Hope your Halloween was as great as mine was. IT IS NOW THE WITCHING HOUR!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
DARK WAVE Week: The Cure
Happy Halloween! To finish off our darkwave week, I give you a creepy video from my favorite band of all time, The Cure.
Its Halloween, and boy, do they know how to represent!
Have a great night everyone. Do not let the spider man get you!
Its Halloween, and boy, do they know how to represent!
Have a great night everyone. Do not let the spider man get you!
Friday, October 30, 2009
DARK WAVE Week: Cocteau Twins
Let's lighten things up today with something from the ethereal side : The Cocteau Twins.
I have always loved this music. I still listen to Blue Bell Knoll on at least a weekly basis. No words can describe how haunting and beautiful I think this music is. She can sing in pretend gibberish all day if she wants. No problem.
I have always loved this music. I still listen to Blue Bell Knoll on at least a weekly basis. No words can describe how haunting and beautiful I think this music is. She can sing in pretend gibberish all day if she wants. No problem.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
DARK WAVE Week: Siouxie and the Banshees
On the third day of our Halloween week celebration of darkwave music, I give a simple shout out to Siouxie.
Wish I could post my favorite Siouxie song, 'Cities in Dust', but it was already featured here on this blog a few weeks ago. For some variety, here is a live performance of 'Dear Prudence'.
Wish I could post my favorite Siouxie song, 'Cities in Dust', but it was already featured here on this blog a few weeks ago. For some variety, here is a live performance of 'Dear Prudence'.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
DARK WAVE Week: Joy Division
One day two of our Halloween induced celebration of Dark Wave music, we remember a band that probably had more influence on early darkwave and gothic rock artists than any other - Joy Division.
I always thought of Joy Division as a band that kind of straddled that line between punk and the then emerging infant called darkwave. Or, more accurately, Joy Division ERASED that line.
I always thought of Joy Division as a band that kind of straddled that line between punk and the then emerging infant called darkwave. Or, more accurately, Joy Division ERASED that line.
Monday, October 26, 2009
DARK WAVE Week: This Mortal Coil
In honor of the upcoming Halloween weekend, I will spend this week recalling some of the darker side of the 1980's. Every day I will post a favorite Dark Wave/ Ethereal Wave song from the 80s. Stuck somewhere between New Wave and Goth, darkwave artists often crafted music with an intoxicating blend of sounds. I consulted Wikipedia for an explanation of what I had always thought to be indefinable, and there I found a noble attempt to explain dark wave:
Dark wave, also written as darkwave, is a music genre that began in the late 1970s, coinciding with the popularity of New Wave and post-punk. Building on those basic principles,[1] dark wave added dark, introspective lyrics and an undertone of sorrow for some bands. In the 1980s, a subculture developed alongside dark wave music, whose members were called "wavers"[2][3] or "dark wavers".[4][5] The British post-punk groups that inspired Gothic rock provided initial impetus for the movement. As a result, dark wave is linked to the Goth subculture.[6][7]
And Wikipedia also does a good job at attempting to describe Ethereal Wave. Here I will let the voice of Wikipedia speak yet again:
Typical of this kind of music is the use of atmospheric guitar soundscapes, including sound effects like echo and delay. A second typical characteristic is the use of breathy male or high register female vocals – often with hard-to-decipher lyrical content – and a strong influence of ambient music.[5] The website "A Study of Gothic subculture" describes it as being "most characterized by soprano female vocals combined with [...] bass, lead guitar, and drums which creates a surreal, angelic or otherworldly effect e.g. Love Spirals Downwards, Cocteau Twins.[...] Sometimes, a male vocalist will also be in the group along with the female vocalist. Even more rarely will there be only a male vocalist, but it is still considered ethereal if the mood created is otherworldly and surreal. The background music can also be electronic or soundscape oriented. It is currently a small division of music, and people who like this music are often called Goths."[
I get a kick out of that last part. I have always loved this music, and find it funny that I am being described as a 'Goth' as a result of it. I have never thought of myself as anything but someone who enjoys music that moves me, and at the darker moments of my life, this is what does the job.
Join me this week as every day leading to Halloween I feature a song that I used to sit in the dark and cry to when I was done with homework, phone calls, popping zits, and other teen activities.
For today, the exceptionally unique and haunting group This Mortal Coil with my favorite song of theirs, 'The Jeweller'.
Dark wave, also written as darkwave, is a music genre that began in the late 1970s, coinciding with the popularity of New Wave and post-punk. Building on those basic principles,[1] dark wave added dark, introspective lyrics and an undertone of sorrow for some bands. In the 1980s, a subculture developed alongside dark wave music, whose members were called "wavers"[2][3] or "dark wavers".[4][5] The British post-punk groups that inspired Gothic rock provided initial impetus for the movement. As a result, dark wave is linked to the Goth subculture.[6][7]
And Wikipedia also does a good job at attempting to describe Ethereal Wave. Here I will let the voice of Wikipedia speak yet again:
Typical of this kind of music is the use of atmospheric guitar soundscapes, including sound effects like echo and delay. A second typical characteristic is the use of breathy male or high register female vocals – often with hard-to-decipher lyrical content – and a strong influence of ambient music.[5] The website "A Study of Gothic subculture" describes it as being "most characterized by soprano female vocals combined with [...] bass, lead guitar, and drums which creates a surreal, angelic or otherworldly effect e.g. Love Spirals Downwards, Cocteau Twins.[...] Sometimes, a male vocalist will also be in the group along with the female vocalist. Even more rarely will there be only a male vocalist, but it is still considered ethereal if the mood created is otherworldly and surreal. The background music can also be electronic or soundscape oriented. It is currently a small division of music, and people who like this music are often called Goths."[
I get a kick out of that last part. I have always loved this music, and find it funny that I am being described as a 'Goth' as a result of it. I have never thought of myself as anything but someone who enjoys music that moves me, and at the darker moments of my life, this is what does the job.
Join me this week as every day leading to Halloween I feature a song that I used to sit in the dark and cry to when I was done with homework, phone calls, popping zits, and other teen activities.
For today, the exceptionally unique and haunting group This Mortal Coil with my favorite song of theirs, 'The Jeweller'.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
The Young Ones
Does anyone remember the comedy 'The Young Ones'? This was a BBC sitcom that also aired here in the U.S. (I think it was on MTV). I used to like this offbeat show. Although he does not appear in the following clip, my favorite character was always Neil.
I was watching the following clip and was struck by how Rick's voice reminded me so much of someone that I could not place. There was something about the accent, the tone, the speech pattern that seemed so familiar. Finally I figured it out - he sounds so much like Stewie from Family Guy!
I was watching the following clip and was struck by how Rick's voice reminded me so much of someone that I could not place. There was something about the accent, the tone, the speech pattern that seemed so familiar. Finally I figured it out - he sounds so much like Stewie from Family Guy!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Matchmaking, 80s Style
Remember the days before eHarmony and other internet dating sites, when people had to look at hours of video tapes of prospective mates from the comfort of a strip mall dating office?
I did not ever need to use these types of services, but I can remember in the late 80's or early 90's thinking of applying for a job at such a place.
When looking at videos like the one I feature today, it is a mystery why I did not pursue employment at such a company. There would never be a lack of things to laugh about.
My favorite line from this dating video montage is the guy who thinks he will snag a mate by bragging that he 'likes to wear bright socks'. I guess in the 80's that was a selling point? Just imagine it:
"Yes, mom, he's so awesome, he's a brain surgeon, and he loves to drink Pina Coladas and to get lost in the rain. He like to cuddle and enjoys long walks on the beach with his goddess. He is so sensitive, he even cries at commercials! But here's the best of all - HE WEARS BRIGHTLY COLORED SOCKS!"
I did not ever need to use these types of services, but I can remember in the late 80's or early 90's thinking of applying for a job at such a place.
When looking at videos like the one I feature today, it is a mystery why I did not pursue employment at such a company. There would never be a lack of things to laugh about.
My favorite line from this dating video montage is the guy who thinks he will snag a mate by bragging that he 'likes to wear bright socks'. I guess in the 80's that was a selling point? Just imagine it:
"Yes, mom, he's so awesome, he's a brain surgeon, and he loves to drink Pina Coladas and to get lost in the rain. He like to cuddle and enjoys long walks on the beach with his goddess. He is so sensitive, he even cries at commercials! But here's the best of all - HE WEARS BRIGHTLY COLORED SOCKS!"
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The Kate Bush Litmus Test
This song came up in conversation with my family today and I had to look for the video.
How great was Kate Bush?
If you didn't like this song in 1985, I don't think you and I could have been friends.
How great was Kate Bush?
If you didn't like this song in 1985, I don't think you and I could have been friends.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Sunday, October 11, 2009
What Ever Happened To ...
... Eric Stoltz? I watched him last night in the movie 'Mask', with Cher and Sam Elliot, from the 1980s.
I remember thinking after that film came out that he would be the big new star in Hollywood, but that never did come to fruition. He was in a Quentin Tarantino film (was it 'Pulp Fiction'?), 'Some Kind of Wonderful', and did a few other cable and made for television movies, but never did become the 'A List' star I expected he would. He was talented and cute, so it makes me wonder why somebody like Keanu Reeves made it big while we are writing 'What Ever Happened To' blogs about a talent like Eric Stoltz.
I remember thinking after that film came out that he would be the big new star in Hollywood, but that never did come to fruition. He was in a Quentin Tarantino film (was it 'Pulp Fiction'?), 'Some Kind of Wonderful', and did a few other cable and made for television movies, but never did become the 'A List' star I expected he would. He was talented and cute, so it makes me wonder why somebody like Keanu Reeves made it big while we are writing 'What Ever Happened To' blogs about a talent like Eric Stoltz.
Friday, October 9, 2009
The Violent Femmes
I am too tired and headache plagued this morning to come up with a decent post. If you know me at all, you will know that when at a loss for words, I choose to speak with a bit of music. So, here is a little music.
Something from the folk-punk band, the Violent Femmes. This is a live performance of 'Blister in the Sun' from the early 80's.
Something from the folk-punk band, the Violent Femmes. This is a live performance of 'Blister in the Sun' from the early 80's.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
I HEART 80s
My good friend and longtime participant at this blog, 80sQueen, has started a business making knitted hats, caps and berets. Like myself, she is a totally 'trapped in the 80s mom'.
Check out one of her creations inspired by our favorite decade, the 'I heart 80s' cap (pictured above). Just imagine how many people will comment on this hat if you wear it! At the very least, you will get some knowing smiles from thirty and forty something people who either love or hate our favorite years.
80sQueen's hats are so affordable. I tell her all the time that she needs to charge more, because so much work goes into these. She can spend up to eight or ten hours lovingly crafting a single hat! But until she listens to me, her loss is your gain! I bought one of her adorable berets a few weeks ago and am just itching for the weather to turn cold down here so I can wear it.
It is my understanding that she also will do custom orders, so do not be shy if you want your very own 'I heart 80s' hat in your favorite color.
Show our friend 80sQueen some love and do some early holiday shopping in her new shop at www.nogginwarmerz.etsy.com
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Before there were remote controls
Check it out! Apparently there was a big new innovation in TV sets round about 1983. This space age design featured a television without the big control panel on the front. This was one of the fancy innovations that probably came hand in hand with the advent of the remote control. There was no need for this big ole 'control panel' on the front of the set anymore once everyone had remote controls.
Before the dawn of the remote control, how many times did your parents ask you to get up during 'Laverne and Shirley' or whatever you were watching and change the channel or lower the volume? Was there a rule in the 70's and 80's that only kids were allowed to do the exhaustive work of changing the channel? It sure did seem that way to me. Especially when 'Soap' came on. I always had to get up quickly and turn it before the opening credits were over. To this day I do not know why. What all was going on in 'Soap'? Orgies? Beheadings? Should I watch an episode of this show to find out what I've been missing all these years? I figure if its no good, at least this time I won't need to get up to shut the darn box off - now the power is at my fingertips!
By the way, in case anyone is interested in my opinion of yesterday's 'love it or hate it' song, here is my answer: hated it!
Before the dawn of the remote control, how many times did your parents ask you to get up during 'Laverne and Shirley' or whatever you were watching and change the channel or lower the volume? Was there a rule in the 70's and 80's that only kids were allowed to do the exhaustive work of changing the channel? It sure did seem that way to me. Especially when 'Soap' came on. I always had to get up quickly and turn it before the opening credits were over. To this day I do not know why. What all was going on in 'Soap'? Orgies? Beheadings? Should I watch an episode of this show to find out what I've been missing all these years? I figure if its no good, at least this time I won't need to get up to shut the darn box off - now the power is at my fingertips!
By the way, in case anyone is interested in my opinion of yesterday's 'love it or hate it' song, here is my answer: hated it!
Monday, October 5, 2009
"Somebody's Watching Me" by Rockwell - did you love it, or hate it?
Okay, here's one last song for this week's 'love it or hate it' series.
Today's song is "Somebody's Watching Me" by Rockwell (and featuring Michael Jackson).
Did you love it, or hate it? Post a comment and make your case!
By the way, as far as "Puttin' on the Ritz" goes, I have to admit that I liked this REALLY WEIRD song. I was a bit embarrassed about it, but what can I say?
Today's song is "Somebody's Watching Me" by Rockwell (and featuring Michael Jackson).
Did you love it, or hate it? Post a comment and make your case!
By the way, as far as "Puttin' on the Ritz" goes, I have to admit that I liked this REALLY WEIRD song. I was a bit embarrassed about it, but what can I say?
Friday, October 2, 2009
"Puttin On The Ritz" - did you love it, or hate it?
I am glad to see that most responses from yesterday's posting of "Rock Me Amadeus" were of the 'love it' variety, because my answer is: LOVE IT. I still have the extended version on vinyl. It is repetitive and silly. But who says a song can't be repetitive and silly and still be good? That song made us want to move.
Now, take a look at this one, "Puttin on the Ritz", by Taco. Check out the clothes, the creepy facial expressions, the lightsabre walking stick. Do you love it, or hate it? Let me know - speak your mind!
Now, take a look at this one, "Puttin on the Ritz", by Taco. Check out the clothes, the creepy facial expressions, the lightsabre walking stick. Do you love it, or hate it? Let me know - speak your mind!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)