Here we are folks, it's the weekend and I hope you've got some time to listen to some outrageously good tunes as well as reading some random thoughts from yours truly. I'll also discuss one very disappointing new release but more about that later on.
Stryper - Take It To The Cross - https://youtu.be/OWvdLnP8m3I
Lux Lisbon are one of my favourite current bands. They are independent and release all of their own material as well as doing a stellar job at keeping up the hype using various social media platforms. The band spend the time to connect with potential and current fans individually and, whilst that takes up time for them it certainly engenders loyalty. Lux Lisbon have some new tunes being released on February the 18th and I'll remind you at the time. I really would encourage you to try these two tracks out because they really are a great band with strong writing, great vocals and plenty of catchy tunes. Fans of The Killers, U2 or Simple Minds should listen without delay.
Lux Lisbon - Get Some Scars - https://youtu.be/D13lu3aajjo
Lux Lisbon - Bullingdon Club - https://youtu.be/5esbUG4bslQ
Helmet are on their way back to Australia in April. That's one for all you lovers of metronomic rhythms and really cool heavy guitar. Helmet are like a cross between your favourite metal band and a slide rule. Anyone would think that they'd been listening to Adelaide's The Mark of Cain when they recorded this.
Helmet - In The Meantime - https://youtu.be/9346rQ1d8ik
One thing that I'm really enjoying about my new job is the time driving between clients. Some of you might be asking yourselves, has he gone mad? But here in Canberra the distances aren't huge, the traffic is light and it means I get an opportunity to listen to more music. New job...oh yeah. I'm working with DJ Al-ee-sunshine in her professional organising business. It's fun and busy so far and I'm enjoying the challenge. Week one is done and I saw four clients and did a heap of backoffice type work. I think DJ ZedBoots was a bit shocked at the truth that I'd turned her room into my office! It's groovy having bed next to your desk if you need a short lie down during the day. I made an effort not to listen to my standard car playlists this week so here's two tracks I really enjoyed.
Porcupine Tree - Fear of a Blank Planet (live) - https://youtu.be/BZghBgdqUQc
Michael Schenker Group - Feels Like A Good Thing - https://youtu.be/2WG2HNhLRK8
Speaking of work; one of the essentials these days is having a blog or similar to build a client base and keep people engaged. If you'd like to read what I wrote about garages, studios and hangouts then click here.
The Winter Olympics. Seriously, watching the Australian coverage you'd think that there was only snowboarding, figure skating and maybe some skeleton on offer. The distinct lack of curling on the television is a disgrace. I don't like the whole opening and closing ceremony nonsense either, it just makes me yawn. But if they played this I'd be a keen viewer...
Emerson, Lake and Palmer - Fanfare for the Common Man - https://youtu.be/c2zurZig4L8
In April I'll be off again on Pollie Pedal joining some veterans, politicians and others in a 1000km cycle from Melbourne to Canberra. All funds raised go to supporting Soldier On who work to assist contemporary veterans, first responders and their families. Last year I rode as a staff member and i worked bloody hard the whole time. This year I'm going as a rider and a veteran. The route is very cool as we'll go through the town I went to High School in and even cycle past my old front door! My goal is to raise $1000 and I'm about halfway there already. If supporting me to support veterans is something you'd like to consider then please click here.
John Farnham - Help (live 1987) - https://youtu.be/DgmNi-0atb4
I read recently that Steve Earle and The Dukes are doing a concert tour where they'll play his classic album, "Copperhead Road" in its entirety. I guess that'll be kind of cool for both the hardcore fans and casual listeners. I like it when performers dig out at least a few more obscure album tracks in a live situation. Steve played a great show when H and I saw him in Sydney a while ago so fingers crossed he makes another trek downunder.
Steve Earle and The Dukes - Johnny Come Lately - https://youtu.be/MWudiLgUtfo
I promised a new release that is very much below par and here it is. You all know by now that I am a big fan of the US metal band, Stryper. I've got all of their albums including an original pressing of their first release (The Yellow and Black Attack). This week they released a new track and, well, it's horrible. Just when it's sounding great with the classic Styrper guitars, melodies and amazing vocals the chorus comes along and it's like a mix of the worst rap/thrash/Dr Seuss you've ever heard. Dreadful. I can only hope that the rest of the forthcoming album isn't like this. Anyway, feel free to judge for yourself and let me know your thoughts.
Stryper - Take It To The Cross - https://youtu.be/OWvdLnP8m3I
I can't finish on a low note so here's something to raise your spirits. Every now and then someone will have a fall out training on the bike. DJ ChuckBee had a small one on Friday. He ended up on his back on the grass with his bike still attached to his shoes. Luckily there's little damage and we could laugh about it and ride one. This song's for him...
Men Without Hats - Safety Dance - https://youtu.be/0QDKLglEP5Y
That's all folks,
Rob
Rob
Thanks for pointing to LL. Lots to listen to here. The Stryper clip seems intent on constantly twirling the band name in your face to distract you perhaps from the somewhat silly chorus. Who does that anymore? Ah, Porcupine Tree. What a song. What a band. Wish they were still going. Glad you like it.
ReplyDelete