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Showing posts with label Jools Holland. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jools Holland. Show all posts

Thursday, 27 February 2014

The Cure - 'Boys Don't Cry'

Musical Medicine....a track that's like sitting in a bath of houmous and pitta for the soul!

Lock up your combs, The Cure are about!



The Cure - 'Boys Don't Cry' live on Jools Holland (2004)

It's a big deal being 4 3/4. You are almost 5 and that's when you become a big boy with all the perks that come with it, jumping higher, running faster and finally watching Star Wars. Sounds like a mini Bionic Man but all this is according to my son who I've just spent a week with for half term.

So one day, we're pottering around the house when The Cure classic comes on, 'Boys Don't Cry' and he asks me who it is. I show him a picture of Robert Smith and he's not impressed with his hair but loves the track as he's a big boy and that means big boys don't cry. True to his word, during the course of the week, he has been smacked in the face with a rugby ball, had his fingers jarred by a basketball, hurt is elbow when I 'accidentally' tripped him up and went to bed 'no messing' despite the possibility of Robert Smith's barnet hiding under his bed. But despite a couple of lip wobbles, he tells me it's OK because big boys don't cry just like the song.

'Boys Don't Cry' was The Cure's 2nd single which became their first hit and was taken from their 1980 compilation album, Boys Don't Cry.

More musical chicken soup? Check out our Musical Medicine posts here...

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Sunday, 17 November 2013

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 17/11/2013 - Ry X, The Wombats, Scroobius Pip Vs Dan Le Sac, Howe Gelb, Cecile McLorin Salvant

Five tracks that put the power in our slacks!




Old Pa's Corner:-
Howe Gelb - Vortexes (2013)


'Welcome to the Desert'

Says Howe Gelb, better known as the main man of Giant Sand. This is his second album this year. I don't know what they are doing out there in the desert but it seams to be working. This is the first track from his new album The Coincidentalist (2013) which just been released.

Howe has another one of these distintive voices and this is a smooth cool evening breeze of a track after a hot burning scorching day in the desert heat. Or even just relaxing after a hard day at the Office.

Shell Hunter:-
The Wombats - 'Your Body Is A Weapon' (2013)

Now I'm pretty sure this is not everyones cup of char, but I have to acknowledge the fact it makes me smile. It is good old indie disco plain and simple and the tinges of 80s synthesisers just make it. I've always had a soft spot for The Wombats, they don't take themselves too seriously and you can't deny they've got a knack for a catchy chorus (some may mistaken that for annoying, but not me). The line that tickles me and is a nod to all of us 80s kids out there is 'my body is a Temple Of Doom'. Any reference to Indiana Jones is alright in my book! Oh and I also like the fact he sings casual, calling the woman in question 'Love'. Cheeky bugger!
Sfw:-
RY X - Berlin (2013)


My wifey came home from work (always a good thing) and said "I have a song that is right up your street". "It's by RY X, do you know of him..." My blank impression gave it away. He is an Australian born, LA Based musician who has just released an EP that has got me all excited. Atmospheric, Melancholic & Emotive, it certainly hit the spot. I guess the missus knows me too well

Flycasual:-
Cecile Mclorin Salvant - 'Nobody' (2013)


The great thing about watching Later with Jools Holland is that one minute you're watching some electronica from Minneapolis and the next you have a captivating performance from Florida's Francophile Jazz singer, Cecile McLorin Salvant. 'Nobody' is one of those songs that must have caught me at the right moment, as it made me stop and listen, enthralled. I thought it was unique, a bit bonkers, a bit Billie Holiday, perhaps a little more acid tinged but what an incredible voice. And accompanied by an equally impressive trio of double bass, piano and percussion and you've got a winning formula.

In 2010, Cecile won the prestigious Thelonious Monk vocal Jazz competition and 'Nobody' is taken from her second album, WomanChild, out earlier this year.


London Scouser:-

Dan Le Sac vs Scroobius Pip & Flux Pavilion - 'Gold Teeth' (2013)





I won't make any excuses for selecting another Scroobius Pip track. Its a great song full of his clever lyrics (on this occasion he's dissing some of his fellow rappers and their penchant for the bling), with a great backing and to cap it all off it has a great video. 'Nuff said.

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Thursday, 11 July 2013

DYLAN COVERS #107 Mavis Staples/Pops Staples - Gotta Serve Somebody


A Bobby Ex!

 
MAVIS STAPLES and JOHNNY LANG - Gotta Serve Somebody

Here a couple of excellent takes on Dylan's Christian classic Gotta Serve Somebody.  The first one is taken from a the Points of light Tribute Concert in Washington DC, 21 March 2011. Close your eyes around 28 seconds,  if you don't want to get a horrible fright.

The second version is taken from Later with Jools Holland, 11 July 1994,  Pops is accompanied by Carleen Anderson & her Band.  Pops also did a studio take of the track on his album Father, Father (1994) ,

Both versions are definitely worth a listen . Happy birthday to Mavis by the way, she was 74 on Wednesday.
 
POPS STAPLES - Gotta Serve Somebody
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Wednesday, 5 June 2013

Friendly Fires - 'Paris'

Recollection Collection......musical memories recalled with affection!

 a chance to share some of my favourite songs, memories and B&B's. 


Friendly Fire - 'Paris' (2008) Great performance, great Ian Curtis style dancing!

There's nothing quite like springtime in Paris, that is unless you go when it's cold, grey and wet like I did in April. But that hardly mattered as it was for my wife's 40th (I know, what a guy!) - a rare foray away, the joys of parenthood shelved for two nights. I was also hoping to take in some of the sights and sounds of Jazz Age Paris al la movie, 'Midnight in Paris', Woody Allen's love letter to France's capital and a firm favourite of mine. It was a semi-surprise, as I ended up telling her a few weeks early and that was for two reasons:

Firstly, on the advice of fellow blogger Sfw, who wisely stated that a woman needs time to prepare and that I should probably give my wife the heads up in case she turns up, to one of the most stylish cities in the world, in a tracksuit (highly unlikely but I couldn’t take the risk).

Secondly, as my wife has never forgiven me for the last time I booked a surprise trip and as a result now takes on all the responsibility for booking breaks to make sure the family doesn't get traumatised, I needed to double-check that I was on the right track.


Better than Blackpool Tower? 
The aforementioned event was on the occasion of a friend's wedding when I decided to take the initiative and book a Bed and Breakfast. The website said that it was an idyllic cottage with a great breakfast, 5 minutes from the reception venue but more importantly it was cheap. It was also called 'Trade Winds'. I loved the name as it evoked the swashbuckling and romantic spirit of adventure, especially staying in a seaside town. Well, it was a crap adventure and it couldn't have been further from the truth. There were 2 single beds (romantic) with stains on the bed-sheets, a thick layer of dust covering the chintzy furniture with spiders ,dead and alive, lurking in the corners and quite clearly peeved that they now had to share their space with us. To top it all there was mould all over the (communal) bathroom. It made student digs look like the Ritz and, as everywhere else was full, it felt like we were well and truly shipwrecked. Furthermore, on reluctantly returning from a bizarre wedding reception (the groom ended up accusing his new bride of adultery), we were greeted by the B&B's owner, half naked in a dressing gown, gazing at us disapprovingly. It was like being in a creepy slasher movie. My wife was not happy! 

My SEAL team 6 style logistical planning paid off, and despite not hearing Cole Porter or having a drink with Scott Fitzgerald, we had a fantastic time. A beautiful boutique hotel, immaculately decorated (no mould or spiders to speak of) with a bath in the room! (All above board I can assure you). In an area where we could take in the most spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower I have ever seen (Palais de la Chaiilot) and strolling along the vibrant La Marais (so many vintage record shops too). Memories of my first ill fated surprise expedition well and truly exorcised! I can't wait for my 40th now!


Got the moves like Curtis, oooh oooh oooh....

Friendly Fires' 'Paris' was one of my favourite songs of 2008, probably due to the fact it's about Paris, it's romantic and has some good lines in it. An amorous guy promises his girl, they'll move to Paris as soon as he has enough cash and that's his goal, "just hold on a little more". And when they get there they'll watch the stars and city lights, "they'll be out for us", ahhh it's so nice. "I'll find you that French Boy, you'll find me that French Girl"....ehrm, hang on a minute, swapsies? That's not very romantic. Oh well, I suppose the French are at it, so when in Rome and all that (or Paris for that matter). 

The St Albans trio released their second album of 'Hawaiian shirt funk' in 2011, called Pala and have also released a Late Night Tales compilation. Check out their website here...... 


Have a listen to some of my favourite tracks on my Spotify playlist below or click here to read some more posts.


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Wednesday, 31 October 2012

Zero 7 - 'In the Waiting Line' / 'I Have Seen'


Recollection Collection......musical memories recalled with affection!

 with a smoke and a pancake!


Zero 7 - 'In the Waiting Line' (2001)

My girlfriend and I hadn't been going out long and were still checking each other out (yes still, read my Cuban post here)! when we booked a romantic weekend trip to the 'Venice of the North', Amsterdam. It was perfect, spring was in the air, the tulips were in full bloom, a leisurely stroll along a canal before taking in the Van Gogh museum. I had Post Impressionist facts about ears and stuff at the ready should they be needed to impress. Then back to our hotel, a typical classic Amsterdam townhouse in a quiet part of town for a nap before dinner, table booked for 2030. Bliss....ahhh new love!

I suggested that since we were in Amsterdam we should experience a 'coffee shop' - when in Rome and all that. In order to impress my girlfriend I wanted to make out like I knew what I was talking about so told her to follow my lead. We went to a chilled and cosy looking coffee shop away from the main drag with JJ Cale playing in the background - it was the perfect vibe. I ordered a coffee for me, a hot chocolate for my hot date and like a connoisseur, I asked the fine gentlemen behind the bar for the 'menu'. Without a clue, I decided on a ready made joint of which they had only one kind, ominously called 'Super Skunk,' obviously not a good idea but oh, what the hell, yes please!


A shmoke and Pancake alstublieft!

With the conversation flowing, the drinks going down nicely and the J being passed back and forth, all was going well. I was having most of the joint so I began to realise I might have a problem on my hands. I was already righting the world's wrongs in my head when my girlfriend piped up and to my horror said "Hey should we get another one?" Lord only knows why I agreed and even the barman looked at me with that sort of look that says, "you sure you know what you’re doing pal?" I returned to the table with drinks and with a doobie that even Jim Morrison would have refused. A few drags in, the conversation went dead, paranoia set in as I thought I had said something to upset her. Is that really the lizard king shaking his head at me in the corner? What were we talking about? The silence grew increasingly uncomfortable, I broke out in a cold sweat as I squirmed in my comfy armchair but was it really comfy? I realised I was having the dreaded 'whitey', blood drained from my face, features all slack....I had to get out so I bolted.


Dam Square, perfect recovery area..

My girlfriend chased me through the streets of Amsterdam asking what was the matter, with the bicycles dodging me thinking ‘bloody tourist!’, until I made my way to a crowded Dam Square. I tried to find the most comfortable position which was lying down besides the monument, half on - half off some steps, in the middle of the most famous square in town. Not really a good look for me and certainly not quite the impression I was hoping to make after the wonderful day we had had. We should have gone to a nice bar to have a couple of sophisticated cocktails as an aperitif before dinner. Instead what I did was probably the equivalent of downing two pints of Carlsberg Special Brew - classy. Dinner was now ruined, as it took me at least an hour or so to recover enough to get moving again. I don't remember her being that mad at me, (I definitely would have broken up with me) and besides, she is still with me 10 years on so my charm and irresistible good looks must have won the day!

Zero 7's debut album 'When it Falls' reminds me of that weekend. I had bought it prior to our trip and it was the ideal accompaniment as it was the perfect mood setter. Two of my favourite tracks here, with stunning keyboard work on the Fender Rhodes on the gorgeous 'In the Waiting Line' and 'I Have Seen'.

Please note, that both my now wife and I did not inhale!!


Zero 7 - 'I Have Seen' (2001)

Zero 7 official site here and check out RCRDLBL.com for some free Zero & downloads including their latest offering for the Talk Talk tribute album, 'Spirit of Talk Talk'

Why not subscribe to my playlist....it's a little bit crap!




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Wednesday, 3 October 2012

GIVE ME A GUITAR! - Foo Fighters - All My Life (Live on Jools Holland)

Give me a guitar!! Guaranteed to make your ears bleed! Grrr!



Foo Fighters - All My Life (live on Jool Holland 2002)


Last week I watched a retrospective Jools Holland where various celebrities were recollecting their favourite moments. Amongst all the classic acts notably, Radiohead, Johnny Cash and KT Tunstall (featured here), this performance stood out by far. I'm not a huge fan of the Foo Fighters, especially in more recent times but this reaffirmed why I did like them in the first place. Jo Wiley, described being blown away by this performance as saying it was one of the loudest things she has ever heard, never mind '11', this was turned up to 12!

Up to 12!
More importantly, it has the approval of my 3 year old son, who for some reason, has a serious penchant for rock music, the louder the better, perhaps not ready for the likes of Cradle of Filth or Cannibal Corpse but for the moment this certainly fit the bill. 




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Sunday, 24 June 2012

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 24/06/12 - Husky, Grizzly Bear, Giant Giant Sand, The Soul Rebels Brass Band

WE LAUGH AT THE FACE OF THE BRITISH SUMMER (WELL THREE OF US DO) WHEN WE HAVE SONGS LIKE THESE TO BRING THE HEAT!




Sfw:-
Husky - History's Door (2012)





This is a track that I've had for a little while but I'd forgot to share - sorry.  Husky are a four piece and this features on their debut album forever so. With it's driving beat and a kaleidoscope-like guitar melody, it spins you round like a boomerang and keeps on coming back to you. (sorry). It so good that I'll even forgive them for being from Australia - due to the Aussies beating Wales in the Rugby!

Download "History's Door" from the SubPop Label here 

Flycasual:-
Grizzly Bear - Sleeping Ute (2012)



During one of my many daydreams at work, this Buckley-esque, psychedelic, 70's retro rock song came on the radio and that's it I was off. I'm Chuck Norris, it's 71', 'Nam, I'm at the controls of my Huey approaching the target area..."abort, abort the LZ's too hot...gaddamn it" and with my mission over, I went to the office radio (which I claimed for the morning) to see which of the Buckley's this was (maybe it's just me). But I was surprised to see that it was none other than Brooklyn's Indie/folk (if that's a fair assessment) band Grizzly Bear with this new song, 'Sleeping Ute' taken from their new album, and follow up to 2009's Veckatimest, which is out in September. A lot more electric and definitely not what I expected, especially after their songs like 'Two Weeks' and 'Knives' but excellent nonetheless. GGRRRRR!

Shell Hunter:-
The Soul Rebels Brass Band - 'Sweet Dreams Are Made Of This' (2012)


I was in my local pub the other day and normally if you visit during the afternoon, the jukebox is set to random. Not only are the songs random, but they are bloody annoying as well! You get the likes of Chas and Dave, George Fornby and really bad europop. I think it's to encourage people to put money in so they can listen to something else! On exiting I was hit by this big brass band sound....and I recognised that song! Trusty shazam helped me out and I did a little research. These guys played on Jools Holland back in November and released their album 'Unlock Your Mind' on 31st January this year. I'm sure you'll agree, their sound rocks! Their style spans soul, funk, hip hop and jazz which I'm into at the moment. It's another reason to keep going to my local, it gets me into gems like this one! Check out their site www.thesoulrebels.com for tour info and free music!

Old Pa's Corner:-
Giant Giant Sand - Forever and a Day (2012)


If you are lovers of Calexico, well this is where they learnt there trade with Giant Sand who really is the Giant Howe Gelb. Calexico's Joey Burns and John Coventino often were deep in the heart of Giant Sand's music. This is great alt Country/Mexicana music, it is a fabulous track and really is 2 tracks for the price of one with a superb break in the middle. It is taken from his new album Tucson - a Country Rock Opera (2012) . I can't wait to get this and if this is anything to go by. 'Good Luck Suckers , I'm on my way!'  to get it!
Pussy galore
More tracks of the week here...
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Saturday, 26 May 2012

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 27/05/12 - Best Coast, Plan B, Linkin Park, Paul Buchanan

HOT, HOT, HOT!!! FOUR TRACKS THAT MADE US WANT TO WALK THE HIGH STREET IN OUR SPEEDOS!


SFW:- 
Best Coast - The Only Place

Best Coast, Best Coast Download, The Only Place Download






All this sun has taken the sadness away and I've been listening to more upbeat tunes! This track features on Indie/Hipster favourites Best Coast's new album and it is annoyingly happy. I blame the Californian sunshine -  but who cares - when the weather is like this everyone feels good!

Flycasual:-
Plan B - Ill Manors (2012)


I was quite fan of Plan B's early material, especially his 2006 album, 'Who Needs Action When You Got Words'. Undeniably talented, his raw no holds barred rhyming, clever word play and lyrical content that would make your gran blush, gave him the inevitable tag of the UK's answer to Eminem, not a bad accolade to have. I loved it! Then I heard his single 'Stay Too Long' from his 2010 follow up 'The Defamation of Strickland Banks', on a commercial radio and I was horrified, I felt he was just cashing in on the nu-soul craze, re-imaging himself as the male Amy Winehouse. Musical snobbery at it's worst, it was my loss as the songs I tried not to like we're actually good.

The anthemic 'Ill Manors' is brilliant, taken from the forthcoming soundtrack of his self produced film of the same name, it is without doubt one of the best tracks I've heard all year and for me a welcome return to his gritty, brutal best. Its political and socially charged lyrics (including a savage dig at David Cameron and the media) along with the organised musical chaos of the strings and beats, reminded me of Public Enemy at their peak. Now that's an accolade!!

I chose the live version from Jools Holland as it was a great performance but you owe to yourself to see the official video here.....almost too close to the bone!! Mind ya manners and check Plan B's website here, register and bag a free download!

Shell Hunter:-
Linkin Park - 'Burn It Down' (2012)


I never thought I would like a Linkin Park song as much as I like this one. When they first came out, I absolutely couldn't stand them! 'Nu Metal' was really popular but it just seemed like it was for kids and it didn't hold any credibility for me. I didn't think Linkin Park would last to a second album, let alone 5 over 12 years! In my eyes they deserve some respect! Anyway, enough exercising my guilty musical conscience, this song may not float everyone's boat, but its plain and simple, it floats mine. Their new album Living Things will be out on June 26th but don't panic! This single was out back in April. Get back to your teenage roots!

Old Pa's Corner :-
Paul Buchanan - 'Mid Air' Live on Jools Holland(2012)

The illusive PB


It was with great delight that I found out Paul Buchanan has a new album out (Mid-Air). Paul is one half of the 'Blue Nile' whom I have loved ever since 'Walk Across the Roof Tops' (1983) and along with 'Hats'(1989) form an outstanding body of work. Sad, intelligent, melancholy music. 'Lets go out tonight' from Hats is one of the saddest songs I think I have ever heard, it always sends down a shiver.

What a performance this is from the illusive PB and another sad, beautiful song and more shivers. I have listened to the album and it is superb, especially if you want something to put on for these moments of quiet reflection. Outstanding stuff from one of Scotland's best kept secrets. A true classic!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to our Spotify Playlist

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Sunday, 20 May 2012

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 20/05/12 - Cornershop, The Tallest Man on Earth, Hot Chip, Admiral Fallow

FOUR TRACKS THAT WERE 'A BOSOM FOR A PILLOW' THIS WEEK!

Old Pa's Corner:-
Admiral Fallow - The Paper Trench(2012)

Where's yer Beard Louis
Here  is a nice piece of Scottish Indie-pop, shades of the Proclaimers (and that is not a bad thing either). I am definitely interested to hear more from these guys and will have a listen to their album  'Tree Bursts in the Snow' released on Monday. This is the only thing I have heard from them, but it breezes along very nicely.

Holy! Moses, Holy Cow!  this is an odd video but I like the front man Louis Abbott, a star in the making.

I'm off to look for a tree! (where have I heard that before?) answers please to the 'Urban Tree Society, Benebecula, PO.Box 007.

Flycasual:-
Cornershop - 'Milkin' it' feat In Light of Aquarius (2012)


I came across 'Milkin' it' a few weeks ago when I was searching for last years album, 'Cornershop & The Double 'O' Groove of' which had pretty rave reviews. It's the first single taken from Cornershop's 8th and latest album, the brilliantly titled, 'Urban Turban' out last Monday, 14th May. I wasn't sure whether I liked the video or the song more but it certainly grew on me. But it must have been the B-boy juices in me that made my mind up as this is an Electro Funk ode to the Old School as In Light of Aquarius reels off a Hip Hop hall of fame (including Kool G Rap featured a couple of days ago). Lauren Laverne mentioned on her BBC6 music show that this is Cornershop's answer to LCD Soundsystem's brilliant self doubting classic, 'I'm Losing My Edge' (one my favourite of theirs). Word!

Shell Hunter:-
Hot Chip - 'Night And Day' (2012)


It's another long awaited album from my geek dance faves Hot Chip. Admittedly this track took some time to grow on me, I just couldn't get my head round the chorus. It wasn't until I was at work last week on a lates shift, the last to leave, locking all the doors and just about to turn off the telly in the restroom when I heard that familiar beat. Although I was in a rush to get the hell out, I had to stop and watch them perform live on JL in awe, as all the clicks and keyboards built each layer of the song up. They've even slipped in a bit of the 2 Bear's voice in there! Low and behold a girl drummer too! I love Hot Chip's look, tweed jackets and large plastic looking specs, is that what they call geek chic? Whatever I think about Jools Holland himself, his show has turned me onto so many amazing groups and shook me to my senses about this fab single. So far 2 out of 2 (Flutes and this one) from the new album called In Our Heads out on 11 June. I am seriously looking forward to seeing them live at Heaven in London on 13th June!
SFW:-
The Tallest Man on Earth '1904'







I am really looking forward to getting hold of the 'The Tallest Man On Earth's (aka Kristian Matsson's) new album There's No Leaving Now. The dylan-esq, '1904' has been generating a bit of buzz on the interweb recently and if the album has more songs like this, I'll be a very happy man.  Download 1904 for free from Rolling Stone

Checkout our Spotify playlist and more Tracks of the Week here
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Sunday, 6 May 2012

TOTW 06/05/2012 - Alabama Shakes, James Curd, The Dandy Warhols, THEESatisfaction




For Bank Holiday treats to enjoy with your fish & chips
Shell Hunter:-
Alabama Shakes - 'Hold On' (2012)


What a great feel this song has! If I shut my eyes tightly, I can picture myself in one of those massive rusty convertible American cars, rolling down Route 66 with the sun on my face! A friend of mine from work pointed this song out to me a couple weeks ago when it came on the radio. I found it on Youtube and was surprised it was a woman singing, Oops! Now that I know, I can hear a great similarity in passion to gospel singer, Mavis Staples. Lead singer, Brittany Howard has certainly got fire in her belly! That coupled with the laid back countryfied guitar makes for a perfect combo. A fresh new sound from down south that I haven't heard since Kings Of Leon. Their album was out April 12th and if you aren't totally convinced with 'Hold On' go to their website www.alabamashakes.com to sign up for a free download of a track called 'Heavy Chevy' for free!

SFW:-
James Curd - Guide Me (Gigamesh Remix)



I wouldn't usually pick something so upbeat, but this puts a party in my pants.  Gigamesh's remix of James Curd's "Guide Me" has turned it into a Roller-glitterball-disco-tastic monster.  Perfect for sunny days and Saturday nights it makes you want to put on the glad-rags and bust some moves - a club classic!

Old Pa's Corner :-
Dandy Warhols - Sad Vacation(2012)



This is my new favourite album 'This Machine' and I just love the title track 'Sad Vaction'. I have not listened to too much Dandys in the past and I can not for the life of me understand why. This is just up my street. This album sounds very tripy, groovey, if you understand where I am at and definately grows and grows with repeated listens.
Just Dandy!

Flycasual:-
THEESatisfaction - QueenS (2012)


Despite their poor use of capital letters, THEESastisfaction's awE naturalE is unquestionably my album of the moment. At just over 30 minutes long it's short but sweet and perfect for that daily commute, or when she's watching Eastenders. Giving themselves the appropriate title of 'Queens of the Stoned Age', the duo first appeared on last year's excellent 'Black Up' by fellow Seattle Rappers, Shabazz Palaces, who also return the favour here by appearing on several songs on the album. It's an electric, eclectic mix of Jazz, Soul and Hip Hop and there are some real memorable moments on it, perfect for the ageing B Boy in me. The psychedelic Soul of QueenS is a particular highlight with its entrancing beat and hypnotising vocals that give it a unique sound, certainly a theme which can be found throughout, making it so appealing.

Download the QueenS mp3 free at the Sub Pop website...THEESatisfaction guaranteed!! ehm..sorry!
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Sunday, 22 January 2012

WHAT A PERFORMANCE! - Janelle Monae - 'Tightrope' Live on Jools Holland


What a performance, jaw dropping performances from the frontline!



Janelle Monae - 'Tightrope' (2010)  Live on Jools Holland

She's got the hair, the moves, she oozes funk.

When I first heard of her I thought she was just another R n B diva, I couldn't have been more wrong, this girl is funk-ay! A James brown-esque performance complete with 'I'll get my coat I'm leaving, no not really' routine and with elements of prince thrown in for good measure, she left me wanting more. Oh and the band is not bad either.

03:45 in the video sees one of Cee-lo Green's minions deliver him some biscuits...that's Rock'n Roll!




Janelle is also an avid fan of Britain's number 1 rude comic, Viz and moulded her look on Felix and his amazing Underpants. In her early career she would occasionally be seen selling records outside venues emulating her hero.*

Bizarre but equally cool video to this song just cemented the track as one of my very best of 2010.


*not really
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Sunday, 8 January 2012

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 08/01/2012

New year, new you, still holding on to those resolutions? We can't guarantee you keep them but here are four tracks that'll even whip Mr Motivator into shape...

Old Pa's Corner :-
Leonard Cohen - The Darkness


This is a nice preview to Leonard Cohen's new Album 'Old Ideas' which is released on the 30th of January 2012. It has all the hallmarks of LC which I like, a haunting menacing backing and the usual 'interesting' lyrics which you would expect. This is a live take from a concert in November 2009 at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.  There are several version on You Tube but this is definitely the best quality sound wise. If all the tracks are as good as this, then bring it on.


SFW:-
Lianne La Havas -' No Room for Doubt (feat. Willy Mason)' (2012)

I've been looking forward to new Willy Mason material for a few years, but alas, (due to him 'parting' from his label) nothing is available (just yet) so when I heard this just before Christmas I was pretty excited.  Lianne La Havas has been making waves (no she's not a wave machine) over the last few months and she's also nominated for the 2012 'new faces' lists that you'll see scattered on websites & music magazines over the next few weeks/months. She's already appeared on Jools Holland (always a good barometer) and everything I've heard by her has been pretty magnificent.  Certainly one to watch!
  
Shell Hunter:-
Ren Harvieu - 'Through The Night' (2011)


In the middle of my singalong in the shower with BBC6 playing over the iPhone, this little beauty hit me. I loved the drama, the strings, the retro sound and thought it was a golden oldie perhaps from Dusty herself. I discovered, with soap in my eyes when pulling back the shower curtain to hear better, that Ren Harvieu is only 21 years old, with a fabulous voice and was a contender for BBC's Sound of 2012. I have a feeling she is going to be big. Watch out for a rumoured potential collaboration with Johnny Marr!


Download the track free here

Flycasual:-
Destroyer - Kaputt (2011)




I love being musically ambushed! Another victim of those best of 2011 lists which prompts the question,  'where have I been?' It definitely would have been on mine! Kaputt is taken from Destroyer's 9th album of the same name, ninth! Which was also released early last year. It's completely unique in the sense that you're unlikely to hear anything quite like it these days. It instantly reminded me of Prefab Sprout, The Blue Nile and even Swiss behemoths, Double (Captain of Her Heart....love it!!). It's musical transportation, as it took me back to a simpler time of Flux Capacitors, a crush on Michaela Strachan and waiting for the next issue of Smash Hits. More importantly it has a Sax!! And I don't know about you but I always crave a bit of Sax, quite apt following my complaint of a lack thereof in my best of 2011 post!


What's that in your footlocker? A Jelly donut? Drop and give me 20! Or check out more of our Tracks of the Week...
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Saturday, 7 January 2012

GUEST SPOT'S Best of 2011 part 4







I'm sure you are all back on the straight and narrow after Christmas but it's never too late to indulge in 3 more tasty tit bits from 2011. Thank you to Grace for sharing her top 3 which were definitely worth the wait!

Miles Kane - 'Rearrange'

Originally famed as lead singer of the fairly unknown The Rascals, as well as Alex Turner's partner in their side project The Last of the Shadow Puppets, Miles Kane returned this year with his solo album, 'The Colour of the Trap'. For me, 'Rearrange' was the song that made me realise how brilliant Miles Kane really is, as it was such a simple, catchy, 60s-esque song. It was only then that I discovered that he was the modern day Beatle, recreating cool with his back-to-basics fashion sense and fantastically old-fashioned music.



Metronomy - 'The Bay'
What a summer anthem! Even listening to 'The Bay' in this miserable December will make you suddenly feel like you are lying poolside, being washed by the Sun's rays. The bass line makes your fingers and toes tap, while the chorus penetrates through your brain to the point where you can't help but dance.





The Vaccines - 'Norgaard'
You know that moment when you're listening to an album for the first time and you fall in love with one song in particular? For me, that's 'Norgaard' - it's one of the best guitar anthems since 'I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor' by Arctic Monkeys and it's only 1 minute and 40 seconds long! It's a catchy, typically indie anthem that certainly packs a punch. Strangely enough, I saw all 3 of these artists at Reading festival and believe me, 'Norgaard' is a real singalong song.


Check out more from Best of 2011...or more Guest Spots from Grace...
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Sunday, 1 January 2012

TRACKS OF THE WEEK! 01/01/2012

Happy New Year!

Here's our Quality Street selection for the week. Let us know you favourites.....
Sfw:-
Feist - 'How Come You Never Go There' (2011)
I had a number of CD's on my "Santa List", and Feist's Metals was one of them. I remember seeing this performance on Jools Holland Later a few months back and being impressed.  I've got a few of her earlier albums but there always seemed there was 'another' album to get - you know what I mean? So while you nurse your hangover, put this on, relax and finish off the chocolates & sweets that no one else eats.


Shell Hunter:-
The Maccabees - 'Pelican' (2012)


The Maccabees have truly trumpeted the arrival of 2012 with this single released today! A great start to the musical year! This is going to be such an instant hit with lots of people. Its catchy and has good positive energy. Perfect to listen to whilst you go for your first jog as part of your all new healthy regime! I remember when I was a teenager enjoying a few pre-legal drinks in my favourite pub The Rifleman in Hounslow(now a Lebanese restaurant), I used to watch bands every weekend. I saw a band a few times whose guitarist happened to be my school matron's son who were also called The Maccabees. I can't find any evidence it's the same group, but at least I'm not lying when I say I drank in the same pub as them! Enough talking about drinking though, I'm on the waggon!

Flycasual:-
Joker - The Vision (Let Me Breathe) feat Jesse Ware & Freddie Gibbs




I was going through some tracks of the year lists and I came across this pudding of a song. I'm hooked, on it's fantastic bassline and that drill sound, all smoothed over by Jessie Ware's amazing voice. Real Dubstep delight. DJ/producer, Joker has been hailed as one of the UK's leading lights in British Electronica, responsible for creating some unique and innovative sounds. It's no surprise then, that he comes from Bristol, adding to a long list of some the UK's finest dance acts. As a result, Joker's debut album, 'The Vision', will find a permanent residence on my stereo for the near future, the bass guaranteed to annoy the neighbours.

Download the track here on Soundcloud...


Old Pa's Corner:-
The Black Keys - 'Sister' (2011)


I have just been listening to the Black Keys new album El Camino and this is the first one to get me. I always look forward to a new Keys album, I love their hard driving sound, this however has elements of a dance beat. It will definitely be on my party playlist this Xmas, I may even get up and 'bop' watch me go. I really  enjoyed the album and I believe repeated plays will deliver rich rewards. Definately recommended.


Brad & Johnny





Only left with the strawberry ones? Don't worry plenty more Purple ones here....

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Tuesday, 13 December 2011

SFW's Best of 2011

When Flycasual & I first started this blog back in March it was to recreate the 'listening' sessions of our past - we'd have a few beers and play a sort of Musical roulette, one of us would play 3 tracks, then another 3, then another 3, whilst catching up, we'd often find ourselves stopping the conversation and asking "What is this great track?", as you can imagine those boozing sessions would often go on far too long and the musical discoveries would often get lost within the hangovers.
"...a typical Tune Doctor listening session..."
Tune Doctor gave us an outlet to continue this  tradition - but allowed us to share & remember it!

However, when Old Pa & Shell Hunter joined, it didn't just continue the memory, it enhanced it - it gave us a wider range of musical discoveries, some would appeal, some wouldn't, but importantly, it wasn't the score, it was the taking part.

Our Guest spot has become the icing on the cake. When someone says "...you have to listen to this track, because....", I'll listen to it over and over and see if I can get a glimmer of why that song has tattooed itself onto that individual or it could be just how a particular song reminds us of someone, a situation, or a place...we all have them, let us know!

Finally this a thank you to Flycasual, Old Pa, Shell Hunter, our Guest Spot writers & finally the many people who have read or commented on the blog.....as the internet can be a lonely place!

Bon Iver - Holocene
"...Pure Sonic Medicine, Prozac for your ears...beautiful!"

Ryan Adams - Invisible Riverside
"..Ryan's back and better than ever with the album "Ashes & Fire" - up there with Heartbreaker!"

Lana Del Ray - Video Games
"...Internet sensation? Pouting Songstress takes over the world!..."

Chad VanGaalan - Peace on the Rise
"2011 has been full of Musical discoveries - Musician/Artist Chad VanGaalan was up there!"

Other Lives - For 12
"This struck me like an Arrow to the head, with it's sweeping strings, Americana has never sounded so good!"

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Saturday, 19 November 2011

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 20/11/2011

Four tracks that scratched our backs this week.




Old Pa's Corner:-
Tom Waits - Back in the Crowd (2011)




On Monday I got and unexpected e-mail from my sister in Canada, she said she loved the track I'd sent her. What track? I immediately went to the 'sent' items and found this track, I had sent it to the world! It then all came flooding back. We had a great meal by the harbour, then went to a bar on the way home (like you always do) until thankfully we ran out of Euros. We returned home and Shellhunter and I had some musical afters. I remember she fell asleep and I decided to check out Tom's new album 'Bad as Me'. This obviously hit me big time and I wanted to share it with the world (piss artist!). I still loved it on Monday and I still love it today.  It is the gentler side of Mr Waits.


SFW:-
Cass McCombs - The Same Thing (2011)

In my search for new music I've started to check Record Labels and search through their websites to discover (or re-discover) artists that I've neglected.  This week, I've been digging through the Domino Records (Arctic Monkeys, The Kills, Wild Beasts) vaults and I think I've got a cracker. Even though I love this track, I just cannot figure out what song reminds me of - and I know I'll be kicking myself (all suggestions welcome!). It is by the American songwriter Cass McCombs (great name) and features on the album 'Humour Risk' that was released this week.  I haven't given him any attention previously - even though he's released over 6 albums since 2003 and 'Humour Risk' is second of 2011 (after 'Wit's End') - but this track alone must justify a serious bit of rummaging through his back catalogue.

Shell Hunter:- 
Dry The River - 'Weights and Measures" (2011)



I was working at a boarding gate a few weeks ago for a flight bound for the USA and spotted five guys with beanie hats, skinny jeans and plimsoles on. They've got to be a band! Being the nosey parker I am, I went over to see if I could get a clue who they were. The security agent asked them what reason they were traveling to the States for: "Business", damn, no help there. One of their entourage said, "They're in a band but I'm just going to watch." Aha! I was right! I asked if I would have heard of them and one of the members mentioned they had just toured with Bombay Bicycle Club! Obviously impressed I asked who they were; Dry the River and their album was soon to be out. I promised I'd keep an eye out and here's the proof, guys! 'Weights and Measures' is the title song from their 4 track EP released on the 14th November and I was pleasantly surprised how much I liked it. The vocals remind me a little of Bon Iver or Jeff Buckley and is right up your street if you're into the growing number of talented Americana, Folk-rock bands that are out there. Let the heart felt emotion wash over you!

Flycasual:-

My Morning Jacket - 'Holding on to Black Metal' (2011)


Great track from My Morning Jacket, taken from their latest offering, Circuital, released earlier this year. I just love the 'big sound' of this song, big choir, big brass and big riff, it's also heavier than what I'd normally associate MMJ with. Then again I have only heard a couple of the 6 or so albums they've released, so perhaps there is a darker, heavier side to them and they are indeed hanging on to black metal. I saw them play on Jools Holland a couple of weeks ago and that performance clinched it for me to include the hirsute rockers here. Quite an interesting video though, I don't get out much these days and I certainly can't handle my liquor as well as I used to but I'll definitely have what he's having.

My Morning Jacket, what a bloody racket!

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