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Wednesday, December 17, 2008

The '59 Sound

I adore this song.
The first time I ever heard it was on Steven's Untitled Rock Show on Fuse; which, I'm pleased to announce, seems to be airing new and ever-amusing episodes after a scary time in which I thought my favorite show on television may be cancelled.
The video was first aired on the show months ago. Steven, the host of the show (gee, really?) declared this one of his favorite songs from an up-and-coming artist, and seemed to anticipate the song's popularity far before it ever hit the radio stations near me.
These days, it's rare not to hear The '59 Sound over your stereo if you have the radio set on my local alternative station. Being that the alternative station is indeed my favorite, I have heard a lot of this track lately.
And yet, it just never gets old. The Gaslight Anthem have recorded a huge first single. There's so much raw emotion in this track; the vocals and instrumentals are simple and honest. The lyrics, if you take a minute to really listen, will break your heart - they speak a story of memories, good and bad, regrets and thanksgiving that come with our final days in this world. However, despite an upsetting concept, this song has a hopeful, reminiscent overtone. It really is a bittersweet listen, but one that makes you feel better once the final notes fade away.
As a whole, this is one that I just can't seem to get enough of. I look forward to hearing more by this band.
This is The '59 Sound by The Gaslight Anthem. Enjoy :)

The Gaslight Anthem - The '59 Sound Official Music Video



The '59 Sound
The Gaslight Anthem

Well, I wonder which song they're gonna play when we go;
I hope it's something quiet and minor and peaceful and slow.
When we float out into the ether, into the Everlasting Arms
I hope we don't hear Marley's chains we forged in life

'Cause the chains I been hearing now for most of my life ...

Did you hear the '59 sound coming through on Grandmama's radio?
Did you hear the rattling chains in the hospital walls?
Did you hear the old gospel choir when they came to carry you over?
Did you hear your favorite song one last time?

And I wonder, were you scared when the metal hit the glass?
See, I was playing a show down the road when your spirit left your body.
And they told me on the front lawn, "I'm sorry I couldn't go",
But I still know the song and the words and her name and the reasons

And I know 'cause we were kids and we used to hang ...

Did you hear the '59 sound coming through on Grandmama's radio?
Did you hear the rattling chains in the hospital walls?
Did you hear the old gospel choir when they came to carry you over?
Did you hear your favorite song one last time?

Young boys, young girls ...
Ain't supposed to die on a Saturday night ...

Did you hear the '59 sound coming through on Grandmama's radio?
Did you hear the rattling chains in the hospital walls?
Did you hear the old gospel choir when they came to carry you over?
Did you hear your favorite song one last time?

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Sing For Absolution

I love Muse. That without a doubt is very true. They are coming closer and closer to becoming my favorite band...music wise of course (My Chemical Romance and Blue October will always hold incredibly special places in my heart).

So, I was interested in finding some Muse tracks that I hadn't heard, and a few days ago I went on a Muse spree on youtube.
In the process I found one of the most amazing songs I've ever heard. "Sing For Absolution"

I don't know exactly how to describe this song, or how much I love it, and how much it touches me...or even why. There's something hauntingly beautiful about it, about the lyrics and the tune. Matt's voice is amazing. He's got one of those voices that just captivates, that ensnares, and empowers...I get shivers and just an overall "wow" feeling whenever I hear him sing. I totally understand how Stephanie Meyer found this band such an inspiration when writing the Twilight saga, you can't help but think of true love, and loss, fear, and longing when listening to this band. Sing For Absolution completely embodies all of that.

The music video is also something to behold. It's a very sci-fi setting. With great computer animation graphics...kinda remind me of the more epic scenes from the movie Titan A.E.

Anyway, I've found this song just brilliant. Of course...you have to form your own opinion.

Enjoy!


Sing For Absolution-Muse


-Lyrics-

lips are turning blue
a kiss that can't renew
I only dream of you
my beautiful

tiptoe to your room
a starlight in the gloom
I only dream of you
and you never knew

sing for absolution
I will be singing
falling from your grace

there's nowhere left to hide
in no one to confide
the truth runs deep inside
and will never die

lips are turning blue
a kiss that can't renew
I only dream of you
my beautiful

sing for absolution
I will be singing
falling from your grace

sing for absolution
I will be singing
falling from your grace

our wrongs remain unrectified
and our souls won't be exhumed

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Nightmare Revisited





Every few years Tim Burton, Danny Elfman, and team see it fit to re-issue "The Nightmare Before Christmas" soundtrack, and add a bonus CD with covers of all the song by current artists. This year was one of those years!

"The Nightmare Before Christmas" really is a classic. It was a movie that was ahead of it's time in stop motion animation technology. Not to mention it had an amazing score/soundtrack written and composed by master of movie music Danny Elfman.

The music is really what made the movie so magnificent. More than a decade later people still line up yearly to see the movie in theatres (in 3D), and kids (and adults too) sing along with the great songs.

Nightmare Revisited takes today's artists and gives us the songs we loved from the movie, with a twist.



The Track list
Coupled By My Opinion Of Each Song


1.Overture-DeVotchKa
[This track really got me. It's quite the opening. The style is almost Cirque Du Soleil. Very circus. An absolutely wonderful start to the CD!]

2.Opening-Danny Elfman
[This isn't that different than the original which was narrated by actor Patrick Stewart. I do think that Danny's voice has a very neat sound to it though, especially since he did Jack's vocals in the original]

3.This Is Halloween-Marilyn Manson
[Definitely a Manson track. Creepy as ever. Has some techno undertones, but sticks with the goth sound that Marilyn does so well.]

4.Jack's Lament-The All-American Rejects
[This isn't my favorite track, by any means. Tyson's voice seems a bit whiny for the song...not as good as it could have been.]

5.Doctor Finklestien/In The forest-Amiina
[This was really nice. There's a slightly Asian backbone to the song, and I love the deep strings (Bass I think?) that keep the beat. It also has a music box feel.]

6.What's This?-Flyleaf
[One of my favorite tracks on the CD. Flyleaf did an amazing job. The song is quite a bit slower and more melancholy than the original (and definitely more so than Fall Out Boy's cover from the last special edition!). Lacey's voice really shines in this song.]

7.Town Meeting Song-The Polyphonic Spree
[The beginning of this song was really cool, futuristic! Lol. Almost David Bowie's Space Oddity sounding. Actually, the whole song had a Bowie-esque sound to it. I liked how they changed the vocal melody...it's like a completely new song. Towards the middle it gets a bit Broadway sounding. It's really something new.]

8.Jack and Sally Montage-The Vitamin String Quartet
[Exactly the excellence you'd expect of Vitamin. Beautiful strings. I could listen to this over and over.]

9.Jack's Obsession-Sparklehorse
[Falsetto. That really sums it up lol. I will say though that the acoustic guitar is quite beautiful, as well as the vocal melody, which like in The Town Meeting Song was changed. There's the faint hint of something that could be a lullaby, maybe.]

10.Kidnap The Sandy Claws-Korn
[Classic Korn. Creepy, strange vocalizations, the whole nine yards.]

11.Making Christmas-Rise Against
[Love the electric guitar opening! And being a Rise Against fan, I'm kinda biased, but I'll say that I really liked this. Very hard-core. Love it.]

12.Nabbed-Yoshida Brothers
[Done in a very beautiful classical Japanese style, with a techno/dance twist. Really great.]

13.Oogie Boogie's Song-Bordrigo y Gabriella
[Spanish! It has that wonderful acoustic guitar flair you get from Spanish flamenco music.
This is the first track on the CD that takes a song that originally had vocals and made it instrumental.]

14.Sally's Song-Amy Lee
[What can I say other than gorgeous when describing Amy's voice? She just owned this song. It's haunting. I love the extra Goth she added to the song. Absolutely amazing, brilliant, beautiful!]

15.Christmas Eve Montage-Rjd2
[Electro. Fun. Christmas with it's own neat little spin. All I can say is it's way fun to listen to, and you can definitely dance to it!]

16.Poor Jack-Plain White T's
[I liked this one. Tom's voice really complimented the song, it's not very unlike the original Elfman version. This song really shows a side of Tom's voice I've never heard, he has quite a range. This exceeded my expectations. Really a good song.]

17.To The Rescue-Datarock
[More electro, techno, synth-pop, whatever-you-wanna-call-it. I'm also a Datarock fan, and I can say they did quite the job on this instrumental piece. Fun stuff.]

18.Finale/Reprise-Shiny Toy Guns
[I love how it starts with a almost "broken carousel" version of "Here Comes Santa Clause" with the guys in the band creepily whispering "la-la-la-la". Then it goes hard-core on us. They even through in a few "Phantom" style organ chords. Another curve, it turns into a very pretty ballad, with church style organs. Again, vocal melodies have been changed, but it's all for the better. The song is really great.]

19.Closing-Danny Elfman
[Same as opening really. Just the original piece narrated by Elfman instead of Stewart]

20.End Title-The Album Leaf
[A very clam, pretty, instrumental end to the CD. Kinda makes me that warm kind of sleepy when I hear it.]



Anyway, it's a great album with surprises around every corner. Be sure to get a listen! Truly a great album, and definitely the best so-far of the Nightmare remakes.

I'm going to share one of (because there's no possible way to fit all of them!) my favorite tracks, Flyleaf's version of "What's This?.

Enjoy!





What's This?-Flyleaf


Lyrics

What's this? What's this?
There's color everywhere
What's this?
There's white things in the air
What's this?
I can't believe my eyes
I must be dreaming
Wake up, Jack, this isn't fair
What's this?

What's this? What's this?
There's something very wrong
What's this?
There's people singing songs

What's this?
The streets are lined with
Little creatures laughing
Everybody seems so happy
Have I possibly gone daffy?
What is this?
What's this?

There's children throwing snowballs
instead of throwing heads
They're busy building toys
And absolutely no one's dead

There's frost on every window
Oh, I can't believe my eyes
And in my bones I feel the warmth
That's coming from inside

Oh, look
What's this?
They're hanging mistletoe, they kiss
Why that looks so unique, inspired
They're gathering around to hear a story
Roasting chestnuts on a fire
What's this?

What's this?
In here they've got a little tree, how queer
And who would ever think
And why?

They're covering it with tiny little things
They've got electric lights on strings
And there's a smile on everyone
So, now, correct me if I'm wrong
This looks like fun
This looks like fun
Oh, could it be I got my wish?
What's this?

Oh my, what now?
The children are asleep
But look, there's nothing underneath
No ghouls, no witches here to scream and scare them
Or ensnare them, only little cozy things
Secure them in their dreamland...

What's this?

The monsters are all missing
And the nightmares can't be found
And in their place there seems to be
Good feeling all around

Instead of screams, I swear
I can hear music in the air
The smell of cakes and pies
are absolutely everywhere

The sights, the sounds
They're everywhere and all around
I've never felt this good before
This empty place inside of me has been filling up
I simply cannot get enough

I want it, oh, I want it
Oh, I want it for my own
I've got to know
I've got to know
What is this place that I have found?
What is this?

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Cath...

I'm going to get this out there right now; I'm not a huge Death Cab for Cutie fan. I like some of their popular stuff (I Will Follow You Into The Dark, Soul Meets Body ...), but, as a whole? Not my favorite band.
But this song has simply captivated me.

Cath... is lovely in every way. The lyrics describe such an upsetting, bittersweet scenario; it's impossible not to sympathize with the character the song describes and her less-than-desirable situation. And the way this story is told, from a third person perspective, makes you feel as if you're stepping into the story, watching this scene play out - as if you're one of the people in the pews, whispering, "it won't last"; as if you're one of her friends, asking "what became of her".

Besides the powerful and heartbreaking lyrics, the instrumental melodies are quite impressive. The simple, yet effective, guitar which opens the song is probably my favorite part of the entire track, as far as instrumentals. Paired with the ticking symbol, the melody is catchy and keeps you tuned in for just a few bars, before the drums really kick in and you know the song has begun.

The only thing I don't like about this song is how quickly it seems to end. Clocking in at nearly four minutes, the track is not at all short; however, while you're listening, you get so drawn in to the storyline and the way the band presents it that you seem to loose track of time - until the same familiar guitar melody fades into the background of the final seconds of the song.

For a song with such a literal, straight-forward lyrical standpoint, I am surprised to find myself twisting the story in my own mind, discovering new ways to interpret the lyrics in a more figurative way. As a whole, I simple adore this song, and whether you see it from a literal or figurative standpoint, it's really just a one-of-a-kind track.

This is Cath... by Death Cab for Cutie.

Death Cab For Cutie - Cath... Official Music Video



Cath...
Death Cab for Cutie

Cath, she stands with a well-intentioned man
But she can't relax with his hand on the small of her back
And as the flashbulbs burst, she holds a smile
Like someone would hold a crying child

And soon everybody will ask what became of you
'Cause your heart was dying fast, and you didn't know what to do

Cath, it seems that you live in someone else's dream
In a hand-me-down wedding dress
Where the things that could have been all repressed
But you said your vows, and you closed the door
On so many men who would have loved you more

And soon everybody will ask what became of you
'Cause your heart was dying fast, and you didn't know what to do

The whispers that it won't last roll up and down the pews
But if their hearts were dying that fast,
They'd have done the same as you
And I'd have done the same as you.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Lacrymosa

As I've mentioned a few times in the past my musical taste has stemmed most predominately from my upbringing in a family that loves classical music, and through listening to the classics during my ballet training. So it goes without saying that I lean toward bands and artists with classical backgrounds. I especially lean toward those with symphonic and orchestral sounds. So many of my favorite bands and artists are those like Yngwie Malmsteen, Nightwish, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and of course, Evanescence.

My favorite track of their album "The Open Door" is most definitely "Lacrymosa". The symphonic sound, the chorus in the background, and of course Amy's voice. What many people don't know (though I'm sure die-hard Ev fans, and Mozart fans alike do know)is that the entire backing for this song, not including the electric guitar parts, is Mozart's "Lacrimosa".

"I saw Amadeus when I was nine years old and fell in love with Mozart. The part of Mozart's Requiem called "Lacrimosa" is my favorite piece of music ever. I always wished we could cover it, but with programming and guitars and make it cool. It's our moment to try all the things I wanted to and couldn't, so I started messing with it in Protools. Terry wrote some riffs and turned it into this awesome metal epic." -Amy Lee

And boy is it amazing! I love how well it blended, her vocals and lyrics with Mozart's masterpiece playing in the background. The original Mozart piece has such power in it, yet it's expressed with elegant and mournful notes. It really is quite amazing.

I'd never thought of what would happen if you were to write your own song, but use a classical piece as the basic structure of it. It seemed a bit undo able, that you would butcher the original piece or that it just wouldn't work...covering a classical piece and turning it into something with a metal sound, I knew that would work. It's been done, and done wonderfully, but this was something different all-together, yet it came out utterly perfect.

I really believe this to be Evanescence's best song on an epic scale, and on a scale of sound.

So, To show everyone the bigger picture I'm posting three videos. One, Mozart's original piece "Lacrimosa", two Evanescence's finished song "Lacrymosa", and three and re-mix of Ev's song that is rumoured to be the original version.

Enjoy!

Mozart's "Lacrimosa" (From Requiem)
(The Video Shows The Music For The Vocal Melodies)


Mozart Lyrics

Lacrimosa
Lacrimosa dies illa
Qua resurget ex favilla
Judicandus homo reus.

Huic ergo parce, Deus
Pie Jesu Domine
Dona eis requiem, Amen.


Evanescence's "Lacrymosa"
(Video Is Just Pictures Of Amy Lee and Band)



Evanescence's "Lacrymosa" (Remix)
(This version is rumored to have been written for the opening scene of "The Chronicles Of Narnia" movie, but was not approved because it was not considered "original" because of the use of Mozart's "Lacrimosa")


Evanescence Lyrics

Out on your own,
Cold and alone again.
Can this be what you really wanted, baby?

Blame it on me,
Set your guilt free.
Nothing can hold you back now.

Now that you're gone,
I feel like myself again.
Grieving the things I can't repair and willing...

To let you blame it on me,
And set your guilt free.
I don't want to hold you back now love.

I can't change who I am.
Not this time, I won't lie to keep you near me.
And in this short life, there's no time to waste on giving up.
My love wasn't enough.

And you can blame it on me,
Just set your guilt free, honey.
I don't want to hold you back now love.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Whispers In The Dark

Cowgirl4christ made a post on Skillet's album Comatose awhile back, but didn't really go into the individual songs and focused a bit more on Skillet as a band and on the album. Be sure to read that post!

I'm posting about one of the songs on that album, "whispers in the dark". I first listened to the song a few weeks ago after I downloaded a playlist on Rhapsody.
I immediately fell captive to the back beat and guitar. The song really has an epic feel.

The lead singers voice has this urgency, but a soft reassuring urgency, one of hope. The lyrics are also those of hope. He's telling someone he's there for them, he'll do anything to see them happy and safe.

You get a sense of comfort when hearing this song, not in the sense that it's a mild and quiet song, no it's far from it with the pounding bass and hard core rock sound, but just from the overall feel you can't help but relax.

This song has become one of my all-time favorites, so check it out!

Enjoy!


Skillet-Whispers In The Dark


Despite the lies that you're making
Your love is mine for the taking
My love is just waiting
To turn your tears to roses

Despite the lies that you're making
Your love is mine for the taking
My love is just waiting
To turn your tears to roses

I will be the one that's gonna hold you
I will be the one that you run to
My love is a burning, consuming fire

No, you'll never be alone
When darkness comes
I'll light the night with stars
Hear my whispers in the dark

No, you'll never be alone
When darkness comes
You know I'm never far
Hear my whispers in the dark

Whispers in the dark

You feel so lonely and ragged
You lay here broken and naked
My love is just waiting
To clothe you in crimson roses

I will be the one that's gonna find you
I will be the one that's gonna guide you
My love is a burning, consuming fire

No, you'll never be alone
When darkness comes
I'll light the night with stars
Hear my whispers in the dark

No, you'll never be alone
When darkness comes
You know I'm never far
Hear the whispers in the dark

No, you'll never be alone
When darkness comes
I'll light the night with stars
Hear my whispers in the dark

No, you'll never be alone
When darkness comes
You know I'm never far
Hear the whispers in the dark

Whispers in the dark
Whispers in the dark
Whispers in the dark

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Coldplay - "Viva la Vida or Death And All His Friends"

I never used to be a big fan of Coldplay. I guess, in honesty, I never really gave them a chance. The first song I ever heard by this band was Clocks back when that song was very popular mainstream ... and after that I just never went out of my way to listen to them.
I received the album Viva la Vida or Death And All His Friends (2008; commonly referred to simply as Viva la Vida) for my birthday this year, and over the past few months I have really fallen in love with most of the tracks on the album. The group's unique soft-rock style, which combine lovely vocal harmonies and captivating instrumental melodies, has really captured my attention and gotten me hooked not only on Coldplay's recent work, but on their past efforts as well.
Please enjoy an album review for Coldplay's Viva la Vida or Death And All His Friends.


Coldplay - Viva la Vida or Death And All His Friends (2008)

1. Life in Technicolor - A pleasant, simple melody to start the album off. Two and a half minutes long, the piece starts off slow and beings to incorporate more and more parts, becoming more intricate with every repetition of the original theme. The crescendo lasts until the final seconds of the song, before transitioning seamlessly into Track 2.
2. Cemeteries of London - One of my favorites on the album. A steady strumming of acoustic guitars and rhythmic bass underlie the main melodies of this track, while the vocals flow smoothly along, alternating between short verses and long, legato choruses. The lyrics are beautiful and overall, this track is just lovely to listen to.
3. Lost! - This track starts out with hands clapping a steady pulse. This clapping rhythm continues throughout the track, while the simple-but-sweet lyrics continue in a smooth style. The track remains in simple form until just over half the song is over, when a guitar kicks in to add to the appeal. As backing vocals fade out toward and a keyboard wraps things up, you really get a feel for a certain peaceful, yet powerful essence that this song possesses.
4. 42 - This track picks up almost immediately where the previous one ended. Passionate, soulful vocals start off slowly, accompanied by a gorgeous piano melody in the background. About midway, the tempo picks up with a pleasant medley of guitar, string and bass which are later joined by quicker, more upbeat vocals that are again joined by the piano. I enjoy the "second half" of this song more, when the tempo picks up in a more lively style for the last few verses. Just a very pleasant song overall.
5. Lovers In Japan / Reign of Love - Definitely one of my favorites on the album. The track almost seems to be split into two different songs; hence the two separate titles. The first half of the song is an upbeat track with a shot of intuition. The second half is a slower, more subtle track with lyrics delivered in a bittersweet, reminiscent style. The piano melodies are the key factor in both halves of the song and, as a whole, I just love everything about this track.
6. Yes - A deeper vocal range immediately sets this song apart from the rest on the album. Strings start the track off, giving you the impression that maybe this one will be slower as well; however, when the guitar takes over a few seconds in, an entirely different feel takes over the track. The strings do make a re-appearance later in the track, but the repeating guitar theme is the star of this track. The entire song has a sultry, sexy vibe about it, and as a whole it's just a fun one to listen to. A different sound for the band, and I commend that.
7. Viva la Vida - Probably the most recognizable single off of the album,; the minute the strings start off with their staccato melody, you know exactly what song you're listening to. Track Seven has been playing constantly on the radio, has taken over music television, and has been hitting the top of the charts all over the world. The mass support of this song seems to have died down in the public eye, but the song is no less enjoyable to listen to. Just a beautiful song overall.
8. Violet Hill - Another of my favorites on the album. The lyrics themselves are heartbreakingly beautiful, but they are delivered in a way that isn't upsetting; bittersweet, but at the same time, sort of at peace. I love the guitar melodies in the instrumental bridge and the keyboard melodies in the first and last verses. Overall, there just isn't anything about this track that doesn't appeal to me. Beautiful, beautiful track.
9. Strawberry Swing - A very lovely song. The standout of this track is the guitar melody that begins right off the bat and sustains throughout the entire song. The lyrics are soft and simple, giving you a feeling of peace and security. A steady bass line keeps the tempo going, and when an acoustic guitar begins to strum near the end of the track, you get a full feeling for the track's mood. Just a sweet, sweet song.
10. Death And All His Friends - The final track on the album starts out with a simple keyboard melody, quiet vocals, and the eventual addition of a guitar, plucking a few notes here and there. As the song progresses, the guitar begins to adopt a more intricate melody before the tempo picks up and the bass drum stamps out a steady beat. A portion of the song is simply this hard-and-fast melody, but when the mood settles down again, the vocals return with an absolutely gorgeous chorus-style effect. The last two minutes of the song settle down into another combination of vocal and keyboard melodies which really give you a sense of closure as the album finally ends.

I'm really glad I've had the chance to get to know Coldplay a little bit more. I've discovered that they have created the perfect music to play in the car when you're driving down a sunny highway - or to put on and concentrate with when you just need a minute to think.
If you're interested in the music Coldplay has created, check out these links:

Coldplay's website has everything you need to know about the band, from tour dates and discography to contests and news.

Lyrics to all the songs on this album and Coldplay's other works can be found on this website.

And take a minute to look at the post Amy made for another beautiful Coldplay song, titled Yellow.

I'm going to try and branch out past the always popular Viva la Vida and post a video for another of Coldplay's amazing songs. This video is a fairly new release, and I find very captivating, even if it does make me dizzy ;) The song is also one of my album fav's. This video includes the "first half" of the song.
Here's Lovers In Japan by Coldplay.

Coldplay - Lovers In Japan Official Music Video

Monday, November 10, 2008

"We Can Be Heroes, Just For One Day"

It's been a while since I've made a post on this site, so I decided to post about one of my all-time favorite songs, hands down.

I've been a David Bowie fan for years and years. I was the only eleven-year-old I knew who could sing "Space Oddity" by heart, but out of all his songs the one that will always be my favorite is "Heroes".

A song far ahead of it's time in terms of sound. My dad told me that when it first came out it was nearly unlistenable because of the style, no one had made music like this yet.

Bowie's voice always seems to pour his heart into the songs. He has a yearning sound, one that I've yet to find in any other artist. "Heroes" emphisised that longing and used it to it's betterment. Between the amazing, timeless, melody and the wonderful lyrics, I consider this a masterpiece for rock music.

In addition to sharing Bowie's version of "Heroes" with you I'm going to share something I came across just a month ago. A German cover of the song, "Helden" beautifully performed by Apocalyptica.
They tweak the style ever so slightly to incorperate the metal sound and those amazing cellos. And add deep rough German vocals.

Both versions are amazing, and are must listens. Not just for Bowie fans, but for music lovers the world round.

Enjoy!

Heroes (Live)-David Bowie


Heroes Lyrics (English)

I, I will be king
And you, you will be queen
Though nothing will drive them away
We can beat them just for one day
We can be heroes just for one day

And you, you can be mean
And I, I'll drink all the time
'Cause we're lovers and that is a fact
Yes we're lovers and that is that

Though nothing will keep us together
We could steal time just for one day
We can be heroes for ever and ever
What d'you say?

I, I wish I could swim
Like the dolphins, like dolphins can swim
Though nothing, though nothing will keep us together
We can beat them for ever and ever
Oh, we can be heroes just for one day

I, I will be king
And you, you will be queen
Though nothing will drive them away
We can be heroes just for one day
Oh, we can be heroes just for one day

I, I remember
Standing by the wall
The guns shot above our heads
And we kissed as though nothing could fall
And the shame was on the other side
Oh, we can beat them for ever and ever
Then we can be heroes just for one day
We can be heroes
We can be heroes

We can be heroes
Just for one day
We can be heroes

We're nothing and nothing will help us
Maybe we're lying then you better not stay
But we could be safer just for one day


Helden (Cover)-Apocalyptica


German Lyrics-Helden

Du
Könntest Du schwimmen
Wie Delphine
Delphine es tun
Niemand gibt uns eine Chance
Doch können wir siegen
Für immer und immer
Und wir sind dann Helden
Für einen Tag

Ich
Ich bin dann König
Und Du
Du Königin
Obwohl sie
Unschlagbar scheinen
Werden wir Helden
Für einen Tag
Wir sind dann wir
An diesem Tag

Ich
Ich glaub' das zu träumen
die Mauer
Im Rücken war kalt
Die Schüsse reissen die Luft
Doch wir küssen
Als ob nichts geschieht
Und die Scham fiel auf ihre Seite
Oh, wir können sie schlagen
Für alle Zeiten
Dann sind wir Helden
Nur diesen Tag
Dann sind wir Helden
Dann sind wir Helden
Dann sind wir Helden
Nur diesen Tag

Dann sind wir Helden

Saturday, November 8, 2008

You're Gonna Go Far, Kid

This is a song that I have been absolutely obsessed with lately.
The first song I ever heard by The Offspring was The Kids Aren't Alright. A catchy track, I made a mental note to keep listening for more by the band. The second song of theirs to catch my attention was Hammerhead, and, finally, the track I'm going to review for you today; You're Gonna Go Far, Kid.
There are just so many elements to this song that appeal to me. As a whole, the punk-rock genre of the band caught my attention. This was a group that wasn't afraid to get a little crazy, to be a little "out-there"; to take risks that other bands wouldn't attempt. I love that in my music and The Offspring went all the way with that in this track.
It's impossible not to become drawn into the driving beat that opens the song right off the bat. From there, it's a whirlwind of off-beat cymbals, staccato bass, and killer guitar parts which, combined, create an emotionally driven background for an already powerful track. Add on the lyrics - overflowing with a sense of strength, courage, anger and defiance, all at once - and this is one song that draws you in and keeps you hanging on.
And once it's over, you can't help but hit "repeat" and enjoy it all over again.

This is The Offspring's You're Gonna Go Far, Kid.

The Offspring - You're Gonna Go Far, Kid Official Music Video



You're Gonna Go Far, Kid
The Offspring

Show me how to lie, you’re getting better all the time
And turning all against the one, it's an art that’s hard to teach
Another clever word sets off an unsuspecting herd
And as you step back into line, a mob jumps to their feet

Now dance, fucker, dance
Man, he never had a chance
And no one even knew, it was really only you
And now you steal away
Take him out today
Nice work you did
You’re gonna go far, kid

With a thousand lies and a good disguise
Hit ‘em right between the eyes, hit ‘em right between the eyes
When you walk away, nothing more to say
See the lightning in your eyes
See ‘em running, for their lives

Slowly out of line, and drifting closer in your sights
So play it out I’m wide awake, it’s a scene about me
There’s something in your way and now someone is gonna pay
And if you can’t get what you want, well it’s all because of me

Now dance, fucker, dance
Man, I never had a chance
And no one even knew, it was really only you
And now you’ll lead the way
Show the light of day
Nice work you did
You’re gonna go far, kid
Trust, deceived!

With a thousand lies and a good disguise
Hit ‘em right between the eyes, hit ‘em right between the eyes
When you walk away, nothing more to say
See the lightning in your eyes
See ‘em running, for their lives

Now dance, fucker, dance, he never had a chance
And no one even knew, it was really only you
So dance, fucker, dance, I never had a chance
It was really only you ...

With a thousand lies and a good disguise
Hit ‘em right between the eyes, hit ‘em right between the eyes
When you walk away, nothing more to say
See the lightning in your eyes
See ‘em running, for their lives

Clever alibis, Lord of the flies
Hit ‘em right between the eyes, hit ‘em right between the eyes
When you walk away, nothing more to say
See the lightning in your eyes
See ‘em running, for their lives!

Saturday, October 25, 2008

What A Catch, Donnie

Some of the people reading this may be aware of the fact that Fall Out Boy has a new album on the way. The album is titled Folie a Deux and is scheduled to be released worldwide December 15th and 16th of this year. Several singles have already been released from the album, and I have to say my favorite so far is titled What A Catch, Donnie.
This is a lovely ballad that transitions flawlessly between soft, insightful verses to a strong, powerful chorus. The gorgeous lyrics are presented beautifully by lead vocalist Patrick Stump in such a way that makes you feel so much. The entire track has such a lovely, sweet essence to it; but, at the same time, there's a sting of some underlying message behind the words. It's up to you, as the listener, to determine what isn't being said - but rather, delivered by the simplistic instrumentals and phenomenal vocals.
A creative touch was added to the song with the incorporation of a handful of cameo appearances which take the stage at the end of the track. Each guest vocalist sings a snippet of one of Fall Out Boy's other songs. These segments span the entire career of the band; from lyrics off of their debut album Evening Out With Your Girlfriend (2003) to one of their singles from the soon-to-be released Folie a Deux (2008), these "extra" vocals add a certain touch to the song, and are a special treat to those who have been fans of the band from the beginning.
All in all, this track is simply lovely. It looks like Fall Out Boy is back, and in a big way! Make sure to check out the band's other new singles, I Don't Care and Headfirst Slide Into Cooperstown On A Bad Bet, and don't forget to grab your copy of Folie a Deux on December 15th and 16th.
But for now, please enjoy listening to What A Catch, Donnie.

Fall Out Boy - What A Catch, Donnie Video



What A Catch, Donnie
Fall Out Boy

I've got troubled thoughts and the self-esteem to match
What a catch, what a catch

You'll never catch us, so just let me be
Said I'll be fine 'till the hospital, or American Embassy
Miss Flack said I still want you back
Yeah, Miss Flack said I still want you back

I've got troubled thoughts and the self-esteem to match
What a catch, what a catch
And all I can think of is the way I'm the one who charmed the one
Who gave up on you, who gave up on you

They say the captain goes down with the ship
So, when the world ends, will God go down with it?
Miss Flack said I still want you back
Yeah, Miss Flack said I still want you back

I've got troubled thoughts and the self-esteem to match
What a catch, what a catch
And all I can think of is the way I'm the one who charmed the one
Who gave up on you, who gave up on you

[Elvis Costello; "Headfirst Slide Into Cooperstown On A Bad Bet"]
I will never end up like him
Behind my back, I already am
Keep a calendar, this way you will always know ...

I've got troubled thoughts and the self-esteem to match
What a catch, what a catch
And all I can think of is the way I'm the one who charmed the one
Who gave up on you, who gave up on you

[Gabe Saporta; "Grand Theft Autumn/Where Is Your Boy?"]
Where is your boy tonight? I hope he is a gentleman
Maybe he won't find out what I know ...
[Travis McCoy; "Sugar, We're Goin' Down"]
We're going down, down in an earlier round
And sugar, we're goin' down swinging ...
[Brendon Urie; "Dance, Dance"]
Dance, dance, we're falling apart to halftime
Dance, dance, and these are the lives you'd love to lead ...
[Doug Neumann; "This Ain't A Scene, It's An Arms Race"]
This ain't a scene, it's a goddamn arms race
This ain't a scene, it's a goddamn arms race
[Alex DeLeon; "Thnks fr th Mmrs"]
One night, yeah and one more time
Thanks for the memories, even though they weren't so great ...
[William Beckett; "Growing Up"]
Growing up, growing up ...

I've got troubled thoughts and the self-esteem to match
What a catch, what a catch ...

*brackets indicate guest vocalists and the songs in which the lyrics they sing were originally recorded

Saturday, October 18, 2008

99 Red Balloons

I've always loved this song, "99 Luft Balloons". The German song about a few kids who let ninety-nine red balloons fly into the air only to have the government mistake it as a declaration of nuclear war. Air raid alarms go off and family's huddle into bomb shelters...all 'cause of a child having fun. It's always been a favorite of mine, the tune, the story, it's just a great song.

A few years ago I heard it on the radio, but it wasn't the "99 Luft Balloons" I knew, it was a faster paced more punk/ska version of the song in English. After a while of searching I found that it was a cover done by the band Goldfinger, and really, I think I like it more than the original.

The energy they put behind the cover is great, and best of all it didn't sacrifice the tune of the original at all. It's a must hear for anyone who loves the original, and for any punk/ska fans.

So here it is, Goldfinger's cover of "99 Red Balloons".

Goldfinger-99 Red Balloons (cover)

Monday, October 13, 2008

Metro Station - "Metro Station"

I enjoy listening to Metro Station much more than I would have ever anticipated.
I got a chance to listen to their debut album (Metro Station, released in 2007) for the first time recently and I must say, I am highly impressed. Their songs are made for the dance floor, with an irresistible beat and just the right touch of character. A few passionate lyrics thrown in make the tracks relate-able without losing their memorable charm.
So, maybe Metro Station isn't about making a statement or changing the world. These boys just want to get out and have some fun; and man, they're doing it, in a big way. While they may lack the depth of some other chart-topping artists, this band's free spirit and wild side keep them ahead of the rest.
Here's an album review for Metro Station's first studio effort.


Metro Station - Metro Station (2007)

1. Seventeen Forever - A good, solid track to start off the album. Slower through the verses and picking up in the chorus, this one follows a theme that seems to be a constant through Metro Station's debut; a song about young love and living for the moment ("We won't be seventeen forever, and we can get away with this tonight"). A really pleasant song to listen to; it just has a good vibe about it.
2. Control - The second track starts off with a quiet keyboard part before breaking out into a catchy dance beat. A little faster than the preceding track, this one is sexy and is just begging to be played in a dance club somewhere.
3. Kelsey - Such a soft, sweet track. An ode to one lover from another, it's one of those plain, honest love songs that just makes you feel good. The keyboard dominates this track, but in a simpler form than in others on the album. Everything about this song is just nice; it's simplicity is what makes this song great.
4. Shake It - Everybody's favorite, no? The fourth track on this album hit major mainstream success, topping charts across the country. With such an undeniable beat, it's got people on the dance floor all over the place. This one can't be beat for a bunch of teens - or older, perhaps - who just want to get out and have some fun for a night.
5. Wish We Were Older - Slowing it down a bit for track five, Metro Station puts a little more passion in this track without losing their dance club vibe. Again, seductive lyrics mask a message that may run a little bit deeper. The hook in the chorus makes you want to get up and move, while the bittersweet lyrics and overall vibe of the song keep you digging deeper into this track.
6. Now That We're Done - Again, a softer keyboard supports this track throughout. Like the track previous, Metro Station puts a passionate spin on a catchy dance beat to make a truly interesting listen. The repetitive, techno-style chorus is unforgettable. This track is one of my favorites on the album.
7. True To Me - The guitars pick up to give this track a little more of a pop-rock vibe than the rest of the album. A keyboard, however, still pounds out a catchy theme during the choruses, in which the lyrics and style screams pop. Not the strongest track on the album, but still fun all the same. The lyrics are sweet.
8. Tell Me What To Do - This track opens up strong, with a hook that keeps you tapping your toes all the way through. Again, lover's lyrics flow seamlessly over the staccato beat to produce a song that's really got more to offer than you realize the first time you listen. Another one of my favorites on the album; the bridge may be my favorite part.
9. California - Possibly the weakest track on the album, in my opinion. This song screams "spring break road trip"; not only in the lyrics, but in the pop-y, fast-paced beat and carefree vibe. A fun song to listen to, but definitely not one of my favorites.
10. Disco - Metro Station wraps it up with the third track which I put on my list of album favorites. This track just seems very well composed overall; a perfect use of different instrumental and vocal parts compliment each other beautifully. I like how they break away from the dance beat for a moment in the chorus of this song; it gives the whole track a very special presence. The lyrics tie together a gorgeous song to end the band's debut.

Even though I'm not a huge fan of this style of music, Metro Station has combined the styling of several different genres to create songs - and a debut album! - that really appeals to me. If Metro Station sounds interesting to you, I encourage you to check out the following links.

Check out Metro Station's website to learn more about the band.

The lyrics for all the songs on the debut album and more can be found on this website.

In an effort to broaden your horizons past the ever-popular Shake It, I'm going to post a music video for another of Metro Station's fun, upbeat tracks. I think the video represents the song perfectly, as well as what this band's music really stands for - all the wacky, crazy times Metro Station thrives on.
Here's Control by Metro Station.

Metro Station - Control Official Music Video

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Pencey Prep - An Old Band, A New Favorite

I first looked up Pencey Prep after discovering that it was the band Frank Iero was in before moving on to play guitar for My Chemical Romance. I knew Pencey Prep had broken up many years ago, but I still had a desire to look into what few songs they had managed to put out in their five-odd years together.
Pencey Prep's one-and-only studio effort, Heartbreak In Stero, was released in 2002. The album combines hardcore screamo with softer, acoustic styling, all the while maintaining a true punk-rock vibe. The lyrics scream - literally - about the troubles of life and seem especially relate-able for teens; from broken hearts to schoolyard bullies, Pencey Prep's songs go out to kids around the world.
It's a shame this band has broken up; I think with a bit more refinement and a few more years under their belt, Pencey Prep could have been something big. However, I know at least one member of the band has gone on to have a successful career in the music industry - and while their tracks may be limited, Pencey Prep has left behind one very like-able album.
I encourage you to take a listen to all of the tracks on Heartbreak In Stereo. My personal favorites off the album include PS Don't Write, The Secret Goldfish, Trying To Escape The Inevitable, and Lloyd Dobbler.
For now, I leave you with a video for Trying To Escape The Inevitable. I think this song has the most elements and has the most depth out of all my favorites listed above, while giving you a taste of a lot of the different styles Pencey Prep incorporates into the album. I hope you enjoy! =D

Pencey Prep - Trying To Escape The Inevitable Video



Trying To Escape The Inevitable
Pencey Prep

I have this reoccurring dream
You make it hard for me to breathe
I gave you everything I could
I gave up everything I own

And when you smile, it's not for me
You offer little sympathy
You're grasp so far exceeds your reach
I wake up, this is not a dream

I almost can't believe
That you're the same
Person who can
Straight-faced with a smile
Tell me that you love me

(Crawl!)
And I know I should run, I know I should run (But I don't get too far)
And I know I should run, I know I should ...(I know I should run)
And I know I should run (But I just keep running back)
And I know I should run, I know I should ...

I have this reoccurring dream
You admit that you're not happy
I know that you will never leave
You're here just to torment me

And I almost can't believe (And I know I should run, I know I should run)
That you're the same (And I know I should run, I know I should ...)
Person who can (And I know I should run, I know I should run)
Straight-faced with a smile (And I know I should run, I know I should ...)
Tell me that you love me

[Spoken]
I had a new dream and everything was perfect
The sky is pink, yellow, green, blue, and orange
And all the past has been forgotten
(I don't know how you don't choke on every lie you've ever told me!)
And we fell in love, and we fell in love, and we fell in love
And I fell into your trap!

And I know I should run, and I know I should run (You kept me sick!)
And I know I should run, and I know I should ... (You kept me sick!)
And I know I should run, and I know I should run (You took it all!)
And I know I should run, and I know I should...
(Run!) And I know I should run, and I know I should run (Run!)
And I know I should run, run, run!
(Run!) And I know I should run, and I know I should run (Run!)
And I know I should run, run, run!

You kept me sick
You took it all
You kept me complacent
But not for long!

Run!

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Feeling fine

I started listening to J-Pop and J-Rock when I was about tweleve years old. The sound is so different from what you hear here in the US, actually it's quite different from any music I've heard before.

The rock has a happier sound to it, yet most commonly a harder metal like background. And the lyrics are always more poetic it seems.

I've listened to many Japanese bands over the years. PuffyAmiyumi, Nana Kitade, High and Mighty Color, Gackt, but out of them all L'Arc~en~Ciel (which is french for Rainbow, or more litterally "The Arc In The Sky") is my favorite. Hyde, the frontman and lead singer, has this beautiful and powerful voice, clean and clear. Ken's lyrics always blow me away whether in English or in Japanese (I speak, write and read a bit).

One of my favorite L'Arc song is "Feeling Fine". The tune is catchy and happy, countering the slightly sad lyrics. The song is about breaking up and moving on, but it leaves you with happy thoughts. "Loving you made me happy everyday".

I'd recomend any and all of L'Arc's album's and songs. "Feeling Fine" is off their album "SMILE".

Be sure to also check out their album "AWAKE" though...everything they do is maginificant.

Below is a fan made video for "Feeling Fine" and the lyrics in both Japanese and English. Enjoy!


Feeling Fine-L'Arc~en~Ciel


-Original Japanese Lyrics-

Are you feeling fine?
Nemurenai yoru ni wa kimi no maboroshi ga...
She said, "Loving you made me happy everyday"
Ano koro to onaji sa mukaji na kao de hanashikakenaide

Tsunagatteite mo yokan shiteta kara saisho kara tabun
Tooi kako no koto sa oshietekureta wakare no imi

Itsu ni nareba ito wo tachikiri kimi wo norikoeru?

Are you feeling fine?
Nagai michi no tochuu de sayonara no kawari ni
She said, "Loving you made me happy everyday"
Nanigoto mo nai ka no you sekai wa mawaru boku wo nokoshite

Kagirinaku jiyuu... Tsukaenai kurai jikan wa tsukinai
Harewataru hibi ni tozashiteite mo jiyuu dakedo

Ude wo nobashi DOOR wo hiraite wasurekaketa no ni...

Are you feeling fine?
Nemurenai yoru ni wa kimi no maboroshi ga...
She said, "Loving you made me happy everyday"
Ano koro to onaji sa mukaji na kao de hanashikakenaide

Binetsu karuku doko ka kimi wo...

Imagoro kitto ki ni mo tomezu ni kimi wa yume no naka

Are you feeling fine?
Muda na teikou wa yamete ashita e to mukaou
I said, "Loving you made me happy everyday"
Itsu no ma ni ka nemuri ni togirete kieta egao no mama de



-English Translation-

Are you feeling fine?
On sleepless nights, the illusion of you...
She said, "Loving you made me happy everyday"
Don't talk to me with the innocent face you had back then

Though these feelings must have connected us from the start
I learned what it means to break up a long tim ago

When did the thread get cut and leave you hanging?

Are you feeling fine?
In the middle of the long road, instead of "goodbye"
She said, "Loving you made me happy everyday"
The world keeps turning, leaving me behind as if I were nothing

Unending freedom...Far more time than I have a use for
But at least I'm free to lock those days behind me

I've forgotten how to open the door that leads into my heart...

Are you feeling fine?
On sleepless nights, the illusion of you...
She said, "Loving you made me happy everyday"
Don't talk to me with the innocent face you had back then

You were somewhere in my fever...

Even now, I can't help but knowing you'll be in my dreams

Are you feeling fine?
Stop trying to resist, move on to tomorrow
I said, "Loving you made me happy everyday"
When did I start sleeping without seeing your smile?

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Lucky

Ahh. Once again, the sweet sound of Jason Mraz.

I've found that it's becoming harder and harder for me to get by without listening to this man sing.

His voice is soothing in a way, just soft enough, but with enough power to actually be called a "voice". He also uses that wonderful guitar style I love so much. Soft rock with the occasional bit of Spanish and jazz flare.

When I checked his new album "We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things." from the library the first song I really fell in love with was "Lucky", his duet with Colbie Caillat.
The Melody is so sweet, like a lullaby. Colbie's voice compliments Jason's very well.

The lyrics were some of the sweetest I've ever heard. I find myself falling to sleep to this song so often these days.

It's really quite the simple care-free song, and you can't really go into elaborate detail about it, and that's what I find so wonderful and special about it. It's self explanatory, it's real, it's honest, it's not in anyway complicated. It's a song that will just make you happy. Haha as you may have noticed I've been posting a lot of those lately...

Anyway, enjoy the song. Hopefully it will bring you the sweet smile and happy sigh it brought me. I'd do anything to pass that feeling on =]


Lucky (Feat. Colbie Caillat)-Jason Mraz



Do you hear me,
I'm talking to you
Across the water across the deep blue ocean
Under the open sky, oh my, baby I'm trying
Boy I hear you in my dreams
I feel your whisper across the sea
I keep you with me in my heart
You make it easier when life gets hard

I'm lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
Ooohh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh

They don't know how long it takes
Waiting for a love like this
Every time we say goodbye
I wish we had one more kiss
I'll wait for you I promise you, I will

I'm lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
Lucky we're in love every way
Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed
Lucky to be coming home someday

And so I'm sailing through the sea
To an island where we'll meet
You'll hear the music fill the air
I'll put a flower in your hair
Though the breezes through trees
Move so pretty you're all I see
As the world keeps spinning round
You hold me right here right now

I'm lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
I'm lucky we're in love every way
Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed
Lucky to be coming home someday

Ooohh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh
Ooooh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Tonight, Tonight

I've been a fan of Panic At The Disco for a pretty long time now, and am just starting to get into the Smashing Pumpkins' music, too. The first song I heard from the Pumpkins was Tonight, Tonight, and I was instantly impressed but the dramatic styling of the song and the beautiful, inspiring lyrics.
When I heard Panic! did a cover of the song, I was speechless. I knew Panic's lead singer, Brendon Urie, had just the theatrical style to pull off the elegant track.
And boy, I was anything but disappointed when I heard the cover for the first time! Brendon and the rest of the band went above and beyond in covering an already spectacular song. Even more astounding is the fact that this cover was never recorded; the only version of it available is a live performance!
Usually I don't post live videos on this site, and I try to keep from posting about the same artist over and over ... but this cover was too perfect to resist sharing. It really stand on it's own; this cover embodies all that is Panic At The Disco, while giving tribute to the timeless band who recorded it first.
This is Tonight, Tonight, originally by the Smashing Pumpkins, covered by Panic At The Disco.

Panic At The Disco - Tonight, Tonight Live Performance



Tonight, Tonight
Panic At The Disco
Originally Recorded by the Smashing Pumpkins

Time is never time at all
You can never ever leave without leaving a piece of youth
And our lives are forever changed
We will never be the same
The more you change the less you feel

Believe, believe in me, believe
Believe that life can change
That you re not stuck in vain
Were not the same, we're different tonight
Tonight, so bright
Tonight

And you know you're never sure
But you're sure you could be right
If you held yourself up to the light
And the embers never fade, in your city by the lake
The place where you were born

Believe, believe in me, believe
Believe in the resolute urgency of now
And if you believe there's not a chance tonight
Tonight, so bright
Tonight

We'll crucify the insincere tonight
We'll make things right, we'll feel it all tonight
We'll find a way to offer up the night, tonight
The indescribable moments of your life, tonight
The impossible is possible tonight
Believe in me as I believe in you, tonight

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Two Weeks In Hawaii

Haha, yes, I'm posting about another Hellogoodbye song.

This song isn't just my favorite Hellogoodbye song, but one of my all-time favorite songs, and has been for years now.

I heard this song for the first time when I bought Hellogoobye's album "Zombies! Aliens! Vampires! Dinosaurs!" in 2006. It became an instant favorite, and a song I never get tired of hearing.

This varies from HG's consistent techno style, and comes across with a more rock sound. The melody is gorgeous, but what really got me were the lyrics.
I found myself wishing some guy would write a song like this about me lol. The lyrics have this great honest and caring feel to them, and I can never tear myself away from this song. I smile every time I hear the lines:
"I felt so bad when your mom caught us eating ice cream in your room at three in the morning, 'cause I'd hate for her to not want me around her daughter 'cause my heart stops every time."
It's just too honest, from the heart, adorable...I've fallen in love with this song, totally and completely, and hope that you will too.

So take a listen, and read the lyrics, and most of all...enjoy!

Two Weeks In Hawaii-Hellogoodbye


you've got your airplane
and i've got the plain air of here
you're gone and i've gone insane
oh when will you reappear
but i'm just some new kid
who can't get his mind off of you
and i know that it's stupid

'cause you've got hawaii
and i've gotten no letters from you
i should stop whining
'cause it's only been a day or two...
i don't know what you did
but you got me to fall for you
i know that it's stupid

your family's rad and i
wish that they were here today
but they're thousands and thousands of miles away
i felt so bad when your mom
caught us eating ice cream in your
room at three in the morning

'cause i'd hate for her
to not want me around her daughter 'cause my heart stops every time

you've got Polaroid
and you even know how to rhyme
i'd be overjoyed
if we could just hang out sometime
i don't know what you did
but you got me to fall for you
and i know that it's stupid
but you know that i try

your drawing's rad and i
put it on my wall and i made
sure it wouldn't fall 'cause if it did
my straw wrapper might tear
and there would be no knot and i would
feel like i'd been shot right through the heart

and i'd fall apart but i'd remember how
my heart stops every time

you are so special
i just hope that we can be friends
i'll wait forever
but i guess that it all depends
on you and yours
so come on and dance with me
'cause you are so special

i hope this makes you smile
and you might stay that way for a while
'cause you deserve every grin that you get
and you'll get 'em a lot from me
oh oh oh oh

you are so special
i just hope that we can be friends
i'll wait forever
but i guess that it all depends
on you and yours
so come on and dance with me
'cause you are so special

Saturday, September 13, 2008

I Don't Care

The first song I heard from Apocalyptica was I'm Not Jesus, and I was instantly impressed by the band's ability to incorporate classical string instruments with their hard-rock sound.
Just recently, I heard I Don't Care by Apocalyptica, and I must say ... I love this song even more.
This track is gorgeous through-and-through. It opens with the band's trademark cellos, which create a soft, beautiful introduction to what proves to be a desperate, sorrowful collection of verses and chorus. The lyrics are the type that, at face value, are nothing but sad; but if you listen to them long enough and really try to feel what they're saying, you get an almost hopeful vibe from the bleak words.
The cellos really pick up in the bridge, where they swell and crescendo just enough to give you a definite feel for the essence of the track - right before a piano joins in to really take it home. And just when you think the song is over, one more chorus, full of crashing drums and steady guitar, pitches in to make sure you get the message.
And you do. This song is so powerful and so emotional, it's impossible not to be captivated by the whole thing.
And the music video. Oh my. A complete masterpiece. Every aspect of the video blends in perfectly with the message of the song; the dark, hopelessly hopeful feeling. The dancing in the video blows me away, and I love how they really showcased their cellos in several amazing shots.
Overall, I think this song is simply stunning. I commend Apocalyptica on being the only metal band I know to incorporate cellos in their music on a regular basis; and they completely rock it! I look forward to seeing this band on the charts again and again; I can see them becoming one of my new favorites.
This is I Don't Care by Apocalyptica, featuring Adam Gontier.

Apocalyptica - I Don't Care Official Music Video
I used MySpace videos to post this video because I couldn't find an embed-able version on YouTube. I've never tried this before, so ... I hope it works okay o.0

Apocalyptica - I Don't Care Feat. Adam Gontier


I Don't Care
Apocalyptica feat. Adam Gontier

I try to make it through my life, in my way, there's you
I try to make it through these lies, and that's all I do

Just don't deny it
Don't try to fight this
And deal with it, that's just part of it

If you were dead or still alive
I don't care, I don't care
Just go and leave this all behind
'Cause I swear, I don't care

I try to make you see my side
Always trying to stay in line
But your eyes see right through
That's all they do

I'm getting buried in this place
I've got no room, you're in my face
Don't say anything, just go away

If you were dead or still alive
I don't care, I don't care
Just go and leave this all behind
'Cause I swear, I don't care

I'm changing everything, 'cause you won't be there for me ...

If you were dead or still alive
I don't care, I don't care
Just go and leave this all behind
'Cause I swear, I don't care

If you were dead or still alive
I don't care, I don't care
Just go and leave this all behind
I don't care, I don't care, at all ...

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Corteo-Cirque du Soleil

Every since I was young I've appreciated music from different cultures. Growing up learning Greek folk dance and thus listening to the music, and learning Russian character dance and flamenco, and again listening to the music that comes with it.
I however am not sure where my love for French music came from, but I do know that I'm captivated by French gypsy music.

I also adore circus music. Not Barnum & Bailey style "Big Top" music, but classic caravan circus music. Haha more gypsy sounding. Then there's the side of me that loves those gorgeous Celtic and Gaelic sounds...needless to say I love folk music from around the world.

Last Saturday my dance teacher brought in a Cirque du Soleil soundtrack to dance to, and started off the class with the song "Anneaux" from Cirque's show "Corteo". I was immeadiately captivated by the beat, and then the vocalization, oh and then the strings! It had the essence of a good Nightwish song, but with a French twist, and of course a more circus feel.
This weekend I looking through the library for a copy of the CD, and with great luck found one! I've been listening to it ever since. And this CD has all of the sounds I talked about above!

The other song that caught my eye (though really, they all did) was "Klezmer Moment", it starts off a very Gypsy sounding piece sung by a man with a wonderful Spanish sounding voice, and towards the middle gets into even more of that wonderful French Gypsy/Circus sound. The accordian, everything, is perfect.

Really, this whole CD is worth a listen, and I'm planning on going out and buying acctually. It's quite wonderful!

What's quite amazing about the music from this show is that the vocals are performed in a mixture of three different languages, French, Spanish, and Italian. The ensemble is made up of 61 musicians and singers, with a 16 piece choir, and 13 piece string section.
As I said, quite amazing!

Hopefully, one day I'll be able to go to one of these magnificent shows!

Anyway, without futher delay, these two songs that captivated me so!


Anneaux



Klezmer Moment


"Klezmar Moment" Lyrics


Si ca te fait du bien
Si ca te fait du bien
de te sentir un peu plus mal
Sens-toi bien mal
Sens-toi bien mal
pour te sentir un peu mieux
Sens-toi bien mal
Sens-toi bien mal
pour te sentir un peu mieux

Si ca te fait du bien
Si ca te fait du bien
de te sentir un peu plus mal
Sens-toi bien mal
Sens-toi bien mal
pour te sentir un peu mieux
Sens-toi bien mal
Sens-toi bien mal
pour te sentir un peu mieux

Mieux
Sans te sentir mal
Te fait du bien alors sens-toi
bien mal
pour te sentir un peu mieux

Si ca te fait du bien
Si ca te fait du bien
de te sentir un peu plus mal
Sens-toi bien mal
Sens-toi bien mal
pour te sentir un peu mieux
Sens-toi bien mal
Sens-toi bien mal
pour te sentir un peu mieux

Si ca te fait du bien
Si ca te fait du bien
de te sentir un peu plus mal
Sens-toi bien mal
Sens-toi bien mal
pour te sentir un peu mieux
Sens-toi bien mal
Sens-toi bien mal

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Only Time

Listening to music by Enya brings back so many memories for me.
Hearing her music reminds me of my childhood. I can clearly remember popping her album A Day Without Rain (2000) into my boombox - back before iPods and MP3's - at night before I went to sleep, putting the boombox on the bed next to my pillow, plugging my headphones in and letting the soft, beautiful music soothe me to sleep. I listened to this album almost every night when I was seven, eight years old.
Only Time brings back especially strong memories for me. This was one of my favorite songs by Enya at the time.
When I got older, I stopped listening to Enya. The CD was packed away with a lot of the other albums I adored as a child, and I moved on to the style of music I enjoy now.
But, for some odd reason, today I had a strange urge to listen to Enya again. I found the album, and listening to tracks like Only Time made me smile and made me remember how much it meant to me when I was little. I turned on Tempus Vernum - a darker track, only two-and-a-half minutes long - and laughed, remembering how it was the only track on the album I couldn't fall asleep to when I was younger; the chanting vocals scared me! Now, I love the entire style of it. Other songs, like Wild Child and the title track, A Day Without Rain, also put me in a reminiscent mood.
Now I'm pleased to say Enya's eight-year-old album graces the inner workings of my iPod. I can't wait to fall asleep listening to her lovely voice again.
Here's a small taste of the music I loved as a child. This is Only Time by Enya.

Enya - Only Time Official Music Video



Only Time
Enya

Who can say where the road goes? Where the day flows? Only time.
And who can say if your love grows, as your heart chose? Only time.

Who can say why your heart sighs, as your love flies? Only time.
And who can say why your heart cries, when your love lies? Only time.

Who can say when the roads meet, that love might be, in your heart.
And who can say when the day sleeps, if the night keeps, all your heart.
Night keeps all your heart

Who can say if your love grows, as your heart chose? Only time.
And who can say where the road goes? Where the day flows? Only time.

Who knows? Only time . . .

"Don't Believe Me"-Steven Lufkin

Well, I do have to admit that I am slightly biased when posting this 'cause I know the artist lol.

But really, you have to hear this kid play!
My friend Sasha told me that he was playing in July, and I've been hooked ever since. He's only 15 years old!

Steven is a great musician. He plays a mean guitar, like crazy Jimmy Hendrix style solos, but he also writes beautiful acoustic songs. The amazing thing...he's only been playing guitar for two years!!!

I want to share his song "Don't Believe Me" from last night's show. This is my favorite of his songs...definitely hit single material.
It makes me think of a newer, happier version of My Chem's "I'm Not Okay (I Promise)", not in terms of sound really, but the lyrics and overall feel of the song.

"I'm in the car driving north on the highway
If I was in control I'd have things my way
Don't believe me when I say I'm Okay
Don't Believe me when I say I understand..."


Anyway, check out his myspace. He's got quite a few songs recorded and up on the page. Including the recorded version of "Don't Believe Me".

http://myspace.com/undertheapple


So here's the live video from last night! Haha you can hear the audience (myself included) singing along...sorry 'bout that!


Don't Believe Me (Live @ Village Coffee Roastery)-Steven Lufkin

Friday, September 5, 2008

Banana Pancakes-Jack Johnson

I've known about Jack Johnson for awhile now, but due to my previous more narrow music tastes I had never bothered to really listen. Lately however, I've been branching out and listening to a lot of different music, and Jack Johnson is one of the artists I looked into.

The melodies to his song are always soft and catchy, and the lyrics sweet and calm. It's perfect music more sitting on the porch with your dog and sipping a lemonade. You get this overwhelming sense of calmness, and carefree when you hear it.

I recently bought his album "In Between Dreams". . .lol and honestly how I chose which Jack Johnson album to get (for as I said, I'm not terribly familiar with him as an artist, but I had decided on buying one of his albums.) was to buy the album with the yellow cover. Haha and that gave me two choices, this album ("In Between Dreams"), or the Curious George soundtrack. Both of which I sampled at the bookstore, and in the end I opted for this one.

All that said I'm very happy to have chosen "In Between Dreams". While I'm sure the Curious George soundtrack is equally wonderful, I've found another favorite song to add to my long list, "Banana Pancakes".

This song really captures the essence of what I feel when I listen to Jack. The carefree attitude, the sense that nothing can go wrong even if you wing it.
The lyrics are all about just enjoying life, relaxing, forgetting about what you have to do for once.

I really enjoyed this song, and still do. . .so have a listen, and let me know what you think! =]



Banana Pancakes-Jack Johnson


Can't you see that it's just raining
There ain't no need to go outside

But baby you hardly even notice
When I try to show you this
Song it's meant to keep you
From doing what you're supposed to
Like waking up too early
Maybe we could sleep in
I'll make you banana pancakes

Pretend like it's the weekend now
And we could pretend it all the time
Can't you see that it's just raining
There ain't no need to go outside

But just maybe, hala ka ukulele
Mama made a baby
I really don't mind the practice
because you're my little lady
Lady, lady love me
Because I love to lay here lazy
We could close the curtains

Pretend like there's no world outside
And we could pretend it all the time
Can't you see that it's just raining
There ain't no need to go outside

Ain't no need, ain't no need
Can't you see, can't you see
Rain all day and I don't mind

Telephone singing, ringing, it's too early
Don't pick it up
We don't need to
We got everything we need right here
And everything we need is enough
It's just so easy
When the whole world fits inside of your arms
Do we really need to pay attention to the alarm
Wake up slow, wake up slow

But baby, you hardly even notice
When I try to show you this
Song it's meant to keep you
From doing what you're supposed to
Like waking up too early
Maybe we could sleep in
I'll make you banana pancakes

Pretend like it's the weekend now
And we could pretend it all the time
Can't you see it's just raining
There ain't no need to go outside

Ain't no need, ain't no need
Rain all day and I really really really don't mind
Can't you see, can't you see
We've got to wake up slow

Monday, September 1, 2008

Jesus Walks

Hip-hop and rap are some of the few musical genres that typically don't appeal to me. There's just something about the genre that just lacks a lot of depth, in my opinion. I like songs with a message, and that isn't often times found in hip-hop or rap tracks. A lot of artists in these genres aren't so much in it for the music as they are for these fame and fortune. Maybe that's a misconception; maybe that's just how they seem at first glance. But in all honesty, that's how they present themselves, and that representation doesn't make me desire to know any more about them - as people or musicians.
So far, I've found Kanye West to be an exception.
The stuff I've heard from Kanye West - which isn't a lot, granted - seems to have the depth and message that is often times missing from the type of music he sings. And this song of his, titled Jesus Walks, is a perfect example of that. The entire song is about how what he's rapping about - the Lord - isn't something that is typically "accepted" by followers of the genre ("They say you can rap about anything except for Jesus / That means guns, sex, lies, video tapes / But if I talk about God my record won't get played").
The message behind this song is very self explanatory; just take a listen. And really listen. Hear what Kanye's trying to say. The music video is beautiful and also helps get the point of the song across.
I commend Kanye for taking a chance with this song. It's great to see that rappers can sing about more than "guns, sex, lies" ... you know.
This is Jesus Walks by Kanye West.

Kanye West - Jesus Walks Official Music Video



Jesus Walks
Kanye West

Yo, we at war
We at war with terrorism, racism, and most of all we at war with ourselves
(Jesus Walks)
God show me the way because the devil trying to break me down
(Jesus Walks with me) with me, with me, with me ...

You know what the Midwest is?
Young & Restless
Where restless - might snatch your necklace
And next these - might jack your Lexus
Somebody tell these - who Kanye West is
I walk through the valley of the Chi where death is
Top floor the view alone will leave you breathless
Try to catch it, it's kinda hard
Getting choked by the detectives yeah, now check the method
They be asking us questions, harass and arrest us
Saying "We eat pieces of s**t like you for breakfast"
Huh? Ya'll eat pieces of s**t? What's the basis?
We ain't going nowhere but got suits and cases
A trunk full of -, rental car from Avis
My momma used to say only Jesus can save us
Well momma I know I act a fool
But I'll be gone 'til November I got packs to move I hope

(Jesus Walks)
God show me the way because the devil trying to break me down
(Jesus Walks with me)
The only thing that that I pray is that my feet don't fail me now
(Jesus Walks)
And I don't think there is nothing I can do now to right my wrongs
(Jesus Walks with me)
I want to talk to God but I'm afraid because we ain't spoke in so long

To the hustlers, killers, murderers, drug dealers even the strippers
(Jesus walks with them)
To the victims of welfare for we living in hell here, hell yeah
(Jesus walks with them)
Now hear ye, hear ye, want to see Thee more clearly
I know He hears me when my feet get weary
Cause we're the almost nearly extinct
We rappers are role models, we rap, we don't think
I ain't here to argue about his facial features
Or here to convert atheists into believers
I'm just trying to say the way school need teachers
The way Kathie Lee needed Regis, that's the way I need Jesus
So here go my single, dog, radio needs this
They say you can rap about anything except for Jesus
That means guns, sex, lies, video tapes
But if I talk about God my record won't get played, huh?
Well let this take away from my spins
Which will probably take away from my ends
Then I hope this take away from my sins
And bring the day that I'm dreaming about
Next time I'm in the club everybody screaming out

(Jesus Walks)
God show me the way because the devil trying to break me down
(Jesus Walks)
The only thing that that I pray is that my feet don't fail me now
(Jesus Walks)
And I don't thing there's nothing I can do now to right my wrongs
(Jesus walks with me ...)
I want to talk to God but I'm afraid because we ain't spoke in so long

Crawling-Linkin Park

I've been a Linkin Park fan for years now. I think I started listening when I was thirteen, and I haven't stopped since. It's one of those bands that you don't grow out of, 'cause their music is always appealing.

I personally prefer the songs from their earlier albums, Hybrid Theory, and Meteora. Minutes To Midnight was also a good album, but it didn't give me that great LP vibe.

Anyway, the song I chose today is a favorite of Hybrid Theory, Crawling.
The song is much more melodic than the other songs on this album, but still has Chester's strong vocals, and Mike's emcee.
The lyrics are great too, and have a lot of meaning, and you can take that meaning in a lot of different ways. That's another thing I love about LP, their lyrics. They're always strong, even when they're telling you about how broken they are inside. They always give me some form of courage to go on, take what ever I'm given, and live life, don't let stuff consume me!

Linkin Park is a GREAT band, for many, many reasons (not just 'cause Chester's from Phoenix! Lol), and if you haven't, I suggest you check out all of their stuff. Especially the older albums.

Here you go.

Crawling-Linkin Park


Crawling in my skin
Consuming all I feel
Fear is how I fall
Confusing what is real

There's something inside me that pulls beneath the surface
Consuming/Confusing
This lack of self control I fear is never-ending
Controlling/I can't seem

To find myself again
My walls are closing in
[Without a sense of confidence I'm convinced
It's just too much pressure to take]
I've felt this way before
So insecure

Discomfort, endlessly has pulled itself upon me
Distracting/Reacting
Against my will I stand beside my own reflection
It's haunting how I can' seem...