Monthly Archives: December 2013

by

Song of the Day #1,989: ‘Pesada (Con Maigaz)’ – Control Machete

amoresperrosI’m not really sure what to say about this one. I own this song because it is on the Amores Perros soundtrack, which features a couple of other Control Machete songs I really like.

This song, not so much. Not due to the language barrier but because it’s a little too hard-edged for a man of my refined tastes.

As for the movie, if you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it. Written by Guillermo Arriaga and directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, it’s a visceral, emotional roller coaster ride set in Mexico City.

Continue reading →

by

Song of the Day #1,986: ‘Reflektor’ – Arcade Fire

arcade_fire_reflektorBest Songs of 2013 – #8

I still don’t know what to make of Arcade Fire’s newest album, Reflektor, a record that has shown up on an equal number of top ten and “most overrated” lists.

One thing is certain — these guys are ambitious. In a music landscape dominated by fizzy pop and hip-hop retreads, we need bands like this to push the boundaries, even if they sometimes push them to places we don’t want to go.

Continue reading →

by

Song of the Day #1,985: ‘Like a Rose’ – Ashley Monroe

ashley_monroe_like_a_roseBest Songs of 2013 – Best Songs of 2013 – #9

This has to be the strongest year in recent memory for female country artists. I’ve already posted a Pistol Annies song, and today’s SOTD is the first of three by female country performers in my top ten.

Ashley Monroe is herself a member of Pistol Annies, making her the only artist to show up in my top 25 twice.

Continue reading →