September 13, 2011

Meiko - Reasons to love you



My year of music is nearly complete!  I know, I know, I've missed over a hundred days.  It seems not quite fair for me to end it without 365 new songs for you, but alas, there are only 24 hours to every day.  I'm using as many of them as I can lately!

And I've also been inspired to write about the great journey I've been on in the last twelve months.  Shortly, I hope, I will be able to post an ode to this last year, and discovering great music, like Meiko, will be a part of it!

Until then, I'm just thinking back about how much I've learned about life and love, something that Meiko sings so much about.  Tonight, I wrote about the latest epiphany I've been realizing.  When it comes down to it, I guess somebody will one day provide me with a Reason to Love Him/Her....until then, I'll just love you all!

September 12, 2011

B*Witched - C'est La Vie



It's been years since I've heard these ladies.  Then, suddenly, I finished my espresso, turned up my ears and began tapping my toes along to these familiar vocals...oh, such a great exciting vibe!

September 11, 2011

Cat Power ~ Lived In Bars

"we know your house so very well
and we will wake you once we've walked up
all your stairs"


Cat Power is H-O-T!



This song is under-rated...

"we know your house so very well
and we will bust down your door if you're not there

"we've lived in bars
and danced on tables
hotels trains and ships that sail
we swim with sharks
and fly with aeroplanes out of here
out of here "

September 10, 2011

Hey Ocean! - "Alleyways"



I’ll take the alleyway today
No need for streets they just compete with other people
Walking side by side on sidewalks
With their clocks all ticking simultaneously
...
There is a way
Another way to go and I’ll take it
A secret way
Some people know about but know one ever sees
...

Fast or slow
Take the shortcuts inside roads
Pay no mind to the signs or highway lines
Will get there our way
...

And though we more than deserved it long ago 
it doesn't hurt to notice I'm free

(Fast or slow
Take the shortcuts inside roads
Pay no mind to the signs or highway lines
Will get there our way) 

September 9, 2011

Jeremy Fisher ~ High School



Oh....high school.

I love Jeremy Fisher.

Just saying.

He's in Edmonton September 23.

Just saying.

September 8, 2011

Hey Ocean! - Big Blue Wave (acoustic)



This is such a sad sweet song...made me depressed... :-(

But I still love these guys! :-D

So happy to have discovered them...and this feeling...in this year. What a Great Year!

September 7, 2011

Ingrid Michaelson ~ Maybe


It's time.

I'm going through everything I've gone through this year.

I'm cleaning out my mental closet, and donating those things I no longer need to good will.

With the subtle hints to and clinging onto my catalyst for the amazing journey I've had this year... well, this song is only fitting.






I don't believe it, though.  I'll admit, I think about that moment when we do meet on some city street somewhere.  His face ingrained in my mind, I'll have this vague feeling of familiarity with an otherwise stranger. And I doubt he'll recognize this beautiful soul he opened up for the world.

Perhaps that is a shame. Wouldn't life be better if we knew EXACTLY how we improved the lives of the people we touched?

But, in the end, knowing I'll have an affect on people doesn't inspire me to keep trying to do just that.  The best mystery of life is that we'll never actually know what we did or how we did it, but yet we always do change the course of life for so many people that we come across.  I enjoy the mystery and hope that it's always for the better...At least that's why I try to always leave with gratitude...and if not, look back on those devils as lessons learned...

September 6, 2011

Marina and the Diamonds ~ I am NOT a (L.A.) Robot



Months ago, my friend recommended Marina and the Diamonds to me. I have forgotten about her this summer....until he brought her up again last night. I am grateful for that friendship for more than just discovering this lovely and hilariously wonderful music...but today, it's for the music! ;-)

September 4, 2011

Regina Spektor - "Dance Anthem of the 80's"

And I am one of your people, but the cars don't stop...
It's been a long time since before I've been touched and now I'm getting touched all the time...and it's only a matter of time...and it's only a matter of when....



As a child of the 80's, I have a definite admiration for the music from that time.

As a child of the 80's, I have many friends born in that time.

Today is one of those friend (since babyhood)'s birthdays.

Happy Happy Day Day!

September 2, 2011

Frankie Goes To Hollywood ~ Relax (Don't Do It)



I'm feeling in an 80s kind of mood this week. There's nothing wrong with that.

Coitus interruptus, however, is not a recommended form of birth control nor a preventitive measure against STI's, STD's, and the epidemic that shook the 80s: AIDS.

Maybe Frankie should have stayed at home...

September 1, 2011

Nena ~ 99 Luftballons



September is the beginning of my year, every year, student or not.

This song is not only a memory of times past, but a celebration of what is to come - hope for the future. As such, it is only fitting for this day...

August 31, 2011

Joel Plaskett ~ A Million Dollars



Ode to more great Canadians...

This is a beautiful anthem. I love it, like I love many things about this day.

August 30, 2011

Madonna ~ Hung Up




Oh, dang! This song takes me back to Vancouver...circa 2006...

Memories....

August 29, 2011

Jay Z ~ "On To The Next One" (viewer discretion advised)



As I hinted at in my other blog the other night, life grows new opportunities where problems used to exist!

This song embodies that...and is my mantra for this, my last week of working for a large corporation. Now that's something to celebrate! =-D

August 26, 2011

Florence + The Machine - Dog Days Are Over (2010 Version)

This song embodies my appreciation for art, let alone music...



How was it that I only discovered Florence and the Machine this summer? A Miss Ashley Bailer is how! I love knowing fellow music aficionados.

For so many reasons, this song is appropriate for today. I do prefer to put happy-go-lucky songs on to a Friday, but that's why there are so many elements to a song. The lyrics are melancholic and a reminder of how precious life is. The rest is alive in celebration of what has happened, whether it is the passing of a loved one (or, in the case of this week, a strong political leader), or the ending of the summer. We should not mourn the moments that were, but celebrate the fact that they happened!

Happy Friday!

August 25, 2011

Lost Things - a stop-motion film featuring music by A Fine Frenzy

I apologize for my lengthy delay....

I've had some troubles this summer, but they're fading with the Dog Days (a post that's soon to come)




Shared by a friend on the good ol' Facebook, this is a great metaphor for my return to the blogosphere.

Also, it's an amazing piece of art. Share it with all that you know!

July 21, 2011

Christina Perri - The Lonely

Okay, nothing is perfect...myself included!



So, sadly, I was on hiatus this summer. This is posted days after the day I say it posted, but this song is most appropriate for that time in my life.


Somedays, you just need to be a little bit sad....this was one of those days....

July 1, 2011

Aimee Mann - Wise Up

The beauty of music is that it says so much more than I would ever be able to...

This song says so much...



This is posted after the date it actually says it was.  I apologise.  I'm filling in the missing days, slowly but surely.

At one point this summer, I made a significant decision to "wise up," so to say. Like many things I've learned this year, learning to decide to do something good for myself was a big step.  It happened shortly after July 1st, and although the decision has been tough, rigorously tested, and almost broken, I think it's the healthiest thing I've done in quite a long time...and I've been on a health kick for the last year.

So, here's to my decision. Here's to every one's best decision.  It's tough, often sad as it reveals our weaknesses, but in the end so worthwhile!

June 18, 2011

Lenka - We Will Not Grow Old

This song I dedicate to my friend, Eric, who is the only 20-something I know who hates the thought of living to twice his current age.



I owe him, and other new friends, for making this the Summer of Being Inappropriate. They have reminded me to embrace my youth, enjoy this life, and still do things that our healthy....like eat Goji berries, because they are the secret to never aging...

May 15, 2011

Lenka - Roll With The Punches

So appropriate for me to hear right now...I've been kinda "grouchy" lately...



As a coworker said last night, "I miss Sunny, Happy Jodi. Bring her back!" I totally agree...

Sorry, mates! Will try better...

However, there is no try. Only do or do not.

May 14, 2011

Ingrid Michaelson - You and I

As entertaining as my spring has been, I like the idealism of this song, and still believe in falling in love...



....if only love could actually pay the bills!

"well you might be a bit confused
and you might be a little bit bruised
but baby how we spoon like no one else
so I will help you read those books
if you will soothe my worried looks
and we will put the lonesome on the shelf"

And then, when that happens, love will produce more wealth than necessary. So:

let's get rich and give everybody nice sweaters

then, with the stamping feet, clapping hands and lack of strings:


"oh, lets get rich and buy our parents homes in the south of France
let's get rich and give everybody nice sweaters
and teach them how to dance
let's get rich and build our house on a mountain
making everybody look like ants
from way up there you and I, you and I, you and I"

This is a sweet song...by a sweet songstress. I like it! :-D

May 13, 2011

Christina Perri - Arms



A friend posted this song on YouTube today...and it was exactly what I needed to hear at exactly the right moment... Be-U-Tee-Ful!

"I hope you see right through my walls..."
"...You put your arms around me and I'm home...

I love it when a new song not only makes you cry, but heals your wounds with hope all in the same three and a half minutes.

May 12, 2011

Angus and Julia Stone - Mango Tree



I've been feeling lately like I'm not doing a good job of this "grown-up" thing. On paper, I am basically failing: consumer debt keeps growing, making just above minimum wage, still no assets, no relationship, no children, no clear career path, only an undergrad, etc., etc. Of course, there are many my age even further behind, and many younger further ahead...

The truth of the matter is that it's less about being a "grown-up" on paper and more about just being comfortable with the choices you make everyday. At times, I feel like I'm going in circles rather than actually getting anywhere. However, as a cyclist, I know that the wheels have to turn just as much when coasting on a level path as they do when one is climbing up a mountain. It's when we're on the mountain that we feel least productive, but the view from the top is always worth it.

This song is a mark of remembering who I am. I lost myself in the work I want to be doing for my career today. It's something I find myself circling aorund again and again as I climb the mountain of my life. In my zen place, there was no music blaring from the radio, no podcast trying to educate me on some social aspect of our world...and I just focused.

This is what this song means to me: focus.

It's great...

May 11, 2011

Christina Perri ~ Bang Bang Bang



Sometimes, when your heart is broken, you take all the blame for it. The best thing to do, though, is to see the reality of the other person - and play a really angry tune on their behalf!

Dedicated to such a good friend of mine, who should never have been treated the way she did. I hope karma catches up to those who have scorned her, just as it comes in handy for myself...

Don't just taste the rainbow - find the silver lining of that raincloud! :-D

May 9, 2011

Bright Eyes-Easy/Lucky/Free



This morning, I realized how lucky I was. Monday morning and I was more than excited to get to work...that's when you know you're in the right job!

Somedays, you just need to hear a good Bright Eyes song... and somedays, you just need to be excited for the regular routine...

May 6, 2011

Missed Me - The Dresden Dolls



Occasionally vulgar, but always set to a jumpy beat, the Dresden Dolls are quickly becoming my go-to band for dark, sarcastic pick-me-ups...it's a good call...

May 5, 2011

Sara Bareilles - Love Song

The other day, I received some great advice from a good friend, when I wasn't even asking for it. That's how you know you're besties...



This song came on while in the grocery store for 15% Tuesday this week. I hadn't heard it for much too long and felt like it matched the advice I needed to hear this morning. It's funny how we all know something to be true, we just forget about it until somebody else points it out to us in a way that we can understand based on the current situation. This is why we need social interaction...and communication. All very good things to learn about today!

Also, I love this lady! I love a lotta lady singers! This makes me happy inside ... and out!

May 4, 2011

Say Anything ~ I Love You More Than I Hate My Period



A few weeks ago, a friend of mine put on her iPod and walked to work. Along the journey, this song began to play. She looked down at the title in anticipation, trying to determine which song it was.
"I Love You More Than I Hate..." it began to say.
"What?!? What could one possibly hate?" my friend pondered.
The text moved. "Love You More Than I Hate My..."
"Oh, 'my parents'? That makes sense for the emo song," she thought.
As the text continued to scroll along, the next letter "P" confirmed this thought. But, it continued to scroll. And soon, the last word was revealed.
"Ah! Period. Ha ha ha ha ha!"

And that is how I came across this song. I feel it is only appropriate for a Wednesday...

May 3, 2011

P!nk - Stupid Girls

There may not be enough orange or green out there, but at least we can all still enjoy a little P!nk...

May 2, 2011

Clare Maguire ~ The Shield And The Sword



I just randomly stumbled upon this lady tonight...I hope I hear more of her. Nay, I'm sure I'll hear more of her in the near future. Expect to hear more about her in the next few weeks. I love her voice! Amazing!

May 1, 2011

The Flatliners ~ Eulogy

May 1, 2011 may become just another date for schoolchildren to remember when they learn about the "War on Terror" that began the history of this century.
Is this the end to 9/11?!?
No. It's just another date.
However, I felt that this song was most appropriate to recall the innocent lives lost on that day.



Part of me worries, though, that this is not over. Nay, part of me knows that it isn't over. This song is a heartfelt homage to the passing of a dear person. To many - mostly members of Al Quida - Osama Bin Laden was a dear person. Every story has two sides, as does every war. So, I know that this war is not over... War is never over.

So, I fought with myself about posting this song tonight. It may offend some people, rightly so. I know that this song does not make me think of bin Laden, Hitler, or any other "evil dictator" who has died on the first of May. However, war makes me think of death, as I think it should make everybody. Perhaps if more people thought of losing their loved ones when they thought about controlling others through violence, conquest and power, there would be less war. Until that happens, I'll remain a lover and not a fighter...

Be the change you wish to see in this world.
~ Mahatmi Ghandhi

April 30, 2011

Lenka - The Show

Another newbie I need to know more about!



Such a sweet song! Such a great message! :-D

How could I NOT Love This!

April 29, 2011

The Feeling - Fill My Little World

This song is on my workout mix on my iPod...Why? I'm not quite sure. But I always increase my intensity when it comes on, so I'm not about to get rid of it. Sadly, this version of the song is cut off at the end, but you get the just. Definitely check out more of this band - they're absolutely lovely!



I love my job. I know I've mentioned that recently on here before, but today for other reasons. For some reason, it was a slow Friday - Thank Goodness as we were training. And, when it is slower, we have the chance to chat more...and discuss things like when you would be considered a real nasty individual for continuing to be in a relationship with somebody that you weren't crazy about. I feel like this song is appropriate for that discussion...and it was a good discussion. The jury's still out!

April 28, 2011

Amy Grant - Baby, Baby

Every once in awhile, we have to go back to the things that we used to do, even if we thought we would never do that again. For example: quitting the same job twice, giving your time to others before yourself, procrastinating over something you really HAD to do NOW, and listening to Amy Grant...



This song doesn't just remind me of my childhood...it reminds me of tape casettes, dancing in the bin of my dad's grain truck, and sunny summer days creating air bands with my cousins... What a great reason to keep returning to Amy Grant!

April 27, 2011

Hannah Georgas - The Deep End

It's Hump Day... I feel like we could all use a little bit of Hannah to help us through to the end of the week...

April 26, 2011

"Weird Al" Yankovic - White & Nerdy

Ah, Weird Al...what was music parody before you?



I don't even know what song he is parodying with this, but I love it! It's not as pro-nerd as Coco's song about Intellectual Boys, but I LUMBed at all the same places...

Ah, nerds...where would we be without you?

April 25, 2011

The Wraggle-Taggle Gypsies

"How are you doing today?"
"Excellent!"...
"Even though you're at work?"
"Heck yah! Life's too short to not enjoy work..."



This song captures that feeling exactly! :-D

April 24, 2011

Stars ~ Calendar Girl

When you get those rare moments of clarity, those flashes when the universe makes sense,
you try desperately to hold on to them. They are the life boats for the darker times, 
when the vastness of it all, the incomprehensible nature of life is completely illusive.
So the question becomes, or should have been all a long...

What would you do if you knew you only had one day, or one week, or one month to live?

What life boat would you grab on to?
What secret would you tell?
What band would you see?
What person would you declare your love to?
What wish would you fulfil?
What exotic locale would you fly to for coffee?
What book would you write?
 ~ One Week


Some people refer to it as a mere "love letter" to Canada, but for me, the movie One Week is about its universal message, as outlined above...

If we would change anything about our day-to-day lives if we knew there were so few left, why are we doing what we're doing every day for the rest of our lives? Should we really be waiting to live? Why wait when we're living right now? And, if you aren't happy - change your life!

My Easter wish for everyong is to stop waiting to live. Take this new week before you (the last in many student's lives) and live unafraid. Because, when you look closely at the reasons for not doing what you want to be doing, you'll find that it is only fear in the way, and nothing else... Or do you not really want to live your life?

i can't live forever.
i can't always be.
one day i'll be sand on the beach by the sea;
the pages keep turning, i'll mark off each day with a cross
and i'll laugh about all that we've lost.

April 23, 2011

Kelly Clarkson - Because Of You

Today, felt like a Pink day. So, I turned on the Pink YouTube mix and came across a whole day's worth of girl power ballads, including this old one from Kelly Clarkson...



As April began, it was suggested that I may need some emotional callouses. To myself, and fellow emotional artists, this idea seemed odd. What is wrong with feelings?

Today, I realized that shutting them off/out is just as scary as embracing them. The pain from our past, whether from someone we are still in a relationship with, or one we were lucky enough to escape from, affects how willing we are to expose those emotions to other people. We pretend not to care - not to wear our hearts on our sleeves - because that's what we did before, and it really hurt. But pretending you're ok is no way to go through life...

And that's the existential crisis of my week ;-D

April 22, 2011

Metric ~ The Police and the Private

Get straight and wait here while I try to find the exit sign
When will you stop asking strangers, no one wants what we want
Keep one eye on the door, keep one eye on the bag
Never expect to be sure



You're working for the police and the private, the pirates and the pilots
Fingerprinted waiting for the train
The doctor, the writer, the hairdresser,
Felt up and fingerprinted waiting for the train


I've been in a Metric state of mind this week... I've been in a Metric state of mind all spring, in fact. Not necessarily their new songs, but this good ol' stuff!

I love it when music speaks to a feeling we're just trying to figure out. We may never be able to capture that feeling as well as the song, but we'll try, with words, gestures, choices, etc. This is why I get into certain states of musical minds sometimes.

It's more than just the connection to that feeling in the song that allows you to sink right into it. The song will grab your rubber arm, carry you on, and lead you into a better place. And sometimes that's all we really need to get through it.

Lord lord mother we are all losing love
Lord listen lover we are all missing mama
Lord lord mother we are all losing love
Lord listen lover we are all missing something I don't got

There's a place that ends here I know
When they close the gates I'll cry
So tired of never sleeping
The whole world wants what we're on


At some point, in our life we wake up and realize that the dream they fed us about getting everything we were supposed to want - as long as we just kept working hard to get to it - was nothing more than a dream. Instead of pushing us to work harder, they should have taught us to be happier. We can be happy in any situation, we just have to chose that emotion. (Even if you fake it 'til you make it.)

Didn't make this up I learned, I learned it from a friend
My friend is coming clean, she told me
Keep one eye on the door, keep one eye on the bed
Never expect to be sure who you're working for


There's a discussion on this YouTube page re:the meaning of this song. It's art, it means something different for every listener. Even if the artist meant something completely different from what you get out of it. It's speaking to a higher truth that we're all aiming for. If more of us get a sense of one message from it, that's good, and illustrates the cultural interpretation of that artwork for that time period. Some pieces are universal, and will always speak to that same message...or culture learns that this universal piece of work means one thing: it's hard to be clear on that. I know what this song means to me, and it holds more value in itself because of that interpretation. Will you get the same one? Maybe...

You're working for the police and the private, the pirates and the pilots
Fingerprinted waiting for the train
The doctor, the writer, the garbage collector
Felt up and fingerprinted waiting for the train


We wake up - perhaps some other time - and realize that the person across from us is not the person we thought they were. Sometimes this fills us with great joy as we know have the opportunity to dig deeper through their onion of a personality. Most times, though, this scares us, and offends us, and makes us feel foolish for having shown our layers of onion to them too quickly. This feeling of violation fades after awhile. Like all difficult times, this too shall pass...

Lord lord mother we are all losing love
Lord listen lover we are all missing mama
Lord lord mother we are all losing love
Lord listen lover we are all missing mama
Lord lord mother we are all losing love
Lord listen lover we are all missing mama
Lord lord mother were all losing love
Lord listen lover we are all missing love
Got to get out
Got to get to you, the orphanage is closing in an hour


...and when it does, we'll be stronger. We may have lost one person in our lives, but we have gained a deeper understanding of ourselves. It could be, as the saying goes, that "When you lose, you shouldn't lose the lesson." But I prefer not to think of it as yourself losing it. In the end, there you are, knowing more about yourself, a situation you've been faced with, and an understanding of how to bring certain emotions to your psyche. We can hide from those emotions, or we can ride them out, like some new sick drug we've just been given a free sample of. Will we allow ourselves to go back for another hit or was the experiment/experience of one enough for us?

And that's how I feel about this song...

April 21, 2011

Maximo Park - Girls Who Play Guitars

We used to talk about girls who play guitars...

She goes and she gets drunks, she gets off, she goes and she gets it...

It's her life but it's a life worth living...



At some point in everybody's life, they need some time to take things less seriously than at other times. These periods of time can last anywhere from a weekend to several years. I'm not sure how long this period of my life will be, but I know I'm going through it right now...

This morning, I couldn't remember having hit snooze several times before actually being conscious. This is a clear indication that I need to get a few good nights' sleep...luckily, my weekend is upon me!




We used to talk about girls who play guitars...

She goes and she gets drunks, she gets off, she goes and she gets it...

It's her life but it's a life worth living...

April 20, 2011

Bob Marley. Jamming.

Today's song is dedicated to convenience store employees everywhere!



Have I ever told you how much I love music? It lifts you up when you're down, or lets you simmer in your lower mood if you need it to. It embraces the mood you are in and allows you to feel every inch of that emotion. It connects you with other people and makes you distinct from the based on your preferences as well. There's so much that music can do...like remember a man, a movement, and the lesson that sometimes you just have to sit back and take the time to learn how to relax. I L-O-V-E it!

Who doesn't appreciate a good Rastufarian tune every once in awhile?

April 19, 2011

Regina Spektor - That Time



Regina Spektor always makes me think of one of my best friends. He introduced her music to me, and sometimes I just listen to her because I miss him. Sometimes I just listen to her for fun, too...

I love this song, and the video is even better. The first body part of mine that I fell in love with were my feet, so I always feel a special connection to stories told from that perspective (and I am fascinated by people who have real foot fetishes). The purple shoes in this video are pretty great, too!

April 18, 2011

Metric ~ Gimme Sympathy

Who would you rather be?



Every generation needs an anthem...can this be ours?

Even the beat catches my heart in such a way that I feel more complete listening to it... I love it when a song has that power.

April 17, 2011

Hayden - Let's Break Up



This was one of my favourite tunes from this morning's listening to my iPod. After listening to more of his music throughout the day, this is still my favourite tune of his. You may disagree! So, check out his website.

April 16, 2011

Dave Stanley Band ~ "Bobby Orr"



For those of you who follow hockey, I guess this was a pretty good night for Canadian teams. I don't know, I don't really follow hockey, but I like this song! It's reminiscent of a bigone era, as the friend who recommended it to me pointed out. I like that part of it. Also, I know who Bobby Ore is, so that makes me smile inside :-)

Happy Hockey Night in Canada!

April 15, 2011

Paul Simon - 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover + lyrics

Friday Fun Fact: 52% of people going into a One Night Stand secretly hope it will turn into a relationship.

Whatever happened to No Strings Attached?



I think we all need to listen to this song a little bit more. Don't get me wrong, if you're in a loving and fulfilling relationship, where you are happy, healthy, and good for one another, you should stay there. But never be afraid to leave a relationship that's not doing this for you... There are 50 ways to leave a lover, even if this song only mentions five...

April 14, 2011

Broken Social Scene ~ Fire Eye'd Boy

Today feels like a Broken Social Scene kinda day...




Well, I don't know what a Broken Social Scene kinda day actually is. To tell you the truth (because I always tell the truth - my one weakness), I actually don't know that many songs by Broken Social Scene. I don't know that I actually enjoy the band that much. I enjoy their fans! And the offshoots from their bands. I just haven't listened to a lot of their songs and been suddenly drawn into the inner worshipping circle of the band. One of my best friends has, though, and she's finishing her last semester of university this month, so I'll dedicate this post to her! Good luck with everything, my dear!

April 13, 2011

Alanis Morisette ~ My Humps

It struck me as just a little bit funny, last night, to find Alanis Morisette in the Joel Plaskett YouTube mix. When this song came up, though, it donned on me. They are more similar than they are different, especially being Canadian! And that is how Canadian artists roll.

I realized this during this song because I like the original version of it by Black Eyed Peas. I know - BEP is a favourite band of mine...judge me ALL you want, I like how they drop their beats! This version of their song, My Humps, is definitely my favourite, played by another artist I love...in the YouTube mix of a fellow Canadian I adore. And, so, somehow, life makes sense again...

Check out the video here.

April 12, 2011

The xx - VCR



Another recommendation...

I played this band before hand. I still like them, which is always a good sign for a band - they are more than just a passing phase in my life!

April 11, 2011

The New Amsterdams ~ Fountain of Youth



Another good one! I don't even remember how I stumbled upon these guys... Hmmm. Regardless, I still love it!

April 10, 2011

Bright Eyes - At The Bottom Of Everything



This Bright Eyes made me cry within the first minute...you know it's good when that happens! :-D

For some reason, I'm on a forgiveness kick... C'est ma vie!

April 9, 2011

Less Than Jake ~ The Rest Of My Life



Allegories are used when you're making a small "common sense" point sink in... I find them most meaningful in this way, at least.

Imagine your life right now as if you are a child. How ridiculous does it look? Which regrets could you take as lessons instead, if you thought of yourself as an innocent rather than a perfect human being?

April 8, 2011

Erin McKeown - "The Taste of You"

We interrupt this week of recommendations, with a musician I DID stumble upon...years ago!



Yes, I've been in an Erin McKeown state of mind this spring. Can you believe we're already three weeks into this season? It's been sunny here in Edmonton this week, and the snow is melting like the bunnies white fur (in my optimistic opinion, of course)! As such, it comes as no surprise that I would be in an Erin McKeown state of mind. So upbeat, so happy, so hippy-loving-wonderful!

Enjoy your weekend!

April 7, 2011

Propagandhi ~ Purina Hall of Fame

This band was supposed to be featured last month...



Other than that, well, a picture is worth a thousand words...and video like this is pretty hard to ignore.

One day, we'll all make the connection...

April 6, 2011

Marina and the Diamonds ~ Oh No!

You are more authentic...the more you resemble what you've dreamed you are - Todo Sobre Mi Madre




I would like to say I "stumble upon" all of the music I showcase on this blog, but that would deny the method to my madness. Friends, coworkers, random strangers always recommend music to me. I like music. I remember some musicians. I have to have some musicians rammed down my throat (and boasted about from their die-hard fans) to fully appreciate their artistic talents sometimes. And all of this I like to refer to as "stumbling upon."

Over the next week, I'll be sharing the artists that have more rather than less been recommended to me by friends. As always, though, I won't share something unless I actually enjoy the musician (...or I'm making some tongue-in-cheek statement about them...). My mama always said, "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all!" I like that advice...

Mousy brown? Not too much. Earthy? Hmmm...she's touring with Katy Perry, so I doubt it. Soulful? Well, I felt what my soul needed from her music, and so it is on the blog...

April 5, 2011

The Deep Dark Woods - All the money I had is gone



I love getting back to the roots of this blog. Canadian Music, especially Canadian Folk Music is so nice on the ears! And, this band takes me back to my roots, being from deep in the heart of the rectangular province I will always call home: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Listen to this song, one of my favourites of theirs, and then check out their website as well!

April 4, 2011

Ben Lee - Woman Is The Nigger Of The World (Lennon/Ono)



This is a "politically incorrect" song that uses that political incorrectness to make its strongest point. Shock value tends to be worth a lot in making a point...not something I go for, but something I can appreciate.

April 3, 2011

Mike Roste ~ Someone



I've been meaning to post this video for a while now, but it's best that I've waited until April. As it turns out, he has a new cd coming out this spring, and a party happening at the end of this month. Check out the details on his Mike's MySpace page.

April 2, 2011

Chloe Albert ~ Honey Bee



And now for a return to some Alberta-bred musicians!

I saw this girl for the first time at a FolkFest. Was it last year or the year before? Right now, I can't remember. All I always remember about a great musician is how amazing they sound! Check out her myspace page!

April 1, 2011

Third "Friday": EPIC MULLET GUY



At some point, making fun of this song will get old. But, until then, let's allow it to give numerous talented individuals their fifteen minutes of fame. "Epic Mullet Guy" deserves his fifteen minutes, just as much as Rebecca Black does... And, you never know - he may go further than her!

March 31, 2011

Katie Melua - A Happy Place



Yes, I am on a bit of a Katie Melua kick this week. She's just such a good songstress! This video is amazing to watch as well. So much action! I feel like either the director or musician made it resemble their own happy place. I like the visuals of other people's happy places! It makes me wonder how I would illustrate my own to the world...

March 30, 2011

Anjulie - Boom

A productive day is always dreamed of, rarely attained... c'est ma vie!



Yesterday morning, my schedule was faced with a conondrum. Early morning shift, lunch date just before noon, personal training mid-afternoon and dinner with a friend I haven't seen in much too long to end it all off. And so, where was I going to fit in that work I actually want to be doing - the work that is supposed to be moving my soul further in this world - my writing?

Luckily, I have connections on Whyte... WIFI connections, that is! And like that, my sporadic day of running here and there was supported by my sitting in a bookstore cafe, typing away at my laptop, and listening to the random music trying to be sold by the bookstore. Trying? Hmmm, maybe not. When I talked with the person who chose the album, it was a random picking of an album that looked pretty. (Yes, we do judge books/cds/etc. by their covers! )So, once again, I have serendipitously found a new artist to love....who's also Canadian :-D

Check out her website: http://www.anjuliemusic.com/

March 28, 2011

Norah Jones - Chasing Pirates



I feel like Norah Jones today...and I may feel like Norah Jones until the sun returns to this fair city...maybe one day...

March 27, 2011

Tina Turner : What´s Love Got To Do With It



It's weird how one song can make a line infamous...or how one line can make you remember this whole song...  I suppose, it is the title of the song..

Regardless, this is a legendary song that just felt all too perfect for my morning.  I hope you enjoy listening to Miss Turner as much as I did today...

March 26, 2011

Bright Eyes - I Must Belong Somewhere

Today's video did not embed on my blog :-(.  But, please click on the link and check it out!

For some reason, I've been listening to more mellow music this week.  I think it has something to do with being a bit sick :-( Nonetheless, I always really enjoy this song.  The video, also, captures that desire that the song is responding to.  We all strive to find some real place for ourselves, but the truth is that we are exactly where we are supposed to be.  Call it faith, fate, or just blind belief, but this is exactly what we are supposed to be doing, based on everything that has happened in the past, and everything that may happen in the future.  What we choose to do with our situation is the only thing that will change things, and it will only change the future... Embrace it!

March 25, 2011

FRIDAY (power anthem version)



Like I said on Wednesday..this man is going viral!

(Just like this song... thank you, Rebecca Black ;-D)

March 24, 2011

Meiko - Under My Bed



Tonight I felt like going back to some music from last fall. I turned my YouTube channel to Meaghan Smith and came across this Meiko song. I've been meaning to post this song for awhile now, and I finally got inspired to do so tonight. Enjoy!

March 23, 2011

Stewart Yu ~ GLEE: Bills, Bills, Bills (+ No Scrubs)



I've recently stumbled upon this AMAZING artist (via a friend). He has done this whole video himself...and I have a feeling he's about to get HUGE in the next nine months (2011 is a good year for people to make something out of themselves...).

More to come in the future...but I thought I'd pass on this teaser for today! Stewart is going viral...just wait!

March 22, 2011

Cee Lo Green - "Forget" You



Despite feeling ten times healthier than yesterday morning, I faced a vortex within the first three hours of my day... It was getting me down 'til I heard this song!

This is my vortex-defeating song!!!

:-D

March 21, 2011

Blondie ~ Maria



I feel like this is a follow-up post to what I was beginning to talk about last Friday.  It's more about what I was getting to in the end of the post, which I hope to continue to write about someday...when each day has 72 hours, every week has twelve days, and I can do everything I want to with my time...

I love songs about unrequited love...

March 20, 2011

Metric - Poster Of A Girl



Tu sais que tu n'aimes pas ta réalité
Je sais que tu n'aimes pas ta réalité
On ne peut pas fabriquer la vérité
Je sais que tu n'aimes pas ta réalité
Tu sais que tu n'aimes pas ta réalité

March 19, 2011

Alanis Morissette Perfect

Thursday night, my mountain began to crack...



Really, it began Thursday morning when I just really couldn't handle having to be the Mountain for everybody else! Why can't everybody else just be happy on their own?!? ...

And that's why putting the positive energy out there is so much more important...the world needs more love...the world needs more positive energy...the world needs to punish the vortexes out there, no longer allowing them to bring the rest of us down. Yes, that's right. I think negativity should be locked up in a jail and not allowed out until the pessimists of this world are too old to reproduce...Until then, I'll just cry about having to be Perfect :-(

March 18, 2011

Rebecca Black - Friday

The interruption continues...before this girl explodes like Vesuvius...



Okay, so this girl explode in just the last few weeks, so it IS possible that you have been living under a rock and not heard of her. But, beware, she'll soon overtake Justin Bieber...and this song may be the reason.

Let the record stand, though, that I started the "Happy Friday" texts last June - almost before Rebecca could talk...
(I'm thinking of trademarking them right now, though...just in case they go viral like this song...)

March 17, 2011

You Don't Own Me - The First Wives Club

The month of veganism, is interrupted for a reflection on mountain-building:



Don't let you vortex own you!

March 15, 2011

Two of My Fav Vegans: Prince and Ellen

Remember when Oprah went vegan for a week?

That was probably over a month ago now, wasn't it? Well, around that same time, I sat down with a friend of mine and we discussed the difference between Oprah and Ellen. Both have fought long and hard to get where they are, and both give back immensely to random strangers now that they are so high up there. Now, Ellen has probably another three to five years before she replaces Oprah as the most influential woman in (forget politics, celebrities have much more of an effect on what people think), but I know she will one day be even bigger than Oprah.

Later on in the evening of discussions, I began to complain about not really getting anywhere in my life. My friend reassured me with one small comment, "don't worry, Jodi. One day, you're gonna be bigger than Ellen!"

A girl can dream, can't she? ;-D



So, here you go: two of my favourite celebs, and both of them vegan!

Of course, nearly everybody knows Ellen is vegan. She's pretty open about her whole life. Prince, on the other hand, like many musicians, tries to keep his life private. He still jabs in some of the animal rights issues onto liner notes, though. See "Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic" for his thoughts on the production of wool...

March 14, 2011

Loretta Maine - Vegan Song



A song about "cheating"...the vegan lifestyle.

This is hilarious. I love Loretta Maine, now.

March 13, 2011

Elvis Costello ~ 'Sulphur to Sugarcane'

I have a confession to make...

I haven't listened to enough Elvis Costello in my life! But it's never too late to start:



And, yes, are you really surprised to hear that he's of the vegetarian way?

:-D

And Canadian!

And Folk!

How amazing...

March 12, 2011

OutKast ~ Hey Ya!



Every time I hear this song, I am taken back to the year I lived in res, the field we played touch (canadian) football on and listening to this song as we cheered on the boys from our house. Especially the "lend me some sugar, I AM your neighbour" and "shake it like a polaroid picture"...

The coincidence is that my journey to vegetarianism began that year...and Andre 3000 is also a vegetarian! I knew nothing about that at the time, but now find it an interesting coincidence. This song reminds me of the cafeteria that opened my eyes to what it was like to be a vegetarian - and the reason I never want to eat meat again...it's gross when you don't know it comes from!

Andre 3000, regardless of where he's from, can never be gross! ;-)

March 11, 2011

Bryan Adams - Summer Of '69



When I think of Bryan Adams, I think of this song...and when I hear this song, I think of Bryan Adams, and what a wonderful person he is!

This song is definitely on my list for Top 100 Best Songs Ever. It's a pretty eclectic list, I must admit, but one filled with only MY favourite songs. This song is there not only because Bryan Adams is Canadian, but becuase my name is in the lyrics :-D

Five years after the release of this song, as Bryan Adams was beginning his ascent into the realm of wonderful Canadian celebrities, he also became vegan. Now, as far as his philanthropic work goes, animal rights is not his top priority and probably not even something you would have known about him before. Like many other people who enjoy giving back to the world, Bryan also thinks about the animals. His latest project involved writing letters to KFC Canada, on behalf of PETA. Now, he wasn't campaigning for them to stop serving chicken (give us another ten years before we break down that wall), but merely asking them to "become leaders in using more modern and more humane methods of killing chickens." Every little bit helps...

In non-animal philanthropic work, Bryan Adams has his own foundation. No wonder he has the Order of Canada! The proceeds from all of his photography goes to the Bryan Adams Foundation, which works to improve educational standards in Africa.

Need I go on about why I love Bryan Adams?
 - Canadian
 - musician
 - C-U-T-E (even for a man my father's age)
 - world traveller
 - philanthropist
 - vegan

March 10, 2011

Sarah Harpur- The Vegan Song



Why are all the good vegan songs farces? Is it because vegans are funnier? Or more self-deprecating? Does our self-deprecation make us more approachable?

Is this a farce?

March 8, 2011

METRIC ~ Succexy

And, another break from the vegan artists, I think.



It's gotten to the point where I just assume that like-minded liberal artists are on the same path as me when it comes to the compassionate lifestyle; however, I cannot confirm nor deny that the members of Metric are vegetarian...but I can tell you without a doubt that I LOVE their music.

My iPod randomly hits this song at the most opportune times lately. Yesterday, it was not my electronix iPod but my internal one that kept coming back to this chorus. It's a good beat and a great song, in my opinion...and the video is pretty killer, too!

March 7, 2011

DJ Weekly ~ So So Vegan

YouTube describes this video as "a satirical music video by DJ Weekly about Vegan Hipsters that infest our major cities around the country."



When I became a vegetarian, we called people who did it as a fad "yuppies." Those were the people who would eat chickens, "'cause they're not really meat." And fish was a staple, too. I tried to let people know that I was a "true vegetarian," because the only flesh I ate came from a tree.

Now, the term we have for the imposters of any fad these days is "hipsters." It's an interesting word and I'd like to know its origins one day. Probably, like "yuppies," it came from their tendency to flock to what was "hip," just as "yuppies" followed the rest of their school.

I think there's something about human nature that makes us all want to fit in. If people choose a more compassionate lifestyle in an attempt to "fit in," I think that's awesome! Also, it's much better than choosing drugs, alcohol, or another unhealthy activity to fit in. Bring it on!

Also, today I had a discussion about the "vegan police," as mentioned in Scott Pilgrim. I have yet to see that movie, so I can't comment fully on how they convey our "cult," as I jokingly call it, to the world. One of my colleagues, though, commented on it in a recent presentation on becoming a vegan. She assured the audience that we are not "Vegan Police," and will accept you regardless of whether you drink milk or not.

I just ask for your honesty if you're cooking my supper...and acceptance back if I don't care to join you in your dairy-infested "vegan" meal! We can all define ourselves however we want...and I'll love you for however long it takes you to join me in my opinion... ;-)

March 6, 2011

Aerosmith ~ Cryin'



I love Alicia Silverstone. She has always come across as this compassionate individual, even in videos like this, where she's playing a woman scorned. In this video, I still see her as Cher, from Clueless, who just really wants to help people look better.

I've mentioned her veganims before on my vegan blog. I really did love her book, The Kind Diet, and reccomend it to anybody considering veganism, or even vegetarianism, or healthier eating habits. It's very informative about her journey, and she packs a lot of guidance and information into it about why not eating meat is not only kind to them, but kind to yourself. She is an amazing animal activist, as well as darling actor.

Aerosmith ain't bad, either! ;-)

March 5, 2011

Bif Naked - I Love Myself Today



Well, Bif Naked may be a vegetarian. It wouldn`t surprise me. But I`m not 100% certain of the fact, so, please, don`t take my word on it... ;-)

This is just a song that began playing in my head as I began my day. It never really disapeared from the soundtrack that is always running in my head. It`s a good anthem for a funky day...and today, well, I was just in a funk.

Tomorrow will be even better, I`m sure :-D

March 4, 2011

Paul McCartney - Dance Tonight

Speaking of vegetarians...



Now here are two fabulous artists - Paul McCartney and Natalie Portman - who just so happen to also be fabulously ethical individuals, in my opinion.

Since she burst onto the scene as a young teenager, I have been drawn to Natalie Portman. Not only for her beauty, but her grace, intelligence and talent. She may only play a bit part in this music video, but it's well worth watching for! She's also doing some amazing things for the vegan movement :-D without being too pushy - just being her amazing vegan self!

Paul McCartney. What accolades can I provide for this man that have not been provided before? And, yes, he is an amazing spokesperson for the animal rights movement as well.

Also, I just LOVE this video!

March 3, 2011

Danny Michel - Beautiful

I interrupt this veg*n month for a brief Michel interlude:



The last time I saw Danny Michel live was at the Edmonton International Folk Music Festival in 2009. While waiting to get an autograph and my photo taken with this fabulous folk singer, I met another adoring fan.

Since Danny is a huge star, this was a huge line we had to wait in, so I talked with the other adoring fan. She explained to me in some sordid manner that when you take a picture with a great musician, it means you are married to them. Like most folk fans, she was obviously crazy, but in the way you can love, not the way that makes your skin crawl and your feet move an immediate two inches backwards. So, as another crazy folk fan, I followed her logic and went along with the photo marriage.

After I had my photo taken with Danny, I went back to the fan, patiently waiting as the next person in line. "I'm married to him, now!" I told her proudly, showing her the photo on my digital camera.

"Um, no," was her response. She went on to explain that, "when somebody else has their photo taken with the same star, your marriage to him becomes a divorce and that marriage is not forever. Soooooo, I'll be his wife next!"

Take what you will from crazy folk fans, I don't care. For all extensive purposes, Danny is my husband...and I'm going to see him live again.... tonight! Maybe we'll have another "wedding"...

March 2, 2011

If You Love Me - Joy Valencia



I have featured Joy on my blog before. And, truly, I think of it as synchronicity that I found her on twitter. I find so many examples of synchronicity on twitter, it's great!  And this blog basically runs off the merits of synchronicity!  Embrace it! Love it! Trust it!

Joy is a vegan musician whose career is about to hit it big. Last time I featured her on my blog, she was fundraising to make her latest music video, which I think will be premiered on April 16 of this year.

I may never have met this beautiful woman, but I know the warmth of her soul already. Her music is so peaceful, her work is guided with love, and she's a vegan, so you know I already love her!

Bon Appetit!

March 1, 2011

MARCH MEAT OUT: MVP Boyz ~ She's a Vegan



If you're a vegan or vegetarian, or even just somebody who pays attention to our "cult" (j/k, we're not actually a cult), you probably already know about March Meat Out. If not, well, today is your lucky day, 'cause you get to find out more about it!

I know Oprah got many people interested in the "vegan-ish" lifestyle a little less than a month ago. She also brought attention to the "v"-word two years ago when she did Kathy Freston's month-long vegan detox diet. (I stress the detox part of it, because Oprah went further with her month-long diet than most everyday vegans - we can eat gluten!) You've all probably heard of Skinny Bitch, too. Well, that's all under the same premise: give up meat, for a month! You won't even miss it!

Nah, I'm joking. You'll probably miss it. It's the most addictive thing your doctor will advise you to consume! (I try to keep my disdain for western medicine off of my blogs, but I'll let that statement remain.) But in that one month, you'll save the lives of eight animals. You'll find this energy you never knew you had (it take much more energy to digest meat than it does vegetable protein)! You may even lose weight! (In seven years, I've shed forty pounds, have enough protein to donate plasma (blood) weekly, rarely get sick and have become five times more aware of how my body should feel.)

It's a challenge, I extend to you all, and I know a few of you will take that challenge! If you need motivation along the way, read my vegan blog at cheatingvegan.blogspot.com.  I'll be posting more frequently there this month, and responding to any of your queries!

Step One: Enjoy this Hilarious Music Video re: Sexy Vegan Girls. It's almost as good as the PETA commercial that was too racy to air during the Superbowl!

February 28, 2011

Day 165: Buck 65 ~ Wicked and Weird



"Will I still be at it when I’m 50 years old? I guarantee you that I will. There may not always be an audience, but that didn’t stop me in the beginning…"

Buck 65's latest release, "Twenty Odd Years" marks a significant amount of time to be in Canada's Hip Hop scene. Sadly, I didn't hear about this artist until last year, his twentieth year of recording. Regardless, I've come to appreciate his merit at this time, and, in the end, that's all that will ever matter!

It's Day 165...I had to feature Buck today ;-)

February 27, 2011

Day 164: Meaghan Smith ~ It Snowed



I look out my window on a foggy-white world. If I look close enough, I realize it's not fog, but small snowflakes falling on a late February ground. Really, spring is still a month away, but many people are still confused by this white world we're forced to be a part of still.

Why can't we all embrace the wintry weather, as this song does, all winter long rather than just in November and December? Can't the romance of it all last more than that magical month of its novelty?

I can only ever speak for myself and my opinion of the world. So, I'll tell you that this is great! I'll take freshly fallen snow over muddy ice and thirty below weather any day! Would I take it over growing puddles, sunny skies and dripping roofs? Hmmmm....well, I'm just as excited for spring as you are ;-) but if it's gonna be cold, it better be snowing!

February 26, 2011

Across The Universe: Carol Woods And Timothy T ~ Let It Be



I'm typeless...

I wish I could put into words the feelings I have right now. I wish that all of the words in the English language would be enough to express my gratitude for synchronicity. I wish I could explain it to you right now...

It's not the right time, though. I wouldn't do it justice at this moment. Another day, another time, I'll be able to explain it in a way that you will understand.

Unless, of course, you already understand.

If so, congratulations! If not...

when the student is ready, the teacher will appear

Maybe I'll be your teacher one day...

February 25, 2011

Natalie Imbruglia - Torn



This song takes me back. I used to love Natalie Imbruglia. I would play her cd OVER and OVER and OVER...and this was always one of the favourite tunes...

February 24, 2011

The Sunshine Underground - Put You In Your Place

For all those Sunshine Underground fans out there, I will begin with an apology...I'm sorry I have nothing more to add to your extensive knowledge about this band other than the fact that I think this is a fabulous song!

Also, I have had them on my iPod for about six months now...and I finally made this my fav new running song...



Ah, the beat! You have to love the beat...

"I'm on top, and you're trying to stop me now/ I'm on top and you're trying to stop me now..." filled me ears as I stared at the speed of the treadmill. It kept me going. I kept going. Faster. Faster. More and more mountains overcome. More and more plateaus pushed through.

I am in love with this song...almost as much as I've fallen in love with running...but my ears won't be stiff tomorrow ;-)

February 23, 2011

Nelly Furtado - I'm Like A Bird



I know I've been very positive lately about staying in one place, remaining focused and dedicated to the path I want to be on right now, and continue to "stay the course," "trust the universe," and view any distractions as tests to my character rather than the "big opportunity"... but I still just wanna fly away somedays...

February 22, 2011

Dishwalla ~ Counting Blue Cars



This evening, I commiserated with a colleague on the abundant discussion surrounding spirituality.  "So many people have brought up religion to me lately," she commented.  I agreed with the sentiment, but expanded it to include the whole winter.

Like most theological discussions, the one that ensued answered fewer questions than it raised.  That, in my opinion, is the purpose of life: to continue to be more curious than you are certain.  When I meet God, if I haven't already, I'll be sure to ask Her about it...

February 21, 2011

Norah Jones - Sunrise



I wrote recently about a similar artist, with a voice almost as amazing as this young woman's.  Luckily, the two are different, so we are blessed with twice as much beautiful music to listen to!

February 20, 2011

blink-182 - What's My Age Again?



Over the last month, I have been having a few issues with feeling "old."  Not that I am, oh no!  At 25, I am the happiest I have ever been in my life, with the most responsibilities I have ever had (a cat, an apartment with a lease agreement, working for myself, trusted with specific responsibilies at the jobs that pay me enough to survive, etc.), and the most care-free attitude I have ever wanted.  It is that attitude, perhaps, that makes me feel like the young men in this song...and wonder if, at twenty-five, I should perhaps care just a little bit more about who, what, where and why people respect me...

I won't change, though...I'm enjoying this free spirit lifestyle!  And as my dear friend warned me when I told her I had to stop closing down the bars, "Oh, Jodi...we're just getting started...."

It's odd, though, that as I begin to start feeling my age, it is songs like this, from my youth, that I flock to.  I really am having a Quarter Life Crisis.

February 19, 2011

Singing in the Rain - Good Morning !!



I hate to post ANOTHER unavailable video, but this one is just so great.  View it on YouTube here.

This is my Saturday song...or at least, on Friday nights, I always think this is going to be my Saturday song. This morning, I was not at all that cheerful to be awake in the morning (Friday night, I may have been...), but alas, this song still had to be sung at some point today!

Singing in the Rain was the first musical I ever saw. I remember the extravagance of it all like it was last year, but it was more like seven years ago this winter! I went with a fellow appreciator of the arts, my dear friend Kira, and we sat in the front row of Vancouver's Stanley theatre. The special effects were the best part - we caught a few splashes from the dance moves when they were singing in the rain. It was a delightful experience!

I kept the poster from this show as a reminder of that first year in the big city. When I hear this song, talk about musicals, or even just see a bright yellow raincoat, I am taken back to that time. It was a really good year...

Once again, there are lyrics along the bottom of the video, so you can sing along, learn the words, and serenade me the next time you see me on a Saturday morning (or Friday night)!

February 18, 2011

The Dandy Warhols - Bohemian Like You



Believe it or not, this song has been on my "to post" list for quite a few weeks, let alone days. Today finally felt like the PERFECT day for it.

Reasons I love this song:

* the beat
* the mention of "vegan"
* both characters are servers
* the "ex on the couch" reminds me of one of my top five movies, Reality Bites
* I have this unbelievable urge to twirl like a dervish whenever the tune randomly appears on my iPod. :-D

This video ROCKS as well. Karaoke, anybody? L-O-V-E IT!

February 17, 2011

Peter Bjorn And John ~ Young Folks



This song, like many others, reminds me of my first summer in Edmonton. Of course, it had come out the year before, but with many other things in my life, I'm never very up-to-date on music (yes, even with this music blog I'm doing!).

That was an interesting summer that I've been thinking about a lot lately. It's only fitting, then - considering today's song - that that summer marks a change in the friendships I make. Before living in Edmonton, most of my friends were older than me. Afterwards, most of my friends became younger than me. I'm going to take a paragraph or two to ruminate on that...

I remember this discussion I had with my aunt, a year or two before that summer. I was talking about feeling out of place because the friends I was making were all older than me. This was not something to be overly concerned with, she reassured me. For most of her life, she has been attracted to people of certain ages. In her twenties, her friends all seemed to be thirty-five. In her thirties, she spent her days with twenty-seven-year-olds. By her forties, she gravitated back to the thirty-five-year-olds.

This is a rough description of a conversation that had quite the impact on my life, and for that I apologize. The idea of being attracted to a certain age of a person rather than the personality or common interests of my friends took some time to adjust to. Once I was comfortable with it, though, I clung to this notion and allowed it to shape my perception of friendship. There was less questions about favourite bands or the latest book some one had read and more or an emphasis on, "so...what year were you born?" I'm not sure if either of those two questions can a good friend create.

A year after the conversation, I began to make friends with people my age. They were all still a few months older than I, but at the same stage of preparation for the "real world." It was a relief to finally find a group of peers I had SO much in common with, and I began to worry less about lacking the life skills of the people I hung around with. In fact, I may have brought many life skills to the social group I corrupted in university...but that's a different story altogether. Our time together may have been short - a mere two years - but I made some friendships there that will last a lifetime. As I've written about before, it's nice to have a solid group of people to go through different life stages with.

Suddenly, I was thrust from that world - the Land of Lotus Eaters, nights of writing and rewriting, reading and researching, chatting and wheelie-chair racing - and into the "Real World." Or so I thought I would be. I took a job working for an outdoor museum in the largest city within a day's trip to my hometown. Ah, back to the dry air, brown ditches and hot summers of the prairies. I was excited to have a job outside of retail and thought it would be great to finally make some money!

Me, the university grad with my older sister's connection, walked into the first day expecting to find like-minded historians and perhaps a few fellow closet-thespians. While we all had a passion for the arts, and became quite attached to the historical accuracies of our characters and the buildings we showed off to visitors, I quickly realized that I was among the older group of employees...and not overly attracted to making friends with the rest of the people in the older group. (Of course, my older sister's connection will always be a dear friend to me, and I have love for everybody I worked with at the museum.) Instead, I gravitated to the group of individuals who had a)finished their first year in university b)hadn't even started university. Why this attraction? ...

I took this temporary position because I was leaving for England in the fall. My friends from university were all talking about grad school and academia and I needed to take a break. A long break. A decade break. But school was the only thing I had ever known. School was the only thing I thought I had ever been good at. Academia was my thing. I was, for the most part, beginning my quarter life crisis...

I remember bawling the day I realized I was leaving Vancouver. I must have spent four hours just sitting in the study lounge, unable to concentrate on real, important school work because I was so distraught with this realization. I tried walking around campus, trying to calm down, but I couldn't. Vancouver was where I had found myself. Vancouver was the first place I felt at home. How could I leave a place once I finally felt at peace with it? I had known for several months that I would leave after my degree, but actually coming to terms with it brought me to tears.

So, here I was, two months later in Edmonton, starting a new life that I thought would only be temporary. I was only supposed to be here for four months, and it'll be the fourth anniversary of my arrival this spring. The girl who sat beside me in our training course will convocate. Other dear friends have already left this city to continue their education. And I remain, stuck in this rut...making new friends who are just starting university now. I continue to get older, but my friends always stay the same age...

The other night I was talking with two of these new friends. The one is in her first year of uni, the other in his third. I made comments to shows that were on television when I was in junior high, and they have no idea what I'm talking about! I share my opinions on life and they remind me of how I, too, used to be so convinced that there was one truth, and that my mentor knew all the answers. In a moment of frustration, I told them I couldn't do this. How could I explain to these "young folks" all the things I have learned so far? It doesn't matter, even if I could put it all into words, because they're "young folks." They don't really care about them "old folks"...

I wonder what great adventure lies next for me. What age will I gravitate towards in my next city? And how long from now will that new story begin?

February 16, 2011

Danny Michel ~ Feather Fur and Fin



As if being an amazing musician wasn't enough, Danny is also concerned with the environment. This song is featured on David Suzuki's Playlist for the Planet. And, well, it's an amazing song...and video.

Find out more at http://www.dannymichel.com/

Also, he'll be in Edmonton in two weeks... I'm stoked!

Danny is one of my top ten favourite artists, as I discussed in my Top 25 of 2010., where he was number three!  Somedays, he's definitely number one...

February 15, 2011

David May Feat. Max Urban ~ Facebook Love

I've been a cynic on love recently, both on this blog and on one of my other blogs. I've also embraced it and and its beauty - on Valentine's Day, of course. And, now, I'm tempted to laugh in its face:



This is a REAL song. I heard about this song over the satellite radio at work, not just as a spoof somewhere online. The artist isn't some boy in his basement, whining about some hot girl he saw online....well, the boy in the basement doesn't exist...

People actually enjoy listening to this song. Now, I like R&B, and certain parts of this song sound very good...but, seriously?!? There is a song out there about finding your love on Facebook. We really have become the "Social Network" society, haven't we?

Whatever happened to serendipity and meeting people in real life? I have seen it happen!  Like I tell all my besties: "don't worry about me finding love...it'll happen one day in the market. I'll just be reaching for some tomatoes..."

February 14, 2011

Bright Eyes ~ First Day Of My Life



If you are looking for the best love song ever written, you need look no further than Bright Eyes.

This is such a sweet song, so I'll stop my recent romantic cynicism to share with you this song. If any one can take me back to being just another one of those hopeless romantics, it's definitely Bright Eyes!

And, well, this is the cutest idea for a video ever...definitely trumps Cake's Short Skirt Long Jacket.

February 13, 2011

Meiko - Reasons to love you



Since posting about Diana Pops yesterday, I've gone back to listen to Meiko, whose music led me to her.  Most of Meiko's music is more upbeat than that of Diana Pops, except for this song.  Both ladies sing so earnestly, and somewhat bittersweetly about a feeling that our society has put so much emphasis on...

And it is a great feeling.  It deserves to get more attention than other strong emotions, such as hatred, anger, sadness, etc.  All the world needs is love, right?

Okay, so now is when I get all cynical on you.  Of course, it's the day before the big V-Day - every single girl gets to eb cynical this time of year...

I watched a romantic drama with one of my best friends this week.  It was a sneak peak, and this may ruin the ending for you.  Although, with a romance, can you ever ruin the ending?  We've all seen enough of them to suspect the two star-crossed lovers will eventually end up together.  Which is exactly why I was so cynical after watching the movie.  The two had the choice of living their lives apart and becoming the next greatest thing to the world...but they sacrificed that all in order to be with each other, all because they enjoyed love so much...

Don't get me wrong, I'm a romantic person, and I love to fall in love (I'm still a socially-conditioned girl, after all), but why most there always be this grand sacrifice that needs to be made for the one person you pledge to spend the rest fo your life with?  And, if not, then won't society actually be better off if we all live up to our potential rather than working so hard to find that one person we can't live without?  If we put as much effort into making the world a better place rather than finding "Mr. Right," just think of what a difference we could make?  Plus, as a Romantic, I strongly believe that if it's meant to be, it will be (despite the amount of relationship books on my bookshelf).  And that moment of accidentally "falling in love" is much more magical if you're completely blind-sighted by it rather than trying to plan it out.

So, in conclusion, love is a many splendour thing, but we mustn't spend our days pining for it to find us, or changing ourselves merely to attract the objects of our affection.  When we're in love, we should enjoy it, 'cause it may be fleeting. And when we're not, we should love ourselves, 'cause we're all pretty awesome.  And, once you reach that point of fully loving yourself, you can do whatever you want in the world, and you won't need to make that sacrifice, unless that was the plan all along.

But, ask me again when I'm not a single woman and I'll probably tell you a different story ;-D

February 12, 2011

Diana Pops ~ Light My Cigarette

"Los Angeles is a city of orphans, all with something to prove, so many of which are the brightest stars of their former homes. We all come here to "make it", trading the security of our hometowns for the chance at a future where we can live our dreams on a daily basis. " ~ Diana Pops


Over the holidays, my mother shared a horoscope for 2011 with our family. I know that some people look at horoscopes as mere fun and games - and sometimes they are - but for me, I put more faith in them. They are not always accurate, but in the times when you really need to be encouraged, some part of the universe will provide you with what you deserve. Horoscopes have been my gift from the universe for many years, especially when I most needed to hear some encouraging.

According to the horoscope for 2011, this is the year when many people will find their success. I was talking to a musical friend the other day, and it seems like he's gonna make some progress on his dream this summer (more to come on that closer to the time, I'm sure). An old high school classmate will have her first album out this year (more to come on that as well). And as for me, this is a year of sea change for me and I'm pretty stoked for any success to come out of it, as it's already starting to.

The biggest steps I'm taking to reach that success is engaging with my creative soul. As I learn more and more about this Diana Pop, it is that search - a creative journey to find one's fate - that draws me to her melancholic tunes. She is not just music, she is art.  She's a painter, a remodeler, even a welder.  However she can create, she creates.  With her music, she creates emotions for her listeners.  Perhaps not always joyous ones, but the kind that soaks into your soul regardless.  In her writing, I know she is a positive person. She sees the silver lining in the grey-clouded days and this is what keeps her going...but the pain of life has inspired her to share her talent, luckily with the world.

"I dwell on moments and scenes instead of every day life and the bigger picture. Then I wonder why the world feels so small sometimes. I used to sit outside on windy days because it felt like the whole world was whirling around me, encapsulated in a single gust of north wind. Just like I used to think that love was actually encircled in a wedding ring.
I had an interesting conversation with a friend of mine tonight. We were talking about relationships (as people our age are apt to do). He's always pushing me to be me. Unfortunately, I'm always looking for reaction and happenstance to tell me who I am. I think that mentality is a reaction in and of itself. I'm mourning the loss of my years as a little girl and indignant that theres not much of an interim between childhood and womanhood. I don't feel ready to sufficently embrace being an adult. I haven't figured myself out enough yet. How can I be myself if the version of myself that I know seems so unfit for an adult world?
How can I expect a man to love me when I'm too afraid to unveil the real me until I "have it all together" ?
No one ever has it all together. And now I'm talking in circles.
I guess the fact is, I will always daydream, hopelessly overanylize, read into nothing and everything, hope for the best, and sit outside on windy days." ~ Diana Pops, 5 March 2007

This is just her writing, though, emotions read rather than heard. To get a true sense of her passion, you must listen to her! Sadly, no videos to watch....yet. She has an EP coming out on Feb 22 on iTunes. Until then, listen to her on MySpace or Facebook.

It was only a month ago, after posting about Meiko, that I had a reader of this blog tell me about this young woman from Winnipeg. She's been chasing her lifelong dream for years now, and it looks like things are about to start happening rather quickly for her. As with most Canadian artists, she has my support in every way!  Good luck, Diana!

February 11, 2011

Katie Melua - Two Bare Feet

Another song from my Running list this summer...




'Tis the month of romance, apparently, so 'twould be a shame not to include Miss Katie Melua this month. She is one of the most romantic singers I know. This is the least romantic of her songs, but I still feel the romance of it. I have this image in my head, while listening to it, of these two mice dancing together. Now that I've provided you with the video, you might not get that yourself, but these are good images, too!

February 10, 2011

Daniel Powter ~ Bad Day

I love that a song about a negative fraction of time became a "One Hit Wonder." If only those negative fractions of time could remain "One Hit Wonders" themselves...




My fellow Canadian, Daniel Powter, grew up in Vernon, BC. Like many other artistically-inclined little boys, he was bullied throughout school. Thank goodness for that, too! He began out playing the violin, but changed to piano after a group of children destroyed his violin. Music was where Mr. Powter could find his zen, though, and he continued to pursue it, even attempting to study it in university. Sadly, as a dyslexic, Powter struggled in university, and later dropped out. He chose, instead, Life University, which I'm currently enrolled in as a Masters students (and like my friends working on their Masters as well, I hope it takes me a long time to finish!). Powter knew his gift early on, though, and has used his time at the University of Life to learn music by ear and the business of the music industry by trial and error...

Powter's first album was released in 2000, to a small fanbase. He got some airtime on a small Canadian television show, Higher Ground, and things started to gain momentum. Then, in 2005, supported by Warner Bros. Records, Powter released this, his first single...and it exploded in Europe. Warner had submitted the record for some commercial production, and all across Europe, music lovers and pop addicts couldn't get the tune out of his head. Thank you, Coca-Cola, for continuing to support the capitalist growth of good talent... (and I'm serious about that. I like that artists can get through big breaks through capitalism just as much as they get it through socialism...as long as they don't get it through nepotism, I'm pretty much okay with it ;-D)

In December 2009, Powter was named as the decade's top One-Hit Wonder by Billboard Magazine. The magazine describes one-hit wonders as acts whose second hit did not reach the top 25...that was last decade, though...we'll see how the day following "Bad Day" goes...

February 9, 2011

Day 146: Royal Wood live on Mamma Yamma

Well, now that I recognize the sort of week I'm having:



And one more for those out there with children...or the children inside all of us...

Thank you, Mr. Royal Wood!

February 8, 2011

Day 145: A Little Lesson In History, In The Key of Canadiana

Just another evening around my apartment. Washing dishes from the morning, mixing vegan muffins on the counter across from my sink and, of course, tuning into CBC's Canadian Songwriters' online stream from CBC's website.

Suddenly, I was transported back to my father's shop, listening to classic "country tunes" he loved, while painting, building, or working on one of his miscellaneous projects.



BUT... this was not the tune coming from CBC's Canadian Songwriters' Channel? As fabulously as Mr. Johnny Cash was, he was no Canadian - sorry to disappoint you all (and that's supposed to be two words. :-D) And so, this was not the tune I was used to hearing. Who could be singing?

This song has quite the history! The original is, in fact, Australian - and I wouldn't recognize a single place in that song. Turns out, it was a Canadian-born Songwriter, Hank Snow, who changed the names and the opening line of Australian Geoff Mack's version to create the North American song we over here all know and love:



This was more likely the tune I would hear pumping from my father's ol' tape deck in his shop... BUT, this was still not the song I was listening to...

Luckily CBC encourages the promotion of fellow Canadian artists (with funding like that, it's kind of their "thing"). And so I was able to catch the name before the end of the song and search for the artist, Mike Ford.

Now, apparently, I'm on a theme of the younger audience this week... Completely coincidental and random, of course, 'cause that's how I roll. Turns out this artist tours the country, providing history lessons to young minds through song. And not necessarily the folky songs we've all come to expect from Canadian history songs...

Sadly, I could not find a video of Mike Ford and his lovely Canadian version of "I've Been Everywhere;" however, he was once in the same band as another gorgeous Canadian, who interviewed him this one time:



Although not entirely musical, I do reccomend watching this interview. Ford is quite eloquent in his self promotion, and I don't doubt he would be a fabulous guest to have in your classroom, if you're a teacher or student. Or, perhaps you're just a Canadian or history buff like me. Check out his website: http://www.mikeford.ca/pages/canada_song.html to order his music, have him come to your classroom or to just learn more about this educational Canadian artist!