The Playlist – November 2014

Music is a little like food and clothes. These are areas where it’s probably worthwhile for one to explore & expand their tastes. The Playlist is assembled each month by Dappered’s very own music correspondent, Tim Johnstone. Tim is a former Virgin Records Label Rep & current award winning Program Director at KRVB, which was awarded the FMQB AAA station of the year markets 50+. You can also catch his work on Fridays when he assembles the Weekend Dossier. 

 

Foo Fighters – “Something From Nothing”

Dave Grohl appears to be morphing before our eyes into the biggest thing in Rock N Roll. The Sound City documentary, the soundtrack collaborations to the documentary, the new HBO show all paved the way for Sonic Highway, the Foo Fighter’s fist new album in years. It seems like it was worth the wait. Now when are we going to get another Them Crooked Vultures album?

 

Wu-Tang Clan – “Ruckus in B Minor”

I’m just going to leave this here. I am to understand that this is a very big deal. All I know is that I’m enjoying it.

 

Lorde – “Yellow Flicker Beat”

Points to Lorde for sticking with her now familiar formula: a moody melody that warms with repeated listens, production that is both expansive yet closed in, and a hook that sticks with you. Then there’s this, which got the singer’s seal of appeal.

 

PVRIS – “St. Patrick”

This Massachusetts’ band runs their high energy melodic rock through an EDM filter. This is very much an emerging genre. I can see this end up on some gym playlists. Unlike the Scottish band Chvrches, the V serves as an upside down A (an adaptation based on a legal dispute).

 

The Smashing Pumpkins – “Being Beige”

First things first, Tommy Lee is now drumming for Billy Corgan and Co. At least on the two records The Smashing Pumpkins will release in the next year. That’s the second thing. There will be two albums. Monuments to an Elegy and Day For Night. “Being Beige” represents the more melodic softer side of the band. Another track from the sessions, “One and All,” features a more robust guitar arrangement.

 

Imagine Dragons – “I Bet My Life”

Imagine Dragons don’t do subtle, and that’s alright. I realize that these guys are everywhere these days. But, having met them on a number of occasions, I really respect how they’re doing this whole thing. Polite beyond words, they’re bringing some positive energy to rock and they are connecting with people who don’t normally like their sort of thing. Not going to hate on them for that.

 

Sleater-Kinney – “Bury Your Dead”

If you never liked the Riot Grrrl movement, the reunion of the genre’s biggest band won’t mean much. But Sleater-Kinney’s return has been a pretty big deal, including a box set of re-issues, a sold out tour and a fiery return to form with this new single.

 

Bush – “Loneliness Is A Killer”

I have always given Gavin Rossdale the benefit of the doubt. I’m not sure why. I think it has something to do with how much he got hated on during the 90’s. Bush have provided their share of memorable rock and it seems like they’re still at it. This is latest from the band.  Also, if you missed Gavin in this, drop what you’re doing and watch it for crying out loud. Holy Shotgun!

 

Chvrches – “Dead Air”

Their debut album Bones of What You Believe was one of my favorite releases from last year. This is just more goodness from them. Scottish synth pop hasn’t sounded this great since Altered Images.

 

THE CLASSIC: Miles Davis – “Kind Of Blue”

This record is essential to any collection. It is the MVP at dinner parties. For many, it is the perfect sexy-times soundtrack. It is also one of the most influential albums ever released. But don’t take my word for it. Give it a listen.

For previous editions of The Playlist, see the growing archive here.