This weekend, my sis and I are heading to Atlantic City to see Janet Jackson. While I should have seen her on The Velvet Rope tour and recently drooled over the setlist for the Rhythm Nation tour, I'm still way excited. Doubly so, as she's playing smaller venues, which will be groovy.
Anyhow, after a few St. Patty's cocktails, my sister implored me to make a Janet mix for the drive. Never one to turn down the opportunity for a good mix, I got to work a few days later, and this is what I came up with.
It's 90 minutes. Maybe that's breaking some sort of commandment of mixmaking, but I couldn't get it down to 80. And you know what? Back in the day we always made 90 minute mixes, because that was the standard cassette length. So there.
It's a legit, continuous mix. Her early albums haven't been remastered (to my knowledge), and I wanted to include some of those iconic segues, which often meant mixing the album segues with the Design of a Decade remastered tracks.
Nothing from her last few records, simply because I'm not that familiar with them. The last album I bought was All for You, and the last album that knocked my socks off was The Velvet Rope. And while there are some more mid-tempo tracks, there are no slow jams. Not that Miss Jackson doesn't make some sexy slow jams, but I viewed this as a dance mix of sorts.
There are also a few mixing flourishes that I'm kind of proud of. Most importantly, I tried to vary it up a bit and include some alternate mixes.
Enough blathering. Here's what I came up with:
Control intro Control If Let's Dance (segue) Miss You Much (Mama Mix) All for You Say You Do What Have You Done for Me Lately Nasty Black Cat Go Deep That's the Way Love Goes Someone to Call My Lover Together Again Pleasure Principle (Ultimix) Rhythm Nation Runaway Escapade (Got it Made 7" mix) Alright (12" R+B Mix feat. Heavy D) When I Think of You (remix)
Well, here we are again. There's snow on the ground, presents being bought, and a half-completed stack of finals on my living room floor. Yes friends, it's that time of year, when your old pal Gonzo compiles what he thinks represents some of the best music released in the last twelve months.
2010 was an excellent year for music. By April, I felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of good releases hitting shelves each week. That pace ebbed and flowed for the remainder of the year, but golly - this was surely one of the better years for music in recent history. As always, trying to narrow it all down to 80 minutes or less proved a challenge. But with perseverance and geeky obsession, I accomplished the mission. Ladies and gentlemen, I give to you:
PRESENT COMPANY EXPECT IT: GONZO'S 2010 MIX
1. LCD Soundsystem - "Dance Yrself Clean" This is Happening (Virgin)
Somehow I knew in June that this would end up kicking off the 2010 mix. I love the build in this song. For the first three minutes, you can barely hear what's going on (a la "Long Long Long"). Suddenly you're suckerpunched with that sixteenth note leading into a solid four-on-the-floor beat with some groovy synth punctuation as James Murphy's vocals become more soulful. And then there's the seemingly arhythmic break down which always throws me for a loop as well. I admit that I can't quite wrap my head around Murphy's lyrics, which critique the same hipster subculture that his career depends upon. Nevertheless, This is Happening was a winner with me from the moment I streamed it on the band's official website, and it is certainly deserving of all the attention that it's received this year.
2. Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti - "Round and Round" Before Today (4AD) Official Website I'd never even heard of Ariel Pink until the buzz around Before Today began to circulate. Fellow WIUP DJ and occasional co-host Marc Morrison chose this one week for our summer program First Impressions. Upon first listen, I wasn't completely taken in by the album, but I could tell that it had room to grow on me. Turns out, I was right. A few late nights of writing spent with Before Today swung my opinion more fully. "Round and Round" remains my favorite track from the disc, and is very representative of the album's overall sound. It's indie rock meets AM Gold meets something slightly haunting (ergo, the name?). It's a catchy number, and I can't be the only one who thinks that the bridge pays homage to Julian Lennon's "Too Late for Goodbyes, can I?
3. Vampire Weekend - "Giving Up the Gun" Contra (XL)
2010 was perhaps the year of Vampire Weekend. They got quite a bit of attention for their 2008 self-titled debut, but the buildup and eventual success of Contra pushed them into the mainstream spotlight. The album is great, though I know many people have tired of it, claiming it wore its welcome pretty quickly. That may well be the case. I can no longer tolerate "Holiday," thanks to the excessively-run Honda ad featuring the track. I would have pegged them for a Target commercial, actually. Anyhow, the fact of the matter is that Contra is still a great album, even if we're sick of it. More than any other song from the album, "Giving Up the Gun" sticks out primarily because WIUP student DJs gave it heavy play. But it also has a lot going for it - a catchy melody, a stop-start chorus, and a relative lack of pretension (which can't be said for many VW songs).
I believe my introduction to the new Yeasayer was actually Alan Wilkis' remix of "Ambling Alp." The original version of that track was up for consideration on this mix, but "O.N.E." beat it out, in part once again because a few WIUP DJs gave it heavy play in the spring. It's surely the most dance-oriented track on the disc, which sees the band generally moving into a poppier realm. Odd Blood still sports a good deal of the darker, weirder elements of All Hour Cymbals, which is great. But I have to say, it's the poppier tracks that stand out. I also got to see them live back in September, and they put on an excellent show.
5. Twin Sister - "Around and Away We Go" Colour Your Life (Infinite Best)
A totally random discovery that happened to pan out. I stumbled upon Twin Sister over at Gorilla vs. Bear, who had posted a few tracks from the band's then-upcoming EP. Twin Sister put the entire EP up for free download, so I gave it a shot. And boy howdy, did it pay off. Twin Sister have a light, almost dream-like sound, but maintain a pop sensibility throughout. You can almost hear a bit of Tom Tom Club in there. There's also something rather charming about lead singer Andrea Estella's accent. It doesn't really sound like a New York accent (the band hails from Brooklyn), but I can't quite place it. They've toured extensively, though sadly not anywhere on my radar. Nonetheless, Colour Your Life is one of my top picks of the year - you know it's good when you download it for free (legally) yet make an eventual CD purchase as well. I'll be interested to see where Twin Sister goes from here.
7. Beach House - "Norway" Teen Dream (Sub Pop)
Official Website I'd heard Beach House's previous release (2008's Devotion) and liked it well enough. But it cannot hold a candle to Teen Dream. When I heard Teen Dream in January, I billed it as "an early contender for album of the year." While there have been a number of worthy challengers, I say with conviction that Teen Dream is hands down my favorite album of 2010. I've played the hell out of it for 11 months and it affects me just as deeply in December as it did in January. The album is so unbelievably gorgeous, so lushly arranged and produced. It was a perfect winter release, to be played at full volume in a warm abode while Snowmageddeon raged outside. To put things into perspective, by the time I get to ripping tracks for the year-end mix, I have a general idea of how it will take shape. In the interest of time, I'll rip 2, *maybe* 3 tracks from the pile of discs that I accrue. When it came to Teen Dream, I pulled 6 of the album's 10 tracks, because there are just that many standouts on the disc (though the other four tracks are good too!). "Norway" won out from those other 5 tracks simply for purposes of fit and flow. It was otherwise quite difficult to pick one track from this dynamite album. Victoria Legrand also has one of the most alluring, beautiful and unique voices in indie rock. Interesting range as well. I was fortunate enough to see Beach House over the summer, and they faithfully execute their material live, with the aid of a live drummer (which is generally a plus in my book). If this mix prompts you to buy one album, it should really be Teen Dream.
8. Band of Horses - "Laredo" Infinite Arms (Fat Possum) Official Website
Band of Horses has been around, but I admit that I hadn't heard them until this year. I heard "The Funeral" on the radio and thought it one of the most emotionally intense songs I'd ever heard. After acquainting myself with their first album, I was intrigued to hear of the pending release of Infinite Arms, their third album. I can't speak for what their second album sounds like (it's on my "to buy" list), but Infinite Arms has a hint of southern influence, which isn't quite the case with Everything All the Time. That southern flavor is probably most evident on "Laredo," the album's second single. That said, the song is indicative of the general vibe of Infinite Arms. This album gets the award for "Best disc for driving on the highway in the summertime." Perfect road trip music. So I thank an unnamed WIUP alum as well as blogging pal Pete Icke for hipping me to this wonderful band.
Speaking of bands that somehow escaped my radar until this year, Grinderman's second album was a surprise favorite. Nick Cave (along with a few Bad Seeds) fronts this dark, loud, straightforward rock outfit with a raw power (pun intended) unparalleled in 2010 rock releases. I believe I only checked out the album on account of some of the online buzz around it's release, which panned out in the end. "Worm Tamer" is the album's second single, (preceded by the equally in-your-face "Heathen Child"). Check out this live in-studio performance from the RAK Sessions in London:
10. The Dead Weather - "Die by the Drop" Sea of Cowards (Third Man)
2009 saw the introduction of The Dead Weather, yet another JW project. The band's debut hit shelves in July of last year. Sea of Cowards was in our grubby little paws by May. And let's not forget all of the touring in between! In some senses Sea of Cowards is more of the same brand of gritty rock and creepy blues established on Horehound, but it seems a bit more focused as an album, and in general an all around tighter execution. Seriously, when does Jack White sleep? This guy's productivity is reaching comical proportions. ?uestlove is the only other figure I can think of that might give White a run for his money, though I'm certainly not complaining. Word on the street is that 2011 will bring us a new album by country gal Wanda Jackson produced by White (they'll also be touring together), and who knows what else. I'm certainly looking (and listening) forward. 11. Sleigh Bells - "Tell 'Em" Treats (N.E.E.T./Mom and Pop)
While there was a lot of great music released this year, Sleigh Bells was one of those rare albums that made my ears perk up as I thought, "Well this sounds different than pretty much anything else I've heard before." It definitely has some echoes of labelmate M.I.A., but they aren't copping her style by any means. Most notably, Sleigh Bells are a hell of a lot nosier than M.I.A. The sheer amount of overmodulation on the album is reminiscent of the Stooges' Raw Power, while the music is a clash of pop hooks, punk ferocity and guitars, and danceable beats. Wikipedia categorizes the band as "Noise Pop." Usually I ignore such labels, but this one actually fits. They've taken aggressive, distorted noise and placed it within the 3 minute pop format. And somehow, it works.
12. Crystal Castles - "Celestica" II (Fiction) Official Website The sophomore disc from Crystal Castles took a very close second to the Beach House record as my pick for album of the year. They were certainly my two most played discs, with Crystal Castles having the added element of extreme anticipation. And the band certainly disappoint - there isn't a bad track on the album. From the "fun facts" file, Wikipedia claims that Crystal Castles II was recorded "in various places including a church in Iceland, a self-built cabin in northern Ontario, a garage behind an abandoned convenience store in Detroit, and the London studio of Paul "Phones" Epworth (Bloc Party)." But I digress. The album showcases Crystal Castles in a variety of modes, but none too far of a stretch - dancier tunes (such as "Celestica"), noisier, more aggressive tracks ("Doe Deer"), and darker electro tunes that have earned them the rather absurd label of "electro goth" ("Vietnam," "Violent Dreams"). And they put one hell of a live show. Aside from the seemingly endless DJs that preceded them, Crystal Castles' show at the Electric Factory was by far the best (and sweatiest) live show I saw in 2010. The icing on the cake is a remix of one of the album's tracks, a cover of Platinum Blonde's "Not in Love," featuring Robert Smith on vocals. I admit, it sounded like a bad idea, but holy cow, it works beautifully - dare I say I like it even more than the album cut. Check it out:
12. New Young Pony Club - "Lost a Girl" The Optimist (The Numbers)
You may recall that the New Young Pony Club's 2007 debut was a favorite of mine that year. That being the case, I was very much looking forward to The Optimist. It isn't as strong as its predecessor, but The Optimist is a solid effort in much the same vein as Fantastic Playroom. If ever there was a band that could be described as "hipster pop," this is probably it. I sure don't have a problem with it. I just wish they would tour the US.
13. Chromeo - "Night by Night" Business Casual (Atlantic)
Official Website Oh, we're dancin' now! Chromeo came back onto the scene this year with the follow up to their 2007 breakthrough/automatic dance party Fancy Footwork. It's an admirable return that follows the FF format, but Business Casual does leave one wondering just how long Chromeo can ride the wave of retro-'80s synth funk. In any genre , the retro game is only interesting for so long (I'm looking at you, Jurassic 5 and Amy Winehouse). While Business Casual is a fine disc, it does suggest that Chromeo's next move is going to have to step out side of the (talk)box for them to retain audience interest. But to end on a positive note, the songs on Business Casual maintain a too-sexy vibe. "Night by Night" is a great example of this - and the video is every bit as seductive as the song:
Speaking of retro, there's also a clear 1980s influence throughout Goldfrapp's Head First. Some call it a return to roller disco. I believe my hetero life partner said "Rocket" sounded "like Flashdance circa 2010." I'll take it. I was not a big fan of Goldfrapp's previous effort, 2008's Seventh Tree - but I had to respect their move to play outside of the electro sandbox for a bit (though I'm thinking I ought to revisit that album). Ultimately though, Goldfrapp is at their best when they're making dance music. Their decidedly retro approach on Head First works very well, a more playful contrast to their previous work (such as 2005's Supernature).
15. M.I.A. - "XXXO" /\/\ /\ Y /\ (N.E.E.T./XL/Interscope)
I didn't have much hope for M.I.A.'s third studio album (read: "Maya"). Her off-stage antics (most notably her feud with a New York Times writer) and schizophrenic Tweets seemed like she might be heading into Kanye territory. Upon hearing the album's stream via NPR's First Listen, I was pleasantly surprised. This is absolutely M.I.A.'s weakest album to date, but there are a number of gems scattered about. Quite simply, it would have been a great 10-track LP. Among those gems is "XXXO," which is apparently one of the biggest love-it-or-hate-it singles of the year (at least according to the blogosphere). I love it. One reviewer criticized the track for being so "club ready," but that's one of the things I like about it. It's a contrast to the multi-genre cultural amalgamation she's known for, true. But a welcome one, I think. I will say that in this track and others on the album, the references to Twitter, iPhone, the Internet, etc. seem incredibly forced. Maybe it's done tongue-in-cheek, I don't know. Nevertheless, "XXXO," "Born Free" (and it's controversial video), "Teqkilla," and "Tell Me Why" are standout tracks that make /\/\ /\ Y /\ a worthwhile album, if an overall less interesting one. She also loses points for not including a download code with the vinyl release (seriously?).
16. Robyn (feat. Snoop Dogg) - "U Should Know Better" Body Talk pt. 2 (Konichiwa Records)
Official Website Ever since Bowie's canned Outside trilogy, I've instinctually been skeptical of any artist announcing a multi-volume project to be released over time. 2010 may force me to rethink this position. Erykah Badu released the second installment of her New Amerykah trilogy this year, and Robyn met her goal of releasing the three-part Body Talk set over the course of 2010...sort of. I can't help feeling that the third installment (simply titled Body Talk) was a bit of a copout, boasting 5 new tracks and 10 cuts previously issued on Body Talk pts. 1 and 2. Seriously? Of course I bought it, but that's beside the point. So is this little tirade for that matter. I digress. While 2005's Robyn received international acclaim, I found much of it fairly pedestrian, save the electro-infused tracks that opened the album. But those two tracks were enough to leave me thinking "She has a great album in her. This just isn't it." So I was very excited when I heard that among other people, Philly's own Diplo would be doing production work on the Body Talk project. "This is exactly what she needs," I thought. And while Diplo was only involved in a few of the project's tracks, collectively Body Talk is the album I've been wanting Robyn to make. Her pop tendencies aren't buried, but given a makeover that makes these albums stand out amid the sludge of contemporary dime-a-dozen dance pop artists. Pop, electro, dancehall (hi, Diplo!), acoustic ballads and Swedish folk combine for a consistently enjoyable toe-tappin', booty-shakin' listen. Here's hoping that Robyn continues to innovate and reinvent her sound in interesting ways.
17. Janelle Monae (feat. Big Boi) - "Tightrope" The Archandroid (Bad Boy)
Being such a Prince fan, friends of mine will fairly often recommend an artist claiming, "they sound a lot like Prince." This was how I first learned of Janelle Monae. Skeptical, I gave The Archandroid a listen and wasn't that taken, especially after seeing her Prince tribute at the BET Awards. Her "look at me, I'm weird" shtick just seemed too contrived. Months later, I thought that I may have been too harsh, and gave it another listen.
I had been too harsh.
The Archandroid covers a lot of ground. It's soulful, it's funky, it's accessible yet unconventional. And guess what - I *can* hear the Prince influence on a few tracks. So all apologies to Ms. Monae - I was too quick to judge (this is why I try to give everything at least two spins before writing it off).
18. The Roots (feat. Dice Raw) - "How I Got Over" How I Got Over (Okay Player)
Three words: "return to form." The Roots' body of work has been consistently good, but I admit that their last few records have been mixed bags. Not that they were bad, but they lacked the consistency of earlier discs like Do You Want More?!!!!??!, Illadelph Halflife and Things Fall Apart. How I Got Over is easily the group's best disc since at least 2002's Phrenology. There are some atypical guest appearances (Joanna Newsom, Monsters of Folk, that somehow work, sounding totally logical and natural. As always, the album is littered with social commentary. While the group's previous two records (2006's The Tipping Point and 2008's Rising Down) were generally dark in lyrical and musical tone, How I Got Over exudes a more positive vibe, one focusing on perseverance and triumph. Though I can't find the interview now, one Roots member (?uestlove or Black Thought, I believe) stated that The Tipping Point and Rising Down were reflective of the George W. Bush era, while How I Got Over is in some senses a snapshot of moving into Barack Obama's America. Musically, the album has a stronger soul element than previous efforts, almost a "Curtis Mayfield goes hip hop" sound. It makes perfect sense then, that The Roots' second project this year was Wake Up, a collaboration with vocalist John Legend (though I wasn't so taken with that album). As with M.I.A., The Roots lose some points for not including a download code with the vinyl edition, but I can overlook that given the quality of the music.
19. Cee-Lo Green - "F**k You" The Lady Killer (Elektra)
Undeniably the viral hit of the year. Sure, it's a bit of a novelty tune. Sure, absent the F-bomb it wouldn't have reached the level of success that it did. But you know what? It's a great track despite a pretty blatant pandering to shock value. Plus, it's Cee-Lo back on his own, redeeming himself from the slop of the second Gnarls Barkley album. To Cee-Lo's credit, The Lady Killer isn't another retro-'60s soul album, but has a somewhat wider breadth. (though the catchiest tracks do fall into that category). However, the radio friendly version ("Forget You") sounds so forced and awkward, and its regrettable that they even bothered trying to capitalize on a clean version of a song that's appeal is largely it's use of expletives. Speaking of awkward and regrettable, there was that Gwenyth Paltrow performance of "Forget You" on Glee (which I would in fact like to forget):
This week we had our departmental banquet, which is mainly a chance to recognize students who've done exceptional work for our departmental organizations. I was asked to make a mix, which I dutifully did. It went unused, but I'll still share it with you. Tracks are mostly from the past year or so, with a couple stretching a bit farther back.
I had no intentions of doing a decade-spanning mix. Then upon hearing my plan to review the decade on my radio show, a recipient of the year-end mix asked if I would be making a decade retrospective as well. Being the geek that I am, once I had that bee in my bonnet, I couldn't let it go. And here we are.
I had to go for a two-disc set. Disc one is more rock oriented whereas disc 2 is more dance oriented. Even so, these discs are far from comprehensive. There are many regrettable omissions (Scissor Sisters, Crystal Castles, CSS, Erykah Badu, Madlib, Brazilian Girls, Broadcast, She & Him, We are Scientists, The Bird and the Bee, Regina Spektor, Rainbow Arabia...). But cuts had to be made. Some of these were due to time, others to flow. The second disc was a bitch to put together, but I finally whittled it down and made it fit.
I will provide only the briefest of notes. A friend recently posted his top albums of the decade on Twitter, which forced concise reasons and justifications. I'll be about as brief.
1. Sigur Ros - Vaka (2002) One that I admittedly don't listen to much these days, though it is still incredible. A huge album for my friends and I that year. We left this playing while we slept each night during a debaucherous NYC trip. Also one of the best live shows I've ever seen.
2. Air - Playground Love (2000)
One of the last Air albums that I liked. The song (and album) so perfectly fit the mood of The Virgin Suicides.
3. Death Cab for Cutie - A Movie Script Ending (2001)
This will forever remind me of my time at WPTS and the fall of 2006, when I rediscovered the album.
4. M83 - Kim & Jessie (2008)
Great album, great band, great song. The oughts nod to the '80s.
5. Ra Ra Riot - Can You Tell (2008)
A favorite from 2008, a nearly perfect album.
6. Peter Bjorn and John - Young Folks (2007)
I've already heard this in the grocery store, but oh well. I don't mind whistling while buying my produce.
7. Radiohead - Idioteque (2000)
I'm not a huge Radiohead fan, but OK Computer and Kid A are all aces.
8. Bat For Lashes - What's a Girl To Do (2006)
Incredible expression of a very specific emotion. Also a great video that reminds me of dreams I've had:
9. The XX - Vcr (2009)
Another favorite from this year's debut by The XX. See 2009 mix notes for more.
10. +/- - Yo Yo Yo (Please Don't Fall in Love) (2002)
This made it onto nearly every mix I made in 2002 and 2003. Also another fond CMJ memory of seeing these folks in some club or another.
11. Santogold – L.E.S. Artistes (2008)
The big single from my favorite album of 2008.
12. MGMT – Electric Feel (2008)
I hear this pretty much every time I'm out in Pittsburgh, and I'm still pretty okay with that.
13. New Young Pony Club – Get Lucky (2007)
A 2007 favorite from this UK indie dance-rock outfit. Hoping their 2010 follow up is as good.
14. The Raveonettes - Heartbreak Stroll (2003)
From Chain Gang of Love, the first Raveonettes album I heard, and still my favorite.
15. Hot Hot Heat - Get in or Get Out (2002)
Good lord - a year's worth of memories associated with Hot Hot Heat's Make Up the Breakdown. CMJ 2002 shenanigans and post-'80s night gatherings among them. This band will always remind me of a friend who was obsessed with them at the time. This song also summed up my feelings about Pittsburgh circa 2003.
16. Ted Leo - Where Have All the Rude Boys Gone? (2003)
I've heard a few more recent Ted Leo records, but none of them have done much for me. Hearts of Oak remains a favorite though. One of the better bands WPTS brought in during my tenure there.
17. Phoenix - 1901 (2009)
Another favorite from the decade's final year. Ubiquitous. Catchy. Still rock out to this one despite the Cadillac commercial.
18. Spoon - You Got Yr. Cherry Bomb (2007)
I first heard Spoon when Catch the Moonlight came out. Each album sees them developing their craft - a trend that will hopefully continue with their January 2010 release. They also understand the importance of brevity, which applaud heartily.
19. The White Stripes - The Denial Twist (2005)
I mentioned on my radio show that I might have to pick Jack White for "artist of the decade." He's always got at least one project coming out every year, and I have yet to be disappointed. The White Stripes (four this decade), the Loretta Lynn record, the Raconteurs albums (two this decade), the Dead Weather, the Third Man record label and store, not to mention touring behind all of these acts as well. Get Behind Me Satan remains my favorite White Stripes record, and here's one reason why.
20. The Dresden Dolls - Sing (2006)
The first Dresden Dolls record was great. The second was far superior. They found their niche and perfected it on Yes Virgina. This song is one that has gradually stood out from the album in the course of three years. Just sing.
21. Flaming Lips - Do You Realize?? (2002)
Many memories associated with the Yoshimi album as well. Another huge one during the WPTS years. This song is at once joyous and tragic, but ultimately compels the listener to realize the value of life and time.
Disc 2
1. Snoop Dog feat. Pharrell - Drop It Like It's Hot (2004)
It was between this and "Sensual Seduction." This was the song that brought Snoop back into people's musical consciousness, including myself (though he certainly remained a focus in pop culture). I remember driving back to Iowa after Thanksgiving or Christmas that year, hearing this on the radio and exclaiming that the breakdown was right out of the Rick Rubin playbook.
2. Outkast - So Fresh, So Clean (2000)
So many Outkast songs to choose from. "Hey Ya!" is undoubtedly a decade-defining song. But I'm a little sick of it (which is not to say that I don't boogie down when I hear it). I intended to include "The Whole World," but time prevented its inclusion. Just as well. Stankonia is one of my very favorite albums of the decade, and one that holds up quite well as we enter the next.
3. Common - Go! (2005)
Truthfully, I have a deeper connection to Be's follow up, Finding Forever. But Be deserves every bit of praise it's received, and this song is probably the highlight of the album for me. A frequent soundtrack when I go out for a run.
4. Jamie Lidell - Multiply (2005)
The song that introduced me to Jamie Lidell, from the album of the same name. This and its follow up Jim are fantastic soul throwbacks, although Multiply is interesting in that it incorporates more musical styles.
5. Gnarls Barkley - Crazy (2006)
The "big hit" from my favorite album of 2006. I'm still not sick of hearing this one. I only wish that Cee-Lo and Dangermouse stopped with this album. By 2008's The Odd Couple, they'd run out of creative steam.
6. The Roots feat. Cody Chestnut - The Seed 2.0 (2002)
To the extent one can say that The Roots had a "hit," this is it. I think it was actually in a Mandy Moore movie, so I guess that seals the deal. Their best work resides in the previous decade, but they've put out a series of consistently pleasing albums in the oughts as well (Phrenolgy, Game Theory, Tipping Point and Rising Down).
7. Spank Rock feat. Amanda Blank - Bump (2006)
Baltimore's best. Easily in my top 5 hip hop albums of the decade. Perhaps second only to The Black Album.. Speaking of which -
8. Jay-Z - 99 Problems (2003)
A juggernaut. Imagine if Jay-Z actually had retired after this album. Talk about going out on top. Of course, he didn't hold to it, and has released three albums in the ensuing years. A boy's gotta eat.
9. Prince - Black Sweat (2006)
Across six albums, the best thing the man recorded this decade. Straddles the fence between sounding current and "this is obviously Prince" more effectively than anything else he put out in the aughts.
10. M.I.A. - Galang (2005)
The first time that I head M.I.A. was in a friend's car on a visit to Portland. It was one of the very few times in recent history that my legitimate response was "I've never heard anything like this." Two great albums (Arular and Kala), and I'm told work is beginning on the third. Count me in.
11. Lil Wayne - Lollipop (2008)
Honestly, Lil' Wayne is the best thing that's happened to mainstream hip hop in the latter part of the decade. No homo. Despite his personal issues, he's prolific, productive and in general, I think interesting. I'm not holding out hope on his upcoming rock album though.
12. Lady Gaga - Poker Face (2008)
I won't go into my Lady Gaga rant here. Most of you have heard it before. Just dance.
13. Nelly Furtado feat. Missy Elliot - Do It (remix) (2007)
This begins a three-track sequence of my favorite pop albums of the decade, though I can't rank among them. Nelly Furtado's Loose! (produced by Timbaland - producer of the decade?) is one of the best pop / party albums of the decade. Perfect for getting ready for a night on the town. I liked "Promiscuous." I loved "Maneater." "Do It" blew me away. This remix has the added bonus of a Missy cameo.
14. Gwen Stefani - What You Waiting For- (2004)
I've liked No Doubt since they hit it big with Tragic Kingdom. And I was pleased when they took a dancier direction with Rock Steady. But that didn't prepare me for Love Angel Music Baby. I played the hell out of this for a good 6-8 months. The follow up (The Sweet Escape) has some great tracks (especially the title cut), but pales in comparison.
15. Kylie Minogue - Can't Get You Out of My Head (2001)
It's a good thing we have people like Nelly, Gwen and Kylie, because god knows Madonna hasn't done anything relevant this decade. It baffles me that Kylie Minogue hasn't had more success Stateside. She had three great albums this decade (Fever, Body Language, X), of which Fever remains the strongest. It's poppy, danceable, sexy, and of course has some great videos (even aside from the eye candy that is Kylie).
16. Justice - D.A.N.C.E (2007)
These next two tracks carry with them memories of the fall of 2007 in Iowa. I was getting way into these albums while prepping for comps (boo). But finally got to boogie down to them at the party that followed the exam (yay!). They were also staples while getting amped for the Friday ritual of happy hour followed by karaoke. Ahh, good times. Anywho, this song in particular was one of the hottest tracks that year, and a tribute to the then-living Michael Jackson. Justice probably also gets my award for best TV appearance of the decade:
17. Chromeo - Bonafied Lovin (2007)
I know I mentioned how great the Furtado/Gwen/Kylie discs were, but Fancy Footwork is seriously the best party album released this decade. They've got a sense of humor, they've mastered the Minneapolis sound and they sure can get down. They've got a new one slated for summer 2010, and if the lead single is any indication, we will not be disappointed.
18. Cut Copy - Lights and Music (2008)
Lights and music are frequently on my mind. Add dancing to the mix, and this may well be my theme song. The big "hit" from the great synthy dance album In Ghost Colours. A friend commented that they're carrying the New Order torch, and I can't disagree with that. Hold it high, I say.
19. Daft Punk - One More Time (2001)
I once saw an interview with Chromeo where they referred to Daft Punk's Discovery album as the French Thriller. Granted, it wasn't an international chart-topping phenomenon that shattered age, gender and racial barriers. But I can say that amongst my friends and within the realm of college radio, calling this the Thriller of the decade is pretty accurate. Everyone had it, everyone loved it. It was all over the place - a fixture at dance parties, plenty of college airplay, a series of commercials. Also like Thriller, listening to this album immediately transports me to a very specific point in my life, and a flood of memories rush forth. Sadly, their output since has failed to live up to the precedent set by this album and it's predecessor Homework. Alas.
Friends, lovers, countrymen - another year is about to pass us by. How is this possible?
I admit I was nervous. By May, I felt that 2009 was letting me down. There just wasn't much in the way of music that moved me. But the summer and fall rectified that, and 2009 ended up churning out some pretty great tunes, some of which I am here to share with you. Once again, I found myself forced to shave seconds off of many song intros and outros just to fit it all onto one disc. And once again, I have succeeded. Rock on. However, my one disclaimer here is that I didn't have much time to devote to these notes. But it's all about the music anyway. And I look forward to hearing your mixes/reading your lists soon. Also, I plan on making a post reflecting on the entire decade in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for that.
Happy holidays, and may the funk be with you in 2010. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you:
Twisted and Deranged: 2009 in Song
1. The Raveonettes – “Gone Forever” In and Out of Control (Vice Records)
The Raveonettes returned with the follow-up to 2007’s Lust Lust Lust (featured on that year’s annual mix). Like it’s predecessor, In and Out of Control doesn’t cover a whole lot of new ground, but that doesn’t make it a bad album. Admittedly, some songs are perhaps poppier than most of the band’s material (the singles “Bang” and “Last Dance,” for example), but they are still quite good, incredibly catchy, and downright enjoyable tunes. I do like the bits where they let noise take over (as in Lust’s “Aly, Walk With Me”), and the first portion of “Gone Forever” captures that well. I also feel like the Raveonettes are at their best when they’re in a minor key, with excessive reverb on the guitars and vocals, adding up to an overall ominous song quality. “Gone Forever” is a winner there. Official Website On MySpace
Either the Arctic Monkeys haven’t done anything to impress me up to this point, or I just haven’t been paying attention. I heard this song in heavy rotation on KRUI. I liked it the first time I heard it, but it really sucked me in by the third or fourth listen. I love the structure of the song, the complementary way the chorus plays off of the verse, and the buildup of Alex Turner’s vocals. For some reason, my fantasy mind can hear David Bowie doing this with Iggy Pop during the Berlin period. Humbug is a solid listen throughout, and I know must retrace my steps and check out their previous albums. Official Website On MySpace
3. The Dead Weather – “I Cut Like a Buffalo” Horehound (Third Man)
Another year, another Jack White project. Seriously, every year that I make one of these mixes, there’s some sort of Jack White production that warrants representation. With The Dead Weather, we have the rhythm section of White’s *other* side project, The Raconteurs (who in turn came from The Greenhornes), The Kills’ Alison Mosshart and White (on drums!!!!). Frankly, it’s a perfect match up. I aimed to include “Treat Me Like Your Mother,” but opted for “I Cut Like a Buffalo” due to time constraints. No matter. This a wonderfully weird track (how in fact, does one cut like a buffalo?), accompanied by a video showcasing Jack White’s patented brand of creepy:
4. Bat For Lashes – “Daniel” Two Suns (Astralwerks)
I was a pretty big fan of Bat for Lashes’ 2007 debut, Fur and Gold, but Two Suns offers a more consistent and richly textured album. Although this saw release early in the year, “Daniel” became one of my most played tracks of fall 2009. And to be honest, it may be the track on this mix that I’ve listened to more than any other. The rhythm, emotional vibe and Natasha Khan’s hauntingly beautiful vocals give this one a lot of replay value in my book (er, on my digital music device). Official Website On MySpace
5. The XX – “Shelter” The XX (XL Recordings)
The XX's self-titled debut not only gets my seal of approval, but also stands as my top pick for 2009. They have a mellow, almost atmospheric vibe (Wikipedia describes them as “dream pop,” whatever that means), and I openly admit that I have a soft spot for male/female vocal interplay. The album is mellow, sparse and moody in equal measure. I highly recommend checking it out.
I’ve never been a huge fan of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, but I’ve always liked them pretty well. Listening to 2009’s It’s Blitz, this song immediately struck a chord . It’s a ridiculously beautiful, fragile track that has what I would call a cinematic quality to it. I can just see this being used to great effect on some especially emotionally draining episode of Six Feet Under or something like that. It also has this slow, progressive build that adds to its ultimate intensity. I don’t know, I’m just a big softy.
7. Antony & the Johnsons – “Kiss My Name” The Crying Light (Secretly Canadian)
I’ve heard a few Antony tracks over the years, but never paid them much mind. Earlier this year, I was hipped to 2008’s Hercules and Love Affair project, which I liked quite a bit. Shortly after, I caught Antony and the Johnsons performing “Aeon” on David Letterman:
Watching this performance, it finally clicked – I felt like I got it. In checking out The Crying Light LP, I immediately became a fan. I admit that part of it is a fascination with Antony’s performance of gender (if pop music scholars aren’t writing on this already, they will be very soon). But more than that, it’s the emotion and the richness of many songs’ arrangements that make The Crying Light one of my favorite albums of 2009.
8. Thao with the Get Down Stay Down – “When We Swam” Know Better Learn Faster (Kill Rock Stars)
Double-entendre I’m sure, but I can’t quite make out the metaphor completely. Thao with the Get Down Stay Down hail from San Francisco, and have put out four records since 2005. Thao has also done some solo work and collaborations with other artists. Go figure, I never heard of them until this fall. I know that this comes as a shock given my perennial hipness, but even old Gonzo misses a beat now and again. I don’t really have much else to say here, but it’s a good album.
9. YACHT – “Psychic City” See the Mystery Lights (DFA Records)
Another ditty that’s been in heavy rotation on KRUI. What’s odd is that this song reminds me of Iowa City, but clearly I didn’t live there while the song was out, and I wasn’t aware of it during my visit. That association is either a byproduct of hearing it on KRUI, or a suggestion that KRUI has a “sound.” Or both. But I digress. I took to the song pretty immediately, and made hearing the album a priority once I learned who the artist was. The See Mystery Lights album tends stick with this indie rock dance vibe, which I can totally get down with. And in Claire Evans’ vocals, I hear echoes of The Waitresses’ Patty Donahue. I like.
10. Phoenix – “1901” Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix (Glass Note)
Count me among the many who had never heard Phoenix until 2009. And if we’re going strictly on the number spins each album received, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix would probably win my pick for album of the year. But I already gave my top spot to The XX. However, I can say without doubt that “1901” was *the* song of 2009. The single started making the rounds months ahead of the album’s release, with a flood of remixes to follow (at the band’s urging). I definitely got sucked into the (well-deserved) hype, and sought it out pretty immediately upon release (shout out to Paul’s CDs). It’s a great, straightforward rock record that veers towards pop, but manages to do so without losing integrity. I admit I was a little upset that it took practically no time for this to happen:
…but on the other hand, I kind of expected it. Nonetheless, still a great album, and a great tune. Official Website On MySpace
11. The Bird and the Bee – “Love Letter to Japan” Rayguns Are Not Just the Future (Blue Note)
The Bird and the Bee were a late entry on the first of my annual mixes back in 2006. In the interim, they’ve put out a few EPs with somewhat mixed results. Their second full length, Ray Guns Are Not Just the Future is an equally mixed bag. It’s not that they’re putting out bad material, just that the ”Bird and the Bee sound” as a whole doesn’t seem to be progressing very much. They’re still delightful, I’d just like to see some evolution. And that is likely why this little gem captivates me. Lyrics aside, my take home message from this song is "don't give up on The Bird and the Bee just yet."
12. Annie – “My Love Is Better” Don’t Stop (Smalltown Supersound)
We have now officially entered the dance portion of the 2009 mix . At long last, we have the follow up to the Scandanavian pop princess’s debut Anniemalism. After multiple delays and leaks, the wait for Don’t Stop was worth it (although absent is last year’s single “I Know Your Girlfriend Hates Me”). This is electro dance pop at its finest. The ballads don’t work nearly as well as the dance numbers, but the strengths of the latter outweigh the weaknesses of the former. It would be perhaps too easy to label Annie the 21st century Norwegian Kylie Minogue. But I just did anyway.
14. Kid Cudi – “Make Her Say” (Feat. Kanye West and Common) Man on the Moon: The End of the Day (Motown)
I had to work Lady GaGa in here somewhere. While “Poker Face” probably gets my vote for best Top 40 jam of the year, this reimagining by Kid Kudi, Kanye and Common takes the song to the next level. I’ve never been much a fan of Kanye West. Frankly, I think his own work is overrated, but every once in a while he does something that I love (though usually it’s a production credit). I’d also like to go on record as saying that Common is probably the only rapper that can utter a line like “get up on this conscious dick.” Kid Cudi’s debut album isn’t an amazing piece of work, but this and the inclusion of last year’s single “Day N Nite” make the album worthwhile, and make me think he’s someone to keep an eye on.
15. Major Lazer feat. Mr. Lex and Santigold –“ I'll Make Ya” Guns Don’t Kill People…Lazers Do (Downtown)
I’m pretty into the respective production styles of Diplo and Switch. So when I caught wind that they were producing a reggae/dancehall record, I was amped. This was definitely my jammin'-out-in-the-car disc for summer 2009. It could stand some editing, but there are some real bangers on the album, this one included. I believe this premiered on their MySpace page, but when I saw Santogold/Santigold earlier this summer, she played a bit of it live, only further raising my anticipation. Speaking of bangers and Santigold…
16. N.A.S.A. – “Whatchadoin?” Feat. Spank Rock, MIA, Santogold, Nick Zinner The Spirit of Apollo (Anti)
Holy hell. I have to give credit to Markadelphia over at IckMusic for hipping me to this one. Mark wrote a glowing review of the record, and in particular the Karen O., Fatlip and ODB track “Strange Enough.” That track is great, but “Whatchadoin?” and its all-star lineup are what sealed the deal for me on the N.A.S.A. record. On this track, we have Baltimore’s own Spank Rock, MIA, Santogold and Nick Zinner. I admit I know nothing about Nick Zinner. But just the thought of this collaboration had my mind reeling. And the track itself does not disappoint. The rest of the album is a similarly star-studded affair. N.A.S.A. man the DJing and production duties, while vocals are taken up by the likes of David Byrne, Chuck D., Method Man, Chali 2na, RZA, Kool Keith, Tom Waits, Lykke Li, Del, Ghostface and more. It’s the all star jam of the year. Not infallible, but pretty damn good throughout.
17. Amanda Blank – “Might Like You Better” I Love You (Downtown)
Speaking of Spank Rock, his frequent sidekick Amanda Blank dropped her solo debut this year as well. Actually, she opened for Santogold, and that little taste of the album got me pretty excited. I didn’t even realize that the core of this song is lifted from a Romeo Void track (thanks, Mike C. for bringing this to light). Blank is definitely running with the crass and explicit lyrics she contributed to the Spank Rock tracks, and that is a-ok with me. She also does an on-point cover of “Make Up” by Vanity 6. Way to win me over.
18. Kid Sister – “Life on TV” Ultraviolet (Downtown)
Another oft-delayed and much anticipated release, we finally got the debut from Chicago’s Kid Sister this year. Kid Sister is one of those artists who successfully generated an internet buzz via MySpace and the blogosphere, particularly with her Kanye west collaboration “Pro Nails” (which even made it onto Comcast’s On Demand service). Kid Sister bills herself as a rapper, though I think that’s not an entirely accurate characterization of her music. I’d say she’s more pop with hip hop leanings. There were a number of tracks slated for inclusion on my little mix, but I ultimately chose this one because a) “Pro Nails” is a little old at this point b) this one just flowed best in the mix and c) I’m a media scholar, and it’s about TV. I won’t lie, one of my first thoughts upon hearing it was “This would be a good prelude to the TV lecture in my 101 course.” And so it shall be, next semester.
19. Felix Da Housecat – “We All Wanna Be Prince” He Was King (Nettwerk Records)
It goes without saying that this floored me when I first encountered it. It’s a blatant homage that unabashedly lifts nearly every move from the Prince playbook, including constant lyrical references to Prince jams. And it works so damn well. I mean, listen to that little moan in the song’s intro! Felix really constructed a tribute that succesfully capture the sound of the 1999 era. Besides such perfect execution of Prince’s style, what I love about this song is that truer words were never spoken – we do all wanna be Prince! At least I do.
20. Alan Wilkis – “N.I.C.E.” Pink and Purple (Wilcassettes)
Last year, Alan Wilkis released his debut album, Babies Dream Big. You may recall that the album’s track “It’s Been Great” made last year’s list. This summer, Alan dropped an EP that was even better than Babies, and was for all intents and purposes, right up my alley. With Pink and Purple, Wilkis embraces his funkiness whole-heartedly, incorporating influences from the late 1970s and 1980s such as Prince, MJ, the Gap Band and Rick James (among others). The result is a head-bobbin’, body-movin’ set can, would and should have you dancing. Alan was kind enough to chat with me earlier in the summer – check out our discussion for some insight into Pink and Purple. Alan has also been hard at work on a slew of great remixes – keep your eyes peeled on this blog to catch a listen.
Aceyalone-The Lonely Ones (Deconstruction) Camera Obscura-My Maudlin Career (4AD) El Michaels Affair-Enter the 37th Chamber (Fatbeats) M. Ward-Hold Time (Merge) Maxwell-Blacksummer’s Night (Columbia) Rainbow Arabia-Kabukimono (Manimal) Sonic Youth-The Eternal (Matador) The Very Best-Warm Heart of Africa (Green Owl Records)
Yesterday was the Pittsburgh Marathon. I'd been looking forward to this for a number of reasons. 1) After Baltimore, I was amped to have another go at 26.2 2) It's PITTSBURGH! The Steel City! The City of Bridges! The City of Champions! And my hometown! I've been fighting what I think is a mild case of plantar fasciitis for a few weeks, which killed the tail end of my training and made me nervous as to how the race would go. But it went, and with little problems. The biggest difficulty was the endurance of the last 6 or so miles, especially given that I've been running so little for the last few weeks (and my training topped out at 18 miles). But I did it, and I'm pleased as punch (and sore as hell). Baltimore was significant because it was the first (and you never forget your first). Pittsburgh was special because it's home. We pounded through many of my favorite neighborhoods, through my undergraduate alma mater and over a few bridges (unavoidable in this town). So despite it being difficult on account of the spotty training and some moderate rain, it was a pretty stellar day.
But enough with all of that. What I'm here to share is what I listened to for 26.2 miles. I've said it before and I'll say it again - I don't think that I could have done it without the music. So here's what made the cut for the Pittsburgh Marathon playlist:
1. Iggy Pop - Real Wild Child
I didn't realize until I was running that the last marathon mix also began with Iggy (that one was "Lust for Life"). Wasn't planned, but maybe Iggy Pop is good luck.
2. Ted Leo/Pharmacists - Where Have All the Rude Boys Gone? 3. Jet - Are You Gonna Be My Girl
Speaking of "Lust for Life," I know that the Jet song is so obviously a ripoff, but I think it's done well, and to be honest, it doesn't even bother me. I look at it as more of a pastiche than a blatant copy.
4. Hot Hot Heat - Talk to Me, Dance With Me 5. New Young Pony Club - The Get Go 6. CSS - Jager Yoga 7. Hyper Crush - Shes a Freak
I haven't listened to the Hyper Crush album (last year's The Arcade since August (I distinctly remember listening to it on a run during a visit to Portland, OR). I think that it can get tired after a while, but it was rather refreshing having not heard it for so long, and this was one of the first songs to really get me moving.
8. Simian Mobile Disco - Hustler 9. Crystal Castles - Crimewave 10. New Order - True Faith-94 11. Cut Copy - Hearts On Fire
I think I've played "Lights and Music" to death at this point, and this has taken its place as my go-to track from last year's In Ghost Colours. I love the little break that's sort of a quotation of a hundred late 1980s hip hop songs.
12. Kylie Minogue/New Order - Can't Get Blue Monday Out Of My Head
I needed a good Kylie track (when don't I?), and opted for this mashup, included on the recently released Boom Box remix compilation. I was very into mashups for a year or two when I first got to Iowa, but the novelty wore off. But with Kylie and New Order, how can you go wrong?
The monotony and solid beat were perfect for pacing.
14. Justice - D.A.N.C.E.
One of the few repeats from the Baltimore marathon mix.
15. T.I. - Swagga Like Us (Ft. Kanye West, Jay Z & Lil Wayne)
"Swagga-swagga like us."
16. Messy Marv - Get on My Hype 17. Dr Dre - Still D.R.E 18. Notorious B.I.G. - Notorious B.I.G. feat Lil Kim and Puff Daddy 19. Ol' Dirty Bastard - I Can't Wait 20. Spank Rock - What It Look Like 21. The Prodigy (feat. Kool Keith) - Diesel Power
I can't say that the Prodigy album is in heavy (or even moderate) rotation these days, but it still hits the spot on occasion. And this collaboration with Kool Keith remains one of, potentially THE highlight of their big album, The Fat of the Land. This was also roundabouts when it started raining. BOOOO
22. David Bowie - Dead Man Walking I took a walk break when this song came on, then had a good chuckle and the serendipity.
23. Nelly Furtado - No Hay Igual 24. Rainbow Arabia - Omar K 25. M.I.A. - Jimmy 26. George Michael - Outside 27. Sheila E - Holly Rock
"Holly Rock" has become a running staple in the last 6 months or so. First of all, it's Sheila mothafuckin' E. Second of all, it rocks. I've never been able to confirm Prince's involvement in this track. The ASCAP database lists her as the sole writer, but there are so many Prince-esque elements (especially the sped-up guitar). I'll have to dig through those Prince books when I get back to Baltimore.
28. Prince - Tick, Tick, Bang (original demo) 29. Prince - High 30. Prince - Chocolate Box
First Prince set! The 1981 demo of "Tick Tick Bang" is far more high energy and electro-based than what would surface on the Graffiti Bridge album 9 years later. "High" is a recent rediscovery from an unfortunately unreleased 2000 album. And "Chocolate Box," well - one of the hottest tracks from his latest effort.
31. Red Hot Chili Peppers - Suck My Kiss 32. Faith No More - Falling to Pieces
Back to the Rock. "Falling to Pieces" was the first song to which I found myself mouthing all of the lyrics. I probably seemed borderline schizo mumbling "somebody put me together" to myself.
33. Kiss - Parasite 34. Misfits - Where Eagles Dare 35. The Damned - Neat Neat Neat 36. The Clash - Police on My Back
Sandanista! - you never get old. "Running Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday, Sunday." Granted, I was not being chased by the police.
37. New York Dolls - Trash 38. The White Stripes - Girl, You Have No Faith in Medicine 39. The Stooges - Loose
Stay tuned to Ick Music for my review of the new New York Dolls album, which includes a rerecorded version of the classic "Trash." The White Stripes song was a perfect choice, and a great lead-in to The Stooges. Is "Loose" the best song on Fun House? I'm starting to think that might be the case. 40. Sonic Youth - Kool Thing 41. Anthrax - Bring the Noise 42. Public Enemy - Welcome to the Terrordome
PE's original of "Bring the Noise" is a superior recording, but Anthrax adds the edge that I needed to kick it up a notch. PE is another of my favorite artists all around for running, though I included fewer tracks this time around. No disrespect, boys.
43. The Roots - Boom! 44. Run-D.M.C. - Run's House 45. LL Cool J - Jack the Ripper 46. A Tribe Called Quest - Scenario 47. 2 Pac - Fuck the World 48. Digital Underground - Doowutchyalike
Hip hop set. It was difficult, but I refrained from shouting "WHO'S HOUUUUUUUSEE?????" out loud. The 2 Pac track - I figured that was how I'd feel at this point in the day (fairly accurate!). And DU, well, shit. Runhowyalike.
49. Janet Jackson - Control
A huge pickmeup. I almost went for "Black Cat," but "Control" won out. The full video for this was recently On Demand - featuring Jam, Lewis and Jerome?! Holy carp.
50. En Vogue - Free Your Mind 51. C+C Music Factory - Gonna Make You Sweat 52. TLC - What About Your Friends
Some early 1990s goodness. Oh, TLC. VH1 Classic informed me that yesterday was the anniversary of Lisa Left Eye Lopez' funeral. I might actually make a TLC post soon based on what I see as their stylistic similarities to Prince. No promises. 53. Bobby Brown - On Our Own
I recently read Don't Stop Believin': How Karaoke Conquered the World and Changed My Life by Brian Raftery. Awesome book, highly recommended. Raftery contends that "On Our Own" is an ideal karaoke song. I've had it on my list for years, but never got around to it. It is a tight jam, Ghostbusters II references and all. Maybe I should be sure to pull this one out at my next karaoke outing. "Y-y-ya know it."
54. Michael Jackson - Jam
Dangerous is NOT my favorite MJ album by any stretch. The ballads are horrible ("Heal the World," "Will You Be There," "Gone Too Soon"), and overall, the album doesn't hold up well, given it's extremely dated arrangements and production. But it has its nostalgic charms, given that Teddy Riley is at the helm, new jack swinging it all over the damn place. To that end, I will say that the album has some of the best running tracks in MJ's catalog, and "Jam" is up there for sure.
Michael Jordan, Heavy D, AND Kriss Kross? No, not dated at all!
55. Prince - Billy Jack Bitch (5:31) 56. Prince - Acknowledge Me (5:27) 57. Prince - Days of Wild (9:19) 58. Prince - Hot Thing (Extended Remix) (8:26)
More Prince, of course. I suppose "Jam" led me to follow it with "Acknowledge Me," which one could argue is Prince does New Jack Swing. "Days of Wild" is a little less dated, and was another song that I mouthed all of the words to. Hopefully nobody around me was paying attention as I said things like "Dont blame it on a jockstrap full of jizz." "Hot Thing" is a dance classic, and this 12" mix is pure fire. PURE FIRE.
61. Santogold - Say Aha 62. Pixies - Broken Face 63. Buzzcocks - What Do I Get?
Skipped. I needed to get to a high octane power song. Ergo: 64. Hedwig and the Angry Inch - Tear Me Down
This was just what the doctor ordered. Loud guitars, thumping drums, and a dash of glam. This was a swift kick in the pants, and put me into gear more than I had been at this point.
Enemies and adversaries they try and tear me down You want me, baby, I dare you try and tear me down.
This kept it going. Remember how Axl used to run all around the stage? That's what I was thinking of in the final stretch while this played. The bombasticness (I think I just made up that adjective) of the song did me well running down Penn Ave. in the Strip.
66. Van Halen - And The Cradle Will Rock... 67. Van Halen - Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love 68. Van Halen - Panama
All great songs, but skipped. I figured I had one song left, and had to get to my VH standby:
69. Van Halen - Unchained
This is it, the tune that took me across the finish line. "Unchained" has been a running staple for about a year, when one of my best pals praised VH as some of the best cardio music on the planet. He was right.
I had 13 more songs planned just in case, but fortunately didn't need them. Next time!
