Hi-Fives

Top 5 Albums Of 2005

2005-12-31T23:59:00.000-08:00

It was quite a spectaular year for new music. It was fun putting together my 2005 mix CD, but I've got to admit... it was difficult narrowing down the list to the best five albums of the year. Based on my listening frequencies (pun intended) for the past year, here are my absolute favorites:

Van Morrison - Magic Time. I can't quite get over my indulgence in his music over the last few years (most specifically). Had you presented Astral Weeks or Veedon Fleece to me a decade ago, I wouldn't have grasped their beauty. These days, I understand a lot more. And so comes Magic Time. Van is in fine voice, and his knack for catchy melodies and thoughtful imagery is still intact. Enjoy this nostalgic CD with someone you love (warm fireplace optional).

Low - The Great Destroyer. As introduced in a Hi-Fives posting nearly a year ago, The Great Destroyer entered my life as a savior of sorts. Dark and often mysterious, but surprisingly warm and comfortable. It's always a wonderful thing to discover a new band that you can easily gravitate to, and at the beginning of 2005, Low was it for me. Apparently, this album turned off a lot of hardcore fans because they strayed a bit from their proven formula. Hey... artists need room to grow.

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - Cold Roses. Mr. Adams found himself quite busy in the last year. Three albums released within a twelve month course, including this double disc set! This was the first of the three, and probably because of that... I found myself more attached to it than the others. Perhaps it was the four-state road trip that it accompanied me on over the summer. Regardless, it worked as my soundtrack without fail.

Caitlyn Cary & Thad Corckrell - Begonias. This one sort of came out of nowhere. Then again, I've always been a sucker for that twangy male-female harmony, especially when the lyrical content reflects all that is sad in my life. Shoot... even with things looking up now, this album still hits home. Had you asked me earlier in the year, I would not have predicted that two members of Whiskeytown would each crack my year-end top 5.

The Decemberists - Picaresque. Last but certainly not least... I present the oddly narrative voice of Mr. Colin Meloy. All I can remember is that two years ago I found myself not liking the first CD by this band that crossed my desk. It could have been a bad day, or just a bad CD. Still, the stars aligned properly this time around and I fell in love with this wildly theatrical indie release featuring songs of espionage and pirates. All bets are off in 2006 if I use this album as a watermark.

And with that, we embark on a new year with all kinds of fresh, new sounds to get us through good and bad times. Hopefully, they will keep you festive amongst others and company when you're alone. Keep me posted throughout the year and let me know what's in your iPod from time to time. Music belongs to us all. Cheers!

Dave's Faves 2005

2005-12-31T19:31:00.000-08:00

Once again, this goes beyond a top five, but I've opted to make this an annual exception to my strict "rule of five". Forgive me. Now, if you don't mind, let's get cookin'!

Take one blank 80-minute CD-R. Add 18 of my favorite pre-mixed songs of 2005. Pour gently into the CD writing software of your choice. Allow contents to completely burn. Then, what you will have in your hot little hands... fresh out of the oven, is a comprehensive year-in-review best-of CD compiled by none other than yours truly! It's the gift that keeps on giving, isn't it? And without further delay... the ingredients are:

Ryan Adams "Cold Roses" from Cold Roses
Lou Barlow "Mary" from Emoh
The Brokedown "Down In The Valley" from The Dutchman's Gold
Caitlyn Cary & Thad Cockrell "Two Different Things" from Begonias
Coldplay "Fix You" from X & Y
The Decemberists "The Bagman's Gambit" from Picaresque
John Doe "Twin Brother" from Forever Hasn't Happened Yet
Ben Folds "Landed" from Songs For Silverman
Ida "Written On My Face" from Heart Like A River
Low "California" from The Great Destroyer
Natalie Maines "Travelin' Soldier" from Songs For Tsunami Relief: Austin To Asia
Van Morrison "Just Like Greta" from Magic Time
Robert Plant & The Strange Sensation "All The King's Horses" from Mighty Rearranger
Sexsmith & Kerr "Listen" from Destination Unknown
Shivaree "It Got All Black" from Who's Got Trouble?
Smog "Let Me See The Colts" from A River Ain't Too Much To Love
M. Ward "Fuel For Fire" from Transistor Radio
bonus outro track:
Brad Paisley "Shatner Says Goodbye" hidden track from Time Well Wasted

There were many great songs that were on this list at one point or another, but simply didn't have the endurance to hold up as a year-end favorite. Kudos go out to all the runners-up including a barn-burning effort by Richard Buckner & John Langford. Maybe next year, guys. As for the rest of you... let's see your best of 2005 lists!

Blink And She's Gone...

2005-11-01T19:29:00.000-08:00

To quote Matthew Sweet... "Nothing lasts". It's quite true on many levels. I'm finding out more and more about this as I get older. Our lives are constantly changing within us and around us. So, when you hear some wise ass pipe up and say, "you can't go home again"... believe it. And to quote Elvis Costello... "Home is anywhere you hang your head". No matter where you may find yourself spending the night... it's always gonna be with yourself, so you better at least enjoy your own company. As for me... there are moments where I find it hard to live with myself. Other times, I feel like I'm the safest bet I have. It all manages to balance out from time to time. But for now, I'm left watching re-runs of what just happened to me. So, after a Hi-Fives posting hiatus... I welcome you to the top five songs that remind me of "her". Enjoy.

Jewel "Race Car Driver" (from Save The Linoleum, 1995) - We made a fun and very memorable trip to San Diego to see Jewel play at Humphrey's. Prior to that, I was amazed to discover that she knew this obscure and humorous mesh of love and cars.
Robert Plant & the Strange Sensation "All The King's Horses" (from Mighty Rearranger, 2005) - I got this CD the very week I knew I was falling in love. That aside, I still think this is the greatest song about believeing once again in the existance of perfection.
Steve Poltz "Stax" (from Chinese Vacation, 2003) - She was already a huge fan of Poltzy. I had only known that he wrote a song or two for Jewel. I fell in love with this song on the first listen. An excellent sequel to Costello's "So Like Candy". "You can keep most of the records... leave the Motown and the Stax".
Bruce Springsteen "Long Time Comin'" (from Devils & Dust, 2005) - Bruce sings, "I ain't gonna fuck it up this time." I remember promising this to myself as I first heard it... knowing that I was experiencing something truly special. I'm sorry.
U2 "Running To Stand Still" (from the Joshua Tree, 1987) - Actually, anything off of this album would do. It came out the year I graduated from high school. The same high school she graduated from a year later. We both rediscovered this album at the same time around the time we found each other. It was an odd, but right connection. As a result, this record means something different to me now. The opening line may sum things up, in the end.

I recall giving some advice recently to a friend of mine who was having some fatal relationship issues at the time. I told him that the opportunity for a fresh start and greatness can exist out there, and that I had found it after tearing down all my own walls of defense. Well, the question remains. Can I take my own medicine? Of course I can. That advice came from a clean heart and a clear mind. And with that... someone new will ultimately push five different songs to the top of the playlist. I can't wait to find out what they are... and why.

Just Another Face In The Crowd

2005-07-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

I've been attending concerts for well over twenty years now. I've seen the best of `em. I've seen the worst of `em. This past weekend I attended my 8th consecutive Hootenanny festival in Orange County. New to the merch booth this year was a dandy DVD that includes an overview of the festival as well as highlights from the show two years ago in Fullerton. WOOHOO! I was there! In fact, I noticed that if you look closely during John Doe's performance of "Backroom" you can see me in the crowd enjoying the show in the blazing hot sun. Ah. Good times. Good times.

Today's top 5 takes an interesting twist that few might be able to follow. If you can, you are welcome to add your five. So here it is... my top 5 songs where I made an appearance (in the crowd) on officially released live albums/videos:

"Born To Run (acoustic)" Bruce Springsteen, from Chimes Of Freedom CD (1988)
All I can say is that this was recorded at one of the best concerts I've ever been to. Springsteen's four night run in L.A. during the Tunnel Of Love tour was nothing short of amazing. His solo reworking of his mid-70's anthem was the cherry on top (recorded on April 25, 1988 at the Los Angeles Sports Arena, Los Angeles, California). Another track on this four song EP, "Tougher Than The Rest", was also recorded on the same night. Music videos for both performances can be found on the Bruce Springsteen: The Complete Video Anthology 1978-2000 DVD.

"Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" Paul McCartney, from Tripping The Live Fantastic 2 CD set (1990) Paul's first comeback tour of major proportions featured a flurry of past hits that had never been performed live. Oh what a treat it was to see and hear it all. When Paul released Fantastic as a 2 CD set, he chose to mix it up and include recordings from cities all over the world. I happened to be in one of them for a rocking version of the Beatles' psychedelic title track from 1967 (recorded on November 23, 1989 at the Forum, Los Angeles, California). Not bad for being short-changed on the 60's myself.

"Better Man" Pearl Jam, from New Rock 98.5 KOME: Pearl Jam Live promo 2 CD set (1995) This show was set up as a make-up show for another gig I attended at Goldengate Park in San Francisco a few months earlier. At that show, Eddie Vedder became ill about six songs into PJ's set. He had to bow out, only to be replaced by Neil Young for the rest of the show. WOOHOO! Too bad the rest of the crowd felt jipped. So, they gave a discount to the people for a special show in San Jose before the year was out. Well, I was there for that one too! The entire show (recorded on November 4, 1995 at Spartan Stadium, San Jose, California) was recorded and released in its entirety by local radio station KOME, on a limited number of promotional CD sets given away on the air. I guess it was no big deal to the Jam (not that Jam) since they were broadcastng a live soundboard feed from a van circling the parking lot via their own Monkeywrench Radio. A top notch set from their career apex. Also guesting during their set: the Fastbacks and Ben Harper. Oh, and as I recall, they played well past the community's noise curfew. Rock and roll!

"Bell Bottom Blues" Eric Clapton, from One More Car, One More Rider CD & DVD (2001) One of the true guitar greats of all time. After having seen the "blues" tour several years prior, it was nice to see him play songs he wrote on this outing. I got lucky. He busted out several Derek & The Dominos tunes, to my delight. "Bell Bottom Blues" (recorded on August 18, 2001 at the Staples Center, Los Angeles, California) has long been one of my favorite songs of longing (no pun intended), and he wasted no time in pulling out all the stops. This entire DVD was filmed at the same show I attended. The 2 CD version of this release contains only portions of this gig. Side note: Our parking lot attendant was robbed at gunpoint just as he was waving us into a spot.

"Back Room" John Doe, from Hootenanny V.1 DVD (2005) As mentioned at the beginning of this blog. There's nothing like a good ol' Hoot! Great food. Classic cars. Tough dudes. Hot dames. And, everything from roots country to psychobilly music to fill the air! I actually had no idea that this gig was being filmed. My only question is "why wasn't the Stray Cats reunion set on here?" Anyway, the likes of Russell Scott, Lee Rocker, Dave Alvin, the Blasters, James Intveld, and Junior Brown only crack the surface of what's on this nicely produced DVD. Great footage of Stuart "Statue Of Liberty" Johnson on skins as well. Think I'm gonna get me some Hawaiian shave ice!

Woodstock? Been there? Done that? Let's hear what you got!

Holy crap!

2005-05-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

I have a certain respect for folks who make musical magic. I cannot, however, respect that ridiculous "Chia Pet" of a hairdo that Phil Spector is sportin' these days. I mean, if he even thinks he stands a chance of overcoming his murder accusation, he's gonna need to start using some Aqua Net. Jesus.

Who knows... maybe he thought the hair dryer was a favorite pistol and just got too carried away. You know how he is with his toys.

And if that wasn't enough... it looks like he's getting married this weekend at the site of the murder he is accused of. Is it the location he chose that irks me, or is it that someone agreed to be his bride? This guy may give Michael Jackson a run for the money in regards to tabloid fodder.

Today's list.... Oh, I don't know... five great moments in the production career of Phil Spector... a musical genius with a killer touch:

"You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling" the Righteous Brothers, from You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin' (1965)
I believe this song still stands as the most-played song in the history of American radio. Full of painful emotion... a great call-and-answer bridge... and a wall of sound. I don't ever get tired of this one.

"Gimme Some Truth" John Lennon, from Imagine (1971) Footage of this session can be seen in the DVD entitled "Gimme Some Truth". John is going to town on this one, and Phil does his best to keep him from blowing out his voice so early. Great performance and fine direction from Phil.

"Be My Baby" the Ronettes, from Today's Hits (1963) A classic. There's something about those drums and the sexy voice of Ronnie Spector. And, if you're looking for a sequel... I recommend "Take Me Home Tonight" by Eddie Money. Ronnie is featured recreating her call to her lover. Priceless.

"Do You Remember Rock 'n' Roll Radio?" the Ramones, from End Of The Century (1980) The story goes that Phil pulled a gun on Dee Dee Ramone during these sessions. Maybe he got confused and thought that he was Phil Ramone (famous producer) and got jealous. Regardless, some vintage Ramones-rock was put to tape. Check it out!

"What Is Life" George Harrison, from All Things Must Pass (1970) By far, my favorite work by Phil (and also my favorite by George). Some of the most emotional music I've ever heard is on this multi-LP set. This song, however, is one that reminds me of the original Spector sound, complete with pounding drums driving it home. Feel-good music, they call it. Side note: this song is also featured during a chase scene in "Goodfellas".

Do you have five in the chamber? Let's hear 'em!

My Pappy's A Pistol, I'm A Son Of A Gun

2005-03-14T09:27:00.001-08:00

Wow. It's been a while since I posted here. I forgot how much fun it was to do these little lists. Then again, time isn't always on my side. Damn time! You'll get your own list, Master Time!! Just wait and see!!!

Anyway, back to my objective. I'm heading out to the Viper Room tomorrow evening to catch a live showcase by Shooter Jennings. Shooter is the son of Waylon Jennings, and God Son of Johnny Cash. Well, his debut release, Put The O Back In Country, is just now hitting store shelves, and I thought it would be appropriate to post something.... well, relative.

Today's list.... The top five songs performed by the offspring of an established musician. Tougher list than I thought it was gonna be. In any case, here's to family tradition:

"Brink Of Love" Teddy Thompson, from Teddy Thompson (2000)
The son of folk legends, Richard & Linda Thompson. He's got the skills, folks (no pun intended). Cannot wait for his sophomore album down the road.

"Last Goodbye" Jeff Buckley, from Grace (1994) Another son-of-a-folkie, this time Tim Buckley. Brilliant talent, gone too soon, of course. Perhaps his story wouldn't have been as interesting had things not played out as they did. Thankfully the music remains. Peace, Jeff.

"Don't Cry Daddy" Lisa Marie Presley, unreleased bootleg (1997) Yeah, I know what you're thinking. Just listen up. This was recorded live "in concert" as a virtual duet with her dad, Elvis. Footage of E was shown on the big screens as his vocal track blended with his daugther's live vocal... complete with Elvis' original TCB band (James Burton, Ronnie Tutt, etc.), playing LIVE! Hot damn tamale!!

"Running Side Of Me" Dean Miller, from Dean Miller (1997) The wonderful wordsmith, Roger Miller, produced one fine songwriting son. Dean doesn't write the funny, novelty numbers that his pop is known for, but he has a firm grasp on the serious material that I hold as Roger's stronger side.

"Come Away With Me" Norah Jones, from Come Away With Me (2002) Not many people were aware of this, even after she drew all that attention following the Grammys a couple years ago, but Ms. Jones (if that's your real name) is none other than the daughter of Ravi Shankar (of Beatles fame... sorta). Another case of turning out totally different than your old man. Yet, the talent finds it's way out. Thank goodness.

Let's hear your top 5's, people!

The Day The Music Died...

2004-12-09T10:58:00.000-08:00

Today's posting comes in light of this morning's news regarding the shooting death of former Pantera guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott. I can't say that I was aware of this band at all in my lifetime, but it sure is a tragic thing to have a couple hundred people watching you perform on stage under the spotlight as you take 5 or 6 rounds to the head and upper torsoe. No doubt, this personally impacts those who followed Pantera over the years, just as much as fans of Great White had to deal with that wicked club fire about a year ago.

Today's list.... Applicable "swan songs" for five musicians whose deaths impacted my life in some memorable way. May they rest in peace.

Kurt Cobain (Nirvana) "I Hate My Life And I Want To Die" from The Beavis And Butt-Head Experience (1993)
April 5, 1994: Kinda hard to not read the signs here. He said he didn't have a gun. He said he wasn't gonna crack. Poor guy. Fame can really turn you the wrong way if you're not careful. Sure enough, a self-inflicted shotgun blast brought all the pain to an abrupt end. I remember getting the news just before I was to meet a blind date for dinner on a Friday night. Of course, it wasn't too shocking since there was that attempted drug overdose a month or so prior. My date had no idea who Nirvana was.

John Denver "Leaving On A Jet Plane" from Rhymes And Reasons (1969)
October 13, 1997: I grew up during the John Denver decade. He was all over the radio. He was on all the great all-star network shows. He was in Oh, God. He was everywhere. Many of his hits were branded into my memory at an early age, therefore, they always endured the times. Heard about his private plane crash one morning while getting ready to take my daughter to school. I tried to explain to her who he was and what he meant to me, but I couldn't really compare him to anyone in the late 90's. Carrot Top doesn't count.

Jerry Garcia (Grateful Dead) "He's Gone" from Europe `72 (1972)
August 9, 1995: I'm not the traditional deadhead. I've never done drugs in my life (unless you count the second-hand smoke at the four shows I went to). I got into them only after "Touch Of Gray" went top 40. Still, I can consider myself an expert on their extensive catalog of music thanks to my piqued curiosity and love for what most people dismiss. I heard about Jerry's death the morning they found him. I was getting ready for work and L.A. area DJ Nicole Sandler broke in with the news. It nearly stopped my heart. I was glued to the radio as I drove to work, and switched it on once I got there. After about an hour, I managed to get someone else to cover my shift so I could just take it all in. I went online (Prodigy... back in the day, folks) where everyone seemed to be pouring out their emotions. It was amazing to watch. Thankfully, I was able to take my daughter to see the Dead in Vegas in the summer of 1994. It's nice to be able to say you've seen some legends in your time.

John Lennon (the Beatles) "In My Life" from Rubber Soul (1965)
December, 8, 1980: I was eleven years old, and all I remember is watching Monday Night Football with my pop. Howard Cossell took a minute to read the news that was just being reported. John Lennon, shot by a fan in New York City. Thanks to channel 5 for playing Yellow Submarine on television several times in my youth, I was aware of the Beatles, on an animated level anyway. The news images of the candlelight vigils will always stick with me. I recall playing my ONE Beatles 45 ("Yellow Submarine" b/w "Eleanor Rigby") over and over in tribute... yes, even at that age. Is there any justification for taking the life of someone who has inspired so much love?

Elvis Presley "My Way" from Elvis In Concert (1977)
August 16, 1977: I'll never forget this one. It was an overcast day. I was running around with a friend of mine. I was wearing a bright red sweatshirt and blue Toughskins. It started to sprinkle a little bit, so I decided to come inside for the evening. The lights were low in the house. I walked into the kitchen and the radio was on with the news. I knew who he was and that this was important news. The world reeled in disbelief. Three days later, we lost Groucho Marx. I think that was the week where I learned to appreciate legacies that remain. That explains the 130+ Elvis CDs in my collection. He may have looked like complete Hell near the end, but he still had the voice... and he did it his way.

Feel free to share your own personal top fives.

Dave's Faves 2004

2004-12-01T09:01:00.000-08:00

I know this goes beyond a top five, but I promise to only do this once a year.

22 reasons why I love new music. Why 22? Well, if I take my favorite tracks from 22 particular albums released in 2004, a spectacular 80-minute CD can be made, encompassing my musical tastes for the year. And the winners are (in alphabetical order):

Joseph Arthur "In Ohio" from Our Shadows Will Remain
Black Keys "The Lengths" from Rubber Factory
Richard Buckner "Rafters" from Dents & Shells
Eugene Edwards "My Favorite Revolution" from My Favorite Revolution
The Elected "7 September 2003" from Me First
Amy Farris "Pretty Dresses" from Anyway
John Frusciante "Time Goes Back" from Shadows Collide With People
The Helio Sequence "S.O.S." from Love & Distance
Peter Himmelman "Racing Off To Nowhere" from Unstoppable Forces
The Holmes Brothers "Run Myself Out Of Town" from Simple Truths
Iron + Wine "Radio War" from Our Endless Numbered Days
Mark Knopfler "5:15 A.M." from Shangri La
Mary Lou Lord "Baby Blue" from Baby Blue
Los Lobos "Matter Of Time" from The Ride
Loretta Lynn "Portland, Oregon" from Van Lear Rose
Morrissey "First Of The Gang To Die" from You Are The Quarry
The Mountain Goats "Palmcorder Yajna" from We Shall All Be Healed
Willie Nelson "It Always Will Be" from It Always Will Be
A.C. Newman "Miracle Drug" from Slow Wonder
The Pink Mountaintops "Leslie" from The Pink Mountaintops
Ron Sexsmith "Hard Bargain" from Retriever
The Two Dollar Pistols "Too Bad That You're Gone" from Hands Up!

Don't be shy, folks. Let's see your year-end lists!

A LOW Point In My Life...

2004-11-30T10:55:00.000-08:00

Most of my friends have always known me to be a fan of sad songs. Blame it all on my classic country upbringing. I'd like to credit some of it to the Cowboy Junkies Trinity Sessions record. My girlfriend at the time HATED that record. More for me! Anyway, in tracing things back, the Velvet Underground played a heavy part in that laid back sound that is now often referred to as "slowcore" or "sadcore" music. I'm not saying that it's good to be sad. I tuned in to an interview with Margo Timmins on KCRW's "Snap" (hosted by the late Deirdre O'Donoghue) radio show in the late 1980's where she commented on the importance of feeling all emotions every so often as to not lose touch with their meaning and to stay in proper balance with those meanings. We all have soundtracks to our lives. We (and our music) can be aggressive, upbeat, depressed, indifferent... whatever. So, with that said... I recently emerged from some sort of hibernation which allowed me to not realize that a band called Low existed. I checked out an advance copy of their January 2005 release and was blown away. I cannot tell you how easy it was for me to embrace this trio from Duluth, Minnesota. Needless to say, I have been submersed in this band as of late, and I have some catching up to do.

When you're done making fun of me, feel free to check out the top five Low tracks that keep making me hit the repeat button.

"Don't Drop The Baby" from Lifetime Of Temporary Relief (2004)
A rarity from their recent box set, with quirky lyrics about the proper handling of infants. This one cracks me up, but at the same time, it reminds me of "Put Your Big Toe In The Milk Of Human Kindness" from Rob Wasserman's Trios record (featuring Elvis Costello on lead). Very jazz-standard meets vaudevillian-croon. Have I mentioned that I am in LOVE with Mimi Parker's voice? I think she could tell me to go to Hell and I would just melt (well, you know what I mean).

"Dinosaur Act" from Things We Lost In The Fire (2001)
Great melody and nice, vivid words. "And putting your foot down, the nail shot up like a bright red snowflake." Not the prettiest picture in the gallery, but I like it. More for me. ;-)

"Over The Ocean" from The Curtain Hits The Cast (1996)
Simply beautiful. Sure enough, this one is one of their more popular tracks... appearing as a video on their rarities box set as well as showing up on both of their two live albums.

"Just Stand Back" from The Great Destroyer (2005)
An upbeat track that reminds me much of the Blake Babies. Something about the line, "...I can turn on you so fast" that, depending on your footing, can leave you uneasy or give you a little boost of strength. In my case, I am feeling stronger every day.

"When I Go Deaf" from The Great Destroyer (2005)
Okay, just when I'm feeling stronger about things... I hear this track, and it tears me up. A song about losing your sense of hearing. I know, I know. I would be lost without sound. In this song, the singer embraces the inevitable by acknowledging that he would have to stop writing songs (perhaps the saddest thing ever), yet he and his lover would probably not fight any longer. Oh, the pro's and con's. And, just when the lyrical bottom seems to drop out on this faint acoustic ballad, the band explodes into a loud sonic triumph. Amazingly brilliant.

Tissues are available upon request.

Feel free to share your top five or relative comments.

We're Idaho! (tribute to Ralph Wiggum)

2004-11-24T21:09:00.000-08:00

Days like this remind me of some of the old road trips that my buddy Michael and I used to take out of state. Maybe it has to do with the chill in the air, or just being behind the wheel. Anyway, Mike and I had some great times, which are very well documented. Some of the memories that always stick with me involve the music we listened to or discovered at the time. Often we would visit Record Exchange when we made it up to Boise. We would even buy new stuff and get into it on the way home. Good times. What follows are some of my favorite musical memories with "Lefty":

Patty Griffin "Not Alone" from Living With Ghosts (1996)
I was already heavily into Patty's music at this time, and Mike and I had already experienced the film Niagara Niagara, which featured this song. Beautiful stuff. I brought this CD on one of our first trips, just to find myself falling asleep (as a passenger) while driving south into Nevada, and waking up to this album. I guess it was played over a couple times because it was so damn good. Glad to have turned Mike onto something new without forcing it. I love sharing good stuff.

The Beta Band "Dry The Rain" from The 3 E.P.s (1998)
Fresh off a viewing of High Fidelity, it was necessary to pick up the album from which this song came. Groovalicious, to say the least. Could be about 12 minutes longer, though.

Jimmy Page & The Black Crowes "Custard Pie" from Live At The Greek (2000)
The first trip to Boise: ...driving in the dark, in the middle of nowhere... with "ICE" displayed on the outside tempature readout. We decided to pull over and try to sleep, but it was too DAMN cold! So, we got back on the road with fumes in the tank. Idiots. Thankfully this Zeppelin set rocked us to safety.

Jayhawks "A Break In The Clouds" from Smile (2000)
I think this was Mike's introduction to this band. We both took a sincere liking to this one early on. I think he even bought a `Hawks CD at the RX. It helps to have that whole Wilco, Golden Smog background happening. I must say... the complete Jayhawks catalog is required listening. In fact, I'd base a whole road trip on the return of Jen Gunderman, if that ever happens.

Robert Bradley's Blackwater Surprise "Baby" from Time To Discover (2000)
Quite possibly the Holy Grail of road trip memories. I just found this song on a KGSR radio station compilation CD. When we got to Boise, and did some shopping at the RX, I found the full-length CD in the used bin and took a chance. I remember falling in love with the song all over again, and to be there the first time Mike heard it was classic. Since then, this song ALWAYS makes me happy. It's an instant cheer-up. I even played it at the last show I did in October to a packed house at the Liquid Lounge. I highly recommend anyone with soul to check this CD out. It will always be a favorite of mine, and it will always be tied into good times.

Feel free to share your favorite road trip soundtracks.

(Just Like) Starting Over

2004-11-23T10:55:00.000-08:00

As the scenery in my life changes over time... so does my zip code. Yes, it's that time again. Moving out of tha LBC and into the OC. It's funny, I've always been the one called when it was time to help a friend move because I've always had a truck. So, who do I call? ME! This'll be fun. I can't wait to get the place set up, though. If anyone wants to help, I'll buy the beer!

Here's five songs to put "us" in the mood:

Mary Margaret O'Hara "Rain" from Apartment Hunting (2002)
Not so much a song about moving, but rather a song from a soundtrack to a movie about moving. Still with me? This tune gets me every time. Some beautifully `verbed guitar work and Mary's trademark vocal delivery seal the deal. Her music is an acquired taste... and thankfully, I've acquired it! Ask me to include her stuff on a mix CD if you're curious.

Billy Joel "Movin' Out (Anthony's Song)" from The Stranger (1977)
A song of hope if ever there was one... expecially if your name is Anthony. Well, regardless, I'm movin' out just about as quickly as Billy Joel can wrap a car around a tree, but hopefully not as often.

Elvis Costello "Home Is Anywhere You Hang Your Head" from Blood & Chocolate (1986)
It's true. I've been happy living in a house, a townhome, a studio in the ghetto... I can be happy anywhere. Now that I think about it, Mr. Costello's music has roomed with me at every abode. Where's your half of the rent, "Elvis"?

Ja'net DuBois - "Movin' On Up" from The Jeffersons (1975)
Did I mention that the place I found is on the second story? Did I also mention that I was buying the beer if any of you help me lug my stuff up those stairs?

Elvis Costello "So Like Candy" from Mighty Like A Rose (1991)
I'm only including this one for the reference to getting back some albums (that she managed to ruin) from a lover who felt it necessary to say the following: "My darling dear, it's such a waste". The singer adds, "She didn't say `goodbye', but `I admire your taste'." I'm not saying that I'm living this particular line. But, as Woody Allen claimed in Annie Hall - and I'm paraphrasing - "All the books on Death & Western Thought are mine... and all the books on cats are yours."

A Toast In Rememberance...

2004-11-21T18:44:00.000-08:00

Got word over the weekend that my Aunt Fran (center in the above picture) was killed in an automobile accident in Florida. My heart goes out to my cousin, Kim. She didn't get a chance to say goodbye... something I was fortunate enough to have when my parents passed away. Music always has a place in my life, no matter how hard the times can be. In fact, music can often act as a warm hug and a necessary forced smile. Just enough to know that everything will be alright, somehow.

"You're Always Going Too Soon" Matthew Jay (2001)
"...all this time has fallen through me since you've been gone."

"Goodbye" Emmylou Harris (1995)
"...most Novembers I break down and cry."

"Black" Pearl Jam (1991)
"...and now my bitter hands cradle broken glass of what was everything."

"Road" Nick Drake (1972)
"...you can take the road that takes you to the stars now, I can take a road that'll see me through."

"Life Without You" Stevie Ray Vaughan (1985)
"...all the love you've passed our way. The angels have waited for so long. Now they have their way. Take your place."

I'll post a happier top 5 soon... Please drive safely.

Soundtrack For 11/17/04

2004-11-17T14:55:00.000-08:00

Folks who previously read this post... I apologize. I accidentally deleted my text. So from memory, here's what I pretty much conveyed:

CD's brought to work today:

Smile - Jayhawks (2001)
7 Park Avenue - Pete Ham (1997)
Love Is Hell - Ryan Adams (2004)
The Tigers Have Spoken - Neko Case (2004)
Kimi Ga Suki * Raifu - Matthew Sweet (2003)

I had also typed some text for each of them. If I wasn't so lazy at the moment, I'd type it all over again... but that takes thinking. ;-) Forgive me.

Please share what you're listening to.

Just Wondering...

2004-11-14T21:43:00.000-08:00

Found myself watching "Wonderland" this evening. Great film! It explores the darker side of John Holmes' life. A time which tied him into the murder of several people in the Los Angeles area. Great cinematography, and above all... a kick ass soundtrack! Today's list: top 5 songs in this film.

"Shooting Star" Bad Company (1975)
"Drift Away" Dobie Gray (1973)
"Stranglehold" Ted Nugent (1975)
"Quinn The Eskimo" Bob Dylan (1970)
"If You Could Read My Mind" Gordon Lightfoot (1970)

Readers out there are welcome to offer their own top 5 songs in any particular film you choose. Play along!

Chillin' With Dylan

2004-11-10T15:15:00.000-08:00

Breaking away from the "current events" trend of my postings, I've opted to get back to the music today. Bob Dylan ranks as the singer-songwriter of our time by the standards of many. He may not be singing with Outkast or writing material for Snoop's next record, but his influence is evident in the world we live in. Sure, he may not be "hot" according to Paris Hilton, and it may be hard not to mock his voice when he comes up in casual conversation, but Bob Dylan is important.

From the archives of my massive music collection... I've uncovered five Bob Dylan songs that I would prefer not to live without. And, for the first time, I will tell ya why.

"Tonight I'll Be Staying Here With You" from Nashville Skyline (1969)
From Bob's "nasally" period. The one album where he sounded like this. Fifteen years after owning Bob's Greatest Hits album, the hits became less important than the deep album cuts. This album was purchased during a personal roots revival period, and was further vitalized by this track's background appearance in the John Cusack film High Fidelity.

"If Not For You" from The Bootleg Series, Vol. 1-3: 1961-1991 (1970)
Of course, this song has long been a favorite of mine ever since I picked up George Harrison's All Things Must Pass. However, this version is the quintessential take... an alternate, informal run-through with the legendary Beatle. Needless to say, the pairing of George's guitar and Bob's yearning vocal on this recording is nothing short of jaw-dropping. I bought this set before I was a hardcore Dylan fan, mainly because my collection demanded more "bootleg" material. Glad I did.

"Like A Rolling Stone" from Before The Flood (1974)
Yeah... this one is a "hit", I know. The difference is in the performance. I recall getting wrapped up in a film called New York Stories, which was comprised of three short films by different directors. One of the films starred Nick Nolte as a tortured artist. During one angry painting scene, his boom box is blasting this amazing, rocking cover of "Like A Rolling Stone". A cover? Nope. I soon discovered that it was Bob, backed by the Band, recorded live in concert (captured on Before The Flood). This would only lead in to researching more facets of Bob's career and ultimately The Last Waltz (thank goodness). Like I need to keep opening more doors...

"Tangled Up In Blue" from Blood On The Tracks (1975)
Of all things, I blame KLOS for this one. It was summertime in the mid 80's, and I was driving near PCH. "Tangled..." came on and I spent the next five and a half minutes in awe as the details of this song-story rushed past me. I'll never forget hearing, "Early one mornin' the sun was shinin', I was layin' in bed. Wond'rin' if she'd changed at all. If her hair was still red." Loose ends always make for great beginnings... middles.. and ends to songs. When was the last time you heard a song go longer than five minutes on the radio?

"Most Of The Time" from Oh Mercy (1989)
Now, decidely the one Bob Dylan song that moves me like no other. Thank you Nick Hornby for High Fidelity. This song appeared in the film adaptation of the book, in a very poignant and emotional scene. That's all it took. This masterpiece of a song has the best bass line ever, so don't blame me if you play this one over and over again. The lyrics are desperate denials of our hero's baggage, and his inability to cleanly cut his ties. "I don't even care if I ever see her again. Most of the time." Brilliant and infectious. A perfect drinking partner for the broken-hearted.

Separated At Birth?

2004-11-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

After taking over a month off from the daily Hi-Fives blog entries, I've decided to give it a go once again. Let's see if I can handle posting only once a week.

This week's topic revolves around the declining health and premature death announcements of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. Even in a coma, he's been able to milk his share of headline fame for the past week or so. Now that everyone's paying attention, here are five songs for this fading foreigner:

"Goodbye Cruel World" Pink Floyd (1979)
"In My Time Of Dying" Led Zeppelin (1975)
"Leaving Here" High Numbers a.k.a. the Who (1964)
"O Death" Ralph Stanley (2000)
"Slipping Away" Rolling Stones (1989)

Cat Got Your.... I.D.?

2004-09-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

Now this is ridiculous. Former pop star, Cat Stevens (now Yusuf Islam), was denied entry into the United States after appearing on an F.B.I. national security alert list while his flight was already en route to Washington. Islam's flight was forced to land in Maine, where he was detained and questioned. He is in the process of being deported and sent back to the Hell from which he came... or London. Nonetheless, it seems the world is going nowhere fast when the man who wrote "Peace Train" and "I Love My Dog" could be considered a threat of any kind. Being a fan of Cat, I'm sticking with his material for today's list. The topic... is obvious.

"But I Might Die Tonight" Cat Stevens (1970)
"I Have No Cannons That Roar" Yusuf Islam (2000)
"Miles From Nowhere" Cat Stevens (1970)
"Tuesday's Dead" Cat Stevens (1971)
"Wild World" Cat Stevens (1970)

I'd Rather Not Say....

2004-09-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

Dan Rather publicly apologized for his failure to verify a document which he based a news report on, which criticized George W. Bush's military record. The document was supposedly forged, leaving veteran news anchor, Rather, in a... rather sticky situation. Give the guy a break. I mean, we need him around to cover the next presidential assasination, right? Here are the top five news songs at the top of the hour:

"All Apologies" Nirvana (1993)
"Dirty Laundry" Don Henley (1982)
"How's Your News?" the How's Your News singers (2001)
"Two Story House" George Jones/Tammy Wynette (1980)
"What's The Frequency, Kenneth?" R.E.M. (1994)

Oops!

2004-09-20T01:42:00.000-07:00

She did it again. Britney Spears married her back-up dancer in a spontaneous, trash-style wedding over the weekend, confirming what we already suspected. This chick is nuts! This one ought to be easy, folks. Gimme five!

Five songs that could have easily been played as the wedding march:

"Dancin' Fool" Frank Zappa (1979)
"It's All Over Now" the Rolling Stones (1964)
"Labour Of Love" the Kinks (1983)
"My Favorite Mistake" Sheryl Crow (1998)
"White Wedding, Pt. 1" Billy Idol (1982)

Top Tube

2004-09-19T10:49:00.000-07:00

The Emmy awards are tonight! Hooray! I don't watch much TV these days, so I will not dare cast my predictions. Instead, I will offer my favorite TV themes of my time. Repeats are allowed under syndication.

"Fat Albert Theme" Fat Albert & the Cosby Kids (1972)
"Good Ol' Boys (theme from The Dukes Of Hazard" Waylon Jennings (1978)
"The Greatest American Hero (Believe It Or Not)" Joey Scarbury (1980)
"The Lonely Man Theme (The Incredible Hulk closing theme)" Joe Harnell (1977)
"Sanford & Son Theme (The Streetbeater)" Quincy Jones (1973)

Not Home, Just Alone

2004-09-18T09:19:00.000-07:00

"Home Alone" star and friend of Michael Jackson, Macaulay Culkin, was arrested and jailed Friday in Oklahoma City on possession of a controlled substance in addition to marijuana. Culkin was also carrying $3,000 in cash, and as if this was some sort of twisted b-movie, his bail was set at $4,000. We've seen it all before... child actors gone bad. Let's hear what you got.

Five songs that could serve as the soundtrack to Culkin's latest, and most challenging role:

"The Green, Green Grass Of Home" Roger Miller (1967)
"Lost Highway" Hank Williams (1952)
"Okie From Muskogee" Merle Haggard (1970)
"Shooting Star" Bad Company (1975)
"Tired Eyes" Neil Young (1975)

See Ya Later, Nader Gator

2004-09-17T07:47:00.000-07:00

In a not-so-surprising move, a Florida circuit judge ordered that Ralph Nader's name be removed from the 2004 presidential election ballot in that state. Having made the switch from Green to Reform, Nader has seen about as much trouble as he can (with that one good eye, anyway.) Knowing that every strong campaign needs a theme song, I'd like Ralph to consider these five:

"Bein' Green" Don Henley & Kermit the Frog (1995)
"Fight For Your Right" Beastie Boys (1986)
"I Don't Want To Spoil The Party" the Beatles (1964)
"I Wanna Be A Boss" Stan Ridgway (1991)
"Running On Empty" Jackson Browne (1977)

P.S. "No Surrender" has already been licensed out.

Johnny Ramone R.I.P.

2004-09-16T09:41:00.000-07:00

The sad news came late Wednesday. Johnny Ramone, iconic guitarist for the Ramones, passed away after a five-year fight with prostate cancer. In place of my regularly scheduled top five list, I would like to dedicate today's list to my favorite Ramones cuts. Share your own. Share your memories. Do YOU remember rock `n' roll radio?

"Beat On The Brat" the Ramones (1976)
"Do You Remember Rock `N' Roll Radio?" the Ramones (1980)
"I Wanna Be Sedated" the Ramones (1978)
"The KKK Took My Baby Away" the Ramones (1981)
"Pet Semetary" the Ramones (1990)

Bonus trivia: The Ramones were named after the alias Paul McCartney would sometimes use when checking into hotels during early Beatles tours... Paul Ramone.

Attack Of Frank 'n' Chair

2004-09-15T07:52:00.000-07:00

Those are supposed to be the good seats! Well, Monday night's basebrawl in Oakland turned out to be a no-sitter. And for that, we have the inspiration for today's top five list. In honor of broken noses, flying chairs, and pitcher Frank "Freakout" Francisco... Here's mine:

Five songs that should have been played during the 19 minute break-in-the-action.

"Big Balls" AC/DC (1981)
"Hit Me With Your Best Shot" Pat Benatar (1983)
"Centerfield" John Fogerty (1985)
"Danger Zone" Kenny Loggins (1986)
"Eye Of The Tiger" Survivor (1982)

Hurricane Ivan

2004-09-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

Okay folks, for our debut posting... I'd like to ask you what five songs you'd like to have cranked if you were buried up to your neck in the sand on a Louisiana beach as Hurricane Ivan comes ashore. Here's mine:

"Windy" the Association (1967)
"Catch A Wave" the Beach Boys (1963)
"Let It Rain" Eric Clapton (1970)
"Storm Front" Billy Joel (1989)
"Full Force Gale" Van Morrison (1979)