Daily Worthy #5: Come Talk to Me (cover) by Bon Iver

I’m a huge fan of Peter Gabriel. So when I heard Bon Iver covered this song, I had high expectations. Needless to say, it’s a completely different vibe. It’s airy, dream-like vocals are a solid Bon Iver staple. If I’m not mistaken, this cover borrowed the backup vocals of Peter Gabriel’s version with Paula Cole. Good choice. Great cover. Enjoy.

If you’ve never heard the original, check it this moving live performance:

Bob, Meet Bob.

if you like this, try that – #2

I had the pleasure of hearing Robert Francis open up for Fanfarlo (along with Lawrence Arabia–who I could write another whole post on). Francis is passionate about music and it was visible every measure of each song. Again, much like the Keane concert, being front row center had it’s benefits. Find a live video of Francis singing, and if you do, you’ll see he how he makes interesting facial gestures as he sings. It’s strangely effective as I was entertained the whole show. The sound was familiar (and quite refreshing) but couldn’t quite place it until much later.

Then a YouTuber’s comment hit me over the head like a two by four.

Daily Worthy #4: The Man’s Machine by Jamie T

It’s songs like these that make me thankful for the repeat button. Jamie T loves to sing about rebelling and the idealized advantages of being young and stupid…and rightly so as he was born 4 days before me (’86). Part Indie, part punk, this natural talent definitely hints at Joe Strummer, the Stone Roses, Hilltop Hoods, and a bit of the Streets. This song is from his 2009 album “Kings & Queens”.

Here’s to you, Mr. Inventor of the Repeat Button.

Daily Worthy #3: Superhuman Touch by Athlete

I have always held to the statement: “The best music has always come from across the pond.” Athlete is no exception. I haven’t heard from these guys in awhile…at least since 2005 when “Wires” and “Half Light” came out. This song, “Superhuman Touch”, came out last August on the album ‘Black Swan’. Check back often for more updates!

For those looking for a more mellow version, click here.

Daily Worthy #2: Breakneck Speed by Tokyo Police Club

From the same people who brought you hockey, maple syrup, and Evangeline Lilly comes Tokyo Police Club. Their 11 track LP album called “Champ” will be released in early June which includes this song. Keep these guys on your radar for sure.

Daily Worthy #1: Stop for a Minute by Keane & K’naan

Alright. Stop…collaborate and listen…This chemistry was fused with intention. Keane has always been a favorite, especially after seeing them live, front row and center. My feelings haven’t changed as they have teamed up with K’naan, the Somalian rapper who adds some cultural spice to get the song pumping.

Stay thirsty, my friends. Daily song updates will be flying at’cha.

Top 5 Best Songs to Wake Up To

For some, a loud annoying alarm is needed to get them out of bed. For the rest of us, a nice non-intrusive song is just the right thing to wake up to. I’ve chosen my top five songs that have brightened my day. Each alarm is noted with the time the alarm begins and when it stops (to repeat).

5.”Bad” by U2 – 0:00 -0:21

Who doesn’t want to get woken up by the Edge? Not only is this my favorite U2 song, but one of my favorite “alarms.” It’s got just the right amount of rhythmic kick to notice it’s time to wake up. Soft and melodic. A great way to start the day.

February’s Songs of the Month

It’s a lazy man’s SOTM as I will come back to each of these and write about them. For now, just enjoy the music.

“Symphonies” by Dan Black

Oh wait…there’s more!

January’s “Golden Album” & A Special Treat

I’m sorry, but scratch what I said in my last post. If you want my opinion on a certain album…ask. 2009 is over. Let’s talk 2010.

——

all that glitters is not gold.

Back in high-school, I referred to some albums as “Golden Albums.” Believe it or not, it was hard to come across albums like this. The only qualifications? If you don’t want to skip a song throughout the entire album, it’s a “Golden Album.” Some came close, but if one song were bad, it could no longer hold the title.

You’re still spot on, Shakespeare. All that glitters is not gold. Good music does exist and it’s my job to find it. It’s quite a chore these days, but when found, it’s worth it.

To this day, I still have albums that achieve this greatness. This month, it’s Contra by Vampire Weekend.

My Top 10 Most Influential Albums of 2009

2009 was a great year for music. It was the last year of the decade to still be counted the “Double 00′s”. I felt these albums best defined my year in terms of most listened to and enjoyed. Of course there are other albums I listened to and it was difficult for me to pick only 10.

I believe each of the albums are fantastic in their own unique way.

Stay tuned for a more updated Noteworthies in 2010…Believe me…It’s a New Year’s Resolution to update more frequently!