Contemporary musicians have found a place in my collection, alongside rock & jazz giants and decades past must-haves.
Depeche Mode is first on my contemporaries list. Known early on for hits such as "Enjoy the Silence" and "Policy of Truth" (both Violator), Depeche Mode has yet to stray from their trademark electronic sound and tone. Their recently released song, "Precious," reflects this trademark - deep vocals, defined use of the synthesizer, dark yet hopeful lyrics. Depeche Mode is one to be noticed. And their 1990 album, Violator, helped get them noticed when it landed #7 in the Top 10 of Billboard 200 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Violator_(album) ). Depeche Mode simply rocks.
Seal is an incredible singer and recording artist. His lyrics are powerful, and at the right moment in such songs as "Bring It On" (Seal 1994) and "Crazy" (Seal: Best 1991-2004) a hit of musical intensity punches the listener, who will want more.
3 Doors Down is a surprise contemporary favorite. Sorrowful lyrics in such songs as "When I'm Gone" (Away From the Sun) and "It's Not My Time," under the guise of rock sound and beat, provide interest and attraction. The mix is unique and can only be pulled off in the contemporary era of music. The band's name is likewise clever and one to be caught by a listener's eyes and ears. As the story goes, when the three original members began performing at the start of their career, they were in need of a name. During a trip to one city in Alabama, the three noticed a building with falling letters reading "Doors Down." There were the three initial members. So we have "3 Doors Down." Indeed, clever and successful - highly top-rated songs, multi-platinum albums, self-titles at #1 on Billboard 200 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3_Doors_Down)...
3 Doors Down is one to catch a listener's attention.
Nickelback is the ultimate in sensitive and tough lyrics & sound. Nickelback can be thoughtful and lyrically inspiring in such a song as "If Everyone Cared" (All the Right Reasons). Nickelback can be elitist in such a song as "Rockstar" (All the Right Reasons). Nickelback can be tough and intimidating in such a song as "Burn It to the Ground" (Dark Horse). These back-and-forth emotions pulled off with ease make Nickelback a contemporary favorite.
Rock in any style has appeal to all listeners in this genre giant. And this genre giant only gets better with time, past and present.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Monday, October 11, 2010
Music is a rush to the head
A sample of my family's musical rush to the head -
The Very Best of Chris Botti
Graceland
Very Best of Grateful Dead
All the Right Reasons
The Very Best of Chris Botti
Graceland
Very Best of Grateful Dead
All the Right Reasons
Helium article sample
A befitting article for a music blog. . .
Music is for everyone
By Lauren Hovis
Music has a history that dates back for centuries. This history has consumed in some way every life that has appeared throughout. Over the course of time, lives have been affected by music - through natural talent, through study, through critique, and through acute interest just by listening. Every generation experiences its own style of music, that is passed on and evolves with time. As I currently listen to my selection of iTunes, I reflect on personal interests in music and the interests that vary greatly within my own family.
My paternal grandmother (Grammy) is 85 years old. She has witnessed American and global history. She has defined opinions on every subject offered. So, quite naturally, she has defined taste in music. Grammy loves Hawaiian music. We have family in Kauai, who she visits yearly. When my father and aunt were little, they spent the better part of their childhood in Hawaii. Grammy, therefore, became greatly aware of the Pacific style and has been exposed to this style for years. She has many favorite Hawaiian artists, one of which I happen to like as well - HAPA. This group is made up of two men, guitarist and singer. Surely enough, every time I play the cd, I am taken on an escape to tropical paradise. Living in Illinois, the cost of travel is difficult. However, through HAPA and Grammy's acute interest, I am in my mind on the white sandy beaches often. Grammy's defined taste is unique as Hawaiian music is so specific and regional. Yet, at age 85, she loves music. Music is for her.
My maternal grandmother (Grandma) is 81 years old. She too has witnessed American and global history. She too has defined opinions on every subject offered. So, therefore, she has defined taste in music. Grandma is far from Grammy. Grandma loves classical music. She adores the male singing group, El Divo. Most often when I visit her, they are playing in the background beautifully. She recently came into the discovery of jazz trumpeter, Chris Botti. However, Grandma has always adored Simon & Garfunkel. Surprisingly, her interests have sparked intrigue in me, especially where regarding Chris Botti and Paul Simon. Grandma's defined taste is somewhat unique as classical music (which she prefers the most) is not widely popular in American society, especially among the younger generations. Yet, at age 81, she loves music. Music is for her.
My father is 54 years old. He follows a long line of music lovers. His taste, however, is in jazz. Dad will never budge from smooth jazz and classic jazz. As I listen to the smooth jazz band, The Rippingtons, I am reminded of his sincere interest and exposure to all varieties of jazz. At age 54, he loves music. Music is for him.
My mother is 47 years old. She too follows a long line of music lovers. Her taste is a far cry from Grammy, Grandma, and Dad. Mom lives for music, especially classic and modern rock. Her interests within this genre are off the board, however - from The Grateful Dead to Nickelback to anywhere in between. I live with my mom. Weekends and car trips are sure to be loud with pumping music. At age 47, she loves music. Music is for her.
My cousin, Paula, is 19 years old. She loves various artists in modern rock. Paula lives for music literally. She is an accomplished drummer and attends live concerts at least one to two times a year. We visit each other often and always find room for music as a topic of interest. At age 19, she loves music. Music is for her.
My cousin, Michaela, is 17 years old. She loves rap music. Michaela's interest is unique to her and is a far cry from everyone in the family. When we talk over the phone, rap is often playing in the background. At age 17, she loves music. Music is for her.
I am 27 years old. I descend from a long lineage of music enthusiasts. My interests cannot be described as they extend into so many different branches. I love jazz the way my father does. I adore Miles Davis, Chris Botti, The Rippingtons, and a host of smooth jazz artists too many to be named here. I love rock the way my mother does. I adore Duran Duran, anything 1980s, and pure classic rock from the 1970s on. My parents' interests inspire my taste in many ways. My interests have as of late taken me beyond just listening. I created a personal blog whose posts are solely on my interests in music, all genres, all, musicians, and personal experiences. As my musical motto goes, my interest in music is a rush to the head - so many musicians, so many genres.
Music has a history that reflects on everyone. At some point, every person around the globe has found a beat, a style, a lyric. Music is found everywhere and discovered surely enough. For these reasons, music is for everyone.
Music is for everyone
By Lauren Hovis
Music has a history that dates back for centuries. This history has consumed in some way every life that has appeared throughout. Over the course of time, lives have been affected by music - through natural talent, through study, through critique, and through acute interest just by listening. Every generation experiences its own style of music, that is passed on and evolves with time. As I currently listen to my selection of iTunes, I reflect on personal interests in music and the interests that vary greatly within my own family.
My paternal grandmother (Grammy) is 85 years old. She has witnessed American and global history. She has defined opinions on every subject offered. So, quite naturally, she has defined taste in music. Grammy loves Hawaiian music. We have family in Kauai, who she visits yearly. When my father and aunt were little, they spent the better part of their childhood in Hawaii. Grammy, therefore, became greatly aware of the Pacific style and has been exposed to this style for years. She has many favorite Hawaiian artists, one of which I happen to like as well - HAPA. This group is made up of two men, guitarist and singer. Surely enough, every time I play the cd, I am taken on an escape to tropical paradise. Living in Illinois, the cost of travel is difficult. However, through HAPA and Grammy's acute interest, I am in my mind on the white sandy beaches often. Grammy's defined taste is unique as Hawaiian music is so specific and regional. Yet, at age 85, she loves music. Music is for her.
My maternal grandmother (Grandma) is 81 years old. She too has witnessed American and global history. She too has defined opinions on every subject offered. So, therefore, she has defined taste in music. Grandma is far from Grammy. Grandma loves classical music. She adores the male singing group, El Divo. Most often when I visit her, they are playing in the background beautifully. She recently came into the discovery of jazz trumpeter, Chris Botti. However, Grandma has always adored Simon & Garfunkel. Surprisingly, her interests have sparked intrigue in me, especially where regarding Chris Botti and Paul Simon. Grandma's defined taste is somewhat unique as classical music (which she prefers the most) is not widely popular in American society, especially among the younger generations. Yet, at age 81, she loves music. Music is for her.
My father is 54 years old. He follows a long line of music lovers. His taste, however, is in jazz. Dad will never budge from smooth jazz and classic jazz. As I listen to the smooth jazz band, The Rippingtons, I am reminded of his sincere interest and exposure to all varieties of jazz. At age 54, he loves music. Music is for him.
My mother is 47 years old. She too follows a long line of music lovers. Her taste is a far cry from Grammy, Grandma, and Dad. Mom lives for music, especially classic and modern rock. Her interests within this genre are off the board, however - from The Grateful Dead to Nickelback to anywhere in between. I live with my mom. Weekends and car trips are sure to be loud with pumping music. At age 47, she loves music. Music is for her.
My cousin, Paula, is 19 years old. She loves various artists in modern rock. Paula lives for music literally. She is an accomplished drummer and attends live concerts at least one to two times a year. We visit each other often and always find room for music as a topic of interest. At age 19, she loves music. Music is for her.
My cousin, Michaela, is 17 years old. She loves rap music. Michaela's interest is unique to her and is a far cry from everyone in the family. When we talk over the phone, rap is often playing in the background. At age 17, she loves music. Music is for her.
I am 27 years old. I descend from a long lineage of music enthusiasts. My interests cannot be described as they extend into so many different branches. I love jazz the way my father does. I adore Miles Davis, Chris Botti, The Rippingtons, and a host of smooth jazz artists too many to be named here. I love rock the way my mother does. I adore Duran Duran, anything 1980s, and pure classic rock from the 1970s on. My parents' interests inspire my taste in many ways. My interests have as of late taken me beyond just listening. I created a personal blog whose posts are solely on my interests in music, all genres, all, musicians, and personal experiences. As my musical motto goes, my interest in music is a rush to the head - so many musicians, so many genres.
Music has a history that reflects on everyone. At some point, every person around the globe has found a beat, a style, a lyric. Music is found everywhere and discovered surely enough. For these reasons, music is for everyone.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Is there something you should know?
As you can tell by posts below, I am quite fond of Duran Duran. I collect, I listen, I write, I create, I am profoundly inspired. So is there something you should know?
I am in love with Duran Duran for their appearance, humor, boyish goofiness, and intellect.
I am awe-struck by each member's natural talent -
Simon's voice is unique to him and the band, as are the lyrics he drafts. His creativity is incredbily deep and energetic. His words keep the listener guessing as to where he will go next. No two songs are exactly the same or same at all. This notion keeps Duran Duran fresh over the years.
Nick Rhodes on the keyboard often leaves me to wonder if his talent could ever stretch to a piano. . .until I hear him on the synthesizer. Anyone can make sounds on a synthesizer. Only he, however, can make sounds that are coherent into a song. And there are numerous songs that open with his solo. The man is a genius in this respect. He makes the instrument look easy to play. . .it is not.
John Taylor is smooth on his bass guitar. Yet he also adds funk to many classics and contemporary hits. He is so cool in sound that it would seem that he blends into the background. I do not think the Duranie chant, "Play that fucking bass, John," will let him slip on by.
Roger Taylor is so quiet and shy in personality. He has a sweet and kind demeanor. He is a loveable person. And then he steps on stage and puts sticks to drums. His power is intense and defines the meaning of extroverted. He leads the beat and he knows it. The sound that is emitted from his section of the stage reflects an entirely different side to his quiet personality.
I am, quite simply, a fan. Therefore, refer to this entry if ever you wonder why I write so often about Duran Duran. Any doubts? Is there something you should know? Consider Play It Duran Duran Fan Page (see link in the post below). There is something I should know. Are you a Duran Duran fan yet?
I am in love with Duran Duran for their appearance, humor, boyish goofiness, and intellect.
I am awe-struck by each member's natural talent -
Simon's voice is unique to him and the band, as are the lyrics he drafts. His creativity is incredbily deep and energetic. His words keep the listener guessing as to where he will go next. No two songs are exactly the same or same at all. This notion keeps Duran Duran fresh over the years.
Nick Rhodes on the keyboard often leaves me to wonder if his talent could ever stretch to a piano. . .until I hear him on the synthesizer. Anyone can make sounds on a synthesizer. Only he, however, can make sounds that are coherent into a song. And there are numerous songs that open with his solo. The man is a genius in this respect. He makes the instrument look easy to play. . .it is not.
John Taylor is smooth on his bass guitar. Yet he also adds funk to many classics and contemporary hits. He is so cool in sound that it would seem that he blends into the background. I do not think the Duranie chant, "Play that fucking bass, John," will let him slip on by.
Roger Taylor is so quiet and shy in personality. He has a sweet and kind demeanor. He is a loveable person. And then he steps on stage and puts sticks to drums. His power is intense and defines the meaning of extroverted. He leads the beat and he knows it. The sound that is emitted from his section of the stage reflects an entirely different side to his quiet personality.
I am, quite simply, a fan. Therefore, refer to this entry if ever you wonder why I write so often about Duran Duran. Any doubts? Is there something you should know? Consider Play It Duran Duran Fan Page (see link in the post below). There is something I should know. Are you a Duran Duran fan yet?
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Duran Duran Rio album review
In the Duran Duran community, Rio is classic. Only comments of honorable praise follow. Therefore, my review will be in kind.
On release in 1983, Rio ranked #6 on the U.S. Top Twenty.
The video for "Rio" landed Duran Duran in music history, perhaps leading to the quote,
"The band was a natural for music television" - Rolling Stone magazine
This video is colorful, vivid, unique, and coherent in one phenomenal package. (If intrigued, a YouTube entry was posted earlier.)
In 1985, "Save A Prayer" (#8 on the album) ranked #16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
So here's my take.
1. Rio - The song opens mysteriously with haunting synthesizers and keyboards. Yet in this second, pace and tone are determined and soon vocals break out of the gate with the energy of a race horse. The first word - not lyric or verse - is "Wow!". As heard live, the sound, concluding a concert, does not let up until the band lets up - an incredible feat as both the band and audience are so consumed with energy that winding down such emotion is next to impossible. This exact feeling is felt on the album, with "Rio" opening the cd set.
2. My Own Way - Duran Duran lyrics are unique and at times cannot be explained. This take makes Duran Duran. This take makes them so loved by so many. "My own way," however, comprises lyrics that do make sense. Although not a personal favorite, I do like this song in that I am able to understand where the vocals are going. Some rock songs follow beat and not lyrics. "My own way" does both.
3. Lonely In Your Nightmare - I love this song. It is haunting in lyrics and tone but has an edge when the electric guitar comes in for a brief solo. The words tell a story and draw me in every time. "Because you're lonely in your nightmare let me in." These words assure me that I am not alone in down times.
4. Hungry Like The Wolf - I am not sure what to say about this song as most similar to "Rio," this song is classic Duran Duran. The music video to "Hungry Like The Wolf" is likewise unique and fun. The lyrics are fast and energetic, both recorded and live. The tone reflects pure Duran Duran style, much the way "Rio" does. I truly do not know how to review this song without simply saying "Hungry Like The Wolf" is classic to Duran Duran in all of the band's many ways - sound, tone, instrumentals, vocals, lyrics, and so on.
5. Hold Back The Rain - I do not listen to this song often, so I have few comments. I once listened to an interview featuring Nick Rhodes. This song came up and I did learn that "Hold Back The Rain" was played for either a space shuttle launch or descent - the weather had been threatening storms. I thought that was an interesting fact to learn (one of many I have come to take in over the years).
6. New Religion - Oh my, "New Religion." I like this song for how difficult it is to keep up with. The layered vocals throughout appear so impossible to sing along to - does the listener keep pace with Simon Le Bon or, as heard live, with the guitarists backing him up? This song opens mysteriously and somewhat slowly but gains incredible strength and energy half way through in nearly a surprise way. Due to these reasons, "New Religion" tends to be, in my opinion, nervous making with the layered vocals and energy coming out of nowhere. This song is a favorite in my household. Indeed, for a band to speak to multiple generations. . .classic.
7. Last Chance On The Stairway - I, quite personally, am not a fan of this one song. I did, however, hear it performed live in May 2008 as part of an electronic set during the show. I am sorry, but it wasn't a top favorite then, either. The song is good, but does not attract me the way others do.
8. Save A Prayer - If an avid listener (not necessarily a die-hard fan) cannot tell "Save A Prayer" from its opening instrumental without lyrics. . .This song is so purely Duran Duran that I would be surprised if it did not rank in the top of a fan's list. The lyrics are beautiful and story-like. The instrumental, however, is my preference, especially the sweet keyboard. "Save A Prayer" seems to be a song with so many parts that can each stand alone and be amazing at the same time. All components blend together perfectly. I really. . .If "Ordinary World" were not my absolute favorite, "Save A Prayer" would rank first easily.
9. The Chauffeur - Duran Duran and DD fans will think quite sorely of me, but I in all honesty. . .Oh boy. . .I do not like this song :( . . .The lyrics are okay and the sound is okay, but had I not seen the video as performed in the background in the Live from London concert dvd, I might feel differently. In truth, I am not the greatest of fans of music videos.
So before I dig myself into a hole after my comments to "The Chauffeur," all I need to say is that Rio is simply classic. The energy rides up and down. The lyrics are catchy and some are adored by heart. The instrumentals are unique and flawless. For most of the songs on the album, as performed live they lose absolutely nothing in translation. The album artwork is beautiful and stands alone in time. In my opinion, Rio is a musical genius, in all thanks to the men behind it.
This is my review. If interested in Rio, please consider the Amazon.com link below.
(Factual source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duran_Duran)
On release in 1983, Rio ranked #6 on the U.S. Top Twenty.
The video for "Rio" landed Duran Duran in music history, perhaps leading to the quote,
"The band was a natural for music television" - Rolling Stone magazine
This video is colorful, vivid, unique, and coherent in one phenomenal package. (If intrigued, a YouTube entry was posted earlier.)
In 1985, "Save A Prayer" (#8 on the album) ranked #16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
So here's my take.
1. Rio - The song opens mysteriously with haunting synthesizers and keyboards. Yet in this second, pace and tone are determined and soon vocals break out of the gate with the energy of a race horse. The first word - not lyric or verse - is "Wow!". As heard live, the sound, concluding a concert, does not let up until the band lets up - an incredible feat as both the band and audience are so consumed with energy that winding down such emotion is next to impossible. This exact feeling is felt on the album, with "Rio" opening the cd set.
2. My Own Way - Duran Duran lyrics are unique and at times cannot be explained. This take makes Duran Duran. This take makes them so loved by so many. "My own way," however, comprises lyrics that do make sense. Although not a personal favorite, I do like this song in that I am able to understand where the vocals are going. Some rock songs follow beat and not lyrics. "My own way" does both.
3. Lonely In Your Nightmare - I love this song. It is haunting in lyrics and tone but has an edge when the electric guitar comes in for a brief solo. The words tell a story and draw me in every time. "Because you're lonely in your nightmare let me in." These words assure me that I am not alone in down times.
4. Hungry Like The Wolf - I am not sure what to say about this song as most similar to "Rio," this song is classic Duran Duran. The music video to "Hungry Like The Wolf" is likewise unique and fun. The lyrics are fast and energetic, both recorded and live. The tone reflects pure Duran Duran style, much the way "Rio" does. I truly do not know how to review this song without simply saying "Hungry Like The Wolf" is classic to Duran Duran in all of the band's many ways - sound, tone, instrumentals, vocals, lyrics, and so on.
5. Hold Back The Rain - I do not listen to this song often, so I have few comments. I once listened to an interview featuring Nick Rhodes. This song came up and I did learn that "Hold Back The Rain" was played for either a space shuttle launch or descent - the weather had been threatening storms. I thought that was an interesting fact to learn (one of many I have come to take in over the years).
6. New Religion - Oh my, "New Religion." I like this song for how difficult it is to keep up with. The layered vocals throughout appear so impossible to sing along to - does the listener keep pace with Simon Le Bon or, as heard live, with the guitarists backing him up? This song opens mysteriously and somewhat slowly but gains incredible strength and energy half way through in nearly a surprise way. Due to these reasons, "New Religion" tends to be, in my opinion, nervous making with the layered vocals and energy coming out of nowhere. This song is a favorite in my household. Indeed, for a band to speak to multiple generations. . .classic.
7. Last Chance On The Stairway - I, quite personally, am not a fan of this one song. I did, however, hear it performed live in May 2008 as part of an electronic set during the show. I am sorry, but it wasn't a top favorite then, either. The song is good, but does not attract me the way others do.
8. Save A Prayer - If an avid listener (not necessarily a die-hard fan) cannot tell "Save A Prayer" from its opening instrumental without lyrics. . .This song is so purely Duran Duran that I would be surprised if it did not rank in the top of a fan's list. The lyrics are beautiful and story-like. The instrumental, however, is my preference, especially the sweet keyboard. "Save A Prayer" seems to be a song with so many parts that can each stand alone and be amazing at the same time. All components blend together perfectly. I really. . .If "Ordinary World" were not my absolute favorite, "Save A Prayer" would rank first easily.
9. The Chauffeur - Duran Duran and DD fans will think quite sorely of me, but I in all honesty. . .Oh boy. . .I do not like this song :( . . .The lyrics are okay and the sound is okay, but had I not seen the video as performed in the background in the Live from London concert dvd, I might feel differently. In truth, I am not the greatest of fans of music videos.
So before I dig myself into a hole after my comments to "The Chauffeur," all I need to say is that Rio is simply classic. The energy rides up and down. The lyrics are catchy and some are adored by heart. The instrumentals are unique and flawless. For most of the songs on the album, as performed live they lose absolutely nothing in translation. The album artwork is beautiful and stands alone in time. In my opinion, Rio is a musical genius, in all thanks to the men behind it.
This is my review. If interested in Rio, please consider the Amazon.com link below.
(Factual source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duran_Duran)
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Duran Duran Live from London dvd/cd package
The original line-up of simply Duran Duran is back with a fresh yet classic album - Astronaut - and is reconnecting with adoring fans in a place called home - Wembley Stadium in London. A perfect reunion must be captured on film. . .Live from London on dvd. Every emotion felt by all - audience and band - is experienced on this disc. No camera angle is left out. All classics and new hits are enjoyed. In the Duran Duran community, all is once again right with the world.
Twenty powerful songs are played and the concert opens with a punch in the name of "Reach Up for the Sunrise." The energy through this song extends the entire length of the concert night. Visual effects are dazzling. Every instrument has its share of stand out playing time. Quiet moments in softer songs bring the audience even closer together. All know every beat and word to every song. Unity between audience and band is palpable. Duran Duran is back and the world knows it.
Two special bonus features on the dvd package include a half-hour documentary on the formation, break-up, and reuniting of Duran Duran from the perspectives of the members themselves & each member commentating on two of their favorite songs performed in the London concert.
I was given this package as an early holidays gift from my family some years ago and I became addicted in less than a heartbeat. I watched every day until I knew the songs by heart, the camera shots by heart, the visual effect cues by heart, audience reaction by heart. . .I, quite simply, love this dvd, because I love Duran Duran and doubt if I ever could get enough.
This dvd package is unconditionally fun, energetic, loud, and fast-paced. Nothing is left out.
This is my review. If interested in Duran Duran Live from London, please consider the Amazon.com links below.
Twenty powerful songs are played and the concert opens with a punch in the name of "Reach Up for the Sunrise." The energy through this song extends the entire length of the concert night. Visual effects are dazzling. Every instrument has its share of stand out playing time. Quiet moments in softer songs bring the audience even closer together. All know every beat and word to every song. Unity between audience and band is palpable. Duran Duran is back and the world knows it.
Two special bonus features on the dvd package include a half-hour documentary on the formation, break-up, and reuniting of Duran Duran from the perspectives of the members themselves & each member commentating on two of their favorite songs performed in the London concert.
I was given this package as an early holidays gift from my family some years ago and I became addicted in less than a heartbeat. I watched every day until I knew the songs by heart, the camera shots by heart, the visual effect cues by heart, audience reaction by heart. . .I, quite simply, love this dvd, because I love Duran Duran and doubt if I ever could get enough.
This dvd package is unconditionally fun, energetic, loud, and fast-paced. Nothing is left out.
This is my review. If interested in Duran Duran Live from London, please consider the Amazon.com links below.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Duran Duran Astronaut dvd review
When the original Duran Duran five came together for the production of Astronaut, a film crew met up with them to tape a behind-the-scenes documentary about their reunion tour. I, as a viewer, am addicted.
All five members are just being themselves - goofy, hyper, energized, serious, boys being boys. . .true personalities simply playing themselves out.
When Duran Duran is on stage at a concert, their business faces are on. Although having fun, their job is to please the audience with classics and new hits.
However, when their concert time cards punch out, an entirely different side of the original five is shown.
The Astronaut dvd reflects boyish lightheartedness that is refreshing, enjoyable, and cracks anyone up. The background album music is exceptionally fast-paced and draws in the viewer within less than a heartbeat.
John Taylor locks himself in a room and is singing, off beat, to a Duran Duran song that is going to be performed just minutes away. Everyone is concerned because he does not know that the concert is set to begin any second. He is so involved in that song that even Roger Taylor cannot help but laugh and comment, "Has he lost the plot?"
Simon Le Bon breaks out in a 70s disco routine while John provides a simple drum beat. . .all while waiting to be called to stage.
Andy Taylor checks Simon's pitch by hitting his own notes to "Reach Up for the Sunrise." (He did pretty well.)
Nick Rhodes discusses in a rather intriguing way his stage relationship with Roger - the drums and keyboard face each other, so both men catch several nonverbal moments. I believe Nick said that at times Roger would deliberately miss a beat - while performing live - to see if Nick was paying attention. I found this thought to be quite clever and unique. As someone in the audience, I never would have guessed that or sensed it.
All members would catch a breath after a concert to run through their most successful songs and changes that would need to be made to another night's set list. No arguments, but clearly every member had different opinions.
Then there is the roaring screaming from the audience desperately wanting their night to get started and the guys are waiting for their cue back stage as cool as fall air, with no trace of nervousness or anxiety in them - "no big deal" attitude.
No big deal attitude being ironic because this dvd documentary was filmed while Duran Duran was back, after many years, in London where their career began. A portion of the documentary took the guys back home, home they left to launch a career in music that was not guaranteed. Memories flooded back and the pace of the documentary slowed a bit. Yet, seeing each member with their families once more was quite touching to see.
And then the energy is back. The dvd ends with the music video for "Reach Up for the Sunrise."
There is so much more to the Astronaut dvd/cd package. I have an exciting blast every time I watch. Therefore. . .
This is my review. If interested in the Astronaut dvd/cd package, please consider the Amazon.com link below.
All five members are just being themselves - goofy, hyper, energized, serious, boys being boys. . .true personalities simply playing themselves out.
When Duran Duran is on stage at a concert, their business faces are on. Although having fun, their job is to please the audience with classics and new hits.
However, when their concert time cards punch out, an entirely different side of the original five is shown.
The Astronaut dvd reflects boyish lightheartedness that is refreshing, enjoyable, and cracks anyone up. The background album music is exceptionally fast-paced and draws in the viewer within less than a heartbeat.
John Taylor locks himself in a room and is singing, off beat, to a Duran Duran song that is going to be performed just minutes away. Everyone is concerned because he does not know that the concert is set to begin any second. He is so involved in that song that even Roger Taylor cannot help but laugh and comment, "Has he lost the plot?"
Simon Le Bon breaks out in a 70s disco routine while John provides a simple drum beat. . .all while waiting to be called to stage.
Andy Taylor checks Simon's pitch by hitting his own notes to "Reach Up for the Sunrise." (He did pretty well.)
Nick Rhodes discusses in a rather intriguing way his stage relationship with Roger - the drums and keyboard face each other, so both men catch several nonverbal moments. I believe Nick said that at times Roger would deliberately miss a beat - while performing live - to see if Nick was paying attention. I found this thought to be quite clever and unique. As someone in the audience, I never would have guessed that or sensed it.
All members would catch a breath after a concert to run through their most successful songs and changes that would need to be made to another night's set list. No arguments, but clearly every member had different opinions.
Then there is the roaring screaming from the audience desperately wanting their night to get started and the guys are waiting for their cue back stage as cool as fall air, with no trace of nervousness or anxiety in them - "no big deal" attitude.
No big deal attitude being ironic because this dvd documentary was filmed while Duran Duran was back, after many years, in London where their career began. A portion of the documentary took the guys back home, home they left to launch a career in music that was not guaranteed. Memories flooded back and the pace of the documentary slowed a bit. Yet, seeing each member with their families once more was quite touching to see.
And then the energy is back. The dvd ends with the music video for "Reach Up for the Sunrise."
There is so much more to the Astronaut dvd/cd package. I have an exciting blast every time I watch. Therefore. . .
This is my review. If interested in the Astronaut dvd/cd package, please consider the Amazon.com link below.
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