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The 2004 Gaming-Age FALL INTO WINTER Mix Exchange Review Thread (DEADLINE FRI 12/17)
- Thread starter Agent Dormer
- Start date
- Status
Agent Dormer
Dirty Drinking Smoker
Here's the deal - to get the mixes of your group you'll need to log into a different account:
IP: 67.15.40.9
U/P: gaf/gaf
All the mixes are there, so go nuts.
IP: 67.15.40.9
U/P: gaf/gaf
All the mixes are there, so go nuts.
Agent Dormer
Dirty Drinking Smoker
AstroLad said:
I know I haven't told you this lately... but I love you.
Hey...it's Friday!
Agent Dormer -- it would be good if you posted a list of people who have NOT completed their promised mixes as of COB today as a gentle reminder to get them done.
I'll leave this stickied for a little while so people can post their reviews. Speaking of which -- what is the deadline for reviews? I see a lot of track listings posted, but very few reviews.
Agent Dormer -- it would be good if you posted a list of people who have NOT completed their promised mixes as of COB today as a gentle reminder to get them done.
I'll leave this stickied for a little while so people can post their reviews. Speaking of which -- what is the deadline for reviews? I see a lot of track listings posted, but very few reviews.
Agent Dormer
Dirty Drinking Smoker
-jinx- said:
I say we give a week for reviews for anyone in the digital exchange. I can't speak for how long it's going to take those who did it the snaiol mail way. Also, I'll have that list up shortly. I just finished my mix and it's going up in a moment.
Litigation Manuel
Member
ASTROLAD'S REVIEW:
1. Fuck This Shit- Belle and Sebastian: A nice calm opening track, good, but not too interesting. Pretty simple, but a good tranquil listen. 6/10
2. The Places We Go- The Softies: Very quiet, relaxing. I like the harmonies, they blend beautifully and sofly. A good track. 7/10
3. Spit on a Stranger- Pavement: I'm familiar with Pavement, but not this album or song. It's okay, feels a little generic for Pavement, although they mostly created that sound. Not bad, but I prefer other Pavement to this. 5/10
4. Crown of Love- The Arcade Fire: This is a pretty good track. From what I've heard of Arcade Fire, they seem like generic indie rock, but good. However, this track feels a little more individual yet retaining the goodness. Good, quiet again, and I like the effect added by the string ensemble. 7/10
5. You Were Right- Badly Drawn Boy: It's good, the break in the middle breaks it up quite nicely. The lyrics are very interesting, especially when he just starts listing musician's deaths he remembers. Very simple, but enthused and enjoyable. 8/10
6. Tears are in Your Eyes- Yo La Tengo: I'm vaguely familiar with this group, I only really know that I like them. This track ensures this opinion. I'll be sure to get more familiar with this group. You seem to have a good tranquil opening to this mix. Good so far. The chorus especially is good on this song. The music doesn't really change, but it still draws great attention and beauty at specific parts. 8.5/10
7. Those to Come- The Shins: Another quiet track. It's good. Not the best Shins song, but fitting for the mix so far. 6.5/10
8. Haiku Ten- Cat Power: Thank you! I love this woman's voice and have been looking to hear more Cat Power. A good track, short, but good. Huzzahs! 7/10
9. Into my Arms- Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds: It's okay. I'm not a big Nick Cave fan. Kinda boring, which would be okay if the lyrics were great, and drew the attention. However, they feel kinda sappy and lovely. Plus, the chorus feels a bit forced. 4/10
10. Mt. St. Helens- Mirah: Quiet, but enjoyable. Neat song topic, and good lyrics. I love when the, um... noise comes in. It's enjoyable. The gradual building of layers really makes this song. I may look into Mirah more. 8/10
11. I Hung My Head- Johnny Cash: Good choice, a good Johnny Cash song. The lyrics tell a great story, he is very emotional, all around good song. 8/10
12. Valentine Heart- Tanita Tikaram: A very nice voice. Very calm, a bit boring, slightly over-dramatic. Not bad though. 5/10
13. It's Rough- Smog: Not bad. A little depresssing, but a good song. I like the build up. Not the best candy cane eating music, which I was doing at the time. Seriously, why didn't you consider my candy cane needs when making this mix? Why do I even try with you
. Anyway, not bad. 7/10
14. Green Bird- Yoko Kanno: Pretty harmonies. Not quite my type of music, a little too boring for me. But not bad. 5/10
15. Which Will- Nick Drake: I've been interested in hearing his work for a while. Great voice, good song, good feel to it. I'll definately look more into him. 8/10
16. Into the Night- Angelo Badalamenti: Very pretty, but again not much of what I'm into. It'd be good for quiet reflection. Good though. 6/10
17. We Rule the School- Belle and Sebastian: I told a friend of mine, Nick, about Belle and Sebastian. He's a very uptight fellow. He seemed to be interested in hearing them, however, this changed upon the viewing of the TigerMilk album cover. As you know, on the cover there is a nakedly lady with a tiger toy by her nipple. Tee hehe, tigermilk. Anyhow, he sees this and goes (exact conversation on AIM):
uptight (5:01:54 PM): whoa, one of their CD covers is just wrong
LitigationManuel (5:02:02 PM): which one?
uptight (5:02:09 PM): 'tigermilk'
LitigationManuel (5:02:30 PM): yeah
LitigationManuel (5:02:36 PM): kinda funny in a sense
LitigationManuel (5:02:39 PM): great album too
uptight (5:02:41 PM): no, just wrong
LitigationManuel (5:02:46 PM): yeah
anwa728 (5:02:47 PM): it's like porn
LitigationManuel (5:03:02 PM): except no nudity
LitigationManuel (5:03:11 PM): and it's "artistic"
LitigationManuel (5:03:20 PM): don't let that draw you away from the band
LitigationManuel (5:03:25 PM): I think you'd really like them
uptight (5:03:37 PM): it's not artistic
uptight (5:03:57 PM): nad yes, I'll let that draw me away from the band
uptight (5:07:26 PM): anyways, no more porn bands. got anything else?
LitigationManuel (5:07:33 PM): no
LitigationManuel (5:07:35 PM): nothing else
In all honesty, I did have more to show him. But nobody calls Belle and Sebastian a "porn band" and gets away with it. Seriously, I was pissed at him. I ridiculed him for it later. Ah, thus is what happens sometimes when you go to a Catholic High School: you get over religious people mistaking the taking of offense at things for innocence. Anyway, from all this, I am forced to love this song. Out of spite. Good song too, without the spite. 20/10
18. Ariel Ramirez- Richard Buckner: His voice isn't the best, but the song isn't bad. Still a little boring for me, but good. 6.5/10
19. Freebird- Cat Power: At first, I though "this can't be a freebird cover, it's half a minute!" Oh, how I was mistaken. I still love her voice, but the song isn't anything special, mostly because it is just the first 30 seconds of freebird. 5/10
20. Theme from Ghost World- David Kitay: His name makes him look like a "kitty", only pronounced like party pronounced partay, so ki-tay. Besides that, a soothing song. Pretty, flowing, quiet. Not bad. 6/10
In total, a pretty good mix. A bit too quiet for my liking, I like to have more fun on these. However, it was good, and showed me some decent to great bands. Mix as a whole: 6.5/10
1. Fuck This Shit- Belle and Sebastian: A nice calm opening track, good, but not too interesting. Pretty simple, but a good tranquil listen. 6/10
2. The Places We Go- The Softies: Very quiet, relaxing. I like the harmonies, they blend beautifully and sofly. A good track. 7/10
3. Spit on a Stranger- Pavement: I'm familiar with Pavement, but not this album or song. It's okay, feels a little generic for Pavement, although they mostly created that sound. Not bad, but I prefer other Pavement to this. 5/10
4. Crown of Love- The Arcade Fire: This is a pretty good track. From what I've heard of Arcade Fire, they seem like generic indie rock, but good. However, this track feels a little more individual yet retaining the goodness. Good, quiet again, and I like the effect added by the string ensemble. 7/10
5. You Were Right- Badly Drawn Boy: It's good, the break in the middle breaks it up quite nicely. The lyrics are very interesting, especially when he just starts listing musician's deaths he remembers. Very simple, but enthused and enjoyable. 8/10
6. Tears are in Your Eyes- Yo La Tengo: I'm vaguely familiar with this group, I only really know that I like them. This track ensures this opinion. I'll be sure to get more familiar with this group. You seem to have a good tranquil opening to this mix. Good so far. The chorus especially is good on this song. The music doesn't really change, but it still draws great attention and beauty at specific parts. 8.5/10
7. Those to Come- The Shins: Another quiet track. It's good. Not the best Shins song, but fitting for the mix so far. 6.5/10
8. Haiku Ten- Cat Power: Thank you! I love this woman's voice and have been looking to hear more Cat Power. A good track, short, but good. Huzzahs! 7/10
9. Into my Arms- Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds: It's okay. I'm not a big Nick Cave fan. Kinda boring, which would be okay if the lyrics were great, and drew the attention. However, they feel kinda sappy and lovely. Plus, the chorus feels a bit forced. 4/10
10. Mt. St. Helens- Mirah: Quiet, but enjoyable. Neat song topic, and good lyrics. I love when the, um... noise comes in. It's enjoyable. The gradual building of layers really makes this song. I may look into Mirah more. 8/10
11. I Hung My Head- Johnny Cash: Good choice, a good Johnny Cash song. The lyrics tell a great story, he is very emotional, all around good song. 8/10
12. Valentine Heart- Tanita Tikaram: A very nice voice. Very calm, a bit boring, slightly over-dramatic. Not bad though. 5/10
13. It's Rough- Smog: Not bad. A little depresssing, but a good song. I like the build up. Not the best candy cane eating music, which I was doing at the time. Seriously, why didn't you consider my candy cane needs when making this mix? Why do I even try with you
. Anyway, not bad. 7/1014. Green Bird- Yoko Kanno: Pretty harmonies. Not quite my type of music, a little too boring for me. But not bad. 5/10
15. Which Will- Nick Drake: I've been interested in hearing his work for a while. Great voice, good song, good feel to it. I'll definately look more into him. 8/10
16. Into the Night- Angelo Badalamenti: Very pretty, but again not much of what I'm into. It'd be good for quiet reflection. Good though. 6/10
17. We Rule the School- Belle and Sebastian: I told a friend of mine, Nick, about Belle and Sebastian. He's a very uptight fellow. He seemed to be interested in hearing them, however, this changed upon the viewing of the TigerMilk album cover. As you know, on the cover there is a nakedly lady with a tiger toy by her nipple. Tee hehe, tigermilk. Anyhow, he sees this and goes (exact conversation on AIM):
uptight (5:01:54 PM): whoa, one of their CD covers is just wrong
LitigationManuel (5:02:02 PM): which one?
uptight (5:02:09 PM): 'tigermilk'
LitigationManuel (5:02:30 PM): yeah
LitigationManuel (5:02:36 PM): kinda funny in a sense
LitigationManuel (5:02:39 PM): great album too
uptight (5:02:41 PM): no, just wrong
LitigationManuel (5:02:46 PM): yeah
anwa728 (5:02:47 PM): it's like porn
LitigationManuel (5:03:02 PM): except no nudity
LitigationManuel (5:03:11 PM): and it's "artistic"
LitigationManuel (5:03:20 PM): don't let that draw you away from the band
LitigationManuel (5:03:25 PM): I think you'd really like them
uptight (5:03:37 PM): it's not artistic
uptight (5:03:57 PM): nad yes, I'll let that draw me away from the band
uptight (5:07:26 PM): anyways, no more porn bands. got anything else?
LitigationManuel (5:07:33 PM): no
LitigationManuel (5:07:35 PM): nothing else
In all honesty, I did have more to show him. But nobody calls Belle and Sebastian a "porn band" and gets away with it. Seriously, I was pissed at him. I ridiculed him for it later. Ah, thus is what happens sometimes when you go to a Catholic High School: you get over religious people mistaking the taking of offense at things for innocence. Anyway, from all this, I am forced to love this song. Out of spite. Good song too, without the spite. 20/10
18. Ariel Ramirez- Richard Buckner: His voice isn't the best, but the song isn't bad. Still a little boring for me, but good. 6.5/10
19. Freebird- Cat Power: At first, I though "this can't be a freebird cover, it's half a minute!" Oh, how I was mistaken. I still love her voice, but the song isn't anything special, mostly because it is just the first 30 seconds of freebird. 5/10
20. Theme from Ghost World- David Kitay: His name makes him look like a "kitty", only pronounced like party pronounced partay, so ki-tay. Besides that, a soothing song. Pretty, flowing, quiet. Not bad. 6/10
In total, a pretty good mix. A bit too quiet for my liking, I like to have more fun on these. However, it was good, and showed me some decent to great bands. Mix as a whole: 6.5/10
Christoff Yurievich
Member
I feel like I let my team down. I had no special covers and I forgot to put the damn tracklisting in with the cd's. It's my first mix, sorry.
I'm listening to the ones I have right now, have my review up maybe tomorrow, probably Sunday though.
8bit - gonna listen to your mix as well. got it downloaded, just need to burn it to cd for easy(er) listening.
It's my first mix, sorry.I'm listening to the ones I have right now, have my review up maybe tomorrow, probably Sunday though.
8bit - gonna listen to your mix as well. got it downloaded, just need to burn it to cd for easy(er) listening.
bobbyconover
Member
Jason said:
AWESOME choice, and a longtime mix-tape favorite of mine as well. You kick ass!
Litigation Manuel
Member
By the way, to the people in my group: my mix is up on the gaf account. Download, review. Still waiting for dormer and Jack Frost to be on there. And I'll be reviewing FnordChan's and Bishop's mixes within the next few days.
Finally got enough time to sit with the mixes, but I'm having trouble downloading them... after about 40% or so, it's as if the connection dies... download speed starts going down gradually, and eventually the computer freezes for a bit, and I get a Windows error.
It's not my FTP client, as I've tried a few of them. Same thing... the computer I'm currently stuck with is a POS, though.
Anyway, I'm trying to sort this out, but I don't know how, if or when.
Many apologies to everyone in my mix group for the delays.
It's not my FTP client, as I've tried a few of them. Same thing... the computer I'm currently stuck with is a POS, though.
Anyway, I'm trying to sort this out, but I don't know how, if or when.
Many apologies to everyone in my mix group for the delays.
Ill Saint said:Finally got enough time to sit with the mixes, but I'm having trouble downloading them... after about 40% or so, it's as if the connection dies... download speed starts going down gradually, and eventually the computer freezes for a bit, and I get a Windows error.
It's not my FTP client, as I've tried a few of them. Same thing... the computer I'm currently stuck with is a POS, though.
Anyway, I'm trying to sort this out, but I don't know how, if or when.
Many apologies to everyone in my mix group for the delays.
You have AIM? I can just send it to you that way or host it elsewhere.
JackFrost2012
Banned
I feel terrible for not making an original mix for this exchange, but I had to cover PSP's Japanese launch for 1UP and OPM this week and I've never slept so little since I was a college student during finals week. I leave the country in < 36 hours, so recycling a mix I made last month is the only option. I photoshopped you guys a cover, at least.
http://www.yukihime.com/board/offbeat-cover.jpg
Offbeat
1. The Killers - All These Things That Ive Done
2. Cake - Shadow Stabbing
3. David Bowie - Rebel Rebel (acoustic)
4. James - Sometimes (Lester Piggot)
5. My Favorite - Burning Hearts
6. Cocco - 白い狂気 (White Madness)
7. RJD2 - Through the Walls
8. Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Maps
9. TV on the Radio - New Health Rock
10. Camper Van Beethoven - Sweethearts
11. The Arcade Fire - Rebellion (Lies)
12. 天野月子 - クレマチス (Amano Tsukiko - Clematis)
Bonus Track 1. Pharrell Williams featuring Jay-Z vs. U2 - Frontin Without You
Bonus Track 2. The Musical Magicians - Convertibles and Headbands
Download the MP3s
To clarify: this is a 12 song mix CD with 2 bonus tracks, not a 14 track mix CD. Track 12 is the "last" track.
The unifying themes of the mix are syncopation, swaying, and strange subject matter. I really like this mix, so I don't feel too bad about reusing it. Happy listening!
http://www.yukihime.com/board/offbeat-cover.jpg
Offbeat
1. The Killers - All These Things That Ive Done
2. Cake - Shadow Stabbing
3. David Bowie - Rebel Rebel (acoustic)
4. James - Sometimes (Lester Piggot)
5. My Favorite - Burning Hearts
6. Cocco - 白い狂気 (White Madness)
7. RJD2 - Through the Walls
8. Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Maps
9. TV on the Radio - New Health Rock
10. Camper Van Beethoven - Sweethearts
11. The Arcade Fire - Rebellion (Lies)
12. 天野月子 - クレマチス (Amano Tsukiko - Clematis)
Bonus Track 1. Pharrell Williams featuring Jay-Z vs. U2 - Frontin Without You
Bonus Track 2. The Musical Magicians - Convertibles and Headbands
Download the MP3s
To clarify: this is a 12 song mix CD with 2 bonus tracks, not a 14 track mix CD. Track 12 is the "last" track.
The unifying themes of the mix are syncopation, swaying, and strange subject matter. I really like this mix, so I don't feel too bad about reusing it. Happy listening!
This is a real mess of a "review", but I don't have the consecutive hours needed to work on it more. Hopefully it's not too all over the place. Sp0rsk mix review will be in a week or so.
AstroLad's Mix
Initial comments
As someone who for the most part (with a few exceptions) stopped listening to rock-oriented / indie / alternative/ etc. music from '96 onwards, this mix was difficult for me to review. I have tried to keep my comments somewhat substantial and objective, and most of all, honest. Although I've weighed in with my personal thoughts (Sorry B&S, DBD), I'd like to think I did, at least to some extent, manage to come at this mix impartially.
I've picked the songs apart as follows, but comments on the mix as a whole, from an objective stand point are at the bottom in the closing comments bit.
---
Belle and Sebastian - Fuck This Shit.
They are no doubt talented songwriters, who can craft hugely infectious, instantly recognisable music, and can play their instruments well, but with that said, I really dislike Belle and Sebastian. A lot. They make the kind of music that on prolonged listens would turn me suicidal, so sitting through this track was excrutiating. Painful, truly painful... I realise they've got the whole irony thing going, but I cannot for the life of me get past all that sugary tootling.
The Softies - Places We Go
While the tune is somewhat obvious, and it's easy to tell where it will go, it's disarmingly sweet and the girls seem to have a way of hitting a note or plucking a string that just keeps me around, but too often I get the feeling I've heard this song many times, from many different bands. Fairly mediocre.
Pavement - Spit On A Stranger
Pop done right, and the way only Pavement can. I feel like I'm back in High School listening to this. Great musicianship, catchy and memorable chorus and lovely production that lets the band and their instruments breathe. Perfectly structured -- there's no point where the track lulls or loses its focus and momentum. Although I was never fan, when Pavement hit top form, it's all too easy to get sucked into their music. Quality.
The Arcade Fire - Crown of Love
Awful lot of talk about this band, lots of radio play, hype etc. I don't hear it. None of their tunes do anything to make me believe they're anything special. This song is an aural cliche, though slickly produced and well played -- Clearly they know their instruments and know how to compose a tight song. A decent tune nontheless, but I'd just like to hear them do something... different, rather than join the throng of "disco rock with wailing bloke" bands.
Badly Drawn Boy - You Were Right
I can't listen to this song without feeling nauseous. This is approaching Belle and Sebastian territory. Overly pretentious, dodgy string sections, ungodly whistling bit, and a guy who can't sing, pretending he can. If I wear my objectivity hat, I'd say it's a finely crafted, catchy pop tune worthy of anyones time, if they are fans of the genre. BDB is surely at the forefront of this style.
Yo La Tengo - Tears Are In Your Eyes
The singers vocals carry the track well through what is a very standard backing track for this type of song. It's nice, but there's not much more I can say about it. YLT have much brighter moments in their catalogue.
The Shins - Those To Come
With Nick Drake in the playlist, this track was always gonna be fighting a losing battle. The guitar work is nice and hypnotic, Hymn like... I just wish the guys lyrics and vocal work were above mediocre, as there is some potential there.
Cat Power - Haiku Ten
Chan's great. Love her voice, it carries such weight and emotion. One of the few female pop vocalists I can say this about. A welcome change of pace, this tune, a breath of fresh air. Great choice.
Nick Cave - Into My Arms
I can't stand the Birthday Party, but his work with the Bad Seeds, though still not my kinda thing, is always worth a listen. He is a true great when it comes to songwriting, emotion, passion, he's got it, and it shows. This track is certainly not amongst his best, but to his credit, it shows that even when he's not at his peak he can write a song that leaves most of his ilk in their wake.
Mirah - Mount St. Helens
A technically competent, but somehow beautiful voice, run-of-the-mill songwriting and purely functional musicianship. It's the simplicity of this song that makes it so charming. A fairly middling opening passage eventually turns into something quite special, a buried lo-fi stomp, guitar rhythm and well placed samples that really carry this beautifully for only a brief minute or so until she reigns the track back in... I wish she had carried this momentum for a while longer, and on to some sort of climax, as I'm not a big fan of the ponderous style she turns to at the end. Still, a gret tune with a lovely build up and absolutely gorgeous middle passage that I'll probably keep on repeat for a good while yet.
Johnny Cash - I Hung My Head
Johnny Cash is probably one of the most honest songwriters I've heard, and the soul his songs carry is undeniable. But as much as I respect the man, as a whole, his songs just don't move me. Yet, his ability to tell such a vivid story in his songs is remarkable, and had me listening with huge interest, and it's within this context that I am most able to appreciate the man and his work. Great stuff.
Tanita Tikaram - Valentine Heart
I remember hearing a couple of her songs in the 80s... this one was a tough listen, mostly because I think it needs to be heard within the context of her album. On its own or amongst other tracks, such as in this compilation, it seems somewhat dated and obvious in a compositional sense. But it's a lovely piece of songwriting, and her voice carries it along very nicely.
Smog - It's Rough
A nice tune this one. He keeps it simple but effective, letting the dissonant, somewhat pained guitar work carry the tune right through to the end, like a musical mirror of what he is singing and describing in his lyrics -- a drunken semi-depraved tale of self-depreciation and self-indulgence. Or something. In any case, it's very effective. I'll be putting this one on when I'm feeling angry at the world, in a petty sort of way. Thumbs up.
Yoko Kanno - Green Bird
I can't imagine this being anything other than an intermission piece to be heard in the context of the mix as a whole (or the soundtrack / compilation it originally came from). I wouldn't feel good writing about it on its own merrits.
Nick Drake - Which Will
Now this is songwriting... just beautiful. There's such sadness in Drake's work -- in his playing, in his voice, in his lyrics... it's hard not to get lost in it. When I listen to him, I'm reminded of just how powerful the music of one person and their guitar can be. Any muppet can grab a guitar, pluck some strings and warble over it, but to do it with such ease, humility, soul, and mastery is unfortunately a rarity. Banhart? not convinced.
Angelo Badalamenti - Into The Night
A soundtrack piece. Haunting and hypnotic (unsuprisingly considering it's from the Twin Peaks score) The vocals seem to almost blend with the music at times, like they're pushing out through the ambience. The overly melodramatic instrumental splooge 3:30 was a bit abrupt and questionable on first listen, but on repeated plays it seems to work nicely. A real slowburner that grows in appreciation with further listens.
Belle and Sebastian - We Rule The School
/Spasms.
Richard Buckner - Ariel Ramirez
I was initially gonna dismiss this song as being standard fare Country twanging, much like the type I lamented in the Nick Drake passage, but I gave it a few more listens and realised that would not be fair. This is a good song -- the guy seems to have conviction in his voice and his playing. I particularly like the way his playing at times works as a "plate" for his voice, rather than a backing. He keeps it short, which also works in his favour. He tells the story and leaves it at that -- no pointless lingering or unecessary arrangements.
Cat Power - Free Bird
Short'n sweet.
David Kitay - Theme From 'Ghost World'
An interesting way to close out the mix, but an effective one that is not at all jarring or out of place, even though it's a piano piece from a soundtrack. Nice choice.
---
Closing comments
This is an excellent mix. The flow is near perfect, and with a few songs culled to keep the length down and stop redundancy, this makes for a great listen when you're in the mood for some slower paced, mostly acoustic music. Overall, very enjoyable and very much recommended to those with a taste for this kind of sound.
AstroLad's Mix
Initial comments
As someone who for the most part (with a few exceptions) stopped listening to rock-oriented / indie / alternative/ etc. music from '96 onwards, this mix was difficult for me to review. I have tried to keep my comments somewhat substantial and objective, and most of all, honest. Although I've weighed in with my personal thoughts (Sorry B&S, DBD), I'd like to think I did, at least to some extent, manage to come at this mix impartially.
I've picked the songs apart as follows, but comments on the mix as a whole, from an objective stand point are at the bottom in the closing comments bit.
---
Belle and Sebastian - Fuck This Shit.
They are no doubt talented songwriters, who can craft hugely infectious, instantly recognisable music, and can play their instruments well, but with that said, I really dislike Belle and Sebastian. A lot. They make the kind of music that on prolonged listens would turn me suicidal, so sitting through this track was excrutiating. Painful, truly painful... I realise they've got the whole irony thing going, but I cannot for the life of me get past all that sugary tootling.
The Softies - Places We Go
While the tune is somewhat obvious, and it's easy to tell where it will go, it's disarmingly sweet and the girls seem to have a way of hitting a note or plucking a string that just keeps me around, but too often I get the feeling I've heard this song many times, from many different bands. Fairly mediocre.
Pavement - Spit On A Stranger
Pop done right, and the way only Pavement can. I feel like I'm back in High School listening to this. Great musicianship, catchy and memorable chorus and lovely production that lets the band and their instruments breathe. Perfectly structured -- there's no point where the track lulls or loses its focus and momentum. Although I was never fan, when Pavement hit top form, it's all too easy to get sucked into their music. Quality.
The Arcade Fire - Crown of Love
Awful lot of talk about this band, lots of radio play, hype etc. I don't hear it. None of their tunes do anything to make me believe they're anything special. This song is an aural cliche, though slickly produced and well played -- Clearly they know their instruments and know how to compose a tight song. A decent tune nontheless, but I'd just like to hear them do something... different, rather than join the throng of "disco rock with wailing bloke" bands.
Badly Drawn Boy - You Were Right
I can't listen to this song without feeling nauseous. This is approaching Belle and Sebastian territory. Overly pretentious, dodgy string sections, ungodly whistling bit, and a guy who can't sing, pretending he can. If I wear my objectivity hat, I'd say it's a finely crafted, catchy pop tune worthy of anyones time, if they are fans of the genre. BDB is surely at the forefront of this style.
Yo La Tengo - Tears Are In Your Eyes
The singers vocals carry the track well through what is a very standard backing track for this type of song. It's nice, but there's not much more I can say about it. YLT have much brighter moments in their catalogue.
The Shins - Those To Come
With Nick Drake in the playlist, this track was always gonna be fighting a losing battle. The guitar work is nice and hypnotic, Hymn like... I just wish the guys lyrics and vocal work were above mediocre, as there is some potential there.
Cat Power - Haiku Ten
Chan's great. Love her voice, it carries such weight and emotion. One of the few female pop vocalists I can say this about. A welcome change of pace, this tune, a breath of fresh air. Great choice.
Nick Cave - Into My Arms
I can't stand the Birthday Party, but his work with the Bad Seeds, though still not my kinda thing, is always worth a listen. He is a true great when it comes to songwriting, emotion, passion, he's got it, and it shows. This track is certainly not amongst his best, but to his credit, it shows that even when he's not at his peak he can write a song that leaves most of his ilk in their wake.
Mirah - Mount St. Helens
A technically competent, but somehow beautiful voice, run-of-the-mill songwriting and purely functional musicianship. It's the simplicity of this song that makes it so charming. A fairly middling opening passage eventually turns into something quite special, a buried lo-fi stomp, guitar rhythm and well placed samples that really carry this beautifully for only a brief minute or so until she reigns the track back in... I wish she had carried this momentum for a while longer, and on to some sort of climax, as I'm not a big fan of the ponderous style she turns to at the end. Still, a gret tune with a lovely build up and absolutely gorgeous middle passage that I'll probably keep on repeat for a good while yet.
Johnny Cash - I Hung My Head
Johnny Cash is probably one of the most honest songwriters I've heard, and the soul his songs carry is undeniable. But as much as I respect the man, as a whole, his songs just don't move me. Yet, his ability to tell such a vivid story in his songs is remarkable, and had me listening with huge interest, and it's within this context that I am most able to appreciate the man and his work. Great stuff.
Tanita Tikaram - Valentine Heart
I remember hearing a couple of her songs in the 80s... this one was a tough listen, mostly because I think it needs to be heard within the context of her album. On its own or amongst other tracks, such as in this compilation, it seems somewhat dated and obvious in a compositional sense. But it's a lovely piece of songwriting, and her voice carries it along very nicely.
Smog - It's Rough
A nice tune this one. He keeps it simple but effective, letting the dissonant, somewhat pained guitar work carry the tune right through to the end, like a musical mirror of what he is singing and describing in his lyrics -- a drunken semi-depraved tale of self-depreciation and self-indulgence. Or something. In any case, it's very effective. I'll be putting this one on when I'm feeling angry at the world, in a petty sort of way. Thumbs up.
Yoko Kanno - Green Bird
I can't imagine this being anything other than an intermission piece to be heard in the context of the mix as a whole (or the soundtrack / compilation it originally came from). I wouldn't feel good writing about it on its own merrits.
Nick Drake - Which Will
Now this is songwriting... just beautiful. There's such sadness in Drake's work -- in his playing, in his voice, in his lyrics... it's hard not to get lost in it. When I listen to him, I'm reminded of just how powerful the music of one person and their guitar can be. Any muppet can grab a guitar, pluck some strings and warble over it, but to do it with such ease, humility, soul, and mastery is unfortunately a rarity. Banhart? not convinced.
Angelo Badalamenti - Into The Night
A soundtrack piece. Haunting and hypnotic (unsuprisingly considering it's from the Twin Peaks score) The vocals seem to almost blend with the music at times, like they're pushing out through the ambience. The overly melodramatic instrumental splooge 3:30 was a bit abrupt and questionable on first listen, but on repeated plays it seems to work nicely. A real slowburner that grows in appreciation with further listens.
Belle and Sebastian - We Rule The School
/Spasms.
Richard Buckner - Ariel Ramirez
I was initially gonna dismiss this song as being standard fare Country twanging, much like the type I lamented in the Nick Drake passage, but I gave it a few more listens and realised that would not be fair. This is a good song -- the guy seems to have conviction in his voice and his playing. I particularly like the way his playing at times works as a "plate" for his voice, rather than a backing. He keeps it short, which also works in his favour. He tells the story and leaves it at that -- no pointless lingering or unecessary arrangements.
Cat Power - Free Bird
Short'n sweet.
David Kitay - Theme From 'Ghost World'
An interesting way to close out the mix, but an effective one that is not at all jarring or out of place, even though it's a piano piece from a soundtrack. Nice choice.
---
Closing comments
This is an excellent mix. The flow is near perfect, and with a few songs culled to keep the length down and stop redundancy, this makes for a great listen when you're in the mood for some slower paced, mostly acoustic music. Overall, very enjoyable and very much recommended to those with a taste for this kind of sound.
Christoff Yurievich
Member
HOTARUBI
Hounds of Love - Futureheads - Love the way the song starts. the voice sounds familiar, not sure why. Def. a song that would make me get more of their stuff.
Power Is One - The Go! Team - sounds almost like something you'd hear at a pep rally or something, but I like it.
Wonderful People - Q and Not U - sounds vaguely 80ish, like a Kool and the Gang song, mixed with maybe Jamiroquai.
Plenty For All - Hot Snakes - like the tune, especially the keyboard-ish beginning.
The Futile - Say Anything - sounds like a drinking song, something you'd sing with a pint held high.
Romantic Rights - Death from Above 1979 - almost like an early 90's song with the intro/riff. vaguely pavement-ish.
Hoist That Rag - Tom Waits - ah! someone I've heard of! awesome stuff, I really need to find more of his music. the production is really what seals it for me as I love the minimalist approach he took.
Gonna Move - Paul Pena - nice bluesy song. Not what I normally listen to but still good.
Hummingbird (Soma Version) - Wilco - kind of a quiet song. Haven't heard much by them but this doesn't seem indicative of what they do from what I've heard in the past. Good though.
Hit the Switch - Bright Eyes - country/punk/emo/christmas vibe from this song.
Science of Your Mind - The Comas - like the guitar part, very good. a little spacey but in a good way.
First Instance Last Report - Earlimart - kinda pixies-ish musically, not bad. overall a decent song.
Wait in a Line - Now It's Overhead - very interesting. it sounds like the drummer is trying to imitate a drum machine with an almost break-beat there. nice song, decent singing.
Insomniac Olympics - Blockhead - probably one of my favorite songs on the mix. The opening I like a lot, what with the brass and all and then the piano, great song.
Wipe That Sound - Mouse On Mars - really like this song a lot as well. great, my wife just came in while I was listening to it and said it sounds like that Ini Kamoze(sp?) song "the hotstepper". crap on her. I still like it.
Golden Touch - Razorlight - not bad, though it sounds vaguely familiar. Maybe I've heard it before.
Debra - Beck - I like some of his stuff but this song is one of the reasons I don't get more of it - not keen on the falsetto thing.
There Was A Time - James Brown - what's not to like about James Brown?
Yeah (Crass Version) vs. Bean Connection - LCD Soundsystem - good, but not really my cup of tea.
YOSHIFUMI ROCK
note: to label it "rock" and have so many mellow songs is a tad bit odd.
Faded From The Winter - Iron And Wine - It's ok, kinda 60ish.
Goodbye West Coast - Matt Sharp - a vague Smashing Pumpkin-bside feel from this song.
Homesick - Kings of Convenience - sure this isn't the same band from track one?
Winter Light (Remix) - John Vanderslice - his voice is a little grating, especially with the way he's singing - way too slow.
Monkey Gone To Heaven - The Pixies - great song, great band.
Sleepy California - Her Space Holiday - now we're talking, vaguely pixie/Where Is My Mind-ish.
How To Be Dead - Snow Patrol - not bad, decent tune.
Krush - Stars - dunno why it sounds familar, but it does. pretty good song.
Cinnamon - The Long Winters - no, just no. singing doesn't fit the pace of the song at all.
So You Really Want Me - Wheat - Not really into that faux-english sound, but I can see how someone could like it. It's a decent song, just not what I usually listen to.
Our Retired Explorer - The Weakerthans - not bad, maybe a little too tony hawk soundtrack-ish though.
Pasttimes and Lifestyles - Dogs Die In Hot Cars - First, great name for a band. not a bad song either.
Maine Island Lovers - Okkervil River - too slow again. I don't think I have a song in my entire collection this slow.
Definitive Breaks - Phoenix - seriously, sounds like something that would be in a porno. Debbie Does Denmark or something.
YOSHIFUMI TECHNO
Seventeen Years - Ratatat - great song to start with, my kind of techno. I'd listen to this while driving at a high volume.
Abstract Pictures - Ellen Allien - Good song, maybe a little too generic techno but still good.
bcdtmx - Autechre - I like this song, sounds great while driving too.
Cherry Bomb - Manitoba - Aw, I was hoping it was a techno remake of the John Mellancamp song...imagine my letdown. not bad though.
Cyborg - m83 - certainly too generic with the beeps and boops, then it tries to be Rammstein-lite near the middle. odd but ok.
Big Time Sensuality (Plaid Remix) - Bjork - I like the original better, the remix is too spacey.
Every Party (Prefuse 73 Remix) - Erlend Oye - Very interesting, I think this is one of the best songs off this mix. sounds like a mix of live instruments along with machines though I could be wrong.
High Come Down (Honey's and Skrilla Remix) - Junior Boys - ah, it's ok. Again a little too generic. I'm sure it's a good club song though.
Beequeen - Styrofoam - Radiohead circa Kid A/Amnesiac with a little more production. not bad, just keep thinking of Radihead.
Only Got One - Frou Frou - such an interesting voice, i've only heard one other song by him (almost put it on my mix too) so this is pretty good. gets a little repetitive near the end though, but I think I can get over that. Is the rest of his stuff this good? (the other song I've heard is on the Garden State Soundtrack)
and I haven't gotten Quadrophenic's mix yet, probably going to get it tomorrow or something.
Sorry 8bit. I wasn't able to get the mix onto my computer yet (d/led it at school) so I haven't had a chance to listen to it. I am very intrigued though as you have a song with Steven Segal singing. I need to hear this.
Hounds of Love - Futureheads - Love the way the song starts. the voice sounds familiar, not sure why. Def. a song that would make me get more of their stuff.
Power Is One - The Go! Team - sounds almost like something you'd hear at a pep rally or something, but I like it.
Wonderful People - Q and Not U - sounds vaguely 80ish, like a Kool and the Gang song, mixed with maybe Jamiroquai.
Plenty For All - Hot Snakes - like the tune, especially the keyboard-ish beginning.
The Futile - Say Anything - sounds like a drinking song, something you'd sing with a pint held high.
Romantic Rights - Death from Above 1979 - almost like an early 90's song with the intro/riff. vaguely pavement-ish.
Hoist That Rag - Tom Waits - ah! someone I've heard of!
awesome stuff, I really need to find more of his music. the production is really what seals it for me as I love the minimalist approach he took.Gonna Move - Paul Pena - nice bluesy song. Not what I normally listen to but still good.
Hummingbird (Soma Version) - Wilco - kind of a quiet song. Haven't heard much by them but this doesn't seem indicative of what they do from what I've heard in the past. Good though.
Hit the Switch - Bright Eyes - country/punk/emo/christmas vibe from this song.
Science of Your Mind - The Comas - like the guitar part, very good. a little spacey but in a good way.
First Instance Last Report - Earlimart - kinda pixies-ish musically, not bad. overall a decent song.
Wait in a Line - Now It's Overhead - very interesting. it sounds like the drummer is trying to imitate a drum machine with an almost break-beat there. nice song, decent singing.
Insomniac Olympics - Blockhead - probably one of my favorite songs on the mix. The opening I like a lot, what with the brass and all and then the piano, great song.
Wipe That Sound - Mouse On Mars - really like this song a lot as well. great, my wife just came in while I was listening to it and said it sounds like that Ini Kamoze(sp?) song "the hotstepper". crap on her. I still like it.
Golden Touch - Razorlight - not bad, though it sounds vaguely familiar. Maybe I've heard it before.
Debra - Beck - I like some of his stuff but this song is one of the reasons I don't get more of it - not keen on the falsetto thing.
There Was A Time - James Brown - what's not to like about James Brown?
Yeah (Crass Version) vs. Bean Connection - LCD Soundsystem - good, but not really my cup of tea.
YOSHIFUMI ROCK
note: to label it "rock" and have so many mellow songs is a tad bit odd.
Faded From The Winter - Iron And Wine - It's ok, kinda 60ish.
Goodbye West Coast - Matt Sharp - a vague Smashing Pumpkin-bside feel from this song.
Homesick - Kings of Convenience - sure this isn't the same band from track one?
Winter Light (Remix) - John Vanderslice - his voice is a little grating, especially with the way he's singing - way too slow.
Monkey Gone To Heaven - The Pixies - great song, great band.
Sleepy California - Her Space Holiday - now we're talking, vaguely pixie/Where Is My Mind-ish.
How To Be Dead - Snow Patrol - not bad, decent tune.
Krush - Stars - dunno why it sounds familar, but it does. pretty good song.
Cinnamon - The Long Winters - no, just no. singing doesn't fit the pace of the song at all.
So You Really Want Me - Wheat - Not really into that faux-english sound, but I can see how someone could like it. It's a decent song, just not what I usually listen to.
Our Retired Explorer - The Weakerthans - not bad, maybe a little too tony hawk soundtrack-ish though.
Pasttimes and Lifestyles - Dogs Die In Hot Cars - First, great name for a band. not a bad song either.
Maine Island Lovers - Okkervil River - too slow again. I don't think I have a song in my entire collection this slow.
Definitive Breaks - Phoenix - seriously, sounds like something that would be in a porno. Debbie Does Denmark or something.
YOSHIFUMI TECHNO
Seventeen Years - Ratatat - great song to start with, my kind of techno. I'd listen to this while driving at a high volume.
Abstract Pictures - Ellen Allien - Good song, maybe a little too generic techno but still good.
bcdtmx - Autechre - I like this song, sounds great while driving too.
Cherry Bomb - Manitoba - Aw, I was hoping it was a techno remake of the John Mellancamp song...imagine my letdown. not bad though.
Cyborg - m83 - certainly too generic with the beeps and boops, then it tries to be Rammstein-lite near the middle. odd but ok.
Big Time Sensuality (Plaid Remix) - Bjork - I like the original better, the remix is too spacey.
Every Party (Prefuse 73 Remix) - Erlend Oye - Very interesting, I think this is one of the best songs off this mix. sounds like a mix of live instruments along with machines though I could be wrong.
High Come Down (Honey's and Skrilla Remix) - Junior Boys - ah, it's ok. Again a little too generic. I'm sure it's a good club song though.
Beequeen - Styrofoam - Radiohead circa Kid A/Amnesiac with a little more production. not bad, just keep thinking of Radihead.
Only Got One - Frou Frou - such an interesting voice, i've only heard one other song by him (almost put it on my mix too) so this is pretty good. gets a little repetitive near the end though, but I think I can get over that. Is the rest of his stuff this good? (the other song I've heard is on the Garden State Soundtrack)
and I haven't gotten Quadrophenic's mix yet, probably going to get it tomorrow or something.
Sorry 8bit. I wasn't able to get the mix onto my computer yet (d/led it at school) so I haven't had a chance to listen to it. I am very intrigued though as you have a song with Steven Segal singing. I need to hear this.
Broken and disjointed thoughts coming right up (I suck at reviewing things).
enjoy bell woods
Beck - Paper Tiger The strings add a nice dimension to the track which go great with Becks mellow voice. Love the guitar too. Great Opener.
Adem - These Are Your Friends Im a sucker for the acoustic guitar. I adore the melody in this track and I find myself singing along at the end (love the buildup). Good 1-2 punch since Becks and Adems voices are similar.
Papa M - Sorrow Reigns Nice short track to follow up the previous one (clocked in at 6:35). Lyrics make me cringe though.
Avey Tare and Panda Bear - April and the Phantom Thought my speakers were going to explode the first time I heard this song. Love it when he spazzes out.
The Feelies - The Boy With the Perpetual Nervousness Compliments the last track very well (drums/guitars specifically). Could have done with a radio edit though as its a tad long. Guitar work is the highlight of the track.
Gorky's Zygotic Mynci - Where Does Yer Go Now? - Poodle Rockin this is not. Didnt know they had this in their repertoire. Very pleasant surprise.
Ennio Morricone - Addio Messico Instrumental transition. I have no negative feelings towards this track.
Ffa Coffi Pawb - Ofn: Cwn Probably my favourite track next to Adems. I try my hardest to sing along but thats next to impossible. Love the bass.
Cibo Matto - Spoon (Super Relax) One of the good tracks found on Super Relax (the other being the acoustic Sugar Water). One of my favourite CM songs thanks to the catchy chorus.
Juana Molina - El Perro Dreamy female vox you read the book on how to win Jason over. The beats, barking dogs(?) and vocals work nicely together. Love it.
Damon Albarn - A Rappy Song I think Im the only one who owns this particular record. This is pretty much the only good song on it so good choice!
The High Llamas - Checking In, Checking Out This is the only song I dont like on the mix. Sounds too much like The Eagles.
Jon Brion - Ruin My Day Jon Brion to the rescue. Has he ever written a bad song? *thumbs up*
Grandaddy - Wretched Songs could have done without the dirty guitars but still a great song. I should listen to more Grandaddy.
Commie 64 - Heart of a Robot Very synthy. Catchy and leads into the next track nicely.
Gorky's Zygotic Mynci - If Fingers Were Xylophones This song has it all hand clapping, tempo changes, la la las a ridiculous amount of things going on in this song. Me like.
Blur - Theme From an Imaginary Film Not a big fan of their early stuff. This one isnt half bad though. Cant think of anything else to say.
Super Furry Animals Sanitizzzed A short, fun romp. Like the previous Gorkys song, a ton of stuff happening in this track Especially liked the main guitar riff and when they sing sanitizzzzzzed.
Great mix. It flowed nicely from track to track and you made sure to follow a long track with a short one. Highly recommended.
Smidget's mix needs more listens so expect a review in a day or so.
enjoy bell woods
Beck - Paper Tiger The strings add a nice dimension to the track which go great with Becks mellow voice. Love the guitar too. Great Opener.
Adem - These Are Your Friends Im a sucker for the acoustic guitar. I adore the melody in this track and I find myself singing along at the end (love the buildup). Good 1-2 punch since Becks and Adems voices are similar.
Papa M - Sorrow Reigns Nice short track to follow up the previous one (clocked in at 6:35). Lyrics make me cringe though.
Avey Tare and Panda Bear - April and the Phantom Thought my speakers were going to explode the first time I heard this song. Love it when he spazzes out.
The Feelies - The Boy With the Perpetual Nervousness Compliments the last track very well (drums/guitars specifically). Could have done with a radio edit though as its a tad long. Guitar work is the highlight of the track.
Gorky's Zygotic Mynci - Where Does Yer Go Now? - Poodle Rockin this is not. Didnt know they had this in their repertoire. Very pleasant surprise.
Ennio Morricone - Addio Messico Instrumental transition. I have no negative feelings towards this track.
Ffa Coffi Pawb - Ofn: Cwn Probably my favourite track next to Adems. I try my hardest to sing along but thats next to impossible. Love the bass.
Cibo Matto - Spoon (Super Relax) One of the good tracks found on Super Relax (the other being the acoustic Sugar Water). One of my favourite CM songs thanks to the catchy chorus.
Juana Molina - El Perro Dreamy female vox you read the book on how to win Jason over. The beats, barking dogs(?) and vocals work nicely together. Love it.
Damon Albarn - A Rappy Song I think Im the only one who owns this particular record. This is pretty much the only good song on it so good choice!
The High Llamas - Checking In, Checking Out This is the only song I dont like on the mix. Sounds too much like The Eagles.
Jon Brion - Ruin My Day Jon Brion to the rescue. Has he ever written a bad song? *thumbs up*
Grandaddy - Wretched Songs could have done without the dirty guitars but still a great song. I should listen to more Grandaddy.
Commie 64 - Heart of a Robot Very synthy. Catchy and leads into the next track nicely.
Gorky's Zygotic Mynci - If Fingers Were Xylophones This song has it all hand clapping, tempo changes, la la las a ridiculous amount of things going on in this song. Me like.
Blur - Theme From an Imaginary Film Not a big fan of their early stuff. This one isnt half bad though. Cant think of anything else to say.
Super Furry Animals Sanitizzzed A short, fun romp. Like the previous Gorkys song, a ton of stuff happening in this track Especially liked the main guitar riff and when they sing sanitizzzzzzed.
Great mix. It flowed nicely from track to track and you made sure to follow a long track with a short one. Highly recommended.
Smidget's mix needs more listens so expect a review in a day or so.
enjoy bell woods
Banned
Thanks a lot -- very heartening. I'm working on everyone's.Jason said:Broken and disjointed thoughts coming right up (I suck at reviewing things).
enjoy bell woods
Beck - Paper Tiger The strings add a nice dimension to the track which go great with Becks mellow voice. Love the guitar too. Great Opener.
Adem - These Are Your Friends Im a sucker for the acoustic guitar. I adore the melody in this track and I find myself singing along at the end (love the buildup). Good 1-2 punch since Becks and Adems voices are similar.
Papa M - Sorrow Reigns Nice short track to follow up the previous one (clocked in at 6:35). Lyrics make me cringe though.
Avey Tare and Panda Bear - April and the Phantom Thought my speakers were going to explode the first time I heard this song. Love it when he spazzes out.
The Feelies - The Boy With the Perpetual Nervousness Compliments the last track very well (drums/guitars specifically). Could have done with a radio edit though as its a tad long. Guitar work is the highlight of the track.
Gorky's Zygotic Mynci - Where Does Yer Go Now? - Poodle Rockin this is not. Didnt know they had this in their repertoire. Very pleasant surprise.
Ennio Morricone - Addio Messico Instrumental transition. I have no negative feelings towards this track.
Ffa Coffi Pawb - Ofn: Cwn Probably my favourite track next to Adems. I try my hardest to sing along but thats next to impossible. Love the bass.
Cibo Matto - Spoon (Super Relax) One of the good tracks found on Super Relax (the other being the acoustic Sugar Water). One of my favourite CM songs thanks to the catchy chorus.
Juana Molina - El Perro Dreamy female vox you read the book on how to win Jason over. The beats, barking dogs(?) and vocals work nicely together. Love it.
Damon Albarn - A Rappy Song I think Im the only one who owns this particular record. This is pretty much the only good song on it so good choice!
The High Llamas - Checking In, Checking Out This is the only song I dont like on the mix. Sounds too much like The Eagles.
Jon Brion - Ruin My Day Jon Brion to the rescue. Has he ever written a bad song? *thumbs up*
Grandaddy - Wretched Songs could have done without the dirty guitars but still a great song. I should listen to more Grandaddy.
Commie 64 - Heart of a Robot Very synthy. Catchy and leads into the next track nicely.
Gorky's Zygotic Mynci - If Fingers Were Xylophones This song has it all hand clapping, tempo changes, la la las a ridiculous amount of things going on in this song. Me like.
Blur - Theme From an Imaginary Film Not a big fan of their early stuff. This one isnt half bad though. Cant think of anything else to say.
Super Furry Animals Sanitizzzed A short, fun romp. Like the previous Gorkys song, a ton of stuff happening in this track Especially liked the main guitar riff and when they sing sanitizzzzzzed.
Great mix. It flowed nicely from track to track and you made sure to follow a long track with a short one. Highly recommended.
Smidget's mix needs more listens so expect a review in a day or so.
Agent Dormer
Dirty Drinking Smoker
Suerte said:
-jinx- said he would unstick it in a few days. My suggestion would be to bookmark the thread for easy access.
Agent Dormer
Dirty Drinking Smoker
Tracklisting for "Cheers, New Year!"
1. Cheif Inspector Blancheflower - The Fiery Furnaces
2. She's Electric - Oasis
3. Zak and Sara - Ben Folds
4. In Aeroplane Over the Sea - Neutral Milk Hotel
5. Fighting in a Sack - The Shins
6. What Tom Said About Girls - The Blow
7. Rare Ould Times - Flogging Molly
8. Don't Stop Me Now - Queen
9. Neighborhood #2 (Laika) - The Arcade Fire
10 Knock Yourself Out - Jon Brion
11. Your Magic is Working - Of Montreal
12. Good Vibrations - Brian Wilson
13. Cosmic Kids - Lucky Pierre
1. Cheif Inspector Blancheflower - The Fiery Furnaces
2. She's Electric - Oasis
3. Zak and Sara - Ben Folds
4. In Aeroplane Over the Sea - Neutral Milk Hotel
5. Fighting in a Sack - The Shins
6. What Tom Said About Girls - The Blow
7. Rare Ould Times - Flogging Molly
8. Don't Stop Me Now - Queen
9. Neighborhood #2 (Laika) - The Arcade Fire
10 Knock Yourself Out - Jon Brion
11. Your Magic is Working - Of Montreal
12. Good Vibrations - Brian Wilson
13. Cosmic Kids - Lucky Pierre
Meatpuppet
Member
Aural Pleasure ~ Hitman
On The Sly ~ Metric Nice way to kick off the mix for me, as I've not heard Metric before. Decent enough song, if a little repetative. Not too keen on the lyrics or the singer, as they're both a bit bland. The overall tune is good though. 5/10
Smile Like You Mean It ~ The Killers The good thing about the rise to prominence of bands like Franz Ferdinand and the Strokes is that there are some guitar bands getting airtime on local radio. Sure, they're often only average in quality, but I'll take that anyday over the likes of S Club or similar pap. The Killers are a good example of the kind of tolerable pop that's getting played more often these days. I'd place them somewhere between the inconsistent FF and the solid Futureheads in terms of quality.
Anyways, not my favorite song from the album, but not the worst either. Too heavy on the synths during the chorus, which grates a bit. Like the simple percussion, and the vocals. 6/10
Dig For Fire ~ The Pixies Bossanova doesn't get the credit it should to my mind. Celia Ann, Alison and this song are some of the Pixies best offerings. Frank Black in a restrained/mellow track makes a nice change of pace from the standard frenetic nature of the Pixies material. 7/10
Bandages ~ Hot Hot Heat Really not a fan of HHH, so my opinion on this is pretty tainted to begin with. Trying to look at it objectively, I guess the song has a strong sense of propulsion, for want of a better word, in that every section within the song pushes onwards to the next. The lyrics are just too damn annoying, and the singer's voice doesn't make things any easier. Bleh. 4/10
U-Mass ~ The Pixies Another Pixies choice that veers from the norm. U-Mass is one of the weaker tracks on Trompe-Le-Monde, but its still very listenable. Some great trademark Black Francis screams. 7/10
Letter To Memphis ~ The Pixies LTM always strikes me as of being very similar to the early Frank Black solo output, particularly from Teenager of the Year, in terms of structure and sound. Like Dig For Fire, a mellow Pixies song. 8/10
Black History Month ~ Death From Above 1979 You're A Woman, I'm A Machine was an album I was going to pick up a month or so ago, but never managed to find in the stores. On the evidence of this track, I'm not sure they merit the critical acclaim they've been receiving. Then again, the track from the album featured on Shazzap's mix is much better, so this may simply be one of their less impressive tracks. The background riffs are a touch too simplistic to carry their repetition. 5/10
Every You Every Me ~ Placebo Real change of pace from the previous song, only retaining the element of strong and driving percussion. One of the songs from my early teens, got a fairly nostalgic love for the song. Brian Molko has a really distinctive voice, and it integrates well into the music the band plays. 7/10
Brother Down ~ Sam Roberts Never heard of Sam Roberts before, might check hiim/them out further after this. Reminds me a bit of Elliot Smith, despite sounding pretty much nothing like it... not that that makes much sense. Anyway, only downers are that the music is a little unadventurous, and the clapping irks (pet peeve). 6/10
Non Photo-Blue ~ Pinback Another new band for me from this mix. Left me pretty indifferent. :/ 4/10
I'll get the rest in when I get the chance
On The Sly ~ Metric Nice way to kick off the mix for me, as I've not heard Metric before. Decent enough song, if a little repetative. Not too keen on the lyrics or the singer, as they're both a bit bland. The overall tune is good though. 5/10
Smile Like You Mean It ~ The Killers The good thing about the rise to prominence of bands like Franz Ferdinand and the Strokes is that there are some guitar bands getting airtime on local radio. Sure, they're often only average in quality, but I'll take that anyday over the likes of S Club or similar pap. The Killers are a good example of the kind of tolerable pop that's getting played more often these days. I'd place them somewhere between the inconsistent FF and the solid Futureheads in terms of quality.
Anyways, not my favorite song from the album, but not the worst either. Too heavy on the synths during the chorus, which grates a bit. Like the simple percussion, and the vocals. 6/10
Dig For Fire ~ The Pixies Bossanova doesn't get the credit it should to my mind. Celia Ann, Alison and this song are some of the Pixies best offerings. Frank Black in a restrained/mellow track makes a nice change of pace from the standard frenetic nature of the Pixies material. 7/10
Bandages ~ Hot Hot Heat Really not a fan of HHH, so my opinion on this is pretty tainted to begin with. Trying to look at it objectively, I guess the song has a strong sense of propulsion, for want of a better word, in that every section within the song pushes onwards to the next. The lyrics are just too damn annoying, and the singer's voice doesn't make things any easier. Bleh. 4/10
U-Mass ~ The Pixies Another Pixies choice that veers from the norm. U-Mass is one of the weaker tracks on Trompe-Le-Monde, but its still very listenable. Some great trademark Black Francis screams. 7/10
Letter To Memphis ~ The Pixies LTM always strikes me as of being very similar to the early Frank Black solo output, particularly from Teenager of the Year, in terms of structure and sound. Like Dig For Fire, a mellow Pixies song. 8/10
Black History Month ~ Death From Above 1979 You're A Woman, I'm A Machine was an album I was going to pick up a month or so ago, but never managed to find in the stores. On the evidence of this track, I'm not sure they merit the critical acclaim they've been receiving. Then again, the track from the album featured on Shazzap's mix is much better, so this may simply be one of their less impressive tracks. The background riffs are a touch too simplistic to carry their repetition. 5/10
Every You Every Me ~ Placebo Real change of pace from the previous song, only retaining the element of strong and driving percussion. One of the songs from my early teens, got a fairly nostalgic love for the song. Brian Molko has a really distinctive voice, and it integrates well into the music the band plays. 7/10
Brother Down ~ Sam Roberts Never heard of Sam Roberts before, might check hiim/them out further after this. Reminds me a bit of Elliot Smith, despite sounding pretty much nothing like it... not that that makes much sense. Anyway, only downers are that the music is a little unadventurous, and the clapping irks (pet peeve). 6/10
Non Photo-Blue ~ Pinback Another new band for me from this mix. Left me pretty indifferent. :/ 4/10
I'll get the rest in when I get the chance
Agent Dormer
Dirty Drinking Smoker
-jinx- said:
Didn't mean to say it was you -jinx-, just knew that you had mentioned unsticking it in a couple days. XD
my review of hotarubi's mix:
1) futureheads - hounds of love:
i like how the vocals at the beginning sound all offbeat and then they match up when the instruments kick in. good song.
2) the go! team - power is on:
i like the beat and the feel of this song, but the sort of distorted washed out sound kind of irritated me. other than that it was great.
3) q and not u - wonderful people:
i'm still on the fence with q and not u, i liked different damage a bit, and i'm undecided on power. this song is cool, but didn't really do much for me.
4) hot snakes - plenty for all:
don't really care for hot snakes that much, particularly the vocals on this song.
5) say anything - the futile:
oh man i really liked this song even though i feel like i shouldn't. sort of pop-punkish, i like the vocals, just enough rasp with the melody, and the lyrics were pretty funny. vaguely reminds me of alkaline trio.
6) death from above 1979 - romantic rights:
didn't really like this one that much. too much noise maybe.
7) tom waits - hoist that rag:
this song is pretty sweet, especially with the multiple vocals yelling the chorus. tom waits is always fun to listen to.
8) paul pena - gonna move:
good song, i liked it.
9) wilco - hummingbird (soma version):
this is one of my less-liked wilco songs, but most of wilco's stuff i like, so i still liked this a bit.
10) bright eyes - hit the switch:
connor o'berst is a moron, but i still like bright eyes a lot. this song is no exception.
11) the comas - science of your mind:
sort of trippy vocals and sounds that i didn't really like that much but i bet it would be awesome with the appropriate drugs. but then again, what wouldn't be awesome with appropriate drugs?
12) earlimart - first instance last report:
i think this is from the newest album, which i haven't heard, but this song reminds me that i should listen to it.
13) now it's overheard - wait in a line:
i like the delay on the guitars, and the drums are pretty nice. but the vocals not so much.
14) blockhead - insomniac olympics:
oh man i put this on one of my mixes too (i think it went to quadrophenic, hopefully i didn't send it to hotarubi) i really like this song. i forget what that horn melody is from, but either way it's sweet. gets a little slow towards the middle but overall a reallly solid song.
15) mouse on mars - wipe that sound:
haven't listened to mouse on mars for a loooong time and i've definitely never heard this song. i'm used to the more idm-ish mouse on mars, but this song is definitely one of my favorites.
16) razorlight - golden touch:
i liked this song a lot. the rhythm guitar has a cool feel to it. the lyrics didn't do much for me though, but the overall package was good.
17) beck - debra:
i remember reading some thread here the other day where somebody mentioned that beck can change his sound pretty much into whatever and still sound, unmistakably, like beck. they were definitely right; all of midnight vultures is (well i think it is anyways) pretty weird, but i like it. it's like stuff from odelay with a more funk/jazz craziness thrown in.
18) james brown - there was a time:
james brown may be completely insane these days, but his music is still pretty sweet.
19) lcd soundsystem - yeah (crass version) vs. beat connection:
the james brown track flows really well into this one. a 9 minute epic (well sort of) going from kind of unassuming and quiet to just throbbing loud techno. and i mean that in a really really good way.
overall: once again, hotarubi delivers a really really solid mix. some of the rock stuff i didn't like so much, but all the electronic stuff was very enjoyable. i've somehow had the opportunity to trade with hotarubi for probably every mix exchange i've been in, and his mixes are always among the front-runners.
1) futureheads - hounds of love:
i like how the vocals at the beginning sound all offbeat and then they match up when the instruments kick in. good song.
2) the go! team - power is on:
i like the beat and the feel of this song, but the sort of distorted washed out sound kind of irritated me. other than that it was great.
3) q and not u - wonderful people:
i'm still on the fence with q and not u, i liked different damage a bit, and i'm undecided on power. this song is cool, but didn't really do much for me.
4) hot snakes - plenty for all:
don't really care for hot snakes that much, particularly the vocals on this song.
5) say anything - the futile:
oh man i really liked this song even though i feel like i shouldn't. sort of pop-punkish, i like the vocals, just enough rasp with the melody, and the lyrics were pretty funny. vaguely reminds me of alkaline trio.
6) death from above 1979 - romantic rights:
didn't really like this one that much. too much noise maybe.
7) tom waits - hoist that rag:
this song is pretty sweet, especially with the multiple vocals yelling the chorus. tom waits is always fun to listen to.
8) paul pena - gonna move:
good song, i liked it.
9) wilco - hummingbird (soma version):
this is one of my less-liked wilco songs, but most of wilco's stuff i like, so i still liked this a bit.
10) bright eyes - hit the switch:
connor o'berst is a moron, but i still like bright eyes a lot. this song is no exception.
11) the comas - science of your mind:
sort of trippy vocals and sounds that i didn't really like that much but i bet it would be awesome with the appropriate drugs. but then again, what wouldn't be awesome with appropriate drugs?
12) earlimart - first instance last report:
i think this is from the newest album, which i haven't heard, but this song reminds me that i should listen to it.
13) now it's overheard - wait in a line:
i like the delay on the guitars, and the drums are pretty nice. but the vocals not so much.
14) blockhead - insomniac olympics:
oh man i put this on one of my mixes too (i think it went to quadrophenic, hopefully i didn't send it to hotarubi) i really like this song. i forget what that horn melody is from, but either way it's sweet. gets a little slow towards the middle but overall a reallly solid song.
15) mouse on mars - wipe that sound:
haven't listened to mouse on mars for a loooong time and i've definitely never heard this song. i'm used to the more idm-ish mouse on mars, but this song is definitely one of my favorites.
16) razorlight - golden touch:
i liked this song a lot. the rhythm guitar has a cool feel to it. the lyrics didn't do much for me though, but the overall package was good.
17) beck - debra:
i remember reading some thread here the other day where somebody mentioned that beck can change his sound pretty much into whatever and still sound, unmistakably, like beck. they were definitely right; all of midnight vultures is (well i think it is anyways) pretty weird, but i like it. it's like stuff from odelay with a more funk/jazz craziness thrown in.
18) james brown - there was a time:
james brown may be completely insane these days, but his music is still pretty sweet.
19) lcd soundsystem - yeah (crass version) vs. beat connection:
the james brown track flows really well into this one. a 9 minute epic (well sort of) going from kind of unassuming and quiet to just throbbing loud techno. and i mean that in a really really good way.
overall: once again, hotarubi delivers a really really solid mix. some of the rock stuff i didn't like so much, but all the electronic stuff was very enjoyable. i've somehow had the opportunity to trade with hotarubi for probably every mix exchange i've been in, and his mixes are always among the front-runners.
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