Recent Inspiration
I am fortunate to find inspiration in many things though music is my favorite of muses. And how lucky I have been of late for a number of incredible albums have been released and I feel compelled to share them here with you.
April – by Sun Kil Moon
Sun Kil Moon’s latest record April released April 1st of this year furthers the collection of amazing music by Mark Kozelek. Sumptuous melody, beautiful textures, and intimate lyrics make for a dreamy, quiet state of mind. Mark Kozelek is also singer, musician, and writer for another of my favorite bands the Red House Painters
Attack & Release – by The Black Keys
The Black Keys continue to walk the line between standard Blues and dirty Rock and do so with an incredible balance of musicianship and rough edges. Their latest album Attack & Release is a fine example, if not the best of their work. This record gets me fired up and ready to pound through the day.
Consolers Of The Lonely – by The Raconteurs
Those who know me are aware of my affection for all things Jack White though the previous record produced by The Raconteurs failed to meet my high expectations. The Raconteur’s latest Consolers Of The Lonely is rife with Jack White’s crunchy guitar riffs, killer energy, and unlike the previous Raconteurs record presents a convincing if not fantastic collaboration between Jack White and Brendon Benson, both whom I like a great deal individually.
Another record I await eagerly though I must admit to regarding it as somewhat of a guilty pleasure is Lil Wayne’s upcoming The Carter III. release. Why a guilty pleasure? Well, as a musician I cannot say I regard Lil Wayne’s work as especially complex in terms of its musical maturity though I find his lyrical style and writing are top notch if not the best in the Hip Hop world.
Another source of inspiration or maybe better described as satisfaction is my recently acquired Subaru WRX Turbo. As a general rule I would much prefer to not have to have a car and to rely on public transportation and my feet though my present status in Pittsburgh render that difficult if not impossible. The 2008 Subaru WRX boasts a vastly improved interior design, finish, and material, and the driving experience is in incredible (handling, acceleration, and the overall feel). If you are in the market, take this car for a spin.
Enough from me, what inspires you all these days? Listening to any new music? Reading anything amazing? Well, don’t keep it to yourself.
I love the new Black Keys album. It is one of my recent favorites. I have to drive one of the new Subarus too
Mark C
hi Jeremy,
I’ll definitely check these out. I’ve been listening to several things lately. Some of which I’ve already told you about.
Spend it All – by Bow Thayer
The Driftwood Periodicals II – by Bow Thayer
Dirt Farmer – by Levon Helm
Shotgun Singer – by Kris Delmhorst
Float – by Flogging Molly
Let me know if you would like to borrow any of them.
Erik Dahl
Have you heard Mark Kozelek’s solo record “If You Want Blood” Check it out if you enjoy Red House Painters.
Lately, I can’t stop listening to Tokyo Police Club – Elephant Shell…
Travis Schmeisser
@ Websheriff: howdy patna. what you doin’ round these parts? sheesh. Yes, I buy music.
@Erik: Will definitely check those out. I am familiar only with the Bow Thayer you introduced me to.
@Travis: I don’t think I have heard Mark’s solo record. Will definitely check it out. I am a big fan. Also, I am excited to learn he will be here in Pittsburgh of all places to play a show June 17. I dig Tokyo Police Club as well. Will have to check out Elephant Shell. thanks!
Jeremy
I’m also a huge fan of anything Mark Kozelek produces. April is pretty good, but doesn’t quite match some of his earlier work. Ghosts of the Great Highway and Old Ramon, are flawless in my opinion. Travis also picks out a favorite. “If You Want Blood” is actually a compilation of two of his earlier solo EP’s. “What’s next to the Moon” is an album entirely of ACDC covers – nearly all are done with a lone guitar. Do make a point to catch his live show, he’s great.
Dave