Travis – Electronic synth barrage. It sounds like it is from the early 80s, or it worships those early sounds. It also has a very robotic alter ego vibe to it. When it launches into the sequencer solo it seems newer, because it accelerates past the imagination. That’s new technology though. Overall it is very stiff, in a way. Doris Norton – “Norton Computer for Peace” I feel like I should learn more about Mrs. Norton, but this recording doesn’t really draw me in, though it is of interest. It being period Electronica I am interested in her story, but find the music somewhat trapped in the times.
Matt – Nina Simone – Funny to hear Mrs. Simone with just guitar accompaniment, I’m not sure I have ever heard in this type of setting before. The space for the live recording feels really big and empty, but I think that is from the intent of the audience listening that is audible (clearly a big crowd clapping at the end). Everyone there was striving to hear her phrase an unusual song, she has the greatest phrasing. It takes any song and makes it hers. “Who Knows Where the Time Goes” Beautiful song, I am not familiar with it, time for a look around. The instruments arrive towards the end of the song, they drive it to a peak, followed by the release. It sounds like faded and dimly, drifting memories.
Dan – Caetano Veloso – “Ca Je” – I rediscovered this song recently, listening to the album with my lady. She wanted something dreamy, and I forgot how evocative this song is. Every sound is really sympathetic to the whole production, it gradual builds, has an unusual chord progression and seems to re-begin with each verse that passes by. There is a Major Key turn at the end, but the lyric translation doesn’t reflect a change in its sentiment? Otherwise, a pretty dark and brooding creation. All the electronic, and electric guitar, sounds are complimentary to the vocal, but demand attention and add to the feeling of something unfolding throughout the piece.
Bart – Lee Morgan – “Cornbread” – The groove! Bart is digging in his favorite trumpet bag, of course I am familiar and a fan. The solos and vibes are all good on this Classic recording. Mr. Billy Higgins has been popping up in my Life Algorithm for days, multiple times from Bart, but also as a sideman for a Sandy Bull album I listed in a recent In The Stacks. Mr. Higgins is ubiquitous and has some of the greatest bounce to a beat that any drummer ever had! All the musicians are masters and often leaders of their own bands, and albums, so you receive great, popping Hard Bop.
Nawi – The Bug Club – “War Movies” – Trashy and refreshing. It usually takes doing less to make a song catchy, The Bug Club embraces that idea here. I’m not sure the band has much else beyond that restraint, but they are focused and I think we all started singing along at some point. Otherwise, it has a good Rock sound. Sometimes I want my Rock to be simple, I appreciate grandeur, but focus, editing down to its core qualities and kicking someone in the face with intensity is really appreciated when it occurs.
Found Sounds 