The Seven Song Itch - Slanky Song Selections

This selection of songs is Trip-hop with subtle tones of Chill-Out – these are late night intimate songs.  This music is my dedication to all the late night workers that haven’t forgotten that they are sensual beings.  I’ve had odd jobs for many years and one of them was working overnights at a motel out in the middle of nowhere.  There were a few gals from a strip club that would check in from time to time because you never strip in your hometown, and gas money for driving home was more than staying at a motel.  These songs convey an image of a private dance in a back room at four-thirty in the morning.  It’s almost time to go home, but a client has retained a lady for the evening.  She’s in the mood for something sensual and slow, making him suffer with every bump and grind.  He’s dressed in a tux, but has his bow tie undone, chain-smoking unfiltered camels, drinking single malt, and gazing at her beauty.  She’s a million miles away in her mind, but keeps her eyes on him, making him watch.  There is still vitality in her eyes, though some of the other girls at the club are dead inside.  The room is illuminated with subtle tones of electric blue, which gives her skin a soft glow, but her eyes pierce the darkness.  As the performance ends, they exchange glances; he gets up and offers her his coat as they exit the back door where his car is parked.  Standing in the alley, he gives her his last cigarette, she cups the flame around the lighter and glides her fingers down his wrist, taking the lighter.  They drive off to the diner just down the street as the sun begins to rise.

Playlist of Slanky SongSelections

1. Portishead - “Glory Box”(1995)

Formed in 1991, this down tempo trip-hop band stormed England with their chilled out vibe and innovative arrangements.  This song may not be a feminist manifesto, but it does give perspective of a temptress that wants to be loved as a woman and not an object of lust.  This video is taken from the phenomenal show they did in 1997 at the historic Roseland Theater in New York and is one of my all time live concerts.  Beth Gibbons (vocals) chain-smokes her way though several sultry songs and conveys strength in fragile beauty.

2. Tricky – “Hell Is Around The Corner”(1995)

This song samples Portishead, from their album “Dummy,” which features the song “Glory Box.”  The genesis of Tricky (Real Name: Adrian Nicholas Matthews) stems from hanging out with a group called The Wild Bunch, which would eventually evolve into the group Massive Attack.  Tricky rapped on their first album “Blue Lines”(1991) and eventually embarked on his own solo career.  He is noted as being one of the initial innovators of the Trip-Hop sound.

3. Sneaker Pimps - “Post Modern Sleaze”(1996)

This band was named after an article that ran in the Beastie Boys publication Grand Royal magazine about a guy they hired to track down classic sneakers.  This group, however, is comprised of Liam Howe and Chris Corner, who then recruited Kelli Dayton (formerly of Lumieres, now recording under the name Kelli Ali) for vocal duties.  Kelli was dismissed from the group after the promotional tour of their debut album, “Becoming X,” which is the origin of this track.  In the process of recording their second album, Chris took over the vocal duties, though in my opinion, I think they should have kept Kelli.  Their music is still good, but it’s just different.  This album is a must have for this genre as it has many memorable songs, including “6 Underground.”

4. Hooverphonic – “2Wicky”(1996)

This is a Belgian rock group that formed in 1995 and took up the trip-hop sound though they incorporate alternative, electronica, electropop, rock, and a mixture of genres.  This has a celestial sound and it feels like you are on a space ship in zero gravity.  I like the duality of the lyrics and how they incorporate science and sensuality.  As with many bands of this genre, the lead singer Geike Arnaert has left the band to purse a solo career.

5. Massive Attack – “Angel”(1998)

The group is comprised of duo Robert "3D" Del Naja and Grant "Daddy G" Marshall, and work with co-producers, as well as various session musicians and guest vocalists.  They formed in Bristol as The Wild Bunch in the mid-1980s and are one of the first homegrown soundsystems in the UK.  During the recording of their album “Blue Lines,” Geoff Barrow, who worked as a trainee tape operator at Bristol's Coach House studio, eventually went on to form the group Portishead.  I love how several groups developed out of a handful of creative individuals.

6. Emiliana Torrini - “Fingertips”(1999)

This song is taken from the album, “Love in the time of Science,” and has a slew of producers including: Roland Orzabal (Tears For Fears), Alan Griffiths (Apartment), Eg White (Adele, Duffy, Will Young and James Morrison), Siggi Baldursson (Sugarcubes, Þeyr, KUKL, Headpump, Bradley Fish and the Reptile Palace Orchestra) and Mark Abis (solo work).  Emiliana is from Iceland and really embraces the chill-out vibe on this record.  She took the title of this release from Gabriel García Márquez' 1985 novel “Love in the Time of Cholera.” There’s a rumor that this song is about female masturbation, but it could also be about Quantum Physics and Metaphysics.  Everything that exists is vibrational energy and that everything is connected to that source energy, which is infinite love and consciousness.  You be the judge.

7. Zero 7 - “In the Waiting Line”(2001)

Here is another duo that retains different vocalists for their songs.  Henry Binns and Sam Hardaker formed the group in 1997 and featured vocalists Sia Furler (on tracks "Destiny" and "Distractions"), Mozez (on "I Have Seen", "Simple Things" and "This World") and Sophie Barker (on "Destiny", "In the Waiting Line" and "Spinning") on their debut record, “Simple Things.”  Barker occasionally performs with the group, but has a solo with several albums under her belt.  This song, is one of my all time favorites.

Bonus Videos:

Sneaker Pimps - “Six Underground”(1996)

There are two versions of this song, I think the remix, which is this video, is the greater of the two.

Train - “Mississippi”(2001)

This is the song, from my little story, that would be playing on the radio after the strip club has closed down and they are off to a dinner for a bite to eat.

8mm - “Stunning”(2006)

I like the play back and forth in what seems to be a steamy moment between a couple infatuated with each other.  *Goes off to smoke a cigarette.*

The Seven Song Itch - Teen Angst Bullshit

I grew up on John Hughes movies, loved them, but he wasn’t saying anything new; high school is a microcosm of the ‘real world’—whatever that is.  Then another filmmaker released “Heathers” (1989) and I realized that social cliques don’t have to be the ‘end-all-be-all’ of my existence.  Winona Ryder played “Veronica” and was part of the school’s strongest clique – ‘The Heathers.’  This movie has a ton of great quotes, but I want to focus on one of her monologues, which states, “Dear Diary, my teen angst bullshit has a body count!” No, I didn’t want anyone to die in my high school, but the movie was a great commentary on how ridiculous things can get when you are a teenager.  For all practical purposes, if you survive high school, the rest of your life is simpler by comparison, but not any easier.  With bullying and intolerance on the rise (Check out the current movie “Bully”), the problems that plague an average teenager on a daily basis can be a bit daunting.  Sometimes a song can give you perspective in your situation.  There is nothing new, or innovative, about these songs, but they do convey the classic story of how life can suck when you think you have it figured out.  Yeah, there are a lot of Punk Rock Songs that deal with this issue, but I wanted a bit of levity with my angst.  These songs border on EMO, but we’re not going to go there…yet.  Eskimo!

 

P.S. This list is dedicated to the memory of Dick Clark—the world’s oldest Teenager. May his legacy live on in the youth of today!  Playlist for Teen AngstBullshit

1. Wheatus - “Teenage Dirtbag”(2000)

I swear this video is a depiction of my high school experience; it has the teen angst bullshit quality to it.  I have finally realized something about high school—no one has it easy. Even if you are popular there are always parts of you life that are undesirable.  I’d like to think that I was one of those parts that made people feel awkward in high school, because I was a punk before punk was cool.  It didn’t bother me that they didn’t want to hang around with me, because honestly, I didn’t want to hang around with them.  Eventually, curiosity gets the best of everyone and discussions of my blue spiky hair and leather jacket got a dialogue going.  I’m not saying that I became friends with other cliques, but some of the rock music buttons that I was wearing on my jacket were some of the same bands that other people were listening to at the time.  You can find common ground in any situation; you just have to be open to the possibility.

2. Live on Release - "I'm Afraid of Britney Spears" (2001)

This song is from the soundtrack of “Dude, Where’s My Car?” Though I like a good Top-40 song, this one is a great commentary on popular culture.  Mostly, high school is all about fitting in to a particular group, but in reality, it’s so much easier to just be yourself.  It’s really easy to jump on the bandwagon and define yourself by the music you listen to, but you are your own story.  It’s okay to try new things, and never be afraid of liking what you like.  Heck, I like the bands that Live On Release comment about in this song.  To me, music is all-good, but remember not to get caught up in the trends of the day, or to take an artist too seriously. This band is no longer around, but each of the members has moved on and continues to create great music.  One person in particular, Britt Black, went on to play guitar with Bif Naked, and then evolved into her own solo career.

3. Simple Plan - “I'm Just A Kid”(2002)

This is a song from the movie, “The New Kid,” and the music video has some great cameo appearances by the actors from that movie.  The video is an over-the-top dramatization of some unfortunate circumstances a teenager goes though when trying to understand his place in the pecking order of life.  What he doesn’t realize is that a lot of other people feel the same way about their life, and he doesn’t need to suffer alone.  Sometimes you have to just put yourself out there and have faith that you’ll get the girl at the end of the story…sometimes.

4. Fountains Of Wayne - “Stacy's Mom”(2003)

Let your cougars roar! This song has the feel of  “Just What I Needed” by The Cars, and pays homage to the movie, “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”(1982).  Yeah, I was fascinated with an adult female figure (no pun intended) growing up, but it never went anywhere.  I think it’s healthy to look, but not touch, in these situations.  Parents have a hard time (again, no pun intended) discussing sex with their kids and having an outlet to explore your feelings is only natural—just don’t let it become an obsession.  With stories of older instructors (both male and female) embracing their youthful students (both male and female) plaguing the news, I can’t help but think that we’ve all gotten the wrong message about intimacy.  You can be inspired by someone, who is an authority figure, but don’t cross the line, because it can have terrible consequences.

5. Bowling For Soup - “High School Never Ends”(2006)

Oh my Lord, this is true, but you don’t have to let cliques get you down.  A few years ago, I attended my high school reunion and I was fascinated by how I just slipped back into some arbitrary pecking order when I walked into the room.  As the evening went on, I realized that a lot of the people, whom I had grown up with, were more than the clique that they had aligned themselves with back then.  It’s really easy to slip back into old routines, but just because we were one thing back then, does not mean that we are the same person now.  Life gives you a myriad of experiences and it’s up to you to learn from them.  I have moved on, and you can too.

6. The Actual - “This Is The Worst Day Of My Life”(2007)

I love the misery loves company concept here.  Sometimes a situation can seem contradictory in your reaction to angst, but it’s all-good.  I’m not sure if this is a please-feel-sorry-for-me song or a commiseration manifesto.  In any case, you don’t have to be alone in your angst; you can invite a bunch of people over and have a pity party.  Maybe I should just listen to some EMO music and in comparison my life will seem much much better.  Check out an interview that I did with Max from the band back in 2007.  Click here for the interview.

7. Hey Monday - “How You Love Me Now”(2009)

I love the spunky nature of this band.  I saw them a few years ago under the guise of being stealth chaperone for my friend’s daughter—it was her first concert.  I wish that I had a cool uncle to take me to a rock show when I was growing up, but alas, I didn’t.  During the concert, I remembered this song and its commentary on how stupid lust can make us.  Yeah, we’re all horny teenagers, but there are consequences for our actions.  It’s not until later on in life that we discover the difference between lust and love, but then again, some people never realize the concept.  Oh well, there is enough drama to go around.  Besides, I met a few cool single mom’s that were at this concert for the same reason that I was, and it was a great bonding experience.

Bonus Video: Jimmy Eat World - “The Middle” (2001)

I wanted to include this song, because there is hope out there.  “It just takes some time,” to work though everything.  Sometimes it’s hard to gain perspective when you are in the middle of some teen angst bullshit, but remember, this too shall pass and that life is a roller coaster—it has it up’s as well as it’s downs.  Just how cliché am I going to get?

The Seven Song Itch - Rock Lifestyle Anthems

Some of these songs are a warning; some are a way of life.  Rock Lifestyle Anthems are the songs that I return to when I want to get back on the road.  I have some experience touring with bands and whatever is bothering you in real life, gets magnified by ten when you lock someone in a bus/van for extended periods of time.  Things can get crazy out there, but it’s not what you would think.  Sure, there can be drugs and groupies and sold out shows, but there is also bad food, bad venues and broken vehicles.  When you are on the road, you have to live in the moment and yet, remember why you are doing all of this.  When I was working on contract riders for artists, I found that some of the requests were ridiculous, but in time all of them made sense—even no green M&M’s in a bowl (Van Halen Reference: RE guitar setup).  These ‘requirements’ are meant to take some of the stress off of the artist so that they can give a great show.  The audience doesn’t care if you didn’t specify that the showering facilities at the venue must include hot water, or that you have had pizza everyday for a month.  Most of the time these requests are things that remind you of home: like pop-tarts and a specific brand of beer.  So sit back and enjoy the ride because every day is a winding road, but know that all roads lead home.

Playlist for Rock LifestyleAnthems

1. Grand Funk Railroad-“We’re an American Band”(1973)

Several years ago, I ran into a tour manager that legitimized the story of “Sweet Sweet Connie” mentioned in this song.  Though I cannot give you direct details, let’s just say that it’s good to be on tour in the Midwest.  Life on the road can have its bumps, but it can also have its grinds.  The GTO’s rule, and I’m not talking about the band or the car.

2 Bob Seger-“Turn The Page”(1973)

Every time I hear this song I picture Bob sitting back stage alone with a bottle of bourbon debating if he has one more show left in him.  I’m not saying that he’s an alcoholic, but this song has the feel of ‘is this all worth it.’  Most bands have this feeling at one point or another when the days blend into each other and you can’t remember when you slept in your own bed.

3. Bad Company-“Shooting Star”(1975)

This has always been my benchmark when deciding to work with a band.  Talent will take you far, but drugs and alcohol will make it a quick trip.  I can’t even begin to list all of the artists that have been lost prematurely due to the stresses of being famous.  You may start out with good intentions, but somewhere along the way the demands of popularity can destroy a person.  Hey, I’m not preaching here, I’ve had my share of wild times, but I knew how to leave the party, and not in a pine box.

4. AC/DC-“Shoot To Thrill”(1980)

I’m not sure if this song is bragging or complaining, but It’s AC/DC, so it really doesn’t matter.  I got to see them a few years back and they can still tear it up, even though most of the members are in their sixties.  This song is one of their best from their phenomenal album “Back In Black”(1980).  This is what Rock N’ Roll is all about, and how to pick up chicks.

5. Foreigner-“Jukebox Hero”(1981)

This is just a great song that should start every Foreigner concert.  I’ve been to a few shows in my life and this song has the feel of pre-concert excitement.  By the time it kicks into full gear I am ready to be rocked.

6. Tom Petty-“Into The Great Wide Open”(1991)

This is a great parable.  This song feels like an updated version of “Shooting Star,” by Bad Company. I guess each generation needs to hear about the highs and lows of being famous.

7. Bif Naked-“Back In The Day”(2004)

I’ve always loved Bif Naked.  She’s the spunky gal from Canada that pays her dues continually.  She’s mainstream and still has her Indy roots.  This song has a special place in my heart because the lyrics ring true and give hope to the bands that are just starting out.  Keep the faith, enjoy the ride, and remember why you are doing all of this.  Music!

The Seven Song Itch - African-American Choral Ensemble

The African-American Choral Ensemble (ACE) was a big part of my life while I was studying at Indiana University.  Being a member of this ensemble exposed me to several genres of music that I had not encountered in my previous years of church and show choirs.  Among spirituals and formally composed works, I was introduced to contemporary gospel, and my life has not been the same since.  Though most of the songs in this list are not technically contemporary, most of them are over twenty years old; they were a part of my education.  Dr. James E. Mumford (Doc), director of the ensemble at the time, included many of these songs in our repertoire and I cannot thank him enough for these songs.  My appreciation for music, all music, stems from ACE’s theme song (Music by Undine Smith Moore and Lyrics by Michelangelo Buonarroti), which states, “True art is made noble and religious by the mind producing it.  For those who feel it, nothing makes the soul so religious and pure as the endeavor to create something perfect. For God is perfection. And whoever strives after perfection is striving after God.”  In honor of the Easter holiday, I would like to take you all to ‘church’ to remember that there are greater things in this world that have yet to be realized.

I’ve included a few more songs from the ensemble for this Playlist of the African-AmericanChoral Ensemble

1. The Winans – “Breaking of Day”(1987)

Though the song, “Millions” (1987) is my favorite from this group, I feel like I need something more upbeat—and this one delivers.  This song is taken from their live album at New York City’s Carnegie Hall.  ACE has three small groups: Sojourner (six women), Soul-ACE (six men), and God’s Progress (three men and three women), which performed individually in addition to their ensemble duties.  I have always wanted to be a part of Soul-ACE, but never had the discipline it takes to sing these songs with the greatness they deserve.  There is a special place in my heart for these distinguished men.  They bring the good news and take names.

2. Take Six – “Mary”(1990)

Since I wasn’t in Soul-ACE, I parleyed my enthusiasm for ACE into becoming one of the tech crew.  I toured with all three ensembles (ACE, African-American Dance Company and The IU Soul Review) while working at the African-American Arts Institute but ACE was my family.  There were hours upon hours of traveling in the tech van and each of us would bring our favorite music to listen to on the trip.  Needless to say, my contributions were ‘interesting’, but my song selections were taken in with an open heart and mind.  One trip, Take Six was placed into the cassette player and from that point on this group’s music became our travel soundtrack. This is another song that Soul-ACE performed, and you better bet your sweet bippy that they did a great job.

3. The Clark Sisters “I’m Encouraged” (1982)

This is from the Clark Sisters 1982 album, “Sincerely.”  This song is my favorite when performed by one of our small groups: Sojourner.  These ladies know how to bend notes and ears to the calling of God.  Just just hearing a few notes from this song would wash any problem away.  It’s profound how a simple song can change someone’s life.  It continues to be powerful to this day.

4. The Cast of the Gospel At Colonus – “How Shall I see you though my tears?” (1985)

Okay, this song has a lot of history, so pay attention.  Experimental-theatre director Lee Breuer adapted the Sophocles's tragedy, “Oedipus at Colonus,” but sets the story in a Black Pentecostal Church.  If that’s not strange enough, a single individual, as well as a small choral group, portrays the character Oedipus.  For years ACE flirted with the idea of producing this show, and eventually did after I left IU.  I can’t think of a better show for ACE than this one.

5. Richard Smallwood-“In This House”(1988)

Doc always said, that you don’t have to do run’s of vocal notes to make a song special or sacred (paraphrasing here).  Although, Sojourner’s version of this song really brings down the house, this version is a testament of how great music can be felt on an international level.  I give mad props to this group and its soloist for doing such an amazing song.

6. Kirk Franklin – “Why We Sing”(1992)

This is a great song for me because sometimes I forget why I am doing something.  This isn’t to say that I am lost, but sometimes questions come up and I don’t have answers.  Being in ACE helped provide me with some of the answers because it is more than just a choir; it is a family.  I engaged in countless conversations with many different people about their beliefs and why they sang.  Doc did more than just teach us harmony, he taught us how to live in it.

7. Rev. Milton Brunson- “My Mind Is Made Up”(1991/1992)

Sometimes you just have to make your mind up and do what’s right for you.  You can choose to be sad and wallow in your problems or you can find happiness.  The way you perceive a specific situation is determined by your frame of mind. If your mind and thoughts are positive, you will always be in a position to seize the opportunities that are before you.

Bonus Video: Sojourner (AACE) sings “Balm in Gilead”

This is an outtake of a Sojourner alumni gathering, kicking it old school.  I am so glad that someone got this on video!  They sound angelic as ever.

The Seven Song Itch – Riot Grrrl Bands

I know this may seem contradictory, but I prefer not to classify an artists into a specific categories; it’s like making blanket statements about people.  I like to take in a artist individually and discover their own greatness.  The difficulty comes when trying to convey the aspects of a artist to someone else.  Some things I like in some bands, I find distasteful in others.  My criteria may seem contradictory, but I believe that each artist needs to be taken into context of their own esthetic.  This may be over-thinking it a bit, but when I say that my two favorite artists are Skinny Puppy and Amy Grant, I get a lot of strange looks.  The one thing that they both have in common is that they seek the truth in their music.  So in discussing music with others, I eventually get to the point where I talk about genres of music.  Just because two people like Grunge music, doesn’t mean that they are talking about the same thing.  So, when I refer to Riot Grrrl Bands, know that it is not meant to be an all encompassing group of groups.  The problem is that there are so many sub-genres to discuss that you end up talking about the music instead of listening to it, which I think is a sin.  Furthermore, these sub-genres are basically marketing terms between record labels and music critics, which I have mixed feelings about.  I like these bands, and usually listen to them in the same setting, so I agree with the term, if only to satisfy my craving for female fronted bands from the 1990s that kick ass and take names, regardless of social and political agenda.  So in summary, there are Grunge, Foxcore, Punk, Metal, Indy, and Pop genres that weave in and out of this music.

Playlist for Riot Grrrl Bands

1. L7 - “Pretend We're Dead”(1992)

It’s no secret that I like female fronted bands, but after The Runnaways, The Go Go’s, and The Bangles hit the scene; I was hungry for a heaver sound.  L7’s “Bricks are Heavy” is essential for any rocker gal enthusiast.  The label that L7 gets stuck with is Grunge, but they developed out of the LA Metal scene in the late eighties.  Their sound is wild and loud and embodies the whole rock and roll esthetic of sex, drugs and rock and roll.  This is the band you party with and hope you survive the ordeal. Squares need not apply.

2. Bikini Kill - “Rebel Girl”(1993)

This band is widely considered to be the pioneer of the riot grrrl movement, and was notorious for its radical feminist lyrics and fiery performances.  Kathleen Hanna began the nineties fronting this band, but by the end of the decade in another band Le Tigre, which has a more new wave sound, but still edgy.  Kathleen continues her musical journey with her new band, The Julie Ruin, which is recording their first album.

3. Hole - “Miss World”(1994)

Yet another band associated with the Grunge movement, but Hole is more than just heavy guitars and screeching vocals.  Courtney Love keeps the rawness alive in her songs and cuts though the bullshit in life.  This chick is dangerous, and I wouldn’t want to be around her when she’s mad, but I believe in her success regardless of her connection to the band Nirvana.  Her angry anthems have lead a new generation into battle that takes no prisoners.

4. Garbage - “Vow”(1995)

Though technically they are an Indy alternative band, Garbage was intended to be a side project of Butch Vig (The man who produced Nirvana’s “Nevermind” album).  After a few false starts, the band finally got it together and minted a slew of hits throughout the Nineties.  Rumor has it, that they are hard at work on their next album due out in May of 2012—I can’t wait.  This was Shirley Manson’s first foray into songwriting.  I think she did a good job.

5. Veruca Salt - “Volcano Girls” (1997)

Chicago’s very own Veruca Salt is named after a character from the children’s book “Charley and the Chocolate Factory.”  This volatile group, hit the scene a few years previous with their single “Seether,”(1994) which prompted the question, what is a Seether?  Well, if you listen to this song, you may get the answer, but then again, maybe not.  The group pay homage to the fab four with their album title “Eight Arms To Hold You,” which was the working title of The Beatles 1965 film “Help.”

6. The Donnas - “Take It Off”(2002)

This was the band’s major breakthrough, though many Donnaholics (their loyal fan base) witnessed their birth back 1993.  Well, technically, each ‘Donna’ was born in 1979—the rock and roll came a little later.  Their party sound is akin to seventies rock as well as eighties glam.  They do really good covers of Kiss songs, though they can tear it up with their own music.  This band is a testament to DIY girls across the land.  Just like their godfathers the Ramones, the Donnas didn’t get mainstream airplay till late into their career, and even then, it was mostly college and alternative rock radio.  These four are a tight knit group that blazes a trail of rock and roll reality that other girls can follow.  I swear that Allison Robertson (Guitar) is the bastard child of Angus Young and Joan Jett.

7. The Dollyrots-“Because I’m Awesome”(2007)

And we’ve come full circle, in a way.  The Dollyrots signed to Joan Jett’s Blackheart Records in 2006 and continue on the tradition of Riot Grrrl bands.  They incorporate many of the styles listed above, but have their own fresh sound.  Maybe it’s because they are ‘Naturally deodorized.’ Whatever the case, this song is a great commentary on reality based talent competitions.  They prove what I’ve always believed, keep at it, don’t let the crowd sway you, and get your riot on!

Bonus Video: Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit

After all of that North West influence Grunge music, I figured that I needed a Nirvana break.  Here is the band that started the riot, well…depending upon who you ask and what genre.

 

List of Riot Grrrl Acts

7 Year Bitch, Adickdid,  Autoclave,  Babes in Toyland,  Bangs,  Bellies,  Bette Davis and the Balconettes,  Bikini Kill,  Bitchslap,  Blood Sausage,  Bratmobile,  Brilliant Colors,  Broken Water,  Brothers,  Budget Girls,  Bulimia,  Cadallaca,  Calamity Jane,  Candy Panic Attack,  Canopy,  Casual Dots,  Chaps,  Cheesecake,  Cold Cold Hearts,  Coping Saw,  Corey Orbison,  Courtney Love (band),  Death of the Elephant,  Delta Dart,  Dickless,  Dominatrix,  Drunk Granny,  Emily's Sassy Lime,  Erase Errata,  Excuse 17,  Fever Fever,  Fifth Column,  Finally Punk,  Frantic Spiders,  Free Kitten,  Frightwig,  Golden Starlet,  Gossip,  Gretel's Revenge,  Growing Up Skipper,  Harum Scarum,  Heavens to Betsy,  Heartless Martin,  Hello Cuca,  Hole,  Hooker,  Huggy Bear,  Husbands 'n' Knives,  Jack Off Jill,  Jesus and His Judgemental Father,  Julie Ruin,  Kaos Klitoriano,  Kids Love Lies,  L7,  Le Tigre,  Linus,  Lolita Storm,  Lucid Nation,  Lunachicks,  Lungleg,  Mambo Taxi,  Manic Coughh,  Matrimony,  Mecca Normal,  Meltdown,  Menstruação Anarquika,  Mika Miko,  Modern Reveries,  New Bloods,  Pagan Holiday,  Panty Raid,  Partyline,  Party Weirdo,  Pens,  Petty Crime,  Phantom Pregnancies,  Pussycat Trash,  Quix*o*tic,  Raoul,  Red Aunts,  Rough Kittens,  Scrawl,  Shoplifting,  Shotgun Won,  Shrag,  Sister George,  Skinned Teen,  Skinny Girl Diet,  Slant 6,  Sleater-Kinney,  Spider and the Webs,  Spitboy,  Sta-Prest,  Suture,  Swan Island,  Tattle Tale,  Team Dresch,  The Brownies,  The Butchies,  The Coathangers,  The Element of Crime,  The Ethical Debating Society,  The Fakes,  The Frumpies,  The Gits,  The Quails,  The Need,  The Scissor Girls,  The Shondes,  Third Sex,  TPM,  Trash Kit,  Tribe 8,  Valerie,  Vile Vile Creatures,  Violet Violet,  Viva Knievel,  Voodoo Queens,  Weird Menace,  Wetdog,  White Lung,  Wild Flag,  Witchknot,  Witches Of Oz, and Woolf

The Seven Song Itch - Soul Searching Songs

In the midst of trying to accomplish something in life, I wonder if all of the effort I’m going though is worth the outcome?  Should I give up on the long-term objective and settle for the short-term goal?  Settling into something is not the same as settling down.  The latter implies that all of the peaks have been passed and you are on the windward side of the mountain.  But what really is settling down?  Is it giving up on goals, hopes, or dreams?  My go to band in the midst of melancholy is SheDaisy.  I know this sounds odd, but hear me out.  I was listening to one of their songs ("5 4 3 2 Run") the other night and a lyric struck me, “There’s more to life than just takin’ up space.”  Wikipedia defines Introspection as “the self-observation and reporting of conscious inner thoughts, desires and sensations. It is a conscious and purposive process relying on thinking, reasoning, and examining one's own thoughts, feelings, and, in more spiritual cases, one's soul.”  This song has always given me perspective in that life doesn’t always have to be heavy, and there are moments when it should be fun.  But can I relate to other introspective songs, even though they may be heavy, and find some sort of resolve in my life without going all emo?  The answer is yes, because I get perspective from the music in my life. Listening to the same selection of songs, or genre, for me, seems limiting because I can learn from the diverse musical landscape.  I find connections in music and discover that I’m not as different as somebody else and maybe their situation can give me perspective.  Searching your soul is a good thing, but remember that you have a physical presence as well, and it’s about time to go out there and feel the warmth of each other, just not in a perverted way, unless you have permission of the other party or parties.

Playlist of Soul SearchingSongs

1. Natalie Merchant-“Carnival”(1995)

When I moved to Chicago, this was the song that carried me from academic meandering to city dwelling.  It took me several years to discover this song's importance to my life.  At first, I thought it was transition from an acrimonious existence to chaotic indifference.  It now feels like the need for exploration, for it's own sake, has a cost that takes away the innocence of discovery and puts the burden of being self aware upon your psyche.  I've seen two many friends destroyed by their own revelations and wish for amnesic resolve.  A gift I sometimes wish I could afford.

2. Dixie Chicks–“Wide Open Spaces”(1998)

Taking that first step out into the wilderness can be very daunting, but it’s a move that you should make.  Life keeps moving forward, even though we may want the world to stop so that we can catch our breath.  Though daunting, new experiences can be exhilarating and you can discover new things about yourself.  I’m not saying that we learn these life lessons because I see situations repeat themselves.

3. Stacie Orrico – “(There's Gotta Be) More to Life”(2003)

In the midst of attaining some sort of success in my life, this song really struck me.  I had corporate job and was financially successful, and yet I still felt empty inside.  I stockpiled material things in the hopes of Keeping up with the Joneses.  When it all crashed down around me, it was those material things that became a burden and the maintenance cost was more than I could bear.  I began to wonder, is this all that there is in life?  This song made me seek out the answers.  I don’t have them yet, but I feel like I’m upon the path to finding happiness.

4. Chantal Kreviazuk-“Invincible”(2009)

It’s really easy to get turned around in this life, but what makes things bearable is to have a partner in crime.  Sometimes you just have to laugh at the insanity that comes your way, and it’s better when you have a kindred spirit along for the ride.  Taking solace in someone is sometimes the only solution to an insolvable situation.  Perspective and a good sense of humor heals a suffering soul.

5. Our Lady Peace-“Innocent”(2002)

Oh how we ponder our problems, and everyone has them regardless of status or situation.  What we have to realize is that difficulties happen to you, not because of you.  I don’t know how many times that I’ve focused on my life as a failure, instead of the failures in my life, because when I view it in this light, I also have to factor in the successes I’ve had as well.  Life is just a ride and there will be high and low points, but you have to remember that not everything is meant to drag you down.  “One day, you’ll stand up on your own,” is a lyric that I think goes to the heart of the matter.

6. Switchfoot-“The Setting Sun” (2005)

If I had to come up with a list of my favorite albums, which would not be easy, a sure selection that would make the list is this band’s “Nothing Is Sound,” record.  The collection of songs, including this one, has a great wide-open sound that just revels in power cords and larger than life lyrics.  I really feel alive when I listen to this song.  It’s a heavier album than their previous releases.

7. Green Day-“Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)”(1997)

For what it’s worth, this song is worth a spin.  Yes, it’s cliché and has been played at more commencement parties than I care to think about, but I think its simple message is profound.  It’s easy to get caught up in the events of the day and we sometimes forget to stop and smell the roses.  I like this band, they seem to get it, and are more punk than I’m willing to acknowledge, but there it is anyway.

The Seven Song Itch - West Coast Punk

I came to the Punk Rock party late, though I suspect if I had attended it earlier, I would probably have a record—and not the musical kind.  When Punk Rock originally surfaced I was still very addicted to top 40 radio.  I always wondered if there were songs that didn’t make the list and then a friend handed me my first mix-tape.  This form of music sharing was all the rage in high school and tapes were traded back and forth due to the lack of diversity on the radio.  My proper education of Punk Rock commenced when I made a tape, for a gal that I liked, but the album she gave me to dub just sounded like noise.  It was almost a year later when this mix-tape made its way back to me and I finally listened to it.  To my delight, the noise was the album “Fresh Fruit For Rotting Vegetables,” by the Dead Kennedys, and my education of West Coast Punk commenced.  Even now, the legacy of this band, as well as others, is very strong and has legions of fans that still come out to see their shows.  It’s odd to see Punks in their forties slamming in a mosh pit.  The anthem of Punk Rock is Anarchy, tapered with satire, sarcasm and irony of social and political issues. Most of these bands released their music on their own record labels, as well as a few independents, so that their music could be heard; way before the concept of DIY (Do It Yourself).  There are too many subgenres to Punk Rock, let alone West Coast Punk, so here is a link from Wikipedia that touches on Punk Rock Subgenres.

West Coast Punk Playlist

1. Dead Kennedys-“Soup is Good Food” (1985)

The Dead Kennedys formed in San Francisco in 1978 and unleashed a plethora of Punk Rock anthems in the early eighties.  I chose this song from their most controversial record “Frankenchrist,” because this record inspired the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC) to try to ban this type of music, (along with Fleetwood Mac—Yeah, I know it’s confusing).  The PMRC took umbrage with the H.R. Giger poster, which was included in the record album, titled "Work 219: Landscape XX" (also known as Penis Landscape).  You should look up the court case because it would take too much time to address it here. This song, however, showcases the group in a more experimental phase of their career.  It’s not the hardcore thrash of their previous releases so the message comes across quite clear with extreme irony and sarcasm.  This was a time when the nylon curtain of suburbia was pulled back to reveal the ugly side of America. The ruling class may have viewed us as disposables, but we still had our minds intact.  Our message to the establishment is that we see what you’re doing, we don’t like it, and if we have anything to say about it, you’re not going to get away with it.

2. Black Flag-“TV Party”(1981/1982)

Formed in 1976 Black Flag was central to the creation of hardcore punk.  They were innovators in the first wave of American West Coast Punk Rock and are considered a key influence on punk subculture in the United States and abroad.  This song is off of their album “Damaged,” and it brings back a lot of memories of watching the boob tube when I was growing up.  It depicts apathetic youth that define themselves in Prime Time.  Is the lost art of conversation lost, or do we need to be pacified with our bottles (of beer) so that we no longer think for ourselves.  Nowadays, what would happen if your computer, cell phone, TV, radio, etc…broke down? “What are we gonna talk about, I don’t know, We’re gonna miss our favorite shows” seems like a sad commentary on our capacity to just sit back and let the world happen to us.  Wake up and live.

3. Circle Jerks – “I Just Want Some Skank”, “Beverly Hills” & “Wasted”(1980)

Believe it or not, these are three complete songs.  Punk Rock is very potent in its musical message because most of the songs are about a minute or so, and this group is no exception.  Though a majority of songs from this genre come from a blue-collar point of view, this band focuses on entitlement that revolves about their suburban upbringing.  I’m not sure if they are just winy brats or brilliant.  These three songs are from the seminal record, “Group Sex,” which is a good sampling of their best work.  There is a great party mentality to these songs and I love the upfront and abrupt nature of the lyrics.  There is no riddle to solve in these songs, and that’s what made them great—straight forward aggression—Grrr!

4. Minutemen – “My Heart And The Real World” (1984)

This band is aptly named because most of their songs are about a minute. They took the short song motif to a higher level with their double album, “Double Nickels on the Dime,” (Note: 55m.p.h. on Hwy. 10) which this song is one of forty-five tracks. The title of the album is a commentary on Sammy Hagar’s song, “I Cant Drive 55.” The Minutemen decided that driving fast "wasn't terribly defiant,” and later on bassist Mike Watt was quoted as saying, “Okay, we'll drive 55, but we'll make crazy music."

5. D.R.I. “Nursing Home Blues”(1985)

Billed as the fastest punk band, this song is among 25 other tracks from their record “Dealing With It” This is the longest song on the release, while most of the other tracks, on the record, last about a minute. Dirty Rotten Imbeciles (also known as D.R.I.) is a thrash metal/crossover band that formed in Houston in 1982, but relocated to San Francisco in the late eighties.  If your hearing blinks, listening to this record, you may miss a song or two.  The way to truly enjoy this band, and to know when they are starting the next song, you have to apply what I like to call the “Ramones Principle.”  To discern when a song starts, with the Ramones, you hear someone shout out, “1,2,3,4.” With D.R.I, you listen for the drumsticks clicking out the tempo.

6. Agent Orange–“BloodStains”(1979)

This is the kind of band that you suspect still live in their parent’s basement and still go out to skate parks on the weekends.  I didn’t get to see them live till a few years ago and I have to say they still have all of the veracity intact.  All I can remember about this show was being soaked in beer and coming home with bruises on my arms. 

7. Fear “I Love Livin’ In The City”(1978)

This is a song that I always come back to when I think about West Coat Punk rock origins.  It was their only hit, and after the release of this song the band went though a myriad of personnel changes with only Lee Ving - vocals, rhythm guitar, as its constant member.  This band is credited as being an influence of dozens of bands, which includes, Lard, Guns N' Roses, A Perfect Circle, and Soundgarden.