So, I’m back from New York. Sorry for the lack of posts in the last week, but it was tough to get to my laptop in such a happening city. I’m gonna post a round up of some of the music stuff I saw in the city shortly.

In the meantime,  here’s a classic clip from the YouTube vault. If you’ve seen the video before, it’s worth another watch, trust me. The video features Sesame Street favourites, Bert & Ernie, getting their thug on to the classic hip-hop track, “Ante Up,” by M.O.P. The guy responsible for this editing deserves an Oscar. No Joke.

I’m in New York this week, so I haven’t exactly been keeping to my regular blog routine. Sorry. As a result, Music Video Monday is happening on a Tuesday this week. You’ll have to get over that.

The good news is that we’ve got some classics this week from contemporary blues-rock kings, The Black Keys. If you haven’t heard of them before, I really suggest that you take the time to check them out. Not only do they make face-meltingly good rock music but they also have some pretty funny music videos to go along with it. Anyways, let’s get on with it.

First up is the official video for the group’s single, “Tighten Up,” from their new album Brothers. Judging by the vid, I guess it’s true that boys never really do stop fighting over girls.

Next is a video for their song “Next Girl,” also off of Brothers. It features one VERY lucky and in demand dinosaur puppet.

Finally, this one is the video for the song “Your Touch,” off of the band’s 2006 album, Magic Potion. I don’t even know what the heck is going on here, so you draw your own conclusions.

What do you think?

Robyn

Body Talk Pt. 1

(4/5)

Robyn has been out of the music scene for 4 years, which, judging by her newest release, was WAY too long.

The album, Body Talk Pt. I, is, in short, an electro-pop gem packed with enough would be hits to make Lady Gaga nervous. The album’s lead single, “Dancing On My Own,” is a shoe-in to be a certified club smash this Summer. The song’s pulsating synth-beat is overlaid with Robyn’s honest lyricism, detailing the pain of witnessing an ex-boyfriend out at the club with a new girl. “I’m in the corner, watching you kiss her,” she sings, and then goes on to ask, “I’m right over here, why can’t you see me?” In the middle of the anthem, the backing track drops off to leave only Robyn’s voice as she closes the chance encounter with the words, “So far away but still so near … I just came to say goodbye,” which is met, seconds later, with a machine gun beat that kicks the song into a climax that would make any club DJ drool.

The middle heart of the album is the strongest and boasts a great selection of pop jams. Leading the way is “Cry When You Get Older, “ a track in which Robyn pleads with her audience to sing along, as she plays the part of the seasoned veteran, schooled in the ways of heartbreak, giving advice to wide-eyed youth everywhere; “love hurts when you do it right; you can cry when you get older,” she declares. Meanwhile, on “Dancehall Queen,” Robyn showcases a need to dance, almost as if it’s therapeutic, as she recounts a solo night out. “I came to dance not to socialize … I really don’t want no hassle,” she sings, as if to camouflage her vulnerability.

To contrast this album with much of the electro-pop trash on the radio takes little effort:  Robyn’s album is packed with smart, emotional lyricism where so many artists’ efforts are hollow; the catchy beats and synthesizers support her vocals rather than overcompensate for their lack; and the unbelievably catchy choruses are resonant rather than disposable. At only 8 songs, the album runs a bit short. But this disappointment is quelled by the fact that Robyn plans to release 3 albums this year (yes, you read that correctly, 3). And then somehow, the feeling of disappointment quickly changes to one of anticipation. This is a good thing. Bring on Pt. 2, Robyn.

Video:

Robyn – “Dancing On My Own”

When I started contributing to this blog, I made a pledge to myself that I would NEVER post a dancing baby. Why, you ask? It’s just so damn typical, that’s why.

I’m breaking that promise right now. This kid is too skilled to ignore.

HAHAHA. Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino of Jersey Shore fame has released a rap track. I should have expected that one of the Jersey Shore cast would pull a stunt like this. Here’s some advice for The Situation: stick to your day job! Wait… does he have a day job?

Interesting news today coming out of Maryland. I’ve seen several notable  sites poppin up lately that remark on people’s tendency to confuse Justin Bieber with girls. See here for a completely offensive example. But this gossip tidbit takes the cake.

TMZ reports that the police were called to the “Mug and Mallet” bar in Ocean City, Maryland to reports that The Biebster, himself, was enjoying a tasty alcoholic beverage despite his tender age of 16. When the po-po arrived, the little crooner was nowhere to be found. They did however locate a Justin Biebs lookalike. The only problem is, the lookalike was a she.

Head to the TMZ story here to get a look at the now infamous female look-alike.

The much-hyped video for Katy Perry’s “California Gurls,” featuring Snoop Dogg, has debuted, and if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in the right place.

The video depicts Perry frolicking through a utopian candy land board-game-come-to-life setting, under the watchful eye of the candy land overlord, Snoop Dogg. The storyline goes something like this: Katy finds herself wandering through a wondrous landscape of ice cream and lollipops, only to discover that Snoop and his gummy bear henchmen have trapped all of her girly dancing friends. She makes it her mission to begin freeing them all, at which point, they all burst into a bunch of dance numbers and end up defeating Snoop and his army of chewy chums with an interesting choice of artillery. Oh wait, one more important point: KATY PERRY NAKED IN THE CLOUDS! KATY PERRY NAKED IN THE CLOUDS!

Now that I’ve gotten that out of my system, let’s move on to another observation of mine. About a week ago, Lady Gaga released her anticipated video for her summer jam, “Alejandro” (see this post here for the review). After the release, there was a lot of noise made throughout the Internet gossip scene regarding an apparent Twitter of Katy’s that criticized aspects of Gaga’s vid. That’s all fair. But what I couldn’t help but notice is how just about every major feature in both vids seems to have a direct opposite in each other. I mean, one is set in a warm fuzzy dreamworld; the other is set in a cold, depressing nightmare. Both have dancing troupes: one all female, one all male. Two naked starlets: one golden tanned, one fair skinned. Both have bra enhancements: one has machine guns, the other has whipped cream weaponry. Need I go on?

Now I’m not trying to say that the two videos were planned together. But what I am trying to say is that maybe that so-called Twitter attack wasn’t in fact an attack at all. I mean, what a great way to grab some publicity for both videos.

If you ask me, this California Gurls video adds a little smiley-faced emoticon on the end of her 140-character criticism to let us in on the joke. I smell a publicity stunt. Nicely done.

What do you think?

You probably only know her as Jenny Humphrey off of the TV show “Gossip Girl,” but, by night, 16 year old Taylor Momsen holds down lead singer duties for the rock group The Pretty Reckless. Their sound is full of heavy, snarling, distortion underneath Taylor’s powerful pipes. Though It might not be breaking any Rock n’ Roll boundaries, it sure as hell beats most other TV stars’ musical attempts (*ah hem* Does the name Heidi Montag ring any bells?).

Check out the groups’ new EP that’s streaming now on Billboard.com right here.

Recommended song: “My Medicine.” On it, Taylor’s vocals have a bit of a Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs sound to them.

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She's got 99 problems and an ITCH is one.

Got a better caption? Lemme know in the comments.

This week’s Music Video Monday has a theme. As an ode to good old fashioned film, I decided to put together a list of my favourite ever black and white music videos (or at least the ones I can remember). The black and white visual format is still one of the simplest but most effective ways of stylizing an image, whether it’s a still image or moving video.

Without further ado, here’s my list.

5. Amy Winehouse – Back to Black

Before she became better known for her antics than her art, Amy Winehouse made great music. Because of that, this video feels bittersweet. It’s sad that this kind of talent has gone to waste over the last few years.  I’m still holding out hope that we’ll be able to hear more great music from Amy in the future, but for now, check out this black and white video for the title track off of her 2006 album, Back to Black.

4. Coldplay – Talk

Directed by Anton Corbijn, the video for the single “Talk,” off Coldplay’s album X&Y,  sees the band embark on a space journey in their flying saucer to a planet with a very strange inhabitant. The vid is classic with its corny science fiction film style.

3. Jay-Z – 99 Problems

The Marcy Projects area of New York — where Jay grew up — is notorious for crime and violence. The video for the song “99 Problems,” off of his 2004 album The Black Album, is set against the rough backdrop of his home neighbourhood. The decision to shoot the video for 99 Problems in black and white does well to convey the mood of such a depressing situation. It makes #3 on the list.

(*Just a bit of a warning though, the video has some graphic content)

2. Nirvana – In Bloom

This one is brilliant. Kurt Cobain and the boys perfectly contrast the clean cut feel of 50’s and 60’s variety show bands with the chaos and anarchy associated with grunge music at the time. And if that isn’t enough reason to watch it, you get to see the entire band wearing dresses.

1. Beyonce – Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)

The official YouTube video for Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” has over 87 million views and has been parodied and reworked more times than I can count. It’s simple black and white visual and unbelievable dance choreography make it an easy choice for #1 on this list. Kanye West got a lot of flack for his unforgettable Taylor Swift MTV Awards show interruption when he yelled the now infamous quote, “Beyonce had one of the best videos of all time!” A lot of the criticism he received was obviously very much deserved. But amidst all the fuss, people seemed to forget one important fact: he was right.

Let me just tell you, I am a Rock Band legend.  That’s why this post makes me VERY happy.

Check out the video below, courtesy of USA Today, for a quick preview of what to expect from Rock Band 3, arriving this holiday season. One word: KEYBOARD!

Also, head to the official Rock Band webpage for a look at the track list and some other details about the game. My favourite of the confirmed tracks so far have to be “Get Free” by The Vines and of course, the timeless track, “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen.

Oh and if anybody out there is looking for a virtual lead vocalist, call me.

One. More. Day.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup opens tomorrow in South Africa. Needless to say, I’m unbelievable pumped, and I’m not the only one. As the most watched sporting event in the world, it’s sure to capture the attention of the entire globe.

Part of the festivities include FIFA’s pick for the official theme song of the tournament. Their choice this time around is  “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” performed by Shakira and Freshlyground. Reaction has been mixed, with many fans from the host nation expressing their disappointment with the track, and particularly the choice of Shakira as performer of a song meant to reflect African culture.

Also, major sponsor Coca-Cola has chosen their own song to represent their World Cup campaign. They’ve picked “Wavin’ Flag (Coca-Cola Celebration Mix)” by K’NAAN as their tournament anthem.

In my opinion, at least both songs are better than the 2002 pick of “Boom” by Anastacia. It’s terribly awful. I’m talking absolutely, horrendously awful. Uh huh, that bad. Have a listen to it, and some other past theme songs below, and let me know what you think of ‘em.

Shakira & Freshlyground – Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)

K’NAAN – Wavin’ Flag (Coca-Cola Celebration Mix)

Other songs after the jump…

Read the rest…

I have a special admiration for these kinda bands. It’s a tough job being a not-so-talented, over the hill, professional musician doing what you can to make a buck.  Anybody that’s seen The Wedding Singer can attest to that. This group, complete with ugly mustard colour glitter jackets and bad haircuts, looks just like your typical second-rate band. That is, until about 40 seconds in. Somebody get this rock star a better gig.

So, Lady Gaga’s new music video has dropped, which is great news if you’ve been looking for a VERY quick way to make grandma spit up her mashed potatoes.

The video for her new single, “Alejandro,” is a near 9-minute epic that’s littered with enough blasphemy and sexual imagery to make Madonna blush. Using a heavily stylized, throwback military theme, a heavy helping of half naked models, and a severe lack of lighting, Gaga, and director Steven Kline, craft a music video that shocks in too many ways to count.

On first watch, it’s clear that the video owes a great deal to Madonna. The resemblance to Madonna’s classic Vogue video isn’t subtle – including a dance sequence where Gaga’s cone bra is strangely equipped with machine guns. Director Steven Kline was a frequent collaborator of Madonna’s as well. But where Madonna’s Vogue drew the line, Lady Gaga runs right past it.

Simulated sex (both hetero and homo) and gender blurring wardrobes abound for a good part of the 8 and some odd minutes. And to add a little extra helping of controversy to what was already sure to be water cooler talk, she adorns herself in a nun’s outfit and adds in enough blasphemy, and then some, to nab the ire of religious groups, worldwide.

By the end, the whole thing left me feeling slightly uncomfortable. Maybe that’s art. Maybe that’s over the top. Some will hate it. Others will love it. But if you ask me, that means a pop star is doing their job.

Where do you stand?

(*Note: The video contains suggestive sexual imagery. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.)

For most college kids, holding a job while in school usually means flipping burgers at a local fast food joint or bussing tables at the campus pub. Not for Mike Posner.

As a graduating senior at Duke University, Posner already has a record deal to his name, and is quickly making his way onto every summer playlist with his new single “Cooler Than Me.” His combination of smooth vocals and futuristic pop beats make Posner a soon-to-be smash hit.

As a musical talent from a young age, Posner’s career started as an early teen crafting beats on his parents’ computer. In a few short years, Posner has released 2 buzzworthy mixtapes, 2009’s “A Matter of Time” and “One Foot Out the Door,” both of which include features from the likes of Kid Cudi and Big Sean.

2010 looks promising for Mike, as his first full length album is due to hit stores. Keep your ears and eyes perked for an album release date or a tour stop in your town.

Peep the videos below for a taste of Mike’s talent, and head on over to MikePosner.com for a free download of his single, “Cooler Than Me.” If you’re smart, you’ll grab as the perfect addition to your summer poolside playlist.

“Cooler Than Me” Official Video

“You Don’t Have to Leave”

Hey, Lassie, let’s see you do this.

The summer music season is upon us.

Every Memorial Day long weekend, I kick off my summer music season by heading to the Sasquatch Music Festival.  It’s a 3 day event filled with music, comedy, camping and loads of fun. The festival takes place at The Gorge Amphitheater, which is located basically in the middle of nowhere, about halfway between Seattle and Spokane on the edge of the Columbia River. Behind the main stage is one of the most stunning concert views you’ll ever see: a sprawling river canyon as far as the eye can see. It’s unbelievable, and probably something you have to see in person to appreciate. The photo at the top gives you a taste, but definitely doesn’t do it justice.

For those of you that have never experienced a music festival, picture your favorite camping trip of all time. Now multiply that by about 3000 times because, at the same time, you get to see some of today’s best musicians perform, often at unbelievable outdoor venues.

With that said, I’m pretty sure I don’t have to directly tell you that I had an AMAZING time for that weekend kickin’ it Sasquatch style at the Gorge.

Here’s my list of the best performances I saw, all of which are bands that you should DEFINITELY check out! I’m giving you a top 8, just ‘cause I like that number.

Full list after the jump. Read the rest…

It’s my pleasure to introduce you to our very first edition of Music Video Monday. Each Monday you’ll get a selection of the best and worst music videos from around the web.

For the first edition of Music Video Monday, we’ve got 3 videos from a band that’s likely better known for their music videos than they are for their music. It’s only fitting that OK Go kicks off our first ever Music Video Monday.

First up is a video from a couple of months back for their single, “This Too Shall Pass,” off of their album Of the Blue Colour of the Sky. The video is one continuous shot of a Rube Goldberg Machine, inside of a giant two-storey warehouse. Telling you about it won’t do it justice. Just watch it.

This next one is another version of the same song. This video was also shot in one take and includes a live performance of the song, with a little help from The Notre Dame Marching Band.

Finally, this one is one of the most famous music videos of all time, and really put OK Go on the map. You’ve probably seen it before, but it never hurts to re-watch a timeless classic. The song is “Here It Goes Again,” off of the album Oh No. Although, I think most people just call it “the treadmill song.”

I’ll be straight with you: This blog stinks.

Maybe that’s a bit too harsh. But anybody who’s checked it out lately knows that the suck level was cranked to the max. But that’s where I come in.

I’m Owen, your new resident MetroLyrics blogger. I like music. So do you. There, we’ve already got something in common! Anyways, expect a few new things goin’ on around here. Check back when you want for everything from artist profiles to concert reviews to hilariously pointless videos. My theory is, anything that I like, you might like too. So let’s try it out and see what happens.

I think I need a really cheesy way to get this thing goin’ again…

Mission accomplished.

This week, Steve Jobs awarded a prize to the person who downloaded the 10 billionth song from iTunes. It wasn’t Lady Gaga or Beyonce, though, and the prize didn’t go to a download-happy Jr. Highschooler. The winning song was “Guess Things Happen That Way” by Johnny Cash, and it was downloaded by a 71-year-old grandfather, and in addition to a call from Jobs and Roseanne Cash, Johnny’s daughter, he won $10,000 in music. You can catch the full story on CBS news HERE, and check out the winning song below!