Distributed Mind

Yes, I know; more randomness.

The new Nelly Furtado album, Lost is so disappointing I can barely express my feelings on the matter. Whoa, Nelly! I liked primarily because Furtado stuck her neck out musically and really did something unusual and interesting, combining all sorts of music into an insane whole. She also showed some lyrical promise which came to full fruition on her next album Folklore. Although that album was less exciting musically, it had some great songwriting. But, Loose tosses out almost all of that to go for... well, I'm not really sure what. Sex seems to be the main topic. So disappointing. I know that Ms. Furtado would probably mock me if she read this - many of her songs proclaim her lack of regard for others' opinions, after all - but, hey, just stating my honest opinion. Of course, I don't want to suggest that Nelly Furtado doesn't have the perogative to do whatever she wants musically - she does - I just think her decision is... unfortunate.

I have decided that "Paint It Black" is most definitely the greatest popular song of the Twentieth Century. It's just a quality song both lyrically and musically, but also it manages to convey a sort of aloof grief in a way that just seems so appropriate to the subject matter. What's crazy about this is that I have just claimed that a Rolling Stones song is the greatest popular song of the last century. The Beatles were better (much better, actually), but there is no doubt the Stones had occasional high points as well (they just had a lot of low points too).

Over time, my appreciation for Creedence Clearwater Revival only grows. I mean, I have always like CCR (if "Paint It Black" was the best song of the century, "Down on the Corner" was the most infectious), but I'm really starting to realize how much I like them. They have to be one of the most underrated bands ever. John Fogerty as a song writer, especially, stands out.

I need to buy some Led Zeppelin albums.

I was born late enough to miss out on a lot of good popular music. I need to listen to more stuff by the Byrds. Don't laugh. Another band that has been growing on me is the Police.

And speaking of reggae... (if you didn't get that transition you haven't listened to the Police enough - and no "Every Breath you Take" doesn't count) What's amazing about "Angel" by Shaggy is that musician I don't find particularly interesting took the lyrics to a song I don't like (well, I like the song - but not the lyrics) and the bass line from another song I don't like and managed to make a song I do like. I believe the word is "serendipity."

Having said all of this, I still think the ultimate musical project would be something that sounded like a mix of Chicago and Led Zeppelin, with a touch of Jimi Hendrix maybe. Someday...

There, was that random enough?

(Anyone else have anything to add?

[Update, 18:18: On a couple more listens to Loose I have to admit I feel less negative about significant portions of it. There's still a few losers of songs, but some of the more lyrical stuff isn't all bad.]