Yup, I know. I haven't posted anything in too long. I wouldn't say there's nothing going on in my life, it's just... It's hard to find words to describe everything. Anyway, here I am now, back. Why now? I'm (almost) done with school for this semester, I quit my job. I have plenty of time on my hands. I keep saying how bored I am when there's so much to do. So many things that don't appeal on me at all. I'd rather be bored than doing them. Eg. pictures. I have PILES of photos that deserve editing and at least posting somewhere. I was even considering starting a tumblr site, but really, would that make me post regulary? I could of course post random pictures from random times of my life, but it would still require some activity. I'm terrible, I know. Maybe I'll get to it. Fingers crossed.
However, there are things I'd like to share with the world. This year gave us so much good music so far. For instance, the new Los Campesinos! album Romance is Boring. I'm not too massive on the first two albums (but I can't say I don't like them at all), this just seems somehow different. It's like if they've grown up, got older, wiser, darker. Yes, it's good to know a band can use their potential and doesn't get stuck at one point.
Then there's Expo 86 by Wolf Parade. Wolf Parade are an awesome band of awesomeness, nobody can't deny that to me. They played a show in Prague in May, more than a month before this album was released (and even before it leaked - I think) and that was one spectacular show. Even without having listened to their upcoming album I found myself falling in love with those songs. Yes, this album is brilliant.
Another surprisingly fantastic piece is 65daysofstatic's We Were Exploding Anyway. I say surprisingly, because I was expecting a big disappointment. Call me bitter if you wish, but I was afraid of too much of a "techno sound". And how wrong I was. This is a great, massive, melodic album. And it has Robert Smith on it. Can't be bad.
I'm not a big fan of supergroups, but I do have a spot for Apparatjik and their debut We Are Here. Maybe it's the fact this band includes Jonas Bjerre of Mew fame (and as I bet everybody knows, Mew is probably the bestest of the best bands in my book). I'm not much into electronic music either, these men just do it for me. The album is fun, it has a certain spark to it and makes me want to dance. And sing, too, but I daren't.
Oh I'd almost forget the fabulous springy album Jónsi released earlier this year. It's called simply Go and it basically formed my spring (well, those warmer days of this year's spring). Those of you who'd expect a Sigur Rós/Alex & Jónsi-like sound, you would be disappointed. First, Jónsi sings most of the songs in English (which is, I admit, something I didn't expect). Second, it's very cheerful and dancey and it still has a soul. Obviously, it's still a bit odd, in a good-Jónsi-odd way.
I know there are many more good albums I have listened to and liked, but I'll leave those for the "best of 2010" in six months. But I won't just leave you without a mention of railcars. I've been in touch with Aria Jalali who is railcars and I've been honoured to have the chance to listen to a few of his demos. And now, thanks to AMDISCS, everyone can give his cover of Kate Bush's Hounds of Love a listen. It's on a mixtape called Twilight Sausage and you can download it from here. Aside from railcars, it includes many bands and projects that I've never heard of and am sincerely looking forward to hear them. Oh and a free album of remixed railcars songs is available here.
I still need to listen to the new Holy Fuck album (although I got the LP just yesterday), Pulled Apart by Horses and Rolo Tomassi - from the top of my head. There's always so much music to listen to.
As I'm planning on uploading pictures later today, I might also post them here sooner or later.
The Czech One. x
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
On Movement
(I did remember my login and password.Hooray)
Leaving again. [L'herbe est toujours plus verte ailleurs]. I'm only happy when I'm moving, these cars, trains, planes going somewhere. I need to pack, unpack and stick souvenirs on another walls, another stories. [Des nouveaux départs]. And my brain is rushing out for another ideas/ideals, let's reinvent myself, let's write brand new blank pages [Des promesses]. New soundtracks, notes from nowhere [Les mêmes envies]. And she's leaving with me, and he's looking at me, I'm playing hide&seek with Disappointment. I'm still running, we're still thinking. If I stand still I fall, If I stand still. [contourner des fantômes]
The French One.
The French One.
Friday, December 25, 2009
The Second Half of My Life in Albums
I love lists, can not say I like to make them or am good at making them though. I'm pretty sure I've forgotten many shiny treasures. Don't beat me for that. The albums are not in any particular order. Let's say they are all equal. Everything that doesn't deserve to be THE album of the decade, is not listed here. Those without comments are victims of my laziness.
Mew - Frengers (2003)
Although I claim there's no favourite band of mine, I think I can honestly say this is my favourite band. I've loved Mew for a few years now and am over the "OMG I love them I listen to them 24/7 and OMG OMG look, Jonas is a cutie" part. This band is deeply in my heart and this album is my album of the decade. And, put your hand on your heart, No Mo Stories... is the album of 2009. Just so you know.
THE Track: Shespider
...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead - Source Tags & Codes (2002)
Oh Trail of Dead... I've been a fan of this bunch of weirdos for ca. three years, but this year could be called "Petra's year of Trail of Dead" or something. ST&C was there for me when I was at my worst. I'm at the stage when I can not seem to be able to describe it. I just let the energy consume me everytime I give this a listen.
THE Track: Another Morning Stoner
Arcade Fire - Funeral (2004)
Well, this album doesn't need any comment, does it? It's Arcade Fire's Funeral and that's what fuckin' matters.
THE Track: Rebellion (Lies)
Blood Red Shoes - Box of Secrets (2008)
If 2009 was my year of Trail of Dead, 2008 was definitely my year of Blood Red Shoes. I'd listened to their amazing debut almost the whole year (and well, I still do listen to it very often) and I never got tired of it. Sometimes I'm afraid this band is just too perfect to be true. Laura-Mary Carter makes every guitar tone so real you feel like killing yourself if she ever stops playing. Steven's voice sounds so urgent he'd make you cry immediately if he just tried. Together they make something so bloody good it's almost unbelievable.
THE Track: This Is Not for You
Caspian - The Four Trees (2007)
Have I mentioned I'm a post-rock girl? Haven't? Well, now you know. And ever since those fellas almost succeeded at blowing my head off last year, I consider Caspian my favourite post-rock band. As one person said, Caspian is that kind of post-rock that won't let you fall asleep. Or get bored (and I bet there are people who claim post-rock to be boring, that's just bullshit). They are pretty good at head explosions. Just try it. Auntie Petra knows her shit.
THE Track: Crawlspace
HEALTH - Get Color (2009)
It was a hard decision between HEALTH's selftitled album and this year's Get Color. I went for Get Color, because it just sounds better to me now. It's the same noise, the same angelic voice of Jake Duzsik, the same ol' HEALTH in better wrapping paper. Note: Do not base your opinion on this band until you see them live. Trust me.
THE Track: Die Slow
Interpol - Turn on the Bright Lights (2002)
I know I'm obvious. BUT THIS ALBUM IS SO BLOODY GOOD IT HURTS, okay?
THE Track: Stella Was a Diver and She Was Always Down
JJ72 - JJ72 (2000)
Yes, my favourite JJ72's songs are Formulae from I to Sky and a B-side Spires. But as a concept, the self-titled is the best one. Tralala, I'm already tired of making this comments. Just trust me and give it a listen everytime when you feel like listening to good music.
THE Track: Snow
Kasabian - Kasabian (2004)
When I first heard this album, it felt amazing. I can't find another word. This album is just a pure brilliance. Such a shame Empire is average (if not worse) and the newest thing doesn't even deserve to be called an album. But the debut is the shit.
THE Track: Reason is Treason
Khoiba - Nice Traps (2005)
A Czech band, officially still in existence but ever since the singer Ema Brabcová left, it's considered non-existent by their fans. Khoiba is the best Czech band that I know of (my apologies to my pals from the Prostitutes, face the truth) and this beautiful dreamy poppy album is never going to be erased from my memory.
THE Track: Pathetic
Soap&Skin - Lovetune for Vacuum (2009)
This is an album not easy to absorb. This girl is not easily understood. But her screams and whispers will get under your skin. You'll suffer with her, you'll dream with her, you'll love with her.
THE Track: Thanatos
White Rose Movement - Kick (2006)
THE Track: Girls in the Back
Kinski - Down Below It's Chaos (2007)
THE Track: Dayroom at Narita Int'l
Muse - Origin of Symmetry (2001)
THE Track: Micro Cuts
Patrick Wolf - Wind in the Wires (2005)
THE Track: Tristan
Sigur Rós - ( ) (2002)
Special appreciation: Placebo - Sleeping with Ghosts (2003)
Because thanks to this album I am who I am. I do what I do. I like what I like. I'm not a huge Placebo fan now (I haven't even listened to their last album and I barely listen to Meds), but this band changed my life and I think they should be part of this list as they were part of my decade.
Mew - Frengers (2003)
Although I claim there's no favourite band of mine, I think I can honestly say this is my favourite band. I've loved Mew for a few years now and am over the "OMG I love them I listen to them 24/7 and OMG OMG look, Jonas is a cutie" part. This band is deeply in my heart and this album is my album of the decade. And, put your hand on your heart, No Mo Stories... is the album of 2009. Just so you know.
THE Track: Shespider
...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead - Source Tags & Codes (2002)
Oh Trail of Dead... I've been a fan of this bunch of weirdos for ca. three years, but this year could be called "Petra's year of Trail of Dead" or something. ST&C was there for me when I was at my worst. I'm at the stage when I can not seem to be able to describe it. I just let the energy consume me everytime I give this a listen.
THE Track: Another Morning Stoner
Arcade Fire - Funeral (2004)
Well, this album doesn't need any comment, does it? It's Arcade Fire's Funeral and that's what fuckin' matters.
THE Track: Rebellion (Lies)
Blood Red Shoes - Box of Secrets (2008)
If 2009 was my year of Trail of Dead, 2008 was definitely my year of Blood Red Shoes. I'd listened to their amazing debut almost the whole year (and well, I still do listen to it very often) and I never got tired of it. Sometimes I'm afraid this band is just too perfect to be true. Laura-Mary Carter makes every guitar tone so real you feel like killing yourself if she ever stops playing. Steven's voice sounds so urgent he'd make you cry immediately if he just tried. Together they make something so bloody good it's almost unbelievable.
THE Track: This Is Not for You
Caspian - The Four Trees (2007)
Have I mentioned I'm a post-rock girl? Haven't? Well, now you know. And ever since those fellas almost succeeded at blowing my head off last year, I consider Caspian my favourite post-rock band. As one person said, Caspian is that kind of post-rock that won't let you fall asleep. Or get bored (and I bet there are people who claim post-rock to be boring, that's just bullshit). They are pretty good at head explosions. Just try it. Auntie Petra knows her shit.
THE Track: Crawlspace
HEALTH - Get Color (2009)
It was a hard decision between HEALTH's selftitled album and this year's Get Color. I went for Get Color, because it just sounds better to me now. It's the same noise, the same angelic voice of Jake Duzsik, the same ol' HEALTH in better wrapping paper. Note: Do not base your opinion on this band until you see them live. Trust me.
THE Track: Die Slow
Interpol - Turn on the Bright Lights (2002)
I know I'm obvious. BUT THIS ALBUM IS SO BLOODY GOOD IT HURTS, okay?
THE Track: Stella Was a Diver and She Was Always Down
JJ72 - JJ72 (2000)
Yes, my favourite JJ72's songs are Formulae from I to Sky and a B-side Spires. But as a concept, the self-titled is the best one. Tralala, I'm already tired of making this comments. Just trust me and give it a listen everytime when you feel like listening to good music.
THE Track: Snow
Kasabian - Kasabian (2004)
When I first heard this album, it felt amazing. I can't find another word. This album is just a pure brilliance. Such a shame Empire is average (if not worse) and the newest thing doesn't even deserve to be called an album. But the debut is the shit.
THE Track: Reason is Treason
Khoiba - Nice Traps (2005)
A Czech band, officially still in existence but ever since the singer Ema Brabcová left, it's considered non-existent by their fans. Khoiba is the best Czech band that I know of (my apologies to my pals from the Prostitutes, face the truth) and this beautiful dreamy poppy album is never going to be erased from my memory.
THE Track: Pathetic
Soap&Skin - Lovetune for Vacuum (2009)
This is an album not easy to absorb. This girl is not easily understood. But her screams and whispers will get under your skin. You'll suffer with her, you'll dream with her, you'll love with her.
THE Track: Thanatos
White Rose Movement - Kick (2006)
THE Track: Girls in the Back
Kinski - Down Below It's Chaos (2007)
THE Track: Dayroom at Narita Int'l
Muse - Origin of Symmetry (2001)
THE Track: Micro Cuts
Patrick Wolf - Wind in the Wires (2005)
THE Track: Tristan
Sigur Rós - ( ) (2002)
Special appreciation: Placebo - Sleeping with Ghosts (2003)
Because thanks to this album I am who I am. I do what I do. I like what I like. I'm not a huge Placebo fan now (I haven't even listened to their last album and I barely listen to Meds), but this band changed my life and I think they should be part of this list as they were part of my decade.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Years Like These
So, here it is people. It's nearly 2010. End of a decade,beginning of a new era blabla.
Could you believe that, ten years ago, I was wearing black and worshiping some androgyn british guitarist ? (Who said 'You didn't change' ???)
Anywayyy. As it's december, aka 'the month where everyone makes lists and brings nostalgia in our heads', We, Groupies/Teasers/Bitches, contribute to that madness, by writing here about albums that owned us these last ten years.
Here's my list. Enjoy. Or don't. It doesn't count, does it?
The Joy Formidable - A Ballon Called Moaning (2009)
omgomgomgomg. You all know my ears have been feed by My Bloody valentine and Smashing Pumpkins. When I first heard 'Cradle',the first single, I thought I've found Heaven. That said, that mini album is one of the best things released this year. Whirring or Ostrich are perfect exemples.
Johnny Foreigner - Waited Up Till It Was Light (2008)
Everything is just perfect in that 1st album : lyrics I can relate to (even if I'm not from Birmingham, ie 'Sometimes in the Bullring'), inventive guitar tricks ('Hennings favorite' someone?), the boy/girl yelps I cherish. Since last october, these 13 hymns follow me like ghosts.Not that I'm complaining tho.
Blood Red Shoes - Box Of Secrets (2008)
Without this band, I wouldn't be here telling my stories. Back to 2006, when I first listen to them, I loved the grungey vibe they got. One year later, they were the 1st band I interviewed 'for real'. One year after, their first album appeared and I was caught by 'This is not For You'. We're late 2009 now, and most of my friends are related to this band. See The Subways for a similar story.
Los Campesinos! - We Are Beautiful, We Are Doomed (2008)
October 08 document, post UK-traveling : How to sum up your complicated/catastrophic love life in 11 songs? ask Gareth Campesinos. Btw, Gareth, please stop being in my head when you sing 'It's Never That Easy Though, Is It?, my heart can't stand it. Sometimes known as 'best album ever', when I'm up for it.
Silversun Pickups - Carnavas (2007)
Late discovery, thanks fellow BRS boardies!!! Rusted Wheel is brilliant. Reminds me of my beloved Smashing Pumpkins. Excellent album
Serena Maneesh - Serena Maneesh (2006)
In 2004, I met someone who introduced me to My Bloody Valentine. In 2005, I met Serena Maneesh, who got the same spirit and taste for weird sounds and jazzmasters. In 2006, I saw their album in Covent Garden's Rough Trade. Little things make me happy.
The Subways - Young For Eternity (2005)
2005 was really intense for various reasons. I could actually tell you it was the worse year of my entire life. Strangely enough,it was also the year everything changed musically (for me). The Subways and their YFE weren't only that great,fresh teens with lots of energy on stage (euphemism), they were (still are) the band that changed my existence : creating a website, traveling through UK, meeting & partying with people who are now close friends.There's no goodbyes, they said.
The Rakes - Capture/Release (2005)
Burning dancefloors, being invited to hip parties, drinking orange juices when everyone is on drugs, sleeping in trainstations/on strangers floors, meeting scenesters and waving to Alan McGee. That's what this album is related to, in my mind.
Editors - The Backroom (2005)
Other part of the 'Great/horrible year 2005'. Munich and Fingers in the Factories still ringing in my ears. The whole album is stunning tho.
Bloc Party - Silent Alarm (2005)
I remember thinking 'waow, a Cure side project' when i first heard 'Banquet'. Pardon my ignorance folks. 'Plans' is my favorite track.
The Cure - The Cure (2004)
I was so impatient to listen to that album that i've skipped school to buy it. Lost is an amazing track. The End Of The World and Before #3 are some of the best tracks Robert Smith has written.Btw,yes, I'm still in love with Simon Gallup.
Indochine - Paradize (2002)
French band. First cult following I was allowed to do. (hey I was only 16). First gigs,fans and longtime friendships; The band? some Depeche Mode/Cure/Pumpkins/NiN copycats.But fun anyway. 'Dark' & 'La Nuit des Fees' are real standouts. Plus, Melissa Auf Der Maur appears on one track!
The Libertines - Up the Bracket (2002)
Because of them, I : started a band, went to famous parties, improved my english, dreamed of Albion, skipped school a thousand of times and had endless chats about Pete&Carl, met some awesome people. I don't care what people will say about it : This album was a big breath of oxygen in our lives. that is all.
Queen Adreena - Drink Me (2002)
2nd year of high school. New town, new faces and Rocksound magazine, one cold morning, just before the english lesson. Katie Jane Garside is interviewed : her band is playing the french festival 'Les Transmusicales'. The journalist compares her to an 'UFO'. She compares herself to 'a bit of sand in the whole Universe' and truly thinks that 'all the world is a collective dream. We don't exist properly'. Of course, I bought the album afterwards. Her raw punk coupled to her fragile voice still amaze me, seven years later.
Damien Saez - God Blesse (2002)
French artist. Arrogant and talented. In 2002, he released his 2nd album, a double-album actually. Controversial and risky choice, amplfied by the fact half of the compositions are classical music. God Blesse/Katagena is sometimes pure as snow, sometimes dirty, but always intriguing and beautiful. How many times did I put that album at night, crying for a better tomorrow? I've lost count.
Muse- Origin Of Symmetry (2001)
at 15, I was way more impressed by Brian Molko singing about bi-love, but this album totally owned me. Bliss is still a tune, and Hyper Music often helped me during this year.And I think I've learnt to sing with Feeling Good.
Placebo - Black Market Music (2001)
Teenage years hello! I have to confess a deep obsession for Sir Molko, from 13 to ...18,yes. Black Market Music isn't my favorite album (Without You i'm Nothing ftw), but Taste In Men is one of the sexiest tracks I've ever heard.
Depeche Mode - Exciter (2001)
Before being a shoegazer, I was 'new waver' (sometimes mistaken as Goth.) I've never been able to resist Dave Gahan's voice and Martin Gore melodies ; 'I am You', 'I feel loved' and of course 'Dream On' : soundtracks of my last year before high school.That was good.
Marilyn Manson - Hollywood (2001)
Yes. Oh don't tell me you didn't listen to it. To be honest, it was fun to frighten classmates with songs like Fight Song or The Nobodies. Apparently, one of my nicknames at the time was Suicidal Girl. Classy.
Ash - Free All Angels (2001)
Summer album!!! 'Burn Baby Burn' was really popular in my 1st year of high school.But I definitely prefer 'Walking Barefoot' or 'Sometimes'. See, I'm a teenage romantic. Oh , did you know 'Candy' has its own french version? It's hilarious.
Smashing Pumpkins - Rotten Apples (best of) (2001)
BEST BAND EVER EVER EVER. Excuse the fangirlism here. I discovered Billy C and his posse the year they announced their spilt-up. Sad times heh? This best-of was released the year after, and, even if I already owned 'Adore', I obviously bought it. Covering all eras, this 2-discs edition got some interesting bsides. And a beautiful booklet.
The French One x
Could you believe that, ten years ago, I was wearing black and worshiping some androgyn british guitarist ? (Who said 'You didn't change' ???)
Anywayyy. As it's december, aka 'the month where everyone makes lists and brings nostalgia in our heads', We, Groupies/Teasers/Bitches, contribute to that madness, by writing here about albums that owned us these last ten years.
Here's my list. Enjoy. Or don't. It doesn't count, does it?
The Joy Formidable - A Ballon Called Moaning (2009)
omgomgomgomg. You all know my ears have been feed by My Bloody valentine and Smashing Pumpkins. When I first heard 'Cradle',the first single, I thought I've found Heaven. That said, that mini album is one of the best things released this year. Whirring or Ostrich are perfect exemples.
Johnny Foreigner - Waited Up Till It Was Light (2008)
Everything is just perfect in that 1st album : lyrics I can relate to (even if I'm not from Birmingham, ie 'Sometimes in the Bullring'), inventive guitar tricks ('Hennings favorite' someone?), the boy/girl yelps I cherish. Since last october, these 13 hymns follow me like ghosts.Not that I'm complaining tho.
Blood Red Shoes - Box Of Secrets (2008)
Without this band, I wouldn't be here telling my stories. Back to 2006, when I first listen to them, I loved the grungey vibe they got. One year later, they were the 1st band I interviewed 'for real'. One year after, their first album appeared and I was caught by 'This is not For You'. We're late 2009 now, and most of my friends are related to this band. See The Subways for a similar story.
Los Campesinos! - We Are Beautiful, We Are Doomed (2008)
October 08 document, post UK-traveling : How to sum up your complicated/catastrophic love life in 11 songs? ask Gareth Campesinos. Btw, Gareth, please stop being in my head when you sing 'It's Never That Easy Though, Is It?, my heart can't stand it. Sometimes known as 'best album ever', when I'm up for it.
Silversun Pickups - Carnavas (2007)
Late discovery, thanks fellow BRS boardies!!! Rusted Wheel is brilliant. Reminds me of my beloved Smashing Pumpkins. Excellent album
Serena Maneesh - Serena Maneesh (2006)
In 2004, I met someone who introduced me to My Bloody Valentine. In 2005, I met Serena Maneesh, who got the same spirit and taste for weird sounds and jazzmasters. In 2006, I saw their album in Covent Garden's Rough Trade. Little things make me happy.
The Subways - Young For Eternity (2005)
2005 was really intense for various reasons. I could actually tell you it was the worse year of my entire life. Strangely enough,it was also the year everything changed musically (for me). The Subways and their YFE weren't only that great,fresh teens with lots of energy on stage (euphemism), they were (still are) the band that changed my existence : creating a website, traveling through UK, meeting & partying with people who are now close friends.There's no goodbyes, they said.
The Rakes - Capture/Release (2005)
Burning dancefloors, being invited to hip parties, drinking orange juices when everyone is on drugs, sleeping in trainstations/on strangers floors, meeting scenesters and waving to Alan McGee. That's what this album is related to, in my mind.
Editors - The Backroom (2005)
Other part of the 'Great/horrible year 2005'. Munich and Fingers in the Factories still ringing in my ears. The whole album is stunning tho.
Bloc Party - Silent Alarm (2005)
I remember thinking 'waow, a Cure side project' when i first heard 'Banquet'. Pardon my ignorance folks. 'Plans' is my favorite track.
The Cure - The Cure (2004)
I was so impatient to listen to that album that i've skipped school to buy it. Lost is an amazing track. The End Of The World and Before #3 are some of the best tracks Robert Smith has written.Btw,yes, I'm still in love with Simon Gallup.
Indochine - Paradize (2002)
French band. First cult following I was allowed to do. (hey I was only 16). First gigs,fans and longtime friendships; The band? some Depeche Mode/Cure/Pumpkins/NiN copycats.But fun anyway. 'Dark' & 'La Nuit des Fees' are real standouts. Plus, Melissa Auf Der Maur appears on one track!
The Libertines - Up the Bracket (2002)
Because of them, I : started a band, went to famous parties, improved my english, dreamed of Albion, skipped school a thousand of times and had endless chats about Pete&Carl, met some awesome people. I don't care what people will say about it : This album was a big breath of oxygen in our lives. that is all.
Queen Adreena - Drink Me (2002)
2nd year of high school. New town, new faces and Rocksound magazine, one cold morning, just before the english lesson. Katie Jane Garside is interviewed : her band is playing the french festival 'Les Transmusicales'. The journalist compares her to an 'UFO'. She compares herself to 'a bit of sand in the whole Universe' and truly thinks that 'all the world is a collective dream. We don't exist properly'. Of course, I bought the album afterwards. Her raw punk coupled to her fragile voice still amaze me, seven years later.
Damien Saez - God Blesse (2002)
French artist. Arrogant and talented. In 2002, he released his 2nd album, a double-album actually. Controversial and risky choice, amplfied by the fact half of the compositions are classical music. God Blesse/Katagena is sometimes pure as snow, sometimes dirty, but always intriguing and beautiful. How many times did I put that album at night, crying for a better tomorrow? I've lost count.
Muse- Origin Of Symmetry (2001)
at 15, I was way more impressed by Brian Molko singing about bi-love, but this album totally owned me. Bliss is still a tune, and Hyper Music often helped me during this year.And I think I've learnt to sing with Feeling Good.
Placebo - Black Market Music (2001)
Teenage years hello! I have to confess a deep obsession for Sir Molko, from 13 to ...18,yes. Black Market Music isn't my favorite album (Without You i'm Nothing ftw), but Taste In Men is one of the sexiest tracks I've ever heard.
Depeche Mode - Exciter (2001)
Before being a shoegazer, I was 'new waver' (sometimes mistaken as Goth.) I've never been able to resist Dave Gahan's voice and Martin Gore melodies ; 'I am You', 'I feel loved' and of course 'Dream On' : soundtracks of my last year before high school.That was good.
Marilyn Manson - Hollywood (2001)
Yes. Oh don't tell me you didn't listen to it. To be honest, it was fun to frighten classmates with songs like Fight Song or The Nobodies. Apparently, one of my nicknames at the time was Suicidal Girl. Classy.
Ash - Free All Angels (2001)
Summer album!!! 'Burn Baby Burn' was really popular in my 1st year of high school.But I definitely prefer 'Walking Barefoot' or 'Sometimes'. See, I'm a teenage romantic. Oh , did you know 'Candy' has its own french version? It's hilarious.
Smashing Pumpkins - Rotten Apples (best of) (2001)
BEST BAND EVER EVER EVER. Excuse the fangirlism here. I discovered Billy C and his posse the year they announced their spilt-up. Sad times heh? This best-of was released the year after, and, even if I already owned 'Adore', I obviously bought it. Covering all eras, this 2-discs edition got some interesting bsides. And a beautiful booklet.
The French One x
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
(4) year 0
Scared. Of course I'm scared. I'm always scared.
Need to move. Blank page and new land(slide). I need a flash of innocence again. All was---back in the days//
Nightmares are back, panick attacks.
The sweet sensation you can't breathe again, and yet your tears are almost dying inside//I know I could try again, only to let them go.
These things you can't control.
Always eating your mind.
x
Need to move. Blank page and new land(slide). I need a flash of innocence again. All was---back in the days//
Nightmares are back, panick attacks.
The sweet sensation you can't breathe again, and yet your tears are almost dying inside//I know I could try again, only to let them go.
These things you can't control.
Always eating your mind.
x
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Like in Almost Famous...
I recently had a discussion with my Dutch friend Laura about bands and their fans. How far fans are willing to go just to see their favourite band, how much they are willing to pay and so on. Mostly talking from our own experience.
For instance, I met Laura last year in the Netherlands. In Utrecht, in Breda and in Amsterdam. At Tivoli de Helling, at Mezz and at Melkweg. Some of you know - those are the venues Blood Red Shoes played at last year in one week. I travelled with my (now ex) boyfriend to the Netherlands to see our favourite band play three times. We paid a respectful amount of money to get there. And why? Because we love the band.
And this was not the first time I've done that. The very first band I travelled for was Mew - we saw them at Tivoli in Copenhagen in 2006. I've also travelled for Muse, Arcade Fire... and most recently for Trail of Dead. Trail of Dead played in Prague this year, but it wasn't enough - I just wanted to see their show one more time. And then one more time. And I still want to see them play again. Sometimes I travel simply because that certain band doesn't play in Prague or anywhere else in my country. Like Blood Red Shoes - never played in the Czech Republic and yet I've seen them seven times.
Does my dedication make me groupie? I don't care. I don't care if I won't have money for food after my trip. I'm young and I know I'll survive. Sometimes a guestlist spot helps - to be honest, this world would be a much sadder place without guestlist spots. There's pride, of course, but mostly it saves money. You can say "You call yourself a dedicated fan and you don't want to pay for the show?". You are absolutely right. But - I always pay a lot for the means of travelling. Trains are fricking expensive these days - 60 Euros from Prague to Salzburg? That's a lot. Without a guestlist spod I'd have paid almost ninety Euros just for the trainticket and the show. Plus food and drinks and merchandise. Well, you can bring your own food and drink pure water and not buy any merchandise, but where's the fun in that?
And by the way #1: When I say stuff about musicians hotness and/or getting with them, I'm 99% of the time joking. I know get too excited sometimes and then seem to be the biggest groupie in the world, but I never mean it THAT seriously.
What does it mean to be groupie/fangirl/fanboy anyway? People say "oh you're such a groupie, you've seen the band so many times!" but that's bullshit. Seems like nobody understands what "groupie" means anymore. If a person wants to get with a bandmember just because they are one - that's groupieness. If you love them because they make amazing music, that's being a fan. Dedicated, yes, but only a fan. Do you happend to fancy a band member? Hm, and what? They are musicians, but still they are people. And people happen to fancy other people. It's called nature. But "oh I love him, he's from band XYZ" is stupid. Just so you know.
And by the way #2: I fancy musicians. I can say "he's hot!" and mean it. On the other hand, if they are good musician and stupid people at once, there's no chance I'd fancy them. Musician does not equal a god. It equals a person with a talent and stuff - yes, a person. And that matters.
For instance, I met Laura last year in the Netherlands. In Utrecht, in Breda and in Amsterdam. At Tivoli de Helling, at Mezz and at Melkweg. Some of you know - those are the venues Blood Red Shoes played at last year in one week. I travelled with my (now ex) boyfriend to the Netherlands to see our favourite band play three times. We paid a respectful amount of money to get there. And why? Because we love the band.
And this was not the first time I've done that. The very first band I travelled for was Mew - we saw them at Tivoli in Copenhagen in 2006. I've also travelled for Muse, Arcade Fire... and most recently for Trail of Dead. Trail of Dead played in Prague this year, but it wasn't enough - I just wanted to see their show one more time. And then one more time. And I still want to see them play again. Sometimes I travel simply because that certain band doesn't play in Prague or anywhere else in my country. Like Blood Red Shoes - never played in the Czech Republic and yet I've seen them seven times.
Does my dedication make me groupie? I don't care. I don't care if I won't have money for food after my trip. I'm young and I know I'll survive. Sometimes a guestlist spot helps - to be honest, this world would be a much sadder place without guestlist spots. There's pride, of course, but mostly it saves money. You can say "You call yourself a dedicated fan and you don't want to pay for the show?". You are absolutely right. But - I always pay a lot for the means of travelling. Trains are fricking expensive these days - 60 Euros from Prague to Salzburg? That's a lot. Without a guestlist spod I'd have paid almost ninety Euros just for the trainticket and the show. Plus food and drinks and merchandise. Well, you can bring your own food and drink pure water and not buy any merchandise, but where's the fun in that?
And by the way #1: When I say stuff about musicians hotness and/or getting with them, I'm 99% of the time joking. I know get too excited sometimes and then seem to be the biggest groupie in the world, but I never mean it THAT seriously.
What does it mean to be groupie/fangirl/fanboy anyway? People say "oh you're such a groupie, you've seen the band so many times!" but that's bullshit. Seems like nobody understands what "groupie" means anymore. If a person wants to get with a bandmember just because they are one - that's groupieness. If you love them because they make amazing music, that's being a fan. Dedicated, yes, but only a fan. Do you happend to fancy a band member? Hm, and what? They are musicians, but still they are people. And people happen to fancy other people. It's called nature. But "oh I love him, he's from band XYZ" is stupid. Just so you know.
And by the way #2: I fancy musicians. I can say "he's hot!" and mean it. On the other hand, if they are good musician and stupid people at once, there's no chance I'd fancy them. Musician does not equal a god. It equals a person with a talent and stuff - yes, a person. And that matters.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
The Cosmopolitan WishList of a Complicated Girl.
(cause we need some of my infamous posts. Brought to you by Conde-Nast publishing. Enjoy)
. some time to write
I don't need time, I need motivation.
. A new haircut. And color
Redhead like Shirley Manson?black like Siouxsie Sioux?Blue?Green?
short?straight?curly?
suggestions required.
.Tickets to see Tegan&Sara in Paris
Cause,when I'll be rich again, It'll be sold out.
ALSO : tix to see Paramore.Same reasons.
.'About a Boy'-Nick Hornby ; London To Brighton DvD ; The Cure ' Join The Dots' ; A new dress
I'm a girl, I can't help it. Speaking of dress, what do you think about Vanessa Bruno's new collection?
. A band.
ideally a three piece, ideally shoegaze-lo-fi-punk.
Ideally, I should bring my bass again and play some tunes on my own. One can dream.
. a Pavement world tour.
That would pass by France, UK, the Netherlands, any country I can go in.
speaking of, who's in for a stalking tour?
.A flat in Uk.
I need to win the national lottery first.
wish me luck.
.The job I'm looking for.
No,not my dreamjob (for this, I'm working hard, see above). The part time Job I had two interviews for these last two weeks, the one where the boss is a mix between Hugh Laurie and George Clooney (I'm not impressed, i'm not kidding)
. A time machine
SUMMER OF 2009. And October. There are people who will understand
The French One, obv.
x
WANT.
NOW.
NOW.
. some time to write
I don't need time, I need motivation.
. A new haircut. And color
Redhead like Shirley Manson?black like Siouxsie Sioux?Blue?Green?
short?straight?curly?
suggestions required.
.Tickets to see Tegan&Sara in Paris
Cause,when I'll be rich again, It'll be sold out.
ALSO : tix to see Paramore.Same reasons.
.'About a Boy'-Nick Hornby ; London To Brighton DvD ; The Cure ' Join The Dots' ; A new dress
I'm a girl, I can't help it. Speaking of dress, what do you think about Vanessa Bruno's new collection?
. A band.
ideally a three piece, ideally shoegaze-lo-fi-punk.
Ideally, I should bring my bass again and play some tunes on my own. One can dream.
. a Pavement world tour.
That would pass by France, UK, the Netherlands, any country I can go in.
speaking of, who's in for a stalking tour?
.A flat in Uk.
I need to win the national lottery first.
wish me luck.
.The job I'm looking for.
No,not my dreamjob (for this, I'm working hard, see above). The part time Job I had two interviews for these last two weeks, the one where the boss is a mix between Hugh Laurie and George Clooney (I'm not impressed, i'm not kidding)
. A time machine
SUMMER OF 2009. And October. There are people who will understand
The French One, obv.
x
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)