"Guilty? Pleasure?"- #1: John Mayer

When I was but a teenager, I put together a cassette of my least favorite songs by my favorite artists. I never played it. I'm thinking this may happen to you if I move forward with this "guilty pleasures" mix. Too much at once is a risk. Readership is already down. But if I pass the songs along in small doses, you might just pay attention and enjoy the music.

I'd like to start with the colossal douchebag known as John Mayer. I've despised this trainwreck from the day "Your Body Is A Wonderland" sent me running to the bathroom to "sell Buicks" over the toiletbowl. Another one of his hits, "Daughters," is just as insipid. Then came his attempt to legitimize with his Steve Jordan and Pino Palladino trio, which was just boring R&B, played safe for the people who bought "Your Body Is A Wonderland." Some heavy duty musicians believe in this guy and his guitar playing. I'm happy for them. I think he's third rate.

Don't get me started on his painfully misguided answers spread across many an interview.

“Life is like a box of crayons. Most people are the 8-color boxes, but what you're really looking for are the 64-color boxes with the sharpeners on the back. I fancy myself to be a 64-color box, though I've got a few missing. It's ok though, because I've got some more vibrant colors like periwinkle at my disposal. I have a bit of a problem though in that I can only meet the 8-color boxes. Does anyone else have that problem? I mean there are so many different colors of life, of feeling, of articulation.. so when I meet someone who's an 8-color type.. I'm like, "hey girl, magenta!" and she's like, "oh, you mean purple!" and she goes off on her purple thing, and I'm like, "no - I want magenta!"

See? Do you really want to spare 4 minutes for this putz?

If you're still with me...

His most recent release, "Battle Studies," has not one, but five perfect pop songs. I resisted, and even now have very heavy hands as I try to peck this info out for you. But good music is good music, and I am a sucker for hooks and melodies.

Here is one of them.

PERFECTLY LONELY

Sheryl Crow & The Facebook Tutorial

For those unfamiliar with how Facebook operates, here is a brief tutorial.

First, sign up. It's a breeze.

Enter as much personal information as possible---date of birth, mother's maiden name, name of first two pets, social security number, routing number of checking account, locker combination at the gym, waist size, shoe size, religious beliefs, addictions, allergies, preferred condiments, favorite "How I Met Your Mother" cast member. Now find a nice picture of yourself. If you're unhappy with the way you look, you can use a picture of Ed Asner or a sunset. That's it! You've created your Facebook profile.

Once you've completed that process, the hilarity begins. It is now time to socialize.

You need "friends." So, dab on your favorite cologne and start searching. Before you know it, people who had secretly been wishing you were dead for the last 30 years, will be vying for your friendship, assuming of course, they really only have to say hello once, or occasionally click their "like" button.


Once you tally up somewhere between 100-1000 "friends," it's time to start sharing pivotal information like, how bad your headache was the night before, what you had for lunch, your innermost feelings about your recent iPhone purchase, as well as holiday pictures, your love of America, as well as your distaste for Mexicans, African-Americans and homosexuals, sometimes all in the same sentence, all for your 388 new friends to see. You can offer opinions on movies and music, and post links to your favorite places, like...I don't know... Burning Wood. You could even post "on location."

"Having a Chocotini at Pheromones. Life is good!"

The most important part of the whole enchilada though, is... your status.

This simple phrase, which is carefully placed right next to your name, will set your table for that particular day. For example, on a good day, my status may be, "Sal Nunziato feels so good this morning, he may spring for a TALL stack of blueberry pancakes." Or, if something is bothering me, my status may read, "Sal Nunziato is FREAKING out because that girl at Bed, Bath, & Beyond promised the shower curtains he ordered would be in on Wednesday and ...they...were...NOT!"


Now it's time for your "friends" to comment, just like if you were in a bar or at a party, except here on Facebook, everyone cares because there is no eye contact.


It's FUN!

Here is a recent status of one of my "friends," who from the looks of it, is not really a fan of Sheryl Crow.



"Sheryl Crow sings soul- LOL"

I gather from that statement, he was less than amused by Miss Crow's new record.

I removed the names of the "friends" whose comments followed, but boy, what a Facebook shit storm.


*LOL!

*Say that ten times fast!

*Sheryl Crow tries to revive a fading career...next, it'll be "Sheryl Crow Sings The Great American Songbook"

*Can an album of duets be far behind?

*Duets with dead people!

*It's not like I have any stake in her career, or really care for her all that much, but how is writing a bunch of originals, recording it in Muscle Shoals with some respected musicians, and ending up with better than average product "reviving a fading career" or something hysterically funny? Just asking...


*Well, her name is still meaningful, but she can't sell hard tickets. That equals 'fading career'. Like you, I'm not particularly a fan, but I've nothing against her either. She's a talented artist who makes decent records and has had a good track record for writing hit singles. When was her last hit? Soak Up The Sun? That was 8 years ago. Given the wide variety of new marketing models for music since then, she appears to be following older ones. '... and I just say, Good Luck.'


*Call me sexist, but I love it when she straps on a Guild Bluesbird bass and fronts her band. Good groove, great set of pipes, and when the mood strikes her, she writes a nice song.


*Not having a "hit" doesn't mean her output was bad. We all know that. I find the hype surrounding third rate bands like The Hold Steady and The National more of a reason to LOL than a new Sheryl Crow record.


*Agreed. I'm certainly not disparaging her qualifications, only the current state of her career. There's nothing wrong with her that a hit wouldn't cure. As to the two bands you mentioned, their success is as laughable as it is bankable... for now!

*What new bands do you like?

*Florence & the Machine, Mumford & Sons, The London Souls, Little Dragon, Kristina Train, off the top my head.

*I have no problem with Sheryl Crow's talent, or her work. However, the late stage "theme album" is always a red flag, no matter who does it.

*Steve Miller just put out a Blues Theme album & its horrible,the blues watered down to nothing ,imagine Robert Johnsons " Hellhound on My Trail "done' (Keep On ) Rocking me Baby style...not good

*Goot Got Amighteee!

*Sheryl Crow FANS. LOL!!

*Whitebread radio-friendly clearchannel craprock. hits don't mean anything - ask vanilla ice. a douchebag is a douchebag, regardless of selling power or sex...

*I think this would be an apropos time for me to say that Graham Parker & The Rumor sucked.

*"Sheryl Crow to cover GG Allin for upcoming tribute...."

*Sheryl Crow's "Tribute To Toti"...Featuring all of Toti Fields' best bits, including...'Gene Simmons is a nice Jewish boy...'!

*I don't care about her career or her motivation. I happened to turn on the TV this AM to see her doing a completely deracinated version of "soul music" and wondered why so many people take third-rate artists like her seriously. she was never a great singer or songwriter (others wrote her best material). i've always considered her worthless (except for the Liz Phair-channeling "Soak Up the Sun," which was a total fluke). My LOL was because she might think she's singing soul, but she's so far off the mark it's risible.


*I love 'deracinated'! I like S Crow's face, but never got the rest.

*'deracinated' good, yes.

*She's just a fame whore. There is NOTHING she won't do for media exposure. She appeared in an episode of CBS' long running summer reality series 'Big Brother' as a "reward" for god's sake.

*lol......isnt country music kinda... like (LMFAO) ....soul

I think it's unfair to call Sheryl Crow a "fame" whore. She's far from that and has made some really good records.

*She has. There's a new Sheryl CD in my local Starbucks BTW.

*Not a great singer, but a good musician. Do not dis.

*lol no comment

*re: "unfair to call Sheryl Crow a "fame" whore.", "Do not dis". guess I hit a nerve. he he. and I suppose her ex - Lance Armstrong never did steroids. ;-)

*Life is unfair. Who noticed?

*let's see ... Eric Clapton, John Mayer, Lance Armstrong, Kid Rock. Have I forgotten anybody? I guess they must have changed the definition of 'fame whore'. :-D

*why don't you ask her for a date?

*have fun!

*I love Lance Armstrong ! Do not dis

*Still on sheryl crow??? its been 26 hours of this and u wonder y shes a fame whore

*u must secretly love her.....LMFAO... let it go already

*Who are you and what's your claim to fame?

*Apparently the rare person who has not slept with Sheryl Crow or won the Tour de France.

*Hey- why on earth do we ALL have to have the same opinion? I don't like her at all . Apparently you do. Why on earth is it soooo important to not make disparaging comments about ...the Sacred Crow?

*soooo who do u think will win the world series this year..... hint hint...lol


*there are "singers" who I do not like at all. Sheryl Crow is far better than any of them. Try Cheryl Lynn some time. Or Taylor Dayne. Or Carrie Underwood. Or Ted Nugent for that matter. Go off on them, I'm game. Sheryl Crow is hardly... the level of voice that I would expect to generate even 4 comments much less 30. She's OK.

*i think the yankees will win it.......lmao



THE END


Now, you ardent Facebook non-supporters know what you're missing. I envy you bastards, but I'm afraid for me, there is no turning back.

And you know, I still don't see what is so hilarious about Sheryl Crow's new record, "100 Miles From Memphis."

See you on Facebook.

If It's Tuesday, It Must Be Street Date: 7/27/10

ERIC CARMEN- S/T, BOATS AGAINST THE CURRENT, CHANGE OF HEART

Raspberries' leader's first three solo LPs sprawled across 2 CDs. Each of these records features some pop gems and a full blown, overproduced stinker or two.

Personally, I like his solo stuff. No, it's not the crunchy, power pop of his former band, but if you could separate the two careers, Eric Carmen still had it for these three records, at least when he wasn't whining. Check out "No Hard Feelings," "She Did It," and one of my fave Eric tunes, "Nowhere To Hide."

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Carmen-Boats-Against-Current-Change/dp/B003LUH5TU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280229394&sr=1-2








ROBERT CRAY- COOKIN' IN MOBILE (CD & DVD)

Live document of the Grammy winning singing/songwriting blues guitarist's February performance at Mobile's Saenger Theatre. Can't really pinpoint just what it is about Robert Cray that irks me, especially since I love the genre and so many love the man. But I've tried for years and nothing seems to work.

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003JO88QC/ref=s9_simh_gw_p15_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=173192SBB15W6GBK66MV&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846










TOM JONES- PRAISE & BLUES

Produced by Ethan Johns, and featuring special guests Gillian Welch, David Rawlings and Booker T. Jones, famed panty-catcher and powerhouse vocalist Tom Jones is back with an album of blues and spirituals, and holy moly, does it kick some ass!

He doesn't sound much different from his heyday on Parrot Records, and the bare-bones production leaves plenty of space for the listener to get inside. Tom Jones sounds strong and inspired on this soulful collection tunes from the likes of Bob Dylan, Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Willie Dixon, among others.


1. What Good Am I
2. Lord Help The Poor & Needy
3. Did Trouble Me
4. Strange Things Happen Everyday
5. Burning Hell
6. If I Give My Soul
7. You Don't Knock
8. Nobody's Fault But Mine
9. Didn't It Rain
10. Ain't No Grave
11. Run On
12. Praise & Blame

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Praise-Blame-Tom-Jones/dp/B003R4Z7EU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1280229698&sr=1-1








MARK OLSON- MANY COLORED KITE

Jayhawks co-founder is back with a collection of folky tunes that remind me a bit of what you'd hear on a Barry McGuire or We Five record. Interesting for a minute, mopey for about 40.

FYI--not sure if it's an Amazon glitch, but many copies are being sold for a penny.

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Many-Colored-Kite-Mark-Olson/dp/B000008HTB/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1280229466&sr=1-1










BILLY SQUIER- DON'T SAY NO (30TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION)

Am I more amazed that "The Stroke" is 30 years old or that we are celebrating it? I'll get back to you.

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Dont-Say-No-30th-Anniversary/dp/B003PTP4Z4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280229588&sr=1-1








STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN- COULDN'T STAND THE WEATHER (2CD LEGACY EDITION)

"Digitally remastered and expanded two CD Legacy Edition of the Blues guitarist's 1984 album. This edition contains 16 previously unreleased tracks, studio outtakes and the live recording of Vaughan & Double Trouble's 1984 performance at the Spectrum in Montreal. A 24 colour page booklet completes the package with liner notes by Guitar World Associate Editor (and Stevie Ray Vaughan authority) Andy Aledort as well as commentary by Double Trouble band mates Chris Layton and Tommy Shannon."

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Couldnt-Weather-Legacy-Vaughan-Trouble/dp/B003MX5OOY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280229618&sr=1-2


**ALSO OUT THIS WEEK**

AVENGED SEVENFOLD- NIGHTMARE
http://www.amazon.com/Nightmare-Avenged-Sevenfold/dp/B003OF3R0S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280230105&sr=1-1

BRENDA & THE TABULATIONS- I KEEP COMING BACK FOR MORE
http://www.amazon.com/Keep-Coming-Back-More-Expanded/dp/B003K7TMSQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280230132&sr=1-1

DEAN & BRITTA- 13 MOST BEAUTIFUL:SONGS FOR ANDY WARHOL'S SCREEN
http://www.amazon.com/13-Most-Beautiful-Warhols-Screen/dp/B003P5AJLW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280230176&sr=1-1

JESCA HOOP- HUNTING MY DRESS
http://www.amazon.com/Hunting-My-Dress-bonus-EP/dp/B003S6T5D6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1280230207&sr=1-3

Todd On Monday : Utopia, C.W. Post 1973

I'm fascinated by this show for a number of reasons. It was recorded in May of 1973, just a little over a month after the release of "A Wizard/A True Star," so we get some tunes from that album, which until the recent performances of the entire record had been a rarity.

It's also only a year since the release of "Something/Anything?" and our man is already fed up with stardom. Check out the piss-take "Hits Medley." Rundgren has made no secret of his aversion to commercial success and giving people what they want. I just didn't realize it happened so early in his career.

There is also a rarely played "Devil's Bite" from "Runt," as part of the "Heavy Metal Kids" medley, and some tunes that may or may not be Moogy Klingman or M. Frog Labat compositions. If anyone can enlighten me, I'd be grateful.

Sound quality is not the greatest. It's an almost 40 year old audience recording that is a bit boomy. But, I find it completely listenable. Your ears will adjust.

Special thanks once again to Frank B.


TRACK LIST

Dive Bombin'
Utopia Theme
Black Maria
International Feel
Never Never Land
Tic Tic Tic It Wears Off
Couldn't I Just Tell You
When The Shit Hits The Fan
Le Feel Internacionale
~unknown instrumental~
We Are Crazy
Is It My Name
Hits Medley
Heavy Metal Kids>Devil's Bite
Utopia Theme (Reprise)

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Sunday Night Covers #1: New Pornographers Do Sparks

THROW HER AWAY & GET A NEW ONE
(WFMU, 2/19/01)

"Groove Making" : THE WEEKEND MIX

It started with the title track, an amusing little groove maker from the "Crying In The Streets" man, George Perkins. Not the greatest soul number ever recorded, but I'm in love with it nonetheless, especially when Perkins calls out for support and one or two startled voices respond with a tepid, "Yeah."

The rest seemed to fall in place. Each song falls into its own special pocket, whether being led by a Hammond organ or a bad-ass funk beat. It's gonna be a steamy one this weekend, with temps hitting 100. Hope the mix is appropriate for whatever you do.

Enjoy the weekend!



TRACKLIST

Let It Roll- Ernestine Allen
The Ironic Twist- Jimmie Vaughan
Groove Making- George Perkins
Dresses Too Short- Syl Johnson
Save Me- Aretha Franklin
Let It All hang Out- The Hombres
You're My Girl- Rod Stewart
10-4 (Calling All Cars)- Benny Spellman
1-2-3- Jimmy Smith
S.G.B. (Stone Graveyard Business)- Eddie Bo
Garbage Man- Family Vibes
Mobetta's Blues- Maurice Brown & Bobby Broom
The Payback/I Mean You- T.J. Kirk
Unwind Yourself- Marva Whitney
Little Girl- Muddy Waters

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David Egan

Don't you just love David Egan? You know, David Egan?

(I was afraid of that.)

Shreveport, Louisiana's David Egan has been writing songs since the mid-seventies. Fans of New Orleans and its Jazz Festival will of course know Egan as a fine solo artist and member of the "supergroup" Lil' Band O' Gold, along side such Louisiana heroes Warren Storm, C.C. Adcock, and Steve Riley. Few others know David Egan at all. His songs have been covered by Percy Sledge, Maura O'Connell, the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Etta James, Solomon Burke, Irma Thomas, Marcia Ball, and John Mayall, for starters. He's a wonderful piano player and his singing voice, sounding more than a little at times like Boz Scaggs, has a soulful ache that could melt the iciest hearts.

In his 30 plus year career, Egan's only released 2 solo records, 2003's "20 Years Of Trouble" and 2008's "You Don't Know Your Mind." Both of these records play as if they were tailor-made for those of us who pine for the sounds of Crescent City with everything from greasey funk, swamp pop, jump blues, and good time Cajun beats, all with David Egan's melancholy and personal storytelling.




Please enjoy the title track from "You Don't Know Your Mind" and "Dreamer," from the new Lil' Band O' Gold record "The Promised Land," which has secured a spot on my year end list of the best of 2010.


ZIP FILE




And please buy both of these killer records!

DAVID EGAN- YOU DON'T KNOW YOUR MIND
http://louisianamusicfactory.com/showoneprod.asp?ProductID=5915

LIL' BAND O' GOLD- THE PROMISED LAND
http://louisianamusicfactory.com/showoneprod.asp?ProductID=6763

If It's Tuesday, It Must Be Street Date: 7/20/10

Slow summer Tuesday, so this is all I have for you.







MARC COHN- LISTENING BOOTH: 1970

Well respected, singer-songwriter Marc Cohn takes some of our favorite songs and makes them slow, smokey and lifeless. Every arrangement feels like some casual walk in the park. "Maybe I'm Amazed," "The Letter," "Tears Of A Clown," and "The Only Living Boy In New York" are just some of tunes that don't work. I went in hopeful. I came out miserable.

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Listening-Booth-1970-Marc-Cohn/dp/B003IFMXAE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1279623420&sr=1-1







SHERYL CROW- 100 MILES FROM MEMPHIS

Bob Boilen of NPR's "All Things Considered" once said, "If the first song doesn't do it for me, I take it off." If I played by those rules, I would have missed out on Sheryl Crow's fine new record. Yes, she is everywhere, sometimes when you don't want her to be, but she can sing, she's written some great songs and she can play bass guitar without looking at her left hand.

She attempts an authentic R&B record with the help of producer Doyle Bramhall II and some special guests, including Keith Richards and, of course, Justin Timberlake. And it works. You just have to ignore the opening track, which sounds like a forced pastiche of every sixties 45 she's ever listened to, while the rest of the album feels real. "100 Miles From Memphis" is a great listen with nice production. It's a blast and a solid showcase for Sheryl Crow.

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/100-Miles-Memphis-Sheryl-Crow/dp/B003NWS5FO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279623455&sr=1-1









EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER- A TIME AND A PLACE (4 CD OFFICIAL BOOTLEG COLLECTION)

My count is 11. The ELP catalogue has been reissued 11 times since 1990. Big versions, small versions, deluxe versions, gold plated versions, surround sound versions, versions on different labels, I've looked hard and no matter how you slice it, all of these versions contain Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Oh well. This box from the stellar Shout Factory label has the following:

"4 CDs of prime unreleased material from 1970 to 1998. These fully authorized, remastered live performances were taken from the best-possible soundboard recordings (discs 1 through 3) and audience tapes (disc 4). The set also includes a collectible poster and liner notes by Jim Allen. A Time And A Place brings together a select body of performances captured before worldwide audiences during the band's career. From the group's raw and unrestrained sound of the early 70s, their rearrangements of compositions by internationally renowned composers, to their timeless conceptual pieces such as Tarkus, Karn Evil 9 and Pirates, ELP have always been a band to push hard against musical boundaries. With Keith Emerson on keyboards, Greg Lake on bass and vocals and Carl Palmer on drums, ELP broadened the audience for progressive rock. The band released a series of landmark albums in the 1970s, and several more in the 90s after a 14-year hiatus."

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Time-Place-Emerson-Lake-Palmer/dp/B003O5MNB2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1279623478&sr=1-1










BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA- DON'T MESS WITH A BIG BAND

Johnny Rotten's short-lived talk show on VH-1, "Rotten Television" should go down in history for this exchange alone. Setzer is the guest and Johnny gives him a calendar to remind him what year it was. He says, and I'm paraphrasing, "You're bringing back big band music? What are you bringing back next, World War II?" Anyway, here is a 2 CD document of Brian's 2009 tour.

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Dont-Mess-Big-Band-Live/dp/B003K7B6VC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1279623519&sr=1-1

"Double Header" : THE WEEKEND MIX

First up, what I think is one of the most insanely perfect collection of songs ever compiled. This CD, "Shakin' Fit" has inspired me more than twice. No longer in print, "Shakin' Fit" takes some of the most raucous and groovy tracks from the unsung heroes of rock and soul and never relents. A good handful of these tunes may have been introduced to you by bands like The Detroit Cobras and The Dirtbombs. But here, we have the originals in all their grimy glory.

1. Nervous - Fabulous Playboys
2. Love-Itis - Harvey Scales & the 7 Sounds
3. The Chicken Astronaut - Five Du-Tones
4. Standin' on the Corner - Dorothy Berry
5. I Live the Life I Love - Willie Parker
6. The Shells - The Shells
7. Mo Gorilla - The Ideals
8. What's the Matter with Me - Las Gardenias
9. Welfare Cheese - Emanual Laskey
10. The Dog - Junior & the Classics
11. The Chicken Scratch - Jc Davis
12. The Wallop - The Tabs
13. The Frog - Sir Guy
14. Skin the Cat - Jimmy Merchant
15. Shakin' Fit - The Pyramids
16. My Baby Likes to Boogaloo - Don Gardner
17. Ain't That Bad - Pancho Villa & the Bandits
18. Damper Down - Bobby Davis
19. Sock It to 'em J.B. - Part I - Rex Garvin & the Mighty Cravers
20. Grandma Bird - The Four Holidays
21. You Gotta Change - Kitty Love
22. Wang Dang Dula - Donald & the Delighters
23. Whip It on Me - Sonny Raye
24. Hey Sah-Lo-Ney - Mickey Lee Lane
25. Boss with the Hot Sauce - Davis Jones & the Fenders
26. Sticky Pig Feet - R.T. & the Pot Lickers
27. The Cow - Bill Robinson & the Quails
28. Heartattack - Don & Dewey
29. Get Down - Harvey Scales & the 7 Sounds

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As a bonus, courtesy of the incessantly generous Don at ASH, is this short but absolutely killer Graham Parker set featuring Mick Ronson on guitar, and originally broadcast on Swedish radio in 1991.


From ASH:

"Mick had finished the Hunter/Ronson tour and been diagnosed as having cancer. This was his last tour. He hooked up with Johan Wahlstrom and The Yobs. The first set had Johan and Mick playing a combined set. For the second part, the band including Mick would back Graham Parker."












Graham Parker Mick Ronson and the Yobs

1 Stupefacation
2 Weeping Statues
3 Back To Schooldays
4 Last Couple On The Dance Floor
5 My Love's Strong
6 Get Started Start A Fire
7 New York Shuffle

ZIP FILE

ENJOY THE WEEKEND

Rich Does Hank

While in a semi-deep sleep, having one of my usual dreams involving an awl, some Halvah and Barbara Eden, I was suddenly awakened by a car blasting "Move It On Over" by George Thorogood, easily one of the most annoying presences on FM radio in the 80s.

That got me thinking about a version of the Hank Williams tune that for my money, destroys the Thorogood version. It's slick and it's subtle and it's the otherworldy Richard Thompson.

From RT's famous Gerdes' Folk City shows of 1982, a portion of which was released on the "Small Town Romance" album, here is "Move It On Over," taken from a killer 4 CD set called "Alone With His Guitar," which features an early show from 9/29/82, and two late shows, one from 9/29 and 9/30, as well as part of the soundcheck.

I especially love when RT asks the audience to "keep up" as they clap along. Then he starts his solo, and the audience falls apart. Though in defense of said crowd, it sounds more like Rich running away.




MOVE IT ON OVER

Difford, Tilbrook, Zander, Nielsen, Pierce, Fenner & Ziggy

Something needs to be said about Glenn Tilbrook's guitar playing and Robin Zander's voice.

Last night's double-bill of Squeeze and Cheap Trick at Radio City Music Hall was something of a dream concert. I mean, why not tack on Irma Thomas and have the New York Yankees giving away free pizza in the lobby, while you're at it? I expected good things and I got great things.










Precisely at 8, CT took the stage, and for the next 75 minutes vocalist Robin Zander, defying age, at least from Row UU, stood aglow and proved with song after song that he is one of the greatest voices of our time. Rick Nielsen thinks so as well, introducing him as "my favorite vocalist in the world."

Even better was the set list. I once wrote a piece about how Cheap Trick, a band who could give Bob Dylan a run for his money with their relentless touring, rarely mixes up the set list on stage. You can read it HERE.

I followed it up with a request from a reader for my "dream Cheap Trick set list."
That's HERE.

Happy to say, 5 of my choices and only 3 of the band's usually tired set made it last night. From memory, and not in order, Trick wowed us with the following:

BABY LOVES TO ROCK
I CAN'T TAKE IT
MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR
COME ON, COME ON
HEAVEN TONIGHT
WAY OF THE WORLD
(The great opener)
BALLAD OF T.V VIOLENCE
DREAM POLICE
BORDERLINE
(freakin' Borderline!!)

And of course, I Want You To Want Me & Surrender.

Totally fab!




But wait! There is more.


9:40 and Squeeze comes right out of the box with an inspired "Black Coffee in Bed," which thankfully, spared us the usual 10 minutes of audience participation, by its use as an opener and not a closer.

Difford & Tilbrook, along with almost original bassist John Bentley, and two younger dudes on keys and drums, plowed on flawlessly with a tasty set list of their own.

Annie Get Your Gun, Goodbye Girl, Loving You Tonight, Hourglass, both Is That Love & If It's Love, all sounding as fresh as ever. They even pulled out "Hope Fell Down," one of the better songs from the still disappointing "Difford/Tilbrook" solo album.








I need to point out that Glenn Tilbrook has never been mentioned in his 35 year career as a "guitar god." It's a shame, really. This man's playing gets better and better. Sure, it is overshadowed by the brilliance of the songwriting and melodies with more hooks than the Stella Maris Bait & Tackle Shop on Emmons Avenue in Sheepshead bay. But if you're a fan of the band, listen to a handful of the hits, specifically "Take Me, I'm Yours," "Another Nail In My Heart," "Is That Love," and Pulling Mussels From The Shell," and this time, refrain from singing along and focus on the guitar solos. Tilbrook could and should duel it out with any of the obvious guitar players one thinks of when the subject comes up. He has it all, flavor and phrasing, speed and style.

Did anyone who was there last night catch the note perfect rip of Freddie Stone's "Dance To The Music" solo that Glenn placed right in the middle of "Cool For Cats?"

Genius.

Next up, The Hollies and Dwight Twilley at the Highline Ballroom!

~wink~

If It's Tuesday, It Must Be Street Date: 7/13/10

CROWDED HOUSE- INTRIGUER

When Neil Finn reunited Crowded House after the tragic death of drummer Paul Hester, he was already at work on a new solo album. So the fruits of the first meetings became "Time On Earth," a record filled with material from that purported Neil record, as well as newer songs, all of which, when sequenced together, said very little. There was a gem or two, as Neil Finn is one of the finest songwriters of our time. But the first Crowded House release in almost 15 years missed the mark, having none of the spirit or hook-filled melodies that put them on the map many moons ago. It was slapdash and it sounded it.

Today sees the release of "Intriguer," a "real" Crowded House record, with songs written specifically for a Crowded House record. Unfortunately, this fares no better. Neil Finn's songwriting has changed. I can't pinpoint the problem, though I could simply say, the songs aren't very good. Again, there is a gem or two, "Either Side Of The World' and "Twice If You're Lucky" both stand out for me. But "Intriguer" mostly trundles along, with songs that are dense and in need of a real kickstart.

I love Neil Finn, and I want to love "Intriguer." But we shouldn't have to work so hard as fans when listening to pop music. "Intriguer" is hard work for little pay; a collection of tunes in desperate need of choruses.

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Intriguer-Crowded-House/dp/B003P034UA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021594&sr=8-2







DANGER MOUSE & SPARKLEHORSE- DARK KNIGHT OF THE SOUL

This is apparently a big deal. I missed the boat, I think. Mark Linkous, leader of Sparklehorse started this record with Danger Mouse and left it unfinished, unhappy with his vocals. When Linkous took his life back in March, producer Danger Mouse, and some heavy friends like Iggy Pop, Julian Casablancas, Suzanne Vega, David Lynch and The Flaming Lips for starters, all joined in to complete what is now a tribute. I wasn't a fan of Sparklehorse, and I'm not impressed by any of the music found here, regardless of the sentiment. Amazon download IS only $3.99, though.

GET IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Night-Soul-Danger-Mouse/dp/B003O6M3NO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021623&sr=1-2










JOE ELLIOTT- MY REGENERATION

Elliott, lead singer of Def Leppard and close personal friend of Ian Hunter has put together quite a bizarre tribute with "My Regeneration." The record features covers of some of Hunter's less popular solo material, and...get this...songs from the two Mott albums that were recorded after Hunter left. I must admit, the fan that I am, enjoyed this. As the quote from the product description on Amazon states, "Sometimes the most interesting projects arise from the most unusual circumstances."

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/My-Regeneration-Joe-Elliott/dp/B003MEFRTA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021682&sr=1-1










TOMMY KEENE- YOU HEAR ME: A RETROSPECTIVE 1983-2009

Tommy Keene is a power pop legend who has put out a lot of records, most of which are worth your time. This 2 CD retrospective is perfect. It covers the early EPs, right on through 2009's "In The Late Bright.' 41 tracks in all. (It's priced as a single disc, to boot.)

1 Back to Zero Now (3:06)
2 Mr. Roland (5:41)
3 Baby Face (3:37)
4 Back Again (4:02)
5 Safe in the Light (3:48)
6 Gold Town (3:04)
7 Places That Are Gone (3:51)
8 Paper Words and Lies (2:24)
9 Kill Your Sons (4:58)
10 Call On Me (3:05)
11 My Mother Looked Like Marilyn Monroe (3:23)
12 Underworld (4:57)
13 Astronomy (1:29)
14 Run Now (4:43)
15 Nothing Can Change You (3:18)
16 This Could Be Fiction (3:22)
17 Based on Happy Times (3:46)
18 When Our Vows Break (3:19)
19 Highwire Days (3:35)
20 Don't Sleep in the Daytime (Unreleased Ardent Version) (2:18)
21 A Way Out (4:10)

Disc 2:
1 Love is a Dangerous Thing (3:58)
2 Driving Into The Sun (3:35)
3 Down, Down, Down (4:05)
4 No One in This City (2:34)
5 Turning on Blue (4:15)
6 Your Heart Beats Alone (4:02)
7 Silent Town (3:59)
8 Good Thing Going (2:54)
9 Compromise (3:02)
10 Long Time Missing (4:34)
11 The World Outside (3:18)
12 Never Really Been Gone (3:27)
13 Big Blue Sky (3:46)
14 Black and White New York (5:15)
15 Warren in The 60's (3:24)
16 Lives Become Lies (5:06)
17 A Secret Life of Stories (3:50)
18 Save This Harmony (4:02)
19 Tomorrow's Gone Tonight (3:06)
20 Leaving Your World Behind (4:43)


BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Tommy-Keene-You-Hear-Retrospective/dp/B003O3RI1O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021752&sr=1-1









STING- SYMPHONICITIES

Yes, I know. But hear me out. No really. Please, hear me out. This is ok. It works. I didn't want it to. I was cocked and loaded to load it on this cock, but truth be told, I was once a fan. Pre-tantric sex, pre-beard, pre-Mary J. Blige friendship, pre-lute records, Sting made some great music. "Symphonicities" is NOT a tired re-working of old faves with an orchestra. It's smart. The arrangements are wonderful. And it is the most listenable music from Sting since "Ten Summoners Tales," which I will go on record as saying, is one of the best records of the 90s. Then again, if you hate the man and hate strings, you should move on. Nothing to see here.

TRACK LIST

Tracklist:
1. Next To You 2:30
2. Englishman In New York 4:23
3. Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic 4:56
4. I Hung My Head 5:31
5. You Will Be My Ain True Love 3:44
6. Roxanne 3:37
7. When We Dance 5:26
8. The End Of The Game 6:07
9. I Burn For You 4:03
10.We Work The Black Seam 7:18
11.She’s Too Good For Me 3:03
12.The Pirate’s Bride 5:02

Here are two tracks from a recent performance at the Hollywood Bowl. The fidelity is a strong B-plus, and it will at least give you some idea of what's going on with "Symphonicities."

EVERY LITTLE THING SHE DOES IS MAGIC


I HUNG MY HEAD






BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Symphonicities-Sting/dp/B003LAH7MU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021808&sr=1-1-spell






**ALSO OUT THIS WEEK**


MARC ALMOND- VARIETE
http://www.amazon.com/Variete-Marc-Almond/dp/B003JCTISG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021863&sr=1-1-spell

TRACY BONHAM- MASTS OF MANHATTA
http://www.amazon.com/Masts-Manhatta-Tracy-Bonham/dp/B003O9861Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021883&sr=1-1

KORN- KORN III: REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE
http://www.amazon.com/Korn-III-Remember-Who-Special/dp/B003GE69K2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021903&sr=1-1

M.I.A.- MAYA
http://www.amazon.com/Deluxe/dp/B003M0H4Q8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021926&sr=1-1

R.E.M. - FABLES OF THE RECONSTRUCTION (2 CD DELUXE EDITION)
http://www.amazon.com/Fables-Reconstruction-25th-Anniversary-R-E-M/dp/B003M70P1M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021952&sr=1-1

SCHOOL OF SEVEN BELLS- DISCONNECT FROM DESIRE
http://www.amazon.com/Disconnect-Desire-School-Seven-Bells/dp/B003PBYT5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279021988&sr=1-1

Bob Sheppard, R.I.P.

"Okay, You'll Like This One" : THE WEEKEND MIX

I've been on a Tom Waits kick the last few weeks. Not the pre-"Rain Dogs" material, which is usually where I wind up, but the post-"Rain Dogs" material, which upon each release, got the perfunctory Sal snort and eyeroll. "Again with the megaphone and calliope?!"

Reading last month's Tom Waits edited issue of Mojo was the catalyst. I wish I had specifics as to why what made me very impatient first time around--"The Black Rider," "Alice," "Blood Money" and "Real Gone"--suddenly sounded like beautiful noise.

While revisiting these records, I found today's mix, a bootleg subtitled "Monologues and Rarities." It's a perfect companion to "Orphans: Brawlers, Bawlers & Bastards," the 3 CD set collection of stray tracks released a few years back. It's model is not much different than Waits' now legendary "Nighthawks At The Diner." I don't know who compiled this great set of stories and song, but thank you.



TRACK LIST

1 Intro (Cirkus 07 14 99)
2 Black Wings (VH1 Storytellers 04 01 99)
3 Yerthebest
4 Such A Scream (Oakland 06 09 99)
5 Angry Flowers
6 Leavin' On The 219 (Oakland 06 10 99)
7 The Most Marvellous View Of Buffalo
8 On The Nickel (Los Angeles 06 14 99)
9 Cows
10 Muriel (Chicago 08 26 99)
11 Cologne
12 Swordfishtrombone (Boston 09 19 99)
13 Leeches And Vultures
14 Eggs And Sausage > Invitation To The Blues (New York 09 24 99)
15 Canadian Microphone
16 A Sight For Sore Eyes (Denver 10 13 99)
17 It's Gone Too Far
18 Broken Bicycles (Denver 10 13 99)
19 Rats
20 Jesus' Blood Never Failed Me Yet (Denver Radio 10 13 99)
21 Small Town Cigarette Lighters
22 Blind Love (Seattle 10 19 99)
23 Spider Ad Weasel
24 Tom Trauberts Blues (Mountainview 10 30 99)
25 The Three Ages Of Man
26 Warsaw At 5am (Warsaw 05 26 00)
27 I Know I've Been Changed (Warsaw 05 26 00)
28 Testamints
29 Ain't Going Down To The Well No More (Warsaw 05 26 00)
30 Underwear Search
31 Yerthebest reprise

ZIP FILE



BONUS MIX





I won't be near a computer on Monday, so I'd like to fulfill a request now.

A reader and Todd Rundgren fan was looking for this Japanese collection of rarities called "Somewhere/Anywhere?"

Well, here it is.

Tracklisting:
1. Be Nice To Me (Radio Session)
2. Open My Eyes (Live)
3. Broken Down & Busted (Live)
4. Believe In Me (Radio Session)
5. Ooh Baby (Radio Session)
6. It Wouldn't Have Made Any Difference
7. Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (Live)
8. Something Anything (Radio Spot)
9. Something Anything (Radio Spot)
10. Hold Me Tight (Radio Session)
11. 96 Tears (Live)
12. Dream Goes On Forever (Live)
13. Just One Victory (Live)
14. Something Anything (Radio Spot)
15. Something Anything (Radio Spot)
16. Do Ya/Utopia (Alternate Live)
17. Where Does The Time Go (Outtake)
18. Something Anything (Radio Spot)
19. Something Anything (Radio Spot)
20. Sequence 1
21. Sequence 2
22. Sequence 3
23. Sequence 4


ZIP FILE

(links for zip files will be erady by 8:30 A.M.)

Enjoy the weekend!

Live Albums & Reunions

I believe it was Cheap Trick's three night stands in various cities back in 1998 when they devoted each night to performing a full album in its entirety that started the trend. (Though it could be said, The Who playing "Tommy" in 1969 may have been the first.) It has become more commonplace and less of a novelty these days, with everyone from Judas Priest to Echo & The Bunnymen to Arthur Lee & Love and Lucinda Williams devoting full concerts to one classic album.

Todd Rundgren has taken the trend a bit further by asking fans what they'd like to hear, with 1973's "A Wizard/A True Star" getting the fan vote for full live treatment last year, and two records, 1974's "Todd" and 1980's "Healing" sharing the bill in an upcoming, short series of doubleheaders in September.

There is also news of The Who re-re-visiting "Quadrophenia" sometime in 2011. (The Who already showcased the full album in concert back in 1998, with some special guests.)

When Bruce Springsteen & The E-Street Band announced toward the end of the their last tour that certain nights would be devoted to certain albums, my initial thought was, "Why announce it?" If you were a fan with a ducat and the ESB opened with "The Ties That Bind," then suddenly played "Sherry Darling" into "Jackson Cage," "Two Hearts" and so on, wouldn't you have lost your head? The only benefit I see in knowing ahead of time that the band was playing "The River" side to side, was knowing just when you could visit the facilities for some relief. (I chose "I'm A Rocker.")

Which brings me to my list of the albums I'd like to see performed live, side to side, with advanced notice or not.

In no particular order:

Todd Rundgren- Something/Anything?

This seems like the obvious choice, which leads me to believe that Todd will never do it.

Roxy Music- Siren

This record was the transition from the band's experimental glam years into their suave and smooth years, and remains my favorite album by Bryan Ferry, et al.


Elvis Costello & The Attractions- Get Happy

Not my favorite EC record, but certainly in my Top 5. Elvis may not have the energy these days to bust out twenty 2 minute rockers in less than an hour, but that doesn't mean he shouldn't try.

Tom Waits- Rain Dogs

When I saw Waits perform on the "Rain Dogs" tour in 1985, he might have played the record in its entirety, but not side to side. This still remains his finest work, blending both his early Tin Pan Alley style with his later, often abrasive carnival barker persona.

Rolling Stones- Now

Yeah, right! But man...

Faces- Ooh La La

The band is reuniting for a tour with Simply Red's Mick Hucknall taking on lead vocal duties for the once brilliant, but now painfully embarrassing Rod Stewart. And I know "Ooh La La" isn't considered the Faces best, but it is my favorite.



Jeff Beck & Rod Stewart- Beck-Ola

I'd forgive Rod The Clod for blowing off Ian McLagan if he somehow pulled this one off.

Rockpile- Seconds Of Pleasure

The Nick Lowe/Dave Edmunds feud (?) seems to be deeper than most realize, and a Rockpile reunion, with Billy Bremner and Terry Williams seems the least likely of all. But, one can dream.

If It's Tuesday, It Must Be Street Date: 7/6/10

There ain't much here...holiday weekend...blah blah blah.

My two picks of the week:



JIMMIE VAUGHAN- PLAYS BLUES, BALLADS, AND FAVORITES

Jimmie Vaughan delivers a simmering collection of familiar tunes with Austin's Lou Ann Barton on board to sing and play along. The playing is great and the production is better.


1. The Pleasure's All Mine
2. Come Love
3. I'm Leaving It Up To You
4. Comin' & Goin'
5. Wheel Of Fortune
6. How Can You Be So Mean
7. Just A Little Bit
8. I Miss You So
9. RM Blues
10. Roll, Roll, Roll
11. Send Me Some Lovin'
12. (She's Got The) Blues For Sale
13. Funny How Time Slips Away

BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Jimmie-Vaughan-Plays-Blues-Ballads-Favorites/dp/B003JVJ1HU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1278414674&sr=1-1






ANN SAVOY & HER SLEEPLESS KNIGHTS- BLACK COFFEE

While Ann Savoy is usually associated with Cajun music, this new release, her second with the Sleepless Knights, finds her revisiting some standards in the style of the Hot Club Of France. There are blues songs associated with Bessie Smith, as well as classics from Django Reinhardt, George and Ira Gershwin, Rodgers & Hart and Johnny Mercer.

1. I Cried for You
2. Whoa Tilly,
3. Nuages
4. Black Coffee
5. If It Ain't Love
6. You've Been A Good Ole Wagon
7. My Funny Valentine
8. Cette Chanson Est Pour Vous
9. If You Were Mine
10. New Orleans Blues
11. Embraceable You
12. J-attendrai

Nicely done.


BUY IT--->http://www.amazon.com/Black-Coffee-Savoy-Sleepless-Knights/dp/B003N7G8VC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1278414643&sr=1-2






THE REST...




CHEAP TRICK- BUDOKAN! FRIDAY, APRIL 28TH, 1978

A single CD version of the recent deluxe version which was an expanded version of the deluxe version prior which was a remastered version of the prior 2 CD set which was an expanded version of the single CD of the most-overrated record by one of my all-time favorite bands.

LOOK, BUT DON'T TOUCH--->http://www.amazon.com/Budokan-Friday-April-1978-DVD/dp/B003MX5ORG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1278414557&sr=1-3






ALSO OUT THIS WEEK:


BIG BOI- SIR LUSCIOUS LEFT FOOT : THE SON OF CHICO DUSTY
http://www.amazon.com/Lucious-Left-Foot-Chico-Dusty/dp/B003FGWSL0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1278414474&sr=8-1









THE CAT EMPIRE- CINEMA
http://www.amazon.com/Cinema-Cat-Empire/dp/B003P6PWAO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1278414533&sr=1-1














BRET MICHAELS- CUSTOM BUILT
http://www.amazon.com/Custom-Built-Bret-Michaels/dp/B003NAQ6ZM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1278414592&sr=1-1







KYLIE MINOGUE- APHRODITE
http://www.amazon.com/Aphrodite-Kylie-Minogue/dp/B003IPC5SO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1278414619&sr=1-1

Todd On Monday : The 11-Voice Orchestra

Today's post isn't just for Todd Rundgren fans.

Let's start with a question--

Can you name your 5 favorite concerts of all time?

I'm sure it isn't easy, but off the top of my head, Elvis Costello's 5 nights on Broadway in 1986 still remain the most memorable for me. (I will elaborate on a future post, accompanied by audio highlights.)

Then there was this. Billed as Todd Rundgren & His 11 Voice Orchestra, TR took a show on the road to promote his oft-delayed and finally released 1985 album "A Cappella."

Here's Stephen Thomas Erlewine from AMG:

A Cappella was the end of the road, as far as Bearsville was concerned. Rundgren, who was already at odds with the label and had taken his Utopia elsewhere, had to struggle to get the label to release the record, and it didn't hit the shelves officially until Warner stepped in and negotiated him out of the contract. Perhaps Bearsville didn't want to release A Cappella because they perceived it to be too weird, too bizarre to cross over into the mainstream, which is true. However, that thread of logic ignores the fact that ever since 1973, Rundgren had positioned himself as a cult artist. He may have proven himself to be an enormously successful cult artist, one capable of landing the odd hit single every now and then, but he remained a cult artist precisely because he was willing to take risks like A Cappella, an album he created entirely with his voice. To some listeners, such a tactic seemed like a gimmick, which is a fair criticism, since the compositions themselves don't necessarily explore new ground (he even throws in the requisite novelties and covers). Then again, the production and the recording are precisely the point of A Cappella, and that's why it's such an involving listen. Many times, it's hard to believe that all of the sounds on the record originated from the same larynx, since each layer of the production is filled with astonishing details. Even more impressively, by forcing himself to use just his voice (albeit electronically processed), Rundgren has devised fresh, unexpected arrangements that enliven a set of solid but unrevelatory songs. That inventive spirit is enough to turn A Cappella into something unique and special.

Unlike recent live performances, Todd seemed focused, rehearsed and in a very good mood, using the voices to recreate the songs off the new record, as well as adding a new dimension to old favorites. As one friend put it, "It was the last time I felt the Todd intensity in concert."

The music here is not from NYC's Beacon Theatre, which is where I got to experience this incredible performance, but from an out of print, kind of official, Japanese release capturing the Dallas show from 10/31/85.

Erlewine's review is right on the money, though I'd like to add that songs like "Johnee Jingo," "Honest Work," the single "Something To Fall Back On," which should have been a monster hit, and the absolutely stunning "Pretending To Care" are some of the best of Rundgren's career.




DISC ONE

DISC TWO

Enjoy.

(And don't forget to check out "SELLING WOOD," the new blog for those who miss the thrill of the record store. Just click on my flaming face in the upper right hand corner.)

The Electric Mess- You've Become A Witch

In the words of Simels The Stupendous, over at the always-amazing POWER POP, "As you know, we like to occasionally feature something recorded in this century."

Here is what is currently my favorite thing ever...today. The Electric Mess have been tearing it up in NYC, bashing out some of the most exciting garage and psych music I've heard in years. What I love most about The Mess is that they can play. It may have been a novelty for those no- hit wonders back in the 60s to barely form the 2 and 3 chords needed to grind out a stomper. But these guys can play.

This video is a blast and the single is from their new record, "The Electric Mess," which I think you should buy RIGHT HERE.

"THE 4TH" : The Weekend Mix

This "Weekend Mix" just about created itself. I spent a lot of time walking over the last 3 days, so the iPod was in heavy use, always on shuffle, consistently surprising me.

Tracks 1-6 just happened, one after the other, and as it unfolded, I immediately thought, "This is getting posted." I don't quite know why these 6 songs fit together so perfectly, but I feel it. And I strongly suggest checking out the entire Cigar Store Indians' CD. (Thanks, Ty.)

I've included some recent favorites, including one of the strangest records I have ever heard, "He Makes Me So Mad" by The Hollywood Jills, (pay attention to that storyline,) and one of the cleverest, coolest and funnest covers I have ever heard, Gigi & the Charmaines' "Brazil. (Thanks, Jeff.)

The ol' iPod, or aPod, as I like to call it, also reminded me of the great Lewis Taylor. If his version of Jeff Buckley's "Everybody Here Wants You" doesn't make you melt, you need a defroster. (I recommend checking out Lewis' small back catalogue, especially his super-rare recreation of Beefheart's "Trout Mask Replica."

Happy 4th! Enjoy!

TRACK LIST

heart full of soul- the yardbirds
i think it's that girl- dwight twilley
love is dead- the godfathers
kisses in vain- cigar store indians
somebody stole my thunder- georgie fame
everybody here wants you- lewis taylor
brazil- gigi & the charmaines
yes sir, that's my baby- hale & the hushabyes
he makes me so mad- the hollywood jills
shaft strikes again- isaac hayes
piece of my heart- erma franklin
your time is gonna come- sandie shaw
bad girl pt. 1- lee moses
baby please don't go/green onions- mary flower
maybe this time- alice clark
american tune- allen toussaint & elvis costello

ZIP FILE