My Moon My Man by Feist

I bought Feist's new album na! Fuck yeah!

Slated to come out on May 1, I was surprised to see it out in the record store I frequent. So without any hesitation, I picked it up, walked to the counter and bought the damn disc.

Listening to Feist is addicting. My Moon My Man is no exception.

I saw the video about a couple of weeks back, with Feist walking back and forth a walkalator (is that what you call an escalator that just goes back and forth?) in an airport (?). Sexy ng boses. Astig.

I wish Feist (or somebody with a Feist-y voice) would sing me to sleep every night.

Song Rating: *****

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Links:
My Moon My Man by Feist video
My Moon My Man by Feist alternate video

So What by Miles Davis

Continuing on with my jazz trip the past few weeks...

So a couple of nights ago, I dreamt I was a world class trumpeteer. Yeah! Hayop! And I was playing on stage, with an orchestra, and I was the soloist for one of the main performances. And the song we were performing was the classic So What by Miles Davis. Yeah! Topak na panaginip hahaha

The song is actually a great song for a master improvisator, as backed by the suave bass and piano, you can just go crazy. You can just freakin' blow into your trumpet (sounds kinda sexual, doesn't it) and just do whatever with your fingers. That is, if you really knew how to play the trumpet.

But in my dream, I did know how, and got a standing ovation for it. Too bad, I had to wake up and stop reveling in all the adulation. Shit. Fuck. At least, kahit sa panaginip, I was Miles for a day.

Song Rating: *****

19-2000 by Gorillaz

Damon Albarn, the brains behind the fictitious band Gorillaz, recently said that Demon Days will be Gorillaz' last studio album.

That's too bad. Although I didn't particularly like Demon Days, I thought that their first album was unbelievably good and very ingenius. To create a fictitious band (complete with story lines of each respective member) was really something, probably akin to when Paul McCartney created the concept of Sgt. Pepper, an album that would do the touring for them.

Anyway, on to the song review of 19-2000.

I can't remember if 19-2000 was the first or second Gorillaz song I heard (the other being Clint Eastwood). But at the time, it was all Creed, Korn, and Creed and Korn clones, on the radio, and I found it rather refreshing to hear something else.

19-2000 was fun and upbeat, a great pick-me-up song, with a really catchy melody. It was different and strangely funny. A great song stemming from a great concept. Astig! Cool!

Song Rating: ****

Pioneer by Interpol

There is a new Interpol song out and it's called Pioneer.

I fuckin' love Interpol. They sound like stoned monks with minor hints of being electric (in a Muse sort of way). Unfortunately, all I have of the new song is a Youtube video of them performing the song at a concert in Canada. And perhaps it does not do the song and the band justice.

For now, I'll be giving it three stars. But I think if I hear the studio version at least a couple of times, it may go up to four.

Song Rating: ***

Link: Pioneer by Interpol

Brianstorm by Arctic Monkeys

Thank God for ritmono.blogspot, and I was able to download the leak of Favorite Worst Nightmare, the new album by the Arctic Monkeys.

Promises to be different than 'What People Say I Am, That's What I Am Not' are indeed achieved. More full-on, as the band stated.

Brianstorm (not Brainstorm), what I think would be the lead off single for the new album, is sort of like a lighter System of a Down. The song starts of really really fast, like firing guns in a John Woo movie before slowly mellowing down in the middle and coming out firing again in the end.

Overall, the song shows that one of my favorite bands last year (eventhough overhyped) still has the ability to deliver good work.

Song Rating: ***

Je t'aime... moi non plus by Serge Gainsbourg (feat. Jane Birken)

I oftentimes find myself in the mood to listen to Serge Gainsbourg. The controversial Gainsbourg (who once said 'I want to fuck you' to Whitney Houston on live French TV) would make you feel like you are a French James Bond out to save the girl from distress. (Or it could also be Austin Powers, take your pick).

Anyway, Je T'aime Moi Non Plus (I love you.. I don't either) is a back and forth conversation between a man and a woman. If the song were to be described in one word, the word would have to be "orgasmic". Because that's what it actually sounds like, with the moans and sultry bedroom voice.

I don't understand French, but my bestfriend (Wikipedia) translated the lyrics for me. Some of the words are..

"I come and I go, in between your hips"
"You are the wave, I am the naked island"
"Physical love is without end"

So wiki also said Gainsbourg and Birken were actually engaged in sexual intercourse when they were recording this song. Upon listening, it may not be hard to imagine that it's actually possible.

Song Rating: ****

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Link: Je t'aime... moi non plus

I'm so tripped out on jazz these days. Went out and bought three CD's yesterday, 2 Coltrane CD's (Soultrane and Bluenote) and Bill Evans' Waltz for Debby. Waltz for Debby was actually a recommendation by the HMV music clerk (buy two stickered CDs for only HKD 150) and upon auditioning it, found it to my liking.

I knew that Bill Evans worked with the Miles Davis sextet sometime I think in the early 60s and I knew he worked on Kind of Blue, which is a fuckin' awesome album. But apart from that, I knew nothing about him or his trio.

The quality of the album was a bit grainy for me (although it actually was a remastered copy), but it'll do. Not like I'm complaining about quality when it comes to old jazz records. Hell, I've even bought a super noisy CD by Art Tatum , which was forgivable given that the recording was made in the 1930's (by noisy, I mean lots of hiss and cracks). It actually makes sense for me, as listening to it gives me a feel that I'm using an old gramophone player.

The Coltrane records, on the other hand were epic. I got to listen to them full while at work today. Not the ideal time or place to space out on jazz, but it did fine (If you're wondering, the ideal setting for a jazz trip out is with a good book and tea, in an airconditioned room). Coltrane really is putanginang' galing.

With these purchases, I decided to hold out on Friday Night in San Francisco by Al Dimeola, John Mclaughlin and Paco de Lucia. I have an unplayable ripped copy of that CD, and although I really really wanted to make that purchase, I figured that I still have most tracks memorized on my mind. So I can actually play tracks from it anytime I want to. It can store a bazillion songs and I can play it anytime, anyday. Even when swimming.

So yeah, my head is better than an iPod. Fuck the iPod, my brain rules!

My Favorite Things by John Coltrane

In the world of jazz, there are a few names synonymous with the genre itself. Miles Davis, Charles Mingus, Thelonious Monk among others. And of course, how can you forget John Coltrane.

Coltrane was an amazing saxophonist and an improv master. He had the uncanny ability to play with the music with a devil may care style with surprising results.

He also did My Favorite Things from the movie The Sound of Music which only help cement the song's status as one of the classics. The album version of the song stretches to the 13 minutes, but you don't get the feeling of being too tired when listening to it (unlike songs from Miles Davis' Bitches Brew).

It certainly is one of those songs that you've got to hear at least once in your life. Don't miss out on this.

Song rating: *****

What I've Done by Linkin Park

Way back in 2000, when I first heard One Step Closer by Linkin Park on the radio, I immediately liked what I heard. There was just something about the band that I knew they were going to be huge. And sure enough, they did, and became one of the biggest, if not the biggest band on the planet.

But soon after, my interest in LP waned, and I think I just grew up and graduated from rap-rock / nu metal to lo-fi indie pop-rock. I was one of those who wanted Chester Bennington out of LP (he is an amazing vocalist, and his talent is just being wasted with the rap rock crap).

Anyway, today, I happen to stumble upon Linkin Park's latest video, What I've Done. No Mike Shinoda's MC-ing, and minimal shots of Joe Hahn headbanging to his turntable. Great.

I've read that LP wanted to change it up a bit (adding instruments like banjo, which seems to be the rage these days, after Sufjan Stevens made it uso). The song still sounds like LP (minus the rap part), and I think it's something the high school kids of today will love.

I don't like LP as much as I did anymore, but I still think this is a generally good song.

Song Rating: ***

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Link: What I've Done by Linkin Park video

Black Wave / Bad Vibrations by Arcade Fire

When Arcade Fire pre-released the first track off their Neon Bible album last December in iTunes, they committed a boo-boo. They initially had wanted to release Intervention (Track #4) but perhaps administrative errors caused them to mistakenly release Black Wave / Bad Vibrations (Track #5).

Anyway, the track certainly takes a lot of listening before growing into it. This actually seems two songs in one, with the first part having a different tone, beat and style than the second one. It starts off with Regine doing her thing, kinda eerie and high pitched vocals and the second part is sung by her husband Win, definitely darker and edgier than the first part.

Back when Arcade Fire released this song, I couldn't believe that my current favorite band could do so medicore. Now, I kinda like it.

Song Rating: ****

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Link: Black Wave / Bad Vibrations by Arcade Fire, Live at Brixton Academy

Anak by Freddie Aguilar

Just came back from taking out our American customer to one of the local bars here in China. There was a Filipino band playing when on two separate occasions, the two Hongers I was with requested that I request Anak by Freddie Aguilar. So, ok I did.

Our American customer actually knew the song from his travels to the Philippines, and even knew that anak meant child.

Two of the Mainlanders I was with recognized the melody because of a Chinese version of the song.

So all in all, five non-Filipinos somehow knew the song. And because of the wide recognition from all over the world (thus immortalizing the song as classic), I hereby give this song 5 stars.

Song rating: *****

Phantom Limb by the Shins

In the movie 'Garden State', Natalie Portman claimed that listening to the song 'New Slang' by the Shins 'will change your life'. Not exactly life changing bordering on classic status for me, but the Shins is one band that I often consider when looking for something I can ignore to fill the airwaves. (Note: Something I can ignore is a good thing)

Phantom Limb, the first single of their latest album 'Wincing the Night Away', could be labeled as vintage Shins. It carries the same solemn harmonies and is neither quirky nor draining. Just steady, steady enough to wince the night away.

Song Rating: ***

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Link: Phantom Limb by the Shins Video

Simple X by Andrew Bird

I've read much critical acclaim from Andrew Bird releases in the past (especially his 2005 release 'Andrew Bird & the Mysterious Production of Eggs'), but I just didn't have the time to check it out. Anyway, seeing his latest album, Armchair Apocrypha, I decided to have a go.

Simple X, my favorite track in the album, blends together dreampop and indierock, along with a hint of electronica. The song reminds me of Made Up Love Song #43 by the Guillemots released about a year back. Anyway, vocals eerily sound like Thom Yorke of Radiohead fame, which is actually a very good thing.

I also read that this is actually a remake of the song Simple Exercises by Dosh. I tried to compare the two songs and came to the conclusion that you'd be better off not hearing the original (unless if a whole lot of ambient noise is what you fancy).

Song Rating: *****

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Link: Simple X by Andrew Bird MP3. Link courtesy of *sixeyes

(Just Like) Starting Over

Ummm... I guess a little bit of introduction is in order.

I'm Barry, and I'm going to be regularly contributing my song reviews to this space.

I'm not exactly taking over from Rad, per se; it's more of that I thought that I could help him out a bit, since I'm, for lack of a better word, bored. I don't know if and when Rad will be back, but for now, I will be your co-host.

Anyway, I used to maintain a music blog, #9 Dream, and even had ambitious plans for it (aka earning from Adsense). But sadly, about two weeks into it, laziness got the better of me and I scrapped the whole thing.

Anyway, enough talk and on to my first review... something I think appropriate for the occasion.

(Just Like) Starting Over by John Lennon

Lennon did not get to see this song go to #1 in the charts as he was sadly killed a few weeks before the song was released. Anyway, the song has a timeless feel as there are hints of the 60s, 70s and 80s rolled into this song. Oh, and let's not forget the 50s as John goes into his Elvis-bit in opening the chorus.

The song talks of a failed relationship, but the hero is still hoping and wanting to work things out. There just has been too many moments shared with each other, and to throw it all away would indeed be a waste. I guess we all have been in this situation before, haven't we? :)

This is nowhere near my favorite Lennon song of all time, but on its' own, it's good enough.

Song Rating: ****

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Link: (Just Like) Starting Over Video

On Blog Leave by Rad

This truly has been a short lived commitment. I mean keeping this blog and making 1 song review / day, just won't work. :) I'm going to have to think of another concept. :) maybe, i'll just steal Barry's idea of making 365 song reviews / year. so basically I can go from 1 to 10 songs / day. IF i want to.. well i'm going to sort things out. See you.

right now song count is 29. :) So.... See you

Walk Slowly by Wolfmann+

Finallyyyy I paid my visit to my suking record bar, and guess what I found.. the Wolfmann+ disc wuhoooo!! I've been waiting for this purchase ever since I heard the whole album (don't ask me how ok?) Anyway, If you haven't purchased this disc I would recommend you do since this will soon be a rarity. This is the first and last time you'd hear Wilfred's work along with the allstars.. it's sad actually.. yeah yeah you heard it before. fuck you.

Anyway, I would think that this last track wasn't composed by wilf well I don't know. But I am under the impression it's for Wilf but not by him. :(.. Just from the title.. It's a sad track. but you'd still remnant's of Wilf's genius.. but you have to have sharp ears. :) It's a slow song bidding Wilf farewell.. I especially like the part where his bandmates "toasts" beer with him..

"I'd like to toast this bottle of beer for you... THANK YOU."

Thank you.

Song Rating - ****

Gasolina by Cosmic Love

If Karl Roy and the rest of the new defunked P.O.T. were still together today, and would be tasked to release a new song they would sound exactly like this song. At first listen I thought that it was Karl Roy doing vocals. It had this nostalgic feel to it. (maybe because I am hoping.. sometime, in lieu of all the band reunions happening, that P.O.T. will come together and like all mainstream bands, reunite and release yet another album (by which I'm sure will be easily swallowed by the masses and ME! ). Anyway,

Gasolina really sounds like a song that P.O.T. can churn out I cannot stress this enough. It's dance-able and has a nice groove to it. :) Soulful too. all the WAWA's of the guitars and the ill-basslines have been laid out.. I don't know this band but they sound good... good like POT hihihi

Song Rating ***

Pag-ibig by Sino Sikat?

Sorta like a Pre-valentine gift to all y'all. (My audience of 1)

Actually, I don't know how to pronounce the band's name, either it's Sino Si Kat? or Sino Sikat? or simply Sino Sikat. Well get the name wrong, but get the sound right.. right for bed that is. :) Funky, Soulful, and Sexy. 3 words that would simply not be enough to describe Sino Sikat's music.

Pioneers of the Pinoy Soul Movement. Spreading the love... and with this track on the your stereo, You will indeed be forced to spread it. NO NOT THE LEGS. THhe Love you idiot. It's slow, it's sexy and it's seductive, what more can I say? If you saw their lead vocalist, you'll probably drop your jaws. Sadly I can't seem to find a decent pic of her. Tough luck boys.

Spread the love. Either with your girlfriend, boyfriend, righthand or lefthand or dog you sick freak.

Song rating ****

2 Songs

This is to make up for the song I missed Yesterday...

I'm actually thinking to take down this blog. It's getting a wee bit too hard to maintain. Barns was right.. A Song A day, is just too hard. Fuck

Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol

I first heard this track.. NOT on Grey's Anatomy, I don't watch that. I was actually downloading this big ass torrent called Indie Playlist, As it turns out, it's actually a compilation of probable hits for the upcoming month.. I think. Basically there's this guy who I don't know how he does it, but he screens like gazillions of mp3s and just produces this big ass file 600mb worth of mp3s that's around 100 or so mp3s that's a lot of new music for 1 month. :) Heck. Anyway, As I was trying to screen or scour my mp3 collection, I stumbled upon this song Chasing Cars, which at first listen really got my attention, I told my friend about it I told him to listen to this new song by Snow Patrol because it's a sure winner. ;) I don't know if he took my advice but anyway, after 2 weeks I hear it on the radio getting maximum media mileage. :)

TOLDJA!

Well the song is perfect for those sulking moments at home while looking out the window thru the rain. :) It starts of melancholic and sad, and ends in a really high note.. like it's giving you hope but not really? :D You get the idea.

Song Rating ****

Endless A Silent Whisper by Urbandub

Cebu-based Rockers broke thru the Manila scene with their unique sound. At First listen actually you'd think that these guys were foreigners. Excellent recording, Excellent arrangement and really really deep lyrics. :)

Song is dark and heavy. Influences of Reggae is prevalent in their riffs, Drumming is superb. I actually thought that this was done digitally. Because of their ill beats. :) It's heavy without the screaming. It's dark enough but not too dark to wallow you in sadness. There are Parokya ni Edgar / Barenakedladies type of bands and there are Bamboo type of bands. What sets these guys apart is that you can actually hear their dedication to their craft.

Urbandub is one of the country's serious musicians.

Song Rating *****

The 3 lost Reviews

I owe all of you 3 songs (add the 19 there)

But I plan to give you all the missing 3 :)

The Prayer by Bloc Party

The boys are back. :) Bloc Party is at it again with their new song..The Prayer. Well, it's a lot different from their previous songs, like The Banquet and Helicopter. The song starts of with a *dug tak dug tak* beat from the bass drum and snare, This isn't a guitar driven song, I think it's more beat-driven. :) There's not much to hear but it's still dance-able which is a Bloc Party signature, It sounds a bit darker than their other songs, I guess they're growing as an artist and are trying out a new route.. :) But I particularly didn't like this song at first listen. It took me about 5-10 spins after that the track went from "BOOOORIIINGGGG.." to "PWEDE"

*** for this song.

Dig by Incubus

So-Cal Funk-Rock band Incubus releases their much anticipated 5th-Album. Light Grenades. This song Dig is I think the 3rd track. Slow intro... Electric guitars and Acoustic Guitar... This is a typical Incubus slow song. This is not a song that you can rock out to but most certainly bob your head to. Dj Killmore is really one of the most talented DJ's out there I don't know but he, I believe gives Incubus their distinctive flavor, upon closer listen you'd hear his turntable effects in the background. I also like the way he integrates black masking as a part of the song. I wonder how they would do this live? :)

**** for this song

Thriller by Fall Out Boy

Now this is a song you can rock out to. Jay-Z does his monologue thing at the start and intro's the song.. I think this song would really make it big. A song heavy on distortion. :) I'm sure this song was meant to be played LOUD. So when playing this tune be sure to crank up the volume and bust your eardrums :) I like the part where
Patrick Stump shouts... "WHOOOOOOOOO!!!" hihihi I don't know.. but it just gives it more.. energy.. :)

**** for this song

DV by Cambio

Didn't think I'd be able to update eh? :D I plan to keep my promise bitches :D

DV, I like the concept of this song, I mean the lyrics are simple. If you grew up around Manila, then you'd be veeerrrry very familiar with the lyrics since they are street names and places around metro manila.. When you first hear the riffs it grabs your attention immediately and then Diego Mapa, starts "singing" well because I don't know if he intended it to sound like he's just speaking or he is really trying.. but that's his style I guess.. composed of rock-allstars, Cambio was formerly known as the E-heads who were formerly known as the Eraserheads now composed of Diego Mapa (Pedicab, Monsterbot), Buddy Zabala (The Dawn), Raimund Marasigan (Sandwich), Kris Dancel (Fatal Posporos), Ebe Dancel (Sugarfree, Wolfmann+), and Mike Dizon (I think). I really don't enjoy the part where Diego shouts and the bridge, and then a guitar solo enters.. It sounds a lot like noise and reverb combined. Some may find it nice, I found it too raw. not for me.. but what made up for it was Ebe's backing vocals towards the songs end. :)

Song Rating ***

The World Is Our Playground and We Will Always Be Home by Updharma Down

I know, another updharmadown song, but this band is just too good that their music has been making it's rounds and moooore rounds in both my office computer and my ipod, I just couldn't get enough of it. A perfect blend of sound.

The song starts off with a guitar key.... like a siren.. that gets louder and louder.. like an alarm. Enter soulful Armi.. with "You're my sunshine... my occassional rain.." The beat actually sounds like it came from a drum machine or it was created by a synthesizer, but astoundingly, this was all analog. Nothing digital here. AMAZING how they achieved this sound. Maybe it's because of Ean's Drum and Bass influence.

First heard this song because it was sent to me by my friend who actually looks up to this band and boy was I glad he sent this song to me while I was in China. This was actually the track that sold me to the album.

Listen to when: You wanna recall what it's like to be a Child :D

**Renewed formatting I will now omit the Listen to when portion and just add *'s. since it's easier and at least actually RATING a song would prove more useful, don't you think?

Ratings go as high as 5 *'s and as low as ZERO. :)

Thanks

With or Without You by Cellar 55

Back in Beijing, I knew that Anton Ramos, the genius behind the radio show The Chillout Project, came out with numerous discs bearing that title. I was actually looking forward to this release, but when I saw the tracklist I couldn't believe my eyes. There it was.. With or Without You. I thought it wasn't going to be my all time favorite u2 song but when my sister came to visit me she brought with her the CD, I immediately played it. Completely ignoring the fact that she was there. hihihi! :)

As I was listening through the first few tracks and I couldn't help myself I skipped right to this one. :) I was disappointed at first because it didn't sound like the U2 hit.. but as it turned out, it was just because the disc was done in such a way that it was just 1 long mix. :) It was meant to be listened to from start to end. no shuffling no skipping

It sounded a lot like that Bliss song.. Kissing.. with the beats, and that relaxing voice. I really enjoyed all 5 minutes of it :D. It could take you to another level and this is what prompted me to get the original disc the moment I set foot here in Manila :D Inasmuch as I would want to describe the sound, I can't :) I guess you'll have to get your own copy. :)

You're resourceful, you'll find it. :)

Listen to when: You're tired from a day's work and just want something soothing.

Ankle Injuries by Fujiya and Miyagi

2 Japanese guys, who live in Germany.

The this song could be used for those movies with thieves doing a job. :D I like the melody. :D the first thing you'd hear is the ill-bassline :) I don't know much about this group I just downloaded their song and took a listen since I've been reading a lot about them and how their album is good, so curiosity got the best of me. ;) Luckily, they hit the spot :) It's a nice tune :) gave it 5-stars on iTunes which means I'd be listening to this track for a looong time :)

From the sound of it, it sounds a lot electrock.. (Electronica + Rock) hihi i coined that term :D You guys should get the album :) at least I have something to look forward to..

Listen to when: You feel like robbing a bank and need a score. :)

Ankle Injuries by Fujiya and Miyagi

2 Japanese guys, who live in Germany.

The this song could be used for those movies with thieves doing a job. :D I like the melody. :D the first thing you'd hear is the ill-bassline :) I don't know much about this group I just downloaded their song and took a listen since I've been reading a lot about them and how their album is good, so curiosity got the best of me. ;) Luckily, they hit the spot :) It's a nice tune :) gave it 5-stars on iTunes which means I'd be listening to this track for a looong time :)

From the sound of it, it sounds a lot electrock.. (Electronica + Rock) hihi i coined that term :D You guys should get the album :) at least I have something to look forward to..

Listen to when: You feel like robbing a bank and need a score. :)

Para by Wolfmann+

I waited for this album the moment I heard that they will be releasing their album this month. :D Finally I got a copy from a friend. Wolfmann+ is composed of Ebe Dancel (sugarfree) Buddy Zabala (Cambio, The Dawn, Former E-heads), and Kathy Meneses (Daydream Cycle) among others and ofcourse Wilfman "Wolf" Hernandez. Unfortunately Wolf wasn't able to hear the album. He passed away on August of 2005. Wolf was considered a pioneer in his field merging rock and electronica genre. That's why I eagerly waited for the release and now it's finally here. :)

My favorite track of the album was the song.. Para, I have been playing this song ever since I first heard it.. (basically the whole fuckin' day) It's actually the stand out track of the whole album. It's radio-friendly.

Listening carefully to the lyrics, a good friend of mine actually pointed out that it was a bit creepy cuz it actually kinda foreshadowed that Wolf knew that he was going to go.. soon.. When I took another listen.. Yeah the lyrics was heading that way.. He mentions something about going on a journey and not stopping no matter what the devil tells him, he's going to go on.. to heaven. That's the beauty of music, it's open to a lot of interpretation. One it might be about Love, the next it could be about forecasting your own death.

No matter, what the meaning is, I choose to think of it as Wolf's last goodbye. A good song will never die :)

Listen to when: You don't know who wolfmann is :) and wanna see what kind of a person he is :)

Running by No Doubt

Fuckin' Internet choked on me last night, I was supposed to do a song review stupid DSL. *raises hand* DAAAMMNN YOU!

Anyway, I'm at work now, came earlier actually since I don't wanna miss an update. Here we go, Running from No Doubt intros with keyboards. The first time I heard this song was around 2001? And it was on MTV. It was the intro that got me to stop everything I was doing and turn my head (my TV was at the in front of my PC) And it glued my eyes to the TV. The melody was astounding. Seeing the video actually gave it a more nostalgic feel to it. Showing pictures of the band back when they were still toddlers and tweeners :) ahhhhh the nostalgia. Ever since that day, I always associated this song with past memories. It's funny how an music video can affect the look and feel of the song.. or should I just leave the look part out?

When I was in Beijing I kept on playing this song when I'm on my way to school during the winter. I must say this song is perfect for those days. Maybe it's because I miss the Philippines, but then again it was winter so I guess it's a good winter song.

Listen to when: You're going for a stroll, Looking at Buildings, going for a ride, feeling nostalgic.

Billy Boy by Queso and Radioactive Sago Project

Queso, formerly known as Cheese collaborates with Radioactive Sago. This outfit is a fusion of Jazz-Rock and ofcourse let's not forget Spoken word, mix that up with Queso's heavy-metal / screamo roots. and you've got one helluva track. This track is a mishmash of textured sounds. Underneath all the shredding and wild guitar solos, There's the steady drumbeats, trumpets and bongos. On top of that you'd hear Lourd's spoken word poetry. It's hard to concentrate to just one sound when this track is just full of interesting sounds. I have never been a fan of screamo. I always found it to be noise. I mean what's the point of just shouting anybody can do that right? As I found out the hardway, not all can just scream their lungs out and pass it off as music. I guess that's what some people call talent?

As I said I wasn't a fan, but this track made me listen to it in its entirety normally I'd just press the "next" button on iTunes but I guess Radioactive Sago Project saved this track from utmost forwardedness :)

Listen to when: You're going nuts, Fought with your girlfriend.

Rainsong by Imago

Imago perhaps a band that was famous for their weird way of expressing themselves in terms of music I first heard of them when I was in Highschool back in hmm.. 95? or 96?. And this song was I think their first hit. They sound really different I thought they were some kind of foreign band since their lyrics were undecipherable.. I wasn't aware and didn't care about music. All I was concerned was hanging out with friends and I was listening to anything pop. I didn't have my own musical identity. :)

The Intro is quite heavy...a lot of percussion and ethnic instruments can be heard and then when Aia De Leon sings, You'd think they were from some indigenous tribe. You won't even think they had electric guitars, drums and a bass. :D Aia sounds a lot different in this song as compared to their current hits. In fact it sounds as if she is chanting some weird spell (I think that was the main concept for the song. Pretty Good if you ask me) :) I guess that's what sets them apart from other bands they are so open to change and embrace it to the point that if you listen to all their albums.. nothing sounds alike. :) talk about getting out of your comfort zone. If you listen to the lyrics you won't understand a word, but buy the album, check out the lyrics and at first you'd think.. WTF?! these are words, She's singing garbage! but eventually I'm hoping you have an IQ higher than 10. You'll soon realize that what Aia did was she sang the song backwards.. with the chorus starting out with "Yreg Seiks.. Yreg Seiks..." you'd actually realize that it's Grey Skies.. CLEVAAA :D Don't you think? :)

This song is what actually prompted me to look up to Imago. :)

Listen to when: You don't wanna go to school..(get it? Praying for Rain?..no classes.. AHH SHARAP!)

With A Smile by Eraserheads and Southborder

In light of past events, Ely Buendia, frontman of perhaps the greatest band of the 90's. The Eraserheads recently suffered a heart attack but he's ok now, he underwent 2 angioplasties. We thought we lost you there buddy. Everyone has been talking about this. Rumors have spread that he is dead, comatosed, circumcised, you know the drill.. ;D anyway, We're just glad that he's doing fine. So this review is I guess to pay him tribute. :)

With A Smile.

I know all of you know what this song is. :D starts of with Lift Your Head.. I don't need to expound more on this tune since it's all too familiar with the most of you :D If I'm not mistaken, With A Smile is the first slow song of the Eraserheads. It's light-ER compared to their previous hits, Ligaya, Pare Ko, etc. This song will definitely be in my list of songs I can listen to 24/7. Since it holds a lot of good memories. And listening to it just brings them all back.. Good times.

Listen to when: You want to remember those days with the boys. (Early 90s onwards.)

I'm cheating I know, I'm way behind with my song reviews so just let me do my thing I plan on completing all the backlog :)

The Southborder rendition, When I first saw the tracklisting, I was surprised to see Southborder on the list. I mean, They are not a rock band and the album Ultraelectromagneticjam was composed of bands/artists in the alternative genre. :) So naturally I was curious as to what they could bring to the table, Yes Southborder is one of the Philippine's Premiere Bands. Having undergone numerous lineup changes. They have proven time and time again that they still have it. Just goes to show you can't silence a good band :) I was actually surprised to hear what they've done to the Eraserheads classic :) I actually loved it not as good as the original but hey.. they owned it this time. They replaced Ely's vocals with 3 vocals. They have 3 vocalists I didn't think they'd pull it off but they did.

They changed the feel and sound of it.. from an NU hit you can now play it in JAM 88.3 :) Good job guys. ;)

Listen to when: You miss the Eraserheads but not really.. Who am I kidding? Everybody misses the E-heads.

Nothing in this World by Paris Hilton

WHAAA?!?!?! are your eyes deceiving you? Paris Hilton?! YES FUCKER! :D You got it right :D Paris Hilton. Surprisingly, I have her album... Downloaded ofcourse! Won't throw away my hard earned money for just a hype. :) Paris is HOT :D that's a given but how about her album? :D well.. It sizzles.

Nothing in this world has been getting good airtime in my iTunes. An officemate made this playlist full of videos and bubblegum pop divas. :D and named it..

"No BIJO no GOOD".. Paris' single is right up there along with Sugababes, Britney, and Jessica Simpson. :) Surely videos give a boring track some spice. and this really did it for me. :) EXCELLENTE PARIS! :D It's a summer track. :) it's perfect for those long drives on the way to the beach on your convertible except. I don't own a convertible so I'll settle for this tune :D. It's radio-friendly, the singer is hot, the video is sizzling so what else are you looking for?

Listen to when: You're on your way to the beach with a bunch of friends.. or.. Girl-Friends :)

Oo by Updharmadown

Updharmadown, the best thing to happen in 2006, A combination of soul, drum and bass, and rock among other things. :) Upon hearing their music one can only think that this band truly sounds unique, You'd think that this band has with them a dj who mixes the beats. But when you see them live, you'd see that everything is done analog-style. Like a band should be, Guitars, Bass, Drums, Keyboards and ofcourse Vocals. Truly a Fusion band in every sense of the word. :)

Oo is perhaps their most popular track. I have actually been listening to this track even before it hit the mainstream. :) The lyrics, the Melody, and the Beat, is a culmination of 4 geniuses hard at work and you can hear it. It's your typical "I am desperately in love with you please love me to" kinda love song. But their rendition and execution is simply amazing. I invite you to take a listen. :) fire up those Limewires and let the downloads begin. Better yet, just get the album you cheap fuck.

Listen to when: You're courting a girl who just fired your ass, gave you the finger and gave you the whole "Let's be Friends" talk.

Billie Jean by Chris Cornell

Yes you read it right.. Chris Cornell and Billie Jean in 1 sentence :) Very unlikely huh? But believe it. we have seen or should I say, heard. a lot of these things, like No Doubt feat Brandon Boyd singing a Police Tune, Panic! At the Disco singing Hit me Baby one more time. Incubus singing No Scrubs, John Mayer singing some 80s hit, (I forgot what song), Fuel singing Daniel. Yes and the list goes on. Genre crossover I call it :) Chris Cornell is no exception.

Hey we all were kids at one point right? :) Yes we listened to the same cheesy music. We attached memories to it. I dunno. Thanks to Barns for sending me this mp3. I was skeptical at first but hey, it's Chris Cornell.Former Frontman of Soundgarden and currently fronting Audioslave.. Well can I just say? the track fuckin' blew me off! :D much like Fuel's Rendition of Daniel... it ROCKED THE SHIT OUT OF MY ASS!!!!!

Listen to when: You wanna hide that Micheal Jackson hit.

Maalala Mo Kaya - Nyko Maca + Playground

Amidst all the Boom-tarat-tarat's, Sam Milby and Piolo Pascual intentionally polluting the airwaves, Sometimes, A savior, musical genius comes along. I guess we really need to suffer to appreciate the pleasure :) Nyko Maca, a runner-up in the now debunked ABS-CBN show Star in a Million, has formed her own band named, Nyko Maca + Playground :) It still amazes me as to why this talented vixen didn't win the contest, I guess it's a good thing that she got first runner up cuz we have been given the opportunity to get a chance to hear what unmanufactured music she has to offer to us :)

She takes Bossanova to a whole new level, mixing it with electronica, funky grooves and ill hiphop influence. Now that's what I call musicmanship.. or in her case, musicwomanship :)

Here's a song that's worth grooving to, Much like a Chillitees favorite..Sumayaw (Review to follow) The song kicks off with an ill bassline and then enter chillax beats, add to that the texture of the scratches.. This is the type of song that you'd get to hear when you're watchin' mtv with all those blingbling..:) The beat reminds me of Jocelyn Enriquez's baby I want you.. :) and for me, that's a good thing :D It's the first song on her EP Manifesto in the Raw :) hook line sinker right there..

Her voice sounds so familiar, I just can't place it. Shit! I hate this.

Perfect to listen to when: You just wanna bob your head. Be it in the cubicle, the john, the car, the bar..whereever! Infectious BEATS IN THE HOUSE!!!!

Ikaw Pala by Sugarfree

I'm back fuckers! :D my indefinite hiatus has now come to a complete.. hiatus.. so My hiatus is now on hiatus. :D that doesn't make sense. So what? :D So the Song count now is i think a little over 30? :D not bad.. not bad at all.. Maybe I should just change this blog's title to.. How long til Rad breaks his promise? :D don't worry with each day passing, I plan on missing more song reviews. :) hihihi No, Seriously, I will catchup. I have the songs listed already, All I have to do is sit down and write the fuckin' review. :D or whatever you may call it. :)

Anyways, On with the "review"

The Song starts with 3 notes, :D Don't tell me what cuz I don't know. :) The song came from the Tala-arawan Album (I suggest you get your copy cuz it's worth every centavo. Please Please, don't buy the pirated stuff of the vendors on UM, Divi or wherever, PLEAASE!) It's a slow song :D Basically from the title Ikaw Pala.. which when translated in english is, roughly, It's You. You don't really need to turn up the volume here but, I suggest you listen to the genius behind the music.. I'm sure you'll fall in love not only with the singer (That sounded Gay!), but with the song as well. The Song's Lyrics are simple, the tune is simple. Everything is Simple but it sure has that something that can surely turn into a classic... It's Simply Magnificent!

Perfect to listen to when: You break up with your girlfriend and your girl- best friend hooksup with someone else and then you realize you love her... TOO LATE FUCKER!!! :D