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You searched for ‘Mod’, which matched 159 songs.
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contact  performed by brigette bardot
Recommended by daidai [profile]

there is something very modern about this song. it's a timeless tune that was later reworked by godzuki on the album pop romantique. brillant song and my personal bardot favorite.





  king8egg: pizzicato five do a great version of this song(with kraftwerk samples!) on their album "romantique 96".
  daidai: p5's version is great however i think i like godzuki's cover better[just a little] . ^.^
  Erik: And don't forget John Zorn's brilliant a capella version.
Vitamin C  performed by Can
Recommended by Maximum_Bygraves [profile]

Trance inducing teutonic pschonaughts build patterns up with a haunting celtic feel to the instrumentation and even a touch of Brel. Otherworldly and modal in constuction with a stunningly memorable chorus.

from ege bamyasi (spoon)


House of Mirrors  performed by David McAllum
Recommended by Maximum_Bygraves [profile]

Another Axelrod mini masterpiece on display here. Big twangy guitars and a wonderfully modernistic haze of modal horns strings and flutes snake around rock solid bass and drums. Whoooo-heee




surrender  performed by depeche mode
Recommended by javaviolet [profile]




Try try try  performed by The Smashing Pumpkins
Recommended by Mastrangi [profile]

A modern love song! The videclip is gorgeous!




Barnacles  performed by Ugly Casanova
Recommended by Reina [profile]

Lead singer of Modest Mouse...haunting, intense...

"we clung on like barnacles on a boat...even though the ship sinks, you know you can't let go"




So Much Beauty In Dirt  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by Reina [profile]

Great little song. About finding beauty in everyday life. Short and sweet.


roll down the windows and open our mouths taste where we are and play the music loud. Stop
the car, lay on the grass, the planets spin and we watch space pass.Walk a direction, see where we get. I never knew nothin' so there's nothin' to
forget.




neverending math equation  performed by modest mouse
Recommended by eggplantia5 [profile]

one of my favorites from modest mouse. while they certainly have a distinctive sound, i think they manage to make each of their songs rather unique. this is one of the songs that encapsulate just about everything i love about modest mouse. it's just a quirky sound, with terrific lyrics.





  heinmukk: some additional information would be nice. e.g. what kind of music is this? i mean..punk or indie or...? by the way this is the only feature i miss about this lovely site: every song should have a category in which its musicstyle is saved. you know, like in those mp3-tags. then you would have a nice search button for all bossa nova songs for example! :)
The Creation  performed by I got the fever
Recommended by carbootsale [profile]

this is not the mod band, but a soul outfit, pretty much around the same time (1960s). Very nice melody. I'm not good at technical stuff so i will merit this mainly on beefed up adjectives. seriously though, it's just a simple song about love (with equally simple lyrics) but its got the energy good for dancing.





  Arthur: This track was big on the Northern Soul scene. There are two different mixes of the song.
Shake this disease  performed by Depeche Mode
Recommended by inbloom44 [profile]

One of the greatest songs about love.




the Bitterest Pill (I Ever Had to Swallow)  performed by the Jam
Recommended by vicar_inna_22 [profile]

A foray into blues and r&b from a neo-Mod group.


available on CD - Greatest Hits (Polydor)


Tout Va Bien  performed by Pizzicato Five
Recommended by Tantibaci [profile]

A French title by a Japanese group with an Italian name. Nice. Unfortunately I don't understand Japanese, but you don't need to know the language to enjoy Pizzicato Five's post-modern, jet-set sound. Complete with Apollo 11 countdown and nod to the fab four.


available on CD - Big Hits and Jet Lags 1991-1995 (Triad)


un poison voilent, c�est ca l�amour  performed by serge gainsbourg
Recommended by olli [profile]

this is possibly the oldest hip hop track i�ve heard... nice 60�s instrumentation, though the track feels surprisingly modern. cool repetive structure, really nice delivery of the lines, great rythm. amazing song to put on at parties. i love it.


available on CD - comic strip



Soul Meets Body  performed by Death Cab for Cutie
Recommended by mellocello [profile]

Another haunting song, Soul Meets Body is beautiful. "You're the only song I want to hear, a melody softly soaring through my atmosphere . . ." I like where this genre of modern rock is evolving, it's rather unique, definitely going to buy this album and see what else it has on it.

from Plans


Fools in Love  performed by Inara George
Recommended by mellocello [profile]

A beautifully lilting modern waltz. Bittersweet fingerpicked guitar in the background and a wonderful haunting voice, I'm assuming Inara George herself. I'd love to learn more about the artist. A beautiful song of the bitter side of love, "fools in love they think they're heroes, because they get to feel no pain, i say fools are lovers' heroes, i should know, i should know because this fool's in love again." I just love songs like this. I first heard it watching Grey's Anatomy. So I looked on Amazon at the playlist for the soundtrack and found it. Definitely a great song in my book.
She has a website: www.inarageorge.com and unfortunately she just finished a tour.

from Grey's Anatomy Soundtrack


A Different City  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by Desram [profile]




get ready  performed by ella fitzgerald
Recommended by shaka_klaus [profile]

this song rocks! i really love it. ella kicks ass on this smokey robinson cover. find it on the mod jazz or right on! comps. along with some other great stuff...




Addiction  performed by Arthurkill
Recommended by spaceboy585 [profile]

Spawned from the depths of Staten Island, Arthurkill has risen to become one of NYC's best kept little secrets. Personifying modern rock by drawing on influences from U2 and Bruce Springsteen to Rage Against the Machine and Metallica, Arthurkill delivers market-friendly guitar driven songs that carry the torch of rock 'n' roll into the post-alternative era. Arthurkill's latest album "Addiction" is available either online or through Tower records. Arthurkill is currently in the studio recording "Frozen in Time" the eagerly anticipated follow up to 2003's "Addiction".




Ocean Breathes Salty  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by Shes lost control [profile]




The View  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by Shes lost control [profile]




Summer  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by Shes lost control [profile]




Float On  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by Shes lost control [profile]





  snafkin: Good call, this is fantastic! The lyrics, the beat, the guitar...makes me feel like I'm in a movie whenever it comes on my mp3!
Model  performed by Kraftwerk
Recommended by Shes lost control [profile]




Other People’s Lives  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by Sulku [profile]

My favourite Modest Mouse song.




Dramamine  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by HalfSquat [profile]




I Feel You  performed by Depeche Mode
Recommended by sjkln [profile]




Waiting for the Night  performed by Depeche Mode
Recommended by sjkln [profile]




Cowboy Dan  performed by Modest mouse
Recommended by Reid000 [profile]




samba primitivo  performed by nouvelle
Recommended by leontjr [profile]

from free bossa, available on CD (ybmusic)


Paper Thin Walls  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by TinaThor [profile]




A New Error  performed by Moderat
Recommended by DeathandHarmony [profile]




Modern Romance  performed by Lonley Galaxy
Recommended by DeathandHarmony [profile]




Modern Man  performed by Arcade Fire
Recommended by lhirsch92 [profile]




Float On  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by lhirsch92 [profile]




Dashboard  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by lhirsch92 [profile]




Missed the Boat  performed by Modest Mouse
Recommended by lhirsch92 [profile]




Quatro Seculos de Modas e Costumes  performed by Martinho da Vila
Recommended by dinkotom [profile]




Mary Lou  performed by Young Jessie  1955
Recommended by bloozshooz [profile]

A classic she-done-me-wrong song that melds tough call and response R&B with rockin' doo wop -- don't miss this one. I heard it in the 50s but never had the 45 -- looked for it for years before I found the Ace CD of 21 Young Jessie songs from the Modern label in L.A.

"Mary Lou
she took my watch and chain
Mary Lou
she took my diamond ring
She took the keys to my Cadillac car
jumped in my Kitty and then drove afar"

with Maxwell Davis & Orchestra

Great music for the drive-in!

from the single Mary Lou (Modern 961)
available on CD - I'm Gone (Ace (UK))


All Blues  performed by Miles Davis  1959
Recommended by peek [profile]

A slow modal jazz blues from the record that defined modal jazz.
Miles - Trumpet
Julian "Cannonball" Adderly - Alto Sax
John Coltrane - Tenor Sax
Bill Evans - Piano
Paul Chambers - Bass
Jimmy Cobb - Drums
Like allways with Miles all musicians are outstanding. The modal form - in short very few chords and more based on notes in scales - whas new and fresh so the musicians had to be very creative and innovative. And They Succeded in making some of the best music ever created.

from Kind of Blue (Colombia CL 1355)
available on CD - CK 64935 (Colombia/Legacy)


Lonely is as lonely does  performed by The Fleetwoods  1964
Recommended by delicado [profile]

The Fleetwoods were an excellent vocal group from the late 50s and early 60s who are best known for 'Come Softly to Me' and 'Mr. Blue'. Both of these are 'classic' oldies tracks, evocative of the late 50s.

'Lonely is as lonely does' came late in their career, and actually sounds much more modern than its 1964 recording date would suggest. This is really a prototype of the 'soft pop' style that would become popular later in the 1960s. The composer, Chip Taylor, went on to write 'Wild Thing' and 'Angel of the Morning'.

The track opens with a nice picked guitar introduction. As in many of my favorite Fleetwoods tracks, Gary takes the lead vocal, with Gretchen and Barbara singing backing vocals. Gary has a very sincere voice. At the beginning the song sounds very routine, but there are some clever chord changes and some cool lyrics. My favorite line is 'As your tears fall, remember this: you're just a kiss away from happiness'.

from the single Lonely is as lonely does (Dolton)
available on CD - Come Softly to me - The Very Best of The Fleetwoods (EMI)



tears of a clown  performed by mark holmes  1965
Recommended by jmadferit [profile]

there is nothing like hearing mark holmes count down into this explosive cover. it's tops. you should check it out. in fact, check out all of his compilations.

from Mark holmes compilation 12, available on CD


Off and Running  performed by Lesley Gore  1965
Recommended by tinks [profile]

Here's a really cool one. This is Lesley Gore doing a cover of the Mindbenders' stomping mod classic "Off and Running", which originally appeared on the "To Sir, With Love" soundtrack. This version completely outpaces the original, in my opinion.

from the single Off and Running (Mercury)
available on CD - Sunshine, Lollipops & Rainbows: The Best of Lesley Gore (Rhino)



I’ve Been Wrong Before  performed by Cilla Black  1965
Recommended by Mister C [profile]

This 1965 cover of a then new songwriter Randy Newman was a moderate hit for Cilla in the UK reaching No.17. It is superbly sung and arranged, indeed Randy Newman has said on numerous occasions that Cilla's version of this is his favourite version of all his songs. Dusty also recorded this in 1965, taking it slightly slower than Cilla, but an excellent version nonetheless.


available on CD - The Abbey Road Sessions 1963-1973 (EMI)



  Flippet: I adore this recording. I don't understand why it wasn't an even bigger hit for Cilla at the time but I can totally understand why composer Randy Newman loves it. Cilla in her prime - unstoppable!!
La Bamba  performed by Edmundo Ros and Catarina valente  1966
Recommended by n-jeff [profile]

Starts with a piano tinkling up and down the scale, and then the whole Latin Orchestra starts, ultimately Edmundo's raspy voice bellows out of the speakers sounding for all the world like Shaggy's drunken grandfather. Kind of Rhumba, very very danceable, surprisingly modern sounding with a terrific breakdown to the piano in the middle. Beware Edmundo ros has done another version of La Bamba which is terrible.

from Nothing But Aces (Decca PFS 41457)



Modesty (The Modesty Blaise Theme)  performed by Cal Tjader & Eddie Palmieri  1966
Recommended by tinks [profile]

Excellent gentle mambo arrangement, courtesy of Claus Ogerman, of this spy theme featuring Tjader's vibes and George Castro's flute in nice counterpoint with Palmeiro's piano and some very lively percussion.

from El Sonido Nuevo: The New Soul Sound, available on CD



Richmond Bridge  performed by I Cantori Moderni di Alessandroni  1966
Recommended by andyjl [profile]

Soaring choral evocation of a cold bright day on a busy river. From Piero Piccioni�s soundtrack to a Swinging London exploitation film in which an Italian eccentric encounters bikers, fox hunters and a haunted castle.


available on CD - Fuma Di Londra


Coffee Cold  performed by Galt MacDermot  1966
Recommended by brendan [profile]

I first heard this song sampled on 'The Truth' by Handsome Boy Modelling school, essentially the bones of the instrumental coffee cold, with new lyrics from Roisin Murphy (much better than Fergus MacRoy's on a alternate version of the original).

The song itself is piano based, and has amazing drumming. I am a musical goon and cannot explain it much more than that, but the song has a really nice dusty feel to it. The fact that this was sampled in a modern hiphop record and the drums remained unenhaced says a lot.

This is a great song and well worth tracking down for any fans of funk, jazz or hip hop.

from Shapes Of Rhythm (Kilmarnock Records)
available on CD - Shapes Of Rhythm/Woman Is Sweeter (Kilmarnock Records)



  konsu: I believe it's Bernard Purdie playing the drums. Possibly THE most sampled drummer in hip-hop...
(She’s A) Breakaway  performed by The Bad Boys  1966
Recommended by SkipHoneydip [profile]

1(B)
BEST OF THE BAD BOYS
(Style STLP 8061)
1966 R4

from BEST OF THE BAD BOYS (Style (ITALY) STLP 8061)
available on CD - NOT (NOT)


Acapulco Gold  performed by Paul Horn Quintet  1966
Recommended by konsu [profile]

This track makes you wish you had some of the title. A crazy mix of marimba, sax, and sitar grooving in a rock-jazz mode. Probably his best work from the period, apart from his great jazz-mass from the previous year with Lalo Schifrin. This album is full of now sound madness, with Oliver Nelson leading most of the set in good form, but the two PH directs himself, this one and "Guv-Gubi" make the record worth seeking out.

from Monday,Monday (RCA LSP 3613)



Surfs Up  performed by The Beach Boys  1966
Recommended by Ganesha [profile]

Possibly the most beautiful and complex pop song ever written. This is the apex of Brians foray into modular music. Loved by Bernstein and McCartney. This song will take you years to sink in. Perfect. I have heard some amazing versions he has done of this equally as powerful.

from Surfs Up


Fried Bananas  performed by Benny Golson  1967
Recommended by konsu [profile]

Freakishly cool jet-set jazz from the great Benny Golson. A Gary Mcfarland tune that he wrote for his "In Sound" LP, and I must say his version seemed pretty hard to top,until this. A mindblowing mix of styles from the period are included in this one track:Gary Mcfarland's easy-latin swing(complete with whistles),The elecrtrified sax sound of Eddie Harris, and a swirling vocal ensemble thats almost in a Hugo Montenegro mode! Wild!!

from Tune In, Turn On, available on CD


Birds And Bees  performed by Warm Sounds  1967
Recommended by BlueEyedYe-Ye [profile]

A brilliant psychedelic dance record mixing over-the-top orchestration and brilliant harmonized vocals. Plus the kind of innocent-meets-intense vocal that I find immensely attractive in pop. Pity it's not officially available on CD, but that could change...





  artlongjr: Never heard "Birds and Bees", it sounds interesting. I have a 45 by Warm Sounds that I may do a write-up on, it's called "Night Is A-Comin'/Smeta Murgaty", from 1968 on Deram Records. The reason I mention it is because it is one of the most totally "out-there" psychedelic numbers I've ever come across. Features the wonderful lyric "In my head the Grateful Dead are peering through the bars!" Unfortunately I don't think it's on CD either.
  Sadman: it's amazing! heard it from "A Walk in Alice's Garden" compilation.
Breathalyser  performed by Cocktail Cabinet  1967
Recommended by Lonely Lottie [profile]

Super groovy percussive Hammond work-out on the mod-pop Page One label. (The B-side to Puppet On A String.) I got pretty tired of listening to wimp-out Hammond slop, but this is a dancefloor-filling boomer. Costs an arm and a leg on a 7" - anyone know if it's on a compilation?




Sha La la La Lee  performed by Elmer Hockett  1968
Recommended by Ashley [profile]

It's a cover of the Small Faces classic that's about as far removed from the original as it is possible to be. Instead of replicating the mod-beat pounder, producer Mark Wirtz slows the pace down, blends in all kinds of weird percussion instruments and gooes for broke with a kitchen sink finale. Some Small Faces rate this as bordering on blasphemy, I think it's an easy listening classic

from The Fantastic Story of Mark Wirtz and the Teenage Opera, available on CD


Don�t Leave Me  performed by Hal Hester  1968
Recommended by delicado [profile]

I know very little about Hal - I just picked up this LP for a dollar on a hunch that it might be good. It's pretty great. There are two or three very strong 'mod' tracks, and then this, an example of my favorite kind of easy listening cut. It's very pretty and reasonably slow, with nice strings, good piano and solid percussion. There are some vocals, but their involvement is minimal. If I have a complaint, it's that the piano becomes slightly overbearing. But it's a cool track all the same.

from Hal Hester Does His Thing (RCA)



Casino Royale  performed by 18th Century Corporation  1969
Recommended by delicado [profile]

This is a rather ridiculous but super–catchy take on this theme to the 1967 spoof Bond movie. Performed by German session musicians, it ends up being a rather groovy mix, with viola d’amore, flute, female wordless vocals, harpsichord, and that other staple of the Baroque era, funky drums. It’s short and sweet and really very cool. The late sixties were cool for many reasons, but one of them is that they could accomodate TWO albums called 'Bacharach Baroque' - this one, and the other great Snuff Garrett-produced one by 'The Renaissance'. Both are superb.

from Bacharach Baroque (United Artists)




  leonthedog: I found the entire "Bacharach Baroque" album superb! The "baroque" is not overdone. The arrangements are very pleasing - better than most of the hundreds of instrumental takes on Bacharach that surfaced in the 60's and early 70's. So where can I find more by the ephemeral "18th Century Corporation"?
Dansero  performed by Richard Hayman  1969
Recommended by delicado [profile]

The album that this track is taken from was one of those strange albums that acquired mythical status in my mind. Based on a mixture of rumor and personal imagination (I could never actually find a copy), I convinced myself that this must be the coolest album ever made, a perfect fusion of moog, latin and mod sounds. A few years later I picked up the album very cheaply on ebay. Beautiful and interesting as it is, many of the tracks go slightly over the line for me.

'Dansero' is the only track on the LP that captures the blend that I was looking for. It's nice and short at under 3 minutes, and features a delightfully kooky introduction that sounds like the Jean-Jacques Perrey moog flourishes that the group Stereolab sampled on their 'Transient Random Noise Bursts...' album. The drums and moog then join up for a nice pop instrumental, catchy and bouncy. Different moog effects are piled on, but always quite effectively, making this one of the most enduringly successful moog-pop tracks in my collection.

from Genuine Electric Latin Love Machine (Command)



Les Girls  performed by Dan Terry Orchestra & Chorus  1969
Recommended by konsu [profile]

Man! You really have to get up early in the morning to find tracks like this. LA big band funk, banks of brass, electric bass throbbing away, and the hard hitting Jimmy Gordon on drums! But the best part is the vocals, done it a way that makes it sound like an Odeon recording from late 60's Brazil!... Stunning. The rest of the LP is no slouch either though, and reminds me a lot of Quincy's late 60's work and the Project 3 era Enoch Light stuff.

Highly recommended to lounge DJ's and fans of mod rarities.


from Lonely Place (Happy Tiger MT 1005)



driver  performed by the damnation of adam blessing  1969
Recommended by shaka_klaus [profile]

one of my fave dj's, michael wink, played this at the 1st sinful swedish mod weekender. i was kind of doped (kids, don't use hard drugs...) up so i really liked it. it's a heavy, "beardy", as my friend ricky rickenbacker would describe it, kind of a tune. late 60's garagerock... i really like it. the cover of the 45 shows the guys bare breasted. mmmm.

from back to the river single (ua 35159)


The Okura  performed by The Tokyo Boys  196?
Recommended by bobbyspacetroup [profile]

One of the best tracks from probably the best album in MGM's "21 Channel Sound" series. Recorded by a Japanese orchestra in Tokyo, the styles range from big-band latin to more exotica-styled pieces. This track belongs to the latter. Each track is dedicated to a building in modern Tokyo giving this album a fun travelogue quality. From the liner notes: THE OKURA. Adjacent to the American Embassy, this hotel is just minutes away from the night club and shopping area. It advertises air-conditioned rooms -- all with bath -- and such extra features as a Japanese garden and Turkish bath. [...]

from Midnight In Tokyo (MGM SE-4126)




  physlics66: Thanks for the advice! I just got this album today and wasn't expecting it to be so great. I'll check The Okura out next.
  physlics66: Sorry for the double post but I just listened to the song and it is EXACTLY the type of thing I've been looking for! Thanks!
  pastinaca: The Tokyo Boys lp is simply a reissue of an earlier Japanese lp 'More Echoes of Japan' by the Tokyo Cuban Boys. the titles have been changed and you can guess why they dropped the 'Cuban' on a Japanese travelogue lp. The sound on the MGM release is much better than on the Japanese King original.
Mr James Bond  performed by jean jacques perrey  196?
Recommended by AndreasNystrom [profile]

Wow, never heard of him until recently.
He plays popmusic on Moog-synthesizers, and was one of the early pioneers.
Another fun thing about him, was that he made songs about different IanFleming bondbooks, before the Bond movies were even made. This is probably of later date still very fun sound.

Its sounds like 60ies popmusic with Commodore64 mixed into it.




The Lily  performed by Shelby Flint  196?
Recommended by konsu [profile]

This song is really nice.... Shelby's voice floats pillowy-soft above a lush, paced,jazz ensemble with vibraharp chiming chords alongside a heartbeat-like rhythym section.Her voice dipping down to touch it like a feather only to be lifted by the wind again... and again... A nice "Ode to a flower" almost in a hobbit rock mode, only without the schtik........

This is one of two that she wrote herself for (as far as I know) her only LP. The rest of the record is good, mind you. But the two songs she wrote are worth the price of the record. The other one is "Moonlight", which is an almost Stu Phillips-like bossa-nova...... Very pretty.

The Adrissi brothers look like they did some arranging, alongside Perry Botkin Jr., who did the two she wrote for the record. He's well known as an arranger and had done work with Harpers Bizarre, among others.

Good if you like A&M pop with folksy touches...

Claudine maybe?

from Cast Your fate to the wind (Valiant VLM-2/5003)
available on CD - S/T (Collectors Choice CCM 273-2 USA)


Our Day Will Come  performed by Eduardo Costa and the Hitmakers  196?
Recommended by sodapop650 [profile]

This Hillard and Garson song first recorded by the Romantics in 1963 gets a smoothe Bossa makeover on Eduardo Costa's LP "Eduardo Costa & Os Hitmakers." It has Hammond organ leads and 60's guitar and a mod sound similar to the many Parlophone/Odeon releases of the same period. Its a sweet melody and the LP has a fantastic cover with Eduardo standing at the Hammond in s shag-rugged recording studio wearing an outfit that would make Austin Powers jealous.

from Eduardo Costa & Os Hitmakers (United Artist LP 70.004)


Pula Yetla  performed by Letta Mbulu  196?
Recommended by konsu [profile]

Great stuff from a young Letta Mbulu. Her first recording, and with the good company of H.B. Barnum & David Axelrod, is a stunner. This is my favorite track from the LP. It's almost in a Mystic Moods kind of mode, with a thunderstorm recording used for effect, it may have something to do with the lyrics, but since she sings in Xhosa, I have no idea. Her voice is strong and smooth, at times she sounds influenced by Nina Simone, but on this one she is more in a traditional mode. The backing is great Axlerod, with his strong soul-jazz-rock crossover, much like he did for Lou Rawls during this period. Highly recommended for fans of heavier african grooves.

from Letta Mbulu Sings (Capitol ST 2874)


Cavaleiro Andante  performed by Abilio Manoel  1970
Recommended by gregcaz [profile]

This song is simply unreal. It starts out in a kind of 4/4 samba groove with a highly prominent cuica and a funky strummed acoustic guitar chord progression before the super-catchy pizzicato-violins riff comes in, and Abilio's mellow voice singing the melody. It's sunshiney and catchy, with a bit of a haunting aftertaste, very Brazilian. I can never hear this song enough times!! Abilio Manoel is a Sao Paulo-based singer-songwriter from the late-60s-70s (still active) who wrote a few moderate hits without attaining even a Marcos Valle level of popularity. Good for Marcos, since Abilio's work would have caused me a few sleepless nights if I were him. And both on the same label, too! Abilio's stuff is hard to find, but very worth the effort.....I've already given Dusty Groove the heads-up about the CD....

from Pena Verde (Odeon)
available on CD - 20 Sucessos (EMI Brazil)




  delicado: sounds great; I look forward to checking it out!
Natural To Be Gone  performed by Anita Kerr Singers  1970
Recommended by konsu [profile]

A real up-beat number for a very cerebral tune! All AK's records are full of wierd moments and odd delights, this is the one from the set that aim's to please! It starts out with the groups signature harmonies in a acapella almost swingle-like mode, and then kicks in to a hybrid pop groove from heaven, with castanets clacking away ... And the lyrics are wild ! :..." What's the difference being different when it's difference now that looks alike, you say i'm changing and i'm not so sure it's wrong..." " It's just that centerline on this highway runs up my banjo neck, and I feel somehow that it's natural to be gone..."

Written by John Hartford. A name i've seen before, but i'm not familiar with his work. I'd like to know more if anyone knows his definitive recordings!

from It's Anita Kerr Country (Dot DLP 25976)




  rio: John Hartford was a regular on The Glen Campbell television showof the late 60s, he wrote "Gentle on my mind" among other pop hits done by other artists.. talented writer and musician..
  artlongjr: Hartford was a favorite of mine as a kid, I used to see him on the Smothers Brothers and Glen Campbell shows, where he was somewhat of a regular. He was a celebrity back then for writing "Gentle on My Mind" which became a 60s standard. I do recall that he was a riverboat captain as well as a musician. He died a few years ago, which I was sorry to hear, but I've seen a number of his CDs that were on the market. I love his 60's stuff, he had a great laconic style.
der hund von baskerville  performed by cindy & bert  1970
Recommended by shaka_klaus [profile]

i heard this song for the first time in spain at the purple weekend. the dj (mike stax) is as rather famous guy in the mod/garage/60's-scene. so i didn't have the guts to mail him about it for a year or so. but eventually i did and he gave me the details and told me that it was his girlfriend ho spun it. the song is a weird version of black sabbath's paranoid. i love this stuff. can be found on some german comps various artists as well as c&b comps. i saw the original cornet single on ebay a couple of months ago for a mere $180.





  eftimihn: This is a hugely bizarre cover version: Cindy & Bert were a somewhat annoying couple in the 60s & 70s doing very light pop tunes (called "Schlager" in Germany). It was recently released on a great compilation series by Bear Family Records called "Pop In Germany", with lots more of german oddities like Dusty Springfields "Son Of A Preacherman" in a hilarious version with ridiculous lyrics sung with bavarian accent...
Exaltacao e Lamento do ultimo rei  performed by José Mauro  1970
Recommended by moondog [profile]

The soundtrack to november. This or any other year. Brazilian Jose Mauro only made one album before the brazilian military or drugs (info anyone ?)pulled him in but me oh my how beautful that record is.
If there could be such a thing as bossanova-blues than Jose Mauros "obnoxius" is the blueprint. Joses songs which comes along like a blend of early milton nascimento with doses of Marcos Valle and Edu Lobo. The album was arranged by gaya and is filled with wonderful string arrangements. One modern reference would be another Jose,namely,the swedish indietroubadour Jose Gonzales. The highlight of the album comes at the end, Excaltacao e lamento..,which sends shivers down my spine everytime i hear it.

from Obnoxius, available on CD


Vou Morar No Teu Sorriso  performed by Trio Ternura  1971
Recommended by gregcaz [profile]

Just one of many soul-pop-sunshine-rock stunners on Trio Ternura's 1971 LP (the title translates as "Gonna Live Inside Your Smile"). Brazil at this time was an endless source of top-notch coed sunshine-pop vocal groups, including these guys, Conjunto Sambacana, Quarteto Forma, Vox Populi, Coral Som Livre, Brasilia Modern Six, Antonio Adolfo & Brazuca and others. Heads up, 5th Dimension fans....

from Trio Ternura, available on CD



  scrubbles: This really is a fine track. What I love is the uninhibited exuberance of the singers. They're wild in a way that you could never picture in, say, the Fifth Dimension. Okay, they sound like they're about to go crazy!
Melody  performed by Serge Gainsbourg  1971
Recommended by lilly747 [profile]

Stunning melancholy and wonderously modern opener to Gainsboroug's concept album about jailbait love, road accidents & brightly coloured rolls-royces - a masterpiece...

from L'Histoire de Melody Nelson (Mercury)


Maggie May  performed by Simtec & Wylie  1972
Recommended by tinks [profile]

Okay, I know what you're thinking. Rod Stewart?? But hold your horses, buckeroos! This is one incredible funky take on Rod's old show-stopper. Simtec & Wylie were a duo from Chicago who were modeled after such testifyin' '60s soul acts as Sam & Dave, Williams & Watson, Bob & Earl, Mel & Tim and the like. In the early 70s, they signed up with Gene Chandler's (of "Duke of Earl" fame) vanity label, Mister Chand. There, somebody convinced them that recording a cover of "Maggie May" would be a great idea. It was. First of all, they got rid of that exasperatingly unfunky mandolin intro from the original and replaced it with an electric guitar with heavy feedback. They also sped the tempo up considerably, transforming the whole thing from something rather cloying into a defiant statement...these boys aren't content to remember their time with Maggie, they're back to show her what they've learned in the meantime.

from the single Maggie May (Mister Chand)


Life Is Tough, Eh Providence?  performed by Ennio Morricone  1972
Recommended by bobbyspacetroup [profile]

From the Italian western of the same name. I haven't seen the film, but it seems to be a comedy starring Thomas Milian and in the mode of the popular Trinity films. This track is kind of a light-hearted square dance with typically brilliant instrumenation by Morricone -- bells, banjo, organ, chorus, acoustic guitar, drums and violins. This makes a nice companion to the "Wanted Dead Or Alive" track I recommended earlier. Lots of fun.


available on CD - Spaghetti Westerns, Volume Three (DRG)



Mandom Mod Och Morske M�n  performed by Merit Hemmingson  1972
Recommended by delicado [profile]

An instrumental with a fascinating fusion of styles, this track starts out quietly and then explodes delightfully. Hemmingson plays what sounds like a church organ (alongside various other keyboard instruments), but mixes it in with wah-wah guitar, funky beats and percussion, strings, and a dirty, blaxploitation soundtrack-style flute, to produce a compelling sound. Sabu Martinez plays the congas.

I can't offer a great deal of background information here, since I picked this up on a third-hand recommendation, but there are a few great tracks on the album

from Trollskog, available on CD




  delicado: Just to note that this still rocks it for me 12 years on!
space age lullaby  performed by jackie lee  1972
Recommended by unathanthium [profile]

ICI records present a promotional tune for Savlon Babycare.One for astronauts who are missing their newborns.Jackie Lee whispers to a sleeping infant as
an Hawaiian guitar gently guides sleeping child to distant imaginary galaxies,presumably peopled by grass-skirted aliens.More space commodity than Space Oddity,but all the more charming for that.




Soul Love  performed by David Bowie  1972
Recommended by geezer [profile]

Only someone with the Eclectic curiosity of Bowie could conjure up a "rock smaba" it sways like the Girl from from Ipanema but bristles with a mod-ish cool and English edginess.

from Ziggy Stardust, available on CD


Devil, Devil, Go Away  performed by Little Marcy  1973
Recommended by jeanette [profile]

Ever felt there was a hole in your life that only a religious ventriloquist's dummy could fill? Then look no further. One of pop's bona-fide eccentrics, Marcy Tigner, voices Little Marcy in a thoroughly winsome way. The song, nay the whole album, encourages all young children to renounce the devil. However, if the devil were to see the scarily-bad drawing of Little Marcy on the cover, he would correctly deduce that no child is likely to listen to the ravings of a freaky end-of-the-pier doll voiced by an even stranger adult woman.

"Marcy wants you all to know how happy she is singing songs about Jesus" relate the sleevenotes. And, gee Marcy, we sure are glad to hear them!

Please don't think I recommended this song simply to mock it. I genuinely think it's a priceless piece of recorded gold and am more than pleased this site, and the world, is big enough to accommodate special talents like that of Marcy Tigner.

Out of Waco, Texas.

from Happy Am I (Word K-721)




  olli: aah, little marcy. i find her oddly touching. i adore the effect where the guitar seems to be meowing on "i love little pussy", it makes the song even more appealing than the questionable lyrics. "guitar festival of gospel songs" by little marcy's guitarist, bob summers is the current downloadable album over at basichip.com right now, by the way. snatch it while you can!
This Way Mary  performed by John Barry  1974
Recommended by delicado [profile]

I love John Barry. Actually he doesn't seem like such a great guy personally, but I love a lot of his music. This track was originally composed for the soundtrack of the 1971 film 'Mary, Queen of Scots'. However, the sound is very modern. The track is built around a recurring piano riff (which incidentally was sampled by the group Chapterhouse on their 1991 indie/shoegazing single 'mesmerize'), and the tune is played by a synthesized, echoey harpsichord. It's a delightfully simple but very catchy track which stands up to repeated listening.

from Play it again (Polydor)
available on CD - The very best of (Polydor Europe)



Punti di vista  performed by Alessandro Alessandroni  1974
Recommended by eftimihn [profile]

Alessandroni is probably best known for his characterstic whistling on Ennio Morricone's spaghetti soundtracks. Apart from that he was also one of the few sitar players at the time, guitar player, composer, arranger and the founder of the chorus group "I Cantori Moderni" that was featured on a lot of italian soundtracks of the 60s. In the early 70s he had the opportunity to record a "solo" album, not a score, with a big orchestra without any restrictions (which means it didn't had to fit the mood of a film). The result was "Prisma Sonoro" and it's very Morricone-esque stylewise and regarding the texture of the music with lush strings, horns, wordless vocals,harpsicords etc. Unfortunately it's scarcely available on vinyl, but the track "Punti di vista" was issued as "A spanish village" as a bonus track on the Hexacord release "Di Tresette Ce N'E' Uno Tutti Gli Altri Son Nessuno & Other Western Themes".

from Prisma Sonoro (Sermi)
available on CD - Di Tresette Ce N'E' Uno Tutti Gli Altri Son Nessuno & Other Western Themes (Hexacord)




  eftimihn: This track was also issued under yet another name, "Skyliner", on a Hexacord Alessandroni compilation called "Wizard Of Sound".
Never Turn Your Back On Mother Earth  performed by Sparks  1974
Recommended by geezer [profile]

A grandiose harpsichord entrance gives way to almost choirboy melody regerding our lack of concern over this planet of ours , add to this a vaudeville waltz time middle eight sung through a megaphone and we are firmly in the land of strange though not just for the sake of it . Weirdly wonderful and a Top 10 hit as well

from Propoganda, available on CD


Rei do Carnaval  performed by Ivan Lins  1974
Recommended by Festy [profile]

Ivan Lins is a prolific song-writer, with his songs being covered by many artists from Brazil and beyond. Chances are you would've heard one of his songs before as they've been covered by names such as Sarah Vaughan, George Benson and Mark Murphy to name a few. This track is the opener from his debut 1974 album 'Modo Livre'. The CD reissue doesn't list the musicians on the album but it sounds like Sivuca singing parts in this - if not, I'm sure he was an influence. I like the way this song shifts from a feeling of happiness to a moment of 'concern' (not sure how to describe it, but that's how I hear it) in a single chord change only to return to its originally feeling. At the end there are some swells on the strings that just do something to my insides. Amazing how something so simple and fleeting can have such an impact.

from Modo Livre, available on CD



Europe Endless  performed by Kraftwerk  1977
Recommended by phil [profile]

This song is absolutely full of class and confidence - over 8 minutes long, and over a minute at the start is without drums or bass, just to get you into the groove. Then, they don't pull out the best tunes straight away - instead, they build up to them gradually with variations on the theme before building into a bigger and bigger climax. The tunes are as simple as you expect from Kraftwerk - the confidence to just hold a single note for 8 beats without changing is just fantastic - but the cumulative effect is brilliant.

The song is both hypnotic and euphoric and I can't recommend it too highly. When I looked at the iTunes stats as to what songs I had listened to the most, it turned out I had listened to this a heroic four times as much as any other song.

This song has clearly been hugely influential on groups like depeche mode and new order, and yet it somehow sounds quite separate from the things it has influenced. For example, just can't get enough by Depeche Mode is clearly influenced by this, but Europe Endless is much less poppy and commercial.

This whole album is fantastic - there is a kind of sister song to this one later on the album called Franz Schubert.

from Trans-Europe Express, available on CD


Power in the Darkness  performed by Tom Robinson Band  1977
Recommended by geezer [profile]

The middle class ,friendly face of new wave,mostly known for the student sing a long 2 4 6 8 Motorway ,this track however is the sound of late seventies London a cowbell driven social comment which evolves into a beligerent news cast berating man,s basic lack of freedom before returning for arousing chorus.
An underplayed but constant hammond organ gives the track a modern hymn like feel,a little idealistic but a great musical document of the sound of the U.K for a few months in 1978

from Power in the Darkness (E M I)
available on CD - Power inthe Darkness (E M I)


Laissez Faire  performed by Gichy Dan  1979
Recommended by PappaWheelie [profile]

An August Darnell penned song that rivals much of the prestigious 'Dr. Buzzard' catalog. Smooth, tropical, moderate-tempo late 70's Cosmopolitan-Disco tune with wordly lyrics...and Lordes Cotto on vocals!

from Gichy Dan's Beachwood #9 (RCA)



Rock Lobster  performed by The B-52’s  1979
Recommended by dsalmones [profile]

The B-52's were one of several late-'70s bands for which there was no real category. With their modified surf guitar sound, their thrift-shop fashion sense, and their jokey demeanor, they certainly weren't in the rock & roll mainstream, but they exhibited none of punk's sneering rebelliousness or musical aggression, either � the only anarchy that seemed to interest the B-52's was of the sartorial variety. "Rock Lobster" was the first B-52's song to catch popular attention, and it's easy to see why. The minimalist guitar lick is like a beach-bum's rendition of the James Bond theme, the one-note organ ostinato complements it perfectly, and Fred Scheider's campy sprechgesang jumps out at you immediately. Yet despite the song's self-consciously weird texture and silly lyrics about earlobes falling off and communal towel coordination, there's a thread of darkness weaving through it. Make no mistake � this is not a song with hidden meaning lurking below the surface. But its surface is a little more complicated than it seems to be at first. For one thing, it's almost seven minutes long, and it does start to drag toward the end. Right when it does, you notice the mood getting darker � Schneider delivers lines about "having fun" and "baking in the sun" in a hoarse croak, and the guitar starts sounding repetitive in a slightly creepy way. Suddenly you realize that the whole song has been in a minor key, and as Schneider shouts and the guitar barks out its angular riff over and over, you start to wonder if maybe there's some kind of commentary going on here. But then Kate Pierson's angelic voice comes in with a surprisingly pretty falling harmony part that can only be described as a descant, which repeats several times, gradually paring itself down to a single phrase, and abruptly the song is over. The whole song ends up being a goofy party confection with a slightly crunchy center � a pretty satisfying overall flavor combination.
(AMG)

from The B-52's, available on CD


Fridays Angels   performed by Generation x  1979
Recommended by geezer [profile]

A punk band that made the progress limited to just a few like the Jam and Killing Joke.This is guitar shaped power pop with a healthy slice of mod swagger and a fantastic chorus .A kind of Bowie esque tribute to wasted cool and what should have been a sure fire top tenner .This came from a buried gem of an album produced by Mott the Hooples Ian Hunter and listening now with hindsight that makes perfect sense ,the group and producer managing to crytalise glams optimism and punks negativity.

from Valley of the Dolls (Chrysalis)
available on CD - Valley of the Dols


Hawaiian War Chant  performed by Torrent & Alexander  197?
Recommended by tinks [profile]

The 50s exotica standard performed "au moderne" on just two ARP synths and two Hammond organs, recorded live. And while it pales in comparison to the seminal Leroy Holmes version, it's the perfect background music to your next hip Laurence Welk luau.

from Akaka Falls: Explore Hawaii With Organs and Synthesizers ("R" Own)


Alleys of your Mind  performed by Cybotron  1981
Recommended by geezer [profile]

A Detroit take on Kraftwerk,Depeche Mode and European Disco,sparse remote synthetic drums and bass lines,and squelching fat melody lines that you can still hear in todays pop and R and b (Justin Timberlake,Timbaland ,Lady Ga Ga ),lends heavily from Trans European Express but is also looser and a tad more joyous .

from Clear
available on CD - Clear or Best of


The Last one to Know   performed by The Maisonettes  1982
Recommended by geezer [profile]

An obscure b-side of an obscure one hit wonder from 1983! but thats where you find the treasure ,by digging.A band from the tail end of the mod revival of 79 ,a sixties pastiche played on synthesisers but an overwhelming Motown influence played and written in good faith with a lush melody that would have suited the lonely spy from any movie from 1967 onwards .An eighties version of sixties soul heard 25 years later when pop almost lives on its reference points makes this sound like the first of its kind .The other side, Heartache Avenue ,is also a little nugget and worth a listen too.These boys were also City Boy of 5 7 0 5 fame from 1978.

from Heartache Avenue The best of (Readt Steady Go)
available on CD - Heartache Avenue The best of the Maisonettes



  delicado: i have this 7" but I don't remember this. I know the fleetwoods' version if it's the same track. I once played in a covers band with the drummer from the Maisonettes!
  geezer: dig it out and give it a spin its not the Fleetwoods versionbut it is good in a kind of nostalgic way from a time when i didnt have many records so the b side always got aplay by the way some brilliant recomendations Thanks
New York New York  performed by Nina Hagen  1983
Recommended by Yammer [profile]

The DIY ethos of punk served to liberate performers from the obligation to have a great deal of technical ability. The unfortunate corollary was that any display of already-acquired virtuousity instantly marked one as part of the Uncool Wankerage, forcing nascent guitar gods like Andy Summers to play as though suddenly arthritic. Possibly the first artist to successfully bridge Old World training and New World raucousness was Nina Hagen. "New York New York" is the East German-trained singer's signature tune. Over a clipped, dry Morodor techno-dystopia background, the verses present Hagen recounting her then-current regimen of glamourous excess in a harsh, metallic raven's shriek. Then, as though descending from the heavens at the end of a Wagnerian opera, comes the chorus -- a meltingly warm (yet uncomfortable) wave of minor chords, then a soaring, yearning, superbly modulated mezzo-soprano...which, after a jolt of realization, is understood to also belong to Nina Hagen. And so on.

from Fearless (CBS)


Crime of Passion  performed by Mike Oldfield  1983
Recommended by Mike [profile]

For those who admit (to themselves, if not others) to admiring the song "Moonlight Shadow" - here is a similar but perhaps slightly better song which is much less well-known. This one has a male vocalist and, like "Moonlight Shadow", features a good guitar solo from Oldfield. Not an album track, nor one which appears on most of Oldfield compilations.

Yet another track modelled on "Moonlight Shadow" appears on Oldfield's album "Tubular Bells 3" of 1999. This one is called "Man in the Rain" and again sounds very, very similar, as though time had stood still for 16 years. Never let it be said that Oldfield is short of ideas!


available on CD - The Complete Mike Oldfield



Big Saturday  performed by The Jazz Butcher  1985
Recommended by Yammer [profile]

Pat Fish of Northhampton, England, is not a rock star for reasons which might include his naturally reticent and embarassed nature, excessive amounts of Oxford education, and the vagueries of the marketplace, but would not include his songwriting talent, which is massive, if perhaps a wee bit limited in scope (no weird chords, all songs about heartbreak, drunkenness, or cannibalistic fantasies about the Prime Minister). "Big Saturday" is a rousing near-rock number in Pat's heartbreak mode. His singing is liquid, soulful (but not shouty), tender, and helpless in the face of love...a love that MUST remain unrequited for the good of other friendships and sundry considerations of duty and fidelity. At least, I think that is what is going on in this simple, yet devastating tune. For more info, see http://www.jazzbutcher.com/htdb/albums/sex.html

from Sex and Travel (Glass)


Love and Pride   performed by KING  1985
Recommended by geezer [profile]

A huge hit in the U.K in 1985 and the debut single from a band with global potential still retaing elements of the quick fire genres that happened in those times edgy punk sentiments ,white boy funk and even the two tone /mod revival appeal ,all things to all people ,all the ingredients to make the perfect contemporary pop song,.Its rousing anthemic chorus should have been the springboard to stadium size success which somehow slipped away within a year or two,perhaps its catch all ambitions recalled the adage that you cant please all the people all the time .This one piece of brilliance still remains as a monument to all the should have beens and great white hopes.

from Best of
available on CD - Best of Love and Pride


Back Door  performed by Clan of Xymox  1986
Recommended by john_l [profile]

This is surely one of the most powerful, windswept songs ever, relying on the synths (and the lyrics) to create a strong aura of desolation. The verses have minimal backing but it all comes pouring in when the choruses arrive. Not too far off "Black Celebration" era Depeche Mode, which is by far my favourite LP by that band ...

from Medusa, available on CD




  kohl: !! great song.
Gone...Like the Swallows  performed by And Also The Trees  1986
Recommended by dsalmones [profile]

The exquisite standout of the Virus Meadow album and easily And Also the Trees's best song from its early years, "Gone�Like the Swallows" steers away from the sometimes frenetic vocal intensity found elsewhere on the record it comes from for a more reflective but still passionate approach. Simon Jones delivers his lyric with all the deep-voiced intensity of a student of Wordsworth and Shelley reciting on the hillside to nature (which in some respects is pretty much the point of the song). But Jones isn't explicitly anti-modern � consider the mention of the aeroplane in the sky at various points � while the music is equally ancient and up-to-date in feel. Digital delay on the guitars turns them into rolling, darkly chiming flows and waves of sound, dramatically crashing behind the steady rhythm section and Jones' increasingly intense words. Bass and drums alone wrap everything up on a brief, spare note.
(AMG)

from Virus Meadow, available on CD


Tell Tale Heart  performed by Gavin Friday & The Man Seezer  1989
Recommended by dsalmones [profile]

The former Virgin Prunes member, Gavin Friday, recorded his first solo album in 1989, "Each Man Kills The Thing He Loves". After leaving the Prunes in 1986, he abandoned the music business to paint for a year and a half, returning to the fray after teaming up with pianist Maurice Roycroft (whom Friday renamed the Man Seezer). This debut album, "Each Man Kills the Thing He Loves", found him making unexpected moves into a sort of modern-day cabaret style, albeit with all the Bowie-isms of his vocal delivery intact. And this song, "Tell Tale Heart", is near to country sounds and also could come right from Nick Cave "Your Funeral My Trial".

from Each Man Kills The Thing He Loves, available on CD


whiskey bar  performed by babysnakes  198?
Recommended by shaka_klaus [profile]

vital organ skaish tune from swedsih mod band babysnakes. the forceman rules!




Hot Little Hopes  performed by The Band of Holy Joy  1990
Recommended by LateBirdsInMay [profile]

Ha! Good luck finding this one. Hot little hopes is a storm in a teacup about going out on a night with high expectations by a band who never got the sucess they deserved. The music is sublime; a string and brass waltz that builds to a delirious gallop, but it's the lyrics and their delivery that make it special, and confirm BHJ as a lost treasure. Johnny Brown is a songwriter whose lyrics are great writing in their own right; much of his work reads like documentary, the man has a spectacular talent for transcribing the ordinary while maintaining strict disciplines of structure and story to catch your heart in your throat. Here as elsewhere the story almost doesn't deserve to be told- it's ordinary people with ordinary hopes and fears, but the music and the telling turn it into a modern fairytale.

from Positively Spooked (Rough Trade)




  LateBirdsInMay: Keeping it in the family by responding to my own posting here. Aside from wanting to comment on just what a fantastic piece of journalism the above is - it's worth mentioning that BHJ have reformed, and a new album comes out next week - 'love never fails'. Aces.
  delicado: Good news. Do you reckon they've gone electro?
Enjoy The Silence  performed by Depeche Mode  1990
Recommended by eftimihn [profile]

To me, Depeche Mode was primarily a great singles band, with the exception of "Some great reward" (1984) and "Violator" (1990), which were consistently great albums. "Enjoy The Silence" shows Depeche Mode at the top of their game: Gore's songwriting talent, Gahan's vocal performance and Wilder's impeccable arrangement. The newly remixed "Enjoy The Silence 04" clearly shows why the original just can't be improved in any way.

from Violator (Mute)
available on CD - The Singles 86>98 (Mute)




  kohl: absolutely. basically perfect.
Enjoy the Silence  performed by Depeche Mode  1990
Recommended by acidburn [profile]

from Violator


Personal Jesus  performed by Depeche Mode  1990
Recommended by Ketori [profile]

It's slow but upbeat all at the same time! :D Genre is rock.


available on CD - Violator


Earth (Gaia)  performed by The Orb  1991
Recommended by FlyingDutchman1971 [profile]

This song is a great trancy piece of work! It opens with dialogue lifted from the soundtrack of the cult classic 1980 film 'Flash Gordon. "Klytus, I'm booooored.... what plaything can you offer me today?" "... the inhabtants refer to it as the planet... earth..." "how peaceful it looks"... The song then goes to a great drum break and a voice not unlike Alexander Scorby reading cryptic Bible-like phrases, "the mountains shall drop sweet wine and the hills shall melt"

A nice change from watching Wizard of Oz with the Dark Side of the Moon soundtrack, if you know what I mean...

from The Orb's Adventures Beyond The Ultraworld, available on CD


Victim�s Choice  performed by NoMeansNo  1995
Recommended by Tangento [profile]

This band is one of the tightest, most aggressive and imaginative 'hardcore' acts in modern music today.

This track would be a perfect introduction to NMN for the uninitiated listener.
If you like this one, you have about a dozen albums' worth of catching up to do.

Just marvel at the uninhibited pounding and tightly-woven rhythmic tapestries unleashed by bassist/ vocalist Rob Wright on 'Victim's Choice'.

NoMeansNo's style here can possibly be described as
'Devo Meets The Dead Kennedys'
...if one was so inclined to describe things.

This band just constantly and consistently manages to pour it on extra-tight, extra-heavy, and maniacally complex within the usually confining genre of 'Hardcore'.
(call it what you want, I am just attempting to simplify things here)

So don't be shy! This band will please a wide variety of listeners, from Jazz-Heads to Metal-Heads and many of the in-between-heads alike.

Band Website:
NoMeansNo

from The Worldhood of the World (as such), available on CD


Heaven Knows  performed by The Corrs  1995
Recommended by Mike [profile]

According to most educated musical minds, the Corrs are purveyors of irritating, unambitious, tasteless pop tinged with Irish folk. I'd tend to agree strongly, and this track starts off so as to suggest nothing better - twelve seconds of unimaginitive and poorly-recorded drum solo, which moreover reappears with just over 3 minutes on the clock, followed by a truly dreadfully contrived-sounding modulation to the supertonic � la Eurovision. And a horrible brassy backing at one point towards the end.

However, there is definitely something I really like about, even esteem in what occours between those two points. For one thing, there is the way the depressive lyrics are sung to an assertively forward-moving minor key backing. There is something about the rhythm of word-setting that grabs me. I like the chord sequences. The melody's quite good. I like the violin solo in the middle, and the use of the violin for the riff heard during the introduction. Even if it's just a cheap piece of pop, it sounds as though some intelligence and emotion went into its creation. And as i say, for some reason, something about it seems to click with me somehow.

from Forgiven, not forgotten, available on CD


Tell Me When  performed by The Human League  1995
Recommended by dsalmones [profile]

Although a thick line has long been drawn connecting disco to the '90s techno scene, few have bothered to connect the dots between the more modern genre and synth pop. The Human League didn't need to fret about such things, though; they intuitively understood those relationships, having explored virtually all the influences over their career � industrial, funk, R&B, synth pop, new wave, and disco itself. And when the wheel turned again, the band was back on top with a sound that hadn't really changed, but just refined. With a few minor alterations, 1995's "Tell Me When" could have come from 1983, slotting nicely between "Fascination" and "Mirror Man." Of course, the drum programming would need to be changed (there were no jungle rhythms back then!), but the funky bassline can stay, along with the bubbly synths. In fact, the real difference is found in the vignette-esque lyrics and the more complex vocals. And these slight changes make all the difference, turning synth dreams into techno club success. A taster for the group's forthcoming Octopus album, "Tell Me When" hit on both sides of the Atlantic, landing just outside the Top 6 and Top 30 in the U.K. and U.S., respectively.
(AMG)

from Octopus, available on CD


On The Way To Cape May  performed by Big Mess Orchestra  1996
Recommended by m.ace [profile]

The regional goin'-to-the-shore chestnut gets remodeled as a Ziggy-era Mick Ronson production, captured in a wildly live performance. Good, silly, genre-smearing fun.

from A Little Trash Goes A Long Way, available on CD


Hometown Unicorn  performed by Super Furry Animals  1996
Recommended by delicado [profile]

Super Furry Animals are one of a select group modern bands I really like. In a sense, they are too 'rock' for me, but they are so furiously inventive and original that I'm always impressed by their songs - even the ones which I wouldn't necessarily listen to by choice. 'Hometown Unicorn' is a masterful pop anthem with a rich Bowie-like 1970s feel to it. The lyrics are also masterful, and concern the late 70s story of Frankie Fontaine, who claimed to have been abducted by an alien spacecraft. From the first line of the song, I was hooked - 'I was lost, lost on the bypass road...' Many thanks must go to my friend and fellow site user, phil for introducing me to this track and this band.
ps, the group are incredibly good live as well.

from Fuzzy Logic, available on CD



O Verona (Reprise)  performed by unknown  1996
Recommended by cryofthecelt [profile]

After the prologue of Baz Luhrmann's controversial, modern retelling of William Shakespeare's tragedy "Romeo and Juliet," the audience is blasted away by a hoard of harmonious voices chanting a loud, haunting song to the beat of an angry drum. This song, in which a narrator begins "Two households, both alike in dignity...", is called "O Verona," the song which Baz Luhrmann himself calls "an almighty orchestral chord." Its sister song, "O Verona (Reprise)" is uninterrupted by the narrator, and the listener is able to appreciate its musical quality in a fuller fashion. Personally, I couldn't decide whether to recommend "O Verona" or "O Verona (Reprise)" to you. They are both extraordinary recordings on what is, I believe, one of the greatest musical scores to a motion picture ever produced.

from William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet Volume 2, available on CD


Bittersweet  performed by Lewis Taylor  1996
Recommended by Latimer [profile]

Lewis Taylor is a major musical talent, and his first album stands as a landmark among modern soul / R&B productions. Imagine Prince on a roll, with the Beach Boys on backing vocals and Jeff Beck adding psychedelic guitar. He does it all. Sweet falsetto vocals, funny lyrics and a worldwide groove. You'll want more.

from Lewis Taylor, available on CD


You’re A Hero  performed by Patric C  1996
Recommended by jeanette [profile]

Digital Hardcore just sounds hopelessly dated now. Whether its the post-September 11th climate of antipathy to all things terrorist / anarchist, or those dusty 10,000bpm sounds, or Alec Empire's gradual metamorphosis into a footsoldier of nu-metal I guess we'll never know.

However, Patric C (the male half of EC8OR) escapes this near-universal damnation with his first album, probably because it was specifically retro in the first instance. The musical accompaniment to an imaginary computer game, The Horrible Plans Of Flex Busterman beeps and bursts at you like all the best simple timewasting game soundtracks did. This song, played toward the end of the album and meant to signify success at the digital challenge, is the finest of all; an inspired melody that is devilish in its simplicity and an absolutely perfect sound to come from a Commodore 64 or Amiga 500 (two of the "instruments" Patric C employed on this album).

It also retains a definite piss-taking attitude, which also stands it in good stead for longevity; the general earnestness of most Digital Hardcore is so difficult to stomach these days, and lightness of touch sets Patric C apart.

from The Horrible Plans Of Flex Busterman, available on CD



Post Modern Sleaze  performed by Sneaker Pimps  1996
Recommended by Gwendolyn [profile]

"She looks ahead/ she paints her toenails red/ She's wet and wild/ a typical 90s child" I listen to this song when I walk to class early in the morning. It makes me feel like such a girl, but a bad-ass girl. This song and "Wasted Early Sunday Morning" make my life complete.

from Becoming X


In the Aeroplane Over the Sea  performed by Neutral Milk Hotel  1997
Recommended by two-headed boy [profile]

I didn't know it then, but when I purchased the album 'In the Aeroplane Over the Sea' my world changed. When I put the album into my CD player, I did it with a naivete of someone who thought they'd 'heard it all.' I did it clumsily, with haste, handled like a Beatles or Beach Boys album, the way I had done for years. When I listened to the album I did it with reckless abandon while driving 38 miles per hour on my lunch break, and later in the drive-through at McDonald�s. These mistakes were inherited, and I refuse blame. They were passed through the genetic make-up of our peers and born out of the music we've been given; I didn't expect this! Well, our music has changed, and it did so without our knowing and our approval. This album proved and disproved an entire treatise of critical analysis on a generation of music that I thought I had known, and it did so with a fucking velvet sledgehammer.

The lyrics: "And one day we will die and our ashes will fly from the aeroplane over the sea, but for now we are young let us lay in the sun and count every beautiful thing we can see." More lyrics: "What a beautiful face I have found in this place that is circling all around the sun, what a beautiful dream that would flash in the screen in a blink of an eye and be gone from me." The melody: A timeless, haunting thing that was metaphysically resurrected from a wiser place. The voice: Wrenched out of the jaws of a holocaust from 50 years ago, we hear a possessed Jeff Mangum invest his soul. The sound: An apocalypse that can reinvent the turntable by it�s simplistic form; with a saw, guitar, drum, bass, horns, and lord knows what else all handled with deceptive elegance of a garage mechanic constructing a supermodel. And, lastly, the spirit: A tragedy and rape of virginity known only to the persecuted and executed; the ghost of Anne Frank materializes long enough to show us her world, and in her hands we are strangely at peace.

This song is a gift very few will experience. It is endless in its reach and should be accepted like a sibling into your collection. It will one day prove itself beyond category, but for now it is a masterful novel from the hands of a mysterious songwriter who should know how sincerely I cherish his songs.

from In the Aeroplane Over the Sea



  karlmort: this album is going to make a huge impact on you if you dare to listen.
  evolutum: All I have to say is that I agree with the above. My wife and I had this song played at our wedding reception. With tears in our eyes we danced. I would like to have it played at my funeral.
  umbrellasfollowrain: Whenever I hear that someone loves this album as much as I do this strange things happens where I want to draw you all into a bearhug where we cry our fears away all through the long night.
  el.oh man.: this song can make you feel so many emotions at once. it truly is a wrok of art. there is almost no way that you wouldnt like it. everytime i hear it, i fall in love with the amazing writing talents of these guys.
  pullmyhair: This is one of my most life-changing albums. It does something to me, almost spiritually. If people have an open mind, they need to hear this.
Hiding  performed by Simon Warner  1997
Recommended by delicado [profile]

Simon Warner sings beautifully orchestrated and heartfelt songs with a mixture of 60s (e.g. Scott Walker) and modern pop (e.g. Julian Cope) sensibilities. Most people ignored his album when it came out in 1997. Apparently he recorded a second that even his record company ignored. I was lucky enough to see the great man a few times live in 1997. He's an incredible performer, with a slightly rough but very tuneful voice. The compositions, all his own, are also first-rate. This is my favorite track from the album, a melancholy pop tune with piano, guitar and bass, and later a full orchestra.

from Waiting Rooms, available on CD




  Eden Marmalade: Yes, Hiding is a superbly melancholy and well crafted song - also one of my favourites, though it depends what mood I'm in. Thankfully, Waiting Rooms has a song for almost any mood (including irritation at slobby flatmates; inappropriate lust; drunken joy et al). I can't actually think of another songwriter as talented as this guy - writing the lyrics and the music and bringing them together so cleverly. Makes ya sick!
  understudy constantine: It strikes me that the music world just isn't ready for someone as eccentric and talented as Simon Warner... who bothers with lyrics these days? Does anyone really appreciate a good witty tale, smattered with drama and an edgy charm? No. Does anyone long for real music, as opposed to a monotonous beat overlaid with a dull mantra? No. But this shouldn't stop the creation of brilliant songs. Simon, you're not the only one swimming against the tide. If you're happy doing it then that's all that matters. Oh, and it looks like you've picked up a few fans along the way - despite the lack of media support!
Teeth Like God’s Shoeshine  performed by Modest Mouse  1997
Recommended by kaptnunderpnts [profile]

give this song one good, patient listen all the way through and it will begin to grow on you and will get better and better. a redeeming song in the end that comes full circle very nicely. it seems a bit discordant at first, but modest mouse does a very good job of keeping their more discordant songs very tight. a great song. in fact, i'm going to put it on now. the rest of this album- lonesome crowded west- has some other great songs as well. which i guess i'll recommend individually later.

from Lonesome Crowded West


Sweet Lips  performed by MONACO  1997
Recommended by beautifulmutant [profile]

The best New Order song New Order never recorded (bt which features Peter Hook).
Excellent lyrics, sing-along chant / chorus...
I would've though I'd've outgrown this song after 7+ years, but I still get emotional for some reason when I hear this song. It struck a nerve I cannot explain. Beautiful song.

from Music For Pleasure (Polydor)



  eftimihn: Yeah, i still remember this really hooked (kinda lame pun, i know) me when it came out. At the time the prospect of New Order ever coming together again was very unlikely, so this was a welcome substitute at least for me. The first single off "Music For Pleasure", "What Do You Want From Me", was equally New Order-esque with Potts' voice sounding strikingly similar to Sumners'.
Our Drive to the Sun / Can a Man Mark it?  performed by Tripping Daisy  1998
Recommended by trivia [profile]

I was really into the Polyphonic Spree record about a year ago and read somewhere that frontman Tim Delaughter was the singer in Tripping Daisy. There were some pretty rabid recommendations on Amazon for the third TD album - "Jesus Hits Like the Atom Bomb," so I ordered a used copy. It took a few spins to get into, but damn it's a keeper. Melodic art pop heaven. If ya care: it's produced by Eric Drew Feldman - who was a member of Captain Beefheart and the Magic Band, played keyboards for Pere Ubu for a while, and also produced some of Frank Black's earlier solo stuff.

Anyways, as its title suggests, "Our Drive to the Sun / Can a Man Mark it?" comes in two parts. "Our Drive ..." is sunshiney modern pop in the vein of the Flaming Lips, with hooks galore (there are like four parts that could qualify as killer choruses). At about the four minute mark, the track morphs into "Can a Man ...", which sounds something like a Gary Numan song remixed by Kevin Shields. Great change ups throughout and just a real nice listen.

from Jesus Hits Like the Atom Bomb, available on CD


Send In The Clouds  performed by Silver Jews  1998
Recommended by snafkin [profile]

What a great song! Nothing flash, just a great modern, yet retro, rock song.




Guitar in Orbit, PT. 37  performed by Deke Dickerson and the Ecco-Fonics  1998
Recommended by Solo [profile]

cool high speed clean guitar instrumental with a 1950s tonalizer sound. I feel like I'm watching Sputnik in orbit while hearing a jet break the sound barrier when I listen to this. Deke and the Ecco-Fonics are noted for a phenomenal period-style production on albums, retro but never wistfully nostalgic songwriting, and exceptional virtuosity at live performances. The rest of this CD is loaded with great vocals and hip tunes.

from Number One Hit Record! (HighTone (HMG) HMG 3005)


Corazon  performed by Titan  1999
Recommended by n-jeff [profile]

Its a delightful track, modern big beat sensibility with a great tune, a groover of the highest quality, sounds great in a car, in a club or at home. Full of hooks, vocal, guitar and rhythmic. One of the things I love about the band as well are the crappy pictures of themselves they use on their covers. Theres a promo 12 with a remix on it that is all Bongo's and Organ that didn't make it to release thats pretty good too.

from Elevator, available on CD



El-Harba Wine  performed by Khaled (feat Amar)  1999
Recommended by n-jeff [profile]

I have this on the original CD (or at least a CD-R of it) and a French remix 12, which has 3 good mixes including a fantastic one by Manta 1000. Both are very good. The song itself is a mix of the traditional and the modern (with Production by aging Gong-ster Steve Hillage), Arabic and Indian. Violins, Bollywood style singing from Amar blending with Khaleds' gruffer style - all with an irrisistable rhythm underpinning it. Another one chock full of great hooks, where I can't understand a word, perhaps I should take up the study of languages.

from Khaled, available on CD




  Difool: Hi.. I just want to say that i love that song!!! El-Harba Wine. And as you say, i dont understand a singel word of what they sing. That only makes it more fun. Do you know of any other songs like this one?
  n-jeff: It seems from one site I've found that "El Harba Wine" means "To run but where". That aside, Khaled (aka Cheb or Young Khaled) has quite a few album's out, this track is from "Kenza", and is also on a comp "The King of Rai".
You could also check out another Algerian artist Cheb Mami - The "Prince of Rai" but the album of that name is from the 80's and a little dated. I'm also quite fond of Egyptian star Hakim, who adds Spanish guitar touches and the accordian. My favourite track is possibly called "Habibi" from the LP "Comosuena". His most recent LP "2004" has either big samples or a guest appearance from James Brown.

The Truth  performed by Roisin of Moloko & J-Live  1999
Recommended by macka [profile]

Jazz Hip-Hop fusion with the smooth voice of that bird from Moloko. You'll find it on the Handsome Boy Modeling School album from Prince Paul & Dan the Automator (Quality)

from Handsome Boy Modeling School




  delicado: Check out 'Coffee Cold' by Galt Macdermot if you haven't already. The sample is straight from that - it doesn't sound as if they did anything to it at all -which is fair enough, since it's brilliant as it is...
  macka: Thanks very much, will do!
Maybe in the next life  performed by Cinnamon  1999
Recommended by delicado [profile]

What a depressing yet beautiful song... I was thinking of recommending this when I first heard it, but today it fits my mood better and I feel compelled to do so. Bertrand Burgalat's production mixes modern beats and bleepy sound with strings, alongside Cinnamon's old-school tuneful indie guitar pop with a female vocalist. God, this song is depressing; did I say that yet? But it's one of those depressing songs that's actually glorious to hear, accompanied as it is by beautiful, rousing music. The vocal is rather tender; as if she's sympathetic about what a fuckup the listener is.

Those uplifting lyrics in full (actually, there's more, but I'll spare you):
"when you were young/you had the sun in your eyes/the grass was greener/the days were sweeter/in the next life/you know where you came from, but there's no sparkle in your eyes/you're gonna die/and there's nothing in between to shout about'.

Why would you want to listen to something like that? I'm not sure, but I have it on repeat play today; check it out!


available on CD - The genius of Bertrand Burgalat (Bungalow)



  bobbyspacetroup: I'm a big fan of this song as well. The album this if from, Vertigo, is worth picking up if you can find it. Louis Philippe arranged the strings on it with Burgalat producing. I hope this isn't all we are going to hear from Cinnamon.
Other Peoples Lives  performed by Modest Mouse  1999
Recommended by belly [profile]

From the 1999 'Building something out of nothing' album. uses interesting rhythm on guitar. another interseting song from this thoughtful alternative band.




The Way that I Found You  performed by Ladytron  2000
Recommended by tempted [profile]

It's no matter what you do but how you do it! This is a darker song in the Ladytron repertoire and electro disco pop at its very best. Very synth bass heavy yet melodic thanks to these people who understand the recipe of making me happy! Ladytron succeed in making their highly synthetic music sound very organic. Just like Kraftwerk have always done. Apart from Kraftwerk this reminds me of... The Human League. But with a modern touch, leaving the trademark 8t's echoes out. Get up on the dancefloor!

from 604, available on CD



Pleasures  performed by Cubismo Grafico  2000
Recommended by bobbyspacetroup [profile]

Cubismo Grafico -- aka Gakuji Matsuda -- has quickly become my favorite J-Pop act, and this here is one of my favorite tracks. My impression of J-Pop has been that it is either too overtly dancy or sickeningly cute for my tastes. (To be fair, my bias is based on a relatively small cross-section of music.) Anyway, this track is neither. This is an extremely well-constructed selection that strikes me as both very modern and very "easy" in a way that sounds good to my ears. On this track, Gakuki Matsuda is credited with guitar, steel pan, rhodes piano, mc-303, turntable, and voice. So, yeah, he seems like a talented guy. The music is structured around a child's narration of an amusement park attraction (found on the fascinating "Sounds For Little Ones" compilation of a few years back). The sample lends a fun, playful atmosphere. Delicado thinks he has spotted two of the musical samples used here (or at least the compositions used), and I'm pretty sure he is right. They're both very well known, and, much to the credit of this song, I'm amazed I didn't spot them myself. I'll give you a hint: one of them is one of Burt Bacharach's biggest hits.


available on CD - Mini (Escalator Records (Japan))



Minitoka  performed by DJ Food  2000
Recommended by bobbyspacetroup [profile]

DJ Food's Kaleidoscope was a mind-blowing record for me when I first heard it, and I'm still very fond of it after countless listens. I guess I liked it for many of the same reasons I initially liked Tipsy's Trip Tease; they both took samples I was familiar with, or at least some of which I was familiar with, and pushed them in totally unexpected directions. DJ Food's samples are perhaps more varied and less dense than Tipsy's but still just as finely and imaginatively put together. It's hard for me to single out favorite tracks on this record, but this one is a great piece of modern Exotica. The primary sample here is "By The Waters of Minnetonka" from Stanley Black's "Exotic Percussion" record on London's Phase 4 label. There are some other nice touches including harp, slide guitar, bird sounds, and even a little Ravel ("Daphnis et Chloe"). Highly recommended.

from Kaleidoscope, available on CD




  delicado: I'm also a fan of the album, and I adore this track. The way the thick synth sound merges with the 40-year old sample is quite brilliant.
Break Fool  performed by Rah Digga  2000
Recommended by jeanette [profile]

The first lady of the Flipmode Squad. Amazing. Her voice is deep and rasping, tough and hard. She doesn't fall into the traps set for so many other female MCs - "looking pretty in the video", to quote another of her songs - or coming across uber-sexed, or singing any bloody ballads.

She rhymes with precision and with more than a dash of humour. Sounds as fresh as it did 4 years ago, and makes me frustrated for that long overdue second album.

from Dirty Harriet, available on CD



Never Ending Math Equation  performed by Modest Mouse  2000
Recommended by kaptnunderpnts [profile]

this is one of those great songs that builds up towards a climax. i'll recommend it with two other songs (and i'll recommend each individually as well). never ending math equation, interstate 8, broke. these are the first three songs on modest mouse's album titled, building nothing out of something. the three fill eachother out nicely.

from building nothing out of something


Interstate 8  performed by Modest Mouse  2000
Recommended by kaptnunderpnts [profile]

i'll recommend this song with two others (and i'll recommend each individually as well). never ending math equation, interstate 8, broke. these are the first three songs on modest mouse's album titled building nothing out of something. the three fill eachother out nicely.

from building nothing out of something


Broke  performed by Modest Mouse  2000
Recommended by kaptnunderpnts [profile]

i'll recommend this song with two others (and i'll recommend each individually as well). never ending math equation, interstate 8, broke. these are the first three songs on modest mouse's album titled building nothing out of something. the three fill eachother out nicely.

from building nothing out of something


This Isn't Maybe  performed by Waldeck  2001
Recommended by secularus [profile]

The driving force of this trip hop/nu jazz oriented song is the Chet Baker sample, "this isn't sometimes, this is always, this isn't maybe this is always," that exquisitedly weaves its way through the various waves and troughs of the rhythm underscoring the track. For those who have never heard Chet Baker sing, think of Chris Montez, who like Chet epitomizes the he/she question - is it a she or he singing? The sultry and relaxed vocals have endeared me to this song. This track was released in late Feb 2001 on 12" but is believed to be on Waldeck's forthcoming lp, The Night Garden, scheduled for release in late May 2001 on Emagine Music in the US.





Descarga  performed by Gerardo Frisina  2001
Recommended by secularus [profile]

Upon first listen to this tune, I was sold! Available so far only on 12", the track starts off in a traditional congas ala samba vibe with dashes of upright bass. Then the simple but colorful piano melody kicks in and your booty is ready to move. Although this is a modern dancefloor stormer you cannot help but hear its nod to a bygone era in Latin music. If it wasn't for the quick tempo I would think this fine example of a dancefloor delight was created in the late 60s, early 70s.


available on CD - Break n Bossa 4 (Schema)



  delicado: Frisina also compiled the excellent 'Up' compilation on Schema. Great early 70s instrumentals with a hard groove - highly recommended!
Jessie  performed by Zoot Woman  2001
Recommended by eftimihn [profile]

Zoot Woman is basically the child of Les Rhythmes Digitales' Jaques Lu Cont aka Stuart Price. They emerged with a sound as if the 90s never happened, even daring to cover "The Model" by Kraftwerk on the album, and they sound so confident with their 80s sound as if sounding like Hall & Oates at times is just nothing to be ashamed of nowadays. "Jessie" is pure melodic 80s pop sounding, without being tongue-in-cheek about it.

from Living In A Magazine, available on CD



"One Dimention"  performed by Simian  2001
Recommended by pleasepleaseme [profile]

Beatles, Beach Boys & Pink Floyd filtered through a modern sense of electronica.
Pure Ear-Candy!!!

from Chemistry is What We Are, available on CD


Free Love  performed by Depeche Mode  2001
Recommended by acidburn [profile]

from Exciter


friends of mine  performed by adam green  2002
Recommended by olli [profile]

uplifting, string-laden, lyrically abstract modern indie-pop. i think adam green`s strenght as a songwriter lies in his ability to combine bizarre random lines of text and catchy, but sophisticated melodies to something that`s bigger than the sum of its parts. that`s why i prefer his latest work to what he did back in the moldy peaches, the more well-produced sound really helps to balance out things. the strings on this song, for instance, is what makes it a slice of near-perfect sunshine pop. i really need to get around to actually buying this album soon..

from friends of mine


Spilled Milk Factory  performed by Ugly Casanova  2002
Recommended by Jackamaku [profile]

Issac Brock of Modest Mouse channels Tom Waits.


available on CD - Sharpen Your Teeth



Apistat Commander  performed by Xiu Xiu  2003
Recommended by pandaexplosion [profile]

For anyone unfamiliar with Xiu Xiu, "Apistat Commander" would be the song I'd recommend starting with when checking out this band. It's easily the most accessible thing they've recorded to date, but with that said, there's really not a whole lot about Xiu Xiu's music that screams "accessible," so approach with caution.

The song starts out innocently enough, with singer Jamie Stewart's barely audible moan and minimal synth backing, before ripping into a "cathartic attack mode" that sounds something like Nine Inch Nails raping the Cure. The song's best moment comes when Stewart screams, "oh, this relief/it's the oddest thing/ohmygod/ohmygod/ohmygod."

from A Promise (5 Rue Christine GER024)


The Life of the Party  performed by April March  2003
Recommended by delicado [profile]

Shock modern recommendation. The entire 'Triggers' album sounds great to me, with Bertrand Burgalat's production very prominent alongside April's vocals.

'The Life of the Party' has lots of interesting electronic and vocal sounds, including some excellent synths, and a cool and rather spooky chord sequence.

Big thanks to robert[o] for turning me on to the album.

from Triggers, available on CD




  olli: i really dig bertrand burgalat. 'specially sssound of music.
Miracles  performed by Soulounge  2003
Recommended by lenny [profile]

Regularly I fall in love with songs that have a harmonic, perfectly tuned voice chorus like "miracles". The Fender Rhodes keyboard and a moderate bass-line completes the relaxed mood.
I immediatly feel this bittersweet mixture of good times memories and melancholy.

from Home



Más Papaya  performed by Sidestepper  2003
Recommended by Betto_Colombia [profile]

Cumbia folk music from Colombia with really cool modern arrangements. An amazing fusion of Carribbean with electronica with a very unique Afro-Colombian style.


available on CD - 3 AM


Music Box  performed by The Cooper Temple Clause  2003
Recommended by BonzoMoon2002 [profile]

One of the most modern, epic, rocking track ever in history.

from Kick Up the Fire and Let the Flames Break Loose (Morning Records, RCA)


You, Assassin  performed by San Serac  2004
Recommended by delicado [profile]

Another shock modern recommendation! San Serac's second album, 'Ice Age', came out earlier in the year, and I had the pleasure of touring with the band. I got to be a big fan of several of their songs, but I think this one is the best. The singer describes the lyrical content as 'paranoid bullshit', but I find it quite compelling.

Musically, this is very percussive electronic music with a very fresh sounding 80s influence. It's atmospheric and relentlessly beaty. More info is available at http://www.frogmanjake.com/iceageinfo.html.

from Ice Age, available on CD



The Model  performed by Rock, Onic & Bob  2004
Recommended by Rob [profile]

This is a cover of 'the model' by Kraftwerk. Using a banjolele, bass guitar and drums they've rehashed it in a polka style. It's classic. Go see their website:
www.rockonicandbob.com
you can download a couple of other tracks there.

from That'll do. (robtheserecords)
available on CD - that'll do (robtheserecords(www.rockonicandbob.com))


On the Nature of Daylight  performed by Max Richter  2004
Recommended by space [profile]

An instrumental arrangement using only strings, this piece starts out slow and builds. Its overall tone is sweet and full of emotion. Very seldom does one encounter a song of pure aesthetic beauty, with no ulterior motives or elements, but this is one of those songs.

Max Richter has been influenced by minimalistic modern composers such as Philip Glass and Steve Reich, but his work has its own distinctive feel. This song, among others by Richter, was featured in the 2006 film Stranger Than Fiction.

from The Blue Notebooks


Float On   performed by Modest Mouse  2004
Recommended by ErinRae24 [profile]

This song is labeled "Indie Rock". It always cheers me up. No matter what happens, we'll make it through.

from Good News For People Who Love Bad News (Epic Records)


Float On  performed by Modest Mouse  2004
Recommended by ErinRae24 [profile]

This song is labeled "Indie Rock". It always cheers me up. No matter what goes wrong, we'll make it through.

from Good News For People Who Love Bad News (Epic Records)


The Modern Divine  performed by Christian Ward  2005
Recommended by fakesensations [profile]

Disko-punk in the vein of the Rapture, Talking Heads and the Clash. Check it out at http://www.artistlaunch.com/artist4.asp?artistid=9403

from Dark Ages, available on CD


Neverending Math Equation  performed by Sun Kil Moon  2005
Recommended by twanza [profile]

Sun Kil Moon issued an album called, Tiny Cities, in 2005. It's composed entirely of Modest Mouse covers rearranged for acoustic guitar. I almost didn't recognize this song when I first heard it, until I paid attention to the lyrics and then BOOM! I have to admit to loving this album more than the original MM recordings.

from Tiny Cities, available on CD


My love  performed by Justin Timberlake  2006
Recommended by Issie [profile]

This song has a good flowing tune which makes it sound new and modern. An excellent song overall.

from Future Sex/love sounds



  Fat_Elvis: It has retro rave meets rnb feel which is quite cool
Let me take your life  performed by Final Boss  2006
Recommended by ref. [profile]

The song is mostly comprised of guitars, though it also features synths that provide timpanies, mallet sounds, and string sounds, as well as an electric bass guitar.

Its a really interesting arrangement and has quite a memorable main melody. The song ends with an interesting modulation (key change) that sustains the main them.

Its a beautiful rock instrumental song with a focus on arrangement, textures, and mood that you might see in a classical piece.

Reminds me of the Stone Roses without the psychedelic rock vibe.

from not released
available on CD - www.finalboss.net/songs


The Key of C  performed by Jim Noir  2006
Recommended by geezer [profile]

The psychedelic sound of modern day Manchester , a nursery rhyme slice of beatlesque fun with the humour of a Happy Monday,reminiscent of the Lightening Seeds ,a great tune with a great summer feel .




Real Pain  performed by Kraak & Smaak  2007
Recommended by iPodChick [profile]

The multi-talented Dutch artists Kraak & Smaak shine in their unprecedented, soul-shaking compilation, �The Remix Sessions� due out May 29th. Named by IDJ as "one of the most incendiary live outfits," Kraak & Smaak take that crackling energy and infuse classic jams with their signature style. Music lovers everywhere will rejoice as hard-to-find tracks, many of which were only released on vinyl, join each other in this boogie-licious showcase.

From banging dance floor "Mimezine � Can't get Enough (Kraak & Smaak Remix)," to funky, midtempo "Jamiroquai � Electric Mistress (Kraak & Smaak Remix)" to eerie, internationally-infused "Skeewiff � Man of Constant Sorrow (Kraak & Smaak Remix)," Kraak & Smaak reveals their astounding vision for the possibilities of electronica. This beat-driven assembly is an invaluable resource for re-tracing the various pathways of this modern musical expression.

from The Remix Sessions (Quango Records)



  aquila49: If this recommendation sounds like an ad, it's because it is one! I found the exact same wording on another site�indie911.com. iPodChick works for the recording industry. Is that acceptable to Musical Taste members? It isn't to me. By the way, I like Kraak and Smaak�but I am not coming here anymore if shills like "iPodChick" are going to be posting "recommendations."
  delicado: Hi aquila49 - thanks for your comment. yeah, I figured this was probably an 'inside' recommendation although I didn't do the follow-up googling! I don't mind say people recommending their own band so long as it's one song and they're pretty straight up about it, but obviously this isn't the same thing. I guess I should set out some guidelines somewhere. If anyone else has any feelings about this feel free to chime in!
  n-jeff: I agree with aquila49 - off with their heads! I hardly buy music papers because too much is regurgitated verbatim from press releases. I must admit when I read the initial recommendation my mind glazed over halfway through the first phrase, so I couldn't actually read it. Send them back to MYSPACE!
  aquila49: I guess "ipodchick" doesn't have anything to say about this�or anything else. Good riddance.
  liveinpeace: I think the music speaks for itself, however it may have come to our awareness. I do not criticize ipodchick or anyone else for not posting more here. You have made people feel so "welcomed" to join in the discussion. Just keep on living in peace, love, and music.
Mark Rae’s Medicine (Kraak & Smaak Remix)  performed by Kraak & Smaak  2007
Recommended by iPodChick [profile]

The multi-talented Dutch artists Kraak & Smaak shine in their unprecedented, soul-shaking compilation, �The Remix Sessions� due out May 29th. Named by IDJ as "one of the most incendiary live outfits," Kraak & Smaak take that crackling energy and infuse classic jams with their signature style. Music lovers everywhere will rejoice as hard-to-find tracks, many of which were only released on vinyl, join each other in this boogie-licious showcase.

From banging dance floor "Mimezine � Can't get Enough (Kraak & Smaak Remix)," to funky, midtempo "Jamiroquai � Electric Mistress (Kraak & Smaak Remix)" to eerie, internationally-infused "Skeewiff � Man of Constant Sorrow (Kraak & Smaak Remix)," Kraak & Smaak reveals their astounding vision for the possibilities of electronica. This beat-driven assembly is an invaluable resource for re-tracing the various pathways of this modern musical expression.

from The Remix Sessions (Quango Records)



  aquila49: Recommendation is by a recording industry shill. You can find the exact some wording at ubl.com and Indie911.com�straight from a press release. Ugghh.
Web Cam Kutie  performed by The Love Dolls  2007
Recommended by jzbass [profile]

guitar rock / pop mid to up tempo cool lyric observation in non judgmental fashion regarding girls who end up in the online modeling biz

from The Love Dolls (Doll House)
available on CD - www.myspace.com/thelovedollsband


Cologne Cerrone Houdini  performed by Goldfrapp  2008
Recommended by komodo [profile]

Gorgeous track off Goldfrapp's latest - a lush slice of 60's tinged sexiness, all breathy vocals, soaring pop strings and hints of Serge Gainsbourgh.

A mere pastiche? More than that I think. The track certainly has strong echoes of times past, but there is also something distinctly modern in the mix too.

There is other good stuff on this album, but it took me a few listens to absorb and appreciate it - which is no bad thing.


available on CD - Seventh Tree (EMI)


summer skin  performed by death cab for cutie  2009
Recommended by flange1515 [profile]

nice modern song




Body Mod  performed by Pictureplane  2011
Recommended by DeathandHarmony [profile]

from THEE PHYSICAL, available on CD


Goodnight  performed by GreyMarket  2012
Recommended by BonzoMoon2002 [profile]

Modern electro rock and roll, still obscure, not for long.

Entire record available for free download here:

http://www.greymarketband.com/p/free.html

from Dark Matter & Love Stories


1000  performed by N.E.R.D  2017
Recommended by Pinkfoxracing [profile]

Just listen the F***ing beat switch ahhhh

from No one Ever Really Dies, available on CD


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