Archive | December, 2010

The Best Songs of 2010: #10: “Excuses” by The Morning Benders

20 Dec

How can you not like number graphics?

And it officially begins. Today is December 20. By December 30 the mystery will be unraveled and the Music Court’s top 10 songs of the year will be revealed. People love lists. Seriously, if I devoted this entire blog to “Best-Of Lists” I would gain a tremendous amount of viewers. For the next 10 days (excluding Sunday the 26) I will list a song a day from today’s #10 to Dec. 30 #1. Let us begin with #10.

Song: “Excuses”

Artist: The Morning Benders

I have been trying to put my finger on what “Excuses” by The Morning Benders sounds like. Well, the #10 song on our list was released in March of 2010 and co-produced by Grizzly Bear bassist Chris Taylor. The Grizzly Bear influence is evident. The song is what happens when you put Spector’s “Wall of Sound” concept and late 60’s light, melodic, British psychedelia into a particle collider and let them hit each other at such a rapid speed that it bends time and travels 40 years and penetrates lead singer Chris Chu. The melodic hook in this song is beyond wonderful…it’s eery.

This is a 5-minute work of genius. Notice how we immediately are introduced to a wacky string section that already hits us with the Grizzly Bear sound. And when they erupt into the acoustic chords and normal string section it is as if we have been sent back in time. The string coordination is beautiful. Chris Chu’s voice appears in the first verse and, just like an ocean wave, douses listeners with water infused with vocal goodness. The harmony prior to the chorus is so British harmonizing it is absolutely scary. The lyric is not shabby either.

The breakdown extends the song’s infectiousness. We have another one that sticks. And, in typical “Wall of Sound” fashion, the breakdown slowly rises into this ultimate crescendo that leads into the powerful last verse where it seems like several voices are pounding into listeners. After listening to the song I felt drenched. This piece starts off our Top 10 well. And, as you can imagine, if this is #10 we have a solid list and 10 days ahead of us. See you all tomorrow.

Tags: , , , , ,

Jason Spooner’s 2010 Release a Monster One

17 Dec

Back in November I looked at the New England-based singer/songwriter Jason Spooner. Here is a brief caption from the post:

Spooner decided he was going to create it; a new beat that takes a taste of old and combines it with an emerging modern acoustic/blues trend. Music that never forgets about the important art of lyric. Spooner has grown up and come a long way. He has just released his third album, an absolute gem. As songwriter Christine Lavin wrote about Spooner, “This is someone important.”

Yes, I have sunk so low that I must sample myself. How dare I plagiarize myself. I have gotten my hands on Spooner’s new album (the third album mentioned above) and will review it here. It was released July of this year.

The first track of any album is obviously reflective of the rest of the pieces that follow it. It is my firm belief that if the first track does not succeed in capturing the listener than the rest of the album is a failure. Never underestimate the importance of #1. Trust the old adage; put your best foot forward. In this statement I do not mean that the first song has to be the best on the album. On the contrary, it should most certainly not be (you want to leave the listener with gems later in the album). The first song must only accomplish the task of capturing the listeners attention.

That is what “Crashing Down” does for Spooner. It introduces the listener to the album with a short repetitive riff and quick drum beat. The true hook is Spooner’s voice. It is smooth and inviting. The song moves into a quick pre-choral lyrical combination that tastes like The Script. And don’t think I missed bassist Adam Frederick’s funky bass line underneath Spooner’s voice and acoustic guitar. These are the small diamonds I like in Spooner’s music. Frederick and drummer Reed Chambers are wonderful musicians who influence Spooner’s music with creative gems like the small funky bass line.

The introductory track never comes crashing down. Even when the song fades away it maintains its tight vocal harmonies and great guitar. Though exciting, it is a slower piece and most definitely inviting. The track ends and the CD reads track two.

Boom. A great drum beat leads into a vibrating chord and all of a sudden the folk piece we just heard has been wiped away by the blues. And, in an effortless transition. It is great track selection from Spooner. We get a completely different element. Spooner’s harmonica and guitar evokes a twangy feeling that matches with his original voice. The chorus is powerful. It draws you further in. Take a listen below (Kudos to Chambers on the drum box)

Spooner’s album so far is shaping up like a musical goody-bag. Let’s see what we get next. The third track really does have a Script feel. This is not a bad thing, as the Script have gone on to be tremendously successful. I can see Spooner’s music gaining popularity as it gains some age and recognition. It is certainly widespread radio bound. This is what I hear on track three. The backing guitar whines while Spooner harmonizes with Frederick. It never gets out of hand. It is a sharp track. This is how it is throughout.

I would like to highlight one specific track that is my personal favorite from the album, “Seed In The Ground.” I believe this is a step above most of the other songs. It is an amalgamation of all things Spooner does right musically. It has a consistent drum beat, infectious rhythm guitar, faded harmonica and Spooner’s wonderful lead vocals and choral harmonies.

So, here comes the portion of the review where I sell you on the album. I give this the Music Court title of “get your hands on a copy and take a listen.” Spooner is a talented musician who understands the meaning of effective music. His songs are snug like a fitted suit. You just feel good when you are in it, swimming the melodic sea of his music.

Visit Spooner’s website for more information on his music and to buy the new album.

Link: http://www.jasonspooner.com/

Also, in the spirit of the Holidays, let the Music Court provide you with a Spooner cover. Here is Spooner and Dar Williams performing “Girl from the North Country,” available by way of free Mp3 download.

Link: http://www.jasonspooner.com/free/holiday/

Tags: ,

Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame Induction – John Lennon Tribute – John Lennon Tribute?

16 Dec

John Lennon Look-Alike

Yes, I know what you are probably thinking. He repeats himself in the title. Well, let me explain myself.

Meet Street Corner Symphony. If you have been watching the Sing Off on NBC, then you are well acquainted with this Nashville sextet that combine good ol’ fashioned southern charm with funk elements in their music. No instruments. The show is pure A cappella, a style vocal-only music that has become a popular part of our musical culture again. Back in the 50s and 60s, A cappella style was a nice sized part of the musical culture. Well, then again, what wasn’t available on the musical dinner plate.

The Sing Off is really the only show I watch and it definitely is the only reality show I find myself viewing. There are a few reasons for this. The talent is extraordinary for any music lover. Unlike American Idol or any other singing show, this pins intelligent musicians who have mastery over their voices and vocal choreography against each other in a short format. The show runs for only a couple of weeks in 2-hour episodes. Next Monday is the finale. Yeah, so instead of suffering through Months of American Idol, you receive quick results and don’t get sick of the judges. I also like the show because Ben Folds is a judge. ‘Nuff said.

Street Corner Symphony is one of the four bands that will be in attendance at the finale. America now votes on who wins. They are not my favorite, but they still are tremendously talented…and one of their members may be a reincarnated John Lennon.

If the picture is not enough. This was taken during their Beatles' medley!

Scary. Judge Shawn Stockman finally acknowledged the underlying thought in every viewers mind after this performance by saying that Richie Lister (playing the part of John Lennon above) really looks like Lennon and it was scaring the hell out of him. You are not alone Mr. Stockman.

Tweedy Lennon

In other John Lennon related news, Wilco lead singer, Jeff Tweedy, made a surprise appearance at an Autumn Defense show. Autumn Defense is the side-project of two Wilco multi-instrumentalists. Tweedy played Lennon’s “God” to honor Lennon on the anniversary of his death (Dec. 8).

Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame Inductees

School’s out for sweet Caroline. Alice Cooper and Neil Diamond are Cleveland-bound and ready to suit up for the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

Cooper and Diamond will be joined by Tom Waits, Darlene Love and Dr. John as they are all honored on March 14. Congrats to the inductees.

Tags: , , , , , ,

The Best Songs of 2010: Sneak Peak – Number 11: “Tighten Up” by The Black Keys

14 Dec

Last year at around this time in December I was summing up a decade of music. Today premieres a preview of the top songs of 2010, a post category that will run from December 20 – December 30 (Skipping the Sunday in between). Each day will feature a different song in a running countdown to the best song of 2010. Please understand this disclaimer. All opinions expressed in this list (especially order of songs) are opinions. That’s right. So, if you have another song that you believe deserved a spot, post it in a comment and let’s talk. Also, be nice. It’s New Years and Christmas and overall merriment should be the pervasive thought during this season.

Anyway, before I travel home tomorrow (today marked the official end of Fall semester of my senior year at Binghamton University), I wanted to leave you with the #11 song on my 2010 countdown. The list is made up of 11 songs to mark our transition into 2011 and to hold true to the “one for good luck” axiom. I know. Aren’t I witty? Okay, not really. Let’s get to some music.

#11.) “Tighten Up” by The Black Keys

We kick off our list with a song about a dinosaur. Well, no, it’s not about a dinosaur, but Frank, the Black Keys’ puppet dinosaur, does star in the video for this catchy rock tune. Take a listen:

Yes, Frank is infectious, but so is the opening whistle, catchy riff, excellent bass and drum portion (Pat Carney at his best). The song is excellently put together, clean, but rugged. The mini-solo that repeats throughout the song serves as a shaking breakdown (or Frank dance portion). Because, as we all know, Frank is a Funkasaurus Rex.

The song, not to be confused with Archie Bell and The Drell’s “Tighten Up” from 1968 – because who in the world would confuse a Black Keys song with Archie Bell’s awesome hit – appeared on The Black Keys’ release Brothers (May 18, 2010). The song was created by The Black Keys and Brian Burton, a.k.a Danger Mouse (who actually makes several appearances on our list through numerous different projects).

As guitarist/vocalist Dan Auerbach told The Sun, “That was the last song we did for the record. We had a couple of days off and so did Brian (Danger Mouse) and since we are friends and like hanging out with each other we thought it would be fun to go into the studio and see if we could come up with a tune. We always have a blast when the three of us get together.”

The result was a rock hit that fuses pop and the Keys’ trademark gritty style. Also, let us not forget Auerbach’s vocal which is trademark Keys, bluesy and upbeat. The end of the song definitely shows some Danger Mouse influence, as the song slowly moves into an odd techno, robotic beat and cuts out.

I think the songs greatest strength is in its simplicity. That, and Frank, mark it as #11 on our countdown. Tune your dials to The Music Court on December 20 where we will pick up with #10. I will be back posting on Thursday. Wish me happy traveling tomorrow (and hopefully none of that white stuff)

Tags: , , , , , , ,

The Recession-Proof Industry and Zombies, Lovin’ Spoonful Anniversaries

13 Dec

Zombie Reunion

Back on July 6, 2010, I wrote a post celebrating Odessey and Oracle, the 1968 masterpiece by The Zombies. I started out the article by saying that it was a broiler that day. 103 degree heat. Well, like I said then, at least it’s summer. It can be read here:

https://musiccourt.wordpress.com/2010/07/06/the-underrated-album-odessey-and-oracle/

We flash back to reality and I concur with my past thoughts. Currently it’s 28 degrees out and tomorrow will probably touch single digits. Well, hey, at least it’s winter. That does not work as effectively. The Zombies know it’s all about the “Time of the Season”

In a few months, the Zombies will be celebrating their 50th band anniversary and they have come a long way since being formed while members attended Grammar School in St. Albans, England. The Zombies will celebrate their anniversary with a new album and a London concert in May. Come to America and play in the New York area. I saw members of the Zombies play at Hippiefest, but would love to see Rod Argent and Colin Blunstone together again.

Link: http://www.spinner.com/2010/12/10/the-zombies-50th-anniversary

An Unfortunate Anniversary

We move on. Let’s remember original lead guitarist for the Lovin’ Spoonful, Zal Yanovsky, who died eight years ago today. It may be the polar opposite from the weather…and season…today, but, here is the Lovin’ Spoonful’s biggest hit, “Summer in the City”

The Recession-Proof Industry

Music artifacts. It seems that everyday I get up in the morning and glance over music news to find another music artifact being sold for somewhere in between $100,000-millions. While the majority of the United States and Europe may be suffering, the super rich are buying music artifacts at a high rate daily.

Just this weekend it was reported that the original handwritten lyrics of “The Times They Are a-Changin‘” by Bob Dylan was sold to American Art Collector Adam Sender for $422,500. Holy God! I mean the lyric is a pretty awesome find, but still that is a lot of money. Well, Sender is a hedge fund manager with an extensive art collection and he is absolutely, 100 percent, recession-proof rich. The guy has a lot of money. So, I guess power to him. Someone needs to keep this music artifact business going.

But, just some food for thought. I’m not advocating shared wealth or any unrealistic communist ideals, but, it does seem rather odd that one can purchase an artifact – which is probably only a small purchase – for the money that most American’s will never make in a lifetime. And, yes, is this a joy of capitalism and the fruits of hard work and intelligence? Of course. But, while my statement does come off with harsh direction towards the super rich, in times of economic deficit maybe even the super rich should show some frugality instead of shoving it in the faces of those who are not close to that wealthy and are struggling to keep their family afloat. Because, Republicans, trickle-down does not work. It will never work.

Well, that’s about the most political I will get on this music blog. The sale of this artifact is still note-worthy and I think it was a good purchase by Sender. As a hedge fund manager he would know that this piece’s monetary value will only increase.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

← Older Entries
Newer Entries →