Wednesday, March 11, 2009
RollnSmoke Reviews: A GOLDEN AGE
A GOLDEN AGE by Tahmima Anam (Harper Perennial, 2009). This brilliant and highly-acclaimed debut novel evokes the exotic landscape and gritty realities of the war for Bangladeshi Independence from (West) Pakistan in 1971. Exploring the strained divisions across generations and disintegrating family loyalties – Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi – probing the split between Hindus vs. Muslims, the separation between resistance fighter vs. passive citizen, all amidst poverty and cyclones, creates a fascinating political and historical context against which a very central, human story unfolds. The narrative stretches from mundane daily life in occupied Dhaka to the sweltering refugee camps of Calcutta and features the life of a devoted widow who must fight for her children – an adoring son and a militant daughter – and finds herself fulfilling the role of accidental hero. 9/10
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
The Best New Tracks Released in the Past 60 Days
1. “Beggin’” – Madcon [1-13-09]. A previously released R&B track by hip-hop group that perfectly blends pop with rap for prime danceability.
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 sounding club banger.
3. “Jailer” -- Asa [1-27-09]. A smooth and modern fusion of R&B, soul and African jazz from siren out of Nigeria.
4. “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.
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. “So Human” – Lady Sovereign [2009]. A rip on the cult classic alt-rock tune form the 80’s, done by sassy Brit rapper.
7. “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.
8. “Airstream Driver” – Gomez [3-2-09]. A highly-textured alt-rock single singing the praises of the big rig girl driver a la the Brit guitar band from North England.
9. “The Hazards of Love” – The Decemberists [3-24-09]. The title track from the forthcoming album features dramatic vocals with acoustic background for a sweeping “folk opera-like” narrative track.
10. “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.
...THE BEST OF THE REST…
11. “Boom Boom Pow” – Black Eyed Peas [to be released June 9]. The lead single from their forthcoming album is eerily spare, clubby and synthed-R&B featuring Will.i.Am and Fergie vocals in ways you’ve never heard before.
12. “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 fantasy girl, a go-go dancer.
13. “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.
14. “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.
15. “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.
16. “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.”
17. “No Line on the Horizon” – U2 [3-3-09]. The lead track from the newest album from a la The Boys from Ireland is heavy on the arena-sounding guitar and Bono’s bigger-than-life vocals.
18. “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.
19. “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.
20. “From the Hips” – Cursive [3-10-09]. Typical of this indie band’s varying tempos, moods and style, this track swings from lilting opening to rocking meat-in-the-sandwich.
21. “Walking on a Dream” – Empire of the Sun [un-released]. Aussie duo pumps out an upbeat electro-charged pop dance tune.
22. “Blood Bank” – Bon Iver [1-20-09]. Wisconsin troubadour Justin Vernon’s easy vocals and mellow acoustic guitar mark his sophomore solo effort.
23. “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, alive with soulful vocals and lyrics from the Orlando native.
24. “37 Stitches Acoustic Demo” or “Shame” – Drowning Pool [3-3-09]. A kitty-cocktail dose of this alt-metal group’s usual butt-kicking, but a palatable, gritty acoustic rocker nonetheless.
25. “Sugar Lee” – Damon Fowler [1-27-09]. The kind of song that fills up the dance floor and brims with electric blues jams.
26. “The Power of One (Change the World)” – Israel Houghton [3-24-09]. An inspiring contemporary Christian track from this southwest soul singer who’s gone solo from his group New Breed on his forthcoming album.
27. “Unreachable” – John Frusciante [1-20-09]. An almost-eerie, moody psychedelic indie track from Red Hot Chili Pepper rocker.
28. “Heartbroken, in Disrepair” -- Dan Auerbach [2-10-09]. – Big electric bluesey-rocker; a solo effort from Black Keys frontman.
29. “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.
30. “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.
31. “Like a Hobo” – Charlie Winston [leaked in U.S., 2-2009]. British singer-song-writer is breaking through in France with the title track of his new blues-soul-pop album HOBO.
32. “How Your Heart is Wired” – Bell X1 [3-3-09]. Smooth and mellow vocals overlaid on electro-synth backdrop from indie Irish rock quartet.
33. “Bare Bones” – Madeleine Peyroux [3-10-09]. The mellow title track to her cover-free newest album shows off this French-American singer’s rootsy, jazz-influenced adult pop skillz.
34. “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.
35. “No You Girls” – Franz Ferdinand [1-24-09]. A catchy dirty pop track from the post-punk Glasgow quartet.
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 sounding club banger.
3. “Jailer” -- Asa [1-27-09]. A smooth and modern fusion of R&B, soul and African jazz from siren out of Nigeria.
4. “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.
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. “So Human” – Lady Sovereign [2009]. A rip on the cult classic alt-rock tune form the 80’s, done by sassy Brit rapper.
7. “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.
8. “Airstream Driver” – Gomez [3-2-09]. A highly-textured alt-rock single singing the praises of the big rig girl driver a la the Brit guitar band from North England.
9. “The Hazards of Love” – The Decemberists [3-24-09]. The title track from the forthcoming album features dramatic vocals with acoustic background for a sweeping “folk opera-like” narrative track.
10. “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.
...THE BEST OF THE REST…
11. “Boom Boom Pow” – Black Eyed Peas [to be released June 9]. The lead single from their forthcoming album is eerily spare, clubby and synthed-R&B featuring Will.i.Am and Fergie vocals in ways you’ve never heard before.
12. “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 fantasy girl, a go-go dancer.
13. “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.
14. “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.
15. “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.
16. “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.”
17. “No Line on the Horizon” – U2 [3-3-09]. The lead track from the newest album from a la The Boys from Ireland is heavy on the arena-sounding guitar and Bono’s bigger-than-life vocals.
18. “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.
19. “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.
20. “From the Hips” – Cursive [3-10-09]. Typical of this indie band’s varying tempos, moods and style, this track swings from lilting opening to rocking meat-in-the-sandwich.
21. “Walking on a Dream” – Empire of the Sun [un-released]. Aussie duo pumps out an upbeat electro-charged pop dance tune.
22. “Blood Bank” – Bon Iver [1-20-09]. Wisconsin troubadour Justin Vernon’s easy vocals and mellow acoustic guitar mark his sophomore solo effort.
23. “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, alive with soulful vocals and lyrics from the Orlando native.
24. “37 Stitches Acoustic Demo” or “Shame” – Drowning Pool [3-3-09]. A kitty-cocktail dose of this alt-metal group’s usual butt-kicking, but a palatable, gritty acoustic rocker nonetheless.
25. “Sugar Lee” – Damon Fowler [1-27-09]. The kind of song that fills up the dance floor and brims with electric blues jams.
26. “The Power of One (Change the World)” – Israel Houghton [3-24-09]. An inspiring contemporary Christian track from this southwest soul singer who’s gone solo from his group New Breed on his forthcoming album.
27. “Unreachable” – John Frusciante [1-20-09]. An almost-eerie, moody psychedelic indie track from Red Hot Chili Pepper rocker.
28. “Heartbroken, in Disrepair” -- Dan Auerbach [2-10-09]. – Big electric bluesey-rocker; a solo effort from Black Keys frontman.
29. “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.
30. “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.
31. “Like a Hobo” – Charlie Winston [leaked in U.S., 2-2009]. British singer-song-writer is breaking through in France with the title track of his new blues-soul-pop album HOBO.
32. “How Your Heart is Wired” – Bell X1 [3-3-09]. Smooth and mellow vocals overlaid on electro-synth backdrop from indie Irish rock quartet.
33. “Bare Bones” – Madeleine Peyroux [3-10-09]. The mellow title track to her cover-free newest album shows off this French-American singer’s rootsy, jazz-influenced adult pop skillz.
34. “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.
35. “No You Girls” – Franz Ferdinand [1-24-09]. A catchy dirty pop track from the post-punk Glasgow quartet.
Featured New Artists
1. Kid Cudi – “Nite and Day” (single) – Spooky R&B single from Midwestern hip-hopper whose melody you can’t shake once you’ve heard it.
2. Gabriella Cilmi -- “Sanctuary” from LESSONS TO BE LEARNED [1-27-09]. 17-year old siren from Australia takes up a bluesy note in this appealing single track.
3. 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.
4. The Script -- “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved” from THE SCRIPT [11-4-08]. From the best-selling new band of 2008 in the United Kingdom and Ireland, this track, already a smash-hit in a dozen other nations, has an easy pop-vibe.
5. Lykke Li – “Little Bit” from YOUTH NOVELS [8-19-08]. A debut album from Swedish pop sensation includes this minimalist arrangement with her signature pixie voice.
6. 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.
7. Dan Auerbach -- “Heartbroken, in Disrepair” from KEEP IT HID [2-10-09]. – Big electric bluesey-rocker; a solo effort from Black Keys frontman.
8. 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.
9. Bon Iver – “Blood Bank” (single) [1-20-09]. Wisconsin troubadour Justin Vernon’s easy vocals and mellow acoustic guitar mark his sophomore solitary effort.
10. 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.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. Shwayze – “Buzzin” from SHWAYZE [8-18-08]. Shwayze’s debut hip-hop track combines Malibu beach rap with Cisco Adler’s indie-rock groove.
14. 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.
15. 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.
16. 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.
17. 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.
18. 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.
19. 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.
20. 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.
21. Flight of the Conchords – “Business Time” from FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS [4-29-08]. An amusing Barry White-rip on sexual foreplay.
22. 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.
23. 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.
24. Meiko – “Boys with Girlfriends” from MEIKO [2008]. Easy, Light-as-air female vocalist out of Roberta, Georgia.
25. 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.
26. 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. Gabriella Cilmi -- “Sanctuary” from LESSONS TO BE LEARNED [1-27-09]. 17-year old siren from Australia takes up a bluesy note in this appealing single track.
3. 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.
4. The Script -- “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved” from THE SCRIPT [11-4-08]. From the best-selling new band of 2008 in the United Kingdom and Ireland, this track, already a smash-hit in a dozen other nations, has an easy pop-vibe.
5. Lykke Li – “Little Bit” from YOUTH NOVELS [8-19-08]. A debut album from Swedish pop sensation includes this minimalist arrangement with her signature pixie voice.
6. 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.
7. Dan Auerbach -- “Heartbroken, in Disrepair” from KEEP IT HID [2-10-09]. – Big electric bluesey-rocker; a solo effort from Black Keys frontman.
8. 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.
9. Bon Iver – “Blood Bank” (single) [1-20-09]. Wisconsin troubadour Justin Vernon’s easy vocals and mellow acoustic guitar mark his sophomore solitary effort.
10. 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.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. Shwayze – “Buzzin” from SHWAYZE [8-18-08]. Shwayze’s debut hip-hop track combines Malibu beach rap with Cisco Adler’s indie-rock groove.
14. 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.
15. 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.
16. 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.
17. 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.
18. 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.
19. 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.
20. 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.
21. Flight of the Conchords – “Business Time” from FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS [4-29-08]. An amusing Barry White-rip on sexual foreplay.
22. 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.
23. 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.
24. Meiko – “Boys with Girlfriends” from MEIKO [2008]. Easy, Light-as-air female vocalist out of Roberta, Georgia.
25. 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.
26. 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.
Best New Covers of Great Old Songs
1. “Beggin’” – (Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons) Madcon [1-13-09]. An R&B track by hip-hop group that perfectly blends pop with rap for prime danceability.
2. “Give it to Me Right” – (The Zombies) Melanie Fiona [12-23-08]. Her own soulful groove laid over the infamous “Time of the Season Zombie backbeat.
3. “Jai Ho (You Are My Destiny)” – (A.R. Rahman) The Pussycat Dolls feat. Nicole Scheringer [3/2009]. Ditching Bollywood for the Hollywood edition without the Hindi chants and with the cream puff pop lyrics.
4. “Cello Song” – (Nick Drake) -- The Books feat. Jose Gonzalez [2-16-09]. A lovely cover of the soothing original performed by The Books who concoct an original acoustic version featuring Jose Gonzalez’s dreamy vocals for the DARK WAS the NIGHT Red Hot compilation CD which sports an all-star indie line-up of artists and songs.
5. “So Human” – (The Cure) -- Lady Sovereign [2009]. A rip on the cult classic alt-rock tune form the 80’s, done by sassy Brit rapper.
6. “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.
7. “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.
8. “Veronica Sawyer” – (Edna Goldfish) – Reel Big Fish [1-20-09]. An upbeat ska and modern-rock rendition of the pop original.
9. “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.
10. “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.
11. “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.
12. “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.”
13. “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.
14. “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.
15. “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!
16. “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.
17. “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.
18. “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.
19. “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.
20. “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.
21. “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.
22. “Look of Love” – (Dusty Springfield) -- Sergio Mendes and Fergie [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.
23. “Umbrella” (Rihanna) – Marie Digby [4-8-08]. Original and daring acoustic singer-songwriter approach to this R&B smash hit.
24. “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.
25. “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.
26. “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.
27. “Slow” (Kylie Mingoue) – Tricky [9-2-08]. A downtempo, punky duet version of the pop diva’s dance track.
28. “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.
29. “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. “Give it to Me Right” – (The Zombies) Melanie Fiona [12-23-08]. Her own soulful groove laid over the infamous “Time of the Season Zombie backbeat.
3. “Jai Ho (You Are My Destiny)” – (A.R. Rahman) The Pussycat Dolls feat. Nicole Scheringer [3/2009]. Ditching Bollywood for the Hollywood edition without the Hindi chants and with the cream puff pop lyrics.
4. “Cello Song” – (Nick Drake) -- The Books feat. Jose Gonzalez [2-16-09]. A lovely cover of the soothing original performed by The Books who concoct an original acoustic version featuring Jose Gonzalez’s dreamy vocals for the DARK WAS the NIGHT Red Hot compilation CD which sports an all-star indie line-up of artists and songs.
5. “So Human” – (The Cure) -- Lady Sovereign [2009]. A rip on the cult classic alt-rock tune form the 80’s, done by sassy Brit rapper.
6. “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.
7. “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.
8. “Veronica Sawyer” – (Edna Goldfish) – Reel Big Fish [1-20-09]. An upbeat ska and modern-rock rendition of the pop original.
9. “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.
10. “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.
11. “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.
12. “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.”
13. “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.
14. “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.
15. “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!
16. “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.
17. “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.
18. “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.
19. “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.
20. “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.
21. “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.
22. “Look of Love” – (Dusty Springfield) -- Sergio Mendes and Fergie [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.
23. “Umbrella” (Rihanna) – Marie Digby [4-8-08]. Original and daring acoustic singer-songwriter approach to this R&B smash hit.
24. “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.
25. “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.
26. “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.
27. “Slow” (Kylie Mingoue) – Tricky [9-2-08]. A downtempo, punky duet version of the pop diva’s dance track.
28. “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.
29. “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.
Monday, March 2, 2009
RollnSmoke Reviews: SERVICE INCLUDED
Service Included: Four-Star Secrets of an Eavesdropping Waiter by Phoebe Damrosch (Harper, 2008).
This literary debut is an entertaining account of the author’s 18 month stint as a waiter at the newly opened, ultra-swanky Manhattan restaurant called Per Se (sister spot to infamous French Laundry in Napa Valley). Damrosch exercises a precise power of observation, wending it into clear, witty and often humorous prose that most often revolves around food in all its varied combinations, preparations and presentations. Whether discussing her high regard for extravagant tasting as “food porn,” or detailing the secret hierarchies of high-end food service or offering a slew of tips for optimal guest behavior or detailing the eccentricities of celebrity diners, Damrosch obviously takes great pleasure in accounting for all delicious details. Her daily grind as full-time waiter and part-time student works against the subtext of the romance she cultivates with Andre, the bald wine sommelier, who is a “hard person to love.” 9/10
This literary debut is an entertaining account of the author’s 18 month stint as a waiter at the newly opened, ultra-swanky Manhattan restaurant called Per Se (sister spot to infamous French Laundry in Napa Valley). Damrosch exercises a precise power of observation, wending it into clear, witty and often humorous prose that most often revolves around food in all its varied combinations, preparations and presentations. Whether discussing her high regard for extravagant tasting as “food porn,” or detailing the secret hierarchies of high-end food service or offering a slew of tips for optimal guest behavior or detailing the eccentricities of celebrity diners, Damrosch obviously takes great pleasure in accounting for all delicious details. Her daily grind as full-time waiter and part-time student works against the subtext of the romance she cultivates with Andre, the bald wine sommelier, who is a “hard person to love.” 9/10
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