Hummingbird604.com » music

Set Fire To The Rain by Adele

Raul — Mon, 21 May 2012 20:30:39 +0000

My dear friend Minna identified the song that is one of my favorite of Adele: Set Fire To The Rain. One of the most gut-wrenching songs I have heard in my entire life. For your listening pleasure.

GLEE’s rendition of Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used To Know”

Raul — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 20:00:27 +0000

While Gotye‘s song is about lovers, Glee’s producers were able to reframe it as a song sung between two brothers. I will fully admit that my relationship with my brothers has been always amazing. We have always been the best of friends. So I really can’t relate myself to the way in which the song is framed here. But I did get tears in my eyes when I listened to it and watched the video.

Some information from the Glee wiki page on this song:

Somebody That I Used To Know is a song originally sung by Australian Gotye and New Zealander Kimbra that is featured in Big Brother, the fifteenth episode of the third season. It is sung by Blaine and his older brother, Cooper. The performance is the final song in the episode where Blaine and Cooper finally make up after the song in the auditorium.

Lyrics:

Now and then I think of when we were together
Like when you said you felt so happy you could die
Told myself that you were right for me
But felt so lonely in your company
But that was love and it’s an ache I still remember

You can get addicted to a certain kind of sadness
Like resignation to the end, always the end
So when we found that we could not make sense
Well you said that we would still be friends
But I’ll admit that I was glad it was over

But you didn’t have to cut me off
Make out like it never happened and that we were nothing
And I don’t even need your love
But you treat me like a stranger and I feel so rough
No you didn’t have to stoop so low
Have your friends collect your records and then change your number
I guess that I don’t need that though
Now you’re just somebody that I used to know

Now you’re just somebody that I used to know
Now you’re just somebody that I used to know

[Kimbra:]
Now and then I think of all the times you screwed me over
Part of me believing it was always something that I’d done
But I don’t wanna live that way
Reading into every word you say
You said that you could let it go
And I wouldn’t catch you hung up on somebody that you used to know

[Gotye:]
But you didn’t have to cut me off
Make out like it never happened and that we were nothing
And I don’t even need your love
But you treat me like a stranger and I feel so rough
And you didn’t have to stoop so low
Have your friends collect your records and then change your number
I guess that I don’t need that though
Now you’re just somebody that I used to know

[x2]
Somebody
(I used to know)
Somebody
(Now you’re just somebody that I used to know)

(I used to know)
(That I used to know)
(I used to know)
Somebody

Invincible by Soul Side In (adaptation of Pat Benatar’s Invincible)

Raul — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 07:52:00 +0000

This qualifies as one of the best finds in music I’ve done in a long while (and they are Canadian to boot). Soul Side In is a Canadian rock band who reinvented/adapted one of my absolute favorite songs, Invincible by Pat Benatar. I can’t stop listening to it. In a way, it sounds a little bit as (yes, heresy) Nickelback (and I know that some people have their issues with Nickelback, but I like their music). And yes, I know that for most people, it’s kind of impossible to see me liking hard rock music. But I do. For your listening pleasure, Soul Side In‘s version of Pat Benatar’s Invincible. If they come to Vancouver, I’m so going to their concert. Seriously.

For more on Soul Side In, they were featured in The Province. From Kevin Churko‘s website I gathered the following: The song was produced by Kevin Churko at The Hideout and the video was a directed by frequent hideout collaborator Brandon Christensen.

The Warrior by Patti Smyth and Scandal

Raul — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 07:23:34 +0000

Normally I would write about music on Mondays (as it’s Music Monday), but I’ve also learned that sometimes you just need to crank out a post to remember things that you love, and the one I am loving right now (and thanks Parveen Kaler for reminding me of this song) is this tune by Patti Smyth and Scandal, The Warrior. For some reason, I always confused Pat Benatar (who sang Invincible, similar kind of tune and beat) with Patti Smyth. And I love both tunes (Invincible by Pat Benatar and The Warrior by Patti Smyth and Scandal). For your listening pleasure. And if you are an 80′s music fan, you probably do remember it.

You run, run, runaway
It’s your heart that you betray
Feeding on your hungry eyes
I bet you’re not so civilized

Well isn’t love primitive?
A wild gift that you wanna give
Break out of captivity
And follow me stereo jungle child
Love is the kill
Your heart’s still wild

Shooting at the walls of heartache
Bang, bang!
I am the warrior
Well I am the warrior
And heart to heart you’ll win
If you survive the warrior, the warrior

You talk, talk, talk to me
Your eyes touch me physically
Stay with me we’ll take the night
As passion takes another bite, oh
Who’s the hunter, who’s the game?
I feel the beat call your name
I hold you close in victory
I don’t wanna tame your animal style
You won’t be caged in the call of the wild

Shooting at the walls of heartache
Bang, bang!
I am the warrior
Well I am the warrior
And heart to heart you’ll win
If you survive the warrior, the warrior
I am the warrior

Shooting at the walls of heartache
Bang, bang!
I am the warrior
And heart to heart you’ll win
If you survive the warrior, the warrior

Doncamatic (Gorillaz feat. Daley) #MusicMonday

Raul — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:31:00 +0000

My current earworm is Doncamatic by Gorillaz featuring British singer Daley. And it is, not surprisingly, definitely a Gorillaz song, but the original is actually kind of more grungy than this version. I know I have some other singer in mind when I listen to this song, but the combination is definitely worth listening to). For your listening pleasure.

Corazón by Titán (Original Version)

Raul — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 19:15:31 +0000

The previous version of the video I found of this song was with the female group “Las Ultrasónicas”, with music by Titán, but I actually prefer this version (solely with Titán). For your listening pleasure.

100.5 The Peak presents Maurice & Elias with Oh Village at The Cellar

Raul — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 21:15:46 +0000

100.5 The Peak is one of my favorite radio stations in Vancouver, and I just found out they are presenting MAURICE & ELIAS w/ Oh Village on FRIDAY, APRIL 20, 2012 at THE CELLAR NIGHTCLUB (1006 GRANVILLE STREET). Doors 8PM. Tickets are $10 Advance, and are on sale now at: Zulu, Scratch, Red Cat & High Life or online.

More information on each artist here

MAURICE

In the fall of 2011, Maurice released his second full length album, Songs In Sea. It showcases the monumental transformation of a sound. The album reflects and surmises the metaphoric irony which stands as a symbol for these recordings. The fluidity of the ocean and how it is always changing – the fluidity of music and how it is always evolving, the different emotions and stirring of life that emanates from the sea. This album was born from very different circumstances then its David Foster-steered predecessor. Although the music still possesses the innate pop sensibilities that are Maurice’s calling card, It is entirely independently made and self produced, having been recorded in a cabin, a bedroom and a basement, a huge step away from high end studios of Hollywood, the result of which was Maurice’s debut release Young People with Faces, produced by Matt Hyde and David Foster, released in the spring of 2010. This summer, Maurice was chosen to compete in Music BC’s Peak Performance as one of the top 20 finalists vying for the $100,500 grand prize.

You can check a video from The Peak about Maurice here

ELIAS

Elias is a Vancouver-based band whose music is an anthemic mix of dark, moody vocal melodies with original guitar riffs, haunting keyboards, and forceful rhythms. From their debut Lasting Distraction, rock radio stations immediately identified with the lead track “All We Want”, driving the single into the Top 20 and thrusting the band into the Canadian limelight. While the song climbed the charts, the band brought their note-perfect live performance to audiences across Canada, sharing the stage with Matt Good, Finger 11, Pilot Speed, Civil Twilight, and more Elias has emerged with their brand new album Fossils, released February 14 this year on Wax Records. On Fossils, the band’s sound covers a lot of ground, moving from dark to light, from moody to anthemic.

Here is a video of Elias busking for a charitable cause, Busking For Change.

OH VILLAGE

In April 2011, Oh Village gained publicity and a professional music experience by finishing second in Youthink Magazine’s Best Teen Band Competition, beating out over fifty entrants from across the province. Oh Village’s rising recognition drew the attention of a local studio, and the band subsequently released Headlights / Red Death in February 2012. They mix piano, drums, bass, guitar and vocal harmonies with non-conventional instruments such as the cello and trumpet, and have been lauded as having a “unique sound, a blend of folk, rock, [and] alternative.

This is a video of Oh Village on studio.

I have 5 (five) pairs of tickets that will go to 5 lucky winners. All you have to tell me here is who you’d take along to this concert. Sounds like it’ll be a fun night on the town!

You can also enter via Twitter:

Told @hummingbird604 who I’d bring along to @cellarclubnight http://is.gd/7bLLFU to enter to win tix to Maurice/Elias/Oh Village concert

Since the concert is Friday April 20th at 2pm, I will draw all winners on April 16th. Good luck everyone! It sounds like it’ll be a really fun night.

“Vancouver” by The Hush Now

Raul — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:00:49 +0000

Boston-based (and one of my absolute favorite) band The Hush Now (you may remember when I interviewed them and asked 7 Questions) wrote a song about Vancouver (aptly named). They also ran a contest for a video for the song. This one is fantastic. For your listening pleasure and for your visual pleasure as well, as the video is fun.

Eat It Don’t Tweet It by American Hipster + Key of Awesome

Raul — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 07:08:51 +0000

I, as most food bloggers in town (and I think, just about everybody on the planet or at least, in Vancouver), love to take photos of my food and post them in my social media platforms. My dearest friend Cassandra Anderton (of Good Life Vancouver fame) just shared this YouTube with me by American Hipster, collaborating with Key of Awesome. AMAZING. And totally accurate.

Lyrics as I found them on Yahoo!

Life is a dish, best served hot,
And a dish is a book with a menacing plot,
And a plot is a song, dipped in sauce,
That was simmered in a pan with a demi-glaze,
I’m just a kid, in a candy shop,
Of culinary dreams that can’t be stopped,
On a search for the perfect ingredients,
To post on my social medias.

You are pathetic, we’re not photogenic
Hurry it up we’re getting cold,
Come down here and taste us, don’t humiliate us,
No one gives a damn bout what you post

Artisan bread, dipped in artisan cheese,
dipped in artisan nuts, dipped in artisan greens,
Artisan heirloom radicchio,
This carpaccio’s f-ing ridiculo,
A little foie gras and tuna tartare
Black truffle butter chickweed, ha ha ha!
I’m just a guy with a camera,
In your feed with foods as my canvassa,
Lobster bisque buttered lightly
See you in the bowl and need you inside me
I love soup – don’t call me a Nazi
I’m more like culinary paparazzi
Or gastronomic Annie Leibowitz
Can’t see the food, could you move your t**s?
It’s unthinkable to dine out and not record it
Want the world to know I can f*cking afford it

Don’t take my picture, don’t put me on twitter
Just get it over with and eat
You could not be dumber, get off of Tumblr
I’m more than just a piece of meat

I want lucious cupcakes but can’t do gluten
Broke out in hives from a mere fig newton
A sick addiction to Ramsey’s kitchen
I can’t stop lickin my television
One day the phone rang, was truly blessed
I won a contest to be on Runway Chef
A show about a model who also makes food
Seemed appropriate, I be in the nude,
She was stuffing and tossing and dripping sauce
I was shooting and looting and gitting lost
In the moment of foregone purity
Got escorted out by security
Walked down the stairs, then out of nowhere
Came a big pretentious grizzly bear
He snapped a pic and then dined on me
Oh what a tale of irony

Don’t take my photo, you brown furry mofo
The pain in my heart is very real
I need a martini, I feel like sashimi
You gave me the raw end of the deal

Get Around To It by Tracey Thorn

Raul — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 17:00:07 +0000

My newest musical obsession is Tracey Thorn (formerly of Everything But The Girl, though she has built a fairly decent career for herself). This song, Get Around To It is totally the type of music I love for listening and for dancing to. Or to listen at an urban, chic lounge while drinking martinis. For your listening pleasure.

No related posts.

Insatiable by Darren Hayes

Raul — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 16:45:06 +0000

While I’m not 100% convinced with the lyrics (which I find a bit too racy, and let’s face it, I’m a little bit of a conservative and a prude), it’s undeniable that Insatiable by Darren Hayes is a nice song. For your listening pleasure.

Plang noptile by Crush ft. Alexandra Ungureanu

Raul — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:45:22 +0000

I actually don’t speak Romanian, but I found this song on the comments of the video of Tracey Thorn’s “Why Does The Wind” (a commenter was arguing that the two songs were too similar and that Tracey had based her song on Crush featuring Alexandra Ungureanu‘s). I sincerely don’t care as I love both songs.

Pacific Theme by Broken Social Scene #MusicMonday

Raul — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:45:57 +0000

While they are on hiatus, Canadian indie band Broken Social Scene continues to be one of my favorite bands in the entire world. And this is one of my favorite songs, “Pacific Theme”. For your listening pleasure.

Presidente, by Kinky

Raul — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 22:29:01 +0000

I know, kind of strange the name of that Mexican band, Kinky, eh? But their music is fun, dance-able and has a lot of energetic overtones.

Kinky is a five-member band from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, formed in 1998 as part of the Avanzada Regia musical movement and consisting of Gilberto Cerezo, Ulises Lozano, Carlos Chairez, Omar Góngora, and Cesar Pliego. The band’s music is heavily influenced by Latin music, rock, dance, and techno. Although a majority of songs are sung in Spanish, some songs contain English lyrics. Since the release of their studio album, Kinky have been signed with Sonic360 Records.

This song is called “Presidente” (President, in Spanish). Hope you enjoy it.

Control (as performed by the Glee cast)

Raul — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:00:24 +0000

This is hopefully just a phase in me, but I’m loving these performances of classic tunes I have always loved, like Janet Jackson’s Control. The Glee cast performs Control, and I melt.

Love Shack (performed by the GLEE cast)

Raul — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:00:52 +0000

My favorite song in the entire world performed by the funniest cast of them all. GLEE doing Love Shack by the B-52′s.

Messages From The Stars by The RAH Band #MusicMonday

Raul — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:46:55 +0000

So, apparently this band (The RAH band) is like more than 30 years old (was first launched in 1977 and formed by Richard Anthony Hewson) so I’m surprised I just found about their music. This is one of my most favorite songs as of right now. Messages From The Stars, for your listening pleasure.

In loving memory of Whitney Houston (1963-2012)

Raul — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 01:51:14 +0000

I don’t even want to believe it, but the Twitter chatter around Whitney Houston’s death is just non-stop. And so is the news stream. From what I understand, Houston’s publicist confirmed to AP that Whitney Houston had died. These are incredibly sad news. I just want to remember her for her gorgeous voice. Some of my favorite songs from her are here:

The Greatest Love of All

Saving All My Love For You

So Emotional

Heartbreak Hotel

Why Does It Hurt So Bad?

Exhale

And my most favorite: Run To You. I still cry with this.

May Whitney Houston have found peace.

Crystalised by The xx

Raul — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 20:46:11 +0000

One of those songs you would NOT believe I’m fond of. But it sounds so indie, so natural, so hip and such a breath of fresh air. So I’m really glad that I used SoundHound (the better version of Shazam) to find the name. It’s Crystalised by The xx, a British band (my years in Manchester really gave me a very strong interest in British music and musicians). I know that Gorillaz did a cover song for the Greys Anatomy soundtrack, but that did not work for me.

Colourful World with the Turning Point Ensemble (guest review by @rsaloust)

Raul — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:10:21 +0000

On Sunday, January 29th, I spent my evening doing exactly what I wanted to do. I sat for two hours listening to music with my Mom. I was fortunate enough to win Hummingbird604’s contest and attended Turning Point Ensemble’s Colourful World. I was drawn to the contest due to my love of Claude Debussy, but found I enjoyed other pieces presented, as well.

The night began with a performance of Morton Feldman’s A Very Short Trumpet Piece. Sitting in the third row, I viewed a stage devoid of performers and heard the trumpet play somewhere in the darkness behind me. In those four minutes, I felt somewhat disconcerted, but enthralled by the haunting melody. The stage was lit and filled with performers for Rain Coming by Toru Takemitsu, but it was Debussy’s Cello Sonata that truly illuminated the room. Accompanied by the piano, the piece is challenging for the performers, but incredibly engaging for the listeners. Cellist Ariel Barnes certainly rose to the challenge and played the piece magnificently. The first half of the evening concluded with Rodney Sharman’s Chamber Symphony. Unfortunately, for me, I found the piece impenetrable. It was like looking at a blue dot on a white canvas that you know should have a hidden meaning, but you conclude it is too well hidden for you to find. By contrast, my mother seemed to discover it and found a great deal to interest her in the symphony.

The second half of the concert began with another Takemitsu composition, Archipelago S. I enjoyed this considerably more than Rain Coming. According to the program, “the title describes an imaginary archipelago made up of five real islands, widely separate in the natural world, each island’s name beginning with an ‘S’.” The ensemble was grouped into sections, including two clarinets played on either side of the theatre, above the main stage. I really felt as if the islands were having a dialogue with one another across the windy ocean and that was incredibly powerful. Finally, the performance ended with Debussy’s Jeux. I enjoyed the playfulness of the piece and the constant changes in tempo. It was a nice, light ending to a truly enjoyable evening.

I’d like to thank Raul for the opportunity to attend the concert and write this review.

Disclosure:Rebecca Saloustros was the winner of my tickets’ giveaway for Turning Point Ensemble’s concert Colourful World. She kindly agreed to write a guest review for my site. You can read her bio below:

Rebecca Saloustros is a writer and has recently co-authored and edited a series of textbooks. She loves classical music and jazz and studied singing, piano, and music theory. You can check out her blog at How Lucky and follow her on Twitter @rsaloust.

Freedom 90 (Back to Reality Mix) by George Michael

Raul — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 09:29:28 +0000

I remember when I was doing my MBA, I listened to this cover of the song Freedom 90 by George Michael alongside two of the hottest people on this planet (long story). We were at Bar None (again, don’t ask – that’s where my MBA friends used to go! In addition to, of course, Bimini’s on 4th Avenue). At any rate, I fell in love with this damn song, and I’m so glad I found it on video format, so that YOU can appreciate it. For your listening pleasure, one of the most popular songs of George Michael, Freedom 90 in Back to Reality Mix (yes, you may recognize Neneh Cherry’s Buffalo Stance in the mix).

Owner of a Lonely Heart (Yes)

Raul — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 16:00:12 +0000

This song defined my childhood. Yes is and has always been to me, one of the best progressive rock groups. For your listening pleasure, Owner of a Lonely Heart. Related posts: Club Lonely (Lonely People) by Craig Jensen feat. Gina Foster Break Your Heart by Natalie Merchant and N’dea Davenport Music review – You’ll be [...] Related posts:

Need You Now by Lady Antebellum

Raul — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:55:42 +0000

I’m not one to be a country music fan, but this song totally gets to me. Need You Now by Lady Antebellum is one of those tunes that completely reminds me of why I moved to Canada: to get a different perspective on the world. I would have never listened to country music had I never met JT or my good friend Nathan Tippe. To both of them, thanks for getting me to appreciate the value of country music. Hope you enjoy “Need You Now” as much as I do. Beautiful song.

AND

I just realized that Adele covered this song with Darius Rucker – amazing, as anything that Adele does.

AND I just realized that this song (and the album in which it was recorded) won the Grammys 2011 for Best Album and Best Song. Amazing. No wonder I like this song so much.

Hard Day by George Michael #MusicMonday

Raul — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 01:15:29 +0000

I don’t there is an artist I love more than George Michael. His music is amazing, he was a visionary and definitely one of my favorite singers of all times. This song makes me want to dance in my seat, and I hope it has the same effect on you. Hard Day by George Michael (this one, live in concert).

Rock Your Body (Paul Oakenfold Remix) by Justin Timberlake

Raul — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 17:00:26 +0000

Best remix, ever. For your Music Monday listening pleasure. Related posts: Music review – In This Life by Kaskade (Justin Micheal Remix) So Down by Yuksek featuring Chromeo (Bruno Neto Remix) Kilometer (Sebastian Telllier) [A-Trak Remix] Related posts:

Last Friday Night by Katy Perry #MusicMonday

Raul — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:00:54 +0000

I wouldn’t call myself a trend-follower. In fact, as far as music goes, I’m probably the one who knows who sings what the last. But I’m always keen to find out who sings the songs that I love, and this one is definitely one of my absolute favorites. Last Friday Night, by Katy Perry (who I’m sure has more good songs), is one of those fantastic tunes that wants you to put it on repeat. I listened to it by accident on Groovershark. And now here’s the funniest video ever, for your listening and viewing pleasure.

Warner Bros. presents Bugs Bunny At The Symphony (with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra)

Raul — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 18:13:13 +0000

Similar to the dozens of young kids who were accompanied by their parents to the wonderful Warner Brothers presents Bugs Bunny At The Symphony, with the always mesmerizing Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, my parents took great care to infuse an appreciation for the art (especially classical music) from a very young age. JT invited me last night to this great concert and I couldn’t help but write about it, even if that violates my own self-imposed hiatus.

I actually did shed tears a few times throughout the performance, and even tweeted “I want to thank my parents for giving me the opportunities they did to appreciate art in all its forms“. You’ll see, when I was a child, I went to anywhere from 2 to 6 concerts a week (mine and my own brothers’ included, of course). I grew up with Vivaldi, Beethoven, Brahms. I play classical piano (not as well as my brothers do since they are concert-level pianists), and I learned my dance moves to the sounds of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, Ravel’s Bolero, Strauss’ Blue Danube and many more. Classical music is in my very veins and in my blood.

Listening to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra is ALWAYS a treat, but being part of a very smart strategic move to popularize classical music and imbue in our children and youth an appreciation for the timeless works of Liszt, Rossini, Beethoven, etc. was just priceless. Bugs Bunny playing Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 made my mind wander all the way to Mexico, and think about my parents and about my brothers who live in the US and Mexico. We all learned the Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 and it reminds me so much of piano lessons at home (in my case, I still play a simplified version).

I had a wonderful chat with a couple of young men who were sitting behind JT and myself (they must have been what, 20-24?) and they were there with their Mom. They mentioned “I grew up with this stuff”. I also coincidentally (and fortunately) sat right besides Kevin Shoesmith, who brought along his two children to enjoy this magical performance. And the ticket prices are extremely affordable.

A spectacular new fusion of classic Warner Bros. Looney Tunes projected on the big screen, with their exhilarating original scores played live! Celebrating 20 years of Bugs Bunny on the concert stage, this brand new production features special guests Tom and Jerry in The Hollywood Bowl and The Flintstones and Scooby-Doo! Don’t miss these, plus old favourites like What’s Opera, Doc? And The Rabbit of Seville in this world premiere season and anniversary concert!

Maestro George Daugherty is not only an extremely talented conductor but an amazingly funny guy. He walked us through many of the tunes in a language that was accessible to even those who hadn’t grown up with Musical Appreciation lessons. His creation in 1989 (he said 1989, though the write-up says 1990) of the Bugs Bunny at the Symphony has been acclaimed worldwide and he was just recently in Mexico with the production (I haven’t asked my parents if they had a chance to go see it yet).

Thanks also to Best Buy for being a corporate sponsor. I recently had the pleasure of attending Ballet BC’s at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre and I realized that Fasken Martineau had sponsored that concert. Really smart move by big corporate sponsors to fund the arts in this city. That’s the only way they are going to thrive and survive.

I strongly urge you to take in one of the two last performances of Bugs Bunny At The Symphony (buy tickets to the 2pm and to the 7:30pm). Bear in mind that the latter show (7:30pm) may be a little bit tiring for the young ones. But it’s totally worth it. This is one concert you don’t want to miss.

A small extract from one of the pieces shown last night (that I found on YouTube). Timeless, classic and beautiful. Thank you to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra for bringing this caliber of talent and music to our Vancouver.

Disclosure: JT paid for both of our tickets on his own dime.

Head Above Water by Elements of Soul featuring Mia Taylor #MusicMonday

Raul — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 23:15:12 +0000

I’ve heard this song in various formats, but the one I absolutely love is this one, Elements of Soul featuring Mia Taylor: Head Above Water. I used to love it when I first heard it, and coincidentally I first listened to it as I was completing my PhD. November has a way of bringing back memories (particularly as it is the month when I was first heartbroken). But I survived, and I’m all the stronger for it.

West End Girls by Pet Shop Boys (1984 original version) #MusicMonday

Raul — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 20:37:17 +0000

Had you ever listened to the Pet Shop Boys‘ original version of West End Girls? It really sounds… so different. For your listening pleasure for Music Monday

The Blower’s Daughter (Damien Rice)

Raul — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 17:00:41 +0000

This song makes me shed tears all the time. It must be just the sheer beauty of the song, or it may be the fact that it reminds me of the movie Closer, a movie about cheating (obviously, a topic that I’m quite sensitive to). Damien Rice’s voice in The Blower’s Daughter is haunting and silky, the chorus is stunningly beautiful and the music is simply delightful. For your listening pleasure.

Pining by The Hush Now #MusicMonday

Raul — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:00:06 +0000

I have followed the Boston-based band “The Hush Now” for a long while now, both on Twitter and on Facebook (and yes, they are on MySpace too). Their music is somewhat between folk, ballad and alternative, and I first came upon them once someone posted one of their songs (Pining) on Blip.fm. This song reminds me SO MUCH of my ex-fiancé. Not because I am pining for our lost relationship, but just because the beautiful music makes me cry without much effort.

I have previously written about The Hush Now (including an exclusive interview) and will always have a special place in my heart for this band. I am keeping my fingers crossed that they will come to Vancouver soon (did you know that one of their songs, Vancouver, is actually inspired by our fair city?)

For your listening pleasure, Pining by The Hush Now.

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD) in Vancouver at the Commodore Ballroom

Raul — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 16:10:58 +0000

Who has two thumbs and got a chance to see Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD) in Vancouver last night at the Commodore Ballroom? THIS GUY! (*points thumbs to himself*)

Raul!? Did you attend the OMD concert? Why yes, yes I did

Last night I was one of the lucky attendees of the Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (also well known for their acronym OMD) at the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver (huge shout out to the girls at the coat check who saved my night, literally – these girls totally rock, you have no idea). I had never seen OMD live in concert but since my last live concert (also at The Commodore, Chromeo), I have become a bit of an addict to live concerts. And last night was again a good reminder that it was a great idea to decide to cover more live concerts. OMD provided a packed Commodore Ballroom with one of their best experiences.

OMD sounded just as amazing as they probably did 30 years ago (I’ve seen some of their videos from that era). Several of my friends were sending me tweets “OMG you’re at OMD” which I found quite cute. I bumped into a couple of friends there (Simone Abt from Elettra Communications and Leigh Christie from eatART), and I knew others were there too as I followed the Twitter stream hashtag. A bit of information on OMD from Wikipedia:

OMD are a synthpop group whose founding members are originally from the Wirral Peninsula, England. OMD were originally assimilated in the greater new wave batch of synthesiser-based acts of the later 1970s–early 1980s. The group was founded in 1978 by Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys who remained, and were perceived as, the core members. Adding sidemen Malcolm Holmes and Martin Cooper by the end of 1980, this quartet (with occasional line-up fluctuations) was the live concert line-up until 1989, when Humphreys, Cooper and Holmes all left OMD to found The Listening Pool. McCluskey then retained the OMD name and continued to record and tour as OMD with new line-ups through 1996. Although McCluskey essentially retired the OMD name in 1996, shortly thereafter Humphreys began playing live shows as OMD with other musicians on an as-needed basis, but without McCluskey. Then in late December 2005, OMD’s official website announced a forthcoming reformation of the “classic” 1980′s line-up Humpheys/McCluskey/Cooper/Holmes), both for live performances and for a new studio album. This reformed quartet began touring in 2007, and further successful sold-out tours took place in 2008 and 2009. OMD’s most recent studio album History of Modern was released on 20 September 2010.

While I’m not 100% sure of the set list because I didn’t know ALL of their songs, I recognized a few, like “If You Leave” which was one of my favorite songs as I was growing up.

Andy McCluskey totally played out for the crowd. From where I was standing (very, very close to front row) he came close to sing to the crowd, and touch/high-five a few people too (a gesture of approachability that put everyone in a fantastic mood). Also, Andy danced his heart away (even though, well, his dancing as he admitted, wasn’t precisely the best!) and he made us jump, dance and sing along.

The show was completely sold out, and the crowd was (completely uncharacteristic from my previous experiences at live concerts in Vancouver) totally rocking out to the music. The age spectrum I found was pretty impressive, from very young kids who could be Andy’s children to people about his age. And everyone loved each song. I was pretty delighted with Dreaming.

Dreaming is one of those songs you can never get enough of. I always found OMD’s music extremely heart-warming and quite “clean” if you get what I mean (e.g. nothing of explicit or vulgar lyrics, etc.) One of those amazing groups you HAVE to see live, I would strongly encourage you to attend their concert (they’re on a North American tour right now) if they are passing by your city.

I attended the Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark on media tickets to review the concert. I’m neither paid for nor compensated in any other way for this review. I retain editorial control on anything that is published on my site.

Hello Again (The Cars)

Raul — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 19:00:38 +0000

I love the music of The Cars. It’s one of those amazing groups that stand the test of time. I love the song “Hello Again” and it’s a song that just makes me excited and want to dance. For your listening pleasure.

Broken Social Scene at the Malkin Bowl (review)

Anabelle — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 14:00:54 +0000

Photo provided by Live Nation West and used with permission

A few weeks ago we ran a giveaway for Broken Social Scene. I (Anabelle) used to listen to Broken Social Scene quite a bit as an undergrad, but I hadn’t heard them for a while, so I was happy to attend their concert at the Malkin Bowl on September 24th.

I got there just in time for the main act. The Malkin Bowl was about half-full at this point, so I found myself a cozy spot on the hill where I could see both stage and crowd.

The crowd was certainly happy when the band showed up on stage; the first five songs were lively and dance-y. I was happy to hear old favourites like “Shoreline” and “Fire-Eye’d Boy” and even a cover of a Modest Mouse song. I don’t know their more recent stuff but the crowd certainly did!

The best thing about the concert was the instrumentation. The music was complex and used a wide variety of instruments that added depth and interest. Lisa Songstein’s voice was a welcome addition to the main singer’s and listening to “Shoreline” brought me back to when I was working as a librarian in Concordia. Good memories there!

However, after the first half of the show, Broken Social Scene went through their more mellow songs and I felt the crowd’s energy drop. While at first there was a lot of hand waving and picture-taking and screaming, the crowd became more quiet and stopped moving. Energy came back up a bit by the end but I personally felt like I’d lost a bit of interest.

The entire set lasted about one hour and fifteen minutes, 15 minutes more than usual. It was their last Canadian concert and they gave it their all (considering they were in Victoria on Friday, too, it’s a lot of moving around!). Our giveaway winner certainly seemed to have a lot a fun, according to her Twitter feed!

Disclaimer: Anabelle attended the concert on a reviewer pass provided to Hummingbird604.com. We were not otherwise paid for the review. Raul maintains editorial control at all times.

Bang Bang by Melanie Fiona

Raul — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 16:00:33 +0000

So I love Melanie Fiona, my latest discovery. Her music has a very similar sound to Jully Black, whom I saw in concert at the Surrey Fusion Festival a few years ago. The one thing I love the most is that Melanie Fiona is also Canadian (and that this tune was played at the premiere of Charlie’s Angels (the new TV show). Clearly I’m not the only one who loves her as somebody else wrote a Wikipedia entry on the song itself.

Que le mot soit Perle by Les Nubians featuring Henri Salvador

Raul — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 17:00:48 +0000

If you’ve read my blog for long enough you’ll probably realize how much I love Paris. Even though my French is not precisely perfect (and in spite of the fact that both of my interns have French background, Jessica being of French heritage and Anabelle being a Montrealer), I still struggle with fluency on the language. Thus, I make a concerted effort to listen to music in the French language. One of the French duets I love the most (and I owe it to The One Whose Name Shall Not Be Written to know about them) is Les Nubians.

Que le mot soit Perle is a song I often have on repeat on my iPod because it’s sophisticated and danceable, and makes my body sway (I’m pretty sure I could mount a contemporary dance choreography with Que le mot soit Perle as musical background). While I own the song with only The Nubiens, when searching for the song on YouTube I came across their piece featuring Henri Salvador, who unfortunately passed away in 2008.

I think Salvador provides an extremely sweet richness to Les Nubians’ wonderful vocal chords. For your listening pleasure.

Alone (Bee Gees)

Raul — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 18:30:10 +0000

This song is one of those oldies I can’t get enough of. Alone by the Bee Gees is part of the repertoire of songs of the Bee Gees that doesn’t bring me down even though the theme is actually quite sad. I think it has to do with the fact that, as per the Wikipedia entry, the Bee Gees actually had a good time creating it.

I was a midnight rider on a cloud of smoke
I could make a woman hang on every single stroke
I was an iron man
I had a master plan
But I was alone

I could hear you breathing
With a sigh of the wind
I remember how your body started trembling
Oh, what’s a night it’s been
And for the state I’m in
I’m still alone

And all the wonders made for the Earth
And all the hearts in all creation
Somehow I always end up alone
Always end up alone

So I play, I’ll wait
‘Cause you know that love takes time
We came so far
Just the beat of a lonely heart
And it’s mine
I don’t want to be alone

Well, since I got no message on your answer phone
And since you’re busy every minute.
I just stay at home
I make believe you care
I feel you everywhere
But I’m still alone

I’m on a wheel of fortune with a twist of fate
‘Cause I know it isn’t heaven, is it love or hate
Am I the subject of the pain
Am I the stranger in the rain
I am alone

And if there glory there to behold
Maybe it’s my imagination
Another story there to be told

Chorus :
So I play, I’ll wait
And I pray it’s not too late
We came so far
Just a beat of a lonely heart
And it’s mine
I don’t want to be alone

And all the wonders made for the Earth
And all the hearts in all creation
Another story there to be told

[Chorus]

Gone, but not out of sight
I’m caught in the rain and there’s no one home
Face the heat of the night
The one that you love’s got a heart that’s made of stone

Shine and search for the light
And sooner or later you’ll be cruising on your ocean

And clean out of sight
I’m caught in the rain and there’s no one home

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Who Wants To Be Alone (Tiësto feat. Nelly Furtado)

Raul — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 21:00:24 +0000

One of my favorite DJ’s is Tiësto, a Dutch DJ and musician who also happens to create some of the best music I have heard, ever. I can’t exactly remember where I heard this song (Who Wants To Be Alone by Tiësto and featuring Nelly Furtado). But that’s the kind of music that I like. And every time I heard dance-able music I am reminded of how much I miss dancing. Not dancing as a recreational activity, but dancing in competition. Crazy, eh? The YouTube below for your listening pleasure.

Blue Jean by David Bowie #MusicMonday

Raul — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 04:43:10 +0000

I had to “SoundHound” this song to find out the name, even though I’ve been addicted to it for a really long time. Yes, David Bowie is substantially older than me and he is definitely not of my generation but I grew up with his music and I absolutely love this song. This is an extended dance remix of the traditional Blue Jean, but I love it just as much as I do the original song. For your listening pleasure.

Raquy & The Cavemen with special guests Luciterra Fusion Belly-Dance Troupe (giveaway)

Anabelle — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 04:45:50 +0000

Back in July, Anabelle attended a fusion music show at the Waldorf and enjoyed it very much. So now it’s Hummingbird604.com’s chance to give you a pair of tickets for another Eastern fusion music show featuring Raquy & The Cavemen and the amazing Luciterra Fusion Belly-Dance troupe. If only for the belly-dancing, this show will be worth it!

Raquy and the Cavemen of Brooklyn, NY, bring traditional Middle Eastern music and modern drumming to a heady peak. Raquy has travelled to many distant countries including those in the Middle East, Egypt, Turkey and India, where she has experienced and absorbed vast amounts of musical culture. She uses all this knowledge to bring an amazing act to the stage. Raquy Danzinger performs with the Dumbek (Arabic hand drum) and the Kamanche (Iranian spike-fiddle).

Photo credit: Chris Yetter. Used with permission.

Raquy’s musical partner is Israeli percussionist and guitarist Liron Peled’s, performing on his unique dumbek-drumset, influenced by his hard rock drumming background, and his recent exploration of Tuvan throat-singing. The name Cavemen is appropriate due to the rawness of the beats, and there is also a timeless element to the music that raises the listener to an uplifted state of trance. Their sound is a deep stare into the eyes and soul of the Middle Eastern culture that lives inside the music. The love that each band member has for their instrument is especially evident when they are all on stage. They move fluidly through their masterful enchanted drumming and mystical kemenche and Tuvan throat-singing. Find one of their shows and be enriched, encouraged and energized.

We have a pair of tickets for their September 8th show at Wise Hall. To enter the giveaway, mention something you enjoy about Middle Eastern culture in the comments. For an extra entry, tweet the following:

Told @hummingbird604 about Mid Eastern culture http://is.gd/NlnKGR to enter to win tickets to Raquy and The Cavemen. You should enter too!

There will be an after-show dance party led by DJ Lizard of Oz, so it should be an awesome night. Remember to use a valid email for the comment so we can reach you, and check your inbox and tweets on September 6th after 2PM to know if you won.

Photo credit: Pixie Vision Productions. Used with permission.

What: Raquy & The Cavemen and Luciterra Fusion Belly-Dance
Where: Wise Hall, 1882 Adanac Street
When: September 8th, 8PM
More info: Facebook event page
Videos: Raquy & The Cavemen, Luciterra Fusion Belly-Dance

Hummingbird604.com » music

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Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD) in Vancouver at the Commodore Ballroom

Hello Again (The Cars)

Broken Social Scene at the Malkin Bowl (review)

Bang Bang by Melanie Fiona

Que le mot soit Perle by Les Nubians featuring Henri Salvador

Alone (Bee Gees)

Who Wants To Be Alone (Tiësto feat. Nelly Furtado)

Blue Jean by David Bowie #MusicMonday

Raquy & The Cavemen with special guests Luciterra Fusion Belly-Dance Troupe (giveaway)

Plang noptile by Crush ft. Alexandra Ungureanu