Monday, September 5, 2011

September 5-11

With new releases...

September 6th;

This week is another slow week in the record release category...

George Strait
Here for a Good Time

Well, this is only the 39th studio album from George Strait. The man is a country legend. He co wrote 11 songs on this album and the title single off of the album, Here for a Good Time, debuted at number 29 on the Billboard charts, the second highest debut of his career. The man is still going strong at his age. He also recorded the album at the same studio in which he recorded his last three albums.









Lindsey Buckingham
Seeds We Sow

For those of you who don't know who this is, Lindsey used to be one of the lead singers of Fleetwood Mac. He is also famous for the song Holiday Road, that is featured in the National Lampoon's Vacation movies. That being said, I had no idea he was still performing. I can't imagine this music is relevant to today's standards. Who knows, I could be wrong. Purchase at your own risk.












In review...

Red Hot Chili Peppers
I'm With You
This album is definitely not as good as Stadium Arcadium but I liked it. The album carries a traditional Chili Pepper's sound that can be heard on their most recent albums. I guess I still miss the Chili Peppers of old, with aggressive bass lines and energetic performances. I guess that's what happens when you get old, they have slowed down and become more of a professional band. I am not sure that there will be any other singles other than The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie but there were several I liked. Chili Peppers fan will enjoy this I am sure but if you aren't a huge fan, you can probably get away with buying the single online.












Lil' Wayne
Tha Carter IV
 I think some time in prison may have done Lil Wayne some good. I have never been a huge Lil Wayne fan, but, was very impressed with the complexity and depth of the lyrics. On several occasions, I had to listen twice just to catch the actual meaning. I was somewhat disappointed with the complexity of the beats but I am sure this would be a good album to play at high volumes on a good system. It is more of the same Lil Wayne, just with more lyrical prowess. I don't think anyone will be disappointed with this one. Enjoy!













Jay-Z & Kanye West
Watch the Throne
I have said this before, I get nervous about big name collaborations. I felt strongly that this one would be good though. These are the two biggest artists on the label and the album supports this. I wasn't entirely sure how the album would be put together and which artist the album would lean toward. After listening, I think it is a good mix for both artists and both styles are strongly supported. For me, it was also an interesting feel of classic hip-hop and modern style. I am not sure there is much to say here. When it comes to these artists, you either like this or you don't. If you like this, go out and get the album, you will enjoy.













Various Artists
Muppets: The Green Album
Anything that has to do with the Muppets....I'm game. This is a collection of popular Muppet tracks done by modern artists. This album features OK Go, Weezer and Hayley Williams, The Fray, Amy Lee, Matt Nathanson, The Airborne Toxic Event, My Morning Jacket and more. This is just a fun album. Both kids and adults should be able to enjoy this. I recommend this to anyone who wants classic Muppets with a modern flare.














Lenny Kravitz
Black & White America
I have to admit that this was better than his last couple of albums, for me anyway. With this album, you get classic Lenny sound with more of a retro feel. It has more of a funk undertone that most of his other stuff. I think the album lacks marketable singles but is a reliable reference to Lenny's unique sound. Unless you are a Lenny fan, you may want to pass on this album and get something of his that is stronger, like the album 5.

This weeks throwback albums...

Big Daddy Kane
It's a Big Daddy Thing
There was a time in the rap world when Big Daddy Kane was the bees knees. He was the coolest of the cool and the illest of the ill. I think he is often overlooked for what he contributed to the rap game. He was one of the pioneering forces in the genre and did a whole lot to bring rap to the forefront. He was smooth and had crazy lyrical game. This was his best selling album and featured such classics as Smooth Operator, Calling Mr. Welfare and Pimpin' Ain't Easy. Another must for collectors and a classic piece of rap history. Ch-check it out.

Eric Clapton
Unplugged
This is the second unplugged album I have had in this section after Nirvana. This one I feel is just as important. This marked a resurgence in the career of Eric Clapton. While he never really went anywhere, his popularity definitely waned. This set featured the song Tears In Heaven, which was written about the loss of his son, and went on to be a major hit. It also marked the revival of many classic rockers such as Neil Young and Tom Petty. This helped the MTV generation learn to appreciate some of the music that never had the marketing power of music video.


You oughtta know...

The Pistol Annies

The Pistol Annies are a country music supergroup consisting of Miranda Lambert, Ashley Monroe and Angaleena Presley. They formed after performing for the Academy of Country Music's "Girl's Night Out" special in April. They have just released their first album,. Hell On Heels and a single of the same name. I learned about these guys on Sunday (thanks Beth) and loved it immediately. I had to share the wealth. Get on this train while it is pulling out of the station because it may be hard to catch when it gets to full speed.




This week in history...

1956
September 9th;
Elvis makes his debut on the Ed Sullivan Show

1978
September 7th;
The Who drummer Keith Moon dies of a drug overdoes




Happy Birthday...

September 5th;

Dweezil Zappa
42
How did this guy ever get to date Lisa Loeb?

Loudon Wainwright III
65

Freddy Mercury
d.1991

September 6th;

Webster Gradney Jr. (Webbie)
26

Inga Marchand (Foxy Brown)
33

Victor Santiago (N.O.R.E./Capone-n-Noreaga)
35

CeCe Peniston
42
"...finally, it's happened to me. I turned 42 and I just cannot hide it...."

Macy Gray
44
Now it is more than a name it's an adjective.

Mark Chesnutt
48

Roger Waters (Pink Floyd)
68

September 7th;

Eric Wright (Eazy-E/N.W.A)
d.1995

LeRoi Moore (Dave Matthews Band)
d.2008

Benmont Tench (Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers)
58

Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders)
60

Gloria Gaynor
62

Buddy Holly
d.1959

September 8th;

Cameron Thomaz (Wiz Khalifa)
24

Stayve Thomas (Slim Thug)
31

Alicia Moore (Pink)
32

Patsy Cline
d.1963

September 9th;

James Tapp Jr. (Soulja Slim)
d.2003

Dave Stewart (The Eurythmics)
59

Otis Redding
d.1967

September 10th;

Joe Perry (Aerosmith)
61

Antonio Hardy (Big Daddy Kane)
43

Jose Feliciano
66
If you don't think Feliz Navidad is the catchiest Christmas song of all time.....you have no soul.

September 11th;

Chris Bridges (Ludacris)
34

Harry Connick Jr.
44

Richard Mellville Hall (Moby)
46
"...and Moby you can get stomped by Obie...you 46 yr old bald headed...."

Vic Wooten
47



Sunday, August 14, 2011

August 15-21

With new releases...

Jewel
The Merry Goes 'Round

This album only gets a neutral rating because the readers of this blog probably won't purchase a children's album, but the content is probably good. This is set to be a follow-up of her first children's album, Lullabye. She said that she wanted to make an album that was fun for kids and adults. I am not sure if adults are going to run out and buy a CD full of childrens' songs, but I could be wrong. Jewel has proven herself to be a good song writer but I think the response to this album will be divided; if you want a great album to play for your kids....."thumbs up"........if you want an adult contemporary album......probably not what you are looking for.






Blue October
Any Man In America

This is the sixth studio album by rock band, Blue October. This album was produced by Tim Palmer who has produced for some industry heavy hitters like, U2, David Bowie, The Cure, Robert Plant and Pearl Jam. For me, one of the appeals of Blue October is the lead singer, Justin Furstenfeld. He is very good at writing about real life and his past experiences. This new album is based around his divorce and custody battle over his daughter.








Jeff Bridges
Jeff Bridges

Most people don't know that Jeff Bridges was a musician before he was an Academy Award winning actor. In 2009, Bridges played a fallen country music star in the film Crazy Heart. He sang 5 of the 16 tracks off of the album. He signed with famed jazz label Blue Note records for his debut album. Coincidentally, he won an Academy Award for his role in Crazy Heart. I have no reason to think that this album won't be very good. I think it will be worth checking out.








Amos Lee
Live at Soho


This is an EP album recorded live at the Apple store in Soho NY. This album contained music from his most recent album, Mission Bell, which debuted at #1. Amos Lee is a quality artist who continues to gain popularity. If you don't feel like getting this live set, pick up Mission Bell. You will enjoy!










Breaking Benjamin
Shallow Bay: The Best of Breaking Benjamin

If you refer to the information provided in the last post, you will remember that this album was released without lead singer Benjamin Burnley's permission. Because of this, he is suing his band mates. So, this may be the last product released from the band. Let's hope not because they have been one of the best and most consistent rock bands of the last decade.









Frank Sinatra
30 Grandes de Frank Sinatra

This is what it is, a compilation release of Frank Sinatra classics. I give this a neutral rating because this doesn't stand out from the others in any way. If you don't have a Frank Sinatra compilation album, you may want to check this out. I don't really think it matters. Bottom line, just get some Frank Sinatra music, the man is a legend for a reason.










With musical review...

Royce da 5'9
Success Is Certain
I ended up liking this album. I am hoping I am able to give you an unbiased opinion. I have been on Royce's bandwagon since hearing him on Bad Meets Evil. I am very sorry I had not listened to his music before now. The album was as expected, less consciencious than I like but better than most crap that is on the radio nowadays. It sucks that this album won't get the air play or the medio hype that it should. In one aspect, I am happy because that leave his music to true rap fans. If you want a rap album that is much better than most, give it a listen.











This weeks throwback albums...

De La Soul
3 Feet High and Rising
This was the debut album from rap group De La Soul. De La Soul were affiliated with Native Tongues, rap groups who were positive-minded and culturally aware. This album always gets voted into the top 100 rap albums of all time. This album is fun and playful and a must have for any collector. It is hard to comment on this album because in many ways it is unlike anything else I have heard. Give it a chance.










Concrete Blonde
Bloodletting
I don't think Concrete Blonde ever got the recognition they deserved or developed the following they warranted. I, myself, overlooked these guys during the early nineties. I am sorry I did. Concrete Blonde was producing Gothic rock way before it was popular or cool. This album is vampire driven and has a dark and eerie undertone. The lyrics are haunting, yet poetic. If you have never heard them, they are highly worth checking out. I just heard this album recently and I don't think it is dated. This album only sparked one single, Joey, which in rare form, is by far not the best track on the album. Check out the songs, Bloodletting (The Vampire Song), The Sky Is a Poisonous Garden and Lullaby.








You oughtta know...

The Decemberists

This is an indie folk rock band from Portland, Oregon. They have released six full length album to date. What makes these guys worth checking out is their lyrics, which often focus on historical events or folklore. In addition, their live shows are know to be eclectic and entertaining. They often involve audience participation or reenactments of historical events or regional lore. They are highly worth checking out and may be nothing like you have ever heard. If they come to a venue near you, definitely run out and see them. I have included one of the songs that they are known to perform in depth. (The Mariner's Revenge Song)


In memory...
This past week we lost Jani Lane, lead singer of hair-metal band, Warrant. JaniJani. It is rumoured that Jani hated the song Cherry Pie, so it would be unjust to put that on here. Instead, I chose to include Heaven, a power ballad and a fitting tribute to the end of a rocker's life.





In other music gossip, Hilary Duff and her husband will be expecting their first child. How old am I getting when Lizzy McGuire is pregnant...yikes. It is also rumoured that Britney Spears and Lady Gaga are teaming up.....for the first ever skank-off?....nope for a duet....sigh....

This week in music history...

1993
August 17th;
The investigation begins against Michael Jackson for alleged child abuse.

1991
August 15th;
Paul Simon plays Concert In the Park in Central Park, NY

1985
August 16th;
Madonna marries actor Sean Penn

1983
August 16th;
Paul Simon marries actress Carrie Fisher

1977
August 16th;
Elvis Presley died of an apparent drug overdose. He was 42.

1969
August 15th;
The Woodstock music festival begins.

August 20th;
This is the last time that all four Beatles are in the studio at the same time.

1968
August 19th;
The final TV show of the Monkees airs.

1965
August 15th;
The Beatles kick off their third tour with the famous Shea Stadium concert.

1964
August 19th;
The Beatles perform their debut US concert at The Cow Palace, San Francisco.

1962
August 16th;
Pete Best was fired from the Beatles. Rory Storm & the Hurricane's drummer Ringo Starr takes over.

August 18th;
Ringo Starr performs on stage with The Beatles for the first time at Hulme Hall in Port Sunlight, Birkenhead.

1960
August 17th;
The Beatles perform for the first time using that name at the Indra Club in Hamburg, Germany. They play 4 and 1/2 hrs a night and 6 hrs a night on the weekend during a 48 night stay.


Albums from...

10 years ago...

2001

Adema
Adema













Christina Aguilera
Just Be Free













Juvenile
Project English













Rollins Band
Nice













Sugarcult
Start Static













3 6 Mafia
Choices: The Album













20 years ago...

1991

Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
Notorious
Spin Doctors
Pocket Full of Kryptonite













Vanessa Williams
The Comfort Zone













30 years ago...

1981

The Kinks
Give the People What They Want














The Pretenders
Pretenders II














Happy Birthday!!...









August 15th;

Joe Jonas
22













August 16th;

Vanessa Carlton
31













Walter Reed (Killah Priest)
41













Madonna
53













August 17th;

Donnie Wahlberg (New Kids On the Block)
42













Belinda Carlisle (The Go-Go's/Solo)
53
















Eric Johnson
57














August 18th;

Elgin Taylor (Masta Killa-Wu-Tang Clan)
42











August 19th;

Percy Romeo Miller (Lil' Romeo)
22













Joseph Cartagena (Fat Joe)
41













Clay Walker
42













Lee Ann Womack
45













Peter "Ginger" Baker (Cream/Blind Faith/Solo)
72













August 20th;

Demi Lovato
19













Fred Durst
41













Lawrence Parker (KRS-One)
46













Robert Plant
63













August 21st;

Kelis Rogers
32













Serj Tankian
44













Jackie DeShannon
67










Kenny Rogers
73



In Charlotte...


As with last week, the place to be is going to Time Warner Cable Uptown Amphitheater. Jack's Mannequin will be hear on Friday. From what I have heard, they tend to put on an entertaining show. On Sunday, My Morning Jacket will be here. These guys are amazing and remind me a little bit of old Radiohead. I have heard some that feel their music is life changing. Either way check out one of these shows this week. I wouldn't be doing justice if I didn't at least mention that Journey, Foreigner and Night Ranger will be at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater on Sunday. Woowee!!!!! Break out the acid washed jeans, feather your hair, cut the sleeves off of your favorite rock t-shirt and rock on!!!!