tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12018525922243098302023-11-16T04:20:32.849-08:00The Ramblings of a ChicagoanChi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.comBlogger418125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-74015159827186495942020-05-31T18:32:00.002-07:002020-05-31T18:32:29.790-07:00Not Posting EnoughYou would think with everything going on, I would be posting more. There's so much to process. It's utterly surreal.Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-2189996691958232182020-05-29T08:36:00.001-07:002020-05-31T18:36:37.490-07:00The History of Q101 with JVO<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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Last week, something took place, which reminded me why I love radio. 101WKQX's morning show did a 34 hour radioathon to raise money for Chicago music venues. The cause was great, but the content was even better. Hosts Brian, Ali, and Justin were able to break the "modern radio rules", and go old school with the broadcast. Talking segments were substantial and entertaining, deep cuts were played, and you never knew who was going to call in.<br />
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It was awesome! It had the vibe that anything could happen, and if you turned your radio off, you would miss something important. It made me I feel nostalgic about old school radio, specifically old Q101. So I went to my bookcase and starting thumbing through James VanOsdol's book on Q101 'We Appreciate Your Enthusiasm: The Oral History of Q101.'</div>
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It's a great book, and if you are any bit curious about the history of one of Chicago's most infamous radio stations, it's a must read. The book also lead to one of my all-time favorite interviews, James VanOsdol known on-air as JVO. Growing up, JVO was my favorite DJ, so talking to him was a BIG deal for me. Listening back to this interview makes me smile. </div>
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I've included it <a href="https://soundcloud.com/lookingglasspodcast/the-history-of-q101-with-jvo" target="_blank">here</a>. *</div>
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<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/828621736&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><br />
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<a href="https://soundcloud.com/lookingglasspodcast" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Looking Glass Podcast">Looking Glass Podcast</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/lookingglasspodcast/the-history-of-q101-with-jvo" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="The History Of Q101 with JVO">The History Of Q101 with JVO</a></div>
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*Soundcloud appears to be down and won't let me embed the file. Once this issue is fixed, I'll embed.<br />
**The share button has returned!!!</div>
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Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-61274202271217045492020-05-28T17:57:00.001-07:002020-05-28T17:57:41.870-07:00Moby's Seventeenth Album 'All Visible Objects' is a Career Reflection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Over his 30 year plus music career, Moby has evolved from a techno dance master to an alternative pop hit maker to an Avant-Guard <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphonic_poem">tone poem</a> composer. With his new album ‘All Visible Objects’, he takes all of these musical styles and genres and puts them together on a single record.<br />
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The album can be divided into two parts. The first part is very disco-y dance pop heavy with tracks like <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpMijLl9Lfc">Morning Side</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMhwSmiRmWM">Refuge</a>, or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPGXnhvEp9k">Power is Taken</a>. In fact, any of these new songs would fit perfectly alongside his earlier work like <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLjCEZiJohc">My Beautiful Blue Sky</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WywzWjZATKA">Drop a Beat</a>, or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGfDrnmnjIg">Electricity</a>. (All of these tracks can be found on his self-titled debut and sophomore follow-up ‘Ambient’.) It’s safe to say, this first part will have you reminiscing for early 90s techno.<br />
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The second part of the album consists of the final four songs, and is more in line with his later, more melodic albums ‘Wait for Me’, ‘Destroyed’, or ‘Innocents’. Rich in melody and clocking in at a whopping 33 minutes 19 seconds, these final songs illustrated Moby’s skill at composing beautiful and haunting songs.<br />
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So, the question, does this album work? In all openness, I don’t know. I think ‘All Visible Objects’ would best be served by picking one musical style and sticking to it. The changes in genres can be very jarring, due to how different they are. For example, the opening track Morning Side is followed by a melodic song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNUwv4BjpIw">My Only Love</a>, which is then followed by a massive dance song Refuge. The dancing themes go through the rest of the album until the final four tracks. I should mention, in full disclosure, I do prefer Moby’s latter, more melodic work. So the second part of this album is what I will be going back to in the future.<br />
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But, if you are looking for an album that could serve as a retrospect of Moby’s entire career, capturing his musical evolution, this might just be the album for you. There isn’t a “standout” single, but taken as a whole, you’ll get a great view of Moby’s career.Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-54452851222465143392020-05-13T13:16:00.002-07:002020-05-13T13:16:27.725-07:00 'Esmé Patterson Channels Ray Bradbury on Latest Album ‘There Will Come Soft Rains’<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So I wrote an album review for WXAV.com. I think it turned out pretty good. I hope you enjoy it and listen to the album.<br />
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‘There Will Come Soft Rains’ isn’t just a short story in Ray Bradbury’s seminal work <em>The Martian Chronicles</em>; it’s also the title and inspiration of Esmé Patterson’s fourth solo album released in March of 2020.<br />
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I first heard of Patterson a few years ago when she and William Elliott Whitmore participated in the ‘Play Each Other’s Songs’ series. I was immediately taken by Patterson’s cover of ‘<a href="https://youtu.be/56yOCFNVsBY">Not Feeling Pain Anymore</a>’. Her vocal performance on the song is utterly beautiful. There’s a strength to her voice that is yet underlined by a vulnerability that creates this balance that immediately connections the listener to her.<br />
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Needless to say, that strength and vulnerability carry over to ‘There Will Come Soft Rains’, as it does not disappoint in its catchiness, hooks, lyrical content, and overall beauty. Patterson’s vocals sound almost angelic on ‘<a href="https://youtu.be/jb1NYR0Bflg">Light in Your Window</a>’. There’s a longing in this song that is so relatable. Add to that an incredible 80s sounding synth keyboard, and you have pure perfection. For me, this is the standout track of the album.<br />
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In addition to a cool 80s pop vibe on ‘Light in Your Window’ and ‘<a href="https://youtu.be/2jVRCcb4UW8">Shelby Tell Me Everything</a>’, she is able to achieve a funky blues vibe on ‘<a href="https://youtu.be/N--Sf1xFh8A">Out The Door</a>’, an indie alternative vibe on almost like the Black Keys on ‘<a href="https://youtu.be/LVdH69T285w">Sleeping Around</a>’, and an almost singer/songwriter style on ‘<a href="https://youtu.be/6pd6_pJGzvA">Take It Easy</a>’. You could almost say, there’s a little bit of everything on ‘There Will Come Soft Rains’.<br />
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On an album description sheet sent to WXAV, Patterson describes the songs as the album as: “…echo[ing] the surrender of starting over and failing and starting over again many times. I was hoping to convey the bittersweet peace of letting go alongside the courage to start again, being swallowed by fear and pain and coming out the other side stronger.”
I couldn’t agree more.<br />
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If you are looking for an album of great indie-pop music with deeply personal lyrics, look no further than ‘There Will Come Soft Rains’. It’s one of my favorite albums of 2020. Also, read Bradbury’s short story. It’s incredible too.<br />
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Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-48851755042821218352020-04-16T14:11:00.003-07:002020-04-16T14:11:35.834-07:001973: A Surprisingly Great Year of Solo Beatles Albums<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">1973 is typically not the year you think of when someone mentions great “Beatles” music. The band had been broken up for three years, and John, Paul, George, and Ringo were all well established in their solo careers. But what if I were to tell you that in 1973, each of them released an incredible album? Because that’s exactly what happened.</span></div>
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There was a total of five albums released in 1973. While a few of them are “lesser known” albums; a couple of them are pure masterpieces. Let’s take a moment and explore each one individually.</div>
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<b style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;">Paul McCartney and Wings: Red Rose Speedway</b><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"> Released April 30, 1973.</span><br />
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The McCartney machine was in full swing as Sir Paul would release two albums in 1973, along with three of his most popular singles (<b>C Moon</b>, <b>Hi, Hi, Hi</b>, and <b>Live and Let Die</b>.) While Red Rose Speedway is not the most well-known of his albums, it does contain the song <b>My Love</b>. An incredible tribute to his wife Linda McCartney, My Love has gone on to become a staple at any McCartney show.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>George Harrison: Living in the Material World</b> Released May 30, 1973<o:p></o:p></div>
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Living in the Material World had the unenviable task of following Harrison’s masterpiece solo debut All Things Must Pass. Out of all of George’s solo albums, Living in the Material World is his most spiritual. With songs like: <b>Give Me Love, Give Me Peace on Earth</b>, <b>Be Here Now</b>, and <b>The Day the World Gets Round</b>, it’s like an open invitation from Harrison to join him on his spiritual quest for enlightenment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>John Lennon: Mind Games</b> Released October 29, 1973<o:p></o:p></div>
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In my opinion, Mind Games is Lennon’s most underrated solo album. Recorded at a turbulent time in his life (the Nixon White House was working to deport Lennon and he had just separated from Yoko Ono), Mind Games finds John struggling to continue. Yet through all of this heartache, pain, and fear; Lennon crafts an album full of humor, beauty, and top-tapping music. Highlights include: <b>Tight A$, Bring on the Lucie (Freda Peeple), and Out the Blue</b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Ringo Starr: Ringo</b> Released November 2, 1973<o:p></o:p></div>
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If there is one album from this list that you should go out of your way to listen to, it’s this one. Ringo puts together an album of great pop-rock songs that have stood the test of time. From <b>I’m the Greatest</b> to <b>Photograph</b> to<b> Oh My My</b>, Ringo is without a doubt the best solo album from Starr. Add to that, this album is the closet we ever got to a “proper” Beatles reunion album as John, Paul, and George all contribute to this incredible debut album.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Paul McCartney and Wings: Band on the Run</b> Released December 5, 1973<o:p></o:p></div>
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What can we say about Band on the Run that hasn’t already been said before? It truly is a masterpiece. It’s one of the best albums of the 1970s and McCartney’s best solo album. It’ll get you rocking from the very first note, and hold you to the very last. And how could it not, with songs like: <b>Band on the Run</b>, <b>Jet</b>, <b>Let Me Roll It</b>, and <b>Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five</b>. This album is pure perfection.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And there you have it. The five albums each former Beatle released in 1973. If you have a moment, check them out. I promise you won’t be disappointed.<i><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-5118143953504661062020-03-26T11:53:00.002-07:002020-03-26T11:53:31.745-07:00Audio Journaling During COVID-19<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF0IYHTPzasBOHFhQXX8nAoDP_UpVyA0jQ3N9gpYcwRw3Smb1Rbiit1Fq7UrDo30WJ8JBfsXilMgYoum-kKeIPsSvCl_ei9SRBL54kBx_squ6B_haj8JwyMBNSd59q8Q9s2f2zQ6DmwmSe/s1600/Photo+on+3-26-20+at+1.51+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF0IYHTPzasBOHFhQXX8nAoDP_UpVyA0jQ3N9gpYcwRw3Smb1Rbiit1Fq7UrDo30WJ8JBfsXilMgYoum-kKeIPsSvCl_ei9SRBL54kBx_squ6B_haj8JwyMBNSd59q8Q9s2f2zQ6DmwmSe/s320/Photo+on+3-26-20+at+1.51+PM.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Wonderful Audio Recorder</td></tr>
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I decided to keep an audio journal during the Coronavirus outbreak. I don't know yet what I'll do with the audio. I don't even know if I'm going to publish it. But I think it'll be an incredible artifact to have of what my life was like during this historical event, and have my real time thoughts and feelings discussed and heard. Could be something I share with my family in the future.<br />
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Selfishly, it also give me an opportunity to get behind a microphone, and stay sharp. I recorded my first entry about an hour ago, and these are the questions I'm going to focus on for each entry:<br />
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1. Any new developments and reactions to them.<br />
2. How am I doing physically and emotionally. How is my family doing?<br />
3. What's the overall experience been like?<br />
4. Any thoughts or reaction as a whole to what has been going on, or towards to developments.<br />
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I think these questions will provide fertile discussion points for my audio journal.Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-49524794394246882412020-03-25T12:42:00.001-07:002020-03-25T12:42:18.544-07:00Lost and Found Sounds: The Rise and Fall and Rise of Thomas Edison Part IDuring these stressful and uncertain times, I've turned to podcasts as sources of entertainment and distractions. One series in particular has offered much needed reprise from the modern world, and I hope you'll give it a listen.<br />
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Davia Nelson and Nikki Silva, better known as the Peabody Award Winning independent producers 'The Kitchen Sisters', produced an incredible series entitled "Lost and Found Sounds", which aired on All Things Considered on NPR. Described on its <a href="http://www.kitchensisters.org/stories/lost-found-sound/" target="_blank">website</a> as "Richly layered tales chronicling people possessed by sound who shaped the sonic landscape of the nation."<br />
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I LOVE this series. I love it when storytellers are able to tell you a familiar story, but from a totally different and unusual perspective. That's exactly what "Lost and Found Sounds" is. Here's my favorite episode thus far, it's entitled: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/fugitivewaves/the-rise-and-fall-and-rise-and" target="_blank">The Rise and Fall and Rise of Thomas Edison Part 1. </a>Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-28098048150863940642020-02-29T18:19:00.001-08:002020-02-29T18:19:25.442-08:00Peter and The Case of the Mysterious RecordWorking with my friend Rob is nothing short of an adventure. I never know what projects will come my way. All I know is that each will be unique, challenging, and fun. The last project is exactly that. For the second year in a row, the College Radio Foundation is publishing a fanzine for Vinylthon. The article I contributed this year is entitled: 'Peter and the Case of the Mysterious Record'. I had a blast writing it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sherlock Holmes and the Voice of Terror Photo Credit: Me</td></tr>
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When I say <i>vinyl records,</i> most of us will immediately think of music. Let’s face it, music and vinyl records go together like grilled cheese and tomato soup, Chicago in the summer time, politics and corruption. Well what if I were to tell you that music on vinyl records is only half the experience?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A couple of years ago, I went record shopping with my best friend Rob. After hitting up my usual spots in the store, I wandered over to the little visited “Soundtracks/Sound Effects/ Spoken Word” section. You know the section I’m referring to. It’s the section in the store that gets all of the weird and unusual records that no one else wants. <o:p></o:p></div>
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While thumbing through, I came across a copy of <i>Sherlock Holmes and the Voice of Terror.</i> I was intrigued. You see, this wasn’t a regular record. This was the actual movie, minus the pictures, obviously. Growing up with a father who is a die-hard Sherlock Holmes fan, I am very familiar with the films starring the character, and <i>The Voice of Terror</i> is one we both enjoyed. So for the low price of $1, I took the risk and purchased it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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What transpired later that night when I went to play it can only be described as an auditory delight. As the record played and I listened to the movie, my imagination took over and guided me on a journey where the film became alive with action, adventure, drama, and friendship. The stakes were high, and only Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson would be able to defeat the villains and save England from inevitable defeat during World War II.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I was immediately hooked and began my journey in collecting unusual albums, including the rest of the Basil Rathbone Sherlock Holmes series. I discovered that vinyl records are so much more than great musical delivery devices. These pieces of plastic are powerful devices of imagination. The sounds they are able to produce enable their listeners to travel anywhere in the universe without having to leave the comfort of their living room. I don’t say this lightly, but I put them on par with the power of reading books. They are a gateway into your mind’s eye.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So the next time you are in your favorite record shop, why not wander over to that little visited section of spoken word, radio dramas, sound design, and movie soundtracks. I promise you, what awaits you is a whole new listening experience, one that only a record can bring to you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-48593689217676761272020-02-24T11:09:00.001-08:002020-02-24T11:09:27.633-08:00A Love Letter to Radio: An Audio Essay Completed VersionI've been meaning to share this all month, but to say February has been busy would be an understatement. For that's for another story. What you'll find in this post may be the best audio piece I have ever produced. The stars really seemed to align and come together to produce something truly unique and special. From the variety of voices involved to Andrew Bird's music to this being played in the very room that wireless technology was created!!!<br />
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Frankly, if this were the last audio piece I were to ever create, I would be going out on a high note. I hope you enjoy it, as much as I do.<br />
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<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/758287711&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe>Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-44768624901200162772020-01-29T18:12:00.002-08:002020-01-29T18:12:44.766-08:00'A Love Letter to Radio: An Audio Essay'Last week, one of my closest friends and radio mentors called and asked if I would provide him with two minutes audio, which he will then play in the room where Guglielmo Marconi invented the wireless telegraph and radio!!!<br />
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Rob, is an amazing individual, and he was offered the opportunity to do a live simulcast from the Marconi museum in Italy. Always being the one to share the wealth, he called and asked if I would be interested in providing him two minutes of audio, and then he would play it on the simulcast, and in the literal room where it was invented. For me, this is beyond cool! My voice will echo in the very room where one of the single greatest inventions ever was created!!!<br />
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I feel like I'm being repetitive, but I feel that it is warranted. I want to be able to properly convey how excited I am about this opportunity. Now coming up with an idea was truly daunting. I wanted to properly articulate my passion, while at the same time sharing the wealth with others, just as Rob did with me.<br />
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So I wrote this audio essay. I'm working on getting as many different voices on it as possible. Majority of the voices are current students of mine or co-workers. I wish I had more time to get friends and family involved. I am slightly nervous, I really want this to turn out well. I think it will. The sound designing element has been a challenge, but I think it is coming around nicely. I won't know until its done. Fingers crossed. (Below is a draft. I'm still fine tuning it as I record.)<br />
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<b><u>'A Love Letter to Radio: An Audio Essay'</u></b></div>
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What does radio mean to me?</div>
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Music. News. Sports. Connection. Personality. Community. World Radio Day. Theater of the Mind. College. Old Fashioned. Everywhere.</div>
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Without the birth of radio, we wouldn't be able to enjoy:</div>
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Podcasts. Cellphones. Wireless Internet. Satellite Radio. Seamless Communication across the world. </div>
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Superman wouldn't have flight</div>
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And the Maritans wouldn't have invaded New Jersey</div>
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We would have never known how comforting a fireside chat could be</div>
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Or hear the utter devastation of a World War</div>
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Because of radio, we know the difference between AM and FM</div>
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Why transistors are so important</div>
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And just how rebellious Rock N' Roll is</div>
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This is all due to the Guglielmo Marconi's great invention</div>
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Though some may view radio as old fashioned</div>
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We view it as revolutionary. </div>
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And so, let's celebrate Marconi and the wonderful invention he gave to the world. </div>
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Happy World Radio Day. </div>
Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-68745355515791320552020-01-19T12:59:00.002-08:002020-01-19T13:00:25.370-08:00Missed Favorite Album of 2019I am highly disappointed in myself. Upon reviewing my favorite albums of 2019 post, I discovered that I forgot to include one of my favorite albums of 2019. In fact, this album was my number favorite album of the year for a good portion of the year, making this oversight slightly embarrassing for me.<br />
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<b>1-A. Rhiannon Giddens with Francesco Turrisi: There Is No Other</b><br />
There Is No Other is one of the most unique sounding albums I've heard in 2019. Giddens, along with Turrisi, craft an album that features the sounds of Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and American roots/folks music. What should be a clash of styles blends into this other worldly sound that sounds ancient yet modern at the same time. Giddens is the star of this record. From her lyrics to her banjo playing, she takes the listener on a spiritual journey on this album. This was my first complete album of hers that I've listened too, and I can't wait to dive deeper into her discography.Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-77885977351139397532020-01-10T13:20:00.002-08:002020-01-10T13:20:47.404-08:00My First Post of 2020: My Audio Essay on College Radio<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/740208748&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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For my first post of 2020, I would like to share my latest audio essay. This is a personal one for me, as it focuses on how college radio changed my life.Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-74394186108411290422019-12-31T14:31:00.000-08:002019-12-31T14:31:50.689-08:00My Last Post of 2019Hard to believe that tonight is New Year's Eve. Time just has a way of flying by. As John Lennon said in the song <b>Beautiful Boy</b>: "Life is what happens while your busy making other plans". Such a true statement. Add to the excitement of starting a new year, we will also be starting a new decade. The "Roaring 20s...Part 2".<br />
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I wonder what we will see over the next ten years? Will we begin addressing climate change? Will our political wounds heal? What does the MCU have in store for us in phase 4??? So many questions. Just need to sit back, and enjoy the ride.<br />
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Also, here's a cool fact, as of tomorrow, this blog will be active across three decades. The 00s, the Teens, and soon to be the 20s.Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-59935462854396896952019-12-28T06:00:00.000-08:002019-12-31T14:26:48.512-08:00Albums of the DecadeIn less than a week, we will be leaving the decade of the teens, and entering the promise of a new decade. The Roaring '20s, part 2. Because of this, I thought it would be fun to go back and reflect on what some of my favorite albums of the decade have been. The teens have produced some absolutely incredible albums and should be celebrated. Let's go back and see what some of the standouts have been. You'll also see my initial reaction to each album.<br />
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<b>Frightened Rabbit: The Winter of Mixed Drinks (2010)</b><br />
I first heard of Frightened Rabbit about a month ago when I was listening to my old college radio station, and since then I cannot stop listening to them. Frightened Rabbit mainly writes about relationships that have taken a wrong turn, relationships that are ending, or how a relationship can save an individual. The beauty is they take a totally different perspective on this old chestnut, and the music is fantastic. I cannot recommend this album enough. Please take the time and check this band out. You will not be disappointed.<br />
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<b>LCD Soundsystem: This Is Happening (2010)</b><br />
This album is already getting universal praise from music critics. And it deserves it. This is Happening is a brilliant pop dance album by James Murphy. Five years from now, you will still be listening to this album and still find enough little diddies to keep you interesting.<br />
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<b>The National: High Violet (2010)</b><br />
Like LCD Soundsystem’s album, the new National is getting universal praise from music critics and it deserves it. High Violet deals with love lost, and loneliness, all set to very dark music. It’s epic, and it deals with subject matter that anyone can relate to. It’s a great album to listen to on headphones.<br />
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<b>Arcade Fire: The Suburbs (2010)</b><br />
Within a few seconds of hitting play on the Suburbs, you already know that this is a special album. The band creates an incredible picture of suburban life, and how it effects those who grew up in the suburbs. Pure and simply, The Suburbs is a masterpiece.<br />
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<b>Frank Turner: England Keep My Bones (2011)</b><br />
HOLY CRAP!!! Is this a great album. Turner covers a wide range of topics on this album, from friendship to religion, and the power of rock n’ roll. And though I do not agree with everything Turner says on this album, I have nothing but respect for him as an artist. This is a brave album, and will be like a fine wine. As it ages, it will only get better.<br />
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<b>William Elliott Whitmore: Field Songs (2011)</b><br />
I love this album. 9 songs that capture the feeling and struggle of the middle class/ working poor of the United States. The album is breath taking. It is poetic, yet simplistic. A celebration of nature and the human spirit. Whitmore continues to grow and develop as an artist. The way he is developing, I see him becoming the voice of a generation, much like Johnny Cash or Tom Waits. If there is one album you were going to buy this year, you should buy this one.<br />
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<b>Local H: Cold Manor (2012)</b><br />
Cold Manor, off of the new album: Hallelujah! I'm a Bum.<br />
Just a hard rocking romper stomper of an album. Here is my favorite track of the album. Performed live in NY earlier in the year. The album does a really cool "Abbey Road" style of songs blending into one another.<br />
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<b>Mumford and Sons: Babel (2012)</b><br />
Epic. That is the only way I can describe this song. If this album is half as good as this song, Mumford and Sons just became a very important band.<br />
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<b>Murder By Death: Bitter Drink, Bitter Moon (2012)</b><br />
My mind was literally blown after I finished hearing this song for the first time. It is so good. Then I heard the album, and I was equally impressed. If this album does not blow up Murder By Death, I do not know what will. It seems like they have been a band that is always on the verge of becoming very well known.<br />
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<b>Queens of the Stone Age: ...Like Clockwork (2013)</b><br />
What a pure rock album. This never left my stereo.<br />
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<b>Moby: Innocents (2013)</b><br />
Innocents is an absolutely beautiful album. The melodies are what really standout and hold my attention throughout the entire album. Moby has a way to crafting music that is sober, sad, and yet joyful. For me, Innocents is a great capstone to Wait for Me and Destroyed. Three albums, linked together by Moby discovering what it means to sober and a musician.<br />
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<b>St. Vincent: St. Vincent (2014)</b><br />
I will always remember 2014 as the year I discovered St. Vincent. Her self-titled 4th album is without a doubt one of the best front to back albums I have ever heard. The musicianship on the album captures your ears and does not let go, but its her lyrics that are the most interesting. On this album Annie Clark (St. Vincent) discusses life in the digital age, and how it can affect one's life. It's pretty standard now to say that technology is good for us, but Clark is brave enough to ask is it really? Seeing her live during the first part of December has cemented her standing with me as the David Bowie of this generation. If you are to buy any album of 2014, buy this one. You will not be disappointed.<br />
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<b>Beck: Morning Phase (2014)</b><br />
It had been six long years since Beck had released his last album Modern Guilt. <b> </b>But it was worth the wait. Beck crafted an album that is like a sequel to his outstanding album from 2002 Sea Change. Now more mature, Beck is looking back and almost answers the questions he asked on Sea Change. Yet Beck continues to be Beck and he still finds a way to reinvent himself on this album. It is true that it is a "slower" album. But I find that sometimes in life it is a good thing to slow things down, and this album is an example that slow/quieter music can still be the most impactful. One of my new year's resolutions for 2015 is to listen to Sea Change and Morning Phase back to back.<br />
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<b>Punch Brothers: The <span class="text_exposed_show">Phosphorescent Blues</span> (2015)</b><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">I was telling a friend of mine that I feel like The Phosphorescent Blues has been around for years. It obviously</span><span class="text_exposed_show"><span class="text_exposed_show"> hasn't</span>, it came out in early 2015, but I've listened to it so much that it feels like it has always been here. For me the real test of a record is listenablility. What I mean by that is how many times can you hear it, before you get tired of it. The album has yet to stray far from my stereo, or from my iPod. It showcases a band that after 10 years together still isn't afraid to experiment. This very well may be their best album yet. For anyone looking to get into folk or bluegrass music, The Punch Brothers are the band to check out.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Alabama Shakes: Sound and Color (2015)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">My goodness this is a great record. I mean this is a really great record. 2015 was a breakout year for Alabama Shakes. From a killer Saturday Night Live set, to Lollapalooza, to jamming with Paul McCartney, Brittany Howard and company could do no wrong. This is the record that we will look back on as Alabama Shakes' coming out party. Blues rock at its best!</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds: Skelton Tree (2016)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">I was scared to listen to this record at first. It was almost as if the emotional impact this record promised would be too great for me to handle. Skeleton Tree focuses on the tragic death of Cave's son. This is Nick Cave at his most rare and hurt. After listening to this album numerous times, all I can say is that Nick Cave is one strongest individuals in the world. This record sees him at his lowest, and he brings the listener right there with him. And yet, there is a sense of hope throughout the album, that is truly inspirational.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>David Bowie: Blackstar (2016)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">What can I saw about the late great David Bowie that hasn't already been said? Same goes for his 2016 and last ever release Blackstar? Upon its release, critics called the album spectacular. After Bowie's death of cancer, it became his magnum opus. Any music fan NEEDS to listen to it at some point in their life. It lives up to the hype.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Radiohead: A Moon Shaped Pool (2016)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">I love A Moon Shaped Pool. It is a beautiful record. For me, it is on par with their 2007 release In Rainbows. And it is sort of a return to form for Radiohead. In 2011, Radiohead released King of Limbs which I found to be very robotic in sound. Where King of Limbs was abrasive, A Moon Shaped Pool is melodic. And with the untimely death of Thom Yorke's partner Dr. Rachel Owen, it takes on a whole new meaning.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Esperanza Spalding: Emily's D+ Evolution (2016)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">The word masterpiece is thrown around a lot. And I am just as guilty of throwing that word around as anyone else. With that being said, please believe me when I tell you, Emily's D+ Evolution is a masterpiece. What Spalding does on this album is absolutely incredible. She creates a fusion of jazz, classic rock, RnB, and pop. It is unlike anything I have ever heard. It's an album that ten years from now, I'll be able to listen to, and hear something new that I had never heard before. Because I am a music nerd, I have a list of my all-time favorite albums written down. It's time for me to add to the list.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>The Kronos Quartet: Folk Songs (2017)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">This is a really interesting record and band, and I want to do more research before I write a more in-depth article on them. Essentially, the Kronos Quartet is a quartet of classical musicians who experiment and re-interpret classics and folk songs. Hence their new album <b>Folk Songs</b>. Their re-imagining of American and French folk music is incredible. The songs are beautiful, peaceful, and thought provoking. This is definitely a band I want to learn more about.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Chris Thile: Thanks For Listening (2017)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">Three records in a single year. Chris Thile is a machine, and each album kept getting better and better. Released in early December, <b>Thanks for Listening </b>is a compilation album of all of his "Song of the Weeks" he has performed on A Prairie Home Companion, now known as Live From Here. Many of these songs benefit from the recording studio. Over the past two years, Chris Thile has sky-rocketed into my top five favorite artists ever, and based off his this past year, that trend looks solidified. I cannot recommend this record enough.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>St. Vincent: Masseduction (2017)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">I really needed to take my time, and digest <b>Masseduction</b> because there are so many different layers to this album. Not only is it about heartbreak, depression, and drugs, but it's also a well thought out reflection on our society as a whole. How we interact with celebrities, what are expectations of them are. How the press interacts with celebrities. How we interact with one another, etc. All of this is accomplished with incredible poppy music, and catchy hooks. St. Vincent, very quietly and confidently wrote what is my favorite album of 2017, what may be the best whole album of 2017, and what very well may be her masterpiece. I've talked to a number of my friends who are diehard music fans, and I keep hearing the same thing from this, this is St. Vincent's best album to date. And that is saying something.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Lord Huron: Vide Noir (2018)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">Lord Huron's third album "Vide Noir" continues the bands trend of uplifting, almost spiritual music. Very slowly, very quietly, Lord Huron is becoming one of the most important bands in the world. I almost thing the question is, when will the rest of the world discover this. I love this album, and I love the track Lost in Time and Space.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats: Tearing at the Seams (2018)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">God this band is good. Like I feel guilty that I'm just getting into them now good. Like where have I been the past few years? Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats tear it up with "Tearing at the Seams". Perfectly blending southern rock, garage rock, folk, and country into one perfect symmetrical sound. (I can't believed I just typed country there, but there you go. 2018 is full of surprises.) My prediction, Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats will be headling a major festival soon. Lollapalooza, Bonaroo, whatever. It's coming.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Paul McCartney: Egypt Station (2018)</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">With "Egypt Station", Sir Paul McCartney once again proves that he is Sir Paul McCartney. At age 76, McCartney puts out one of his best solo albums in years. It's catchy, it's modern, it's classic, it's everything we've come to expect from him. It has very quickly become one of my all time favorite McCartney solo albums. Personally, I can't wait to see these new songs live. </span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Punch Brothers: All Ashore (2018)</b></span><br />
This is difficult for me to admit, but when I first heard "All Ashore" by the Punch Brothers, I didn't like it. Since the bands 2015 masterpiece album the Phosphorescent Blues, Chris Thile and company have grown to almost mythical levels in my mind. (I currently put them in the same breathe as The Beatles in my favorite bands listing in my head.) Needless to say, when "All Ashore" was announced, and I first listened to it, my expectations where sky high.<br />
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The album totally caught me by surprise. I think deep down I was expecting it to be an almost spiritual sequel to Phosphorescent Blues. While "All Ashore" does have some similar characters to Phosphorescent Blues, it is a truly unique album and very different from its predecessor. With "All Ashore" the band took a collective step back, and reflected on all aspects of life. (Tying it back to I'm With Her here.) The majority of the music is melodic, and very honest about the times we are living in, while also discussing family life, and growing older. While I was expecting something more upbeat, the Punch Brothers delivered an album that, for me at least, will be a time capsule of what 2018 felt like. I only discovered this after a second and third listen. Now I absolutely love this album, and it is without a doubt my favorite album of 2018. I hope you give it a listen to at some point. I feel that you will absolutely love it.<br />
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<b>Brittany Howard: Jamie (2019)</b><br />
What can I say about this album that hasn't already been said? This is a breakout album for Miss Howard. Like in the way of become a voice of a generation. Howard creates an experimental roots album with lyrics that explore relationships, drug use, love, and life as a whole. I think this album maybe evidence that Brittany Howard has outgrown Alabama Shakes, and about to embark on an incredible solo career.<br />
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<b>Coldplay: Everyday Life (2019)</b><br />
Wow!! That's all I can say about Coldplay's eighth album. It is by far their most experimental album. It explores politics, religion, police violence, and classical music. Yet all of this exploration is contained in the musical sound of their first two albums. If you prefer "old" Coldplay, this album is a must listen. It's incomplete, rough, and human. If this is signs of a direction for the band, I cannot wait to see where they go next!!<br />
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*My sincerest apologies, Blogger isn't letting me embed the videos in this posting for some reason.<br />
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<br />Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-78178112607184004862019-12-27T14:07:00.001-08:002019-12-27T14:09:36.254-08:00Favorite Albums of 2019It's that time of year again. It's time for me to reflect, and compile my favorite albums of the year list. 2019 started very slowly for me, but it finished insanely strong with some pretty great albums. And without a further ado, here now my favorite albums of 2019.<br />
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<b>Honorable Mention</b><br />
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<b>The Beatles: Abbey Road 50th Anniversary Edition</b><br />
Giles Martin did an absolutely beautiful job remixing the final Beatles album. I teared up the first time I heard his mix of 'Here Comes the Sun'. Abbey Road sounds rich and full. This is a must have for the diehard Beatles fan in your life.<br />
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<b>10. Sharon Van Etten: Remind Me Tomorrow</b><br />
This is the first Sharon Van Etten album I've listened too, and boy is it a great introduction to her work. Her lyrics on emotional, relatable, and relvant. Her song Seventeen has a timeless quality to it. This is a great example of a singer/songwriter with her pulse on American society.<br />
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<b>9. The National: I am Easy to Find</b><br />
What a decade The National have had. They have easily released three of the best albums of the decade between High Violet, Sleep Well Beast, and now I am Easy to Find. What I love about this album is how different it is. The duets spread across this album give a great change of pace, and add another layer of greatness to some incredible songs.<br />
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<b>8. Lana Del Rey: Norman F*cking Rockwell!</b><br />
What an album. I listened to it three times in a row when we received this album at the radio station. Jenn Pelly from the website <a href="https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/lana-del-rey-norman-fucking-rockwell/">Pitchfork.com</a> described this album perfect. " Norman F*cking Rockwell! is the apotheosis of Lana Del Rey, songs of curiosity and of consequence, darkness and light, a time capsule of 2019, proof that a person cannot escape herself but she can change."<br />
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<b>7. Andrew Bird: My Finest Work Yet</b><br />
The reason why this album isn't higher on my list is because it was released so early in 2019, and I forgot about it. You must be thinking "Must not be that good, if you forgot about it." Sadly you are mistaken. This album is terrific. I almost over-listened to it. Bird puts together a collection of songs that showcase his poetry and music at their utmost peak. Which is truly saying something.<br />
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<b>6. Norah Jones: Begin Again</b><br />
I really like this album, because it doesn't sound anything like a Norah Jones album. On Begin Again, Jones experiments. Sometimes successfully, sometimes not, but overall this album a great listen to.<br />
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<b>5. Ringo Starr: What's My Name</b><br />
Yet again, Ringo Starr puts together an incredibly fun album. The highlight of the album is the John Lennon song Grow Old with Me, which Lennon wrote for Starr around the time of his murder. Paul McCartney joins Starr on the track, and adds great presence to the track. I hope that one day, a larger audience will discover Ringo's solo catalog, and see just how great it is.<br />
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<b>4. Hozier: Wasteland, Baby!</b><br />
If you are looking for a great blues based rock/pop album, Wasteland, Baby! is your album. Hozier crafts a dark and complicated album, while at the same time highlight the joy music provide the world.<br />
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<b>3. Hallways of Always: Invisible Light*</b><br />
For the first time in almost a decade, William Elliott Whitmore and Jenny Hoysten re-visit their Hallways of Always project. Invisible Light is incredible. It features a great indie/alternative, almost New Order vibe to it. It shows Whitmore's experimental side, and the incredible voice of Hoysten. This is a truly special album. *Couldn't find a video from this album.<br />
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<b>2. Brittany Howard: Jamie</b><br />
What can I say about this album that hasn't already been said? This is a breakout album for Miss Howard. Like in the way of become a voice of a generation. Howard creates an experimental roots album with lyrics that explore relationships, drug use, love, and life as a whole. I think this album maybe evidence that Brittany Howard has outgrown Alabama Shakes, and about to embark on an incredible solo career.<br />
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<b>1. Coldplay: Everyday Life</b><br />
Wow!! That's all I can say about Coldplay's eighth album. It is by far their most experimental album. It explores politics, religion, police violence, and classical music. Yet all of this exploration is contained in the musical sound of their first two albums. If you prefer "old" Coldplay, this album is a must listen. It's incomplete, rough, and human. If this is signs of a direction for the band, I cannot wait to see where they go next!!Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-9345555741137335532019-12-18T18:19:00.001-08:002019-12-18T18:19:20.952-08:00Finding FredI recently discovered that iHeartMedia has created a ten-part podcast series on Mr. Rogers called "Finding Fred". Each episode examines one specific characteristic of the man we all knew and loved as Mr. Rogers. It's an absolutely incredible and timely series. We, as a society, need to be reminded why kindness and empathy are so important. It impacts all parts of society and childhood development.<br />
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I cannot recommend this series enough. It's produced beautifully, and it honors the legacy of Mr. Rogers.<br />
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<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-finding-fred-51090582/?embed=true" width="300"></iframe>Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-40626946328221695172019-11-13T06:00:00.000-08:002019-11-13T06:00:06.517-08:00New ColdplayI would be a missed if I didn't write about the forthcoming new Coldplay album. Due out November 22nd, Everyday Life is a return to the "older" sound of the band. Thus far, they have released three singles: Orphans, Everyday Life, and Arabesque. All three songs are excellent. I think that the last time I was this excited for a Coldplay album was 2008's Viva la Vida. Which turns out to be my favorite album from the band. I think Everyday Life has the potential to be a very special album for the band, and I can't wait to hear it in its entirety. Until then, here's their three singles.<br />
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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZJNG3WmsOs4" width="560"></iframe>Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-49194923509012878962019-11-12T18:32:00.000-08:002019-11-12T18:32:43.131-08:00A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood International TrailerReleased today was he international trailer for the forthcoming Mister Rogers' film "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood". It's utterly beautiful. I have no shame in admitting it that I teared up, again, while watching it for the first time.<br />
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With the current climate in American society, this is the movie so many of us need right now. A very gentle reminder of the power of kindness and compassion.<br />
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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eTWP0NwHuhc" width="560"></iframe>Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-16669931111653906262019-10-31T13:44:00.002-07:002019-10-31T13:44:45.498-07:00Happy Halloween!To help get you into the spirit of Halloween, here's Neil Gaiman, author of The Sandman and American Gods, reads Edgar Allan Poe's The Raven.<br />
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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2jSHKPp-66w" width="560"></iframe>Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-71542249543185478882019-10-28T20:06:00.002-07:002019-10-28T20:06:48.575-07:00My Next Audio EssayFor the past few weeks, I've been working on an audio essay for my podcast series, The Looking Glass, where I defend the character Superman from the stereotypes that have been attached to him over the years. My goal is illustrate why he is unlike any other character in comics. Here's what I have thus far.<br />
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October 2019 saw the release of Joker. Starring Joaquin
Phoenix, the film explores Arthur Flecks dissent into madness, until he eventually
transforms into the Clown Prince of Crime, and arch nemesis to Batman. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Thus far the film has caused quite a bit of controversy.
There is a concern that by making the Joker a sympatric character, it will
justify his actions, and possibly inspire real life copycats. Thankfully, this
has yet to occur. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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But it does bring up an interesting point. Over the past
twenty years or so, our society has become infatuated with villains and
anti-heroes. From shows like Breaking Bad, Sons of Anarchy, and The Sopranos,
we’ve almost made the villain cooler and more interesting than the hero. Villains
are shown as complex characters that are very relatable. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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But all of these explorations and almost justifications of
the darkness leaves me wondering about the light. Have we as a society
exhausted our desire to explore the difficulties of being in the light? And I
think I have the perfect example to illustrate my point. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I love Superman! Since I was a little kid, Superman has been
my favorite superhero. Currently this opinion has put me squarely in the
minority in the superhero fandom community. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The most common complaints I hear after I tell people I am a
fan of the character are the following: <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->He’s so unrelatable because he’s so good. <o:p></o:p></div>
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</span><!--[endif]-->He’s too simplistic for modern storytelling<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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And the most common: Batman is better. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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While I respect everyone’s choices for favorite characters,
because after all it subjective, I do disagree. In fact, I think now, more than
ever a character like Superman is exactly what our society needs, because doing
the right thing can be inspiring, interesting, and compelling storytelling. <o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-72120074779835866942019-09-30T18:44:00.001-07:002019-09-30T18:44:47.329-07:00One More<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QJLjzk7DmeM" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
Just one more, to get me to four posts for the month.Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-79963328043999127632019-09-30T18:42:00.000-07:002019-09-30T18:42:07.121-07:00My Tune of the Summer<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AJOsLdBqbPA" width="560"></iframe><br />
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2019 has been a weak new music year for me. But I did discover this hidden gem of an album, and I absolutely love it!Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-83003981022915983492019-09-30T18:35:00.000-07:002019-09-30T18:35:26.022-07:00Abbey Road at 50<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGXLCkYfzc_FDgfNZ_WkGY4a4cf8TW5vNRJKWn71DOx5c5TVZMPfHTvr7fNl6C3924r5tSb4m4Jz6eSX3GwN8ZaljM2bwjnah8SLWi6agJUY4LN_2xQNegz7l3TqNR9d4bC-yUZlIr1Kp/s1600/Abbey-Road-box-set-by-The-Beatles.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="856" data-original-width="1280" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGXLCkYfzc_FDgfNZ_WkGY4a4cf8TW5vNRJKWn71DOx5c5TVZMPfHTvr7fNl6C3924r5tSb4m4Jz6eSX3GwN8ZaljM2bwjnah8SLWi6agJUY4LN_2xQNegz7l3TqNR9d4bC-yUZlIr1Kp/s320/Abbey-Road-box-set-by-The-Beatles.png" width="320" /></a></div>
This past Friday, I received the 50th anniversary edition of Abbey Road. It's beautiful. I'm really impressed with the mixing of Giles Martin. He does a wonderful job highlighting Ringo's drumming, and the harmonies of this album. Especially on the song "Because" and the second Abbey Road melody.<br />
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The demos included in this collection are wonderful. I've always seen Abbey Road as this mysterious album. There isn't a lot of photos of The Beatles recording the album. Plus with it being their last album, there's an added layer of importance to it. It's funny, this is the 4th time I've purchased Abbey Road, and it really doesn't get old.Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-89577441119087801042019-09-16T18:15:00.002-07:002019-09-16T18:15:56.887-07:00Latest Joker TrailerHere's the latest trailer to the upcoming Joker movie. I'm actually surprised that we are getting a Joker movie. I wonder how it will play off. As far as we know, Batman isn't in the movie. Personally, I think the Joker is the most interesting when he is going after Batman. Also, I think Joker is that one character that the audience should never sympathize for. Like if there is any comic character that is a pure representation of evil, it's The Joker.<br />
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For some reason, I can't embed the video, so you'll need to follow the <a href="https://youtu.be/zAGVQLHvwOY" target="_blank">link here</a><br />
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<br />Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201852592224309830.post-89219399577596658952019-08-31T19:02:00.003-07:002019-08-31T19:02:54.106-07:00Favorite Books 21 - 25The final posting on my 25 favorite books.<br />
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<b>25. The Neptune Files by Tom Standage </b><br />
The story told in "The Neptune Files" is amazing. It's a race against the clock match up between two scientists trying to prove that their mathematical theory is the one that discovered a planet. Think of it. We as a species is intelligent enough to discover a planet by using mathematics. It's a great story, and I cannot recommend it enough.<br />
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<b>24. Porcelain by Moby </b><br />
This may be my all time favorite musician memoir. The stories in this book are unreal, and utterly captivating. It also made me a fan of Moby's music even more.<br />
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<b>23. The Other Seriousness by Christy Wampole</b><br />
This book made me think. Like really think. I remember when I finishing this book, and thinking about the content and ideas discussed in the book for days afterwards. Also, this was the first "book of essays" that I read, that I utterly loved!<br />
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<b>22. All the President's Men by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein</b><br />
This is one of the most important books written about American politics, and it should be read by everyone. Period.<br />
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<b>21. Animal Farm by George Orwell</b><br />
This was a tough choice. I love Animal Farm. I love 1984. But I could only pick one, so I decided to go with Animal Farm because I read this first. Animal Farm is a masterpiece. It captures the Russian Revolution in a way that makes it understandable, and easy to follow. If you are looking for one Orwell book to read, this is the one to read.Chi-Town Kid 83http://www.blogger.com/profile/00326501870359187265noreply@blogger.com2