Category Archives: Random Musings

April 5, 2013

40 Songs of Lila Lyric

By Lila Lyric

When hitting a milestone like 40-years-old it can either consume you with thoughts of getting old or it is just another day in your life. I am Team ’73 and this is our year. I won’t say that I’m consumed with the fact that I’m turning the big 4-0, but I’m also not letting it be just.another.day. I want to recognize the years I’ve lived through and what better way to do it than with music!
These are songs that shaped me, songs that had impact on my 40 years of life. They are certainly not my favourite songs and some I even despise *cough*manilow*cough*, but when researching songs released in each year I chose the one that jumped out at me. I went through the songs from each year when I was younger and selected songs that I may not remember in that year, but perhaps later discovered. They were songs my parents were listening to on 8-track in the big gold Thunderbird, they were on the turntable in the basement rec room, they were songs my mother would play on the piano and sing horribly out of tune too.

So here they are in chronological order. Enjoy my 40 songs in all shades

1973 – Elton John “Crocodile Rock” – this song was on a children’s LP that I had later in years and I adored this and would constant play this over and over again.

1974 – Barbara Striesand “The Way We Were” – one of few songs I learned on the piano, because my mother made me!
1975 – Glen Campbell “Rhinestone Cowboy” – I blame all country songs that I know on my grandfather! He was not a glittery cowboy but I think he influenced my mother who then in turn influenced me.

1976 – Barry Manilow “I Write The Songs” – pure torture. I hate this song, but I had to hear it when all I wanted to listen to was Sesame Street Fever. My mother was evil ;)
1977 – Rod Stewart “Tonight’s the Night” – Rod was a staple growing up. I still like his raspy voice.
1978 – The Bee Gees “How Deep is Your Love” – the be all end all of music according to my father. Ask me anything Bee Gees related. Barry Gibb to my father is Ryan Star to me. Nuff said.
1979 – Billy Joel “My Life” – lip sync duo with Kevin, my older brother from a K-Tel album that had this song …it was the first song on the second side of the LP…..the album cover was green. I’m such a visual person!
1980 - Queen “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” – I wanted to put ‘Another Bites the Dust’ but that would be the Queen song for my brother’s list. This isn’t my favourite Queen song but I do like it’s groove.

1981 – Rick Springfield “Jessie’s Girl” – Yep. I was born at the perfect time to be one of those Rick Springfield lovers. I thought he was soooo cute, but I was more drawn to Bull Terrier on the cover of the ‘Working Class Dog’ LP.
1982 – Olivia Newton-John “Physical” – so many to choose from this year, but I had the headband, my mother refused to buy me the leotard. Smart woman.

1983 – Musical Youth “Pass the Dutchie” – don’t judge me….81, 82 and 83 were me discovering music on my own with no parental or brotherly influence. Honestly though, I think this was the beginnings of my diversity in music. Such a rap/reggae influence right? ;)

1984 – Van Halen “Jump” – the beginning of the metal years, thanks to my bro. We were just like every other kid jumping from the couch to couch playing this song, swinging out arms playing air guitar.
1985 – Metallica “Fade to Black” – I’m still not over Cliff Burton and still angry that Jason Newstead left the band. Love the bass players, no longer care about the rest of the band!
1986 – Run DMC “Walk this Way” – I was deep in Metallica at this point but intrigued and fascinated by rap, and when Aerosmith did this song with Run DMC it took my breath away.

1987 - Beastie Boys “Fight for your Right to Party” – nuff’ said.
1988 – Leonard Cohen “First we Take Manhattan” – I remember watching the video for this song on Much Music. I wasn’t sure I like the song at that age, wasn’t sure what is was, who he was, but I remember it vividly and came back to it years later.

1989 – The Cure “Pictures of You” – The Cure hold a special place in my heart. My first concert – CNE Grandstand – 8th row center – I could see Robert Smith’s sweat drip from his brow.
1990 – Jane’s Addiction “Three Days” – The 90’s were a great era for Team ‘73ers. A time of self-discovery. Perry Farrell had much much influence over me. Ritual De Lo Habitual is still part of me.

1991 – REM “Losing My Religion” – Again, the age of video. I can visualize this entire video in my head. The song is still great. I am not a fan of REM post Out-Of-Time though. Automatic For the People did so well and people love it, but it bores me.

1992 – Pearl Jam “Jeremy” – Eddie Vedder what a man, what a man, what a mighty fine man. He booted me in the head once – he was crowd surfing and Steph (another Team ’73) and I bounced around the mosh pit.
1993 – The The “Love is Stronger than Death” – god I love this song. If you haven’t heard it go listen. Hell listen to the entire Dusk album.
1994 – Tori Amos “Cornflake Girl” – Girl Power.
1995 – Radiohead “Fake Plastic Trees” – oh Thom thanks for coming out. Thanks for being a staple in my life for 20 years.

1996 – The Wallflowers “One Headlight” – this is likely not the best song Jakob Dylan has ever recorded, but I still throw this one on my running playlist. It still has a hold on me.

1997 – Hanson “mmmmBop” – i put this in to see if you are still reading….actually it’s Radiohead’s “Paranoid Android” but I didn’t want to repeat a band ;)
1998 – Matthew Good Band “Apparitions” – this is my CRTC Canadian Content. No, I do love Matt Good and thankfully he continues to put out great music!
1999 – Moby “Natural Blues” – how can you not crank this tune and drive fast?
2000 – Coldplay “Yellow” – I’ve always had a thing for Brit Pop. Coldplay are like U2, they are consistent and well loved by the masses. This song reminds me of the favourite yellow t-shirt I once had.
2001- Nickelback “This is how you remind me” – this is only here for the pure fact that it showed that 2001 and was a terrible year in the history of music. Ick.
2002 – Damien Rice “Cannonball” – and we recover with Mr. Rice. “O” is a fantastic album, and it needs to be listened to from beginning to end.
2003 – The White Stripes “Seven Nation Army” – this is where I begin my love affair with a weirdo.
2004 – The Killers “Mr. Brightside” – I don’t care what you say this is the best running song ever.

2005 – Imogen Heap “Hide & Seek” – Oh the song from The OC (as show I never watched). I love Imogen and her weird hats. Especially love her collaborations with Jeff Beck.
2006 – Ryan Star “Back of Your Car” – and so it begins. Rockstar Supernova airs and I fell hard. I know that BOYC isn’t a 2006 song, but it is for me. I don’t think it was Ryan’s first original I had heard, I looked him up previously to him rockin’ it out on the show – but I chose it here because I love every form of this song I have heard. I adore Ryan acoustic, on the piano and being all mellow – but I love love love when he gets all nasty and rocks it out.
2007 – Radiohead “Reckoner” – Radiohead swooped in and stole my soul in 2007 with this song, this album.
2008 - Portishead “Magic Doors” – brilliance comes around again! I chose this song because the beeping at the beginning. Every time it came on in my car I thought my car was alerting me to something wrong. Every.Time.
2009 - Florence + The Machine “Rabbit Heart” – Lungs is a great album and this song is my favourite. The lyrics are fabulous.
2010 – Ryan Star “Breathe” – A worthy repeat of an artist wouldn’t you say? 11:59 was released in this year and I may have listened to it a wee bit.

2011 – Bon Iver “Flume” – I know Bon Iver puts people to sleep. I was being put to sleep from early on in the release of this album. I also adore Peter Gabriel’s cover.
2012 – Jack White “Love Interruption” – This song makes me appreciate a different sound out of Jack, also makes me want to have love bite me, and slam my fingers in a doorway. Kinky.

2013 – Yeah Yeah Yeahs “Sacrilege” – can’t get enough of this song so far this year and anticipate the album release later this month!!! Woohoo new music!

There were so many songs I could have chosen, so many that had impact in certain years and then there were years where pickings were slim! So odd. There are artists that didn’t even make the list, like Peter Gabriel, Nirvana, Sonic Youth, Love and Rockets, Iron Maiden to name few. I wouldn’t call this my Top 40 songs, as there are many songs that were made pre-1973 that I adore, and there are likely many songs released in one year that would fill spots.

So as I prepare to turn 40 in 2 days….I do hope to remain young at heart in my music tastes. Is that possible or am I delusional?

Cheers,
Lila

7 comments   |  tags: , , , , , , , | posted in Birthday Blog, Random Musings

February 14, 2013

C’est Cheese!

By Betty Beat

This?  Is a  A Fabulous Fondue of Valentine’s Day Goodness!

Love songs.  You know, the songs you don’t admit to anyone that you know every single lyric to.  The ones you listened to in your cheesiest moments.  Many heard at a high school dance.  Like Zeppelin’s “Stairway”, the songs you danced with your crush to, trying to cop some kind of feel, swaying and being mushy in adolescent  Hollywood romanticized love.

For all my musical snobbery, it amazes me that I was able to collaborate such a list of cheesy goodness.  That once the creative juices started to collectively flow, how many songs – most of them nostalgic in nature – came forward for consideration.  Much gratitude to those that entertained me with their singing of songs and mad research skillz (ahem.. Steel Man…), their like-mindedness in cheese choice (ahem.. Bros…) and their penchant for recruitment from the ones around them (ahem.. Faubert…).  A completely stellar list. Thank you, as always, for the inspiration and aid.

And yes, I know all the words.  Sad.  But true.

This is how we cheese it up for all you gooey gobsters out there.  Sing along.  Just don’t admit that you did it.

A Veritable Vestibule of Valentine’s Vocalization: Top 10 Songs To Guarantee a Cheese-eriffic Valentine’s Day

#10: Wicked Game – Chris Isaak

A song entirely made up of baritone moaning.  90210 made it memorable.  Who didn’t want to be Helena Christensen frolicking in the surf (or to have her frolicking with them)?  How many people made out on the beach to this song in the mid-90s?

#9: My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion

A shipwreck of a love song.  Oh, yes.  I just said that.  Chest-pounding Celine and some thoroughly cheese-y goo.  It doesn’t get any better.

#8:  I Would Do Anything – Meatloaf

Beauty and.. the Beast?  A classic video that I grudgingly admit I watched religiously while singing along.

#7:  Take My Breath Away – Berlin

Before Tom Cruise lost his mind (and his marriage.. thank you Celeb Gossip…), he was pretty dreamy.  To my pre-teen self.  The original goo.

#6: (Everything I Do) I Do it For You – Bryan Adams

Robin Hood.  Merry Men.  And a song that everyone danced to at a school dance.  Sway along, people.

#5: Love you Like a Love Song – Selena Gomez

It occurred to us that we had a ton of songs from our nostalgic pasts.  Nothing truly new (since I assume we’ve evolved in our taste for cheese to not include overt-lyrical mush).  This is our nod to how the love song has evolved.  It’s a bit pathetic, really.  A ballad for this generation? I’ve mocked this song before, so I won’t ask the obvious question (how does one love like a love song? The answer isn’t all that complimentary…)

#4:  More Than Words – Extreme

The one song we can all sing verbatim without any music in the background.  Who didn’t want to grow their hair and pick up a guitar?

#3: Never Tear Us Apart – INXS

It has been pointed out, multiple times, that when anyone searches for an “us” song, the choice by the masses seems to be this song.  It’s on everyone’s list.  Making it a top contender for the ultimate in cheese.

#2: I Just Called (To Say I Love You) – Stevie Wonder

Who doesn’t love this song?  You don’t have to admit it, we know.  Classic Stevie.

#1: Careless Whisper – WHAM!

There was some debate about whether this was a George Michael song, or a Wham! song.  I’m giving it to Wham! Mostly because it occurred to me that Wham! was the original punctuation-band.  Now I get you Fun-Dot.  Clever boys.  Do you think the sax is what makes the song?  Sax is quite close to the word “sex”.. subliminal message or conspiracy theory about why so many cheesy love songs feature saxes?

Although, this video was provided as an example.. which mocks the hell out of the cheese.  Extremely well played!  I was impressed.  As I so often am when musical meanderings surprise me.  ”He doesn’t like George Michael!!! Boo!!”

Of course, while discussing the overt gooey-ness featured above, talks turned to the quote-unquote love songs (insert air quoting here) that you don’t really hate.  The Cure’s Love Song and even Tori Amos’ cover of it.  U2′s “One” (my favourite… this led to talk of White Whales and waiting for a Steel Man and Ice Man to guest blog – a coming attraction that I’ll merely sidenote here for increased interest).  Our Honourable Mentions today go to two “love” songs that we don’t think suck.  Watch these tomorrow when you haven’t had your eyeballs burned out with the vibrant colours of red and pink; you are not reveling in singleton sadness (if you’re the single sort); you are not missing someone or wallowing in the winter of your discontent.  Or even after today when you will not be inevitably mocking the commercial nature of a holiday invented by Hallmark (Google challenge – was it?!).  Might I suggest watching these next two videos with a heaping side dish of discount chocolate (again proving that Feb. 15 is actually a great celebration day – half price chocolate!!) and singing along proudly.

U2 – All I Want

Annie Lennox – Love Song for a Vampire

Happy Heart Day dear readers.  We think you’re pretty awesome Valentines.  (How was that for cheese?!) As always, we want to hear your thoughts!  What cheese are you listening to today?

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February 7, 2013

Penny for your Thoughts?

By Betty Beat

As it happens, we have a lot of time at work.  Time to talk of everything and nothing.  And time to make most of it relate to music.  When discussions at the beginning of the week turned to the demise of the penny, naturally, thoughts turned to idioms and songs that could provide tribute to the little copper coin that was going to leave our lives.

Think of the penny like an old band.  Past its prime, no longer seemingly useful and prepared to die a slow and, at times, annoyingly painful death as it makes its way down the road of obscurity.  You have some good memories of it, but on a day-to-day basis, it is just not providing any value.

Or so it seems.

However, let us take a moment to honour the penny and consider how removing it from our lives actually may have a lasting impact. This is where the questions began.  (And this is where I point out the irony of a Steel Man discussing the demise of a copper coin and I could make a Metal joke here, but, really, I’m on afternoon shift and I’ve not yet consumed enough coffee to make the joke as hilarious as it could be.. )

Allow me an indulgent moment to pose exactly how the disappearance of the penny will inevitably affect our lives.  For about a week.

Best question asked:  What will become of the penny loafer?  I suppose we could call them “Dimebag Dawdlers”.  However, that immediately makes me think of Dimebag Darrell (Pantera guitarist that was assassinated by a fan upset at the rumour of Pantera’s impending breakup.. true story…).  So, goodbye Penny Loafer.  An entire generation of preppy hipster dressers (who I’m certain only dress “preppy” as an ironic nod of the head to their prep-school leanings) will have to go without the addition of a penny to their tasseled tootsies.

I suppose no longer will bad pennies turn up.  Because it seems they always did.  What will happen to these “bad pennies”? Conversely, those deemed a “pretty penny” will likely be stuck in the same circle of hell as the bad ones; where they will likely spend eternity finding other pennies, picking them up and never finding the good luck claimed they would inevitably find.  It is very sad to realize that those of us walking around won’t stoop down to pick up that one little lucky penny in the hopes that our fates will be transformed.

And since penny candy hasn’t been around in decades and I’ve completely dated myself talking of it, we are just going to pretend that buying little brown bags filled with sugary goodness was something someone once read in a book or saw in a movie.  Move along.  I’m not that old.

And what will the penny pinchers in life pinch now?  Dimes and nickles seem in direct contrast to the spirit of being a “penny pincher”.  I imagine that those cheap enough to pinch a pretty penny will have to give up their stingy natures.

Oh, wait.  This is about music.

You wouldn’t think that the penny would have shown up in many songs over the years, aside from the obvious choices (which are indeed included in the list below).  It was an innocuous little coin, it seems.  But the references are there and we took the time to find them.  And thus became the Top 10 Penny Tribute Songs.

#10:  Hot in Herre – Jenny Owen Youngs

Okay, I know I’m starting out a list that doesn’t really include the word “Penny” in the title.  Bear with me.  It’s a 50 Cent cover done beautifully and one of my all-time favourite cover songs.  Get it? 50 Cent.  Fine.  A stretch at best, but it’s a damn good song.

#9:  Coin in the Pocket – Joni Mitchell

It’s not really a song, but rather what I would call a bridge between songs.  A preamble.  And it’s Joni Mitchell, so regardless of relevance or the fact that it’s not really a song, it is great.

#8: A Bad Penny – Cat Stevens

1974. Cat Stevens.  A fool and a train.  Classic.

#7:  Penny Sparkle – Blonde Redhead

From their last studio album (2010) of the same name.  An excellent tribute to Penny.

#6: Pretty Penny – Stone Temple Pilots

A favourite from STP. Sing along.

#5: Pennyroyal Tea – Nirvana

You all know my Grunge leanings.  That this was included is hardly a surprise.

#4: Pennies from Heaven – Billie Holliday

There are two songs that automatically had to be included in the list.  Songs that have been covered more times than I care to even Wikipedia.  Forgive the predictability.

Although, be surprised at my inclusion of Christopher Walken cover…. oh, yes.  I did.  Best thing I’ve watched today:

#3: Penny Lane – The Beatles

Thoughts of classic Beatles tunes, the movie Almost Famous and my hunt for a great cover of this obvious choice. I still like Bowie’s version: 

#2: 10 Cent Pistol – Black Keys

I know it is 10 times more than a penny.  But it is 10 times more great as a song.  (oh, that was cheese….)

#1: Dollars & Cents – Radiohead

For Pete – a Radiohead number one choice.

Honourable Mention:  Anything by Pennywise.

Of course, to choose their song “Fuck Authority” is my way of encouraging all of you to collect your pennies and find some use for them.

Did you know that you can use a penny instead of a screwdriver (no, don’t add it to your vodka and OJ…)?  Ever thought of giving someone money owed entirely in pennies?  The currency act states that no one is obligated to accept more than 25 pennies as payment.  Ha! So there Kramer. 

Still, I believe we should continue to offer a penny for someone’s thoughts.  Because, honestly, there are some thoughts roaming around out there that aren’t worth rounding up to a nickel.

(Side note – can we do away with the nickel next? I’m thinking the obliteration of Nickelback would be a good place to start…)

Adieu Little Penny.

p.s. Much gratitude, as always, to a Steel Man for the idea and collaboration.  Another great inclusion.

2 comments   |  tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , | posted in Random Musings

December 24, 2012

Fairytales and Punks – A Beat & Lyric Christmas Carol

By Betty Beat

 Fairytale of New York has been my absolute favourite Christmas song for years. Forget the Mariahs and the Michael Bubles. This is the Christmas music I want to listen to. Toss in some classic Elvis (as a nod to my Mom) and some old-school Alabama (nod to my Dad) and this is the music that I’ll admit to listening to, and singing along to. This is also the Christmas music that, when shared, increases in its wonderment and enjoyment.

Although, it came to my attention last Christmas that not everyone knows this song. And while it isn’t “technically” a Christmas carol, it is the song I will have on repeat over the next couple of days.

Some notes about the song:

  • The female vocals were to be sung by bassist Cait O’Riordan, but she left the band in ’86. Kirsty MacColl’s then-husband was producing the Pogues and asked MacColl to step in as a vocal guide. The Pogues liked her contribution so much that they asked her to sing along officially.
  • The song still kicks ass. 25 years after its initial release. Fairytale has re-entered the Top 75 every December since 2005. It has made the Top 20 on nine separate occasions and the Top 10 on four separate occasions. Its 10 visits to the chart now total 57 weeks on the official UK Top 75 making it the joint 16th most charted song of all time.
  • Kristy MacColl’s death is an interesting one with many unanswered questions. Although, her heroic actions undertaken (she pushed her son out of the way of the boat that killed her) are something to be in awe of. Her death was controversial until a few years ago when the campaign to answer the unanswered questions was ceased.

If you haven’t heard it (and I’m shocked), give it a listen and enjoy. For the rest of you old punks, have the happiest of Christmases! Enjoy good food, good drinks, good company and may it all be spent with the accompaniment of stellar music.

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October 20, 2012

Old and New… (Saturday musical movie watch)

By Betty Beat

Once in awhile on Saturday nights, I tuck the little Beats into bed, drop on to the couch and turn on a movie.  My time to just sit and watch a screen is so far and few between that I rather enjoy finding “themes” to my movie nights.  Music almost always plays some part of this. Best soundtrack movie night (Pulp Fiction, Natural Born Killers, The Crow), best movie rendition of a stage musical (Hairspray – the original, Chicago, Rent), best 90s music-inspired movies (Reality Bites, Singles).

Sometimes these nights have no theme at all, but rather just end up being movies I end up wanting to see.

Tonight was a bit of old school mixed with an all-time favourite “rockumentary”.  I thought I would share.

OLD SCHOOL

House Party (circa 1990): 

Who didn’t love Kid N’ Play?  Much thanks to Bros for the inspiration with his kickass Kid N’ Play vintage tee.  I haven’t watched this movie in years.  Just as fluffy and cheesy and funny as it was when I was 13.  Actually, the references weren’t quite as lost on me this time ’round.

Want to know what they’re up to 20 years later?  They did this interview a couple of years ago:  http://www.bvonmovies.com/2010/04/20/celebrating-house-party-20-years-later-with-kid-n-play/

DAYS OF THE NEW

Back and Forth (Foo Fighters, circa 2011)

It’s not totally new, but it has been a classic in the world of Betty Beat since watching it last year.  I love this documentary.  It is everything about why I love Foos.  Shout out to the incredibly smart person who first recommended this movie (and who watched “with” me).

Just a small share on a Saturday night.  If you haven’t watched either movie, go and spend a few hours vegging out, lounged on a couch. Even better, hit us up with some of your favourite music-inspired movies.  Perhaps a Top 10 list in the making?  Let us hear it.

1 comment   |  tags: , , , , , , , | posted in Random Musings

October 6, 2012

Jack White: Brought to you by the Letter “E”

By Lila Lyric

An Eternally Enigmatic Entity, that is Jack White.  Clearly this review is brought to you by the letter E.  It is also brought to you by the number 22 as that is the number of songs that Jack played with the Los Buzzardos on Thursday, October 4th at the Sony Centre in Toronto (set list below).  This was show number 2, the male band night after likely an Epic first show the night before with The Peacocks – the female band.  I only had the pleasure of attending night 2.

There was still a cloud lingering from the much talked about Radio City Music Hall show in New York City a few nights previously.  Jack decided that a 45 minute set was enough on night one.  I wasn’t letting that cloud my judgement of the show I was attending.  I was there to Enjoy.  Jack Effervescently Emitted his Essence, his heart and soul, Evocatively strutting the stage Endearing himself, his Energy to those previously Enlightened fans and those just Experiencing it for the first time.  Engaged, that was me and my sisterly concert comrades.

 

Ok, I’m done with the E thing.  That was fun for two paragraphs.  Honestly I was slightly worried that Jack wouldn’t give us the full set – I didn’t want to be punished.  Ok, that’s a lie, I would like to be punished by Mr. White just don’t tell Mr. Lyric……who am I kidding, he knows!  I was so close, I could smell Jack, luckily Eau de Rockstar is a scent I enjoy.  When I say the audience was engaged, that me and my comrades were engaged it wasn’t just so I could use an e-word, it was the truth.  Perhaps that NYC Night #1 lacked that connection?  Jack is a hard read, I’m sure he likes it that way, he may work hard at it or it may come naturally to him, he is for sure good at it.  Even being able to see his facial expressions up close and personal it was hard to read him…..until one point in the show.  The crowd (or at least the pit) was bopping up and down, every person surrounding me was enthralled (I can’t help myself with the E thing now) and Jack glanced left, glanced right, then glanced down in the general vicinity of Ms. Lila Lyric and friends and the stoic look we typically see turned to silly grin and then big smile.  I’d like to think that us getting our groove on front and center brought the Guy Smilie out in JW. We were likely but a small factor in a completely A+ crowd that Jack seemingly enjoyed playing to that second night in Toronto.

 

This show for me is tops. I’m still contemplating where it sits, definately Top 5, likely in the number 2 spot.  When a show hits you like a sucker punch you have to give it top billing.  I’m sure my location, my proximity to main attraction and the energy of the band, being able to watch the guitar playing by Jack, see how eloquently but with mass intensity as his fingers stroked the keys of the piano.  The visual experience when that close is always a pleasure with fabulous musicians, and it sure helps when the music emanating from the stage equals in intensity.
To say I enjoyed the show is an understatement. I snapped a picture or two (shown here) discreetly with no flash and no stealing of Jack White’s soul.  I bid you farewell as I still relish in the moment of experience the Jack White Phenomenon.
~Lila

 

Set List Sony Centre, Toronto Ontario Thursday October 4, 2012 
1. Missing Pieces
2. Sixteen Saltines
3. Cannon/Wasting My Time (The White Stripes song)
4. Freedom At 21
5. Love Interruption
6. Blunderbuss
7. Top Yourself (The Raconteurs song)
8. I Cut Like A Buffalo (The Dead Weather song)
9. I Guess I Should Go to Sleep
10. The Same Boy You’ve Always Known (The White Stripes song)
11. Blue Blood Blues (The Dead Weather song)
12. Steady, As She Goes (The Raconteurs song)
13. Two Against One (Danger Mouse cover)
14. We’re Going to Be Friends (The White Stripes song)
15. Weep Themselves to Sleep
16. Broken Boy Soldier tease >
17. Hello Operator (The White Stripes song)
18. Ball and Biscuit (The White Stripes song)
Encore:
19. The Hardest Button to Button (The White Stripes song)
20. Take Me With You When You Go
21. Catch Hell Blues (The White Stripes song)
22. Seven Nation Army (The White Stripes song)

7 comments   |  tags: , , , , | posted in Concert Reviews, Random Musings

September 8, 2012

New Music in the ‘hood: The Neighbourhood

By Betty Beat

The other night, I was hanging out with the Little Beats (who both started school this week, a Top 10 list for later on – Back to School Music: Songs to Learn By) when I was alerted to a radio discussion of new music.  Because dinner was being prepped and I was being all domesticated, I had missed the gist of what was said.  Luckily, I have extremely reliable and clever musical friends who share my penchant for new sounds and they filled me in (kudos to those that deserve it.. thank you… that is two in a row.. I’m officially impressed).

You all know how I love new tunes.  Intense moments of Googling followed.  Who were these mysterious new crooners?  All I had was a name:  The Neighbourhood.

I caught the discussion of the song “Sweater Weather” and investigated further to find “Female Robbery”.  I was on a mission. But I couldn’t find more.

What?  Nary a Wiki page, a bio, a wordy website?  Who are these guys?!

This is what I found:

Sweater Weather

Female Robbery

My thoughts?  They intrigue me.  The music is good. Crooning with a smattering of R&B.  It’s light, but not. It’s kind of indie-folk-rock-hop.  It’s a mesh of bits of everything, but it’s not overkill and insipid.  I called them a bit Arctic Monkeys mixed with Foster the People mixed with The Weeknd (but peppier).  If I was going to label them.

Points of Interest:

- Note the spelling of their name.  Perhaps why no one in the US has really stood up to notice.  Perhaps why they released initially in the UK, as opposed to the US (this is where I make the declarative statement that the UK is far more hip than the US in terms of new music).

- All that is really known about the band is that they are based out of LA, released two singles in the UK (with much love for both).  The lead singer is a former child actor named Jesse James Rutherford (go IMDB him..).  They’ve only released an EP, entitled “I’m Sorry” and people are intrigued because..well, that’s all we know about them.  Is this music marketing smarts (building buzz by not saying anything), or are these guys just really low-key and not attention whores?  Whichever the motivation, it is serving to make people focus on the music which is, well, really good.  It’s clever, and I like clever.  I’m holding out hope they keep it up.

- I shared with another pal of mine – the ever-picky Bros.  He is withholding his verdict, although I am pointing out that the band has been likened to The Weeknd, and I’ll point out that he said that The Weeknd was a band that his snobby side accepted DESPITE their commercial success.  Could this be another?  Time will tell.

- The videos are stellar.  In fact, they are part of what I immediately was attracted to with the music.   They are visually stunning.  Music for the eyes and ears, it seems.

- I prefer Female Robbery over Sweater Weather.  What about you guys?

So there you have it.  New music for a Saturday night.  My prediction:  They’ll live up to the hype.  Expect to hear more from them in mainstream media once the snow flies.

Go Like The Neighbourhood: http://www.facebook.com/TheNeighbourhood

Go Follow The Neighbourhood: http://twitter.com/thenbhd

Check out their site (p.s. Love the branding! I want a black t-shirt!) and get the EP: http://www.thenbhd.com/

Happy Listening!

3 comments   |  tags: , , , , , , , | posted in New Music, Random Musings

August 12, 2012

Agnes’ Birthday Wishes

By Betty Beat

 

Agnes Worthy (nee Armour) was born August 4, 1922. Her history states that she attended the London Teacher’s College, worked as a Federal civil servant and from 1942-45 was a radio operator under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. She has participated in the London Fanshawe Symphony Chorus, the Federal Superannuates National Association (FSNA) and the Women’s Intitute. She has travelled extensively, is an incredibly strong, smart and sassy woman and, having just turned 90, I have to say is pretty awesome.

 

She is my Great Aunt. Great-Great Aunt to my Little Beats. That’s a whole lotta “great”. Deservedly so.

 

Generally speaking we cover modern music and new finds here at Beat & Lyric. However, today was about celebrating the 90 years my Auntie Agnes has lived with so much vigor and vitality. Plus, I tend to believe that it is highly impressive that I have a Great Aunt (actually, I have two of them – shout out to my Aunt Grace as well) who comes to hang out for lunch, enjoy amazing food and memories while sipping a vodka tonic and laughing. 90 looks pretty good.

 

So, today, a Top 10 list in honour of my Dear Aunt Agnes (kudos to those that gets the TVO reference there). 10 of the best songs from the last 90 years that I hope she likes as a dedication for her birthday. Happy Birthday Auntie Agnes! So much love and hugs!

 

1920s

 

West End Blues – Louis Armstrong (1928)

 

 

(Side note – what is it with trumpets? Love this sound)

 

 1930s

 

It’s a Sin to Tell a Lie – Fats Waller (1936)

1940s

 

 

God Bless the Child – Billie Holiday (1941)

 

 

 

1950s

 

 

All Shook Up – Elvis Presley (1957)

 

 

 

1960s

 

 

My Way – Frank Sinatra (1969)

 

 

 

1970s

 

 

You’re So Vain – Carly Simon (1972)

 

 

 

1980s

 

 

Bad Reputation – Joan Jett (1981)

 

 

 

1990s

Winter – Tori Amos (1992)

 

 

2000s

Who Will Comfort Me – Melody Gardot (2008)

 

 

2010s

 

 

Blunderbuss – Jack White (2012)

 

 

1 comment   |  tags: , , , , , , , , , , | posted in Random Musings

August 7, 2012

Florence and the Machine – Toronto

By Lila Lyric

It’s been a BUSY summer here in Lyricland and I know that Beatville has been boistering with activity too. We apologize for the lack of activity here on the blog. This month though is dedicate to the colour RED as we started out with a long night in Toronto being seranaded by an english red-head.
Florence + The Machine hit Toronto last week. You would think that this being one of the last shows on her North American Tour that we get a less than energetic Flo, but she did not disappoint! The energy and the vibe was brilliant! Florence took her machine and headed next to the Osheaga Festival in Montreal and then on to Chicago to Lollapallooza. They certainly have stamina.

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I enjoyed the show and I know my peeps in attendance – The Beatser included – enjoyed the show. I will say that it’s hard to thoroughly enjoy and immerse yourself in the music at a stadium show. It’s not typically a show I will attend, but I’m am glad I did. Florence is absolutely a phenomenal live singer, I could have just closed my eyes and listened to her sing, she was that good. I would have loved to see her in a small venue, but that just wasn’t in the cards.

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The openers, The Walkmen a band based out of New York City opened the show. We caught 3/4 of their set and enjoyed it, I will look them up and perhaps blog about them at a later date. What I remember is the lead singer wearing a full suit….I was melting in the stands that poor boy had to be soaked in sweat from head to toe, he also looked like a young Dennis Quaid, from what I could see on the screens.

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Here is a token bad picture from my iphone way back in section 302….

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And here is the setlist – shout out to Sophie for her help on this!

Florence + The Machine – Molson Amphitheatre – Toronto Ontario August 2, 2012

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Set List:

Only if for a Night

What the water Gave Me

Cosmic Love

Rabbit Heart (Raise it up)

Say My Name

Breaking Down

Heartlines

Leave My Body

Seven Devils

Shake it Out

Dog Days Are Over

Encore -

Never Let Me Go

No Light, No Light

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And snagged from Youtube from someone much closer….

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No Light, No Light – the final song of the night.

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Cheers,

Lila

1 comment   |  tags: , , , | posted in Concert Reviews, Random Musings

July 29, 2012

Ginger-Licious

By Betty Beat

So. I’m a ginger. Which means I hear a lot of ginger jokes. That I am thought to have no soul is a near-daily observation. As is my imagined capability for evil. Some wonder if I glitter in the sunlight. Others believe my freckles are an indication of the number of souls I’ve stolen. It is questioned about my level of ginger-vitis. I’m regaled as a Ginja (get it.. Ginger Ninja…well played, Ninja). My temper is blamed on the colour of my hair. 

And I relish it. 

Let’s face it, the world of Gingers is one of wonder. No one really knows what we’re like. We’re an enigma wrapped up in a mystery told as a riddle. A complete contradiction – we either have too much emotion or none whatsoever. We? Are an intrigue.

Who doesn’t want to be beguiling?

I thought today’s blog should be dedicated to my fellow Gingers. What better vehicle to express all our ginger-licious qualities than music?

But before we get to that, I thought I’d give up a few little spicy bits of ginger lore:

Gingers are mutants with special powers.

Don’t believe me?

Redheads have a mutated MC1Rgene, which produces a mutated MC1R receptor, also known as the melancortin-1 receptor. This mutation leads to the special hair colouration, paler skin and freckles. But, it has been found that it also leads to the super-ability to withstand much greater levels of pain that non-gingers.

I always knew I was superhero-like.

Beware the Ginger

In France, to be a Ginger is thought to be a dire fate. 

In Greek mythology Gingers turn into vampires when they die.

During the Spanish Inquisition ginger hair was proof that someone had stolen the fire of hell and had to be burned as a witch.

A Russian proverb claims, “There was never a saint with red hair.”

A French Proverb states that “Redheaded women are either violent or false and are usually both.”

A Russian Proverb warns “There was never a saint with red hair.”

The Egyptians regarded Gingers as unlucky and had a ceremony in which they burned Ginger maidens alive.

Which leads me to assume that there were a lot of really dumb people living in France, Russia and Egypt.

And just so you know…Gingerphobia is a fear of redheads and Gingerism is the bullying or prejudice of Gingers. That said, us Gingers aren’t likely to boldly confront you. We’re sneaky sorts. We are less emotional. We have more sex than our blonde and brunette counterparts. Seeing a Ginger is said to increase your heartrate. And people are afraid of us. And, most of us would encourage a little mockery. We’re always on the lookout for new souls.

But, this is about music. The one thing Gingers have, if not a soul, is a strong sense of solidarity for other Gingers. We stick together. And we have a flair for the dramatic.

A Ginger-Licious Top 20 

20.Dave Pirner, Soul Asylum 

Misery, Soul Asylum

There is a bit of speculation about this one. I’ve always thought he was more auburn-ish than a true ginger. No site lists Dave as a Ginger. But he has Ginger-ish qualities. And he was originally a self-taught drummer. And we all know how I feel about drummers.

19.Mick Hucknall, Simply Red 

Holding Back the Years, Simply Red

So, Mick Hucknall claims he is a sex addict. He claims that during Simply Red’s best years (’85-’87), he had, on average, sex with 3 different women a day. See? What did I say about the sex drive of a Ginger?

18.White Stripes’ “Fell in Love with a Girl” 

Red hair with a curl

mellow roll for the flavor

and the eyes for peeping

can’t keep away from the girl

these two sides of my brain

need to have a meeting

can’t think of anything to do

Yep. Us Gingers drive the rest of you crazy.

17.Melissa Auf Der Maur, Hole/Smashing Pumpkins

Hole, Celebrity Skin

Melissa is a Canadian Ginger. She was the bassist for Hole for 5 years, leaving to go tour with Smashing Pumpkins on their 2000 tour. She got her gig with Hole after the death of Kristen Pfaff and because of her friendship with Billy Corgan (who she later toured with – note, she became friends with Corgan after apologizing to him after one of her buddies threw a beer bottle at the stage during a Pumpkin’s concert – she later opened for the Pumpkin’s in Monty).

Of course, her resume is as impressive as her bass stylings.

16.Mercedes Lander, Kittie

Kittie, Empires (Part 2)

Drummer for Kittie – for those that don’t know them, they are a delightful all-girl metal band out of London (Ontario). I have a soft spot for Kittie – angry girl angst music at its finest.

15.REM’s “Redhead Walking”

That red head walking

Red head walking

Don’t get close

She’ll warn you with her brow

She’s a bud cuttin

Star studded

Leather fested gal

I think Michael Stipe pegged us. And I can’t find the video for this song anywhere. Very elusive.

14.Kate Nash

Kate Nash, Merry Happy

I love Kate Nash. She’s quirky. Her music is quirky and a bit off-beat. And when she was tired of touring in 2008, she proclaimed she had a “proper breakdown”, didn’t apologize for it and got over it. Just as Gingers do.

13.Jenny Lewis

Jenny Lewis & the Watson Twins – Rabbit Furcoat

Jenny was originally a child star (yeah.. I will admit.. I watched Troop Beverly Hills a lot when I was a tween…). She turned into a bit of a rock star. Only a bit more folk-indie than rock. That said, she’s pretty stellar. As is her semi-biographical song, “Rabbit Furcoat”.

12.Willie Nelson

Willie Nelson (and his sons), “Just Breathe” (Pearl Jam cover)

Normally, you wouldn’t find any country music on my list. Ever. But it’s Willie. And like Johnny, it’s classic twang country, and, therefore, as a kudos to my Dad, I include it. Plus, I found this stellar cover Willie did of Pearl Jam’s “Just Breathe” a few months ago. And we all know how I feel about PJ.

11.Blonde Redhead

Blonde Redhead, 23

The irony of Blonde Redhead is that there is nary a Ginger to be found in the band. So, are they faking Ginger status, or just envious. Since I like their music, I’ll say envious. Who doesn’t want to be a Ginger?

10.Johnny Cash Spawned a Ginger

Johnny Cash, Hurt (NIN cover)

Roseanne Cash is a Ginger. She is also the daughter of Johnny Cash and a musician in her own right. But that the Man in Black spawned a fiery red head is hardly a surprise and is an interesting note.

9.Dave Mustaine, Metallica/Megadeath

Megadeath, Symphony of Destruction

Having a start in Metallica, until he was fired in ’83 for drug and alcohol abuse, Dave does what Gingers do – we maintain. He founded Megadeath and has yet to really fade in obscurity what with book deals, coffee to promote and this bucket list idea of a heavy metal supergroup (he approached his ex-Metallica members for that – don’t get excited.. they have thus far declined). Although Metallica does have that unfortunate concept album with Lou Reed… so maybe there is hope yet.

8.Tori Amos

Tori Amos, Winter

Oh, the sometimes inspid and heartfelt warblings of Tori. She was the lighter side of a Ginger’s teen angst. A bit kooky and definitely left of centre, she was a fabulous Ginger role model to young Gingers everywhere.

7.Axl Rose

Sweet Child of Mine, Guns N’ Roses

Quintessential 80s rock. Straighten my hair and I do an awesome Axl impression. What else can you say? The guy is slightly crazy. Crazy awesome.

6.Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age)

Queens of the Stone Age, 3s and 7s

The founding and only continuous member of Queens of the Stone Age. He’s been in hot water over his hot head (ha.. punny). He beat up the frontman for the Dwarves and lipped off to some random bottle-throwing punk (really, do we think that calling anyone a “twelve year old dickless fucking turd” is bad?! What if they are??). That said, he belies the typical Ginger-ish qualities by claiming to be fairly conservative. Which makes me wonder if he really is, or just has excellent PR?

5.Patrick Stump, Fall Out Boy

Fall Out Boy, Dance Dance

Okay, so a year or so ago Stump released his own solo stuff. And, well,it sucked. So he disappeared, made everyone wonder where he went and owned up to his emotionally pessimistic response to the criticism. Proof that Gingers aren’t devoid of emotion, we just don’t make it public.

4.Hayley Williams, Paramore

Paramore, Misery Business

Dude, she’s been rocking since the age of 13. Gingers don’t peak, we just ensure we have a head start.

3.Shirley Manson, Garbage

Garbage, Blood for Poppies

One of my all-time favourite Gingers. Manson and Garbage have been musical mainstays of mine for years. She’s Scot, she has beaucoup attitude, a rebellious attitude and makes damn good music. ‘Nuff said.

Extra credit given for being one of the few great 90s bands that managed a successful comeback without sounding overtly nostalgic or creating a “20 year” documentary of some variety.

2.Beck’s “Devil’s Haircut”

So, I know. A bit of an odd choice for #2. It has no direct reference to Gingers. That said, I was recently asked if a red-head could equal a veritable “devil’s haircut”. Of course, circumstances at the time may have led to an almost immediate agreement. I was thoroughly distracted. Although, upon further review, the purveyor of this interesting thought has an excellent point. What better association could we give this song? Besides, Beck songs are almost entirely non-sensical anyway. So this gives the song a bit of purpose.

1.Florence Welch, Florence + the Machine

Florence + the Machine, No Light, No Light

Flo gets top billing for a couple of reasons. I am days away from seeing my current favourite Ginger songstress live. Second, her album has been playing almost non-stop in preparation for the concert. Plus, she has mad style, stellar vocals and makes some of the best music I’ve heard in ages (if you haven’t listened to Lungs and the follow up album, Ceremonials, do so now!). Quintessential Ginger. Well played.

Of course, Gingers do like to have a little fun.. so I’ll leave you with one final Ginger Song.. Tim Minchin’s “Prejudice”.  Just give it a listen.  And learn.  Spicy.

1 comment | posted in Random Musings

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