I know I can’t be the only one who was devastated when The Civil Wars announced they were taking a break/breaking up/confused. Exciting news, folks: they’ve released a new single. And…I love it! So, so good.
Apparently the breakup thing didn’t go so well because they’re releasing a new album on August 6. Or maybe it did and it has produced enough inspiration for more moody music. Either way, I say “hooray!”
Hi there, friends! I’m so excited that The Voice is back becuase it gives me something to look forward to on Monday nights until The Bachelorette begins in a few months. Do you watch? I’m always super impressed with the talent and hearing some of the triumphant stories of overcoming obstacles to pursue dreams. I usually end up downloading a bunch of songs on iTunes after the show, and this past Monday I was also pleasantly pleased with the performance the four coaches did to kick off the show, including the two newbies: Shakira and Usher. I do miss Cee-Lo (and his animals), though; he’s such a character!
Here are some of my favorite performances from the first week of blind auditions:
The one that gave me chills (for all the 90’s kids!):
The most surprising (this guy totally reminds me of Ashton Kutcher in this performance):
The no-brainer:
The most entertaining (their duo name is “Midas Whale” which they say came about when one asked the other if he wanted to start a duo and his reply was “might as well…” ha!):
Who are your favorites so far? What do you think of the new coaches?
You may recognize a few Citizen Cope songs from radio, tv and commercials. Mumbles and I saw one of his shows at House of Blues Anaheim a few years ago and it was incredible — he has super passionate fans that love his music and he sounds amazing live. Here are some of my favorite songs:
Son’s Gonna Rise
Bullet and a Target
Sideways
If There’s Love
Let the Drummer Kick
One of my favorite memories as a kid is from the time my parents forced me to play the piano in Nordstrom at the Santa Anita Mall. Do you remember when Nordstrom used to have a pianist playing in store? Really classed the joint up, don’t you think? (this LA Times “Culture Monster” article from 2011 notes the sad sayonara to Nordstrom’s in-store piano playing. Boo.)
Well, while Piano Man was on a break, my mom told me to sit down and play.
“But mooooom! I’m not even good!” I protested.
I’m sure my mom gave me a “I’m not spending a fortune on piano lessons (and in this here store) for nothing!” sort of glare and I ended up playing a song, though I can’t remember which one. Maybe the Pink Panther theme song — that was always my favorite. Ha! Just kidding. I’m sure my mom made me perform something a bit more sophisticated than that. My brother’s favorite tune to play was the Beverly Hills Cop theme song. That wouldn’t have flown with her, either, I’m sure.
I miss the Nordstrom piano and definitely think they should bring it back. You can listen to pre-recorded radio music any ol’ time!
Here are some of my favorites for cloudy days and general crankiness…
Do you have a favorite song you listen to when your mood is a little darker than usual?
Stick Girl JAM 