Category Archives: Music Maniac

Dreamy Girls. This is not a new concept, but these women have it.  Simple melodies with childlike voices against a backdrop of charming tones. Mellow into the world of Alice in Wonderland. Melt into a fantasy of innocence. They also cover a David Bowie song “oh you pretty thing” Check that out on iTunes for bowie fans…

Girl meets Boy, Boy meets Girl…anything goes!!! I cannot wait for this full length CD to come out shortly from this new import group. I have always been drawn to the synth-pop from the 80’s and here we go again. The strong voice with the minimal beats, brings backs memories or yaz, visage and early Sinead O’Conner. Danceteria days, Boybar, Area, all put me in the mood for this music years ago. This time I do not know where it will take me, but it will be razor sharp!!

This music will:
– Cut you like a Knife.
– Gothic Gone Pretty.
– Mid-Evil with a Heart.
– Melodic and Mysterious
– Dry and Dusty
– Beauty and the Beast
– Subliminal Sounds

Explore the unknown…Fever Ray.

NOW

Decembertists, The Hazards of Love 2009

Rock Opera Returns…do not listen to this CD one track at a time. It must be heard in its entirety. I even listened to this during a cardio session. It’s all about the whole. I love the name of this group. They have a vintage sound…what ever that means…and their music makes you feel like you have traveled back in time to a distant land. Although the story maybe a little disturbing and tragic at times, isn’t that what opera is all about?

THEN

The Who: Tommy 1969

Everyone knows this is the classic rock opera . The Who never sounded so good. Hearing this re-mastered version makes you understand why they are considered one of the greatest rock acts on earth. Remember to pay close attention to Keith Moon’s drumming. He is part of what made this band ROCK!. There is beauty in this music. Feel it, Hear it and See it!!

NOW

Pet Shop Boys: Yes, 2009

Leave it to the boys to have a graphic image and a graphic message: YES. We all need some Yes in our lives. Talk about “positive”. These boys are like the energizer bunny, they keep on going. This new CD (I recommend buying the deluxe 2 disc set from Amazon) is fun bouncy and pure pop for now. With all the 80’s fashion on its way, why not get into some sythn. Many of these songs were written for Kylie to sing but ended up back to the boys. Go get some YES for your ears.

THEN

Kylie Minogue: Fever, 2002

Sythn out with Kylie. This fun and bouncy sexy CD brings back nights of clubbing and pure pop. This idol is not what you think…She’s the European dance diva. The pet shop boys are a fan and so am I!

I tell everyone that I don’t do reviews, but I did promise I would let you know about this extravagant  event. This concert was one I will remember for ever. It was rock and roll at its best. In honor of Morrissey and The Smiths, I decided to do a list (yes I happen to love lists, all kinds!) of my favorite titles.

It was impossible to do a top 10 from 25 years of songwriting so it became:
MY TOP 20 Morrissey Song Titles( I hope you enjoy)…

FYI, this is not a set list

1-something is squeezing my skull
2-everyday is like sunday
3-the more you ignore me, the closer i get
4-the last of the famous international playboys
5-november spawned a monster
6-we hate it when our friends become successful
7-let me kiss you
8-there is a light that never goes out
9-bigmouth strikes again
10-the world is full of crashing bores
11-shoplifters of the world unite
12-last night i dreamed that somebody loved me
13-girlfriend in a coma
14-stop me if you think you’ve heard this one before
15-heaven knows im miserable now
16-the boy with the thorn in his side
17-william,it was really nothing
18-that joke isn’t funny anymore
19-you’re the one for me fatty
20-please,please,please let me get what i want

For those of you who know me and my large wooden armoire, you know that I’ve been buying CD’s by the tons for years.  This is why the Virgin Mega-Store has been my 2nd home for years. The sad news of this utopia of music closing in the next few months makes me realize that the plastic jewel case will soon be forgotten…just like the cassette tape, the eight track and of course vinyl. Music will be bought almost exclusively on line. Apple better get ready!!  The silverfox is coming.

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Middle Cyclone, 2009

Neko who? Case what? She is a woman. This singer must be heard. Her voice is both clear, confident and canary like. Almost country like, yet folkish. Neko is a story-teller who has lots to tell on her new absolutely fabulous new CD. She is not new and has been proving herself for years, but now she has arrived. Add some Neko to your ears. It may hit you like a hurricane.

THEN

Tigerlilly, 1995

Remember her? When she came on the scene in 10,000 maniacs, we were in our college days. The start of “alternative rock”. Her unique voice and storytelling was all mothering. Go back to the pond with Natalie.