New Music Bores Me
Maybe it's because I'm in my 30's. Though in 2008 I was encouraged when I came across bands like The Gaslight Anthem, The Subways, The Heavy, and finally coming around to Kings of Leon. But atlas I didn't feel I came across even 1 "new" band in 2009 that could make my top 10. Reinforcing that was that more than half of my favorite albums last year were from artists that started in the 70's or 90's.
So what have I been listening to the past few years the most? What do I get the most enjoyment out of? What do I recommend to artists and friends? Old albums. I'm talking about "classic" albums. In particular the 4 albums below. 3 of which were released before I was even born which points to their ultimate timelessness. I have known most of the songs from these albums for years but it hasn't been till the past few years that I have really dug in to these albums as a whole.

Fleetwood Mac "Rumors" (1977)
9 of the 11 songs became singles or classics for the band's career. The 12th song, the song they cut from the original master, became a hit too. The songwriting, tones, and vocals on this album blow me away.

Billy Joel "The Stranger" (1977)
6 of the 9 songs were either singles or have become classics. 4 charted on the Billboard Hot 100.

Bruce Springsteen "Born to Run" (1975)
8 songs. 4 radio hits. All have become classics. Seeing this album played from beginning to end last year was amazing. Did you know that even though the album is branded with the imaging of a guitar, all of the songs (except for 1 part in the title track) were written on the piano?

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers "Damn the Torpedoes" (1979)
4 of the 9 songs became singles or classics. The album introduced a new level of production especially with drums.
So if you are looking for something new to listen to don't waste time trying to find the new "it" band. Just look to the past and I promise you'll listen to an album that will bring more enjoyment than almost all of the new SXSW, Warped Tour, and Alternative Press bands.
Tuesday Tune: How You Like Me Now by The Heavy
Their last album made my Top 10 of 2008 and surprisingly I didn't even know they released a new album in October of last year until I saw the new Kia commercial on the Super Bowl (if you pay attention you'll see their new album cover).
Anyways, this band is SICK. Their last album is great and so is the new album. Plus no matter how many times I see that new Kia commercial I love watching it. Perfect song placement.




