Rolling Stones: Exhile on Main St.

The only other album I have listened to so far of the Rolling Stones has been Big Hits.  To be quite honest, I never really got into the Stones, mostly because Mick Jagger rubbed me the wrong way (not literally).  I love Big Hits.  And the only reason I ever got it was because it was only $3 at a Half Priced Book Store.

After listening to Exhile on Main St., I have a new found respect for the music of the Rolling Stones.  This album was acutally their tenth, being released in 1972.  Even though it’s #10 in release, this album is considered by many to be the bands best work.  In fact, Rolling Stone Magazine ranked this album seventh in a list of the top 500 greatest albums of all time.

The dynamics from song to song keep you engaged and looking for more.  When all is said and done, this album get’s the top rating this site can give.  Well done Rolling Stones (the band, not the magazine… or the Bob Dylan song).

Rating: 5/5

My Journey Through Classic Rock

Apart from the last post, it has been some time since I have done any kind of review.  I apologize to all of you who have checked in every once in awhile.  But have no fear, I plan to continue reviewing music of all types.

For starters, I am going to be looking back at some albums from the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s that are considered to be some classics.  If you have any suggestions of albums for me to check out, please let me know.  During my search for some ‘oldies but goodies,’ I will continue looking at some more modern music as well.

At this point I am still pretty amateur with the reviews, but hopefully we can grow together, both as a reviewer and you (the reader) as discussion holders.  I would really like to create some dialog over the albums posted on this site.

Thank you for visiting, and I hope to interact with all of you in the very near future.

Annie Lynch and the Beekeepers

This album, which is self titled, was a pleasant surprise.  I had no idea what to expect when the album started, but from the first track Charlotte’s Web I was captivated.

Album Cover

Someone once told me that an accordion has no place in modern music.  This may true in the sense that polka is not longer as popular as it once was (thankfully), Annie Lynch and other artists have really done a good job at reintroducing the instrument as a vital part to modern folk.

Their style is reminiscent of Nickelcreek, which is a pretty high standard to meet.  If you are a fan of the Folk/Bluegrass genre, definitely add this to your playlist.

Eventually I could see this album receiving 5 points, as I’m sure I will continue to listen and enjoy, but for now I can only give it a 4 star rating.

Sigur Rós: Takk

Beautiful in every way imaginable.  Takk is Sigur Rós’ crowning achievement.  Coming from Iceland, this band has done wonders for ambient musicians around the world.

Do not expect to understand the lyrics in this album, for Jónsi Birgisson uses his own language called Hopelandic.  With his falsetto voice and a very dynamic accompaniment, Sigur Rós has a style of their own.  As I mentioned below I expect ambient music to take me on an adventure

Takk shows that music is not only something that is enjoyable to listen to, but an art form that can be explored over and over again. 

Rating: 5/5
5 Records

Brian Beyke: Four Seasons EP

I wanted to get this up earlier because the release part for this EP is being held in Cincinnati on July 24th at Rohs Street Cafe.  If you enjoy ambient music, I strongly recommend attending if you are in the area.

Brian Beyke is not only a friend of mine from college, but a very talented musician.  Whenever I hear ambient music, my expectation is to be taken on an adventure.  Four Seasons does not disappoint.  As soon as the opening track “Winter” hits the air, you are taken to another place.

Beyke uses a lot of looping and various other effects which gives him a unique mix that is not easily replicable.  Add the talent of this young musicians guitar playing and you have a musician to look out for.  If you are looking for an enjoyable, creative experience, Four Seasons is definitely for you.

The following DIY video is taken of Beyke playing “In Blankets” and “Nine,” neither of which are on Four Seasons.  This is, however, a very good representation for the quality of music you will hear from Brian.  He walks around outside which fits the mood of the song perfectly.  Enjoy.

Rating: 4/5
4 Records