From: owner-ecto-digest@smoe.org (ecto-digest) To: ecto-digest@smoe.org Subject: ecto-digest V13 #664 Reply-To: ecto@smoe.org Sender: owner-ecto-digest@smoe.org Errors-To: owner-ecto-digest@smoe.org Precedence: bulk ecto-digest Saturday, November 22 2008 Volume 13 : Number 664 To unsubscribe: e-mail ecto-digest-request@smoe.org and put the word unsubscribe in the message body. Today's Subjects: ----------------- Best music of 2008 ["Paul Jensen" ] Thanks Paul & Rachael Yamagata [Leonora Christina Skov Subject: Best music of 2008 It's not quite the end of 2008 yet, but looking ahead I don't see any releases looming that will probably make my best of list, so I'm ready to call it now and hopefully get some discussion on people's favorites started. WOW, what a year for music. Incredible. This was an epic list to create, but there were just so many to include!! A few disappointments, too, sadly.. So... to the list!!: 1.) Scarlett Johansson: "Anywhere I Lay My Head"For me, this is THE album of 2008. None other this year were more surprising, fulfilling, rewarding, beautiful or original. It may also be one of the worst-reviewed albums of the year. Unfairly so, I think. But even ecto-folks had a hard time digesting it. Well, I stand by this album with confidence, and would ask it be given a second chance amongst many who disregarded it at first. Scarlett's voice, husky-yet-delicate, is a refreshing change of pace from what we'd expect of a Hollywood starlet. The vocals are a little low in the mix on some songs, but this just adds to the mood of the album.. the songs are very airy - shoegazery, ethereal - why should loud vocals overtake the songs? It's a perfect mix, I'd say. I hope we hear more from her, and hope more people put aside expectations and give her a chance. 2.) Aimee Mann: "#!@*& Smilers!" I'm ready for another declaration: This is Aimee Mann's masterpiece. Who knew?! I've always loved Aimee, but had gotten to the point where I wasn't necessarily anticipating new releases.. and out of the blue came this album, and I casually bought it and thought "Oh, how nice, new Aimee Mann.." But then after a few spins, I started to realize that this batch of songs were some of the smartest and catchiest she's ever written. The songs feel warm, comforting. I love the keyboards. Her voice, while sometimes too nasally and monotone, is a little more full of life here. None of the songs feel repetitive or too long - they're all just-right. I can't think of a single complaint I have about this album, and now I AM anticipating new releases from her! 3.) Donna Lewis: "In the Pink" Maybe you remember Donna Lewis.. it was 1996 and her song "I Love You, Always Forever" was playing everywhere you went..? It still is, to some extent! Well, after a 10-year break, she's come back to the music scene - seemingly from nowhere - with a wonderful album. I've always loved her voice - - delicate and breathy - softly whispered lyrics.. In this album, that soft voice is (at times) accompanied by some interesting electronics, creating a pretty unique dynamic. (check: "Ireland" and "Shut the Sun Out", for examples).. other songs are just quiet and lovely - "Don't Ever" is one of the most beautiful songs she's ever done. This album is a really exciting comeback. 4.) Stoa: "Silmand" In 16 years, Stoa has released just four albums. Composer Olaf Parusel does not rush the creative process. His vision is creating music that will be "timeless". Hearing music from this group was a revelation to my young ears the first time I experienced them. I was probably 18, and it was a whole new kind of music.. ethereal, heavenly voices, neo-classical. There's not much music out there similar to what they do. So of course their newest release, "Silmand", is in my Best Of list. This is probably not as cohesive of an album as their others (I have a hard time capturing the mood of the album) - but there's a great blend of instrumental and vocal tracks. Vocals here are done by Louise John-Krol, whom I have never liked but is actually very good on this album, Mandy Bernhardts provides soaring operatic vocals, and Peter Nooten & Ralf Jehnert add male vocals. In the U.S., you can get the album from Projekt, though it's pricey. It's finally available on i-Tunes, though, for just $9.99. Definitely worth checking out if you want something different, soothing, elegant.. 5.) Sigur Ros: "Med Sud I Eyrum Vid Spilum Endalaust" The band continues to push the envelope of what they can do. "Takk.." is a classic - I hope others here would agree - and I doubted the boys could outdo themselves. But they did. This is a joyful, exciting album. Complex songs filled with beautiful layers of sound. Jonsi's voice continues to evolve. I love the way he's embracing the soaring heights he can take it to. And I love the variety of songs, ranging from completely stripped down ("All Alright"), to beautifully full ("Godan daggin"), to ridiculously over-the-top ("Ara batur"). They can do it all. 6.) Alanis Morissette: "Flavors of Entanglement" Similar to my thoughts on Aimee Mann, I had become jaded with Alanis. Nothing she had done since "Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie" had really struck me as great, yet I kept giving her a chance. And then, suddenly, here she is with a monumental, important release. This album doesn't quite reach the same level as "Supposed Former.." in my book, but it's about as close as we'll get. There's finally some PASSION back in her music! The lyrics are personal, raw, reflective - she's finally come back to her roots. The songs themselves are great, full of energy, anger, and at times, joy. Bravo, Alanis. It's nice to have you back! 7.) Owl City: "Maybe I'm Dreaming" and "Of June" EP I rarely listen to male singers, but for some reason Owl City was recommended to me and I fell in love. There's something strangely feminine about his songs, and I think that's what draws me to his music. It's VERY optimistic and feel-good. It's impossible to be in a bad mood while listening to Owl City. His voice is very soothing, and I love his lyrics - really unusual.. I feel like if everyone was listening to this and it were playing in malls, I'd abhor it. But instead, it's this little cult indie thing that really cool people know about.. so it's okay to enjoy his music!! At least that's what I keep telling myself. 8.) Amanda Palmer: "Who Killed Amanda Palmer?" So, The Dresden Dolls.. hmmm.. how to describe my feelings toward them? Some of their stuff I liked, but there was something off-putting about them, too. They seemed silly..? But I always remained intrigued.. When I heard Amanda Palmer was going to release a solo album, I was really excited to see what would come from more artistic freedom. And wow, what a force she is! This album is a breakthrough for her. What a bizarre (in a good way!) mix of songs. The album is all over the place! From the intense "Runs in the Family" to the heartbreaking ballad "Ampersand" to the showtune "What's the Use of Wondrin?" And don't forget about everyone's favorite doo-wop abortion song, "Oasis"! (brilliant!) I've always known Amanda could be intense, but I like her best on the quieter songs, where we hear her voice, at once fierce, now as cracked and raw as her emotions. 9.) Sarah Brightman: "Symphony" Released way back in January, but definitely good enough to make it on the list. I had some issues with the album at first. I'd love for the WHOLE album to sound like "Fleurs du Mal", which is a brilliant song. Instead, she gets into it and then basically says "Oh, just kidding!" and goes about doing typical songs you'd expect from her for the rest of the album. But it DOES show potential.. I hope she lets her hair down and explores the rock/goth/grunge style of music more. Anyway, once I accepted that the whole album would not sound like that track, I was able to listen to it for what it is.. turns out, there's a lot this album offers. Listen to the remarkable "Sanvean", for example. WOW, just wow. Or the wonderful, powerful duet with Paul Stanley, "I Will Be With You". "Let It Rain" is a great pop song, with great vocals from Sarah. The one fatal flaw this album has?? The absolutely SILLY "Sarai Qui" - which is Faith Hill's "There You'll Be" sung in another language. *rolls eyes* 10.) Amethystium: "Isabliss" Amethystium has been delivering beautiful and unique electro/new-age music for a few years now, and each release keeps getting better. "Isabliss" is their most satisfying from start to finish. It also features some of the best female vocals of any of their releases. Check out the soaring, layered vocals on "La Pluite" or "Strangely Beautiful". How to describe the music? Lite-electronic mixed with warmer, organic instruments like violin, cello.. It's an interesting mix, and throwing those beautiful heavenly voices on top just sweetens the deal. A fantastic album, and it makes me optimistic to see what the future holds for Amethystium. 11.) Maria Taylor & Andy LeMaster: "Savannah Drive" This is a beautiful 7-track EP, and I'll listen to anything Maria Taylor (of Azure Ray) does. In fact, I'd like to go on record as saying I've been giving her "Lynn Teeter Flower" more listens, and I think it's a great album. Last year, I found it to be disappointing, but after revisiting it, I think it's a great album that shows a lot of maturity and growth from Maria as a songwriter. "Savannah Drive" features some stripped-down, acoustic versions of her solo work ("Song Beneath the Song", "Leap Year", for example..) and a few new ones - the charming "Ladyluck" and the emotional, honest "Tell Me". 12.) Goldfrapp: "Seventh Tree" Oh my. I've never really listened to Goldfrapp, but I thought this looked interesting. I was hooked from the unusual, kinda-creepy opener "Clowns", and found the whole album to be fantastic. Great vocals, lyrics, melodies. A wonderful album. I think many of you here already know that, though. 13.) Jack Johnson: "Sleep Through the Static" I've always been weak-in-the-knees for Jack Johnson's beautiful, silky-smooth voice. *melts* There's more "oompf!" to these songs, which is great. The songs are catchy, feel-great (how can you not bob your head to a song like "Hope"?) and incredibly sunny and optimistic. This is one of his strongest releases, and a great place to start if you've not given him a try before. 14.) Enya: "And Winter Came" I won't say "Enya can do no wrong", because I do think she's pretty repetitive sometimes, but this album is fantastic from start to finish. Some Christmas classics, and some originals. This album soothes me, and I'm getting as much playtime in as I can, since people will look at me weird if I listen to it during the summer. :-) 15.) Dido: "Safe Trip Home" At first listen, I thought "This is nice..", but this is one of those albums that grows on you. It may not appeal to the mainstream - many seem to think it's too sad, gloomy, emotional.. but sophisticated music-folk like us on ecto WANT that kind of music. So there may be a lot to offer here. I certainly think so. Dido's voice hasn't changed a bit - still soothing and beautiful. "Grafton Street" and "The Day Before the Day" are definite highlights for me. Not sure how successful this album might be on the charts, but it proves she is a thoughtful, mature songwriter and it's good to have her back! 16.) El Perro del Mar: "From the Valley to the Stars" Oh, I hated this album at first. After loving her first album, with it's bright doo-wop music set against very sad vocals/lyrics, this album was a bore. *yawn* HOWEVER, I gave it another shot, and am so glad I did. This one is a grower. She's exploring different musical territory, and once I accepted that, I was on board for a great ride. This is a really solid set of songs. She creates such a mood! 17.) The Battle of Land And Sea: self-titled (2007) Technically released last year, but discovered this year.. Wow, I think this artist has huge ecto-potential. She reminds me a lot of Marissa Nadler. Spooky acoustic songs, whispery vocals. It's very intimate. Check out "Saltwater Queen" and "You Are A Sailor" for great examples. This is pretty nice!!!: I guess you could think of these as honorable mentions.. 1.) Hammock: "Maybe They Will Sing for us Tomorrow" Hammock came into my world a few years ago with their amazing shoegazer album "Raising Your Voice.." which I HIGHLY recommend. Here, they take us down a new path. These are songs to meditate by, to fall asleep by.. very ambient, quiet.. It's lovely stuff - just not the kind of thing you'll want to listen to all the time. 2.) Nicole Atkins: "Nicole Atkins Digs Other People's Music!" This little 4-track covers EP is a nice treat. Nicole Atkins has one amazing voice! If you never got her debut "Neptune City", you're missing out. This was released to hold fans over until her follow-up album comes out. 3.) The B-52's: "Funplex" It's great to see The B-52's can still release a funky, fun album after all these years! This is a great summer album. "Juliet of Spirits", "Funplex", "Hot Corner" and "Deviant Ingredient" are highlights, but the whole album is a fun ride. 4.) M83: "Saturdays = Youth" Wow, this album gets off to an amazing start. "You, Appearing", "Kim & Jessie" and "Skin of the Night" are incredible songs. Not quite like anything I've heard before. "Graveyard Girl" is pretty good, too (would fit right in on a Sofia Coppola film) - but then the album just loses me. What a shame.. those first few tracks, though? Amazing. 5.) Juliana Hatfield: "How to Walk Away" Is this the year of the comeback, or what? Have been a fan of Juliana Hatfield (and her work with the Blake Babies) since the mid 90's, but haven't cared for much of her stuff since "Bed". This is a surprisingly good batch of songs from her. Great music, lyrics, production. Worth checking out! 6.) Autumn's Grey Solace: "Ablaze" That first track, "Endlessly", is great on so many levels. I listen to it over and over. The whole album is pretty good - but I feel like it ventures into some darker territory. I'd prefer it if the album stayed light and ethereal. 7.) Portishead: "Third" Gosh, I really feel guilty for not liking this album more. I like it, but don't actively listen to it. In a way, I'm impressed that Portishead came back after so many years with their sound still intact, but in a way that disappointed me, too. Maybe I wanted more variety.. to hear something new.. I love the track "The Rip", though, and listen to that frequently.. Maybe Beth Gibbons will do another solo album soon.. Do I care anymore???: A few releases this year left me wondering "Hmmmm, do I even like you anymore?" Ani Difranco's "Red Letter Year" stands out the most. Ani has released some important albums during her career - "Little Plastic Castle" and "Dilate" probably being at the top. But while I was listening to this album, I just threw up my arms and realized "Hmm, I don't think this music is very good, these lyrics aren't very interesting.. I don't think I even like you anymore.." Sorry, Ani. I will always cherish those two albums, though.. While I loved "On Your Shore" and have seen an extraordinary performance of her live, I just don't think I care much for Charlotte Martin anymore. There were a few good tracks on "Stromata", but I found much of it hard to get into. And now we have another EP, "Orphans". I think her songs need to be more fleshed-out. Each one sounds like piano with some "bloops and bleeps" electronics.. I need more variation - more instruments.. and this might sound like I'm nitpicking, but I wish she could edit her songs down the way Aimee Mann does. Charlotte's songs often ramble/repeat on for 4 or 5+ minutes.. I think she could benefit from making snappier, shorter songs, but that's just my opinion. Sorry, CharMar, but I think you've got a ways to go to coax me back to your shore. :-( Mia Doi Todd had an excellent release with "The Golden State" in 2002, and I'm afraid it may end there. With "Gea", I'm ready to call it quits. Maybe with the right music her voice would sound better, but it's all so dreary! Dreary music, and her heavy, monotone voice just drags me down. The songs aren't melodic at all. For instance, I can't think for the life of me why I would say "Oh, I want to listen to 'Kokoro'! That's such a great track!" Sorry, Mia. Disappointments Beach House: "Devotion" Their self-titled debut was a revelation, yet their follow-up felt like a step backward, somehow. It's missing the fragile innocence of their first.. They still intrigue me and I'll still look forward to more music from them, but "Devotion" left me wanting more. Qntal: "Translucida" Another step in the wrong direction. This feels very Ren-Faire to me. The first time Qntal has let me down. :-( The Weepies: "Hideaway" How fantastic was "Say I Am You"? I guess I had huge expectations for "Hideaway" after that release. There aren't as many catchy, memorable songs on the new album, and it just lacks the charm of their previous release.. "Old Coyote" is a great track, though. Cat Power: "Jukebox" Why does Cat Power do these amazing covers for tv commercials, which are never released, and then release a covers album with songs I don't like?? C'mon, Cat Power. You can do better than this! Jenny Lewis: "Acid Tongue" Am I the only one who was severely disappointed with this release?? Martha Wainwright: "I Know You're Married.." Not very catchy, memorable, etc.. disappointed.. can do better.. etc... :-( Poor Martha. Final Fantasy: "Spectrum, 14th Century" EP Oh.. This is... weird.. I *almost* like it because it's so weird. Listen how off-key he sounds in "Oh, Spectrum". Is that intentional? Should I like it BECAUSE it's bad? Listen to those annoying horns - surely they're supposed to sound like that..??? I do like the way the songs meld into each other.. I like the steel drums.. the birds/forest animals noises that are present throughout.. "The Butcher" is an interesting track - not bad necessarily. I'm very on-the-fence on this EP. It evokes strong emotions/reactions from me - I just don't know if that's good or bad. Paul - -- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "This is the time. And this is the record of the time." -Laurie Anderson ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ------------------------------ Date: Sat, 22 Nov 2008 18:57:31 +0100 From: Leonora Christina Skov Subject: Thanks Paul & Rachael Yamagata What a wonderful and inspiring list of music, Paul. Thanks a lot. My list isn't quite ready for publication yet, but I am working on and I can definitely say that Goldfrapp and Maria Taylor are in my top twenty as well (and that Scarlett Johansson isn't..!) However, I have just realized that Rachael Yamagata has finally released new material. A double disc. Have any of you listened to it yet? She gets rave reviews all over the place it seems. There are also new albums out from Bitter:Sweet, Emiliana Torrini, and one of my favourite Swedish singer/songwriters, Hello Saferide. A good year in music, indeed. Best from Russia, Leonora "I never go outside unless I look like Joan Crawford the movie star. If you want to see the girl next door, go next door" (Joan Crawford) www.leonorachristinaskov.blogspot.com > Date: Sat, 22 Nov 2008 09:55:41 -0600> From: lasherboy@gmail.com> To: ecto@smoe.org> Subject: Best music of 2008> > It's not quite the end of 2008 yet, but looking ahead I don't see any> releases looming that will probably make my best of list, so I'm ready to> call it now and hopefully get some discussion on people's favorites started.> WOW, what a year for music. Incredible. This was an epic list to create, but> there were just so many to include!! A few disappointments, too, sadly..> So... to the list!!:> > 1.) Scarlett Johansson: "Anywhere I Lay My Head"For me, this is THE album of> 2008. None other this year were more surprising, fulfilling, rewarding,> beautiful or original. It may also be one of the worst-reviewed albums of> the year. Unfairly so, I think. But even ecto-folks had a hard time> digesting it. Well, I stand by this album with confidence, and would ask it> be given a second chance amongst many who disregarded it at first.> Scarlett's voice, husky-yet-delicate, is a refreshing change of pace from> what we'd expect of a Hollywood starlet. The vocals are a little low in the> mix on some songs, but this just adds to the mood of the album.. the songs> are very airy - shoegazery, ethereal - why should loud vocals overtake the> songs? It's a perfect mix, I'd say. I hope we hear more from her, and hope> more people put aside expectations and give her a chance.> > 2.) Aimee Mann: "#!@*& Smilers!"> I'm ready for another declaration: This is Aimee Mann's masterpiece. Who> knew?! I've always loved Aimee, but had gotten to the point where I wasn't> necessarily anticipating new releases.. and out of the blue came this album,> and I casually bought it and thought "Oh, how nice, new Aimee Mann.." But> then after a few spins, I started to realize that this batch of songs were> some of the smartest and catchiest she's ever written. The songs feel warm,> comforting. I love the keyboards. Her voice, while sometimes too nasally and> monotone, is a little more full of life here. None of the songs feel> repetitive or too long - they're all just-right. I can't think of a single> complaint I have about this album, and now I AM anticipating new releases> from her!> > 3.) Donna Lewis: "In the Pink"> Maybe you remember Donna Lewis.. it was 1996 and her song "I Love You,> Always Forever" was playing everywhere you went..? It still is, to some> extent! Well, after a 10-year break, she's come back to the music scene -> seemingly from nowhere - with a wonderful album. I've always loved her voice> - delicate and breathy - softly whispered lyrics.. In this album, that soft> voice is (at times) accompanied by some interesting electronics, creating a> pretty unique dynamic. (check: "Ireland" and "Shut the Sun Out", for> examples).. other songs are just quiet and lovely - - "Don't Ever" is one of> the most beautiful songs she's ever done. This album is a really exciting> comeback.> > 4.) Stoa: "Silmand"> In 16 years, Stoa has released just four albums. Composer Olaf Parusel does> not rush the creative process. His vision is creating music that will be> "timeless". Hearing music from this group was a revelation to my young ears> the first time I experienced them. I was probably 18, and it was a whole new> kind of music.. ethereal, heavenly voices, neo-classical. There's not much> music out there similar to what they do. So of course their newest release,> "Silmand", is in my Best Of list. This is probably not as cohesive of an> album as their others (I have a hard time capturing the mood of the album) -> but there's a great blend of instrumental and vocal tracks. Vocals here are> done by Louise John-Krol, whom I have never liked but is actually very good> on this album, Mandy Bernhardts provides soaring operatic vocals, and Peter> Nooten & Ralf Jehnert add male vocals. In the U.S., you can get the album> from Projekt, though it's pricey. It's finally available on i-Tunes, though,> for just $9.99. Definitely worth checking out if you want something> different, soothing, elegant..> > 5.) Sigur Ros: "Med Sud I Eyrum Vid Spilum Endalaust"> The band continues to push the envelope of what they can do. "Takk.." is a> classic - I hope others here would agree - and I doubted the boys could> outdo themselves. But they did. This is a joyful, exciting album. Complex> songs filled with beautiful layers of sound. Jonsi's voice continues to> evolve. I love the way he's embracing the soaring heights he can take it to.> And I love the variety of songs, ranging from completely stripped down ("All> Alright"), to beautifully full ("Godan daggin"), to ridiculously> over-the-top ("Ara batur"). They can do it all.> > 6.) Alanis Morissette: "Flavors of Entanglement"> Similar to my thoughts on Aimee Mann, I had become jaded with Alanis.> Nothing she had done since "Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie" had really> struck me as great, yet I kept giving her a chance. And then, suddenly, here> she is with a monumental, important release. This album doesn't quite reach> the same level as "Supposed Former.." in my book, but it's about as close as> we'll get. There's finally some PASSION back in her music! The lyrics are> personal, raw, reflective - she's finally come back to her roots. The songs> themselves are great, full of energy, anger, and at times, joy. Bravo,> Alanis. It's nice to have you back!> > 7.) Owl City: "Maybe I'm Dreaming" and "Of June" EP> I rarely listen to male singers, but for some reason Owl City was> recommended to me and I fell in love. There's something strangely feminine> about his songs, and I think that's what draws me to his music. It's VERY> optimistic and feel-good. It's impossible to be in a bad mood while> listening to Owl City. His voice is very soothing, and I love his lyrics -> really unusual.. I feel like if everyone was listening to this and it were> playing in malls, I'd abhor it. But instead, it's this little cult indie> thing that really cool people know about.. so it's okay to enjoy his music!!> At least that's what I keep telling myself.> > 8.) Amanda Palmer: "Who Killed Amanda Palmer?"> So, The Dresden Dolls.. hmmm.. how to describe my feelings toward them? Some> of their stuff I liked, but there was something off-putting about them, too.> They seemed silly..? But I always remained intrigued.. When I heard Amanda> Palmer was going to release a solo album, I was really excited to see what> would come from more artistic freedom. And wow, what a force she is! This> album is a breakthrough for her. What a bizarre (in a good way!) mix of> songs. The album is all over the place! From the intense "Runs in the> Family" to the heartbreaking ballad "Ampersand" to the showtune "What's the> Use of Wondrin?" And don't forget about everyone's favorite doo-wop abortion> song, "Oasis"! (brilliant!) I've always known Amanda could be intense, but I> like her best on the quieter songs, where we hear her voice, at once fierce,> now as cracked and raw as her emotions.> > 9.) Sarah Brightman: "Symphony"> Released way back in January, but definitely good enough to make it on the> list. I had some issues with the album at first. I'd love for the WHOLE> album to sound like "Fleurs du Mal", which is a brilliant song. Instead, she> gets into it and then basically says "Oh, just kidding!" and goes about> doing typical songs you'd expect from her for the rest of the album. But it> DOES show potential.. I hope she lets her hair down and explores the> rock/goth/grunge style of music more. Anyway, once I accepted that the whole> album would not sound like that track, I was able to listen to it for what> it is.. turns out, there's a lot this album offers. Listen to the remarkable> "Sanvean", for example. WOW, just wow. Or the wonderful, powerful duet with> Paul Stanley, "I Will Be With You". "Let It Rain" is a great pop song, with> great vocals from Sarah. The one fatal flaw this album has?? The absolutely> SILLY "Sarai Qui" - which is Faith Hill's "There You'll Be" sung in another> language. *rolls eyes*> > 10.) Amethystium: "Isabliss"> Amethystium has been delivering beautiful and unique electro/new-age music> for a few years now, and each release keeps getting better. "Isabliss" is> their most satisfying from start to finish. It also features some of the> best female vocals of any of their releases. Check out the soaring, layered> vocals on "La Pluite" or "Strangely Beautiful". How to describe the music?> Lite-electronic mixed with warmer, organic instruments like violin, cello..> It's an interesting mix, and throwing those beautiful heavenly voices on top> just sweetens the deal. A fantastic album, and it makes me optimistic to see> what the future holds for Amethystium.> > 11.) Maria Taylor & Andy LeMaster: "Savannah Drive"> This is a beautiful 7-track EP, and I'll listen to anything Maria Taylor (of> Azure Ray) does. In fact, I'd like to go on record as saying I've been> giving her "Lynn Teeter Flower" more listens, and I think it's a great> album. Last year, I found it to be disappointing, but after revisiting it, I> think it's a great album that shows a lot of maturity and growth from Maria> as a songwriter. "Savannah Drive" features some stripped-down, acoustic> versions of her solo work ("Song Beneath the Song", "Leap Year", for> example..) and a few new ones - the charming "Ladyluck" and the emotional,> honest "Tell Me".> > 12.) Goldfrapp: "Seventh Tree"> Oh my. I've never really listened to Goldfrapp, but I thought this looked> interesting. I was hooked from the unusual, kinda-creepy opener "Clowns",> and found the whole album to be fantastic. Great vocals, lyrics, melodies. A> wonderful album. I think many of you here already know that, though.> > 13.) Jack Johnson: "Sleep Through the Static"> I've always been weak-in-the-knees for Jack Johnson's beautiful,> silky-smooth voice. *melts* There's more "oompf!" to these songs, which is> great. The songs are catchy, feel-great (how can you not bob your head to a> song like "Hope"?) and incredibly sunny and optimistic. This is one of his> strongest releases, and a great place to start if you've not given him a try> before.> > 14.) Enya: "And Winter Came"> I won't say "Enya can do no wrong", because I do think she's pretty> repetitive sometimes, but this album is fantastic from start to finish. Some> Christmas classics, and some originals. This album soothes me, and I'm> getting as much playtime in as I can, since people will look at me weird if> I listen to it during the summer. :-)> > 15.) Dido: "Safe Trip Home"> At first listen, I thought "This is nice..", but this is one of those albums> that grows on you. It may not appeal to the mainstream - many seem to think> it's too sad, gloomy, emotional.. but sophisticated music-folk like us on> ecto WANT that kind of music. So there may be a lot to offer here. I> certainly think so. Dido's voice hasn't changed a bit - still soothing and> beautiful. "Grafton Street" and "The Day Before the Day" are definite> highlights for me. Not sure how successful this album might be on the> charts, but it proves she is a thoughtful, mature songwriter and it's good> to have her back!> > 16.) El Perro del Mar: "From the Valley to the Stars"> Oh, I hated this album at first. After loving her first album, with it's> bright doo-wop music set against very sad vocals/lyrics, this album was a> bore. *yawn* HOWEVER, I gave it another shot, and am so glad I did. This one> is a grower. She's exploring different musical territory, and once I> accepted that, I was on board for a great ride. This is a really solid set> of songs. She creates such a mood!> > 17.) The Battle of Land And Sea: self-titled (2007)> Technically released last year, but discovered this year.. Wow, I think this> artist has huge ecto-potential. She reminds me a lot of Marissa Nadler.> Spooky acoustic songs, whispery vocals. It's very intimate. Check out> "Saltwater Queen" and "You Are A Sailor" for great examples.> > > This is pretty nice!!!:> > I guess you could think of these as honorable mentions..> > 1.) Hammock: "Maybe They Will Sing for us Tomorrow"> Hammock came into my world a few years ago with their amazing shoegazer> album "Raising Your Voice.." which I HIGHLY recommend. Here, they take us> down a new path. These are songs to meditate by, to fall asleep by.. very> ambient, quiet.. It's lovely stuff - just not the kind of thing you'll want> to listen to all the time.> > 2.) Nicole Atkins: "Nicole Atkins Digs Other People's Music!"> This little 4-track covers EP is a nice treat. Nicole Atkins has one amazing> voice! If you never got her debut "Neptune City", you're missing out. This> was released to hold fans over until her follow-up album comes out.> > 3.) The B-52's: "Funplex"> It's great to see The B-52's can still release a funky, fun album after all> these years! This is a great summer album. "Juliet of Spirits", "Funplex",> "Hot Corner" and "Deviant Ingredient" are highlights, but the whole album is> a fun ride.> > 4.) M83: "Saturdays = Youth"> Wow, this album gets off to an amazing start. "You, Appearing", "Kim &> Jessie" and "Skin of the Night" are incredible songs. Not quite like> anything I've heard before. "Graveyard Girl" is pretty good, too (would fit> right in on a Sofia Coppola film) - but then the album just loses me. What a> shame.. those first few tracks, though? Amazing.> > 5.) Juliana Hatfield: "How to Walk Away"> Is this the year of the comeback, or what? Have been a fan of Juliana> Hatfield (and her work with the Blake Babies) since the mid 90's, but> haven't cared for much of her stuff since "Bed". This is a surprisingly good> batch of songs from her. Great music, lyrics, production. Worth checking> out!> > 6.) Autumn's Grey Solace: "Ablaze"> That first track, "Endlessly", is great on so many levels. I listen to it> over and over. The whole album is pretty good - but I feel like it ventures> into some darker territory. I'd prefer it if the album stayed light and> ethereal.> > 7.) Portishead: "Third"> Gosh, I really feel guilty for not liking this album more. I like it, but> don't actively listen to it. In a way, I'm impressed that Portishead came> back after so many years with their sound still intact, but in a way that> disappointed me, too. Maybe I wanted more variety.. to hear something new..> I love the track "The Rip", though, and listen to that frequently.. Maybe> Beth Gibbons will do another solo album soon..> > > Do I care anymore???:> > A few releases this year left me wondering "Hmmmm, do I even like you> anymore?" Ani Difranco's "Red Letter Year" stands out the most. Ani has> released some important albums during her career - "Little Plastic Castle"> and "Dilate" probably being at the top. But while I was listening to this> album, I just threw up my arms and realized "Hmm, I don't think this music> is very good, these lyrics aren't very interesting.. I don't think I even> like you anymore.." Sorry, Ani. I will always cherish those two albums,> though..> > While I loved "On Your Shore" and have seen an extraordinary performance of> her live, I just don't think I care much for Charlotte Martin anymore. There> were a few good tracks on "Stromata", but I found much of it hard to get> into. And now we have another EP, "Orphans". I think her songs need to be> more fleshed-out. Each one sounds like piano with some "bloops and bleeps"> electronics.. I need more variation - more instruments.. and this might> sound like I'm nitpicking, but I wish she could edit her songs down the way> Aimee Mann does. Charlotte's songs often ramble/repeat on for 4 or 5+> minutes.. I think she could benefit from making snappier, shorter songs, but> that's just my opinion. Sorry, CharMar, but I think you've got a ways to go> to coax me back to your shore. :-(> > Mia Doi Todd had an excellent release with "The Golden State" in 2002, and> I'm afraid it may end there. With "Gea", I'm ready to call it quits. Maybe> with the right music her voice would sound better, but it's all so dreary!> Dreary music, and her heavy, monotone voice just drags me down. The songs> aren't melodic at all. For instance, I can't think for the life of me why I> would say "Oh, I want to listen to 'Kokoro'! That's such a great track!"> Sorry, Mia.> > > Disappointments> > Beach House: "Devotion"> Their self-titled debut was a revelation, yet their follow-up felt like a> step backward, somehow. It's missing the fragile innocence of their first..> They still intrigue me and I'll still look forward to more music from them,> but "Devotion" left me wanting more.> > Qntal: "Translucida"> Another step in the wrong direction. This feels very Ren-Faire to me. The> first time Qntal has let me down. :-(> > The Weepies: "Hideaway"> How fantastic was "Say I Am You"? I guess I had huge expectations for> "Hideaway" after that release. There aren't as many catchy, memorable songs> on the new album, and it just lacks the charm of their previous release..> "Old Coyote" is a great track, though.> > Cat Power: "Jukebox"> Why does Cat Power do these amazing covers for tv commercials, which are> never released, and then release a covers album with songs I don't like??> C'mon, Cat Power. You can do better than this!> > Jenny Lewis: "Acid Tongue"> Am I the only one who was severely disappointed with this release??> > Martha Wainwright: "I Know You're Married.."> Not very catchy, memorable, etc.. disappointed.. can do better.. etc... :-(> Poor Martha.> > Final Fantasy: "Spectrum, 14th Century" EP> Oh.. This is... weird.. I *almost* like it because it's so weird. Listen how> off-key he sounds in "Oh, Spectrum". Is that intentional? Should I like it> BECAUSE it's bad? Listen to those annoying horns - surely they're supposed> to sound like that..??? I do like the way the songs meld into each other.. I> like the steel drums.. the birds/forest animals noises that are present> throughout.. "The Butcher" is an interesting track - not bad necessarily.> I'm very on-the-fence on this EP. It evokes strong emotions/reactions from> me - I just don't know if that's good or bad.> > Paul> > -- > ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> "This is the time.> And this is the record of the time."> -Laurie Anderson> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ _________________________________________________________________ Lav det fedeste blink til din Messenger - Klik her http://www2.messengerplayground.dk/spil ------------------------------ Date: Sat, 22 Nov 2008 18:41:56 -0500 From: "Karen Hester" Subject: Amanda Palmer, Webster Hall, Friday (and Kristeen Young) Must be the first time I've seen Amanda before my bedtime. Yey for curfews. When the THUMP THUMP THUMP of the dance party downstairs began, Amanda fought back by dancing to a ghastly techno remix of 'Coin-operated boy'. She said that the Toad's Place gig in New Haven was scheduled before a Yale dance party and things got muddled and the Yale types were let in early. A lost young man wearing pressed khaki trousers, a buttoned down shirt and woolen vest wandered into her changing room. Amanda looked at his clothes and thought "so people like this really exist." Great to hear 'Leeds United' and 'Have to drive' live at last, and solo 'Bad habit' and 'Backstabber' were fun. The rest of the set-list was as usual: 'Astronaut', 'Runs in the family', 'Ampersand', 'Blake says', 'Strength through music', that sentimental bit of guff 'Look mummy no hands', 'Coin-operated boy', 'Mrs O', 'I Google You', 'Half-Jack', closing with ukulele 'Creep'. Amanda's voice was lovely and strong, not as raw and out of tune as recently, but there was lots of reverb helping her :) The violin was lovely (Zoe the cellist is skipping the early US gigs). The feature of this tour is The Danger Ensemble - arty Australians who change costumes to amuse and irritate. Some of the more serious bits were just silly (lots of slow motion; gazing raptly at a Mac during 'Blake says') but the silly bits were fun (insane lustful dancing during 'Coin-operated boy' and Rihanna's 'Umbrella'). They dressed up as miserable suits for 'Have to drive', stood frozen in a spotlight and wept in audience members arms). They dressed up as high school kids for a karaoke 'Guitar hero', which was a disappointment as it's a great song live. Amanda mimed on an unplugged guitar and banged her head with it as she took it off. She was pleased to be dripping blood from mock playing a guitar - very rock and roll. Sounds like things are difficult financially. Amanda's record label (who didn't fund the album at all) refused to even give her $100 for a stage riser so we could see her sitting at her keyboard better. The Danger Ensemble are playing for donations every night. The entire touring party is relying on fans to provide places to stay and food. Absolutely crap sound at the bass end. At Kristeen Young on Thursday at Pianos, the bass was grumbly and muddled too, and I lost my balance once, my body all confused by the vibrations. Kristeen's music was jagged and spiky and energetic. She had mock intravenous tubes on her arms with clothes pegs and wore insane shoes. Her voice was weak so the operatic bits didn't soar and were a bit off-key, and she dropped some lyrics from the last song. Don bounced up and down happily - he's seen her over 100 times! I haven't seen anyone over 10 times, though that's partly due to geographic limitations. K. ------------------------------ End of ecto-digest V13 #664 ***************************