So, I got Cor's CD yesterday and since then have finally settled in for a good, attentive listen to everybody's contributions – and WOW! - once again I'm blown away by the selections each one contains. I can honestly say I like every single track on each CD. Some resonate for me particularly better than others, but they're all good. One thing about me, I don't take as many opportunities as I could to pick up on newer artists and their works, so this CD exchange really lets me in on some great stuff that's happening, especially among younger artists. Kind of restores my faith in the state of the musical universe and where it's going from here. Anyway, the enlightenment is much appreciated. Now, some specific notes...
Todd's:Some fave standouts for me include "Mr. Fairfax" "Sorry" (Easybeats are always entertaining) "I Live For The Sun" (something of an anthem here at The Old Melody Ranch), and "I Know Where I'm Going"
"Go Back" is a hoot to hear. I saw Crabby Appleton back in the day (that time that I mentioned before when The Steve Miller band stole the show from Spirit - Crabby was the opening act), and also have their recordings. But it's a nice reminder of how good they were. They should have had a bigger career.
A bit of synchronicity here with the inclusion of Jack White's "I'm Shakin'" since I have a The White Stripes track on my CD. I recently completed my Stripes collection and am eager to take that in.
Like George, I'm thoroughly impressed by The Grip Weeds and hope to start a collection of their work. You mentioned their Beatle-ish tone, but I also hear a number of other 60's type influences in the music. I was often put in mind of The Who, especially with that excellent drumming. Really good stuff.
George's:Again, every track is a winner. Some highlights for me: "Hand In Mine" "Prisms" "The Moment" "Arabella" and "Girl In A Box" (kind of dark and quirky, but that suits my sensibilities just fine)
Nice to see ZZ Top represented, and our own bit of synchronicity is here with "Wear You Out" since I included a track by Buddy Guy myself. My favorite contemporary blues man.
I also very much enjoyed Architecture In Helsinki's piece. I'd heard them before but now I'm motivated to collect all their stuff.
The bonus disk is also great, and I have renewed enthusiasm for those groups.
A wonderful collection.
Cor's:Same as the others, each track a treat. Such a wide array of styles and moods represented. Some especially enjoyable cuts for me are "You Picked Me" (everybody's choice of opening tracks were superb) "Lover You Should've Come Over" (very moving) "Waterfall" and "Still Loving After You"
"Black-Eyed" really stood out for me too. I have been a Placebo fan ever since I heard their brilliant cover of "Running Up That Hill" some years ago. I definitely need to expand my collection of their albums.
I will be enjoying this set often.
I guess in comparison to these relatively newer recordings, my choices are rather retrospective. But that is by design, as I like to pay homage to the past. I did, however, include a number tracks released within the past year or so. Remember the wisdom of Lao Tzu.
Thanks again, guys. Your efforts are much appreciated.
As with last year, if anyone would like to download a copy of my set just PM me and I'll send the link. I wouldn't post it here now for fear of copyright infringement issues with the forum.
Peace.
