I’m still here! You’re still there, I hope. Despite being busier than a contagious disease expert I have been listening to music new and old. The old as part of my now way-behind schedule Albums of my Years series and the new because, well, who doesn’t like hearing new music?
So, as I try and finish the 1988 post in another tab, here’s some of the new tunes I’ve been spinning and streaming and Alexa…ing of late:
The National- Never Tear Us Apart
It’s safe to say that I was underwhelmed by last year’s much-hyped album from The National. Nothing hooked me in the same manner as their previous work but after x albums that’s not too surprising. This however…. well I really dig it. A cover of INXS’ most 80s of ballads for a bushfire relief album and shows (along with their cracking cover of Bruce’s ‘Mansion on the Hill’ a few years back) the band have a way with a cover.
Biffy Clyro – Instant History
My wife digs this band more than me but I think that’s more down to the singer… I like em though and have caught em live at least once. I saw a tweet that summed up my response to their slightly-new direction that went something like “I’m not sure about this new Biffy Clyro song.. THIS IS THE SOUND THAT WE MAKE!!!” It’s a real earworm that even my son is hooked on.
Bush – Flowers On A Grave
Obvious euphemism aside, I used to really like a bit of Bush back in the day. Their first three albums had some great tunes on but Golden State, their fourth, felt like the end of a road. Turns out they got back together in 2010 and have released a few albums since that I’ll earmark for future listening. This is their latest from an upcoming 8th album.
Pearl Jam – Dance of the Clairvoyants AND Superblood Wolfmoon
It gives me so much pleasure to put Pearl Jam in a ‘spinning the new’ post once let alone a twofer and say that there’s a new Pearl Jam album out in just a couple of weeks now. It’s been so long and the waiting drove me mad… It took a minute or two for me to love this song, it didn’t hit immediately. My first reaction was “wow that’s.. different.” But each listen revealed more: that bass line, Vedder’s vocal the most committed he’s sounded in ages and it’s got a real groove to it. New producer, new vibe… the other new song release from the album is a little closer to the band’s ‘expected’ sound but still has a pretty different vibe (and a killer solo):
I can’t wait for Gigaton. Thankfully I don’t have to wait for long.
Mumbling About... 
Glad to see you back in action. While I haven’t listened to much of Pearl Jam’s music, the two tunes you highlighted from their upcoming new album caught most of my intention. I also like that INXS tune but I think I prefer the original.
Thanks, just had no time to get back in the saddle for a bit. The original can’t be beaten
I know that feeling. Life happens. Usually, in these situations I try to remind myself this is all supposed to be for fun and relaxation, not to bring on any stress or anxiety! Admittedly, it doesn’t always work.
I like the National version simply because I don’t know the INXS version. Biffy’s song does not much for me. Always liked Bush. Are they still around? The PJ stuff is taut. Doesn’t even sound like Vedder. Funny story – you’ll recall I went to LA on my little rock and roll fantasy trip. I met up with my friend’s musician son. We were talking about bands and I randomly threw out Pearl Jam. He fucking hates them like I hate Bon Jovi. Surprised me. He has strong opinions. He doesn’t like Jeff Beck. See if HE gets invited to your next cookout with Jeff.
Hope things are ok over in Old Blighty. We’re all hunkered down over here, fingers crossed.
BTW, started to watch ‘The Crown’ on Netflix. I hate to tell you this old boy – old fucking chap – but if half that shit is true your royalty are a bunch of wankers.
We’re all livin’ on a prayer over here, sir. Schools are out of play now and I’m set to work from home for the foreseeable and I’ve had to cancel the next bbq – which really sucks like a shot through the heart because I’d already laid in the meat (and veggie options for Macca). Just keeping things chilled, distant and making sure nobody lays their hands on me.
Still, keep the faith; I’m sure things will pick up and return to normal soon.
As for the monarchy – they’re good for tourism and that’s it in my opinion. Bumholes to the lot of em.
But they are wildly entertaining
Yup – Philip especially has nice way with opening his mouth and letting the racist comments fall out
Yes, great reception over there for Meghan. And why is that old fuck still driving?
No idea – I keep up with them as little as I assume / hope you do the Kardashians
Yes, well, if the Kardashians house blew up the only thing you’d lose is a building.
I like that, I like that a lot
Ok, but don’t get any ideas and go all Guy Fawkes on me.
BTW, I don’t usually reach out in regards to my posts but I know that in the past you have sometimes not gotten news of my current posts. And I know for a fact that the current one will interest you.
PS. “Don’t stand so close to me” makes for a nice tune. Well, maybe not so much in lyrical content as in the title of course.
BTW, I trust there will be no more Bon Jovi quotes issued. Good day to you!
Ah, say it isn’t so: you caught me. I’ll bounce back. Have a nice day too, sir
That Jam stuff is good. I’ll have to give the new album some sustained time. I like the sound of the first cut and the ideas. They work for me but I do like when they rock out on the second one.
Just a few days to wait, CB: I’ve upgraded my stereo setup recently so am anxious for some new PJ to spin on it
Ooooh. The old upgrade. You’re serious. The cuts do sound good so enjoy and give us your thoughts.
Well… I needed an amp to run the turntable through and ended up with an entire stereo and speakers that’ll shake the neighbours short-and-curlys out for less than I’d normally drop on two records
“Turn that shit up!”