Guy's Gallivant Into Music

zeppy111 · 07-13-2009, 01:54 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, 03:32 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, 08:15 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, 06:14 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, 06:58 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, 10:14 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!

jackhammer · 08-01-2009, 06:03 PM

I have a lot of respect for Welcome To Jamrock introducing many people to Reggae but all told it's a pretty poor example of Jamacian music and the RnB elements really jar with me. The title track is damn good though as is 'All night' although the drum sample used is very old hat.

zeppy111 · 08-09-2009, 01:06 AM

Album: 1. Kate Bush – The Kick Inside
Year: 1978
Genre: Pop/Rock

By this modern day and age we are almost all aware of the name Kate Bush, but that is generally for her hit “Wuthering Heights,” and known as a one-hit wonder by most of my community, which is what inspired me to feature her this week in my albums. The Kick Inside, could easily crack into the top tier of my favourite albums. Her distinct voice could be picked out individually from a pool of thousands, is only one aspect to be focused on during your experience, others include: Catchy rhythms, powerful lyrics, and I will leave the rest up to you. The music you encounter on this album is mesmerising too, considering she was only 19 years old when the album was released and arguably one of the greatest albums by a women/debutant/singer-songwriter/under 20…

Highlight: Wuthering Heights, A Kick Inside

Album: 2. At The Drive-In – Vaya EP
Year: 1999
Genre: Post-Hardcore

After receiving all of ATDI’s albums and EP’s over a week ago, barring “Relationship Command,” which I have had for a few months, they have quickly jumped up my overall standings and one of my preferred bands and for good reasons. For those who don’t know who they are, which is almost impossible seeing how much mention they get around here, ATDI was the project that Cedric and Omar, know known as The Mars Volta were involved with.

The Vaya EP is a collection of their tracks that were produced in the lead up to “Relationship Command” and following “In/Casino/Out,” which contains only one of seven tracks that never made it onto an official studio album. The class of ATDI’s raw power prevails as it did throughout the albums previously and the ones to follow, and for songs of such caliber to not make an album, is another positive.

As it has only had a couple listens, there is not much insight into the music, but more to say that anyone who has not picked up any of their stuff, or were lingering onto “Relationship Command” as it seems is the prized album, you certainly can’t go wrong with this little EP.

Highlight: Metronome Arthritis

Album: 3. Melody Gardot – My One And Only Thrill
Year: 2009
Genre: Jazz

Melody Gardot is an American jazz singer, and a very inspirational and talented one at that. After being paralysed at 19, she attended ‘Music Therapy’ classes and refers to the title of the album as her thoughts on music. Although she does battle to sit down to play the piano, and has to use a walking stick, she gets around and is making some fine music.

A soothing voice, lovely orchestral pieces and never knowing what is going to come next, are the attributes that make this album a real belter. Melody draws on many different ranges of music and styles such as Samba, and a range of vocals that can be so sweet one minute and the next so powerful. If that wasn’t enough, we are even treated to a delightful track sung in French “Les Etoiles.”

Highlight: Les Etoiles

Quote:

Originally Posted by jackhammer

I have a lot of respect for Welcome To Jamrock introducing many people to Reggae but all told it's a pretty poor example of Jamacian music and the RnB elements really jar with me. The title track is damn good though as is 'All night' although the drum sample used is very old hat.

Well it is not in the same tone as a Burning Spear record or Culture, but as you said, it is a really good record to intoduce people to reggae with. Case proven: most of my friends listen to the stuff on the radio, so I have this playing one day when they come over, I found out a couple days later all three of them went out and bought the album. And one of them took it upon themselves to get a couple other reggae albums. Success! Title track and Road to Zion are two steller tracks.

zeppy111 · 08-15-2009, 09:34 AM

Black Uhuru - Youth Of Eglington

Black Uhuru are a Jamaican reggae band originating in the mid 70's.
They have been a shamble when it comes to their line ups during their career.

This song is the first track off of the album "Red," which was released in 1981 and came in the middle of the high point in their career to many peoples eyes.

This song sums up all of the great aspects of reggae that i have come to know of in my short stint of time with her. Powerful lyrical content, catchy rythms, sick beats... A beautiful song and a superb album.

Bulldog · 08-16-2009, 08:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zeppy111

Black Uhuru - Youth Of Eglington

Hey, good post this. Red is indeed an absolutely fantastic album (Sinsemilla runs it close though - you might wanna look out for that if you don't already have it), and that's one of my favourite tracks off it. It's just an end-to-end, brilliant album though and still among my all-time favourites. Great album to get any less reggae-literate people you know into the stuff too (it's worked with everyone I've lent it to myself anyway).

Interesting album picks lately as well. I always find it strange how I still haven't given Kate Bush a chance, because I do like the stuff of hers that I've heard. ATDR I appreciate and as for Melody Gardot, another top pick.

Keep these coming eh

07-13-2009, 01:54 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, 03:32 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, 06:14 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, 06:58 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, 10:14 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, 08:15 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

08-01-2009, 06:03 PM	#7 (permalink)
jackhammer Ba and Be. Join Date: May 2007 Location: This Is England Posts: 17,331	I have a lot of respect for Welcome To Jamrock introducing many people to Reggae but all told it's a pretty poor example of Jamacian music and the RnB elements really jar with me. The title track is damn good though as is 'All night' although the drum sample used is very old hat. __________________ It be my music and film collection. “A cynic by experience, a romantic by inclination and now a hero by necessity.”

08-15-2009, 09:34 AM	#9 (permalink)
zeppy111 16, so? Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: South Africa Posts: 630	Song #2 Black Uhuru - Youth Of Eglington Black Uhuru are a Jamaican reggae band originating in the mid 70's. They have been a shamble when it comes to their line ups during their career. This song is the first track off of the album "Red," which was released in 1981 and came in the middle of the high point in their career to many peoples eyes. This song sums up all of the great aspects of reggae that i have come to know of in my short stint of time with her. Powerful lyrical content, catchy rythms, sick beats... A beautiful song and a superb album. __________________ My Blog (album of the day): http://musicfromthesouth.blogspot.com