Gorillaz – D-Sides

I’ve been a fan of the Gorillaz for some time now. From their debut and the massively popular single “Clint Eastwood” to their more recent album Demon Days – I’ve enjoyed the ride. For this reason, I decided to look into their latest effort (D-Sides) which is a compilation of rarities, b-sides and remixes taken from Demon Days. For the record, I’m not usually a fan of b-sides/remix albums – as I find they’re often a money grab. However, I can honestly recommend this set of two-discs as a full body of work that can easily stand on its own.

The Gorillaz had previously released an album titled G-Sides that was similar in concept to D-Sides and accompanied their first release (Gorillaz) with an assortment of remixes and rarities. However, D-Sides took this one step further with a full collection of outtakes and remixes of the highest order. As aforementioned, there was so much content that it had to put onto two discs. The first is complied of b-sides while the second consists of remixes.

Initially, as I listened through, I wasn’t much interested in the b-sides disc as it seemed a little too lifeless and downbeat for my liking. It absolutely had a different feel than Demon Days. However, I was sucked in almost immediately to the remix disc. In a way, I was easily impressed, as the songs they chose to remix (Dare and Kids With Guns) were some of my favourite tracks off Demon Days. Yet, the artists that reworked these songs were incredibly talented also. The leadoff track (Dare) was redone by DFA and rolls in over 12 minutes. Sensational. Other unbelievable efforts by Soulwax and Hot Chip add a touch of remix class to be sure.

I listened to this second disc constantly for awhile. Then, I thought it was time to give the first disc another chance. I’m glad I did. In spite of its diversity, it’s a solid effort. The brains behind Gorillaz (Damon Albarn) used to be the vocalist and creative source for another huge British band called Blur. In my opinion, this first disc has a real Blur-esque touch at times. Or maybe I should say Damon Albarn touch. There are a few tracks (We Are Happy Landfill and Stop The Dams) that might not be out of place on a Blur album. This is all a good thing – as I happen to like Blur as well!

I think it’s possible to listen to both discs as their own entity as well as meshed together as one long Gorillaz opus. You can’t really lose. It’s quality music from the ground up. Now, if you don’t like the whole Gorillaz/Blur vibe – then this album could be a colossal waste of time. On the other hand, if you’re even a tad interested in the sounds and feelings of the Gorillaz world – it’s well worth every minute. My only complaint might be that the remix disc can be a bit monotonous at times because some of the tracks are remixed multiple times. Otherwise…let it flow!




Gorillaz Official Website

Gorillaz YouTube Page

Gorillaz MySpace Page

Against Me! – New Wave

Continuing on with last week’s post, I have absolutepunk to thank for this incredible band. And, again, this was a band I wasn’t sold on at first but this newer album changed things dramatically. Against Me! have strong punk roots, starting at the bottom and working their way up. Their journey began in Florida all the way back in 1997. I can’t say I was around at that point but I am all over their newest release: New Wave.

This newest disc, then, has some people up in arms because it is their first leap into the mainstream with a major label. Truthfully, I didn’t know anything about them before Searching For A Former Clarity which was released in 2005. In fact, it was their performance on Conan O’Brien that made me stand up and take notice. That song “Don’t Lose Touch” was very much catchy and yet hit hard with originality and a punk ethic. I looked into the disc a bit – but nothing really pulled me in. Yet, there was something about Tom Gabel’s voice that was raw and riveting.

So this brings me to New Wave. As mentioned, based on an encouraging review, I gave New Wave a solid listen. It took me right from the gate – it was tighter, focused and even more likable. I was sold. Some of the older fans might write it off as watered down rock music, with none of the punk attitude, but I don’t think they’ve strayed too far from their beginnings. Musically, it’s brilliant but the lyrics match its ferocity to a tee. There’s enough politics, romance and general zaniness to make everyone happy.

I think their latest single is "Thrash Unreal" and it deserves to be. So much energy! Like I said, it’s Gabel’s voice that brings it all together. I’ll post two videos for you: "Thrash Unreal" and "Stop." Prepare to get involved.

Against Me! Official Site

Against Me! MySpace Page