Check this Music Out: The xx

Mar 25, 2013 by Sami

What do I wish for when I hear The xx? That they’d play at Lollapalooza this year. After all, I’ve missed them when they were here in Chicago last year because I was on my way to Tokyo. Funny thing, they just left Tokyo before coming to the US. Some where over the ocean, we might have crossed paths.  

I then fantasize about meeting them in person to thank them for what they’ve accomplished. Their music is the type of stuff that gets you through a rough breakup or a 2 hour train ride. In my opinion, it gives your heartache an appropriate level of drama. Admittedly  I was introduced to them when they came out with their second album, Coexist. Maybe it was because the first one I heard but I prefer their sophomore album to the first one (or maybe it’s the missing band member). It’s one of the few albums that I can play on repeat for a while and I will never realize where it finishes or starts—some might think it’s because every song in the record sound like the one after but I disagree. I love this album because of its ability to teach the listener to let go and accept. It’s not about giving up on love or being happy after a loved one has left. To me, Coexist is about accepting reality and dealing with the awful feeling of being utterly lonely and coming out of it being able to breath better. 

Sunset might be the standout for me. Hearing “When I see you again// And I’m greeted as a friend// It is understood// That we did all we could” absolutely crushes me but then makes me happy—very much like a sunset does. Then again, I don’t think I can pick a favorite, the entire thing is absolutely amazing. Give is a listen on Spotify then go buy the album! If you’re lucky, check them out live, you’ll be blown away. 

 

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Check this Music Out: Lykke Li

Oct 27, 2011 by Sami

Technically speaking, she is perfect and before I go on I’d like to go on the record to say that I am a huge fan of Lykkle Li. But, I also have to say that her live performances are a different story.

Friends and I have had conversations about Lykke’s live performances. I saw her live at Lollapalooza Music Festival this year and I actually left after her 3rd song.

Why? I think Lost in Concert said it best. Her show always has smoke and enough lazer lights to take you back to your high-school rave days. However, emotions rush through you because back during those rave days there was so much jumping around and a dance dialogue. Lykke’s performance lacks that dialogue. I couldn’t tell if it was part of her act or not but her performances felt very one way. It never seemed like she made eye contact with the audience. She was…having a conversation with herself and while we were allowed to watch, we weren’tinvited to join-in.

Regardless of all of that, I’m still a huge fan of Lykke. Her voice is perfect. Her words are timeless and she has a wide range of songs that enables the listener to enjoy her during different moods. I first was introduced to her when I heard Little Bit which is the video below. It still remains my favorite work of hers. I also dig the version she did with Drake. I am going to see her when she’s back in Chicago at the Vic and hope that last time was just a fluke. 

 

 

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Check this Music Out: FITZ AND THE TANTRUMS

Aug 15, 2011 by Sami

Fitz and the Tantrums are kind of like your sassy girl friend that will tell it like it is when it comes to love advice. Not to sound like a judge on Project Runway finale episode but it felt like their album was a cohesive collection of songs that could stand out on their own but together told a bigger picture. Songs like “News 4 U” fill me with the kind of empowerment I’m used to getting from goddesses like Nina Simone. That’s another reason I love Fitz, they give me songs that I would expect from a jazz diva. It’s not Fitz’s personality but his soulful voice that reminds me of these jazz legends. That aside, I don’t think I’ve seen a team that has so much chemistry between each other and so much fun on stage. That coupled with their genuine enthusiasm to be in front of the audience is a good reason enough to check them out. They’ll rile you up, teach you how to give the middle finger to your ex and start a dance party in the duration of five minutes or less!

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