Rock the Bunny MOTD

Hello everyone,

Welcome to a brand new edition of the Music of the Day newsletter. Ah spring, a time of rebirth and renewal. But it’s also tax time, which can totally ruin the mood of an otherwise wonderful time of year. In honor of tax day and the pain and frustration that can usually cause, the theme for this newsletter is Hard Rock. When I’m pissed off and angry, nothing makes me feel better than the rumbling bass, heavy guitar riffs, and powerful vocals of some good-old hard rock!

I have a few standards for picking music, especially for hard rock and metal. First of all, there must be a melody. You have to be able to hum or whistle the tune. I can’t stand songs that are nothing but chugga chugga on guitars and some dude eating the microphone singing something that sounds like “morf dorf orf Whaaaarf!” Musically speaking, beauty is in the ear of the beholder, and everyone has their own tastes. While some of the bands in this edition are usually classified as heavy metal, most of the songs I picked are more of a power ballad style, with respect to those of you with a softer audio palate. If you need a fix of the harder stuff, just look deeper into the catalog of any of these artists.

The links got a little out of hand with my last newsletter, so this time I’m trying something a little different. I created a playlist on Youtube.com that you should be able to just click once and play through. Hopefully you won’t need to create a Youtube account to view it. It seems to work pretty well, except for a couple cases when there is a long empty pause or a commercial at the end of the video. There are controls for the playlist so you can skip to the next video or jump around the list to different songs if you like.

Of course with this format you will miss (or maybe you won’t) my witty commentary on each of the bands and songs. I’ll do my best to fill in some quick details before the link. Also, since most of these videos are submitted by users, the sound quality isn’t always up to my exacting audiophile standards. You may have to ride the volume knob from one song to the next, but hey, it’s free, and it works so I ain’t knocking it. If you find something you like and want to hear a better version of it, check out lala.com or last.fm.

When Chevelle approached their label to make a video for “I Get It,” the label turned them down, so the band got their friends together and made a video with their own money. It’s a great video and probably better than they would have gotten with studio influence anyway. Paramore’s “Decode” is featured on the Twilight movie soundtrack. I think it’s cool because they filmed the video (and the movie) in the rainforests of Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula, not too far from where I live. Saving Abel is a great band, and they’re also Peavey endorsers (Woot!).

Finally, one of my favorite recent discoveries Is a band called Hurt. This is an awesome new rock band that I have been absolutely loving. They sound a little like the lead singer of Live, mixed with the dark tone of Stained, and just a touch of Tool thrown in for good measure. By the way, I have to apologize for the static picture videos. Not all the songs I wanted to include have an actual video. So, what are ya gonna do?

Alright, on to the main course. Throw your horns up, bang your head, and get ready to RAWK!

Youtube Video Playlist: http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=FC18A636BDBAB976

-Marc

MOTD redux

Greetings one and all,
I've been remiss in keeping up regular correspondence, but if you know me you'll realize that's pretty much been my M.O. from day one.

Part of the reason for the huge delay was a general lack of inspiration. I didn't know what I wanted to do for my next piece. Well the wheels continued to turn, rusty though they may be, and as I was sitting in a drive-thru the other day I realized what I wanted to do. There was a song on the radio by one Lady Gaga, whom some of you may be familiar with. For my own part, I was struck by some undeniable similarities between Lady Gaga and one of my favorite artists from yester-year, Blondie.

So I decided I'd do a piece on 'bridging the gap.' Now I'm not saying these new artists sound exactly like, look exactly like, act exactly like the predecessors I'm comparing them to. I'm only saying there are some uncanny similarities and ideally I'm opening the eyes (ears?) of some of my listeners. Sure it's new, sure it's not the same stuff you grew up listening to, but that doesn't mean it's not worth a listen. Remember all that 'classic' rock you and I grew up listening to was just a bunch of noise to our parents, grandparents, etc. Put it in perspective.

Submission #1:
Predecessor: Queen - Killer Queen
Newbies: The Darkness - I Believe in a Thing Called Love
If you don't see and hear some striking similarities here, well...you can't save them all, Hasselhoff. Big props to the Darkness for having the balls (or lack thereof) to not only go to the falsetto, but stay there for a live performance. I do think they should give Steven Tyler back his wardrobe, though.

Submission #2:
Predecessor: Blondie - Hangin on the Telephone
Newbies: Lady Gaga - Just Dance
The similarities aren't as obvious here but if you're familiar with Debbie Harry and Blondie from their hayday it gets a little easier. Debbie was a beautiful, glamorous young woman with a great voice. Her music was as much a part of the fashion of her day as the clothes she wore. Lady Gaga is doing much the same thing, creating an image that isn't just music, but fashion and style as well.

These are just a couple of examples that came pretty much right off the top of my head. I'm sure I could find more if I thought long and hard about it, but that sounds too much like work. So on a completely different note, here's a song I first stumbled across while playing Guitar Hero III. The riff that pretty much pervades the song is simple and addictive, and although the sound is sorta fuzzy on the video the cinematography is very cool. I love the use of the drumheads and the 'extending' shot. Decent lyrics too, if you can make them out. Enjoy.

The Fall of Troy - F.C.P.R.E.M.I.X.

Seeya next time,

Hooch

P.S. I am considering changing the format a bit by starting a blog. I'd set it up and send an email out the first time, and then once you follow the blog you'll get updates whenever I make them. So if you have any ideas or suggestions lemme have it.

P.P.S. Welcome to the list, Jack!

MarcOTD

Hey guys,

It seems that Dyess puts out his “MP3 of the Day” newsletter only once a quarter, so I thought it was high time to step in and share a little music while he polishes up his masterpiece. I don’t blame him, Starkville Mississippi is hardly what you’d call a Mecca of new music. I’ve got two words for you Sean, internet radio! Just kidding man, I have to give you credit for coming up with the idea. I’ve added a few new names to the list, so if this is your first MP3 of the Day, welcome to the party!

For today’s musical installment, the theme is Indie Rock. This is a subgenre of Alternative music, born out of early 80’s British Punk. The term “Indie” used to describe bands that had not signed with a major label, but as major conglomerates have gobbled up many independent labels, this description is no longer accurate. Today’s Indie Rock describes music that hovers on the fringes of popular music awareness, usually far from the top 40. Its practitioners often experiment with new styles and sounds, but the genre can usually be characterized by fast tempos and thin, almost brittle sounding guitars. For more info on the genre, check out the Wikipedia description: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indie_rock

We begin our sonic safari with one of the pioneers of Indie Rock, and Alternative Music in general, the Pixies. Although originally from the U.S., they never took off here. Instead they found fame in the U.K. This song was used as the closing track for one of the best guy-movies of all time – Fight Club. This video was cleverly put together with choice scenes from the flick.

The Pixies – Where is My Mind

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zP1IjgSO_E&feature=related

Perhaps on the opposite end of the spectrum is Beck, who’s first single, Looser, was a monster hit, reaching #10 on Billboard’s top 100 chart back in 1993. This offering from his latest album, Modern Guilt, suits the Indie theme.

Beck – Gamma Ray

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIBw-lbxtT4

This band is one of my favorites in the genre, and while I wanted to give you just one video for each artist, I found an awesome video made by some Japanese guys apparently for the Wired Magazine Next Fest. I thought it was cool, so that’s why they get double billing.

Spoon – I Turn My Camera On

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ro95Ns58qSE

Spoon - Don’t you Evah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPdP1jBfxzo&feature=related

The next song can honestly get a little annoying, but then after you hear it a few times it gets stuck in your head like, Caa-stanza! (for you young-uns that’s a Seinfeld reference) I think this is like a modern “Hey Mickey.” Enjoy!

The Ting Tings – That’s Not My Name

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6UX0p7uAW2s

Ok, this song is cool and very different from the last one, but man, what the heck is going on with this video?!! It’s like some bad 80’s MTV video director’s revenge for never filming a zombie movie!

Santogold – L.E.S. Artists

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4CtzFEAGHcw

I know what some of you are thinking. Just when you thought Indie doesn’t rock, check out the next few songs. First up is Silversun Pickups. In an earlier email I sent out another of their songs, “Lazy Eye.” If you haven’t heard it, it’s worth a listen. This song is probably my second favorite on the album.

Silversun Pickups – Well Thought Out Twinkles

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmE57YE3pSc

Queens has been around for years and has an impressive back catalog. Occasionally major artists from other bands will join in on tour and in the studio, including Dave Grohl, of Nirvana/Foo Fighter’s fame, Dean Ween, from Ween, and even Billy Gibbons, from ZZ Top. For Indie, they rock hard!

Queens of the Stone Age – In My Head

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sTQMy1ErZY&NR=1

The Raconteurs has been called a super band because it is made up of members of other successful bands, most notably Jack White of The White Stripes. I guess he finally decided to ditch the wife and start a real band. Here’s my favorite tune from their catalog.

The Raconteurs – Level

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqFb6VXW86Y

This band really embodies the Indie spirit with a tongue-in-cheek style. The Eagles of Death Metal are definitely not Death Metal, as you’ll soon find out.

Eagles of Death Metal – Wanna Be in LA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xj3kTdx1QBw

Next up is a song by Scottish band, Franz Ferdinand. Watch this video and tell me these guys don’t do A LOT of drugs. Remember, they come from the same country that brought you the movie “Trainspotting.” By the way, their song “Do You Want To” is one of my favorite’s for Karaoke bars. It always gets a good crowd reaction.

Franz Ferdinand – Ulysses

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqJRnopvVIU&annotation_id=annotation_465341&feature=iv

The final song is from a band I just recently discovered, and it seemed fitting to end with. This video was put together by a fan and it’s brilliant.

Coconut Records – West Coast

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iR654dhhZNs&feature=related

I hope you have enjoyed this sampling of Indie Rock. I am sorry if it went a little long, but there’s just too much great music in this genre to cull down. I’m sure you have heard of a few of these bands, but if not and you enjoyed the music, I invite you to check out more songs from these artists. If you didn’t enjoy this music then I’m sorry, you’re just wrong. Until next time,

Rock on!

-Marc

Marc's first full-fledged MOTD(M?)

MP3 of the Month

What’s crackin’ pimps and hos? I just shanked Sean in the back and stuffed him in my trunk so I could hijack his MP3 newsletter. Let’s hope I get this done quick so I can cut him loose before he bleeds out. This is Mix-Master Marcus, and I’ll be your guest E.J. Get ready ‘cause this week we’re going Gangsta! That’s right, this week the theme is Rap.

Now usually I feel like rap has a silent “c”, but every now and then some really outstanding music comes along in every genre. The following are a few picks from slightly out of the rap mainstream. I know some of you will be like “but what about these guys and what about them?” Well I’m running this show and if you give me any lip you’ll get the shank, in yo throat!

One word of caution, rap has been a counter culture medium since the beginning, so some of these lyrics may be offensive and Not Safe For Work. I will do my best to warn you, but in order to appreciate the art form in it’s full glory, it might be wise to view this at home, or at least wait until the coast is clear. With that in mind, let’s get this hoopty hoppin’!

This song you may have heard under the trailer for Seth Rogen’s new movie Pineapple Express (great movie BTW). It’s a little rough at first but it really gets in your head.

M.I.A. – Paper Planes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqlY0VOFtyA

So just what the hell is she saying anyway? I never can understand those crazy Brits! Here are the lyrics you can check yourself if you’re so inclined.

http://www.metrolyrics.com/paper-planes-lyrics-mia.html

At this point I want to pay tribute to a rare breed of rappers. They often don’t get the same respect as their mainstream counterparts. I’m talking about white people rap. In this great land of equal opportunity they have come a long way, but it has been a hard struggle.

First, let’s salute a true white-rap pioneer. This song goes back before Eminem, before the Beastie Boys, even before Vanilla Ice. This song is, I believe, the first woman rap ever, she just also happens to be white. Released in 1981, here is:

Blondie – Rapture

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHPikUPlRD8

Now let’s skip ahead to modern times. You may have heard this song on a commercial for the LG Chocolate phone a couple years ago. Missy Elliot did a remix around the same time, but I prefer the original white-bread version. This is one that might get you in trouble at work, so I included a clean version as well as the original.

Lady Sovereign - Love Me or Hate Me

NSFW: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3ILUic7aN0

Clean: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1sHAX2F4PE

Here is a white boy rapper from California. This is a great song but it’s probably not safe for work. There is a clean version, but you just don’t get the full impact of the song if you miss out on a few choice words. Unfortunately there is no video for the uncensored version, but this home-made submission is better that the MTV version below.

Mickey Avalon – Jane Fonda

NSFW: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eux1DOWKe1M

Clean: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tjq3FdNDHM

I don’t know what it is, but there’s just something about a Hasidic Jew rapper that is intriguing. Surprisingly he’s not half bad. There is a studio version of this song, but I like the live version better.

Matisyahu – King Without a Crown

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwgud48pdnw&NR=1

Finally, I think this is the pinnacle of modern white-boy rap. These guys are from Denver, CO and this is their break out song released last year. I really love this song, I just hope the radio stations don’t play it into the ground!

Flobots – Handlebars

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AuK2A1ZqoWs

OK, enough with the white rapper theme. After that last video, let’s check out a couple more animated rap videos.

This is an old one I’m sure you’ve seen before, but classics deserve to be seen again! If you dare, click the link after the video to Star Wars Gangsta Rap 2. It’s pretty brutal.

Star Wars Gangsta Rap

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HC_Uws9KUGE

This next video has a positive and uplifting message with simple yet important life lessons set to the music and language of our modern urban youth. Definitely NSFW!!

Read a Book

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHGt3J2VO6k

Well this has been fun but I’m afraid this has gone on too long. But before I go let me give you one last song from one of my favorite white rappers from Philly. There is no video for this one, not sure why. This song might not be for everybody and it’s probably NSFW either.

G. Love & Special Sauce – W.G.T.W.

http://www.last.fm/music/G.%2BLove%2B%2526%2BSpecial%2BSauce/_/Who's+Got+The+Weed

Alright alright, I hope you enjoyed it, but it’s definitely time to let Sean out of the trunk. Until next time, Get Crunk!

-Mix Master Marcus M.C.

Hey guys.

Sean has brought it to my attention that a couple of links from the MP3 of the Day letter I sent out on Friday were messed up. Whups, my bad! Wow, how embarrassing! I could swear I checked them all before I hit send. The really unfortunate thing is the two messed up links were on probably the best songs of the letter. Que sera, sera…

I’m sure some of you probably searched You Tube for the right videos since I had the artist name and title above the links, but for those of you who didn’t have time or inclination, here they are again.

Matisyahu – King Without a Crown, Live at Stubbs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iao2vl_sG70

Flobots – Handlebars

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AuK2A1ZqoWs

Enjoy!

-Marc

80'sx90's covers MOTD

What's up everybody? So it's been a bit since my last email...I couldn't decide what I wanted to send out for the next email until this morning. I was cleaning up around the house and came across an old CD that my friend Ingy made for me, which inspired this week's topic, good covers.

So, here they are...

First off, one of my all-time favorite covers...I say this every time I talk about this song and probably will all my life...I think this cover is better than the original. If you think that's heresy then get your motd's somewhere else.

Faith No More - War Pigs (Live at Brixton Academy)
Some items worth noting about these guys...the drummer, Mike Bordin, has been the tour drummer for Ozzy Ozborne for the last I-don't-know-how-many years. The lead guitarist, SIR Jim Martin, (musn't forget the 'sir') is one of the personal heroes of Bill S. Preston, Esquire and Ted Theodore Logan. And the lead singer, Mike Patton, has an amazing voice and vocal range that he insists upon squandering.


Now some of you might feel like my saying the FNM's cover of a Sabbath song is a slight against Ozzy, so by way of an apology, let me throw a little Ozzy at you...

Coal Chamber ft. Ozzy Ozborne - Shock the Monkey
This song was originally performed by Peter Gabriel.


Next up, a Gerry Rafferty cover. It's ok if you don't recognize the name, I bet you'll know the song. Also I really like the retrospective feel to the video...

Foo Fighters - Baker Street


When I went looking for the next item I found more than I bargained for...I'd heard Train's version of the song, but I got two bands for the price of one! What a baaaa-gain!

Fuel and Train - Ramble On


Aaaaaand finally, a little 80's throwback for you...

Fear Factory ft. Gary Numan - Cars



So that's it for this week as far as the music, but if you stick around (read: keep scrolling down) you'll see some pics from my trip to Aussie-land.
Actually gmail is kind of a bitch about imbedding pictures, so they'll be attachments, but hey, you wanna see 'em, there you go. I named them all as appropriately as I could...

Seeya next time!

Emrich's MOTD

How about some of the best Irish rock you've ever heard, since you're going country to country.
Thin Lizzy is a good start, and this song is a great one to start with:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TehFZ38kt6o&feature=related
then maybe this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhtgxS6z9yo&feature=related
a crowd favorite:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDM469h7880&feature=related
One of my favorites:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUubo0Xz29I&feature=related
and a couple lesser known to me, but wicked nevertheless:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9F_EJ1o_agk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6t6zhpDpPs

Obviously other irish music is easy enough to pick out from U2, Cranberries, Enya, Van Morrison, the Pogues, the Chieftans, the Corrs, or old cueball herself, Sinead O'connor.
While I can say some of those are worthwhile additions, Thin Lizzy is by far my favorite of the bunch, U2 and Van Morrison would be tied for 2nd

Marc's first MOTD hijack

Dude, you totally forgot the latest hotness from Australia, Wolfmother! Well, maybe not the latest, but they rock harder than AC/DC. In fact they sound like a modernized version of Black Sabbath. Check it out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgSqPHIY60E

And Silverchair? They used to rock hard, but now they've gone limp. Really, it's sad. Is that dude gay? (Not that there's anything wrong with that..)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCjtcrAO5ws

And while I've completely hijacked your newsletter, let me make one more submission. This has been one of my favorite songs for more than a year, but it's still damn good. Only this time these guys aren't from Australia, but from a small suburb in L.A.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twL3ms4bjZk

Thanks for your indulgence. Sorry Sean, won't happen again. ;-D

-Rock Master MPV

MOTD 2.whatever

...I told you I wouldn't keep track of that mess forever.

Anyway, time for one last installment of MOTD before I head out for my buddy Stephen's wedding. Because it's so close and I can hardly think about anything else anyway, we're having a tribute to the land down under...Australia. You might be surprised to learn who's on this list, though...

We'll start with a gimme. Something every person my age thinks about when the words 'Australian' and 'music' are in the same sentence...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lcu7OCIqlqE

Was I wrong...maybe you thought of these guys?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heQi0AZBH-0&feature=related

Then again these days people are probably thinking...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYbZNamJQ5g

Which I guess is better than...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10BbpGKLXqk

..even if she is pretty hot. You know who else was hot?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7m1UWSD-FaA

Totally. She's sort of...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8YW5DVR0KE&feature=related

don't you think? I could do some

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5RDn5Y0D_0

with her, if you know what I mean. She'd be totally into it, too, because I've got

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YUuyzQDmjY

...seriously. I do. Really.


Signed,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5KWI71s3DY&feature=related

MOTD 2.3 (am I really still doing this?)

...apparently I am. So, I hope this email finds you all well and in good spirits. I've been working harder than a three-legged cat tryin to bury a turd on a marble floor at work this week, so this'll be short, sweet and to the point.

The band: The Bravery
The blurb: We're back on this side of 'the Pond' this week to talk about the Bravery, an American made band from New York City (New York City!?).

Shamelessly stolen from wikipedia (hence the rampant linkage):
Frontman-songwriter Sam Endicott and keyboardist John Conway were classmates at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, NY in the late '90s. As freshmen, their musical partnership began inauspiciously, playing local bars in mock-ska band Skabba the Hut, which also included CSI: Miami star Jonathan Togo. The two went on to play together in numerous bands and recording projects, including new wave outfit Conquistador. Upon moving to NYC in early '00s, Endicott switched from bass guitar to vocals and began writing the music that would later become "The Bravery".

Guitarist Michael Zakarin joined after answering an advert in a local paper, and brought with him bassist Mike Hindert, a classmate of his from Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Drummer Anthony Burulcich was living in Boston where he had studied percussion at Berklee College of Music. After the death of his sister, Burulcich moved back to his childhood home in Long Island New York to be with his family. On the day Burulcich was moving, while driving with his belongings in a Uhaul truck, Endicott called him. Endicott and Burulcich were introduced by mutual friends in NY band Bishop Allen.

The music:

Song: An Honest Mistake
The rampant use of synthesizer in this song really takes me back to the 80's, but in a good way. This was the big hit off the band's first, self-titled, album.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=T5fe6nZx6cw (official video)

Lyrics:
People
They don't mean a thing to you
They move right through you
Just like your breath
But sometimes
I still think of you
And I just wanted to
Just wanted you to know
My old friend...
I swear I never meant for this
I never meant...

Don't look at me that way
It was an honest mistake
Don't look at me that way
It was an honest mistake
An honest mistake

Sometimes
I forget I'm still awake
I fuck up and say these things out loud

My old friend...
I sweat I never meant for this
I never meant...

Don't look at me that way
It was an honest mistake
Don't look at me that way
It was an honest mistake
An honest mistake

Don't look at me that way
It was an honest mistake
Don't look at me that way
It was an honest mistake
An honest mistake

Song: Fearless
While not as immediately appealing as the previous song (at least to me) I still enjoy the song, and the video is an added bonus. Sure it's just a gimmick, but I thought it was a cool, which I guess is the point.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=EoHfgIHvQE8&feature=related (official video)

Lyrics:
Too many fingers, too many thumbs
Something wicked this way comes
The best time I've ever had
Waiting around for something bad
Fearless, fearless, ohh
And I know that's why you love me
Fearless, fearless, come on
And I know that's why you love me, chica
And I know that's why you love me, chica
And I know that's why you love me, chica

Oh, so fearless
Oh, so fearless
Oh

This is what it's all about
Take me in and eat me out
Pins and needles in my arms
Lucky eyes and lucky charms

Fearless, fearless, ohh
And I know that's why you love me
Fearless, fearless, come on
And I know that's why you love me, chica
And I know that's why you love me, chica
And I know that's why you love me, chica

Oh, so fearless
Oh, so fearless
Oh, so fearless
Oh, so fearless
Oh, yeah


Song: Time Won't Let Me Go
The rest of the songs here will be from their sophomore album, The Sun and the Moon. This particular song is one of my favorites from the album. I really enjoy the music, but the lyrics are key here. Instead of the typical philosophy in most songs where they talk about how if they could go back they wouldn't change a thing, here the guy is saying he'd do it all different if he had another chance.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=H5ZxQ8tnAG8&feature=related

Lyrics:
Whenever I look back
On the best days of my life
I think I saw them all on T.V.
I am so homesick now for
Someone that I never knew
I am so homesick now for
Someplace I will never be

Time won't let me go
Time won't let me go
If I could do it all again
I'd go back and change everything
But time won't let me go

I never had a 'Summer of 69'
Never had a Cherry Valance of my own
All these precious moments
You promised me would come in time
So where was I when I missed mine?

Time won't let me go
Time won't let me go
If you gave me back those years
I'd do it all better I swear
Time won't let me go

Ba ba ba ba ba...

If I could go back once again
I would change everything, yeah
If I could go back once again
I'd do it all so much better

Time won't let me go
Time won't let me go
If I could do it all again
I'd go back and change everything
But you won't ever let me go

Ba ba ba ba ba...


Song: This is Not the End
So the link is good, the video is a fan sub, but the song is NOT 7 and a half minutes long...it ends around the 3:30 mark, so the rest is just dead air. I bet this guy's mixed tapes = FAIL. Anyway good song...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=x5_fsSKn_zE

Lyrics:
Tell me
Come on tell me what you can
Even as you wait for death you're wiser than I am
Tell me what does it mean to exist
I am not a scientist I must believe in more than this
And I can not accept
That everything is real
Is only what our eyes can see
And our hands can feel

[chorus:]
Not even earth can hold us
Not even life controls us
Not even the ground can keep us down
The memories in my head
Are just as real the time we spent
You always be close to me
My friend
This is not the end

I see
I can see you're so afraid
You wear it like a silver hood on you even fear looks good
I wish I wish I had some words to give
But all I can think to say
Is I'll be with you everyday

[chorus]
Not even earth can hold us
Not even life controls us
Not even the ground can keep us down
The memories in my head
I just realized the time we spent
You'll always be close to me
My friend
This is not the end

La la la la la
This is not the end
La la la l al la
This is not the end

I don't care
I don't care what you believe
As long as you are in my heart
You're just as real as me
Maybe even more
Someone has touched so many lives
Can never never die

[chorus]

Song: Believe
So yeah, maybe this makes me a fanboy, but I really like this song. If you were to sit 10 different 'music fans' down and ask them what is it they like most about their favorite music, chances are you'll get 10 different answers. For me, it's lyrics. Tell a good story and I'm hooked. Convey your message with the right amount of passion and I'm with you. This song speaks to me. I was going to use bold font to show you my favorite lines from the song, but dammit they're all so good you should just read the whole damn thing.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=6G7ZLaiPxu0

Lyrics:

The faces all around me they don't smile they just crack
Waiting for our ship to come but our ships not coming back
We do our time like pennies in a jar
What are we saving for [x2]

There's a smell of stale fear that's reeking from our skins.
The drinking never stops because the drinks absolve our sins
We sit and grow our roots into the floor
But what are we waiting for? [x2]

[chorus:]
So give me something to believe
Cause I am living just to breathe
And I need something more
To keep on breathing for
So give me something to believe

Something's always coming you can hear it in the ground
It swells into the air
With the rising
Rising sound
And never comes but shakes the boards and rattles all the doors
What are we waiting for [x2]

[chorus]

I am hiding from some beast
But the beast was always here
Watching without eyes
Because the beast is just my fear
That I am just nothing
Now its just what I've become
What am I waiting for
Its already done

Oh

[chorus]


So that's it for this week...if you liked what you heard, definitely check out the rest of their work. Some suggestions: Tragedy Bound, Above and Below, and Split Me Wide Open.

Next week I field another request...after that I might take a turn for something a little different...who knows.

Later!

MOTD 2.2

Greetings to all, time for another installment of the MOTD...real quickly I want to say thanks to all the folks who have responded with suggestions for future content, and I want to remind everyone to feel free to forward this email to anyone who might be interested. Conversely you can also email me their address or have them mail me directly to be added to the list...

...and now, ON WITH THE SHOW!

Band: The Editors
Blurb: The Editors are another British indie-rock band (labels, blah) but whereas the Kooks were more of a punk and pop flavor these guys trend toward a different sound. They've been likened to Echo and the Bunnymen, Joy Division and Coldplay, all of which I think are decent comparisons. If this already doesn't sound like your cup of tea then you're not alone. I can't say I'm a huge fan, but the songs that I like, I REALLY like. As always, you be the judge...

Album: The Back Room

Song: Munich
http://youtube.com/watch?v=5xRVm-JX5Rk
Lyrics:
I'm so glad I've found this
I'm so glad I did
I'm so glad I've found this
I'm so glad I did

People are fragile things, you should know by now
Be careful what you put them through

People are fragile things, you should know by now
You'll speak when you're spoken to

It breaks when you don't force it
It breaks when you don't try
It breaks if you don't force it
It breaks if you don't try

People are fragile things, you should know by now
Be careful what you put them through

People are fragile things, you should know by now
You'll speak when you're spoken to

With one hand you calm me
With one hand I'm still
With one hand you calm me
With one hand I'm still

People are fragile things, you should know by now
Be careful what you put them through

People are fragile things, you should know by now
You'll speak when you're spoken to

Ahhhhhhhhhhhh

You'll speak when you're spoken to
You'll speak when you're spoken to
He'll speak when he's spoken to
She'll speak when she's spoken to


Song: Blood
http://youtube.com/watch?v=kWFrzh4Elko

Lyrics:
This wicked city just drags you down
You're with the red lights, your side of town

Don't say it's easy to follow a process
There's nothing harder than keeping a promise

Blood runs through your veins, that's where our similarity ends
Blood runs through our veins

Blood runs through your veins, that's where our similarity ends
Blood runs through our veins

There's nothing believable in being honest
So cover your lies up with another promise

Blood runs through your veins, that's where our similarity ends
Blood runs through our veins

Aaaaahhhhhhh

Blood runs through your veins, that's where our similarity ends
Blood runs through our veins

Blood runs through your veins, that's where our similarity ends
Blood runs through your veins

Aaaaahhhhhhh

If there's hope in your heart
It would flow to every part
If there's hope in your heart

Song: Someone Says
I have to say, this is probably my favorite Editors song from either album. I personally prefer the studio version, although the acoustic version is still good.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=vLNoQ63EUgQ <-- Live acoustic video
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/editors%20someone <-- studio version (audio only)

Lyrics:
Someone said they saw you, in the night and on your own
There's beauty in the lonely
You're the moonlight in this town

Seems like every moment is another from before
Your eyes have nothing behind them
Your arms and legs are sore

Neighbour, you've fallen in with the wrong crowd
I've got so much to tell you in so little time

Oh neighbour, keep things close to your heart
If no-one can help you, then how can I

Someone said they saw you
Said they saw it as a sign
Well every single second catches up the next in line

Neighbour, you've fallen in with the wrong crowd
I've got so much to tell you in so little time
Oh neighbour, keep things close to your heart
If no-one can help you, then how can I

Neighbour, you've fallen in with the wrong crowd
I've got so much to tell you in so little time
Oh neighbour, keep things close to your heart
If no-one can help you, then how can I, I, I, I

Someone said they saw you
Someone said they saw you
Someone said they saw you
Someone said they saw you


Album: An End Has a Start

Song: An End Has a Start

http://youtube.com/watch?v=NMKEHQqREMo

Lyrics:
I don't think that it's
Gonna rain again today
There's a devil at your side
But an angel on her way

Someone hit the light
'Cause there's more here to be seen
When you caught my eye
I saw everywhere I'd been
And wanna go to

You came on your own
That's how you'll leave
With hope in your hands
And air to breathe

I won't disappoint you
As you fall apart
Some things should be simple
Even an end has a start

Someone hit the light
'Cause there's more here to be seen
When you caught my eye
I saw everywhere I'd been
And wanna go to

You came on your own
That's how you'll leave
With hope in your hands
And air to breathe

You lose everything
By the end
Still my broken limbs
You find time to mend

More and more people
I know are getting ill
Pull something good from
The ashes now be still

You came on your own
That's how you'll leave
With hope in your hands
And air to breathe

You lose everything
By the end
Still my broken limbs
You choose to mend

You came on your own
That's how you'll leave
You came on your own
That's how you'll leave

You came on your own

You came on your own

Song: Bones

http://youtube.com/watch?v=S1SG1hQObm0

Lyrics:
How can you always be late for your arrival?
You know I'd forgive you every single time

Retreat, retreat
I've fallen at the low tide
Oh retreat, retreat
And meet me by the quayside

In the end all you can hope for
Is the love you felt to equal the pain you've gone through

Are your eyes showing off for mine
Your face in my hands is everything good I need

The system's put in place, put there to protect us
For you I'd throw a lifeline every time

Oh Retreat, retreat
I've fallen at the low tide
Now retreat, retreat
And meet me by the quayside

In the end all you can hope for
Is the love you felt to equal the pain you've gone through

Are your eyes showing off for mine
Your face in my hands is everything good I need

Bones, starved of flesh
Surround your aching heart
Full of love

Oh bones, starved of flesh
Surround your aching heart
Full of love

Bones, starved of flesh
Surround your aching heart

Bones

Oh bones

I watch as your eyes show off for mine
I watch as your eyes show off
I watch as your eyes show off for mine
I watch as your eyes show off

That's it for today...I want to say thanks to Jason Emrich who both introduced me to the band and also suggested them as material for this edition. Coming up in future editions: The Bravery, Boy Hits Car, and what-the-hell-ever else I feel like!

Seeya!

MOTD 2.1

...yeah, so I'm not really gonna keep doing that as I'm far too lazy to keep track of how many emails I've sent.

This week's band is a fantastic little gem I found about 5 or 6 months ago, the Kooks. Although I am typically loathe to label and categorize bands and music, they are most often referred to as indie pop-rock, and I think that's fairly fitting. The original members of the band met at the Brighton Institute for Modern Music while they were students. Some of our 'more established' readers (i.e. older) might recognize the band's name, which they took from a David Bowie song Kooks from the album Hunky Dory.
They have release two studio albums, Inside In/Inside Out and Konk. Today's selections come from both albums as I really have enjoyed them both immensely.

First up, their latest single from the 'new' album Konk is entitled Shine On...This is a nice, poppy tune and I'm sure it will do well as a single, but it's not what really gets me excited about the band. You can decide for yourself:

Shine On - http://youtube.com/user/thekooksofficial?ob=4
I don't think the lyrics are really necessary for this one...

The rest of the songs I'll be linking are personal favorites...starting with Naive. This is a song from their first album and was actually the first Kooks song I'd heard. I can think of a few girls in my past that this song could be about...

Naive - http://youtube.com/watch?v=r-KnNVoFsCc (official video)

Lyrics:

I'm not saying it was your fault
Although you could have done more
Oh you're so naive yet so

How could this be done
Your such a smiling sweetheart
Oh and your sweet and pretty face
In such an ugly way
Something so beautiful
That everytime I look inside

I know that she knows that I'm not fond of asking
True or false it may be
She's still out to get me

I know that she knows that I'm not fond of asking
True or false it may be
She's still out to get me

I may say it was your fault
Cause I know you could have done more
Oh you're so naive yet so

How could this be done
By such a smiling sweetheart
Oh and your sweet and pretty face
In such an ugly way something so beautiful
Everytime I look inside

I know that she knows that I'm not fond of asking
True or false it may be
She's still out to get me

I know that she knows that I'm not fond of asking
True or false it may be
She's still out to get me

How could this be done
By such a smiling sweetheart
Oh you're so naive yet so

Such an ugly thing
Someone so beautiful
And everytime you're on his side

I know she knows that I'm not fond of asking
True or false it maybe be she's still out to get me

And I know she knows that I'm not fond of asking
True or false it maybe be she's still out to get me

Just don't let me down
Just don't let me down
Hold on to your kite
Just don't let me down
Just don't let me down
Hold on to your kite
Just don't let me down
Just don't let me down
Hold on to this kite
Just don't let me down

Another selection from the first album, Sofa Song is probably one of my favorites...it's got more of a punk-pop appeal to it.

Sofa Song - http://youtube.com/watch?v=ED9ILY8C4-8&feature=user (official video)

Lyrics:
The city freeze for
I just realised I don't like you
Me and my girl
Are going out for some air
And I will do my best
Just to get under her dress
And catch you out if I can
On the other side of my sofa

Won't you come on over
At the side of my sofa
Oh won't you come on over

The city heated up it
It got blurry cause I'd had enough
And he tried to take your soul
But didn't realise you keep it in a different hole

Won't you come on over
At the side of my sofa
Oh won't you come on over

So here he comes, a man with
A loaded gun, I don't know if he
Wants my soul or my
Cash flow, I s'pose I don't know

So here he comes, a man with a
A loaded gun I don't know if he
Wants my girl's heart or her pearls
I s'pose I don't know
I s'pose I don't know
I s'pose I don't know
I s'pose I don't know

(note: these lyrics are close but I'm not convinced they're 100% accurate)

The last two selections come from the new album...Down to the Market is up first, and although I can't give you any solid reason why I like this song, I really do. I mean, it's just one of those songs that while it may not be anything groundbreaking is still a good piece in and of itself.

Down to the Market - http://youtube.com/watch?v=Qtx_Hh4CGs0 (fansub)

Lyrics:
I'm gonna take you down to the market, lover
Cuz that's where the trouble starts
You gotta get it into your heart
There are people out there to make you feel bad
But don't you listen, baby don't you listen Because I know you feel that way

But I'm getting so tired of people always crossing my wires
Life's just far too short for miscommunication

I'm gonna take her down to the market today
Cuz that's where the trouble starts
You don't want nobody else
There are people out there to make you feel good
But don't you listen, baby, don't you listen Because you know they want it all

But I'm getting so tired of people always crossing my wires
Life's just far too short for miscommunication.

Oh I'm getting so tired of people always crossing my wires
Life's just far too short for miscommunication.


...aaand last but certainly not least, possibly my favorite track from Konk, Always Where I Need to Be. If you've made it this far chances are you like what you've heard or you're a glutton for punishment. Either way I bet you'll like this one...it's just an insanely catchy tune.

Always Where I Need to Be - http://youtube.com/watch?v=ln_qHyGD9zo&feature=related

Lyrics:

She don't know who she is,
Oh, I can take her anywhere,
Do whatever comes naturally to you,
You know she just don't care,
You know she just don't care,

'Cause I'm always where,
I need to be,
And I always thought,
I would end up with you eventually,

Do do do-dododo, do do do-dododo,
Do do do-dododo, do do do-dododo

Now I see her again,
I have to be a hummingbird,
Whisper words in her ear,
Oh, you know I just don't care,
You know she just don't care,

'Cause I'm always where,
I need to be,
And I always thought,
I would end up with you eventually,

Do do do-dododo, do do do-dododo,
Do do do-dododo, do do do-dododo

Oooh wohwohwoh oh I'm a man on the scene,
I'm a man and I can be so obscene,
'Cause I always think I know how to be,
But I always thought I would end up with you eventually,

Do do do dododo, do do do dododo, Do do do dododo, do do do dododo

Love it? Hate it? Rate it...gimme feedback...I'll take requests. Just remember there's a different between taking requests and filling them.

MOTD 2.0

Greetings to all...
The subject of this email will say a lot to many of you who were familiar with the original incarnation of this 'circulation.' For the rest of you, here's the deal....MOTD - MP3 of the Day. It's that simple...don't worry about spam, it won't be a daily email this time around (I don't have the time). I just kept the name because it makes sense. For those of you who don't know, this is something I started doing back when I worked at Dillard's. I was actually inspired by Laura Smith (aka L L Cool-Smith) who had emailed some songs to like-minded co-workers. So basically I took the idea and ran with it. During it's 5-6 year run, the MOTD very much took on a life of it's own, and I eventually brought in other "DJ's" to spread the workload and bring a little more diversity to the selections. The MOTD became so popular around Dillard's Corporate office that we had a few managers on the list, and in fact even after I left Dillard's some wonderful and very dedicated followers of MOTD took up the torch and continued bringing new music to the masses. Eventually, in accordance with Dillard's management's wishes, the MOTD was brought to an end, but I wanted to take this moment to say thank you to Donald Karpovich and all the rest of the contributors who kept the MOTD alive long after I'd gone. You guys are great, and that's all I ever wanted...

If you want more history on MOTD send me an email, I'll be happy to answer your questions...the bottom line now is it's something I enjoy doing, so I'm starting it up again. This incarnation will be slightly different...to avoid any potential problems with copyright laws, all songs and/or videos will be linked from reputable sites like Youtube.com and Playlist.com. If your workplace blocks these sites either tell me an alternative site I can use or get a new job.

One last caveat...you're not going to like everything I throw at you...if you did, you'd be me. But if it sounds even vaguely intriguing check it out.

And so, without further ado...

MOTD 2.0 brings you....

Kings of Leon are a band of three brothers (Caleb, Nathan, and Jared), and their cousin (Matthew), based in Tennessee. The band's name comes from the three brothers' father and grandfather, both of whom were named Leon. Many of you might know them already, if you do, cool...if not and you want the full scoop on them, check out the wiki...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kings_of_Leon

Note: All songs in this email are from their latest album, Because of the Times.
Kings of Leon - On Call (actual video)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=UEh8OL0Jj-0

Lyrics:
She said call me now baby, and I'd come a running.
She said call me now baby, and I'd come a running.
If you'd call me now, baby then I'd come a running.

I'm on call, to be there.
One and all, to be there.
And When I fall, to pieces.
Lord you know, I'll be there waiting.

To be there.
To be there.

I'm on call, to be there.
One and all, to be there.
And When I fall, to pieces.
Lord you know, I'll be there waiting.

I'm gon' brawl, so be there.
One for all, I'll be there.
And when they fall, to pieces.
Lord you know, I'll be there laughing.

I'd come a running.
I'd come a running.
I'd come a running.

To be there.
To be there.

I'm on call, to be there.
I'm on call, to be there.
I'm on call, to be there.
I'm on call, to be there.


Kings of Leon - Charmer (fansub)
(note: if the screaming bothers you try to get past that and enjoy the music, or else move on to the next song)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=LosEvNxgcUE&feature=related

No real need for lyrics here, if you want them I'll send them to you.

Kings of Leon - Knocked Up (fansub)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=_Mzklb9nkXM&feature=related

I really like the story here...the lyrics will explain if you can't follow him...

Lyrics:
I don't care what nobody says
We're gonna have a baby
Taking off in a coupe De ville
She buckled up on navy
She don't care what her mama said, no
She's gonna have my baby
I'm taking all i have to take
This takings gonna shape me

People call us renegade
'cause we like living crazy
We like taking on the town
Some people getting lazy

I don't care what nobody says, no
I'm going to be her lover
Always mad and usually drunk
But I love her like no other

And the doctor seems to say he don't know
Where we're gonna go?
I'm a ghost and I don't think I quite know
Where we're gonna go?
Where we're gonna go?

People call us renegade
Feel like we're living crazy
We like taking on the town
Some people getting lazy

I don't care what nobody says, no
I'm going to be her lover
Always mad and usually drunk
But I love her like no other

And the doctor seems to say he don't know
Where we're gonna go?
I'm a ghost and I don't think I quite know
Where we're gonna go?
Where we're gonna go?
Where we're gonna go?
Where we're gonna go?
Where?

They gonna call us renegade, woah, oh, oh
Feel like we're living on this town, woah, oh, oh
Woah, oh, oh, woah, oh, oh

And I don't care if you don't win

I don't care what nobody says
We're gonna have a baby
Taking off in a coupe De ville
She buckled up on navy
She don't care what her mama said, no
She's gonna have my baby
I'm taking all I have to take
This takings gonna shape me

Woah, oh, oh, woah, oh, oh


....so, you must like what you've heard if you made it all the way down here, eh? If that's the case, check out some of my other favorites from the album Because of the Times: Ragoo, Fans, Camaro, Black Thumbnail, My Party.