Seven Songs or What Puts the Spring in Tenacious S's Step

OK, so I wasn't officially tagged, but after going through a rough time with school, I've crawled out of my hole and am enjoying life again. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and I am dancing again. I realized this when I was driving the middle school kids to school the other day. One of my seven came on and I could not sit still. That's a very good thing.

I'm Not Down-The Clash
Just listen to the rhythm in this one. I dare you to sit still! The older I get, the more I appreciate the true genius of The Clash. They were musically versatile, writing songs that covered so many different styles. Lyrically, pretty in your face punk, but also just great commentators on the condition of living. London Calling might be the second album I'd grab if the house was on fire.

Small Talk-The Ponys
I'm a girl who likes a little distortion with her coffee. Swirling guitars and hollow echoey vocals on this one make my head buzz just right. Who needs drugs? Just turn up the stereo.

Somebody to Love-Queen
I have to thank *gasp* Panic! At the Disco for reigniting my love of Queen. They did a respectable version of Killer Queen when I saw them with Sweetness this past winter. Truth be told, of all the groups out there, they probably come closest to matching Queen's drama level. Growing up, Queen was probably in my Top 5 bands. For some reason I have really strong memories of laying out on the raft at the lake in Wisconsin with my crappy old Walkman clone feeling Freddie's pain and joy, my emotions cresting and falling with his vocal delivery, my head filled with the operatic beauty that was Queen.

Black and White Town-The Doves
This is one of my roll the windows down songs. Can you tell I listen a lot in the car? Can't explain why this sounds like a warm sunny day with the breeze blowing through my hair. Music is so visceral for me.



Read My Mind-The Killers
Have you listened to Sam's Town, their latest effort? I may have lost all of my sensibilities, but I really think it is one of the most cohesive pieces of music out there right now. I think they pushed themselves to grow and came up with an album that is going to stand the test of time. Then again, I may have gone mad. Sweetness loves this band and therefore we listen to it a lot in the *shock* car. I have been held captive and forced to listen to Sam's Town start to finish on multiple occasions and I have to say, it has been a pleasant surprise. Read My Mind showcases all that makes The Killers their own brand of music. They have managed to borrow from the past, but twist it enough that it is fresh and unique. Come on, I lived through the '80's. They have synthesizers, kids. Used properly they are fabulous. Used improperly, well, it can be dorks with keytars. The Killers have a very shiny metallic studded looking synthesizer. I'm calling it cool.

That's Just What You Are-Aimee Mann
I am so glad she has managed to make a career for herself after 'Til Tuesday. I think she is one of the most talented songwriters out there. Period. Her vocal range is something to be awed by as well.

(I'm) Stranded-The Saints
I've always got some straight up punk tune tripping around in the back of my brain. The Saints managed to make some great melodic driving music. I classify this as beach music in my world. Granted, it's a beach where people are probably sweltering in leather jackets, but they remind me a bit of the vibe The Ramones had going. The Ramones are beach music, right?



So, now do you understand the picture at the top? I've got the windows rolled down and I am in full Spring Fever. Woof!

I'm tagging our new friend, Julia!