Coldplay - Mylo Xyloto

The waiting wasn't the hard part; it was knowing that the waiting would soon come to an end that hurt the most.  I have been a Coldplay fan since their first EP's "Brothers & Sisters" and "Castles", but like any other music enthusiast, no one could have imagined their forthcoming popularity; though it's no surprise that their popularity continues to grow.  No other band has the ability to cross genres from Alternative Rock - Hip-Hop - Heavy Rock - Country - Synth/Pop, and still keep it relatively Coldplay.  Their music is never about how catchy, how danceable, or how many "oohs" & "ahhs" you can sing along to. It's always about how effective it is in the end.  If a million people hated their music, but one person loved every minute, then it was worthwhile.  Their music is genuine, it's uplifting, and most importantly...it's powerful.
All of you know how excited I was about this album; so i'm going to take this opportunity to give an in-depth, track by track review of Coldplay's fifth studio album Mylo Xyloto:
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Coldplay - Mylo Xyloto

Mylo Xyloto  - Chris Martin on Piano & Johnny Buckland on Guitar, what more can you ask for?  I can't wait to wake up in the morning with this playing in the background and the sun hitting my face; it's gonna' be a great day.

Hurts Like Heaven - I'm gonna' jump the boat right now and say this is my favourite song off the album.  Chris's ability to find rhythms and rhymes that fit perfectly to certain tempos is unparalleled.  This introductory track gives all four members a chance to reintroduce themselves to the world.  The lyrics, the beat, the chords - I just can't get enough.  Plus, the first time I heard this song was live. That never hurts. 

Paradise - Synth based melody, heavily distorted bass guitar and a hip-hop infused back beat does not spell out Coldplay; but because of their innovation and charisma as a band, they pull off one hell of a song and the second single off Mylo. 

Charlie Brown - Without a doubt, my second favourite song off the album.  What impressed me the most was their production and how well they incorporated every single sound.  Every instrument has a chance to stand out and have it's own spotlight.  Pay attention to the extra background voice at 1:10, subtle yet extremely effective.  If you asked me to give you just one song off the album to listen to, it would be this one.  (Hurt's Like Heaven is for me =)

Us Against The World - This song builds and builds, then softly sets you back down to reality.  It is a beautiful song with Will Champion backing up his partner in a melodic harmony.  "Through chaos as it swirls, it's us against the world". I think I found my new favourite lyric. 

M.M.I.X - Roman numeral for 2009, a synth, spacey based introduction to Coldplay's first single:

Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall (ETIAW) - This song totally grew on me.  I was skeptical at first because I couldn't shake the fact that it was so different, not just compared to past Coldplay songs, but to music in general.  Essentially, ETIAW is made up of three parts: Verse/Breakdown/Chorus.  It's one enormous build up, which is probably the reason why they use it as their last song in their live setlist. 

Major Minus - Other reviews have pinned this as the evil cousin of the album and I couldn't agree more.   What stands out the most to me is the bass riff that Guy Berryman performs on this song.  High to low, dragging notes makes him the focal point of the track. 

U.F.O - This was the one that reminded me the most of their older songs.  Chris Martin is a phenomenal songwriter with an even better voice.  

Princess Of China Feat. Rihanna - This was the song that shook Coldplay fans.  It's fine if Coldplay featured in Hip-Hop music, but not the other way around.  Though I have to say, as skeptical as I was, this song couldn't work without Rihanna; the chorus was meant for her.  Worth a listen. 

Up In Flames - This one was oddly one of my favourites as well.  Purely Chris Martin, he produces certain melodies that only a certain few can imagine.  Call me crazy, but I can't scratch the feeling that this should be used in a Disney film...no?  Give it another go. 

A Hopefully Transmission - The third and final intermission to the album.  I love the use of shakers and cowbells...

Don't Let It Break Your Heart - The pick-me-upper if you will. Can be compared to Coldplay's Politik. A booming, fast paced, instrument driven song, where Chris's voice is mostly used as back-up to the guitars and drums. 

Up With The Birds - A fitting ending to another epic tale of Coldplay.  Almost like a goodbye and hope to see you soon rendition.  Johnny breaks through half way into the song and Coldplay is at it again; this time with a more country feel.  A Great ending to another great album.

Coldplay - Mylo Xyloto

5/5

Recommended:

Hurt's Like Heaven

Charlie Brown

Up In Flames

Princess of China

Us Against the World

Arkells - Michigan Left

Nothing is ever good enough for the people you care about, so why is it so hard to believe that nothing is good enough for you?  Self deprecation happens to everyone whether you like it our not, and everyone has their own way of dealing with such torment.  For me, I have my friends, my family and my music.  No not my own, just yet, but music that I believe was written specifically for me, right for this moment. Albums that should just be named "Jason's album".  Motivation is always hard to find, but when it comes by, its easy to let go of, that's why we always search for it.  I haven't been finding too much music lately, what with all the post grad business, but that doesn't mean i've stop listening; luckily I found an album that catered to what I was feeling at the time.  The Arkells is a Canadian band from Hamilton Ontario and their sophomore album Michigan Left doesn't shy too far away from their first album, Jackson Square.  You can hear the influence of other great Canadian bands such as Toyko Police club and The Trews in their music.  Possible contender for album of the year at the Juno's.....nothing like an Arcade Fire Grammy, but never a bad thing to support a fellow Canadian band.
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Arkells - Michigan left

The Arkells is a true Rock & Roll band, no need for showmanship, no gimmicks or crazy light shows, they speak through their music, their instrument and their charisma.  Every time I listen to their music, I try to picture them writing it, then performing it and having the time of their lives.  I remember playing with my first band back in high school, and even when it wasn't music any of us really truly loved, we made it from scratch. Our identity was entirely in this music and it was overwhelming.  There was a video of them recording "On Paper"and it just reminded me of that moment where the four of us finished writing a song, and on that final note we all stopped and looked at each other and said...."yea!" Great moment, better feeling.  During "Michigan Left", right away you can pick out the Tokyo Police Club in every strum.  The fun, funky rhythm, with a little mix of reggae, really uplifts anyones sub-par feelings towards life.

I always tell people when i'm teaching them an instrument, even before I teach them anything, is to just play.  Play whatever you can or whatever you know, because more times then not, you hear something no one else can when you're just having fun.  Music usually starts off not what it is intended to sound like, much like life itself.  If you wish for life to turn out the way you intend it to be, you're straight out of luck buddy, 'cause that doesn't even make sense.

Arkells - Michigan Left
3.5/5
Recommended songs:
On Paper
Michigan left
Book Club
Kiss Cam
Whistleblower

Freedom Or Death - Ego

It's really great to be back writing and having the motivation to share music with you again. I've been excited for a while to share my life story and what i've been listening to along the way.  It was important to choose something special to share with you after such a long absence, though honestly I haven't found anything that truly stands out to me...'til now.  But first lets get a run down of what's been going on.  I finished school - thats right, I graduated people!  I finished a summer job and i'm just about to begin a new one with my parents.  I've started to record again and I've also started giving drum lessons to beginner drummers (if you're interested, let me know).  My sister is back from her stay in New York and it's always nice to have her back; and i'm happily in a relatively new relationship in which I don't see the end coming anytime soon (thats a good thing right??) All in all, i'm still living life and i'm still listening to music, and I have a little story that goes along with this artist.
I found this artist a while back, loved the song but could never find the album.  I went to HMV and unfortunately they told me they wouldn't be shipping in any new music in since they were closing down.  I went back a month or two after to see their closing sale, and there it was, sitting there, alone with all the discount stickers.  I felt like they ordered just one for me, and I never came to pick it up until now...It was meant to be.  So here you go....Freedom Or Death
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Freedom or Death - Ego

I'm sorry for such a long (re)intro to this blog, but I was just so excited to be back; and to be honest there are only two songs I really want you to listen to anyway.  One of them is the first song that attracted me the most to this band: "This Crowded Room".  If you listen closely, front man Sway hardly sings without a harmonization.  Every section, whether it be the verse, chorus or breakdown, someone in the background is singing or humming in a different timing or a different tone; its simply genius.  Their cross between electronic, hip/hop infused alternative style makes them unique in so many ways.  If I could make a comparison, (without getting any hatred from it) I would say they sound much like the Toronto sensation "The Weekend".....but better.  Just take a listen to my second request: "Virginia Woolf".  The voice is such an important instrument in which they use to their advantage.  Listen to the slight vibrato during the second verse at 1:10; I mean really, who thinks of this stuff?

This is truly a great piece of work which should make its way to the mainstream; though i'm quite glad, and proud that I found it before the radio destroyed it.  None the less, it was something to share, and something i've wanted to share for a while.  It's never too late to share a good thing. If you keep it amongst yourself, it slowly becomes stale.  So share everything you got...before it starts to turn on you!

Freedom Or Death - Ego
4/5
recommended songs:
This Crowded Room
Virginia Woolf
Human
Nobody Listens

Stornoway - Beachcombers Windowsill

I know it's been a while since i've written anything lately but to my defence, there has been a million things unfolding in the last month or so and I tried to find the perfect album to see fit.  First off, let me begin with my status as a university student............I'M DONE!  I know right, I finally finished my twenty one years of schooling and to be honest, it's a little surreal, though when it does hit me, I don't doubt that it'll hit me like a bag of bricks.  Second, I found two other jobs that will eventually help me with my future plans, although one of these occupations diverts me back into the kitchen where the smell of fried foods, a number of different sauces and sweat all mixed into one is so potent that not even the strongest of colognes can hide it....just think of the money.  And third, I believe I have finally found someone that can bare/withstand my randomness, who I can say is a really good friend to me as well; but that's a whole other story.  Either way, epic right?...So I knew I had to take the time and find the right album to share my story, and here it is...

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A pair of brothers playing up-beat and folky tracks while using an assortment of different instruments make up the core of Stornoway.  With comparison to the very talented Mumford & Sons, who's influential music exploded onto the indie music scene, Stornoway's sound is fresh, unique, and a perfect soundtrack for a road trip in the summer.  "Zorbing" is by far the most unique song i've heard in years.  Listen to the low harmony in the pre-chorus beginning at 0:36, and the eccentric bass line beginning at 1:20.  Their arrangement of sound is quite reassuring, simply because it proves how talented people can be without having to mimic others.  "Fuel up"...do you remember that feeling you get when you hear a certain song, or remember a certain memory and you get this sudden, yet comforting chill that is simply unexplainable?...well take a moment and listen to this song.  That exact moment happened to me at the 1:32 mark when the bassist drops an unbelievable rift that just sends chills down my spin.  If I could define that feeling with one word, I think I would call it 'Swoon'!

I enjoyed this album very much. One, because its simply brilliant; two, because their song writing ability is very influential; and three...they reassure me that in fact, what i'm doing in my life is the right choice.  It may not be the best, but it's the one I want to take - which is the only choice for me.  If I could give anyone advice, (since i've been getting the best as of late) I would say to just take a new look at your goals and accomplishments. You'd be surprised at what you may find by simply keeping the same path with a different approach.  At the end of it all, you are what you love, not what loves you...

Stornoway - Beachcombers Windowsill
4.5/5
Recommended songs:
Zorbing
Fuel Up
Watching Birds
I Saw You Blink
Here Comes The Blackout

The Weekend - House of Balloons

Respect is extremely difficult to come by. It's not just something you can slap a label on and move on, it's something you have to earn and prove you deserve.  I have great respect for people, much like my parents, who came to a foreign country not knowing the language, who fought their way against all odds, and earned their respect.  Our generation is so blinded by the things we are supposed to earn with the things we are given. It's hard to understand what respect is supposed to stand for.  So I decided to write a review on an artist who I believe has given great dividends to a genre in which has lost its respect throughout the years.  Coming from a generation where auto-tune, dub-step and mediocre lyrics have somehow taken top reign in the music industry, true R&B has fallen off the map and I for one missed out on the chance to succumb to artist such as Boyz II Men, Aaliyah, Mary J. Blidge, Erykah Badu, Marvin Gaye, all of which have been forgotten to some extent.  But we can't dwell on what we've missed, instead we should appreciate what R&B has become and use these artists as inspiration. Give them our respect.

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The Weekend - House of Balloons

To set the record straight, no I don't think this mix-tape has saved or somehow reincarnated the R&B genre. Instead, I think it has done a great job producing its own rendition; creating a certain sub-genre that pays dividends to its origins, while staying modern. Abel Tesfaye, stage name The Weeknd, is a Toronto based artist who draws his listeners in with his slow, seductive and melancholic voice, backed up by a dark and eerie production that mirrors the late hours of a very....very long night out.  "The Party & The After Party" is a perfect example of what you may listen to while fixing yourself up, or slowing yourself down from the extremities of a long night.  There are a few things that kept me interested while listening to this track.  1) the sample that is used during the chorus is equally haunting and beautiful, which fits perfectly to its theme... and 2) I can't help but recognize the similarities between this song and Beach House's "Take Care".  Then again, there are two parts to this seven minute track, so I'll leave it to you to describe what you feel while listening.  If you haven't realized already, Tesfaye uses themes such as sex, drugs and money in most of his music, which is basically the exact same concept for modern day rappers; Tesfaye just makes it more appealing.  "The Morning" is another great example of Tesfaye's rendition of sub-genre R&B (comparable to Drake's: Houstalantavegas).  The mixture between Hip-Hop, alternative rock and R&B are all evident in Tesfaye's music, which I believe is a step in the right direction for this coming of age sub-genre.

Respect, again, is only earned when it is equally received.  You cannot go out of your away and just expect others to respect you for what you've done, you have to earn it.  It may takes months, or years, or even decades to earn the respect of others, but when you believe in yourself, it may take mere seconds. After that, everyone else's opinion just doesn't seem to matter.

The Weekend - House of Balloons
4/5
recommended:
The Party & The After Party
The Morning
Loft Music
High For This
What You Need

Lupe Fiasco - Lasers

Simply put, this review is all about having to do shit you just don't want to do.  Accomplishments are one thing, where you want to finish what you've started for your own benefit, but having to do something because of a deadline, more often then not, you tend to finish with something mediocre.  Now i'm not saying that Lupe's "Lasers" is a terrible album, i'm just saying that i've been waiting for this album for quite some time, and it didn't really deliver.  Then after a couple clicks of the mouse, I notice that Lupe himself bashes on his own album.  "When I think about what it took to actually get the record together and everything that I went through on this record—which is something I can’t separate—I hate this album".  This of course has much do with his record label wanting something more commercial so they can sell more albums, but when you have no motivations and a deadline heading your way, you better be ready for some criticism.  
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Lupe has delivered some memorable tracks, such as the infamous "kick kick push", and "hip-hop saved my life", so there was no doubt I was going to be excited for this album to release.  His first single "The Show Goes On" emphasized my excitement for two main reasons: 1) the track samples one of my all time favourite songs in "Float On" by Modest Mouse, and 2) he speaks about the struggles of fame but no matter the circumstance, the show must go on, making the theme ambiguous.  I have a new found respect for Lupe because of his taste in music, but after listening to his whole album, trying to find a glimpse of what may resemble his old style and flow...it just wasn't there.  Tracks like "State Run Radio" (hip-hop rock with repeating chorus line?), "I don't Wanna Care Right Now" (his rendition of Enrique Iglesias "Tonight") and "Break The Chain" (Lupe going DubStep)...you can just tell that Lupe isn't comfortable for the direction he is heading towards, no thanks to his commercial based record label.  Without bashing his album to hard, Lupe does produce a few tracks that do deserve to be notified.  "Letting Go" is surprisingly rhythmic, and the hook is quite catchy.  I won't be surprised if this was his next hit single".  "All Black Everything" is another track I caught myself bobbing my head to, and I realize that it's true; if you have a title that catches your eye, you tend to pay a little bit more attention to it.


I guess this criticism may be coming from the extra negativity of me having to do three 2500 word essays in a span of two weeks, and i've only finished one.  Though it all comes down to the feeling of accomplishments.  I know that if I finish these three, and if I just bite the bullet and not loose control, I will finish what I started and I wont have to face all these critics telling me I have to do it a certain way in order to be successful.  Sooner or later I will be able to do shit my way and I wont have to speak for anybody, people will have to speak for me.  Someone commented on my post, telling me that finishing an essay during St.patty's day isn't cool at all, but it does sound like a coming of age CEO.....yea damn straight!


Lupe Fiasco - Lasers
2/5
Recommended:
The Show Goes On
Letting Go
All Black Everything
Till I Get There
Coming Up

Ida Maria - Fortress Round My Heart

The world is so exciting, there is so much to explore and so much to do in one lifetime.  It's kind of hypocritical of me to say that since I still live in Markham, but that doesn't mean that my mind is under constraints only because my body is confined to one place.  I realized how young I actually am and how lucky to still have the time to do what I want to do, an epiphany if you will.  I don't see the problem of setting extremely high goals, which are usually unachievable but aiming for them any way, not realizing where you might land.  You may end up pissed off or utterly disappointed, but at the same time, you wouldn't have known if you haven't tried.  So in that case...i'm gonna aim high....really high...put a blindfold on and ignite the tip...care to join?
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Ida Maria - Fortress Round My Heart

All this talk about control makes me think of how little control we actually have.  Yes we have control of our actions, reactions and thoughts, but we have absolutely no control over the outcome...to me, thats extremely exciting, and I thought Ida Maria's album Fortress Round My Heart is the perfect example of control vs. chaos.  Let's start with the aspect of chaos and what better song to represent chaos then "Oh My God".  Straight forward lyrics (mostly repeated), four chord progression, and a chorus line that speaks volumes to the subject of chaos.  "Oh my god, oh you think i'm in control, oh my god, oh you think it's all for fun"...oh and don't forget that slide bass line at the end of the song which is an awesome yet simple addition.  Now if we switch sides for a moment and find a song that represents the aspect of control, "Leave Me Let Me Go" does just that.  A slow, melancholic song that tells the tale of lost love and the venture to find the feeling of happiness once again.  What caught my attention during this song is the build up in the pre-chorus, where Ida rises the tone and rides her emotions high until she lets it fall to the chorus.  Finally we end off with another chaotic track which is quite self-explanitory through its title: "I Like You So Much Better When Your Naked"...basically just listen, have fun with it and take it as you will...cause to be honest...i'm still a little confused lol.

All in all this is just a fun album to listen to.  It's not too serious, nor is it too intense to enjoy, plus it went hand and hand with what I was going through while listening.  Since all my friends were out drinking and partying while I was stuck at home working and writing my essay(s), I needed to listening to something that would lighten up the mood.  We are all way to young to take things so seriously.  We have to realize that there will always be a chaotic side and a controlled side to a story...so lets all just chill out, do what we want to do and live our age for once!

Ida Maria - Fortress Round My Heart
3/5
Recommended:
Oh My God
I Like You So Much Better When Your Naked
Louie
Leave Me Let Me Go
Morning Light

Esperanza Spalding - Esperanza

Things are falling into place and the weather is finally settling down.  Maybe this is just the calm before the storm but till then I can finally take a little breather.  All of these descriptions are metaphors of course, but needless to say, my workload has settled down and my work schedule is about to take a hiatus.  The world knew I needed a break and it gave to me.  So with that said, I wanted to reflect on my current status with an album by an artist who recently won best new artist a few days ago at the Grammy's.  I'm not going to lie, I was just as confused as the next person by their decision to choose such an artist, let alone such a genre, for this award...but then I gave it a listen and i started to understand...the concept of do what you love and it'll take you far was evident.  With artists such as Lady Antebellum and Arcade Fire taking home major awards, it's no secret that the game is changing and personality seems to be shaping the directions of the critics.  My job for example takes a lot out of me (distance, dealing with fans, always keeping a positive attitude), but I absolutely love it, and no matter how tired I am from school or other social activities, I know that if i just do what i love and not act like its my job, it'll take me far.  So far it's working in my favour and i'm glad that the same concept is working for an artist like Esperanza Spalding.
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Esperanza Spalding - Esperanza

Jazz is not my strong suit but I can still tell if a flow is working or not.  Esperanza started playing the double bass when she was four and attended the Berkeley college of music, which is essentially the Harvard for music students.  Her trend of adapting Brazilian style to fit with jazzy tones is exquisite, it's catchy, it's smooth and you can just tell that she loves it...you have to feel it.  Her bass and her voice are an extension of her body and her first single "Precious" is proof of just that.  This record is by far the most mainstream of her records, though much like Drake's hit single "Over", I guarantee you that Precious will grow on you without a doubt.  "Ponta De Areia" is another beautiful record sung entirely in Portuguese, adapting her brazilian roots to a jazz rendition.  Since i'm not educated in the Portuguese language, I took this opportunity to just sit and listen, especially to the voice since the voice is essentially another instrument in itself.  I have a great respect for jazz musicians, not only because its bloody difficult to play, but it pushes you to feel the music, not just to perform it.

My sister pointed out that you have to have a certain form of recognition in order to be deserving of an award, such as best new artist.  I agree to an certain extent only because fame and recognition is what artist gain through time, but not what artist usually strive for...well I can't speak for all because i'm not an artist myself, but you can't be too surprised for Esperanza to win this award.  Personally I would of chosen Mumford & Sons because of their pure talent and rapid recognition, but the category was up in the air...secretly everyone cheers for the underdog and sometimes they prevail.

Esperanza Spalding - Esperanza
4/5
Recommended Songs:
Precious
Ponta De Areia
I know You Know
Body & Soul
Ps...I added a few things on the bottom...check it out!

Arcade Fire - The Suburbs

It's already February, which means that the new year is no longer new, it's relative to our agendas and adding that extra one shouldn't be an issue...but doesn't it seem that time is moving so fast, you hardly realize that its passing by?  The date moves closer and closer, and as I wake up for my unnerving 8:30 Monday morning class, I begin to realize that there will always be a deadline.  We are always waiting or working towards a certain date that we either dread, or ponder upon...and because of these deadlines, we loose track of the rest of the month, or the other 27, 29, or 30 days.  We look forward to the marked days on our calendars, and when these days pass, we look to the next and the cycle continues.  I to am a victim of these addicting traits, which ultimately left me wondering where in the world January just went, but to be honest, deadlines and due dates are inevitable...everyone works towards something, and when we reach that goal, we set another.  You can always finish what you've started but you can never be truly satisfied...there is always something new you can accomplish.

#19

Arcade Fire - The Suburbs

Expectations are another theme that goes hand and hand with deadlines.  If you reach a deadline it doesn't necessarily mean you've reached a certain expectation.  Arcade Fire on the other hand takes the pressure from the success of their debut and sophomore albums and release what some critics have acknowledged as the best record in 2010.  The Suburbs has by far reached and exceeded the expectations of their fans and critics alike with their nine piece multi-talented band.  Their instruments include guitar, bass, violin, viola, double bass, cello, percussions, drum kit, keyboards, harps, accordions, mandolin, and some others i've never even heard of...and their sound isn't to bad either.  "We Used To Wait" (Enter your address, its a very cool video) is such a great record I don't even know where to start.  There are layers upon layers of creativity that just scream out excellence.  Subtle layers such as the ghosted guitar riff at 0:38, the back up ascending vocals in the chorus beginning at 2:28, or bass line during the bridge at 3:53 make this record that much more creative.  The three chord piano lick that is looped through out the whole song holds the record together, allowing this Montreal native band to explore their own creativity.  "Sprawl II" is another record I found extremely compelling...the live version is even better.  For my fellow Arcade Fire fans, Sprawl II in my opinion is the following up of "Haiti" from their first record Funeral.  Both records feature the voice of Regine Chassagne and you can't help but fall in love with her voice, and her character on stage.  At one point during the pre-chorus, Regine sings "that we can never get away from the Sprawl".  During this verse, she ascends then descends the range of notes, as if she was painting a portrait of a mountain top, ranging her notes from high to low.  It's such a beautiful concept.

I want to think that after I am done school, I will be rid of all the due dates and deadlines that have me loosing sleep for the last four years, then again, i'm also afraid it might get even worse.  Maybe I have finally found what school has been trying to prepare me for...always make the deadline.  I am this much closer to my deadline, I just need that one last push.

Arcade Fire - The Suburbs

5/5

We Used To Wait

Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains)

Rococo

Ready To Start

Modern Man

Funeral

Neon Bible

Augustana - Can't Love, Can't Hurt

I am a firm believer of the term "don't let anyone tell you what you can and cannot do".  If you have the drive and potential to do what ever you are set out to do, nothing in this world can stop you.  I enter into my last semester of my short university career and when looking back on my school days, I was never a very good student.  Not in a skip school, never attend sort of way, I was just unable to get good grades no matter how hard I tried.  My sister is a huge role model for me, and for good reason too...smart, determined, focused, driven...and an A student.  Me on the other hand, I have the drive, I have the determination, but a C+, B student at best.  Never did I have a mark where my parents could keep on their fridge and ponder at the fact that both of their kids are A students in a foreign country where they couldn't even speak the language when they arrived.  So when I surprised my parents with my first A in a Canadian university where "A's" were usually bell curved, the look that my mother had on her face was priceless, it was a mixture of emotions where she was speechless and on the brink of tears...in other words the happiest i've seen her in years.  It took me 15 years of schooling, and thousands of dollars, but that one "A" and the smile on my mother's face was worth ever cent.
#18

Augustana - Can't Love, Can't Hurt

You may remember this band from a couple of years ago with their hit single "Boston"...ring a bell?  Remember that catchy piano lick in the beginning of the song?  If not, you may remember them playing in the background of certain melodramatic television shows...cause that's where I found them.  Don't start teasing me now, "Friday Night Lights" is an extremely well written, well acted show, and the music they chose lead me to a great album, and another review.  The song that I was so determined to (as my sister and I would put it) Shazam was called "Fire".  This fully acoustic piano track is a great example of lead singer Dan Layus's song writing ability.  His choice of chords and his heartfelt lyrics apprehend the audience up until his final howl of the word "home", staying with the note for at least fourteen seconds...I couldn't keep a high note for more then four seconds even if I tried.  "Twenty Years" is another song that is driven by Layus's piano and soft spoken lyrics.  The melody he chooses are simple, but the way he arranges them are quite unique.  For example, the first two bars of "Twenty Years" stays with a traditional four bar stanza, but on the third bar, he switches from a sharp to a flat, rearranging conventional chords to an unconventional melody.

I choose this album mainly because it was simple and too the point.  From the very first note, you were able to tell that the band had a connection with each other and the music they were writing.  It was real, nothing fake, and they had nothing to hide, which reminded me that simplicity is still the answer to many things.  There is always pressure all around us to do something out of the ordinary, something you're not comfortable with, something that you know you wouldn't do if you had a choice.  The reason I got a good grade was because I chose to keep it simple.  I chose a subject I was comfortable discussing, and wrote a paper on which I felt was something I would even say out loud.  Just keep it simple, with anything, doesn't matter if no one else likes it...."you just gotta do you".

Augustana - Can't Love, Can't hurt
4/5
recommended:
Fire
Twenty Years
When Love Went Wrong
Hey Now
Sweet & Low

Lady Antebellum - Need You Now

So I know it's been a while since my last review...I guess it's just been a while since I found something that would get me back on track.  It's the first night of the new year and like every other year, I was hoping that I would feel different, that 2011 would be a milestone and that everything would fall into place.  Well wishful thinking usually takes the better of me but while everything remains the same, it is in fact a new year which I find very comforting.  It's another year for me to learn and discover more about myself, allow myself to take chances that i've never dreamt of in previous years, and be able to make new mistakes that I would learn from and look back after another three hundred sixty five.  2010 was also filled with memorable moments as well...I was able to attend my first wedding for a friend...a best friend appointed me to plan out his bachelor party...found out that my cousin is having a baby...watched my sister purchase her first car...have my family be behind me for my future plans...and most importantly..not being able to remember anything from the new years party
.......oh and one more thing....being able to write this blog

#17
Lady Antebellum - Need You Now

I have to say..this album is phenomenal.  This trio of country singers/musicians have me bobbing my head on the subway as if I were listening to a new jay-z record.  Their song writing ability is simply refreshing and their sound blends with the sweet trends of country-pop and alternative rock.  Lady Antebellum has won a Grammy for best duo performance of the year, and has been nominated for countless CMT and AMC awards including Best New Artist, and Best Single of the year.  It is extremely hard to pin point one or two songs that may do justice to the album as a whole, but due to my constraints, I have to say "Hello World", and "American Honey" nabs my choices.  What caught me the most about the record "Hello World" were the lyrics that lead/background vocalist Charles Kelley evokes in this song, speaking about life itself and how we take it to seriously.  The structure of the song is very climactic, reaching peak after peak until it concludes in a beautiful instrumental ending.  "American Honey" is where the country flow kicks in, painting a vocal picture of a hot summer day with the wind on your back. (not to get you confused, it's the same band, but the lead vocals change from time to time with Charles and Hillary sharing the role)

You have to realize that every year is going to be different, your going to be a year older, an age you probably wont be or don't want to be familiar with.  Your going to lose friends you wish you would never leave, but your also going to gain new friendships with others you've never thought you would have.  Your going to make mistakes you wish you've never made, but realize that you've learned and those mistakes will never be replayed....and you're going to be able to spend another year with your family cause you never know when thats going to end.....
so happy new year to you all and I wish nothing more but the best for you and your family

Lady Antebellum - Need You Now
4.5/5
recommended:
Hello World
American Honey
Need You Now
When you got a good thing
Our Kind of Love