TV on the radio – Wolf like me


It’s funny how music can transform you to a different time and place. Sometimes even a different world. I first heard this a few days after moving to California from Belfast and found it very striking. Now every time I hear this I return to that time of my life. To feeling like that naive guy – full of fear and wonderment, exhilarated and out of my depth in equal measures.

Maybe that is the reason I am fond of this but the fact it is a snarling anthem both relentless and compelling also helps.

/RjK

The Drums – Let’s go surfing

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These guys rock. Their live show was probably one of my highlights of 2010. I don’t think I can do there energy justice. If you get the chance to see them – take it.

They have lots of great tunes but this was the first one that really grabbed me. They remind me a little of Joy Division by pulling off the neat trick of combining sombre lyrics and sprightly delivery.

Also, an enjoyable video – simple but effective.

Oasis – Slide Away


I have been listening to a song by Liam Gallagher’s new band  quite a bit this week. It seems he has retained his ability to belt out an anthemic tune. Oasis became something of a caricature of themselves towards the end, but that doesn’t diminish the fact that they released two staggering albums. The fact that Definitely Maybe and (What’s the story) Morning Glory? coincided with me really discovering music for the first time means I will always have a special appreciation for them.

I found it hard to believe that Slide Away was released in the summer of ‘94 but it has aged well. The combination of the towering guitar riff and Liam’s imploring vocal that makes it very compelling.

/RjK

Betty Wright – Shoorah Shoorah


I first heard this on the same cassette I discovered Move on up (see January 1st). It was some kind “best of funk” compilation and it was something of a revelation. I had never heard anything quite like it before.

I love the raucous horn section in this song to this day…

/RjK

Little Comets – Isles


Don’t know much about these guys other than I like this song. Their wikipedia page suggests they make “Kitchen sink indie” whatever that means!

It is a very enjoyable video containing some interesting imagery. Even if it mirrors the song’s rather grim lyrics – “The streets are bleak, the kids are running wild.” It must be depressing up north!

/RjK

Le Kid – Mercy Mercy


I was unsure whether to post this or not. In the end I went for it as I want this blog to be an accurate reflection of what I am currently listening to. Even if, without doubt, I will look back at this and cringe. And I have to (guiltily) admit that I have been listening to this today. A lot. It is just so damn infectious.

It is fun though. I was going to have to embrace my kitsch side sooner or later. And this is kitsch in spades. An added bonus is the video which is camp-tastic. The Pet Shop Boys would be proud of it!

Enjoy…

/RjK

Metronomy – She Wants


I don’t know much about these guys. I discovered them recently through the wonder of clicking on links suggested by youtube. Google’s search algorithm is all powerful.

I quite like this though, languid and smooth, the melody has inexorably wormed it’s way into my psyche.

/RjK