“Barracuda” is blasting in the other room….and I am here, on my bed, because my brother kicked me off Guitar Hero III. He just got it for Thanksgiving (this from the boy who says he “doesn’t like music”), and I have a feeling I’ll have a few different songs stuck in my head this week (“SCHOOOOOOOOL’S OUT! FOR! EVAAAAR!”).
Anyway, on the insanely long drive home from Virginia (went to see family for the Great Holiday of the Turkey), I spent my time exclusively reading, fidgeting, bothering the people in front of me and listening to music. So I can feel a bit better about indulging in that much music time, here are a series of brief reviews/thoughts:
Origin of Symmetry by Muse (album) - an absolute explosion of sound. Beautiful noises bouncing around a room, until they hit a burst of sputtering, fiery guitars and the whole thing blows up between your eyes. It’s fascinating, and frankly, kind-of impossible to describe. Preposterously grandiose, self-assuredly strange and thoroughly enjoyable. Personal Favorites: “Micro Cuts” and “Feeling Good”
Songs That Also Held My Ear Somewhere in New Jersey-Connecticut-Pittsburgh:
“Oh What A World” by Rufus Wainwright - I want to drive through Times Square blasting this on speakers strapped to the top of my car, and watch the businessmen drop their suitcases and start dancing a chorus line on the sidewalk.
“Break Anotha” by Blake Lewis – Think Robin Thicke meets Justin Timberlake, then pile about 36 different meoldies on top of it. You’ve got one confusing, hyperactive, yet entertaining American Idol effort.
“City of Delusion” by Muse – This is as absolutely over-the-top as Muse gets. With strings, a wailing trumpet solo, multiple climaxes and fat, bubbling bass….I adore it, but still can’t help feeling a bit silly listening to it.
“Time is Running Out” by Muse – It’s paranoid, it’s raw and melodic, it’s shockingly sexy…I am beginning to fall in love with these people.
“First of the Gang to Die” by Morrissey – Morrissey doing what Morrissey does best. Taking a sensitive, awkward subject by the hand and crooning with it through cheerful, bouncy riffs that are so trying to be Johnny Marr. Best line: “You have never been in love/Until you’ve seen the dawn rise/Behind the home for the blind”
“Roadhouse Blues” by The Doors – Probably one of the greatest beats in rock, and certainly the best to drive to. Gave me a bit of sustenance towards the end of the trip.
