HJ's Music Notes

כל הדברים התפתח

2009-05-19T08:24:00.004-04:00

Lately, I have had a growing obsession for Sufjan Stevens. I have heard his name floating around like a bubble I chose to ignore. Late last year was when I really started to getting into his hymn covers (which are luscious, sweet, and abstract).

I have written about him before, but I think Sufjan doesn't need me or anyone else for that matter to spend numerous paragraphs in pretty language in order for people to be interested in his music. He just needs to be heard.

In the likes of Iron & Wine and Elliot Smith, let me share with you the songs that have tugged at my acoustic heart.

"Chicago"

"John Wayne Gacy Jr." Yes, this song is about the serial killer.

"For The Widows In Paradise, For The Fatherless In Yspilanti" One of my favorites of his.

"Vito's Ordination Song"

"The Dress Looks Nice On You"

"Holy, Holy, Holy"

Title: "All Things Grow" in Hebrew
In My Head: "Inside A Boy" by My Brightest Diamond

C'est Cette Période De L'année

2009-04-24T10:20:00.004-04:00

Imogen just blew my mind.

She will cause yours to combust in a second.

Title: "It's That Time of Year" in French
In My Head: "Thank U" by Alanis Morissette

Si Perdu Mes Cheveux et Ma Jeunesse

2009-04-21T01:53:00.002-04:00

My towel fresh out of the dryer to wipe your drip-dropping hair.
That hug right before you leave a friend that you know you won't see for a while.
The look that there might be something more.
When a friend says, "I'll pray for you".
Finding the perfect skipping stone, and missing.
Those few breaths in which you and the mirror are not arguing.
Remembering the times tears were shed, realizing that you had forgotten until now.
An A paper that you think you don't deserve.
Acknowledging that perfection is a myth, but one you feed into consistently.
Being lost in a wood that should be familiar, but is a stranger all the same.
Someone who is quick to forgive.
Your lovable pet who either is blind to your faults or ignores them.
The beauty that comes with the imperfect, broken, nonsensical, and lost.

That's how I feel when I listen to this song.

I keep listening so that it can become moisturizer. I need this song to nourish my frail and dehydrated soul. Its words need to penetrate past my skin, to fight to get to my bloodstream. Maybe then will I actually believe that these words are true.

Title: "If I Lost My Hair and My Youth" in French
In My Head: "Utopia" by Alanis Morissette

.พวกนี้ของฉันเพชรดัง

2009-03-27T16:41:00.008-04:00

These are the gems.
These are suns of my recent days.
These are butterflies that dance near my ear, so beautiful, graceful, and fun.
They shine.
They are deep musical bays, with soft water, a clean, crisp scent, and a vague taste of salt.

The first is my current inner weather report.
The second is the soundtrack to dream that is sleeping on the horizon.

"I'll be the one who'll break my heart. I'll be the one to hold the gun."

"In his eyes are a thousand stars on a dark sky...We crash like lightening into love."

Title: "These are my diamond rings" in Thai
In My Head: "Kiss The Girl" from The Little Mermaid

συχαρίκια

2009-03-16T18:24:00.008-04:00

Hello, my few lovely readers!! How's your week? Let me know in comments!

I have a few pieces of news to share, but first, my apologies for lack of posting in the past weeks! I will most definitely try to do better. Let us the lick the chocolate smothered bowl of good news.

1) I decided to give up male artists for Lent because I obsess over them. I am consistently distracted by being attracted. It's been really hard, but it's also an opportunity to discover new female artists. I can only consume about 9% of my entire music library. This fast is really helping me become closer to the Protector (as Fleet Foxes might say). I found the gems of First Aid Kit and Kate Nash (I did a post on Ms. Nash a while ago, but I think it's time to refresh your memory). Future post stars, ofcourse.

2) I am a soon-to-be contributing blogger for Princeton Record Exchange!! It's one the largest independent record exchanges in the country, and it's just ten minutes from my house! So, not only can you read my work here, but also *hopefully* semi-frequently on their blog.

3) I just bought Feist's The Reminder. That might not seem significant, but
when you hear it, you'll realize that she is awesome. Her cover of Nina Simone's "Sea Lion" is a cornucopia of harmonies and succulent vocals. Taste this sour apple lollipop with a bite of sweetness.

Here is the live version:

This is the other track that has me under her hypnosis: "So Sorry"

Title: "Good News" in Greek
In My Head: "Hide And Seek" by Imogen Heap

Mine Ord

2009-02-23T20:59:00.009-05:00

Words of My Blog
Listens of the Day:
"Happy is a Yuppie Word" by Switchfoot
"Stars" by David Crowder Band
"Wake Up" by Leeland
"Other Side of the World" by KT Tunstall
"1907" by Phoenix

P.S. If you want to do this really cool word collage as well, the site is Wordle.

In My Head: The fragment of a song that I just wrote. It's called Bamboo and currently lasts about 10 seconds or so. I'll post it on here very soon, as well as the Brett Dennen show post. ;)
Title:"My Words" in Norwegian

Глубоко Синий и Зеленый

2009-02-08T09:36:00.008-05:00

"...Deep blue and green, color of her eyes lookin' at me, early in the morning..."

So, I woke up this morning with "Easier" by Joe Purdy in my head because I went on a walk and listened to it on repeat last night. The song is about a relationship that is starting to get hazy, which has nothing to do with my situation at all. But, I began thinking that that song is a subliminal reminder to not put the hope of your existence into someone else.

I am learning. I am in training. I want to be that cloud that gets frustrated and tired with being a nomad and decides to take a rest as a fog. I want to stop searching for that place of contentment in myself. I want to feel satisfied with myself. I want to feel full, to feel complete.

Joe Purdy's "Easier" has one line that goes "Are we gonna get to paint this town deep blue and green, color of your eyes lookin' at me early in the morning". For 45 minutes while messing with Facebook and YouTube, that line orbited all my thoughts.

I then decided to take another look at myself and see myself through new lenses: web-cam lenses. I took so many pictures of myself organically to peel away my fear and self-consciousness.

Here was my inspiration:

Title: "Deep blue and green" in Russian
In My Head: See above ;)

Talvez Caio Para Você

2009-02-05T19:03:00.011-05:00

Remember this?

Landon Pigg's "(Falling In Love At The) Coffee Shop" left a melodic echo in my ears months after I saw this commercial. I honestly do not know this artist very well yet; I just wanted to share this winter-y little ditty.

Here's the whole song:

I always want to drink hot chocolate or tea when I play this. I also get the craving to go to the Gryphon and pick up some tea...Happy Sipping!

Title: "Maybe I'm Falling For You" in Portuguese
In My Head: "God Only Knows" by The Beach Boys

Les diamants Et les Perles Dans Vos Cheveux

2009-02-01T09:37:00.013-05:00

On Friday night, I had the pleasure of watch The Darjeeling Limited for the first time with two of my favorite people: Julia, my suitemate, and her boyfriend, Jason. If you ever a get a chance to see it, take it. Takes place in India, and about three brothers. That's all I'm spilling. In the footsteps of Nike, just see it.

Before the movie, there is a short film entitled Hotel Chevalier. At the three minute mark of this thirteen minute short, an accordian opens to an unfamiliar, but catchy and lovely tune, followed quickly by a man's comparing his lovely lady to some French woman. It comes from Jason Schwartzman's iHome, before answering the door to find Natalie Portman asking the exact question the audience is: "What's this music?"

While watching this, I grabbed a post-it pad and a pink pen to scribble some of the lyrics to google them later and unveil this precious musical not-quite-antique baby ruby.

Note: Even though it's a short film, it's rated R, so I am giving you the first part as a free sample. If you actually want to taste the entire cone, look it up on YouTube.

"Where Do You Go To, My Lovely" by Peter Sarstedt, a one hit wonder from 1969.
I did not find a video that I like for this song, but I'm sure the film snippet was a chocolate-covered pretzal - sweet with a little bite.

Title: "Diamonds And Pearls In Your Hair" in French
In My Head: "Put A Record On" by Unkle Bob (star of the next post)

Vous remercier Glen Pour Rappeler de M'Etre Reconnaissant

2009-01-29T17:13:00.006-05:00

Today was one of those days where all the pieces come together to make something cooler than you first imagined. I submitted my RA application today,which I thought was going to kill me due to my procrastination. But, He is gracious enough to cut me some slack, even when I don't deserve it.

I am oh so very pleasantly surprised and happy about where I am right now. If the weather was warmer, I would sit under a tree, complete with that old checkboard cloth, Paper Towns by John Green, my iPod, and some homemade iced tea. As for me, right now, I choose to write my blog with wet socks, Earl Grey, some homework calling my name, and a board game waiting for my piece.

Oh! One last thing, before I offer up an incredible song. On February 10th, I am going to see Brett Dennen at the World Cafe Live in Philly with my Papa!! Also, if there are any Ben Kweller fans out there who read this blog (doubt it), if you pre-order his new album, you get a free autographed poster. Awesome, right?

I chose this song for two reasons. One-I love Glen Phillips (former lead singer of Toad the Wet Sprocket). I think he's a genious and a wise man. He's the one to go to for beautiful, sheer honesty in music. Thank you, Chico, for introducing me to this ringmaster of acoustic brilliance. Two-The song's called "I Don't Need Anything (That I Don't Already Have)". I need to listen to this song more often because it takes the sleep out of my eye in order to accurately see how blessed I am.

P.S. I ususally fast from music on Thursdays. I didn't listen to any though today. =) Can't say the same for last week.

P.P.S. Correction: Fleet Foxes' entire album needs to be on my snow playlist. Amazing snow soundtrack that I highly recommend. More on that later.

Title: "Thank You Glen For Reminding Me To Be Thankful" in French
In My Head: The awesomeness of the song "A Joyful Noise" by the same oh so magnificant G. Phil.

LasciarLo Nevica

2009-01-22T17:29:00.003-05:00

I couldn't take it. I love my blog, but I have been holding back from posting more than once a week in order for readers to savor the musical nectar and keep wanting more. So, here I am again.

Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes...

Snow is magical. Any arguments?

Surprisingly, I have never made a snow playlist officially until now, but there are specific songs that I do listen to, just not in a physical playlist. I have over fifty playlists, but I didn't have a snow one. Better late than never.

I'm On My Way by Rich Price
(Falling In Love At The) Coffee Shop by Landon Pigg
All That I Want by The Weepies
Send Me On My Way by Rusted Root
Covered In Snow by William Fitzsimmons
Northern Sky by Nick Drake
Hold You In My Arms by Ray LaMontagne
You Are The Everything by Redbird
Much Farther To Go by Rosie Thomas
Lydia by Slaid Cleaves
White As Snow by Jon Foreman
One Part Love by Jeffrey Foucault
Lovers In Japan (Acoustic Version) by Coldplay
Star Mile by Joshua Radin
Sunday Best by Augustana
Winter Song by Ingrid Michaelson & Sara Bareilles
All My Days by Alexi Murdoch (anything by him, actually)
St. Patrick's Day by John Mayer
Heroes & Thieves by Vanessa Carlton
Lion's Mane by Iron & Wine
How Deep Is Your Love by The Bird & The Bee
The Chain by Ingrid Michaelson
Dreams by The Cranberries
White Winter Hymnal by Fleet Foxes

"All Of My Days" by Alexi Murdoch, live at the Mercury Lounge. Care for a sample?

Title: "Let It Snow" in Italian
In My Head: "Sea of Love" by Cat Power

Smør Ansikt

2009-01-18T01:56:00.000-05:00

One of my dream jobs is a film soundtrack producer. I love the art and technique of picking out music tailored to the scene. This post is allowing me to dip my toes in. Here is a short film is called Butterface, and it's about a guy working up the courage to talk to the girl who is sitting beside him on the train. My music selection for this short film would be "Plasticities" by Andrew Bird from the Daytrotter sessions. Watch the film alone first, then play "Plasticities" in the background. I was deliciously pleased with the combination.

Title: "Butter Face" in Norwegian
In My Head: "Wedding Dress" by Derek Webb

Een Meisje Op Een Draad

2009-01-11T01:07:00.004-05:00

So, it is an early Sunday morning. I have spent mine so far watching Counting Crows perform live at the Sound Stage on the channel trying to be the next PBS. "Rain King" is an incredible song, but I still have not given Counting Crows the appreciation they deserve. Their latest album entitled Saturday Nights, Sunday Mornings :) was only a name until I saw it unfold like a morning glory on the television. Counting Crows does not get much gratitude, it seems. Rolling Stone wrote an article in their favor. I didn't need some Rolling Stone writer to tell me that I shouldn't judge a book by its cover. All I needed to do was to take just one tired minute of my own and donate it to a man who had big eyes overflowing with passion and honesty with what he was singing. "On A Tuesday In Amsterdam Long Ago" was introduced by lead singer Adam Duritz as "the same song as 'Accidentally In Love' but from a distance".

"She's a carnival driver
Hung in the sky
Cutting through time
Like a memory
Strung on a wire

The color of anything
Fades in the air
But she is the film
Of a book of the story
Of the smell of her hair"
That is the que to the end of words.

Title: "A Girl On A Wire" in Dutch
In My Head: "Come Around" by Counting Crows

Jordbær I Sommertiden

2009-01-09T08:04:00.007-05:00

This is my winter sun-shower.

Fleet Foxes is becoming one of my favorites. I have been holding back this gem until January, because I feel like this month is more wintery than December. "White Winter Hymnal" has been marinating to perfection until its present release. A friend of mine described the video for "White Winter Hymnal" as beautiful. I agree, but it is much harder to describe...I wish more songs were as captivating as this one.

This is for my professor, whose birthday is today. It's very birthday-esque, if you think about it.

Title: "Strawberries In The Summertime" in Norwegian
In My Head: "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz

Somos Nuvens, Nós Somos Cochichos

2009-01-06T09:52:00.001-05:00

Shara Worden is known as My Brightest Diamond. I'm going to let her do the talking.

Title: "We Are Clouds, We Are Whispers" in Portugese
In My Head: "Oh No" by Andrew Bird (My sister bought this song on iTunes, meaning I cannot claim it as my own.)

In De Stilte Van De Tuin

2009-01-05T11:56:00.005-05:00

Frustrated is the young lady who cannot find the opening scene of the Lake House,but who eventually did. The movie itself does not satisfy, but the first few minutes could have been worth the price tag. The film opens with guitars echoing each other leading to the silky strings. "(I Can't Seem To) Make You Mine" sounds like a sweet late winter rain. To match this luscious symphony, the first minute of the film displays lines of letters as if they are clouds being driven by the wind. Ink dances from the penmenship, imitading the graceful smoke from a Marlboro.

Title: "In The Silence Of The Garden" in Dutch
In My Head: "Writing To Reach You" by Travis

Natale hilare et Annum Faustum!

2008-12-22T21:18:00.007-05:00

Here's my Christmas gift of my readers. I doubt there are many, but that doesn't matter. That means that there is just enough to gather around a small bonfire in this cold sting of a winter and sip on hot chocolate while I attempt to play Sofia Luz, my guitar. There are enough mugs in my house for the thousands,yet so few of us who never grow ill of unwrapping a new, shiny song or artist. There's nothing better than finding an artist of the past. But, if the artist is still alive, heck, you probably have the opportunity to see him/her/them show off their musical chops at pretty cool venue.

My petite Christmas gift to you is a list of my resources; I'm telling you how to have my never-satisfied eye for music.

Paste Magazine http://pastemagazine.com/ Where I read about my favorite artists

Stereo Gum http://stereogum.com/ Where I can get free downloads of songs by new underground bands

Daytrotter http://daytrotter.com/ Where I can discover new bands while picking up live sessions for free

Pandora http://pandora.com/ Where I can create my own radio stations tailored by what I already listen to and enjoy while the station unveils new artists for me with every use

MSN Music http://music.msn.com/inconcert/ Where I can watch my favorite mainstream artists perform live with amazing picture and sound quality (vs. YouTube)

YouTube http://youtube.com/ Where I can find ancient and sheer music videos, as well as see live footage of a bucket and a half of my favorite artists

MySpace http://myspace.com/ Its music makes up for what Facebook lacks; where I discovered some of favorite artists of all time; artists themselves offer free downloads and display blogs all in one place

More on Christmas...
That's all, folks! Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays! (You'll hear from me before '09 ;)

Title: "Happy Holidays!" in Latin
In My Head: "Snow Angel" by Over The Rhine

Ho Raccolto I Pezzi Quando mi Sono Svegliato

2008-12-21T18:36:00.004-05:00

1) This one's too quiet for words. Watch this:

2)http://www.brushfirerecords.com/index.php/home Go to the "Featured Track" on the right hand side. It's a masterpiece of remix. Kinda makes you wanna dance. It makes my dad play his African drums and believe that Jack Johnson is a bad business man for not having the song be up for sale.

Title: "I picked up the pieces when I woke" in Italian
In My Head: "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again" from Phantom Of The Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber

La Dirò Che Ho a Mente

2008-12-18T14:52:00.010-05:00

http://beemp3.com/download.php?file=708355&song=Lost+And+Found
Listen to "Lost and Found" by Phoenix (I found a player for it!!!)

My fragmented description:
in red and brick flannel
Princton Record Exchange shirt
gray sweatpants and black socks
in my family room
2:50 in the afternoon of a hazy, glowing Thursday
hair in a new creation out of my face
blast "Lost and Found" from computer
dance moves attempt to be as cool as the music
attempt fails
let my short brown locks drape my face until I shake it out, smelling Garnier

An amazing French band = Phoenix. My new amore!
Hint: Lead singer's girlfriend is Sofia Coppola

Title: "I'll Tell You What I Have In Mind" in Italian
In My Head: "PM's Love Theme" by Craig Armstrong (not sold in the U.S.)

Minha Sinfonia Perfeita Perdida Longa

2008-12-17T14:08:00.009-05:00

*Blissful Sigh* Ahh! My soul can rest!

The past hour and a half I have been searching for a key. This key has been lost for years. That glorious, delicious relief when that key is found, or heard, is the catalyst for the overflowing joy that comes with "Eureka!" That word is the absolute best description of the fireworks, the explosion, the volcano of rejoicing refreshment.

A certain song has haunted me for at least 3 years. The shavings and flakes I have held dear to me because within a few minutes inhabits a wonderous treasure, an eruption of flawless euphoria.

I can almost guarantee that you have heard this song. I've been hearing this perfect symphony in trailers throughout the years. You'll hear this, and remember it like an antique dream, covered in dust, but still as crisp as it can be.

What's disgusting is the fact that because it's part of a British film's, Love Actually, soundtrack that is not included on the American verion, it is not on iTunes. (Mind you, I had not seen this movie until about a year ago.) I would've had to pay 5 or 6 euros to get it sent to me from across the Atlantic pond to possess the majestic 2 minute song. But, a certain YouTube user gave a link to a free download of this uncommon gem. It is one of my favorites. My thirst of three long years is finally quenched.

Here, finally, is "PM's Love Theme" by Craig Armstrong, from the motion picture soundtrack of the British film, Love Actually. Yes!

Title: "My Perfect Long Lost Symphony" in Portugese
In My Head: An amazing masterpiece in which its name is no longer a distant, ghostly mystery. It is now alive and well. My ears are sponges, not being able to soak up its flavor to its full potential.

Muzikale Eenvoud Voor Kerstmis

2008-12-12T11:37:00.005-05:00

While preparing for the end of the semester, my friend Jocelyn and I have been listening to this song on repeat for the past week and a half. "Love Came Down At Christmas" by Jars of Clay tries to redefine what a Christmas song actually is. Holiday songs do not have to be fraught with a thousand musicians and flooded with voices in order to be a classic. Jars created this little ditty. It is very simple and humble. No organ or jingle bells necessary. The small instrumental break with a John Mayer-esque electic guitar subtley flaunts that a Christmas does not need to be complicated in order to be a great holiday symphony.

Jars of Clay used simplicity through the melody. Coldplay uses classicality through the actual production of the song. Here is an intimate, charming cover of "Last Christmas" by four talented ol' chaps.

Title: "Musical Simplicity For Christmas" in Dutch
In My Head: Coldplay's cover of "2000 Miles" by The Pretenders

Nessuno Ferro E Vino, Natale Giusto

2008-12-09T09:09:00.004-05:00

I can't explain how much I wanted to write about Iron & Wine again today. I won't, but I desperately want to. Oh well.

"Save This Dance" from The Nutcracker Prince
Directions:
1) Let the whole video load
2) Skip to 2:40
3) End at 3:50

This clip you don't really have to watch. It's just something I have enjoyed many years, this petite song. This is simply a black and white photograph of me when I was little, and I would dance like that.

"Grandfather's Dance" from the Nutcracker
Directions:
1) Let the clip load
2) Skip to 4:50
3) Play through the end
This snippet is my favorite part of The Nutcracker. It sounds so royal and beautiful. This is the kind of song that makes me wish I lived in a different time, so that I could dance to this with a slow, tidy rhythm. The beat is very much like a waltz, sounding poetic in the tune. Okay, enough directions.

I haven't mentioned the Weepies in a while. One of my favorite Christmas songs in the whole world. It's a beautiful, little ditty. This clip you should watch. It's "All That I Want". The melody paints those spots of pastels on the bright lights of an oil painting displaying the Christmas-coated harbor. Lovely, lovely song.

Title: "No Iron And Wine, Just Christmas" in Italian
In My Head: "Everybody" by Ingrid Michaelson

Die Komplikationen, die Sie auf verzichten könnten

2008-12-08T00:35:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking a lot about this song lately. It takes place when the ground becomes a floor of snowflakes. "Casimir Pulaski Day" is unassuming yet disarming because the melody, its tune, assumes that the song is happy, but within a few more seconds, Sufjan Stevens breathes ever so delicately "when I found out you had cancer of the bone".

One of the first times I was listening to it I kept thinking that the song was going to end many times before it actually did. But, then the story would not have been over. "Casimir Pulaski Day" is a hard listen. Like I said previously, the tune is not what defines the song, like Coldplay's "Clocks" for instance. The song is bleached by the lyrics, creating little holes in the happy melody.

I have a bad tendency of forgetting Sufjan's talent. This track is a healthy reminder of his soft-spoken creative brilliance. No doubt I will mention more thoroughly in the future.

One last note, this song is sung through a microscope because those subtle details that are ignored, or are so briefly recognized that they dissipate immediately are those same details that Sufjan pays attention to. Lines like, "I could see what you were reading" are loaded statements. By adding this simple, neglected line, personality is illuminated. He cares about about her. He wants to know what's going on her head at that specific time. Sufjan cares about this girl even down to the frays of her thoughts, where they are rooted. He is in love with her. That line just being there says so much. I challenge you to find deeper meaning in those otherwise ignored lyrics. Those words are there for a reason, whether to rhyme or give a mysterious wink, find out, guess the purpose. My bible professor reminded me of this with the song "Jezebel" by Iron & Wine (deserves a whole new post specifically). Okay, enough babbling. Get listening!!

Homemade music video depicting the story painted by Mr. Sufjan Stevens. Very interesting and completely from a fraction of the soul. I say that because it takes drive to commit to creating a video like this for such an intense song. Not bad.

William Fitzsimmon's covering the song. (I've posted this video already, but it should be watched again.) One of my favorite gentlemen justs plays this on the couch. How lovely =)

Title: "The Complications You Could Do Without" in German
In My Head: "Casimir Pulaski Day" by Sufjan Stevens

this is NOT an ordinary post

2008-12-07T02:03:00.002-05:00

My soul decided to scream its way out of me tonight, and the rest of me picked up the pieces, fixing a puzzle early this Sunday morning.

I have been difficulty seeing the light people keep mentioning to me about that shines ever so gently yet brightly. But, I am blind. And I sort of wish everyone else was, too.

If everyone was blind, then I believe that we could truly, and honestly see in each other. Beauty can more easily blossom when no one's pesticide looks poison it.

I was thinking about the concequences I have created because of what I think about myself. I starve for compliments on my personality despite my blindness. They speak a different language in which I know few words.

I am writing to tell the adventure, the story that happened to me in the hour of eleven. I say this because it was not seen from a human eye, but a camera, capturing specific yet blurry shots. This isn't worth the hype my words are creating. To me, the hype is half the fun. Here are the shots for you in order. They are fuzzy because the pen didn't kidnap them and throw them violently onto my old bible notebook paper until the early twelve. Take peek through my lenses.

Pause. Background information first. I finished watching the decent, corny film called Penelope. It's good, not fantastic, but it got me thinking. I can't keep punishing myself for just being who I am. There is no need to defend myself and what I believe when no one is on the fighting side. I am Don Quixote.

Here it is. "How Will He Find Me" by The Weepies is a stream flowing past my ear drums.
I walk the black path contrasting the thin white spread on both sides. I silently cry a little. The light upon the hill of Walton reveals the sweet of what's left in my eyes and now resting on my cheeks ever so gently.

(I walk pass Walton) I softly stomp my way to a dark fork in the pavement, mediating on the lack of love I receive because of the lack of respect that I supply for myself. My eyes fight the stream to see the vivid illumination that is now the centerpiece of my sight. The song is still looming.

I am welcomed by stamps left by snow-bottomed shoes. I holt at the center of the glowing, softly beaming twinkles hugging the gazebo. As the song concludes, it cues my tears to fall.

I take my time to get to the edge, to see the solid reflections with fuzzy edges of street lamps lining the hollow paths across the pond. A heart carved by a human hand in the snow rests in the corner. Silence still reigns from my earbuds.

My icy toes move like a sloth leaving the gazebo with "Dancing Alone" by Ashlee Simpson. Even now, I cannot despise any part of her in any way because she has given me this single song which has allowed me to grow one white spray rose with every listen.

I leave, walking up the path, watching light dance upon the thin concrete coating half the pond. I stop for a second. The sweet gets caught, entangled in the light, I imagine. My lips are roughly dry, yet my tears can't satisfy.

I pass their voices for that is all I know. I dig deeper into my hood as I continue up the steep. As I cautiously reach the top, a boy takes wide steps up the hill at the top towards me, where I oversee Gough beyond the second pond. I descend before I can find out what he sees.

I trudge down to the gazebo to find at the mouth of it that two knotted hands attached to two cloudy breaths from two shy smiles claim the place I recently abandoned. The minature mount of Walton spills tangerine light all over the ground, even on the snow. It catches the sweet probably, pulling me back down the path toward the building I call home. My eye arrests the hands in union soon create two lips in a bow. The song has ceased to play.

There are very few moments in which music cannot properly nor accurately describe. This is one of those moments.

They take my security away. I'm not particularly nor completely settled into my skin. They are. They know themselves and each other. They could admire one another whole-heartedly.

I am numb. I cannot feel my walking pattern, the beats of my heart, not even the inhale that is being taken in my mouth. I feel nothing except drops of watery Hershey kisses dripping from the corners of ever so blue eyes. "The Blower's Daughter" by Damien Rice calls for this.

I roughly glide back down the path, stealing a pre-made snowball from the bridge's ledge. I smooth the edges delicately like a stream soothes the coarse spots away. This sphere made from, at its core, water, is the collection of comments about my personality that I hold ever so dear. I nurture these words and try to make them echo in my head forever.

I reach the opening of the soccer field. I rebel. I walk on the curb, defying the footsteps that spot the snow to my left and do not dent any more the white meadow to my left. I walk discreetly passed not to disturb the sleeping snowflakes.

I proudly smash the collection of flakes and thoughts in front of Gough, curious to see what will happen without them, without it.

I stare through the archway to the ledge. My sunken palms upon it dissipate the flakes and awake my nerves. "Loveson ♥ g" is what I melt. "'Lion's Mane' by Iron & Wine" is further sucken, creating valleys of flakes.

"by Iron & Wine" is later demolished due to construction of a snow castle, standing proud from many yards away, basking in the light.

Créé Par L'Homme de De de Fils

2008-12-01T23:32:00.004-05:00

I just came back from a date with Him.

Once again, my eyes are opened like a baby girl, with my big blue eyes trying to make sense of the world around me. I still can't make full sense of it even now. He never ceases to impress me.

My picks:
"Send Me On My Way" by Rusted Root
"Good Love Is On The Way" from the Village Sessions by John Mayer
"You Are The Everything" by R.E.M.

Christ(mas) picks:
"O Holy Night"
"What Child Is This"
"Partial and Incomplete"
"Silver Bells"
All by Sleeping At Last.

(Nod to Chico for giving me the Ghosts of Christmas Past EP.)

Title: "Created By The Son Of Man" in French
In My Head: His harmonies

Il Ragazzo Nella Bolla

2008-11-27T13:01:00.005-05:00

On Tuesday night when I was coming home from Princeton Record Exchange, I was in the car with my dad, and this song came on. I had not heard it in years and years.

My dad is a huge Paul Simon fan, so I know Mr. Simon pretty well. I remember we wrote letters to him asking to have dinner at our house. They were never sent.

Wide-Eyed and Mystified is "The Boy In The Bubble"

The song with John Mayer:

Title: "The Boy In The Bubble" in Italian
In My Head: "The Boy In The Bubble" by Paul Simon

Mijn Geweldige Liefde

2008-11-24T12:37:00.007-05:00

Remember in my last post how I was lonely? Yeah, that feeling has disappeared, thanks to a certain someone...

Last night, I went to see Ingrid Michaelson at the Theatre of the Living Arts in Philadelphia.
I had such a great time, I can't even say.

I met the new love of my life, Ingrid's second opener: Mr. Newton Faulkner. He is one of the most unique artists I have ever met. He opened with his set with "Pure Imagination" from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. No joke. HJ Mills is lonely no more.

I'm pretty tired because my week has been crazy, so I'm going to close with the essence of Mr. Faulkner. More on the show later.

Title: "My Great Love" in Dutch
In My Head: "Everybody" by Ingrid Michaelson

Will Mich Hinunter Bringen

2008-11-22T17:01:00.006-05:00

Slightly deliciously melancholy am I. I say this because after observing the relationships around me, I have come to see that I am lonely en peu. Everybody gets lonely every once in a while and today is that day. Watching rom-coms instead of getting a jump start on homework, as well as lack of sleep, is probably contributing to this petite ache.

A more artitculate description of my current temperament would be a song by Ingrid Michaelson. (Huh, that's funny. I'm going to see her tomorrow. What a coincidence...)

No, seriously. "Oh What A Day" is my actual, true mood. But, since I have already written about that song, on to the next one.

Let's see...

"Gravity"

John Mayer is one of my favorite artists. I love how I already know exactly what he's saying just by hearing the first 30 seconds of a song. His emotions seep from every note that his guitar

"Gravity"doesn't lay all of the cards on the table. The definition of the song is whatever each listener needs it to say. It is like acetaminophen, accomodating whatever ails me.

Title: "Wants To Bring Me Down" in German
In My Head: "Belief" by John Mayer

*I'm seeing Ingrid Michaelson tomorrow!! I hope that my blog has exposed you enough to this lovely chica's musical brilliance. Post about the show on its way!*

Skelett, das Sie mein Freund sind

2008-11-21T21:18:00.002-05:00

My friend, Megan, is crazy in love with this song and artist.

Try listening to it after having 4+ generous cups of 3 types of tea (blue eyes, mango green, and organic peppermint and oasis) from The Gryphon, in the car with a few chicas who can't stop making you laugh, around 9pm, when you can see the stars trying to make a good impression through the bare trees, windows down, blasting Regina Spektor and this song, attempting to spit out the words you know on que.

Kate Nash's "Skeleton Song"

Title: "Skeleton, You Are My Friend" in German
In My Head: "Be Okay" by Ingrid Michaelson

*Still no outlet for excitement...Attempting to make Jesus-related baby collages. Found out that my RA aka Megan looks like Ingrid sometimes. So funny...2 days!!*

Ridere Forte e Lungo e Chiaro

2008-11-20T23:41:00.004-05:00

Let me tell you one thing about me...

Title: "Laugh Loud and Long and Clear" in Italian
In My Head: "Giving Up"

*I am seeing Ingrid Michaelson on Sunday night at the Theatre of the Living Arts. Like a child who can't wait for her birthday party, I can't even find a proper outlet to express my delight. I feel like frolicing. That may sound scary, but that's how much honey sweet joy I am bottling up. 3 days and counting...*

El Concierto de la Ropa Sucia Para Nadie

2008-11-18T18:06:00.000-05:00

I sing in the laundry room. The only way that anyone could ever know this is
1) if I told you like I am now, or
2) you live in Gough and accidentally heard me from the neighboring seminar room or walked in the laundry room yourself.
I do this because the acoustics in there are stunning. A gentle, whispy echo fills the room like smoke fraught with music notes.

I only do laundry once a week, but with doing laundry comes numerous steps including the following:
1) Bring laundry and put it in washer. Wait 35 minutes.
2) Switch clothes from washer to dryer. Wait 50 minutes.
3) Pick up dry clothes and fold them. (This is the longest step)

Why did I just waste a few seconds of your life in that matter? I did this so that you can fluently understand my singing schedule. Steps 1 and 2 take mere minutes, but I stick around to finish whatever song I am fa-la-la-la-la-ing. Step 3 is the best because I turn into a dorky college student version of Snow White. Instead of whistling, I sing, but no cute little animals with big eyes enter my presence.

The track that has been echoing the off-white cinderblock walls lately has been "The Chain" by Ingrid Michaelson. My fellow ladies on my hall have actually begun to get acquainted with the words because I sing that song so darn much. Yeah, that's not even a joke. "The Chain" is so haunting that when the echo bounces gingerly against the walls, I think I sound amazing. I think I sound like her. This confidence is brief, let me tell you, but oh so lovely.

Last night, I decided to switch things up a little bit. I sang songs from the 1999 version of Alice in Wonderland. Yes, it is the one with Whoppi Goldberg, as it is apparently known. I sang "Will You, Won't You Join the Dance" and "Cherry Ripe". I believe the soundtrack won an Emmy (thank goodness; check it out because it is so creative and happy. Its filling is a handful of little ditties). I also added to my score selections from the animated Anastasia, back when I was 7. It is still one of my favorite movies to date. "Once Upon A December" and "Journey To The Past" were the two choices that humbly rang from my vocal chords.

"Once Upon The December" gives you a little snippet of my childhood...so nostalgic.

Title: "The Laundry Concert For No One" in Spanish
In My Head: "High and Low" by Greg Laswell

Ich Brauche Mehr Zulage

2008-11-16T17:03:00.003-05:00

Where you can you find songs about wanting more allowance, murderous tofu, and lungs projecting out of one's body due to shouting?

A faux British band on a beloved '90s animated kids' series, ofcourse.

The Beets was an amazing band on the Nickelodeon show, Doug. Doug Funnie and Skeeter Valentine loved The Beets with every one of their cells. When I was little and watched that show on a daily basis, I was a passionate fan, too. I could easily sing along to ridiculous songs about nothing. I thought this love of mine dissipated...until I came across this jewel. The video is horrendous and I can't watch most of it (due to graphic animated violence). Oh well. Listen to the splendid hard rock of The Beets!!

(Yes, I am young and immature enough to still grasp that childish joy of a silly, pretend band. I'm proud of it.)

Title: "I Need More Allowance" in German
In My Head: "Cherry Ripe" from Alice In Wonderland

Ehi Penso che Lei Sia Scanalato

2008-11-15T12:54:00.001-05:00

"Hey, I think you're groovy. Would you wanna see a movie with me?"

Hello, Backseat Goodbye. Chad Sugg is the most laid-back lyricist I have ever heard. He even confesses in "Technicolor Eyes":
"I like simple songs with pretty words
I tried poetry, but it's just no good
the pages get lost, besides I'd much rather sing to you"
I'm a little tired right now, so I'm going to let you explore his coolness on your own. I'll get back to you about Mr. Backseat Goodbye soon enough.

Title: "Hey, I Think You're Groovy" in Italian
In My Head: "The Silly Song" from Snow White

Qualcosa Di Speciale

2008-11-14T21:39:00.001-05:00

Here's another note on William Fitzsimmons.

He did a intimate cover of Sufjan Stevens' "Casimir Pulaski Day". This cover is simply lovely and musical bliss. Mr. Fitzsimmons did an incredible job. I'm going to let William speak for himself. *Backing away slowly with a faint, quiet smile*

Title: "Something Special" in Italian
In My Head: "Be Be Your Love" by Rachel Yamagata

Les Meurtriers

2008-11-13T10:55:00.004-05:00

The Killers.

My family despises their name. My question is have they ever heard of what they sound like...

I only have their first album, Hot Fuss, which stands alone compared to The Killers' more recent material. I remember despising the drastic constrast between Hot Fuss and Sam's Town. My attitude toward the latter has since converted. Sam's Town takes some getting used to, but will win your heart in the end. Apparently, these gentlemen have a new album that was just released. I haven't heard it, but am definitely planning on checking it out soon.

I first heard them before freshman year when they went on the radio. I knew them about six months ahead of time before they became mainstream. It's so interesting because The Killers do not sound as if they are from this time. I've said this about a few artists, I believe (at least A Fine Frenzy). I can't really describe them acurately...The Killers strangely make you revaluate what you see everyday. For example, "Read My Mind" is the script of those random bursts of thought.

"Read My Mind" is not only one of my favorite tracks by The Killers, but also claims one of the funnest videos of all time. It takes place on the streets of Tokyo, Japan. Both the song and video are exactly like Sour Patch Kids. You'll see why...

Title: "The Killers" in French
In My Head: "Love Story" by Taylor Swift (shocking, to myself)

Antiker Übertragungsweg

2008-11-11T16:09:00.012-05:00

His voice is like an antique trunk with its leather cracking, but still smooth and soft to the touch.
William Fitzsimmons has sad eyes that you can hear. It seems as if he is telling his listeners that if they don't take him seriously, they might as well not bother listening at all, but in a sense of being humble, polite, and respectful.

He writes often of his parents' divorce, on occasion from one of their perspectives. The lines he creates paints a picture of a hazy charcoal night that leaves hollow places to saturate with your imagination that melancholy, bittersweet dispair.

I see him standing, palms facing forward, showing that there is nothing left of him to share except through his lyrics and melody. Emotionally, he is giving his all, plunging into his core.

"When You Were Young" by William Fitzsimmons

My discussion on Mr. Fitzsimmons is not over yet.

Title: "Antique Trunk" in German
In My Head: a bunch of sad songs, tentatively "I'm Not That Girl" from Wicked

Namorava O Girar

2008-11-08T11:42:00.002-05:00

I love Coldplay passionately. I think they're lyrical and audio geniues. Those men (yes, there are other members of Coldplay besides the husband of Gwyneth) know their instruments and rhythms very well. I like Coldplay because they are the polka-dots amoungst the stripes. Coldplay creates "audio fireworks". This term is used in the description of my blog, but not referring specifically to Coldplay. The term does root in "Clocks" and "Lost!" by these British gentlemen. On the fourth of July this year, I was actually listening to Viva La Vida (Or Death And All His Friends) while my local fireworks show was taking place. Best soundtrack to eye-caffeine in my life--plan on repeating that in the future.

Here is a parody of "Viva La Vida" by Guy, Jonny, Chris and Will also known internationally as COLDPLAY!!

Title: "I Used To Woo The Whirl" in Portugese
In My Head: "All You Wanted" by Michelle Branch (nod to my selection for Karaoke Revolution this evening)

Plappern

2008-11-07T23:19:00.002-05:00

Aloha! This week has been completely insane!! Mid-terms and guests have been flooding my head and my room for the past week.

Here are some random thoughts that I have had in my head this week that have not been expressed yet in a blog entry until now:

Joshua Radin's Simple Things album is not as good as I thought it was. Reason being that "They Bring Me To You" is not the entire album. If it was, I would give it a big, bright, glitterly gold star. But, it's not. It should have been on the wonder of Unclear Sky or We Were Here. Oh well. The disc is eh.

On a recent walk around the soccer turf, I came to the realization, that to me, "Yellow" by Coldplay could be a love song from God. I know that's bold to say, but that's my interpretation. Yellow=His love. That's my opinion.

Steve Reynolds' "Save Your Best" is really good. I'm not describing it in anyway. Try it on for size (It's very Rich Price):

"Extraordinary" by Mandy Moore (yes, off her lastest release) and "Nolita Fairytale" by Vanessa Carlton are the main theme songs of where I am in life right now. Also, "Afterglow" by Vanessa Carlon. (Hint: If you don't like V. Carlton's first disc, don't quit on her. Her sophmore and third discs are awesome ;)

The film Win A Date With Tad Hamilton has a terrible soundtrack, excluding the tracks by John Mayer and Five For Fighting. Worst song choice ever occurs at the end. It's fresh in my mind since I just saw it for the first time.

I am crazy excited, but ultra confused about the fact that the magic of Mr. Sam Beam aka Iron and Wine is on the soundtrack for a film about vampires...

"Black Balloon" by The Goo Goo Dolls is such an autumn song. That's only season that comes to mind when I hear the violins of this melody. I'm not a fan of the video, but this song is so good and has to be heard during this season.

Title: "Babble" in German
In My Head: "Ballad Of An Opportunist" by Meredith Bragg

Geel

2008-11-03T23:52:00.010-05:00

Have you ever felt like there was a song you needed to hear subconsciously? Tonight I imported Coldplay's Parachutes into my laptop, my iTunes. I was so excited because I love Coldplay, but I just never owned their debut. "Yellow", ofcourse, is the signature off the album. That is the song is what I needed to hear.

I feel like the last time I truly drenched myself in "Yellow" was on my mission trip to West Virginia last summer. It was pretty late, and I remember sitting up front on our way to Wal-Mart blasting the melody as loud as we could. All us girls were obnoxiously singing along, with smiles like golden bananas. It was so refreshing to experience "Yellow" again, in a new setting surrounded by my numerous brothers and sisters. It was incredible.

So when I was importing the disc, I listened to "Trouble" first, then shuffle brought me back to nostalgia, back to this. I'm just sharing my petite little story about why this song is so close to my heart. That snippet memory is as precious and comforting as a dryer-fresh towel on a winter morning.

I normally detest Coldplay videos, but here is "Yellow" for your enjoyment, obviously more than mine.

Let's try the live version, shall we? From Sydney:

Coldplay is amazing, despite the opinions displayed proudly by some of my guy friends. So disappointing. Oh well--more Chris Martin and Co. pour moi =) More to come from these ol' British chaps.

Title: "Yellow" in Dutch
In My Head: "Yellow" by Coldplay and "The Chain" by Ingrid Michaelson

Je Garderai Chanter Votre Mélodie Douce

2008-10-30T23:58:00.006-04:00

Ever written a love song to the house you grew up in? Koji On The Roof has.

I heard about Koji On The Roof from my friend, Jocelyn, who hosted a benefit concert at our school for Invisible Children featuring Koji and Suburu Stallions (another post;) It was so awesome. It was a Wednesday, slightly awkward night for a show in the dining commons, but it was sweetly suprisingly wonderful. Jocelyn knows Koji (whose full name is Andrew Koji Shiraki) personally. That may not seem like a big deal, but it is to me.

I have always secretly wanted to have lots of friends who happened to be musicians. Hannah Jordan wants musician friends. Anyone play anything? I've got a friend for you right here. I want to absorb your creative juices just by being in your presence, if that is at all possible. Doubt it. Oh well.

If you like any of the following artists, you should really check out Koji: John Mayer, Iron & Wine, Joshua Radin, Greg Laswell, Brett Dennen, The Plain White T's, Jeffrey Foucault, Elliot Smith, Nick Drake, Sufjan Stevens, Ray LaMontagne, Backseat Goodbye, The Rocket Summer, and probably many more.He's a great musician who's a pretty good guy.

This is the last song he performed, the one about his house. It's awesome. To me, it sounds like a morning song. Very beautiful and very light. Recommended with Tazo Earl Grey because that cup and this song make a lovely, harmonious marriage at 7:30 in the am. Try it.

You like? Go to http://purevolume.com/kojiontheroof/ to listen to the studio version of this track. While you're at it, pick up three free mp3 downloads including a Wilco cover =) Koji is acoustic mango, in case you couldn't tell that already.

Title: "I Will Keep Singing Your Sweet Melody" in French
In My Head: "Can't Stop" by Leeland (totally high off of Jesus right now. Heck yes!)

Tourner La Page, Faire attention à Votre Vocation

2008-10-28T23:34:00.010-04:00

It is really sad. I have been on a spiritual, fairytale, Cloud 9 high for the past few weeks, but it is starting to fade. I think it has a lot to do with mid-terms in the near future and becoming self-aware of what I want to change in myself.

Yesterday, I went on my daily walk after class, and Kris Delmhorst's "To The Wire" came on. It was a great day after all of the anxiety of my psych paper melted into music notes containing Joshua Radin, Leona Lewis and Ms. Delmhorst. I didn't realize how much of that song seeped into my blood. I know what I don't like about myself, those little pieces of shyness left over from middle school; my quiet years. The track is so bittersweet because it's good to be reminded that I am stil the girl from way back when, but I am wiser now. I'm not trying to say I'm wise; What I mean is is that I am starting to settle into my own skin after many years of restlessness and doubt. Those whispering fears have definitely toned down, but have not completely faded. I am waiting to hit the bullseye of self-actualization...

Yes, all of these thoughts came from hearing "To The Wire" a mere three plays yesterday afternoon. I could keep flowing my stream of conciousness, but I still want to own your attention for a little while.

Kris Delmhorst knows what you need to say to yourself before you do. She's that good. Her music lets you know how you are doing, how you are feeling, and how to get better when you feel like you can't make that last top step. You feel like an idiot because her lyrics tell you what you need to hear, but deep down, you knew those words, too. That's what she does for me.

This track is so good, that you are going to have to hunt down this song. All I can find after an hour of searching are the 30-second preview clips of this song. First person to find the whole version of this song wins!! Email me if you find it, so I can post it =)

Title: "Turn The Page, Heed Your Calling" in French
In My Head: "Can't Stop" by Leeland

Mujer de Sr. Gibbard

2008-10-27T16:45:00.003-04:00

My friend, Rachel, just introduced me to the female counterpart of Ben Gibbard (Death Cab For Cutie, The Postal Service).I'm serious! She told me to listen to listen to this. If you don't believe me, then you need to watch this, even more so. Crazy.

I told you, right? I'm impressed. Yup, they're getting married.
This is Rilo Kiley, also known as one of Rachel's favorite bands in the whole wide world.

One of the guys of RK is in The Postal Service. Funny.

Good stuff...

YouTube found this video for me. I'm crying right now due to laughter. Hilarious, my friend. But then again, you know it doesn't take much to make me laugh. Very funny. That's better.

Watermelon Bubblicious for the eyes and ears, I'm telling you is what "Breakin' Up" tastes like.

Title: "Mr. Gibbard's Wife" in Spanish
In My Head: "To The Wire" by Kris Delmhorst

Seien Sie Gut

2008-10-25T16:16:00.000-04:00

Part Deux of Be OK is here.

"The Chain" is still on repeat. Let me just add one more post-it note to that track. The last minute and twenty seconds consists of a three-part round, as that is probably apparent if you saw the YouTube clip yesterday. It's so haunting. In a very strange way, the second half of the song reminds me of a contemporary, secular Gregorian chant. That may be bold to say, but the melody is so slippery..."The Chain" and Gregorian chants radiate that same feeling of mysterious beauty.

"Lady In Spain" is one track that I cannot decide fully how I feel about it. The beginning and the end are whispering you to sleep. I do love her impression of a trumpet during the instrumental. It's so cute, I can't even handle it. Although it's not one of my favorites, it's pretty and decent.

"Oh What A Day" is simply lovely, and is as smooth as marble. It's about basking in independence, which I can definitely relate to lately.

"Can't Help Falling In Love With You" reminds me so much of Greg Laswell's cover of "Girls Just Want To Have Fun". The songs themselves are so happy, but both artists perform them in a way that makes you want to shed a tear or two.

"You And I" defines Ingrid Michaelson as an artist. Her lyrics on this track put a spotlight on who she is: a fun, bubbly, adventurous, creative little chica. Her serious, melancholy side is missing, but the album together makes that apparent.

I was disappointed about how many covers and previously released songs were on Be OK. I was looking forward to a whole sleuth of new stuff, but it fell short. No doubt it's good, I just felt like less effort was put into this album for some reason. Oh well. It's different, and I can live with that. Go Ingrid!!

Title: "Be OK" in German
In My Head: "Be Be Your Love" by Rachel Yamagata

Prometa Não Prometer Mais

2008-10-24T20:45:00.002-04:00

Sorry, I haven't been around much lately. I have been listening to the same few songs over and over. Those songs are the ones I have already written about, including "Nolita Fairytale", "Come Thou Fount Of Every Blessing",and "Desert Sunrise". But, have no fear! I just received two new albums in the past week! Let me tell you about my little adventures this week.

I pre-ordered Ingrid Michaelson's new album from Barnes and Noble with a lovely gift card. I'm listening to it as I type. Be OK is her album, which has discovered the cloudy days that lie below Girls and Boys' numerous hours of sunshine. It is very acoustic and wears a straight face. No more cute little ditties, like "Far Away"; "Be OK" is pretty warm, but is repetitive. That may get annoying, but one track has had me possessed today.

"The Chain" has been on repeat in my head and in my iTunes. The melody was sometimes hard to perfect during the day when it was only heard in my head. She played this song when I saw her in June at Terminal 5 in Manhattan. I forgot about this song completely until I heard it again on the album. Ingrid M. never took this into the studio. The recording off of Be OK is live from her show in February at Webster Hall, also in New York. This was also the first time she played it in public. Pretty awesome. Here's the four-part round (v. three-part round on album) during the Hotel Cafe Tour earlier this year.

More later about Be OK and Koji On The Roof (see 'In My Head')...

Title: "Promise Not To Promise Anymore" in Portugese
In My Head: "The Chain" by Ingrid Michaelson and "Little Bird" by Koji On The Roof (near future post ;)

So I Suoi Occhi Nel Sole di Mattina

2008-10-21T23:59:00.001-04:00

I want to sleep so badly. Jesus got rid of the soap in my eyes. He gave me His sleeve.

With sleepiness comes tiredness. I want to curl up in cucoon of fleece and drift off on one of those steam clouds. That sounds pretty nice right about now. With tiredness sometimes brings randomness.

I keep forgetting how good The Bird and The Bee are. They're fantastic.

I think I have one song by them somewhere in my virtual files, but it isn't enough, especially when I begin to miss them like I am now.

Here is the light audio sleeping pill created by them entitled, "How Deep Is Your Love", covering The Bee Gees. Crazy good right here.

Title: "I Know Your Eyes In The Morning Sun" in Italian
In My Head: "Awakening" by Switchfoot

Ma Dernière Affaire d'Amour Musicale

2008-10-19T23:29:00.003-04:00

I cannot lie. I am not in the happiest of spirits because I desperately want to see Iron and Wine in NYC at Terminal 5 Monday, November 17th. Obviously, I can't go by myself, plus I underestimated the fare cost from Philly to NY by about $50. Yeah, not cool. If anyone is interested in going with moi, comment me or email me asap. To distract me from this recent sadness, I have enlisted a certain gentleman to make me feel better. Mr. Kweller was willing to help me.

I heart Ben Kweller. Chico introduced me to this musical wonder oozing with sunshine melodies. Mr. Kweller is dazzling, leading you to places that make you stop, and "Oh." Not a shocking "OH!", nor a sigh of an "oh". It is the kind of expression in which you find yourself presently surprised and satisfied at the marvel.

"Sundress" is a happy little ditty in which you will feel lonely the first time at hearing it because you'll want to learn the words to sing with him. Here is the live version (a little shakey, but still good):

"Commerce, Texas" reminds me of Stephen Kellogg and Old 97's(who are both AWESOME, by the way. Future post stars). This is a very cool song. Me like it.

He and I just began our love affair recently. I shall keep readers up to date of our latest endeavors. <333

Title:"My Latest Musical Love Affair" in French
In My Head: "Sundress" by Ben Kweller and "My Funny Valentine" by Over The Rhine

Tantas Histórias

2008-10-16T00:44:00.001-04:00

One of the simplest videos I have seen is by Brandi Carlisle for her song, "The Story". It's been on a GM hybrid commercial and Grey's Anatonomy. Crazy, right?

The song is purely delicious and echoes Alanis Morissette with a hint of country in this melody. She has said that she loves the dramatic tone from her voice, contrasting her personality.

Great late night song, so maybe you should wait a few hours...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNFIgIwNDXI

I love that theatre. I could easily live in there. Awesome cinematography and lighting here.

Title: "So Many Stories" in Portugese
In My Head: "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" by Sufjan Stevens (see old post ;)

Il Mio Cuore Sembra Sapere Sempre

2008-10-13T16:15:00.001-04:00

I am happy. I have been saying that a lot lately. I am fully content about where I am right now. I have taken for granted my freedom for the past few weeks, but not anymore. I'm good; so when someone asks me how I am, I can honestly tell her that I am good. Went for a little nature photoshoot/walk/iPod session. Just got back. Hannah Mills is very satisfied with her pictures and the song in her head.

"Nolita Fairytale" by Vanessa Carlton is awesome song. You probably think that "nolita" means something really cool in Spanish, Greek, or Italian. If you picked Italian, then congrats!! You get a gold star...kind of. It's the name of a baby town in Manhattan meaning, "North of Little Italy". She lived there for two years after "breaking up" with her record company and wrote her album Heroes and Thieves. I'm focusing on the "yay-happy-free-independent-unafraid-go-with-the-flow-nonchalant-creativeness" of "Nolita Fairytale" because that is how I feel.

I hope you feel just like I feel 'cause
I found some kind of fairytale =)

Title:"My Heart Always Seems To Know" in Italian
In My Head: "Nolita Fairytale" by Vanessa Carlton

我的愛，有一天你將死亡

2008-10-12T23:17:00.000-04:00

"I Will Follow You Into The Dark" is such a beautiful lullaby that it is decaying into cliche. Devastating, isn't it? Its exhuisiteness keeps being taken for granted. There are many arguments as to what the song is actually trying to say, but I like to cuddle up to a new theory everytime I hear it, especially one that reflects the mood I am in. A friend of mine told me that this song was about Ben Gibbard's grandmother. That's probably true since Chico is a pastor. I trust him. Whatever the song means, it is still great in my eyes. The video is for this is awesome, by the way. Most Death Cab videos are.

Here is the almost cliche of a masterpiece:

In June, I saw Ingrid Michaelson at Terminal 5 and was pleasantly suprised when she began playing this mellow-dy. Here is the performance I saw that night. Very good. Very talented young lady playing a delicously brilliant tune:

Title: "Love of Mine, Someday You Will Die" in Chinese
In my head: "They Bring Me to You" by Joshua Radin (I have been having him a lot in my head lately because I was preparing for his new disc, so I was listening to his old stuff. Now that I have Simple Things, that has been hogging my laptop pretty frequently this week. I am not complaining.)

Je Roule Sur Vos Rayons

2008-10-11T19:34:00.000-04:00

The first time I heard this song was on Thursday. It has been like a fog that won't settle in my mind since then. It is exactly what it's called. I know I just wrote about Mr. Dennen, but this song is becoming one of my favorites. That's a big deal for me. Mr. Dennen compares himself to a lizard. That's not even the best part. There's this line, "Music drips from your lips like sweet sips of a summer's kiss". I just stopped dead in my tracks. Literally. I was on my way back from class to my dorm and my steps came to a halt. Yeah, it's that good (to put it lightly).

Here is "Desert Sunrise" aka Audio Sinking Sand.

Title: "I'm Coasting On Your Rays" in French
In my head: "Just Like The Moon" by Brett Dennen

Jeg Føler meg Temmelig

2008-10-10T21:23:00.001-04:00

So, today I have had a fabulous day. I am slighly tired, but "tired with joy". I stole that from Snow Patrol's "Hands Open" (awesome song). Anyway, I woke up early to work on my psychology paper after breakfast and before class. I had to finish the last half today, stressing me out and pushing me for time. At 2 something, I handed it in and then went on a web adventure.

I had to find what my hair would look like by the end of the day and would last a very long time. I found my dream haircut in an old picture of Jennifer Lopez. Yes, I know. It's just her hair, though. My roomate cut my hair and let me tell you...

I look marvelous. Sorry to sound cocky or obnoxious, but I do.
I look really good.
I feel really good.
I feel pretty.
Oh so pretty.
I feel pretty, and witty, and bright.
And a pity any girl who isn't me tonight.

Take a peek at the original:

The funny part is is that my hair is almost the same length as Maria's, maybe a little shorter. For those of you freaking out and dying to see my newly sheered locks, I will be having a photoshoot this weekend with my friend to pose with my new 'do and it will probably go on Facebook. Calm down.

I have never seen West Side Story. I should. It's been on my to-do list since I don't even remember when. Should get to watching that soon.

Title: "I feel pretty" in Norwegian
In my head: "Back To You" by John Mayer

Solo I Crepacuori Mi Hanno Dato Avvista

2008-10-08T23:02:00.004-04:00

I am still floating on that pillow cloud I mentioned earlier. I found out its name. It's called Cloud 9, tentatively nicknamed Joshua Radin.

I am sinking in "They Will Bring Me To You" off of his brand new Simple Things release from a few weeks ago. I feel like it's so rare that I ache for a song that I own and do not have to worry about listening to iTunes' 30 second previews fifty times in one sitting to satisfy. Its title sort of freaked me out a little bit, but then I heard this and felt like a filled parachute, taking its time to glide to earth. Here is the song that makes me melt like my Ben & Jerry's in the "freezer" of my fridge at school. Quickly.

Joshua Radin is amazing, P.S. Flaws are hard to find on Simple Things. The only one that I can find after listening the entire thing twice is the fact that "I'd Rather Be With You" sounds too much like Jason Mraz. That's it. That's the worst I can say. He is so very talented and I am just sad that I cannot see him live anytime soon to soak Simple Things in live. If you have a problem with Radin, you have a problem with me. Seriously. Kidding...sorta.

Title: "Only the Heartaches Have Given Me Sight" in Italian
In My Head: "These Photographs" by Joshua Radin v. "Disturbia" by Rihanna

Canções Felizes

2008-10-08T00:55:00.001-04:00

I am so very happy right now. I have a tendency to think the worst, but tonight I was blessed enough to receive more than I would have ever asked for. I found hope. I love hope. It comes from prayer, friends, hugs, and songs. Here is my happy playlist with commentary, of both song and video, one that makes me float away on a pillow cloud.

1) "Blessed" by Brett Dennen always makes me realize how over the top I can get sometimes. This song pinches me, making me remember to get over myself and that my "problems" aren't worth stressing over so much. Humble, self-aware and grateful are the traits that find in myself when I listen to this. Maybe you will feel the same way.

2)Watching David Crowder Band taking myspace pictures can potentially cure a bad day. I probably love watching this clip too much, but oh well. Its humor for me keeps growing because I anticipate what is to come. So funny. I wish I was best friends with these awesome gentlemen.

3)"Love" by Great Big Sea is the song I crank up and dance obnoxiously to when my roommates are out of town for the weekend. Yeah, when Kristine and Tanzania were gone two weeks ago, I put this song on repeat and went insane. I doubt that anyone gets as excited about this song as I do, but that's okay. I claim it mine. You can borrow it if you like. It's not on YouTube, sorry!! Look it up!!

4)"Dela" by Johnny Clegg is my audio fix. Yes, that is a drug reference because I get so high off of hearing this song. It's so ironic because for the past few months, I defined this song as freedom to myself. The song isn't like that at all; it's about the vulnerability of falling in love. If you see me running around campus,this is the song that is oozing into my ear drums. Future blog post devoted to this song only, by the way. This is a cute video...if you're a girl who likes Little Mermaid =)

5)"Dancing Alone" by Ashlee Simpson is my guilty pleasure. I should be arrested, kind of guilty. I cannot lie though. This song has made me appreciate my independence in lonely times. It tells me that things are going to be okay and that I don't need all of the answers right now. With every listen, I cherish who I am a little more each time because in between listens, I grow. It also definitely helps that I just love to jump up and down to this song on a late summer night in my favorite skirt with my hair out one foot from my head. Well, she did something right.

6)My Favorite Song. (Not telling! =P Not many people remember, care, or even know about it. You can know that this song is as much a part of me as my eyes are blue. That may sound extreme, but I have been in love with song since I was twelve. It's just like Advil to me or a tranquilizer gun sometimes. This brings me back to Hannah Mills, to where I am supposed to be mentally and emotionally. It's paradise for me on Earth; it's a free all-inclusive vacation draining into my ears.)

7)"Painting By Chagall" by The Weepies gushes luscious harmonies that will make you weak in the knees. See the video in an old post devoted to this favorite band of mine.

Title: "Happy Songs" in Portugese
In My Head: "Far Far" by Yael Naim (previous post about it)

Il Louise Ha Preso Solo Da Me la Poesia Innocente

2008-10-04T14:44:00.002-04:00

Sam Beam is a magician. If that name rings a bell, it's not because he is a magician. He is the mastermind also called Iron and Wine. I just like to think of him as a mysterious charmer because his lyrics just make me stop dead in my tracks. Everytime I listen to anything by Iron and Wine, I will not pay attention to what he is actually saying. I am much too occupied hearing the instruments sway and how the song is orchestrated. It's not until the fourth of fifth play that I hunt down the lyrics like it's a thirst.

I recently discovered that Iron and Wine is the perfect soundtrack for not only in Princeton, 10 minutes from my hometown, but also at Eastern at night. Sam Beam can hang out with my anytime he wishes.

"History of Lovers" - Reminds me of Whiskeytown at the beginning.Such a catchy, prideful song. Awesome.

"The Trapeze Swinger" - Bittersweet audio scrapbook.

Title: "Louise Only Got From Me Innocent Poetry" in Italian
In My Head: "Fast Car" by Wyclef Jean feat. Paul Simon

Afine el corazón para cantar Tu gracia

2008-10-03T11:08:00.002-04:00

Sufjan Stevens is incredible. I don't even want to say anything else. Let him humbly convince you himself. Here is his cover of "Come Thou Font of Every Blessing". It may be tailored to the holiday season, but I cannot let go of this beauty.

Warning: I got shivers the first time I heard this.

Enjoy with some English Breakfast or Earl Grey.

Title: "Tune my heart to sing Thy grace" in Spanish
In My Head: "Work" by Jimmy Eat World

Quelque Chose Arrive, C'est Pour Moi ?

2008-10-01T01:05:00.005-04:00

So, my youth pastor, who is also a close friend of mine, is the biggest Toad The Wet Sprocket fan on the planet. He introduced to the awe...someness of Toad and Glen Phillips, its lead singer/songwriter. For most of us in the dark, there are this early 1990's band that is underestimated and too often overlooked. I think they are just fabulous.

Thanks to Princeton Record Exchange in my native Jersey, I got two of their albums, Fear and Dulcinea. I highly recommend these brilliant gentlemen. Very talented folks.

My current favorite of theirs is called "Is It For Me". It's awesome. It's such a great, youthful song. Here's the original video.So old school and cool!! :

Now, here's where the fun begins. Spongebob and Patrick lip syncing to "Is Is For Me?". Awe...some. (Inside joke, sorry.)

Title: "Something is happening,is it for me?" in French
In My Head: "Before There Was Time" by Caedmon's Call

Farbenfreudig

2008-09-29T23:04:00.003-04:00

This is one of my favorite videos of all time. Rocco DeLuca and The Burden's "Colorful" is provocative and unexpected. 'Tis slighty risque, but genious none the less. Sample this energy drink of a video. I don't even like energy drinks, so what does that tell you?

Watch the latest Music Video by Rocco Deluca and the Burden from I Trust You to Kill Me | See Colorful Online | VH1.com

I think I'll have a countdown of my favorite videos soon...Stay tuned.

Title: "Colorful" in German
In My Head: "These Photographs" by Joshua Radin

Et Vakkert Rot Inni

2008-09-27T11:08:00.002-04:00

Yesterday taught me a lot.

I was on my walk with my iPod, exactly like what I do everyday for an hour or so. I was walking past the softball field from Eagle Hall and I saw this little beat up path. I love to explore, so without thinking it through, I was already on this path through the woods. Everyone on campus probably knew about this little mysterious way already and probably knew for a long time, but I didn't care. For around a half hour in the middle afternoon, I owned it. I couldn't leave. It was so beautiful and my soundtrack to these moments was perfection.

I was listening to Yael Naim's "Far Far". Months ago, iTunes offered this track as a free download and knowing that she is the mastermind of "New Soul". I had completely forgot it was on iPod. So, I just randomly started playing it...again...and again...and again...and again...

It was one of those songs where it hits so close to home, it's scary. I was a little girl absorbing my fresh, green surroundings and staring in pure vulnerable, naive wonder. It was amazing and refreshing. I heard words in that song that I had been needing to hear for quite some time.

"So shake it yourself now deep inside,
deeper than you ever dared,
deeper than you ever dared,
there's a beautiful mess inside"

I don't know myself as much I would like, nor do I love myself as much I want to. This simple song blossomed the need to know how to be Hannah Mills with self-appreciation. So, thanks Yael Naim for giving me that :-)

Here is the song that ignited my thirst for self-discovery:

Title: "A Beautiful Mess Inside" in Norwegian
In My Head: "Far Far" by Yael Naim

Il a Pendu Dans L'Amour Juste Pour Vous Dessiner S'Approche de

2008-09-26T11:07:00.001-04:00

Voila! Part 2 of Mat Kearney's genious (for now). I thought that because he impresses me with every track he puts out, I thought that I should go deep with his songs. Yesterday, I posted "All I Need", describing a love in the midst of Hurricane Katrina. I thought that was pretty intense and what the hey! Let's have another intense song from Mat, shall we? (My tone is trying to level out the heaviness that comes with this song.)

Here is "Girl America", which is such an incredible metaphor. It's an amazingly spiritual song, so check out the lyrics: http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/matkearney/girlamerica.html It grips you and won't let you go. This is the acoustic version on his acoustic EP for iTunes. Embrace it, you probably won't be able to help it.

Title: "He hung in love, just to draw you near" in French
In My Head: "Hold You In My Arms" by Ray LaMontagne (especially when he says "forever", holding it while stepping down in notes; see previous post for details;)

Forse è Finito Nero Ma Lei è Tutto Vedo

2008-09-25T20:01:00.001-04:00

One artist that echoes the autumn season in his sound is Mat Kearney. The cloudy months are best time to listen to this underestimated musician. I got so excited at the coffee house last weekend because as things were closing up shop, Kearney's "All I Need" played in the background. It was so subtle, but very beautiful and sincere. Yet, some of his tracks are more up front and bold. He is able to do so much with his music.

You might recognize the name because his songs "Undeniable" and "Nothing Left To Lose" have been on the radio in the past year or so ago. Plus, Grey's Anatomy fans should know him because his "Breathe In, Breathe Out" was featured on the show and its soundtrack. But, he is so much more than what he seems like, musically.

What I really love about him is the fact that his talent is like a stretched out hand that gently touches numerous genres. This boy can be very Greg Laswell-esque (G. Laswell=amazing. Future blog topic), or he can rap his way through an intricate idea. Yeah, dead serious.

Here is the song called "All I Need" and it's for his friends from New Orleans who survived Katrina. It's intense, but beautiful. Look at the lyrics of this song. You can get more of a visual that way, instead of just hearing a love song. http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/matkearney/allineed.html

I admire and respect Mat Kearney so much that I will have a separate post for one of his songs called "Girl America". It's the most beautiful, honest, sincere song about our society and country that I have ever heard. I want "All I Need" to have its own respect since its topic is truly sensitive for each individual in the U.S. "Girl America" is the same way. That piece needs its own reflection because I think it is that important.

Title: "Maybe it's all gone black, but you're all I see" in Italian
In My Head: "Bullet" by Mat Kearney

Yo Le Podría Tener Para Siempre

2008-09-24T12:01:00.006-04:00

I am such a girl. I am madly, passionately in love with Ray LaMontagne('s voice). His voice is tastes like honey and feels like that old fleece blanket in January. It sounds so familiar, like you can't put your finger on it. I'm really starting to get into his music and I was in my friend's car and on her mix CD was this song by him called "Hold You In My Arms". It's incredibly beautiful. It's an audio hug. Seriously. Now, below, I have posted three videos of the same song. This might be considered excessive, but once you hear about 1 minute or so, or at least the first chorus, you won't mind listening to it a few times. So get to swaying, starting with the studio recording.

Here is the original studio version:

This is the live version:

Alright, I'm an Office fan. I'm not hardcore about the show, but here's the song one last time with the storyline of Jim and Pam, who I like to call "Jam". Very cute.
:

Title: "I Could Hold You Forever" in Spanish
In my head: "Hannah" by Ray LaMontagne (I'm dead serious. I love this song. I wish that he would call my name in real life like he does in this song. So gorgeous. Like I said, I'm such a chick ;)

Em Vez Disso Eu Duormo

2008-09-23T11:11:00.012-04:00

I am sick today. When I am sick, there is no room for happy little ditties from Brett Dennen. Most of these songs are pretty mellow to echo the petite amount of energy I have today. Here is my sick playlist for this cloudy Tuesday morning.

Anything from Continuum by John Mayer
Citadel by Anna Nalick
Keep Breathing by Ingrid Michaelson
Teeth In The Grass by Iron and Wine
Girlfriend In A Coma by Joshua Radin
Horses On The Range by Timmy Curran
Sea Green by Magi, Pierce, & E.J.
High And Low by Greg Laswell
Split Screen Sadness by John Mayer
Carry Me Home by Hem
Saturday Sun by Nick Drake
Jezebel by Iron and Wine
Accidental Babies by Damien Rice
Almost Lover by A Fine Frenzy
Lullaby by Priscilla Ahn
Trouble In Here by Howie Day
Goodnight by William Fitzsimmons
In Your Eyes by Peter Gabriel
Brighter Than Sunshine by Aqualung
Fuck Was I by Jenny Owen Young
Crooked Teeth by Death Cab For Cutie
Comfort by Deb Talan
Home Life by John Mayer
Boy With A Coin by Iron and Wine
These Girls by Ryan Adams
Far Far by Yael Naim
Sympathy by The Goo Goo Dolls
I Can't Seem To Make You Mine by The Clientele
When In Rome by Nickel Creek
Bad Day by R.E.M.
Swallowed In The Sea by Coldplay
Everything'll Be Alright by Joshua Radin
Hope That I Don't Fall In Love With You by Marc Cohn
Goodbye Blue Monday by Jeremy Fisher
American Pie by Don McLean
Waiting On An Angel by Ben Harper
Just Like Heaven by Katie Melua
Last Request by Paolo Nutini
Samson by Regina Spektor
For The Widows In Paradise by Sufjan Stevens

Here is Ingrid Michaelson's "Keep Breathing". Echoes your aches, of the stomach or of the heart.

Title: "Instead I Sleep" in Portugese
In my head: "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" by Sufjan Stevens

Plus Grand Que Grandeur Nature Nous Devenons

2008-09-22T12:33:00.000-04:00

I have said often in the past year that the one of the best shows to ever see, in my opinion, would be if Ingrid Michaelson and A Fine Frenzy together. That would be incredible. Ingrid Michaelson, I'll get to later.

A Fine Frenzy, derived from a Shakespearean term, is 22 year-old Allison Sudol. She sounds as if she is taking a journey into a scrapbook decades old. Her album, One Cell In The Sea, is infused with drizzling melodies and clever, refreshing lyrics.

Take for instance, "The Minnow and The Trout", which describes in a fairy tale-esque setting that differences shouldn't separate us. It's such a simple song, but with serious under tones. It flows with, "so please, I know that we’re different, but we were one cell in the sea in the beginning and what we’re made of was all the same once we’re not that different after all". The even more clever "You Picked Me", she compares herself to an apple and a sea shell, this delight is simple and catchy, contrasting to the melacholy and pensive tracks. "Come On, Come Out" echoes the same attitude by narrating a picnic-worthy day.

The more serious tracks, such as her single, "Almost Lover", "Ashes and Wine", and "Rangers", will haunt you and draw you in slowly and gingerly. A Fine Frenzy is not to be missed or ignored. Here is "Lifesize":

and the video for "Come On, Come Out", which I am passionately in love with:

Title: "Larger Than Lifesize We Become" in French
In My Head: "Crooked Teeth" by Death Cab For Cutie

Zapfen Sie Tanz ab

2008-09-21T13:33:00.004-04:00

I have owned the soundtrack to Zach Braff's independent film, Garden State, for about a year now. I didn't see the movie, although everyone kept telling me it would be my favorite. Well, it has become number one, tied with Pride and Prejudice. Anyway, I highly recommend both the film and the music, for they are both amazing and may surprise you. Watch Garden State. That's what I'm telling you.

Why? Because I have never seen another piece that has the perfect music selections in every scene. The music is not in the background. It becomes a trait of each character and the workings inside that aren't being shown. I cannot profess enough how insanely impressed I am by the combination of the flawless compilation and a great script with an astounding cast. Like Juno said, the soundtrack is the cheese to the film's macaroni. With all seriousness ofcourse.

Here is an example that hopefully will not make you judge the film too quickly. Yeah, it's just that scandalous... =P

This is just a taste on one of those tiny, baby, white, plastic spoons you get covered with the lastest flavor handed to you by the girl behind the counter with a black baseball hat with the shop logo on the front and a short brown pony tail and faint smile. That sample tastes even better than you imagined and has a twist of something savory sweet you can't detect, but cherish. That is what Garden State tastes like.

Care for a free sample? =)

Title: "Tap Dance" in German
In my head: "9 Crimes" by Damien Rice (see previous post for a listen ;)

欲求不満である　くつろいでいるに

2008-09-17T12:35:00.004-04:00

So, technically this morning, I wrote a huge post about what artists I love to listen to in the fall, including Iron and Wine, Glen Phillips,R.E.M., etc. What is rebundantly annoying is the fact that Eastern's wireless decided to stop working. You know, it was getting late and it just got tired. I guess it wanted some shut eye close to 1 am.

So, here I am again, but with a new topic. On Monday, it was my friend J.C.'s birthday. I mader her a CD and put the amazingly haunting "The Blower's Daughter" on it by Damien Rice (becuase it was on my youth pastor's iPod, which my youth group ALWAYS listens to. That's how I find most of my favorite artists, but that's for another post.) I don't really know Rice very well, mind you. J.C. asked if I knew the song "9 Crimes" by him, and I truthfully answered no. She freaked out on me and made me watch this AWESOME video for the song. This track is amazing, but with warning, this might creep you out at first. It's incredible, but you have to really sink your teeth in it to get it. Be aware the entire time, both listening and watching. It's about being with someone, but loving someone else and not changing the situation, basically. Very melancholy and very beautiful:

Damien Rice is a very talented man in which I will enthusiastically get to hear more from him.

Title: "Frustrated to relaxed" in Japanese
In my head: "Vertigo" by U2

Herbst

2008-09-17T00:18:00.009-04:00

I am lazy. I am also legitamately contemplating about which favorite artist of mine to write about next. In the meantime, voila!

The air is getting more brisk and is starting to act like a natural caffeine again, the warm hues of the leaves didn't wake you up first. I love fall. It always smells so clean. It's very refreshing.

Here's what I hear when the fiery leaves start dancing and in the morning I become a dragon:

Anything by Iron and Wine, Death Cab For Cutie, Toad The Wet Sprocket, Glen Phillips, The Damnwells, William Fitzsimmons R.E.M., Jeffrey Foucault, Kris Delmhorst, Ben Folds, and Paul Simon

Jimmy Eat World's album Futures

John Mayer's album Continuum

All of Coldplay's albums excluding Viva La Vida

Steve Tannen's Big Senorita album

To get into specifics, here's one of my favorites songs. I first heard this in 6th or 7th grade. It's just stuck to me. This track overflows with whispy instuments and fluent piano. Jamie Cullum's "All At Sea" sounds like the listener is already there within 30 seconds. At least I am. It's not smooth enough to be in summer. This track's ripped edges makes the perfect soundtrack for a walk in the sea of fiery, noisy, crispy leaves starting in the next few weeks. It's different than what I normally listen to. This is one of my polka-dot songs. Polka-dots make me smile, so maybe this one will bring you amusement, too.

Title: "Autumn" in German
In my head:

Les Rêves Doux

2008-09-15T17:13:00.008-04:00

It is late. It is precisely midnight on the dot as I write this sentence. Instead of directly recommending a band or artist that I am addicted to (in hopes that someone will like them too possibly), on this early Tuesday morning I have chosen to share my playlist for times like these. These melodies are like the Celestial Seasonings Sleepytime tea, but the audio version. Here are my tracks to soothe my weary eyes:

Someone Else's Life by Joshua Radin
Half A World Away by R.E.M.
Secretariat by Jeffrey Foucault
Ships by Redbird
In Front Of The World by Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers
Glass by Ingrid Michaelson
Wheel by John Mayer
World Inside The World by Old 97's
Calling by Leona Naess
One Fine Day by Natalie Merchant
Slip Slidin' Away by Paul Simon
Gotta Have You by The Weepies
Northern Sky by Nick Drake
The Blower's Daughter by Damien Rice
Citadel by Anna Nalick
Angel by Jack Johnson
Back To Good by Jonathan Clay
Hamburg Song by Keane
Everything Has Changed by William Fitzsimmons
Just Like Heaven by Kate Melua
Lullaby by Priscilla Ahn
Stars by David Crowder Band
Samson by Regina Spektor
Just Like The Moon by Brett Dennen
Tomorrow Is A Long Time by Nickel Creek
Two Dollar Shoes by Rosie Thomas
Half Acre by Hem
Thinking Out Loud by Ron Sexsmith
My Funny Valentine by Over The Rhine

To humor some, here is a track that will make you want to drown in some tea and your favorite old blanket. Listen to this after reading in bed for a while. It's the warm milk you had as a kid to make you sleepy. It's "Lullaby" by Priscilla Ahn. Her gift with music is incredible. Time to cuddle up to this amazingly peaceful ballad.

More of her to come. Do not fret.

That's All Folks!

Title: "Sweet Dreams" in French
In my head: "Enemy" by Jack Johnson

Луна - магнит

2008-09-14T01:20:00.005-04:00

Have you ever heard a song and wanted to perscribe it to a certain time of year? Christmastime does not count...Throughout 2007 and 2008, the lead singer of Switchfoot, Jon Foreman, released 4 season EP's, each containing 6 tracks. The funny/amazing part of it is is the fact that the songs actually sound like the EP to which they belong. One of my favorites on Fall EP is "The Moon Is A Magnet". It's less than two minutes and is often ignored, though its simplicity boasts its beauty. It makes you step back for a second to have a better view of your world. Contemplative, yet subtle about it. This track is very unassuming. Mind you, this even isn't Mr. Foreman at his best. For that I would recommend "The Cure For Pain" or "Your Love Is Strong".

Directions for listening to "The Moon Is A Magnet"
1) Listen to the studio recording here first. Take a listen or two to soak it in. Marinate in this autumn-esque little ditty.
http://www.last.fm/music/Jon+Foreman/_/The+Moon+is+A+Magnet?autostart
2) Watch the live version below. Not as pretty, but just as smooth as the original.

3) Go here http://jonforeman.com/ to learn more about these amazing EP's. Winter is another great one. I highly recommend these, and even if you aren't a Switchfoot fan, you should still try them. Switchfoot is okay in my book, but these tracks are just cream. Let Jon Foreman accompany you throughout every season. *Wink and smile*

Title: "The Moon Is A Magnet" in Russian
In my head: "Rebecca" by Pat McGee Band

Alléluia Il a Raison

2008-09-13T09:59:00.002-04:00

So for about the past 48 hours or so, I've got a particular song stuck in my head. Mind you, it isn't a happy song and it's not a song I want to hear everyday. It really makes me want to cry while wrapped in a blanket. (They may frighten you, but just keep reading.) "Embracing Accusations" by Shane Barnard and Shane Everett cuts deep within less than a minute and a half. Seriously. I first heard this song on my mission trip to Georgia this past summer at a worship service. This piece just tore me to pieces. It talks about the devil overpowering Father God and enticing us to lead lives fraught with the malignant destruction that comes with humanity's nature to sin.

Now, I don't really believe in the devil, or Satan or any figure like that. I do believe that sin is a constant poison in this world and that very frequently it spreads from each one of us to each other. This song really made me think about how often we fall from grace, His grace on a daily basis. It's not one of those songs you should listen to when your iPod is on shuffle. It should sort of be respected in the way that it should be used for meditation or in your personal worship and prayer which I highly recommend. And when this gets stuck in my head, I want to listen to expel it from my mind, but I know that I should wait until I am ready to offer it up on my own time for all that I have done. My advice: 1) Do not take this song lightly, but treasure it every so often so that you may wash your stains. 2) Make it full screen as to not get distracted.

Title: "Alleluia, He is right" in French
In my head: "Embracing Accusations" by Shane and Shane

Sophia Luz

2008-09-10T23:48:00.000-04:00

Tonight, my guitar has been named. Her name is Sophia Luz. "Luz" is "light" in Spanish. I chose the latter name from one of the few songs I am able to play: "You Are The Everything" by R.E.M. It's one of my favorites and a certain line drew me in: "I look her and I see the beauty of the light of music". Sophia is the light that I strum.

This guitar is a gift from my guitar teacher. I have been playing it for over a year now, just borrowing it and having live at my house. It became a gift when I started school a few weeks ago. I think I could finally name it when it became my own guitar. She's on her way out, but until then, we get along just fine. http://www.new.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=789836&id=646717612

In my head: "Publish My Love" by Rogue Wave

Le Tableau Par Chagall

2008-09-09T23:11:00.002-04:00

I now introduce you to one of my favorite bands on planet Earth. Welcome to The Weepies. It's a folk band consisting of a husband and wife that have been playing for a few years. Deb Talan and Steve Tannen were solo artists who admired each other and met at one of her shows. *Insert cute gushy stuff.* Their sound is the perfect soundtrack to spring or early summer. I chose this song, "Painting By Chagall", because it's one of my favorites. It brings to mind wildflowers. Don't fully grasp why, but it just does. This track is off their 2006 release entitled Say I Am You. This past April, they released Hideaway. This album sounds the most like pop in my opinion and has not yet reached the bar set by Say I Am You. Yet, some tracks including "Antarctica" and "Can't Go Back Now" are worth the $1.07 each on iTunes or not even a penny if you're the kind of folk to use Limewire. Either way, these tracks are worth the attention. The rest is satisfactory, but not as delectable as I had dreamed. Below is the making of the latest album by this quirky couple who strum to the same rhythm:

One last note about this breezy duo: A Paste article supporting Hideaway. It's a cute read. http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2008/04/the-weepies-guide-to-a-happy-life.html

O VMA Infame

2008-09-08T19:14:00.000-04:00

Yeah, that says "The Infamous VMA's" in Portugese. Oh well.

Drum roll, please...

The MTV Video Music Awards is one of those award shows that when you're in middle school or high school, and you call your best friend to watch it together, critiquing what's happening. Then, you eventually realize how pathetic they actually are, but you still look back and remember how awesomely fun that was.

My music taste has changed dramatically in the past few years. So much that when I say who I'm listening to on my iPod, people are like, "okay...", and stand blankly. It's so funny because it's as if they are taking a test or quiz or something and they don't recall learning or reading anything about a certain question. "Wait...what? I've never heard of that before...Okay..." It's exactly like that. Point being that most of the music I listen to doesn't get on the VMA's, persay. You probably hear them on the commercials during the VMA's.

Anyway, back to the overrated awards show. So, last night, apparently Britney Spears, Jonas Brothers, Rihanna, Katy Perry, Kayne West, Lil Wayne, Paramore, Pink, Christina Aguilera, Kid Rock, etc. performed live. You know something's wrong when the Jonas Brothers and Britney Spears provide the entertainment. The micro-clips that MTV provides to those viewers who didn't tune in on the day of, had one of Katy Perry singing "I Kissed A Girl" live. Let me tell you that a recording studio does not do her justice. The clip was about half a minute and she owned that song (yeah, I know she owns it because she wrote it). But, still, she was awesome.

The only band that I am truly a fan of that was nominated this year is Death Cab For Cutie. This baby independent band has grown into bigger venues now. (By bigger, I'm talking Madison Square Garden this fall. Yup, no joke.) Anyway, the first single of their latest album Narrow Stairs entitled, "I Will Possess Your Heart" was nominated for a few awards. It didn't win for cinematography, like it should have. This video is completely awesome and totally underrated, especially this video. This is the original, not the radio edit that literally chops it in two. If you are just being introduced to this musical phenomenon, here's a taste of brilliance. The second verse is slightly creepy, but the first few lines are flawless: "How I wish you could see the potential, the potential of you and me/ It's like a book elegantly bound, but in a language that you can't read just yet". Very impressive.

Sorry I've been all over with this post. Didn't write it all at once. Will try to do better tomorrow.

In my head: "Not One Of Us" from The Lion King 2. I'm serious.

Saum

2008-09-06T11:11:00.000-04:00

Rabbit Songs. What does that really mean? It's the title of the debut album from Hem. This may spark a question mark to most of you. Who's Hem? Well, they are a folk band that writes soundtracks to dreams. It literally sounds like that. Take the third song for example.

"Half Acre", Rabbits Songs' third track, is very breezy. This song sounds like it could be in Alice in Wonderland. This idea ignited when I thought about the album title and looked at the cover illustration. The key reason I think this is because this song is about memories and reflecting what have you been through. In Alice in Wonderland, she sees everyone from the tea party in her dream in a new light and reminds her of what her relationships with each guest have been like. It's a stretch, I know, but the whole reminicing thing is apparent. Listen to it live:

"Stupid Mouth Shut" oozes confessions of not saying what you feel. The best lines of this song go, "The shadows capture me in webs, Just tangled up in what I've seen, And every word I have not said". Everyone can relate to these words. Who hasn't said something they wish they would have because maybe things would be different. A simpler, less superb synonym song for this track would be "Say" by John Mayer (who is a favorite of mine). I've had this song on repeat for about 15 minutes. It's that good. It's a fabulous song to sing to. Girls, try it on for size; it'll make you sound pretty.

Rabbit Songs is the only album I own by these remarkable musicians., but it definitely isn't my last. This incredible band is expected to release their fifth studio album by the end of the year.

Title: "Hem" in German

In my head: "Will You Won't You Join The Dance" from Alice In Wonderland

"In Qualche Luogo Solo Sappiamo"

2008-09-05T10:24:00.000-04:00

Keane is one of my favorite bands. I've known about them for a few years now. They're from the UK and sound reminiscent of the 1970's slightly. It's really interesting that Keane is often compared to Coldplay because the pianist and composer for Keane is Tim Rice-Oxley, who was invited to join Coldplay by Chris Martin when they were starting out. For example, "Hamburg Song" reminds me of Coldplay's "The Scientist". They're both melancholy love songs that seem to almost sound like fog. Now, stay with me on this. Both pieces have this haunting effect, as if when the song ends, it disappears until the next time you hear it. And until you hear it again, you won't think about it. Same thing happens when you see fog. This ghostly quality is hard to compose. I know, I have I tried.

"Somewhere Only We Know" by Keane sounds much like what you feel when you look at an old photograph of a time when you were just living in the moment, like a shot of you and a friend laughing. Or, like going to place that holds a lot of memories, such as a childhood camp or a loved one's house after years of absence in that place.

To close, here's a music video by Keane that I just saw for the first time around 3 and a half minutes ago. It's for the song "This Is The Last Time". I think it's very clever and I really like how it was shot. Just something to whet your appetite for more of this delectable band. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gppLf4XduoI

Title: "Somewhere Only We Know" in Italian
In My Head: "There You Go" by Caedmon's Call

Soy Adelante De Yo Mismo

2008-09-04T00:00:00.000-04:00

According to freetranslation.com, the title means, "I'm ahead of myself". I plan on using that site often to write my titles in different languages.

Speaking of different languages, don't you just love songs that aren't in English? I mean, English allows most of us to understand what the lyrics are saying, the main point of the song, but what about words that are uncharted territory to us? How about French or Israeli lyrics?

Carla Bruni, France's First Lady, is amazing. Her cashmere voice and acoustic playing mesh incredibly well. It's like she's waltzing with her instrument.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMUedRUJ_HA

I took three years of French so far and I barely know what's she's saying. It's sounds amazing. The best part is is the fact that two years ago, she did an album in English and it bombed in the US. Soon after, she went back to French and was golden again. Funny.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBCfW9-hjKI

I know we've all seen this ad. She is wonderful. Yael Naim is the love child of Ingrid Michaelson and Regina Spektor. Now that baby can sing. She's very witty. Ms. Naim redefines "a little ditty". She just bops along, but with a seriousness and sophistication. Very good stuff.

That's enough foreign studies for one evening.

In my head: "In My Head" by Anna Nalick

J'aime la musique!

2008-09-03T22:09:00.000-04:00

Aloha. My name is Hannah, middle name's Jordan. Last name is not Montana, thank you very much. Like Ms. Montana though, I love music (to put that lightly).

If you have known me for about 5 minutes or more, you know that I have mentioned music at least once. It is actually one of the first things I ask about people. "So, what sort of music do you listen to?" are words that I have been uttering to my classmates.

I will probably offer to make you a CD, often by only knowing one genre, artist or a few favorite songs. It may take a while (I am a busy young lady) to get it you, but just keep reminding me, for I sometimes tend to forget. It is something that I have grown to love and look forward to doing as often as I can.

Little side note: This is my first blog. My college writing professor made blogging an assignment. This is pretty cool, I've got to say. I'm very excited to share my little thoughts and commentary on all things music (got that yet?).

I hope you or someone you know will enjoy this just a fraction as much as I am writing it.

You are now entering HJ's Music Notes...

In my head: "Someone Else's Life" by Joshua Radin