Today's song is...
Hey, Mr. DJ, I Thought You Said We Had A Deal
Oh, how I love this song. The music is sooo good and I love the tongue in cheek humor of the self-referential lyrics. This is one of my favorite songs to hear live. I get chills when I hear that fake xylophone sound. It has been far too long.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 76
Today's song is...
Santa Cruz
This song is completely bizarre. There is just no other word for it. And I know if I had been there for it's performance I would have laughed my head off. Because it makes me giggle even listening to the recording. My favorite part is the "Ahhh."
Santa Cruz
This song is completely bizarre. There is just no other word for it. And I know if I had been there for it's performance I would have laughed my head off. Because it makes me giggle even listening to the recording. My favorite part is the "Ahhh."
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 75
Today's song is...
Spiraling Shape
Here is a perfect example of a song that I was completely indifferent to until the day I woke up and realized it is brilliant. It's beautiful musically and lyrically. I was listening to it one day and suddenly realized that the melody is one of the most stunningly beautiful I have encountered. And the lyric "Don't spend the rest of your life wondering" struck me in an incredibly profound way. It's something I have really taken to heart. Don't be afraid to try something because you will always wonder what it would have been like if you don't. I sense that those words will someday become a permanent part of my skin.
Spiraling Shape
Here is a perfect example of a song that I was completely indifferent to until the day I woke up and realized it is brilliant. It's beautiful musically and lyrically. I was listening to it one day and suddenly realized that the melody is one of the most stunningly beautiful I have encountered. And the lyric "Don't spend the rest of your life wondering" struck me in an incredibly profound way. It's something I have really taken to heart. Don't be afraid to try something because you will always wonder what it would have been like if you don't. I sense that those words will someday become a permanent part of my skin.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 74
Today's song is...
The Devil Went Down to Newport
One of my preferred Mono Puff tunes. It kind of reminds me of this fantastic short film with Clive Owen where he is in a car race with this other dude to try to win back James Brown's soul from the devil (played by Gary Oldman, if I remember correctly). Except this time it's a surfing contest. And the lyrics are so right. It is totally rockin'.
The Devil Went Down to Newport
One of my preferred Mono Puff tunes. It kind of reminds me of this fantastic short film with Clive Owen where he is in a car race with this other dude to try to win back James Brown's soul from the devil (played by Gary Oldman, if I remember correctly). Except this time it's a surfing contest. And the lyrics are so right. It is totally rockin'.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 73
Today's song is...
Kitten Intro
Not really technically a song but it genuinely amuses me so I am going with it. Can you imagine going to a show that opened with this and how completely confused you would be if you didn't know the band? "It's your kind of kitten." Love that. I sort of feel like I went to a show where they played this at the beginning but I might be making that up. I know I've been to one with the Critic Intro.
Kitten Intro
Not really technically a song but it genuinely amuses me so I am going with it. Can you imagine going to a show that opened with this and how completely confused you would be if you didn't know the band? "It's your kind of kitten." Love that. I sort of feel like I went to a show where they played this at the beginning but I might be making that up. I know I've been to one with the Critic Intro.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
There's A Picture Opposite Me - 1/26/11
Today's absolutely brilliant picture is from John. Kudos, sir!
Please send submissions to theroommustlistentome@gmail.com
Please send submissions to theroommustlistentome@gmail.com
Song of the Day - Day 72
Today's song is...
Leonard Lopate Show Theme
I can't be completely certain but I am reasonably sure this is the first SOTD I have never heard at all. So I can't make any comment on it.
Leonard Lopate Show Theme
I can't be completely certain but I am reasonably sure this is the first SOTD I have never heard at all. So I can't make any comment on it.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 71
Today's song is...
When It Rains It Snows
I frequently find myself with this song stuck in my head. Something about it is very earworm prone. Of course it might have something to do with the fact the the Legos characters created for the depiction of this song that was featured in the very first TAPOM perpetually sit right in front of the TV in my boyfriend's apartment so I end up looking at them all the time.
I admit that this is one of the songs whose lyrics I just don't think too hard about. They flow together in a nice sing-songy sort of way which is good enough for me.
When It Rains It Snows
I frequently find myself with this song stuck in my head. Something about it is very earworm prone. Of course it might have something to do with the fact the the Legos characters created for the depiction of this song that was featured in the very first TAPOM perpetually sit right in front of the TV in my boyfriend's apartment so I end up looking at them all the time.
I admit that this is one of the songs whose lyrics I just don't think too hard about. They flow together in a nice sing-songy sort of way which is good enough for me.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Does This Sound Like You? You Aren't Alone.
This game was originally Stacy's idea, then Megan adopted it for a forum thread. It started life as a "You Know You've Been To Too Many TMBG Shows When..." fill in the blanks game. For Audience Participation, I am adapting it to "You Might Be A Little Obsessed With TMBG If..." so that people who haven't been to a lot of shows can play too. I'll get it started and everyone can add to it in the comments.
You Might Be A Little Obsessed With TMBG If...
There are 45 different versions of Istanbul on your iPod.
You can recognize a song from the first chord or drum beat (this is a whole game in and of itself).
You can identify at least three pieces of clothing each member of the band wears on a regular basis.
You can tell what song the band is about to play based on where they are standing on stage.
You have had entire conversations about a band member's shoes.
There is perpetually confetti turning up on the floor in your house even months after a show.
You start clapping on the back beat before you are instructed to.
You can tell when a band member gets a haircut.
You know four of the five band member's middle names.
You plan your vacations around the band's touring schedule.
You have at least five Facebook friends or Twitter followers that you only know because of the band.
You can identify pictures/videos from different shows based on what the band is wearing.
Crew members recognize you when they see you in the audience at concerts by other bands.
You have seen the film They Might Be Giants with George C. Scott, just because you were curious.
You have ever contemplated buying a pair of red pants (bonus points if you actually did).
You can not listen to Drink! without quietly saying "drink, drink" aloud during the chorus.
You see pictures of guitars on the covers of music magazines and think "that looks just like Dan's Telecaster."
You are willing to drive 572 miles to see a single member of the band performing with someone else.
You have serious opinions about the appropriate length of Linnell's hair.
It no longer phases you when confetti falls out of your pants.
All of your "people you may know" on Facebook are people related to the band.
There are states you have only visited to see a TMBG show.
Gigantic is on your list of five films to have while trapped on a desert island.
You started a whole blog chronicling your obsession with the band.
I could go on and on, but I want to leave some for other people to fill in. Have fun!
You Might Be A Little Obsessed With TMBG If...
There are 45 different versions of Istanbul on your iPod.
You can recognize a song from the first chord or drum beat (this is a whole game in and of itself).
You can identify at least three pieces of clothing each member of the band wears on a regular basis.
You can tell what song the band is about to play based on where they are standing on stage.
You have had entire conversations about a band member's shoes.
There is perpetually confetti turning up on the floor in your house even months after a show.
You start clapping on the back beat before you are instructed to.
You can tell when a band member gets a haircut.
You know four of the five band member's middle names.
You plan your vacations around the band's touring schedule.
You have at least five Facebook friends or Twitter followers that you only know because of the band.
You can identify pictures/videos from different shows based on what the band is wearing.
Crew members recognize you when they see you in the audience at concerts by other bands.
You have seen the film They Might Be Giants with George C. Scott, just because you were curious.
You have ever contemplated buying a pair of red pants (bonus points if you actually did).
You can not listen to Drink! without quietly saying "drink, drink" aloud during the chorus.
You see pictures of guitars on the covers of music magazines and think "that looks just like Dan's Telecaster."
You are willing to drive 572 miles to see a single member of the band performing with someone else.
You have serious opinions about the appropriate length of Linnell's hair.
It no longer phases you when confetti falls out of your pants.
All of your "people you may know" on Facebook are people related to the band.
There are states you have only visited to see a TMBG show.
Gigantic is on your list of five films to have while trapped on a desert island.
You started a whole blog chronicling your obsession with the band.
I could go on and on, but I want to leave some for other people to fill in. Have fun!
Song of the Day - Day 70
Today's song is...
Brooklyn
Not one of my favorite venue songs but it does have the distinction of being one of the six I have heard performed in their original venues. And I enjoy singing along with the end. "Even the Gowanus Canaaaaaaaal."
Brooklyn
Not one of my favorite venue songs but it does have the distinction of being one of the six I have heard performed in their original venues. And I enjoy singing along with the end. "Even the Gowanus Canaaaaaaaal."
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 69
Today's song is...
The World's Address
Oh, the world play. This is a really good example of what I love about Linnell's writing. The whole song is built around a central pun and each line just builds on it more. I love the lyric "Life's parade of fashion just leaves me depressed, under every garment I can see the world's address." But I also find the song kind of sad for some reason. And I'm rather curious why Flans ended up singing it.
The World's Address
Oh, the world play. This is a really good example of what I love about Linnell's writing. The whole song is built around a central pun and each line just builds on it more. I love the lyric "Life's parade of fashion just leaves me depressed, under every garment I can see the world's address." But I also find the song kind of sad for some reason. And I'm rather curious why Flans ended up singing it.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 68
Today's song is...
Fibber Island
Beautiful guitar playing by Dan. I always thought this song would make a perfect children's book with the right illustrator. Maybe the band will consider it for there next book? Also... I would very much like to ride a giraffe.
Fibber Island
Beautiful guitar playing by Dan. I always thought this song would make a perfect children's book with the right illustrator. Maybe the band will consider it for there next book? Also... I would very much like to ride a giraffe.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 67
Today's song is...
Computer Assisted Design
I was going to say that this isn't one of my favorite HCS tracks but then I re-watched the video and I don't think that statement is entirely accurate. It is one of my favorite videos from the album. I would like a little Corkbot doll. And the song has a really interesting drum track which I don't think I had appreciated before. Also, the introduction on the video is hilarious.
Computer Assisted Design
I was going to say that this isn't one of my favorite HCS tracks but then I re-watched the video and I don't think that statement is entirely accurate. It is one of my favorite videos from the album. I would like a little Corkbot doll. And the song has a really interesting drum track which I don't think I had appreciated before. Also, the introduction on the video is hilarious.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 66
Today's song is...
Your Racist Friend
Never one of my favorites but I like the horn solo. And more and more lately, I have found this lyric coming to mind: "My head can't tolerate this bobbing and pretending, listen to some bullet-head and the madness that he's saying." Unlike a lot of TMBG songs, I feel like there is something very true about this one. It describes a very relatable situation. With horns.
Your Racist Friend
Never one of my favorites but I like the horn solo. And more and more lately, I have found this lyric coming to mind: "My head can't tolerate this bobbing and pretending, listen to some bullet-head and the madness that he's saying." Unlike a lot of TMBG songs, I feel like there is something very true about this one. It describes a very relatable situation. With horns.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 65
Today's song is...
I Am Not Your Broom
Broom! One of my very favorite guest performers. For a household cleaning item, he's a very good comedian. And of course you can catch him at Pianos every Monday. I think possibly my favorite part of Broom's act is how successfully and consistently he manages to get Linnell to crack up.
Here are a few of my favorite Broom appearances.
The original:
Mini Broom! Note the brief appearance of Flans' hand. And one of my all time favorite dialogue exchanges. "You're right." "You're odd." "Hey, you're odd too buddy."
My own Broom video from New Haven:
And possibly the best one ever when Broom plays for the adults:
And don't forget to check out his reality TV program and his Twitter feed @thebroom.
I Am Not Your Broom
Broom! One of my very favorite guest performers. For a household cleaning item, he's a very good comedian. And of course you can catch him at Pianos every Monday. I think possibly my favorite part of Broom's act is how successfully and consistently he manages to get Linnell to crack up.
Here are a few of my favorite Broom appearances.
The original:
Mini Broom! Note the brief appearance of Flans' hand. And one of my all time favorite dialogue exchanges. "You're right." "You're odd." "Hey, you're odd too buddy."
My own Broom video from New Haven:
And possibly the best one ever when Broom plays for the adults:
And don't forget to check out his reality TV program and his Twitter feed @thebroom.
There's A Picture Opposite Me - 1/19/11
Another creation by Jamie. I admit I haven't figured this one out myself yet, so I'm counting on all of your brilliant minds.
Please send submissions to theroommustlistentome@gmail.com
Please send submissions to theroommustlistentome@gmail.com
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 64
Today's song is...
Friend or Foe?
Really? Another ring tone? So soon? Ok, fine. This is one of my favorites of the batch, actually, just because I find the concept of your phone contemplating if the caller is a friend or an enemy really amusing. It's too bad I can't set my phone to select from a variety of ringtones randomly, because this would be a good one to pop up occasionally when I didn't know who was calling. Though I guess I could set it to unknown numbers. If I ever getting around to finding the cord to get it from my computer that is.
Friend or Foe?
Really? Another ring tone? So soon? Ok, fine. This is one of my favorites of the batch, actually, just because I find the concept of your phone contemplating if the caller is a friend or an enemy really amusing. It's too bad I can't set my phone to select from a variety of ringtones randomly, because this would be a good one to pop up occasionally when I didn't know who was calling. Though I guess I could set it to unknown numbers. If I ever getting around to finding the cord to get it from my computer that is.
Bringing Back-up To the Forefront
Today I am subjecting you all to one of my silly little pet projects. I warned you I was going to last week, if you were paying attention. Some of you have, no doubt, been subjected to it before. I get these ideas in my head and then I can't shake them and keep coming back to them over and over again. This one involves Dan Miller as a back-up singer.
Anyone who has been to a show, or even watched enough YouTube footage, should be aware that Dan pretty regularly provides backing vocals on some songs during live performances. It's even mentioned on his page on the wiki. Well, I've got this theory that there are actually a bunch of these songs on which Dan sings back-up on the recorded version as well. As time has gone on, I grown more convinced that this theory is not that far fetched, and yet a fair number of fans seem to discount this idea entirely. I'm not saying that people disagree with me, more just that it just doesn't seem to occur to them that it is a possibility.
The way I see there are three possibilites: a) I am completely wrong and Dan has never recorded backing vocals, which is entirely possible and will make me feel very silly. b) Dan has recorded backing vocals but somehow this fact has completely escaped all the people who record these types of things on the wiki. c) Everyone takes it for granted that Dan sings back-up and they just never bothered to note down when and where.
Well, my little pet project is to get to the bottom of this matter. I hate to see Dan so completely uncredited for his vocals if in fact they are present. Believe me, if I ever run into Dan at a show, I am going to try to drum up the courage to ask him. But in the meantime, I've slowly been compiling a list of songs that I believe Dan sings on. I would very much like to get your opinions on what is already on the list and see if any of you would like to nominate any other songs for inclusion.
If you're not sure what Dan's singing voice sounds like, I suggest going back to listen to Infinity or Stuck, as a reference.
Thus far I haven't found any good candidates on Mink Car or No! and only sketchy possibilities on ABCs and 123s, but I would love to hear arguments for anything from Dan's tenure.
Here's my list:
These are the ones I'm pretty sure of...
Experimental Film
Thunderbird
The Cap'm
The Mesopotamians
Meet the Elements
These are the ones I'm not fully convinced on...
Feign Amnesia
Alphabet of Nations (just the Zimbabwes)
Stalk of Wheat
As I noted last week, I also think that's Dan on Linnell's Song of the 50 States.
Also if someone can figure out who is singing back-up with Dan on Infinity I will be eternally grateful. It's really been bugging me. Is it just another track of Dan doing back-up on himself or is there actually a different voice in there?
Thank you for indulging my pet project. Happy hunting.
-This has been a public service announcement from the self-proclaimed president of the Society for the Appreciation of Backing Band Members -
Anyone who has been to a show, or even watched enough YouTube footage, should be aware that Dan pretty regularly provides backing vocals on some songs during live performances. It's even mentioned on his page on the wiki. Well, I've got this theory that there are actually a bunch of these songs on which Dan sings back-up on the recorded version as well. As time has gone on, I grown more convinced that this theory is not that far fetched, and yet a fair number of fans seem to discount this idea entirely. I'm not saying that people disagree with me, more just that it just doesn't seem to occur to them that it is a possibility.
The way I see there are three possibilites: a) I am completely wrong and Dan has never recorded backing vocals, which is entirely possible and will make me feel very silly. b) Dan has recorded backing vocals but somehow this fact has completely escaped all the people who record these types of things on the wiki. c) Everyone takes it for granted that Dan sings back-up and they just never bothered to note down when and where.
Well, my little pet project is to get to the bottom of this matter. I hate to see Dan so completely uncredited for his vocals if in fact they are present. Believe me, if I ever run into Dan at a show, I am going to try to drum up the courage to ask him. But in the meantime, I've slowly been compiling a list of songs that I believe Dan sings on. I would very much like to get your opinions on what is already on the list and see if any of you would like to nominate any other songs for inclusion.
If you're not sure what Dan's singing voice sounds like, I suggest going back to listen to Infinity or Stuck, as a reference.
Thus far I haven't found any good candidates on Mink Car or No! and only sketchy possibilities on ABCs and 123s, but I would love to hear arguments for anything from Dan's tenure.
Here's my list:
These are the ones I'm pretty sure of...
Experimental Film
Thunderbird
The Cap'm
The Mesopotamians
Meet the Elements
These are the ones I'm not fully convinced on...
Feign Amnesia
Alphabet of Nations (just the Zimbabwes)
Stalk of Wheat
As I noted last week, I also think that's Dan on Linnell's Song of the 50 States.
Also if someone can figure out who is singing back-up with Dan on Infinity I will be eternally grateful. It's really been bugging me. Is it just another track of Dan doing back-up on himself or is there actually a different voice in there?
Thank you for indulging my pet project. Happy hunting.
-This has been a public service announcement from the self-proclaimed president of the Society for the Appreciation of Backing Band Members -
Monday, January 17, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 63
Today's song is...
They Might Be Giants
Boy! As theme songs go, I don't think they could have come up with a better one for such a undefinable band. I kind of love that I don't think I've ever heard it live the same way twice since Flans always seems to put the words together in a different order every time.
I only just realized from looking at the wiki, that there seems to be some debate about who does the spoken word part in the song. Personally, I've always thought the voice sounded like Barry Bostwick, but that's probably just me.
The building intensity in the song works so well in the live setting as they are building up to a big confetti bonanza at the end. And the audience starts hooting and screaming because "we can't be silenced cause they might be giants and what are we gonna do unless they are?"
They Might Be Giants
Boy! As theme songs go, I don't think they could have come up with a better one for such a undefinable band. I kind of love that I don't think I've ever heard it live the same way twice since Flans always seems to put the words together in a different order every time.
I only just realized from looking at the wiki, that there seems to be some debate about who does the spoken word part in the song. Personally, I've always thought the voice sounded like Barry Bostwick, but that's probably just me.
The building intensity in the song works so well in the live setting as they are building up to a big confetti bonanza at the end. And the audience starts hooting and screaming because "we can't be silenced cause they might be giants and what are we gonna do unless they are?"
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 62
Today's song is...
Budnitz #1
Also known as Be Kind and Gentle. One of my preferred instrumentals. I can totally picture this accompanying some driving or horseback riding montage in a film or television show. Or possibly someone doing some cool spy stuff. It just really sounds like it belongs on a soundtrack.
Budnitz #1
Also known as Be Kind and Gentle. One of my preferred instrumentals. I can totally picture this accompanying some driving or horseback riding montage in a film or television show. Or possibly someone doing some cool spy stuff. It just really sounds like it belongs on a soundtrack.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 61
Today's song is...
Women and Men
So much love for this song. I think this is my second favorite off of Flood (after Birdhouse). I will never get tired of listening to Linnell sing "meee-eeee-eeee-n". That is my favorite part. Such a great vocal. I could listening to that forever. More please!
Women and Men
So much love for this song. I think this is my second favorite off of Flood (after Birdhouse). I will never get tired of listening to Linnell sing "meee-eeee-eeee-n". That is my favorite part. Such a great vocal. I could listening to that forever. More please!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 60
Today's song is...
Oregon
Apparently it's State Songs week. I find Oregon very amusing. I like to imagine what it would look like to have a state chasing you. Anybody ever read the children's book The Scrambled States of America? Thats kind of the image of the state I am picturing. With an angry face.
Oregon
Apparently it's State Songs week. I find Oregon very amusing. I like to imagine what it would look like to have a state chasing you. Anybody ever read the children's book The Scrambled States of America? Thats kind of the image of the state I am picturing. With an angry face.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 59
Today's song is...
I Know What I Saw
Man, I would have loved to have seen People Are Wrong. This is the a kind of classic start to a play with someone giving an introduction to what you are about to see sort of like a Greek chorus. I enjoy Chris Anderson's voice. I may not have seen the show but I have heard him cover the Indigo Girls while waiting for a bathroom. That's one of those things you just don't forget.
I Know What I Saw
Man, I would have loved to have seen People Are Wrong. This is the a kind of classic start to a play with someone giving an introduction to what you are about to see sort of like a Greek chorus. I enjoy Chris Anderson's voice. I may not have seen the show but I have heard him cover the Indigo Girls while waiting for a bathroom. That's one of those things you just don't forget.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
There's A Picture Opposite Me - 1/12/11
Here's another picture from Rebecca and her team :-) Enjoy!
"See the hands of my offspring making windmills" - I Palindrome I - They Might Be Giants
Please send submissions to theroommustlistentome@gmail.com
"See the hands of my offspring making windmills" - I Palindrome I - They Might Be Giants
Please send submissions to theroommustlistentome@gmail.com
Song of the Day - Day 58
Today's song is...
I Should Be Allowed To Think
Oddly appropriate song for today. This song has one of my longest standing mis-heard lyrics. I always thought the line was "I should have a college show" and I never could figure out what that meant until I realized I was hearing it wrong. Makes a lot more sense now.
Beautiful song musically. It's not a song I would ever think to include on a list of favorites and yet it is infinitely listenable. And one I think we have all been able to identify with at one point or another.
Housekeeping
I went on a virtual organizing spree today that included revamping my wiki user profile and making things generally easier to find on this blog.
First, I have made the blog searchable. So if you are looking for a specific post, say the concert recap for Tarrytown, you can enter Tarrytown into the search box and every post in which I have mentioned it will appear, hopefully including the one you were looking for.
Second, I have added labels to each post. Things like concert recap, news, TAPOM, Audience Participation, etc. They are all listed in the word cloud on the right. You can click on a label and all the posts tagged with that label will be displayed. This should help with categorizing different types of posts. If anyone has any requests or suggestions for additional labels they would like to see (basically types of entries you'd like to be able to see a list of), just drop a note in the comments and I will gladly add them.
Third, I have added a page with a list of my live show bootleg collection. The link is also over there on the right. I am always looking to expand and will happily trade. Just send me an email to set something up.
And finally, TDK has started a weekly AIM chat for our TMBG minded friends. If you would like to talk TMBG in real time log on to AIM around 8:30pm on Wednesdays and join the chatroom Cabbagetown. This week Erin, Megan and I will be plotting out a game of TMBG bingo. Good times!
First, I have made the blog searchable. So if you are looking for a specific post, say the concert recap for Tarrytown, you can enter Tarrytown into the search box and every post in which I have mentioned it will appear, hopefully including the one you were looking for.
Second, I have added labels to each post. Things like concert recap, news, TAPOM, Audience Participation, etc. They are all listed in the word cloud on the right. You can click on a label and all the posts tagged with that label will be displayed. This should help with categorizing different types of posts. If anyone has any requests or suggestions for additional labels they would like to see (basically types of entries you'd like to be able to see a list of), just drop a note in the comments and I will gladly add them.
Third, I have added a page with a list of my live show bootleg collection. The link is also over there on the right. I am always looking to expand and will happily trade. Just send me an email to set something up.
And finally, TDK has started a weekly AIM chat for our TMBG minded friends. If you would like to talk TMBG in real time log on to AIM around 8:30pm on Wednesdays and join the chatroom Cabbagetown. This week Erin, Megan and I will be plotting out a game of TMBG bingo. Good times!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 57
Today's song is...
Drinkin'
This tune is really catchy. It really feels like it should be playing over some sort of montage scene from a 70s movie. I think it is something about the horns. And it has one of those well executed beats of silence in the middle which I always like.
Drinkin'
This tune is really catchy. It really feels like it should be playing over some sort of montage scene from a 70s movie. I think it is something about the horns. And it has one of those well executed beats of silence in the middle which I always like.
I'm Not Gonna Say They're Great, I Ain't Gonna Say They Ain't
"State songs, state songs, I can't wait for my favorite one"
I said I needed to do a State Songs post and here it is :-) I don't know how to describe the State Songs album except to say that is so classically Linnell. Like if I were to try to imagine the type of album Linnell would produce on his own this is exactly what I would have envisioned even if I had never heard it. Right down to the band organ.
I rather love Linnell's explanation that the state names were "just a way to create more music without getting having to get bogged down in verbal ideas." So that he can write a song called South Carolina that is actually about a bike crash. Because in Linnell's world, why the hell wouldn't you write a song about a bike crash? I've heard/read Linnell mention a few times that he frequently writes the melody of a song before the lyrics. I like to think of him sitting around with this melody worked out and needing a topic to tie some lyrics together and just latching on to the first thing that pops into his brain. Hmmm, bike crash... that'll work.
Even the band organ makes perfect sense to me, because I think, at heart, Linnell is really kind of a fan boy. And something as antique and complex and precise and really unique sounding as a band organ, is exactly the sort of thing I envision him geeking out over. And putting together this album finally gave him an excuse to write some band organ music.
One of the things that is so unique about this album is the incredible variety of music styles. From songs that essentially sound like TMBG without Flans playing guitar, to ballads, to dirges, to the peppy pipey band organ. Almost every song is a complete 360 from the last and yet there is still a cohesiveness that holds the whole collection together. You know, I think that Linnell fellow might have something here ;-)
A few random thoughts before my list of favorites. I actually prefer the versions of both Pennsylvania and Nevada that appeared on the Hello EP to the ones that ended up on the album. I find the vocal more appealing on the original PA and I like the additional lyrics in NV. "The acorn of the squirrel" and all that. I love the concept of Arkansas and the lyrical idea presented, but the song is a bit too plodding for my taste. However, this quote from the wiki is the best: "However, none of these ships have been the same size or shape of Arkansas, as such a project would be extremely difficult to build, and probably wouldn't float." I love that someone felt the need to say that. And finally, the Montana single is one of the niftiest pieces of vinyl ever created, but sadly we have never successfully gotten it to play on my record player because the state of Maine is slightly bent and keeps bumping into the arm rest. So it's a damn good thing I have Louisiana as an mp3 :-)
Here goes my list. There are six. Don't question it.
6. Louisiana - See I told you it was a good thing I had this as an mp3, otherwise I might never have heard it (well, ok, it's on YouTube). I can't fathom how this didn't make it onto the album. It is a wonderful song.
5. Maine - No, the fact that I am from Maine doesn't make me biased at all. What are you talking about? Actually, I just really love the drums. Boom. Boom. Boom.
4. Montana - "A le-eeeeee-eeeeg" I just love the way he sings that. And the song is just funny. Fantastic imagery.
3. The Song of the 50 States - I love the self referential quality of this and the melody. If one was to make an argument that any of the songs on this album were just TMBG without Flans on guitar, this would be the shoe in since it's got the entire band of Dans playing on it. It is literally TMBG without Flans. Best line? This one: "The time has come for us to sing about a certain place, where everything is in the control of men who are controlling my mind." Also, I am submitting this to my list of songs that Dan Miller is uncredited for singing back-up on (this is one of my pet projects that will probably turn up in one of these posts in the near future).
2. South Carolina - Everything about the song is excellent. The melody, the lyrics, just everything. Perfect. I can not praise this song enough. It makes me happy.
1. West Virginia - This and South Carolina are neck and neck but this is sneaking ahead for sentimental reasons due to how much I love it's live performance. Linnell throws himself all in when he sings this. While I may have been a decade too late for all of Linnell's solo performances, I was there the first time TMBG covered this. Afterward, I read a comment someone made jokingly, that you could hear the Linnell-girls in the audience thudding to the floor as he began the last chorus. The only thing missing from the recording to make it perfect is the absurdly high falsetto Flans lays in of the chorus when the band does it. Priceless.
"Keeping my awake, late at night, can't get them out of my mind"
I said I needed to do a State Songs post and here it is :-) I don't know how to describe the State Songs album except to say that is so classically Linnell. Like if I were to try to imagine the type of album Linnell would produce on his own this is exactly what I would have envisioned even if I had never heard it. Right down to the band organ.
I rather love Linnell's explanation that the state names were "just a way to create more music without getting having to get bogged down in verbal ideas." So that he can write a song called South Carolina that is actually about a bike crash. Because in Linnell's world, why the hell wouldn't you write a song about a bike crash? I've heard/read Linnell mention a few times that he frequently writes the melody of a song before the lyrics. I like to think of him sitting around with this melody worked out and needing a topic to tie some lyrics together and just latching on to the first thing that pops into his brain. Hmmm, bike crash... that'll work.
Even the band organ makes perfect sense to me, because I think, at heart, Linnell is really kind of a fan boy. And something as antique and complex and precise and really unique sounding as a band organ, is exactly the sort of thing I envision him geeking out over. And putting together this album finally gave him an excuse to write some band organ music.
One of the things that is so unique about this album is the incredible variety of music styles. From songs that essentially sound like TMBG without Flans playing guitar, to ballads, to dirges, to the peppy pipey band organ. Almost every song is a complete 360 from the last and yet there is still a cohesiveness that holds the whole collection together. You know, I think that Linnell fellow might have something here ;-)
A few random thoughts before my list of favorites. I actually prefer the versions of both Pennsylvania and Nevada that appeared on the Hello EP to the ones that ended up on the album. I find the vocal more appealing on the original PA and I like the additional lyrics in NV. "The acorn of the squirrel" and all that. I love the concept of Arkansas and the lyrical idea presented, but the song is a bit too plodding for my taste. However, this quote from the wiki is the best: "However, none of these ships have been the same size or shape of Arkansas, as such a project would be extremely difficult to build, and probably wouldn't float." I love that someone felt the need to say that. And finally, the Montana single is one of the niftiest pieces of vinyl ever created, but sadly we have never successfully gotten it to play on my record player because the state of Maine is slightly bent and keeps bumping into the arm rest. So it's a damn good thing I have Louisiana as an mp3 :-)
Here goes my list. There are six. Don't question it.
6. Louisiana - See I told you it was a good thing I had this as an mp3, otherwise I might never have heard it (well, ok, it's on YouTube). I can't fathom how this didn't make it onto the album. It is a wonderful song.
5. Maine - No, the fact that I am from Maine doesn't make me biased at all. What are you talking about? Actually, I just really love the drums. Boom. Boom. Boom.
4. Montana - "A le-eeeeee-eeeeg" I just love the way he sings that. And the song is just funny. Fantastic imagery.
3. The Song of the 50 States - I love the self referential quality of this and the melody. If one was to make an argument that any of the songs on this album were just TMBG without Flans on guitar, this would be the shoe in since it's got the entire band of Dans playing on it. It is literally TMBG without Flans. Best line? This one: "The time has come for us to sing about a certain place, where everything is in the control of men who are controlling my mind." Also, I am submitting this to my list of songs that Dan Miller is uncredited for singing back-up on (this is one of my pet projects that will probably turn up in one of these posts in the near future).
2. South Carolina - Everything about the song is excellent. The melody, the lyrics, just everything. Perfect. I can not praise this song enough. It makes me happy.
1. West Virginia - This and South Carolina are neck and neck but this is sneaking ahead for sentimental reasons due to how much I love it's live performance. Linnell throws himself all in when he sings this. While I may have been a decade too late for all of Linnell's solo performances, I was there the first time TMBG covered this. Afterward, I read a comment someone made jokingly, that you could hear the Linnell-girls in the audience thudding to the floor as he began the last chorus. The only thing missing from the recording to make it perfect is the absurdly high falsetto Flans lays in of the chorus when the band does it. Priceless.
"Keeping my awake, late at night, can't get them out of my mind"
Monday, January 10, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 56
Today's song is...
Phone Phone Phone
Yes, today's song is a ringtone. But a very amusing one. And one with a surprisingly strong musical base considering it's very short length. That is a jammin' little ditty. Now that I have been reminded of these things, I really kind of want to put this on my phone. Now where is that cable that hooks my phone to the computer?
If you haven't heard it before you can download this song and the other TMBG ringtones from Wired.com at this link.
Phone Phone Phone
Yes, today's song is a ringtone. But a very amusing one. And one with a surprisingly strong musical base considering it's very short length. That is a jammin' little ditty. Now that I have been reminded of these things, I really kind of want to put this on my phone. Now where is that cable that hooks my phone to the computer?
If you haven't heard it before you can download this song and the other TMBG ringtones from Wired.com at this link.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 55
Today's song is...
The New German Cinema
Here's the thing about the Partly Cloudy Patriot tracks. I have the audio book and have listened to it, in it's entirety. I quite enjoyed it. But I downloaded it from Audible rather than buying it on CD, which means it not only doesn't have individual discs to find tracks on, it doesn't have any tracks at all. It's just one big 5+ hour long track. So trying to find this specific instrumental in it is damn near impossible. So all I can say is I'm sure this is lovely. I enjoyed all the music from the book. And I hope it will be awhile before another of these tracks pops up in Song of the Day because I have no idea what I will say about the next one.
The New German Cinema
Here's the thing about the Partly Cloudy Patriot tracks. I have the audio book and have listened to it, in it's entirety. I quite enjoyed it. But I downloaded it from Audible rather than buying it on CD, which means it not only doesn't have individual discs to find tracks on, it doesn't have any tracks at all. It's just one big 5+ hour long track. So trying to find this specific instrumental in it is damn near impossible. So all I can say is I'm sure this is lovely. I enjoyed all the music from the book. And I hope it will be awhile before another of these tracks pops up in Song of the Day because I have no idea what I will say about the next one.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 54
Today's song is...
Put Your Hand Inside The Puppet Head
That thing Megan said the other day about Four of Two having so many words in it is exactly one of the things I like best about this song. This is just a superb collection of lyrics. And, in my humble opinion, pretty much the best manufactured drum beat in the entire catalog. And the keyboard part is fun too. This is never a song that makes it onto any of my top favorites lists, but that doesn't mean I don't still think it is brilliant. I kind of have to agree with the person on the wiki who called this one of Flans' anti-work anthems. As loath as I usually am to interpret songs, the verse about "ads up in the subway" frequently comes to mind when I am feeling disgruntled about my job.
And the video. Oh man, I could watch that one moment where Linnell sticks his tongue out at the camera on repeat for days. It makes me laugh every single time. In general though, I feel like this is more of a Flans video. The last frame of him is pretty adorable. And I love the dancing.
The first time I heard this live, I knew it was coming. I could see Dan's setlist from where I was standing and knew almost the whole show before they started playing. It was pretty funny seeing the audience's reaction to it, knowing it was coming. But as a rule, I do not recommend peeking at setlists as it spoils the surprise.
AWESOME GUITAR SOLO. AWESOME GUITAR SOLO. AWESOME GUITAR, AWESOME GUITAR, AWESOME GUITAR SOLO.
Put Your Hand Inside The Puppet Head
That thing Megan said the other day about Four of Two having so many words in it is exactly one of the things I like best about this song. This is just a superb collection of lyrics. And, in my humble opinion, pretty much the best manufactured drum beat in the entire catalog. And the keyboard part is fun too. This is never a song that makes it onto any of my top favorites lists, but that doesn't mean I don't still think it is brilliant. I kind of have to agree with the person on the wiki who called this one of Flans' anti-work anthems. As loath as I usually am to interpret songs, the verse about "ads up in the subway" frequently comes to mind when I am feeling disgruntled about my job.
And the video. Oh man, I could watch that one moment where Linnell sticks his tongue out at the camera on repeat for days. It makes me laugh every single time. In general though, I feel like this is more of a Flans video. The last frame of him is pretty adorable. And I love the dancing.
The first time I heard this live, I knew it was coming. I could see Dan's setlist from where I was standing and knew almost the whole show before they started playing. It was pretty funny seeing the audience's reaction to it, knowing it was coming. But as a rule, I do not recommend peeking at setlists as it spoils the surprise.
AWESOME GUITAR SOLO. AWESOME GUITAR SOLO. AWESOME GUITAR, AWESOME GUITAR, AWESOME GUITAR SOLO.
Stage Announcements - 1/7/11
Ugo.com has posted a countdown of their 50 favorite TMBG songs. I can't say I 100% agree with their choices, but some of their comments are funny. And I am pleased to see they didn't just stick with the most well known tracks, but they certainly made some interesting choices. I can think of at least a half dozen tracks right off the top of my head that I am really surprised weren't in there. Check it out for yourself and see how many you agree with.
They Might Be the 50 Best They Might Be Giants Songs
They Might Be the 50 Best They Might Be Giants Songs
Friday, January 7, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 53
Today's song is...
Why Must I Be Sad?
Good question. Story of my life. Ok, not really, but this week definitely. Damn you, John Linnell, why are you always getting inside my head so accurately?! I am totally one for finding my own emotions in a particular piece of music like the narrator of this song. Not necessarily Alice Cooper (I don't think I have ever consciously listened to Alice Cooper), but certainly lots of other music. Some day when it is Museum of Idiots turn to be Song of the Day we shall talk about how that song perfectly describes my life in 2005. And really who hasn't asked themselves the question "why must I be sad?" now and again? Actually I am finding I like this song more and more, the more I think about it. Fantastic bass line.
Why Must I Be Sad?
Good question. Story of my life. Ok, not really, but this week definitely. Damn you, John Linnell, why are you always getting inside my head so accurately?! I am totally one for finding my own emotions in a particular piece of music like the narrator of this song. Not necessarily Alice Cooper (I don't think I have ever consciously listened to Alice Cooper), but certainly lots of other music. Some day when it is Museum of Idiots turn to be Song of the Day we shall talk about how that song perfectly describes my life in 2005. And really who hasn't asked themselves the question "why must I be sad?" now and again? Actually I am finding I like this song more and more, the more I think about it. Fantastic bass line.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 52
Today's song is...
Four of Two
Appropriate since I just finally bought my own copy of No! yesterday. I always loved the story behind this song. The inspiration found in a broken clock. And it very much reminds me of a Rip Van Winkle sort of thing. They played this at my very first full length family show. Wonderful song. But I always feel a bit bad for the poor narrator. He totally got stood up by his girlfriend and he doesn't even realize it. Also, I have always loved the image of a guy just lying down on the sidewalk because he was tired. That really strikes me as funny for some reason. And because I know someone is going to bring it up, I do prefer the studio release to the original. It's a bit less of a downer.
Four of Two
Appropriate since I just finally bought my own copy of No! yesterday. I always loved the story behind this song. The inspiration found in a broken clock. And it very much reminds me of a Rip Van Winkle sort of thing. They played this at my very first full length family show. Wonderful song. But I always feel a bit bad for the poor narrator. He totally got stood up by his girlfriend and he doesn't even realize it. Also, I have always loved the image of a guy just lying down on the sidewalk because he was tired. That really strikes me as funny for some reason. And because I know someone is going to bring it up, I do prefer the studio release to the original. It's a bit less of a downer.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
There's A Picture Opposite Me - 1/5/11
TDK finally gets in on the fun with another first time entry this week. Keep all these pictures coming guys, I am enjoying them immensely :-)
"Hey, NyQuil driver, get outta my lane, get outta my way" - AKA Driver - They Might Be Giants
Please send submissions to theroommustlistentome@gmail.com
"Hey, NyQuil driver, get outta my lane, get outta my way" - AKA Driver - They Might Be Giants
Please send submissions to theroommustlistentome@gmail.com
Song of the Day - Day 51
Today's song is...
I'm Sick (Of This American Life)
This song sounds like it was recorded as part of an in-studio radio performance. It has that slightly echoey studio sound to it. Which I am sure is a product of it's hasty recording. This is also proof that I can't tell the difference between real and artificial drums since I was just wondering who had been playing drums when I read they were loops.
I'm Sick (Of This American Life)
This song sounds like it was recorded as part of an in-studio radio performance. It has that slightly echoey studio sound to it. Which I am sure is a product of it's hasty recording. This is also proof that I can't tell the difference between real and artificial drums since I was just wondering who had been playing drums when I read they were loops.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
2010 In Review
The end of 2010 marks the first full year this blog has been in existence. I thought it would be fun to do a recap of some of my most memorable They Might Be Giants moments of the year. My intention was to do this for Audience Participation this week, so you could all share your favorite moments too, but obviously I missed by a day. Please, feel free to still share your highlights even though it's the wrong day.
I couldn't even begin to rank these so I am just going chronologically through the year.
- Time.com Video - One minute I am pointing at my computer screen trying to show my roommate where I was standing in the concert scenes and the next I am pointing at an image of my boyfriend's face as we were suddenly visible in the footage. It was very brief and not terribly noteworthy but it made this little fangirl pretty happy none the less.
- Charlotte Show - Oh, the poor Charlotte show, where nothing at all went right. The show may have been cursed and painful to watch but I can not deny that it was VERY memorable. And despite all the problems, it was a good show. I got to see Electric Car for the first time, there was some hilarious banter (the Rob Tanner: Weatherman Detective stuff in particular) and I totally bonded with the trash can I was wedged in next to all night. But I will never, ever forget Linnell turning to Flans at the end of the show and asking, "How ya feelin', Flans?" I am still laughing about it even as I write this. WAIT FOR SCOTT!
- Richmond Show - This was like the antithesis of the Charlotte show. Awesome in every way. Some highlights for me: Jonathan Coulton playing my Twitter requested Ikea; Danny's epic, never matched before or since, rock star style leap in the air, right in our faces at the end of Doctor Worm; Flans asking the audience for a mallet; the entire LSD laced confetti rap. And of course it was all topped off by getting to talk to Danny for the first time after the show. Word of advice if you want him to notice you: stick your tongue out at him :-P
- My 50th Show - My 50th show in Boston had some crowd management issues but was still a wonderful day with mostly beautiful weather and great friends. The "chimp playing a theremin" bit was the highlight of the show for me. I got lots of compliments on my homemade 50th show T-shirt mostly notably from Iggy and Marty. But the best part for me was all the time I got to spend with my TMBG buds before and after the show. There is nothing quite so fun as waiting for a show with a bunch of friends as ridiculously excited as you and then getting to rehash it afterward over good food. But oh boy, did we get wet getting back to the T!
- WDTSS in Arlington - The two versions of WDTSS the band did in Arlington were the funniest I have ever seen. Linnell's Katharine Hepburn and Garrison Keillor impressions made me laugh so hard I nearly cried. This single handedly proves that the family shows are every bit as fun as the rock shows. And bonus points for the twice-as-fast-and-quiet-as-possible version of The Famous Polka at the second show. That was some funny shit.
- This Picture - Or more so the circumstances under which it was taken. I'm leaning back to get Linnell in the shot because he was towering over me and watching everything happen on the LCD screen on my camera. He glanced down at me, saw me trying to get him in frame and bent down to pose until I had the shot. The fact that I watched it happen on the tiny screen and through my peripheral vision made the whole thing even more surreal. And the funniest part was I actually had to reframe the shot after he bent down because I had been pointing the camera higher.
- Marty at the Jonathan Coulton show - There were a lot of cool things about this show: getting serenaded by Chris and Marty singing the Indigo Girls while waiting for the bathroom; Hodgman and Flans in the audience; not to mention, the wonderful show that JoCo put on with all the great new songs. But the most memorable part was definitely waving at Marty, only to have him walk over and strike up a conversation with me. I barely know what I said, I was so nervous, but my favorite part of the conversation was Marty telling me I probably knew Jonathan's songs better than he did and me saying I certainly hoped not, as I couldn't play the drums. Well, Marty, I've been practicing on Rock Band and I might just be able to give you a run for your money now (NOT!)
- Life Is Good - The first thing that comes to mind about this festival was the disastrous bus ride getting there the first day. But it was so wonderful to see the guys again after a three month gap that I forgot about it immediately when they took the stage. It was like a reunion with old friends. There were some great and adorable moments in these shows and I got to watch OK Go standing next to Ira Glass. My geek cred is through the roof.
- The debut of Duende and Canajoharie - The Lupo's show that featured the debuts is the Richmond show's only rival for Best Show Ever in my affections. I haven't decided yet. It was certainly part of the best weekend ever. I've been there for song debuts before but they were all either before I could recognize a new song from an old one or kid's songs. This was the first time I've been conscious of hearing brand new rock songs. And it was thrilling. I love both songs (I especially adore Canajoharie) and I hope they sound as great on the recording as they do live. And as an added bonus I FINALLY got to hear Purple Toupee and 3 other first timers as well. My face hurt after this show from smiling so much.
- A terribly useful and high flying Sharpie - How sad is it that one of my most memorable moments of the year was loaning someone a pen? (Read:VERY sad.) And yet, it was a bit of a thrill for me. I thrill easily, apparently. It felt nice to be useful. Twice! Really the memorable parts of the experience were Danny miming the pen question to me from quite a ways away and thanking me by name when he returned it, and of course, Marty bulleting the damn thing at my head later on. Funny but rather mortifying experience.
- Port Washington Patch article - You guys know me pretty well by now, right? Go ahead and picture my reaction when my phone displays the notification "Danny Weinkauf has sent you a message." Go on, it'll make you laugh. Got it? See, I TOLD you it would make you laugh. I really was that excited. But I didn't want to get my hopes up in case he didn't use the pictures and then he did and I was excited all over again. My work in print! So to speak. Now if only the photo quality were a little better maybe I'd be getting a call from the Pulitzer folks :-P
- Particle Man in Fairfield - I've seen all sorts of funny things done with Particle Man but I think the performance in Fairfield was my favorite. Linnell was just getting wacky and making the funniest sounds and Flans banging on the keyboard, all capped off by Danny making fun of the audience clapping. Absolutely priceless.
- Here Comes Science is nominated for a Grammy! - I knew it would be. I just knew it! But I was still impatiently waiting by the computer and refreshing the page on my phone until I got the confirmation. What a way to cap of the year and so well deserved. I am so very, very proud of the guys for it is a truly wonderful album and you can tell they put a lot of hard work into it. It deserves to win on the merits of Meet the Elements, Paleontologist and Electric Car alone and there are a ton of other wonderful songs. The band has got some stiff competition in the award race this time around but even if they don't win the album is still #1 with me and that ought to count for something. (But I really want them to win! *crosses fingers*)
I also want to add, though it isn't a specific moment, how wonderful it has been this year to make so many new friends both at shows and via this blog. I went, what feels like, a long time in the fan community with only a very small handful of friends and acquaintances and that number has just exploded this year. I have so enjoyed reading all your comments and emails and chatting with people at shows and getting to know everyone. I may have been a fan for almost four years already but I finally feel like I belong now. I have found my people!
Here's hoping that 2011 brings as many memorable TMBG moments as 2010 did. And with any luck, a new rock album, another Grammy and a new tour (sooner rather than later, please)!
I couldn't even begin to rank these so I am just going chronologically through the year.
- Time.com Video - One minute I am pointing at my computer screen trying to show my roommate where I was standing in the concert scenes and the next I am pointing at an image of my boyfriend's face as we were suddenly visible in the footage. It was very brief and not terribly noteworthy but it made this little fangirl pretty happy none the less.
- Charlotte Show - Oh, the poor Charlotte show, where nothing at all went right. The show may have been cursed and painful to watch but I can not deny that it was VERY memorable. And despite all the problems, it was a good show. I got to see Electric Car for the first time, there was some hilarious banter (the Rob Tanner: Weatherman Detective stuff in particular) and I totally bonded with the trash can I was wedged in next to all night. But I will never, ever forget Linnell turning to Flans at the end of the show and asking, "How ya feelin', Flans?" I am still laughing about it even as I write this. WAIT FOR SCOTT!
- Richmond Show - This was like the antithesis of the Charlotte show. Awesome in every way. Some highlights for me: Jonathan Coulton playing my Twitter requested Ikea; Danny's epic, never matched before or since, rock star style leap in the air, right in our faces at the end of Doctor Worm; Flans asking the audience for a mallet; the entire LSD laced confetti rap. And of course it was all topped off by getting to talk to Danny for the first time after the show. Word of advice if you want him to notice you: stick your tongue out at him :-P
- My 50th Show - My 50th show in Boston had some crowd management issues but was still a wonderful day with mostly beautiful weather and great friends. The "chimp playing a theremin" bit was the highlight of the show for me. I got lots of compliments on my homemade 50th show T-shirt mostly notably from Iggy and Marty. But the best part for me was all the time I got to spend with my TMBG buds before and after the show. There is nothing quite so fun as waiting for a show with a bunch of friends as ridiculously excited as you and then getting to rehash it afterward over good food. But oh boy, did we get wet getting back to the T!
- WDTSS in Arlington - The two versions of WDTSS the band did in Arlington were the funniest I have ever seen. Linnell's Katharine Hepburn and Garrison Keillor impressions made me laugh so hard I nearly cried. This single handedly proves that the family shows are every bit as fun as the rock shows. And bonus points for the twice-as-fast-and-quiet-as-possible version of The Famous Polka at the second show. That was some funny shit.
- This Picture - Or more so the circumstances under which it was taken. I'm leaning back to get Linnell in the shot because he was towering over me and watching everything happen on the LCD screen on my camera. He glanced down at me, saw me trying to get him in frame and bent down to pose until I had the shot. The fact that I watched it happen on the tiny screen and through my peripheral vision made the whole thing even more surreal. And the funniest part was I actually had to reframe the shot after he bent down because I had been pointing the camera higher.
- Marty at the Jonathan Coulton show - There were a lot of cool things about this show: getting serenaded by Chris and Marty singing the Indigo Girls while waiting for the bathroom; Hodgman and Flans in the audience; not to mention, the wonderful show that JoCo put on with all the great new songs. But the most memorable part was definitely waving at Marty, only to have him walk over and strike up a conversation with me. I barely know what I said, I was so nervous, but my favorite part of the conversation was Marty telling me I probably knew Jonathan's songs better than he did and me saying I certainly hoped not, as I couldn't play the drums. Well, Marty, I've been practicing on Rock Band and I might just be able to give you a run for your money now (NOT!)
- Life Is Good - The first thing that comes to mind about this festival was the disastrous bus ride getting there the first day. But it was so wonderful to see the guys again after a three month gap that I forgot about it immediately when they took the stage. It was like a reunion with old friends. There were some great and adorable moments in these shows and I got to watch OK Go standing next to Ira Glass. My geek cred is through the roof.
- The debut of Duende and Canajoharie - The Lupo's show that featured the debuts is the Richmond show's only rival for Best Show Ever in my affections. I haven't decided yet. It was certainly part of the best weekend ever. I've been there for song debuts before but they were all either before I could recognize a new song from an old one or kid's songs. This was the first time I've been conscious of hearing brand new rock songs. And it was thrilling. I love both songs (I especially adore Canajoharie) and I hope they sound as great on the recording as they do live. And as an added bonus I FINALLY got to hear Purple Toupee and 3 other first timers as well. My face hurt after this show from smiling so much.
- A terribly useful and high flying Sharpie - How sad is it that one of my most memorable moments of the year was loaning someone a pen? (Read:VERY sad.) And yet, it was a bit of a thrill for me. I thrill easily, apparently. It felt nice to be useful. Twice! Really the memorable parts of the experience were Danny miming the pen question to me from quite a ways away and thanking me by name when he returned it, and of course, Marty bulleting the damn thing at my head later on. Funny but rather mortifying experience.
- Port Washington Patch article - You guys know me pretty well by now, right? Go ahead and picture my reaction when my phone displays the notification "Danny Weinkauf has sent you a message." Go on, it'll make you laugh. Got it? See, I TOLD you it would make you laugh. I really was that excited. But I didn't want to get my hopes up in case he didn't use the pictures and then he did and I was excited all over again. My work in print! So to speak. Now if only the photo quality were a little better maybe I'd be getting a call from the Pulitzer folks :-P
- Particle Man in Fairfield - I've seen all sorts of funny things done with Particle Man but I think the performance in Fairfield was my favorite. Linnell was just getting wacky and making the funniest sounds and Flans banging on the keyboard, all capped off by Danny making fun of the audience clapping. Absolutely priceless.
- Here Comes Science is nominated for a Grammy! - I knew it would be. I just knew it! But I was still impatiently waiting by the computer and refreshing the page on my phone until I got the confirmation. What a way to cap of the year and so well deserved. I am so very, very proud of the guys for it is a truly wonderful album and you can tell they put a lot of hard work into it. It deserves to win on the merits of Meet the Elements, Paleontologist and Electric Car alone and there are a ton of other wonderful songs. The band has got some stiff competition in the award race this time around but even if they don't win the album is still #1 with me and that ought to count for something. (But I really want them to win! *crosses fingers*)
I also want to add, though it isn't a specific moment, how wonderful it has been this year to make so many new friends both at shows and via this blog. I went, what feels like, a long time in the fan community with only a very small handful of friends and acquaintances and that number has just exploded this year. I have so enjoyed reading all your comments and emails and chatting with people at shows and getting to know everyone. I may have been a fan for almost four years already but I finally feel like I belong now. I have found my people!
Here's hoping that 2011 brings as many memorable TMBG moments as 2010 did. And with any luck, a new rock album, another Grammy and a new tour (sooner rather than later, please)!
Song of the Day - Day 50
Today's song is...
Anaheim
I can't believe it took this long in the random selection process to turn up a Venue Song. I would have thought they would be more prevalent given their quantity. Regardless, this one is really funny. I always enjoy watching them recreate the fake horn noises when I see it live (or at least, the two times I've seen it live that I can remember). I like the scratchy old record quality of the recording. But I must admit, though this one amuses me, there are other Venue Songs I enjoy at lot more than this one.
I think Chris Anderson must be pretty fun to hang out with. He seems game for just about anything from this silly video to walking around with a Q on his head.
Anaheim
I can't believe it took this long in the random selection process to turn up a Venue Song. I would have thought they would be more prevalent given their quantity. Regardless, this one is really funny. I always enjoy watching them recreate the fake horn noises when I see it live (or at least, the two times I've seen it live that I can remember). I like the scratchy old record quality of the recording. But I must admit, though this one amuses me, there are other Venue Songs I enjoy at lot more than this one.
I think Chris Anderson must be pretty fun to hang out with. He seems game for just about anything from this silly video to walking around with a Q on his head.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Time Is Marching On
Hello, everyone out there.
First, I must issue an apology. I totally forgot to do Audience Participation last Monday. Then I said I would do it Tuesday and I didn't. I did not have time and when I did have time I was exhausted. So it didn't happen. Profound apologies.
Then I need to apologize again because I am not going to have an entry ready for today either. I am working on a year end wrap up, best of 2010 post that I was intending to use as Audience Participation. I wanted to do it Saturday and ran out of time. Then I was going to do it today and, after a browser crash set me back an hour on some correspondence, once again ran out of time. My goal is to get it up tomorrow.
In the mean time, I do have something to offer you. I've been working on compiling an album of "outtake" photos on Flickr. These are shots from all the shows I've photographed over the last 2+ years that weren't good enough to make it into the regular album but had the potential to be good if they hadn't been blurry or had someone's head in them. Stuff like that. The album is a mix of some decent shots, some terrible shots with funny facial expressions and a lot of somewhat blurry photos. For better or worse, there are now 541 newly posted, mediocre pictures of the band that you can dig through if you've a mind to. You might find something you like.
The album is here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mynameisbluecanary/sets/72157625707963888/
With any luck you will be hearing from me again tomorrow with some 2010 highlights.
Happy New Year everyone!
First, I must issue an apology. I totally forgot to do Audience Participation last Monday. Then I said I would do it Tuesday and I didn't. I did not have time and when I did have time I was exhausted. So it didn't happen. Profound apologies.
Then I need to apologize again because I am not going to have an entry ready for today either. I am working on a year end wrap up, best of 2010 post that I was intending to use as Audience Participation. I wanted to do it Saturday and ran out of time. Then I was going to do it today and, after a browser crash set me back an hour on some correspondence, once again ran out of time. My goal is to get it up tomorrow.
In the mean time, I do have something to offer you. I've been working on compiling an album of "outtake" photos on Flickr. These are shots from all the shows I've photographed over the last 2+ years that weren't good enough to make it into the regular album but had the potential to be good if they hadn't been blurry or had someone's head in them. Stuff like that. The album is a mix of some decent shots, some terrible shots with funny facial expressions and a lot of somewhat blurry photos. For better or worse, there are now 541 newly posted, mediocre pictures of the band that you can dig through if you've a mind to. You might find something you like.
The album is here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mynameisbluecanary/sets/72157625707963888/
With any luck you will be hearing from me again tomorrow with some 2010 highlights.
Happy New Year everyone!
Song of the Day - Day 49
Today's song is...
Reprehensible
Musically, a great song. Lovely little melody with a very retro feel. It's very... relaxed sounding. Does that make sense? And yay, clarinet! The lyrics have a nice rhythm to them and I like how Flans' voice sounds on the recording.
Reprehensible
Musically, a great song. Lovely little melody with a very retro feel. It's very... relaxed sounding. Does that make sense? And yay, clarinet! The lyrics have a nice rhythm to them and I like how Flans' voice sounds on the recording.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 48
Today's song is...
Art Mover
Just can't seem to get enough of the instrumentals around here of late. This one reminds me quite a bit of video game music. Not so much the bridge but the rest of the song definitely. I quite enjoy it.
Art Mover
Just can't seem to get enough of the instrumentals around here of late. This one reminds me quite a bit of video game music. Not so much the bridge but the rest of the song definitely. I quite enjoy it.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Song of the Day - Day 47
Today's song is...
Happy Doesn't Have To Have An Ending
So very, very true. Such a good, happy song. Another great example of not dumbing down the lyrics for the kid's songs. There are some definite vocabulary words in there. And the ending never fails to make me laugh. So random.
Happy Doesn't Have To Have An Ending
So very, very true. Such a good, happy song. Another great example of not dumbing down the lyrics for the kid's songs. There are some definite vocabulary words in there. And the ending never fails to make me laugh. So random.
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