Hard to believe that tonight is New Year's Eve. Time just has a way of flying by. As John Lennon said in the song Beautiful Boy: "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".
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.
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.
Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Saturday, December 28, 2019
Albums of the Decade
In 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.
Frightened Rabbit: The Winter of Mixed Drinks (2010)
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.
LCD Soundsystem: This Is Happening (2010)
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.
The National: High Violet (2010)
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.
Arcade Fire: The Suburbs (2010)
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.
Frank Turner: England Keep My Bones (2011)
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.
William Elliott Whitmore: Field Songs (2011)
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.
Local H: Cold Manor (2012)
Cold Manor, off of the new album: Hallelujah! I'm a Bum.
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.
Mumford and Sons: Babel (2012)
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.
Murder By Death: Bitter Drink, Bitter Moon (2012)
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.
Queens of the Stone Age: ...Like Clockwork (2013)
What a pure rock album. This never left my stereo.
Moby: Innocents (2013)
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.
St. Vincent: St. Vincent (2014)
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.
Beck: Morning Phase (2014)
It had been six long years since Beck had released his last album Modern Guilt. 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.
Punch Brothers: The Phosphorescent Blues (2015)
I was telling a friend of mine that I feel like The Phosphorescent Blues has been around for years. It obviously hasn't, 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.
Alabama Shakes: Sound and Color (2015)
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!
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds: Skelton Tree (2016)
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.
David Bowie: Blackstar (2016)
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.
Radiohead: A Moon Shaped Pool (2016)
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.
Esperanza Spalding: Emily's D+ Evolution (2016)
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.
The Kronos Quartet: Folk Songs (2017)
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 Folk Songs. 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.
Chris Thile: Thanks For Listening (2017)
Three records in a single year. Chris Thile is a machine, and each album kept getting better and better. Released in early December, Thanks for Listening 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.
St. Vincent: Masseduction (2017)
I really needed to take my time, and digest Masseduction 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.
Lord Huron: Vide Noir (2018)
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.
Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats: Tearing at the Seams (2018)
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.
Paul McCartney: Egypt Station (2018)
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.
Punch Brothers: All Ashore (2018)
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.
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.
Brittany Howard: Jamie (2019)
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.
Coldplay: Everyday Life (2019)
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!!
*My sincerest apologies, Blogger isn't letting me embed the videos in this posting for some reason.
Frightened Rabbit: The Winter of Mixed Drinks (2010)
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.
LCD Soundsystem: This Is Happening (2010)
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.
The National: High Violet (2010)
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.
Arcade Fire: The Suburbs (2010)
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.
Frank Turner: England Keep My Bones (2011)
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.
William Elliott Whitmore: Field Songs (2011)
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.
Local H: Cold Manor (2012)
Cold Manor, off of the new album: Hallelujah! I'm a Bum.
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.
Mumford and Sons: Babel (2012)
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.
Murder By Death: Bitter Drink, Bitter Moon (2012)
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.
Queens of the Stone Age: ...Like Clockwork (2013)
What a pure rock album. This never left my stereo.
Moby: Innocents (2013)
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.
St. Vincent: St. Vincent (2014)
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.
Beck: Morning Phase (2014)
It had been six long years since Beck had released his last album Modern Guilt. 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.
Punch Brothers: The Phosphorescent Blues (2015)
I was telling a friend of mine that I feel like The Phosphorescent Blues has been around for years. It obviously hasn't, 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.
Alabama Shakes: Sound and Color (2015)
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!
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds: Skelton Tree (2016)
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.
David Bowie: Blackstar (2016)
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.
Radiohead: A Moon Shaped Pool (2016)
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.
Esperanza Spalding: Emily's D+ Evolution (2016)
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.
The Kronos Quartet: Folk Songs (2017)
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 Folk Songs. 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.
Chris Thile: Thanks For Listening (2017)
Three records in a single year. Chris Thile is a machine, and each album kept getting better and better. Released in early December, Thanks for Listening 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.
St. Vincent: Masseduction (2017)
I really needed to take my time, and digest Masseduction 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.
Lord Huron: Vide Noir (2018)
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.
Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats: Tearing at the Seams (2018)
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.
Paul McCartney: Egypt Station (2018)
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.
Punch Brothers: All Ashore (2018)
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.
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.
Brittany Howard: Jamie (2019)
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.
Coldplay: Everyday Life (2019)
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!!
*My sincerest apologies, Blogger isn't letting me embed the videos in this posting for some reason.
Friday, December 27, 2019
Favorite Albums of 2019
It'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.
Honorable Mention
The Beatles: Abbey Road 50th Anniversary Edition
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.
10. Sharon Van Etten: Remind Me Tomorrow
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.
9. The National: I am Easy to Find
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.
8. Lana Del Rey: Norman F*cking Rockwell!
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 Pitchfork.com 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."
7. Andrew Bird: My Finest Work Yet
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.
6. Norah Jones: Begin Again
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.
5. Ringo Starr: What's My Name
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.
4. Hozier: Wasteland, Baby!
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.
3. Hallways of Always: Invisible Light*
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.
2. Brittany Howard: Jamie
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.
1. Coldplay: Everyday Life
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!!
Honorable Mention
The Beatles: Abbey Road 50th Anniversary Edition
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.
10. Sharon Van Etten: Remind Me Tomorrow
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.
9. The National: I am Easy to Find
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.
8. Lana Del Rey: Norman F*cking Rockwell!
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 Pitchfork.com 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."
7. Andrew Bird: My Finest Work Yet
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.
6. Norah Jones: Begin Again
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.
5. Ringo Starr: What's My Name
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.
4. Hozier: Wasteland, Baby!
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.
3. Hallways of Always: Invisible Light*
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.
2. Brittany Howard: Jamie
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.
1. Coldplay: Everyday Life
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!!
Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Finding Fred
I 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.
I cannot recommend this series enough. It's produced beautifully, and it honors the legacy of Mr. Rogers.
I cannot recommend this series enough. It's produced beautifully, and it honors the legacy of Mr. Rogers.
Wednesday, November 13, 2019
New Coldplay
I 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.
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood International Trailer
Released 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.
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.
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.
Thursday, October 31, 2019
Happy 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.
Monday, October 28, 2019
My Next Audio Essay
For 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The most common complaints I hear after I tell people I am a
fan of the character are the following:
1.
He’s so unrelatable because he’s so good.
2.
He’s too simplistic for modern storytelling
3.
He’s far too powerful
And the most common: Batman is better.
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.
Monday, September 30, 2019
My Tune of the Summer
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!
Abbey Road at 50
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.
Monday, September 16, 2019
Latest Joker Trailer
Here'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.
For some reason, I can't embed the video, so you'll need to follow the link here
For some reason, I can't embed the video, so you'll need to follow the link here
Saturday, August 31, 2019
Favorite Books 21 - 25
The final posting on my 25 favorite books.
25. The Neptune Files by Tom Standage
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.
24. Porcelain by Moby
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.
23. The Other Seriousness by Christy Wampole
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!
22. All the President's Men by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein
This is one of the most important books written about American politics, and it should be read by everyone. Period.
21. Animal Farm by George Orwell
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.
25. The Neptune Files by Tom Standage
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.
24. Porcelain by Moby
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.
23. The Other Seriousness by Christy Wampole
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!
22. All the President's Men by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein
This is one of the most important books written about American politics, and it should be read by everyone. Period.
21. Animal Farm by George Orwell
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.
Friday, August 30, 2019
Favorite Books 16 - 20
This is the continuation of my 25 favorite books list.
20. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
It took me over two years to read this book from the library. That's how long the waitlist was for it. And it was well worth the wait. What author Amor Towles does is create a tale that is so vivid, heartfelt, and engaging that you're finished with the book before you know it. There are so many characters in this book that you will absolutely love, that I don't even want to mention them all, in fear of forgetting one. All I can say is read this book. It will not disappoint you.
19. Symphony for the City of the Dead by M.T. Anderson
One of the great joys of my current job is I get to produce a classical music show with a professor at my university. And over with these past five years, I have developed a brand new appreciation for classical music. I no longer view it as the music of the upper class, or stuffy individuals. I now see it as the music of the people. One of the most famous symphonies is the Symphony Number 7, the Leningrad Symphony by Dimitri Shostakovich.
Written during the siege of Leningrad, Shostakovich wrote the 7th symphony, which would go on to inspire the allies during the Second World War, and helped turn the tide. Anderson's account of how Shostakovich wrote the symphony is incredible. If I were to teach a history class about World War II, this would be required reading along with book 17 of my list.
18. Normal People by Sally Rooney
This was the first book I read this summer, and it was incredible. So incredible in fact that when I finished it, I was so tempted to start it all over again. If you were to follow up with me a year from now, I guarantee you that this book will be MUCH higher on my list. The only reason why it's lower is because I just read it, and I'm still processing it. In fact, no book has really compared to it, since I've read it. Go out of your way, and read Normal People. It is a one of a kind novel.
17. When Books Went to War by Molly Guptill Manning
The period of Great Depression and World War II utterly fascinates me. But I really don't like reading about the war per se. I like reading little, unusually stories about the war, or this time period. Some random fact that once you learn about it, utterly changes the way you view the event. That's what "When Books Went to War" did for me. Molly Guptill Manning presents a very human side of World War II, that once you see, changes your entire perception of the War. Again, if I were teaching a course on World War II, this would be a required text for the students to read.
16. Superman: The Man of Steel Volume 1 by John Byrne
I love Superman. He is my favorite superhero, and I am utterly drawn into the character's world which is full of a great supporting cast, optimism, and hope. For me, he will always be the greatest superhero, and John Byrne one of his greatest writers. When Byrne took over the character after the Crisis on Infinite Earths reboot of 1986, he changed Superman forever. By making Clark Kent the real guy and Superman the disguise, Byrne gave us a character that we can relate to. For me, this is the definitive interpretation of the character, and a must read for every fan of the superhero genre.
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Favorite Books 11- 15
This is the continuation of my 25 favorite books list.
15. The Bradbury Chronicles by Sam Weller
This is the book that made me a fan of Ray Bradbury. I was walking through the Beverly branch of the Chicago public library, and I spotted it. I picked it up, read the dust jacket, and decided that I should give it a shout. Boy was that a great decision. So much so, I did a podcast on the experience. But I think what I appreciate the most about this book is that it is such a well written biography. By the time I finished reading it, I felt like Ray Bradbury was my new friend. For me, that's an example of a great book.
14. Where There's Love, There's God By Mother Theresa
I vividly remember weeping within a page or two of starting this book. Like the Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything, this book spoke to me in a way that I didn't know I needed it. It change my spiritual perspective, and helped strengthen my faith. I also feel like it gave me a better understanding of humanity.
13. Bossypants by Tina Fey
I read Bossypants in a day, and loved every single page. What can I say...it made me fall in love with Tina Fey all over again. She truly is my dream woman. But back to the book. It's a wonderful memoir. One that will have you laughing until you're crying.
12. The Revenge of Analog by David Sax
This is a very interesting book in that it made me re-think how I interact with technology on a daily basis. David Sax does an incredible job of showcasing why "the real" matters, and why "the real" will never really be replaced. Like the Bradbury Chronicle, this books served as the basis of a podcast episode. Instead of sharing that, I've chosen to share the straight up interview with Sax. It's a wonderful listen, and I think a perfect companion to reading this excellent book.
11. The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway
At my core, I am a hopeless romantic, and The Sun Also Rises is a book about romance. Part of that great year of reading in high school, this introduction to the writing of Oak Park's native son showed me that short, precise sentences can elicit great emotions from the reader. This is my all time favorite Hemingway novel, and one that I try to read on a bi-annual basis. If you are looking for a first Hemingway book to read, this is an excellent jumping off point.
15. The Bradbury Chronicles by Sam Weller
This is the book that made me a fan of Ray Bradbury. I was walking through the Beverly branch of the Chicago public library, and I spotted it. I picked it up, read the dust jacket, and decided that I should give it a shout. Boy was that a great decision. So much so, I did a podcast on the experience. But I think what I appreciate the most about this book is that it is such a well written biography. By the time I finished reading it, I felt like Ray Bradbury was my new friend. For me, that's an example of a great book.
14. Where There's Love, There's God By Mother Theresa
I vividly remember weeping within a page or two of starting this book. Like the Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything, this book spoke to me in a way that I didn't know I needed it. It change my spiritual perspective, and helped strengthen my faith. I also feel like it gave me a better understanding of humanity.
13. Bossypants by Tina Fey
I read Bossypants in a day, and loved every single page. What can I say...it made me fall in love with Tina Fey all over again. She truly is my dream woman. But back to the book. It's a wonderful memoir. One that will have you laughing until you're crying.
12. The Revenge of Analog by David Sax
This is a very interesting book in that it made me re-think how I interact with technology on a daily basis. David Sax does an incredible job of showcasing why "the real" matters, and why "the real" will never really be replaced. Like the Bradbury Chronicle, this books served as the basis of a podcast episode. Instead of sharing that, I've chosen to share the straight up interview with Sax. It's a wonderful listen, and I think a perfect companion to reading this excellent book.
11. The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway
At my core, I am a hopeless romantic, and The Sun Also Rises is a book about romance. Part of that great year of reading in high school, this introduction to the writing of Oak Park's native son showed me that short, precise sentences can elicit great emotions from the reader. This is my all time favorite Hemingway novel, and one that I try to read on a bi-annual basis. If you are looking for a first Hemingway book to read, this is an excellent jumping off point.
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
My Favorite Books 6-10
This is the continuation of my 25 favorite books list.
10. My Favorite Thing is Monsters by Emil Ferris
My Favorite Thing is Monsters maybe the greatest graphic novel I have ever read. Too often graphic novels are viewed as the "superhero only" medium. But it presents a really unique way to tell a story, and I feel that My Favorite Thing is Monsters really showcases all of the possibilities that graphic novels offer. The artwork is exquisite, the story is engaging, and it left me wanting more. I cannot wait for volume two to be released.
9. Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
This was the first Hercule Poirot novel I ever read, and it is still my favorite. What makes Poirot so unique as a detective is he doesn't need his fists to solve crimes, he just needs his "little grey cells". His stories are action packed, and he hardly ever throws a punch. Murder on the Orient Express is a great example of this. If you have never read it before, please read it when there is a slight chill in the air.
8. About a Boy by Nick Hornby
Nick Hornby is the write I would love to be like. That is if I wrote well and had good ideas. The way he connects music and pop culture to his narratives is beyond engaging. His characters are flawed, human, and so relatable that I usually finish a novel of his within a couple of days. About a Boy captures a young boy's need for a mentor like no other book. It's funny, heart warming, and laugh out-loud funny. It's one of those books I can't wait to read again.
7. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
What can I say about To Kill a Mockingbird that hasn't already been said? It is probably the greatest piece of American literature ever written. It's incredible, and if you have never read it, stop what you are doing and read it. Now!
6. The Illustrated Man by Rad Bradbury
I'm still very new to the works of Ray Bradbury. I've only been reading him on a regular basis for about four years, but for my money The Illustrated Man is my favorite of his. It's a collection of short stories that explore the human condition through science fiction and fantasy. It's funny, Bradbury never saw himself as a science fiction author, yet that is how we all view him. (He view himself more as an author of literature, like Mark Twain, Jules Vern, and Conan-Doyle.) But there are stories in this collection that legit terrified me.
If you are looking into reading more short stories, The Illustrated Man is a perfect collection to start with.
My Favorite Thing is Monsters maybe the greatest graphic novel I have ever read. Too often graphic novels are viewed as the "superhero only" medium. But it presents a really unique way to tell a story, and I feel that My Favorite Thing is Monsters really showcases all of the possibilities that graphic novels offer. The artwork is exquisite, the story is engaging, and it left me wanting more. I cannot wait for volume two to be released.
This was the first Hercule Poirot novel I ever read, and it is still my favorite. What makes Poirot so unique as a detective is he doesn't need his fists to solve crimes, he just needs his "little grey cells". His stories are action packed, and he hardly ever throws a punch. Murder on the Orient Express is a great example of this. If you have never read it before, please read it when there is a slight chill in the air.
8. About a Boy by Nick Hornby
Nick Hornby is the write I would love to be like. That is if I wrote well and had good ideas. The way he connects music and pop culture to his narratives is beyond engaging. His characters are flawed, human, and so relatable that I usually finish a novel of his within a couple of days. About a Boy captures a young boy's need for a mentor like no other book. It's funny, heart warming, and laugh out-loud funny. It's one of those books I can't wait to read again.
7. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
What can I say about To Kill a Mockingbird that hasn't already been said? It is probably the greatest piece of American literature ever written. It's incredible, and if you have never read it, stop what you are doing and read it. Now!
I'm still very new to the works of Ray Bradbury. I've only been reading him on a regular basis for about four years, but for my money The Illustrated Man is my favorite of his. It's a collection of short stories that explore the human condition through science fiction and fantasy. It's funny, Bradbury never saw himself as a science fiction author, yet that is how we all view him. (He view himself more as an author of literature, like Mark Twain, Jules Vern, and Conan-Doyle.) But there are stories in this collection that legit terrified me.
If you are looking into reading more short stories, The Illustrated Man is a perfect collection to start with.
Monday, August 26, 2019
My Favorite Books 1-5
Over the past decade, I have gone through a fundamental
change. I became a reader. Growing up, reading was the LAST activity I wanted
to do. I would much rather play video games, watch TV, or pretty much do
anything else other than read. But something happened after I graduate from
college. I wanted something different. I wanted a new form of entertainment.
And that is where I “re-discovered” reading. Since then, reading has become my
number one relaxation activity. I would rather read a book that watch
television. In fact, given the choice, I inevitably choose reading.
So over this period of time, I have read some utterly
fantastic books, and as my mind works, thought it would be a fun exercise to
list my 25 favorite books, and write a little blurb as to why I enjoy them so
much. In the past, I have written similar lists, pertaining to my all time
favorite albums and films, but for this list, I’m changing up the format, and
will start with 1-5 and work my way down.
5. The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything by Father James Martin, SJ
To say this book utterly changed my life is an understatement. I remember reading this book for the first time in either 2011 or 2012 and weeping at certain passages. It introduced to me a new spiritual philosophy that I feel very at home with. Additionally this book encouraged me to pray more, and gave me an increased understanding of my faith. And my hope is all of this has helped me in becoming a better person.
4. The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon
Like Eleanor Oliphant, I could not put the Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay down, yet when I finally finished it, I had a strong urge to start over from the beginning. Set in New York city in the late 1930s, this novel captures the feeling of what it must of been like during the golden age of comics. As a HUGE comic book nerd, there was so much to appreciate here, but the thing I appreciate the most was the very human characters, and the truly original story.
3. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Reading Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine was an experience like none other. It is one of those books that you can't stop reading, but you don't want it to end. It's an original story about a group of very human characters. Plus Eleanor is one of the most original characters in modern literature. She is strong, self-assured, but at the same time vulnerable and in need of friends. There is a strong urge on my part to read this book once a year, and the more I think about it, the more I think that this will happen.
2. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan-Doyle
Whenever I think of Sherlock Holmes, I think of my Dad. He is a huge fan of the character, and growing up I always remember him watching the latest episode of the Jeremy Brett rendition of the character on PBS, or reading the short stories. For years, he tried to get me to read them, and I never did. For some reason, I thought Holmes was "above me". Finally in 2010, I took the plunge and read my first short story: "A Scandal in Bohemia". To say I was hooked, was an understatement.
Over the course of the next year, I read as much Holmes as I possible could. I went so far, and started reading all of the "fan fiction" or the "Further Adventures" of the character. Till this day, I believe that Sherlock Holmes is the first superhero. In fact, I did a whole episode of my podcast series based off of that premise, which you can listen to here. But in the the end, nothing can compare to that first collection of short stories. They transport you to London of the late 19th century, where only Sherlock Holmes could save the day.
1. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
My time in high school is not a period of my life that I look back on and longingly wish I could re-live again. But Junior year English did provide me with one of my all time favorite classes of my educational career. For a brief period of time in high school, I was a reader, and it was because of the great books we read such as: Fahrenheit 451, The Sun Also Rises, and the Great Gatsby, just to name a few.
But one of them stood above all others, and that was the Catcher in the Rye. J.D. Salinger's masterpiece caught me at the perfect time in my life where Holden Caulfield was speaking for me. I had never had never related to a character in a book so much as I did to Caulfield. It marked the first time that I read a book, and saw myself in the title role. And it's also the only book that I finished before the assigned due date. I could not put it down. I didn't realize it at the time, but looking back now, I can safely say that the Catcher in the Rye is the book that showed me the power of reading.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)