Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Artsy Schmartsy

So...I've just finished reading the Patti Smith memoir, Just Kids, and I have to say that it is one of the best books I've ever read. It's not just a memoir in the basic sense, but more of a recollection of a time of art, poetry, and the promise that nothing is promised, so do what you can while you can. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is a writer, artist, musician, etc. Or, I would just recommend it to anyone who enjoys a vivid account of artistic transcendence.

On a more musical note, I've still been ditch-diving into my records. I started by revisiting Paul Robeson, and I constantly replay the track "There's a Man Goin' Round Takin' Names." I've looked for it online, and haven't been able to find it, so if you want to hear it, go out and buy a Paul Robeson record. It shouldn't bee too hard to find. Also, a friend introduced me to Deer Tick after I told her about my new-found obsession with Mumford and Sons, and this song is definitely a replayable (not a word!) one, though I'm sure fans of the band will say "duh!"



Also, I've been listening to Blue by Joni Mitchell. Her voice gets me every single time, and just listening to the song "River" is enough to convert any unknowing person into full-fledged Joni worship. And if it doesn't, something is seriously wrong with you. Also, how can you pass up an album that has been placed on so many "best of all time" lists, usually ranking Joni the top female spot. If that's not enough to convince you, I don't know what is.

Another band that has blissfully fallen under my radar is The Wolf. They are a local band here in Austin, TX that definitely play on the whole psych-garage mantra of producing work. The band has a page on Facebook, where they have six tracks available for listening. My personal favorites include "Jambourine" and "Just Like You."

That's all I got for tonight. Peace!

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