Guy's Gallivant Into Music

zeppy111 · 07-13-2009, 02:54 PM

Well my first journal here is not going to be earth-shattering but hopefully will interest some to check out the music here and maybe explore some music unknown or lost to you over the years.

What you can expect so far:
- Short write-ups on a few albums that I have listened to during the week that I think should get a few plays by MB.
- A dip into modern South African music. Reviews, mixtapes, videos...
- Anthing that I can think of that sounds somewhat interesting.
- Songs that are stuck in my head and that I need to transfer to someone else

I will have my first couple albums up soon. If anyone would like PM's, just shout and I will try my best.

Cheers
Guy

zeppy111 · 07-13-2009, 04:32 PM

Album: 1. Efterklang – Under Giant Trees
Year: 2007
Genre: Post Rock

The ever changing Danish band plays a mish-mosh of sounds ranging from electronica to post-rock, in what I would call a predominately post-rock based album. Post-rock has either hits or misses with people, being claimed sometimes to be flat out boring, and this is why the album is such a success as it never fails to capture your attention. A range of instruments such as the violin, trombone and flute can be heard during this exciting, yet soothing piece of music. A must-hear for those who slam the genre and likewise those who enjoy it too.

Highlight: Himmelbjerget

Album: 2. Il Balletto Di Bronzo – Ys
Year: 1972
Genre: Italian Progressive Rock

The Italian progressive rock group with this album arguably produced one of the most epic albums of its time and scene. The album is a collection of the necessities that you would want from an album of its sought, as well as their own very unique sound, which is a big plus as nowadays many people perceive prog to sound ‘all the same,’ which is clearly not the case here. Not that many will understand the lyrics with them being in Italian, they are a lovely addition to the music. The album has a flow of great rhythm, sweet guitar tunes and unique yet loveable vocals. A true classic of progressive music.

Highlight: Secondo Incontro

Album: 3. Elvis Costello – My Aim Is True
Year: 1977
Genre: Rock

I think by now everyone knows who Mr Costello is so he needs no introduction. The debut album from Costello is a great point to start out for the new fan and although it contains some songs that lack great production and recording, (Mystery Dance) that is why you have to love the album, the un-polished, unrefined yet powerful and energetic music which would change in the latter albums. The album does contain the ever-present lyrics, that Costello seemed to write so well throughout his career and this album is no exception.

Highlight: Watching The Detectives

Bulldog · 07-14-2009, 09:15 AM

Interesting take on My Aim Is True there. I've said many times before that it's nowhere near my favourite of his, but it's still a very good album - the songwriting (lyrically and musically) is sharp as nails.

Haven't come across those other two before (although Il Balletto Di Bronzo do ring a bell), but that's what keeps thread like this interesting. Keep this going eh

zeppy111 · 07-15-2009, 07:14 AM

Welcome To South Africa

South Africa is a country bustling with exciting and talented bands and musicians, who just cannot seem to make it onto the world music scene like the Aussie's or even South America. The country is most notably recognised for icons such as Nelson Mandela, The Springbok rugby team and possibly Ladysmith Black Mambazo, but it is time that the modern South African musicians got heard by the world.

Artist #1: PRIME CIRCLE

Prime circle are a rock/alternative band that hail from Witbank, Mpumalanga. (Which is about an hour or so outside Johannesburg for those unfamiliar with the country)

The band formed back in 2001 and were signed to a minor record label and released two full-length studio albums of this label and an EP. By the time that the second album 'Live This Life' had been released they were SA's biggest selling rock band.

In 2008 they moved across to the EMI label and released the album "All Or Nothing" which has undoubtedly been their most successful album and has sky-rocketed them to absolute superstardom within the local music scene.

Although they have released a couple studio albums, they are a great sight to see up on stage and fill stadiums, arenas, festivals, you name it and they will fill it with fans. Their live shows are arguably one of the best in the country and pack a major punch. They have been part of a few major shows such as the CokeFest in 2006 which saw bands such as Metallica, Simple Plan and Collective Soul performing to, as well as being the opening band for "LIVE" when they toured South Africa.

The band personnel is as follows:
Ross Learmonth - vocals, rhythm guitar, primary songwriter
Gerhard Venter - drums, backing vocals, supporting songwriter
Marco Gomes - bass, supporting songwriter
Dirk Bisschoff - lead guitar, supporting songwriter
Neil Breytenbach - keyboards, supporting songwriter

From a personal point of view, Prime Circle have been very important to me as they got me interested in the local music scene and to explore more into South Africa's amazing music. I have had the privilege of seeing them live on numerous occasions and they have definitely been amazing.

Prime Circle - All Or Nothing (2008)

This was Prime Circle's "Al-Grande" which was released in 2008 off the EMI label. The album is a representative of all that is great about South Africa. It is a blend of hard-rocking tunes and soft yet powerful tracks. The energy and enthusiasm they bring to the table is great, paired with a couple guitars, a drum set and a great band leader, who is also a great lyricist, you arguably have SA's finest rock group.

Taster: Taster: Prime Circle - Taster.rar

zeppy111 · 07-18-2009, 07:58 AM

Album: 1. Dire Straits – On Every Street
Year: 1991
Genre: Rock

Although most people recognise Dire Straits with ‘Sultans of Swing’ or “Brothers in Arms,’ the fairly under-appreciated final album is definitely one for the music collection. Mark Knopfler is as always on top form, his slick riffs and laid-back vocals are a mainstay throughout his career and this album was no exception. The band supported him well in creating some really chilled songs which are great to hear anytime of day. The only draw back to this album is knowing that when it is finished, there are no more Dire Straits albums waiting in the pipeline.

Highlight: On Every Street

Album: 2. Annihilator – Alice In Hell
Year: 1989
Genre: Thrash Metal

When people hear thrash metal, we automatically think: Slayer, Metallica, Anthrax and Megadeath, me included. Although they are the 4 major bands, thrash metal evolved all over the planet from far-off Germany to Brazil. Canadian band ‘Annihilator’ released this, their debut album, in 1989 and to this day it is regarded as a great album for thrash metal. Now you don’t just want some dude shredding all day with no proficiency, lots of people can play fast, but the guitar work on this album is amazing. It is lightning-quick, in-your face and technical as all hell. Mixed in with the odd high-pitched squeal and the occurrence of a classical guitar, it makes for great listening. ‘Alice in Hell,’ is definitely a good album for anyone wanting to explore thrash metal a bit with no prior knowledge of it.

Highlight: Alison Hell

Album: 3. Burning Spear - Farover
Year: 1982
Genre: Roots Reggae

My first delve into reggae started just over a month ago, thanks to the sticky in the Reaggae/Ska section of MB, and was it a great decision? Hell yes. Although this album was not on the lists of essential albums, it was the only one of Burning Spear’s albums I could come across. Heavily influenced by Marcus Garvey (Title of his most well known album) and a certain Bob Marley, you are guaranteed for an album full of passion, determination, and various other emotions which depend on the listeners interpretations. (Definitely worth reading up on both of those men) The passion behind his music and the message he is trying to get across is a great feat in itself, along with some catchy rhythms, deep Jamaican chants and a cd player, you are set for a treat. Another great trait of this album, and most reggae is that it depends on how you interpret the music, do you feel pity for the people? Do you praise them for standing up for what they believe is right? Do you not look any further than the actual beat itself? It is up to you…

Highlight: Farover

zeppy111 · 07-20-2009, 11:14 AM

John Butler Trio - Ocean

I would love to give you guys a nice little review on this song so you could get a background on it, but I am too lost for words at the moment to function after listening to this song for the past hour or so on repeat.

For more info on this Australian jam band, visit their official site. That is about all I can recall about them at this point of time. Enjoy!

zeppy111 · 07-25-2009, 06:29 AM

Album: 1. Yazoo – Upstairs At Erics
Year: 1982
Genre: Synthpop

By 2009, I am sure that most people and their mothers have heard of the 80’s synthpop duo of Alison Moyet and Vince Clarke, collectively known as Yazoo. Although they were short lived, only realising two albums, this being the debut, they have had a major effect on modern pop scenes and the billboards of the early 80’s. This album is the lesser in popularity which really baffles me because it contains some really splendid tracks such as ‘Only You,’ ‘Goodbye 70’s’ and ‘Don’t Go.’ If you are looking for crazy guitar solos, or crunching drum pieces, go elsewhere but for anyone who hasn’t heard this album before and wants some catchy synth beats and easy-listening vocals, you can’t go wrong.

Highlight: Don’t Go

Album: 2. Leonard Cohen – Songs of Leonard Cohen
Year: 1968
Genre: Folk

A collaboration of Cohen’s vocals, mastered poetic lyrics and the reality of the music make this arguably one of the most powerful albums I have ever listened too. Categorised as folk, is almost an injustice as it was not related to any folk movements or societies, rather just a singer/songwriter with a love for poetry and a will to slay people with his voice.

Highlight: Suzanne

Album: 3. The Darkness – Permission To Land
Year: 2003
Genre: Glam Rock

To begin, this is a strange inclusion as this album is not going to appeal for many but I have my reasons for including it. This was The Darkness’s debut album, and their best in my opinion, although they gained much success on the charts, their music is still something that would sound quite ‘new’ to most, and they definitely do have a strange sound. From their OTT performances, the thought of a 21st century glam rock band and Dawkins’s raging falsetto voice, this album is either hit or miss, you either love it or hate it. No in-betweens.

Highlight: Friday Night

Bulldog · 07-25-2009, 07:20 AM

Some interesting albums you've highlighted here. With the exception of the Darkness (really can't stand them I'm afraid), there are some names I should investigate a little further. Oddly enough, I don't actually have that Burning Spear album myself, so I'll definitely track that one down soon enough. Good call on Songs Of Leonard Cohen too - you've just reminded me that I need to update my discography thread on him very soon, so cheers for that

Just gonna download that Prime Circle taster now. I'll post back and let you know what I think of them.

zeppy111 · 07-25-2009, 09:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bulldog

Some interesting albums you've highlighted here. With the exception of the Darkness (really can't stand them I'm afraid), there are some names I should investigate a little further. Oddly enough, I don't actually have that Burning Spear album myself, so I'll definitely track that one down soon enough. Good call on Songs Of Leonard Cohen too - you've just reminded me that I need to update my discography thread on him very soon, so cheers for that

Just gonna download that Prime Circle taster now. I'll post back and let you know what I think of them.

Somehow I knew that The Darkness wasn't going to go down well. Oh well. I think it is pretty cool purely on his voice, not on the actual spirit or talent of the music, as it lacks both to some extent.

If it is going to be anything like Costello's thread, it should be damn good and you should definitely get that thread going.

Cheers.

zeppy111 · 08-01-2009, 01:39 AM

Album: 1. Lou Reed - Transformer
Year: 1972
Genre: Rock/Glam-Rock

After his debut S/T album that was a commercial failure to most people, Reed released this peach of an album, Transformer. I know that it is arguably his most well-known album, and that most people already have it, and generally love it, this shout out is for the people that have never been blessed with the solo work of the ex-Velvet Underground guitarist and singer.

The album is a fine example of what Reed brought to VU and why they were such a success, such a talented guitarist and vocalist, although it could be argued that the drugs could have been the main contributors. Some of the songs such “Andy’s Chest” and “Satellite Of Love” were either released or linked to his VU days in some way, but sometimes branching away from the popish sounds, to a more adagio based set of songs/ballads. As well as Lou Reed, musicians such as David Bowie and Mick Ronson were involved in the project. Honestly, what is there to not look forward to?

Highlight: Satellite of Love

Album: 2. Damian Marley – Welcome To Jamrock
Year: 2005
Genre: Reggae

When I come to think of it, if your surname was Marley, and you had a father named Bob, you were blessed with some pretty spectacular genes. Damian is one of the many Marley’s, who have been a driving force in the reggae scene for the past 50+ years. Revolving around the regular topics of poverty and politics, this album is not on passion or lyrical insight. The most recognisable aspect to Damian and how you could tell him apart from his many siblings, is the use of the vocal technique of “toasting,” which in a nut-shell is when the artist either speaks or chants the lyrics over the beat or music. It may have been un-intentional at the time, but this album is almost foreshadowing his new release with Nas. This ranks right up their as one of the finer reggae albums I have heard, and you should too and if you think that he has a free-ride because of his father, you will be very surprised.

Highlight: Welcome to Jamrock

Album: 3. A Silver Mt. Zion - He Has Left Us Alone but Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corner of Our Rooms…
Year: 2000
Genre: Post-Rock/Experimental Rock

The debut album from the ever changing band which for this album was called A Silver Mt Zion… What a debut it was. It is predominantly an instrumental album, which lyrics/vocals only appearing on two of the tracks, which really showcased musicians in their zone. The whole album is a concoction of delightful sounds ranging from soothing piano to violin to clarinet, which makes up for the lack of vocals. I would compare it to records such as, “GY!BE – Lift Your Skinny Fists…” or “Maudlin Of The Well – Part The Second.” Although it shows characterises of these albums, it does not mimic, or sound boring even to someone who has listened to both of them more than 20 times, which definitely shows that their originality and zest.

(On a side note this album is challenging the top 3 spots for album of the decade personally. Behind the two mentioned above and The White Stripes – Elephant.)

Highlight: Blown-out Joy from Heaven's Mercied Hole

07-13-2009, 02:54 PM	#1 (permalink)
zeppy111 16, so? Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: South Africa Posts: 630	Guy's Gallivant Into Music Well my first journal here is not going to be earth-shattering but hopefully will interest some to check out the music here and maybe explore some music unknown or lost to you over the years. What you can expect so far: - Short write-ups on a few albums that I have listened to during the week that I think should get a few plays by MB. - A dip into modern South African music. Reviews, mixtapes, videos... - Anthing that I can think of that sounds somewhat interesting. - Songs that are stuck in my head and that I need to transfer to someone else I will have my first couple albums up soon. If anyone would like PM's, just shout and I will try my best. Cheers Guy __________________ My Blog (album of the day): http://musicfromthesouth.blogspot.com

07-13-2009, 04:32 PM	#2 (permalink)
zeppy111 16, so? Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: South Africa Posts: 630	Top Albums 6-13/07/09 Album: 1. Efterklang – Under Giant Trees Year: 2007 Genre: Post Rock The ever changing Danish band plays a mish-mosh of sounds ranging from electronica to post-rock, in what I would call a predominately post-rock based album. Post-rock has either hits or misses with people, being claimed sometimes to be flat out boring, and this is why the album is such a success as it never fails to capture your attention. A range of instruments such as the violin, trombone and flute can be heard during this exciting, yet soothing piece of music. A must-hear for those who slam the genre and likewise those who enjoy it too. Highlight: Himmelbjerget Album: 2. Il Balletto Di Bronzo – Ys Year: 1972 Genre: Italian Progressive Rock The Italian progressive rock group with this album arguably produced one of the most epic albums of its time and scene. The album is a collection of the necessities that you would want from an album of its sought, as well as their own very unique sound, which is a big plus as nowadays many people perceive prog to sound ‘all the same,’ which is clearly not the case here. Not that many will understand the lyrics with them being in Italian, they are a lovely addition to the music. The album has a flow of great rhythm, sweet guitar tunes and unique yet loveable vocals. A true classic of progressive music. Highlight: Secondo Incontro Album: 3. Elvis Costello – My Aim Is True Year: 1977 Genre: Rock I think by now everyone knows who Mr Costello is so he needs no introduction. The debut album from Costello is a great point to start out for the new fan and although it contains some songs that lack great production and recording, (Mystery Dance) that is why you have to love the album, the un-polished, unrefined yet powerful and energetic music which would change in the latter albums. The album does contain the ever-present lyrics, that Costello seemed to write so well throughout his career and this album is no exception. Highlight: Watching The Detectives __________________ My Blog (album of the day): http://musicfromthesouth.blogspot.com

07-15-2009, 07:14 AM	#4 (permalink)
zeppy111 16, so? Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: South Africa Posts: 630	Welcome To South Africa South Africa is a country bustling with exciting and talented bands and musicians, who just cannot seem to make it onto the world music scene like the Aussie's or even South America. The country is most notably recognised for icons such as Nelson Mandela, The Springbok rugby team and possibly Ladysmith Black Mambazo, but it is time that the modern South African musicians got heard by the world. Artist #1: PRIME CIRCLE Prime circle are a rock/alternative band that hail from Witbank, Mpumalanga. (Which is about an hour or so outside Johannesburg for those unfamiliar with the country) The band formed back in 2001 and were signed to a minor record label and released two full-length studio albums of this label and an EP. By the time that the second album 'Live This Life' had been released they were SA's biggest selling rock band. In 2008 they moved across to the EMI label and released the album "All Or Nothing" which has undoubtedly been their most successful album and has sky-rocketed them to absolute superstardom within the local music scene. Although they have released a couple studio albums, they are a great sight to see up on stage and fill stadiums, arenas, festivals, you name it and they will fill it with fans. Their live shows are arguably one of the best in the country and pack a major punch. They have been part of a few major shows such as the CokeFest in 2006 which saw bands such as Metallica, Simple Plan and Collective Soul performing to, as well as being the opening band for "LIVE" when they toured South Africa. The band personnel is as follows: Ross Learmonth - vocals, rhythm guitar, primary songwriter Gerhard Venter - drums, backing vocals, supporting songwriter Marco Gomes - bass, supporting songwriter Dirk Bisschoff - lead guitar, supporting songwriter Neil Breytenbach - keyboards, supporting songwriter From a personal point of view, Prime Circle have been very important to me as they got me interested in the local music scene and to explore more into South Africa's amazing music. I have had the privilege of seeing them live on numerous occasions and they have definitely been amazing. Prime Circle - All Or Nothing (2008) This was Prime Circle's "Al-Grande" which was released in 2008 off the EMI label. The album is a representative of all that is great about South Africa. It is a blend of hard-rocking tunes and soft yet powerful tracks. The energy and enthusiasm they bring to the table is great, paired with a couple guitars, a drum set and a great band leader, who is also a great lyricist, you arguably have SA's finest rock group. Taster: Taster: Prime Circle - Taster.rar __________________ My Blog (album of the day): http://musicfromthesouth.blogspot.com

07-18-2009, 07:58 AM	#5 (permalink)
zeppy111 16, so? Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: South Africa Posts: 630	Weekly Albums #2 Album: 1. Dire Straits – On Every Street Year: 1991 Genre: Rock Although most people recognise Dire Straits with ‘Sultans of Swing’ or “Brothers in Arms,’ the fairly under-appreciated final album is definitely one for the music collection. Mark Knopfler is as always on top form, his slick riffs and laid-back vocals are a mainstay throughout his career and this album was no exception. The band supported him well in creating some really chilled songs which are great to hear anytime of day. The only draw back to this album is knowing that when it is finished, there are no more Dire Straits albums waiting in the pipeline. Highlight: On Every Street Album: 2. Annihilator – Alice In Hell Year: 1989 Genre: Thrash Metal When people hear thrash metal, we automatically think: Slayer, Metallica, Anthrax and Megadeath, me included. Although they are the 4 major bands, thrash metal evolved all over the planet from far-off Germany to Brazil. Canadian band ‘Annihilator’ released this, their debut album, in 1989 and to this day it is regarded as a great album for thrash metal. Now you don’t just want some dude shredding all day with no proficiency, lots of people can play fast, but the guitar work on this album is amazing. It is lightning-quick, in-your face and technical as all hell. Mixed in with the odd high-pitched squeal and the occurrence of a classical guitar, it makes for great listening. ‘Alice in Hell,’ is definitely a good album for anyone wanting to explore thrash metal a bit with no prior knowledge of it. Highlight: Alison Hell Album: 3. Burning Spear - Farover Year: 1982 Genre: Roots Reggae My first delve into reggae started just over a month ago, thanks to the sticky in the Reaggae/Ska section of MB, and was it a great decision? Hell yes. Although this album was not on the lists of essential albums, it was the only one of Burning Spear’s albums I could come across. Heavily influenced by Marcus Garvey (Title of his most well known album) and a certain Bob Marley, you are guaranteed for an album full of passion, determination, and various other emotions which depend on the listeners interpretations. (Definitely worth reading up on both of those men) The passion behind his music and the message he is trying to get across is a great feat in itself, along with some catchy rhythms, deep Jamaican chants and a cd player, you are set for a treat. Another great trait of this album, and most reggae is that it depends on how you interpret the music, do you feel pity for the people? Do you praise them for standing up for what they believe is right? Do you not look any further than the actual beat itself? It is up to you… Highlight: Farover __________________ My Blog (album of the day): http://musicfromthesouth.blogspot.com

07-20-2009, 11:14 AM	#6 (permalink)
zeppy111 16, so? Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: South Africa Posts: 630	Song To Check Out #1 John Butler Trio - Ocean I would love to give you guys a nice little review on this song so you could get a background on it, but I am too lost for words at the moment to function after listening to this song for the past hour or so on repeat. For more info on this Australian jam band, visit their official site. That is about all I can recall about them at this point of time. Enjoy! __________________ My Blog (album of the day): http://musicfromthesouth.blogspot.com

07-14-2009, 09:15 AM	#3 (permalink)
Bulldog why bother? Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: UK Posts: 4,840	Interesting take on My Aim Is True there. I've said many times before that it's nowhere near my favourite of his, but it's still a very good album - the songwriting (lyrically and musically) is sharp as nails. Haven't come across those other two before (although Il Balletto Di Bronzo do ring a bell), but that's what keeps thread like this interesting. Keep this going eh

07-25-2009, 06:29 AM	#7 (permalink)
zeppy111 16, so? Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: South Africa Posts: 630	Weekly Albums #3 Album: 1. Yazoo – Upstairs At Erics Year: 1982 Genre: Synthpop By 2009, I am sure that most people and their mothers have heard of the 80’s synthpop duo of Alison Moyet and Vince Clarke, collectively known as Yazoo. Although they were short lived, only realising two albums, this being the debut, they have had a major effect on modern pop scenes and the billboards of the early 80’s. This album is the lesser in popularity which really baffles me because it contains some really splendid tracks such as ‘Only You,’ ‘Goodbye 70’s’ and ‘Don’t Go.’ If you are looking for crazy guitar solos, or crunching drum pieces, go elsewhere but for anyone who hasn’t heard this album before and wants some catchy synth beats and easy-listening vocals, you can’t go wrong. Highlight: Don’t Go Album: 2. Leonard Cohen – Songs of Leonard Cohen Year: 1968 Genre: Folk A collaboration of Cohen’s vocals, mastered poetic lyrics and the reality of the music make this arguably one of the most powerful albums I have ever listened too. Categorised as folk, is almost an injustice as it was not related to any folk movements or societies, rather just a singer/songwriter with a love for poetry and a will to slay people with his voice. Highlight: Suzanne Album: 3. The Darkness – Permission To Land Year: 2003 Genre: Glam Rock To begin, this is a strange inclusion as this album is not going to appeal for many but I have my reasons for including it. This was The Darkness’s debut album, and their best in my opinion, although they gained much success on the charts, their music is still something that would sound quite ‘new’ to most, and they definitely do have a strange sound. From their OTT performances, the thought of a 21st century glam rock band and Dawkins’s raging falsetto voice, this album is either hit or miss, you either love it or hate it. No in-betweens. Highlight: Friday Night __________________ My Blog (album of the day): http://musicfromthesouth.blogspot.com

07-25-2009, 07:20 AM	#8 (permalink)
Bulldog why bother? Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: UK Posts: 4,840	Some interesting albums you've highlighted here. With the exception of the Darkness (really can't stand them I'm afraid), there are some names I should investigate a little further. Oddly enough, I don't actually have that Burning Spear album myself, so I'll definitely track that one down soon enough. Good call on Songs Of Leonard Cohen too - you've just reminded me that I need to update my discography thread on him very soon, so cheers for that Just gonna download that Prime Circle taster now. I'll post back and let you know what I think of them.

08-01-2009, 01:39 AM	#10 (permalink)
zeppy111 16, so? Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: South Africa Posts: 630	Weekly Albums #4 Album: 1. Lou Reed - Transformer Year: 1972 Genre: Rock/Glam-Rock After his debut S/T album that was a commercial failure to most people, Reed released this peach of an album, Transformer. I know that it is arguably his most well-known album, and that most people already have it, and generally love it, this shout out is for the people that have never been blessed with the solo work of the ex-Velvet Underground guitarist and singer. The album is a fine example of what Reed brought to VU and why they were such a success, such a talented guitarist and vocalist, although it could be argued that the drugs could have been the main contributors. Some of the songs such “Andy’s Chest” and “Satellite Of Love” were either released or linked to his VU days in some way, but sometimes branching away from the popish sounds, to a more adagio based set of songs/ballads. As well as Lou Reed, musicians such as David Bowie and Mick Ronson were involved in the project. Honestly, what is there to not look forward to? Highlight: Satellite of Love Album: 2. Damian Marley – Welcome To Jamrock Year: 2005 Genre: Reggae When I come to think of it, if your surname was Marley, and you had a father named Bob, you were blessed with some pretty spectacular genes. Damian is one of the many Marley’s, who have been a driving force in the reggae scene for the past 50+ years. Revolving around the regular topics of poverty and politics, this album is not on passion or lyrical insight. The most recognisable aspect to Damian and how you could tell him apart from his many siblings, is the use of the vocal technique of “toasting,” which in a nut-shell is when the artist either speaks or chants the lyrics over the beat or music. It may have been un-intentional at the time, but this album is almost foreshadowing his new release with Nas. This ranks right up their as one of the finer reggae albums I have heard, and you should too and if you think that he has a free-ride because of his father, you will be very surprised. Highlight: Welcome to Jamrock Album: 3. A Silver Mt. Zion - He Has Left Us Alone but Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corner of Our Rooms… Year: 2000 Genre: Post-Rock/Experimental Rock The debut album from the ever changing band which for this album was called A Silver Mt Zion… What a debut it was. It is predominantly an instrumental album, which lyrics/vocals only appearing on two of the tracks, which really showcased musicians in their zone. The whole album is a concoction of delightful sounds ranging from soothing piano to violin to clarinet, which makes up for the lack of vocals. I would compare it to records such as, “GY!BE – Lift Your Skinny Fists…” or “Maudlin Of The Well – Part The Second.” Although it shows characterises of these albums, it does not mimic, or sound boring even to someone who has listened to both of them more than 20 times, which definitely shows that their originality and zest. (On a side note this album is challenging the top 3 spots for album of the decade personally. Behind the two mentioned above and The White Stripes – Elephant.) Highlight: Blown-out Joy from Heaven's Mercied Hole __________________ My Blog (album of the day): http://musicfromthesouth.blogspot.com