ETC #49 "Up Through the Ashes"

Song: "Up Through the Ashes" ~ Artist: Kamelot

~ http://youtu.be/OG4FjG81h6w ~

Comments:  Happy Thursday, everyone!  I have been a musical recluse recently, however, I did decide today that some metal would be a good way to keep my mind occupied from the insanity that has been this week.  The songs that I wanted to use have all been taken by fellow blogger, Christopher. While I wasn't thrilled with this it did give me a reason to listen to some of their music with which I'm not so familiar.  The song that caught my eye was this one (obviously).  It has a soothing, beautiful instrumental to start and then turns into the typical, powerful metal.  Turns out this is also a great motivating song for running.  I wish I had more to say about this song, but happy listening!

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[Secret Sounds] ~ Day One - Lunar Orbit

Track: Lunar Orbit
Artist: Day One
Download: FREE
Nowadays, many EDM producers like to say they "press buttons and make music." Some of them make music, while others make art. One of these artists is the underappreciated Day One, currently a student at Oxford University. His music reflects inspiration, careful thought, and a profound mastery of music theory.

The tune Lunar Orbit is a gentle giant, with its graceful melodies and big bass. The arpeggiation builds on harmony line, setting the stage for the piano melody. Day One works up to the drop with subtlely, like a swell, without any blaring chromatic rises or rapid percussion. After the drop, the tune glides seamlessly from section to section. The layers weave in and out over the wobbling bass--yet never in interference--creating a beautiful and hypnotizing ambiance. Slowly, the other layers drop out leaving only the piano, as the track ends on a non-I chord, giving the listener pause and striking the sense of longing that the piece gives. Hats off to Day One for a poignant and captivating song!
(The visualization in the video is pretty trippy too, also in a subtle way.)

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ETC #48 "Rainy Season and Everybody..."

Song: "Rainy Season" ~ Artist: Hunter Hayes

~ http://youtu.be/HvNJYBBOzQc ~

Comments: Happy Two Timing Tuesday, folks!  So I guess that when I do these double songs that I am going to use the same artist on both.  What I did tell myself is that since it's the same artist I won't be using one of his/her singles.  This artist is country in origin, but he has made it onto the pop stations as well, which for me is exciting.  He has a lot of potential and definitely not a one hit wonder.  His self-titled album has been on loop for the last couple of days for me because I love each of the songs. It has been brilliant in the way of helping me get through my most recent breakup and while that's probably not an influence for you here's what probably is: the tone in his voice is beautiful, the relaxing guitar, and a rhythm in the songs that either make you dance or could rock you to sleep.  He has control over his vocals and I did a little listening to him live and he still sounds decent!  That's a deal breaker for me typically.  This first song has a jazzy, calming beat to it.  I picked it because I feel that it shows off his vocals; it's not only his tone, but his range as well.  

Song: "Everbody's Got Somebody But Me" ~ Artist: Hunter Hayes

~ http://youtu.be/gSYtC5W-m28 ~

Comments: I couldn't decide what fast song of his to share, so I picked this one. I feel that it's one that everyone can relate to and it has a catchy tune. I have to admit that this has been stuck in my head and I may or may not have been snapping my fingers or openly dancing to this in the car. The song is short, contagious, and the lyrics might even make you laugh. If you're into country music, I highly recommend that you look up his album if you haven't already.  If you want to see him rock the electric guitar, sing live, or just want another song to hear of his take a look at "Faith to Fall Back On". (Sorry the version doesn't have better quality.)  Happy listening!

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Announcement

Hey folks, Chris here. Unfortunately  I don't have an entry for you guys today. In fact, I'm actually here to say that I'm taking a few days off. I can think of one week I've taken off since Stuck In My Skull began, and after writing the vast majority of the 373 Stuck In My Skulls, I need a few days to relax, recenter myself, and make sure that this remains a passion and not a chore. Don't worry, I'll be back soon -- a week at the latest -- and Miriah and Relinquish will still be publishing those tunes you love to hear. Have fun!

Derp -- I posted this today... to our Wordpress. No, that's just me being silly. Stay with us at our blogger site!

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[Secret Sounds] ~ Vexare - The Clockmaker

Track: The Clockmaker
Artist: Vexare
Download: iTunes
I'm writing about Vexare today in honor of his recent 17th birthday. That's right, this young producer just turned only 17. Despite his young age, he already has a style that all his own, with the typical grittiness of dubstep but salient melodies and certain chaos that both perplexes and enchants.

The Clockmaker is especially a melodic gem, with a line so lyrical, yet it would confound any vocalist. The quiet opening of ambient crackles, bird chirps and piano chords draw you in before Vexare brings in the 3rd-beat kick and lays it on heavy. As the drop hits, the melody takes an unexpected jump up and never relents even through the filth. The syncopation in the percussion, as well as the bass shudders, make the chorus even more interesting, and the momentary pause for the clock ticks really brings the piece together, giving it that like extra bump. (In an earlier version, the clock ticks had not yet been incorporated, and the difference is profound.) In the second drop, Vexare varies the melody, letting it really sing out through the chaos. Yet, despite the chaotic sound, one can tell that thought and care was put into every note and beat, with expert mastering. The coda brings some light voice sounds backing and a slow minor descent as the piano chords get lower and lower. This track (and the whole EP) is a prime indicator of Vexare potential (and ability) as a producer, and is unforgettable.

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Stuck In My Skull 373 -- "How You Like Me Now?"

Song: "How You Like Me Now?" || Artist: The Heavy || http://youtu.be/sVzvRsl4rEM ||

Comments: Happy Friday, folks! First of all, I would like to thank Amanda for telling me about this band. I would like to thank for Macauley for reminding me about this band. And I would really really really like to thank Amanda for not going insane because I always manage to forget about bands she's told me about. I'm sorry!
Song. What's not to love about this song? The instrumentation is fantastic, with those horns that I've been digging lately (since yesterday). The guitars on this track are just right, complementing the vocals, and the thing they do (or is it the keyboards?) on the third beat is just fantastic. The drumming seals the deal with that groove-able beat that just makes you move. And the vocals? Love 'em. Enjoy!

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ETC #47 "The Diary of Jane"

Song: "The Diary of Jane" ~ Artist: Breaking Benjamin

~ http://youtu.be/DWaB4PXCwFU ~

Comments: Hey, everyone. Happy Friday. I was listening to the awesome radio here at school and realized that I have had a serious lack of rock and metal music in my life recently. So I went out and picked this group for today.  This song in particular is what got me to listen to more of this group and so I thank this song immensely for it. I wish I had more to say here, but I haven't listened enough to really speak for this band other than I love the sound.  (Also, that I really need to obtain more of their CDs.)  Happy listening!

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Stuck In My Skull 372 -- "Boss Taurus"

Song: "Boss Taurus" || Artitst: Mucca Pazza || http://youtu.be/G3sWewh_UwM ||

Comments: Thanks to Alex D-B for introducing me to this track. This song is really interesting -- it's got a heavy brass line in the style of a marching band with fitting instrumentation, and then some random guitar action that actually flows really well with the song. It's chaos incarnate, and I just can't get enough. I haven't been this in love with a brass sound since I was introduced to Streetlight Manifesto -- check it out, and enjoy! (By the way... the video is so random it's hilarious.)
Note: I checked this band on wikipedia:

Mucca Pazza is a 30 piece self-described "circus punk marching band" based in Chicago. The band, whose name comes from the Italian for "crazy cow" which is also a name for the Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, has been performing in and around the Chicago area for over seven years. Their repertoire ranges from Balkan-brass to covers of 60's television show themes as well as themes from Shostakovich and Bartok. They have performed nationally at many well known venues and concerts including McCarren Park Pool, True/False Film Festival,Looptopia, Lollapalooza, Rothbury Music Festival, Tour de Fat, Theatre Bizarre, and were featured on Late Night with Conan O'Brien in 2006.

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ETC #46 "Every Storm"

Song: "Every Storm" (Runs Out of Rain) ~ Artist: Gary Allan
~ http://youtu.be/1q3LEadIk3w ~

Comments: Heeeeey there!  It's Thursday and how I wish it was Tuesday again, because I have so many songs I wanted to share today and at least on Tuesdays there are two. Anyway...this is a song that I have been meaning to share for a while and keep forgetting about. It has been stuck in my head on numerous occasions and there's just something about the chorus that I love. The main theme is a bit trite, but there's still something about this beat that I can't get out of my head.  Listening to the words alone, it is something that (at least for me) can definitely bring on the tears, but additionally some motivation to march on.  The video was good, but not terribly creative while I was watching. However, come to find out the main lady is actually hurting because her husband, lover, etc is away at war. That, my friends, is what I like about this video the most.  As for Gary Allan, his songs are usually hit or miss with me and this one is definitely a hit (then again, there was only one song that I didn't like of his thus far).  If you're looking for more of his songs take a look at the song "Watching Airplanes".  Happy listening!

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[Secret Sounds] ~ Seven Lions - Days to Come feat. Fiora (Culture Code Remix)

Track: Days to Come ft. Fiora (Culture Code Remix)
Artist: Seven Lions
Download: FREE

    This song is the very definition of "stuck in my skull." In my veins. In my bones. This song infiltrated my existence two months ago and has not let up. This song has echoed in my sleep. This song has changed my worldview, struggled through trials with me, and has influenced my life decisions.
    This song is Days to Come by Seven Lions, and the especially beautiful remix by Culture Code. This track served as the subject of a recent Beatport contest; such contests are trending because they are an excellent way to promote both the original tune and new artists who work hard to really show their stuff in the remix contest. Culture Code is one such duo who have tried their hands at several remix contests to build a fanbase before producing their own tracks; their first original was released this month. Kudos to both Seven Lions (with Fiora) and Culture Code for the transcendence of this track.
    The tune is both ethereal and structured. Fiora's soprano vocals in the heart-rending harmony splits never overpower throughout the song, but rather give an almost ghostlike feeling. Later, piano chords usher in the muffled vocals, which gradually come into focus as if waking from a dream. This builds to a huge drop which doesn't let you smack into the ground, but rather gives you a parachute as you float through the endless blue sky of the melody. The masterful work with the reverb and mixing of the vocal lines carries the song from start to finish through the buildup, the turns, and the climax. The traditional 120BPM heartbeat of dubstep serves as palatable structure for sustained strings and vocals--the rolling vicissitudes of this raw, human sound.
Quietly, I'll keep you close to me...
Quietly, I can feel you in my dreaming...

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Stuck In My Skull 371 -- "Rabiosa"

Song: "Rabiosa" || Artist: Shakira || http://youtu.be/8OO1pOqRJkA [Spanish] http://youtu.be/a5irTX82olg [English] ||

Comments: Hello, all. Sorry about my lack of a post yesterday. Things got a little... hectic. Anyway. Shakira is now a mother, and we are pleased to celebrate the birth of her daughter Milan yesterday. To celebrate, I decided to do a Shakira song for today. I'm actually really surprised I haven't used this previously. Like most of Shakira's hits, this song has both an English version (in this instance, featuring Pitbull, of all people) and a Spanish version (featuring El Cata, which I greatly prefer). So, I'm curious. Since this song is the same beat, Latin-inspired rhythm instrumentation and tune, and same lead vocalist across both English and Spanish versions, which version do you prefer?

Edit: Whooops, sorry about that, and forgive my cultural assumptions. Shakira had a son, not a daughter. My bad!

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ETC #45 "Silencio" and "Vuelvo a ti"

Hey, folks! I hope your week is off to a good start. As Christopher mentioned yesterday, I am doing a new schedule: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.  On Tuesdays I am going to be bringing you multiple songs (probably two) rather than just one. Why? Because, why not?  I'm calling it Two Timing Tuesday as I will be bringing you double the number of songs.  Now, whether or not this is going to be a consist theme, artist, etc. has yet to be determined. For right now, it is not going to be anything set, but that may change and if it does I will let you know.
Right, so now to get to today's blog.  I did say that I was going to bring around some variety for today's post. Even though this is still pop music I am delivering some Spanish.

Song: "Silencio" ~ Artist: David Bisbal 

~ http://youtu.be/SVoNefPBoL0 ~

Comments: Ah, David.  How we love, thee.  I went on a binge with this artist the other night so you're getting a double dose of him today. This song was something that I came across when I first started listening to Sr. Bisbal. It was one that became a favourite and was stuck in my head frequently.  This artist is well known in Spain and so don't be surprised if you don't know who he is. Although, rumour has it that he did a song with Miley Cyrus. Anyhow, this song is wonderful, catchy, and so is the video.  I like what he did with the background actions; they are making no noise even when they should (hence the name of the song "Silence").  Just like love, these actions are loud and powerful and if you read the lyrics this is what is killing him.  The chorus reads: silence/ eternal and deaf just like the memory of love that you gave me/ silence, so big, so empty, and dead/ as it burns this pain in my body/ as this silent love hurts.  Here are the full lyrics. 

Song: "Vuelvo a ti" ~ Artist: David Bisbal Ft. Chenoa ~ http://youtu.be/GGYEPyGyUhY ~

Comments: Here's another song from David. I don't have too much to say about this one. However, it does show off his vocals in more of a ballad form then a lot of his other songs.  Chenoa I haven't heard much from, but she also does a fantastic job with her voice in this song.  The chorus here reads: Through the desire that never ended/ through that time that was for two/ I go back to you, dying for your love/ by the illusion that still beats between you and I/ your bitterness is lost in the innocence/ I return to you, dying for your love/ dying for your love.  Here are the full lyrics.  Happy listening!

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[Secret Sounds] ~ Banzai Kitten - Anymore Today

Track: Anymore Today
Artist: Banzai Kitten
Download: FREE [Soundcloud]

Greetings! Relinquish here. It's a pleasure to be aboard Stuck in My Skull now. This post will be two-pronged: first, the featured song, and second, and introductory note about this column, Secret Sounds.

Banzai Kitten, a four-piece rock outfit based in Lima (Peru), gets its name from the urban legend of kittens grown in jars by some crazy Japanese folks. Recently, this band been cooking up new jams on some upgraded instruments, including bassist Jorge Bayona's electric upright. The tune Anymore Today opens with a great swing guitar riff, catchy and easily hummable. Then enter the crisp vocals of the band's frontman, Alvaro Bayona. The seamless songwriting glides from chord to chord, expertly guided by the bass. A splash of accordion in the chorus rounds out the texture, and later it coasts into violin line and a smooth sax solo in the bridge, both performed by Alvaro. The track closes the same way it started, with that crooning guitar riff. With interesting instrumentation, spot-on vocals, and agreeable chord progression, this tune by Banzai Kitten is really a treat for the ears.

[A note about Secret Sounds: This column will focus on bands, producers, and artists who haven't yet experienced their big breakthrough. Many of these musicians have built from the ground up and rely on the power of the internet to disseminate their beats. Therefore, I would like to provide some external links to the artists, which can be found in the artist name, embedded song, and sometimes the download. If you enjoy the tune, a Facebook like, Youtube subcription, or even a simple share could change their careers! (Especially if you can't afford to buy the track.) If you connect with the song, I hope you can also connect with the artist in some way. To facilitate this, I'll try my best to include cool facts about the artist the track. Thanks!]

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Stuck In My Skull 370 -- "White" and Announcements!

Song: "White" || Artist: Nocolor || https://soundcloud.com/housemusic/white-by-nocolor-music/ ||


Comments: Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, welcome back to Stuck In My Skull on Blogger! Today is a huge day for all of us, so let's get some announcements out of the way before we get any farther.
First and most obvious, we are now back on Blogger, and thrilled to be here!
Second, Blogger might look a tad different than when we left. Actually, it should look majorly different. Because I don't know when to quit and give up, my quest for the ultimate template and site design lead me to teach myself some rudimentary HTML, get my hands on a theme I sort of liked (check the attribution at the bottom of the page), and rip that sucker to shreds. We're talking at least eight hours spent keyboard-deep in some seriously massive code that I more-or-less understand, editing everything. What did I learn? Weird designs for Blogger templates are hard to find, and I don't want to be a webmaster. But none of that matters -- we are all very happy to be back, and very happy to have you back with us!
Third, "we" now is a little differnet. Stuck In My Skull is thrilled to welcome new author Laura to the party! Amanda has decided to take a break from blogging for a bit, but this hiatus is only temporary -- our tagline (that's different too!) says four bloggers, and means it!
Fourth, our schedules have shifted around a bit! I'm still posting each weekday, but Miriah has changed her days to Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday so Laura can post Monday and Wednesday. Miriah tells me she plans to do something interesting on one of her days, so keep an eye (and ear) open!
Lastly, look up. That's no YouTube video! When Laura joined us, one of the first thing she asked me was 'Can we embed Soundcloud?' and it turns out, yes, we can!

And on that note, let's talk about Soundcloud so prettily embedded in this post. (Did you notice it says download?) I have never heard of Nocolor, and that really annoys me, because this song is fantastic. "White" is an excellent album with a good beat, a catchy melody, and some fantastic arrangement. My foot is tapping as I write this, because it just can't resist this infectious beat. And I love the piano bit at about 50 seconds in and the synth that follows it. I just can't get enough of this track. Enjoy!

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Guess What?

We're Baaaaaaaaaaack!

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Stuck In My Skull 369 -- "Roses"

Song: "Roses" || Artist: Outkast || http://youtu.be/f9lkxq7tGuY ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/f9lkxq7tGuY]

Comments: Oh, this song. I have to thank Amanda here for showing me this song originally. While Outkast generally isn't my kind of sound, I admit that this song is tongue-in-cheek lyrical excellence with a catchy beat to back it up. I highly recommend it. Enjoy, and enjoy the weekend!
Remember: On Monday, we'll be at stuckinmyskull.blogspot.com!

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ETC #45 "Candyman"

Song: "Candyman"
Artist: Christina Aguilera
Link: http://youtu.be/-ScjucUV8v0

 [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ScjucUV8v0&w=420&h=315]

Comments: HAPPY FRIDAY!  I hope that you all have had a good week.  I originally had a Spanish song planned for today, but my friend and I were having a discussion at dinner that somehow led to Christina Aguilera and now I can't get this song out of my head.  This is an old one from Ms. Aguilera, but all too catchy.  It also does a fantastic job at showing off the strength in her voice. I have to say even if her lyrics aren't always clean her voice is.  She is one artist that I will always admire for her vocals.  I will provide a change up of genre on Monday, folks.  Until then, happy listening!  

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AMANDA-- "CARAMELLDANSEN" by CARAMELL

Hey all! It's the first week back at school and I'm already swamped with homework, so please forgive my lateness. I don't have much to say today except I enjoy this song WAY more than I probably should. This version is entirely in Swedish, and as Chris could tell you, vastly superior to the English one. It's right up there with songs like "Gangnam Style" that always manage to get stuck in my head despite the fact that I have no idea what the artist is saying. Several years ago, "Caramelldansen" became an internet sensation when an animation featuring characters from a Japanese novel dancing appeared on 4chan. Don't bother analyzing the song  for some deeper meaning because you won't find any; it's just a lot of fun. Seeing as how I'm going to my first anime convention this weekend it seemed appropriate to share. Enjoy!

[youtube=http://youtu.be/bZ1E_9ZncmQ]

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Stuck In My Skull 368 -- "Spontaneous Me"

Song: "Spontaneous Me" || Artist: Lindsey Stirling || http://youtu.be/pRPOztxXWlQ ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/pRPOztxXWlQ]

Comments: Happy Thursday! Two more days until the weekend! What are you doing this weekend? I have no idea what I'm doing, so I suspect I'll just be... spontaneous. I'm sorry, I just couldn't resist the set-up. Anywho, "Spontaneous Me" is a lovely track -- a bright, vibrant, cheerful violin full of vintage Lindsey Stirling spirit layered on top of some bass that makes me headphones pulse in just the right way to get me moving. Lindsey Stirling is simply amazing. While this song is not nearly as well known has her infamous 'dubstep violin' hits "Elements" and "Crystallize," "Spontaneous Me" is Lindsey Stirling doing what she loves to do -- rock us.

Remember: On Monday we'll be back at stuckinmyskull.blogspot.com!

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Stuck In My Skull 367 -- "Default"

Song: "Default" || Artist: Django Django || http://youtu.be/DDjpOrlfh0Y ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/DDjpOrlfh0Y]

Comments: Props to Alex D-B for tossing me this little ditty, and oh, is it interesting. I haven't heard a sound like this before, and I'm really liking it. It sounds eclectic and almost acoustic, which makes no sense, because I know full well this isn't acoustic, but that's what it reminds me of. The video is artistic in the sense of "look at all that paint!" and I love it too. In short, I love everything about this song, so thanks to Alex! Now go listen!

 

Remember: We're moving to stuckinmyskull.blogspot.com on Monday! Update your bookmarks!

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ETC #44 "Cuckoo"

Song: "Cuckoo"
Artist: Adam Lambert
Link: http://youtu.be/yII4mZbwWAU

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yII4mZbwWAU]

Comments: Hey, guys. I'm sorry to say I don't have anything to say today. I've been a bit of a recluse musically the last few days because life is being...well, life.  This song, however, has still managed to keep itself stuck in my head.  It's more of one I would want to provide on a Friday to get you pumped for the weekend, but that's not crucial.  Here it is and happy listening.

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AMANDA--"GEEK U.S.A" by THE SMASHING PUMPKINS

Hey readers. Over break, I had A LOT of free time at my disposal and, as you could probably guess, I spent much of it listening to music. One of the better discoveries I made (apart from anything from the Les Miserables soundtrack) was the Smashing Pumpkins' second album Siamese Dream. I found it in its entirety online and listened to it from beginning to end. The experience was highly enjoyable. As a self-proclaimed Pumpkins' fan, I have no excuse for not seeking out this record before. Anyway, this track caught my attention right away.First of all, I myself have geeky tendencies and many geeks for friends so I appreciated the name. To my ears,  it sounds more metal than some of their other songs, most notably the excellent performances on guitar and drums. The overall progression and pacing are interesting as well. Enjoy!

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Stuck In My Skull 366 -- "I Want You, But I Don't Need You"

Song: "I Want You, But I Don't Need You" || Artist: Momus || http://youtu.be/w9NGz31TaPE ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/w9NGz31TaPE]

Comments: I found this song by way of a cover done by Amanda Palmer, that my friend Amanda C. showed me. Thanks, Amanda! This song is excellent. Witty, cheerful, and still deep enough to hit me where it counts, I love this song. Its wordplay is bright and well-done, and the lyrics are so depressing, but the song is so good! Enjoy!

 

Remember, as of Monday, we will be back at stuckinmyskull.blogspot.com. Update your bookmarks!

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Stuck In My Skull 365 -- "Summit" and Announcement!

Song: "Summit" || Artist: Skrillex feat. Ellie Goulding || http://youtu.be/-e_3Cg9GZFU ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/-e_3Cg9GZFU]

Comments: Happy Monday, everyone! To kick off the week, how about some old Skrillex, recently improved with the addition of a new video! "Summit" is very chill, and not nearly so aggressive as most of the tracks Skrillex produces. The touch of Ellie Goulding makes this already decent track downright pretty. This song is calming, makes me smile, and is definitely worth a listen.

Announcement: Do you know what else makes me smile? This announcement! In one week -- starting Monday, January 21 -- Stuck In My Skull is moving back to blogger! That's right, we are abandoning Wordpress and moving back to stuckinmyskull.blogspot.com! Set your bookmarks now, folks, because SIMS is going back to Blogger!

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ETC #43 "Just Give Me a Reason"

Song: "Just Give Me a Reason"
Artist: P!nk Ft. Nate Reuss
Link: http://youtu.be/SJy2fBF7Das

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJy2fBF7Das]

Comments:  Happy Monday, all.  I am bringing a little bit of P!nk into the light today because as I have received a lot of music for Christmas and her CD, The Truth About Love, was one of them.  This song is a single off her album that hasn't hit radio yet, and still has less than 100k in the way of views on Youtube, so you'll be ahead of the game on this one!   Furthermore, I am sharing this because it does a couple of things that I really like; one is that it shows of Pink's voice a little bit more than some other songs.  Wiki points out that it is more of a conversation than just a single perspective.  As for the video, the couple is absolutely adorable (which is beside the point) but, I do like that the video was put in the perspective of the male instead of a female.  Granted, she has her fair share in the video as well, but we get to see his point of view and him crying instead of the stereotypical girl view.  If you all get a chance to listen to her CD I highly recommend it.  She has some great up beat songs as well as some of her usual heart felt songs like this one.  And for those of you like Eminem, he makes an appearance in her duet "Here Comes the Weekend".   Happy listening!

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Stuck In My Skull 364 -- "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together"

Song: "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" || Artist: Taylor Swift || http://youtu.be/WA4iX5D9Z64 ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/WA4iX5D9Z64]

Comments: I have to admit, I'm not really a huge fan of Taylor Swift. Frankly, I think she's over-hyped and under-performs, and she wears the same 'shocked' face when people show up to her concerts today as she did years ago. With that being said, I cannot get this song out of my head. It's so catchy, and I just can't get rid of it. So, if any of you readers have recently had a breakup, here you go -- this song will probably be on your mind longer than your ex. Enjoy!

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ETC #42 "Stay"

Song: "Stay"
Artist: Florida Georgia Line
Link: http://youtu.be/GJoeOi_DlZE

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJoeOi_DlZE]

Comments: HAPPY FRIDAY!  I'm sorry to say that this entry is going to be a bit short as I'm quite sleep deprived.  This song was brought to me via  a music app that I found.  I fell in love with it and even though it's not anything extraordinary in it's sound or rhythm I found the lyrics to be wonderful.  Just like the lyrics say if I could write you a love song and sing it to you everyday, I would if it would make you stay.  This duo is similar to Love and Theft which has been posted here on the blog previously.  However, this couple of men are newer to the scene than the first.  Both are incredibly similar in sound.   This song in particular is not a single off of their new album Here's to the Good Times that was released back at the beginning of December, but it's still good. There two singles, "Cruise" and "Here's to the Good Times" are both decent though I have to admit that I'm bias to the first one.  Happy listening!

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AMANDA--"WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS" by JOE COCKER

Hey folks. This is an EXCELLENT cover of the Beatles' song "With a Little Help From My Friends" by the wonderful Joe Cocker. The blues and rock musician is famous for his covers, particularly of the Beatles' music. Wikipedia describes his version of  the song as "a radical re-establishment of the original" and that is accurate to the t. Cocker's gritty voice and singing style do the song justice.  It isn't easy outdoing one of the most talented and beloved bands of all time, but with the help of a few back up singers, an organ, some drums, and Jimmy Page on guitar, I'd say Cocker comes damn close. It's incredibly soulful and moves me in a way the original just doesn't, reminding me why I love rock music so much. Enjoy!

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Stuck In My Skull 363 -- "Kids"

Song: "Kids" || Artist: MGMT || http://youtu.be/fe4EK4HSPkI ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/fe4EK4HSPkI]

Comments: Well, I'm breaking the 'all new stuff' streak. "Kids" is definitely not a new song, but boy is it a good one. It's catchy as all heck, and somehow comes out sounding cheerful despite the odd-at-best content. Just as a heads up, the video to this song is just plain weird, and gets a tad creepy after awhile. I suppose it's a great "this is your brain on drugs" PSA...

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Stuck In My Skull 362 -- "Bad Wings"

Song: "Bad Wings" || Artist: The Glitch Mob || http://youtu.be/r6AN1-CTUXM ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/r6AN1-CTUXM]

Comments: Continuing on the theme of 'Things I Got Over The Holidays,' The Glitch Mob! I have long expressed my affection for this insane trio of musicians, but this song takes it to blistering new heights. I had it stuck in my head the other day, and I swear it was so loud! I felt this song in my soul. The crisp kick drum in my ears, the thrum of the bass deep in my chest, the ethereal voice and the piano melody dancing about my soul, everything. I didn't hear this song, I felt this song. I lived this song. This song reminds me why music is so beautiful. Enjoy!

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ETC #41 "Renegade"

Song: "Renegade"
Artist: Styx
Link: http://youtu.be/rkGQGz7dvTs

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkGQGz7dvTs]

Comments: Hey there listeners.  Today, I am bringing a little bit of rock into your Wednesday.   To quote Maroon 5 "One more stupid love song I'll be sick," and this was a song that caught my attention earlier this week. The song starts out a bit slow, but there is nothing sad and depressing about this song. The Styx managed to pull off a song about a man running for his life and telling it all to his mother without it being, how do I put it...melancholy?  Anyhow, the guitar is amazing in this song and coming from this band is to be expected.  I have to admit I did a little background reading on this song, because I don't know much about the Styx.  It was released back and '79 on their album Sing for the Day and is apparently a very successful hit of theirs that I just haven't heard.  Now, the video that I have linked on here is a bit long because it's from one of their performances and includes slightly more than just this song. I picked it because it had pretty decent sound quality and is much more interesting to watch than a lyric video.  Happy listening!

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AMANDA-- "HEROES" by DAVID BOWIE

Hey all! Ever hear a song on the radio or in a film and say to yourself "Wow, that's really something" ? That's exactly what happened to me with "Heroes." I recognized the artist as David Bowie and was instantly taken with the song. It is the title track of Bowie's 1977 album which shares its name. The song is a product of his so-called Berlin period in which he moved to West Berlin and his craft was influenced by the German music scene. The story behind it is beautiful and tragic, a tale of two star-crossed lovers who met at the Berlin Wall. Beyond that, what really stood out to me about the song was the instrumentation. The combination of guitars, percussion and synthesizers creates a very interesting and distinctive sound unlike any I've heard before. A powerful moment comes toward the latter half  as Bowie shouts, almost as if straining to be heard. We see this in the video, which is fairly simplistic;  multiple cameras focus on him as he stands there singing,sounding (and looking) positively gorgeous. For a song about a doomed relationship, "Heroes" doesn't sound overly romantic, sappy, or depressing. I suppose that's what I like about, that it centers on the possibilities or hope of a single day or moment shared with someone rather than lamenting  a loss (or that's my interpretation). Also, today  just happens to be the music icon's sixty-sixth birthday. Happy Birthday Mr. Bowie! Your music has shaped the face of modern music and inspired and delighted millions the world over. We won't soon forget it.  And on that note, enjoy the song!

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Stuck In My Skull 361 -- "My Blood"

Song: "My Blood" || Artist: Ellie Goulding || http://youtu.be/HFatODUR1CE ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/HFatODUR1CE]

Comments: Hello, all! I've been listening to this song quite a bit lately -- since I got the Halcyon album as a gift, I keep listening to it on repeat, and I've decided that this song is worth sharing. Actually, the entire album is worth sharing, but this is the one I ended up picking. It's a little less electronic and a little more folk than I think much of Ellie Goulding's work is, and definitely more so than the songs she releases as singles. It's a nice tune, a deep message, and fairly catchy. Enjoy!

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Stuck In My Skull 360 -- "The Veldt"

Song: "The Veldt" || Artist: Deadmau5 feat. Chris James || http://youtu.be/YSANu-oAHHQ ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/YSANu-oAHHQ]

Comments: Good morning and happy Monday! To start the week off, I figured a nice, cheerful, upbeat song would be in order. Deadmau5 to the rescue! Having recently listened to his newest album (called " > album title goes here < "), I have to give the mau5 some serious props for successfully expanding his sound yet again. He manages to put down some really trance-inspired tracks on the album, such as this one, and even dishes up a rap song. If you get the chance, go take a listen. This track is eight solid minutes of happy and smiles -- enjoy!

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ETC #40 "Remember When"

Song: "Remember When" (Push Rewind)
Artist: Chris Wallace
Link: http://youtu.be/stKHUgIlNSA

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stKHUgIlNSA]

Comments: Happy Monday everyone.  So I saw this song on Facebook recently, and have to say that the tune got stuck in my head.  I have to admit that I am not familiar with him and therefore, not his music either. He was the lead singer of The White Tie Affair and they broke up so he went solo. His first album was released back in September and this is first single off of it. With his new attempted solo career we will be keeping an eye out to see how he does and what his future hits look like.  His voice isn't very distinct, but he does this song well.  This song doesn't have the happiest theme to it, but you wouldn't know it by the high tempo.  Happy listening!

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Stuck In My Skull 359: 90s Week, Part 5 — “Macarena”

90's Week, Part 5 || Song: "Macarena" || Artist: Los del Rio || http://youtu.be/XiBYM6g8Tck ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/XiBYM6g8Tck]

Comments: Aaaaah, I'm late again! I'm sorry! In return, have something incredibly catchy and smile-provoking! Honestly, I had no idea that the Macarena was from the 90s. In all fairness, I never really thought about it, so I don't know when I thought it was from, but I hadn't anticipated finding it on the 90s list. So, as I remember the awesome hair styles and fashions of the 90s, enjoy the song!

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ETC #39 Double Feature! 90's Week

As promised here is the double feature for today!

Song: "Mr. Jones"
Artist: Counting Crows
Link: http://youtu.be/-oqAU5VxFWs

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oqAU5VxFWs]

Comments: This first song is something that I had completely forgot about until I was watching VH1 some time ago.  And I forgot how much I enjoyed this song.  The lyrics are a bit crazy, but the tune is catchy and I can't say that I haven't had this song stuck in my head before.   However, I will admit to not being able to remember majority of the words and I'm sure most people have had those songs stuck in the head where they can remember the beat and rhythm, but can only remember maybe a line or two of the words; this is one of those songs for me.

Song: 3 AM
Artist: Matchbox 20
Link: http://youtu.be/C-Naa1HXeDQ

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-Naa1HXeDQ]

Comments: This second song I bring to you because Matchbox 20 has a new single recently which can also be found on the blog.  I just wanted to remind everyone that these guys have been around for a while.  I forget how much I like this group until I listen to them again.  I don't have much to say here, sorry guys I just really wanted to share this song with you.  Happy listening!

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Stuck In My Skull 358: 90s Week, Part 4 — “One Week"

90's Week, Part 4 || Song: "One Week" || Artist: Barenaked Ladies || http://youtu.be/fC_q9KPczAg ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/fC_q9KPczAg]

Comments: Sorry about this post going up so late, everyone. I really did mean to write this last night, but I have a bad habit of misjudging how long I'm actually going to be awake. So, I have to admit to something -- I really don't know 90's music too well. So, I went and looked up hit songs from the 90s. While I wasn't surprised to have never have heard of most of the songs that came up, there were some that really did surprise me. This song, for example, was one of the songs that I thought was far more recent than 1998, so I'm quite glad that it's old enough to use this week. I like the Barenaked Ladies -- they're an upbeat band that can get a point across and make you smile at the same time. Their songs are never depressing, even the ones with a depressing message. I think the first song by them I ever heard was "If I had $1000000", but the first one that ever really got stuck in my head was "Who Needs Sleep?", which is fantastic. Enjoy!

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AMANDA-- "CRIMINAL" by FIONA APPLE

Hey all. The nineties was a remarkable decade for many reasons, not excluding the fact that me and many of my friends were born. It was an especially great time for indie and alternative rockers or at least up until the end. On that note, I bring you the sultry and talented Fiona Apple. When her first album Tidal debuted, the singer-songwriter was only nineteen years old. The nineties saw the likes of many terrific artists- The Cranberries, Foo Fighters, Radiohead and more-all fierce contenders. I chose this song because it and Fiona Apple have had incredible staying power. Criminal" is her biggest song to date and won her the Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. I've known all the lyrics since I was six and years later they still resonate with me. Apple continues to rock into her thirties and sounds amazing as ever. Her music has no doubt matured as she has. At the height of her success, the teenager proved as gifted as her contemporaries but ever so slightly more controversial, probably due to her age. The music video features a barely clothed Apple in some provocative poses seeking absolution for having wronged a man she once loved (serious stuff-hence NSFW ). Enjoy!

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Stuck In My Skull 357: 90s Week, Part 3 — “U Can't Touch This”

90's Week, Part 3 || Song: "U Can't Touch This" || Artist: MC Hammer || http://youtu.be/otCpCn0l4Wo ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/otCpCn0l4Wo]

Comments: It might be 2013, but it's still the 90's here at Stuck In My Skull! And we're so awesome that you can't touch this. I'm sorry, I just couldn't resist the pun. This song is so original it was the genre setter, and we're still talking about it all these years later. Normally, I like to try to describe the songs I write about, but chances are, you've probably heard it. Go listen again, and enjoy the nostalgia!

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ETC #38 "Achy Breaky Heart" 90's Week

Song: "Achy Breaky Heart"
Artist: Billy Ray Cyrus
Link: http://youtu.be/byQIPdHMpjc

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byQIPdHMpjc]

Comments: Hey all!  I hope you enjoyed your New Years yesterday.  And yes, I am really using this song. I have to admit to the nostalgia that comes along with this one. I am not afraid to admit to my singing and dancing to this song around my grandmother's house as a small child.  Aside from that, this is still Billy Ray's most well known song and where he crossed lines of country and pop music by hitting #4 on the Billboard chart.  Even if you don't like the song please take a second to watch the video and appreciate how very 90s it is.  He's rockin' the mullet, there is something jean everywhere, and there is a woman wearing a bra and a jacket.  The other song that I was going to share with y'all today was "Should've Been A Cowboy" by Toby Keith.  This is another classic country song that I'm sure majority have heard or at least heard referenced at some point and if you haven't the video is hilarious and I encourage its viewing.  A couple of random comments to make to y'all.  First off, be prepared for a double feature on Friday. I'm being terribly indecisive because there is so much great music from this decade and so I'm providing two songs on the next entry.  And the other thing is that I am contemplating going to daily entries and if any of you have a preference please let me know.  Anyhow, happy listening!

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AMANDA-- "YOU GET WHAT YOU GIVE" by NEW RADICALS

Hello all!  Once again another year has passed and we find ourselves a year older. New Years is a time for celebration as well as reflection. Regardless of the year you've had- good or bad- I hope you will take this chance to think back on the positive and give thanks rather dwelling on what could have been. If you're reading this, you're alive and that in itself is something to be extremely grateful for. I can't even remember the last time I made a New Years resolution but its never too late for a fresh start. My goal for 2013 is take more risks, have more patience, and in general  think more of others than myself. That brings me to this song, which has a fantastic and timely message. I've survived the world ending a few times now (it's not saying much but still) so I can tell you this song rings true: you can only get as much as you're willing to give. This song is the New Radicals' biggest hit making them, more or less, a one hit wonder."You Get What You Give " is just a great feel good, don't give up, hopeful kind of song with an excellent music video.  Happy New Year and enjoy!

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Stuck In My Skull 356: 90s Week, Part 2 — “Little Fluffy Clouds”

90's Week, Part 2 || Song: "Little Fluffy Clouds" || Artist: The Orb || http://youtu.be/FHixChYgGRI ||

[youtube http://youtu.be/FHixChYgGRI]

Comments: For those of you who are in timezones where it is 2013, Happy New Years! Thank you to Amanda, who gave me this lovely little song. I keep running into The Orb, and this just cements in my mind that I really need to look more of their stuff up. Also, I had no idea that The Orb was this old! Cool! I love groups with staying power. Enjoy, and happy new year!

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