Music

Wednesday Listens E09

Time for a completely different take on this week. Going to feature a variety of mashups, covers, and edits. Because why the hell not.

Walking on campus with this track in the background makes you feel so important. Fall Out Boy in the background somehow just goes with Lil Wayne, don’t ask why. Indie meets Rap, hello.

Remember that week I chose Electric Feel by MGMT. Ya, I don’t remember either. Wellll this week here’s a cover that’s been slowed down and added with a sick beat.

Listened to this song maybe one too many times last semester. Melanie Martinez was a contestant on the voice, and wowed audiences with “Toxic.” Enter Cestladore adding a spin to the song.

 

Wednesday Listens E08

This is essentially a Wally de Backer (AKA Gotye) theme week, because hey, the man is super talented.

Now before you think “oh is she just going to have ‘Somebody That I Used to Know'” song?” One: I was considering it. Two: Well I’m going to have other songs ’cause I want to show you some of his other songs that will have you going “WOW I SHOULD HAVE GIVEN THIS MAN A SHOT”

Fun fact. Wally de Backer is part of “The Basics” A stellar band that experiments with guitar, drums, vocals, and have impact-ful lyrics.

Love the video for this song. And his voice. And the lyrics. Oh plus the riff. And everything.

This a catchy poppy song from The Basics, much different sound from the previous song. Takes a more direct band-y song route (if that’s a thing?)

Super creepy video but I love it. The (I want to guess) flute is a great edition with the softer drums. Plus their suits are super adorbs.

Now before Indie88 continues making those “Find Gotye 2014” jokes again, he’s actually performing with The Basics and had an album release in AU on Aug. 14th (if you actually did your research…)

Cheers.

Wednesday Listens E07

Time for some High School throwback music.

“It’s funny how you just break down // Waitin’ on some sign”
That’s the line that got me for this number. Also the stache, but that’s not related. Or maybe it’s the guitar solo that ends with a faster tempo with powerful drum beat that gets me. It’s the song to walk, dance, belt out to.
Basically when I was in high school and spent most of my time at the library either during my lunch or before my shift at UPS this was on loop on my SanDisk Sansa MP3 player.

If you haven’t heard “Electric Feel” by MGMT by now, where were you in 2008? The psychedelic music makes you able to let go of your thoughts and flow with the music.

Konk is one of my all-time favourite albums. As such, it’s difficult choosing just one song off the album. BUT, “Do you Wanna?” has been a favourite for some time now. It’s that guitar riff that sucks you in, and especially when the music slows down with the drum beat steadying off. PLUS who can deny that ever-so low shirt paired with a great leather jacket? Swoooon </sarcasm>

 

 

Wednesday Listens E06

Get to it.

I had the pleasure of seeing X Ambassadors open up for Imagine Dragons in March 2014. Once they opened up, I knew I would be seeing more of them – which we kind of did last summer (not just this summer) when OITNB used “Jungle” Their use of synths and vocals make them a strong electronic group. Instead of presenting you with that one single (Renegades) you’ve seen Jeep use for the whole summer, I thought I would let you know they have some other great music too that you should listen to.

While technically not a new song, I wish RAC had more exposure (be sure to follow his Facebook for weekly caturday photos). Man. The riff in this song is sick and sticks with me. I’m glad RAC used Kele for the main vocals, his voice suits the foundation. Not related, I love the male actor in this video, he’s totally cute, has the right facial expressions, and plays the part well. Definitely did not listen to this on repeat walking around campus. . .

*video not recommended for those with weak stomachs as she’s a Hannibal Lecter type character*

Another solid guitar riff from Two Door Cinema Club paired with a cute music video. And the lyrics are on point. Was he thinking of me. It’s a pop-y alternative sound, but gets your toes a-tapping.

Wednesday Listens E05

Fifth “episode” is here. I have some nice folky tunes for your glorious day ahead. Turns out they all have to do with fire as well. Makes sense since today is suppose to be one hell of a day. (ha i’m so lame.)

What a cutie Vance Joy is. Vance Joy has a way with words that cause you to be caught up with the song, which is most definitely a good thing. Any artist who is able to have this pull over you is good in my books.

Rolling Stones’ song “Fire” is too short for my liking. The guitar riff keeps this song solid and makes me want more. I also have to loop this twice five times.

Finally this is one of my favourite songs by Kasabian. One: Vocals vocals vocals. If you haven’t figured it out, I love some good vocals. Next, mix of tempos are important. This song works because it has found a balance between that slow tempo and then is able to bring the tempo up without being off putting. Finally, there’s something about the lyrics with this song that hooks you in. Check out other Kasabian songs. Off of this album – West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum – in particular, I really like “Where Did All the Love Go?”

Until next week.

Wednesday Listens E04

Fourth installment of Wednesday Listens underway. Going to present you with some newer sounds this week that you should DEFINITELY give a listen to.

Our lovely lead singer of Killers is going solo (again). I debated whether posting “Can’t Deny my Love” but settled on “Still Want You.” Brandon Flowers presents us with an albeit Killers sounding song that uses a great mixture of vocals, beats, and synth sounds. The vocals remind me of “Read My Mind” but the female back-up singers gives it a new 60s twist. Keep in mind, this isn’t the first time Flowers has gone solo. In 2010 he came out with his album Flamingo. It just seems – at least to me – that his solo career is more pronounced five years later.

Two underexposed artists, STS & RJD2, collaborate together to create beautiful sounds. Throughout the album RJD2 lays down a nice electronic base to STS’ rapping skills. Decided to share “Doin’ It Right” because I simply love the beat and whistling. Prepare to head bop to this one.

Lastly I decided on some Tame Impala even though this song has been around for a few months now. “Let It Happen” is a great single that doesn’t disappoint. Tame Impala uses their familiar sounds of psychedelic beats, synths and scary John Lennon vocals. Sometimes you just gotta let it happen.

Wednesday Listens E03

This week has bit of a theme. Circa late 2000s in fact + some other themes you can use your head to figure out.

Oh The Tragically Hip. (that band everyone’s prof always talked about — or just mine?). Enjoy their 2006 single “In View” while you reminisce about that old crush, current crush, or just a person you’ve been meaning to call.

Bloc Party will forever have a special place in my heart. Intimacy is by my favourite album from them, mainly because the album flows with each song. “Flux” has a great beat and features my favourite word. Just say it with me “flux” sigh, doesn’t that feel good? It’s the x at the end (I swear I’m not crazy.)

Kings of Leon have those rough vocals you lust over. Just going to leave this song here and say no more.

Wednesday Listens: E02

Second episode of “Wednesday Listens.” Are you excited?

Is it the horns? The beat? The vocals? I don’t know but whatever it is, it’s working. Super catchy, instant mood improve, Saint Motel do not disappoint with this single! “Just My Type,” where were you a few months ago?

A bit on the older song, I know. But I’m liking it! Now that you’ve grown tired of “Take Me To Church,” watch Natalie Dormer in “Someone New.”

I wish I had taken Alabama Shakes seriously when I first saw their image posted by SNL on Facebook. Man oh man is this song promising.

Wednesday Listens: Edition 01

Each week I will present you with three tracks that you should keep on replay for the weekend. Welcome to the first edition of “Wednesday Listens.”

This is a solid track from Beck. I remember scoping through my dad’s music and seeing albums from Beck, but nothing stuck with me. I feel that it has been this past year that his music has grown on me. Morning Phase had some noteworthy tracks including his single “Blue Moon.”
After listing to “Dreams,” I’m excited to see where his new album goes!

Awe yeah. Who can forget our American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert? Say what you will, but come on, this track is hella catchy. Unfortunately it’s paired with a video that makes you want to look away due to the amount of flashing images.

Country? Pop? ELECTRONIC? I’m confused yet can’t stop listening.