Musical Arcania Is Back!

Ok, last year was tough. Lost two musical inspirations, health problems, life crap. You know, the same stuff we all experience. I just stopped writing about music and immersed myself in my tunes and in politics. One was a joy and brought me peace; the other turned into a can of rusty, stale sardines. You guess which was which. Anyway, I'm getting back to my blog with a little political commentary that I will start with a little ditty from Ani DiFranco that sums up, well you can fill in the names -- https://youtu.be/rqGnIBlbkUY - Napoleon -- Ani has brought me much laughter and joy over the last 25 years, and this song is both timelY and still amusing to me. Next is an old Eagles tune about global and environmental issues that I am proud to say CA has never shied away from and at this very moment is showing real courage and world leadership. Last Resort by The Eagles --    https://youtu.be/-8sgV7a1G8g.  Another oldie that is more relevant now than when first written 45 years ago -- https://youtu.be/EbZYRZpNc64 -- What's Going On by the inimitable Marvin Gaye. Finally, Roger Waters says it best (at least for me) in Pigs (Three Different Ones) -- https://youtu.be/QWLBtMz5OuY.

Now to end on a cheery note, two of my fave clips of two musical giants. First is Prince at a sound check playing Gershwin. -- https://youtu.be/Zy444L6PJjw -- and the second is Bowie at his most relaxed and happy while signing a truly uplifting song, Heroes -- https://youtu.be/bsYp9q3QNaQ.

Enjoy!!

A Little Taste of The Raspberries - Sweet Tunes

I started writing this blog after a few years of sending Wednesday text messages to my daughters in my vain effort to "expand" their musical appreciation. Who knows if I did anything, but we had fun with it, and they encouraged me to write this blog. So going back to the roots of this whole thing, I want to turn my kids on to an early '70s band that mixed a little rock, a lot of pop, and just a smidge of grit - The Raspberries led by Eric Carmen.  I heard The Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack and was reminded of my first time hearing this band and how fun and infectious their sound was "Go All The Way" - http://youtu.be/7wT_NpsYdes (live version) or http://youtu.be/jfgnc6Ey0q0 (live over tape so you hear those sweet backing vocals). The Rasberries were not a one hit wonder - they had three strong years, two really good albums, and more hits, like "I Wanna Be With You" - http://youtu.be/5mFUYm5QFUE - and "Let's Pretend" - http://youtu.be/tjzwcx3ie24. They had three strong elements: good musicians, a great frontman, and songs focused on getting chicks to stay the night with them. Pure Gold in the early '70s for aspiring pop rockers. Let me wrap up with the craziest, self-indulgent version I could find of Eric Carmen's first solo hit, which I have always loved, but this live version from the Midnight Special (best rock show on TV ever!) takes it "to 11" without a doubt - http://youtu.be/EzoazPPC7b8. Love that over-the-top piano piece he crammed in just to let you know he was more than a Teen Beat pin-up artist. Love it! Finally, let me end with a little nugget from John Lennon's favorite artist and his best drinking pal, Harry Nillson and "Without You" - http://youtu.be/_bQGRRolrg0. Harry was a super talent who first ruined his voice, then lost his life to a decades long battle with alcoholism. A sad genius. Enjoy!

Rocking the Bass - The Heart of All Great Music

I love the bass guitar -- I mean stop what I'm doing or saying to enjoy and call out a great riff or line -- and I have desperately tried to impart, if not my love then at least an appreciation, to my daughters how trascendant a great bass line can be and how transformative to a song a solid, unique bass line can be. Wow, I love the bass. And my children know it, and they are largely tolerant of my obsession. So, who are great bassists? I know whatever I say will be controversial, but here goes. First I must give a nod to John Entwhistle of The Who. He did not play rhythm bass; he played lead bass. He was playing lines, solos and riffs that played off Townsend's guitars and Moon's drums, but he never sat back and just played a backbeat. Check this out - http://youtu.be/g_SWP3qI7Rg - Pete's histrionics, Roger's machismo, Keith's madness -- nothing can keep The Ox from taking over this iconic song. Next, I have to defend a great bassist who is oft maligned or simply neglected in this conversation. Sir Paul McCartney. Ever want to learn how complex his bass lines are? Just play Rock Band on your gaming device and try, just try, to keep up with Paul on even the medium setting; forget about expert because he just blows you away. Proof? Come Together is a nice song, but all its grit and edge come not from John's sarcasm and anger in his vocals - no, no, no, it is Paul's sinister bass line -- http://youtu.be/DEZ4TChR7JI.  I will acknowledge the massive talents of Chris Squire of Yes, and the legendary Jack Bruce of Cream. But someone who transcended time and genres is Bootsy Collins. He started with the highly regimented sound of the James Brown Band; then he went Afro-psychedelic with Parliament Funkadelic; and he created his own sound as a solo artist and much in demand session player. Check this gem - http://youtu.be/m_84x4wFaoE - Bootsy laying it down with Snoop in an homage to a family favorite film, Undercover Brother. Listen to Bootsy killing it behind Snoop's buttery smooth rap. Bliss. Finally, let's end by going back 50 years to a bassist who played on over 50% of ALL the top 10 hits in the '60s, including all Beach Boys, Byrds, and Mamas and Papas hit songs, and that is the inimitable Carol Kaye of The Wrecking Crew - the baddest mother of all session musicians. Dig this - http://youtu.be/BI09eh020hE. Yep, she created so much of the music that so many others took credit for during that seminal time for rock music. Finally, let's groove to a personal fave, John McVie. Yeah, I know this will bug some folks, but he rocks! http://youtu.be/lpVCL00fPAc. John and Mick are seamless and timeless. So, next time you put on a favorite song, do me a favor and check out the bass in the background and Enjoy!

Lindsay Buckingham and His Guitar - 'Nuff Said

My daughters have had to endure my love of Fleetwood Mac all their lives, but they really start to get antsy (and, at times, hostile) when I dig into Lindsay Buckingham's catalogue. They don't get his songs; they writhe at his indulgent, endless guitar solos; and they join my wife in reaching their limit when he breaks into a screaming, repetitious, and seemingly-endless conclusion to a song. Granted, that is all true. But, dang it, his guitar skills are so masterful; his songwriting so poignant and perceptive; and his passion for music so enthralling, that I forgive him his relatively minor "sins" in favor of his transcending musical gifts. I have to start with a song that I played for Cerissa as we went to our Ripped classes on Saturday mornings - a song I feel an identity with, once it was stripped of its silly electronic fluff from the album version and reduced to a brilliant acoustic guitar masterpiece - "Go Insane" (http://youtu.be/cHqtUKEC1O8). Continuing with this acoustic vibe, I want to share a little known song that has deep meaning for Mac fans because of the sweetness and tenderness of the lyrics by Lindsay, the performance he shares with Stevie Nicks and, of course, his virtuoso guitar playing - "Say Goodbye" (http://youtu.be/CwKGE5fPe5M). Finally, let's just enjoy Lindsay doing everything I noted above as his so-called failings, but which work to perfection in "I'm So Afraid" (http://youtu.be/TDwg28bSjoI). As I like to do, let me sign off with a little nugget, which this time is another of those super-creepy songs that I heard recently and, when I really digested the lyrics, it seems that the singer is preparing to abduct a young girl and engage in statutory rape, all in the name of love? Yuck - as a father of daughters, this song sent a chill down my spine, so I shall share it with you, my friends - "Into the Night" by Benny Mardones (http://youtu.be/wyUUIUjdDRE). Enjoy, once you shower off Benny's creepiness.

Katy Perry + Super Bowl = Pure Fun, Tribute to Missy Elliott and Shout Out to Jessie J

Music Wed - Now that the Super Bowl hype and extravaganza have finished, I have two music related thoughts. First, Katy Perry's show was GREAT! The Super Bowl is no longer a game, but a highly staged, intricately choreographed, entertainment spectacle, and Katy Perry's show dialed it up to 11. I loved every weird, over-the-top, disjointed moment. Second was my surprise and total love of seeing my self-declared Queen of Hip Hop, Missy Elliott. Jenelle had the best reaction - for years she has wondered why I have nearly 100 songs on my iTunes library featuring Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliott, but she has never really listened to her, and certainly has never seen her. When I told her that Missy was performing, her jaw dropped (hopefully because she was loving the music!). I understand that Twitter blew up with people loving the "new" performer featured in Ms. Perry's show - I understand Missy E loved that. She was an innovator whose music still sounds fresher than almost anything else coming out of hip hop right now, including Nicky Minaj and many other pretenders to Missy's throne. Here are a few examples of both her visual and musical styles, both of which were heavily influenced by Timbaland who was just making a name for himself before he hooked up with JT and became a household name. Her videos are trippy, weird spectacles that captured the dark and dense songs she and Timbaland were creating in their Hip Hop Frankenstein Lab. To prove the point, check out "Get Ur Freak On" (http://youtu.be/Ow3O2vIpeGU), "Work Out" (http://youtu.be/zm28EEeyLek), and "Lose Control" (http://youtu.be/jD_k7Ni1btU). She still is the best. As a parting shot, I do want to concede my guilty pleasure - I love Jessie J's collaboration with Ariana Grande and the undeniable, irrepressible Nicky Minaj (while she is not up to Missy's level, she is an amazing performer), "Bang Bang" (http://youtu.be/0HDdjwpPM3Y). Cotton candy? Sure, but it still is fun and tastes oh, so, good. Enjoy!

What If We Lived In An Alternative Universe Where Everyone Admitted That The Eagles Are A Great Band?

Music Wed - I has become accepted to say the Eagles suck; or that the Eagle are corporate sell-outs; or that the Eagles were homogenized, pasteurized, everything-that-is-not-wild-free-and-original-about-rock-and-roll hacks.  In my view, this is not only unfair, but it is simply untrue. The Eagles are great - skilled musicians with angelic voices that can harmonize in a way only the Beach Boys can perhaps (and I stress the "perhaps") approach.  Let me present a number of choice cuts which show the range and dynamics of this band. I am focusing on live cuts to show that they are genuine artists, not studio creations. These guys were and are the real deal. And each time they made a personnel change, they seemed to trade up, such as replacing Randy Meisner with Timothy B. Schmitt, or replacing Bernie Leadon with Joe Walsh. The only sin I can't forgive them for is booting Don Felder from the band. Yes, Don was a pain in the butt, but life with Don Henley and Glenn Frey for 25+ years might make anyone a little testy. The Eagles are, in my view, incomplete without Don Felder. That grievance aside, here are my picks for the best Eagles songs (in no particular order). I have to start with a sentimental favorite, "Lyin' Eyes", which is probably the song that really made me sit up and start to dig into this band, way back in the early '70s as a young music lover sitting in my room reading liner notes (http://youtu.be/WeNBspJGVko). As you will see, their music can be sweet and easy, but their lyrics can bite. Here is an oldies double shot, "Already Gone" (http://youtu.be/MONuZiC6yPI), and "Peaceful Easy Feelin'" (http://youtu.be/pl5nUDIFSS8). Their first Top 10 hit was "Take It Easy" which was a Jackson Browne song that Jackson admittedly states was finished and made better once Glenn Frey added a verse and about girls checking him out in Winslow, AZ (http://youtu.be/eFYXfeoTOLU). I also love their later works, like "Last Resort" (http://youtu.be/LxhngMm4hqs), "Wasted Time" (http://youtu.be/3KrsASHrcgI), and one of my favorite Joe Walsh songs for the band, "Pretty Maids All In A Row" (http://youtu.be/pRSUBH5JFf4). This post has been pretty music heavy, but I feel I need to defend these guys from years of abuse, so I will end with one old song ("Best Of My Love - http://youtu.be/vAoNKK32FiU), one iconic and unforgettable song ("Hotel California - http://youtu.be/_p4JbbcfmX8 - the original version, although I love their acoustic take on this mega-hit), and one tribute song (http://youtu.be/EJfje5A3PUU - as performed by the long-time Eagles collaborator and friend, J.D. Souther, who sounds and plays like "the missing Eagle"). Enjoy!

Lovin' the Brothers Gibb Before There Are None Left To Thank For All The Great Songs!

Music Wed - I love the Bee Gees - ok, I came out and said it. I love their early, melancholy songs; I love their 70's era disco masterpieces; and, yes, I love the schmaltzy '80s songs they wrote for others when no one was buying their music (but secretly were when they bought Barbra Streisand, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton and other '80s era hit makers who took Bee Gee penned gems and made people love this band a third go-round). Here are some of my highlights. First, I dig the old stuff which often featured Robin's warbly tenor voice which I find so expressive. First, a pairing of "I Started a Joke" (http://youtu.be/0QTQdAKUZmA), followed by "Lonely Days" (http://youtu.be/7Nr9lTS61O0) - wow, still dig these songs. Next, let's not just dip a toe, but take a full plunge into Disco with these tasty morsels: "You Should Be Dancin'" (http://youtu.be/_JoZS6LgqYI) - you will notice Andy joins the brothers for this video! - followed by "Night Fever" (http://youtu.be/-ihs-vT9T3Q) - I picked a version with the lyrics, which are so silly and fun - and ending with their disco ballad, "How Deep Is Your Love" (http://youtu.be/XpqqjU7u5Yc - also with lyrics as a bonus). Let's end with an example of one of the Bee Gees hidden hits from the '80s, as sung by the masters themselves - "Islands in the Stream" made famous by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, but never sung better than by the Brothers Gibb (http://youtu.be/OcsW9pdSKMs), and "Guilty" as performed by Barry and Olivia Newton John, both sounding pretty good in their 60s (http://youtu.be/oT0G5aFR7pE).  Quick bonus cut - "Too Much Heaven" - just too much goodness to leave off this list (http://youtu.be/nREV8bQJ1MA). Enjoy!

Southern Rock vs. Texas Blues -- Both Are Winners in My Book

Music Wed - Two genres which arose around the same time, the late 60's and early 70's, continue to bring me joy and open little surprises with the discovery of deep cuts from the competing genres' various masters. I am talking about Southern Blues Rock and Texas Blues Rock.  Let me highlight the masters of each style and see if you can recognize and appreciate the differences - and just for kicks and giggles, I will pontificate a bit on these differences. On the Southern Blues side you have the three pillars of this style - Allman Brothers Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Molly Hatchet, while the Kings of Texas Blues are best showcased in the music of ZZ Top, Stevie Ray Vaughn and currently Gary Clark, Jr. It is interesting to me how each of these styles adopted, somewhat serendipitously and I'm sure somewhat consciously by way of musical competition, and each style follows very predictable format, approach and even band composition. Southern Rock bands are large - a rhythm guitar (or two), at least two dueling lead guitarists, two full drummers with usually an additional percussionist, and, of course, a master keyboard player who is at home on a honky tonk piano as well as a Hammond B3 organ and who can challenge the guitarists for the lead solos. The vocalists are weary, hard living men with gravely voices. In contrast, Texas Blues bands are stripped down trios or, at most, a four piece band which features a stunning lead guitarist, and then the combo of a  bass player with drummer who possess separate bodies and instruments, but share one musical groove, and occasionally an organ, but only for support and atmosphere. For the Texas bands, the vocalists are minimalists - they growl out just enough lyrics to get you to the guitar jams. Let me exemplify - on the Southern Rock side, let's pick the Allman Bros.' "Done Somebody Wrong" (http://youtu.be/Pe_f46DBYU0), and "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed (http://youtu.be/abwC5mwlg94 -- this is a great original cut showing the gone-too-soon Duane Allman on slide guitar); for Skynyrd, I will pick "They Call Me The Breeze" (http://youtu.be/EsIqEq9OFxE) and "Gimmee Back My Bullets/Simple Man" (http://youtu.be/1lbrWxAOWAQ), and finally from the much less known, but in my opinion equally enjoyable, Molly Hatchett, we'll take on "Whiskey Man" (http://youtu.be/kKxnI2JNyVM).  I will give out a shout to the Marshall Tucker Band - do some snooping and you will find some gems to kick back and enjoy like "Heard It In A Love Song" (http://youtu.be/pNSzKPa96vQt -- got to love the swap of the rock flute for the usual southern-staple, the harmonica). For the Texas Blues bands, ZZ Top deep cuts include "Just Got Back From Baby's" (http://youtu.be/hxQOO63RnRQ) and "I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide" (http://youtu.be/gWttL4gs078). Stevie Ray is, to me, on a par approaching Jimi Hendrix for his skill and originality, and nothing shows those skills better than his classic take on "Little Wing" (http://youtu.be/NNgcKoJAYgs) and "Chitlins Con Carne" (http://youtu.be/Um1lA9m4wL0). Gary Clark, Jr. has been heralded as the the new blues guitar hero, and he showcases his vast talent on his new live album, which I highly recommend. To get you started, take a nibble on these tasty treats -- "When My Train Comes In" (http://youtu.be/tOeFJF3tTSU), and tradin' licks with John Mayer on "Born Under A Bad Sign" (http://youtu.be/RyFs13mMtPo).  Enjoy!

Music Wed - Some More Tool Tunes with Player, Wings, FGTH And Van Halen

Music Wed - I was all set to do something else this week when I heard an old fave "tool tune" which made me go down a totally different path. So, covering multiple decades and genres, and with no common theme, here are some more of my tool tunes which I love even though I may not always want to admit to others that I always sing along with these when I hear them. First is Player, with "Baby Come Back" (http://youtu.be/DDYBin9QZJc) - super cheesy? Sure. But that is part of its late '70s charm.  Next is Wings and one of Paul's many "silly love songs" (another tool tune!) for Linda - "My Love."  I crank it every time I hear it, and here is a great live version (http://youtu.be/qGStwcniqyI). Wings is way overlooked for memorable '70s bands. Denny Laine was a perfect partner for Paul and helped fill the void of no Beatles. I want to jump forward to the '80s with two songs I love to catch on Pandora or any other streaming service because I never get tired of them - Van Halen's "Hot For Teacher" (http://youtu.be/UXQYcNSNIb8) - gotta love a song that features great opportunities for both an air drum solo AND an air guitar solo! - and Frankie Goes To Hollywood and "Relax" (http://youtu.be/y64T-kYQ2B8). "Frankie Says" this song is irrestible. Good stuff when you are riding around and catch one of these oldies, but goodies. Enjoy!

Japanese Mechanical Dance Music and J-Pop Metal Thrashers - wild stuff that you won't want to miss!

Music Wed - I have been in weird moods lately as I have composed these posts, and today will be on exception. But, I say this - if you have skipped checking the songs from my last couple of posts because they just don't fit your preferences, please check out what I have here because I am sure you have NEVER seen anything like this.  I find Japanese culture very strange and fascinating, and the Japanese people are absolutely unique in their societal bonds and the lengths they go to protect, strengthen and preserve their communal society. But, with all the conformity, Japanese artists are wildly individualistic, and I have two shining examples which show their unique creative and ground breaking/genre changing artistry. First is from the group World Order who mock and comment on the highly organized, mechanized and ritualized aspects of Japanese society by playing the roles of the ultimate conforming businessmen - long a mainstay of the Japanese economy and an expression of the Japanese approach to business and societal norms.  I absolutely love these guys and their cool mechanical songs expressed with their mind blowing choreography, and "Welcome to Tokyo" is a great example of the beauty and somewhat subversive commentary on Japanese society (http://youtu.be/IDAlZ7PDMDU) - I can assure you that watching them will be enjoyable, but their song also will worm its way into your mind and you will be thinking about it the rest of the day. Next is a recent phenomenon which defies any conventional description. What would happen if you mixed preteen J-Pop with hard core metal music? The answer is the hottest band in Japan right now, Babymetal.  I defy you to say you have seen anything like this group of hard core shredders for musicians combined with the perfectly cutely adorable J-Pop princesses who dance and sing in front of their ghoulish band. Too wild to really describe in words, so please watch "Gimme Chocolate" (http://youtu.be/WIKqgE4BwAY) and "Catch Me If You Can" (http://youtu.be/g2c3MM3zf0Y). Too wild; so fun; and, to me, irresistible. Check this out - you will not be sorry, and you might even become a fan of one or both. I love them for their differences and similarities in terms of what they're trying to express, so Enjoy!

Bring Back the Talk-Box - Rock's Forgotten Guitar Hero's Friend

Music Wed - Among the weird things I love is the use of the "talk-box" in classic rock songs. Now, if you are under 40 years of age, this posting will be like a musical archaeological dig because, with a few notable exceptions like Slash, Dave Grohl and Jerry Cantrell, virtually one has really used the talk-box in a popular song since the mid '80s. If you are over 40, then don't pretend you have never heard of this oddball, cool device which allows a singer to sing his lyrics through the notes he is playing on a guitar. You can legitimately debate the merits of this early attempt at synthesized musical combinations, but you can't deny you know (and probably secretly dig!) at least one talk-box song.  For the younger readers, this device works as follows - the singer/guitarist routes his voice through a clear rubber tube next to the microphone through the guitar and then plays the guitar for a voice-merged-with-guitar sounds emerging as the final result. To pull this off, you need to be both a decent singer, as well as a skilled musician who can jam sufficiently well to make a synthesized voice sound cool coming out of a guitar. I rue the day musicians stopped playing with this device because it adds such a fun and unique combination of skills to any song that makes the song unforgettable.  Here are my favorite talk-box songs (all of which should be no surprise to you over 40 readers). First is the great Joe Walsh's classic jam on "Rocky Mountain Way", which is a song that not only has a lengthy talk-box solo, but also includes comical lyrics and just good old fashioned axe work on the Gibson guitar that Joe has always favored (http://youtu.be/F1uWA7VPGiE). Obvious choice, but Joe is an endearing figure among rock guitarists and he does make the best Rock-Guitar-Faces when he plays. Next on any list like this has to be Peter Frampton's epic live version of "Do You Feel Like We Do" (http://youtu.be/y7rFYbMhcG8) - no one did more for the talk-box than Mr. Frampton because of the 20+ million copies of Frampton Comes Alive which have been purchased, not to mention the constant plays on 70's FM radio of the full jam version of this song - as an aside, I will never forgive AM radio for its insistence during the 70's on the three and one-half minute song limitation which resulted in lame, chopped-up versions of so many great songs, this one included. No RIP to AM radio - your passing is not missed.  Since most talk-box songs last at least 8-9 minutes in length, I will end with only one more classic - Motley Crüe's "Kickstart My Heart" (http://youtu.be/1PJOHbzQwGw).  This is the Crüe live in all their bombastic glory, and Mick Mars gives a very strong showing on his guitar work, including his use of the talk box. Enjoy!

The Joys of Jazz and Instrumental Music

Music Wed. In honor of the holiday, I am going to indulge in a second posting this week. Back in the 60s and 70s, every band featured one or two instrumental numbers on their albums to share (and oft times show off) their musical chops. Since modern pop artists have no such chops, the instrumental songs on albums died about 30 years ago. But I am here to declare that instrumental music is awesome, and I have three cuts to prove my case. First, is the great Jeff Beck, featuring my current favorite bassist Tal Wilkenfeld, on the indescribably eery and ethereal "Cause We've Ended As Lovers" (http://youtu.be/qMryWoRRqUc) and (http://youtu.be/VC02wGj5gPw) - yes, I gave you two versions because one is a wild jam at Crossroads 2007 where Tal goes nuts when Jeff turns her loose, and the second is a more refined version showcasing Jeff's mystical way of pulling notes from a guitar. Next, we will shift to a cover of one of my Top 5 Stevie Wonder songs, "Moon Blue", as covered by the David Reinhardt Trio and featuring Cyrille Aimee on vocals (http://youtu.be/1KAr3K3NtT0) - Ms. Aimee's vocals are passable, but wait until the end when she scats. Then she shows her artistry - all I can say is wow! Finally, we end with a version of a 60s sugary pop classic, "Sunny", that is given a lift by the Rosenberg Trio featuring David Reinhardt (http://youtu.be/iK4GF2GD1XI) - Messrs. Rosenberg and Reinhardt trade solos, never losing the song or each other. Sheer Brilliance. I always like to leave you with a little unexpected treat, so I want to share a recent discovery of Sting's haunting song "Fragile" featuring Sting and Stevie Wonder (http://youtu.be/Oi5FC2Mf-Bo) - keeping with our theme, this song features a virtuoso harmonica solo by Stevie that reminds us that John Popper is not the only one who can make this odd little instrument meaningful and beautiful. Enjoy! One last tip - if you love funky female bassists, check out rising star Alissia Benveniste on her composition "Let it Out" (http://youtu.be/ggPooXtzUD0) - pretty funky stuff for a music student!

Elton John and Howard Jones - Great Musicians With Some "Lost" Gems Which Should Be Lost "Classics"

Music Wed - I love singer-songwriters, that is well-known for readers of this blog; but I particularly have a special place in my heart for those who also are virtuoso musicians. I am going to toggle between the 70s and 80s with some deep cuts from two of my all time faves - Elton John (of course) and Howard Jones (a tip of the bandana to my 80s-loving chums). First is a song showing Elton and Bernie Taupin at their moody, lyrically obscure, Gus Dudgeon hauntingly produced best on "I've Seen That Movie, Too" (http://youtu.be/eptRpgMyyNE). No video here, just pristine audio of Elton and his original band playing live at the peak of their powers - Elton on piano, Ray Cooper on percussion and Davey Johnstone on guitar fill the hall like the full orchestra used in the original recording on Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (which is an absolute MUST HAVE for every music collection, it is so beautiful, weird and wonderful). Shifting gears, let's enjoy the piano master of 80s New Wave, Howard Jones, with "No One Is To Blame" (http://youtu.be/ENB2eX-U3a8). Cut him some slack on the hairdo and just enjoy his playing, his voice and a really sweet song that seemed to mean a lot to me when Rena and I stopped dating and the reasons weren't exactly clear or easy to articulate. Back to Elton, and let's waste no time with a two-fer of Elton's long forgotten beauties "All The Young Girls Love Alice" (http://youtu.be/C44qzpUD1kY) and "Have Mercy On A Criminal" (http://youtu.be/ZsGz1HL4BGY). Again no video, but pristine recordings of Elton just blowing the doors down with unforgettable songs about social ills and troubled souls. Who's writing songs like this today?  Oh yeah, I know - NOBODY! Let's wrap up with a two-fer from HoJo with "Like To Get To Know You Well" (http://youtu.be/DiZ-rLXCbLY) - a loose, live cut from recent times showing Howard still can sing and play like he did 30 years ago, and "Pearl In The Shell" (http://youtu.be/7KR-dRcEn6U) - this rollicking version brings to mind the spirit and energy of early Elton. Kick back, listen to these timeless gems and, of course, Enjoy!

It's Back - Music Wed Celebrates Embarrassing, But Fun, "Tool Tunes" - listen, cringe and enjoy!

Music Wed - To reintroduce Music Wed, I thought I would start with a fun idea I heard on a podcast, which is to list off a few of my favorite "Tool Tunes". We all have them - songs we take secret pleasure in singing along with, but are reluctant to admit we actually like them. These songs can be favorites for all types of weird reasons, but to be a true Tool Tune, a song must be a bit embarrassing, a bit cheesy or goofy, and always something nostalgic (at least for the person picking the tune). Here are a few of mine for some laughs. First one requires a trip in the wayback machine to the early 70's and the beginning of the Equal Rights movement and the anthem of that movement, "I Am Woman" by Helen Reddy (http://youtu.be/Gpu_PV3BTfI). Soak in every lyric because each cliche of empowerment is precious. Next is one of the weirdest songs ever, namely "Escape (Piña Colada Song)" (http://youtu.be/_WkR2Tv4dq4). Tired of his "lady", so he seeks out a hookup and happily ends up back with his "lovely lady"? Huh? Let's wrap up this episode with an old Police tune, "De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da" (http://youtu.be/xFHm3HCN9_k). I can assure you that if "all I wanted to say" to Rena was that drivel, I would still be single! Let's finish with a bonus tune, the brainless, but slightly naughty, ditty from the early crest of New Wave music, The Knack and "My Sharona" (http://youtu.be/g1T71PGd-J0). Love 'em all! Enjoy!

Great "Creepy" Hits From Times Gone By.

Music Wed - Keeping it light, and still keeping it out of the 80s (just for one more week). I was reflecting with a friend how many old songs have really creepy lyrics. Try the Eagles classic "Take It Easy", which starts with the famous lines "I'm just running down the road trying to loosen my load, got 7 women on my mind - 4 the ones I owe me; 2 the one I stole me; 1 says she's a friend of mine". Huh? Loosen his load? and he starts with 4 women he bargained or paid for and two he outright kidnapped? Are you kidding me? Well, this is a tribute to these kind of songs which ping the old creepo-meter pretty high. Let's start with two companion songs that are so overboard that I am surprised the singers did not get arrested in the studios. We will call these the "Roman Polanski tribute songs" - "Young Girl" and "Chevy Van". "Young Girl" by Gary Puckett is just a pure confessional where at least he warns the soon-to-be-statutory-rape-victim to at least run from him because he is so out of control. Trust me, though, the rest of the lyrics, where he goes into detail about his illicit feelings, will make your skin crawl and run from him even now - btw, this song reached number 1 on the charts - http://youtu.be/qJFVPxBpezk. Once you wipe off the slime of that gem, quickly turn to the more relaxed serial kidnap-then-rape-then-leave them in another town mellow vibe of "Chevy Van" as sung by Sammy Johns - http://youtu.be/IBNRfZlGatw. Such a mellow vibe can't disguise the complete inappropriateness of this 70's classic that made it to number 3 on the charts. Finally, since I could go on and on but should end before I start to look like a creepo for knowing so many of these songs, I must end with a little ode to suicide that I can't help singing along with because of its bouncy, light tune which makes the song so infectious. I'm speaking, of course, of my long time fave "Alone Again (Naturally)" by Gilbert O"Sullivan. So much sorrow in such a light hit that also made it to number 3 on the Top 40 charts - http://youtu.be/D_P-v1BVQn8. All of these remind me of how in the 80's my mom routinely sang along with Marvin Gaye's hit "Sexual Healing" never knowing what she was actually saying, at least that was until my sister and I pointed out what the song was really saying. To her credit, while she stopped singing the lyrics, she continued to enjoy the groovy R&B mastery of Marvin. Here's to those super creepy songs that somehow made it to huge hits with no one stopping to say, "Hey, what the heck did that guy just say?" Enjoy!

Sam Smith - A New Artist With Skill As A Writer And A Performer. This guy is the real deal!

Music Wed - Two surprises - First, for the first time in a long while, here is a Music Wed on a Wed! Second, I am taking a break from our jaunt through the 80's to highlight a new artist who will have his first album released later this month. If you have not heard Sam Smith, you will have a real treat this week. He appeared on SNL 3 weeks ago, and I loved his two-song performance so much, I pre-ordered his first album just based on the two songs he performed that night. Now, as other songs are being leaked, I cannot WAIT for the full album to hit. Enjoy these tasty treats from Mr. Smith - "Stay With Me" http://youtu.be/2n8k_bdOe94 and "Lay Me Down" http://youtu.be/dgJBKU9ALa0.  I promise that these songs will stick in your head. This guy writes and performs some really good new music. Bonus cut -  pretty fun Bruno Mars cover by Sam - http://youtu.be/xZIrzWcoCoU. Enjoy!

80's Hair Bands - Nuff Said!

Music Wed - Part 4 of our musical trip through the 80's, and I am psyched up, because I have cracked the code! I have solved the riddle. I feel like Robert Langdon in the Dan Brown novels when he realizes the painting he has been staring at holds the key to resolving his problems. My dilemma in this case was how to address Hair Metal bands from the 80's without having any sarcasm, even derision, I feel for this genre of 80's music leak through and dilute songs and bands I wanted to share.  My solution? I will be giving out my first (and only) Hair Metal Band Awards in various categories that I hope you find as amusing as I do as I have been thinking about this post once I had my "Da Vinci Code" aha moment. The first award is in the category of "Sure-that-girl-is-good-looking-but-that-lead-singer-is-way-hotter." And the winner is David Coverdale of Whitesnake. Yes, Tawny Kataen was hot and sexy rolling around on those luxury cars, but check out David's flowing, golden locks; his flawless skin; his crazy outfits. Any way you look at it, he (like many hair metal lead singers) was just plain hotter than the former strippers and groupies that were featured in their videos. Here's a little proof -  http://youtu.be/me_n5uhjQvU - Whitesnake/Tawny Kataen tribute video. Next award is in the category of "Well-they-may-not-have-any-discernible-talent-as-songwriters/performers-but-they-sure-are-having-so-much-fun-that-you-can't-stop-from-joining-in." The winner, of course, is Poison. Could they write an intelligible lyric? Was there any evidence they could do more than play up to five notes on any instrument? But, when their songs came on, could you resist the urge to bang your head (at least a little), tap your feet and sing along? Here's the evidence to support their award - http://youtu.be/xCChxBSRo1Y - "Talk Dirty to Me". Our next award is, "You-can-bitch-all-you-want-about-the-burdens-of-life-on-the-road-but-your-videos-sure-make-it-look-like-you-are-having-more-legal and illegal-fun-than-anyone-should-expect-from-this-life." We have co-winners with Bon Jovi's "Wanted Dead or Alive" http://youtu.be/SRvCvsRp5ho and Mötley Crüe's "Home Sweet Home" http://youtu.be/3WAZ60xA9wo.  I have a Lifetime Achievement Award for the band who proved you can spend more on drugs even if you are given a few million dollars to make a video, and this honor goes to none other than Guns N Roses for "November Rain" http://youtu.be/8SbUC-UaAxE. I would like to give honorable mention for those brave performers who never let the idiotic fashion or hair style trends stop them from rockin' - bands like Loverboy http://youtu.be/oUuSvJhZXfQ, Damn Yankees http://youtu.be/k0Wf1u5At4k, White Lion  http://youtu.be/pk2U41uvOlI, and Skid Row  http://youtu.be/ivFYVAntpw0. As fun as this has been (at least for me), all things must come to an end, so my final award goes to the "D-Bag Rocker of the 80's", which coveted recognition goes to none other than Kip Winger of the band he creatively named Winger. Watch this and tell me I'm wrong -   http://youtu.be/GlN3oEjMpUQ.  Honorable mention for a "group-that-defies-any-category" is given to Twisted Sister. What the hell were they thinking - http://youtu.be/V9AbeALNVkk.  Enjoy!

80's Just Keep On Coming with The Cure, General Public and Talking Heads

Music Wed - Part 3 of the Gift-That-Keeps-On-Giving = the 80's tribute continues. I feel like I'm still rolling downhill because I have not had to tread in the dark, unsafe waters of some of the sketchy 80's messes, but am still able to skip along the tops of the waves of great bands with lasting songs. This week I'm going to focus on three very personal favorites who gave me hours of listening joy during this odd decade. First is my favorite London ska band, General Public. You can't get more 80's than Ranking Roger - a performer whose only contribution was to dance next to the lead singer. Oddly, this was a common role in many bands, but RR was certainly an early adopter and still one of the best at doing next to nothing. The band, however, left us with some memorable tunes like "Save It For Later" (http://youtu.be/h-QkQoNCmg4), and "Tenderness" (http://youtu.be/kDOqYyflGl0). Next up is The Cure - I just love the whole concept of this group of original emos. Robert Smith was and still is a star performer, as shown on these tasty morsels -- "Love Song"  http://youtu.be/yB6cybj394U (and here is a bonus Adele cover that is awesome - http://youtu.be/i5bpYECjPJ4), "Pictures Of You" (http://youtu.be/wIOimCvrypE), and for kicks, let's add "Friday I'm In Love", cuz it is such a fun song! http://youtu.be/P3Bg7yDUVnI.  Since I'm not quite ready to deal with Depeche Mode, I want to end this entry with Talking Heads - a band that mixed poly rhythms with a funky bass heavy sound, all topped off by David Byrne's edgy (and sometimes creepy) vocal performances -- this complex band really rolls up all that is good about the early 80's in one gumbo of sound: in quick succession, let's hit "And She Was" (http://youtu.be/GgKOgPu9sEk), followed by "Once In A Lifetime" (http://youtu.be/o7pVjl4Rrtc), and "Life During Wartime" http://youtu.be/xzORu1dqEE0 (this version captures their live energy) plus "Psycho Killer" http://youtu.be/pA1oFSMwRDU (this highlights Mr Byrne's non-traditional approach). Enough for tonight - Enjoy!

80's Celebration - Culture Club, TFF and The Pretenders! They still rule!

Music Wed - Part 2 of the Moment-I'm-Starting-To-Really-Have-Some-Fun-With. This week's dive into 80's music is keeping the foot firmly on the accelerator with no thought of braking. This week required very little contemplation, because I knew I could not waste another moment without having fun with three bands I love as much today as I did 30 years ago - Culture Club, Tears For Fears and The Pretenders. Besides the genre challenging look and attitude of CC, there is no doubt that Boy George wrote and sang great pop songs. Little known fact - Boy George worshipped Gladys Knight and mimicked her when he sang his ballads. Here is a sampling of some of my favorite Culture Club songs that may not have been the very top hits, but they showcase everything I love about this band = "Miss Me Blind" (Live at Hammersmith Odeon -  http://youtu.be/2qUxhy2JkN8); next is my personal fave, "Black Money" (featuring the great Helen Terry - http://youtu.be/GcePJssPnRU); and let's wrap up with a deep cut, "Victims" (again with the inimitable Helen Terry - http://youtu.be/dN2S1NqTOgc).  I loved TFF from their first album, which was inspired when Roland and Curt met at a primal scream encounter, Songs From The Big Chair, to their last great album, Sowing the Seeds of Love. Let's get rolling with a song that no one can resist tapping their toes to and singing along with, "Everybody Wants to Rule The World" -  http://youtu.be/KHoJPUHG83g; then let's switch to the song that both rocks and introduced the world to the powerhouse voice of Oleta Adams, "Woman In Chains" - http://youtu.be/nYFFTpg0t9g (hang in through the weird intro because the live version is killer); and I'm torn between ending with "Shout" or "Sowing the Seeds of Love", so here they both are -- http://youtu.be/1682rQdaYCE and http://youtu.be/I99byzYZbBI.  Finally the great Chrissie Hynde and The Pretenders. The song that turned me on to them was the slightly atmospheric, odd early tune, "Talk of the Town"- http://youtu.be/VzU5gsnSHfU, moving right in to the hard rockin' "Middle of the Road" - http://youtu.be/hONtmFgh3IQ (hang in thru the weird intro from a Brit pop show or rock out to this recent live version which shows that ole Chrissie still has the chops http://youtu.be/-CYsOGTA0eo); and let's finish this songfest with "My City Was Gone" (which rolls into a medley with "Needle and the Damage Done" - too cool!) http://youtu.be/g9-CUHi4CpA. Enjoy!

Part I of The 80's! Elvis, Roxy Music and REM

Music Wed - Part 1 of the Moment-I've-Been-Dreading = An analysis of 80's music. I have an oft-expressed love/hate relationship with this decade. Sure, it produced some great music and spawned classic bands - U2 and REM were born in this time period. This also was the era that gave us hair bands, Bon Jovi, MTV-created bands, Huey Lewis & The News, Tiffany - shall I go on? But I know many of you love music from this decade, so I am finally chasing my white whale in an effort to capture my thoughts and feelings about 80's music. After much contemplation, I will begin with my first installment which will be dedicated to true New Wave pioneers. Now, first let me establish a few ground rules - I will not discuss U2 = I already have paid tribute to them and they are, for me! the greatest band to be borne of this decade. I also am excluding acts that had great success in the 80's, but were borne in the 70's, i.e., The Police, Van Halen, The Eagles, Bowie, Bruce, etc. So, to get this party started, let me give a nod to masters of New Wave music who went on to diversify their tastes and showcase their deep talents. I'm talking about Elvis Costello and Bryan Ferry and Roxy Music. Both created wildly different music, but have grown as artists and demonstrated early on that good 80's pop music could be plain old good music. Check out the following tasty nibbles = "Alison" http://youtu.be/h99neu9HtQA (1st live appearance!), "What's So Wrong With Peace Love and Understanding" http://youtu.be/lhol3zIoynE (check out the Bangles jumping in stage to dance!), "Every Day I Write the Book" http://youtu.be/lhLztdvgpFY and "Watching The Detectives" http://youtu.be/K--POHTLGY0 (this is an absolutely wicked live version) from Elvis and his early bands, The Attractions and The Imposters. Next is Bryan Ferry's Roxy Music included such musical masters as Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, who went on to produce Bowie's best 80's music and to shape U2's seminal movement into ambient and dance music in the 90's. The effect of these artists stretches far, and check out this early Roxy Music classic gems "Love is the Drug" http://youtu.be/0n3OepDn5GU, "Avalon" http://youtu.be/bpA_5a0miWk and "More Than This" http://youtu.be/kOnde5c7OG8. Finally, let me pay tribute to the second greatest band from the 80's, REM. This band singly made local, indy/college bands relevant and inspired the creation of the chart on Rolling Stone magazine for College Radio. Here are some early REM classics -- "Its the End of the World" http://youtu.be/u2UhvN0k74w , "Everybody Hurts" http://youtu.be/NLlOeGeVih4, "Stand" http://youtu.be/AKKqLl_ZEEY, and "Radio Free Europe" http://youtu.be/KA57Pafq_NU. The more I discuss the subject of 80's music with friends, the longer the series becomes. Let's start with these clear winners and move from there. Enjoy!