by Meredith Schneider | Feb 10, 2025 | review, show review
Last night, the Philadelphia Eagles won The Big Game.
While there was so much about the game that gave me goosebumps, electrified, and, honestly, inspired, the most exciting part for me – and for many – was the halftime show. For fear of being too petty (re: my issues with the Chiefs organization being too financially and outwardly supportive of the color orange, their players and families openly supporting the current regime, Butker, Swift, etc.), I’m going to spare you most of my thoughts.
But not about the halftime show. I’ll spare you nothing there.
The halftime show was remarkable from the first lines out of Samuel L. Jackson’s mouth – aka the only Uncle Sam I’ll ever listen to – all the way through the impactful GAME OVER finale. If you were allowed to watch and listen closely in your party environment, you probably noticed a bit more.
To begin, there wasn’t a single white performer on that field and I was living for it. It’s Black History Month, and our joke of a government is trying to erase that. This was a massive, immediate message to many people – one, in particular, who was actually there in person instead of doing their jobs correctly to protect our country from a coup.
The stage performance was just over 13 minutes of spectacular set design and art, beginning with video game audio and squares lit up like tic-tac-toe. (I have seen references to Squid Games, a show I will not watch. I’m sorry.) Samuel L. Jackson is lit up in the middle square to introduce Kendrick, who starts on top of a 1987 GNX wearing red, white, and blue, decidedly. The car is the namesake of his surprise sixth studio album, which was released last November. He’s also kneeling, with a single spotlight on him, completely alone. This, alone, was a statement to the orange one in who led people in tearing down those who protested during NFL games not so many years ago. The short song Lamar begins with appeared on teasers for the album and there are lines from it that immediately pulled at fans when the album came out, but isn’t an official track on any current releases.
In the first big choreographed moment, the lights strobe, a good amount of dancers in red square up and sync up, and Kendrick says, loudly, “The revolution’s about to be televised. You picked the right time but the wrong guy.” This line is a direct reference to a satirical poem released in 1970 by Gil Scott-Heron, which reads, “The revolution will not be televised.” This piece is a response to the spoken-word art “When the Revolution Comes” by The Last Poets, and mentions famous figures and cultural linchpins that serve as a smokescreen for the actual revolutionaries.
Kendrick reciting these words with the American colors around him, was an obvious poke at several people in attendance. It was also the first time I screamed out of excitement.
He pivots fast into “Squabble Up,” dancers in red, white, and blue sweatsuits surrounding him in various formations. After lining up, they start to step and it is a powerful moment of rhythm and control. Which is when Samuel L. Jackson steps back in and says, “No, no, no, no, no! Too loud! Too reckless! Too ghetto! Mr. Lamar, do you really know how to play the game? Then tighten up!”
And that beautiful man is a smokescreen for the watching audience. Because as he is screaming the same shit conservative media uses against people of color to delegitimize their art and their lives, the dancers are forming an American flag on the steps. And now the camera is back on Kendrick, in the center of that flag.
And so begins “Humble.” The crowd is roaring at this point, while these incredible male athletes/dancers engage in sharp movements that would be hailed as 11/10 at a cheerleading competition. Their precision was admirable, poetry in motion. This is when I started noticing some dancers had their faces covered, some had their heads wrapped.** Some you could see fully, and others had dyed their hair to match their outfits. I can only imagine that this type of scene is what scared some viewers into saying the halftime show was “scary” and “militaristic.”
That’s ok, but it was by design. The performance was meant to make us question things, created as a living protest, and isn’t threatening to the viewing public at all. So you might have to sit in that discomfort for a while.
He quickly launches into “DNA,” which famously challenges a deplorably racist Fox anchor’s comments about hip-hop being damaging to black people. He runs across the field to dance in front of varying dancer formations, then gives us some “Euphoria” and slows down for a rendition of “Man at the Garden” with a slew of dancers seemingly hanging out by a lamp post behind him.
“Peekaboo” begins after another appearance by Samuel, who – in keeping with the gaming theme – tells the scorekeeper that Lamar only has one life. Kendrick and his dancers are now inside one of the X’s on the field, looking like a Nintendo controller. He rotates thorough the “X,” bouncing around and making for a really interactive time with the television audience.
Then, Kendrick pauses and asks a group of female dancers, “I wanna perform they favorite song but you know they love to sue.” The introductory instrumentals to THAT SONG begin, and the crowd goes WILD. But he’s teasing us, and you can hear Samuel yell, “You’ve lost your damn mind!” while Kendrick slows everything down.
Smooth R&B starts, and he rolls right into a sultry version of “Luther” featuring the indelible SZA. Our girl first appears sitting down casually, decided out fully in a gorgeous red that perfectly matches her hair and goes well with Kendrick’s mostly-blue getup. This slower tempo moment allows them to really connect with each other on stage. It also gives the pair the momentum they need to launch into the Black Panther anthem “All the Stars.” SZA was A-plus, no notes. What a powerful, beautiful presence to have joined him on stage, a moment that got us extra amped for their upcoming tour.
Samuel L. Jackson comes back in with similar commentary as before, noting that “nice and calm” is “what America wants.” The humor and the magic in these moments cannot be spoken about enough, he was making fun of us to our faces and I truly couldn’t get enough of it. He was about to wrap it up all “politically correct” when Kendrick decided it was time.
“Not Like Us” was incredible, an aerial shot catching more sharp, beautiful moments from the dancers. The freestyle coupled with very impactful choreographed moves made it such a celebration of community and diversity at the same time. No one had to sing to make a deliberate, profound statement.
But he did. And when Kendrick did, he looked right down the barrel of the camera as he said, “Say, Drake, I hear you like them young.” The pettiness was palpable, but it was also powerful. Especially when you take into account all of the hushed rumors that have swirled about Drake and his preferences and behavior over the years. While some might take Lamar’s diss tracks as pure petty for the sake of being that way, he’s using his platform to call out unacceptable behavior that has (for some reason) been normalized. He’s calling things out, and he’s doing it strategically.
If you want to fight me about the fact that there are no current official allegations against Drake, I would like to say one thing. The cameras panned the stage pretty quickly, but you caught it as well. The GOAT Serena Williams was c-walking on stage. They showed her twice, living in her joy and dancing her ass off. Which most people would think nothing of until you realize two facts.
One, that this incredible talent was policed for celebrating at the Olympics in 2012 with the same c-walk or “Crip Walk” dance. The media and fans ripped into how the champion celebrated, which was no better or worse than anyone else. Now, she gets to do the same walk on the most televised event, and she gets to do it with ferocity.
Two, that Serena was romantically linked with Drake from 2010-2016. Having her dance during this diss track about him is an extra dig for her, but it’s also a statement. If you weren’t fascinated by the entire stadium singing “a minor,” the fact that Lamar was wearing a lowercase “a” chain – literally “a minor” -, or the flags that some dancers were flying with kids on them, then I need you to know it all happened and it’s all connected. Serena’s participation seems to be a co-sign that the claims in the song aren’t just claims.
Which should worry you, if you weren’t already aware – and nervous – of Drake’s shifty behavior.
For those who didn’t recognize all of the Easter eggs, Lamar worked with a team to build out a gaming controller set, dancing within different buttons. By the end, he was rapping, “turn the tv off, turn the tv off,” smiled into the camera, and then the lights went down on the floor and the lights in the seats spelled GAME OVER.
**I do want to recognize that during the telecast, one of the dancers bravely waved Sudanese and Gazan flags. Having some of the dancers wear face and head wraps helped to make this possible. It allowed for people to make their own statements showing as much or as little of their bodies as possible.
CBS Mornings took the helm celebrating the performance. “Everything he did had power, had purpose,” exclaimed Vlad Duthiers. But while they took time to discuss America’s reaction and the controversy around it all, they didn’t mention the live genocide protest or several very important Easter eggs. For the most part, even for as liberal as their cast is, you could see how the media is being asked to speak about the performance overall.
If you take that halftime show and couple it with the incredible pre-show performances by musical legends Lady Gaga and Jon Batiste – and “America The Beautiful” performed by Lauren Daigle and Trombone Shorty – the game was a full win all around. Those involved were pumping diversity into the mix, bringing us not just a variety of people of all different backgrounds and affiliations, but celebrating it. Plus, multiple genres were represented with a noticeable majority black performers.
For the record…
- I love that the first black female coach in the NFL, Autumn Lockwood, took home a championship victory.
- Two people got booed and I’m not mad at it.
- The HAIM sisters passively existing everywhere makes me laugh a lot.
- I’m overjoyed for SZA’s mom, specifically.
- Paul Rudd looked like he wanted to melt into the floor of embarrassment, that poor man.
- Jon Hamm lost his voice before the game, which makes him the real winner.
- I’d like Bradley Cooper’s food truck to make a pit stop here.
- The Eagles head coach is a loser.
- Oh, Butker lost? Good.
- Elmo has the best takes.
by ImperfectFifth | May 27, 2020 | singles, soundtrack
These are the songs that inspire us. They cover a wide range of sounds which is telling of the music we create. Just like our music, this playlist covers the electric guitar sounds of the 60’s all the way to modern artists such as Twenty One Pilots and John Mayer.
Keep up with The Dragon Berries here.
by Madi Toman | Apr 9, 2020 | videos, wolf tracks
Alt-pop singer-songwriter Anna Shoemaker has just released the music video for “Someone”, the next focus track on her recently dropped album Everything is Embarrassing.
The 25-year-old artist became a SoundCloud sensation with her viral mashup of Kendrick Lamar’s “Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe” and Chance the Rapper’s “Cocoa Butter Kisses,” which she recorded on her bedroom floor. The song now has over 869,000+ streams and caught the attention of key tastemakers. Shoemaker then signed to 5Towns Records in late 2017 when she was chosen as Steve Madden’s Emerging Artist of the Year. In September of 2018, Shoemaker released her debut EP, East Side, produced by GRAMMY- nominated producer JT Daly. While still catchy and pop, the new songs feel more vulnerable and personal than ever. She finds putting pen to paper is often the best way to process her emotions, thus creating raw and honest lyricism that will certainly define Shoemaker’s releases.
Shoemaker filmed the charming video for her new release herself on her iphone, which follows the young artist and her “Someone” through a night at their apartment. Full of wine, pizza, and face masks, it shows a budding romance through rose-colored glasses, tinted with hope and adoration for her love. The track itself is full of bright, head-bobbing synth beats and gently plucked guitar with Shoemaker’s unique voice painting it with her own style. The intimate video pairs perfectly with the equally intimate song, giving listeners and viewers a firm grasp on Shoemaker’s artistic vision, which is full of songs bursting with relatable emotional and life experiences.
The music video for “Someone” and Everything is Embarrassing is out now via BMG for your streaming consumption. Keep up with Anna Shoemaker here.
by Erin P.S. Zimmerman | Dec 31, 2019 | perspective, soundtrack
Erin P.S. Zimmerman has not only the memory of an elephant and the rhythm of one of Destiny’s children, but she’s the twin sister of our Editor, so she’s an absolute magnet for pop culture. She took a side road and grabbed us a large quantity of songs for a playlist that easily covers the entire decade. We’re sure it was inspired by her Spotify plays, as well as a deep dive into each year and her own iTunes library. But this girl’s got some gems. So read em, listen to em, and celebrate 2020 with the sounds of the past!
2009
Dick in a Box – Lonely Island ft Justin Timberlake
One of the first times I realized that my mom has a wicked dirty sense of humor. In 2011, we requested this one at a piano bar “for our mom”. They pulled her on stage to sing and dance…and boy, did she!
I’m on a Boat – The Lonely Island
Everyone seemed to know this one, and it brought us all togethe
Water Landing – Third Eye Blind
Favorite TEB song. My new bf at the time – now my husband – made me a mix CD when we started dating, and this was the first song.
Boom Boom Pow – The Black Eyed Peas
“You’re so two thousand and LATE!” – Also, my sorority formal date’s “THIS IS MY JAM!”
Gives You Hell – The All-American Rejects
Our anthem for all the bullshit left behind in high school.
Use Somebody – Kings of Leon
Favorite moment of my study abroad trip to London: a packed room at a bar singing this to a live band playing a cover.
Party in the USA – Miley Cyrus
There is no physical possibility she could walk off the plane at LAX, hop in her cab and look to the right to see the Hollywood sign.
Battlefield – Jordin Sparks
Why DOES love always feel like a battlefield?
Fireflies – Owl City
Why did we like this one so much??
I Love College – Asher Roth
This is the given on the soundtrack of someone who was in college in 2009 or any year after.
Breakeven – The Script
This introduced me to The Script. Which became part of the soundtrack to my summer.
Lines, Vines, and Trying Times – Jonas Brothers
YES, this is the whole album. Because I loved about 4/5ths of it. And it was the magical soundtrack to exploring London and Los Angeles.
2010
Cooler Than Me – Mike Posner
Someone told me they thought of me every time they hear this song because I probably think I’m cooler than them. I am.
Billionaire – Travie McCoy ft Bruno Mars
Heard this one for the first time driving around Los Angeles with some friends. And I could picture myself as a billionaire VERY clearly – and still do every time I hear it!
Club Can’t Handle Me – Flo Rida ft. David Guetta
Always blasted in my dorm with my roommates. Always never at the club…because it can’t handle me right now.
Whataya Want from Me – Adam Lambert
I felt like I had his vocal range. Spoiler alert: I didn’t. Also: what I sang in my head every time someone from high school reached out to me…
If I Die Young – The Band Perry
My co-worker’s young daughter loved this song. And creepily sang every word as she stared deep into my eyes. I lived to tell the tale.
Shout It Out – Hanson
Yes, it’s another boy band album. I truly love all of the upbeat music on this, and it’s great for running through the sprinklers and then enjoying a bomb pop on a summer day (or upbeat music for your NYE)!
2011
Under the Mistletoe – Justin Bieber
My sister received a video invitation to a Christmas party in Manhattan, New York that featured this song. And it was original and funny and I can’t help but love the song now.
Rolling in the Deep – Adele
Power ballad and my introduction to Adele [insert heart eyes]
Party Rock Anthem – LMFAO
My little bro learned the dance. We made the gold box head from the video for him. This was his anthem.
Raise Your Glass – P!nk
Underdogs. Weirdos. Dirty little freaks. I’ve never felt so seen…
F**kin’ Perfect – P!nk
NOW I feel seen.
Look At Me Now – Chris Brown ft Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes
I spent an entire week vacationing in San Diego practicing rapping to Busta’s verse. I got most of it, performed it at my 21st birthday party, and retired from the rap game.
Good Life – OneRepublic
Upbeat. Meaningful. Nostalgic. Perfect for a party!
Pretty Girl Rock – Keri Hilson
Because, of course.
Jessie J’s entire album: Who You Are
Spent the summer – and fall and winter and spring – driving around with my twin sis rockin’ out to this one! Daddio’s favorite is Price Tag
Threw it on the Ground – The Lonely Island
Makes me giggle. Referenced often to this day.
2012
Somebody That I Used to Know – Gotye
Just one of those songs from 2012 that defined the year…because it was played non-stop on every radio station. So, everyone knows it.
We Are Young – Fun
Another one of those anthems for people of all ages about going out and painting the town red – or setting it on fire, whatever
Ni**as in Paris – Jay Z and Kanye West
A fun one that made at least SOMETHING in Blades of Glory funny.
Birthday Cake – Rihanna ft Chris Brown
Super weird collaboration following his assaulting her and the romantic breakup that followed 3 years prior…but a super catchy – albeit sometimes annoying – track.
2013
Thrift Shop – Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
Who didn’t love this song, and then become a complete thrift shop junkie? It took me years to get back to thrifting and getting anything good!
Flawless – Beyonce
Empowerment anthem OF THE DECADE. And, most days? I DID wake up like this.
Mirrors – Justin Timberlake
Cried. Sang it with the windows down driving up the 101. Made my bridal party do a dance to it. There is video evidence.
Royals – Lorde
I had somehow forgotten this song. It played in perpetuity from 2013-the KC Royals 2015 World Series Championship. Now I can’t get it out of my head…
Wrecking Ball – Miley Cyrus
An ode to Miley’s breakup, breakdown and ripping off the bandaid that was her Disney persona. And you, too, can get a skin for your MacBook that turns your Apple logo into the wrecking ball in question.
Girl on Fire – Alicia Keys
ANOTHER empowerment anthem? We will take all of them we can get!
Try – P!nk
Have you ever seen the music video? Watch it. NOW.
You and I – John Legend
Hell, really I just mean all of the album “Love in the Future”. Best of 2013.
2014
Happy – Pharrell Williams
Who doesn’t want a feel-good song to take you from down in the dumps, to dancing on the hood of your car? Or the bar? Or the table or the street?
All of Me – John Legend
Bawled. Became first dance at wedding. Years later, I told John Legend to his face that he only makes music to purposefully make me cry. And he guaranteed tears at his concert. And he delivered. Damn him.
Turn Down for What – DJ Snake and Lil Jon
Only video I took at my wedding: Dance off in the foreground between 5 VERY white boys to this song. In the background? Family friend Russian kicking my 9-year-old niece into 2016.
Chandelier – Sia
I DO want to swing from the chandeli-here!
The Man – Aloe Blacc
Best basketball warm up song. Best slideshow music for the graduating seniors of the St. Pius X high school basketball team.
Partition – Beyonce
This one just has me feelin’ myself, no matter what mood I was in before! In fact, I’m going to go listen to it, now!
2015
See You Again – Wiz Khalifa ft Charlie Puth
First death of a friend my age. This played on a slideshow. He’s all I think of when I hear it and I cry. Which means I cried while watching Fast and the Furious. But not because of Fast and the Furious.
Take Me to Church – Hozier
The year I really STOPPED going to church. But his voice more than made up for it!
Elastic Heart – Sia
Two words: Shia. Labeouf.
Outlaws – Alessia Cara
I felt like this was the anthem for myself and my fellow entrepreneurs as we retreated in the mountains and built our businesses and white-water rafted and had a jolly ole time.
House Party – Sam Hunt
How the twin and I have always lived our lives: entertaining from the comfort of our own homes.
2016
Love Yourself – Justin Bieber
Sorry – Justin Bieber
OK, let’s be honest. The whole damn album. I’m not embarrassed. I danced my way through 2016 to JB.
Work from Home – Fifth Harmony
I had just started working from home as a full-time freelancer when this one came out. So, it was constantly in my head – and is a fun one to dance to, as well!
Just Like Fire – P!nk
Apparently, I am drawn to fire. I believe it’s the Aries in me…
One Call Away – Charlie Puth
Sister broke up with her boyfriend. I rallied the troops and had friends and family from across the US lip sync on video and put it together as a breakup gift. And a perpetual reminder.
Sit Still, Look Pretty – Daya
Calling society in to question. While being catchy and easy to dance to? Yes, please and thank you! Because smashing the patriarchy can and should feel a hell of a lot more fun!
Lost Boy – Ruth B
Haunting, gender-bending, put into question how we see ourselves vs. how we are seen.
I know, deep, right?
2017
HUMBLE – Kendrick Lamar
I saw this one as a challenge for me to be less humble and take up space, while also singing along loudly in the direction of folx who need to sit the f*** down, shut up and listen.
Say You Won’t Let Go – James Arthur
Does anyone else see Jane and Rafael from Jane the Virgin when they listen to this song? No? Just me?
Redbone – Childish Gambino
A range and style no one expected, but everyone needed.
Slow Hands – Niall Horan
Sexy from a former One Directioner…I should have seen it coming.
Sorry Not Sorry – Demi Lovato
Hate the saying. LOVE the song.
DNA – Kendrick Lamar
The BEST song to lift heavy weights and smash a bag around to! TRY to tell me differently!
Better Life – P!nk
Sad and beautiful. It helps me to stop and take inventory and answer P!nk’s question for myself.
Younger Now – Miley Cyrus
How I feel with each passing year…
Bastards – Kesha
First song on her 2017 album. “Don’t let the bastards get you down” (America’s official slogan since, what, 2016?)
Everybody Lost Somebody – Bleachers
Bleachers makes depression fun by helping folx find commonalities in one another. YOU are not alone!
[Some of the above songs are in the article about favorite albums I wrote to wrap up 2017: http://imperfectfifth.com/top-17-of-2017-from-someone-whose-opinion-you-shouldnt-care-about/]
2018
Finesse – Bruno Mars and Cardi B
LOVE the throwback late 80s/early 90s sound. MORE PLEASE!
All The Stars – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
Black Panther. Entire Marvel/Disney soundtrack produced by Kendrick Lamar. My mom is friends with SZA’s mom.
This is America – Childish Gambino
Calling us out. Poignant. This IS America. Always and still.
God is a Woman – Ariana Grande
Finally. Someone got it right.
Shape of You – Ed Sheeran
I’m still trying to hate it. But every time it comes on – and it still does a LOT – my foot just gets a’tappin’!
Thank U, Next – Ariana Grande
I find myself singing this at my husband of 5+ years. Gotta keep um on their toes!
Hey Look Ma, I Made It – Pan!c at the Disco
Haven’t heard much from Pan!c since the mid 2000s…and now they are back and better than ever! In fact: theirs was my favorite show of 2019 (and Elizabeth’s! Check out her review here: http://imperfectfifth.com/elizabeths-favorite-shows-of-2019-dont-threaten-me-with-a-good-time/)
2019
7 Rings – Ariana Grande
Sound of Music is my favorite. And so are my bitches (though, I don’t have 6 of them…probably)
Old Town Road – Lil Nas X ft Billy Ray Cyrus
Lil Nas X became a role model, THEN came out (and became an even BIGGER role model), all while trolling us with this annoyingly catchy – but really bad – anthem of 2019.
Bad Guy – Billie Eilish
Hate to say it…I love it. Because, well, I don’t always want to be the nice guy!
I Don’t Care – Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber
This is literally how I feel about everyone and everything. Except for my family. Sometimes. Other times, it’s exactly how I feel about all humans except myself.
Homecoming: The Live Album – Beyonce
Watching it live. Listening to it in its entirety. Tears to my eyes and over a decade of music and emotions.
___
Learn more about Erin at EZVisibility.com.
by Meredith Schneider | Jul 20, 2018 | soundtrack
Hip hop artist Mocha Bands is next on our list of incredible artists providing the world with a fun playlist. With this one, we get to peep into her list of influence and see what she enjoys in her free time. With this stunner playlist, it looks like we might have a pretty nostalgic – and super incredible – weekend. So turn it on, turn it up, and let loose!
Biggie Smalls Juicy
Jay Z Izzo (H.O.V.A)
Busta Rhymes Respect my conglomerate
Biggie smalls Who shot ya
Tupac Hit em up
Lauryn Hill Lost ones
Miss Mary J Blige My life
Kendrick Lamar Alright
Jay Z Big pimpin
Nas One mic
Nas The world is yours
Puff Daddy All about the Benjamins
Keep up with Mocha Bands here.
by ImperfectFifth | Jun 1, 2018 | soundtrack
Serving up vibes that capture the more ominous side of being an artist. Consumed by intense highs and lows. Love, lust, money, drugs, business politics, and a consciousness of freedom. The track list opens with a love driven hip hop ballad. Personally, I chase an overwhelming feeling of love / lust for writing inspiration. Tracks 2 – 5 focus more on the grind, the consuming work environment that is the music industry. This sort of career is life changing. It’s hard to describe, but sounds do it justice. Tracks 6 – 8 are more so about freeing conscious from the darker side of the music industry and intoxicating loves ; breaking free ; living a fluid life while maintaining balance. Through all the highs & lows of life, DON’T STOP.
Mac Miller ft. Kendrick Lamar – God is Fair, Sexy, Nasty
G Eazy – Summer in December
Post Malone – Paranoid
Drake – 30 for 30
Two Door Cinema Club – Do You Want It All
XXXTentacion & Joey Badass – 888
ZHU – My Life
Coldplay – A Head Full of Dreams
Keep up with Mia LJ here.
by Erin P.S. Zimmerman | Dec 30, 2017 | soundtrack, wolf tracks
…But, I did take a look afterwards, and a lot of these made OTHER top lists, so there! If you haven’t heard some of these, add them to a NYE playlist or sit at home and listen to them! They run the gamut when it comes to type, style, moods to listen in…heck, I even suggest wine with a whole album (whether that is 1 glass or 3 bottles…that is up to you)! Regardless, have a Happy New Year, and keep supporting music that means something as we move into 2018!
Kendrick Lamar – DAMN.
This was a close second to my most anticipated album of the year. This album tells a story, so for the best effect, listen to all the songs in order in one sitting! The way that Kendrick’s voice flows so naturally, it’s like it’s a narration to a deeper story, and this album is just the tip of the iceberg.
Favorite:
DNA – This is my favorite heavy lifting song, my favorite running song, my favorite tackle-the-challenge song…did I mention it’s my favorite? At first, “Humble” really had me hooked, but one listen to this, and it was over. And the video? One of my favorite EVER. It co-stars KC native, Don Cheadle (now, are you intrigued?)
P!NK – Beautiful Trauma
I was waiting for this one. For a VERY long time. And it just doesn’t disappoint. As P!NK has grown and changed over the years, you can very much hear that she is the same person that showed up – seemingly out of nowhere – back in 1997. Her power vocals remain the same, as does her knack for storytelling, but the stories change. This time around she tackles relationship woes, family life, and all those thoughts going on in her head – an open book, singing about all we wish to say. And I just want more!
Favorites:
Better Life – Hands down my favorite. Because, who doesn’t sometimes wonder if their significant other may want something different? And, somehow, she makes it catchy and thrilling!
I Am Here – A declaration that she is here, her voice is important, and she is not backing down for anything. A little nudge at permission for the rest of us to never let anyone silence us.
Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken – For those who might be a little overwhelmed or downtrodden, especially in our current political climate. Here is our rallying cry.
Miley Cyrus – Younger Now
Somehow, this slipped my radar when it released back in September, and I didn’t give it a listen until late November. Now, all I can think is: WHY DID IT TAKE ME SO LONG? I am not, historically, a Cyrus fan, but she is finally coming into her own with a mix of country and pop that is not slippery sweet, but somehow raw and dreamy. And I wish there weren’t so few tracks!
Favorites:
Rainbowland – This one features Dolly Parton, and it DEFINITELY sounds like a more traditional Parton song…but it is positive and upbeat and makes you want to sleep forever and live in a damn Rainbowland – or maybe even try to make one of your own in real life!
Miss You So Much – This one is a bit on the stalker side, just without dark and creepy undertones. And it’s totally how I feel about my husband. I will just leave it at that.
Younger Now – The past handful of years of Cyrus’ life in a nutshell. She’s gone through a lot of changes and phases, and somehow has come out the other end feeling younger than she was then. I really resonate with it – maybe you can, too!
Harry Styles – Harry Styles
Harry Styles’ self-titled solo debut was my album of Summer 2017. Nothing I EVER thought I would say. Ever. There are no outright pop songs. Instead, Styles has chosen 10 tracks with melodies and instrumentation – even recording style – that calls back to Brit rockers of the1960s (think: Beatles, Rolling Stones). I know that may seem like high praise, but give it a listen. You will hear it. It’s not just the sound that has me turning this sucker up on an afternoon walk, evening drive, or even while I make breakfast in the morning, but lyrics that are a mix of fun, soulful, and a bit angsty.
Favorite:
Two Ghosts – This one is all about a love gone cold. How everything is the same as it always has been, but the passion and feelings that once were there have left the building. It’s something in between a break up and a love song, and it is heart-shattering.
Bishop Briggs
Her. Voice. Is. HOLYSHIT. So soulful. So smooth, so powerful, so seemingly effortless. I truly have no other words. Give her album a listen. Especially her newest release, “Dream”.
Sam Smith – The Thrill of It All
I truly didn’t think that so much more emotion could come out of one person into an album, but with his sophomore album, I can FEEL more sadness as he sings. And, it doesn’t make me sad. It just makes me FEEL.
Favorite:
All I can say is that you need to grab a bottle (or two) of cabernet, draw a bath, and listen to the whole damn thing.
Lana Del Rey – Lust For Life
Does anyone remember Katy Perry’s recent album? Well, this did everything that Perry intended, and THEN some! Lana’s sultry voice lends itself to a story of awakening in our country’s current state, and somehow surviving it all – like every generation before us. These aren’t idyllic pop songs, but songs that make you feel a part of a bigger whole. And, with just a year and a half between her last release and this one, you KNOW it was spurred by current events.
Favorites:
God Bless America – And All The Beautiful Women In It – Hauntingly gorgeous.
When The World Was At War We Kept Dancing – MESSAGE: Don’t stop living when our country seems to be falling apart around you. Hopeful without being too idealistic.
Khalid – American Teen
In his debut album, Khalid let’s us know that he is fully aware of how disconnected and digital the life of an American teen has become. He doesn’t embrace it like – seemingly – every other young person. He rips it apart as he flows through each track. Though, I am sure many teenagers have held tight to this album as their anthem, it is a great one to give a listen no matter what you are doing if you want smooth vocals and music you can dance or relax to.
Kesha – Rainbow
It’s been awhile since we had a new Kesha album…and, to be honest, I was OK with that. Her previous music was NOT my jam. It should have been my college party soundtrack – and, trust me, I LOVE glitter – but I just couldn’t get behind Kesha. Now, I can. And it’s not just knowing her full story and struggles and the WHY behind it all. It’s also not just my feminist tendencies to support women who are into creating great things. Kesha is finally using her voice. Never have I been so happy when autotune is taken out of the equation. She can REALLY sing, and sing she does! Her album is a rallying cry for everyone who has felt like any part of their lives is a struggle. Every single song involves messages of independence and empowerment, whether they are set to ballads or party beats.
Favorite:
Bastards – …and this is just the FIRST song! Once you hear it, you will understand why the rest of the album is necessary listening!
Tyler, The Creator – Flower Boy
This is NOT what I was expecting from Tyler. But, why should I expect the same from someone who has always done what he wants, and sounds good doing it? This is a much more mellow album from one of my favorites, and it brings some heavy and big messages along with it. Also: please, if you choose to listen to this, appreciate the instrumentals as well! YESSSSS
Favorites:
Where this Flower Blooms – Ever feel different from everyone else? Or, confused because you don’t want to be “normal”? This song gives EVERYONE permission to do whatever the hell they want, no matter their age. Give it a listen…
Glitter – I love glitter. And this refers to someone feeling like glitter when they are around the person they love. Ka-ching!
Ed Sheeran – ÷
Every single Ed Sheeran album that comes out has about 5 years worth of “first dance” wedding songs on them. This one is no different…and this time he calls on his current romantic relationship as his muse! And, I like romantic songs as much as the next person – who isn’t currently going through a breakup – but those weren’t my favorites on the album! Watch the videos for the songs below and really listen to the lyrics…and dance along for the best experience!
Favorites:
Shape of You – I don’t care what I am doing, I drop EVERYTHING and groove to this one!
Castle on the Hill – Somehow he has made a freeing song that makes you feel like you are running across the hilltops of Ireland out of pure nostalgia. Mmmmm
Galway Girl – modern Irish jig based on his grandparents’ relationship. What more could you ask for?
Sza – CTRL
All I can really say about this one is: FINALLY. She says all the things you are thinkin’, girl, and puts some amazing music to it, too! You can FEEL the emotion in this one!
Favorite:
The Weekend – Ready to feel like the sexiest person in the room? Give this track a listen NOW!
Jay-Z – 4:44
At first, I thought this one was a cop out. Beyonce releases Lemonade, so Jay-Z feels the need to respond, right? But, then I thought, “Oh, wait, he needed to release something new.” And he does. And it’s personal and raw and real and a near masterpiece!
Favorite: Just listen to the whole thing. It only takes up 35 minutes of your time, and I don’t think any one song is as good as all of them together. Also: watch the videos if you can! Bey really challenged him to step up his game in the visual department, and it is paying off in dividends for fans!
Run the Jewels – Run the Jewels 3
Can I just take a moment to declare that 2017 has been FIRE for MOVEMENT? And, this album is a movement in itself to eradicate oppression and seek social justice for all. All delivered in a VERY listenable package with beats that would make your grandma shake it!
Favorites:
Call Ticketron – I don’t need to explain it. Trust and give it a try!
Thieves! (Screamed the Ghost) – In response to recent riots. Yet, not fuel for the fire, but definitely a soundtrack for the movement. There is a flow to it unlike any other
Hanson – Middle of Everywhere
Can you believe it’s been 25 years since the brother band, “Hanson”, decided they should form a band? To celebrate, they released an album with some new tracks, as well as oldies-but-goodies.
Favorites:
I Was Born – Here we have one of the new tracks. It’s a great, poppy, inspirational song written for the band’s kids. And the stars of the video? Their kids!
Broken Angel – Not a new one. But SO happy it’s getting a little spotlight being featured on this album! It features the youngest, Zac, on vocals. And his voice is so smooth and soulful, you will wonder if you are actually listening to the same band!
Bleachers – Gone Now
This sucker opened to mixed reviews. But, I loved it from the first time I heard it through live, and it has since become a very nostalgia and dance-filled experience for me. Sounds from decades before and inspired by many musicians – including Springsteen – I can’t help but feel Jack Antonoff’s reaching for the stars and sharing the span of his life in music on one album, with the album title referring to past him being gone now. Feel it with me, and take a listen!
Favorite:
Everybody Lost Somebody – It is the early 90s anthem for us NOW. Bringing humans together around the idea that everyone has felt pain, and everybody has lost somebody. Doesn’t hurt that you can also dance to it!
Moon – Hang On EP
The best EP that most people haven’t heard made my list because, well, they are BADASS. The lead vocalist, Chelsea Davis, adds power to the words while also somehow drumming simultaneously. Seeing them live is a necessity, so that you can feel it while listening to the EP.
Favorite:
I Got a Fever – Sensual power and soul wrapped into one song.
by Meredith Schneider | Oct 11, 2017 | wolf tracks
Today, Ashland, Oregon based indie collective Slow Corpse – comprised of Mitchell Winters (vocals, guitar), Brenton Clarke (guitar), Cole Zollinger (bass), Sean Siders (drums), and Dash Curtis (keys) – is bringing a tasty treat to your eyes, just in time for Halloween. Their crawling, darker recut of Kendrick Lamar’s intense “Bitch, Don’t Kill My Vibe” has its own music video, and we’ve got your first look.
Filmed and edited by Jordan Kourupes at with Novum Visuals, the video for “Bitch, Don’t Kill My Vibe” was written and directed by Slow Corpse’s own Brenton Clarke. Bathed in cool jewel tones, the video is the modern version of every turn of the century rapper music video, but created for hipsters. Slow motion dancing, covered in smoke, no personal space, people wearing all types of clothing and participating in cultish activities.
You know, that.
Check out the mesmerizing, smooth version of “Bitch, Don’t Kill My Vibe” and don’t let anyone kill your vibe, no matter what you’re into.
Keep up with Slow Corpse here.
