Retrospecticus: My Morning Jacket

Seeing as though My Morning Jacket have seemed to just be getting better and better ever since their debut album, I’m very excited for their new album Evil Urges, which drops this Tuesday. Now here’s a look back at their discography so far.

The Tennessee Fire (1999)

My Morning Jacket’s debut does a pretty good job of establishing what would define MMJ’s early sound: Alt-Country/Southern Rock complemented by Jim James’s mesmerizing voice drenched in reverb. It definitely has a much more subdued sound, with a good dose of acoustic guitars being prominent on The Tennessee Fire. James’s songs are simple but enjoyable on this album, even if they don’t have the amount of energy that would come to define their more recent work. It’s ultimately a solid debut, but you certainly wouldn’t think of My Morning Jacket as anything particularly special after listening to this album.

Favorite Tracks: Heartbreakin’ Man, Evelyn Is Not Real, I Think I’m Going to Hell

At Dawn (2001)

My Morning Jacket’s sophomore effort finds them building on the sound of their first album with a much more lush and expansive sound. It definitely has more of a feel of being a band recording than just a Jim James solo effort, which is essentially what the first MMJ album is. However, it’s still James’s voice and songwriting that drives the record. At Dawn has a number of my favorite MMJ tracks from their earlier years, and the album really shows Jim James starting to grow as a songwriter. However, at 74 minutes I would say it’s a lot longer than it needs to be, which is a problem for me on all three of MMJ’s first three albums, and there’s at least 2 or 3 songs on At Dawn that I could’ve done without. It’s nice to see that they’ve begun to keep their albums at under an hour long on Z and Evil Urges.

Favorite Tracks: Low Down, X-Mas Curtain, Just Because I Do

It Still Moves (2003)

My Morning Jacket’s third album shows them taking on a less dissonant, more polished sound. Also, with songs like “Dancefloors” and “One Big Holiday”, it rocks a lot more than their previous efforts. I think this probably would have do at least partly with the addition of drummer Patrick Hallahan, whose Bonham-like drumming gives a kick to MMJ’s sound that wasn’t present on their previous albums. It also shows them taking on more of a jam band mentality with longer cuts like “I Will Sing You Songs” and “Steam Engine”. The more straightforward classic rock sound of It Still Moves probably makes it MMJ’s most accessible album, however at time this makes the album feel a little bland. It Still Moves shows that My Morning Jacket still weren’t ready to tamper too much with their signature sound, but Jim James shows that his abilities as a songwriter just continue to blossom.

Favorite Tracks: Dancefloors, One Big Holiday, Run Thru

Z (2005)

Z saw My Morning Jacket taking their already likeable sound in many different directions in what is without a doubt their best album to date. They almost sound like an entirely different band on this album and in some aspects they are, guitarist Carl Broemel and keyboard player Bo Koster were added to the band after two members quit prior to the recording of Z. Also, Z’s unique sound can also be attributed to the presence of accomplished producer John Leckie (Jim James produced MMJ’s first three albums). There’s more of a heavy alternative rock sound to songs like “What a Wonderful Man” and “Anytime”. They also mix in Prog-Rock on “Wordless Chorus” and “Dondante”, and then there’s “Off The Record”, which sounds like reggae crossed with the Hawaii Five-O theme song. Z seems as if it’s only the beginning of My Morning Jacket’s exploration of their new sound, so I’m very excited to see what this band will do in the future.

Favorite Tracks: What a Wonderful Man, Off the Record, Anytime

Okonokos (2006)

Over the years, My Morning Jacket’s reputation as a live band has continued to grow, and Okonokos, their first live album, does a pretty good job of showcasing the band’s live sound. The album was recorded on their Z tour, and all of the songs off of Z are just as good live as they are on the album. However, what really makes this album interesting is hearing many of their earlier songs like “One Big Holiday” or “Lowdown” blown up to gigantic arena-rock size proportions. The band really sounds tight throughout the whole performance, although I guess the only minor problem is that a lot of the band’s earlier songs that are performed aren’t quite at the level as My Morning Jacket’s more recent material.

Favorite Tracks: One Big Holiday, Lay Low, Mahgeetah

Evil Urges (2008)

I’ve already listened to most of their new album, seeing as though they posted every song off of it on their myspace. They definitely continue to explore many new sounds on it, especially on my favorite track on the album so far, “Highly Suspicious”. It’ll definitely take me a few more listens to really absorb it, so I’ll probably have a review of Evil Urges by the end of the week.

It’s Not Easy Being Green

So it’s been almost four years since the release of Green Day’s Grammy winning comeback album American Idiot with extensive touring and promotion, I think it’s fair to say that most people figured Green Day would probably take it easy for awhile after thhat album. Though I’ll still bet plenty of fans are wondering “When are they going to do another album?” well I got news for you, they actually already have and it’s available right now.

This story starts in December of 2007, when word began to spread about a mysterious Garage Rock band on the web by the name of the Foxboro Hot Tubs. With a raw 60s inspired sound and their catchy two minute rock songs, questions soon arose as to the identity of this band. Similarities were soon drawn to the Pop/Punk Music stylings of Green Day and soon enough Green Day confirmed to be this band. Though this band ain’t just Mike, Billie and Tre as there a few other musicians tagging along for the ride. Jason White and Jason Freese (two musicians who’ve recently accompanied Green Day on tour) are members and Kevin Preston (singer/guitarist of Prima Donna) is also a part of the group.

Personally I’m a pretty casual fan of Green Day. I enjoy their music to some extent, (All I’ve really heard is Dookie) but seeing this band successfully utilize another genre of Rock is impressive, and I rather enjoy the results. For this side project really shows versatility in Green Day’s musical abilities and creativity. It’s also nice to see Green Day pay tribute to some of their 60s inspirations showing hints of The Kinks, The Stooges and Tommy James and the Shondells while also borrowing some similarities to modern Garage bands like The Strokes and The Hives. Though it is unfortunate that in order to experiment with other stylings, Green Day must take on another alias to do so, but I suppose it’s for the best. I mean they don’t want to piss off any fans by straying to far from their trademark sound.

As for the music they’ve recorded and release, there is currently a six song E.P. and a full length album (both entitlled “Stop Drop and Roll!!!”) that was released on May 20th. I currently only have their six song E.P. but I enjoy it nonetheless with some of my favorite tracks being “Red Tide” and their lead single “Mother Mary”. One thing is for sure is that it’s refreshing to see this band reinvent themselves in order to show that they haven’t run out of ideas. As for another Green Day album I read that Billie Joe is hoping to release another by the end of the year or early 2009, but until then I’d say that the Foxboro Hot Tubs might be something nice to tide fans over until than.

Panda to Panda

Kung Fu Panda

“Prepare for Awesomeness” as the tagline states, which is an adequate way to sum up Dreamworks latest CGI venture Kung Fu Panda. A simplistic yet sweet foray into a whimsical ancient China inhabited by animal warriors, mysticism, and one comical panda by the name of Po.

Following a familiar direction, Kung Fu Panda is the basic children’s movie formula of a misunderstood lead character going through scene after scene of comical situations and heartwarming moments, while learning plenty of lessons along the way. Now though Kung Fu Panda may look like another rushed “Cash- In” kids movie, I think it’s safe to say that there’s actually a lot of hardwork going on here. The slapstick comedy works for all ages, while the flowing animation is smooth and vibrant with some great effort towards detail. Though I really don’t think this movie would of worked on the same level without Jack Black. His grand comedic delivery and trademark enthusiasm are what really tied this film together. It was also nice to see some other stars lending their voices to this flick, even if they didn’t have that significant of roles. Of course Dustin Hoffman performance as the cynical, yet wise Shifu was entertaining, it was also a treat to have some other celebs such as; Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen, David Cross, Lucy Liu and the great Jackie Chan get in on the fun. One thing is for sure, is that this film’s quality certainly surprised me. I mean it’s almost like the definition of “Pleasant Surprise” considering it’s so-so trailers and wacky idea, but somehow they pulled it off and probably made the best CGI movie I’ve seen since Ratatouile “Ske doosh!”

Next-Jenga Gaming

Boom Blox

Years ago, it was announced that Electronic Arts and Steven Spielberg were gonna get together and make a few games. I, personally was expecting some sort of game version of War of the Worlds or Minority Report, but instead we got the puzzling puzzle game. And while I’m not sure just how much influence Spielberg had, Boom Blox is definitely a worthy carrier of his name.

Boom Blox is most similar to classic board game Jenga (thus the title pun, get it? like next-gen?). There are a variety of game modes in this package, all centering around destroying structures made out of said “blox.” Some games require you to pull specific blox without toppling others, while others ask you to destroy the structures by throwing balls at them.

There is also an adventure mode, which is the story of these animal characters. You help them out by defending them and their forts and clearing paths for them. The other single-player mode involves solving specific challenges, allowing players to hone their skills in their favorite blox-destroying challenges. With multiple score goals for each level, there’s plenty here to keep solitary gamers satisfied.

Boom Blox also boasts a multiplayer mode and a level editor. In party mode, players can either share a screen or go split screen and either work together and compete amongst each other. I haven’t really played the mode yet, but it seems like it would be very fun. The level editor is fairly robust and offers everything a designer-wannabe would need.

Boom Blox is the game that has distracted me from finishing GTA4. That should be enough to explain how fun it is. Its depth means that its price is well-justified, and it is absolutely one of the most entertaining games on the Wii. If you have a Wii, this is definitely something to check out.

T3: Lightsaber Battles

Since I’ve been in such a Star Warsish mood lately I got to thinking about my favorite lightsaber battles. Every time that phrase comes to mind I automatically think of Phantom Menace, but this most recent run through of the series changed my perspective.

Disclaimer:
The following list does not represent Cat Fancy’s opinion as a whole. This is only Nancy’s opinion and personal lists are encouraged in the comments.

10. Participants: Qui-Gon Jinn Vs. Darth Maul
Location: Outskirts of Tatooine
Episode I

This fight introduced Darth Maul to the series and made whiny kids all like, “WTF? I thought he had a twin bladed light saber, ah man this is lame.” I enjoyed this particular fight despite it being one of the shortest. Qui-Gon also appears to be a little out of shape.

9. Participants: Mace Windu & the Little Bitches Vs. Darth Sidious & Anakin Skywalker
Location: Supreme Chancellor’s Office
Episode III

I found the other Jedi in this fight to be extremely weak and laughable, but Mace Windu proves to be pretty bad ass. This fight has everything from Force Lightening to hideous bone deformities. It is also an intrical part of the plot, as we see Anakin become Darth Vader.

8. Participants: Obi-Wan Vs. Darth Vader
Location: Death Star Hallway
Episode IV

As I write this I keep hearing AJ yelling at me, “Ahh wtf, you dumb-ass. That should be mass-high on the list.” Well besides the fact that it is the first lightsaber battle we have the liberty of witnessing, it is rather dull and even the dialogue makes me drowsy. At this point in the movie I am more interested in how Luke and the gang are going to escape than watching these two geezer’s duke it out.

7. Participants: Yoda Vs. Darth Sidious
Location: Grand Convocation Chamber
Episode III

This fight was hyped up a little too much by Tim and I was a more emotionally preoccupied with the other fight that was going on during it. None the less, it is a pretty visual one with the representative’s booth’s being tossed around like lawn furniture and Yoda just telling that Force Lightening who’s boss. Though I would be pissed if I was a Senator who came in for a vote the next morning to find that my booth and all its important contents was missing.

6. Participants: Obi-Wan, Anakin, & Yoda Vs. Darth Tyrannus
Location: Hanger on Geonosis
Episode II

This of course is the worlds first look at Yoda’s saber wielding abilities. The crowd at the theater roared as he used the force to unleash his weapon and go postal on his former apprentice. But preceding Yoda is Anakin’s impatience, which leads him to having his arm cut off and Obi-Wan injured.

5. Participants: Obi-Wan & Anakin Vs. Darth Tyrannus
Location: Trade Federation Battleship
Episode III

Starting off the movie with a visually stunning space battle leading to one of my favorite lightsaber duels was a great way to kick off Revenge of the Sith. This definitely set the tone for this to be one of the darker installments of the franchise.

4. Participants: Luke Vs. Darth Vader
Location: Cloud City
Episode V

Three rounds of intense fighting and dialogue, this particular fight will always be ranked atop of any fans list. Starts off with Vader trying to encase Luke in carbonite. Then down to a lower level where Vader uses the force to knock Luke out the window, and finally onto the perch where Darth Vader’s true relationship with his foe is revealed.

3. Participants: Qui-Gon & Obi-Wan Vs. Darth Maul
Location: Naboo
Episode I

Basically my only argument that this is a film not worth skipping, this is finally where we see what life was like in for Jedi in the Old Republic. Before they were extinct, the Jedi were very agile and had to know their opponents next move if they were going to last any longer. A very visually stimulating performance by whoever was actually fighting, and one of the better endings to a lightsaber battle.

2. Luke Vs. Darth Vader
Location: Second Death Star
Episode VI

Basically the reason I rank Return of the Jedi as my favorite of the series. So much happens during the span of this fight. In perspective of the original trilogy, we finally find out who this emperor guy is and how he fits into all of this. In perspective of the whole series we finally see Anakin fulfill the prophecy of the one that brings balance to the force. So much hate, suffering, and pain is poured into one scene. A great conclusion to an epic tale.

1. Obi-Wan Vs. Darth Vader
Location: Mustafar
Episode III

As for my generation, this is the scene where it all come together. The whole series is tied up to this one battle. We all knew what was going to happen and who was going to fight. But we didn’t know how it would finally fold out. After Obi-Wan discovers that Anakin has turned to the dark side, he is forced to confront his old apprentice on the volcanic system of Mustafar. The setting makes for an intense fight and John Williams score just reminds us what is going through Obi-Wan’s mind at this point. He has to overcome the fact that his best friend and apprentice Anakin Skywalker is no longer alive, and that this Dark Lord of the Sith must be destroyed before he harms too many more former cast members of Cheers. This scene was so emotional it made Steven Spielberg cry. I still get shivers every time I watch it.

Honorable Mention: Obi-Wan Vs. General Greevus, Luke Vs. Vader Dagobah Acid-Trip, Luke Vs. Sphere thing, Star Wars Kid.

"Red"y to Rock

Weezer – Weezer (The Red Album)

I’d originally planned to post this review this friday, but after listening to pretty much nothing but his album for about two days, I think I’m ready to give my opinion. If anyone has read anything about Weezer’s latest album, I think you’ll find that most fans and critics are split on their opinions. Some say it’s a messy collection of ideas that’s more style than substance while others believe it to be a triumphant return to Weezer’s offbeat Alternative Rock sound of the 90s. I wouldn’t necessarily rave over this album, nor put it down because for the most part I found this to be a lot of fun and a step in the right direction for these veteran rockers.

The Red Album is quite unlike anything these guys have ever done. I think it’s a big plus to see Weezer trying out new sounds and genres when their last two albums Maladroit and Make Believe weren’t much more than generic rock records. This album has a flair for the unpredictable and though at times it can be a little cluttered, it leaves for a memorable listening experience.

Here we get a little taste of everything from the fun pointless pop/rock of “Troublemaker” and “Everybody Get Dangerous” to the almost epic production of “The Greatest Man That Ever Lived” and the 90s esque “Dreamin'”. Why we even get a return to Weezer’s goofy side with “Pork and Beans”. Cuomo is definitely in a good place with his new collection of songs but what about the three songs written and sung by the other members of Weezer? Well first of all “Automatic” (Being the contribution by drummer Patrick Wilson) I’ve actually found to be one my favorite tracks on the album. With it’s tight n’ crunchy guitar work and strong rhythm, Pat’s got quite a knack for kicking out the jam. Scott Shriner’s song is actually not bad either (Although it was co-written by Rivers Cuomo) despite his creepy lyrics like “I’ll be like a brother, I will protect you never disrespect you but if you love then I’ll be here to sex you” Something about being like a brother and then “sexing you” in the same verse doesn’t sit well with me. Brian Bell’s song is the weakest of the bunch, not necessarily because of it’s inoffensive contemporary sound but due to his weak voice. He pretty much sounds like the lead singers of Buckcherry and Collective Soul had a secret love child together.

Basically this is a mildly clever album. It probably could of benefited from a different track order or trimming down a few songs, but for the most part it’s a good ride. Oh and props to Rick Rubin and Jacknife Lee for their slick producing… A nice effort on everyone’s part.

Favorite Tracks: “Troublemaker”, “Pork and Beans”, “Automatic”

C.A.T.: Darkness on the Edge of Town

Bruce Springsteen – Darkness on the Edge of Town (1978)

Yesterday marked the 30th anniversary of the release of Bruce Spingsteen’s 1978 follow-up to his breakthrough album, Born to Run. And though I wouldn’t say it’s quite as good as that masterpiece, it’s still one of The Boss’s very best albums.

Darkness on the Edge of Town came after a lengthy legal battle with his former manager, and subsequently kept Springsteen and the E Street Band out of the studio for over two years. This probably had something to do with the less-hopeful, beaten-down content of the songs on Darkness on the Edge of Town as compared to his first three albums. Themes of dissapointment and regret are explored on songs like “Racing in the Street” and “Factory”. However, songs like the “Badlands” and “The Promised Land”, still have that Born to Run feel of being about reaching for something greater.

Still, even with the Boss’s somewhat darker approach to songwriting, the E Street Band’s playing is just as powerful as ever. There’s definitely a bit more of an emphasis on Bruce’s and Steven Van Zandt’s guitars on this album, whereas Born to Run seemed to rely more on Roy Bittan’s piano work. And topping all this off with Max Weinberg’s commanding drum work, and Clarence Clemens always memorable saxaphone solos, the E Street Band was a very tight sounding unit at this point. This probably had to do with the fact that they had been touring relentlessly for the past two years up until recording this album, and they had already been playing the songs from Darkness of the Edge of Town live for some time.

So all in all, Darkness on the Edge of Town is a more than worthy follow up to Born to Run. It’s pretty amazing that The Boss was on such a roll back then, having this album come out after Born to Run and the suberb The Wild, The Innocent, and the E Street Shuffle, with the haunting Nebraska and hugely successful Born in the U.S.A. still to come.

Favorite Tracks: “Badlands”, “Candy’s Room”, “Prove It All Night”