I listened to Kanye West’s new album Jesus Is King today. I guess you could say that I’ve casually admired Kanye from afar for the last few years. I’ve appreciated some of his previous hits — just as someone who’s … Continue reading
I’m not good at keeping up on all the latest music trends. I can’t even remember the last time I went to a concert (unless you count a middle school band concert). But my friends and family (special thanks to … Continue reading
It’s that time of year for retrospection. I’ve recently noticed a number of my friends posting on social media about their favorite music from 2018. I suspect this is partly because my friends are really into music and partly because … Continue reading
The word “awesome” must be used with great caution, when you’re a man in my position. Middle-aged, balding, father of pre-teens… the word on my lips can sound out-of-touch and anachronistic. I do well to use the word “awesome” only … Continue reading
Weird Al Yankovic has been all over the internet this week. He’s best known for his parodies, which he’s been putting out since the early 1980s. His most recent batch of releases includes some clever ones such as “Word Crimes” (a parody of … Continue reading
“All come to look for America… All come to look for America.” This is what the song says, at least. Travelers come looking for America… observing the journey’s strange little incidental details like the man in the gaberdine suit with … Continue reading
My most distinct memory of the modern musical rendition of “Hallelujah” happened in the attic of an old canal-house in Amsterdam. Chris Smith. 2003. The musician was a highly-talented guitarist and vocalist, but he was also a friend and co-worker … Continue reading
Back in 1991, MC Hammer’s song “2 Legit 2 Quit” was just about the coolest thing I could possibly imagine. Bursts of flame, a driving chorus chant, choreographed hand motions, and cameo appearances by some of the greatest athletes of … Continue reading
We hosted our first social event in Kent yesterday evening: a simple pasta dinner with a few friends, followed by walking to a concert downtown, just on the other side of the Cuyahoga River. Over the Rhine was in town, … Continue reading
When the director raised her baton and summoned the sounds of the 5th Grade wind instruments, the result was surprisingly reminiscent of a large, brass bee-hive. Not necessarily unpleasant, but not entirely musical either. Just a vague, sustained-but-unsettled pitch. So … Continue reading