There's a Cure for that you know?

Tonight culminated a serious relationship that began when I was 15 years old. I had always been a fan of The Cure, I've written about them a few times on this blog, but there was a certain night when I was 15 that changed everything. It sounds silly, but it was something as simple as having a dream. Yes, I had a dream that I would meet Robert Smith and the rest of the band. The dream was actually them coming to my house and performing one of my favorite B-sides, "A Few Hours After This." It was so surreal and real at the same time that when I woke up the next morning an obsession was born. I don't think I've told that story to anyone in all of these years. I just usually say they've always been my favorite band. I mean, that would sound pretty ridiculous, right? I've always loved them and their sound, but in those early teen years I really started grasping their sound after that dream. I always felt like the girl who didn't fit in or belong in school so I turned to music. I still remember being in the back of the bus after Friday night football games with my Walkman listening to 'Disintegration', an album that still is pretty influential in my life. Then when I turned 15, I got way more into music than I ever had been in my life. I grew up with music and always loved music, but it was like a switch got turned on that year. I have written about it before so I'll save the details. So, when I had that dream, and became "obsessed" with this band from England, my whole life changed. I had to have every album they created, but more to that, I had to see them live. At that time, it was pretty unknown whether or not they'd create another album or tour again, so I had no choice but to search for what was available at that time.

'Show' was my first live VHS from the 1992 Wish tour and it was my first "live" Cure experience. After that, I found 'The Cure: Live in Orange' (filmed and directed by Tim Pope who will become important later), then I got my hands on 'The Cure Play Out', 'Picture Show' and 'Staring at the Sea' videos. During that time, I grew to love the art of making music videos, whether it was live or on a set and Tim Pope became my first music video director muse. That was then followed by fellow geniuses Anton Corbijn and Stephane Sednaoui, just to name a few. I was deadset on moving to London to go to art school to learn how to make music videos. That was my dream.

Photo by the amazingly talented, Debi Del Grande

When the Hyde Park 40th Anniversary show was announced last year, I was gutted that I couldn't make it work for me to attend. I knew I'd be going to London for work, but the timing didn't work. So tonight, I got my redemption. I got to see the show that I couldn't attend. I got to sing and dance almost as much as I would have had I been at that Hyde Park show. And once again Tim Pope did an amazing job at capturing the spirit of a band that he's followed for so many years. After 40 years, this band seems to be hitting another "peak" in their career. After getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Nine Inch Nails frontman, Trent Reznor, they have gone on to play multiple shows including an appearance at a castle in Dublin, followed by numerous festival dates to keep them busy throughout the summer months. I am happy to say that I will be seeing them at Austin City Limits Festival in October and as much as I hate festivals, I truly can't wait to see my favorite band live again.

Tonight, the 15 year old me came out to enjoy the show. Tonight I was reminded why I love this band so much. Tonight I met others who also love and appreciate this band as much as I do. I can't explain my obsession with The Cure. All I can say is that to this day, at this point in their career, they are still one of absolute best live bands I have ever seen and Robert Smith's lyrics move my heart to another level and I just hope everyone can experience that in their lifetime. I can't wait for October when I get experience these lovely souls live again. Until then, enjoy their magical full 'Disintegration' set from Sydney below.

Because Music is Home

"I only wanted to see you, Laughing in the purple rain"

As usual, my thoughts for a blog post have completely escaped my mind the second I sit down to write. So I'm sharing this instead. I heard it on the way home tonight and it's always been one of my favorite Depeche Mode songs. I think it's appropriate for today's news of the passing of one of my favorite artists of all time. Prince was one of those larger than life artists. He came into my life at a young age, around the same time as Duran Duran, and I quickly held onto his sound and never let go. When I was a kid, he was like one of those forbidden fruits because he was someone my dad didn't really want me listening to, but I did anyway because of my sisters. The movie and album 'Purple Rain' have been a part of my life for so long they're like an old friend. I remember listening to the cassette of that album, and wearing it out, when I bought my first car in 1999. I would cruise down the street with "The Beautiful Ones" and "Baby I'm a Star" blaring and the windows rolled down.

Every time a celebrity dies, fans mourn and the question always gets asked as to "why" do we mourn these people. In most cases, we've never met them. We certainly don't usually know them on a personal level as we do many other people in our lives. I found this article earlier today shortly after the announcement of Prince's death. While this article makes a lot of sense, I think the explanation is pretty simple. People turn to music as an escape from their every day life. Whether it's to get over a broken heart, celebrate a victory or just to relax from a tough day, music has been there. In a time when so much ugliness plagues our news and airwaves, music is a sense of therapy for many. I know it certainly has been for me over the years. Music has always been home to me. It's always been my comfort. My escape. I turned to it when my parents divorced when I was a teenager. I submerse myself in it to this day when I have something going on in my life, good or bad. It gets me through the day. And it has brought me family. So when an artist that I admire passes, it hurts. And it sucks. And today it sucked a lot. I started the week out excited to be seeing the first band I ever loved live again this weekend and then to this morning, I was celebrating the birthday of a man whose music has touched my life and my heart for so many years and getting excited about that show next month to then feeling the heartache after hearing of Prince's passing. When the news last Friday of his emergency landing because he was ill broke, my friend I was having dinner with thought something far worse had happened and I was like, no, he's fine, it's Prince. Nothing can happen to him. And now he's gone. So hearing these lyrics again, felt like, well, home. I still can't believe this year has already seen so many talented people go. But I do know that in the end, the music will always live on. RIP Prince Rogers Nelson and all of the others that have left us too soon. And thank you to music for showing me home.

"Finally I've found that I belong here"

My Monkey's Gone to Heaven

"How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard." 

April 22, 2006 is a day that will forever be engraved in my heart. That was the day that I rescued Gabby from a life of loneliness and brought her home to be with me. I wanted to get a dog because I needed a good distraction to get over a broken heart and when I had mentioned it to my stepmother, she said her vet was trying to rehome a young male Maltese dog. The only Maltese I’d ever been exposed to were her dogs, and one of those wasn’t the nicest to most people. I wasn’t sure I wanted a Maltese or a male (funny how that works now, Simon), but I went ahead and called the lady that was looking for a new home for him. However, when I called about him, she mentioned to me that she also had a 5 ½ year old female Yorkie that needed a home as well and that was a dog I had always wanted. There was a bit of back and forth in the beginning as to whether or not I’d even get her because another family had just decided they’d like to take her. I was heartbroken, but when the lady said, “don’t give up hope yet, the new family may not even work out,” I just kept telling myself that if it’s meant to be, it’ll happen. Sure enough, a couple of days later, Gabby and that other family didn’t work out so I made arrangements to come meet her that following weekend. I had no idea what to expect and now I can’t even remember if I’d seen any pictures of Gabby prior to meeting her, I don’t think I did. I did have some hesitation about how all of this would go. I personally had never cared for a dog and wasn’t sure how I was going to do this. All of that faded away when I got to the house and sat down and the lady handed Gabby to me. She looked up at me, her hair cutely arranged in a red and white bow, with loving eyes that basically said, “get me the hell out of here please.” And so I did. I drove straight over to my parents’ house and introduced them to the newest member of the family. It was there that we realized just how neglected Gabby had been, her teeth so bad that she had to get quite a few of them pulled when she went in to get spayed that week. Gabby had also never been properly housetrained. Remember, she lived her life mostly in a crate and was used for breeding what I’m guessing were AKC yorkie pups. I never received papers on her though. I kept thinking how people could just not want this dog and I was going to do whatever I could to give her the best life I could.

As time went on, Gabby became my #1, my sidekick, and the one thing that would be there for me during all of my moves, all of the tears, all of the laughter, all of the outings, and all of the late night snuggles. She was my Houdini dog, able to clear a 3 foot gate or a fence like it was nothing and never feared anything or anyone. She had the absolute heart of an angel and everyone that has ever met her, has fallen in love with her, yorkie bad breath and all. When she was about to turn 12, I brought a new addition into our family, Simon. I’m pretty sure she’s never forgiven me for that. I’m not sure how they feel about each other now as there have been some pretty nasty fights over the years, including one just this past weekend, but I am glad that she had company during these last few years to watch over her.

When Gabby was diagnosed with renal failure this past March, I knew that would be the end of a special journey that began so many years ago. Suddenly, she was a different dog that was not able to jump on the bed anymore (her only refuge from Simon since he can’t jump that high), she didn’t feel like doing much anymore, but hung in there for some long walks. Gabby was never much of a snuggler or a lap dog unless we weren’t home. I think it was her way to make sure I didn’t leave her somewhere, haha. During these last weeks, she’s slept closer to me at night than she ever had. She still greeted me at the door, but it was after I’d been home a while and she finally realized I was there. I can’t tell you how many times I came home, waiting to see if she was breathing or if she’d passed on while I was away. It is so very hard to see such a sweet soul deteriorate like that. I felt helpless and lost and have cried more in the past few months than I have in such a long time.

My sweet Gabby and I enjoying the waves in Galveston on one of our last outings together. 

Today I made the toughest decision I’ve had to ever make in my life and decided it was time to let my best friend go. They say when a dog is ready to cross the rainbow bridge, they will let you know. I probably ignored many signs, refusing to let her go, even though deep down I knew it had to be this way. It was getting to the point where I didn’t feel I could take very good care of my sweet girl anymore. So many nights we were getting up for bathroom trips outside or for her to get water. So many days I was coming home to more accidents in the house. So many days when she had no energy to do anything and I had to carry her downstairs. There were still plenty of good days though which made it even harder to say goodbye. I kept asking her what she needed, what she wanted, as if by some miracle this time she’d finally answer me, but her look in her eyes said it all. I fought this decision tooth and nail, begging and pleading to God to please let her pass peacefully in her sleep, but in the end, it was me who would have to make that choice. Gabby spent 15 years in this world, and I’m pretty sure 10 of those were the best years she could ever have hoped for. Now, she’s no longer in pain or feeling sick. She’s probably jumping up for treats and stealing chocolate out of the candy jar. And wherever she is, I know she’s watching out for me and Simon and keeping our hearts alive with the love she gave us. RIP my sweet monkey dog, Gabby. I am so grateful I got to be your mom and for the love you not only gave me, but in the many ways you taught me how to love. 

Ch-Ch-Changes

I haven't written in a while and that is mostly due to quite a bit of changes and other things going on in my life. One of the first changes is this blog. When I started this blog about 5 years ago, I did it as an outlet to write about music since at that time, that was my dream job and I wasn't having any luck finding a job due to my lack of inexperience or published work. Thankfully, blogging gives us a way to do what we'd like in that sense and I did get to write for a larger platform for a short time which gave me more exposure. Over the years, however, my enthusiasm, or I suppose a better way to put it, is that my ability to take the time to sit down and write more often has waned a little. I still go to shows or hear new bands and think of words that would be a great blog post, but then life gets in the way and those words are gone. So, things have just kind of sat stagnant here for a while. In following other blogs, I have decided that I wanted to shift the sole purpose of this blog from being about music, which I will still cover occasionally, to also including other interests and aspects of my life. I am planning on redoing the layout and changing the name at some point, but for now will continue being known as The Loudest Sound. 

Another change in my life is that I recently received my certification as a Personal Trainer. In my other blog, Rebel Fit Girl, I had hoped to chronicle my life as a Beachbody coach while sharing information about our programs, fitness tips, nutrition, etc., but just like this blog, life got in the way. However, my love of health and wellness never went away and earlier this year, I decided that I wanted to see if I could get certified, mostly for myself to know I could accomplish something that I had convinced myself so many times before that I would never be able to do, but also because I do have a desire to help others with their journey to health and wellness. I studied for about 3 months and then spent a weekend in a workshop where I met some other amazing women and learned their inspiring stories. Test day came and I was so nervous, but last week I received the fantastic news that I passed! Accomplishing that goal has definitely reignited my passion and I am working hard to get in the best shape of my life since I had been slacking so much these past few months. And then I plan to start training clients early next year, so stay tuned!

And finally, probably the biggest change that has recently surfaced is that I will be starting a new job next month! I will be taking a position within the finance department of a global travel management company and leaving the offshore world behind. There have been a lot of changes within the industry  I am leaving and I would be lying if I said I wasn't starting to feel a little nervous about where I would end up. This new and exciting opportunity presented itself and I truly believe I will continue to grow in so many ways. Plus, it's always been a dream of mine to travel and maybe live abroad and with our global presence, who knows! Maybe that will all come to fruition someday soon! 

So, with all of that out there and so many exciting possibilities ahead, I can't wait to get started on the next chapter of my life and hope that you will come along for the ride!  

My Music Monday: Duran Duran

August 10th marks Duran Duran Appreciation Day, a day created several years ago by a Michigan disc jockey because it coincided with his birthday. It is a day that Duranies all over the world have grown to celebrate the 35 years of music this beloved British band has given us. Since today is Duran Duran Appreciation Day and in anticipation of their newest studio album, Paper Gods, releasing next month, I felt it only appropriate to make today's My Music Monday about one of my all time favorite bands.

I have spoken about my love affair with DD a few times on this blog. It all started back in 1984 when I was about 4 or 5 years old and my older sister had the Cinemax/MTV film "As the Lights Go Down" on VHS and we would watch it non-stop. That was when I first laid eyes on the boyishly handsome bass player, John Taylor. I was immediately in love and that crush continues today. There have been many other music loves in my life since then, but DD will always be my first music affair and it still holds strong to this day. Below are a few videos of some of my favorite songs by the band. It really was hard to not just give you their entire catalog, haha. Happy DD Appreciation Day to all my fellow Duranies! Enjoy!

First on the list, is my all time favorite DD song. I actually found the version from that film that started it all. The first time I saw DD was in 2004 with all of the original members back together. I had the flu, but I was not missing this night. I wasn't sure if I'd get to hear my favorite song, but then Simon pulled out that flute and it ended up being one of the best versions I'd ever heard. They have been playing it during their recent shows so I am really hoping when it comes time to tour for Paper Gods, they will leave it in the set list. The original video for this song was definitely a little risque, similar to the "Girls on Film" video. To this day, this song gives me goosebumps. Pure perfection.

Next up is "The Seventh Stranger" from probably my favorite DD album, Seven and the Ragged Tiger. This song just buries itself into my soul to this day.  When I read John Taylor's autobiography, I loved how he described Simon's ability to just write a song in no time. I chose "New Religion" from my second favorite album, Rio, because it combines all of the elements that make DD so good at what they do. That bass line, those lyrics, Nick's synths and keyboards. It all comes together to create such magic. If you've never seen the VH1 special about this album, I suggest watching it. This album was cutting edge for its time. Nick is pure genius with what he did with the sounds and how they recorded this album. My favorite part of this track, aside from those bass lines, is Simon's vocals layering over each other.  In 2011, Duran Duran released one of their best albums in a long time entitled All You Need is Now. It was the first time the band teamed up with producer Mark Ronson and he took that band to an all new level but reconnected them with their old sound at the same time. I was fortunate to catch DD early on this tour and saw them at a small venue here in Houston. After that, Simon experienced many issues regarding his voice and we weren't sure if they'd finish the tour let alone if he'd ever recover. Fortunately, he and his voice made a full recovery. My absolute favorite track from that album is "The Man who Stole a Leopard". Everything about it is classic DD. Pure beauty. I found this live version as well, but I couldn't embed it. 

My Music Monday: The Clash

Last week, reports started surfacing that Jonathan Rhys Meyers (Match Point, Tudors) would be portraying punk great Joe Strummer of The Clash in an upcoming movie called London Town. Set in 70's London, the movie, which began filming in London at the end of June and is expected to wrap up at the end of this month, is about a teenage boy who ventures into the great city in search of his estranged mother when his life is forever changed upon discovering the iconic band. As of now, there hasn't been a release date but it did get me cautiously excited about Meyers' portrayal of one of my favorite lyrical poets of all time and fortunately the film did secure rights to use original songs by The Clash which could be a good sign. I am definitely looking forward to the movie and I am sure as we get closer to it's release, more will be announced, but here are some great photos of JRM in his Strummer get up.

So for today's My Music Monday, I felt it appropriate to share some of my favorite songs by one of my most beloved bands. Strummer left this world too soon, but fortunately The Clash's music will forever live on.

First up, "Know Your Rights" from the album Combat Rock is always my go to get me going song.  Ooh, those guitars get me every time. Swoon.

  I think one of my favorite things I love about The Clash is their reggae inspired sound which is evident is song #2 today, "Straight to Hell" also from the Combat Rock album. Many might recognize this song from when it was sampled by British female rapper, M.I.A. for her song "Paper Planes". Those lyrics, though. I truly love what this band stood for. There will never be another band like The Clash or another front man like Joe Strummer. 

Duran Duran & Some Other Things

Gah, has it really been 2 1/2 months since my last post? I really didn't mean to disappear, but life got in the way and I had some things to take care of. Plus my computer has recently died on me so that's been fun.

 

Anyways, I have wanted to post about this exciting news for a while now and share it with you in case you haven't heard! My favorite boys from Birmingham, England are back and sounding as fresh and fantastic as they ever have. Teaming up with producer Mark Ronson for the second time in a row, along with some help from long time friend Nile Rodgers of Chic, Duran Duran are set to release their 14th studio album, Paper Gods, this September via Warner Bros. Records. The album features guests such as Janelle Monae, former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante, and a surprising appearance by Lindsay Lohan, which should be interesting to hear.

Paper Gods is willbe released in four formats including a deluxe edition with bonus tracks and a deluxe LP box set so there will be a little something for all Duranies to add to their collections. The first single, "Pressure Off", was released a few weeks ago and has that familiar Mark Ronson "Uptown Funk"/"Girls on Film" vibe going for it. The track also features guests previously mentioned guests Nile Rodgers and Janelle Monae. This song is sure to get added into your workout mix. How can you not want to get moving once you hear it? I loved what Ronson did with All You Need is Now so I really can't wait to hear what he does for this album with these lovely lads. Although Duran Duran is on a small tour now, there has been no dates mentioned of a larger scale tour once the album is released so here's to hoping for a stop in Houston.
 

Some other things...I'll be posting about a few things, some of which are non-music related in a sort, in the coming weeks. I will be going to New Orleans in a few weeks and plan to share tidbits of that trip as well as some upcoming movies that I am looking forward to. For the first time in a long time, I don't have any upcoming concerts planned for a while. I am hoping to catch my friend Jonah Smith's new band The Azalea Project next week when they stop here. Beach House is making a stop in Houston in October as is Garbage so there will be plenty to share from those shows and I will be back next week with more "My Music Monday" posts. Hope everyone is having a fabulous summer so far! Stay cool my friends!

My Music Monday: GvsB5 Lineup

I have been having a rough time coming down from that amazing Peter Hook & The Light show from last Friday in Dallas so today is an exciting day because the first lineup for GvsB5 was just announced! Gorilla vs. Bear is one of my favorite music blogs out there that I discovered a few years ago thanks to Blog Radio on Sirius XMU and if you're into new music, you definitely need to pay them a visit. For the last five years, the GVB gang has hosted a night of music at the Granada Theater in Dallas. Past lineups have included The Chromatics, Glass Candy, Grimes, and Panda Bear. I have been anxiously awaiting this year's lineup because I was hoping it would include a certain band from Baltimore and Chris certainly delivered. Not only will Lower Dens be performing, but the lineup will also include Jamie XX from the band The XX, Yumi Zouma, Tei Shi, and Prince Innocence. More bands will be added in the following months. And because GVB has grown over the past few years, this year's fun will not only include The Granada Theater in Dallas on Friday, July 31st, but will also head over to The Mohawk in Austin on Saturday, August 1st. Tickets will go on sale this Friday! And I will see you in Austin GvsB5!

Today's My Music Monday features the bands from today's GvsB5 lineup announcement starting with my current loves, Lower Dens. This band came into my life a few years ago thanks to a suggestion from a friend who knows me and my music tastes pretty well. I dug their sound initially, but it wasn't until their latest release Escape from Evil that I have absolutely fallen in love with this band. I've said it before that bands and songs seem to find me at the right moment, and this album deals a bit with relationships and Jana Hunter's lyrics basically say everything I've wished I'd been able to say to someone about how I felt about them. The first single released, "To Die in L.A.", immediately captured my heart with it's throwback synth sound and melodic guitars. The video was filmed in L.A. and also carries that '80s vibe and even features a cameo from fashion designer Marc Jacobs. Since I have listened to the album about 500 times by now, it is definitely in my top albums for the year. I will do a feature post on Lower Dens later but for now here is the first single from that album.

Another band that came into my life I believe at the recommendation of that same friend was The XX. Since their last album release, one of the members, Jamie XX, has been working on a new solo album entitled In Colour which will be released in the near future via Young Turks records. In anticipation of the album, Jamie has released a few tracks, one of which,"Loud Places", features fellow XX bandmate Romy Madley Croft on vocals. Upon the lineup announcement today, a new video for the track "Gosh" just debuted and features the same house, electronic sound as his other tracks. 

Tei Shi is an artist I'm only recently discovering thanks to GVB. She recently took over the music blog's website for a day which allowed fans to get a deeper sense of her style. Her EP Verde is available in a digital format with physical releases slated for May. I am quickly falling in love with her sound. 

Yumi Zouma is another recent discovery. I haven't been able to catch Chris' show on Thursdays too much lately, but did get a chance to listen some last week and heard this track. Are you able to see a trend here with sounds today? 

Prince Innocence is an artist I hadn't heard of until today. They seem to have been around for a few years and have sort of a chill electronic sound. I chose an older track from them today called "To My Right" because it flowed well with the other tracks from today. 

My Music Monday: Joy Division

As a teenager growing up in the '90s, I was never attracted to the mainstream sounds of grunge or whatever else was playing on the radio at the time. I didn't understand why everyone had to be screaming to get their point across. Instead, I latched onto bands from earlier years. Obviously, The Cure was an important band as were Siouxsie and the Banshees, Depeche Mode and New Order. Internet was just getting started during those days so finding music was not as simple as a quick download and to find the music I wanted to listen to required a little digging and research. I was probably about 14 when I had learned that New Order was first an entirely different band named Joy Division.

Joy Division, a band synonymous with the post-punk movement in music, credited as pioneers in the darker sound that came with it thanks to their driving bass lines, haunting melodies and singer Ian Curtis' deep, baritone voice. The first Joy Division song I remember fully embracing was actually a cover of "Dead Souls" by Nine Inch Nails from The Crow movie soundtrack. From there, Joy Division became one of those bands that were more than a band to me. I was going through a pretty rough time during my teenage years with my parents' divorce, that feeling of not fitting in that most teens feel and just the overwhelming urge to escape and find my own place in the world. Their music was like an old friend that understood everything I was feeling. Joy Division released two albums in their short career. Prior to their U.S. tour, Curtis took his own life and the band eventually continued on as New Order.

  

 

This Friday, a few friends and I will be making a trek to Dallas to see bassist Peter Hook and his band The Light as they perform those Joy Division albums Closer and Unknown Pleasures in their entirety along with a special set of New Order tracks. As I have gotten older, those songs have taken on a whole new meaning to me as I am able to relate more to the words because of my own life experiences. Friday night will definitely be a special night for the young teenage girl that still lingers inside me who would spend hours in her room listening to these songs over and over. Below are a few of my favorite tracks.

 

"Transmission" was released in 1979 as the band's first single and has since been covered by Bauhaus/Peter Murphy, Hot Chip, and the cast of the Ian Curtis biographical film Control.

 



"She's Lost Control" first appeared on Unknown Pleasures before it was released again as a more electronic version in 1980. This song features a bass sound where Peter Hook played higher up on the neck.
 

 

One of the earliest songs recorded by Joy Division, and it is also said to be the last song performed at their May 2, 1980 show.
 

"Love Will Tear Us Apart" is probably the most popular or at least most recognizable Joy Division song. The lyrics not only represent Curtis' deteriorating marriage to his wife Deborah, but also his state of mind at the time. It is still my favorite of all their songs, followed very closely by the next one.
 

I'm not sure words would describe the love I have for this song. It was one of the last songs that Ian Curtis penned. When New Order formed, they re-released the song and that version has gained more popularity over the years. Curtis' words, "Heaven knows it's got to be this time" will probably just always clutch a special place in my  heart. RIP Ian.

34 Years of Faith

On this day in 1981, The Cure released their third studio album, Faith. Considered by many to be the second of their "dark trilogy" albums which also includes 1980's Seventeen Seconds and 1982's Pornography. With Faith, we saw the band cut back to a trio that included Robert Smith, Laurence Tolhurst and Simon Gallup. This album also marks the first time Smith would use a six-string bass creating their signature sound for many years to come. The cassette release was backed by an instrumental piece entitled "Carnage Visors" that was the soundtrack to a short film the band would feature at the beginning of their shows. I remember falling asleep to CV since it was so light and ambient and was perfect for drifting off to dreamland. In 2006, a deluxe remastered edition was released which also featured the non-album single, "Charlotte Sometimes", an alternate version of "Carnage Visors" and many previously unreleased tracks from the recording sessions of the album. While there are many beloved tracks on this album, the title track "Faith" is probably the most popular with it being one of those elusive live show songs that rarely got played for many years. The most popular performance of this song would be the Rome show in 1989 in which Smith dedicated it to those that had lost their lives that day in China's Tiananmen Square. That version is below along with some other live treats from that album. Happy Anniversary to Faith!

Faith album cover designed by Porl Thompson.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Music Monday: Johnny Jewel

I had originally planned for a different band to be featured today to go along with a theme for next week, but then something awesome happened last week. Anyone that knows me knows that I kind of have a slight love for Ryan Gosling. Aside from those boyish good looks, I appreciate his ways of approaching films and he also has pretty great taste in music as there is this lovely photo of him and my rebel brother iAN out there from a BRMC show in L.A. from years ago. Plus he just seems like a really cool guy to hang out with. Ryan has recently made his directorial debut with the film "Lost River", released last Friday in limited theaters, including Austin, as well as On Demand. Knowing my love for Ryan and how I had been anticipating the release of this movie, a friend informed me that Gosling would be in Austin at the Alamo Draft House conducting a Q&A session in addition to the film being shown. Tickets quickly sold out for that showing, but then a later showing was announced that would feature a live introduction to the movie by Ryan himself so of course I immediately purchased my ticket and I am so excited to say that Thursday evening, weather permitting since that seems to be my curse with ATX lately, I will be making a burn & turn trip to see my beloved Ryan Gosling and the film "Lost River", which features a soundtrack composed by another favorite of mine, Johnny Jewel.

I first discovered Johnny Jewel from Gosling's movie "Drive" which was released back in 2011. The native Houstonian is the mastermind behind synth-pop bands that I have come to adore, The Chromatics, Desire, Glass Candy, and Symmetry. He was originally Gosling's first choice to compose the score for that film, but director Nicolas Winding Refn decided to go a different route and instead featured songs by Jewel's bands. It's no secret that Jewel's music helped create the atmosphere for the movie so when Gosling was setting out on his first endeavor as a film director, he contacted his old friend and asked him to score the soundtrack. "Lost River" is a film that is described as a "dark fairy tale about love, family and the fight for survival in the face of danger." The film opens with the song "Tell Me", featuring actress Saoirse Ronan who plays "Rat" in the film. The song serves as sort of a lullaby that Rat sings to herself every night as a way to deal with everything dark going on around her. The story behind recording the song is that Saoirse was in L.A. doing voice overs for the film and Ryan contacted Johnny to get the track laid down. Ronan had never recorded a pop song before and was very nervous to sing so Jewel and Gosling barricaded themselves with Ronan in a kitchen at the sound stage where they were recording and with nothing but an 8-track and a single microphone, the trio turned off all the lights, sat on the floor and the moment was captured. It is a lovely song reminiscent of something that would have been on "Twin Peaks" and I have been listening to it non-stop since it was first released two weeks ago. The soundtrack will be released on Jewel's Italians Do it Better label and will include a limited edition vinyl as part of its release. In spite of the critical bashing this film has received so far, I've also seen many positive reviews and I am looking forward to seeing it on Thursday. And Ryan as well of course. I hope you enjoy this track as much as I have. Happy listening!

 

 

When I was looking for the link for the "Tell Me" video, I stumbled upon a cover The Chromatics did of Joy Division/New Order classic track "Ceremony" which I am posting below as it goes along with the theme for next week. It's different, but nothing drastic from the original. Just a different take and it is growing on me. The description says it features Glass Candy vocalist  Ida No, but I think it's only Chromatics front woman Ruth Radelet that is on the track.  



 

My Music Monday: Ceremony

This week I am launching a new feature called "My Music Monday" where I will feature bands I have recently discovered or old bands that already had a special place in my heart. Ceremony is a band that I recently discovered thanks to Sirius XMU. This California based band, usually known for a more hardcore punk sound, are about to release their fifth studio album entitled The L-Shaped Man via Matador Records next month. They recently released the first two singles for the album, "The Separation" and "The Understanding" as one long video directed by Ross Thomas. Both songs  help tell the story of singer Ross Farrar’s recent breakup and features a more stripped down version of the band. When I first heard "The Separation," I immediately thought that their sound reminded me of fellow post-punk band, Wire, along with a little Joy Division, which makes sense as both bands are listed as influences. I am looking forward to hearing more from this band as they do share a label with a few others I like, Interpol and Perfume Genius to name a couple. L-Shaped Man comes out May 19th so check them out. I hope you enjoy their sound as much as I do. Happy listening!

Rebel Fans Rally to Send Love & Light to Leah

"Pull me up on either side, don't leave me standing alone in the light."

A couple of weeks ago, I was just about packed and ready to head to Los Angeles for Moon Block Party to see Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, The Black Angels and of course, my rebel family, when I got word the night before my departure that drummer Leah Shapiro was sick and the show was most likely going to get cancelled.  I made the tough decision to cancel my trip, thinking that the illness was probably just a bad case of the flu and that all was fine and that I'd just save my trip for another time.  The next day, as I was feeling regretful for canceling and wishing I had boarded that plane, the news finally came from Leah herself regarding her illness. 

 

She shared with us her personal story of what the last few months have been like for her as she started showing symptoms of what would later be diagnosed as Chiari Malformation, a condition that affects the fluid from the brain stem.  Because this was affecting her playing, the band regretfully announced that they would have to cancel this and any other upcoming shows in the near future so that Leah could have surgery and recover to get back to being the beautiful badass behind the kit she is.  Immediately, love and support from fellow fans and friends came pouring in and we were all left wondering how we could help.  My friends still attended the music festival BRMC was supposed to play and I just felt so sad being away from them during this time.  It really hit us all so hard that one of the brightest souls on the planet could be having to fight this battle and I can't imagine the fear and worry that she must also be going through as her livelihood is put on hold while she waits for relief. 

 

Leah has a smile that radiates whenever you see it.  You just want to be near her light.  I was late in joining this family and wasn't around during the Nick Jago days, but it is clear that since she has joined BRMC, she has brought something completely different to the band that has bonded them closer together.  They truly are like brothers and sister.  I had the amazing opportunity to say "hi" and meet Leah after their show in New Orleans last year.  She was rushing to meet friends as they were heading out on the road in just under an hour, but she took the time to let me tell her how much their music meant to me and that I loved watching her play.  She even took a picture with me, which sometimes getting her after a show can be a little difficult.  The fact that she did that when she could have just blown me off cemented why these three are so special in my heart.  I've grown up around music all my life, but it wasn't until I first saw Leah play that I was drawn towards her thriving beat of the drums.  Even when I listen to their albums, I just listen in awe at how fierce yet delicate she really is.  Her fierceness and drive will be what carries her through this along with all of the love and support from the rebel family across the world.

 

Leah and I after the Civic Theater show in New Orleans last year. 

 

And family is what we indeed are.  In less than a week after a Go Fund Me account, entitled Pass the Helmet for Leah, was set up by my good friend and brother iAN Ottaway, we are already halfway to our goal of $33,300.00 which will go towards her surgery taking place at the end of November along with her subsequent recovery.  The band has also released a special edition "I Want to Beleah" t-shirt which will also go towards this very special cause.  I believe the first day those shirts were on sale, they had already sold out of almost every size, another testament to how special this band is to its fans.  We still have a ways to go, but every little bit helps and it just keeps that spirit alive that there are still a lot of really good people out there.  I can't wait to be back with my rebel family watching Leah, Robert and Peter take the stage that first time after her recovery.  Until then, her light will continue to shine brightly as she blazes through this journey with a world of love by her side. 

 

 

Here's to You My Little Love: Paying Tribute to Michael Been

For two nights in April of last year, the stars aligned and magic was made as the members of The Call and Robert Levon Been of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club came together to pay tribute to Robert's father and The Call frontman, Michael Been, who had passed away back in 2010.  I remember being with my parents that night here in Texas and telling my father, who was fortunate to see The Call back in 1986 on their 'Reconciled' tour, that these shows were happening and how cool it would have been to be able to be there and experience it live.  Being a thousand miles and two time zones away, I had no idea the magnitude of those nights, but lucky for me I would be able to still be a part of bringing one of those nights to life for everyone to enjoy.  And little did I know that in just over a week another Been would be forever changing my life when Robert and his band came to Houston for that fateful night.

It was a night about three years in the making ever since Robert reconnected with his extended musical family, those guys in his dad's band that he grew up with, Tom Ferrier, Scott Musick and Jim Goodwin.  You see, The Call never disbanded due to some high amount of drama or falling out.  Michael was just simply ready to hang up his bass guitar, but the remaining members always had that fire burning in their hearts to play together again.  When Michael passed away in August 2010, the seed was planted, but to make it grow would take a couple more years.  Then, in the midst of Robert preparing to embark on his own tour with BRMC upon their latest album release, he was still able to give The Call fans something they had been hoping would happen for many years, a reunion.  This wouldn't just be any reunion, however, as Robert would take the helm as frontman for the evening, singing his father's lyrics and even playing that very popular bass that his father played for so many years.  The very same bass that was stolen years before, but thankfully some vigilant Call fan spotted it, saved it and returned it to its rightful owner.  Robert is no stranger to his father's music.  Black Rebel Motorcycle Club do a very remarkable cover of "Let the Day Begin" and Robert's version of "You Run" never ceases to bring a tear to my eye, but on these two nights he would have to deliver in a way that would not disappoint those long time Call fans.  

Robert Levon Been with original members of The Call.

Not too long after the shows, The Call and BRMC announced that they were launching a Pledge Campaign in an effort to bring the Troubador show from April 19th to those that couldn't be there and allow those that were there a chance to relive it for years to come.  So, I quickly pledged to receive my T-Shirt, DVD and digital download.  Months went by, the goal was met and then we started receiving our gifts.  First the shirt, then the download of the album, but there was no word of the DVD.  We then started receiving messages from The Call that it was a work in progress because they wanted it to be perfect.  And then, after months and months of waiting, we received our DVD of that beautiful and magical night.  I was so excited to finally receive this gem in the mail because this was going to possibly be the only way I'd ever get to see The Call perform live in my lifetime.  

Once I received my DVD, I let it sit for a couple of weeks, because if you've read any of my other pieces, you know it has to be the "right" moment for me to experience music.  I knew that this performance could be a little emotional for me, so I waited until I had that perfect bottle of wine to accompany me and then I just pushed play.  I have to admit, I wasn't sure what to expect.  I had seen the teasers that were sent to those that pledged and I had seen videos from those nights on YouTube, but there can sort of be this idea that when a band that hasn't played together in years gets together, a band that has "aged," you might cringe at them getting up there and maybe taking a chance of embarrassing themselves.  That was not the case at all with these guys.  It was almost as if time stood still and picked up where they left off.  And Robert.  Well, Michael had a voice that probably no one could ever match, but Robert blew me away the way he brought his own touch to his father's music yet keeping it original at the same time.  These guys played together so tightly and sounded so perfect for only being able to rehearse for a short amount of time.  Robert looked like he was at home on stage with those guys just like he does with his own bandmates.  Robert even admits that the songs seemed easier when listening to them on the record, but he played them and sang his heart out as if he had written them himself.  I think my favorite moment was when they did "I Don't Wanna." It was so emotional and I truly felt like at that moment Michael was sitting up there watching this show with the biggest smile on his face.  There are some great surprises and bonus features as well, but you have to get your own copy to see.  I shed a few tears, but it was all in good love for two bands that I adore.

To say my life has changed ever since BRMC stepped into my heart would be an understatement, but The Call also played a huge part in my life growing up and I am thankful I was able to be a part of this Pledge Campaign to make this happen.  There are still plenty of copies left, they're even signed by the band members, so go and get yours and bring home this special piece of music history for you to experience for yourself.   And maybe if we're lucky and Robert's crazy enough, they'll embark on a mini tour for all of us to experience live.  Thank you to all that were involved.  You made this girl very happy.  Until next time, sweet friends.   

A Little Texas Heart + Soul Heads to the Rebel West

It's been months since my last hit and the withdrawals have been brutal. There's nothing like that almost out of body experience that takes you out of your head and into a happier place. That rush from the energy around you when nothing else matters but that moment. It's the dope in my black tar veins that keeps me feeling alive. I try to quit but this addiction will hold me for the rest of my life for it is in that moment when I finally feel at home. And in just a few weeks, heaven will surround me once again. 

I am of course talking about a concert, but not just any concert.  In just a few short weeks, I will be heading west to Los Angeles to see my third Black Rebel Motorcycle Club show.  A show that I honestly did not think would happen this soon.  Partly because of logistics of getting there and partly because after their European tour earlier this year, Rob told a good friend of mine that they were done for the year and taking a much needed and much deserved break.  Luckily for us, that break did not last very long as summer dates started trickling in and the dream was lit alive once again.  

 

Peter Hayes and brother iAN after the last L.A. show in October.


When I caught up with BRMC in New Orleans last October, I was fortunate to also finally get to meet and spend a lot of time with the famous iAN Ottaway from "Ask iAN" on the band's website.  It was like meeting someone you had known your entire life, which is pretty much how it goes in this family, and we shared a lot of great things that night; stories, Cheez-its, a bed.  Hey, keep it clean here, I was helping out a friend.  Anyways, I had a good heart to heart with iAN about something and three words that he told me that night have stuck with me ever since, almost becoming my new mantra or motto.  "Make it Happen." That was what he told me and I took it straight to heart.  So a few days later when he posted this picture of himself and Peter after the last show in Los Angeles, I said right then and there that I will be at the next L.A. show no matter what.  While I had *hoped* that my chance would come soon, I hesitated to get my hopes up too high because I knew they were going to want a break soon, yet something kept telling me I would be seeing them sooner than I thought.  Slowly but surely, dates started trickling in for summer festivals and one off shows in Spain and Italy.  They announced they were opening for Pearl Jam in the UK and for the Arctic Monkeys in Los Angeles.  I almost pulled the trigger on that show, but that same voice from earlier told me to wait since seeing them for their own show is the way to go.  Then, that magical day in May happened and BRMC announced they would be doing a show in August before their Arctic Monkeys date.  I, of course, freaked out like a little girl and immediately started making plans to get out there.  And quickly it all fell into place.  Like magic.    

  

This trip is going to mean a lot to me.  Not only will I get to see a band that I adore who has brought so much good into my life since falling in love with them, but I get to see my brother iAN again and finally meet so many members of my rebel family.  Of course, not everyone will be able to be there, but that just keeps the dream alive that one day we will all be at that mega show.  Until then, I hope California is ready for this Texas girl because I'm ready for you, all ready for you!  

Dirty Glitter: Changing Lives One Track at a Time

My good friend and partner in crime, Brody Ramone, DJ extraordinaire to her internationally syndicated indie radio show Dirty Glitter, is doing something that is pretty awesome! She has recently partnered with Liquid Spins to help change the world through the power of music- one track at a time.

Log into Brody's official music store and for every download, LiquidSpins will split 50% of the profits to help a non profit organization. From March-May the proceeds will benefit Focus - Family Outreach Community United Services in Toledo Ohio.

The next time you want the latest hit song, or a classic from days gone bye - Log on to her store and together we can all make a difference in someone's life!

Here are some benefits when you purchase music from Brody's store :

1. LiquidSpins is splitting the profit 50/50 on ALL music sales with Focus of Toledo.

2. All music purchased from her store is DRM FREE. This means you can install your music on ALL of your personal devices!

3. Music downloaded on Liquid Spins may be played using any audio application including iTunes.

4. With 50% of the profit going to FOCUS, the organization will be able to provide more help and services to the community's homeless families and individuals.

Brody will select a different non-profit group within the U.S. every three months! Such an easy way to get some great music and do a little good for your soul. 

Dirty Glitter + Loudest Sound Join Forces

When I first discovered and fell in love with that certain band last year, I never dreamed of the amount of inspiring friends I would gain as a result.  One of those amazing people that fell into my world was a rockin' lady named Brody Ramone.  Brody is like my sister from another mister and she has been a great sense of support when it comes to my writing and just an all-around fantastic friend to have my back.  

Brody also has pretty awesome taste in music.  I mean, she does love Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, but it does not stop there.  For the last three years, Brody has been the host and producer of her own indie radio show called Dirty Glitter.  Every week, Brody plays the latest and greatest in indie music and she recently went global and is now syndicated in England on Hoxton FM with the possibility of other syndications waiting in the wings.  In addition to her radio show, Ramone has formed collaborations with YAY! LA Magazine and High Voltage Magazine furthering her presence in the indie music world.

So, it is with great honor, excitement, joy and gratitude that I get to announce that I have now teamed up with Brody to keep this machine going and see just how far we can go.  Loudest Sound and Dirty Glitter will now be working together to continue bringing the world the best music has to offer.  When I first met Brody, I knew that I needed to figure out a way to work with her and absorb that knowledge she has stored up in that brain of hers and felt this was a great way for me to push myself and get out there and take this little blog of  mine to the next level.  I will be assisting Brody with interviews, reviews and other stories so keep your eyes peeled for those to start rolling in.  I am so thankful to have this wonderful opportunity.  This is the beginning of a beautiful relationship and I cannot wait to see where things go from here.  Watch out world!

Born Tonight: An Evening With Plowboy

It was not a typical winter’s night in Dallas last Friday.  The air was slightly warmer than the usual Texas version of frigid temperatures.   When the wind blew, it was as if it was filled with an excited electric current that pulsed to your heart.  Poor David’s Pub was brimming with a collective anticipation as a large crowd began to form waiting for the band to take the stage.   That band was the very impressive Plowboy.

Young Dallas band Plowboy has had a pretty formidable year.  On the heels of their debut album release, Headlong and Roaming, they scored the chance of a lifetime opening up for their heroes Black Rebel Motorcycle Club who was on tour in support of their latest album.  Plowboy struck gold again when BRMC invited them back out to play that magical night in New Orleans.  With all of the support they garnered from those very special shows, tonight was to be all about them.  No frills, no fuss, just pure rock and roll. 

If Led Zeppelin, The Doors and BRMC had a love child, its sound would be Plowboy.  And when Jonah and company take the stage, some may be surprised to see that these rockers are barely old enough to have their driver’s license let alone know who those classic bands are, but do not let that fool you.  Nobody ever told these guys they were too young to rock.  The sound these four young souls create is enough to blow the roof off the joint while commanding an audience to their feet and keeping them captivated for their entire set.  It is pretty evident from the first few chords of opening song, “Reaching,” that there is a huge amount of pure, raw talent developing that rivals that of many bands twice their age.  Frontman Jonah Smith belts out each lyric with his powerful voice as he fiercely plucks each string on his guitar, as if each one had wronged him in some way.  Then there's lead guitarist, Evan O'Brien, who wickedly makes his guitar sing with every lick and note while rhythm section Isaac and Colin maintain that driving force, never missing a heart stopping beat.  “Wits End” gets the audience fired up and from there the band plows through their catalog of tracks including "Hard Right," "Cold Fever," and "I Wouldn't Touch Her She Smells Like Suburbia." A grand mixture of songs from their debut album as well as newer gems that will certainly find their home on Plowboy’s next recording endeavor. 

As usual with great live shows, the end comes much too quickly leaving the fans always wanting more.  Plowboy is not done with their magic just yet as they dive into the melodic and shoegaze inspired piece, “Love You from a Distance,” which carries that little spark of influence from their heroes.  It also happens to be my favorite song by the band.  And then, just like that, the set was over and the withdrawals begin to set in. 

This young band certainly continues to leave its mark in the hearts of those that get to experience their soulful light in person. Their originality and pragmatic ways will keep them around for many years to come as they carry on that rock and roll torch, sharing their music with the world. 



Set List:

Reaching
High Strung
Wits End
Hard Right
Get Moved
Ever-Change
Cold Fever
I Wouldn't Touch Her She Smells Like Suburbia
Love You From a Distance

Plowboy are: Jonah Smith (lead vocals/guitar), Evan Obrien (lead guitar), Isaac "Iko" Brodsky (bass/vocals), Colin Scruggs (drums)