With a Buzz in Our Ears, We Play Endlessly (January 31st, 2009)

First official post. The new writing layout is going to be more expansive and less constrained to one particular artist. Every article will include a specific song that has recently caught my attention and a brief album review in the same rating system as my previous blog. However, in the Tilt column, the album's overall score on Metacritic.com will determine the point value. Additionally, the opening paragraph will discuss musical perceptions throughout the week, segments on music history or bizarre incidences in the music world (today, however, it will simply entail the details for future entries). Articles will be published as often as possible, most likely in a weekly fashion. For now, here are the first entries:

Featured Song: Inní mér Syngur Vitleysingur by Sigur Ros

Hauntingly uplifting, undeniably a song that will be stuck in your head for days. The Icelandic post-rock legends strike an unfamiliar chord with this song (off their new record, Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust), moving towards an obtuse, direct orchestral sound rather than their traditional minimalism. It begins with what sounds like a 40's broadcast of horn music and moves directly into a powerful xylophone/strings combination that is quickly joined by higher brass. Eventually the song levels out at the middle, but gradually begins to build. A repetitive chorus in Icelandic guides you as progressively more and more instruments join the fold. Eventually the song explodes into a powerful, almost violent, climax that leaves the listener beyond satisfied and wanting more. All in all, fantastic song.

New Release: Slumdog Millionaire: Official Soundtrack to the Motion Picture.

Released: December 21, 2008
Every once in a while, a feel-good story takes your breath away and leaves you feeling nothing but joy. This year, that story is Slumdog Millionaire. Slumdog tells the tale of a boy from the streets of India who, through a series of remarkable incidents, wins 20 million rupees on the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. Much like the film, the soundtrack garners vast attention and high praise from critics. A.R. Rahman's score makes the slums outside Mumbai seem as wonderous as they are dangerous, combining traditional eastern instruments with modern, upbeat techno. Sri Lankan electronic superstar M.I.A. provides three tracks to the film, including her world famous Paper Planes and O...Saya, a powerful track that sets the mood early and never lets go. All in all, much like its Best Picture-nominated accompanying film, the soundtrack to Slumdog Millionaire was equally a breathtaking spectacle.

Overall: 8.5/10

Sound: 9
Quality: 8
Lyrics: 8
Impression: 10
Production: 8
Tilt: 8