MAD - Artist - Round 4 - #1's have been posted (26 Viewers)

[Uruk-Hai]

28.
Everybody Hurts- R.E.M.
from Automatic For the People (1992)

This (along with Stand) to me is a song that is divisive for R.E.M. fans., but for different reasons. While Stand is just annoying pop song, Everybody Hurts is just too over the top emotionally. I get it... Im sure its probably the most skipped song on AFTP. It is a completely naked song about universal pain, and how we all need to be assured sometimes the holding on is better than letting go. You can hear and feel every single word that Stipe sings...and that this sort of vulnerability makes people uncomfortable is obvious from the common urge to dismiss it or laugh it off. In '93 this song seemed to oversaturated the airwaves and MTV, but looking back I find this song be worthy of praise and deserves to be on my list.

This - to me - is miles better than "Stand", which sounds like a novelty record from the '70s that Bo Donaldson & The Heywoods were too busy to record.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

28.
Everybody Hurts- R.E.M.
from Automatic For the People (1992)

This (along with Stand) to me is a song that is divisive for R.E.M. fans., but for different reasons. While Stand is just annoying pop song, Everybody Hurts is just too over the top emotionally. I get it... Im sure its probably the most skipped song on AFTP. It is a completely naked song about universal pain, and how we all need to be assured sometimes the holding on is better than letting go. You can hear and feel every single word that Stipe sings...and that this sort of vulnerability makes people uncomfortable is obvious from the common urge to dismiss it or laugh it off. In '93 this song seemed to oversaturated the airwaves and MTV, but looking back I find this song be worthy of praise and deserves to be on my list.

This - to me - is miles better than "Stand", which sounds like a novelty record from the '70s that Bo Donaldson & The Heywoods were too busy to record.

Also, I love songs where the singer is pouring his/her heart out (as long as the arrangement fits). I'm an Otis Redding fan, after all.

 

[kupcho1]

The Clash

kupcho1

This is England This is England The Clash · Cut The Crap · Song · 1985 open.spotify.com

This is England is the first (and spoiler: only) selection from 1985's Cut the Crap. BTW, I'm not the only one that agrees that it is the only song from their last release that merits inclusion.
From Songfacts:

The atmosphere around the writing of Cut the Crap, the final Clash album and the only one the group produced after firing founder member Mick Jones and drummer Topper Headon, was notoriously difficult and edgy. Singer Joe Strummer would go on to basically ignore the whole period of 1984-5 as not even part of The Clash canon, except for "This Is England," which he regarded as his "last great Clash song." Guitarist of the period Nick Sheppard remembers a recording session where he added bass to the track and Joe describing it as "the only bit of the record (presumably describing the entire Cut the Crap album) with any bollocks on it!"

This is the Clash (although really?, having fired Mick and Topper) at their domestic best.

The lyrics, some of Joe Strummer's best, is a state-of-the-nation address for Britain as Strummer discusses the ills he sees around him - including the collapse of the British motorcycle production industry ("Black shadow of the Vincent falls on a Triumph line"), the harsh South Atlantic winter of 1984 that had seen many Britons die in freezing conditions ("South Atlantic wind blows, ice from a dying creed"), the wave of jingoistic patriotism that had accompanied Britain's victory in the Falklands War ("I see no glory, when will we be free"), and traditional old Clash themes of protest, police oppression and disillusionment ("Those British boots go kick Bengali in the head, police sit watchin', the newspapers been read, who cares to protest").

This is England
We can chain you to the rail
This is England
We can kill you in a jail

 

[Uruk-Hai]

The Clash

kupcho1

This is England This is England The Clash · Cut The Crap · Song · 1985 open.spotify.com

This is England is the first (and spoiler: only) selection from 1985's Cut the Crap. BTW, I'm not the only one that agrees that it is the only song from their last release that merits inclusion.
From Songfacts:

The atmosphere around the writing of Cut the Crap, the final Clash album and the only one the group produced after firing founder member Mick Jones and drummer Topper Headon, was notoriously difficult and edgy. Singer Joe Strummer would go on to basically ignore the whole period of 1984-5 as not even part of The Clash canon, except for "This Is England," which he regarded as his "last great Clash song." Guitarist of the period Nick Sheppard remembers a recording session where he added bass to the track and Joe describing it as "the only bit of the record (presumably describing the entire Cut the Crap album) with any bollocks on it!"

This is the Clash (although really?, having fired Mick and Topper) at their domestic best.

The lyrics, some of Joe Strummer's best, is a state-of-the-nation address for Britain as Strummer discusses the ills he sees around him - including the collapse of the British motorcycle production industry ("Black shadow of the Vincent falls on a Triumph line"), the harsh South Atlantic winter of 1984 that had seen many Britons die in freezing conditions ("South Atlantic wind blows, ice from a dying creed"), the wave of jingoistic patriotism that had accompanied Britain's victory in the Falklands War ("I see no glory, when will we be free"), and traditional old Clash themes of protest, police oppression and disillusionment ("Those British boots go kick Bengali in the head, police sit watchin', the newspapers been read, who cares to protest").

This is England
We can chain you to the rail
This is England
We can kill you in a jail

This is a brutal record. It makes the Pistols' "God Save The Queen" sound like a lullaby.

 

[-OZ-]

Also, I love songs where the singer is pouring his/her heart out (as long as the arrangement fits). I'm an Otis Redding fan, after all.

Well yeah. Otis is awesome.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

28.

Song: Wait Up
Artist: Uncle Tupelo
Album: March 16-20,1992
Year: 1992

Are you surprised it's me
Hope I didn't wake anybody
Honey, please wait up for me
I miss you more than I need sleep

Uncle Tupelo was an alt-country music group from Illinois, active between 1987 and 1994. Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy, and Mike Heidorn formed the band after the lead singer of their previous band, The Primitives, left to attend college. The trio recorded three albums for Rockville Records, before signing with Sire Records and expanding to a five-piece. Shortly after the release of the band's major label debut album Anodyne, Farrar announced his decision to leave the band due to a soured relationship with his co-songwriter Tweedy. Uncle Tupelo split on May 1, 1994, after completing a farewell tour. Following the breakup, Farrar formed Son Volt with Heidorn, while the remaining members continued as Wilco.

Although Uncle Tupelo broke up before it achieved commercial success, the band is renowned for its impact on the alternative country music scene. The group's first album, No Depression, became a byword for the genre and was widely influential. Uncle Tupelo's sound was unlike popular country music of the time, drawing inspiration from styles as diverse as the hardcore punk of The Minutemen and the country instrumentation and harmony of the Carter Family and Hank Williams.

This is simple guitar picker with sparse and simple lyrics that feels old-timey and indictive of Uncle Tupelo’s sound.

 

[titusbramble]

I also would not have Everybody Hurts particularly high in the list

 

[New Binky the Doormat]

#28 - Todd Rundgren featuring Robyn - That Could Have Been Me​

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

m.youtube.com

Producer - Todd Rundgren
Writer - Todd Rundgren
Chart Positions - Not released as single
Album - White Knight
Year - 2017

Collaborator History - Oddly Rundgren reached out to Robyn and said “With Robyn, I wrote a song that I imagined would work for her. I recorded the basics of it and gave it to her to sing”

Key Lyric -
But I will swallow my pride
(What will be will be)
And you’ll roll over at night
(Tell me what you see)
That empty pillow by your side
(That could have been me)
That could have been me

Notes - Shoutout to @New Binky the Doormat This was the track chosen by Mr Rundgren to announce his new album featuring tons of collaborations by the likes of Daryl Hall, Joe Satriani, Donald Fagen, Joe Walsh and Trent Raznor.

When I first heard it, I didn’t think it had a shot of making the final 31. It barely cracked the top 77. Everytime I cut the list down, it survived. 63, 54, 48, 41, 36. I even had it pencilled in as the #36 track, but I did a straight swap between the track I had at #28 - Robyn, La Bagatelle Magique - Love Is Free ft. Maluca. I felt the softer touch of this track was better in the list than another dance track. Although the dance track had a nice pillow fight video.

From Pitchfork
On “That Could Have Been Me,” Rundgren hands the microphone to Robyn, an artist who’s inspiredmany of pop music’s most memorable recent comebacks, from Carly Rae Jepsen’s E•MO•TION to Lorde’s “Green Light.” But unlike those ecstatic, neon-lit anthems, “That Could Have Been Me” is a smooth serenade, a late night R&B throwback that wouldn’t sound out of place on an early 2000s Mariah Carey album. While many of Robyn’s post-Body Talk collabs have found her stretching out and shaking things up, here she plays it straight. With his sleepy synths and ghostly harmonies, Rundgren cozily complements her tale of loneliness. Together, two visionaries from different generations sound content to meet somewhere in the middle, finding inspiration in each other’s comfort zones.

Next up - A track that launched a record label and its title may get censored here.

I will be paying close attention since my themed countdown is songs produced by Todd Rundgren.

You might need to give it a few listens. Sometimes a song thats a grower misses out and this one almost did with me
I cant tell you how close i was to not including it in my top 77. It crept in at #76 first go.
And kept surviving every cut.

so many of Todd's albums have hit me that way - first listen could be a couple of "wows" and plenty of meh ...and then it hits after a few listens and invariably the initial "mehs" become favorites over the more popular ones

 

[Leroy Hoard]

29 and 28 numbers that I liked:

Another One Goes By - The Walkmen
Going For The One - Yes
(Nothing But) - Talking Heads
Good Thoughts, Bad Thoughts - Funkadelic
This Is England - The Clash
Crystallize - Lindsey Stirling
Rocky Mountain Way - Triumph
Red Hot - Motley Crue
Love You Inside Out - Bee Gees
Shake It Up - Ringo

 

[-OZ-]

Uncle Tupelo was an alt-country music group from Illinois, active between 1987 and 1994. Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy, and Mike Heidorn formed the band after the lead singer of their previous ban

I like uncle Tupelo and didn’t realize this was the same dude.

 

[Eephus]

Uncle Tupelo was an alt-country music group from Illinois, active between 1987 and 1994. Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy, and Mike Heidorn formed the band after the lead singer of their previous ban

I like uncle Tupelo and didn’t realize this was the same dude.

You'd think one of your visitors from Kansas would have tipped you off because Illinois isn't that far away.

 

[Tau837]

Eddie Vedder

Tau837

Amongst the Waves - YouTube Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. www.youtube.com

"Amongst the Waves" is a Pearl Jam song from their 2009 album "Backspacer." It peaked at #17 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart in 2010.

While Pearl Jam’s work often deals with themes of societal critique and introspection, this track leans into a more hopeful perspective. Written by Eddie, the song is framed with oceanic and surfing imagery, symbolic of life’s ebb and flow. Vedder, an avid surfer, uses the ocean as a metaphor for facing and overcoming struggles, capturing the feeling of renewal that comes from facing one's fears.

The song centers on overcoming personal struggles and emerging stronger, a universal theme of finding clarity and peace after periods of hardship. Riding the waves represents facing challenges directly rather than avoiding them, embodying both strength and acceptance. The lyrics suggest that peace is found within, depicted as a place where one feels tethered and secure. This sense of belonging and stability contrasts with the chaotic nature of life’s metaphorical waves.

Musically, "Amongst the Waves" is a soaring rock anthem with Eddie's powerful vocals set against emotive guitar riffs and dynamic percussion. The song builds with intensity, capturing the spirit of triumph in the lyrics. The instrumentals add to the feeling of riding waves, with crescendos mirroring the rise and fall of surf. This combination of lyrics and sound creates a visceral experience of resilience and transcendence.

Amongst the Waves received praise from fans and critics alike for its introspective yet optimistic outlook. Many listeners found the song relatable, resonating with its themes of perseverance. The track highlights Pearl Jam’s range, showcasing their ability to convey complex emotions through both lyrical depth and musical intensity.

Hope you enjoyed it.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

Uncle Tupelo was an alt-country music group from Illinois, active between 1987 and 1994. Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy, and Mike Heidorn formed the band after the lead singer of their previous ban

I like uncle Tupelo and didn’t realize this was the same dude.

A good amount of their songs are sung by Jay Farrar.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Uncle Tupelo was an alt-country music group from Illinois, active between 1987 and 1994. Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy, and Mike Heidorn formed the band after the lead singer of their previous ban

I like uncle Tupelo and didn’t realize this was the same dude.

A good amount of their songs are sung by Jay Farrar.

Yep. In UT, Tweedy was Mic #2, in the parlance of one of the categories from the never-ending Genrepalooza 4.

 

[Yo Mama]

Eddie Vedder

Tau837

Amongst the Waves - YouTube Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. www.youtube.com

"Amongst the Waves" is a Pearl Jam song from their 2009 album "Backspacer." It peaked at #17 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart in 2010.

While Pearl Jam’s work often deals with themes of societal critique and introspection, this track leans into a more hopeful perspective. Written by Eddie, the song is framed with oceanic and surfing imagery, symbolic of life’s ebb and flow. Vedder, an avid surfer, uses the ocean as a metaphor for facing and overcoming struggles, capturing the feeling of renewal that comes from facing one's fears.

The song centers on overcoming personal struggles and emerging stronger, a universal theme of finding clarity and peace after periods of hardship. Riding the waves represents facing challenges directly rather than avoiding them, embodying both strength and acceptance. The lyrics suggest that peace is found within, depicted as a place where one feels tethered and secure. This sense of belonging and stability contrasts with the chaotic nature of life’s metaphorical waves.

Musically, "Amongst the Waves" is a soaring rock anthem with Eddie's powerful vocals set against emotive guitar riffs and dynamic percussion. The song builds with intensity, capturing the spirit of triumph in the lyrics. The instrumentals add to the feeling of riding waves, with crescendos mirroring the rise and fall of surf. This combination of lyrics and sound creates a visceral experience of resilience and transcendence.

Amongst the Waves received praise from fans and critics alike for its introspective yet optimistic outlook. Many listeners found the song relatable, resonating with its themes of perseverance. The track highlights Pearl Jam’s range, showcasing their ability to convey complex emotions through both lyrical depth and musical intensity.

Hope you enjoyed it.

This was really good. Not sure why I stopped listening to PJ after the first three albums.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Eddie Vedder

Tau837

Amongst the Waves - YouTube Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. www.youtube.com

"Amongst the Waves" is a Pearl Jam song from their 2009 album "Backspacer." It peaked at #17 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart in 2010.

While Pearl Jam’s work often deals with themes of societal critique and introspection, this track leans into a more hopeful perspective. Written by Eddie, the song is framed with oceanic and surfing imagery, symbolic of life’s ebb and flow. Vedder, an avid surfer, uses the ocean as a metaphor for facing and overcoming struggles, capturing the feeling of renewal that comes from facing one's fears.

The song centers on overcoming personal struggles and emerging stronger, a universal theme of finding clarity and peace after periods of hardship. Riding the waves represents facing challenges directly rather than avoiding them, embodying both strength and acceptance. The lyrics suggest that peace is found within, depicted as a place where one feels tethered and secure. This sense of belonging and stability contrasts with the chaotic nature of life’s metaphorical waves.

Musically, "Amongst the Waves" is a soaring rock anthem with Eddie's powerful vocals set against emotive guitar riffs and dynamic percussion. The song builds with intensity, capturing the spirit of triumph in the lyrics. The instrumentals add to the feeling of riding waves, with crescendos mirroring the rise and fall of surf. This combination of lyrics and sound creates a visceral experience of resilience and transcendence.

Amongst the Waves received praise from fans and critics alike for its introspective yet optimistic outlook. Many listeners found the song relatable, resonating with its themes of perseverance. The track highlights Pearl Jam’s range, showcasing their ability to convey complex emotions through both lyrical depth and musical intensity.

Hope you enjoyed it.

This was really good. Not sure why I stopped listening to PJ after the first three albums.

Because you didn’t like No Code?

 

[Yo Mama]

Eddie Vedder

Tau837

Amongst the Waves - YouTube Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. www.youtube.com

"Amongst the Waves" is a Pearl Jam song from their 2009 album "Backspacer." It peaked at #17 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart in 2010.

While Pearl Jam’s work often deals with themes of societal critique and introspection, this track leans into a more hopeful perspective. Written by Eddie, the song is framed with oceanic and surfing imagery, symbolic of life’s ebb and flow. Vedder, an avid surfer, uses the ocean as a metaphor for facing and overcoming struggles, capturing the feeling of renewal that comes from facing one's fears.

The song centers on overcoming personal struggles and emerging stronger, a universal theme of finding clarity and peace after periods of hardship. Riding the waves represents facing challenges directly rather than avoiding them, embodying both strength and acceptance. The lyrics suggest that peace is found within, depicted as a place where one feels tethered and secure. This sense of belonging and stability contrasts with the chaotic nature of life’s metaphorical waves.

Musically, "Amongst the Waves" is a soaring rock anthem with Eddie's powerful vocals set against emotive guitar riffs and dynamic percussion. The song builds with intensity, capturing the spirit of triumph in the lyrics. The instrumentals add to the feeling of riding waves, with crescendos mirroring the rise and fall of surf. This combination of lyrics and sound creates a visceral experience of resilience and transcendence.

Amongst the Waves received praise from fans and critics alike for its introspective yet optimistic outlook. Many listeners found the song relatable, resonating with its themes of perseverance. The track highlights Pearl Jam’s range, showcasing their ability to convey complex emotions through both lyrical depth and musical intensity.

Hope you enjoyed it.

This was really good. Not sure why I stopped listening to PJ after the first three albums.

Because you didn’t like No Code?

Yeah, I think that’s it.

 

[-OZ-]

Uncle Tupelo was an alt-country music group from Illinois, active between 1987 and 1994. Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy, and Mike Heidorn formed the band after the lead singer of their previous ban

I like uncle Tupelo and didn’t realize this was the same dude.

A good amount of their songs are sung by Jay Farrar.

This is what happens when you listen to music and pay practically zero attention to anything other than the song.

 

[Mister CIA]

Uncle Tupelo was an alt-country music group from Illinois, active between 1987 and 1994. Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy, and Mike Heidorn formed the band after the lead singer of their previous ban

I like uncle Tupelo and didn’t realize this was the same dude.

A good amount of their songs are sung by Jay Farrar.

This is what happens when you listen to music and pay practically zero attention to anything other than the song.

I hear the same happens with Billy Bragg.

 

[Mt. Man]

I’ve been a bit under the weather most of the day (likely just sinus cold, but still). So I’ll keep this even shorter. I enjoyed lots of the #28s, though.

Selected (and shuffled) Favorites:
The Balancer’s Eye - Lord Huron
Crystalize - Lindsay Stirling
Run It - My Morning Jacket
Amongst the Waves - Pearl Jam (/Eddie Vedder)
Beautiful Child - The Eurythmics (/Annie Lennox)
Under the Water - The Pretty Reckless
That Could Have Been Me - Robyn & Todd Rundgren
Tempus Fugit - Yes
Red Hot - Motley Crue

Shuffle Adventures:
It felt like the end section of Journey’s “People” help set up the beginning for “I Feel You” from Johnny Marr.

 

[Tau837]

Listened to the #28 playlist a couple times. Other than my own song:

• Favorites already known to me:
  • REM - Everybody Hurts -- I saw the earlier posts about this song and Stand... IMO EH >>>>> Stand
• Favorites new to me:
  • The Pretty Reckless - Under the Water -- although this was my least favorite TPR song so far, it still makes my list... 4 for 4

For my taste, this was the weakest playlist so far. I'm sure the rest will be better.

 

[krista4]

Also, I love songs where the singer is pouring his/her heart out (as long as the arrangement fits). I'm an Otis Redding fan, after all.

Maybe this is why, but I love and believe this song, too.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Also, I love songs where the singer is pouring his/her heart out (as long as the arrangement fits). I'm an Otis Redding fan, after all.

Maybe this is why, but I love and believe this song, too.

The intent behind the song may have been a bit calculated -- hey, let's make a "slow song at the high school dance" song but put a bunch of Zeitgeist-y sentiments in it -- but the performance is absolutely heartfelt and genuine.

 

[MAC_32]

Eddie Vedder

Tau837

Amongst the Waves - YouTube Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. www.youtube.com

"Amongst the Waves" is a Pearl Jam song from their 2009 album "Backspacer." It peaked at #17 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart in 2010.

While Pearl Jam’s work often deals with themes of societal critique and introspection, this track leans into a more hopeful perspective. Written by Eddie, the song is framed with oceanic and surfing imagery, symbolic of life’s ebb and flow. Vedder, an avid surfer, uses the ocean as a metaphor for facing and overcoming struggles, capturing the feeling of renewal that comes from facing one's fears.

The song centers on overcoming personal struggles and emerging stronger, a universal theme of finding clarity and peace after periods of hardship. Riding the waves represents facing challenges directly rather than avoiding them, embodying both strength and acceptance. The lyrics suggest that peace is found within, depicted as a place where one feels tethered and secure. This sense of belonging and stability contrasts with the chaotic nature of life’s metaphorical waves.

Musically, "Amongst the Waves" is a soaring rock anthem with Eddie's powerful vocals set against emotive guitar riffs and dynamic percussion. The song builds with intensity, capturing the spirit of triumph in the lyrics. The instrumentals add to the feeling of riding waves, with crescendos mirroring the rise and fall of surf. This combination of lyrics and sound creates a visceral experience of resilience and transcendence.

Amongst the Waves received praise from fans and critics alike for its introspective yet optimistic outlook. Many listeners found the song relatable, resonating with its themes of perseverance. The track highlights Pearl Jam’s range, showcasing their ability to convey complex emotions through both lyrical depth and musical intensity.

Hope you enjoyed it.

This is heart breaking, do I remember right this is the only backspace cut to make your list

 

[MAC_32]

Lighter note, love how much positive feedback there is for Happiness & The Fish. One of my favorites from them - that falsetto

 

[Pip's Invitation]

28. Rocky Mountain Way
Album: Rock & Roll Machine (Canadian version, 1977, and International version, 1978)
Writers: Joe Walsh, Joe Vitale, Kenny Passarelli and Rocke Grace
Lead vocals: Gil Moore
Chart History: Did not chart
Video?: No
Lyrical category: N/A

I'm not only behind on listening, but on writeups. Luckily this one won't take long, as it's a pretty faithful cover of a song that every middle-aged dummy should know.

Really the only major differences between Joe Walsh's original and Triumph's cover of "Rocky Mountain Way" is that Gil Moore sings the word "lady" differently from Walsh (he doesn't stretch it out like Walsh does), and Rik Emmett uses fewer effects on his guitar than Walsh does (but the solo beginning around 3:40 is distinctively in Emmett's style). And there's no electric piano, I guess. But this is the kind of song where the wheel doesn't really need to be reinvented. It's a staple of "classic rock" for a reason.

It also played a big role in breaking Triumph into America. This was the song from their first American album (titled Rock & Roll Machine, like their second Canadian album) that RCA pushed to radio stations, and the promotion paid off in some markets (especially in Texas and the Midwest), laying the ground for the commercial breakthrough of the Just a Game album the following year.

I had no idea Triumph covered this song until they opened their encore with it when I saw them in the fall of 1986 in Philly. (I didn't have either version of the Rock & Roll Machine album yet and the FM stations in Philly didn't play it.) It was a pleasant surprise, and you're damn right that everyone around me was singing along wholeheartedly, metalheads, stoners and geeks alike.

"Rocky Mountain Way" is one of Triumph's most-played live songs, appearing consistently, if not on every leg of every tour, between 1978 and 1993, and also surfacing at the band's two 2008 reunion shows as well as at some of Rik Emmett's solo shows.

Live at Canada Jam in 1978 (segues into a drum solo), which was the largest audience the band had played for up to that point: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxvEv6EB980
Live version from 1981, broadcast for the King Biscuit Flower Hour: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-HoybRcCjM
Live version from 1985: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11X8YENdVKk
Live version from the A Night of Triumph DVD, filmed in 1987: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLUZ91jMMJ0
Live version from 1993, after Rik Emmett left the band: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iZEogXWcbs
Live at Sweden Rock Festival in 2008: https://open.spotify.com/track/0bGTlEpRYzpUyweKwxnorf?si=b4159e4584ff463b

At #27, another song that helped the band win over American fans.

 

[Tau837]

Eddie Vedder

Tau837

Amongst the Waves - YouTube Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. www.youtube.com

"Amongst the Waves" is a Pearl Jam song from their 2009 album "Backspacer." It peaked at #17 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart in 2010.

While Pearl Jam’s work often deals with themes of societal critique and introspection, this track leans into a more hopeful perspective. Written by Eddie, the song is framed with oceanic and surfing imagery, symbolic of life’s ebb and flow. Vedder, an avid surfer, uses the ocean as a metaphor for facing and overcoming struggles, capturing the feeling of renewal that comes from facing one's fears.

The song centers on overcoming personal struggles and emerging stronger, a universal theme of finding clarity and peace after periods of hardship. Riding the waves represents facing challenges directly rather than avoiding them, embodying both strength and acceptance. The lyrics suggest that peace is found within, depicted as a place where one feels tethered and secure. This sense of belonging and stability contrasts with the chaotic nature of life’s metaphorical waves.

Musically, "Amongst the Waves" is a soaring rock anthem with Eddie's powerful vocals set against emotive guitar riffs and dynamic percussion. The song builds with intensity, capturing the spirit of triumph in the lyrics. The instrumentals add to the feeling of riding waves, with crescendos mirroring the rise and fall of surf. This combination of lyrics and sound creates a visceral experience of resilience and transcendence.

Amongst the Waves received praise from fans and critics alike for its introspective yet optimistic outlook. Many listeners found the song relatable, resonating with its themes of perseverance. The track highlights Pearl Jam’s range, showcasing their ability to convey complex emotions through both lyrical depth and musical intensity.

Hope you enjoyed it.

This is heart breaking, do I remember right this is the only backspace cut to make your list

No, there is one more from Backspacer.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

Also, I love songs where the singer is pouring his/her heart out (as long as the arrangement fits). I'm an Otis Redding fan, after all.

Maybe this is why, but I love and believe this song, too.

The intent behind the song may have been a bit calculated -- hey, let's make a "slow song at the high school dance" song but put a bunch of Zeitgeist-y sentiments in it -- but the performance is absolutely heartfelt and genuine.

I'm more of a "performance" guy than an "intent" guy. I don't care that you're writing an allegory about.....whatever, or that you're going for a hit record. Sell it to me on an emotional level that feels true, and I've got a chance of being in. I don't trust artists' versions of the meanings behind their works anyway.

 

[kupcho1]

Time for a random walk down the playlist. For #28

The Airborne Toxic Event

Zegras11

Numb Numb The Airborne Toxic Event · All At Once · Song · 2011 open.spotify.com

I have absolutely know recollection of ever hearing a TATE song before. I have no idea why as this has a shoegazy feel (at least to me) and that should be in my wheelhouse. I like this song. I haven't added it to an annual list as we're so early on (and I see another tune on this release that has orders of magnitude more listens; not that that is a driving factor, but ...).

The Walkmen

Scoresman

The Blue Route The Blue Route The Walkmen · You & Me · Song · 2016 open.spotify.com

Big Walkmen fan but missed this entire release for some reason. I guess they quit showing up on release radar and with the tsunami of new music, was lost in the shuffle. Good tune / my loss.

Ringo Starr

krista4

Shake It Up Shake It Up Ringo Starr · Give More Love · Song · 2017 open.spotify.com

Uh, what was the name of that rule again? Thumper?
This one didn't land, but it's early yet.
Anyway, good vocals for a 77 year old. I hope I can belt out a song like that when I'm that old (assuming I live that long; he's still kicking, right?)
Music is also very good. No surprise there as (per Wiki)

The album features Starr's frequent collaborators such as Joe Walsh, Dave Stewart, Gary Nicholson and Bob Malone, members of his All-Starr Band, and guest appearances by Starr's former Beatles bandmate Paul McCartney.

Also from Wiki

Current members​

As of 2023 the band lineup includes the following members:

• Ringo Starr – vocals, drums, piano (1989–present)
• Colin Hay – guitar, harmonica, vocals (2003, 2008, 2018–present)
• Hamish Stuart – bass, guitar, vocals (2006–2008, 2019–present)
• Edgar Winter – keyboards, saxophone, percussion, vocals (2006–2011, 2022–present)
• Gregg Bissonette – drums, percussion, trumpet, backing vocals (2008–present)
• Steve Lukather – guitars, bass, vocals (2012–present)
• Warren Ham – saxophone, percussion, keyboards, harmonica, vocals (2014–present)

Now that's an impressive lineup!

That's it for this round. I think I'll only do 3 a playlist as I'm starting earlier than last time.

 

[-OZ-]

28 overall gets a B. Solid, enough to make me want more.

Known likes:
This is England - clash
Return to water - gorgeous reckless
Wait up - uncle Tupelo

New likes
Sossego - Tim Maia
I feel you Jonny Marr
The end is where we - our lady peace
Beatiful child - Annie, eurythmics

 

[Yambag]

28's

Known
Johnny Marr, Crue, Whitney, REM, Bee Gees

New to Me Favorites
Under the Water - The Pretty Reckless
Our Lady Peace - The End is Where We Begin
Airborne Toxic Event - Numb
Lord Huron - The Balancer's Eye
Pearl Jam - Amongst the Waves

 

[Raging weasel]

The 28's

Known and liked songs

This Is England
Rocky Mountain Way
Red Hot
All At Once
Everybody Hurts

New to me likes

Three Years Ago Today
I Feel You
People
Run It
Do That Stuff
Amongst The Waves

Undecided

This goes for all the tracks by The Airborne Toxic Event and Lord Huron. So far I haven't minded their songs but nothing has really grabbed me. Neither is in my musical wheelhouse and they seem to be good at what they do so I'm still glad they are in this round.

To me,this was the weakest round so far

 

[Dr. Octopus]

28

Five New

• Numb - The Airborne Toxic Event
• Run It - My Morning Jacket
• Do That Stuff - Parliment
• Tell the Engineer - Fred Eaglesmith
• I Feel You - Johnny Marr

Five Known

• People - Journey
• Everybody Hurts - R.E.M.
• Nude - Radiohead
• This is England - The Clash
• N/A (not sure I knew anything else before today)

Not much to say - not feeling this round really for the most part. I think generally in this MAD, while I did find a few new bands that I have enjoyed there isn't those 2-4 artists that I can't wait to listen to their individual playlists at the end like in the other three MADs that I took part in. The closest here is My Morning Jacket, but I knew a lot of their stuff before and have wanted to dig deeper for a while.

 

[KarmaPolice]

28

Five New

• Numb - The Airborne Toxic Event
• Run It - My Morning Jacket
• Do That Stuff - Parliment
• Tell the Engineer - Fred Eaglesmith
• I Feel You - Johnny Marr

Five Known

• People - Journey
• Everybody Hurts - R.E.M.
• Nude - Radiohead
• This is England - The Clash
• N/A (not sure I knew anything else before today)

Not much to say - not feeling this round really for the most part. I think generally in this MAD, while I did find a few new bands that I have enjoyed there isn't those 2-4 artists that I can't wait to listen to their individual playlists at the end like in the other three MADs that I took part in. The closest here is My Morning Jacket, but I knew a lot of their stuff before and have wanted to dig deeper for a while.

Not singling you out, as this seems to be comment from a few people. Are there bands, subgenres that you or others would like to see in this format?

For me it seems I get a decent mix of: bands I know a lot about and love (Radiohead/Vedder), bands I new or know from a couple albums but didn't dig deeper (Candlebox), and stuff I end up liking but never heard of or bothered to listen to (Triumph, Tim Maia). I guess I asked this round because P-Funk would have been on my wishlist, as would be bands like Yes and others that have a big intimidating catalogue that I would prefer a guide to.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

Not singling you out, as this seems to be comment from a few people. Are there bands, subgenres that you or others would like to see in this format?

In the past it was more that a few artists popped for me and I was excited to listen to their playlist at the end and in some cases dive deeper. Some examples were Frank Black, Big Thief, Roger Clyne, Silver Jews, Damon Albarn, and Elliot Smith where I still listen to those playlists sometimes. So far I really like the Walkman and Pretty Reckless but not to that extent yet.

Not trying to be negative- overall I am enjoying this and I look forward to the next list - and yes it is a good mix and I like being stretched musically. I’ll try and not really bring it up again as it’s not the message I wanted to convey.

 

[KarmaPolice]

Not singling you out, as this seems to be comment from a few people. Are there bands, subgenres that you or others would like to see in this format?

In the past it was more that a few artists popped for me and I was excited to listen to their playlist at the end and in some cases dive deeper. Some examples were Frank Black, Big Thief, Roger Clyne, Silver Jews, Damon Albarn, and Elliot Smith where I still listen to those playlists sometimes. So far I really like the Walkman and Pretty Reckless but not to that extent yet.

Not trying to be negative- overall I am enjoying this and I look forward to the next list - and yes it is a good mix and I like being stretched musically. I’ll try and not really bring it up again as it’s not the message I wanted to convey.

I didn't take it as being negative, no worries there. There are going to be rounds and playlists that don't click with people as much. I will say that as I listen to the playlist, the "tone" is fairly similar and I find it runs together a little more than past playlists. In that sense I have found previous rounds more interesting or ear catching while listening. Now wait, Round 5 will be an overcorrection in weirdness. But like I posted, as with other Rounds there is still a lot of great music and discoveries I never would have gotten to on my own.

 

[KarmaPolice]

So if I warm up to The Clash a bit more, how much of my 'reggae' box does that allow me to check off?

 

[Eephus]

So if I warm up to The Clash a bit more, how much of my 'reggae' box does that allow me to check off?

I think you'll need some real Jamaicans for that merit badge.

 

[-OZ-]

Are there bands, subgenres that you or others would like to see in this format?

I think a main benefit of these count downs is the diverse music we share.
In that light, I’m debating for next round 4 artists.
1. A bluegrass band from Canada.
2. Alt country from Texas
3. Folk rock / soft pop rock from Germany who had success in the 70s.
4. Dutch singer, pop swing type.

I’d almost put this to a vote. Leaning 4, but 3 will be more recognizable and popular.

 

[KarmaPolice]

So if I warm up to The Clash a bit more, how much of my 'reggae' box does that allow me to check off?

I think you'll need some real Jamaicans for that merit badge.

Well there goes 95% of my ideas.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

So if I warm up to The Clash a bit more, how much of my 'reggae' box does that allow me to check off?

I think you'll need some real Jamaicans for that merit badge.

Well there goes 95% of my ideas.

You can probably check off ska, at least.

 

[Mister CIA]

Not singling you out, as this seems to be comment from a few people. Are there bands, subgenres that you or others would like to see in this format?

In the past it was more that a few artists popped for me and I was excited to listen to their playlist at the end and in some cases dive deeper. Some examples were Frank Black, Big Thief, Roger Clyne, Silver Jews, Damon Albarn, and Elliot Smith where I still listen to those playlists sometimes. So far I really like the Walkman and Pretty Reckless but not to that extent yet.

Not trying to be negative- overall I am enjoying this and I look forward to the next list - and yes it is a good mix and I like being stretched musically. I’ll try and not really bring it up again as it’s not the message I wanted to convey.

There will be a few misses along the way, but i think you will find Fred Eaglehouse suits you well, if not already. There about 10 or so I think hit really hard, though they are all down the line.

 

[Mister CIA]

I gotta admit, I do have an itchy fast-forward on many songs, and I feel kind of guilty for not sharing the load because I use everyone else's commentary in here as cheat codes based upon what I know of everyone's taste.

Sorry but it works really well for me.

 

[KarmaPolice]

So if I warm up to The Clash a bit more, how much of my 'reggae' box does that allow me to check off?

I think you'll need some real Jamaicans for that merit badge.

Well there goes 95% of my ideas.

You can probably check off ska, at least.

Is there some sort of conversion rate? Maybe 1 ska + 1 dub = reggae badge?

 

[kupcho1]

I’d almost put this to a vote. Leaning 4, but 3 will be more recognizable and popular.

4 sounds intriguing.

 

[Mister CIA]

So if I warm up to The Clash a bit more, how much of my 'reggae' box does that allow me to check off?

I'm with you on reggae. Just small doses, except for Toots Maytal. He has always amazed.

I once stayed at a 4-star Holiday Inn (in Bahrain, true story), across the street from a small arena where the Wailers were supposed to be playing. I didn't pay it much mind and put no effort into attending. Came home pretty buzzed one night and as soon as I walked in the room I heard loud music coming from the hotel swimming pool. Looked out my window - and there were the Wailers playing at top decibel. I walked outside and stood 10 feet from the stage and watched them play for about an hour. Now that I think about it, that ranks up there. It was 1987 and they probably sounded a lot like this:

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

www.youtube.com

Edit: Toots AND THE Maytals. Sheesh

 

[Eephus]

You can probably check off ska, at least.

Tchk-a-Tchk-a

 

[Dr. Octopus]

Not singling you out, as this seems to be comment from a few people. Are there bands, subgenres that you or others would like to see in this format?

In the past it was more that a few artists popped for me and I was excited to listen to their playlist at the end and in some cases dive deeper. Some examples were Frank Black, Big Thief, Roger Clyne, Silver Jews, Damon Albarn, and Elliot Smith where I still listen to those playlists sometimes. So far I really like the Walkman and Pretty Reckless but not to that extent yet.

Not trying to be negative- overall I am enjoying this and I look forward to the next list - and yes it is a good mix and I like being stretched musically. I’ll try and not really bring it up again as it’s not the message I wanted to convey.

There will be a few misses along the way, but i think you will find Fred Eaglehouse suits you well, if not already. There about 10 or so I think hit really hard, though they are all down the line.

I’ve liked what I’ve heard so far.

 

[jwb]

Mötley Crüe

JWB

Red Hot Red Hot Mötley Crüe · Shout At The Devil · Song · 1983 open.spotify.com

Off Shout at the Devil, this kicks off side two and is probably the closest to their previous album in sound. It has the more professional, polished sound that marked the second / other 80's albums, but still retained a little of that raw punk sound. True to their typical lyrics, it's essentially a youth fight song (paraphrased to the common trope "we're loud and crude and we're here and deal with it").

 

[zamboni]

Mötley Crüe

JWB

Red Hot Red Hot Mötley Crüe · Shout At The Devil · Song · 1983 open.spotify.com

Off Shout at the Devil, this kicks off side two and is probably the closest to their previous album in sound. It has the more professional, polished sound that marked the second / other 80's albums, but still retained a little of that raw punk sound. True to their typical lyrics, it's essentially a youth fight song (paraphrased to the common trope "we're loud and crude and we're here and deal with it").

Nice - haven't heard this one in a long time. SOTD got so much play on my boom box back then, right up there with Pyromania and Metal Health.