Happiness in Magazines

Friday, June 11, 2004 » music thought

Three albums I completely overplayed last week two weeks ago:

1. Graham Coxon - Happiness in Magazines - If you were wondering where Blur disappeared to during last year's disappointing (for a Blur album) Think Tank, you'll probably appreciate this fifth album from the group's former guitarist. I actually thought Graham was the bass player, but after listening to Happiness in Magainzes it is clear he is definitely the guitarist. (I have this hilarious made-up conception of Alex James as Blur's dreamy-yet-dimwitted guitar robot, but that's another story.) "Bittersweet Bundle of Misery" is remniscent of 13's ever-popular "Coffee and TV," and "Freakin' Out" is a much better rock single than "Crazy Beat" or "Woo Hoo" "Song 2."

2. Kinky - Atlas - Kinky is the only new band I heard at Coachella that I really liked. In addition to their crazy electric beat! on "Do U Like It?", their keyboardist (yes, the keyboardist) was jumping around furiously and appeared to be headbanging himself to death. The rest of the album has a lot of variety, and there's even an appearance by the guy from Cake. Also they are MEXICAN.

3. Richard Cheese - Lounge Against the Machine - I don't think this album was meant for regular rotation on a playlist. I often find myself wanting to quote lines from songs on it, but then I'm afraid people probably won't tie them to Mr. Cheese's more ironic versions. I wouldn't want anyone to think that I'm a fan of Limp Bizkit. Or Radiohead!!!!!!!!!!!!!
   

And now a related thought: Do you think members of a band ever get sick of hearing the lead singer? Suppose he and the drummer just had some minor argument and then they go back to the studio to record another track. The drummer's probably back there wishing the singer would shut up, but I doubt the singer's thinking, oooh, that infernal drumming!