Archive for November, 2008
end of the Harcourt era
Last week marked much. Amongst other things my favorite holiday (this year’s celebration of thanks was unique and non-traditional, quite festive, and absolutely blessed) and the dreaded onset of my seasonal insomnia (whateva…). It also marked the end of an extraordinary era of introductions to and interviews with an assorted array of music makers on one of my favorite shows (KCRW’s “Morning Becomes Eclectic”) by one of my favorite voices, Nic Harcourt. The voice that launched a whole bunch o’ big(ish) artists, Harcourt offered more than a mere harmonious start to the day, he’s also served as a valued constant; a sound one could count on, rain or shine… sorta like the mail, but way better. Along with anticipation of the unpredictable adventures of the day-to-day, it’s something that’s gotten me excited most every working morning at 9. Okay, I’m easy. Don’t judge.
One of my oft-used mantras is that the only true constant in life is change, and I fully embrace movement and evolution, lest our spectacular planet become spectacularly boring, yes? MBE will live on, just sans Nic. And so onward we go - with all the best to Jason Bentley in his assumption of the helm.
Hard to select one song to bid farewell (he’ll still host a Sunday evening show, anyhoo). This being a “thanks for the memories” inspired post, I thought I’d go with this hopeful little ditty by Travis, from their 2003 CD 12 Memories. Travis was introduced to the U.S. by Harcourt, and provided the last artist interview of his tenure as Music Director. So now, without further ado, “Love Will Come Through”… may it come through for you.
And in keeping with my meager attempt at tradition, something new, too. “Something Anything”, that is, from Travis’ recently released Ode to J Smith. Hope you enjoy.
give a little love
I’ve been anxiously anticipating the new CD by Sir Tom Jones since I heard the song “Never” in pre-release. Then I heard the following, and, well suffice it to say I grew even more anticipatory. Have a listen and let me know if you’re not compelled to dance naked (save for the go-go boots) during this one… enjoy, and give a little love - go on and do it. Do what you can… try to understand.
And now, Never:
Did I mention that he’s like, 70? For those of you who may not be familiar with his glory, panty-garnering nights of yore, have a look-see at this 1964 video and give me your best argument if you’ve any doubt that this Welshman earned his knighthood if by merely serving as his own one-man, finger snapping, hand-clapping band. Brutal.
strange overtones
There’s nothing strange about the reuniting of two artistic geniuses, tonally or otherwise, in fact the concept and result is unsurprisingly inspired. If you’re a regular visitor to this modest little musical outlet of mine, you’re probably aware that I’m an unabashed Byrne fan. Now, put him together with the influential yet inimitable Brian Eno, and what have you got? Two multi-disciplined, extraordinarily accomplished artists, and one great new (if spiritually surprising) CD, “Everything That Happens Will Happen Today“. I hope you enjoy…
it’s a new day
A new day, indeed. Not to mention a very celebratory week. Still overjoyed, and still overwhelmed with pride and relief. My friend Cydney reminded me that Will.i.am, was reminding us that yes, we can - when some of us (yes, myself included) quite honestly were quite concerned that we might not. I was sticking with cautious optimism - but now I’m just generally optimistic, and it feels good. And now, for your celebration of a new day (gotta click on the link), I urge you to bask in the glory of just that.
Yes, we can, and yes - WE DID!!!
gratitude
I’m walking on a cloud… seriously over the moon. Filled with pride and - you guessed it, the G word. I feel like dancing, so here’s some Earth Wind & Fire to add some funkification to the satisfaction reaction over our recent election…
Funk don’t get much better than this:
I can’t ever think about EW&F without a memory for which I wish there was a video, that is, as some San Diegans may recall, the vision of Steve Poltz’s rendition of “Reasons”, a standard set piece back in the day, done in a dress in an oh-so-alluring…. um, fashion. This classic will have to do - it’s actually quite an extraordinary performance…
My God, I think I’ve got my mojo back…! Enjoy and have a beautiful, inspired, hopeful day.
Peace be with you.
feeling good
Actually, I’m sick as a dog, but in spite of it all I feel good. Tears of joy, relief, pride and hope were shed aplenty last night at the confirmation of our new President-elect, and at hearing Mr. Obama speak in Chicago’s Grant Park; a memorable speech, and a timely and historical day in American history. Thank God.
It’s a new dawn and a new day. Feel good and enjoy, and peace be with you.
elected
Here’s a little nugget from the 1974 time capsule (if only) by Alice Cooper, in honor of this all-important and hopefully historical Election Day, November 4, 2008. Now get out there and make it a great one! Peace.
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Tee of the Month
