On May 20th The National will release Trouble Will Find Me, their sixth studio album in twelve years. I’ve heard it, and I find it disappointing. Much like High Violet, they’re moving further from the band I loved on their early albums. It started with Boxer, when they became the critics darling we know them to be today. They still write good songs, but I … Continue reading Top Ten Songs By The National
Tonight Josh Ritter hits Chicago, and I’ll be there just like I am every time he plays within 50 miles of me. I’m running through my usual show-day ritual of listening to some deep cuts, and I thought it might be a good time to shine a spotlight on some of the man’s unheralded work. Everybody loves “Kathleen” and “The Curse,” but let’s give it … Continue reading Top Ten Unappreciated Josh Ritter Songs
A few weeks ago I had a conversation with my old friend Patrick Tape-Fleming about the best albums Bob Dylan has put out. I don’t remember the genesis of the conversation, but basically he was saying someone had mentioned a record that he didn’t even consider in Dylan’s top ten. That got me thinking about how your top ten Dylan albums says way more about you than it does about Dylan. In the end we decided that you can’t really fault anyone because they’re all good in their own way (yes, even Empire Burlesque). As today is Bobby’s 71st birthday, I figured I would share my list with you and then if you feel like it you can put yours in the comments section, or up on Facebook and we can discuss them. Keep in mind I am not saying that these are absolutely the best, just the ones I think are best. Continue reading “Top Ten Bob Dylan Albums”
Ezra Furman is returning home to Chicago this weekend to finish up his tour with two shows at Schubas Tavern on Belmont. I implore anyone within driving distance to buy a ticket and get to whichever show you can. The early show is all ages and will be opened up by The Canoes (another great Chicago band) and the second show is 21 and up with Chamberlin filling in as support. Continue reading “Ezra Furman-“Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde””
Whenever I get sent a record that mentions the word “punk” in any way, I assume I’m going to hate it. Not because punk music is bad or because I don’t get it, but becuase the era that I grew up in was such a down time for the genre that I am constantly reminded of it. When I was a teenager, the big “punk” … Continue reading Sharks-No Gods
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