Music, Music, Music…

My recent late-night sessions on LimeWire have introduced me to some music that I feel is worth shouting about. (Or maybe whispering. You be the judge…)

TOOL “10,000 Days”

I’m not sure what boundries I’m crossing here, this being a Christian-populated website and all. But music is too important and too enjoyable to simply denounce an artist because of thier lyrics/beliefs/clothing/etc. Judge the art, not the artists. That being said, Tool has been blowing my mind since 1993′s “Undertow”. Their latest release has been 5 years in the making, and the results are incredible. Math geeks can rejoice as time signatures are skewed to the point of near-confusion. Metal-Heads will have plenty to bang their heads to, as this album gets pretty darn heavy at times. The mix is probably the best I’ve heard all year. Tool is not your average metal band. They don’t do interviews. They don’t take pictures. Instead, they spend their time taking chances, and creating a soundscape that is truly original.

The Weepies “Happiness” and “Say I Am You”

I am truly embarrased. While doing my Tuesday-iTunes-Browsing, I saw that Mandy Moore has her favorites published. Never in my life would I have cared about what Mandy Moore listens to. But…..I clicked anyway. Turns out, the girl has some pretty decent taste. (I later found out this is most likely due to her new relationship with Zack Braff) After one listen to The Weepies single, “Gotta Have You”, I bought both records. I couldn’t be happier. Male/Female duo, incredible harmonies, great acoustic instrumentation. The melodies are as earnest as it gets, with lyrics that range from juvenile to sublime. The more I listen to them, the more reasons I find to be less embarrased. Listen to: “Dating a Porn Star” – it’s not what you think…

Neko Case “Fox Confessor Brings The Flood”

I said it before, and I’ll say it again: Neko Case just rules. As one of the vocalists for The New Pornographers, she lends her unique voice to an otherwise forgettable band. As the solo, alt-country heroin, she’s managed to bend the genre just enough to suit her needs. Her latest record is dark and lush, but it’s never loathing. Good headphones will make this record a constant spin.

Rocky Votolato “Makers”

Rocky used to be in a 90′s emo band called Waxwing. They had tons of fans – I’ve never been one of ‘em. But now, I think he’s found his real voice. “Makers” is the best of his previous solo-emo-ramblings, and a new-found pop sensability that really makes this record appeal to all kinds. Listen to: White Daisy Passing