tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79804986896093239642024-03-14T04:01:10.031-04:00Round LettersA cyclical destination for views, reviews, and funtimes.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-61472398721726276602009-05-23T12:15:00.004-04:002009-11-18T08:58:21.004-05:00Round Letters is movingHi guys,<br /><br />I've decided to move RoundLetters over to an easier blogging system, WordPress.<br /><br />From now on, for all of your music updates and trademark Jess storytelling, please visit<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://roundletters.wordpress.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:times new roman;" >roundletters.wordpress.com</span></a><br /></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://roundletters.wordpress.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:times new roman;" >roundletters.wordpress.com</span></a><br /></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://roundletters.wordpress.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:times new roman;" >roundletters.wordpress.com</span></a><br /></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://roundletters.wordpress.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:times new roman;" >roundletters.wordpress.com</span></a><br /></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://roundletters.wordpress.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:times new roman;" >roundletters.wordpress.com</span></a><br /><br /></span></div><br />I'm updating more often there, with concert listings, news, reviews and more! Check it out!!!<br /><br />Thanks for following me on Blogspot, I hope you can do the same for me over at WordPress, please add me to your RSS Feeds!!Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-60059033204631876852009-04-10T09:24:00.007-04:002009-11-18T08:57:18.400-05:00Abbey Road: Don't Pass Me By...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Lu_PW0mI/AAAAAAAAANU/lyACwoUCg5U/s1600-h/crosswalk-abbey-road.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Lu_PW0mI/AAAAAAAAANU/lyACwoUCg5U/s400/crosswalk-abbey-road.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323056555197125218" border="0" /></a><br />On Tuesday, my childhood best friend Ashleigh who's also on exchange in London (deep breath) and I went to go visit Abbey Road.<br /><br />It was a beautiful day, the sky was so ridiculously blue, just like when I was in Gothenburg, Sweden, not even a week before. In this part of Westminster, the buildings give off a warm glow in the sunshine. Flowers were in bloom, everyone had their sunglasses in tow and I was walking with a jump of excitement in my step. I was finally going to such an iconic place in the history in music.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PGldGgSI/AAAAAAAAAOc/Zbo5ysJZT6c/s1600-h/abbeyroad+034.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PGldGgSI/AAAAAAAAAOc/Zbo5ysJZT6c/s200/abbeyroad+034.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323060259127197986" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9OgNKkwBI/AAAAAAAAANc/ty2x9sqnIjg/s1600-h/abbeyroad+001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9OgNKkwBI/AAAAAAAAANc/ty2x9sqnIjg/s200/abbeyroad+001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323059599772008466" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9OgSGqYSI/AAAAAAAAANk/aZAsZqrz8CA/s1600-h/abbeyroad+004.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9OgSGqYSI/AAAAAAAAANk/aZAsZqrz8CA/s200/abbeyroad+004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323059601097777442" border="0" /></a>Abbey Road -- the studios -- have housed acts (besides the Beatles) such as Radiohead, Green Day, U2, The Killers, Morrissey, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Sigur Ros, and a handful of acts I never assumed deserved to record there, but oh well.<br /><br />But really, this place is ONLY about the Beatles. It is not acknowledged anywhere else on their outdoor premises of any other musical entity. The studios painted over their front gate white so over the years, devoted fans and tourists could scrawl their "Imagine Peace" and "All You Need is Love" mementos all over. There's a bus stop right in front of the studios, and everyone in the bus always looks amused or confused.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9OgwYiVUI/AAAAAAAAANs/-c0cDcfncfQ/s1600-h/abbeyroad+007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9OgwYiVUI/AAAAAAAAANs/-c0cDcfncfQ/s200/abbeyroad+007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323059609225811266" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Og6v1LUI/AAAAAAAAAN0/T6JChHRZl4s/s1600-h/abbeyroad+011.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Og6v1LUI/AAAAAAAAAN0/T6JChHRZl4s/s200/abbeyroad+011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323059612007869762" border="0" /></a><br />After gazing at the wall for a while, Ashleigh and I found a spot on the side of the gate to write our thoughts. I chose to write the song title, "Don't Pass Me By" along with "...09" and "Jess + Ashleigh". Ashleigh then signed her name above it along with "Buffalo, NY" in a heart. Taking after her, I decided to write "Jessica L. 09 CANAM" down the side. Fully represented.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9OhHM8q7I/AAAAAAAAAN8/K4NxDFzeiBY/s1600-h/abbeyroad+023.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9OhHM8q7I/AAAAAAAAAN8/K4NxDFzeiBY/s200/abbeyroad+023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323059615351221170" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PF0IFkII/AAAAAAAAAOE/l0Umlm5RmjA/s1600-h/abbeyroad+024.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PF0IFkII/AAAAAAAAAOE/l0Umlm5RmjA/s200/abbeyroad+024.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323060245885718658" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PGJD5BpI/AAAAAAAAAOM/vh2mh8vX2JY/s1600-h/abbeyroad+030.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PGJD5BpI/AAAAAAAAAOM/vh2mh8vX2JY/s200/abbeyroad+030.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323060251505264274" border="0" /></a><br />Then we saw the timid other tourists standing on separate sides of the intersection, looking nervous. After all, it's quite the busy intersection, mainly filled with taxis looking grumpy. But they have to stop for anyone, even if they're just standing there looking like they want to cross it. But we got our turn.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PG2XgkQI/AAAAAAAAAOk/2tTMlEMYGzk/s1600-h/abbeyroad+041.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PG2XgkQI/AAAAAAAAAOk/2tTMlEMYGzk/s200/abbeyroad+041.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323060263667142914" border="0" /></a><br />Visiting Abbey Road was a huge part of my life, and one of the greatest moments of being in London. I'm moving back home to the States/Canada in less than two weeks, and I'm glad I've been able to check that off my life list. Like any child growing up in the 80s/90s my dad blasted the Beatles as early as I could remember. I remember sitting in the car on the way to Long Island or somewhere, going over a bridge, my brother singing Yellow Submarine when he was a little tot. It wasn't until a couple of years ago I was fully able to appreciate the band on my own, but since then it's grown into a huge, delightful history lesson, and Abbey Road was a field trip of creativity and daydreams.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PGW9NAWI/AAAAAAAAAOU/hjeqYNSWe74/s1600-h/abbeyroad+032.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9PGW9NAWI/AAAAAAAAAOU/hjeqYNSWe74/s200/abbeyroad+032.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323060255235309922" border="0" /></a><br />Going home, I saw the moon, and realized I could document it for you, readers at home, the moon a la the other side of the world.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Ppww8UBI/AAAAAAAAAOs/ekAAbmd0HC0/s1600-h/abbeyroad+051.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Ppww8UBI/AAAAAAAAAOs/ekAAbmd0HC0/s320/abbeyroad+051.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323060863458627602" border="0" /></a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-39746801871442395322009-04-10T08:43:00.008-04:002009-04-10T09:18:50.747-04:00Behind the Scenes (sort of) with ONCEI was in Dublin this past weekend with a group of my friends. While we had loads of fun in a pub named Gogarty's, going out for meals, walking around sight-seeing and going to the Guinness Storehouse, the one thing that was playing through my head the entire weekend was the soundtrack to <a href="http://www.foxsearchlight.com/once/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Once</span></a>.<br /><br />I hadn't watched the movie in a long time, but I knew it took place in Dublin and that it happened around where I was walking to and fro three times every day from the hotel to town and back. I kept playing the situation: guy is busking, girl comes up to him, they fall into a confused love, and they make beautiful music.<br /><br />Dublin is wonderful for music. There's a busker every five steps, in all sorts of genres. Whether it's traditional irish, rockabilly, that heartfelt guitar tune, or a full out orchestra. There's plenty of record stores there too, but I didn't get a chance to go see them. I did get to go see a traditional irish music pub crawl though.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9GDX86U1I/AAAAAAAAANM/GSdq_6Zpigs/s1600-h/dublin+226.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9GDX86U1I/AAAAAAAAANM/GSdq_6Zpigs/s200/dublin+226.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323050308358263634" border="0" /></a>Here are some buskers I saw:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BKkPZdaI/AAAAAAAAALM/68YqOvl95h8/s1600-h/dublin+089.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BKkPZdaI/AAAAAAAAALM/68YqOvl95h8/s200/dublin+089.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323044934357972386" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BK-4xobI/AAAAAAAAALU/TqJjAz848O4/s1600-h/dublin+091.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BK-4xobI/AAAAAAAAALU/TqJjAz848O4/s200/dublin+091.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323044941510844850" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BLCUP4ZI/AAAAAAAAALc/cyhhUDUTDMQ/s1600-h/dublin+185.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BLCUP4ZI/AAAAAAAAALc/cyhhUDUTDMQ/s200/dublin+185.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323044942431379858" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BLWjqvXI/AAAAAAAAALk/4ANKJTRt1UA/s1600-h/dublin+639.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BLWjqvXI/AAAAAAAAALk/4ANKJTRt1UA/s200/dublin+639.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323044947864763762" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BLditAkI/AAAAAAAAALs/kOi5v3yoiy0/s1600-h/dublin+638.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9BLditAkI/AAAAAAAAALs/kOi5v3yoiy0/s200/dublin+638.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323044949739766338" border="0" /></a>I thought I missed out on some joke -- everyone and their mother seemed to be outside busking. But it was beautiful to see. It really livens up a part of a city that otherwise is merely focused on shopping. Busking really has been a staple of my UK life.<br /><br />Anyways, here's what I have to show you about ONCE. Click any photo to enlarge.<br /><br />The movie starts out with Glen Hansard "Guy" playing his guitar on Grafton Street at night.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9C_4gvxgI/AAAAAAAAAL0/kZqpIkN7YIk/s1600-h/ss.bmp"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 100px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9C_4gvxgI/AAAAAAAAAL0/kZqpIkN7YIk/s200/ss.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323046949844141570" border="0" /></a><br />Here, Guy is chasing after a lowly theif who ran off with his guitar case of change. They just ran into St. Stephen's Green, a lovely little park at the top of Grafton Street that winds its way into ponds full of birds, blooming flowers, fountains, and pathways.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9DAMoNTzI/AAAAAAAAAME/P783Hv3wsyc/s1600-h/ss3.bmp"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 110px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9DAMoNTzI/AAAAAAAAAME/P783Hv3wsyc/s200/ss3.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323046955244146482" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Eo_mBh9I/AAAAAAAAAM0/xqeu4_HBm0c/s1600-h/dublin+184.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Eo_mBh9I/AAAAAAAAAM0/xqeu4_HBm0c/s200/dublin+184.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323048755631589330" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Eo6b_S9I/AAAAAAAAAM8/3IBTA6yFYS4/s1600-h/dublin+212.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9Eo6b_S9I/AAAAAAAAAM8/3IBTA6yFYS4/s200/dublin+212.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323048754247322578" border="0" /></a><br />As were the last two photos, this next photo is mine; of where Glen chased the man through the HMV.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9En9t9vcI/AAAAAAAAAMc/cuPLA7-suFw/s1600-h/dublin+084.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9En9t9vcI/AAAAAAAAAMc/cuPLA7-suFw/s200/dublin+084.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323048737948155330" border="0" /></a>Here, Guy is busking to a crowd on Grafton Street, similar to the photos I showed above of other buskers.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9DAFMOmxI/AAAAAAAAAL8/71C-2pUm0DM/s1600-h/ss2.bmp"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 108px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9DAFMOmxI/AAAAAAAAAL8/71C-2pUm0DM/s200/ss2.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323046953247742738" border="0" /></a>Guy is busking and the Hare Krishnas come past him with their own music. Funny story... when I was in Dublin, at one point I was waiting to cross a street towards my hotel and one one side of the corner there was a big guy dressed up as a leprachaun, on another side there was a line of people linked together shouting through a megaphone at a fur store, and then coming through the middle were the Hare Krishna's all jolly, skipping, banging their tambourines to "harreee krishnaa haaaareee krishna!" It was maybe the most stand out moment of the weekend I have.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9DASXXmoI/AAAAAAAAAMM/0PTTK6KhtwI/s1600-h/ss4.bmp"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 110px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9DASXXmoI/AAAAAAAAAMM/0PTTK6KhtwI/s200/ss4.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323046956784130690" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9EobrZC6I/AAAAAAAAAMk/bXWYDOvnJbQ/s1600-h/dublin+100.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9EobrZC6I/AAAAAAAAAMk/bXWYDOvnJbQ/s200/dublin+100.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323048745990425506" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9EosSuNdI/AAAAAAAAAMs/YBQHLn0vI8I/s1600-h/dublin+182.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9EosSuNdI/AAAAAAAAAMs/YBQHLn0vI8I/s200/dublin+182.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323048750450357714" border="0" /></a><br />And here, Guy and Girl walk off into Grafton Street, happy to be with the other.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9FmX82SPI/AAAAAAAAANE/kET84BOdVaI/s1600-h/ss5.bmp"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 111px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/Sd9FmX82SPI/AAAAAAAAANE/kET84BOdVaI/s200/ss5.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323049810141792498" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">You must have fallen from the sky</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">You must have come here in the pouring rain</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">You took so many through the light</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">And now you're on your own.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: left;">If you're an avid reader of the blog, you'll remember my post from when I went to go see Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova play as the Swell Season, the band that formed from the movie, back in the fall. You can see my videos and read my review <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/09/live-swell-season-lovelovelove.html">here</a>.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></div></div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-62125852638519207862009-03-18T17:16:00.004-04:002009-03-18T17:43:22.498-04:00RSS Reads: As of March 19I haven't updated your musical news in about a month or so now, so here's an ultimate update. Read on.<br /><br />In celebrating the new release of <span style="font-style: italic;">Hazards of Love</span> by the Decemberists, here are <a href="http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2009/03/psycho-killers-the-decemberists-death-count.html">two</a> <a href="http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2009/03/the-decemberists-the-hazards-of-love.html">awesome </a>write ups of the rock opus. Charts, haikus, and all. Talk about album review. (Paste)<br /><br />Broken Social Scene are keeping themselves in the limelight by having a <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/67505/broken-social-scene-book-coming">book</a> written about them and also managing to <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/67182/bss-members-are-wedding-singers-in-the-time-travelers-wife">sing</a> in a movie. (Chart)<br /><br />However, Nashville band Kings of Leon are taking their publicity to a new level, by starting a complete <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/daily-gossip/42926">uproar</a> backstage at the BRIT Awards. (NME)<br /><br />But Lily Allen always takes the cake. They freak out when she <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/nme/43466">pukes</a> (NME) and they absorb her <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2009/02/musings_lily_allen_me_myself_a_1.html?ft=1&f=15709577">lyrics</a> to find out the obvious, especially when it's the name of the album (NPR).<br /><br />Snoop Dogg is picking up on it as well. He recently <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/snoop-dogg/43135">converted</a> to Islam (NME) but probably rebuked it after trying to <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2009/02/18/paris-hilton-raps-with-snoop-dogg-proves-she-s-the-worst-rapper-of-all-time.aspx">rap</a> with Paris Hilton. (National Post)<br /><br />The more I'm writing this, the more I'm realizing how attention-grabbing each of these stories are made to be. And with that, I present to you Iggy Pop's <a href="http://pitchfork.com/news/34725-iggy-pop-preps-jazz-album-about-french-literature/">jazz</a> album. (Pitchfork)<br /><br />Wait, wait! It gets better. Noel Gallagher had won the Best Blog at the Shockwaves NME Awards a few weeks ago, but <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/oasis/43104">admitted</a> he has 'never' used a computer. Hmm... (NME)<br /><br />I'm really getting ahead of myself now. Pete Wentz is afraid someone's <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/66768/pete-wentz-fears-murder">trying</a> to kill him. Really? I could say so much about this, but I'll spare you. (Chart)<br /><br />Actress turned rockstar Juliette Lewis has spoken out about <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/the-mars-volta/43160">ditching</a> her band The Licks because it just didn't work anymore. She now is backed by The New Romantiques. Classy. (NME)<br /><br />Oh, here's another... Ryan Gosling has <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/65331/ryan-gosling-launches-music-career">turned</a> to music, maybe from being so confused about Rachel (forget her! p.s. someday i WILL see you on the streets of T.O.) and recorded quite a spooky video with a bunch of kids -yikes- named "In The Room Where You Sleep". It really says so much. (Chart)<br /><br />Jack White has a <a href="http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2009/03/jack-white-unveils-new-band-the-dead-weather.html">new</a> band. I liked this mainly for the opening line: "You first have to wonder just how many side projects one musician needs." (Paste)<br /><br />Jens Lenkman doesn't need the spotlight, but he's upset about how much attention his <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=37099">ukelele</a> is getting. Therefore, what's a man to do but cast his iron steed aside? (Exclaim)<br /><br />In slight well-deserved news, Klaxons have been forced to completely <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=37107">redo</a> their second album because their major label wasn't a big enough fan. Boo urns. (Exclaim)<br /><br />And if they're looking for a modest-model <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/the-cribs/42693">award</a>, The Cribs have got it. (NME)<br /><br />Coming back from... hiding... The Beatles now are still in the fore-front of your memory because if you go to Liverpool Hope University, you can tooootaaallly <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/the-beatles/43200">study</a> them and come out of school... what... what job would you get?! (NME)<br /><br />Oh, I'd so much rather study things like <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/nme/42767">music vs. sex</a> (NME) and <a href="http://radio3.cbc.ca/blogs/2009/02/Scottish-Study-Says-Music-Can-Take-Pain-Away">music vs. pain</a>. (CBC Radio 3)<br /><br />CBC has figured out how to <a href="http://radio3.cbc.ca/blogs/2009/03/New-Search-Engine-Helps-Twitterers-Find-Music">really</a> get into bands on Twitter. (CBC Radio 3)<br /><br />And even if you're a nobody, but know technology, you can be cool too. This is just... <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2009/03/10/meet-the-world-s-first-iphone-band.aspx">ridiculous</a> to me though... (National Post)<br /><br />And even if you're technology, you can try and be hip like your older brother. Is <a href="http://radio3.cbc.ca/blogs/2009/02/iTunes-Launches-Indie-Spotlight">this</a> good or bad? (CBC Radio 3)<br /><br />Now I'll leave you with a couple good fights. Besides the fake Ben Folds and Torquil Campbell argument, there's these, which are soo much better.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/67243/radiohead-take-on-cyrus-and-west">Radiohead</a> versus <a href="http://pitchfork.com/news/34776-radiohead-suffer-the-wrath-of-miley-cyrus/">Miley Cyrus</a> AND Kanye West - so great - you can also listen to what started Miley's side <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2009/03/paint-blackhole-blacker.html">here</a>, but don't for one second mistake I'm rooting for her. Radiohead all the way. (Chart and Pitchfork)<br /><br />And then there's <a href="http://radio3.cbc.ca/blogs/2009/03/Wayne-Coyne-Slams-Arcade-Fire">Wayne Coyne</a> and <a href="http://pitchfork.com/news/34771-win-butler-responds-to-wayne-coynes-diss/">Win Butler</a>, which proved to be sad and hilarious at the same time. (Pitchfork and CBC Radio 3)<br /><br />And that's it! Phew. A lot of stars looking for attention in the last month, that's for sure. Now let's do them all a favor and send them mental hugs. Or you can just whine more about Rihanna and Chris Brown, ask for advice over how you should feel about it, anything really to Jess at <a href="mailto:roundletters@gmail.com">roundletters@gmail.com</a>!Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-65920393940480513692009-03-07T07:28:00.004-05:002009-03-07T07:32:59.287-05:00In the daylight anything feels like homeI'm going to have a good day today. How do I know this? Because I fully woke up this morning while watching Matt and Kim's video for "Daylight".<br /><br />I knew "Daylight" was a fantastic way to start an album, but now a day, wow!<br /><br />You can see that this couple has changed so much since their last album, and not just their music. Since when did Matt get contacts? Kim's dressing a little better, and looks a more healthy weight. They're finally not denying they're a couple.<br /><br />But all in all, if their cuteness doesn't brighten up your day, please let me know and I'll try and find something that does. Challenge?<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WgBeu3FVi60&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WgBeu3FVi60&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br />Infectious, much?Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-55340924431540502632009-03-06T15:50:00.002-05:002009-03-06T16:12:32.428-05:00SPIN updatesHey all, if you're somehow wondering what I've been up to, I can give you a little bit more of an insight here. But for a bigger insight, please visit <a href="http://jessicabroadblog.blogspot.com">my abroad blog</a>.<br /><br />Pretty much the extent of the music I'm getting here is very little, surprisingly. I recently saw Passion Pit play an in-store and Elliott BROOD play, and neither of these bands are British.<br /><br />Passion Pit was an interesting experience. It was right after I had to drop off my boyfriend at the airport after he visited me, so I wasn't in the best mood, but I needed the music to make me feel better. PP was a good choice, as I love their upbeat tracks off Chunk of Change. I started really listening to them when I got here, so it was a little bit of meaning. Anyways, I got there early so I waited forever. It was an in-store at this place called Pure Groove Records (fun fact, there's a street scene in my video, and that same street was featured in About a Boy, because that movie takes place in my neighborhood) which actually isn't really a record store ... it had like, 20 records behind their bar. Strange, but cool, in a weird way... Anyways, I somehow made friends with the store's intern and we chatted. I ended up bugging PP's people about getting an interview and lo and behold met Columbia Records (UK) Senior Press agent, he gave me his card. This other reporter told me he was grumpy because he was hungover, so be nice, but as soon as I mentioned SPIN he was quite jolly. So ... watched the band, filmed my stuff, and then waited forever again to get an interview. Ended up talking to drummer Nate Donmoyer.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;">Result: <a href="http://spinearth.tv/articles/930">HERE</a>.</span><br /></div><br />Elliott Brood was a great time, one of the best since I've been here. Why? Because it was all about CANADA. Besides having the most random opening acts (<a href="http://www.myspace.com/thebarkerband">The Barker Band</a> -- good live sound but if they just pushed a little more, would be much better, also the lead girl looked way miserable and bitchy // <a href="http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=266637176">Punch and the Apostles</a> -- ridiculous! also the accordion player looked like a corpse ... ps their new single is called "I'm a Hobo") I was worried that nobody would dance or get into the Brood, because, how would they know who they are? But I was so wrong. Mainly because the place seemed to be ridiculously all Canadians, or just super enthusiastic drunk British people. Every time someone from the band mentioned Canada, the place went wild. It was awesome. It made me feel like I was at the Horseshoe, and I miss it so much. Anyways, I also wasn't expecting the Brood to put on that great of a show. They did a great job and rocked out as much as you can on a banjo and ukeleles (actually thats a lot). This crazy man totally destroyed their set and upset the Brood, but they pulled through.<br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;">Result: <a href="http://spinearth.tv/articles/976">HERE</a>.</span><br /></div><br />Feedback would be great! How do you like what I'm doing for SPIN Earth so far? What should I be doing different? (No use suggesting anything about equipment, really.. I'm stuck right now). Also, if you're a Twitter-er, follow them <a href="http://twitter.com/SPINearth">here</a> and while you're at it, follow <a href="http://www.twitter.com/comfortinwords">me</a>. Oh, and follow <a href="http://twitter.com/mutedmag">Muted Magazine</a>! New issue out soon.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-71356228373408884992009-03-06T15:42:00.006-05:002009-03-06T15:50:07.594-05:00Paint the Blackhole BlackerAlright. So I listened to St. Vincent's <a href="http://www.spin.com/articles/free-download-st-vincents-does-disney">newest song</a>, "The Strangers," before I watched the upcoming video. I'm listening to it again because I need to get <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/66961/miley-cyrus-will-ruin-radiohead">this</a> video out of my head.<br /><br />I <s>watched</s> listened to all ten minutes of it. Blasphemy.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/b8NsIFxE5KQ&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/b8NsIFxE5KQ&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><br /><br /><br />Really, points of obsurdity:<br />-Miley, herself.<br />-' "Sex on Fire" is one of the greatest songs eeeveeeer!'<br />-The boy that cried when he met her because he was her biggest fan, was all "I LOVED your last episode" and she said "oh yeah which one?" and he said "um.. the one with your dad... wait... I dont remember..."<br />-How many people can you have talk at once? for god sakes.<br />-Count how many times Miley says "like" and please tell me what you got.<br />-Right at the end, purely, "i looove weiiirdos"<br />-Also ... this just makes Radiohead x10 cooler.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-15719196216422161412009-02-15T08:47:00.004-05:002009-02-15T10:10:36.590-05:00taking a moment to appreciate<div style="text-align: center;">I'm in the magazine business whether I like it or not. Some days I'm imagining doom falling in forms around me as I watch the failing process continue. When <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/">Chart</a> ceased its' magazine format, it hit me pretty hard. Glossy paper, while not as great for the environment, has been my love. And seeing it go down like this, especially when I (still) hope to get a job in the industry, is hardly any fun.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">So today, I'm taking a positive approach (except for a bit later on in this entry).</span><br /></div><br />The other day, I received a package from my grandparents. They sent me the three magazines they know I'd like to have: <a href="http://www.pastemagazine.com">Paste</a>, <a href="http://www.spin.com">SPIN</a>, and <a href="http://www.RollingStone.com">Rolling Stone</a>.<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SZgvFZ_zjJI/AAAAAAAAAK8/VhnciOH5bXc/s1600-h/random+004.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SZgvFZ_zjJI/AAAAAAAAAK8/VhnciOH5bXc/s320/random+004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303040331153116306" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />I noticed two trends in the issues that came: their ways of taking on a recession and still being original, and.... Lily Allen.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">PASTE</span></span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> is probably my favourite magazine, and has been for a while. In this issue, their 50th, titled the Lovefest, it's PACKED with goodness. In the matter of four pages you can read about sleek new earphones, an Italian chair made to hold books in every crevise (I want it SO much), an ad for their first book, "An Indie Rock Alphabet Book" ('story time is cool again!') a bit about Kevin Drew directing Feist's "The Water", and the nice list "The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> 7", which is bits and bobs (look at me being all British) that are SO COOL that the editors find (Nick Marino found <a href="http://www.leafcutterdesigns.com/">LeafCutterDesigns.Com</a> and it looks awesome.) I'm drooling, can you tell?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> is great for finding out about new bands -- it's rare I know the band they have in their breaking section. They don't focus on the obvious.<br /><br />A big thing <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> did this month was take their Sampler CD that comes with every issue and make it digital. At first, I was upset. Then, thinking clearly, I realized this was a fantastic decision. "This is great," I said to my boyfriend as I leafed through the issue for the first time. "With all of these magazines making cuts or going under right now, this is an amazing way to save money and make sure that doesn't happen." <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> said it for themselves. "Each year, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> ships more than 2 million cds. That's over 100,000 pounds of poly-carbonate plastic and paper sleeves, shipped millions of miles." Really, as <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> boasts themselves to be a green magazine, ("After you've read every single word of this magazine and shared it with all of your friends, please recycle it -- or add it to your leather-bound collection of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> magazines and save it forever" says under their contributors list) this brings up their level of respect.<br /><br />Check out this issue -- in theme for Valentines Day, there's Neko Case reporting on her 17 favourite things (1 being CANADA), "so and so loves this" with every article, and a spread of musicians posing with their beloved instruments.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">SPIN</span></span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SPIN</span> is very close to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> in my books. Not only is it my <a href="http://www.spinearth.tv/">newest employer</a>, but I generally enjoy reading it and approve of the choices of artists they cover. They have fantastic visuals, quick and quirky Q&A, and an ear out for catchy songs. Sometimes they get too close to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rolling Stone</span>, but on slow months, it's hard not to completely stray away from the only big things (such as when they both covered Amy Winehouse almost identically.) And sometimes they go with more pop culture acts (like when they covered Fall Out Boy, Paramore, etc, but hey, I used to love both of those bands too. Brandon Flowers is big in this issue though, and I'm not a fan.) This issue they have Big in 09, featuring Ladyhawke (the girl), Cut Off Your Hands, Glasvegas, Bon Iver, Andrew Bird, King Khan, and Animal Collective. None of them are breaking, but <span style="font-weight: bold;">SPIN</span>'s probably right; these bands established themselves towards the end of 08, so therefore they'll still be talked about a great deal in 09.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">**</span></span>This month, I saw both <a href="http://digital.spin.com/spin/200902/?u1=texterity">SPIN</a> and <a href="http://digital.pastemagazine.com/publication/?i=11776">Paste</a> have done another great thing in terms of recession, going by the way of how the public reads, and technology. They have incorporated the digitial issue. It's actually something <a href="http://www.theeyeopener.com/">the Eyeopener</a> considered months ago, but never followed up on. I think that <span style="font-weight: bold;">SPIN</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> doing this was a good idea.<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a href="http://www.spinearth.tv/"><br /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >ROLLING STONE</span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rolling Stone</span> made a change a few months ago to a different format of pages. I actually like this a lot more, as the big pages always stick out from my <a href="http://inspire-and-desire.blogspot.com/2007/05/some-intense-blogging-on-way.html">MegaMag</a> (missing it a lot right now ... and oh man blast from my blogging past) and it just looks cleaner. This is probably the only thing about Rolling Stone I like these days, and even still the fact that they changed their layout means they just jumped on the bandwagon.<br /><br />There's hardly any originality in this magazine anymore. I haven't read a feature and been like "hm, that was really good" or found an interesting new band I wanted to check out, in god knows how long. It seems that <span style="font-weight: bold;">RS</span> is not only slow on the uptake, but they keep choosing the same people to profile, are a bit too obvious with their political sides, and really, they've made their move from the music magazine it once was glorified in <span style="font-style: italic;">Almost Famous</span> to the pop culture rag it prides itself to be now. What's up, Jann Wenner? Since when did you just want to please people? I really don't see this magazine pleasing anyone lately, anyway.<br /><br />This month, they even let Patrick Stump review an album, because it was his dream to do so. Why on earth would you let him review an artist he loves so much, though? How is that fair? Yes, we all report on artists we love, but if we want a higer opinion of Stump, I'm not sure if this was the way to go.<br /><br />Their podcasts have been lacking (and not even been done), their breaking artists past their breaking point (not in Pop music standards though, I guess) and they're not bringing up any new boundaries. I used to idolize this magazine. I used to have a subscription. People used to laugh and say "someday we'll read your articles in Rolling Stone." Now, I hearing they're auctioning off their internships, and I've decided I'm done with it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">LILY ALLEN</span></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SZgvNcpC7-I/AAAAAAAAALE/cMh4yV02ob8/s1600-h/random+005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SZgvNcpC7-I/AAAAAAAAALE/cMh4yV02ob8/s200/random+005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303040469301915618" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Now, for Lily Allen. She is <span style="font-style: italic;">everywhere</span> and I love it. I think she's ridiculous, beautiful, and talented. Yes she sings about sex. Yes she sings about drugs. Doesn't everyone these days? Haven't they for ages? Why is she getting so much flack for being honest, and well, normal?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rolling Stone</span>'s scathing review says: "No longer content to be a quirky confessional songwriter, Allen has decided that she is a 'social critic,' a job that she lacks the insight and the maturity to pull off."<br />--Really, <span style="font-weight: bold;">RS</span>? <span style="font-style: italic;">REALLY</span>? You're critiquing a pop star, which is all you show these days, and you think she's doing it wrong? Lily's probably laughing about you right now.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SPIN</span>'s editorial says: "Allen is also a mass of contradictions: an unapologetic extrovert who loathes the tabloids and paparazzi, and a critic of celeb-centric culture who's not at all above indulging in same. It all makes for a wild read." And their review of her new album is the complete opposite to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rolling Stone</span>'s: "But unlike Winehouse, Allen has turned fame's lemony side into fresh new songs."<br /><br />It's clear to see <span style="font-weight: bold;">RS</span> is Team Winehouse and <span style="font-weight: bold;">SPIN</span> is Team Allen, now.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span> has their own Lily Allen paper doll! With boozed up party dresses, a mac computer, and cute jewelry. This is the true Allen.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Phew. I know it got negative towards the end, but the fact is I still love magazines. I love everything about them. The noise you hear when you flip the page (and that sometimes you have to lick your finger to get it to move), the bold layout, the section titles, and even the subscription fliers that fly out with every shake. I know I'm in the right business and to leave it would hurt, a lot. The industry can still count on me as an avid fan, but I'll always be critiquing and reading. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paste</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">SPIN</span>, and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rolling Stone</span> give me quite enough of substance, as you can see.<br /></div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-79123638542075545932009-02-09T17:46:00.002-05:002009-02-09T18:11:31.845-05:00RSS Reads: As of Feb. 9th and it's a doozyAlright, so I haven't updated my music news in a while and I won't in another long while as Ryan's finally coming tomorrow!<br /><br />So, in light of me being exhausted already (weekend in Manchester, check it out on my Abroad Blog) and that I'll be bringing so much news to you right now, it will be very brief. Enjoy!<br /><br /><br /><br />Alright, so everyone's going nuts over Twitter..<br />-David Bowie <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/david-bowie/42375">denies</a> any ties with it (NME)<br />-Erykah Badu <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148860">births</a> to it (Pitchfork)<br />-Pitchfork gives you guides to the <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148896">rockstars</a> who use it (Pitchfork)<br />-So <a href="http://radio3.cbc.ca/blogs/2009/02/Find-Your-Favourite-Bands-In-A-Sea-Of-Tweets">does</a> CBC (CBC Radio 3)<br /><br />Now, here's some awards announcements:<br />-Independent Awards <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2009/02/05/nominees-for-9th-annual-independent-music-awards-announced.aspx">announced</a>, pretty good (National Post)<br />-Grammy performance <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/149032">videos</a> (Pitchfork)<br />-These <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2009/02/09/chris-brown-and-rihanna-take-centre-stage-in-domestic-assault-investigation.aspx">two</a> missed out on the grammies for lameness (National Post)<br /><br />UK things:<br />-Pete Doherty to <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148923">teach</a>. At a University. In Dublin. (Pitchfork)<br />-New evidence on the Sid and Nancy debacle in <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=36265">film</a>. [it's playing in London soon, yay!] (Exclaim!)<br />-The two inches of snow caused insanity in London last week. So much so that Coldplay, Blur, and Radiohead <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/coldplay/42473">canceled</a> an event they were going to have there.<br />-Sigur Ros <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/146587">gave away</a> music in a London newspaper, bringing happy commercial-like times to all. (Pitchfork)<br />-Amy Winehouse's soon to be former <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/daily-gossip/42424">house</a> in Camden Town was messed up more than she could do herself. (NME)<br />-The Virgins managed to offend the most powerful British popstars in <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/the-virgins/42351">one hit</a>. (NME)<br />-Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens) is <a href="http://londonist.com/2009/02/yusuf_islam_the_musical.php">coming back</a> to London. (Londonist)<br />-Noel Gallagher <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/dizzee-rascal/42609">thinks</a> he can be Britains future Prime Minister. Better name than Boris, at least. (NME)<br />-London-based artist thats everywhere, Lily Allen, has <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/mark-ronson/42608">admitted</a> to being normal. Again. (NME)<br />-Guy that was <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/mongrel/42425">sacked</a> from Arctic Monkeys was depressed. ORLY? (NME)<br />-Famous Beatles cover band <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/the-beatles/42429">played</a> on the iconic rooftop before the Bobbies came. (NME)<br />-Yet somehow John Lennon's sons <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/john-lennon/42419">still</a> don't know how to share. (NME)<br /><br />Canada things:<br />-Ticketmaster, <a href="http://www.nationalpost.com/rss/story.html?id=1270355">why</a>, <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=36289">whyyyy</a>? (National Post / Exclaim!)<br />-Seeing Toronto (AND RYERSON) in the <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/nme/42555">headlines</a> feels good: for putting on the first deaf concert. (NME)<br />-The Acorn must be <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2009/01/31/rolf-klausener-of-the-acorn-talks-about-how-the-band-got-in-good-with-elbow-and-kanye.aspx">so giddy</a> right now. (National Post)<br />-Whatever @ recession, <a href="http://www.nationalpost.com/story.html?id=1236487">record labels</a> won't die! (National Post)<br /><br />Fun things:<br />-NPR <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2009/01/songsmith_brilliant_and_awful_1.html?ft=1&f=15709577">makes fun</a> of SongSmith. (NPR)<br />-Now Thats What I Call Music is <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/various-artists/42476">made into</a> TV. (NME)<br />-NPR <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2009/02/the_rock_strz_why_do_you_vex_u.html?ft=1&f=15709577">makes more fun</a> at bands with strange names. (NPR)<br />-Best Week Ever shows off the <a href="http://www.bestweekever.tv/2009/02/03/bwetvs-official-jam-of-09-c-bale-remixed/">remix</a> for Christian Bales meltdown. (BWE)<br /><br /><br />Oh, and <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=36322">watch what you blog</a>. (Exclaim!)<br /><br />Questions, concerns? So upset about Chris Brown and Rihanna and you need someone to talk to? Or still laughing at Christian Bale? Email <a href="mailto:roundletters@gmail.com">roundletters@gmail.com</a>.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-29745861760189571582009-01-31T10:16:00.005-05:002009-01-31T10:26:36.691-05:00life just got a little busierRecently, I've acquired two new jobs that are pretty exciting.<br /><br />Some friends from Ryerson put together an online music magazine about a year or so ago, named <a href="http://www.mutedmag.com">Muted Magazine</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SYRr4YEFf4I/AAAAAAAAAKs/LkaEm6zmPgM/s1600-h/Muted+Magazine.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 25px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SYRr4YEFf4I/AAAAAAAAAKs/LkaEm6zmPgM/s200/Muted+Magazine.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297477677970980738" border="0" /></a><br />Another classmate and I are now the new Features editors for the site. Make sure to check it out sometime in February! I'll have more details soon. And if you want to write for Features or have a band you'd like to see covered, let me know by emailing <a href="mailto:jlewis@mutedmag.com">jlewis@mutedmag.com</a>.<br /><br /><br />Back in September, I heard about SPIN Magazine looking for new International Correspondents in Toronto, supplying video reports on concerts and all musical happenings in their cities. In October, I made two videos, the longer versions can be seen <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/10/hopesing.html">here</a> and <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/10/spin-video-2.html">here</a>. Since then, they've been edited down.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SYRsdC4qYwI/AAAAAAAAAK0/TPE8UpDLMPw/s1600-h/SPIN+Earth.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 194px; height: 47px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SYRsdC4qYwI/AAAAAAAAAK0/TPE8UpDLMPw/s200/SPIN+Earth.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297478307941081858" border="0" /></a><br />It took a couple of restless months, but I can now say I am one of the Correspondents for SPIN's new program, SPIN Earth. I'll be bringing you concert footage from London and Toronto. It's not public yet, but when it is, I'll be sure to let you know!<br /><br /><br />So it's safe to say blogs might get fewer and far between as I'm taking on these two tasks with full force, beginning my heap of work for City over here in London, and you know, trying to be normal. I have a lot coming up though; more album and concert reviews, RSS news (this past week or so has been ridiculous for music geeks), and more. Stay tuned! (I've always wanted to say that.)Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-51634232687753248332009-01-26T07:03:00.003-05:002009-01-26T07:23:43.603-05:00Take A Look: The Dodos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SX2q7xM9TUI/AAAAAAAAAKk/kip5fVQCBsg/s1600-h/l_afd96a8272e8fa6ef1d1c743b7bbf6c1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 140px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SX2q7xM9TUI/AAAAAAAAAKk/kip5fVQCBsg/s200/l_afd96a8272e8fa6ef1d1c743b7bbf6c1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295576680654261570" border="0" /></a><br />I've been meaning to write about <a href="http://www.myspace.com/thedodos">this band</a> from San Francisco for a while. I <a href="http://www.soundscapesmusic.com/">purchased</a> their album "Visiter" back in November and have been listening to it A LOT since then.<br /><br />It's simple why this record is so great. It's a formula. Pretty basic, but somehow it works in its own way for The Dodos.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Catchy, fast drum beats<br />+<br />Toy keyboards<br />+<br />Simultaneous strumming<br />+<br />Soft vocals, laced with quiet harmonies<br /></div><br />Really. Just listen to "Red and Purple". Download the track <a href="http://www.sendspace.com/file/j89ldk">here</a>.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">There's nobody here</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />To tell us a joke</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />We tear off our ears</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> The fire that we stoke</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />You wrote me a note</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> The pages were blank</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />And I, I should have known</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Invisible ink</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />I know that I am yours and you will be mine</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Come and join us in the trenches</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Red and purple by our side</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Say you'll never leave us</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"> In this company of mine.</span></span><br /></div><br />And if that's not enough, just listen to the album and you'll find you won't be able to press pause. The songs roll into one another as if they were just waiting to be played on a road trip or on a day when you just want to stay in your room and listen to music, lying on your bed with your eyes closed.<br /><br />It's not just red and purple that you see when you close your eyes. Try it out.<br /><br />My second favourite track off of this record, after "Red and Purple" and before "Fools" is the bashful guitar-picking "Park Song". It's delightfully cute and will be stuck in your head for days. Download it <a href="http://www.sendspace.com/file/blwk6f">here</a>. And for the lyrics, go <a href="http://www.lyricsmania.com/lyrics/dodos_the_lyrics_39731/other_lyrics_71397/park_song_lyrics_788454.html">here</a>. You're going to want to sing along.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Went to the park today</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Watched all the dogs as they played</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />None of them barked, they just hanged</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Think I'll buy a dog when I get paid</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Saw the girl I know from my job</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />I think that she must think that I'm retarded</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />I act so dumb when I get started</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Time to cut my hair and get it parted</span></span><br /></div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-39727992112856148322009-01-23T08:06:00.005-05:002009-01-23T09:22:15.430-05:00RSS Reads: As of January 23rdIt's been a while since I've updated the RSS Reads section, and now that I am, boy do I have lots of good music information for you. So I'll try to keep it brief.<br /><br /><br />Well, last time I talked about Zooey & Ben getting engaged. Since then, I've found <a href="http://www.bestweekever.tv/2009/01/05/7-things-less-twee-than-zooey-deschanel-and-ben-gibbards-engagement/">this</a> and realized the hilarity all over again. (Best Week Ever)<br /><br />Whether Lily Allen is buying a beach, making out with lesbian twins, or terrorizing paparazzi here in London, (seriously I see her face at least twice a day, but not personally) she's <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/65122/lily-allen-flashes-kaiser-chiefs-man">accidentally</a> sending nudie pictures to the Kaiser Chiefs. (Chart)<br /><br />I still love Lily, though. I don't care how crazy and out of hand she gets. It just gets funnier.<br /><br />Speaking of London, the BRIT Awards were <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/65120/coldplay-lead-brit-awards-nominations">announced</a> this week, with the front runners being Coldplay, Duffy, and Radiohead. (Chart)<br /><br />I just have a couple problems with the nominations though: Radiohead nominated for British Group but not British Live Act, all the International Albums are the same nominations for International Act (and fooey on all of them anyway), and Coldplay in general.<br /><br />Cheering me up though is the fact that M.I.A. was <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148632">nominated</a> for an Oscar for the song "O...Saya" in Slumdog Millionare. I saw the movie yesterday, loved it. (Pitchfork)<br /><br />Remember the O.C. and their 'prime music taste'? Well, creator Josh Schwartz is working on a new <a href="http://radio3.cbc.ca/blogs/2009/01/Indie-Musicians-To-Get-15-Seconds-Of-Fame-From-OC-Creator">web series</a> that include four-minute episodes with 15-second bits of bands playing. (CBC Radio 3)<br /><br />In more collaboration <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=35724">news</a>, members from the Constantines, Attack in Black, and Miracle Fortress have started a new label named You've Changed Records. Clever, eh? And of course their first release is the Attack in Black side project Baby Eagle. (Exclaim)<br /><br />And now onto a new <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2009/01/22/separation-anxiety-cadence-weapon-offers-new-pay-what-you-want-album.aspx">release</a>: Cadence Weapon, with his new pay-as-you-want album, Seperation Anxiety. I don't really like whenever bands do this and the press is all "ooh they pulled a Radiohead" -- is this really Radiohead's claim to fame? (National Post)<br /><br />Anyways, I haven't gotten the album yet, but am planning on it. Cadence is <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/10/spin-video-2.html">slick</a>.<br /><br />As much as I love John Mayer (yes, still, although just not as much as I used to) and his one-episode of John Mayer Has a TV Show back in 2004, apparently someone else <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/nme/42073">wanted</a> him back, as he might be getting his own variety show. (NME)<br /><br />Remember when Mark Ronson and Amy Winehouse were targeted on a terroris hit list? Turns out it was <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/mark-ronson/42242">planted</a>. (NME)<br /><br />I just liked this <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=35868">picture</a> of Donovan and his crazy imagination. (Exclaim)<br /><br />Now, I'm actually bringing you some "rap" news.<br />Lil Wayne: I just loved this headline. "Lil Wayne <a href="http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2009/01/lil-wayne-dropps-rapping-starts-crooning.html">Works</a> On Rock Album, Horror Movie". It's like that rock film IS the horror movie. (Paste)<br /><br />And then Bob Boilen from NPR decided to go gangster with his <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2008/12/be_like_lil_wayne_1.html?ft=1&f=15709577">new look</a>. (NPR)<br /><br />And finally, the <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2009/01/19/joaquin-phoenix-rises-from-the-ashes-as-a-rapper.aspx">joke</a> of Joaquin Phoenix. (National Post)<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Am I providing you good music highlights? Or do you have something else to say about it? Sick of Lily Allen and Lil Wayne, or wishing the O.C. would come back to life? Well then, email Jess at </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="mailto:roundletters@gmail.com">roundletters@gmail.com</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">.</span>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-19172859108225679082009-01-21T11:21:00.004-05:002009-01-21T12:58:32.970-05:00Drool-worthy 2009 AlbumsI'm already ridiculously excited for the rest of 2009 in terms of music. We already know that despite <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2009/01/top-albums-of-2008.html">the list I gave</a> for 2008, it was a pretty disappointing year <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/11/getting-into-ho-hum-spirit.html">compared to</a> 2007.<br /><br />But now, I've got my hands on some new albums for this year, and I'm going gaga over them.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Coconut Records -- Davy</span><br />I love Jason Schwartzman. Seriously. When Nighttiming came out in 2007, I was so into it. It was also around the time when The Darjeeling Limited was playing, and I had a chance to see Jason and Wes Anderson on Canada's MTV Live show. I remember he passed out gum to everyone and Wes was wearning funny socks. Anyways, Nighttiming was this jem that came out of something nobody remembered: Phantom Planet. Jason went back to his music love, bringing future indie darling Zooey Deschanel into the limelight and even Kirsten Dunst. The songs were cute, simple, and on his sleeve. Now, with Davy, he gets a little deeper. Starting out with "Microphone" you know the rest of the album is going to get good. <span style="font-style: italic;">You are my voice, my microphone</span>, he sings. He's letting you do the interpreting. Now, it's only 9 songs. But it's enough to tide me over with his little guitar strummings and toy piano toilings until maybe another year and a half from now.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt & Kim -- Grand</span><br />As I was listening to this album yesterday, I thought "wow, their first self-titled was fun and cutesy, made you remind of great childhood times, but this you can tell is the evolution into a more mature version but it's like when the grown-up learns how to find their inner child." And then today, I see two reviews, one in <a href="http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2009/01/matt-and-kim-grand-1.html">Paste</a> and one in <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148388">Pitchfork</a>, that basically lay out the same idea. This pair really knows how to work their fans, but you can tell they put a lot of thought into this album and how they were going to beat a sophomore slump. Songs like "Daylight," "Good Ol' Fashion Nightmare," and "Don't Slow Down" are my favourites so far, and definitely on repeat already. (P.S. Want to read a two year old interview I did with the band? Go <a href="http://www.truthexplosion.com/live/interviews/interviews.php?id=178">here</a>. They detail their meaning of fun: Kim: We should make t-shirts that say “pursuit of fun.” Matt: No, that would be cheesy.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">M. Ward -- Hold Time</span><br />I can't believe I've been missing out on M. Ward all this time (besides She & Him.) His sleepy voice and intelligent lyrics are too close to too much I can handle. Today I listened to his 2006 album Post-War and it was beautiful. Now onto this album, which I don't believe is out yet, and 20 seconds into the first track I already love it. I loved him <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/07/lagging-tales-too-many-to-count.html">since I saw</a> She & Him play and witnessed the way he gazed at Zooey in a friendly loving way. And when he sang one song that night, the crowd went nuts. Now I know why. "Never Had Nobody Like You" will have you swooning.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Franz Ferdinand -- Tonight: Franz Ferdinand</span><br />They may have been <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/12/darts-of-pleasure.html">disappointing</a> in Toronto's concert in December, but this album is promising. "Ulysses" is fun, has a fantastic yet similar beat to my favourite "40'" off of their first album, and opens the album feeling intimate as Alex whispers "<span style="font-style: italic;">come on, let's get hiiiiigh</span>" into a ascending riff. This is similar to their other albums because all the while you're listening to it, you just picture your feet stamping the ground. Maybe even a little fist punch? Or maybe just some hip shaking. Take your pick. (Also, I love they way he says Ulysses... more like U-ly-sees). <span style="font-style: italic;">I find a new way, baaaaby.</span><br /><br />Okay. That will feed your music fix for now. But I still have four more albums to asses. They're not 2009, but still good. There's some British talent I'm looking into via Broken Family Band, The Wave Pictures, The Hoosiers, and then there's of course the newest hype-band, Passion Pit.<br /><br />P.S. For a more in-depth update on what I'm doing in London, check out my <a href="http://jessicabroadblog.blogspot.com">Abroad Blog</a>.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-15275867563287739352009-01-14T20:49:00.002-05:002009-01-14T20:55:27.602-05:00Rock and Roll TourToday I Saw:<br /><br />One of the birth places of rock and roll in London, near Chinatown.<br /><br />Where Paul Simon used to Busker.<br /><br />Where Bob Dylan used to be popular.<br /><br />Where nobody recognized Elton John and Mick Jagger.<br /><br />Where there's a road named after a Lou Reed song.<br /><br />Where, on that street, is a recording studio that housed Bowie, Beatles, and more.<br /><br />Where the Rolling Stones met one another.<br /><br />Where Jimi Hendrix had his last show.<br /><br />Where Judy Garland had her last show.<br /><br />Where all the Harry Potter premieres are.<br /><br />Where the Sex Pistols were formed under Vivienne Westwood and Malcom McLaren's watchful eyes.<br /><br />Where Pink Floyd used to play all the time.<br /><br />Where Paul McCartney's offices are.<br /><br />Where the Beatles played over Apple Studios for the last time.<br /><br />and more. It was a good day. Then I went to go see Edward Scissorhands, the musical/ballet. Beautiful, beautiful day.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-81566438689458254232009-01-14T20:44:00.003-05:002009-01-14T20:48:26.201-05:00Ahoy from Londontown!I have a short blip for you.<br /><br />Yesterday, I visited the city of Bath. For the recap, go to my new <a href="http://jessicabroadblog.blogspot.com/">Abroad Blog</a>.<br /><br />In the city, right before I entered the Roman Bath Houses, there was this busker. He glowed like the rest of the people in the city.<br /><br />He was singing "Imagine". I thought it was appropriate in so many ways.<br /><br />There were other nice buskers around the city that evening, but this guy stood out.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-s2IXxCj3kA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-s2IXxCj3kA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-58625079475198253172009-01-04T16:54:00.003-05:002009-01-04T18:04:29.974-05:00Top Albums of 2008Finally, here's my top ten albums of 2008 post! I'm keeping it short description this year because let's face it, I'm lazy. And tired. And getting ready for London. (Two days!) Also, I'll be adding on my honorary list, haha.<br /><br />Here goes.<br /><br />10. The Danks -- Samples<br />I saw these guys play twice this year (<a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/06/lagging-tales-nxne-part-1.html">review 1</a>, <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/09/live-two-hours-traffic-pop-to-go.html">review 2</a>) and even though they're pretty much Two Hours Traffic's other half and yearning to be closer to the Strokes, their energy is infectious. Samples, just a little EP of seven songs, is charming, gritty, and has the raw charm that a first EP should have. I see big things in the future for them. Check out "Treaty Connector" and "Sold Me Out".<br /><br />9. Woodhands -- Heart Attack<br />This record is amazing, basically. I didn't really <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/10/spin-video-2.html">get into it</a> until later on in the year, which is why it's further down my list, but it's just so. much. fun. They've earned top honors with NOW and Exclaim (and probably more that I missed) and Eye Weekly in March during CMW. It's so deserved. It's one hip-nerd beat after another. Check out "Dancer" and "I Wasn't Made For Fighting".<br /><br />8. Sam Roberts Band -- Love at the End of the World<br />You knew I couldn't leave this album off the list, it was pretty obvious. Now, I don't think this record was as good as the others, but it definitely held its own. It seemed that Roberts was more focused on the lyrics than the music, but it's not a big deal. It had a grown up vibe. I saw Roberts play these songs three times this year, and it was never dissapointing. Check out "Lions of the Kalahari" and "Detroit '67".<br /><br />7. Girl Talk -- Feed the Animals<br />This was another obvious choice for me. The mashing has gotten better; bringing back the forgotten 90s rap is always fun. This was my summer/fall party record, definitely. You don't need a playlist, just put this record on. I don't know how long this fad will last, but it was a fad I graciously accepted this year. Check out "No Pause" and "Like This".<br /><br />6. The Ting Tings -- We Started Nothing<br />I really don't care that these guys are iPod darlings. This record was cute, fun, and jammin'. Their harmonies really work well together, but each shine on their own just as well. Katie's voice sounds like one that could get annoying, but it never does. She's dead on, pop, and loving it. Jules' drumming is the kind that's lazy dancing, but knows its cool. And his vocals always come in at the exact right time, like in the end of "That's Not My Name". Check out "Shut Up and Let Me Go" and "We Walk".<br /><br />5. She & Him -- Volume I<br />Really, this list is turning into more than obvious if you've been following my trends this year. Zooey is my one and only woman crush, and M. Ward is just as ooey gooey. This record fills you with warmth, love you've never noticed, and a desire to be a musician if you aren't already. These two combined their talents and really made magic this year. I can't wait to see what's next. Not to mention, their <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/07/lagging-tales-too-many-to-count.html">live show</a> was the cutest show I've ever seen. Check out "I Thought I Saw Your Face Today" and "Sweet Darlin'".<br /><br />4. Tim Fite -- Fair Ain't Fair<br />Oh <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/07/if-you-aint-got-cash-use-credit.html">Tim</a>, my friend, you've done so well. This record was so much fun but I could sense a twinge of sadness. It's one thing to entirely use samples, but it's another to really input what you want to convey onto someone else's work. It's the best form of recycling. This record played a huge part to my summer, and seriously, between this album and his others, there are some notes or vocal chords i hear in other songs always thinking its Tim. Therefore, good factor of stickability. Anyways, if there's any way to make a great record even better is how you <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/07/lagging-tales-too-many-to-count.html">display</a> it on <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/reviews/54559/live-adam-green-declares-himself-nardwuars-enemy">stage</a>, and Tim was the best with this. He upstaged every band he played with this year, and well deserved. Check out "Big Mistake" and "Yesterday's Garden".<br /><br />3. Cut Copy -- In Ghost Colours<br />Holy music to get your heartbeat going, Batman! This was another spring/summer favourite of mine. I saw them back in May and I swear I left the ground many times in the crowd. This was the record I blasted in my room when my neighbors were being annoying and loud, or even if I just needed some dance moments to myself (always the best, and least choreographed). This was a headphone favourite as well. Man, the Australians know how to do the new wave+new new wave best. Check out "Lights & Music" and "Hearts on Fire".<br /><br />2. Foals -- Antidotes<br />Beautiful, carefully placed rock. I still can't get over how great this record is. Just one hit after another. It's messy, but worked out that way. It's like they happened upon all of these songs by accident, like they didn't even know the level of their talent. I played this record so much this year. It just seemed to far away, mystical, and imaginative. Where one piece puts together another piece and it just always, always works out. I <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/reviews/54505/live-foals-arrived-more-like-bucking-broncos">saw them</a> in May and it was their first Canadian show, but also one they didn't think they did too well on, but I thought it rocked. They're playing in London in March with Bloc Party, and I'll go only for them. Check out "Red Sock Pugie" and "Electric Bloom".<br /><br />1. Plants & Animals -- Parc Avenue<br />Beauty, just... <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/2008/09/live-plants-animals-among-nature-of.html">beautiful</a>. So much is packed into one record, and it doesn't sound cramped in the slightest. This is my number one album for so many reasons... because countless times did I play this record, talk about this record, etc. I saw them play only once after missing them twice, but it was great. They had a huge part in my musical of 2008. I'm not going to go into more detail of this record, because I already described it <a href="http://roundletters.blogspot.com/search/label/bestfirsts">here</a>. Check out "Bye Bye Bye" and "New Kind of Love".<br /><br /><br />And now for the honorary list members, which all were really amazing and I wish could be on my top 10 but just slightly didn't make the cut. Here they would be if added on after 10.<br /><br />11. The Dodos -- Visiter<br />12. My Morning Jacket -- Evil Urges<br />13. Human Highway -- Moody Motorcycle<br />14. Winter Gloves -- About a Girl<br />15. Hexes & Ohs -- Bedroom Madness<br />16. Of Montreal -- Skeletal Lamping<br />17. Sigur Ros -- Með Suð Í Eyrum Við Spilum Endalaust<br />18. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club -- The Real Rarities<br />19. Mardeen -- Read Less Minds<br />20. Little Joy -- Little Joy<br /><br />More honorable mentions...<br /><br />black keys<br />born ruffians<br />brendan canning<br />cadence weapon<br />chad vangaalen<br />contantines<br />death cab for cutie<br />elliott brood<br />jason mraz<br />jim noir<br />the kills<br />land of talk<br />mother mother<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-59963360906704431342008-12-29T20:27:00.004-05:002008-12-29T20:52:44.670-05:00My RSS Reads: As of December 29thHey Kids! Here's the year's end RSS Reads ... bringing you the wacky, the charming, and the gasp-a-licious news.<br /><br />Alright, let's start off with the wacky.<br /><br />I'm getting more and more excited to move to London. Why? Because <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/various-artists/41818">Star Wars the musical</a> will be coming to the o2 Arena. My roommate Clara is going to be so jealous. (NME)<br /><br />Of all the strange "Womanizer" <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/64465/all-american-rejects-cover-britney-spears">covers</a> there are lately -- emo-pop jock straps the All-American Rejects took their shot at it. And it's HORRIFYING. Oh, Tyson Ritter... wipe that smirk off your face. I'm siding with Britney on this one. (Chart)<br /><br />John Lennon will be '<a href="http://www.nme.com/news/the-beatles/41836">starring</a>' in a new 'advert' for the One Laptop Per Child Foundation (im sorry, does anyone else think the name of this organization is hilarious?), and of course permission was granted by Miss Ono herself. (NME)<br /><br />Now, here's the charming. Year-end recaps.<br /><br />Ben Rayner <a href="http://www.thestar.com/article/558737">listed</a> his thoughts on the rock music that stuck. I like his simple explanations, like for Foals: "Impossibly intricate strangeness. Makes you move, makes you think." Hm.. reminds me of <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/reviews/54505/live-foals-arrived-more-like-bucking-broncos">this fabulous time</a>. (The Toronto Star)<br /><br />NPR's Monitor Mix, by the ex-Sleater Kinney member Carrie Brownstein, is my new blog discovery. After listening to the year-end podcast by the heads of the NPR Music section and being intrigued by their theories, I checked this out. On this entry, Brownstein <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/monitormix/2008/12/2008time_of_songs_best_of.html">explained</a> how this year as been more in the favour of songs, not albums. And she says their time theme is 'teenage'. (NPR)<br /><br />And of course, another Wall-E + National Post ... <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2008/12/27/cultural-lessons-what-wall-e-the-robot-taught-us-about-love.aspx">post</a>. "What Wall-E the robot taught us about love." *giggle* And it's not just about Wall-E. It's about this year's movies & their themes of togetherness. It taps on Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist and Young People Fucking, too. Genius. (National Post)<br /><br />And the last year-end list I'll show you holds a nice soft spot for this RSS Reads issue. Because <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/features/64481/chartattack-staff-top-10s-lists">my own name showed up</a> in my own feeds. It's Chart's annual contributor's top 10 lists. Find mine! Now that you've got the list ... I'll explain them soon. (Chart)<br /><br />But now, here's the kicker. The gasp-a-licious news.<br /><br />Just days after solidifying my love for Zooey Deschanel once again, she's announced that she's <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148227">engaged</a> to Death Cab for Cutie's front man, Ben Gibbard.<br /><br />This is awesome. But mainly hilarious for a few reasons. Pitchfork posted this, and they must have typed it so fast in indie glee (and sadness) that they even spelt her name wrong in the headline. But it <span style="font-style: italic;">did</span> end in an exclamation point.<br /><br />"Cue the sound of thousands of blogger hearts breaking... Isn't that just the most indie-in-2008 thing ever? It almost seems a little <span style="font-style: italic;">too</span> perfect, as if we made it up in some kind of fantasy indie rock love connection."<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Sigh.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Questions? Comments? Crying over the loss of Zooey and Ben? Or did you make a cover of Womanizer that you think is better? Send all thoughts to Jess at </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="mailto:roundletters@gmail.com">roundletters@gmail.com</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span><br /><br />And don't forget to partake in the poll on the right side of the page! What will you be doing for New Years Eve?<br /><br />Anyways... that sums up the end of the year in My RSS Reads. Stay tuned for a new Take a Look as well as my Top 10 of 2008 post. I still have two more days, you know!Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-83211329659861445112008-12-28T22:35:00.003-05:002008-12-28T22:49:16.821-05:00treating myselfSo yesterday was my birthday. Finally legal all over the world! Anyways, I definitely treated myself to some new music before i leave for London. Here's a peak at what I bought yesterday (Soundscapes has a boxing week sale!), but shhhh about how I'm a bit slow on the uptake.<br /><br />Little Joy, Santogold&Diplo, Bon Iver, Tusks.<br /><br /><embed src="http://www.seeqpod.com/cache/seeqpodEmbed.swf" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" flashvars="domain=http://www.seeqpod.com&playlist=7c790904f0" width="425" height="350"></embed><br /><a href="http://www.seeqpod.com/search">SeeqPod - Playable Search</a><br /><br />I also bought this year's edition of Best Music Writing. This year, Nelson George was the guest editor, and his introduction was really interesting. It says a lot for who I am and who I want to be.<br /><br />Here's an exerpt:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"The most exciting, vital role of the critic is to <span style="font-weight: bold;">identify and advocate new movements</span>, particularly those that serve minority taste and <span style="font-weight: bold;">grow organically out of a community of like-minded individuals,</span> be they a collective of DJs, music loving druggies addicted to the same substance and <span style="font-weight: bold;">sounds</span>, or bold dancers looking for their particular <span style="font-weight: bold;">perfect beat</span>. In many cases it is from some <span style="font-weight: bold;">combustible combination</span> of these elements that a <span style="font-weight: bold;">true movement is born</span>. I think that the ability to give <span style="font-weight: bold;">voice and definition</span> to such communities can be what <span style="font-weight: bold;">makes or breaks a music journalist</span>."</span><br /><br />It's a pretty big deal.<br /><br />P.S. I also saw Yes Man, mainly for my love of Zooey Deschanel, but oh man. Such a funny movie! But she is great. And so damn pretty.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-54419625217356265872008-12-21T19:09:00.002-05:002008-12-21T19:19:45.339-05:00Getting in the spiritIn the spirit of moving to London -- <span style="font-weight: bold;">IN SEVENTEEN DAYS</span> -- I've got a post for you all about really cool or just plain weird things going on in my new favourite city.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.thewha.org/images/london.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 579px; height: 355px;" src="http://www.thewha.org/images/london.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/64005/kanye-west-wants-to-intern">Kanye West </a>is going to be moving there too ... to be a fashion magazine intern. God almighty do I want to run into him & make him angry, just to see another CAPITALIZED BITCHY BLOG POST. (Chart)<br /><br />This is definitely a self-made <a href="http://londonist.com/2008/12/londonists_back_passage_9.php">tour </a>I plan on doing once I get there. All around a London-style "Tin Pan Alley" which turned into a place where the Sex Pistols, Beatles, Elton John, and the Stones would record. (Londonist)<br /><br />Speaking of those names, a recording studio that's housed those names, and is currently home to U2 (euch) <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/nme/41682">might be closing</a> because of the rough economic times. (NME)<br /><br />And a London concert venue, <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/nme/41698">Nambucca</a>, which has seen the likes of The Pidgeon Detectives, The Black Kids, and The Libertines/Babyshambles, was hit by a fire. (NME)Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-59461745874977325042008-12-21T18:47:00.004-05:002008-12-21T19:20:38.704-05:00My RSS Reads (new name!) as of December 21stHey all -- here's my second installment of My RSS Reads (grammatically and stylistically rearranged from Reads of my RSS... took me long enough.)<br /><br />There's quite some interesting stuff going on actually, so these are good reads you should check out.<br /><br />First, one of my favourite bands (and album of 2007), The National, are gearing up for their <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=35422">next album</a>! Tres excited. (Exclaim)<br /><br />Kevin Barnes is <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=35380">readying</a> a new Of Montreal record already, as well as working with MGMT on a sideproject named Blikk Fang and that the soundtrack wonderman John Brion might work on it too. (Exclaim)<br /><br />But in more unfortunate album news, Ben Gibbard has explained that a new Postal Service record more than likely <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148166">won't ever happen</a>. He even compared it to <span style="font-style: italic;">Chinese Democracy</span>. That's when you know it's crazy. (Pitchfork)<br /><br />Lily Allen got herself into more trouble recently with her record label when she <a href="http://www.chartattack.com/news/64195/lily-allen-in-trouble-for-britney-cover">covered </a>Britney Spears' "Womanizer" track. I love the Lilly, but .... why'd you cover it already? I don't even see how that could have been much fun. And way to go Mark Ronson for screwing everything up. (Chart)<br /><br />For Jack White, apparently newest job under his belt is <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/the-white-stripes/41737">journalist</a>. That is, if you can count having a conversation with Cate Blanchett for Interview magazine at all journalistic. Cool, he interviewed her, but when it got to the point where the story became more about him, that's where the cred goes back down. (NME)<br /><br />Hey all you metalheads and hardcore emo fans! Turns out <a href="http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/generalarticlesynopsfullart.aspx?csid2=844&fid1=35465">headbanging</a> can cost you your life. BEWARE. (Exclaim)<br /><br />Here's some fun -- LEGO + Music = <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148161">LEGO Album Covers</a>. (Pitchfork)<br /><br />Something I forgot to post last entry was <a href="http://www.pastemagazine.com/blogs/ctrl-v/2008/12/are-you-there-zooey-its-me-rachael.html">this</a>.. Rachael Maddux is awesome, I've delt with her last summer about internships (unfortunately I didnt get it, but I still love the mag and will someday try again) and I love Zooey Deschanel. Put them both together and this is what you get! (Paste)<br /><br />Final note, goodbye <a href="http://www.torontoist.com">Torontoist</a>. I'll miss you.<br /><br />Questions? Comments? Bent over Coldplay breaking up or getting back together? Giggling over the Lonely Island? Need help with your Top 2008 list? Contact jess at <a href="mailto:roundletters@gmail.com">roundletters@gmail.com</a>.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-21792851476736602052008-12-17T14:30:00.004-05:002008-12-17T14:58:40.842-05:00my last Toronto show until the summer was...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SUlZmXSiDpI/AAAAAAAAAKI/88ysbjOI0lo/s1600-h/humanhighway+005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SUlZmXSiDpI/AAAAAAAAAKI/88ysbjOI0lo/s200/humanhighway+005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280850553690263186" border="0" /></a><br />Human Highway. Aka Jim Guthrie, grandson of Woody Guthrie, and Nick Thorburn, front man of band Islands and now defunct-Unicorns.<br /><br />I've never been to the Tranzac before... but when we (Yahlehly & i) finally found the place (It's on Bloor! No, it's on Bathurst!) we entered, it just started snowing. there seemed to be two rooms, visible with people, guitars, listening. There were posters for Human Highway all over, but we didn't know where to go. Then I pushed open a door, right into the concert. It felt strange to see everyone else was in on the secret but us for those long seconds. But as we filtered through the hipsters, upon us was The Magic. They played a pretty sweet set, they looked like they were having fun, harmonizing nice and all, but I found a few too many moments to zone out.<br /><br />Then it was time for Human Highway.. who in fact borrowed two of the members from the Magic. Brothers Geordie Gordon (front man) and Evan Gordon (who seriously looks like Ed Westwick, you know... Gossip Girl... Son of Rambow..) Anyway. The set was pretty great... for their first tour. Their first tour! And I got to see their first Toronto show. Sweet, eh?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Watch "The Sound"</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/30fABuFbf8A&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/30fABuFbf8A&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></div>They played most of the songs off of Moody Motorcycle. It was unfortunate that my favourite songs seemed more forced & awkward then some of the others played, but I didn't mind. Yahlehly whispered, "it's the band, not them."<br /><br />Either way... it was just cool to see they were having fun. Guthrie and Thorburn have a brotherly, cousinly, kind of vibe to them. They didn't look at one another very often, so focused on their guitar strumming sychronization, but it was obvious they were very conscious of this baby project they've produced and how much they wanted it to go well.<br /><br />Guthrie joked continually about his cats. "I've got to go home and feed them... pet them, you know?" Thorburn responded "Oh Jim, it's fine." Jim: "This isn't a very good place to be making a joke, is it?"<br />(Of course... my translation's probably not 100% accurate.. but you get the idea.)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Watch "Moody Motorcycle"</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ap2NTXL95yg&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ap2NTXL95yg&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></div>By the time their short set was over (I mean really, they only have one album's worth of material) and we exited (after waving farewell to Thorburn), there was a good amount of snow on the ground. We just looked at it for a moment... astonished that in two hours something like that would happen. Who's used to snow anymore?<br /><br />After we got over the pretty sphere of Brunswick avenue... and trekked to Spadina, the snow more in our face than anything, we sat warming up in the subway car pondering the greatness of Human Highway's album cover. I got home... excited (to my surprise) to walk through new snow that was untouched. Pondered the subway yard in front of my house in its snowy wonder, and retreated inside. This was my last Toronto show... until it's warm outside again.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SUlYSVPnX6I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/pyax_aNAA-E/s1600-h/me+012.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 194px; height: 146px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/SUlYSVPnX6I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/pyax_aNAA-E/s320/me+012.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280849110032146338" border="0" /></a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-51737121923337902532008-12-11T13:35:00.006-05:002008-12-21T19:07:18.436-05:00Reads Of My RSS: as of Thursday, December 11thHere's the first edition of a new feature, <span style="font-style: italic;">Reads of My RSS</span>.<br />Bringing you news of the past week (or so) that's a) hilarious b) interesting and c) at least worth noting.<br /><br />First off, let me explain how much news there's been this past week about <span style="font-weight: bold;">the Arcade Fire</span>. Seriously, it's like they injected happy bubbles into their PR person, possibly worried about being forgotten. Don't worry <span style="font-weight: bold;">Arcade Fire</span>, you may not be on best of 2008 lists because you ranked so high in 2007, but it's still hard to forget the track "Neon Bible," at least for me.<br /><br />So, not only have they given up rights to the <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/147922">Benjamin Button trailer</a> and given out cryptic hints about <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148115">releasing a film</a>, titled Miror Noir, but members of the band that are also in <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bell Orchestre </span>have announced that they're <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/148024">now signed</a> to Canada indie powerhouse label Arts & Crafts, and will release their second album next year. (Pitchfork)<br /><br />Keeping it on a Montreal tone, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plants & Animals</span> have created a <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/147993">new video</a> for the song "Feedback in the Field." It looks awesome, but too bad Firefox is hating on me lately with audio. (Pitchfork)<br /><br />More Canadian collective news, and this time it's the ever-growing <span style="font-weight: bold;">Broken Social Scene</span>. Last week, they played a couple shows in Toronto that I unfortunately missed (although, it was more choice, I can't stand the Sound Academy) but <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/147858%5C">one night</a> included <span style="font-weight: bold;">Isaac Brock</span> of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Modest Mouse</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Elizabeth Powell</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Land of Talk</span>, while the next night had <span style="font-weight: bold;">Emily Haines </span>from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Metric</span>. (Pitchfork)<br /><br />But, it gets worse in terms of "holy crap i can't believe i missed this show." Why? Maybe you'll start kicking yourself in the face too when you continue reading, finding out that the other night here in Toronto at the little Dakota Tavern, was <span style="font-weight: bold;">Broken Social Scene</span>,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Jason Collett</span>,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Metric, Stars</span>, and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gentleman Reg</span>.<br /><br />Yeah. Fuck.<br /><br />The National Post <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2008/12/10/one-night-in-toronto-kevin-drew-and-broken-social-scene-at-the-dakota-tavern.aspx">got the scoop</a> (and the cell phone pictures), and even though their account sounds really fangirl-ish and makes an almost horrifying comparison to a night with the Sex Pistols, the Clash, the Buzzcocks, and the Damned, it's still a good portrayal of the night in the sense that you can tell everyone was also thinking "holy crap." (National Post)<br /><br />A few months ago, it was announced that British rock group <span style="font-weight: bold;">the Long Blondes</span> were forced to disband after <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dorian Cox</span> had a stroke that paralyzed his right side. Sad news, right? But there's a glimmer of hope. It was <a href="http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/node/147909">announced</a> that Cox will be getting a SaeboFlex glove that will give him use to his right hand, and therefore he will be able to go back to playing guitar.<br /><br />Pitchfork put it in a new light though. "based on the way it looks, we're kind of hoping Cox forgets about music and decides to start fighting crime." (Pitchfork)<br /><br />Alright, now last music-related news before I get to some other random good stuff. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Grant Lawrence</span> of CBC Radio 3 <a href="http://radio3.cbc.ca/blogs/2008/12/transmission-quips-and-quotes-from-music-industry-leaders">posted</a> a few days ago a recollection of the transmission fair, where all of the top music executives got together in British Columbia for discussions. Though <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lawrence</span> may have found some mental pain in the matter, the tips he brought back were either duh-points or actutally pretty interesting. He recalled how <span style="font-weight: bold;">Seymour Stein</span> said "I signed <span style="font-weight: bold;">the Ramones</span> because they reminded me of <span style="font-weight: bold;">the Beach Boys</span>." Oof. (CBC Radio 3)<br /><br />Alright, now my last three news bits are courtesty of the National Post. I personally think they have the best Arts section in any Canadian newspaper, or any other paper I've seen as a matter of fact. They're witty, daring, and overall affective in what they find to cover.<br /><br />They <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2008/12/04/best-animated-features-just-as-interesting-these-days-as-best-pictures.aspx">discussed</a> how animated features should just be nominated for Best Picture at this point. I whole heartedly agree, as any mention of Wall-E makes me all silly and giggly.<br /><br />They <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2008/12/08/rowling-s-the-tales-of-beedle-the-bard-may-get-film-treatment.aspx">dwelled on the fact</a> of how <span style="font-weight: bold;">J.K. Rowling's</span> latest tale, The Beetle and the Bard, (I can't believe I don't own it yet...) is most likely going to be made into a film. Can't say I didn't see that coming. But this is good, as I've stuck it to Twilight these past few months as a true HP fan. Representin'...<br /><br />And lastly, you cannot just skim over<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Steven Murray's</span> hilarious Extremely Bad Advice column. <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2008/12/11/extremely-bad-advice-by-the-power-of-abby.aspx">Here's today's post</a>... on how he got into giving advice in a bloody way.<br /><br /><br />That's it for this week's Reads of My RSS. Comments? Questions? Think I'm missing something huge? Too concerned about <span style="font-weight: bold;">MIA's</span> baby or <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jennifer Aniston</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Britney Spears's</span> decreasing mental stability? Contact Jess at <a href="mailto:roundletters@gmail.com">roundletters@gmail.com</a>.<br /><br />P.S. Look to the right (if you're on the page, not your Reader) --> new poll! Get voting!<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clqK5OC3BWE" target="_blank"><strong></strong></a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-89124449045376027432008-12-05T11:46:00.004-05:002008-12-05T13:52:31.892-05:00darts of pleasureWhen you hear a lot of talk about how a show sold out within minutes, you expect said show to be pretty insane, right?<br /><br />I wouldn't consider last night's Franz Ferdinand show to be insane, or anywhere near it.<br /><br />However, the Scottish lads put on a great performance, and played all of the songs I was hoping ("Take Me Out," "40'," "The Dark of the Matinee," "The Fallen," "Do You Want To," etc...). It's just... to me, a show isn't just the band playing. In order to critique the experience, you need to take into account the audience.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Watch "Dark of the Matinee"</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5zeqJWaWRYc&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5zeqJWaWRYc&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div><br />That being said, why the hell did I only see less than ten arms flailing about until the final song of the encore, "This Fire"?<br /><br />I've seen Lee's in more of a hopping state. Granted, they were more dance oriented shows and Franz is more rock. But come on. I feel like Toronto's lost the meaning of rocking out! We need to get it back! Especially if you've been talking about the show for weeks. Even more especially for the fact that they played Lee's, not the Sound Academy or even Kool Haus.<br /><br />Even so, last night it was clear how Franz takes dance beats and bass beats that can be used in any pop or electronic song, but they incorporate it into rock. This is amazing.<br /><br />In October, front man Alex Kapranos explained their upcoming album Tonight: Franz Ferdinand, out next year. (This tour was actually a pre-album one, but they only really played maybe 3 or 4 new songs, they sound awesome though.) Here's what he said:<br /><br />It's "music of the night: to fling yourself around your room to as you psyche yourself for a night of hedonism, for the dance-floor, flirtation, for your desolate heart-stop, for losing it and loving losing it, for the chemical surge in your bloodstream."<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Watch "The Fallen"<br /><br /></span><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/c7SIMEqDUwk&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/c7SIMEqDUwk&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><br />So, for the love of god Toronto, by the time Franz Ferdinand come back, you better be ready to dance.<br /><br />Let's not forget... the band itself was fantastic. I was thinking Kapranos was a little awkward (I dont think he wears the leather jacket and pants the way a video costume design person must have told him he did back in 2004) and his voice could have used a little work, until 45 minutes in the set he whipped out his inhaler. Guitarist Nick McCarthy was obviously doing most of the work as he ran between guitar & keyboards, and the sometimes Big Foot-esque, sometimes pummel through the tunnel beat relationship between Bob Hardy & Paul Thompson was top notch.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Watch "Take Me Out"<br /><br /></span><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gBHCdu1zFlg&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gBHCdu1zFlg&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><br />Also, coming out of that night, I have rekindled my love for [now] Toronto-based band Born Ruffians. If you're one to get past Luke LaLonde's vocals, you'll find them amazing as well... brains lie behind tracks like "Hedonistic Me," "Coldness Hot," "Hummingbird," and "Badonkadonkey."Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-647160766069435232008-12-04T12:04:00.007-05:002008-12-04T12:42:25.934-05:00newsies<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;">Hey! There are new things on RoundLetters if you haven't noticed yet!<br /></span></div><br />Take part in my weekly poll. This week -- <span style="font-weight: bold;">who will you be leaving off of your 2008 best of list?</span><br /><br />Check out a number of <span style="font-weight: bold;">live shows</span> in Toronto via my YouTube channel stream, but you can also head on over to the site itself right <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/jessml22">here</a>.<br /><br />Twitter's been on here a while, but if you haven't yet, follow me <a href="http://twitter.com/comfortinwords">here</a>.<br /><br />I just updated my links -- many new friend blogs to creep!<br /><br />Have something you want to tell me? Well now you can keep it between us if you want.<br />Contact Jess at<span style="font-weight: bold;"> <a href="mailto:roundletters.gmail.com">ROUNDLETTERS.GMAIL.COM</a>.</span><br /><br />Soon to come themed posts: <span style="font-style: italic;">Take A Look</span> (well, first one is below this post) and twice weekly <span style="font-style: italic;">Reads from My RSS</span>. <span style="font-style: italic;">BestFirsts</span> will continue. And the creative process isn't over yet!<br /><br />Let me know if there's something cool you think I should be updating on, take the new email address for a spin.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7980498689609323964.post-21928661117385457692008-12-04T11:44:00.004-05:002008-12-04T12:04:24.960-05:00Take a LookSo remember that beautiful woman I mentioned in my last post that was singing when Sam Roberts walked past me at my local pub?<br /><br />Her name is Romney Getty.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/STgLO-fXw_I/AAAAAAAAAJw/edyRGkhT73o/s1600-h/l_0aa5f89ce34c243c62d7c315fd8629e2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 222px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S1DpinBMoLA/STgLO-fXw_I/AAAAAAAAAJw/edyRGkhT73o/s320/l_0aa5f89ce34c243c62d7c315fd8629e2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275979315385189362" border="0" /></a><br /></div>She's a local too, except she's long distance.<br /><br />Checking out her <a href="http://www.myspace.com/romneygetty">MySpace</a>, her music doesn't exactly sound like what I remember from Tuesday night, but it's still enjoyable. While her guitar leans like a teeter-totter from country to folk, her deep voice never falls off. It's warm; it's the accompaniment to a hot chocolate by the fireplace in your cabin.<br /><br />If you get a chance, check her out live. I guarantee you'll like it even more than just listening to her tracks.<br /><br />For a twang party -- listen to "<a href="http://www.romneygetty.com/audio/aintnomistake.mp3">Ain't No Mistake</a>"<br /><br />My favourite song though is "All Along," for it's one-two punches of lazy guitar spirit. It can be heard on her MySpace.<br /><br />Romney's album, Ramblin' Girl is available now. iTunes and everything!<br /><br />Check her out here:<br />Dec. 16 -- J.D.'s -- Collingwood, Ont.<br />Dec. 22 -- The Hess -- Hamilton, Ont.<br />Dec. 27 -- Craigleith Ski Club -- Craigleighth, Ont.<br />Jan. 3 -- Alpine Ski Club -- Thornbury, Ont.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11728473879734192074noreply@blogger.com0