StyleWhipped

Jennifer Corcione: March MUSIC Madness

Ah, March…the month in which we experience longer days, being “Irish” mid-month (or in my case, living vicariously through my ½ Irish boyfriend), fashionable deals (Alison can tell you all about my new blush-colored leather jacket…so pretty!), March Madness (even though basketball is one sport I have never been able to quite follow), and the initial woes (secret joys) of being able to throw open windows and partake in spring cleaning season. March gives us several reasons to celebrate, especially with at least one or two of the albums that dropped in its blustery window. (Justin Timberlake is taking up residence in my daily existence. Haha.)

In March, my musical tastes are always more diverse and shifting, one minute shifting to some John Coltrane on a rainy day and the next, shaking what the good people of New Jersey gave me to some Beck. So in honor of “March Madness”…I put together a little playlist of what I aptly named “March MUSIC Madness”:

1)      Beck – Odelay: Sometimes, I need to release the inner 90’s child. And yes, I could easily gravitate towards my ‘boy-band’ days, but sometimes, you just need a little weird to complete the mood. Beck brings a tone of musical genius to the table. A cacophony of instruments, sounds, and everything in between. As of late, I’ve been really getting into “Devil’s Haircut” (But also don’t forget, the whole album is worth a listen!)

2)      Madcon – Beggin: A bit of a 2009 throwback, but if you’re not up and grooving to this track, then I’m shocked (and a bit disappointed.) I’m sure most of you have heard this song…I promise. (Especially if you watch American Idol, it has been covered on there.) Take a minute to Google it, press play, and have a dance party unlike any other. And for spring cleaning advocates like me, the perfect music to get moving!

3)      Stand – Correspondent: What would March be without a few Irish jams? Instead of going the traditional drinking song route, I encourage each and every one of you to download this album, sit back, and enjoy. Their deliciously grungy rock style and swoon-worthy brogues made my college memories...well, memorable. And if you’re trying to be thrifty, then two tracks you must have are “Sweet Little Lucifer” and “Lift”. (Note: “Sweet Little Lucifer” is featured on their album In A Happy Place.)

4)  The Doors – Break On Through: If I haven’t said it yet, I will now…vinyl is a beautiful thing! Sometimes, digitally downloaded tracks feel so cold and vacant. (The same goes for compact discs.) And when listening to anything remotely classic rock, I want to hear the warmth of pops and skips from a worn-in vinyl record. Jim Morrison and Co. could not sound any better on this song than with a hint of muddled vocals and cryptic, wavering instrumentals.

5)   The Strokes – Comedown Machine: My most recent purchase…aside from JT’s new album. And obviously, representing New York City in all its indie rock glory! Julian Casablancas brings those falsetto vocals back to our ready and waiting ears…and I, for one, was ready to hear it. For a bit of an 80’s vibe, take a listen to “80’s Comedown Machine”.

 

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As we say goodbye to March and begin to welcome April, or what I know better as the real Spring month, it’s important to give March its due. May each of you find the playlist that inspires you to remember this past month with fondness…even within its madness.

-          Jenn

Jennifer Corcione: A Little Bit of February...

February is always one of my favorite months, because it has my favorite form of GTL… Grammys, Tunes, and Love! On February 10^th, like millions of others, I curled up on my cozy couch and prepared for a night of epic live performances, tear-jerking moments, and some of the best acceptance speeches I have ever heard. For those who know my Twitter handle (@jennyrockstar), I managed to ‘live-tweet’ during the entire show. Of course I couldn’t help adding massive amounts of exclamation points at my favorite wins (Mumford and Sons!!!!!), coupled with witty tweets about the celeb reactions in the audience and various wardrobe “no-nos”. (On a related note, Editor-in-Chief Alison and I were SO close to creating a Taylor Swift drinking game based on how many times the camera panned to her. Sheer hilarity.)

But most importantly, the music! The performances and nominated artists were as diverse as they are talented. From artists just emerging on the scene (how amazing was “Carry On” by Fun…seriously?!?)  to returning artists (:::cough, cough::: Justin Timberlake), my boyfriend Matt and I relished in every little part of the show. (And even though it wasn’t shown on the main event, I do know Matt was happy to know even Brian Wilson, one of his all-time faves, won a Grammy too.)

If The Grammys weren’t enough, Valentine’s Day shortly followed, coupled with every attempt made to squeeze love into anything and everything possible. Even greeting cards have now become a means to propose to your significant other. Don’t get me wrong, I love the idea of sharing love with those who mean the most to you, but aren’t there 364 other days to also worry about? (However, it didn’t stop me from being a cheesy romantic, even on the actual holiday.)

Yes, February was full of momentous moments, from Grammys to Valentine’s (and everything in between), there were several opportunities to find and appreciate music in all its forms. And as a special treat, to bring together all the wonderful parts of February for each and every one of you, here’s a special Jenn’s “Little Bit of February” playlist:

1)      Phil Collins – Groovy Kind of Love: What would romance be without a little throwback to this great cover? (It was originally performed by The Mindbenders.) Also, it has partially solidified my love for the show New Girl, especially since this song was used in one of the early episodes of the first season.

2)      Alabama Shakes – Hold On: There’s nothing sexier than a band that can give me the gritty rock sound with a female lead! Cue lead singer Brittany Howard on Saturday Night Live singing in a Brian Wilson-esque style, making her Gibson howl in sync with the rest of her bandmates. And for anyone that missed Howard’s performance at the Grammys for the Levon Helm tribute, it was magical!

3)      The Lumineers – Ho Hey: This may be my favorite song of 2013 (so far!) It’s perfect in every way that one can imagine. It’s got the best rhythm, the words are endearingly romantic, and by the end of the night, it’s a great drunk song. And if you want to go one better, be sure to listen to their self-titled album! (Each song on there is enchanting and comforting – be prepared with to chill at home with some lit candles and a glass of wine.)

4)      fun. – All Alright: The band fun. is everywhere right now…and it’s amazing! And while I do love all their hits at the moment, this particular track off the album Some Nights resonates stronger with me than ever. As lead singer Nate Ruess laments about loss and coping, there’s still that hope that everything will be just that…alright.

5)      Alicia Keys – Girl On Fire: I am in love with this song…and even Alicia Keys just a little. (As a fellow pianist, she amazes me with what she brings to music – it’s refreshing!) Also, her Grammys performance with Adam Levine? That was pretty hot.

6)      Rihanna – Stay: While I may not agree with her life choices, there’s no doubt that this heart-wrenching track about loving someone against the odds is one that I just can’t stop listening to. The Grammy performance was wonderful, but the music video drives the emotions home even more…check it out here.

7)      Miniature Tigers – Easy As All That: Best known for their indie pop sound, Miniature Tigers have become my favorite go-to for car music. And once you hear this catchy little tune, they might become your favorite too! (Trust me, you’ll find yourself singing along after hearing this track at least 2-3 times.)

8)      Imagine Dragons – It’s Time: One of my fave finds thanks to Glee (and Darren Criss killed it!) That signature mandolin lick, the rhythmic clapping you find yourself trying to perfect, and a chorus so hauntingly familiar for every 20-something attempting to figure out their life after college…it’s all there.

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February brought musical opportunity unlike any other! I hope that all of you take time to embark on your own music journeys and discover your own playlist.

- Jenn

Jennifer Corcione: A New Year's Resolution to Stick To!

If there’s one thing I always look forward to with a new year, it’s not only the chance to make resolutions to improve on the previous year, but anticipating new albums to improve my music collection! While 2012 may have been considered a bit of a slow year for music, 2013 is gearing up for some familiar faces, as well as some of my new favorite finds! Check out my top four most anticipated for this year:

1)      Justin Timberlake – As a JT fan through-and-through, this tops my list purely based on excitement for years of boy-band devotion. (Trust me, the many years of making crazy posters and painting my favorite band members’ names on my face cement my music nerd-dom.) But nobody can mess with Justin, especially since he draws major inspiration from the original King of Pop, Michael Jackson. And after a six-year drought, Timberlake is back with a more mature look (and music style) for his adoring fans. His newest single, “Suit & Tie”, is only the first of many soulfully delicious hits we can expect from 20/20 Experience, set to release later this year.

2)      Frank Turner – Now I am a big advocate for having random conversations about music…and picking up a music suggestion or two in the process. And if you love the songwriting style of Mumford & Sons, then you are going to adore Frank Turner (as much as I do!). With his folk/punk mash-up, each song (especially my favorite, “Photosynthesis”) will have you craving a seedy dive bar and a freshly poured pint in your right hand! Look out for his latest, Tape Deck Heart¸ set for a March release! (And for those who want something a little more, check out Frank Turner at the Bowery on March 13^th!)

3)      Vampire Weekend – These Columbia University alums are one of my favorite indie rock guilty pleasures! Ever since I heard their music on I Love You, Man and How I Met Your Mother, I’m always playing their music when I’m in need of a diversion from every-day life. They’re fun, the hooks are catchy, and I can listen “Holiday” whether I’m in a cleaning mood or a ‘lay on the couch’ mood. And it’s not a moment too soon that these NYC boys drop a new album chockfull of those signature vocals and pop-rockiness on May 7^th!

4)      Phoenix – Kudos to our fabulous editor-in-chief for introducing me to the awesomeness that is Phoenix! This alternative rock/synthpop sensation from Versailles has a sound unlike any other I have ever heard…I’m not sure whether to air guitar or bounce around with a strobe-light! (Maybe both, I’m not picky.) Even now, almost four years since its release, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix can be found in constant rotation in my car – “Lisztomania” always blasted on repeat. Be sure to check out the band’s website www.wearephoenix.com for some new album teasers – their next album, Bankrupt!, hits music stores this April.

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Whether you’re looking forward to these albums (or the several others set to drop this year), 2013 is gearing up to be one incredible year of music! Make a resolution to treat yourself to it. 

Jennifer Corcione: The True Gift of Music...

2012 has certainly been an incredible year for music! Firstly, I want to thank all of you wonderful readers for giving me the opportunity to share with you all of the wonderful music/awards shows commentary/interviews I have posted. I am most grateful for the opportunity to have you join me in my music journey! And now…let’s get right down to it!

With only days until Christmas, I’m sure many of you (like me) are still in the last-minute scramble to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. That one aunt or uncle who you never know what to give them (but they always manage to give you the best gift ever.) Your favorite hairdresser who always makes you look fabulous and always listens to your life story each time you’re in the chair. Even when you have to survive the daunting “Secret Santa” gift exchange for someone you’ve never spoken more than two words to.

Yes, we all have those last-minute gifting mental blocks – whether we’d like to admit it or not. But this year, instead of grabbing for that Dunkin’ Donuts gift-card or the generic box of chocolates, get a little creative and share the gift of music! Homemade playlists are always appreciated, but for those of you short on time and patience, why not try a few of these stocking stuffer suggestions?

For the alternative junkie: We all have that one person in our lives still stuck in the 90’s alternative rock scene. And while I would love to suggest adding Foo Fighters to their collection, why not try something a little different – like the latest Smashing Pumpkins album Oceania? Billy Corgan and Co., like the years, have evolved their sound little by little, yet retained that wonderful rock quality that brings us back to ripped jeans, flannel shirts, and Doc Martens. (And for a real reminiscent moment, “The Celestials” might just do the trick.)

For the “Old Soul”: When nothing else will do but one of the classics, I say figure out preference of genre and have some fun! If they’re into the 60’s folk scene, then Bob Dylan’s Tempest might satisfy the itch, because Dylan is just awesome. Or for a little more 70’s/80’s rock n’ roll, nothing says classic like the boss himself, Bruce Springsteen! Wrecking Ball truly captures quintessential Springsteen – and yes, being a Jersey girl, he’s one of the best! And if they’re truly a soul kind of person, then Bobby Womack’s The Bravest Man in The Universe will work just nicely – check out the track “Dayglo Reflection” featuring Lana Del Ray.

For Mr./Ms. “Off The Beaten Path”: There will always be that one person who doesn’t quite fit into a particular category – especially since they love to take chances with their music! (Obviously, my favorite person in the world to shop for.) If you can’t figure a particular genre to work with, then why not try out some bluegrass rock for a bit of a challenge? Trust me, those ‘eclectic tastes’ will appreciate it when you decide to hand them the latest Avett Brothers album The Carpenter.  And if they can’t get enough, add a little Alabama Shakes Boys & Girls to the mix! “Hold On” has found a permanent home on my iPod.

For the modern-day British Invasion fanatic: The British music scene has made a bit of a comeback since Mumford & Sons. And yes, I would recommend getting Babel because it’s just that wonderful – no joke, go out and get it…for everyone! (And of course Adele – but do I even need to mention her?!? This is just a given.) Yet if you’re looking for a non-Mumford gift item, you could also try out Allo Darlin’ and their latest album Europe. I’ve really been into “Capricornia” and “Northern Lights” these days…I have a feeling your gift recipient will be too!

For the traditional Holiday enthusiast: I’ll admit it: I’m a holiday junkie! And for those you know who are just like me, what else will do but a holiday album? Especially for this season, I highly recommend Michael Bublé’s Christmas. This modern-day heartthrob can make anyone swoon with his throw-back crooning style. I may also be slightly addicted to his rendition of “Jingle Bells” featuring the Puppini Sisters…or his homage to Mariah Carey by covering her famous holiday hit “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” And if they’re a true traditionalist – then Bublé nails it with one of my all-time favorites “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.”

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Whether they’re into electronic or disco or even heavy metal, remember that the greatest gift you can give your loved ones is time together…and some great tunes!

- Jenn

Jennifer Corcione: America has voted...for music!

As most of you know (or have read), I’m a sucker for music awards shows. When the Grammys came up in February, I was ready and raring to go, studying the nominees like sports fans study the stats on their favorite athletes. And for the most part, I was spot on about my picks winning the coveted gramophone. But, that was chosen by a committee of professionals in the music industry, while the American Music Awards, which aired this past Sunday, was chosen by the fans.

The American Music Awards this year were…to say the least, underwhelming. Well, at least a few of the auto-tuned performances (aka, everyone EXCEPT P!nk, who always rocks any televised performance she has ever done) and fashion statements (Nicki Minaj needed to up her extreme fashion and NOT copy an already-worn style). But when it came to the nominations, I was on pins and needles – hoping for an outcome that screamed more head-bopping and less teeny-bopper. (Even though Beiber seemed to score the most awards – I am still confused as to how.)

I managed to call every winner (even though I may not have agreed with the fans for their choice in music – such is the life of a music critic!) And even though I was (slightly) sad to see my favorites not make the cut with the voters, I decided to share with you my picks for some of the top categories on the AMAs.

1)      Artist of the Year:  True, Beiber snagged this category and did possibly the cutest thing by dragging his mother up for his acceptance speech, yet I would not have minded seeing Maroon 5 snag this award. It’s been a banner year for Adam Levine and Co., especially with such hits as “One More Night”, “Stereo Hearts”, and “Payphone”.  (All of which are in current rotation in my iTunes collection!) And sorry Beibs, but Levine is just better eye candy!

2)      New Artist of the Year: Without hesitation my boyfriend, Matt, and I called Carly Rae Jepsen as the winner, clearly based on principle that “Call Me Maybe” was parodied more than “Somebody That I Used To Know” by roller derby girls, the Harvard Men’s Baseball team, and one of the most famous of all – the 2012 Summer Olympics. All of that aside, it would have really been wonderful to see Fun. win this award instead. “Call Me Maybe” had catchiness, but  “We Are Young”, coupled with “Some Nights”? Fun. (and their music) have anthem quality!

3)      Favorite Album Pop/Rock: Ahhhhh, another Beiber win…but I was (secretly) rooting for One Direction! Yes, they’re a little boy-bandish for my taste – although my high school self would have gone absolutely NUTS for their perfectly coifed look and even more cheesy harmonies! (Yes, I was in LOVE with boy bands for many years…I hang my head in a bit of guilty shame for this one.) Yet 1D had all the components to clearly win this category with the fans. Maybe next year?

4)      Favorite Band, Duo, or Group – Country: Oh, Lady Antebellum clearly had this one in the bag. “Need You Now” catapulted their country stardom into the mainstream and they never looked back. But while country is a genre I clearly know very, very little about, Zac Brown Band has all the makings (in my mind) for a powerhouse! (Well, that and Matt played “Chicken Fried” and “Toes” so many times during the summer that I could sing those songs in my sleep.)

5)      Favorite Artist – Electronic Dance Music (EDM): It was announced on the AMAs that this is the first year Electronic Dance Music has been acknowledged as a growing trend…hence this new category! David Guetta obviously had this one all wrapped up, especially with some of the artists he has had the chance to work with recently (Usher, Black Eyed Peas, LMFAO…to name a few!) Calvin Harris also has great musical charisma, but my pick? Have to go with Skrillex. He has an original sound in the industry and normally, while I am dead against the idea of electronic music having any bearing on the music industry…its growing popularity has caused me to adapt to respecting the trend.

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Whatever your preference, be sure to check out the full list of nominees and winners from the 2012 American Music Awards by clicking here. And for next year’s show – remember, like the election season, your vote counts!

- Jenn

Jennifer Corcione: Looking back never sounded so magical...

October is always sort of a weird month for me when it comes to music. Between all the Halloween-themed soundtracks and “Rock"tober in full swing…I’m always at a bit of a loss at which musical direction to take. Instead, classic scary movie marathons, coupled with picking up my favorite thriller novels curb my constant need for new music…at least for a moment or two.

I consider October a bit of a lull period before November kicks off another one of my favorites – the American Music Awards…more on that next month. (And oh yes, I’m ready with commentary on my nomination picks before you can finish “and the winner is…”)

But in this lull, I couldn’t leave my trusty readers without some great new music to check out! So I’ve found a re-kindling for my musical excitement with Ben Gibbard’s new solo album, Former Lives.  If you’re not familiar with Ben Gibbard’s work, I’m sure you’ve heard of the bands Death Cab For Cutie (you most likely consider “I Will Follow You Into The Dark” to be one of the greatest indie alternative love songs of all time) and The Postal Service (you’re still trying to figure out all the words to “Such Great Heights,” because it’s perfect). In Former Lives, Gibbard sheds the group dynamic and proves that as a solo artist, he can truly stand out on his own…in songs chock-full of the pursuit of love and the loneliness that lack of love can bring.     

Gibbard creates a sound reminiscent of a mixture of Aimee Mann and James Taylor: clean in instrumentation, yet keeping those signature lyrics we all know and love. For the quintessential tear-jerker, check out “Teardrop Windows,” a melancholy tale in loneliness through life…wishing that there was at least someone to share in those simple moments. And for those who have a larger than life view on love, then “Lily” is the perfect song for you. The way Gibbard describes ‘Lily’ using descriptive and bold metaphors…it made me swoon and dream of Ben Gibbard writing that song for me.

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Gibbard perfectly blends his "past self" with a sound unlike any other. While most of the songs reflect around the singular romantic theme, the music is perfect for the mellowness of fall, with just a touch of pep! Check out Former Lives, now available on iTunes...happy listening!

~Jenn

Jennifer Corcione: 'Discovery' Takes On A Whole New Meaning!

If I had to pick one particular genre that I feel the closest connection to…it’s rock! Yes, I have my jazz cds, an obscene amount of pop music, and let’s not even start in on my handful of dance albums. (Club Mix 97 was definitely one of my jams and a favorite guilty pleasure.) But it is rock music that truly resonates with me. It makes me want to drum on every surface imaginable, belt power ballads at ear-splitting levels, and air guitar so hard you’d think I actually knew how to play one! In my area, it’s nice to have at least 95.9 WRAT contributing to my inner rockstar, yet sometimes I also crave a touch of alternative/indie to balance out my mood. So imagine my surprise when during my drive into work one humid summer morning, like their catchy gimmick states, I ‘discovered’ New Rock 101.9! (:::insert heavenly sound here:::)

Featuring a mix of new and 90’s rock/alternative, New Rock 101.9 has brought back to radio what I’ve missed the most, a dedicated rock station that features not only the music of my childhood, but the music that I hope to add (and feature) to my collection. As a little treat for all of you, check out some of my favorite 101.9 tracks on this month’s playlist and be sure to browse the New Rock 101.9 page (or tune in) here: New Rock 101.9.

Jenn’s ‘Alternative’ Discovery Playlist:

1 – Walk by Foo Fighters: I don’t know whether it is Dave Grohl’s gritty voice, the epic lyrics, or the perfect drumming…maybe a combination of all! Foo brings an anthem like no other!

2 – Too Close by Alex Clare: If you’ve watched television within the past few months, you would have heard this track on the new Internet Explorer commercials! (And it is super catchy!)

3 – Gold on the Ceiling by Black Keys: My newest addiction? THIS song! The beat of the drums, coupled with the vintage vibe of the lyrics…perfection. (I can’t stop listening or dancing to it!)

4 – Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana: For those in need of a healthy dose of grunge, look no further! When I’m in need of ripped jeans and a sense of rebellion, listening to this classic by Nirvana brings me back to my childhood (and a need for thrashing around uncontrollably.)

5 – Bulls on Parade by Rage Against The Machine: Every once in a while, I need a good politically angst-filled jam. Rage executes the request perfectly with their charged-up rock anthems…especially this one!

6 – Cough Syrup by Young the Giant: Cue the new alternative…now! Young the Giant injects a little bit of that West Coast indie scene into a re-emerging rock scene! The lyrics offer that feel of angst, mirroring the days of grunge with a modern twist.

7 – Oh Love by Green Day: One of my favorite modern punk-rock bands returns to the radio…better than ever! (And for even more Green Day, be sure to pre-order their ¡UNO!,¡DOS!,¡TRÉ! box set!)

8 – Paradise by Coldplay: Ever since the Grammys, I haven’t been able to get this track out of my head! The lyrics are heartfelt, the melody is addicting, and every time I hear it…I end up looking crazy (or at least I think I do) belting the chorus at the top of my lungs!

9 – Today by Smashing Pumpkins: Whenever I hear this song, I’m taken right back to 7th grade and that feeling of carefree childhood. I hope that when you hear this song…you are too.

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Allow your own sense of music discovery to take over every now and then…you never know what you can find to add to your own playlist!

- Jenn

Jennifer Corcione: A Little Something to get into the "Monday" Groove....

Let’s face it—Mondays are the bane of our existence. Sunday becomes that nagging reminder that our weekend fun is over and the work week is upon us. And even with August rolling on by and Labor Day Weekend slowing approaching, it’s only a matter of time until we reach the end of summer. (Insert extremely sad face here.)

Fortunately, I look forward to Mondays, if nothing more than for the Urban Outfitters website featuring what I have come to know as “Music Mondays”! Every Monday, the trendy clothing/lifestyle site features five (free!) songs from up & coming (even a few legendary) artists.

Shintaro Sakamoto

Without a second thought (or even a first listen), I make the choice to download the five randomly-chosen songs. Sometimes, the best part about finding new tunes is just deciding to impulsively buy/download an artist/band that you’ve never heard before…and give it a chance. (And it makes for great shares on my column!)

While I may be into some artists/bands over others, I’ve decided to feature 24 of my favorite song picks! (And trust me, there’s a little bit for everyone.) If you’re into the American folk scene, why not check out Raleigh, North Carolina for Bowerbirds? Or for a bit of an international feel, check out
Ghanian music legend Ebo Taylor? Maybe if you’re more into the Asian influence, check out Shintaro Sakamoto, the former leader of Japanese psych pop band Yuka Yuka Teikoku? (I haven’t been able to stop playing “In a Phantom Mood” for the past few weeks! Very addicting.) Even for those more into an electronic utopia groove, Vancouver’s Teen Daze would be more your speed.

The Heartless Bastards

Whatever your preference may be, there’s always a little something for everyone with Music Mondays! You can check out all Urban Outfitter’s Music Monday playlists (just in case you miss one Monday and/or want to listen to a specific playlist) by clicking here: LSTN.  Aside from Music Mondays, also feel free to check out all their fabulous music features! (Their LSTN playlist is quite fun too.)

 

Jenn’s Music Mondays Playlist

1)      A Walk – Tycho

2)      Coast to Coast – Twerps

3)      Capricornia – Allo Darlin’

4)      Gimme A Beer – Diamond Rugs

5)      Parted Ways – The Heartless Bastards

6)      In The Yard – Bowerbirds

7)      Cracking Eggs – My Best Fiend

8)      The Look of Lust – Standard Fare

9)      Wild Desire – King Tuff

10)   Dead Pontoon – Toro Y Moi

11)   Goldmine – Colleen Green

12)   Exercise #3 (Buildings) – CFCF

13)   Brooklyn Sunburn (Lushlife Remix) – Teen Daze

14)   Stay Useless – Cloud Nothings

15)   Gotta Go – Oberhofer

16)   Walkin’ Down My Street – Nude Beach

17)   Messin’ Up My Mind – Fletcher C. Johnson

18)   Quick! – The Magnetic Fields

19)   Yaa Amponsah – Ebo Taylor

20)   Millions – Eternal Summers

21)   How Long Have You Known – DIVE

22)   Pale Moon – Wymond Miles

23)   In A Phantom Mood – Shintaro Sakamoto

24)   To Be Young – Two Wounded Birds

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I hope all of you enjoy the rest of your summer and if there are any fun music discoveries you find, feel free to share them! In musical discoveries (even free ones), the journey is the best part.

~ Jenn

 

Jennifer Corcione: What Was "Lost" Can Now Be Found....

To preface this month’s column, I need to rewind back to approximately a year and a half ago. While I may love music and own an extensive collection of more musicians than you knew existed, I am extremely picky when it comes to my favorites. The criteria is simple: the music must be just as good live as it is on the album, the material be strong quality, and the “full package” engaging me to want to listen to more of it. (Granted, if the musicians are decent looking, that never hurts either!)

So imagine my surprise when after a year and a half of performing, my favorite west-coast indie rock group Bonnie Dune (finally) released their first album, The Lost EP. Even though I have been content with my bootlegs of studio and live versions of the band’s tracks, it’s more than just about the music. It’s about Justin Wilczynski, Seth Roberts, Joshua Kerr and Cory Monteith (yes, the Glee guy) delivering songs that feel like pages from my own diary transformed into an album.

True, there are only eight tracks and most of them have been heard several times over through fans clamoring for every bit of the guys they can get their hands on, yet it works. (Well, that and I can’t get enough of those songs I have played hundreds of times over!) The tracks intimate precise selection and perfection in simple melodies, passion ever-present in the soothing timbre of Wilczynski’s vocals. The album tells a story we’re all familiar with: love, loss, friendship and the journey of self-discovery. (In fact, The Lost EP hits so close to home that my first tattoo may be lyrics from “Sailboat”, a tale of growing up and holding on to those things we love.)

Aside from the album, I was fortunate to see the band perform in Hershey, PA last year (and snag a super-cool VIP wristband to meet the guys), an experience I will always cherish. Also featuring Jacob Wick (The Honey Trees) on keyboard, the live show was not only amazing; it was full of love for the screaming throng of fans and glimpses into the friendship between talented (and sweet) musicians. Even after a rigorous ½ hour set, each VIP recipient was greeted with a smile and a “thank you for coming” (at the very least.) Some fans shared gifts, pictures, stories, even a joke or two with the guys. (Josh and Cory, I’m still waiting on a karaoke night!)  

To snag a copy of The Lost EP (or share it with all of your friends), you can find it on iTunes here: The Lost EP. Although I love every single track, I encourage you to not only listen to “Sailboat”, but also feel free to check out “Better View” and “Quiet Confidence.” Maybe you’ll find what once was 'lost' too. 

~ Jenn

P.S. – Minus the full band photo, the rest of the pictures featured are from my experience at Hershey Park…enjoy!

 

 

Jennifer Corcione: Summertime...the Vintage Edition

As summer rolls in, I find myself in a weird state of musical euphoria: vintage. Yes, while I do love all different types of music based on my iTunes (and record/CDs/tapes) collection, when that summer frame of mind hits, I just want to put on the classics and breathe in every bit of the season that I can! And it isn’t until I feel it’s summer that I’m ready to start getting ‘old school.’ (In this case: the first warm summer evening I drove home with the windows down…such bliss.)

The most exciting part about music as of recently is the emergence of artists who try to replicate that vintage sound, creating those familiar melodies through use of analog recording methods or introducing particular instruments into certain tracks. In place of a playlist, here are some fun albums to “set the mood” for Summer 2012!  

For those beach days (or when you want to kick it poolside)

Summer Twins – Summer Twins: This Riverside, CA female duo delivers an almost island-like feel with their sound! (And only recently did they add an additional guitar player & bassist for their live show.) Drawing inspiration from 50’s & 60’s rock, their self-titled album is sure to mellow anyone out while they’re laying out working on their tan. (I even dare you to watch the waves roll in to the song Stars Aligned…you won’t be disappointed!)

For a night on the town (or something a little more cozy)

Time’s All Gone - Nick Waterhouse: I love the idea of a current artist not afraid to record analog instead of digital. (Think old-school recording studio vs. auto-tune.) Waterhouse delivers this retro-soul style that has me grabbing for a tea-length cocktail dress, peep-toe heels, and a dirty martini. His 50’s/60’s R&B vibe with an impressive horn section and backup singers is also a perfect fit with the swing of a warm summer night with the windows open, a bottle of red wine, and the hums & cracks of your favorite vinyl record. (And before you wonder what track to start with, I say start at the beginning with Say I Wanna Know. While I love the entire album, the title track grabbed me enough to want to purchase before hearing the rest!)

For the trip ahead (on your way to another exhilarating destination)

Tell Me (What’s On Your Mind) – Allah-Las: While this could fall into the same category as ‘beach music’, this particular EP stands out and makes you envision summer road trips with the windows rolled down and the wind in your hair going down the highway. If ever there was modern music that embodied that “surfer rock” sound (aside from Chalk & Numbers), this would be it: a California-based band not afraid to bring back memories of quintessential retro west coast. (On your next road trip, try turning up the track Long Journey to get you through that bumper-to-bumper traffic.)  

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Whatever your listening pleasure may be, be bold with your summer soundtrack. Summertime creates some of the most memorable moments we hold onto…let’s make sure the music can resonate just as strong.

~ Jenn