Janelle Monáe is an amazing singer, dancer, and performer. Her new song, “Tightrope” is a showcase of her talents as well as of the awesome moves her dancers have up their sleeves. She also gives really exciting and memorable live performances, creating a whole world and persona in her albums and shows.
One of the Youtube comments on her video for “Tightrope” which I think describes it well says, “She’s not bringing something new, but something old. She’s reminding us why wool is superior to polyester,” (user: kitchenlattice). As I see it, she’s bringing us a new, rejuvenated version of something old and it’s beautiful, pure talent.
There’s something really refreshing about The Dead Weather, the way they perform, the music they sing – kind of a funky punk grunge, different from song to song. Excellent beats, raw vocals and a simple no-frills dedication to the music that I feel like I haven’t seen in awhile. The filming of the live songs is also great – the black & white, high contrast really suits them well.
More videos here.
Preservation Hall Jazz band has been doing some awesome new collaboration work for a new benefit album, Preservation.
The complete roster of artists includes: Louis Armstrong, Andrew Bird, Terence Blanchard, Pete Seeger, Dr. John, Blind Boys of Alabama, Brandi Carlile, Cory Chisel, Ani DiFranco, Steve Earle, Merle Haggard, Richie Havens, Jason Isbell, Jim James, Angelique Kidjo, Amy LaVere, Del McCoury, Bobby McFerrin, Buddy Miller, Paolo Nutini, and Tom Waits. (link)
All the details of who they’re working with and what songs they’re covering are here and here. You’ll surely be hearing more about this, because it’s some great stuff.
And this here is the song + animated music video to their recent recording of St. James Infirmary with King Britt.
Big hiatus, but it’s summer again and we’re back. First order of business is: Curumin. Following much in the tradition of Tropicália, Curumin is a modern Brazilian artist who plays funky jazz-rock with elements of the Brazilian classics, samba and bossa nova. Not only is the music fun and danceable, but the Portuguese words are of course beautiful. Enjoy a few songs!
Guerreiro
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Tudo Bem Malandro
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This little Santa Cruz trio needs to be better known by all. They have great talent in such a simple form, with guitar, banjo, and double bass. Their music is a modern version of folky bluegrass, so have a listen. The first is one of their most popular songs, Old Number Seven, and the second is another of my favourites, called The Plank.
Old Number Seven
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The Plank
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kalatva, the Sanskrit word for melody, is a music blog, with a variety of styles and tastes represented. We have very expansive musical interests, and want to share our discoveries with the world.