28 Years ago yesterday , the music industry and the world lost one of rock and roll's most charismatic fromtan and vocalist to have ever pick up the microphone . That man was Freddie Mercury . As we know, we lost Mercury to AIDS, after years of constant struggle . Mercury , along with band mates Brian May, John Deacon, and Roger Taylor gave us Queen; a band that was never afraid to push musical limits and gave us some of rock's best anthems . Today , to celebrate Freddie's legacy we are going to dive into Queen's diverse catalog and pick 10 songs that need more attention . So if your looking for "Bohemian Rhapsody" "We Will Rock You", and "Another One Bites The Dust", sorry Fandango, your in the wrong place.
10. "If you Can't Beat Them" Jazz (1978)
When Jazz hit record shops in November of 1978, it was met with mixed reviews from critics . While it's considered Queen's weakest work, it did spawn a few hits. "If You Can't Beat them" is a fun , playful song that is musically a throwback to 1974's Sheer Heart Attack with punchy , hook like guitar playing from Brian May and the rest of the band . Mercury's vocals are flamboyant and fun as always and the chorus is a romper of earlier Queen songs with May, Taylor and Deacon's backing vocals sounding tight and opera influenced .
9. "Love of My Life" A Night At the Opera (1975)
This hidden beautiful gem off of the bands 1975 multi-platinum monster is Mercury at his most sensual vocal range and tone. The song stands out because it was written, sung and played entirely by Freddie (acoustic guitar arrangements were added by May later on) . It became a fan favorite at Queen's live shows and was immensely popular in South Africa . Subject wise , its about a man who has been ditched by his lover (which the listener can interpret as either male or female , given our social economics now ) The stand out of this track though is not only May's exceptional guitar playing, but his chops on the orchestral harp.
8. "The Millionaire Waltz" A Day At The Races (1976)
Yet another hidden classic from the album is always second fiddle to its predecessor , the song is based on the bands manager John Reid, who is openly homosexual . Musically , Queen is all over the map with the intro drawing influence from Vaudeville with Freddie's staccato piano to the thundering chorus with thunderous distorted guitar and pounding drums. An epic no doubt.
7. " Hammer to Fall" The Works (1984)
The Works is easily one of the best Queen albums to have come out during the 1980's. Aside from hits like "Radio Ga Ga" and "I want to Break Free" , Hammer to Fall is easily the best track. The song kicks off with May's killer guitar groove in A which has a very Rolling Stones vibe to it .Lyrically , the song was speculated to be about the Cold War, but in fact the song is about life and death. It quickly became a fan favorite for the bands live shows and is still a fan favorite.
6. "Its Late" News Of The World (1977)
The real champion if you will (and I'm right) off the bands 1977 release. An all out rocker, Brian May wrote the song with the mindset of treating the song structure as if it was a three-act theatrical play which explains why the song is at a staggering 6 minutes and 33 seconds . It's quite possibly the best rhythm guitar playing May has ever put on wax and the best late 70's Queen song to date .
5. "Keep Yourself Alive" Queen (1973)
Queen's debut album is a force to be reckoned with and a fan favorite for many die hard listeners because of it's influences of heavy metal and progressive rock and tips the hat to fellow contemporary bands of the time like Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and even Jethro Tull. Right out of the gate , you knew Queen was special . This opening track is a guitar lovers dream. May's tone , feel , and playing are so punchy and pocketed. Add Mercury's ferocious take on the mic, and the drum solo from Roger Taylor in the bridge/turn around , and you have the makings of a great band .
4. "Stone Cold Crazy" Sheer Heart Attack (1974)
Sheer Heart Attack is the album that Queen became Queen and they finally developed their signature sound . Stone Cold Crazy is Queen at their most heaviest post Queen II and it's one hell of a musical achievement. Known for it's fast tempo and heavy distorted guitar, it put the term "speed metal" in perspective before it was commonplace almost a decade later . Mercury's vocals are almost stuttering and it just works perfectly . This song was so influential on heavy metal, that it inspired Metallica and future bands to follow. If you can inspire Metallica , you have to be doing it right .
3. 'Good Old Fashion Lover Boy" A Day At the Races (1976)
This is Mercury at his cheekiest , and one of the most catchiest songs in Queen's catalog . Written entirely by Freddie , it was heavily influenced on Ragtime because of the tempo , vocal delivery , and quirkiness. A great song for no matter where you stand as a Queen fan.
2. "Now I'm Here" Sheer Heart Attack (1974)
The closing track to side 1 of the bands bobby dazzler of an album . Written while Brian May was recovering from a severe case of Hepatitis , the song is a reflection of the bands good times, bad times, and the hard and fast times of touring . It's a common favorite among fans and critics and features one of Brian May's greatest guitar riffs he ever recorded with the band . The riff is gritty , distorted , and just funky as hell with both ascending and descending scale progressions , palm mutes , and killer vibrato .
1. "Tie Your Mother Down" A Day At The Races (1976)
This song brings all the components of what makes Queen such a unique force, and it shines from beginning to end . The opening to their 1976 follow up coming hot of the heels of their previous masterpiece (both albums taking names from classic Marx Brothers films) Tie Your Mother Down is just Queen at their best , and I stand by that fact .All the elements come together here. Mercury's thunderous and explosive vocal attack, May's fantastic distorted galloping riff in A (and great slide playing) alongside a galloping drumming feel from Roger Taylor, and you have Queen at their shining moment.
Monday, November 25, 2019
Sunday, October 6, 2019
Fianlly found his way home : Ginger Baker; hall of fame inductee and legendary drummer for Cream, and Blind Faith dead at 80
On October 6th, The legendary rock n roll trio Cream lost another member . This time, it was their game changing, cocky, at times frightening , but all around immaculate drummer who was Ginger Baker . Baker died on Sunday, October 6th after being checked into the hospital for 2 weeks for being "critically ill" . Baker was known for having notorious health issues , but the cause of death is still unknown .
Ginger Baker, born Edward Baker on August 19th, 1939 in Lewisham, South London , his parents were blue collard workers and he picked up drumming at age 15 and was influenced by Jazz drummers Elvin Jones , and Art Blakely . Before his pre Cream days, he was the drummer for the R&B group The Graham Bond Organization with future Cream bassist Jack Bruce.
Baker officially came to fame as co-founder along with bassist Jack Bruce in Cream with Eric Clapton on guitar, who previously came from John Mayhall and the Bluesbreakers. Baker became the musical backbone for Cream with his tight, sharp pocket fills and unorthodox playing when the band played live . His greatest moment in Cream was a live performance of the bands instrumental song "Toad" which was recorded at the Fillmore West in 1968. His searing solo lasted a full 15 minutes and it's credit to be the first official drum solo for rock and roll.
After Cream disbanded in 1968, Baker would continue his successes with other groups . Most notable, he and Clapton formed the brief Blind Faith with fellow Traffic and Spencer David Group singer Steve Winwood . In 1969, Bind Faith released their first and only album and spawned hits like "Had To Cry Today" and the now fan favorite " Can't Find My Way Home"
Outside of music , Baker had a reputation of being extremely harsh and cranky and would seldom give interviews let alone be in the spotlight . The last public appearance we officially saw of Baker was in the 2012 documentary Beware of Mr. Baker which was directed by Jay Bulger. The doc came about because of Bulger's Rolling Stone article "The Devil and Ginger Baker" which Bulger traveled to South Africa where he stayed with Baker over a number of weeks interviewing him and asking in depth questions . It was a stellar and eye-opening documentary and although some scenes were hard to watch because of Ginger's bitterness , it was worth every minute .
Ginger Baker. One of the quintessential if not greatest rock drummers of all time . I hope you find peace in your White Room.
Ginger Baker, born Edward Baker on August 19th, 1939 in Lewisham, South London , his parents were blue collard workers and he picked up drumming at age 15 and was influenced by Jazz drummers Elvin Jones , and Art Blakely . Before his pre Cream days, he was the drummer for the R&B group The Graham Bond Organization with future Cream bassist Jack Bruce.
Baker officially came to fame as co-founder along with bassist Jack Bruce in Cream with Eric Clapton on guitar, who previously came from John Mayhall and the Bluesbreakers. Baker became the musical backbone for Cream with his tight, sharp pocket fills and unorthodox playing when the band played live . His greatest moment in Cream was a live performance of the bands instrumental song "Toad" which was recorded at the Fillmore West in 1968. His searing solo lasted a full 15 minutes and it's credit to be the first official drum solo for rock and roll.
After Cream disbanded in 1968, Baker would continue his successes with other groups . Most notable, he and Clapton formed the brief Blind Faith with fellow Traffic and Spencer David Group singer Steve Winwood . In 1969, Bind Faith released their first and only album and spawned hits like "Had To Cry Today" and the now fan favorite " Can't Find My Way Home"
Outside of music , Baker had a reputation of being extremely harsh and cranky and would seldom give interviews let alone be in the spotlight . The last public appearance we officially saw of Baker was in the 2012 documentary Beware of Mr. Baker which was directed by Jay Bulger. The doc came about because of Bulger's Rolling Stone article "The Devil and Ginger Baker" which Bulger traveled to South Africa where he stayed with Baker over a number of weeks interviewing him and asking in depth questions . It was a stellar and eye-opening documentary and although some scenes were hard to watch because of Ginger's bitterness , it was worth every minute .
Ginger Baker. One of the quintessential if not greatest rock drummers of all time . I hope you find peace in your White Room.
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
You Kept it Going till the sun fell Down: A tribute to Ric Ocasek
On the eve of September 15th, the music world was dealt with a double blow. Not even a full 48 hours since the passing of Eddie Money, we lost another legend. That man was Ric Ocasek. As lead singer and head songwriter of the Cars, Ocasek went on to pen some of the most catchy pop-rock/new wave songs of the decade.
Born Richard Octasek March 23rd, 1944, in Baltimore , Maryland, Ric and his family would eventually settle in Cleveland , Ohio . By age 16, Ocasek became fully obsessed with early rock n roll pioneers like Buddy Holly and the Crickets , Eddie Chochran, Elvis Presley and more. In the early 1970's Ric moved from Cleveland to Boston. Once settled , he began playing in a folk band called Milkwood with his friend Ben Orzechowski . The band released an album in 1973 titled How's The Weather? which failed to chart . After MIlkwood split, Orzechowksi and Ocasek remained together and would eventually form The Cars which were made up with keyboardist Greg Hawkes, guitarist Elliot Easton, and former Modern Lovers drummer Dave Robinson while Ric became the leader and rhythm guitarist . The Cars were inspired by proto-punk bands like the Velvet Underground , The Modern Lovers and Roxy Music . In 1978 when they signed to Elektra , they released their self-titled debut album which went multi-platinum and spawned hits like "Just What I Needed" "My Best Friend's Girl" and "Bye Bye Love" . They followed up their overnight success with 1979's Candy-O which spawned hits like the album title and the FM friendly hit Let's Go. In 1984, they scored the biggest rock album of the year with Heartbeat City and created such pop-rock classics like "Magic" and "You Might Think".
Later in his career, Ocasek became well-known as a studio producer . He helped now alternative rock icon Weezer with their iconic debut album The Blue Album from 1994, and their Green Album from 2001.
The last time we saw Ocasek and The Cars perform for the last time together was at the 2018 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony . They delivered and played all their iconic songs and got a standing ovation. The best artists always leave us with an unexpected exit . However, we are grateful for the great music Ric Ocasek has left us .He defined a cassette generation and made the 80's the era we all want to relieve . Thank you Ric. Now if you excuse me , I'm gonna go find my MTV and my can of Aquanet .
Born Richard Octasek March 23rd, 1944, in Baltimore , Maryland, Ric and his family would eventually settle in Cleveland , Ohio . By age 16, Ocasek became fully obsessed with early rock n roll pioneers like Buddy Holly and the Crickets , Eddie Chochran, Elvis Presley and more. In the early 1970's Ric moved from Cleveland to Boston. Once settled , he began playing in a folk band called Milkwood with his friend Ben Orzechowski . The band released an album in 1973 titled How's The Weather? which failed to chart . After MIlkwood split, Orzechowksi and Ocasek remained together and would eventually form The Cars which were made up with keyboardist Greg Hawkes, guitarist Elliot Easton, and former Modern Lovers drummer Dave Robinson while Ric became the leader and rhythm guitarist . The Cars were inspired by proto-punk bands like the Velvet Underground , The Modern Lovers and Roxy Music . In 1978 when they signed to Elektra , they released their self-titled debut album which went multi-platinum and spawned hits like "Just What I Needed" "My Best Friend's Girl" and "Bye Bye Love" . They followed up their overnight success with 1979's Candy-O which spawned hits like the album title and the FM friendly hit Let's Go. In 1984, they scored the biggest rock album of the year with Heartbeat City and created such pop-rock classics like "Magic" and "You Might Think".
Later in his career, Ocasek became well-known as a studio producer . He helped now alternative rock icon Weezer with their iconic debut album The Blue Album from 1994, and their Green Album from 2001.
The last time we saw Ocasek and The Cars perform for the last time together was at the 2018 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony . They delivered and played all their iconic songs and got a standing ovation. The best artists always leave us with an unexpected exit . However, we are grateful for the great music Ric Ocasek has left us .He defined a cassette generation and made the 80's the era we all want to relieve . Thank you Ric. Now if you excuse me , I'm gonna go find my MTV and my can of Aquanet .
Thursday, August 8, 2019
Time is on their side: The Rolling Stones play legendary set at their 2nd night at Metlife
On August 5th, 2019 , The world's greatest rock band The Rolling Stones closed their second night at Metlife stadium in East Ruthford , NJ with a bang . I was fortunate to be in that crowd that night and the result was the greatest night of my young life. I went with my father, who without his taste in music this blog would of never been created.
It truly astonishes me that in their 70's, the bands playing is so tight and professional , it's as if they never aged . The band kicked off with "Jumpin Jack Flash" and it was like being in a time machine and jumping back into the late 60's . Keith Richards tone, timing , and volume was flawless . Charlie Watts makes the drums looks easy, and at the age of 78 (as of now, he's the oldest member not including Bill Wyman , and Mick Taylor respectfully) he never missed a beat. His secret ? It's the way he holds his drum sticks . Charlie uses traditional grip, which is commonplace among jazz drummers with the hand being underneath the stick and can make "ghost" notes when keeping a beat .
Mick, well what's there to say abut him? He's the greatest front man in rock n roll history , and he proved to us again why (not that he didn't have to) with his sexually , gyrated legendary dance moves, his lip movements, and vocals, he can capture anybody's presence .
Ronnie Wood has to be given credit where credit is due . He is a top notch guitar player in his own right and he played killer solos and excellent slide guitar which I will get into more later .
As for the set list , hardcore and loyal fans (including myself and my father) were in heaven . They played everything from the hits to deep cuts .
Four songs I want to analyze from the concert are "Paint it Black", "Midnight Rambler", "Monkey Man", "You Can't Always Get What You Want", and "Dead Flowers"
"Paint It Black' wasn't only musically satisfying but also visually . To start off with , Keith played the iconic opening lick flawlessly . Mick and the rest of the band were of course on par . Visually , it was a sight to be hold . With different designs and images flowing from the two side screens, the band decided to shoot the entire song in black and white to give it that old vintage feel . It was a treat to hear this song live because aside from it being a staple for the band, it was really incredible to hear a song they had recorded with Brian Jones , the creative and the reason why the band exists at this very moment .
The Rolling Stones got their name from the Muddy Waters song "Rolling Stone." They were raised on the blues , and it's the bands bread and butter . "Midnight Rambler" is the most bluesy Rolling Stones song recorded to date that is all their own and to see it live was a sight to behold . Keith's chugging , dirty and so wonderfully nasty blues groove in B kicked it into high gear . Ronnie Wood played amazing slide as always . Mick stole that performance though . Aside from singing , he is a gifted and killer harmonica player . How he balances singing , dancing and able to play the harmonica in unison is astounding . They cranked the tune to it's limits and it was worth every minute . Mick interacting with the crowd along with those sweet harmonica improvisation was blissful .
Midway through the show, the band picked a song that the audience was allowed to vote for prior to attending the show. The vote went to Monkey Man off of 1969's Let it Bleed, and the crowd and myself couldn't be happier . The song is a standout from the 1969 album masterpiece and was surreal to hear it live . To note, everything the Stones played that night was in it's original key. Most bands their age now a days need to change the key of the song in order for the song to be played smoothly . Not the Rolling Stones baby. Monkey Man was played with such finest and professionalism it was as if it was the studio recording . Chuck Leavell played the opening piano melody. followed by the great drum fill from Charlie ,and what followed was just legendary . Monkey Man is my favorite Keith Richards riff and to see his fingers move with such finest was amazing .
Dead Flowers was such a sweet surprise .A deep cut for the fans that was all acoustic . The Stones at their country style best and it was a dream to see it live .
People are always ragging on the Rolling Stones because of their age. Well, they should put their foot in their mouth. 57 years after they formed , they are on top of their game physically and musically. If you haven't gotten the chance to see them live , don't wait any longer.
It truly astonishes me that in their 70's, the bands playing is so tight and professional , it's as if they never aged . The band kicked off with "Jumpin Jack Flash" and it was like being in a time machine and jumping back into the late 60's . Keith Richards tone, timing , and volume was flawless . Charlie Watts makes the drums looks easy, and at the age of 78 (as of now, he's the oldest member not including Bill Wyman , and Mick Taylor respectfully) he never missed a beat. His secret ? It's the way he holds his drum sticks . Charlie uses traditional grip, which is commonplace among jazz drummers with the hand being underneath the stick and can make "ghost" notes when keeping a beat .
Mick, well what's there to say abut him? He's the greatest front man in rock n roll history , and he proved to us again why (not that he didn't have to) with his sexually , gyrated legendary dance moves, his lip movements, and vocals, he can capture anybody's presence .
Ronnie Wood has to be given credit where credit is due . He is a top notch guitar player in his own right and he played killer solos and excellent slide guitar which I will get into more later .
As for the set list , hardcore and loyal fans (including myself and my father) were in heaven . They played everything from the hits to deep cuts .
Four songs I want to analyze from the concert are "Paint it Black", "Midnight Rambler", "Monkey Man", "You Can't Always Get What You Want", and "Dead Flowers"
"Paint It Black' wasn't only musically satisfying but also visually . To start off with , Keith played the iconic opening lick flawlessly . Mick and the rest of the band were of course on par . Visually , it was a sight to be hold . With different designs and images flowing from the two side screens, the band decided to shoot the entire song in black and white to give it that old vintage feel . It was a treat to hear this song live because aside from it being a staple for the band, it was really incredible to hear a song they had recorded with Brian Jones , the creative and the reason why the band exists at this very moment .
The Rolling Stones got their name from the Muddy Waters song "Rolling Stone." They were raised on the blues , and it's the bands bread and butter . "Midnight Rambler" is the most bluesy Rolling Stones song recorded to date that is all their own and to see it live was a sight to behold . Keith's chugging , dirty and so wonderfully nasty blues groove in B kicked it into high gear . Ronnie Wood played amazing slide as always . Mick stole that performance though . Aside from singing , he is a gifted and killer harmonica player . How he balances singing , dancing and able to play the harmonica in unison is astounding . They cranked the tune to it's limits and it was worth every minute . Mick interacting with the crowd along with those sweet harmonica improvisation was blissful .
Midway through the show, the band picked a song that the audience was allowed to vote for prior to attending the show. The vote went to Monkey Man off of 1969's Let it Bleed, and the crowd and myself couldn't be happier . The song is a standout from the 1969 album masterpiece and was surreal to hear it live . To note, everything the Stones played that night was in it's original key. Most bands their age now a days need to change the key of the song in order for the song to be played smoothly . Not the Rolling Stones baby. Monkey Man was played with such finest and professionalism it was as if it was the studio recording . Chuck Leavell played the opening piano melody. followed by the great drum fill from Charlie ,and what followed was just legendary . Monkey Man is my favorite Keith Richards riff and to see his fingers move with such finest was amazing .
Dead Flowers was such a sweet surprise .A deep cut for the fans that was all acoustic . The Stones at their country style best and it was a dream to see it live .
People are always ragging on the Rolling Stones because of their age. Well, they should put their foot in their mouth. 57 years after they formed , they are on top of their game physically and musically. If you haven't gotten the chance to see them live , don't wait any longer.
Friday, July 19, 2019
Top 10 Aerosmith Deep Cuts
With new dates added by popular demand at the MGM in Las Vegas , Aerosmith: the world's greatest American hard rock band is in no way ready to call it quits. With 46 years in the business in the books, it's hard to forget how many songs the band has penned during that timeline . Here at top 10 deep cuts that need further listening and/or need more recognition .
10. "Woman of the World" Get Your Wings (1974)
The closing track to side 1 on the bands stronger sophomore album , the song was penned by Steven Tyler before he joined Aerosmith with his former band member of Chain Reaction Don Solomon. The song proves that Aerosmith can groove at any tempo . It's a groovy jam in A with a steady yet effective beat provided by Joey Kramer . Tyler's voice in particular shines on this track because he's all over the place with it (in a good way) he goes from soulful to scream so naturally and this song proves that he can be the so versatile .
9. "Hangman's Jury" Permanent Vacation (1987)
Done With Mirrors from 1985 was officially the first comeback album for Aerosmith after years of personal issues and drug and allchol problems were finally curbed , but Vacation really shot the band back into the limelight and fame . The song has catchy FM hits like Rag Doll and Angel , but this song is the standout . It shows that Aerosmith are firm deciples of the blues and their love for it . With Tyler's harmonica chops at the begging , the whole song is a great blues stomp and a damn good time.
8. "Movin Out" Aerosmith (1973)
The 7th song from the bands debut album , the song was created over a guitar lick Joe Perry would use use to warm up with . The song was recorded in the bands apartment on a waterbed at 1325 Commonwealth Avenue in Boston . Out of the gate , the band wanted to show that the blues was the greatest art form. You can really hear Joe Perry's influences of Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck both rhythmically and lead wise.
7. "Toy's in the Attic" Toys in the Attic (1975)
The opening title track to Aerosmith's 3rd album , the song kicks it into high gear with thumping guitars, drums, and bass . Musically , the song is defiantly a tip of the hat to early punk rockers Iggy Pop and the Stooges and The New York Dolls.
6. "Get the Lead Out" Rocks (1976)
The funkiest and most groovin song from the bands masterpiece studio album is a testament to their legacy .Tyler singing with such swagger and the groovy guitar lick by Joe Perry and Brad Withford are just blissful . What's really the icing on the cake is that the guitar is tuned down a half step, which is unusual because with Tyler's vocal range , he can sing the dictionary and it would sound slick, but it works , because its Aerosmith.
5. "Eat The Rich" Get a Grip (1993)
By 1993, Grunge and alternative rock was becoming a force to be to reckon with . Bands like the Smashing Pumpkins released their landmark album Siamese Dream and grunge gods Pearl Jam with their sophomore album VS you couldn't escape the impact . Aerosmith came hitting hard with a song called "Eat the Rich".With the George of the Jungle like opening with maracas and Tyler's screams resembling a chimpanzee , Perry's incredible riff and solo and even impressive drum chops from Joey Kramer, this song proved that Aerosmith were here to stay, no matter the decade.
4. "Let the Music do the Talking" Done With Mirrors (1985)
The bands comeback album from 1985 was the first new batch of material since the bands poorly received album Night In the Ruts and with the band fully clean and sober. This rocking jam in G with was originally composed by Joe Perry with his side band the Joe Perry Project when Aerosmith was on hiatus. Aerosmith's take is superior for obviously reasons . Tyler back with killer swag and vocals , and the standout is the slide guitar which was a real treat.
3. "No More No More" Toys In the Attic (1975)
This Toys in the Attic gem is a favorite among loyal fans , including myself . The main reason for me why it stands out is the guitar work provided by Joe Perry .It combines an arppegiated opening , then shuffles into a B blues and then alternating back to the arppegiated sequence. To top it off, the song is in a alternative tuning which is E5 in which the A string is tuned to B, and the D and G strings are tuned to be in unison to E.
2. "Adams Apple" Toys In the Attic (1975)
Quite possibly the best slide guitar work done by Joe Perry and Brad Withford . The song oozes classic Aerosmith. Tyler sings as narriator as the song is a play on the story of Adam and Eve and how both were tempted to eat the forbidden fruit . Of course , it's in true Aerosmith fashion that song is also hinting on love and lust , and it's perfect .
1. "Sick As a Dog" Rocks (1976)
Rocks , in its entirelty , is an album that shows the band at it's most raw and powerful . It is cited to many critics and fans as their finest work. The album was a key influence on fellow hard rock and Heavy Metal bands such as Guns N Roses, Metallica , and even Grunge gods Nirvana. This track is one of the most overlooked songs on the album and from the band in general . Tom Hamilton , who is the bassiest, plays the iconic opening riff which is heavy influenced by The Byrds . It has that jangly , arppegiated feel . Just everything about this song musically perfect , The band is so tight and play so raw, it's more of a garage jam than a studio recording , and it's Aerosmith's cream of the crop.
10. "Woman of the World" Get Your Wings (1974)
The closing track to side 1 on the bands stronger sophomore album , the song was penned by Steven Tyler before he joined Aerosmith with his former band member of Chain Reaction Don Solomon. The song proves that Aerosmith can groove at any tempo . It's a groovy jam in A with a steady yet effective beat provided by Joey Kramer . Tyler's voice in particular shines on this track because he's all over the place with it (in a good way) he goes from soulful to scream so naturally and this song proves that he can be the so versatile .
9. "Hangman's Jury" Permanent Vacation (1987)
Done With Mirrors from 1985 was officially the first comeback album for Aerosmith after years of personal issues and drug and allchol problems were finally curbed , but Vacation really shot the band back into the limelight and fame . The song has catchy FM hits like Rag Doll and Angel , but this song is the standout . It shows that Aerosmith are firm deciples of the blues and their love for it . With Tyler's harmonica chops at the begging , the whole song is a great blues stomp and a damn good time.
8. "Movin Out" Aerosmith (1973)
The 7th song from the bands debut album , the song was created over a guitar lick Joe Perry would use use to warm up with . The song was recorded in the bands apartment on a waterbed at 1325 Commonwealth Avenue in Boston . Out of the gate , the band wanted to show that the blues was the greatest art form. You can really hear Joe Perry's influences of Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck both rhythmically and lead wise.
7. "Toy's in the Attic" Toys in the Attic (1975)
The opening title track to Aerosmith's 3rd album , the song kicks it into high gear with thumping guitars, drums, and bass . Musically , the song is defiantly a tip of the hat to early punk rockers Iggy Pop and the Stooges and The New York Dolls.
6. "Get the Lead Out" Rocks (1976)
The funkiest and most groovin song from the bands masterpiece studio album is a testament to their legacy .Tyler singing with such swagger and the groovy guitar lick by Joe Perry and Brad Withford are just blissful . What's really the icing on the cake is that the guitar is tuned down a half step, which is unusual because with Tyler's vocal range , he can sing the dictionary and it would sound slick, but it works , because its Aerosmith.
5. "Eat The Rich" Get a Grip (1993)
By 1993, Grunge and alternative rock was becoming a force to be to reckon with . Bands like the Smashing Pumpkins released their landmark album Siamese Dream and grunge gods Pearl Jam with their sophomore album VS you couldn't escape the impact . Aerosmith came hitting hard with a song called "Eat the Rich".With the George of the Jungle like opening with maracas and Tyler's screams resembling a chimpanzee , Perry's incredible riff and solo and even impressive drum chops from Joey Kramer, this song proved that Aerosmith were here to stay, no matter the decade.
4. "Let the Music do the Talking" Done With Mirrors (1985)
The bands comeback album from 1985 was the first new batch of material since the bands poorly received album Night In the Ruts and with the band fully clean and sober. This rocking jam in G with was originally composed by Joe Perry with his side band the Joe Perry Project when Aerosmith was on hiatus. Aerosmith's take is superior for obviously reasons . Tyler back with killer swag and vocals , and the standout is the slide guitar which was a real treat.
3. "No More No More" Toys In the Attic (1975)
This Toys in the Attic gem is a favorite among loyal fans , including myself . The main reason for me why it stands out is the guitar work provided by Joe Perry .It combines an arppegiated opening , then shuffles into a B blues and then alternating back to the arppegiated sequence. To top it off, the song is in a alternative tuning which is E5 in which the A string is tuned to B, and the D and G strings are tuned to be in unison to E.
2. "Adams Apple" Toys In the Attic (1975)
Quite possibly the best slide guitar work done by Joe Perry and Brad Withford . The song oozes classic Aerosmith. Tyler sings as narriator as the song is a play on the story of Adam and Eve and how both were tempted to eat the forbidden fruit . Of course , it's in true Aerosmith fashion that song is also hinting on love and lust , and it's perfect .
1. "Sick As a Dog" Rocks (1976)
Rocks , in its entirelty , is an album that shows the band at it's most raw and powerful . It is cited to many critics and fans as their finest work. The album was a key influence on fellow hard rock and Heavy Metal bands such as Guns N Roses, Metallica , and even Grunge gods Nirvana. This track is one of the most overlooked songs on the album and from the band in general . Tom Hamilton , who is the bassiest, plays the iconic opening riff which is heavy influenced by The Byrds . It has that jangly , arppegiated feel . Just everything about this song musically perfect , The band is so tight and play so raw, it's more of a garage jam than a studio recording , and it's Aerosmith's cream of the crop.
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
American Recordings: Jonny Cash's stripped down masterpiece
The year is 1994. Grunge and 90's alternative is at the top of it's game. Bands like Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots and Weezer were ruling the airwaves. Then on April 26th of that year , the unthinkable happened . Producer Rick Rubin, who was known for producing the Red Hot Chili Pepper's landmark album Blood, Sugar, Sex, and Magik, and Tom Petty's sophomore album Wildflowers made the album that bought The Man In Black back into the limelight . That album is American Recordings.
By 1994, Cash was 62. His record sales in the late 70's and throughout the 80's were at a decline . Despite being a member of the country supergroup the Highwaymen with fellow country legends Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson , Cash's solo work had been quiet . But no one knew Johnny Cash's music more than Rick Rubin. For the recording process , Rubin allowed Cash to record in his living room with his Martin guitar, and that is the reason why this album has aged like a fine wine . It's Cash, his haunting and beautiful baritone vocals, and his guitar. That's the magic behind this album .
The whole album is a masterpiece, but if we're going to pick out key tracks , my two picks are "Delia's Gone" (which Cash previously recorded ) and "The Beast in Me"
Cash's songwriting is so prolific and it shows in both of the tracks . "Delia's Gone" lyrics are so unlike Cash, but he makes it work. Cash plays the role of a husband who would of had Delia as a wife, if he didn't find her in a saloon and shot her down. With lyrics like "First time I shot her, I shot her in the side. It was hard to watch her suffer , but with the second shot she died." only Cash would make violent intentions musically fitting .
"The Beast in Me" was written by Cash's son in law Nick Lowe, but Cash made it his own . With it's lyrics of pain and sorrow , it fit Cash. Cash isn't afraid of pain and sorrow, with the lost of his older brother when he was younger and years of drug and alcohol abuse .
American Recordings is one Johnny Cash's most intimate as a songwriter . It's Cash at his rawest , both lyrically and musically. It's a testament to his legacy, his fans , and it's one of his best studio albums ever.
By 1994, Cash was 62. His record sales in the late 70's and throughout the 80's were at a decline . Despite being a member of the country supergroup the Highwaymen with fellow country legends Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson , Cash's solo work had been quiet . But no one knew Johnny Cash's music more than Rick Rubin. For the recording process , Rubin allowed Cash to record in his living room with his Martin guitar, and that is the reason why this album has aged like a fine wine . It's Cash, his haunting and beautiful baritone vocals, and his guitar. That's the magic behind this album .
The whole album is a masterpiece, but if we're going to pick out key tracks , my two picks are "Delia's Gone" (which Cash previously recorded ) and "The Beast in Me"
Cash's songwriting is so prolific and it shows in both of the tracks . "Delia's Gone" lyrics are so unlike Cash, but he makes it work. Cash plays the role of a husband who would of had Delia as a wife, if he didn't find her in a saloon and shot her down. With lyrics like "First time I shot her, I shot her in the side. It was hard to watch her suffer , but with the second shot she died." only Cash would make violent intentions musically fitting .
"The Beast in Me" was written by Cash's son in law Nick Lowe, but Cash made it his own . With it's lyrics of pain and sorrow , it fit Cash. Cash isn't afraid of pain and sorrow, with the lost of his older brother when he was younger and years of drug and alcohol abuse .
American Recordings is one Johnny Cash's most intimate as a songwriter . It's Cash at his rawest , both lyrically and musically. It's a testament to his legacy, his fans , and it's one of his best studio albums ever.
Monday, June 24, 2019
Greta Van Fleet:Where do I stand ?
Rock N Roll in 2019 , let alone almost for the entire past decade, the community has been all over the spectrum.. Bands like the Foo Fighters, Green Day (with 2016's amazing LP Revolution Radio), and with The Black Keys finally releasing new material since 2014, they're keeping rock n roll alive .
Out of left field back in 2017 came a band called Greta Van Fleet . With the release of their EP Black Smoke Rising( Ep standing for extended play , which is only 3-5 songs so not quite an album), the most standout composition was "Highway Tune " the single that made the Billboard mainstream rock stations in September of 2017. When I first heard it, I thought "Whoa! Led Zeppelin made a new song ? I wasn't alone .
Greta Van Fleet was formed out of Frankenmuth, Michigan and consists of vocalists Josh Kiszka, guitarist Jake Kiszka, bassist Sam Kiszka, and drummer Danny Wagner. As if my comment above didn't give it away , the band is heavy influenced if not clones of Led Zeppelin. With Jake's Jimmy Page like distorted , heavy, and bluesy guitar hooks and riffs and Josh's vocals being so close to Robert Plant's howl, the band quickly drew fans and critiques apart . The main debates about this band are as follows : Keeping rock n roll alive ? Or be original and creative . I'm here to give my two cents.
As I said earlier, it's no secret that GVF is heavily influenced on Led Zeppelin . Part of me is happy knowing that kid's my age appreciate the great Led Zep. However, it's one thing to sound exactly like them . This is where I stand 50/50. To see a band play with actual instruments in this day and age, let alone musicianship is something I tip my hat off to . However, as much as I love Led Zeppelin, we don't need another one . Now granted , it's been said and proven that some of Led Zeppelin's greatest songs have been copied and re-written from blues legends of the past . Most notable "Whole Lotta Love" being inspired and copied by Muddy Water's "You Need Love." However, after Zep's two first landmark albums , they went on to create their own sound . This is where I agree with the other side . If GVF want to become a successful band and have a devoted following , they need to develop their own unique sound and make it their own and to prove that rock is alive and running well . With only one full LP in their catalog Anthem of the Peaceful Army, I hope the band can really dig deep and find themselves . They got the talented for sure. Now make it your own.
Out of left field back in 2017 came a band called Greta Van Fleet . With the release of their EP Black Smoke Rising( Ep standing for extended play , which is only 3-5 songs so not quite an album), the most standout composition was "Highway Tune " the single that made the Billboard mainstream rock stations in September of 2017. When I first heard it, I thought "Whoa! Led Zeppelin made a new song ? I wasn't alone .
Greta Van Fleet was formed out of Frankenmuth, Michigan and consists of vocalists Josh Kiszka, guitarist Jake Kiszka, bassist Sam Kiszka, and drummer Danny Wagner. As if my comment above didn't give it away , the band is heavy influenced if not clones of Led Zeppelin. With Jake's Jimmy Page like distorted , heavy, and bluesy guitar hooks and riffs and Josh's vocals being so close to Robert Plant's howl, the band quickly drew fans and critiques apart . The main debates about this band are as follows : Keeping rock n roll alive ? Or be original and creative . I'm here to give my two cents.
As I said earlier, it's no secret that GVF is heavily influenced on Led Zeppelin . Part of me is happy knowing that kid's my age appreciate the great Led Zep. However, it's one thing to sound exactly like them . This is where I stand 50/50. To see a band play with actual instruments in this day and age, let alone musicianship is something I tip my hat off to . However, as much as I love Led Zeppelin, we don't need another one . Now granted , it's been said and proven that some of Led Zeppelin's greatest songs have been copied and re-written from blues legends of the past . Most notable "Whole Lotta Love" being inspired and copied by Muddy Water's "You Need Love." However, after Zep's two first landmark albums , they went on to create their own sound . This is where I agree with the other side . If GVF want to become a successful band and have a devoted following , they need to develop their own unique sound and make it their own and to prove that rock is alive and running well . With only one full LP in their catalog Anthem of the Peaceful Army, I hope the band can really dig deep and find themselves . They got the talented for sure. Now make it your own.
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