My buddy Jake passed on a tip to check this band. They're from Seattle and are pretty rad. This song is on the chill side of their spectrum... they get a bit louder - not Slayer loud, but louder than this. But today this one feels like the one to post.
Here are a couple takeaway-style performances:
Oh by the way, check their website for a free download of the track! "Well, I don't want to die anymore
This Christmas tune is a pretty tough one to pull off properly, but Josh Groban is not half bad at it. My little brother insisted I consider Il Divo's version as well - the quartet definitely have pipes to pull this off, as does Groban. Both artists treat the song with respect - not showboating, just hitting the melody smoothly and sweetly, as it was intended (I have the same complaints when people embellish too much on the Star Spangled Banner). Il Divo does have the benefit of harmonic ability, which Groban of course lacks as a solo artist... but ultimately, both versions pass my rigorous critiquing. Enjoy, and Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Joyful Festivus, and all that jazz!
Here's a beautiful track from a group who are no longer together. The subdued string section is woven together with the guitar for a tapestry to backdrop the powerful lyrics. The intensity of the longing to find meaning in life, and find "home", is staggering. Probably you've had times when you felt that way; I know I have. There's a lot about the world that is depressing, and even the masterpieces (man-made, like cathedrals, or natural) are prone to decay into entropy. Yet, the beauty of these things gives us hope, and a desire to preserve the existing wonders of the world, and perhaps to create some new ones.
There are probably ties to human relationships here as well - home doesn't have to be a a physical location; sometimes it's finding the right group of people who make you feel comfortable and loved.
This unofficial fan-made video has some starkly contrasting visuals:
Here's a pretty awesome song, with beautiful piano and lyrics that are deep and layered. It's a departure from the other Regina Spektor songs I've posted earlier this year, but it's an example of her range and talent - she can do upbeat poppy songs, and then bring you to tears with a tune like this.
I don't know exactly what this one is about. According to the internets, it was inspired by a friend who was battling cancer ("not much hair left on his head..."), but it also has some obvious Biblical references and themes of love. I think it's intentionally weaving all of these concepts together, and leaving some room for interpretation...
"Beneath the stars came falling on our heads But they're just old light, they're just old light..."
My good friends played this tonight at Cornerstone, and it's a great song, so here it is, for your listening pleasure. Sufjan takes a classic hymn and puts a contemporary, folksy spin on it, while infusing it with his emotive vocals. Stevens is probably an enigma in the eyes of many with faith, as some of his other songs aren't necessarily "Christian", and he even *gasp* swears in some of them! I find his lyrics to be a journey of discovery, of questioning, and seeking truth. I won't get too deep into that right now, but would love to discuss it further with anyone else who finds it intriguing.
Anyway, on to the song:
"Here I raise my Ebenezer hither by Thy help I've come and I hope, by Thy good pleasure, safely to arrive at home..."
