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October 11, 2008
Womanizer (UPDATE)
ZOMFG! No she didn't go and pull out a rad ass video from her bag of cheetos. Britney on a bad day manages to push units but Britney with her shit together SHUTS IT DOWN. I never liked the song much until seeing this video. HOT HOT HOT and yes I'm talking about the male model. He needs to teach me how to spin in and out of clothes that fast. Wait, doesn't that make me a "manizer"? I can't wait til' she performs this.
UPDATE: After some exhaustive detective work (yes I need a life), I've managed to identify Britney's hot protagonist. His name is Brandon Stoughton of LA Models. How did I know he was a model? Puh-leasee. He gave so many "blue steels", dead give-a-way.
Posted by tranism at 5:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Goldfish will DJ my next party
Submersed Songs is a sound installation that uses live goldfish to remix music fed from an MP3 player. A computer tracks the movements and proximity among each goldfish and constantly mashes-up two different songs recorded by different users. The two tracks are subjected thru different modification processes, building a real time continuity between the fish and the levels of distortion- which can vary from an intense reverberation to a simulation of hearing sound underwater.
Posted by tranism at 12:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
September 13, 2008
Hexagons Sound Good
There is something about the hexagon shape thats captivating, maybe the various possibilities of combining the shape is what attracts me. Anyways,
I'm considering these speakers designed by Oskar Daniel for my living room. The speakers are combined with one single hidden cable on the back and can be individually turned or tilted.
Posted by diverseawareness at 10:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
September 6, 2008
B-Rocka's Right Here Music Video
Girl is looking fire! The song rocks. The beat knocks. I can't wait til' November 11th when Human drops.
Posted by tranism at 6:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
August 16, 2008
Brandy's back
She's back ya'll. After a 4 year long hiatus, a car crash, and label change, Brandy has reunited with Darkchild's Rodney Jerkins to bring the heat. The first single off her upcoming Human is vocally tight and that signature Darkchild beat is definitely knockin'. November 11th can't come soon enough!
Posted by tranism at 1:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
August 12, 2008
Lights Out
Santogold is back with ANOTHER video. Damn, ole' girl is pumpin' em out. Fortunately each one gets better and better. This one is for her single Lights Out. I love the retro patterns.
Posted by tranism at 2:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
August 9, 2008
Me I'm the creator
Santogold's latest single and video, Creator. Them dancers are FIRE! And stop with all the MIA comparisons. They're totally different if you listen to both albums.
Posted by tranism at 1:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
July 28, 2008
Vula Oh My Gosh!
I've loved Basement Jaxx since '97 and have always wondered when front woman Vula would strike out on her own. Thankfully her debut solo effort comes out this year but don't worry it's just an artistic hiatus. If you've never seen Basement Jaxx perform, you're missing out. This is one of the few dance groups who sound better live, thanks to Miss Vula's amazing writing and vocal prowess.
Above is her acoustic rendition of a Jaxxy classic, "Oh My Gosh!"
Posted by tranism at 12:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
July 26, 2008
Tina Turner meets Beth Ditto chillin with Darth Vadar
That's the best way I can describe this psychedelic funk hard rock group Invasion. With all the buzz building behind them, I'm glad to see their first EP "Moogazer" is stellar in every way. Now excuse me while I go turn on my Discovery Channel Home Planetarium and dance my head off.
Posted by tranism at 3:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
July 14, 2008
Fedde Le Grande and Sander Kleinenberg
Even tho Plankton has moved back to Sweden, I still find things to remind me of him, namely how I will be 30 feet away from his favorite DJ in the world; Sander Kleinenberg killin' the one's and two's. I always tease Plankton about his "euro trash" music but in all honesty Sander is no where near that. The man is one mean mixing machine and has full control over his amazing light shows. So all I can say is kudos.
Of course my favorite Dutchman is fellow disc jockey Fedde Le Grand who's only been on the international map since 2003. Nonetheless the man has his finger on the pulse discovering new talent and collaborating with the likes of Madonna. He started out dj'ing for gay clubs and somewhere, somehow that sound expanded to push dance music past the cliche sounds of repetitive beats.
What the hell is in the water in the Netherlands? Both men are extremely talented, not to mention extremely HOT. Hit the jump to see my favorite videos, both of with include these brassy Dutchmen. The first is from Fedde Le Grande - he's the only guy in the video. The second has Sander playing every single instrument.
Posted by tranism at 1:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 9, 2008
Grace Jones is back
After a 19 year hiatus, she's back with a new album entitled Hurricane due this October. Here's the first joint. She'll eat you alive!
Posted by tranism at 1:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 7, 2008
Spreading the word, Demo Team
Be a pal and check out this video by my artist buddy Matt Morgan for Demo Team.
Posted by tranism at 2:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 3, 2008
Singing sock puppets
These musical hand puppets by Matthew Irvine Brown look irresistibly fun to play with. Sensors in the puppets mouth measure how wide it's open and that data is converted to a musical scale.
These puppets can be tuned to sing in any scale or mode. At the minute their voices come from a small Max/MSP patch and some very basic electronics, but he can also be rigged up to be a MIDI controller. They can help illustrate relatively complex musical theory - such as the differences between blues, chromatic and pentatonic scales - through play and storytelling
via Make
Posted by tranism at 12:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
June 20, 2008
I hear singing frogs because I'm sick
This isn't new but somehow I only discovered it. This is what happens when you're laid out in bed sick. You get hypnotized by a singing frog. I'm serious ya'll. This isn't the codeine talking. Keromin is a theremin stuffed inside a plush frog. His arms and mouth manipulate the amplitude and pitch ofsound able to hit every note on a scale.
For educational purposes, "kero" means frog in Japanese. "Min" is from theremin. Simple enough. Keromin is currently sold in Japan only. Any of my Japanese readers willing to send me one? I am sick remember? "cough cough."
Posted by tranism at 1:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
June 8, 2008
Into The Nightlife with Cyndi Lauper
If you haven't stepped into a dance club lately then you may not know Cyndi Lauper is back and her latest single Into The Nightlife is tearing up dance floors across the world. Many diehard fans have been waiting for her to return to the rhythms that popularized the sounds and look of the 80's.
Her latest effort, Bring Ya To The Brink is choke full of hot singles so if you've got 9 bucks laying around and need some new music, who better than Cyndi Lauper? Check out notable tracks such as Echo, Lay Me Down, and Rain On Me. This woman should be admired for maintaining her artistry while gracefully maturing in the relentless music industry. Hell, she doesn't look 54 at all.
Not to rehash old battles but Madonna released her album recently too tho both have totally different styles, Ms. Lauper holds her own refusing to go the way of mainstream, not to mention her singing ability which hasn't wavered one bit. She's just pure energy and fun and after all these years, she's still unusual. You go girl!
Posted by tranism at 2:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
June 2, 2008
Cyndi Lauper Forever
From the set of Cyndi Lauper's video for "Into the Nightlife" off her new album Bring Ya To The Brink. Amazing night. Special performance of "True Colors" at the end.
Posted by tranism at 11:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 24, 2008
Music From Here And Back
2008 has been pretty good to me in terms of music. My diverse tastes have definitely been satisfied and it's only May! Here are my top 15 albums of 2008 with mention of a few that almost made it.
- The Presets - Apocalypso (80's vocals with modern electronic production)
- Santogold - Santogold (A little bit M.I.A. with less island, more rock)
- Portishead - Third (Nothing like their previous records but a gem nonetheless)
- M83 - Saturdays=Youth (I think of him as the French version of The Cure)
- Cut Copy - In Ghost Colours (80's new wave galore! Think New Order, OMD, Thompson Twins)
- The Myriad - With Arrows, With Poise (If Deathcab and Postal Service had incestuous babies)
- The Cool Kids - The Bake Sale (Reinventing hip-hop, thinking outside the box)
- The Ting Tings - We Started Nothing (Raw hipster bar sound, iPod commercial)
- Midnight Juggernauts - Dystopia (David Bowie if he went electronic/house)
- Foxboro Hot Tubs - Stop Drop And Roll (Green Day band members playing a garage)
- Carolina Liar - Coming To Terms (Just good rock music mm'kay)
- Dj Ricardo - Anthems 3 (Straight up partyin' house music for the summer)
- Sam Sparro - Sam Sparro (Soulful white boy. Jamie Lidell with an electronic edge)
- Ladytron - Velocifero (Bitches are back. Rock meets electronic music)
- Kaskade - Seduction (The best in San Francisco house music)
Honorable mention:
- Jesse McCartney - Departure (I'm a sucker for pop music. Reminds me of Brandy 10 years ago)
- Duffy - Rockferry (Blues, country, and a sober Amy Winehouse)
- Adele - 19 (Contemporary folk music with a soulful twist)
- Crystal Castles - Crystal Castles (Evokes vintage video game soundtracks)
- The B-52's - Funplex (New Wave dance rock with an emphasis on fun)
Posted by tranism at 12:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
A Better Zune
If this unofficial spot for the Microsoft Zune were official, they'd sell a whole lot more. Believe it!
via Space Invaders
Posted by tranism at 12:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
May 11, 2008
Violence Is Systematic
The next time you mess with someone, remember there's always someone who can mess with you. Brilliant video for Sissy's "So Long".
via my buddy Magmozine.
Posted by tranism at 3:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
May 9, 2008
Seeing Double
Is it just me or does Bill Kaulitz of Tokio Hotel look a lot like Bjork? That is all. Happy Weekend everybody!
Posted by tranism at 5:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (20)
May 8, 2008
Mother Like No Other
I may not own a Zune since I'm a Mac user but I do like the whole Zune arts initiative where artists team up and create videos preloaded on the Zune. The latest one called "Mother Like No Other" by The Bird and The Bee comes well timed for Mother's Day.
Somebody buy me a Zune so I can see what all the fuss is about.
Posted by tranism at 8:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
May 4, 2008
M83 Saturdays = Youth
M83 is back again with a different sound from his previous works. Saturdays = Youth is a little Thompson Twins and The Cure so if you like the sound of that mash up, you'll love M83's latest. If you've got 10 bucks laying around and are in need of some new music, give this Frenchie a try. It really takes me back to the days of "Pictures of You" and "Just Like Heaven".
Posted by tranism at 9:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
French Youth Gang Culture
So out of no where a french blogger sent me this link and I found it pretty interesting. A new music video directed by Romain Gavras for French duo Justice. It's an eye opening and seemingly controversial production that reflects some of the youth gang culture in Paris. Make your own assessment.
Side note; they're pretty stylish for a gang.
Side side note; I can't say I would exactly fear them since being raised in New York and Los Angeles, they're about as threatening as local high school hooligans. The day when they carry firearms and conduct international money laundering business is when I get scared. See - that's the brooklyn in me talking. I lived next door to projects for almost a year without even knowing it! Thank god the locals got used to me and nick named me "chink man".
Posted by tranism at 7:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
April 30, 2008
Brooklyn Baby
Technically she was raised in Queens but I digress. Cyndi Lauper in 1985 was so New York. Great Prince song, amazing vocals, and unabashed performance. Maybe one day I'll move back.
Posted by tranism at 9:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 18, 2008
Previewing Hard Candy
Curious to hear what Madonna's Hard Candy sounds like? Head over to Black Bunneh and preview each track. Hard Candy comes out 4/28 internationally and 4/29 in the U.S.
Posted by tranism at 1:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
April 11, 2008
I'm Hella Old Yo's!
I like the radio alarm setting since it surprises me every morning but this morning I heard Godley & Creme's "Cry" blaring and woke up mouthing the lyrics like no time had passed at all. You see, I was just a wee tike when the song came out. I have vivid images of the video which was supposed to be emotionally groundbreaking for its time. I remember writing the lyrics all over my bedroom walls much to my parent's horror. Writing lyrics on walls? How 80's is that!!! Yes the 80's are my oldies so in retrospect I'm not that old at all but dammit I'm getting there.
Posted by tranism at 1:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
April 10, 2008
Harder, Better, Faster, Oh Yes!
Better than the original.
Posted by tranism at 1:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
April 4, 2008
Bjorkness
Here she is improvising with her gibberish language to a car alarm. And then she plays with her really really long sleeves.
Posted by tranism at 1:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 3, 2008
Madonna Only Has 4 Minutes, Do You?
If you do then spend it watching her latest video, "4 Minutes" featuring Justin Timberlake and Timbaland. If you have a few minutes extra, hit the jump and watch super fab DJ Junkie XL remix that song on the fly on some Dutch program.
Posted by tranism at 8:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
March 31, 2008
Get Your 3D Glass Out, Prepare To Be Wanderlusted
Bjork's latest music video for her 4th single, "Wanderlust" is unlike anything you've probably seen - at least for a music video. Yes it's esoteric, ground-breaking, visually stunning, and a little bizarre but if you are a Bjork fan, its what you've come to expect. What makes Wanderlust so amazing can only be seen if you have a pair of old school 3D glasses. That's all I'm gonna say.
But for the rest of us, the video without enhanced stereoscopic 3D is pretty amazing by itself. Enjoy!
Posted by tranism at 3:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
March 26, 2008
Black & Gold
I'm so proud of Sam Sparro because he's representin' Los Angeles right. The most soulful white boy on this side of the coast, he'd make Annie Lennox proud. His latest single, "Black & Gold" is kicking chart ass over in the U.K. even besting Madonna's latest. I guess she needs an extra minute more to save the world.
In any case, big ups to Sam Sparro; sexy, gay, soulful, talented L.A. native (by way of Aussieland). You go boy! Hit the jump to see both his music videos and make sure you cop that album when it drops this April.
Posted by tranism at 6:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
B-52's Funplex
It's been 16 years since the B-52's last studio album, 1992's "Good Stuff" so fans definitely waited a long ass time for Funplex, their new album. Everything about the B-52's is still there; the esoteric vibe, the campiness, and the lyrics - oh GOD the lyrics. With lines like "put me in a laurex gown." Who the f*ck wears laurex anymore? The B-52's that's who. The first single "Funplex" is about a mall. Yea, they're so American I LOVE it.
The album's great guys I promise. So go cop that, iTunes, Amazon, CD - it don't matter. Just get it. Ricky is somewhere right now smiling.
Posted by tranism at 2:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
March 22, 2008
A Fox And A Bush Announce World Tour
Alison Goldfrapp and Will Gregory sit down for a chat about their upcoming 2008 world tour. I'm totally enamored.
Posted by tranism at 10:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Congratulations Cocky!
Big congrats to my buddy Nicholas aka Cocky, model extraordinaire, is the male lead in Leona Lewis' new video (U.S. version) Bleeding Love. You go boy!!!
Posted by tranism at 1:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
March 6, 2008
Reflections And More Bjork For Ya
So as I think back on the past 10 years of my life I see lots of growth and admittingly lots of regret. Reflection often lets you revisit chapters in your life, like little bookmarks that scream "hey, something important happened here", and it's only in reflection you come to realize it.
Of course it's hard not to be reminded where you faulted and with that, aimless wishes of how things should have been different. I know people say they wouldn't change anything for who they are today is a direct result of that. I don't subscribe to that belief because I believe wanting to change something in your past is a recognition of wanting to be better in the future. It's comforting to know be it love, career, friendship or choices - life is just a pattern, so large it requires a super wide angle lens to see where it begins and where it repeats. Like throwing dice, throw it enough times and sooner or later a pattern emerges. Can you imagine the kind of control we would have if we ever figure out life's pattern?
Bjork's "Desired Constellation" nails my sentiment right on the head. Please hit the jump and watch the video.
Posted by tranism at 10:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
March 3, 2008
Because This Blog Needs Another Bjork Post
I haven't written about Bjork in awhile, mainly because she's been touring this and all last year promoting Volta. Nonetheless that shouldn't stop me from finding something to write about her, so here it is.
Bjork has one of the most amazing voices. She can mangle it to the point of chaos and screaming abandon, but then reel it back in with total operatic control. Hit the jump to see a rare Bjork performance all the way back in 1997 - the year an obsessed fan tried to kill her with a chemical bomb. By the end of the year she retreated for a well deserved rest before releasing her most introverted (and best in my opinion) album, Vespertine in 2001.
It's rare to hear Bjork with guitars. Can you hear the pain in her voice? It strikes my sentiments hard just like that guitar strumming.
Posted by tranism at 12:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 20, 2008
Presentation 101: How Madonna Presents An Album
This is a total flashback. Madonna sent a video to present her Bedtime Stories album to Warner execs. Kinda awesome that she doesn't even have to show up. A video will do just fine. I also like this because this is Madonna version 1.0, the woman that dragged life by a dog collar bending it to her every whim. Don't get me wrong, I like Madonna 2.0 too. It's just nice to be able to reflect.
Posted by tranism at 1:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 15, 2008
Goldfrapp Live Lounge
I'm highly anticipating Goldfrapp's latest album "Seventh Tree" which comes out end of month. They're already embarking on a European tour and I got to hear a little sample this morning on Jo Whiley's Live Lounge at BBC radio 1. Alison's voice in "A&E" is enchanting and you can hear it even more with the new electronicless acoustic sound they're going for. As a bonus, they also sang "It's Not Over Yet" a cover by the Klaxons which itself is a cover by Grace in the 90's.
Posted by tranism at 1:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
February 5, 2008
Solar Lyrics
Processing experiment combining music with lyrics.
Posted by tranism at 11:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
January 28, 2008
Guitar Hero Super Hacks
The phenomenon known as Guitar Hero allows everyday folk to feel like rock stars in their own living rooms. A homebrew band known as the Guitar Zeros have taken that concept one step further, by rocking out on stage playing original music, all with instruments from the Guitar Hero video game. By writing software that allows them to create thousands of sounds with the Guitar Hero instruments, the Guitar Zeros have proven that they're anything but.
via Current
Posted by tranism at 12:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
January 27, 2008
Spotify is Awesome
Spotify's goal is to create one of the worlds largest collections of music streaming on demand, all free and available anytime from anywhere.
I got my invitation to try the Beta a few days ago (thanks Bjorn) and I totally love it. Not every category or song I've searched for is on there yet but there's already a ton of stuff and it works great.
All their files are carefully ordered and tagged with metadata that makes it easy to look up any particular song. If you're looking for a title from a certain year simply include the year with the artist in your search, you could even ad an array of things making your search real specific.
The application is like I said still Beta and I'm sure there are several features to be added in the near future.
Check out their site for more information, if you ask them real nicely perhaps they shoot you an invite : )
Posted by diverseawareness at 9:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
January 23, 2008
Lesson Learned, Innocence is Temporary
The video to Little Minx's "Come Wander With Me" really hit home. It starts off slow but this music video is more short film than your normal MTV fare. The ending really had me thinking, at what point did I go from being a kid to an adult?
via Fresh Creation
Posted by tranism at 2:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
January 18, 2008
Alanis Goes Underneath
Please let this be a sign that 2008 will see some great music. I'm so happy Alanis is back. "Underneath was produced by Guy Sigsworth, the man responsible for Frou Frou aka Imogen Heap. Lyrics after the jump. Ooh I wonder if she's talking about her ex Ryan Reynolds.
Look at us in this kitchen
Look at us rallying all our defenses
Look at us waging war in our bedroom
Look at us jumping ship in our dialogues
There is no difference
In what we're doing in here
That doesn't show up as big as it does out there
So why spend all our time undressing our bandages
When we've the ultimate key to the cause
right here all underneath.
Look at us form our cliques in our sandbox
Look at us being cruel kids with both our hearts blocked
Look at us turn away from all the rough spots
Look at dictatorship on my own block
There is no difference
In what we're doing in here
That doesn't show up as big as it does out there
So why spend all our time undressing our bandages
When we've the ultimate key to the cause
right here all underneath.
How I've spun my wheels
With carts before my horse
And shine on the outside springs from gloom
Spotlight on these seeds of simpler reasons
And score bourne into corn, stretching my limit
There is no difference
In what we're doing in here
That doesn't show up as big as it does out there
So why spend all our time undressing our bandages
When we've the ultimate key to the cause
right here all underneath.
Posted by tranism at 4:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Paula Abdul's "Dance Like There's No Tomorrow"
Here's the full complete version of Paula Abdul's new song "Dance Like There's No Tomorrow". OMG somebody call Arsenio Hall and put that biotch back on the air. I'm feeling a total 90's nostalgia moment here. I love me some Paula Abdul.
UPDATE: The big label came a-knockin' and forced me to cut the song down to a 30 sec. preview. Sorry.
Posted by tranism at 1:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
January 13, 2008
Goldfrapp A&E, Audio Serenity
Don't sleep on this song or Goldfrapp's upcoming album Seventh Tree. The video is mesmerizing. Yes, sonically different from her previous two albums, but there's a distant connection to her first album Felt Mountain. Electronics still abound but the heavy synth sound with computerized vocals are gone. It's just Alison's pure voice backed by some amazing music. In case you didn't know this woman can SANG. I can't wait til' February 23rd when Seventh Tree goes retail.
Posted by tranism at 12:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Robyn - Be Mine Ocelot Remix
Stupendous remix video of a great song. Ocelot is AWESOME. Watch the entire video. Trust me it's worth it.
Thanks iheartcomix
Posted by tranism at 1:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
January 11, 2008
Music Flashback 2006
According to my playlist stats, "Starlight" by Muse was my most played song of 2006 ringing in at a staggering 438 plays. That means I played the song at least once everyday and then some. Since then, I've been a huge Muse fan.
UPDATE: I've received a lot of emails from people wanting to know what my 2nd and 3rd most played songs where. So here are my top 5 most played songs of 2006.
Muse - Starlight (438 plays)
Sigur Ros - Glosoli (414 plays)
Madonna - Get Together (397 plays) tied
Keane - Is It Any Wonder? (397 plays) tied
Basement Jaxx - Take Me Back to Your House (152 plays)
Goldfrapp - Fly Me Away (151 plays) tied
Kaskade - 4 AM (151 plays) tied
Posted by tranism at 1:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
January 8, 2008
Janet Gets Her Feedback From Mario Galaxy
Hold on to your seat. There's a lot of hair whippin' action in this one.
Posted by tranism at 10:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
OMG Roisin Murphy + Gucci = Bliss
Posted by tranism at 1:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Never Too Late, 2007 Music Must Haves
I want to reiterate some great music that came out during the double-o-seven. If you only buy four albums from last year, these are the four I recommend.
Bjork - Volta
OneRepublic - Dreaming Out Loud
Roisin Murphy - Overpowered
Bat For Lashes - Fur and Gold
I've compiled what I think are the best tracks from each album here for your listening pleasure. Minds open and ears perked ok?
Posted by tranism at 12:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
January 2, 2008
iPhone App iLyric Player Is Karaoke'tastic
My friends and I are Karaoke junkies. At almost every get together the preprogrammed mics filled with thousands of songs come out and with enough booze in our systems; we get to sangin'. This brilliant iPhone application called iLyric Player streams lyrics in sync with the song playing. It even lets you rearrange the timing for group sing-a-longs.
Posted by tranism at 11:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 21, 2007
Improving Ashlee Simpson
To prove Ashlee Simpson's newest musical froc, "Outta My Head" isn't that bad of a song, listen to the much improved remix version by Brad Walsh. See, totally danceable! If you like it, download the MP3.
Now somebody find me blue eye shadow, warm-up socks, a hair crimper, and lots of rubber bracelets. I'm goin out tonight.
Posted by tranism at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 20, 2007
Feeling Bad For Ashlee Simpson
Poor thing timed the release of her new video and single "Outta My Head" at the wrong moment because this week has been all about Jaime Lynn Spears gettin' preggers. Ironic since Jessica Simpson lived in the shadow of Britney Spears for years and now it seems after finally stepping out of the shadow of her big sis Jess, Ashlee is bumboozled by Jaime Lynn.
The new single is different from her previous stuff but Ethan of Homorific hit the nail on the head when he said it's very reminiscent of the 80's group Missing Persons.
Posted by tranism at 12:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 9, 2007
Get With The New Dances
I'm only 27 but I can admit how I danced when I was was 19 is now outdated. So in order to re-educate myself, I went looking for the hottest dance styles this year. You've got American Krumping, French Techtonik, and Dutch Jumpstyle. Hit the jump to watch each dance style in action. I think I'll take up Techtonik.
Krumping is known for its expressive and highly energetic movements.
Techtonik is a mix of disco, pop locking, and vogueing.
Jumpstyle is characterized by its jumping and stomping movements, carefully combined in choreographed sequences.
Posted by tranism at 10:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)
December 7, 2007
Declare Independence
Director Michel Gondry's visual genius, a mid-air suspended bassist, Mark Bell, and Björk's infinite vocals getting the color treatment courtesy of a magic, puppeteering megaphone. Has sort of a 'We Don't Need No Education' feel to it. Aces I tells ya.
Posted by tranism at 12:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 4, 2007
Yes I Know The Music
In the last month I've received 117 emails about this ad for D&G Time watches. All sorts of questions filled my inbox most of which I can't answer like, "who are those hot male models?" But I can answer one question and that's the music. The artist is called Stylophonic and the track, 'R U Experienced'.
Enjoy
Posted by tranism at 5:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
December 3, 2007
Like Two Different People
Nick Patera really amazes me. He's a Broadway hopeful with an amazing voice. The ability to sing both male and female leads in Disney's 'A Whole New World' is no easy task and he pulls it off beautifully. If you weren't impressed by that, check out his falsetto in his rendition of The Little Mermaid's 'Part of Your World'.
Posted by tranism at 10:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
What's In Daft Punk's Pyramid
If you were one of the lucky people to see Daft Punk perform in their seizure inducing light pyramid this year, then I'm sure you wondered what exactly was in the cube - that is once you recovered from the frenzied light show.
It's a gaggle of technomatronamatry with gidgets and gadgets galore. You know, synth, light boards, computers, moogs, and freakin' laser beams. I have no idea what most of the stuff is but if you're interested, head on over to Kitsune Noir for the dirty deets.
And if you haven't already, go buy Daft Punk's Alive album NOW. Sonic perfection.
Posted by tranism at 10:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
November 2, 2007
Korean Girl Straight Up Takes It To Church
Just a happy video to wish ya'll a happy Friday. I especially love the audience reaction and the spontaneous hug by the two guys at the end. Like the audience says, "whoooooaaaaaa!"
Thanks Richie!
Posted by tranism at 10:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
October 23, 2007
Britney's Blackout
True, Britney does have major issues, be it her own fault or the media for the feeding frenzy of attention they give her but there's no denying her new album "Blackout" is catchy. It sounds like a cross between Madonna's last two albums, Confessions On A Dancefloor and American Life infused with hip hop rhythms. Britney even raps. In a word, it's "dancy". That being said, the lyrics are totally benign. They seem to string along only to provide a decent rhythm and rhyme so don't look for any hidden, deep meanings.
One song stands out as the odd duck. A track called "Heaven on Earth" sounds like it was written and produced for a competely different album. The beat and hook are totally 80's, bouncy, a little new wave, with a lot of pop sensibility. Just imagine if Donna Summer's "I Feel Love" was remixed by OMD or the Thompson Twins. Britney's squeeky voice actually fits better here than on any of the other tracks where she overtly sounds sexual.
Speaking of being overly sexual, I think that's the biggest pitfall on Blackout. Britney needs to quit with that sh*t. It doesn't work for her. It's not a sophisticated sexy, it's a trashy sexy - sexy only because she's naked and you've haven't had some in a year.
All in all it's a good album, definitely something that'll make you shake your ass. I give her one and a half thumbs up, or 3.5 out of 5 stars, or a 7 out of 10 on the richter scale.
Listen to her entire album at MTV.
Posted by tranism at 3:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
October 16, 2007
Los Mono, Promesas
This week's iPod repeat player comes from a Chilean group called Los Mono. Their latest music video for Promesas just had me in stitches. Funky beat, cool dancing, and lovely animation.
Posted by tranism at 2:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
October 3, 2007
Bat For Lashes
Bat for Lashes' "What's A Girl To Do?" has been on iPod repeat for the past week. There's an old school sound to it that makes me feel dreamy and surreal for some reason. When I finally saw the video, it all came together. Goes to show you don't need a multimillion dollar budget to create something visually engaging and provoking. Sure there's a little Darko influence but that movie is aces and so is this video, oh and so is Jake G.
Posted by tranism at 11:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
September 19, 2007
Reinventing A Song
My boy Rudi is amazingly talented. Don't believe me? Just watch his version of Madonna's "Get Together" off her last album. I've already told him a bazillion times how good he is, how he breathes new life into it, how what was a dance track is amazingly romantic and beautiful slowed down to an acoustic tempo.
Please hit up his YouTube page and rate him, add him to your favorites and subscribe. I wanna put this boy on the map. If you like the song, download the MP3 here.
Posted by tranism at 1:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
September 13, 2007
Musical Kama Sutra OH MY!
A Tribute to Serge Gainsbourg, the man who brought an erotic note to French pop music.
via Ads of the World
Posted by tranism at 10:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)
August 31, 2007
WTF Sony Rolly
News of Sony's new Walkman called the Rolly leaked to the internet weeks ago. It was then described as a pill shaped MP3 player designed for the active lifestyle. Now we have a leaked video to go by so we can officially add "pet robot" to that description.
Rolly sorta looks like a Miuro - the dancing, following, STALKING robot. I kinda want one but I'm still not entirely sure what it is.
Posted by tranism at 9:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
August 13, 2007
Bjork Innocence Video
Here's the winning video entry to Bjork's next single off the Volta LP called "Innocence". The video was created by Fred and Annabelle of France and beat out over 500 other entries including the Mario Bros inspired one I blogged about last week.
If you're a fan of Bjork's Homogenic era of videos, then you'll love this. The track was produced by Bjork and Timbaland.
Posted by tranism at 12:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
August 10, 2007
Kanye West's Graduation Album Cover
Did Takashi Murakami design his album artwork? Because it's looking mighty Murakami kawaii to me. I'm glad to see the bear is back.
Posted by tranism at 4:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
August 3, 2007
Bjork In A Video Game?
When Bjork puts out a call for her fans to make a music video for her upcoming single titled "Innocence", the people answer. Of the 500 entries, she's narrowed it down to 10. My favorite is this video from an unnamed source. It places Bjork's persona from her latest album into a Mario World-like video game. The thumping beats, bright colors, and awesome art direction make it a video you watch from beginning to end.
See the other entries here.
Posted by tranism at 4:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Sander K - "This is Sander Kleinenberg"
First off, if Sander's previous release "On tour" was a step backwards and perhaps a disappointment, this one will set the record straight. Sander K. is one of the greatest djs out there.
Being a follow up to the “everybody set” Sander puts out an incredibly interesting and unique sound on these discs. I’ve read that Sander doesn’t like the idea of genres and labeling music too much, or as he puts it “Versatility makes a dj strong”. With these discs he won’t have to worry about being classified, it’s simply impossible to define the sound as one genre or style.
The first disc, called the left disc begins with a track from my fellow Scandinavian Disk jokke with “Folk I Farta”. A real smooth start to a very pleasant journey that stays interesting throughout with highlights such as Tom Novy’s tribute “Moscow never sleeps remix” and Gui Boratto’s re-work of Robert Babicz’s “Sin”.
Turning right onto the second disc we find Nic Fanciulli’s cool remix of Eyrer & Hinz Motorcitysoul and the Dubfire intepretation of Smith & Selway’s “Transit time”. I also like “Dancing in dark rooms” by quivver.
Both discs are Incredibly cohesive yet so different. His mixing is exhilarating and effects are used with finesse. If you need a new electronic cd, this is the one for 2007.
Posted by diverseawareness at 11:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
June 14, 2007
The Epic Voice That is Björk
Several of my friends think Björk is just plain weird. A few even dare say she can't sing a note's worth. I beg to differ. Her voice is epic as is her writing talent. It's sometimes hard to remember how amazing her voice is when you take a hiatus from her records. They're not exactly easy to hum so they don't get stuck in your head. However as soon as you listen again, a cold front quickly shoots up your spine down your arms making each hair prickle.
This video was taken from the excellent Screaming Masterpiece documentary.
Posted by tranism at 1:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)
June 6, 2007
The Ghetto Blaster For The iPod Generation
Ghetto blasters never really made a comeback because audio sources have moved to external devices, not to mention how ungodly they looked. So an industrial designer name Dirk Winkel (love his name) envisaged a new ghetto blaster, comfortable to wear and compatible with any iPod-like device called the Nu Blaster.
The head of the blaster provides space for a large bass speaker while the long narrow end serves as a bass reflux tube. The curved shape makes it ergonomic to sport on your shoulder while the strap makes transport easy.
Too bad it's concept only. Hit the jump for another picture.
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 1:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
June 5, 2007
Steed Lord Is 4 Kinds Of Crazy Hotness
Iceland has officially completed my trifecta of musical domination; Björk, Sigur Ros, and now Steed Lord. Their sound can be best described as underground but even that adjective fails to do them justice. They're like some crazy concocted drink made up of 80's hip-hop, house, electronica, rave with just a touch of Vanilla Ice. I may be late in discovering them but I promise to make up for lost time.
For all of you curious what a group that looks like that sounds like, hit up their MySpace music page to pinch a sample.
via lifeiscarbon
Posted by tranism at 10:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
April 28, 2007
Live From Coachella Björk
It's night time and it's 'effin HOT here at Coachella, mostly because of all the people breathing around me. UGH! But my night is made better by Björk who performed some of her oldies and lots of new material off her upcoming album Volta. One of my fav performances was her encore of a song called "Independence".
This is the Björk I fell in love with; the hardcore electronica bass thumping screaming girl. The crowd was nuts and if they weren't nuts to begin with, they were by the time she reached the climax of this song. "Independence" sounds like old school Sugarcubes mixed with the B-52's. This ladies and gentlemen is techno. No wait, scratch that. This is Björk techno!
UPDATE: Many more videos from last night's performance. Hit the jump!
Posted by tranism at 6:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)
April 6, 2007
Björk's Earth Intruders Leaked
Björk's first single, "Earth Intruders" off the upcoming Volta album has been leaked 3 days before its release. Thanks to Shamless Complacency you can download the entire track here and it sounds freakin' AMAZING!
Posted by tranism at 6:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
April 2, 2007
Volta Revealed
I waited until today to post this so you wouldn't think it was a hoax. Here is the packaging for Björk's upcoming album Volta. The second image is the packaging for the first single, Earth Intruders. The single will be available in stores and digitally April 9th!
Posted by tranism at 3:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 1, 2007
Alanis Morissette Humps
Seems my favorite girl from America Jr. released a fun parody of the Black Eyed Peas "My Humps" video. If any of you take this seriously, you need to go slap yourself for not having a sense of humor.
Although it's a total joke, I think I prefer Alanis' version over the Peas. Is it any wonder how some songs are just STUPID when you slow it down enough to really hear the lyrics?
Posted by tranism at 1:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)
March 30, 2007
Björk Tour 2007 Pre-Sale
She's finally doing it. Björk is embarking on an 18 month world tour in conjunction with the release of her upcoming album, Volta.
Pre-sale tickets for some U.S. venues went on sale yesterday and are all closed. Pay attention to THIS PAGE as more pre-sale tickets are announced.
I should totally organized a little party after the concert.
UPDATE: Looks like video leaks of her album are appearing all over the Internet. Could be a marketing ploy to promote Volta and her tour. Either way these video clips give you an idea of what Volta sounds like. Definitely worth watching.
Posted by tranism at 12:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
March 27, 2007
New Music For March '07
So I just went and blew $40 on some new music. No regrets tho. This months music shopping spree comes from artists I've been waiting a long time for.
(from left to right)
Macy Gray - BIG
Call me crazy but I liked Macy's first album. Her sound was refreshing and although her voice can get a tad Minnie Mouse annoying, her latest effort proves she has staying power. The album is funky and she's more expressive with her vocal range. As always, you only need to hear 5 seconds of it to know this is Macy Gray.
Pole - Steingarten
I'm a huge fan of experimental music and this album doesn't disappoint. Steingarten is a cinematic collection of beeps and blurps backed by thumping bass lines. I've been listening to it to get my creative juices flowing. It works.
Tracey Thorn - Out of the Woods
Ex-front woman to one of my favorite bands Everything But The Girl; Miss Thorn's second solo album is a mix of old school new wave and contemporary electronic music. And who can forget that voice! It's so melodic and pure. This is one of those "listen to it twice" albums. First for the amazing beats, then for her honest lyrics.
Kate Havnevik - Melankton
Finally her album is out. I've been waiting half a year for it. I'm still upset over missing lunch with Kate and her manager last year when they invited me after reading an older post. Wouldn't you know it, I was out of town! As for the album; totally worth the wait. She reminds of Björk, Imogen Heap and Portishead. Listen, that's totally a compliment!
Posted by tranism at 3:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
March 25, 2007
Beat Blocks
It's a digital rhythm sequencer manipulated by an analog interface designed by Jeff Hoefs, Stijn Schiffenleers and Greg Zifcak. Beat Blocks allow the user to create and change a 4 track drum loop on the fly by physically rearranging blocks within its 4x4 matrix. Each block is marked with its own patterning scheme. This allows the user to quickly identify the beat and change it, much faster that one could using a mouse and computer. Beat Blocks can also directly integrate and synchronize with other midi hardware and communicate with a computer.
Although the current 4x4 matrix version is just a prototype, The final version will come in two flavors, one for performance, the other for installation. Both will use an 8x8 matrix utilizing an even more compact design.
Posted by tranism at 9:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
March 19, 2007
Gaming Music Is Big Biz.
EA games launched their new sister site EA Trax, home to all their video game soundtracks. Reading about this I found it interesting that music involved in video games have recently surpassed that of the movie industry in exposure.
Now I know the game industry is a big market but will we really discover new talent through video games or is it just another way for EA to make another buck? If you think about it, you've already paid for the music if you own the video game. Anyway, most of the songs are linked to iTunes so maybe this is all some partnership between EA and Apple. Will we see some of this cooperation spill over into other Apple product lines? EA games on Apple iPhone perhaps?
Posted by diverseawareness at 2:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
March 5, 2007
Bjork Speaks About Her Next Album; Volta
It doesn't feel like it, but it's been 2 years since Bjork released her last album, Medulla. I didn't expect her to have a new one ready so soon but it's done and it's coming May 7, 2007!
The album called Volta is described to be Bjork doing what she does best, making beats. The record was produced by Bjork herself and features collaborations with Timbaland, Antony, Lightening Bolt's Brian Chippendale, Missy Elliot, Chris Corsano, African collection Konono Nº1, Chinese pipa player Min Xiao Fen and her very own all female 10 piece Icelandic brass section.
Pitchfork Media has an awesome interview with the Icelandic songstress; everything from her influences to the "marching" sounds in Volta. My favorite part of the interview is when Bjork describes how this album is somewhat a reaction to the world today, particularly all the religious divides;
"I mean, the human race, we are a tribe, lets face it and stop all this religious bullshit. I think everybody, or at least a lot of my friends are just so exhausted with this whole self-importance of religious people. Just drop it. We're all fucking animals, so lets just make some universal tribal beat. We're pagan. Lets just march."
Posted by tranism at 3:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 19, 2007
Robyn Revamped
You probably remember the US hit "Show Me Love", I think it was released in '98. At that time I don't think it would be unfair to say, Robyn was Sweden's answer to Britney Spears but probably less versatile. I haven't followed Robyn's every step since then but her newly released video from her own label "Konichiwa Bitches" is neat.
The video features some strong electro influences mixed with stop motion and cute characters. So cheerful, here take a look at the video.
The album it self was released in Sweden during 2005, but now with a few added tracks and new versions it will be released world wide in April of this year.
Posted by diverseawareness at 11:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
October 5, 2006
Rockabye Baby Björk
No, she's not having a baby. Rockabye Baby is a new album of lullaby renditions of popular Björk songs. The Icelandic pop-star made her first album when she was just a wee 8 y.o. girl, already developing her vocal chops so it's fitting something like this comes out. You won't hear Björks voice tho, it's entirely instrumental. Here's the track listing;
- Human Behavior
- Like Someone in Love
- Come to Me
- The Modern Things
- Possibly Maybe
- Hunter
- Joga
- Unravel
- Bacherlorette
- All Is Full of Love
- Hidden Place
Plenty of love songs in there that fit the mold of a lullaby but I'm curious to hear how emotionally raw songs like Unravel, Bachelorette, and Hidden Place will translate. In any case, I'll soon find out and when I do, I'll update ya'll. (See I really am from Texas).
Posted by tranism at 1:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
September 1, 2006
Bumpin' These For September '06
(from left to right)
Kelis - Kelis Was Here
I've been a fan of hers since day one. Although she's gotten less spacey and more R&B, she still carries a sound only unique to her. This album is her most cohesive to date with a couple stand out tracks I'm sure anyone who listens to R&B and Electronic music will like.
BT - The Binary Universe
Can this man do no wrong? Don't expect the same hyper electronic beats from his previous albums. This is much more cinematic, but done electronically. Just close your eyes, have a listen, and let the music take you where it wants. It's very surreal.
Tiga - Sexor
Okay, not only is Tiga one of my favorite muscians/DJ's, he's also one of the hottest. Yes kids, he may be Canadian but America Junior is infamous for birthing talented f*ckers like him. If you like 80's, if you like New Wave, if you LOVE Depeche Mode, then you'll love Tiga's latest album.
Posted by tranism at 12:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
August 21, 2006
Stream Your Music Anywhere
MyTunes is a great free app. that streams your entire iTunes music library for you to listen to anywhere. I currently have it running on my home computer. I simply type in the configured URL in any browser window and a web based HTML page appears with all my music. I can sort by title, artists, albums and stream everything right thru my iTunes player.
A great way for those of us without iPods and those who've already maxed out your iPod's storage capacity. The only requirements are that you have a computer with a broadband internet connection and iTunes installed.
Works on OS X and Windows. CHEERS!
Posted by tranism at 12:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 18, 2006
Bjork Surrounded
Anyone who knows me KNOWS my love for a woman name Björk. She is grace, force, power, and spirit in everything she makes.
Her latest release is called Surrounded and is the greatest collection she's ever released (until the Blu-Ray version comes out in 8 years). Every album, every video, all remastered in pristine Surround Sound 5.1 and DTS, beautifully packaged in a box made to be displayed.
I spend so much of my money on clothes and gadgets so I often have to skip music but I just can't let this one slip by. I've found it on Overstock for $25 cheaper than retail stores coming in at a cool $106. With tax and Overstock's $1 shipping, it brings the total right under $110. I REALLLLLLLLY WANT IT so if you love me (my birthday was July 5th), be nice and buy it for me. :)
Posted by tranism at 6:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 16, 2006
Electro Bumps These for '06
click on the thumbnails to launch iTunes and previews
(from left to right)
The Fray - How to Save a Life
Scale - Herbert
Madita - Madita
Karsh Kale - Broken English
Ellen Allien & Apparat - Orchestra of Bubbles
Venus Hum - The Colors in The Wheel
Thom Yorke - The Eraser
Outputmessage - Nebulae
Röyksopp - Night Out (live EP)
Pet Shop Boys - Fundamental
Ferry Coresten - L.E.F.
Posted by tranism at 1:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
July 6, 2006
Hernan Cattaneo - Sequential
If you're starved for some house that’s deep, rich and progressive check out this new release from Hernan Cattaneo on Renaissance. A 2-disc compilation packed with a faithful delivery of exciting house in its most modern and dynamic fashion.
Disc one starts out very upbeat with smooth house and solid bass lines and traces of trance. Overall a really well mixed and produced disc that stays fresh and progressive throughout.
I've always been a fan of Hernan's mixing and his sounds, but his earlier releases had segments where it sometimes got stale and boring. The beats were always good but sometimes they got too stretched out and the mixes felt flat.
This time around it’s different, and a definite uplift from earlier releases is maintained by tracks like nr. 9 "1983" from Chris Llopis and nr. 11"With my friends" from Way Out West. Those are both thrown into the middle of the disc and are really putting a spin on things. Hernan is with this release also dipping into the electronic genre, but still staying away from making it to minimalistic and dominating as many other house dj's have done lately.
Disc 2 is deep melodic tech house with influences from all over. In my opinion the best progressive house release so far for 2006.
Trust me, it’s worth every penny from your piggy bank.
Posted by diverseawareness at 10:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Portishead's New Album
The highly anticipated new album by Portishead is finally due to be released. The exact date will be announced on their myspace page shortly.
Portishead's album Dummy is a timeless record that reserved a spot for Portishead in my heart forever. In 1997 they followed up with their next release called Portishead and a special live album came after that, but they've been quiet ever since.
Despite not having released anything as a band for about 9 years now, forefront singer Beth Gibbon's claims they've never been split up or killed the band. Guitarist, Barrow says that the members have just had their heads down for a while but still been writing songs together.
Interestingly enough, I'm eager to hear what 9 years of sorrow will sound like from a band that even in their somewhat cheerful moments can shatter me into a complete state of melancholy.
Posted by diverseawareness at 9:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
June 11, 2006
Daft Punk - Electroma
Daft Punk's Electroma was directed by Daft Punk, Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter. The film is a psychedelic musical and visual odyssey that revolves around two robots and their quest to become human. The robots make their human faces out of wax!
The movie was screened at Cannes a few weeks ago and got decent critique. It's said to be funny and beautifully filmed but without a narrative.
But honestly, who goes to see this kind of movie for anything else but the cool-factor and subject matter? I can't wait to see it myself.
more pictures after the jump
Posted by diverseawareness at 10:39 PM |