Happy Monday(s)! Welcome to each of you who joined us over this past week! You’ve landed at what was recently described as “the nicest place on the internet.'“
It’s great to have you here.
For those of you who are new, we kick off every week by sharing what we’ve been playing.
The playlist below is some of what I’ve had in heavy rotation:
What caught your ear this week? Find anything good while crate digging? Made a mixtape lately? Are there any upcoming releases or shows you’re excited about?
So whatcha got? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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Fuzz - Fuzz + II + III + Levitation Sessions. Ty Segall and friends make energetic fuzzed out rock and roll.
Enon - High Society + Hocus Pocus + Believo. I learned of Enon right before Lost Marbles and Exploded Evidence dropped in 2005. One of my very favorite bands. Poppy alt rock that still sounds great 20 years later.
Blonde Redhead - Melody of Certain Damaged Lemons + a shuffle through their discography. Enon and Blonde Redhead live next to each other in my head.
Tom Yorke solo everything. Tom Yorke, Atoms for Peace, sigh…The Smile.
David Gilmour - On An Island. Found via a different Substack. Turned into an excellent accompaniment to some late afternoon reading.
Led Zeppelin - the whole damned discography. This led to visiting the ‘70’s Black Sabbath, Hendrix, The Doors, and more.
Ty Segall - Three Bells + Harmonizer and more. I ❤️ Ty, he makes some fun ear yum-yums.
Have you heard the underdubbed Band on the Run? With the exception of a few tracks where the full versions are better, it's replaced the original release as my go-to.
I assume this is what you are listening to in general because that would be some intense listening sessions if it was for the past week. Some good cuts and some that I will have to give a listen to because I don't know them.
I listened to most of this on purpose. Grateful to have a job where I can listen to music when not actively in meetings (I also sleep 3-4 hours less than my better half; primo listening time in the wee hours of most mornings). This probably represents less than 50% of what I gave a spin last week.
Most excellent playlist, Kevin. Haven't heard "Yellow Pills" in ages. A classic. Ditto for "Waiting for the UFOS." (I'm still waiting!)
Friday afternoon I went crate diving at my local record store and found two classic vinyl albums from the '70s. Both in near mint condition, both at a very fair price.
Electric Light Orchestra - Eldorado. One of my favorite concept albums and my 2nd favorite ELO album.
Roger Daltrey - One of the Boys. Worth every penny of the $5.99 just for his extraordinary cover of Andy Pratt's "Avenging Annie." And if you've not hear the original, well, here's a link to it.
Just found this under the link. The following article was written by the author, Andy Pratt, Sept 6, 2006:
I wrote "Avenging Annie" in the summer of 1972 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, at my mother's 1926 Steinway B Baby Grand piano. I had broken up with my first wife[.] I was stoned on marijuana. On my turntable was the The Byrds' Sweetheart of the Rodeo, in particular the Woody Guthrie song "Pretty Boy Floyd." You can clearly hear that the first part of "Avenging Annie" is an altered version of "Pretty Boy Floyd." I shut off the record and began playing "Pretty Boy Floyd." I was going into a creative trance, and I altered Woody's words, then out came a Bach-like piano riff which I liked, so I began singing to it in falsetto, taking the part of a woman I called Avenging Annie. A whole story came out, which was a fantasy version of my relationship with [my ex-wife], combined with the outlaw theme of the American West. I worked on the song for a few weeks and played for other people who liked it. I made a demo with Rick Shlosser and Bill Riseman, which became a hit at Brown University Radio WBRU. This new fame led to me being whisked away by John Nagy of Earth Opera, Clive Davis of Columbia Records, and Nat Weiss of The Beatles, being wined and dined in New York City and given star treatment at the famous Black Rock on 6th Avenue. Once recorded and released on Columbia, "Avenging Annie" took on a life of its own, which has never really stopped. My version was given extensive radio play, became a number one single in New Orleans and Providence, and reached about number eighty-five in the national charts. I did a successful tour of the East Coast, where Jimmy Buffet opened for me at Max's Kansas City, an Andy Pratt show was broadcast from Boston's Jazz Workshop over WBCN radio, and many other wonderful things happened. The Andy Pratt record, with "Avenging Annie" is still available on various web sites, including www.amazon.com.
Roger Daltrey covered "Avenging Annie" in 1974, and his version appeared first on his One of the Boys album as well as other collections he released. My opinion of his version is that he was afraid to play the role of a woman in the song, and his band did not play the syncopations that we played in our version. I prefer my version. Still, I am grateful for his recognition of the song, and the added exposure that he helped me to gain.
Carmenica Diaz wrote a book called "Avenging Annie" and credits the song as the book's inspiration, for which I thank her.
That's an amazing story by Andy, Dusty! Thanks for including. I've always wondered why Andy was such a "one-hit-wonder," a name I hate, but nothing is really remembered by him, on that album, or beyond! For a couple years, now, I've had an article on "Avenging Annie" waiting to be written in my Q....we'll see if I ever get to it! Plus, I've never heard Daltrey's cover. Now, it makes me want to hunt for other covers!
But, I'll add all this (and your name and 'Stack link) as a credit/inspiration, should I ever get to that particular "Audio Autopsy"! Thanks, Dusty!
......and Tune Tags......don't forget Tune Tags!!😁If you're game to try one, Dusty, lemme know. Feel free to DM me; they look like this, if you're not familiar: https://bradkyle.substack.com/t/tune-tag
I haven't forgotten that I'm overdue on sending an opener for Round 2. Opening Day is looming; maybe the brewers will send me to an early existential crisis. lol.
Our massive Tune Tag Amalgamator XL-5000, downstairs, will happily await your initial entry. Then, and only then, will Brutus (whom we've assigned to flip the switch) will get it all runnin' 'n' hummin'!
You'll be happy to know that he just picked up a part-time job, moonlighting as Brutus the Brewer and sliding along a Slip'n'Slide when a Brewer hits a homer at home........both times!😁⚾
Listened to World Party discography & the first three Waterboys albums. Karl was the nicest guy - I was fortunate to have spent time with him and seen WP multiple times. He was one of the best of us.
Worked in a hostel in Kings Cross in late 90's and met him in a cafe we both frequented. Got to chatting about music, politics, philosophy... life and ended up connecting. Was invited to studio (I have audio eng bkgrd). Blah, blah - kept in touch over the years. Absolutely one of the most genuine, talented people I have ever had the good fortune to encounter.
First, a Joe Henderson reissue on the Craft Records 'Jazz Dispensary' label called Power to the People. This is a quartet from 1969 featuring Ron Carter and Herbie Hancock. This is solidly in my wheelhouse, and if I end up enjoying it (I will) I'll trade the reissue in toward the purchase of an OG copy. Why? Because forking out significantly more money for a 50+ year old piece of wax which likely sounds worse than my boutique reissue results in a sense of pride. It simply feels better to spin an original. I have no one to brag to or share this feeling with, it all takes place within my own head (and in my checking account). This hobby we've chosen is a sickness and I can't help but love it.
Second, a new release that I didn't know was happening, but which caused me to hit the buy button with wild abandon. I'm talking about John Lurie and the two LP soundtrack to the recent HBO show Painting with John. I'm not going to extol the virtues of the recently cancelled show which details his newfound virtuosic passion for watercolors (you should watch it) or linger on the man's storied career (The Lounge Lizards was merely the opening act). Instead I want to point out that I see this record as a triumph of the human spirit. John has suffered from a particularly bad case of Lyme Disease since 2000 and the pandemic affected him deeply. So to see him back in a NYC studio working in person with other musicians again, making the music which apparently fills this album, in what turned out to be this series' penultimate episode was incredible satisfying. I'm happy that this is getting a release and I hope that HBO licenses the three seasons of the show to Criterion for a box set that will sit on my shelf next to Criterion's release of the similarly excellent early 90s show Fishing with John.
I've been digging into the Painting With John soundtrack as well. What a polymath! This reminds me of the hilarious video a guy did for "I Don't Have A Cow" from his Marvin Pontiac record.
Well this journey begins in 8th grade, circa 1987, and continues into last week when I picked up the Violent Femmes 40th anniversary Deluxe reissue of their first LP. I resisted for a whole week or so after its release, but finally caved. Such a formative album for so many of us. The deluxe has live and demo tracks. Led me to re-listening to a lot of their catalog, including renewed appreciation for their latest two releases.
So, today, I’m 13 again and full of angst and anxiety. Thanks for reading. Have a great week.
That was their tour from last year! Friends of mine went to Chicago to see them - but I can't really do overnights (it's a 3-1/2 hour drive from the Quad Cities). I'm so happy they are playing close enough for an up and back show!
I'd be interested to hear what you think of it. River of Dreams and Nylon Curtain are, IMO, his best albums (and I have a soft spot for Storm Front, because that was where I discovered him).
We share World Party and Fine Young Cannibals this week. Those both found time in my soul. Kacey Musgraves. I am blown away by 'Deeper Well'. It is hard for me to describe this album, and I know this comparison falls short, but 'Deeper Well' is to Kacey what 'Blood On The Tracks' is to Dylan. The Messthetics and James Brandon Lewis came out this past Friday and is really, really good. I am enjoying Black Crowes 'Happiness Bastards'. Also, I took a spin back to The HIves, 'Veni Vidi Vicious'.
Happy Monday(s)! Been reconnecting a lot with my Argentinian roots. Currently listening to this, which is arguably the anthem of Argentine rock/pop (early 80s stuff, and importantly, a symbol of the return to democracy in the country after the violent dictatorship of the late 70s): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNZ6Qd58ixI
This record got a big shout-out on Sound Opinions that is much deserved. If you want innovative beatmaking and unbelievable wordplay and range, this one from Heems (one of the guys behind Das Racist) is an absolute must-listen. Almost every line of every song has a gem in it. https://heems.bandcamp.com/album/lafandar
Notably, there's some instrumental Nirvana stuff by Jingle Punks Hipster Orchestra, "Escape from New York" by Municipal Waste, and end titles from Fargo and Star Trek: First Contact. It's shaping up!
The new album by James Clarke Five was just released - James was in the cult Liverpool band The Cherry Boys who I was a big fan of - their song Kardomah Cafe is an all time favorite ( their drummer was Chris Sharrock and they have links to The La's, Wild Swans, World Party, The Icicle Works, Exhibit B and many others)
Such a fun feature! some discoveries for my radio show this week (airing Thursday, March 21 on www.wpkn.org 10 am - noon) --- Indie pop artist from Nashville Victoria Bigelow, Dylann Taylor (debut album this month) with song Her and the Trees, Estonian singer and musician Mari Kalkun, Iron and Wine ft. Fiona Apple with All in Good Time, Eels has an album coming out June 7 - released single "Time" from EELS TIME!
“Low Rider” is my latest earworm (essay coming soon) and it led me to pull out my vinyl copy of the album which is one of the greats. Also, rewatched Cheech and Chong’s Up in Smoke and it still makes me cackle wildly.
Squeezing Up Sparts is such a classic. Always a good nominee for those conversations about "albums with no filler."
Last week was about:
- Jay Bennett-era Wilco, inspired by watching the "Where Are You, Jay Bennett" documentary, which is very good and available for free on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FKb7Ii1Fn4
- World Party. RIP, Karl. 💔
- The new ones from Norah Jones and Hurray For The Riff Raff, continuing in heavy rotation here.
I just heard Save Me by Jelly Roll. I know it's been out for awhile but I just heard it. Beautiful. Also Theo Von plays Shine by Bishop Gunn before his podcasts and it's great. Sabrinalabow.substack.com
Blackberry Smoke's catalog in memory of my friend and the band's drummer, Britt Turner, that passed away after battling glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer.
Two excellent albums I was turned on to through The Honest Broker Substack by @tedgioia: Nordic Stew by Timo Lassy & Jukka Eskola and Fabiano do Nascimento & Sam Gendel's, The Room.
Have been listening to Mary Lou Williams, who a friend recommended. I've been familiarizing myself with jazz, but the canon is heavy on the dudes, so I've been trying to listen a little more widely. (And am happy for recs if folks have suggestions of women in jazz I might not have heard.) Have complete Asch recordings and an interesting record she made with a composition for each zodiac sign.
MOTO, or Masters of the Obvious, who are a New Orleans lo-fi punk band that I think has relocated God forbid to New Hampshire. They have a song called "Crystallize My Penis." What more do you need to know.
They're a little heavier than I usually like, but I have been digging on Wednesday. Their song "Quarry" is super catchy and really nice.
Cracking playlist as always. Big on the bass and the guitar this week!
I've been listening to plenty this week but can I recommend Bag of Cans? If you like songs about washing machines, hangover cures and predatory milk men, check them out!
After non stop Prefab Sprout for days on end……I’m back on a Hefner/Darren Hayman kick!! Any other fans out there? This guy can write any song in any style and has the rare gift of writing lyrics that are just amazing. Sorry I’ll try and stop, this guy is like the greatest thing since Paul McCartney. Yeah I said that, haha
Wanted to pick up a Voodoo Glow Skulls album at 2nd ave records. I just could not figure out how to keep it safe on the plane ride home. So, that is what I spent the weened listening too.
I think the bass player wears armor on stage.....lol
I really need to know who the band was that you saw.
It's been driving me bonkers! I tried to look up some old shows, but no luck. Texted a couple of people, but no-go there, either. I know they were local, and it was an all-woman lineup. After that, I dunno. I'm pretty sure Hitting Birth was on the same bill.
It was an all female band, that's good to know because I played bass in a band and wore armor, I was going to be really embarrassed if it was me.....lol
I really enjoyed the playlist this week, Kevin. Thank you!
This week I have been listening a lot to Engines of Honey by Bull and Jubilee by Japanese Breakfast, both of which I am a little obsessed with at the moment.
The new Kid Kapichi album There Goes the Neighbourhood has just been released. First impressions are pretty positive and I’m off to an instore tomorrow which will probably reinforce that opinion.
Always great to see what you and everyone else is spinning, Kevin. I had one of those moments today where Spotify seemed to read my mind and serve me up an album I'd not heard before, but which 100% hit the spot - Hermanos Gutierrez 'El Bueno Y El Malo'. Absolutely sublime, languid and atmospheric Latin/western-style guitar. Looked it up online, and it seems Dan Auerbach produced it, saying "Some music sounds like tall, jagged buildings. This sounds like wide-open spaces in the outdoors." I listened, and was transported!
Good Afternoon! I'm glad to return to participating in this discussion. Right now I really love the new single from The Marias called "Run Your Mouth" Their upcoming album has a water theme that reminds me of tech commercials/print ads from the early 2000s. And it makes me happier that multiple other people have seen that connection too. I also listened to the new Justin Timberlake album and my favorites are "Drown" "My Favorite Drug" "Flame" and "Alone"
Seattle is experiencing our annual fake spring weather, so I’ve been enjoying Amos Lee’s Mission Bell album. It’s perfectly lazy and sauntering for a beautiful, warm, sunny week!
I don't usually listen to songs over and over, but I haven't been able to stop listening to the new song, Glitching Prisms by Night Verses feat. Brandon Boyd. Just, wow, every time.
Thank you! I'm glad you liked it. Some greats from you as well! TVOTR is never too far from any of my lists.
Let’s go streaking!
Fuzz - Fuzz + II + III + Levitation Sessions. Ty Segall and friends make energetic fuzzed out rock and roll.
Enon - High Society + Hocus Pocus + Believo. I learned of Enon right before Lost Marbles and Exploded Evidence dropped in 2005. One of my very favorite bands. Poppy alt rock that still sounds great 20 years later.
Blonde Redhead - Melody of Certain Damaged Lemons + a shuffle through their discography. Enon and Blonde Redhead live next to each other in my head.
Tom Yorke solo everything. Tom Yorke, Atoms for Peace, sigh…The Smile.
David Gilmour - On An Island. Found via a different Substack. Turned into an excellent accompaniment to some late afternoon reading.
Led Zeppelin - the whole damned discography. This led to visiting the ‘70’s Black Sabbath, Hendrix, The Doors, and more.
Ty Segall - Three Bells + Harmonizer and more. I ❤️ Ty, he makes some fun ear yum-yums.
One album at a time:
Paul McCartney & Wings - Band on the Run. Thanks to Matt Fish, his fault this happened and I didn’t hate it as much as I remembered: https://open.substack.com/pub/dailymusic/p/jet-by-paul-mccartney-and-wings?r=ax9p1&utm_medium=ios
Idles - Tangk. Only once this week. Call it a tolerance break.
Madvillain - Madvillainy. Classic record, been a long time. https://open.substack.com/pub/dailymusic/p/madvillany-by-madvillain?r=ax9p1&utm_medium=ios
Iggy Pop - Post Pop Depression.
New to me:
Loving - Loving + Any Light.
Have you heard the underdubbed Band on the Run? With the exception of a few tracks where the full versions are better, it's replaced the original release as my go-to.
Annnd added to the queue. Thanks for the recommendations!
I will take every opportunity to spread the Gospel of Macca. ;-)
The Smiles new album is an early contender for my top 10 albums of 2024.
Glad to see another Ty Segall fan here. Seeing him in may and I can’t wait.
Enjoy seeing Ty!
Ty Segall is awesome. Should be a killer show!
I assume this is what you are listening to in general because that would be some intense listening sessions if it was for the past week. Some good cuts and some that I will have to give a listen to because I don't know them.
I listened to most of this on purpose. Grateful to have a job where I can listen to music when not actively in meetings (I also sleep 3-4 hours less than my better half; primo listening time in the wee hours of most mornings). This probably represents less than 50% of what I gave a spin last week.
4 AM is prime listening time!
I am retired and listen to music a lot but you got me beat man. I wish you happy listening.
Haha. "Jet" is one of my fave solo McCartney songs. Enon is a new one for me; I'll check 'em out!
Most excellent playlist, Kevin. Haven't heard "Yellow Pills" in ages. A classic. Ditto for "Waiting for the UFOS." (I'm still waiting!)
Friday afternoon I went crate diving at my local record store and found two classic vinyl albums from the '70s. Both in near mint condition, both at a very fair price.
Electric Light Orchestra - Eldorado. One of my favorite concept albums and my 2nd favorite ELO album.
Roger Daltrey - One of the Boys. Worth every penny of the $5.99 just for his extraordinary cover of Andy Pratt's "Avenging Annie." And if you've not hear the original, well, here's a link to it.
https://youtu.be/__7OrOxoQxI?si=3cuV7n3vJatqxsNi
Just found this under the link. The following article was written by the author, Andy Pratt, Sept 6, 2006:
I wrote "Avenging Annie" in the summer of 1972 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, at my mother's 1926 Steinway B Baby Grand piano. I had broken up with my first wife[.] I was stoned on marijuana. On my turntable was the The Byrds' Sweetheart of the Rodeo, in particular the Woody Guthrie song "Pretty Boy Floyd." You can clearly hear that the first part of "Avenging Annie" is an altered version of "Pretty Boy Floyd." I shut off the record and began playing "Pretty Boy Floyd." I was going into a creative trance, and I altered Woody's words, then out came a Bach-like piano riff which I liked, so I began singing to it in falsetto, taking the part of a woman I called Avenging Annie. A whole story came out, which was a fantasy version of my relationship with [my ex-wife], combined with the outlaw theme of the American West. I worked on the song for a few weeks and played for other people who liked it. I made a demo with Rick Shlosser and Bill Riseman, which became a hit at Brown University Radio WBRU. This new fame led to me being whisked away by John Nagy of Earth Opera, Clive Davis of Columbia Records, and Nat Weiss of The Beatles, being wined and dined in New York City and given star treatment at the famous Black Rock on 6th Avenue. Once recorded and released on Columbia, "Avenging Annie" took on a life of its own, which has never really stopped. My version was given extensive radio play, became a number one single in New Orleans and Providence, and reached about number eighty-five in the national charts. I did a successful tour of the East Coast, where Jimmy Buffet opened for me at Max's Kansas City, an Andy Pratt show was broadcast from Boston's Jazz Workshop over WBCN radio, and many other wonderful things happened. The Andy Pratt record, with "Avenging Annie" is still available on various web sites, including www.amazon.com.
Roger Daltrey covered "Avenging Annie" in 1974, and his version appeared first on his One of the Boys album as well as other collections he released. My opinion of his version is that he was afraid to play the role of a woman in the song, and his band did not play the syncopations that we played in our version. I prefer my version. Still, I am grateful for his recognition of the song, and the added exposure that he helped me to gain.
Carmenica Diaz wrote a book called "Avenging Annie" and credits the song as the book's inspiration, for which I thank her.
That's an amazing story by Andy, Dusty! Thanks for including. I've always wondered why Andy was such a "one-hit-wonder," a name I hate, but nothing is really remembered by him, on that album, or beyond! For a couple years, now, I've had an article on "Avenging Annie" waiting to be written in my Q....we'll see if I ever get to it! Plus, I've never heard Daltrey's cover. Now, it makes me want to hunt for other covers!
But, I'll add all this (and your name and 'Stack link) as a credit/inspiration, should I ever get to that particular "Audio Autopsy"! Thanks, Dusty!
This is why I love SubStack. We get to share with each other, inspire each other, and enjoy the culture together.
......and Tune Tags......don't forget Tune Tags!!😁If you're game to try one, Dusty, lemme know. Feel free to DM me; they look like this, if you're not familiar: https://bradkyle.substack.com/t/tune-tag
Thanks again, and hope to see ya soon!
I haven't forgotten that I'm overdue on sending an opener for Round 2. Opening Day is looming; maybe the brewers will send me to an early existential crisis. lol.
Our massive Tune Tag Amalgamator XL-5000, downstairs, will happily await your initial entry. Then, and only then, will Brutus (whom we've assigned to flip the switch) will get it all runnin' 'n' hummin'!
You'll be happy to know that he just picked up a part-time job, moonlighting as Brutus the Brewer and sliding along a Slip'n'Slide when a Brewer hits a homer at home........both times!😁⚾
Truly this platform's superpower!
Thank you! I'm still waiting too... :)
Great finds, btw!
Listened to World Party discography & the first three Waterboys albums. Karl was the nicest guy - I was fortunate to have spent time with him and seen WP multiple times. He was one of the best of us.
PS 20/20! Nice one Kevin
An amazing talent, only saw him once with The Waterboys but never had a chance to see World Party - gone too young 😢
Ditto to this but not enough time to play the entire discography so far. RIP Karl.
Very cool that you spent time with him. Love The Waterboys and World Party.
Thank you! Love that you got to meet him & spend some time together. Would love to hear more about it!
Worked in a hostel in Kings Cross in late 90's and met him in a cafe we both frequented. Got to chatting about music, politics, philosophy... life and ended up connecting. Was invited to studio (I have audio eng bkgrd). Blah, blah - kept in touch over the years. Absolutely one of the most genuine, talented people I have ever had the good fortune to encounter.
Harleys in Hawaii - Katy Perry (I think it's her best song to date) 💙
Nice! I'm not sure I know that one; I'll cue it up here shortly.
Bruise Control
Just played 'No More.' Was exactly what I needed!
benches have been high on my playlists this week! Loving their new single, Naive. The drums are 💥
Thanks for the rec! I'm on it!
Ordered two albums on the Internet yesterday.
First, a Joe Henderson reissue on the Craft Records 'Jazz Dispensary' label called Power to the People. This is a quartet from 1969 featuring Ron Carter and Herbie Hancock. This is solidly in my wheelhouse, and if I end up enjoying it (I will) I'll trade the reissue in toward the purchase of an OG copy. Why? Because forking out significantly more money for a 50+ year old piece of wax which likely sounds worse than my boutique reissue results in a sense of pride. It simply feels better to spin an original. I have no one to brag to or share this feeling with, it all takes place within my own head (and in my checking account). This hobby we've chosen is a sickness and I can't help but love it.
Second, a new release that I didn't know was happening, but which caused me to hit the buy button with wild abandon. I'm talking about John Lurie and the two LP soundtrack to the recent HBO show Painting with John. I'm not going to extol the virtues of the recently cancelled show which details his newfound virtuosic passion for watercolors (you should watch it) or linger on the man's storied career (The Lounge Lizards was merely the opening act). Instead I want to point out that I see this record as a triumph of the human spirit. John has suffered from a particularly bad case of Lyme Disease since 2000 and the pandemic affected him deeply. So to see him back in a NYC studio working in person with other musicians again, making the music which apparently fills this album, in what turned out to be this series' penultimate episode was incredible satisfying. I'm happy that this is getting a release and I hope that HBO licenses the three seasons of the show to Criterion for a box set that will sit on my shelf next to Criterion's release of the similarly excellent early 90s show Fishing with John.
Have a good week, everyone.
I've been digging into the Painting With John soundtrack as well. What a polymath! This reminds me of the hilarious video a guy did for "I Don't Have A Cow" from his Marvin Pontiac record.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0YD0hL4XA4
I missed news of this Henderson reissue. Another great release by Craft. There’s a (glowing) review today in Pitchfork.
Right on! FWIW, this is a great place to brag/share those feelings. If nothing else, you know you'll be in good company. :)
Well this journey begins in 8th grade, circa 1987, and continues into last week when I picked up the Violent Femmes 40th anniversary Deluxe reissue of their first LP. I resisted for a whole week or so after its release, but finally caved. Such a formative album for so many of us. The deluxe has live and demo tracks. Led me to re-listening to a lot of their catalog, including renewed appreciation for their latest two releases.
So, today, I’m 13 again and full of angst and anxiety. Thanks for reading. Have a great week.
I’ve been listening to them this week too! Just got tickets to see them in Peoria, IL and totally stoked!
Nice. I’m jealous. I heard they are playing that first LP in its entirety.
That was their tour from last year! Friends of mine went to Chicago to see them - but I can't really do overnights (it's a 3-1/2 hour drive from the Quad Cities). I'm so happy they are playing close enough for an up and back show!
Okay. Thanks for helping me NOT spread misinformation. Take care.
Hahaha Sorry! I wish it was this tour! I was sad to have missed it last year! This year their second release turns 40!
Guess what?? Just confirmed that this tour they WILL be playing their FIRST TWO albums in their entirety!! So, self titled and Hallowed Ground!
Wow. That sounds great.
Right on!
I'm right behind you as far as caving goes!
Nylon Curtain and River of Dreams, because your piece reminded me how much I love both of those albums.
And still obsessed with Cohen's Live in London.
I'm happy I could help send you down memory lane! :)
It's been a while since I listened to River of Dreams; I should change that ASAP.
I'd be interested to hear what you think of it. River of Dreams and Nylon Curtain are, IMO, his best albums (and I have a soft spot for Storm Front, because that was where I discovered him).
The Animals On Tour!
Nice!
I’m gonna go wild and listen to some drone ambient today. B4+3 by zakè.
We share World Party and Fine Young Cannibals this week. Those both found time in my soul. Kacey Musgraves. I am blown away by 'Deeper Well'. It is hard for me to describe this album, and I know this comparison falls short, but 'Deeper Well' is to Kacey what 'Blood On The Tracks' is to Dylan. The Messthetics and James Brandon Lewis came out this past Friday and is really, really good. I am enjoying Black Crowes 'Happiness Bastards'. Also, I took a spin back to The HIves, 'Veni Vidi Vicious'.
Messthetics & James Brandon Lewis are currently on tour, promoting the album
I listened to Kacey's new one this week. Not the best pick for 4:30 AM on a Sunday morning, but man, is it great!
Happy Monday(s)! Been reconnecting a lot with my Argentinian roots. Currently listening to this, which is arguably the anthem of Argentine rock/pop (early 80s stuff, and importantly, a symbol of the return to democracy in the country after the violent dictatorship of the late 70s): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNZ6Qd58ixI
Thanks for the rec! Adding it to the list!
This record got a big shout-out on Sound Opinions that is much deserved. If you want innovative beatmaking and unbelievable wordplay and range, this one from Heems (one of the guys behind Das Racist) is an absolute must-listen. Almost every line of every song has a gem in it. https://heems.bandcamp.com/album/lafandar
And when I need guitars, I find myself going back to this EP from Oakland band Sucker over and over again -- https://s-u-c-k-e-r.bandcamp.com/album/seein-god
I found some more instrumentals to add to my playlist since the last time we visited it:
https://www.pandora.com/playlist/PL:144865057153483011:74638688
Notably, there's some instrumental Nirvana stuff by Jingle Punks Hipster Orchestra, "Escape from New York" by Municipal Waste, and end titles from Fargo and Star Trek: First Contact. It's shaping up!
on a trip to D.C. i stopped by Byrdland Records and bought:
Refried Ectoplams Vol. 2 by Stereolab
Magnolia Electric Co. by Songs: Ohia
also bought a digital copy of Burning Desire by MIKE
and been relistening to Just Got Back From The Discomfort, We’re Alright by Brave Little Abacus
also lots of Afrobeat, Specifically Verckys, Oluko Imo, and some comps by Analog Africa
Sounds like successful trip!
it was! 😂
The new album by James Clarke Five was just released - James was in the cult Liverpool band The Cherry Boys who I was a big fan of - their song Kardomah Cafe is an all time favorite ( their drummer was Chris Sharrock and they have links to The La's, Wild Swans, World Party, The Icicle Works, Exhibit B and many others)
Sorry here is the link
https://jamesclarkefive.bandcamp.com/album/zoom-and-the-gadflies
Thank you, Wally!
Mustard (and their human intern) are currently listening to:
https://materiacollective.bandcamp.com/album/stardew-valley-piano-collections - currently hooked on this game and love the soundtrack. This album features beautiful piano renditions of the soundtrack.
https://audreyno.bandcamp.com/album/somewhere-you-can-see-me - based out of South Korea Audrey No's debut EP is a record that sticks with you.
https://cheekface.bandcamp.com/album/its-sorted - Cheekface is America's local band and for good reason. Their newest album, much like their previous work, is an absolute delight.
Sounds like Mustard (and their intern) have been listening to some great sounds!
Such a fun feature! some discoveries for my radio show this week (airing Thursday, March 21 on www.wpkn.org 10 am - noon) --- Indie pop artist from Nashville Victoria Bigelow, Dylann Taylor (debut album this month) with song Her and the Trees, Estonian singer and musician Mari Kalkun, Iron and Wine ft. Fiona Apple with All in Good Time, Eels has an album coming out June 7 - released single "Time" from EELS TIME!
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention this fantastic record that just came out today!
https://inthesetrees.bandcamp.com/album/the-quiver
War - Why Can’t We Be Friends? Album.
“Low Rider” is my latest earworm (essay coming soon) and it led me to pull out my vinyl copy of the album which is one of the greats. Also, rewatched Cheech and Chong’s Up in Smoke and it still makes me cackle wildly.
That movie will never not make me laugh!
I do a Top Ten of all the recent songs I've been listening to each week! Here is my latest: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/a-current-10/pl.u-gxblgdGI58pPLJ
Thanks for the link! For anyone scrolling the comments, Dan was the latest to play Tune Tag with Brad Kyle. You can check it out here:
https://open.substack.com/pub/bradkyle/p/tune-tag-32-with-dan-pal-of-palcinema?r=3cbf2&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Squeezing Up Sparts is such a classic. Always a good nominee for those conversations about "albums with no filler."
Last week was about:
- Jay Bennett-era Wilco, inspired by watching the "Where Are You, Jay Bennett" documentary, which is very good and available for free on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FKb7Ii1Fn4
- World Party. RIP, Karl. 💔
- The new ones from Norah Jones and Hurray For The Riff Raff, continuing in heavy rotation here.
Have a great week, everyone!
Howling Wind & Heat Treatment even better, for my money.
I love 'Heat Treatment.'
One of these days, I'll take on writing up/about 'Squeezing Out Sparks.' Definitely a no filler album. I'll have to give the new Norah Jones a Spin!
I just heard Save Me by Jelly Roll. I know it's been out for awhile but I just heard it. Beautiful. Also Theo Von plays Shine by Bishop Gunn before his podcasts and it's great. Sabrinalabow.substack.com
Blackberry Smoke's catalog in memory of my friend and the band's drummer, Britt Turner, that passed away after battling glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer.
Two excellent albums I was turned on to through The Honest Broker Substack by @tedgioia: Nordic Stew by Timo Lassy & Jukka Eskola and Fabiano do Nascimento & Sam Gendel's, The Room.
Just got THE ROOM, and one of Fabiano’s solo albums from Bandcamp, nice stuff.
Shelly Manne Live at the Black Hawk, This is Pop - 2 CD set of Australian garage & punk rock, Lime Spiders THE CAVE COMES ALIVE.
Have been listening to Mary Lou Williams, who a friend recommended. I've been familiarizing myself with jazz, but the canon is heavy on the dudes, so I've been trying to listen a little more widely. (And am happy for recs if folks have suggestions of women in jazz I might not have heard.) Have complete Asch recordings and an interesting record she made with a composition for each zodiac sign.
MOTO, or Masters of the Obvious, who are a New Orleans lo-fi punk band that I think has relocated God forbid to New Hampshire. They have a song called "Crystallize My Penis." What more do you need to know.
They're a little heavier than I usually like, but I have been digging on Wednesday. Their song "Quarry" is super catchy and really nice.
Lol. What more indeed!
Today’s discovery, courtesy of @thenewcue: John Bramwell ‘The Light Fantastic’. (Bramwell was previously in I Am Kloot).
Also been listening to plenty of Joe Walsh and James Gang for my post going out later.
Always a good time for James Gang! Looking forward to reading your write up!
Liking the new Dehd songs.
Cracking playlist as always. Big on the bass and the guitar this week!
I've been listening to plenty this week but can I recommend Bag of Cans? If you like songs about washing machines, hangover cures and predatory milk men, check them out!
You can recommend anything you like! You've definitely got my curiosity piqued with that description.
So many great ones in this post!!
After non stop Prefab Sprout for days on end……I’m back on a Hefner/Darren Hayman kick!! Any other fans out there? This guy can write any song in any style and has the rare gift of writing lyrics that are just amazing. Sorry I’ll try and stop, this guy is like the greatest thing since Paul McCartney. Yeah I said that, haha
Thank you, Nat! Darren Hayman's new to me, but Prefab Sprout is not. I'm a big fan.
Wanted to pick up a Voodoo Glow Skulls album at 2nd ave records. I just could not figure out how to keep it safe on the plane ride home. So, that is what I spent the weened listening too.
I think the bass player wears armor on stage.....lol
I really need to know who the band was that you saw.
It's been driving me bonkers! I tried to look up some old shows, but no luck. Texted a couple of people, but no-go there, either. I know they were local, and it was an all-woman lineup. After that, I dunno. I'm pretty sure Hitting Birth was on the same bill.
It was an all female band, that's good to know because I played bass in a band and wore armor, I was going to be really embarrassed if it was me.....lol
Like a full suit?
No, I was just joking. I have absolutely no musical talent. 🤣🤣
😂😂😂
I really enjoyed the playlist this week, Kevin. Thank you!
This week I have been listening a lot to Engines of Honey by Bull and Jubilee by Japanese Breakfast, both of which I am a little obsessed with at the moment.
The new Kid Kapichi album There Goes the Neighbourhood has just been released. First impressions are pretty positive and I’m off to an instore tomorrow which will probably reinforce that opinion.
I'm happy you enjoyed it! Jubilee is an awesome record. Hope the instore is (or was) fun! Would love to hear about it afterward.
Been on a Run DMC bender today. They’re somehow still underrated 🔥🤯
YES!
Love seeing a track from Freak City Soundtrack leading off the playlist this week.
I've been digging the album from Jonathan Peyton, Nothing Here's the Same.
I finally listened to the new Sheer Mag, Playing Favorites, and wished I'd started a couple weeks ago.
Also, Lost in the Dream by The War on Drugs is 10 today, so that's on right now and will probably be in the rotation for a bit.
I read this really cool write up of the record, and it sent me down a Material Issue rabbit hole.
Maybe you saw it? :)
https://open.substack.com/pub/shooflypie/p/albums-i-love-freak-city-soundtrack?r=3cbf2&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Hmm, seems suspect.
Been on a vibey soul phase this week.
“Doutones”—Kenny G
“It’s Only Us”—Monophonics
“Thee Sacred Souls”—Thee Sacred Souls
“Texas Sun”—Khurangbin
“Swimming”—Mac Miller
“What Now”—Brittney Howard (can’t stop spinning this one)
Smoooooooth.
A friend of mine tossed up "Keep On Smilin'"Smiling, from the 2nd-level Southern Rock band Wet Willie, on her ig story the other day.
So I had to go listen to a bunch more Wet Willie again, particularly live (they were a kickass live band in the 70s).
https://youtu.be/vUeXW7LeAig?si=e9ksCxieP8Dem1qS
Went crate digging last week and managed to find a few gems in the Psychedelic rock genre.
1. Circus Maximus
2. Clear Light
3. Blues Magoos
Nice finds!
Always great to see what you and everyone else is spinning, Kevin. I had one of those moments today where Spotify seemed to read my mind and serve me up an album I'd not heard before, but which 100% hit the spot - Hermanos Gutierrez 'El Bueno Y El Malo'. Absolutely sublime, languid and atmospheric Latin/western-style guitar. Looked it up online, and it seems Dan Auerbach produced it, saying "Some music sounds like tall, jagged buildings. This sounds like wide-open spaces in the outdoors." I listened, and was transported!
Oh, that sounds right up my alley! Thanks for the rec!
Good Afternoon! I'm glad to return to participating in this discussion. Right now I really love the new single from The Marias called "Run Your Mouth" Their upcoming album has a water theme that reminds me of tech commercials/print ads from the early 2000s. And it makes me happier that multiple other people have seen that connection too. I also listened to the new Justin Timberlake album and my favorites are "Drown" "My Favorite Drug" "Flame" and "Alone"
Seattle is experiencing our annual fake spring weather, so I’ve been enjoying Amos Lee’s Mission Bell album. It’s perfectly lazy and sauntering for a beautiful, warm, sunny week!
Anoushka Shankar - Traces of you
Also revisiting A Tribe Called Quest classics :D
I don't usually listen to songs over and over, but I haven't been able to stop listening to the new song, Glitching Prisms by Night Verses feat. Brandon Boyd. Just, wow, every time.