20.03 - Sister Hazel - Champagne High (5:20)
Alright, it's time for me to finally do some spotlighting on what has been my favorite band of the decade. I am prepared to receive any and all stones thrown my way . . . I realize that this isn't the musical taste of most here. I, however, do appreciate a good pop-rock tune with a catchy and poignant chorus, especially when it is accompanied by incredible vocal harmonies - much like what the Eagles were able to do in the 70's.
The fact that this band isn't among the biggest and most popular bands in the world today is in my opinion a travesty, and a tribute to the big money marketing schemes of major record labels. This band, of course, did rise to stardom rapidly in 1997 with the top ten hit, "All For You" and had platinum success with that record. Their follow-up album "Fortress" went gold off the success of songs such as the one above. However, the band was unhappy with the stringent guidelines that were put forth by their record label - they wanted to tour more extensively, play smaller and more intimate venues, write songs on the road and release material when they felt they were ready for a new record. In a nearly unprecedented move, they were released from their contract and allowed go the independent route despite their previous success.
Since going the independent route, Sister Hazel released four amazing albums. The lack of a major label backing them is the only reason I can surmise for them to not have hit after hit - especially when some of their "counterparts" in the alterna-pop era from the late 90's such as Matchbox 20 and Counting Crows have continued chart success into the new millenium.
I present this to you as a sampling of their music. Unfortunately, on a quick search here at work with Youtube blocked I was unable to find a video - and it may be best that I didn't, as the official video to this song is a high concept video with outrageous costumes that isn't true to the band's roots and very representative of the constrictions of a major label that they ultimately rebelled against. I was able to find a last.fm
link where you can listen to the track. I also am not certain that this is the best representation of their music this decade, I can think of numerous songs I enjoy as much or more than this one. However, the theme of this song fit my mix better than any others.
Now that this has been put out there, feel free to flame away.