I think that there may be something to your volume theory as it pertains to my late awakening to Amie. I’ve found that music, and movies as well, take on a higher level of intensity when heard through headphones.

I usually preview songs through iTunes. I did find the C/net site for free MP3 downloads http://music.download.com/?tag=navtab

It’s mostly indie and lower profile stuff, but that’s where the quality can usually be found if you’re willing to sift through it. I’ve downloaded over 20 free songs over the past couple of weeks. I highly recommend it.

Thanks for commenting,
Dan

A little music listening advice. No matter what the song is I have found that it is greatly enhanced by doing one thing………turning it up……loud!……to eleven!

Unless you have some seriously expensive equipment it is typically not sophisticated enough to bring out the subtleties in music to the point where you can get the true flavor of what the song is. Often times, music can become background noise as opposed to the focus of your attention. The best attention getter is to crank it up and enjoy it as it was meant to be.

Is it possible Dan that this was the case with you and the song “Amie?”

A few suggestions for those who like up-tempo stuff to exercise to:

“She” – The Kiss version is awesome, the Anthrax cover is super awesome. (I’m willing to bet that you would even break down and enjoy it Dan)

“Dirty Water Ocean” – By Green
Apple Quick Step

Several (“Walking Through Syrup”, “Spring”, “Intact”) by “Ned’s Atomic Dustbin” off the “Are You Normal” CD.

“Butt Town” – Iggy Pop

“Knock Me Down” – Red Hot Chili Peppers (Possibly the best song ever created)

Questions? Comments? Complaints?

I use a web site called “All Music Guide” to get info on, and sample music from, various bands. Anyone have other good sites for this endeavor?

It’s “JERRY Was a Racecar Driver”, not Johnny, although I’m not sure THAT’s the actual name of the song either.

I saw Primus at Lollapalooza ‘93 and of course I’m familiar with My Name is Mud, but I’ve never owned any of their work.

You know, you could have named your sons after the Beasties instead of naming them after hockey players. But then you would have two named Adam, which might lead to some confusion.

Dan

By the way, have you ever just sat down and listened to a Primus CD ? Funky.

Keep the cards and letters rolling.

Chazz

That’s an interesting mix of the mainstream with the alternative. I suspect that you’re conservative by nature, but have been influenced by some very hip friends over the years. There’s also a strong NY/NJ vibe in your selections. Do you know a guy named Taggart?

Thanks for commenting,
Dan

1. With or Without You – U2: is it about a troubled love or the battle with drug addiction? Who knows, who cares, just a great song.

2. Winona’s Big Brown Beaver – Primus: the title says it all. One of the funniest videos you will ever see as well. Great bass lines.

3. New Years Day – U2: the more things change, the more they stay the same. Their best song.

4. Pictures of You – The Cure: underated new wave, great song, great in concert.

5. Midnight Rider – Allman Bros: the lonely road, being alone sucks. Smoke ‘em if you got ‘em.

6. Layla – Derek and the Dominos: lusting after your best friends wife, how nice is that. Also figures prominently in my favorite movie, GoodFellas.

7. Jane Says – Jane’s Addiction: just a simple gal looking for love. Very cool live version.

8. Brass Monkey – Beastie Boys: funny, funny, funny. So funny, it’s my wife’s ring tone on her cell. My kids dig it, don’t know what the heck it means though.

9. Been Caught Stealing – Jane’s Addiction: the kids like the barking dog at the begining of the song.

10. Voodoo Child – Stevie Ray Vaughn: remake of Hendrix classic. Best guitar riff at the beginning.

11. Born to Run – Springsteen: can’t go wrong with an all-time classic. The fun of being young.

12. Fire – Jimmis Hendrix: just listen to the drums in this one. Also played well in “Less than Zero” as Robert Downey Jr is getting baked out of his mind in a club.

13. Alive and Kickin’ – Simple Minds: going back to the college days on this one. Just a cool song.

14. The One I Love – REM: their best song. Is it about love or lack-there-of ?

15. Spirit of the Radio – RUSH: some of the best musicians talking about the power of radio.

16. End of the World As We Know It (and I Feel Fine) – REM: the all time greatest song to slam dance to.

17. So What’Cha Want – Beastie Boys: my kid’s favorite song ever. The old man likes it too.

18. Check It Out – Mellencamp: about not wanting to grow old.

19. London Calling – The Clash: an all time punk classic.

20. I Wanna Be Sedated – Ramones: being out on the road with nothing to do for far too long. Along with the Clash, they helped start the “punk/new wave/alternative” music scene.

So there it is, a pretty wide mix of songs and styles. Chew on that for a while……..Chaz