Favorite Christmas songs or albums from your growing up years...
I always really enjoyed The Muppets. Still do!!
Favorite movies or Christmas specials from your growing up years...
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Muppet Christmas Carol
Mickey's Christmas Carol
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Frosty the Snowman
Favorite present(s) from your growing up years...
Books! I was always happy when I actually got some. I remember sitting off in a corner while family was visiting and reading whatever I got on the sly. My family was a bit slow understanding that was really what I wanted...
Favorite present(s) from recent years....
Okay, it is a bit materialistic, but my Canon Camera is my favourite gift over the last few years. And, books... Always books. lol
Favorite Christmas songs or albums currently...
December goes so fast! I have only really checked out the Pentatonix new album. Otherwise, it is the old favourites. For some reason I really like Amy Grant's Christmas albums and have been listening to them for years. Then, I still listen to the Muppets. lol
Favorite Christmas movies or specials currently...
I have not watched a single Christmas movie. December is going too fast. :(
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5 Books on Our Winter Reading List #AMonthofFaves2016
After really enjoying Age of Myth, I really want to read his older stuff. Thanks to audio sales, I have this trilogy and I am really excited to check it out. I have been saving it for winter listens.
I really liked this book and a couple of the sequels. I have been meaning to reread the early books and catch-up as I own all the audios. I am hoping to start this project in 2017 and it would be nice if it was a winter project of sorts.
Otherwise, 2017 is hopefully going to be a tackle the TBR pile year, so, while I have nothing set in concrete at the moment, I have hopes!
Best Changes We Made This Year
Less pressure. If I read, I read. If I blog, I blog. If my house is perfect, my house is perfect. Instead of looking at the big picture all the time, I just worry about the smaller things that make up the larger thing. And, it seems to be working out well. I read a lot this year and that included reading slumps. I blogged more than I have in a few years. My house is not perfect, but it has been cleaner to the point where there are moments where I don't feel like I should be cleaning instead of doing something fun. I still have stressful moments where I would love to accomplish more than I do, you can see it in my blog posts, but it is more relaxed than previous years and that is what matters!
5 Fave “New to Me” Author Discoveries or Audiobook Narrations This Year
Okay, so this was a recent Top Ten Tuesday topic and you can see my 10 picks on my post.
If I had to narrow the 10 to 5, it would be hard... Let's see...
Not really happy with this icon, but everything I used to use on Canva costs money now. :(
I am not someone that really pays attention to music, but way back in 2009 I used to do a Music Munday feature and I thought I would bring it back... We will see if I can think of enough to post about to make it a regular thing! The reason I am thinking about music today is because I decided to try out Idina Menzel's new CD. I know that she is very popular for Frozen, but I loved her in Rent and have kept my eye on her over the years. While her new CD is not my typical music, I did like it overall and enjoyed a couple of the songs.
The two I thought I would share are these:
And, if you have never seen her in Rent, check out this video!
(If anyone is bored and better at graphics than me, can you make me a nicer one? lol)
So, I was on Twitter on Friday when the Rolling Stone magazine released their list of the 100 Best Songs of 2013. I don't really listen to new music, so I thought it would be fun to work my way through the list and see what the best songs of the year were. So far I don't really find that I missed much. This is the first 30 songs, though, so that hopefully means they get better! 100 - 'Shot at the Night' by The Killers: Thoughts: I have heard of The Killers before, but never really listened to them. I was actually expecting a completely different sound from a band called The Killers. The song was actually catchy in its own way. I didn't mind it.
99 - 'Lecce, Leaving' by Lee Ranaldo and The Dust Thoughts: At first I didn't think I was going to like this at all, but as it got going it was actually not that bad. I have never really listened to Sonic Youth. Maybe it is because I am meant to start listening when they have all gone solo? We will see.
98 - 'Your Life is a Lie' by MGMT Thoughts: Another group I have heard of, but never really listened to before. Not really anything amazing about the song. I didn't hate it. It was just okay.
97 - 'Wagon Wheel' by Darius Rucker Thoughts: This song! This might be the first time I have actually heard the original... I like this song and think I should see what else this singer has. It's a catchy song that I find myself singing along with just because it has been everywhere this year. That's not really a bad thing!
96 - 'C'mon Stimmung' by No Age Thoughts: Yeah, I hated this. They should hire themselves a real band and a real singer.
95 - 'Still Into You' by Paramore Thoughts: Turns out I have heard this song before. It is catchy and she can sing rather well. I am not sure I would run out and buy her CD, but so far it is one of my favourite songs off the list.
94 - 'Ohio' by Patty Griffin Thoughts: I just can't get into her singing with Robert Plant. It just doesn't work for me. She can sing and should sing alone... I don't get why Robert Plant is so famous, but I suppose the Led Zeppelin following is discovering her because of it.
93 - 'Ingenue' by Atoms for Peace Thoughts: The songs seem to be getting worse instead of better...
92 - 'Dream House' by Deafheaven Thoughts: Oh, my god! What the hell was that?
91 - 'Everything' by Nine Inch Nails Thoughts: Me: I hate Nine Inch Nails. After that song, though... Guy: At least it is real music. I still hate Nine Inch Nails.
90 - 'Avant Gardener' by Courtney Barnett Thoughts: She needs a little attitude... And a personality... Her back-up 'singers' are who she should emulate.
89 - 'The Outsiders' by Eric Church Thoughts: This is crazy! No wonder I don't listen to new music. That being said this is an improvement over many of them.
88: 'Stare at the Sun' by Eleanor Friedberger Thoughts: She's not bad and there are dogs in the video.
87 - 'Waxahatchee' by Brother Bryan Thoughts: Boring...
86 - 'My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark' by Fall Out Boy Thoughts: This is one of the best songs so far.
85 - 'Trying to be Cool' by Phoenix Thoughts: This was pretty cool. I will have to see more from them.
84 - 'Q.U.E.E.N. by Janelle Monae Thoughts: Not terrible!
83: 'God is Dead' by Black Sabbath Thoughts: I missed they even had a CD out. While I won't say I am a big fan of them, I do like a song here and there. This one wasn't terrible.
82: 'Treason! Animals' by Franz Ferdinand Thoughts: Well, I didn't hate it, but I also wasn't compelled to listen to the whole thing.
81 - 'Feds Watching' by 2 Chainz feat. Pharrell Thoughts: I hate rap...
80 - 'Hit Me' by Mystikal Thoughts: Seriously??? Next...
79 - 'Alive' by Empire of the Sun Thoughts: I was hopeful about this one, but what has happened to music??
78 - 'Victim of Love' by Charles Bradley Thoughts: Look! Real music!
77 - 'Tom Ford' by Jay-Z
Thoughts: Next!
76 - 'Bubble Butt' by Major Lazer (feat. Bruno Mars, 2 Chainz, Tyga & Mystic) Thoughts: um... I am not even sure what to say about this one.
75 - 'Shout it Out' by Mikal Cronin Thoughts: Just kind of 'meh' for me.
74 - 'Pusha Man' by Chance the Rapper feat Nate Fox and Liki K Thoughts: Another reason why I don't listen to new music.
73 - 'Chamakay' by Blood Orange Thoughts: I had high hopes when this one started, but nope, not for me.
72 - 'Sirens' by Pearl Jam Thoughts: I have heard this song before actually. One of few on this list I can say that about! I don't mind Pearl Jam, but I don't like the singer...
71 - 'Old Love/New Love' by Twin Shadow Thoughts: I am kind of losing hope with this list...
I don't think it is a secret that I really like my 'neck of the woods'. It has some problems, but there are other aspects that make up for the negative. I have always been very big on supporting locals, though. I read the books, watch the movies and television shows, and of course listen to the music. I have gone though large periods of my life where it was basically my favourite thing ever. I just find they capture the spirit of the province and its people so well! I can relate to them.
One of my favourite bands is The Rankin Family. They started out as five. Then, the older brother died in a horrible car accident in Cape Breton. This brought them to four. About a month ago they lost one more to cancer and now there is three. I was devastated! When I look back on so many aspects of my life it is bands such as this that I remember. They shape my members and add a musical quality to them. So, I thought I would share some of my favourite songs by John Morris, Jimmy, Raylene, Cookie, and Heather Rankin. Their music will live on even if John Morris and Raylene were tragically taken so young. R.I.P.
This has always been one of my favourite Rankin songs. It is sung by Raylene and honestly, I like to think it is the motto of Nova Scotia. We have had many industries come and go, but we always manage to 'Rise Again'. I have faith that we will continue to do so.
A bit more up-beat. If memory serves me well this was the last album there were five of them.
I have always enjoyed this song by them. I loved this album! I used to play it obsessively. Well, actually it was a cassette tape... And it was so hard to find the song you wanted, so you would actually listening to every song. Nowadays I am terrible for skipping around...
So, no surprise this song is also from the same album:
I was such a nerd when I was a kid... I had this songs memorized, so I naturally was proud of myself for speaking Gaelic! I still have this song memorized... I have no idea what I am saying anymore, though. I also still want to speak this language... I love it!
The girls also had a Christmas CD. This is not the best recording... I saw this concert, though!
One sad thing about listening is I am always reminded of how all my Rankin CDs were stolen... I have slowly gathered them back, but I still don't have the Christmas one again. I was thinking maybe it would be a good gift for this year.
I am sitting here waiting for the cable guy, so I thought I would actually blog! Shocking, I know... I thought I would share some of my favourite songs that I am listening to at the moment.
I started with Blue Oyster Cult. I love 'Burning for You' by them. I think I have mentioned a few times on here that the charming comedian (aka 'The Guy') sings karaoke. This is my favourite song he has been singing lately. It is kind of for a corny reason, so instead of sharing why I am just going to share the song:
And, well, actually... Here is the cc singing it. I recorded it one time with my phone:
After that, I decided to listen to some Styx. With Styx I either like them, like this song, or hate them, like 'Mr Roboto'. The song is 'Boat on the River'. It is not as well known as some of their other songs, but it is a great song!
And, I know that most of you don't like Rush, but have you ever heard the duet they did with Max Webster? The song is called 'Battle Scar' and I thought it was really great. I wish a video existed of the actual concert, but this is the song:
(Sorry Debi, but Rich might like it... This is the song I was going to send you for him and still haven't...)
Moving on...
I thought I would include a newer song because most of this so far has been the 70's and 80's. Heather has been sharing music lately on her blog and got me listening to Escala. Here is 'Palladio' by them. It is one of my favourite songs.
It is too bad they only seem to have one CD because they are very talented.
I think I will end this with The Eagles. We watched one of their concerts the other night and they have been on my mind lately. I was newly impressed by their harmonies as I am each time I listen to them.
My favourite Eagle is Timothy B Schmit. I have never really listened to his solo stuff, but it is not-surprisingly really good!
He is really good at harmonies, but he is also really good when he once in a while sings lead with The Eagles:
So, there you have it, some songs I enjoy. What are some songs that you enjoy?
One of my favourite ways to experience poetry is through music. And, I am the sort that actually pays attention to what they are. There are some songs that are insanely popular and I just don't get how when you listen to the terrible things that the lyrics say. When I met the guy we went on a road trip and he was playing this band called Rush. I had heard of them, but never really paid a lot of attention to them before. Initially, I wasn't very impressed. But, we had my car and he left their CD in there. I am terrible about changing what I am listening to, so I wound up driving around listening to Rush and they slowly grew on me. Neil Peart, the drummer, has written many of the lyrics and he is also an author. I enjoy both and thought I would share some of the lyrics to my favourite Rush songs for my Poetry post this month.
"The Trees"
There is unrest in the forest
There is trouble with the trees
For the maples want more sunlight
And the oaks ignore their pleas
The trouble with the maples
(And they're quite convinced they're right)
They say the oaks are just too lofty
And they grab up all the light
But the oaks can't help their feelings
If they like the way they're made
And they wonder why the maples
Can't be happy in their shade
There is trouble in the forest
And the creatures all have fled
As the maples scream 'Oppression!'
And the oaks just shake their heads
So the maples formed a union
And demanded equal rights
'The oaks are just too greedy
We will make them give us light'
Now there's no more oak oppression
For they passed a noble law
And the trees are all kept equal
By hatchet, axe and saw
"Freewill"
There are those who think that life has nothing left to chance
A host of holy horrors to direct our aimless dance
A planet of play things
We dance on the strings
Of powers we cannot perceive
'The stars aren't aligned
Or the gods are malign...'
Blame is better to give than receive
[Chorus:]
You can choose a ready guide in some celestial voice
If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice
You can choose from phantom fears and kindness that can kill
I will choose a path that's clear
I will choose freewill
There are those who think
That they were dealt a losing hand
The cards were stacked against them
They weren't born in Lotusland
All preordained
A prisoner in chains
A victim of venomous fate
Kicked in the face
You can't pray for a place
In heaven's unearthly estate
[Chorus]
Each of us
A cell of awareness
Imperfect and incomplete
Genetic blends
With uncertain ends
On a fortune hunt that's far too fleet
[Chorus]
"Red Sector A"
All that we can do is just survive
All that we can do to help ourselves is stay alive
Once again I am slack on my music posts, but I have returned! This week I once again chose five songs off Ana's list and five songs off Vanessa's list using Random.org.
From Ana's List I Listened to:
27 - 'Summer on the Westhill' by Kings of Convenience
39 - 'Instant Street' by dEUS
21 - 'Let Down' by Radiohead
37 - 'Samson' by Regina Spektor
50 - 'Killing All the Flies' by Mogwai
'Summer on the Westhill' by Kings of Convenience
Thoughts: This is a quiet song. It's actually great for listening to in the background while you are doing something else or when you want to listening to a more meditative type of music. I actually really liked it more and more as I listened to it. I followed along with the lyrics and they are well written, too. It really is just an all around peaceful song.
'Instant Street' by dEUS
Thoughts: Unfortunately the only not live version of this song on YouTube has the end cut off. But, you get the idea of the song. I really liked it. It is actually getting catchy the more I listen to it.
'Let Down' by Radiohead
Thoughts: I actually went through a Radiohead stage at one point, so I was familiar with this song to begin with. I do like them, so I am not entirely sure why I stopped listening to them. This was another quiet song, but a good one. Once again I listened to it and followed along with the lyrics. (Well, sort of. Casey needed attention and then she knocked over her water dish. I listen to the songs off and on over the course of about two weeks, but then I pay close attention to them while watching YouTube videos in order to write up the posts.)
'Samson' by Regina Spektor
Thoughts: I really like both this song and the video. You should definitely check them out!
'Killing All the Flies' by Mogwai
Thoughts: This song is instrumental. I am not usually a huge fan of instrumental stuff, but I really liked this.
From Vanessa's List I Listened To:
45 - 'The Model' by Kraftwerk
117 - 'You and Whose Army' by Radiohead
93 - 'Jesus Built my Hotrod' by Ministry
95 - 'Walk' by Pantera
21 - 'I Wanna Be Your Dog' by The Stooges
'The Model' by Kraftwerk
Thoughts: This is an older song, but if you read the lyrics you can easily still compare them to right now. They still fit. It is not an amazing song, but it is good in its simplicity.
'You and Whose Army' by Radiohead
Thoughts: I thought it was funny how Radiohead was on both lists this week. I actually knew this song better than the one Ana suggested. I am not sure why. It has been a long time since I paid a lot of attention to Radiohead, so they are a distant memory until I listen to them again. (Apparently the lyrics are wrong in this video, but not enough to take away from anything.) And, apparently this was in a movie. That's probably why I know it better.
'Jesus Built my Hotrod' by Ministry
Thoughts: I just don't know on this one. One on the one hand I am not drawn to it, but on the other hand it is catchy. Does that make any sense to anyone? I couldn't entirely make out everything he was saying so I looked the lyrics up. It's an interesting song...
'Walk' by Pantera
Thoughts: Yep, so Pantera. I sort of cringed when I saw this on the list because I have heard this song before and I was never a huge fan... But, I was a dutiful list follower and when this song came up I listened to it again. It's not HORRIBLE, but I still can't picture me rushing out to listen to more from them... What I have been thinking about is what the song is really about. I was browsing through the comments while I was listening to it and people were saying it promotes aggression, fighting, etc... I don't get it. It says 'Respect' and actually says to walk away... How does that promote fighting? Did I get the meaning wrong? Please don't tell me that head-banging-type music is what promotes that stuff because that is just silly. I might not be a huge fan, but even I don't think that... Thoughts?
'I Wanna Be Your Dog' by The Stooges
Thoughts: I had heard this song before. Joan Jett also does a version that I am familiar with. Yep, music trivia from me of all people! Both versions are catchy.
The Once Upon a Time challenge has started, so my reading is moving in that direction. It has mostly been for the month of March, but now it is my genre of choice. I am hoping to read lots and lots of it. I want to take advantage of it to clean off my bookshelves a bit. I own plenty of books that fit the criteria. The post for my reading pool only scrapped the top of the pile. If you haven't signed up for the Once Upon a Time challenge you should do so!
On another note, did you see the new Walk off the Earth video? It's really creative:
Challenge News
I read Hot Mama and Jinx by Jennifer Estep. My post on the trilogy will up tomorrow. I also read Dragonsong by Anne McCaffrey. Then for the short story portion I read 'Hunting Kat' and 'Kat' by Kelley Armstrong.
Weekly Reads
My post on this book will be up tomorrow. (Personal Copy)
This was an interesting comic book read. I don't love the series, but it was a fun diversion. (Library)
I saw this on the e-book site the other day and decided I need to read some Kelley Armstrong. It is part of her young adult series that I really need to get back around to reading while I wait for the new Women of the Otherworld book. (Personal - e-book)
'Kat' by Kelley Armstrong. I found out about this story because of Armstrong's short story collection. It is the prequel to 'Hunting Kat', so it is better to read it the other way around. It is available on her website. I really like Kat.
This book will also be reviewed tomorrow. (Personal - e-book)
I have owned several books by Anne McCaffrey for a while, but I haven't really read much from her. I decided to start with this trilogy and I enjoyed this first book. I am looking forward to where the series goes next.
This book was on NetGalley and I decided to see what it was all about. It was actually a lot of fun! I would be tempted to read the rest of the series. (Review Copy)
What Are You Listening to Wednesday is a Meme started by Dolce Bellezza.
Sorry about the double-posting today. I didn't want to skip a week with the music as I have all ready listened to the songs and taken notes. As I did 2 weeks ago, I listened to 5 songs off Ana's list and 5 songs off of Vanessa's list. I used Random.org to select them.
From Vanessa's List I Listened to:
98 - 'Doll Parts' by Hole
24 - 'Up Around the Bend' by CCR
12 - 'Venus in Furs' by The Velvet Underground
73 - 'The Killing Moon' by Echo & the Bunnymen
52 - 'Voulez Vous' by ABBA
'Doll Parts' by Hole:
Thoughts: I have heard Hole before because I remember Vanessa listening to them. I never really minded them, but I never set out to listen to them on my own either. This is probably the first time I have heard anything by them in about 10 years or more and I didn't mind the experience. I actually like this song. I am not so sure they would be a band I listened to all the time, but if they were to come up on a music player I wouldn't mind. I think at some point this year I am going to refresh my memory of other songs by them.
'Up Around the Bend' by CCR:
Thoughts: CCR is one of my favourite bands ever. I have one of their greatest hits albums, so listening to this song was a breeze because it was on it of course. I always enjoy an excuse to listening to their music, so I was happy to have this song on my list. One of their best!
'Venus in Furs' by The Velvet Underground
Thoughts: This song has an interesting beginning. And then the song overall has a very different sound to it. I found it a bit catchy. I have heard of The Velvet Underground before, but this was my first time listening to them as far as I remember. This different sound they have makes me curious about more of their stuff. My only quibble with this song is another lead singer with a bit of a flat voice, but it only really bothered me the first couple times. If you listen to it a few more times you start to see that his voice works.
'The Killing Moon' by Echo & the Bunnymen
Thoughts: When I listened to this song the first couple times I knew I knew it, but I couldn't place it. Sharing that observation with Vanessa revealed it is from the movie Donnie Darko. We watched that movie sometime in the last few months, so obviously the song was still in the back of my mind. This song has grown on me and I added it to my playlist so I can hear it once in a while. I tried listening to the CD it was off, but this was the only song that impressed me with the first run-through. I plan to listen again, though, and should be posting about it next Wednesday.
'Voulez Vous' by ABBA
Thoughts: I know who ABBA is and sometimes you can hear them played on the radio. I have probably heard most of their popular songs over the years, but I have never pursued them. That is not to even say they are bad. Their songs are catchy and they can sing rather well. That fact that their is an entire musical based around their music is saying something about the lasting power of their songs. A fun diversion.
From Ana's List I Listened To:
33 - 'Somewhere There's a Feather' by Nico
23 - 'Lost Verses' by Sun Kil Moon
29 - 'Listzomania' by Phoenix
31 - 'Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town' by Pearl Jam
47 - 'Wrapped Up in Book' by Belle & Sebastian
'Somewhere There's a Feather' by Nico
Thoughs: I am not crazy about Nico's voice, but I really like the song. I seem to be very critical of singers voices, huh? I think she could grow on me if I explored her a bit more, though. It is just different.
'Lost Verses' by Sun Kil Moon
Thoughts: In the beginning I thought I wouldn't mind this song, but I have to admit that every time I have listened to it I have found myself getting distracted and doing something else. I think it is just too long for me... I don't mind the singers voice or anything, though, so it could just be this one song. This band is on my list to explore a bit more. The reason I have started listening to CDs of the bands from this project is just because Ana (or Vanessa) love a song, doesn't mean I will. Or, I could listen to the CD and find something I love 10 times better even if I did like the song they chose.
'Listzomania' by Phoenix
Thoughts: This is another song I felt like I had heard before. Maybe on Satellite Radio? Anyway, I actually really liked this song. I don't know what is up with the video, though. I have listened to all those other songs with no problem, but I had to turn the volume up for this one. With the video it is not so obvious, but when I was listening to this song over the last two weeks I felt it ended rather abruptly.
'Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town' by Pearl Jam
Thoughts: Was this song in a movie? I just thought I remembered it playing in the background of something... The simple thing to say about this song is I have heard of Pearl Jam for years, but I have no idea what they sing. I have just never pursued them myself. I liked this song, though. Maybe I should have listened to them a while ago...
'Wrapped up in Books' by Belle & Sebastian
Thoughts: I have to admit that I am all for a song called 'Wrapped up in Books' and with a video taking place in a book store? This is a song after my own heart! That being said, Belle & Sebastian is not a band I have a huge reaction to overall. I don't hate this song, but at the same time it didn't blow me away. They are a quiet band, judging by this song, and you can't help having a quiet reaction to this song. If that makes any sense.
I have decided to use my lists from Vanessa and Ana every other week so I have plenty of time to pay attention to the songs. For the other weeks I am going to talk about other things I have been listening to or something that the previous weeks comments lead me to explore.
She and Him - Volume 1
First up, Vanessa and I were having a conversation the other day and it lead to her talking about the band She and Him. I have never heard of them before. The duo is made up of Zooey Deschanel and Matt Ward. I really like the movies that Zooey has made over the years, but her character in New Girl lead to me avoiding her for a bit. That show started out fun, but then she got annoying. Needless to say, I was not sure what to think of a band where she is the lead singer.
Vanessa posted 5 songs on her blog by them, so I started there and then got a copy of the first CD to get the full effect. After listening to the songs a bit, I am still not sure what I think of Zooey's voice. She's a bit flat and I am not entirely a huge fan of it. That being said, the songs are a lot of fun and feature many different sounds. The first song I listened to was 'Sentimental Heart'. When it first started I was considering giving up entirely, but then the song gets going and it sort of grows on you. I actually think that is the best way to describe the whole CD. I really like that the songs have a sixties feel to them. My favourite is probably 'Take it Back'.
Sea Change by Beck
Another thing I have decided is that just listening to one or two songs on a list is not really broadening my horizons. In order to really get the full effect I figured I should start listening to the CDs, too. Last week from Ana's list I listened to 'Lost Cause' by Beck. In the comments to my blog Vanessa mentioned it was off the CD Sea Change, so I decided to make it my first 'branching out' CD. I had heard of Beck before, but I have never really listened to him on my own. I think that 'Lost Cause' is my favourite song on the CD, actually. Ana chose well. As to the CD overall, my interest ebbed and flowed. Sometimes I was really impressed, but there were other songs that I found a bit boring. Overall it was good, though, and I plan to listen to more from Beck at a later date. Vanessa also posted some of her favourite songs by him on her blog. One of the other songs I enjoyed was 'End of the Day'.
What Are You Listening to Wednesday is a meme started by Dolce Bellezza.
This post is a bit late, but I decided to wait until I had the house to myself and could really concentrate. This week I am going to be posting about 10 songs. I listened to 5 songs off Ana's list and 5 songs off Vanessa's list. When I started this project I was just going through Ana's list in order, but decided that I was going to start using random.org to decide my choices for the week.
From Ana's list I listened to:
46 - 'Lost Cause' by Beck
25 - 'There is a Light That Never Goes Out' by The Smiths
32 - 'The Only Living Boy in New York' by Simon & Garfunkel
45 - 'Neighbourhood #2' by The Arcade Fire
37 - 'The Jeep Song' by The Dresden Dolls
'Lost Cause' by Beck:
Thoughts: I have quickly discovered with Ana's songs it is as much about listening to the songs as paying attention to the lyrics. I always try to make sure to both listen to the song and, thanks to YouTube, familiarize myself with the lyrics. I have heard Beck before, but I was not familiar with this song. I actually really liked it. I wasn't sure with the first listen, but as I listened it grew on me. And, I think getting a feeling for the lyrics was a benefit. A keeper.
'There is a Light That Never Goes Out' by The Smiths
Thoughts: This was actually on my list to listen to before I changed my methods, so I had been listening to it for a while. I was all set for a week and then didn't get a chance to post. I think this song is my favourite off the list for this week. I have to say that following Ana's list has been hard for me because we actually listen to entirely different music, but I am starting to benefit from it. In the beginning I was not sure this was a good idea, but now I am so happy that I am sticking with it. I am starting to change my ways and find new music to explore. Also, this song makes me think I need to watch the movie 500 Days of Summer.
'The Only Living Boy in New York' by Simon and Garfunkel
Thoughts: I was very happy to see Simon & Garfunkel on this list. I actually quite like them and I had this song to begin with. I went through a period at the end of last year where I was listening to them while cooking supper. It was a nice trip down memory lane. I actually consider a few other of their songs more my favourites, but I do really enjoy this one. They are very talented and Simon and Garfunkel: The Concert in Central Park is one of my favourite concerts ever!
'Neighbourhood #2' by The Arcade Fire
Thoughts: Well, for those of you that do not know, Arcade Fire is a band from Montreal, Canada. They had a really good year last year... maybe the year before... and we were hearing about them all over the place. I have to admit I didn't quite get it when I heard them perform. I am still not so sure that I get the big deal over them. They do write very interesting lyrics, someone on YouTube calls them prophets, but they didn't really call to me at all. It is not even as though this song is bad. I just feel like I am missing something. I am thinking I might have to listen to them more. Maybe get a CD by them? (Saying that, I am humming this song at the moment, so maybe they are growing on me...) (I have to say that they do write some very good lyrics. I just got distracted browsing some of them...)
'The Jeep Song' by The Dresden Dolls
I wasn't able to find a decent video of this song... If anyone has one, please share the link!
Thoughts: Well, first of all I had no idea there was a song called 'The Jeep Song'. I had heard of the Dresden Dolls before, but I was actually saying the other day that I wasn't really aware of what they sang. When they came up as a song choice for this week I was curious. So, I listened to the song and I couldn't help saying 'Seriously?'. Then, I looked up the lyrics and had a similar reaction. I can't believe this song actually works, but it does. The Dresden Dolls are a bit of an acquired taste, I think, but they are worth exploring a bit more.
Overall Thoughts: I actually didn't mind any of these songs. I am not sure if they will all become favourites, but none of them really bothered me. I actually think I might explore some more songs by each artist. If anyone has any suggestions please share them in the comments. Thanks Ana!
From Vanessa's List I Listened to:
112 - 'Between the Bars' by Elliott Smith
31 - 'Search and Destroy' by Iggy and the Stooges
48 - 'Being Boiled' by The Human League
57 - 'Heartattack & Vine' by Tom Waits
89 - 'Touch Me I'm Sick' by Mudhoney
'Between the Bars' by Elliott Smith
Thoughts: So, apparently Ana and Vanessa are Elliott Smith fans. I had never heard of him before, but I listened to 'Waltz #2' back on week 10. Unfortunately there were many other things on my mind that week, so he sort of fell through the cracks. I was happy to have the chance to go back and explore him a bit because he did spark some interest with that song. He is very different than what I normally I listen to. I tend to listen to livelier music, so I am slower to appreciate him than some. I have to say, though, I am really starting to enjoy him. I am planning to explore more from him. Thanks to Ana and Vanessa for bringing him to my attention!
'Search and Destroy' by Iggy and the Stooges
Thoughts: Well, this was quite the contrast after listening to Elliott Smith. I had heard The Stooges before, but I am not so sure this was one of the songs. Punk is another type of music that I have not entirely come to love. I listened to this song several times, but it just didn't grow on me. That being said, I browsed other songs by them and I do like a few here and there. That's saying something!
'Being Boiled' by The Human League
Thoughts: I had never heard of this band before. This song is catchy in its own way. I enjoyed it for the most part and am curious about more from them. They actually seem to be still around. (And, upon a bit of exploring I have heard some of their songs before. I am bad with names.)
'Heartattack & Vine' by Tom Waits
Thoughts: I had heard of Tom Waits before and this song, so I was happy to re-listen. It had been ages since I heard it. I wasn't even entirely sure how it went any more, but I have been listening to it off and on for the last little while to refresh my memory. I wanted to concentrate on the songs that were on the actual list, but I think I am going to get one of his CDs. Thanks for reminding of him, Vanessa!
'Touch Me I'm Sick' by Mudhoney
Thoughts: As far as I know I have never heard of Mudhoney before. They do illustrate the importance of listening over and over again, though; because when I listened to them the first time I was not quite sure. I actually like it, though. It is apparently a song that grows on you with time. I actually find it almost catchy once it gets going.
Overall Thoughts: Well, Vanessa, I have come a long way with my music tastes. I remember when we were younger I didn't always get what you were listening to, and vice versa, but I would like to think I have progressed very well. In junior high I probably would have been trying to think of a polite way to get out of this music project, but instead I am very excited about it. Actually, between this list and your blog I have discovered you listen to a lot of music I never pictured you listening to. You have surprised me. And, I didn't really start listening to bands like Iron Maiden until I was older, so I have a very different taste in music now than I did before. I look forward to the next batch of songs!
Off and on for the last little while, I have been listening to music provided for Debi by Ana. I still intend to get back to doing that, but I also have my own list. My friend Vanessa from A Journey Through My Music Collection made me my own list, though. She went through the book 1001 Songs You Must Hear Before You Die and made me a list from there.
The list is as follows:
1. Hank Williams – “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” (1949)
2. Little Richard – “Tutti Frutti” (1955)
3. Johnny Cash – “I Walk the Line” (1956)
4. Roy Orbison – “In Dreams” (1963)
5. The Ronettes – “Be My Baby” (1963)
6. The Kinks – “You Really Got Me” (1964)
7. The Supremes – “Stop! In the Name of Love” (1965)
8. The Who – “My Generation” (1965)
9. Beach Boys – “God Only Knows” (1966)
10. Love – “7 and 7 Is” (1966)
11. The Velvet Underground – “Heroin” (1967)
12. The Velvet Underground – “Venus in Furs” (1967)
13. The Jimi Hendrix Experience – “Fire” (1967)
14. Love – “Alone Again Or” (1967)
15. Pink Floyd – “See Emily Play” (1967)
16. Procol Harum – “A Whiter Shade of Pale” (1967)
17. Cream – “Sunshine of Your Love” (1967)
18. Big Brother and the Holding Company – “Piece of My Heart” (1968)
19. The Jimi Hendrix Experience – “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” (1968)
20. The Band – “The Weight” (1968)
21. The Stooges – “I Wanna Be Your Dog” (1969)
22. MC5 – “Kick Out the Jams” (1969)
23. BB King – “The Thrill is Gone” (1969)
24. Creedence Clearwater Revival – “Up Around the Bend” (1970)
25. Black Sabbath – “War Pigs” (1970)
26. David Bowie – “The Man Who Sold the World” (1970)
27. Neil Young – “Oh, Lonesome Me” (1970)
28. Simon and Garfunkel – “The Only Living Boy in New York” (1970)
29. Big Star – “Thirteen” (1972)
30. Dolly Parton – “Jolene” (1973)
31. Iggy and the Stooges – “Search and Destroy” (1973)
32. Dolly Parton – “I Will Always Love You” (1974)
33. Bob Dylan – “Tangled Up in Blue” (1975)
34. Bruce Springsteen – “Born to Run” (1975)
35. Blue Oyster Cult – “(Don’t Fear) the Reaper” (1976)
36. ABBA – “Dancing Queen” (1976)
37. Ramones – “Blitzkrieg Bop” (1976)
38. The Modern Lovers – “Roadrunner” (1976)
39. Kraftwerk – “Trans-Europe Express” (1977)
40. Kate Bush – “Wuthering Heights” (1977)
41. Television – “Marquee Moon” (1977)
42. Richard Hell and the Voidoids – “Blank Generation” (1977)
43. Pere Ubu – “Non-Alignment Pact” (1978)
44. The Jacksons – “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” (1978)
45. Kraftwerk – “The Model” (1978)
46. Buzzcocks – “Ever Fallen In Love” (1978)
47. Siouxsie and the Banshees – “Hong Kong Garden” (1978)
48. The Human League – “Being Boiled” (1978)
49. The B-52s – “Rock Lobster” (1978)
50. The Clash – “London Calling” (1979)
51. Joy Division – “Transmission” (1979)
52. ABBA – “Voulez Vous” (1979)
53. The Cure – “Boys Don’t Cry” (1979)
54. Dead Kennedys – “California Uber Alles” (1979)
55. The Slits – “Typical Girls” (1979)
56. ABBA – “The Winner Takes It All” (1980)
57. Tom Waits – “Heartattack and Vine” (1980)
58. Joy Division – “Dead Souls” (1980)
59. Killing Joke – “Wardance” (1980)
60. Motorhead – “Ace of Spades” (1980)
61. Talking Heads – “Once in a Lifetime”(1980)
62. Ultravox – “Vienna” (1980)
63. Kraftwerk – “Computer Love” (1981)
64. The Specials – “Ghost Town” (1981)
65. Grandmaster Flash & the Furious Five – “The Message” (1982)
66. Venom – “Black Metal” (1982)
67. Yazoo – “Situation” (1982)
68. David Bowie – “Let’s Dance” (1983)
69. The Smiths – “This Charming Man” (1983)
70. Run-DMC – “It’s Like That” (1983)
71. New Order – “Blue Monday” (1983)
72. Iron Maiden – “The Trooper” (1983)
73. Echo and the Bunnymen – “The Killing Moon” (1984)
74. Meat Puppets – “Plateau” (1984)
75. The Replacements – “I Will Dare” (1984)
76. The Smiths – “How Soon Is Now?” (1984)
77. Prince and the Revolution – “Purple Rain” (1984)
78. Kate Bush – “Running Up that Hill” (1985)
79. Big Black – “Kerosene” (1986)
80. Slayer – “Raining Blood” (1986)
81. Hüsker Dü – “Don’t Want To Know if You Are Lonely” (1986)
82. The Church – “Under the Milky Way” (1987)
83. The Cure – “Just Like Heaven” (1987)
84. The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl – “Fairytale of New York” (1987)
85. Depeche Mode – “Never Let Me Down Again” (1987)
86. Dinosaur Jr. – “Freak Scene” (1988)
87. Pixies – “Where Is My Mind” (1988)
88. Fugazi – “Waiting Room” (1988)
89. Mudhoney – “Touch Me I’m Sick” (1988)
90. Metallica – “One” (1988)
91. Pixies – “Monkey Gone to Heaven” (1989)
92. Sonic Youth – “Kool Thing” (1990)
93. Ministry – “Jesus Built My Hotrod” (1991)
94. Rage Against the Machine – “Killing in the Name” (1992)
95. Pantera – “Walk” (1992)
96. Bruce Springsteen – “Streets of Philadelphia” (1993)
97. The Breeders – “Cannonball” (1993)
98. Hole – “Doll Parts” (1994)
99. Pavement – “Cut Your Hair” (1994)
100. Nirvana – “All Apologies” (1994)
101. Nine Inch Nails – “Hurt” (1994)
102. Soundgarden – “Black Hole Sun” (1994)
103. Stone Temple Pilots – “Interstate Love Song” (1994)
104. Jeff Buckley – “Hallelujah” (1994)
105. Beastie Boys – “Sabotage” (1994)
106. Portishead – “Sour Times” (1994)
107. Pulp – “Common People” (1995)
108. Eels – “Novocaine For the Soul” (1996)
109. Fugees – “Ready or Not” (1996)
110. Beck – “Devil’s Haircut” (1996)
111. Chemical Brothers – “Block Rockin’ Beats” (1997)
112. Elliott Smith – “Between the Bars” (1997)
113. The Cardigans – “Erase/Rewind” (1998)
114. Aimee Mann – “Save Me” (1999)
115. At the Drive In – “One Armed Scissor” (2000)
116. Daft Punk – “One More Time” (2000)
117. Radiohead – “You & Whose Army” (2001)
118. White Stripes – “Fell In Love With a Girl” (2001)
119. Tool – “Schism” (2001)
120. Nirvana – “You Know You’re Right” (2002)
121. Modest Mouse – “Float On” (2004)
122. Foo Fighters – “Best of You” (2005)
123. Robert Plant and Alison Krauss – “Please Read the Letter” (2007)
124. Robyn with Kleerup - “With Every Heartbeat” (2007)
125. Fleet Foxes – “Mykonos” (2008)
126. MGMT – “Time to Pretend” (2008)
Looking at this list, here are some songs I thought about:
The Roy Orbison song on the list made me think of this one:
The Metallica song 'One' reminded me of one of the few songs I like by U2:
Casey and her mouse. She absolutely adores these type of mice. She keeps losing them, though. When I finally broke down and gave her a new one (these are pricey) she woke me up at 5:30 in the morning with the mouse in her mouth.
But, she can play cute and sweet so easily no one would ever believe she is capable of that, right?
Apparently judging by my post yesterday people have never heard The Civil Wars before. This is a real shame! Here are three four of their songs for you to enjoy and then go listen to more! They just sound so amazing together and the girl, wow, can she sing. And she makes it seem so natural!!
Carl just recently discovered them and posted about his experience here.
In my household this week we have been listening to needtobreathe. I mentioned them last week, but since then I got a copy of the CD The Outsiders. The guy has even been listening to them. I am pretty sure I have heard them sing before, but neither of us can place why they are familiar.
The guy considers this his favourite off the album:
As for me, I think I like this song the best:
They have three other albums that I look forward to listening to at some point. What have you been listening to this week?
Bomb Girls - This is a Canadian mini-series set during WWII. It is 6 parts and we watched the first two the other night just to see what it is like. It is actually rather interesting. I am just a bit disappointed that it is a Canadian show and it about the American war experience, but that is pretty much to be expected. I do still enjoy shows that centre around the female experience and the women that built the bombs during the second World War.
The Muppet Show: Season 1 - I am trying this again. I have yet to make it to the end because of various problems, so I am determined to this time around. I have watched about 5 episodes lately.
Star Trek: The Next Generation - We were hooked up with the seasons of this show. The guy has been skipping around watching favourite episodes, but I want to eventually go back and start from the beginning. I have always figured I have seen every episode, but I am curious if I have missed any. We actually watched the very last episode last night because I always rather enjoyed it and the guy had never seen it before.
And, just because this is a bit boring, here are some more Walk off the Earth videos:
Debi at still with nothing of importance is doing this project where she had some of her favourite people send her lists of books she should read, movies she should watch, songs she should listen to, etc. Ana, from things mean a lot, sent her a list of songs that I will be working my way through over the coming Wednesdays. The meme itself is hosted at Dolce Bellezza.
Finally, I am back to the list...
The Songs for This Week Are:
The Butcher by Owen Pallet
Rambling Man by Laura Marling
Behold! The Nightmare by The Smashing Pumpkins
Friends as Lovers by Zwan
Waltz #2 by Elliott Smith
'The Butcher' by Owen Pallet
Do you want to know what is really cool about Owen Pallet? He is Canadian and he recorded a CD with the Nova Symphony Orchestra. For those thinking 'um, okay'; I live in Nova Scotia. I had never heard of him or the concert before, but I was intrigued and had to listen to it. As a result the song itself got a bit pushed aside.... This is not my favourite song necessarily, but it is the only video I could find where the music at least is Pallett and the Symphony.
Then, we move on to 'Rambling Man' by Laura Marling. I actually really enjoyed this song and consider it my favourite off the list itself. I am going to explore Laura Marling more.
I had heard The Smashing Pumpkins song before. The only album I ever owned was Adore and this song was on it. I used to like Bill Corgan's voice, but I think I have moved away from it over the years. That is not to say I don't still enjoy his music to a point and I enjoyed 'Behold! The Nightmare' back when I heard it for the first time. Unfortunately I couldn't find a video to share that wasn't terrible, but it was a good song!
Then, there is Zwan. I know a few people that went to see them back when they toured back in the early 2000's. I had forgotten all about them until I got to their song on the list. I did listen to them a bit back when they came out, but they were not a 'go to' band. Still, this is a decent song by them that I hadn't heard in ages and probably never would have thought about without this project. Billy Corgan is a WAY better writer than a musician...
Lastly, we have 'Waltz #2' by Elliott Smith. I did like this song, but between discovering Owen Pallett's Nova Scotia connection, rediscovering The Smashing Pumpkins and Zwan, and really enjoying 'Rambling Man' it sort of fell to the wayside this week. You should still listen to it!
I was going to resume my music project, but I just haven't had a chance. You see, the guy is addicted to YouTube at the moment. He discovered some videos from the concert Night of the Prom which is held every year. We had never heard of it before. So, that's what I have been listening to for days now. I have to admit I haven't been very interested in my own music as I seek out a quiet place. The videos are really awesome, though, so I am going to share some with you instead of my regular posting. I hope you check them out and enjoy them as much as we have.
Night of the Proms is a series of concerts held yearly in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Poland. Regularly there are also shows in France, Spain, Austria, Switzerland and Luxembourg. The concerts consist of a combination of pop music and popular classical music (often combined) and various well-known musicians and groups usually participate. (From Wikipedia)
This is the guys favourite of the lot. I have to admit it is pretty good, too.
I think that this video is really fun, so I enjoyed it immensely:
We both really like the Pointer Sisters:
I have to admit I have never really listened to this song that many times before, but I really enjoyed this video:
Another one that we both enjoy:
And, lastly, the reason we started this musical journey in the first place was a conversation about how at least one of the members of Cutting Crew was Canadian:
There are so many more to explore, though. I strongly suggest that you do so and then share your experiences. We have tried many different searches but I am sure there are many that we haven't watched yet. And now, I want to go to one of these concerts...
I haven't really watched any of them but I had to do a bit of a happy dance about Once Upon a Time returning this weekend! I am really excited because I have seen tid-bits here and there about what to expect in the coming episodes.
Older Shows
Bones - I started season 4. I love this show. It is really nerdy goodness. I wanted to watch more but we had a bit of technological problems and it sort of killed most of our watching recently. I am hoping to get back to it this week, though.
Big Bang Theory - I watched a bit of the 4th season of this show, too. It really is the funniest show on television, but I am a bit unreliable about actually watching it. It was also on as a marathon around Christmas so we saw lots of the older episodes. I love Sheldon I must admit. But really, the whole cast works really well together.
Movies
I call them movies, but really they are concerts. In the last little bit we have watched an Alice Cooper concert, a John Lennon tribute concert, and a Rush concert. We always get a few for Christmas. They were all really good. The John Lennon concert annoyed me because apparently John only had one child. It is really unfortunate that everything is centred around his one wife and nothing else seems to matter. Apparently he also didn't belong to this very famous band because the pictures skipped from before to happy days with his wife. That time in-between just didn't happen. Otherwise it was enjoyable! The Alice Cooper is entertaining just because it is Alice Cooper... And the Rush was my favourite, but it is sad that Geddy Lee can't sing the same way any more.
Star Wars Episode 5: The Empire Strikes Back: I educated the guy on these movies, but we never finished. I can't believe he had never seen them before! We only made it through part of this movie before, so we finally watched the rest so we can move on to my favourite...
