They're Playing Our Song: Recent Episodes
Robert Parry-Cruwys
Special guest, Diana Parry-Cruwys, finally gets another chance to pick a song of her very own with this week's "To Be Young (Is To Be Sad, Is To Be High) by alt-country, prolific rocker, Ryan Adams. Not the guy who sang "Summer of '69". We discuss how unlike My Bloody Valentine this song is, how hard it is to pick just one song when you write an album a year, how drugs are bad. Stay in school kids.
Please very much enjoy!
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Even though she's been our special guest more than anyone else, poor Diana Parry-Cruwys has only gotten to pick one song all on her own. Well, we're making up for it by talking about Ryan Adams' "To Be Young (Is To Be Sad, Is To Be High)" this week. Diana then fell asleep before we could record and I forgot to post the preview blurb...so we're going to be a little late this week. Please don't think this reflect poorly on how much I appreciate my wife's taste in music.
You can buy this alt-country ditty on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime!), or Google Play.
No official video, but I did find this bootleg, live version on YouTube which I liked for reasons that I'll get into on the show. Man, phone cameras have come a long way since I still had time for concerts.
And, for your literati out there, the lyrics:
"To Be Young (Is To Be Sad, Is To Be High)"*Young boy you done me bad I went and did ya wrong
Young boy you done me bad I went and did ya wrong
Then I got high Lord I got high and I got a bone to pick with you
And I'm sure you know its true
Oh one day when you're looking back
You were young and man you were sad
When you're young you get sad
When your young you get sad then you get high
Oh man
Young gal you done me bad and I went and did ya wrong
Young gal you done me bad so I went and did ya wrong
Then I got high
Lord I got high
Now you got a bone to pick with me but I wish you'd let me be
Oh one day when you're looking back
You were young and man you were sad
When you're young you get sad
When your young you get sad then you get high
You get high
Oh the days the rain would fall your way
Oh the days the rain would fall your way
Then you be high cause you got sad
Cause you got sad
Oh man*--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So, listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday + 1 (i.e.,Thursday) for the discussion.
A return visit from Jack Every to the TPOS studio gets us bringing the funk. Noise may be brought as well. Regardless, we spend a pleasant time talking about the amazing Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings' "I Learned the Hard Way". What makes this modern take on the Motown sound so cool? And does anybody know how to make a hang-up click on a cell phone? We're plumbing unknown genres this week, folks! Also, a rare TV recommendation unrelated to music but correlated with deliciousness.
Please very much enjoy!
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Returning guest and math teacher extrordinaire, Jack Every, returns to ensure the unrepresented genre of Motown gets its due by talking with us about Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings "I Learned the Hard Way", a song I had never heard of before last week. Which is reason enough to listen in.
You can buy "I Learned the Hard Way" on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime!), and Google Play.
There's an entertaining video covering the story of the song on YouTube:
And, of course, the lyrics:
"I Learned the Hard Way"Something told me insideThat your love was untrueSomething told me insideSomething told me inside
You said, "Girl, it's alrightI would never hurt you"You said, "Girl, it's alright"He said, "Girl, it's alright"
Just to be by your sideI would've walked through the flamesJust to be by your sideJust to be by your side
Now it hurts me insideJust to hear your nameJust to hear your name
I learned the hard wayThat your love is cruelI learned the hard way, babyNot to be your fool
I learned the hard wayI learned the hard way about youNow I know about youNow I know about you
When I open my eyesIt was all around meWhen I open my eyesWhen I open my eyes
Clouds of perfume and liesAnd a hotel keyClouds of perfume and liesClouds of perfume and lies
And when I answered your phoneI heard a gasp and a clickWhen I answered your phoneWhen I answered your phone
Ooh, was that wrong number, wrongOr was she after your love
Just to be by your sideI would walk through the flamesNow it hurts me insideJust to hear your name
I learned the hard wayThat your love is cruelI learned the hard way, babyNot to be your fool
I learned the hard wayI learned the hard way about youNow I know about youNow I know about you
Now I know about youNow I know about youNow I know about youNow I know about you
Just to be by your sideI would walk through the flamesNow it hurts me insideJust to hear your name
I learned the hard wayThat your love is cruelI learned the hard way, babyNot to be your fool
I learned the hard wayI learned the hard way, baby, about you
Now I know about you(Now I know about you)I know about you(Now I know about you)
Now I know about you(Now I know about you)Now I know about you(Now I know about you)
Now I know about you(Now I know about you)I won't be your fool(Now I know about you)
Listen, I know about you(Now I know about you)Your love(Now I know about you)
I wanna go home(Now I know about you)I know about you(Now I know about you)I said, "I wanna go home"
So listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for the discussion.
After comparing our local classic rock stations (RIP, radio), super-guest and music encyclopedia, Chris Hornbostel, and I get into the deep talk about The Rolling Stones' "Gimme Shelter". Buy why is it an amazing song? Not just because it captures the turmoil of the 60's, not just because it's a secretly scary song, not just because of Keith Richards blusey, jazzy guitar, not just because of Mick Jagger's excellent lyrics, not just because of Merry Clayton's virtuouso performance, not just because of Charlie Watts' perfect snare beats, but...well, listen to the episode to find out. Let's celebrate the end of the peace and love era together, shall we?
Please very much enjoy!
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Music super-afficianado, Chris Hornbostel is back to break down The Rolling Stone's epic reflection of the waning days of the age of Aquarius, "Gimme Shelter". It's an eerie episode, folks!
Almost everyone probably own's Let It Bleed, but, just in case you're only buying music features on the show, here are links to purchase "Gimme Shelter" at iTunes, Amazon Music (whole album free w/ Prime!), and Google Play.
For a little background on Merry Clayton, the distinct background singer in "Gimme Shelter", here's a clip from the film "20 Feet From Stardom":
And, if you want to see an era-appropriate Stones live performance of the song (minus Mrs. Clayton so...not quite perfect), here's a video:
And, of course, the lyrics:--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"Gimme Shelter"Oh, a storm is threat'ning
My very life today
If I don't get some shelter
Oh yeah, I'm gonna fade away
War, children, it's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
War, children, it's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
Ooh, see the fire is sweepin'
Our very street today
Burns like a red coal carpet
Mad bull lost your way
War, children, it's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
War, children, it's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
Rape, murder!
It's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
Rape, murder!
It's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
Rape, murder!
It's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
The floods is threat'ning
My very life today
Gimme, gimme shelter
Or I'm gonna fade away
War, children, it's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
I tell you love, sister, it's just a kiss away
It's just a kiss away
It's just a kiss away
It's just a kiss away
It's just a kiss away
Kiss away, kiss away--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So, listen, watch, read, and join us back here on Wednesday for the full discussion.
Rob's solo-casting it up this week with one of his personal favorite's, ELOs "Mr. Blue Sky". Listen in horror as he attempts to describe fancy orchestral words! Stare in sympathy as he consults his thesaurus to come up with new words for "awesome"! Flee from the overwhelming gushing of good vibes and joyousness! Feel happy emotions deep inside your soul as you realize that you've already started humming the chorus. Don't hide away for so long, listener: embrace the sun before Mr. Night comes to ruin the party.
Please very much enjoy!
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With the sun high in the sky and something of a drought on here in Massachusetts, I'm reminded of one of my favorite songs to blare out my car window on these beautiful summer days: ELO's "Mr. Blue Sky"! Honestly, this is one of the songs that I did this show to talk about. Hope you'll enjoy listening to me do just that.
You can buy "Mr. Blue Sky" on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime), or Google Play. It's free or 99 cents so I expect everyone to buy it.
Even though the song is almost 40 years old, ELO actually put together a video in 2012! Talk about longevity. Only downside: it features the re-recordings that Jeff Lynne created in the 2000s so it's a little different than the album version including missing the whole epilogue. Oh well!
For discussion context, here's the first place I ever heard this song: a Volkswagon commercial. It's some real Don Draper-level awesome.
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Mr. Blue Sky"
*Sun is shinin' in the sky,
There ain't a cloud in sight
It's stopped rainin'
Everybody's in a play
And don't you know
It's a beautiful new day.
Runnin' down the avenue,(Pant, Pant, Pant)
See how the sun shines brightly
In the city on the streets
Where once was pity,
Mr. Blue Sky is living here today.
[Chorus:]
Mr. Blue Sky, please tell us why,
You had to hide away
For so long where did we go wrong.
Hey there Mr. Blue
We're so pleased to be with you
Look around see what you do,
Everybody smiles at you.
Hey you with the pretty face,
Welcome to the human race
A celebration Mr. Blue Sky's
Up there waitin' and today
Is the day we've waited for
[Chorus]
Mr. Blue you did it right,
But soon comes Mr. Night,
Creepin' over, now his
Hand is on your shoulder,
Never mind I'll remember you this way.
[Chorus]*---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------So, listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for the full discussion.
Matt Summers makes a triumphant return with a song that has absolutely nothing wrong with it, The Breeders' "Cannonball". Is it true that the Ewoks provide backing vocals to Kim Deal? Is anything cooler than early-90s distortion effects? And is being a great band with an awesome single the same as being a one-hit wonder?
Have a swig of this delicious shimmy shake while you listen.
Please very much enjoy!
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All-star guest Matt Summers want to immortalize his love for The Breeders' '90s masterpiece, "Cannonball". So, I guess the best way to do that is to come on the show. Posterity will thank him for that. And, if the A.V. Club agrees with him, those crazy kids must be on to something.
You can find "Cannonball" on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime!!), or Google Play.
There's a totally rockin' 90s-era video to watch as well!
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Cannonball"*(Check check check
One, two
One, two)
Spitting in a wishing well
Blown to hell
Crash
On the last splash
I know you, little libertine
I know you're a real koo koo
(Hey now)
Want you
Koo koo
Cannonball
Want you
Koo koo
Cannonball
(Hey now)
In the shade
In the shade
(Hey now)
In the shade
In the shade
I know you, little libertine
I know you're a cannonball
I'll be your whatever you want
The bong in this reggae song
(Hey now)
In the shade
(Hey now)
In the shade
Want you
Koo koo
Cannonball
Want you
Koo koo
Cannonball
Spitting in a wishing well
Blown to hell
Crash
I'm the last splash
I'll be your whatever you want
The bong in this reggae song
(Hey
Hey now)
Want you
Koo koo
Cannonball
Want you
Koo koo
Cannonball
(Hey now)
In the shade
In the shade
(Hey now)
In the shade
In the shade.*--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So, listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for the full conversation.
While I messed up and forgot that "Imagine" was actually from the album Imagine, special guest, Terry Parretti, lifelong educator and dancer, forgives me in the name of John Lennon's message of peace, humanity, and love. We discuss what happens when we die and if it even matters, the power of music in teaching, and just how crummy the 70s were. Stay tuned until the end for some free choreography consultation.
Please very much enjoy!
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Given all the terrible goings-on in the world, we decided to slow things down a notch to discuss John Lennon's "Imagine" with educator and choreographer, Terry Parretti.
You probably already know this song, but, in case you don't, you can purchase it on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime!), and Google Play.
There's a classic video of John and Yoko to go along with the song. I picked the version on YouTube without an ad in front of it and in HD.
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Imagine"*Imagine there's no heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today... Aha-ah...
Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion, too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace... You...
You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one
Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world... You...
You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one*--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So, listen, watch, read, love, peace, harmony, and join us back here on Wednesday for the discussion.
This week we sip lemon gin with writer/comedian/nice person, Hunter Gardner. to celebrate the season with a discussion of "Almost Summer" by Jason Collett. We wonder why summer sounds so sad in this song, opine on the indignities of youthful intoxication, and embarrass each other with bad date stories. Our pants remain securely around our ankles.
Please very much enjoy
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Well, despite the fact that it's actually summer, let's just pretend that it isn't 80+ degrees out and all of our lawns are still alive with the bounty of spring rains. How about Hunter Gardner and I discuss Jason Collett's "Almost Summer" to get you in the right frame of mind.
You can find the song on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime!), and Google Play.
Here's a great clip that Hunter shared with me in which Jason Collett talks about this song in person:
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Almost Summer"Lemon gin, corn fields plowed under
Cigarettes, Southern ComfortWith your friends behind the bleachers, it's my first danceHe's gonna beat it in the high school gym
It's almost summer, almost warm enough to swim
Backyards are waiting
He's got your name, he's got your number
He's got your name, he's got your number
The sun sets across the parking lot
Walking cool with your friendsBefore the ready cops even know you're in the sandThe night is waiting
Here he comes, you're a little nervous
Here he comes, well, you're getting up the courage, yeah
The music sucks
But he's your salvationCherry lip gloss, and you're what he's tasting, yeahYeah, yeah, yeah
You're in his car getting high
Pair of fuzzy dice by the dashboard lightSuper toke, gets smoke in his eyesYour head is swimming with the anticipation and suddenly
You're puking out the door with your pants around your knees
But he's a nice boy so he drops you on your streetI can't believe itLooks like you blew it
He's got your name, he's got your number
He's driving away, I want to bomb her yeahYeah, yeah, yeah
So you stumble home
But you don't quite make itYou wake up on the lawnOf your next-door neighborsThe sun is warm
It's almost summer, yeah--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So, listen, watch, read, and join us Wednesday for the full episode.
Because they did me the favor of visiting me, I forced a good 40% of my extended family into the ol' podcast studio to discuss our favorite songs about America and the summertime, but mostly the summertime.
Hang ten and put your wayfarers on for a deep conversation on topics like what's the opposite of America, when's the best time to barbeque, is Dave Matthews music a substitute for Ambien, and just how awesome is a bottle of Zima? And in a They're Playing Our Song first: country music! Then a somber tangent about regret, past joys, and growing up as summer vacation hits the halfway point.
Please very much nostal-joy!
If you want to join us in thinking fondly about the songs we discussed, here's the final list:
"It Must Be Summer" by Fountains of Wayne (Rob's choice)
"Surfin' U.S.A." by The Beach Boys (Heejean's choice)
"Hot Fun In the Summertime" by Sly and the Family Stone (Brendon's choice)
"Summertime" by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince (Justin's choice)
"Heavy Metal Drummer" by Wilco (Diana's choice)
"Cold Beverage" by G. Love and Special Sauce (Jessica's choice)
"Summertime" by Kenny Chesney (Mike's choice)
"The Boys of Summer" by Don Henley (Sara's choice)
"Summersong" by The Decemberists (Rob's original summer choice)
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During our annual family 4th of July get together, I managed to wrangle about 50% of my relatives into my makeshift studio behind the grill to talk about favorite summer songs. From hip-hop to country, we discuss an eclectic mix of tunes that get us in the mood to relax at the beach and enjoy the heat. No links or lyrics this week due to the sheer number of songs we discussed. Just join us on Wednesday to hear our choices. And feel free to share your summer songs in the comments or on Twitter or the (poorly updated) Facebook page.
It's the big 50th episode of the show! And I booked a bunch of young children to make noise in the background. What better way to celebrate our house party than by talking about Grouplove's "Tongue Tied". Listen to me wax philosophically about the deep, deep meanings of the song and how it taps into our collective unconscious about how crappy it is to try to get a date. Everyone else just talks about medical problems and strategies for laser tag.
Thanks to everyone for listening and thanks to all our guests for sharing their songs! You all make this show a pleasure to do.
Hope you all very much enjoy our anniversary!
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After a fun family vacation, I drag my family in to celebrate our big 50th episode with Grouplove's "Tongue Tied"! How we got this many episodes I'll never know.
You can buy this song on Amazon Music and Google Play (where it's only 69 cents!!!). Here's the album link on iTunes...can't find a direct link for some reason. Maybe it's too awesome to be sold individually.
There's a pretty neat music video too:
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Tongue Tied"Take me to your best friend's house
*Go around this roundabout
Oh yeah
Take me to your best friend's house
I loved you then and I love you now
Oh yeah
Don't take me tongue tied
Don't wave no goodbye
Don't...
Right!
Take me to your best friend's house
Marmalade we're making out
Oh yeah
Take me to your best friend's house
I loved you then and I love you now
Don't take me tongue tied
Don't wave no goodbye
Don't...
Right!
One, two, three, four
Don't leave me tongue tied
Let's stay up all night
I'll get real high
Slumber party; pillow fight
My eyes on your eyes
Like Peter Pan up in the sky
My best friend's house tonight
Let's bump the beats till beddy-bye
Don't take me tongue tied
Don't wave no goodbye
Don't take me tongue tied
Don't kiss me goodnight
Don't...
Take me to your best friend's house
Go around this roundabout
Oh yeah
Take me to your best friend's house
I loved you then and I love you now
[2x]
Don't leave me tongue tied
Don't wave no goodbye
Don't leave me tongue tied
Don't...*--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So, listen, watch, and join us on Wednesday for the big, celebratory episode!
Due to the extra awesomeness of my family vacation, no new episode this week.
Tune in next week for the big 50th episode!
It's Part 2 of the epic battle royale that is ETHERIDGE-OFF!! This week, I'm rejoined by Diana Parry-Cruwys who hopes to derail my assertion that the most superior song is Melissa Etheridge's "I Want To Come Over". We break all our concert plans to warble a passionate plea for all the star-crossed lovers out there before explaining the secret meanings of the too happy guitar-solo and why are is so damn sad. Remember, place your vote for Etheridge-Off on Twitter, Facebook, or in the comments below.
Please very much enjoy!
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It's Part 2 of the epic Etheridge-Off. Diana Parry-Cruwys and I can't come to a consensus as to which Melissa Etheridge song is the superior "I'm kind of stalking you" anthem. Last week we went over Diana's choice, "Come To My Window" so this week, it's my choice with "I Want To Come Over".
You can get "I Want To Come Over" on iTunes, Amazon Music, or Google Play.
There's a cool video starring Gwyneth Paltrow on YouTube for your viewing pleasure as well.
And, of course, the lyrics:
"I Want To Come Over" I know you're home
You left your light on
You know I'm here
The night is thin
I know you're alone
I watched the car leave
Your lover is gone
Let me in
Open your back door
I just need to touch you once more
I want to come over
To hell with the consequence
You told me you loved me
That's all I believe
I want to come over
It's a need I can't explain
To see you again
I want to come over
I know your friend
You told her about me
She filled you with fear
Some kind of sin
How can you turn
Denying the fire
Lover I burn
Let me in
Open your back door
I just need to touch you once more
I want to come over
To hell with the consequence
You told me you loved me
That's all I believe
I want to come over
It's a need I can't explain
To see you again
I want to come over
I know you're confused
I know that you're shaken
You think we'll be lost
Once we begin
I know you're weak
I know that you want me
Lover don't speak
Let me in
I want to come over
To hell with the consequence
You told me you loved me
That's all I believe
I want to come over
It's a need I can't explain
To see you again
I want to come over
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for the continuation of this knock-down, drag-out battle!
It's Part 1 of the first ever ETHERIDGE-OFF!! Which song about intense love by singer/songwriter Melissa Etheridge will be crowned the ultimate our song? Join Diana Parry-Cruwys and I in a knock-down, drag-out verbal brawl where the only rule is there are no rules. Except for the rule where we only get to say nice things about the songs we discuss because that's the point of the show. I'm starting to think this whole fight conceit isn't going to result in as much screaming and body slams as I was originally led to believe.
In any case, this week Diana and I go to war over the merits of "Come To My Window". We strike on all fronts in reviewing the crazy performance of Juliette Lewis, my description of the way major chords sound, and the extra-voluminous locks of Melissa Etheridge's beautiful beautiful hair. We may have forgotten to talk about the song now that I think about it.
Please very much enjoy!
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On a recent drive with Diana Parry-Cruwys, we got into a bit of a discussion about which is the superior Melissa Etheridge "I'm kind of stalking somebody" song: "Come To My Window" or "I Want To Come Over". As we couldn't agree, we decided to take it to the podcast for our first ever Etheridge-Off. Over the next two episodes, we'll break down the pros of each one and leave it up to you, the listener, which goes to the top of our playlist. This week we'll start with Diana's song, "Come To My Window"
You can get "Come To My Window" on iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play.
There's a rather well-received video for the song as well starring Juliette Lewis:
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Come To My Window"
Come to my windowCrawl inside, wait by the lightof the moonCome to my windowI'll be home soon
I would dial the numbersJust to listen to your breathI would stand inside my hellAnd hold the hand of deathYou don't know how far I'd goTo ease this precious acheYou don't know how much I'd giveOr how much I can take
Just to reach youJust to reach youJust to reach you
Come to my windowCrawl inside, wait by the lightof the moonCome to my windowI'll be home soon
Keeping my eyes openI cannot afford to sleepGiving away promisesI know that I can't keepNothing fills the blacknessThat has seeped into my chestI need you in my bloodI am forsaking all the restJust to reach youJust to reach youOh to reach you
Come to my windowCrawl inside, wait by the lightof the moonCome to my windowI'll be home soon
I don't care what they thinkI don't care what they sayWhat do they know about thislove anyway
Come to my windowCrawl inside, wait by the lightof the moonCome to my windowI'll be home soon
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So, listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for the ultimate battle royale!!
This week I'm going solo to talk about Against Me!'s "Thrash Unreal". Because no one but me demanded it! Is this really a song about the joy of partying hard? Or is it a cry for help? And what kind of genre is "polk"? Please very much enjoy!
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Nobody seems to want to talk to me about Against Me's "Thrash Unreal", so I'm going solo to share my thoughts on this grand song. At least, in my opinion.
If you'd like to hear the song, you can find it on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime!), and Google Play.
There's an official music video to check out.
And, since much of this song is all about the lyrics, here they are!
"Thrash Unreal"*If she wants to dance and drink all night, well there’s no one that can stop her.
She’s going until the house lights come up or her stomach spills onto the floor.
This night is gonna end when we’re damn well ready for it to be over.
Worked all week long now the music is playing on our time.
We do what we do to get by, and then we need a release.
You get mixed up with the wrong guys.
You get messed up on the wrong drugs.
Sometimes the party takes you places that you didn’t really plan on going.
When people see the track marks on her arms she knows what they’re thinking.
She keeps on working for that minimum,
as if a high school education gave you any other options, you know.
They don’t know nothing about redemption.
They don’t know nothing about recovery.
Some people just aren't the type for marriage and family.
No mother ever dreams that her daughters going to grow up to be a junkie.
No mother ever dreams that her daughters going to grow up to sleep alone.
[x2]
She’s out of step with the style.
She don’t know where the actions happening.
You know the downtown club scene ain't nothing like it used to be.
You reach a point where there’s not a lie in the world
that you could use to make the boys believe you're still in you twenties.
But they keep getting younger, don't they baby?
She’s not waiting for someone to come over and ask for the privilege.
She can still hear that Rebel Yell just as loud as it was in 1983, you know.
There ain't no Johnny coming home to share a bed with her and she doesn’t care.
No mother ever dreams that her daughters going to grow up to be a junkie.
No mother ever dreams that her daughters going to grow up to sleep alone.
[x2]
No mother ever dreams that her daughters going to grow up to be a junkie.
And if she had to live it all over again you know she wouldn’t change anything for the world.*
So, listen, watch, read, and join us next week for the discussion.
Writer Gordon Cameron doesn't mess around when it comes to sharing the most beautiful song in the world with Schubert's "Du Bist die Ruh". We put on our top hats and tails to discuss this classic lieder including whether Schubert could front as a modern pop star, whether the lyrics to the original poem are kind of lame without Schubert's music, and how your pianissimo gets into my fortissimo.
Please very much enjoy!
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Writer Gordon Cameron joins us on a trip into the Wayback Machine to talk about one of the most beautiful songs, Schubert's "Du Bist die Ruh". What are the odds we'd do two Schubert songs on this show?
You can get the song on iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play. I've linked one of the versions we talked most about, sung by Ian Bostridge. Don't know who he is, but, boy, can he sing!
There's a version on YouTube as well for your enjoyment.
And, of course, the lyrics in German and English
Du Bist die RuhDu bist die Ruh, You are the calm,
Der Friede mild, The restful peace:
Die Sehnsucht du You are my longing and
Und was sie stillt. what makes it cease.Ich weihe dir With passion and pain
Voll Lust und Schmerz To you I give
Zur Wohnung hier My eye and heart
Mein Aug und Herz. Are yours to live.Kehr ein bei mir, Enter here and close
Und schliesse du Quietly behind you
Still hinter dir the gates of your
Die Pforten zu. Gentle embrace.Treib andern Schmerz All other grief
Aus dieser Brust! You dispel from my breast:
Voll sei dies Herz My heart swells
Von deiner Lust. With the love of you.Dies Augenzelt Your brightness alone
Von deinem Glanz Lights the canopy of my eyes
Allein erhellt, Oh, fill it fully!
0 füll es ganz! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------So listen, read, and join us on Wednesday for the full discussion.
The best value on the Internet returns as special guest, Jack Every, and I give you a 1000% markup when talking about The White Stripes' "Fell In Love With a Girl". We two stalwart educators debate the true meaning of a mellow roll, decry the injustice that was music in 2001, and mix whatever they can remember from undergrad psychology into the expounding of their deep thoughts about a three-minute song. Subscribe on YouTube to see this episode built entirely out of Lego.
Please very much enjoy!
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This week we're listening to a three-minute song that's just chock full of rock 'n roll as Jack Every joins me to talk The White Stripes' "Fell In Love with a Girl".
You can purchase this rock gem on iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play.
The video is almost as important as the song so be sure to check that out:
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Fell In Love With A Girl"*Fell in love with a girl
fell in love once and almost completely
she's in love with the world
but sometimes these feelings
can be so misleading
she turns and says are you alright?
I said I must be fine cause my heart's still beating
come and kiss me by the riverside,
bobby says it's fine he don't consider it cheating
Red hair with a curl
mellow roll for the flavor
and the eyes were 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
my left brain knows that
all love is fleeting
she's just looking for something new
and I said it once before
but it bears repeating
Can't think of anything to do
my left brain knows that
all love is fleeting
she's just looking for something new
and I said it once before
but it bears repeating
Fell in love with a girl
fell in love once and almost completely
she's in love with the world
but sometimes these feelings
can be so misleading
she turns and says are you alright?
I said I must be fine cause my heart's still beating
come and kiss me by the riverside,
bobby says it's fine he don't consider it cheating
Can't think of anything to do
my left brain knows that
all love is fleeting
she's just looking for something new
and I said it once before
but it bears repeating*
So listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for the full discussion.
Cor, blimey, gov'ner. It's the end of hip-hop month and we close out with a personal fav of mine, "Fit But You Know It" by the Streets. Special guest, Diana Parry-Cruwys, tries to remember where she first heard this song while I quiz her on the finer points of British slang. All in time for tea with the Queen. And fish and chips. And Doctor Who.
Pardon Diana's audio. Someone set the microphone wrong. Probably Danger Mouse or Thomas the Train. Odds bodkins.
Please very much enjoy!
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And, thus, hip hop month comes to an end with a discussion of The Streets' "Fit But You Know It". It's British rap which makes it extra classy!
If you'd like to listen to the song before the show, pick it up on iTunes, Amazon Music, or Google Play.
And/or check out the official video:
Since it might be hard for folks to understand Mike Skinner's accent, we also have the lyrics.
Fit But You Know It*[intro]
Excuse me girl
I know it's a bit embarrassing but
I just noticed some tan lines
On your shirt
See I reckon you're about an 8 or a 9,
Maybe even 9 and a half in four beers time.
That blue top shop top you've got on IS nice,
Bit too much fake tan though - but yeah you score high.
But there's just one little thing that really really,
Really really annoying me about you you see,
Yeah yeah like I said you are really fit
But my gosh don't you just know it
I'm not trying to pull you
Even though I would like to
I think you are really fit
You're fit But my gosh don't you know it
So when I looked at you standing there with your hoard,
I was waiting in the queue looking at the board
Wondering whether to have a Burger or chips
Or what the shrapnel in my back pocket could afford
When I noticed out the corner of my eye
Looking toward my direction
Your eyes locked onto my course
I couldn't concentrate on what I wanted to order,
Which cost me my place in the queue I waited for YEAH
I'm not trying to pull you
Even though I would like to
I think you are really fit
You're fit but my gosh don't you know it
Whoa! Leave it out
Are you smoking crack or something?
Leave it Out
Mike just leave it just leave it
We cannot have that behaviour in this establishment
S'not worth it mike, just leave it
Don't Touch Me, S'not Worth It
Don't Touch Me, D, Look I'm Alright
Don't Touch me
For a while there I was thinking - yeah but what if?
Picturing myself pulling with bare white hot wit
Snaring you as you were standing there opposite
Whether or not you knew it I swear you didn't tick
And when that bloke in the white behind us lot queuing
Was clocking onto you too yeah I had to admit
That yeah yeah you are fit,
And yeah I do want it,
But I stop sharking for a minute to get chips and drinks
I'm not trying to pull you
Even though I would like to
I think you are really fit
You're fit But my gosh don't you know it
Now, I bashed my head hard earlier choosing a brew.
But I am digressing slightly so I'll continue.
I didn't want to bowl over all geezer and rude,
Not rude like good but just rude like uncouth,
You girls think you can just flirt and it comes to you,
But let me tell you, see, yes, yes, but you are really rude,
And rude as in good, I knew this as you stood and queued,
But I just did not want to give the satisfaction to you!
I'm not trying to pull you
Even though I would like to
I think you are really fit
You're fit But my gosh don't you know it
Oy, just as you started to make your big advance
With the milkshake and that little donut in hand
I was like nah, I can't, even though you look grand
But you look sharp there smiling hard suggesting and
Gleaming away with your hearty hearty looking tan
But I admit the next bit was spanner to my plan
You walked towards my path but just brushed right past
And into the arms of that fucking white shirted man
I'm not trying to pull you
Even though I would like to
I think you are really fit
You're fit But my gosh don't you know it
What do I give a fuck.. I've got a girlfirend anyway
(whoa, we've all had a drink mate)
We're all a bit drunk, yeah we've had a few fair play
I got this stella I bombed from that last café
This nights not even begun, yes yes oh yay
I did fancy you a bit though yeah I must say
I would rather I hadn't mugged myself on display
But this is just another case of female stopping play
On otherwise a total result of a holiday
I'm not trying to pull you
Even though I would like to
I think you are really fit
You're fit But my gosh don't you know it
[outro]
Ha ha huh huh huh
You're fit but you know it
You're fit but you know it
You're fit but you know it
I think I'm going to fall over
I think I'm going to fall
Fucking hell*
So, listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for the full episode.
Hey, everyone. Due to some poor planning on my part, I wasn't able to book a guest or even prepare a solo episode for you all. So, sadly, we'll be taking this week off to do some catch-up. If you're really jonesing for the sound of my voice, check out ABA Inside Track, a podcast about applied behavior analysis. It's just like songs!
Who better to discuss Public Enemy's "Burn Hollywood Burn" than one of my favorite movie critics? Christien Murawski from the Qt3 Movie Podcast stops by to share his love of Chuck D's sweet, sweet voice and to spark up a conversation about race in TV and film. Is the Hollywood of 2016 doing a better job representing non-whites in movies than in 1990? And what exactly would a "good job" even look like? All this plus a seeeeecret movie recommendation from Christien. And it's not Steel Magnolias.LISTENER NOTE: We discuss explicit lyrics explicitly in this one so your personal discretion is advised.Please very much enjoy!And please enjoy listening to more of Christien on his show, the Quarter to Three Movie Podcast. If you cannot see the audio controls, your browser does not support the audio element
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Hip-hop month continues with a song from one of the greatest hip-hop acts of all time: Public Enemy. I've enlisted the help of someone who knows the cinema, Christien Murawski from the Quarter to Three Movie Podcast, to discuss "Burn Hollywood Burn". Heads up for our younger listeners: Some explicit rap lyrics after the jump.
You can pick up the song on iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play.
While it's a bit fuzzy, there is an official music video. For you purists out there, just beware that it uses a longer version of the song that starts to repeat itself at the end. Not quite as good as the album cut, in my opinion.
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Burn Hollywood Burn"*[CHUCK D:]
Burn Hollywood burn I smell a riot
Goin' on first they're guilty now they're gone
Yeah I'll check out a movie
But it'll take a Black one to move me
Get me the hell away from this TV
All this news and views are beneath me
Cause all I hear about is shots ringin' out
So I rather kick some slang out
All right fellas let's go hand out
Hollywood or would they not
Make us all look bad like I know they had
But some things I'll never forget yeah
So step and fetch this shit
For all the years we looked like clowns
The joke is over smell the smoke from all around
Burn Hollywood burn
[ICE CUBE:]
Ice Cube is down with the PE
Now every single bitch wanna see me
Big Daddy is smooth word to muther
Let's check out a flick that exploits the color
Roamin' thru Hollywood late at night
Red and blue lights what a common sight
Pulled to the curb gettin' played like a sucker
Don't fight the power ... the mother fucker
[BIG DADDY KANE:]
As I walk the streets of Hollywood Boulevard
Thinin' how hard it was to those that starred
In the movies portrayin' the roles
Of butlers and maids slaves and hoes
Many intelligent Black men seemed to look uncivilized
When on the screen
Like a guess I figure you to play some jigaboo
On the plantation, what else can a nigger do
And Black women in this profession
As for playin' a lawyer, out of the question
For what they play Aunt Jemima is the perfect term
Even if now she got a perm
So let's make our own movies like Spike Lee
Cause the roles being offered don't strike me
There's nothing that the Black man could use to earn
Burn Hollywood burn*
So listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for the discussion.
Veteran rap battler and NCIS aficionado, Brandon Cackowski-Schnell, joins us for another episode in our hip-hop month with the classic "Mama Said Knock You Out" by LL Cool J. We'll discuss how to properly put on deodorant, what clothes to wear--or not to wear--to rock out at your live performance, and just how much damage (HUNH!) one song can really do. Bonus: Brandon offers up his cool, new Bazooka Joe-inspired rhymes for the audience. Don't forget, you can sample this show for free...just get us a walk-on in the music video.
Please very much enjoy!
And please also enjoy Brandon's podcast, Jumping the Shark. A great choice if you want to hear about video games and other funny nonsense.
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Hip-hop month continues with the classic Golden Age rap song "Mama Said Knock You Out" by LL Cool J. Brandon Cackowski-Schnell from the Jumping the Shark podcast demands we listen to the sweaty, live version because it rocks so hard. And that's how we roll.
Since this is the live performance from Yo MTV Raps! Unplugged, there's no link to purchase the song (well, you can get the studio version on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime!), and Google Play if you really want to).
However, we do have footage of the actual performance!
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Mama Said Knock You Out"*[LL]
C'mon man
[News Report]
And with the local DBT news, LL Cool J with a triumphant comeback
[mumbling]
but tonite...
[LL]
Don't call it a comeback
I been here for years
Rockin my peers and puttin suckas in fear
Makin the tears rain down like a MON-soon
Listen to the bass go BOOM
Explosion, overpowerin
Over the competition, I'm towerin
Wreckin shop, when I drop these lyrics that'll make you call the cops
Don't you dare stare, you betta move
Don't ever compare
Me to the rest that'll all get sliced and diced
Competition's payin the price
[Chorus:]
I'm gonna knock you out (HUUUH!!!)
Mama said knock you out (HUUUH!!!)
[REPEAT 4X]
Don't u call this a regular jam
I'm gonna rock this land
I'm gonna take this itty bitty world by storm
And I'm just gettin warm
Just like Muhummad Ali they called him Cassius
Watch me bash this beat like a skull
Cuz u know I had beef wit
Why do u riff with me, the maniac psycho
And when I pull out my jammy get ready cuz it might go
BLAAAAW, how ya like me now?
The river will not allow
U to get with, Mr. Smith, dont riff
Listen to my gear shift
I'm blastin, outlastin
Kinda like Shaft, so u could say I'm shaftin
Old English filled my mind
And I came up with a funky rhyme
[Chorus]
[LL]
Breakdown!!!
Shadow boxin when I heard you on the radio (HUUUH!!!)
I just don't know
What made you forget that I was raw?
But now I got a new tour
I'm goin insane, startin the hurricane, releasin pain
Lettin you know that you can't gain, I maintain
Unless ya say my name
Rippin, killin
Diggin and drillin a hole
Pass the Ol' Gold
[Chorus]
Shotgun blasts are heard
When I rip and kill, at WILL
The man of the hour, tower of power, I'll devour
I'm gonna tie you up and let you understand
that I'm not your average man
when I got a jammy in my hand
DAAAAAM!!!!! Oooooohh!!
Listen to the way I slaaaaay, your crew
Damage (UHH) damage (UHH) damage (UHH) damage
Destruction, terror, and mayhem
Pass me a sissy so suckas I'll slay him
Farmers (What!!!) Farmers (What!!!)
I'm ready (we're ready!!!)
I think I'm gonna bomb a town (get down!!)
Don't u neva, eva, pull my lever
Cuz I explode
And my nine is easy to load
I gotta thank God
Cuz he gave me the strength to rock
HARD!! knock you out, mama said knock you out
[Chorus]*
So listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for the discussion.
It's the beginning of Hip Hop month, a month of songs I know very little about. So let's learn some new things together! We kick things off with returning guest, Mark Brillon, talking about Krayzie Bone's "Thug Mentality". Mark reviews the history of Bone Thugs 'n Harmony and declares his love for the song. I think he even has a copy of the 8-track recording in his pocket. I struggle to understand the difference between East, West, North, and South-coast rap. Everyone agrees that rap skits aren't really funny but appreciate the artists trying to branch out to improv.NOTE: Audio is a bit distant sounding as I failed to put the right settings on my microphone. As I am smart.Please very much enjoy!
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It's the start of hip hop month! A month of talking about songs that prove I have no idea what I'm talking about when it comes to hip hop. We start things of with returning Star Wars-aficionado, Mark Brillon, and Krazyie Bone's "Thug Mentality" from Thug Mentality 1999.
To listen, you'll have to find a copy of the CD or you can watch the cinematic music video:
And, for you literate types, the lyrics:
"Thug Mentality"
(feat. Bone-Thugs)*[Chorus]
T-H-U-G we be, that's thug mentality
we thuggin, thuggin thuggin
that's the way I chose to live my life
T-H-U-G we be, that's thug mentality
we thuggin, thuggin thuggin
thuggin till the day I die
T-H-U-G we be, that's thug mentality
we thuggin, thuggin thuggin
that's the way I chose to live my life
T-H-U-G we be, that's thug mentality
we thuggin, thuggin thuggin
thuggin till the day I die
I done been around da world and everywhere be da same song
niggas struggle daily, gotta survive, its worldwide
even niggas in Paris n London be hustlin doin whatever to get the money
Looking at the whole big wide world ??? mighty thugs ???
But you gotta keep it real if you wanna make it, do ???
And make a ??? kids
Gotta handle your business, gotta get in it to win it
And then you gotta get up out of there baby
And that's real, really, my thugs feel me
put your fists up in the air, yeah
Nigga comin' to the war and I'm a meet you niggas there
Ready to rumble, and I swear, we're comin' from everywhere
Where my thugs at? Where they at? Fuck that!
Nigga let's do in the enemy now
Terminate, eliminate 'em, I'm takin' out the frustration on the world
Get 'em back for the playa hation
So come on we gotta roll, and wouldn't you know?
They ain't ready for the war, pop the ??? get arrested
To the po-po, you in total control,
make 'em feel the pain in two-double-oh-oh
It's the end of the road, so what you gon' do?
I'm a ride till we die, if you want to, (run too)
Would all them real soldiers, come on move
Get your suits on, boots on, keep troopin' on
T-H-U-G, U-G, that's what we be, across the nation
Pump your fists and get ready for this occasion
Think you'd better fade on, Bone wanna see victory
Y'all niggas better roll with this
Cause we splittin' 'em, fuck that, we winnin', that's thug mentality
[Chorus]
Be a thug, if you wanna be a thug, be a thug if you got to
Throw it up, keep it in the air, scream it out
Thug, thug, thug, thug, thuggin' till the day I die
When I'm high if you look into my eyes, you'll truly find
No kind like I, Gemini, and it controls both sides
My Lord he law, maintain, hard cause I'm a soldier at war
Steady runnin' with the weapons cause it still ain't gettin' better
Figured it out, it's all real, and if it ain't then it ain't right
Come on, if you wanna feel the thug love
And it's real, we got the real thing baby
I hate to burn you, learn you, stay out of it if it don't concern you
You don't really wanna get involved with the murder
But shit, if you want it, you got it, we bring it, it don't stop
We gon' pop shots still to the double glock-glock
Never takin' no shorts, no losses mayn
Yes, these days it's still the same like, gotta make that money, mayn
Bang, gotta get down for my thang, and I do it so smooth
When I'm stalkin' gatt fools, walkin jack moves
And I'm on the run widda me shotgun, but a ??? it's on
Ya'll can't fuck with the thuggish ruggish, ruggish
bone, bone, bone bone bone - that's thug mentality
[Chorus]
Where my Detroit thugs, thugs
Cincinatti thugs, thugs
Where my Columbus thugs, thugs
My Chicago thugs, thugs
Where the fuck my New York thugs, thugs
Where the fuck my Texas thugs, thugs
My Kansas City thugs, thugs
Where my Milwaukee thugs, thugs
My Colorado thugs, thugs
Where my St. Louis thugs, thugs
Where my Atlanta thugs, thugs
My Alabama thugs, thugs
My New Orleans thugs, thugs
Where my Miami thugs, thugs
Where my Jamaican thugs, thugs
My California thugs, thugs
My Arizona thugs, thugs
My New Mexico thugs, thugs
My Puerto Rico thugs, thugs
Thuggin', thuggin', thuggin', thuggin', thuggin'
Cleveland's... definitely... in the house
In the house, in the house*
So listen, watch, read, and come back on Wednesday for the full episode.
This week Diana Parry-Cruwys and I are putting on our army jackets and taking the heroes journey into the urban wasteland to discuss The Dandy Warhol's "Bohemian Like You". Let's get the "ooo"s out of the way: Is this song still totally awesome? Kick your significant other to the couch, grab some vegan food, and listen to us nonchalantly care, or not care, about the pros and cons of hipster doofuses and just how much of a privileged, right-wing nutjob Rob really is.
Don't forget to listen to Diana and me talk behavior analysis on our new show, ABA Inside Track. See what looking pretty cool will getcha?
Please very much enjoy!
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This week we're talking about a song featuring my favorite trope: "ooo"s in the chorus! I've bribed/cajoled Diana Parry-Cruwys to chat for a little while about the Dandy Warhols' "Bohemian Like You". Did you know we once saw these guys play while Diana and I were on a date? I hope this is new info, or you've been stalking us.
You can find this song on iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play.
For you visual learners, the video:
And for our lyrics hounds:
"Bohemian Like You"
You got a great carYeah, what's wrong with it today?I used to have one too,Maybe I'll come and have a look.I really loveyour hairdo, yeahI'm glad you like mine too,See what looking pretty cool will get ya?So, what do you do?Oh yeah, I wait tables too.No, I haven't heard your band,'Cause you guys are pretty new.But if you dig on vegan foodWell come over to my workI'll have them cook youSomething that you'll really love.'cause I like youyeah I like youand I'm feeling so bohemian like youYeah I like you yeah I like you.And I feel whoa ho wooOoh ooh oohOoh ooh oohOoh ooh oohOoh ooh oohWaitWhose that guyJust hanging at your padHe's looking kinda bummedYeah, you broke up, thats too bad.I guess it's fair if he always pays the rentAnd he doesn't get bentabout sleeping on the couch when I'm there.'Cause I like youyeah I like youAnd I'm feeling so bohemian like youYeah I like youYeah I like youAnd I feel whoa ho woo!Ooh ooh oohOoh ooh oohOoh ooh oohI'm getting wise andI'm feeling so bohemian like youIt's you that I want, so pleaseJust a casual, casual easy thingIs it?it is for meAnd I like you yeah I like youand I like you I like you I like youI like you I like you I like youI like you and I feelWhoa ho woo!Ooh ooh oohOoh ooh oohOoh ooh oohOoh ooh ooh
So listen, watch, read, and come back for the discussion on Wednesday.
This week's song, "A Change of Seasons" by Dream Theater, is our longest yet at just over 20 minutes. Fortunately, special guest, Craig Miller, challenges that run time by sharing his in-depth thoughts on the band's history, their place in the greater metal oeuvre, and just how many movements it takes to describe the cycle of life and death. All that plus Rob learns that metal artists don't just write songs about demons and magic and that not all of them are scary men who want to hurt him.
Pardon for the audio drop outs at times. Perfect storm of wireless internet shenanigans as Craig tries to keep from waking up his son in a different room and I brilliantly hide my wireless extender under a coat. Think it still came out pretty darn good.
Please very much enjoy!
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We're opening the curtain on this metal episode with Dream Theater's "A Change of Seasons" with special guest, Craig Miller. Boom. See what I did there with the opening and the theater metaphor? That's just a taste of how great this episode is going to be.
You can pick this one up on iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play. It's a looong song so you'll be getting your money's worth.
No official video, but here's a cool live version:
And, for a 20-minute long song, you're going to want the lyrics:
"A Change of Seasons"
*[Music by Dream Theater]
[Lyrics by Mike Portnoy]
[I. The Crimson Sunrise]
[Instrumental]
[II. Innocence]
I remember a time
My frail, virgin mind
Watched the crimson sunrise
Imagined what it might find
Life was filled with wonder
I felt the warm wind blow
I must explore the boundaries
Transcend the depth of winter's snow
Innocence caressing me
I never felt so young before
There was so much life in me
Still I longed to search for more
But those days are gone now
Changed like a leaf on a tree
Blown away forever
Into the cool autumn breeze
The snow has now fallen
And my sun's not so bright
I struggle to hold on
With the last of my might
In my den of inequity
Viciousness and subtlety
Struggle to ease the pain
Struggle to find the same
Ignorance surrounding me
I've never been so filled with fear
All my life's been drained from me
The end is drawing near...
[III. Carpe Diem]
"Carpe diem
Seize the day"
I'll always remember
The chill of November
The news of the fall
The sounds in the hall
The clock on the wall
Ticking away
"Seize the Day"
I heard him say
Life will not always be this way
Look around
Hear the sounds
Cherish your life
While you're still around
("Gather ye rosebuds while ye may)
(Old Time is still a-flying;)
(And this same flower that smiles today)
(Tomorrow will be dying")
We can learn
From the past
But those days
Are gone
We can hope
For the future
But there might not be one
The words stuck in my mind
Alive from what I've learned
I have to seize the day
To home I returned
Preparing for her flight
I held with all my might
Fearing my deepest fright
She walked into the night
She turned for one last look
She looked me in the eye
I said, "I Love You...
Good-bye"
("It's the most awful thing you'll ever hear")
("If you're lying to me...")
("Oh, you dearly love her")
("...just have to leave...)
(All our lives")
("Seize the day!")
("Something happened")
("Gather ye rosebuds while ye may")
("She was killed")
[IV. The Darkest Of Winters]
[Instrumental]
[V. Another World]
So far or so it seems
All is lost
With nothing fulfilled
Off the pages and the
T.V. screen
Another world
Where nothing's true
Tripping through
The life fantastic
Lose a step
And never get up
Left alone
With a cold blank stare
I feel like giving up
I was blinded by a paradise
Utopia high in the sky
A dream that only drowned me
Deep in sorrow, wondering why
Oh come let us adore him
Abuse and then ignore him
No matter what
Don't let him be
Let's feed upon his misery
Then string him up for all the world to see
I'm sick of all
Your hypocrites
Holding me at bay
And I don't need
Your sympathy
To get me through the day
Seasons change and so can I
Hold on Boy
No time to cry
Untie these strings
I'm climbing down
I won't let them push me away
Oh come let us adore him
Abuse and then ignore him
No matter what
Don't let him be
Let's feed upon
His misery
Now it's time for them
To deal with me
[VI. The Inevitable Summer]
[Instrumental]
[VII. The Crimson Sunset]
I'm much wiser now
A lifetime of memories
Run through my head
They taught me how
For better or worse
Alive or dead
I realize
There's no turning back
Life goes on
The offbeaten track
I sit down with my son
Set to see the Crimson Sunset
(Gather ye rosebuds while ye may)
Many years have come and gone
I've lived my life, but now must move on
(Gather ye rosebuds while ye may)
He's my only one
Now that my time has come
Now that my life is done
We look into the sun
"Seize the day
And don't you cry
Now it's time
To say good-bye
Even though
I'll be gone
I will live on
Live on"*
So listen, watch, read, and come back on Wednesday for the full discussion.
This week we kick some teeth in talking about the Dead Kennedys' "Riot". Special guest Matt Summers and I flagrantly violate the law--noise ordinances, mostly--to break down the steps of rioting in your neighborhood, punk-rock suing your former bandmates, and appreciating the muscianship of the Dead Kennedys. All this and poetry!
Please very much enjoy!
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We're going punk with this week's episode, discussing The Dead Kennedy's "Riot". Don't get too angry and break anything while you wait for me and special guest, Matt Summers, to toss our molotov cocktails of conversation through your earbuds.
You can download "Riot" on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime, though it's a live version, not the original studio cut), or Google Play.
No official video, but here's something to reflect the craziness of early 80's punk shows, even if you can't really hear the song.
And, of course, the lyrics:
"Riot"*Rioting-the unbeatable high
Adrenalin shoots your nerves to the sky
Everyone knows this town is gonna blow
And it's all gonna blow right now:.
Now you can smash all the windows that you want
All you really need are some friends and a rock
Throwing a brick never felt so damn good
Smash more glass
Scream with a laugh
And wallow with the crowds
Watch them kicking peoples' ass
But you get to the place
Where the real slavedrivers live
It's walled off by the riot squad
Aiming guns right at your head
So you turn right around
And play right into their hands
And set your own neighbourhood
Burning to the ground instead
[Chorus]
Riot-the unbeatable high
Riot-shoots your nerves to the sky
Riot-playing into their hands
Tomorrow you're homeless
Tonight it's a blast
Get your kicks in quick
They're callin' the national guard
Now could be your only chance
To torch a police car
Climb the roof, kick the siren in
And jump and yelp for joy
Quickly-dive back in the crowd
Slip away, now don't get caught
Let's loot the spiffy hi-fi store
Grab as much as you can hold
Pray your full arms don't fall off
Here comes the owner with a gun
[Chorus]
The barricades spring up from nowhere
Cops in helmets line the lines
Shotguns prod into your bellies
The trigger fingers want an excuse
Now
The raging mob has lost its nerve
There's more of us but who goes first
No one dares to cross the line
The cops know that they've won
It's all over but not quite
The pigs have just begun to fight
They club your heads, kick your teeth
Police can riot all that they please
[Chorus]
Tomorrow you're homeless
Tonight it's a blast*
So, listen, watch, read, and come back this Wednesday for our next episode.
In honor of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Professor Aaron Cain joins us to literally school me on the aria "Es Ist Vollbracht" from J.S. Bach's St. John Passion. And he brings his own materials! Aaron does his best to share his knowledge of early music, Bach's grumpy, beer-related missives, and one of the best personal anecdotes about a song ever heard on this show. Rob ends the term with an "F" for German pronunciation and must make up the work this summer. Luckily, you're all getting an "A" for "awesomeness"!
Please very much enjoy!
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Christien Murawski from the Quarter to Three Movie Podcast gives "Pitseleh" two thumbs up. Except that's not really how they rate things on the show. And they usually rate movies, not songs. Anyhoo, we dive deep into the poetry of this one to discuss the intermingling of love and fear, the strange relationship between ourselves and our favorite artists, and every emotion in between. Plus a bonus movie review of "Keeping the Faith" and a fabulous tangent into Fountains of Wayne territory.
Please very much enjoy!
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Because this is the podcast you probably most associate with religion, we have an episode to complement the upcoming Easter holiday as we discuss the aria "Es Ist Vollbracht" from the St. John Passion by J.S. Bach.
My special guest, Aaron Cain, was kind enough to provide an Mp3 of the Portland Baroque Orchestra performing this piece for our audience. He even checked with the members including featured viola da gamba soloist, Joanna Blendulf, and countertenor, Matthew White, for permission so you can download and listen without fear of legal recourse. Thanks, Aaron and the Portland Baroque Orchestra!
If you cannot see the audio controls, your browser does not support the audio element
If you need a visual, YouTube has a nice clip of the performance as well.
And, with the original German and the English translation, the lyrics:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Es Ist VolbrachtAria AltoViolino I/II, Viola, Viola da gamba sola, ContinuoEs ist vollbracht!It is accomplished ! O Trost vor die gekränkten Seelen!What comfort for all suffering souls! Die TrauernachtThe night of sorrow Läßt nun die letzte Stunde zählen.now reaches its final hours. Der Held aus Juda siegt mit MachtThe hero from Judah triumphs in his might Und schließt den Kampf.and brings the strife to an end. Es ist vollbracht!It is accomplished!---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So listen, watch, read, and join us back here Wednesday for the full episode.
Here's the sad, penultimate chapter of Robruary in which I talk, alone, about Death Cab for Cutie's "A Lack of Color" and how it made me the man I am today. There will be tragedy. There will be heartache. There will be copious moments of sad-sackery. I solemnly swear that this episode is well within the FDA limits of wracking man-sobs. Barely within the limits.Please very much enjoy!
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This week I'm joined by Christien Murawski from the Quarter to Three Movie Podcast to discuss Elliot Smith's haunting "Pitseleh" Special bonus: Christien gives us a mini-review of the Edward Norton/Ben Stiller movie, "Keeping the Faith". Trust him: it has to do with the song.
You can prepare for the discussion by downloading "Pitseleh" on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime), and Google Play.
No official video for "Pitseleh", but here's some footage from a live show that really captures what I imagine Elliot Smith often felt like playing in front of people.
"Pitseleh"*I'll tell you why I don't want to know where you are
I got a joke I've been dying to tell you
The silent kid is looking down the barrel
To make the noise that I kept so quiet
I kept it from you, pitseleh
I'm not what's missing from your life now
I could never be the puzzle pieces
They say that god makes problems just to see what you can stand
Before you do as the devil pleases
And give up the thing you love
But no one deserves it
The first time I saw you, I knew it would never last
I'm not half what I wish I was
I'm so angry, I don't think it'll ever pass
And I was bad news for you, just because
I never meant to hurt you*-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------So listen, watch, read, and come back Wednesday for the latest fun-filled episode. Except, Elliot Smith, so the fun is kind of inherently sad.
So, what are we talking about this week, special guest Chris Hornbostel? "Last Day That We're Young?" by Game Theory? Could you please recount the fascinating story of how this album came to be, break down the musical arrangement and mastering process that makes the song so excellent, and then drop an awesomely prescient interpretation of the lyrics whilst tying them into a personal theme of aging, life, and death? Ok, thanks. I'll be over here looking up "opalescent".
Please very much enjoy!
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This week we're back to the interesting stuff: awesome guests talking about their favorite songs. And, to start us back, a song (and a band) that I did not even know existed. But that's exactly what special guest, Chris Hornbostel, brings to the table with "Last Day That We're Young" by Game Theory.
So, get ahead of the cool kid curve by purchasing "Last Day That We're Young" on iTunes, Amazon Music, or Google Play.
No video, but it looks like the music man was good enough to provide a legit version on YouTube:
And for those of your lyrics-readers (and you REALLY need to read these lyrics):
"Last Day That We're Young"
Adds up a shame to leave it so unresolvedShakes all the sheathing loose from the wireTime's going to be a luxury now in the responsibility empireSo give me some false hope I can take seriouslySet me some road blocks I can't break throughAnd watch what I'll risk to get what I wantI think too much I always doNo changing your sideNo thinking it's time to start things overNo favors deniedNo, not on the last day that we're youngHang up the faces, Lon Chaney, your day's gone'Cause each one is one less chance you can winNo one can get behind what they all sayAnd so you lose before you beginWhat was it we were always wanting?Didn't we know we had it all?Show me some tear-eyed beauty that disappearsEvery time I might happen alongOpalesque, eye-lined, owning the dayWhen it comes I'll have been proven wrongNo changing your sideNo thinking it's time to start things overNo favors deniedNo, not on the last day that we're youngNo changing your sideNo thinking it's time to start things overNo favors deniedNo, not on the last day that we're youngWhat was it we were always wanting?Didn't we know we had it all?So listen, watch, read, and come back on Wednesday to join in the discussion.
And so another Robruary has come and gone. But not before I drag my poor wife, Diana, into the studio to talk about "Big Sur" by the Thrills. I share my heartfelt memories of how this song represented one of the happiest periods of my life. Diana just wants to talk about the Monkees. Spot on musical renditions ensue.
Please very much enjoy!
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And, thus, Robruary comes to a close. We're all a bit older, a bit wiser. And by "all", I mean just me. "But what happened to you after college, Rob?" you might be asking yourself, kind listener. Thanks for asking, I very much appreciate that you care so very much. To tell you, you'd need to listen to a little song by The Thrills called "Big Sur"
You can listen to it on iTunes, Amazon Music, or Google Play.
Or you can watch the music video here:
And the lyrics, of course:
"Big Sur"*So much for the city
Tell me that you'll dance to the end
Just tell me that you'll dance to the end
Hey, hey you're the monkees
People said you monkeyed around
But nobody's listening now
Just don't go back to Big Sur
Hangin' around, lettin' your old man down
Just don't go back to Big Sur
Baby baby please don't go
So much for the street lights
They're never gonna guide you home
No they're never gonna guide you home
Down at the steam boat show,
All the kids start spittin'
I guess it didn't live up to the billing.
Just don't go back to Big Sur
Hangin' around, lettin' your old man down
Just don't go back to Big Sur
Baby baby please don't go*---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------So, listen, watch, read, and join us this Wednesday for the conclusion of Robruary.
If "What's My Age Again?" represents the beginning of my college years then "A Lack of Color" by Death Cab For Cutie represents the end of college. So, it's sad and filled with the fun, transitional pain of becoming an adult. It's a real humdinger!
If you'd like to get ready for the new episode, you can grab "Lack of Color" on iTunes, Amazon Music (free w/ Prime), and Google Play.
There's no official music video, but Barsuk Records released a demo version of the Transatlanticism album and, while this version isn't the one that I've grown to love, it is pretty beautiful in its own right.
And for you readers among us, the lyrics:
"Lack of Color"
*And when i see you
I really see you upside down
But my brain knows better
It picks you up and turns you around
Turns you around, turns you around
If you feel discouraged
That there's a lack of color here
Please don't worry lover
It's really bursting at the seams
For absorbing everything
The spectrum's a to z
This is fact not fiction
For the first time in years
all the girls in every girlie magazine
Can't make me feel any less alone
I'm reaching for the phone
To call at 7:03 [and] on your machine I slur a plea for you to come home
But i know it's too late
I should have given you a reason to stay
Given you a reason to stay [x3]
This is fact not fiction
For the first time in years*---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------So, listen, watch, read, think, and join us on Wednesday for Part 3 of Robruary: A Lack of Color.
It's the final of the "I'm Recording In a Car" trilogy with special guest, Brendon and special song, Blink-182's "What's My Age Again?" Much like the Star Wars prequels, this episode comes first chronologically and has a lot of terrible CG effects. It also features the next chapter of Robruary in which a college-aged Rob finds Blink-182 depressing--not depressing depressing--Brendon opines his lack of blankets in the cold New England nights, and everybody has more fun. MORE FUN!!!
Please very much enjoy!
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Robruary continues with the pop-punk classic "What's My Age Again?" by Blink-182. Can't you just hear the melody already?
If not, why not download the song at iTunes, Amazon Music, or Google Play?There's a hilarious video too.Not much to the lyrics (at first glance), but here they are:"What's My Age Again?"
*I took her out. It was a Friday night
I wore cologne to get the feeling right
We started making out, and she took off my pants
But then I turned on the TV
And that's about the time she walked away from me
Nobody likes you when you're 23
And are still more amused by TV shows
What the hell is ADD?
My friends say I should act my age
What's my age again?
What's my age again?
Then later on, on the drive home
I called her mom from a pay phone
I said I was the cops, and your husband's in jail
This state looks down on sodomy
And that's about the time that bitch hung up on me
Nobody likes you when you're 23
And are still more amused by prank phone calls
What the hell is Call ID?
My friends say I should act my age
What's my age again?
What's my age again?
And that's about the time she walked away from me
Nobody likes you when you're 23
And you still act like you're in freshman year
What the hell is wrong with me?
My friends say I should act my age
What's my age again?
What's my age again?
That's about the time that she broke up with me
No one should take themselves so seriously
With many years ahead to fall in line
Why would you wish that on me?
I never wanna act my age
What's my age again?
What's my age again?
What's my age again?So, listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for Part 3 of Robruary*!
Robruary goes big with writer, Tom Chick, joining me to share his thoughts on "Where Is My Mind?". You won't believe your ears as we discuss our mutual love of "Fight Club", how much Tom and Black Francis have in common, subliminal genitals, and the eternal question: what happens to our pee during outdoor music festivals? You're listening to this episode at a very strange time in my life.
Remember to check out Tom's site, Quarter To Three and be sure to donate to their movie podcast fund drive and vote for the crew to watch "The Goonies". It's a great way to support their awesome work and a simple way to get a birthday gift for me!
Please very much enjoy!
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It's a birthday present come early for me as writer, Tom Chick, joins me to discuss his favorite song, The Pixies' "Where Is My Mind?" If you're at all interested in amazing writing about games and movies, check out Quarter To Three.
Perhaps you should read a nice article there while listening to this week's song. You can find it on iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play.
No music video, but enjoy this 1988 live version of the band in action.
And, for the readers out there, some lyrics:
"Where Is My Mind"
*Oh - stop
With your feet on the air and your head on the ground
Try this trick and spin it, yeah
Your head will collapse
But there's nothing in it
And you'll ask yourself
Where is my mind? [3x]
Way out in the water
See it swimmin'
I was swimmin' in the Caribbean
Animals were hiding behind the rock
Except the little fish
But they told me, he swears
Tryin' to talk to me, to me, to me.
Where is my mind? [3x]
Way out in the water
See it swimmin'
With your feet on the air and your head on the ground
Try this trick and spin it, yeah
Your head will collapse
If there's nothing in it
And you'll ask yourself
Where is my mind? [3x]
Way out in the water
See it swimmin'
Oh
With your feet on the air and your head on the ground
Oh
Try this trick and spin it, yeah
Oh
Oh*So, listen, watch, read (and read), and join us on Wednesday for an epic episode!
Barring show tunes "Jagged Little Pill" by Alanis Morisette was the first CD I ever owned. I received it as a birthday present when I was 16. Finally, I could listen to Ironic, Head Over Feet, and You Oughta Know from the comfort of my own home.
This week Carolyn Brillon stops by over Skype to share her thoughts about You Oughta Know because it's the only tune that rocks as hard as Robruary. We review the pros and cons of scratching other people's backs, if it's worth going down on a sticky movie theater floor to retrieve candy, and a whole bunch of other shenanigans that kept us up past bedtime.
Please very much enjoy!
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It's February which means my birthday is coming up soon. So, to celebrate, we're going to take a month-long autobiographical journey into music: I'm calling it Robruary...because I suck. We're starting with Alanis Morisette's "You Oughta Know". If you were alive in the 90's you've heard this song a billion times.
In case you missed one of those billion, feel free to download it on iTunes, on Amazon Music, or on Google Play.
Hey, check out the grunge-era filter on the video below.
For you readers out there, the lyrics:
"You Oughta Know"
*I want you to know, that I'm happy for you
I wish nothing but the best for you both
An older version of me
Is she perverted like me
Would she go down on you in a theatre
Does she speak eloquently
And would she have your baby
I'm sure she'd make a really excellent mother
'cause the love that you gave that we made wasn't able
To make it enough for you to be open wide, no
And every time you speak her name
Does she know how you told me you'd hold me
Until you died, till you died
But you're still alive
And I'm here to remind you
Of the mess you left when you went away
It's not fair to deny me
Of the cross I bear that you gave to me
You, you, you oughta know
You seem very well, things look peaceful
I'm not quite as well, I thought you should know
Did you forget about me Mr. Duplicity
I hate to bug you in the middle of dinner
It was a slap in the face how quickly I was replaced
Are you thinking of me when you fuck her?
'cause the love that you gave that we made wasn't able
To make it enough for you to be open wide, no
And every time you speak her name
Does she know how you told me you'd hold me
Until you died, til you died
But you're still alive
And I'm here to remind you
Of the mess you left when you went away
It's not fair to deny me
Of the cross I bear that you gave to me
You, you, you oughta know
'cause the joke that you laid on the bed that was me
And I'm not gonna fade
As soon as you close your eyes and you know it
And every time I scratch my nails down someone else's back
I hope you feel it...well can you feel it
Well, I'm here to remind you
Of the mess you left when you went away
It's not fair to deny me
Of the cross I bear that you gave to me
You, you, you oughta know*So, listen, watch, read, and join us back here on Wednesday for a brand new episode.
In remembering the passing of David Bowie, I kept coming back to his first big hit, Space Oddity. So, that's what we're talking about this week.
While I'm sure you already know the song, you can always brush up on the melody by buying it on iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play.
While there are a bunch of live versions and covers on YouTube, I chose this version of the song from the promotional film "Love You til Tuesday". It is not at all the version that you know but is adorable nonetheless.
As always, here are the lyrics to the song:
"Space Oddity"*Ground Control to Major Tom
Ground Control to Major Tom
Take your protein pills
and put your helmet on
Ground Control to Major Tom
Commencing countdown,
engines on
Check ignition
and may God's love be with you
[spoken]
Ten, Nine, Eight, Seven, Six, Five, Four, Three, Two, One, Liftoff
This is Ground Control
to Major Tom
You've really made the grade
And the papers want to know whose shirts you wear
Now it's time to leave the capsule
if you dare
This is Major Tom to Ground Control
I'm stepping through the door
And I'm floating
in a most peculiar way
And the stars look very different today
For here
Am I sitting in a tin can
Far above the world
Planet Earth is blue
And there's nothing I can do
Though I'm past
one hundred thousand miles
I'm feeling very still
And I think my spaceship knows which way to go
Tell my wife I love her very much
she knows
Ground Control to Major Tom
Your circuit's dead,
there's something wrong
Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Can you....
Here am I floating
round my tin can
Far above the Moon
Planet Earth is blue
And there's nothing I can do.*So listen, watch, read, and join us again on Wednesday for the next episode.
This is not the most touching tribute to icon and rock star, David Bowie. It might not even be the best discussion of Space Oddity in the past week. But it is the only podcast that:
a) is taped in a car with special guest Brendon
b) features songs from "Labyrinth"
and c) has a twist ending that everyone will be talking about Wednesday morning
Please very much enjoy!
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Take a pleasant car ride with me and special guest Brendon as we travel the information superhighway of our minds to discuss "A Girl Worth Fighting For" from the Disney film Mulan. You may notice you're also on a literal car ride with us as we recorded this on an actual superhighway. The government hasn't taken away our right as Americans to podcast and drive yet. Vote beef, pork, chicken in 2016!
Please very much enjoy!
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We're going full Disney this week with the most show-tuny tune of the modern-animation era, "A Girl Worth Fighting For" from Mulan. Find out the secret that has made this the ultimate in Disney songs in the Parry-Cruwys household that the government doesn't want you to know!
You can get the song on iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play.
And I even found a clip from the movie:
Here are the lyrics that correspond to the music above.
"A Girl Worth Fighting For"Army:For a long time, we've been marching off to battle
Yao:In our thund'ring herd,We feel a lot like cattle
Army:Like the pounding beat,Our aching feet aren't easy to ignore
Ling:Hey, think of insteadA girl worth fighting for
Mulan:Huh?
Ling:That's what I said: a girl worth fighting forI want her paler than the moonWith eyes that shine like stars
Yao:My girl will marvel at my strength, adore my battle scars
Chien Po:I couldn't care less what she'll wear or what she looks likeIt all depends on what she cooks likeBeef, pork, chicken...Mmm...
Yao:Bet the local girls thought you were quite the charmer
Ling:And I'll bet the ladies love a man in armor
Army:You can guess what we have missed the most since we went off to war
Ling:What do we want?
Army:A girl worth fighting for
Yao:My girl will think I have no faults
Chien Po:That I'm a major find
Mulan:How 'bout a girl who's got a brainWho always speaks her mind?
Yao, Ling and Chien Po:Nah!
Ling:My manly ways and turn of phrase are sure to thrill her
Yao:He thinks he's such a lady killer
Chi Fu:I've a girl back home who's unlike any other
Yao:Yeah, the only girl who'd love him is his mother
Army:But when we come home in victory they'll line up at the door
Ling:What do we want?
Army:A girl worth fighting for
Ling:Wish that I had
All:A girl worth fighting forA girl worth fighting-
So, listen, watch, read, and join us on Wednesday for our salute to gender issues!
Here's an episode for all you lovebirds out there featuring newlyweds Mark and Carolyn Brillon. We discuss why their first dance was to Vanessa Carlton's "Home", how Vanessa Carlton does a curtain call without a curtain, and who does the best impression of playing piano on a truck. Please be sure to get up and dance as the episode ends. And don't tell me you're driving...it's no excuse for lack of dancing.Please very much enjoy!
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We finally come to the end of our Songs About Love series with newlyweds Carolyn and Mark Brillon sharing about their wedding song, Vanessa Carlton's "Home". It's a sweet, sweet episode; much hugging is had. Perhaps you'd like to listen in too?
You can pick up the song at Amazon Music or Google Play. iTunes is broken as a write this. I could link it later, but, no, let this be a lesson to Apple to fix their service for the pre-eminent music podcast with "They're" and "Playing" and "Song" in the title.
No official video for the song, but here's some footage of Vanessa playing the song in nearby Natick, Massachusetts.
And now, the lyrics:
"Home"
*Some people live in a house on the hill
And wish they were some place else
There's nobody there
When the evening is still
Secrets with no one to tell
Some I have known have a ship where they sleep with sounds of rocks on the coast
They sail over oceans five fathoms deep
But can't find what they want the most
Even now when I'm alone
I've always known with you
I am home
Some live in towns
Cardboard shack on concrete
All bluster and bustling life
They search for the color you can never quite see
Cause it's all white on white
Even now when I'm alone
I've always known with you
I am home
[repeat]
For me it's a glance and the smile on your face the touch of your hands,
And an honest embrace
For where I lay it's you I keep,
This changing world I fall asleep
With you all I know is I'm coming home,
Coming home*So, listen, watch, read, and tune in on Wednesday for the thrilling (and months-late) conclusion!
Rob talks to himself about comparing current New York to baseline New York and whether LCD Soundsystem's James Murphy is reporting accurate data. Everyone who listens to this podcast gets a participation trophy!
Please very much enjoy!
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Who is "Free Fallin'"? Hopefully special guest Diana Parry-Cruwys knows because I sure didn't. We discuss the timelessness of Tom Petty's rock and roll, the horror of day-glo spandex, and our detailed business plans for licensing snappy jingles. Anyone in the market for some free trawlin'?
Please very much enjoy!
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With the triumphant blaring of a Gungan choir, we bring you this: a discussion of Duel of the Fates from The Phantom Menace. Mark Brillon returns with his Star Wars cred in tow to regale us with the power of John Williams' bombast while Rob regales us with stories of defeating his kids in fake lightsaber duels. If only they knew the power of the Dark Side.
Remember to come back on Friday for a BONUS Star Wars episode!
Please very much enjoy!
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I grab the mic to preach the gospel of Yub Nub (a.k.a. Ewok Celebration) while special guest Mark Brillon has to choose which Ewok is his favorite. Will it be Wicket? Chief Chirpa? Logray? The answer will forever be out of your grasp as we don't actually talk about that this episode. But we do make our Star Wars VII predictions about cameos we'd love to see.
So, please very much enjoy this bonus episode as you wait in line for Star Wars: The Force Awakens and remember to share the gospel of Yub Nub with your friends and loved ones.
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Bringing everyone together for the holidays is a Christmas tradition. So that's what we did for this week's podcast. Join me, Diana, Jackie, Matt, and two new guests, Brendon (last name withheld) and Heejean Parry. We enjoy a round table discussion of our favorite Christmas songs while reminiscing about Home Alone and Paul McCartney. And maybe, if we're all very good, Santa can bring me a second microphone and a mixer for Christmas.
Please very much enjoy!
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While walking home on a snowy evening, you stop to catch your breath. It's hard to see with such strong gusts of wind and you fear that you have become lost. Your curse yourself for trying this shortcut through the woods and brusquely rub your tingly fingers, desperate to regain some feeling in them.
As you wonder whether you should continue on to your family's home to celebrate Christmas or surrender to your panicked mind and rush back to your lonely, one-bedroom apartment, you hear a sweet melody coming from the trees. You head towards the siren call of music and, walking into a small clearing, you find yourself staring at a cozy little cabin. Peering into the windows you see a warm fire; seated in an opulent computer chair is a dashingly handsome man wearing a fine set of headphones and speaking into a silver microphone.
On the verge of collapsing into a snow drift, you grasp the small, brass handle, open the door, and enter the cabin...
(Special thanks to Bob Mackey at Retronauts for the cabin in the woods idea).
Please very much enjoy!
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Happy New Year! As part of a summary of how I used their service, Amazon sent me a nice email telling me my most played song of the year (from the Prime Library). I didn't really want to talk about that song, so I chose one of my 2nd most-played songs: "New York, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down" by LCD Soundsystem instead!
You can get this one for free on Amazon with Prime and for pay on iTunes and on Google Play.
If you search YouTube, you'll find some live footage of LCD Soundsystem singing the song (including their final Madison Square Garden performance), but I'm going from the album version so I can't say how different they'll be. Still, feel free to check that out. And now, the lyrics!
"New York, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down"
New York, I love youBut you're bringing me downNew York, I love youBut you're bringing me downLike a rat in a cagePulling minimum wageNew York, I love youBut you're bringing me downNew York, you're saferAnd you're wasting my timeOur records all showYou were filthy but fineBut they shuttered your storesWhen you opened the doorsTo the cops who were boredOnce they'd run out of crimeNew York, you're perfectOh please, don't change a thingYour mild billionaire mayor'sNow convinced he's a kingSo the boring collectI mean all disrespectIn the neighborhood barsI'd once dreamt I would drinkNew York, I love youBut you're freaking me outThere's a ton of "The Twist"But we're fresh out of "Shout!"Like a death in the hallThat you hear through your wallNew York, I love youBut you're freaking me outNew York, I love youBut you're bringing me downNew York, I love youBut you're bringing me downLike a death of the heartJesus, where do I start?But you're still the one poolWhere I'd happily drownAnd oh, take me off your mailing listFor kids who think it still existsYes, for those who think it still existsMaybe I'm wrongAnd maybe you're rightMaybe I'm wrongAnd maybe you're rightMaybe you're rightMaybe I'm wrongAnd just maybe you're rightAnd oh..Maybe mother told you trueAnd there'll always be somebody there for youAnd you'll never be aloneBut maybe she's wrongAnd maybe I'm rightAnd just maybe she's wrongMaybe she's wrongAnd maybe I'm rightAnd if so, here's this songSo listen, watch(?), read, and join us on Wednesday for the discussion.
It's Christmas Vacation! Everyone is home!
So, I'm doing this:
And this:
And this:And while I have a few episodes banked and lined up, I figured I'd take a week off after our four episodes in two weeks bonanza.
Hope you all have a Happy New Year! We'll be back to our normal Wednesday schedule next week.
Hope you enjoyed yesterday's episode. In case you were wondering what songs we were talking about, here's the list of our favorites:
Rob - Carol of the Bells as sung by a chorus of people
Diana - Fairytale of New York by The Pogues
Jackie - I'll Be Home For Christmas as sung by Bing Crosby
Heejean - O Holy Night as sung by Nat King Cole
Brendon - Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney
Matt - Last Christmas by Wham!
and, of course, Somewhere In My Memory by John Williams.
And don't forget to check the webiste or your podcast app for a special Christmas Day episode tomorrow. We're the gift that keeps on giving!
It's the most wonderful time of the year when Christmas songs can be found playing on every street corner. But which of these glad tiding tunes are our favorites? Join a cavalcade of thousands (or six) in sharing their favorite Christmas songs as we sit with a cup of egg nog by the ol' Tannenbaum.
Nothing to buy this week since you've probably heard all of these songs a dozen times on the radio in the past two days. Instead, just think long and hard about your favorite Christmas song...and realize we won't talk about it because you never told me! Oh, well, maybe next year. But, since we value your holiday spirit, here's Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas video!
See you on Wednesday!
Like a phoenix from the ashes, we resurrect the now non-canon Ewok Celebration or, as everyone else knows it, "Yub Nub". For those of you who didn't see or don't remember the 1983 theatrical release of Return of the Jedi, the film ended with a tribal melody by John Williams to emphasize the awesomeness of a party in the Ewok village. When re-released in theaters as the Special Edition in 1997, this scene was heavily edited including the removal of Ewok Celebration for the more somber Victory Celebration. Less fuzzy puppets chanting is not a good thing! You can read a bit more about the change here.
Well, I say that the updated version is non-canon. Long live Yub Nub!! And, for you, the loyal listeners, you can now download the original ending music to your hard drive where George Lucas can never find it. And hey, while you're at it, check out the actual scene from the movie. I still get chills every time I watch it. Interested in knowing what the Ewoks are saying? You can read the Ewok-ese lyrics below (check out Wookiepedia if you want to see the English translation) below the video player.
Thanks to Erwin Tang for offering to share his copy of Ewok Celebration. I managed to get it from my DVDs with some technological trickery, but anyone that friendly deserves a site visit.
Ewok Celebration (Yub Nub)*Yub nub, eee chop yub nub;
Ah toe meet toe peechee keene,
G'noop dock fling oh ah.
Yahwah, eee chop yahwah;
Ah toe meet toe peechee keene,
G'noop dock fling oh ah.
Coatee cha tu yub nub;
Coatee cha tu yahwah;
Coatee cha tu glowah;
Allay loo ta nuv.
Glowah, eee chop glowah;
Ya glowah pee chu nee foom,
Ah toot dee awe goon daa.
*Coatee cha tu goo; (Yub nub!)
Coatee cha tu doo; (Yahwah!)
Coatee cha tu too; (Ya chaa!)
Allay loo ta nuv,
Allay loo ta nuv,
Allay loo ta nuv.
Glowah, eee chop glowah.
Ya glowah pee chu nee foom
Ah toot dee awe goon daa.
- Coatee cha tu goo; (Yub nub!)
Coatee cha tu doo; (Yahwah!)
Coatee cha tu too; (Ya chaa!)
Allay loo ta nuv,
Allay loo ta nuv,
Allay loo ta nuv,
Allay loo ta nuv.*
So download the song, translate the lyrics, watch the clip, hug your favorite Ewok stuffed animal (Wicket for life, yo), share the file with a friend so Yub Nub lives on in perpituity, and join us tomorrow for a special bonus episode to celebrate the release of Star Wars - The Force Awakens.
With only a week until Star Wars - The Force Awakens releases in theaters, I thought it was time to revisit some of the great John Williams's score for the original six films. So, this week, we'll be discussing Duel of the Fates from Star Wars - The Phantom Menace. While the movie isn't held in particularly high regard, the song and the scene in which it is features certainly is.
You can pick up the song on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime!), and Google Play.
And, if you're interested in watching the clip (it's all instrumental so no lyrics), click down below to see a fabulous Lego version.
So, listen, watch, and join us this Wednesday to discuss Duel of the Fates!
Time for some Americana classics with Tom Petty's "Free Fallin" (sorry, no Heartbreakers). On the drive to Thanksgiving, as I subjected my family to hours of podcasts, we discovered that there was a new biography about Tom Petty. "Why haven't we done a Tom Petty song?" I said to no one in particular. After repeating myself multiple times, my wife chose "Free Fallin" to shut me up. And here we are with the magic happening!
Please listen to the song by picking it up on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime), or Google Play. Or just buy the whole greatest hits album, which is what I did. I was told we actually owned a real copy somewhere in our CD box in the garage. But it was worth the 10 bucks to avoid digging through that morass.
Below are the lyrics to the song and the music video.
"Free Fallin'"*She's a good girl, loves her mama
Loves Jesus and America too
She's a good girl, crazy 'bout Elvis
Loves horses and her boyfriend too
It's a long day livin' in Reseda
There's a freeway runnin' through the yard
And I'm a bad boy, 'cause I don't even miss her
I'm a bad boy for breakin' her heart
[Chorus:]
And I'm free, I'm free fallin'
All the vampires walkin' through the valley
Move west down Ventura Blvd.
And all the bad boys are standing in the shadows
All the good girls are home with broken hearts
[Chorus]
I wanna glide down over Mulholland
I wanna write her name in the sky
I wanna free fall out into nothin'
Gonna leave this world for awhile
[Chorus]*
So listen, watch, and read and come back to join us on Wednesday for the full episode.
We're dropping science this week with Carolyn Brillon (formerly Beaumier) as we discuss off-the-charts danceability of Martin Solveig and Dragonette's "Hello". While I calculate the jumps per minute of the song, Carolyn makes sure to provide hot tips about Family Ties and how to avoid hurting your knees on the dance floor.
Quick note: my audio cut out right at the intro so I left some extra music in there to note the break. The gold sounds you missed: Carolyn got married, is now Mrs. Mark Brillon (yes, from our previous, similarly awesome episode), and had a fantastic wedding in which everyone was constantly dancing. Oh, and "Hello" is from the 2011 album Smash. There, all caught up.
Please very much enjoy!
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It's time to get on the dance floor with this week's tune, "Hello" by Martin Solveig with Dragonette. Other than being the song I put away dishes to, it's an actual club tune that I first heard at an actual club. But let's save that story for the podcast.
You can listen to "Hello" by purchasing it on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime, just scroll down to track 1), or Google Play. There are like a million versions of this so I tried to link to the one that I listened to before recording the episode.
If you prefer visuals with your songs, here's the official music video as well as the lyrics. Watcher beware, the video is part of some sort of epic, multi-part series so the song is cut up a bit to match it.
"Hello"*I could stick around and get along with you
Hello
It doesn't really mean that I'm into you
Hello
You're alright but I'm here darling to enjoy the party
Don't get too excited 'cus that's all you get from me
Hey
Yeah I think you're cute but really you should know
I just came to say hello
Hello
Hello
Hello
I'm not the kinda girl who'd get messed up with you
Hello
Imma let you try to convince me to
Hello
It's alright I'm getting dizzy just enjoy the party
It's ok with me if you don't have that much to say
Hey
Kinda like this thing but there's something you should know
I just came to say hello
Hello
Hey
Hey
I could stick around and get along with you
Hello
It doesn't really mean that I'm into you
Hello
(I'm here darling to enjoy the party)
I just came to say hello
Hello
Hello
Hello
I'm not the kinda girl who'd get messed up with you
Hello
Imma let you try to convince me to
Hello
It's alright I'm getting dizzy just enjoy the party
It's ok with me if you don't have that much to say
Hey
Kinda like this thing but there's something you should know
I just came to say hello
Hey*So, listen, watch, read, and join us on back here on Wednesday with your best moves.
To all of our American listeners, hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with family and large portion sizes. For non-American listeners, today is Thanksgiving in America so please visit our country to join the stampede of shoppers looking for 4K TVs at midnight.
Jack E. posted a suggestion that we discuss "Alice's Restaurant Massacree" by Arlo Guthrie which is apparently a Thanksgiving song now. I didn't have time to fit in a full episode (maybe next year, Jack!). Strangely enough, I did actually do an oral report on the song as part of a project looking at protest songs of the Vietnam War. According to Mr. Guthrie the song isn't specifically an anti-war song either, but he seemed happy that it had become associated with Thanksgiving.
With that in mind, relax from eating turkey by checking out this video of Arlo Guthrie performing "Alice's Restaurant Massacree". It's even got footage from the movie!
Is it possible to decode the meanings of Radiohead songs without Wikipedia? I can't, but special guest, Matt Summers, sure can when we discuss "Lucky" off the seminal album, OK Computer. Matt shares his personal connection with the song and some great insight into the musical techniques of the band while I talk loudly about superheroes and what you'll find if you Google my name. It's what we in the biz call fair and balanced.
Please very much enjoy!
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This week we're talking about Radiohead's "Lucky" with special guest (and podcast fan!) Matt Summers. While we've delved into a number of 90's tracks, Radiohead is almost a musical entity unto itself so you'd better come prepared for this episode!
Take a listen on iTunes, Amazon Music, or Google Play, though I'm sure most of you already own the album, OK, Computer.
Here's what I believe to be the official video as well as the song lyrics. Please note, the video was originally released as part of a benefit album to raise funds and awareness for victims of the Bosnian War in the early 90s so there are some disturbing images throughout.
"Lucky"*
I'm on a roll, I'm on a roll
This time, I feel my luck could change
Kill me Sarah, kill me again with love
It's gonna be a glorious day
Pull me out of the aircrash
Pull me out of the lake
'Cause I'm your superhero
We are standing on the edge
The Head of State has called for me by name
But I don't have time for him
It's gonna be a glorious day
I feel my luck could change
Pull me out of the aircrash
Pull me out of the lake
'Cause I'm your superhero
We are standing on the edge
We are standing on the edge*So, listen, read, think, and join us back here on Wednesday for the full episode.
It's an epic discussion of all things Rock Band with Diana Parry-Cruwys and Brian Grady! We wear our video game reviewer hats to examine how playing crappy songs on plastic instruments makes everything better and how playing awesome songs with your friends is utterly transcendent. Is there one song to make our song? No! Hundreds of songs are yours for the taking, you just have to be ready to be the bass player.
Please very much enjoy!
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Bit of a break this week as we talk about the video game sensation "Rock Band". Though not the first "I can pretend to play music using a guitar/drum/microphone controller" game, it is arguably one of the best. And, with the release of "Rock Band 4" by Boston's own Harmonix Music Systems, I take some time to talk with fans of the game about their favorite tunes and the allure of playing fake, plastic instruments in a group holds.
As "Rock Band" contains hundreds of songs, we won't be focusing on any one tune so, instead read some background material on the game itself as well as some reviews of the latest iteration then come back on Wednesday for the show.
Our awesome guests return with their own favorite songs. This week, Brian Grady brings The National to our airwaves with their song "Conversation 16".
It's a real treat to hear new songs on this show, as much as a part of me wouldn't mind just forcing everyone to listen to my favorite tunes. Though, technically, I can't force anyone to listen to my show anyway so at least I get to learn about new stuff. Hopefully you feel the same and will join us on Wednesday.
You can get Conversation 16 on iTunes, on Amazon Music, or on Google Play. And here are some lyrics for your perusal.
"Conversation 16"***I think the kids are in trouble
Do not know what all the troubles are for
Give them ice for their fevers
You're the only thing I ever want anymore
We live on coffee and flowers
Try not to wonder what the weather will be
I figured out what we're missing
I tell you miserable things after you are asleep
Now we'll leave the silver city 'cause all the silver girls
Gave us black dreams
Leave the silver city 'cause all the silver girls
Everything means everything
It's a Hollywood summer
You'll never believe the shitty thoughts I think
Meet our friends out for dinner
When I said what I said I didn't mean anything
We belong in a movie
Try to hold it together 'til our friends are gone
We should swim in a fountain
Do not want to disappoint anyone
Now we'll leave the silver city 'cause all the silver girls
Gave us black dreams
Leave the silver city to all the silver girls
Everything means everything
I was afraid I'd eat your brains
I was afraid I'd eat your brains
'Cause I'm evil
'Cause I'm evil
I'm a confident liar
Have my head in the oven so you know where I'll be
I'll try to be more romantic
I want to believe in everything you believe
I was less than amazing
Do not know what all the troubles are for
Fall asleep in your branches
You're the only thing I ever want anymore
Now we'll leave the silver city 'cause all the silver girls
Gave us black dreams
Leave the silver city to all the silver girls
Everything means everything
I was afraid I'd eat your brains
I was afraid I'd eat your brains
'Cause I'm evil
'Cause I'm evil
'Cause I'm evil*
So listen, read, think, and come back on Wednesday for the full conversation!
Brian Grady joins us with a deep dive into The National's "Conversation 16". We seek the answers to those eternal questions like is a bad relationship compare to brain-eating, how many internal monologues does it take to find happiness, and, are we all really that evil? Fun bonus game: figure out where I edited out my terrible hacking coughs and you could win a pizza from Agostino's. I mean, you won't, so...
Please very much enjoy!
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Inspired by a true story about a boy, a girl, and a contractual obligation of their employer to allow them to stay home when ill and still get paid. It's Fountains of Wayne's "Sick Day"!
Please very much enjoy!
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Besides needing my voice for podcasting, I just super-love talking all the time. So losing my voice for a week+ has been just the worst. Coughing up phlegm like a consumption victim on Downton Abbey didn't help much either. It got so bad that I did, in fact, need to take a sick day to just sleep and recuperate. Which made me think of the Fountains of Wayne song, "Sick Day". While not even close to my favorite FOW song--that list is too long to discuss here--it certainly is topical. So, we have our episode, a little late and a little raspy. Fun fact: Diana and I once saw Fountains of Wayne at a show in Northampton get cut short due to lead singer Chris Collingwood having a case of laryngitis.
You can purchase the song on iTunes, Amazon Music, or Google Play. No official music video, but we do have a live version of the song from a Chicago show in 2009. Not quite the same as the album version though which is the one we'll be talking about.
Did I hear a request for lyrics?
"Sick Day"
*Check out the girl in the Harbor Tunnel
Crawling to work six feet under
And the day has barely begun
They're all chewing gum
And laughing at the voice on the crackling radio station
Lead us not into Penn Station
Cause the best part's just begun
We're all becoming one again
And she's making the scene
With the coffee and cream
And the copy machine's not working
She's a hell of a girl
She's alone in the world
And she likes to say hey good lookin'
She's on her way
She's taking a sick day..soon
And here is the man pushing paper past her
Thinks up ways to make the day go faster
But the day goes on and on
He dreams of his lawn
And all about
the pretty careerist
the next cube over
The fat secretary,
the lunchtime lovers
'Til the path train finally comes
The platform's full of bums again
And she's making the scene
With the coffee and cream
And the copy machine's not working
She's a hell of a girl
She's alone in the world
And she likes to say hey good lookin'
She's on her way
She's taking a sick day..soon
And she's taking her time
As she's tossing a dime
At the man in the cardboard coffin
It doesn't have to be fine
She's ahead of the line
And doesn't have to be here too often
She's making a play
She's taking a sick day..soon*So, listen, read, watch, think, and come back here on Friday (maybe Thursday? haven't you subscribed to the RSS feed or on iTunes yet?) for the discussion.
So, my voice is still shot. And I had to reschedule everybody to record later this week. So, I'm a bit behind. It did get me thinking of a song I'd like to talk about. Hopefully my voice will return enough to get something together a little later in the week. As long as I don't sound like the spirit of emphysema, I'll shoot for a Thursday release, just a little late. Perhaps some extra sleep and less talking will speed my recovery along.
We go full-on classical with this quick Halloween episode as we explore the dark, German woods in "Der Erlkönig". Just when did I even hear this song? Why is Der Erlkönig so obsessed with this kid? Can I fit more ghost-wails into the show? How did I get so many umlauts into my text? All this and more!
Please very much enjoy! OOOOOOOOOOO!
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We take a break before the conclusion of our love-centric episodes with a spooooky Halloween treat, "Der Erlkönig", with music by Franz Schubert and lyrics (i.e., the original poem) by Johann von Goethe.
You didn't really think we were going to do "Monster Mash" did you? This is classical music so there's no definitive version to listen to this week and I don't know how to transfer my old cassette tape version to digital. I found these two versions on YouTube, the first being a super-scary puppet/cut-out version with the second a real-life performance of the song.
Also included is the original poem, in both German and English (thanks Wikipedia!)."Der Erlkönig" (German w/ translation in bold text)Wer reitet so spät durch Nacht und Wind?Es ist der Vater mit seinem Kind;Er hat den Knaben wohl in dem Arm,Er faßt ihn sicher, er hält ihn warm.(Who rides, so late, through night and wind?
It is the father with his child.
He has the boy well in his arm
He holds him safely, he keeps him warm.)"Mein Sohn, was birgst du so bang dein Gesicht?" –"Siehst, Vater, du den Erlkönig nicht?Den Erlenkönig mit Kron und Schweif?" –"Mein Sohn, es ist ein Nebelstreif."("My son, why do you hide your face in fear?"*"Father, do you not see the Elfking?The Elfking with crown and cape?""My son, it's a streak of fog.")"Du liebes Kind, komm, geh mit mir!Gar schöne Spiele spiel' ich mit dir;Manch' bunte Blumen sind an dem Strand,Meine Mutter hat manch gülden Gewand." –("You dear child, come, go with me!(Very) beautiful games I play with you;many a colourful flower is on the beach,My mother has many a golden robe.")*"Mein Vater, mein Vater, und hörest du nicht,Was Erlenkönig mir leise verspricht?" –"Sei ruhig, bleibe ruhig, mein Kind;In dürren Blättern säuselt der Wind." –("My father, my father, and hearest you not,*What the Elfking quietly promises me?""Be calm, stay calm, my child;Through scrawny leaves the wind is sighing.")*"Willst, feiner Knabe, du mit mir gehn?Meine Töchter sollen dich warten schön;Meine Töchter führen den nächtlichen Reihn,Und wiegen und tanzen und singen dich ein." –("Do you, fine boy, want to go with me?*My daughters shall wait on you finely;My daughters lead the nightly dance,And rock and dance and sing to bring you in.")"Mein Vater, mein Vater, und siehst du nicht dortErlkönigs Töchter am düstern Ort?" –"Mein Sohn, mein Sohn, ich seh' es genau:Es scheinen die alten Weiden so grau. –"("My father, my father, and don't you see there
The Elfking's daughters in the gloomy place?"
"My son, my son, I see it clearly:
There shimmer the old willows so grey.")"Ich liebe dich, mich reizt deine schöne Gestalt;Und bist du nicht willig, so brauch' ich Gewalt." –"Mein Vater, mein Vater, jetzt faßt er mich an!Erlkönig hat mir ein Leids getan!" –("I love you, your beautiful form entices me;And if you're not willing, then I will use force.""My father, my father, he's touching me now!The Elfking has done me harm!")*Dem Vater grauset's, er reitet geschwind,Er hält in Armen das ächzende Kind,Erreicht den Hof mit Müh' und Not;In seinen Armen das Kind war tot.(It horrifies the father; he swiftly rides on,**He holds the moaning child in his arms,Reaches the farm with great difficulty;In his arms, the child was dead.)**
So, listen, read, and don't be scared. We'll watch each other's backs this Wednesday when the full episode goes live.
We understand the beginning, middle, and ending of love. But what happens before all of that? Delving "Inside of Love" we discuss the sadness of leaving a fantasy world, the surprise of telepathically sharing imagery, and why men get less pity than women. Live from a hard drive and under a blanket! Well, at least that's what this week's wonky audio sounds like.
Please very much enjoy!
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Trying for a month of songs about the various aspects of love, we get to the sad part of the equation as featured in Nada Surf's song "Inside of Love".
It's a tragic tale of love's woes that first came to my attention while dealing with the fallout of the end of a relationship. So this one'll be a doozy!
You can find "Inside of Love" on iTunes, Amazon Music (free w/ Prime!), or Google Play. Below is the official music video for the song as well as the lyrics, for you readers out there.
"Inside of Love"
*Watching terrible TV
It kills all thought
Getting spacier than
An astronaut
Making out with people
I hardly know or like
I can't believe what I do
Late at night
[Chorus:]
I wanna know what it's like
On the inside of love
I'm standing at the gates
I see the beauty above
Only when we get to see
The aerial view
Will the patterns show
We'll know what to do
I know the last page so well
I can't read the first
So I just don't start
It's getting worse
[Chorus:]
I wanna know what it's like
On the inside of love
I'm standing at the gates
I see the beauty above
I wanna know what it's like
On the inside of love
I can't find my way in
I try again and again
[Bridge:]
I'm on the outside of love
Always under or above
I can't find my way in
I try again and again
I'm on the outside of love
Always under or above
Must be a different view
To be a me with a you
[Chorus:]
I wanna know what it's like
On the inside of love
I'm standing at the gates
I see the beauty above
I wanna know what it's like
On the inside of love
Of course I'll be alright
I just had a bad night
I had a bad night*As always, listen, watch, read, and come back on Wednesday for the full episode.
No one's gonna steal my thunder as, in true teenager fashion, I create a self-centered podcast bubble in which my opinion is the only one that matters because I'm the only one talking about "Hands Down". Plus, the secret origins of my marriage.
Please very much enjoy!
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Forgetting it's a three-day weekend, I treated today as Sunday meaning I'm late on my Monday post. As apology, I'm making this post extra special in that I'm writing it while thinking fondly of you, the audience. I am nothing if not a romantic. And, to continue that sentiment, this week's episode features the Dashboard Confessional classic "Hands Down".
If you're interested in playing along, check out the song by purchasing it on iTunes or Google Play. Amazon had a weird version of it online and barely acknowledge the existence of the original album. Shenanigoats, indeed.
I found the (kinda cheesy) video as well so you can stare into Chris Carabba's eyes!
As always, for the readers among us, the lyrics:
"Hands Down"*Breathe in for luck,
breathe in so deep,
this air is blessed,
you share with me.
This night is wild,
so calm and dull,
these hearts they race,
from self control.
Your legs are smooth,
as they graze mine,
we're doing fine,
we're doing nothing at all.
My hopes are so high,
that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me,
so I die happy.
My heart is yours to fill or burst,
to break or bury,
or wear as jewelery,
which ever you prefer.
The words are hushed lets not get busted;
just lay entwined here, undiscovered.
Safe in here from all the stupid questions.
"hey did you get some?"
Man, that is so dumb.
Stay quiet, stay near, stay close they can't hear...
so we can get some.
My hopes are so high that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me, so I die happy.
My heart is yours to fill or burst,
to break or bury, or wear as jewelery,
which ever you prefer.
Hands down this is the best day I can ever remember,
I'll always remember the sound of the stereo,
the dim of the soft lights,
the scent of your hair that you twirled in your fingers
and the time on the clock when we realized it's so late
and this walk that we shared together.
The streets were wet
and the gate was locked so I jumped it,
and I let you in.
And you stood at your door with your hands on my waist
and you kissed me like you meant it.
And I knew that you meant it,
that you meant it,
that you meant it,
and I knew,
that you meant it,
that you meant it.*So listen, read, enjoy, and come back on Wednesday for the full episode.
It's always nice when these things write themselves and, to be honest, just watch this excellent video at the AV Club to hear Ben Folds talk about "The Luckiest" in great detail. If you'd like to see Ben Folds do a full performance of the song, here he is playing on the Queen Latifah show.
Did you know "The Luckiest" was supposed to be on the soundtrack of not one, but two movies? It finally made it into "About Time", a movie that I vaguely remember the poster of. But it did lead to this nice clip from the director talking about "The Luckiest".
Unrelated to Ben Folds, I found myself going down the rabbit hole of WatchMojo Top 10 videos including cheesiest songs of the 00s and songs that make you cry. I didn't see Ben on either list.
A very romantic discussion of how even old fogies deserve a special song about relationships. Is it possible to say the word love more than we do in the next 25+ minutes of podcast? NEVER!
Please very much enjoy!
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Love is all around this week as we discuss the anti-love song love song "The Luckiest" by Ben Folds. Try not to cry as you listen to this one folks.
No excuses not to download the song this week. We've got your iTunes link (only 99 cents!), we've got your Google Play link (normal price), and your Amazon Music (link...FREE with Prime).
There are a whole bunch of versions of Ben Folds performing the song, although no official video. Since the goal is to talk about the album version, listen at your own risk.
And, for the text-based music lovers, some lyrics:
"The Luckiest"I don't get many things right the first time,
In fact, I am told that a lotNow I know all the wrong turns the stumbles,And falls brought me hereAnd where was I before the dayThat I first saw your lovely face,Now I see it every dayAnd I know
That I am, I am, I am, the luckiestWhat if I had been born fifty years before you
In a house on the streetWhere you livedMaybe I'd be outside as you passed on your bike. Would I know?And in a wide sea of eyesI see one pair that I recognize
And I knowThat I am, I am, I am, the luckiestI love you more then have
Ever found the way to sayTo you
Next door there's an old man who lived to his nineties and one day
Passed away in his sleep,And his wife, she stayed for a couple of days, and passed away
I'm sorry I know that's a strange way to tell you that I know we belong,That I knowThat I am, I am, I am, the luckiest
So, listen, read, and join us on Wednesday to discuss this song. Bring a hankie.
Are you ready for some fun facts...RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME!!! Sorry, super excited.
Let's start off with not one, but two Wikipedia pages including the Muppet-specific wiki. Lot of fun facts in terms of the production process and why Jason Segel decided to skip writing the songs in favor of Bret McKenzie's take on classic Muppet tunes.
So, why was Walter a puppet while Gary was a human? Apparently early drafts of the script by Jason Segel (Gary) and Nick Stoller actually posited Gary as a ventriloquist with Walter as his dummy that comes to life and hopes to become a Muppet. So, I guess I see where the idea of this duo started. I think it works better with the two of them as brothers as ventriloquism is freaky. It actually reminds me of Joe Hill's short story "Pop Art" in which a teenager befriends an inflatable boy.
Sudden tangent: I met Joe Hill at Boston Comic-Con last year and got him to sign my nice, hardcover copy of "20th Century Ghosts" which included "Pop Art" and told him how special that story was. Man, I love getting signed copies of books. So, read that story at least, if not pick up his excellent novels.
But, that has nothing to do with Muppets. But this video of Bret McKenzie singing "Life's A Happy Song" with Kermit does!
Bret actually won an Oscar for this movie for the showstopper "Man or Muppet" which is awesome, but not quite as good as this one. Here's a fun interview with him about the process of writing songs for the Muppets. Did you know that "Life's A Happy Song" has been described as a "...light, bouncy, expertly calibrated number..." by the New York Times? I don't agree with their politics, but I have to agree with their taste in Muppet music.
The boys are back in town to discuss the Muppet hit for the next generation. In between my lectures on podcast etiquette, we cover the funny, 4th-wall-breaking antics of Gary and Walter and why a filet of fish is the most factual of lyrics.
Please very much enjoy!
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We return with the second part of our Muppet-stravaganza with special guests my kids! We'll be talking about their favorite Muppet song "Life's A Happy Song" from The Muppets (2011) movie.
Homework time. To stay up with the conversation, listen to the song before Wednesday. You can pick it up on iTunes, Amazon Music, or Google Play.
The Disney Website actually has the whole song up with scenes from the movie which will be important when you listen to our ramblings as this is definitely a song that counts on its visuals for maximum awesomeness.
Click here!!
And, for the readers among us, the lyrics!
"Life's A Happy Song"
*Everything is great, everything is grand
I've got the whole wide world in the palm of my hand
Everything is perfect it's falling into place
I can't seem to wipe this smile off my face
Life's a happy song when there's someone by my side to sing along
When you're alone life can be a little rough
It makes you feel like you're three foot tall
When it's just you times can be tough
When there's no one there to catch your fall
Everything is great, everything is grand
I've got the whole wide world in the palm of my hand
Everything is perfect, it's falling into place
I can't seem to wipe this smile off my face
Life smells like a rose with someone to paint, with someone to pose
Life's a piece of cake with someone to pedal, someone to break
Life is full of glee with someone to saw, someone to see
Life's a happy song when there's someone by my side to sing along
I've got everything that I need right in front of me
Nothing's stopping me nothing that I can't be with you right here next to me
Life's a piece of cake with someone to give and someone to take
Life's a piece of pie with someone to wash and someone to dry
Life's an easy road with someone beside you to share the load
Life is full of highs with someone to stir and someone to fry
Life's a leg of lamb with someone there to lend a hand
Life's a bunch of flowers with someone to while away the hours
Life's a fillet of fish, eh! ...Yes it is
Life's a happy song when there's someone by your side to sing along
I've got everything that I need right in front of me
Nothing's stopping me, nothing that I can't be with you right here next to me
I've got everything that I need right in front of me
[Jason Segel]
Sorry, super excited
[Amy Adams]
Oh this is the most romantic thing ever. I've always dreamt of seeing Los Angeles.
[Jason Segel]
I know Walter can't wait either. You don't mind that he's coming, right?
[Amy Adams]
Oh no, no, of course not, as long as we can spend our anniversary dinner together, that's all I ask.
[Jason Segel]
Ok, let me go check on Walter
Everything is great everything is grand, expect Gary's always off with his friend
It's never me and him, it's always me and him and him, wonder when it's going to end
But I guess that's ok 'cause maybe someday I know just how it's going to be
You'll ride up on a steed and get down on one knee and say Mary will you marry me - please
I've got everything that I need right in front of me
Nothing's stopping me nothing that I can't be with you right here next to me
You've got everything that you need right in front of you
Nothing's stopping you nothing that you can't do that the world will throw at you
Life's a happy song when there's someone by your side to sing
Life's a happy song when there's someone by your side to sing
Life's a happy song when there's someone by your side to sing along
So listen, listen, read the lyrics, and join us on Wednesday for the latest episode and discussion!*
What a blast from the past this week's episode was. Strange to say, I suppose given that every other week is its own past blast. Requisite links to learn about Jump, Little Children on Wikipedia as well as reviews of their album, Magazine, from All Music and, with a much more sweet tone, the AV Club. More musings and a live clip after the jump.
The AV Club review is specifically prescient in its estimation of the future of the band, exhorting readers to listen before they fade into the aether (exactly like Diana and I did!!). "Close Your Eyes" receives special mention as a gorgeous album-closer. If I move to Chicago, I assume I'll be able to get a job writing for them.
As I mentioned in the preview post, I was able to find a nice clip of singer Jay Clifford singing the song at a live performance. Didn't want to use it for the pre-show song, but I hope you like seeing it now.
Man, was this song ever covered a lot on YouTube. It's definitely one (along with "Pink Moon" by Nick Drake) that always makes me want to break out my guitar and learn more than power chords. Well, not to toot my own horn, but I can play some out-of-tune barre chords as well when the mood strikes.
Looks like the band is doing a reunion tour in December. Sadly, only in the South and tickets are all sold out. Ah, well. I'll always have their poorly-attended show at Brown University to remember. Still, would be nice to see them again given how much their existence as a band has strangely played into my own biography. Have you listened to the whole album yet?
This week we talk about Jump, Little Children's beautiful "Close Your Eyes". Diana is surprised that, after so many years of marriage, we would have a different interpretation of the lyrics while I wonder why more songs don't remind us of old Bert and Ernie adventures. Everyone agrees you need to go buy the album (or at the very least use your Amazon Prime subscription to download almost every song for free).
Please very much enjoy!
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Though she couldn't remember why we chose it, Diana rejoins the show to discuss a song dear to both of our hearts: Jump, Little Children's "Close Your Eyes".
Homework time. To stay up with the conversation, listen to the song before Wednesday. You can pick it up on iTunes, Amazon Music (free with Prime), or Google Play.
No official video (a great performance movie, but better to hear that after you've checked out the studio version) so I had to resort to some random uploaded version on YouTube. What's the legality of that stuff anyway? The picture is the cover to their album, Vertigo, which does not actually feature "Close Your Eyes".
And, for the readers among us, the lyrics!
"Close Your Eyes"*Tell me you had bad dreams last night
'Cause you were rolling in your sleep
Tell me you hate those bright street lights
Sometimes the shadows give you the creeps
Please, close your eyes
Please, if you don't want to say
Please, close your eyes
Please, what keeps you awake
Tell me the air up here's too thin
You can't fell the wind when it moves
Tell me the stars are made of tin
And that they're banging on the roof
Please, close your eyes
Please, if you don't want to say
Please, close your eyes
Please, what keeps you awake
The sun will rise
And keep your mind at ease
So close your eyes
Please, close your eyes
Please, if you don't want to say
Please, close your eyes
Please, what keeps you awake*So listen, listen, read the lyrics, and join us on Wednesday for the latest episode and discussion!
Interested in learning more about Stars? Here are the standard links about the band on Wikipedia and links discussing the album Set Yourself On Fire here and here.
Did you know that Pitchfork Media considers "Your Ex-lover Is Dead" the 298th best song of the 2000s? Strong start to this new millennium for Stars, huh?
Some further thoughts about the song while I was editing: did you notice the tinkly piano at the end of the song? It's featured as the outro of the episode so go back and listen if you haven't downloaded the song yet. What is it about tinkly piano that, despite its small sound, adds an amazing wistfulness. I mean, you can barely hear it, but, once you do, it's impossible to take your ears off it. Listen to The Walkmen if you need more tinkly piano than you can shake a stick at.
I found out who the creepy old man at the album's beginning is: lead singer Torquil Campbell's father, Douglas. My guess of Orson Welles coming back from the dead was WAAAY off.
And in case you need a visual for a trip across Pont Champlain, here's where our two characters are during the song.
Finally, if you really want to join Jackie and see Stars live at the Met in Rhode Island, buy your tickets here. Or you can visit the actual Stars forum in case you don't have easy access to a basement to talk about the band in.
Serenaded by a string quartet, my guest, Jackie MacDonald, and I take a trip across Pont Champlain while discussing Stars' "Your Ex-lover Is Dead". We talk metaphor, life-changing events, and our love of Canada. No podcasters were set on fire during this recording.
Please very much enjoy!
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This week we take a break from puppets with special guest Jackie MacDonald and her song "Your Ex-lover Is Dead" from Canadian indie band Stars.
Get pumped and check out the song on iTunes, Amazon (free with Prime), and Google Play.
If you're interested in seeing what Stars looks like, here's the official music video.
So, listen, check out the video, read the lyrics below, and join us on Wednesday for a discussion of "Your Ex-lover Is Dead".
"Your Ex-Lover Is Dead"*God that was strange to see you again
Introduced by a friend of a friend
Smiled and said 'yes I think we've met before'
In that instant it started to pour,
Captured a taxi despite all the rain
We drove in silence across Pont Champlain
And all of the time you thought I was sad
I was trying to remember your name...
This scar is a fleck on my porcelain skin
Tried to reach deep but you couldn't get in
Now you're outside me
You see all the beauty
Repent all your sin
It's nothing but time and a face that you lose
I chose to feel it and you couldn't choose
I'll write you a postcard
I'll send you the news
From a house down the road from real love...
Live through this, and you won't look back...
Live through this, and you won't look back...
Live through this, and you won't look back...
There's one thing I want to say, so I'll be brave
You were what I wanted
I gave what I gave
I'm not sorry I met you
I'm not sorry it's over
I'm not sorry there's nothing to say
I'm not sorry there's nothing to say...*
Wocka wocka wocka! Hope you enjoyed that special episode of "Parry Family Podcast". Interested in learning more about our song? Well, there's always IMDB and Wikipedia. If you need more details, there's even the entry from Muppetpedia for the song itself and for the whole movie.
Oh, snap! Did you know if you Google "movin right along" we're the number two searched result? It's true. Keep going down and you'll find a link to the Alkaline Trio's cover of the song. It's a little underwhelming compared to the original which I think speaks to the quality of the Henson/Oz performance. There's just a jaunty spirit to the Muppet version that a cover, no matter how well intentioned and positive can't quite capture. Still, nice to see this song still in the mindset of others.
Diana bought a great biography of Jim Henson for me for Christmas last year. I haven't gotten very far in it due to my inability to read for more than five minutes without passing out, but it seems amazing so far. Great recommendation, eh?
I'm tentatively excited for the new Muppet show coming out on September 22nd. I read a nice article on the Wall Street Journal about it that seems positive, but I haven't seen it on any of the TV sights "Coolest Fall 2015 Show" lists either. But those recommended "Revolution" to me so I'm not sure I can trust them anymore. I remember so many good Muppet productions but have really moved towards the darker Henson works like "The Dark Crystal" and "The Storyteller" and wonder if there's room for Muppet-brand comedy these days. I sure did like the newer movies though so optimism still reigns in my household. Will you be watching it? Are you looking forward to it? Let me know in the comments or email.
And remember, we're always looking for new guests. We even updated the website with a list of the questions I typically ask/prep for during an interview so you can feel all prepared and such. I'm the master of softballs! Check it out on the top bar (Wanna be a guest?).
See you next week for more adult matters!
It's a family affair this week as we discuss one of my personal Muppet favs, "Movin' Right Along". Our discussion of this classic Muppets tune devolves into Yoda impressions as my middle son hijacks the podcast. Baby squeaks throughout. Still better than the first attempt at recording.
Please very much enjoy!
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The fall means cool weather, red leaves, and new TV shows are right around the corner including a brand new Muppets series. And what better way to celebrate the reappearance of a delightful franchise than to discuss our favorite classic Muppets song with the rest of the Parry family.
While many songs entered, we can only discuss one and that one is: "Movin' Right Along" from The Muppet Movie (1979)
You can download it on iTunes (whole album only 6 bucks!!), Amazon Music, and Google Play. The iTunes whole album deal is probably your best bet. There are a number of awesome songs on The Muppet Movie soundtrack including "Rainbow Connection" (not our song this week, but an excellent one to be sure).
And since it wouldn't be a Muppet song without some wacky hijinks, watch the whole tune in context with this clip from the movie before reading the lyrics in preparation for Wednesday.
"Movin' Right Along"
Movin' right along in search of good times and good news,With good friends you can't lose,This could become a habit!Opportunity knocks once let's reach out and grab it (yeah!),Together we'll nab it,We'll hitchhike, bus or yellow cab it!(Cab it?)Movin' right along.Footloose and fancy-free.Getting there is half the fun; come share it with me.Moving right along (doog-a-doon doog-a-doon).We'll learn to share the load.We don't need a map to keep this show on the road.(Hey, that song is sounding better Fozzie.)Movin' right along,We've found a life on the highway.And your way is my way,So trust my navigation.California here we come, the pie-in-the-sky-land.Palm trees, and warm sand.Though sadly we just left Rhode Island.(We did what?!)(Just forget it.)Movin' right along (doog-a-doon doog-a-doon).Hey LA, where've you gone?Send someone to fetch us, were in Sasketchewan!Movin' right along (doog-a-doon doog-a-doon).You take it, you know best.Hey, I've never seen the sun come up in the West?Movin' right along.We're truly birds of a feather,We're in this together and we know where we're going.Movie stars with flashy cars and life with the top down.We're storming the big town,(Yeah, Storm is right should it be snowing?)(Uh, no I don't think so...)Movin' right along,Do I see signs of men?Yeah, "welcome" on the same post that says "come back again."Moving right along, nice town!Footloose and fancy-free,You're ready for the big time...Is it ready for me?Movin' right along,Movin' right along,Movin' right along,Movin' right along
Want to learn more about the Wu Tang Clan? Check out this handy-dandy primer from the A.V.Club to get your RZAs, GZAs, and ODBs straight.
Interested in Mr. Killah himself? After you peruse our usual Wikipedia link on Ghostface and the Ironman album, read a quick review on AllMusic. Perhaps you'd even like to read this brief reminiscence from RZA, Ironman's producer, 10 years after the album's release. I enjoyed these quick interviews with Ghostface on Pop Matters and the A.V. Club as well.
It's always funny how some artists can be so acclaimed, yet I still have almost no knowledge of them. Big thanks to Mark for expanding my horizons with his song.
See y'all next week for some more guest favorites.
We delve into the 36 chambers with special guest Mark Brillon, ever after to be dubbed our hip-hop expert, to discuss "All That I Got Is You" by Ghostface Killah. It's autobiographical from all angles as we learn about Ghostface's upbringing, Mark's brush with the man himself, and where I hide all my CDs.
Please very much enjoy!
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We're heading out into new territory with this week's song: Ghostface Killah's "All That I Got Is You" (feat. Mary J. Blige and Poppa Wu) brought to us by a very special guest: King Mark Brillon. He's the king of hip hop podcast discussion, folks
Deciding that, six episodes was enough time without hip hop's glorious representation, Mark swung by to give me a crash course in the genre and to discuss his song "All That I Got Is You" from Ghostface Killah's 1996 solo debut, Ironman.
You can download it on iTunes, Amazon Music (free for Prime subscribers), and Google Play. Free Prime music is a grand way to check out previously unknown albums with minimal response effort. Always a pleasure to maximize your musical reinforcement.
Check out Ghostface's video for the song here as well as the full lyrics below. Now you're all set for Wednesday's episode.
"All That I Got Is You"(feat. Mary J. Blige, Poppa Wu)
[Intro One: (movie)]
What dey gives you blood?
Three months man
Whatchu doin in here anyway? You oughta be home with your momma
How old are you boy?
Thirteen
Thirteen? Damn, the bastards must be runnin outta niggaz to arrest
[Intro: Ghostface]
Yeah, ohh yeah, this goes out
to all the families that went through the struggle
Yeah, from the heart
It was from the heart, everything was real
[Mary J.]
All that I got is you
And I'm so thankful I made it through
[Verse One:]
Yo, dwellin in the past, flashbacks when I was young
Whoever thought that I'd have a baby girl and three sons
I'm goin through this difficult stage I find it hard to believe
Why my old Earth had so many seeds
But she's an old woman, and due to me I respect that
I saw life for what it's really worth and took a step back
Family ain't family no more, we used to play ball
Eggs after school, eat grits cause we was poor
Grab the pliers for the channel, fix the hanger on the TV
Rockin each others pants to school wasn't easy
We survived winters, snotty nosed with no coats
We kept it real, but the older brother still had jokes
Sadly, daddy left me at the age of six
I didn't know nuttin but mommy neatly packed his shit
She cried, and grandma held the family down
I guess mommy wasn't strong enough, she just went down
Check it, fifteen of us in a three bedroom apartment
Roaches everywhere, cousins and aunts was there
Four in the bed, two at the foot, two at the head
I didn't like to sleep with Jon-Jon he peed the bed
Seven o'clock, pluckin roaches out the cereal box
Some shared the same spoon, watchin saturday cartoons
Sugar water was our thing, every meal was no thrill
In the summer, free lunch held us down like steel
And there was days I had to go to Tex house with a note
Stating "Gloria can I borrow some food I'm dead broke"
So embarrasin I couldn't stand to knock on they door
My friends might be laughin, I spent stamps in stores
Mommy where's the toilet paper, use the newspaper
Look Ms. Rose gave us a couch, she's the neighbor
Things was deep, my whole youth was sharper than cleats
Two brothers with muscular dystrophy, it killed me
But I remember this, mom's would lick her finger tips
To wipe the cold out my eye before school wit her spit
Case worker had her runnin back to face to face
I caught a case, housin tried to throw us out of our place
Sometimes I look up at the stars and analyze the sky
And ask myself was I meant to be here... why?
Yeah, yo
[Chorus: Mary J. Blige]
All that I got is you
And I'm so thankful I made it through
[repeat 4X]
Word up mommy, I love you
Word up
It was all you, word, you brought me in like this
[Verse Two: Mary J. Blige, Poppa Wu]
I sit and think about
All the times we did without, yeah
I always said I woudn't cry
When I saw tears in your eyes
I understand that daddy's not here now
But some way or somehow, I will always be around, yeah
All things that I did from this to them
Oh from drugs to being there
Being down and out and I love you always
Yeah, you say
You see the universe, which consists of the sun moon and star
And them planets, that exist in my space
Like man woman and child
You understand?
We got to keep it real, and what reality and reality will keep it real with us
I remember them good ol days
Because see, that's the child I was
What made me the man I am today
See cause if you forget where you come from, heheh
You're never gonna make it where you're goin, aheh
Because you lost the reality of yourself
So take one stroll through your mind
And see what you will find
And you'll see a whole universe all over again
and again and again and again and again
Heheheh, yeah heheheheh ahaheheheh
Quick epilogue this week as I prepare for a nice weekend trip with my oldest two boys.
You probably wanted to take a look at the Gears of War trailer we kept talking about, right?
Well, here it is...
And here is the video for the Tears for Fears original:
Wow. That's not really giving me the same feeling as the Gary Jules version. Wait, this'll cheer me up!
Aw, yeah, that's the stuff. Best library ever!And, finally, the ending of Donnie Darko that birthed this version of "Mad World" into the cultural zeitgeist. Might want to stop at about 2:38 unless you'd like to hear the strange French audio. C'mon, Fox! Who does allowing me to watch the original four-minute clip hurt?And here's some stuff to read if videos aren't your thing.See you next week for a special guest episode! La la la la la...la la la la la laa laa laa laa la la...
I'm typing this one handed with a sleeping baby in my arms. Yet our love of Michael Andrews and Gary Jules cover of "Mad World" can't be stopped by such trivialities. Thus the podcast rolls on with special guests Diana Parry-Cruwys, Donnie Darko, Marcus Fenix, and a band of wandering thespians.
Please very much enjoy!
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After waiting for two weeks for the thrilling conclusion of our Summer Song theme, without further ado, Episode 5, a.k.a., Talking About Summersong by The Decemberists.Please very much enjoy! If you cannot see the audio controls, your browser does not support the audio element
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This week Diana rejoins us to talk about the Gary Jules cover of "Mad World". Though we discuss a number of topics related to the song, I mostly want to talk about "Gears of War". Find out how this video game with chainsaw machine guns relates to the sedate tune about depression this Wednesday!
In the meantime, be sure to listen to the song by getting it on iTunes, Amazon (free w/ Prime), or Google Play.
You can also check out the music video below.
And, of course, the lyrics. See you on Wednesday!"Mad World"*All around me are familiar faces
Worn out places, worn out faces
Bright and early for their daily races
Going nowhere, going nowhere
Their tears are filling up their glasses
No expression, no expression
Hide my head, I wanna drown my sorrow
No tomorrow, no tomorrow
And I find it kinda funny
I find it kinda sad
The dreams in which I'm dying
Are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
I find it hard to take
When people run in circles
It's a very, very mad world, mad world
Children waiting for the day they feel good
Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday
And I feel the way that every child should
Sit and listen, sit and listen
Went to school and I was very nervous
No one knew me, no one knew me
Hello teacher tell me what's my lesson
Look right through me, look right through me
And I find it kinda funny
I find it kinda sad
The dreams in which I'm dying
Are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
I find it hard to take
When people run in circles
It's a very, very mad world, mad world
Enlarging your world
Mad world*
And thus, our Summer Theme is quietly swallowed by a wave (or as I usually sing it very loudly, "swallowed by a whale" which is a different Decemberists' song).
As we mentioned on the episode, this song provides a strong visual for me. When I hear "Summersong", this is the image that pops into my head:
Or something else, like this one:
If your mind is now wandering to different topics like old-timey swimwear, why not see where that takes you with this, utterly unrelated to the show, history of the bathing suit. If you want to get back on track with information about the song itself, here are the requisite links to reviews of the Decemberists album "The Crane Wife" from AllMusic and Wikipedia.
If you search for "Summersong" long enough, you won't find any corroboration of my amazing lyrical theories, but you WILL find:
1) a "Game of Thrones"/teen drama short story
2) a fashion blog about a lady living abroad in the UK and
3) some dude talking about baseball
So many deep thoughts about "Summersong"
Hope you enjoyed the Summer Theme episodes. Don't forget to write us if you want more of these (or, alternately, less)!
This week, part two of our Summer Song theme with the appropriately titled "Summersong" by The Decemberists.
Carolyn Beaumier joins up with me again to discuss my pick for this topic. We laughed, we cried...one of us ranted about lyrical conspiracy theories for like five minutes. Fabulously uncomfortable for all involved!
You can download it on iTunes , Google Play, or Amazon Music. The whole album "The Crane Wife" is less than 10 dollars and well worth picking up if you don't already own it. You're welcome for the plug lead singer/songwriter, Colin Meloy.
No official music video, but here's some dude's bootleg iPhone footage from a Decemberist's concert.
And, of course, the lyrics. Can you find the hidden meaning inside that the government doesn't want you to know? Don't forget to check back with us on Wednesday for the thrilling conclusion of our Summer Songs!
"Summersong"*Ramblin' where to begin
I taste the summer on your peppery skin
Been saved the warmer the waves
I felt a slip into a watery grave
My girl, linen and curls
Lips parting like a flag all unfurled
She's grand the bend of her hand
Digging deep into the sweep of the sand
Summer arrives with a length of lights
Summer blows away
And quietly gets swallowed by a wave
It gets swallowed by a wave
Waylay the din of the day
Boats bobbing in the blue of the bay
In deep far beneath all the dead sailors
Slowly slipping to sleep
My girl, linen and curls
Lips parting like a flag all unfurled
She's grand the bend of her hand
Digging deep into the sweep of the sand
Summer arrives with a length of lights
Summer blows away
And quietly gets swallowed by a wave
It gets swallowed by a wave...*
One of the hoped benefits of doing this show was putting more emphasis on listening to songs I wouldn't otherwise have given that focus. I have yet to feel that time wasn't worth it. Hope you enjoyed our first theme episode and feel the heat from the Summer Songs show.
Did you know that Gotye is Belgian-Australian and not a goat-man/yogurt hybrid like I'd originally surmised. These epilogue posts really are helpful.
If you'd like to learn more about this song, check out a whole bevy of song facts from an eponymous website or just good ol' Wikipedia. You can also learn more about the album as a whole with this capsule review from Rolling Stone or the slightly longer reviews from AllMusic and Pitchfork.
Did you also know this song was featured on the TV show "Glee"? Of course not. No one watched that show after its first season.
And, just for funzies, I've linked some audio bloopers from this week's episode. Please, feel free to laugh along with us for a moment.
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The theme: Summer songs. The guest: Carolyn Beaumier with what I think is better audio than last week. The song: "Somebody That I Used To Know"We actually recorded about two of our favorite summer songs; we had so much audio on the subject that I'll be breaking it into two separate parts so each song gets full attention from the audience.
Please very much enjoy part one! If you cannot see the audio controls, your browser does not support the audio element
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What a doozy we recorded this week. Carolyn Beaumier returns (with what I hope is better audio to do her melodious voice justice) to discuss our favorite summer songs. We waxed philosophically about our picks for so long that, I've had to cut it down into two whole episodes so as to give each of our songs its due.
Our first song is "Somebody That I Used To Know" by Gotye (feat. Kimbra). I wasn't super familiar with this song but really fell in love with it. Perhaps you will too!
You can download it on iTunes (), Google Play, or Amazon Music.
We've also got a link to the kind of weird music video.
And, of course, the lyrics. So, listen, watch, read up, and be back on Wednesday for the first of our two-parter about summer songs!
"Somebody That I Used To Know"
*[Gotye:]
Now and then I think of when we were together
Like when you said you felt so happy you could die
Told myself that you were right for me
But felt so lonely in your company
But that was love and it's an ache I still remember
You can get addicted to a certain kind of sadness
Like resignation to the end, always the end
So when we found that we could not make sense
Well you said that we would still be friends
But I'll admit that I was glad that it was over
But you didn't have to cut me off
Make out like it never happened and that we were nothing
And I don't even need your love
But you treat me like a stranger and that feels so rough
No you didn't have to stoop so low
Have your friends collect your records and then change your number
I guess that I don't need that though
Now you're just somebody that I used to know
Now you're just somebody that I used to know
Now you're just somebody that I used to know
[Kimbra:]
Now and then I think of all the times you screwed me over
But had me believing it was always something that I'd done
But I don't wanna live that way
Reading into every word you say
You said that you could let it go
And I wouldn't catch you hung up on somebody that you used to know
[Gotye:]
But you didn't have to cut me off
Make out like it never happened and that we were nothing
And I don't even need your love
But you treat me like a stranger and that feels so rough
No you didn't have to stoop so low
Have your friends collect your records and then change your number
I guess that I don't need that though
Now you're just somebody that I used to know
[x2]
Somebody
(I used to know)
Somebody
(Now you're just somebody that I used to know)
(I used to know)
(That I used to know)
(I used to know)
Somebody*
Special guest Carolyn Beaumier joins the show to talk about Otis Redding's posthumous hit "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay thus pulling us out of our 90's rut.Pardon for poorly balancing my microphone creating some tinny audio. Also sorry about the rain tapping on the air conditioning unit. And someone turned off our lights so we recorded in the dark.Good times!
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Very exciting to talk about one of my personal favorite songs on this week's episode: seminal, alternative tune Tonight, Tonight.Special guest, Diana, joins in to what is otherwise a 15-minute gushing over this track. Pardon the tinny audio...not sure how to improve that quite yet.Please very much enjoy! If you cannot see the audio controls, your browser does not support the audio element
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Ta da! Our very first episode. Hopefully you will very much enjoy it.
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Here's a link to the album description on AllMusic and Wikipedia as well as a nifty article from NPR in Boston by someone who also bought this as their first CD. Finally, the the original review by Rolling Stone.
If you're interested in what Adam is singing, behold his lyrics:
Step out the front door like a ghostinto the fog where no one noticesthe contrast of white on white.And in between the moon and youthe angels get a better viewof the crumbling difference between wrong and right.I walk in the air between the rainthrough myself and back againWhere? I don't knowMaria says she's dyingthrough the door I hear her cryingWhy? I don't know[Chorus:]Round here we always stand up straightRound here something radiatesMaria came from Nashville with a suitcase in her handshe said she'd like to meet a boy who looks like Elvisand she walks along the edge of where the ocean meets the landjust like she's walking on a wire in the circusshe parks her car outside of my houseand takes her clothes offsays she's close to understanding Jesusand she knows she's more than just a little misunderstoodshe has trouble acting normal when she's nervous[Chorus:]Round here we're carving out our namesRound here we all look the sameRound here we talk just like lionsBut we sacrifice like lambsRound here she's slipping through my handsSleeping children better run like the windout of the lightning dreamMama's little baby better get herself inout of the lightningShe says, "It's only in my head."She says, "Shh I know it's only in my head."But the girl on car in the parking lotsays, "Man you should try to take a shot.can't you see my walls are crumbling?"Then she looks up at the buildingand says she's thinking of jumpingShe says she's tired of lifeshe must be tired of something[Chorus:]Round here she's always on my mindRound here hey man got lots of timeRound here we're never sent to bed earlyAnd nobody makes us waitRound here we stay up very, very, very, very lateI can't see nothin', nothin', round here.You catch me if I'm falling.You catch me if I'm falling.You catch me cause I'm falling down on youI said, "I'm under the gun..."Round here.Oh, man, I said, "I'm under the gun..."Round here.And I can't see nothin', nothin'.Round here. We don't actually do a ton of research before doing the show: this is new media where feelings rule over fact!
And here's the actual music video for "Round Here" again if you missed it in the preview post. Don't see any small pool like Diana mentioned, but it's the metaphor that counts.
If you have feedback for us or want to be on the show, don't forget to email me. My wife will only be the guest so many times. While you wait by your phone for my call, remember to subscribe to our RSS feed below. We'll try to get on iTunes at some point. One step at a time.
Here we go with a little test of RSS feed creation and uploading the darn files with some audio I created with my son briefly discussing "Crazy Train".
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Here's the direct link to the show if you're so inclined.
Even after listening to the podcast four or five times while editing it, I really never got tired of Otis Redding's voice or this song.
Did you know that "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay was his only #1 hit and didn't become so until after his tragic death? Singers should avoid chartered planes, folks. It's just good advice.
If you'd like to learn more about this song, check out the AllMusic review of the album, also named after the song.
If you'd like to learn more about Otis Redding himself, check out this quick bio or the Wikipedia article about the R+B legend. I also found a neat article from the Atlantic discussing Otis Redding's development as an artist and what his future music may have given us.
There's no official music video for this song since Otis died just four days after its recording, but here's a somewhat cheesy, somewhat interesting montage of photos and clips of Otis performing. It's somehow official so, that's good.
If you want to see how such a simple but amazing song can be kind of ruined, check out Sammy Hagar's cover. Something about this version seems to completely miss the point. And crystallizes the terrible parts of the '70s...which is every part.
We've got our first special guest lined up for this week's episode: Ms. Carolyn Beaumier!!
Carolyn broke out of our subconscious mold of just doing 90's songs with a real Golden Oldy: Otis Redding's "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay".
To get ready for the show, dust off the ol' phonograph and your wax cylinder of this track, or just do what I did and
Or get it on Amazon (free download with Prime!) or on Google Music.
And if you want to read along with the song, here are the lyrics.
"(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay"*Sittin' in the morning sun
I'll be sittin' when the evening comes
Watching the ships roll in
Then I watch them roll away again, yeah
I'm sittin' on the dock of the bay
Watchin' the tide roll away, ooh
I'm just sittin' on the dock of the bay
Wastin' time
I left my home in Georgia
Headed for the Frisco Bay
Cuz I've had nothing to live for
And look like nothing's gonna come my way
So, I'm just gon' sit on the dock of the bay
Watchin' the tide roll away, ooh
I'm sittin' on the dock of the bay
Wastin' time
Looks like nothing's gonna change
Everything still remains the same
I can't do what ten people tell me to do
So I guess I'll remain the same, listen
Sittin' here resting my bones
And this loneliness won't leave me alone, listen
Two thousand miles I roam
Just to make this dock my home, now
I'm just gon' sit at the dock of a bay
Watchin' the tide roll away, ooh
Sittin' on the dock of the bay
Wastin' time*[harmonic whistling]Just be sure to get it, listen to it, think about it, write down some questions, mull over your answers, and tune in on our new day, Wednesday, for the discussion.
Here are some more supplemental materials to read after listening to the show. Apparently they were in Boston Tuesday night...which I didn't realize until Tuesday night. I almost got to see the original lineup in Providence way way back in 1999. Perhaps it's just never meant to be.
Want a quick rundown of the Smashing Pumpkins? This video from Diffuser shares some key tidbits about the band for those of you unfamiliar with their oeuvre.
As always, here are write-ups about the full Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness album that "Tonight, Tonight" is featured on from AllMusic and a brief summary of just the song on Wikipedia.
Finally, here's a quick acoustic version of "Tonight, Tonight" by Billy Corgan from the Howard Stern Show. I still love the bombastic orchestral backing of the original, but, knowing more about the song as a response to childhood abuse, there's something really touching about the quieter, guitar-only version.
This week we're doing a song that's very much my song: "Tonight, Tonight" by the Smashing Pumpkins.
To get ready for the discussion, break out your old CD copy, or download one of these new-fangled digital versions.
Click here to
To buy on Amazon, click here.
To buy on the Android Marketplace, click here.
If you want to be sure to understand everything Billy Corgan is saying, here are the lyrics to the song:
"Tonight, Tonight"Time is never time at all
You can never ever leave without leaving a piece of youth
And our lives are forever changed
We will never be the same
The more you change the less you feel
Believe, believe in me, believe
That life can change, that you're not stuck in vain
We're not the same, we're different tonight
Tonight, so bright
Tonight
And you know you're never sure
But you're sure you could be right
If you held yourself up to the light
And the embers never fade in your city by the lake
The place where you were born
Believe, believe in me, believe
In the resolute urgency of now
And if you believe there's not a chance tonight
Tonight, so bright
Tonight
We'll crucify the insincere tonight
We'll make things right, we'll feel it all tonight
We'll find a way to offer up the night tonight
The indescribable moments of your life tonight
The impossible is possible tonight
Believe in me as I believe in you, tonight
And since we'll definitely be talking about it, be sure to watch the [best] music video [of all time] too.
See everyone on Thursday when the new episode goes up, barring my wife going into labor before then.
Wow, this is very exciting. "They're Playing Our Song" is on iTunes! Kind of feels like we made it now: we're legit. So, you should probably click this big iTunes button and subscribe.
Now that we're a respected pillar of the podcasting community, you should probably join in. Why not email me with your favorite song and become one of our guests. My plan is for this to be a positive experience so no song will be patronized. Come on the show now before we're too famous for anyone but A-list celebrities!
Well, the first episode is in the bag. Since this won't be as interesting if you haven't heard the song, I'll try to remember to send a preview post before every episode. No idea how long editing, posting the feed, etc. will take yet so expect sporadic release dates for now.The song for our first episode is "Round Here" by the Counting Crows which you can get on iTunes or Amazon Music. You can also hear the song on streaming services or check out the music video on You Tube down below.I recommend listening to the song so you have any idea what we're talking about. Or don't and play a fun mind game in which you nod politely as we blather on about the ephemera of a song you've never heard before. Either way, I get rich off my little podcast.We've also got email!! If you're interested in being on the show or giving us feedback, you can email me at rob@playingoursong.net. Any song, any time, anywhere. Provided anywhere is close to my house.
Sit back, relax, and wait for me to sort out a series of technical difficulties.
In the meantime, check us out on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for all relevant updates.