"Life in a Northern Town" by The Dream Academy from the album The Dream Academy. 1985.
Chances are you've heard this one, even if the title and band don't ring a bell. Not much to say about it... Verses are nice a peaceful, while the choruses hit powerfully.
"Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman" by Bryan Adams from the album Don Juan DeMarco Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. 1995.
Yup, it comes from the flick Don Juan DeMarco, which itself is enjoyable. Again, not much to say, just a fun listen.
Prelude from "A Downland Suite" composed by John Ireland. 1932.
Classical/orchestral songs are hard to feature. They're not accessible to everyone, hard to incorporate in a playlist (notably with modern genres), and usually much longer than I'd like for the purpose. Sometimes they consist of multiple movements, and most importantly there never tends to be a master recording since many different symphony groups perform it, usually with minor differences. Even so, the most staggering sounds to the ears lie in this field. The instruments alone have to strike your emotions- no clever lyrics or heavy techno-bass to crutch upon.
I encourage you to listen to all four movements of "Downland", however, I only am featuring the first "Prelude" in the song of the week. In the linked Youtube clip, it ranges from the start to about 5:22. The Prelude bounces from a powerful brass fanfare to more of a playful, carnival joviality. For those who know time signature, revel in the non-standard 9/8 time!
I must mention that the version I have includes percussion while the linked clip does not. I think it adds even more power, but could not find a good recording online. If you want to take a stab at the differences, here's the best drum-included Prelude I could spot starting around 1:35.
"The Lighthouse's Tale" by Nickel Creek from the album Nickel Creek. 2000.
I say this about many songs I feature, but here's a beauty. Told from the unique narrator of a Lighthouse, the tune speaks of a story between its keeper and his love. Between the playful instruments and splendidly tragic lyrics, there's nothing to hate about this bluegrass tune- even if you're not a usual fan of bluegrass.
"The Cover of the Rolling Stone" by Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show from the album Sloppy Seconds. 1972.
One of my favorite "Oldies". Chock full of self-depreciating humor. Might as well be the poster-song of every 70s' band mashed into one. Plus, you just gotta love that band name!
"D'Yer Wanna Be a Spaceman" by Oasis from the album Shakermaker. 1994.
Okay, well ignore the video and that odd little intro. Silly Youtube. You no doubt know Oasis, but I believe "Spaceman" was just a short span before the Britpop group hit international fame. Honestly, I wouldn't call it too groundbreaking, but I like the message.
"Eleanor" by Low Millions from the album Ex-Girlfriends. 2004.
Lead singer Adam Cohen happens to be the son of legendary Leonard Cohen. Just an interesting tidbit. I always wonder if the children of famous singers feel pressured to follow in their parent's field. Does it become a competition of who can become bigger? Does failure in the business hurt even more? Is it just easier to get a start because of the name recognition? Anyhoo, effective melody on a tune easy to sing along with.
"Holocaust of Giants" by Rasputina from the album Sister Kinderhook. 2010.
Okay, if there is ONE song you listen to out of the 15 posted, it should be this one. Rasputina brings the chilling cello sound to amazing levels, taking even Pink Floyd and Creedence Clearwater Revival to new realms. "Holocaust of Giants" though is one unique beast. Just looking at the title, you might think "Oh great, some politically charged song or something." Get this though: it's about dinosaur fossils. I cannot downplay how spectacular this song is for its originality and ability to break your expectations. Amazing lyrics, amazing sound.
Phew, another massive unleashing. I know in terms of a playlist built weekly, this is kind of cheating. I assure you though that the choices are no less worthy. I can't promise anything, but if I do continue Randor's Song of the Week, I indeed would like to pick 'em one at a time.
At least there's something for y'all to listen to. If you feel inclined, let me know which songs were your favorites and which ones you couldn't even finish! Until next time, whenever that may be...
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