Holidays Schedule Announcement

Dear readers and passersby,

In the spirit of the holiday season, I will be posting my take on the classic "25 Days of Christmas."  There will be a twist though, so tune in to find out!

Happy Holidays 💗

- Lauren

November Set List

November Set List

1.  Blue on Black

2.  Nothing But the Night

3.  Dark Road

4.  Criminal Mind

5.  Arrival*

*Calm break from electric energy

6.  Planet Earth

7.  I Wish

8.  Cosmic Monkey

9.  Girls on Film

10.  Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough

Do you have any favorites from this list?  Would you add any songs?  What would be your set list?

Let me know by leaving a comment at the end of this post!

zZounds Saturday - Guitar Shop

Due disclosure - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Saturday, I am featuring a guitar shop - from electric guitars (including Epiphone, Gibson, Fender, and many more) to acoustic guitars (noted for beginners and highly recommended) to essential accessories to guitar amps and so much more!

Are you a pro looking to add to your collection?  Are you a beginner looking for the perfect guitar to practice what you are learning, hone your growing skills, and launch your desired career as a guitarist?  Are you shopping for a travel companion?  Are you in need of a left-handed guitar?  Or are you simply in need of accessories?

Bonus question - What is your take on folk instruments and folk instrument accessories?

My answer to all of your questions can be found in the link below -

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/cat--Guitars-Amps-and-Effects--2543

On Set List, zZounds primarily revolves around guitars and drums.  

On this last day of November, the zZounds guitar shop seems fitting to cap off the month.

Explore and enjoy!

Set List Special - The Fast Camels Review

Set List offers a daily theme -

Mondays are Astronaut2005 Drummer cover v. Original Performance.

Tuesdays are duets.

Wednesdays are Reader zZounds Favorites.

Thursdays are Fashion Sense.

Fridays are Reader Top Pick.

Saturdays and Sundays are devoted to zZounds affiliate promotions.

Let's focus on today - Reader Top Pick Friday...with one exception - the top pick is a review of the Scottish band, The Fast Camels.

Question - Who are The Fast Camels?

Answer - The Fast Camels are a Glasgow, Scotland-based band heavily influenced by 1960's U.S. and UK Psychedelic Rock, Freakbeat, and Powerpop.

Side question - How are these genres defined?

Answer - 

- Psychedelic Rock is inspired by psychedelic culture and the mind-altering experiences of psychedelic drugs.

- Freakbeat is a sub genre of rock and roll with origins in UK rock, beat, rock and roll, psychedelia, and freak scene.  The freak scene genre has an interesting and extensive background, so read further on Wikipedia.

- Powerpop is a form of pop rock reflected early on by The Who, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and The Byrds.  A full background can be found on Wikipedia.

Let's go back to The Fast Camels.

The band made their debut in 2007 with the album, The Magic Optician.  They performed locally before landing gigs throughout the UK.  The album quickly landed airplay in the U.S. and Canada.

The current members include -

Drew Sturgeon - Vocals, Guitar

Mark O'Conner - Guitar, Vocals

Andy Rennie - Bass, Vocals

Joe Smith - Drums, Vocals

Craig Jenkins - Percussion

Fast forward to the present and my reason for review - the band's fourth studio album - Full of Strange is due for release on December 2, 2019.

Let's stay with Full of  Strange for review.

Track Listing

1.  Blissful Serenity

2.  Caught In A Dream

3.  Full of Strange

4.  Storyteller

5.  Misty

6.  The Wedding

7.  Don't Know Where To Begin

8.  Sordid Dreams

9.  Family Tree

10.  The Curious Tale Of Peeping John Foley

11.  Honeymoon

12.  Statue On The Hill

My initial impression of The Fast Camels is 1960's British invasion sound with a blend of modern day edgy and psychedelic instrumental.

Although some musicians leave song meaning up to listeners, most suggest meaning behind lyrics.  This is my sense behind the Full of Strange album.  For example, "Blissful Serenity," "Storyteller," and "The Wedding" tell stories of  one-off romance or romance not meant to be.

"Don't Know Where To Begin" is a defining song in the Psychedelic Rock genre with instrumental offering a feel of drug trip.  The vocals in "Family Tree" offer the same sense.  

"The Curious Tale of Peeping John Foley" is rather deceptive - while the song maintains a calm pace, I find the lyrics to be rather dark.

"Honeymoon" is by far the most intense in instrumental and perhaps in response to "The Wedding."

The songs described above stand out the most.  

The genres that The Fast Camels fit into are, honestly, unfamiliar to me.  All three relate directly to 1960's West Coast America and England.  I am one generation removed and am set with the genres I have grown up with.

With that said, The Fast Camels as a band and the Full of Strange album set for release on December 2nd should in no way be dismissed.  

I take occasional detours on Set List to promote my Avon business and fashion blogs.  However, I maintain always that Set List is fundamentally about music - all genres and in all formats.  I maintain always that Set List taps into one common global interest - music.  

I may not be familiar with Freakbeat and Powerpop, but perhaps someone else in the United States or in another country is and enjoys the unique sound.  

Global unification - this is the power of music.

In conclusion, I am giving The Fast Camels a positive review and recommendation.  

Fashion Sense Thursday

In this edition of Fashion Sense Thursday, I am blending royalty and fashion as the ultimate fashion sense, leaving fans worldwide desiring to copy her look.

An excellent example of royalty and fashion - The Givenchy Fashion House in Paris is a highly regarded preference for the Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle.

Meghan did stay local to London with British designer, Stella McCartney, designing her reception dress.

On May 19, 2018, Meghan Markle shined in two upscale preferences   HRH has since gone on with further interest in Givenchy.

An example of Givenchy style -

In this Fashmates look book - the V-Neck Shift Dress, Suede Pointed-Toe Pumps, and Dahlia Divin Le Nectar De Parfum are by Givenchy.  (The leather bag is by Roland Mouret.  The earrings are by Isabel Marant.  The royal hat is by Philip Treacy.)

A precise Givenchy style worn by Meghan Markle is -

Givenchy cream sheath dress with capelet

Custom made by Clare Waight Keller (Meghan's wedding gown designer)

(Accessories and jewelry worn with this dress can be found on the blog, Meghan's Fashion.)

Meghan's Fashion also offers "Shop Meghan's Closet" and "Meghan's Makeup."

In the end, the Duchess of Sussex perfectly blends royalty and fashion.

Reader zZounds Favorite - Yamaha Folk Acoustic Guitar

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of Wednesday Special - Reader zZounds Favorite, your choice is the Yamaha JR2 3/4-Size Folk Acoustic Guitar (with Gig Bag).

zZounds offers two approaches to this Yamaha Folk Acoustic Guitar - for novice beginners and for compact road trips.

If you are a beginner with serious interest in growing your skill set toward professional status, the cost of this guitar - $169.99 - is worth the investment.

As a refresher, follow the link below to explore and shop or simply enjoy out of curiosity!

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--YAMJR2

Duet Tuesday

In this edition of Duet Tuesday, I am featuring a unique take on duet - Joe Piscopo as Frank Sinatra and Eddie Murphy as Stevie Wonder.  Their version of "Ebony and Ivory" is a classic on 1980's Saturday Night Live.

As the iconic quote goes -

Live from New York, it's Saturday night!

All She Wants Is

In this edition of Astronaut2005 Drummer v. Original, I am featuring "All She Wants Is" as the cover and as performed originally by Duran Duran.

Curious question - What do you think of the cover performance?  Leave a comment to share your thoughts!

Astronaut2005 Drummer

Duran Duran

zZounds Sunday - Drum Accessories

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Sunday, I am featuring any drummer's requisite accessories.

Examples of drum accessories on zZounds include -
- Drum sticks
- Drum bags
- Drum cymbal bags and cases
- Brushes
- Drummer gloves
...and so much more

From beginner to professional, drum accessories are a must to complete the ultimate kit.

Explore and enjoy the link below!

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/cat--Drum-Accessories--2464

As always,
Play it!

zZounds Saturday - Yamaha Folk Acoustic Guitar

Due disclosure - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Saturday, I am featuring a unique instrument that is ideal for beginners and when on the road.

The cost is relative at $169.99 but with the guitar being so versatile in use and matching every level of playing ability, the price tag is one to consider...as is the brand.

Yamaha JR2 3/4-Size Folk Acoustic Guitar (with Gig Bag)

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--YAMJR2

If you are seriously interested in learning how to play the guitar - an acoustic guitar - follow the link above.  If you want a travel companion, follow the ink above.  If you are just curious, explore and enjoy the link above.  Either way, know that you cannot go wrong with the Yamaha brand!

If Yamaha is a preferred brand with go-to instruments, take note of the feature in today's zZounds Saturday.

As always,

Play it!

Reader Top Pick - Duran Duran Pop Quiz

Dear readers and passersby,

In this edition of Reader Top Pick (formerly Friday Fave), your chosen post for this week dates to February of this  year!  In demand, then, is Duran Duran Pop Quiz.

In short, the post included a YouTube video of John Taylor and Simon Le Bon testing just how well they still know each other since Duran Duran's early years.  You would be surprised...

On that note, 
Happy Friday!

Fashion Sense Thursday

In this edition of Fashion Sense Thursday, I am blending royal and fashion as the ultimate combination inspiring profound wish lists by fans worldwide.

An excellent example of royal and fashion - The Alexander McQueen Fashion House in London is a highly regarded preference for the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton.

(Source - abcnews)

(Source - Town and Country Magazine)

On April 29, 2011, Kate's interest came to the forefront.  Creative Director of the Alexander McQueen Fashion House, Sarah Burton, designed both Kate's wedding gown and evening reception dress.  HRH has since gone on to wear other McQueen styles - namely the noted coat dress.

An example of Alexander McQueen coat dress -

(Source - Harper's Bazaar)

The blush pink Alexander McQueen coat dress was worn to a Buckingham Palace Garden Party in the spring of 2019.

The best source to explore the Duchess of Cambridge's fashion is from the blog,

Kate Middleton Style - from the most recent to the archives.  The hope of copying Kate's wardrobe is also a feature on the blog.

Kate Middleton's formal wear is bespoke - designed just for her.  Replicas are hard to come by.  Relaxed outfits are easier to find.  

In the end, the Duchess of Cambridge perfectly blends royal and fashion.

Reader zZounds Favorite - Roland Pro Electronic Drums

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of Wednesday Special - Reader zZounds Favorite, your choice is the Roland TD-50K Redefined V-Drum Pro Electronic Drums.

zZounds quote -

"To match your talent and ambition, the Roland TD50K offers unparalleled expression for performance, demanding practice sessions, and pro studio work."

From tech to stage and exploring all that the Roland TD-50K has to offer in between, this pro electronic drum kit truly is best for professionals.

Whether you are a pro cover band or a professional on tour, the price tag of $4,999.99 is a worthy and affordable investment.  

If you are a beginner with aspiration to become a pro, simply explore for inspiration.

As a refresher, follow the link below to explore and shop or simply enjoy out of curiosity!

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--ROLTD50K

Duet Tuesday

In this edition of Duet Tuesday, I am featuring music history with Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder as they perform "Ebony and Ivory."

"Ebony and Ivory" is a unique song for Paul McCartney as it was a feature on his 1982 album, Tug of War.  I say "unique" because McCartney's "Say Say Say" duet with Michael Jackson was also a feature on Tug of War...

Refer to Wikipedia for details about Tug of War.

On Wikipedia, the literal meaning would be ebony black and ivory white keys on a piano.  The fundamental meaning behind "Ebony and Ivory" of course is racial harmony and integration.

"Ebony and Ivory" Honors -

- No. 1 on UK and U.S. charts

- 4th biggest hit of 1982

- No. 59 on Billboard's Greatest Hits of all Time (2008)

- No. 69 on Billboard Hot 100 songs of all time (2013)

"Ebony and Ivory" Critical Reception -

You really don't want to know.

(Wikipedia)

Welcome Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder.

West End Girls

In this edition of Astronaut2005 Drummer v. Original, I am featuring "West End Girls" as the cover and as performed originally by the Pet Shop Boys.

Curious question - What do you think of the cover performance?  Leave a comment to share your thoughts!

Astronaut2005 Drummer

Pet Shop Boys

zZounds Sunday - Roland Pro Electronic Drums

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Sunday, I am featuring the Roland Pro Electronic Drums.  

According to zZounds, this set offers -
- a natural, detailed sound and feel
- pro studio work
- choice for serious drummers
- practice features
- play genuine snare techniques
- explore traditional cymbal techniques
...and so much more

The short version of longer details.  Follow the link below for the longer details.

The Roland Pro Electronic Drums are very seriously meant for professional drummers who have the practice studio space to match and who have a wealth of experience on stage in front of an audience.

The price tag...$4,999.99

If you are a professional drummer looking to diversify your kits between drum shell and electronic, the Roland Pro Electronic Drums are an excellent investment that, I'm guessing, you can afford at this point.  Just consider the link below.

If you are a beginner, explore the link below for inspiration.

Enjoy -

Roland TD-50K Redefined V-Drum Pro Electronic Drums

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--ROLTD50K?siid=191255

As always,

Play it!

zZounds Saturday - Epiphone Acoustic

Due disclosure - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Saturday, I am featuring a standard Epiphone acoustic guitar and a limited edition Epiphone acoustic guitar.  Whether you are learning to play or looking to add an exclusive limited edition to your collection, you cannot go wrong with the Epiphone guitars shown below.

On zZounds, an acoustic guitar is "perfect for beginners just learning how to play."  Learn from the best - Epiphone style.

Epiphone DR100 Acoustic Guitar
$139

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--EPIDR100

Watch the Epiphone DR100 Acoustic Guitar in action -

If you are seriously interested in learning how to play the guitar, consider the link above.  If you are just curious, explore and enjoy the link above.  Either way, know that you cannot go wrong with the Epiphone brand!

...Speaking of which, consider the Epiphone Exclusive Limited Edition DR100 Acoustic Guitar.

This version is ideal for both beginners and professionals, as noted by Epiphone.  Why is this guitar special?  Budget-friendly at $149.

If you are seriously interested in the Epiphone guitar selection, consider the following link.  If you are just curious, explore and enjoy the link below.

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--EPIDR100LE

Imagine launching your career as a guitarist at the most basic level.  Can you see yourself playing an Epiphone?  If yes, then take note of the feature in today's zZounds Saturday.

As always,

Play it!

Reader Top Pick - Duet Tuesday

Dear readers and passersby,

In this edition of Reader Top Pick (formerly Friday Fave), your chosen post for this week is Duet Tuesday.

In short, the Duet Tuesday edition earlier this week featured "Say Say Say" as performed by Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson.

The song received impressive honors, from a range of global Top 10 to Gold, Silver, and Platinum certifications worldwide...just to name a few.

On that note,
Happy Friday!

Fashion Sense Thursday

In this edition of Fashion Sense Thursday, I am blending prestigious and fashion as the upmost combination inspiring wish lists by fans worldwide.

An excellent example of prestigious and fashion - Tom Ford is an exclusive preference for Chris Botti.

(Source - Houston Chronicle)

In a 2010 interview with the Houston Chronicle, Chris Botti described his fashion sense especially for stage performances.  

Botti expressed interest in Tom Ford suits and Louis Vuitton shoes.  "I've never seen a better-cut suit."

Botti feels that Ford's suits -

- "fit the body well" 

- "are also made of great fabric" 

- "doesn't lose its shape"

- "doesn't crinkle"

When wearing a suit on stage -

"I feel great, and I think the audience sees it."

Color preference -

"Black or dark navy suit with a black tie."

"...cuffs open and unbuttoned..."

(The full interview can be found here.)

And there you have it - Fashion Sense Thursday blending prestigious and fashion.

Reader zZounds Favorite - Fender Deluxe

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of Wednesday Special - Reader zZounds Favorite, your choice is the Fender Deluxe Active Precision Special Electric Bass (Maple, with Gig Bag).

zZounds quote -

"For players who find themselves alternating between a variety (of) musical styles at a moments notice, the Fender Deluxe Precision Bass(R) Special is the perfect companion on stage and in the studio."

With that said, the Fender Deluxe is truly meant for the professional.  The cost of $824.99 is, then, worth the investment.

As a refresher, follow the link below to explore and shop or simply enjoy out of curiosity!

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--FEN0143412

Duet Tuesday

In this edition of Duet Tuesday, I am featuring two music legends - Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney - as they perform "Say Say Say."

"Say Say Say" has a meaningful history for both Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney.

The song was written by Paul McCartney and performed by Jackson and McCartney.  

"Say Say Say," as a song from McCartney's 1982 album, Tug of War, was released in 1983.

"Say Say Say" was a year shy of the iconic duet "The Girl Is Mine" for Michael Jackson's Thriller album.

(A full background behind "The Girl Is Mine" can be found on Wikipedia.)

"Say Say Say" honors -

- No. 1 in the U.S., Canada, Norway, and Sweden

- No. 2 in the UK

- Top 10 in Australia, Austria, New Zealand, The Netherlands, Switzerland, and 20 other countries

- No. 41 hit of all time on Billboard Hot 100 (2013)

- No. 9 best collaboration of all time in a Rolling Stone readers' poll

- Certified Gold U.S. (1982) ... Later certified Platinum U.S.

- Certified Gold Australia and France

- Certified Silver UK

- Certified Platinum Canada

(Wikipedia)

Welcome Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson.

Veterans Day 2019

As a general rule in American society, one must never speak of religion or politics in a social gathering.  I will never know when this rule was created, but it is true.  This rule is especially true with our current White House administration.  I have my opinions, my family has their opinions, and the country is heavily divisive in their opinions.  However, on this Veterans Day the United States needs to unite in honor of those who have served and sacrificed to protect our precious core values and interests.

The Star Spangled Banner - A reminder of why the United States of America is strong and has a solid point in domestic and global affairs.

Another Day in Paradise

In this edition of Astronaut2005 Drummer v. Original, I am featuring "Another Day in Paradise" as the cover and as performed originally by Phil Collins.

Curious question - What do you think of the cover performance?  Leave a comment to share your thoughts!

Astronaut2005 Drummer

Phil Collins

zZounds Sunday - Roland Percussion Pad

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Sunday, I am featuring a Roland percussion pad.  This feature is best meant for professionals with profound power on the drums.  A jazz club would certainly not be appropriate.  Get a feel for what the Roland percussion pad has to offer in the recording studio.  Soundcheck on stage.  Blast during the concert.

The Roland percussion pad is highly technical, so if this is one you can master, follow the link below.  If you are just curious, explore the link below.

The Roland percussion pad is rather steep in cost, so proper investment should be considered based on skill level.

With that said, enjoy!

Roland SPD30 Octapad Total Percussion Pad, Black
$739.99

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--ROLSPD30

Check out the Roland SPD30 Octapad Total Percussion Pad in action -

Looking to expand your drum kit?  This may just be the way to go!

As always,

Play it!

zZounds Saturday - Fender Deluxe

Due disclosure - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Saturday, I am featuring a Fender Deluxe bass guitar.  From aesthetically gorgeous to truly best meant for the pro on stage or in the studio, the Fender Deluxe is really one to consider.

The Fender Deluxe is ideal for established guitarists looking to expand their collection for on stage use and practice sessions in the studio.  For the pro, the cost is a reasonable investment at $824.99.  For the semi-pro, the cost is one to consider.  I would not recommend the Fender Deluxe to a novice student based on the zZounds overview alone.

With that said, if you are a professional guitarist and are seriously interested, follow the link below.  If you are just curious, explore the link below.  Either way, enjoy!

Fender Deluxe Active Precision Special Electric Bass (Maple, with Gig Bag)

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--FEN0143412

Follow the link above for the full overview and specs behind the Fender Deluxe Active Precision Special Electric Bass (Maple, with Gig Bag).

Imagine your most favorite bass guitarist.  Can you see them playing a Fender?  If yes, then take note of the feature in today's zZounds Saturday.

As always,

Play it!