Drive out with the sun in your eyes, you wasted my time, it's true, it's true

Band Of Horses - Evening Kitchen

I got to see BOH in concert last night and although I got chills when they sang 'The Funeral' and didn't think they could top that, they did when they came back for the encore and sang this song. I don't know all of their music and this song was new to me, but it is just beautiful. Seeing two of them just stand there with one guitar and sing it so perfectly in harmony was so special. I just forgot everything around me for those three minutes and lost myself in their voices. I think everybody in the hall did. It is such a simple song with simple chords but it really reflects the talent in this band.

http://m.youtube.com/?reload=7&rdm=04t3#/watch?v=oSqu7zmqKos

There's nothing I could do, in order to save myself I had to cut you loose.

David Usher - Wake Up And Say Goodbye

It is very unfortunate that I'm such a slacker and rarely post songs these days. In my defense, I have been super busy. Decided to do a quick post today, because I just heard David Usher after SO long and it made me SO happy. I first heard him when he was part of the band Moist. Only knew one song by them (Breathe - really good...I think it was part of the Godzilla soundtrack. I swear the soundtrack was better than the actual movie). Anyway, I saw him perform at a small venue in university and it was so wonderful. He has an amazing voice - soothing and simple, and sounds awesome live. This is one of my faves of his. Couldn't find a good link on youtube, so I hope this one works. Just find the track and hit play. I hope you like it!

http://grooveshark.com/#!/album/Wake+Up+And+Say+Goodbye/2879479

We can be heroes just for one day, we can be us just for one day

The Wallflowers - Heroes

I watched The Perks of Being a Wallflower a couple of weeks ago. Great movie, takes place in the 90's, and therefore has a phenom soundtrack. This song was what they referred to as the tunnel song, the song that made them feel infinite. The movie uses the original version by David Bowie, but I've decided to post the version I heard growing up. It reminds me of when the Godzilla movie came out because it was on the soundtrack. Pretty sure that soundtrack was better than the movie itself. Awkward.

The song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQ0J602X53c

The scene from the movie: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPH1I1-SUp4

When we taste the bitter end, and hunger life again, we take another turn with a better hand.

Lights - Flux And Flow

Crazy beat on this track. If you don't have speakers hooked up, don't listen to this one until you do. I heard this song at an Owl City concert while the band equipment was being set up. It really stood out to me; the intense electronic pop sound suited the atmosphere so well. Kind of dreamy (which is the word I use to describe Owl City's music) with an awesome edge to it. Her voice blends so well with the music in this song, almost as if it's another instrument. I hadn't been exposed to much of her music, but I never pegged her music as multidimensional. Now I do.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbebU0xLntI

Some nights I stay up cashing in my bad luck, some nights I call it a draw.

Fun! - Some Nights

Okay, for the longest time I could not stand this song. I wrote Fun! off as a one-hit wonder. I'd just change the station whenever it came on. But just yesterday, I found myself humming it out of the blue and it was like my subconscious was telling me to give it a chance. So on the way home today, of course it came on the radio, and instead of changing the station, I turned it up. And now, I just think it is awesome. SO good. The choir style singing, the beat...they just nailed it. It's funny how my feelings towards a song can change so fast. I truly appreciate it now. Imagine hearing it live. What a great atmosphere it would create. Damn. Woooah-O, woah-oh Ooooh oh! That's me typing out part of te chorus. If you've already heard it, and don't think much of it, just try it once more and really take it in. If you don't like it after that, then....well, that's fine.

The song starts two minutes into the video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOnekzXs9R4&feature=youtube_gdata_player

And I may go to places I've never been to just to find the deepest desires in my mind

Two Door Cinema Club - Sleep Alone

I just had to post this today. Their new album, Beacon, comes out this week and this was the first release. I've listened to their first album hundreds of times and will probably listen to it another hundred times and enjoy it just as much every time. This song is a good sign, no, a great sign, that their new album will be just as good as the first. I think this song has just the right amount of energy, and the transitions from soft sound to bursts of energy make it perfectly catchy from beginning to end. It's a like-the-first-time-you-hear-it type song. That happens a lot with this band. TDCC has the type of music that can be played full blast so you can feel every piece of it and get lost in it, or faintly in the background to calm you down. It's very refreshing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNXybY2DtwM

Say my name and every colour illuminates, we are shining and we will never be afraid again

Florence + The Machine vs. Calvin Harris - Spectrum (Say My Name)

Another house track for you as the last week of August looms before us. Stellar song to say the least. Enjoy the fist pumping fun in the car with the windows down and the sunshine around you while you still can! The original song is already pretty decent, but the house beat just amplifies Florence's voice and takes the track to a whole other level. What a voice, especially the chorus, which is the best part of the original and the remix. It was meant to be a house song. I feel like I wouldn't have been surprised if I found out there was no original track. I'll be honest, I haven't listened to much music by Florence + The Machine, only radio releases, but based on a couple of remixes I've come across, I find that the twisting of the originals gives the tracks more power and emotion.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4-6Y_91v5I

Maybe heaven right now is a devil or angel away, that won't change. Together we vow that our colours will sparkle the faith.

Sebastian Ingrosso and Alesso - Calling (Lose My Mind)

I've been told I don't post enough house music. So here's one that has been big for me this summer; blows up the speakers every time. There are quite a few remixes of it, but I've just posted the original. The vocals are awesome - if you follow my posts, you may recognize this guy - Ryan Tedder from One Republic. His voice totally compliments the buildups and doesn't take away from the melody. For the most part, I tend to enjoy house songs that have vocals, and I'm not a huge fan of long buildups (of course there are exceptions). This song has the type of buildups I like: short and sweet. I'm gonna say the best place to hear this song is at a club; that's the first place I heard it. Shazam came in handy again for sure. Fist pump to that shit!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eqcPsA_9sk

I don't care if you steal all my air, we can breathe in together as one.

Hedley - Kiss You Inside Out

I really liked Hedley when they released their first album. Went to see them in concert and everything. I haven't been a huge fan of their music the past couple of years. 'Trip' still has a spot in my favourites playlist though. This song is really nice though. Sometimes I find that there are spans of a few days where a radio station will play the same song around a certain time everyday. I've noticed this more in the mornings when I wake up because I usually have the same station set on my alarm clock. Anyway, this has been the song I've been waking up to this week, and each day I have liked it a little more...now I straight up love it. The tune is so pretty and it's just happy; like a revelation of love. Sweet and honest, semi-poetic lyrics too. I just love the guitar melody and the 'wohoo'. Happy, happy, happy! Totally my jam right now. On repeat. The video is super adorable too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksrFRkA8J4w

And we don't know just where our bones will rest, to dust I guess

Smashing Pumpkins - 1979

Had a craving for this track just now. Taking it back to the 90's; a song about feeling free and happy, about reminiscing youth. Perfect track to accent good times, taking a trip down memory lane, making a long drive more enjoyable, or even to chill out to on a cloudy and lazy summer day like today. Listened to it with my eyes closed sitting on the couch. I used earbuds because there are times when playing a song through earbuds where I forget the earbuds are there and the music feels like it's coming from inside my head. It's almost like the band has set up its equipment on my brain, probably my auditory cortex and amygdala. It's pretty awesome when that happens.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aeETEoNfOg

Talk myself out of feeling, talk my way out of control, talk myself of falling in love with you

Green Day - Oh Love

Here is the first track from Green Day's upcoming trilogy of albums. I like that it sounds like their older stuff. It is a decent song to have as the first release. Nothing crazy; just simple and fun, with the signature Green Day sound. I can see myself easily singing along to this. I just think that after the American Idiot album, my expectations for this band are really high. I'm hoping their new stuff is at that level. I went to see the American Idiot musical, which performs the album as the story it is telling, and it reminded me of how awesome every track was. Glad they're back!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_05XAPR8q8

I fell in love with you suddenly, now there's no place else I could be but here in your arms.

Hellogoodbye - Here (In Your Arms)

This song is relatively old, but contagious. I come across it every once in a while and end up adding it to my current monthly playlist, so it never dies. I remember being crazy for it in university, playing it for anyone that would listen, and it brings back some interesting memories. All-nighters for final papers, unlikely pairs hooking up, broken friendships, and getting set for the summer. Love the lyrics, simple and repetitive yet meaningful, and the jump-around energy that comes with the chorus. Great energy for the summer! Cute video too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-KQ1tp_qOQ

Cause your beauty burns through the darkness, crystal and clear, from here to eternity.

Paul Van Dyk ft. Adam Young - Eternity

It's official. Adam Young has the perfect voice for trance music. The combination of the music and his voice brings about a magical and dreamy feeling. They suit each other so well. His voice sounds so positive and happy, and the lyrics are pretty cute. I'd classify this as another nighttime track, perfect for a night where you find yourself looking up at the sky and watching the stars. If you don't find yourself looking at the stars, then just close your eyes and pretend. Guaranteed, you'll feel smiley! I don't think there's anyone that won't like this song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npiBAlRN70Y

Take me to your best friend's house, I loved you then and I love you now, oh yeah.

Grouplove - Tongue Tied

A super fun song...total burst of energy. I first heard it around Christmas, in an Apple commercial. I say this about a lot of songs but it sounds extra awesome turned up in the car with the windows down on a sunny afternoon. It's cheery and fresh, and the sound of multiple singers makes it a good sing-along. Colourful and free-spirited, a solid summer track. Also, if you click the link and get a Google Chrome commercial, don't skip it...it's really cute!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwB-iVAfnMo

We were wasted waiting for a comedown of revolving doors

Metric - Speed Of The Collapse

Alright, here is another love at first listen track. I downloaded a bunch of random songs this evening, and was driving somewhere with my new playlist going. Didn't know which track was which when they came on - I like doing that because I hear each song with no expectations. This track came on and it got my attention right away. The first thirty seconds or so remind me of Muse, for some reason. I may be way off on that, but I'll leave that up to you. Once Emily starts singing, I am all over it like white on rice. More new Metric! It's so good! I have to go home and download the whole album (Synthetica)! So that's what I'm doing now. I'm sure I'll love it - I mean, it's Metric, come on. Mind you, I wasn't too pleased with 'Youth Without Youth', their first single off the album. This one is much more signature Metric. Like I was saying, to me it starts off sounding like Muse, and then it blends with Pilate's 'Barely Listening' and transitions into a new spin of Metric, which is awesome. It's got a good mysterious and dark vibe to it. Great night time track. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jiQ1QpNSkA

Touched your head gently, felt my heart melt cause I knew I loved you more than life itself

Will Smith - Just The Two Of Us

Here's a way back playback suitable for Father's Day. Even though it's about a father and son, many can relate to it. I don't know where I'd be without my dad and I love spending time with him. Granted, most of the time we spend together is watching the Leafs, depressed. We are similar in so many ways; we definitely both have the same strange sense of humour. He does so much for me, sometimes too much. I am definitely a spoiled daddy's girl, but I love it. Happy Father's Day to all the special dads out there!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WamkRSDeD8

Give me scars, give me pain. Then they'll say of me, say of me, say of me, there goes a fighter.

Gym Class Heroes - The Fighter

Pardon my lack of posts lately. Here's a good one that you may have already heard on the radio. I love the lyrics and the artist collaboration, but more than anything I like the "Ohhhh" after every line in the chorus. Everything from the tune to the hooks and build-ups to Ryan Tedder's passionate voice, this song is inspirational.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxV-OOIamyk

Sidenote: In my post title, I really don't know if they say "say to me" or "say of me"... it sounds like "to" but "of" makes way more sense so I went with sense... :D

I can tell you my love for you will still be strong after the boys of summer have gone

The Ataris - Boys Of Summer

Solid cover song, and very summery (title has the word summer in it). Rockified and energized - very nice twist to the original. I like it better, obviously. I know it's not summer yet, but it sure feels like it. Just imagining how awesome an outdoor concert would be right now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8581LbXBJqY

I'm just a notch on your bed post but you're just a line in a song.

Fall Out Boy - Sugar, We're Going Down

This gorgeous and sunny weather calls for some upbeat punk rock. These guys were just a phase for me, but their music has a nice teenage rock concert energy to it. It takes me back a few years, when I was crazy for their song 'Dance, Dance', which I still thoroughly enjoy. I do like the lyrics to this track though, and it sounds great with the windows down in the car on a day like today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhG-vLZrb-g&ob=av2e

Everyone's so intimately rearranged. Everyone's so focused clearly with such shine.

Silversun Pickups - Lazy Eye

If you know me well, you know that this is my all-time favourite song. I love every millisecond of it. It has been my favourite song since '07. It had been on my iTunes for some time. I had downloaded it with a bunch of other songs and I had it playing in my monthly playlist while studying for midterms. I'm not sure how many people do this, but I often liked listening to music when studying, and when I was reading I liked to have the same song playing in the background, so that novelty wouldn't distract me. Well, this song came on and I decided to keep it on repeat. After about three listens, I was in love. Head over heels. Since then, I've turned to this song in good times and bad. I've listened to it when I've received great news; I've listened to it to ring in the new year, and my birthday; I've listened to it when I've felt so horrible that nobody could make me feel better; I've listened to it through seemingly infinite tears. Sometimes, when it comes on, I get teary because of how much I love it. One of the happiest moments of my life was when I saw SSPU play it live. I hope everyone finds a song this special to them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBShLMWqF_0

Here is an additional clip of the CBC Hockey Night In Canada intro to Game 7 of probably my favourite playoff series in recent history: Penguins vs. Capitals, Crosby vs. Ovechkin. They used Lazy Eye for this clip, and I was absolutely ecstatic when I saw this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Xr0y7w-Zd0

Lastly, here is a small tribute to Adam Yauch, of the Beastie Boys, who passed away on May 4th.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9yq88LY2N0

And when it's all over and you open your eyes, to see the room turned on its side, you'll be lying by a note on the floor signed: The Royal We

Okay, I'm terrible. Since I've missed two days of tribute songs, I'm calling this post a triple threat. Three SSPU songs in one post. Gotta keep up with the countdown. Get ready to hear three killer tracks.

Song # 4: Silversun Pickups - The Royal We
Such an intense song. Sounds a little bit like war. I think it's about a relationship that's on again off again and the consequences that come with it - the emotionally violent, inevitable destruction of it. Love the music, even if I'm not totally clear on the meaning behind the lyrics. I've said it before, sound is everything. And this one has such a badass sound. Guitar bit in the middle is wonderful.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPzU1Uz8ujw

Song #3: Silversun Pickups - Catch And Release
Another stellar slow jam from SSPU. Totally sexual and lustful, and there's something mysterious and wrong about the situation at hand. It is just a beautiful song; violin solo is gorgeous. I just love how their music, even if it were to have no lyrics, is so accurate in telling us what the mood and story of the song is. And I'm not just talking about this song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j08iHBqiavU

Song #2: Silversun Pickups - Rusted Wheel
The bass entrance at about 1:10 is great. I like the lyrics too, the metaphor of a rusted wheel; someone standing still as life passes them by and they can't move forward. The song goes through the seasons, and the person is stuck, and telling others that even though they aren't attaining everything they've ever wanted, they can at least move on and make progress.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQuBjZchzZo


I can't emphasize this enough, this band is real talent. Can't wait till tomorrow's post!

I can see the pictures on the floor, sketches of what was there before. Three came from one little seed, the last one is all i need

Silversun Pickups - Three Seed

Okay, this post is going to be really short because I have to go to sleep (blame the NHL playoffs for stealing my evening). Here's a good slow tune by SSPU - awesome melody. It's got kind of an eerie vibe to it...interesting lyrics too. Many say they are about abortion? Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mj2m9qbm7Fg

When reactions turn into hurricanes, and the middle ground seems a little tame. Whether full or empty, it's all the same.

Silversun Pickups - Substitution

Love the melody of this track. Cool lyrics too...I believe it is about the band feeling that people compare their sound to other bands. There's a bit of a sarcastic tone to it, I think. I like it because it can apply to different things in life as well. I'll let you in on a memory of this song. Swoon had only come out a couple months before SSPU came to Toronto two years ago. I didn't know about their concert until the week of. I make a monthly playlist and this song was on it at the time, and I would listen to it so much and it would always make me smile. The day of their concert, I tried to get tickets to their show super last minute and all was falling into place. Then, last minute, while I was driving home listening to this song, singing along as usual, I got a text and the plan had failed...and I just started crying. I wanted to see them so badly. I don't cry a lot, but when I do, it is for the weirdest things. Don't feel sorry for me though, because I got to go see them a few months later when they came back to Toronto, and they played this song and it was heavenly.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mfdq4QyUDf8

I just waited there, as the music soared into the air. As the lights went down, she said don't open your eyes

Silversun Pickups - Dream At Tempo 119

Here we go. Song #7 of my week-long album release countdown for SSPU. I really hope I keep up with this because I totally failed at maintaining the OTH 12-song tribute. Anyway, this one is off their first full-length album, Carnavas. Very cool sound. I like how it sways back and forth from a dream-like sound to a sudden startup of music as if to wake you up from the dream. Now, to be honest, I am not really sure what the lyrics mean, but it could very well be a description of a dream, and if you've ever tried to recall one of your dreams you know that very rarely do they make sense. One thing that I think I am interpreting correctly is that the person he meets in his dream is telling him to stay asleep so the dream can continue. I have definitely had dreams where I can feel myself waking up but I want to keep sleeping to end the dream. Interesting stuff, dreams are. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTU4M1_DBAs

I should've seen a glow but everybody knows that a broken heart is blind

The Black Keys - Little Black Submarines

Here's a nice treat for an ugly Monday. Starts off kind of sad and melancholic. And then, halfway through, there's a pause and the electric guitar comes in, and, well jeez this song rocks hard. It's cool because the start and the end sound like two different songs. Goes from one end of the spectrum to the other, but both sides are lovely. I would love to hear it live.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F20zZKWeXyg

Illusions fade when feelings rise, I push them under as I hide. Illusions fade when feelings rise, I keep on finding reasons why.

Kaskade ft. Rebecca & Fiona - Turn It Down

Great track for my situation. I am so so so sleepy (I think it was the cold and rainy weather that did it) and I have hours of work to do this evening. So I left work to get home fast and start my pile of work. I played this song using my full in-car methodology for it. Ya that's right, I have a methodology for it. This is what you need to do:

1) Start the song at low volume. Rebecca & Fiona use whispery voices like a lullaby.

2) Between 1:15 and 1:30, gradually increase the volume. At 1:30 it should be at max volume.

3) Fist pump in your vehicle (tinted windows and good steering wheel control advised)

By the end of the song, you should feel somewhat more alert than when you started. 

In case you'd like to know, my favourite part of the song is between 2:00 and 2:15. Sounds so good. Also, I'd like to point out that you can tell Rebecca & Fiona are Swedish as their accent is somewhat detectable when they're singing. I picked this up after some time. It's in the way they say their S's. They are always pronounced as S and never Z, regardless of the word. I learned this through watching interviews with Mats Sundin. Never would I have thought that watching a hockey player be interviewed would help me identify singers' nationalities in songs.

I have loved Kaskade for some time now. In fact, his track Move For Me featuring Deadmau5 is my favourite dance/house song. Although I am not as familiar with his older music, I absolutely loved his album Dynasty. I definitely listened to it non-stop for a month. That's a long time given my long commute and how quickly I get sick of songs.This is a non-getsickofitable song, in my opinion. Enjoy!

This isn't the best link because it cuts off at the end, but it's the only one I found with the same length version that I have on iTunes: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Oz4LJLhFfA

P.S. The longer the post, the more likely it is that I am procrastinating.

He is the grand optimist I am the world's poor pessimist. You give him burden sometimes, and he will escape unscarred

City And Colour - Grand Optimist

Great song for lying in bed on a cloudy day like today. I can totally relate to these lyrics as I find myself to often be a pessimist. Not always, but often. It's not a great quality, but I think that it's often realistic. My reasoning behind pessimism is that if I expect little, my expectations can be met without disappointment or I can just be pleasantly surprised. Optimism is admirable, but hard to maintain. To be an optimist, you have to be able to handle anything that comes your way and prepared to be let down. I think the key would be to find a balance between the two, and be a realist, knowing that realism isn't always negative.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZo31zMAySQ

I'll never let them get closer, shower you with any blame. Now we dance in our own picture, where the rules have changed.

Silversun Pickups - Bloody Mary (Nerve Endings)

I wanted to save this song for my pre-album release SSPU week-long tribute, but I couldn't wait. Swoon and Carnavas will be hard albums to top, but I am so excited for their new album, Neck of the Woods, to be released May 8th. This is the first released track, and I love it...then again, I do love everything SSPU. It's got a different style compared to their other popular stuff, but it's nice to see another side of the band. Getting this new track got me listening to all their music one morning, and it put me in a good place. Every time I listen to them, I'm in a good place. There are very few artists you can go back to and enjoy so much every single time. Anyway, check this one out. Hope you like it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIO43xfij3s

A Behind The Scenes Clip re: Bloody Mary
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-d9njv-ZghU

Here's an article about the inspiration behind the new album. SO excited for it!
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/silversun-pickups-confront-loss-on-new-album-20120411

We don't need a cure for the weight of the world cause it's floating round in the universe. Just swng it like it's tied to a string that you hold, and let it go.

Dragonette - Let It Go

Here's a good party track with lyrics and beat appropriate for the TGIF feeling. I like the carefree mood of this song, putting things into perspective, brushing problems away, and making you wanna turn it up and tune everything out. It's been a long week, and now it's time to just let it go.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSL93KO2gnk

We ate fish and we listened to some old time rock 'n roll. She said 'you can call me baby if you let me hold your soul'

Sky - Some Kinda Wonderful

After an overwhelming day at work, I needed a song to calm me down. Music from childhood is always a good choice, because it takes you back to a time when life was far simpler. This track did it for me today. Back to the 90's. Reminds me of sunshine and ice cream. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czJp1c3CXdA

It's not hard to live like a ghost. I just haunt all that I've wanted, and leave what I don't.

Blind Pilot - Half Moon

Another track from One Tree Hill, played in the opening scene of the series finale. Simple and mellow tune, nice harmonizing voices. It's definitely the type of song I would love to see performed at a small and intimate venue. I'm sure an acoustic version of it wold be just beautiful. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68EIBy9Z-ew

You'll sit alone forever if you wait for the right time. What are you hoping for?

Jimmy Eat World - 23

I just said goodbye to my favourite late high school / university show. I've mentioned it earlier, and have posted a few amazing songs I first heard on One Tree Hill, and I will certainly post more in the future. Despite the fact that this show has been going downhill for the past few seasons, I stuck with it because it will always have a special place in my heart. There were scenes in this show with the most perfect dialogues and songs that just tugged at my heart. Back when the show was at its peak, hardly any One Tree Hill episodes would go by where I didn't shed a tear (they were not all sad tears). I am quite happy with the series finale. They covered everything I wanted, except bringing back Lucas and Peyton.

This track is from Season 2, when Brooke and Lucas' messy history had already been established and everyone was rooting for them. The particular scene where this song came on was right at the end of an episode when Lucas had finally realized he needed to tell Brooke how he felt...only to find her in the arms of Felix! Oh, the drama.

Anyway, this is an emotional and relatable song by a talented band. Beautiful lyrics. It's not easy to make a song that is 7.5 minutes and good to the last drop. But Jimmy Eat World totally pulled it off. The musical intro is stellar; first minute and a half is the best part of the song. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AlHjb0xpIE

If I go everywhere you want me to go, how will I know you'll still follow

Silversun Pickups - Panic Switch

Don't want to make this a long post, but just had to share this track today. These guys are definitely in my top 5 favourite bands. They do sing my all time favourite song, and they are amazing live. This track is ridiculous - so badass. Love the guitar in it, and Brian's voice is always amazing. And man, the drummer, Chris, is so intense. Phenom. I like how it starts so abruptly and ends just as abruptly. There's so much stuff going on in the song that you'd think it should just sound noisy and overwhelming, but it's the greatest kind of noise and you just get lost in it. TOO good. I highly doubt I am making sense right now, but it doesn't matter. Just listen to the song. I had this on repeat on my drive home today and despite the rush I was in to get home, I sat in the car in my garage till the song ended. Respect.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AG8fugqFn9Q

See I notice nothing makes you shatter, no, no. You're a lover of the wild and a joker of the heart, but are you mine?

The Kooks - Junk Of The Heart (Happy)

It's funny how you can have a song on your iTunes for months and it comes on shuffle but you don't really take notice to it. Then, one day, you're out somewhere, and you hear it and recognize it, and suddenly it's better than it ever sounded. That's what happened to me with this song. It is very catchy, but the process of hearing it at a bar, finding the chorus so familiar, taking note of some of the lyrics, googling them, and realizing I already have the song, made it come to life for me.

I have only heard a few tracks by The Kooks, but I really do enjoy their musical style. There's something kind of oldschool Britpop about their music - and that's a funny comparison because I don't know much about oldschool Britpop. I find it really hard to put their style into words...I guess I find their music to be laid back and effortlessly catchy; something to snap your fingers to. And the music sounds kind of fuzzy and...vintage? They remind me of a lighter version of the Arctic Monkeys. Anyway, check this one out - it's a happy one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pvHZ4ddR-4&ob=av2n

Right now I'm looking at you and I can't believe you don't know you're beautiful. That's what makes you beautiful.

One Direction - What Makes You Beautiful

Alright, so here's a first: a double song post. I'm not gonna lie, this was, hands down, my song of the week. I don't care what anybody says, it is a GREAT song. I have been listening to it every chance I've got because it makes me so happy. I guess it's the pop-loving kid in me, getting a chance to enjoy boy bands again. I just have to say, I am so glad that the tween girls of today have boy bands to listen to and enjoy. From the time I was a tween up until very recently, the number of pop boy bands making it onto Top 40 was little to none. I personally think a lot of young girls need to go through their tween years with boy bands in their lives - positive, emotional and lovey-dovey lyrics, cute band members singing solos, and concerts where they can go and dance and scream their heads off singing along. One Direction is perfect for all of that. I love this song for its innocent and honest lyrics and it makes me smile...and totally want to jump around and sing along to it, like a kid. Thumbs up!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJO3ROT-A4E&ob=av2e

AWOLNATION - Sail

Now, the reason why I'm posting a second song is because I'm pretty sure that most people that read this post have heard One Direction all over the radio. I blog to share music that isn't as well known. So hopefully those of you that are anti boy bands made it to this part of the post and will listen to the track below. Really cool and different song. Good for head bobbing. I really like the its pace...it's almost like things are happening in slow motion. I think the lyrics are describing the feelings of someone who feels misunderstood and just wants to get away from people and life and its problems. Pretty relatable, I'd say. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gH2efAcmBQM&ob=av2e

Choose your last words, this is the last time, 'cause you and I, we were born to die.

Lana Del Rey - Born To Die

This song is hauntingly beautiful. Low octaves and flat notes. It scares me a little, yet I cannot stop listening to it. I had heard of Lana Del Rey before but did not know any of her music until yesterday, when I came across this track. I haven't heard a voice like hers before. It sounds completely effortless, maybe even a bit dry, but it works so well for this song. I have heard she is not the greatest performer, but regardless, this song is a winner. I feel like it is from the past - it's got a classic vibe to it. It does give me shivers though - it would be the perfect track for the end of a tragic romance movie where the damned couple ends up dead in a hotel room or something. And as their bodies are discovered, the credits roll up the screen with this song playing in the background. Very specific, I know. When you hear it, that description might make more sense to you. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bag1gUxuU0g&ob=av2n

I can tell just what you want, you don't want to be alone, you don't want to be alone. And I can't say it's what you know, but you've known it the whole time, yeah you've known it the whole time.

Two Door Cinema Club - What You Know

I was going to post an emo song today, because it's rainy and I feel slightly emo. However, I changed my mind and decided to post this lovely upbeat song that just makes me happy every time I hear it. I realized just how much of an effect it had on me when I heard it at a nightclub in Barcelona called Razzmatazz. It was the first club I had been to that played Indie Rock / Alternative music and it was pretty great. It was a huge and dark club with flashing lights and a big screen on one wall, showing music videos as the songs played. It was like being at a concert. Anyway, I had a lot of thoughts swirling around in my head and was getting myself down, and then this song came on and it was the perfect pick-me-up. Not only is the melody beautiful, the lyrics are like a revelation that many people need to have at some point; it's an acceptance of the reality that nobody wants to be alone and people have different ways of filling the void. You don't have to relate to this song to love it - not at all. Even if the lyrics mean nothing to you, it should put a smile on your face. I must add that I've checked out Two Door Cinema Club's album, Tourist History, and it is fantastic from beginning to end.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXwYJyrKK5A

Open your hand, take a glass, don't be scared, I'm right here. Even though you don't know, trust me girl, you wanna be high for this.

The Weeknd - High For This

This song is wicked. I heard it for the first time yesterday while driving home and it honestly just took over my mind and put me in a zone, from beginning to end. I got lost in it, everything around me seemed like it was going in slow motion...although that could've very well just been the traffic. The intensity of the lyrics and beat are kind of freaky and the singer makes it somewhat seductive. I think it leaves a lot up to the listener. I first noticed The Weeknd on Drake's album, Take Care, in the song 'Crew Love'. He has a fantastic voice, and the emotions his voice can evoke in 'High For This' is a perfect example of why I think he has got some serious talent. Anyway, prepare to be mind-blown.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubAQEed9ALc

The sun goes down, the stars come out, and all that counts is here and now. My universe will never be the same, I'm glad you came.

The Wanted - Glad You Came

I try to not post too much top 40 music because I want to get you to appreciate the music that you don't hear on the radio and the beauty in a song that can't be overplayed. However, I have been hearing this track on the radio here and there for the past month, and today its level of awesomeness just hit me. And who knows, maybe you haven't heard it. A song by the modern-day boy band - super catchy and pretty charming. Those serenading voices and wooing lyrics is what got us girls loving boy bands like the Backstreet Boys when we were younger. These guys and this track make me reminiscent of the giddy feeling I'd get when hearing a song like I Want You Back by NSYNC. The music and beat is wonderful too - makes me wanna dance. Bonus: These guys are British and you can hear their accents when they sing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ggzxInyzVE&ob=av2e

How do you feel when there's no sun? And how will you feel when rain clouds come and pull you down again?

Feeder - Feeling A Moment

I have been seriously slacking with my One Tree Hill tribute posts. The best part of the song is the beginning. It brings such a strong and brilliant energy - like a revelation. To me, the song puts everyone on the same wavelength, telling us we all feel the same emotions sometimes, happy and sad, and we all share particular moments filled with those emotions. It's empathetic. Whenever I go to a concert, I always wonder what song the band will open with, and what song I think would be perfect as an opener. If I were to ever go to a Feeder concert, I think this track would be perfect as it evokes a flood of energy and emotion. It makes me happy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6Fo9MPapm0&feature=related

This song plays in the opening scene of the third OTH season - when we find out that Dan didn't die in the fire. The third season was when OTH was at its best, and every episode tugged at the heart. I used to notice the music a lot more then than I do now. Every song that stood out to me was absolutely perfect for the scene it was in. Just like this song would be perfect for a concert opener, it was perfect for the season opener too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doVAPoGqWvs

I don't wanna change your mind, I don't wanna change the world. I just wanna watch it go by, I just wanna watch you go by.

The Strokes - Under Control

This is one of my favourite songs by one of my favourite bands, hands down. Their edgy indie garage rock style is beyond cool, and their talent is off the charts. The reason I say this is not just because their music is ridiculously awesome, but also because whatever I have heard of the side projects of different band members has been really good. I can listen to these guys anytime, anywhere. Their music is, and will always be, timeless. When I went to NYC, I spent so much time going to different music and record stores and t-shirt shops looking for a Strokes t-shirt. Not easy, and no, I did not succeed.

Although this song doesn't show off all aspects of their talent, it definitely puts a spotlight on the voice of Julian Casablancas. His deep, sleepy, raspy voice is unreal. The more you listen to their songs, the more you realize how perfectly the grungy guitar melodies and his voice complement each other.

I can go on about how great they are forever, so I should probably focus on this song. It's perfect for today because today is one of those Mondays where I woke up regretting sleeping so late for no reason whatsoever. I don't think I fully woke up today, and hearing this song keeps me content and in the perfect mellow state to get through my day and go right back to sleep when the time comes. It makes me want to sway back and forth. It's about the bittersweet failure of young love - sweet and relatable lyrics, telling you to just let things be and wish well. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkEA2BJOhxo

I like your point of view so don't you shy away. Ride out the wave.

Kings of Leon - The Face

It's hard to describe this band's sound in a few words, but I'd like to think it's rockified (I made that word up) country music with a twist of the blues. The country sound totally has to do with the the lead vocals of Caleb Followill - such an amazing and unique voice to hear in this genre of music.
It's kind of strange, but when I hear any of their songs, the setting I imagine in my mind is always in the southern parts of the US, where life seems simpler and there are cowboys. In my head, their more upbeat songs take place during a hot and sunny day out on the field, and their slower more ballad-like songs are always at night in the country, under a starry sky. I'm ridiculous, I know. They are from Tennessee though, so I'm not completely off.

The meaning of the lyrics to this song is completely clear to me, but it does have a sad feel to it. I think it's safe to say it's about a girl. My favourite part of the song comes at 2:28, when the guitar solo reaches its peak and the vocals just kill it (the good kill). Ride out the wave.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzzbLK3XOY8

Hold out your hands and you can go anywhere. So reach for the stars 'cause I'll be waiting up there.

Armin Van Buuren ft Adam Young - Youtopia

This is a nighttime song...like a lullaby with a pleasant dance melody backdrop. A lullaby remix! The reason I say lullaby is that Adam Young has an amazingly soothing voice. If you don't know who he is, he is the singer from the band Owl City (great track by them was Fireflies). Listen to this track when you need to calm down or wind down. I really think it works. Such a great collaboration between one of the best DJs and a magical voice.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_s9hIs0wYFQ

Tonight, we are young. So let's set the world on fire, we can burn brighter than the sun.

Fun - We Are Young

So this post needs to be super quick as my eyes are closing faster than I'd like. I just really wanted to post this song today. It is such an awesome feeling when you love a song the instant you hear it. I got that feeling when I heard this track. What makes it even better is that I recognized the vocals almost immediately - Nate Ruess from the band The Format. His voice makes me happy because one of my favourite songs is by The Format. Anyway, this song puts a smile on my face with it's youthful anthem-like chorus. It's been stuck in my head all day and I don't mind it at all. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sv6dMFF_yts

I thought I saw a sign from the gods, a sign from the gods that you weren't meant to be mine, and it's fine

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Meet Me At The Corner

I've had this album for some time now, but hadn't listened to it properly until this past week. Of course, it's great. Everything by RHCP is great. They are so consistent in producing good music that you can listen to anytime, anywhere. All their albums have a perfect balance of mellow and upbeat tracks, showing their versatility. I have to say that their music is the BEST summer road trip music. Nothing compares.

We all know this band knows how to rock out and get funky, but I do enjoy when Anthony K. serenades with some sweet mushy love song-like lyrics in combination with soft beats and signature RHCP guitar melodies. This song has that. It reminds me of 'Dosed' - one of their best tracks hands down. I will surely post that one at a later date. For now, enjoy this one. It's pretty sweet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1uedDsJWe4

You think your days are ordinary and no one ever thinks about you, but we're all the same, and she can hardly breathe without you.

Keane - She Has No Time

I know I've been slacking on the One Tree Hill posts, but I just caught up on this season last night. I'll try and do a few OTH posts this week to catch up to the number of episodes there has been this season. In the last episode aired, Nathan has gone missing, and obviously Haley is very worried about him. If you're a One Tree Hill fan, you know that the 'Naley' story is pretty sweet. Everyone loves this couple. This song was played way back in the 2nd season when Haley left for her music tour, leaving Nathan behind in Tree Hill. There's some symbolism going on when he throws her keyboard at their wedding mural and breaks both. As usual, it's a pretty perfect song for the last scene. When a song magnifies the emotion felt in a moment, the memory of that moment sticks with you forever.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RZOg3Ybe9M

The voice in the background of this ending montage is Brooke practicing her Student Council president speech. The quote below is pretty well suited for all that was going on in the show at that time.

The courage of life is a magnificent mixture of triumph and tragedy. A man does what he must in spite of personal consequences, is spite of obstacles and dangers and pressures. And that is the basis of all morality. - John F. Kennedy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uc72VhjptlA

And I don't want the world to see me, 'cause I don't think that they'd understand. When everything's made to be broken, I just want you to know who I am.

Goo Goo Dolls - Iris

I help out with Student Council at our school, and one of my jobs is to help organize the school dances and be in touch with the DJ. Since I have to be at the dances, I obviously want good music playing, so I send request lists to the DJ. It may just be me that thinks this way, but slow dance songs have to be good, because some kids may remember these slow dances for a long time. Last week I had my iTunes 90's playlist going in the car, (if you ever need help recalling great childhood memories, check out this playlist on your iTunes) and this song came on. I can't really describe the feeling I had, but I was pretty happy. Turned it up loud, sang along to it, and enjoyed every second of it. I definitely put it on the request list. The only 90's track on there. It didn't get played because I don't think a lot of pre-teens know it, but I hope it carries on through the generations somehow. I know it'll always be special to those that grew up in the 90's. Pure classic.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdYWuo9OFAw&ob=av2e

As clumsy as you've been, there's no one laughing. You will be safe in here.

Our Lady Peace - Clumsy

One of the greatest feelings is when a certain song comes on the radio at the perfect time; it's especially great if you haven't heard the song in a while. That happened to me yesterday morning with this song.

Sadly, I was delayed in liking Our Lady Peace and I missed out on the excitement that a fan has when a new single or album is released. I used to find them kind of scary when I was little...must have been the music videos. But I got over it around the time they released One Man Army and realized their music is really friggin' awesome...meaningful, real and relatable. They don't make rock music like this anymore.
Just like with many other bands, I tend to listen to their music in waves; I'll go nuts with it and then forget about it. I like it that way though, because every once in a while I get to rediscover all their songs I love, and enjoy them just as much as I did when I first heard them.

Turning on the radio and immediately hearing Clumsy from beginning to end just made my morning.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp2P6JKc1QE&ob=av2n

Can you feel it? We can escape and feel so free. If you believe it, it will be yours in a heartbeat.

Spencer & Hill and Nadia Ali - Believe It (Cazzette Remix)

Awesome club song. Perfect for dancing and possibly fist pumping in a big crowd of people. I know it's only Tuesday, but if you hear it now, you'll remember it for the next time you go out to party and unwind from a long week. If you haven't heard it before, please save it for a time when you can play it really loudly. Trust me, it's worth it. I love when the beat drops at 2:00. Too good. Thank you, Shazam!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5PfYX2q0cI

A far l'amore comincia tu

Bob Sinclar feat. Raffaella Carra - Far L'Amore

Today I took a break from my January playlist, and went back to my August playlist. I do that sometimes because older playlists take me back to another time, and I remember all of the things I associate with those songs. I had this song on my Europe playlist and didn't really start to like it until the last bit of the trip. It's funny how that happens; you could be indifferent about a song for quite a while and then hearing it at one moment in particular makes you love it forever. I remember hearing it in Paris while up on the Eiffel tower, looking at the city below. It was a bit after midnight and it was playing at a party on the river way below us, but we could hear it so clearly. How can you not love a song when you associate it with being in Paris? To be honest, I do think this track is hit or miss, but if you want to give it a fair try, the only way to play it is on real speakers. No laptop speakers or earbuds allowed. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMYfEFJVjCU

Twitter @stereoheartfm

But I never learned enough to listen to the voice that told me: Always love, hate will get you every time

Nada Surf - Always Love

I love songs that offer good advice. Here's one you can listen to when you're frustrated from the problems and decisions that come up all the time. It's got a nice positive vibe to it; suitable for the lyrics. We all feel overwhelmed at times; some more often than others. But it's important to take a step back and remember that most situations are only as big as you make them. Enjoy the track!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ulU08Se7Qs

Below is the scene from OTH where I first heard this song. In it, Lucas quotes Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Since it relates to the song's message and the scene's message, I thought I'd add it to this post: "Look not mournfully to the past; it comes not back again. Wisely improve the present; it is thine. Go forth to meet the shadowy future, without fear."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fULx2ghHhtI

Twitter @stereoheartfm

Slow down, this night's a perfect shade of dark blue. Have you ever been alone in a crowded room? Well, I'm here with you.

Jack's Mannequin - Dark Blue

So my best music source, One Tree Hill, is in its final season - 13 more episodes to go. Since that show has a special place in my heart, I may as well do an OTH tribute. Once a week until the Series Finale, I'll try and post one song I first heard on the show, and the scene that it played in. Even if you don't watch the show, you're still in for a treat, because the music from that show is wonderful. If you do watch the show, this will be a nice trip down memory lane, memories being in no particular order.

Here's a playful and energetic track, with some interesting lyrics. I'm going to stop myself from sounding ridiculous trying to analyze the lyrics, but I would say the gist is that it is easy to forget to how to stop and enjoy a moment among all the chaos that is life. Hope you love it like I do!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQOIJDE3RhA&ob=av2e

For you OTH viewers, the link below is the scene "Dark Blue" plays in. One of the best parts of OTH is the narratives. Whitey's words in this scene are just lovely, so I wanted to share some of them:

"...when you find yourself lost in the darkness of despair, remember it's only in the black of night you can see the stars, and those stars will lead you back home...Maybe you'll get everything you wished for, maybe you'll get more than you ever could imagine. Who knows where life will take you, the road is long, and in the end, the journey is the destination."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5kNiMQ0zs4

P.S. For blog updates, follow me on Twitter @stereoheartfm

And I don't even need your love, but you treat me like a stranger and it feels so rough.

Walk Off The Earth - Somebody That I Used To Know (Gotye Cover)

This post is for those who have not viewed the video that is the current YouTube craze: a 5-member cover band playing one guitar. It is a must-see. Due to its complex simplicity and the fact that it screams the word "talent" makes this the best cover song I have ever heard. The chorus vocals are my favourite part - what a voice...and what great emotion. This video has also drawn a lot of much-deserved attention to the original track by Gotye. It's funny because Gotye is a multi-instrumental musician and this cover has multiple musicians playing one instrument. I commend Gotye for an amazing track with strong and relatable lyrics; I do like the cover better though. I hope you enjoy this as much as I do (and the other 10 million people that have watched it). The best part is, at the end of the video, you hear one of them say "I think we got it."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9NF2edxy-M

Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane, hey hey.

Angus And Julia Stone - Big Jet Plane (Stern Disco Remix)

The original version of this song is lovely on its own, but add a little more beats and melody and it reaches a whole new level. It's pretty addictive; the type of song that can be on repeat for hours and still have a mesmerizing effect on the listener. Great for late-night cruising. Also a nice accompaniment to Sunday night blues. It can also be a soothing lullaby if you're having trouble sleeping. A versatile track!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eF8S7TfqFYU

New kicks give me cushion like whoopie, keep a smile like an Eat'n Park cookie

Mac Miller - Knock Knock

Since I heard this song on HBO's 24/7: The Road To The Winter Classic, I've been paying more attention to Mac Miller. I should have been listening to him earlier because he's super talented and I like his youthful swagger! I'm sure the fact that the Flyers use this track as a victory song made it catch my attention (Side note: I was rooting for the Rangers in the Winter Classic). Either way, it's a fun song that people of all music tastes can enjoy.
I've only recently come to really appreciate rappers; fitting in so many witty lyrics in the short time span of a song is not easy. And making sure they're audible makes it even more difficult. The thing about rap music is that the music has less of a role in the song; it's like a backdrop to the main attraction - the words. I love trying to figure out what's being said and noticing all the references and rhymes. Anyway, have fun with this one. Hope you keep it on repeat.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bMmhKz6KXg

Flyers jammin' out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3__p9j261g

So this is the new year, and I don't feel any different.

Death Cab For Cutie - The New Year


So this is the new year, and I don't feel any different.
The clanking of crystal, explosions off in the distance.
So this is the new year, and I have no resolutions for self-assigned penance, for problems with easy solutions.
So everybody put your best suit or dress on. Let's make believe that we are wealthy for just this once. Lighting firecrackers off on the front lawn, as thirty dialogues bleed into one.


The melancholy of this song has got me thinking. I don't think it's pessimistic; the music doesn't say pessimism. To me, it sounds more like an epiphany: "This is the new year...and it's insignificant." The lyrics perfectly describe how a lot of people, including myself, feel every January 1st. I think it's how anyone would feel if they didn't plan to change their mindset for the upcoming year, or set real resolutions that require effort to achieve. The celebrations are meaningful to those who want them to be. A new year represents what you want it to represent. Some use it as a starting point for new goals; a chance to make significant changes in themselves for the better. Some don't make any changes; they just await and look forward to the new experiences that will come their way. Others just consider it a change in what they write when they write down the date. What does the start of 2012 mean to you?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSgHGFuPNus&ob=av2e