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September 2010
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Katy Perry: Maybe it's the cotton candy scent? Katy Perry's cotton candy-scented 'Teenage Dream' Ra Ra Riot releases new album 'The Orchard' What we're listening to: "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World" soundtrack The changer: What we're listening to this week Christian heavy rockers Red unveil video for Ordinary World The changer: What we're listening to this week Categories
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September 1, 2010
That's a pretty paltry number when you think about it, even by today's low CD sales standards. Eminem's Recovery moved 741,000 copies its first week at retail. Drake's Thank Me Later sold 462,989 during its inaugural week. Even Sade, the jazz-R&B chanteuse who doesn't have a smidgen of Perry's pop culture pizazz, came in with 501,000 copies sold of her Soldier of Love disc, according to Nielsen SoundScan. What does this mean for Perry? It probably means that she's mainly a singles artist. Her record label can't be happy that she can generate excitement for individual songs, not full albums. Cotton candy-scented or otherwise. Photo: The CD cover of Katy Perry's Teenage Dream (AP Photo/Capitol Records).
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The entry "Katy Perry: Maybe it's the cotton candy scent? "
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California Gurls
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Drake
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Eminem
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Katy Perry
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Sade
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Teenage Dream
August 31, 2010
It may surprise you to know that, even though Katy Perry's "California Gurls" has been dominating radio waves all summer, the album that boasts the single was only just released last Tuesday.
But smells aside, the album is a solid effort, even if it isn't outstanding. Teenage Dream, Perry's second album (but really, her third) has more of the same fun and fancy-free pop perfection we've come to expect from her. Lead singles "Teenage Dream" and "California Gurls" have served us well as the party songs of the summer and they set a standard that the rest of the album struggles to maintain. "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)" rocks an 80s vibe and a chant-along chorus, but it's not exactly my cup of tea.And the album's fourth track, "Firework," is an example of Perry's stellar vocals. But after that, the album alternates between boring (with the exception of the sexually charged "Peacock") and bizarre (the intergalactic love song, "E.T."). It isn't until the last two tracks, "Hummingbird Heartbeat" and "Not Like The Movies," that you come around to more of what the first few tracks promised: Perry's unusual voice belting out some stand-out pop songs. The disc also offers two remixes of its most popular singles. The "California Gurls" remix combines a lot of 8-bit video game noises (which I love) with a weird and deeper version of Perry's voice (which I didn't love). The "Teenage Dream" remix excels, taking the lovesick nostalgia of the original and making it fit for the clubs. If you're a fan of Katy Perry (and if your car needs a new cotton candy-scented air freshener), pick up the disc -but only if you haven't already purchased "Teenage Dream" and "California Gurls" in single form. For our official CD coverage, read Mario Tarradell's weekly Musically Speaking column. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
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August 24, 2010
The Orchard, the second full album from the Syracuse indie rock band, elevates Ra Ra Riot's sunny pop songs with soaring orchestral arrangements that straddle the line between complex and carefree. The Vampire Weekend comparisons are appropriate, considering VW keyboardist/guitarist/vocalist Rostam Batmanglij helped write, produce and mix "Do You Remember," a song in the last half of the album. However, the real standout tracks on The Orchard rest in the middle of the disc. "Too Dramatic" is memorably frenetic, while "Shadowcasting" combines Gabriel Duquette's drumming and Wes Miles' vocals to upbeat excellence. Not to be outdone, cellist Alexandra Lawn writes and sings "You And I Know," a song of heartbreak that sounds like it could be a cut on the next indie-filled soundtrack from the Twilight Saga. If you're already a fan of Ra Ra Riot, The Orchard may seem like more of the same. But for newcomers, it's a perfect place to start. Download a free copy of "Boy" from The Orchard at RaRaRiot.com. Listen to the entire album for a limited time on NPR's First Listen. Order the album from Barsuk Records, Amazon or on iTunes. The tour stops in Dallas Oct. 28 at the Granada Theater. For our main new releases coverage, read music critic Mario Tarradell's weekly column. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
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August 19, 2010
As summer winds to a close, it's time to look back at the season's soundtrack. Here are my picks (in no particular order) for the catchiest songs of the summer: "California Girls" by Katy Perry: The very definition of summer song. It makes me want to have a pool party or do a little dance. Or both. What do you think? What were your favorite songs of this summer -- or any other summer? Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Summer 2010 round-up: music"
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Alejandro
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Baby
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Bulletproof
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California Gurls
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Justin Bieber
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Katy Perry
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Ke$ha
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La Roux
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Lady GaGa
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summer music
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Take It Off
August 13, 2010
First off, if you weren't planning on seeing Scott Pilgrim vs. the World...plan on it. Not only is it an all-around great movie, but it has one of the most killer soundtracks I've heard in a while (it's probably because Beck, whom I love, was a big contributor.) The soundtrack features almost all high-energy rock songs, though there are a few more lyrical and melodic tracks such as "Ramona". Some of the best tracks are the title "We are Sex Bob-omb", "Garbage Truck", "Threshold (8 Bit)" and, my personal favorite, "Black Sheep". Here's a taste that will ka-pow your socks off: "Black Sheep" by Metric Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "What we're listening to: "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World" soundtrack"
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Scott Pilgrim
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soundtrack
July 15, 2010
Here's what we're listening to in our spare time. Because we can be fans, too. (Can't even say that enough!) Let us know what you're listening to. We'll give it a play and maybe start a discussion. Right here.
Dallasnews.com editor-producer Samantha Urban is listening to the hotness: the latest Twilight soundtrack. The Twilight Saga: Eclipse -- The Motion Picture Soundtrack contains more of the indie rock for which it's come to be known. Highlights are all over the disc, so help yourself. And music critic Mario Tarradell celebrates a return with Traffic from ABC. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "The changer: What we're listening to this week"
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ABC
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changer
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Eclipse
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Michael Buble
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Naturally 7
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Traffic
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Twilight
July 8, 2010
Red's version of "Ordinary World" comes from 2009's Innocence & Instinct, the Nashville foursome's auspicious sophomore effort, which showcases a more streamlined, textured sound without losing any of the intensity. Check it out. Photo: Red, from left to right, is Randy Armstrong, Michael Barnes, Joe Rickard and Anthony Armstrong. (Provident Label Group). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Christian heavy rockers Red unveil video for Ordinary World"
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Christian heavy rockers
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Duran Duran
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Innocence & Instinct
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Ordinary World
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Red
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video
July 2, 2010
Here we are again, giving you a taste of what we're listening to in our spare time. After all, we are first and foremost fans of music just like you. What's been in our changers lately? For me it's Diana Ross' long underrated 1977 album Baby It's Me and for dallasnews.com music editor-producer Samantha Urban it's Phoenix's lauded, steady-selling disc Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "The changer: What we're listening to this week"
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Changer
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Diana Ross
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Mario Tarradell
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Phoenix
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Samantha Urban
June 23, 2010
"Bloodletting (The Vampire Song)," 1990, Concrete Blonde "Love Song for a Vampire" (from Bram Stoker's Dracula, directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring Gary Oldman), 1992, Annie Lennox "Moon Over Bourbon Street," (inspired by Anne Rice's The Vampire Chronicles books), 1985, Sting "Dracula's Wedding," (this is the PG-13 version), 2003, OutKast featuring Kelis "Night of the Vampire," 1980, Roky Erickson "My Time (Has Come)," 2006, The Twilight Singers Buffy the Vampire Slayer soundtrack, Once More, With Feeling, from the legendary (wonderfully bad, horribly wonderful) 2002 all-musical episode of the show "Bad Things" (theme from True Blood), 2005 (the song came out before the show), Jace Everett "Bones," Little Big Town, 2008 "The Batman Theme," 1989, from the Batman score by Danny Elfman Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Music that makes us bitten ... er, smitten"
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Buffy the Vampire Slayer
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Twilight: Eclipse
June 4, 2010
Every week, barring last week because your dear music editor was on vacation, we'll give you a taste of what we're listening to in our spare time. Because, like you, we are first and foremost fans of music. So, "come along and ride on a fantastic voyage." This week, Music Critic Mario Tarradell is listening to Mishka and dallasnews.com music editor-producer Samantha Urban is listening to OK Go. I'm listening to Al Green. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "The changer: What we're listening to this week"
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Al Green
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Mishka
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OK Go
May 20, 2010
Mario Tarradell
Dawn M. Burkes
Samantha Urban Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "The changer: What we're listening to this week"
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disc discussion
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Foxy Shazam
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Jill Scott
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Moenia
May 13, 2010
The Grascals keep proving they're the real deal. The Nashville-based band blends three-part harmonies and stellar instrumentation - banjo, mandola, guitars, upright bass and fiddle - with originals and covers that experiment with contemporary elements while keeping to the rich traditions. Take, for instance, the group's fourth album, The Famous Lefty Flynn's. It's yet another accomplished piece of work, from the sprightly cover of the Monkees' "Last Train to Clarksville" to the chugging instrumental "Blue Rock Slide" and the inspirational CD closer, "Give Me Jesus." Great stuff, folks. The Grascals have a new member, by the way. Banjo player Kristin Scott Benson is part of the fold now. She'll join the other five members Friday night at Fort Worth's McDavid Studio, 301 E. Fifth St., for a concert beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are only $20. For more information, visit the McDavid Studio website. Photo: Bluegrassers the Grascals, from left to right: Danny Roberts, Terry Eldredge, Jeremy Abshire, Kristin Scott Benson, Terry Smith and Jamie Johnson (Keoni K).
The entry "The Grascals bring brisk bluegrass to Fort Worth's McDavid Studio"
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bluegrass
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Fort Worth
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McDavid Studio
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The Famous Lefty Flynn's
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The Grascals
Mario Tarradell
Dawn M. Burkes
Samantha Urban Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "The changer: What we're listening to this week"
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disc discussion
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goldfrapp
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kate nash
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kurupt
March 29, 2010
Photo: The CD cover of Love to Live (Vanguard Records). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "The Living Sisters whip up a warm batch of vintage, indie pop"
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Becky Stark
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Eleni Mandell
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Inara George
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Love to Live
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The Living Sisters
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Vanguard
January 20, 2010
I must say, I am anxious to hear the new Devo, which will be the band's first studio album since 1990. Feel free to tell us what your most sought-after new disc of 2010 is. We can all compare notes. Photo: Arcade Fire in a 2004 photo (Hilary Leftick). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Most anticipated CDs of 2010, according to Metacritic"
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Arcade Fire
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David Byrne
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Devo
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Gorillaz
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Hot Chip
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LCD Soundsystem
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MGMT
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Peter Gabriel
January 11, 2010
Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Sade calls herself the soldier of love"
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Amazon.com
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Epic Records
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Sade
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seductive
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Soldier of Love
December 15, 2009
If you've got people like me on your shopping list -- and you do, you just may not know it; start humming "Don't Stop Believing' " or "Somebody to Love" and see what happens -- make them deliriously happy by giving them the Glee soundtracks, two volumes (the first came out in November, the second last week) of 34 songs. There's everything from Charlie Chaplin to rap to Broadway (LOTS of Broadway) to glam rock here. There's a version of "Sweet Caroline" that'll have you wondering if you underestimated Neil Diamond, and a "My Life Would Suck Without You" that Kelly Clarkson would be proud to sing along to. It's Gleeky perfection in two little disks. Oh, the joys of singing in unison, dancing under the lights, feeling that amazing moment when you know the audience is with you, making those cheerleaders jealous of you just for once ... oops ... could someone get me a tissue, please? Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Gleeks, unite in perfectly harmonious song!"
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Glee
November 27, 2009
"Along the Red Ledge sort of fell between the cracks because of what was going on in the late '70s. We put a lot of effort into it. It was a very musical album, adventurous. It was a unique way of crossing the great divide of music in 1978 -- rock, disco, punk, God knows what. It was a great musical record and when it came out people just kind of went...OK." Check out my story on Hall, which should run in GuideDaily Tuesday. Photo: The Along the Red Ledge album cover (RCA Records).
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The entry "Daryl Hall has his H2O regrets"
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Along the Red Ledge
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Daryl Hall
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disco
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John Oates
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punk
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rock
November 24, 2009
The waiting will be the easy part, as fans of the band have gotten used to it. Lovers Rock was a triumphant comeback and the remixes of "By Your Side" were all great additions to the singer's catalog. Here's what AP reported: LOS ANGELES -- Sade is making music again.
The entry "Sade returns with new album "
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disc discussion
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Epic Records
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news
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Sade
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Soldier of Love
October 22, 2009
OK, what's your favorite Madonna song and why? Photo: The Celebration CD cover (Warner Bros. Records)
The entry "Is early Madonna the best Madonna? "
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Borderline
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Burning Up
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Celebration
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Everybody
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Holiday
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Lucky Star
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Madonna
October 12, 2009
"And it feels as though I've known you since a thousand years. And you tell me that you've seen my face before." I can hear it becoming an anthem. Can you? (Photo of Michael Jackson in rehearsal for the "This Is It" tour taken by Kevin Mazur for AEG.) Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Michael Jackson's new single"
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Michael Jackson
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This Is It
August 17, 2009
If it's Tuesday, it must be time for me to pick some CDs. Here goes:
For other choices, try Mario Tarradell's weekly music column. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "My CD wish list: Aug. 18"
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disc discussion
August 11, 2009
Well, here we go again. Every week, there's some CDs that I wish I had. Good thing there's a place to buy CDs right around any corner:
The entry "My CD wish list for Aug. 11"
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CD wish list
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disc discussion
July 28, 2009
As the music-buying public knows, every Tuesday is the time for new CDs to be released. You've heard the songs online (probably) by now, but Tuesday is when you can feel the physical CD in your hands, try to make out the small type in the liner notes and make jokes about the thank-you note. Here's a list of ones that I'd love to buy:
Ashley Tisdale, Guilty Pleasure -- The title is my explanation. Fabolous, Loso's Way -- Why not? He's got a good sense of humor. You don't find that often bleeding through a rapper's lyrics. Kristinia DeBarge, Exposed -- If she can capture an ounce of the charm her aunt and uncles displayed in DeBarge, then I want to be a witness. Michael Jackson, The Collection -- Now that Thriller is about to surpass The Eagles on album sales to take its place again as the best-selling album of all time, go ahead and complete your collection with Collection's five-disc set. I've got HIStory, but this one is more comprehensive.
The entry "Hey, it's time for some new CDs!"
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CD releases
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disc discussion
Photo: Gretchen Peters
The entry "Cool songs from Gretchen Peters, John Fullbright "
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Gretchen Peters
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John Fullbright
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Uncle Calvin's Coffeehouse
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Woody Guthrie
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The entry "25th anniversary 'Thriller' features first Moonwalk"
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Michael Jackson
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Motown
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Thriller
July 27, 2009
Perhaps I'm feeling overly sentimental, but his music still evokes the image of candles in a dark room, you know ... One quibble: The music - at once funky and soothing - sometimes overshadows the lyrics. Not that that's too much of a problem. With Maxwell, it's all about how the music makes you feel, not what you get out of the sometimes vague and poetic lyrics prone to metaphor. Though sometimes what you get is, well, for lack of a better word, freedom. But, really ... who cares about any of that now that Maxwell is back for what we know are at least two more albums? Obvious influences: Randy Crawford
The entry "Maxwell's new CD brings back memories"
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BLACKsummer's night
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CD review
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Maxwell
June 11, 2009
I am a child of the 90s, and I must say the name Aqua brings back embarrassing, yet fond memories of being a Barbie Girl. However, I never thought Aqua was ever going to resurface in my life other than out of nostalgia, but boy was I really wrong. Aqua is back: Back to the 80s actually, which is the title of their new single. The song is full of cheesy lyrics and rhymes like, "When Eminem was just a snack, and Michael Jackson's skin was black..." The lyrics are just the start though. The video, released today, is full of neon lights, smoke machines, and lots and lots of glitter. Click play now.
The entry "Aqua is 'Back to the 80s'"
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Aqua
June 10, 2009
It's a little sad to hear that they want to take their brilliance elsewhere. I got a copy of their CD Hello World when it came out in early March, and I recommend picking it up if you haven't yet. It's like listening to your favorite party mix, but this one you can actually rap along to and you'll want to with its fun and real lyrics. The album, produced with the help of England's Xrabit, reminds me of Mike Monday's Songs Without Words (especially DMG$'s track "Are We Friends") and a little bit of Black Eyed Peas. If you're 21 or older, catch DMG$ live at 8 tonight at The Lounge in Deep Ellum (2810 Elm St.). Dallas booking operation Parade of Flesh presents the guys plus a couple of other acts performing. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Xrabit + DMG$ = party time"
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damaged goods
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DMG$
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parade of flesh
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xrabit
June 4, 2009
NEW YORK (AP) -- The date for Whitney Houston's comeback has been set. So far, there's no word on a title for the album. The 45-year-old superstar is one of the best-selling artists of all-time, but in recent years, she's been defined more by drug problems, marital woes and erratic behavior than by her Grammy-winning voice. But lately, Houston has appeared to return to her pop princess form. She wowed the crowd when she performed at her mentor Clive Davis' pre-Grammy party in February. (Photo of Whit presenting at this year's Grammys by Mark J. Terrill/The Associated Press) Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Whitney's album gets Sept. 1 release date"
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Arista
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CD releases
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news
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Whitney Houston
May 29, 2009
So much of her first solo venture, No Trouble, reminds me of Jewel's 1998 Spirit, but it's not fair to peg Ms. Middleton to just that. Becky is a true talent who can take on almost any genre, be it folk ("You Never Speak"), country ("There's No You (Austin)" and "You're a Stone"), rock, soul or blues ("Lost My Heart"). And she proves all that on this album. She's a singer-songwriter who understands the power of soft, clean, innocent and emotional melodies and lyrics. And her range is worthy of applause. Seriously, you should hear me try to sing along in the car - there's no reaching those high notes for me, but oh how I try because that's just how much her music overpowers me. I'd have to say my favorite track on the 11-song disc is the catchy "Abilene, Tx," especially when the full band kicks in. I could easily see that song extended past its 3 minutes, 20 seconds and not mind one bit. I just wander around, with my feet on the ground ...
The entry "Remember this name: Becky Middleton"
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May 27, 2009
Seventy-five percent of Jesus Is Alive ... And Living In London was complete when Albrecht was killed. But according to CBS 11's story, the musician's father, Ken Albrecht, couldn't let it remain unfinished. With the help of New Bohemians' Edie Brickell and "some of the best producers and musicians in Los Angeles," the CD's background music was completed and released today. All proceeds from sales will go to the Carter Albrecht Music Foundation. Tonight at 6pm there will be a CD listening party at Bryan Street Tavern (4315 Bryan St., Dallas), and check out the official CD release concert at the Granada Theater at 8 pm tomorrow, May 27.
The entry "Carter Albrecht's posthumous CD release"
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Carter Albrecht
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Jesus Is Alive ... And Living In London
April 27, 2009
See which covers our Twitter followers like the most below (Images included!). Then tell us about which album cover is your favorite.
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March 24, 2009
"It's that radio-friendly combination of '70s-era pop peppered with a little rock 'n' roll and a smidgen of country," he writes. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "CD Review: 'Shine' by Martina McBride"
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George Strait
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Martina McBride
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Shine
March 21, 2009
Photo: Steele in a concert shot from 2008 (Anthony Scarlati). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "SXSW 2009: Jeffrey Steele at the Ranch"
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Austin
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Jeffrey Steele
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Rascal Flatts
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South by Southwest
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March 17, 2009
Well, do you die-hard Willie fans agree? You might also be interested to know that according to the legend's Web site, his On the Road Again tour is making only one Texas stop -- in Amarillo on April 23. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Willie Nelson's 'Naked Willie': Your thoughts?"
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Naked Willie
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Willie Nelson
March 10, 2009
Check out the full review and tell us what you think below. I'm a Kelly fan. Any others out there? Does this disc live up to what yo expect from her?
The entry "Kelly Clarkson's fourth studio release 'All I Ever Wanted'"
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All I Ever Wanted
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Kelly Clarkson
March 3, 2009
"By now U2 has perfected the merger of arena rock with electronics, moodiness with melody, and ambience with earnestness. No Line on the Horizon, the Irish band's first studio release since 2004's Grammy-winning How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, screams all of U2's modern hallmarks." Mario gave the disc a "B" grade. You agree with that? What do you think of the new album?
The entry "U2's newest CD 'No Line on the Horizon'"
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No Line on the Horizon
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U2
February 2, 2009
Photo: African Reggae CD cover courtesy of cduniverse.com. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Putumayo World Music has your Black History Month soundtrack"
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African Dreamland
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African Reggae
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Black History Month
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Putumayo World Music
January 27, 2009
Pop rock sensation Kelly Clarkson and AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets are teaming up to bring fans her highly anticipated new video. AT&T will present a sneak peek of the video during a commercial break of American Idol on Wednesday, Jan. 28 (7-8 p.m. central) on FOX. Following the preview, AT&T will make the full video available to watch online and via AT&T Mobility phones and AT&T U-verseSM TV. Kelly Clarkson's newest 19 Recordings/RCA single, "My Life Would Suck Without You," debuted earlier this month. The song was the No. 1 most added at Top 40 and Hot AC and currently holds the No. 1 position at iTunes. Wednesday night's commercial break sneak peek on FOX will be the first time fans will have a glimpse of the video. After the preview airs, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets will offer exclusive access to the full-length video for 24 hours: Photo: Kelly at Grand Prairie's Nokia Theatre in late 2007 (Rex C. Curry/Special to DMN). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "AT&T Mobility sneak previews Kelly Clarkson's new video "
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American Idol
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AT&T Mobility
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Burleson
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Kelly Clarkson
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My Life Would Suck Without You
Any Kat McPhee supporters out there? Photo: Kat on the press line at the 2008 Carousel of Hope 30th Anniversary Ball in Beverly Hills (Dan Steinberg).
The entry "American Idol runner-up Katharine McPhee signs with Verve Records"
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American Idol
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Katharine McPhee
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RCA Records
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Verve Records
I just got my copies, so you can bet I'll be listening to them. I've been a fan for a long time. Any APP admirers out there? Photo: Back to 1980 with a...friendly card (Courtesy of www.cduniverse.com).
The entry "Six Alan Parsons Project CDs expanded and reissued "
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Alan Parsons
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Alan Parsons Project
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Eric Woolfson
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Eve
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The Turn of a Friendly Card
January 16, 2009
Photo: Elliott on the mike (Jeff Christensen). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "New Elliott Yamin CD arrives in May"
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American Idol
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Elliott Yamin
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Hickory Records
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Wait for You
January 15, 2009
Who has vinyl out there, both old and new? Tell us! Photo: The vinyl vindication (courtesy of Google). January 12, 2009
Photo: The mighty Black Moses (courtesy of Wikipedia). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "All hail the mighty Black Moses "
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Black Moses
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Isaac Hayes
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Juicy Fruit
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Stax Records
January 10, 2009
Photo: Lindsay Katt, whose debut album is a keeper
The entry "A bold debut by a singer named Lindsay Katt"
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Carly Simon
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Joni Mitchell
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Lindsay Katt
January 8, 2009
And now about Bruce. His 16th studio album, Working On a Dream, arrives in stores Jan. 27. The disc, produced by Brendan O'Brien, was essentially recorded soon after he finished 2007's Magic. So the Boss is in prolific mode. I'm looking forward to the CD. Are you? Photo: Working On a Dream cover courtesy of Wikipedia. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Let's talk about Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen"
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Bruce Springsteen
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Fearless
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Taylor Swift
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Working On a Dream
January 2, 2009
By the way, my fave Prince album remains 1991's Diamonds and Pearls. Not a bad song on there. What's your favorite Prince album? Photo: His name is Prince (Picasa 2.7).
The entry "Prince to release three albums this year"
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albums
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Prince
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prolific
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Willie Nelson
For those who like to gobble up statistics about the numbers game aspect of the music industry, here's an Associated Press story about 2008 tallies. CD sales are down again and digital downloads sales continue to skyrocket. So what else is new? Anyway, happy reading! Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "More numbers on CD and digital downloads sales "
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Associated Press
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CD sales
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digital downloads
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music industry
December 31, 2008
Photo: Coldplay's Viva La Vida CD had to settle for No. 2 (Courtesy of Capitol Records). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Lil Wayne tops 2008 CD sales chart "
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AC/DC
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Black Ice
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Coldplay
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Fearless
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Kid Rock
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Lil Wayne
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Taylor Swift
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Tha Carter III
December 30, 2008
Photo: The Blue boys (Jeremy Cowart). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Austin's Blue October plan to go global with 'Normal'"
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Approaching Normal
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Austin
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Blue October
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global
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Steve Lillywhite
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Universal
December 22, 2008
Photo: That soulful CD cover (Courtesy of Wikipedia). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Smooth and silky Seal sings plenty of soul"
is tagged:
David Foster
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Free
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If You Don't Know Me By Now
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Knock On Wood
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Seal
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Soul
December 19, 2008
Photo: Bono speaking at the Women's Conference Oct. 22, 2008 in Long Beach, California (Chris Pizzello).
Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "New U2 CD arrives March 3 "
is tagged:
Brian Eno
,
Daniel Lanois
,
How to Dismantle An Atomic Bomb
,
No Line On the Horizon
,
Steve Lillywhite
,
U2
December 16, 2008
Photo: The Sugar Mountain Live CD cover courtesy of cduniverse.com. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "The cosmos line up for Neil Young's long-awaited CD"
is tagged:
Billboard
,
Neil Young
,
numerology
,
Sugar Mountain Live at Canterbury House 1968
December 15, 2008
Photo: Whatever her name is... (Courtesy of Columbia Records). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Beyonce's waste of plastic -- in the form of an extra CD"
is tagged:
Beyoncé
,
Houston
,
Sasha Fierce
,
Single Ladies
Any thoughts? Photo: The Chinese Democracy dud (Courtesy of Geffen Records).
The entry "GNR's Chinese Democracy a resounding flop"
is tagged:
Axl Rose
,
Best Buy
,
Chinese Democracy
,
Guns N' Roses
December 2, 2008
Photo: CD cover of Con Fuego En Tu Piel courtesy of cduniverse.com. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Latin group Los Primos de Durango sign autographs at local record store"
is tagged:
Con Fuego En Tu Piel
,
Discoteca Leo
,
duranguense light
,
Los Primos de Durango
November 30, 2008
Photo: Rio cover courtesy of cduniverse.com. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Ride the effervescent waters of Rio by Aterciopelados"
is tagged:
Aterciopelados
,
Colombia
,
Nacional Records
,
Rio
November 24, 2008
Are there any AMA winners that you're happy about? Let us know. Photo: Third Day's Mac Powell performing at Superpages.com Center Oct. 2 (Jason Janik/Special to DMN). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Third Day finally gets some love from American Music Awards "
is tagged:
American Music Awards
,
Christian rockers
,
Revelation
,
Third Day
November 19, 2008
Houston's Beyoncé, calling herself Sasha Fierce, is the latest singer to adopt an alter ego for "creative freedom." She joins previous personality changers Garth Brooks (who was Chris Gaines), David Bowie (Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane, Thin White Duke), Hank Williams (Luke the Drifter), Paul McCartney (the Fireman) and David Johansen (Buster Poindexter). Most of the time it's just a vanity exercise aimed at getting more attention. Check out my column Thursday in www.guidelive.com and in the print GuideDaily section. How do you feel about artistic alter egos? Love em or loathe them? Let us know! Photo: Miss Beyoncé? Or...uh...Miss Fierce? (Jim Cooper)
The entry "Artistic alter egos: Do you love them or loathe them? "
is tagged:
Beyoncé
,
David Bowie
,
David Johansen
,
Garth Brooks
,
Hank Williams
,
Madonna
,
Paul McCartney
November 18, 2008
Photo: Cover of That's Why courtesy of cduniverse.com. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "A few quick thoughts about Craig Morgan's new CD "
is tagged:
BNA Records
,
Craig Morgan
,
Love Remembers
,
That's Why
November 17, 2008
Photo: Somewhere cover courtesy of cduniverse.com.
The entry "The bittersweet beauty of an Eva Cassidy CD"
is tagged:
Coat of Many Colors
,
Eva Cassidy
,
Somewhere
,
Summertime
November 12, 2008
Photo: That Don't Make Me a Bad Guy cover courtesy of cduniverse.com.
The entry "Toby Keith should give us more ballads and blues on latest CD "
is tagged:
Show Dog Nashville
,
That Don't Make Me a Bad Guy
,
Toby Keith
November 11, 2008
Check out my story on Metro Station Wednesday on www.guidelive.com. Photo: The guys from White Tie Affair (Epic Records/Sony).
The entry "White Tie Affair bring electronic pop-rock to House of Blues "
is tagged:
Cash Cash
,
House of Blues
,
Metro Station
,
Tyga
,
Walk This Way
,
White Tie Affair
November 10, 2008
Photo: Metamorphosis cover courtesy of cduniverse.com. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Bask in Maysa's silky, soulful brand of adult R&B "
is tagged:
Incognito
,
Maysa
,
Metamorphosis
,
Najee
,
Shanachie Records
October 30, 2008
It's possibly the best record I've made to date. People keep telling me that I keep getting more open and more powerful as a singer. That's the best news a singer could hear. The rest of my life I want to keep growing, like a good wine. It naturally grows and has a richer and deeper bouquet. It's an album of love songs for grownups. I found the love of my life in the last two years. There are two original songs, great American classics, "At Last" and "Over the Rainbow," "What Is This Thing Called Love," a Cole Porter song, "On My Way to You," an Alan and Marilyn Bergman song. It's my pledge to love and romance and desire. It's a celebration of love. For more on my interview with Ms. Callaway, check www.guidelive.com and GuideDaily Nov. 6 (or maybe a day or two sooner). Photo: Ms. Callaway (Bill Westmoreland). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Ann Hampton Callaway talks about her upcoming CD"
is tagged:
Ann Hampton Callaway
,
At Last
,
Chicago
,
singer
,
songwriter
October 28, 2008
Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "A quick look at CDs in stores today"
is tagged:
Celine Dion
,
John Legend
,
Pink
,
Snow Patrol
,
The Cure
,
Toby Keith
October 23, 2008
Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Rockers revisit 'Nightmare Before Christmas' on new CD!"
is tagged:
Nightmare Before Christmas
,
Nightmare Revisited
Right, right, right. I know. But word is that the CD will be released Nov. 23 at Best Buy. I, personally, will believe it when I physically see and touch a wrapped, square plastic case in a store that says Chinese Democracy and Guns N' Roses on the front of it. Read more here. As Thor reported back in December '07: Axl Rose is supposedly putting the final touches on Guns N' Roses' Chinese Democracy. Then again, we've been hearing that same story since roughly 1998. You can already hear the song "Chinese Democracy" online here. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Guns N' Roses to release 'Chinese Democracy' next month ... supposedly"
is tagged:
Chinese Democracy
,
Guns N' Roses
October 22, 2008
Photo: A Night in Italy cover courtesy of cduniverse.com. Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Series of 10 CDs takes listeners on an international musical trek"
is tagged:
A Night in Italy
,
Argentina
,
Colombia
,
Cuba
,
Dominican Republic
,
France
,
Mexico
,
Puerto Rico
October 21, 2008
Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "A few CD highlights in stores today"
is tagged:
Brett Dennen
,
Calle 13
,
Craig Morgan
,
Labelle
,
Lee Ann Womack
October 20, 2008
You can hear for yourself on Girl Talk's Myspace, and you can read up on him in Thor's interview here. Get details on his show tomorrow night at Palladium Ballroom here. (Photo by Andrew Strasser: Project name = Girl Talk, real name = Gregg Gillis) Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Listen to Girl Talk tracks before his Palladium Ballroom show"
is tagged:
Girl Talk
October 17, 2008
"I am saddened and disappointed that my label chose to put out another hits album instead of new music. I've only had one studio album since my last hits package. It has to be just as confusing to the fans as it is to me. I had no involvement in the creation or presentation of this record. Sure I love the songs and I don't want to take anything away from all the creative people who were a part of making those records. But the whole concept is an embarrassment to me as an artist. In the spirit of an election year, I would simply say to my fans 'I'm Tim McGraw and I don't approve their message.'" Photo: The disavowed Greatest Hits Vol. 3 cover courtesy of cduniverse.com.
The entry "Tim McGraw disowns his third greatest hits CD"
is tagged:
Curb Records
,
Greatest Hits Vol. 3
,
Let It Go
,
Tim McGraw
October 16, 2008
Massachusetts singer Sonya Kitchell made her name as a precocious 17-year-old shrouded in hoopla for her Starbucks-released debut CD. Now, at 19, she's living up to the hype. Her dusky alto keeps getting richer --- on her new CD, This Storm, she could pass for jazz singer thrice her age, a fact not lost on Herbie Hancock, who's recorded and toured with her. And she's matured as a writer with smart tunes about political apathy ("Borderline") and personal uncertainty ("Soldier's Lament"). Produced by Malcolm Burn (Emmylou Harris, Daniel Lanois), This Storm proves Ms. Kitchell can sing anything she wants, from jazz to folk to gospel-soul dirges Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Sonya Kitchell: All grown up at 19"
is tagged:
Herbie Hancock
,
Malcolm Burn
,
Sonya Kitchell
October 14, 2008
Buena Vista Social Club, Buena Vista Social Club at Carnegie Hall (Nonesuch) - Stunning two-disc souvenir of the acclaimed collective of Cuban musicians' performance at Carnegie Hall on July 1, 1998. Photo: Cover of Little Big Town's revamped A Place to Land (courtesy of cduniverse.com). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "A quick look at new CDs in stores today"
is tagged:
Billy Currington
,
Buena Vista Social Club
,
Little Big Town
,
Mary Mary
,
Santana
October 10, 2008
Photo: Eldredge "Sax Man" Jackson (Kelly Kerr). Discuss ( comments) | Recommended
The entry "Eldredge Jackson brings smooth, soulful jazz to Dallas"
is tagged:
Brooklyn Jazz Cafe
,
Eldredge Jackson
,
Lionel Richie
,
Michael Jackson
,
Wayman Tisdale
October 8, 2008
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