Here are some of this week's new releases as heard on my show. You can catch the new releases every Tuesday at 12:35 pm during my show. :)
Thanks for listening!
The Raconteurs- Consolers Of The Lonely
Jack White (White Stripes) other project is giving us yet another collection of quirky, rockin' tunes. In conjunction with the release today, they are also posting the video for the first single off the album... "Salute Your Solution." You can catch them on tour at The Fillmore on April 28th.
Counting Crows- Saturday Nights and Sunday Mornings
Their first studio album in nearly 5 years! Dread-tressed lead singer Adam Duritz was quoted as saying this album "is about me."
The B-52s- Funplex
So, the Counting Crows haven't put out an album in nearly 5 years. Triple that amount of time, add another year and you have the length of time from the last B-52s album! Yes, 16 years! They have not lost the ability to just get crazy, have fun and entertain in their special way. Longtime fans will find this collection of new tunes absolutely PURE B-52s... only newer! Cindy Wilson, who skipped an appearance on the last album (Good Stuff 1092) is back as well with her former bandmates. Fred Schneider's vocals are as recognizable as ever.
Panic At The Disco- Pretty. Odd
Some changes for the band.. first, notice the exclamation point from the word Panic is now gone. Also, the guys opted this album to use real instruments... in an effort to simplify their sound. The evolution of Panic has taken a very large jump. You'll find the song titles are still long, but they make a little more sense this time around and the music is much more melodic. Let's see if the fans dig it.
Morrissey- Greatest Hits (Deluxe Version)
This double disc set includes 8 live tracks and pretty much ever classic track from Morrissey. The Greatest is being released in 3 versions.. this particular one being the Deluxe.
Tim O'Brien- Chameleon **Sam's Pick**
This is a fantastic new release from folk genius O'Brien. Makes me want to either chill in a hammock and space out for a few hours or hit the road for point undecided!
Anna Nalick- Shine EP
This is an EP featuring Anna's two past hits in new acoustic recordings ("Breathe" and "Wreck of the Day"), plus her new single "Shine" both full and acoustic and a cover of "Breaking the Girl" from the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Additional Releases:
The Lemonheads- It's A Shame About Ray Collector's Edition (Collector's rerelease)
Pennywise- Reason To Believe
Lindsay Buckingham- Live At The Bass Performance Hall (CD and DVD)
Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who Soundtrack- composer: John Powell
Mike Oldfield- Music of the Spheres
Enrique Iglesias-95/08 (CD and DVD)
WWE: The Music Vol. 8
Day 26- Day 26
xoxo,
Sam
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Monday, March 24, 2008
the ballet
Ok. I have to admit something. I have never claimed to like the ballet. My family never made a priority out of attending that 'type' of cultural entertainment. In fact, I had sort of got into my head that ballet was for uppity, dull and snooty folks. Plus, I secretly thought it just had to be boring. And I had never even SEEN a ballet. My limited exposure with it was when I took a ballet class as a child... my teacher pretty much told me I did not (and never would) have the body of a ballerina. Well, she was right, but... hello... rude!
That was previous to my first ever ballet attendance. Last year I took a group of ladies (one of my many Sam's Six in the City outings) to the production of Where The Wild Things Are. I will readily admit... it was quite impressive. The props were amazing and the dancing mezmerising. I didn't gush about it, though. I wasn't quite ready to admit that I enjoyed myself. Since then, I've caught the ballet now and then.
After this past weekend's viewing of the Repertory Series with another Six in the City winner (Jay and his family were so nice!), I have decided to not be a closet ballet fan any more. I like the ballet. There. I said it. I'm proud I conquered my utterly ridiculous stereotypes about the kind of people that enjoy watching the ballet. I'm not closeminded... I was just ill-educated in the matter. But I tried it out and I liked it. I find it extremely relaxing for the most part and after attending ballets, I find my mind is uncluttered and I'm able to think a little more clearly. I don't really know why, but I like that feeling.
I suppose the main point here would be to ask if you have something in your life that you have never done simply because you don't have a clear idea on what it is or if it's for you. Stop for a moment and ponder it. Is there something you've never even thought to try? Something completely accessible but never accessed? This year, try ONE thing that you don't think is your thing... you might hate it, but then again... you might find something that enriches your life in a small or big way.
Thanks for reading!!
xo,
Sam
That was previous to my first ever ballet attendance. Last year I took a group of ladies (one of my many Sam's Six in the City outings) to the production of Where The Wild Things Are. I will readily admit... it was quite impressive. The props were amazing and the dancing mezmerising. I didn't gush about it, though. I wasn't quite ready to admit that I enjoyed myself. Since then, I've caught the ballet now and then.
After this past weekend's viewing of the Repertory Series with another Six in the City winner (Jay and his family were so nice!), I have decided to not be a closet ballet fan any more. I like the ballet. There. I said it. I'm proud I conquered my utterly ridiculous stereotypes about the kind of people that enjoy watching the ballet. I'm not closeminded... I was just ill-educated in the matter. But I tried it out and I liked it. I find it extremely relaxing for the most part and after attending ballets, I find my mind is uncluttered and I'm able to think a little more clearly. I don't really know why, but I like that feeling.
I suppose the main point here would be to ask if you have something in your life that you have never done simply because you don't have a clear idea on what it is or if it's for you. Stop for a moment and ponder it. Is there something you've never even thought to try? Something completely accessible but never accessed? This year, try ONE thing that you don't think is your thing... you might hate it, but then again... you might find something that enriches your life in a small or big way.
Thanks for reading!!
xo,
Sam
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
new soul, baby.
First off... for those of you who have seen the t.v. spots for the new Macbook Air may wonder whose song is playing. Well, that just happens to be my first new release to tell you about today!
Yael Naim- Yael Naim
For those of us crazy about chill chicks, here is something to check out immediately! Ethereal vocals and beautiful instrumentation make a super cool, super chill album. Yael actually does a cover of Britney Spears "Toxic." Whoa.
She and Him Vol. 1- She & Him (Artist), M. Ward (Performer), Zooey Deschanel (Performer)
Zooey was in the movie Elf with Will Ferrell and that's where some of us got our first earful of her killer singing voice (Baby.. it's coooold outside! hehe). This is the musical debut from the pair, brought together by director Martin Hayens.
Devotchka- A Mad And Faithful Telling **Sam's Pick**
This is the Anti (label) release of Colorado favs Devotchka's record. They are doing an in-store signing today at 6pm at Twist and Shout on Colfax.
Sara Bareilles- Little Voice (2-disc set)
Sara's CD is re-released with an additional bonus disc that includes stripped versions of some tunes (video versions, too) and an interview with Sara.
New Found Glory- Hits
The band's first greatest hits includes their most popular singles, plus some album cuts and some never released material.
More fun stuff:
The Kills- Midnight Boom
Destroyer- Trouble in Dreams **Sam's pick**
Daniel Lanois- Here Is What Is
The Hush Sound- Goodbye Blues **Sam's pick**
The Marches- A Band In Hope
Be Your Own Pet- Get Awkward
Switches- Lay Down the Law
Yael Naim- Yael Naim
For those of us crazy about chill chicks, here is something to check out immediately! Ethereal vocals and beautiful instrumentation make a super cool, super chill album. Yael actually does a cover of Britney Spears "Toxic." Whoa.
She and Him Vol. 1- She & Him (Artist), M. Ward (Performer), Zooey Deschanel (Performer)
Zooey was in the movie Elf with Will Ferrell and that's where some of us got our first earful of her killer singing voice (Baby.. it's coooold outside! hehe). This is the musical debut from the pair, brought together by director Martin Hayens.
Devotchka- A Mad And Faithful Telling **Sam's Pick**
This is the Anti (label) release of Colorado favs Devotchka's record. They are doing an in-store signing today at 6pm at Twist and Shout on Colfax.
Sara Bareilles- Little Voice (2-disc set)
Sara's CD is re-released with an additional bonus disc that includes stripped versions of some tunes (video versions, too) and an interview with Sara.
New Found Glory- Hits
The band's first greatest hits includes their most popular singles, plus some album cuts and some never released material.
More fun stuff:
The Kills- Midnight Boom
Destroyer- Trouble in Dreams **Sam's pick**
Daniel Lanois- Here Is What Is
The Hush Sound- Goodbye Blues **Sam's pick**
The Marches- A Band In Hope
Be Your Own Pet- Get Awkward
Switches- Lay Down the Law
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
The Presidents... as in the band...
Remember those guys? They are the highlight of my new release feature today. So, without further ado, here we go:
New releases for March 11, 2008
The Presidents of the United States of America- These Are The Good Times People
These guys are from my old stompin' ground (Seattle) and their simple, straightforward, fun and quirky tunes have always held a special place in my heart. I still have my LUMP sticker from the promotional mailing of their first album. One of my favorite interviews was with them a few years back. They completely took over my studio and had me laughing so hard I was crying! Plus Dave borrowed a long black and red wig of mine and wore it while busting into the second songAnyhow, here they are with a new album and 14 new delightfully fun tracks! They are currently touring, but nowhere near us quite yet. Boo!
Shawn Mullins- Honeydew
Shawn's Myspace page says it nicely: Shawn Mullins lives in Atlanta, he writes the songs that you might have heard in your friend's car.
Honeydew could be the one your friends hear in your car?
Now That's What I Call Music Vol 27- Various Artists
Vol. 27 includes tunes from Sara Bareilles, Jordin Sparks, Santana & Chad Kroeger, Fergie, OneRepublic etc.. basically. All smash hits, baby.
Now That's What I Call The 80s- Various Artists
Yes, the 80s are back, apparently and here for your listening pleasure, 20 hot tracks from the decade that brought us Hypercolor and the snap bracelet. Everything from Whitesnake to Billy Joel.
Snoop Dog- Ego Trippin'
Good to know that even though he's become a reality tv star and keeps himself in the producing world, our beloved Snoop is still cranking out the tunes. Hard to believe this is album number 9!
Meshuggah- Obzen
One for the metalheads.
Randy Jackson- Randy Jackson's Music Club Vol. 1
Randy is celebrating the launch of his new label (Dream Merchant 21) and asked artists to record for this compilation. You will find artists like Richie Sambora, Mariah Carey and Joss Stone along with some of the Idol darlings.
10,000 B.C. Soundtrack- Score
New releases for March 11, 2008
The Presidents of the United States of America- These Are The Good Times People
These guys are from my old stompin' ground (Seattle) and their simple, straightforward, fun and quirky tunes have always held a special place in my heart. I still have my LUMP sticker from the promotional mailing of their first album. One of my favorite interviews was with them a few years back. They completely took over my studio and had me laughing so hard I was crying! Plus Dave borrowed a long black and red wig of mine and wore it while busting into the second songAnyhow, here they are with a new album and 14 new delightfully fun tracks! They are currently touring, but nowhere near us quite yet. Boo!
Shawn Mullins- Honeydew
Shawn's Myspace page says it nicely: Shawn Mullins lives in Atlanta, he writes the songs that you might have heard in your friend's car.
Honeydew could be the one your friends hear in your car?
Now That's What I Call Music Vol 27- Various Artists
Vol. 27 includes tunes from Sara Bareilles, Jordin Sparks, Santana & Chad Kroeger, Fergie, OneRepublic etc.. basically. All smash hits, baby.
Now That's What I Call The 80s- Various Artists
Yes, the 80s are back, apparently and here for your listening pleasure, 20 hot tracks from the decade that brought us Hypercolor and the snap bracelet. Everything from Whitesnake to Billy Joel.
Snoop Dog- Ego Trippin'
Good to know that even though he's become a reality tv star and keeps himself in the producing world, our beloved Snoop is still cranking out the tunes. Hard to believe this is album number 9!
Meshuggah- Obzen
One for the metalheads.
Randy Jackson- Randy Jackson's Music Club Vol. 1
Randy is celebrating the launch of his new label (Dream Merchant 21) and asked artists to record for this compilation. You will find artists like Richie Sambora, Mariah Carey and Joss Stone along with some of the Idol darlings.
10,000 B.C. Soundtrack- Score
Monday, March 3, 2008
crunchless abs and all that...
Working out has never been fun for me. When I was in high school I participated a bit (softball, volleyball and cheerleading) but I am truly one of those people that does NOT enjoy running. I have tried. I HATE it. It took me ages to find the perfect workout for me. Yoga. I started doing yoga casually about a year ago and now I'm pretty into it. My only problem?
**Confession Time**
I have a paralyzing fear of working out in a group setting. It goes beyond the normal of feeling self-conscious or like everyone is watching. In fact, I don't know if those two things come into play at all. I have just never enjoyed having someone right in my face telling me and a bunch of others what to do. The only group excercise I've ever been able to enjoy was boxing, but it was still difficult. It's not that I haven't given it several shots. I have. It's just not for me, I guess.
Basically, I have decided I will never be comfortable doing my workouts with others around me. So, how can I safely do yoga in my home and not kill myself? I have a very dear friend who is a certified yoga instructor and I consult her regularly on my form, moving on to more advanced positions etc. So far it has worked for me. I'm a big fan of the workout dvd and I have over the past year found some amazing ones... Shiva Rea for example. Her yoga dvds are awesome. She has beautiful surroundings, a calm voice, great workouts and meditation segments. I have come to the conclusion that yoga has struck a chord with me because it not only helps the bod, but it helps the mind. That is a combination that I require in order to truly get something out of a structured workout.
The one thing I'm missing is a good cardio workout. I have never been good at cardio workouts (again, the boxing was awesome... but classes are hard for me). I have wished and wished I liked to run... or JOG even. I have tried to force myself to like it. In high school when we ran laps for softball and volleyball I was always last, always dying, always miserable. No matter how often I did it, I still felt like I could not gain cardio strength. It's almost like my lungs can't handle it, you know? So, I have in vain tried to find something that I enjoy in that department. And let's be clear- at this point, the only times you will see me running are as follows:
1. I'm in the restroom and I hear that Alice has gone off the air.
2. There is a person running after me with some sort of weapon & an obvious harmful intention.
3. I'm being chased by a bear.
Oh, before I get any suggestions of aerobics of any kind- don't. Those are just plain annoying. There is nothing worse than a hyper barbi doll telling me that I'm doing a great job and to keep going... one. more. time. yay! Hey, I'm not saying it's ineffective or bad, it just doesn' t appeal to me. Yes, been there, done that. Got the shirt. Burned it.
Well, I guess it took me until age 32 to discover yoga was just what I needed. I suppose any day now I will stumble upon the perfect cardio workout. The one that is tailored for the ever-picky Sam Hill. Well, Shiva does have a Trance Dance dvd.
Until then: namaste
Thanks for reading (my ramblings... because that is all today was!)
xo,
Sam
**Confession Time**
I have a paralyzing fear of working out in a group setting. It goes beyond the normal of feeling self-conscious or like everyone is watching. In fact, I don't know if those two things come into play at all. I have just never enjoyed having someone right in my face telling me and a bunch of others what to do. The only group excercise I've ever been able to enjoy was boxing, but it was still difficult. It's not that I haven't given it several shots. I have. It's just not for me, I guess.
Basically, I have decided I will never be comfortable doing my workouts with others around me. So, how can I safely do yoga in my home and not kill myself? I have a very dear friend who is a certified yoga instructor and I consult her regularly on my form, moving on to more advanced positions etc. So far it has worked for me. I'm a big fan of the workout dvd and I have over the past year found some amazing ones... Shiva Rea for example. Her yoga dvds are awesome. She has beautiful surroundings, a calm voice, great workouts and meditation segments. I have come to the conclusion that yoga has struck a chord with me because it not only helps the bod, but it helps the mind. That is a combination that I require in order to truly get something out of a structured workout.
The one thing I'm missing is a good cardio workout. I have never been good at cardio workouts (again, the boxing was awesome... but classes are hard for me). I have wished and wished I liked to run... or JOG even. I have tried to force myself to like it. In high school when we ran laps for softball and volleyball I was always last, always dying, always miserable. No matter how often I did it, I still felt like I could not gain cardio strength. It's almost like my lungs can't handle it, you know? So, I have in vain tried to find something that I enjoy in that department. And let's be clear- at this point, the only times you will see me running are as follows:
1. I'm in the restroom and I hear that Alice has gone off the air.
2. There is a person running after me with some sort of weapon & an obvious harmful intention.
3. I'm being chased by a bear.
Oh, before I get any suggestions of aerobics of any kind- don't. Those are just plain annoying. There is nothing worse than a hyper barbi doll telling me that I'm doing a great job and to keep going... one. more. time. yay! Hey, I'm not saying it's ineffective or bad, it just doesn' t appeal to me. Yes, been there, done that. Got the shirt. Burned it.
Well, I guess it took me until age 32 to discover yoga was just what I needed. I suppose any day now I will stumble upon the perfect cardio workout. The one that is tailored for the ever-picky Sam Hill. Well, Shiva does have a Trance Dance dvd.
Until then: namaste
Thanks for reading (my ramblings... because that is all today was!)
xo,
Sam
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