From the Front Row...

Album Review - Lifehouse "Smoke & Mirrors"

2010-03-23T20:06:00.004-04:00

Lifehouse has been gracing the world with their music for ten years. Their decade anniversary kicks off with their 5th studio album, Smoke & Mirrors. This album, in the band's opinion, is supposed to carry the essence of their live show into the studio and capture what they do on stage and what they do in the studio. I think they've achieved this, and more.

It's hard for any band, especially those who have been under a label's thumb, to continually create an album that is different from any previous album they've produced. The more albums a band or artist makes, the tougher this becomes, and I don't believe musicians truly understand this until it's happened. Smoke & Mirrors, still sounds like Lifehouse, but with a twist of Americana, upbeat dance tempos, and collaborations with different songwriters.

1.) All In

"I spent a week away from you last night."

The kick off song into this album is true Lifehouse. High energy, pure emotion, and a great sound. I recently saw them perform this song twice live, and it's a great set opener as well. A song that's about being fully committed to a person, or situation in your life and not sitting on the sidelines any longer. All the energy of this song proves this idea.

2.) Nerve Damage

"I see through clothes. Your nerve damage shows."

My favorite song on the album that reminds me of songs off of their sophomore album, Stanley Climbfall. The soft, sensual whispered verses set you up for the pounding chorus that makes up want to jump out of your chair.

3.) Had Enough

"Lost my mind thinking it through. The light inside has left me too. Now I know what empty is. I've had enough, had enough of this."

At first listen, I thought this really sounds like a Daughtry song, which makes since Chris Daughtry co-wrote this. I like the sound of it more and more with each listen, and then I looked at the lyrics, and the song clicked. The lyrics are the most important thing for me, and every word in this song says what I'm feeling every day. Great sound and great lyrics.

4.) Halfway Gone

"You've got one foot out the door, and choking on the other."

The first single off of the album is catchy with a great tempo that will make you want to dance along. This song had to grow on me a little. It's a typical radio-friendly song, but this what Lifehouse is good at, making singles, and this is no exception. This song live, blew my mind. Lifehouse is a tremendous live band, and I hear more people say so after they view them for the first time.

5.) It Is What It Is

"You said it, I get it. I guess it is what it is."

This is a good song about a relationship at that point where it's uncomfortably comfortable. Both parties have been with each other so long, that they deny the problems they have. This song is still growing on me. I like it better live; it sounds more pure. The album version has background vocals and effects I'm not fond of.

6.) From Where You Are

"I miss the years that were erased. I miss the way the sunshine would light up your face."

This song was written for an Allstate commercial on teen driving. I really think it's a beautifully sad song that is used to wake teens up about safe driving. That being said, I don't like that it's on this album, especially right in the middle. It's really the only song on the album that doesn't go with the theme. I think it should have been a b-side and one of the extra songs put in its place. Good song, but not for the album.

7.) Smoke & Mirrors

"And we are with everything we ever wanted. But now, we're together alone."

The title track is a nice salute to Americana music that tells a story of a couple who moves away from everything they knew and were, wanting more and more. Now they have everything they wanted, but end up missing the old days. I love this song. I think it's very true of not just relationships, but what we want, in general. We're so convinced if we have all these things, we'll be happy...until we actually get them and find out, we're still lost.

8.) Falling In

"Every time I see your face, my heart takes off on a high-speed chase."

A very nice love song. Jason is very good at these, and Falling In is no different. Not one of my favorites on the album, but fits in just fine and is there for all the people in-love to rock to.

9.) Wrecking Ball

"And through it all, I gravitate to you."

This is the first time a Lifehouse song is not being sung by Jason Wade. Bryce Soderberg, the band's bassist, steps up to take over lead vocals, and he does a wonderful job. This is a fun song lyrically and musically. One of my favorites. (Side note: The random claps at the end are the guys cheering Bryce on for singing lead for the first time.)

10.) Here Tomorrow Gone Today

"You're all talk and nothing to say."

This is the song to divide Lifehouse fans. I have to say, it's probably the most different from what Lifehouse usually sounds like, which depending on your opinion, could be a good or bad thing. I find you either like or hate it. It has a dance-beat in the background that make it perfect to hear in the background of a dance club. It took some time, but I actually like it. Lifehouse took a pretty big risk with this song, and I for one, love that they aren't afraid to try something new. It has attitude and harsh vocals from Mr. Wade. I'm really, really, really curious to hear this live, and will probably have to wait till the headlining tour, but that's okay.

11.) Be By Your Side

"I will be by your side, when all hope is died, I'll still be around."

A nice song that was actually written and dedicated to a fan who was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The band invited her into the studio and played this song for her. Sadly, she passed away two weeks later. She is described as a friendly positive person. I love this story because it shows the kind of people Lifehouse is comprised of.

12.) In Your Skin

"Wake up, take a breath, remember why you're even breathing."

The closing track is pure Lifehouse. The lyrics speak to life and picking up the piecing and starting over. The melody is infectious, and the lyrics true. This is what Lifehouse does best, and it's a great way to close the album.

Concert Review - Switchfoot

2009-12-15T15:13:00.003-05:00

2009 - A Bad Year...

...And hardly any live shows. It came to the point where I was searching every venue in Philadelphia looking for someone I remotely knew. Fortunately in November, I discovered that Switchfoot would be releasing a new album, Hello Hurricane on November 10th with a tour to follow, and there was a Philly date. Thank God. Now I wonder, "Why have I never seen these guys live before?" I have a couple albums (I need to get the rest) and I love them. Before tickets even went on sale, I was planning to go. I needed to hear live music again.

I received a copy of Hello Hurricane in the mail and proceeded to listen. Let me tell you something, if you haven't listened to it yet, what are you doing with you life? Best album of 2009 for me.

The day of the show came, and ended up being a very cold day. I went to the venue around 5 to start lining up. I really wanted to get front row, but for some reason this venue doesn't like us. I've only had it once and Kate has never had front row at TLA. Tonight would be no different. I asked the man at the box office if we could start lining up and he informed me that because of a fan club privilege, about 80 people would be allowed in before doors. What? 80 people? That's ridiculous. I have a problem with people paying for front row...but that's another topic. So I called Kate and told her the bad news. We decided to go up in the balcony that we were in for Jack's Mannequin; it's a nice view of the stage and has great sound quality. She picked me up at my apartment around 7 and we went to park her car in a garage. We waited in the regular line for a half an hour and then went in at 8. We got a nice spot in the balcony and eagerly awaited the show. NO OPENER! 2 hours of Switchfoot.

The set was incredible. Switchfoot is an amazing live band, and Jon Foreman is an extremely talented songwriter, performer, and musician. He started the show on the back wall dividing an over 21 area from the GA. Throughout the show he walked through the many bodies (very brave) and even came up to the balcony to sing. He covered that venue very well.

Setlist:

(the entire HH album start to finish)

Needle and Haystack Life
Mess of Me
Your Love Is A Song
The Sound
Enough To Let Me Go
Free - video
Hello Hurricane
Always
Bullet Soul
Yet
Sing It Out - video
Red Eyes

Jon said, "That's the end of the album. We'll be be back!"

Second Set:

Chem 6A
Stars - a couple guys from the audience had a sign that asked if they could play stars with the guys, so they brought them up on stage. they were really good.
Oh! Gravity
Let That Be Enough - love this song - video
Evergreen - first time they've ever played this live - video
This Is Your Life - Jon came up to the balcony and sang
Dare You To Move - stayed up and sang down to the audience

Encore:

Awakening
Love Is The Movement/ Meant to Live

The concert was amazing. I only wish I was closer. There's always that connection that's missing when you're not up front, and that's my only complaint of the night. I'm 2010 is much better in general, but especially for live shows.

Switchfoot - Hello Hurricane

2009-11-26T11:57:00.005-05:00

This semester, well, this entire year, has been a bit slow in the concert department. I've spent many hours scouring the Internet for any show near me, but always came up short. I was lucky enough to see that Switchfoot is coming to Philadelphia in December. This is a band I've been listening to for a while, but never had the opportunity to see live. I saw that they are in support of a new album, Hello Hurricane, that was released November 10th. Most people recognize Switchfoot from their monstrous hit album The Beautiful Letdown that sparked hits such as Meant to Live, and Dare You to Move. The band has released many albums over their career, and after listening, and listening, and listening some more to their newest release, I have to say that this is truly one of their best.

1.) Needle and Haystack Life

"You're a needle girl, in a haystack world."

The kick-off song on the album stresses the hard times in life and getting through them by finding someone to share the burden with. A strong start full of heavy guitars and energy.

2.) Mess of Me

"I am my own affliction. I am my own disease. There ain't no drug that they could sell, there ain't no drug to make me well."

The first single off of the album, Mess of Me is another heavy guitar-based song that is determined to fix one's life after all the mistakes that have damaged the soul. This change can't be reached by simply taking medication, it needs a deeper change from within.

3.) Your Love is a Song

"Your love is a melody, underneath me, running to me. Your love is a song."

Although it's hard to pick one, I'd probably say that this is my favorite song off the album. I could easily see it being a popular single. The song is a gentle, yet strong love song that is unlike any other I've heard of recent years. The narrator is completely consumed in love with another person, and can see his love in everything around him.

4.) The Sound (John M. Perkins' Blues)

"The static comes alive, beneath the broken skies. John Perkins said it right, love is the final fight."

A punchy fast-paced song with a great beat that will make you dance around your apartment and annoy your neighbors (trust me).

5.) Enough to Let Me Go

"All I know, I still got mountains to climb on my own."

A slow song that asks the question, 'do you love me enough to let me go?' I think a lot of people become so wrapped up in being with someone that they forget to find out who they are. This is a wonderful song expressing that you should tackle your own problems before adding those of another person into the mix.

6.) Free

"Inside this shell is a prison cell."

This is my second favorite on the album. Amazing guitar and percussion. This is all about being tied down by problems, insecurities from within and waiting for the day that your chains will be broken open. Waiting to be free.

7.) Hello Hurricane

"I've got doors and windows boarded up. All your dead end fury is not enough. You can't silence my love."

The title track states what this album is all about. Despite all these problems discussed in other songs, this one acknowledges the storm in life and says, I'm not going to let you ruin my life. A fun jumpy beat that will please anyone who listens.

8.) Always

"Every breath is a second chance."

Another slower track with a beautiful melody. This song speaks to the beginning and origin of people's pain, and being there for them.

9.) Bullet Soul

"I want to sing one for all the dreamers."

A fun, fast, and rocking song that praises those who have passion and dreams. We're all in this battle together.

10.) Yet

"If it doesn't break your heart, it isn't love. If it doesn't break your heart, it's not enough. It's when you're breaking down with your insides coming out, that's when you find out what your heart is made of. And you haven't lost me yet."

This is a truly beautiful song about hanging in there when you feel so completely lost and heart-broken. I love the above section because so many people think they're never going to get over a heart-break, but they do. Was it love to begin with?

11.) Sing It Out

"Sing it out. Take what is left of me. Make it a melody. Sing it out. Sing out-loud. I can't find the words to sing. You'd be my remedy, my song. I'll sing with what's left of me."

And here we have my third favorite song. An absolutely amazing song. Slow, with a final climax that is the climb we've been reaching for the entire album. This song is how music makes me feel; it's a release of so many emotions that I can't always express, and yet, I'll find the perfect words in song. Anyone who feels this way should listen to this song.

12.) Red Eyes

"Every now and then I see you reaching, reaching for the other side."

This is a great closing song with a sort of back and forth questioning and answering. 'What are you looking for?' is the common question that I feel describes many people, including myself. We have to go out and make things happen, even if we're alone and haven't the faintest clue what we're doing.

Hello Hurricane is an album about struggle, love, determination, and hope. It's about getting through the hard times and knowing that eventually the storm clouds will disperse.

I'm very excited to see Switchfoot live in December and will report my thoughts...to myself.

MoZella - Belle Isle

2009-11-20T09:08:00.004-05:00

So it's been a while since I've posted anything on here...but that's perfectly alright since I'm pretty sure no one actually reads this. In conclusion, I'm the only one affected by this, and it really hasn't affected me at all. But, I've picked up a few new albums over the months and would like to share thoughts--with myself.

MoZella (Maureen McDonald) is a wonderful artist and person in general. Her music is soulful, playful, and delightful. She released her sophomore album, Belle Isle, on October 2oth under a new studio, Universal Motown Records.

1.) Freezing

"And the darkness outside is a mirror to my eyes, ‘cause my soul won’t reflect any light."

This song is all about being lonely and out in the cold. It's probably one of my favorite songs on the album. It's quiet and mysterious, but completely identifiable. Makes a strong start to the record.

2.) Stay

"Before you take off running away, I have got something to say. Why don't you stay?"

There's a common theme of relationship woes on this album, and this song is one of the heavy ones. MoZella must've had many bad relationships to be so inspired. The beat is smooth and catchy and instantly becomes a memorable track.

3.) Luv Sik

"Doctor, doctor, you don't have to cure me from this pain that I'm feeling."

Another song on relationship woes that leave the narrator feeling literally, "luv sik." Catchy, spunky , and fluid. I like the song, but I tend to forget where it is on the album, so it's not one of the more memorable or original tracks, although I understand what she's saying, completely.

4.) More of You

"You're a door I can't close without running late."

Immediately, you'll listen to this song and find yourself doing upper-body side-to-side rolls, (if you can understand what the hell I'm talking about). A song that basically states attraction to a person you wish you weren't attracted to, but every time you see them, you want more.

5.) Manhattan

"I've got $200, a guitar, and a coat. Yeah, I hear it gets cold there, but I'm already froze."

A song about picking up and starting over. It includes an infectious chorus and basically tells everyone 'she's moving to Manhattan, and never looking back.'

6.) Let's Stop Calling It Love

"I guess I had a choice. Boys will be boys, and this girl's annoyed."

Here's good advice for anyone in a crappy one-sided relationship just for the sake of being "with someone." Just stop. Get out.

7.) 4 Leaf Clover

"Always just a friend, never a lover. I'm the one they call for good advice."

This song came out around the end of her first album. I liked it then and absolutely love it now. Not only is it catchy, but so true. From a girl who's always been the friend, if that, I love this song. But that's not the end; she's gonna step up and go for someone instead of waiting for him to come to her.

8.) Hurry Up & Choose

"If things were good at home, you wouldn't come to me with those loving eyes."

So we all know what it's like to be interested in someone who's already involved with someone else. Story of my life. Here, he's with someone else, but has feelings for the narrator. Now he has to choose.

9.) Uh-Uh

"Oh, wow, what a surprise you're out all night. I neatly threw your stuff on the lawn. Hope that's alright."

Lovely lyrics and back and forth pandering between MoZella and guest vocals from Marty James of One Block Radius. To put it simply, she's not taking his shit anymore.

10.) Thank You

"You fight off my enemies. You take a bullet for me, and you know I'd do the same for you."

A fun catchy song that you've probably heard in a commercial or two. A very nicely arranged song for simply saying 'thank you' to anyone who you love and who's been there for you.

11.) Twilight Girls

"I'm so sorry that it's come to this. I'm so sorry that the world is such a mess. But God don't love you any less."

The slowest and closing song on the album. I real look at the world and violence going on all around, even in quiet communities and the 'twilight girls' who are trying to protect their families from it.

Overall, a very strong, soulful, and poppy record. A great build from her debut album I Will. I recommend both, and be sure to check MoZella out live, she's a sweetheart.

Concert Review: The Fray

2009-07-19T14:41:00.006-04:00

The Fray @ Time Warner Cable Amphitheater

I knew about The Fray's summer tour for a while and wanted to attend very much since I hadn't seen them for two years. I have to admit though, when I heard Jack's Mannequin was one of the openers, I was a tad nervous. I've been feeling really dizzy in public places as of late, I'm pretty sure my crowd phobia is escalating into a anxiety disorder, and I know how bitchy Fray fans are and pushy Jack's fans can be---so I wasn't sure if I should go to this or not. Also, money is tight, even more so now that my roommate left me, so paying over $50 for a ticket wasn't looking to hot. I was flipping channels on the radio and heard an ad on 106.5 to win Fray tickets on their website. I thought, 'what the heck' and did it that night. The beauty of it was you could enter your name as many times as you wanted. I checked back on Monday and discovered that I was one of the winners. I asked my friend, Danielle, who saw them with me the first time 30 rows back. She had to work until five, but would meet me afterwards.

My mom dropped me off at the amphitheater around 3pm, and there were a group of people already in line. I figured there would be. I had to wait for my tickets, since the box office said the station hadn't dropped them off yet. I mostly just sat and waited, ate some food, drank some water, eventually picked up my tickets. The gate opened about 5:30. I was happy to hear that they were allowing cameras because the last time I saw The Fray there, they weren't allowed and I had to give the staff my batteries...grrrr. I rushed to the stage---safely rushed, of course---and got front row towards the left. I was happy to have open space in front of me and something to hold onto so people couldn't cut in front (which fray fans are notorious for) and in case there was a lot of pushing. Danielle was having some trouble finding the place. She finally arrived right before the first opener came on, and I was able to save her a spot.

Richard Swift came on at 7 and played for half an hour. He was pretty good. Nothing too memorable, but not bad.

Jack's Mannequin came on about 8. I would say half the crowd was there to see them. They are always wonderful to watch and listened to--great energy and sound. I've never seen them from front row, so this was a treat. And the fans weren't pushy! yay! They played for a good hour.

The set up for The Fray was relatively quick. They were set by 9:15, but of course we can't just go when we're ready (one of the main annoyances about concerts I don't understand). After waiting what felt like an eternity, they came out at 9:30.

They played (not all in the right order):

Intro of Happiness

Over My Head

She Is

Absolute

Say When (my fav off the new album)

How To Save A Life

UnGodly Hour

Enough For Now

Little House (amazing live omg)

Syndicate

We Build Then We Break

Look After You

Never Say Never

You Found Me

Heaven Forbid (joe alone)

Heartless (amazing cover)

All At Once

Happiness

For half the show, Isaac just sang without playing the piano. I thought this was very cool, and he could come to the edge of the stage and sing out to the audience. It was crazy to be that close. The lighting was phenomenal. They always have very creative lights and sound. It was really a great show, and for free? Even better. Afterwards, we went to get something to eat. The only thing open was IHOP, so we got some grub and headed home. Great show, and I'm glad I got to go.

Concert Review: No Doubt

2009-07-06T07:59:00.005-04:00

No Doubt @ Blossom Music Center

I've been a fan of this band for a while and always wanted to see them live. Then they took a time-out and Gwen did a solo career. I was so happy when I heard that they were getting back together for a summer tour, and knew I had to go.I invited my friend Angie, who's also a big fan of theirs, and of music in general. Strangely enough, we'd never been to a concert together--many trials and errors, but tonight work out.

Angie picked me up a little after four, and we headed out. Blossom is in Cuyahoga Falls which is about 45 minutes from Parma. It took us a little longer due to difficulties with directions. After going back and forth on country roads, we stopped at a gas station and the woman there was a big help. We finally arrived closed to six. I got us lawn tickets because they were only $10. Deal. Blossom is set up with the stage and pavillion seats under a huge covering and then lots of lawn space. We waitied around a little bit before they let us in at 6:30. Swarms of people flocked to their seats and stretched across the lawn. We made a spot for ourselves around the middle. We sat and caught up on each others lives. We went to high school together and we agree that there are two types of people; high school and college people. These people make long lasting friendships in either/or. We have a very close group of friends from high school whom I love seeing whenever I can. College...not so much. My friends from college are people I go to shows with who don't attend my University. Ha.

At 7:30 on the dot, the first opener, Bedouin Soundclash, came on. They were pretty good. I'd describe them as Jamacian music meets rock. But after a while, all the songs started to all sound the same.

At 8:15 Paramore came out to a very excited crowd. I'd say about half the crowd (of 22,000 people) were hardcore Paramore fans. They were good. I know a couple of their songs from the radio, but that's really it. Their female lead singer had great stage presence and was very thankful we were all there.The clouds were rolling in all night, but luckily we only experience minor drizzles.

No Doubt came on around 9:30 to a roaring crowd of 22,000 music lovers. I'm forgetting some songs but they played:

Spiderwebs

Hella Good

Excuse Me, Mister

A Simple Kind of Life

Ex-Girlfriend

New

Bath Water

Underneath It All

Hey Baby

It's My Life

Running

Just A Girl

Sunday Morning

Don't Speak

and three or four songs I'm forgetting.

They were amazing. The stage was all white with a front drop at the beginning. They each came out one by one so their shadows showed up eventually together and then was pulled down. The back screens played images and music videos they had created for the tour. Lots of color. Gwen has amazing stage presence---actually they all do. At one point she was talking to the audience and saw a sign a guy had that he wasn't leaving without a picture with her, so she told him to get on stage and they took a picture. We had fun in the back, and they were very good about acknowledging us. It was really incredible to see that many people in one place.They played for a good two hours. We made our way through the sea of people and back over to our car. After a very frightening ride home of wrong turns and near death side collision, we made it back home safe and sound. Thank God.

Cavashawn (White)

2009-06-23T16:40:00.002-04:00

Cavashawn released their much anticipated sophomore EP, Cavashawn (White), June 17th. The EP includes five new songs recorded in Santa Monica, CA earlier this year. With the help of producer Jim Wirt, Cavashawn has spawned yet another cluster of musical cohesion that continues where their first EP, Cavashawn (Black), left off.

1.) All The Lonely Girls

"All the lonely girls, all around the world, sing the saddest song tonight."

The song kicks off the EP much like Out of My Mind did for their first. Heavy guitar and a great rhythm makes any lonely girl rock out to a song honoring her plight.

2.) Keep The Light On

"I've been gone the longest time. It seems that you're no longer mine. I told you that when I return, the love I have for you will burn."

A punchy rock ballad with vocals and melody that reminds the listener of love songs from the 50's. Easily the best song on the EP with a rhythm one will find themselves slowly swaying their their hips and other such body parts.

3.) Secret Satisfaction

"I'm your secret satisfaction. Short on words, but long on action."

A song about what every guy should want in a relationship; all action. Yet the narrator's opinion seems to shift in the middle asking, "Am I your man? Or just another good time?" A highly fun and intriguing song, smartly written with a surprising twist that maybe even guys want more to a relationship than just "high action."

4.) The Day You Forgot About Me

"It was sometime last September, when the leaves fell down from the trees. Yeah, the only day I remember is the day you forgot about me."

This is some bad week. Going from day to day knowing the person you're with is, to steal a phrase, not that into you. A strong vibrate song, with melancholy themes. Who could ask for more?

5.) Back To Me

"The sun fades, I'm too late. A boy in a man's game."

While I think the songwriting in this one is intelligent and catchy, I have to say it's my least favorite on the EP. I like it, but can't find a connection with the story going on. The melody is good, but basically remains at the same level throughout the song. But that's strictly my opinion.

All the hard work that went into making this EP stands out in these five songs. This band has something major to offer the music scene, and it's only a matter of time before some big music guy/gal takes notice. Until then, catch these guys at local spots in the Midwest and East Coast.

www.storenvy.com <--- purchase their EPs and merch

Concert Review: Elton John / Billy Joel

2009-05-25T22:23:00.002-04:00

Elton John + Billy Joel: Face 2 Face Tour @ Quicken & Loans Arena in Cleveland

Wow. That's all I can think of to describe this. Wow. I've seen my fair share of live shows, but I've never seen two "legends" live before. They blow everyone else out of the water.My parents were always really big fans of these two. I've been singing and dancing to their songs since I was little because my parents would always play their records and CDs in the house and on the radio. I guess you could say I'm well cultured in music because of them. When tickets went on sale back in January, my mom gave me her credit card and told me to get us some "cheap seats" for her, me, and my two sisters. I was so excited.

My sister came home from Chicago during the weekend in order to go to the show. She's going to be done with grad school in August, which is plain crazy. We left around 6:15 and made it to downtown Cleveland and park fairly quickly and painlessly. We lined up and went right into the "Q." The place is a-buzz with life due to the excitement over the miraculous last second win by the Cavs in the second game against the Magic. The show was sold out, of course. We made our way to our seats, which because of stupid ticketbastard, had to be bought separately...long story, I was frustrated and that's just how it had to be done. My mom and sisters were in one section over from me, I was right behind the stage in row 3, a very nice spot. A couple came and sat next to me. The woman asked if I was there alone and I laughed and told her my family was in the next section over. They were nice; she said she was there mainly for Billy Joel and her husband for Elton John. I was there for both of them...maybe Elton slightly more than Billy, but only slightly. They came on at 7:30 and began to rock my face.

I can't possibly list all the songs they played, but safe to say all their big hits, some oldies, and a couple Beatles covers. They first came on together and played a few songs together, alternating each other's songs. Then Elton stayed on and played for a good hour. Then Billy came on and played for another good hour. Then they both came on for an encore and played 5-6 songs, alternating once again. Billy is very chatty with the audience while Elton likes to mainly play his music, which is fine by me. By the time it was done I couldn't believe it. It felt so quick, but it had been 3 1/2 hours. (I wish all performers played that long).

I met my mom and sisters in the halls of the stadium. My mom had so much fun. She was dancing and singing and just having a ball, which I'm glad. We all did. They don't go to as many shows as I, so it was nice to get out and experience music together.After the show we were starving, so we went to IHOP near our house, and made it back home some time after 1 am. It was a wonderful night and we all really needed to get out of our house and lives for a few hours. I would love to see them again. I don't know how long they plan to tour, but I'm glad I got to see them while they're still out there doing what they do best.

Concert Review - Gavin Degraw

2009-04-24T23:52:00.004-04:00

I have to admit, I'd never really listened to Gavin Degraw much. I knew some of his songs on the radio, and liked them, but other than that I'd never had the urge to go out and purchase one of his records. A friend of mine, who's a huge fan of his, saw he was coming to Philadelphia on April 22nd and invited me to come. I'm always up for a concert, plus, one of the openers was HoneyHoney (see earlier blogs) whom I love.

We arrived around four and there was already a line. I'm not surprised by this, I'd get in line ten hours early to see some of my favorite bands. The wait was long due to cold and eventual rain pelting down on our shivering bodies. We were let in around seven and made it into second row with short people in front of us (always a plus). After an hour wait, Joey Degraw, Gavin's brother, opened with an acoustic set. I wasn't too impressed. Each song sounded the same as the previous, to me at least.

Next came HoneyHoney. Ben and Suzanne have such great chemistry and always play to the audience. Their songs are a mix of jazz, pop, and blue-grass--not usually the type of music I'm into, but Suzanne is a smart songwriter and Ben is a fabulous musician. They played for a good half-hour, which wasn't nearly enough. They said they would be back by their merch after the set, but we couldn't move from our spots. Unfortunately, they would be gone by the end of the show. I've yet to actually meet them.

Gavin Degraw came on around 9:30 and played for almost two hours. He started out slow and a little quiet for my taste. I had seen videos of his performances before and was surprised. He started to pick up the pace after the second song, and then there was no turning back. His energy was high, playing both piano and guitar. He'd come to the front of the stage and play to the numerous hands reaching up towards him, desperate for contact. His humor also shows, forgetting his lyrics in the middle of one song and trying to look them up on his cell phone. Luckily his guitarist, who was very young and talented, helped him out and he could finish the song. You could tell the crowd really loved and appreciated him. The words to all his songs bounced back from the crowd and returned to the stage. A sold out crowd is always fun.

Afterwards, they were holding a meet & greet for fifty people who bought merch before the show. We hung around until being kicked out, and then debated whether or not to wait around outside. We decided we wanted to meet him, so we went back to my friend's car to get a sweater and blanket. We ran into the drummer walking his dog and got a picture. We sat outside the venue and waited...for over an hour. People with wristband kept coming out and it was getting colder. When we weren't expecting it, Gavin suddenly popped out of the venue on his own and walked right up to us. He thanked us for waiting and was sorry that we had to do it in the cold. He was very nice and signed things for us, as well as taking pictures. It was a great way to end the night. A good show, as well as meeting the artist always puts me in a good mood. And we only got home by 1 am. Ha, that's nothing.

Concert Review - OK Go

2009-03-11T04:54:00.006-04:00

On Friday, March 6th, I saw the band OK Go at the Theater of Living Arts. The show was quite incredible, as expected. I first saw them open up for The Fray in 2007 and was blown away by their live show. They always seem to think of the most creative ways to showcase their music, and Friday was no exception.

The venue was quite crowded as OK Go took the stage. Their set consisted of favorites from their two previous CDs, their debut self-titled album OK Go, and sophomore album Oh No. These few concerts scattered across the East and West Coasts are to debut new songs from their upcoming album. From what I heard, I'm very excited for their new songs. They have their funky energetic beats and rhymes that makes OK Go the unique band they are. A screen in back of the drums catered to video footage of designs, videos, and live close-ups of each band member via the video camera on their mics. Confetti scattered over the audience at high energetic points in the show. The band seemed to be enjoying themselves just as much (if not more) than the audience chanting their lyrics and dancing to their high quality tunes. The high point would have to be when they abandoned their instruments and played "What To Do" with bells--very impressive and hilarious.

For dates check out their myspace: www.myspace.com/okgo

Ipods vs. CDs - The War Continues

2009-02-19T15:03:00.004-05:00

(photo by: LinzyWoods22)

Do you still own a CD player?

Well, you're not alone, my friend. I'm with you 100%, and surprisingly, there are more of us out there than you'd think. As I walk the streets of Philadelphia, I notice more and more people with the "90's" form of musical entertainment. But why do we prefer our CD players? Why are Ipods considered an upgrade? Let's review.

The Ipod

Considered to be for the "music freak," can hold a shit load of music all in one tiny box. All your music, right there in your pocket. The sound is "amazing" and doesn't have that nasty ability to skip while walking down the street. It can fit easily anywhere. It has the ability to shuffle albums, show videos, be an alarm, has an equalizer, play games, watch tv shows, and do your laundry...well not yet, but I hear they're working on it.

The CD Player

Ok, so my CD player doesn't have all my music on it. I have to manually take out my current CD , put in another, and push play---I might die of exhaustion. While I do see how having all your music with you is very cool, I don't understand why on earth a person would need 15,000+ songs with them at all times. Where are you going that you need that much of a song selection? Walking down to work or class usually only fits in 4-5 songs depending on the distance. And what happens when that ipod breaks or becomes defective? You really didn't think they made these things to last forever, did you? Now having your entire music collection isn't looking to hot. When my CD player breaks, I pay, at most, $20 to get a new one. I don't want to know how much an ipod costs. I don't care, it's too much. There's also something to be said about having "tangible" music. I like displaying my CDs and their booklets with their pretty artwork, lyrics, and artist information in my leaflit. That's a true "music freak," being proud of what you own. Now, don't get me wrong. I understand the annoying parts of a CD player...skipping, scratches on the CD, your player skipping back to the beginning during its last moments of life. I get it. But really, that's not enough to make me want to spend an ton of money to buy an Ipod.

For the music industry, downloading is the devil. Now you can buy a single instead of the entire album or just rip them off the internet. Record stores are vanishing left and right, and it's sad. There might be a time soon where they decide to be rid of CDs all together, and I for one will be sad. No matter what you like more, it's important to know why one works for you. I love my CDs and could never imagine cheating on them with the slutty ipod. But do as you will.

Band Spotlight - HoneyHoney

2009-02-11T11:57:00.002-05:00

I first saw this band opening up for my favorite musical artist, Lifehouse, and was amazed by their musical talents. The band consists of two members, Suzanne Santo (vocals, violin, banjo) and Ben Jaffe (guitar), who met because of a mutual friend in the musical industry. The band's music can be described as pop/blue grass/jazz/folk rock, but the most important aspect of making music to both members is to tell a story with each song they write. Their quirky senses of humor and dedications to their instruments not only make them entertaining to listen to, but also to watch live. The two reside in Venice, CA under the Kiefer Sutherland and Jude Cole owned label, Ironworks, and have seen success with their EP Loose Boots and brand spankin' first album, First Rodeo. Their first single, "Little Toy Gun", and be heard on the local California stations.

A band with spunk, laughs, and damn good music. Check them out at:

www.myspace.com/honeyhoneyband

The Fray - Take Two

2009-02-04T23:25:00.005-05:00

The Fray released their sophomore self-titled album yesterday to an anxious group of music junkies. The group (Isaac, Joe, Ben, and Dave) debuted in 2005 with their multi-platinum album How To Save A Life. They left us hanging in the summer of 2007, saying they were returning to the studio to record new songs. Probably a relief to them as well as their fans, after playing practically the same 12 songs (with some new ones here and there) for over two years. Now the long and miserable wait is over. Fans can sit/lie down, put on their headphones, crank up the volume, and away they go into the depths of musical bliss.

Track #1 - Syndicate

"Halfway around the world lies the one thing that you want."

Syndicate is a nice start to the album. It definity screams potential single to me. The soft guitar and piano blend well and push the listener into a friendly, sunny environment. You can't help but sway back and forth to this song.

Track #2 - Absolute

"It's a kiss that sits upon her lips that waits for planes and battleships."

This song appeared in the setlists from the summer of 2007, and I'm happy to see it on the album. The song, to me, is about noticing something about a relationship that needs further investigation, but people are quick to give up on someone just because the current circumstances aren't perfect yet. The music and lyrics are strong and direct.

Track #3 - You Found Me

"I found God on the corner of First and Amistad."

This is the first single off of the band's album, and is already on the top of charts. I can't help but think of this song as someone so lost that they commit suicide. I've heard many interpretations and none have gone as far as mine, but one thing we all agree on is that this song is about being alone and not having anyone there to help you. "You Found Me," though sounding hopeful with it's title, is actually negative in that "You found me...just a little late."

Track #4 - Say When

"You been the song playing on the background all along, but you're turning up now."

I can easily say that this is my favorite track on the album. It's long, rough, mysterious, and sexy. I love how it starts out slow and builds tempo till the end, becoming faster and faster. It builds up this situation into the climax the listener is waiting for. I never want to "say when" when this song is on. I don't want it to end.

Track #5 - Never Say Never

"Some things we don't talk about/Rather do without and just hold the smile."

This song took a few listens to really appreciate. It slows down the momentum of "Say When," but in a good, necessary way. This song makes me feel very young, desperate, and lost, but not in the same way as "You Found Me." Lost in the sense that I, like many people my age, have absolutely no idea what we're suppose to be doing, so we go along with the schedules and the routines to make it appear we have some hold on our lives. It's one of the biggest charades of young adulthood.

Track #6 - Where The Story Ends

"Trying not to lose my head/But I have never been this scared before."

This song was a favorite with me from the beginning because it reminded me of when I first left for college--actually, everytime I leave home, I feel like this. It's a song about being far away from the ones you love and wondering where the time went. Anyone who's had to leave home will identify with this song.

Track #7 - Enough For Now

"He should've never left you broken/He should've held you/Things your father never could do."

Any girl with daddy issues will identify with this song. It describes a situation where a father wanted a son, and got a daughter instead. They're relationship goes downhill from there. This song is very smart in that it describes a sour situation that the songwriter is withdrawn from, but knows exactly what to say. Great song.

Track #8 - Ungodly Hour

"Tomorrow finds the best way out is through."

This is the only song that Joe (guitar;backing vocals) sings. I think this was a good choice for his vocals; they're a little deeper and richer than Isaac's, and the sound fits the mood. A setting of a relationship/marriage on the rocks, with the woman packing her bags and leaving. The narrator wants to set things right, but can't. It's a truly moving song that I'm sure many couples who've been through similar situations, will like very much.

Track #9 - We Build Then We Break

"Cause I'll be two steps behind/You will not know what's got you/Oh, so you're sorry now/All is not well, it's not ended."

My second favorite song on the album. For some reason, the second last song on their albums seem to be reserved for the darker songs, and I love them. Like "Little House" on HTSAL, this describes an act of violence, only this time the narrator takes it in his own hands to get rid of a guy who hurt a girl close to him. Dark, twisted, amazing.

Track #10 - Happiness

"Happiness it's like the old man told me/Look for it and you'll never find it all/But let it go, live your life and leave it/Then one day you'll wake up and she'll be home."

Another song that the band had been playing at shows before they went into the studio. I've been a fan of it since then. Isaac loses the piano and takes lead on acoustic guitar. The song is a real account of how happiness is not as gentle or easy as people make it seem. A pleasant surprise is the kick-in of drums and electric guitar at the climax of the song, making it more powerful, if that were possible.

This album, according to the band, was self-titled because they felt it expressed who they were as musicians and accomplished everthing that wasn't on HTSAL. I think they've done just that. The only disappointing thing about this album is that it's a mere ten songs when it should be at least twelve or more.

Introduction

2009-02-04T02:15:00.000-05:00

I never thought I'd actually have a blog. It's for people with too much time on their hands. Well, times have changed and I'm required to start one by law...or my media industries professor. The bloggin' that will be going down will consist of something I'm extremely passionate about--music. Come here to read my latest reviews and thoughts on albums, artists, and live shows.