now you'll understand why people don't trust my judgment.

Tracklist:
1. Passions Theme
2. B*Witched - C'est la Vie
3. Mandy Moore - Crush
4. Shaggy - Angel
5. Dr. Dre - Forget About Dre
6. Jessica Andrews - Helplessly, Hopelessly
7. Azn Dreamer? - Fixing a Broken Heart
8. Lisa Loeb - Stay (I Missed You)
9. Natalie Imbruglia - Torn
10. BBMak - The Ghost of You and Me
11. Wheatus - Teenage Dirtbag
12. The Corrs - Breathless
13. N'Sync - It's Gonna Be Me
14. Britney Spears - Lucky
15. O-Town - All or Nothing

Long Story Short - What A Scene

2011-01-13T22:04:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 12/21/10 (digitally)
Genre: Alternative Rock

there will be a sunrise

Usually unsigned bands make an EP first or play live shows, but these guys have enough in them to make a full proper release. It's not perfect, and although I prefer some tracks over another, I can't fault them for it. It's a very respectable debut album in that regards, but the band does stick with familiar formulas and niche genre cliche. Still, I keep coming back to this album because the album feels true, down to earth and the lyrics aren't blown out of proportion. They aren't trying to impress anyone. They feel real. I know I could say that about any album and ultimately, the gray area between imitation and making references is up to the listener, all I can really say is that Long Story Short makes me believe.

Favorite Songs: Summer Nights, What Mattered Most, Forever
Rating: 8.0/10

Kanye West & Jay-Z - H.A.M.

2011-01-13T20:37:00.000-08:00

[insert clip from youtube]

From Album: Watch The Throne

boring

rating: 3/10

Carissa's Wierd — They'll Only Miss You When You Leave: Songs 1996-2003

2011-01-12T21:18:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 07/13/10
Genre: Sadcore

i want to die, die

I listen to the hell out of this album last year. Sad music can tiptoe on the sad fence, but what I find fascinating with this band is how their instrumentation sounds so fully developed. I was mostly familiar with their Songs About Leaving album, but the songs that were new to me fit very well. I can't get into any of their new musical projects, but together, they seem so perfect.

Favorite Songs: Die, Drunk with the Only Saints I Know, So You Wanna Be A Superhero
Rating: 9.0/10

Britney Spears - Hold It Against Me

2011-01-11T02:54:00.000-08:00

From Album: upcoming seventh album?

I would never hold it against you gurl, but omg. check out the dubstep/europop influence? I'm just not digging her vocals.

Rating: 6/10

Noah and the Whale - L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N.

2011-01-10T03:59:00.000-08:00

From Album: Last Night On Earth

N.I.C.E.

Rating: 7/10

Cake - Showroom of Compassion

2011-01-10T03:53:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 01/11/11
Genre: Rock

*trumpet*

Never been a Cake fan and this album hasn't changed my mind, but it sure does sound like Cake. In the end, will I ever return to this album?

Favorite Songs: Got To Move, The Winter, Italian Guy
Rating: 6.5/10

Jessie J - Do It Like A Dude

2011-01-09T02:14:00.000-08:00

Are you sure BBC? This is the next big thing? She co-wrote "Party in the USA!!!" Her voice isn't terrible, but this particular song style doesn't stand out.

Rating: 2/10

Braids - Native Speaker

2011-01-08T22:25:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 01/18/11
Genre: Experimental, folk

all we really want to do is love

It's like a female version of Feels era Animal Collective, but what the hell happened after track 3? epic boredom. First two tracks gave me such high hopes and it just dragged on after.

Favorite Songs: Lemonade, Plath Heart, Little Hand
Rating: 5.5/10

James Blake - James Blake

2011-01-08T20:35:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 02/07/11
Genre: Minimal, Ambient, Dubstep

*vibrations*

Vocally it reminds me of Antony Hegarty and Bon Iver (autotuned), but musically, I'm not sure what this is. There's no doubt that this album is different from what I'm used to. I love melodies and this album is lacking clear ones. I did enjoy the first half of the album a lot more. Like a lot more. The second half had too much singing with sparse music. Still, interesting textures used here and a lot of understated sounds.

Favorite Songs: I Never Learnt to Share, Lindesfarne II, Limit To Your Love
Rating: 8.1/10

Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

2011-01-07T22:47:00.001-08:00

Release Date: 11/22/10
Genre: Rap, hip-hop

no one man should have all that power

(copy/paste from my year end list)
Who could have predicted that after the vma incident, Kanye would released his Magnum opus. Similar to how i embraced gaga after last year's vma's, it was Kanye's performance at this year's vma's that got me amped up for his latest album because based on the previous rumored title, "Good Ass Job," i was thinking it'll just be like another hip-hop album like Graduation and although it lingers on the rap/hip hop side, it feels so much more. Production wise, this album is loaded with great samples and great hooks, but what makes this album so bold is how it basically doesn't follow the model of traditional rap albums with tracks averaging the 5-6 minute mark. Lyrically, it deals with Kanye's fame, love, and insecurities moving from his highs and lows. Aside from "All of the Lights," none of the songs really say radio friendly, yet his delivery is stronger than ever that lyrics actually stick with me and none of the guest stars are out of their element. They only highen the songs. I love that Kanye is aware of his egomaniac personality and can step back and self-evaluates. This album basically lets listeners into his creative mind. It blows me away how much effort was put into this record. It's hard to expect anything less now.

Favorite Songs: Dark Fantasy, All of the Lights, Blame Game
Rating: 9.5/10

Avril Lavigne - What The Hell

2011-01-07T02:21:00.000-08:00

From Album: Goodbye Lullaby

It's pop. It's Avril. It's crazy. Hopefully this song encourages girls to mess around, but she said this is the only upbeat song and the rest of the album will more grown up and mellow. So we'll see.

Rating: 5/10

The Gaslight Anthem - American Slang

2011-01-06T09:43:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 06/14/10

Genre: Punk Rock/Heartland

look what you started

For completion sake, I'm gonna review this album as I've discovered The Gaslight Anthem around the same time I started my blog, plus I've reviewed everything in their discography so far (1,2,3) so I must index it. So after The '59 Sound, what direction could they go? I knew it was great, but not even close to their 2nd album. The first record was loud punk. The second was folk punk. The 3rd is definitely moving away from punk and towards a Bruce Springsteen sound. Some of the songs feel like rehashes of their past work, but after The Diamond Church Street Choir and onward, any comparison feels irrelevant. These guys love to show who their influences are and Brian Fallon's shows so much passion, I believe him.

Favorite Songs: The Queen of Lower Chelsea, Orphans, The Spirit of Jazz
Rating: 8.2/10

Diddy-Dirty Money - Coming Home ft. Skylar Grey

2011-01-06T00:20:00.000-08:00

From Album: Last Train To Paris

Don't you hate it when a song starts really good and then some dude starts to rap?

Rating: 8/10

Tennis - Cape Dory

2011-01-05T11:43:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 01/18/11
Genre: 60s inspired Pop

Coconut Grove is a very small cove

I don't like the album cover, but that's not important. These two are married and went 7 months on a sailboat, which led to them creating music together. It sounds lo-fi and there's still a dream pop atmosphere, but it's a lot more shinny. Like the hooks are either there (Long Boat Pass, Marathon) or not (Bimini Bay, Pigeon). For the songs that work, it's something worth holding on to.

Favorite Songs: Marathon, South Carolina, Seafarer
Rating: 7.3/10

Destroyer - Kaputt

2011-01-04T23:20:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 01/25/11
Genre: Indie Rock

*saxophone solo*

This is interesting. I tried listening to Destroyer's Rubies a few years back, wasn't what i was into at the time, but when i got into The New Pornographer, it were Dan Bejar's tracks that stood out. I was expecting this album to be filled with that Canadian rock sound, but Kaputt was more in the same style of the Bay of Pigs EP. As a whole, it works very well. The sound is mellow 80s, slow disco with some ambient elements. But it's still engaging during the parts where he sings the melodies. They just sink into me. I also love the female vocals that never takes over, but sort of softens Bejar's distinct voice.

Favorite Songs: Chinatown, Suicide Demo For Kara Walker, Kaputt
Rating: 8.7/10

The Decemberists - The King Is Dead

2011-01-03T19:37:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 01/18/11
Genre: Folk Rock

Maybe I should just “let it be”

Alright, let's see. The Decemberists are one of my favorite bands that it's hard to be objective. Their music and lyrics just makes me feel smart and it's great escapism. I know lots of people didn't enjoy Hazards of Love, I liked it just fine, but it was easily my least favorite release from The Decemberists. On the new album, the overall tone feels simpler, less ambitious, more country. I can't say it's more personal, but it feels effortless. And it also takes less effort to dive into.

Favorite Songs: Calamity Song, Rox In The Box, January Hymn
Rating: 7.6/10

Michelle Branch - The Spirit Room

2011-01-03T07:44:00.000-08:00

Release Date: 08/14/01
Genre: Pop Rock

and all you wanted was somebody who cared

Review: How cute, blogger loves to autosave my entries. I started this review back on July 1st, 2009 and was planning to post it the next day in honor of Meech's 26th birthday, but lack of motivation killed me. Well I feel relaxer now and I suppose less hesitant to get my words out. At one time, this was my favorite album of all times mainly because it was my first album that i truly adored and perhaps maybe the only album that mattered to a 15 year old.

So an album like this certainly deserves a proper tribute. I still remembered my first impression of Michelle Branch back in 2001. Carson Daly lightly talked about her on TRL and said she would be big. I thought the song was okay, but she couldn't dance so what's the point? Still, there was something about her that made me remember. Around Jan '02, I was listening to my cheap alarm clock slash radio and they were doing a new song battle and All You Wanted was playing and I didn't know who it was at the time, but i knew it reminded me of Branch and after I found out, I was just like, "wow, that was a lot better." Yeah, it wasn't life changing.

Now, being a guy, liking pop music wasn't looked up upon. The first mix CD i made a girl, she said it was too girly. But I wasn't a horny teenager (hi rap) or a rebellious teen (hi punk), I was just an awkward boy that just wanted someone to care about. So The Spirit Room was my refuges for those thoughts i wasn't ready to share with anyone yet. And it wasn't like I got the album as a gift. All i had were two of her songs. Yep, this was before Youtube, DSL, and me having a personal computer. I remember visiting her message board, lurking and downloading everything, reading everything and marking down dates on when she'll make TV appearances and then setting up my VCR to record. It was exciting to be a fan. I added Goodbye to You to my mp3 folder once she performed it on Last Call with Carson Daly and i slowly accumulated more of her tracks until i had them all. Thanks iMesh!

So basically my sophomore/junior year, The Spirit Room was the album that shaped me. It's hard to have another album like it as my music process has changed. When The Spirit Room was all I had, the songs seem to unfold with repeated listens, i got to a point where i memorized every background vocal and could isolate each melody in my head. Of course, i had other music, but Michelle was role model.

And because this is a music blog, I know i have to describe the music. It's pop! Well sadly, at least for me, the album feels outdated with the exception of All You Wanted. Lot of newcoming female singer/songwriters sorta killed the mood for me. It's the reason why i needed to branch (pun) out my musical taste. But because she's literally the first, I always point to her whenever i hear similarities.

Of course, this album is not a masterpiece. I don't expect anyone these days to point at this album as one of the greatest. The lyrics are pretend because she wrote most of the album when she was inexperience, i believe she was 14-16 when she wrote most of them. But we all have a beginning and Michelle Branch was the trigger that got me into music.

Summary: Michelle Branch is my beginning.

Favorite Songs: All You Wanted, I'd Rather Be in Love, Goodbye To You
Rating: 7.2/10

Train - Marry Me

2011-01-02T21:08:00.000-08:00

From Album: Save Me San Francisco

I heard this song on the radio and though it was From Where You Are, but it's not. What the fuck Train, you guys are hilarious.

Rating: 3/10

2011: Happy New Year's

2011-01-01T00:01:00.001-08:00

hmm, alright~ Let's see if i can keep this going. 1 post per day? That's too much. 5 lazy reviews a week~!! No more format! And the return of Song of the Week? !! /broken promises.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T23:03:00.000-08:00

When I first heard this song, I declared it my favorite Christmas related song. And as I want to get back into the habit of not abandoning this blog, here it is.

"And my friends, I've returned to wish you a happy Christmas."

2010: Album(s) of the Year

2010-12-05T04:40:00.000-08:00

What happened to your new year's resolution?

========================================

25. Fang Island - Fang Island

This might as well be an instrumental album because the singing is just another layer for me. At only 31 minutes, the songs move fairly quick without any major changes. I feel that it works only as a whole and they have this young, maybe 8-bit smile that's just really sunny and joyous.
Favorite Songs: Careful Crossers, Daisy, Sideswiper
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Daisy

24. Arcade Fire - The Suburbs

None of the songs here are awful, but I find it difficulty to listen to this album without skipping (Rococo, Half Light I, Month of May), but then there are songs that are really amazing.
Favorite Songs: Ready To Start, City With No Children, Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains)
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Ready To Start

23. The Roots - How I Got Over

Because they are now the house band for Jimmy Fallon, I figured their best days were behind them. But as i grew to enjoy Jimmy's Late Night, so did my love for The Roots. "How I Got Over" is basically a great album and because they use live instruments, it has more soul. I like how smooth overall it is.
Favorite Songs: Walk Alone, Now or Never, The Fire
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Dear God 2.0

22. Girl Talk - All Day

"All he does is take other people's music." So yeah, compared to Feed The Animal, Greg Grills goes less artistic and adventurous and basically keeps the songs faithful to themselves, like there's usually a main source and the main vocal with good transitions in between. I find it to be enjoyable, but it didn't make me jump out of my seat like his '08 album did. Plus it's fun to play "spot the sample."
Favorite section: - Down for the Count

21. Laura Marling - I Speak Because I Can

My Love.
Favorite Songs: Blackberry Stone, Goodbye England (Covered In Snow), What He Wrote
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Blackberry Stone

========================================

20. Surfer Blood - Astro Coast

Heck yeah afrobeat! This band knows how to make dynamic music. Great pacing as well.
Favorite Songs: Swim, Slow Jabroni, Catholic Pagans
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Swim

19. Gorillaz - Plastic Beach

From what I heard in the past, nothing on "Plastic Beach" really said "Feel Good Inc" or even "Clint Eastwood" so i mistakenly dismissed it. Thankfully I gave it another chance when a friend of mine asked if i had this album.
Favorite Songs: Rhinestone Eyes, Superfast Jellyfish, On Melancholy Hill
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's On Melancholy Hill

18. Wolf Parade - Expo 86

I love Spencer Krug. [inserts reasons why and explain how Krug and Dan Boeckner made Expo 86 feel united]
Favorite Songs: What Did My Lover Say? (It Always Had To Go This Way), Pobody's Nerfect, Yulia
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's What Did My Lover Say?

17. LCD Soundsystem - This is Happening

Dance-punk! Well not much different from Sound of Silver.
Favorite Songs: All I Want, I Can Change, Home
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Home

16. She & Him - Volume Two

<3 Zooey
Favorite Songs: Don't Look Back, Lingering Still, Over It Over Again
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's In The Sun

========================================

15. Deerhunter - Halcyon Digest

Borderlines on shoe-gaze and pop with a fragile vocalist, this album is pretty spacey.
Favorite Songs: Desire Lines, Helicopter, He Would Have Laugh
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Helicopter

14. The Gaslight Anthem - American Slang

It would have been amazing if this album was a masterpiece. Instead, this is an album that insures the fans The Gaslight Anthem know who they are.
Favorite Songs: The Queen of Lower Chelsea, Orphans, The Spirit of Jazz
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's American Slang

13. Sun Airway - Nocturne Of Exploded Crystal Chandelier

A beautiful and sometimes ambient album.
Favorite Songs: Oh, Naoko, Waiting on You, Put the Days Away
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's American West

12. Robyn - Body Talk

I didn't bother listening to p.1 and p.2 so hearing the final package for the first time was seriously ridiculously catchy. 2010 was a year where i embraced the radio single and "Body Talk" has so much of them. Lots of it is dance, but i like how celebratory it feels as well as its more intimate moments. For those that complain that pop music has no substance, Robyn isn't one of them.
Favorite Songs: Dancing On My Own, Hang With Me, Call Your Girlfriend
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Hang With Me

11. Delorean - Subiza

Seems like every year, there's a summer breezy dance album that I can't put down. 08 was Air France, 09 was jj, and now this year it's Delorean. Sometimes it feels a bit like Panda Bear because of the male vocal harmonies. I don't know what they are saying most of the time, but I just know it sounds good.
Favorite Songs: Stay Close, Grow, Simple Graces
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Stay Close

========================================

10. Owen Pallett - Heartland/A Swedish Love Story

Very Adventurist
Favorite Songs: The Great Elsewhere, Lewis Takes off His Shirt, Tryst With Mephistopheles
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Lewis Takes off His Shirt

9. Taylor Swift - Speak Now

Swift is a prime example of a star who shines so bright, that even anti-country fans like myself need something to satisfy their curiosity. What made me love "Fearless" was how easy it was to picture these songs as stories and seeing them through her eyes while realizing that she's still a human being. "Speak Now" is basically that step after.
Favorite Songs: Sparks Fly, Back To December, The Story of Us
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Sparks Fly

8. Titus Andronicus - The Monitor

I don't know how old these guys are, but their loose concept album about the civil war really sums up what it's like being young and growing. It's also a very manly album with manly vocals and manly growls. It does feel like these guys are preparing for a battle and I love the guitars in this because it's so flashy, but melodic. my best way to sum it up, it kicks ass.
Favorite Songs: A More Perfect Union, No Future Part Three: Escape From No Future, Theme From "Cheers"
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's A More Perfect Union

7. Janelle Monae - The ArchAndroid

"Tightrope" did nothing for me until i saw her on Letterman. When i finally give it the listen it deserved, I was taken back. It's a concept album of her alter ego that time travels which is cool, but I can't relate to it. Still, her genre jumping and drive to succeed makes this album an amazing experience. It's like seeing a movie with no visuals.
Favorite Songs: Cold War, Oh, Maker, 57821
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Tightrope

6. Sufjan Stevens - The Age of Adz/All Delighted People

Whenever i look up wikipedia entries for artist that have been around for 20+ years, there's usually a peak period and I always feel bad for the follow up albums that never receive attention. With no words on a proper follow up to Illinois, I was beginning to accept that Sufjan's golden era was long gone. Then perhaps a smart move, he surprised the whole online music community with an EP and announced "The Age of Adz" soon after. Even with an open mind, The Age of Adz is a lot to take in. Covering it all is glitchy electronics, but his sweeping instrumentation can be found. To say this is an experimental album is an understatement. Still, Sufjan captures a more personal narrative about life and death and I'm glad he's pushing himself.
Favorite Songs: Age of Adz, Vesuvius, Impossible Soul
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Too Much

========================================

5. The Tallest Man on Earth - The Wild Hunt/Sometimes the Blues is Just a Passing Bird

So he sorta sounds like Bob Dylan and on paper, it's still mostly an album with a guy and his guitar. But since the first day I gave The Wild Hunt a proper listen, the album hasn't lost any of its heart. Somehow, this man created some deep powerful sounds that continue to draw emotion from me. Not enough to shard a tear, but his untrained voice has so much passion, it doesn't seem real.
Favorite Songs: Troubles Will Be Gone, Love is All, A Lion's Heart
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Love is All

4. Beach House - Teen Dream

I used to think Victoria Legrand's voice was rather disgusting for a female. It was very deep and throaty, but there was something about "Zebra" that made me come back to the album. Eventually i allowed "Team Dream" to fully play out and now i find her voice soothing and sensual. The 2-piece band uses a keyboard, guitar and a drum machine. I visualize the songs to be a liquidity mixture and this album just lightly stirs it up. I love how Victoria can cradle words and slur them. She displays longing so well. Sometimes I'll get lost and she'll draw me back in.
Favorite Songs: Zebra, Norway, 10 Mile Stereo
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Used To Be

3. Joanna Newsom - Have One On Me

A triple album?! I was thrilled, but nervous. Ms. Newsom is one of a kind and two hours of her in her distinct style made me think that she had nobody to teach her about bonus tracks, but to my enjoyment, the album works as individual disk or as a collective whole. I didn't think she could surpass "Ys" but "Have One on Me" certainly feels like its own fairy tale. When she plays the harp, it's magical. I get enchanted into her world. Her voice has gotten prettier and there's so much hidden melodies in her songs. With 18 songs, this album will last me awhile.
Favorite Songs: Good Intentions Paving Company, In California, Ribbon Bows
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's On a Good Day

2. The National - High Violet

Are The National the band of my twenties? It certainly feels that way. Having discovered them with Boxer in 2007 and having them grow on me throughout the past 2 years, I wasn't sure what step they could possibly take on their new album that could impact me as much. I just wanted it to be their best. "High Violet" is much of the same as "Boxer", but with less finger-picking and more casualness. Songs like "Runaway" and "Terrible Love" immediately grabbed me, but the whole album came together with repeated listens. Most of the bands I follow seem to have reached their peak, but "High Violet" is a display of a band doing their own thing and perfecting their sound. These guys are at in their prime.
Favorite Songs: Terrible Love, Lemonworld, Conversation 16
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Terrible Love

1. Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

Who could have predicted that after the vma incident, Kanye would released his Magnum opus. Similar to how i embraced gaga after last year's vma's, it was Kanye's performance at this year's vma's that got me amped up for his latest album because based on the previous rumored title, "Good Ass Job," i was thinking it'll just be like another hip-hop album like Graduation and although it lingers on the rap/hip hop side, it feels so much more. Production wise, this album is loaded with great samples and great hooks, but what makes this album so bold is how it basically doesn't follow the model of traditional rap albums with tracks averaging the 5-6 minute mark. Lyrically, it deals with Kanye's fame, love, and insecurities moving from his highs and lows. Aside from "All of the Lights," none of the songs really say radio friendly, yet his delivery is stronger than ever that lyrics actually stick with me and none of the guest stars are out of their element. They only highen the songs. I love that Kanye is aware of his egomaniac personality and can step back and self-evaluates. This album basically lets listeners into his creative mind. It blows me away how much effort was put into this record. It's hard to expect anything less now.
Favorite Songs: All of the Lights, Blame Game, Lost in the World
if you only have time for one song, make sure it's Runaway

2010: Song(s) of the Year

2010-12-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

===============
Honorable mention: Anything from schmoyoho
===============

25. Sun Airway - Oh, Naoko
A very airy song.
"i'll be there when you call my name"

24. Taylor Swift - Back To December
I accept your apology.
"Your guard is up and I know why"

23. Yeasayer - O.N.E
jungle jam.
"Control me like you used to"

22. Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti - Round and Round
Slow disco; chorus gives chills.
"Hold on, I'm calling, calling back to the Bowl"

21. Far East Movement - Like A G6 feat. The Cataracs and Dev
Guilty pleasure 2010.
"like a blizzard"

========================================

20. Eminem - Love The Way You Lie Feat. Rihanna
summer 2010.
"When a tornado meets a volcano"

19. Hot Chip - I Feel Better
dramatic+autotuned+dance.
"I only want one night"

18. Cee Lo Green - Fuck You
Motown!
"ain't that some shit"

17. Katy Perry - Teenage Dream
Teen pregnancy!
"Don't ever look back"

16. Lifehouse - Wrecking Ball
Bryce!
"I gravitate to you"

========================================

15. Robyn - Dancing On My Own
Wait, she was on Gossip Girls?
"I'm right over here, why can't you see me?"

14. Delorean - Stay Close
Ride that wave!
"Get up Get up Get up Get up"

13. Bruno Mars - Just The Way You Are
The purest love song of the year!
"If perfect is what you're searching for then just stay the same"

12. The Radio Dept. - Heaven's On Fire
Positive energy.
"When I look at you, heaven's on fire"

11. Owen Pallett - Lewis Takes Off His Shirt
Centerpiece.
"I'm never gonna give it to you"

========================================

10. Jónsi - Animal Arithmetic
Childhood.
"We should all be alive"

9. Kanye West - All Of The Lights
11 guest.
"(all of the lights, all of the lights)"

8. Arcade Fire - Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains)
Hi Liz.
"I need the darkness, someone please cut the lights"

7. The Tallest Man On Earth - The Dreamer
He's pretty short.
"just enough dark to see how you're the light over me"

6. Sufjan Stevens - Impossible Soul
25 minutes.
"Boy we can do much more together"

========================================

5. LCD Soundsystem - All I Want
All My Friends p2.
"all I want is your pity or at least all I want are your bitter tears"

4. Joanna Newsom - In California
She plays the Harp!
"I don't belong to anyone"

3. Deerhunter - He Would Have Laughed
Last 2 minutes. =/
"Where did my friends go?"

2. The National - Conversation 16
Zombies!
"I want to believe in everything you believe"

1. Beach House - 10 Mile Stereo
I wish this song would last foreverrrr.

"It can't be gone, we're still right here"

2010: Best 'new to me" or rediscoveries or compilation...

2010-12-01T01:12:00.000-08:00

I failed. I was suppose to explore the 90s this year, but I simply got bored.

====================

Cheap Trick - Surrender
Team Coco!!!

The Dickies - Banana Splits
Thank you Hit Girl

Paramore - The Only Exception
Thank you Hayley

Train - Hey Soul Sister
overplayed now, but for the most part of early 2010, this song was my instant 'smile' song. So cute. The "so gangsta, I'm so thug" line is hilarious.

David Guetta - Memories (Featuring Kid Cudi)
The beat is so addictive.

John Mayer - Half Of My Heart
I some how missed this gem of a song on his so-so album. After hearing it on the radio so many times, it grow on me. Plus Taylor Swift is in it!

Girls' Generation - Gee
Why does it take 9 members to sing a song? o well, this is the best k-pop song ever made.

====================

Carissa's Wierd - They'll Only Miss You When You Leave: Songs 1996-2003
If i included compilation albums, this would be in my top 10.

Pavement - Quarantine The Past
now i get it.

Pink - Greatest Hits... So Far!!!
She has a lot of hits

Sufjan Stevens - The Age of Adz

2010-09-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 10/12/10
Genre: Experimental electronica w/ orchestra

When I don't know what to listen to, I just cue up Illinois until I can find something else to explore, but a lot of times, I just let it play out because that album is so satisfying no matter what mood I'm in. When I describe his work between '03-'06 to be untouchable, I just meant how effortless his songs seem to come out. I've been wondering since how could he ever top himself. Even with subsequent releases, to a lot of fans, Illinois was his last proper full length album. Until now.

Review: If you heard his "Christmas Vol 8", "You Are The Blood," and/or "All Delighted People," then you probably fell like me in that Sufjan is really pushing his boundaries. There was nothing wrong with his style, maybe he could still pull it off and capture that folk sound, but after 5 years and numerous newcoming acts that sounded remotely "Sufjan," you start to wonder, what can the actual Sufjan do? There was a strong sign that he was headed towards a more electronic sound (i never listen to enjoy your rabbit), but The Age of Adz is drenched in it.

If I never heard of Sufjan, I probably would have went, "This is bullshit!" but because I am a fan, I was really determine to like it. My initial impressions were like many, "this is a lot to take in." The melodies aren't as sparklingly and the sound is noisy. Like there's more alterations with the vocals and sometimes it feels buried, but it's fine because the music is very interesting. I mean, this is seriously strange. There isn't a underlying melody, just more bleep-bloop. Maybe this is a sign that I have limited taste, but the only recording artist I can compare this album to is Sufjan himself.

The opening track is as close as what we can get to a pure old-Sufjan track, then "Too Much" just smashes everything apart. It feels like it'll have the verse/chorus exchange, then the second half of it just soars above it. Do other people zone out when they listen to music because I love it when I can do it. The music suddenly stops being about fitting in within my life and more on understanding why was this piece of music was created. Yikes, I sound like a snob.

Now if there's only one track you can listen to, make it the title track, "Age of Adz." I feel that it's the best summation of Sufjan's work. It has the best of both worlds. The vocals are heartbreaking mixed with the orchestral and heavenly choir. Then there's the futuristic/apocalypse sound, yet there's something so troublesome hearing him sing "When I die, I'll rot" like he's afraid of the unknown.

During my first listen, "Vesuvius" was my standout track that I couldn't wait to repeat. It begins gentle and builds with more layers. I love the bubbles and I love that flute! I understand that Vesuvius is a volcano, but just the way this song is put together, I can feel the sorrow or pain or the feeling that a past lover can't hear him call for help. Still, I feel good when I hear it like I want to take action.

The final two tracks are probably what most listeners will take away from. "I Want to be Well" marks the first time Sufjan uses profanity. Part of his charm was how excessive he got so it almost became silly. Hearing him sing "I'm not fucking around" caught me off guard, but I enjoy it. Consider how fast beat the music was, that moment where everyone is shouting "and i want to be well" just feels so rejuvenating.

On the last EP, "Djohariah" suffered with me because it felt like it was stalling. "Impossible Soul" manages to use all of its time to its fullest. I've read around and some people are really upset with the autotune, but it's just for effect, not for pitch correction. Then the second half is an all out sing-a-long. Really happy moment.

Tracklist/Scorecard:
1. Futile Devices 10/10
2. Too Much 9/10
3. Age of Adz 10/10
4. I Walked 8/10
5. Now That I'm Older 10/10
6. Get Real Get Right 8/10
7. Bad Communication 7/10
8. Vesuvius 10/10
9. All For Myself 9/10
10. I Want To Be Well 10/10
11. Impossible Soul 10/10

Summary: It's a challenging album which doesn't always add up to being good. At least he's doing what he wants to do. Unlike the EP which some felt like throwaways tracks, this album is well-crafted.

Key Tracks: Age of Adz, Vesuvius, Impossible Soul
Rating: 9.3/10

Sufjan Stevens - All Delighted People

2010-08-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 08/20/10
Genre: Indie Folk

So I woke Friday with a message from someone asking if I was one of the delighted people, after a minute of web surfing, I freaked out seeing NEW Sufjan Stevens music has been released. After downloading, I didn't start listening until that evening. Why the wait? Well, have you ever been nervous listening to a new album? It was one of those moments where I needed to be free from everything. Sufjan's discography from 2003 to 2006 was in my eyes, untouchable.

Review: Because of the suddenness of this ep, I had no real hype. After my first listen, I did feel unimpressed except for "Heirloom" because it's so familiar like a Sufjan Stevens' song should sound like. And I also liked "From the Mouth of Gabriel" because it feels like one of his Christmas songs. However, the thing that bugged me most was that missing theme as strong as Illinois. Even with repeated listens, I learn to be accustom to the songs, but I have a hard time figuring out, "what's the point?" Maybe if i wasn't so lazy, i could pick apart the lyrics, but for now, these are just good songs.

"The Owl And The Tanager" is the fifth track of the ep and when i pick and choose it, it's a great song, but when i'm listening to the album as a whole, i just hate it. It's a very isolated song that just stops the pace of the EP. The same can be said for "Enchanting Ghost." quiet melodies, but not something i must repeat.

"All Delighted People (Original Version)" is my favorite track. It has elements of the old with his love of electronic.

Tracklist/Scorecard:
1. All Delighted People (Original Version) 10/10
2. Enchanting Ghost 7/10
3. Heirloom 10/10
4. From the Mouth of Gabriel 9/10
5. The Owl and the Tanager 7/10
6. All Delighted People (Classic Rock Version) 7/10
7. Arnika 8/10
8. Djohariah 7/10

Summary: As a huge fan, this EP is enough to satisfy the hunger of more Sufjan. Comparatively. it's not Illinois.

Key Tracks: All Delighted People (Original Version), Heirloom, From the Mouth of Gabriel
Rating: 8.1/10

HALF YEAR MARK: 2010 Top Albums/Songs (so far)

2010-06-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

Albums:
1. The National - High Violet
2. Janelle Monáe - The ArchAndroid
3. Titus Andronicus - The Monitor
4. Owen Pallett - Heartland
5. Beach House - Teen Dream

Songs:
1. The National - Lemonworld

carrymind: so my grandpa passed

2010-05-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

ehhh. Lost was vague. pretty much killed the momentum.

2010 song of the week: Sage Francis - The Best of Times

carrymind: There is no carrymind!

2010-05-07T23:42:00.000-07:00

Holy. Lost was amazing!

Why did Miley do this?

2010 song of the week: Katy Perry - California Gurls ft. Snoop Dogg

Jason Derülo - Jason Derülo

2010-05-06T12:28:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 03/02/10
Genre: Dance-pop, R&B

9 hits, 1 album. I first heard of this guy while browsing the billboard charts late last year and "Whatcha Say" was number 1 so I just HAD to know what else could he do.

Review: A while back, Jason was on America Idol and when asked about the performance, Simon said, "well done." I don't know why, but I almost riot'd. There's way too much auto-tuned here to connect on a human level and I really can't tell if he can sing. Because it's only 9 tracks, I found myself able to swing through the entire album with ease. I can hear any of theses songs being played on the radio. So why the low score? Even thought I can sit through it, it's a very disposable pop album.

Tracklist/Scorecard:
1. Whatcha Say 8/10
2. Ridin' Solo 2/10
3. In My Head 8/10
4. The Sky's the Limit 6/10
5. What If 4/10
6. Love Hangover 7/10
7. Encore 5/10
8. Fallen 5/10
9. Blind 3/10

Summary: I'll be your teacher I'll show you the ropes.

Key Tracks: Whatcha Say, In My Head, Love Hangover
Rating: 5.3/10

Jónsi - Go

2010-05-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 04/05/10
Genre: Sigur Rós

Discovering Sigur Rós's music was a life changing, genre shifting moment for me. Yes, we get it. It's highly layered and dense with emotion. Who do they sound like? None of the comparisons comes close. Their 2008 album marked a change in their sound. It was more organic, which is where Jónsi's album seems to branch off from.

Review: So I miss the lenghty intro/outro that earlier SR music had and on this album, there is none. Nothing that transit between songs. So it does leave me with a loose "skip around' mode. The only songs I really come back to are "Boy Lilikoi" and is it just me or does "Around Us" sound very Mew-like. anyways, It's a decent album, but nothing to really amaze you. I didn't hear that much experimentation and I really don't like him singing in English.

Tracklist/Scorecard:
1. Go Do 8/10
2. Animal Arithmetic 9/10
3. Tornado 7/10
4. Boy Lilikoi 9/10
5. Sinking Friendships 8/10
6. Kolniður 6/10
7. Around Us 8/10
8. Grow till Tall 6/10
9. Hengilás 6/10

Summary: Joyful sounds.

Key Tracks: Animal Arithmetic, Boy Lilikoi, Around Us
Rating: 7.4/10

Vampire Weekend - Contra

2010-05-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 01/11/10
Genre: Indie Rock

I remembered! These guys were huge two years ago. Then they got hated upon. Where was I? Well I loved their first record for being so different from the current batch of 'it' bands. Every song was full of hooks.

Review: So what happens now. Looking at the reviews, I'm super soaking surprised at how well received this album has gotten. Yes their sound didn't disappoint, but as a person, my music taste has really changed in the past two years that hearing this now just doesn't feel fresh anymore. Even their super catchy singles 'Cousins' and 'Giving up the Gun' annoy me. However, it is a strong effort especially the beginning. Hearing them solidifying their sound is interesting. But when it's over, does it still linger with me? Nothing feels like an lasting impression so the replay value is low for me. It's still an easy listen to once it is on.

Tracklist/Scorecard:
1. Horchata 9/10
2. White Sky 9/10
3. Holiday 8/10
4. California English 7/10
5. Taxi Cab 9/10
6. Run 8/10
7. Cousins 7/10
8. Giving Up the Gun 6/10
9. Diplomat's Son 7/10
10. I Think Ur a Contra 5/10

Summary: It's what I expected, got bored towards the end.

Key Tracks: Horchata, Holiday, Taxi Cab
Rating: 7.4/10

Frightened Rabbit - The Winter of Mixed Drinks

2010-05-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 03/09/10
Genre: Indie Rock

"The Midnight Organ Fight" was my favorite album released in 2008 and if there's one thing I've learn from music blogging, it's very hard to trash a band you love.

Review: It's one of the reasons why I hate reading positive reviews from diehard fans. It's expected from. Now I'm not that big of a fan of FR, but this album does sound good to me and I'm not sure if it's because it's good music or because I'm frankly used to their sound. "Things" kicks off the album nicely, but the delivery for "Swim" feels forged. I was hoping it would grow on me, but some days I enjoy the song and others I don't. The repeated line of the song title makes me think they were aiming for it to be a commonly used line to quote for twitter/facebook status.

Track 3-5 gets back to their sound that I like, but it almost feels like autopilot for fans like I. So it's a pleasing sound. "Skip the Youth" gets into epic territory and at the end of the trio of songs, it really pulls me into thinking it's worthy, but I'm not sure. Same issues with "Foot Shooter." It has everything made to be a great song, but is it? This is where I become unreliable. Everything sounds the way it should sound, but I feel less 'blown away' from Midnight. After each song on Winter, I don't have that 'awe' feeling.

Tracklist/Scorecard:
1. Things 8/10
2. Swim Until You Can't See Land 6/10
3. The Loneliness and the Scream 8/10
4. The Wrestle 7/10
5. Skip the Youth 8/10
6. Nothing Like You 7/10
7. Man/Bag of Sand -/10
8. Foot Shooter 7/10
9. Not Miserable 7/10
10. Living In Colour 7/10
11. Yes, I Would 8/10

Summary: Without comparing, it's a fine album. Obviously, they couldn't repeat the pain from the last album so this is the best they could do to cleanse their pallet.

Key Tracks: Things, Skip the Youth, Yes, I Would
Rating: 7.3/10

E.S. Posthumus - Makara

2010-05-02T12:02:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 02/02/10
Genre: Orchestral

I didn't know this album was coming out. I love being surprised. If you never heard of this band, trust me, you have.

Review: The quickest review I can say is, if you are just a bit interested in movie soundtracks at all, give this a listen. Was it their intention to make music for movie trailers, I don't know. But it's almost inseparable at this point. The good news is, this album is very consistent and a lot more like their first album, epic choir music. It's easy to create your own story in your head. But is it revolutionary? Who needs it to be. This is the music I wanted to hear and they delivered. Very manly music. Great pacing as well. I suppose the dangers are, every song has so much texture and similar themes that aside from the gentler songs, I couldn't named the song by ear alone. So it does bleed together.

Tracklist/Scorecard:

1. Kalki 7/10
2. Varuna 7/10
3. Unstoppable 10/10
4. Durga 8/10
5. Manju 8/10
6. Kuvera 9/10
7. Ushas 8/10
8. Lavanya 8/10
9. Vishnu 10/10
10. Indra 8/10
11. Arise 10/10
12. Saint Matthew Passion 6/10
13. Krosah 9/10
14. Anumati 6/10
15. Moonlight Sonata 4/10

Summary: It's like Cartographer never happened and this album is the true successor to their mighty debut. This is your adrenalin junkie's album.

Key Tracks: Unstoppable, Vishnu, Arise
Rating: 8.0/10

Beach House - Teen Dream

2010-05-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

Release Date: 01/25/10
Genre: Dream Pop

I remembered! It was their album cover for Devotion that just made me skip them.

Review: So lucky for me, I didn't expect much going into this record, but it's one of the best albums I've heard so far. Great description on labeling it 'dream pop' because it really feels stretchy and pulled apart for it's length. Sorry if I made it sound boring, but in my head, i visualized this breezy mixture and this album just stirs it up. Victoria's vocals are amazing. Every time she holds on to the notes, it just makes me pay attention to see if she'll break and she doesn't. I love the fullness to it. I love the hissing sound. I love the lushness. My only slight complain is that some songs drift out instead of finishing with a bang.

Tracklist/Scorecard:
1. Zebra 10/10
2. Silver Soul 9/10
3. Norway 9/10
4. Walk in the Park 9/10
5. Used to Be 10/10
6. Lover of Mine 8/10
7. Better Times 9/10
8. 10 Mile Stereo 10/10
9. Real Love 8/10
10. Take Care 9/10

Summary: I know, this album is old news, but if you still haven't heard this album, do it. It's excellent from front to back.

Key Tracks: Zebra, Used to Be, 10 Mile Stereo
Rating: 9.4/10