Showing posts with label motivation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label motivation. Show all posts
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Don't Disappoint Us Now
Shame inevitably floods my face when I am reminded of the time I was at the remarkable Ooze Records off of Burnside In SW Portland with Jeff during some random escape from school during the spring term of 1990. Sometimes we would take the two hour bus trek from Forest Grove into Portland just to find some sense of civilization despite our lack of money and the dreaded four hour round trip journey. It was on this particular day, when I was flipping through the strange dangling red rack filled with CD covers representing their stock. This was when there were actually record stores and when those record stores mainly displayed vinyl, while the CDs were often kept behind the counter to prevent shoplifting. Yes, CDs were still that strange and special. At any rate, when I reached the J’s, I ran across a Goddamn import copy of Factory Records’ first posthumous Joy Division release Still actually and finally on CD! It had not previously been available on CD at all. All I had was a terrible used copy of the double LP, and yet, here it was all pretty and shiny and new for only $20! My heart began to race, I started to shake, and sweat spread across my forehead, because I only had $10 on me and really no hope of getting my hands on any money in the near future. My thoughts became frantic in an unhealthy way, where I became certain that this was indeed the only copy of this collection that I would ever find on this resilient format (which, of course, would be forever). I held the cover in my hand and tapped Jeff on the shoulder with it. He responded with a ‘too bad it is $20’ shrug and a look of concern for my health – maybe wondering if I was having a stroke or a heart attack. I wandered over to the girl, who I think owned the store, or was at least always there, and inquired about the possibility of laying it away like some piece of expensive furniture at a department store. Maybe I was going to sell myself on the street for some extra scratch just so I could get that damn CD (of which I already owned almost every song on CD from the Substance compilation released in 1988!!!). She smiled at me incredulously, and appropriately didn’t respond with anything more than a negative nod. Sadly, I had to return the cover to its place on the rack and hurry back to the bus before our transfers expired, with no hope of securing that CD any time in the near future.
What’s sadder is that I did make it back eventually and purchased that CD early in the summer of ’90, when I then ran across The Go-Betweens’ second album Before Hollywood on CD for the first time and up to that point I had only read about its amazing delicacies previously, so it was especially needed. The entire breakdown happened all over again. Luckily, this time, I had been working my summer job and was able to afford the second expensive disc.
Is this a sign of simple rampant consumerism? Is this a case of a spoiled kid who never grew past the stage of believing that all of my wants need to be taken care of immediately, or else a tantrum will be thrown? Well, yes, but I am not that way with anything else in my life and I don’t really understand any of it. Much of the time, when I think about it, I try to get rid of stuff. I know my tendency to collect “things” that I love, so I try not to do that – except with music.
For the last year or more, I’ve been questioning my motivations behind almost everything that I do. These little queries have reared their ugly heads on this blog before - going back to the previous unfocused malaise entry from January (seen here: 100 Resolutions) and as long ago as January of 2012 (seen here: This is Our Emergency) and yet I still find myself pretty lost as to why I do what I do. Maybe it’s my middle age crisis happening for the umpteenth time. Why do I write and feel compelled to share what I write? Why do I have more in common with people with illicit addictions, when it comes to music, than I would ever really want to believe?
When it comes to music, people often assume that I am a musician, when they learn of my passion for it. This is so far from reality that it’s laughable. I have not been blessed with any kind of aptitude. I have tried to play different instruments half-heartedly over the years and have taken a stab at writing song lyrics, but it has always been terrible at best. So, in my little way, I have tried to be the best audience member I can be. I try to support the artists I appreciate by actually buying their music (often directly from the source), attending shows when they come through town, by sharing their music with friends via mix tapes and CDs. In fact, I still do these things.
When I started college, the aforementioned Jeff and I forced our way into a twice weekly radio show on the campus station: KPUR 94.5 FM (“Music with Imagination”) and quickly station management. Though we only had a few listeners each week, we had incredible fun until our enthusiasm petered out come spring time. Fortunately, or unfortunately, a few tapes that were recorded by our friend Marcy still exist today, though we cannot seem to pay anyone to bear to listen to these historical artifacts (most of our friends are too smart, I suppose).
When I left school, Wil and I started our This Wreckage fanzine, allowing me to write about music in an attempt to get involved with music, until that excitement and freshness wore off under the realization that most people don’t have time to pay attention to such nonsense (though I still carry on my meager music musings in this blog with old favorite album pieces and year end best of lists).
Then, it was back to school in Seattle, where I learned about sound engineering, before getting derailed by health issues.
The next step was to start a record label! With no money or any real idea of how to do it, Ox and I found ourselves trying to manufacture, promote and distribute a vinyl single by the magical Buddha on the Moon (find the music here: bandcamp or here: discogs).
Then after years of dormancy, we set out again down the path of “record label” and financed a release by the under heard UK band Decoration (found here: cdbaby or discogs), as well as starting up a fledgling online music retail store under the same name as the label, before the expense and effort became too much to be able to maintain along with full time jobs.
As each of these attempts at getting involved with music have come and gone, I find that, though I’m proud of each experience, had a lot of fun, and do not regret any of it – except not returning to pursue the sound engineering education I had started - none of it really has placed me where I would like to be. Maybe it’s because what I enjoy doing and what I do to make a living never seem to intersect. Maybe I am simply using my love of music to fill in some gaping holes in my life which need to be addressed. Whatever the case may be, I will continue searching and continue to find solace in the music, because that is what seems to make my world go round.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
100 Resolutions
“Where have I been all your life?
Sitting on fences, a Novocain for all the senses
Another year will pass us by
Making sense of nothing in defense of something
I laughed too late and dug myself into a grave”
7:58 AM 3rd floor
Filling out more health history paperwork. I can fill these things out in my sleep. I love how on the MRI questionnaire, they ask if you’ve had surgery (yes, or no) and if so, “list.” The space given for “list” is tiny. It always makes me laugh, though I would hope that most people check ‘no.’ I’ve developed a special method of providing all of my past surgeries using a tiny shorthand to squeeze all the info into the single spaced line provided, despite knowing that no one ever looks at these things. This morning I am distracted by one of the receptionists at the radiology desk. She is really really pretty, her smile is friendly, her voice is amazing and she’s dressed up like people just don’t generally do much anymore. Why do I have such a thing for medical receptionists? I spent a good part of last summer trying to win over my nephrologists’ receptionist who also happened to be in the bowling league I temporarily joined. That didn’t go well, and now, I’m sure that my constant glancing at this receptionist over the top of the clipboard in my hand is completely creeping her out. I’m waiting for a quiet moment to return the useless form to her, but the steady stream of fellow scan patients keep flowing in. It seems odd to me that there are so many people scheduled for MRI’s, CT scans, ultrasounds, PET Scans, and the like and that the waiting room was designed to only allow for a few feet of space for patients to wait in line between the “Stop Here for Patient Confidentiality” sign and the door into the clinic (Really? Like we can’t hear any conversation from 4 feet away? Is this TV world where side conversations seem to go unnoticed by people in the same room?). It amazes and saddens me that these places are so busy at all.
8:16 AM 3rd floor
The MRI tech brought me to the changing room area, where I would normally dump all of my things and climb into my favorite tie-in-the-back dressing gown and a pair of grey grippy socks. Instead I was told to wait here until the radiologist could come ask me some questions. After all of these years, I don’t think I’ve actually ever spoken with a radiologist. I normally deal with the techs and those dreamy receptionists. One other person has already gotten started, as one of the eight changing rooms has clothes piled up on the bench. I’m sitting directly across from the clothes in the room opposite with the curtain open wondering why this person didn’t use one of the lockers that are provided. I’m also wondering if I should be using one of the lockers. Maybe I misunderstood? Maybe I’m supposed to be getting changed? They didn’t give me a gown. An attractive blond woman, the apparent owner of the clothes, strides by from the scanning area and is startled by my presence as she catches sight of me in her periphery. Once again, I feel like an unbelievable creep, sitting silently in a changing room with the curtain open. It’s unfortunate, because I’m harmless and was placed here through circumstance. Somehow, I don’t think it would’ve helped my case if I had sat in here with the curtain drawn. I’ll just keep my head lowered writing this while I wait for the radiologist. The woman across the way changes quickly and rushes out the door. Maybe security will greet me soon instead.
9:57 AM 1st floor
Another MRI done. This one was quicker than usual. Maybe advances in technology are finally speeding these things up. The jackhammer noises seem a little softer around the edges. I used to imagine that these sounds were a source of inspiration for the old industrial bands I used to like so much back in the late 80s and early 90s and that I could hear music inside the noise. The vice grip cage around the head and claustrophobic oppression of the machine have not changed, however, which leaves the oppression and discomfort at high levels. After doing these things for the last 20 plus years though, I just doze off nowadays.
My new receptionist crush was not at the desk once I was released. I was going to ask her to validate my parking (I remember when I used to love turning almost any sentence into terrible double entendres), in lieu of actually asking her out or engaging her in any kind of personal way in order to save her from my general terribleness. Too bad. Now do I go grab a quick bite to eat at the café or keep sitting around in the lobby unintentionally spooking out more innocent bystanders? Since the IV contrast always leaves me feeling full and mildly nauseous, I think I’ll keep writing until my next appointment.
What am I going to do with this year? I suppose if the results of my MRI are bad, my year will be waylaid by some surgery or a procedure with more radiation, but I’m pretty sure everything will be stable. What concerns me though is that the turn of the calendar generally comes with some optimism. It offers a chance to reflect on what has passed and what kind of goals I’d like to achieve during the upcoming year. Instead, I am left feeling completely adrift. I’ve never been a New Year’s Resolution kind of person, but I like to have a few general goals to focus on during the date change. Last year I was focused on being more social and active and I was. I was out and about last year more than I’ve been since I was in my twenties, but by the time the rainy and cold weather arrived with darkness, I have found myself wanting to avoid almost any kind of interaction. Last year, I had hopes that my job would continue to improve and help me find some kind of financial stability, but by the end of the year, my job had me feeling stressed, irritated, and broke – despite working a relentless schedule. Last year I had planned on doing a lot more writing, and I did. I wrote and completed at least a piece every couple of weeks and I spent a huge amount of time at the end of the year writing about my favorite music of 2012, and it all left me wondering why I write at all. I’m not very good, I don’t generally enjoy the process, and when I do share it, about 85% of the traffic to the blog site comes from some spam website. All of this has been very discouraging. I honestly don’t know what to do next. Some friends have mentioned that writing a journal might help get my weird need to write out of my system, so that’s why I brought a pad of paper and a pen with me today, but journaling in the past has always been fleeting after I tire of berating myself on paper for a few entries. Not sure what to do. Not sure what to look forward to. I need a spark. I need a resolution.
10:24 AM 8th floor
Neurosurgery waiting room and another useless form on a clipboard. This time the receptionist is some twenty something guy who called me “bro,” which always brings a smile to my face. He then gets up and leaves. I wonder if he was really an employee. He seemed too friendly. I have always hated this specific appointment. It has very little to do with any potential nerves regarding my test results, but everything to do with the pain of the appointment itself. Everything about visiting this doctor has always been terrible. The scheduling process with “Todd” is always difficult, frustrating and awful. This time it only took about three weeks to get something set, but there have been times when getting an MRI and follow-up has taken 15 to 20 calls to achieve. He rarely answers his phone and when he does, he is always short and mildly rude before declaring that he will call back with the appointment times. This rarely actually happens. Once the appointment has been secured, the visit itself has always been an ordeal. It generally starts with the useless form and an epic wait before finally being led back to an exam room by a nursing assistant who collects vital signs and asks questions that were on the form about medications and pain levels before lying about how the doctor will see me in a few minutes. I have previously written about a typical wait in these exam rooms before (seen here), which can become so long and harrowing that I am not sure that I leave with all of my faculties. When the doctor actually arrives, he brings with him an air of a major God Complex and four or five students. He did do an amazing job with the dangerous brain cyst removal when I was quickly and painfully losing my motor skills, so I do feel a fondness for him, despite his demeaning arrogance (Stockholm syndrome?). Actually the last few years, he hasn’t even bothered to spend those two minutes with me telling me that there have not been any significant changes with the six cysts that they are monitoring. Instead a few students have been sent in to do this effortless deed, along with confusing and inaccurate information, since they have no idea who I am.
I set the clipboard on the unguarded receptionists’ desk and wonder if the entire staff went out for brunch. I should be thankful. This is still better than the alternative. This 7+ year stretch without a surgery is the longest I’ve gone without since my first 13 years.
lyric quote from the Lawrence Arms
Labels:
doctors,
journaling,
life,
medical receptionists,
motivation,
mri,
neurosurgeon,
New Year,
resolutions,
scans,
the lawrence arms,
waiting room,
writing
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Top Albums of 2006 & 2007
Now that we have reached the final month of 2012, I have turned my focus toward my annual and, unfortunately, ever expanding need to share my favorite music of each year. I've started making notes and am preparing to write about each release that moved me this year, and I am finding it difficult. Not only is writing about music difficult and counter-intuitive, it can be frustrating. It's frustrating, because I am not sure what my motivation is. I am not particularly good at it, nor do I have any aspirations to be, but I do love the music and I have a strange need to both organize and document everything that I've purchased throughout the year. Mainly though, I want to share the excitement and deep feelings that I experience from these songs. I want to do my small part in spreading the word, despite my lack of eloquence and an audience.
That takes care of the motivation part, but not the pain of actually squeezing coherent words out of me about this music. Surprisingly, while at a crossroads the other day about whether or not to bother with the list this year, I ran across some old file that had two years worth of lists on it. I think these were each posted originally on Myspace. What really struck me is that it's clear that my dilemma is one that I battle each year. 2007's list is purely a list with zero descriptives about why I like those records, while 2006 is filled with them. Strangely, it was this fact, along with some simple loose paragraphs describing my favorites of 2006 that kind of re-energized me. I thought I'd share them here, as I go back to work on what was great about 2012. All of these albums are still worth checking out, by the way!
Top albums of 2006
Overall, 2006 has been a crappy year for me. Sure some of my best friends went out and had some kids this year, but I also lost someone very dear to me. In addition, I quit my job and gave up any idea that I might one day feel healthy again. Even the Portland Timbers played like pansies. Normally, during times such as these, music becomes a powerful resource of inspiration and reflection for me, but this year has generally been a terrible year for music. I don't know if it's because I'm getting older and less impressionable, or if I'm simply missing the boat on things, but I haven't bought this few albums in a year since I turned 14 (ever since I was old enough to whore myself out to some job in order to earn money to buy music). Don't get me wrong, I am certain that there are thousands of really cool things I would enjoy if I had exposure to them, but I am not discovering them as easily as I used to and I'm getting lazier. Be that as it may, there are always exceptions. Recently, I have been impressed by the Teddybears, the Silversun Pickups, the fun cover songs by Nouvelle Vague, along with all of the impressive b-sides from the singles (which I finally tracked down) off of the Editors first album from last year. Also, I can't forget my re-discovery of Containe's great 1996 LP Only Cowards Walk Like Cowards and the Cure reissues. Meanwhile, I look forward to tracking down new releases by the Rifles, Dina D'Alessandro, Emma Pollack, Springhouse, the Drakes Hotel, the Black Watch, along with a new one by Charlotte Hatherley – among many others. I have been doing this clichéd list of favorite albums for 20 years now and I'm not sure why. Somehow I get wrapped up in all of the end of year hype, and the needless categorization of an art form. My only criteria for ranking these are a subjective memory of what was most listened to. Because of this list, however, I am provided with a mini time capsule into what my life was like from year to year. I am also always curious what everyone else is listening to, so please feel free to share your favorites, comments or questions below or privately. I am always hungry to learn about what I'm missing. Thanks, and please, have a fun 2007.
1. The Lawrence Arms. Oh! Calcutta! (Fat Wreck Chords)
I may be getting older, but that does not mean that I'm ready to surrender myself exclusively to the draw of mellow adult-tailored acoustic/country folk subtleties as sponsored by NPR. I'm still really pissed off a lot of the time and I like to have music that relates to those moments. Unfortunately, I am not able to relate to the whiney, uninspired, derivative emo-fashion piss that passes for punk rock these days ($40 ironic t-shirts and $80 pre-torn jeans from Urban Outfitters do not make one edgy). Luckily, the Lawrence Arms returned in 2006 with their 5th full length album (they also have 2 split LP's and a singles compilation) along with a couple of trips through Portland. This trio shred it up in short bursts of addictive rock-n-roll crammed full of energy, passion, intelligence, and, most importantly, humor. They share the Midwestern sensibilities of the young and drunken working class Replacements, filtered through the ragged intensity of Unfun-era Jawbreaker. They have the drunken wisdom of experience that allows them to stumble upon poignancy effortlessly. None of this matters, however. All that matters to me are that the songs rock and cut through the bullshit. They inspire me to get my ancient, broken bones off my ass and go do something. I cannot get enough of 'em.
(www.thelawrencearms.net or www.fatwreck.com)
2. Sophia. Technology Won't Save Us (Flower Shop/City Slang)
This 4th LP of Sophia's (along with a unique live one) is their best. It is a slick, smooth, and huge sounding record! Beautiful orchestrations surge and swell atop layers of guitars, sharp thudding drum work and some sub-sonic bass lines. Robin Proper-Sheppard's songwriting has achieved a perfect balance between his straightforward brooding grooves of the two 90's LPs and his mildly Goth flavored epics since. He could've easily overdone these songs, but instead they are powerful, catchy and to the point – like a Year After Year-era Idaho as performed by the so-called shoegaze days of Moose (please ignore my band marriage comparisons). "Pace," "Lost (She Believed in Angels…)," and "P.1/P.2 (Cherry Trees and Debt Collectors)" would all be massive world wide hit singles if I were in charge. Of course, I'm not, but hopefully they will make it huge anyway.
(www.sophiamusic.net or www.cityslang.com)
3. Whysall Lane. Whysall Lane (Blackball)
Whysall Lane is the first project I've heard from guitarist/singer Richard Baluyut since Versus disappeared a few years back (I recommend starting with 1998's Two Cents Plus Tax for more on that great band). That's not all, however, the drums are handled by former Jawbreaker drummer (and hero) Adam Pfahler, and newcomer (to me anyway), bassist Mikel Delgado. The songs are constructed with simple sounding building blocks, allowing them to smolder like incense filling the air with intensity (sorry). This intensity evokes a noir atmosphere. The drama from each tune is palpable before the words are sung, but not immediately revealing. Because of this, the album took a couple of listens before flowering into something special, but once it did, this LP didn't leave the player very often.
(www.whysall-lane.com or www.blackballrecords.com)
4. Camera Obscura. Let's Get Out of This Country (Elefant/Merge)
On the third Camera Obscura album, this Scottish group changes things up a bit by recording in Sweden. What they gain is an early 60's Phil Spector-ish "Wall of Sound" added to their style. As usual, these tracks are decorated with strings, organs, and trumpets filling out their sound, but then everything is pushed into the red during recording (a la the Concretes' "Say Something New" from a couple years ago). This technique adds a boost of electricity to the songs. Tracyanne Campbell's voice crackles with her typical dry wit and bratty ruminations on the downfalls of love. The best tunes here are the upbeat ones, but the quiet ballad, "Country Mile," managed to break my heart. Overall, it's a fun record that managed to garner me a surprising conversation with the cute record store girl, who complimented my choice, when I purchased it. Nice!
(www.camera-obscura.net or www.elefant.com or www.mergerecords.com)
5. The Long Blondes. Someone to Drive You Home (Rough Trade)
This one is a late addition to the list. I bought this one in Seattle on 12/29 and listened to it over and over during the three hour drive home. In fact, I have carried it around with me ever since! The Long Blondes provide endlessly catchy and mildly new wave(y) songs fronted by the detached cool seductions of the rich voiced Kate Jackson. I get the sense from these songs of a been there done that maturity (in attitude, anyway) played out in an overly dramatic fashion of early twenty-something's involved in fractured relationships. I never get tired of this stuff. I suppose touchstones would date way back to early Blondie through to today's Metric. I just enjoy the ride and hope they can continue to produce such effectively memorable melodies for a long time.
(www.thelongblondes.co.uk or www.roughtraderecords.com)
6. Metric. Live it Out (Last Gang) - 2005
Here is the opposite story to the Long Blondes. I picked up this LP early last fall, and much like 2003's Old World Underground, Where Are You Now?, it took me forever to enjoy it. I cannot explain why. Once I get over my initial indifference, I fall head over heels. Emily Haines' biting words are front and center throughout, but I found Jimmy Shaw's guitars to be a revealing highlight here. This album is less overtly new wave derivative of their last and it is all the better for it. This band has a lot to say and do and I think the best is yet to come. This is still a fine place to be.
(www.ilovemetric.com or www.lastgangrecords.com)
7. Charlotte Hatherley. Grey Will Fade (Double Dragon) - 2004
Charlotte recorded this album, while her now former band, Ash, recorded their 2004 LP, since she played guitar for them, but rarely got a chance to provide her songs to the records. This is her chance to show off. It took me a long time to get this one from '04, but the wait was worth it. Her playing is extraordinary and these songs are heartfelt and fun and full of busy energy. Her words are endearing and personable, like a close friend telling you a story over drinks. This is a perfect album for sunshine activities (as long as it isn't burning hot). She has a new LP out soon, so quickly grab this one and then we can discover what she has in store for us next.
(www.charlottehatherley.com or www.doubledragonmusic.com)
8. The High Violets. To Where You Are (Reverb)
Every year I need a band that can provide me with a so-called “shoegaze” flavored soundscape with pretty female vocals to soothe my weakening mind. They cannot make music that's too fluffy, or too intent on creating extended vistas lacking any hooks or direction. Portland's own High Violets filled this year's opening very capably. Their songs are just right. The guitar work buzzes and churns forward with an easy momentum and even though I don't know many of the lyrics, Kaitlyn Ni Donovan's vocal melodies make these songs memorable and downright catchy. Thanks!
(www.thehighviolets.com or www.reverbrecords.net)
9. The Delgados. The Complete BBC Peel Sessions (Chemikal Underground)
The Delgados released their fifth and final album in 2004. They will be sadly missed, not only because of the strength of their songs, but because in the live setting they were unspeakably remarkable. This 2 CD collection of radio sessions is cheap and, for some reason, easier to find than all of their actual albums. This collection acts as a good retrospective of their history for the unfamiliar, while including a variety of covers and alternate takes adding value to the collector. Before this band came along, I never thought I would get excited and overwhelmed by indie rock backed by complex string arrangements and flute playing, but here you go. They will be missed.
(www.chemikal.co.uk)
10. Mojave 3. Puzzles Like You (4AD)
Wow. Mojave 3 hasn't dropped their folk-based moodiness completely, but this new LP rocks! The songs are short, upbeat rockers. In fact, the few slower numbers sound out of place on this collection. Kudos to them for trying something different and pulling it off so well. As always, my only complaint is that there aren't enough of Rachel Goswell's beautiful vocals here (get well!).
(www.mojave3online.com or www.4ad.com)
11. Lambchop. Damaged (Merge)
I heard that this is the last Lambchop album. If so, they will be missed. Their quiet and unusual brand of country music is always an interesting alternative my normal tastes. Kurt Wagner's brilliance reveals itself in subtle washes that paint a realistic portrait of Americana that defies so many perceptions and generalizations. Besides, if they throw in the towel, that could put the 7,000 band members out of work.
(www.lambchop.net or www.mergerecords.com)
12. Decoration. Flippant (13 B Sides)
These guys remind me of a less frenetic Wedding Present during the days of the C-86 scene in the UK, or even the underrated power of Adorable. They have a knack for creating scenarios loaded with regret and remorse for relationship opportunities now passed (a personal past-time). This is nothing new, but these songs are like mini stories, whose impact are buoyed by tumultuous arrangements. This album collects b sides from their early singles and it's very strong. Still, I recommend their debut from last year Don't Disappoint Me Now, ahead of this one.
(www.decorationmusic.co.uk or www.13bsides.co.uk)
Top Albums of 2007
Here we go again. New Year's Day. Another year older. Another Best Of list. These are my favorite albums of 2007 as determined by some imaginary perception of most listened to. None of it makes sense and it could be different any other day. Why, you may ask, is my opinion important? It isn't. That is why I won't prattle on and on about why I like these particular albums.
1. Editors "An End Has A Start"
2. Dina D'Alessandro "Is It Safe?" 2005
3. The Jealous Girlfriends "The Jealous Girlfriends"
4. Great Northern "Trading Twilight For Daylight"
5. Drakes Hotel "Tell Me Everything"
6. Fields "Everything Last Winter"
7. Emma Pollock "Watch The Fireworks"
8. Maximo Park "Our Earthly Pleasures"
9. The Long Blondes "Someone To Drive You Home" 2006
10. The Rifles "No Love Lost" 2006
11. Stars "In Our Bedroom After The War"
12. Young Galaxy "Young Galaxy"
13. The Pipettes "We Are The Pipettes" 2006
14. Dulcesky "Lands" 2006
15. Foundry Field Recordings "Prompts/Miscues" 2006
16. The Lodger "Grown-Ups"
17. Star "Devastator"
18. Trembling Blue Stars "The Last Holy Writer"
19. Various Artists "Love Goes On: A Tribute To Grant McLennan"
20. At Swim Two Birds "Returning To The Scene Of The Crime"
That takes care of the motivation part, but not the pain of actually squeezing coherent words out of me about this music. Surprisingly, while at a crossroads the other day about whether or not to bother with the list this year, I ran across some old file that had two years worth of lists on it. I think these were each posted originally on Myspace. What really struck me is that it's clear that my dilemma is one that I battle each year. 2007's list is purely a list with zero descriptives about why I like those records, while 2006 is filled with them. Strangely, it was this fact, along with some simple loose paragraphs describing my favorites of 2006 that kind of re-energized me. I thought I'd share them here, as I go back to work on what was great about 2012. All of these albums are still worth checking out, by the way!
Top albums of 2006
Overall, 2006 has been a crappy year for me. Sure some of my best friends went out and had some kids this year, but I also lost someone very dear to me. In addition, I quit my job and gave up any idea that I might one day feel healthy again. Even the Portland Timbers played like pansies. Normally, during times such as these, music becomes a powerful resource of inspiration and reflection for me, but this year has generally been a terrible year for music. I don't know if it's because I'm getting older and less impressionable, or if I'm simply missing the boat on things, but I haven't bought this few albums in a year since I turned 14 (ever since I was old enough to whore myself out to some job in order to earn money to buy music). Don't get me wrong, I am certain that there are thousands of really cool things I would enjoy if I had exposure to them, but I am not discovering them as easily as I used to and I'm getting lazier. Be that as it may, there are always exceptions. Recently, I have been impressed by the Teddybears, the Silversun Pickups, the fun cover songs by Nouvelle Vague, along with all of the impressive b-sides from the singles (which I finally tracked down) off of the Editors first album from last year. Also, I can't forget my re-discovery of Containe's great 1996 LP Only Cowards Walk Like Cowards and the Cure reissues. Meanwhile, I look forward to tracking down new releases by the Rifles, Dina D'Alessandro, Emma Pollack, Springhouse, the Drakes Hotel, the Black Watch, along with a new one by Charlotte Hatherley – among many others. I have been doing this clichéd list of favorite albums for 20 years now and I'm not sure why. Somehow I get wrapped up in all of the end of year hype, and the needless categorization of an art form. My only criteria for ranking these are a subjective memory of what was most listened to. Because of this list, however, I am provided with a mini time capsule into what my life was like from year to year. I am also always curious what everyone else is listening to, so please feel free to share your favorites, comments or questions below or privately. I am always hungry to learn about what I'm missing. Thanks, and please, have a fun 2007.
1. The Lawrence Arms. Oh! Calcutta! (Fat Wreck Chords)
I may be getting older, but that does not mean that I'm ready to surrender myself exclusively to the draw of mellow adult-tailored acoustic/country folk subtleties as sponsored by NPR. I'm still really pissed off a lot of the time and I like to have music that relates to those moments. Unfortunately, I am not able to relate to the whiney, uninspired, derivative emo-fashion piss that passes for punk rock these days ($40 ironic t-shirts and $80 pre-torn jeans from Urban Outfitters do not make one edgy). Luckily, the Lawrence Arms returned in 2006 with their 5th full length album (they also have 2 split LP's and a singles compilation) along with a couple of trips through Portland. This trio shred it up in short bursts of addictive rock-n-roll crammed full of energy, passion, intelligence, and, most importantly, humor. They share the Midwestern sensibilities of the young and drunken working class Replacements, filtered through the ragged intensity of Unfun-era Jawbreaker. They have the drunken wisdom of experience that allows them to stumble upon poignancy effortlessly. None of this matters, however. All that matters to me are that the songs rock and cut through the bullshit. They inspire me to get my ancient, broken bones off my ass and go do something. I cannot get enough of 'em.
(www.thelawrencearms.net or www.fatwreck.com)
2. Sophia. Technology Won't Save Us (Flower Shop/City Slang)
This 4th LP of Sophia's (along with a unique live one) is their best. It is a slick, smooth, and huge sounding record! Beautiful orchestrations surge and swell atop layers of guitars, sharp thudding drum work and some sub-sonic bass lines. Robin Proper-Sheppard's songwriting has achieved a perfect balance between his straightforward brooding grooves of the two 90's LPs and his mildly Goth flavored epics since. He could've easily overdone these songs, but instead they are powerful, catchy and to the point – like a Year After Year-era Idaho as performed by the so-called shoegaze days of Moose (please ignore my band marriage comparisons). "Pace," "Lost (She Believed in Angels…)," and "P.1/P.2 (Cherry Trees and Debt Collectors)" would all be massive world wide hit singles if I were in charge. Of course, I'm not, but hopefully they will make it huge anyway.
(www.sophiamusic.net or www.cityslang.com)
3. Whysall Lane. Whysall Lane (Blackball)
Whysall Lane is the first project I've heard from guitarist/singer Richard Baluyut since Versus disappeared a few years back (I recommend starting with 1998's Two Cents Plus Tax for more on that great band). That's not all, however, the drums are handled by former Jawbreaker drummer (and hero) Adam Pfahler, and newcomer (to me anyway), bassist Mikel Delgado. The songs are constructed with simple sounding building blocks, allowing them to smolder like incense filling the air with intensity (sorry). This intensity evokes a noir atmosphere. The drama from each tune is palpable before the words are sung, but not immediately revealing. Because of this, the album took a couple of listens before flowering into something special, but once it did, this LP didn't leave the player very often.
(www.whysall-lane.com or www.blackballrecords.com)
4. Camera Obscura. Let's Get Out of This Country (Elefant/Merge)
On the third Camera Obscura album, this Scottish group changes things up a bit by recording in Sweden. What they gain is an early 60's Phil Spector-ish "Wall of Sound" added to their style. As usual, these tracks are decorated with strings, organs, and trumpets filling out their sound, but then everything is pushed into the red during recording (a la the Concretes' "Say Something New" from a couple years ago). This technique adds a boost of electricity to the songs. Tracyanne Campbell's voice crackles with her typical dry wit and bratty ruminations on the downfalls of love. The best tunes here are the upbeat ones, but the quiet ballad, "Country Mile," managed to break my heart. Overall, it's a fun record that managed to garner me a surprising conversation with the cute record store girl, who complimented my choice, when I purchased it. Nice!
(www.camera-obscura.net or www.elefant.com or www.mergerecords.com)
5. The Long Blondes. Someone to Drive You Home (Rough Trade)
This one is a late addition to the list. I bought this one in Seattle on 12/29 and listened to it over and over during the three hour drive home. In fact, I have carried it around with me ever since! The Long Blondes provide endlessly catchy and mildly new wave(y) songs fronted by the detached cool seductions of the rich voiced Kate Jackson. I get the sense from these songs of a been there done that maturity (in attitude, anyway) played out in an overly dramatic fashion of early twenty-something's involved in fractured relationships. I never get tired of this stuff. I suppose touchstones would date way back to early Blondie through to today's Metric. I just enjoy the ride and hope they can continue to produce such effectively memorable melodies for a long time.
(www.thelongblondes.co.uk or www.roughtraderecords.com)
6. Metric. Live it Out (Last Gang) - 2005
Here is the opposite story to the Long Blondes. I picked up this LP early last fall, and much like 2003's Old World Underground, Where Are You Now?, it took me forever to enjoy it. I cannot explain why. Once I get over my initial indifference, I fall head over heels. Emily Haines' biting words are front and center throughout, but I found Jimmy Shaw's guitars to be a revealing highlight here. This album is less overtly new wave derivative of their last and it is all the better for it. This band has a lot to say and do and I think the best is yet to come. This is still a fine place to be.
(www.ilovemetric.com or www.lastgangrecords.com)
7. Charlotte Hatherley. Grey Will Fade (Double Dragon) - 2004
Charlotte recorded this album, while her now former band, Ash, recorded their 2004 LP, since she played guitar for them, but rarely got a chance to provide her songs to the records. This is her chance to show off. It took me a long time to get this one from '04, but the wait was worth it. Her playing is extraordinary and these songs are heartfelt and fun and full of busy energy. Her words are endearing and personable, like a close friend telling you a story over drinks. This is a perfect album for sunshine activities (as long as it isn't burning hot). She has a new LP out soon, so quickly grab this one and then we can discover what she has in store for us next.
(www.charlottehatherley.com or www.doubledragonmusic.com)
8. The High Violets. To Where You Are (Reverb)
Every year I need a band that can provide me with a so-called “shoegaze” flavored soundscape with pretty female vocals to soothe my weakening mind. They cannot make music that's too fluffy, or too intent on creating extended vistas lacking any hooks or direction. Portland's own High Violets filled this year's opening very capably. Their songs are just right. The guitar work buzzes and churns forward with an easy momentum and even though I don't know many of the lyrics, Kaitlyn Ni Donovan's vocal melodies make these songs memorable and downright catchy. Thanks!
(www.thehighviolets.com or www.reverbrecords.net)
9. The Delgados. The Complete BBC Peel Sessions (Chemikal Underground)
The Delgados released their fifth and final album in 2004. They will be sadly missed, not only because of the strength of their songs, but because in the live setting they were unspeakably remarkable. This 2 CD collection of radio sessions is cheap and, for some reason, easier to find than all of their actual albums. This collection acts as a good retrospective of their history for the unfamiliar, while including a variety of covers and alternate takes adding value to the collector. Before this band came along, I never thought I would get excited and overwhelmed by indie rock backed by complex string arrangements and flute playing, but here you go. They will be missed.
(www.chemikal.co.uk)
10. Mojave 3. Puzzles Like You (4AD)
Wow. Mojave 3 hasn't dropped their folk-based moodiness completely, but this new LP rocks! The songs are short, upbeat rockers. In fact, the few slower numbers sound out of place on this collection. Kudos to them for trying something different and pulling it off so well. As always, my only complaint is that there aren't enough of Rachel Goswell's beautiful vocals here (get well!).
(www.mojave3online.com or www.4ad.com)
11. Lambchop. Damaged (Merge)
I heard that this is the last Lambchop album. If so, they will be missed. Their quiet and unusual brand of country music is always an interesting alternative my normal tastes. Kurt Wagner's brilliance reveals itself in subtle washes that paint a realistic portrait of Americana that defies so many perceptions and generalizations. Besides, if they throw in the towel, that could put the 7,000 band members out of work.
(www.lambchop.net or www.mergerecords.com)
12. Decoration. Flippant (13 B Sides)
These guys remind me of a less frenetic Wedding Present during the days of the C-86 scene in the UK, or even the underrated power of Adorable. They have a knack for creating scenarios loaded with regret and remorse for relationship opportunities now passed (a personal past-time). This is nothing new, but these songs are like mini stories, whose impact are buoyed by tumultuous arrangements. This album collects b sides from their early singles and it's very strong. Still, I recommend their debut from last year Don't Disappoint Me Now, ahead of this one.
(www.decorationmusic.co.uk or www.13bsides.co.uk)
Top Albums of 2007
Here we go again. New Year's Day. Another year older. Another Best Of list. These are my favorite albums of 2007 as determined by some imaginary perception of most listened to. None of it makes sense and it could be different any other day. Why, you may ask, is my opinion important? It isn't. That is why I won't prattle on and on about why I like these particular albums.
1. Editors "An End Has A Start"
2. Dina D'Alessandro "Is It Safe?" 2005
3. The Jealous Girlfriends "The Jealous Girlfriends"
4. Great Northern "Trading Twilight For Daylight"
5. Drakes Hotel "Tell Me Everything"
6. Fields "Everything Last Winter"
7. Emma Pollock "Watch The Fireworks"
8. Maximo Park "Our Earthly Pleasures"
9. The Long Blondes "Someone To Drive You Home" 2006
10. The Rifles "No Love Lost" 2006
11. Stars "In Our Bedroom After The War"
12. Young Galaxy "Young Galaxy"
13. The Pipettes "We Are The Pipettes" 2006
14. Dulcesky "Lands" 2006
15. Foundry Field Recordings "Prompts/Miscues" 2006
16. The Lodger "Grown-Ups"
17. Star "Devastator"
18. Trembling Blue Stars "The Last Holy Writer"
19. Various Artists "Love Goes On: A Tribute To Grant McLennan"
20. At Swim Two Birds "Returning To The Scene Of The Crime"
Labels:
best of,
blogging,
editors,
frustration,
lawrence arms,
motivation,
music,
writing
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