After three acclaimed albums—Funeral (2004), Neon Bible (2007), and The Suburbs (2010)—the expectations for Arcade Fire’s fourth album were exceptionally high, particularly when it was announced this one would be a double album. On The Suburbs, Win Butler and Co. … Continued
1. Cursive handwriting is almost a thing of the past, a fact that is bemoaned by many people. Check out this piece in Prospect about the “Curse of Cursive Handwriting.” My sentiments exactly. 2. Here is an interesting piece from … Continued
It’s been another exciting year, and we want to thank you all for reading and, if applicable, posting comments on our blog. Once again, we would like to close out the year with some summary remarks about good and bad … Continued
In his 2009 song “I Feel a Change Coming On,” Bob Dylan sings, “I’m listening to Billy Joe Shaver and I’m reading James Joyce.” When I first heard that line I didn’t know who Billy Joe Shaver was. Since then, … Continued
I vaguely recall about five years ago reading a rave review of the first Manchester Orchestra album, I’m Like a Virgin Losing a Child. Strange name for an album, I thought. The reviewer noted what a strong songwriter the front … Continued
2011 was another exciting year, and we want to thank you all again for reading and, if applicable, posting comments on our blog. Here are our annual summary remarks about good and bad stuff related to film, music, books, politics, … Continued
Goodbye, Congressman Weiner — The last two weeks have we’ve seen American public life sink to a new low. Finally, with Weiner’s resignation, we have some closure. I was astonished at how many people defended the guy when the story … Continued
My latest musical obsession is the Black Keys. Consisting of just two remarkably talented guys, Patrick Carney and Dan Auerbach, they have pumped out six albums over the last eight years which have earned them increasing critical acclaim. Their style … Continued
It’s been another exciting year, and we want to thank you all for reading and, if applicable, posting comments on our blog. Once again, we would like to close out the year with some summary remarks about good and bad … Continued
I don’t listen to much rap or hip-hop music and over the years have only observed from afar the popular and critical acclaim for such artists as Jay-Z, 2Pac, Nas, Dr. Dre, Public Enemy, and Kanye West. My musical preferences … Continued