You may know him as the obnoxious comedian from "Funny People." You might know him as the flamboyant helping hand on NBC's "Parks and Recreation." Or you may simply know him from his most "intimate" performance: His first standup CD, "Intimate Moments for a Sensual Evening."
No matter where you know him from, Aziz Ansari, a comedian who is quickly rising, is everywhere. A graduate of New York University, Ansari doesn't do "stupid funny," but rather an intellectual and mind-blowing observational comedy. He's like the 'Lil Wayne of comedy.
He guest-starred in Judd Apatow's movies, starred in "Reno 911" and played with Flight of the Conchords.
Ansari is one of those comedians who has come out of nowhere and has hit a homerun in everything he's attempted. To some, he's that scrawny Indian guy who always gets himself in trouble and this association doesn't bother him; he's already stepped beyond his stereotype, and his first standup CD is proof.
"Intimate Moments" explores Ansari's performances. He talks about working on television shows, hanging out with his celebrity friends like Kanye West and even trying to hit on his celebrity crush, rapper M.I.A.
Clocking in at just under an hour, the album is solid throughout, filled with laughs, groans and the occasional cry of disgust. His delivery is perfect, his stories are true and his dedication is genuine.
Not only will fans of Ansari enjoy the album, but all fans of comedy will appreciate "Intimate Moments" and the awkward moments that ensue.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Man Overboard
Unknown by many, Man Overboard, the newest music sensation to hit the pop-punk scene is making a name for itself and quickly at that. The band has released three demos in the past two years, two of them sold-out EP’s and a split record done with punk band Transit.
This week they are releasing their first full-length album called “Before We Met: A Collection of Old Songs.”
Now it may not be a completely new album, Man Overboard’s following has listed them as Abolsutepunk.net’s band to watch, with more news coming from the band every week. They are already filming their first music video, are getting 100,000 plus hits on their songs on their Myspace and now, have their first in-store release.
The first half of “Before We Met” is the five songs from their out of print EP “Hung Up on Nothing,” and the other five tracks are an eclectic mix of songs that were never released as well as some online tracks.
Only one track on “Before We Met” hits over three minutes. The style and structure of the album is done in the classic punk tradition, making it short, sweet and to the point. They use some of the best gang vocals and chants heard in a long time, as well as catchy choruses and sing along melodies.
The entire album is only the beginning of the band, getting their older material out of the way so they can begin working on a new full-length album, or their debt album that will soon leave listeners stunned.
However there is no news as to when we can expect their debut, “Before We Met” will have to suffice, but it won’t be hard since every track is recorded to perfection.
Check These Songs: “Love Your Friends, Die Laughing,” “Dreaming,” “Arlington Drive”
This week they are releasing their first full-length album called “Before We Met: A Collection of Old Songs.”
Now it may not be a completely new album, Man Overboard’s following has listed them as Abolsutepunk.net’s band to watch, with more news coming from the band every week. They are already filming their first music video, are getting 100,000 plus hits on their songs on their Myspace and now, have their first in-store release.
The first half of “Before We Met” is the five songs from their out of print EP “Hung Up on Nothing,” and the other five tracks are an eclectic mix of songs that were never released as well as some online tracks.
Only one track on “Before We Met” hits over three minutes. The style and structure of the album is done in the classic punk tradition, making it short, sweet and to the point. They use some of the best gang vocals and chants heard in a long time, as well as catchy choruses and sing along melodies.
The entire album is only the beginning of the band, getting their older material out of the way so they can begin working on a new full-length album, or their debt album that will soon leave listeners stunned.
However there is no news as to when we can expect their debut, “Before We Met” will have to suffice, but it won’t be hard since every track is recorded to perfection.
Check These Songs: “Love Your Friends, Die Laughing,” “Dreaming,” “Arlington Drive”
Monday, January 25, 2010
Vampire Weekend Review
If there was a perfect way to start 2009 musically, it definitely would be with Vampire Weekend's sophomore album, "Contra." From the first strum of the guitar, to the last fade out of the lead singers voice, "Contra" is exactly what music needs.
Upon first listening, anyone would think Vampire Weekend, heavily influenced by the Clash, is a pop-punk-inspired British band, but, instead, they are just an incredibly talented group of American musicians with a passion for their indie-rock genre.
It only has been two years since Vampire Weekend made a name for itself in the music industry. Their self-titled debut claimed a number one spot on the charts in 2008 and there are nothing but good rumors surrounding how well "Contra" can do.
Vampire Weekend has subtly changed their sound and feel from their first album. "Contra" features more handclaps and choruses, faster beats, quicker keyboards and even some dog barks.
Originally released on vinyl at the beginning of January, "Contra" now is available digitally and on CD. The first single to kick off the album, "Cousins," was released on 7-inch vinyl and features the b-side "California English Pt. 2."
With only the single, listeners can get a solid feel for the album and explore the quirky, crazy sounds the band can create.
"Contra" is almost an overwhelming 36 minutes of happy, upbeat music, which is generally overlooked lately. The album is sure to please fans of the band and spark new followers just the same.
Check these songs: "Cousins," "Horchata," "California English."
Upon first listening, anyone would think Vampire Weekend, heavily influenced by the Clash, is a pop-punk-inspired British band, but, instead, they are just an incredibly talented group of American musicians with a passion for their indie-rock genre.
It only has been two years since Vampire Weekend made a name for itself in the music industry. Their self-titled debut claimed a number one spot on the charts in 2008 and there are nothing but good rumors surrounding how well "Contra" can do.
Vampire Weekend has subtly changed their sound and feel from their first album. "Contra" features more handclaps and choruses, faster beats, quicker keyboards and even some dog barks.
Originally released on vinyl at the beginning of January, "Contra" now is available digitally and on CD. The first single to kick off the album, "Cousins," was released on 7-inch vinyl and features the b-side "California English Pt. 2."
With only the single, listeners can get a solid feel for the album and explore the quirky, crazy sounds the band can create.
"Contra" is almost an overwhelming 36 minutes of happy, upbeat music, which is generally overlooked lately. The album is sure to please fans of the band and spark new followers just the same.
Check these songs: "Cousins," "Horchata," "California English."
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Owen Pallett Review
Anybody who says new music is dead has never heard of Owen Pallett, better known as the band Final Fantasy.
Pallett is the solo artist behind the massive sound Final Fantasy brings to the indie music scene.
Using his own recording and looping software, Pallett creates a sound that seems like five band members are accompanying him, but in reality, he is playing every instrument.
"Heartland," the third studio album from Pallett, is the first to actually be released under his own name to avoid any more confusion (as well as copyright issues) with the video game of the same name.
The primary concept of the album revolves around heavy use of violin, looping in keyboards, organs, xylophones and a variety of other stringed instruments that the accomplished Pallett can play.
His music knowledge is revealed like a story on "Heartland" and exhibits every aspect of his technical skills.
Pallet is a graduate from the University of Toronto with a degree in honors music theory, which is evident upon first listen.
He has worked with other indie rock musicians such as Grizzly Bear, Arctic Monkeys, Death From Above, 1979 and most recently, the London Metropolitan Orchestra.
At first listen, "Heartland" sounds like a crazy soundtrack to some foreign movie, but delve deeper and you will find the passion and creativity that is incorporated into every track.
Pallett's voice never grates on the nerves, the music never ceases to stop changing and the beats never stop thumping with your heart.
"Heartland" is a wonderfully crafted masterpiece of thought and emotion.
And for those wondering if the same sound can be reenacted in a live show, be prepared, because if you think the album is good, imagine watching Pallett at work.
Pallett is the solo artist behind the massive sound Final Fantasy brings to the indie music scene.
Using his own recording and looping software, Pallett creates a sound that seems like five band members are accompanying him, but in reality, he is playing every instrument.
"Heartland," the third studio album from Pallett, is the first to actually be released under his own name to avoid any more confusion (as well as copyright issues) with the video game of the same name.
The primary concept of the album revolves around heavy use of violin, looping in keyboards, organs, xylophones and a variety of other stringed instruments that the accomplished Pallett can play.
His music knowledge is revealed like a story on "Heartland" and exhibits every aspect of his technical skills.
Pallet is a graduate from the University of Toronto with a degree in honors music theory, which is evident upon first listen.
He has worked with other indie rock musicians such as Grizzly Bear, Arctic Monkeys, Death From Above, 1979 and most recently, the London Metropolitan Orchestra.
At first listen, "Heartland" sounds like a crazy soundtrack to some foreign movie, but delve deeper and you will find the passion and creativity that is incorporated into every track.
Pallett's voice never grates on the nerves, the music never ceases to stop changing and the beats never stop thumping with your heart.
"Heartland" is a wonderfully crafted masterpiece of thought and emotion.
And for those wondering if the same sound can be reenacted in a live show, be prepared, because if you think the album is good, imagine watching Pallett at work.
VH1 Storytellers: Kanye West
VH1 Storytellers has a long history of exploring musical artists' creative side and getting them to open up about the meaning behind their music, influences and what exactly goes through their heads.
So who better to take a closer look at than controversy king Kanye West?
The special CD-DVD of "VH1 Storytellers" featuring West includes live performances of songs from all four of his albums.
Prior to each song, West explains what inspired him to write the piece.
The album features 10 songs, but none are played in a way that listeners are used to. Be prepared to hear some revamping of your favorites, including "Heartless," "The Good Life," "Touch the Sky" and "Stronger."
For a live album, West's attitude and composure prove that his actions, including interrupting Taylor Swift and bashing George Bush, are just things he does to keep his name on everyone's tongue.
Of course, Auto-tune, which so many people have criticized, is used but in moderation -?and in combination with his gritty, yet loveable voice. He talks about how he loves Tenacious D and Jack Black, sings a little off-the-cuff introduction to the album and takes listeners favorites, adding to them and creating almost an entirely new feel.
Whether you love or hate him, West is more than a musician; he's an entertainer. He knows how to keep you interested in his music, with each album differing from the last.
Since its been almost two years since we've heard any new music from West, it's obvious his bad publicity hasn't hindered his musical ch'i. Anyone skeptical of his musical abilities needs to give "Storytellers" a listen. It gives insight to his process and plays like a greatest hits album that's better than any record label could ever compile.
So who better to take a closer look at than controversy king Kanye West?
The special CD-DVD of "VH1 Storytellers" featuring West includes live performances of songs from all four of his albums.
Prior to each song, West explains what inspired him to write the piece.
The album features 10 songs, but none are played in a way that listeners are used to. Be prepared to hear some revamping of your favorites, including "Heartless," "The Good Life," "Touch the Sky" and "Stronger."
For a live album, West's attitude and composure prove that his actions, including interrupting Taylor Swift and bashing George Bush, are just things he does to keep his name on everyone's tongue.
Of course, Auto-tune, which so many people have criticized, is used but in moderation -?and in combination with his gritty, yet loveable voice. He talks about how he loves Tenacious D and Jack Black, sings a little off-the-cuff introduction to the album and takes listeners favorites, adding to them and creating almost an entirely new feel.
Whether you love or hate him, West is more than a musician; he's an entertainer. He knows how to keep you interested in his music, with each album differing from the last.
Since its been almost two years since we've heard any new music from West, it's obvious his bad publicity hasn't hindered his musical ch'i. Anyone skeptical of his musical abilities needs to give "Storytellers" a listen. It gives insight to his process and plays like a greatest hits album that's better than any record label could ever compile.
We The Kings Review
Relatively new to the pop-punk scene, We the Kings' new album proves that the sophomore slump isn't always a given.
Starting off as Hollister soundtrack music along with the likes of Farewell, A Cursive Memory and The White Tie Affair, We the Kings have generated the most success with their Shakespeare-inspired ballad "Check Yes Juliet."
Now, a little bit older and arguably wiser, We the Kings' newest addition to the music scene, "Smile, Kid" is a bigger step in the same direction. The album experiments more with choruses as well as a bigger techno-pop feel.
Already gracing the billboard charts, the first single "Heaven Can Wait" is a perfect example of what listeners can look forward to on the album. Catchy lyrics, high-pitched refrains and synthesizers all contribute to why We the Kings is at the top of their genre.
Those unimpressed with "Heaven" will dislike the rest of the album because much of it features the aforementioned aspects. "Smile, Kid" isn't a relatively deep album and most of the lyrics are straightforward, but it won't disappoint if you're looking for those perfect songs for a mixtape.
Fans of the Kings will especially like the bonus acoustic tracks at the end of "Heaven Can Wait" and "She Takes Me High."
Overall, the album is a decent listen with promising traits that prove pop-punk isn't dead yet. "Smile, Kid" may not make Rolling Stones' list of best albums of 2009, but it will definitely make you smile.
Starting off as Hollister soundtrack music along with the likes of Farewell, A Cursive Memory and The White Tie Affair, We the Kings have generated the most success with their Shakespeare-inspired ballad "Check Yes Juliet."
Now, a little bit older and arguably wiser, We the Kings' newest addition to the music scene, "Smile, Kid" is a bigger step in the same direction. The album experiments more with choruses as well as a bigger techno-pop feel.
Already gracing the billboard charts, the first single "Heaven Can Wait" is a perfect example of what listeners can look forward to on the album. Catchy lyrics, high-pitched refrains and synthesizers all contribute to why We the Kings is at the top of their genre.
Those unimpressed with "Heaven" will dislike the rest of the album because much of it features the aforementioned aspects. "Smile, Kid" isn't a relatively deep album and most of the lyrics are straightforward, but it won't disappoint if you're looking for those perfect songs for a mixtape.
Fans of the Kings will especially like the bonus acoustic tracks at the end of "Heaven Can Wait" and "She Takes Me High."
Overall, the album is a decent listen with promising traits that prove pop-punk isn't dead yet. "Smile, Kid" may not make Rolling Stones' list of best albums of 2009, but it will definitely make you smile.
30 Seconds to Mars
Actor-turned-musician Jared Leto is no stranger to creating albums full of hidden meanings, but things have changed on "This is War," Leto's third album with 30 Seconds to Mars.
Following the series of anti-war, spiritual and political motifs, "War" focuses on individuality. The album cover alone exemplifies this with a contest that was run a few months back called the "Faces of Mars," an entry contest that gave the first 2,000 people the ability to have their faces on the "War" album cover.
The album also focuses on the music more than lyrics. Several songs feature powerful build-ups, minute long breakdowns, and even drawn-out endings.
But don't be mistaken, the lyrics on "War" are equally heavy. With the first track featuring a chorus of "Honest to God I'll break your heart/Tear you to pieces and rip you apart," it's obvious this is no love album.
"War" already has released its first single "Kings and Queens," a track that could start off a break-up mix perfectly. "Kings and Queens" is a relatively upbeat song compared to the rest of the album and actually sounds more like an alt-rock song than a portion of a concept band.
After waiting nearly five years for this album, Leto's creativity and inspiration have developed a hefty record to consume. "War" isn't an album to pop into the car stereo and cruise around town, but more of an album that requires alone time, headphones and some interpretive skills.
Overall, "War" is good album if listeners give it time, but fans will appreciate Leto's work. This definitely isn't the same 30 Seconds to Mars that used to be on VH1.
Following the series of anti-war, spiritual and political motifs, "War" focuses on individuality. The album cover alone exemplifies this with a contest that was run a few months back called the "Faces of Mars," an entry contest that gave the first 2,000 people the ability to have their faces on the "War" album cover.
The album also focuses on the music more than lyrics. Several songs feature powerful build-ups, minute long breakdowns, and even drawn-out endings.
But don't be mistaken, the lyrics on "War" are equally heavy. With the first track featuring a chorus of "Honest to God I'll break your heart/Tear you to pieces and rip you apart," it's obvious this is no love album.
"War" already has released its first single "Kings and Queens," a track that could start off a break-up mix perfectly. "Kings and Queens" is a relatively upbeat song compared to the rest of the album and actually sounds more like an alt-rock song than a portion of a concept band.
After waiting nearly five years for this album, Leto's creativity and inspiration have developed a hefty record to consume. "War" isn't an album to pop into the car stereo and cruise around town, but more of an album that requires alone time, headphones and some interpretive skills.
Overall, "War" is good album if listeners give it time, but fans will appreciate Leto's work. This definitely isn't the same 30 Seconds to Mars that used to be on VH1.
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