Rolling Stones - Sympathy for the Devil
(Dec 20, 2012 - 09:21) | It's kind of funny, Mick and Keith are known as performers, but some of their songwriting is as good as it gets. This is one, 'Wild Horses' is another. Entirely different styles as well.
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Monika - Yes I Do
(Dec 14, 2012 - 07:53) | tkosh wrote: Some weird comments. My first listen, and I loved it! I thought it was beautiful. RP is sooo cool!
Exactly my thought. I'm not sure what to make of it, but it is very interesting.
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Cassandra Wilson - Death Letter
(Dec 12, 2012 - 10:58) | On_The_Beach wrote:
. . . with a drop of Nina Simone . . . My thought exactly.
And the goof who wants her to put a shirt on? What are you thinking, man?!
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Magic Slim & James Cotton - When the Levee Breaks
(Dec 12, 2012 - 07:55) | Wiki says:
"When the Levee Breaks" is a blues song written and first recorded by husband and wife Kansas Joe McCoy and Memphis Minnie in 1929. The song is in reaction to the upheaval caused by the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927.
So I'm cornfused why this album is 'Led Zeppelin' songs. But hey, any version of it is okay with me.
BTW, that is the same flood Randy Newman wrote a song about. To this day that flood, and the official reactions to it, have repercussions in the places it affected.
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Spencer Davis Group - Gimme Some Lovin
(Dec 12, 2012 - 07:35) | Mikvalia wrote:I honestly thought these guys were black!
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Spencer Davis Group - Gimme Some Lovin
(Dec 12, 2012 - 07:32) | helenofjoy wrote: This was one of my favorite songs to dance to in the old days! I was a go-go dancer at Mickie's A Go Go in Omaha, Nebraska. Pictures or it didn't happen...
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Warren Zevon - Roland The Headless Thompson Gunner
(Dec 07, 2012 - 12:00) | Cynaera wrote:I still love this song. I wish I could hear more Zevon here, apart from "Werewolves of London." He did such wonderful stuff in his life - my personal favorite lately is one of his latest - "Disorder In The House" with Bruce Springsteen - I can't upload it, but if someone would, it'd be such a great addition to the Zevon library at RP! Damn - he knew he was dying, so he went out twisting and shouting. So typical of him - he never did anything halfway. He always took on life full-tilt with all ailerons open and maybe the parachute would open. I miss my friend Warren. 
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Sam Cooke - A Change is Gonna Come
(Dec 07, 2012 - 11:52) | Not sure how accurate this story is, but I thought I heard an interview about the writing of this song. Supposedly he wrote it in the car on the way to a gig: they needed another song for their set list and wanted something gospel-sounding but not TOO gospel-sounding. I don't know if there's really such a thing as divine inspiration, but this song would be pretty good proof.
Edit: Wiki set me straight. Written in his tour bus after visiting with demonstrators. Doesn't change the quality of the song though.
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Patty Griffin - Burgundy Shoes
(Dec 07, 2012 - 10:00) | ziakut wrote: Chilling and sad. Why should I like something that makes me feel this way?
Because we keep our emotions hidden most of the time. When something draws out our emotions, which Ms. Griffin seems to do effortlessly, we seem to like the experience. Even the sad emotions. Maybe especially the sad emotions, they remind us who we are, where we've been, who we've known.
Like our dear friends Ann (Cynaera) and MelissaB. And all the others who've passed through our lives.
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Django Reinhardt - Limehouse Blues
(Dec 05, 2012 - 11:57) | bluecshells wrote: So he supposedly shot rats with a gun in his spare time. It is very hard for me to separate this from the great music. I will for the sake of my own sanity. I don't understand what one has to do with the other.
Besides, rats are vermin: they spread diseases, destroy property, etc. Shooting them is more humane than most other methods of extermination.
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Django Reinhardt - Limehouse Blues
(Dec 05, 2012 - 11:54) | RickyBobby wrote: I think I like it. I feel like I should be holding a drink and a cigar though...
You're not? Get with the program, man.
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Martha Wainwright - Factory
(Dec 05, 2012 - 08:51) | Byronape wrote:
It's "The chick with a dick and a gift for the gab".
I'm hoping that it isn't literal and is instead either a reference to a very masculine woman or a very effeminate chatty guy.
Nothing against transvestites, I just don't think very many will be working in factories. But I could be wrong, according to my wife it happens all the time.
I think it is a somewhat derogatory reference to a transgendered person. Not a transvestite. Different things.
It so happens there is an RPeep who is transgendered and is a talented woodworker/cabinetmaker. She works in a small factory. I think of her as a dear friend, which is why that line bothers me no end. Nobody wants to hear their friend insulted for just being herself, right?
That said, I like Martha Wainwright, her brother, and even their Dad. Doesn't make that line bother me any less though.
Peace,
c.
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Bruce Hornsby - The Way It Is
(Nov 30, 2012 - 07:53) | sajitjacob wrote: And yet 3 years after this came out the Berlin Wall fell. Most people's lives are better now than they were even a generation ago, and check out the infant mortality rates of 100 years ago!. At the end of the day it's all about perspective.
Hopelessness is the seed of apathy,
It's Friday beer o clock, and I drink to hope and Bill's tunes that have kept me going though some rough old times.
Thanks. Sometimes we need to be reminded how far we've come.
- I grew up in Montgomery Alabama. I've seen racism up close and personal. Mr. Hornsby references some elements ('the color bar') that have disappeared, thankfully. Racism is still there, no doubt, but there has been some progress.
- I was fortunate(?) enough to visit East Berlin around 1986. At that time no one, NO ONE, could imagine the wall coming down in their lifetime.
Peace.
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Michael Hedges - Rickover's Dream
(Nov 27, 2012 - 08:17) | linz_bobinz wrote: I keep expecting Joni Mitchell to start singing. Pat Metheny was her guitarist for a long time, and his sound is a bit similar to this, I agree. I like both, a lot. Nice.
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Patty Griffin - Mary
(Nov 20, 2012 - 11:08) | rdo wrote: As a board certified atheist, I like this song. There's a board? Dammit, nobody told me. I wanna be certified too. They say I'm already certifiable, so it should be a snap.
What?
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Carbon Leaf - The War Was In Color
(Nov 19, 2012 - 09:59) | 9 —-> 10
This song is one of just a few that makes me stop and listen, and tear up a little, no matter how many times I've heard it.
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Alison Krauss and Union Station - The Boy Who Wouldn't Hoe Corn
(Nov 15, 2012 - 08:16) | kcar wrote:
Is Jerry Douglas playing on this track? 'Cause that Dobro (whatever it is) sounds exactly the one from "Skip, Hop and Wobble. Douglas did play on that album...
Yes. His sound is distinctive.
If he sticks with it, he could be really good someday...
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Patty Griffin - Change
(Nov 15, 2012 - 08:01) | amoreena wrote: Saw her with Robert Plant, who told the rapt audience that Patty was the best female vocalist in America. What he said.
Who?
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I Am Kloot - Northern Skies
(Nov 15, 2012 - 07:24) | baddog8it wrote: Reminds me of Willy Nelson. Too bad - that really kills their rating.
I was thinking Robin Hitchcock.
BTW, it's 'Willie'.
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David Bromberg - Sharon
(Nov 05, 2012 - 14:26) | Blastcat900 wrote: There are so many better songs by David Bromberg.. let's hear those ! I gave this song a high rating because of the artist. Kinda hate this song. Does RP ever read these comments?
No.
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Bill Withers - Use Me
(Nov 02, 2012 - 12:04) | cc_rider wrote: Bill 'The Lung' Withers has no equal, period. This may be his very best song, of many excellent ones. The voice, the lyrics, the groove, all mesh perfectly.
Bump.
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye (live)
(Nov 02, 2012 - 07:52) | Cynaera wrote:
Sitting here in tears. Dammit. Patty Griffin does that to me. I've just resolved to use any disposable income I have to see this woman in concert ONCE, no matter where she is (if it's Montréal, so much the better, but Sedona would be fine, too.) Life's too short to drink bad port. I think Ernest Hemmingway said that, but don't quote me. The point is, life's too short to miss out on the magic, and Ms. Griffin has it, to the n'th power. Off to put my new computer on hold and look for tickets instead. *Tossing faerie dust over my shoulder as I go* 
Godspeed, Ann. We miss you.
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Joe Ely - Boxcars
(Nov 01, 2012 - 12:37) | Love hearing Joe Ely on RP. He's been a fixture of the Austin scene forever, which makes some of the comments seem funny.
This still sounds fresh, and relevant, all these years on...
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James McMurtry - Off And Running
(Oct 24, 2012 - 15:24) | TerryS wrote: now with this track, I won't have the relentless melody of Choctaw Bingo off and running through my mind for days
You say that like it's a bad thing...
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye (live)
(Oct 23, 2012 - 09:06) | AlienRelic wrote: I am reminded of a friend I lost a couple of years ago. This song hurts.
Sorry for your loss. This song distills so much emotion into a few painful minutes, it's hard to listen to. But I do. I stop and listen every time.
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Patty Griffin - Stolen Car
(Oct 15, 2012 - 11:51) | RobK wrote: This song does a great job of highlighting the talents of two individuals. Bruce's songwriting (which has always managed to somehow be underrated) and Patty's, well, Patty's everything.
Indeed, Ms. Griffin has the whole package: songwriting, voice, evocative style. Plus she hangs around with some guy singer who was in a pretty okay band himself.
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The Kinks - Celluloid Heroes
(Oct 11, 2012 - 08:24) | rubenbeagle wrote: Oh Pul-eeeeze. I enjoy a good movie as well as the next guy, but our culture's obsession with the actors and actresses is a bit much....
I don't disagree, but movies have also been agents of change. 'I was a Fugitive from a Chain Gang' exposed the abuses of the chain gang prisons and led to reforms (several scenes in 'Cool Hand Luke' are practically shot-for-shot remakes). 'The Snake Pit', among others, led to reforms in mental institutions.
Hedy Lamar (sp?) made breakthroughs in communication technology that are still used today. Many stars served in WW II, and not just in promo pieces either. Jimmy Stewart flew a B-24, for example.
Movies have the opportunity to reveal the best, and the worst, of human behavior. For every 'Inherit the Wind' there are a dozen 'Booty Call's.
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Beethoven - Symphony No.5 - Allegro Con Brio
(Oct 09, 2012 - 09:59) | Hasan wrote: I saw a wonderful little movie as a teenager, in the 1960s, of a teaching student, taking a motor boat to a very poor village, with a wind up phonograph and a small collection of disks. He opened the eyes and minds of the kids to many things, but the most touching was when he played Beethoven's 5th.
If anyone knows the name of that film, I'd so love to see it again.
It's not 'Conrack' is it? Jon Voight?
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The Ditty Bops - Ooh La La
(Oct 04, 2012 - 08:25) | Poacher wrote:
That is because when you are listening via the internet Bill has direct access to your computer and knows what you are looking at. . . he also has control over your screen camera.
I'd stop looking at those pictures and put your trousers back on.
Dammit Poach, you weren't supposed to tell anyone about that! The only way Bill keeps this place afloat is by selling the camera feeds.
Sheesh some people. Can't have anything nice.
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John Prine - Paradise
(Oct 01, 2012 - 14:56) | Grammarcop wrote: As you probably know, this song is about a fictitious town in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, and the damage coal mining did to the landscape, rivers and people. I recently took a drive through Kentucky and was appalled to see "Friends of Coal" vanity license plates on several cars. Not fictitious. Paradise was a real town. I think it is gone now.
We just saw Mr. Prine in concert this week. Wonderful as always. This was his encore, with Alejandro Escovedo singing a verse.
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Townes Van Zandt - Lungs
(Oct 01, 2012 - 11:04) | sajitjacob wrote: Is this Wilson Dixon?
It's Townes Van Zandt. Steve Earle said once 'Townes Van Zandt is the greatest songwriter ever. And I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots to say it.'
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Townes Van Zandt - Lungs
(Oct 01, 2012 - 11:02) | LizK wrote:
I'm not familiar with 'Mr. Gold & Mr. Mud" Is that like firing up "Pancho & Lefty"?
Similar vein. Mr. Gold and Mr. Mud is another fairly famous Townes tune. Steve Earle can probably play most of TVZ's catalog.
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Madrugada - Majesty
(Oct 01, 2012 - 07:31) | jagdriver wrote:
Some of their stuff is palatable, but RP overplayed this track a couple of years ago to the point that it now ranks alongside Hotel California, Layla, Stairway To Heaven, Lola and Freebird as tracks I never need to hear again. In short, it's been "Clear Channeled."
Blasphemer.
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Ennio Morricone - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
(Sep 28, 2012 - 12:58) | FlatCat wrote:
It was really a character created by Toshiro Mifuni for Akira Kurasawa's samurai movies "Yojimbo" and "Sanjuro". "Fistful" is an almost scene-by-scene copy of Yojimbo. Check both movies out if you haven't seen them.
The Magnificent Seven took great pains to give Mr. Kurasawa credit, but the Sergio Leone neglected that little detail. I think several of those movies were basically remakes of Kurasawa films.
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King Crimson - Eyes Wide Open
(Sep 28, 2012 - 08:45) | Shesdifferent wrote: I wish they still made music........
Check out Pat Mastellotto (sp?). He played drums with KC for awhile, and has a number of projects going. Similar musical vein.
He lives in Dripping Springs, his wife is a long-time friend.
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John Hiatt - Take it Down
(Sep 28, 2012 - 07:42) | Goat9 wrote: Unless I'm mistaken, this song is actually in reference to the Confederate flag controversy in South Carolina in 2000. SC had been flying the rebel flag on the statehouse on a 50' flapgpole ("My love is 50' tall.") Hiatt was urging them to "Take it down, down." ("SC, where are you? The war is over, the battle through.") That makes sense. I never really thought about it, but now it means more to me. I grew up in Alabama, where the State flag is still very much reminiscent of the Stars and Bars. I witnessed all forms of racism, from Klan marches to 'the soft bigotry of low expectations', and everything in between.
Thank you.
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Patty Griffin - Sweet Lorraine
(Sep 27, 2012 - 15:01) | missquo wrote: I remember watching Patty perform pretty much everything from this album in Nashville back in 1997. I've never heard just a person and an acoustic guitar fill up a room like that, and with no PA. Best $3 I ever spent. I've seen her a few times, mostly benefit shows so it's not a full set. Saw a show with Shawn Colvin at the Paramount, a benefit for something-or-other. Needless to say, they were pretty okay.
It's funny how folks outside of Austin are still discovering her, and we've been stunned by her performances for years.
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Patty Griffin - Sweet Lorraine
(Sep 27, 2012 - 14:57) | Baby_M wrote:
She's overclocking her voice, and the song's probably not quite in the best key for her. Pull it back, Patty!
Rest assured she is doing all of those things on purpose. Did Hank Williams sing within his comfort zone? Not hardly: his was the voice of a tortured soul crying out in pain. Those cracks and strained notes evoke emotion, not mere vocal stylings (Aaron Neville comes to mind, but he's not the only perpetrator, just one of the most egregious. And most famous.)
Ms. Griffin is one of the most evocative singers around. She makes her voice sing with emotion, not just notes. It ain't everyone's cuppa tea, I'll grant you that.
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Peggy Lee - Fever
(Sep 25, 2012 - 08:41) | rabbi_phil wrote: Fever?...yeah that's great....till she calls you on the golf course...wants to talk..ugghhh.."hi yaa,how ya dooiiiin,howz your day...how you feeeelin...last night was special", do ya miss me??.....pleeeeeze, I'm trrryyin to birdie the 14th. then you turn your phone off..gotta putt now. MUCH later you get home and that feverz gonna kill you. brrrrrrrrr..ice cold..then she says we have to"talk"....oh no!....no no no..not "the Talk"!..then some tears,jeeeez not the tears.(why do they do that?)..she says you"re shallow selfish and insincere...only want 1 thing .....Ok..whats your point?
Brutal.
Love this song though. This is the definitive version.
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Beat Farmers - California Kid
(Sep 21, 2012 - 11:12) | Oscar_the_Grouch wrote:
To open your little mind to the wider world of music you may never have heard before and wouldn't ordinarily hear, thus breaking you out of your well padded comfort zone. Are you sure you're in the right place?
Bump. Grouch speak truth.
It's goofy, it's funny. I like it.
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Patty Griffin - Cold As It Gets
(Sep 21, 2012 - 10:49) | Cynaera wrote: I've tried to figure out what it is about Patty Griffin's music/voice that makes me want to bow down and worship her - I still don't have an answer. I just know that I haven't heard a single song by her that I feel rates less than an 8 - and most songs are 10. She just rings true for me.
Rest in piece, my friend.
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Toni Price - Comes Love
(Sep 20, 2012 - 09:50) | It is great to hear Toni Price here. We've enjoyed listening to her for years.
Another torchy kind of singer in our area is MaryAnn Price. I have no idea if they're related. MAP was one of Dan Hicks' original 'Lickettes'.
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Patty Griffin - Mad Mission
(Sep 19, 2012 - 11:33) | hippiechick wrote: ANNOUNCEMENT: Patty Griffin is now married to Robert Plant! They have a house here in Austin. Travis Heights neighborhood I think. I know the realtor.
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Carbon Leaf - The War Was In Color
(Sep 17, 2012 - 12:15) | Vinco wrote: Ah, so it's a political song...I wondered what purpose this music could have to anyone...anywhere...at any time
This music should remind people that war is horrific. Always has been, always will be.
There is no political implication to that statement. We can debate whether any particular war was (or is) necessary, but on the ground it doesn't matter. People die, in myriad horrible ways. The ones who survive are forever changed. Always have been, always will be.
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Elton John - Where To Now St. Peter
(Sep 17, 2012 - 08:04) | Antigone wrote: Knew it was EJ just by the first few piano notes. It's funny how an artist can have such a distinctive sound, especially on a relatively 'neutral' instrument like piano. Sure, SRV, Clapton, Jimi, Eddie, George Benson, etc. etc. etc. make their sounds completely unique. Stevie Wonder's harmonica is another example. Practically all horn players. But the piano?
As others have mentioned though, his 'attack' is anything but subtle, maybe that's it. Regardless, it's funny how a handful of notes immediately identify him.
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Replacements - Can't Hardly Wait
(Sep 13, 2012 - 08:27) | Paul Westerberg collaborated with Glenn Campbell on his (Glenn's) last album. 'Last' as in 'he's not going to make any more because he's dying'.
The album is very good. Paul's writing, with Glenn's voice, aged but still strong, is quite a combination. Definitely worth a listen. Or two.
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Hank Dogs - I'm an Angel
(Sep 12, 2012 - 09:51) | Huey wrote:How do you know this stuff Fred??? 
You do NOT want to know...
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John Hiatt - Lift Up Every Stone
(Sep 12, 2012 - 09:10) | h8rhater wrote:
If your opinion is shit, don't worry. You can still post it.
Brutal. Accurate, but brutal.
8—>9
I've heard this song untold times. Gets better every time.
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Chris Smither - I Am The Ride
(Sep 12, 2012 - 09:02) | Quixx_II wrote: I love when Bill gets into a theme both lyrically & musically... that, more than anything else, keeps me coming back here.
I thought it was our collective sparkling personality. Dang.
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Ennio Morricone - For A Few Dollars More
(Sep 10, 2012 - 13:56) | Misterfixit wrote:
Oh oh! Not PC! It's now called a "Jaw Harp". Consider yourself whipped with Birkenstock sandals and forced to consume large amounts of granola.
Brutal, Mister.
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Long John Baldry - Don't Try To Lay No Boogie Woogie
(Sep 07, 2012 - 11:05) | shellbella wrote: Didn't Elton John play with Long John when he was still known as Reginald Kenneth Dwight? And isn't that where he got his last name from?
I think that's a true story but I know there are a LOT of people in the know that listen to RP. Just wondering....
I believe you are correct. That's how I heard it, anyway, hence my comment below.
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Richie Havens - Freedom
(Sep 07, 2012 - 07:45) | fitzworld wrote: It doesn't get any better than this!!
If you haven't seen Richie Havens lately he is truly remarkable. He exudes a Zen-like "wise man" quality that is mesmerizing. What a special, special musician, and a very grounded human being.
What's even more interesting, those qualities do not seem to have come, so much with age, but with a special spirit. He opened Woodstock, right? Came out on stage in front of hundreds of thousands of people, and had to stretch his set because other artists were late (or drunk or stoned or who-knows-what). Did he freak out, as any normal young musician would? Naw, he just performed with poise and grace, and knocked 'em dead. That's a class act, with maturity beyond his years.
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James McMurtry - Safe Side
(Sep 05, 2012 - 13:16) | twrl33 wrote: Cutting to the chase, this song is shockingly racist. If it's irony in the context of the singers body of work, then play the whole body of work. I know of far too many people who like nothing better than to have these prejudices confirmed.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep. In comedy and satire, not everybody gets the joke. Sorry you didn't.
And Bill does play other songs by him. Most are equally offensive to someone. See my other post(s) for details.
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James McMurtry - Safe Side
(Sep 05, 2012 - 13:13) | Byronape wrote:
Are you being sarcastic cc_rider? I hope so, otherwise you need to get out more.
Yes, I am. Sorry I was not more direct.
As mentioned below, this song is really about the bigoted racists who actually believe those stereotypes. I've heard this song many times, and never considered it any other way.
Consider another of his more famous works, 'Choctaw Bingo'. Or 'Levelland'. He writes songs about the people he grew up around: bigoted, small-minded, intolerant racists. People who bled the land dry and ruined it. People who cook meth, go to cockfights, screw their cousins, shoot guns for fun (okay, he got me on that one). He writes songs about people he cannot STAND. This one is no different.
Mr. McMurtry has a regular Wednesday night gig at the Continental Club on South Congress. If he was actually racist he'd've been booted years ago.
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Joseph Arthur - Travel As Equals
(Aug 30, 2012 - 08:28) | Sort of reminds me of a couple of Townes Van Zandt songs. I guess it's the delivery.
Not entirely sure what I think of it yet.
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Azure Ray - New Resolution
(Aug 29, 2012 - 08:09) | Patti wrote: Parts of this song remind me of the little ditty that Willy Wonka sings when going thru the Wonkawash: ......not a speck of light is showing / so the danger must be growing / are the fires of hell a-glowing? / is the grisly reaper mowing? / yes the danger must be growing / etc. ;) pbm
Maybe that's why I like it!
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Jeff Buckley - Last Goodbye
(Aug 14, 2012 - 14:35) | jenovella70 wrote:
I bought it when it first came out, based on seeing the video on MTV (lol). I loved this song but the rest of the album took about another couple of years to really hit me, as well! I'm glad I came back to it, because now I cannot imagine how I missed this genius. I can't say enough how much I love the "tear" in his voice, the sadness & depth of feeling, not to mention the albums use of nuance, which is lost on a lot of more modern music. (Can't stand compression!) My fave track is probably "Lover, You Should Have Come Over," but the whole album is a classic to me. (Even if I still kind of prefer Nina Simone's version of Lilac Wine :P)
The what on MTV? MTV played videos? That's crazy talk.
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Thomas Dolby - I Love You Goodbye
(Aug 14, 2012 - 11:20) | agkagk wrote:
It does sound a lot like Bruce Hornsby, but it's even closer to the theme song from Baywatch ("I'm Always Here"). Toward the end of this song are a couple of bars that are almost identical. No idea who was first.
That's who I was trying to think off. The piano at the beginning.
This isn't bad, but it's not 'Blinded Me'...
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B.B. King - The Thrill Is Gone
(Aug 14, 2012 - 08:18) | painapple wrote: "....but it's time for BB to call it quits.I saw him and Buddy Guy in KC about 6-8 months ago and BB just sat in a chair and spoke for about 90 minutes(sad)...."
Maybe you could cut the man some slack since he is after all 86 and diabetic!!!
Amen. I was fortunate enough to see Bo Diddley a year or so before he passed away, and he sat and played whatever he damn well felt like playing.
He also made a plea for diabetes detection and prevention: he had a 'boot' on one foot due to a diabetes-related condition. And he still rocked the joint like nobody's business.
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The Beatles - I Am The Walrus
(Aug 09, 2012 - 08:12) | We have a Beatles tribute band called 'The Eggmen'. I have not seen them but have heard they are very, very good.
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Viscounts - Harlem Nocturne
(Aug 02, 2012 - 07:29) | Stuff I love about Radio Paradise:
- Bill plays songs like this...
- Which make me want to learn more about them...
- And I learn something new...
Wiki: "Harlem Nocturne" is a jazz standard written by Earle Hagen and Dick Rogers in 1939.
This is one of those rare songs that is so perfect it can be covered, over and over again, and still sound fresh.
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The Black Crowes - Good Morning Captain
(Jul 31, 2012 - 11:17) | johnjconn wrote:
How does any man alive walk around with a hair cut like this? Mr. Keeshan was so cool he didn't have to LOOK cool.
Now, Emo Philips? You got me on that one. Wow.
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Johnny Cash - Get Rhythm
(Jul 31, 2012 - 08:55) | cc_rider wrote:
I agree. It still gets an 8 from me though.
8 —> 9. Now that Bill updated it to the 1956 version. Makes all the difference, I don't know why.
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Emmylou Harris - Red Dirt Girl
(Jul 27, 2012 - 12:39) | Cynaera wrote:I can't remember a time when I didn't love Emmylou Harris's music. She's a goddess. A goddess with brains, a voice, and a sense of graciousness that puts her head and shoulders above most "stars." I think I might have a girl-crush on her... 
Godspeed, Ann.
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Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros - Johnny Appleseed
(Jul 27, 2012 - 11:23) | mikec09 wrote: Yay! Mescaleros! . . . Now I have hope that "The High Road" will pop up during my work day at some point. Love that one too. Heck, love all the Mescaleros stuff.
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Elton John - Where To Now St. Peter
(Jul 27, 2012 - 10:36) | kaybee wrote:
No..he's talking about the afterlife, the canoe alludes to the River Styx (which I guess doesn't really fit with St. Peter as it's Greek Myth,) but anyway, the song is about a soldier dying and realizing his life was wasted in a meaningless war.
I just wish the message was outdated, y'know? But this song is always timely, sadly. Damn.
But yeah, Bernie didn't usually write very linearly. More like a collage than a portrait.
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The Avett Brothers - Head Full Of Doubt - Road Full Of Promise
(Jul 27, 2012 - 07:45) | On_The_Beach wrote:
Perhaps "Decide what you would like to be and try your damnedest to be it, but if it doesn't work out don't beat yourself up because life is difficult enough so just be content that you gave it the old college try and hey you're only human so crack a cold brewski take a deep breath and enjoy life's short but rich pageant" would have been more appropriate, if less succinct, and probably more difficult to set to music.
Well put. Thanks.
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Willis Alan Ramsey - Ballad of Spider John
(Jul 11, 2012 - 08:43) | snoodle wrote: I have this on vinyl. Found in bargain bin, in the second hand record store under what is now Whitcoulls on Queen St, Auckland, it has the price - 50c - written on the cover. This is the only place I have ever heard this record played. Except maybe the good old Border Radio show on Bfm years back. (I know, you didn't need to know all this)
Sure, but it's still a nice story. My knowledge of this song comes from Jimmy Buffett, who covered it faithfully. I like the original better now though.
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Willis Alan Ramsey - Ballad of Spider John
(Jul 11, 2012 - 08:41) | stunix wrote: did Bill just say something like
"his first release and he has been working on a followup album since its release ..... in 1972!"
I almost choked on my coffee!
W.A.R. is famous for two reasons: his amazing first album, and maybe the worst case of writer's block in history.
He also wrote 'Muskrat Candlelight', which was retooled as 'Muskrat Love' by a number of notable artists.
Another bunch of performers who don't like to rush into anything are The Flatlanders. Their sophomore effort came out a few years ago, something like 30 years after their first album. But they've been busy working. Mr. Ramsey, not so much.
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Fleetwood Mac - Sentimental Lady
(Jul 10, 2012 - 09:56) | lily34 wrote: i dont know who i thought did this song, but i didn't think it was fleetwood mac! i love it!
Me neither. I haven't heard this song in forever. I like it.
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye (live)
(Jun 29, 2012 - 12:50) | philbertr wrote:
And your post could almost bring me to tears, Cynaera! RadioParadise is a wonderful place. The music is incredible, and so are most of the members! (We just have to put up with the evil posts of the trolls as part of the price of membership. After all, even paradise has mosquitoes.)
The worst part of it all is, our friend Cynaera passed away a few months ago. I don't think she ever got to see Patty play.
This song has always brought me close to tears, but now it has extra impact.
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Jun 27, 2012 - 13:43) | ziggytrix wrote:
Roscoe's from Illinois. Bob and Mae could easily be from the south side of Texoma. Ruth Anne and Lyne are from Kansas. :p
It's kinda strange, if you dig into the lyrics, none of Slayton's kin (with the possible exception of Bob and Mae) are actually from OK, but that's where the reunion is being held cuz Slayton is getting too old to travel.
The subculture is centered around the confluence of Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Arkansas.
East Texas and western Louisiana have historically been pretty lawless: neither state had any interest in policing the area, so it was a haven for 'shiners, fugitives, et al.
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Jun 27, 2012 - 13:38) | oldslabsides wrote:
I've lived in Oklahoma City for over thirty years. The song is quite entertaining when one knows and has seen every place mentioned in it, and understands well the redneck sensibilities expressed.
You poor bastard.
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye (live)
(Jun 19, 2012 - 10:37) | Cynaera wrote:
Sitting here in tears. Dammit. Patty Griffin does that to me. I've just resolved to use any disposable income I have to see this woman in concert ONCE, no matter where she is (if it's Montréal, so much the better, but Sedona would be fine, too.) Life's too short to drink bad port. I think Ernest Hemmingway said that, but don't quote me. The point is, life's too short to miss out on the magic, and Ms. Griffin has it, to the n'th power. Off to put my new computer on hold and look for tickets instead. *Tossing faerie dust over my shoulder as I go*
Bump for our friend. Goodbye.
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Neko Case - Dirty Knife
(Jun 12, 2012 - 08:55) | ziakut wrote: Haunting and awesome. I love Neko Case. I'd even let her kiss me. Ha.
Don't let 'tuma hear you say that. Jealous sort, that one.
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Carbon Leaf - Toy Soldiers
(Jun 11, 2012 - 13:02) | RobMartin wrote:We find the people of our dreams
We find that they're not what they seem
I've learned that people come and go
I've learned that families break and grow
Toy soldiers brave away those tears
Toy soldiers hope for better years
Today I strike out on my own...
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Apollo Four Forty - The Man with the Harmonica
(Jun 11, 2012 - 10:28) | tallboy1968 wrote:
Harmonica is sampled from Supertramp, yes? I think it's the opening riff from "School" from Crime of the Century (1974).
Either that, or Supertramp sampled from the same harmonica?
Any experts on this one?
Um, if it sampled it is from 'Once Upon a Time in the West', a Sergio Leone movie with Charles Bronson (as The Man with the Harmonica), Jason Robards, Henry Fonda, Jack Elam, and Claudia Cardinale (drool...)
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Massive Attack - Live With Me
(Jun 07, 2012 - 09:34) | Never would have guessed Massive Attack. I like this a lot, reminds me of old-school Soul artists as mentioned below.
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Koko Taylor - Wang Dang Doodle
(Jun 07, 2012 - 09:07) | sirdroseph wrote:It's that little guitar pick during the chorus that makes this song, love it! 
Just sayin'.
But yeah, that extra little guitar work is icing on the cake.
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R.E.M. - Driver 8
(Jun 01, 2012 - 08:23) | driver8 wrote:Hi RP  how weird - i have been on RP for months - and to get on and hear this song!
The Bill works in mysterious ways...
back atcha...
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R.E.M. - Driver 8
(Jun 01, 2012 - 08:22) | Does this song actually mean anything? Don't get me wrong, I like it a lot (not quite as much as Romeo), and I keep trying to make sense of it. I like the imagery though, maybe that's all there is to it.
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Billy Bragg - Waiting For The Great Leap Forward
(May 31, 2012 - 08:03) | I've always liked Billy Bragg okay, but after I heard (and read about) the Mermaid Avenue recordings, my opinion of him was elevated considerably. I'm just sorry it took me so long to get on board!
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Jerry Douglas - Route Irish
(May 24, 2012 - 07:34) | fredriley wrote:The radical film director Ken Loach recently released a film called Route Irish, about 'private security contractors' in Iraq. According to Wikipedia, Route Irish is the main route between Baghdad Airport and the Green Zone. I just thought you'd be interested in that factoid.
Yes, I am interested. 'Irish' seems like a Route I would rather avoid. This song though, is sublime.
Only in the past year or so have I realized who was playing that amazing guitar in so many places. So distinctive, so perfect.
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Bo Diddley - You Can't Judge a Book By Looking at the Cover
(May 21, 2012 - 14:31) | Misterfixit wrote:
(Preaching on) And you know, the message of this song that you can't judge a book by looking at the cover is timeless and one for all of us to remember. (Preaching off) Keep preachin' it, Mister!
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Nick Drake - Time Has Told Me
(May 18, 2012 - 13:06) | toomanyollys wrote: Best song I've heard today... something about ND just makes me stop and listen. Brilliant.
Indeed.
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Donna Summer - I Feel Love
(May 18, 2012 - 10:45) | Thanks Bill. I had no idea any DS was in your catalog.
Never was a huge fan, but still.
RIP Disco Queen.
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ZZ Top - Just Got Paid
(May 10, 2012 - 14:04) | RobRyan wrote:
What do they do now (asking seriously by the way)?
Whatever they want to do.
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Richie Havens - We Both Know
(May 10, 2012 - 13:57) | ThePoose wrote: Much of the similarity in his sound comes from his frenetic guitar strumming. Richie: Try to fingerpick.
Would you tell Eric Clapton,Mark Knopfler or Santana to strum? Everybody's got their own groove, man. It's cool if you don't dig his style, that's fair, but telling a legend how he oughta play? Seriously?
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John Prine - Please Don't Bury Me
(May 07, 2012 - 08:21) | DanO-1 wrote: Wise choice John. You made the right decision. Delivering mail in Chicago in January must suck. It could bury one in the cold, cold ground. Stick to music.
Plus if I remember the story correctly, he really wasn't much of a postal carrier. Probably broke some federal laws along the way. Good thing he turned to songwriting instead...
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Neil Young - Powderfinger
(May 01, 2012 - 09:49) | jjtwister wrote: Dudes & Dudettes:
68 yrs old, been to Woodstock, grew up with NY and CSNY and love them. BUT, always looking for new ear candy and there's a lot around. RP turns me on to more new music than I could everr imagin.
Hey: what is Powderfinger all about. I'm thinkin' a log house on the Missouri or Missippi during the War of Northern Agression? Any thoughts?
I get the feeling it's somewhat more recent. Gunboats were a relative rarity in the 1860's. I'm thinking it's more like 'revenooers' coming in to bust up a still, which is practically timeless.
One of my fave NY songs, regardless.
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Bon Iver - Holocene
(Apr 30, 2012 - 14:35) | Sasha2001 wrote: I'm beginning to suspect that many of the new crop of indie-rock performers sing falsetto because they lack balls. That's right, I think modern music has been invaded by a bunch of eunuchs. When I get the proof I'll post it here first.
Um: Everything posted should be appropriate for all ages.
Just teasin'...
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John Prine - Paradise
(Apr 26, 2012 - 14:53) | LongGoneDaddy wrote:
Yeah, everything still exists, EXCEPT the coal shovel! I remember seeing that monstrosity long ago.
There's a sign marking what used to be Paradise, but this is still considered a "town" in Muhlenberg Co as long as someone remembers it; life in small town W'ern KY is still very old school. The strip mines poisoned the water, copperheads ruled the barren ground, and every spring some unfortunate teenager would meet their demise from a drowning in the ever so deep strip pits. Now the area hosts some small trees and lots of deer, among a wide variety of invasive species.
The "justification" of the coal industry is still a major debate in KY, now centered around mountain top removal, but back then it was strip mining. Regardless, nothing will change until we come to terms with our fossil fuel addictions.
Thank you. I've always loved this song.
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Carbon Leaf - The Boxer
(Apr 24, 2012 - 09:32) | arserocket wrote:
Hmmm...makes me want to have a crap, throw my stools around then swim in a bowl of Guinness...anyone care to join me? Yawn. That's just another Tuesday 'round here, mate.
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Carbon Leaf - The War Was In Color
(Apr 12, 2012 - 11:18) | jmsmy wrote: If this song doesn't give you goosebumps - you are already dead. Yep.
The line about burying the dead at sea: my grandfather served on the USS Boise, and it's a certainty he was on one of those details at some point.
What are the songs about our current wars going to sound like? I wonder.
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Gotye - Smoke And Mirrors
(Apr 11, 2012 - 10:06) | I think it's funny that we've been listening to Gotye for several years already, and all of a sudden he's the Next Big Thing.
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Chuck Berry - Nadine
(Apr 03, 2012 - 14:56) | unclehud wrote:
King = Elvis. Nuff said.
Nothing against Elvis, but he stood on the shoulders of giants.
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Eagles - Seven Bridges Road
(Apr 02, 2012 - 13:44) | cc_rider wrote: This song is about an old road in Montgomery Alabama. Used to be a farm road, and the kids would drive out there for, uh, entertainment. The cool kids with cars, anyway. Needless to say I wasn't cool or rich.
The road is (or at least was) 'Old Woodley Road'. The song was written by Steve Young in the late 60's.
I remember that road, this song still evokes the image of that little road, with trees right up to the shoulder, their limbs making a tunnel. And big clumps of spanish moss hanging down. Beautiful during the day, slightly creepy at night.
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Long John Baldry - Don't Try To Lay No Boogie Woogie
(Apr 02, 2012 - 07:44) | Boy_Wonder wrote: I second that comment... never ever heard this before, so bless RP
Yes indeed. LJB is one of those names I might have heard somewhere, but didn't know a thing about. Now I'm a fan. That pie-anner player is good enough to make a name for himself someday too...
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Al Stewart - Roads To Moscow
(Mar 28, 2012 - 10:45) | Art_Carnage wrote: Well, this certainly goes on... and on... and on... and on... and... Just be glad you weren't in Moscow...
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Dave Matthews - Gravedigger (acoustic)
(Mar 16, 2012 - 08:16) | Groogrux69 wrote:
What a lame statement. I have been to at least 14 shows in the last 15 years and in every instance I have met a bunch of really cool and mellow folks. Never noticed any disgusting humans.
Fair enough, my friend. My wife and I were nearly trampled by a mob who broke down the barricades around the ticketed seats. At the same show, Dave had to stop and try to calm a situation in the first few rows. Security pulled people out to keep them from being crushed.
I am glad you had a lot of great experiences. I had one very scary one.
Oh yeah: Ozomatli opened for Dave, and they tore the place up! Outstanding shows every time I have seen them. Highly recommended.
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James McMurtry - Safe Side
(Mar 15, 2012 - 08:25) | Bobert_ParkCity wrote: Media loves to dump on Mexico - but for real this song could be about any number of places in the States - virtually any population area, really. Which is what I think he is getting at... That's crazy talk.
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Willis Alan Ramsey - Ballad of Spider John
(Mar 06, 2012 - 11:22) | Randomax wrote:
He went to highschool in San Antonio. I have a friend that went to school with him. As said below, he wrote all these songs in his senior year and has had writer's block since. He has become known as a writer's writer and quite the iconic figure in that world. He is hermiting around in Wimberley, Texas with his wife (a great singer in her own right). He's a neighbor.
There's another great singer/songwriter living there: Susan Gibson. She wrote 'Wide Open Spaces', and The Dixie Chicks have sent her a LOT of money for it. I saw her recently at the dedication of an AA meeting place, she is a great musician, writer and performer.
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Elton John - Indian Sunset
(Mar 06, 2012 - 08:54) | linden wrote: I like early Elton/Bernie as much as the next person, but man is this song silly. I know people who aren't from the U.S. can't be expected to have an in-depth knowledge of American history, but would Elton and Bernie mix together the Irish, English and Welsh in the same song like they're all the same? Sheesh.
Sure, it's a mess, fact-wise. Have you listened to 'Tumbleweed Connection'? Same mish-mash of historical nonsense. Bernie writes lyrics, not historical treatises. Bernie writes from his emotions, and facts often get lost in the shuffle. Worse, Elton has been known to throw out lyrics that don't fit, muddying the water further still. Just enjoy it (or not) for what it is, don't try to analyze too much.
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Joe Ely - You're Workin' For the Man
(Mar 05, 2012 - 12:59) | Byronape wrote:
I suppose its semantics, but I don't know if this could be considered Country and Western. Southern Rock maybe, Rockabilly? Perhaps a country/rock hybrid...
Labels are for cans, baby.
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The Monkees - Daydream Believer
(Mar 02, 2012 - 08:11) | calypsus_1 wrote:
The pop-rock band The Monkees have almost forgotten past here, not befitting the role had in the service of music in the 60's and 70's, the popularity and originality (for its time). At one time, were the U.S. ambassadors of music all over the world. Its popularity has continued until today, which certainly will not happen with many bands (fashion) that, nowadays, here are a lot of "bells", but, compared for his time, with the Monkees, are minor . From my records of the Monkees, I remember the themes: "Last Train to Clarksville", "I'm A Believer" "Pleasant Valley Sunday", "Daydream Believer".
This in connection with the disappearance, today, at age 66, their frontman David Thomas "Davy" Jones, r.i.p. I've made a point to stop and listen to some of their songs being posted. It's amazing how well these songs have held up over the years. Very nice. Nice enough I'm gonna put 'em on my wish list. The TV show was actually pretty fun too.
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Beth Orton - Pass In Time
(Feb 29, 2012 - 12:30) | passsion8 wrote: Clearly these songs comments aren't monitored.
No, they are not. And that's a good thing.
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Beth Orton - Pass In Time
(Feb 29, 2012 - 12:26) | Bumped, from four-ish years ago:
cc_rider wrote:I love Beth Orton. Saw her at ACL Fest one year, she was wonderful. Maybe, just maybe, she's out of tune on purpose? Discordant, even? She don't exactly sing feel-good tunes, so out-of-tune may be the POINT. Ever listen to Hank Williams? Sometimes he sounds more like a wounded animal than a human. On purpose. 'Art' ain't always about 'beauty'. c.
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Justin Townes Earle - Harlem River Blues
(Feb 29, 2012 - 07:56) | Cynaera wrote: First time hearing this, but holy wow. Kid's got his dad's storytelling ability and the chops. One more CD to add to my collection...
Yeah, I just love his style. Hints of Johnny Cash, but with his own style. Smoother than his Dad, but not artificial or over-produced. Can't wait to hear how he develops.
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Patty Griffin - Burgundy Shoes
(Feb 22, 2012 - 07:58) | ssg wrote: Wherever you go whatever you do
I'll be right here wearing burgundy shoes.
Mine aren't quite burgundy, but the angels want to wear them.
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Patty Griffin - Burgundy Shoes
(Feb 22, 2012 - 07:56) | jules44 wrote:
And then, try to listen to Patty Griffin's "Goodbye" which is about Jeff Buckley...good god, it gets me every time!
Oh yeah, no matter how many times I've heard it, that song just crushes me. So beautiful and perfect and sad. Just like Jeff, I guess.
Thanks Jules.
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Feb 21, 2012 - 13:27) | vandal wrote: I like the the bois d'arc fence post reference. . .
I have no idea what you mean...
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Feb 21, 2012 - 13:25) | markw wrote:
Actually, the characters in this song, except for the singer, are all Okies. Lake Eufala is in Oklahoma, to be sure. But that's a fine point. There really isn't that much difference between the rural cultures of Texas and Oklahoma.
I have relatives on both sides of the Red River. Some of the lyrics make me think Mr. McMurtry was sittin' in my great-uncle's yard when he wrote it.
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The Smiths - Bigmouth Strikes Again
(Feb 17, 2012 - 14:54) | fredriley wrote:It's debatable and uncertain, at least going by his Wikipedia entry. With his narcissism and egotism, though, I suspect that the only person he really fancies is himself.
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Doc Watson & David Grisman - Summertime
(Feb 17, 2012 - 08:06) | forge wrote: Heard the first chords and thought it was gonna be Leon Redbone. This is nice too however!
I like Leon Redbone, but his act is just that: an act. Mssrs. Watson and Grisman are the real deal through and through.
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James Taylor - Copperline
(Feb 10, 2012 - 08:45) | CawCat wrote: Is he still living?
Yes he is. Something like 40 years clean now.
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Skatalites - Freedom Sounds
(Feb 07, 2012 - 07:49) | Toke wrote: Is this 'SKA'' or ''BLUE-BEAT'' ????? I believe Blue-Beat was the forerunner of Ska but where the dividing line is reamains a mystery to me....Looking at the Album cover if it is of genuine age ..this could well be Blue-Beat.. RSVP.
Interesting. I had never heard of 'Blue-beat'. Gotta learn about it. But I expect, like most genres, there's a whole continuum, and there's no clear dividing line.
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The Kinks - You Really Got Me (live)
(Feb 03, 2012 - 13:00) | Misterfixit wrote:
I was there. It was sweaty, hot, very loud and there were two girls with no bras and enormous tits jumping up and down directly behind me slapping their insouciant mammary glands on my back. The air was thick with the haze of various herbs being smoked, with pipes and splibs being passed hand to hand with absolutely no regard to the anonymous spittle dripping from the ends. And the Enormous Tits kept slapping my back. If you close your eyes like this, you can hear me harmonizing ... Enormous Titties Slapping My Back ...
Heaven...
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Eliza Gilkyson - Dark Side of Town
(Feb 01, 2012 - 12:56) | In addition to Deep Ellum (in Dallas) she mentions Onion Creek, which runs through far-south Austin. Used to have some juke joints hidden away down there. Starting to gentrify a little now though.
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The Kinks - Celluloid Heroes
(Feb 01, 2012 - 08:00) | milleronic wrote: Please stop playing this godawful song!
Some of us really like this song. Note the average ranking.
Just sayin'.
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Lynyrd Skynyrd - The Ballad Of Curtis Loew
(Jan 31, 2012 - 10:09) | h8rhater wrote:
Never sang along to a song with your friends? Maybe you don't have any or perhaps you are clueless.
Um, maybe you don't understand humor.
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Hot Tuna - 99 Year Blues
(Jan 30, 2012 - 07:59) | 2cats wrote: Woo hoo, two Hot Tuna tunes in one day!
You might even call it a Hot Tuna Sandwich.
Okay, maybe not.
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Nick Drake - Northern Sky
(Jan 30, 2012 - 07:34) | Dave_Mack wrote: So nice. Haven't heard this one before.
I don't remember hearing it either, and I think I have the CD! It's going on tonight though. Nice.
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Sam Cooke - A Change is Gonna Come
(Jan 26, 2012 - 13:32) | 10, 10, 10, 10. I should go back and change all my other 10s to 9s. It just doesn't get any better.
Believe it or not, Terence Trent d'Arby did a wonderful cover of this for a PBS (?) special called 'The Promised Land'. Nothing can top Sam Cooke of course, but that version is very, very good.
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Etta James - Dreamer
(Jan 26, 2012 - 12:11) | shellbella wrote:I so love Etta... This makes me sad though..... 
Etta James will live forever through her music, my friend.
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Depeche Mode - Behind the Wheel
(Jan 26, 2012 - 09:18) | MojoJojo wrote:
That is precisely why I listen to your radio station, where you so deftly avoid such a faux pas.
Brutal.
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Khachaturian - Sabre Dance
(Jan 25, 2012 - 15:09) | iTuner wrote:
Why not? Especially right after Perez Prado. Bill likes to keep 'em guessing...
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Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain
(Jan 25, 2012 - 12:43) | LizK wrote: In a rare moment of sanity, yhe Texas Legislature once passed a bill, declaring Mr. Nelson the "King of Texas". And he still is.
Fans of Bob Wills, including Mr. Nelson, might argue that point.
But yeah, Willie is one of those artists who transcends description. Timeless.
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Elton John - Burn Down The Mission
(Jan 25, 2012 - 12:18) | Andy_B wrote: One of the albums I had stolen from me during some obscure party years ago that I have seriously regretted it's absence.
I have re-purchased the CD at least twice. There's a two-disc set that has alternate versions, it's actually pretty cool. At least for hardcore EJ nerds.
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Martha Wainwright - Factory
(Jan 24, 2012 - 11:04) | fredriley wrote: "Shake with the dick, for the giff and the gaff" - wtf?? Best get my ear trumpet out...
Um, yeah.
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Dire Straits - Single Handed Sailor
(Jan 24, 2012 - 07:37) | Last time I heard this, just for fun I went to Wiki and looked up 'Cutty Sark'. Interesting stuff, worth reading if you like history and nautical stuff. At last check the ship suffered a devastating fire while undergoing restoration.
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Guster - Jesus On The Radio
(Jan 20, 2012 - 07:43) | Why have I not become a huge fan yet? This is great. I mean, they had me at the banjo, but this is quite wonderful.
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Elton John - Madman Across The Water
(Jan 18, 2012 - 10:50) | The line 'Is the nightmare black, Or are the windows painted' always reminds me of 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'. The book, that is. The Chief (first person, in the book) thinks something very similar at one point.
Wouldn't surprise me if Bernie borrowed from it.
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Lissie - Games People Play
(Jan 13, 2012 - 10:02) | big_gare wrote: Awesome early 70's rehash! :-)
Exactly. Thought maybe it was Dusty Springfield at first. I like this.
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Joan Armatrading - Baby Blue Eyes
(Jan 12, 2012 - 08:06) | Her playing reminds me of Richie Havens. I can see how some folks don't like that style, but hey, different strokes. I like 'em both.
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The Clash - I Fought The Law
(Jan 11, 2012 - 10:43) | sirdroseph wrote:
I think they were concerned about the message more than anything else because they obviously were not very concerned about musical execution. I am no musician, but I bet that most musicians could play all of the Clash's tunes blindfolded. For that matter all punk songs.
Sure, but wasn't that part and parcel of the punk ethos? The fact that you don't need orchestration (The Moody Blues come to mind), choreography (e.g. disco) or even much musicianship, to make music?
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James McMurtry - Walk Between the Raindrops
(Jan 04, 2012 - 11:26) | Cynaera wrote:I haven't read other comments because I already did that on another McMurtry song, and it depressed me. Instead, I'll just post my thoughts. James McMurtry does some absolutely wonderful stuff. "Level-land" (which reminds me of the wistful/desperate theme of "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" for some inexplicable reason), for one. I think my muse is not in synch with other peoples' muses, because he likes James McMurtry's music and whenever I hear one of McMurtry's songs, I feel compelled to write. When one is trying to make an eventual living at writing, every little bit helps. 
That movie was filmed in Manor (MAY-nor) Texas, not far from Austin. Manor was a common destination/rest stop on our bike rides back in the day. It was funny to see 'our' little town on the big screen, hardly changed for the movie. They did repave the road though, that was very nice for us. The courthouse in the movie is in Lockhart Texas.
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Bloomfield, Kooper, Stills - Harvey's Tune
(Jan 03, 2012 - 08:41) | DaveInVA wrote:
I've never been able to find any longer or alternate versions of this. I uploaded this song ripped from the factory 7.5 ips reel to reel version shown below. One of the few songs I put on the LRC that got insta added. I also have the vinyl and cd version and they are all the same. The way they fade the song out its almost like they recorded it longer but maybe had a problem with the master or the recording itself and faded it down early.
Thank you. This is wonderful.
I just love how RPeeps bring something special to the mix.
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Spoon - The Underdog
(Jan 02, 2012 - 14:39) | I'm pretty sure the trumpet player is the same guy who performed with Poi Dog Pondering back in the day. Sounds exactly the same, and the timeframe fits.
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Johnny Cash - Get Rhythm
(Dec 22, 2011 - 11:02) | toterola wrote: There will never again be the equal of Johnny Cash.
He was the rock that others leaned on, sheltered behind, and broke themselves trying to become. A teacher, a mentor, and a fine man.
Rest easy, old champ.
Stone cold fact. He wasn't perfect, not by a long stretch, but he was true to himself. And to June. The definition of class.
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Lyle Lovett - If I Had a Boat
(Dec 21, 2011 - 10:08) | WonderLizard wrote:Nagging thought: if you put Lyle Lovett, Peter Himmelman, and Jesse Winchester behind a curtain and had them each sing, would anyone, besides themselves, be able to tell the difference? This is what you get when I try thinking on a Sunday night... 
Not sure about Peter's and Jesse's, but I could tell Lyle's voice immediately. Couldn't tell you why, except maybe I've been listening to (and enjoying) Lyle's music for ages.
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Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros - Coma Girl
(Dec 19, 2011 - 14:31) | ScottFromWyoming wrote:Yes, the nonsense song Mairzy Doats has those lyrics. Why I brought it up, I'm not sure. If I can blame Bruce Springsteen, then great. - Mairzy doats and dozy doats and liddle lamzy divey
- A kiddley divey too, wouldn't you?
My sister took a tap dancing class and I heard that song about 40 times a day for a year.
That explains the tics and tremors...
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Patty Griffin - One Big Love
(Dec 19, 2011 - 14:19) | ScottN wrote: Yes, I agree. Lots of better PG songs from which to choose.
bump:
For Patty Griffin, it's merely okay. Which means it towers over 99% of what passes for popular music these days. We say this is ho-hum because, compared with her other work, it is. But her other work is so incredible, so 'stop what you're doing and just listen' amazing, this suffers by comparison.
Can you tell I'm a fan of Ms. Griffin?
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Stevie Wonder - Higher Ground
(Dec 16, 2011 - 13:35) | TerryS wrote:Romeo, you must wear out a ton of shoe leather, or perhaps it's barefeet and rotating glitterball?
So you DO know him...
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Bonnie Raitt - Love Me Like A Man
(Dec 15, 2011 - 11:37) | mrdak wrote:Yeah girl...... the Dixie Chicks do this pretty darn good too.
Sure, I like them broads too, but Bonnie Raitt was kickin' it out both pants legs before the Chicks were gleams in their daddy's eyes. She paid her dues on the blues circuit when women just didn't DO that sort of thing. Along with Janis, she opened the door, hell, they kicked it off the hinges, for all the rocking, bluesy women who've come along since.
Bonnie is an original. An artist true to her calling. Oh hey, she ain't such a bad guitar player neither.
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Patty Griffin - Change
(Dec 13, 2011 - 14:44) | cc_rider wrote:
Oh yeah, one more thing: she can rock your face clean off.
Bump
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Big Mama Thornton - Hound Dog
(Dec 13, 2011 - 09:43) | Clark_Novato wrote: Great rendition. First time I heard it. This is what I love about RP.
Maybe the best. I think Lieber and Stoller wrote it with her in mind. Everybody else is a pale imitation.
Get it? Pale? Elvis was white.
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Joni Mitchell - Both Sides Now
(Dec 12, 2011 - 07:54) | mread wrote:
Whatever. Judy Collins' version was definitely great pop music, but Joni's is art. For example, Joni's chords on her oddly-tuned guitar give the piece depth that is lost in other versions (not just Judy's) that stick to chords with straight tuning.
Absolutely agree. Judy Collins is a fine singer, but Joni imbues this song, HER song, with a depth Judy Collins lacks.
Apparently some of Joni's oddball tunings result from her childhood bout with polio. It affected some of her dexterity, and she adjusted to it with some unique techniques. That's just what I've read, can't vouch for the veracity.
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Yo-Yo Ma & Friends - Here and Heaven
(Dec 09, 2011 - 13:35) | I heard an interview with them on NPR recently. They sounded like a bunch of goofballs, it was great. Apparently they play sitting very close together, practically touching. At one point, Mr. Ma stuck his bow in somebody's ear while they were playing, just to throw 'em off their game. Nobody missed a beat, of course. They trade licks back and forth constantly too, following each other off into flights of fancy. Incredible musicians, and absolutely 100% unpretentious about it. Amazing.
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John Lee Hooker - Boogie Chillen
(Dec 09, 2011 - 13:26) | Sasha2001 wrote:Periodically I feel the pull to chime in with a WTF comment about song ratings so here goes: Desmond Dekker's all-time classic "Israelites" rates a full point lower than a run-of-the-mill John Lee Hooker tune. I'm not saying Hooker isn't great, but is it possible that some voters on RP rate artists like Hooker highly so that others will take their musical tastes more seriously when looking at their ratings list? Ratings posers, you're on notice. There's no shame in being honest. Everybody already knows how much you like Spandau Ballet and how little you like The Decembrists.
But seriously, trying to attach some rhyme or reason to the song ratings is an exercise in futility. It's only there for fun anyway. Bill doesn't use the ratings to build playlists. 'Cause if he did, RP would the 'All Talking Heads and Decemberists, All The Time' station.
Kidding.
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Boy & Bear - Lordy May
(Dec 08, 2011 - 10:41) | lathyris wrote: Not Fleet Foxes? Not even the vocalist from Fleet Foxes? You have to be kidding me.
My thought exactly. I like FF, and this is not bad either, but DANG it sounds like the same guy.
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Derek and the Dominoes - Key To The Highway
(Dec 08, 2011 - 10:38) | I like Derek and Co. just fine, don't get me wrong. But it just does not sound like 'the blues' to me. Not the real blues, I mean. Bill Broonzy, Little Walter, BB King, and others somehow give it something EC does not have. I have no idea what that 'something' is.
What's weird is, I hear that 'something' in SRV's work, but not EC's. I know SRV's style was to play just the tiniest bit behind the beat: it's not apparent unless you listen for it specifically. But I don't know if that's it. No matter. This version is still pretty dang good.
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Elton John - Where To Now St. Peter
(Dec 07, 2011 - 07:34) | Cranked up in the 'phones. Work is just gonna have to wait.
edit: and when I get home tonight I'm cranking this album up in the workshop.
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Hem - Reservoir
(Dec 06, 2011 - 07:56) | Cynaera wrote:Thank you for the background information! I really am starting to love Hem's music - it suits me when I'm feeling hostile and unreasonable... Brings me back to earth and calms me down. 
What's wrong with feeling hostile and unreasonable?
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Earth Wind & Fire - Shining Star
(Dec 01, 2011 - 07:38) | ScottFromWyoming wrote: 5-year-old Charlie: "Is that the Muppets?"
Me: No.
Charlie. Yes. It is.
EWF and the Muppets, big difference. One was a group of cartoonishly dressed characters...
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Marc Cohn - Walking In Memphis
(Nov 30, 2011 - 07:50) | Okay. Marc Cohn can do 'pop'. But he clearly loves the rhythm and soul of Memphis and New Orleans, even though he cannot (and shouldn't try to) duplicate the unique sounds of those locales. So he does the best he can to write songs about those places. No, he ain't Carl Perkins or Professor Longhair, that's obvious. But he loves the spirit of those places, where music is infused into every brick.
With that in mind, I like his songs about maybe the two greatest music cities in the U.S. No offense to Detroit, Minneapolis, SF Bay, Muscle Shoals, The Delta, Lubbock, or even Austin...
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Richie Havens - Here Comes The Sun
(Nov 23, 2011 - 09:04) | Cynaera wrote:I'd be perfecly okay with hearing ALL versions of this song ( except maybe William Shatner's...) I love what Havens did with this - his fervent passion, his total commitment to the words and music.... It's just wonderful and magical, what it does to me when I hear this song. I think I'ma go out and plant a tree, or maybe climb one. Rescue a dragonfly. Cuddle a kitten. Smell a rose. Richie Havens gentles me.
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Ennio Morricone - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
(Nov 23, 2011 - 08:14) | Bleyfusz wrote:
Wallach totally outplays him. Eastwood does what he would until today: he plays Clint Eastwood.
And on this, he does a pretty good job.
No surprise there. Eli Wallach is one of the best actors who's ever graced a stage. And he's still performing.
You can just hear the casting meeting: 'A Russian Jew is gonna play a Mexican bandit? Right, that'll be believable.'
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Joan Armatrading - Love and Affection
(Nov 22, 2011 - 11:22) | Does anyone out there have Two Nice Girls' cover of 'Sweet Jane/Love and Affection'? If so would you upload it? Of course it's not Joan, but it's an outstanding homage to her (and Lou).
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King Crimson - Fallen Angel
(Nov 22, 2011 - 09:43) | Dig.
Funny, I am making a set of windchimes for a current member of KC. I need to upload some of his stuff, lots of different collaborations.
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John Martyn - Bless The Weather
(Nov 21, 2011 - 08:02) | Dang. Every time I hear John Martyn (and I've only ever heard him here), I always think: "Wow, this is really great. Is it Stephen Stills? Sorta sounds like him, but not. Better." Then I look, and say "Duh. John Martyn. Of course. Wow, this is really great."
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Nov 18, 2011 - 08:33) | Ntropy wrote:
It took quite awhile for this song to grow on me. Now I can't get enough!
I'm pretty sure I'm related to some of the folks he's singing about.
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Patty Griffin - Let Him Fly
(Nov 17, 2011 - 14:29) | stromdal wrote:
I first thought it was Eva Cassidy.
Brilliant, I seem to have underestimated Patty.
You're not the first, probably not the last. Ms. Griffin is an incredible talent, and a force to be reckoned with.
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G-Love - Ma Mere
(Nov 15, 2011 - 14:02) | Nerubo wrote: The name "G-Love" seems to imply some sort of hip-hop or at least techno musician, not a folk singer. Time for a name change perhaps? Next you're going to be telling me that Michele Shocked is going to sing a song about Alaska or somesuch - based on the name, she clearly plays punk.
The name of a band doesn't always relate to their sound. 10,000 Maniacs, Moody Blues, Death Cab for Cutie, Toad the Wet Sprocket, you get the idea.
G-Love is very much into hip hop. But he is not limited to a single genre, obviously.
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Katzenjammer - A Bar in Amsterdam
(Nov 15, 2011 - 07:55) | Decoy wrote: sounds like squirrel nut zippers and gogol bordello got together and hired a bunch of female singers.
I'm good with that.
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The Sandals - Theme from Endless Summer
(Nov 15, 2011 - 07:52) | jpfueler wrote: I like that when they retraced the trip not too long ago, one of the African villages now has a bunch of the residents surfing...when they went there for the film the locals thought they were nuts at first.
Uh...
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Smiths - Well I Wonder
(Nov 03, 2011 - 08:09) | fredriley wrote: So, a fine songwriter, but an egotistic sanctimonious git who you sure wouldn't want to be stuck in a lift with.
Describes more than a few singers and songwriters. And actors, artists, writers, directors...
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The Derek Trucks Band - This Sky
(Nov 03, 2011 - 08:06) | citizenkeith wrote: Starting to get very sick of this song. I really liked it the first 100 times I heard it. :)
Funny, 'cause I never get tired of hearing it. Even after the first 100 times.
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Elton John - Indian Sunset
(Oct 31, 2011 - 12:39) | I caught myself singing this in my head this weekend. And Bill plays it on Monday. Coincidence?
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Ben Folds - Fred Jones Part 2
(Oct 28, 2011 - 15:12) | handyrae wrote: Wow! Is he the king of sad and depressing songs?
I don't know about 'king', but he's right up there.
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Specials - Ghost Town
(Oct 28, 2011 - 14:01) | Proclivities wrote:
I didn't think they even allowed trombone players into Texas; I figured there's some kind of trombone-detector at the Louisiana border. Great song.
When Bob Wills went to play at the Opry, they almost refused to let him take the stage. Why? Horns. Bob had the temerity to bring 'gasp' a horn section to the home of Country music.
The rest, as they say, is history. To this day, Bob Wills is still The King.
"What kind of music? We've got both kinds: Country AND Western."
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Lyle Lovett - The Road To Ensenada
(Oct 28, 2011 - 12:58) | I can understand how Mr. Lovett ain't everyone's cuppa tea, but it's hard to find fault with this song. Everything about it just falls into place. Great writing, his voice is spot-on, the production is understated but not too spare. An outstanding bit of craft.
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Cab Calloway - Minnie The Moocher
(Oct 28, 2011 - 09:21) | k_trout wrote: It is a great song. I was just struck how on this small rock, a civilization was opening their eyes and ears to new possibilities and at the same point in time, brutes were trying to exterminate those possibilities. Just a thought.
Thank you Fishie, nicely said.
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A Perfect Circle - A Stranger
(Oct 26, 2011 - 07:37) | sirdroseph wrote:Everyone I know has always loved Tool, quite frankly I never got them. This is like Tool on valium. 
Maybe that's why I like it.
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Marvin Gaye - Got To Give It Up
(Oct 25, 2011 - 07:55) | rabbi_phil wrote:
you mean like: wilson pickett,jackie wilson,the temptations,stevie wonder,diana ross and the supremes,smokey robinson and the miracles,4 tops,martha reeves,j.j,barnes,george clinton and parliament,BOOTSY,bill haley, del shannon,5th dimension,bob seger,ted nugent ,kid rock,grand funk,mitch ryder,THE MC5,white stripes,and thousands more. i guess if you don't count them you could be right..... .oops oops,i forgot a couple: tim tam and the turn ons,alice cooper,iggy pop,the stooges,was not was,?and the mysterians,rare earth,brownsville station,the romantics,marshall crenshaw,commander cody,the mutants,the new order,the screws.
Show off.
(Thanks for setting the record straight! Get it, record? Like an LP? I'm so funny, I slay me.)
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Michelle Shocked - Black Widow
(Oct 17, 2011 - 08:33) | On_The_Beach wrote:
Christ, if I had a nickel for every time I heard a hammered dulcimer . . .
You'd have about $.85...
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - The Sky Is Crying
(Oct 17, 2011 - 08:20) | WonderLizard wrote: Several years ago I got the sheet music/tablature to one of Stevie Ray's songs—I forget which—and after struggling with it for a very long time, I understood why Stevie Ray was Stevie Ray, and the rest of us poor slobs were not. A humbling experience.
SRV did not read music, so whoever transcribed that sheet music had one hell of a time.
Stevie just felt the music. It flowed out of him somehow. Transcendent.
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Patty Griffin - Mary
(Oct 06, 2011 - 07:50) | grungepuppy wrote: As a recovering Catholic I'm never happy to hear anything overtly religious. 45 minutes ago RP played Daniel Lanois's "The Maker" which rubbed me the wrong way. That being said, I can't help but love this song. It must be Patty's haunting voice. To me the song is an ode to overlooked women, mothers, wives, etc., everywhere. Maybe it helps that I'm fairly familiar with some of Patty's other music and generally you can't find a religious overtone to it.
Thank you. Nicely said.
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Otis Redding - These Arms of Mine
(Sep 30, 2011 - 12:14) | 2cats wrote: This is so good for the ears.
'Tuma?
Jes' funnin' ya.
Otis Redding could sing a phone book, and the audience would be in tears. So perfect.
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Ben Harper - Number With No Name
(Sep 30, 2011 - 09:16) | gypsyman wrote: Bynyrd Skynyrd
I'm okay with that characterization, although L.S. had some borderline-barrelhouse piano licks, and four lead guitars.
But hey, this is from a guy who still loves to hear 'Freebird'. I know, I know.
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Stevie Wonder - You Haven't Done Nothin'
(Sep 29, 2011 - 12:52) | daedalus wrote: I'm one of those for whom this hasn't aged at all!
Still as relevant as ever, and stands up musically with pride.
Yes indeed.
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Poi Dog Pondering - Bury Me Deep
(Sep 28, 2011 - 09:55) | james_of_tucson wrote:
I did not know that. When I knew them, they were an Austin upstart.
We used to go see them at Fitzgerald's in Houston. Stage full of musicians, floor full of people. Good times.
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Bill Withers - Lean on Me
(Sep 27, 2011 - 10:43) | Cynaera wrote: If it ain't broke, don't fix it. The original is the best - all other versions of this song just leave me cold, but I'll happily listen to this one. Thanks, RP.
There is no other voice like Bill's. Perfect.
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The Be Good Tanyas - Rain and Snow
(Sep 26, 2011 - 07:15) | Frazey Ford has a new-ish album out, it's quite good. Slightly (but only slightly) less twangy than BGTs. Make of that what you wish.
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Chet Atkins - Jam Man
(Sep 23, 2011 - 12:44) | HazzeSwede wrote: Clear & Crisp
Love the guitar on the cover.
Nothing like a hollow-body. Sweet.
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William Shatner - Common People
(Sep 23, 2011 - 12:13) | GuiltyFeat wrote: Verging on genius.
That's been said of Bill more than once.
Shatner? Goldsmith? Does it matter?
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Jeff Buckley - Last Goodbye
(Sep 19, 2011 - 09:48) | GuiltyFeat wrote: Perfection preserved in amber.
"You gave me more to live for, more than you'll ever know."
Indeed.
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye
(Sep 16, 2011 - 07:34) | Webfoot wrote:
But the sentiment also transends any one person and goes straight to the heart of human experience. At least for me it does.
Absolutely agree. Anyone, anywhere, who has suffered a loss, particularly a tragic one, can relate to the heartbreak so clearly voiced in this song.
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Southern Culture on the Skids - The Wet Spot
(Sep 14, 2011 - 11:15) | TheLoneIguana wrote:
It's hard to do surf guitar and not sound a little like DD.
Mr. Dale would say HE is the ONLY person who plays 'real' surf guitar. Ego? What ego?
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Scuttle Buttin'
(Sep 14, 2011 - 08:13) | Randomax wrote:Spent years at Fitzgerald's in Houston being around SRV before the HUGE fame hit. Back in those days we'd have to help him on stage sometimes (Pre sober days)...but he still never missed a lick, even high. We all knew just before Texas Flood came out that we were looking at some of the last times he'd play Fitz's. We even had semi-going-away parties (any excuse for a partay, eh?)...then it happened just as predicted. Our best buddy the sound man at Fitz's, James Buralge (still buddies to this day), agreed to be his soundman on tour. One day they were playing that hoppin' beer joint and the next they were in Germany opening for David Bowie. Miss you soooo much Stevie.
I loved that place. Saw Poi Dog there several times, also Stick People, lots of 'great unknowns'.
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Scuttle Buttin'
(Sep 14, 2011 - 08:12) | Some purists argue SRV was just 'lots of notes without any soul'. E'erybody's entitled to their opinion, so hey. But this tune, this tune really is a ton of notes! Why d'ya think it's called 'Scuttlebuttin'? Stevie is up there 'cutting heads', and nobody, NOBODY could do it better. He is showin' off here, that's no secret. I contend he's showin' off with soul too, but hey.
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Guadalcanal Diary - Trail of Tears
(Sep 14, 2011 - 07:51) | Seahunt wrote: I saw these guys with some other bands and Fishbone headlining. Wild show!
Loved Fishbone back in the day. I bet that was a great show.
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Mark Knopfler - So Far From The Clyde
(Sep 14, 2011 - 07:42) | unclehud wrote: xtalman wrote:Dad was in the Navy for 4 years and I remember he was sad when he found out that the two ships he served on were scraped. I think he figured they were but still....
When I realized the submarine I served aboard ('78 to '82) was cut up for scrap, it put me in a funk for days. She was my home for four years. She was a good ship, took us to strange places, and helped create many, many memories. Yeah, we've discussed it here before, why does a ship, or even a boat, elicit such strong emotional ties? I think it's for exactly the reasons you mention.
Thank you for your service.
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Dave Matthews - Gravedigger (acoustic)
(Sep 08, 2011 - 08:11) | drife wrote:
Richard Thompson smokes DM and DMB any ol' day of the week.
Sure, of course he does. But I still like 'em both, a lot.
Plenty of folks can't stand DM, he was painfully overplayed for a long time, and his concert fans are among the most disgusting mob of humans I've ever seen. But I still like his music, in spite of those drawbacks.
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Seconds Flat - Dance On My Grave
(Sep 06, 2011 - 11:26) | Cynaera wrote:
I agree! And what a fun song, despite the topic. I'm getting cremated when I die, but I still hope someone will turn the music up loud and dance on my ashes. To this song.
I'm with you. Whoever goes first, the other better do some dancin'... Deal?
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Eilen Jewell - Shakin' All Over
(Aug 30, 2011 - 08:07) | robh wrote:
Spot on! It just sounds too "clean". A bit like an aunt singing it at a family do.
An aunt with a great voice, sure. But Wanda Jackson has the bad-girl cred, and that patented 'quiver' in her voice, to put her performance head and shoulders above all the rest.
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English Beat - Save It for Later
(Aug 29, 2011 - 14:50) | Sasha2001 wrote: Thank you for aspiring to sound like this Vampire Weekend. Now go back to parent's apartments on the Upper East Side and fill out your applications for grad school, cause you don't want to be a has-been act touring clubs and colleges trying to recapture the glory of your Tommy Hilfiger Ad salad days. Your breeding won't allow for it.
Most. Clueless. Song. Comment. Ever.
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Elton John - Indian Sunset
(Aug 29, 2011 - 09:49) | Cynaera wrote: I can't analyze Elton John/Bernie Taupin albums, because each has its own charm and its own shame. I try to take each one on its own merits, but I confess, I have my favorites. I love "Rock of the Westies" because of the absolute dominance of Davey Johnstone's guitar work and the backing vocals. I love "Caribou" because of "Ticking." I love "Honky Chateau" because of the mood the entire album evokes in me (like the runes album by Zep - I can't single out one song; I have to listen to the whole thing.)
EJ had a bad stretch of music, but even at his worst, he was better than most artists, if only for his incredible piano playing and his determination. I've got nothing bad to say about him. (Oh, okay - "Island Girl," "Candle in the Wind," "Bennie and the Jets," and "Crocodile Rock," but with a track record as long and impressive as his, I think he can be excused for a few clunkers.)
Yep.
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Elton John - Indian Sunset
(Aug 29, 2011 - 09:48) | BigTimber wrote: This song was played a while back but I just now am able to write my comment. I found it interesting that much of the imagery seemed like a montage of stereotypes strung together (for instance, not every Native American lived in a tipi, those of the northwest and northeast used wood to make longhouses and some in the southwest used stone to build elaborate structures). I was wondering if there was any sort of backlash to this. It is cool that he was giving a shout out to different tribes from across what is now the US with various languages, cultures, and histories...I suppose it would have just made more sense to me if he had stuck with one tribe located in one particular location and focused on their unique history.
Now, I don't want to cause any bad vibes because I actually really dig EJ and I realize what he did here was a tribute of sorts, just was wondering what others thought about this. Thanks!
Oh, the whole lyric is straight from Bernie Taupin, a country boy from Nowheresville, England. Bernie is famously fascinated by the American West and the Civil War, but he is very short on historical accuracy. He can be forgiven: what do us Yanks know about Agincourt or Hastings, for example. He was just writing music, not researching actual events. Don't read too much into his lyrics, that way lies madness.
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Nickel Creek - Smoothie Song
(Aug 29, 2011 - 08:45) | Businessgypsy wrote: horstman wrote:These guys couldn't hold a candle to the Dregs. I'm a Dregs fan, but I think you're comparing apples to rotary valves. Way different instrumentation, style, approach and genre. The only common denominators are the presence of strings and some fast picking. Chris Thile, the freaky good mandolin player and soul of the group, has several new projects going. Stay tuned.
Yes, Chris Thile is amazing. I heard him recently on 'Prairie Home', and I couldn't believe his playing. Incredible. And it's not just a zillion notes, it's got style too. Phenomenal.
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James McMurtry - Levelland (live)
(Aug 29, 2011 - 07:52) | crockydile wrote:I grew up in Midland, Texas..had some relatives in Levelland. Damn, I relate to this. It hurts. 
Yeah, James McMurtry knows how to wring the essence from a place. He doesn't pull any punches either.
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Violent Femmes - Gone Daddy Gone
(Aug 25, 2011 - 13:40) | Deadwing wrote:
Seriously? What does Country Death Song have in common with Planet Claire? The Femmes talk about throwing their unwanted children down wells and the 52s sing about purple dogs. Those bands are nothing alike. Well, I guess they are white people playing music There is that. 
I'm with you, 'wing. The only thing I can figure, it's that sorta twangy guitar, and the somewhat fractious sound of the whole affair. Other than that, I don't see any connection either.
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Neko Case - At Last
(Aug 25, 2011 - 10:20) | KurtfromLaQuinta wrote:
All day long...
If 'tuma broke into Bill's studio, it would be 'All Neko, All The Time'.
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Neil Young - Helpless
(Aug 24, 2011 - 13:12) | Having just heard a dear, dear member of the RP community passed away, tragically, this song is all the more poignant. We all feel helpless, trying to make sense of a senseless loss.
Peace, Melissa.
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Elton John - I've Seen That Movie Too
(Aug 24, 2011 - 09:32) | Cynaera wrote:
I disagree. Elton changed directions several times, and sometimes, those roads ended up as dead-ends. Still, I love his music. I love "Caribou" and "Captain Fantastic" and "Rock of the Westies." I love his first works, from his self-titled album to the re-released "Empty Sky" (which I have on vinyl, so the version of "Skyline Pigeon" that's available "out there" is NOT the original. If you're a purist, this will matter. If you're not, then you'll settle for whatever you can get.
It's funny, one of my fave EJ albums is one hardly anyone ever mentions: Blue Moves. It's not in the same league as 'Goodbye' or 'Honky Chateau', but it has some great stuff too.
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Elton John - I've Seen That Movie Too
(Aug 24, 2011 - 09:31) | crockydile wrote:Okay, that seals it! I'm going out to get this. My kids need to hear this. Amazing.
The opening songs, 'Funeral' and 'Love Lies' never fail to grab me. I have to listen to this album about once a month. It has a few misses, certainly, but the hits are incredible.
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Eric Burdon & War - Spill the Wine
(Aug 23, 2011 - 14:35) | Art_Carnage wrote: An awesome song - when you're eleven years old. But it doesn't take long before it starts to really get annoying.
This overfed, long-haired leaping gnome still digs it.
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Patty Griffin - Stay on the Ride
(Aug 22, 2011 - 13:42) | errantpenny wrote: This, to me, is a weird mix of great vocals, a great blues groove, and utterly banal lyrics. It's like an SNL skit where everyday situations are set to a soundtrack of down and dirty blues: Oh, the printer's out of toner! That's what I said! The printer's out of toner!
I don't think the lyrics are banal at all. You really think it's literally about a bus ride? I've listened to it enough times to think it's about much more than that. But hey, I've been wrong before.
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Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode
(Aug 22, 2011 - 13:32) | Art_Carnage wrote: I just don't see this type of thing catching on.
Yeah, it won't last. I give it a month, tops.
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Madrugada - Majesty (Live)
(Aug 22, 2011 - 08:32) | bartverheijen wrote: We have to invent a word that can describe the beauty of this song...
Uh... Majestic?
Sorry, feeling snarky this am. Love this song. Live version is superior.
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Passenger - Night Vision Binoculars
(Aug 17, 2011 - 11:10) | blotto wrote: Never listened to this too closely until now. Those are good and creepy lyrics for such a happy sounding tune.
It is definitely creepy. And fantastic. Creeptastic?
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John Prine - Paradise
(Aug 17, 2011 - 10:27) | Gotta be my fave JP song. Turns out it's a true story, every place existed. Until Peabody Coal destroyed it, at least.
Mr. Prine was persona non grata in KY back when this song came out. Not so much now though.
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The Decemberists - Down By The Water
(Aug 17, 2011 - 09:00) | I can understand why this band might drive some people bat$hit: whiny voice(s), New Folk wanna-bes, all the reasons listed below. But I really like 'em. So there.
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RJD2 - 1976
(Aug 11, 2011 - 13:32) | Love that fat trombone line.
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Hot Tuna - 99 Year Blues
(Aug 10, 2011 - 10:19) | martinc wrote: One of them der guitars is out of tune.
Dammit Jorma! Try to act like a professional musician for once, willya?
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Mississippi John Hurt - Salty Dog Blues
(Aug 10, 2011 - 10:14) | fredriley wrote: This might be my dirty mind, but is 'salty dog' another blues euphemism for, erm, a sweaty male appendage? Blues is so chock-full of sexual euphemisms (jelly roll, honky-tonk, hoochie-coochie, etc) it's like a Carry On film at times, though with the levels of censorship in those puritan days euphemism was pretty much mandatory. Great song.
What? A blues song with barely-concealed overtones of sexuality? Shocked. I am shocked.
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Alison Krauss & Union Station - Lie Awake
(Aug 09, 2011 - 13:02) | appst89 wrote:A supergroup that just keeps raising the bar.
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Chris Rea - Road to Hell
(Aug 09, 2011 - 11:41) | PopKombo wrote: Love the Road to Hell
Glad you do, because we're on it...
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The Derek Trucks Band - This Sky
(Aug 08, 2011 - 14:45) | kingart wrote: I had to upgrade it. That guitar break is exquisite.
Mr. Trucks is one of those players who is identifiable in just a couple notes. Love that smooth, perfectly distinctive sound. Wonderful.
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Neko Case - I'm An Animal
(Aug 08, 2011 - 08:01) | romeotuma wrote:
I agree with that... 42 times a day would be fine with me...
All Neko, all the time!
She's an animal? Rowr...
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Mose Allison - The Seventh Son
(Aug 05, 2011 - 07:39) | bodhi wrote: Am I missing something? I've never got this guy: he can't sing, he can't swing, he symbolises everything that nerdy white guys shouldn't try to do with jazz... (and I'm a white guy too)
Interesting. I guess Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Van Morrison, Leon Russell, and a whole slew of other professional musicians think otherwise.
Just sayin'.
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Mose Allison - The Seventh Son
(Aug 05, 2011 - 07:35) | akousa wrote: Mose Allison stands with Willie Dixon as one of the finest blues composers ever. Sorry that so many of you don't get it. Kinda sad, actually.
Mose is 83 years old, still performing occasionally. Most folks have never heard of him, much less know he had a big influence on a great number of musicians. Wiki has a good summary.
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Aaron Copland - Fanfare for the Common Man
(Aug 04, 2011 - 12:03) | Sorcha wrote: This piece should play on the last minute of the last day of Earth. Epic does not even cover it. I have never listened to this without getting tears and goosebumps....
Won't be long now...
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Patty Griffin - Mary
(Aug 04, 2011 - 11:39) | trekhead wrote: Wow, I was just reading the latest Beanie Journal when this came on. Man.
Oh man, I remember. Heartbreaking, every breath. This song gives me chills all by itself, but at that time it was just crushing.
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Son Volt - Tear Stained Eye
(Aug 03, 2011 - 08:09) | jadewahoo wrote: Wretched.
Caterwauling is caterwauling, no matter how you gussie it up, and this song is nothing but caterwauling.
But oh, what wonderful caterwauling. Love it.
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Emmylou Harris - The Road
(Aug 01, 2011 - 13:46) | toterola wrote:Emmylou Harris singing about Gram Parsons. It just don't get any better.
Yep.
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Caro Emerald - That Man
(Aug 01, 2011 - 11:28) | 8-1/2 Souvenirs. Asylum Street Spankers. White Ghost Shivers. If you dig this vibe, those are worth investigating as well.
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Southern Culture On the Skids - Funnel of Love
(Aug 01, 2011 - 11:22) | rabguy wrote: Wanda Jackson, recently inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recorded it in 1961, its psychedelic style a bit ahead of its time IMHO. The guitar was played by none other than that Hee Haw pickin' and grinnin' master, and fellow Oklahoman, Roy Clark. I have met her and had the honor of playing drums for her 65th birthday concert in 2001. I saw her again recently when she was made part of an exhibit on Oklahoma Rock and Roll at the Oklahoma History Center. She can still rock and is a great lady. I also had the good fortune to meet Mary Huff of SCOTS, she is great also. I met her, in of all places, an Oklahoma City Laundrymat a few years ago and got to talk to her for quite a while and I even mentioned to her how her singing reminded me a little of Wanda Jackson, so maybe, indirectly I had something to do with them doing it(yeah right, haha). One great song and two great ladies.
Great backstory, thank you!
Wanda Jackson was recently on Dave Letterman with Jack White, and they tore up 'Shakin' All Over'. Nice to see a legend still showin' the young'uns how it's done.
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Hank Williams - Settin' The Woods On Fire
(Aug 01, 2011 - 10:26) | toterola wrote:
The Skyline Club in Austin, TX on December 19, 1952. God rest him. 
My ex in-laws are from Hank's part of Alabama, around Greenville. Even Hank knew it was a good place to be FROM.
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Tonic - Lemon Parade
(Aug 01, 2011 - 09:13) | I had this song stuck in my head the other day. Coulda been worse. Still love this song.
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Rosanne Cash - Burn Down This Town
(Jul 28, 2011 - 09:03) | llyon wrote: Have always loved Roseanne. When this song was playing I had to click to see who it was because it was so good. Said to myself "But, of course" when I saw it was her. Still consistent after all these years.
She really has not received the props she should, probably because her Dad is such an icon, everyone pales by comparison. But she's got some chops, maybe not like Johnny, but she does alright. I like the idea, and the execution, of a more recent album, I think it's called 'The List'. From amazon:
ROSANNE CASH
When I was 18, I was on the road with my dad. One day, we were sitting in the tour bus, talking about songs, and he mentioned a song, and I said, “I don’t know that one.” He mentioned another one, and I said, “I don’t know that one, either.” Then he started to get alarmed, so he spent the rest of the day making a list on a legal pad, and at the top he put “100 Essential Country Songs.” And he handed it to me and he said, “This is your education.”
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John Prine and Bonnie Raitt - Angel from Montgomery
(Jul 27, 2011 - 12:56) | murraybula wrote: Agg I missed this song. I love John Prine and haven't him yet on RP, even on a duet such as this.
Every once in awhile Bill plays 'Sam Stone'. My all-time fave JP tune is 'Muhlenberg County', but he has so many great songs. One of the best songwriters ever.
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Neko Case - Deep Red Bells
(Jul 27, 2011 - 12:47) | gekkosan wrote:Not sure why, I get the strange impression that you seem to like this song... 
I know. 'tuma can be so obtuse sometimes. I'm still not sure how he feels about Neko...
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Neko Case - Things That Scare Me
(Jul 26, 2011 - 07:56) | Sjaaks wrote:
Well, if that was my Mercury, i wouldn't like her standing on the hood and swinging a sword like that. You can stand and swing your sword 5 meters away from that car as much as you like but you don't stand on a Mercury... ... ...in my very humble opinion of course... 
You make a good point, but it is HER car after all. Not to mention the hood of that thing is thick as armor plate, she's not particularly zaftig, AND she's barefoot so as not to scratch the paint. No damage done, and it's a great pic that probably helped sell more CDs, which in turn allows her to restore more Mercurys!
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Patty Griffin - Little God
(Jul 25, 2011 - 07:47) | FrankMc wrote: I think it may be one of those songs you have to surrender to rather than just listen at.
Well said. I agree entirely.
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Sinéad O'Connor - You Made Me The Thief Of Your Heart
(Jul 21, 2011 - 22:45) | vandal wrote:Ummm. . . dude. . . I don't think you're supposed to take a handful of Xanax and chase them with a tall glass of Hornitos. . . calypsus_1: 
What? Where I'm from we have a word for that.
Tuesday.
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Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain
(Jul 21, 2011 - 21:34) | ortallcowgirl wrote: When he dies, we will lose all of the best of the outlaw country. Willie will still make me smile. Nothing sounds quite like him.......
I respectfully beg to differ. Willie, Waylon, Kris, Jerry Jeff, Townes, Stevie, Gary P, Billy Joe... okay, you get the idea. They will live forever. In a hundred years, people will hear this song and say 'damn, that's incredible.'
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Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain
(Jul 21, 2011 - 21:29) | Cynaera wrote:
Bringing this up, because the song is so closely associated with Mr. Nelson that people assume he wrote it. Thanks, cc_rider.
And I still love this song.
This album. I was at summer camp, I was maybe 14. Our cabin counselor, who was probably about 18, played this album EVERY SINGLE MORNING at about 7:30 or whatever God-forsaken time we were supposed to get up. Church camp, of course. We all swore revenge on that rotten sumbitch for subjecting us to that caterwauling. (we didn't actually know the word 'caterwauling' at the time. It just sounded to us like somebody was torturing a small animal.)
Soon as I got home from camp? I HAD to have that album. The whole album is a tour de force: a 'concept album', unheard of in the world of Nashville C&W (who'd roundly rejected Mr. Nelson shortly before he went back to Texas to make RHS). One of the high-water marks of the 'album' format, where the whole disc tells a story. Outstanding.
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Neko Case - Dirty Knife
(Jul 21, 2011 - 21:11) | Cynaera wrote: Actually, I think you've touched on something here. I hadn't really considered it, but there are some pretty powerful women out there making music in various genrés. I haven't heard anything substantial from the male gender lately (well, Marc Broussard can bring me to my feet and make me dance) - seems most of the guys in recent decades are just girls with a little more testosterone and a set of wrinklies.
I better shut up now.
Stevie Ray brought it full force. But there was nothing in his being to indicate he was 'most of the guys'. There's precious little evidence to indicate he was actually from this planet, but hey.
Jeff Buckley was a raw nerve, exposed for all the world to see. Not sure where that puts him on your scale though.
But you make a good point: where is the next, oh I don't know, Frank Sinatra? Where is the next testosterone-infused ladies man? Like Bob Mitchum, or Deano? Is the question even relevant?
I LOVE the powerful women making music today, and yesterday too. Neko and Patty spring to mind (lots of play here), but go back to Billie, Willie Mae, Ella, Eartha, Mahalia, Josephine...
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Neko Case - Dirty Knife
(Jul 21, 2011 - 21:01) | We should give 'tuma a few minutes alone..
Can't say I blame him though...
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Widespread Panic - Hope In A Hopeless World
(Jul 21, 2011 - 20:51) | Dave_Mack wrote: I like them, and not for any jams that I've heard them do. I like their sound, the lead singer's voice, and the songs themselves. That said, I'd really like to see them and listen in on their live jams. I am a musician, and I do like jamming, though it certainly can get aimless and be more fun for the players than the listeners.
Agreed. I love to see musicians get lost in the music, but sometimes it can get to be a bit much.
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Texas Flood
(Jul 21, 2011 - 14:10) | slartibart_O wrote: We need a good Texas Flood down here.
Amen brother. We need a small hurricane in the Gulf.
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Patty Griffin - Change
(Jul 21, 2011 - 11:51) | james_of_tucson wrote:
I will go as far as to say she is a much stronger performing artist than her recordings capture.
I agree. It's almost like she has to hold it back when she's recording. Her live performances are emotionally exhausting. In a good way.
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Muddy Waters - Howling Wolf
(Jul 21, 2011 - 09:51) | Balthazar wrote:
I would add Big Bill Broonzy, who is just outstanding guitarist and singer.
Not sure why his name is not mentioned more often. He had a birthday recently, the local station did a special about him. Quite amazing, easily up there with those other legends.
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The Cinematic Orchestra - To Build A Home
(Jul 20, 2011 - 12:21) | On_The_Beach wrote: Coldplay meets Jeff Buckley?
First time I heard it, I really thought it was Jeff. Not just the voice, the whole thing. Totally channeling Jeff Buckley. Not a bad thing in my opinion.
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The Band - The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down
(Jul 20, 2011 - 12:02) | Curley24 wrote: By far the worst song by the worst band in the history of rock 'n roll. I have never understood the reason we MUST like this band; after all, EVERY pop music critic in every newspaper or magazine would go on and on in love with these guys. I've never met a person who likes the group or any of their songs.
I say this as someone who loves all kinds of music. I have over 3,000 records, a ton of CDs, was a music major in college (for a while) and spend a few dollars at iTunes every week.
Interesting. Since the average rating is over '8', your opinion, while certainly valid, seems to have very few supporters. Just sayin'.
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Neko Case - Star Witness
(Jul 19, 2011 - 08:10) | rabbi_phil wrote: Yikes,another redhead to send marriage proposals to. Another mailbox full of restraining orders. oh well.
Patty Griffin won't return YOUR calls either? Glad I'm not the only one, I thought she was snubbing me.
Neko... drool... and that's just for the voice...
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Guadalcanal Diary - Trail of Tears
(Jul 13, 2011 - 14:02) | Cynaera wrote: VERY much liking this song, although the lyrics are sad...
With a name like 'Guadalcanal Diary', it's GOT to be sad...
What a song.
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Mark Knopfler - So Far From The Clyde
(Jul 13, 2011 - 13:57) | james_of_tucson wrote: Most people hear this song literally. Does anyone else hear this as an allegory on Britain's industrial decline?
I think that's a fair interpretation, since the Empire was built on the Navy and merchant marine. But I think it was written to be taken literally, with all the very specific references to the galley, stanchions, hatches and whatnot. The literal image is searing enough, isn't it? I think of the ship my grandfather served on, it suffered pretty severe battle damage and limped into port, only to be repaired and sent back into the fray. Men fought and died on that ship, and even with eleven battle stars, it ended up in the scrapyard just like the ship in this song. Sad.
See 'USS Boise' and Captain 'Mike' Moran. My father is named after the captain.
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Jeff Buckley - Hallelujah
(Jul 12, 2011 - 10:18) | peyotecoyote wrote:
maybe, someday, they will all sing it together :)(:
Don't kill off Rufus and Leonard so quickly...
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Cowboy Junkies - Murder, Tonight, in the Trailer Park
(Jul 07, 2011 - 07:20) | Marr wrote: This is the CJ's in their prime.
I think this is their second-best album. Trinity Sessions is still tops though. When it came out, it was unlike anything else, and still stands on its merits.
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Elvis Costello - Peace, Love and Understanding
(Jul 01, 2011 - 15:26) | kaybee wrote:
Sadly, I have to agree with you - I too am a baby boomer and I am ashamed of my generation and that of my siblings who were teenagers in the 70's. However a lot of our children's generation and the young ones coming up now do give me hope.
As for the song, I agree with one other listener below - I really like Elvis Costello, like the sentiment of this song too. I just wish he'd stop sounding like he's suffering from a massive brain injury when he sings the chorus! ...It desperately needs another cover version - I'm thinking something a capella and slow sung by someone with a really good voice, but I can't think of who I'd want to do it. Any suggestions out there?
I bet you could talk Nick Lowe into making a version like that...
j/k...
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John Lee Hooker & Canned Heat - Let's Make It
(Jun 20, 2011 - 09:24) | fredriley wrote:
He sure was a 'horndog', as I believe youse across the Pond say. Every other song of his seems to be about sex, suitably sanitised with slang (jellyroll, boogie, etc). Maybe all the one-night stands he got generated his "Ah woke up this morning" blues ;)
One of my friends, now deceased, was a, uh, 'medicine-man' back in the day. Once he went to a downtown hotel to make a delivery, and walked in on John Lee Hooker. In bed, with two barely-legal blondes. Mr. Hooker acted as though it was just another afternoon, which, for him, apparently it was.
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Billy Bragg - Accident Waiting to Happen
(Jun 10, 2011 - 13:55) | katiediddler wrote:Underplayed and underexposed, like the man himself, who seems understated. Understand?
I don't know, 'understated' is not a word I associate with Mr. Bragg. Not in a bad way, mind you. I like his work and I LOVE what he did with Wilco on the 'Mermaid Avenue' series.
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Stevie Wonder - Higher Ground
(Jun 10, 2011 - 09:10) | Jelani wrote: Well, according to the album cover, now I know why he's blind; a big stony looking poker came out of the sky and poked him in the eye.(s)
I never knew that.
No silly. He's blind because he uses his eyes to SHOOT giant stone laser beams. Please try to keep up.
Actually it's because the hospital gave him oxygen when he was a baby. Weird huh?
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Chicago - Listen
(Jun 09, 2011 - 13:54) | Alexandra wrote: You know, EVERY TIME a Chicago song is played, BillG has to talk about how wimpy the later version of the band got. But I liked a lot of their later material, as well as the early stuff. I know he's the owner of RP and all, but that is an awfully strong opinion to utter as the ultimate musical truth.
Just sayin....
You make a valid point, but the fact is, Bill's opinion is shared by a great number of people. Their later material never reached the promise of their first album. Sure there is some fine material there, but nothing like the early stuff.
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The Decemberists - Rox In The Box
(Jun 09, 2011 - 09:05) | Baby_M wrote: Gotta give 'em props for sneaking "Raggle-Taggle Gypsy" in there.
Since it's about mining, and a lot of Appalachian (mining) folks have Scottish roots, it fits right in, culturally. Not everyone's cuppa, musically, but hey, different strokes.
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Velvet Underground - There She Goes Again
(Jun 09, 2011 - 08:07) | Giselle62 wrote:
the sound quality is worse than other albums recorded during this period, something about having been recorded in mono. someone else might know about it. It does sound a bit crappy.
That was the whole point, my friend. VU had the low-tech DIY ethos of punk rock decades before it became a movement.
It was partly a reaction to highly produced music like Phil Spector's 'Wall of Sound' style (also in mono, IIRC), and the polished voices of 'professional' singers.
But it sure ain't everyone's cuppa tea, I'll grant you that.
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Steve Earle - Copperhead Road
(Jun 08, 2011 - 14:58) | Cynaera wrote:
Ohhhh - do share! Townes Van Zandt... A rather eclectic but vital force in the music world. Pleaseohplease - share what you have/know. I'll pay you. (Well, I don't have much money, but if I can spare a few bucks after the bills are paid, they're yours.)
I just posted a vid over at 'Youtube Videos' of Justin Townes Earle playing on David Letterman. Pretty great stuff.
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Joe Ely - Boxcars
(Jun 07, 2011 - 08:27) | mvanderford60 wrote: Godlike live - David Grissom on guitar, Bobby Keys on sax - best shows ever. Written by Butch Hancock - but Joe does it right.
"There ain't gonna be no radial tires runnin down the streets of gold . . ."
Definitely Church of Joe
They have been playing each others' songs so long, they admit sometimes they forget who wrote them. Not sure if that's true or not, but seeing The Flatlanders play is a magical experience.
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Neko Case & Her Boyfriends - Whip the Blankets
(Jun 07, 2011 - 07:45) | romeotuma wrote:
She makes even country music sound cool... love it...
Man, Hank Williams had more cool than 90% of Nashville does today. Bob Wills (technically 'Western', not 'Country') was so cool he could bring HORNS to the Opry. Waylon and Willie, Merle, on and on.
Point is, there is 'Nashville' country and there is country that, well, doesn't suck. Labels are for cans, not music.
Speaking of cans... drool...
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Nick Lowe - Peace, Love And Understanding
(Jun 06, 2011 - 07:56) | For me this is what I've heard called a 'driveway song'. The first time I heard Mr. Lowe performing this, it was a version recorded live at the KGSR studios in Austin. I was on the way home from work, and pulled up to the house about 1/3 of the way through the song. I sat and listened to the entire thing right there in the car, blown away by the intensity. A 'driveway' song.
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Everything But The Girl - Get Me
(Jun 06, 2011 - 07:19) | Cynaera wrote:This whole CD is really fine...
Yes indeed. Some of it is a little dated, but maybe only because I practically wore the pits off this CD when it came out.
That voice is just so right. Not perfect, but right.
edit: Dammit, this is REALLY not the first song I needed to hear this morning. I love it, sure, but the timing couldn't be much worse.
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Joni Mitchell - Cold Blue Steel And Sweet Fire
(Jun 03, 2011 - 09:21) | Randomax wrote:
It refers to the horrible, visious cycle of heroin addiction. You can "come now" into 'her' arms because we all know you will sooner or later.
Damn. After reading the lyrics, there is no doubt that's what it's about. Paints a pathetic scene.
Made more poignant by the recent death of Gil Scott Heron, felled by drug addiction. Damn.
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Dave Matthews Band - Shake Me Like A Monkey
(Jun 03, 2011 - 07:53) | petrfas wrote: They put on a great show, but I was appalled by the behavior of the audience. Gettin' groovy and cutting loose is cool, but moshing and creating a mob scene? No. People got hurt, had to be rescued by security. Disgusting.
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Chicago - Listen
(Jun 02, 2011 - 11:43) | On_The_Beach wrote: Chicago, before they started producing the musical equivalent of pancake syrup.
Yes indeed. How the mighty fell, so far and so fast.
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John Prine - Fish and Whistle
(Jun 02, 2011 - 10:01) | Businessgypsy wrote: Music aside, John Prine is one of the finest reflective poets of of our age.
Roger Miller is up there too.
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Santana - Song Of The Wind
(Jun 02, 2011 - 07:55) | kingart wrote: Hands down, IMO Carlos Santana is one of the greatest musicians of my lifetime.
...
I agree, he not only has unique musical talent, but also walks the walk of a righteous man.
While their musical genres are very different, Willie Nelson shares a lot of the same qualities. It's nice to know there are still some class acts around. Would that the new crop learns from their betters...
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Les McCann & Eddie Harris - Compared To What
(May 27, 2011 - 08:37) | careyz wrote:Great song. Great music. Great lyrics. Play it again...
Seahunt wrote:9->10
Interesting....
The President, he's got his war
Folks don't know just what it's for
Nobody gives us rhyme or reason
Have one doubt, they call it treason
We're chicken-feathers, all without one nut. God damn it!
Tryin' to make it real - compared to what? (Sock it to me)
Same as it ever was, Same as it ever was.
Damn shame we can't make any progress, huh?
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Dengue Fever - Kiss Of The Bufo Alvarius
(May 27, 2011 - 08:17) | Every time I hear some cool surf-spy music I haven't heard before, it's D.F. Dig it.
also see:
man or AstroMan?
The Aqua Velvets
The Sir Finks
The Sandblasters
Laika and the Cosmonauts
Pollo Del Mar
The Mermen
...
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Johnny Cash - Hurt
(May 27, 2011 - 08:11) | Cynaera wrote:Well-said.  I still can't listen to this song without crying. Why do all the good artists have to die, while the crappy ones seem to be eternal?
Waylon Jennings (one of the Crickets) and Willie Nelson (20 yo when Hank died) carried their legacies with them.
I think what you really mean is, there are just a few truly timeless artists, but an endless supply of crappy ones. The great ones are just 'always there', while the crappy ones come and go ad infinitum.
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K's Choice - Not An Addict
(May 27, 2011 - 08:02) | greyfin10 wrote: Always think this is Amy Ray of Indigo Girls when I hear them... then the drums start to pound and I remember K's Choice.
Yeah, the voice has a similar rasp. I like 'em both. I'd like to hear Amy and Emily rock like this too.
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Hank Williams - Ramblin Man
(May 25, 2011 - 09:37) | ScottD wrote: If country music was more like this I might listen to it more. I do enjoy Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Hank III.
You might also check out Joe Ely, Billy Joe Shaver, Guy Clark, Townes Van Zandt. Among many others.
I know what you mean about 'country' music though. It's that overproduced Nashville sound I can't stand.
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Justin Townes Earle - Harlem River Blues
(May 24, 2011 - 09:13) | GawgaBoy wrote: saw the video of him performing this on Letterman... the studio version is too pretty, there was a grittiness in the live performance that took this song to a whole new level. Good song though.... I like it.
This young man brings it, full tilt. I saw that vid of him on Dave, he really has commanding presence. Of course, with the last name of 'Earle' and middle named after Townes Van Zandt, he's got the pedigree. Great to hear some gutsy new stuff from the Earle clan.
edit: I posted the Letterman clip over in Youtube-Music Videos. I think that version is better than this one. Maybe it's Paul's keyboard that makes the difference...
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War - Low Rider
(May 23, 2011 - 13:05) | Jeff09 wrote: Just made me laugh...Chuck Berry "Nadine" ending segues to first cowbell whacks for "Low Rider" ...
Sometimes Bill hits one out of the park...
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Buena Vista Social Club - Candela
(May 23, 2011 - 09:46) | WonderLizard wrote: Ibrahim Ferrer—rest in peace—had more soul in his little finger than all the American Idol contestants since the show's beginning—combined.
Could be said of pretty much any one of the Club members. Such incredible musicians every one.
Funniest line I remember from the movie/documentary: They're driving around with Compay Segundo (sp?), in a huge ancient convertible, trying to find the place where the actual BVSC was. Compay says "we've gotta find one of the old people, they'll know where it was." At the time, Senor Segundo was over 90 years old! So funny, he didn't even consider the possibility HE was one of the 'old people'.
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Michelle Shocked - When I Grow Up
(May 20, 2011 - 09:10) | paulmack wrote:Always loved this song - if I remember right this is a hidden track and a departure from the rest of the album - more consistently like "Anchorage" to oversimplify but also give you an idea of the contrast between this and her more typical folky stuff of that time. Cool little guitar and percussion parts in my opinion....
Love this whole album.
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Dire Straits - Brothers In Arms
(May 20, 2011 - 07:54) | unclehud wrote: US Navy, 1976-1982, submarines, Atlantic and Pacific.
War is always ugly. People die; minds, bodies, families, and the environment are wrecked; deep hatreds and psychotic predjudices are nurtured; and billions and billions of dollars/euros/pesos/whatever are NOT spent on hospitals, schools, police and fire departments, roads and bridges, libraries and parks, ...
... makes me ask those who favor military response: "When did you serve? Are you sending your kids to serve?"
Thank you.
My grandfather served on the USS Boise, which received eleven battle stars during WW II. I just wish we had made more progress, as a species, since then.
Peace.
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Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain
(May 19, 2011 - 14:13) | Cynaera wrote: I love Willie Nelson. He's one of the last of a dying breed - he's a rebel, a poet, an orator, a singer, a songwriter, an independent thinker, a fighter, a patriot, a protester, a spokesman for the farming community... I could go on, but I don't know very many people alive today who wear that many hats with as much class and integrity as Willie Nelson.
And this song always makes me cry because of its simplicity and eloquence.
Yes indeed.
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10 CC - Dreadlock Holiday
(May 19, 2011 - 10:17) | fredriley wrote:
Hit the mute button for blessed relief. It could be worse - instead of this clichéd number, we could be hearing the super-clichéd "I'm not in love".
I heard back in my youth that 10cc was the volume of the average ejaculate from a male orgasm. If so, that would make at least one interesting fact about the band.
Also: Lovin' Spoonful, Pearl Jam...
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye
(May 17, 2011 - 14:43) | dkeifer wrote: I heard this song for the first time over 4 years ago and it still makes me cry....it's that voice.....
Yes it is the voice, but it also makes me cry because it's about Jeff Buckley. Jeff Buckley's 'Grace' is still one of my all-time favorite albums, even though I simply cannot listen to it very often, it is so emotionally wrenching to me. Thinking about him, the way he died so tragically, the way his father died so tragically.
But yes, Patty Griffin's voice absolutely sends me to another place.
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye
(May 17, 2011 - 14:38) | RobRyan wrote: She is such an amazing talent. The emotion she is able to communicate is incredible. With one exception (One Big Love, in my opinion a "throwaway song") I invariably stop what I'm doing to listen.
Yep.
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John Lee Hooker/ Miles Davis/ Taj Mahal - End Credits
(May 17, 2011 - 07:59) | the_equalizer wrote: Amazing! I did not know these three great ones had colaborated. Great boogie!
My thought exactly. I was listening to the end of it, and thinking "okay, it's got a John Lee beat, but the trumpet and jazzy sound? I must've missed Taj's input though. I wanna hear this again!
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Pipeline
(May 16, 2011 - 13:36) | GuiltyFeat wrote: Does nothing for me. Without compelling lyrics, this is just the opening credits to a hi-octane thriller from 1988.
Um, you do know that was the whole point of surf music, right?
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Cat Stevens - Bitterblue
(May 16, 2011 - 11:35) | michaelgmitchell wrote: Holy smokes! Looks like this was added recently. Yet another reason why I'm a big fan of RP. Classic Cat.
Yes indeed. The first years I listened, I even started to wonder why we never heard any Cat, since Bill plays Joni, Van, Pheobe (RIP), et al. This really does sound wonderful.
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Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros - Get Down Moses
(May 16, 2011 - 09:57) | Cynaera wrote:
I love this music. Fun, wicked, snarky, totally uninterested in what anyone thinks... It's the music I will take down with me when the world is about to explode and I'm tucked into my bomb-shelter for the long haul.
Just a few more days...
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Ani DiFranco - Fuel
(May 12, 2011 - 13:21) | Ms. DiFranco does not have to answer to anyone. Couldn't get signed? Started her own label. Whether you like her or not (I happen to like her), Ani doesn't care: she doesn't cater to anyone, she just does what she does and maybe some people dig it.
I dig it.
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Patty Griffin - Long Ride Home
(May 11, 2011 - 09:02) | It's kind of funny, being here in Austin where Patty Griffin has gotten plenty of radio play over the years, and seeing so many comments like "who is this, why I have I never heard this before?" We've loved her for years.
I've seen her play a couple times, not full concerts but benefits and the like, and every time she just destroys the place. Such an emotional powerhouse. So good to hear her on RP, and to see all the great comments.
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Chris Smither - I Am The Ride
(May 11, 2011 - 08:45) | CoolbeaN wrote: Good lyrics, good finger picking... Wish the vocals were better.
Not a dang thing wrong with the vocals. They suit the song perfectly.
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Yardbirds - Heart Full Of Soul
(May 10, 2011 - 08:16) | nerakdon wrote: I saw Nina Simone doing "Feelings" on You Tube, and practically spitting she was so mad at herself for having written it. I'm guessing the guy who wrote this one felt something similar, once the infatuation died down.
Wiki indicates she did not write that song. Why she ever performed it is another matter. But hey, we all have our little indiscretions...
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Dick Dale - Miserlou
(May 09, 2011 - 07:47) | sirdroseph wrote: Love the surfin tunes however you should play more obscure surfin tunes.
Yes indeed:
The Aqua Velvets
The Mermen
man or Astro Man?
Laika and the Cosmonauts
The Sandblasters
Pollo Del Mar
Wheelie McSidewalk and the Ball Bearings
The Sir Finks
et al...
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Neil Young - War of Man
(May 06, 2011 - 07:53) | Hannio wrote: When Neil is good, he is very, very good.
And when he is bad, he's horrid. Trans, anyone?
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Dave Matthews - Gravedigger (acoustic)
(May 05, 2011 - 09:05) | stellablue wrote: Love him or hate him, Dave lays it on the line with emotion in concert. I first heard this song a couple of years ago - Dave did in the encore set - just Dave, his guitar, and a single spotlight - pure!
Maybe that's why I like him so much. Happy or sad, his music seems loaded with emotion. Maybe that's why a lot of people can't stand him, too.
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Blind Faith - Well All Right
(May 04, 2011 - 14:57) | WonderLizard wrote: It's amazing how many artists/groups include Holly songs in their repertoires—fertile ground that:
Beatles - Words of Love
Stones - Not Fade Away
Blondie - Gonna Love You Too
Blind Faith - Well All Right
...and many, many more.
Shows how influential Buddy Holly really was. His songs are kind of like the foundation everything else is built on. It's great to hear the endless reworkings of his songs.
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The Decemberists - This Is Why We Fight
(May 04, 2011 - 12:59) | burdell wrote: Sometimes we need to be reminded of this:
When we die
We will die with our arms unbound
And this is why
This is why we fight
There's a similar old saying, something like "It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees". Not everyone would agree, but that's okay too.
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Johnny Cash - Hurt
(May 04, 2011 - 12:57) | Repost from 'robco1' because he says it so well:
"Trent wrote this as a man trying to shake addiction looking back on all those he cared about who he hurt with his personal chaos. Johnny obviously could relate to that theme having also gone through that trial, but I think for him the song took on another more profound dimension. His version conveys the incredible anguish of a man at the end of his life who has just lost the love of his life and now in the shattered remains of his soul knows the true meaning of the word "hurt." I think the reason Trent expressed that this was now Johnny's song was because he recognized that Johnny had taken his words and had made something that profoundly expresses the core of what it means to love and be mortal.
May it be a very, very long time before you fully understand this particular human truth."
Amen.
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Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros - Johnny Appleseed
(May 04, 2011 - 08:18) | hallogallo wrote:
Love this song!
Joe Strummer kicks ass.
FACT
On NPR recently there was a long story about the real 'Johnny Appleseed'. Very interesting. He was a real person who planted thousands of apple trees. FACT.
Two facts in one day! Dig.
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Specials - Ghost Town
(May 03, 2011 - 08:00) | The trombone solo alone is worth the price of admission.
"What's the difference between a trombone player hit by a truck in the middle of the road, and a country-western singer hit by a truck in the middle of the road?
...
The country-western singer might have been on the way to a gig."
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Neil Young - Alabama
(Apr 28, 2011 - 13:40) | SuzG wrote:
I didn't see it that way at all. Besides, I have more faith in RP than that. Given the horrific events in the last 24 hours, I don't believe that RP would make light. Look at the songs leading up to it.
I listened to the lyrics with new ears and heard it in a new context. Some sad days ahead of them there.
Yeah. I grew up there, still know folks there, and I didn't think it was a slam. Even though Neil doesn't cast the state in a favorable light, to say the least.
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Hot Tuna - Water Song
(Apr 28, 2011 - 08:09) | Cynaera wrote:This has such a good groove to it - I could listen for hours and not get tired of it! 
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ZZ Top - Just Got Paid
(Apr 27, 2011 - 08:27) | ddog wrote: One of the better ZZ Top songs that you seldom hear, in my opinion. Thanks Bill!
You don't live in Texas, do you?
Billy, Frank and Dusty are de riguer 'round these parts. Now if Bill would just play 'Manic Mechanic' once in awhile...
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Richie Havens - We Both Know
(Apr 27, 2011 - 08:20) | Mr. Havens has a distinctive style, but it can tend to make his songs sound alike. But with a style like that, I do not mind one bit. First couple notes and I think 'Ahhh, Richie Havens'. Wonderful.
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Duane Eddy - Rebel Rouser
(Apr 26, 2011 - 07:57) | ubuntourist wrote: I'm a sucker for instrumental rock. Even ancient instrumental rock.
Duane Eddy, Link Wray, Dick Dale...
begat
The Mermen, Aqua Velvets, The Neptuna, Pollo Del Mar...
begat
Man Or Astroman?, Laika and the Cosmonauts, Los Straitjackets, The Sandblasters...
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Eilen Jewell - Shakin' All Over
(Apr 26, 2011 - 07:54) | Wanda Jackson (with Jack White) does this on her new album. She's nearly 80 and still bringin' it.
Great tune: that guitar lick is iconic. Eilen Jewell does a great job, but after seeing Ms. Jackson rip into it, it seems like Ms. Jewell's version is too clean.
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The Cure - Out Of This World
(Apr 25, 2011 - 14:15) | bindi wrote:sound like less of a whiny girl than usual! 
Why bring Manbird into this?
Sorry. It's just too easy.
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Elton John - Indian Sunset
(Apr 25, 2011 - 09:24) | CoolbeaN wrote: I've never liked elton john... Here is annother example why.
I have always liked Elton John. Here is another example why.
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Elton John - Indian Sunset
(Apr 25, 2011 - 09:20) | jgirl63 wrote: Classic Elton John. The seventies were unsurpassed for EjJ/BT team.
"Candle in the Wind" doesn't hold a candle to his early work.
At the time of its release, CitW was pretty amazing, a wonderful tribute to a tragic figure. Reworking it for Diana was a bit crass, in my opinion.
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Johnny Cash - Ring of Fire
(Apr 21, 2011 - 07:35) | oilydwarf wrote: love JC but prefer the Social Distortion cover of this song!
SD really did tear into this one: as covers go it is one of the best. Johnny's version has much more of June's influence.
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Mumford & Sons - Little Lion Man
(Apr 20, 2011 - 10:13) | Dog_Ear wrote: I predict we hear "Little God" next (which is good as it can't be purchased)- anyone know how to?)
Check the song comments, there is an RPeep who will send it to you. For the price of a donation to RP.
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Sinead Lohan - To Ramona
(Apr 19, 2011 - 12:59) | nerakdon wrote:The tune also reminds me of "mamas don't let your babies grow up to be cowboys".
3/4 time, similar phrasing. Waltzes tend to sound alike.
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Patty Griffin - Truth No. 2 (w/ Emmylou Harris)
(Apr 19, 2011 - 08:31) | sdn wrote:*sigh* I really can't stand that "we're almost singing in time, but not quite!" sound. 
I've noticed that 'technique' or 'affectation' or whatever you wanna call it, adds a level of depth. Like 3D glasses or something. Stevie Ray Vaughn was famous for playing just the tiniest bit behind the beat, it was practically his signature. I like it. But I can understand how it could make some people cringe.
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James McMurtry - Safe Side
(Apr 18, 2011 - 14:45) | diddelit wrote: I really love Radio Paradise - but I really don't understand why you insist on playing this song??? I don't know if this guy has made some good songs, but this just plains sucks. If your not able to sing in spanish without an accent, don't!
He is singing in Spanish with a TEXAS accent. That's how it sounds around here. I can understand how his voice might grate though.
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James McMurtry - Safe Side
(Apr 18, 2011 - 14:43) | xkolibuul wrote: Listen to enough McMurtry, and you will realize this song is dripping with irony. Brilliant artist.
Oh come on. Mr. McMurtry is the original feel-good singalong artist...
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B.B. King - The Thrill Is Gone
(Apr 18, 2011 - 11:52) | yodasan_magoo wrote: I tried to resist, but the force is just too strong in this one. 9 —> 10
The force is stronger than mortal man...
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Patty Griffin - Stay on the Ride
(Apr 18, 2011 - 08:22) | vandal wrote:
IMHO, Bonnie Raitt should be compared to Patty Griffin, not the other way around.
Ms. Raitt is markedly older than Ms. Griffin. Bonnie blazed some impressive trails for performers like Patty. Give 'em both credit where it's due.
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Fleetwood Mac - Never Going Back Again
(Apr 13, 2011 - 08:46) | unclehud wrote:I don't think I'm a very negative person, but I can't stand this song, because she ruined Fleetwood Mac.
Or did she goad them into making some incredibly heartfelt music? I'm not a fan of hers either, but this album is one of the greatest ever made. Conflict seems to have brought out the best (and worst) in them.
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Jimi Hendrix - All Along The Watchtower
(Apr 07, 2011 - 13:36) | agkagk wrote:
Yes, I did. But at least Johnny had a full life and died of natural causes.
As I compiled that list, I was thinking of the untimely nature of the deaths. The average age of those on that list is about 30.
J Joplin: 27
J Hendrix: 28
J Morrison: 27
J Dean: 24
J Lennon: 40
J Buckley: 31
B Holly
B Beiderbecke
D Allman
H Williams
J Croce ('J' again)
JP Richardson (The Big Bopper) another 'J'
P Cline
SR Vaughn
R Valens
I think the 'J' are just very common names.
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Paul Pena - Jet Airliner
(Apr 07, 2011 - 12:53) | hcaudill wrote: Who knew. This is why I love RP.
Amen. I had no idea this wasn't what's-his-name's song. Mr. Pena saves this song from the trash heap Mr. Miller put it on.
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Big Brother And The Holding Company - Turtle Blues
(Apr 06, 2011 - 12:37) | ddehoyos wrote: a former co worker went to school with Janis in Port Arthur Texas. She always knew she was different. Oh, and you should listen to this one with good headphones. Lots of cool chatter and ambient noise in the background.
When Ms. Joplin was in college at The University of Texas, she was voted 'Ugliest Man on Campus'. Needless to say she didn't have a lot of nice things to say about Texas.
I used to own Kenneth Threadgill's house: Mr. Threadgill owned a restaurant/bar where Janis often played, and apparently she spent quite a lot of time at the Threadgill home (along with all manner of musicians and ne'er do wells).
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Count Basie - Jumpin' at the Woodside
(Apr 06, 2011 - 09:33) | Byronape wrote: One thing that always struck me as odd about this kind of music... I LOVE seeing it live, but I just can't get into recorded versions. I don't know if the live music captures the energy better or if something is lost in the recordings. Maybe I'm just not a huge jazz fan, I don't know. I give this a 6, but I know if I saw it live, I'd call it a godlike 10.
I know what you mean. The live performance of jazz or swing or big band is just so much MORE than a recording. I feel the same way about bluegrass music: love seeing it live, but recorded is just okay.
I think part of it is the interplay between the performers. Jazz and bluegrass both spotlight individual performers through the song: each player gets a turn to showcase their chops. When they really get going, trading licks back and forth, it's really quite amazing.
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Steve Earle - Copperhead Road
(Apr 06, 2011 - 09:07) | Cynaera wrote: Steve Earle has lived and died more times than Keith Richards. He's a wonderful storyteller, and while his voice isn't perfect, his words hit home in the most visceral of ways. This song and "The Revolution Starts Now" are two of my favorite songs by him. He's earned his stripes.
Plus he named his son after Townes Van Zandt. His son is becoming quite a musical force in his own right.
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Patty Griffin - Little God
(Apr 05, 2011 - 11:14) | k_trout wrote: Xeric wrote:This woman can be so good, until she gets carried away, and then she is so, so bad. As, say, here.
Xeric - Try to imagine this song through the eyes of an abused woman
In this case, the woman was abused (musically, commercially, financially) by a record producer. But the sentiment is the same, I agree.
But I'm biased: I could listen to Patty Griffin sing a phone book. And still rate it an 8.
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The Decemberists - All Arise!
(Apr 04, 2011 - 12:17) | fredriley wrote:
No, but their genre of folk-rock, or Nu-nu-folk, will fall out of fashion in a year or two I'm sure, and all the bands in it will return to relative obscurity. I can live with this lot, sort of, but bands like Mumford & Sons and Fleet Foxes (coming on after this number) deserve to return to playing tiny clubs in the hicks, IMO.
Yes, they'll fall out of fashion, only to be replaced in a few years by Nu-nu-nu-folk types. There is nothing new under the sun. Let's just hope that disco carp is well and truly dead.
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Elton John - Rocket Man
(Apr 04, 2011 - 12:14) | socalhol wrote: Love this song! Elton was simply GREAT on SNL as Host & Musical Guest this past weekend.
I thought he did a good job. The 'queen' jokes got a tad old after awhile, but hey. Leon Russell was great too, despite looking more like a statue than human.
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Elton John - Rocket Man
(Apr 04, 2011 - 12:05) | crogers wrote: It's been overplayed on-air for decades, but I still love it and always will - from the gorgeous fingerwork on the acoustic guiter to the soaring synth notes at the end. I still remember getting chills listening to it as a kid, on the floor, in the dark, with my ginormous coconut-half headphones glued to my noggin; bliss. A true classic from The Piano Player.
Exactly.
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The Derek Trucks Band - This Sky
(Apr 04, 2011 - 08:51) | mhiggins wrote: What an album. FM doesn't play real music like this adn its their loss.
No kidding. This is finer 'n frog hair.
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Stevie Wonder - I Wish
(Apr 01, 2011 - 08:31) | beelzebubba wrote: Holy effen crap, Stevie rocks, this album rocks, and I don't even like horns as a rule.
Stevie Wonder rocks, and I love horns as a rule. This is right up there with his very best. Wow.
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Ben E. King - Stand By Me
(Apr 01, 2011 - 08:23) | Johnny_Wave wrote: Prime example of an *excellent* song being overplayed to the point where you instinctively change the channel once it comes on. A true 10 for the first 10 years I've listened to it, but only a 5 at this point.
Sort of funny, I pretty much only give 10s to songs that I NEVER get tired of hearing. Great songs that seem 'overplayed' only get a 9. But I get where you're comin' from.
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Koko Taylor - Let the Good Times Roll
(Mar 30, 2011 - 11:55) | Sloggydog wrote: Nice try buddy but you gotta eat some road to get enough gravel to properly jam this out. Definitely heard better versions.
Utterly nonsensical comment. Your opinion of this version is fair enough, it's just an opinion after all, but Ms. Taylor had gravel to spare, that's a stone cold fact.
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Lynyrd Skynyrd - The Ballad Of Curtis Loew
(Mar 21, 2011 - 14:32) | Bear1492 wrote:
I couldn't say it better.
The first note, I knew what it was. The genesis of the song is sorta interesting too, it's not 100% real life but close.
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The Weepies - Jolene
(Mar 17, 2011 - 07:42) | DaveInVA wrote: This is pretty good considering this is the Weepies.
I'm a sucker for any song with a 'Jolene' in it. Like this a lot.
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The Clash - I Fought The Law
(Mar 14, 2011 - 12:08) | mikewallach wrote:I think it's the best version....Little known fact. First recorded by the Crickets, NOT Bobby Fuller no. I mean it's a mediocre reworking of a song I treasure.
So, did Buddy Holly write it? Would not surprise me, considering how well his songs have held up, 50 years later.
edit: no, it was written by Sonny Curtis of The Crickets.
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Joni Mitchell - Cactus Tree
(Mar 10, 2011 - 14:04) | katehof wrote: So much for my groove... it has been killed. Please prepare me next time, a quickie intro like, "and now were gonna bring down a bit, pull out your bell bottoms and take a seat on the bean bag."
You say that like it's a bad thing...
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Bjork - Oh So Quiet
(Mar 07, 2011 - 16:13) | I like it. Once in awhile.
She's just messing around, having fun. It's Bjork, it's supposed to be over-the-top.
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Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain
(Mar 04, 2011 - 13:45) | msturgis wrote: Best Willie song in existence...gives me chills still.
Turns out Mr. Nelson did NOT write this song. But he sure owns it...
Also from Wiki: "This was the last known song that Elvis Presley sang (at the piano in the rest area of his Racquetball Court located to the rear of Graceland) before his death on August 16, 1977..."
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Elvis Costello - Radio, Radio
(Mar 03, 2011 - 13:53) | Bone wrote: Great track that continues to nag me with the question...
...what is that sound???
Bike tire pump?
Rubber Duckie w/ laryngitis?
Um, that's Elvis Costello.
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Nancy Sinatra - Bang Bang
(Mar 03, 2011 - 10:44) | jagdriver wrote: Definitely a contender for the WTF category.
Sure, but I like it better than that 'Boots' song.
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Elton John - Ticking
(Mar 03, 2011 - 08:00) | Proclivities wrote:
"Targets" is a 1968 Peter Bogdanovich film which featured Boris Karloff, not Vincent Price. The film was loosely based on the 1966 shooting rampage at The University of Texas at Austin, carried out by Charles Whitman.
"Caribou" was a good album, but that is one of the worst covers ever.
My grandfather was there that day, in a bookstore next to campus. He never talked about it.
Interestingly, the incident was the driving force behind the creation of EMS departments. At that time all of the 'ambulances' were owned by hospitals and mortuaries. The emergency response was pretty haphazard.
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Eliza Gilkyson - Angel and Delilah
(Mar 02, 2011 - 12:09) | Saw her a few years ago, opening for Loudon Wainwright III. Actually liked her better than Loudo, but he is definitely an acquired taste anyway. She was amazing as always. She wears her folkie-pinko-hippie-liberal heart on her sleeve, so she's not everyone's cuppa, but hey.
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Leon Russell - Stranger in a Strange Land
(Mar 02, 2011 - 08:29) | Cynaera wrote: Leon isn't known as a "singer" (although I really love his voice - that gravelly-texture with on-key pitch, and then add in the lyrics...) Elton John cited Leon Russell as one of his biggest influences, and I can hear it when I listen to an EJ song. I love them both - talent, lyrics, fearlessness... Oh, geez. I'm rambling. I don't usually ramble, but for some reason, Leon Russell and Elton John make me a blithering idiot.
Pay no attention to that person behind the curtain. She just loves Leon and Elton.
They were on Letterman recently. Their new album is pretty good.
I've always been a huge fan of EJ, and always liked LR but didn't know how influential he's really been. Finding out Mr. Russell mentored Elton John, that's icing on the cake.
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Seconds Flat - Dance On My Grave
(Mar 01, 2011 - 09:06) | HarrO wrote: Wonderful. I want this played at my funeral. 10
Yes indeed.
Another one of my funeral songs is 'Bury Me Deep' by Poi Dog Pondering.
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Sun Kil Moon - Glenn Tipton
(Feb 23, 2011 - 15:01) | derekd wrote: Is this the singer from Red House Painter? Sounds great.
Yes it is. I know his voice is weird, but I like it.
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Patty Griffin - Burgundy Shoes
(Feb 23, 2011 - 14:15) | Cynaera wrote: I have reached the point where I just can't bear to listen to Patty Griffin's tender music - every single song seems to remind me of my long-deceased mom and dad. I love her voice and I love her music, but I must just be getting old and foolish and soft and sentimental... I'll always rate it highly when it comes on, but I'll also mute it because one can only cry so many tears before it hurts like a chest-cold.
I know what you mean. Patty Griffin's music cuts right to the core. I love it, but damn sometimes it's hard to hold it together. Couple of Jeff Buckley's songs do that to me too.
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Patty Griffin - Burgundy Shoes
(Feb 23, 2011 - 14:11) | SinisterDexter wrote: Wow, she sounds a lot more like Shawn Colvin than she does herself.
You should see 'em together.
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Lyle Lovett - Friend Of The Devil
(Feb 23, 2011 - 08:04) | johnjconn wrote: How can such an ugly guy have such a good voice.
Not a MTV star.
His appearance has an unconventional beauty to it. And when he performs, all notions about his looks disappear. He is an outstanding performer and songwriter.
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Elton John - Indian Sunset
(Feb 21, 2011 - 09:03) | Zeke19 wrote: I'm sure that most Native Americans in the mid-late 19th Century could easily relate to Elton John's eclectic shoe fetish and fabulous stage presence.
Well, really it was Bernie who was/is obsessed with the American West and the Civil War.
I remember in Junior High, our music teacher played this for us, three times. We had to write about what it meant and how it made us feel. I went and bought 'Madman' that weekend.
Edit: Damn. Listening to it again, now, it grabs me just as much as it did then.
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Billy Joe Shaver - Live Forever
(Feb 21, 2011 - 08:44) | Billy Joe Shaver is the man. Lived through more heartbreak than one man should suffer. The kid on the cover behind him? That's his son Eddie. Eddie od'ed a few years back, not long after the album came out. Billy Joe nearly quit playing because of it, but he did a gig awhile later, and realized he HAD to go on.
Billy Joe Shaver is one of the grand old masters of Texas songwriting, up there with Townes, Blaze, Joe, Butch, Lyle, Patty, Nanci...
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Michelle Shocked - Come a Long Way
(Feb 18, 2011 - 15:07) | Cynaera wrote: Taking this in context... It made me happy. To discover it was Michelle Shocked was an added kudo. Granted, it's not her usual style, but it works for me. So - to the naysayers, SHUT UP. This is probably just a quirk, and she'll return you to your regularly-scheduled Shock after the obligatory advertisements.
Michelle Shocked steadfastly refuses to stick to one 'style'. It's one reason she has never had much commercial success. I still love 'Short Sharp Shocked', it is such a perfect album. But I like all her stuff, so hey.
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A Perfect Circle - The Noose
(Feb 18, 2011 - 09:11) | scrubbrush wrote: Love this song.
The fact that Maynard is crazy as a bag of ferrets makes it even better
What you got against ferrets?
I dig this song too. And Tool too, although it's not among my usual genres.
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Dick Dale - Miserlou
(Feb 17, 2011 - 08:25) | oldman wrote:
the teen and twenties crowd just looks at me strange
Just sayin'...
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Elton John - I've Seen That Movie Too
(Feb 16, 2011 - 08:32) | This song tells a story, or describes a situation, more specifically than most BT/EJ songs. Bernie's lyrics are not always linear, or even make much sense (see: Grey Seal), but these lyrics are so spot-on, they exactly describe a scene many of us unfortunately have witnessed first-hand.
The production of EJ's early-ish albums is a high-water mark of the craft. Outstanding.
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Jesse Cook - Cancion Triste
(Feb 16, 2011 - 08:06) | rjewyo wrote:una cancion muy delicioso 
I don't have to know Spanish to know that's spot-on.
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Patty Griffin - Truth No. 2 (w/ Emmylou Harris)
(Feb 15, 2011 - 12:05) | divisionlane wrote: 2 great songs from 2 of my faves-I hate to admit but kinda like the Dixie Chicks version a bit better on Truth-
The D.C. version has more edge to it, it's a bit 'angry' somehow. Plus the production is completely different: this sounds like they were sitting in somebody's living room. And I mean that in a good way. Some of the best music comes from folks who would be making music whether they got paid for it or not: they'd be sitting around somebody's living room or porch, if it wasn't a studio.
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Al Green - Love and Happiness
(Feb 15, 2011 - 09:00) | On_The_Beach wrote: Waiting for the falsetto at the end . . . . . . . eeeeeeeeee! (No one can "eeeeee" like Al!)
That's a stone cold fact.
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The Melodians - Rivers of Babylon
(Feb 15, 2011 - 08:21) | shoes wrote:
it's not supposed to be funny.
it's about being an exile, which must be an awful experience, and sadly an experience that many people live through today. Timeless song.
Amen.
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Riviera Paradise
(Feb 11, 2011 - 14:25) | S-curvy wrote: This is my favorite SRV number. Probably because it both clearly reveals his amazing evocative skills, and it falls outside his signature Texas blues-rocker mold. For sure, I'm not criticizing his blues-rocker work even a tiny bit — I'm crazy about it — I just love this exception to the norm.
It is so sad that he's gone.
Favorite Stevie-wise, I go back and forth between this and 'Lenny'. Just so flowing and perfect. Damn.
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Elvis Costello - (I Don't Want to Go to) Chelsea
(Feb 10, 2011 - 12:49) | DaveInVA wrote:Judging by the comments I seem to be in the minority that happens to like this song...
You're in good company Dave. Over here with all the other weirdos...
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Paul Simon - The Obvious Child
(Feb 10, 2011 - 08:38) | The best part of this song is the drum line. Paul's okay and all, but the drum line really works.
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Jump Little Children - Cathedrals
(Feb 10, 2011 - 08:28) | Cynaera wrote:I just love this song. It's melancholy, but it's so evocative and beautiful - and that upright bass... (Okay. I am a slut for upright bass.) This song is not something to listen to if you want to, say, jack up your heart rate and burn calories. It's more geared for a mellow, rainy day with a fire in the fireplace, something cinnamon-y baking in the oven, and everyone tucked in and accounted for. And don't listen to the words, because that will put a whole different slant on the song and change the ambiance.
Yes, that's it exactly. Thanks.
C'mere, let me show you my upright bass...
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Roger Miller - King of The Road
(Feb 09, 2011 - 09:46) | Randomax wrote: didn't he do Dang Me? and that song about an upset tummy?
'Dang Me', 'Chug-a-Lug', 'Do-Wacka-Do', plus 'You Can't Rollerskate in a Buffalo Herd' and many other insightful ditties.
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Vivaldi - The 4 Seasons: Summer
(Feb 08, 2011 - 08:11) | This Is pretty good. If that Tony Vivaldi guy sticks with it, he could be famous someday. But come on, The Four Seasons? Kinda been done already, right? Ol' Tony better hope Frank Valli doesn't hear about this.
What?
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Uncle Tupelo - New Madrid
(Feb 04, 2011 - 14:59) | solamenteuna wrote: Uncle Tupleo sounds a LOT like The Avett Bros...wonder if one didn't influence the other
Since Uncle Tupelo got their start around 1987, I'm thinkin' them Avett boys prolly dug their sound when they was wee lads.
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Hot Tuna - 99 Year Blues
(Feb 02, 2011 - 09:07) | MojoJojo wrote:Makes me want a spicy tuna roll! 
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Mississippi John Hurt - Salty Dog Blues
(Feb 02, 2011 - 09:06) | RCLMusician wrote: I don't wanna be your salty dog. But I DO wanna be the guy who tunes your guitar! Tune your guitar!!! Yikes. Close enough for the blues, I guess.
I can assure you Mr. Hurt had his guitar tuned exactly the way he wanted it. Not everybody's cuppa, sure, but when you become a legend, you can tune your guitar any way you want, too.
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Mazzy Star - I'm Sailin'
(Feb 01, 2011 - 09:12) | I never would have guessed Mazzy Star. Should have known by the voice of course, but the style is so different from what I'm used to from Hope.
I like it.
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Chantays - Pipeline
(Jan 31, 2011 - 07:46) | HazzeSwede wrote: Oh..swell !
Are you ripping on this? Has your enthusiasm ebbed? Or are you riding the wave of admiration for a timeless piece of surf history?
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Ray LaMontagne - You are the Best Thing
(Jan 28, 2011 - 09:59) | jfulton wrote: I'm really surprised to hear the negative comments. I love Ray Lamontagne. I love his voice, his emotion and his songwriting. I guess that's the variety of life, I'm still surprised though, the music on this channel is really good, but I guess that's why they play it for you rather than let you play it.
Agree on all counts.
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Focus - Hocus Pocus
(Jan 28, 2011 - 08:50) | Yodeadodoyodeadodoyodeadodoyodeadodo
yodeadodoyodeadodoyo-bab-baaaaa
Ahhhhhh-aaahhhh-aaaaaa-aaaaAAA!
Ohhhhhh-ooohhh-oooooo-oooOOO! Yodeadodoyodeadodoyodeadodoyodeadodo
yodeadodoyodeadodoyo-bab-baaaaa
Ahhhhhh-aaahhhh-aaaaaa-aaaaAAA!
Ohhhhhh-ooohhh-oooooo-oooOOO! umdub-adaoh-segel-ungucur-ungetu-hungetur-hupreyu
undubea-unpedurl-humpelilly-luptodoro-licktetor-ulumpadero
umbader-lickatine-lupator-lackatera
batickatheplalera
theblumpalumpadera
ho?
ho ho ha haaaa! Yodeadodoyodeadodoyodeadodoyodeadodo
yodeadodoyodeadodoyo-bab-baaaaa
Ahhhhhh-aaahhhh-aaaaaa-aaaaAAA!
Ohhhhhh-ooohhh-oooooo-oooOOO! Bom bom bom bom
Bom bom bom
Bom bom bom bom bom bom bom
Bom bom bom
Bom bom bom
Bom bom bom bom bom bom
Bac bac bac bac bac backaaaaa!
Yeeeeha! ba um um um um um
ba um um um um um
ba oooohhboooobooboboboooo! Yodeadodoyodeadodoyodeadodoyodeadodo
yodeadodoyodeadodoyo-bab-baaaaa
Ahhhhhh-aaahhhh-aaaaaa-aaaaAAA!
Ohhhhhh-ooohhh-oooooo-oooOOO!
Yeaah! Whoooo!
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Patty Griffin - Mary
(Jan 27, 2011 - 12:39) | lattalo wrote: Someday I am going to get to see this woman perform live.
I think she is one the best artists alive today, I just can't believe
she is not more popular. A very remarkable talented artist,
unbelievable!!!!!
As powerful as she is recorded, she will knock you out live. Saw her recently, with Shawn Colvin, at a benefit show. Much too short, but wonderful nonetheless.
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Carbon Leaf - The War Was In Color
(Jan 26, 2011 - 11:59) | scrubbrush wrote: My seven year old son was transfixed by the lyrics of this song and we spent at least half an hour talking about war, past and present, and what this song was saying... I am now a HUGE fan of this song.
Wow. Impressive. I hope more kids get educated about war. Before they have to go off and fight one, or worse, start one.
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Dire Straits - Brothers In Arms
(Jan 25, 2011 - 15:21) | vandal wrote: My best friend's son is returning to Iraq/Afghanistan for the third time. . .
Dammit. Here's hoping ALL the sons, daughters, fathers and mothers come home soon. Dammit.
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Joni Mitchell - For Free
(Jan 25, 2011 - 14:03) | The story of the song reminds me of the acclaimed violinist, who regularly sells out venues like Carnegie Hall (at $100+ for the cheap seats), playing in the subway. His violin? A 1710's era Stradivarius, worth millions. Hardly anyone paid him any attention, much less gave him any money. It was something of a stunt, but still, a guy who gets paid thousands of dollars PER MINUTE for his playing, and no one gave him a second glance.
Kinda makes you wonder what else we miss every day, huh?
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Hem - Reservoir
(Jan 25, 2011 - 09:57) | Her voice is just amazing. So distinctive, so clear. Wonderful.
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Roy Orbison - Oh, Pretty Woman
(Jan 20, 2011 - 09:05) | CCSandman wrote:Ruined by that awful film.
This song cannot be ruined by a mere film. How old is this song? Is the movie going to hold up that well? Unlikely.
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James McMurtry - We Can't Make It Here
(Jan 19, 2011 - 10:36) | I really wish this song was not so accurate. Brutal.
That McMurtry guy can sure write a cheery little ditty, huh?
Btw, that pic on the album cover? Close as he ever gets to a smile.
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Rolling Stones - Not Fade Away
(Jan 19, 2011 - 09:21) | This song is one of those rare gems that can be covered by practically anyone, in any style, and still sound good. The Stones do it nicely here, not straying too far from the feel of the original. This song also shows what an incredible talent Buddy Holly really was: his songs still sound fresh, fifty-plus years on.
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Patty Griffin - Little God
(Jan 17, 2011 - 11:36) | This song makes me think it's not a good idea to get on the bad side of this lady.
Just sayin'...
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Elton John - Levon
(Jan 10, 2011 - 13:38) | Baby_M wrote:
As a piece of music, I've always liked this one. I'll confess, though, that the lyrics come off pretentious and a touch incoherent to me.
An apt description of Bernie's lyrics.
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Propellerheads - History Repeating (w/ Shirley Bassey)
(Jan 10, 2011 - 12:18) | Cynaera wrote:
It only takes one-eighth of a second for a stingray to incapacitate its prey. Guessing that's the same amount of time for you to get bored with a song. Um, and sorry about your whatever not working anymore. I recommend B6, Viagra, Alka-Seltzer, or a pre-frontal lobotomy.
I'll take a free bottle in front of me, thanks.
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Jan 07, 2011 - 10:27) | leathepea wrote: The Live version is much, much better.
Yeah but Bill doesn't have the bandwidth to play a 15-20 minute song...
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Jan 07, 2011 - 10:26) | We went to visit my relatives in Oklahoma over Thanksgiving. Near Broken Bow, which actually has a Choctaw Casino. Ancestors were moonshinin' farmers, related to the real 'Rooster Cogburn' no less. Yep, he was a real person. My kin has cleaned up their act appreciably though...
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Mavis Staples - I Belong to the Band
(Jan 07, 2011 - 09:25) | UltraNurd wrote: I'm now convinced that Lyle Lovett just wants to be Mavis Staples.
You say that like it's a bad thing...
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Hem - The Beautiful Sea
(Jan 07, 2011 - 07:51) | coolpeople_rule wrote: I just love their music!
Every time I hear her voice, I'm stunned. Again.
Sort of reminds me of Sandy Denny (Fairport Convention), not the same sound, but somehow reminiscent.
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Iron & Wine - Love and Some Verses
(Jan 06, 2011 - 07:37) | fredriley wrote:
Yup, there's never a hammock when you want one. This soporific number is a nice lullaby, and has the effect of half a spliff of decent hash
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Pat Metheny - New Chautauqua
(Jan 05, 2011 - 11:39) | mybaldbird wrote: I thought for sure this was Bela Fleck playin some guitar, but it ain't!
Sounds a bit similar, but Pat Metheny has a distinctive sound, easily identifiable in just a few notes.
Like me some Bela Fleck too...
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Buddy Holly - Well All Right
(Jan 05, 2011 - 09:06) | The amazing thing about his music is how well it holds up. Fifty years later, it still works. How much music has that kind of staying power?
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Marvin Gaye - Inner City Blues
(Jan 05, 2011 - 08:44) | After the first couple notes, I think 'Ahhh, Marvin'. So perfect, so sad.
This is what the 'Godlike' rating is for. Damn.
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James P. Johnson - Blue Note Boogie
(Dec 20, 2010 - 10:50) | Can't believe I've never heard of him before. This is where it all begins. You can hear the genesis of all the greats, right here. Out-freakin-standing.
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California Guitar Trio - The Good the Bad and the Ugly
(Dec 16, 2010 - 13:51) | tbaloney619 wrote: Just how many version of this song do you have in your collection, Bill? I like them all.
I still like the movie version best. It's so over-the-top. This is great, but smoothed out and much more musical than the movie.
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Iron and Wine - Free Until They Cut Me Down
(Dec 15, 2010 - 09:14) | sqqqrly wrote:
Does anything on rp 'suck'? If not, why did Bill create a 'Sucko-Barfo' rating?
Some songs clearly do (subjectively) suck. Yes those that suck can (subjectively) be loved by others, and rightly so.
I love this song though - easy 8.
It's amazing to me, some of the comments about songs I love dearly. And some I can hardly stand. But that's the beauty of RP: if you don't like what's on, just wait a couple minutes, you're likely to hear something you like.
I've noticed my song ratings tend to match the RP average. Although I admit I do not rate the songs I do not like: I think my lowest rating is a 6. Plus I try to find something to like about most songs, and of course Bill does not play anything truly dreadful.
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String Cheese Incident - Take Five
(Dec 14, 2010 - 09:05) | Cynaera wrote:
Agreed. Dave Brubeck was the master, but oh, what a homage (an homage?) to him... I love this song, no matter who performs it (um, unless Tiny Tim were to attempt it on his ukelele...)
Shutting up now.
Dave is STILL the master. Not dead yet. I saw him in concert a few years ago. Outstanding.
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William Shatner - Common People
(Dec 14, 2010 - 08:45) | LongGoneDaddy wrote: Shatner taught me to speak Canadian in a canoe near Vancouver with a huge inflatable beaver and mounty watching...
Is that what the kids are callin' it these days?
I love this song. Joe Jackson really makes it rock. Bill Shatner is a hoot.
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Neil Young - Powderfinger
(Dec 13, 2010 - 10:55) | helgigermany wrote:
I cannot agree! Bills Team always look for new artists,. Its difficult to find , but there are some good ones. For me, the 30 years old music is old, but not tired. Maybe, you are tired to hear, and you need a break, but for me, a lot of old songs come fresh and the lyrics are up to date right now.!
Bill has a team now?
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Neil Young - Powderfinger
(Dec 13, 2010 - 10:54) | ri_shelton wrote:Well now, hang on there. I swear he changed the words to my favorite line in this version: Doesn't the original go "...face splashed in the sky" and this version is "...face flashed in the sky". I expect a response within thirty seconds from you interweb dweebs. 
... crickets chirping...
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Robert Plant & Alison Krauss - Killing The Blues
(Dec 13, 2010 - 08:53) | EarlOfTadwick wrote: I prefer Shawn Colvin's version...
I saw her last night, she sang this song. Lovely.
edit: song was written and performed by Roly Salley, covered by Shawn Colvin, John Prine, others.
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Snow Patrol - If There's A Rocket Tie Me To It
(Dec 08, 2010 - 09:27) | I like these guys. I met the drummer once, at a friend's wedding. He seemed very nice, no 'rock star' about him at all.
I tried to ask him about the name of the band, because there's a song by Alpinestars called 'Snow Patrol', and the chorus includes the line "Snow Patrol / Saved my soul". I still don't know if there's any connection though.
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James McMurtry - Walk Between the Raindrops
(Dec 06, 2010 - 11:59) | guitarwhisperer wrote: Always been a fan of this waaay underappreciated singer-songwriter. One reason he's so little known is that he's only active in fits and starts. He doesn't help his own cause much — don't think he cares much about fame or success. Another great Texas singer-songwriter... something in the water down there. (Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Guy CLark, Joe Ely, Butch Hancock, the list goes on and on...)
... Billy Joe Shaver, Townes Van Zandt, Steve Earle, Toni Price, Patty Griffin, Nanci Griffith, Roky Erickson, Blaze Foley... we can do this all day.
The Flatlanders (Jimmie, Joe and Butch) put out their first album around 1972. The established 'country music scene' hated it. They released their sophomore effort some thirty years later. Didn't wanna rush into anything, I guess.
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Jerry Douglas, Russ Barenberg & Edgar Meyer - Big Bug Shuffle
(Dec 02, 2010 - 08:04) | Sjaaks wrote: Wow!! Such quality and you can hear they have loads of fun while playing this!
10
Jerry Douglas has such a distinctive sound: you don't realize how many times you've heard him until he's up front like this. Wonderful stuff.
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Steve Earle - Copperhead Road
(Dec 01, 2010 - 15:23) | scraig wrote: I'm sorry. I can't stop laughing. This is the cheesiest thing I have ever heard.
You would not think it was cheesy if you knew people who've lived this song.
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Neko Case & Her Boyfriends - Whip the Blankets
(Nov 30, 2010 - 08:35) | unclelonghair wrote:
I think she went through a kind of David Lynchian / macabre phase around the time of this album. Not that her music could really be called upbeat, but now she seems to be in the "red head pinup" phase.
She takes my breath away in both phases — guess I'm a fan. I can listen to her sing all day long.
I'm tryin' to figger out how to become one of her boyfriends. Get in line, I guess.
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The Lively Ones - Surf Rider
(Nov 29, 2010 - 09:55) | Stingray wrote: It might fit into a film like PF (or we like to believe it does),
but I can say that I always HATED this sort of music,
from the day I was born!
Grandpa tells abut war...
I would have thought with a name like 'Stingray' you'd be all over surf music. I love it, from the old stuff to the out-there stuff like Man or Astro-Man?
Surfs You Right!
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James Horner - Sing, Sing, Sing
(Nov 24, 2010 - 09:10) | Is there a lick from a Hoagy Carmichael tune in there? The song was in a movie, I think it was 'To Have And Have Not', the song was about Hong Kong. The lick is maybe 2/3rds in, hits a couple times, then you don't hear it again. Prolly one of the musicians just riffing a familiar bit. Nice little tidbit though.
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Emory Joseph - Brown Eyed Women
(Nov 18, 2010 - 08:37) | I always think this is Nickel Creek when it starts, maybe it's the mandolin. And the voice is similar too, but Mr. Joseph's has more 'depth'.
When I see it's Emory Joseph covering The Dead, I understand why I like it so much. This is really wonderful.
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Travis - Sing
(Nov 16, 2010 - 09:31) | Didn't Benny Goodman do a version of this? With Gene Krupa on drums? I'm so confused.
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Sonny Landreth - Howlin' Moon
(Nov 15, 2010 - 09:47) | I love hearing those first few guitar notes, you KNOW it's Sonny Landreth and it's gonna be good.
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Patty Griffin - Little God
(Nov 15, 2010 - 08:15) | Coaxial wrote: 9 to a 10...Maybe it is the pain meds, maybe not...
If I had some of your meds, I'd bump it a notch to 10 too...
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Lyle Lovett - Private Converstions (Acoustic)
(Nov 12, 2010 - 08:21) | Lyle Lovett is one of those artists who seems to make music for himself, not for commercial success. Maybe I'm wrong (it's happened before), but I think he does what he does because he truly loves doing it, and has the luxury of being paid handsomely for it. He's not unique of course, I think the best artists (whatever their medium) share that trait. But a song like this, he's already made a fortune from it, played it a thousand times, but he still wants to sit down and play it again, sparse and pure. I don't know, somehow that dedication and emotion comes through.
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Savoy Brown - Train to Nowhere
(Nov 11, 2010 - 13:55) | DrCyKosis wrote: There seems to be an obsession with Savoy Brown and trains.
You say that like it's a bad thing...
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Patty Griffin - One Big Love
(Nov 04, 2010 - 14:35) | djblitz wrote: I was shocked to see this was done by Patty Griffin....I never expected I would rate one of her songs so low. It just isn't that great.
For Patty Griffin, it's merely okay. Which means it towers over 99% of what passes for popular music these days. We say this is ho-hum because, compared with her other work, it is. But her other work is so incredible, so 'stop what you're doing and just listen' amazing, this suffers by comparison.
Can you tell I'm a fan of Ms. Griffin?
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David Lindley - Tuna Fish Blues
(Nov 02, 2010 - 08:14) | Funny how it only takes a couple notes from his guitar and you know exactly who it is. What a nut. A talented nut.
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Patty Griffin - You'll Remember
(Oct 29, 2010 - 08:28) | lattalo wrote:
I have heard her sing this live and she hits the notes on purpose. This women is so incredible, she writes these incredible songs, then sings them just like she wants to. 
Yeppers. As many times as I've heard her songs, they never fail to stop me in my tracks. Wonderful.
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Elton John - Ticking
(Oct 28, 2010 - 08:29) | jmsmy wrote:wow Bill that's a "Deep Track
No kidding. I'm a huge EJ fan, at the beginning I thought "this sounds like Elton John's piano, but it can't be, I've never heard this." Then he sings and of course it IS Elton.
I'm anxious to hear his new album, with Leon Russell (?!)
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Danny O'Keefe - Good Time Charlie's Got The Blues
(Oct 27, 2010 - 09:38) | hschlossberg wrote: What a piece of country-hicky, sleepy, droaning crap. Sure, that's how I like to spend my Friday night. Ugh.
Oddly enough, that IS how I like to spend my Friday night. Different strokes, huh?
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Eilen Jewell - Dusty Boxcar Wall
(Oct 26, 2010 - 09:01) | Dog_Ear wrote: what's with the lines lifted directly from "House of the risin' sun?"
It's called 'homage'.
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Hank Dogs - 18 Dogs
(Oct 25, 2010 - 14:39) | hippiechick wrote: I always picture a bunch of tough dudes riding up on horseback to a little cottage in the woods
...and getting quite a bit more than they'd expected. Yeppers.
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Marvin Gaye - What's Going On
(Oct 22, 2010 - 09:06) | nelsonha wrote:
I'm always in the mood to hear his voice. I love his sweet, smooth voice.
DIG.
What I really wish, is the sentiment he expresses is someday not relevant. Someday, singing about 'mothers cryin' and 'brothers dyin' will seem like a quaint anachronism. As it is, I'm afraid Marvin's words will always be timely.
Peace: we needz it.
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Toni Price - Lucky
(Oct 21, 2010 - 10:24) | Cynaera wrote:I've never heard of her before - but this is a really good song. She's got some pipes, and the subtlety to go with that power. I'll need a few more listens, but I love the slide guitar, the muffled bass, and her vocals. Pretty pleasing so far.
Toni Price plays every Tuesday evening at the Continental Club on South Congress. It's 'Hippie Hour', and often goes all night. She's the real deal. There are a number of youtube vids from Hippie Hour performances.
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Mazzy Star - Flowers In December
(Oct 20, 2010 - 09:22) | drews wrote: Pretty song, but could have been written by Neil Young
The beginning with the harmonica, sure. But Hope takes a bit of a different turn than Mr. Young, no?
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Pops Staples - World In Motion
(Oct 18, 2010 - 07:39) | fitzworld wrote: Holy shit!!! What the hell is this craptastic faux music?? BORING!! Please don't EVER play this again or I'll sue you!!!!
Go away, willya? Your comments about this music are as idiotic as your empty legal threats. Just go away.
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Patty Griffin - Boston
(Oct 15, 2010 - 08:58) | fredriley wrote: This woman seriously boots donkey (sorry, 'kicks ass' ;-)) and if I were 20 years younger I'd likely develop a crush for her. An easy 8 from the Nottingham jury.
You know Patty Griffin was born in 1964 don't you? That makes her only four years younger than you. Crush away, Fred!
Patty could get an 8 from me just reading her grocery list.
(She does sound much younger on this song though. She can make her voice whatever she wants you to hear...)
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Patty Griffin - Boston
(Oct 15, 2010 - 08:53) | Every time I hear something from this album, I think "Man, that Patty Griffin can cover all the bases!" and I try to think which album it's from: seems it's often this one. Some of her best material is on her only unreleased album!
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Mark Knopfler - So Far From The Clyde
(Oct 14, 2010 - 13:00) | xtalman wrote:
Dad was in the Navy for 4 years and I remember he was sad when he found out that the two ships he served on were scraped. I think he figured they were but still....
Yeah, my grandfather's ship was sold to the Argentine Navy, then finally scrapped. Sad end for any ship, but you just can't save 'em all.
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Richie Havens - Freedom
(Oct 13, 2010 - 12:04) | Cynaera wrote: I can't and won't critique Richie Havens' work. All I know is that every time I hear one of his songs, the sun comes out, even when it's winter. Stuff grows, even when there's two feet of snow on the ground. I dance, even when I feel like I can't lift my arms or move my fingers.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Thank you.
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Neil Young - Helpless
(Oct 13, 2010 - 09:40) | bindi wrote:
I can find a lot of reasons not to like Neil - weak, wobbly, slightly out of tune voice, kind of slow songs, etc -but somehow, I love most of his music. (not a fan of the rockin' tunes) To me, he is a voice of pure human emotion.
That is where Neil really shines. Of course his songwriting contributes, but the way he can put so much emotion into a song, not many artists can do it as well. Even his rockin' tunes, he throws himself into them too, wringing out emotion.
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Townes Van Zandt - Pancho & Lefty
(Oct 12, 2010 - 12:33) | jim1964 wrote: you learn something new every day, here I always thought that this was a Willie Nelson song.
Mr. Van Zandt is heavily covered, often by Mr. Nelson: the man knows a good song when he hears it. My favorite Willie cover of a Townes song is 'Marie', one of the saddest songs ever written.
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Patty Griffin - Stay on the Ride
(Oct 11, 2010 - 07:37) | Toke wrote: Now this Lady sure has ''SOUL'' I can hear Aretha Franklyn here, song lollops along just like a bus ride. Whatever the guy below me was listening to sure aint whats coming threw on my Rig. Nice one RP :-)
Indeed. Ms. Griffin has more soul, and the talents to express it, than maybe 90% of currently performing artists. The woman can whisper a lullaby, scream in anger, or groove on down the line, as well as anyone ever, ever has.
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David Lindley - Tuna Fish Blues
(Oct 07, 2010 - 14:38) | Alafia wrote: David Lindley rocks my smelly socks.
Your smelly socks make that week-old tunafish seem like rose petals...
Mr. Lindley is a nut. Love it.
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye (live)
(Oct 06, 2010 - 10:27) | madra wrote: Whenever Bill plays this song, I have to stop and listen, even though I know I'm going to end up crying.
Amen. It gets me every single time.
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Dave Matthews Band - Lying In The Hands Of God
(Sep 30, 2010 - 09:26) | I still cannot explain why I like DMB so much. Like this song: it's hard to figure out what exactly, if anything, Dave is trying to say. But reading the lyrics, it really affects me.
Plus I like all the different musical elements going on. It's got a nice varied texture.
I know I'm supposed to hate this guy's stuff, and I really cannot STAND his concert-going fans, but I still like his work.
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John Prine - Please Don't Bury Me
(Sep 29, 2010 - 13:35) | dkwalika wrote: Funny, I think John Prine is about as real as you can get. Not a phony bone in is body or his music.
Yep.
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Velvet Underground - Sweet Jane
(Sep 29, 2010 - 13:11) | Bad_Art wrote:Wow! I had never heard VU's studio version of this. Hard to believe how bad it actually is. I mean it sounds like some high schoolers made this in the den by sticking a sony walkman on record. It's off key, out of tune, and the sound is weak. The singer sounds like he's reading. How bad does something have to become before it achieves 'art?'
It's bad on purpose. That makes it 'art'.
But to be fair, nobody's ever accused VU of being stellar musicians. They practically created the DIY punk ethos.
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Massive Attack - Protection
(Sep 27, 2010 - 07:55) | Jonathan_pa wrote: Anybody else getting tones of "Everything but The Girl?"
I have no idea what you're talking about.
j/k...
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Los Lobos - Bertha
(Sep 24, 2010 - 13:57) | Stefen wrote: Why does this song and Lyle Lovett's "Friend of the Devil" have the same album art? And both appear to be by the Grateful Dead.
Stef, Bill can't sneak anything past you, can he?
The album is all covers of Grateful Dead songs by various artists. Why did Bill play 'em back-to-back? Who can possibly know what evil lurks in his fevered, twisted mind...
Just needling you. It's a great album.
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Patty Griffin - Useless Desires
(Sep 23, 2010 - 13:37) | Cynaera wrote:
This woman's voice can bring me to tears so easily, it frightens me. I have a hard time listening to her music, but I have a hard time NOT listening to it. I walk the wire with her. I try to balance songs like this with "Flaming Red" so I don't sink forever into a world I'll never completely, or even marginally, understand.
Still - she's got one of the purest, most confident, most sure voices I've heard in a long time. I totally agree with grungepuppy - glad Ms. Griffin didn't tolerate the "Catholic-School" method of teaching. Glad she grabbed the ruler and fwapped back.
Agree on all counts.
Edit: reading C's comments again. I think I love C as much as I love Patty, such a perfect description of her music.
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Mumford & Sons - Awake My Soul
(Sep 17, 2010 - 08:14) | I cannot tell the difference between M&S and The Avett Brothers. It's a good thing I like them both, but still.
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Old 97's - Jagged
(Sep 16, 2010 - 11:46) | CWKeeney wrote: Sounds like a Crazy Horse song.
Yeah, that crunchy guitar gives it a C.H. feel.
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Jeff Buckley - Last Goodbye
(Sep 16, 2010 - 09:17) | I have to stop working and listen to this song. Every single time. 'Cause I can't see through the tears. I don't know why this song affects me so strongly, but it rips my heart out every time. Damn.
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Dick Dale - Ghost Riders In The Sky
(Sep 13, 2010 - 15:23) | Cynaera wrote:I'm so ambivalent about this! On one hand, he's seriously talented and has a wicked sense of musical humor. On the other hand, his name makes me wonder if he's a washed-up porn star. But then, he's rather amazing on the guitar... Jury's still out (I wish he'd change his name!), but I truly appreciate his skill on the guitar. (If he'd change his name, I wouldn't keep reading double-enténdres into all my compliments about his talent.) I think I better just go away now...
Dick Dale is the greatest guitar player in the history of the world. If you don't believe that, just ask him.
You do know he's been playing guitar since the Sixties, right? If he hasn't changed his name by now, it ain't gonna happen.
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Lyle Lovett - The Road To Ensenada
(Sep 13, 2010 - 14:40) | sfearll wrote: love this album and this song...! written in the aftermath of his divorce from Julia Roberts, I believe...?
(and I can't believe this is the first time you've played it on RP?!)
Not sure about the album vis-a-vis Ms. Roberts, but the album has a Twilight Zone-ish twist. Lyle Lovett came up in the music scene in Austin, he was old buddies with Walter Hyatt, Champ Hood, Stephen Bruton, Nanci Griffith, Toni Price, the whole gang.
The Valujet crash happened just a month after 'Road to Ensenada' was released: it was already completed when the accident happened.
On the song 'You're Not From Texas' Lyle mentions his friend and mentor: "Uncle Walt is home with Heidi / Lyin' in her lovin' arms"
Walter (Uncle Walt) Hyatt was killed in the crash.
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Al Green - Love and Happiness
(Sep 10, 2010 - 10:54) | helgigermany wrote: I guess, he better wears a shirt?!
When he played ACL here, he wore a suit. It was at least 90 degrees in the shade. It wasn't just his music that was smokin' hot...
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Bruce Springsteen - Girls in Their Summer Clothes
(Sep 10, 2010 - 10:47) | This sounds nothing like what I expect Bruce to sound like, but I like it. His voice sounds pretty good, much better than I would ever have expected. Pretty great songwriting too.
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Jeff Healey Band - Stop Breakin Down
(Sep 08, 2010 - 09:19) | RedGuitar wrote: How about pretty great, for anybody! He put a lot of sighted guys to shame in his day.
Just funnin', I think it was a line in 'Roadhouse'. Jeff Healey, Patrick Swayze. Jeff then makes a crack about Pat being short, it's a funny little bit.
Jeff Healey not only had the technique, he captured the soul of the blues too. A rare talent, taken far too soon.
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Velvet Underground - I'm Waiting For The Man
(Sep 07, 2010 - 07:41) | sirdroseph wrote:
Dope schmope, he's a great guitar player even if he was Nancy Reagan!
Uh, Lou Reed is NOT a great guitar player. He is barely competent, much less great. That said, he has been able to take the most rudimentary of musical foundations and turn it into genius.
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Lyle Lovett - Fiona
(Sep 01, 2010 - 13:15) | crockydile wrote: I've always thought that this guy was a poser. Ya, know? Like that country-fried voice is a little forced. I offer as a contrast, Tom Waits, who I listen to and think "this guy is for real!" When I listen to Lyle, I think, "This guy is selling me something..."
Lyle is not a poser. He went to Texas A&M, for starters. His roommate was Robert Earl Keen. And when you see him perform, well, that clinches it.
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Old 97's - Jagged
(Aug 31, 2010 - 07:53) | ronshock wrote: Awesome stuff! My favorite Dallas export and fellow Texans - the always great Old 97's! RP needs more tracks from them - especially from the "Too Far to Care", "Wreck Your Life", and "Hitchhike to Rhome" albums.
Actually they're from Denton. But nobody's ever heard of Denton, so you're forgiven.
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Son Volt - Medicine Hat
(Aug 30, 2010 - 13:23) | KurtfromLaQuinta wrote: Call me extra weird.
Okay. You're extra weird.
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John Lee Hooker - Spellbound
(Aug 30, 2010 - 08:15) | jruhnke wrote: ZZ Top's "La Grange" is a song about the Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
"Spellbound", from which the great guitar lick comes from, is a John Lee Hooker song.
Hooker...whorehouse.... Coincidence? I think not.
Those ZZ Top boys. Layers upon layers of meaning with those guys.... ; )
Wait, what?
I heard this, and just figured this 'John Lee Hooker' guy, whoever he his, stole the riff from ZZ Top.
I'm wrong? My bad.
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Steve Earle - Telephone Road
(Aug 27, 2010 - 09:12) | toterola wrote:
Oh, yeah: Steve Earle is the real deal. Him and Billy Joe Shaver. Peace.
He is the real deal, and then some. Talk about hard roads, Billy Joe Shaver has walked down them all. And lived to tell about it, no small feat. Nice to know he's got fans out there... Peace.
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Santana - Put Your Lights On (feat Everlast)
(Aug 26, 2010 - 08:53) | babblecon wrote: Carlos...the best guitar player ever. I don't know any other player that can do it like he does. Whenever I hear him it "always goes down good". I have not heard his voice as in this song, All you sinners, is it him?
The singer is Everlast (Erik Schrody). His breakout album was 'Whitey Ford Sings the Blues', which, if you like this, is worth a listen.
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'til Tuesday - Coming Up Close
(Aug 24, 2010 - 08:01) | I even like, maybe 'especially' like, the parts where she's straining to sing lower than her voice will really go. Then she goes back into her normal register and nails it. Nice.
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'til Tuesday - Coming Up Close
(Aug 24, 2010 - 07:59) | craigh wrote:One of my all-time favourite singers. she captured me at the tender age of 14. Of course I also liked Lionel Ritchie then, so...
Fair enough, but look what Aimee has been doing lately, esp. vis-a-vis Mr. Ritchie's activity. No contest.
And I am a huge fan of the Commodores. Lionel Ritchie, less so.
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ZZ Top - La Grange
(Aug 24, 2010 - 07:49) | earthbased wrote:
Only John Lee Hooker's.
They worshiped at the feet of the Masters, they've never tried to hide their adoration. It's 'homage', not 'plagiarism'.
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Patty Griffin - Change
(Aug 23, 2010 - 14:34) | vandal wrote: Great picture. It's kinda weird to think of this song, especially the edgy, almost angry parts, coming from a woman who looks so unassuming.
Patty Griffin rocks.
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Steve Earle - Jerusalem
(Aug 23, 2010 - 13:04) | Reposted:
"Townes Van Zandt is the best songwriter in the whole world and I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that." - Steve Earle
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A Perfect Circle - A Stranger
(Aug 10, 2010 - 07:36) | "A Perfect Circle sound like a desperate dream of what rock used to be. Maybe that's the point." Pat Bashill, Rolling Stone.
Nice.
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Neville Brothers - Congo Square
(Aug 05, 2010 - 10:17) | sirdroseph wrote:
Couldn't possibly be Aaron Nevilles dog ear piercing, finger nail on chalkboard, piercing voice could it? 
I like his voice, but all that extra carp he adds is really annoying. Just sing it man, it don't need all your 'stylings' piled on top of it.
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The Fixx - Stand Or Fall
(Jul 28, 2010 - 07:42) | RadioDoc wrote: Great tune, with lyrics oddly still relevant over 25 years later.
Is this the value of our existence
Should we proclaim with such persistence
Our destiny relies on conscience
Red or blue what's the difference
Indeed. I went to the lyrics link and checked it out. Several timely references in there.
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Stephen Stills - Treetop Flyer
(Jul 27, 2010 - 12:43) | crockydile wrote:Yawn. This sounds like something that was written on the porch off the cuff with a stack of beer cans nearby.
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Black Sabbath - Planet Caravan
(Jul 26, 2010 - 09:56) | I would have sworn this was Robyn Trower, it sounds just like 'Bridge of Sighs'. Not a bad thing.
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The Surfaris - Wipeout
(Jul 23, 2010 - 12:30) | RedGuitar wrote:
Yeah, more surf music - Dick Dale, Davie Allan & the Arrows, the Rivieras, etc.
Also The Mermen, The Aqua Velvets, Los Straitjackets, Man Or AstroMan?, Laika And The Cosmonauts, The Sandblasters, Three Balls of Fire, Wheely McSidewalk And The Ball Bearings, ...
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The Republic Tigers - Golden Sand
(Jul 21, 2010 - 09:15) | danmcminn wrote:
Really? On a word-by-word basis yeah, sometimes it seems to me like the singer is looking for sound pairs. But overall it seems pretty clear. Turn your bleeding hearts into bleeding hands: a bleeding heart is a liberal, specifically one who speaks loudly about problems with the world and professes sympathy for those wronged (the rough-rough definition). Bleeding hands means hard work.
So rather than just talk about the ills of the world, work to make a difference.
Then the whole question response "how much responsibility..." is the singer trying to eliminate one excuse for inaction: what if I tried to help and someone turned what I did to evil advantage? It's worse to not try and help—he says. And most of the rest of the lyrics are the same: hey you kids at the clubs (the blacklight, underground) with your strong political messages—do something! Be active about what you talk about. And do it before we all get dragged down by the evils (the claws bit at the end).
Easy.
Yep, that's it. Thanks.
I'm in the 'shut up and work' school of thought, so this song really resonates with me.
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Gregory Alan Isakov - The Stable Song
(Jul 21, 2010 - 08:23) | dc_zee wrote: Reminds me of Slaid Cleaves in tempo, melody and lyrics.
Indeed. I love Slaid Cleaves, saw him at The Backyard once. So I like this guy's sound pretty well too.
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Mark Knopfler - So Far From The Clyde
(Jul 19, 2010 - 09:05) | Funny how several comments say something like 'Why am I welling up over this song? It's just a ship.' But sailors know a ship is more than the sum of its parts. Humphrey Bogart's 'Santana', Hemingway's 'Pilar', the Edmund Fitzgerald, the USS Boise (my grandfather served on her), the Arizona, the Indianapolis, and on and on. Ships somehow become something much more than a bunch of wood and steel, they hold a special place in our hearts and minds. Maybe it's because a ship takes us where we could not possibly go otherwise, out on the open ocean, out of sight from the safety of land. Without the ship, you could not survive. Sailors owe their lives to their ship, and it reflects in the reverence of songs like this one.
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Louis Armstrong - Skokiaan (South African Song)
(Jul 15, 2010 - 13:20) | WonderLizard wrote: "Glazer's unwitting condescension seems to have been lost on Louis Armstrong..."
I'm bothered by this if only because I don't think Louis ever missed anything. My guess, and it's only a guess—which is just as valid as the Wikipedia writer's guess—is that Louis knew exactly what "skokiaan" was/is and ...
Right on. Louis Armstrong was very smart, and his public persona was just that, a persona. No doubt he was well aware of the history behind the song. Maybe he performed it as a slap in the face to the racists who actually believed the stereotypes, who knows? Taking an insult and appropriating it as your own is not without precedent.
Love the song. And enjoy learning more about its background: finding out stuff like that adds immeasurably to the listening.
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Stevie Wonder - Boogie On Reggae Woman
(Jul 15, 2010 - 13:05) | dmax wrote: This is easily my favorite Stevie song, and it's probably the smartest written (although Living For The City's home->NY->jail scenario comes in a close second).
It's a funky study in dichotomy. Check the lyrics:
Nice Stevie: I'd like to see you boogie / right across the floor.
Evil Stevie: I'd like to do it to you / until you holler for more.
Nice Stevie: I'd like to see both of us / fall deeply in love.
Evil Stevie: I'd like to see you in the raw / under the stars above.
He does that repeatedly, even to the solo.
Nice Stevie asking permission: "Can I play?"
Evil Steve, bragging about his talent: "Can I play?!"
He obviously thought about this tune before committing it to tape.
And that groove... Jebus, this was a high water mark. Love love love this song.
I never noticed that before. Adds a whole 'nuther level to the groove. Thanks D!
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The Kinks - Come Dancing
(Jul 15, 2010 - 07:46) | TimeWaster wrote:That's some bad singing right there...
*snerk*
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Los Straitjackets - The Casbah
(Jul 14, 2010 - 08:00) | jpfueler wrote: very Red Elviesque...er Red Elvish...no
This sounds a lot like the Red Elvises(your favorite band)
Red Elvises ROCK. Saw them here at Jovita's years ago. That huge balalaika (sp?) was a hit.
Loves me some Los Straitjackets.
Surfs You Right!
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Mumford & Sons - Awake My Soul
(Jul 13, 2010 - 13:47) | Randomax wrote: Boy I bet the Avette (sp?) Brothers think the timing of these guys popularity sucks!
They sound practically identical to me. I like them both, but still.
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Lyle Lovett - Church
(Jul 01, 2010 - 12:06) | Pyro wrote: Ani DeFranco opened for Lyle and his large band when I caught the tour. FUN concert!! And Francine Reid singing "gospel" on tour was unbelievable!
I've seen him a few times. Keb Mo opened for him once, he was great. Francine Reed was kickin' it out both pants legs too.
$.25 to maryte
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Jun 30, 2010 - 15:24) | Dog_Ear wrote:
No, you are CORRECT. Authentic depiction of a slice of the US that ain't in the tour guides. Rockin' road tune too!
'cause they would shoot the tourists...
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Jun 30, 2010 - 15:23) | musickat wrote:
I think some of them are my relatives...... 
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Bo Diddley - Who Do You Love
(Jun 30, 2010 - 15:23) | I always thought John Lee wrote this, but I always liked Bo's version better. Maybe now it makes sense!
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Albert King - Born Under a Bad Sign
(Jun 30, 2010 - 13:16) | fredriley wrote:Sure is. I really like: "You know wine and women is all I crave / a big red woman's gonna carry me to my grave" I'll drink to that :*)
leg.
jus' sayin'...
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James Horner - Sing, Sing, Sing
(Jun 29, 2010 - 08:06) | SirLars wrote: love the drums....
If you like the drums on this version, check it out when Bill plays the Benny Goodman version, with Gene Krupa on the skins. This version is very good, but NOBODY can match Gene Krupa.
There was a movie about Gene Krupa, Sal Mineo played the part of Gene. Apparently Sal went to great lengths to match Gene's style for the close-up action scenes. But Gene himself played on a lot of the music too.
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Steely Dan - Deacon Blues
(Jun 24, 2010 - 10:36) | Ndugu wrote:Colleges alluded to in this song: Alabama Wake Forest Alabama was (and still is) a football powerhouse, with the pretentious nickname "The Crimson Tide". I'm guessing that Becker and Fagan relate more to Wake Forest, which lost a lot of football games at that time. Perhaps they were like the marching band ("learn to play the saxophone..."), working behind the scenes, cleverly amused by bizarre rituals of American football. We talked to a guy named Kenny Vance, who worked with what would become Steely Dan when he was with Jay & The Americans. He confirmed what we suspected: they are weird.
Disclaimer: I grew up in Montgomery, but cared little about Alabama or Auburn.
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Buena Vista Social Club - De Camino a La Vereda
(Jun 24, 2010 - 08:48) | Just wonderful. What an incredible bunch of musicians. Ry Cooder did the world a great service: if not for his efforts those artists almost certainly wouldn't be remembered. But now they will live forever.
I can't forget the part of the movie where they finally coaxed Ruben Gonzalez to play again. He had given up, you know? But they were able to bring him out and share his magic with the world again.
Paz, Caballeros.
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Little Richard - Tutti Fruiti
(Jun 17, 2010 - 13:30) | Is it any wonder White America was terrified of Little Richard? Along with other notables, he changed the face of music forever. An amazing talent and a true legend.
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Dire Straits - Brothers In Arms
(Jun 17, 2010 - 08:45) | Take a minute to remember all of our Brothers, and Sisters, who are still fighting for us. We can argue endlessly about 'why', but the boots on the ground deserve our respect no matter what.
Peace.
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Old 97s - Barrier Reef
(Jun 16, 2010 - 13:31) | Boxman wrote:"My name's Stewart Ransom Miller, I'm a serial lady killer."Great stuff. One of those bands you have to see live to fully appreciate. Saw them at Irving Plaza in NYC a few years ago and the place was rocking.
I've seen 'em a couple times. They opened for Chris Isaak at The Backyard. Great live act.
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Patty Griffin - You'll Remember
(Jun 14, 2010 - 08:15) | teadye wrote: Very nice! I thought at first it was Holly Cole. Too bad we never hear any of Holly's work or that of Jennifer Warnes on RP. Holly Cole's album "Don't Smoke in Bed" is often used at Sony to test their audio equipment while Jennifer Warnes album with Leonard Cohen (Famous Blue Raincoat) is used by many audiophiles to audio test high end equipment before buying.
I used to use Cowboy Junkie's first album, the one recorded in the church. It was recorded directly onto digital, with one microphone, so a good system really reveals the sense of space, i.e. the size of the church itself.
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Porcupine Tree - I Drive The Hearse
(Jun 08, 2010 - 10:05) | Imkirok wrote: A lot of interesting takes here on the meaning of this song. From someone who tried to patch together a bad relationship for many years, here are my thoughts (for what it's worth): This song shows the lengths a person will go to to protect him/herself when things get bad and go beyond your control. You lie to yourself, your friends and your family - deny that there is a problem. You withdraw hoping things will change or magically get better. You keep silent knowing that no matter what you say or do it will not change the other person and that silence is a powerful tool. You realize that you made a mistake and now you are paying the price - a price that will haunt you for a long time. You realize that the other person will blame you for his/her problems regardless of what you try to do to make it better.
I find this a terribly sad but truthful song.
It's hard for me to listen to, for exactly those reasons. Otherwise, I like it.
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Neko Case - Behind The House
(Jun 07, 2010 - 08:47) | sirdroseph wrote: Yea, I like her less and less with each passing year.
Interesting, because I like here more and more with each passing year. From the first note of her voice, I think 'ah, Neko.'
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Louis Jordan - Choo Choo Ch'Boogie
(Jun 03, 2010 - 10:39) | passsion8 wrote: Hard to believe I've only known the Asleep At The Wheel version all these years! Pretty darn similar....
Ray Benson and Co. usually hew close to the sound and spirit of the originals. His stage show 'A Ride With Bob' is wonderful.
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Martha Wainwright - Factory
(Jun 02, 2010 - 11:22) | Marr wrote: So where is all the outrage seen over Metric's use of the f-bomb when Martha sings
"These are not my people, I should never have come here. The chick with a dick and the gift for the gab"?
Or is that a metaphorical dick and thus different?
There ARE people who are outraged. Well, if not outraged, upset with Martha's characterization. Regarding the f-bomb, it has appeared in pop music going way back. It is in The Who's 'Who Are You', among others. Why there's such a fuss now, I don't know.
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James Horner - Sing, Sing, Sing
(Jun 02, 2010 - 07:57) | Albert1967 wrote:
I thought it was a Gene Krupa feature.
Krupa was before Prima . . . Or am I wrong?
Louis Prima wrote it. Gene Krupa played in Benny Goodman's band and is featured on his version, also played here.
I like this version, a LOT, but then I like just about ANY version of the song, as long as it's ably executed. Some songs are so good, they transcend individual performances.
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Emmylou Harris - Red Dirt Girl
(May 28, 2010 - 09:16) | LaurentianD wrote: I appreciate her voice and her pedigree.
But.
Roseanne Cash was never a red dirt girl.
Silver spooner with the gold cup.
Bah.
Um, what?
1) I don't what Ms. Cash has to do with this.
2) Roseanne Cash was not born wealthy. Her father was an Army radio operator, remember? Sure he went on to change the face of music forever, but she was no 'silver spooner'. And she's had a decent career of her own: comparing her to her father, or to Ms. Harris for that matter, is not fair. Those two are larger-than-life talents who defy all comparisons.
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Emmylou Harris - Red Dirt Girl
(May 28, 2010 - 09:10) | KurtfromLaQuinta wrote:
Cosmic America Music, Americana, Y'Alternative.
It's music the country stations won't play because it's to rock.
It's music the rock stations won't play because it's to country.
That's why I like it.
Dig.
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Patty Griffin - Sweet Lorraine
(May 27, 2010 - 13:24) | gForce wrote: I thought these were a lot of demos, so some rough edges are to be expected?
"Downtown Church" out next week. Already pre-ordered. Can't wait.
Heard another cut from it this morning. Outstanding, as usual. I could listen to Ms. Griffin sing a phonebook.
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Basia Bulat - Go On
(May 26, 2010 - 08:29) | I like it. Sorta reminds me of Roseanne Cash and Sinead Lohan.
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Billie Holiday - Ain't Nobody's Business If I Do
(May 20, 2010 - 08:08) | BerkeleyAlice wrote: What an education from Lester! Thanks!
I'm sorry to say that now when I hear Billie Holliday, I think of David Sedaris!
Okay, but in fifty years, Ms. Holiday will still be played, and people will say 'David who?'
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Sundays - Wild Horses
(May 04, 2010 - 09:44) | mikexican wrote: This is a fantastic version of a classic song; I like this as much as the original. I know core RS fans won't agree. No matter, this is beautiful.
The song itself is so good, it allows wide-ranging interpretations. I like this version a lot.
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Bob Dylan - One More Cup Of Coffee
(May 04, 2010 - 08:33) | gatorade wrote: Dylan's best album. Quite possibly because of Emmylou.
She makes everything she touches better. Especially this.
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Hank Dogs - 18 Dogs
(Apr 24, 2010 - 12:38) | Giselle62 wrote: the band's name should be changed—-i would never have thought in a million years they would sound like this. Here in the US "Hank Dogs" would be a neo-rockabilly band (also, "bareback" means something here in slang it may not mean there)
I mean it, y'all are great, but sometimes these things do make a difference.
The meaning is the same there as well. Another song on the album says as much. The whole thing is outstanding.
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Traffic - Low Spark of High-Heeled Boys
(Apr 16, 2010 - 07:33) | tomcool wrote: This song defined FM radio, with that medium emerged in the early 1970s.
AM to FM to Internet Radio . . .
Thanks, Bill. Keep it in rotation, when RP starts to beam transcranially!
It sure got played a lot. DJs used to put it on when they had to, uh, take a break. Or go outside and burn one. Either way, lots of airplay.
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Little Feat - Roll Um Easy
(Apr 15, 2010 - 12:54) | Lowell's son lives in Austin, he called in to one of the local morning radio shows not long ago. Seemed pretty interesting.
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Shadowy Men On A Shadowy Planet - Good Cop Bad Cop
(Apr 15, 2010 - 12:45) | Propayne wrote: I love all three; Man or Astro-Man?, Shadowy Men, the Mermen and I have to agree, the Mermen would be a perfect fit here on RP.
Also Laika and the Cosmonauts, The Aqua Velvets, Pollo Del Mar, and The Sandblasters.
Surfs You Right!
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Madrugada - Majesty (Live)
(Apr 14, 2010 - 14:28) | Xeric wrote: 51 bucks from Amazon? WTF?
It's only available as an import. Otherwise I'd have one already.
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Staple Singers - Respect Yourself
(Apr 14, 2010 - 08:27) | vandal wrote:Slap yourself! This isn't a "Christian" song. . . its an R&B icon. . . 
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Staple Singers - Respect Yourself
(Apr 14, 2010 - 08:25) | RParadise wrote:
Except they were never with Motown. They were in Memphis, with Stax. That's the Muscle Shoals studio band backing this track.
Buncha white dudes, if you can believe it. From North Alabama to Motown, those cats have quite a story.
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Nat King Cole - (Get Your Kicks On) Route 66
(Apr 13, 2010 - 07:50) | Ray Benson and Asleep At The Wheel do what I think is the definitive version, but ol' Ray would love this groovy smooth take too. Nice.
To be fair, Mr. Cole could sing a phone book and I'd give it at least a 6. What a voice.
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Gregory Alan Isakov - The Stable Song
(Apr 07, 2010 - 11:28) | dc_zee wrote: Reminds me of Slaid Cleaves in tempo, melody and lyrics.
Exactly what I thought. I LOVE S.C., so G.A.I. gets a nod in my book too.
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Joseph Arthur - In The Sun
(Apr 06, 2010 - 08:52) | treehugger wrote: May Dog's love be with you.
That's good enough for me!
Great pic. Thanks.
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Ennio Morricone - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
(Apr 01, 2010 - 14:17) | Art_Carnage wrote: For some reason, I want to throw on a poncho, slight up a stubby cigar, and start killin' people. Just because.
Just another Thursday, for me.
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Ennio Morricone - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
(Apr 01, 2010 - 14:16) | ThePoose wrote: Hang 'em high
Clint's character in HEH was 'Cooper'. In the spaghetti westerns I don't think he had a name besides 'Blondie'.
What still amazes me is how Eli Wallach, a Polish Jew, became known as the quintessential 'Mexican Bandit'. Not to mention he is still working today, at the age of 95 or something.
IMDB says he attended the University of Texas right here in Austin, and performed student plays alongside Walter Cronkite!
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Elvis Presley - Jailhouse Rock
(Apr 01, 2010 - 08:26) | unclehud wrote:"Number forty-seven said to number three:
You're the cutest jailbird I ever did see.
I sure would be delighted with your company,
Come on and do the jailhouse rock with me."
Don't think he'd sing that lyric these days. How — or why — did we get so judgemental? Who cares if he's homo?
Lieber and Stoller wrote it. They put a LOT of sexual innuendo and ambiguity into their songs. See the original lyrics to 'Hound Dog' for another example.
Elvis just sang it like they wrote it. Unlike 'Hound Dog', which got butchered.
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Elvis Presley - Jailhouse Rock
(Apr 01, 2010 - 08:24) | Not many folks know the 'Purple Gang' was a Jewish organized-crime outfit. Seriously. Why they ended up playing rhythm, I don't know...
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Steve Forbert - Good Planets Are Hard To Find
(Mar 30, 2010 - 18:16) | Rantipole wrote:Hahaha: Steve Forbert - Good Planets Are Hard To Find
Loudon Wainwright III - Hard Day On The Planet
Neko Case - Never Turn Your Back On Mother Earth
I cannot explain why I like Ol' Steve so much. Sorta reminds me of Shel Silverstein (sp?).
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Loudon Wainwright III - Hard Day On The Planet
(Mar 30, 2010 - 18:13) | blainejuchau wrote: Lyrics may be black comedy, but wow, was he ahead of his time. The info here says it was released in 1986. If he only knew what we've done since then.
Oh, he knows. I'm guessing he's so disgusted by it all that he can't even write songs about it anymore. 2010 makes 1986 look like heaven.
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Cowboy Junkies - Something More Besides You
(Mar 22, 2010 - 13:37) | skyguy wrote: These guys always remind me of a Sunday morning hangover, watching cartoons and smoking bongs. Is it just me?
You say that like it's a bad thing...
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K's Choice - Something's Wrong
(Mar 03, 2010 - 14:51) | Generally speaking I like K's Choice. While I appreciate the humor of this song, it's not exactly workin' for me.
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Otis Redding - I've Been Loving You Too Long
(Mar 03, 2010 - 12:00) | lmic wrote: Otis Redding vs. Sam Cooke. Who wins?
I have to give the edge to Sam Cooke, but I don't really think it's a 'versus' issue. I think they'dve loved to share a stage and riff off each other. Who wins? WE do.
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Joan Armatrading - Everyday Boy
(Mar 03, 2010 - 08:36) | handyrae wrote: I've always liked her name — it sounds so strong. Odd, I know.
Not odd. I've always loved her strong voice as well. On this song she holds it back until the chorus, I like that.
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The Frames - The Cost
(Mar 02, 2010 - 09:53) | MayBaby wrote:
But when you're already down it brings a certain release. I love it. 8 > 9 I think I'll have a good cry now :o) Love has been the cause
Of all this suffering
And what has been our loss
Has been it's gaining
So lay your burdens down
And stop your crying Will we let it burn
Burn us down, burn us Low have been the odds
Of our reuniting
And where now can we turn
When we've got nothing Will we let it burn
Burn us down, burn us
And maybe it'll turn
Us around
Thanks MayBaby, for posting the lyrics. I share your sentiment as well. Peace.
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Jay Farrar - Vitamins
(Mar 02, 2010 - 09:19) | "Really not mad at anyone
You're just mad at the world"
I'm trying not to be that person anymore, maybe that's why I like this song. I like most anything the Uncle Tupelo boys do though.
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Elliott Smith - Between The Bars
(Mar 02, 2010 - 09:05) | azdcryan wrote: Man, this dude breaks my heart every time...first couple chords of any song of his and it's like a tractor beam into a base sadness that exists deep inside of my being. I used to be a sad person, and have since learned that life is a symphony; with point and counterpoint, ecstacy and grief, hopefulness and despairing, triumph and failure...all used in movements and proportions that bring our days and nights alive with color.
In spite of all the blessings that my life today is filled with, the music of E.S. can without fail bring a lump in my throat, a weight in my chest, and an almost insatiable desire to weep...but not because it makes me sad - more because it makes me feel almost overwhelmed with joy. He slays me. His music, for me is that intensely beautiful.
I feel that my life has been enriched by Elliot's sound; as well the sounds of others like Brian Wilson, Nick Drake, John Lennon, James Taylor, Tom Petty, Chris Robinson, and Billie Holiday to name a very very few.
Thanks RP, for providing a soundtrack to all of our lives.
Well said. Thank you.
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Joni Mitchell - California
(Feb 26, 2010 - 08:55) | I lived in NorCal for a short time in the late 80's (I was there during the Loma Prieta quake), and it's maybe the only place I have ever felt 'homesick' about. This album, and this song, capture something I can't begin to explain. This and Woody Guthrie's 'California Stars' (perf. by Billy Bragg and Wilco) always remind me of that time.
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Fats Domino - Blue Monday
(Feb 26, 2010 - 08:31) | h_in_bristol wrote: Brings back memories of Austin, KUT and Larry Monroe...
Fats is still belting it out every Monday night in Austin. There was a big format shakeup at KUT recently, but if they had messed with The Blue Monday Show there would have been rioting in the streets.
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Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings - 100 Days, 100 Nights
(Feb 26, 2010 - 08:17) | Sharon Jones appeared on SNL with Michael Buble. When I first heard they were on together I thought WTF, but they cooked pretty well together. Sharon Jones is the real deal, baby.
Edit: I fixed my screw-up. Thanks Scott!
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Richard Shindell - Confession
(Feb 25, 2010 - 08:54) | lattalo wrote:
pretty little blue pill, Valuim........
1/2 mg Xanax is blue too. 1 mg is green.
So I've heard.
Dig this song, btw.
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Townes Van Zandt - Lungs
(Feb 25, 2010 - 08:15) | Recently heard an interview with Steve Earle. He was playing some small place, and Townes was in the front row, drunk as a skunk (I know!), and heckling Steve mercilessly. So finally Steve broke into a high-speed version of 'Mr Gold and Mr Mud' or whatever the title is. I doubt it actually shut ol' Townes up, but I'm sure he got a kick out of it.
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Michelle Shocked - Black Widow
(Feb 23, 2010 - 12:15) | Photo-John wrote:
DMX? It's DOA, one of the greatest punk rock bands ever. I hate DMX. He is the suckiest of sucky bad rappers.
Thanks for the correction. I'm not familiar with either one, so I was guessing, hence the (?). Love 'Fogtown' though, it closes out the disc with a decidedly different feel.
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Indigo Girls - Second Time Around
(Feb 23, 2010 - 08:25) | I really like Amy and Emily's new direction. I'm a sucker for banjo, for one thing, but this has such a nice vibe overall. Makes me wanna sit on a porch with a mint julep or something.
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Martha Wainwright - Factory
(Feb 11, 2010 - 14:14) | I like Martha Wainwright. A lot. And I used to like this song a lot. But now that line about the chick really bothers me. Maybe I'm being too sensitive, or maybe I just know more about who those chicks are now. Either way, this song has lost its luster with me.
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James Horner - Sing, Sing, Sing
(Feb 11, 2010 - 10:44) | Great tune no matter who's playing it. Benny and Gene's version is really the definitive one though: it's wilder and more 'aggressive', if that makes sense.
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Sun Kil Moon - Glenn Tipton
(Feb 08, 2010 - 09:31) | DarceySuzanne wrote: This guy has this flawed but beautiful voice that is so intimately sweet. I love it.
You articulated my sentiments far better than I could. Nicely done.
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Ben Folds - Fred Jones Part 2
(Feb 03, 2010 - 08:15) | chirpie wrote:
You might, MIGHT, win an argument for pretentious... but presumptuous? That's an odd choice there considering more middle-class guys get laid off now than any other time in the past few decades. More like a spot on choice for an all to common sad situation...
Exactly. Having been through my share of layoffs, long before anyone ever heard of Ben Folds, this song hits hard.
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The Avett Brothers - The Perfect Space
(Jan 28, 2010 - 08:30) | Sjaaks wrote: Gotta love it!!
"I wanna have friends, friends i can trust. That love me for the man i become not the man that is was..."
Nice....
8
Yeah, that's the first thing I thought. These are some of the best lyrics I've heard/read in a long time. Directly to the point, yet they lead to other places too.
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Billy Bragg & Wilco - California Stars (live)
(Jan 26, 2010 - 14:27) | peter_james_bond wrote: The late Jay Bennett, former Wilco member, once said that out of all the songs that Wilco recorded, this was his favorite.
Helps to start out with great material. Love this whole album series.
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Patty Griffin - Rain
(Jan 26, 2010 - 14:20) | MsJudi wrote: An absolutely accurate and heartbreaking account of what it's like to live with someone you love who is plagued by depression.
Indeed. As someone who suffers from it, this song speaks to me in painful ways. Still, I love it.
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The Tragically Hip - Fiddlers Green
(Jan 26, 2010 - 14:16) | From Wiki, another poem about fiddler's green:
The cavalrymen's poem Halfway down the trail to Hell,
In a shady meadow green
Are the Souls of all dead troopers camped,
Near a good old-time canteen.
And this eternal resting place
Is known as Fiddlers' Green. Marching past, straight through to Hell
The Infantry are seen.
Accompanied by the Engineers,
Artillery and Marines,
For none but the shades of Cavalrymen
Dismount at Fiddlers' Green. Though some go curving down the trail
To seek a warmer scene.
No trooper ever gets to Hell
Ere he's emptied his canteen.
And so rides back to drink again
With friends at Fiddlers' Green. And so when man and horse go down
Beneath a saber keen,
Or in a roaring charge of fierce melee
You stop a bullet clean,
And the hostiles come to get your scalp,
Just empty your canteen,
And put your pistol to your head
And go to Fiddlers' Green.
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Dire Straits - Brothers In Arms
(Jan 26, 2010 - 09:11) | hixmyrick wrote:
It was one of the first five I got and one of my favorites, too. Seems almost more poignant today as our American government war mongers around the world.
Indeed. As much as I love this song, I wish someday it will seem like an antiquated relic, unrelated to modern times. Unfortunately I expect this song will be just as timely one hundred years after its writing.
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye (live)
(Jan 25, 2010 - 08:09) | 8? I gave this an 8? What the FRACK is wrong with me? Patty Griffin singing about Jeff Buckley? Solid 10. Duh.
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Little Richard - Rip It Up
(Jan 18, 2010 - 16:00) | Wizzuvv_oz wrote: so glad to hear a little LR. Often imitated never duplicated.
Bill just made a comment about the lyrics "gonna ball tonight" and not knowing what that meant when he first heard it. Same with me and LR lyric "dancin underneath the apple tree"
Okay, I think I get what it means, but what's the origin? Google wasn't helpful.
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Dave Edmunds - Crawling From The Wreckage
(Jan 18, 2010 - 15:57) | nagsheadlocal wrote: Ah, for the early 80s when rockabilly made a brief, shining comeback.
Wasn't Mr. Edmunds in 'Rockpile'? A certified supergroup, they didn't (couldn't) last long.
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Wilco - Passenger Side
(Jan 18, 2010 - 15:54) | gregmc15 wrote:
Robert Earl Keen
Who also wrote one of the few holiday tunes I like 'Merry Christmas From the Family'. Priceless.
He also wrote 'Five Pound Bass'. Beez may know it...
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Antje Duvekot - Vertigo
(Jan 14, 2010 - 09:49) | LorraineV1 wrote: I always hear her and think it's Eliza Gilyson. Their voices are so similar.
Good point, but I've heard Eliza so much it's easy for me to tell the difference. Love Antje's voice. And Eliza's too, although her songwriting is really the draw.
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Sonny Landreth - Congo Square
(Jan 13, 2010 - 10:07) | peter_james_bond wrote:
Great video! Nice, long, steady, tight shots of the man playing. I've often wondered if RP could provide links to good youtube videos of the artists, but I'm sure there would be copy-write issues and, not to mention, RP would need a larger staff to hunt down the videos. And, anyway, RP contributors often recommend good videos.
Indeed. Many songs with good videos already have one attached. Somebody (not Bill) could figure out how to catalog and index them somehow.
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Steve Earle - Telephone Road
(Jan 08, 2010 - 12:17) | mandolin wrote: ...wait, is this about the telephone road i grew up along?..like, next to pasadena coming out of houston?..
Yes, the very same.
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Dec 11, 2009 - 09:51) | xs9095 wrote: a desert eagle thats one great big old pistol
i mean fifty caliber made by bad-ass ebers Hebrews
and some surplus tracers for that old BAR
of slatons as soon as it gets dark
were gonna have us a time
awsome!!!!!!!!!
I shot a D.E. once. Not nearly as bad as you'd think, but I sure wouldn't wanna NEED to use it. Sheesh.
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(Dec 11, 2009 - 09:44) | j7 wrote: You are definitely a redneck if you rate this over 3.
Guilty as charged.
I've got relatives in Broken Bow. James ain't stretching the truth none.
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Lynyrd Skynyrd - I Know A Little
(Dec 11, 2009 - 07:59) | ceviche wrote: Good guitarists, brainless rednecks. I mute them now. Curtis Lowe is a patronizing song that plays to old and bogus sterotypes, as bad as Mr. Bojangles or Bad, Bad Leroy Brown. Their response to Neil Young was childish. But LS and NY are all just rockers, and while their debates don't really count for much in the end, I go with Neil.
Bull. The Ballad of Curtis Loew was written in tribute to the folks Ronnie and company listened to when they were kids. They were po' white trash punks, and they would go sit on front porches in the 'wrong' part of town and hang out with old black musicians. Some of 'em might've had hits that got ripped off by producers, some prolly never got any farther than the front porch. But the kids loved that music and wanted to pay some kind of tribute to those folks.
'Curtis Loew' is an amalgam of those people, not a real person: they thought it'd be funny to give a black man a 'Jewish' name, and the famous theater chain came to mind.
The 'battle' between Neil and the band was fabricated. There are a number of photos around that time with Neil wearing an LS t-shirt, likewise photos of Ronnie wearing NY shirts. It was more like a competition than a feud.
Comparing the two is pointless. As a pure musical genius, sure Neil takes the cake hands down: the members of LS would agree. But LS came out with a unique sound, based on jump blues, dipped in rock n' roll, and deep fried.
The other songs you mention, well, they DO speak of what we think of NOW as jaded stereotypes. But those kinds of people did exist, there's no reason to sweep them under the rug. Besides, was 'Mr. Bojangles' or 'Leroy Brown' really black? I don't have the lyrics in front of me, but I don't recall any references to ethnicity. Maybe YOUR stereotypes are showing...
Peace,
c.
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The Black Crowes - Good Morning Captain
(Dec 08, 2009 - 08:51) | RedGuitar wrote:
Yeah, I thought it was Levon Helm singing!
I did too. He's definitely going for that sound. Imitation, flattery: can't blame him for paying homage to a legend.
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Blind Boys of Alabama - Amazing Grace
(Dec 03, 2009 - 12:20) | crazy wrote: house of the rising sun?
which came first?
They could be contemporaries, but AG is prolly a bit older. Wiki says it was first published in 1779. HotRS starts showing up in the early 1800's: it's exact origin and the house referenced therein is a matter of some debate. Wiki says a couple of 'hotels' in NO are candidates. Some say it refers to a women's prison in the area, which had a 'rising sun' motif over the gate.
Interesting stories behind both songs. Love the juxtaposition.
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Blind Boys of Alabama - Amazing Grace
(Dec 03, 2009 - 12:13) | olmstem wrote:
I was singing along for about 2 minutes before I realized that they had some different lyrics going from me there. Still nice... CCR meets Church... that's a good concept.
However... stealing music has been the ruin of many a poor boy.. um... band. ;)
Um, what? Both songs are in the public domain: you might as well say anyone who sings 'America the Beautiful' is stealing. Not to mention, the Blind Boys have nothing to prove: they not only are far from ruin, but are legends.
Just sayin'.
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Count Basie - Jumpin' at the Woodside
(Dec 02, 2009 - 13:33) | Love this tune. It also reminds me of the scene in Blazing Saddles where Clevon Little rides past the Count and his orchestra playing the accompaniment. Too funny.
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The Sandals - Theme from Endless Summer
(Nov 18, 2009 - 15:35) | alcal74 wrote: Okay so I just got done watching Step Into Liquid (a Dana Brown film) about surfing and no more than five minutes later this song comes on?
WTF...
You didn't know? RP has a freaky add-on: it taps directly into your brainwaves. It's in the disclaimer...
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Patty Griffin - Change
(Nov 18, 2009 - 08:37) | I recently saw her on Austin City Limits, doing a too-brief backup cameo for Elvis Costello. Unfortunately, Elvis' caterwauling overshadowed Ms. Griffin.
Don't start: I'm a huge fan of Elvis Costello. I'm not gonna pretend he's much of a singer though.
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The Heptones - Book of Rules
(Nov 18, 2009 - 07:47) | We'll be builders for eternity
Each is given a bag of tools
A shapeless mass and the book of rules
Pretty outstanding take on life, huh? Can't believe, as much as I like this song, I'd never really LISTENED to the message.
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Son Volt - Drown
(Nov 17, 2009 - 08:36) | Love that opening lick. Like setting a match to a big pile of dry brush. In a good way.
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The Doors - Five To One
(Nov 16, 2009 - 09:33) | keller1 wrote: Of the Doors' six albums this one may be the weakest but this tune and Unknown Soldier are worthwhile.
It's funny, I was only half listening, and thought 'this sounds like somebody trying to sound like The Doors'. Not bad, but nothing to write home about either.
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Feist - My Moon My Man
(Nov 12, 2009 - 08:00) | ick wrote: With those sounds at the end I keep waiting for the Count or Bert or Ernie... don't ask me why I remember sounds from Sesame Street, I just remember they used that type of thing a lot.
She did a great bit on Sesame Street with her 'one two three four' song. I think there's a link here somewhere.
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Led Zeppelin - Kashmir
(Nov 11, 2009 - 08:44) | I really like this song.
Unless I'm hearing it at halftime at a football game. The Longhorn Band plays it, FSM knows why. Let's just say the song does not lend itself to such an interpretation.
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The Republic Tigers - Golden Sand
(Nov 10, 2009 - 13:15) | mandolin wrote: ...do you think the republic tigers could beat up glass tiger?..
With one paw tied their backs.
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Patty Griffin - Little God
(Nov 09, 2009 - 14:32) | FrankMc wrote: She sounds like she is in pain. For such a talented girl she occasionally really goes in the ditch.
Um, some of the best music EVER was created out of pain. Sounding like she is in pain was the whole point of the song.
Not saying you hafta like it, just saying she made it sound exactly the way she wanted.
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Madrugada - Majesty
(Nov 04, 2009 - 15:05) | biomedvgh wrote: Ummm...you must be new here.
What gave it away?
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Ennio Morricone - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
(Nov 04, 2009 - 14:58) | jima2z wrote: Enough of the Yoko Ono music already........
Just kidding, a classic for sure. Also, I too recommend watching Gran Torino. Best Eastwood film EVER.
Saw it not long ago. Very tempted to agree. But dang I love 'Josey Wales' too. And 'Pale Rider'. And 'High Plains Drifter'. And, and, and...
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Johnny Cash - Hurt
(Nov 04, 2009 - 09:12) | helgigermany wrote: I cannot see a style in this song! What is it?
Johnny Cash.
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Patty Griffin - Change
(Oct 27, 2009 - 08:27) | lattalo wrote:
I understand that she lives in Austin, Texas.
She lives near Austin, in the Hill Country. Dripping Springs maybe?
Oh yeah, one more thing: she can rock your face clean off.
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Elton John - Border Song
(Oct 27, 2009 - 08:03) | On_The_Beach wrote: According to Bernie Taupin, he was a couple lines short of finishing the lyrics to this song. Elton found the nearly complete lyrics and added the final two lines:
There's a man over there; whats his colour, I dont care
He's my brother, let us live in peace
He then went ahead and recorded the song without consulting Taupin. Bernie was completely distraught when he discovered that such hackneyed lyrics would forever be credited to him.
I've heard that story before. Not surprising, given some of the dreck Sir Elton perpetrated without Bernie Taupin to keep him on track. Kind of makes you wonder how Bernie would have finished the lyric...
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John Prine - Living In The Future
(Oct 23, 2009 - 15:15) | Deronius wrote: "There's a hole in daddy's arm where all the money goes" Those are the first lyrics from John Prine that smacked me in the face and made me pay attention. I've been a fan ever since. Another fine product of the Old Town School of Folk Music.
That song, plus 'Muhlenburg County', sealed the deal for me: John Prine is great.
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Neil Young - Thrasher
(Oct 23, 2009 - 09:41) | I have not heard this song very many times, but I've always liked it. For some reason, hearing it here, now, it really strikes me deeply. The way 'Powderfinger' always does.
I went to the song meanings link and read a little bit, the interpretations make it all the more interesting. Somehow he takes something as trivial as the breakup of a band (albeit a legendary one) and turns it into a commentary on man's quest for truth. Or something like that. Whatever it is, it is magical.
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Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode
(Oct 21, 2009 - 14:15) | Mugro wrote: This earns a 10 simply because this song and this artist are cornerstones of rock and roll history.
Also helps that this song still rocks, 50 years on. Solid 10.
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Mazzy Star - Free
(Oct 21, 2009 - 13:16) | cvandoren wrote: First three ratings all a six. Seems unusually consistent for a divergent lot like us.
Who you callin' divergent? Speak for yourself, perv.
Wait, what?
j/k...
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The Kinks - Celluloid Heroes
(Oct 16, 2009 - 13:54) | bronorb wrote: Nice comments and while I enjoy a good movie as much as the next person, I tend not to place these people (actors) on such a high pedestal. All of them are mostly good at one thing, pretending to be someone else. Granted it is a skill I don't have and I respect that. But it is nothing more than a skill. Too many people (mostly young people) these days desire to be just like their favorite actor and it kind of scares me.
A good actor is not necessarily a good person.
Quite the opposite: some of the best actors have been absolutely intolerable human beings. But in many ways they're still our 'heroes', even if only on the screen. Which maybe is the point: they are not real heroes, merely celluloid ones.
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Paolo Nutini - High Hopes
(Oct 16, 2009 - 12:24) | DaMoGan wrote:
Totally right about the caribbean influence. There are shades of Bob Marley in his voice on this one.
I was thinking Jimmy Cliff.
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Drive-By Truckers - Sink Hole
(Oct 15, 2009 - 10:31) | EssexTex wrote: This makes me want to eat some pulled pork....or brisket.
Naw. Ribs. Right off the bone, greasy fingers and all.
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Neil Young - Throw Your Hatred Down
(Oct 15, 2009 - 08:19) | While this song is not one of my faves, it's still pretty great. What is most striking is the passion he puts into it. Forget technique and subtlety (Neil did), this is all about passion. Its passion elevates it from a sappy peacenik rant to a fiery declaration.
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Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain
(Oct 14, 2009 - 15:43) | I always just assumed Willie wrote this, he is so closely associated with it. Turns out it was written by Fred Rose and first recorded by Roy Acuff. Learn sumthin' new eva day, huh?
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Johnny Cash - Hurt
(Oct 12, 2009 - 09:51) | On_The_Beach wrote: Best video ever?
Best.
Video.
Ever.
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Dandy Livingstone - Rudy a Message to You
(Oct 09, 2009 - 08:54) | ericconrad wrote:One of the many reasons I love RP: I had never heard this original version. It's excellent! 
Agreed. This is truly wonderful. Thank you once again, Bill, for enlightening us.
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Jenny Lewis & The Watson Twins - You Are What You Love
(Oct 09, 2009 - 08:12) | ziggytrix wrote: well i was trying to find the video for this and found this instead. http://myspacetv.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=7733740 it's jenny singing a duet with a puppet...
Holy CARP! That was really amazing. Her command of tone is stunning. Made all the more so by the no-budget production of the clip. Wonderful!
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Feist - 1234
(Oct 07, 2009 - 07:46) | I saw her on Sesame Street, doing a reworked version of this song. It was great!
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The Derek Trucks Band - This Sky
(Oct 06, 2009 - 08:04) | Another guitar player with a completely unique sound. One or two notes, you know it's Derek Trucks. Simply outstanding.
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Elton John - Burn Down The Mission
(Sep 24, 2009 - 09:11) | mfassett wrote:
I think Blue Moves is a pretty good record, even if there are a few songs i can't stand on it... there are also some great songs on it.
you may the only other person who's ever heard of 'Blue Moves'. Some great songs on it. Some, uh, not-so-great ones too.
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Rodney Crowell - Sex and Gasoline
(Sep 18, 2009 - 14:40) | lmic wrote: W00t!!!
Quite biting, I must say.
I'll say. 'The Houston Kid' developed quite an attitude, huh?
I like it.
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Tom Waits - Frank's Wild Years
(Sep 18, 2009 - 13:01) | lmic wrote:
Sure! Seriously skunky! But sooooo easy to drink from that barrel-shaped jar. 
Reminds me of a restaurant review: "The food is terrible, and the portions are small too!"
I like this song though.
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Johnny Cash - The Man Comes Around
(Sep 18, 2009 - 10:53) | pannaramma wrote: I am not a Christian - to me this sounds like a man confronting his mortality and his voice reflects the pain and suffering of existence.
Ding ding ding! We have a winna! Nailed it.
And yet, there's an undertone of hope and redemption. Call it Christian if you want, Mr. Cash would, but maybe all of us have the potential for salvation, independent of any particular religious doctrine.
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Johnny Cash - The Man Comes Around
(Sep 18, 2009 - 10:50) | Gatlinburger wrote:
I agree with most of what you've said, but I have a problem with your statements as "of fact". That is still only your opinion, unless you have some inside information that you're not citing.
The man is dead. His music is all we have left of his true self. Don't presume to speak for him...
You're quite right. My words are just that: mine. My opinion, not fact. It's just what I take away from his music: does it REALLY reveal his true self? I like to think it does, which is why his music resonates so strongly. But you're right, I don't know for sure.
Rest In Peace, JR Cash. You earned it.
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Solomon Burke - None Of Us Are Free
(Sep 18, 2009 - 08:25) | Burg wrote:For a puritan like me it is difficult to listen for minutes on end to a grammatically incorrect line. Anxiously waiting for a cover ‘None of us IS free'.
You can't stand the opening line to Star Trek either, can you?
j/k. Sometimes the 'flow' of the words defies grammatical rules. Mr. Burke gets a pass on this one.
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The Moody Blues - Om
(Sep 17, 2009 - 09:08) | evenso wrote: I don't know how dated they are—as per Bill.
Anything that well crafted outshines style no matter how absurd it may have become. There is lots of stuff that seems to fit right in regardless of style because it is musically genuine.
The Moody Blues pulled that off then, just as the In Search of the Lost Chord still does now. They offset their grandiosity with even greater amounts of musicality.
P.S. I still like the album cover too. How many albums covers have that much to say about the content?
Indeed. They have always been over the top with grandiosity (is that a word?), to the point of pretentiousness, but, for what it is, I still like it.
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Elton John - Madman Across The Water
(Sep 17, 2009 - 08:40) | fredriley wrote:I've never heard it before, so am grateful to RP for playing it, and other more 'thoughtful' and subtle works from Reg Dwight of Pinner's repertoire. Mind you, I've always had a soft spot for our Reg, on account of his very active role in Watford FC (aka 'the greatest team the world has ever seen' :o)). 7 from the Nottingham jury.
What? Are you serious? No offense intended, and I'm really glad you like it, I'm just shocked you've never heard it before.
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Elton John - Madman Across The Water
(Sep 17, 2009 - 08:35) | nagsheadlocal wrote: Looking over the comments I see a number from folks who are coming to "early" Elton John - welcome! And check out this album on vinyl for the beautiful cover. A small CD case or the art on this webpage doesn't do it justice. It's all needlepoint on denim.
It's always been one of my favorite covers.
I used to want to recreate that album cover, but I realized how much work went into it. I knew there was no way I'd ever finish it. It has always been my fave album cover. And top three albums of all time, too. I even love the obscure stuff on it.
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Yoshida Brothers - Overland Blues
(Sep 16, 2009 - 08:23) | dwlangham wrote: I'll pay you not to play this again.
Sorry. I'm already paying him to play it once in awhile.
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Patty Griffin - Change
(Sep 16, 2009 - 08:13) | Carl wrote: Love this...
...
That's what slays me about Ms. Griffin. You see this petite little thing up on stage, and expect the same old folkie singer-songwriter schtick. Then she proceeds to pull your heart out of your chest, and depending on the song, either caress it with unmatched tenderness, or stomp it under her heels.
And when it's all over, her sweet little speaking voice says 'Thank you so much'. She plays to your deepest emotions, and thanks you for the privilege. Incredible.
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Doc Watson & David Grisman - Summertime
(Sep 15, 2009 - 13:49) | Pretty good for a blind guy, huh?
j/k. Doc Watson is the real deal, love all of his stuff. That other guy's okay too...
Would love to hear Doc's take on 'Columbus Stockade Blues' here sometime...
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Peter Rowan - The Free Mexican Airforce
(Sep 14, 2009 - 16:11) | karen wrote:
Methinks it must be Flaco. Takes me back to Austin - way back in 'dem ol' cosmic cowboy daze.
I think he's still playing. I saw him at Jovita's a few years back.
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Bright Eyes - We Are Nowhere and It's Now
(Sep 14, 2009 - 08:11) | Krispian wrote: Emmylou sounds wonderful in this song!
Absolutely. She'd sound wonderful singing a phone book, but hey.
After hearing this, I think I can die now, I have heard EVERYTHING: Emmylou Harris and Bright Eyes together? The mind reels...
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Stevie Wonder - I Wish
(Sep 09, 2009 - 09:44) | AdyMiles wrote: i think stevie wonder is overrated. had he not been blind i don't think he would've been very famous
Yeah, if Ray Charles hadn't been blind, nobody would've ever heard of him either. Nor Doc Watson for that matter. Heck, if Django Reinhardt had all his fingers, he'dve been a nobody.
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Sting - Shape of My Heart
(Sep 08, 2009 - 08:23) | This song, and the one about the women dancing alone, have an odd sort of emotional impact. Melancholy, I guess you'd call it.
I can totally understand those who've had quite enough of Sting. I thought The Police went downhill after 'Outlands' too.
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The Decemberists - Prelude -> The Queen's Approach
(Sep 03, 2009 - 09:01) | culchie wrote: Maybe I will grow tired of it, but I just changed my rating from a 7 to an 8 after I realized I am enjoying it more each time I hear it.......
Exactly. I didn't rate it the first couple times, but it's really growing on me.
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Jamie Stillway - Stout Street Rag
(Aug 31, 2009 - 11:35) | conglif wrote:You mean this "guy"?
And yes, 2005 (the year this album was made) IS definitely in the past.
Then again, ANY recording (by definition) is a "trip into the past"!
Funny-looking guy. Has all his fingers, too.
j/k. This is really outstanding: comparisons to Mr. Reinhardt (sp?) are apt, and high praise indeed.
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Madrugada - Majesty (Live)
(Aug 28, 2009 - 08:59) | anotherlistener wrote: Hey, Why fight it, I just bumped this up to a ten.
Dig. I just bumped the volume for maximum effect.
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The Smiths - Bigmouth Strikes Again
(Aug 27, 2009 - 09:03) | MacHazzer wrote:
You should try and read the Morrissey-solo forum...
In two minutes you'll be slashing your wrists...
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John Martyn - May You Never
(Aug 27, 2009 - 07:50) | MojoJojo wrote:
Had NO idea this was that old!  I mean that as a compliment, in that there is no hint of a "dated" sound - at least to me. Good stuff.
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Bo Diddley - Bo Diddley
(Aug 26, 2009 - 13:10) | jagdriver wrote:Who Do You Love?Bo Diddley's beat changed the course of rock music. And his lyrics evoked a history that reached all the way to Africa.
Complete story here.
great article, thanks for the link!
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Scissor Sisters - Take Your Mama Out
(Aug 26, 2009 - 11:25) | pianocomposer wrote: Wow. This is like they are channeling elton. Sounds great.
My thoughts too. I kind of like it, for what it is.
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Elvis Costello - Peace, Love and Understanding
(Aug 25, 2009 - 13:32) | crockydile wrote:Elvis sounds angry when he sings this. Contradiction? 
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The Republic Tigers - Golden Sand
(Aug 25, 2009 - 13:03) | suebee3 wrote:I like their sound, but it seems like they made up the lyrics as the music played.
I respectfully disagree. After a couple of listens, I'm hearing a real message. It's sort of a philosophy of living, which can be summarized as 'shut up and work'. Lines like 'turn bleeding hearts into bleeding hands' talk of putting your words into actions. The song is not entirely linear, but that's the basic message I come away with.
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The Cat Empire - Fishies
(Aug 24, 2009 - 13:02) | Saw them on David Letterman awhile back, maybe a year ago. Rocked the house, fun, funky, sorta silly. Dig.
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Santana - Samba Pa Ti
(Aug 21, 2009 - 08:36) | westslope wrote:It is a great song, a classic. But much of Santana makes me think of stoned listeners on the slow dial lookin' for some easy listening. 
Hey, if this is the 'easy listening' they're happy with, more power to 'em.
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Sonny Landreth - Howlin' Moon
(Aug 21, 2009 - 08:23) | Stefen wrote:
This man is an actor. And I suspect that he and Sonny were, at one time, both on the same freeway.
Naw, I scrolled back and found it: somebody was mishearing 'howlin' moon' as 'Powers Booth'. I have no idea why they felt compelled to post it, but somebody decided to run with it and post a pic of Mr. Booth. Who, if I recall right, played Jim Jones in the movie of the Jonestown massacre, to chilling effect.
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Phil Collins - In the Air Tonight
(Aug 20, 2009 - 08:15) | ptooey wrote: Man, I can't stand Phil Collins, but there's something about this song...
Exactly. He's done so much dreck, but this really holds up.
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Django Reinhardt - Beyond the Sea
(Aug 19, 2009 - 10:02) | Oscar_the_Grouch wrote: One of the best guitarists to have ever lived. Don't even think about arguing.
No argument here. Incredible.
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James McMurtry - Sixty Acres
(Aug 18, 2009 - 11:32) | pugifat wrote: What??? Is that you Nick Cave?
Naw, Mr. McMurtry is WAY more cynical than Mr. Cave.
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Propellerheads - History Repeating (w/ Shirley Bassey)
(Aug 18, 2009 - 08:25) | pophop wrote: More of this album belongs in rotation - "Send the next kid in..He's wearing velvet pants..." for instance
Okay, that line alone is worth the price of admission. If the other stuff on this album is half as good, I'm okay with it. Just diggin' that big voice. Yeah, maybe the cheese factor is a little high, but so what? It's fun.
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The Beatles - You Never Give Me/The End
(Aug 17, 2009 - 08:04) | WonderLizard wrote: Obviously, neither of these guys plays. If you did, you'd understand. I still have my first guitar ('67 Epiphone 12-string). You get attached to them.
Hey Liz, I was KIDDING! Willie Nelson give up 'Trigger'? Yeah, that's gonna happen. You are exactly right, and telling a musician like Sir Paul or Willie to get a new guitar is ludicrous.
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The Beatles - You Never Give Me/The End
(Aug 17, 2009 - 07:45) | mfassett wrote:
As far as McCartney on Letterman... didn't see it, just the promos, but really Paul.. get a new bass please. Sheesh. Change is good.
Yeah, really. Willy Nelson needs to dump his old guitar in the trash too. You seen that thing? Looks like it got drug through 50 miles of bad road. Sheesh man, you can afford a new one...
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Dave Edmunds - Crawling From The Wreckage
(Aug 14, 2009 - 08:01) | vandal wrote:This is an excellent cut from one of the kings of England's "Pub Rock" scene. With his hard edged rockabilly style, Dave Edmunds could blow the doors off most clubs, whether he was solo, with Brinsley Schwarz, or Rockpile.
Man, they could really crank it up, couldn't they? Gotta check out more of their catalog, what little there is...
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Ray Charles - Hit The Road Jack
(Aug 12, 2009 - 15:48) | jonahboo wrote:NOT A WOODY - BUT HERE IS OUR CRUIZER
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Alison Krauss - Choctaw Hayride
(Aug 10, 2009 - 11:31) | bokey wrote:
Her initial claim to mame was for fiddling, not singing.She was a bigtime contest winner as a kid. She hets PLENTY of respect for her playing,don't worry about that.
What he said. I think Ms. Krauss was playing the Opry at age twelve or something. She's got fiddle chops to burn.
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Old 97s - The New Kid
(Aug 06, 2009 - 08:19) | jameyp wrote:
Bill plays Rhett and Company occasionally. One of my fave groups. One of the best live shows you'll see, too.
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Elvis Costello - Watching The Detectives
(Aug 04, 2009 - 08:02) | toterola wrote:Excellent song from a classic album. 10+ from here. Now, here's why E. is a "giant": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzQrAPoTI58He wrote that song, just hoping George Jones would sing it. That, in and of itself is pretty freakin' cool. Elvis Costello is an iconic performer. I know he's not everyone's cup of tea, but dammit, he is excellent at what he does.
Holy Carp that's awesome! Chills. Now I've gotta go back and get those EC/BB recordings. I've always thought EC could do no wrong, and that vid confirms it.
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Elvis Costello - Monkey To Man
(Jul 31, 2009 - 08:20) | mortimer wrote: I saw Elvis Costello in a Lexus commercial last night. How punk.
Sheesh. The man is in his fifties and has scads of punk bona fides under his belt. AND he's married to Diana Krall! Let him enjoy a little luxury and make a few bucks.
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Patsy Cline - Walkin' After Midnight
(Jul 30, 2009 - 13:08) | jagdriver wrote: Now all we need is little Hank Williams once in awhile....
Bill does play Hank occasionally. Despite the howls from the 'no country, no way' contingent.
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Weather Report - Birdland
(Jul 21, 2009 - 10:08) | beinder wrote: Perhaps my favourite Birdland cover. I still have the vinyl somewhere.
As mentioned, this is the original version. Manhattan Transfer added lyrics, and it's been covered by a lot of folks.
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Weather Report - Birdland
(Jul 21, 2009 - 10:01) | I think Bill may have seen my FB page today, I mentioned this song. Or maybe he was reading my mind: he's done it before...
Go Jaco!
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Liz Phair - Uncle Alvarez
(Jul 21, 2009 - 08:38) | celadonstone wrote: Shouldnt this song be played before "Uncle Walter" by the Ben Folds Five...?
You nailed it. I knew there was another song with a similar theme, couldn't place it. Both songs are pretty disturbing. Good though.
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Bruce Springsteen - The River
(Jul 20, 2009 - 11:09) | steeler wrote: Is a dream a lie if it don't come true or is it something worse?
That line — alone — is worth the price of admission here. Stops me dead in my tracks each and every time. Afraid to know the answer; afraid not to know.
Bard. Indeed.
Thanks stiller, for bringing that line to my attention. Stunning. One of the, if not THE, best songs by Mr. Springsteen.
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Peter Case - On the Way Downtown
(Jul 20, 2009 - 08:59) | I swear Slaid Cleves sounds just like Peter Case! I would have sworn this was Slaid Cleves, who I adore. If this Case guy sticks with it, he might make something of himself...
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Rodney Crowell - Sex and Gasoline
(Jul 17, 2009 - 12:10) | alux wrote: Where did this dude come from? Love it.
Houston, actually. Was married to, and still collaborates with, Roseanne Cash. He's been around a long time, just never got the recognition some of his contemporaries have, e.g. Steve Earle.
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Old 97's - Jagged
(Jul 16, 2009 - 07:54) | jameyp wrote:LOVE LOVE LOVE the Old 97's!! I agree that RP needs to play a lot more of them. Also, they're one of the BEST live acts you'll ever have the pleasure to see 
What Jamey said.
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Neil Young - Down By The River
(Jul 13, 2009 - 09:12) | Mandible wrote: down by the river I shot my lady? Is that what he's singing?
Yep. 'I shot my woman down' is a long-standing theme in blues music, going back at least to the 1920's. No, it's not exactly politically correct, but hey.
My handle is based on a blues tune of the same name, first copyrighted by Ma Rainey in 1923. 'C.C. Rider's theme is shooting down a cheatin' lover. Jimi Hendrix's 'Hey Joe' is another (outstanding) example of the genre.
c.c. rider
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Joan Armatrading - Love and Affection
(Jul 06, 2009 - 13:12) | Jungle_Jim wrote: In a recent interview with Joan A, she said that she never tires of performing this song.
And I never get tired of hearing it. What an incredible song.
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Johnny Cash - The Man Comes Around
(Jul 01, 2009 - 10:44) | I am amused by the comments here. Not disgusted, just amused. Anybody who thinks JR Cash did this song, or pretty much any of his work, to make anyone else happy (besides June), is deluding themselves. Johnny Cash wrote and performed because he HAD to: it was in him and had to come out. The good, the bad, the ugly: for whatever reasons, he had to share some part of himself with the world. A big part of that was his religion, but religion was certainly not the only subject of his music. It was a big part of his life though, and to deny that part of himself would go against everything he was about.
Yes he was a commercial success, but do you really think he played all those prison gigs because he would make more money? He did it because he thought it was the right thing to do: to show the lowest among us some decency, to walk the words of The Man.
It's his world: we're just lucky he shared some of it with us.
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Keb Mo - She Just Wants To Dance
(Jul 01, 2009 - 07:42) | toterola wrote:I saw Kevin, on tour with Lyle Lovett, at the Cynthia Woods-Mitchell Pavilion in Houston. Me and a group of 9 friends. It was an amazing show. Good times!
I prolly saw him on the same tour, here in Austin at the Backyard, years ago now. I was REALLY impressed with him. Dig.
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Peter Tosh - Downpressor Man
(Jun 24, 2009 - 11:33) | RadioDoc wrote:
This is great especially in context. Also check out the "real" original by Nina Simone, "Sinnerman".
Too funny. Bill must've read your post, since this time, 'Sinnerman' was just played... Sweet.
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Nina Simone - Sinnerman
(Jun 24, 2009 - 11:32) | justlistening wrote:
LOL. Well Renee isn't exactly a "classic" beauty though - maybe best to say they're both handsome. As far as the music - not my favorite Nina Simone tune - probably more effective when watching the movie.
The cover photo appears heavily retouched, it hardly looks like her. I think 'handsome' is a suitable compliment, or maybe 'handsomely attractive'. Plus she showed her boobs in the movie, so there's that...
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Nina Simone - Sinnerman
(Jun 24, 2009 - 11:26) | ScottFromWyoming wrote: Glassy!
I'm starting this at a 7 but I like it a lot. Wish I could crank it tho, that'd probably get it to 8...
edit: Okay, it's an 8.
me too. Nina Simone singing a grocery list would rate at least a 6, so there you go.
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Otis Redding - I've Been Loving You Too Long
(Jun 24, 2009 - 09:15) | oufason wrote: The way he uses the inflection in his delivery to bring home the emotion is just brillant. It makes me sad when I hear to one of todays singers who seem to use inflection for inflections sake and it has no connectioin to the emotion of the song, they should be required to listen to Otis and Ray for a couple of hours.
Absolutely agree. Aaron Neville does it to annoying effect. He has such an incredible voice, but he layers on so much extra carp that it loses all emotional impact.
Otis Redding = Godlike.
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Mooncake - Nine Billion Names
(Jun 22, 2009 - 08:18) | diannemck56 wrote:Sounds a little like Death Cab for Cutie to me. But, I do like it.
Agree on both counts.
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Jump Little Children - Cathedrals
(Jun 19, 2009 - 07:54) | Koan wrote:
agreed! I think it's because I find the music more interesting, and his voice is more hopeless, plaintive, jagged, better matched to the song. the smooth beauty of Joan's vocals smooths out the images in the lyrics.
Agreed. Well said.
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Cake - Thrills
(Jun 15, 2009 - 09:35) | TampaPurple wrote: Once the horn player kicked in, I kicked my rating up a point. I've always loved the way Cake uses the horn.
Absolutely. Any band with horns gets another point from me.
c.
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Christians and Lions - Skinny Fists
(Jun 11, 2009 - 13:16) | Said it before, I'll say it again. Old 97s meet Conner Oberst. With a little Cake or Calexico (horns) thrown in. And i still like it.
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Cracker - Friends
(Jun 11, 2009 - 09:29) | I like Cracker, no matter what. Not something I'd want to listen to all the time, however...
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Johnny Cash - Ring of Fire
(Jun 10, 2009 - 08:29) | toterola wrote:This is the best version of the song, but I love Social Distortion's version of it.
Indeed. SD really tears into it, giving it the energy missing from this version. I know this is the original (studio) version, but it suffers from being overproduced. Mr. Cash (and a few others) did better versions of this legendary song.
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Ramones - I Wanna Live
(Jun 08, 2009 - 07:41) | I just realized Billy Idol ripped off these gentlemen. How could I have been so blind?
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Oasis - Falling Down
(Jun 02, 2009 - 08:18) | At the very beginning, I always think this is going to be Wall of Voodoo's 'Mexican Radio'.
And I'm disappointed when it's not.
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Violent Femmes - Crazy
(Jun 02, 2009 - 08:05) | lazylemming wrote: i would love a comprehensive list of people who have covered this gnarles barkley song.
i know it includes:
violent femmes
ray lamontagne
texas
jude
I would love to know WHY.
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Michelle Shocked - Secret to a Long Life
(May 29, 2009 - 08:48) | coy wrote: ah caent hep uf ahm enluv with michelle in all you doubters ar rong
Indeed. I share the sentiments of the gentleman from San Antonio.
'Sides, hes jes donna road a far piece, we'ze pracally neighbors.
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Hank Williams - Ramblin Man
(May 28, 2009 - 07:57) | toterola wrote:The strangest thing: Hank's membership in the Grand Old Opry was stripped away in 1952. He was never reinstated. They all like to write songs about him, and count him among their forebears and heroes. But they won't give him his due. Hank Williams, along with Jimmie Rogers and the Carter Family, formed the basis for what became country/western music. Bill, thanks for playing Hank. He is the epitome of a legendary artist.
Interesting. I guess they took his membership when he was fired for 'habitual drunkenness'. Oh well, it doesn't really matter: every songwriter recognizes Hank Williams' greatness. Even Leonard Cohen
Makes you wonder, if he had not suffered from spina bifida which gave him constant pain, would his music have been as powerful? Would he have drank himself into the grave at 29?
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The Republic Tigers - Golden Sand
(May 22, 2009 - 11:06) | This song is just so-so, but the lyrics are great. The part about 'turning bleeding hearts into bleeding hands' is a real stunner: I really like the sentiment.
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Chuck Berry - You Can't Catch Me
(May 22, 2009 - 10:49) | Hear the 'flattop' line? The Beatles might've heard this song before writing 'Come Together', you think?
Mr. Berry must've scared the bejabbers out of the establishment. Dang, he got it going ON!
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Rickie Lee Jones - Letters From The 9th Ward/Walk Away Rene
(May 21, 2009 - 16:21) | WonderLizard wrote:
Y'know, if Rolling Stone really wanted to perform a public service, what with its penchant for lists and all, it should compile something like "The 100 Greatest Premature Concert Exits." Elvis Costello might hold down the first five spots, along with Rickie Lee, Stills, John Lydon, and so on. It would be fair warning to anyone who plunks down cold cash only to have some petulant crybaby, who doesn't know how to work a room, get all huffy and split. Or get all drunky and splat.
I went to see Stanley Jordan once in Houston. Tickets were $25, which was a lot for a show in '91 or so. The crowd would NOT shut up, even after Mr. Jordan stopped playing, TWICE, to ask for quiet. Stanley Jordan was up there all by himself, playing that incredible stuff he does: how on earth is he supposed to 'work a room' while he's performing?
I have seen way too many performances ruined by the chattering of the audience. If people are not there for the music, then they should LEAVE. As much as it would pi$$ me off if a performer left in the middle of a show, I would not be pi$$ed at them, but at the audience that prompted such a response. Whatever happened to paying attention to the performer, the one you shelled out big bucks to see? Either shut up or get out.
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Joni Mitchell - Coyote
(May 21, 2009 - 13:12) | ThePoose wrote: I so miss the World`s Greatest Bassist: Jaco, inventor of the fretless electric bass, and along with Stanley Clarke, maker of the bass as a lead instument. He used pliers to rip out the ''speedbumps'' on his Fender and fills the grooves and fingerboard with epoxy.
I think Jaco Pastorius was the inventor of the 'destroy the hotel room' school of musicianship. Didn't he die from injuries sustained in a bar fight? Incredible musician, apparently not so incredible as a human bean.
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Coldplay + Buena Vista Social Club - Clocks
(May 21, 2009 - 09:32) | sharondraghi wrote: Sorry, but I just don't like Coldplay. I think their music is pretentious and ordinary. With all the great bands out there, why are they so famous??
I was going to post something like 'BVSC is so great, they can even make Coldplay sound cool'...
I'd listen to Buena Vista Social Club sing a phone book. Coldplay, not so much.
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Fats Domino - Whole Lotta Lovin'
(May 21, 2009 - 09:30) | cayenne wrote: Oh, man, I have such a dirty mind; I shouldn't even listen to this song. I'm sure he didn't mean this the way I'm hearing it.
No, of course he didn't. Pervert.
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Yoshida Brothers - Storm
(May 20, 2009 - 08:49) | HarrO wrote: Love it. Their "Overland Blues" is great too. Japanese Banjo Heads of the World dig this!
Yeah, I like that tune better, but this is a different style. After hearing Yes' 'Roundabout' just before, it's kind of an interesting comparison.
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Sonny Landreth - Broken Hearted Road
(May 19, 2009 - 09:28) | This is not what I've come to expect from Sonny Landreth ('South of I-10', 'Blue Tarp Blues', et al). But I'm diggin' it. It's got that swampy feeling about it.
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The Smiths - There Is A Light That Never Goes Out
(May 19, 2009 - 08:52) | Grizzly_old_man wrote:What a happy cheery song!! Real up beat and all that.
Well, yeah. The Smiths were always 'music to slash your wrists to'.
I still kinda like it though.
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Taj Mahal - Corinna
(May 18, 2009 - 08:55) | At the first word, you know it's Taj Mahal. His voice is not particularly great, or even unique. He just has something special. They don't come much cooler than Taj Mahal.
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Ennio Morricone - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
(May 14, 2009 - 14:25) | Fnords wrote:
Isn't there a tombstone at the end of HPD? . . . Check Wikipedia: Jim Duncan.
Ding Ding Ding!
more accurately, the GHOST of Jim Duncan. As in 'Pale Rider', the ending makes it appear he is more 'avenging angel' than man. Although in 'High Plains Drifter' he doesn't exactly engage in angelic behavior...
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Rick James - Super Freak
(May 08, 2009 - 11:32) | RadioDoc wrote:
If you are truly part of the "RP crowd", you don't worry about being PC. In fact, you don't worry about the "this doesn't belong on RP" crowd at all, as they just want to hear the same narrow, laser-targeted stuff you get on satellite radio. Which makes me wonder why they are here at all...
As for Rick, this is an 8+.
Quite true. The only thing us hardcore RP types worry about is, well, having our sweet sweet eye jelly eaten by a hawk.
This tune defines cheesy '80s 'funk'. I still give it a 7. Especially since now I think of Little Miss Sunshine instead of the horrid '80s.
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Mungo Jerry - In The Summertime
(May 07, 2009 - 11:00) | Hannio wrote: I was with a friend when this song came on the radio just as the acid started to come on strong. We thought for sure we had entered Bizarro world or something.
You see the album cover? DEFINITELY Bizarro World.
Dig the tune though.
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Uncle Tupelo - New Madrid
(May 07, 2009 - 10:19) | Kdubba wrote:
you must be a very down person....its ok...things will get better...
Not for him. Ol' Excel really seems to enjoy trashing this song: he's done it repeatedly. We understood his opinion the first time, just let it go.
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Uncle Tupelo - New Madrid
(May 07, 2009 - 10:16) | peter_james_bond wrote:Holy Smokes do these guys ever sound like Wilco and Son Volt!! 
Wow. What an incredible coincidence...
I keed.
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Carina Round - Down Slow
(May 06, 2009 - 09:10) | Sounds a lot like Luscious Jackson, does the band have former LJ members?
Like it. Like Luscious Jackson too.
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Ray LaMontagne - Be Here Now
(Apr 29, 2009 - 07:29) | rdo wrote: This reminds me so much of Nick Drake. I think it is fair to say it is an homage. This is truly a wonderful song.
Good call. No wonder Bill put Ray right after Nick. Very nice.
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Sonny Landreth - Howlin' Moon
(Apr 28, 2009 - 15:09) | jjbix wrote: This music and female singer reminds me of Marcia Ball; great singer, solid rock and roller, wonder whatever happened to her?
Still giggin'. She just celebrated her birthday, had a big bash at a local club. She can sure tear up the pianer, huh?
Mr. Landreth has very similar 'jump blues' roots, but takes it somewhat farther afield than Ms. Ball.
c.
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U2 - Moment Of Surrender
(Apr 24, 2009 - 13:23) | ick wrote: They should of quit last album. This effort from U2 sucks.
I agree. I really try not to slag artists on RP, but I can't help it. Lyrics about punching numbers into an ATM? You can't come up with anything better than THAT?
I was ready to like the new U2 album, especially when they spent a whole week on David Letterman. But I was sorely disappointed by the musical offerings presented there.
They strike me as decent enough chaps, and Bono really has done some good work around the world, but musically they seem to be out of ideas.
c.
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Wilco - Summerteeth
(Apr 21, 2009 - 09:04) | music_man wrote:
The music does put you in a better mood. Just don't pay attention to the lyrics.
No kidding. I just read them. I'm gonna go cry. Alone in my living room.
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Patty Griffin - Change
(Apr 20, 2009 - 12:53) | vandal wrote:9  10
Ding Ding Ding! We have a winna!
PG has the whole package: she can rock as hard as anyone, and she can sing a ballad to reduce you to tears. Stunning talent and ability.
c.
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George Harrison - All Things Must Pass
(Apr 17, 2009 - 09:23) | oldviolin wrote: Forever a beneficiary of the sublime
Love trickles in all directions
And some day will scour this beautiful earth...
One of the finest, if not THE finest, song comments ever. Thanks OV.
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Pearl Jam - Masters Of War (Live)
(Apr 17, 2009 - 09:09) | Hope the message here is not too subtle...
Dig it. I wish it was outdated, but I fear it will remain timely forever.
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Cowboy Junkies - Something More Besides You
(Apr 09, 2009 - 11:55) | This song was used to great effect in an episode of 'Homicide: Life on the Street.' I've always liked the song, but after seeing that scene, it was really cemented for me.
c.
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Neil Young - A Man Needs a Maid
(Apr 08, 2009 - 08:45) | jnhashmi wrote: Everyone talks about how teen pop music is overproduced, but this song is so overproduced as to be laughable. At least overproduced pop music works for what it is. This song is way over the top. It's almost a joke. Did Phil Spector have something to do with this?
I agree. It's a real disappointment. I'd rather hear him sing this accompanied only by his guitar: the strings suck the emotion out of the song.
c.
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Eagle-Eye Cherry - Desireless
(Apr 08, 2009 - 08:28) | gabbadar wrote: Eagle-Eye Cherry, aren't they the ones who produced that awful song that got so played so much years ago? This is nice.
Indeed. EEC was the last band I would have guessed this to be. Definitely redemption for that other dreck.
c.
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Ray LaMontagne - Let It Be Me
(Apr 06, 2009 - 14:37) | vivakitty wrote: I'd put this album on for a little quiet time on the couch with a sweetie. IfyouknowwhatImeanandIthinkyoudo.
Your RL name is 'Amy', isn't it? Just guessing from your tagline: us EJ fans gotta stick together. Oh yeah: IknowwhatyoumeanandIthinkRayisgreattoo.
c.
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Tom Petty - Changed The Locks
(Mar 31, 2009 - 07:55) | ScopArch wrote: I really like Lucinda's trademark "Twang" better on this song.
Yeah, her twang and her anger really make her version. Tom is merely doing an homage here, it lacks the fire of Ms. Williams' version.
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Benny Goodman - Sing, Sing, Sing
(Mar 30, 2009 - 12:38) | It's a shame the recording technology of the day couldn't capture the whole sonic spectrum. It seems a bit tinny, or hollow or something, I don't know. Love this song though.
c.
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Jeff Buckley - Last Goodbye
(Mar 27, 2009 - 10:39) | rtwingo wrote: cc_rider wrote: From the first note, this song makes me an emotional wreck. Oddly, I think that's why I love it.
Don't agree with that statement!
cc_rider (should have) wrote: From the first note, this album makes me an emotional wreck. Oddly, I think that's why I love it. Now, that's better.
Thanks for fixing my post.
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Chris Isaak - I Wonder
(Mar 27, 2009 - 08:16) | Dangit Bill, you did it again!
The melancholy note of this tune fits the way I feel to a tee. Dang.
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Snow Patrol - Lifeboats
(Mar 26, 2009 - 10:07) | ercasul wrote:If I ever see Snow Patrol live, it'll come as quite a shock to discover they actually don't look like Katherine Heigl. Thanks to *that song* and *that TV show* that's the picture that comes into my head when I hear them. And I have to say I'm grateful, it's a great picture.
Thanks. I was gonna get some work done today, but after that, noooooo...
c.
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Memphis Slim - Lonesome
(Mar 25, 2009 - 11:53) | Rantipole wrote: The sound quality on this is terrible.
True. Good thing the quality of the material shines through.
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ZZ Top - I'm Bad I'm Nationwide
(Mar 19, 2009 - 10:11) | HE!! to the YEAH!
Still dig the Little Ol' Band from Texas. It ain't rocket science, just solid rock and roll.
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Violent Femmes - Gone Daddy Gone
(Mar 19, 2009 - 09:19) | jhorton wrote:
You need to get out of Wisconsin.
Trust me, this sucks!
I don't trust anyone who says 'Trust Me'. Sorry.
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Michelle Shocked - The L&N Don't Stop Here Anymore
(Mar 11, 2009 - 14:53) | rcurrier wrote: Railroads make such great imagery for songwriters.
And I'm such a sucker for them.
This one's got trains AND coal. Always reminds me of John Prine's 'Muhlenburg County'.
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Willis Alan Ramsey - Ballad of Spider John
(Mar 11, 2009 - 11:43) | go_ski_mully wrote:Forgot how much I loved this Jimmy Buffet song! ..whoever this dude is I like the cover muchly! ...I shall raise a rum filled tropical drink to the my lips (as long as the boss ain't watch'n?) in support of covering an early Jimmy classic! 
I used to think this was one of Mr. Buffet's songs too: his was the only version I'd ever heard. Always loved this song, regardless.
c.
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Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass - Zorba The Greek
(Mar 06, 2009 - 07:32) | Peace_tode wrote: Incredible playing!! VERY difficult.
I can't imagine more than a sparse handful of players having the ability to play that, with no slop in the notes: Herb makes every note pop. Unbelievable.
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B.B. King - See That My Grave Is Kept Clean
(Mar 05, 2009 - 16:32) | I read some of the comments, and noticed many were less than positive. So I checked the release date of the album. About six months ago. B.B. King is, what, 80 years old? And still recording and touring? He can sit on stage and pick his nose if he wants to, he has earned it.
I agree it's not as solid and tight as most of his work, but considering the context, Mr. King has nothing to be ashamed of. In some ways, this song's lack of polish harkens back to the blues of folks like Muddy Waters and Huddie Ledbetter: loose and raw.
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Hank Dogs - 18 Dogs
(Mar 03, 2009 - 07:48) | peyotecoyote wrote: gotta git it!
This tune is prolly not the best on the CD. Highly recommended.
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Hank Dogs - 18 Dogs
(Mar 03, 2009 - 07:46) | MojoJojo wrote:I would, but somebody let the dogs out. Not sure who. 
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Neil Young - Cortez The Killer
(Mar 03, 2009 - 07:45) | dmax wrote: This song belongs in the same legendary category as Low Spark of High Heeled Boys or Music for 18 Musicians where it takes itself to another environment, another listening space, and then lives there for a while. It doesn't matter that it goes on for so long. It's not a three minute power pop tune.
Neil knows that, which is why he's clearly not in any hurry to rush it along or get it over with.
Brilliant. I don't love every thing he's done, but this one is extraordinary.
What?!?! You don't love 'TRANS' ? And you call yourself a fan...
j/k,
c.
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Gomez - Airstream Driver
(Mar 02, 2009 - 08:24) | I like this more every time I hear it. I have no idea why.
Although Airstreams ARE cool...
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Hank Williams - Settin' The Woods On Fire
(Feb 27, 2009 - 11:46) | ThePoose wrote: Jesse Winchester wrote and sings a great song called Hank and Lefty Raised My Country Soul.
Hank Williams was one of a kind. Too bad he died a few months before I was born.
It was New Year's Eve 1952 when Hank keeled over at the age of 29 in his Caddy
en route to a concert.
Extra Credit question: Where was his last gig?
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Timbuk 3 - The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades
(Feb 26, 2009 - 08:29) | keller1 wrote: A 5.7 for this tune and yet Cake, purveyors of the same type of smartass fratboy humor, consistently get 7s?
Sometimes I wonder what, if anything, RP listeners are thinking.
Timbuk 3's philosophy was diametrically opposed to s.f.h. They made this in the 80's when their situation was DIRE. They lived on the streets for a short time, and made money busking on 6th Street. This song is a vicious reaction to what they saw all around them: smartass fratboys drinking themselves silly.
Just sayin',
c.
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Norah Jones - Sinkin' Soon
(Feb 25, 2009 - 14:19) | Love this funky stuff from Ms. Jones.
She and her band did a local interview awhile back, apparently they were doing small gigs around Dallas (?) using various aliases. One of them was 'The Well Hungarians', but eventually they had to quit using it 'cause there was already another band with the name. Too funny. She sounds like a fun person to hang out with.
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Björk - Atlantic
(Feb 18, 2009 - 10:02) | I like this. I thought I was supposed to be able to understand the words, thankfully I'm not. I dig the groove of it, sort of like Burt Bacharach doing Bossa Nova.
It's cool to heard Bjork doing something almost 'conventional'. Almost.
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Johnny Cash - Get Rhythm
(Feb 12, 2009 - 13:10) | russteaches wrote: I love Cash, but this isn't his best effort.
I agree. It still gets an 8 from me though.
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Billie Holiday - Gimmie a Pigfoot (And a Bottle of Beer)
(Feb 06, 2009 - 09:57) | vit wrote:
Dude dis Nina Simone like that and she'll come back from the other side and shoot ya.
Oh, I have no doubt Ms. Simone would open up a can on a disser. I don't think this song is really her style either. Although to be fair, she could sing ANYTHING well, and would've torn this one up too. I think of her differently than Bessie, Willie Mae, and Mildred though: she had a FAR wider musical range than they did.
c.
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Beck - Guess I'm Doing Fine
(Feb 06, 2009 - 07:10) | Zep wrote: Thought we were getting a new mash-up of "Golden Age" there.
Perzactly my thought. And I'm okay with that: GA is one of my fave Beck tunes.
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The New Pornographers - The Bleeding Heart Show
(Feb 06, 2009 - 07:08) | greyfin10 wrote:Aye, the artist must eat to continue to create art. No art is completely pure and divorced from the physical realm from which it is spawned, and so this concept of "sell-out" is often taken to extremes. For me, I would only cry sell-out if I perceived an artist is motivated purely by profit and is therefore creating "beneath his or her abilities" just to pander. That's awfully hard to prove. And even if someone sells-out... I still sort of understand people getting disillusioned. Its sad of course, but artists are people first, and they've got to live their lives as best they see fit. I'll grant you that cynicism can turn to evil given time, but that's rare.
A true example of a sell-out (imho) would be the Post-"If You Leave Me Now" Chicago. And like I say, I can't blame them for loving those paychecks... even though I was disappointed when everything I liked about the band disappeared.
peter_james_bond wrote:
Absolutely right! What does sell out mean anyhow in this day and age? It's an obsolete term. The New Pornographers are not super stars, they don't sell millions of records. They've got bills to pay, so bully for them if they are able to sell a song to a business or university or whatever. If it enables them to keep making records I'm all for it. Artistic integrity doesn't mean much if you can't pay the rent.
Another vote for selling your music so you can eat. Neko Case and company have nothing to prove to anyone, but they DO have bills to pay. It's just the end bit of the song anyway. It's not NEARLY as egregious as Carnival using Iggy Pop (of all people!)
There are a handful of artists who have done commercials yet cannot be construed as sell-outs. BB King is the one who pops to mind, shilling for diabetes devices. He has earned that luxury, lock stock and Lucille.
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Texas Flood
(Feb 05, 2009 - 13:15) | stkman wrote: Its strange I grew up watchin' Jimmie play at local clubs, I'm a year older and spent many a hour watchin' him at the "Cellar" and later the "Thunderbirds" were the "hot" band in Austin while Stevie was still playin dives. Jimmie was and still is a amazing guitar player but allways seemed close to breaking out like he did early in his younger days, he really seemed more reserved. Stevie said Jimmie was the better of the two and in his knowledge of guitarists and music may have been right but Jimmy couldn't go out and shake the crowd up like Stevie. I can remember Stevie playin at club outside of Austin and nobody was payin' this young kid any attention, they were busy playin' pool and hustlin' women and I sat in folding chair about 5 feet away from him and watched him play and we went out in parkin' lot for lil "break" and I mentioned his brother and he raved about how good he was and wished he was that good and we chatted a lil bit about blues greats and Hendrix since I had seen Jimi several times and told him about a friend I had in HS that could play Jimi's stuff note for note. Guess we sat out there for about half a hour then went back in with big grins on our faces and I sat back in my chair and he started showin me what he really knew about that guitar and what he knew about Jimi , by end of set nobody was playin pool they all were sittin' in awe as he just tore it up and gave me a wink. I did see him later once with his brother watchin' and Jimmie had a look of proudness and he came out on stage and played like I hadn't heard him play in years. I would have loved to sat and watch the two pass it back and forth in private because Jimmie really is a great guitar player.
Thanks for that story. I know a few folks who dis Jimmie 'cause he treated his snot-nose kid brother mean. But I always hoped it was the normal kid stuff brothers do, and he grew out of it. Your story confirms my hopes.
Stevie Ray had that magical something. Jimmie is very, very good, but somehow he still lacks that magic ingredient. I wish I knew what it was, or even just how to explain it better.
c.
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John Prine - Please Don't Bury Me
(Feb 05, 2009 - 09:18) | I love John Prine. He can write silly stuff like this, a la Roger Miller, and he can write songs like 'Angel From Montgomery' and 'Muhlenburg County'.
This ain't everyone's cuppa, but hey...
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Crosby Stills Nash & Young - Country Girl
(Feb 05, 2009 - 07:30) | stevesaw wrote: I like hearing this after Arcade Fire - I never realized before there's some real similarities between the two.
Y'know, if I hadn't been listening, Id've said you were out of your mind. But I'm with you. In a good way. Dig.
c.
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Jeff Buckley - Last Goodbye
(Jan 23, 2009 - 08:13) | Amnesia wrote:Has anyone realize how many songs talking about death have been played???
I have no idea what you're talking about...
j/k. This set is one of Bill's 'theme' series.
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Riviera Paradise
(Jan 13, 2009 - 10:15) | RedTopFireBelow wrote:I've made a CD of music I want played at my wake, and Riveria Paradise is one of those selections. It's one of the most beautiful songs ever written and ranks up there with Moonlight Sonata and Stormy Monday. I could never thank Stevie Ray enough for leaving us his music.
I think I'm gonna add it to MY list too. Every time I hear it, wow.
Y'know, since Stevie didn't read music, I wonder if it was 'written' per se. No matter: it is truly Outstanding.
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Beck - Golden Age
(Jan 08, 2009 - 11:05) | I think this is my new theme song. Bill played it for me yesterday, and today's replay just solidifies it.
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Michelle Shocked - Come a Long Way
(Jan 04, 2009 - 14:02) | rconlon wrote: How about some original songs. All her songs were recorded previously by someone else. That Anchoring in Anchorage she did was done by Aztec-Two step way back.
Her website indicates 'Anchorage' was copywritten in 1988. By Michelle Shocked.
MOST of her songs are originals. If you go to her website it has detailed information about every song. On 'Short Sharp Shocked', only 'L&N' is not her original.
Just saying.
c.
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Steve Earle - Copperhead Road
(Jan 04, 2009 - 10:58) | toterola wrote:I'm unclear, after reading this: was the band Steve Earle and the Dukes, or did they just give you a Steve Earle c.d.? Ol' Steve is one of a kind. He is the only other Socialist country musician I know of, besides Woody Guthrie. Steve's music being played on RP makes up for a lot of "MC 900 Foot Jesus" and "Cloud Cult" that gets a spin or two on here, now and again. Y'all "haters" keep your powder dry. If we all liked the same thing, there would only be one flavor at Baskin-Robbins.
See also: Todd Schneider. Love his stuff too.
That was a good story, and it sure could have been Mr. Earle hizownself. I sort of doubt any band would give away a CD that was not 'theirs'.
c.
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Mudcrutch - Bootleg Flyer
(Jan 04, 2009 - 10:54) | snowcat wrote:OK, let's follow this with Stephen Stills' Treetop Flyer 
I like Tom Petty's latest (earliest?) incarnation...
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Harry Belafonte - Banana Boat Song
(Jan 02, 2009 - 16:45) | mwsteele79 wrote:
Considering what they've had to overcome, I'm not surprised they are (and in Robeson's case, was) angry and bitter. Perfectly normal human reaction.
Quite. Exactly my point.
Peace,
c.
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Johnny Cash - Ghost Riders In The Sky
(Dec 10, 2008 - 15:54) | thewiseking wrote: love Johnny but this is not a great version of this. this Vaughn Monroe version is definitive
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xsfw9CEQITA
Agreed. J.R. kinda seems to be phoning this one in.
c.
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Dire Straits - Brothers In Arms
(Dec 08, 2008 - 14:38) | 1wolfy wrote: I've never been a soldier..never felt the pain, the fear, the sorrow..God bless our Brothers in Arms...keep them from harm..may they come home to those who love and miss them (fully intact).
AMEN.
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Dire Straits - Brothers In Arms
(Dec 08, 2008 - 14:37) | Aegean wrote:
Really? Hmmm....
In the first verse, a chastened narrator laments his youthful eagerness for battle, which he now considers to have been a mistake (And you'll no longer burn/ To be brothers in arms), one that has forever torn him from the peaceful life he once knew (But my home is the lowlands/ And always will be) and left him irreparably damaged, alienated and isolated (These mist covered mountains/ Are a home now for me).
In the second verse, he wistfully recalls the bonds of loyalty a shared adversity had created between himself and his comrades (Through these fields of destruction/ Baptisms of fire.../ You did not desert me/ My brothers in arms).
In the third verse, he has shed the blinders of his youthful ignorance to realize that, although there are countless stars and planets in the vastness of the universe (There's so many different worlds/ So many different suns), we who inhabit one and the same planet have allowed the artificial barriers of culture and nationalism to fragmented us into mutually hostile camps (And we have just one world/ But we live in different ones).
In the final verse, he has stepped back to recognize what now has become obvious to him (But it's written in the starlight/ And every line on your palm), that those he and his brothers in arms had thought of as "the enemy" also considered themselves brothers in arms, within their own borders. He concludes that not only his comrades, but also their adversaries are his brothers in arms, and that he had been a fool to make war on them (Were fools to make war/ On our brothers in arms).
Seems pretty straightforward to me. Perhaps you had to be there. I learned my lessons in Vietnam. A new generation is now learning its lessons in Iraq which, like Vietnam, is a country that never attacked us.
"Brothers in Arms" is arguably the most melodically sublime antiwar song since Buffy Sainte-Marie's "Universal Soldier". If you don't know about Buffy Sainte-Marie, check her out here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGWsGyNsw00
I wanted to repost this in its entirety, something I rarely do, because it is so outstanding. You implied you were 'in country': my hat is off to you, my hand is on my heart, and we are all forever in your debt.
Peace,
c.
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B.B. King - The Thrill Is Gone
(Nov 26, 2008 - 11:02) | bam23 wrote: There can only be a very small number of musicians whose performance of one note can cause me to hear it at a subliminal level and know what song is being played. This is one of those songs.
Indeed. Lucille (all of them) has a unique sound. B.B. King's music reaches some part of the brain that precedes conscious thought.
c.
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Joni Mitchell - River
(Nov 26, 2008 - 09:53) | SantaFeGrace wrote: I like Xmas music....but not until at least after Thanksgiving!
I don't lump this in with Holiday music. It's certainly not ABOUT the holidays, just set during the time of year. Such a poignant song. Loves me some Joni.
c.
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The New Pornographers - The Laws Have Changed
(Nov 25, 2008 - 11:25) | ROSSinDETROIT wrote: Somebody please find out what makes this so completely stupendous and rub it all over the radio pop bands.
Indeed! This is straight up pop, but it does not suck!
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Counting Crows - Sullivan Street
(Nov 25, 2008 - 09:55) | Mugro wrote:
 I love this song. Dunno why, just love it. That is all.
c.
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Fairport Convention - Matty Groves
(Nov 20, 2008 - 08:19) | PurplePrincess wrote: I learned this song as "Shady Grove"...It must have had many incarnations...This is a good version, never heard it before.
yeah, I think the tune is one of those 'traditional' ones that has hundreds of versions. I like F.C.s 'Roving Minstrels' song too, but this suits Sandy Denny's voice even better! Wonderful stuff.
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My Morning Jacket - Librarian
(Nov 14, 2008 - 09:07) | BLADERUNNER wrote:
Ah, that Bogey was such a smoothie, eh??
Oh man, you had me at 'The Big Sleep'. I have not been able to decipher the whole plot, it's so convoluted and full of holes. But with dialogue like that, who cares?
Another memorable broa... er, lady is the snappy cab driver. Same movie, right? Sometimes Bogie movies run together...
"I remember every detail. The Germans wore gray. You wore blue."
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My Morning Jacket - Librarian
(Nov 14, 2008 - 08:59) | I'm bumping this to a 9. Wow. It sounds old, like Bobby Goldsboro, but without the cheese.
And tidbits like 'the interwebs' give it away, but still, this is amazing.
It's not Godlike for me yet, but it's easily Outstanding.
c.
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Feist - My Moon My Man
(Nov 14, 2008 - 08:42) | GChevy410 wrote:
HA HA HA HA You think some Verizon Marketing Person has a great sense of humor too? Or just typical corporate America missing the point (which of course is even more hystarical)
Remember the Motorola commercial that used the Rolling Stones' 'You Can't Always Get What You Want'? Talk about missing the point.
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Feist - My Moon My Man
(Nov 14, 2008 - 08:40) | jenakle wrote:damn you all for tainting this song ... 
Oh man, that was bad.
Bravo!
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Elton John - Levon
(Nov 10, 2008 - 12:10) | Bocephus wrote: Did Taupin just get really stoned and write down whatever came into his head? Lyrics make no sense at all—fortunately Elton's singing makes up for it.
I think many of Bernie's lyrics are kind of 'stream of consciousness' rather than a well-defined narrative. Some of his stuff just doesn't make much sense. But it sets a mood, a feeling. I can't really explain it. 'Dancing about Architecture' I guess.
I love all this old E.J. stuff.
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Ray LaMontagne - Empty
(Nov 06, 2008 - 09:40) | birdland wrote:
I was messin' with ya. Mr. Van Zandt is a minor deity in these parts. J.R. Cash is a major one of course. Thanks for posting the link though!
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Patty Griffin - Chief
(Oct 22, 2008 - 14:16) | I wonder if this song is about Ira Hayes. Maybe Ira Hayes' story is just one element of a larger tapestry...
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John Hiatt - Cry Love
(Oct 20, 2008 - 10:06) | E_A_D_G wrote:
...
John has come full circle to embrace life, love and the pursuit of happiness. A true inspiration and worthy role model not to mention the most insightful songwriter since Woody Guthrie and Robert Zimmerman.
Who the heck is that?
Kidding...
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Michelle Shocked - Secret to a Long Life
(Oct 20, 2008 - 08:25) | mwsteele79 wrote: I can't figure out if "Michelle Shocked" is supposed to be cutesy, clever, or poetic... she gets a 1/10 just for the name.
She could call herself 'painful rectal itch' and I'd STILL like her music. Her body of work is outstanding. One reason she is not better known is because her albums do not stick to one genre. 'Short Sharp Shocked' is probably my fave, but I like 'em all.
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Michelle Shocked - Secret to a Long Life
(Oct 20, 2008 - 08:22) | grimid wrote:City Slicker: You're not too far from a durn fool, are you? Country Feller: Just a barbed-wire fence between us. 
City Slicker: Have you lived here all your life?
Country Feller: Not yet.
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Buddy Mondlock - Comin' Down in the Rain
(Oct 13, 2008 - 12:32) | FlamingLotus wrote: Who is the background singer?
At first I thought it might be Iris DeMent, but at the end it's definitely Patty Griffin. Very nice.
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The Doors - Spanish Caravan
(Oct 08, 2008 - 09:49) | What a flawless segue. I had to look to see if somehow the Doors had hooked up with Senor De Lucia.
Bill does it again!
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Soft Hearted Scientists - Diving Bell
(Oct 08, 2008 - 09:14) | esotericderek wrote: The dream took a disturbing detour into one mans private hell. I dreamt I could see Billy Ray Cyrus sitting in Satans waiting room. He was being forced to play Achy Breaky Heart repeatedly on a one-string banjo, while all around him demons with flaming mullets line danced like maniacs. Apparently this was retribution for the misery he had inflicted on humanity with that horrible song and his contribution to the sinister spread of the boot scootin phenomenon. In his thirty-second break he told me through his tears he had promised to slice off his mullet if only the Devil would spare his soul. But the Devil would not be swayed. He said, No, Billy, for the song, the line dancing, and the mullet....all these transgressions are far too great to allow you any mercy. Man, you just gotta love that.
Thank you for posting it. I tried the 'song lyrics' link but it horked. I love that segment.
Love the Moody Blues/prog rock spoof. And it sounds good even if you don't listen to the lyrics.
c.
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Dave Matthews Band - Seek Up
(Oct 03, 2008 - 08:17) | katherinenz wrote: RIP LeRoi Moore
Wow. I didn't know that. Sad.
It still amazes me how much venom DMB generates. I've always liked him, even when they were getting played TO DEATH on the radio. Maybe I'm just weird.
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The Kinks - Celluloid Heroes
(Oct 02, 2008 - 08:11) | People who appreciate old movies, and know some of the stories behind them, understand this song. See 'The Misfits' with Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, and Montgomery Clift. Eli Wallach too, I think. Unfortunately, it was both Clark Gable's and Marilyn Monroe's last movie.
Watch 'Raintree County' with Liz Taylor and Monty Clift. During the filming, Monty got drunk and drove off the road, suffering considerable injuries, particularly to his face. Liz was the first one on the scene, and saved his life by removing his busted teeth from his mouth, otherwise he would have choked to death.
Watch 'The Kid' with Charlie Chaplin and Jackie Coogan. Guess what other character Mr. Coogan played, much later in life of course: Uncle Fester on the Addam's Family.
Watch the ultimate commentary on Hollywood, 'Sunset Boulevard' with Gloria Swanson, William Holden, and Eric Von Stroheim. Gloria Swanson was a huge star in the silent era, Eric Von Stroheim was a huge director. And they played washed-up, pathetic relics from that glorious past. Stunning.
Movies are our history. Movie stars are our heroes: some deserved, some not so much. This song is a wonderful tribute to all of those long ago (and not so long ago) heroes: it captures the melancholy that permeates 'Sunset Boulevard', the sense that all fame is fleeting, and someday every star, no matter how bright, ends up being just another piece of sidewalk.
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Billy Bragg & Wilco - Way Over Yonder in the Minor Key
(Oct 01, 2008 - 11:51) | Excelsior wrote: No more thorough way to destroy a graet Woody Guthrie song than to include Billy Bragg, Wilco, AND Natalie Merchant in the same track. Might as well set the original recording on fire and run it over with a truck.
Just to drive the point home, this IS the original recording! You can rag on Billy, Nat and the gang all you want, but they rescued Woody Guthrie's work from extinction.
These albums were made with the deepest respect for the man. And the full support of his family: they really feel Billy and Co. captured the way Woody would have performed the songs.
Some of the songs are silly, written only for his children, or even just some random thoughts. So not all of them are insightful gems, I'll grant you that. And Billy Bragg's voice is, well, an acquired taste, to be kind. But if these fine folks had not done these albums, these little snippets of Mr. Guthrie's genius would have been lost entirely.
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Patty Griffin - Tony
(Oct 01, 2008 - 09:32) | Patty Griffin - Goddess.
What a song. The story, the voice. Wow.
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Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain
(Sep 30, 2008 - 12:24) | This whole album rates a 10 for me.
Story from my childhood: at camp, our cabin counselor would put this album on his record player EVERY MORNING. We hated it: whiny and grating. (Willie Nelson was too, ha!) It was only later I realized the genius of this album. Now, it rates among the top ten albums ever made. In my humble opinion, of course.
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The Cinematic Orchestra - To Build A Home
(Sep 29, 2008 - 12:43) | Excelsior wrote:
Because neither one has anything of substance, and both are effective substitutes for tranquilizers?
You say that like it's a bad thing...
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My Morning Jacket - Librarian
(Sep 29, 2008 - 12:34) | This isn't the first time I've heard this, but it's the first time I LISTENED. Wow. This song is really amazing.
For a while I thought new artists just can't write songs like the 'old masters'. I'm quite happy to be proven wrong.
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Nick Lowe - Peace, Love And Understanding
(Sep 29, 2008 - 12:29) | apd wrote:
I uploaded it from a cd produced by a local (Toronto) radio station (Q107) and i'm not sure if it's still available - it's from the late 90's. But you could try eBay. The rest of the cd is excellent too - it's a collection of in-studio performances, mostly local bands, similarly unplugged.
There is a similar version on a KGSR compilation CD. First time I heard it, I sat in my car in the driveway until it was over. Wow.
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Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass - Zorba The Greek
(Sep 29, 2008 - 11:32) | lazywhinerkid wrote: Awesome track. If you've ever played trumpet, you'll understand just how freaking impressive this really is. Oh man, triple tonguing — really difficult to do and make it sound good.
My band director used to tell a story about Ol' Herb. Apparently he could walk up to a trumpet suspended on a wire, and blow a 'C' above the staff, no hands. Incredible.
Not only that, he's the 'A' in 'A&M Records', so he's something of a businessman as well.
Go Herb!
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Fairport Convention - Come All Ye
(Sep 29, 2008 - 09:26) | The more I hear this, the more I like it.
Is it just me, or is there sort of a new folk protest movement coming around? Pete Seeger is still fightin' the good fight of course, but he's inspired (and working with) a new batch of folks doing similar stuff. Maybe it's the spirit of the age, replaying the turmoil of the 60's. Maybe it's just me.
c.
edit: 7—>8
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Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - Where The Wild Roses Grow (w/Kylie Minogue)
(Sep 29, 2008 - 08:36) | robco1 wrote: Murder always seems to be so entertaining to those who have never lost someone to violence. So to those who find this entertaining, I sincerely hope you always can.
If you have lost someone to violence, my sincerest condolences. I cannot imagine how much something like that affects a person. I personally have not suffered through that, but do know some people who have. I can't tell you how to feel about a song like this, I'll just offer another take on it.
This song is about an act of senseless violence. Said The Master of the Obvious. But I still like it. Is it 'entertaining'? Well, no, not in a feel-good get-happy kind of way. Duh. It tells a story, a gruesome, horrible story. Bob Dylan's 'Hattie Carroll' tells a similar story of violence, with a dose of social commentary thrown in. And that one's a true story. This one is more in the 'Frankenstein' vein, a story of pure horror. It's SUPPOSED to be upsetting. It's supposed to shock and disgust you. For some people I'm sure it brings up REAL horrors. And if they need to turn this off, or give it a 1, or tell folks how much this song hurts them, that's cool. I'm just saying I like this song. I would never call it 'entertaining' though, not by a long shot.
Again, my sincerest condolences for your loss.
Peace,
c.
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Yeska - Fideo
(Sep 24, 2008 - 07:57) | acampos wrote: I am not crazy about this SKA-Latinjazz experiment, but the piano is fastastic. Do yo know who is it?
I AM crazy about this Ska-Latin Jazz experiment! Very cool!
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The Gap Band - You Dropped A Bomb On Me
(Sep 22, 2008 - 15:44) | Never in a million years would I have expected this from Bill. I love it!
This was big when I was in H.S: in the morning you could hear that whistle all over the parking lot. I don't miss those days one bit, but I sure like this music. Funk it up, baby!
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John Hiatt - Lift Up Every Stone
(Sep 19, 2008 - 09:34) | Excelsior wrote:Who the HELL in their right mind could ever find this enjoyable? 
Well, I find it enjoyable. I may not be in my right mind, but hey.
One thing I like about it is the 'Shut Up and Work' message: instead of whining about things, go out there and DO SOMETHING. I used to think I should start a new religion, well, maybe just a church: The Church of the Hammer and the Saw. No building, no services, no 'congregation': instead of retreating into a building to yak about being a good person, you go out and BE a good person. Pick up trash. Deliver Meals on Wheels. Spend your Saturday with Habitat for Humanity, that'll get you out of Sunday 'services'.
Mr. Hiatt's song could serve as the 'call to worship'.
c.
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Gregg Allman - Midnight Rider
(Sep 19, 2008 - 08:13) | Zep wrote: Why do I remember a completely different version of this song?
'Cause it's been covered quite a bit. Hank Williams Jr. had a popular (in some circles) version.
c.
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Mudcrutch - Shady Grove
(Sep 19, 2008 - 07:56) | rubenbeagle wrote: Surely one of the best (maybe the best) version I have heard of this song........great instrumentation and vocals.
Dig. I really like Tom Petty's take on bluegrass. Cool.
c.
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Ray LaMontagne - Empty
(Sep 18, 2008 - 15:56) | birdland wrote:
Yeah, I saw him pay tribute to Townes and John Cash. Nice show. He's sure soft spoken.
Who?
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Wilco - Passenger Side
(Sep 18, 2008 - 07:55) | vivakitty wrote: For very personal reasons, this song makes me cry and smile at the same time.
Sounds like there's am interesting story there...
(from one Elton John fan to another)
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Wilco - Passenger Side
(Sep 18, 2008 - 07:54) | Excelsior wrote:And now this trailer-trash crap is playing AGAIN.
Naw, it ain't Shakespeare, and it sure ain't Pavarotti, but it's real life.
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Steve Earle - Copperhead Road
(Sep 16, 2008 - 11:32) | EssexTex wrote:Or a 79 Chevy Caprice Classic in gold with police spotlight still attached!
You've seen my front yard?
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Pearl Jam - Black
(Sep 16, 2008 - 08:04) | bokey wrote:
Someones always going to say you suck no matter how good you are . You just gotta say f*** 'em and move on.Unless you're a Christian rocker, then you should accept it cause you shouldn't say f*** and besides it's probably true,you do suck.
Bokey, you're the best. Thanks.
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Doc Watson - Windy and Warm
(Sep 11, 2008 - 13:56) | lemmoth wrote: Joni Mitchell????
Wiki says: "At the age of nine, Mitchell contracted polio during a Canadian epidemic, but recovered after a stay in the hospital. It was during this time that she first became interested in singing."
It left her with some difficulties, such as tiring easily. It's one reason she does not tour extensively. I think it also contributes to the 'breathy' quality of her voice: some people can't stand it, but I like it.
c.
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Elbow - Grounds For Divorce
(Sep 05, 2008 - 11:36) |
"I've been working on a cocktail called Grounds for Divorce"
That line alone gets it a 7. Dig it.
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Poe - Hey Pretty (Spoken Version)
(Sep 03, 2008 - 11:37) | UltraNurd wrote:
The banana is definitely throwing the horns, which as far as I know is the symbol for rocking out throughout the US. Dunno about elsewhere.
Also the symbol for the Texas Longhorns.
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Neil Young - Cortez The Killer
(Sep 03, 2008 - 09:23) | Otomi wrote:Hiroshima. Nagasaki. North Korea. Operation Rolling Thunder. Collateral damage. Belgrade. Shock and Awe. How many innocent people were killed over six decades? Who are we to judge Moteuczoma or other rulers of Mexico Tenochtitlan? To understand pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican culture one needs to dig a bit deeper than the Encyclopaedia Britannica. Here's a link to get started: FAMSI.
Add 'Trail of Tears', 'Wounded Knee', and a host of other atrocities us Westerners have committed against indigenous peoples.
Neil merely decided to use an older example of such actions to tell the story. The characters change, but, uh, the song remains the same.
Peace,
c.
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Harry Belafonte - Banana Boat Song
(Aug 29, 2008 - 12:02) | thewiseking wrote: a nice little pleasant ditty.
who knew Belafonte would turn out to be such an angry prick
I know exactly what you mean. Paul Robeson was a real jerk too. Oh wait, so is Sidney Poitier. And William Cosby.
c.
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Fleet Foxes - White Winter Hymnal
(Aug 28, 2008 - 15:50) | you wrote: Beautiful song. Good choice. Play more Fleet Foxes!
Is there such a thing as a SLOW fox? Just wondering.
I like this. I don't know why.
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Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros - Get Down Moses
(Aug 28, 2008 - 12:41) | xkolibuul wrote: The tune is "Bhindi bhagee" but you're right, covers both mushy peas and Joe's musical categories. Bill plays it here occasionally, off Global a Go Go.
Yeppers, thanks. I checked it the other day. Love the CDs: Mr. Strummer gets extra VOLUME when he's on...
c.
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Peter Gabriel - Biko
(Aug 28, 2008 - 10:04) | garthwb wrote: Steve Biko IS a hero to the people of my beautiful, beleaguered land. It WAS a tragedy, and a brutal misuse of power, as well as a miscarriage of justice in the aftermath, but he WAS NOT a martyr, he did not give himself willingly up to die a martyr's death, he simply died after being brutalised and clubbed, in what was otherwise meant to be a routine arrest/questioning. Thus it was tragic, and he is still a hero to all people fighting to end civil rights injustices, but there is always a tendency to factually enlarge upon an ACTUAL situation. His life was, and still is, infinitely more important than his death, what he fought for, along with millions of others, was the great legacy he left us.
Thank you. Thank you so much for helping us understand a complex, hideous situation.
Peace,
c.
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Fats Domino - Blue Monday
(Aug 28, 2008 - 08:36) | Here's to Fats. Go man go.
And here's hoping he does not get flooded out AGAIN. He still lives in the Ninth Ward. Best wishes.
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Johnny Cash - Hurt
(Aug 27, 2008 - 12:49) | Work, stopped. Heart, broken.
You will live forever, J.R.
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Camera Obscura - Tears for Affairs
(Aug 27, 2008 - 08:28) | spraehbuer wrote:Let the wallpaper speak for itself! 
Indeed. Free Speech for wallpaper everywhere! Down with wallpaper censorship!
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Doc Watson - Windy and Warm
(Aug 26, 2008 - 15:19) | Glockman45 wrote: making fun of anyones disabilities or handicaps is not nice. Your from TX, you should know better?
Sheesh, you guys are sensitive. It was just a joke: obviously some of the finest musicians EVER just happen to be blind or otherwise handicapped. Hmmm, let's see: Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Doc Watson, Art Tatum, Jose Feliciano, Ronnie Milsap, (Blind) Lemon Jefferson, The (Blind) Boys of Alabama, Django Reinhart (missing fingers), Joni Mitchell and Itzak Perlman (polio), the list goes on and on.
If there was a way to trade my sight for their talent, it'd be an easy decision.
Peace,
c.
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A Fine Frenzy - Rangers
(Aug 25, 2008 - 09:38) | philbertr wrote: Ohhh, you're right! Wow, that is spooky! (But she certainly doesn't look like Cass!)
Sandwich, anyone?
Sorry, too easy.
I like this.
c.
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Crash Test Dummies - Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm
(Aug 22, 2008 - 16:13) | nate917 wrote:
No, that distinction is actually held by "Billy Don't Be a Hero" by Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods.
Excuse me? "Seasons in the Sun"? Satan has a special wing reserved for Terry Jacks.
As weird as this song is, I don't mind it that much.
c.
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Rubén González - Mandinga
(Aug 21, 2008 - 12:06) | I gave it a 9 after a short listen. Now that I've heard Sr. Gonzalez's freestyling, it's pushing into 10 territory. Wow.
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Ben Folds - Still Fighting It
(Aug 21, 2008 - 09:53) | theirishtickler wrote: what genre would you classify ben folds?
Why bother? Labels are for canned goods, baby.
c.
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Apollo Four Forty - The Man with the Harmonica
(Aug 20, 2008 - 12:43) | tobstar wrote: normally I'd say not as good as the original but quite franky anything that makes me think about Once Upon A Time In The West is a good thing
Oh man yes. That scene where you first see Claudia Cardinale, sticking her head out the window of the train? Holy smokes that woman was hot!
The opening scene, with Jack Elam and the fly, is priceless too. Great movie.
c.
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ZZ Top - Just Got Paid
(Aug 20, 2008 - 11:36) | woozurbuddy wrote: I grew up in Texas and we were all into ZZ as a regional band through their first two albums. Their third, Tres Hombres, shot them to national status in 1973. For my money, this is possible their best cut ever, off of their second album called Rio Grande Mud. The entire album is killer - download it today! (and ZZTop's First Album, which was more raw and just as great)....
What about 'Manic Mechanic'?
The Top's early stuff is by far their best. Nice to hear Bill play some stuff many people dismiss as 'classic rock'.
c.
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Beth Orton - Anywhere
(Aug 20, 2008 - 08:56) | I am sucker for horns. Man, those horns sound sweet. I dig Ms. Orton too: saw her at ACL some years back. Cursed like a sailor, which was kind of funny to hear.
c.
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Gillian Welch - Caleb Meyer
(Aug 19, 2008 - 14:00) | Love Ms. Welch and this song. Reminds me of a story one of my ex's co-workers told her years ago. The co-worker was a great guy but his wife was very shy, painfully so. Well, turns out there was a reason:
Her first marriage was to an abusive drunk: no details required there, suffice to say it was nightmarish. She finally mustered the courage to leave him one night while he was out drinking. When he got home in the wee hours, she was gone. He flew in to a rage, and in his haste to track her down and beat the daylights out of her, he neglected to open the sliding glass door. Smashed through it and bled to death on the spot.
It's nice to know karma works sometimes. Ol' Caleb gettin' his jugular sliced open falls somewhere near that category...
c.
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Johnny Cash - The Man Comes Around
(Aug 19, 2008 - 09:45) | Misterfixit wrote: He sings of the one hundred million angels singing ... there are two more there now, Brother Johnny and the Love of his life who went Home before him and where they both dwell in Eternal Harmony.
I'm quoting your post again because it deserves it. Well said.
J.R. Cash earned the right to compose and sing whatever he wanted: he had nothing left to prove to anyone (as if he ever really did.) Some like it, some don't, and that's okay too. Personally, this is one of his strongest, i.e. most personal and powerful, original compositions. 'Hurt' may be his strongest (again, personal and powerful) cover.
While I'm not in the same religious camp as the Cashes, I can feel the power of their words and music. Stunning.
c.
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Morcheeba - The Sea
(Aug 19, 2008 - 08:38) | brett_k wrote:This really makes me want a doobie 
Michael McDonald? I think you can book him for birthdays and bar mitzvahs.
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Morcheeba - The Sea
(Aug 19, 2008 - 08:35) | themotion wrote: Flocking to the sea
Crowds of people wait for me
Sea gulls scavenge
Steal ice cream
Worries vanish
Within my dream I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free Fishing boats sail past the shore
No singing may-day any more
The sun is shining
The Water's clear
Just you and I walk along the pier I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free A cool breeze flows but mind the wasp
Some get stung it's worth the cost
I'd love to stay
The city calls me home
More hassles fuss and lies on the phone I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control with you,
And living, living,
And I, living, by the sea The whole song? Really?
Dig. I love the groove of this tune. And the lyrics. c.
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The Cardigans - You're The Storm
(Aug 18, 2008 - 15:40) | Govi wrote: *chews bubblegum, pops it, blows bubble, sucks it back in and cleans the remainder from her lips, all the while looking cute in knee socks and plaid miniskirt, with dark brown penny loafers, wondering why she's hearing bubble-gum music on an eclectic station*
That's the genius of The Cardigans. The music sounds light as air, but the lyrics are often viciously cynical. Definitely not bubble-gum fare.
c.
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Martha Wainwright - See Emily Play
(Aug 18, 2008 - 08:13) | This song fits perfectly with the album title: not exactly feel-good material, hard to pin down. I like most everything Loudo's kids do, including this.
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Cake - Mahna Mahna
(Aug 15, 2008 - 12:00) | onemorebyte wrote: I just found my new ring tone!!!!!! LMFAOROTFL
Found it. Done. Normally I hate goofy ringtones, but this one makes me think of the Muppets every time it rings.
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Dave Matthews Band - Digging A Ditch
(Aug 13, 2008 - 15:52) | goldberry wrote:Love his music, and I get all of his albums.  Hate his fans, can't go to shows without fear of being assulted.
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Robert Earl Keen - The Road Goes On Forever
(Aug 11, 2008 - 15:08) | frednic wrote:
This sounds like Guy Clark.
Overall I think Mr. Clark is a better songwriter, but Mr. Keen's 'West Textures' is hard to beat.
This song is like 'Freebird' to me: I've heard it a million times, live, covered, you name it, and I STILL really dig it. Neck, red? Check.
c.
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Robert Earl Keen - The Road Goes On Forever
(Aug 11, 2008 - 15:05) | Hannio wrote:
I didn't either until I moved here and found out what a great place it is with genuinely friendly people.
Pi$$ off, a44hole.
Just kidding, from 78703.
c.
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Marc Cohn - Dance Back From The Grave
(Aug 04, 2008 - 07:47) | vit wrote:
Man this is totally unfair, but for some reason I always saw Marc Cohn as some sort of New Orleans poser. No reason ... I just don't believe his authenticity when it comes to that town. I think it's because he's just not badass enough. I just get the feeling that the Dirty Dozen Brass Band would stuff this guy in a tuba then blow him into the gulf. Still, this one gets a ho-hum from me; partially because it was played twice in 24 hours. The playlist is too big for that kind of chicanery.
I don't think he is a 'poser' so much as a 'wanna-be'. Like his 'Walkin' in Memphis': he is not of the town, but loves its spirit, and wants to be as much a part of it as he can. I do not think he pretends to be the real deal: he loves the place and wants to show it.
To use the band you mentioned, I think if he was at a DDBB show he'd be in the front row showin' props to the real men of New Orleans. Plus I think the Dozen would invite him up on the stage to sit in, maybe do this tune for an encore or something.
I'm liking this song more and more, actually. No, of course it's not real New Orleans music, and Mr. Cohn is well aware of it.
Now, Sonny Landreth and his new 'Blue Tarp Blues', that's a different story. Joe Bob says check it out...
c.
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Miles Davis - Nature Boy
(Jul 31, 2008 - 10:43) | ziggytrix wrote:
did Joe Jackson rip this melody off for his song Fools in Love?
If you're gonna steal, steal from the best.
I think 'homage' is a better term though...
c.
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Miles Davis - Nature Boy
(Jul 31, 2008 - 10:41) | First that Coltrane guy, now this Miles whats-his-name. Bill keeps finding new artists all the time...
(hey, Bokey started it)
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John Coltrane - Naima
(Jul 31, 2008 - 09:51) | jenakle wrote:
comes with a sudden inkling to catch up on bad soap operas to see who's sleeping with who now this has sultry hussy in black negligee all over it
I agree. Which is why I gave it an eight. Different strokes, baby.
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B.B. King - Standing on The Edge of Love
(Jul 30, 2008 - 16:42) | Bokey, you are a nut. I wish I had done it!
I've seen Mr. King perform several times: stunning every time. I think he's still touring: James Brown was great and all, but Mr. King is the REAL 'hardest workin' man in show business'...
c.
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Mississippi John Hurt - Salty Dog Blues
(Jul 30, 2008 - 09:28) | steeler wrote:
When I lived in Chicago, I would go to the Chicago BluesFest each summer. Often, they would bring back "rediscovered" old black bluesmen (and sometimes women). They would track them down, sometimes deep into the piney woods, in some rural setting, and whisk them to Chitown. Sometimes these elderly musicians would have to be helped onstage, but when they got to, say the piano, they would just wail. Amazing stuff.
The Armadillo in Austin did similar things. And The Grey Ghost played Austin right up until his death. Pinetop Perkins lives near here too: Antone's had a big b'day bash for him recently.
Sort of like the story of Buena Vista Social Club: finding these great artists, long since retired (or more likely quit playing to get 'real' jobs), and sharing their talent with a world that's finally ready to appreciate them!
c.
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Zero 7 - Futures
(Jul 30, 2008 - 09:01) | auburntigerrich wrote:
Stick to Simple Things; the first album, I think. There are also some sweet tunes on When It Falls, but it has skippable moments.
That's not skipping, they put it in there on purpose. Every time I hear it, I get the urge to PM Bill to let him know.
I'm kidding. You said 'skippable', so I ran with it. Then tripped and fell.
Nice segue into Echo...
c.
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Neko Case & Her Boyfriends - Furnace Room Lullaby
(Jul 30, 2008 - 08:51) | pherthyl wrote:
I wouldn't call it country cause she's not singing about her truck, her deadbeat man, or her dog. Big difference.
Also no banjo or dobro, and violins instead of 'fiddles'.
xoxox,
c.
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James McMurtry - Good Life
(Jul 29, 2008 - 14:58) | jadewahoo wrote:
This guy's tongue-in-cheek lyrics are a hoot!
The gent grew up around Lubbock. I think it's less tongue-in-cheek than it is thinly veiled contempt. Definitely hoot-worthy, regardless.
c.
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James McMurtry - Good Life
(Jul 29, 2008 - 14:55) | mefrombrazil wrote:
i like JMM's songs. seems like JOHN MELLENCAMP.
Mr. McMurtry is WAY more bitter and cynical than Mr. Mellencamp. Sound IS a tad similar though.
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Grateful Dead - Ripple
(Jul 29, 2008 - 14:49) | lwilkinson wrote:
Of course! I've always thought that this would be a great part of a eulogy where the preacher has the organ player do the song and everyone has sheet lyrics to follow alone and sing at the funeral.  
What a nice thought. I imagine it outside though: guitar accompaniment instead of organ. Nice.
c.
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Animals - House of the Rising Sun
(Jul 29, 2008 - 09:56) | WonderLizard wrote:
An epiphany—especially when you learned that this very British invasion song's roots were in the brothels of New Orleans. Also evidence, as if anyone needed any, that Burdon may have been the vocalist/frontman, but the Animals were Alan Price's band. A B3 tour de force—even with the Picardy third ending.
The history of this song is really interesting. The original version (?) has the singer as a woman, and the 'House' may refer to a prison or a brothel. Same thing, kinda.
Storyville is the most likely setting: it was the most notorious of N.O.s red-light districts. Long since destroyed, along with a lot of shady history...
c.
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Vienna Teng - Passage
(Jul 23, 2008 - 08:15) | Shesdifferent wrote: This album is most excellent, unfortunately I had to edit this song out for a friend who's 25 year old daughter really did die in a car crash, man that was a close call when I turned her on to this....chilling but beautifully sad song.
Wow. Yeah, you did the right thing. This song does ME in: I can't imagine what it would do in that case.
Stunning song. Takes real ability to sing it without accompaniment too.
c.
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Neil Young - Out On The Weekend
(Jul 21, 2008 - 13:54) | LaurieinTucson wrote:
Somehow the combination of his voice, melody, lyrics, beat all just moves me. The thing I like most about his voice is the raw honesty, the lack of professional sheen.
Indeed. Bumping to 9.
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Ennio Morricone - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
(Jul 18, 2008 - 14:47) | jpfueler wrote: In the script he had a name. Joe I think. But in the movies, his name is never mentioned.
One line is "I didn't get your name" his reply was "I didn't give it"
Inside the Actor's Studio did ask him what the character's name was.
edit:
se the above link. Joe was the name in the scripts, but never used. All the other names were what others called the character in the films.
Bonus round: Clint's character's name in 'High Plains Drifter'. Easier one: 'Pale Rider'.
c.
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Miles Davis - Freddie Freeloader
(Jul 18, 2008 - 09:51) | redeyespy wrote:
I don't disagree. However, his work has taken on its own life, so whatever sort of man he was is utterly irrelevant.
As stated here before (multiple times), if fans only choose to appreciate works by artists who were/are decent, nice folks, your "acceptable" list would be quite a bit thinner than you might expect.
I seem to recall Mr. Davis telling a story about Bird: on their way to a gig in the limo, Bird was burnin' a fatty, shooting up, and getting, uh, serviced. While Miles was sitting there.
'Jazz' musicians are not generally known to be Boy Scouts...
c.
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Miles Davis - Freddie Freeloader
(Jul 18, 2008 - 09:45) | Johray63 wrote:
It seems they don't get your inside RP joke, cc_rider! To much Jazz (although Davis hated that label)
happens all the time...
I'm not a fan of labels myself. Dancing about Architecture, y'know.
Mr. Davis is sublime.
c.
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Poi Dog Pondering - Bury Me Deep
(Jul 16, 2008 - 13:50) | wally42 wrote: I love this entire CD!
How about "Spending the Day in the Shirt That You Wore"?
Outstanding. I love this band. Saw them live a few times. What a show.
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John Prine and Bonnie Raitt - Angel from Montgomery
(Jul 16, 2008 - 11:47) | Painted_Turtle wrote:
I heard that Steve Goodman may have also contributed to writing the song. I do know he and John Prine were hanging out in Chicago bars together at the time. I believe this album won a Grammy
No way. John Prine, in a BAR? Hard to imagine.
Kidding of course. I suspect you're right.
I grew up in Montgomery, so this song is dear. Although, as far as I'm concerned, Monkey-town is a good place to be FROM.
c.
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Shawn Mullins - Tannin Bed Song
(Jul 11, 2008 - 13:41) | SoundsGoodToMe wrote: This is like a checklist for things to include in a country song:
Trailer park. Check.
double wide. Check.
pabst blue ribbon. Check.
missin' letters. Check.
Naw. REAL country is single wides. Them double wides is what those dang uppity neighbors got, down the road a piece. Ever since they took the wheels off'n that thing, they'ze been putting on airs like they'ze royalty or sumting.
Shawn Mullins is pretty good. I think he'll get better too.
c.
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Patty Griffin - Blue Sky
(Jul 10, 2008 - 14:09) | gandalfbmg wrote: This song always makes even the crappiest day seem better for about 3 minutes... No matter how down I am I immediately find my spirits lifting with the first sound of the crunchy guitars...
I needed that today. Thanks Bill and Patty!
Patty? Is Bill seeing someone behind Rebecca's back? For shame, Bill...
Just messin' with you. Patti Griffin IS wonderful, isn't she?
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Neil Young - Harvest Moon
(Jul 09, 2008 - 16:53) | jpfueler wrote: Yes he can..just not very well. He plays guitar as well, just not as well as many others.
Neil is a story teller and not a singer. I wish he'd stick to toy trains and leave the singing like this to folks who can hold a better tone.
You know the story about the trains, don't you? It was all for his son, who has cerebral palsy. He single-handedly saved the Lionel company from going under.
Neil Young has more talent in his toenail clippings than 99% of what passes for musicians these days. No, he ain't everybody's cuppa, I'll grant you that. But he wouldn't still be making music, and selling out shows, if he didn't have something on the ball.
c.
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Neil Young - Harvest Moon
(Jul 09, 2008 - 16:45) | krich58 wrote: The voice holds so much more emotion than any instrument ever could. Singers don't have to sing perfectly to get emotion across.
And that's kinda what music is about...getting emotions across using sounds. Good performers are able to project their emotions. Whether or not you can tune into it is a different story.
Dig.
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Albert King - Born Under a Bad Sign
(Jul 09, 2008 - 15:11) | smdeeg wrote:
Definitely, but makes sense as it's his song. Written specifically for him by the excellent Booker T Jones.
Albert was the King of the Kings of the blues. RIP
Dig. I loves me some B.B. also, but dang, Albert had it goin' ON!
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Yoshida Brothers - Overland Blues
(Jul 09, 2008 - 14:16) | bokey wrote: How cool is this? I dunno, it's so cool I just have sit here in my uncoolness and wish I was that cool.
You're not sitting here alone. You're still uncool of course, but you're not alone.
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Joni Mitchell - Coyote
(Jul 09, 2008 - 12:46) | pompinizzle wrote: Stop.
Please.
Just go park in some coffee shop
This is the only time Ive ever rated a song based on negative sentiment, although its more based on what Ive heard of her collective work than this one song. There was actually something on here yesterday, (The Jungle Line), that was worse than this; this was just the last straw. Usually I figure that something I dont enjoy isnt worth my trouble, but I think this is the third time Ive had to endure her this weekend - enough already. No beef with her as a person, but her scattered, warbling voice and style is consistently annoying.
I was only a child in the 60s, but she strikes me as some personification of several of the more negative stereotypes from that era. To close on a nice note, (kind of), she reminds me of Dylan a little, (except that I like Dylan).
That's a lot of verbiage for something you dislike so strongly. Just change the channel, y'know?
c.
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Fats Domino - Whole Lotta Lovin'
(Jul 09, 2008 - 09:37) | Mina_the_Boo wrote:
Yep. Both are New Orleans songs.Iko Iko is more or a Mardi Gras thing and Fats is clearly an icon.
Indeed. I'm pretty sure Mr. Domino still lives in the Ninth Ward, just down the street from the house he grew up in. Or at least DID until Katrina.
c.
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Elton John - Burn Down The Mission
(Jul 08, 2008 - 17:38) | redeyespy wrote: I've been listening to this album tonight for the last half hour. I turn on RP, and then....love these sort of coincidences. Or perhaps this occurence is of the Celestine variety?
Either way, this is a fabulous album, start to finish.
Dig. I'ma go home and put it on. I've listened to album a hundred times or more. Still awesome.
c.
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Elvis Costello - Beyond Belief
(Jul 07, 2008 - 14:28) | ThePoose wrote: Now, in his 50s, he will be writing daddy music: he knocked up my fellow Canuck Diana but good:she's as big as a house with twins and ready to drop by this Christmas.
Heck, I'm okay with that. The world could use some more DECENT 'daddy music'. Trout Fishing in America and They Might Be Giants come to mind.
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Elvis Costello - Beyond Belief
(Jul 07, 2008 - 14:25) | andrewimft wrote:
He's a great singer with a vocal texture that's an acquired taste. The amazing thing is how great he is musically as a singer. When you listen to the harmonies and the notes he hits perfectly in his backing vocals, like on Hoover Factory or some of his soul tinged or chorus laden harmony songs or on the Get Happy CD, you're just blown away. It is awesome.
The irony is that his voice sort of has a wretched tone quality he was born with yet he's perfected the art of singing as a musician. And I believe he's taught his wife Diana Krall how to sing. She's the opposite-- her vocal texture is pretty yet in the past her delivery was so casual it had no depth and no feeling and was dreadfully dull. Since they've been together, she's developed much more depth of tone and feeling and her phrasing is so much better. I can't but help believe he's taught her how to really sing.
Well said. I saw him here a few years ago, just him and his piano player (from the Attractions maybe?) I was expecting a mellow 'unplugged'-ish show, but even with just two of them, they blew the doors off the joint. Awesome musician and performer.
c.
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Elton John - Where To Now St. Peter
(Jul 07, 2008 - 13:56) | Mike_S wrote: I took myself a blue canoe
And I floated like a leaf
Dazzling, dancing,
Half enchanted
In my Merlin sheep
Crazy was the feeling
Restless were my eyes
Insane they took the paddles
My arms they paralysed
So, where to now St. Peter
If it's true I'm in your hands
I may not be a Christian
But I've done all one man can
I understand I'm on the road
Where all that was is gone
So where to now St. Peter
Show me which road I'm on
Which road I'm on
It took a sweet young foreign gun
This lazy life is short
Something for nothing always ending
With a bad report
Dirty was the daybreak
Sudden was the change
In such a silent place as this
Beyond the rifle range
As many times as I've listened to this album, I never really got that this song is about a soldier killed in battle. Makes it all the more powerful.
c.
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Blind Faith - Can't Find My Way Home
(Jul 02, 2008 - 09:32) | RadioDoc wrote:
Some quarters need to get over themselves and lighten up.
Some quarters think nothing of blowing up innocent 10 year old girls in the name of "security" but god help us all if one of their nipples makes it into a photo.
Excellent point!
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Uncle Tupelo - Moonshiner
(Jul 01, 2008 - 10:40) | poopypants wrote:"I spend all my money on whiskey and beer"
Preach on Brotha! 
Yeah, it's like I have a twin...
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Uncle Tupelo - Moonshiner
(Jul 01, 2008 - 10:39) | etwilson wrote:
I'm right here with you. As far as I'm concerned, Uncle Tupelo could do no wrong.
Dig.
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The Avalanches - Frontier Psychiatrist
(Jul 01, 2008 - 10:24) | UltraNurd wrote: Why was this song played on Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas?
If anybody needs therapy, it's probably on those days...
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Etta James - Hound Dog
(Jun 30, 2008 - 09:20) | jhorton wrote: This song is the audio equivalent of your mom catching you with your hot high-school girlfriend.
Blecccchhhhh!!!!
No. Your girlfriend catchin' you with HER hot Mom!
Ms. James puts the 'dawg' in the hound.
Still, it ain't Big Mama...
c.
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New Order - Love Vigilantes
(Jun 26, 2008 - 16:24) | WLS_AM890 wrote:
...
Substitue a dulcimer, harmonica and violin and it's circa 1917. Sadly, this song and the poem are appropriate for our lads and lassies in Iraq.
Damn shame too. Then AND now.
I've always wondered: did he actually die, or was the telegram a screw-up?
Love the song, regardless.
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Patty Griffin - Heavenly Day
(Jun 26, 2008 - 12:51) | DeemerDave wrote: OK. Why is everything being played at ultra slow speed? Is the internet broken or just RP.
This sucks.
Switch to decaf, baby.
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Kate Bush - Army Dreamers
(Jun 26, 2008 - 12:48) | Darrooon wrote: Just listen for a minute to the lyrics, folks...
Dig. I looked them up. Wow.
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Elbow - The Fix
(Jun 24, 2008 - 16:22) | alph wrote: Love the sinister lyrics. This could be the NBA's theme song.
Ouch.
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Elton John - Funeral For a Friend - Love Lies Bleeding
(Jun 24, 2008 - 16:22) | I love going back through the comments for this song. Funny to see how polarizing it is. But it still rates about an 8, so all is still right in RP land... I keed.
When I was a teen (?), GYBR was one of the (few) albums I would listen to over and over and over. The opening of this tune, the bells tolling slowly, just fit how I felt. Then the Farfisa breaks in, like a wave slamming against the rocks. And Sir Elton goes on to tell the story of a love lost: roses tilted, life adrift. It really affected me. Still does. Yeah, maybe I'm a weird misanthropic clinically depressed freak. What's it to ya?
c.
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Sundays - Summertime
(Jun 19, 2008 - 11:47) | shuttlecr wrote:
What a small world it is getting to be...
But I still wouldn't want to paint it.
Thank you, I'll be here all week...
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Nat King Cole - (Get Your Kicks On) Route 66
(Jun 19, 2008 - 09:41) | Ahnyer_Keester wrote: Man what a singer!! Such a smooth voice.
Dig. Silk, baby, silk.
This song wouldn't be my first choice from him, but it's a pretty cool interpretation. I'm so used to the Asleep At The Wheel version, this one is an interesting diversion.
c.
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Patty Griffin - Little God
(Jun 19, 2008 - 08:34) | I gave this an 8? What was I thinking? This is a solid 9, creeping into 10 territory. Wow.
It's a little 'rougher' than most of Ms. Griffin's other work. In a good way: that little 'edge' in her voice drives the message home.
c.
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Shawn Mullins - The Ballad of Kathryn Johnston
(Jun 16, 2008 - 15:10) | Shawn Mullins' music is a little too 'clean' somehow, but I still like him. He tells good stories in his songs, there's just some 'grit' or something missing. He'll find it though.
His previous effort, '9th Ward Pickin' Parlor', was the name of the 'recording studio' where he cut it: the living room of his friend Mike West. I think it was destroyed by Katrina.
c.
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Sly and the Family Stone - I Want To Take You Higher
(Jun 16, 2008 - 14:08) | maryte wrote: When I was a little girl in Boston in the 60s, my brothers & sisters *always* had Sly going on, so I grew up loving him! And at that point, I was too young to realize how amazing it was that the band was comprised of blacks, whites, men, women, all jammin' out. I thought that was how it *should* be.
Of course, the reaction of the audience at the Newport Jazz Festival (I believe) to Sly had Miles Davis foaming at the mouth. He wanted to inspire that kind of unbridled joy in people, but didn't quite know how to do it (in spite of his own musical genius).
Dig. It's one reason I love Ozomatli too: they inspire a similar vibe. Sly's music (and Ozo's) has a positive message, and makes folks wanna MOVE!
c.
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Death Cab For Cutie - I Will Possess Your Heart
(Jun 16, 2008 - 08:37) | Laptopdog wrote: I also like this extended version. I didn't think it was Death Cab For Cutie, so I was a bit disappointed when the singer kicked in and I recognized the song.
I really want to like this band, but I would never buy anything from a band with a stupid name like Death Cab for Cutie.
Yeah, DCFC makes 'Toad the Wet Sprocket' sound positively sublime.
I think DCFC is taken from an old pulp slasher comic bo... er, 'graphic novel'.
Before I knew the name of the band, I heard their song 'Styrofoam Plates', and I was hooked. They could call themselves 'Talentless Idiots' and I wouldn't care.
xoxox,
c.
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James McMurtry - Levelland (live)
(Jun 16, 2008 - 08:19) | Jack_Jefferson wrote:
Like I once heard someone say: "Dialect does not equal intellect". I guess it is one thing we have to make an effort to get past. But then again, I can also relate to the Jeff Foxworthy bit about going into the operating room and your heart surgeon has a southern accent.
Quite true. And 'Larry the Cable Guy'? You can tell he is actually very smart: his ad libs are sharp.
c.
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James McMurtry - Levelland (live)
(Jun 16, 2008 - 08:17) | Excelsior wrote:
I have never heard a vocalist sound more bored than James McMurtry. Every time he opens his mouth, it sounds like he'd rather be anywhere else than in front of a microphone.
Actually that's probably kind of true. He is a bit of a misanthrope.
Said the kettle...
c.
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Madrugada - Majesty
(Jun 13, 2008 - 09:50) | jhorton wrote: The live version is truly brilliant.......
Dig. This is good, but the live version has WAY more power and intensity. Love the voice.
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Cake - Mahna Mahna
(Jun 13, 2008 - 08:09) | onemorebyte wrote: I just found my new ring tone!!!!!!
LMFAOROTFL
Oh man, mine too. I've gotta go find it...
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Cake - Mahna Mahna
(Jun 13, 2008 - 08:09) | redtex wrote: Please, no.
Yes, please, more Cake.
xoxox,
c.
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Jakob Dylan - Something Good This Way Comes
(Jun 12, 2008 - 12:16) | This song is growing on me. A bit overplayed on commercial radio though. His performance on David Letterman was very subdued, which actually added to the tone of this song.
c.
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Robert Plant & Alison Krauss - Killing The Blues
(Jun 12, 2008 - 12:14) | mach-hog wrote: Likeable enough - but there's more complexity and better writing in the work done by Chip Taylor and Carrie Rodriguez - two CDs of note by them are:
1. The Trouble With Humans
2. Red Dog Tracks
This one lacks complexity for all the pleasure of hearing those two voices in harmony.
Chip and Carrie are a different sort. Wonderfully, incredibly talented, and different from Bob and Ali. I think this song (and CD) are wonderful too, but in an entirely different sort of way. The contrast between their voices (and ages, and backgrounds, and...) makes it all the more compelling.
Bob doesn't need the money. Neither does Ms. Krauss: she was performing in the Opry at 12 years old! It's an unusual pairing, not unlike Emmylou Harris and Mark Knopfler. Who don't need the money either: they're just doing it for kicks, trying something new, whatever.
c.
edit: I just found out Chip Taylor is the brother of Jon Voight. Looks very much like him.
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Johnny Cash - Ring of Fire
(Jun 12, 2008 - 08:13) | thewiseking wrote: love Johnny and love this song but I always found the tempo on this version a bit rushed, which makes it less powerful.
Y'all need to revisit the Wall of Voodoo version. Killer.
I think Social Distortion did a really smokin' version of this too. This song is one of a very few that has generated some great covers.
c.
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Johnny Cash - Ring of Fire
(Jun 12, 2008 - 08:12) | FlamingLotus wrote: Even his love songs involve a dip into hell! Tortured soul, that JC... Did June write this one???
Yes, she did.
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John Mellencamp - Rain on the Scarecrow
(Jun 10, 2008 - 13:18) | WonderLizard wrote: One of the great originals, a ham fisted lyricist who lays everything on the line all the time, and whose bands could f**king shut down anyone else on any given night. Ferocious live performer. I love this guy.
Amen brother. Yours is the first time I've seen 'ham fisted lyricist' as a compliment. He ain't everyone's cuppa, but he believes in what he does, and does it with a vengeance. He is the first to admit the whole 'Cougar' thing was a huge mistake.
c.
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John Mellencamp - Rain on the Scarecrow
(Jun 10, 2008 - 13:15) | LongGoneDaddy wrote:
I here ya, from across the river in KY...if some of the farms didn't get foreclosed upon, then Peabody Coal would try its best to rip up the rest. At least JCM has been dedicated to the FarmAid effort.
best Mellencamp song...except the part on the album where his Grandma sings.
The very same that hauled John Prine's father's 'Paradise' away. 'Muhlenberg County' strikes hard and deep, just like this song.
c.
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Jeff Buckley - Grace
(Jun 10, 2008 - 07:54) | Still stunning.
edit: Also prescient?
"and the rain is falling and i believe
my time has come
it reminds me of the pain
i might leave
leave behind
wait in the fire...
and i feel them drown my name
so easy to know and forget with this kiss
i'm not afraid to go but it goes so slow"
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The Melodians - Rivers of Babylon
(Jun 10, 2008 - 07:39) | sdn wrote:Are there any reggae songs that don't mention Babylon, Zion, Jah, The Man Who's Keeping Us Down, or ganja?
Probably not. I'm okay with that.
edit: Reggae is sort of like 'Jamaican Gospel', so it is heavy on spiritual themes.
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Elton John - Tiny Dancer
(Jun 04, 2008 - 14:07) | nigelr wrote:
C, I love 'em too, and I aint weird at all!
Pert near his best album, tho all his BT collabs are great!
Riiiight...
Kidding. Us EJ fans gotta stick together!
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Bo Diddley - Who Do You Love
(Jun 02, 2008 - 13:28) | This is IT. This is the stuff that started it all.
The haters can go pound sand. Bo Diddley is one of the cornerstones of Rock And Roll.
c.
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Santana - Song Of The Wind
(May 30, 2008 - 13:00) | RockinBlueVoodoo wrote:
Unfortunately, Jimi didn't play much guitar in the 70's
Harsh, man.
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Neko Case - Hold On, Hold On
(May 30, 2008 - 12:44) | 1wolfy wrote: I never thought I'd like country this much...then came Neko and RP
Country? Not hardly. Country artists don't have bands called 'The New Pornographers', for starters. They can't sing anywhere NEAR as well as Neko, either.
Labels are for canned goods, not music.
That said, I'm glad you like Ms. Case. She is the bomb, yo?
c.
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Madeleine Peyroux - I'm All Right
(May 30, 2008 - 08:57) | Ericac wrote: Very nice song for a dreary Friday struggling to get through.
Dig.
edit: funny how the last few comments have been nasty, but the average rating is 7. Hmmm...
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Train - Mississippi
(May 30, 2008 - 08:55) | rtrudeau wrote:
I, too, am a closet Train junkie.  Probably not something to proclaim here, but O well.
Let your freak flag fly, R. The haters can go pound sand.
I really dig this tune. Especially the trumpet.
Reminds me of sitting in a porch swing. But not in a happy way, more like sitting in a porch swing, but not having the energy to swing it: feeling, well, beaten.
c.
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Blasters - Trouble Bound
(May 30, 2008 - 08:15) | tnt_thomas wrote:
Bingo! Sounds like Country in my ears thoguh you'd all tell me it's rockabilly or some such crud.
It ain't Country, or even Rockabilly. It's THE BLASTERS.
Labels are for canned goods, baby.
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Neko Case & Her Boyfriends - Furnace Room Lullaby
(May 28, 2008 - 09:28) | I had to bump this to a 10. Wow.
Now, you kids who're calling this 'Country', or worse, 'Country and Western', seem kinda behind the power curve here. The day Neko Case is played on a 'country' station, we'll be throwin' snowballs in Miami.
Trying to put a label on Ms. Case, indeed on MOST artists here, is pretty pointless.
c.
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Otis Redding - I've Got Dreams to Remember
(May 20, 2008 - 15:54) | burdell wrote: Did anyone else growing up in the late '70s and '80s think that Otis Redding only ever actually recorded one song?
Yes. Cryin' shame too: his body of work is stunning.
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Cream - I Feel Free
(May 20, 2008 - 12:52) | If these guys stick with it, they might just make something of themselves... j/k.
Even after all these years, this is still some cool stuff.
c.
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Couldn't Stand The Weather
(May 20, 2008 - 12:50) | james_of_tucson wrote: Ray Wylie Hubbard's parents lived up the hill from me, they on Canterbury Court and we on Edgefield Avenue in Oak Cliff. Stevie Ray Vaughan spent whole summers in their backyard and pool. I saw him all the time. More than ten years after that, I discovered that he had become locally famous in Austin. Thought that was alright.
Lots of AA and NA folks in Dallas, Denton, and Austin have talked about Stevie plugging into their groups. Just a regular guy who tried to clean up his act, which he did, before he died.
Great story. I'm betting Mr. Hubbard's song 'Rock and Roll is a Vicious Game' is based partly on SRV's life. Unfortunately his story is hardly unusual.
c.
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Beth Orton - Concrete Sky
(May 20, 2008 - 11:50) | counter wrote: Concrete Sky follows Wicheta Skyline follows Skyway follows Eye In The Sky... Coincidence? Maaybeee, but then again maybe not :)
Naw, it's just a coincidence. Sheesh, you conspiracy theorists...
xoxox,
c.
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Jay Farrar - Make It Alright
(May 20, 2008 - 08:53) | dedawson wrote: Hmmm. Never heard of these folks. But I sure wouldn't mind hearing more. This is really enjoyable.
Glad to see you like this. Since you do, I highly recommend investigating the various incarnations of this band and its members.
It all started as 'Uncle Tupelo', then the band split into 'Wilco' and 'Son Volt'. Now Jay Farrar is doin' his own thing, and Jeff Tweedy has another project too: the name escapes me. If you like this, you'll probably like the whole gamut. I would start with 'Uncle Tupelo': there's plenty of material there...
c.
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Yes - Heart Of The Sunrise
(May 15, 2008 - 08:26) | quesarah wrote:
You made coffee snort out my nose.
A blast from the past.. not something I listen to a lot, but I still do like Squire's Rick sound.
You just made my day. Yes is one of those bands I think of as 'nerd rock'. Too smart for the Top 40 dreck of the time. It's still holding up pretty well...
c.
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Iggy Pop - The Passenger
(May 14, 2008 - 12:18) | bokey wrote: The seeklyrics.com page for this has a really hot brunette on it.
Theres some words on there too, but you can look em up yourself.
Words? What words?
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(May 09, 2008 - 10:27) | fredriley wrote:This is funny, though I'm sure even funnier to folk across the Pond who know hicks like yer man's singing about. I sure wouldn't want to meet any of the characters he's singing about, mind... 
7 from the Nottingham jury even though most of the cultural references pass me by.
Glad you like it. Cultural references? Well, ain't much 'culture', but I can 'splain the basics:
- Choctaw: Indian tribe. Considered a 'friendly' tribe, they were the first ones evicted along the 'Trail of Tears'. The tribe is originally from the Alabama/Mississippi area somewhere, but have been in Oklahoma since the infamous 'Trail'.
- Bingo, I'm sure you've heard of.
- 'quarter section' is a unit of land, from back when they carved the state into 'sections' for the Great Land Rush. Not sure how big a 1/4-section is though.
- 'bluecat' is some kind of catfish, 'driftin' jugline' is also called a 'trotline', where a series of baited hooks are laid out in a line. Each hook has a float (usually a plastic milk jug) attached.
- Lake Texoma is a HUGE lake on the border of Texas and Oklahoma.
- SKS - 'assault' style rifle. 'Berdan primers' refers to military-grade ammunition.
- Desert Eagle - enormous semi-auto pistol, .50 caliber (about 13mm for you chaps across the pond). Made in Israel, hence the 'bad-a$$ hebrews'.
- BAR - Browning Automatic Rifle. Light machine gun. Scary piece of kit.
- 'Bo-dark fence post' - bois d'arc, also called 'osage orange', is a type of wood. Tough, flexible, and nearly indestructible, natives used it for bows. Still prized for its strength.
Us rednecks like to go out and shoot stuff. Normally it's harmless entertainment, but those three guns are pretty heavy firepower.
The rest probably explains itself. Sadly, Mr. McMurtry took little, if any, artistic license with his descriptions...
c.
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James McMurtry - Choctaw Bingo
(May 09, 2008 - 09:58) | lattalo wrote:This guy knows my family and wrote this song to honor them, bless him!
No kidding. He is describing, almost exactly, our last Thanksgiving. Complete with, no kidding, a Choctaw Casino.
Great uncle raises roosters in Broken Bow. Last name? Cogburn.
c.
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Elton John - Funeral For a Friend - Love Lies Bleeding
(May 08, 2008 - 15:16) | rtrudeau wrote:
I'm 10 years older than you, several states to the west, and I agree 100%.
One of the best albums of all time. I'd have killed to see Elton live back in the day. Sigh.
I saw him in the mid 80s, when his new material sucked. But he still put on a great show, playing a lot of older (i.e. good) stuff. Even today I'd go see him: the man knows how to put on a show.
c.
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Elton John - Funeral For a Friend - Love Lies Bleeding
(May 08, 2008 - 15:05) | lathyris wrote: You guys realize that Bill would stop playing this if you stopped pretending to like it, right? RIGHT??
Yep. If the average rating drops below 8, Bill might can it.
Sorry lath, you're in the minority. Feel free to mute.
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The Be Good Tanyas - Scattered Leaves
(May 08, 2008 - 08:46) | middleagedhipster wrote: Maybe somebody could upload another fine voiced Canadian like Celine Dion for all those who find this 'annoying'.
These gals can come sing on my porch anytime.
Is that what the kids are callin' it these days?
Dig them BGTs!
c.
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Joni Mitchell - Coyote
(May 07, 2008 - 14:11) | 9 --> 10. Why I gave it a 9 first, I have no idea. Maybe Ms. Mitchell's best.
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Christians and Lions - Skinny Fists
(May 07, 2008 - 12:08) | copymonkey wrote:
That's spot on my friend.
Thank you. I've liked Old 97s for ages. Mr. Oberst is a bit more of an acquired taste. A band that sounds a bit like both suits me just fine.
c.
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The Count Five - Psychotic Reaction
(May 07, 2008 - 11:45) | dionysius wrote: The Count Five are more punk than your whiny emo band could ever hope to be.
Yep. What a motley bunch. And those threads! Dig.
c.
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Eddie From Ohio - Number Six Driver
(May 07, 2008 - 09:15) | I like everything I've heard by 'Eddie'. Always think it's Ani at first, which I consider high praise. 'Eddie' feels a little more accessible, lyrically, than Ani though.
Very nice.
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Cowboy Junkies - Lay it Down
(May 07, 2008 - 08:10) | poopypants wrote:
mazzy star isn't fit to be a roadie for these guys
Easy there, pp. Different strokes. MS occupies a different niche: there's no comparison, and no need for putdowns.
xoxox,
c.
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Patty Griffin - Goodbye
(May 06, 2008 - 11:54) | agnes wrote:
I hear perfection.
And, I saw her perform with Emmylou last weekend...
Ms. Griffin and Ms. Harris on the same stage?! Heavenly.
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Tom Jones & The Cardigans - Burning Down The House
(May 05, 2008 - 14:48) | Okay, this is funny. You can't beat Tom Jones for sheer cheesy showmanship, and the Cardigans, well, they figured this would be a silly kick. Which it is.
Nobody but NOBODY can top the original. This version is fun though.
c.
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Creedence Clearwater Revival - The Midnight Special
(May 05, 2008 - 14:36) | preachersson wrote: Great version, but nothing can beat Leadbelly. Yeppers. This is a truly great cover, but Mr. Fogerty simply cannot imbue it with the passion and desperation Mr. Ledbetter gave it. FYI it was written while Leadbelly was incarcerated in Sugarland Texas, west of Houston. Billy Gibbons is from around there too. Coincidence? c.
Edit: I stand corrected, regarding the origins of the song. Like all the truly great folk songs, this one has a rich, convoluted history. Leadbelly, like CCR, was just another link in the chain.
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The Frames - The Cost
(May 05, 2008 - 10:00) | Papernapkin wrote: I always feel a little suicidal when I hear this song.
I always feel a little suicidal period, so when I hear this I realize other people do to: makes things a tad more bearable, misery loving company and all.
c.
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Jeff Buckley - Last Goodbye
(May 05, 2008 - 07:41) | From the first note, this song makes me an emotional wreck. Oddly, I think that's why I love it.
c.
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Clifton Chenier - Choo Choo Ch-Boogie
(May 01, 2008 - 15:02) | lwilkinson wrote:This is good but if you like this kind of boogie-wooogie moosic then you oughta' pick up the Texas Playboys and hear how Bob Wills' folks (who still go to Turkey, TX every year for Bob Wills' Days) can play this same tune and make your feet move against your will.
 
If you ever have the chance, try to see 'A Ride With Bob', starring Ray Benson and his band. It is really great. We were lucky enough to see it when he 'The Quebe Sisters' as guests, they did a couple of Bob's tunes. The whole show is great though.
c.
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Beck - Qué Onda Guero
(Apr 30, 2008 - 14:09) | calihack27 wrote:
Totally disagree...this song, nay the album, is fantastic not just for its musical innovation but that it truly captures the *TRUE* spirit of growing up in and spending lazy summer days in Los Angeles--- ah to be 14 again :)
Dig. Beck is a musical genius.
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John Hiatt - Cry Love
(Apr 29, 2008 - 15:54) | unclemrbig wrote: On the January concert-The rapport between the four (Hiatt, Ely, Lovett, Clark) was unbelievable. Hiatt and Lovett tended to play quite a bit on each other's songs. General remarks-Best lyrics-Hiatt; Best voice-Ely; Best humor-Lovett, by far; Just glad to be there-Clark.
Interesting descriptions, although 'just glad to be there' doesn't seem much like Guy Clark. He has absolutely nothing to prove, not even with, in fact ESPECIALLY with, those other guys. I love 'em all, but honestly I think Guy Clark is the best songwriter of those four.
c.
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Tell Me
(Apr 29, 2008 - 09:47) | horstman wrote:
Perhaps the only good thing to come out of Texas!
Yeah, you're probably right:
- Clarence 'Gatemouth' Brown
- Blind Lemon Jefferson
- Roy Orbison
- Willie Nelson
- Waylon Jennings
- Kris Kristofferson
- Buddy Holly
- Lyle Lovett
- Nanci Griffith
- Bob Wills
- Janis Joplin
- Scott Joplin
- Boz Scaggs
- Johnny and Edgar Winter
- Gene Autry !!
- Don Henley
- Michelle Shocked
were all a bunch of no-talent pikers.
I think Ray Wylie Hubbard may have said it best: "Screw You, We're From Texas".
Just kidding you. Us Texans have been known to get a mite riled when our Republic's honor is at stake. Just havin' a little fun with you.
c.
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Los Straitjackets - Sing, Sing, Sing
(Apr 29, 2008 - 09:22) | Awesome. Only a buncha nuts like these would 'surf up' a big band classic.
The drum part is not NEARLY as good as the original though: when Benny's skins-banger lays into those first few beats, you KNOW it's gonna rock.
c.
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Dick Dale - Miserlou
(Apr 28, 2008 - 08:19) | An Armenian folk song. Cranked up to 11. Coolest tune EVER. c.
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Martha Wainwright - Factory
(Apr 24, 2008 - 15:37) | Roverfish wrote:
That comment brought a smile to my face.
Of course the other would be his music and role in "Knocked Up"...right?  (or Rufus...or "Dead Skunk"...)
Most excellent tune from a very talented family.
HE wrote 'Dead Skunk'?! Haven't heard it in YEARS! Wasn't what I was thinking about, but now that you mention it, it comes in a close second to Rufus. Or that 'Wish I Was A Lesbian' song.
Most people don't know he was on the earliest episodes of M*A*S*H also.
c.
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Indigo Girls - Land Of Canaan
(Apr 24, 2008 - 09:39) | I have always like Indigo Girls. There, I said it. And Melissa Etheridge, and Two Nice Girls. Maybe I'm a closet lesbian? Maybe I just like folkie pop.
c.
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Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros - Get Down Moses
(Apr 24, 2008 - 08:42) | rascal420 wrote: I don't usually dig the white guy reggae thing but Joe gets a pass due to his supreme most-excellence and some intriguing lyrics in this one
T'ain't reggae, mon. There's a tune on one of his albums called 'Mushy Peas', wherein he tries to describe the music his band plays: "Well it's a little... uh... and sort of... um... and, uh..."
Classifications are pointless. Joe Strummer rocks the freakin' house, that's all that matters.
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Neil Young - Powderfinger
(Apr 22, 2008 - 15:04) | FlamingLotus wrote:
I thought of it as a suicide. "Just think of me as one you never figured"...
I think it's 'suicide by proxy', that is, he raises his rifle to fire, and the second shot from the boat blows him away.
...never figured / To fade away so young...
...Remember me to my love, I know I'll miss her/
Doesn't seem so much like suicide as standing up against impossible odds.
Also,
...the first shot hit the bank/ I saw it coming, raised my rifle to my eye/ never stopped to wonder why/
So the boat (presumably authorities, likely BATF but it's never been clear) fired FIRST: he was defending his family as best he could.
I love the song. It doesn't offer answers or even a complete story. It's almost like a painting or a snapshot: there's a lot more than will fit in the frame.
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Neil Young - Powderfinger
(Apr 22, 2008 - 14:53) | Maybe my favorite Neil Young song. This version is only just starting to grow on me though.
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Seconds Flat - Dance On My Grave
(Apr 22, 2008 - 09:45) | lwilkinson wrote:
My Great Aunt (now long deceased) moved to S. Texas riding in a covered wagon (literally) and when I was a little boy she would sometimes talk about when she was a girl and how they lived.
In the old days, when people died on the trail or in poor communities they would bury the body as deep as they could, pile rocks or logs on top of it in the hole, then stand around and pee into the hole on the body, fill it in, and dance on it and when they left they would drive the wagons and horses over the grave.
Sounds strange until you realize that they didn't have stone burial crypts or metal coffins and that the coyotes and carrion eaters would smell the decomposition and dig the body up and eat it IF they could get to it.
The logs and rocks would make it difficult to dig down to the body and all of that peeing, dancing and driving the horse/oxen teams and wagons over it was to pack the ground down and mark the "territory" (with the urine) in an attempt to keep the animals away.
"Little Known Facts Of The American West Not Taught To You In Grade School"
Very cool, great story. Makes complete sense.
I suspect some folks may dance on my grave for other reasons though...
Love this song, and the sentiments thereof.
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Sia - Academia
(Apr 22, 2008 - 08:24) | Frater_Kork wrote: Quirky, I dig.
The album title answers most of the song comments in general on RP. =)
Agreed on all points.
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Pete Yorn - For Nancy
(Apr 22, 2008 - 08:08) | Diggin' Mr. Yorn.
He opened for The Dixie Chicks here once. Sounds odd I know, but it worked.
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Neil Young - Like a Hurricane
(Apr 22, 2008 - 07:46) | MrGreg wrote: What mediocre crap. The drummer is so far off the beat, is he falling asleep?
< 1
'No Technique' is also a technique.
I can assure you everything Mr. Young does is exactly the way he wants it. Ain't everyone's cuppa, but he's not doing it to be popular.
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Massive Attack - Protection
(Apr 21, 2008 - 08:21) | zap969 wrote: This is an absolutely gorgeous song. One of their best, IMHO.
Loverly indeed. Makes me stop working and listen. Can put me in a melancholy mood the rest of the day too, but I don't downrate it for that.
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Robert Palmer - Sailing Shoes / Hey Julia / Sneakin' Sally
(Apr 18, 2008 - 13:13) | Dig the groove. When Ol' Bob was good, he was very good.
I had no idea the talent backing him here though: man, what a lineup! That bunch could probably make ME sound good. Okay, tolerable. Okay, would you believe 'less painful'?
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Buena Vista Social Club - El Carretero
(Apr 18, 2008 - 12:31) | qosforever wrote: It's curious how this legendary very old men get famous, when they were 80 years old.
There are several scenes in the movie that indicate those gentlemen had been pretty famous when they were young too. While visiting the Empire State Building, one man said he'd been there many years before, when he was touring with a band. Playing in NYC has always been a big deal, so he was probably fairly famous way back when too.
No matter. It's great to see their music and culture embraced so warmly (again).
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Radiohead - Karma Police
(Apr 18, 2008 - 08:25) | Sure seems like the Karma Police are falling down on the job lately.
Just sayin'...
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Los Lobos - One Time One Night
(Apr 17, 2008 - 14:17) | Misterfixit wrote: Listen to the lyrics on this track. Listen and Learn something.
Los Lobos are an American Icon Band.
I was just about to rip you a new one: I read that as 'American Idol'! Whew, that was close.
You're right on, brother. Los Lobos occupies a unique portion of the American lexicon, crossing boundaries once considered inviolate.
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Patty Griffin - Burgundy Shoes
(Apr 16, 2008 - 16:02) | dookie wrote: easily one of the best CDs I have bought in years.
One of the best CDs MADE in years.
Ms. Griffin gives me chills every time. Wow.
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Billy Joe Shaver - Thunderbird
(Apr 16, 2008 - 15:33) | BillG wrote:
That's Billy Joe's son Eddie. Sadly, he died of a drug overdose not long after this was recorded back in the mid 90s.
Damn shame. Eddie was only married about a year, to a girl who worked at The Saxon Pub, back when it was my home-away-from-home. Everyone was pretty broken up about it, but at the same time, everyone knew the demons he battled. It took a long time for Billy Joe to recover: it was nearly the final straw in a life full of tough times.
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Billy Joe Shaver - Thunderbird
(Apr 16, 2008 - 15:29) | Billy Joe Shaver is the MAN. Ain't everybody's cuppa, that's for sure, and this isn't my fave of his, but Mr. Shaver is the definition of a tough ol' country boy.
He has an advanced degree from The School of Hard Knocks: his life story makes Job look like a piker. He's still kickin' though.
This tune is mighty countrified, but he can rock out with the best of 'em. Shaver is the real deal.
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Oi Va Voi - Yuri
(Apr 16, 2008 - 12:06) | This song just begs to be followed up by Laika and the Cosmonauts. Or maybe Man or Astroman?
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Wall Of Voodoo - Mexican Radio
(Apr 15, 2008 - 12:16) | dogdokken wrote: What's this song about?
Some stations in San Diego, like Mighty 690 AM used to broadcast out from Tijuana, because I think there's no limits on broadcast strength. So does this mean Stan Ridgeway was all happy about being on Mighty 690? And for those too young to remember: AM 690 played pop music up until around '82-'83. They later became a sports talk station.
There were a LOT of high-powered radio stations based in Mexico. ZZ Top's 'Heard It On The X' is about those stations. Some could be heard as far away as Chicago: they pummeled everything on the band with raw power. There is a play about the phenomena called 'Border Radio', one of the stars of which is one of the original radio announcers/pitchmen of the day. His voice is still quite distinctive, pitching everything from hair tonic to secret decoder rings.
There is no racist intent in Mr. Ridgway's song, nor ZZ Top's either. The 'X' stations were quite famous, and broke a lot of top hits that later made it to 'mainstream' radio.
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Count Basie - Jumpin' at the Woodside
(Apr 11, 2008 - 12:23) | Misterfixit wrote:
This was in 1956 if I recall correctly, and segregation ruled in the rest of the country, but there and then the audience that night was all mixed together .. and everyone was jumping and jiving.
Awesome.
There's a story about Tommy Dorsey when he played in Houston, probably around the same time. He was at his peak, and tickets were high-dollar. When Tommy and the band showed up, the venue owner said Tommy's star trumpet player couldn't perform: no blacks allowed.
Tommy said something like "HE don't play, WE don't play." But the producer said "We've got a contract. You'll play."
So Tommy and his band, minus trumpeter, played for one hour. No encores, no nothing.
THEN the whole band went down to the Fourth Ward and put on a SHOW. Nobody paid a dime to see one of the most famous bands of the era perform until dawn.
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Randy Newman - Baltimore
(Apr 11, 2008 - 11:58) | sub-arctic wrote: My image of Baltimore is completely formed by The Wire (living on the other side of the planet and has never been there). That image is an ugly one...
Mine is formed by 'Homicide: Life on the Streets' TV series. Not any prettier than yours.
Like the song though.
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Patty Griffin - Change
(Apr 10, 2008 - 12:07) | voodoodaddy wrote: I'm an idiot. While I've never been a big fan, I heard this awhile ago, scoffed and gave it a 4. Listening to it again, I realize that I still have a lot to learn. This is pretty damn good.
Which means you are not an idiot.
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Webb Wilder - Big Time
(Apr 10, 2008 - 11:46) | lwilkinson wrote: Must be something about the High Plains.
I've never heard this before but I like it a lot and it very much reminds me of early Joe Ely and The Maines Brothers. (I lived in the Panhandle for a time and spent too much of my time in honky-tonks from Spearman to Spur to Midland-Odessa, not to mention the TX Tech student hangouts in Lubbock.
Huh? Too much? I don't get it.
xoxox,
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Clarence Frogman Henry - I Ain't Got No Home
(Apr 10, 2008 - 08:29) | dionysius wrote:
Can't blame the Frogman for that. I love this song in defiance of Limbaugh and all his ilk.
Right on. There are few things in this world I care less about than Mr. Limbaugh's opinions. Or taste in music.
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Richie Havens - Freedom
(Apr 09, 2008 - 14:11) | Dig.
Bit o' trivia: the couple on the album cover? They are still together. At least were a few years ago, when somebody did a little special interest article about them. Tracked 'em down and sure enough, still hippie-ish, still together. Kinda cool.
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Dave Matthews Band - Digging A Ditch
(Apr 09, 2008 - 13:52) | biggeorge wrote: Dave Matthews has created and continues to create great music, I am sorry for anyone who ruined his music by overplaying it, or hanging out with people who overplayed it. Many people in college have no idea who they are yet, and when exposed to good music they go a little overboard, e.g. Spreadheads, deadheads, parrotheads, phishheads, etc.
I was fortunate to have parents who exposed me to great music growing up, So when I did get to college I was listening to "good" music and had the good sense not to ruin it by overplaying. I would think this would apply to anyone here (RP)
I still really enjoy Dave's music, even though his fans ruined the first and last DMB show I ever attended: buncha punks. I love Jimmy Buffett too, and I cannot STAND parrotheads either.
Now, Ozomatli, who opened for DMB when I saw him, are not only FABULOUS live, but their fans are great too.
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Elton John - I've Seen That Movie Too
(Apr 09, 2008 - 08:33) | I wore the grooves off this album. Nice to hear a lesser known cut from it. EJ and BT were pretty good at 'melancholy', huh?
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Beth Orton - Pass In Time
(Apr 08, 2008 - 15:53) | I love Beth Orton. Saw her at ACL Fest one year, she was wonderful. Maybe, just maybe, she's out of tune on purpose? Discordant, even? She don't exactly sing feel-good tunes, so out-of-tune may be the POINT. Ever listen to Hank Williams? Sometimes he sounds more like a wounded animal than a human. On purpose.
'Art' ain't always about 'beauty'.
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Abigail Washburn - Song of the Traveling Daughter
(Apr 08, 2008 - 10:03) | BryseEayo wrote: Wow this is weird.
I hope most of you know of the television show Firefly.
This is exactly the music that the show's made for.
And a main character's last name is also Washburn... Creepy.
We have the DVD set. You nailed it. Creepy. And awesome.
I loved the mashup-Chinese they spoke on Firefly. Prescient, perhaps?
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K's Choice - 20,000 Seconds
(Apr 02, 2008 - 11:26) | cjg wrote: K's Choice always makes me think that Amy Ray (Indigo Girls) is doing an XTC / Dukes of Stratosphere kinda side thing. But then, the K's Choice I've heard sounds more passionate than anything either of the IG's have put out in quite a few years.
Well put. I really like her voice, sort of a cross between Amy's and Emily's. And more passionate.
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Boz Scaggs - Fly Like A Bird
(Apr 01, 2008 - 14:18) | 'nuther Texas boy makes good. Whodathunkit.
edit: well, not technically a Texan, but we'll take him anyway.
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Bad Company - Seagull
(Mar 28, 2008 - 16:49) | Queue wrote: until somebody shoots you down???
I bet he wishes he'd spent more time on that lyric.
Apparently it's about a guy dying of a drug overdose. Operative word is 'shooting'.
But I've been wrong before.
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The Call - Let the Day Begin
(Mar 27, 2008 - 11:59) | "Here's to the soldiers of the bitter war
Here's to the wall that bears their name"
Nicely said.
Here's to ALL the soldiers, of ALL the wars.
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Spoon - Rhythm & Soul
(Mar 18, 2008 - 08:12) | alanthecowboy wrote:
Ummmm... I think they speak English in Texas, dude.
Only just barely.
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Yes - Heart Of The Sunrise
(Mar 13, 2008 - 08:18) | Along with Rush and ELP, I think of this as 'Math Club Rock'. I mean that in the nicest possible way: rock for people who think. Brings back memories of being the nerdy outcast, sitting alone in my room... wait, that was Tuesday.
Yes to Yes.
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Okkervil River - Unless It's Kicks
(Mar 13, 2008 - 07:57) | O.R. is something of a 'buzz band' around these parts. Local cats and all. I'm still on the fence about their sound, though.
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Neko Case - Fox Confessor Brings The Flood
(Mar 12, 2008 - 12:09) | Bill, you're killin' me! From Hank Williams to Neko Case! How am I supposed to get anything done, when I'm completely enraptured?
Ms. Case is the perfect follow on to Mr. Williams. Well played, sir!
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Erin McKeown - A Better Wife
(Mar 12, 2008 - 08:54) | Feghoot wrote: What an insipid set! Are you bored, desperate? I'm changing stations.
Don't let the door hitcha on the way out...
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Micah P. Hinson - Diggin a Grave
(Mar 11, 2008 - 12:44) | strange_brew00 wrote: i hear ya. if there's one thing that'll kill a good party/saturday night, it's having to bury a body in secret while the sun comes up too early. jk. good song
True. Power-washing the trunk is a real bear too, but there's just NO other way to get all the blood out.
xoxox,
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Cake - Let Me Go
(Mar 11, 2008 - 11:43) | wycado wrote: Never heard of this band before RP. Pretty good. I'm staring at that album cover and trying to connect Cake, pork, and magic somehow....
Huh?
- Never heard of Cake? Wher'ya bin, unner a rock?
- Never heard of pork cake? Yer missin' out.
Just funnin' ya. I don't get it either. Loves me some Cake though.
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Cake - Let Me Go
(Mar 11, 2008 - 11:38) | rushed wrote: Wow, I can turn Japanese and have my Cake too!
If you turned Japanese recently, I don't want any of your cake.
...
What?
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String Cheese Incident - Take Five
(Mar 07, 2008 - 11:40) | Since it's Dave Brubeck's piece, one of his finest, it gets a high rank. But SCI hasn't really added anything here, except maybe the mandolin-flavored stylings. I like it, but Dave's version is still the high-water mark.
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Joy Of Cooking - Don't The Moon Look Fat And Lonesome
(Mar 06, 2008 - 20:10) | FlamingLotus wrote:
Check out Carolyn Wonderland--she pretty much channels JJ when she wants to.
Oh man, you got my number. I remember seeing Carolyn when she fronted 'The Imperial Monkeys' at Dan Electro's in Houston. Tore the place apart. And she is STILL rippin' the paint off the walls. She's something of a personal friend too, through a mutual acquaintance. She gigs at the Saxon Pub regularly. I take all the 'tourists' to see her when I can: every one is amazed at her talent.
She does the best JJ impersonation/homage I've ever heard, bar none. Her originals ain't nothing to sneer at either.
Check her at Maria's for the Sunday Gospel Brunch too. She's hit-or-miss there, but DANG, she lights the place up when she's in town. Ditto when she backs Ginger Leigh: they did a show at The Parish that tore the roof off, especially compared to 'Rockstar' Patrice Pike's headline performance.
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Cyndi Lauper - She Bop (acoustic)
(Mar 06, 2008 - 11:37) | AvoidingWork wrote:
Ditto, and I might add I like the original better. I keep trying to dance to this one and the wacky slow movements are making my co-workers look at me weird.
Yeah, THAT'S why they're lookin' at you funny...
Kidding. This song is nucking futz.
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Sun Kil Moon - Gentle Moon
(Mar 06, 2008 - 08:56) | favrood wrote: Never heard this band before. Really like them. Had the weird feeling that if Brian Wilson hadn't taken his radical tumble into the weeds he might have sung songs like this.
It's made of members from 'Red House Painters'. That voice is hard to miss. I like it.
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Paul Simon - Still Crazy After All These Years
(Mar 05, 2008 - 13:27) | One of the few Paul Simon songs that really grabs me. Maybe because it is so sad. I mean, SAD. Overwhelmingly sad, crushingly sad. Damn, it's sad.
Did I mention this song is sad?
Excellent song.
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Iron & Wine - Woman King
(Mar 04, 2008 - 09:47) | Apparently 'Iron & Wine' is the stagename of Sam Beam. He recently moved somewhere near Austin.
I dig his stuff, although this is not one of my faves.
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Ben Folds Five - Brick
(Feb 29, 2008 - 09:01) | Amazon wrote:Wow, what sad lyrics. Brutally honest. It's hard to watch someone you love be down and withdrawn. 
Um, yeah. Even harder to be with her through what could be the most difficult thing she'll ever do: have an abortion.
Ben Folds has said that's what it's about. Pretty gutsy.
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Jenny Lewis & The Watson Twins - The Charging Sky
(Feb 28, 2008 - 12:41) | bam23 wrote:
Surprising that there has been no reply to this since October. Laurel Canyon is above Hollywood, in the greater Los Angeles miasma. Frank Zappa, among numerous other luminaries, lived there in the 1960s and it is apparently favored by those in the industry. Having driven through there, it looks to be an ideal location for a disastrous fire or flood.
Yeah, what Bam said. Had a friend who lived up there, near Stevie Wonder's place. Sure did look like a recipe for disaster: houses piled practically on top of each other, no apparent zoning or code enforcement, the works.
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Joni Mitchell - Dreamland
(Feb 28, 2008 - 09:51) | skdenfeld wrote: This is now the second song of Joni's that I have really enjoyed. I have not really heard much of her, but I seriously never expected to actually like it. Good stuff.
If you like this, you will FLIP for much of her other work. 'Court and Spark' and 'Blue' may be her most accessible albums: I'd start with those and work out.
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Johnny Cash - Hurt
(Feb 27, 2008 - 13:22) | Chills. Stunning emotional power. An aural glimpse into the abyss. Godlike, indeed.
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Chris Smither - I Am The Ride
(Feb 27, 2008 - 08:45) | seesaw wrote: To me he sounds sort of like Doc Watson.
One of many reasons I give him a solid 9.
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Cannonball Adderley & Miles Davis - Somethin' Else
(Feb 26, 2008 - 18:14) | fredriley wrote: For me, the thing that makes sophisto-jazz so tedious is that every blasted instrument has to be given its own solo, so for a quintet that multiplies the 'song' length by 5. This one is no exception, and for me outstays what little welcome it had in the first place.
And no, I don't 'get' jazz. I had enough sophisto-jazz inflicted on me by my Dad, who wet himself over technical virtuousity, during childhood to last a heap of lifetimes. The longer this goes on, the greater my pleasure will be when it finally ends.
Fair enough. It ain't everyone's cuppa, I'll admit. And you were beaten over the head with it, which prolly ruined it for ya no matter what.
But for those of us who DO like it, man, this is Somethin' Else. Two of the best there ever was. Were. Whatever.
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Marc Cohn - Dance Back From The Grave
(Feb 26, 2008 - 09:37) | mandolin wrote: ...regardless of his sources, this is good...
...as went galveston, so followed new orleans, in time...
That time done come. With a vengeance.
I like Marc Cohn, but don't love him. His work lacks something, but I can't really put my finger on it. Like 'white boy blues', it's missing a subtle ingredient.
Like this song though, my comments notwithstanding.
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Dave Matthews Band - Seek Up
(Feb 25, 2008 - 15:48) | Hinkamp wrote: this is one of those songs DJs put on so they can go out and smoke a Marley
This and Traffic's 'Low Spark'. Both rate high in my book, for that reason (among others).
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Bob Dylan - Hurricane
(Feb 25, 2008 - 13:51) | The finest tradition of folk music: bringing institutionalized injustices to light. 'Hattie Carroll' is another fine example.
With works like that under his belt, I've been disappointed with the accolades some of his recent work has received.
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Billie Holiday - Gimmie a Pigfoot (And a Bottle of Beer)
(Feb 25, 2008 - 08:45) | Buzzardcheater wrote: While I'm pretty passionate about Billie (to hear her singing "God Bless the Child" is to be in heaven and hell at the same time), Bessie Smith is the only one that can really pull this song off.... just imagine big ole Bessie leaning on a bar and shouting it out... oh yeah.
Buzzardcheater
Seconded. This tune is not Ms. Holiday's style. It's cool she did it and all, but it's not one of her better moments. Ms. Smith, Ms. Thornton, and Ms. Bailey are far better suited for this tune.
xoxox,
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Staple Singers - Respect Yourself
(Feb 15, 2008 - 13:35) | TheLoneIguana wrote: Somebody did a cover of the Bruce Willis song?
(Kidding, kidding!)
I saw Mavis Staples at a show recently. Short set (~1 hr) but still amazing.
Yeah, she played last year at the local Paramount Theater's 91st Anniversary. Short set, but DANG she rocked the place!
Git down!
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Neil Young - Throw Your Hatred Down
(Feb 15, 2008 - 12:48) | healyf52 wrote: Passion beats technique every time. Go Neil!
Sometimes no technique IS the technique. Mr. Young knows exactly what he's doing. With passion.
I'm the first to admit he ain't everyone's cuppa. But he throws everything into what he does.
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Los Lobos - One Time One Night
(Feb 14, 2008 - 15:00) | Wizzuvv_oz wrote: Man, I hear ya. Garth Brooks/Los Lobos same/same. Especially the way they steal those accordian riffs from each other.
Yeah, I get those two mixed up all the time...
What a maroon...
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Neko Case - Things That Scare Me
(Feb 14, 2008 - 14:31) | huebdoo wrote: Neko makes me feel all squishy inside... she sure is purty
Yeah. Her voice doesn't sound bad either...
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Pogues - The Sunny Side Of the Street
(Feb 13, 2008 - 17:05) | Love this. Hearing The Pogues sing 'The Sunny Side Of the Street' is possibly the single most incongruous activity one can perform.
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Ben Folds Five - Brick
(Feb 13, 2008 - 16:48) | robco1 wrote: No, that yould be Vienna Teng's "Passages," or Jeff Buckley's "Lover You Should've Come Over." But this is a good runner-up . . . Great song from an excellent artist.
Sorry, you're both wrong. "And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda" takes top honors. Eric Bogle(sp?) wrote it. The version I've heard is by The Pogues. Crushing.
I still love this tune though. It took real guts to set the story down. In live versions he has explained the genesis of it, and man, talk about wearing your heart.
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Barenaked Ladies - Brian Wilson
(Feb 13, 2008 - 15:36) | I never hearda that 'Wilson' guy, but I kinda dig this.
That was a joke. The Wilson part. I DO like this, but couldn't tell you why.
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Nina Simone - My Baby Just Cares For Me
(Feb 13, 2008 - 14:32) | radiojunkie wrote: Some damn yuppie-oriented TV commercial used this, and now I can't hear it without thinking of some damn commercial for a conspicuous consumption product that I fortunately can't remember. Undoubtedly a car. Why must those advertising people destroy everything that is good and holy?
And now, back to our show.
Fortunately, I've already forgotten about the TV commercial. They'll come and go, but artists like Nina Simone are forever.
Man, this is IT. Words. Simply. Fail.
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Stevie Wonder - Living For The City
(Feb 13, 2008 - 13:50) | I saw Malford Milligan, then with Stick People, sing this at Fitzgerald's in Houston. With some of Stevie's best writing, and Malford's angelic voice, it was probably the best performance of this song EVER. Spare, simple, and stunning. Wish it'd been recorded.
Outstanding.
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Louis Armstrong - Skokiaan (South African Song)
(Feb 13, 2008 - 13:37) | Deadwing wrote:
Also keep in mind the era that this song was recorded in. Most Americans didn't know anything about Africa really. They all probably visualized lions and giraffes and happy dancing natives in brightly colored costumes. Frankly I expect most Americans probably still think that way as we tend to tune out unpleasant things happening in other parts of the World.
Well said. Josephine Baker dancing around in a skirt made of bananas also comes to mind.
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Pearl Jam - Better Man
(Feb 13, 2008 - 13:18) | jarrudy wrote:this song haunted me in my 20s...sometimes eddie is TOO talented of a writer.
This song still haunts me. Too talented, indeed: there are some feelings I'd rather not have. Love this song though.
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Kings of Convenience - Homesick
(Jan 31, 2008 - 08:34) | Hinkamp wrote: did these guys want to be Simon and Garfunkle?
That would've been convenient, huh?
Oops.
I like it. Shades of S&G, but different. And unlike anything else out there right now.
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Ryan Adams - La Cienega Just Smiled
(Jan 31, 2008 - 08:29) | Gribnif wrote:Personally, I can't get past the fact that Bill misspelled "La Cienega" 
No kidding. That guy just can't get ANYTHING right!
xoxox,
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Bruce Springsteen - The River
(Jan 30, 2008 - 14:02) | eastcoast wrote: What was the point of this song? it just seems endlessly depressing from the vocals to the music.
Um, yeah. Exactly.
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Joe Ely - Gallo del Cielo
(Jan 29, 2008 - 15:00) | Joe Ely. What else is there to say? Awesome story and telling.
I didn't know Tom Russell wrote it. Learn sumthin' new ever' day.
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Neko Case - If You Knew
(Jan 29, 2008 - 11:44) | lathyris wrote: I think my wife might like Neko Case even more than I do -- and I like her a lot. So, if I play my cards right and Neko thinks it's a good idea -- threesome?!?
You and I think alike...
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Yes - And You And I
(Jan 29, 2008 - 09:00) | MidLyfe wrote: Ah, yes. In 1974, disco music or this. At the time, if you listened to Yes, Genesis, King Crimson, Pink Floyd, etc, you were "weird."
History changes a lot, eh?
No. We're still weird. Only difference is we don't CARE.
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Lightning Seeds - Pure
(Jan 29, 2008 - 08:15) | I keep thinking this sounds like something I shouldn't like. But I do.
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Simon & Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Water
(Jan 24, 2008 - 16:50) | slartibart_O wrote: Me - a 4th grader, 1970 in Canyon, Texas. My dad was MIA in Vietnam since the summer of '67 and my grandmother was on a rare visit from New Mexico. I played this 45 for her on a cheap little portable record player and I distinctly remember her looking at the ceiling and tapping her fingers on her knee. As soon as it was over she asked if we could hear it again. I think she had a lot on her mind but I was too young to know the difference; I can appreciate that now. Hearing this is a heavy melancholy moment. I always have to stop and listen even if it has been played a million times before, thanks.
Wow. Reading this while listening gave me chills. I hope everything worked out. c.
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Ray Wylie Hubbard - Conversation with the Devil
(Jan 23, 2008 - 13:45) | rickhoran wrote: isn't this the guy jerry jeff walker credits for writing "Up Against the Wall Redneck"?
i think i need to pay attention to this guy.
Yeppers. Ditto "Screw You, We're From Texas". Which is exactly what he'd say to the haters.
c.
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Ray Wylie Hubbard - Conversation with the Devil
(Jan 23, 2008 - 13:43) | Ray is something of an acquired taste, I'll admit. I've seen him a couple times, he comes across as someone who'd just as soon tell you to @#$% off as to sing a song. If you can call it singing. Which is just the way we like it.
Also see: Billy Joe Shaver, Earle 'Pool' Ball, and Townes Van Zandt.
c.
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Morphine - Scratch
(Jan 23, 2008 - 11:04) | Misterfixit wrote: Dana Colley, their Sax Player, is quite a Saxophone fan -- plus a great musician. Anyway, I ran into him here back in the mid 1990's and as we chatted, I mentioned that my Dad had been quite the Bass player in his day (Zebe Mann). When I described the Double Contrabass Sarousphone that Daddy played when he was with the Spike Jones bunch, Dana's eyes lit up. We talked about the effect a bass reed instrument has on blues music -- similar to -- but substantially different from -- the tuba. Anyway, it was a nice chat. BTW for the instrument collectors, Dad's Sarousphone is in the AFM instrument collection Museum at AFofM's NY HQ.
Your Dad played with Spike Jones!?!? WAY cool. I have NO idea what a 'Double Contrabass Sarousphone' is, but that's a great story.
c.
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Oi Va Voi - Yuri
(Jan 23, 2008 - 09:20) | kindermanltd wrote: Man, I freakin' love this shtuff.
'The Red Elvises' meet 'Laika and the Cosmonauts'. Dig.
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Johnny Cash - Ring of Fire
(Jan 22, 2008 - 14:12) | RobK wrote: Always an enjoyable little ditty. The Mexican-style horns are pretty funny. I still think I prefer Social D's rock-your-socks-off version.
But I have to say, 200 people rating this a perfect 10? Is that the nostalgia talking?
Social Distortion really nailed this one, didn't they? Man, that's one of the best covers ever.
As much as I love the Man in Black, this one only gets a 9: the song has been performed better by others.
c.
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Ray LaMontagne - Empty
(Jan 22, 2008 - 14:00) | copymonkey wrote: Why isn't this guy world famous? Is there anyone better right now?
- He doesn't fit into one of ClearChannel's pigeonholes.
- NO.
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Seconds Flat - Dance On My Grave
(Jan 22, 2008 - 10:08) | revsully wrote: Right on. My father passed away a couple months ago as well. This is the first time I've heard this song since... and it's making me smile.
My condolences on your loss. And my congratulations on your smile. Your Dad appreciates it.
c.
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Seconds Flat - Dance On My Grave
(Jan 22, 2008 - 10:07) | I love this song. Like 'Bury Me Deep' by Poi Dog, it turns a burial into a celebration.
I want this and 'Bury' played at my funeral. Loud.
c.
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Hellecasters - Peter Gunn
(Jan 18, 2008 - 12:39) | I haven't heard a version of Peter Gunn yet that I didn't like. The original is still the best, but it's a rockin' little ditty no matter who's grinding the axe.
c.
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Old 97s - Broadway
(Jan 18, 2008 - 12:35) | Love Old 97's! They opened for Chris Isaak at The Backyard once: great set. They're from Denton, north of Dallas, but don't hold that against them: they're the real deal.
c.
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R.L. Burnside - Glory Be
(Jan 18, 2008 - 12:07) | Kokoloco53 wrote: Maybe R.L. should button his shirt?
I expect the undertaker did it for him.
c.
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Robin Trower - Bridge Of Sighs
(Jan 18, 2008 - 10:20) | stevesaw wrote: One of my best weekends was seeing Fleetwood Mac one night (the good, pre-Nicks/Buckingham, FM) and Robin Trower the next night.
"Sorry, but you can't take any food in with you"
"But these brownies are for my friends"
"Sorry, you can eat them now or throw them away"
"OK, guess we'll eat them now."
It was a good night.
Mmmm... brownies...
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Lynyrd Skynyrd - I Know A Little
(Jan 17, 2008 - 09:34) | robco1 wrote:"I will not troll. I will not troll. I will not troll. I...
God I hate this crap.
Damn! Sorry, can't help it. 
Voicing your opinion is not trolling. Everyone's entitled. Even when they're wrong.
I keed.
c.
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Lynyrd Skynyrd - I Know A Little
(Jan 17, 2008 - 09:33) | EssexTex wrote: Hey we park our cars in the same garage!
Funny, I had Lynyrd Skynyrd blasting in my garage last night! I was running new air lines and rockin' out with Ronnie.
c.
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Lynyrd Skynyrd - I Know A Little
(Jan 17, 2008 - 09:32) | redtex wrote: Quite open minded aren't we?
And I support the addition of "Curtis Lowe".
YES. 'The Ballad of Curtis Loew' is one of my all-time faves.
But I'm a hardcore LS fan. No matter how many times I've heard 'Freebird', I still love it. I know, I have a problem. Acknowledging it is the first step...
c.
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Sonny Landreth - Back To Bayou Teche
(Jan 15, 2008 - 08:43) | mefrombrazil wrote: very good. where is this guy from?
'South of I-10'*. Southern Louisiana. He's kind of a modern interpretation of traditional Cajun music.
c.
*Interstate 10, which goes east-west through the lower part of the state. South of I-10, there are swamps, gators, and far more dangerous characters.
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Sonny Landreth - Back To Bayou Teche
(Jan 15, 2008 - 08:39) | From the very first note, this is Sonny Landreth. Sweet. It may be an acquired taste, like suckin' the haids, but once you're into it there's no substitute.
c.
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Johnny Nash - I Can See Clearly Now
(Jan 15, 2008 - 08:22) | redeyespy wrote:
Curious scene. Didn't the biker blow some of his smoke through the bullet holes in the trunk too?
YES! Probably the funniest scene in that movie. BTW, what the FRACK was a Rastaman doing, on a bike, in the middle of nowhere?
c.
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Johnny Nash - I Can See Clearly Now
(Jan 15, 2008 - 08:21) | robco1 wrote: Buckley could do it. Other than him?
Great song with lots of memories...
Bill 'The Lung' Withers.
Great tune.
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Donovan - Riki Tiki Tavi
(Jan 15, 2008 - 08:20) | Jay Leno called. He wants his chin back.
Sorry, but that cover photo was just too much to resist. The tune is harmless enough.
c.
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Lucinda Williams - 2 Kool 2 Be 4-Gotten
(Jan 15, 2008 - 08:12) | sqqqrly wrote:
I love Lucinda and her accent.
Not everyone knows 'zactly what that accent is. It's called 'Texas Stoned', aka 'Austin'.
c.
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John Lee Hooker - Boom Boom
(Jan 15, 2008 - 07:57) | drtjdel wrote: Before he died I saw John Lee at his club in S.F., the Boom Boom Room. Comes out on stage with an absolute FOX on each arm and a big grin on his face. You DOG!!
A buddy of mine used to escort the artists when they came to the Armadillo. He went up to Mr. Hooker's room, and there was John Lee, sittin' up in bed, with a twenty-ish hottie on each side of him. DOG is right!
c.
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Taj Mahal - Corinna
(Jan 15, 2008 - 07:53) | Taj Mahal is the MAN.
Watch 'Sounder' sometime: he did the soundtrack, and it is simply stunning.
c.
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Bonnie Raitt - When the Spell Is Broken
(Jan 14, 2008 - 09:26) | Hinkamp wrote: Bonnie and Blind Boys?
They really make it, don't they?
Hey, it's not as odd as Robert Plant and Alison Krause together.
c.
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The Kinks - Victoria
(Jan 11, 2008 - 09:17) | lmic wrote: Is there anything less than an "8" in these guys' entire catalog?
Not in my book: The Kinks rate an '8' just for showing up!
c.
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Billy Bragg & Wilco - California Stars
(Jan 11, 2008 - 08:03) | fredriley wrote: Billy Bragg? WTF is he doing singing C&W?? That's at least as bad a move as when Elvis Costello had his dire experiment with C&W. Stick to what you're good at, Billy.
First, that's not Mr. Bragg singing, which has been pointed out. Second, do you know the genesis of this album (and the others in the series)? It sounds sort of 'country' because it's the words of WOODY GUTHRIE. When you're studying the works of the master, some of it's bound to rub off.
c.
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Eric Johnson - Bloom
(Jan 10, 2008 - 14:28) | healyf52 wrote:
I think that Alan Holdsworth is the best guitarist on the planet. No one that I've heard can match him. Check out his album 'Metal Fatigue'..
I haven't heard Mr. Holdsworth, but I HAVE seen Monte Montgomery play. Holy schmoley! Sometimes he plays 'Sultans of Swing', speeded up about 3X, and hits every freakin' note. On an acoustic. Crazy.
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Hank Williams - Ramblin Man
(Jan 09, 2008 - 13:36) | Hastur_T wrote: I said to Hank Williams: How lonely does it get?
Hank Williams hasn't answered yet,
but I hear him coughing all night long,
a hundred floors above me in the tower of song.
Sweet. A tribute to a legendary songwriter FROM a legendary songwriter.
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Hank Williams - Ramblin Man
(Jan 09, 2008 - 13:35) | tnt_thomas wrote:NO NO NO NO C&W!!
YUCK!
 
"Well I like Charlie Daniels/
And I like big John Cash/
And if you don't like Hank Williams/
You can kiss my a$$"
Living proof talent skips generations, but the sentiment is accurate, anyway.
Hank Williams is The Man.
c.
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Israel Kamakawiwo'ole - Somewhere/Wonderful
(Jan 09, 2008 - 10:33) | davin wrote: I'd like to see what Beavis and Butthead would have to say about this song.
I wouldn't. Mike Judge, however, might say something interesting about it.
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The Frames - The Cost
(Jan 09, 2008 - 09:59) | FlamingLotus wrote:I'm groovin' on that "Cortez the Killer" vibe...
Ooo, yeah, I get that. Cool.
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Gaye Delorme - Sailor, Sailor
(Jan 09, 2008 - 08:40) | Holy wackamoley! When this started, it just SANG in my headphones! Great music, and so crisp and clear. Sweet!
c.
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Jimi Hendrix - My Friend
(Jan 08, 2008 - 12:33) | Never heard this before. Rates a 9 before the tune's even finished. Stunning.
c.
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Cyndi Lauper - She Bop (acoustic)
(Jan 03, 2008 - 14:38) | davin wrote:
This is from a whole album of acoustic versions of her songs, a DOUBLE album at that. This isn't a one-off to poke fun at herself.
Yes, I am afraid it is as bad as it sounds.
Oh, I'm not saying it's not BAD, 'cause I STILL don't like it much. I'm just saying there is NO WAY Ms. Lauper is so stupid as to think an 'angsty' acoustic version of 'She-Bop' is 'art'. It's a JOKE, people! Double album notwithstanding, this one is a JOKE.
c.
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Billy Bragg - The Man in the Iron Mask
(Dec 21, 2007 - 13:17) | I used to think Mr. Bragg was something of a one trick pony, playing the angry young man. But 'Mermaid Avenue' turned me around right quick. This further confirms he's got some real talent.
c.
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U2 - Salomé
(Dec 18, 2007 - 08:19) | I can't see the title of this song without thinking of 'Norma Desmond' in 'Sunset Boulevard' with Bill Holden. Wonderful. For that alone it gets a 6.
c.
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Flaming Lips - Ego Tripping At the Gates of Hell
(Dec 18, 2007 - 08:15) | Odyzzeuz wrote:
The Lips are definitely a little deeper and weirder and harder to understand than your average Clear Channel band.
YA THINK?!?! Which is all the more reason to dig them. I don't think I could EVER explain exactly WHY I like them. Maybe that's the essence of their appeal...
c.
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Katie Melua - It's All In My Head
(Dec 17, 2007 - 08:25) | She sounds like a combination of Neko Case and Nina Persson. Not bad, although her material is lighter than either of theirs.
c.
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The Jam - Town Called Malice
(Dec 17, 2007 - 08:11) | I never paid attention to the words. Wow, this song is cool: catchy upbeat pop wrapped around a bleak picture, wrapped up with a bow of 'get off yer a$$'.
c.
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Ani Difranco - Little Plastic Castle
(Dec 14, 2007 - 13:52) | agnes wrote: Nothing like falling in love with someone while curled up together and listening to this album for the first time, then hearing this song played at his wedding reception ten years later.
(Stab, bleed, fall down.)
Wedding reception?! This is not exactly wedding reception music, or at least the THEME isn't. Unless it was one of those 'alternative' weddings...
Still, what a crummy episode.
c.
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Vince Guaraldi Trio - Linus and Lucy
(Dec 14, 2007 - 12:18) | Ja300Mes wrote:
Pardon my naivete - but what does "meh" mean? I've seen it used here many times.
Just means 'nothing special', or 'blah'. Not as negative as 'blech' or 'barf' or 'sounds like ice picks being rammed into my ears'.
You have naivete? You should see a doctor about that...
xoxox,
c.
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The Staple Singers - I'll Take You There
(Dec 14, 2007 - 10:00) | TheLoneIguana wrote: I just saw Mavis Staples perform in Modesto (of all places) this weekend. She and the crowd were having a blast with this song. Very cool.
She did a short set for the Paramount Theater's 91st birthday celebration. We had box seats: about fifteen feet away from her. She rocked the freakin' house! Set wasn't nearly long enough, but the celebration still had a lot of other festivities to get through.
My folks didn't know who she is. I kept saying 'Mavis Staples? The Staple Singers? Pop Staples? Hello?' They became instant fans though...
c.
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Old 97s - Barrier Reef
(Dec 14, 2007 - 08:24) | - What's so great about the Barrier Reef?
- What's so fine about Art?
- What's so good about a Good Times Van?
THESE are the questions that have plagued man since the dawn of time...
Old 97's rock the house! More please!
c.
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Dave Matthews Band - Bartender
(Dec 13, 2007 - 09:58) | MonkeyPod wrote: What a cool song! Has anyone heard of these guys before?
Gee, I'd sure like to hear more from them.
I know. I still like them though: "Hello, my name is Chris. I am... a, uh, I am a... Dave Matthews fan."
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Mazzy Star - Flowers In December
(Dec 12, 2007 - 15:06) | TimeWave wrote: The same thing happens with this group that happens with Jethro Tull. Mazzy Star is not the name of the woman who sings for this group. Her name is Hope Sandoval. Just as Jethro Tull's lead singer is Ian Anderson. Sorry to be git about this, but it is a pet peeve of mine. Thanks for listening!
So, which guy was Lynyrd Skynyrd?
Also a peeve of mine, I just hadda pull your chain.
c.
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Duane Eddy - Rebel Rouser
(Dec 11, 2007 - 13:35) | Detlaps wrote: I thought I was listening to a golden oldie station that's broadcast out in the high desert!
I'm sure you mean that in the best possible way!
c.
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Duane Eddy - Rebel Rouser
(Dec 11, 2007 - 13:34) | mgoldman wrote:After Duane Eddy, you need to Rumble with Link Wray and Wraymen
Oh yeah, baby!
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Patty Griffin - Cold As It Gets
(Dec 11, 2007 - 12:55) | Heard the voice: solid 8. Kept listening: 9. By the end of the song: solid 10. But what else do you expect from Patty Griffin? Nothing less than stunning. c.
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Steely Dan - Aja
(Nov 16, 2007 - 09:23) | Dior wrote:
Wow, thanks for the link, that was amazing. Yet, even though I recognize the technical quality and the studio savoir-faire, I just can't relate to their music. It's like putting the best programmers together to produce the best web page, and then they only show the code.
A fair assessment. But there are always nerds who want to see the code!
Illustrative anecdote: on another forum I'm on (I know, I cheat on RP occasionally), folks sometimes post 'nudie' pics. In that forum, know what a 'nudie' pic is? A stereo component with the cover off! Old Sansui's in particular: check out the transistors on that baby! And her coils are HUGE!
Still, I love's me some Steely Dan. Played on a solid-state amp. Lovely.
c.
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Lynyrd Skynyrd - I Know A Little
(Nov 15, 2007 - 14:15) | You chumps think Lynyrd Skynyrd is a three chord band? Try playing this song sometime, hot stuff. Let me know how that works out.
Heck, just try the piano lick.
THE Southern Rock band. Often imitated, never duplicated.
c.
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Sixpence None The Richer - A Million Parachutes
(Nov 15, 2007 - 09:34) | wondertoofar wrote:
I'm curious about this distinguishing of bands labeled "Christian". If we have a band in which some or all the members believe in anything else we don't label them as whatever that belief is followed by band. For example a Buddhist band or a Muslim band. This only happens for Christian bands.
This doesn't stop with bands either. Curious. Don't you think? What do you think is behind that?
I'll offer one explanation. One of the principles of Christianity is 'evangelism', aka 'spreading the good news of Jesus Christ'. This is a basic tenet of Christianity, that Christians are OBLIGATED to try and convert as many people as possible. Obviously some groups are more aggressive than others, but it explains why Mormons have such a strong missionary program (although not everyone believes Mormons are Christians, but that's another discussion).
So the thing is, a 'Muslim' or 'Buddhist' band does not have the same intentions as a 'Christian' band: Muslims and Buddhists are not OBLIGATED to spread the word of their religion.
Just a thought.
I kind of like 'Sixpence', and not just because they're local kids.
c.
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Ellen McIlwaine - Can't Find My Way Home
(Nov 14, 2007 - 19:14) | bokey wrote:
You mean the Janis Ian who is 6 years younger than her?
Really? Shows how much I know. This is very nice, no matter what. And I really like Janis Ian too: my comparison was intended to be complementary to a 'newcomer', but you set me straight. Learn something new every day on RP...
c.
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The Clash - London Calling
(Nov 14, 2007 - 18:54) | Still stunning. Maybe more so: age has imbued The Clash in general, and this song in particular, with an urgency I didn't understand back then. But now, DAMN these guys captured the essence of the age.
c.
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Pink Martini - Hang On Little Tomato
(Nov 14, 2007 - 18:35) | killahfunkadelic wrote: Hi, and thanks for joining us on this week's edition of 'This Old House'.
Yep, that's exactly what I thought. In a good way: TOH is one of my weekend habits.
c.
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Oi Va Voi - Yuri
(Nov 14, 2007 - 18:25) | This reminds me of 'The Red Elvises'. In a good way, oddly enough.
c.
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The Specials - Message to You Rudy
(Nov 14, 2007 - 16:49) | a_genuine_find wrote: HEY RUDY, I HAVE A MESSAGE TO YOU FROM A NATIVE NEW YORKER...
Your politically commentary is duly noted. And not disagreed with, I must add. However Mr. Guiliani was probably still in short pants when ska came into being. And The Specials certainly are not talking about him here...
c.
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Michael Penn - Me Around
(Nov 08, 2007 - 09:44) | meydele wrote:I came here to comment on how Lennonish/Beatlesish this sounds, especially his voice, but I see that I am not the first to think that. On the cutting edge, that's me!!
Join the club. I'm so far behind, I think I'm FIRST!
Dig Michael Penn though. Is he related to Sean?
c.
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Unkle - In a State
(Nov 08, 2007 - 09:32) | jagdriver wrote: Opening piano riff reminiscent of Tubular Bells theme. Though nice, I agree it doesn't add anything to this track.
Yeah, I thought I was about to hear Tubular Bells also. This is not bad though.
c.
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The Be Good Tanyas - Scattered Leaves
(Nov 06, 2007 - 14:45) | EniwaMan wrote: No doubt about it, Frazey has a unique voice, and usually that means some love it and some hate it (see also: Neil Young, Bob Dylan, Natalie Merchant, John Hyatt, Tom Waits, and many others) There's no accounting for taste. I absolutely adore her voice. Love the Tanyas! To indulge in a cliché, she could sing the phone book and make it sound good. I understand the voice thing is a deal killer for people who don't like it, but there is so much more about this song to love: the groove, the melody, the lyrics.... It's a 10 for me.
Cliché away, my friend. I dig her voice too.
c.
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Steve Earle - Copperhead Road
(Nov 06, 2007 - 14:30) | ProgFrog wrote: Did you hear the anti-semitic Ann Coulter made lately? She's hardly what you would call a lefty.
What? You don't like Ann Coulter? Communist.
xoxox,
c.
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Creedence Clearwater Revival - Wrote A Song For Everyone
(Nov 06, 2007 - 14:00) | Never heard this before. Like it, a lot. Sort of a Sixties protest song, but in the sad blues tradition rather than the angry young man tradition (which CCR helped define). Seems particularly appropriate these days.
Which brings up another point, quite disturbing to me: the angry/sad/bitter/disillusioned 'protest' songs of the Sixties are amazingly timely. The same sense of government acting in direct opposition to the will of the people, the same young men (and women) dying in a far-away and ill-conceived conflict. It is truly disturbing to see the same issues come full circle. The Sixties were a huge turning point in America, much of it for the worse, and I'm seeing shades of the same thing now. Sad and disturbing: did no one learn from the mistakes of the past?
c.
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Steve Earle - Telephone Road
(Nov 05, 2007 - 11:46) | Johray63 wrote: I like it from the start, but start loving it when the background vocals come in.
The background vocalgroup's name is the Fairfield Four. 5(!) senior gentleman who can still get the place cooking, as someone, who visited a concert of theirs, told me.
I didn't know that's the Fairfield Four. Their lineup has changed a few times over the years, since they've been performing since the 40's: no surprise there's five now. They're awesome in their own right.
c.
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Live - Lightning Crashes
(Nov 05, 2007 - 11:28) | Vivian wrote:
I would just like to put in a FEW words in defense of this song, despite its "christian" bent/s.
Most of you who think of it as a "turnoff" have no idead how sexy it is to "try" to concieve a baby. Not that this song seems to me specifically designed to be a "turnon" or a makeout song.
It seems to me to be a poignant statement about the "spiritual" gravity-shifting cathartic experience of giving birth, and how connected life is to death. It touches on these mysteries BRAVELY. The power of that, always raises the hair on my head.
It is not for the faint of heart. I listened carefully to the lyrics & I'm not completely certain it isn't about death in childbirth. There is confusion..."the confusion sets in"...then an angel opens its eyes...does a pure new life, open its eyes, or does a baby or mother open its eyes in the realm of spirit, beyond this life?
The doors of birth have always hovered close to the gates of death, especially for women. I find it a tremendous accomplishment for a man to be singing such a song. The writer of this song, seems to be someone of incredible EMPATHY. ..."I can feel it"...!
Well said.
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Alexi Murdoch - Orange Sky
(Nov 05, 2007 - 11:20) | I saw him at ACL Fest several years ago. It was awesome: about a hundred folks sitting under some big oaks, just him on stage. The only downside was when Robert Earl Keen started his set on one of the big stages: poor Alexi got drowned out. He took it in stride though, and played a great set.
c.
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Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt - Kisses Sweeter Than Wine
(Oct 31, 2007 - 09:09) | KSC wrote:
My guess would be David Lindley, Browne's long time buddy and sideman, who can play anything with frets. Amazing  .
And probably a lot of things without, as well. I've been a fan of Mr. Lindley a long time: his sound his both unique AND understated.
J.B. and B.R. are not normally big faves of mine, but on this song, WOW!
c.
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Queen - Keep Yourself Alive
(Oct 30, 2007 - 14:51) | ziggytrix wrote:
the internet is full of people spewing "hatred" for anything and everything. it's amazing.
I hate the haters.
Just joshin'.
This is not my fave Queen material, but dang, Freddy Mercury could BRING IT!
c.
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The Frames - The Cost
(Oct 24, 2007 - 15:11) | Another song in the 'droning, morose' category. In a good way: just like 16 Hp's 'Hutterite Mile', I'm diggin' it. This one gets better every time I hear it. Something about it is powerful. Maybe I have a problem...
c.
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Sixteen Horsepower - Hutterite Mile
(Oct 24, 2007 - 15:05) | drife wrote: This must be the "I'm committing suicide" set. PG's "Growing Up", followed by this droning, morose song.
You say it like it's a bad thing. I'm diggin' it. But I'm droning and morose too, so ymmv.
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Christians and Lions - Skinny Fists
(Oct 24, 2007 - 14:49) | cc_rider wrote:
I'm thinking 'Old 97s meet Bright Eyes', sort of.
c.
Still likin' it, still sounds like Rhett Miller hangin' out with Conor Oberst.
c.
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Guadalcanal Diary - Trail of Tears
(Oct 24, 2007 - 14:32) | Baby_M wrote: If REM were emotionally engaged with their material, they'd be these guys.
Yeah, that's IT! This song has the ENERGY missing from a lot of REM's work. I gotta bump this up to a 9, it really kicks.
c.
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Nickel Creek - Smoothie Song
(Oct 24, 2007 - 08:21) | jcjoh wrote: Great talent. Must be fantastic live. Boring song on Internet radio.
Maybe it's my penchant for mando- and vio-lins, but I think it's quite energetic. Stunning musicianship, for starters, and a unique spin on the 'bluegrass-inspired' genre.
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Elliott Smith - Angeles
(Oct 23, 2007 - 10:21) | vandal wrote:
. . .the center cannot hold, and neither could Elliott.
'This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you'
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Cracker - The Good Life
(Oct 23, 2007 - 08:02) | hippiechick wrote:
Like Cracker alot. Especially with Leftover Salmon!
Leftover Salmon on Cracker(s)... Mmm...
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Mark Knopfler and Emmylou Harris - Rollin' On
(Oct 23, 2007 - 08:00) | Lazaerus wrote: mmm, that's funny I thought for sure those songs were on the Ragpickers Dream album, in fact I know they are. Those songs are a tribute to Roger Miller and they are a bit corney, but then so were Roger Millers songs... maybe you should check out the correct album to find out more info?
Roger Miller? Corny? Philistine.
What about the existential angst of 'You Can't Roller Skate in a Buffalo Herd', or the heartbreak of a broken family in 'My Uncle Used to Love Me But She Died'? I won't even TRY to address 'Do-Wacka-Do': its layers are too dense to be analyzed in a brief synopsis.
Happy Listening!
c.
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Mark Knopfler and Emmylou Harris - Rollin' On
(Oct 23, 2007 - 07:55) | Two of the most talented performers of this or any era. Mr. Knopfler has a crisp distictive guitar style, and Ms. Harris' voice could bring emotional import to a grocery list. ANYTHING off this album starts at an 8 for me!
c.
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John Lee Hooker - Spellbound
(Oct 23, 2007 - 07:52) | I must admit this isn't my fave Mr. Hooker material, but the fact it's the foundation for so much later work, some good ('Hot For Teacher'), some awesome (ZZ Top's LaGrange), gives it an 8.
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Elton John - Can I Put You On
(Oct 19, 2007 - 07:49) | While not my fav Elton John material, this still takes me away, like Tumbleweed and Chateau. When they were good, they were VERY good.
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Steve Earle - Copperhead Road
(Oct 18, 2007 - 09:53) | Bocephus wrote:
Same...would like to hear what was deemed racist. Saw him play in the liberal enclave of Boulder and he managed to piss off a few people who must have held some right-wing political philosophies. Can't imagine why anyone who was a Bush fan would come to see Steve anyway, but they started heckling him when he was bashing Bush and Steve simply said that he was glad this was a free country so both of them were free to express what they thought. He didn't cut the guy down at all, but he didn't shy away from the political talk. He prefaced this song with, "If you think this song isn't political then you're not paying attention."
Sounds about right. There's a quote something like "If both sides are pissed at you, you're doing something RIGHT."
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Dire Straits - The Man's Too Strong
(Oct 16, 2007 - 08:27) | Hannio wrote:
Which is a type of guitar, no?
Kind of. I'm pretty sure that is what is known as a 'National Guitar', a metal-bodied guitar.
A 'dobro' or 'slide guitar' can also be an instrument you put on your lap to play. It has no 'neck': the body runs the full length of the strings.
But I'm not a player: I'd welcome further clarification.
c.
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Elton John - Burn Down The Mission
(Oct 15, 2007 - 09:24) | I've probably listened to this album hundreds of times. It still grabs me. I'm still not sure what Bernie was trying to say, maybe he was painting a picture instead of telling a story. Regardless, it's still stunning after all these years.
c.
edit> I think his 'phrasing' is part of the appeal. In the break it rushes along, a tiny fraction ahead of the beat, creating urgency. Then he slows it back down, drawing the phrases out, as if in resignation. The man is pure genius at drawing emotion out of a song.
c.
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Jimi Hendrix - All Along The Watchtower
(Oct 11, 2007 - 13:43) | a_genuine_find wrote: Informal poll:
Preferred AATW track -
Hendrix or Dylan?
Hendrix's version. It has more energy than Dylan's.
I like DMB's version too, but I may be the only forty-something on the planet who still (or ever) likes DMB, so YMMV.
c.
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Grateful Dead - Uncle John's Band
(Oct 10, 2007 - 10:09) | I've always wondered if this song has a specific historical reference. The lyrics give a hint to the American Revolution "their motto is 'Don't Tread On Me'", but I haven't found anything more specific.
Love it, regardless.
c.
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Ripley Caine - Hey Mister
(Oct 09, 2007 - 09:49) | oscar_driver wrote: A Woman singing .... is a 7 just because ...
Oscar
I'm with you. Never heard her before, but that voice made me stop and look. Nice.
c.
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Blind Boys Of Alabama - Nobody's Fault But Mine
(Oct 05, 2007 - 12:46) | Wack-A-Mole wrote: When I hear music like this (delta blues) it makes me feel proud that I'm a descendant of slaves. I'm in the process of setting up in Texas on land that my great grand father purchased 11 years after slavery ended. Being a city raised person being able to have RP give me a piece of home in a new town and then to play music like this is amazing. Hearing the blues in the south has added meaning to me.
That's a pretty cool story. It's great the land stayed in the family that long, many folks were not so lucky, having been run off by 'fires of undetermined origin' and other mysterious circumstances. The little town of Manor ('May-nor, not 'Manner') near Austin suffered something of that fate: it was a thriving community until the 50's, when a spate of unexplained fires permanently damaged the community. 'What's Eating Gilbert Grape' was filmed there, as was parts of 'Honeysuckle Rose'.
Our 'country estate' is not far from you: Smithville. We're only about twenty minutes apart! It's more 'country' than 'estate': 20 acres and a single-wide. But it's quiet, a nice escape from the city.
Thanks for sharing your story!
c.
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Chuck Berry - Nadine
(Oct 05, 2007 - 10:44) | Misterfixit wrote:
...still sponsored in part by the FEMA of Katrina fame.
Yeah, that'll work out a LOT better!
j/k. Thanks for the FYI. I think that stuff is pretty interesting. But I'm an enginerd, so YMMV.
c.
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Nick Drake - Northern Sky
(Oct 04, 2007 - 12:33) | horstman wrote:
Like Elliot Smith. . . Sad, but true.
Vincent Van Gogh?
"The World was never meant for one as beautiful as you"
Say what you will about Don McLean, he could turn a phrase.
Rest In Peace, Nick, Elliot, and Vincent.
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Riviera Paradise
(Oct 03, 2007 - 13:22) | robco1 wrote:
Agreed. Not even close to the drivel that is Kenny G.
I had a conversation with a trumpet player (who must remain nameless) who knew KG and said that he knew damn well that he was making crap. He just wanted to get paid.
I'm sure a lot of those guys feel the same way. I saw Kirk Whalum in concert about ten years ago, before he became a 'smooth jazz' staple, and he blew the doors off the joint. His whole band did: the lead guitarist played as if he was wrestling a live baboon! Incredible intensity and musicianship. But bills gotta be paid...
c.
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John Butler Trio - Funky Tonight
(Oct 03, 2007 - 09:06) | RobK wrote: For no reason I clicked back 24 hrs on the playlist and guess who was playing - John Butler Trio. Different song but still quite the coincidence. Or is it?? Hmmm.
There are no coincidences. Cue 'Twilight Zone' theme...
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William Shatner - Common People
(Oct 02, 2007 - 09:33) | ThePoose wrote:
His ego has not--and will not--deflate; he figured out that self-deprecation was simply another tool to keep the spotlight turned onto him, his hairpiece, and his monster ego. Don't you know the joker laughs at you? Ha ha ha. Hee hee hee. Ho ho ho.
Probably a pretty fair analysis. It's a good thing he's pretty good at it. I hardly ever watched 'Boston Legal', but the casting was truly inspired: what a team. They really did a great job.
Ol' Bill is laughing at himself all the way to the bank. Go Bill, Go!
c.
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Santana - Europa (Earth's Cry, Heaven's Smile)
(Oct 02, 2007 - 08:56) | Okay okay, all you snipers: Santana HAS been re-using the same licks for awhile. So what? So has Phillip Glass. Jackson Pollack had one trick too. He may just have one trick, but that trick is really freakin' good. Most of us never even have that.
c.
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Texas - I Want to Go to Heaven
(Oct 02, 2007 - 08:50) | Never heard of them. Dig them. Great voice: Susan Tedeschi is a good comparison but I like this lady better.
'Texas' though? Must be an 'homage' or something.
c.
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Janis Joplin - Me and Bobby McGee
(Oct 01, 2007 - 10:24) | underarmor wrote: Back about 10 years ago I was bartending at a restaurant in Austin called Threadgill's where Janis got her start (so the story goes). Anyway, they had live music on Wednesday's and one year they were celebrating Janis's birthday by having a bunch of different acts sing Janis songs. I got the pleasure of hearing about 4-5 versions of this within about an hour.
Mandy Mercier doing Turtle Blues is a home run for anybody that likes the Janis style. It's on the second Threadgill's Supper Sessions cd.
Must've been the original up on Lamar? The story is correct: Kenneth Threadgill did indeed give Ms. Joplin a start in his establishment. She was also voted 'Ugliest Man on Campus' while she attended the University, so she was not always a big fan of the city, or the state for that matter. Her hometown of Port Arthur was reluctant to acknowledge her for many years.
I used to own Mr. Threadgill's house, and have it on good authority she crashed on the couch there for quite some time.
c.
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Cyndi Lauper - She Bop (acoustic)
(Oct 01, 2007 - 10:05) | MojoJojo wrote: I think you are giving her waaay too much credit...
Yeaaah, no. Cyndi Lauper is an accomplished musician who's remained quite busy in her 'declining years'. She is quite intelligent and is dedicated to a variety of worthwhile causes.
I've never been much of a fan of hers, and don't think all that much of this song either, but I give credit where it is due. I'll stick by my interpretation: there is no way she thinks an acoustic version of 'She Bop' is serious. It is clearly a tongue-in-cheek performance, made for giggles at least. Think of Alanis Morrissette doing her emo version of 'My Humps': it's the same sort of schtick.
c.
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10 CC - Dreadlock Holiday
(Oct 01, 2007 - 08:17) | Paul_in_Australia wrote:
It is, errr, the English language. The truth is that the English language has always been permeable to new words, and it is the richer for its flexibility. The main threats to English English are the spellchecker and grammar checker bundled with Microsoft software, which defaults to some strange patois that would have Shakespeare searching for the nearest asp
Maybe the descriptor you're looking for is BRITISH. Encompasses the English as well as British subjects such as Scots and B.C.ers.
c.
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Martha Wainwright - Factory
(Sep 28, 2007 - 13:43) | omniphiliac wrote: Pardon my ignorance, but does anybody else hear Cocteau Twins?
Yes, a little. Not in a bad way. I think Ms. Wainwright will be around longer than the Twins though.
c.
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Morrissey - Everyday Is Like Sunday
(Sep 28, 2007 - 13:40) | I have no idea why I like Morrissey so much. And it doesn't much matter, does it?
I can see how he tends to polarize people, he's definitely not for everyone. But us morose brooding emo types just love him.
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Stevie Ray Vaughan - Pipeline
(Sep 28, 2007 - 09:48) | Dick Dale isn't playing on this is he? I can't imagine him sharing a stage.
Nice cover. Little bit different sound than D.D.
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The Clash - I Fought The Law
(Sep 28, 2007 - 09:00) | Awesome cover. The Clash makes it an ANGRY anthem, where Bobby Fuller made it a sad lament.
Is there such a thing as a happy lament? Don't think so. Oh well.
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Neil Young - Throw Your Hatred Down
(Sep 27, 2007 - 13:18) | joeheyming wrote: Am I the only one that confuses Neil Young's name with Neil Diamond?
^_^
Yeah, I get them mixed up all the time. What if Neil Young covered some of Mr. Diamond's hits? I'd love to hear a hard-drivin' whiny version of 'Heartlight'...
c.
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Now a little Jelly Roll Morton.....
