My Music, it has a flavor

5.2.08 New Music of the Day: Coldplay?

2008-05-02T15:17:00.005-05:00

Hai guys, did you miss me? I think the last ten posts or so mention how me and Erin are busy so I won't rehash that. However, I should note that my new PS3 and a certain MMO are eating up a lot of my time, not to mention that one girl I know. I digress.

Coldplay is doing that free music thing that is all the rage these days and is offering a free track off their forthcoming album, Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends. The song is called "Violet Hill" and it's alright. I mean, it's musically all over the place, but in the end, it provides that hook that Coldplay is so damn good at. You should listen for yourself. It's free for a limited time and all you have to do is give up your email address. Go there now!

Okay, I can't resist this. After you listen to it, you have to tell me what you think. Because it kicks off with this whimsical percussive beat that immediately brought Yellow Submarine-era Beatles to mind or even that-one-VH1-concert-in-the-90s that Fleetwood Mac did. It's so.. un-Coldplay-like. And the reverb!? WTF the reverb??? I have never been a fan of that stupid reverb. That shouty singing style is not for you, sensitive little Chris Martin. The verses are pretty much garbage but when you get to the bridge, the chorus, and at the end, when he quietly asks, "If you love me, won't you let me know?"... those make the song work. But it's another one of those songs that leave me ignoring the majority of it just to get to the good parts (Counting Crows, Death Cab, even Justin Timberlake). Still looking forward to it though.

I swear, all those bands that I really liked back in college and in the early part of this decade... they're leaving me a little flat with these new albums. Does that mean I'm getting OLD? Fuhhhhhh.

4.5.08 Song of teh Weekend: Jose Gonzalez, Lovestain

2008-04-05T17:59:00.004-05:00

It's a lazy Saturday in Chicago. The skies are blue and the winds are still. The first day of the year when you can go outside in shorts and a t-shirt and feel the sun spilling warmth on your face; a slight chill in the air and the ground swollen with melted snow to remind you that it's not quite summer yet. I live for days like this. Good days to lay around or head out into the sun. Better yet, with someone else.

I heard this song and thought, yah, I'd like to do that. What are you doing today?

Jose Gonzalez - Lovestain (live)

4.2.08 Song(s) of teh Day: Cut Copy

2008-04-02T17:49:00.003-05:00

I'm feeling a bit lazy lately, and I can empathize with Erin's lack of musical inspiration. Sometimes good tunes just quit raining from the heavens and I have to go digging around.

Lucky for me, I didn't have to dig too long. I was thinking about Cut Copy and exactly what they're about. I've only heard a couple of their songs and I was pleasantly surprised to hear that these Aussies are actually pretty damn good. It's categorized as Electronica and while that is accurate, they also find a way to rock. Haha, Wikipedia cites that their music is sometimes called Indie Dance or Electroclash. What will they think of next. I feel like a noob.

So I'm droppin 3 songs on you today. The first two hail from their 2004 release, Bright Like Neon Love and the third is from their latest release, In Ghost Colours (which is available from the iTunes store for a mere US$6.99!

I especially love "Zap Zap" and its mellow grooves. Most of the song is instrumental but remember when I talked about Death Cab's 4 minute masturbatory bore called "I will possess your heart"? Yah, these guys know how to rock the instrumental (as they should).

"Going Nowhere" brings the rock. If you get a chance, check out the video on YouTube (gotta head home so no time to link!) It was shot in one continuous take and the dancing is pretty dope.

And finally "Hearts on Fire" to give a nod to their new stuff and oh hai! it's a good song too.

Birkez!

Cut Copy - Zap Zap

Cut Copy - Going Nowhere

Cut Copy - Hearts on Fire

3.25.08 Video of teh Day: Pete & the Pirates, Knots

2008-03-25T22:07:00.002-05:00

Caught this on Pitchfork today... Pete & the Pirates doing a fun times music video in a car. There ain't nothing wrong with listening to a rockin, happy song. Not to mention that I diggeth the brit stuff. So it maded me happy. I mean, it's simple. So enjoy.

I'm in a bit of a music lull. Keeping busy and now that I'm not DJing, not finding as much new music. But today, I found this lil gem. Feel free to pick up their new album via download at the Stolen Recordings online shop.

Cheerio! Birkez

Song of teh day: Death Cab for Cutie, I will possess your heart

2008-03-19T19:32:00.004-05:00

Death Cab for Cutie revealed the first single off their forthcoming album on MySpace yesterday. The song is called “I Will Possess Your Heart” and it clocks in at a lengthy 8 minutes, 33 seconds. Holy damn! Where to start?

Well the new album is called Narrow Stairs and is due to come out May 13, 2008. You can already buy the first single at amazon.com and Atlantic Records. I, for one, welcome our sullen indie rock overlords. I’m pumped for this new album. I cannot bear to listen to Plans another day. I wore it out.

So back to the single. What strikes me right away is the raw sound that it introduces in the first 4:35 of purely instrumental music. A bass line that has echoes of Veruca Salt’s “Shutterbug” (omg, YES I referenced Veruca Salt but when you hear this, you’ll know I’m right,) and quick and garage jam-like drums that quickly march along in time. This FEELS like old Death Cab. But not Death Cab. I remember the first time I heard the We have the facts and we’re voting yes album... It was raw and full of ambition, all while lacking that polish that we’ve come to expect from major label bands. This really feels that way. So what’s up with that?

This is the first single to the follow-up to their first commercially successful album? On a major label? Here’s what I like about this move. Death Cab is acting out. They command enough clout to put something out there they want to put out... But are they reaching too far outside of their bread and butter? I’ve listened to the song at least 8 times on repeat and YES, I like it. The song flys by and doesn’t leave you exhausted as if it were an 8 minute musical marathon. Ben Gibbard seems to have found himself some bravado as he sings...

“How I wish you could see the potential, the potential of you and me...”
“You gotta spend some time, love/You gotta spend some time with me/and I know that you’ll find, love/I will possess your heart”

I see the potential. But a) he’s not convincing me. Ben Gibbard tells you how he FEEEEEELS, not how you’re gonna feel about HIM. And b) the lyrics aren’t that deep. I know where he’s going. But the song feels unfinished. I saw a blogger mention that Death Cab sounds like Coldplay now which actually made me LOL. But no, it’s just different. Raw and defiant. I just wonder if they have the chops to pull it off.

Looking forward to hearing more in May. In the meantime, enjoy this streaming track. No download this time as the single is generously available for purchase online here and here. Enjoy!

Death Cab for Cutie - I will possess your heart

3.14.08 Song of teh Day: Sia, Day Too Soon

2008-03-14T00:05:00.003-05:00

I know that Stein/Erin/EMoface posted Sia just the other day but this song is terrific. I don't feel expressive. But I can say that the entire album feels like a summer album. Makes me feel warm... I'm anxious for spring to get here and warm weather kissing is one of my favorite things to do. This is what "Day Too Soon" feels like.

Have you kissed someone today?

Sia - Day Too Soon

3.5.08 Song of rebuttal - Hot Chip, Ready for the Floor

2008-03-05T10:21:00.003-06:00

I've been planning on posting this song for a while, just haven't gotten around to it. I thought it was only right to post the original. Sometimes, there ain't nothin' like the real thing.

Here's to better moods.

Hot Chip - Ready for the Floor

3.2.08 Songs Of Teh Sunday Afternoon: Snake River Conspiracy, You and Your Friend

2008-03-02T15:00:00.007-06:00

Hrrrrm. Birkez has been missing from the blog lately. It's mostly because it hurts to live right now. But I digress.

I'm ready to head home after being gone for a long 2 weeks and oh my shit! I miss my house. My beddddd. ZOMG.

I have a song for you. It's fun! This song has a sexy little vocalist, lazily singing to you about her being in love with you (and your hot female friend). Ahhh love songs about threesomes! I was reminded of this fun little ditty last night as an effusively sexy girl sang this to me.. unbeknownst to her. Don't you just love it when that happens?

*Birkez smiles* Enjoy the song.

Snake River Conspiracy - You and Your Friend

2.26.08 Song(s) of teh Day: The Technologic Edition

2008-02-26T16:15:00.006-06:00

The long awaited where-the-fuck-have-you-been? post is here! Birkez returns. Birkez rides again. Bahhh no one cares. You just want me to get to the music. I have lots to share with you today! Lets get to it.

This post is inspired by all things technologic; Second Life gestures and being insufferably connected to the the world via cell phones, iPod Touches, cameras, internet, laptops and the like. The post feels so big in my head and I have no idea how to spit it out. I've been pondering it for two days now and I can't find the words. Let me give it a shot... Ooof / o.O

I was staying in a hotel early last week and my friend and I were terribly amused with the fact that even 1000 miles from home, I could still beam moving images of myself to the world while checking my email from the toilet. It's incredible, the amount of connectivity people experience every day with their gadgets. To think of the old days, going on vacation and possibly phoning friends or even sending a postcard was the most contact you'd have. It was "unplugging" without having to name it or even thinking about it really. These days, people do special segments about "unplugging" and surviving life without cell phones. Cue the violins/how retarded.

Then there's the Second Life part of the inspiration! Sound gestures make their way around the sluniverse, passing from friend to friend or sold in stores. Essentially gestures are just little sound clips, accompanied by animations for your avatar, that are set off by text triggers. So when I type "/slapping," my fapping sissy fight animation kicks off. Good times are had by all. The great thing about these gestures is that you'll run across some random music clips and that is how the first song came to my attention. The Klaxons' "Gravity's Rainbow" is one of their most popular songs and invariably, this will lead to remixes. So when I heard the familiar "come with me/come with me" I knew that there was a hot remix out there that was begging to be sampled by the likes of Birkez. I found it almost instantly and now I present to you the Van She remix of "Gravity's Rainbow". It has that raw, synthesized shit that I love to hear in remixes. Enjoy that one and feel free to check out the Klaxons' studio material as well. True story: This remix was used in an ad for Wrigley's gum.

Another sound gesture I came across included the Kraftwerk 80's computer rock song, "Pocket Calculator." It has nice little whirs and beeps that make you wonder just how cool nerd rock could have been. I sense a renaissance coming.. lets kick it off here. COMPUTER ROCK nanananana.

Finally, I've got a song off of Say Hi to Your Mom's 2006 release, Impeccable Blahs. It's called "Blah Blah Blah" and it's got that groovy electronic beep-boo-bahhh-whirrrr that I'm feeling lately. Thanks to little Yuvi for requesting it the other night and making me looooove it. She rarely makes requests but when she does, they're pretty good. Pitchfork gave this album a pretty shite review, choosing to focus on the lyrics but you can't deny that Eric Elbogen (the only dude in the band) has a thing for catchy tunes. He may not be a lyrical master, but I don't mind wheezing "Iiiiiiii wanna drink your blo-oood." I was wondering if he had any good recent material and he happened to have a free MP3 available on his website, "Northwestern Girls" so I'm gonna post it for your lazy asses. I happen to like it but it's not in theme really. In fact, there's another mp3 he posted which IS in theme but I like this song better. Check it out anyway and feel free to check out his site here!

Phew. I feel like this was a cohesive post! Hope you guys diggggg it. I'm even posting fookin' videos! Oh hai and side note, my recent absence is due to some personal time off and other etcetera-like things. I am still out of commission for another 2 weeks or so and I want to tip my hat to my blogging partner, Erin, for doing a fantastic job posting essential music... I mean this shit is GOOD. Thanks for picking up my slack and making me look like a music noob in the process *wink wink* I hope to get back to a regular posting schedule soon! In the meantime, thanks for showing us love and thanks to Elbo.ws for featuring us on the front page for Oscar music!!! See ya soon.

Klaxons - Gravity's Rainbow (official video)

Say Hi to Your Mom - But She Beat my High Score (live) / Kind of a shite clip but I like the song.

Kraftwerk - Musique Non Stop (old school video) / zomg Computer Rock FTW!

Klaxons - Gravity's Rainbow (Van She Remix)

Say Hi to Your Mom - Blah Blah Blah

Kraftwerk - Pocket Calculator

Say Hi to Your Mom - Northwestern Girls

2.11.08 Song of teh Day: British Sea Power, Waving Flags AND Lucifer

2008-02-11T17:31:00.000-06:00

Ohhhh what fortune shines on you today, readers with good taste (of teh flavor). In celebration of our 4,000th visitor to My Music, it has a Flavor, I'm gonna post a bonus post with not one, but TWO British Sea Power songs. First let me kick things off right with the opening lines of "Waving Flags".

You are astronomical fans of alcohol
So welcome in
Are rising in the east and setting in the west
All waving flags

Rockin start! So I don't know what this song is really about and I'm not going to pretend I do. What I can tell you is more about the band, and why I'm posting this song today. First off, they're quite the darlings of the UK right now. They're enjoying some very well-deserved attention and are poised to release their latest album, "Do you like rock music" in the States tomorrow, February 12th. They remind me of Muse. There's this epic, soaring sound that you can hear in both tracks (mostly "Waving Flags") that even has a little twinge of Arcade Fire or even Polyphonic Spree. But lets not be the pretentious assholes we all know *I* am, let's just get to the music.

Listening to the lyrics, you can deduce "welcome ye from foreign lands, wave your flags, pull up a stool and have a beer with us." But here's my take on it. You can wave your flag and be who you are, you can wave your flag and surrender from the bullshit that people create, OR you can just forget the bullshit and have yourself a beer because it tastes good, and it feels good.

I'm gonna go with all three. We could all use a frosty mug o' beer because there's no reason to be so damned uptight. Things could be worse and for what it's worth, I've never been happier.

I'm also throwing in what I believe is the lead single (No Lucifer) off the new album as a bonus for showing us hit counter love. Now if I could just get you to talk about your feeeeeeelings (in our comment section).

Video (Waving Flags) and mp3s for YOU. Tanks.

British Sea Power - Waving Flags

British Sea Power - No Lucifer

2.3.08 Song Of Teh Day: Once (Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova), Falling Slowly

2008-02-03T00:57:00.000-06:00

No Country for Old Men. That's what we were supposed to see tonight. Thanks to a series of fuck-ups, we stayed in and came across this movie, Once. I had heard about it before... what had been noted most was the passion and emotion in the songs. This film.. this little Irish independent film... What took me so long to see it? And if you haven't, why haven't you see it yet?

So I turn to Erin and I say, "we're music bloggers... and we're watching this movie." Haha. Yes we are. A modern day musical but with more talking and much better music.

So why did I choose this song, "Falling Slowly"? I guess what really got to me was the way the song unfolded for the first time between Glen and Marketa. Sitting next to each other, she's never heard the song, he's sharing it with her for the first time, and watching them connect when they come together and make this incredible song—is intimate and so believable.

Recently I spoke to a friend about communicating through music... sharing songs that not only get in your head, but in your heart. To actually share a song like that with one person is daunting because if they hate it, well... that's just not very nice. You're putting yourself out there, kind of like I am now. But with many more people. Heh.

The point is, watch this scene from the film that I found on YouTube. Watch what I mean... if you've ever found yourself making music with another person, listening to your voices blend together and make a harmony... my god, there's no feeling like it. This is what it's like. Kind of like ... hmmm falling.

Then. Take this song I have offered you and listen.

Next. Buy the soundtrack.

And right after that. Watch this movie.

If there was ever a time when I was going to show my cards, this is it. Enjoy it. Might not see it again for a long time. Birkez.

Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova - Falling Slowly

2.1.08 Song of teh Day: Mute Math, Control

2008-02-01T02:14:00.000-06:00

Mute Math is a band that I was introduced to by my friend Travis, drummer for Everlasting Earle.

No question that Mute Math has found it's way onto my favorite playlists; They have this odd quality I can't quite put my finger on. It's happy, rocking music, right? But there's this ummm I don't know... jam band quality to them like you know they might randomly bust out a 15 minute rendition of whatever song... I don't know. It's late.

I'm also wondering privately if they're singing about Jesus. They have that kind of happy feel. Like... they play the jesus chords.

By jesus, you know I'm referring to Jesus Gonzalez, right? Big ups to Chewy, bro.

I'm going to bed. See you in the morning stranded Steinface traveler.

Mute Math - Control

1.29.08 Song of teh Day: Wolf Parade, I'll Believe in Anything

2008-01-29T01:38:00.000-06:00

"Give me your eyes, I need sunshine"

Wolf Parade makes this song. Dissonant, jarring, all around fucking cool.

"If I could take the fire out from the wire, I'd share a life and you'd share a life"

These are angry emos that have hearts.

"We've both been very brave/Walk around with both legs/Wait for the scary day/We both pull the tricks out of our sleeves"

You see here how they are defiant, but mostly fucking cool.

"I'd take you where nobody knows you, And nobody gives a damn"

Sounds good to me.

Enjoy Wolf Parade's "I'll Believe in Anything"

Wolf Parade - I'll Believe in Anything

1.23.08 Video of teh Day: John Mayer covers Justin Timberlake

2008-01-23T08:40:00.000-06:00

I was talking to a friend about cool shit last night and this is definitely up there. Remember how my first post ever was Justin Timberlake's, Lovestoned/I think that she knows? Yahhh. I really really like the second part of the song. In fact, I really wish that it was a song all on it's own and I'm not the only person that sees it this way.

So enter John Mayer. I know some people think he's kind of a douche but seriously, he's really cool and a really talented guy. I also appreciate that he stuck up for his ex-girlfriend when all of Texas wanted to tar and feather her. But I digress. He posted a video on YouTube of him doing I think that she knows on his '64 Fender. From the sidebar of the video,

Heard this in the car today, wanted to try it out... Collings I-35 through a Roland Space Echo pedal, Cornish NG-2 Fuzz and Fender '64 Vibroverb... Looped through a Boomerang pedal.

Sweet. Enjoy.. no song today. Because we've already posted "I'm sorry" and "Apologize" so yahhhh I'm gonna have to come up with something because I have a lot of apologizing to do...

(nerd mumfuzz scream)

1.22.08 Song of teh Day: Kid Sister, Control (TonyX's 1/2ALIVE edit)

2008-01-22T23:00:00.000-06:00

Perhaps you were thinking today, I need a song to shake my ass to? I wonder what Birkez has on tap today? Perhaps something to TAP that ass to?

Corny.

lol.

I have some hot flavor for you today and I give a nod to one of my mainstay music blogs, Missing Toof, cuz that's where I found this one (this one's posted on myspace too). As soon as I played this at one of my sets, it was pretty infectious... I don't know why cuz I was wearing protection but the crowd seemed to really like the song too.

See what I did there? Humor. I still haz it. GOD I MISS ERIN.

This remix is hot. The call and answer style of the chorus is my favorite. The song keeps a fast pace but has a cohesiveness to it that tastes like a good blend. Like Bailey's in my Whole Foods Fair Trade coffee.

Cool. Enjoy. I've got to feed my dog.

Kid Sister - Control (TonyX's 1/2ALIVE edit)

1.21.08 Song of teh Day: Massive Attack, Inertia Creeps

2008-01-21T17:05:00.000-06:00

Every music blogger has a time in their lives when they come across a song by accident and end up finding a gem.. a diamond in the rough. Even though I'm pretty sure everyone has heard of this song but me, I'm going to proclaim that I struck gold! Or perhaps the more simple, "this song is teh sex."

I was feeling in a sexy mood and was looking for sexy songs to go along with it. I google super well and so I put my ninja googling skillz to the test and I came across a list of the 69 sexiest songs. I went through this list and let me tell you, most of it was either obvious or just crappy. The songs had their moments but I was in search of dark and churning and fiery sexy. Not corny "I'm a Slave 4 U" sexy.

I recoginized Massive Attack instantly and knew, this song must be good. I gave it a listen and mai oh mai... I see what you did there, Massive Attack. I had a massive attack of the horndogs.

Anywai, I share this song with you. Maybe you recognize it or maybe you don't. Either way, perhaps hearing it fresh or for the first time, you'll feel that sexytime feeling we're all looking for. Birkez, teh sex.

Massive Attack - Inertia Creeps

1.18.08 Song of teh Day: When You Were Young, The Killers

2008-01-18T23:09:00.001-06:00

Mmmm tasty song of teh day. I know I promised more goodness and thought-provoking posts but the truth is my back hurts and I'm a big baby. However, today I bring you probably my most favorite Killers song ever, When You Were Young.

What's great about this song is that it brings that epic new wavey, 80'sish kind of rockin feeling to a song of the ohhh-ohhhhhz. All the things that the Killers do right come together to make this song a repeat offender in my playlists.

Speaking of playlits... I haven't even looked at my iPod in over a month. Does that make me a bad music blogger? I'm wondering if I've finally moved on from the iPod teat. I just prefer to listen to my music stationarily or via speaks.

Anyway, enjoy the song and if you comment, maybe I'll post some more and not feel like I'm dropping my words down an endless well.

The Killers - When You Were Young

1.15.08 Song of teh Day: I Get Around (Midnight Juggernauts Remix), Dragonette

2008-01-15T08:31:00.000-06:00

Hi flavoristas, my bad for being absent for so long! I have been a busy boy and not doing my duties (hahaha doooties) keeping up with the blog. Erin is off on the west coast and so I have to man the ship. Be sure to send her your love. I know I will.

So lets get on to the music shall we? Today's song of teh day is a happy fun timez song that you will certainly shake your ass to. Erin is the one that introduced me to this song and from the moment I heard it, I saw rainbows and leprechauns dancing... I mean, I don't think it was the mushrooms. This song is just that happy.

Midnight Juggernauts take this already fun timez song and mix it up to make it even MORE FUN. They are masters of the remix. I likes them.

So enjoy the music. I will have a non-half-assed post for you tomorrow.

xoxo Birkez.

Dragonette - I Get Around (Midnight Juggernauts Remix)

01.07.08 Song of teh Day: Imogen Heap, Hide and Seek

2008-01-07T19:20:00.000-06:00

“Where are we? What the hell is going on?”

The opening lines to Imogen Heap’s “Hide and Seek”: That’s pretty much the situation I’m finding more and more of my friends in. I’m not exempt from this myself, as the weight of being in this world as a teeny, tiny person gets to all of us, including me. What strikes me is not that I’m finding my friends in hard situations or struggling to get by, but the fact that I can’t stop thinking that everyone goes through these hard times. Everyone. I know that’s like stating the sky is blue but think about it; when you’re feeling at your worst, you just have to think... Yah I feel like shit but so does everyone else. The weight of what we know, being aware of so much, it’s bound to make you miserable. You think there are any emo grasshoppers? Shit.

It just so happens that I know quite a few people that are struggling all at once. And I wish I could fix everything that’s wrong, or not quite right... But I can’t. So I offer this song.

What I like, no love, about this song is that it’s completely a capella. Imogen’s voice is somewhat synthesized, but she harmonizes with herself to create the surreal, beautiful feeling that surrounds this song. It’s like a virtual I’m-wrapping-my-arms-around-you-and-not-letting-go kind of thing. The dissonant tones and minor chords that run through this song just twist your stomach up and make you want that aforementioned hug. It makes me feel better and alone all at once. I’m not sure that’s the best thing. But I know that I’m sending out all my love to the people that need it right now. I tell you, for being a silly jackass most of the time, I have a big heart. Let me show you it.

Imogen Heap - Hide and Seek

Second Life fix for new Macs

2008-01-06T13:29:00.000-06:00

Okay this is totally off topic for what we normally do but I feel like I can give a little back to the community by posting this fix. If you have a brand new intel mac and you're running Leopard, you're not running Second Life. I found this fix on a website which I regretfully cannot find anymore but they are the geniuses behind this fix and I cannot take any credit for it... I'm just passing it along. Not to mention it's the easiest fix EVER. Shame on Linden Lab for not doing something about it.

Here it is!

Step 1: Using a text editor like bbedit or TextMate or even Apple's TextEdit (make sure you do it in text mode not rtf) open this file:

~/Library/Application Support/Secondlife/user_settings/settings.xml

Step Two: At the bottom of the file, but before the tag, paste the following lines of text

> <UseOcclusion value="FALSE"/>

Step Three: Save the file.

That's it! :D

1.3.08 Song of teh Day: Belly, Feed the Tree

2008-01-02T05:34:00.000-06:00

Don't adjust your clocks, it really is 5:30 am and yes I'm writing this post at that very moment. But why Jon? you may ask yourself. Well, I'm asking myself the same question. By the time I was able to crawl into my unmade bed, it was far too late to fall asleep and for me to confidently get up in time for work. I am gonna try to ride it out until morning but I have a feeling I'm gonna fall asleep after all, wake up late and either call in sick or show up late and in both of these scenarios, this is very bad for my job security. You can see the quagmire I'm in. Why the fuck didn't I just go to sleep at 12:30 like I had planned to?

Anyway, today's song of teh day is an oldie of sorts from the 90s: Belly, Feed the Tree. I heard this song tonight and I remembered how much I liked this back in the day. What a great, great song. So I have no energy or desire to tell you more about it or research it properly. I just want to share a song that makes me feel good... because I know I need to feel good right now. I'm trying, it's not really working though.

Belly - Feed the Tree

12.28.07 Song of Teh Day: The National, Fake Empire

2007-12-28T08:21:00.000-06:00

I'm so sore right now. I feel like I was thrown down a flight of stairs by Jean Claude Van Damme. Oi. Don't ask. It's not that interesting.

I post to you first thing in the morning because I'm up sorta early and I have a wee bit of time before I hit the showers. That sounds... oddly... nevermind.

So today's song was going to be The National's "Squalor Victoria" because the drums rock so hard and it's quite a way to kick off the day. Thing is, I really really really really love "Fake Empire." This song starts with so much promise and sadness all at once, it puts me in this hopeful/emo-ful mood that makes me feel important and contradictory. Mostly it brings to mind the failed relationships of the past and how much better life is now. See? Weird.

I should also point out that this song has hot piano action, and lets be honest, who among you doesn't love hot piano action. I DO. I'm just being upfront with you, that's all.

Anyway, there's another Teh National! song that has something about I was 29 and I loved you or something and I can't remember which song that's from. Care to take a stab at it? IDK I need to get in teh showerrrrrrrr.

Also, "Mistaken for Strangers" is really my favorite song off this album. I can't help it. It's sofaking good. Whole album is pretty damn good actually. I hear that their previous release, "Alligator," is better. I must check that out asap.

The National - Fake Empire

12.24.07 Song of Teh Season: Coldplay, 2000 Miles

2007-12-24T12:40:00.000-06:00

Merryyyyyyy Christmas eve, friends. Birkez is back with a back-to-back post (oh ma shit!) SO I know yesterday was kind of a downer and I've been wanting to post this song for at least a week now so here I go. Funny thing about today's song, 2000 Miles, is that I came across this song 4 years ago during this very xmas season we're in the midst of right now. Coldplay's take on the Pretenders' original is quite nice and touching and all that. But the way I came across it makes me happy... allow me to tellz you teh story.

Back in the winter of 2003, Best Buy was giving out these circular, candy cane tins packed with a free promo cd. This CD included tracks from some pretty interesting artists and the fact that Coldplay was included (they were really popular at this moment,) made me at least pop the thing in and take a listen. I heard the song in the background and barely paid attention to it, only to throw it in a drawer and not see it for a good couple of years. When I finally did unearth it again, I knew it was time to throw it out... but not before I ripped a few songs off of it... 1 to be exact. That was this song, 2000 Miles. And I swearz to you, I didn't pay it no mind until just a few weeks ago when I was cleaning out my music library.

It's a touching song really... It makes me realize that the thing I don't like about xmas is that it makes me miss the people that are far away... the people that I most want to be around, especially at this time of year. I always find myself missing someone and this year is no different. So while I go off and daydream about what Lacey is up to, you enjoy this song and enjoy the christmas festivities tonight. Better timez ahead.

Coldplay - 2000 Miles

12.23.07 Song of Teh Season: Sufjan Stevens, That was the worst christmas ever!

2007-12-23T13:18:00.000-06:00

Here at MMIHAF, we loves us some Sufjan Stevens. In fact, that was one of the many things that kindled our music flame, Erin and I. So upon waking up this pre-pre-christmas mid afternoon, I find myself humming this song in the wake of a barrage of voicemails and missed calls... apparently we've got a Jerry Springer kinda thing goin on and uhhhh drama knows no season. So I thought to myself,

"You know, I could use more banjo right now."

What I'd like to drive home at this juncture is that it's nice to know that there are good people out there in the world that I get the privilege to call my friends, and even my family... Erin is one of those people and this xmas, I be thankful fuh hurrrr and all my good peoples that keep me sane.

I am a normal dude. In the most exceptional way. Normal.

Enjoy the song, it's quite pretty actually. And Merry Christmas or "few days off from work, score."

p.s. Thanks to Stein for covering my ass while I was away in LALA land. You are the hot sauce of my flavor. I'll try harder to post more regularly through the cold weather and hard timez. Kittehs be hongry. Whatever that means.

Sufjan Stevens - That was the worst christmas ever!

12.10.07 Song of teh Day: Mickey Avalon, Mr. Right

2007-12-10T23:49:00.000-06:00

Ahhh Mickey, you're ridiculous. If you're not familiar with Mickey Avalon, allow me to introduce him to you. He's this LA rocker, greasy lookin' guy that would run with Eminem's crowd except they'd probably beat his ass for wearing pink shirts and tight leather pants. The thing I like about Mickey Avalon is that his approach to rap is different, a breath of self-deprecating fresh air. He certainly sticks to the self-important, braggart kind of lyrics that you're used to. But he takes it a step further and is the first to poke fun at himself, as evidenced by the line from this particular song, "Now please take a moment to admire my attire/Fresh white valleys and pink tube socks/Tight gray Levi's and shirts with polka dots/Rolex watch but it's fake/Gold gazelle glasses and a platinum chain/But it's fake..."

Does that sound like a bad ass gangsta rapper to you?

The point is, he has hot beats and a nice melody that gets stuck in your head. He's got a lazy way of flowin his rhymes and he's certainly not trying to be something he's not. Sure, he may be from the streets but he's not pretending they're Compton... more like West Hollywood.

And while the themes of his songs appear to have mysogynistic themes, the truth is he's taking the "bitches and hos" themes and turning them on their head, so you really can't miss how ridiculous they are. No one is safe from his mockery, including himself, and I for one can appreciate the lack of bullshit and posturing. If you get a chance, check out "So rich, So pretty" as well. That would be my favorite song of his... but this new track is definitely getting play in my library these days.

Mickey Avalon - Mr. Right

12.9.07 Song of teh Weekend: Shiny Toy Guns - Starts with One (remix)

2007-12-09T03:44:00.000-06:00

~~Oiiiii it's mother of god late. I shall make this a quick post.~~ Yahhh not so much. I tried to make this post last night around 3 am and I just couldn't do it. My bed, new pillows and fresh sheets, called to me like a wanton lover that needs to be ... wait. I'm getting off track here. Music.

This song has dual flavors, as I'm posting the original version as well as a remix by Classixxx (formerly Young Americans) that I came across on teh myspace. I already am a big fan of Shiny Toy Guns as it is, but "Starts with One" is a song that had slipped under my radar. I think it's rare to find a song and a remix of that same song and love them equally which is how I feel about "Starts with One." The Classixx remix emphasizes Jeremy Dawson's desperate vocals (which he does quite well) and really drives home a bomb ass beat.

However, the studio version of this track stands so well on its own that I find my mind exploding into little pieces of excited little microscopic/kaleidoscopic boom boom dancers, sort of like those stupid zen-ish Comcast commercials. They really hit that electric-dramatic way of expressing emo feelings. Love, loss, pining.. all of it. This is why I love Shiny Toy Guns.

Okay but yes, my head still hurts so I'm gonna get on with the posting of the music. Also, I'd like to add that we're going back to the date format in the titles because it looks so much more organized, you know?

We also plan on posting videos to accompany the songs whenever we can because I'm in love with teh YouTube. I find that I have given YouTube this come-to-god status as I'll be discussing anything from the blaxsploitation flick, Cornbread, to performing an emergency trach with a bic pen and saying.. "I bet it's on YouTube." I swear these are excerpts from actual conversations. And the kicker is, there were trachs on YouTube but sadly, no Cornbread. I will find you again someday, Cornbread. RUNNNNNNN, keep on runnin.

Original music video

Shiny Toy Guns - Starts with One

Shiny Toy Guns - Starts with One (Classixx remix)

Ooooof, tough week

2007-12-07T01:05:00.000-06:00

HAI GUYZ. It's Birkez. So I'm supposed to be sleeping but I just couldn't let another day pass without a post. This has been a tough week for me and Stein. Lots of stuff going on but we still loves the blog and will be back in full force next week. I suspect I may even have a post for you tomorr... errr later today. So yah, holidays, family stuff, parties... it all gets in the way of a good blogger. A novice blogger even.

OHHHHH I forgot to mention something. I never really clarified why we call the songs of teh day "TEH" songs. See, I'm a lolcat. And Stein lurrrves the lolkittehs too. If you don't know what a lolcat is, get your ass to http://icanhascheezburger.com right now. I clarify this now and forever: Birkez and Stein are excellent spellerz. Kthx.

I also came across some dope videos. Vid 1 is the history of the lolcat and vid 2 is just a really dope video on web 2.0. It starts out slow but let it sink in, and watch as it melts/blows your mind. It's amazing what we do on teh internets, us people.

Good night. Birkez sleep nao.

Song of teh day: Master of None

2007-12-04T20:43:00.000-06:00

Okay this is a bit delayed and since Stein is probably posting today, Wednesday, I'm going back in time; to a simpler time when we were innocent and no one ever hurted us... Tuesday.

So today's song is fun because it's a winter wonderland outside and the name of the band is Beach House. Which sounds good right about now. I can picture it all... I'm laying on teh beach, with my dog on one side and my girl on the other, just between us a tub of iced down beer... and Stein is feeding me and my dog grapes. My girl is on her own. Wait. What? Did ... I ... just say that out loud?

I digress. This song, called "Master of None," is a lazy and melancholy tune that features the Baltimore-bred duo of Alex Scally and Victoria Legrand. When I say lazy, I mean lazy. The song strolls along at such a chill pace, you almost think they're being sarcastic. ~~The keyboards keep you interested and looking over your shoulder because just as you think you can start to relax, it's almost as if a perv is gonna jump out and goose you from out of nowhere.~~ The keyboards are creepy and stuff. Legrand's vocals have a haunting timbre that makes me dig this even more. I just can't get the word sarcastic out of my head. I'd say this song is perfect for bat mitzvahs and spending time with Stein. (Which I'll be doing NEXT WEEK... hanging out with Stein, that is. Not a bat mitzvah. Oh and happy Hanukkah!)

Birkez includes a video because it really sets the mood for this one. Not because it's flashy. No, not at all.

p.s. Comment damn you! We can't do this all alone. We've conveniently opened up anonymous comments so you can hurt our feelings and still be friends with us.

Beach House - Master of None

Song of teh weekend: A couple actually

2007-12-01T13:38:00.000-06:00

So with Stein blowing through town yesterday, you'd expect a heat wave with all the hot air she's blowing... not to be I guess. We have a baby blizzard going on outside. Thanks alot you blowhard.

So I didn't post on Thursday and in the interest of not advocating time travel, I thought I'd post a song of teh weekend! Actually, a few. I've been meaning to put these up for some time, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it. It's a gargantuan task posting 3 songs and videos OMFGGGGGGG. I want to be funny and clever for you, I swear... I'm just so engrossed in redesigning the blog because it's incredibly ugly and for me to call myself a graphic and web designer... this is truly a disgrace. Keep an eye out for that business.

So if you've been to any of my sets in the past couple of weeks, you know that I'm the first to throw out some Kelly, betch. Kelly. How do I explain Kelly? I don't think there are any words. So instead I will post my 3 favorite Kelly songs, (I think there are 4 in total so that's a pretty good batting average.) I give you videos and tracks to download. Holy shet! Listen betches. AND be sure to check out Liam Kyle Sullivan's youtube channel as well as his website. He's a funny bastard, that one.

Kelly - Shoes

Kelly - Let me borrow that top

Kelly - Txt msg breakup

Song of teh day: Flashing Lights

2007-11-27T00:00:00.000-06:00

So I'm well overdue for a post after the madness that was thanksgiving weekend. Dear god it was nice to have 4 days off of work though. Fuck the turkey.

My pick for today is Kanye West's "Flashing Lights." I know, I know... it's Kanye and he hasn't given himself the best publicity lately. But at least he can poke fun at himself as evidenced by the line "like Katrina with no FEMA." But I must be honest, this song is a jam. After having "Stronger" shoved down our throats ad nauseum, it's with great caution that I'm getting back on the Kanye train. Yes, Stronger was a jam but you know after a while you just get pissed off that he ruined a perfectly good Daft Punk track for you.

Here's what's great about this track. The constant pulse of the bass and the retro, staccato synth on top of it just makes you want to lean back and enjoy it. I bet this would be a good driving song, now that I think about it. Something tells me that rolling down the street in my '00 Jetta would ruin it though. In any case, Birkez approves this jam.

*Side note. I am terribly annoyed by the incongruity of the lyrics "I'm just saying hey Mona Lisa/Come home you know you can't roam without Caesar" UMMMM wrong time period.

Kanye West (feat. Dwele) - Flashing Lights

Song of teh day: My love for you is real

2007-11-22T05:19:00.000-06:00

It's the wee hours of thanksgiving morning and I can't find a way to sleep. What it is that keeps me up till all hours of the morning I guess only I really know but this song is good company until I can find a way to close my eyes and fall into an easy place.

In honor of giving thanks, I give thanks for one particular person in my life that has amazed me with her patience and her understanding, as well as her seemingly boundless kind, kind heart. There's so much good in her, I don't know how I got so lucky. I thought of her when this song came across my playlist. You know who you are.

Ryan Adams. Perennial favorite of teh Birkez. His words cut deep and he has a knack for delivering a moving melody that sticks with you long after the song has ended. "My love for you is real" is a track off the recently released "Follow the Lights" EP. It gets back to the Ryan Adams that I like. It has the country flavor, yet it doesn't hit you over the head with a banjo, much like the "& the Cardinals" stuff does. At least for me, anyway. He takes simple words and gives them more meaning, as if they were personal to you, with the swell of the music and the sad timbre that the song takes on. It's an excellent song and I was lucky enough to come across a live version of it. Enjoy the track and if you dig, I promise you'll like the whole EP (which includes a nice cover of "Down in a Hole"). You can pick it up on the internets or at a real live store. Git and happy turkey day.

Ryan Adams - My Love for You is Real (Live)

Remind me how great this song is

2007-11-19T03:51:00.000-06:00

First off, I want to welcome Joel to the blog. He'll be adding his own twist to the blog on the weekends when me and Stein are recovering from our weeklong booze binge. We like to keep it sober on the weekends, you know? When it really matters. We decided that the blog was still in it's infancy and we weren't quite ready to open it up to new authors. However, this is something we're looking forward to in the future when "teh flavor" hits puberty and is allowed to date.

As for kicking off a short week, I'm bringing some Royksopp your way. This song is best known for being featured in one of the cavemen ads for Geico. It was a different mix... as I'm posting "Someone else's radio mix" but trust me, it's better. What makes this one a standout for me is the fact that the lead vocals are so mellow and smooth with an infectious synth track in the background that keeps the song upbeat but still manages to maintain the chill feeling. It has definitely been one of my favorites for a few months now.

Perhaps more importantly, the video is a sheer work of art, using customized information graphics throughout the vid. The amount of work and creativity that went into this astounds me. Not to mention, it calls out the simplicity and brilliance required to make an information graphic do it's job. Clear. Clean. To the point. Enjoy the vid and the short week!

Royksopp - Remind me (Someone else's radio mix)

Back to the show

2007-11-08T21:28:00.000-06:00

Soooooo yah. Music. Let me show you it. New song, or rather a new take on an older song from Jay-z's much heralded exit from the game, The Black Album. I bought this album ready to appreciate Jay-z's swan song and he didn't disappoint. One of the tracks from this album, Allure, certainly wasn't one of my favorites however.

Enter Ratatat. I love these silly bastards. They bring the instrumental grooves so right. It's mellow, it's harmonic, it's chill... kinda like smoking a big fatty and leaning back on your couch with a freshly delivered pizza and your favorite reruns of Family Guy. Put these two together and suddenly you have a fresh look at an old song.

Ratatat just released their second mixtape, Remixes Vol. 2, giving other artists' songs the Ratatat flavor. "Allure" is far and away the most cohesive track on the album, really highlighting Jay-z's flow with vintage Ratatat grooves.

The mixtape is available for download for FREE here so go on and git it. In the meantime, check out this track.

Jay-z - Allure (Ratatat remix)

A softer, sensitiver Birkez

2007-11-07T22:21:00.000-06:00

A few things I wanted to introduce in today's post of teh day now that my back has unlocked itself from it's prior state of petrification this morning. For one, we've decided to change up the title format for several reasons, one of them being that it's stupid long, not to mention redundant. I take full credit for that one. The stupid idea, that is.

Another thing I wanted to do was to properly introduce myself and the blog. The thing is, it really stems from me and Stein geeking out over music. We have very similar tastes and we get along famously, so what better than to share it for all the world to see and hear? The thing is, we love to rib each other and at times our humor can be a little over the top. (See the last few posts if you don't know what I'm talking about.) So I want to state for the record that I'm not a sexist pig, and Stein is brilliant and one of my favorite ladies. We just like to laugh. And we hope you can find a little humor along the way.

That being said, today's song of the day is something completely different and unexpected. At least I think so. I'm going through lots of changes in my personal life and I'm getting myself in a better state of mind and a happier place. So I wanted to post this song to reflect that not only to the casual reader but to the people that are there for me right now. The people that are indispensible and irreplaceable.

I came across it one day while perusing cover songs on YouTube. I swear, I love watching regular people do their own renditions of other artists songs. Sometimes it can be really bad, mediocre... or even spectacular. This youngish girl did a cover of John Mayer's "In Repair" and while I'd never heard the song before, I identified with it immediately. I've said in the past that for me to admit that I like and respect John Mayer seems out of character for me. But the dude has feelings. Lots. He puts them into words well. And while sometimes it can be overly syrupy, (See: "Your body is a wonderland" or the song of his I loathe the most, "No Such Thing") he knows the angst of 30 year olds. This comes from his latest album, Continuum, and has loads of really touching songs (for lack of a better word.) I'm not actually very fond of the first single, "Waiting on the World to Change" because it's so corny, but songs like "Stop this Train" and "Heart of Life" sure know how to tug those heart strings. Feel free to download a few songs from iTunes, yo. So without further ado, Sensitive and Sweet Birkez gives you, "In Repair."

John Mayer - In Repair

11.6.07 Song Of Teh Day: The Coathangers, Don't Touch My Shit

2007-11-06T00:50:00.000-06:00

I feel what Stein is bringing. I mean, it's so cool that she can be open about her girl-on-girl blogging. I wish she'd be more forthcoming about WHO it is she's munching carpet with... or at least fantasizing about. But let's be honest, it's not my place to reveal her obsession with Britney Spears. I guess I'll keep my promise to her and not post "Gimme More" since it's her SAWNG (Stein waves her arms in the air and hell no she don't care). But I digress. I need to get to bed and get on with my nightly ritual of choking the kitty (hahah Draco) to "Crazy Bitch" so lets talk about today's song of teh day.

The Coathangers are ANGRY chicks. I don't think they're lesbians because they talk about their boyfriend and if you look at him she'll kick you in the twat. But they're possessive and pissed off about their shit. The song is called "Don't Touch My Shit." I mean, it's such a double standard though. Don't touch her papers but she'll eat your fucking peanut butter? This song has a great vertigo-like melody line that makes me love angry bitches from a distance. Without further ado, leave my shit alone.

The Coathangers - Don't Touch My Shit

11.1.07 Song of teh Day: Mark Ronson feat. Lily Allen, Oh My God

2007-11-01T12:18:00.000-05:00

Today's song of teh day comes via Britain. The thing about this Mark Ronson guy is that he really did make his mark doing cover songs so this one is no different, as he and Allen cover the Kaiser Chefs original. The thing that makes this song cool enough to have "teh flavor" is the way that Lily Allen's voice takes you up and down through the verses, winding her way through the notes. It makes me dizzy and horny for Lily Allen all at once and this even overpowers my intense hatred of... her haircut. Yes, I noticed and uh-huh, DO NOT WANT. Regardless, I don't think Lily minds that much. Listen away. He's got some other nahce tracks you can check out at your local record store or you know, iTunes.

Mark Ronson feat. Lily Allen - Oh My God

10.31.07 Song of teh Day: DJ Champion, No Heaven

2007-10-31T02:42:00.000-05:00

As we work our way back to the past, I must giveth you a song of the day for halloween. I thought about how to top Stein and her dirty fucking mouth. But then I realised that I need sleep and I just don't care. This song came to me via my friend Kets who played this song in honor of halloween? You know that scene from 30 Days of Night when the girl is about to get all bit by a vampire and she says "OH GOD" and the vampire says "NO GOD" and he latin. So this song reminds me of it because it's called "No Heaven." So it's like that but sorta cuz you know how god live in heaven. YAH BITCHES I DIDN'T CAPITALIZE GOD. So I would love to top Stein but then I'd have to spew a slew of curses and i can't. The children. I think of them. Bitches, Birkez gives you DJ Champion.

DJ Champion - No Heaven

10.30.07 Song of teh Day: Louis XIV, Finding Out True Love is Blind

2007-10-30T03:09:00.000-05:00

You remember when I posted way back when and then Stein was all OH HAI IMMA POST SOME NAUGHTY SHIT. Guess what? I have naughty shit for you. ANd I'm not posting lesbionic weepy songs either. I post the dirty songs, yet somehow, I post the more sanitized, civilized, anesthetized, Jessie-Jackson-is-ized situations in this blogging. I would tell you more but I have to sleep. I give you dirty songs about fucking bitches. Any bitches. Because true love is really not about you. It's about me. Getting laid. Or in this case, Louis XIV. Yes. Birkez.

Louis XIV - Finding Out True Love is Blind

10.22.07 Song of teh Day: Louis XIV, Pledge of Allegiance

2007-10-22T23:09:00.000-05:00

Louis XIV. How I love thee. I can't stop listening to these guys lately. This song was requested at one of my sets a while back by a cute little redhead. I had never heard of these guys before but there's something about the beats and the hard guitars and vocals that just screams rawkus, dirty, drunk fucking hot music. I love it. It has a definite British flavor, but these guys hail from San Diego. Jason Hill's vocals are brash and arrogant and have a touch of Iggy Pop, in my esteemed opinion. Regardless, this is on repeat on my iPod and I can't get enough of these dirty sons of bitches. I'll be sure to post more of them soon. Birkez gives you the hot flavors too, cuz well he latin.

Louis XIV - Pledge of Allegiance

10.17.07 Song of teh Day: Old Crow Medicine Show, Wagon Wheel

2007-10-17T22:41:00.000-05:00

Today's song of the day comes from a band called Old Crow Medicine Show. I hadn't really heard of them before but apparently they got some airplay on NPR. What's more important is that it brings the old-timey goodness that makes me wanna pop open a PBR and make out with my old lady. I love the way he sings "heeeey mama rock me."

I know some ladies don't like being called mama but you must consider there's a big difference between momma and mama. Think hot little mama. Not momma, let me suck on your teat. I digress. Enjoy the country-fied lovin. Birkez loves you.

Old Crow Medicine Show - Wagon Wheel

10.16.07 Song of teh Day: Stars, Take me to the Riot

2007-10-16T18:02:00.000-05:00

New stuff from Stars. I have "Set yourself on Fire" from last year.. though it's been released several times and I think even in a remix form. But in any case, I was over it and very much looking forward to new stuff. I was really pumped to hear the first single, "Take me to the Riot" because it's still vintage Stars but it takes on a new energy that has subtle touches of the Cure. There's a lot of that going around these days. The male and female vocals blend together nahce and leave you feeling good about what you just listened to. Sorta like a warm belly full of hot tea. Check it.

Stars - Take me to the Riot

10.12.07 Song of teh Day: Justin Timberlake, Lovestoned

2007-10-12T21:24:00.000-05:00

Alright so I've been promising this blog for at least 2 weeks now so here it is. First of all let me kick it off by explaining what's up here. My music, it has a flavor. And me and Stein are gonna share it with you. Every day we'll post a new Song of teh Day and you can give it a listen and be enlightened with some fresh new music. The genres will probably run the gamut, as you'll see with this first post, but the requirement is that they're all good.

So without further ado, here's the first song of teh day.

Justin Timberlake broke out of his boy band mold and started making some interesting music. Yes he's got that pop flavor, but he's got some bad ass producers behind him and let's not bullshit each other—the dude has talent. So his latest single, I think... I don't listen to the radio... "Lovestoned/I think she knows" is something like 2 songs in one. It's like he couldn't decide between beatboxing the whole thing and giving it a somber, rock edge. So he did both. I'll be honest, I get through the first 5 minutes just so I can hear the last two. So don't be put off by the upbeatedness of it. The end is well worth it. Give it a spin, his FutureSex/Lovesounds album grows on you, kind of like an infection you secretly enjoy having because it gets you out of work.

Justin Timberlake - Lovestoned/I think she knows