My Random Jukebox

Music is . . . . . to me!

2012-02-29T20:30:00.001Z

I am always shocked on peoples responses when they find out how much music influences my life. Everyone has their love for something or some people can call it an addiction, I would describe music as both for me. So what is music to me, MUSIC IS EVERYTHING TO ME! You may be reading this and thinking that statement is a bit over the top. I am lucky to have friends who understand and that would agree with me but on maybe on different levels.Let me explain to you more as I can talk about music all day, seriously, I could! Music is an art and art is about personal interpretation and emotion. I love how music can still various emotions either negative or positive. Music has become an outlet for me. It has helped me when I’m down, calm me down when angry, it has become my Zen. My first draft of this was very open and a bit too personal as I gave examples of moments of when music has helped me. I decided that something's should stay personal and removed them. I will say that it has helped to deal with sad times in my life.

I am not what you call a photo person and photographs are not a big thing for me either, but I understand its a good way to remember the past and other memories. I use songs like photographs, I have songs that remind me of good times and I feel its a better way to provoke memories.

Well, I hope I haven’t bored you too much with another insight into my crazy persona and why music is important to me. Feel free to let me know what music means to you.

Technorati Tags: Music is everything,music,emotions,art,inturpritations,memories,photographs

Tweet Tweet and Tweet some more

2012-02-26T19:37:00.001Z

I have to admit, I am a twitter junkie! This was proven today when I posted my 25000 tweet!!! Can’t believe I’ve tweeted that much in 16 months. I blame my mum, she made me chatty. The reason I enjoy twitter is that I have an awesome group of followers who share my love for music. They have such a diverse taste of music and an endless supply of music for me to check out. So for this, I thank them ALL!

Twitter has also gave me the opportunity to talk to many music artists (some I’ve been fans of for ages and I can’t believe that I talk to). I have to admit, it feels weird tweeting musicians who music I am a huge fan of. I like the fact that these artists will spend the time to speak to their fans, not always about music, sometimes it can be about random things.

So to celebrate this twitter landmark, I have created another playlist via 8Tracks with music from artists I’ve have the joy of interacting with. The playlist is called:

Sing for your TWEETS!

So hope you enjoy and if you are on twitter, come and say hello (unless you already do) at @myrandomjukebox. If you like some of the music on the mix, go say hi to the artists, they don’t bite.

Technorati Tags: Twitter,8 Track,music artistists,music,recommend

Early in the Morning

2012-02-22T20:44:00.001Z

I've talked about James Vincent McMarrow on an earlier blog post called Viva Buymoria. The show Chuck brought me to the attention of this amazing singer-songwriter.

As a gift, I was bought the special edition version of his album Early in the Morning. I have to admit, I had only heard a few tracks and I had VERY high expectations of the album. I have to admit, wasn't what I expected, IT WAS BETTER! Over last few months, I have been listening to a lot of singer-songwriters, but this guy is in the top 5, easily.

The album is beautifully crafted by this Irish folk singer. It feels tender and heartfelt, with vocals that sooth the soul. A lot of people have compared James to Bon Iver, I can see why, but I prefer JVM. The music is equally as good as the vocals, nothing complicated, but does the job. The track listings are as follows:

Disc: 1
1. If I Had A Boat
2. Hear The Noise That Moves So Soft And Low
3. Sparrow & The Wolf
4. Breaking Hearts
5. We Don't Eat
6. This Old Dark Machine
7. Follow You Down To The Red Oak Tree	Disc: 2
8. Down The Burning Ropes	1. Higher Love
9. From The Woods!	2. Wicked Game (Live)
10. And If My Heart Should Somehow Stop	3. We Don't Eat (acoustic version)
11. Early In The Morning, I'll Come Calling	4. We Are Ghosts

I have to mention the two amazing covers on this album. The first is “Higher Love” originally by Steve Winwood, this version has the stripped down slow tempo the you would expect, but with magical results. The other cover is “Wicked Game” originally by Chris Isaak. This was an interesting surprise but again, another amazing version.

This is an album that surpassed my expectations, which doesn’t happen very often. If singer-songwriters with an art for great writing and with a relaxing tone is your thing, then BUY this album. Hopefully you to will fall for the charm that this album brings.

Technorati Tags: James Vincent McMorrow,Early in the Morning,Higher Love,Wicked Game,Bon Iver,We don't Eat,music recomendation,music,folk

So far, so GOOD!!!

2012-02-19T19:36:00.001Z

I’ve only just realised that I have done over 50 posts on my blog. That might not seem a lot to many bloggers, but considering I only blog twice a week, I’m pretty happy. I started my blog to share music I enjoy with other people and I feel I am achieving that (maybe not to as many people as I hoped). I may not have a huge following but I do appreciate the feedback and support I get. You may ask, why do I keep going if I don’t have a lot of readers? Only answer I can give is “As long I enjoy writing about music, then I will continue”.

Anyway, back to what I love, MUSIC! I’ve recently stumbled upon a site called 8Tracks, which lets you upload music to make playlists for other people to hear. Its like making your own mix tape!!! There is loads of music on this site to listen to and I can’t wait to find new music (for me) to listen to. If find any playlists I like, I will try and share with you guys.

I have created an 8 track mix of songs that have been featured on my blogs since it has begun (called My Random Mix) . This is a recap of the pick of the tracks that I like and hope you enjoy. Hopefully this will become a new method for me to share more music with you. Feel free to join me on 8Tracks and share some music with me.

Technorati Tags: 8 Track,mix tape,Thank You,music,blog

As the Crow Flies

2012-02-15T20:52:00.001Z

I was excited to find out that Amos Lee was releasing an new EP, an artist I rate VERY highly. The EP is called “As the Crow Flies”. I have to admit that I have only listened to it on Spotify as I have ordered it on CD (as you would expect from me) and it takes a while for delivery.

Amos Lee is a singer songwriter who blends folk and soul to produce music that has a soothing tone. There is something about his tone of vocals that always relaxes me no matter what negative mood I may be in. He has released 4 albums, all of which are amazing. I still can’t believe I hadn’t heard his music until last year.

The EP has been described as the B-Sides from the album called “Mission Bell” which was released last year (first album I heard by Amos, which converted me). The track listing is as follows:

1. The Darkness

2. Simple Things

3. Say Goodbye

4. May I Remind You

5. Mama Sail To Me

6. There I Go Again

The EP itself is the same sound that he always brings, no surprises, but if it isn't broke, don’t fix it. The only problem I have is that there is no major stand out track, but if I was to pick one it would be Simple Things. If your looking for an album to listen to at the end of the day and just want to unwind, this EP won’t do you wrong. Now go listen and enjoy!!!

Technorati Tags: Amos Lee,As the Crow Files,Mission Bell,folk,soul,singersongwriter,Simple Things,recommend,music

A Little Brighter

2012-02-12T19:38:00.001Z

This week I been on vacation/holiday to Brighton (south coast of UK), which is why there has been one less post this week. While on my break, I have been out shopping for more cds to add to my collection (you know my and my music addiction ha ha). This post is about one of those purchases.

I picked up a cd by Pete Lawrie called A Little Brighter. The reason I bought this was because I found the cover familiar and wasn’t sure why. The price was really cheap, so I thought, why not!!! What I got in return was hidden gem indeed.

This Welsh maestro produces a wonderful album that caught me off guard as I didn't know what to expect with this mystery purchase. I would describe this singer songwriter as Mumford & Son meets Ray LaMontagne, but with that little bit more. Pete has produced a well balanced album that has various tempo and a charm that’s hard to resist.

Track Listening's:

In The End
All That We Keep
How Could I Complain?
Half As Good
Fell Into The River
Poor Man's Game
Paperthin
If Not For You
Just Dust
Dance On Your Own
Jimmy And The Birds On Fire

As debut albums goes, this is good stuff. A rare album where there is a track I don’t want to skip or think is average. This is an album that I can’t recommend highly enough, I’m on my 2nd listen today (its rare I listen to ANY album twice in one week, making it in the same day something to take note of). Just hope he gets enough support to help release more new music, I’ll be one happy to support this talent. Go check this album out, I be surprised if anyone doesn’t enjoy it.

Technorati Tags: Pete Lawrie,A Little Brighter,Mumford & Son,Ray LaMontagne,singersongwriter,recommend,music,folk,How Could I Complain?

Viva Buymoria!!!

2012-02-05T18:20:00.001Z

I recently watched the final EVER episodes of my favourite TV show called Chuck. Its a show about a nerdy computer tech (called Chuck) who has a database of government secrets downloaded into his brain. This gets him involved in going on deadly missions for the government. There is more to the show, but I don’t want to give away any spoilers. The show has it all, action, humour and a great story, plus some great cameo appearances. Back to the reason I’m writing this post, it’s . . . . . . . about its music!

The show has always had a great soundtrack either by music provided by various artists or from the shows composer Tim Jones (he knows how to write music to match the feel of the scene). I have decided to chose my personal top 10 songs that have been used in the show (some may not be a surprise).

Short Skirt Long Jacket by Cake (used in shows theme tune)
No Ones Gonna Love You by Band of Horses
Cruel and Beautiful World by GroupLove
Cobrastyle by Teddybears feat Mad Cobra
We Don’t Eat by James Vincent McMorrow
Howlin for You by The Black Keys
Woman by Wolfmother
Feelin Good by Nina Simone
Bears by Sam Isaac
Astair by Matt Costa

The show has featured many other great artists including Florence and the Machine, Bon Iver, Beck and many many more (but I could only chose ten). I can’t mention Chuck without talking about the band that is JEFFSTER, the worse cover band in the world EVER!!!! But, they are so bad that they are good.

Chuck introduced me to three artists who I have now become a fan because of the show, for this I am grateful. These artists are Band of Horses, James Vincent McMorrow and Matt Costa (which are all in my top 10). These artists are now part of my ever growing music collection and will always provide me of happy memories of the series.

As the post ends, it makes me think of the many bands I like because of TV show. I will leave you with this question “What music has your favourite TV shows introduced you to?”

Technorati Tags: Chuck,Matt Costa,Black Keys,Wolfmother,Band of Horses,recommend music,music,Jeffster,Buymoria,Feelin Good,James Vincent McMorrow

No Music Hunger!

2012-01-29T20:19:00.001Z

Over the last few weeks, I have been catching up on my music recommendations. I use many web sites, blogs and recommendations from friends. I have listened to well over 50 artists but nothing has caught my attention. I have even looked at my cd shopping list but I just look at it and think there’s nothing there I REALLY want to listen to. I don’t know if its just time of year or maybe my music thirst has dwindled. I always seem to have a steady flow of cds awaiting delivery, but I have nothing on order (except my pledges). Its a weird feeling, I feel like a vampire without the blood lust!

The only plus side with this . . . lets call it a draught, is that I’m able to re-listen to what I call classics. This does remind me of the sounds of music that I like and will hopefully help to rekindle my music addiction. I know this seems a weird post, but it probably shows that even a music junkie like myself has off moments.

Technorati Tags: Music addict,recommendations,music,music junkie

Butterfly

2012-01-25T21:09:00.001Z

Just after Christmas I received my Pledge Edition version of Butterfly by Hadleigh Ford (see blog Pledge Update - Hadleigh Ford). When I received it, I was surprised but happy to see a homemade cd and booklet. I found this really cool as it was nice to see a personal touch to an album, also there was a handwritten message from the man himself saying thanks for the support. Come on, tell me its not cool to feel appreciated by an artist for any support. But, this is one one the reason I have time to support Hadleigh, he has time for his fans.

As for the album itself, it was all good, not a weak track on there (in my opinion). I had heard a majority of the tracks from pledge updates and from Solow album (but some were different versions). My 2 favourite tracks are “Time to Move” and “Lullaby for Christopher”, both of which shows Hadleigh’s different music styles. “Time to Move” was a surprise as I haven’t heard the funkier side to his music and I liked it, I want to hear more like this. As for “Lullaby for Christopher”, I can only describe as beautiful (see video below).

Track Listening's:

Butterfly (solow version)
Emperors New Clothes
Crazy
Sounds like Sundays
Houston
How is That?
Lullaby for Christopher
Butterfly
Time to Move
Trust
Gloomy Sunday

So if you enjoy acoustic singer songwriters who connects to his fans, then Hadleigh Ford is your man. Click the links on this post to get more info and better still, buy his music to help support real music.

Technorati Tags: Hadleigh Ford,pledge music,solow,butterfly,Time to move,Lullaby for Christopher,acoustic,singersongwriter,music,support new music

A Genre by any other Name . . . . . . . . . . . .

2012-01-22T19:35:00.001Z

This week I was following tweets from BBC Introducing, this is where I can get information on new music or bands under the radar. This week they were having a music workshop with artists of different music backgrounds. This quote from one of their tweets caught my attention:

"There are only two types of genres, music that I like and music that I don't like" Mike Pickering

This got me thinking about the words “MUSIC GENRE”, what does this mean in the modern day? There are so many nowadays as well as sub-genres and more seem to be invented. When you listen to a band/artist, can you easily fit them into a genre? Does this same band/artist feel confortable about being connected to that genre?

When I talk to people about what music genre I/they like, that can cause some confusion. For example, If I talk about alternative rock, other people might have a different thought of what they define as alternative rock. Also, when I go onto music websites or into music stores, I always find it crazy and bizarre on what they categorise artists/bands into (e.g Amazon UK have Coldplay in their bestselling in ROCK, really? Coldplay are classed as rock?).

With so many genres and sub-genres out there, maybe we should publish a kind of music genre guide that defines them. Without something like this, it makes it difficult to describe a sound. This is why I agree with the quote used earlier, that there are only 2 types of music. What are your thoughts?

Technorati Tags: music genre,music,rock,music thoughts,bands,artists,genre,sub-genre,quote

Vertical Horizon Pledge Update II

2012-01-18T20:19:00.001Z

I haven’t given my latest pledge (see post A New Horizon) an update for a while and with 2 weeks left, we need your help. The target so far has hit 92% and we need your help to spread the word to help hit that 100% goal. Vertical Horizon need your support!!!

While writing this post, I was listening to their 1st album “There and Back Again" from 1993. Their sound may have changed but they still know how to make great music. Matt’s vocals are tender which adds something extra special to this album, which has a nice folk sound. My favourite track on this album is “Footprints in the Snow”, its a track that needs to be heard. If you are new to Vertical Horizon then I would start with this album and continue as they were released.

Back to the pledge, when you pledge, you get lots of great updates by Matt, who comes across as such a nice guy. When you read through the updates and watch the videos, you will notice that this album seems special to the band. It all comes across very genuine and its hard not to feel a bit connected to the project. On one of the posts Matt gives a nice video on the song writing side of the project, which I found very interesting. I do feel being part of this project is special, but maybe that’s because I’m a fan.

So, please take the time to check this band out if your a fan of alternative rock with great lyrics and vocals. Then go to Vertical Horizons pledge site and show your support.

Technorati Tags: Vertical Horizon,There and Back Again,PledgeMusic,Footprints in the Snow,recommend music,alternative rock,pledge

Long Distance Man

2012-01-15T19:31:00.001Z

Over the Christmas period I had a new follower on Twitter by the name of Shy Blakeman who said that you could download his latest album for free. You know how much I hate new music and music which is FREE! Ha Ha! So I thought, why not, let’s give it a shot.

The album was called Long Distance Man and what I heard was refreshing. Lately, all I have been listening to was rock and folk music, this was something a little different. I can only describe the sound as a hybrid of southern rock, soul with a twist of blues-funk. The album is filled with a happy vibe that is hard not to tap your feet to. The album felt like it could be a soundtrack to a summer of relaxing and having good time with friends.

The music for me, outshone the vocals. Shy has good vocals, but the guitar and piano are both on top form throughout this album. Tracks like “Don’t It Make You Wanna Dance” (which it will), “Dragon Fly” (my favourite track off album) and “Old Folks Blues” show real honest music that needs to be heard.

If you need a pick me up, then you can’t go wrong with this. Just click the link to get hold of your free copy of Long Distance Man, you won’t regret it. If you enjoy, then go check out his other albums, they are all just as good.

Technorati Tags: Shy Blakeman,Southern Rock,rock,soul,funk,Long Distance Man,Dragon Fly,recommend music,summer,music

Random Music Quiz

2012-01-11T20:00:00.001Z

I was reading the blog called The City is a drag . . . . by Megan Johnson (who did the guest post Ten Unfricking believable Covers). Her blog post was called 7 Artists, which was a random selection of music questions, which I decided to answer.

Pick seven artists/bands that you love (in no particular order) before reading the questions:

1. Otis Redding

2. Aerosmith

3. Queen

4. Amos Lee

5. 3 Doors Down

6. Lynyrd Skynyrd

7. Seasick Steve

What was the first song you ever heard by 1? (Otis Redding)

It was Dock of the Bay. It was on a soul compilation my mum played when I was a child.

What is your favourite song of 7? (Seasick Steve)

Tough choice, so many, but at this moment in time I will say Dog House Boogie (from Dog House Music)

What kind of impact has 1 left on your life? (Otis Redding)

First of all, Otis was the artist that made me adore Soul music, his vocals were amazing. Also, words can’t describe how much I adore Dock of the Bay! One of the greatest songs ever made!

What are your favourite lyrics of 5? (3 Doors Down)

Not sure, but top of my head will say the following from song “Here Without You”

The miles just keep rollin'
As the people leave their way to say hello
I've heard this life is overrated
But I hope that it gets better as we go.

How many times have you seen 4 live? (Amos Lee)

None! But someday I will, hopefully!!!

What is your favourite song by 6? (Lynyrd Skynyrd)

Simple Man, the lyrics are a lesson on how to live life.

Is there a song by 3 that makes you sad? (Queen)

Show Must Go On, makes me think of people that are no longer with me.

What is your favourite song by 2? (Aerosmith)

This is easy, it is CRAZY!!! First saw the video for this and thought “this is a good song, but the video is better”. But after hearing the song a few dozen times more, I bought Get a Grip and was hooked from there.

When did you first get into 5? (3 Doors Down)

Sounds strange, but it was because of the film American Pie 2. It had the song “Be Like That” which stood out for me and I went out few days to buy the album (A Better Life). From there, I never looked back.

How did you get into 3? (Queen)

They were played a lot by my Step-dad when I was young, which I didn’t mind. But, as I got older I started to appreciate how much of a great band they were.

What is your favourite song by 4? (Amos Lee)

Difficult as every time I listen to his albums I always find a new favourite. At the time of writing this post, I will choose Night Train form Supple and Demand album.

What is a good memory concerning 2? (Aerosmith)

Seeing them live in Paris, its the only time I have seen my favourite band live. Also that same weekend I proposed to my wife (I’m a rocking romantic, what can I say)

Is there a song by 2 that makes you sad? (Aerosmith)

Cry me a River from the album Rock in a Hard Place. Steve Tyler’s vocals are so emotional.

What is your favourite song of 1? (Otis Redding)

As mentioned many times on this post, go on guess . . . . . . . . DOCK OF THE BAY!!!

What song isn’t your favourite of 7? (Seasick Steve)

Can’t think of any, Steve has a vocal that makes it difficult not to like any of his song.

I hope this has given you all an insight into my crazy music mind. The regular readers of my blog would find some answers predictable, but I would call it consistent, ha ha! If you would like to answer any these questions, feel free to leave me some answers.

Technorati Tags: Queen,Aerosmith,Otis Redding,3 Doors Down,Amos Lee,Lynyrd Skynyrd,Seasick steve. Music,recommend music

WANTED! New Singer!

2012-01-08T19:32:00.001Z

This week I was sad to hear that the band Saliva had replaced the singer Josey Scott. I have been a fan of this rock band for many years and found Josey’s vocals always made the songs sound awesome. I will be interested to see how the new Saliva line up will sound and look forward to hear any project that Josey decides to undertake, this is what us fans do!

It got me thinking of bands that have replaced their lead singers (we know this happens a lot). This might be because of ego’s, creative differences, sick of the band members, etc. For me, vocals are a major part of a song as it can control the feel of a song. If a lead singer is replaced, the band should then change its name as its sound will change. Its like a cat barking, just not the same!There are many replacement singers that have tried to fill the shoes of the original singer and failed, but I can only think of a few who have gone on to propel the band status. The best example of a band that replacing the singer that was genius was the legendary ACDC. Who thought that that Brian Johnson would come into a already good rock band into Legends of Rock. As for a band that should give up and not continue with a new singer, its a tie between Queen and Inxs. Both bands have iconic lead singers that not only brought us amazing vocals but a unique stage presence. Inxs, I’m not a big fan but I understand their contribution to music and what Michael Hutchence brought to the world of music. As for Queen, I’m huge fan and no-one can get any where close to the magic that Freddie Mercury produced.

I know there are many other bands that have been successful in replacing the singer, feel free to leave examples, as well as bands who failed. I know there will be more bands I like who will change its line up, but I will always be willing to so how the change will go. If it goes wrong, then I will remember the band for the good times.

Technorati Tags: Singer,bands,ACDC,INXS,Queen,Saliva,Josey Scott,music,vocals

900 and still going!

2012-01-04T20:12:00.001Z

On New Years Eve my CD collection hit 900+. It’s a target I never thought I would achieve, but I did. This year has brought me a lot more signed albums to, which are that extra special. I have signed cd’s from great artists like Hadleigh Ford, Voodoo Johnson, The Product, Mission Hill and the list goes on. Just for the record, the 900th cd to join my music family was . . . . .

Oh yes, re-mastered version of “A Kind of Magic” by Queen.

A worthy 900 I think. I did say on New Year New Goals blog post that I would hit 1000 cd’s in 2012 and I think this goal is more than achievable. Some people say I’m crazy for having so many cd’s, but I don’t care, I’m a fan of music.

This milestone has made me think about how many cd’s I will eventually own before making the step into the digital music world. I know the time will come, but as mentioned in Albums all the Way blog, I’m not giving up physical music just yet.

As for the 1000th cd, I wonder which artist will hit that target? Who knows only I will decide!!!! ha ha!

Technorati Tags: New Year,Albums,900th,Queen,A Kind of Magic,milestone,music,2012

New Year, New Music and New Music Goals!

2012-01-01T16:39:00.001Z

First of all, just wanted to say

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Another new year is with us and like most other people, I have some New Year Resolutions (well sort of). I wouldn’t say resolutions, but more like goals. Since this is a music related blog, I will share my music goals for 2012.

I WILL hit my target of over 1000 physical cds. This is an insane amount of cds, even I have to admit. I also will start clearing out some of the more questionable cds from my collection once it goes over 1000 (making sure it doesn’t go under 1000).
This is probably the big goal for the year, learn to play the guitar. I have to admit, my practising routines have been mixed, but feel this will be the year that I will be able to play it. I wish to be able to play AT LEAST 10 songs and also decide if I prefer the acoustic or electric sound.
Try to get to more gigs! Its been quiet last year on the gig front, as I only went to 3 or 4. I would like to say that I would like to go to more than 10, but this all depends on money.

I have other New Year goals I wish to achieve, but they are all boring grown-up stuff (I hate being a grown-up). Feel free to share any of your music related goals with me on here, twitter or my new Google+! Otherwise, hope 2012 is an awesome as I plan it to be!

Technorati Tags: Happy New Year,Guitar,cds,new goals,gigs,music,twitter,google+,2012

Last Blog of 2011

2011-12-21T21:14:00.001Z

Hello readers, as the title says, this will be my last blog post of 2011. Don’t you worry, I will be back for 2012. So to end the year, I am going to be picking my ALL TIME favourite Christmas songs and most of them may be your favourite too. So, put on that Christmas hat, grab yourself a glass of alcohol and sing along with me to these awesome tunes:

Jason Mraz-Winter Wonderland. Love the original of this this track, but think this is a cool version
Vaughn Monroe-Let it Snow. Oldie but a classic.
Wham!-Last Christmas. Yes, I chose this one. Its cheesy but its good!!!
The Darkness-Christmas Time (Don’t let the Bells End). Again cheesy, but the best xmas tunes are!
The Pogues Feat Kirtsy MacColl-Fairytale of New York. The GREATEST xmas song written!!!

I hope you all enjoyed the music and the my blog this year. I wish to thank all of you who have taken the time to read my blog (AKA the ramblings of a crazy man). I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and hope you have an AWESOME New Year! I will leave you with the video, that I think says it all.

Technorati Tags: Christmas,Winter Wonderland,Fairy tale of New York,Last Christmas,Christmas Time,Let it Snow,Thank You,Christmas music,recommend music

More Xmas Songs!!!

2011-12-18T21:15:00.001Z

On my last post I talked about getting in the Christmas spirit by sharing some of my favourite songs with you. This time I decided to choose some Xmas tunes by some of my personal favourite artist. I have tried to add a few non-rock suggestions just to mix it up.

I also can’t forget the following (added links as can’t play through blog)

Run Run Rudolph – Lynyrd Skynyrd

I hope that you are all enjoying the festive music and again, feel free to make suggestions of your own.

Technorati Tags: Xmas music,rock,soul,blues,christmas,recommend music,Queen,Pearl Jam,Otis Redding,Lynyrd skynyrd

Xmas Time!!!!

2011-12-14T19:59:00.001Z

Its less than 2 weeks until Christmas and I suppose we have to talk about Christmas music. Growing up, I remember listening to the classics, you can’t beat the classics! Over the next few posts I’m going to share some of my favourite Christmas songs with you. Some original and some cover versions. Here are some Christmas songs which help get me in the festive spirit.

I hope you enjoy and feel free to share some of your choices with me.

Technorati Tags: Xmas music,Jack Johnson,Coldplay,Rudolph,Christmas,music,recommedation,Santa,Happy Christmas,alternative rock

My Album of the Year!!!

2011-12-11T20:12:00.001Z

I’ve noticed on many websites, blogs and twitter trends that it is that time of the year again, when people start suggesting their album of the year recommendations. I suppose I better hop on the band wagon and throw in my recommendation for my album of the year for 2011! This was a very easy choice for me, don’t get me wrong though, there has been many amazing albums this year. My choice is . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

WASTING LIGHT by Foo Fighters!

I know my choice may not be a surprise to people who know me, as I am a huge Foo Fighters fan, but there is a good reason to support this choice.

This album shows that it doesn’t matter how big of a music artist you are, you can still go back to basics and produce magic. I say this this because the album was recorded in Dave Grohl's garage and on analogue tape. Their end result is one of the best ROCK albums I have heard in a long time.

I can only describe this album as RELENTLESS!!! Its a heavier sounding album were the guitars are stealing the show (sorry Dave, you have been upstaged). There is not one weak track on this album and I find it difficult to pick my favourite (I can’t think of many albums that I have this problem with), but if I have to choose, my favourite track is the Alandria and then my next choice would be Walk. This album has been a runaway train of success picking up so many awards (all truly deserved) and they are still being nominated for more. This album WILL become a classic!!! Check out this link to watch the whole album played live from Studio 606.

So, this is my choice of music album for 2011, what is YOURS?

Technorati Tags: Foo Fighters,Wasting Light,Alandria,Walk,There is Nothing Left to Lose,recommend,rock,Dave Grohl,2011

Ten Un-Fricking-Believable Covers!!!

2011-12-07T19:52:00.001Z

Hi guys, todays post is written by a good friend and an excellent source of music for me. So, I’m going to stop writing and hand you over to Megan Johnson. Enjoy!!!

By the way, check her random ramblings at her blog at The City is a Drag . . . . . .

For a lot of music lovers, song covers can be a pretty sore subject. My question is, what makes one cover of a song truly great, and another absolutely cringe-worthy? What do artists have to do to ensure that when covering our favourite artists that they aren’t simply butchering the original?

Personally, I think the key is making the song your own while not attempting to do things with your voice that you simply cannot. For example, when William Shatner covers a song, he doesn’t try to sing it—he knows that he can’t. Instead, he does what he does best; Shatner covers songs in his signature spoken-word style. Love him or hate him, you can’t really fault him for copying the original.

Below is a collection of ten covers that follow the formula for a great cover. All of the artists on the list take a great song, add a signature style to it, and keep within their vocal abilities. As a bonus, many of these are live covers, which is a real treat if you’ve never heard them before. Here they are in no particular order:

Wild Horses-- Leon Russell (see right video) Leon Russell’s voice has only gotten cooler with age, and this cover of a Rolling Stones classic gives a great country/blues twist on the original.

Hallelujah-- Jeff Buckley - While Leonard Cohen is the genius behind this heart-wrenching number, Buckley’s the one who brought out its inner beauty and power. His delivery of the word “Hallelujah” at 5:58 still shocks me every time.

Hurt-- Johnny Cash - No matter how much you love Nine Inch Nails, there’s something very special about Cash’s take on this song. You can actually hear the pain in his delivery, and that’s what’s so incredibly poignant about it.

Friday Night Saturday Morning-- Nouvelle Vague - Originally by ska act The Specials, Nouvelle Vague’s singer gives this song a unique twist with her soft dreamy vocals.

Smells Like Teen Spirit-- Patti Smith - The grandmother of punk, Patti Smith, covering Nirvana in a slowed down bluegrass style? This one is just far too cool for words.

Bad Romance-- Joseph Gordon Levitt (explicit lyrics) Actor Joseph Gordon Levitt proves that he’s more than just a pretty face with this impromptu rock cover of Lady Gaga. His vocal style is really interesting, sort of a country-rock vibe in places.

Darling Nikki—Foo Fighters - This bizarre song penned by Prince gets the uber sexy treatment by none other than Dave Grohl. The 80s vibe is completely replaced with killer drums and heavy-hitting guitar.

A Day In The Life-- Jeff Beck - As much as I love the Beatles, Jeff Beck’s guitar playing more than makes up for a lack of vocals on this track.

Feeling Good—Muse - “Feeling Good” has been covered about a zillion times. Muse spices this classic up with some electric organ, Matt Bellamy’s quavering vocals, and one of my favourite things ever; singing through a megaphone.

Starman-- Seu Jorge - Stripped down David Bowie cover sung entirely in Portuguese? Hell, why not.

Technorati Tags: Cover songs,recommend,foo fighters,Jeff Buckley,Muse,rock,music,random,lady gaga,feelin good

Lister@The Cluny

2011-12-04T19:37:00.001Z

Last night, I had the pleasure of watching a guitar maestro at work. This guitarist was Aynsley Lister. The Cluny in Newcastle was the venue, such a great place for music and great place to go to for a good pint of beer too. This blues/rock guitarist is such a talent to see live, his guitar skills are such a joy to watch and to hear. He has seven studio albums to his name which have a great mix of rock and blues sounds including a great mix of original material as well of cover versions.

The gig itself was excellent as always, its the third time I have seen him and I’ve never been disappointed. When you see him play live, he is not very talkative or dynamic on stage, but what he brings is excellent music. He did a great mix of original material as well as few covers. His covers included, Feeling Good (Originally by Nina Simone), Crazy (originally by Gnarls Barkley) and Purple Rain (originally by Prince).

These covers were all done excellently with some amazing guitar solo’s. Crazy was a bit of a let down as he added a little funk twist to it and I preferred the album version which has an old southern blues feel. I have to mention his cover of Purple Rain as its the best cover of the song I have heard EVER! He ended the gig with this song (I think its a crowd pleaser) and as always the guitar solo is just amazing.

His original material is where he excels, he knows how to write a song and add his own music skill to it. He played a good mix of his older tracks, including Hurricane, my favourite song by Lister. New tracks were also on show, my pick was the track Home which had a great feel to it and can’t wait to hear again. He also mention a new album for 2012, can’t wait for that.

If your a fan of great guitar playing and a fan of rock/blues then you need to check they guy out. Trust me, you will not be disappointed!

Technorati Tags: Aynsley Lister,The Cluny,recommend music,purple rain,feelin good,hurricane,home,guitarist,rock,blues

Vertical Horizon Pledge Update

2011-11-30T21:00:00.001Z

Almost 4 weeks has passed since I made my pledge for Vertical Horizon at Pledge Music (see post New Horizon). We have 31 days left and we are at 57%! Come on people, support some great music! Here’s another video update from Matt.

So please check out the band at the following sites and tell your friends and spread the word through social media. This alternative rock band have some great music waiting for you to check out.

Vertical Horizon.com

Twitter/VerticalHorizon

Vertical Horizon-Facebook

Vertical Horizon-Myspace

I picked this video as it shows the great music these guys do and I like the intro. It gives some nice song writing advice to any budding songwriters out there. Go to Vertical Horizon at PledgeMusic and make your pledge, you won’t be disappointed.

Technorati Tags: Vertical Horizon,PledgeMusic,Alternative Rock,recommend music,pledge,music

Black Magic!

2011-11-27T19:36:00.001Z

I talked about an awesome band called Voodoo Johnson on the post Voodoo Magic, in which I mentioned that I had ordered their new Black Powder Mother Loader EP. Well it had arrived a few days later and to my surprise, it was signed by the guys!!!

The 5 track EP explodes with the hard hitting track Dogs of War, which is filled with some heavy guitar riffs that scream what rock is meant to be! Swear it to the Sun and Untitled/Divided continue with the same energy and sound. The Garden slows things down with a track that shows the bands softer side. The EP finishes of Black Skies which I think shows Nik Taylor-Stoakes great vocal range.

Overall review of the EP, THEIR BEST YET! Good to see that rock is still alive and these boys should be proud. I mentioned on the other post, that I had questions about the new sound, not any more!!! New direction is great and my only problem after listening to the EP . . . . . . . . . I WANT MORE TRACKS!!!!! Now I want a full album next!!!

Technorati Tags: Voodoo Johnson,Black Powder Mother Loader,Black Skies,The Garden,Untitled/Divided,Voodoo Magic,Dogs of War,Swear it to the Sun,rock music,recommend music

Here comes the RAINS!!!

2011-11-23T21:32:00.001Z

Just delivered yesterday was the album Stories from the band Rains. I’m a new fan to the band, first heard them about 6 months ago while listening to Alternative Addiction Radio (one of my favourite radio stations). First track I heard was track called Liar, this track caught my attention and from there, I wanted MORE!

This band is from a small town in Northern Indiana which provide great lyrics with a solid rock sound. The band consists of:

Jeff Rains – Guitar and Vocals
Andy Ryan – Drums
Joe Pitter – Bass
Jason Anderson - Guitar

The album Stories has a great mix of softer tracks to songs with more attitude. The band sound tight, but credit has to go to Jeff Rains for providing some great vocals that add power and emotion to the songs. The songs are well written detailed stories that have a lot to offer. The only negative point I will say is that I feel the band should push themselves more on the next album and take a few risks. I say this because I feel there is more vocal range to come from Jeff and that the band have more attitude to give. By the way, my favourite track it American Dream, such a nice story!

The band are pretty chatty on Twitter and they aren’t afraid to talk to the fans. I asked them some questions to add to this post. Jason answered both these questions (cheers for that if your reading this).

Question - What is your favourite song off the albums? Answer - Pressure

Question - What is the best thing about playing live? Answer - Feeding off the fans energy

I do recommend this album if your a fan of good solid rock music. You can also check them out at:

Facebook: RainsMusic

Twitter:RainsBand

Website:rainsmusic

Technorati Tags: Rains,Stories,Alternative Addiction,rock music,Lair,Look in my Eyes,recommend music,twitter,rock