2009 Album Reviews: NEIL YOUNG - FORK IN THE ROAD

Neil Young returns with what I see as an industrial album. In a previous post I said that the record was based around his hybrid-engine car project, Lincvolt. Well now that I have heard it I can definitely vouch for this as running throughout is an auto-centric feel with an environmental message to find alternative energy sources. This is evident in every song but the lyric that gets me is on ‘Get Behind the Wheel’ where he sings.

“You know she loves those long slow curves
So take her for a spin
(You gotta get behind the wheel)...she always wants to please you...”

Young is very open about his political stance and his support of social issues so if you are not into the political being overt in music this may not be your thing. However, I believe the best music ever written has been political or about certain issues and without this music would be dull and lifeless.

What to expect from ‘Fork In The Road’? I think there are some amazing songs on this album. ‘When Worlds Collide’ is the perfect opener because it’s an up- tempo rock song. I see in this song a lot of comparisons with his previous work e.g. Rockin’ In the Free World’ but without the punch in the chorus or seminal lyric or phrase. On first listen I enjoyed the tune but didn’t think it was one of my favourites from the album but now it’s growing on me rapidly. ‘Fuel Line’ isn’t anything too exciting but it does go well with ‘When Worlds Collide’. I really don’t have much to say about this except for the fact that his voice pretty much sounds the same as it did in the 60s. I don’t know if you all noticed that but whenever he releases a record you can tell from the get go that it’s Neil Young. ‘Just Singing A Song’ is absolutely the best on this album! There is a refinement in this song that is just not present in all his songs. It has everything; a meaningful lyric that is also interesting and a great guitar part for Neil to play on. I don’t know what it is but ‘Johnny Magic’ just doesn’t appeal to me. I think this has to do with the fact that after I heard the whole album for the third time I was very much over the car theme. But then I figured this was partly due to me playing Neil Young (older material included) for about 2 days straight. I returned to it just now and have to say, still not digging it. Oh well... I think ‘Cough Up the Bucks’ has an AMAZING groove that grabbed me as soon as I heard the first couple of notes. However, throughout the whole song Neil uses the phrase ‘Cough up the Bucks...’ in an annoyingly repetitive way. This is definitely not his best but the music is great so he wins a lot of points there. I adore ‘Get Behind the Wheel’ as it has a dirty southern rock feel with loads of heart. Also, I think the female backing vocalists help balance Neil’s rough around the edges voice and adds some edge. ‘Off the Road’ is the first track on this album to offer some harmonies even though it is very, very subtle. I love it when he does harmonies as not many singers or bands do it anymore. From ‘Off the Road’ to ‘Hit the Road’ there is a distinct change and I once again find myself completely blown away by how great a songwriter and musician Neil is. I still love ‘Just Singing A Song’ but this is coming in a close second. I am taken by the way it feels a lot like classic Neil Young and the first time I heard him when my Dad played Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s ‘Helpless’ to me. When I heard ‘Light a Candle’ for the first time I freaked because it was so stunning and light to listen to. I suggest for all those newcomers to Neil Young that aside from the classics like ‘Heart of Gold’ this track can be part of your introduction into his world. The closer to the album, ‘Fork in the Road’ finishes it the same way we started with a true rock & roll song. I am not too fond of it because it does sound similar to other stuff here but I guess it could be worse.

For me, ‘Fork In the Road’ is an album that is difficult for both long term fans and more casual fans, like myself because it is in many respects a concept album. I, for one, got tired of hearing about driving, the road and cars whether in metaphor or not, but despite this there are some songs that really ‘get’ you in a way only Neil Young’s songwriting can. This is a great record by many standards and every time he releases an album I will always get excited purely because of his amazing back catalogue and he does such interesting stuff even if it isn’t always my cup of tea.

U2's MAGNIFICENT from Anton Corbijn's LINEAR film

I already talked about Anton Corbijn's film 'Linear' that came with some of the versions of U2's No Line on the Horizon. I also said it was almost impossible to find online as you need a special code and password that only comes once you buy the album and its various bits and pieces. However, I was online and stumbled across the gem below, U2 performing Magnificent in Corbijn's 'Linear'. Obviously this is not the whole film but I do recommend going to buy the digi-pack or box set, anything beyond just the standard album to get access to this film. I promise you it is worth it!!!

Bands and Artists to Watch: Little Red

Melbourne based Little Red have been around the usual local venues and been extremely successful but it wasn't until 2008 we got a full LP called 'Listen to Little Red'. They have continued to prove themselves on the festival circuit and had a song on the hit show Underbelly. If you are new to the band I really recommend you check these clips out. They have great songs and a bright future with hopefully many great albums to come.

Sorry about not being able to embed the video for the song, 'Waiting' their YT channel won't allow it.

I will be seeing them at the Hi-Fi Bar next Friday and will give you a full report with pics from the gig. I haven't forgotten my gig review from the Killers set at V, just had real life stuff that has demanded my attention.

2009 Album Releases: ESKIMO JOE - INSHALLA

So it turns out I was wrong and Eskimo Joe's 4th album, Inshalla will not be released in June but May 29th 2009. However, this is only for Aussies but I will keep you updated with the international release date.

Also, the video for the first single, 'Foreign Land' is below. I am excitied...I love these guys and will probably see them on tour for this album at some point.

GREEN DAY'S KNOW YOUR ENEMY Video

Well I told you I would get it for you so here it is. This is a really good quality video so in case anyone missed it on MTV, VH1 and various other channels no need to worry. By the way, what do you all think?

Green Day - New Music - More Music Videos

Rumours: A New Blur Album

Do my ears deceive me, are Blur going to be recording another album soonish? Please say yes!!!! I hear they have a few comeback shows (inc. Glastonbury) in the UK this year which offers the perfect opportunity for them to head back into the studio. But, lets hope the tour goes well and they you know get along because otherwise I doubt they will record new material. Also, another important question, will they feud with Oasis again?? That whole thing takes me right back to the 1990s of Britpop and boybands!!

FINGERS CROSSED EVERYONE!

2009 Album Releases: GREEN DAY - 21st CENTURY BREAKDOWN

Hello fellow music lovers

I'd just thought I would drop you guys a video of the new Green Day single 'Know Your Enemy' and its B-Side 'Lights Out'. I think the official video is going to be launched on Friday so look out for it on your music channels but I do have a MTV preview of it below.

Tunes to chill to...

Hey guys, sorry about the delay between posts but I've been busy doing grad applications. Well I don't know about you but I had a pretty fantastic weekend. I caught up with friends for half price margaritas at Taco Bills and then we came back to mine for a chilled night. This got me thinking about a playlist or mixtape for a chilled night in with mates. There are a couple of ground rules that must be followed before I get into my list. First, don't play anything with too many beats as it will distract from your relaxed party, event, cocktail party or movie night etc...etc... Second, don't play anything too commercial, you want people to ask who that is but don't be too pretentious about this (cos' we all hate music snobs *wink, wink*). Third, nothing too unknown e.g. french new wave with more synthesizers than you can poke a stick at you don't want to scare your guests away. It is essential you have to find the right balance and then you are off and away.

Without further adieu this is how I would start a mixtape for a laid back partay.

1. White Winter Hymnal - Fleet Foxes. A great song and the return of bands that write songs with great harmonies like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young did. It has a cinematic feel to it and was one of my albums of 2008.
2. Zero - Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Wow!! An electro-punk song to get the party started without taking the roof off. But its just the type of song that you wanna groove to whilst sipping cocktails and having a good ole' time with friends.
3. Dusk Till Dawn - Ladyhawke. She is all about the great hook that is addictive in every sense of the word. I have a high regard for artists that make good pop songs rather than just have hype e.g. Britney Spears' latest album.
4. Kelly Watch the Stars - Air. I have loved Air since the beginning and their videos are amazing particularly this one. This song has a sci-fi quality to it so check it out
5. The Greatest - Cat Power. She changed my perception of the female singer/songwriter and after hearing about her and this record of the same name I went and re-explored singers like Joni and Janis and discovered Joan Baez. This one just feels right at the point in a party where its winding down and you've still got a few drinks in your system.

Well thats it please precede to your right for samples of the above songs!! Also, I will have The Killers review from V up at some point tomorrow.

Record Store Day Australia 2009

Well hello folks...

Guess what time of year.....it's RECORD STORE DAY. The Aussie part is being held on Saturday April 18th (yes, that is tomorrow) with a whole lot of events being staged at different record stores across Australia. I think the idea behind this event is awesome as record stores are slowly fading away, I'm talking about the small ones not chain stores with the wave of downloading that is going on these days. The same goes for the album which has given rise to the importance of the single. I personally love walking through the different sections of a record store looking for the album I had planned to get but stumbling on other bands and singers I haven't heard of and walking out with their albums too. I also miss talking to people who work at record stores about what they are listening to. Ok, enough about the state of the music industry. If you are in Australia please go tomorrow and support record stores and for those elsewhere I think there are worldwide events in all major cities.

Visit Record Store Day Australia for the timetable of events happening across Australia and all the other info you might need.

Also, is anyone planning to go? I think I might head to Basement Discs in the city, I've always loved that place. Ohhh....Little Birdy looks promising too.

Cya all there!

2009 Album Releases: BOB DYLAN - TOGETHER THROUGH LIFE

A Bob Dylan album release is always an interesting one. I always find his way of promoting a record different from any other musician as he doesn't do many interviews and the whole full on promo thing. This is his 46th studio release and his last since 2006; it is entitled, 'Together Through Life' and will be released on April 28th 2009. Here is the tracklisting for the album.

1. Beyond Here Lies Nothin'
2. Life Is Hard
3. My Wife's Home Town
4. If You Ever Go To Houston
5. Forgetful Heart
6. Jolene
7. This Dream Of You
8. Shake Shake Mama
9. I Feel A Change Comin' On
10. It's All Good

I have provided a link to an article by Michael Simmons from MOJO who was one of the lucky few to hear some of Dylan's new material. This article provides a unique insight into what most of the songs that will appear on the album sound like. I've also included a link to his site where you can listen to 'I Feel A Change Comin' On'. Also, all bands and singers take note, this is the way an official site should look, its user friendly and interactive without being overbearing. By the way, I like this song very much so hopefully it's a sign of good things to come. This could be a great year with both Dylan and Young releasing much anticipated albums and many critics saying they're AMAZING!

music=love

2009 Concert Reviews: V Festival Melbourne - KAISER CHIEFS

I'm back again revisiting the V Festival. I absolutely loved the Kaiser Chiefs' set which was amazing because of the enormous amount of energy they put into their performance which gave us all something special. The band, led by Ricky Wilson were consummate showmen whose excitement fed into ours and vice versa. We danced when Ricky danced, screamed like girls at a Jo Bros concert when he ventured into the crowd and ohhhhed and ahhhhed when he was climbing the scaffolding towards the side of the stage I was rocking out at.

The setlist was a full assault of their great indie hits and the band as a whole sounded right on, like a band that knew they wanted to get the whole crowd off. The crowd felt this and my brother and I sang our little hearts out along with most of the audience. Even those around me who were really hanging our for The Killers were like these guys aint bad and were ready to buy their records. I have to say with the benefit of hindsight they were on equal footing with The Killers in terms of setlist, performance, environment and band presence and charisma. They certainly held their own and are worthy of headlining festivals in the future. COME BACK SOON GUYS!!!

Setlist is as follows:

1. Spanish Metal
2. Everyday I Love You Less and Less
3. Everything Is Average Nowadays
4. You Want History
5. Ruby
6. Good Days Bad Days
7. Na Na Na Na Naa
8. Love's Not a Competition (But I'm Winning)
9. Modern Way
10. Never Miss a Beat
11. I Predict a Riot
12. Take My Temperature
13. The Angry Mob
14. Oh My God

Photos:
Photos © 2009 music=loveHEADLINERS - THE FANTABULOUS KILLERS are next!

2009 Album Releases: NEIL YOUNG - FORK IN THE ROAD

Neil Young's 'Fork In The Road' was released on April 7 2009, sorry about not getting this out to you sooner. I haven't heard it yet but it is supposed to have an environmental theme throughout and is based around his hybrid car project...interesting. The tracklisting that is below, pretty much gives you a BIG hint about the theme of the record so be prepared to hear a lot of automotive speak and possibly lyrics about driving...

1. When Worlds Collide
2. Fuel Line
3. Just Singing A Song
4. Johnny Magic
5. Cough Up the Bucks
6. Behind the Wheel
7. Off the Road
8. Hit the Road
9. Light a Candle
10. Fork In the Road

Also, check out Neil Young's official site for exclusives and all that jazz, including a short film called, 'Get Around' that features all the new songs.

I do have a deep respect for Neil as I think he has written some of the greatest songs of all time. He is the 'loner' of the singer/songwriters and has always done his own thing whether it is popular or not. I see him as one of the very few to be considered a truly alternative artist or musician. If you have not dabbled with Neil Young's work or have been put off by him for any number of reasons I really recommend trying to look beyond that because he is often not given the credit he deserves. His stuff is very accessible and he is absolutely in the same league as Bob Dylan and in my opinion better, but who cares what I think what do you think? Do you feel the love for Neil Young?

By the way, I haven't even bought the album yet but when I do you all will be the first to read my review.

music=love

Weekly Tunes...

HAPPY EASTER everyone I hope you all are enjoying the break and eating loads of chocolate!! Well here it is is....the weekly mixtape of songs that I am currently dancing around my house to.
1. This is Your Life - The Killers. Since I have seen them live I have rediscovered the Killers. The album this song is off offers something for both long term fans and casual fans. I think they are continuing to improve with each album and people who bagged them for 'Sam's Town' are dead wrong as that is a brilliant record. This song is not a single and may or may not be one in the future, I think I heard the next single will the 'The World We Live in'. However, this song has such a catchy chorus to it and I feel something special when I hear the line "....And the sky is full of dreams But you don't know how to fly..."
2. Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown) - The Beatles. An amazing song off Rubber Soul that sometimes gets neglected or forgotten amongst the greatness of the whole Beatles catalogue.
3. Time to Pretend - MGMT. Geez...this band have got it. What an amazing song. It sounds like nothing I've heard before. Everyone goes on about 'Electric Feel' but 'Time to Pretend' is just too awesome not to put on any party playlist either. So when you're going to have a party this is a MUST! Also, be sure to check out the Kaiser Chief's covering it on Radio 1 Live Lounge on the link below.

4. Enjoy the Silence - Depeche Mode. My love for Depeche Mode knows no bounds. I love the darkness to their songs. How do you describe their music? I think it's Joy Division meets dance/electronic music. I believe it is officially described as New Wave whatever that is. I also love Dave Gahan too so that always influences my choices...hahaha
5. Daniel - Bat for Lashes. I talked about her and this song in the review I did for her latest album so if you want more look out for it in a previous post. This is a definite highlight of the album but I also think it will become an instant classic for the indie-alternative music scene.

Anyways to your right (on the side panel) you can sample some of these songs and be sure to go buy the song from the Itunes Store or the album they're on because you will not regret it, that is if you're anything like me.

music=love says peace out!

2009 Album Reviews: BAT FOR LASHES - TWO SUNS

I’m trying very hard to like ‘Two Suns, ok it’s not as dire as this but it doesn’t grab me like ‘Fur and Gold’ did. I have been trying to work out what bothers me about this album for days and I think I finally came to the conclusion that both albums sound too much alike. That’s not to say that they sound the same in every way but there are similarities in terms of all being dark pop songs with interesting bass lines and beats behind them. I think this is especially the case for ‘Moon And Moon’ from Two Suns and ‘Sad Eyes’ off Fur and Gold which are both exceptionally beautiful songs but sound like they belong together on an album. They also both mix different styles within the one record and have put an enormous effort into drums and percussion.

Moving on to the songs itself, the greatest part of the album is the first half of the album. ‘Glass’ opens the album with a stunning vocal part at the start that flows into an unexpected rhythm with the tom toms being used to full advantage throughout. ‘Daniel’, for me is the pinnacle of ‘Two Suns’ and I believe it is the first single, so kudos to her and the record company for that choice. I find it to be gem of a pop song that turns out to be an unexpected, yet wonderful love song. The album has a lot of Asian influences in it which is not surprising considering her background and the use of intricate drum parts that give the album the sound it has. I see ‘Sleep Alone’ as one of those songs as I want to tap my foot in time with it whenever I hear it. ‘Moon And Moon’ is a beautiful piano ballad with great overdubbing of her voice to get that electronic voice in the background. The next track I find to be worthwhile of mention is ‘Siren Song’ which has certain epic qualities about it particularly as it builds from a ballad to something completely different. This is much like ‘Glass’ as it threw me initially but I grew to really love it! ‘Pearl’s Dream’ is a very dance and synth-based song that is not completely unique in a pop song but is something special for this album. ‘Two Planets’ mixes a whole lot of sounds and inspirations that make it into an exotic, and almost world music song which then goes into ‘Travelling Woman’ with its folky feel. Although, ‘Travelling Woman’ is a song that would not seem out of place on a number of other female singer/songwriters albums it somehow feels new when she does it. The record closes with ‘The Big Sleep’ which does in fact help make me go to sleep...weird, how that works.

The whole album is a strong release but I think I expected something more. I did enjoy most of it but as I said earlier she is continuing to write dark and melancholy songs which definitely makes for interesting sounds but isn’t looking into the future. Aside from this, I find her so interesting and therefore will continue to support her and would love to see her live show. I will end by saying Bat For Lashes has an exceptional understanding of the space within a song and knows how to draw you into her world so it is definitely worth checking out.

music=love

Single Reviews: U2 - MAGNIFICENT

U2 have released the photo for the front cover of their new single, 'Magnificent'. I just have to say this is a worthy single and really should have been first after hearing the whole album. There is nothing wrong with 'Get On Your Boots' but it just didn't set the vibe for the record. The song is great and shows off U2's ability to write great uplifting songs. Also, the band are filming the video for the tune in Fez so expect something stunningly beautiful. Anyways, enough of my ranting...here it is
Loz

2009 Concert Reviews: V Festival Melbourne - RAZORLIGHT

I'm back with Razorlight's set. I got a bit distracted with a few other things so I couldn't get it up right away. I have to say they are an awesome band and I was really into them about 5 yrs. ago but I got distracted with a number of other Brit bands e.g. the Kaisers who I honestly thought were better.

However, seeing them now reminded me why I liked them in the first place. I was a big fan of 'Up All Night' and 'America' from the second album but that was really it. I don't know any of the songs from their latest 'Slipway Fires' which was released at the end of 2008 but luckily they played a lot of their older stuff which got the most cheers anyways. I went nuts like a real fan girl when they played 'Golden Touch' and 'Up All Night'...it made me very happy. Johnny Borrell is an excellent front man...heaps of charisma and just the good ole' dirty rock and roll attitude. The rest of the band were in top form so Johhny could do his thing but I do think a lot of their sounds similar and that is maybe why I haven't been so interested in what they were up to. But I do reccommend that you see them live as they certainly deliver on stage. Should I get the new record? Can anyone tell me if it is worth getting?

Overall, totallly worth seeing but I guess I would have said the same thing if I had been to the Kills instead who I'm sad I missed but I did not want to give up our second row spots. Well photos below... KAISER CHIEFS NEXT!!!!!!!
Photos © 2009 music=love

2009 Concert Reviews: V Festival Melbourne - DUFFY

The Melbourne leg of the V Festival was last Saturday and boy, did my bro. and I enjoy it. This festival is way underrated in Oz as it seems to be more laid back than say the Big Day Out. It obviously does not have as many bands as many other festivals do but if the quality is there, like it was this year than I don't care. Remember quality over quantity. I got to see 3 great bands in a row in a great position. V is for over 18's only which seems to attract less (not all) dick heads who are there to ruin other people's good time rather than just chill and enjoy some good music.

We got there fairly early as I wanted to go see Duffy. I must say she was very good. I love her record but I didn't know how she would sing it live because the sound the album has a lot to do with the way it was produced. She had an amazing backing band and these two twin back up dancers that had the same hair, makeup and outfit which just added to the 60s throwback. I was very impressed and wouldn't mind seeing her solo show with just her fans. She didn't get as large a crowd as she probably would have gotten in Europe but I think she enjoyed herself. By the way, the crowd up front was full of diehard fans which is not unusual in the festival setting, but I think she managed to convert some of those punters that were either casual fans or strolling by. Piccies below...

Photos © 2009 music=love

After Duffy we had a 2 hr. break so we caught a bit of Elbow from the stands and it was good. I haven't really heard anything from them except for their brilliant cover of U2's 'Running to Stand Still'. We left early to go to check out Jenny Lewis who was playing on the same stage as the 'Big 3' (Razorlight, Kaiser Chiefs and the Killers) and this was the perfect opportunity to get a good spot near the front, and we did, and this remained our spot for all 3 bands' sets. She was actually really good and it didn't feel like we were just buying time until Razorlight took the stage. She held her own even though many people, including us did not know who she was. I must get her album as she has this country and folk sound but still very contemporary which I like.

Anyways, I will update each act in separate posts with pictures so look out for RAZORLIGHT next!!

Loz

2009 Album Releases: GREEN DAY - 21st CENTURY BREAKDOWN

Are you all excited about Green Day's new album? It's officially set for release on May 15th 2009. Well get excited because it's countdown time as their first single 'Know Your Enemy' will be released mid-April. Here is the cover for the single..pretty nifty.

Also, you can catch the latest news from the widget below but most importantly you can get a taste of 'Know Your Enemy'. Ok, the snippet of the song suggests their sound will remain similar to that of the 'American Idiot' record. Though, I hope the record does offer a few surprises.

By the way had a awesome time at the V Festival and was second row from the front for Razorlight, Kaiser Chiefs and the Killers.....woooohooo!!!! Will review in full later.

Simon and Garfunkel Live Down Under

All you Aussie and NZ Simon and Garfunkel fans the legendary duo are coming for 8 concerts here in the land of Vegemite and the land of sheep. They have not been down under since 1983ish so it will be nice to see them at home and probably for the last time as I doubt they will be doing another world tour after this.

It starts in Auckland on June 13th 2009 and most importantly two shows at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena June 25 & 26 2009. It should be amazing and hopefully they play loads of classics. I am very, very tempted to go to this and I know my parents would be very interested...decisions. Well, tix go on sale on April 17th and hopefully they will be recession proof like U2 but I doubt it since the band don't tour that often.

2009 Album Releases: YEAH YEAH YEAHS - IT'S BLITZ!

I spoke about the release of Yeah, Yeah Yeahs It's Blitz! but I didn't have an album cover or tracklisting, well now I do so here ya go! I actually really like the artwork and am loving the newish sound and the single Zero, it is my most played track on my ipod.

1. Zero

2. Heads Will Roll

3. Soft Shock

4. Skeltons

5. Dull Life

6. Shame and Fortune

7. Runaway

8. Dragon Queen

9. Hysteric

10. Little Shadow

Edit: I just want to let you know I think this is one of the best albums of the year!!!!!!! I LOVE KAREN O!!!

V Festival 2009

Yo, I am heading off to the V Festival this Sat and am super excitied...yay for me and boo for you...nah, just kidding. I will review the sets of the bands I actually see. In case you didn't know the line up it is as follows...

The Killers
Duffy
Razorlight
Madness
The Human League
The Kills
Kaiser Chiefs
Elbow
Snow Patrol
..and many others...

I will probably be missing the Kills who I really want to see but my bro who will be with me wants to see Razorlight...ohhh...the decisions! This is the problem with festivals there will always be some band you will miss. I probably will miss Human League too as I want to be front and center for The Killers. Anyways, watch this space as I'll post piccies and video (if you are lucky)!

Currently listening to...

This week I have a pretty eclectic mixtape which ultimately make the best mixtapes.

1. Untitled - Interpol. This is a great tune and fast being a classic in terms of the dark indie voice that shines through here and all their work. Paul Banks I believe started it and other bands just followed on from there. I love their work and will see them live eventually.
2. Gone - U2. I honestly did not like this song for a long time but Pop is my 2nd fave U2 album ever. It works so well next to 'Last Night on Earth. What an amazing song and I hope it make a return to their setlist this world tour.
3. Tower of Song - Leonard Cohen. There is really not much to say about this...he's a poetic genius.
4. To Lose My Life - White Lies. These guys are awesome and are worthy of the hype that surrounds them at the moment. Definitely one of my albums of the year.
5. Common People - Pulp. If you haven't discovered Pulp...where have you been?...ok, I have to admit I have only been a true fan since last yr. I had heard of them before but didn't take much notice but someone said you must take some time to truly explore their work and I did and was blown away.

So check out what I suggested and if you have any comments please, please, please do!!!

P.S. You can hear the songs on the sidebar under weekly tunes...