Shadow Of The Hierophant - Steve Hackett (1975)
There are many things we must discuss in today's post:
1.) This is not my favorite Steve Hackett piece. That would be the beyond sublime instrumental "Horizons", which unfortunately appeared on a Genesis album, who have already been spoken for on this list.
2.) The logical second choice has to be this beast of a song from Steve's 1975 Solo debut Voyage Of The Acolyte, the first solo album ever released by a member of the greatest band ever. It features Mike Rutherford on bass, Phil Collins on drums and Mike Oldfield's sister Sally on lead vocals.......prog heaven, folks!
3.) Steve has had a bit of a rebirth recently, what with 2009's excellent Out Of The Tunnel's Mouth album and increased critical awareness of his prowess. His solo career has been paved with mouth watering options: CHECK THEM OUT.
4.) With this post, Steve Hackett has completed his destiny of becoming the last member of the "classic" Genesis lineup to make it into their own entry here on the 365. At this time I would like to acknowledge Chris Stewart, John Silver, John Mayhew and Ray Wilson. Sorry you guys didn't make the solo entry cut, but just be glad that you got to be associated with these Gods in the first place!
5.) Let's all listen and bask in my favorite guitar player's glow!!!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 324: Whores
Whores - Bobby Conn (2001)
Do you want to hear a song that takes you through baroque pop, folk rock and soul all in under five minutes?
Do you mind if its about prostitution?
Bobby Conn will hold your hand through the debauchery , and you just might never let go. Chicago's weirdest son has made a career out of incorporating all the genres of seventies rock into a beautiful progressive soup. 2001's The Golden Age is his Hotel California, but just like The Eagles, there is much in this wacky fellow's catalog to enjoy.
And you'll never look at ladies of the night the same way again.
Well, maybe you will, but you'll hum this song while you look at them in the same old way!!
Do you want to hear a song that takes you through baroque pop, folk rock and soul all in under five minutes?
Do you mind if its about prostitution?
Bobby Conn will hold your hand through the debauchery , and you just might never let go. Chicago's weirdest son has made a career out of incorporating all the genres of seventies rock into a beautiful progressive soup. 2001's The Golden Age is his Hotel California, but just like The Eagles, there is much in this wacky fellow's catalog to enjoy.
And you'll never look at ladies of the night the same way again.
Well, maybe you will, but you'll hum this song while you look at them in the same old way!!
Monday, March 28, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 323: The Lighthouse's Tale
The Lighthouse's Tale - Nickel Creek (2000)
In keeping with the Bluegrass hues of yesterday, I present to you what brought it back to my attention, after a childhood of reverence for Bill Monroe and teenage years fascinated with Bela Fleck.During my latter day college career, The O Brother Where Art Thou? Soundtrack had whetted my appetite for traditional music again. So, it was with great joy that I purchased what appeared to be the debut disc of Nickel Creek. They had actually released two albums as kids, 1993's Little Cowpoke and 97's Here To There. Yet, this is the disc where they were no longer seen as child phenoms. This is where Chris Thile, Sarah Watkins and her brother Sean became the best band in Bluegrass.......
Produced by the former crown holder, Alison Krauss, this truly is a "passing of the torch" scenario. Every track is immaculate in its acoustic simplicity. Balanced between traditional covers and stunning originals, the clear highlight (besides a romp through the folk standard "The Fox") is today's track. Co-written by Thile, it's quite possibly the most beautiful song of the just started decade. Never overly sentimental, it tells its sad tale from the point-of-view of a stone and mortar building. That it creates such a stream of emotions, not just for the human components but for the Lighthouse itself showcases just how strong these young adults were as artists. They would continue this streak of brilliance for two more discs before departing company for solo diversions (Mr Thile's project will appear in just a few entries.).
It really wouldn't hurt to make them your music of choice for a week or two.
You'll feel greatly enriched by the endeavor!
The video of this song is spectacular, but it is also an edit. Here is the full album version in all its down home/technical prowess glory!
In keeping with the Bluegrass hues of yesterday, I present to you what brought it back to my attention, after a childhood of reverence for Bill Monroe and teenage years fascinated with Bela Fleck.During my latter day college career, The O Brother Where Art Thou? Soundtrack had whetted my appetite for traditional music again. So, it was with great joy that I purchased what appeared to be the debut disc of Nickel Creek. They had actually released two albums as kids, 1993's Little Cowpoke and 97's Here To There. Yet, this is the disc where they were no longer seen as child phenoms. This is where Chris Thile, Sarah Watkins and her brother Sean became the best band in Bluegrass.......
Produced by the former crown holder, Alison Krauss, this truly is a "passing of the torch" scenario. Every track is immaculate in its acoustic simplicity. Balanced between traditional covers and stunning originals, the clear highlight (besides a romp through the folk standard "The Fox") is today's track. Co-written by Thile, it's quite possibly the most beautiful song of the just started decade. Never overly sentimental, it tells its sad tale from the point-of-view of a stone and mortar building. That it creates such a stream of emotions, not just for the human components but for the Lighthouse itself showcases just how strong these young adults were as artists. They would continue this streak of brilliance for two more discs before departing company for solo diversions (Mr Thile's project will appear in just a few entries.).
It really wouldn't hurt to make them your music of choice for a week or two.
You'll feel greatly enriched by the endeavor!
The video of this song is spectacular, but it is also an edit. Here is the full album version in all its down home/technical prowess glory!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 322:Tortured, Tangled Hearts
Tortured, Tangled Hearts - Dixie Chicks (2002)
Let's forget all we knew was to come in the Dixie Chicks' lives just a few months after the August 2002 release of their greatest work Home. Without the politics, pain, scapegoating and ultimate redemption through music and film, we are left with an album that blew minds when it was released. The Chicks always stood out in the cookie-cutter modern Nashville world, from their early releases up to their multi-platinum smashes once Natalie Maines became their lead singer.
Home was different though. It was acoustic, playful and full of artistic purity.
It was Bluegrass.
Forced to pick a favorite off of this landmark I have decided to go with one of the two songs co-written with legend Marty Stuart. Maybe it's the fiddle and banjo interplay that starts it off.
Maybe it's the infectious melody, sung to perfection by the Chick's effervescent harmonies. I can't really tell you.
It's just great.
And after all is said and done, it's what The Dixie Chicks will be remembered for.
George W. Bush probably taps his toe to this when no one is looking.
And Toby Keith wishes he had written it.
Let's forget all we knew was to come in the Dixie Chicks' lives just a few months after the August 2002 release of their greatest work Home. Without the politics, pain, scapegoating and ultimate redemption through music and film, we are left with an album that blew minds when it was released. The Chicks always stood out in the cookie-cutter modern Nashville world, from their early releases up to their multi-platinum smashes once Natalie Maines became their lead singer.
Home was different though. It was acoustic, playful and full of artistic purity.
It was Bluegrass.
Forced to pick a favorite off of this landmark I have decided to go with one of the two songs co-written with legend Marty Stuart. Maybe it's the fiddle and banjo interplay that starts it off.
Maybe it's the infectious melody, sung to perfection by the Chick's effervescent harmonies. I can't really tell you.
It's just great.
And after all is said and done, it's what The Dixie Chicks will be remembered for.
George W. Bush probably taps his toe to this when no one is looking.
And Toby Keith wishes he had written it.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 321: The Golden Age
The Golden Age - Beck (2002)
As a teen in the mid-90's, you had no choice but to be mesmerized by the man they call Beck Hansen. As we have progressed in our lives, we have heard more and more of the music that influenced this genius of the Alternative Nation, but it still doesn't take away from his Paul's Boutique meets Trout Mask Replica sample-rama he presented to us in those years. Mellow Gold, Odelay, Mutations, Midnight Vultures........these albums captured our collective imagination, while also providing us with ample reasons to pull out our parents massive headphones to let that wonderful noise cascade through our bodies.
Who knew he had a Nick Drake streak?
Slightly hinted at on 1998's highly underrated Mutations, Sea Change comes off like a lost gem from the Skip Spence/Syd Barret utter sadness folk genre. Beck had just come out of a long term relationship and the tunes he penned were like a slacker's Blood On The Tracks, which I am pretty sure is how Rolling Stone described it in their glowing review. Leading it all off is today's track, which introduces us to introspective Beck, who is quite different from ADD/kitchen sink Beck.
This is a man whose pain is something we have all felt at some point in our lives.
We've just never felt it so pretty.
Beck continues to trail blaze, what with Guero, The Information, Modern Guilt and his Record Club cover projects. He hasn't made another album like Sea Change, but he doesn't need to. That period of his life is over but it's always there, on your chosen format, when you need its soothing tone to whisper in your ear that everybody hurts, even buzz bin magnates.
Beck toured with The Flaming Lips as his backing band for this record, and their cover stands leaps and bounds above most because it is lived in. they knew this song like the back of their hands. Wayne Coyne's cracked voice has never sounded better.
As a teen in the mid-90's, you had no choice but to be mesmerized by the man they call Beck Hansen. As we have progressed in our lives, we have heard more and more of the music that influenced this genius of the Alternative Nation, but it still doesn't take away from his Paul's Boutique meets Trout Mask Replica sample-rama he presented to us in those years. Mellow Gold, Odelay, Mutations, Midnight Vultures........these albums captured our collective imagination, while also providing us with ample reasons to pull out our parents massive headphones to let that wonderful noise cascade through our bodies.
Who knew he had a Nick Drake streak?
Slightly hinted at on 1998's highly underrated Mutations, Sea Change comes off like a lost gem from the Skip Spence/Syd Barret utter sadness folk genre. Beck had just come out of a long term relationship and the tunes he penned were like a slacker's Blood On The Tracks, which I am pretty sure is how Rolling Stone described it in their glowing review. Leading it all off is today's track, which introduces us to introspective Beck, who is quite different from ADD/kitchen sink Beck.
This is a man whose pain is something we have all felt at some point in our lives.
We've just never felt it so pretty.
Beck continues to trail blaze, what with Guero, The Information, Modern Guilt and his Record Club cover projects. He hasn't made another album like Sea Change, but he doesn't need to. That period of his life is over but it's always there, on your chosen format, when you need its soothing tone to whisper in your ear that everybody hurts, even buzz bin magnates.
Beck toured with The Flaming Lips as his backing band for this record, and their cover stands leaps and bounds above most because it is lived in. they knew this song like the back of their hands. Wayne Coyne's cracked voice has never sounded better.
Friday, March 25, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 320: Hocus Pocus
Hocus Pocus - Focus (1971)
Want an example of strangeness in chart history? Today's track, a heavy Dutch Prog-spazz fest complete with yodeling, actually charted higher in the US(#9) then it did in the UK(#20)!
Beloved as a cover song by metal bands, this is hardly representative of what Focus could do. Their early recordings, before guitarist Jan Akkerman left the group, are some of the most out there "popular" music you will ever find. Pick up a few tracks at the old mp3 store and see if they are your cup of tea, then dive headlong into the insanity and skill that Focus encompass in almost every track they've ever recorded.
Two for the price of one, true believers: The album track and the slightly faster single version as well!!! Who loves ya?
Want an example of strangeness in chart history? Today's track, a heavy Dutch Prog-spazz fest complete with yodeling, actually charted higher in the US(#9) then it did in the UK(#20)!
Beloved as a cover song by metal bands, this is hardly representative of what Focus could do. Their early recordings, before guitarist Jan Akkerman left the group, are some of the most out there "popular" music you will ever find. Pick up a few tracks at the old mp3 store and see if they are your cup of tea, then dive headlong into the insanity and skill that Focus encompass in almost every track they've ever recorded.
Two for the price of one, true believers: The album track and the slightly faster single version as well!!! Who loves ya?
Thursday, March 24, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 319: The Waters Of Lethe
The Waters Of Lethe - Tony Banks (1979)
Lethe was one of the five rivers of the underworld in classical Greek mythology. Drinking from its waters resulted in forgetting everything you previously knew in your life.
Tony Banks was the heart and soul of Genesis and one of the finest keyboard players the rock world has ever experienced. He also is a solo artist whose works are to often overlooked.
After drinking the waters of today's track, a keyboard/analogue synth masterclass, I assure you that not only will you never forget Mr. Banks' talent, but you will also want to pick up his 1979 solo classic A Curious Feeling, digitally remastered for the kids in 2009.
Drink deep, good friends.
Lethe was one of the five rivers of the underworld in classical Greek mythology. Drinking from its waters resulted in forgetting everything you previously knew in your life.
Tony Banks was the heart and soul of Genesis and one of the finest keyboard players the rock world has ever experienced. He also is a solo artist whose works are to often overlooked.
After drinking the waters of today's track, a keyboard/analogue synth masterclass, I assure you that not only will you never forget Mr. Banks' talent, but you will also want to pick up his 1979 solo classic A Curious Feeling, digitally remastered for the kids in 2009.
Drink deep, good friends.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 318: Man-Erg
Man-Erg - Van Der Graaf Generator (1971)
Hearing this tale of an evil man in a beautific setting almost calms you initially, regardless of the subject matter.
Then the second part comes in, and all hope for redemption exits right out the door.
Van Der Graaf are one of the hardest prog bands (besides Can, which is a whole 'nother blogpost!) to get people into, but by this point in the 365 I would say only the true believers are left anyway.
I think you are ready for Peter Hammil and company. Hell, you might even seek out more from this never equaled group after hearing today's track, a cacophony of emotions and insanely tight playing.
I take that back. The band doesn't really so much play, as breathe together in a symbiotic exchange of power.
If you don't like what you hear dear reader, then I promise to return tomorrow to more "appeasing" selections.
But....
If you like your music to decimate you as well as inspire and move, then Van Der Graaf Generator might be the avatars of "difficult" work you've been looking for!
Hearing this tale of an evil man in a beautific setting almost calms you initially, regardless of the subject matter.
Then the second part comes in, and all hope for redemption exits right out the door.
Van Der Graaf are one of the hardest prog bands (besides Can, which is a whole 'nother blogpost!) to get people into, but by this point in the 365 I would say only the true believers are left anyway.
I think you are ready for Peter Hammil and company. Hell, you might even seek out more from this never equaled group after hearing today's track, a cacophony of emotions and insanely tight playing.
I take that back. The band doesn't really so much play, as breathe together in a symbiotic exchange of power.
If you don't like what you hear dear reader, then I promise to return tomorrow to more "appeasing" selections.
But....
If you like your music to decimate you as well as inspire and move, then Van Der Graaf Generator might be the avatars of "difficult" work you've been looking for!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 317: Slightly All the Time
Slightly All the Time - Soft Machine (1970)
After the proto-prog psychedelic musings of Soft Machine's highly influential first and second albums, no one was expecting the jazz rock epics that emerged on the double disc Third.
I don't think the band did either.
They continued to display fleeting moments of brilliance after Third's release date, but they never scaled these quintessential heights again. Play today's track, the disc's penultimate statement, for your friend whose obsessed with fusion era Miles Davis and watch their minds melt with the thrill of discovery of a kindred spirit they never knew existed. The Canterbury scene these titans hailed from isn't just a progressive rock offshoot. It is a masterclass in music all to itself! Google it, and find more brilliance.
After the proto-prog psychedelic musings of Soft Machine's highly influential first and second albums, no one was expecting the jazz rock epics that emerged on the double disc Third.
I don't think the band did either.
They continued to display fleeting moments of brilliance after Third's release date, but they never scaled these quintessential heights again. Play today's track, the disc's penultimate statement, for your friend whose obsessed with fusion era Miles Davis and watch their minds melt with the thrill of discovery of a kindred spirit they never knew existed. The Canterbury scene these titans hailed from isn't just a progressive rock offshoot. It is a masterclass in music all to itself! Google it, and find more brilliance.
JDIZZY's 365 # 316: Winds Of The Old Days
Winds Of The Old Days - Joan Baez (1975)
No one sings Bob Dylan (besides the bard himself) better than Joanie.
It also appears no one writes about him as well.
On her 1975 classic Diamonds And Rust, she presents us with two classic tracks about the voice of a generation. The better known of the two is the title track. It is Baez in "exorcising the demons" mode. Recorded on the edge of her infamous reunion with Dylan on The Rolling Thunder Revue Tour, she describes how much she loved and hated Dylan at the same time. The anger in the song has resonated through the years, with a metal cover performed by Judas Priest. The tender side of the song was picked up on by Richie Blackmore for his Blackmore's Night project.
Still, the tune about Dylan I've loved above all others comes on the second side of the original vinyl disc. It has never been famously covered or heralded. It's basically overlooked in the power of the former's glow. Yet "Winds Of the Old Days" let's you know just how much Joan Baez cares for Bob Dylan in under four minutes. It is a beautiful tribute to a tempestuous talent that is ripe for rediscovery, as is much of Baez's recorded output. From olde English ballads to modern masters, she is the consummate interpreter of song.
But here, on her own composition, we see her as Bob once saw her when he pinned "Visions Of Johanna". This is life affirming music that should not be overlooked any longer.
No one sings Bob Dylan (besides the bard himself) better than Joanie.
It also appears no one writes about him as well.
On her 1975 classic Diamonds And Rust, she presents us with two classic tracks about the voice of a generation. The better known of the two is the title track. It is Baez in "exorcising the demons" mode. Recorded on the edge of her infamous reunion with Dylan on The Rolling Thunder Revue Tour, she describes how much she loved and hated Dylan at the same time. The anger in the song has resonated through the years, with a metal cover performed by Judas Priest. The tender side of the song was picked up on by Richie Blackmore for his Blackmore's Night project.
Still, the tune about Dylan I've loved above all others comes on the second side of the original vinyl disc. It has never been famously covered or heralded. It's basically overlooked in the power of the former's glow. Yet "Winds Of the Old Days" let's you know just how much Joan Baez cares for Bob Dylan in under four minutes. It is a beautiful tribute to a tempestuous talent that is ripe for rediscovery, as is much of Baez's recorded output. From olde English ballads to modern masters, she is the consummate interpreter of song.
But here, on her own composition, we see her as Bob once saw her when he pinned "Visions Of Johanna". This is life affirming music that should not be overlooked any longer.
Monday, March 21, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 315: Foreplay/Long Time
Foreplay/Long Time - Boston (1977)
I don't really need to go into this one, do I? A monument of AOR rock, as well as the finest debut album ever recorded, this little two part beauty has always been the centerpiece of a vinyl classic chock full of them. And for a band that's only released five albums since 1977, it's quite an easy and immaculate discography to explore!
I have never liked this band more than right now!
I don't really need to go into this one, do I? A monument of AOR rock, as well as the finest debut album ever recorded, this little two part beauty has always been the centerpiece of a vinyl classic chock full of them. And for a band that's only released five albums since 1977, it's quite an easy and immaculate discography to explore!
I have never liked this band more than right now!
JDIZZY's 365 # 314: Merlin The Magician
Merlin the Magician - Rick Wakeman (1975)
No three chronological albums in an artist's repertoire have come to represent their careers as much as Rick Wakeman's first three solo discs. On his first, we are presented with six breathtaking instrumentals that capture the essence of the six women who were King Henry VIII's wives. On the followup, he demonstrated his storytelling prowess with his adaptation of Jules Verne's Journey To The Centre Of The Earth. A narrator was provided, as well as vocalists, but none were needed; not with such expressionistic music that provides the required visual aids for storytelling inherent in the listeners imagination. Then came the caped crusader's take on the Authurian legend and all bets were off.
This album should be in any music critic's top 12 best albums of all time. Instrumental music rarely finds such depth, power and nobility outside the realm of the classical masters. On today's track dedicated to Merlin we are treated to stoic beauty, rapscallion-esque delight and vivid mind pictures of the wizard who came first. All of his portraits on the disc ring out with the same biographical flair but, like The Six Wive's "Catherine Of Aragon", this one shines brightest in a vivid British sky.
It's a shame that dirty "prog" word gets attached to these pieces. If it wasn't considered such a divisive description, I would simply be recounting things you already knew about. As is, anything that the greatest tool (besides Jon Anderson's voice) that Yes ever "wielded" touches is well worth your time.
Rick Wakeman is a sorcerer equal to today's tune's inspiration, believe-you-me!
No three chronological albums in an artist's repertoire have come to represent their careers as much as Rick Wakeman's first three solo discs. On his first, we are presented with six breathtaking instrumentals that capture the essence of the six women who were King Henry VIII's wives. On the followup, he demonstrated his storytelling prowess with his adaptation of Jules Verne's Journey To The Centre Of The Earth. A narrator was provided, as well as vocalists, but none were needed; not with such expressionistic music that provides the required visual aids for storytelling inherent in the listeners imagination. Then came the caped crusader's take on the Authurian legend and all bets were off.
This album should be in any music critic's top 12 best albums of all time. Instrumental music rarely finds such depth, power and nobility outside the realm of the classical masters. On today's track dedicated to Merlin we are treated to stoic beauty, rapscallion-esque delight and vivid mind pictures of the wizard who came first. All of his portraits on the disc ring out with the same biographical flair but, like The Six Wive's "Catherine Of Aragon", this one shines brightest in a vivid British sky.
It's a shame that dirty "prog" word gets attached to these pieces. If it wasn't considered such a divisive description, I would simply be recounting things you already knew about. As is, anything that the greatest tool (besides Jon Anderson's voice) that Yes ever "wielded" touches is well worth your time.
Rick Wakeman is a sorcerer equal to today's tune's inspiration, believe-you-me!
Friday, March 18, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 313: Rio Grande
Rio Grande - Brian Wilson (1988)
He found his voice again on Orange Crate Art.
He rediscovered his muse playing Pet Sounds in its entirety.
He confirmed all the genius statements when he finally released Smile.
He showed that Van Dyke Parks, not Mike Love, was his greatest songwriting partner with That Lucky Old Sun.
He breathed new life into an American treasure with Brian Wilson Reimagines Gershwin.
It seems that Brian Wilson has returned to the public's hearts, minds and top ten lists.
But if we only look back to his much maligned solo debut from 1988, we will find that the genius of the man known as rock and roll's Beethoven never went away.
It just came sporadically.
And God, when it did (like on today's track).........
Words fail me.
Just listen to "Rio Grande" from that album and know that there are many more Smiles left in this beautifully fragile man's head.
He found his voice again on Orange Crate Art.
He rediscovered his muse playing Pet Sounds in its entirety.
He confirmed all the genius statements when he finally released Smile.
He showed that Van Dyke Parks, not Mike Love, was his greatest songwriting partner with That Lucky Old Sun.
He breathed new life into an American treasure with Brian Wilson Reimagines Gershwin.
It seems that Brian Wilson has returned to the public's hearts, minds and top ten lists.
But if we only look back to his much maligned solo debut from 1988, we will find that the genius of the man known as rock and roll's Beethoven never went away.
It just came sporadically.
And God, when it did (like on today's track).........
Words fail me.
Just listen to "Rio Grande" from that album and know that there are many more Smiles left in this beautifully fragile man's head.
JDIZZY's 365 # 312: The Temple Of The King
The Temple Of The King - Rainbow (1975)
What do you get when you take Deep Purple's lead guitarist and put him in a band fronted by The Holy Diver himself? One of the finest hard rock albums ever released. On today's track, they channel the sound and the fury of King Crimson's debut disc and make it their own on a folk rock classic. Richie Blackmore would continue to go down this path with Blackmore's Night, but Dio's vocals are not easily replaced, a fact made much more obvious in the wake of his recent passing. And the stories these two English wizards spun together aren't likely to be bested anytime soon.
These guys love this song more than I do!!
What do you get when you take Deep Purple's lead guitarist and put him in a band fronted by The Holy Diver himself? One of the finest hard rock albums ever released. On today's track, they channel the sound and the fury of King Crimson's debut disc and make it their own on a folk rock classic. Richie Blackmore would continue to go down this path with Blackmore's Night, but Dio's vocals are not easily replaced, a fact made much more obvious in the wake of his recent passing. And the stories these two English wizards spun together aren't likely to be bested anytime soon.
These guys love this song more than I do!!
JDIZZY's 365 # 311:Opening Move
Opening Move - Gryphon (1974)
Progressive rock probably shows up more on this insanely exhausting list than any other type of music. I guess that makes sense because it is the genre that truly inspires, challenges and rewards my ears the most. Also, I'm a sucker for underdogs, and Prog's phoenix-like revival is a humble reward for the many years of study I've poured into its history, culture and practitioners.
I've said all that to say this: Where else are you going to find a concept album about the game of chess that mixes Medieval instrumentation with a rock combo?
It ain't going to be on a Cody Simpson album, I assure you.
I remember first hearing about Gryphon's magnum opus in a magazine listing of the worst albums ever released. Naturally, I was intrigued.
After loving today's track from the day I pulled it out of the plastic and let the laser skim it's digitized surface, it is quite nice to find that the venerable All Music Guide bestowed four out of fives stars on it. Take that, music magazine I cannot remember!! Gryphon's catalog is short, but I promise you won't hear anything quite like it in the entire pantheon of recorded sound. Their music is timeless, extremely adventurous and steadfastly traditional, usually in the course of three consecutive numbers.
They are definitely worth the import prices you'll have to pay to get this, but isn't all good prog?
Progressive rock probably shows up more on this insanely exhausting list than any other type of music. I guess that makes sense because it is the genre that truly inspires, challenges and rewards my ears the most. Also, I'm a sucker for underdogs, and Prog's phoenix-like revival is a humble reward for the many years of study I've poured into its history, culture and practitioners.
I've said all that to say this: Where else are you going to find a concept album about the game of chess that mixes Medieval instrumentation with a rock combo?
It ain't going to be on a Cody Simpson album, I assure you.
I remember first hearing about Gryphon's magnum opus in a magazine listing of the worst albums ever released. Naturally, I was intrigued.
After loving today's track from the day I pulled it out of the plastic and let the laser skim it's digitized surface, it is quite nice to find that the venerable All Music Guide bestowed four out of fives stars on it. Take that, music magazine I cannot remember!! Gryphon's catalog is short, but I promise you won't hear anything quite like it in the entire pantheon of recorded sound. Their music is timeless, extremely adventurous and steadfastly traditional, usually in the course of three consecutive numbers.
They are definitely worth the import prices you'll have to pay to get this, but isn't all good prog?
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 310: Ballet For A Girl In Buchannon
Ballet For A Girl From Buchannon - Chicago (1970)
I met Chicago as a child, during their career makeover. They were all dressed up in David Foster arrangements and synth waves mimicking the computer chip on their 1982 album cover.
My mom and dad didn't mind this. I think this is why I have my natural affinity for 80's pop made by 70's rockers. Chicago 16 was played a lot in my house, and an early love of longer songs was fostered by "Hard To Say I'm Sorry" segueing into "Get Away".
This was good ironing music, which my mother made sure was always on the turntable when she used to do said chore.
Yet this was a band of many "Fancy Colours".
My parents also had Chicago II.
This was good life music.
Containing two of their greatest singles, today's suite (written entirely by trombonist James Pankow) is a fantasia of sounds: It is rock, then pastoral jazz which slows into one of the purest piano driven ballads ever recorded. Then, the momentum of love's power brings back the rock for a fitting reprise.
It is a mere 13 minutes long; short for the vinyl monsters favored on this blog.
Yet it speaks volumes on passion and its overriding power in a comparatively small time.
On an album full of triumphs, it stands head and shoulders above any glory past, present or future that the band ever released.
And if need be, you can iron to this one too.
I met Chicago as a child, during their career makeover. They were all dressed up in David Foster arrangements and synth waves mimicking the computer chip on their 1982 album cover.
My mom and dad didn't mind this. I think this is why I have my natural affinity for 80's pop made by 70's rockers. Chicago 16 was played a lot in my house, and an early love of longer songs was fostered by "Hard To Say I'm Sorry" segueing into "Get Away".
This was good ironing music, which my mother made sure was always on the turntable when she used to do said chore.
Yet this was a band of many "Fancy Colours".
My parents also had Chicago II.
This was good life music.
Containing two of their greatest singles, today's suite (written entirely by trombonist James Pankow) is a fantasia of sounds: It is rock, then pastoral jazz which slows into one of the purest piano driven ballads ever recorded. Then, the momentum of love's power brings back the rock for a fitting reprise.
It is a mere 13 minutes long; short for the vinyl monsters favored on this blog.
Yet it speaks volumes on passion and its overriding power in a comparatively small time.
On an album full of triumphs, it stands head and shoulders above any glory past, present or future that the band ever released.
And if need be, you can iron to this one too.
Monday, March 14, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 309: Autobahn
Autobahn - Kraftwerk (1974)
Electronic music, meet your daddy! After Autobahn, the music world could not deny the tasty synths played by those wiley German robots anymore. A heavily edited single version broke into the top 40 in America and the top 20 in the UK. This track, inspired by the famed German autoway, is the perfect soundtrack to any 22 minute drive you have to take. Kraftwerk continues to inspire, fascinate and blow minds with their catalog, but this is where the world took notice, and it should be praised.
Length be damned, here's the whole beautiful thing!!!!
And the single version that broke the band in the English speaking world!
And the 11 minute animated music video, made in 1979 by The Snowman's animator Roger Mainwood!
Electronic music, meet your daddy! After Autobahn, the music world could not deny the tasty synths played by those wiley German robots anymore. A heavily edited single version broke into the top 40 in America and the top 20 in the UK. This track, inspired by the famed German autoway, is the perfect soundtrack to any 22 minute drive you have to take. Kraftwerk continues to inspire, fascinate and blow minds with their catalog, but this is where the world took notice, and it should be praised.
Length be damned, here's the whole beautiful thing!!!!
And the single version that broke the band in the English speaking world!
And the 11 minute animated music video, made in 1979 by The Snowman's animator Roger Mainwood!
JDIZZY's 365 # 308: I And Love And You
I And Love And You - The Avett Brothers (2009)
I have a confession to make.
I slept on The Avett Brothers until the release of their latest disc, I And Love And You.
After hearing it, I felt really stupid.
I've now gone back to the rest of their career, discovering gem upon gem by a group who encapsulates Bluegrass, pop balladry and the best aspects of the seventies' singer/ songwriter genre.
I still come back to today's selection though.
Maybe it's because it was my first taste.
Maybe it's my boy Rick Rubin's intimate production.
Maybe it's because this for me is what sets The Avett Brothers apart, a conglomeration of old sounds I hadn't heard from anyone else.
Regardless, they have a lifelong fan now.
I have a confession to make.
I slept on The Avett Brothers until the release of their latest disc, I And Love And You.
After hearing it, I felt really stupid.
I've now gone back to the rest of their career, discovering gem upon gem by a group who encapsulates Bluegrass, pop balladry and the best aspects of the seventies' singer/ songwriter genre.
I still come back to today's selection though.
Maybe it's because it was my first taste.
Maybe it's my boy Rick Rubin's intimate production.
Maybe it's because this for me is what sets The Avett Brothers apart, a conglomeration of old sounds I hadn't heard from anyone else.
Regardless, they have a lifelong fan now.
JDIZZY's 365 # 307: Nashville Parent
Nashville Parent - Lambchop (2000)
Alternative Country doesn't get more obscure OR inclusive than the work of Nashville's Lambchop. Over the course of 10 studio albums, Kurt Wagner and his varying cast of players has deconstructed American Music better than anyone since Captain Beefheart.
And somehow made it beautiful!
It doesn't get any better that this track from Uncut Magazine's album of the year in 2000, Nixon. This album of post-Watergate paranoia and confusion is artistically one of the greatest American albums released in the 21st century. "Nashville Parent" sounds like fine 70's R & B, polished to a fine sheer with studio quality not readily heard on albums by turn-of-the-century indie artists. That it was released in the first year of the aughts and that few have come close to its heights speaks volumes about modern music's view of the pop avant garde.
Remember, Van Dyke Parks, The Fugs and Vic Chesnutt were all on major labels at some point in their career.
Lambchop deserves the same exposure.
Alternative Country doesn't get more obscure OR inclusive than the work of Nashville's Lambchop. Over the course of 10 studio albums, Kurt Wagner and his varying cast of players has deconstructed American Music better than anyone since Captain Beefheart.
And somehow made it beautiful!
It doesn't get any better that this track from Uncut Magazine's album of the year in 2000, Nixon. This album of post-Watergate paranoia and confusion is artistically one of the greatest American albums released in the 21st century. "Nashville Parent" sounds like fine 70's R & B, polished to a fine sheer with studio quality not readily heard on albums by turn-of-the-century indie artists. That it was released in the first year of the aughts and that few have come close to its heights speaks volumes about modern music's view of the pop avant garde.
Remember, Van Dyke Parks, The Fugs and Vic Chesnutt were all on major labels at some point in their career.
Lambchop deserves the same exposure.
JDIZZY's 365 # 306: Helplessness Blues
Helplessness Blues - Fleet Foxes (2011)
Ladies and gentlemen, the newest song on the 365! Originally set to be "Blue Ridge Mountains", this Fleet Foxes' entry had to be changed with the release in January of the title track from their upcoming album. Sounding like a long lost outtake from Simon & Garfunkel, the Seattle Boys can now add Baroque Pop as one of their influences besides Sunny CSNY harmonies and folk rock progression. It's also a "Bohemian Rhapsody" for the hairy bearded set, giving us multiple sections filled with yearning, hope and beauty. I cannot recommend a free download more then this one. Go to Sup Pop's website, get it for yourself and pre-order the new disc, out May 3. If you weren't already hip to the power of this groups' aural prowess, now is the perfect time to catch up!
It sounds good solo too!!!
Ladies and gentlemen, the newest song on the 365! Originally set to be "Blue Ridge Mountains", this Fleet Foxes' entry had to be changed with the release in January of the title track from their upcoming album. Sounding like a long lost outtake from Simon & Garfunkel, the Seattle Boys can now add Baroque Pop as one of their influences besides Sunny CSNY harmonies and folk rock progression. It's also a "Bohemian Rhapsody" for the hairy bearded set, giving us multiple sections filled with yearning, hope and beauty. I cannot recommend a free download more then this one. Go to Sup Pop's website, get it for yourself and pre-order the new disc, out May 3. If you weren't already hip to the power of this groups' aural prowess, now is the perfect time to catch up!
It sounds good solo too!!!
JDIZZY's 365 # 305: Never Going Back Again
Never Going Back Again - Fleetwood Mac (1977)
We can try to deny it all we want, but Rumours really is one of the best albums ever made, regardless of it's gargantuan popularity and sales. Like Thriller, it is a critic proof album, perfectly crafted, reflective of its time and timeless in its legend. That's not to say Fleetwood Mac's previous statements and future glories are anything to smirk at either. From British blues magnets to studio experimentalists, from 80's pop perfection to elder statesmen of the California dream, they have always been one of the best careers in music to follow. My pick from this monolith of analogue delights is Lindsay Buckingham's paean to the ending of a troubled love affair. On an album littered with pain, separation and regret, this song is jubilant in the separation of two lovers. "It didn't work, it was realized and we are better off without each other", it seems to say. It still gets my toes tapping and my smile muscles working every time I hear it.
As does the entire disc, regardless of the subject matter.
No matter how much it is over-analyzed, praised, debated or re-evaluated, Rumours will always have a permanent spot on my go to "perfect" records.
No more discussion is needed.
We can try to deny it all we want, but Rumours really is one of the best albums ever made, regardless of it's gargantuan popularity and sales. Like Thriller, it is a critic proof album, perfectly crafted, reflective of its time and timeless in its legend. That's not to say Fleetwood Mac's previous statements and future glories are anything to smirk at either. From British blues magnets to studio experimentalists, from 80's pop perfection to elder statesmen of the California dream, they have always been one of the best careers in music to follow. My pick from this monolith of analogue delights is Lindsay Buckingham's paean to the ending of a troubled love affair. On an album littered with pain, separation and regret, this song is jubilant in the separation of two lovers. "It didn't work, it was realized and we are better off without each other", it seems to say. It still gets my toes tapping and my smile muscles working every time I hear it.
As does the entire disc, regardless of the subject matter.
No matter how much it is over-analyzed, praised, debated or re-evaluated, Rumours will always have a permanent spot on my go to "perfect" records.
No more discussion is needed.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 304: Dear God
Dear God - XTC (1986)
Added to the tracklisting of their 1986 album Skylarking after it was released in stores in the UK because of the single's success in the states, "Dear God" has proven to be quite the milestone for this quirky little "so better than all the others" New Wave band. Although their late period trilogy of classics (Oranges & Lemons, Nonsuch and Apple Venus Volume I) will always be my favorites, today's song is the most brash, brilliant, questioning and controversial song to ever rock America's puritanical airwaves. The fact that such religious doubt is spoken in the body of a 3 minute pop song is staggering.
And it's produced by Todd Rundgren.
And it really hits hard.
It's a better argument than Richard Dawkins has had in his entire career.
See, pop music can cause philosophical discussions as well as fill our ears with candy!
Sarah McLachlan, I didn't know you had it in you!
Added to the tracklisting of their 1986 album Skylarking after it was released in stores in the UK because of the single's success in the states, "Dear God" has proven to be quite the milestone for this quirky little "so better than all the others" New Wave band. Although their late period trilogy of classics (Oranges & Lemons, Nonsuch and Apple Venus Volume I) will always be my favorites, today's song is the most brash, brilliant, questioning and controversial song to ever rock America's puritanical airwaves. The fact that such religious doubt is spoken in the body of a 3 minute pop song is staggering.
And it's produced by Todd Rundgren.
And it really hits hard.
It's a better argument than Richard Dawkins has had in his entire career.
See, pop music can cause philosophical discussions as well as fill our ears with candy!
Sarah McLachlan, I didn't know you had it in you!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 303: Buenas Tardes Amigo
Buenas Tardes Amigo - Ween (1994)
Ladies and gentlemen, this is my generations' Zappa. For every silly little ditty Ween wrote about pedophiles, pork rolls and poop, there is a guaranteed mind-blower like today's song. Released as an album track on one of the best albums of the 90's, it tells the story of a brother's revenge that might not be for the right reasons. Listening to this song is watching a Spaghetti Western in your mind: No visuals are needed. The guitar solo that becomes the middle break is one of the creepiest you will ever hear in your life: ragged, howling and possibly crazy, much like our narrator. Ween would go from amateur darlings into full fledged album brilliance in their storied career. This is where the professionalism and talent took over for the jokes. They never let go of their novelty side, but they made sure that each subsequent masterpiece was littered with brilliance of this caliber.
What more can you ask from a band?
Not a whole lot.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is my generations' Zappa. For every silly little ditty Ween wrote about pedophiles, pork rolls and poop, there is a guaranteed mind-blower like today's song. Released as an album track on one of the best albums of the 90's, it tells the story of a brother's revenge that might not be for the right reasons. Listening to this song is watching a Spaghetti Western in your mind: No visuals are needed. The guitar solo that becomes the middle break is one of the creepiest you will ever hear in your life: ragged, howling and possibly crazy, much like our narrator. Ween would go from amateur darlings into full fledged album brilliance in their storied career. This is where the professionalism and talent took over for the jokes. They never let go of their novelty side, but they made sure that each subsequent masterpiece was littered with brilliance of this caliber.
What more can you ask from a band?
Not a whole lot.
Monday, March 7, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 302: I Am Trying To Break Your Heart
I Am Trying To Break Your Heart - Wilco (2002)
Isn't it great that the little album that almost never was turned out to be Wilco's biggest hit? Isn't it great that the late great Jay Bennett, though fired from the group by the official release date, gave this album so much in terms of multi-instrumentation? Isn't it great that the leading track, today's actually, is one of the best, just like leading tracks used to be when we were kids? Isn't it great that Wilco has never sucked, from their Alternative Country beginnings up to the present day, where they are revered in the same breath as Radiohead for originality, quality and substance?
Yes, Yep, Yeppers and Uh Huh, respectively!
And Jeff Tweedy rules as a human being........seriously!
Hmm, I think I have to check this band out now.
Isn't it great that the little album that almost never was turned out to be Wilco's biggest hit? Isn't it great that the late great Jay Bennett, though fired from the group by the official release date, gave this album so much in terms of multi-instrumentation? Isn't it great that the leading track, today's actually, is one of the best, just like leading tracks used to be when we were kids? Isn't it great that Wilco has never sucked, from their Alternative Country beginnings up to the present day, where they are revered in the same breath as Radiohead for originality, quality and substance?
Yes, Yep, Yeppers and Uh Huh, respectively!
And Jeff Tweedy rules as a human being........seriously!
Hmm, I think I have to check this band out now.
JDIZZY's 365 # 301: Breaking Up
Breaking Up - Rilo Kiley (2007)
Rilo Kiley's blend of intelligent singer/songwriter/70's AM pop meets disco on this crushingly brilliant jam from their last studio effort Under The Blacklight. The band has gone on hiatus it seems, what with Jenny Lewis' rising attention to her solo projects. However, 4 insanely strong albums and an E.P. are enough to keep any music fan busy with captivating listening for quite some time!
The dance break in this fan made video never ceases to bring a smile to my face!
As a bonus, let's pay tribute to the childhood acting careers of band members Jenny Lewis & Blake Sennett! I wonder if they are still friends with Fred Savage?
Rilo Kiley's blend of intelligent singer/songwriter/70's AM pop meets disco on this crushingly brilliant jam from their last studio effort Under The Blacklight. The band has gone on hiatus it seems, what with Jenny Lewis' rising attention to her solo projects. However, 4 insanely strong albums and an E.P. are enough to keep any music fan busy with captivating listening for quite some time!
The dance break in this fan made video never ceases to bring a smile to my face!
As a bonus, let's pay tribute to the childhood acting careers of band members Jenny Lewis & Blake Sennett! I wonder if they are still friends with Fred Savage?
Sunday, March 6, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 300: The Battle Of New Orleans
The Battle Of New Orleans - Johnny Horton (1959)
Although it removed some fun curses and a few verses of historical fact, Johnny Horton's cover of Jimmie Driftwood's classic established him in the late 50's as the king of the country story song. It even took him to the top of the pop charts. For an artist who died so young and released so little, Horton's work still holds up and compilations are cheaply and readily available wherever you kids buy your fuzzy warbles these days.
And while seeking out said warbles, check out the work of former High School Principal Driftwood as well. The man had a way with the historical hoedown!
Three covers, a parody and an English ears version, oh my!
Although it removed some fun curses and a few verses of historical fact, Johnny Horton's cover of Jimmie Driftwood's classic established him in the late 50's as the king of the country story song. It even took him to the top of the pop charts. For an artist who died so young and released so little, Horton's work still holds up and compilations are cheaply and readily available wherever you kids buy your fuzzy warbles these days.
And while seeking out said warbles, check out the work of former High School Principal Driftwood as well. The man had a way with the historical hoedown!
Three covers, a parody and an English ears version, oh my!
Friday, March 4, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 299: Lady Fantasy
Lady Fantasy - Camel (1974)
First the synth grabs you, followed quickly by that stabbing electric guitar. Then less than a minute later the song has gone into a completely different direction involving acoustic guitars, subtle electric keyboards and lyrics sung in a gentle baritone about a dream woman.
Folks, that's the first 2 minutes. The song still has 10 to go.
What I've always loved about Camel is that throughout their career, of all the progressive bands, they have stayed the truest to their chosen path, even if their profile has been considerably lower. I assure you, Andy Latimer and Co. will honestly never disappoint.
If you love this formerly woebegotten genre that I write about so often on this blog, you must be a pretty big music fan. Prog doesn't reward the casual listener. Yet somehow its star seems to be rising, as critics, musicians, radio stations and labels continue to mine its riches. I promise you: One day Camel will be mentioned in the same breath as Floyd, Tull, Yes, ELP and Genesis.
Now you can say you were already a fan, as one listen to "Lady Fantasy" is all you will need to become one.
First the synth grabs you, followed quickly by that stabbing electric guitar. Then less than a minute later the song has gone into a completely different direction involving acoustic guitars, subtle electric keyboards and lyrics sung in a gentle baritone about a dream woman.
Folks, that's the first 2 minutes. The song still has 10 to go.
What I've always loved about Camel is that throughout their career, of all the progressive bands, they have stayed the truest to their chosen path, even if their profile has been considerably lower. I assure you, Andy Latimer and Co. will honestly never disappoint.
If you love this formerly woebegotten genre that I write about so often on this blog, you must be a pretty big music fan. Prog doesn't reward the casual listener. Yet somehow its star seems to be rising, as critics, musicians, radio stations and labels continue to mine its riches. I promise you: One day Camel will be mentioned in the same breath as Floyd, Tull, Yes, ELP and Genesis.
Now you can say you were already a fan, as one listen to "Lady Fantasy" is all you will need to become one.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 298: War Pigs
War Pigs - Black Sabbath (1970)
The Beatles birthed heavy metal with "Helter Skelter".
Black Sabbath nurtured its pointy little head to fruition.
The importance of today's track cannot be overstated. "War Pigs" opens up their second album Paranoid, probably the most heralded metal lp ever released. It is an antiwar anthem that can just as easily be head banged along to at a party. It is progressive in its scope, rocking across almost eight minutes of changing tempos, never letting up its aggressive stance until the sped-up tape outro. Rage and satanic references have never sounded so melodic. Sabbath would continue to produce genre-defining records (with or without OZZY!!!!!) for years to come after this, but it's still the moment where the promises of their debut turned into a cataclysmic sophomore classic.
Rest in peace Dio, but this is Sabbath. Always has been and always will be!
Cover pigs, start turning the war machine!!!!
The Beatles birthed heavy metal with "Helter Skelter".
Black Sabbath nurtured its pointy little head to fruition.
The importance of today's track cannot be overstated. "War Pigs" opens up their second album Paranoid, probably the most heralded metal lp ever released. It is an antiwar anthem that can just as easily be head banged along to at a party. It is progressive in its scope, rocking across almost eight minutes of changing tempos, never letting up its aggressive stance until the sped-up tape outro. Rage and satanic references have never sounded so melodic. Sabbath would continue to produce genre-defining records (with or without OZZY!!!!!) for years to come after this, but it's still the moment where the promises of their debut turned into a cataclysmic sophomore classic.
Rest in peace Dio, but this is Sabbath. Always has been and always will be!
Cover pigs, start turning the war machine!!!!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
JDIZZY's 365 # 297: Tonight
Tonight - Sibylle Baier (2006)
It's funny how great music sometimes refuses to lay unheard.
Today's track, like the rest of the album Colour Green, was recorded somewhere in between 1970-1973 by a former German singer/actress named Sibylle Baier. It is the only material she ever recorded and it was never released. She moved to America and became a wife and mother, with probably not a second thought about her music. In 2006, Mrs. Baier's son gave the tapes that make up the album to Dinosaur Jr.'s J Mascis, who flipped over their hauntingly beautiful sounds.It was released to near universal acclaim on the blogosphere that year, which is how I was directed to it.
Now listen up, 'cause I try not to say this without meaning every single syllable of it.
You need to purchase this disc.
It's gonna blow your mind.
Sibylle Baier could have been just as important as Vashti, Joni or Carly if she'd wanted to. Instead, she chose a quiet life of friends and family.
Fate had other plans.
Of course you covered this Kevin Barnes, because you are a genius!
It's funny how great music sometimes refuses to lay unheard.
Today's track, like the rest of the album Colour Green, was recorded somewhere in between 1970-1973 by a former German singer/actress named Sibylle Baier. It is the only material she ever recorded and it was never released. She moved to America and became a wife and mother, with probably not a second thought about her music. In 2006, Mrs. Baier's son gave the tapes that make up the album to Dinosaur Jr.'s J Mascis, who flipped over their hauntingly beautiful sounds.It was released to near universal acclaim on the blogosphere that year, which is how I was directed to it.
Now listen up, 'cause I try not to say this without meaning every single syllable of it.
You need to purchase this disc.
It's gonna blow your mind.
Sibylle Baier could have been just as important as Vashti, Joni or Carly if she'd wanted to. Instead, she chose a quiet life of friends and family.
Fate had other plans.
Of course you covered this Kevin Barnes, because you are a genius!
JDIZZY's 365 # 296: You Make It Easy
You Make It Easy - Air (1998)
Like Daft Punk before them, Air made us re-think our ideas on French music. Through the course of their debut long player, Moon Safari, the french retro electronic duo made us feel as if we were in the coolest 1960's version of a space age bachelor's pad, complete with Moogs, gently strummed acoustic guitars and the voices of sirens. This format gels perfectly on today's track, which features Beth Hirsch on vocals. For a genre noted for its cold shoulders, the song delivers a beautiful message of love that has not an ounce of ice on it. Air has continued to show the beating heart of analog machines throughout their career, and there really isn't one of their 9 releases that I can't recommend enough.
Here be wedding music for Mars.
Like Daft Punk before them, Air made us re-think our ideas on French music. Through the course of their debut long player, Moon Safari, the french retro electronic duo made us feel as if we were in the coolest 1960's version of a space age bachelor's pad, complete with Moogs, gently strummed acoustic guitars and the voices of sirens. This format gels perfectly on today's track, which features Beth Hirsch on vocals. For a genre noted for its cold shoulders, the song delivers a beautiful message of love that has not an ounce of ice on it. Air has continued to show the beating heart of analog machines throughout their career, and there really isn't one of their 9 releases that I can't recommend enough.
Here be wedding music for Mars.
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