Starting March with another #500Words per day goal... now, its impossible for me to write every single day, so I try to just average it out... and like January, my goal is #20KWords for the month. I missed my 15K goal in February, ending up with only around 10,616. So yeah, I kinda failed. But its a good failure, one that really doesn't mean much to anyone but me, and drives me to not fail again. So there.
And what to write about tonight? While watching "A Few Good Men", which is a nearly flawless movie, I remembered that I was doing a little series last summer, a series I started when I got my new love for blogging... my Favorite 100 Albums of All Time... I only got three parts into it, but hey, there's no time to pick it up like now, huh?
The Introduction
My 100th to 91st favorite albums
My 90th to 81st favorite albums
My 80th to 71st favorite albums
70
"Fairweather Johnson" by Hootie & the Blowfish (1998)... To say I'm a Hootie fan is an understatement... I love Darius Rucker and the guys, and their sound. It would be silly to put all of their albums, including later releases like "Musical Chairs", "Looking for Lucky" and "Scattered, Covered, Smothered" on this list, because while all good, none catch my fancy like the first two. We'll get to the other one later, but for now, "Fairweather Johnson" is a worthy follow up to their first major release... even though it went 2x platinum, its often considered a failure because their first CD was marginally better. You know, it was 16x platinum and is the 16th best selling album of all time. But "Fairweather Johnson" is just splendid... "Old Man & Me(when I get to Heaven)" is the lead off single, but "Silly Little Pop Song" is great, "Sad Caper" is solid, and the uncomfortably titled "Honeyscrew" is fun and my favorite, "Tucker's Town" is awesome.
69
"Speechless" by Steven Curtis Chapman (1999)... Its hard to be a Christ Follower and not respect Steven Curtis Chapman. He's released over 20 studio albums in his time, had nearly 50 #1 hits in Christian radio, and has boo-koodles of awards lining his shelf. It starts off with a bang, with the rollicking "Dive", getting you in the Spirit, then continues to the title track, "Speechless", a song that wonders and awes at God's amazing creation. The challenges continue, with "The Change"... "The Invitation"... "Be Still and Know"... and a great song, perhaps my favorite, that honors those around you who are fellow Christ Followers, "Fingerprints of God". Its worthy to note that there was a 3+ year separation between this, and his previous studio album, "Signs of Life"... after Signs, he took a sabbatical, and "Speechless" was the result of a 3 year prayer. And it was worth it. Title track is my favorite.
68
"Underdog" by Audio Adrenaline (1999)... Sometimes when I was doing research for this list, I stumble across other albums I forgot ("Hysteria" by Def Leppard was the final album added)... and one in particular is "Some Kind of Zombie", the hard rockin' CD from AA that preceded "Underdog". In an interview with bassist Will McGinness, he mentioned the "Bloom", their 3rd album, was one that the studios kinda wanted them to do... the rock out style of "Some Kind of Zombie" was the band taking it to the far extreme... and "Underdog" was exactly how they wanted to sound. And oh, it sounds so great. "A Mighty Good Leader" is great to kick off, with the title track, then "Get Down", the lead-off single from the CD. Its great all the way through, never too heavy, but meaningful enough to be meaningful (yes, I meant to say that)... my favorite, though, is this incredible version of "It Is Well With My Soul", feature accompanying vocals from Jennifer Knapp... so, so good.
67
"Tuesday Night Music Club" by Sheryl Crow (1993)... So, yesterday was the 20th anniversary of the release date of Sheryl's debut. Twenty years? Holy crap. The name is derived from the group of musicians that would meet on Tuesdays to work on this album, and though it was released in 1993, it was the second single, "All I Want To Do" that catapulted Sheryl into the limelight. Even though this came in 1993, it was Spring '94 that I really caught onto Sheryl Crow's awesomeness... sitting in SAGA (the dining hall) with Erin and Kate Gates and Alison and Jared and whatshisname that always wore the plaid hat, jamming to "All I Want to Do" or "Leaving Las Vegas"... fun times. My favorite tracks are probably "Can't Cry Anymore" or the unreleased "The Na-Na Song"
66
"One Day Live" by Passion (2000)... here's what I love about this CD... I was there. For a whole day, 50,000 of my closest Christ Following friends all jammed together in a field on a farm in Tennessee, to hear the sounds of Chris Tomlin and Christy Nockel and Matt Redman and Candi Pearson all sing worship, and to hear the likes of Voddie Bochum and John Piper and Beth Moore and Louie Giglio all speak their thoughts of praise and knowledge of The Sword. It was one of the Top 10 or 15 most memorable, most meaningful days of my entire life. And its funny to run across someone that I know now that was there, when I didn't know them. I love Christy Nockels, the cute part of the duo Watermark, but Candi Pearson's "One Pure and Holy Passion" takes my breath away.
65
"The End of the Innocence" by Don Henley (1989)... There are three songs that this album is built upon--"The Heart of the Matter", "The Last Worthless Evening" and the title song--but all around, its a great set of Don Henley jams. The Eagles drummer rocks out with "I Will Not Go Quietly" (featuring Axl Rose) and mellows out in "A New York Minute", but its those three that I mentioned that make this whole ride worth it.
I remember working overnights at WKMX in Enterprise, Alabama, and I'd be the only person in the entire building from about 11pm to about 5 or 6am. This is before the practice of setting your playlist on computer, then letting it run all night--called Voicetracking--this is back when you had actual DJs in the studio. And when one needed a bathroom run, you could play "The Heart of the Matter", "The Last Worthless Evening" or "The End of the Innocence", and it would give you a good 6 minutes of time for whatever.
And for the record, I was the guy who played the full version of "The Heart of the Matter", not the radio-friendly shortened version. Just so that's clear.
64
"Alanis Unplugged" by Alanis Morissette (1999)... Alanis is a great example of an artist I loved loved loved early, and we just kinda... well, broke up. It happens. It happened with me and Nirvana. Me and Pearl Jam. Me and Big Head Todd & the Monsters. And me and Alanis.
It happens.
But with "Unplugged", our musical love affair returned, however briefly. In this live, acoustic set, she pours over her big hits, "Ironic" and "Head over Feet" and "You Learn" from Jagged Little Pill... she tosses in a few from her 2nd effort, Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie, like "That Would Be Good"... but its the drastic turn in "You Oughta Know" that should get you to this CD. It slows down, yet is still just as powerful. She does a cover of The Police's "King of Pain" which is outstanding (heresy, but I prefer this over the original) and she has an incredible ending song to the set, from the movie "City of Angels", a ditty called "Uninvited". Its my favorite track, though "King of Pain" is right up there.
Still, there are a few unreleased gems on here, like "No Pressure Over Cappuccino", which is fun. The whole album is like having Alanis perform in your living room, and in some ways, with MTV's Unplugged style, that's exactly what it is. I love this record.
63
"You've Got Mail Original Motion Picture Soundtrack" (1998)... Anyone who knows me knows how near and dear to my heart this movie is. My little sister Ashley says, "You only like that movie because you at those places in the movie", and I reply, "Well... yeah." But its such a good, good film... and like "Sleepless in Seattle", the music plays a big part of this. From "Dreams" by The Cranberries to Nilsson's "Remember" (the scene where Kathleen shuts the shop down for good... sniff...) to Roy Orbison's "Dream Baby", its all wonderful. A bit more modern than "Seattle", but only by a few decades.
62
"Emotions" by Mariah Carey (1991)... Oh Mariah. Where are you, my talented diva from the early 90s? So good, so, so good. This is the second album from Ms Carey, and she was just beginning to hit her stride (a stride she would hit in just a few short years)... the album starts right off with the powerful "Emotions", then ramps up the ballads with "And You Don't Remember" and then the powerful, heart wrenching "Can't Let Go", a song I would later put on a college mixtape cassette called "You Lost the One You Love and You Need an Excuse for Suicide" (also featuring Brian McKnight's "One Last Cry" and Gloria Estefan's "Can't Let Go", an emotional, soul ripping 1-2-3 gut punch). The rest of "Emotions" goes on an up and down ride of love and pain and happiness in couplehood.
61
"Greatest Hits" by Martina McBride (2001)... Talk about your country power ballad. Boom. Martina McBride is one of my personal Hall of Famer and Top 20 artists of all time, and this compilation is magnificent. Be it "Where Would You Be" to "Broken Wing", her voice is strong and when it comes to her signature song, "Independence Day", there is none better.
I love practically every song on this album, and its actually hard to really find a favorite... there are a few songs I'm not a huge fan of, like "Love's the Only House" or "Concrete Angel", but everything else makes up for it. Love Martina and just about everything she does.
Coming up next... a little Sixpence... some Goo Goo... and some Eddie Murphy... and later on, how about a little Smooth Love Jams.
(1758 Words in #20KWords for March... 18,242 words to go)
Showing posts with label Christian Music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christian Music. Show all posts
Saturday, March 01, 2014
Friday, January 17, 2014
a playlist for hustla's
My driving record is not very exemplary... actually, its kinda bad. In the last three or four years, I've had no problems, but prior, there have been a few tickets here and there.
Maybe it was this post's content's fault. Today, on The Facebooky Thing, I got a challenge to list my favorite "Hustle Songs"... meaning, what songs pump me up and get me moving?
Well, when I'm writing or Pixie-deep in Magical planning and training, I seldom listen to anything, or might have some random music playing, but its more of a distraction... but when I'm working out, or running, or both (and yes, I'm starting to do this)... or when I'm in The Cabana, getting my de-clutter on in the garage or the back junk bedroom, I do have a list of music that I stinkin' love... fast paced, loud music that makes me drive fast and work hard.
(Disclaimer... I am by no means telling you to buy these songs. I like them, some for the songs themselves, some for the purposes of this entire post... so please do not download a hip hop song and then be offended when Luda tells you he wants to give you a hicky.)
So, here are 21 of my favorite Drive Fast Ger 'Er Done tunes...
"Bombs Over Baghdad" by OutKast... 1... 2.. 1 2 3 yeah... I love OutKast, I think Andre3000 is fantastic, and I love the Big Boi line "Have you evah seen a pimp rocka micrah-fone..." I also love the fact his name is Big Boi... Avril Lavigne tried to use "Boi" in a title (Sk8tr Boi) and it failed miserably. You have to be ubercool to pull off Boi, and few of us can. From the album "Stankonia"
"Heavy" by Collective Soul... I like the split audio at the beginning, so when it comes on, I hear it first in my left ear, then my right, then my left, then my right... Not a great song, but nice and loud and kinda cool. From the album "Seven Year Itch: Greatest Hits"
"La Grange" by ZZ Top... Made famous in many movies, most notably the training scene in "Armageddon", its just cool... great guitar, great tune. Sure, the lyrics are strange, but are fun to imitate anyway. From the 1973 album "Tres Hombres"
"Calling Baton Rouge" by Garth Brooks... From the album "In Pieces", its a remake of the classic Oak Ridge Boys song... and only my favorite country song, ever. I know its a remake, but its loud, and I have to sing it as such... "OOOOOOOPERATOR WON'T YOU GET ME ON THROUGH GOTTA SEND MY LOVE DOWN TO BATON ROUGE HURRY UP WON'T YOU PUT HER ON THE LINE GOTTA TALK TO MY BABY ONE MORE TIME...
WHOA OH OH... SWEET BATON ROUGE...
(in fact, I'm going to listen to it right stinkin' now)
"Miss You Much" by Janet Jackson... from one of my top 20 albums of all time, "Rhythm Nation 1814", this is a funky beat of love, missing someone and awesome. Just as an aside, "Love Will Never Do (without you)" is by far my favorite Janet Jackson song, and I can run to it too... but it wouldn't really qualify for an open list such as this one.
"Slide" by The Goo Goo Dolls... I looked at these lyrics not too long ago... think song might be a little more innuendous that I thought. I don't care, its still one of the most fun songs I've ever heard... From one of my Top 50 albums all time, "Dizzy Up the Girl"
"Crazy On You" by Heart... Oh, that Ann and Nancy Wilson. This, along with "Barricuda" and "Magic Man" make up my Heart 70s Trifecta, and "Crazy on You" is the one that gets the slight nod... so good. From their 1976 debut album, "Dreamboat Annie" (incidentally, this song was actually their first single ever)
"Sin Wagon" by The Dixie Chicks... Yes. Yes. Yes. Absolutely yes. Praise the Lord and pass the ammunition, give me more of that 12oz nutrition.. though, I mean, I don't know what she's talking about. Mattress dancing? Must be bed seizures. Yeah, that's it. Also, the banjo pickin in this absolutely rules. From one of my Top 10 Albums of All time, "Fly"
"Real Love" by Mary J. Blige... Probably not as loud and fast paced as the other songs on this list, but I carry a special affection for it from high school... bought the cassette single, learned every word and would walk the halls of Samson High School singing it. The folk of the not my color would always laugh at me. And then join in. What can I say, I'm diverse. From the 1992 album, "Whats the 411?"
"When I Looked At Him" by Expose. Not a workout song. Not a drive fast song. Just the song that's on my iPod at this second, and I'm quietly singing along. Just worth mentioning. From the 1989 album "What You Don't Know"
"Some Kind of Zombie" by Audio Adrenaline... When then-lead singer's family did missions in Haiti when he was younger, they experienced the voodoo doctors that you often hear about in that area of the world. He said they would make these potions in an attempt to make the dead move, becoming slaves to their masters, zombies. And this song makes that comparison to our Walk... becoming slaves, zombies for Christ, ready to do His will upon command, without even thinking about it. And this song is loud and strong and cool. From the album of the same name.
"Stand Up" by Ludacris... if you choose to download this song, please, please, PAH-LEEZE go for the edited version. Do NOT get the album version. Edited. I beg of you. You know what, forget this one, and let's move on. From the hilariously titled album "Chicken-n-Beer"
"You Belong With Me" by Taylor Swift... Driving to my house in the middle of the night I'm the one who makes you laugh when you know you about to cry I know your favorite songs and you tell me about your dreams I think I know where you belong I think oh its with me...
If you want to know the truth, this video depicts EXACTLY how The Lovely Steph Leann and I got together.
Hey.
Don't judge.
I frickin' love this song, her "Fearless" album and this video.
"Crazy" by Gnarls Barkley... Everyone likes this song. Why wouldn't you? Cee Lo Green at his best, with Danger Mouse (who decides thats a good name? And yet, it works!!)... the album, "St Elsewhere" isn't all that great, but this song is amazing.
"Yeah!" by Usher, feat (Lil' Jon with Ludacris)... This one of those songs (YEA-AH) that will be around forever (OH-KAAAY), due not only to its (WHAT!?) infections (WHAT!?) groove from the very beginning, its (OH-KAAY) got catchy lyrics, even if all you can sing is YEA-AH. Its also good to go into the gym and say, "Watch out my outfit's ridiculous in the gym looking so conspicuous..." From his album "Confessions"
"Two Tickets to Paradise" by Eddie Money... A little softer (but not by much) but a 70s classic and sa staple in my Top 50 Most Played on my iPod... and its easy to learn and sing along to, which is important when you are running and focusing. From the 1977 album "Eddie Money"
"Shakedown" by Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band... There's a more than good chance that most of you will have never even heard of this song. From the Beverly Hills Cop II soundtrack, its one of Bob Seger's last big hits, and its a doozy... its catchy, its fast, its full of electric guitar and 80s synth sound and yes, you will want to drive fast.
"Fergalicious" by Fergie... Hey, we said we weren't going to judge, remember? I mean, its not like I own her dumb CD, right, especially not the enhanced version with videos and extra tracks? (whistles, looks away)
"A World Away" by Avalon... No, that's not a typo. From one of my Top 30 albums of all time, "A Maze of Grace", CCM group Avalon and their song about where we were in Christ, and where we are now... I love love love this song, because it speaks to me. And for whatever reason, I love this song on my iPod when I'm on the move. Like, I'm listening to it right now, and its awesome. And it also helps make up for...
"Right Round" by Flo Rida... Though I've never actually heard anything else from his album "R.O.O.T.S.", (which I just found out stands for "route of overcoming the struggle... I wonder how long they spent on that acronym), I really dig this song.. mostly because he discusses "My Perelli's on hold", which is a pretty big endorsement to the high priced tire company, and then later he talks about his quantity of $100 bills, aka, "Ben-ja-min Frank-ah-lins". That makes me happy. If I get rich, I'm going to go into church, with a stack of $100 and make it rain, singing about my "Ben-ja-min Frank-ah-lins". I had a Ben-ja-min Frank-ah-lin once. I miss it. Where were we?
At what point do I start really considering that one day, Campbell Isaiah will read some of this, possibly take my recommendations and load up Flo Rida on his own iPhonepodtouch 7.0 thing? Hmm... let's not ask such uncomfortable questions right now, okay? Good.
"Basic Instructions" by Burlap to Cashmere... I almost finished this post, and realized I had not mentioned this tune... holy jeebers this song is great. Make sure, though, you get the live version from the EP "Live at the Bitter End". The album version is okay, but the live version is where.its.at... so musically talented, these guys were. Are. Am. Right? Right!
"Everything Zen" by Bush... Perhaps my favorite drive-fast song of all time. Starts out strong, continues and finishes even stronger, with reference to Elvis, sex, violence, sex in your violence (and the fact there is none) and "my (expletive deleted) brother." d$ digs it. From the album "Sixteen Stone"
Quick honorable mentions... I've said this before online, but it's worth repeating--two movie themes that I think are awesome include "Gonna Fly Now (Rocky's theme)" from Rocky, and "The Gael", which is the ending song from "The Last of the Mohicans". Also, "Duel of the Fates" by John Williams, from "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace", but you really want the version with the dialogue. That makes it cool.
So there ya go. There is a whole host of songs I could have put on this list, most notably "Learn to Fly" by The Foo Fighters, which was on this list but came off at the very last minute to make it a nice, even list of 21, and I certainly am not going to mention Big Punisher (ft Fat Joe) and their song "Don't Wanna Be a Playa"
What do you think? What are some of your drive fast, getcha moving songs?
(15,101 words written in #500Word Challenge... 4899 to go in #20KWordsinJanuary)
Maybe it was this post's content's fault. Today, on The Facebooky Thing, I got a challenge to list my favorite "Hustle Songs"... meaning, what songs pump me up and get me moving?
Well, when I'm writing or Pixie-deep in Magical planning and training, I seldom listen to anything, or might have some random music playing, but its more of a distraction... but when I'm working out, or running, or both (and yes, I'm starting to do this)... or when I'm in The Cabana, getting my de-clutter on in the garage or the back junk bedroom, I do have a list of music that I stinkin' love... fast paced, loud music that makes me drive fast and work hard.
(Disclaimer... I am by no means telling you to buy these songs. I like them, some for the songs themselves, some for the purposes of this entire post... so please do not download a hip hop song and then be offended when Luda tells you he wants to give you a hicky.)
So, here are 21 of my favorite Drive Fast Ger 'Er Done tunes...
"Bombs Over Baghdad" by OutKast... 1... 2.. 1 2 3 yeah... I love OutKast, I think Andre3000 is fantastic, and I love the Big Boi line "Have you evah seen a pimp rocka micrah-fone..." I also love the fact his name is Big Boi... Avril Lavigne tried to use "Boi" in a title (Sk8tr Boi) and it failed miserably. You have to be ubercool to pull off Boi, and few of us can. From the album "Stankonia"
"Heavy" by Collective Soul... I like the split audio at the beginning, so when it comes on, I hear it first in my left ear, then my right, then my left, then my right... Not a great song, but nice and loud and kinda cool. From the album "Seven Year Itch: Greatest Hits"
"La Grange" by ZZ Top... Made famous in many movies, most notably the training scene in "Armageddon", its just cool... great guitar, great tune. Sure, the lyrics are strange, but are fun to imitate anyway. From the 1973 album "Tres Hombres"
"Calling Baton Rouge" by Garth Brooks... From the album "In Pieces", its a remake of the classic Oak Ridge Boys song... and only my favorite country song, ever. I know its a remake, but its loud, and I have to sing it as such... "OOOOOOOPERATOR WON'T YOU GET ME ON THROUGH GOTTA SEND MY LOVE DOWN TO BATON ROUGE HURRY UP WON'T YOU PUT HER ON THE LINE GOTTA TALK TO MY BABY ONE MORE TIME...
WHOA OH OH... SWEET BATON ROUGE...
(in fact, I'm going to listen to it right stinkin' now)
"Miss You Much" by Janet Jackson... from one of my top 20 albums of all time, "Rhythm Nation 1814", this is a funky beat of love, missing someone and awesome. Just as an aside, "Love Will Never Do (without you)" is by far my favorite Janet Jackson song, and I can run to it too... but it wouldn't really qualify for an open list such as this one.
"Slide" by The Goo Goo Dolls... I looked at these lyrics not too long ago... think song might be a little more innuendous that I thought. I don't care, its still one of the most fun songs I've ever heard... From one of my Top 50 albums all time, "Dizzy Up the Girl"
"Crazy On You" by Heart... Oh, that Ann and Nancy Wilson. This, along with "Barricuda" and "Magic Man" make up my Heart 70s Trifecta, and "Crazy on You" is the one that gets the slight nod... so good. From their 1976 debut album, "Dreamboat Annie" (incidentally, this song was actually their first single ever)
"Sin Wagon" by The Dixie Chicks... Yes. Yes. Yes. Absolutely yes. Praise the Lord and pass the ammunition, give me more of that 12oz nutrition.. though, I mean, I don't know what she's talking about. Mattress dancing? Must be bed seizures. Yeah, that's it. Also, the banjo pickin in this absolutely rules. From one of my Top 10 Albums of All time, "Fly"
 |
| The cover of the cassette single that kept me hearing--and singing--this song for a decade or more. And I still don't really know all the lyrics, or at least all the right lyrics. I kinda make 'em up. |
"When I Looked At Him" by Expose. Not a workout song. Not a drive fast song. Just the song that's on my iPod at this second, and I'm quietly singing along. Just worth mentioning. From the 1989 album "What You Don't Know"
"Some Kind of Zombie" by Audio Adrenaline... When then-lead singer's family did missions in Haiti when he was younger, they experienced the voodoo doctors that you often hear about in that area of the world. He said they would make these potions in an attempt to make the dead move, becoming slaves to their masters, zombies. And this song makes that comparison to our Walk... becoming slaves, zombies for Christ, ready to do His will upon command, without even thinking about it. And this song is loud and strong and cool. From the album of the same name.
"Stand Up" by Ludacris... if you choose to download this song, please, please, PAH-LEEZE go for the edited version. Do NOT get the album version. Edited. I beg of you. You know what, forget this one, and let's move on. From the hilariously titled album "Chicken-n-Beer"
"You Belong With Me" by Taylor Swift... Driving to my house in the middle of the night I'm the one who makes you laugh when you know you about to cry I know your favorite songs and you tell me about your dreams I think I know where you belong I think oh its with me...
If you want to know the truth, this video depicts EXACTLY how The Lovely Steph Leann and I got together.
Hey.
Don't judge.
I frickin' love this song, her "Fearless" album and this video.
"Crazy" by Gnarls Barkley... Everyone likes this song. Why wouldn't you? Cee Lo Green at his best, with Danger Mouse (who decides thats a good name? And yet, it works!!)... the album, "St Elsewhere" isn't all that great, but this song is amazing.
"Yeah!" by Usher, feat (Lil' Jon with Ludacris)... This one of those songs (YEA-AH) that will be around forever (OH-KAAAY), due not only to its (WHAT!?) infections (WHAT!?) groove from the very beginning, its (OH-KAAY) got catchy lyrics, even if all you can sing is YEA-AH. Its also good to go into the gym and say, "Watch out my outfit's ridiculous in the gym looking so conspicuous..." From his album "Confessions"
"Two Tickets to Paradise" by Eddie Money... A little softer (but not by much) but a 70s classic and sa staple in my Top 50 Most Played on my iPod... and its easy to learn and sing along to, which is important when you are running and focusing. From the 1977 album "Eddie Money"
"Shakedown" by Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band... There's a more than good chance that most of you will have never even heard of this song. From the Beverly Hills Cop II soundtrack, its one of Bob Seger's last big hits, and its a doozy... its catchy, its fast, its full of electric guitar and 80s synth sound and yes, you will want to drive fast.
"Fergalicious" by Fergie... Hey, we said we weren't going to judge, remember? I mean, its not like I own her dumb CD, right, especially not the enhanced version with videos and extra tracks? (whistles, looks away)
"A World Away" by Avalon... No, that's not a typo. From one of my Top 30 albums of all time, "A Maze of Grace", CCM group Avalon and their song about where we were in Christ, and where we are now... I love love love this song, because it speaks to me. And for whatever reason, I love this song on my iPod when I'm on the move. Like, I'm listening to it right now, and its awesome. And it also helps make up for...
"Right Round" by Flo Rida... Though I've never actually heard anything else from his album "R.O.O.T.S.", (which I just found out stands for "route of overcoming the struggle... I wonder how long they spent on that acronym), I really dig this song.. mostly because he discusses "My Perelli's on hold", which is a pretty big endorsement to the high priced tire company, and then later he talks about his quantity of $100 bills, aka, "Ben-ja-min Frank-ah-lins". That makes me happy. If I get rich, I'm going to go into church, with a stack of $100 and make it rain, singing about my "Ben-ja-min Frank-ah-lins". I had a Ben-ja-min Frank-ah-lin once. I miss it. Where were we?
At what point do I start really considering that one day, Campbell Isaiah will read some of this, possibly take my recommendations and load up Flo Rida on his own iPhonepodtouch 7.0 thing? Hmm... let's not ask such uncomfortable questions right now, okay? Good.
"Basic Instructions" by Burlap to Cashmere... I almost finished this post, and realized I had not mentioned this tune... holy jeebers this song is great. Make sure, though, you get the live version from the EP "Live at the Bitter End". The album version is okay, but the live version is where.its.at... so musically talented, these guys were. Are. Am. Right? Right!
"Everything Zen" by Bush... Perhaps my favorite drive-fast song of all time. Starts out strong, continues and finishes even stronger, with reference to Elvis, sex, violence, sex in your violence (and the fact there is none) and "my (expletive deleted) brother." d$ digs it. From the album "Sixteen Stone"
Quick honorable mentions... I've said this before online, but it's worth repeating--two movie themes that I think are awesome include "Gonna Fly Now (Rocky's theme)" from Rocky, and "The Gael", which is the ending song from "The Last of the Mohicans". Also, "Duel of the Fates" by John Williams, from "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace", but you really want the version with the dialogue. That makes it cool.
So there ya go. There is a whole host of songs I could have put on this list, most notably "Learn to Fly" by The Foo Fighters, which was on this list but came off at the very last minute to make it a nice, even list of 21, and I certainly am not going to mention Big Punisher (ft Fat Joe) and their song "Don't Wanna Be a Playa"
What do you think? What are some of your drive fast, getcha moving songs?
(15,101 words written in #500Word Challenge... 4899 to go in #20KWordsinJanuary)
Friday, July 26, 2013
the grace abuser
What can I say... I'm a sinner. Pretty pathetic, if you ask me.
I know the Word, so I can't play ignorant... I just simply turn the other way many times, and the problem is, many times, I'm not sure I care so much. I enjoy what I do, I enjoy doing my own thing many times, and... well, I'm just too lazy. I'm too lazy to sometimes do the right thing, I like the easy way out, whatever makes me feel nice and doesn't make me have to work for anything. Its just easier.
Here's what Romans 7: 15 - 25 has to say, according to The Message... Yes. I'm full of myself—after all, I've spent a long time in sin's prison. What I don't understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I act another, doing things I absolutely despise. So if I can't be trusted to figure out what is best for myself and then do it, it becomes obvious that God's command is necessary.
But I need something more! For if I know the law but still can't keep it, and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help! I realize that I don't have what it takes. I can will it, but I can't do it. I decide to do good, but I don't really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don't result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time.
It happens so regularly that it's predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God's commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.
I've tried everything and nothing helps. I'm at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn't that the real question?
The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different
It sounds like a pity-party, I know, but its really not... its an admittance. An admittance of guilt, an admittance of a need for humility and a need for a Savior... and what better way to express it than the Sinner Anthem, a song by Chris Rice from the Deep Enough to Dream album, called "Clumsy"...
Think I'd have it down by now... I've been practicing for 24 years.
Should have walked a 1000 miles... what am I still doing here?
Reaching out for the same ol' piece of forbidden fruit
I slip and fall and knock my halo loose,
Somebody tell me what’s a stupid sinner like me supposed to do?
Gonna get it right this time, I'll be strong and I'll make You proud
Prayed that prayer a 1000 times, the rooster crows and my tears roll down...
You keep reminding me You made me from the dust
And I can never be, no, never be good enough
But You're not gonna let that come between us...
I get so Clumsy... I get so foolish...
I get so stupid... and I'm feeling so useless
But You're saying You love me
And You still want to hold me
Now You want to be near me
Still making me Holy, still making me Holy...
From where I stand Your holiness is up so high
I can barely reach it..
My only hope is to follow Jesus....
I get so Clumsy... I get so foolish...
I get so stupid... and I'm feeling so useless
But You're saying You love me
And You still want to hold me
Now You want to be near me
Still making me Holy, still making me Holy...
Have you ever sinned, been forgiven, and then turned around a little while later and did the same thing again... and then go through this cycle a dozen times?
Aren't you glad that its grace by faith, and not by works? I get Clumsy, Stupid, Foolish and feel so useless many times... but I am assured in the fact that He made me from the dust, and no matter what--or how good--I do, I will NEVER be good enough...
"...but You're not gonna let that come between us..."
I know the Word, so I can't play ignorant... I just simply turn the other way many times, and the problem is, many times, I'm not sure I care so much. I enjoy what I do, I enjoy doing my own thing many times, and... well, I'm just too lazy. I'm too lazy to sometimes do the right thing, I like the easy way out, whatever makes me feel nice and doesn't make me have to work for anything. Its just easier.
Here's what Romans 7: 15 - 25 has to say, according to The Message... Yes. I'm full of myself—after all, I've spent a long time in sin's prison. What I don't understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I act another, doing things I absolutely despise. So if I can't be trusted to figure out what is best for myself and then do it, it becomes obvious that God's command is necessary.
But I need something more! For if I know the law but still can't keep it, and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help! I realize that I don't have what it takes. I can will it, but I can't do it. I decide to do good, but I don't really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don't result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time.
It happens so regularly that it's predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God's commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.
I've tried everything and nothing helps. I'm at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn't that the real question?
The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different
What I seem to keep forgetting is that Jesus Christ... well, He's got this. He's got it. I am a screw up, but He's got redemption with my name on it. As Out of the Grey once sang, "Grace Abounds and I'm the Chief Abuser".
Think I'd have it down by now... I've been practicing for 24 years.
Should have walked a 1000 miles... what am I still doing here?
Reaching out for the same ol' piece of forbidden fruit
I slip and fall and knock my halo loose,
Somebody tell me what’s a stupid sinner like me supposed to do?
Gonna get it right this time, I'll be strong and I'll make You proud
Prayed that prayer a 1000 times, the rooster crows and my tears roll down...
You keep reminding me You made me from the dust
And I can never be, no, never be good enough
But You're not gonna let that come between us...
I get so Clumsy... I get so foolish...
I get so stupid... and I'm feeling so useless
But You're saying You love me
And You still want to hold me
Now You want to be near me
Still making me Holy, still making me Holy...
From where I stand Your holiness is up so high
I can barely reach it..
My only hope is to follow Jesus....
I get so Clumsy... I get so foolish...
I get so stupid... and I'm feeling so useless
But You're saying You love me
And You still want to hold me
Now You want to be near me
Still making me Holy, still making me Holy...
Have you ever sinned, been forgiven, and then turned around a little while later and did the same thing again... and then go through this cycle a dozen times?
Aren't you glad that its grace by faith, and not by works? I get Clumsy, Stupid, Foolish and feel so useless many times... but I am assured in the fact that He made me from the dust, and no matter what--or how good--I do, I will NEVER be good enough...
"...but You're not gonna let that come between us..."
Thursday, July 25, 2013
my favorite albums... 90 thru 81
Welcome back to the show... here's the next set of my all time favorite albums...
Read:
The Introduction
My 100th to 91st favorite albums of all time
90
"Off the Deep End" by Weird Al Yankovic (1992)... I love, have always loved, and will always love, Weird Al Yankovic. He's just hilarious. And inventive. And funny. And his 7th studio album falls in that love category... he parodies the New Kids on the Block's "The Right Stuff" with an ode to the creamy center of an Oreo, "The White Stuff"... he digs on Milli Vanilli in "The Plumbing Song"... he joins with Cheech Marin in doing some "Rico Suave" as "Taco Grande"... and my favorite of the bunch is the lead single--"Smells Like Nirvana", a great parody of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit". Story goes that Al reached out, somewhat nervously, to Kurt Cobain about doing a Nirvana song. Cobain asked, "Is your parody about food?" Al replied, "Well... uh... no. Its actually about how no one can understand your lyrics..." Cobain loved the idea, the song and the video that accompanied it. As he should. Its brilliant.
89
"Songs from Ally McBeal" by Vonda Shepard (1998)... This will fall into the category of "CDs I listened to continually for a long, long time, but haven't heard in a long, long time..." I used to love me some Ally McBeal, as well as the music... and most of the music from the first few seasons was done by singer-songwriter Vonda Shepard... the CD is mostly covers like "Walk Away Renee" and "Just Ask the Lonely", but my favorite is the Ally McBeal theme song, "Searching My Soul".
Wait... I just found out that Vonda Shepard is the same Vonda Shepard that duets with Dan Hill on the 80s cheesefest "Can't We Try"... how did I not know this? I mean, how many Vonda Shepards making music can there be? Why didn't I make this connection? I'm losing my touch...
88
"Purple" by Stone Temple Pilots (1994)... I have to give props to my high school buddy Greg Avant for turning me on to this band... I'll tell that story later, but "Purple" is their second CD, and its just so, so good. "Interstate Love Song" is the one that got the most play on the radio, but there are other gems here... like "Big Empty", a song that was later featured in "The Crow" soundtrack, and the oddly named, great sounding "Meat Plow". I'm not a huge heavy metal fan, but I loved me some STP. Of course, this was truly the last great album they made... their next CD, "Tiny Music from the Vatican Gift Shop" was good, but just not the same magic as their first one, and this one. Favorite track: Vasoline
Unfortunately, Scott Weiland, the frontman for STP, was buzzed on heroin for much of the early STP years. And he sounded awesome. And when he got clean, STP suffered. I know, its a terrible thing... but I miss Heroin Addicted Scott Weiland. Maybe he just shoot up for recording sessions, remaining closely supervised by doctors, and then immediately go into rehab. That's probably why I'm not a music producer.
87.
"Surfacing" by Sarah McLachlan (1997)... I do love me some Sarah Mac. I procured tickets to see her in concert once, while working at a radio station. We sat next to the Paepckes' (Jon from NBC13 and his wife Jennifer)... and the four of us might have been the only four straight people in the entire arena.
Anyway, "Surfacing" is the fourth studio album from Sarah, and containing some excellent songs like "Building a Mystery" and the grew-on-me-over-the-years "Adia". Loses points, however, for the inclusion of "Angel", a really slow song already that has been forever marred because its the music used by the ASPCA, showing you pictures of one eyed puppies, three legged kittens and retarded horses to guilt you into sending them money. That song is ruined. Favorite track, though? "Sweet Surrender". Looooove me some "Sweet Surrender".
86
"House of Love" by Amy Grant (1994)... The early 90s were really tough on Mrs. Grant. She made a highly successful crossover to pop music with "Heart in Motion", released in 1991 and was on the short list of albums for this Top 100... things weren't going well, though. She separated from singer/songwriter Gary Chapman, and while in that separation, she met country superstar Vince Gill, who appears on this album, in a duet for the title track. Gary and Amy finalized their divorce in 1999, and in 2000, she married Vince, himself previously married to a chick from Sweethearts of the Rodeo.
Personally, I think she fell in love with Vince in the mid to late 90s, still married to Gary... but I also think they knew years before the divorce that the marriage was doomed. Listen to 1997's "Behind the Eyes", the album that came after this--its pretty painful. Her heart was broken. How did this turn into an Amy Grant story?
"House of Love" is fun, light, and peppy, especially with "Lucky One", a somewhat winkwink nudgenudge to the art of Christian lovin'... I dig her version of "Oh How the Years Go By"... I like "Children of the World"... but my favorite has to be the title track, "House of Love"
85
"Caedmon's Call" by Caedmon's Call (1997)... Like many of you, I find new bands because someone says "These guys are awesome, you should check them out." That's how I discovered The Weepies (Thanks Hannah Pruitt!) and The Lemonheads (Thanks Mike Dunn! You stole my girlfriend, but at least I have the Lemonheads to listen to!)... and one summer in 1997, doing summer missions with the Baptist Association in Montgomery, Alabama, this dude named Jason said, "You need to listen to Caedmon's Call. They are awesome." And they were. They are. From the opening "Lead of Love" to the great closer, "Coming Home", and everything in between, its guitar worship Jesus praise, and its great. "This World" is an amazing take on how this is not our home, "I Just Don't Want Coffee" could be a theme song for me, and "Close of Autumn" is one of my Life Songs, or songs that most affected my Christian Walk
84
"Serious Hits... Live" by Phil Collins (1990)... Phil is one of those guys who was pretty awesome in a band--Genesis--and had a pretty awesome solo career, at least early. Then he kinda became a wuss. (See "Adams, Bryan"). Anyway, on this live CD you get some pretty serious hits live, like "Do You Remember" and "Something Happened on the Way to Heaven", which are from the studio album before this "But Seriously...", but you also get some earlier stuff, including "Easy Lover" and "In the Air Tonight". And there is an incredible version of "Separate Lives", and my favorite Phil Collins song "I Wish It Would Rain Down". Did you also know that Phil is the father of Lily Collins, the big sis in "The Blindside"? Yup.
83
"Spellbound" by Paula Abdul (1991)... And we get our first repeat artist of the countdown... I gotta be honest. For a long time, I had "Forever Your Girl" ranked this high, and "Spellbound" was among the discarded nominations... but I took a long look at the track listing, and even pulled up iTunes and took a listen at "Vibeology" (oh so funky) and "The Promise of a New Day" (positive vibes along for the ride) and "Blowing Kisses in the Wind" (soft and melodic) and of course, "Rush Rush", which can only be truly appreciated if you watch the most ridiculous video in the history of mankind. I mean, Keanu Reeves is portraying James Dean. Read that sentence again.
82
"A Maze of Grace" by Avalon (1997)... Yes, in the 90s, trios and quartets in Contemporary Christian Music were almost a dime a dozen. Sometimes it was hard to tell your Sierra from your The Waiting from Silage from PFR to FFH to Big Tent Revival... they all kind of sounded alike, even with different sounds and styles... and somehow, Avalon kinda sounded like that too. But, to me, they stood out with this CD... This, their 2nd album, was magical, as it contained great worship music like "Adonai" and "Dreams I Dream For You"... oh, and this monster hit you couldn't get away from, "Testify To Love". Don't get me wrong, its a great song, but in 1997-98, that song was EVA.REE.WHERE... I mean, all over. And yes, I know all the words. My favorite tunes on this album though, are the awesome strong-in-faith song "World Away" and the love song to God, "Reason Enough"
81
"Sheryl Crow and Friends: Live from Central Park" by Sheryl Crow (1999)... I do love Sheryl Crow. Ever since her first album, "Tuesday Night Music Club", which as you might guess, you'll hear about later, I have enjoyed her music, her writing and her style... that's changed a bit in the last six or seven years, as I kinda feel like she's become a little flaky for my tastes, as you can read here in a post from years ago, but that doesn't change her work in the 90s. This live CD features Eric Clapton, The Dixie Chicks, Chrissy Hynde from The Pretenders, Stevie Nicks and Sarah McLachlan, an incredible line-up, and... well, this CD is just fun. My favorite track is the duet with Stevie Nicks, on a cover of "Gold Dust Woman"
ALMOST MADE THE CUT
My first three CD purchases... 1) The Monkees box set... 2) The Pulp Fiction Soundtrack... and ...
The Hit Songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber (1995)... I don't know who sings these songs, and the liner notes are somewhere around here, I dunno... but I love "Another Suitcase in Another Hall" from Evita, a musical I don't really ever care to see... and I thought this version of "Memories" from CATS was incredible, even though I've seen CATS twice and it sucked both times... and of course, the title song from "The Phantom of the Opera" will rock your world... and "Jesus Christ Superstar"? Holy crap that song is a jam. And I got it all from this CD, on sale for $11.95, at On Cue in Troy, Alabama.
Read:
The Introduction
My 100th to 91st favorite albums of all time
90
89
"Songs from Ally McBeal" by Vonda Shepard (1998)... This will fall into the category of "CDs I listened to continually for a long, long time, but haven't heard in a long, long time..." I used to love me some Ally McBeal, as well as the music... and most of the music from the first few seasons was done by singer-songwriter Vonda Shepard... the CD is mostly covers like "Walk Away Renee" and "Just Ask the Lonely", but my favorite is the Ally McBeal theme song, "Searching My Soul".
Wait... I just found out that Vonda Shepard is the same Vonda Shepard that duets with Dan Hill on the 80s cheesefest "Can't We Try"... how did I not know this? I mean, how many Vonda Shepards making music can there be? Why didn't I make this connection? I'm losing my touch...
88
"Purple" by Stone Temple Pilots (1994)... I have to give props to my high school buddy Greg Avant for turning me on to this band... I'll tell that story later, but "Purple" is their second CD, and its just so, so good. "Interstate Love Song" is the one that got the most play on the radio, but there are other gems here... like "Big Empty", a song that was later featured in "The Crow" soundtrack, and the oddly named, great sounding "Meat Plow". I'm not a huge heavy metal fan, but I loved me some STP. Of course, this was truly the last great album they made... their next CD, "Tiny Music from the Vatican Gift Shop" was good, but just not the same magic as their first one, and this one. Favorite track: Vasoline
Unfortunately, Scott Weiland, the frontman for STP, was buzzed on heroin for much of the early STP years. And he sounded awesome. And when he got clean, STP suffered. I know, its a terrible thing... but I miss Heroin Addicted Scott Weiland. Maybe he just shoot up for recording sessions, remaining closely supervised by doctors, and then immediately go into rehab. That's probably why I'm not a music producer.87.
"Surfacing" by Sarah McLachlan (1997)... I do love me some Sarah Mac. I procured tickets to see her in concert once, while working at a radio station. We sat next to the Paepckes' (Jon from NBC13 and his wife Jennifer)... and the four of us might have been the only four straight people in the entire arena.
Anyway, "Surfacing" is the fourth studio album from Sarah, and containing some excellent songs like "Building a Mystery" and the grew-on-me-over-the-years "Adia". Loses points, however, for the inclusion of "Angel", a really slow song already that has been forever marred because its the music used by the ASPCA, showing you pictures of one eyed puppies, three legged kittens and retarded horses to guilt you into sending them money. That song is ruined. Favorite track, though? "Sweet Surrender". Looooove me some "Sweet Surrender".
86 "House of Love" by Amy Grant (1994)... The early 90s were really tough on Mrs. Grant. She made a highly successful crossover to pop music with "Heart in Motion", released in 1991 and was on the short list of albums for this Top 100... things weren't going well, though. She separated from singer/songwriter Gary Chapman, and while in that separation, she met country superstar Vince Gill, who appears on this album, in a duet for the title track. Gary and Amy finalized their divorce in 1999, and in 2000, she married Vince, himself previously married to a chick from Sweethearts of the Rodeo.
Personally, I think she fell in love with Vince in the mid to late 90s, still married to Gary... but I also think they knew years before the divorce that the marriage was doomed. Listen to 1997's "Behind the Eyes", the album that came after this--its pretty painful. Her heart was broken. How did this turn into an Amy Grant story?
"House of Love" is fun, light, and peppy, especially with "Lucky One", a somewhat winkwink nudgenudge to the art of Christian lovin'... I dig her version of "Oh How the Years Go By"... I like "Children of the World"... but my favorite has to be the title track, "House of Love"
85
"Caedmon's Call" by Caedmon's Call (1997)... Like many of you, I find new bands because someone says "These guys are awesome, you should check them out." That's how I discovered The Weepies (Thanks Hannah Pruitt!) and The Lemonheads (Thanks Mike Dunn! You stole my girlfriend, but at least I have the Lemonheads to listen to!)... and one summer in 1997, doing summer missions with the Baptist Association in Montgomery, Alabama, this dude named Jason said, "You need to listen to Caedmon's Call. They are awesome." And they were. They are. From the opening "Lead of Love" to the great closer, "Coming Home", and everything in between, its guitar worship Jesus praise, and its great. "This World" is an amazing take on how this is not our home, "I Just Don't Want Coffee" could be a theme song for me, and "Close of Autumn" is one of my Life Songs, or songs that most affected my Christian Walk
84
"Serious Hits... Live" by Phil Collins (1990)... Phil is one of those guys who was pretty awesome in a band--Genesis--and had a pretty awesome solo career, at least early. Then he kinda became a wuss. (See "Adams, Bryan"). Anyway, on this live CD you get some pretty serious hits live, like "Do You Remember" and "Something Happened on the Way to Heaven", which are from the studio album before this "But Seriously...", but you also get some earlier stuff, including "Easy Lover" and "In the Air Tonight". And there is an incredible version of "Separate Lives", and my favorite Phil Collins song "I Wish It Would Rain Down". Did you also know that Phil is the father of Lily Collins, the big sis in "The Blindside"? Yup.
 |
| At some point, this exchange actually happens: Paula: Have you ever been in love? Keanu: If I was... I didn't know it... Glorious. Brilliant. Poignant. Ridiculous. All in one. I frickin love the "Rush Rush" video... |
"Spellbound" by Paula Abdul (1991)... And we get our first repeat artist of the countdown... I gotta be honest. For a long time, I had "Forever Your Girl" ranked this high, and "Spellbound" was among the discarded nominations... but I took a long look at the track listing, and even pulled up iTunes and took a listen at "Vibeology" (oh so funky) and "The Promise of a New Day" (positive vibes along for the ride) and "Blowing Kisses in the Wind" (soft and melodic) and of course, "Rush Rush", which can only be truly appreciated if you watch the most ridiculous video in the history of mankind. I mean, Keanu Reeves is portraying James Dean. Read that sentence again.
82
"A Maze of Grace" by Avalon (1997)... Yes, in the 90s, trios and quartets in Contemporary Christian Music were almost a dime a dozen. Sometimes it was hard to tell your Sierra from your The Waiting from Silage from PFR to FFH to Big Tent Revival... they all kind of sounded alike, even with different sounds and styles... and somehow, Avalon kinda sounded like that too. But, to me, they stood out with this CD... This, their 2nd album, was magical, as it contained great worship music like "Adonai" and "Dreams I Dream For You"... oh, and this monster hit you couldn't get away from, "Testify To Love". Don't get me wrong, its a great song, but in 1997-98, that song was EVA.REE.WHERE... I mean, all over. And yes, I know all the words. My favorite tunes on this album though, are the awesome strong-in-faith song "World Away" and the love song to God, "Reason Enough"
81
ALMOST MADE THE CUT
My first three CD purchases... 1) The Monkees box set... 2) The Pulp Fiction Soundtrack... and ...
The Hit Songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber (1995)... I don't know who sings these songs, and the liner notes are somewhere around here, I dunno... but I love "Another Suitcase in Another Hall" from Evita, a musical I don't really ever care to see... and I thought this version of "Memories" from CATS was incredible, even though I've seen CATS twice and it sucked both times... and of course, the title song from "The Phantom of the Opera" will rock your world... and "Jesus Christ Superstar"? Holy crap that song is a jam. And I got it all from this CD, on sale for $11.95, at On Cue in Troy, Alabama.
Monday, July 22, 2013
my favorite albums... 100 to 91
Didja read the intro? Do that first.
And now... drumroll please... my 100 favorite albums of all time...
100
"Found a Place" by FFH (2000)... Poppy and light, but still a great devotional/worship album. Be it a catchy tune about having the faith of "Daniel", or a prayer to be used however He sees fit, like in "Lord Move or Move Me", every song is a great devotion. My favorite is the simple praise song "Be My Glory"... check that one out on iTunes, if nothing else.
99
"Forever Your Girl" by Paula Abdul (1989)... Nowadays, Paula Abdul is somewhat of a punchline. Somewhat strange, flaky, rambling, a bubble of fluff and rainbows when she appeared on American Idol for what seemed like forever ago. But back in the day, she was a hot dancer who became a hot singer who sang awesome stuff like "Opposites Attract", with some dude named MC Scat Cat. She did a video where she had a romance with an animated, smoking cat! And she was praised for it! I love this CD. My favorite cut is the title track, "Forever Your Girl".
98
"Cocktail" Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1988)... My cousins Shannon and Frankie Jr, and his girlfriend at the time, were down from Virginia with family visiting us in Samson, Alabama, and the four of us decided to go to the movies. Now, this is in Enterprise, Alabama, where you go to the Clark Cinemas--whichever movie you want, that's the window you went to. Want this film, go to the left, want that film, go to the right, with the concession stand in the middle. That night, Shannon and I went to see "Hot to Trot", with Bobcat Goldthwait and Frankie Jr and his chick went to see "Cocktail". After our movies were over, we met in the parking lot. Frankie Jr raved about "Cocktail", so we all went to see it. Mine and Shannon's second film of the night, their 2nd time viewing the movie. And at the time, I thought the movie was awesome. Now? Eh. Its okay, I guess.
The soundtrack is rollicking, though. Its known for two main songs: Bobby McFerrin's "Don't Worry, Be Happy" and the love it or hate it "Kokomo" by The Beach Boys, which subsequently led to a reunion and a new tour and John Stamos on drums. No, I'm not kidding.
But the real gems are the covers of "All Shook Up" by Ry Cooder, and the original "Tutti Frutti" by Little Richard. It also features John Cougar Mellencamp, Starship and a bombastic Fabulous Thunderbirds on "Powerful Stuff"... my favorite of the bunch, though, is the "Hippy Hippy Shake" by the Georgia Satellites, which sometimes runs through my head when I'm rockin' at the espresso bar at Starbucks.
97
"Third Day" by Third Day (1996)... At the beginning of my huge Christian music fandom, and what I consider the growing-up of the CCM industry, there was a band out of Atlanta that emerged. They released this album with a bus on the front, and called it "Third Day"... this was after a few years of playing around the area, growing the fandom and releasing a few indie albums. They have release 8 studio albums and 2 worship CDs since then, but to me, their first is by far the best. It kicks off with "Nothing at All", then continues the bluesy rock with songs like "Blackbird", "Consuming Fire", and maybe the most well known from this CD, "Thief". My favorite is "Take My Life", a soft, worship tune that I first heard when my frat brother Jason White strummed it on guitar.
96
"Momentum" by Toby Mac (2001)... Not sure that dcTalk will ever unite. Makes me sad. That being said, Toby Mac is awesome. Christian rap and hip hop sometimes gets a bad... well, rap... because... well... its usually awful. I mean, most rap is awful, and Christian rap isn't much different. But Toby Mac somehow makes it work. And on "Momentum", there are shades of dcTalk all through, but it comes alive when you have guests like Kirk Franklin and GRITS join up. My favorite track by far is "Irene", but mostly because we did a dance to that song when I did missions in New York City in 2002. That ruled.
95
"Greatest Hits" by New Kids on the Block (2008)... Now, I know what you are going to say. What is that doing on your list. I know, I know... but I chose to put Greatest Hits and compilations on this list because yes, they are albums, and yes, they are albums I like. There are several GH on this list, including 2 box sets, and even a few live albums.
What? You meant "Why are the New Kids on this list?" Well, because in high school, as a dude, I wasn't allowed to like them. But as a grown up, I think its probably okay. And I like this CD--it saves me from having to actually get any of their other stuff. "Hangin' Tough", "Step by Step", "I'll Be Lovin' You (forever)"... take a listen, they aren't bad. My favorite? "Tonight"
94
"Dirty Dancing" Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1987)... Talk about an album to know by heart. Glancing at the track listing for this record, I know every word to Eric Carmen's "Hungry Eyes"... every word to Bruce Channel's "Hey Baby!"... and all the cheesy notes to Mickey & Sylvia's "Love is Strange". And, of course, "(I've had) The Time of My Life" with Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes. My favorite is "Be My Baby" by The Ronettes.
93
"Songs You Know By Heart: Jimmy Buffett's Greatest Hit(s)" by Jimmy Buffett (1985)... Its hard to believe that all of these songs were before 1985--in fact, they are all from 1973 to 1979. And yeah, if you are familiar with Buffett at all, you'll know "Cheeseburger in Paradise" and "Fins" and The Lovely Steph Leann's favorite, "Come Monday"... and of course, "Margaritaville", my favorite from the set.
92
"La Bamba" Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1987)... from a movie in my Top 500, I freakin' loved La Bamba when it came out. The story of Richie Valens, starring Lou Diamond Phillips, it chronicles the rise of Valens, his stardom and his death, "The day the music died", in a plane crash with The Big Bopper and Buddy Holly. The music in this movie should have its own credit in the cast list. TexMex rockers Los Lobos provided all the songs for Valens, and are featured here on the first half of the album--"Donna", "Come On Let's Go", and "La Bamba" included. The last half is also great, with covers of Buddy Holly's "Crying, Waiting, Hoping", Brian Setzer's version of "Summertime Blues" and the original Bo Diddley classic, "Who Do You Love". But its the Jackie Wilson cover of "Lonely Teardrops" by Howard Huntsberry that stands out for me.
91
"Breathless" by Kenny G (1992)... Oh, come on. In 1992, I liked it. And guess what? Its 12x platinum--it sold over 12,000,000 copies. So, back off.
AND ONE THAT DIDN'T MAKE IT...
The problem with cutting it to 100 is there are still so many albums to talk about... so here's one that I loved, but didn't quite make the list:
"The Greatest Hits" by INXS (1994)... Once again, rather than buying all the CDs, I found it easier to just get this one. And am I glad I did... "Suicide Blonde" with that opening riff... "What You Need" rocks... "Need You Tonight" is fun to sing... and "Beautiful Girls" is awesome. It loses points though because it doesn't include the cool "Mediate"...
Coming soon... the next 10 favorite albums of all time... including something a little Weird... our first TV soundtrack... and finally, a real, hard rock album...
And now... drumroll please... my 100 favorite albums of all time...
100
"Found a Place" by FFH (2000)... Poppy and light, but still a great devotional/worship album. Be it a catchy tune about having the faith of "Daniel", or a prayer to be used however He sees fit, like in "Lord Move or Move Me", every song is a great devotion. My favorite is the simple praise song "Be My Glory"... check that one out on iTunes, if nothing else.
99
"Forever Your Girl" by Paula Abdul (1989)... Nowadays, Paula Abdul is somewhat of a punchline. Somewhat strange, flaky, rambling, a bubble of fluff and rainbows when she appeared on American Idol for what seemed like forever ago. But back in the day, she was a hot dancer who became a hot singer who sang awesome stuff like "Opposites Attract", with some dude named MC Scat Cat. She did a video where she had a romance with an animated, smoking cat! And she was praised for it! I love this CD. My favorite cut is the title track, "Forever Your Girl".98
"Cocktail" Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1988)... My cousins Shannon and Frankie Jr, and his girlfriend at the time, were down from Virginia with family visiting us in Samson, Alabama, and the four of us decided to go to the movies. Now, this is in Enterprise, Alabama, where you go to the Clark Cinemas--whichever movie you want, that's the window you went to. Want this film, go to the left, want that film, go to the right, with the concession stand in the middle. That night, Shannon and I went to see "Hot to Trot", with Bobcat Goldthwait and Frankie Jr and his chick went to see "Cocktail". After our movies were over, we met in the parking lot. Frankie Jr raved about "Cocktail", so we all went to see it. Mine and Shannon's second film of the night, their 2nd time viewing the movie. And at the time, I thought the movie was awesome. Now? Eh. Its okay, I guess.
The soundtrack is rollicking, though. Its known for two main songs: Bobby McFerrin's "Don't Worry, Be Happy" and the love it or hate it "Kokomo" by The Beach Boys, which subsequently led to a reunion and a new tour and John Stamos on drums. No, I'm not kidding.
But the real gems are the covers of "All Shook Up" by Ry Cooder, and the original "Tutti Frutti" by Little Richard. It also features John Cougar Mellencamp, Starship and a bombastic Fabulous Thunderbirds on "Powerful Stuff"... my favorite of the bunch, though, is the "Hippy Hippy Shake" by the Georgia Satellites, which sometimes runs through my head when I'm rockin' at the espresso bar at Starbucks.
"Third Day" by Third Day (1996)... At the beginning of my huge Christian music fandom, and what I consider the growing-up of the CCM industry, there was a band out of Atlanta that emerged. They released this album with a bus on the front, and called it "Third Day"... this was after a few years of playing around the area, growing the fandom and releasing a few indie albums. They have release 8 studio albums and 2 worship CDs since then, but to me, their first is by far the best. It kicks off with "Nothing at All", then continues the bluesy rock with songs like "Blackbird", "Consuming Fire", and maybe the most well known from this CD, "Thief". My favorite is "Take My Life", a soft, worship tune that I first heard when my frat brother Jason White strummed it on guitar.
96
"Momentum" by Toby Mac (2001)... Not sure that dcTalk will ever unite. Makes me sad. That being said, Toby Mac is awesome. Christian rap and hip hop sometimes gets a bad... well, rap... because... well... its usually awful. I mean, most rap is awful, and Christian rap isn't much different. But Toby Mac somehow makes it work. And on "Momentum", there are shades of dcTalk all through, but it comes alive when you have guests like Kirk Franklin and GRITS join up. My favorite track by far is "Irene", but mostly because we did a dance to that song when I did missions in New York City in 2002. That ruled.
95
"Greatest Hits" by New Kids on the Block (2008)... Now, I know what you are going to say. What is that doing on your list. I know, I know... but I chose to put Greatest Hits and compilations on this list because yes, they are albums, and yes, they are albums I like. There are several GH on this list, including 2 box sets, and even a few live albums.
What? You meant "Why are the New Kids on this list?" Well, because in high school, as a dude, I wasn't allowed to like them. But as a grown up, I think its probably okay. And I like this CD--it saves me from having to actually get any of their other stuff. "Hangin' Tough", "Step by Step", "I'll Be Lovin' You (forever)"... take a listen, they aren't bad. My favorite? "Tonight"
94
"Dirty Dancing" Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1987)... Talk about an album to know by heart. Glancing at the track listing for this record, I know every word to Eric Carmen's "Hungry Eyes"... every word to Bruce Channel's "Hey Baby!"... and all the cheesy notes to Mickey & Sylvia's "Love is Strange". And, of course, "(I've had) The Time of My Life" with Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes. My favorite is "Be My Baby" by The Ronettes.
93
"Songs You Know By Heart: Jimmy Buffett's Greatest Hit(s)" by Jimmy Buffett (1985)... Its hard to believe that all of these songs were before 1985--in fact, they are all from 1973 to 1979. And yeah, if you are familiar with Buffett at all, you'll know "Cheeseburger in Paradise" and "Fins" and The Lovely Steph Leann's favorite, "Come Monday"... and of course, "Margaritaville", my favorite from the set.
"La Bamba" Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1987)... from a movie in my Top 500, I freakin' loved La Bamba when it came out. The story of Richie Valens, starring Lou Diamond Phillips, it chronicles the rise of Valens, his stardom and his death, "The day the music died", in a plane crash with The Big Bopper and Buddy Holly. The music in this movie should have its own credit in the cast list. TexMex rockers Los Lobos provided all the songs for Valens, and are featured here on the first half of the album--"Donna", "Come On Let's Go", and "La Bamba" included. The last half is also great, with covers of Buddy Holly's "Crying, Waiting, Hoping", Brian Setzer's version of "Summertime Blues" and the original Bo Diddley classic, "Who Do You Love". But its the Jackie Wilson cover of "Lonely Teardrops" by Howard Huntsberry that stands out for me.
91
"Breathless" by Kenny G (1992)... Oh, come on. In 1992, I liked it. And guess what? Its 12x platinum--it sold over 12,000,000 copies. So, back off.
AND ONE THAT DIDN'T MAKE IT...
The problem with cutting it to 100 is there are still so many albums to talk about... so here's one that I loved, but didn't quite make the list:
"The Greatest Hits" by INXS (1994)... Once again, rather than buying all the CDs, I found it easier to just get this one. And am I glad I did... "Suicide Blonde" with that opening riff... "What You Need" rocks... "Need You Tonight" is fun to sing... and "Beautiful Girls" is awesome. It loses points though because it doesn't include the cool "Mediate"...
Coming soon... the next 10 favorite albums of all time... including something a little Weird... our first TV soundtrack... and finally, a real, hard rock album...
Tuesday, May 07, 2013
a sacred delight (a bronx tale)
When I was at the end of my college experience, in the spring of 1998, I took my first mission trip to New York City. I had done missions work here and there, usually a week at a time, before, but this was NYC... I'd never been, and I couldn't turn down the chance to go. Problem was, this trip happened to come before, during, and after the Winter Quarter Graduation Ceremony at Troy State University. Mind you, this was when Troy State was Troy State, and it was in quarters, not semesters--semesters came the following fall.
The problem really wasn't a problem, because I had missed the deadline for renting my cap and gown for graduation anyway. I mean, it was like, $50. I couldn't come up with $50 on the fly... now, if you ask me how I afforded a trip to NYC, I can tell you... I have no clue. I'm trying to think back, and I really have no idea how I paid for that trip, or had the money to spend while on it. Who knows. Then again, with my credit card history, I might have just paid that trip off a few years ago.
Anyway, to finish that part of the story, on the Friday of trip, I glanced down at my watch, noticing it was after 2pm. I was walking down 7th Avenue, and turned to my friends Melanie Jackson, Allyson Guy and Troy McConnell and said, "Hey, I just graduated college..." My fellow graduate Dixon Brock told me some time later that they did say my name aloud. I never even saw a program with my name on it. Such is.
Well, while in New York City, one of the plans we had for the ministry we worked with was to plan a neighborhood coffeehouse in the Bronx, and we had music, and skits and snacks and coffee and so on...
And so I did. That night, in the Bronx, I gave my first--and last--public singing performance. I had to start the second verse over at one point, as I lost my place. Troy on guitar was as patient as ever. I made it through it, as off key as I ever was... and felt proud of it. Not sure anyone else got anything out of it, especially the Puerto Rican family in the front row... they didn't know Sunday Drive from Reese Witherspoon, but for me, it was courage. And humbling before God.
The problem really wasn't a problem, because I had missed the deadline for renting my cap and gown for graduation anyway. I mean, it was like, $50. I couldn't come up with $50 on the fly... now, if you ask me how I afforded a trip to NYC, I can tell you... I have no clue. I'm trying to think back, and I really have no idea how I paid for that trip, or had the money to spend while on it. Who knows. Then again, with my credit card history, I might have just paid that trip off a few years ago.
Anyway, to finish that part of the story, on the Friday of trip, I glanced down at my watch, noticing it was after 2pm. I was walking down 7th Avenue, and turned to my friends Melanie Jackson, Allyson Guy and Troy McConnell and said, "Hey, I just graduated college..." My fellow graduate Dixon Brock told me some time later that they did say my name aloud. I never even saw a program with my name on it. Such is.
 |
| Sunday Drive "Doors Wide Open' A pretty good CD, and only $2.99 on Amazon |
SIDEBAR!!! I worked at a local radio station in Troy, and produced my own Christian music show on Sunday nights, called Sunday Night Power--every Sunday, 7p to 11p, and with contacts from various record labels and promotions, I got all kinds of CDs and backstage passes and interviews and so on... and ended up meeting this band named Sunday Drive. They were your typical Christian music band of the late 90s... a few dudes, drums, guitars, some fast stuff, some slow stuff, and a few albums that were forgotten within a few years. And frankly, their music, while good, was mostly forgettable.
However comma there was one song that I singled in on, namely "Sacred Delight".
"Did you smile when you made the moon, and gave the sky its color? Did Creation dance in rhythm to Your song of life, I wonder? Did the angels know You knew my name before I existed? Did you tell them out of all You made, why You gave me Your image? Is it true, I'm Your heartbeat? And You love me more than anything...?"
I loved that song. Love that song.
And in the weeks leading up to the mission trip, I felt it important to make one request... "Can I... can I sing 'Sacred Delight'?" Now, its important to note I am not a singer. I sing. I wail. I warble. I can't remember half of a sermon two hours after its over, but I can nail every word to Sir Mix-a-Lot's "Baby Got Back" or "Jump" by KrisKross or "3am" by Matchbox 20 or even most Whitney Houston songs (pre-crack, of course)... but a singer I am not. The Lovely Steph Leann can attest.
Back then, it was just as true.
My buddy Troy McConnell didn't care. He said, "Dude. I love it. Let's do it." We practiced, and I know he gave of himself alot in listening to me warble and such. In my defense, it was in my key, and overall, it wasn't too terribly bad... but still, he encouraged me.
The trip comes. We are in New York City, spending our days in the community of Brooklyn and the Bronx, our nights in a little community church. And its cold... there is snow, not Alabama snow, mind you, but real snow. For me, it was the first real snow I'd ever seen. It was like powder, and when you threw it at someone, it disintegrated into a spray of fine flakes, leaving very little moisture on your clothes--unlike snow in Alabama... throw a snowball here and you are likely to give someone a concussion with a good head shot.
So, the day of, it was cold and rainy. It was snowy outside, and I woke up with a head full of allergies and congestion. I could barely breath, my nose was so clogged. I thought of cancelling my little tune, but just wasn't sure if that was the right thing to do. This wasn't even about other people worshipping, this was about me telling God that I will praise Him no matter what. In a little empty church sanctuary in Brooklyn, I sat listening to both Troy and our friend Claire Baldwin simply tell me, "You do what you feel you should. But if you feel the urge to praise Him, then you do it. Who cares what anyone else says? You are performing for an audience of One. Its His worship."
 |
| Troy and I, in mid-song. Well, Troy in mid-song, me in mid-song-butcher. |
And so I did. That night, in the Bronx, I gave my first--and last--public singing performance. I had to start the second verse over at one point, as I lost my place. Troy on guitar was as patient as ever. I made it through it, as off key as I ever was... and felt proud of it. Not sure anyone else got anything out of it, especially the Puerto Rican family in the front row... they didn't know Sunday Drive from Reese Witherspoon, but for me, it was courage. And humbling before God.
What sacred delight. What infinite wonder, that I'm precious in Your sight. You love me like no other, not other. Sacred delight.
So, this coming Sunday, I'll sit down with my notes, my Sword, my lesson book and we'll discuss the proper ways of taking on Hell with a water pistol. I'm sure I'll "uh" and "um" and "...you know..." and "...so..." alot. Count on it.
But, if like that night in the Bronx, if can get my fat head and large ego out of the way, God just might say something important. Something delightful. Something sacred.
Did you think of me the day you died, and know that I'd intend this... did you know one day I'd come to you, in search of your forgiveness... is it true, I'm your heartbeat... and you choice to die than to live without me...
Word.
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| Of course, it wasn't all serious... in one of many skits, Kendrick and I do something a little more comical--a two person, five character skit called something like "No No Not Today" |
Thursday, August 16, 2012
foolishness
As Teber was teaching our Life Connection Class on Sunday--and has been for the past few weeks--about our faith and the reasons behind it (a great series of lessons, and a great presentation of this part of the Gospel) and it made me think of something that I wrote back on October 12th, 2000.
Its a little write up centered around a little tune by Nichole Nordeman called "Fool For You", a song that discussing that even though we may not understand why we believe it, we believe it and are willing to live the life of those beliefs--no matter the cost to our reputation or our image. (note: this song is also featured on the two disc "Love, Pride & Deep Fried Chicken: The Soundtrack to d$'s Life" collection, forthcoming).
I have taken it, give it a little editing twist, added and subtracted and now I simply call it "Nothin' But a Fool". Here goes...
Nichole Nordeman rocks my face off. In the late 90s and early part of the 2000s, when I was deeply absorbed in Christian music (before it all started sounding exactly alike and I discovered podcasts and audiobooks), Nichole Nordeman was one of those artists that helped to change my life--dcTalk, Jennifer Knapp and Watermark also have that distinction. And from the album "This Mystery" comes a song that also changed my life. But first, an oddly connecting anecdotal story...
Well, let's begin in 1997... I had a crush on this chick, and I thought of ways to impress her. I'm not going to lie to you, I was a dumb dater then... what I mean by that is, all the stuff I know not to do now, I learned by doing it then and realizing how dumb I was... I'm lucky anyone would have me. Okay, back to the story.
So, I called this girl up, and sang... yes, sang "My Girl" on her answering machine. Now you sit there and laugh, but at the time it seemed like a good idea... well, if you must know, I didn't hear from her for a long time. Yes, it was dumb. And I'm sure I looked incredibly stupid... and foolish. But you know what, I liked her, so I didn't mind looking like a fool for her.
Not to many years ago, someone asked me about God. They were an atheist, and they asked me all sorts of questions that I, being a new Christian, couldn't give a solid answer. Truth-be-known, I'm not sure I could answer some of them now, but it was some of the old unbeliever favorites like "How can a loving God allow such sin in the world?" and "Why do you praise a dead man, Jesus?" and that kind of stuff. You and I both know, in our hearts, the answers to both of those questions, but its hard trying to relay those answers without your opponent having an open mind to the idea of Faith. So, I looked like a fool. But you know what? I like Jesus, he had done a lot for me, so I didn't mind looking like a fool for him.
I admit that in my darkest hours I've asked what-if, what if we created some kind of man-made faith like this? Out of good intention, or emotional invention, after life is through, there will be no You. They want proof of all these miracles I claim, because only fools believe that man can walk on waves. Maybe its true, but I'd be a fool for You because you asked me to. A simpleton who's seemingly naive, I do believe You came and made Yourself a fool for me.
Now, I know I'm not the only one who has done this... wondered what if?
What if... God really doesn't exist?
What if... other religions and beliefs are actually right?
What if... when I die, there is nothing?
Those questions you never acknowledge that you ask, because you want to be strong in your faith, but when you are really at a low point, Satan smacks you with the sin of unbelief. And if I am wrong in what I believe, when it’s all said and done, boy, will I look like a fool. But if believing makes me a fool, I love God, so I don’t mind looking like a fool for him.
But then I think about Jesus, who came here two thousand years ago. He preached to the masses, to the crowds, to everyone. He wasn't popular with the "important" people, he could care less that consorting with that woman at the well was deemed undignified and frankly, could give squat about the Pharisees opinions when he visited the low life tax collectors at their houses. He did it because he loved them... and us. They called him a fool. But he loved us so much, he didn't mind looking like a fool.
We as humans are so prideful, if we lower ourselves down enough to look foolish for something or someone, then that means we hold them dear to us... you wouldn't be a fool for just anyone, I'm sure. But when you love someone, you make a fool of yourself sometimes... have you ever been embarrassed for worshipping or praising God in public? Its okay to say yes, because I have... but you know what? Praise Jesus, Hallelujah, pass the cornbread. Sometimes the deepest, most impactful worship you can have is when you just raise your hands, shut your eyes and let God move you however he sees fit.
For a time, I would even close my eyes and sign the worship music--I knew sign, I loved sign and for me, it was a glorious way to worship. Somehow, over the years, I became self-conscious of that and stopped. And that truly is a shame. Who knows... maybe during something I know (like the next time we sing "The Air I Breathe", which might be never, as that's a forgotten classic), I'll just let it go and throw my hands up. We find ourselves sitting next to John and Ashley Wolf many times on the front row of that side-section, so I hope I don't smack Ashley during my over dramatic sign for "...and I-I-I-I-I I'm desperate for You..." If I do, though, then we'll both look like fools. Fools for Jesus. And isn't that how it should be?
I think so.
I would be a fool for You, only if You asked me to. I'm a simpleton who's only thinking of the cause of Love, I will speak Jesus' name. If that makes me crazy, they can call me crazed, I'm happy to be seemingly naive. I do believe You came and made yourself a fool for me.
Its a little write up centered around a little tune by Nichole Nordeman called "Fool For You", a song that discussing that even though we may not understand why we believe it, we believe it and are willing to live the life of those beliefs--no matter the cost to our reputation or our image. (note: this song is also featured on the two disc "Love, Pride & Deep Fried Chicken: The Soundtrack to d$'s Life" collection, forthcoming).
I have taken it, give it a little editing twist, added and subtracted and now I simply call it "Nothin' But a Fool". Here goes...
There are times when faith and common sense do not align, when hardcore evidence of You is hard to find. I am silenced in the face of argumentative debate--is a long hill, its a lonely climb--they want proof. They proof of all the mysteries I claim, cause only fools would want to chant a dead man's name. Maybe its true but... I'd be a fool for You. Because you asked me to. A simpleton who's seemingly naive, I do believe You came and made Yourself a fool for me.
Nichole Nordeman rocks my face off. In the late 90s and early part of the 2000s, when I was deeply absorbed in Christian music (before it all started sounding exactly alike and I discovered podcasts and audiobooks), Nichole Nordeman was one of those artists that helped to change my life--dcTalk, Jennifer Knapp and Watermark also have that distinction. And from the album "This Mystery" comes a song that also changed my life. But first, an oddly connecting anecdotal story...
Well, let's begin in 1997... I had a crush on this chick, and I thought of ways to impress her. I'm not going to lie to you, I was a dumb dater then... what I mean by that is, all the stuff I know not to do now, I learned by doing it then and realizing how dumb I was... I'm lucky anyone would have me. Okay, back to the story.
So, I called this girl up, and sang... yes, sang "My Girl" on her answering machine. Now you sit there and laugh, but at the time it seemed like a good idea... well, if you must know, I didn't hear from her for a long time. Yes, it was dumb. And I'm sure I looked incredibly stupid... and foolish. But you know what, I liked her, so I didn't mind looking like a fool for her.
Not to many years ago, someone asked me about God. They were an atheist, and they asked me all sorts of questions that I, being a new Christian, couldn't give a solid answer. Truth-be-known, I'm not sure I could answer some of them now, but it was some of the old unbeliever favorites like "How can a loving God allow such sin in the world?" and "Why do you praise a dead man, Jesus?" and that kind of stuff. You and I both know, in our hearts, the answers to both of those questions, but its hard trying to relay those answers without your opponent having an open mind to the idea of Faith. So, I looked like a fool. But you know what? I like Jesus, he had done a lot for me, so I didn't mind looking like a fool for him.
I admit that in my darkest hours I've asked what-if, what if we created some kind of man-made faith like this? Out of good intention, or emotional invention, after life is through, there will be no You. They want proof of all these miracles I claim, because only fools believe that man can walk on waves. Maybe its true, but I'd be a fool for You because you asked me to. A simpleton who's seemingly naive, I do believe You came and made Yourself a fool for me.
Now, I know I'm not the only one who has done this... wondered what if?
What if... God really doesn't exist?
What if... other religions and beliefs are actually right?
What if... when I die, there is nothing?
Those questions you never acknowledge that you ask, because you want to be strong in your faith, but when you are really at a low point, Satan smacks you with the sin of unbelief. And if I am wrong in what I believe, when it’s all said and done, boy, will I look like a fool. But if believing makes me a fool, I love God, so I don’t mind looking like a fool for him.
But then I think about Jesus, who came here two thousand years ago. He preached to the masses, to the crowds, to everyone. He wasn't popular with the "important" people, he could care less that consorting with that woman at the well was deemed undignified and frankly, could give squat about the Pharisees opinions when he visited the low life tax collectors at their houses. He did it because he loved them... and us. They called him a fool. But he loved us so much, he didn't mind looking like a fool.
Unaware of popularity. Unconcerned with dignity. You made me free. That's proof enough for me.
We as humans are so prideful, if we lower ourselves down enough to look foolish for something or someone, then that means we hold them dear to us... you wouldn't be a fool for just anyone, I'm sure. But when you love someone, you make a fool of yourself sometimes... have you ever been embarrassed for worshipping or praising God in public? Its okay to say yes, because I have... but you know what? Praise Jesus, Hallelujah, pass the cornbread. Sometimes the deepest, most impactful worship you can have is when you just raise your hands, shut your eyes and let God move you however he sees fit.
For a time, I would even close my eyes and sign the worship music--I knew sign, I loved sign and for me, it was a glorious way to worship. Somehow, over the years, I became self-conscious of that and stopped. And that truly is a shame. Who knows... maybe during something I know (like the next time we sing "The Air I Breathe", which might be never, as that's a forgotten classic), I'll just let it go and throw my hands up. We find ourselves sitting next to John and Ashley Wolf many times on the front row of that side-section, so I hope I don't smack Ashley during my over dramatic sign for "...and I-I-I-I-I I'm desperate for You..." If I do, though, then we'll both look like fools. Fools for Jesus. And isn't that how it should be?
I think so.
I would be a fool for You, only if You asked me to. I'm a simpleton who's only thinking of the cause of Love, I will speak Jesus' name. If that makes me crazy, they can call me crazed, I'm happy to be seemingly naive. I do believe You came and made yourself a fool for me.
Friday, March 02, 2012
The Idol Semi Finals: The Chicks
Note... when I say "Coming tomorrow...", consider that might mean "coming in a few days or so, due to the fact I have a three month old". So there ya go.
Anyway, we saw the guys compete already... and now, its the chicks turn... Chelsea Sorrell... EVP... Jen Hirsh... Brielle Von Hugel... Hallie Day... Skylar Laine... Bayley Brown!... Haley Johnson... Holly Cav... J-Sanch... Elise Testosterone... Twelve chicks, the five most popular will go into the Idols Top Ten, plus the judges Wild Card Picks.
By the way, we wanted to watch Idol last night, but after an anniversary dinner two days late, plus a movie (Denzel, who is always solid, in "Safe House"), we got in too late... so I've managed to avoid all media that might pertain to who won the Finals Spots on Idol on Thursdays results show, as did The Lovely Steph Leann. So here we are. And what is this? Well, this...
The judges--Creepy Uncle Steven in a pimp hat... Randy "The Dawg" Jackson... and J-Lo come out to much fanfare and applause, followed closely by Ryan Seacrusty.
Up first, its Chelsea Sorrell, who hails from a teeny tiny town in North Carolina... singing a Carrie Underwood power twang tune. She kinda sounds like good karaoke. And that's all. Carrie Underwood? More like Karaokewood! See what I did there? I kill me.
The judges say that they thought the song choice should have been better. They didn't love it.
Next up, its wedding singer/DJ Erika Van Pelt... I said, "Aw, EVP", and The Lovely Steph Leann looked at me funny, saying "Uh... executive vice president?" "No! Erika!" "Ah."
And she's going to try to do a very hard task... Heart. "What About Love" is her song, and her outfit doesn't fool me... she's a disco legging away from being a Wilson sister. Its not a bad song, but a little baritoney for my tastes.
The judges say they liked it, but she could have gone stronger. They didn't love it.
(worth noting... I'm blogging for the first time from the new laptop... still figuring out the settings and such)
Jen Hirsh, who I think I kinda like. Her family video shows her hometown in California, and her family's wine vinyard. Wait... what? Tonight, she'll be singing "One and Only" from Adele. Poor Jen Hirsh--she looks like she took a bath in Fake Tan. She reminds me of Ross Geller, who ended up in the fake tan booth in that episode of Friends way back in the day. Or "Going the Distance", with Justin Long, a movie that like, nobody saw except for me and The Lovely Steph Leann. Not a bad movie, though based solely on the premise of random sex leading to love, then a relationship, not the other way around.
Oh, Jen Hirsh is pretty doggone good.
The judges say they liked the fact she let loose. They did love it.
(worth noting... don't know if its the slow songs, or just the fact she's tired, but The Lovely Steph Leann keeps drifting off, while Camp sits comfortably, gazing at Randy the Dawg)
And speaking of Randy the Dawg, he admits to Seacrusty that the previous night's show had the judges being a little too lenient on some of the dudes. Gee, ya think? I wonder if he saw all the message boards and columns about how it was a love-fest.
Brielle Von Hugel, the 17 year old from Staten Island who has the obsessive, smothering mom, and we are lucky enough to have Mom Von Hugel here in the audience! Yay. Singing "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay", she sits surrounded by the Idol guys on the edge of the stage.
I shook my head, and said, "I think this is terrible"
The Lovely Steph Leann, without looking at me, just deadpans, "Yep."
Creepy Uncle Steven says, "Bee-you-tee-ful!" J-Lo says, "True performer." Randy the Dawg says, "Yo!"
The Lovely Steph Leann says, "Campbell's pooping."
I reply, "Guess he didn't like her either."
And we are back, with Hallie Day, 24, from Baltimore, Maryland. We like her--she was the one who was strung out and an addict, but her husband brought her back from the edge and saved her. Saved her in every way a woman can be saved.
Doing one of my Top 50 favorite songs of all time, "Feelin' Good", originally done by the immortal Nina Simone, Hallie Day starts... and I like it already. Love it, actually.
Me: Holy crap, she's got perfect teeth
Her: Sure. Probably capped.
Amazing what one song that you love done well will do for your thoughts on an Idol can make. Did that sentence make any sense? Well, I know what I mean. Anyway, Hallie Day is my favorite of all performances--guys or chicks--so far in this semi-final round. Loved it.
J-Lo loved it. Creepy Uncle Steven loved it. Randy the Dawg loved it.
Speaking of poopy, Camp has finished. Time to change. Be back in mere moments.
...
...
...
aaaaand we're back. Now that was some jacked up crap. Wow.
Okay, so Idol chicks... five down, seven to go. Now, its Skylar Laine, the most countrified country girl we have on this years show, and that's saying something as we have several country chicks this year.
Kicking it country style, Skylar throws down with some country ditty that I'm not familiar with, but one can only assume its called "Stay With Me", as she sings that line about 40 times. She looks like she could be related closely to Amy Poehler.
And, as expected, the judges loved it. Randy the Dawg says, "its like Reba mixed with Kelly Clarkson!" and J-Lo chimes in "mixed with Tina Turner!"
Finally, its one of my faves, Bayley Brown! Now, Bayley Brown!, I've been rooting for you for a while, so don't let me down Bayley Brown! That rhymed. On purpose.
Here's... sigh... here's "Amazed". Seriously, Bayley Brown!, you have this once in a lifetime chance to show America what you can do, and you use this to sing "Amazed"? This isn't good. I'm wearing a frown, Bayley Brown!, though I do like that gown.
Now, when I rank Bayley Brown! at the end of this post, if I were being honest, I'd probably rank her fairly low. But since I really dig Bayley Brown!, and I'm hoping that my ranking of her will influence the votes that happened two days ago, I'll probably rank her higher.
The judges didn't love it. Nor should they. Sigh.
So now, it's Hollie Cav doing some Christina Aguilera. I'm predicting that she'll sing "Reflection", which is a very teenage chick thing to do... But The Lovely Steph Leann is predicting "Beautiful", a song that she just deplores.
"Reflection", from Disney's "Mulan", isn't one of my favorites, but its not bad. And Hollie Cav is doing a fine job with it. I guess her reflection is showing who she is inside. But, I'm puzzled by the lack of lips on this chick's face. Very, very thin lips.
And the judges just sop her up with a biscuit.
So, here comes Haley Johnson, and it just occurred to me that we've got a Hallie, a Hollie and a Haley in this season. Haley is a former barista, from Oregon. She didn't work at Starbucks, though, so that's one strike, but she does seem like a nice lady.
"Sweet Dreams"? Really? The Eurythmics? I hate this song, that being the original version. And I'm not a fan of the cover version by Haley Johnson here. I look over and The Lovely Steph Leann has a very pained look on her face. "Its a weird song anyway, and I feel like she's took all the melody... she wasn't flat, but I kept feeling like she was going there, and I kept thinking 'oh, please stay on key, stay on key!'" There ya go.
Personally, I feel like this was a terrible song for this audition... this is something you do in 80s week in Week Nine, after you have proven yourself in other songs. Not something you do when you have ONE chance to make the finals.
J-Lo loved it, and all the special things she did in her song. Creepy Uncle Steven said he loved it. And Randy the Dawg? "Sort of like a nightmare, not a dream..." And while I agree with RtD, we both feel bad for her because she's the first person in the whole Semis to get a bad review... when many deserve the negative reviews, even more so than Haley Johnson. Just sayin'.
Coming in at 6 foot tall or so, its 16 year old Shannon Magrane! Holy crap! She's singing "Go Light Your World" by Kathy Triccoli!?!? That's AWESOME!!! Back in 1995, Kathy T was the stuff in Contemporary Christian Music, and this song was used in countlessdrama to music human videos in various churchy type retreaty things. I was in several in my years. This song is all about carrying the light of Christ to those who are hopeless and lost.
I love this chick. She might be my new Bayley Brown! because after tonight, Bayley Brown! won't be around much longer.
Randy the Dawg loved it. J-Lo loved it. Creepy Uncle Steven used the term "my reality check bounced...", but he loved it.
In the 11th spot, its Jessica Sanchez, a girl who's been dreaming of this chance since she was five years old... so it feels like she has been dreaming of this for about three or four years.
Not sure if I like J-Sanch's song, but she sounds like she's got vocal chops to spare. I'm not even sure of what song this is, but she just belted out something that will almost ensure her a spot in the Top 13, if not by votes, then by a Wild Card Pick.
Randy the Dawg gives the, "Yo! That girl can sing!" to J-Sanch. J-Lo loved it. Creepy Uncle Steven ogles her and gives her affection.
See, Bayley Brown! and Haley Johnson should take notes--THAT is the kind of performance you give to get into a Top 13.
Finally... Elise Testosterone, 28, and lives in Charleston, South Carolina, and she will end our show tonight. Sitting at the piano, apparently singing another Adele song, Elise kicks off the song with this raspy voice that I think I really, really like.
Dude. I dig this. I dig this all around, and back again. Rock on.
And the judges love the whole thing.
So rather than waxing poetic about the performances, let's just go straight to the Idol Top 13...
My best to worst... Hallie Day... Elise Testosterone... J-Sanch... Shannon Magrane... Hollie Cav... Bayley Brown! (where I wanted her to be)... Jen Hirsh... EVP... Skylar Laine... Bayley Brown! (where she probably should be)... Chelsea Sorrell... Haley Johnson... Brielle Von Hugel
My predictions for the Top Five... Elise Testosterone... J-Sanch... Hollie Cav... Jen Hirsh... Skylar Laine... Hallie Day... my picks for possible Wild Card: Brielle Von Hugel... EVP... maybe Shannon Magrane... Unfortunately, no Bayley Brown! selection predicted.
Anyway, we saw the guys compete already... and now, its the chicks turn... Chelsea Sorrell... EVP... Jen Hirsh... Brielle Von Hugel... Hallie Day... Skylar Laine... Bayley Brown!... Haley Johnson... Holly Cav... J-Sanch... Elise Testosterone... Twelve chicks, the five most popular will go into the Idols Top Ten, plus the judges Wild Card Picks.
By the way, we wanted to watch Idol last night, but after an anniversary dinner two days late, plus a movie (Denzel, who is always solid, in "Safe House"), we got in too late... so I've managed to avoid all media that might pertain to who won the Finals Spots on Idol on Thursdays results show, as did The Lovely Steph Leann. So here we are. And what is this? Well, this...
THIS IS
THE AMERICAN
IDOL CHICKS
The judges--Creepy Uncle Steven in a pimp hat... Randy "The Dawg" Jackson... and J-Lo come out to much fanfare and applause, followed closely by Ryan Seacrusty.
Up first, its Chelsea Sorrell, who hails from a teeny tiny town in North Carolina... singing a Carrie Underwood power twang tune. She kinda sounds like good karaoke. And that's all. Carrie Underwood? More like Karaokewood! See what I did there? I kill me.
The judges say that they thought the song choice should have been better. They didn't love it.
Next up, its wedding singer/DJ Erika Van Pelt... I said, "Aw, EVP", and The Lovely Steph Leann looked at me funny, saying "Uh... executive vice president?" "No! Erika!" "Ah."
And she's going to try to do a very hard task... Heart. "What About Love" is her song, and her outfit doesn't fool me... she's a disco legging away from being a Wilson sister. Its not a bad song, but a little baritoney for my tastes.
The judges say they liked it, but she could have gone stronger. They didn't love it.
(worth noting... I'm blogging for the first time from the new laptop... still figuring out the settings and such)
Jen Hirsh, who I think I kinda like. Her family video shows her hometown in California, and her family's wine vinyard. Wait... what? Tonight, she'll be singing "One and Only" from Adele. Poor Jen Hirsh--she looks like she took a bath in Fake Tan. She reminds me of Ross Geller, who ended up in the fake tan booth in that episode of Friends way back in the day. Or "Going the Distance", with Justin Long, a movie that like, nobody saw except for me and The Lovely Steph Leann. Not a bad movie, though based solely on the premise of random sex leading to love, then a relationship, not the other way around.
Oh, Jen Hirsh is pretty doggone good.
The judges say they liked the fact she let loose. They did love it.
(worth noting... don't know if its the slow songs, or just the fact she's tired, but The Lovely Steph Leann keeps drifting off, while Camp sits comfortably, gazing at Randy the Dawg)
And speaking of Randy the Dawg, he admits to Seacrusty that the previous night's show had the judges being a little too lenient on some of the dudes. Gee, ya think? I wonder if he saw all the message boards and columns about how it was a love-fest.
Brielle Von Hugel, the 17 year old from Staten Island who has the obsessive, smothering mom, and we are lucky enough to have Mom Von Hugel here in the audience! Yay. Singing "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay", she sits surrounded by the Idol guys on the edge of the stage.
I shook my head, and said, "I think this is terrible"
The Lovely Steph Leann, without looking at me, just deadpans, "Yep."
Creepy Uncle Steven says, "Bee-you-tee-ful!" J-Lo says, "True performer." Randy the Dawg says, "Yo!"
The Lovely Steph Leann says, "Campbell's pooping."
I reply, "Guess he didn't like her either."
And we are back, with Hallie Day, 24, from Baltimore, Maryland. We like her--she was the one who was strung out and an addict, but her husband brought her back from the edge and saved her. Saved her in every way a woman can be saved.
Doing one of my Top 50 favorite songs of all time, "Feelin' Good", originally done by the immortal Nina Simone, Hallie Day starts... and I like it already. Love it, actually.
Me: Holy crap, she's got perfect teeth
Her: Sure. Probably capped.
Amazing what one song that you love done well will do for your thoughts on an Idol can make. Did that sentence make any sense? Well, I know what I mean. Anyway, Hallie Day is my favorite of all performances--guys or chicks--so far in this semi-final round. Loved it.
J-Lo loved it. Creepy Uncle Steven loved it. Randy the Dawg loved it.
Speaking of poopy, Camp has finished. Time to change. Be back in mere moments.
...
...
...
aaaaand we're back. Now that was some jacked up crap. Wow.
Okay, so Idol chicks... five down, seven to go. Now, its Skylar Laine, the most countrified country girl we have on this years show, and that's saying something as we have several country chicks this year.
Kicking it country style, Skylar throws down with some country ditty that I'm not familiar with, but one can only assume its called "Stay With Me", as she sings that line about 40 times. She looks like she could be related closely to Amy Poehler.
And, as expected, the judges loved it. Randy the Dawg says, "its like Reba mixed with Kelly Clarkson!" and J-Lo chimes in "mixed with Tina Turner!"
Finally, its one of my faves, Bayley Brown! Now, Bayley Brown!, I've been rooting for you for a while, so don't let me down Bayley Brown! That rhymed. On purpose.
Here's... sigh... here's "Amazed". Seriously, Bayley Brown!, you have this once in a lifetime chance to show America what you can do, and you use this to sing "Amazed"? This isn't good. I'm wearing a frown, Bayley Brown!, though I do like that gown.
Now, when I rank Bayley Brown! at the end of this post, if I were being honest, I'd probably rank her fairly low. But since I really dig Bayley Brown!, and I'm hoping that my ranking of her will influence the votes that happened two days ago, I'll probably rank her higher.
The judges didn't love it. Nor should they. Sigh.
So now, it's Hollie Cav doing some Christina Aguilera. I'm predicting that she'll sing "Reflection", which is a very teenage chick thing to do... But The Lovely Steph Leann is predicting "Beautiful", a song that she just deplores.
"Reflection", from Disney's "Mulan", isn't one of my favorites, but its not bad. And Hollie Cav is doing a fine job with it. I guess her reflection is showing who she is inside. But, I'm puzzled by the lack of lips on this chick's face. Very, very thin lips.
And the judges just sop her up with a biscuit.
So, here comes Haley Johnson, and it just occurred to me that we've got a Hallie, a Hollie and a Haley in this season. Haley is a former barista, from Oregon. She didn't work at Starbucks, though, so that's one strike, but she does seem like a nice lady.
"Sweet Dreams"? Really? The Eurythmics? I hate this song, that being the original version. And I'm not a fan of the cover version by Haley Johnson here. I look over and The Lovely Steph Leann has a very pained look on her face. "Its a weird song anyway, and I feel like she's took all the melody... she wasn't flat, but I kept feeling like she was going there, and I kept thinking 'oh, please stay on key, stay on key!'" There ya go.
Personally, I feel like this was a terrible song for this audition... this is something you do in 80s week in Week Nine, after you have proven yourself in other songs. Not something you do when you have ONE chance to make the finals.
J-Lo loved it, and all the special things she did in her song. Creepy Uncle Steven said he loved it. And Randy the Dawg? "Sort of like a nightmare, not a dream..." And while I agree with RtD, we both feel bad for her because she's the first person in the whole Semis to get a bad review... when many deserve the negative reviews, even more so than Haley Johnson. Just sayin'.
Coming in at 6 foot tall or so, its 16 year old Shannon Magrane! Holy crap! She's singing "Go Light Your World" by Kathy Triccoli!?!? That's AWESOME!!! Back in 1995, Kathy T was the stuff in Contemporary Christian Music, and this song was used in countless
I love this chick. She might be my new Bayley Brown! because after tonight, Bayley Brown! won't be around much longer.
Randy the Dawg loved it. J-Lo loved it. Creepy Uncle Steven used the term "my reality check bounced...", but he loved it.
In the 11th spot, its Jessica Sanchez, a girl who's been dreaming of this chance since she was five years old... so it feels like she has been dreaming of this for about three or four years.
Not sure if I like J-Sanch's song, but she sounds like she's got vocal chops to spare. I'm not even sure of what song this is, but she just belted out something that will almost ensure her a spot in the Top 13, if not by votes, then by a Wild Card Pick.
Randy the Dawg gives the, "Yo! That girl can sing!" to J-Sanch. J-Lo loved it. Creepy Uncle Steven ogles her and gives her affection.
See, Bayley Brown! and Haley Johnson should take notes--THAT is the kind of performance you give to get into a Top 13.
Finally... Elise Testosterone, 28, and lives in Charleston, South Carolina, and she will end our show tonight. Sitting at the piano, apparently singing another Adele song, Elise kicks off the song with this raspy voice that I think I really, really like.
Dude. I dig this. I dig this all around, and back again. Rock on.
And the judges love the whole thing.
So rather than waxing poetic about the performances, let's just go straight to the Idol Top 13...
My best to worst... Hallie Day... Elise Testosterone... J-Sanch... Shannon Magrane... Hollie Cav... Bayley Brown! (where I wanted her to be)... Jen Hirsh... EVP... Skylar Laine... Bayley Brown! (where she probably should be)... Chelsea Sorrell... Haley Johnson... Brielle Von Hugel
My predictions for the Top Five... Elise Testosterone... J-Sanch... Hollie Cav... Jen Hirsh... Skylar Laine... Hallie Day... my picks for possible Wild Card: Brielle Von Hugel... EVP... maybe Shannon Magrane... Unfortunately, no Bayley Brown! selection predicted.
Friday, August 26, 2011
The Great CD Purge
But alas, our CD wall is too big. On the left here, you'll see our CD collection, minus about 125 or so, which were taken downstairs for uploading into iTunes, followed by selling and/or purging.
We decided it would be good to buy one of those big CD books, one that holds like, 350 or so, and dispose of the plastic cases that are taking up so much room. We could keep some CDs in their cases, but agreed that we could not keep any CDs that would not fit into the racks on the far left, which will hold a combined 152... yes, I counted.
So, the process began. Two waves of looking over the CDs produced the ones to get rid of... the first wave, it was easy to dispense of DJ Maj or The Smalltown Poets or Pax 217 and other albums I had not listened to since perhaps the day I acquired them... the second look over the collection resulted in getting rid of the last two FFH albums (keeping the first few) and the last two Point of Grace CDs and a Ginny Owens CD and some Starbucks Pop/Rock collections and such.
So, finally, I had the pile of CDs that were leaving The Cabana forever. Well, except for those that come back... here are a few of the gems unearthed...
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| This is one of the many CDs we have two copies of, which is why its in the "get rid of" pile. We'll be giving this one to someone in the family. You know, even if Jennifer Knapp now attends the First Lesbetarian Church, that doesn't change the fact she was awesome back in the day. |
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| Starbucks sold this. We all admired The Reverend Al Green's great expression here. |
 |
| So, I have a ton of Christian music CDs, and many of them are these kind of promos. Usually they ran around $1.99 to maybe $2.99, but if you bought one of the CDs represented , you got the promo CD for free. And from about 1998 to about 2002, I purchased a ton of those albums that would get me the free CDs. |
 |
| Ever heard of Katy Hudson? No? Well, ever heard of Katy Perry? Yes? Then you've heard of Katy Hudson. Same chick. This is her early Christian rock effort, and its just not very good. |
 |
| So, I consider "Jagged Little Pill" to be an incredible CD. Ten years after its release, in 2005, Alanis released an acoustic version of the album... and its just not good. She sounds fine, the music is fine, but by 2005, she was married and happy and content and so on, ruining the rage that made her first album so awesome. If you want great acoustic from Alanis, get her MTV Unplugged CD. Currently, I'd like to give our spare copy of JPL to our 14 year old niece, as I think she should know Alanis. The Lovely Steph Leann disagrees. |
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| Remember when Christian Rock was awesome? Yeah, I miss it too. |
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| Not even his first CD. Somehow I ended up with his 2nd one and I bought it when Coconuts was still open. The price? 99 cents. Not sure I'm going to turn a profit when I sell this one. |
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| This is a 2 part set... and I don't know how and when I got these. Whats even more remarkable is that the Lovely Steph Leann has these as well, and she can't remember where she got them. And even more, we have a THIRD set of these two CDs, and I have no idea how they came to be in our home. |
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| And so, this is everything I lugged into 2nd and Charles. Some of these are even unopened. |
I took all these CDs to 2nd and Charles tonight. For everything, including some movies we tossed in there to sell, we had a choice of about $35 in cash or $71 in credit. I took the credit, though The Lovely Steph Leann sighed, "With $25, that's two movies we could have gone to."
I retorted, "Well, with $71, that's about 10 movies we can buy."
And tomorrow, I'll sift through the rest of the CDs, make some more hard choices--like, do I need to keep the Natalie Merchant "Tigerlily" CD or John Mellencamp's Greatest, or can I get by on having them in iTunes?
These are the hard decisions that have to be made.
The Summer of Blogging Day Sixty Four
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