1) “Jailer” -- Asa [1-27-09]. A smooth and modern fusion of R&B, soul and African jazz from a formidable new siren out of Nigeria.
2) “Feel It” – DJ Felli Fel feat. T-Pain, Sean Paul, Flo Rida and Pitbull [2-10-09]. A monster line-up of hip-hop stars showcase their collaborative talent on this big-time club banger.
3) “Love, Save the Empty” – Erin McCarley [1-6-09]. Rich-voiced singer-songwriter deals out an array of throaty, moody tracks.
4) “I Love College” – Asher Roth [1-13-09]. A white boy rap applauding the indulgences of sex, drug, drinking and rock and roll that goes down in college.
5) “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)” – Pitbull [2-24-09]. Dance-able, hippity-hop backbeat, along with the sing-along “uno, dos, tres quarto”lyrics charges this track from Cuban-American-emcee rapper.
6) “Supplier” – Shawty Lo feat. Lil Wayne and Trey Songz. Loaded to the gills with upbeat cameos, you feel part of the bling-bling R&B party.
7) “Black Velvet” – Ferry Corsten [1-27-09]. One of the founding fathers of Dutch trance launches this clubby melodramatic electro-dance track with comic-strip-character female vocals.
8) “Brandy of the Damned” – Nickel Eye [1-17-09]. Nikolai Fraiture, bassist from The Strokes, works his guitar through a repetitive pub rock refrain “Don’t Let Them Get you Down, They’ll Step on you to Get to Higher Ground.”
9) “ABC’s” – K’naan [1-27-09]. Punchy and aware, this hip-hop track by rising Somalia-born star is filled with old school backbeat -- raps traded with Chubb Rock -- and a big back-up chorus.
10) “Day Dreaming’” – DJ Drama feat. Akon and Snoop Dogg [1-12-09]. Akon and Snoop Dogg (-- one version includes T.I. as well! -- ) carry the tune for this underground hip-hop track that features a “g” who ponders his his fantasy girl, a go-go dancer.
11) “Dreamgirl” – Tay Dizm featuring Akon [1-9-09] Another clean R&B pop single with Akon carrying the fluffy melody and “Nappy Boy” making punctuating cameos.
12) “The Heartbreak Rides” – A.C. Newman [1-20-09]. From the prolific musician of New Pornographers fame, this solo effort fully embraces the indie alternative genre with dueling guitars and shared harmonies.
13) “I’m Throwing My Arms Around Paris” – Morrissey [1-20-09]. More than anything, it’s good to hear from Morrissey again – on this hit single from his forthcoming album -- flinging and repetitive, but upbeat.
14) “You Can Get it All” – Bow Wow featuring Johnta Austin [unreleased]. An easy R&B track, over a groovin’ backbeat with big vibrato background vocals.
15) “Sugar Lee” – Damon Fowler [1-27-09]. The kind of song that fills up the dance floor and brims with electric blues jams.
16) “Pressure” – Company of Thieves [1-6-09]. An alt—indie track featuring sweet, slightly off-tune female vocals by Genevieve Schatz from this bass-free power trio.
17) “I Don’t Know” – Lisa Hannigan [2-3-09]. A spare, pretty and simple song featuring melt-your-heart vocals from former Damien Rice side-kick.
18) “Get On Your Boots” – U2 [1-20-09]. An evolved, dance-worthy, and refreshingly un-high horse, post-punk rocker from the forthcoming album scheduled for release in March.
19) “Walking on a Dream” – Empire of the Sun [un-released]. Aussie duo pumps out an upbeat electro-charged pop dance tune.
20) “Blood Bank” – Bon Iver [1-20-09]. Wisconsin troubadour Justin Vernon’s easy vocals and mellow acoustic guitar mark his sophomore solitary effort.
21) “When She’s Near” – Fiction Family [1-20-09]. A short and sweet vocal-acoustic debut from Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman and Nickelcreek guitarist Sean Watkins.
22) “No You Girls” – Franz Ferdinand [1-24-09]. A catchy dirty pop track from the post-punk Glasgow quartet.
ALSO NOTABLE …
23) Block Party” – Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes feat. Shawty-Lo [1-27-09]. From her final album – EYE LEGACY -- before her tragic death in 2002 and only now released in the U.S., this track is re-worked and retro-fitted with the help of Lil Mama.
24) “Wake Up” (Afro – Fantabulous Mix) – Beef Wellington with Eugene Snowden, Swamburger from OPEN Remix, benefiting IntraHealth OPEN (2009). Swirling with tropical percussion and horns and yummy guitars and alive with soulful vocals and lyrics from the Orlando native.
25) “Unreachable” – John Frusciante [1-20-09]. An almost-eerie, moody psychedelic indie track from Red Hot Chili Pepper rocker.
26) “Heartbroken, in Disrepair” -- Dan Auerbach [2-10-09]. – Big electric bluesey-rocker; a solo effort from Black Keys frontman.
27) “The Future’s Nothing New” – The Alternate Routes [2-10-09]. Heavy on the electric guitar and slightly repetitive, but a solid alt-rock number from this foursome out of Bridgeport, Connecticut.
28) “So Human” – (“Close to Me by “The Cure”) -- Lady Sovereign [2009]. A rip on the cult classic alt-rock tune form the 80’s, done by sassy Brit rapper.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Smokin New Covers of Great Old Songs 2-25-09
1. “So Human” – (“Close to Me by “The Cure”) -- Lady Sovereign [2009]. A rip on the cult classic alt-rock tune form the 80’s, done by sassy Brit rapper.
2. “Right Round” – (Dead or Alive) -- Flo-rida [2-1-09]. This hip-hop version is an instant pop R&B smash with its shameless rip on the 80’s dance classic by Dead or Alive.
3. “When I Fall in Love” – Renee Olstead [1-27-09]. A fresh rendition of this classic from The Great American Songbook by Miley-Cyrus-like media megastar teenager.
4. “Veronica Sawyer” – (Edna Goldfish) – Reel Big Fish [1-20-09]. An upbeat ska and modern-rock rendition of the pop original.
5. “Womanizer” – (Britney Spears) – Lily Allen [leaked 12-1-08]. Every bit as poppy as the original but front- loaded with a slower pace and charming cockney Brit accent for which Lily Allen is known.
6. “At Last” (Etta Jones) – Beyonce (from Music From The Motion Picture Cadillac Records) [12-2-08]. The talented R&B diva pays homage to the original by belting out the bluesey classic like a champ.
7. “Turn Your Lights Down Low” (Bob Marley) – Colbie Caillet [11-11-08]. While it’s hard not to love this Bob Markey classic, it’s Malibu and MySpace’s Colbie Caillet (in duet) at her pretty and simple best.
8. “Live Your Life and Flo with Whatever You like [Medley] – Straight No Chaser [1-20-09]. A cleverly strung-together a capella medley of recent hit hip-hop tracks including “Low,” “Whatever You Like” and “Live Your Life.”
9. “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa” (Vampire Weekend) – Peter Gabriel and Hot Chip (12-15-08). More synthy and less islandy atmospheric, Gabriel’s familiar voice rings through on this cover of Vampire Weekend’s relatively new track.
10. “Let’s Take a Walk” - Raphael Saadiq (from Music From The Motion Picture Cadillac Records) [12-2-08]. A contemporary soulful push on original dance hall boogie.
11. “For What It’s Worth (Buffalo Springfield) – Mavis Staples [11-4-08]. Loaded with soul, this live version goes down at “The HideOut,” a small Chicago night club. Put your hands in the air and join in!
12. “I Don’t Wanna Be in Love” Dance Floor Anthem (Good Charlotte) – Metro Station [11-24-08]. An electro-rock rendition of the original classic by Good Charlotte.
13. “Time of Your Life” (Green Day) – Glen Campbell [8-18-08]. Complete with big country strings, Glen Campbell makes a comeback with this rockin’ cover.
14. “People Get Ready” – Seal [11-11-08]. Along with the rest of the 60’s era-covers packed into this album -- entitled SOUL -- this one does soulful justice to the original a la Seal’s brave and beautiful voice.
15. “How Deep is Your Love” (Bee Gees) – The Bird and the Bee [5-27-08] from SEX AND THE CITY SOUNDTRACK. A sweet-as-pie,light and airy female vocal rendering of the disco icon.
16. “Til there was you” – Cassandra Wilson [6-10-08]. With a delicious, smoky alto, this contemporary jazz madam from Jackson, Mississippi, reinvents this classic from the Great American Songbook and gives it new life.
17. “Folsom Prison Blues” (Johnny Cash) – Everlast [9-23-08]. Whitey Ford is the former front-man for House of Pain is the unlikely source for this version of the classic country track.
18. “Look of Love” – Sergio Mendes and Fergie (Dusty Springfield) [6-10-08]. The Brazilian Bossa Nova master teams up with Fergie (highlighted by a cameo by Will.I.am) to churn out an original and groovy version of the classic.
19. “Umbrella” (Rihanna) – Marie Digby [4-8-08]. Original and daring acoustic singer-songwriter approach to this R&B smash hit.
20. “Angel Dream”(Tom Petty) – Glen Campbell [8-18-08]. With a strings medley scooping out the background, country crooner Glen Campbell puts his own spin on Tom Petty’s magical classic.
21. “My Favorite Things” (Sound of Music) – Yo Yo Ma featuring Chris Botti [10-14-08]. Interpretive instrumental featuring Ma’s spectacular cello with a jazz-like take on the beloved original.
22. “The Heart of the Matter” (Don Henley) – IndiaArie [5-27-08] from SEX AND THE CITY SOUNDTRACK. A clean and simple rendition of Don Henley’s classic sails brightly from this R&B star’s rich, soulful voice with inspired pockets by background singers.
23. “Slow” (Kylie Mingoue) – Tricky [9-2-08]. A downtempo, punky duet version of the pop diva’s dance track.
24. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” (U2) – Ba Cissoko [4-1-08]. An original, African take on this rock classic with fore and background singers, bongos and guitars.
25. “Walkin’ my Baby Back Home” (Dean Martin) – Natalie Cole and Nat King Cole [9-9-08]. An old school classic remade as daughter & daddy duet.
2. “Right Round” – (Dead or Alive) -- Flo-rida [2-1-09]. This hip-hop version is an instant pop R&B smash with its shameless rip on the 80’s dance classic by Dead or Alive.
3. “When I Fall in Love” – Renee Olstead [1-27-09]. A fresh rendition of this classic from The Great American Songbook by Miley-Cyrus-like media megastar teenager.
4. “Veronica Sawyer” – (Edna Goldfish) – Reel Big Fish [1-20-09]. An upbeat ska and modern-rock rendition of the pop original.
5. “Womanizer” – (Britney Spears) – Lily Allen [leaked 12-1-08]. Every bit as poppy as the original but front- loaded with a slower pace and charming cockney Brit accent for which Lily Allen is known.
6. “At Last” (Etta Jones) – Beyonce (from Music From The Motion Picture Cadillac Records) [12-2-08]. The talented R&B diva pays homage to the original by belting out the bluesey classic like a champ.
7. “Turn Your Lights Down Low” (Bob Marley) – Colbie Caillet [11-11-08]. While it’s hard not to love this Bob Markey classic, it’s Malibu and MySpace’s Colbie Caillet (in duet) at her pretty and simple best.
8. “Live Your Life and Flo with Whatever You like [Medley] – Straight No Chaser [1-20-09]. A cleverly strung-together a capella medley of recent hit hip-hop tracks including “Low,” “Whatever You Like” and “Live Your Life.”
9. “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa” (Vampire Weekend) – Peter Gabriel and Hot Chip (12-15-08). More synthy and less islandy atmospheric, Gabriel’s familiar voice rings through on this cover of Vampire Weekend’s relatively new track.
10. “Let’s Take a Walk” - Raphael Saadiq (from Music From The Motion Picture Cadillac Records) [12-2-08]. A contemporary soulful push on original dance hall boogie.
11. “For What It’s Worth (Buffalo Springfield) – Mavis Staples [11-4-08]. Loaded with soul, this live version goes down at “The HideOut,” a small Chicago night club. Put your hands in the air and join in!
12. “I Don’t Wanna Be in Love” Dance Floor Anthem (Good Charlotte) – Metro Station [11-24-08]. An electro-rock rendition of the original classic by Good Charlotte.
13. “Time of Your Life” (Green Day) – Glen Campbell [8-18-08]. Complete with big country strings, Glen Campbell makes a comeback with this rockin’ cover.
14. “People Get Ready” – Seal [11-11-08]. Along with the rest of the 60’s era-covers packed into this album -- entitled SOUL -- this one does soulful justice to the original a la Seal’s brave and beautiful voice.
15. “How Deep is Your Love” (Bee Gees) – The Bird and the Bee [5-27-08] from SEX AND THE CITY SOUNDTRACK. A sweet-as-pie,light and airy female vocal rendering of the disco icon.
16. “Til there was you” – Cassandra Wilson [6-10-08]. With a delicious, smoky alto, this contemporary jazz madam from Jackson, Mississippi, reinvents this classic from the Great American Songbook and gives it new life.
17. “Folsom Prison Blues” (Johnny Cash) – Everlast [9-23-08]. Whitey Ford is the former front-man for House of Pain is the unlikely source for this version of the classic country track.
18. “Look of Love” – Sergio Mendes and Fergie (Dusty Springfield) [6-10-08]. The Brazilian Bossa Nova master teams up with Fergie (highlighted by a cameo by Will.I.am) to churn out an original and groovy version of the classic.
19. “Umbrella” (Rihanna) – Marie Digby [4-8-08]. Original and daring acoustic singer-songwriter approach to this R&B smash hit.
20. “Angel Dream”(Tom Petty) – Glen Campbell [8-18-08]. With a strings medley scooping out the background, country crooner Glen Campbell puts his own spin on Tom Petty’s magical classic.
21. “My Favorite Things” (Sound of Music) – Yo Yo Ma featuring Chris Botti [10-14-08]. Interpretive instrumental featuring Ma’s spectacular cello with a jazz-like take on the beloved original.
22. “The Heart of the Matter” (Don Henley) – IndiaArie [5-27-08] from SEX AND THE CITY SOUNDTRACK. A clean and simple rendition of Don Henley’s classic sails brightly from this R&B star’s rich, soulful voice with inspired pockets by background singers.
23. “Slow” (Kylie Mingoue) – Tricky [9-2-08]. A downtempo, punky duet version of the pop diva’s dance track.
24. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” (U2) – Ba Cissoko [4-1-08]. An original, African take on this rock classic with fore and background singers, bongos and guitars.
25. “Walkin’ my Baby Back Home” (Dean Martin) – Natalie Cole and Nat King Cole [9-9-08]. An old school classic remade as daughter & daddy duet.
Featured New Artists 2-25-09
1) Erin McCarley – “Love, Save the Empty” from LOVE, SAVE THE EMPTY [1-6-09]. A singer-songwriter and Texas-gone soCal performer with an ethereally sweet voice creates an acoustic adult-alt-pop track.
2) Damon Fowler -- “Sugar Shack” from SUGAR SHACK [1-27-09]. The kind of album that you turn on and the dance floor just fills up – and stays that way through every track -- brimming with electric blues jams.
3) Dan Auerbach -- “Heartbroken, in Disrepair” from KEEP IT HID [2-10-09]. – Big electric bluesey-rocker; a solo effort from Black Keys frontman.
4) Nickel Eye – “Brandy of the Damned” from THE TIME OF THE ASSASINS [1-17-09]. An angsty extra-curricular project from three members of The Strokes where Nikolai Fraiture (bassist) works his guitar through a repetitive indie rocker.
5) Bon Iver – “Blood Bank” (single) [1-20-09]. Wisconsin troubadour Justin Vernon’s easy vocals and mellow acoustic guitar mark his sophomore solitary effort.
6) Lisa Hannigan – “I Don’t Know” from SEA SEW [2-3-09]. A spare, pretty and simple song featuring melt-your-heart vocals from former Damien Rice side-kick.
7) Fiction Family – “When She’s Near” from FICTION FAMILY [1-20-09]. A short and sweet vocal-acoustic debut from Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman and Nickelcreek guitarist Sean Watkins.
8) The Black Ghosts – “Full Moon” from THE BLACK GHOSTS [12-23-08]. – A slightly retro, haunting and plaintive acoustic groove from duet formerly of UK’s Simian on their self-titled debut album.
9) Shwayze – “Buzzin” from SHWAYZE [8-18-08]. Shwayze’s debut hip-hop track combines Malibu beach rap with Cisco Adler’s indie-rock groove.
10) Lady GaGa – “Poker Face” single [12-16-08]. Stacking up agreeable dance-pop tracks, this young writer-producer-performer-musician from New York gets straight to what appeals.
11) Carolina Liar -- “I’m Not Over” from COMING TO TERMS [5-19-08]. A good energy anthem rock tune by L.A. alt-rocker Chad Wolf.
12) Kerli -- “Walking on Air” from LOVE IS DEAD [7-8-08]. On her debut album, this blonde bombshell from Estonia churns out a pop tune that combines dance beats with stints of creepy emo disharmony.
13) The Airborne Toxic Event -- “Sometime Around Midnight” from THE AIRBORNE TOXIC EVENT [8-5-08]. Irresistible pop track song – think rock and roll version of “Lady in Red” -- that compels you to listen.
14) Jay Rock – All My Life (single) [7-10-08]. It helps to have Lil Wayne and Will.i.am show up for a cameo on your first major hip-hop release; a good groovin’ track nonetheless.
15) Kevin Rudolf -- “Let it Rock” (feat. LilWayne) from IN THE CITY [11-24-08]. On top of an irresistible pop rock sound, complete with synthesized guitar riffs broken, there’s the unlikely rockin’ appearance by Lil Wayne.
16) Chairlift -- “Bruises” from DOES YOU INSPIRE YOU [11-11-08]. Alternating clear, easy vocals and synthy percussion background combine in this upbeat, indie-alt track.
17) Flight of the Conchords – “Business Time” from FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS [4-29-08]. An amusing Barry White-rip on sexual foreplay.
18) Lenka -- “The Show” from LENKA [9-9-08]. Sweet, whimsical, crème pouf-of-an-indie female vocalist from Australia gets behind this coffee shop-euro-pop single.
19) The Mighty Underdogs – “Escape” from DROPPIN’ SCIENCE FICTION [10-14-08]. Experimental West Coast hip-hop with smooth melodies, piano and percussions overlaid with fresh, mixed-raps.
20) Meiko – “Boys with Girlfriends” from MEIKO [2008]. Easy, Light-as-air female vocalist out of Roberta, Georgia.
21) Estelle -- “Just a Touch” from SHINE [4-29-08]. A unique blend of R&B and hip-hop, Estelle’s luscious British vocals dances through this original dance track from her stateside debut album.
22) Shontelle -- “T-Shirt” [7-15-08]. A contagious new pop track from an R&B sensation who’s fast on Rihanna’s heels to becoming the newest “it” girl out of Barbados.
2) Damon Fowler -- “Sugar Shack” from SUGAR SHACK [1-27-09]. The kind of album that you turn on and the dance floor just fills up – and stays that way through every track -- brimming with electric blues jams.
3) Dan Auerbach -- “Heartbroken, in Disrepair” from KEEP IT HID [2-10-09]. – Big electric bluesey-rocker; a solo effort from Black Keys frontman.
4) Nickel Eye – “Brandy of the Damned” from THE TIME OF THE ASSASINS [1-17-09]. An angsty extra-curricular project from three members of The Strokes where Nikolai Fraiture (bassist) works his guitar through a repetitive indie rocker.
5) Bon Iver – “Blood Bank” (single) [1-20-09]. Wisconsin troubadour Justin Vernon’s easy vocals and mellow acoustic guitar mark his sophomore solitary effort.
6) Lisa Hannigan – “I Don’t Know” from SEA SEW [2-3-09]. A spare, pretty and simple song featuring melt-your-heart vocals from former Damien Rice side-kick.
7) Fiction Family – “When She’s Near” from FICTION FAMILY [1-20-09]. A short and sweet vocal-acoustic debut from Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman and Nickelcreek guitarist Sean Watkins.
8) The Black Ghosts – “Full Moon” from THE BLACK GHOSTS [12-23-08]. – A slightly retro, haunting and plaintive acoustic groove from duet formerly of UK’s Simian on their self-titled debut album.
9) Shwayze – “Buzzin” from SHWAYZE [8-18-08]. Shwayze’s debut hip-hop track combines Malibu beach rap with Cisco Adler’s indie-rock groove.
10) Lady GaGa – “Poker Face” single [12-16-08]. Stacking up agreeable dance-pop tracks, this young writer-producer-performer-musician from New York gets straight to what appeals.
11) Carolina Liar -- “I’m Not Over” from COMING TO TERMS [5-19-08]. A good energy anthem rock tune by L.A. alt-rocker Chad Wolf.
12) Kerli -- “Walking on Air” from LOVE IS DEAD [7-8-08]. On her debut album, this blonde bombshell from Estonia churns out a pop tune that combines dance beats with stints of creepy emo disharmony.
13) The Airborne Toxic Event -- “Sometime Around Midnight” from THE AIRBORNE TOXIC EVENT [8-5-08]. Irresistible pop track song – think rock and roll version of “Lady in Red” -- that compels you to listen.
14) Jay Rock – All My Life (single) [7-10-08]. It helps to have Lil Wayne and Will.i.am show up for a cameo on your first major hip-hop release; a good groovin’ track nonetheless.
15) Kevin Rudolf -- “Let it Rock” (feat. LilWayne) from IN THE CITY [11-24-08]. On top of an irresistible pop rock sound, complete with synthesized guitar riffs broken, there’s the unlikely rockin’ appearance by Lil Wayne.
16) Chairlift -- “Bruises” from DOES YOU INSPIRE YOU [11-11-08]. Alternating clear, easy vocals and synthy percussion background combine in this upbeat, indie-alt track.
17) Flight of the Conchords – “Business Time” from FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS [4-29-08]. An amusing Barry White-rip on sexual foreplay.
18) Lenka -- “The Show” from LENKA [9-9-08]. Sweet, whimsical, crème pouf-of-an-indie female vocalist from Australia gets behind this coffee shop-euro-pop single.
19) The Mighty Underdogs – “Escape” from DROPPIN’ SCIENCE FICTION [10-14-08]. Experimental West Coast hip-hop with smooth melodies, piano and percussions overlaid with fresh, mixed-raps.
20) Meiko – “Boys with Girlfriends” from MEIKO [2008]. Easy, Light-as-air female vocalist out of Roberta, Georgia.
21) Estelle -- “Just a Touch” from SHINE [4-29-08]. A unique blend of R&B and hip-hop, Estelle’s luscious British vocals dances through this original dance track from her stateside debut album.
22) Shontelle -- “T-Shirt” [7-15-08]. A contagious new pop track from an R&B sensation who’s fast on Rihanna’s heels to becoming the newest “it” girl out of Barbados.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
RollnSmoke Reviews: ANGELS AND AGES
Angels and Ages: A Short Book about Darwin, Lincoln and Modern Life by Adam Gopnik (Knopf, 2009).
I very much enjoyed Adam Gopnik’s two previous memoirs Paris to the Moon and Through the Children’s Gate, each light, journalistic gems that capture intimate moments and thoughts about his family life abroad and in New York City. It’s possible that achieving a true appreciation for this more recent endeavor by Gopnik requires a sharper mind than my own, but the thesis that he posits which joins the icon of emancipation (Abraham Lincoln) with the icon of evolution (Charles Darwin) is as meandering as the title suggests. Most interesting is the somewhat trivial fact that Darwin and Lincoln share a birthday (February 12, 1809) as well as the less well-known fact that both men endured tragic deaths of their favorite children. In fact, it’s only when Gopnik explores the personal aspects of these well known historical figures that the reader’s interest is peaked. Otherwise, Gopnik’s comparative thematic thread is bogged down by his own obscure interests and streaming philosophy and remains tenuous at best and sometimes even boring (6/10).
I very much enjoyed Adam Gopnik’s two previous memoirs Paris to the Moon and Through the Children’s Gate, each light, journalistic gems that capture intimate moments and thoughts about his family life abroad and in New York City. It’s possible that achieving a true appreciation for this more recent endeavor by Gopnik requires a sharper mind than my own, but the thesis that he posits which joins the icon of emancipation (Abraham Lincoln) with the icon of evolution (Charles Darwin) is as meandering as the title suggests. Most interesting is the somewhat trivial fact that Darwin and Lincoln share a birthday (February 12, 1809) as well as the less well-known fact that both men endured tragic deaths of their favorite children. In fact, it’s only when Gopnik explores the personal aspects of these well known historical figures that the reader’s interest is peaked. Otherwise, Gopnik’s comparative thematic thread is bogged down by his own obscure interests and streaming philosophy and remains tenuous at best and sometimes even boring (6/10).
Sunday, February 15, 2009
The New 22 -- The Best New Songs Released in the Past 60 days -- 2/15/09
1) “I Love College” – Asher Roth [1-13-09]. A white boy rap applauding the indulgences of sex, drug, drinking and rock and roll that goes down in college.
2) “New Schools”—The Sea and Cake [10-21-08]. From October album release CAR ALARM (that snuck under Roll’s Rador!) an easy rock trio feauturing magnificent electric guitar riffs over streaming acoustic backbeat and day-dreamy vocals.
3) “Jailer” -- Asa [1-27-09]. NIGERIA. A smooth and modern fusion of R&B, soul and African jazz.
4) “Around the Bend” – Asteroids Galaxy Tour [10-21-08]. Another October release that snuck under the radar when first released but busted open when featured on “Gossip Girls,” this pop single features big horns and indie vocals to get the good times on “around the bend.”
5) “Black River” – Gui Barrato Remix by Bomb the Bass [12-16-08]. From Berlin’s !K7 label 2008 compilation, this tune features smoky vocals over an electronica-soul backbeat.
6) “Day Dreaming’” – DJ Drama feat. Akon and Snoop Dogg [1-12-09]. Akon and Snoop Dogg (-- one version includes T.I. as well! -- ) carry the tune for this underground hip-hop track that features a “g” who ponders his his fantasy girl, a go-go dancer.
7) “Supplier” – Shawty Lo feat. Lil Wayne and Trey Songz. Loaded to the gills with upbeat cameos, you feel part of the bling-bling R&B party.
8) “Calle Ocho” – Pitbull. Dance-able, hippity-hop backbeat, along with the sing-along “uno, dos, tres quarto”lyrics charges this track from Cuban-American-emcee rapper.
9) “ABC’s” – K’naan [1-27-09]. Punchy and aware, this hip-hop track by rising Somalia-born star is filled with old school backbeat -- raps traded with Chubb Rock -- and a big back-up chorus.
10) “Love, Save the Empty” – Erin McCarley [1-6-09]. Rich-voiced singer-songwriter deals out an array of throaty, moody tracks.
11) “You’re Not All That” – Herbaliser [12-16-08]. Retro soul track complete with deep-down lyrics and big band horns from !K7’s 2008 compilation Christmas release.
12) “Brandy of the Damned” – Nickel Eye [1-17-09]. Nikolai Fraiture, bassist from The Strokes, works his guitar through a repetitive pub rock refrain “Don’t Let Them Get you Down, They’ll Step on you to Get to Higher Ground.”
13) “The Heartbreak Rides” – A.C. Newman [1-20-09]. From the prolific musician of New Pornographers fame, this solo effort fully embraces the indie alternative genre with dueling guitars and shared harmonies.
14) “Black Velvet” – Ferry Corsten [1-27-09]. One of the founding fathers of Dutch trance launches this clubby melodramatic electro-dance track.
15) “I’m Throwing My Arms Around Paris” – Morrissey [1-20-09]. More than anything, it’s good to hear from Morrissey again – on this hit single from his forthcoming album -- flinging and repetitive, but upbeat.
16) “Dreamgirl” – Tay Dizm featuring Akon [1-9-09] Another clean R&B pop single with Akon carrying the fluffy melody and “Nappy Boy” making punctuating cameos.
17) “That’s How I Go” – Baby bash feat. Mario [12-23-08]. A slower R&B groove, explaining all the gravy and the busy world-tour because that’s how “I Go.”
18) “You Can Get it All” – Bow Wow featuring Johnta Austin [2-3-09]. An easy R&B track, over a groovin’ backbeat with big vibrato background vocals.
19) “Get On Your Boots” – U2 [1-20-09]. An evolved, dance-worthy, and refreshingly un-high horse, post-punk rocker from the forthcoming album scheduled for release in March.
20) “Walking on a Dream” – Empire of the Sun [un-released]. Aussie duo pumps out an upbeat electro-charged pop dance tune.
21) “Blood Bank” – Bon Iver [1-20-09]. Wisconsin troubadour Justin Vernon’s easy vocals and mellow acoustic guitar mark his sophomore solitary effort.
22) “When She’s Near” – Fiction Family [1-20-09]. A short and sweet vocal-acoustic debut from Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman and Nickelcreek guitarist Sean Watkins.
ALSO NOTABLE …
23) “Therapy” – India.Arie featuring Gramps Morgan [12-16-08]. India.Arie’s rich and soulful voice combines with upbeat acoustic backbeat -- sugary sweet, with supporting background vocals by Gramps Morgan.
24) “Full Moon” – The Black Ghosts [12-23-08]. – A slightly retro, haunting and plaintive acoustic groove from duet formerly of UK’s Simian on their self-titled debut album.
25) “Block Party” – Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes feat. Shawty-Lo [1-27-09]. From her final album – EYE LEGACY -- before her tragic death in 2002 and only now released in the U.S., this track is re-worked and retro-fitted with the help of Lil Mama.
26) “No You Girls” – Franz Ferdinand [1-24-09]. A catchy dirty pop track from the post-punk Glasgow quartet.
27) “Poker Face” – Lady GaGa [12-16-08]. Electro-rock dance tune with pop vocals against an R&B backbeat.
28) “Dirt Room” – Blue October [12-23-08]. A gritty, hard rock tune from alternative brother-band from Texas.
29) “Right Round” – Flo-rida [2-1-09]. This hip-hop version is an instant pop R&B smash with its shameless rip on the 80’s dance classic by Dead or Alive.
2) “New Schools”—The Sea and Cake [10-21-08]. From October album release CAR ALARM (that snuck under Roll’s Rador!) an easy rock trio feauturing magnificent electric guitar riffs over streaming acoustic backbeat and day-dreamy vocals.
3) “Jailer” -- Asa [1-27-09]. NIGERIA. A smooth and modern fusion of R&B, soul and African jazz.
4) “Around the Bend” – Asteroids Galaxy Tour [10-21-08]. Another October release that snuck under the radar when first released but busted open when featured on “Gossip Girls,” this pop single features big horns and indie vocals to get the good times on “around the bend.”
5) “Black River” – Gui Barrato Remix by Bomb the Bass [12-16-08]. From Berlin’s !K7 label 2008 compilation, this tune features smoky vocals over an electronica-soul backbeat.
6) “Day Dreaming’” – DJ Drama feat. Akon and Snoop Dogg [1-12-09]. Akon and Snoop Dogg (-- one version includes T.I. as well! -- ) carry the tune for this underground hip-hop track that features a “g” who ponders his his fantasy girl, a go-go dancer.
7) “Supplier” – Shawty Lo feat. Lil Wayne and Trey Songz. Loaded to the gills with upbeat cameos, you feel part of the bling-bling R&B party.
8) “Calle Ocho” – Pitbull. Dance-able, hippity-hop backbeat, along with the sing-along “uno, dos, tres quarto”lyrics charges this track from Cuban-American-emcee rapper.
9) “ABC’s” – K’naan [1-27-09]. Punchy and aware, this hip-hop track by rising Somalia-born star is filled with old school backbeat -- raps traded with Chubb Rock -- and a big back-up chorus.
10) “Love, Save the Empty” – Erin McCarley [1-6-09]. Rich-voiced singer-songwriter deals out an array of throaty, moody tracks.
11) “You’re Not All That” – Herbaliser [12-16-08]. Retro soul track complete with deep-down lyrics and big band horns from !K7’s 2008 compilation Christmas release.
12) “Brandy of the Damned” – Nickel Eye [1-17-09]. Nikolai Fraiture, bassist from The Strokes, works his guitar through a repetitive pub rock refrain “Don’t Let Them Get you Down, They’ll Step on you to Get to Higher Ground.”
13) “The Heartbreak Rides” – A.C. Newman [1-20-09]. From the prolific musician of New Pornographers fame, this solo effort fully embraces the indie alternative genre with dueling guitars and shared harmonies.
14) “Black Velvet” – Ferry Corsten [1-27-09]. One of the founding fathers of Dutch trance launches this clubby melodramatic electro-dance track.
15) “I’m Throwing My Arms Around Paris” – Morrissey [1-20-09]. More than anything, it’s good to hear from Morrissey again – on this hit single from his forthcoming album -- flinging and repetitive, but upbeat.
16) “Dreamgirl” – Tay Dizm featuring Akon [1-9-09] Another clean R&B pop single with Akon carrying the fluffy melody and “Nappy Boy” making punctuating cameos.
17) “That’s How I Go” – Baby bash feat. Mario [12-23-08]. A slower R&B groove, explaining all the gravy and the busy world-tour because that’s how “I Go.”
18) “You Can Get it All” – Bow Wow featuring Johnta Austin [2-3-09]. An easy R&B track, over a groovin’ backbeat with big vibrato background vocals.
19) “Get On Your Boots” – U2 [1-20-09]. An evolved, dance-worthy, and refreshingly un-high horse, post-punk rocker from the forthcoming album scheduled for release in March.
20) “Walking on a Dream” – Empire of the Sun [un-released]. Aussie duo pumps out an upbeat electro-charged pop dance tune.
21) “Blood Bank” – Bon Iver [1-20-09]. Wisconsin troubadour Justin Vernon’s easy vocals and mellow acoustic guitar mark his sophomore solitary effort.
22) “When She’s Near” – Fiction Family [1-20-09]. A short and sweet vocal-acoustic debut from Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman and Nickelcreek guitarist Sean Watkins.
ALSO NOTABLE …
23) “Therapy” – India.Arie featuring Gramps Morgan [12-16-08]. India.Arie’s rich and soulful voice combines with upbeat acoustic backbeat -- sugary sweet, with supporting background vocals by Gramps Morgan.
24) “Full Moon” – The Black Ghosts [12-23-08]. – A slightly retro, haunting and plaintive acoustic groove from duet formerly of UK’s Simian on their self-titled debut album.
25) “Block Party” – Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes feat. Shawty-Lo [1-27-09]. From her final album – EYE LEGACY -- before her tragic death in 2002 and only now released in the U.S., this track is re-worked and retro-fitted with the help of Lil Mama.
26) “No You Girls” – Franz Ferdinand [1-24-09]. A catchy dirty pop track from the post-punk Glasgow quartet.
27) “Poker Face” – Lady GaGa [12-16-08]. Electro-rock dance tune with pop vocals against an R&B backbeat.
28) “Dirt Room” – Blue October [12-23-08]. A gritty, hard rock tune from alternative brother-band from Texas.
29) “Right Round” – Flo-rida [2-1-09]. This hip-hop version is an instant pop R&B smash with its shameless rip on the 80’s dance classic by Dead or Alive.
Best New Music from Around the World -- 2-15-09
1. “Jailer” -- Asa [1-27-09]. NIGERIA. A smooth and modern fusion of R&B, soul and African jazz.
2. “ABC’s” – K’naan [1-27-09]. SOMALIA. Punchy and aware, this hip-hop track by rising Somalia-born star is filled with old school backbeat -- raps traded with Chubb Rock -- and a big back-up chorus.
3. “Black Velvet” – Ferry Corsten [1-27-09]. NETHERLANDS. One of the founding fathers of Dutch trance launches this clubby melodramatic electro-dance track.
4. “Advent in Ives Garden – Sin Fang Bous. ICELAND. A punchy, high-energy synth pop track.
5. “Wake Up – It’s Africa Calling” – Youssou N’Dour [2-11-09]. SENEGAL. A sweeping, smooth remix with big percussion, horns and synthy sounds from the OPEN REMIX, a consciousness-raising track regarding the plights of Africa, benefitting IntraHealth.
6. “Jai Ho” – Feauturing Sukhvinder Singh, Tanvi Shah and Mahalaxmi from MUSIC FROM the MOTION PICTURE SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE [11-24-08]. INDIA. A throbbing and soaring and inspirational electro-combo of sounds and voices overseen by A.R. Rahman, the Indian film composer who wrote 11 of the 13 tracks on this soundtrack (including this one).
7. “Walking on a Dream” – Empire of the Sun [un-released]. AUSTRALIA. Aussie duo pumps out an upbeat electro-charged pop dance tune.
8. “Conchaperla” – Novalima [1-13-09]. PERU. Showcasing their Afro-Peruvian groove, this quartet rings in soul and groove on this lead track from their most recent album.
9. “Beijo De Saudade” – Mariza [1-27-09]. MOZAMBIQUE/PORTUGAL. A duet featuring the sultry alto, empress of old school fado, born in Mozambique and raised in Lisbon, which is often considered the birthplace of dado.
10. “Walking on Air” – Kerli [7-8-08]. ESTONIA. On her debut album, this blonde bombshell from Estonia churns out a pop tune that combines dance beats with stints of creepy emo disharmony.
11. “Tuve un sueno” – R.K.M. & Ken-Y [9-9-08]. PUERTO RICO. A reggaetón hit from hip-hop duo out of Puerto Rico.
12. “El Vestido” – Juana Molina [10-07-08]. ARGENTINA. With its soft percussions and ethereal, atmospheric presentation, one gets lost in the whimsy of this Argentine’s artist’s musical re”rendering.
13. “The Show” – Lenka [9-9-08]. AUSTRALIA. Sweet, whimsical, crème pouf-of-an-indie female vocalist.
14. “Luna” – Eddy Lover [8-12-08]. COLUMBIA A smooth and happy dance track with a saucy south of the border sound from reggaeton Columbian cowboy.
15. “Young Folks” – Peter Bjorn and John [3-18-08]. From “21” Soundtrack. SWEDEN. Peter takes vocals and guitar, John takes drums and Bjorn covers the keyboards in this whistling, new age-punk track.
16. “CobraStyle” – Robyn [4-29-08]. SWEDEN. This striking, blonde Swedish bombshell lays out a unique electronica pop sound that pulses with big dance club backbeats.
17. “Mad Pursuit” – Junkie XL from “21” Soundtrack [3-18-08]. NETHERLANDS. Glassy female lyrics bounce along contemporary, sometimes wacky guitar riffs and snappy backbeats.
18. “Chan Chan” -- BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB (Live @ CARNEGIE HALL) [10-14-08]. CUBA. A powerful landmark performance, particularly the kick-off treasure of a track from this old school Cuban band guided by Ry Cooder.
19. “Entoto Dub” – Dub Colossus [10-7-08]. ETHIOPIA. Co-founder of Transglobal Underground, Nick Page teams up with Ethiopian and English artists to create intriguing, atmospheric and exotic groove dubs.
20. “Na Hay Nadie Como Tu” – Calle 13 feat. Cafa Tacuba [10-7-08}. PUERTO RICO. Reggaeton group featuring two brothers rips out a danceable track with traditional instruments.
21. “Ha Ha” – Emiliano Torrini [9-9-08]. ICELAND. This Singer-songwriter, a more mainstream Bjork, uses simple melody as a showcase for her almost child-like voice.
22. “Little Bit” – Lykke Li [8-19-08]. SWEDEN. The EP hit her debut album, minimalist arrangement coupled with a pixie voice makes for an appealing pop tune.
23. “Those Girls” – Kinky [10-7-08]. MEXICO. A slickly produced 80’s-new-wave-sounding track from hipsters out of Monterrey, Mexico.
24. “La Paloma” – Sidestepper from THE BUENA VIBRA SOUND SYSTEM [8-5-08]. COLUMBIA. Free form jazz track from a blend of Afro-Columbian tracks.
25. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” – Bas Cissoko from the album VARIOUS ARTISTS – IN THE NAME OF LOVE: AFRICA CELBRATES U2 [4-1-08]. AFRICA. An original, African take on this rock classic with fore and background singers, bongos and guitars.
26. “Foux du Fafa” – Flight of the Conchords from FLIGHT OF CONCHORDS [4-29-08]. NEW ZEALAND. Created by a goofy duet who won the Grammy for Best Comedy Album, this lounge track makes fun all things French.
27. “Merua” – from UMALALI: THE GARIFUNA WOMEN’S PROJECT [3-18-08]. CENTRAL AMERICA: The Garifuna people are descendents of African slaves who intermarried with Carib and Arawak Indians and live along the Caribbean coasts of Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua and Guatemala. Here vocals are provided by Chella Torres and Desere Diego for a track that oozes a traditional Afro-Cuban vibe.
28. “New Soul” – Yael Naim [3-18-08]. FRANCE/ISRAEL. Accented and sweet-voiced female vocals scored big when Apple used this debut song in one of its commercials.
2. “ABC’s” – K’naan [1-27-09]. SOMALIA. Punchy and aware, this hip-hop track by rising Somalia-born star is filled with old school backbeat -- raps traded with Chubb Rock -- and a big back-up chorus.
3. “Black Velvet” – Ferry Corsten [1-27-09]. NETHERLANDS. One of the founding fathers of Dutch trance launches this clubby melodramatic electro-dance track.
4. “Advent in Ives Garden – Sin Fang Bous. ICELAND. A punchy, high-energy synth pop track.
5. “Wake Up – It’s Africa Calling” – Youssou N’Dour [2-11-09]. SENEGAL. A sweeping, smooth remix with big percussion, horns and synthy sounds from the OPEN REMIX, a consciousness-raising track regarding the plights of Africa, benefitting IntraHealth.
6. “Jai Ho” – Feauturing Sukhvinder Singh, Tanvi Shah and Mahalaxmi from MUSIC FROM the MOTION PICTURE SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE [11-24-08]. INDIA. A throbbing and soaring and inspirational electro-combo of sounds and voices overseen by A.R. Rahman, the Indian film composer who wrote 11 of the 13 tracks on this soundtrack (including this one).
7. “Walking on a Dream” – Empire of the Sun [un-released]. AUSTRALIA. Aussie duo pumps out an upbeat electro-charged pop dance tune.
8. “Conchaperla” – Novalima [1-13-09]. PERU. Showcasing their Afro-Peruvian groove, this quartet rings in soul and groove on this lead track from their most recent album.
9. “Beijo De Saudade” – Mariza [1-27-09]. MOZAMBIQUE/PORTUGAL. A duet featuring the sultry alto, empress of old school fado, born in Mozambique and raised in Lisbon, which is often considered the birthplace of dado.
10. “Walking on Air” – Kerli [7-8-08]. ESTONIA. On her debut album, this blonde bombshell from Estonia churns out a pop tune that combines dance beats with stints of creepy emo disharmony.
11. “Tuve un sueno” – R.K.M. & Ken-Y [9-9-08]. PUERTO RICO. A reggaetón hit from hip-hop duo out of Puerto Rico.
12. “El Vestido” – Juana Molina [10-07-08]. ARGENTINA. With its soft percussions and ethereal, atmospheric presentation, one gets lost in the whimsy of this Argentine’s artist’s musical re”rendering.
13. “The Show” – Lenka [9-9-08]. AUSTRALIA. Sweet, whimsical, crème pouf-of-an-indie female vocalist.
14. “Luna” – Eddy Lover [8-12-08]. COLUMBIA A smooth and happy dance track with a saucy south of the border sound from reggaeton Columbian cowboy.
15. “Young Folks” – Peter Bjorn and John [3-18-08]. From “21” Soundtrack. SWEDEN. Peter takes vocals and guitar, John takes drums and Bjorn covers the keyboards in this whistling, new age-punk track.
16. “CobraStyle” – Robyn [4-29-08]. SWEDEN. This striking, blonde Swedish bombshell lays out a unique electronica pop sound that pulses with big dance club backbeats.
17. “Mad Pursuit” – Junkie XL from “21” Soundtrack [3-18-08]. NETHERLANDS. Glassy female lyrics bounce along contemporary, sometimes wacky guitar riffs and snappy backbeats.
18. “Chan Chan” -- BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB (Live @ CARNEGIE HALL) [10-14-08]. CUBA. A powerful landmark performance, particularly the kick-off treasure of a track from this old school Cuban band guided by Ry Cooder.
19. “Entoto Dub” – Dub Colossus [10-7-08]. ETHIOPIA. Co-founder of Transglobal Underground, Nick Page teams up with Ethiopian and English artists to create intriguing, atmospheric and exotic groove dubs.
20. “Na Hay Nadie Como Tu” – Calle 13 feat. Cafa Tacuba [10-7-08}. PUERTO RICO. Reggaeton group featuring two brothers rips out a danceable track with traditional instruments.
21. “Ha Ha” – Emiliano Torrini [9-9-08]. ICELAND. This Singer-songwriter, a more mainstream Bjork, uses simple melody as a showcase for her almost child-like voice.
22. “Little Bit” – Lykke Li [8-19-08]. SWEDEN. The EP hit her debut album, minimalist arrangement coupled with a pixie voice makes for an appealing pop tune.
23. “Those Girls” – Kinky [10-7-08]. MEXICO. A slickly produced 80’s-new-wave-sounding track from hipsters out of Monterrey, Mexico.
24. “La Paloma” – Sidestepper from THE BUENA VIBRA SOUND SYSTEM [8-5-08]. COLUMBIA. Free form jazz track from a blend of Afro-Columbian tracks.
25. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” – Bas Cissoko from the album VARIOUS ARTISTS – IN THE NAME OF LOVE: AFRICA CELBRATES U2 [4-1-08]. AFRICA. An original, African take on this rock classic with fore and background singers, bongos and guitars.
26. “Foux du Fafa” – Flight of the Conchords from FLIGHT OF CONCHORDS [4-29-08]. NEW ZEALAND. Created by a goofy duet who won the Grammy for Best Comedy Album, this lounge track makes fun all things French.
27. “Merua” – from UMALALI: THE GARIFUNA WOMEN’S PROJECT [3-18-08]. CENTRAL AMERICA: The Garifuna people are descendents of African slaves who intermarried with Carib and Arawak Indians and live along the Caribbean coasts of Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua and Guatemala. Here vocals are provided by Chella Torres and Desere Diego for a track that oozes a traditional Afro-Cuban vibe.
28. “New Soul” – Yael Naim [3-18-08]. FRANCE/ISRAEL. Accented and sweet-voiced female vocals scored big when Apple used this debut song in one of its commercials.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
RollnSmoke Reviews: THE PIANO TEACHER
RollnSmokeRecords Review: THE PIANO TEACHER by Janice Y.K. Lee (Viking, 2009)
A debut novel released with (too) much acclaim by Hong Kong native and Harvard graduate Janice Y.K. Lee is set in Hong Kong, featuring one tryst that happens before and during the Japanese Occupation of the 1940’s and another that occurs post-occupation in the 1950’s. Both love affairs involve Will Truesdale, a displaced anglo without much identity, who hangs his hat on the largely unhappy affairs he has with Eurasion socialite Trudy Liange and later, with ex-pat Claire Pendleton. While Lee provides the reader with intriguing snippets of time and place, focusing on an often overlooked period during World War One -- the occupation of Hong Kong by Japanese forces -- the characters she portrays aren’t very complex; indeed, they’re not that interesting, even in their spiral downward from Gatsbyesque high-life to the daily dregs of life spent in a P-O-W camp. None of the characters are very nice to each other; in fact, they’re often cruel and always narcissistic, so that the reader has a hard time mustering sympathy for any of them. While the pace is quick and the storyline is compelling enough for the reader to want to finish the novel, the writing is plain and the unraveling of the plot is disjointed and sometimes melodramatic. 7.5/10
A debut novel released with (too) much acclaim by Hong Kong native and Harvard graduate Janice Y.K. Lee is set in Hong Kong, featuring one tryst that happens before and during the Japanese Occupation of the 1940’s and another that occurs post-occupation in the 1950’s. Both love affairs involve Will Truesdale, a displaced anglo without much identity, who hangs his hat on the largely unhappy affairs he has with Eurasion socialite Trudy Liange and later, with ex-pat Claire Pendleton. While Lee provides the reader with intriguing snippets of time and place, focusing on an often overlooked period during World War One -- the occupation of Hong Kong by Japanese forces -- the characters she portrays aren’t very complex; indeed, they’re not that interesting, even in their spiral downward from Gatsbyesque high-life to the daily dregs of life spent in a P-O-W camp. None of the characters are very nice to each other; in fact, they’re often cruel and always narcissistic, so that the reader has a hard time mustering sympathy for any of them. While the pace is quick and the storyline is compelling enough for the reader to want to finish the novel, the writing is plain and the unraveling of the plot is disjointed and sometimes melodramatic. 7.5/10
Sunday, February 8, 2009
RollnSmokeRecords on The 2009 Grammys
The kick-off award at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards went to Jennifer Hudson (for Best R&B Album) who was composed and gracious, thanking her family “up in heaven” as well as those who joined her at The Staples Center tonight. Then there was Justin Timberlake, unapologetically white and from Memphis, pairing up with Soul legend Al Green (and later with T.I.) to sing “Let’s Stay Together” as a duet – how do you not sing along? -- even if Al was off-tune. But kudos to Al, who stepped-in at the last minute for Rihanna who was scheduled to sing a “Live Your Life/Disturbia” medley. Rihanna, along with boyfriend and fellow R&B star Chris Brown, were no-shows as scheduled Grammy performers tonight due to sudden and scandalous assault charges levied against Brown by a woman -- some believe to be Rihanna -- in Los Angeles earlier today.
Off tune did you say? Why you must have heard Coldplay performing their Disney-like-song “Viva La Vida,” which was way out of Chris Martin‘s range. Straining, he was out of breath and sweating like a pig. Real boy scouts, the lot of them.
Then there was Carrie Underwood, vampy, with those sick pipes and those long, Malibu-Barbie legs. And all night long there were big horns – trumpets, saxophones, trombones – backing up song after song.
Brave girls, Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus! Not to mention big, pregnant M.I.A. – due to have her baby – today!! -- who looked like a huge bumble bee on stage with Kanye, Jay Z and ‘Lil Wayne as they performed the “Rap Pack” track “Swagger Like Us.”
Thankfully, The Jonas Brothers did not win any awards, but they did perform with Stevie Wonder, and if one of them yelled out “Come on, Stevie” or “Take it, Stevie” one more time, RollnSmoke might have had to pull the plug on the whole business. It was too much, all that swarming Stevie at his keyboards like a pack of gnats. Katy Perry was also awful, singing her (overplayed) hit “I Kissed I Girl and I Liked it” though her props – namely descending to the stage dressed like the Fruit of the Loom Lady inside a huge sparkling banana -- were fun.
Winner of Best Rap Album, Lil Wayne, performed (with Robin Thicke) a surprisingly melodic and un-synthed tribute to his home, a still-recovering New Orleans. Robert Plant and Alison Krauss nailed their spooky blues rendition of “Rich Woman” with T-Bone groovin’ the bass guitar, even if their Album of the Year award was an anti-climactic end to the evening.
Off tune did you say? Why you must have heard Coldplay performing their Disney-like-song “Viva La Vida,” which was way out of Chris Martin‘s range. Straining, he was out of breath and sweating like a pig. Real boy scouts, the lot of them.
Then there was Carrie Underwood, vampy, with those sick pipes and those long, Malibu-Barbie legs. And all night long there were big horns – trumpets, saxophones, trombones – backing up song after song.
Brave girls, Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus! Not to mention big, pregnant M.I.A. – due to have her baby – today!! -- who looked like a huge bumble bee on stage with Kanye, Jay Z and ‘Lil Wayne as they performed the “Rap Pack” track “Swagger Like Us.”
Thankfully, The Jonas Brothers did not win any awards, but they did perform with Stevie Wonder, and if one of them yelled out “Come on, Stevie” or “Take it, Stevie” one more time, RollnSmoke might have had to pull the plug on the whole business. It was too much, all that swarming Stevie at his keyboards like a pack of gnats. Katy Perry was also awful, singing her (overplayed) hit “I Kissed I Girl and I Liked it” though her props – namely descending to the stage dressed like the Fruit of the Loom Lady inside a huge sparkling banana -- were fun.
Winner of Best Rap Album, Lil Wayne, performed (with Robin Thicke) a surprisingly melodic and un-synthed tribute to his home, a still-recovering New Orleans. Robert Plant and Alison Krauss nailed their spooky blues rendition of “Rich Woman” with T-Bone groovin’ the bass guitar, even if their Album of the Year award was an anti-climactic end to the evening.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Please Leave Michael Phelps Alone
Please leave Michael Phelps alone. He has won 14 career Olympic gold medals in swimming for The United States – the most for any Olympian ever -- and he’s held seven world records. He’s 23 years old, used to training for 12 hours a day, every day and deserves to cut it loose and recreate responsibly. His only mistake: The British tabloids got a picture. He has apologized numerous times to all offended, let’s move on and not pile on.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Featured New Artists
1) Fiction Family – “When She’s Near” from FICTION FAMILY [1-20-09]. A short and sweet vocal-acoustic debut from Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman and Nickelcreek guitarist Sean Watkins.
2) The Black Ghosts – “Full Moon” from THE BLACK GHOSTS [12-23-08]. – A slightly retro, haunting and plaintive acoustic groove from duet formerly of UK’s Simian on their self-titled debut album.
3) Shwayze – “Buzzin” from SHWAYZE [8-18-08]. Shwayze’s debut hip-hop track combines Malibu beach rap with Cisco Adler’s indie-rock groove.
4) Lady GaGa – “Poker Face” single [12-16-08]. Stacking up agreeable dance-pop tracks, this young writer-producer-performer-musician from New York gets straight to what appeals.
5) Carolina Liar -- “I’m Not Over” from COMING TO TERMS [5-19-08]. A good energy anthem rock tune by L.A. alt-rocker Chad Wolf.
6) Kerli -- “Walking on Air” from LOVE IS DEAD [7-8-08]. On her debut album, this blonde bombshell from Estonia churns out a pop tune that combines dance beats with stints of creepy emo disharmony.
7) The Airborne Toxic Event -- “Sometime Around Midnight” from THE AIRBORNE TOXIC EVENT [8-5-08]. Irresistible pop track song – think rock and roll version of “Lady in Red” -- that compels you to listen.
8) Jay Rock – All My Life (single) [7-10-08]. It helps to have Lil Wayne and Will.i.am show up for a cameo on your first major hip-hop release; a good groovin’ track nonetheless.
9) Kevin Rudolf -- “Let it Rock” (feat. LilWayne) from IN THE CITY [11-24-08]. On top of an irresistible pop rock sound, complete with synthesized guitar riffs broken, there’s the unlikely rockin’ appearance by Lil Wayne.
10) Chairlift -- “Bruises” from DOES YOU INSPIRE YOU [11-11-08]. Alternating clear, easy vocals and synthy percussion background combine in this upbeat, indie-alt track.
11) Duffy – “Mercy” from ROCK FERRY [2-11-08]. With a Motown backbeat and a retro soul sound, this Welsh bouffant blonde beauty knocks out a groovy dance tune with Dusty Springfield-like husky vocals.
12) The Heavy Circles -- “Henri” from THE HEAVY CIRCLES [2-12-08]. With a Johnny-Cash, pow-wow-like backbeat, an intriguing alternative rock track with smoky female vocals.
13) Flight of the Conchords – “Business Time” from FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS [4-29-08]. An amusing Barry White-rip on sexual foreplay.
14) Wayna -- “Moonlight Rendezvous” from HIGHER GROUND [2-19-08]. A debut release that’s at once soulful and sexy, featuring unique female vocals that move to a distinct groove.
15) Lenka -- “The Show” from LENKA [9-9-08]. Sweet, whimsical, crème pouf-of-an-indie female vocalist from Australia gets behind this coffee shop-euro-pop single.
16) The Mighty Underdogs – “Escape” from DROPPIN’ SCIENCE FICTION [10-14-08]. Experimental West Coast hip-hop with smooth melodies, piano and percussions overlaid with fresh, mixed-raps.
17) Meiko – “Boys with Girlfriends” from MEIKO [2008]. Easy, Light-as-air female vocalist out of Roberta, Georgia.
18) Estelle -- “Just a Touch” from SHINE [4-29-08]. A unique blend of R&B and hip-hop, Estelle’s luscious British vocals dances through this original dance track from her stateside debut album.
19) She and Him – “Why Do You Let Me Stay Here” from VOLUME ONE [3-18-08]. Singer-songwriter Zooey Claire Deschanel covers all the tracks on this debut alternative album with her classic girl-next door voice coupled with M. Ward who provides the simple musical groundwork.
20) Shontelle -- “T-Shirt” [7-15-08]. A contagious new pop track from an R&B sensation who’s fast on Rihanna’s heels to becoming the newest “it” girl out of Barbados.
2) The Black Ghosts – “Full Moon” from THE BLACK GHOSTS [12-23-08]. – A slightly retro, haunting and plaintive acoustic groove from duet formerly of UK’s Simian on their self-titled debut album.
3) Shwayze – “Buzzin” from SHWAYZE [8-18-08]. Shwayze’s debut hip-hop track combines Malibu beach rap with Cisco Adler’s indie-rock groove.
4) Lady GaGa – “Poker Face” single [12-16-08]. Stacking up agreeable dance-pop tracks, this young writer-producer-performer-musician from New York gets straight to what appeals.
5) Carolina Liar -- “I’m Not Over” from COMING TO TERMS [5-19-08]. A good energy anthem rock tune by L.A. alt-rocker Chad Wolf.
6) Kerli -- “Walking on Air” from LOVE IS DEAD [7-8-08]. On her debut album, this blonde bombshell from Estonia churns out a pop tune that combines dance beats with stints of creepy emo disharmony.
7) The Airborne Toxic Event -- “Sometime Around Midnight” from THE AIRBORNE TOXIC EVENT [8-5-08]. Irresistible pop track song – think rock and roll version of “Lady in Red” -- that compels you to listen.
8) Jay Rock – All My Life (single) [7-10-08]. It helps to have Lil Wayne and Will.i.am show up for a cameo on your first major hip-hop release; a good groovin’ track nonetheless.
9) Kevin Rudolf -- “Let it Rock” (feat. LilWayne) from IN THE CITY [11-24-08]. On top of an irresistible pop rock sound, complete with synthesized guitar riffs broken, there’s the unlikely rockin’ appearance by Lil Wayne.
10) Chairlift -- “Bruises” from DOES YOU INSPIRE YOU [11-11-08]. Alternating clear, easy vocals and synthy percussion background combine in this upbeat, indie-alt track.
11) Duffy – “Mercy” from ROCK FERRY [2-11-08]. With a Motown backbeat and a retro soul sound, this Welsh bouffant blonde beauty knocks out a groovy dance tune with Dusty Springfield-like husky vocals.
12) The Heavy Circles -- “Henri” from THE HEAVY CIRCLES [2-12-08]. With a Johnny-Cash, pow-wow-like backbeat, an intriguing alternative rock track with smoky female vocals.
13) Flight of the Conchords – “Business Time” from FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS [4-29-08]. An amusing Barry White-rip on sexual foreplay.
14) Wayna -- “Moonlight Rendezvous” from HIGHER GROUND [2-19-08]. A debut release that’s at once soulful and sexy, featuring unique female vocals that move to a distinct groove.
15) Lenka -- “The Show” from LENKA [9-9-08]. Sweet, whimsical, crème pouf-of-an-indie female vocalist from Australia gets behind this coffee shop-euro-pop single.
16) The Mighty Underdogs – “Escape” from DROPPIN’ SCIENCE FICTION [10-14-08]. Experimental West Coast hip-hop with smooth melodies, piano and percussions overlaid with fresh, mixed-raps.
17) Meiko – “Boys with Girlfriends” from MEIKO [2008]. Easy, Light-as-air female vocalist out of Roberta, Georgia.
18) Estelle -- “Just a Touch” from SHINE [4-29-08]. A unique blend of R&B and hip-hop, Estelle’s luscious British vocals dances through this original dance track from her stateside debut album.
19) She and Him – “Why Do You Let Me Stay Here” from VOLUME ONE [3-18-08]. Singer-songwriter Zooey Claire Deschanel covers all the tracks on this debut alternative album with her classic girl-next door voice coupled with M. Ward who provides the simple musical groundwork.
20) Shontelle -- “T-Shirt” [7-15-08]. A contagious new pop track from an R&B sensation who’s fast on Rihanna’s heels to becoming the newest “it” girl out of Barbados.
Newly Released Covers of Great Old Songs
1. “Right Round” – (Dead or Alive) -- Flo-rida [un-released]. This hip-hop version is an instant pop R&B smash with its shameless rip on the 80’s dance classic by Dead or Alive.
2. “Womanizer” – (Britney Spears) – Lily Allen [leaked 12-1-08]. Every bit as poppy as the original but front- loaded with a slower pace and charming cockney Brit accent for which Lily Allen is known.
3. “At Last” (Etta Jones) – Beyonce (from Music From The Motion Picture Cadillac Records) [12-2-08]. The talented R&B diva pays homage to the original by belting out the bluesey classic like a champ.
4. “Turn Your Lights Down Low” (Bob Marley) – Colbie Caillet [11-11-08]. While it’s hard not to love this Bob Markey classic, it’s Malibu and MySpace’s Colbie Caillet (in duet) at her pretty and simple best.
5. “Live Your Life and Flo with Whatever You like [Medley] – Straight No Chaser [1-20-09]. A cleverly strung-together a capella medley of recent hit hip-hop tracks including “Low,” “Whatever You Like” and “Live Your Life.”
6. “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa” (Vampire Weekend) – Peter Gabriel and Hot Chip (12-15-08). More synthy and less islandy atmospheric, Gabriel’s familiar voice rings through on this cover of Vampire Weekend’s relatively new track.
7. “Let’s Take a Walk” - Raphael Saadiq (from Music From The Motion Picture Cadillac Records) [12-2-08]. A contemporary soulful push on original dance hall boogie.
8. “For What It’s Worth (Buffalo Springfield) – Mavis Staples [11-4-08]. Loaded with soul, this live version goes down at “The HideOut,” a small Chicago night club. Put your hands in the air and join in!
9. “I Don’t Wanna Be in Love” Dance Floor Anthem (Good Charlotte) – Metro Station [11-24-08]. An electro-rock rendition of the original classic by Good Charlotte.
10. “Time of Your Life” (Green Day) – Glen Campbell [8-18-08]. Complete with big country strings, Glen Campbell makes a comeback with this rockin’ cover.
11. “Wanna Be Startin’ Something” Remix (Michael Jackson) – Akon with Michael Jackson [1/22/2008]. Akon’s own version of this classic dance anthem holds fast to the familiar “mama say mama sa mama mapoosa” backbeat, blending Akon’s popular hip-hop grooves with Michael Jackson’s classic R&B vibe.
12. “Wonderwall” (Oasis) – Brad Mehldau [3-25-08]. Jazz pianist tackles cover of Oasis classic with instrumental aplomb.
13. “I Can’t Stand the Rain” – Seal [11-11-08]. Along with the rest of the 60’s era-covers packed into his latest album -- entitled SOUL -- this one does soulful justice to the original a la Seal’s brave and beautiful voice.
14. “How Deep is Your Love” (Bee Gees) – The Bird and the Bee [5-27-08] from SEX AND THE CITY SOUNDTRACK. A sweet-as-pie,light and airy female vocal rendering of the disco icon.
15. “Til there was you” – Cassandra Wilson [6-10-08]. With a delicious, smoky alto, this contemporary jazz madam from Jackson, Mississippi, reinvents this classic from the Great American Songbook and gives it new life.
16. “Folsom Prison Blues” (Johnny Cash) – Everlast [9-23-08]. Whitey Ford is the former front-man for House of Pain is the unlikely source for this version of the classic country track.
17. “Look of Love” – Sergio Mendes and Fergie (Dusty Springfield) [6-10-08]. The Brazilian Bossa Nova master teams up with Fergie (highlighted by a cameo by Will.I.am) to churn out an original and groovy version of the classic.
18. “Umbrella” (Rihanna) – Marie Digby [4-8-08]. Original and daring acoustic singer-songwriter approach to this R&B smash hit.
19. “Angel Dream”(Tom Petty) – Glen Campbell [8-18-08]. With a strings medley scooping out the background, country crooner Glen Campbell puts his own spin on Tom Petty’s magical classic.
20. “My Favorite Things” (Sound of Music) – Yo Yo Ma featuring Chris Botti [10-14-08]. Interpretive instrumental featuring Ma’s spectacular cello with a jazz-like take on the beloved original.
21. “The Heart of the Matter” (Don Henley) – IndiaArie [5-27-08] from SEX AND THE CITY SOUNDTRACK. A clean and simple rendition of Don Henley’s classic sails brightly from this R&B star’s rich, soulful voice with inspired pockets by background singers.
22. “Slow” (Kylie Mingoue) – Tricky. [9-2-08]. A downtempo, punky duet version of the pop diva’s dance track.
23. “Lollipop” (Lil Wayne) -- Framing Hanley [1-21-08]. An unexpected hard guitar take on the hip-hop original.
24. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” (U2) – Ba Cissoko [4-1-08]. An original, African take on this rock classic with fore and background singers, bongos and guitars.
25. “Walk like an Egyptian” (The Bangles) – The Puppini Sisters [2-12-08] Delightful a cappella and Bugle-boy-esque cover of a memorable 80’s dance number.
26. “Walkin’ my Baby Back Home” (Dean Martin) – Natalie Cole and Nat King Cole [9-9-08]. An old school classic remade as daughter & daddy duet.
2. “Womanizer” – (Britney Spears) – Lily Allen [leaked 12-1-08]. Every bit as poppy as the original but front- loaded with a slower pace and charming cockney Brit accent for which Lily Allen is known.
3. “At Last” (Etta Jones) – Beyonce (from Music From The Motion Picture Cadillac Records) [12-2-08]. The talented R&B diva pays homage to the original by belting out the bluesey classic like a champ.
4. “Turn Your Lights Down Low” (Bob Marley) – Colbie Caillet [11-11-08]. While it’s hard not to love this Bob Markey classic, it’s Malibu and MySpace’s Colbie Caillet (in duet) at her pretty and simple best.
5. “Live Your Life and Flo with Whatever You like [Medley] – Straight No Chaser [1-20-09]. A cleverly strung-together a capella medley of recent hit hip-hop tracks including “Low,” “Whatever You Like” and “Live Your Life.”
6. “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa” (Vampire Weekend) – Peter Gabriel and Hot Chip (12-15-08). More synthy and less islandy atmospheric, Gabriel’s familiar voice rings through on this cover of Vampire Weekend’s relatively new track.
7. “Let’s Take a Walk” - Raphael Saadiq (from Music From The Motion Picture Cadillac Records) [12-2-08]. A contemporary soulful push on original dance hall boogie.
8. “For What It’s Worth (Buffalo Springfield) – Mavis Staples [11-4-08]. Loaded with soul, this live version goes down at “The HideOut,” a small Chicago night club. Put your hands in the air and join in!
9. “I Don’t Wanna Be in Love” Dance Floor Anthem (Good Charlotte) – Metro Station [11-24-08]. An electro-rock rendition of the original classic by Good Charlotte.
10. “Time of Your Life” (Green Day) – Glen Campbell [8-18-08]. Complete with big country strings, Glen Campbell makes a comeback with this rockin’ cover.
11. “Wanna Be Startin’ Something” Remix (Michael Jackson) – Akon with Michael Jackson [1/22/2008]. Akon’s own version of this classic dance anthem holds fast to the familiar “mama say mama sa mama mapoosa” backbeat, blending Akon’s popular hip-hop grooves with Michael Jackson’s classic R&B vibe.
12. “Wonderwall” (Oasis) – Brad Mehldau [3-25-08]. Jazz pianist tackles cover of Oasis classic with instrumental aplomb.
13. “I Can’t Stand the Rain” – Seal [11-11-08]. Along with the rest of the 60’s era-covers packed into his latest album -- entitled SOUL -- this one does soulful justice to the original a la Seal’s brave and beautiful voice.
14. “How Deep is Your Love” (Bee Gees) – The Bird and the Bee [5-27-08] from SEX AND THE CITY SOUNDTRACK. A sweet-as-pie,light and airy female vocal rendering of the disco icon.
15. “Til there was you” – Cassandra Wilson [6-10-08]. With a delicious, smoky alto, this contemporary jazz madam from Jackson, Mississippi, reinvents this classic from the Great American Songbook and gives it new life.
16. “Folsom Prison Blues” (Johnny Cash) – Everlast [9-23-08]. Whitey Ford is the former front-man for House of Pain is the unlikely source for this version of the classic country track.
17. “Look of Love” – Sergio Mendes and Fergie (Dusty Springfield) [6-10-08]. The Brazilian Bossa Nova master teams up with Fergie (highlighted by a cameo by Will.I.am) to churn out an original and groovy version of the classic.
18. “Umbrella” (Rihanna) – Marie Digby [4-8-08]. Original and daring acoustic singer-songwriter approach to this R&B smash hit.
19. “Angel Dream”(Tom Petty) – Glen Campbell [8-18-08]. With a strings medley scooping out the background, country crooner Glen Campbell puts his own spin on Tom Petty’s magical classic.
20. “My Favorite Things” (Sound of Music) – Yo Yo Ma featuring Chris Botti [10-14-08]. Interpretive instrumental featuring Ma’s spectacular cello with a jazz-like take on the beloved original.
21. “The Heart of the Matter” (Don Henley) – IndiaArie [5-27-08] from SEX AND THE CITY SOUNDTRACK. A clean and simple rendition of Don Henley’s classic sails brightly from this R&B star’s rich, soulful voice with inspired pockets by background singers.
22. “Slow” (Kylie Mingoue) – Tricky. [9-2-08]. A downtempo, punky duet version of the pop diva’s dance track.
23. “Lollipop” (Lil Wayne) -- Framing Hanley [1-21-08]. An unexpected hard guitar take on the hip-hop original.
24. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” (U2) – Ba Cissoko [4-1-08]. An original, African take on this rock classic with fore and background singers, bongos and guitars.
25. “Walk like an Egyptian” (The Bangles) – The Puppini Sisters [2-12-08] Delightful a cappella and Bugle-boy-esque cover of a memorable 80’s dance number.
26. “Walkin’ my Baby Back Home” (Dean Martin) – Natalie Cole and Nat King Cole [9-9-08]. An old school classic remade as daughter & daddy duet.
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