The Soffe Report

My Favorite Albums of 2011

2012-01-01T23:00:00.003-07:00

I'm not going to write a whole lot about my favorite albums, but I will deliver twenty albums for my list, instead of the usual ten. So, just like your local rock-oriented station, I'll give you the list with less talk and more rock.

20. David Mead - Dudes
David Mead is a professional pop song-writer and knows his way around a melody.

"Happy Birthday, Marty Ryan"

19. The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart - Belong
Sophomore album shows no slump.

"Heart In Your Heartbreak"

18. Girls - Father, Son, Holy Ghost
I love the self-loathing of these guys.

"Vomit"

17. Matthew Sweet - Modern Art
One of my all-time favorites delivers a solid album of power pop.

"She Walks The Night"

16. St. Vincent - Strange Mercy
I absolutely love her.

"Cruel"

15. Elbow - build a rocket, boys!
These important Mancunians are still underappreciated in the U.S.

"Lippy Kids"

14. TV On The Radio - Nine Types Of Light
Not as good as their last album, but their so-so albums are still pretty good.

"Will Do"

13. The Horrors - Skying
More moody music from across the pond.

"Still Life"

12. Washed Out - Within and Without
One of the standard bearers of "chill-wave." Save this one for the late nights.

"Amor Fati"

11. My Morning Jacket - Circuital
Jim James still has some of the best vocals in indie rock.

"Movin Away"

10. We Were Promised Jetpacks - In The Pit Of The Stomach
I'm so glad these young Scots put out another solid album.

"Human Error"

9. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues
I saw these guys in Paris and they were fantastic.

"Helplessness Blues"

8. Yuck - Yuck
Great debut album.

"Get Away"

7. Destroyer - Kaputt
Dan Bejar of New Pornographers fame releases a long-lost 80s album...think Roxy Music or Haircut 100.

"Kaputt"

6. Cut Copy - Zonoscope
Some of the year's best synth-pop.

"Need You Now"

5. Bon Iver - Bon Iver
I prefer the first album BEFORE he started hanging out with Kanye. He's still pretty good.

"Towers"

4. Beirut - The Rip Tide
I absolutely love accordions, trumpets, and whatever else he wants to throw into his musical melting pot.

"Santa Fe"

3. M83 - Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming
French synth-pop that delivered one of the best sax solos in ages, just check the end of "Midnight City."

"Midnight City"

2. Wye Oak - Civilian
I arrived at this one a little late, but couldn't stop listening to it by the end of the year.

"Doubt"

1. Hooray For Earth - True Loves
These guys came out of nowhere and released a classic synth-pop album.

"Sails"

My Favorite Albums of 2010

2011-01-09T20:25:00.003-07:00

First of all, I apologize for abandoning the blog for so long. I have received some gentle encouragement to get back to it. I suppose there is not a better time to repent than the new year, which allows me to share some of my favorite music of the past year.

There are many, many good albums that just missed the top 10. Ryan Adams, Stars, Strand of Oaks, Local Natives, Retribution Gospel Choir, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, Titus Andronicus, Arcade Fire, LCD Soundsystem, Spoon, Frightened Rabbit, New Pornographers, Owen Pallett and probably a few others I'm missing.

Anyways, here's the list...

10. Guster - Easy Wonderful

This album was a pleasant surprise. I haven't listened to much Guster since the late 90s, and certainly felt that their best days were behind them. I checked out their album more out of curiosity than anything else and absolutely loved it. The songwriting is great. The production is tight. They even produced a really great video for their first single.

Guster - "Do You Love Me"

9. Jonsi - Go

This is the solo album from the lead singer of Sigur Ros, perhaps my favorite band from the past decade. This album is lighter and more straight forward than a traditional Sigur Ros album, but all of the elements you expect, orchestral arrangements, non-sensical lyrics, huge moments, are there.

Jonsi - "Boy Lilikoi"

8. Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More

While difficult to describe the sound of Mumford & Sons, it's easy to say that this London band released one of the best debut albums of 2010. I've heard some describe them as an English Avett Brothers, which isn't too far off. Both are loosely considered bluegrass and are known for their energetic live shows with band members playing multiple instruments, and of course both are just plain fantastic.

Mumford & Sons - "White Blank Page"

7. Sufjan Stevens - The Age of Adz

While it doesn't appear the Sufjan is going to complete is "50 States" album project, this long awaited release took his music into more experimental areas. Perhaps tired of being labeled an orchestral folkie, this album experiments with all sorts of electronic blips and bleeps, while maintaining the usual melodic quality of Stevens' songwriting. Stevens also released All Delighted People, a sixty plus minute EP that featured tracks just as strong as those on The Age of Adz.

Sufjan Stevens - "Too Much"

6. Wild Nothing - Gemini

I love the college rock of the 1980s. Jack Tatum, the Virginia Tech student that produced the one-man project Wild Nothing, must also be a fan. He essentially samples, without being derivative, the best of 80s alternative music. As I listened to the album, I heard Cocteau Twins, The Smiths, Kate Bush, Jesus & Mary Chain, Echo & The Bunnymen all mixed together without it sounding like any single source.

Wild Nothing - "Chinatown"

5. Deerhunter - Halcyon Digest

Describing themselves as "ambient punk," Deerhunter have always been a little too scattered and noisy for any of their previously albums to get repeated listens from me. My attitude towards them changed with Halcyon Digest, an album that is much more streamlined and focused than previous efforts. That focus results in a stunningly beautiful album that reminds of my favorite shoegazing bands from the early 90s.

Deerhunter - "Desire Lines" (live)

4. Band of Horses - Infinite Arms

When I first listened to this album, I pushed it aside and dismissed it. It didn't fit with what I expected from a Band of Horses record, specifically too much Americana and not enough rock. There was no "Funeral" or "No One's Gonna Love You," tracks that were immediately accessible on their previous two releases. Months later, I tried listening to it again, and began to fall in love with what they had done. Some albums reward repeated listens and I finally heard the album's greatness. (By the way, one of my favorite tracks of 2010 was Cee Lo Green's cover of BofH's "No One's Gonna Love You." I'll include it as well.)

Band of Horses - "Infinite Arms" (live)

Cee Lo Green - "No One's Gonna Love You"

3. The Tallest Man On Earth - The Wild Hunt

This past year, I often described folk-singer, Kristian Matsson, as the Swedish Bob Dylan. Mainly, it's because of the voice. But like Dylan, there's something magical about this album. I'll admit a certain distaste of solo artists with a guitar, coffee-shop albums, so it's a shock to myself that this album was one of my favorites.

The Tallest Man On Earth - "The Dreamer" (live)

2. The National - High Violet

If you're reading this, you're probably already sold on the National. They have become one of the standard bearers of indie rock, and with good reason. They seem to be writing and producing music that speaks to adults that are not quite sure they are ready to become adults. The Pitchfork reviewer of High Violet describes their importance for "writing about the type of lived-in moments that rock bands usually don't write about that well. The characters in National songs have real jobs, have uninteresting sex, get drunk, and lie to one another." It doesn't hurt that they can close shows with moments like the one below.

The National - "Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks" (live)

1. The Walkmen - Lisbon

Like the National, the Walkmen speak to thritysomethings in the process of growing up. However, the Walkmen are far more desperate and unhinged than their fellow New Yorkers. One Pitchfork reviewer comparing the two bands described the Walkmen as "more theatrical and unwound than that [the National]-- they're the guys out in the middle of the street, screaming up at the sky, begging to know why everything always falls apart." I don't think Hamilton Leithauser and the boys are that unhinged, but this IS the same band that gave you "The Rat." From top to bottom, Lisbon is a completely breathtaking album that paints with a diverse musical palette, including surf rock, Sun Records rockabilly, garage rock, and mariachi horns.

The Walkmen - "Angela Surf City" (live)

Speaking of Scenes...North Carolina

2009-08-18T11:07:00.006-06:00

One of my five readers reminded me of a current scene that I neglected to give a shout out, although I’ve been giving at least one of these bands a shout out for some time now. This summer three North Carolina bands have released some great music. In the seventies, southern rock meant Lyrnard Skynard or the Allman Brothers. By the eighties, bands like R.E.M. and the Connells gave us great jangle-pop. Today, my North Carolina bands play beautiful acoustic based music with luscious harmonies, while sporting wonderful facial hair.

The Bowerbirds hail from Raleigh, feature lush male-female vocals with guitar, accordion, and the occasional violin. It all blends together into something rather beautiful and whimsical. They toured last year with Bon Iver(a Wisconsin native that was part of the North Carolina scene) and are currently on the road promoting their new album, "Upper Air".

The Bowerbirds - "Beneath Your Tree" (Live From Austria!)

Durahm based Megafaun have been on the road with the Bowerbirds supporting their wonderful new album “Gather, Form, and Fly.” The trio (brothers Brad & Phil Cook and Joe Westerlund) all originally hail from Wisconsin and moved to North Carolina with former bandmate, Justin Vernon (aka Bon Iver). After Vernon left the band, Megafaun emerged from the ashes. Stereogum described their music as “mournful, slow-blooming banjo-and-white-noise-laced epics,” and I completely agree. If you started with the Fleet Foxes, added the whimsy and melody of Brian Wilson, and the experimental fun of Radiohead, you’d have Megafaun.

Megafaun - "Tides" (Live From Phoenix)

Megafaun at the Rhythm Room in Phoenix, AZ 8.6.2009 from welldonemedia on Vimeo.

Of course, no band has received as much praise on the Soffe Report as the Avett Brothers. These favorite sons of Concord, North Carolina are set to release their first major label recording, “I And Love And You,” produced by the legendary Rick Rubin. While many have found their music difficult to characterize, the San Francisco Chronicle gives it a good attempt, describing the Avetts as having “the heavy sadness of Townes Van Zandt, the light pop concision of Buddy Holly, the tuneful jangle of the Beatles, and the raw energy of the Ramones." The band is currently touring and will make a stop in Salt Lake City next week at Red Butte Gardens. Of course, I will be in attendance.

Here is a clip from a great little project where artists covered the songs of Bruce Springsteen, "Hangin On E Street". It's definitely worth your time to check it out.

The Avett Brothers - "Glory Days" (Bruce Springsteen Cover)

If it's not Scottish, it's crap!

2009-08-14T14:44:00.003-06:00

I’ve always liked a good music scene, whether it’s defined by style (power-pop), label (Matador), or country (British Invasion), or even more specifically in city (Seattle). In high school, I was enamored by Manchester, England, mainly due to The Smiths, James, and New Order, but also because of Madchester bands Stone Roses, Inspiral Carpets, and the Charlatans. Even today, two of my favorites bands, Doves & Elbow, call Manchester home.

(True story alert: When I was interviewed by my Bishop to serve a Mormon mission, he informed me that my medical papers indicated a need to send me to a first world country. When he asked if I was O.K. with it, I told him that he could at least write on my papers a preference for service in the Manchester England mission. He thought it was a joke and laughed. I was very serious and insisted he include that information for the missionary committee to consider, which he did. The committee, instead, decided I needed to cultivate a love for Reggae music and sent me to East Africa.)

As far as current musical scenes, Sweden has always been home to beautiful pop music, it must have something to do with the socialism. New York seems to keep producing bands that channel Joy Division. However, my current favorite scene happens to be Scotland. Over the years, the Scots have given us numerous great bands; such as Big Country, Aztec Camera, Simple Minds, Cocteau Twins, The Jesus And The Mary Chain, Trashcan Sinatras, Teenage Fanclub, Belle & Sebastian, Camera Obscura, Idlewild, Aereogramme, Travis, Biffy Clyro, and Franz Ferdinand. For an area with a little over five million people, Scotland has done quite well. Consider that my home state of Utah has just under three million people, and have only given the world the Osmonds and The Used.

Anyways, Scotland is continuing to churn out great bands, with one of them releasing a favorite album of this year. In somewhat of a cinematic start, We Were Promised Jetpacks, , played their first gig at their Edinburgh school’s “Battle of the Bands”, which they won. They later moved to Glasgow and were eventually signed to Fat Cat Records after the label listened to their MySpace page. They released their debut album, ‘These Four Walls’, this past June to impressive critical acclaim and are now touring the U.S.. Like label mates The Twilight Sad and Frightened Rabbit, they play anthemic rocks songs with thick, emotive accents rooted in the post-punk tradition. I admit that I’m a sucker for the accent.

All three bands will be playing in Salt Lake City, September 14, at the Urban Lounge. If you need more convincing to be there, here are a few clips of each band.

We Were Promised Jetpacks - "It's Thunder And It's Lightning" (six gig mash-up)

Frightened Rabbit - "The Modern Leper" (Acoustic)

The Twilight Sad - "And She Would Darken The Memory"

Things I Like: Mad Men

2009-08-11T17:41:00.005-06:00

The summer movie season has been less than spectacular. In addition, movies designed to take advantage of my childhood memories, Transformers and G.I. Joe, were just awful, like Ishtar or Battlefield Earth awful. What a betrayal. And with the lone exception of So You Think You Can Dance, summer television had been exhibit A in the devolution of society, with shows like Dating In The Dark and the "Fat Bachelor" front and center. Aside from some great music, which I'll get to later this week, summer media has been a huge disappointment. All of this will change Sunday when Mad Men returns for its third season. If you want to get on board, the first two seasons are available on DVD and are only 13 episodes each.

I'll admit. I missed out on the first season of Mad Men when it originally aired, as did most of America. Matt Weiner's vision, rejected by HBO after hard lobbying by Sopranos creator David Chase, was finally picked up by AMC, not necessarily known for daring original programing. The first season was seen by fewer than a million people, but each one of those people raved that Mad Men was the greatest show on television. Set in 1960s New York City at Madison Avenue advertising firm Sterling Cooper, the time period is ultimately the main character. Weiner is obsessive-compulsive when it comes to details, and everything looks fabulous. The clothing, hair, music, and even the historical events of the time transport the viewer to a sexy, almost forgotten, time in our history. There has been plenty of movies and shows dealing with the riotous, "hippie" side of the 60s, but few have looked so closely at the man in the gray flannel suit.

It also helps when the man in the gray flannel suit is Don Draper. Played perfectly by Jon Hamm, Draper is the ultimate portrayal of 1960s masculinity. He is good looking, smart, and always says and does the right thing, even when he does the wrong thing. The younger executives at Sterling Cooper idolize him. Women constantly flirt with him. It is clear that he plays by a different set of rules than the rest of society. He lives in a bubble, but clearly knows it. Unlike Hamm's character on 30 Rock that lives in a bubble, but is hilariously unaware. Draper is the heart and soul of Sterling Cooper, and certainly carries the show.

As I said before, I missed the first season, but finally jumped aboard after watching Hamm's terrific SNL performance featuring two Mad Men themed sketches. So instead of sharing a favorite clip from Mad Men, here are the SNL sketches that pushed me to watch. Please enjoy and go watch the first two seasons. If you are already a viewer, check out the links to two Mad Men related stories in Vanity Fair and the A.V. Club that help preview the third season.

Don Draper's Guide To Picking Up Women

Two A-Holes at an Ad Agency in the 1960s

John Hughes (1950-2009)

2009-08-06T17:51:00.006-06:00

I entered the eighties a five year old boy and left it as an unsure teenager on the verge of adulthood. In many ways, I was raised on media; which is both good and bad (see Chuck Klosterman’s essay “This is Emo” from his wonderful book Sex, Drugs, And Cocoa Puffs for further elaboration on pop culture’s influence on our expectations of love). With that said, the movies of John Hughes had immeasurable impact on me and taught many life lessons. It’s O.K. to be yourself, in fact, you need to embrace yourself. Love is a complicated thing and you can find it in unusual places. Sometimes you need a day off to just play. You can make the perfect girl with a computer and the power of science. Today, I was saddened to hear of the passing of John Hughes. His pop culture influence is immeasurable. His movies also featured great music...so here are some clips of classic songs from John Hughes films.

Simple Minds - "Don't You Forget About Me" (The Breakfast Club)

The Psychadelic Furs - "Pretty In Pink" (Pretty In Pink)

My First CD

2009-08-05T11:30:00.003-06:00

The first recorded music I owned was Michael Jackson’s Thriller, which is not a real surprise considering my age. Anecdotes of Jackson’s impact have been heard regularly since his death, with Thriller being a generational touchstone. At the time, I thought all music was bought on vinyl. My parents record collection seems to stopped right around the time of my birth, which also means I didn’t get to play around with the 8-track format. A few years after thriller, my parents decided it was time I had my own stereo, which meant cassette/radio. This was no “ghetto blaster”, but it certainly got the job done. My parents also allowed me to join the Columbia House Record & Tape Club. How could I dismiss an offer like 12 tapes for a penny? My parents would worry about the commitment to buy more tapes at highly inflated prices later. The gratification of receiving a box of music seemed too good to pass up. I can’t remember all my choices, but Bruce Springsteen, Dire Straits, and Simon & Garfunkel seem to be involved. As I moved into high school I explored the classic rock of Led Zeppelin, the Doors, and the Beatles, but also received my first exposure to important bands like R.E.M., Depeche Mode, and the Cure. In many ways, I resented not having an older sibling to steer me in the right musical direction. Musical mentors are very important in life. This was of course reaffirmed to me by a great scene in Almost Famous, where a young William Miller receives his older sister’s record collection. William Miller also receives mentoring from Lester Bangs, which doesn’t suck at all.

(A good excuse to share one of my all-time favorite movie scenes and quotes.)

(This scene where William inherits his sister's records is dubbed in Italian, but it's all I could find. However, you'll get the picture, especially at 1:44 of the clip.)

Anyways, it wasn’t until I was sixteen, that I acquired a Compact Disc player. These magical devices where amazing to me. The discs were portable, unlike vinyl, and you could skip to any track you like. I was also happy that not another tape was going to get destroyed by my tape player eating it. I still can’t listen to Midnight Oil’s Blue Sky Mine, without imagining the garbled spots left by my tape player. So once I got the CD player, now all I needed was the CD. When I went to Hasting's with my hard earned money, one title stood out to me, Trash Can Sinatras’ Cake. I had just seen them on an episode of 120 Minutes, MTV’s two hour oasis of alternative music, which I seemed to interpret as British. After an hour or so of deliberating, I pulled the trigger on the Trashcans and have been in love ever since, both with the band and with recorded music in general. I have thousands of CDs and have obviously made many good and poor choices. However, my first choice was one of my best.

The Trashcan Sinatras didn’t survive the nineties well. Their style just didn’t fit in with the harsh sound of popular alternative, most famously characterized by grunge. Their third album wasn’t even released in the U.S., and they just kind of faded away. In 2004 I learned that the band had some new songs and were putting out an album and even planning a tour of the states. It was amazing to see one of the bands of my teenage years make a comeback, and do it so competently. Tonight, the Trashcan Sinatras come back to Salt Lake City with a new album of quiet beautiful songs. I wouldn’t miss them for anything. Welcome back.

Trashcan Sinatras - "Hayfever"

Trashcan Sinatras - "The Genius I Was"

Happy Moon Landing!!!!

2009-07-20T11:59:00.002-06:00

I almost forgot I had a blog. Anyways, I thought I'd commemorate 40th anniversary of the Apollo lunar landing with a few clips for your enjoyment. It was fitting payback to the Russians for Sputnik and one of the few positive news stories of the sixties. So here's to the moon...

Apollo 11 on the Sea of Tranquility

The Police - "Walking On The Moon"

Frank Sinatra - "Fly Me To The Moon"

Things I Like: Late Night w/ Jimmy Fallon

2009-06-09T17:25:00.000-06:00

I was never a Jimmy Fallon fan when he was on SNL. He was a capable Weekend Update host, but seemed to crack himself up a little too much in the sketches. With that said, I had low expectations with him moving into Conan O'Brien's late night spot. However, when he hired the Roots as his house band, my interest was piqued. After watching the first week of shows, I was a fan. Jimmy is too earnest for me to root against him. While his first monologue was rough, I loved it when he slow-jammed the news. I applaud his quest to reunite the "Saved By The Bell" cast. I love his weekly spoof on the Hills, "7th Floor West". I enjoy the way he interacts with his guests, reminds me of a toned down Chris Farley from the famous "Chris Farely Show" SNL sketches.

Here are three great clips of Jimmy Fallon at his best. First, we have last night's interview of Mark-Paul Gosselaar playing the interview AS Zach Morris. Second, we have an episode of "7th Floor West". Last, we have Jimmy slow-jammin' the news with the Roots. Enjoy.

Zach Morris on Jimmy Fallon

7th Floor West - Episode 1, "Tie Me Up, Tie Me Down"

Slow Jammin' the News

School's Out (For Summer)

2009-06-05T09:26:00.002-06:00

I love summer vacation. I love muppets. So here's the perfect clip to get my summer going. And if anyone wants to hang out, do lunch, go see a movie in the middle of the day, give me a call. I have some free time.

Alice Cooper & Muppets - "School's Out"

A Reason Not To Go To Bed After Weekend Update

2009-05-18T18:21:00.002-06:00

Will Ferrell hosted the season finale of SNL and delivered some great comedy. I know many people have given up on the show, but I still find two or three great moments per show, which is actually how the show has always been. Ferrell revived his George W. Bush, Alex Trebek hosting Celebrity Jeopardy, and even Harry Caray, a personal favorite of mine. You can check out most of Ferrell's work over at Hulu. However, my favorite sketch of the night was left off the Hulu playlist. See if you can name all the "guests" that appear in this wonderful sketch that closed the show. Please enjoy.

Will Ferrell - "Goodnight Saigon"

I Love Kids Singing Pop Songs

2009-04-30T21:17:00.002-06:00

I’m in the middle of AP test preparation, stressed out of my mind, and worn down from a rough school year. However, every once in a while you encounter something that gives you hope and inspires you to keep going and do better. A few years back I discovered the Langley Schools Music Project, a rare seventies album where some hippie music teacher recorded his elementary school classes performing classic tunes by David Bowie, the Beach Boys, and the Beatles. These albums were rediscovered and properly released a few years ago. A short documentary was made that helped inspire the Jack Black classic, School of Rock. Well, it appears that we have a contemporary example of this in the PS22 Chorus, a group of fifth graders from NYC public schools. I found them through an amazing version of “The Eye of the Tiger” and was immediately moved by the passion of each and every kid. They obviously love music, their teacher, and are a wonderful example of loving life. I literally cried tears of joy and kept watching and watching into the wee hours of the night. These kids remind me why they deserve our best and why we shouldn’t neglect supporting music and art programs in our schools. I hope you enjoy the clips as much as I did late last night.

PS22 Chorus - "The Eye Of The Tiger" (Survivor Cover)

PS22 Chorus - "Viva La Vida" (Coldplay Cover)

PS22 Chorus - "Joga" (Bjork Cover)

A Night Of Bromance

2009-04-13T16:50:00.002-06:00

Last year I linked to an article by NPR music blogger Carrie Brownstein dealing with all the bromance she witnessed at a Fleet Foxes show. She defined concert bromance as small groups of men high-fiving during songs, raising glasses at the band in a show of brotherly love, and shouting "I love you!" toward the stage. Reader comments mentioned The Hold Steady as one of the great bromance bands of all-time. Last Saturday I felt the bromance for myself at The Urban Lounge, as The Hold Steady played an amazing set to a sold out club. I dare say the male-female ratio bordered on 4:1, with packed conditions and plenty of social lubricant providing ideal bromance conditions. I haven't seen so many men reach for the stage since I saw Morrissey a few years back. One drunk fellow jumped on stage and tried to give the keyboard player a kiss. Anyways, even without the bromance, it was an amazing show musically. The Hold Steady are one of the best rock band going today and certainly one of the best live shows to behold.

Here are two related clips. The first is a slightly humorous bit from the Letterman show on how "normal" Hold Steady frontman, Craig Finn, appears. The other is concert clip of one of my favorite songs, "Stuck Between Stations."

Craig Finn on Letterman

The Hold Steady - "Stuck Between Stations" (live)

Opening Day

2009-04-06T09:36:00.004-06:00

Today is opening day for baseball. I take work off every year to watch opening day games, grill sausages, and celebrate the beginning of spring. It is easily one of my favorite days of the year. I won't bore with some sanctimonious essay concerning the greatness of the game or how the game is woven into the fabric of America. Instead, I just hope the Padres can win a few games and I hope my fantasy baseball team is respectable. If anyone wants to stop by for a polish sausage, just drop in and catch a few innings.

"Field of Dreams"

If Darth Vader can't convince of baseball's magic, try the final scene of "The Natural".

Roy Hobbs' Magical Homerun

I Love Power Pop

2009-01-27T23:06:00.006-07:00

In high school, one of my favorite artists was Matthew Sweet, who became a 120 Minutes staple with his breakthrough album Girlfriend. While there was certainly a dark side to this divorce-inspired masterpiece, I fell in love with its combination of wailing guitars, harmonious back-up vocals, and song structures that contained more chorus than verse. I later learned that this style of music had a genre all its own-- Power Pop. After seeing Matthew Sweet in concert, I learned that his touring band consisted of eccentrc, but ultimately the coolest guy in the room, drummer Ric Menck, and guitarist Paul Chastain, also had their own Power Pop band, Velvet Crush. As I devoured their back catalog, including an amazing Ric Menck solo album, I found a few interviews of the band that cited their main influences as Smile-era Beach Boys, Paul McCartney’s Beatles output, and hipster favorite from the seventies, Big Star, which became another band to explore. I finally knew why the the Replacements had a song called "Alex Chilton," Big Star's main singer-songwriter.

By 1997, I was a Power Pop junkie and I was looking for a new fix, which led me to purchase the Rhino compilation, Poptopia: Power Pop Classics From the 90s, an album chuck full of obscure bands that worshiped at the alter of Brian Wilson. I tracked down more albums from bands like the Greenberry Woods, Gigolo Aunts, and the Greys. However, the best discovery out of this compilation was the Canadian band, Zumpano. I devoured their two albums and included their tracks on most of my mix tapes from the late 90s. When I read that Carl Newman of Zumpano was forming a Canadian Supergroup, I was excited, just hoping they could achieve the same sound as Newman’s previous band. The New Pornographers released Mass Romantic in 2000 and became critical darlings on the strength of Carl Newman’s sugary song-writing, Neko Case’s vocals, and Destroyer’s Dan Bejar being Dan Bejar. Projects like these tend to be one and done, so I was pleasantly surprised when they released a follow-up. Pretty soon, the New Pornographers became more popular than the bands of the core members.

Why do I bring this up? While the New Pornographers are on hiatus, they all like to release their own projects, leading to my favorite release of the young 2009, Get Guilty, released under the A.C. Newman moniker, although we all know it’s Carl. While Get Guilty is not as immediately accessable as some of the New Pornographers pure-cane sugar pop, it is a nuanced album that rewards repeated listens. Newman is clearly a skilled song-writer and doesn’t need to hit the listener over the head with his hooks, instead he seduces us over the course of multiple listens. I encourage you to check it out, as well as all the New Pornographers albums. I’ll even make you a mixed CD with some Zumpano if you want.

A.C. Newman - "Like A Hitman, Like A Dancer"

Zumpano - "I Dig You"

(Please note Carl Newman's crazy Zumpano hair)

Matthew Sweet - "I've Been Waiting"

(I always loved Matthew Sweet's anime videos)

Happy MLK Jr. Day, Happy Inauguration

2009-01-19T14:22:00.006-07:00

I always enjoy Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Not only is it a day off school, the media do a wonderful job with tributes, not just to the man, but to his message. This year, the inauguration of Barack Obama adds greater significance to the words and ideas of Dr. King. I've been very impressed with the many different tributes to the historical nature of the day. The outgoing administration has even been impressed with the history they are witnessing. In a recent interview, Dick Cheney remarked:

“I have the same feeling that I think many Americans have, that it's really remarkable that -- what we're going to do here in a few days is swear in the first African American president of the United States. When I came to town in 1968, we'd had the Martin Luther King assassination, Bobby Kennedy assassination, riots in the cities, major, major disturbances, a lot of it racially motivated around the country.

"And in fact, things have changed so dramatically that we're now about to swear in Barack Obama as president of the United States. That's really a remarkable story and I think a record of tremendous success and progress for the United States."

Ultimately, Dr. King wanted the United States to live up to the rhetoric that we are so quick to dispense. Living up to our words has been a struggle, but it has been an ennobling struggle. I often feel fortunate I teach American history and am able to study our progress as a nation. Some of our history is certainly depressing and shameful, but it is outweighed by the goodness of our spirit and our decency as a people. Thomas Jefferson, the great optimist of our founding generation, always believed the dreams of the future would improve upon the history of our past. I share this optimism and hope that these two days can help provide the idealism and inspiration to deal with our current national struggles.

Now what do I have to share? I watched the “We Are One: The Obama Inaugural Celebration” last night and thought it was great. It is tough to have a better backdrop for an event, the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall. The event sprinkled inspirational and historical words from Denzel Washington, Samuel Jackson, Steve Carrell, Jack Black and others, inbetween music from Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, John Mellencamp, Shakira, and U2. You can watch the entire event online at the HBO website. Here is U2's two song set, the MLK tribute song “Pride (In the name of love), and the “City of Blinding Lights”. It's an amazing setting for their performance. I love Bono’s transition between songs.

U2- "Pride (In the name of love)" & "City of Blinding Lights"

My Top 10 Albums of 2008

2009-01-11T23:06:00.007-07:00

Well, here it is, my favorite albums of 2008. It was tough to narrow it down, but I think I made the right calls. I love lists and would love to hear what you think are this past year's best albums. If you want to review more lists, I recommend the lists at Metacritic, Popmatters, Pitchfork, The AV Club, Magnet, and Paste. Now, just missing the cut were great albums from Devotchka, The Stills, The Dears, The Hold Steady, Ra Ra Riot, The Dodos, Mountain Goats, Bob Mould, Charlatans UK, M83, She & Him, Ben Folds, and British Sea Power. All are worth your time to find and listen.

10. Elbow - Seldom Seen Kid

Many critics thought Elbow’s new album was the long awaited fulfillment of their potential. The even won the prestigious Mercury Prize over in the UK. I think that assessment insults the quality work of their other albums. I suppose I should just be happy that the band finally received their props form the music press. If you like big epic music out of Manchester, you should like Elbow just fine.

Elbow - "One Day Like This"

9. The Helio Sequence - Keep Your Eyes Ahead

I need to thank a music-lovin’ expectant father in California for giving me the tip on the Helio Sequence. This album was largely ignored by most media outlets, which is unfortunate. This is a major step forward that involves the band incorporated many different styles and influences, creating a cohesive, well-produced album that benefits from repeated listens, especially if you’re a fan of early 90s dream pop or a lover of swirling guitars.

The Helio Sequence - "Keep Your Eyes Ahead"

8. The Bowerbirds - Hymns For A Dark Horse

This album was technically self-released in 2007, but received a more proper release with two extra tracks in 2008, and by my authority, makes it eligible for my list. The Bowerbirds spent part of 2008 touring with Bon Iver, which was how I discovered them. They seem to know all my musical weaknesses...accordion, group singing, weepy violin. Fans of Beirut, Devotchka, or Bon Iver will love this album from these North Carolinian folkies.

The Bowerbirds - "In Our Talons"

7. Coldplay - Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends

Music critics have a tough time loving a band that wears old timey military uniforms and aspire to be like Bono. As a music geek, I know I’m breaking the code by loving this band. However, I stopped being cool the minute I started teaching high school, if not sooner. With Viva La Vida, Coldplay made the leap this year, at least for me. “Viva La Vida” and “Lovers In Japan” are now pantheon songs. I just hope they keep Brian Eno around for the next album.

6. Vampire Weekend - Vampire Weekend

I am required by law to inform you that Vampire Weekend went to Columbia University and uses a lot of world music in their debut masterpiece. With that out of the way, this impressive debut album is a lot of fun as it channels Paul Simon’s classic Graceland. What rule says indie music must be dark, moody, and serious? They don’t care about “Oxford Commas” and the music world is a better place as a result.

Vampire Weekend - "Oxford Comma"

5. The Walkmen - You & Me

I’ll be honest. I was never a fan of The Walkman. I have friends that love Bows + Arrows, but I wasn’t a real fan. It seemed too noisy for my tastes. I’m not sure what’s changed, but You & Me is an amazing collection of noisy beautiful songs, including one of this year’s best, “The New Year.”

4. Fleet Foxes - Fleet Foxes

Beards were the hot indie accessory this year. And no band wore the beards better than the Foxes. Like a choir of angels, the vocal harmonies off their debut album take the listener to another place and time, which is one of the main reasons I listen to music. I’m looking forward to see how they follow up this amazing debut.

Fleet Foxes - "He Doesn't Know Why"

3. Sigur Rós - Me suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust

I’ll admit it. I don’t think I could dislike anything produced by Iceland’s favorite sons, Sigur Rós. I got on board back in 2000 with Agaetis Byrjun when certain media sites called them the first vital band of the century. Their songs usually lasted 7-10 minutes and featured the strange drone of bowed guitar as the vocalist sang in his own language dubbed “hopelandic.” Over their next three albums, Sigur Rós have continued their musical explorations to this years release, which sounds like a pop album compared with previous releases. From “Gobbledigook”, “Við Spilum Endalaust”, and “Festival”, the band is clearly having a good time taking the listener on a musical ride that represents the exuberance of life.

Sigur Ros - "Festival"

2. TV On The Radio - Dear Science

“Staring At The Sun” has always been my favorite song by TV On The Radio, but it has always been difficult for me to truly love all their other sonic experiments. Their albums were always good, but not great, until Dear Science. Finally, TVOTR have made the cohesive, emotional statement I always felt they could. Unlike previous albums, there are no real stand-out tracks, but there are also no bad tracks. This album benefits from repeated listens, as the songs create an electric atmosphere that engage both mind and soul. As Pitchfork’s review of Dear Science so eloquently states, “this is shit-hot thrilling music.” I couldn’t agree more.

TV On The Radio - "The Golden Age"

1. Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago

I don’t know how accurate the story is, but interviews and media portray Justin Vernon fleeing to the Wisconsin woods for the winter a broken man, and triumphantly emerging in the spring with this monument to resilience and humanity. Bon Iver is bastardized French for “good winter.” Vernon’s distinctive falsetto style reminds the listener of TV on the Radio meets Iron & Wine, and sets the perfect tone for the love, heartbreak, and ultimately resolution that the songs emote. This album was a distinctive part of my soundtrack in 2008 and will take its place as one of my all-time favorites.

Bon Iver - "The Wolves (Acts I & II)"

My Top 10 Songs of 2008

2009-01-01T23:52:00.004-07:00

I've been battling a wicked head cold and a computer virus, but am finally following through with my year-end posts on my favorite music. Thank you for your patience. I hope that you would share your favorites. There is always something I miss. For example, as I was enjoying this year's fine release by the Dears, I went back and found one of their old albums that I didn't buy back in the day. The old album was so brilliant I feel stupid for not knowing about it sooner. This older album produced one of my favorite songs this year, but I am a few years late.

So, to start off my list, I'll share with you this old Dears song from 2004, "Lost In The Plot."

The Dears - "Lost In The Plot"

10. “Waving Flags” - British Sea Power

Released at the beginning of the year, British Sea Power seemed overlooked by year-end lists. I, however, thought Do You Like Rock Music? was a solid release by a band that refuses to put out a bad album. This track is said to be a tribute to Polish plumbers, but I can’t quite hear it. All I can hear is a raging guitar anthem.

British Sea Power - "Waving Flags" (live)

9. “M79" - Vampire Weekend

In the future, all great rock bands will feature string quartets. While this is probably false, Vampire Weekend makes you thinks it might be possible. Sounding like they’re from Ivy League, many people have dismissed the band for sounding pretentious as they try to incorporate world music. I happen to love the quirky joy contained in each song. As for “M79", I love how the song changes at the 2:34 mark.

Vampire Weekend - "M79" (live)

8. “Two Halves” - My Morning Jacket

I admit that I didn’t like Evil Urges when it was initially released. But I trust Jim James. I believe in the band, and while there are songs on the album that I still don’t connect with, there are certainly more than enough triumphs to compensate for the experimental excesses. “Two Halves” seems to harken back to the 50s and the simple song structures of early rock n’ roll.

Unfortunately, I couldn't find a great clip of the song. I put it in the player to the side, along with some more of my favorites from the past year. Instead, here is a clip of the beautiful, yet somewhat distrubing, acoustic number "Librarian".

My Morning Jacket - "Librarian" (live)

7. “Gobbledigook” - Sigur Rós

Slowly but surely, Sigur Rós is an evolving band. From the drone of the alien whale songs of their first couple albums to the experiments with horns and other notions of pop, they are refusing to rest on any traditional sound. Their most recent album continues the trend. Lead track “Gobbledigook” has a driving rhythm, hand claps, lots of “la la la las”, and a sense of pop that was hinted in Takk’s “Hoppípolla.”

Sigur Rós - "Gobbledigook" (live)

6. “My Family Tree” - TV On The Radio

Dear Science is the best TV On The Radio album yet. While all their albums have been experimental and noisy, they have occasionally retreated into the sublime. This track is the best example of the simple beauty they can achieve. There are other wonderful examples of greatness from this album, but this is certainly my favorite.

TV On The Radio - "Family Tree"

5. “Murder In The City” - The Avett Brothers

The Avett Brothers are my current favorite band. While 2008 was mainly a year to continue their frantic touring schedule, they did manage to release an EP of mainly slower acoustic gems. Already a concert favorite, this one deals with importance of family as the narrator thinks of his life in the face of a hypothetical murder while in the city. You’ll want to call home and tell your parents you love them after listening.

The Avett Brothers - "Murder In The City"

4. “Viva La Vida” - Coldplay

I liked this one the minute I illegally downloaded it. Church bells, timpani drums, the looped synth strings, and sufficiently ambiguous lyrics make this song a favorite. Even if they ripped off the lyrical melody from Joe Satriani, it’s still an amazing pop song.

Coldplay - "Viva La Vida"

3. “Re: Stacks” - Bon Iver

This song is a fitting end to Bon Iver’s amazing album, For Emma, Forever Ago, providing the cathartic release at the end of albums emotional journey. This song was also used perfectly for the touching scene at the end of the season finale of House. So sad.

Bon Iver - "Re: Stacks" (live)

2. “In The New Year” - The Walkmen

Wow. This song is what rock music is all about...passsion, hope, raw emotion. The ascending organ line drives the chorus of this melancholy, but ultimately optimistic number. This one only improves the louder you play it. I recommend checking out this live version here.

The Walkmen - "In The New Year"

1. “Kim & Jessie” - M83

This song seems inspired by the 80s, and specifically John Hughes cinema. It channels everything great about synth-based 80s music and certainly sets the right mood for the soundtrack of my life. Yes, my life is a John Hughes film. I teach high school.

M83 - "Kim & Jessie"

My Top 5 Shows of 2008

2008-12-28T23:47:00.002-07:00

All things considered. I thought that 2008 was fairly lean when it came to the number of good shows that passed through the Salt Lake area. However, I thought that of the few I saw, they were of very high quality. I thought I’d share my top five shows, with my favorite songs and albums coming later this week. By the way, 2009 is already looking good with DeVotchka and The Hold Steady already announcing SLC dates in the new year. Just missing the 2008 list were Elbow, The Swell Season, The Police (I’m so sorry Sting.), and Ben Folds.

5. Fleet Foxes - 10/16/08 In The Venue

I’ve already promoted the Fleet Foxes extensively on this site, but there is a reason they were one of the most hyped new bands of the year. Their debut album has topped numerous year end lists with comparisons to other great bearded Americana bands like My Morning Jacket, Band of Horses, and Crosby, Stills, & Nash. Seeing a band with only one album usually simplifies the set list, they’ll play everything they know. Unlike bands with extensive discographies, they are not promoting the new stuff and ignoring old favorites. New bands will be judged primarily on how well they execute what they know. With that said, Fleet Foxes can execute everything their album promises, including the lush, beautiful harmonies. The show was short, but executed to perfection.

Fleet Foxes - "Blue Ridge Mountains"

4. Weezer - 10/7/08 The E Center

Unlike the Foxes, Weezer has an extensive catalog that makes their concert experience set list driven. I was worried that too much of the show would be filled with recent album exploits, leaving old fan favorites from the Blue Album and Pinkerton on the cutting room floor. I had never seen Weezer, but was optimistic that the moody Rivers Cuomo would give us what we wanted. Having scored a free ticket from a good friend and radio contest winner, my expectations didn’t have to meet the steep ticket price. From “My Name is Jonas” to “Suzanne” to “Buddy Holly”, the setlist was varied and loaded with fan favorites. Nice job Rivers.

Weezer - "Suzanne" (with a cappella intro)

3. Coldplay - 11/22/08 EnergySolutions Arena

Many critics like to note that Coldplay wants to be U2, not that there is anything wrong with it. I tend to enjoy a band that swings for the fences and goes for that epic feel. Chris Martin and company are rightly criticized for the tendency to go for the grandiose and spectacular, but sometimes coming up short and settling with the cliche. Viva La Vida benefitted from tighter production and the magic of Brian Eno bringing out their best. With a solid album to tour with and the ability to cherry pick the best of their first three albums, Coldplay should be able to come up with a great arena show. The set list was tight, they varied their playing location, had plenty of lighting tricks, numerous screens, and they brought out the confetti for concert highlight “Lovers In Japan.” Coldplay planned an ambitious show worthy of U2 and certainly lived up to their own expectations.

Coldplay - "Lovers In Japan"

2. Sigur Rós - 09/28/08 The Great Saltair

Listening to these Icelandic lads, you usually don’t think live music. Sigur Rós sounds like a studio band and I don’t think anyone would hold that against them. However, everything they do on their albums they can pull off in the live setting. They tour relentlessly and have even released a concert film set in their gorgeous homeland. I expected a great show and was not disappointed. I went to this one by myself, yet felt connected to everyone in the Great Saltair. You see, no one just goes out and sees a Sigur Rós show by accident. Everyone there wants to experience what they feel when they listen to their albums late at night and are just amazed that the men on the stage are producing the sounds they hear. Personally, I was mesmerized by the drummer. And the confetti released during the euphoric “Gobbledigook.”

Sigur Rós - "Við Spilum Endalaust"

1. The Avett Brothers - 08/20/08 & 08/22/08 The Depot (SLC), The Knitting Factory (Boise)

The Avett Brothers have clearly been my favorite band over the last two years, with their live performances being the primary reason for my passion. If you had a time machine and picked up Civil War era musicians in their late twenties, great facial hair and all, made a stop in the 1930s for some old-timey suits, exposed them to the punk rock of the late seventies, then sequestered them with beautiful, yet somewhat unattainable women and then see what they would produce, then you would have the Avett Brothers. The themes of their songs are fairly universal...love, family, death, loss, yet they never sound cliche. They feel every note and mean every lyric they deliver. They don’t use any set lists, but “call ‘em as they see ‘em.” Every show is different and each one is amazing. After witnessing their SLC show, we decided to drive up to Boise for another dose. I talk of the Avetts with a missionary like zeal, and hope that anyone who has a chance to see them, will make every effort to witness their life-affirming romps.

The Avett Brothers - "Left On Laura, Left On Lisa"

Favorite Sounds of the Season

2008-12-22T13:14:00.002-07:00

I know many people have different stands on their seasonal holiday music. Some have rules when Christmas music can be played according to the calendar. Others have preference on the secular versus the holy. While others don't mind the many different songs, but make sure it is performed by an acceptable artist. There seems to be a Christmas album for everyone. My favorites include the Phil Spector Christmas album, The Rat Pack Christmas, and Sufjan Stevens' Songs for Christmas.

While those albums are great from start to finish, there are few singular examples of songs that put me in the Christmas mood. From the first few bars of the "Fairytale of New York" to the odd pairing of Bing and Bowie, or even Bono reminding me at the 1:30 mark that "tonight, thank God it's them instead of yooouuuu," these songs are a few of my favorites and an important part of my holiday heavy rotation. Please enjoy and Merry Christmas to everyone.

The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl - "Fairytale Of New York"

Bing Crosby and David Bowie - "Little Drummer Boy/Peace On Earth"

Band Aid - "Do They Know It's Christmas"

Christmas memories from my youth...

2008-12-18T21:32:00.002-07:00

This will be short, but I have much I need to update. I will have my top 10 albums and tracks of 2008 to post shortly. But in the meantime, I picked up the old Muppet special, "Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas" on DVD, a childhood favorite of mine. My family taped the special off TV with our brand new VCR and I watched it over and over and over. Seeing it again, I think it holds up rather nicely and has a neat little Christmas message. However, it was the songs and the cute muppets that hooked my six year old self. I'd love to see the Avett Brothers do a version of the following song.

"Brothers" - The Emmet Otter Jug Band

Election Picks

2008-11-02T13:58:00.005-07:00

As most of my readers know, I teach American history to a wonderful group of students. In the spirit of the election, my classes are filling out electoral college maps for our Electoral Pick'em Challenge, with the winner receiving a major prize. I've recommended a few sites to my students to help them gain insight in each state contest, with fivethirtyeight.com and 270towin.com being my favorites. I've kept the Soffe Report a pretty political free zone, mainly because I find internet political discussions generate far more heat than light, but I thought I'd at least share my picks. I wish everyone a wonderful election day and if you are in my neighborhood and want to watch election coverage Tuesday night, feel free to stop by. I've included my electoral map prediction below, but really, who knows?

<p><strong>><a href='http://projects.washingtonpost.com/2008/pick-your-president/'>2008 Election Contest: Pick Your President</a></strong> - Predict the winner of the 2008 presidential election.</p>

A Sneak Preview of Tonight...

2008-10-29T16:37:00.002-06:00

I know that most of my readers are usually sound asleep before 10:30 most nights and often miss late night television. I'm here to the rescue. SNL offered a sneak peak of tonights Obama half hour campaign message. Please enjoy.

Recent Concerts

2008-09-29T16:44:00.002-06:00

Aside from festivals, summertime usually isn't a great time for concerts. However, things usually pick up in the fall. Within the last two weeks I attended TV On The Radio at In The Venue and Sigur Ros at Saltair. TOTR have a new album out that is blowing away music critics. I haven't purchased the album yet, but can attest to the ferocity of the new songs live. It seems the band has flown under the radar, despite three wonderful albums. Here is the band performing on the fire escape at the Late Show with David Letterman.

TV On The Radio - "Dancing Choose" (live on Letterman)

I've posted on Sigur Ros previously and have not hid my love and affection of the new album. Their SLC set was concise, diverse, and inspiring. I was most excited to see the new songs live and was impressed with the energy they brought to their show. Big kudos to the drummer who was a highlight for me. Of course, the best part of the show was the raining confetti during "Gobbledigook". I don't know why other bands aren't investing in confetti and deploying it during key emotional music moments. Here is a live performance of Sigur Ros with fellow Icelander Bjork. Unfortunately, this outdoor clip doesn't show the beauty of confetti. For a better view of the confetti glory check out my previous Sigur Ros post.

Sigur Ros - Gobbledigook (Live With Bjork at Naturra)

I've been a broken record on Fleet Foxes, but they're coming back to SLC October 16 to In The Venue. I haven't seen them live, but am planning to be there. You're all welcome to join me for a night of harmonies and beards. Instead of posting another video link to the Foxes, I'm posting a cover of the Fleet Foxes by two Swedish kids in the woods (actually the band First Aid Kit). Enjoy.

First Aid Kit - Tiger Mountain Peasant Song (Fleet Foxes Cover)

I've been a little busy...

2008-09-25T15:29:00.009-06:00

I must apologize for my silence. Some have chastised me for my long silence and I regret that life pushed my communication with you aside. I suppose this is why we lose touch with people. Daily rigor leads to routines that exclude the people that are not part of our day-to-day interactions. I promise that I'll try to do better.

I have a few things that I'll write about later, but I thought I'd try to account for my life the past month or so.

1) The Avett Brothers concert in SLC turned into a second concert two nights later in Boise. With the school year just beginning, this wasn't an ideal time to get behind on my sleep. I promise a detailed posting of why I think the Avett Brothers are one of the best musical acts performing today.

2) School started on August 19. This fact alone means an end to my summer life style. My sleep patterns change drastically and my focus becomes the historical knowledge of 16-17 year old students. I rarely mention my job, just because it's really not kosher to talk about work. I'll make an exception here. Teaching has been very difficult this year due to a schedule change from trimesters to semesters. The rhythms of the school day are different and I often feel less effective in my daily goals. I knew this would be a challenging year, but I didn't realize how challenging it would be. However, the students are wonderful. I have never had a problem with the teenagers and think this year's crop will be great. They have always been the best part of my job.

3) While European Soccer really doesn't matter to most Americans, the English Premier League began their season with my Chelsea Blues poised to make a strong run at the Championship. I visit soccernet.com daily to read the latest news, public feuds, and transfer rumors. Luckily for me, the Fox Soccer Channel broadcasts several live games every week to help cultivate my fanhood. And yes, I am in a Fantasy English Premier League with friends so don't knock it because you have no idea how compelling it is. Go Blues!

4) On September 10th I was interviewed by two different radio stations concerning 9/11 and how history teachers are dealing with the subject. I was a little apprehensive about doing it because I really don't enjoy speaking in front of groups. Sure, I teach 150 kids every day, but somehow its different. One interview was a taped segment by Utah Public Radio that would air the morning of 9/11 and included a teacher from Salt Lake as well. It felt awkward and was comforted that few people I know would actually hear it. The second was a live interview on the Cache Valley juggernaut 610 KVNU. The host of the program is a former student, and was part of my very first class of kids and experienced 9/11 in my classroom. The interview was much more natural and seemed fairly well received by those that heard it. It was also an interesting reminder of how far I've progressed as a teacher from that harrowing day.

5) I've never really thought of myself as a political junkie until I realized that I digested far more coverage of both the Democratic and Republican conventions than the average American. I know where I stand politically and have definite viewpoints, but I rarely discuss them with people other than a close inner circle of friends. It's hard when people today are arguing with different facts and the media seems to be apathetic to call people out on distortions, exaggerations and flat out lies. Most discussions turn into irrational accusations and most people continue to believe the way they do. Anyways, over the last month I've digested article after article and have followed the daily itinerary of the candidates. In many ways, it is the ultimate reality show competition. I just hope everything turns out ok.

6) The number one thing I do with this blog is share the music I like. I read several music magazines, visit a few music blogs and read reviews, just looking for that something special. Despite my silence, there is some great new discoveries that I'll be sharing with you over the next few days. (Bowerbirds, The Stills, The Charlatans UK, Okkervil River, TV On The Radio, Sigur Ros, The Baseball Project, The Smoking Popes, Josh Rouse, Mitch Hedberg, and possibly a few others.)

7) For now, I'll go with an old favorite, Stephen Colbert and his wonderful Report. Last Sunday, Stephen received some redemption at the Emmy's when the Colbert Report won the award for Best Writing, although he lost the coveted performance Emmy to Don Rickles. He has previously lost that catergory to Tony Bennett and Barry Manilow. Anyways, a few years ago, Stephen revealed that he was involved with an 80s new-wave band that channeled his frustrations with not being with his love, Charlene. Well, its two years later and now YOU can play that song on the new ROCK BAND 2. Here are clips for the original video and the ROCK BAND version. It's actually quite a catchy song that you'll be singing all day.

Charlene (I'm Right Behind You)

Charlene (I'm Right Behind You) Rock Band Version

I really liked LeRoi...

2008-08-20T00:07:00.002-06:00

Dave Matthews Band saxophonist LeRoi Moore died yesterday of complications from injuries sustained in an ATV accident. When I read the headline, I was saddened. To be honest, I haven't listened to Dave regularly since about 1997, even though I was a fan and saw them in concert at least 3 times that I can recall. In my mind, I outgrew them as I tired of the jam band ethos and became more infatuated with bands less defined by the average college crowd. Sure you could put "Crash Into Me" on a mixed CD and get some tail, but you'd lose your soul in the process. Today, I'm sure I dismissed them unfairly. I suppose most indie kids are guilty of moving on when a band becomes popular. But as an amateur saxophonist, I always appreciated the work that Moore did in the band. I feel bad for the true fans of the band that stuck with DMB since the beginning. This loss must really sting. As for me, I'll probably go back and explore some of the songs I haven't heard since I was young and stupid. But I will leave you with a video of my favorite DMB song, "41".

The Dave Matthews Band - "41"

The Avetts are coming!

2008-08-17T21:17:00.004-06:00

Over the past year, the Avett Brothers have been my favorite band. While most of my readership is sick of hearing of me gush about this band (at least everyone except Miss Led), I have to spread the gospel of the Avetts. They will be playing this Wednesday (8/20) at the Depot and I want everyone I know there. Once you bask in their glorious live show, you too will become converted and will try to share the Avetts with everyone you know. Trust me. I hope to see all of you there. Please let me know if you have questions or if I can assist you with a ride.

Here are a couple of live clips of the Avetts...just to prime the pump.

The Avett Brothers - "Distraction #74" (live)

The Avett Brothers - "Please Pardon Yourself" (live)

Colbert & Canton

2008-08-14T10:36:00.004-06:00

I wished I lived in a town called Canton. That's not a knock on Logan, my hometown and the place I love. But if I lived in a town called Canton, I would have a chance of being mocked by Stephen Colbert, host of my favorite right-wing, blow hard talk show. It started with a comment made by Colbert as he compared John McCain's campaign schedule to the rock star coverage of Barack Obama in the Middle East and Europe. He called Canton, Ohio the "good" Canton, not like the one in Georgia. Well, over the last 3 weeks, Colbert has been apologizing and insulting more Canton's in Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. CNN has and other local media outlets have done "outraged Canton resident" stories, which has just made Colbert more determined to keep going. Even Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius responded with the following statement,

My Dearest Stephen:

Canton, Kansas is a town of about 800, located in McPherson County. Since you just missed the McPherson County Fair, where we surely could have gotten you bucked off something, and the yearly demolition derby is over, we'd like to invite you to visit the pioneer 1883 jail on Allen Street in Canton. Standard procedure is to view by appointment only, but in your case, the Mayor has assured me, we can get you an overnight booking anytime you are available. Consider yourself to have a standing appointment. We hope to hear you're coming for a visit. Also, it's funny you avoided picking on Canton, Ohio (population 80,000) and instead went after Canton, Georgia (population 7,000) and then decided to bully the quaint town of Canton, Kansas, picking on its 800 citizens. Next, you'll surely be headed for Canton, Texas, (population 3,000) which is reportedly home of the world's largest flea market.
I bet they can't wait!

With warm Kansas wishes,
Governor Kathleen Sebelius

I'm not sure how long Catons will be insulted, but it's been my favorite running segment this past month and makes me wish I lived in a Canton. I've collected the clips for those who missed it. I hope you laugh.

The Colbert Report - July 30

The Colbert Report - August 5

The Colbert Report - August 12

The Ultimate Museum Show...

2008-08-07T16:32:00.002-06:00

Normally, live music in museums is usually reserved for string quartets or well-behaved jazz combos. However, the more you think about it, Sigur Ros, the Icelandic group known for its incomprehensible vocals that may or may not be actual lyrics, may be the ultimate museum band. They certainly layed claim to the title through a performance at NYC's Museum of Modern Art. Stereogum posted a 46 minute sample of the concert filmed by Current TV. If you have 46 minutes to spare, it is certainly worth a look. Seeing Sigur Ros a few years ago is still one of my favorite shows and hopefully this short set will show why. For viewers with shorter attention spans, I would recommend starting around the 34:00 for the last two songs, "hoppipolla" and "gobbledigook".

Fleet Foxes

2008-08-05T19:13:00.002-06:00

All right. After watching the Fleet Foxes on Letterman last night I have three points....

1) Why do indie bands have to use unreliable vans that always break down in Denver. I should have witnessed Fleet Foxes in all their glory at Kilby Court last month, but the show was cancelled because of aforementioned transportation issues. While the Foxes made a nice announcement on their website apologizing, they told fans to just catch them when they open up for Wilco at Red Butte Gardens in August. Problem. That show has been sold out for some time and I don’t have tickets. I soured on the Red Butte after last summers Ryan Adams fiasco, but would give the venue another chance if I could see the Foxes. If anyone has a spare ticket, please let me know.

2) Carrie Brownstein, guitarist for Sleater-Kinney, writes an insightful blog for NPR. In one of her recent columns, she writes about attending a Fleet Foxes show and overwhelmed by the level of “bromance” in the room. She describes bromance as a “phenomenon where mostly straight men show up to shows in small packs, high-fiving during songs, raising glasses at the band in a show of brotherly love, and shouting "I love you!" toward the stage.” After reading her article, I began to think about my many concerts and back to when I either felt or witnessed bromance. The most notable might be My Morning Jacket, but have had similar experiences at the Samples, Devotchka, and even a little at the Avett Brothers. Comments on Brownstein’s blog tended focus on the Hold Steady, Built to Spill, Wilco, and Guided By Voices (which I suspect may be the greatest bromance bands of all-time.) Have you experienced or witnessed bromance in action? Are there concerts that have a more female orientation? Fill free to share in the comments.

3. Finally, if you missed Letterman last night, here is their performance. Dave’s reference to dogs stems from a series of dog long jumping that was earlier in the show. I hope you enjoy it. I like it when everything kicks in at 1:46 of the clip...good stuff.

Fleet Foxes - “Blue Ridge Mountains” (live on Letterman)

Great Artists Make Great YouTube Clips

2008-08-04T18:45:00.005-06:00

Earlier this year, I put Bon Iver on the short-list for top albums of 2008, and that was back in February. It's now August, and I still believe that "For Emma, Forever Ago" is one of the top releases of the year. While on his tour, he's been ending shows with a cover of Nashville singer-songwriter Sarah Siskind's "Lovin's For Fools", backed by his touring mates, The Bowerbirds. Thank goodness for YouTube and good quality recordings, because there are numerous versions of the song to view, along with many other great tracks from the tour. I've been playing this clip non-stop the past few days and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. It certainly is an amazing way to end a concert. I've also included Sarah Siskind's original version and a track from Bon Iver's Daytrotter session in the top music player to the side. Enjoy.

Bon Iver & Bowerbirds "Lovin's for Fools"

BONUS IVER

Pitchfork.tv has a five song set that is fantastic...you can go here to see it all.

Here's a sample...
Bon Iver "Lump Sum"

"All Is Well"

2008-07-30T14:09:00.004-06:00

A few weeks back, I came across Doveman’s interpretation of the Footloose Soundtrack. As I read more about the Brooklyn based project, I learned of Sam Amidon, a collaborator and part of a collective of talented musicians that help each other out in their various musical projects. Sam Amidon is known for his new versions of public domain folk songs and offering a voice that reminds us of Nick Drake, without ever sounding like an imitation. The folk songs Amidon gives a modern spin are traditional Appalachian standards, many surviving through the 1930s American Folkways project headed by Alan Lomax. Ironically, Amidon retreated to Iceland to record with Bedroom Community producer/musician Valgeir Sigurdsson. Together, they make all the right production decisions that give a modern twist to these old songs, that never seems to betray the source material.

As I listened to “All is Well”, the title track from this album, there was something strangely familiar. Latter-Day Saint readers may recognize the title refrain as part of the beloved Mormon hymn, “Come, Come, Ye Saints”. As I googled Sam Amidon and Mormon, I discovered an interview with Amidon where he is asked about this connection, one that he was unaware of until he got to Iceland. He says, “I learned about the Mormon version of the song in Iceland from somebody I know there who used to be a missionary in Iceland, and the church he was in sang it in Icelandic! There was an Icelandic Mormon ‘All Is Well’! Wow!” He also discussed the theme of this song being a common theme of the album, confronting death with joy.

Anyways, I was blown away by the whole album and highly recommend it. I’ve posted “All Is Well” in the sidebar along with a few songs I’ve been impressed with recently. Also, please enjoy the video for “Saro”, another highlight of the album.

Samamidon - "Saro"

History Conferences and Rock N Roll

2008-07-28T23:45:00.003-06:00

Last week was my annual trek to SLC for the American History Institutes conference, held at Murray High, home of David Archuleta, (they even have a big picture of him on the side of the school). This five day conference features a different historian every day, each giving three, two hour lectures. However, when I tell people about the conference, their reaction is usually less than enthusiastic. I try to explain what a great week it is, but usually with little success. During the last day of the conference, my mind found a useful analogy to my five day ordeal. My history conference is similar to a modern day music festival.

Both events have passionate participants, with some acting very annoying. While we all hate the concert attendees that sing every song as loud as they can and are a little too into it. The conference equivalent must be the attendee that asks questions mainly to tell us that he is just as smart as the visiting professor. Some concert fans get star-struck and try to get backstage for autographs. Some conference attendees buy the visiting historian’s books and get personalized autographs during the breaks, some even try to get invited to dinner with the star historian. And just as all bands can’t headline a music festival, not all historians can headline the conference. Clearly, each historian I had witnessed, had a band equivalent. Now I just had to come up with the proper analogies for each professor.

Day 1: Our first day we were treated to a young sports historian from a local university. His lectures dealt with the Civil Rights Movement, the role of sports in American culture across race, class, and gender, and the uses of sports in helping us teach about all aspects of American history. Now, like some bands, I probably wouldn’t attend a lecture if it was only this professor, but he clearly was a valuable part of the docket. A solid, lower tier band would suit him...let’s say The Long Winters.

Day 2: The next day featured a Southern historian with an impressive resume. His lectures were amazing and clearly a highlight of the week. He opened up with a lecture on the development of African American culture during the colonial era, followed by a solid discussion of the social and economic impacts of the Civil War on the South. He closed with the transformation of the South in the 20th century. We asked for an encore, but the houselights went on and the canned music came from the speakers. This entertaining historian clearly needs to be represented by one of my favorite Southern bands....My Morning Jacket.

My Morning Jacket - "Bermuda Highway" (live)

Day 3: At the resident historian of the History Channel, our third presenter is no stranger to bright lights and celebrity. Primarily a 20th century historian, he presented some great information on “the vital center” of the 50s & 60s, the significance of the Baby Boomers on American politics and culture, and using the 60s to help explain current political trends, specifically using Bill Clinton and Newt Gingrich as case studies. This modern and highly entertaining academic needs a band as modern and entertaining...The Arcade Fire.

The Arcade Fire - "No Cars Go" (Live from Glastonbury)

Day 4: Honestly, a bit of a let down from the previous two days. The historian dealt with Native Americans in the colonial era, and relied extensively on PowerPoint slides. I suppose my problem with the presentations have more to do with my own historical interests, but I could also tell that my fellow participants had soured a bit on our presenter. What popular technologically savvy band has clearly lost my enthusiasm...Death Cab For Cutie.

Day 5: Our final day gave us the most renowned historian of the week., with over 20 published books, and a high profile fellowship chair at a major university. All week we’ve been waiting for him, and he didn’t disappoint. He looked like a rock star with his unkept hair and Chuck Taylor shoes. His voice was captivating as he discussed FDR’s legacy, the significance of the Gilded Age, and the life of Benjamin Franklin. Instead of the typical three sessions, he went five. So what legendary rocker, known for crowd pleasing long sets, could this historian be compared...Bruce Springsteen.

Bruce Springsteen - "Born To Run" (acoustic)

By the end of the week I was exhausted, but I don’t regret going or sitting through any of the presentations, just like a long music festival.

The Police & Elvis Costello

2008-07-20T19:59:00.002-06:00

I forgot how much I loved the Police until I saw them Saturday night at the USANA Amphitheatre. In the 1990s, I saw Sting in concert twice, primarily to hear classic Police songs, much the same way I go see Morrissey shows with the hopes he'll play some Smiths tunes. I loved "Fields Of Gold" as much as the next guy, but it was always the Police songs that made the shows for me. While I was on my mission in Uganada, I remember convincing my mother that she shouldn't waste the money on shipping me a Christmas package, but she should just buy me the newly release Police boxed set that had been released a few months earlier. (I'm still not sure how I knew that it had been released.) On my way home from Africa, I saw a two disc live concert of the Police in some Amsterdam airport music shop. I bought it, mistakenly believing it was one of those import titles I couldn't get easily in the states. At least I had something for the ride home from the airport.

As I got older, I became more accepting of the common indie rock perception of Sting, that he was kind of a wanker. He took himself too seriously. He used his songs and likeness to sell Jaguar automobiles. His solo music rocked less and less, to the point that only housewives were listening to the man. I won't even talk about his album of lute music. After seeing a reunited Police, I realize that Sting is still great, but he needs someone to tell him when he's "acting up." Stewart Copeland (percussion) and Andy Summers (guitar) never took Sting's crap, to the point of backstage brawls between Stewart and Sting. I suppose the three dominant personalities created the tension that led to the Police breaking up in 1985, at the height of their popularity. It was also this tension that led to their musical greatness. While Sting's songs were the hits, it was Stewart's signature drum work and Andy's epic guitar that made good songs great. I almost forgot how great the Police were until seeing them.

As far as the show goes, Elvis Costello opened the show and delivered a concise hour long set of his current album and a good number of classic Elvis tracks. Highlights included "Radio, Radio", "Pump It Up", "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, & Understanding", and Sting joining Elvis for a gorgeous duet of "Alsion". The Police followed after the stage change with an amazing set (listed below). My favorite moments were "Message In A Bottle", "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic", and "So Lonely". However, the absolute highlight was "Wrapped Around Your Finger". I was totally unprepared for it and the amazing percussion from Stewart. All things considered, it was $46 well spent. It also gave me hope. If these lads could put aside their egos and reunite to put on an amazing show, then there is still hope for Morrissey and Johnny Marr making up and bringing the Smiths back to life.

07-19-08 Salt Lake City (USANA Amphitheatre)
Message In A Bottle
Walking On The Moon
Demolition Man
Voices Inside My Head
When The World Is Running Down
Don't Stand So Close To Me
Driven To Tears
Hole In My Life
Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic
Wrapped Around Your Finger
De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da
Invisible Sun
Can't Stand Losing You

Roxanne
King Of Pain
So Lonely
Every Breath You Take

Next To You

Here are some clips I found that hopefully represent the experience...

Elvis Costello joined by Sting for "Alison" (Live from USANA; Bonus:"Peace, Love, & Understanding")

The Police - "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" (Live from USANA)

The Police - "Wrapped Around Your Finger" (Live from Amsterdam)

Sesame Street

2008-07-17T17:10:00.003-06:00

Sesame Street has been around for some time, 38 seasons if wikipedia can be trusted. My generation was raised on Muppets and soaked up the many lessons they taught us, sharing and cooperation, counting, and that it's sometimes ok to be a grouch. It's no wonder that many in the entertainment industry give back to the show by doing guest appearances. When musician Feist released "1234", she was practically begging to be on Sesame Street, "Look, I can count to 4!"

Well, Feist recently made her appearance and she is so cute doing it. I've also included R.E.M. performing "Furry Happy Monsters", and Cookie Monster's recent appearance on The Colber Report. (He admits to some excess living in the 70s and 80s.) Hopefully, if I ever have kids, they can also learn some lessons from those Muppets of Sesame Street.

Feist "1234" (Sesame Street Version)

R.E.M. "Furry Happy Monsters"

Cookie Monster on The Colbert Report

Reality Shows and Friends

2008-07-09T10:52:00.003-06:00

Reality show contestants must have plenty of friends. Otherwise, they wouldn't be so prone to dismiss the merits of making new friends. For anyone that watches just a little reality show television, you've heard many statements about being there to win, not to make friends. This montage collects some of the many statements that are used to justify their poor interpersonal behavior.

I thought that making and cultivating friendships was one of the better parts to life. I pledge, if I am ever a contestant on a reality television program, I will be there solely for making friends.

Claymation is back...

2008-07-07T10:44:00.003-06:00

A few years ago I was worried that the demise of MTV as a source for music would marginalize the art of the music video. I suppose I'm old enough to remember the glory days of VJs (I loved Martha Quinn) and hours of videos. Normally, I would stay up on Sunday night and watch 120 Minutes for the latest videos from alternative bands. Luckily, the internet still provides a medium for bands to introduce themselves and many of them produce videos, almost solely for viewing on the web.

One of my new favorite bands is Fleet Foxes. Signed to SubPop and hailing from Seattle, their brand of harmony-rich Americana follows in the footsteps of My Morning Jacket, Band of Horses, and even Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young. Their first video for "White Winter Hymnal" uses the under-utilized art form of claymation. The release notes for the video state,

Self described as "baroque harmonic pop", the large sound of their
self-titled debut is brought to you through the amazing talents of director Sean
Pecknold (lead vocalist Robin's brother) & visual stimulus of clay, which
speaks to the life cycle of what our environment used to look like.

The purpose of this post is to share the video...so here it is.

Fleet Foxes - "White Winter Hymnal"

BONUS VIDEO
While were on the topic of videos, here's one of my all-time favorite videos of one of my all-time favorite songs.

The Smiths - "How Soon Is Now?"

Everybody Cut!!!

2008-06-30T22:28:00.005-06:00

While I was browsing Stereogum, my attention turned to a report of New York musician Doveman (Thomas Bartlett) covering the entire Footloose soundtrack. I remember the album very well, being a child of the 80s and only having a handful of records that my parents had purchased for me (Michael Jackson, The Police, Bruce Springsteen, and Survivor were others that I had at the time...). Anyways, I loved the album as a kid, and love the "reimagining" of the songs by Doveman. I also find the inspiration for the album quite interesting. Doveman's childhood friend, Gabriel Greenberg helped provide the inspiration for the project...

When I was very young, my half-sister Jenny died tragically. She was a teenager, and it was the 80's. She left behind a wardrobe of brightly colored clothes, rainbow stickers, life-size paintings, doodles on lined paper, and hundreds of tapes. These constitute most of my memories of her. It's sad for me to look at these things, and usually I don't. But a couple of summers ago I found a tape of hers with a startling cover photograph - this was Footloose. I couldn't stop listening: it was a portrait of 80's love, desire, pain, freedom, and frenzy; of being a teenager in a time of change. By listening, I could step into Jenny's shoes, see things from her vantage point. I could be emancipated by rock and roll and walkmen, just as she had been. We could listen together.

I asked my friend Thomas to cover the album, which, sheltered as he is, he had never heard before. I was clear that I wanted to him to cover the whole album - the point wasn't to rework any one song, but to re-imagine the picture they made together. With a new Footloose we could reply to the past, tell our own story about being young. This is what he made.

The title track is available for your listening pleasure in my playlist. The full album is available for download from Doveman's website. I hope you enjoy the stark version of a pop culture classic.

Washington D.C.

2008-06-28T14:46:00.002-06:00

I recently returned from a nice trip to Washington DC. I feel fortunate to travel to our capitol on such a regular basis. Normally, I go to DC in the late fall and with a group of high school students. This time, I travelled with a group of teachers, primarily elementary school teachers, as part of a Teach American History grant. Highlights of this trip include the National Portrait Gallery ( I feel sad that I missed Stephen Colbert's portrait), a wonderful Capitol tour by Rep. Rob Bishop (UT-1), a day at Gettysburg, and a 14 inning marathon baseball game at the new Nationals stadium. Here are a few pictures from the trip...

Washington's Mansion at Mount Vernon

Looking down the Mall from the Capitol on a beautiful day

The Capitol...enough said.

An evening shot of the Washington Monument from the Capitol

Gettysburg battlefield

Concert Season...

2008-06-28T12:15:00.003-06:00

It looks like another strong concert season for Salt Lake City (and even a major Logan event...). I havn't included all of the shows, just the ones of interest and that I may attend. I am sure more shows will be added as the summer continues and I'll try to update the list. I hope to see many of you at the shows...

DAY-----------ARTISTS------------------------VENUE
Fri 7/4---------Styx-----------------------------Cache County Fairgrounds
Fri 7/11--------Cheap Trick/Journey------------USANA
Sat 7/12--------Film School----------------------Kilby Court
Thu 7/17-------Andrew Bird---------------------Gallivan Center
Sat 7/19-------Police/Elvis Costello----------USANA
Wed 7/23------Fleet Foxes--------------------Kilby Court
Thu 7/24-------De La Soul/Cool Kids-------------Gallivan Center
Thu 8/8--------Nada Surf------------------------Gallivan Center
Wed 8/20------Avett Brothers-----------------The Depot
Thu 8/21-------Broken Social Scene---------------Gallivan Center
Thu 8/28-------Neko Case------------------------Gallivan Center
Sat 9/13-------TV On The Radio----------------In The Venue
Sun 9/28------Sigur Ros------------------------Saltair
Sat 10/4--------Silver Jews-----------------------Urban Lounge
Sat 11/22------Coldplay-----------------------EnergySolutions Arena

Note: All shows at the Gallivan Center are free shows...

Two Things I've Enjoyed...

2008-06-04T11:35:00.002-06:00

Right now my job is to enjoy stuff. Yesterday, with all my spare time to enjoy stuff, two things made me smile and I thought I'd share...

I always enjoy good husband/wife indie-pop, and the new Mates of State doesn't disappoint. In fact, I've found myself putting the track on repeat, a slight break from the new Coldplay track.

Mates of State - "My Only Offer"

For people that enjoy either LOST and/or The Daily Show is a clip comparing the Democratic Primary to Season 2 of LOST. I think the comparison works. By the way, congratulations to Barack Obama on clinching the Democratic nomination.

It's Officially Summer!

2008-06-03T12:24:00.007-06:00

For teachers, the first weekday into summer vacation is a glorious feeling. The only thing remotely close might be the end of final exams. I survived another school year (my seventh total), and am ready for relaxing, reading, BBQs, and doing whatever else I want. I must say that I enjoyed the end of year ceremonies and will miss the class of '08, an eclectic group that consistently made me chuckle (on the inside...you can't encourage them.) It was also sad to say goodbye to my AP kids. They are a talented, likable group of young adults and were the main reason I was able to get out of bed each morning. They even gave me an X-Files poster to commemorate our year together and the class made t-shirts of little known abolitionist Benjamin Lay. It was a wonderful year.

I also have a few photos of the mass of graduates before Candlelight, my favorite Logan High tradition.

Yes, school's out for summer!

Commercials?

2008-05-28T08:55:00.005-06:00

I'm in the middle of the last week of school after a hectic month of May. AP Tests are done. I'm finalizing grades and cleaning up my classroom. Everything is wrapping up for summer including my favorite tv programs. I admit a certain fascination with American idol and the two Mormon finalists. However, my theory of a Mormon call center, frantically dialing for David Archuleta was somewhat busted, (although Newsweek has noticed a trend as Mormons are dominating reality television.) But as I was watching the American Idol finale, I was dazzled by the new iTunes commercial, advertising the new Coldplay album. Obviously, Apple knows how to create compelling commercials, that may even be considered "art". More and more, I see great commercials and applaud the creative choices they make, most especially the songs. Some people call it "selling out", but I have no problem with good artists earning a living. Let's be honest. I'd rather hear Band of Horses in a Ford commercial than some stupid jingle. I think the most talked about ad, and the one that revived a dead singer's career, was the Volkwagen "Pink Moon" ad. A recent favorite was the Discovery Channel's promo spot that features one of the most catchy tunes I've heard all year, (by the way, I really dig the Discovery Channel HD). As long as commercials keep up this trend, I may not fast forward through them as I watch my favorite DVR'd programs.

iTunes - "Viva La Vida"

Volkswagen - "Pink Moon"

Discovery Channel - "I Love The World"

Songs For The AP Test

2008-05-06T19:58:00.005-06:00

This Friday around 300,000 high school students will sit down and take a 3 hour 5 minute examination in U.S. History. Students will answer 80 multiple choice questions in 55 minutes and write 3 essays (one with document analysis) in 2 hours 10 minutes. Around the second week of July, roughly 50% of the students will learn they are deemed "qualified" to receive college credit. The other 50% will most likely curse the year they spent with U.S. History teachers like myself. My students have been wonderful and worked hard to prepare. To put them over the top, I created a mixed CD of relevant history related tunes and songs to put them in the right frame of mind.

Those that knew me in college, know of the "Four Horsemen", an elite group of history students consisting of myself, Aaron Andersen, Dr. Christopher Hodson, and sometimes a revolving fourth member, (which functioned much like the drummer in Spinal Tap). The Horsemen all had the "eye of the tiger" and clearly showed this edge every test day, (it should be noted that one blog reader living in California consistently mocked the horsemen, although the results should speak for themselves...we were awesome). It's no wonder that I've been preaching the "eye of the tiger" from day one of my teaching career. (I see myself as part Duke, part Mickey in my teaching style.) This year's class has been particularly receptive to this message, and even had the opportunity to meet all three Horsemen at a special lecture/Horsemen reunion where Dr. Hodson enlightened the kids on colonial slavery and signed autographs. Last week I was delighted when I learned of a special AP American History screening of Rocky III. These students clearly understand. I figured giving the students the right music for the occasion was the least I could do. I hope they enjoy it and all will go into the test with an attitude that could knock out Ivan Drago.

(If you have any suggestions for future mixes, please leave them in the comments.)

Track List
1. Bill Conti - Rocky Theme (Gonna Fly Now)
2. Survivor - Eye Of The Tiger (Rocky III)
3. Journey - Don’t Stop Believin’
4. Bruce Springsteen - Erie Canal
5. Neil Diamond - America
6. Marah - John Brown’s Body
7. Joe Esposito - You’re The Best (The Karate Kid)
8. They Might Be Giants - James K. Polk
9. Bruce Springsteen - Eyes On The Prize
10. John Cafferty - Heart’s On Fire (Rocky IV)
11. Van Halen - Right Now
12. Suzy Bogguss - Rosie The Riveter
13. They Might Be Giants - Tippecanoe & Tyler Too
14. Andrew W.K. - Never Let Down
15. Neil Young - Campaigner
16. Paul Anka - Eye Of The Tiger
17. Johnny Cash - Mister Garfield
18. The The - This Is The Day
19. Bonnie Prince Billy - The World’s Greatest (R. Kelly Cover)
20. The Polyphonic Spree - Light & Day (Orchestral Mix)

By the way, I think it says something when the key clips from Rocky and Karate Kid each have more than 1 million plays on YouTube...

Rocky Training Montage - "Eye of the Tiger"

Karate Kid Montage - "You're The Best"

Andrew W.K. - "Never Let Down"

Band of the Week

2008-04-27T23:10:00.005-06:00

I've always wished I was cool enough to listen to the Replacements in high school. Unfortunately, I never was. I may not be cool enough to listen to them now, but I do. This past week Rhino reissued the first four Replacements albums from their Twin/Tone days, with expanded tracks and fully remastered (although I don't know if that means much for this band.) The reissues have generated numerous critical reviews of the band, allowing current rock critics to write the reviews they wish they could have 25 years ago. I don't blame the reviews for their universal praise. It's easy to get nostalgic with the Mats. After reading the reviews, you can't help but put on their classic "Let It Be" album. Hence, they've been a much listened to band this week.

Here are a few clips that will either introduce you to the Replacements, or remind you of their greatness....

"Unsatisfied", is certainly one of my all-time favorite songs and I highly recommend the track review on the All-Music Guide. Encouraged to make a video for MTV by their label, "Bastards of Young" featured their "anti-video" video of the stereo playing their song. The last clip is a cool live performance of "Answering Machine" from a 1989 concert. I hope you enjoy them.

"Unsatisfied" -- Paul Westerberg (solo live)

"Bastards of Young" -- The Replacements

"Answering Machine" -- The Replacements (live)

Songs of Spring

2008-04-13T18:31:00.002-06:00

Today has been the first day that has actually hinted at spring, (I define this as the first day I'm tempted to put on the air conditioning.) Of course, this also corresponds with a change in my playlist to more of my "songs of spring". I'm sure many people do this, but there are certain artists that enhance the feel of spring. This isn't a definitive list, but I tend to gravitate towards the Ocean Blue, the Orange Peels, early R.E.M., the New Pornographers, and Matthew Sweet. Clearly, all of these bands have strong ties to the power-pop sound, but I don't know if that explains my affection for these bands in the spring. I'm sure many of you have similar bands and songs that define this time of year and I welcome you to share your favorites in the comments. At any rate, here are a few clips that help provide the soundtrack to my springs.

(I wish I could have found a better version of "Something Strange Happens", but hopefully the live version will do. I was torn on the Matthew Sweet video, but ultimately settled on "We're The Same" because of the groovy girls directed by Roman Coppola. The Ocean Blue clip is perfect, despite the autumn setting of the video. They'll always be a springtime band for me.)

The Ocean Blue - "Drifting, Falling"

The Orange Peels - "Something Strange Happens" (live)

Matthew Sweet - "We're The Same"

Martin Luther King Jr.

2008-04-04T07:45:00.000-06:00

Today is the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. April 4, 1968, King was in Memphis supporting a sanitation workers strike. After a pillow fight with his lieutenants, he stepped out on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel and was gunned down by James Earl Ray. King was just 39 years old.

I feel fortunate to teach American history and to specifically teach the history of King and the Civil Rights Movement every year. The story of King and others inspires many of the students I teach and always reminds me of the promise of America.

To honor this day, here is a clip of U2 performing the song Pride (In the Name Of Love), a song inspired and about Dr. King. I've always enjoyed the fact that an Irish band fell in love with America and used it for inspiration of many of its greatest songs. I hope you enjoy the clip.

U2 - Pride (In The Name Of Love)

Something old, something new, and something a cappella...

2008-04-01T20:18:00.000-06:00

Happy April everyone! Some people have asked me what I've been listening to recently. While I'm continually listening to music, I suppose we could categorize my recent playlist as a combination of new music released in the last four months, music from my high school years (classic alternative for some), and collegiate a cappella (and no, this doesn't include any Utah colleges nor will it ever.)

1. New Music
I've really enjoyed the Mary Onettes, Devotchka, The Mountain Goats, British Sea Power, Bob Mould, Bon Iver, Los Campesinos, The Bell, Magnetic Fields, and Vampire Weekend. I'm still digesting the new releases from R.E.M., Head of Femur, Nada Surf, and Colin Meloy Sings Live!

To represent the "new" category, I think we'll go with a live clip of Devotchka at SXSW performing a song from the new album, "Along The Way".

2. Old Music
This old music certainly isn't that old. They're not the Beatles or anything, but their prime was certainly the 80s-early 90s. Most of this list were staples of my favorite MTV show ever, 120 Minutes, (sorry Hills). Lately, I've been listening to a lot of early Cure, The Ocean Blue, Trash Can Sinatras, Inspiral Carpets, New Order, the Bernard Sumner/Johnny Marr side-project Electronic (Which should have been much greater than it was considering its foundation was one of my all-time favorite vocalists and all-time favorite guitarists. However, after listening to them again over the past few weeks, they were still pretty good.) and Kitchens of Distinction.

This clip comes from the Kitchens of Distinction, one of the more under-rated bands of the early 90s. Their swirling guitars were just as good as any of those shoegazer bands. Anyways, here's a live clip of one of their better songs, "Time To Say Goodbye".

3. Collegiate A Cappella
Alright, I give credit to Mr. Andersen for this one. His east coast stint gave him access to wonderful groups that were arranging modern alternative hits, rather than the traditional and boring doo-wop that typifies Utah a cappella. Coldplay, Jimmy Eat World, Ben Folds, U2, Guster, the Killers, and Radiohead are all staples of these groups. After sifting through the mediocre and unimaginative groups, my favorite groups seem to be the Tufts Beelzebubs, UPenn Penny Loafers, and the UVA Academical Village People, mainly due to the Jefferson reference in their name.

Here is one of my favorite a cappella arrangements from the U of Texas Ransom Notes doing Jimmy Eat World's "For Me This Is Heaven".

It's been one of those months....

2008-03-26T16:36:00.000-06:00

Chicago was great. The Aggies broke my heart again. I'm listening to great new music. Blah. Blah. Blah. Anyways, this clip pretty much sums up how I've been doing. I hope you enjoy.

Thought from the Oscars...

2008-02-24T23:51:00.001-07:00

I'll admit it. I enjoy watching the Academy Awards and usually try to see the nominated films. Unfortunately, it's been a rough year for seeing the top films. Logan doesn't seem to keep these sort of films in town for longer than a week, if they're here at all. I'm sure I'll be able to catch up on DVD. Anyways, as I was watching Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova perform "Falling Slowly" from my favorite 2007 film Once, I wanted them to win so badly. The song was stark, beautiful and absolutely perfect for the film and reminded me of my favorite Oscar nominated song from 10 years earlier. In 1997, Elliott Smith was nominated for "Miss Misery" which appeared in Good Will Hunting. I remember Elliott performing that night in his lucky white suit, alone. The other nominated song performances came from Trisha Yearwood ("How Do I Love" from Con Air) and Celine Dion ("My Heart Will Go On" from Titanic), and Elliott seemed a little out of place. I wanted so badly for Elliott to win, but he couldn't beat the Titanic juggernaut. Anyways, Glen and Marketa won and Glen gave a gracious acceptance speech that was perfect for the occasion, but as Marketa started to address the audience, the damn orchestra started to play and they cut the mic. Luckily Jon Stewart was there. After the commercial break, he brought Marketa back out so she could have a proper acceptance speech and it was really kind of a beautiful moment. It also made me wonder what Elliott would have said if he had won. At any rate, I still need to pack for Chicago, but just felt like writing this. I've just watched the video of Elliott's Oscar performance and thought I'd share, along with a performance of "Falling Slowly". Enjoy.

"Miss Misery" - Elliott Smith

"Falling Slowly" - Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova

Heading to Chicago...

2008-02-24T00:04:00.000-07:00

Monday morning I'll be heading out to Chicago for a few days to check out a real school, Adlai Stevenson High, named after the failed Democratic candidate for President in 1952 & 1956. In honor of my trip to Chicago, I'll share a few clips that relate....a little from Illinois' most famous current politician, Barack Obama, an ode to Chicago from an indie rock artist, and a track from a classic Chicago band (technically Rockford, IL). Enjoy!

Oh, and for my readers that enjoy LOST...I highly recommend the myspace band "Previously On Lost", a band that writes an original song to recap the previous week's episode. I really dig the "Ballad of Sayid".

Yes, We Can

"Chicago" - Sufjan Stevens

"She's Tight" - Cheap Trick

Happy President's Day

2008-02-18T10:24:00.001-07:00

In honor of President's Day, and because I regularly teach about these guys (and yes, they are all guys), I thought I'd deliver a couple of Presidential themed Top 5 lists. Here are my Top 5 Favorite Presidents and Top 5 Least Favorite Presidents. As far as selections, I left out any living Presidents from the discussion. The day is for the dead ones not the living, although I'm having a nice internal chuckle imagining President Bush celebrating himself today.

My Top 5 Least Favorite Presidents

5. Gerald Ford (1974-77)

I don't have any real reason for not liking Gerald Ford. I suppose it comes from the fact that he was never elected President or Vice-President, yet was thrust upon us when Nixon resigned in 1974. He championed the wearing of W.I.N. buttons (Whip Inflation Now) that didn't whip inflation. His greatest accomplishment was presiding over the bicentennial, which really shouldn't be included as an accomplishment. I suppose his all-around blahness offends me.

4. Millard Fillmore (1850-53)

I hate that this guy has a county and city named after him here in Utah, (also a notorious speed trap on your way to Vegas.) Taking office after the death of Zachery Taylor, Fillmore, one of our few Whig presidents, famously watched other people (Henry Clay, Stephan A. Douglas) craft the Compromise of 1850. After the Whig party disbanded during the Kansas-Nebraska debacle, Fillmore ran for President in 1856 for the "Know-Nothing" Party, with the evils of immigration serving as their primary issue. I have little use for Millard Fillmore.

3. James Buchanan (1857-61)

While an able Democrat most of his life, his main attractiveness to the Democratic Party was being out of the country during Kansas-Nebraska (serving as a diplomat in Britain if I remember correctly. Sorry, Buchanan, I don't care enough to fact check...) Buchanan is known for the forcing Dred Scott v. Sandford and the Lecompton constitution, (again, more Kansas-Nebraska stuff), down the nation's throat. Not to mention, when Lincoln won the election of 1860 and the deep South is seceding left and right, Buchanan sits on his hands and does nothing. He's also our only bachleor president, though I like that about him.

2. Warren G. Harding (1921-1923)

He campaigned on a "return to normalcy" after World War I and ushered in the 1920s. The problem with Harding was his inability to appoint anyone of any competence to key administration positions. The "Ohio Gang" as people called them, ran afoul of the law and common decency and created scandal after scandal, most famous being Teapot Dome (it deals with oil.) Historians generally agree that Harding was the worst presdient ever. But what takes it over the top for me was the fact that Harding was inducted as an honorary member of the KKK while in office.

1. Andrew Johnson (1865-69)

Three of my top 5 least favorites are accidental presidents, but Johnson is the wreck of the man that takes over after the most significant assassination in American history. Johnson was a Southern Democrat that Lincoln tabbed to be VP in the 1864 campaign to show the South that he would be compassionate and forgiving when it came to reconstruction. Turns out, this "symbol" had to serve as President and quickly revealed his racist colors. Johnson would veto most of the radical Republican plan for reconstruction and ended up impeached, although missed removal from office by one vote. I'd like to think that Lincoln would have done a much better job after the war and our nationed would have healed much more nicely. Instead, Johnson gave us an ugly scar of a Presidency. Thanks for nothing Andrew Johnson.

My Top 5 Favorite Presidents

5. Richard M. Nixon (1969-1974)

I've always felt a weird connection to old Nixon. The front page of the newspaper the day I was born was something about Nixon saying he wouldn't resign. Three days later he resigned. While I admit that Nixon is an extremely shady individual that abused the power of the presidency, I kind of admire him. It took cojones to create the "imperial presidency." I'm sure there are quite a few Americans that would use the "perks" of the office for personal reasons. I mean people call the president the most powerful person in the world. How could this not go to your head somehow? Anyways, Nixon gave us "detente", ended U.S. involvement in Vietnam (except for John Rambo), gave us the EPA, hung out with Henry Kissinger, and of course organized "the plumbers" and gave us the mother of all scandals, WATERGATE! He's a tragic figure that shows us the corrupting nature of power and is an essential figure in helping us understand the modern presidency. Oh, and I kind of like him.

4. Harry S Truman (1945-53)

Talk about big shoes to fill. Truman took over after FDR died at the beginning of his FOURTH term. He was informed that we had just developed the atomic bomb and decided that the U.S. should drop two of them on Japan, the only person to ever make this decision in human history. The moral implications not withstanding, Truman ended the war and quickly started the COLD WAR. I suppose what I really like about Truman is his willingness to take action on civil rights, an action that many thought would cost him re-election in 1948 and even triggered a "Dixiecrat" revolt led by Stom Thurmond. No one gave him a chance and Truman won over Dewey in a surprise win. Truman left office unpopular and knee-deep in the Korean War. Historians have been kind to Truman in recent years and rank him as one of our best presidents. Give em' hell Harry!

3. Abraham Lincoln (1861-65)

I know what you're thinking, totally and completely cliche. You're right. But no president went through more trials than Lincoln. The man didn't appear on the ballot of most Southern states and triggered the secession crisis that led to the war. Completely inexperienced, he filled his cabinet with the most able men he could fine, and learned how to be a great leader on the job. He was funny, self-depreciating, prone to melencholy, and completely dedicated to the idea of the Union. The more I learn about his character, the more I like him.

2. Thomas Jefferson (1801-1809)

Best known as the main writer of the Declaration of Independence and for sleeping with Sally Hemmings, Jefferson provided a real blue print for the office of the presidency, rather than giving the people monarchy-lite. He gave us our first real political party (Democratic-Republicans), and put us on egalitarian footing as a nation. His rhetoric was always idealistic and has always challenged us as a nation to be better than we are. Despite his slave ownership and troubling writings on the topic of slavery, Jefferson reminds us of who we are as a nation, contradicting, hypocritical, complex. I suppose Jefferson should remind all of us of the contradictions in all of us, but also the ability we have to overcome our weaknesses and realize our potential, just like America.

1. Theodore Roosevelt (1901-1909)

TR was perhaps our best accidental president, taking the office after William McKinley was shot by an anarchist in Buffalo. Our youngest president (42), he brought vitality and action to an office that had endured 40 years of bearded zeroes. He was an outdoorsman, an intellectual and writer, and an advocate for reform and change. He saw greed and big business take hold of America during the Gilded Age and used the office of the presidency to give it back to the people. Like Jefferson and Lincoln before him, he carried with him much grief and doubt, but worked through his issues and became one of our most beloved leaders. I love him too.

My Favorite Album This Week...

2008-02-16T15:16:00.000-07:00

In my new Paste magazine, a review for Bon Iver, the solo project of Justin Vernon, caught my attention. Self released towards the end of 2007 (but will be getting a formal release this week from indie label Jagjaguwar), For Emma, Forever Ago is a beautiful acoustic album that sounds like an acoustic project from TV On The Radio. I searched around and found a nice review from Pitchfork, which gives some interesting details on the recording of the album.

In 2005, Vernon's former band DeYarmond Edison moved from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to North Carolina. As the band developed and matured in its new home, the members' artistic interests diverged and eventually the group disbanded. While his bandmates formed Megafaun, Vernon-- who had worked with the Rosebuds and Ticonderoga-- returned to Wisconsin, where he sequestered himself in a remote cabin for four snowy months. During that time, he wrote and recorded most of the songs that would eventually become For Emma, Forever Ago.

I like the idea of an album coming out of a snowy winter cabin, there's a certain darkness to the project that I find appealling. Here's a neat little clip from a radio performance with a bonus video of the Editors at the same radio station doing a wonderful acoustic version of "Smokers Outside The Hospital Doors". And for the record, I'm still loving the Mary Onettes album.

UPDATE: Popmatters just posted a nice article on Bon Iver here....

Bon Iver "Lump Sum" (radio performance)

Editors "Smokers Outside The Hospital Doors" (live acoustic)

The Mary Onettes "Void" (live)

Alright, Back To Some Music...

2008-02-09T15:26:00.000-07:00

Several people have asked me what I've been listening to lately. I suppose I've been waiting for the first great album of 2008. In the meantime, I've been listening to a lot of Red House Painters, my favorite sadcore band from the mid-90s. Now, I'm not certain on the first great album of 2008, (Vampire Weekend might qualify), but there are two albums that have been in heavy rotation over the past week. (I'm also listening to the new Mountain Goats, Bob Mould, Magnetic Fields, and the very promising British Sea Power release. I'll post more on these when I make up my mind.)

1. The Mary Onettes-- The reviews for this Swedish import have been mediocre, but this is based on the fact that they remind reviewers of Echo & The Bunnymen, The Cure, The Church, Morrissey, and "Regret" era New Order. Wait a second, this is why reviewers don't like it. Perhaps you have to be a Joy Division inspired band to get critical acclaim. Last time I checked, the above bands were all some of my favorites. I downloaded their album and absolutely love it. They took my favorite parts of my favorite 80s bands and assembled them in a musical labratory in Sweden. Perfect. You can download two of their tracks here, and here. Finally, here's a live clip of the unfortunately named, Mary Onettes. (I especially enjoy moment 2:35 to the end in the following clip.)

The Mary Onettes - "Lost" (live)

2. Lightspeed Champion - This project of Texas born, but Scottish raised Devonte Haynes was recorded in Omaha with those fun Saddle Creek folks. It spans many genres and clearly has grand ambitions. The reviews of the album have been all over the place, due to certain questions over lyric topics (described as angry, snarky, and depressed as hell). However, the music is stunning. Here is a live version of the standout track "Galaxy of Lost." I hope you enjoy.

Lightspeed Champion - "Galaxy of the Lost" (live)

Why I Love Stephen Colbert...

2008-01-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

I love the Colbert Report. His cult of personality is inspiring. He's baked pies with Gloria Steinem and Jane Fonda (Cooking With Feminists). He had Henry Kissinger moderate a guitar shred-off between the Decemberists and Stephen, represented by Peter Frampton. The great George Lucas participated in Stephen's green screen challenge. He stole a microwave from Bill O'Reilly. And most recently, Stephen got his portrait into the National Portrait Gallery in D.C., although it does hang from the restroom entrance. But a few nights ago may have been my favorite Stephen moment. It combines Stephen, Andrew Young, a 1969 hospital strike in South Carolina, the current writers' strike, and a stirring rendition of "Let My People Go", sung by Stephen, Young, Malcolm Gladwell, and the Harlem Gospel Choir. These three clips are touching, hilarious, and dare I say inspiring. I hope you enjoy them. I also recommend the commentary on this episode from a TV Squad article.

Civil Rights Lesson by Stephen

Andrew Young Interview

Let My People Go

RIP DV8 (1989-2008)

2008-01-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

As I looked at this morning's newspaper, the front page showed Club DV8 up in flames. Granted DV8 hasn't been an active club in years, but I did feel a twinge of saddness. From 1990-2000 DV8 served as my favorite concert venue, with two Elliott Smith shows being the highlights for me. With the vacant club still there, I was always hopeful that it would reopen and regain its old status, but I guess not.

Oops...This is why I read year-end lists.

2008-01-07T21:33:00.000-07:00

I subscribe to 3 music magazines, read good music blogs and websites, have a sister that works at Graywhale CD, and many friends that listen to great music. Yet, I missed one of my new favorite songs because I thought I didn't really like LCD Soundsystem. But as I read the year-end lists on Pitchfork, they had two LCD Soundsystem songs in the top 10 of their Top 100 songs of 2007 list, including the #1 song, "All My Friends." I felt obligated to at least listen before I decided it wasn't for me, but I was completely wrong. "All My Friends" might have to be a do-over selection for top tracks of 2007, even though I didn't listen to it until January 4, 2008. There is also a very nice write up on the song from Slate that I highly recommend. I believe that the song will resonate with many of my good friends. Also, you should check out the Franz Ferdinand cover of the song which was recorded as an intended B-side for the single, it has a very early New Orderish feel to it.

By the way, I am still working on my top albums and songs of all-time. I have a notebook with a few pages of lists that I will share when I have given the issue its proper consideration. Being sick for the last week didn't help the process, so just be patient, it will come.

"All My Friends" - LCD Soundsystem

"All My Friends" - Franz Ferdinand

My Top 10 Songs of 2007

2007-12-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Alright, Aaron has challenged me to a list of songs and I gladly accept. I actually went back to my Last.fm charts to see if I could find some statistical evidence to back up my choices. It's worth noting, that most of my best albums had tracks that were worthy of the Top 10 list, but their were some nice gems buried away on other albums that received a lot of airplay. With that said here goes....

10. "I Just Called To Say I Love You" - Pelle Carlberg
Another Swede, I oughta just move to Sweden I love them so much. He's been described as the Swedish Elvis Costello, and I can totally see it. For me, this song has the feel of an old Housemartins song, harmonica and all. Unfortunately, there are no clips for my favorite song. So we'll go with my 2nd favorite.

"I Love You, You Imbecile"

9. "Don't Stop Believin'" - Petra Haden
This song has been a Soffe favorite since his days in middle school. Unfortunately for middle school Soffe, Journey wasn't very cool back then. Like Soffe, this song has made a comeback....Vegas road trips helped, Laguna Beach kids got the high school kids on board, the end of the Sopranos used it, Kanye West dedicated the song to his late mother. And now indie kids are listening to this version featured on an indie covers compilation, "Guilt By Association."

"Don't Stop Believin'" (live)

8. "Who's Got A Match?" - Biffy Clyro
I love this Scottish power trio that plays sans shirts, yet play some of the best rock melodies & vocal harmonies. They opened up for Editors back in September and became one of my favorite shows of the year. Fortunately for you, they have a number of great live performances up on the YouTube. This song was one of many highlights of their show, with a wonderful sing-a-long chorus. Also check out one of their older songs, "Glitter & Trauma". Bonus Fact: Biffy Clyro have two wonderful acoustic covers of Rhianna's "Umbrella" and the Killers "When You Were Young".

"Who's Got A Match?" (live from Reading)

7. "Our Life Is Not A Movie Or Maybe" - Okkervil River
This song has everything I like...existential angst, rising chorus, feedback, indie guitar solo (not to be confused with a metal guitar solo), and quite a bit of heart.

"Our Life Is Not A Movie Or Maybe"

6. "Underdog" - Spoon
This song sounds to me like indie-Paul Simon. It's got a wonderful world music vibe to it. I also enjoy it for its horn section, hand claps, fun percussion, and its love of the underdog. I think we all love a good underdog story.

"Underdog"

5. "Umbrella" - Rhianna (and Mandy Moore, Biffy Clyro, Scott Simons, Tegan & Sara...there were many, many covers)
This song was everywhere and rightfully so. It's a great song. I'm amazed by the rumors that so many "Big" artists passed on the song. Why would you pass on this? Anyways, 21,000,000 views on youtube can't all be wrong, can they? However, I'll give you Mandy Moore's version.

"Umbrella" (Mandy Moore)

4. "Mistaken For Strangers" - The National
A repeat offender from my top 10 albums list, so there's not much new to say. According to my Last.fm chart, I played this song 80 times on the old computer this year. Anyways, I didn't get too sick of it this year, so some of you can watch two different versions of the song.

"Mistaken For Strangers"

3. "Adventures In Solitude" - The New Pornographers
This song was played 90 times on my Last.fm list, not too bad. Why did I like it so much? Neko Case. I love her and the soft side of the New Pornographers displayed here.

"Adventures In Solitude" (live)

2. "Kreuzberg" - Bloc Party
I wish this song was part of the permanent soundtrack of my life, then everything I do would have an epic feel to it. This song was played 131 times this year and made everything I do feel monumental. I hope it makes this post monumental. For you track nerds, I love moment 2:27 of the posted version, gets me every time.

"Kreuzberg" (live @Bristol Academy)

1. "Elephant Gun" - Beirut
This song was an EP track for Beirut, the baby-faced songsmith with a fetish for European gypsy music. This song was the most played song of my 2007, 151 plays. It might be my favorite song of 2008 if current trends continue. I love the horns, the accordion, the melody, and I really love the video. I hope you'll enjoy it as much as me. By the way, my favorite part of the song kicks in at 3:29 when the horns drop out, check it out and you'll see what I mean.

"Elephant Gun"

My Top 10 Albums of 2007

2007-12-22T14:39:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite parts of the end of the year, is the massive amounts of online lists of the best movies, tv, books, and my personal favorite, music. The fun is that everyone has their own lists and enjoy comparing them to the "experts" from Pitchfork, Popmatters, Stereogum, Rolling Stone, Paste, and many, many others. While you may disagree with me on some of my selections, I hope we can all agree that 2007 was a pretty good year for music. Before I get to my Top 10, I just want to acknowledge some of the other albums I enjoyed: Sigur Ros - "Hvarf/Heim", Elliott Smith - "New Moon", Interpol - "Our Love To Admire", The Clientele - "God Save The Clientele", Beirut -"Flying Club Cup", Iron & Wine - "Shepard's Dog", Arcade Fire - "Neon Bible", Biffy Clyro - "Puzzle", Okkervil River - "The Stage Names", Spoon - "Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga", The Shins - "Wincing The Night Away", St. Vincent - "Marry Me", Jens Lekman - "Night Falls Over Kortedala", The Twilight Sad - "Fourteen Autumns And Fifteen Winters", Stars - "In Our Bedroom After War", and Ryan Adams - "Easy Tiger"....(great album from old RA, but horrible concert. ) I still havn't listened to that Radiohead album that everyone likes...give me "Fake Plastic Trees", dammit. Anyways, here's my top 10, feel free to comment on your favorites.

10. Of Montreal - "Hissing Fauna, Are You The Destroyer?"

Art rock with just enough power pop to make me like it. I really enjoyed the weirdness of this album, but it made the top 10 based on its over the top melodies.

Best Song: Suffer For Fashion

"Suffer For Fashion"

9. Sally Shapiro - "Disco Romance"

You had me at "Swedish." In discovering this melancholy techno album, I also discovered a new sub genre of music, Italo Disco. Yes, I think I love Italo Disco and Sally Shapiro could be my gateway drug. I just love the way this album feels, up-beat and sad...perfect for the night drive.

Best Song: I'll Be By Your Side

"Jackie, Jackie (Spend This Winter With Me)"

8. Editors - "An End Has A Start"

This sophomore album wasn't as well received by critics as their debut, but I think it's the better album. The songs have a little more polish and the band is certainly shooting for the lofty heights of U2 and Coldplay. For the most part, I thought they succeeded in making a bigger album. By the way, the Editors/Biffy Clyro concert was one of my favorite this year, two bands at the top of their game.

Best Song: Smokers Outside The Hospital Doors

"Smokers Outside The Hospital Doors (live)"

7. Band Of Horses - "Cease To Begin"

Another sophomore album from one of my favorite bands of 2006. I'll be honest, I don't think I liked this album very much on the first try. I moved on to other more exciting music, but came back to it and fell in love with their mellow, southern sound. It is probably a better album than last year's acclaimed debut. "The Funeral" still rocks my world, but "Cease To Begin" may get more airplay as a whole.

Best Song: No One's Gonna Love You

"No One's Gonna Love You (live)"

6. Music From The Motion Picture "Once"

My favorite movie this year was "Once", (sorry Transformers.) Glen Hansard of Irish band the Frames and his real life love interest, Czech singer-songwriter Marketa Irglova, star as the unnamed lead characters of this indie-musical and provide the heart of the movie through their songs. UPDATE: Here's Roger Ebert's review of the film. He explains it much better than me.

Best Song: Say It To Me Now

"Say It To Me Now"

5. The National - "Boxer"

I saw the video for "Mistaken For Strangers" late Sunday night on MTV2 and was immediately hooked. The album hadn't been released yet, but I was determined to get my hands on it. I found a leaked copy on the wide wide world of web and fell in love with the album. Most years, an album like this would be an easy choice for #1, but this was a very good year.

Best Song: Mistaken For Strangers

"Mistaken For Strangers (live)"

4. Shout Out Louds - "Our Ill Wills"

Again, I like what those Swedes can do. I always wondered what the Cure might sound like if they were happier, and this is the answer. There is so much to like about this album, percussion, female vocals, soaring choruses. I was fortunate to catch them live opening for Interpol, too bad Liars ruined the vibe in between.

Best Song: Impossible

"Impossible"

3. Bloc Party - "A Weekend In The City"
It was a wonderful year for sophomore albums and this one was the best of the bunch. Absent from most year-end lists, Bloc Party returns with less angular guitar, but bigger, more epic songs, more along the lines of "This Modern Love", the standout track from their debut. This album is better lyrically and musically from "Silent Alarm" and deserves more accolades than it is receiving. However, maybe this album has already received the greatest praise this year, this is Adam Andersen's album of the year, hands down. And this is from a stingy Pearl Jam fanatic that didn't appreciate Bloc Party's debut because of an awkwardly placed "Jump Left."

Best Song: Kreuzberg

"I Still Remember"

2. New Pornographers - "Challengers"

I've always loved the New Pornographers. It's the way that Carl Newman can write a song, the best female voice in music, Neko Case, the eccentricities of Dan Bejar. Each New Pornographers album topped the previous, but I didn't think they could do anything equal to the previous "Twin Cinema." Well, they didn't, but they came close. They tone it down some, but the songs are just as catchy, Neko is still beautiful, and Dan Bejar is still weird. I think this album's position is helped by the wonderful live show they put on in September.

Best Song: Unguided

"Challengers"

1. The Avett Brothers - "Emotionalism"

Those that know me shouldn't be surprised. I love this album and I love this band. They were the best live show of the year and easily the most played album for me. The Avetts are genuine people who don't shy from writing about what they feel, most of the time its love, but there's also heartache, regret, and drinking in their songs. As good as their records song, their live shows are a completely transcendent experience.

Best Song: All My Mistakes

"Paranoia In B Flat Major (live)"

Just To Show I'm Alive...

2007-12-15T15:20:00.000-07:00

One of my all-time favorite songs is "Ceremony", originally by Joy Division, but released as one of the first singles for New Order. The song is melodic, dark, and completely gorgeous. I never tire of it. Well, I just stumbled upon Radiohead recording a version of this and I thought I'd share. I hope you enjoy it, and if you don't, don't tell me because that will end our friendship. Enjoy dammit!

UPDATE: Here's another Radiohead performance doing one of my favorite Smiths songs, "The Headmaster Ritual."

In the meantime....

2007-11-19T16:48:00.000-07:00

I've been missing in action, a casualty of war in a very stressful time of the year. I'm sure I have a lot to report on...the Four Horsemen reunion, LHS Academic Olympiad domination, some cool new music, my innermost thoughts and feelings. I'm still in the middle of it and won't have time to give the above items my full attention. But just so my 4 or so readers know that I'm still alive, here is a fun clip of the Cal Marching Band doing a classic video game themed halftime show. I'm sure you'll enjoy the sounds of Tetris, Zelda, Mortal Kombat, and Super Mario Bros. as much as I did. I love you all and miss you very much.

Crazy/Hot Scale

2007-10-25T20:28:00.000-06:00

You're dating someone, but somehow, they begin exhibiting signs of crazy. How do you know if she's TOO crazy? Well, my good friend Barney Stinson, a fictional character on the underrated TV program, How I Met Your Mother, has come up with a graphical way to tell if the person you're seeing is TOO crazy. As you evaluate their hotness and mental stability, place them on the graph appropriately. They should fall nicely ABOVE the line, not below it. If they fall below the line, then they are TOO crazy to make the relationship work and you should immediately break up with them. The longer you're with them, the worse it will be for you when you drop the axe. Not that I would know, I am more theorist than practitioner when it comes to women.

The Daily Show!

2007-10-25T19:52:00.001-06:00

If you are like me, you enjoy the sweet satire of Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert. You probably enjoyed America: The Book and are currently reading Colbert's I Am America, (And So Can You), most likely a gift from dear friends that know your obsessions. However, if you are not like me, then you don't see them as much as you should because you either don't have the Tivo, or don't have the discipline to watch them four times a week. Well don't fret. You can now watch the Daily Show on their new website in small "youtube like" clips that will allow you to fill in the gaps in your Daily Show education. While the Colbert report is not yet up, there are plans to do so in the near future. Here is one of my favorite clips involving a feud between mini-Kiss tribute bands.

The World Will Miss Lucky Dube

2007-10-19T18:17:00.001-06:00

I just found out that South African reggae star Lucky Dube was killed in an attempted carjacking just outside of Johannesburg. To be honest, I am really shaken up by this. As my faithful readers know, I served a mission in East Africa, where reggae songs made each day enjoyable. While Bob Marley is universally popular, I found that Kenyans and Ugandans had just as much love for the smooth sound of Lucky Dube. Every time I listen to him, I am transported to the mudhuts of Walukuba, Uganda with the people playing bootleg Lucky Dube tapes on battery powered stereos. I think of the slums of Pangani where street vendors sold roasted maize while blasting Lucky Dube. My mission was one of the most important times in my life and is one of the main reasons I came back and became a history teacher. Lucky Dube was the soundtrack of that critical time in my life and will always remind me of Africa. In some ways, this news is like losing a close friend.

Lucky Dube's website had the following message concerning the artist:

South African born but globally revered, Lucky Dube was one of the country’s most toured and beloved artists ever. His music touched millions around the world, primarily through his 22 recorded albums - in Zulu, English and even Afrikaans - many of which have been record breakers with phenomenal sales from around the globe.

As a frontline artist in the reggae genre, Lucky's creativity and inventiveness kept growing. Compelling in his musicianship and intriguing in his lyrical content, Lucky's sonic daring to take his genre to new heights never failed to amaze even the most ardent fans, whilst reigning in new devotees to his magic every day.

Here is a clip of my favorite Lucky Dube song, "Remember Me".

In Neil's Honor

2007-10-16T21:42:00.000-06:00

The comments of the last post were overwhelmingly pro-Diamond, and who can blame us. Neil has entertained billions of fans for many, many years. He's like a musical McDonald's. He came out with a new album a couple of year's ago produced by Rick Rubin that was absolutely fantastic. I hope everyone has heard it by now. Well, in honor of the great Neil Diamond, here is a wonderful Diamond-Brian Wilson collaberation. Favorite line of the song:

"Like a shot in the dark, she was hot, like a spark!"

Neil Diamond & Brian Wilson
"Delirious Love"

Top 5 Concerts

2007-10-14T21:16:00.000-06:00

I've been thinking about my Top 5 concerts for the past week and began to realize something. There are parts of my life I've totally forgotten. As I've tried to make a list of the concerts I've attended, I've been hard pressed to remember years, set lists, and who was with me on a number of shows. Luckily, some bands have archived their tour dates which helped piece together my past like an amnesia patient. I've broken out my box of ticket stubs, which I am now glad I've saved.

I've narrowed down my list to about 20 shows and am now ready to release a Top 5. I just want to thank everybody who's traveled with me to the shows and helped make these moments special. The shows wouldn't have been the same without my good friends. I'd also like to thank the State Fairpark Horticulture building (where it all began for me back in 1990), DV8 (perhaps my favorite venue), Bricks/In The Venue/Club Sound (perhaps my most attended venue), Pollstar (my concert hotline), Graywhale CD (sold tickets to many shows & was helpful for guestlists), and Slim Olson's (a great post concert watering hole).

Before I get to the top 5, I'd like to at least mention several shows that didn't quite make the list, but still need to get mentioned. The Origin/Toad The Wet Sprocket; Morrissey/Smoking Popes; Ben Folds/Neil Hannon; My Morning Jacket/Doves; Get Up Kids/Anniversary/Koufax; Jimmy Eat World; Guster/Owsley; Elbow/Grandaddy; Matthew Sweet; Ani Difranco; the Samples; The Shins; The Decemberists; The Stills. Alright, here goes with the list and a live clip from each performer.

5. Sigur Ros--The Depot--May 6, 2006

Watching this show felt unlike any other I've attended. I felt connected to the crowd and the band in some sort of musical social contract. There was no excessive talking by anyone in the packed venue. It was like we were a crowd with a purpose, or more like musical toddlers that were just mezmorized by the lights and sounds.

4. Devotchka--Ego's--Spring 2005

This was my very first time seeing the band and was only able to convince one friend to attend with me....woof woof! The show started with raised trumpets from within the crowd, a call to arms if you will. The set featured illuminated sousaphone, accordion, theremin, and violin. The crowd was mostly drunk, but I got treated to an amazing show full of the best Southwest/Eastern European music ever produced by a Denver band. I missed the next day of school due to the lateness of the show, but it was worth it and I think my students understood.

3. Avett Brothers--Urban Lounge--Aug. 28, 2007

I know what you're thinking. "Too soon Mr. History Teacher." I admit I haven't had years to place this show in proper context, but I am confident that this one will hold up over time. I don't think I've ever walked out of a show more impressed with a bands vocals than this one. Put in all the broken banjo strings due to the frenetic playing of Scott Avett and the touching lyrical depth of their songs, and you have a top show. I would get on a plane to go see these guys again.

2. Elliott Smith--DV8--Nov. 11, 2000

I saw Elliott Smith three times, including his last performance before his tragic death. While I was tempted to put his last show, his 2000 show was clearly Smith at his peak. He had just released Figure 8 and was touring with a solid band that could recreate the album's songs. He seemed as happy as ever and joked frequently with the crowd. Two songs highlighted this show for me; the haunting "Everything Means Nothing To Me", and the encore BOC cover, "Don't Fear The Reaper." I miss Elliott.

1. U2--Delta Center--Nov 9, 2001

I could have put any one of the U2 shows I've seen here, but this one probably means the most. Not to sound like Rudy Giuliani, but this was after 9/11 and we (the Band and the crowd) certainly had that hanging over our heads. In addition, this was my first year as a high school history teacher, and was really feeling the weight of that job. Looking back, this was clearly an important show for me at that time in my life.

Feel free to post your top 5 shows in the comments...

Mandy Moore Sings With Her Hands

2007-10-07T23:02:00.000-06:00

I know this because I saw it with my own eyes. She can't keep her hands still while she sings. Saturday night at the Avalon Theater, Mandy treated a packed house to her mediocre music, but was darn cute doing it. Now, now. I didn't make the drive to SLC just for Mandy (but if Mandy ever reads this, then yes i did.) We were down in SLC for the X96 Big Ass Show, featuring Jimmy Eat World, Social Distortion, Sum 41 and others. We got cheap tickets through the Graywhale and went down primarily for the Jimmy Eat World. They went through an excellent set of 15 or so songs and reminded me why I love them. Social D was great and closed with "Ring of Fire". It was like being 16 all over again. As for Mandy, I knew she was playing a few hours later and that Jon Tueller had the Graywhale connections that could get me on the guest list. To me, this was a no-brainer. If you can see Mandy Moore for free, you go see Mandy Moore.

The Mandy Moore crowd was very odd. Some parents with kids (which made foul-mouthed opener Rachael Yamagata a little awkward), sweet dudes indulging their girlfriends, and people like me just wondering what it was all about. Most of Mandy's set was from her most recent album and seemed very glossy and unimaginative. I know Mandy enjoys good music, but she can't seem to produce it herself. She seems to sincerely want to be a viable musical artist, but seems to lack confidence and perhaps the right inspiration. I love Mandy, but wasn't too impressed until the last three songs, a cover of Rhianna's "Umbrella", her 1999 hit "Candy", and "Big Shot", originally performed by the great, but uncool, Billy Joel. "Umbrella" is a song that is foolproof and is always a pleasure to hear. "Candy" was a joyous sing-along, with Mandy acting embarrassed that this is why she's famous. "Big Shot" just plain rocked! She sneered the chorus as if she were directly singing to some former lover, maybe imagining Zach Braff as the words dripped from her lips. Bottom line, it was totally worth the time and effort to be there.

Now, does Mandy crack the top 5 in my all-time favorite concerts list? We'll find out when I release my top 5 favorite concerts list.

New Sigur Ros DVD

2007-10-04T19:20:00.001-06:00

This concert/documentary of one of my favorite bands will be out next month. I urge all my cool readers to check it out.

Aereogramme - Barriers

2007-09-19T21:00:00.001-06:00

It's been a while since I've put anything up...shared my feelings and all. School is in full swing and my time is limited. So for now, I share this wonderful video of a wonderful song.

The Avett Brothers-Talk on Indolence

2007-08-30T01:06:00.001-06:00

I just experienced their live show and was blown away. I'll probably blog more later, but for my California friends...enjoy and find a way to see them.

Upcoming Shows

2007-08-21T12:04:00.000-06:00

Many quality shows will be in Salt Lake City this fall. Utah Melanie is welcome to attend as many shows with me as possible. The shows listed in boldface are almost certain for me, the other shows are game-time decisions.

DAY ARTISTS VENUE
Thur 8/23 Calexico/ French Kicks Gallivan Center (Free Show)
Tues 8/28 Avett Brothers Urban Lounge
Tues 9/04 As Tall As Lions/ Mae Avalon
Fri 9/07 Def Leppard/Foreigner/Styx USANA Amphitheatre
Sat 9/08 Dashboard Confessional/Toad The Wet Sprocket Thanksgiving Point
Sat 9/08 Lucky Dube Harry O’s
Wed 9/12 Okkervil River/Damien Jurado Kilby Court
Sat 9/15 Editors Club Sound/In The Venue
Wed 9/19 Guster McKay Events Center
Tues 9/25 New Pornographers/ The Awkward Stage The Depot
Wed 9/26 The Arcade Fire Thanksgiving Point
Thur 10/04 The Cure E Center
Sat 10/06 Jimmy Eat World/Social Distortion Salt Palace; Mandy Moore The Avalon
Mon 10/08 The Twilight Sad Kilby Court
Mon 10/15 Interpol (FHE) In The Venue
Sat 10/27 Hannah Montana (for my niece) EnergySolutions Center
Fri 11/02 Regina Spektor In The Venue
Fri 11/16 Of Montreal In The Venue

The End Is Near...

2007-08-20T16:36:00.000-06:00

I have had a difficult time providing content to my three readers since the inception of this blog. This largely stems from my consistent life that lacks the sensational details that rival a Lohan or someone less stable. As I get ready for the new school year, I suppose I should give an accounting of my summer before I get into the academic hustle and bustle.

My summer could be seen as one of consumption, primarily books, music, dvds, and movies. Here is a run-down of what I've enjoyed...

Books-- mainly non-fiction history; A Hideous Monster of the Mind; Slavery & Politics in the Early American Republic; Bowling Alone; I've also re-read many of my Chuck Klosterman books. I am anxiously waiting for Stephen Colbert's new book and may try to get into the Marvel Comics Civil War series. I am very intrigued by the superhero universe taking up political arguments and the death of Captain America.

Music-- Some of my favorites this year have come from Bloc Party, Editors, the New Pornographers, Ryan Adams, the National, Mew, Elvis Perkins, that super catchy Rihanna single Umbrella, Voxtrot, indie rock covers compilations "Bridging The Distance" and "Guilt By Association", a cappella, Beirut, DeVotchka, newly released Elliott Smith vault tapes, Of Montreal, the Twilight Sad, and probably a few others I am leaving out.

But,

There are two musical items I will highlight...

1. The Avett Brothers--my favorite album of the year come from these North Carolinian brothers take on traditional blue-grass/folk meshed with indie and punk sensibilities. The Washington Post called them "post civil-war modern rock". They have numerous clips on YouTube to check out...if you enjoy that alt-country vibe, you should like them. To Salt Lake readers, the Avett's will be performing 8/28 at the Urban Lounge. I will be in attendance.

2. U2start.com-- alright, I've always been a fan of Dublin's favorite sons, but I am in the middle of a U2 renaissance due to this website, a tip from Aaron Andersen. The focus of this site is to allow fans to download just about any U2 concert ever preformed. All sorts of bootleg shows are archived and is completely searchable for your convenience. You want a transcendent version of "Where The Streets Have No Name"? Try the 12-19-87 show from ASU's Sun Devil stadium. How about Bono trying to call the President Of The United States from the Zoo TV tour? Try the 08-16-92 show from D.C.'s RFK Stadium. You get the picture. I personally recommend all four Point Depot shows in Dublin from 12-26-89 to 12-31-89, U2 at its absolute best.

DVDs-- The last few years I've used the summertime to watch TV on DVD. Last year I watched the 5 seasons of Alias, and finally saw why so many people love Jennifer Garner. This summer I watched the first two seasons of Weeds, the critically acclaimed showtime dramedy that focuses on a suburban mother (Mary-Louise Parker) who takes up pot dealing to support her family after the death of her husband. Kevin Nealon adds the comedy and Parker is my new crush (I should probably reveal my new Top 5 later...).

The other program I am going through is The West Wing. I admit to never seeing an episode before this summer. I've enjoyed Aaron Sorkin before with the underrated SportsNight, and loved Studio 60 before NBC pulled the plug. I have taught U.S. History for 6 years now and feel like know something about the government and politics. Essentially, everything was put in place for me to watch this show. I shelled out the money to Amazon for the complete series. It's well worth the $182 just for the escapism of watching an alternate universe with a president I just love....(I especially love it when President Bartlett speaks Latin. Try that Bush!) I am through most of season 3 and was delighted to find my new girlfriend, Mary-Louise Parker, making a series of guest appearances as the feminist love interest of the Anti-Rove Deputy Chief of Staff Joshua Lyman.

Movies-- I spent many of my summer afternoons at the local movie theater. As everyone I knew worked I enjoyed the hot summer films and the discounted matinee price. My favorite might have been Transformers. I got goosebumps at the sound of Optimus Prime, the voice of my moral compass from 1985.

I can't say I saw anything mind blowing. I didn't like the new Pirates of the Caribbean. Spiderman 3 was just OK. The Harry Potter film was better than I expected. I am still waiting to see Superbad, but I have a feeling I will like it, just for the kid known as McLovin'.

It's now back to my syllabus and first week materials. The responsible Mr. Soffe needs to return and the lazy, summer Soffe must go away. But I'm sure he'll be back next summer.

Rihanna - Umbrella (Acoustic)

2007-08-15T23:49:00.001-06:00

I dedicate this song to my personal umbrella, Mel Dowg! More blog to come soon....

A Cappella

2007-07-24T00:07:00.001-06:00

Today was a day to listen to a cappella music. Don't misunderstand me! The a cappella groups that seemed to saturate my college experience at USU hold no attraction to me. However, I've always appreciated sugary harmonies on songs I enjoy. My good friend Aaron Andersen has sung the praises of good East Coast a cappella at elite academic institutions and provided me with a wonderful version of Jimmy Eat World's "For Me This Is Heaven", done by U of Texas group the Ransom Notes. I also enjoyed the a cappella flavor in the Vince Vaughn-Jennifer Aniston vehicle, The Break Up. So as I was surfing the wide wide world of web after my history conference in my dull and boaring Hampton Inn motel room, I stumbled accross a link to a novelty album of indie rockers performing "guilty pleasures". Petra Haden, daughter of great jazz bassist Charlie Haden, does this wonderful a cappella version of Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'", which by the way has never ever been a guilty pleasure of mine. I listen to it with pride. After that I head over to youtube and discover about ten different a cappella groups performing the Journey standard, which I now believe will be experienced by humans hundreds of years from now as classic art. By the way, the best youtube version is by the UNC Clefhangers. I mean the soloist actually feels he is Steve Perry. Anyways, I believe the point of this post is to declare that I went over the cliff and submerged myself in a cappella. Do I now like Voice Mail? Hells no!

UNC Clefhangers- Don't Stop Believing

2007-07-24T00:02:00.001-06:00