William's Song a Day Blog

1646 Sly and the Family Stone - Hot Fun in the Summertime

2012-02-13T07:14:00.000-08:00

1646 Sly and the Family Stone - Hot Fun in the Summertime

From: Greatest Hits, Year: 1970
Genre: Soul/Funk/Rock

I'm getting tired of looking out and seeing dank and dreary grey that late winter brings. So today I'm attempting to remedy that by at least mentally envisioning some much nicer weather and I thought that listening to some appropriate music would help that along.
After listening to this awesome track I knew I had my pick for today.

Hear Hot Fun in the Summertime on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Glenn Miller - In The Mood

My song pick two years ago today: Tarot - Ashes To The Stars

My song pick three years ago today: Goo Goo Dolls - Broadway

My song pick four years ago today: The Offspring - Come Out And Play

+

1645 Jethro Tull - Jump Start

2012-02-12T21:47:00.000-08:00

1645 Jethro Tull - Jump Start

From: Crest of a Knave, Year: 1987
Genre: Progressive Rock/Hard Rock

It feels good to bring this long day to a close; I guess I should make my pick before I call it a day.
Anyway, I heard this song when I was on the road; I thought it would be an excellent pick for today. While it's one of their heavier songs off the album, it also has its lighter, acoustical aspects as well. One of the best parts of the song for me personally is Ian Anderson and Martin Barre's flute and guitar solo; the softer flute contrasts, but also blends quite nicely with the blazing guitar.

Watch the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Chet Atkins - Trambone

My song pick two years ago today: John Denver - Wildflower in a Mason Jar

My song pick three years ago today: Jethro Tull - Locomotive Breath

My song pick four years ago today: Rammstein - Spieluhr

+

1644 Stratovarius - Wings of Tomorrow

2012-02-11T13:47:00.000-08:00

1644 Stratovarius - Wings of Tomorrow

From: Dreamspace, Year: 1994
Genre: Power Metal/Progressive Metal

Coincidentally today's pick number, 1644, is also the birth year of the famous master luthier Antonio Stradivari, who is probably better known by the Latinized version of his name: Stradivarius, which is also how people refer to the instruments he created.
I was going to choose a violin piece for today, but I happened to remember this aptly named Finnish Metal band that derived their name from the master instrument maker; I thought this song from the band would make an excellent pick for today anyway. They are yet another band that I thought for sure I had picked at some time, but hadn't.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Earth, Wind & Fire - Serpentine Fire

My song pick two years ago today: Manuel de Falla - Danza Del Terror (Dance of Terror)

My song pick three years ago today: Dire Straits - Lady Writer

My song pick four years ago today: Rammstein - Zerstören

+

1643 Earth, Wind & Fire - Fantasy

2012-02-10T08:24:00.000-08:00

1643 Earth, Wind & Fire - Fantasy

From: All 'n All, Year: 1977
Genre: R&B/Disco

I had this rather catchy tune on my mind this morning and thought I'd make it my pick.
I really like the intro and how much it contrasts with the rest of the song, which is somewhat light with very tight harmonies.

Hear the studio version on YouTube.
Watch a live performance of the song circa '88 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Miles Davis - Freddie Freeloader

My song pick two years ago today: Django Reinhardt & Stephane Grappelli (Quintette du Hot Club de France) - Liza (All the Clouds'll Roll Away)

My song pick three years ago today: Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble - Little Wing

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Said She Was A Dancer

+

1641-2 Quasar - Fanfare/Seeing Stars

2012-02-09T08:28:00.000-08:00

1641-2 Quasar - Fanfare/Seeing Stars

From: Fire in the Sky, Year: 1981
Genre: Progressive Rock

It still amazes me how every now and then I remember bands that I like and should've picked a song from at some time in the last four years of doing this blog. Maybe I should try to do a theme week covering bands that I like and haven't picked yet.
Anyway, for those who haven't heard of the band, they are what some refer to as part of 'the second wave' of Progressive Rock bands, or 'Neo-Progressive Rock,' which are essentially Progressive Rock bands that got their start right around 1980. One of the main aspects that bands of this ilk, including Quasar, incorporated were the new ideas and sounds that were coming out of genres such as New Wave. To me, on this song in particular they sound a lot like a mix between the sounds of Styx and Electric Light Orchestra with maybe some 'Bowie thrown in for good measure. Fanfare, which is the intro/overture of the album, contains a lot Jazz Fusion influence and then leads directly into the more laid back and melodic Seeing Stars. Hearing Quasar again after all of these years has really brought back some memories.

Hear the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Waylander - A Hero's Lament

My song pick two years ago today: Queen - Seaside Rendezvous

My song pick three years ago today: Warren Zevon - Werewolves of London

My song pick four years ago today: Band of Horses - Is There A Ghost?

+

1640 The Beatles - In My Life

2012-02-08T10:32:00.000-08:00

1640 The Beatles - In My Life

From: Rubber Soul, Year: 1965
Genre: Pop/Rock

I thought for sure that I had chosen this, one of my favourite tracks from the band sometime in the past, but apparently not.
Even though it is crammed into a radio-friendly 2 and a half minutes, it contains just as many interesting musical ideas as some song twice or three times its length. I guess it's kind of what I've heard referred to as a "transistor glamour," i.e. something that contains everything that's needed, but is contained in a small, compact package.
Anyway, although I like the entire piece, my favourite part has to be the sped-up piano solo that was intentionally written to sound in the style of J.S. Bach.

Hear In My Life on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Fairport Convention - She Moves Through the Fair

My song pick two years ago today: Uriah Heep - Gypsy

My song pick three years ago today: T-Rex - Bang a Gong (Get it On)

My song pick four years ago today: Savatage - Devastation

+

1639 Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) - Rock Is My Life, and This Is My Song

2012-02-07T08:15:00.000-08:00

1639 Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) - Rock Is My Life, and This Is My Song

From: Not Fragile, Year: 1974
Genre: Hard Rock

It felt like a perfect day for some of BTO's brand of riff based Canadian Hard Rock. This is one of their songs that features a lighter sound in the verses along with exquisite clean guitar and Randy Bachman singing lead. However in the chorus they kick in with their full signature Hard Rock and C.F. Turner joins in on vocals to give it more grit, which provides a nice hook.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.
Here is a live performance from a couple of years ago on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Genesis - Watcher of the Skies

My song pick two years ago today: Jim Croce - These Dreams

My song pick three years ago today: Alice Cooper - No More Mr. Nice Guy

My song pick four years ago today: Savatage - Tonight He Grins Again

+

1638 Fairport Convention - Dawn

2012-02-06T09:56:00.000-08:00

1638 Fairport Convention - Dawn

From: Rising for the Moon, Year: 1975
Genre: Folk Rock/Rock

For some reason I just felt like listening to some Fairport this morning. I noticed that I hadn't chosen a song off of their Rising for the Moon album yet, so I went ahead and picked this one, which is one of my favourites. It's quite a beautiful and dynamic song; they do a good job transitioning between the softer and delicate sound and kicking in with the harder sound when needed.
While this one's not one of their adaptations of a traditional tune, it contains some aspects from song of that type. This was also the last Fairport album to feature the incomparable Sandy Denny, of course she was amazing as ever.

Hear Dawn on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Jethro Tull - Alive and Well and Living In

My song pick two years ago today: .38 Special - Chain Lightnin'

My song pick three years ago today: Cream - Swlabr

My song pick four years ago today: Three Dog Night - Celebrate

+

1637 The Drifters - Under the Boardwalk

2012-02-05T22:23:00.000-08:00

1637 The Drifters - Under the Boardwalk

From: Under the Boardwalk (Single), Year: 1964
Genre: Soul/Pop/Doo-Wop

For most of the day I've had this rather upbeat and hooky song running through my mind. Since I really like it and the song's overall relaxing feeling fit today I thought I'd pick it. I love the whole Latin flavoured Doo-Wop and that laid back rhythm; it's such a cool track.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.
Here is an alternate studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Yoko Takahashi - Zankoku na Tenshi no These (A Cruel Angel's Thesis)

My song pick two years ago today: Aphrodite's Child - Hic et Nunc

My song pick three years ago today: Elton John - All The Girls Love Alice

My song pick four years ago today: Rush - The Body Electric

+

1636 The Animals - House of the Rising Sun

2012-02-04T14:01:00.001-08:00

1636 The Animals - House of the Rising Sun

From: The Animals. Year: 1964
Genre: Rock/Blues Rock/Folk Rock

Well, between spending some quality time with my 5 year old son and getting some writing done I figured I would make my song pick today and bring my theme week to a close as well.
This often-covered traditional song is most likely The Animals' most popular and one of my favourites from the band. Even though they had many other hits to their name, it's still the song you would first think of when you think of the band.
I've loved their version since I first heard it long ago; From what I understand they actually got their inspiration from Bob Dylan's version, which was recorded a couple of years earlier. Bob Dylan's version can be found here on YouTube.

Watch a music video clip on YouTube.

Anyway, if anyone's interested, I guess I should reveal what my theme week was: essentially this theme week had to do with the meter (the beat) of the songs I picked; picking a song with one more beat in its meter each day:
The 1st song picked has essentially no meter.
The 2nd song picked in the second movement uses the 1/1 meter.
The 3rd song picked in the third movement uses the 2/4 meter.
The 4th song picked used the 3/4 meter.
The 5th song picked used the 4/4 meter.
The 6th song picked used the 5/4 meter.
And the 7th pick, (today's song), used the 6/8 meter.
So, I'm calling this theme week "Adding another beat a day."

My song pick a year ago today: Wild Turkey - Sentinel

My song pick two years ago today: KISS - She

My song pick three years ago today: Hawkwind - Assault and Battery/The Golden Void

My song pick four years ago today: Bonnie Tyler - Total Eclipse of the Heart

+

1635 Primus - Here Come the Bastards

2012-02-03T08:37:00.000-08:00

1635 Primus - Here Come the Bastards

From: Sailing the Seas of Cheese, Year: 1991
Genre: Hard Rock/Alternative Rock/Funk

I was thinking about picking another song today, but I remembered that I was in the midst of a theme week.
Anyway, this is my sixth pick in my mystery theme week and I knew this one would fit perfectly, plus today feels like a good day for some Primus.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.
Here is a recent live performance on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Ringo Starr - It Don't Come Easy

My song pick two years ago today: Molly Hatchet - Fall of the Peacemakers

My song pick three years ago today: Don Mclean - American Pie

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Later, That Same Evening

+

1634 Led Zeppelin - Rock and Roll

2012-02-02T08:19:00.000-08:00

1634 Led Zeppelin - Rock and Roll

From: Led Zeppelin IV (ZoSo), Year: 1971
Genre: Hard Rock/Rock 'N Roll

I'm on to day five of my mystery theme week and for today's pick I felt like listening to some Led Zeppelin.
Only in recent years have I been able to truly enjoy much of Led Zeppelin's music; in the past I have felt like they were being forced down my throat, and thus it made me grow to dislike the band more than a bit. However, since I've not listened radio that much anymore I've slowly been getting into the band and their music.
One of the most interesting aspects that I've found about them is that they were able to dabble in and across a few Rock genres and not pay the price of doing so like many others have. I mean, hell they were one of the bands that wrote Progressive Hard Rock and it was eaten up and adored to this day by the mainstream and pop culture, which doesn't happen that often if at all.
Anyway, even when I didn't really care for the band I always loved the rawness and energy that this song exuded. That awesome drum into literally grabs the listener by the ears and then that basic and raw Hard Rock 12-bar Blues takes over and takes the listener the rest of the way.

Hear Rock and Roll on YouTube.
Here is a live performance circa '73 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Rush - Xanadu

My song pick two years ago today: Iron Maiden - Powerslave

My song pick three years ago today: George Frideric Handel - Every Valley Shall Be Exalted

My song pick four years ago today: Kohei Tanaka - Kline's Dream

+

1633 The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Manic Depression

2012-02-01T08:29:00.000-08:00

1633 The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Manic Depression

From: Are You Experienced, Year: 1967
Genre: Hard Rock/Psychedelic Rock/Blues Rock

I'm on to my fourth pick of my mystery theme week.
This is a rather interesting and quite a fun song to play along with. I absolutely love how it was constructed; while on the surface it sounds and feels a bit disjointed, it fits together very nicely to make a truly awesome song.

Hear Manic Depression on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Jon Oliva's Pain - Through the Eyes of the King

My song pick two years ago today: Nora Bayes - The Japanese Sandman

My song pick three years ago today: Queen - We Will Rock You/We Are the Champions

My song pick four years ago today: The Little River Band - Reminiscing

+

1632 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - K.331 - Piano Sonata No. 11

2012-01-31T11:24:00.000-08:00

1632 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - K.331 - Piano Sonata No. 11

K.331, Year: 1781-3
Genre: Classical Period/classical

For the third day of my mystery theme week I felt like picking this one.
Most will instantly recognize most of the melodies throughout this famous piece; the melody of the third movement, Rondó Alla Turca: Allegretto, in particular should ring a bell to almost everyone alive or dead. While its an excellent piece of music in so many ways, as with most music from the Classical Period, it has a tendency to fade into the background and easily becomes 'wallpaper music.'

Here is the first movement: Andante Grazioso on YouTube.
Here is the second movement: Menuetto on YouTube.
Here is the third movement: Rondó Alla Turca: Allegretto on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: The Allman Brothers Band - Little Martha

My song pick two years ago today: Steve Vai - #?@! Yourself

My song pick three years ago today: The Who - I'm Free

My song pick four years ago today: The Yardbirds - Heart Full of Soul

+

1631 Alexander Porfiryevich Borodin - Symphony No.2 in B-Minor

2012-01-30T09:01:00.000-08:00

1631 Alexander Porfiryevich Borodin - Symphony No.2 in B-Minor

Year: 1878

Genre: Romantic Period/classical

This is my second pick of my mystery theme week:
This is one of my personal favourite pieces from the pen of Alexander Borodin. Out of 'The Five' he composed a lot of the I like the most; personally Mussorgsky wrote a lot I like as well and at times it's a toss up between the two.
Anyway, this in my opinion is a 'musician's piece' of music, however with its beauty and sheer presence it's definitely a listener's song as well; you can easily get engrossed in both the feeling and complexities throughout. I absolutely love to get lost in this amazing piece of music; truly beautiful.

Here is the first movement: Allegro on YouTube.
Here is the second movement: Scherzo. Prestissimo-Allegretto on YouTube.
Here is the third movement: Andante on YouTube.
Here is the fourth movement: Finale. Allegro on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Jon Oliva's Pain - Winter Haven

My song pick two years ago today: KoKo Taylor - That's Why I'm Crying

My song pick three years ago today: Blue Öyster Cult - Veteran of the Psychic Wars

My song pick four years ago today: Molly Hatchet - Bounty Hunter

+

1630 Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo de Silos - Media Vita in Morte Sumus

2012-01-29T22:15:00.000-08:00

1630 Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo de Silos - Media Vita in Morte Sumus

From: Chant, Year: 1973
Genre: Gregorian Chant

I'm embarking on a theme week, however I thought it would be fun to wait until Saturday's pick to reveal what my theme is; in the mean time anyone is welcome to make guesses as to what it is along the way.
Okay, on to today's song pick:
I remember back in the '90s this album became quite popular and could be heard all over the place. If memory serves me right, that new found popularity of Chant happened to spawn some parody albums; one in particular, I believe, was called: Grunt. As you can probably guess, it was composed of chants spoken in Pig-Latin. Since it became popular 20 years from the initial recording I wouldn't be too surprised if it makes another resurgence within a few years or so.
Anyway, as with most of the tracks on the album, this one makes excellent 'wallpaper music' and is also nice to listen closely to as well.

Here is a recording on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Stahlhammer - Der Zerbrochene Traum

My song pick two years ago today: Charles Gounod - Funeral March of a Marionette

My song pick three years ago today: Lynyrd Skynyrd - Free Bird

My song pick four years ago today: Gordon Lightfoot - If You Could Read My Mind

+

1629 Blind Faith - Had to Cry Today

2012-01-28T11:34:00.000-08:00

1629 Blind Faith - Had to Cry Today

From: Blind Faith, Year: 1969
Genre: Blues Rock

I'm having one of those days and this song from the very bright and short-lived 'supergroup' Blind Faith felt good to listen to this morning. While I'm not really in the mood to go on much about things today, I will say that I do like this song a lot.

Hear Had to Cry Today on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Jethro Tull - By Kind Permission Of

My song pick two years ago today: Peter Gabriel - Down To Earth

My song pick three years ago today: Edgar Winter Group - Free Ride

My song pick four years ago today: Janis Joplin - Me and Bobby McGee

+

1628 Miles Davis - Pharaoh's Dance

2012-01-27T10:07:00.000-08:00

1628 Miles Davis - Pharaoh's Dance

From: Bitches Brew, Year: 1970
Genre: Jazz Fusion/Jazz

I was thinking about some of the songs off of this album this morning and figured I would pick one of them. This is one of Miles' more experimental albums, which contained sounds you'd continue to hear in the coming decades in Jazz.
On this song, which was written by master keyboardist Joe Zawinul, contains an amazing lineup of musicians and a real interesting arrangement as well: Miles Davis, of course, (trumpet), Joe Zawinul (left piano), Chick Corea (right piano), Larry Young (mid piano), Lenny White (left drums), Jack DeJohnette (Right Drums), John McLaughlin (guitar), Wayne Shorter (soprano saxophone), Bernie Maupin (bass clarinet), Dave Holland (double bass), Harvey Brooks (electric bass), Don Alias (congas), and Juma Santos (shaker).
While Miles Davis' music and this album in particular isn't everyone's cup of tea, he and his music has influenced not only Jazz, but in one way or another most music since.

Hear the full 20 minutes song on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Led Zeppelin - Ten Years Gone

My song pick two years ago today: John Lennon - How Do You Sleep?

My song pick three years ago today: The Who - Getting in Tune

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Beastie

+

1627 Queensrÿche - Eyes of a Stranger

2012-01-26T08:13:00.000-08:00

1627 Queensrÿche - Eyes of a Stranger

From: Operation: Mindcrime, Year: 1988
Genre: Progressive Metal

For some reason I had the urge to listen to Operation: Mindcrime last night and this morning and I thought I'd pick a track off of the album today as well.
Eyes of a Stranger is the last song on this epic concept album and really does an awesome job of wrapping up the story. This song deals with the main character, Nikki, remembering all that has happened and what he's done.
I love how they make use of minor chords to set and compliment the mood in this one. As always, Geoff Tate's vocals are one of the main highlights; he adds a lot of emotion with his powerful vocals.

Hear Eyes of a Stranger on YouTube.
Here is the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Bad Company - Holy Water

My song pick two years ago today: Azteca - Some Day We'll Get By

My song pick three years ago today: Elmer Bernstein - The Magnificent Seven (Theme)

My song pick four years ago today: Rush - Jacob's Ladder

+

1626 John Dowland - In Darkness We Dwell

2012-01-25T08:46:00.000-08:00

1626 John Dowland - In Darkness We Dwell

Year: 1610
Genre: Late Renaissance Period/Early Baroque Period/classical

It appears that I've gotten to the point in my song picks where the pick number matches dates in musical history. As you might or might not know, master composer and lutenist John Dowland died in February of the year 1626, so I though I would pick another one of my favourite songs from his pen today.
This very beautiful piece of music that is rather dark and melancholy, but pretty all the same. It was first published in 1610, which would put it right at the point where the Renaissance Period was giving way to the Baroque Period, so it contains some aspects of both. I've always found it odd how we look back hundreds of years on and make these divisions based on the popular 'musical ideas' that permeated compositions through those years when in reality there was a lot of overlap as music evolved from one form to another.

Here is an excellent performance of the piece by Steven Rickards and Dorothy Linell on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Blue Öyster Cult - I Love the Night

My song pick two years ago today: The Byrds - Eight Miles High

My song pick three years ago today: Wings - Band on the Run

My song pick four years ago today: Faith No More - Woodpecker From Mars

+

1625 Dire Straits - Sultans of Swing

2012-01-24T09:29:00.000-08:00

1625 Dire Straits - Sultans of Swing

From: Dire Straits, Year: 1978
Genre: Rock

I felt like listening to some Dire Straits this morning; I thought for sure that I'd picked this song in particular before, but apparently I didn't. I can't believe that I've only twice picked a song from Dire Straits; this was due to Warner Brothers getting pissy and taking down all of their songs off of YouTube a few years back. In fact any band that was on the Warner label was really difficult to find on there not too long ago; only now can you find some of it on YouTube. Because of this I wouldn't have been unable to post a YouTube link with the song, which is something I don't like doing. To say the least I'm glad that in the end Warner calmed back down and accepted YouTube's money.
Anyway, without a doubt this is the Dire Straits song I've heard the most over the years. My dad absolutely loves it; he bought the record for this song alone and would play it over and over again; I can only think of a few times that he let it go to another song before re-cuing the needle. Even with how much I've heard it I never grew to dislike the song because of my overexposure to it, which normally happens even with songs I like a lot.
This one is probably most memorable for Mark Knopfler's guitar playing and his extended solo. What always stuck me most about his playing style was how clean he keeps his sound and the precision at which he plays the instrument. Combine that with how technical his lines can be and the fact that he's the lead singer as well; you can see why he is considered by most, especially guitar players, as one of the greats.

Hear Sultans of Swing on YouTube.
Here is an excellent 11 minute live version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Rammstein - Der Meister

My song pick two years ago today: Jethro Tull - Nothing to Say

My song pick three years ago today: Bad Company - Seagull

My song pick four years ago today: Diana Ross - Do You Know Where You're Going To? (The theme from 'Mahogany')

+

1624 The Moody Blues - Go Now

2012-01-23T11:11:00.000-08:00

1624 The Moody Blues - Go Now

From: The Magnificent Moodies, Year: 1965
Genre: Rock/R&B

I was having trouble thinking of a song for my pick today. For no reason I started listening to The Moody Blues and realized that I hadn't picked this song yet, which was one of their first hits and predated Justin Heyward. It was actually a cover of a song written by Larry Banks and Milton Bennett; it was first recorded by Larry Banks' wife Bessie Banks a year before The Moody Blues picked it up.
The band had more of a Pop/Beat feel to it at this time in contrast to their more popular Symphonic/Progressive material they're known for. It's a rather bluesy and soulful track that is most notably carried by a well-defined 3/4 waltz beat, which makes it very recognizable.

Hear Go Now on YouTube.
Watch a vintage television performance of the song on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Queen - 39

My song pick two years ago today: Hawkwind - Standing at the Edge

My song pick three years ago today: Rush - Nocturne

My song pick four years ago today: Head East - Never Been Any Reason

+

1623 Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) - Julie Don't Live Here

2012-01-22T21:57:00.000-08:00

1623 Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) - Julie Don't Live Here

From: Time [Remastered], Year: 1981
Genre: Electronic Rock/Pop

While out and about driving in the slop this evening this track from my favourite ELO record came on and I thought it would make a nice pick for this Sunday evening.
This song was actually not originally included on the Time album and was rather a b-side to one of the singles off of the record: Twilight. However, on the remaster version it was included along with two other tracks.
With it not originally being part of the album I am a bit uncertain as to if it was part of the time traveler story that is told throughout the songs on the album. With the subject matter of the song about a man looking up the residence of a what seems to be an old girlfriend only to find out that she no longer lives there, it definitely would fit the story, especially early on in the album. I believe it would fit best perhaps before or after Yours Truly, 2095, being that the song was about him sending a message to a lover living over 100 years in the past, perhaps the "Julie" mentioned in this song. This would be supported by the lyrics: "Last night I saw your face in the window," but in the chorus it states: "Julie don't live here anymore, She moved away many years before." Whatever the case I personally like to believe that it does fit in the story.
This song has more of a Pop flavour than it's counterparts, which might have been the reason it was omitted on the original versions of Time, but still has that ELO sound and if you like the band you should like this one.

Here is a video with the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Fire Bomber (Humming Bird) - My Soul For You

My song pick two years ago today: Hawkwind - D-Rider

My song pick three years ago today: Duran Duran - Rio

My song pick four years ago today: Rare Earth - (I Know) I'm Losing You

+

1622 The Beatles - Back in the U.S.S.R.

2012-01-21T10:47:00.000-08:00

1622 The Beatles - Back in the U.S.S.R.

From: The Beatles "White Album," Year: 1968
Genre: Pop/Rock 'N Roll

The other day I was forced to slog through nearly a foot of snow on unplowed roads, which was fun. This song just happened to be playing on the radio at the time and acted as an excellent fun soundtrack for all of the wheel-spinning and white-knuckle driving.
I've never actually been a fan of this somewhat cliché-riddled song; there are many other songs from their catalogue that I like more, but it still is a rather nice up-tempo rocker. From what I've read Ringo Starr didn't appear on the recording of the song; it was a product of heavy studio overdub, which was a staple for the band at that time.

Hear Back in the U.S.S.R. on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Tarot - Pilot of All Dreams

My song pick two years ago today: Muse - Knights of Cydonia

My song pick three years ago today: Nightwish - 10th Man Down

My song pick four years ago today: Jaco Pastorius - Donna Lee

+

1621 The Ventures - Beethoven's Sonata in C#-Minor

2012-01-20T08:44:00.000-08:00

1621 The Ventures - Beethoven's Sonata in C#-Minor

From: Joy: The Ventures Play the Classics, Year: 1972
Genre: Progressive Rock/Surf Rock

You probably notice that my blog looks a lot different. It has been a while, about 10 months since the last time I redesigned it and have been meaning to update its look again for a couple of months now. I still haven't settled on a design yet and might change it again; we'll have to see if it still works for me in the coming weeks.
Anyway, on to my song pick:

I really have been meaning to choose a track from this album for a very long time. Like some other bands from around that time were doing, this was The Ventures foray into making rocked out arrangements of classical music. This track is their Rock adaptation of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata (Op. 27, No.2). I love how they used the horns and bass guitar for the big sounding punctual stabs that accompany the arpeggiated triplets played on the keyboards and other lead instruments.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Stuart Hamm - Count Zero

My song pick two years ago today: Louis Armstrong - La Vie en Rose

My song pick three years ago today: The Thermals - No Culture Icons

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Crossfire

+

1620 Pearl Jam - Light Years

2012-01-19T08:12:00.000-08:00

1620 Pearl Jam - Light Years

From: Binaural, Year: 2000
Genre: Rock/Alternative Rock

For a while now I've been going back over the bands that I heard a lot during the late '80's into the '90's. Back then I really liked all of the new styles of music coming out and personally I viewed it as music evolving, which is always a wonderful thing. However, the one problem I had wasn't really with the music or the musicians at all, but rather the 'you're with us or against us' culture that permeated that musical scene. I remember that it seemed like one of the central ideas of the Alternative/Grunge scene was to destroy and sew salt on the ground so to speak of the previous types of music they replaced in the mainstream; I had a real difficult time fitting into that mindset. By no means am I defending the corporate Glam thing that it replaced; I totally agree that it was played out and the time to move on was long overdue. However, for me, whenever I feel like I'm being led by my nose to either like or especially hate something I always grow resistant to it.
Anyway, for about the last ten years or so I've been looking up some of the bands from back then and the material they've recorded since. I've always liked Pearl Jam; they were a band from that scene that I'd actually continued to follow more than most. Their Binaural album has become one of my favourites from their catalogue and, of course, this is one of my favs off that album.

Hear Light Years on YouTube.
Watch a live performance circa '00 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Band of Horses - Factory

My song pick two years ago today: Rush - Freewill

My song pick three years ago today: R.E.M. - Stand

My song pick four years ago today: Queen - Killer Queen

+

1619 Ludwig Van Beethoven - Op. 31 No. 2 - Piano Sonata No. 17 in D minor "Tempest"

2012-01-18T08:48:00.000-08:00

1619 Ludwig Van Beethoven - Op. 31 No. 2 - Piano Sonata No. 17 in D minor "Tempest"

Opus 31 No. 2, Year: 1802-1803
Genre: Classical Period/classical

Being that it's a crazy day out there on the interweb, I decided I would pick a nice piece of Classic music instead of the stuff from the last 80 or so years like I normally would. Just like his other piano music, this one is a truly beautiful piece of music.

If no one noticed a great deal of popular websites have put up a self-imposed blackout here in the U.S. in protest of two bills that are currently going through the process in congress. You can find out the particulars of the SOPA and PIPA laws for yourself on Wikipedia. I almost joined them in their protest by blacking out my blog, but really, only a few regular readers would miss it, so I figured if I did it, it would just seem overtly pretentious. That being said, I do fully support the actions of those sites in their opposition of these two poorly written and potentially devastating pieces of legislation.

Here is a live performance of the piece performed by Wilhelm Kempff:
Here is part one on YouTube.
Here is part two on YouTube.
Here is part three on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: David Bowie - Diamond Dogs

My song pick two years ago today: Sky - Toccata

My song pick three years ago today: Journey - Who's Crying Now

My song pick four years ago today: Billy Joel - Only the Good Die Young

+

1618 Black 47 - Different Drummer

2012-01-17T08:28:00.000-08:00

1618 Black 47 - Different Drummer

From: Home of the Brave, Year: 1994
Genre: Celtic Rock/Rock

I was in the mood for some Black 47 this morning; this rather raucous yet upbeat track seem to fit my mood the best.
As with all of their music this one contains many different musical styles and influences, but their Punk influence is very prominent in this one. I absolutely love the way they tell the story contained in the song in a humorous way and make the chorus a singalong for the audience as if you were in a pub listening to them live.

Hear a live recording circa '99 on YouTube.
Watch a live performance from a couple of years ago on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Band of Horses - The First Song

My song pick two years ago today: Forest - A Glade Somewhere

My song pick three years ago today: Weather Report - Teen Town

My song pick four years ago today: Johann Sebastian Bach - BWV 1068 - Orchestral Suite No.3 in D-Major, "Air"

+

1617 Dion - Abraham, Martin and John

2012-01-16T10:44:00.000-08:00

1617 Dion - Abraham, Martin and John

From: Abraham, Martin and John, Year: 2007 (1968)
Genre: Pop/Folk Rock

I noticed that today happened to be the government/banker holiday Martin Luther King Jr. day. It snuck up on me this year; I haven't purchased a 2012 calendar yet, yeah I'm procrastinating. When I happened to notice what day it was this track started playing in my mind and I thought it would be a good pick for the occasion.
It seemed as if there was always music playing in our house when I was really young and I remember back when I was, oh about 4 years old, I heard this one was playing on the radio, a tape, or something. I remember asking my mom and dad what this song was about and got an impromptu lesson in recent history. Even though I was only around a decade removed from that time, it seemed like a complete other era for me; I guess that's really what holidays like this are for.
Anyway, for those unaware of this song, it's about four of the great leaders of social change in American history who met their demise from an assassin's bullet: President Abraham Lincoln, President John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Robert F. Kennedy. It was written by Dick Holler in '68 in response to the recent assassinations of both King and R.F.K.
I've always loved the bass guitar on this track, which acts as the backbone of the song, and the lilting in Dion's vocals, which adds a lot of emotion to an already emotional subject.

Here is the original studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Joachim Witt - Wem Gehört Das Sternenlicht

My song pick two years ago today: Cab Calloway & The Harlemaniacs - The Reefer Man

My song pick three years ago today: Diana Ross and the Supremes - Reflections

My song pick four years ago today: Quarterflash - Harden my Heart

+

1616 Northern Kings - Wanted Dead or Alive

2012-01-15T20:15:00.000-08:00

1616 Northern Kings - Wanted Dead or Alive

From: Rethroned, Year: 2008
Genre: Metal

For quite some time I was in a band that happened to cover a lot of Bon Jovi, which caused me to get a bit tired of hearing them and of course having a wife that loves the band only helped to exacerbate the problem. I still do like the band and their music and am finally getting past that lethargy.
Anyway, when I heard this Power Metal cover of this Bon Jovi hit song by the Finnish super group Northern Kings it was like a breath of fresh air blew into it and made it fresh to me again. It has a nice 80's Iron Maiden brand of Metal feel to it; Marco Hietala does an awesome job on the vocals.

Here the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Jethro Tull - Bungle in the Jungle

My song pick two years ago today: Edvard Grieg - Op. 54, No.3 - The March of the Trolls (Troldtog)

My song pick three years ago today: Rob Zombie - Dragula

My song pick four years ago today: Tears for Fears - Mad World

+

1615 The Scorpions - The Good Die Young

2012-01-14T14:49:00.000-08:00

1615 The Scorpions - The Good Die Young

From: Sting in the Tail, Year: 2010
Genre: Hard Rock/Metal

On the radio last night they were playing some songs from the Scorpions newer albums; it got me into the mood to listen to them again, so I decided to choose one of my favourites off of their most recent release.
It is a rather pretty anthem of a song that sounds similar to that of their material from the '80's-'90's. I recently discovered that they also recorded a version of the song that featured Tarja Turunen, who is the former lead singer of Nightwish, in a duet with Klaus Meine.

Hear The Good Die Young on YouTube.
Hear the version that features a duet between Klaus Meine and Tarja Turunen on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Megadeth - Elysian Fields

My song pick two years ago today: Django Reinhardt & Stephane Grappelli (Quintette du Hot Club de France) feat. Freddy Taylor - Nagasaki

My song pick three years ago today: Miles Davis - Flamenco Sketches

My song pick four years ago today: The Kinks - Waterloo Sunset

+

1614 Jamiroquai - Cosmic Girl

2012-01-13T08:33:00.000-08:00

1614 Jamiroquai - Cosmic Girl

From: Traveling Without Moving, Year: 1997
Genre: Funk/Disco/Acid Jazz

I've known of the existence of Jamiroquai for a long while, but until recently have never taken the time to look up any of their songs. It's another case where I believe I've actually heard the band's music, but didn't know who performed it. I mostly learned about the band from seeing their lead singer, Jay Kay, all over different programs on the BBC.
For those unfamiliar with the band, they are what is known as an Acid Jazz/Funk/Dance Hall band. I haven't picked a song from a band that is considered part of the Acid Jazz genre yet, so I figured I would snag the opportunity.
Anyhow, Acid Jazz is one of the Jazz genres where it, just like with Jazz Fusion, gets the snub from 'Jazz purists' who don't look on it as an actual form of Jazz. To best describe it, it takes a lot of the ides and concepts found in Jazz, like the loping eighth note and the swinging feel, then mixes it with Electronic, Disco, Funk, and/or other Jazz styles and the higher tempo 2/4 dance club beat.
One of these days I should do a theme that covers all of the different genres of Jazz, that would be fun.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.
Here is the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Ozzy Osbourne - Mama, I'm Coming Home

My song pick two years ago today: Adam Gilberti - Dragon's First Flight

My song pick three years ago today: Zakk Wylde - Farm Fiddlin'

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Hunting Girl

+

1613 Metallica - The Day That Never Comes

2012-01-12T08:37:00.000-08:00

1613 Metallica - The Day That Never Comes

From: Death Magnetic, Year: 2008
Genre: Metal/Thrash Metal

I've been really liking Metallica's newest album and have been listening to it a lot recently. Since it's been a while since I last picked a Metallica song I figured I would add one today.
While I've never considered myself a die hard fan of the band, there's no denying their abilities as musicians or songwriters. To tell the truth I like their music, but ever since Metallica first came on the scene I was seriously turned off by the stuck-up/egotistical attitudes of the main two members of the group. Personally, that's one of the main turnoffs for me with any band, sometimes even to the point where I'll all but quit listening to a band's music if they start copping an attitude. That being said, like I stated before, Metallica's music is excellent and I like much of it.
Anyway, while this song is not as heavy as a lot of their material I like, I absolutely love the overall melodiousness of the track; I especially love Kirk Hammett's awesome guitar solo.

Watch the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Rammstein, featuring Carmen Zapata - Te Quiero Puta!

My song pick two years ago today: Traveling Wilburys - End of the Line

My song pick three years ago today: The Doors - Love Her Madly

My song pick four years ago today: Rod Stewart - Young Turks (Young Hearts Be Free)

+

1612 Savatage - Holocaust

2012-01-11T08:24:00.000-08:00

1612 Savatage - Holocaust

From: Sirens, Year: 1983
Genre: Heavy Metal

I had Savatage on my mind this morning and, if I'm not mistaken, I haven't chosen a song off of their debut album Sirens.
With this being from their early period, the music is decidedly heavier and bit more in your face than from their more popular Progressive/Symphonic Metal material that the Trans-Siberian Orchestra was born out of.
Anyway, this is a song written about the world coming to an end in the year 2000. Yeah, that was 12 years ago and I believe that they weren't the only ones who got that one wrong, or maybe they got it right and the world did end in 2000 and no one noticed....

Hear Holocaust on YouTube.
Watch a rare live performance of the song circa '81 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: The United States of America - The Garden of Earthly Delights

My song pick two years ago today: Buddy Holley & the Crickets - Oh Boy!

My song pick three years ago today: Oasis - Champagne Supernova

My song pick four years ago today: John Denver - Paradise

+

1611 Carmen - High Time

2012-01-10T08:38:00.000-08:00

1611 Carmen - High Time

From: The Gypsies, Year: 1976
Genre: Progressive Rock

I've been meaning to pick a song from this band for a long time now; I believe that they've been best described as an "avant-garde Flamenco-Rock band." They are a very interesting sounding band being with their fusion of Anglo-American Rock and Flamenco; the overall sound is quite melodic.
This one hails from their 'swan song' album The Gypsies and is not really as much representative of their overall sound, but I like it a lot.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Stahlhammer - Strom Der Zeit

My song pick two years ago today: Ally Kerr - The Sore Feet Song

My song pick three years ago today: Johnny Cash - Solitary Man

My song pick four years ago today: Two-Mix - White Reflection

+

1610 Stormwarrior - Foreign Shores

2012-01-09T09:08:00.000-08:00

1610 Stormwarrior - Foreign Shores

From: Northern Rage, Year: 2004
Genre: Metal/Viking Metal

Having some difficulties getting motivated for the rest of my day, so I put some Metal on to get my blood moving. For no reason whatsoever I started listening to Stormwarrior's Northern Rage album and I figured I'd make one of the songs my pick for today.
Stormwarrior is one of the newer bands that remind me a lot of late '70s British Heavy Metal, Iron Maiden in particular.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Larry Greene - Through the Fire

My song pick two years ago today: Puhdys - Geh Dem Wind Nicht Aus Dem Wege

My song pick three years ago today: Journey - Lights

My song pick four years ago today: Rush - Anthem

+

1609 Band of Horses - Compliments

2012-01-08T17:48:00.000-08:00

1609 Band of Horses - Compliments

From: Infinite Arms, Year: 2010
Genre: Rock/Indie

Thought I would try to get my pick in a bit earlier today; it's been a busy day.
Anyhow, I felt like listening to some Band of Horses; I've listened to their first two albums a bit much and decided to give their newest album another listen. It's nice to be able to listen to new material even if, in my opinion, it's not as good as its predecessors.
This is one of the songs that popped out to me upon hearing it the first time; I like the nice bluesy groove that carries it along.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.
Here is a live performance from Farm Aid on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Hawkwind - Lord of Light

My song pick two years ago today: Karussell - Schattenkreuze

My song pick three years ago today: The Proclaimers - I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)

My song pick four years ago today: Arlo Guthrie - City of New Orleans

+

1608 Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble - Superstition

2012-01-07T22:38:00.000-08:00

1608 Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble - Superstition

From: Live Alive, Year: 1986
Genre: Blues/Rock

Ugh! I'm getting another late pick in; I guess it's better late than never.
Anyway, for the last couple of days I've had the urge to listen to Stevie Ray Vaughan; I thought it would be nice to add another one of his songs to my list.
This one is, of course, a cover, and an excellent one at that, of the masterpiece originally written by the incomparable Stevie Wonder, who was a big influence on his music. Stevie Wonder not only gave his blessing for him to do the cover, but also appeared in the music video as well.

Here is a vinyl recording on YouTube.
Here is the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Journey - To Play Some Music

My song pick two years ago today: Apocalyptica featuring Till Lindemann - Helden

My song pick three years ago today: James Gang - Funk 49

My song pick four years ago today: Midnight Oil - Blue Sky Mine

+

1607 Return to Forever - Dayride

2012-01-06T08:32:00.000-08:00

1607 Return to Forever - Dayride

From: No Mystery, Year: 1975
Genre: Jazz Fusion/Funk

It's the first Friday of the year, so I thought I would make a 'Funky Friday' for the occasion with this rather funky piece of Jazz Fusion. This song comes from the pen of legendary bassist Stanley Clarke; it would also make an appearance on his '78 Modern Man solo album.
It has a nice mixture of Jazz, Funk, and Rock with just a wee bit of a Latin flavor. As always, all of the band members do a superb job, but I especially love Chick Corea's synth keyboard playing throughout on this one.

Hear Dayride on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Blue Öyster Cult - Hot Rails to Hell

My song pick two years ago today: Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show - Cover of the Rolling Stone

My song pick three years ago today: Seals & Crofts - Summer Breeze

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Crazed Institution

+

1606 Boston - Foreplay/Long Time

2012-01-05T08:26:00.000-08:00

1606 Boston - Foreplay/Long Time

From: Boston, Year: 1976
Genre: Hard Rock/Progressive Rock

This is one of the songs that initially made me a fan of Boston; it's the longest track off of their debut album clocking in at just under 8 minutes total.
The instrumental Foreplay opening 'overture' section, which reminds me a lot of a Toccata, immediately grabs you by the ears and won't let go. The track then goes into the main Long Time section that is more of a straight-up Hard Rock, but still just as musical as the opening.

Hear Foreplay/Long Time on YouTube.
Watch a live performance circa '88 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Gerry Rafferty - Home and Dry

My song pick two years ago today: Johnny Cash - One Piece at a Time

My song pick three years ago today: Traffic - John Barleycorn

My song pick four years ago today: The Moody Blues - Forever Afternoon (Tuesday?), Time to Get Away.

+

1605 Jethro Tull - Crew Nights

2012-01-04T09:05:00.000-08:00

1605 Jethro Tull - Crew Nights

From: Nightcap, Year: 1993 (1981)
Genre: Hard Rock/Progressive Rock

After I saw that Frankie Big Face picked Jackson Browne's Load Out yesterday as one of his TWOsday picks this 'Tull song with a similar subject matter/theme started playing in my mind and wouldn't leave. Although, because I picked one of their songs a couple of days ago, let alone the amount of times the band has been featured on my blog I was a bit hesitant to pick it, but when a song I like is on my mind I always take it as a sign that I should pick it, so here it is.
I was first drawn to this track mostly for the usual excellent musicianship from the band and the way it was arranged. The song is definitely carried by its straight up and down, hard, driving drum beat, however, when they come to the instrumental section, like any good Prog/Rock band, they effortlessly speed up the tempo and switch it up to an odd 7 beat meter; they just as effortlessly go back to the original tempo and the straight, driving beat for the last verse.

Here is a fan video with the song on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: The Guess Who - These Eyes

My song pick two years ago today: Emerson, Lake & Palmer - Fanfare for the Common Man

My song pick three years ago today: The Kinks - Do It Again

My song pick four years ago today: The Guess Who - Hang On To Your Life

+

1604 Mr. Big - Take Cover

2012-01-03T08:38:00.000-08:00

1604 Mr. Big - Take Cover

From: Hey Man, Year: 1996
Genre: Hard Rock

I had absolutely no song in mind for my pick today, so I decided to spin my the wheel so to speak and came up with this excellent track off of Mr. Big's '96 Hey Man album.
This one is an excellent example of that classic sound and amazing musicianship that Mr. Big is known for. This is one of those songs where you get the best of both worlds in that while it's technical enough for the discerning musical ear, at the same time it's not lost to the ear of the casual listener either.

Here is the music video on YouTube.
Here is an excellent live performance circa '09 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Triumph - Magic Power

My song pick two years ago today: Nightwish - While Your Lips Are Still Red

My song pick three years ago today: The Rolling Stones - Mother's Little Helper

My song pick four years ago today: Billy Joel - Two Thousand Years

+

1603 Van der Graaf Generator - Whatever Would Robert Have Said?

2012-01-02T16:15:00.000-08:00

1603 Van der Graaf Generator - Whatever Would Robert Have Said?

From: The Least We Can Do Is Wave to Each Other, Year: 1970
Genre: Progressive Rock

I've been really digging this album for the last little bit ever since I first got a chance to hear it; this is one of my favourite tracks off of the album. This song really fits the definition of Progressive Rock to a tee; it actually reminds me a lot of earlier David Bowie, especially the vocals.
From what I understand the Robert they are referring to is supposedly Robert J. Van de Graaff, who was the inventor of the Van De Graaff Generator from which the band got its name.

Hear Whatever Would Robert Have Said on YouTube.
Here is a live performance/video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Steve Vai - Kill the Guy with the Ball/The God Eaters

My song pick two years ago today: Banchee - John Doe

My song pick three years ago today: Bob Dylan - Like A Rolling Stone

My song pick four years ago today: Queen - Don't Stop Me Now

+

1602 Jethro Tull - Last Man at the Party

2012-01-01T19:12:00.000-08:00

1602 Jethro Tull - Last Man at the Party

From: The Jethro Tull Christmas Album, Year: 2003
Genre: Progressive Rock/Folk Rock

Happy New Year!
I thought I would start this year of picks off with this rather fitting tune from Jethro Tull's Christmas Album. I've heard this song a few times over the last month while I played the album. It's about the only time of year I get to listen to it being that the majority of the songs are themed for Christmas and the other Holidays that take place around this time of year.
Anyway, this one has a very similar sound and feel to their Progressive Folk Rock style from the late '70s, which is one of the reasons I like this song in particular. On this track Ian Anderson describes a Holiday party and the drunken states of its attendees in a comedic way. However, the chorus is what made this song fitting for my pick on this first day of the New Year:

"So make yourselves jolly under mistletoe, holly and ivy.
Get to it – and be in good cheer.
And when it’s all over: pigs gone to clover –
Will the last man at the party wish me a happy New Year."

Hear Last Man at the Party on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Dan Fogelberg - Same Old Lang Syne

My song pick two years ago today: ABBA - Happy New Year

My song pick three years ago today: U2 - New Year's Day

My song pick four years ago today: Kiss - Shout It Out Loud

+

1601 The Alan Parsons Project - The Raven

2011-12-31T09:19:00.001-08:00

1601 The Alan Parsons Project - The Raven

From: Tales of Mystery and Imagination, Year: 1976
Genre: Progressive Rock

A few days ago I happened to hear this song on the radio. Since I like it and hadn't heard it for a bit; plus I haven't picked an APP song yet, I'm making it my last blog post/song pick of 2011.
As with the rest of the material on the album this song is based on the writings of Edgar Alan Poe, this one in particular is, of course, base on his poem on the song's namesake. It is mostly known for Leonard Whiting's vocals, which were run through a EMI Vocoder to give his voice that synthesized sound.
Anyway, I'll catch you all next year!

Here is a video with the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Béla Fleck and the Flecktones - The Sinister Minister

My song pick two years ago today: Rammstein - Reise, Reise

My song pick three years ago today: Billy Joel - New York State Of Mind

My song pick four years ago today: Manfred Mann - The Mighty Quinn (Quinn the Eskimo)

+

1600 Maurice Ravel - M.81 - Boléro

2011-12-30T10:31:00.000-08:00

1600 Maurice Ravel - M.81 - Boléro

M. 81, Year: 1928
Genre: classical/Orchestral

Well, I've made to 1600. I wasn't too sure if I wanted to pick something fitting for this post or not being as it is so close to the New Year and all, but I happened to have this lovely piece of music on my mind and it seemed like a good choice.
This is yet another one of those classical pieces of music where you'll get that "I know that tune" feeling immediately upon hearing it; it has permeated popular culture quite a bit over the years. I absolutely love the percussion and brass throughout the piece; it's such a rousing tune.
Even though Ravel himself supposedly hated this piece it became his most famous and best remembered.

Hear Boléro on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Megaherz - Schizophren

My song pick two years ago today: Genesis - Turn It On Again

My song pick three years ago today: Miles Davis - Walkin'

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Cold Wind To Valhalla

+

1599 The Steve Miller Band - Something to Believe In

2011-12-29T07:42:00.000-08:00

1599 The Steve Miller Band - Something to Believe In

From: The Joker, Year: 1973
Genre: Rock/Blues Rock

I felt like picking another Steve Miller Band song today; this is one of the prettiest tracks off of The Joker album. The Joker is another one of those well made albums where I just let it play without skipping a track. What really makes this song stand out for me is legendary pedal steel guitarist "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow's lead; it just adds that finishing touch.

Hear Something to Believe In on Videoclip.bg

My song pick a year ago today: Dizzy Gillespie - One Note Samba

My song pick two years ago today: Steely Dan - Josie

My song pick three years ago today: Joni Mitchell - Goodbye Pork Pie Hat

My song pick four years ago today: Big Country - In A Big Country

+

1598 The Steve Miller Band - My Dark Hour

2011-12-28T11:11:00.000-08:00

1598 The Steve Miller Band - My Dark Hour

From: Brave New World, Year: 1969
Genre: Rock/Blues Rock/Funk

Yesterday I was going back over some of The Steve Miller Band's older material. For me Brave New World is one of my favourites from the band's early days, so, as you would guess, it got a lot of play. There were some others that I wanted to pick ahead of this one, but it appears that for some reason the songs off of this album in particular have been targeted for removal from YouTube; I was lucky to find this live version of this one, which one of the album's hits.
I love the he spiced this track up with his use of Funk and Blues mixed with the Rock base of the song.
One little interesting factoid about this song is that one Paul Ramon, who is better known by day as Paul McCartney played bass, drums, and performed backing vocals on this track as well as Celebration Song on the Brave New World album.

Luckily enough I did find a studio version on videoclip.bg:
Here is the studio version on videoclip.bg
Hear a live performance of My Dark Hour on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Fear Factory - Fear Campaign

My song pick two years ago today: Gunnar Madsen - Surprise!

My song pick three years ago today: Charles Mingus - Tonight At Noon

My song pick four years ago today: Megadeth - Architecture of Aggression

+

1597 Billy Joel - The Downeaster 'Alexa'

2011-12-27T11:13:00.000-08:00

1597 Billy Joel - The Downeaster 'Alexa'

From: Storm Front, Year: 1989
Genre: Rock

For the last little bit it seems as if I've been picking songs that started to play in my mind for no reason; I am, I guess, continuing that trend today with this pick. Hopefully soon I'll have some purposely picked songs to post.
Ever since this song first came out it has been one of my favourites from Billy Joel. This track was arranged excellently giving the listener the feeling of swells, waves, and an overall brooding feeling. I love how most of his songs have a deeper message in them; this one deals with the trials of an independent fisherman struggling to get by with what seems like the world being against him.

Here is the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Oasis - Cast No Shadow

My song pick two years ago today: Nightwish - Wanderlust

My song pick three years ago today: Dizzy Gillespie - Salt Peanuts

My song pick four years ago today: Bon Jovi - You Give Love A Bad Name

+

1596 Genesis - Land of Confusion

2011-12-26T10:45:00.000-08:00

1596 Genesis - Land of Confusion

From: Invisible Touch, Year: 1986
Genre: Rock

I'm having one of those mornings where I just can't get motivated and wasn't really thinking about music. However, while getting going this morning I had this '80s Genesis standard running through my mind; I actually thought that I'd chosen it already. Apparently I hadn't yet and since it feels like an excellent track for my mood today I am making it today's pick.

Here is the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Jethro Tull - Stuck in the August Rain

My song pick two years ago today: Rammstein - Feuer Frei!

My song pick three years ago today: Huey Lewis and the News - Back In Time

My song pick four years ago today: Gilbert O'Sullivan - Alone Again (Naturally)

+

1595 Elvis Presley - Blue Christmas

2011-12-25T22:33:00.000-08:00

1595 Elvis Presley - Blue Christmas

From: Elvis' Christmas Album, Year: 1957
Genre: Rock 'N Roll/Christmas Music

Merry Christmas!
Well, Christmas is almost over; it seemed to just fly by.
Anyway, off and on for most of the day I've had this song from my childhood running through my mind. My mom used to play it quite a bit over the days leading up to Christmas in the past; both of my siblings and myself almost reviled it. Don't get me wrong, it's an excellent song and all, but those background singers singing "a-woo-ah-hooa" over and over again all but ruined the song for us.
Anyway, onto another workweek to help recover from the Holiday weekend.

Hear Blue Christmas on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Steeleye Span - Gaudete

My song pick two years ago today: Ian Anderson - A Birthday Card At Christmas

My song pick three years ago today: Jethro Tull - Another Christmas Song

My song pick four years ago today: Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Wish Liszt (Toy Shop Madness)

+

1594 "Weird Al" Yankovic - Christmas at Ground Zero

2011-12-24T07:30:00.000-08:00

1594 "Weird Al" Yankovic - Christmas at Ground Zero

From: Greatest Hits Volume II, Year: 1994 (1986)
Genre: Christmas Music/Comedy

Merry Christmas!
As I was getting ready to pick a song on this Christmas Eve this rather gruesome holiday ditty from Mr. Yankovic came to mind. He did a nice job mixing upbeat 60'sesque Pop/Rock music with the disturbing subject matter of a nuclear attack at Christmas time. I usually like to play this one on or around Christmas in anticipation of having to deal with relatives and in-laws in a virtual 'ground zero' rife with bad attitudes, selfishness, and holiday snits.

Here is the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Greg Lake (Emerson, Lake & Palmer) - I Believe in Father Christmas

My song pick two years ago today: Louis Armstrong - 'Zat You Santa Clause?

My song pick three years ago today: Jethro Tull - A Christmas Song

My song pick four years ago today: Trans-Siberian Orchestra - The Ghost of Christmas Eve

+

1593 Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Siberian Sleigh Ride

2011-12-23T08:25:00.000-08:00

1593 Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Siberian Sleigh Ride

From: The Lost Christmas Eve, Year: 2004
Genre: Symphonic Metal/Progressive Metal

I felt like I should pick at least one TSO song this Christmas season; it really is the only time of year you get to hear them. Although, they've already released two albums and are about to release a third as well that is not season specific. Maybe I'll pick one off of those sometime in the future away from the holiday season.
Anyway, this one moves along quite nicely with all of that Symphonic Metal goodness that TSO is known for; I love the awesome well-defined rhythm and back beat.

Hear Siberian Sleigh Ride on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Twisted Sister - Oh Come All Ye Faithful

My song pick two years ago today: Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Joy/Angels We Have Heard on High

My song pick three years ago today: The Kinks - Father Christmas

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Thick As A Brick

+

1592 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - Christmas All Over Again

2011-12-22T12:43:00.000-08:00

1592 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - Christmas All Over Again

From: A Very Special Christmas 2, Year: 1992
Genre: Rock

Was drawing a blank for a Christmas or related song for today, but luckily this seasonal offering from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers happened to come to mind.
This is one of the modern Christmas songs you hear a lot this time of year; it usually gets a bit of play over department store intercoms as well as the radio.

Hear Christmas All Over Again on YouTube.
Here is a live performance circa '00 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Rush - Tears

My song pick two years ago today: Sylvia - Drifter

My song pick three years ago today: Cheech & Chong - Santa Claus and His Old Lady

My song pick four years ago today: Supertramp - The Logical Song

+

1591 John Denver - Please Daddy (Don't Get Drunk This Christmas)

2011-12-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

1591 John Denver - Please Daddy (Don't Get Drunk This Christmas)

From: Farewell Andromeda, Year: 1973
Genre: Folk/Country

I thought that I might've picked this song already during one of the Christmas seasons since I've been doing this Song a Day blog, but apparently not.
I've never been a huge fan of this song about a father's drunken antics ruining Christmas for his family; I normally just skip over it when listening to Farewell Andromeda. That being said, however, it's an excellent song to listen to this time of year, especially if you've got a case of the "Christmas blues."

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Mykola Leontovych - Shchedryk (The Carol of the Bells)

My song pick two years ago today: Steeleye Span - Edwin

My song pick three years ago today: Trans-Siberian Orchestra/Savatage - Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Ring Out Solstice Bells

+

1590 Bob Rivers & Twisted Radio - I Am Santa Claus

2011-12-20T09:10:00.000-08:00

1590 Bob Rivers & Twisted Radio - I Am Santa Claus

From: I Am Santa Claus, Year: 1993
Genre: Comedy/Christmas Music

I decided that I should pick a much lighter Christmas song today and immediately I thought of this Bob Rivers' holiday tune set to Black Sabbath's "Iron Man." If you are really into silly Christmas songs Bob Rivers is a gold mine; he has released five full length comedy Christmas albums.
He did a totally awesome job in his arrangement on this one; I love how he utilized the "Jingle Bells" and "Joy to the World" melodies within the framework of the original song; of course with any good parody, the lyrics are top notch.

Hear I Am Santa Claus on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Daft Punk - End of Line

My song pick two years ago today: Avatar (Savatage) - Rock Me

My song pick three years ago today: Savatage - White Witch

My song pick four years ago today: Paul McCartney - Little Willow

+

1589 Jethro Tull - Jack Frost and the Hooded Crow

2011-12-19T10:44:00.001-08:00

1589 Jethro Tull - Jack Frost and the Hooded Crow

From: Broadsword and the Beast, Year: 1982
Genre: Progressive Rock/Folk Rock

I'm picking yet another seasonal song today. This is one of many songs released by Jethro Tull that are fitting around Christmas time; it's because of that you actually hear the band quite a bit more this time of year on the radio.
This one was recorded at the same time as the other songs on the Broadsword album, but didn't get released on it; it appeared as a b-side of the Coronach single and was part of the 20 Years of 'Tull boxed set. Later it was reunited with its counterparts on the remastered version of the Broadsword album; it was also rerecorded for their Christmas Album as well.
Anyway, this song is sung from an unfortunate person's point of view and how they are looked upon scornfully by the more fortunate. I absolutely love how this song goes from light and folkish acoustic to rock and everything in between. My favourite part is the third verse, which is sung a-cappella; it only adds to the grim warning in the lyrics:

"As holly pricks and ivy clings, your fate is none too clear.
The Lord may find you wanting, let your good fortune disappear.
All homely comforts blown away and all that's left to show
is to share your joy at Christmas time
with Jack Frost and the Hooded Crow."

Hear the studio version on YouTube.
Hear the version from The Christmas Album on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Nightwish - Wishmaster

My song pick two years ago today: The Violent Femmes - Color Me Once

My song pick three years ago today: The Who - Eminence Front

My song pick four years ago today: John Fogerty - Almost Saturday Night

+

1588 Louis Armstrong - Christmas in New Orleans

2011-12-18T20:29:00.000-08:00

1588 Louis Armstrong - Christmas in New Orleans

From: Christmas in New Orleans, Year: 1996 (1955)
Genre: Jazz/Christmas Music

Since we're in the home stretch before Christmas I figured I'd pick some appropriate music.
It was only a few years ago that I started to listen to a lot of the Holiday music Louis Armstrong recorded; I cannot believe that I celebrated so many Christmases without his music playing. Anyway, this is one of my favourite Christmas songs in his catalogue.

Hear Christmas in New Orleans on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Boston - A Man I'll Never Be

My song pick two years ago today: Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) - Blue Collar

My song pick three years ago today: John Denver - Season Suite - Winter

My song pick four years ago today: Band of Horses - The Funeral

+

1587 Tarot - Midwinter Nights

2011-12-17T22:50:00.000-08:00

1587 Tarot - Midwinter Nights

From: Spell Of Iron, Year: 1986
Genre: Metal

Wow, for the first time on this busy day I've been at the keyboard of a computer; thus getting my song pick in. I haven't been listening to, thinking about, or playing much music today, so I'm just pulling this song out of thin air for my pick tonight, and it's a good one.
This one comes from the band's debut album that was released back in '86 right after they changed their name from Purgatory to Tarot. While this album contains one of the band's biggest hits, Wings of Darkness, I actually like this track quite a bit more; it's my favourite off of the album.

Hear Midwinter Nights on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Henry Mancini - A Shot in the Dark

My song pick two years ago today: Finntroll - Jaktens Tid

My song pick three years ago today: Band of Horses - St. Augustine

My song pick four years ago today: Dan Fogelberg - Leader of the Band

+

1586 Triumph - Hold On

2011-12-16T08:54:00.000-08:00

1586 Triumph - Hold On

From: Just a Game, Year: 1979
Genre: Hard Rock

After some recent silliness that's happening this song came to mind; I thought I would go ahead and pick it.
I love the way this song starts out quiet and acoustic and keeps building until you have that nice large sound you'd expect from a late '70s early '80s power trio.

Hear Hold On on YouTube.
Watch a music video clip on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Jack Black and Jason Segel - The Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth

My song pick two years ago today: John Denver - Poems, Prayers and Promises

My song pick three years ago today: Crosby, Stills & Nash - Marrakesh Express

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - We Used To Know

+

1585 Alestorm - Keelhauled

2011-12-15T09:19:00.000-08:00

1585 Alestorm - Keelhauled

From: Black Sails at Midnight, Year: 2008
Genre: Celtic Folk Metal/Pirate Metal

I'm always interested when I can find a new genre or sub-genre of music. To tell the truth I was bemused when I saw the term 'Pirate Metal' used to describe this band's style.
Alestorm is a Scots Celtic Folk Metal band that uses pirate subject matter in their lyrics and incorporates popular piratesque musical themes in their brand of Metal such as sea chantys and the like.

Hear Keelhauled on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Jethro Tull - My God

My song pick two years ago today: Wolfsheim - Once in a Lifetime

My song pick three years ago today: Grand Funk Railroad - I'm Your Captain (Closer to Home)

My song pick four years ago today: Pet Shop Boys - So Hard

+

1584 Rare Earth - I Just Want to Celebrate

2011-12-14T08:46:00.000-08:00

1584 Rare Earth - I Just Want to Celebrate

From: One World, Year: 1971
Genre: Hard Rock/Funk

This is another one of those days where I had every intention of picking another song, but this one started to play in my head. And as I usually do, I took it as a sign I should pick it, although I should've waited for Friday; this would have made a good Funky Friday pick.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.
Here is a classic live performance on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Top Gear Band - Red Light Spells Danger

My song pick two years ago today: Azteca - Love is a Stranger

My song pick three years ago today: Danzig - Mother

My song pick four years ago today: Savatage - Gutter Ballet

+

1583 Steve Vai - I'm the Hell Outta Here

2011-12-13T08:25:00.000-08:00

1583 Steve Vai - I'm the Hell Outta Here

From: Elusive Light and Sound, Vol. 1, Year: 2002, (1992)
Genre: Metal/Hard Rock

I had this song playing in my mind this morning; it felt like a good pick for the day as well. I'm not too sure how it got stuck in my mind, it's not like this song is super catchy or anything, just amazing mindblowing musicianship here.
Anyway, this track was originally released on the soundtrack of the early '90s film Encino Man and was later re-released on his The Elusive Light and Sound, Vol. 1 album. Actually the entire album is made up of his music that was used in movies.

Hear I'm the Hell Outta Here on YouTube.
Here is an amazing live performance on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Fear Factory - Replica

My song pick two years ago today: David Bowie - Changes

My song pick three years ago today: Heart - Black On Black II

My song pick four years ago today: Fontella Bass - Rescue Me

+

1582 The Mushroom Tabernacle Choir - 12 Drugs of Christmas

2011-12-12T09:20:00.000-08:00

1582 The Mushroom Tabernacle Choir - 12 Drugs of Christmas

From: Help Put The 'X' Back In Xmas, Year: 1971
Genre: Comedy/Christmas Music

It's now 12 days 'till Christmas, well Christmas Eve anyway, and I thought I would choose this irreverent parody of the traditional 12 Days of Christmas for the occasion.
I can't remember where this song came from, but somehow it ended up in my mix of music. Until today I actually didn't know who actually did the song; on the internet it has been attributed to Cheech & Chong, and we all know accurate internet attributions usually are. I don't know if Cheech & Chong had anything to do with it or not; it does sound like something they'd be a part of. However, from my meager research I was able to find out it was supposedly done by an a cappella group that called itself The Mushroom Tabernacle Choir, but unfortunately there's not much more information that I can dig up about it at this time.
Anyway, if I find out more about it I'll be adding it to the post when I have time.

Hear a version of 12 Drugs of Christmas on YouTube. (NSFW).

My song pick a year ago today: David Bowie - Ashes to Ashes

My song pick two years ago today: Ian Anderson - In the Moneylender's Temple

My song pick three years ago today: Dobie Grey - Drift Away

My song pick four years ago today: Lobo - Gypsy and the Midnight Ghost

+

1581 Lighthouse - Pretty Lady

2011-12-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

1581 Lighthouse - Pretty Lady

From: Can You Feel It, Year: 1973
Genre: Rock

For most of the morning I had this song running through my mind; I thought I would add it to my list for today's pick.
I cannot begin to count the amount of times I've heard this song over the years; I believe that my dad had it on one of his many "Super Hits" records and he loved it. I distinctively remember my dad re-cuing the record; as I heard the song fade it would stop and then I'd hear the crackle just before the song began again.
While this one has a mainstream Rock feel, it's quite a 'big' sounding song; there is a noted Jazz influence throughout. The horns and strings give an excellent hook in the breaks, and as with almost all Canadian Rock bands, I just love the driving rhythm section.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Ugly Kid Joe - Mr. Recordman

My song pick two years ago today: Chet Atkins & Jerry Reed - Something

My song pick three years ago today: Buddy Holly & the Crickets - Well... All Right

My song pick four years ago today: Fleetwood Mac - Dreams

+

1580 Rush - What You're Doing

2011-12-10T11:53:00.000-08:00

1580 Rush - What You're Doing

From: Rush, Year: 1974
Genre: Metal/Hard Rock

I had the urge to listen to Rush's debut album this morning; there is just something about the raw energy of these early recordings that makes this record stand out in their catalogue. This is a riff driven track and is one of the harder driving songs on the album.
While this album does not feature the drumming of the great Neil Peart, it's still quite excellent musically; even the drums. I think a lot of the time John Rutsey got a bad wrap, when actually he was an superb drummer in his own right and better than many other drummers in the business. However, when he's compared to his replacement, who is hailed as one of the best of all time, I think that's when he gets marginalized.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.
Here is the live recording from All The World's A Stage on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Rahsaan Roland Kirk - Bright Moments

My song pick two years ago today: Maddy Prior - The Fabled Hare

My song pick three years ago today: Chuck Berry - Almost Grown

My song pick four years ago today: Gerry Rafferty - Right Down The Line

+

1579 Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) - Rain is Falling

2011-12-09T08:40:00.000-08:00

1579 Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) - Rain is Falling

From: Time, Year: 1981
Genre: Progressive Rock

Over the last few days I've been listening to ELO's Time album quite a bit; it felt like a good day to pick one of their songs.
This is one of the prettier tracks on the album, which takes place in the middle of the album/story as the time traveler is getting used to life in the year 2095. I believe that I have said this before in my other picks of songs from this concept album; other than the Prologue and Epilogue every song is excellent heard with or without the other songs that make up the story.
This song is almost what you could call Gospel meets Electronic Progressive Rock; I can hear a lot of John Lennon's influence on this song in particular, but it doesn't stray too far away from that excellent ELO sound.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Rush - Red Lenses

My song pick two years ago today: The Kinks - A Rock & Roll Fantasy

My song pick three years ago today: Quincy Jones - Soul Bossa Nova

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - My Sunday Feeling

+

1578 Molly Hatchet - One Man's Pleasure

2011-12-08T08:47:00.000-08:00

1578 Molly Hatchet - One Man's Pleasure

From Flirtin' With Disaster, Year: 1979
Genre: Hard Rock/Southern Rock

I was listening to Molly Hatchet and noticed that I hadn't picked one of their songs for a spell. Back when I was a teenager, and thus didn't have as much money, I'd go to yard sales and thrift stores and buy 8-Track tapes for next to nothing since that format was so far outdated that no one really put much value on them. I would then take them home and record them off on cassette; usually I would end up spending less than $2 to get an entire album and it was legal. You could even do it for less if you bought the 90 minute blank tapes, which you could normally fit two full albums on.
Anyway, as you probably already guessed, Flirtin' With Disaster was one of those albums. If I remember correctly, I either didn't have a blank tape on hand or I was just being lazy, but I remember playing the 8-Track quite a bit. There were always four songs playing at a given time, so every time the tape looped around there were tracks you'd switch to that had your favourite songs playing on. It just so happened that there was actually no song that I already liked playing at the point this one was playing and I usually had it on this track when it came around; eventually it became one of my favourites on the album.
This is definitely a fun party song; I love the drum and bass intro, of course the southern slide guitar work sell it the rest of the way.

Hear One Man's Pleasure on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Hawkwind - High Rise

My song pick two years ago today: Joachim Witt - Bataillon 'd Amour

My song pick three years ago today: Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young - Ohio

My song pick four years ago today: Donovan - Sunshine Superman

+

1577 Bob Dylan - Knockin' on Heaven's Door

2011-12-07T08:13:00.000-08:00

1577 Bob Dylan - Knockin' on Heaven's Door

From: Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid (Soundtrack), Year: 1973
Genre: Folk Rock

Last night some of my family and I were having a jam session and this was one that we played; I can't believe that I haven't yet picked it. This one was originally written for the soundtrack for the film Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid; this song was, if memory serves, the only hit to come out of the project.
This is one of many songs from Bob Dylan that I absolutely love, it is such an emotional piece of music. The simplicity of this track musically, in my opinion, only reinforces those emotional aspects. Even though Bob Dylan is not known for his vocal prowess, his vocals were perfect for this song.

Hear Knockin' on Heaven's Door on YouTube.
Here is a live performance circa '95 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Frank Zappa - Dumb All Over

My song pick two years ago today: Django Reinhardt - I'll See You In My Dreams

My song pick three years ago today: Queen - You're My Best Friend

My song pick four years ago today: The Zombies - She's Not There

+

1576 Rammstein - Rammstein

2011-12-06T08:12:00.000-08:00

1576 Rammstein - Rammstein

From: Herzeleid, Year: 1995
Genre: Neue Deutche Härte/Industrial Metal

About three weeks ago I picked Rammstein's new single and since then that post shot itself into my top ten most viewed posts of all time, which is quite fast. Usually popular posts take at least ten months to a year to get there, but I guess you should never underestimate Rammstein. Anyway, I figured I would pick another one of their songs to mark the occasion.
This song of the band's namesake, of course, hails from their first album and is actually one of the first songs written by the band. It was written about the Ramstein Airshow Disaster, which happened in 1988. From what I've read many believe that the band was named after the event as well, however the band has denied that assertion.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.
Here is a live performance on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: The Steve Miller Band - You Send Me

My song pick two years ago today: Frijid Pink - House of the Rising Sun

My song pick three years ago today: Jaco Pastorius - Portrait of Tracy

My song pick four years ago today: Rush - Time Stand Still

+

1573-5 Muse - Exogenesis: Symphony Parts 1,2, and 3

2011-12-05T09:03:00.000-08:00

1573-5 Muse - Exogenesis: Symphony Parts 1,2, and 3

From: The Resistance, Year 2009
Genre: Progressive Rock/Symphonic Rock

For most of yesterday Muse kept popping up all over the place from my iPod, the radio, to the television. Since I actually like the band quite a lot anyway I figured that I would pick one of their songs today.
Anyway, this is a three-part mini concept piece and is about 13 minutes in length; I hear a lot of classical composers' influence in this piece, Beethoven in particular. Long, multifaceted pieces like these used to permeate many of the Progressive Rock albums, but not as much in more recent years. When I first ran into this song it was a joy hearing a newer band taking the time and effort to write, arrange, and record one; not only that, but they did an amazing job as well.

Here is Part 1 (Overture) on YouTube.
Here is Part 2 (Cross-Pollination) on YouTube.
Here is Part 3 (Redemption) on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Hawkwind - Spirit of the Age

My song pick two years ago today: Stuart Hamm - Flow My Tears

My song pick three years ago today: Nightwish - I Wish I Had An Angel

My song pick four years ago today: Stevie Ray Vaughan - Pride and Joy

+

1572 Puhdys - Wenn Traume Sterben

2011-12-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

1572 Puhdys - Wenn Traume Sterben

From: Perlenfischer, Year: 1978
Genre: Rock

This straight-ahead rocker from Puhdys seemed like a perfect fit for today, so I'm going ahead and picking it.

Hear Wenn Traume Sterben on YouTube.
Watch a video clip circa '77 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Jim Reeves - It's Nothin' to Me

My song pick two years ago today: Rush - Twilight Zone

My song pick three years ago today: The Firm - Radioactive

My song pick four years ago today: Ozzy Osbourne - Shot in the Dark

+

1571 Billy Idol - Flesh for Fantasy

2011-12-03T23:37:00.000-08:00

1571 Billy Idol - Flesh for Fantasy

From: Rebel Yell, Year: 1983
Genre: Hard Rock/New Wave

A little bit ago I picked a song because the pick number happened to be the same as model number of my old Commodore 64 computer's 1541 disk drive. Anyway, since this pick number happens to be that of the model number of the drive that I later replaced it with, which was much better, I figured I would pick a song that was somewhat relevant, to me at least.
I remember back when I bought my Commodore 128 that had the 1571 disk drive with it there were a bunch of disks that came with it as well. On one disk in particular there were three 15 second clips of digitized songs on it; this was one of those songs. After what seem like a couple of minutes of load time it would play the clip in a continuous loop; it was just part of the drum/guitar intro which played.
While the music was only just a small snippet of garbled music, it was unique to hear actual music coming out of a computer that was built back in the mid '80s. Today when you can just boot up iTunes or whatever programme you use and instantly have thousands of tracks ready to play it kind of sounds archaic, but that was cutting edge back then. When I think about those three clips on that 5 1/4 floppy disk I can't help but think that I must've happened upon someone's 'proof of concept' that was possibly just made for bragging rights. I mean, really, there was no other reason for something like that, however it sure was amazing the first time I heard it after booting it up.

Here is the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: The Coasters - Along Came Jones

My song pick two years ago today: Grand Funk Railroad - Footstompin' Music

My song pick three years ago today: Petula Clark - Don't Sleep in the Subway

My song pick four years ago today: Band of Horses - Wicked Gil

+

1570 Blue Öyster Cult - Vengeance (The Pact)

2011-12-02T08:39:00.000-08:00

1570 Blue Öyster Cult - Vengeance (The Pact)

From: Fire of Unknown Origin, Year: 1981
Genre: Hard Rock

I had the urge to play Blue Öyster Cult's Fire of Unknown Origin this morning, which is one of my favourite albums from the band.
This song is one of the highlights for me, although in my opinion there are no weak tracks on the record. I like the way they use simple riffs throughout this big sounding song to drive it along; the somewhat contrasting sections keep it quite interesting as well.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Hawkwind - Sleep of a Thousand Tears

My song pick two years ago today: The Who - Squeeze Box

My song pick three years ago today: Steely Dan - FM (No Static At All)

My song pick four years ago today: The Beatles - A Hard Day's Night

+

1569 Megaherz - Kopfschuss

2011-12-01T08:40:00.000-08:00

1569 Megaherz - Kopfschuss

From: Kopfschuss, Year: 1998
Genre: Industrial Metal/Neue Deutsche Härte

I had this song on my mind this morning and actually have been wanting to pick it on and off for a while now; as usual I made it my pick.
This song has a nice mix of a smooth, groove in the verses with a much heavier chorus. The vocals are essentially a type of heavy metal rap, which flow quite well.

Hear Kopfschuss on YouTube.
Watch a live performance on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Dream Theater - Metropolis Pt. 1: The Miracle and the Sleeper

My song pick two years ago today: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - Refugee

My song pick three years ago today: Yes - Your Move/All Good People

My song pick four years ago today: King Harvest - Dancing in the Moonlight

+

1568 Jethro Tull - Pibroch (Cap in Hand)

2011-11-30T08:32:00.000-08:00

1568 Jethro Tull - Pibroch (Cap in Hand)

From: Songs From the Wood, Year: 1976
Genre: Progressive Rock/Folk Rock

For the last couple of days it would seem that the radio or some other sort of entertainment delivery system has been influencing my picks; I decided I would buck that trend today. Yeah, it's another 'Tull song, what a bit surprise there.
The Songs From the Wood record in my opinion contains some of the band's best and most difficult material musically; it is also one of the favourites among many 'Tull fans. This song takes inspiration and its name from the traditional Scots music known as Piobaireachd or the Anglicized "Pibroch," which is the music normally associated with the Great Highland Bagpipes.
Martin Barre really shines on this one; they used odd delay effects and recording techniques to make Martin Barre's blazing guitar throughout the song have a similar feel to the bagpipe playing a Pibroch. After hearing this track, and many others for that matter, it makes you wonder why Martin Barre is not counted among the guitar greats. I always get a chill up my spine when I hear this track, truly amazing.

Hear Pibroch on YouTube.
Watch an amazing live instrumental performance/guitar solo circa '82 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Ozzy Osbourne - Civilize the Universe

My song pick two years ago today: Kansas - Carry On Wayward Son

My song pick three years ago today: John Denver - The Eagle and the Hawk

My song pick four years ago today: Three Dog Night - Liar

+

1567 Black Sabbath - The Mob Rules

2011-11-29T08:40:00.000-08:00

1567 Black Sabbath - The Mob Rules

From: Mob Rules, Year: 1981
Genre: Metal

This is one comes from the Dio era of Black Sabbath and also features Vinny Appice on drums in place of Bill Ward. Some would also remember this song as being part of the soundtrack for the film Heavy Metal; I believe that it was in the part of the last story in the movie called Taarna. Apparently the version of the song from the film's soundtrack does feature Bill Ward on drums.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.
Here is the alternate version from the Heavy Metal soundtrack on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Roger Waters - It's a Miracle

My song pick two years ago today: Eric Idle - F--- Christmas

My song pick three years ago today: Otis Redding - (Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay

My song pick four years ago today: The Kinks - Celluloid Heroes

+

1566 Emerson, Lake & Palmer - Tarkus

2011-11-28T09:27:00.000-08:00

1566 Emerson, Lake & Palmer - Tarkus

From: Tarkus, Year: 1971
Genre: Progressive Rock

I had another song/artist in mind for my pick this morning, however after hearing ELP on the radio this morning, not this song mind you, I decided on this 'magnum opus' from the band.
This selection gives me a bit of freedom for picking since Tarkus is actually a suite consisting of seven tracks and 20 minutes of music: 1. Eruption, 2. Stones of Years, 3. Iconoclast, 4. Mass, 5. Manticore, 6. Battlefield, and 7. Aquatarkus. However, I thought it best to pick the entire suite instead of each track individually to keep continuity.
Tarkus, which is the name of the tank/armadillo hybrid on the album cover, is about the birth, life, and trials of the fictional creature. For me, however, the music and arrangements are the main draw; this one contains all of the musical fun that you would expect from the Prog/Rock monster that is ELP.

Here is the first half on YouTube.
Here is the second half on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Supertramp - Just a Normal Day

My song pick two years ago today: Northern Kings - Hello

My song pick three years ago today: Jethro Tull - Fallen On Hard Times

My song pick four years ago today: Mr. Big - Wild World

+

1565 John Denver - Farewell Andromeda (Welcome To My Morning)

2011-11-27T11:30:00.000-08:00

1565 John Denver - Farewell Andromeda (Welcome To My Morning)

From: Farewell Andromeda, Year: 1973
Genre: Folk Rock

This morning I had this song on my mind, and the overall mood and feeling fits this rather laid back Sunday.
I've always love the utter lack of cynicism in John Denver's music; this is one of his many uplifting and beautiful songs in that vein. Definitely a good song to listen to whilst you watch the sun rise.

Hear Farewell Andromeda on YouTube.
Hear an alternate studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Del Shannon - Runaway

My song pick two years ago today: Steely Dan - Black Friday

My song pick three years ago today: Ozzy Osbourne - I Just Want You

My song pick four years ago today: Quiet Riot - Cum On Feel The Noize

+

1564 Dream Theater - A Nightmare to Remember

2011-11-26T10:35:00.000-08:00

1564 Dream Theater - A Nightmare to Remember

From: Black Clouds & Silver Linings, Year: 2009
Genre: Progressive Metal

I've been thinking about picking another Dream Theater track for a while now; finally I'm thinking about it when I sat down to make my pick.
A Nightmare to Remember is a rather monstrous lead track off of Black Clouds & Silver Linings; it clocks in at just over 16 minutes. This John Petrucci composition is one of my favourites from the album. It contains a lot of what I like about DT's music; from what I understand it was written about a car accident that he was in when he was a child.

Hear A Nightmare to Remember on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Bob Marley & the Wailers - Jamming

My song pick two years ago today: Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble - Crossfire

My song pick three years ago today: 4 Non Blondes - What's Up?

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - ...And The Mouse Police Never Sleeps

+

1563 Nightwish - Storytime

2011-11-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

1563 Nightwish - Storytime

From: Imaginaerum, Year: 2011
Genre: Symphonic Metal

A couple of years ago I was pretty heavy into Nightwish, but it seems as if that over the last little bit I've been listening to them less. I still love their music and all, but think I just burnt myself out a bit listening to them.
Anyway, I discovered that their new album, Imaginaerum, is about to be released on the 30th of this month; this song is the first single to be released from it. It seems as if Tuomas Holopainen went all out with this one, it's a concept album; supposedly there is a film being made of the album's namesake that is based on its story.
It's nice to have some new material to listen to; can't wait to hear the rest of the songs.

Watch the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Kay Kyser and His Orchestra - Praise The Lord and Pass the Ammunition

My song pick two years ago today: Nightwish feat. Tapio Wilska - The Devil & the Deep Dark Ocean

My song pick three years ago today: Mason Proffit - Two Hangmen

My song pick four years ago today: Frank Zappa - Don't Eat The Yellow Snow

+

1562 David Bowie - Young Americans

2011-11-24T08:03:00.000-08:00

1562 David Bowie - Young Americans

From: Young Americans, Year: 1975
Genre: Rock

I know it's Thanksgiving and all; I should perhaps choose something appropriate, but I just felt like hearing some 'Bowie this morning. I guess that I can just be thankful for David Bowie and his music, yeah that works.
I've always loved the music and feel of this song; it's one of my many favourites from his catalogue.

Hear Young Americans on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Eric Robertson - "Spooked" on Classics

My song pick two years ago today: Antonio Salieri - Requiem in C-Minor (Piccolo Requiem)

My song pick three years ago today: Marmalade - Reflections of My Life

My song pick four years ago today: .38 Special - Same Old Feeling

+

1561 Hawkwind - Space Chase

2011-11-23T09:53:00.000-08:00

1561 Hawkwind - Space Chase

From: Levitation, Year: 1980
Genre: Space Rock/Progressive Rock

I had some ideas for my pick today, but they just didn't fit. I finally just decided on picking yet another Hawkwind track; I believe that I haven't yet chosen a song off of their Levitation album, so I decided on this rather fast-paced instrumental.
As the title states, it gives off the overall feel of a space ship chasing another across the cosmos.

Hear Space Chase on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) - Four Wheel Drive

My song pick two years ago today: Savatage - When the Crowds are Gone

My song pick three years ago today: Joe Walsh - Ordinary Average Guy

My song pick four years ago today: Warren Zevon - Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner

+

1560 Mahavishnu Orchestra - You Know You Know

2011-11-22T08:35:00.000-08:00

1560 Mahavishnu Orchestra - You Know You Know

From: The Inner Mounting Flame, Year: 1971
Genre: Jazz Fusion/Progressive Rock

Here's a nice soulful grooving track from John McLaughlin's Mahavishnu Orchestra; this one's a treat even for those who don't like technical music such as Jazz Fusion. The song is held together by a waltzing groove line, which carries it quite well while the other instruments solo around it. I really like Jan Hammer's keyboards and, of course John McLaughlin's guitar throughout; as with most Jazz Fusion bands the drums are incredible, Billy Cobham is just mind blowing. When listening to these Fusion bands, to me the drums are almost like the sun with the other instruments likened to planets orbiting it.
Many who are into Hip-Hop/Rap should recognize this song as well, it has been sampled many times over the years by various acts.

Hear You Know You Know on YouTube.
Watch an incredible Live performance on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: The Kinks - Acute Schizophrenia Paranoia Blues

My song pick two years ago today: Rush - Manhattan Project

My song pick three years ago today: Andy Taylor - When the Rain Comes Down

My song pick four years ago today: Arlo Guthrie - Alice's Restaurant Massacree

+

1559 Dead Meadow - Greensky Greenlake

2011-11-21T09:29:00.000-08:00

1559 Dead Meadow - Greensky Greenlake

From: Dead Meadow, Year: 2000
Genre: Hard Rock/Psychedelic Rock

I had this rather nice instrumental on my mind this morning; it seemed to fit my mood.

Hear Greensky Greenlake on YouTube.
Here is a live performance on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Yes - Owner of a Lonely Heart

My song pick two years ago today: Duran Duran - Serious

My song pick three years ago today: Styx - Crystal Ball

My song pick four years ago today: Rush - Tom Sawyer

+

1558 Jefferson Airplane - Somebody to Love

2011-11-20T19:48:00.000-08:00

1558 Jefferson Airplane - Somebody to Love

From: Surrealistic Pillow, Year: 1967
Genre: Psychedelic Rock/Hard Rock

For some reason I had this song running through my mind most of the day, so, as I usually do, I'm making it my pick. Ever since I first heard this song, which was a long, long time ago, I have always liked it a lot.
This was actually a cover that was originally recorded by the band The Great Society, which can be heard here on YouTube. It was written by Darby Slick, who was Grace Slick's brother-in-law; they both played in The Great Society.

Hear Somebody to Love on YouTube.
Watch the music video on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: John Denver - In My Life

My song pick two years ago today: The Charlie Daniels Band - Legend of Wooley Swamp

My song pick three years ago today: The Doors - Strange Days

My song pick four years ago today: Argent - Hold Your Head Up

+

1557 Django Reinhardt & Stéphane Grappelli (Quintette du Hot Club de France) featuring Freddy Taylor - I'se a Muggin'

2011-11-19T10:34:00.000-08:00

1557 Django Reinhardt & Stéphane Grappelli (Quintette du Hot Club de France) featuring Freddy Taylor - I'se a Muggin'

From: The Quintet of the Hot Club of France, Year: 1936
Genre: Swing Jazz/Gypsy Jazz

What an excellent track for a laid back Saturday like this one; nothing to do but watch the snow pile up and listen some awesome tunes.
I love Freddy Taylor's mellow, upbeat vocals and scatting throughout the song. He added something special to the already great sound of Reinhardt/Grappelli and co.

Hear I'se a Muggin' on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Styx - Light Up

My song pick two years ago today: Pink Floyd - Waiting for the Worms

My song pick three years ago today: Rush - Roll the Bones

My song pick four years ago today: Béla Fleck & The Flecktones - A Moment So Close

+

1556 Red Hot Chili Peppers - Ethiopia

2011-11-18T07:58:00.000-08:00

1556 Red Hot Chili Peppers - Ethiopia

From: I'm With You, Year: 2011
Genre: Alternative Rock/Funk

I feel like making a Funky Friday pick today. This is one of my favourite songs off of RHCP's most recent release: I'm With You; it's one of the more dynamic tracks on the album. Apparently the band got some of their influence for this track from an Ethiopian band called Africa Express; from what I understand they hung out and jammed quite a bit.
I love how they employed odd time signatures in this song and yet to the untrained ear you really don't notice it; that, in my opinion, is the mark of an excellent band when they are able to do that.

Hear Ethiopia on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Bass Extremes - Glorious Pastorius

My song pick two years ago today: Alexander Courage - Where No Man Has Gone Before (Theme From Star Trek)

My song pick three years ago today: The Temptations - Get Ready

My song pick four years ago today: Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) - Not Fragile

+

1555 Nirvana - About a Girl

2011-11-17T08:32:00.000-08:00

1555 Nirvana - About a Girl

From: Bleach, Year: 1989
Genre: Alternative Rock/Grunge/Pop

I had this track on my mind this morning and it fits my mood pretty good.
While I've never been a bona fide fan of their music, there are more than a few of Nirvana's songs that I like. I believe that I'm more into Grunge now than I was back when it was the 'in' thing. I guess I don't feel as bombarded anymore and can actually sit back and enjoy it for what it is rather than it being the newest thing 'you must' be into.
Anyway, this track comes off of their '89 debut album Bleach; it has a very distinct Beatleish sound to it. From what I've read Kurt Cobain wrote it after listening to one of the Beatles' albums a bunch of times.

Hear About a Girl on YouTube.
Watch their 'unplugged' performance on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Forest - Gypsy Girl & Rambleaway

My song pick two years ago today: Steely Dan - Caves of Altamira

My song pick three years ago today: Free - All Right Now

My song pick four years ago today: The Easybeats - Friday On My Mind

+

1554 Steely Dan - Bodhisattva

2011-11-16T08:19:00.000-08:00

1554 Steely Dan - Bodhisattva

From: Countdown to Ecstasy, Year: 1973
Genre: Rock/Jazz

I had a couple of songs in mind for my pick, but after I heard this song on the radio this morning I figured I would choose it instead.
I've often wondered who the enlightened being was that they were singing this song to, or maybe the word 'Bodhisattva' just fit their lyrical scheme the way they wanted, who knows. Anyway, the band is as excellent as ever in their musicianship and arrangement on this track.

Hear Bodhisattva on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: UFO - Rock Bottom

My song pick two years ago today: Jethro Tull - Baker St. Muse

My song pick three years ago today: Toto - Hold the Line

My song pick four years ago today: Jethro Tull - Kissing Willie

+

1553 John Dowland - Flow My Tears (Lachrimae Pavane)

2011-11-15T08:31:00.000-08:00

1553 John Dowland - Flow My Tears (Lachrimae Pavane)

Year: 1596
Genre: Renaissance Period/classical

This beautiful piece of music started running through my mind this morning; it has to be one of the oldest pieces of music I've yet to add to my blog. The piece is known as an Ayre, which was written for a vocal and lute and is most likely John Dowland's most famous work.
I originally was introduced to his music through one of my favourite Science Fiction authors: Philip K. Dick. He was a huge fan of John Dowland and went as far as to write under the pseudonym Jack Dowland on some of his works. He actually borrowed the title of this piece for his novel Flow My Tears, the Policeman Said, which is also one of my favourite of his books.

Here is a performance of the piece by Paul Agnew and Christopher Wilson on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Slaughter - Days Gone By

My song pick two years ago today: Johnny Rivers - Poor Side of Town

My song pick three years ago today: Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) - Stayed Awake All Night

My song pick four years ago today: David Essex - Rock On

+

1552 Steve Vai - Bad Horsie

2011-11-14T09:16:00.000-08:00

1552 Steve Vai - Bad Horsie

From: Alien Love Secrets, Year: 1995
Genre: Hard Rock

I was listening to this song the other day; I thought I'd already picked it before. I checked and apparently I hadn't yet, so today I will.
As with the majority of his work, this track showcases his virtuosity and inventiveness with the guitar. I love the thunderous, gritty, and bassy chords Steve Vai used in this one.
You can actually hear this song in an embryonic state in the '86 Ralph Macchio film Crossroads at the beginning of the guitar duel between him and Steve Vai, who plays the part of the Devil's guitarist Jack Butler. The entire guitar duel scene from the movie can be found here on YouTube.

Also, I happened to notice that Bill, (Heuristics Inc.), has fired up his song-a-day blog once again.

Hear Bad Horsie on YouTube.
Watch a music video/performance on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Fats Domino - Ain't That a Shame

My song pick two years ago today: ABBA - I Let the Music Speak

My song pick three years ago today: Stone Temple Pilots - The Big Empty

My song pick four years ago today: Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) - Mr. Blue Sky

+

1551 Black 47 - Fire of Freedom

2011-11-13T19:25:00.000-08:00

1551 Black 47 - Fire of Freedom

From: Fire of Freedom, Year: 1993
Genre: Rock/Celtic Rock/Reggae

I've been meaning to pick this track for a bit now; I'm finally getting around to it this Sunday.
This song epitomizes why I like Black 47 so much: there are so many musical styles and genres utilized within to make an excellent blend. I love their blend of Irish Folk, Reggae, Jazz, and Rock; it makes for an interesting sound.

Hear Fire of Freedom on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Aerosmith - Amazing

My song pick two years ago today: Banchee - Beautifully Day

My song pick three years ago today: The Cure - Burn

My song pick four years ago today: Fire Bomber (Hummingbird) - Dynamite Explosion

+

1550 Rammstein - Mein Land

2011-11-12T12:45:00.000-08:00

1550 Rammstein - Mein Land

From: Made in Germany/Mein Land (Single), Year: 2011
Genre: Neue Deutsche Härte/Industrial Metal

Ja! Neue Rammstein!
This single from their yet-to-be-released remastered greatest hits album Made in Germany was just released, well in parts of Europe at least. Those of us in the rest of the world will have to wait a few more days or just import it.
Anyway, this is a brand new song that they added to their greatest hits album as a bonus, I always love when bands do that. If you like Rammstein's sound then this song will be right up your alley, they're excellent as ever.
While I'm intending on getting the album, I've become kind of cautious when I see the word 'remastered' anymore, that word usually means they're making it louder and removing all depth from the audio, but we'll see. If nothing else we're getting an excellent new song.

Here is the music video on YouTube. (NSFW) It appears that UMG is busy removing all videos with the song from YouTube.
The music video can also be found on rammstein.de. (NSFW) With it being on the band's site, it's less likely to be taken down.

My song pick a year ago today: Karussell - Tanzen

My song pick two years ago today: Pearls Before Swine - Tell Me Why

My song pick three years ago today: Red Rider - Lunatic Fringe

My song pick four years ago today: Steve Winwood & Traffic - Dear Mr. Fantasy

+

1549 Savatage - Memory

2011-11-11T07:47:00.000-08:00

1549 Savatage - Memory

From: Dead Winter Dead, Year: 1995
Genre: Progressive Metal/Symphonic Metal

Well, today is Armistice Day or Veteran's Day, depending on which country you live in. Also because of the date being 11-11-11, some people have dubbed it 'Metal Day' as well; I guess they are playing off of that tired, old cliché of a joke from the Spinal Tap movie.
Anyway, I thought this track would be excellent for my pick today. The song is the main theme from the fourth movement of Beethoven's 9th Symphony in D-Minor (Op. 125). I love how dynamic they made this abbreviated arrangement of the classic piece of music. It starts out with a clean electric guitar playing the melody and then the tempo picks up and effects and distortion are added.

Here is a video with a guy playing guitar to the studio version on YouTube.
I really wish that there was an actual studio version available, but c'est la vie.

My song pick a year ago today: Billy Joel - Goodnight Saigon

My song pick two years ago today: S Sgt Barry Sadler - Ballad of the Green Berets

My song pick three years ago today: Pink Floyd - On the Turning Away

My song pick four years ago today: ABBA - Soldiers

+

1548 Santo & Johnny - Teardrop

2011-11-10T08:09:00.000-08:00

1548 Santo & Johnny - Teardrop

From: Sleepwalk, Year: 1959
Genre: Pop/Rock

I had a few other songs in mind for today's pick, but this pretty track started running through my mind; as usual I took it as a sign that I should pick it. I love all of the emotion they put into this song, it's truly a beautiful song. The only thing I don't like about it was, like most songs of the late 50's/early 60's, it far too short at just 2 minutes in length.

Hear Teardrop on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Rammstein - Bück Dich

My song pick two years ago today: Lulu - To Sir With Love

My song pick three years ago today: Primus - Nature Boy

My song pick four years ago today: Deep Purple - Space Truckin'

+

1547 Exist†Trace - RESONANCE

2011-11-09T08:42:00.000-08:00

1547 Exist†Trace - RESONANCE

From: Twin Gate, Year: 2010
Genre: Metal

For the last few days I've thinking about this band that I saw this year at Seattle's Sakura Con '11 animé convention. I'd never heard of them prior to seeing them; they were one of the headline attractions at the convention. I've been introduced to quite a few Japanese bands through that convention; I should probably pick some of their songs as well at some point.
I'll say that once the sound crew ceased inhibiting them with their incompetence Exist†Trace were able to put on an amazing show.

Also, I learned this morning from Max that there is another song a day blogger; I would like to welcome Frankie Big Face to the fold as well. As his blog states, his mission is picking 9999 songs. I've added his site to the Other Song-a-Day Blog list to the right.

Here is the music video clip on YouTube.
Here is their performance from Sakura Con '11 on YouTube. The song begins at the 4 minute mark.

My song pick a year ago today: Three Dog Night - One Man Band

My song pick two years ago today: The Eagles - Outlaw Man

My song pick three years ago today: Def Leppard - Lets Get Rocked

My song pick four years ago today: Alabama - Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)

+

1544-6 Pink Floyd - Another Brick in the Wall, Parts 1-3

2011-11-08T08:07:00.000-08:00

1544-6 Pink Floyd - Another Brick in the Wall, Parts 1-3

From: The Wall, Year 1979
Genre: Progressive Rock

For some reason I felt like listening to The Wall this morning; I happened to notice that I had not chosen the three-part title track yet, so I figured it would make a good pick for today. I really thought had chosen it at some point, but I've chosen a lot of Pink Floyd over the last four years of doing this blog, so it's easy to miss some from time to time.
For us Progressive/Art Rock fans you can't help but underscore the importance of both this album and Dark Side of the Moon, which greatly helped at the planting of the genre into the mainstream consciousness.

Here are parts 1 + 2 on YouTube.
Here is the video with part 3 on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Blue Öyster Cult - X-Ray Eyes

My song pick two years ago today: Alton Ellis - Sunday Coming

My song pick three years ago today: Pat Benatar - Treat Me Right

My song pick four years ago today: Ronnie Milsap - Smokey Mountain Rain

+

1543 The Rolling Stones - In Another Land

2011-11-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

1543 The Rolling Stones - In Another Land

From: Their Satanic Majesties Request, Year: 1967
Genre: Psychedelic Rock

Over the last couple of days I've either had a 'Stones song running through my mind or I've been hearing them on the radio and television, so I thought it was a sign that I should pick one of their songs.
Their Satanic Majesties Request is one of my favourite 'Stones albums; this is one of my favourite tracks off of it as well. It's a nice piece of '60s Psychedelic Rock that was written by bassist Bill Wyman.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Iron Maiden - Satellite 15... The Final Frontier

My song pick two years ago today: Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) - Hold on Tight / Epilogue

My song pick three years ago today: C.W. McCall - Wolf Creek Pass

My song pick four years ago today: Eddie Rabbitt - I'm Driving My Life Away

+

1542 Blue Öyster Cult - Astronomy

2011-11-06T22:46:00.000-08:00

1542 Blue Öyster Cult - Astronomy

From: Secret Treaties, Year: 1974
Genre: Progressive Rock/Hard Rock

After a difficult day I'm really not much in the mood for music, but that won't stop me from making my pick for today. This track is rather beautiful and well constructed both lyrically and musically. I really wish I felt like writing more this evening.

Here is the studio version on YouTube.

My song pick a year ago today: Yoshiki Fukuyama - Angel's Voice

My song pick two years ago today: The Kinks - (Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman

My song pick three years ago today: The Allman Brother's Band - Ain't Waistin' Time No More

My song pick four years ago today: Red Sovine - Phantom 309

+