The Black Keys, "Tighten Up"

While we wrap up 2010, I plan to follow The Black Keys into the new year.  They've been around for the past decade, and I don't know why I really haven't heard their stuff until just now -- but it feels like they were teleported from 1976 just for my listening pleasure.  Here's a tune from their album released this year, Brothers:

Carl Anderson & Gloria Loring, "Friends And Lovers"

Carl Anderson absolutely rocked as Judas in "Jesus Christ Superstar."  If you loved him in that movie, you may very well hate what you're about to watch.

Dries Roelvink, "Alleen Door Jou"

This probably makes a lot more sense to all of the Justin's List readers in the Netherlands.

Susan Boyle, "Perfect Day"

Lou Reed collaborated with SuBo on this video & in her rendition of his classic tune.  But how much collaboration could there have been?  "Walk around a foggy lake for four-and-a-half minutes, and sing while doing that."  Though, given some of the other strange versions of this song, it all kind of makes sense.

Gary Glitter, "Rock & Roll Part 2"

Today, the Kansas City Chiefs clinched their first AFC West championship title since 2003.  It's no small feat.

To honor this accomplishment, I give you Gary Glitter.  It's easier to just close your eyes and listen to the song, imagining that you're in the middle of Arrowhead Stadium with thousands of other cheering fans; if you keep your eyes open, you'll see a man surnamed Glitter dancing around in a shiny silver suit.  Either way, it's a classic tune.  Go Chiefs!

SNL Digital Short, "On The Ground"

Who knew so many Hollywood stars carried tasers?  But they seem to have put the devices to good use.

The Carpenters, "Merry Christmas Darling"

Happy Holidays!

(Let me just go on record as saying that I liked The Carpenters version of this song -- and The Carpenters in general -- well before it was ever sung on "Glee."  The proof of that statement can be found in a series of awkward childhood memories, and we'll just leave it at that.)

Chromeo, "Night By Night"

These guys are in town in a few months, and I'm trying to figure out if the wife and I should buy tickets.  Do you see these people... very fashionable, dancing in front of a big rig to the guy with the Peter Frampton tube/box?  Not sure if we fit into that crowd.  But I like the music.  Damn, the decisions we adults have to make...

"Dream Of The 90's" from "Portlandia"

It's amazing how accurate this is.  The best part is the double-decker bicycles--I have no idea why they exist... but they're very much here in Portland.

Dr. Elmo, "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer"

Grandma "forgot her medication and staggered out into the snow"?  Sounds more like Grandma "hated herself for the family she created, and a reindeer stomping death was the quickest and easiest way out of this lifetime."

Hey, happy holidays!

Toto, "Out Of Love"

The comments on YouTube always kill me.  Like this one posted two weeks ago, about this song: "One of my favorite all time songs by anyone!"

I'm not going to identify the moniker of the person who posted that comment, for fear of ridicule--but is it really one of their favorite songs of all time, by anyone?  Haven't they ever listened to any music between, say, 1930 and 1990?  There's lots of good stuff in there, in the '80s even.  If you know this person, please help them out--at least for the holidays.

The Temptations, "Ain't Too Proud To Beg"

It's been far too long since I've posted a Motown tune.

Frank Alamo, "Heureux Tous Les Deux (So Happy Together)"

True story: When I studied French in high school, the textbooks were full of pictures of people doing things featured in this video... singing songs, swimming, sailboating, riding horses, dancing.  The only thing it's missing is a guy wearing a beret and pedaling his bike with a fresh baguette in the front basket.  C'est incroyable!

Captain Beefheart, "Ice Cream For Crow"

RIP Don Van Vliet, aka Captain Beefheart: 1941-2010.  I know absolutely nothing about the man, except that he had a loyal following.  If you're one of his fans, hopefully you'll enjoy this.

Keane, "My Shadow"

I haven't posted Keane in a while, so here's some Keane.  They're still one of the best live shows I've ever seen.  I just checked, and they don't have any plans to tour right now.  Bummer!

Rage Against The Machine, "Killing In The Name Of"

This kind of music usually isn't my cup of tea, but man, I had a crappy night--so I'll just vent through the angry words of RATM.  Do enjoy.

David Bowie & Bing Crosby, "Little Drummer Boy"

Greatest. Duo. Ever.

Peter Sellers, "When I'm Cleaning Windows"

If you've never seen "Being There," you're missing out on one driest comedies of all time--and I mean that as a compliment.  Peter Sellers doesn't play the ukulele in the film, but again, it's a dry comedy.  Great movie.

Bruce Willis, "Under The Boardwalk"

The most unfortunate thing about this is that I couldn't actually find a good live version of the original song by The Drifters.  And so here we are.

Cake, "Sick Of You"

The staff at Justin's List apologizes for not posting anything on Friday night.  The staff of one had a little too much fun at a Cake concert and then woke up a little ill the next day, only to realize that a video hadn't been posted.  So... sorry about that.  But here's Cake's newest song, so hopefully this might make up for it a little bit.

Henry Lee Summer, "Hey Baby"

Henry Lee Summer is just a good ol' fashioned crazy person.  Running out of a mobile home wearing all denim (aka: Canadian tuxedo), Henry is having delusions about his woman seeking another lover.  He pursues her -- sometimes by poorly attempting fence-jumping and acrobats -- until their sweet embrace is met in a pond.

A big thanks to Chris for passing this one along!  Mr. Summer is apparently big in Indiana, but unfortunately his fame doesn't seem to have extended far beyond the Hoosier State -- which is a shame, especially with a mullet like that.

Danielle Staub with Lori Michaels Live

I would imagine that something like this sounds and looks really awesome inside of a club at 3 a.m. while everyone is drugged out of their minds.  Minus all that, though, it's crap.

Dan Smith, "Baby Got Book"

I think the correct passage is John 8:7: "If any of you is without some J in the T, let her be the first to use the phrase Rump-o'-smooth-skin."

And for the record, a Qur'an parody of this song would have been more impressive, but it is what it is.

Led Zeppelin, "Since I've Been Loving You"

Because of Robert Plant's pants, I have rated this video PG-13.  Here's hoping you don't have a 3D monitor.

This is one of my favorite tunes by the Zep, in large part to Jimmy Page's insane guitar hands.  Here's the proof: Check out the cop at 5:00 into the video--the dude is mesmerized.  You have the right to remain rocked.

Night Ranger, "When You Close Your Eyes"

I'm not entirely sure what's happening here, but I would suggest keeping at least one eye open when these seedy characters are around.

Patti LaBelle & Michael McDonald, "On My Own"

Your eyes aren't deceiving you: In one half of the screen is Patti LaBelle in a pantsuit, and she's yearning for Michael McDonald, who is in the other half of the screen and seems to be confused by a seashell.

Spoiler alert, if you even make it to the end of the video: They don't meet.  It's probably best.  He seems to like long walks on the beach and dangerously steep cliffs, and she likes long walks over the Brooklyn Bridge in fancy coats.

Radiohead, "Knives Out"

I've never really been into Radiohead, but I just recently discovered this song and I'm kind of hooked on it.

The Jets, "You Got It All"

Believe it or not, I saw this group live, like, 20 years ago.  At an amusement park in Kansas City.  Needless to say, they were past their prime by that point.  For all I know, this is video of them currently working at -- and performing inside -- an ice cream shop.

Toni Braxton, "Un-Break My Heart"

In this four-and-a-half minute music video, you've just seen the plot of every single Tyler Perry movie.

William Shatner sings Cee Lo Green's "F*ck You!"

It's no "Rocket Man," and it's coming at a time when everyone and their dog is singing this song -- but you really can't lose by putting Shatner in front of any microphone and encouraging him to curse.

Klymaxx, "Meeting In The Ladies Room"

So when ladies head to the restroom together, I guess this is what's happening in there?  Even at baseball games?

A question: Who's the guy hooked up to the keyboard?  He's like an '80s douchebag version of Frankenstein or something.  Is there one of him in every ladies room?

I'm sorry--so many questions.  Let's just focus on how Klymaxxtastic this music video truly is.

Bertie Higgins, "Key Largo"

Easily a contender for the best first 30 seconds of a music video ever.

Steely Dan, "Reelin' In The Years"

Everyone here looks like they live in a van down by the river.  Especially Mr. Golden Pants--his amount of clapping is suspicious.

Side note: I really like "Steely Dan," and I'm currently obsessed with the song "Dirty Work."  But I can't find a good video for it, so please enjoy "Reelin' In The Years."

Dr. Feelgood, "Roxette"

The lead-singer looks kinda angry with those shadows in his eyes, almost like maybe Roxette should carry some Mace for when he rolls around.  Just sayin'.

The Commodores, "Lady (You Bring Me Up)"

I can't tell if the ref is there for soccer, or if he's there to judge a shortest-shorts contest; either way, he's got his work cut out for him.

Young MC, "Bust A Move"

Feeling a little guilty after eating all that turkey?  Did you have a gravy milkshake for breakfast this morning?  Maybe some deep-fried pumpkin pie?  Then it's probably time to bust a move!


By the way: Historians, this is EXACTLY what 1989 looked like.  Take notes.

Johnny Cash, "Thanksgiving Prayer"

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!  Thanks for visiting Justin's List as much as you do--we understand you have a lot going on your lives, and we're happy to help you procrastinate that for at least a few moments everyday.  And today that will done by Johnny Cash singing to June Carter Cash on "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman":

Jan Terri, "Baby Blues"

I can't help but feel like I'm watching evidence at a murder trial.  It's like the kind of video you'd see on "Dateline," followed by "... but little did she know the man in the black cowboy hat was actually the Honky Tonk Strangler."

As a side note, thanks to my good buddy Aaron for making sure Jan Terri was well-represented at Justin's List.  As long as I'm posting ironically-awesome videos, Jan's handiwork will always have a happy home here.

Peter Schilling, "The Different Story"

The man walking out of the foggy forest playing the pan flute really set the tone for the rest of the video.

Nirvana, "The Man Who Sold The World"

After Kurt Cobain's death, Nirvana's MTV Unplugged in New York was released posthumously--and it was huge.  And this cover of a David Bowie tune was big for years:

Gwyneth Paltrow & Huey Lewis, "Cruisin'" from "Duets"

Before Gwyneth Paltrow was singing duets on "Glee," she was singing duets in "Duets."  I don't remember much about the movie, but spoiler alert: She sings in a duet with Huey Lewis.

Elliott Smith, "Miss Misery"

Would "Good Will Hunting" have been what it was without Elliott Smith?

Kansas, "Dust In The Wind"

Looking for music videos for Kansas is my new favorite thing.  They're all so good.  Each of these four guys seems to represent a different '70s stereotype--but in all the right ways.  Like the guitarist in the powder blue wedding tux or the violinist with enough hair for eight people, and the fog rolling over as the band plays; I almost want to make a parody video, but the original is almost as hilarious, in an endearing way.

Lena Horne, "Stormy Weather"

It's November, and I'm already sick of the rain here in the Pacific Northwest.  Watching this video is the closest I want to get to rain within at least a few weeks.

So, Mother Nature, if you're listening, I've got a 6-pack of PBR and a bag of chips with your name written all over them... just lose the rain, mmmkay?

Thin Lizzy, "The Boys Are Back In Town"

I always forget how awesome Thin Lizzy is.

I was recently sitting in the car outside of a Michael's store waiting for my wife as she was shopping, and this song came on the radio.  I started rocking out, and I quickly became that creepy guy jamming to classic rock all alone in the car at the end of the parking lot.  But it was a good time, and Thin Lizzy made for a nice soundtrack.

Don Johnson, "Heartbeat"

Who is Don Johnson to think that a bunch of explosions are going to save a crappy song and a crappy music video?  A genius, that's who.

The Statler Brothers, "Flowers On The Wall"

From the Grand Ole Opry to "Pulp Fiction," this song is rad.

Gary Numan, "Cars"

Gary Numan is in his car and driving me crazy with this addictive tune.  Pun aside, this song really sticks in your head in a way that you need a tire iron to remove it.

Side note: This is exactly what I thought this music video would look like.

Hatsune Miku, "World Is Mine"

At some point it was inevitable that a lead singer would be a hologram and perform live in front of an audience armed with glow sticks.  I mean, she's no M.C. Skat Kat, but it is what it is.

Dance Like A Mother, "You Ain't So Tough"

First things first: A lady I've admired for a long time, who has been described as "one tough mother," was the victim of a home invasion robbery tonight.  Columbia Sportswear's Gert Boyle is okay (of course; she's tough!), but man--I was worried about her.  Here she is in one of my favorite Columbia commercials.

So here's an awesome video, which I'm sending out to the robber--who ain't as tough as Gert:

Eddie Murphy & Rick James, "Party All The Time"

This.  Actually.  Happened.

Technotronic, "Pump Up The Jam"

I'm dead serious when I say that I rock out to this today just as hard as I did when I was 12 years old.  I used to jam to this wearing Reebok Pumps--and it wasn't a coincidence.

Solomon Burke, "I Can't Stop Loving You"

I just read in Rolling Stone that Burke died in October.  Bummer.

Talking Heads, "Burning Down The House"

Sorry the staff at Justin's List didn't post anything last night.  We blame the elections for having been slothful.

That said, this one goes out to the Republicans, who claimed the US House of Representatives on Tuesday.  We're not really political here, so we'll leave it up to you whether that's a good thing or bad thing and how this song applies to that.  We're just looking for any excuse to play Talking Heads music.

Sleater-Kinney, "Jumpers"

I read a really interesting article in Willamette Week today about Carrie Brownstein, one of the members of Sleater-Kinney.  Really, it's probably most enjoyable to people who know Portland well--which you'll get within the first two paragraphs, about the ridiculously slow drivers around here.  But it's a good read all around.

Anyway, she was in this band, whose music I've never heard before.  And now I have.  And so shall you.

Gwen Stefani, "Hollaback Girl"

This is my favorite song to sing at karaoke, assuming the "KJ" will let me curse.  If not, I use "stuff" or "junk" instead of "sh*t."  Whatever the case, I'm helping drunk people all over town remember and/or learn how to spell the word 'banana'--and that's gotta count for something.

The Rascals, "Good Lovin'"

This is one of those songs that I'll only own if I ever become a wedding DJ.  It's like The Champs' "Tequila" or "Shout" by the Isley Brothers--I can only listen to it once every year or so, and I need to be kind of buzzed when I hear it so that I dance like I'm really into it.

Gladys Knight & The Pips, "If I Were Your Woman"

It kind of looks like those guys are dancing around Gladys Knight on a giant birthday cake.  Not a bad way to make a buck.

Vincent Price, "Monster Mash"

This song is like The Macarena: We've all danced to it at one point or another, and it wasn't pretty (case in point: Mannheim Steamroller's version).  Most of the folks in this version look like they just came from a snuff film.

Samantha Sang, "Emotion"

Samantha Sang's original "Emotion" video is still a Justin's List staff favorite--it's as satisfying as it is scary.  But this has a nice creepiness to it, too.  Enjoy.

The Doors, "Light My Fire"

Get yourself some popcorn... this damn thing is 10 minutes long.

Dead Man's Bones, "Name In Stone"

This is a nice song just in time for Halloween:

Baby Monkey (Going Backwards On A Pig), Parry Gripp

There's something satisfying in a very primal way about watching a monkey yearning to ride a pig (backwards).  And the song just takes it to a whole new level.

Kraftwerk, "Radioactivity"

Here's some old school synthpop.  I used to think my dad like these guys... uh, but now that I listen to it, I must have confused them with someone else.

The Smashing Pumpkins, "Zero"

You know, after 15 years, this is still a pretty catchy--and edgy--tune.

Michael Jackson, "I Wanna Be Where You Are"

Michael Jackson: The Justin Bieber of the '70s.

Train, "Hey, Soul Sister"

I'm not really a fan of this song, but any tune that references an '80s band like Mister Mister gets at least some street cred at Justin's List.

Also, is that Howie Mandel on the ukulele?

Astrud Gilberto, "Aqua De Beber"

I wish there was a '60s live version of this; it loses a little bit of its charm in this video.  But it's still a stellar song.

"PoP Goes My Heart" from "Music & Lyrics"

Admittedly, I've seen the movie "Music & Lyrics."  It wasn't horrible.  And perhaps the finest part is the very beginning, which is this faux music video--a well-done '80s parody from start to finish.

The Smiths, "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now"

Every Portland winter sneaks up on me.  I feel like I'm doing great through April, and then the bait-and-switch of faux summer in May and June kills my spirit.  Something tells me I might seek the wisdom of The Smiths in 2011.  I unfortunately don't know their music, despite the fact that they're one of the most critically acclaimed bands of the '80s.  But we'll see how this winter goes; maybe you'll start seeing much more of them on Justin's List that you ever really wanted.

Lee Fields & The Expressions, "Ladies"

This doesn't really look like a music video, but it's Fellini's "8 1/2," which is even better.  So between the movie and the song, I'm sure you'll enjoy something that this has to offer.

Soundgarden, "Fell On Black Days"

Once upon a time--say, around 15 years ago--the music that Daughtry sings was sung by other people, but it sounded good.

Kenny G & Michael Bolton, "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You"

Technically, both of these people are Michael Bolton; it's just a split screen, and the guy on the right is Michael playing a soprano saxophone and calling himself "Kenny G."  Just wanted to clear up any confusion.

Coldplay, "Billie Jean"

An acoustic version of "Billie Jean"?  Not bad.

Talkdemonic, "Mountain Cats"

Talkdemonic is a Portland band, whom I'm just now discovering.  It's like music you listen to when you're watching the clouds or getting drunk on a gloomy day.

Allison Williams, Mad Men Theme Song Mash-Up

This just in!  That lame attempt at a joke refers to the fact that Allison Williams is the daughter of NBC Nightly News anchor and all around awesome fella Brian Williams.  And here she is knocking out Nat King Cole's "Nature Boy" with the theme song of the show Mad Men.  All in one take.  That's the Williams way.

Tex Williams, "Smoke, Smoke, Smoke That Cigarette!"

You might recognize this as the opening song to the movie "Thank You For Smoking"--a good fit.  The speed and pace of this song remind me of Johnny Cash's "A Boy Named Sue," though I can't find any evidence that Cash was influenced by Williams' tune.  But they're both great songs, that so there's that.

Diana Ross, "Upside Down"

Now that you've heard this, you'll need an exorcism to get it out of you. The term "earworm" doesn't begin to explain the agonizing repetition by which this song will slowly rot your brains.

Jay-Z & Alicia Keys, "Empire State Of Mind"

I'm always a little annoyed by songs about New York City; it seems like everyone written has a song it.  Though, to be fair, this is a great one.

Seriously, though, why don't more people write about Tulsa or Duluth?  They deserve songs, too.

The Doors & Blondie, "Rapture Riders"

This is pretty crazy.  I saw this and was like "Whhaaaa!?" as if it was the first mash-up I had ever heard.  It's too bad Jim Morrison died in a French bathtub nine years before Blondie wrote "Rapture"; I think he would have enjoyed this.

Peter Bjorn & John, "Let's Call It Off"

Peter Bjorn & John's 2006 album "Writer's Block"--which includes this song--seems to get better as time goes on.  And I feel like their sound is still pretty fresh.  But they're Swedish, and Swedes always know how to keep it current.

The Pretenders, "Back On The Chain Gang"

Not to be a stick in the mud, but I've never really liked The Pretenders.  For instance, "Brass In Pocket" might be one of my least favorite songs of all time.  But I respect their talent, and they've got a few good tunes--like "Back On The Chain Gang":

Tired Pony, "Dead American Writers"

I'm thoroughly amused by how indignant this guy seems.  Or maybe he's bored?  Maybe he's tired (pony)? Whatever... he's mouthing at least 10% of the lyrics, and that's good enough.

Bread, "Baby I'm A Want You"

It occurred to me after yesterday's post that I haven't posted a Bread song since last summer--when I posted "Make It With You," as well as a tutorial on how not to make bread.  So here's some Bread to help you get your day started.  And don't be surprised if you need a Kleenex after listening to this song; it's the Bread way:

David Gates, "Goodbye Girl"

My wife and I watched Neil Simon's "The Goodbye Girl" last night.  It's pretty much like any other movie from the '70s that takes place in New York City, but Richard Dreyfuss (who earned an Oscar for the role) and Marsha Mason were both great, so there's that.  And then in the final credits, they whip this song out--sung by David Gates of the group Bread.  Because there's really no music video for this song, here's a version that someone posted on YouTube with clips from the movie, so enjoy:

Journey, "Separate Ways"

How can a band this huge in the '80s make a video this bad?  Perhaps I've answered my own question.

Dewey Cox as Bob Dylan in "Walk Hard"

There aren't many funny moments in "Walk Hard," but the funny moments are hilarious, and this is one of them. When I can actually understand what Bob Dylan is saying, most of it still doesn't make much sense.  "You guys are idiots... This song is very deep."  Awesome.

Amy Winehouse, "Rehab"

I decided a few weeks ago to avoid beer and alcohol.  I use the word "avoid," because in a town like Portland--one of the best microbrew cities in America--it seems like beer is everywhere, and it's always just waiting to be imbibed.  I figured staying dry for a month could help me lose a few pounds and save a few bucks.  I'll drink to that! *sigh*

Andy Gibb & Victoria Principal, "All I Have To Do Is Dream"

This video is so sappy sweet, I lost a leg to diabetes by the time the song was finished.

Christopher Cross, "Sailing"

Knowing that this week's "Glee" episode was dedicated to Britney Spears, it was especially funny that the teacher really wanted the kids to sing Christopher Cross songs.

As I've noted before, I'm not quite sure how Chris Cross ever really found stardom; in this video alone, he's wearing some sort of jersey and looks has hasn't shaved for a week.  It's as if he just finished playing Centipede and eating Cheez-Its in his grandma's basement, then barely dressed himself to show up and do this thing.  Not that Britney wouldn't do all of the above... she just looks better doing it.

The Flamingos, "I Only Have Eyes For You"

This is baby-makin' music right here.

The Sex Pistols, "God Save The Queen"

While I've got Punk Rock on the mind, I might as well squeeze in The Sex Pistols.  I love their letter to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, calling the institution a "piss stain."  I guess they probably won't get a mint on their pillows the next time they're in Cleveland.

The Clash, "White Riot"

I was working on a story at work about a riot in Eugene, Oregon--the home of the University of Oregon--and it reminded me of this song, which I hadn't heard in awhile.

Creedence Clearwater Revival, "Heard It Through The Grapevine"

Any video that begins in a frame and is covered with the word "Oldie" in cursive is destined to be awesome.

Roy Orbison, "Crying"

I get the sense that the audience showed for up lecture hall at the University of Memphis one Tuesday, and Roy Orbison and his band were there, and it was like "No class today, folks.  Just Roy Orbison."

I mean, look at the androgynous audience member at 2:01: Roy is spilling his guts out by way of an epic falsetto, and this kid is totally somewhere else.  You know what -- he'll get to "Pretty Woman" eventually.  Damn... try to enjoy yourself until then.  Pffft.

Billie Holiday & Louis Armstrong, "New Orleans"

This looks like a really fun time, at least between Billie & Louis.  That blonde lady looks like she's got something up her sleeve, but everyone else seems to be into the music.

OK Go, "White Knuckles"

OK Go always knows how to a make mesmerizing video, and this is their latest, which debuted on Monday.  It's got a Northwest connection, too, since it was filmed in Corvallis, Oregon.

Menomena, "Killemall"

Big props to the drummer for sporting a Blazers t-shirt--at least they love Portland, even if they might hate each other.

The Four Tops, "Standing In The Shadows Of Love"

I need to get back into Motown.  It's been too long.  Between hearing this song on the radio tonight and hearing Marvin Gaye's "Inner City Blues" at Starbucks (I wasn't lost on the irony), I really need to get back to the good stuff.

Mary Tyler Moore Theme Song

This is great on so many levels -- perhaps most incredibly the fact that it's a full minute long.  Can you imagine a full one minute intro these days?  Some TV shows aren't even that long...

The Kinks, "All Day And All Of The Night"

I think The Kinks are one of the most under-appreciated bands in the history of rock & roll.  Plus, this makes for a decent karaoke song.

Ratatat, "Loud Pipes"

Just a heads up: This isn't really a video; it's just the song, covered with some pics of this rad cougar or whatever it is.  And the lack of video is entirely apropos, given the fact that I was supposed to see these guys live tonight... but unforeseen circumstances prevented me from doing so. *sigh*

But I suppose sitting at home, getting drunk in my chair and watching "It's Always Sunny In Philadephia" is just as cool, right?

"Don't Know Much," Aaron Neville & Linda Ronstadt

I heard this song today--and I forgot how much I enjoyed it.  Or maybe I never enjoyed it, but I do now.  I don't mean this in any kind of sarcastic or ironic way: I am legitimately enjoying this song.

Though, having said that, I'm enjoying this video somewhat ironically.  

Oh, and for all my Spanish readers, you'll be happy to know that this has subtitles: "No se mucho, pero se que te amo, y eso tal vez sea todo lo que necesito saber."

"Badlands," Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band

I bought this LP (Darkness on the Edge of Town) a few weeks ago online, and it just showed up in the mail today.  Naturally, I've been listening to it non-stop.  I have the CD--but who needs CDs when you can listen to it on vinyl?

For me, this is the best Springsteen album--barely edging out Born to Run.  And in November, he's issuing a massive new edition of the album, with lots of new tracks and DVDs and all sorts of fun stuff.

Queen, "Another One Bites The Dust"

The Kansas City Chiefs had a miraculous win tonight over conference rival San Diego Chargers. I'm hoping it's a sign of good things to come, but the Chiefs have been so bad for so long, I don't want to get my hopes up too soon. But if nothing else, it was an enjoyable win.

Separate note: The first lyrics of this song are "Steve walks warily down the street with the brim pulled way down low"--perhaps the greatest first line of a song in classic rock.

"Simon Zealotes/Poor Jerusalem" from "Jesus Christ Superstar"

This is one of my favorite movies of all time--mostly because of how fantastically '70s it is.  I've already shared with you the clip from King Herod, which was supposed to be weird, but this clip is definitely one of most genuinely '70s moments.  The people fading in from nowhere, the freeze-frames in the dancing, the outfits--it's all good stuff.

And even after all that, Jesus is like, "That's cool, the outfits are rad.  But man, you don't get it.  If I'm gonna die for your sins, I'd better see some bellbottoms."

Something like that.  I'm not a biblical scholar, I'm just a guy who likes this movie.

The Postal Service, "Such Great Heights"

Unfortunately, I think this was used for a UPS ad.  But it's still a good song.

The Champs, "Tequila"

I would have loved to have been a backup singer in the studio on this song, then soaked up the royalties for the rest of my life.  I'll bet someone who legitimately says "I sang on the 'Tequila' song" never has to buy their own tequila.

The Cowsills, "The Rain, The Park & Other Things"

I was watching "Dumb & Dumber" the other day, and I forgot how awesome this song is during Jim Carrey's daydream sequence.

Chromeo, "Don't Turn The Lights On"

A friend turned me on to these guys--and I have to say, I'm not disappointed.  They're a refreshing throwback to the '80s.  I'm starting to feel like maybe '80s-type music is coming back, and I don't hate that.

Also, the keyboardist looks a little bit like Turtle from "Entourage."

Electric Light Orchestra, "Roll Over Beethoven"

ELO founding member and cellist Mike Edwards died last week after a strange accident in England.  Here's a video of the band playing one of their earliest hits, "Roll Over Beethoven" (a remake of the Chuck Berry song).  I think he's the cellist wearing the top hat.  Anyway, what a bummer... he seemed like a nice dude--and he could play his cello with fruit.  Crazy!

Jerry Lewis in "The Errand Boy"

I couldn't find any old Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon clips that I liked, so I decided to just give him a shoutout with this hilarious clip of comedic brilliance.

The Ting Tings, "Shut Up And Let Me Go"

More Second wave synthpop.  Don't judge me.  I'm exploring.

Phil Collins, "Long Long Way To Go"

Years ago, I bought the album "No Jacket Required" on vinyl, and I would listen to it over and over since I didn't own many other albums.  Of all the great songs on the album--and there are many--this is the one that I always enjoyed the most.  So I hope you enjoy it.  And if not, there's always "Sussudio."

Tears For Fears, "Sowing The Seeds Of Love"

Tears For Fears' Curt Smith was on the latest episode of "Psych," and it was pretty funny.  The show is rife with '80s references, which is fantastic--given how much I loved this video in 1989.

See, growing up in the Midwest and being a latchkey kid, sometimes it was too cold/boring/dangerous for me to wait down the street for my school bus forever.  So I would hang out after breakfast and watch over and over the handful of videos that MTV would show at that time of day.  "Sowing The Seeds Of Love" was one of those videos.  And then I would turn off the TV and run down and catch my bus.

So, there's 1989.  Honestly, not much has changed except that I'm too lazy to run to a bus.

Lenka, "The Show"

I don't mean to put a halt to the bubble gum sweetness of this video, but I'm pretty sure the guy on the bus and in the restaurant has a court order to stay 500 feet away from children at all times.

Also, random side note: Lenka is also an actress, and she was in one of my favorite movies of all time, "The Dish."

Vampire Weekend, "Giving Up The Gun"

This was the third concert in as many weeks that we've seen live on the lawn of McMenamin's Edgefield in Portland--and it was a nice way to wrap up the summer, even though it was raining and 60 degrees.

Sandie Shaw, "Un Tout Petit Pantin"

When people act like puppets, is it less creepy or more creepy when it's done in French?  You be the judge.

Skeeter Davis, "The End Of The World"

Sure, it's a decent song--but I'm excited that I get to feature someone on the blog named "Skeeter."

The Doobie Brothers, "Jesus Is Just Alright"

This is about the closest I come to going to church.

Chicago, "If You Leave Me Now"

With a room filled with so many vests and beards--as seen through a star pattern, the most advanced editing techniques known to 1977--who would ever want to leave?

Crowded House, "Don't Dream It's Over"

We saw these guys live last night--and they put on a pretty good show.  They don't look terribly different than they do here in 1987, receiving an MTV Music Award from Downtown Julie Brown.

"Tornado"? (Identity/Artist Unknown)

All this says--perhaps fittingly--is "tornado."  A real tornado, however, is less painful and goes away much more quickly.

Lit, "My Own Worst Enemy"

I don't know whether bowling in retro attire has anything to do with getting drunk, driving drunk, parking your car on your front lawn, crawling into your window, and falling asleep with your clothes on--all with little to no memory of any of these events--but it's definitely one of the few sports in which you can legitimately compete and still be intoxicated enough to do any of these things.

Passion Pit, "The Reeling"

So it turns out I've kind of gone batsh*t crazy for what Wikipedia calls "Second Wave synthpop" groups.  Phoenix, Keane, LCD Soundsystem--and Passion Pit, included here--are just a few of the bands that are tickling my iPod's fancy.

Coconut Records, "West Coast"

I really like Coconut Records, and that has nothing to do with the fact that the group is mostly Jason Schwartzman,who has starred in a lot of great movies (most of them, coincidentally, also with great soundtracks).

Bush, "Machinehead"

Anyone remember these guys?  It seemed like every one of the songs on this album (Sixteen Stone) was a huge hit--exactly two months apart from each other.  It went on for, like, two years.  Anyway, good album.

Also, fun note: the group Bush became popular between both Bush administrations.  So... there's that.

Wayne Newton, "Danke Schoen"

Knowing what Wayne Newton looks like now, it's crazy to see him this young.  I suspect he'll look this young again someday, thanks to the miracle of plastic surgery, so it's probably just a matter of time.  Guten Tag!

Anti-Mosque At Ground Zero Music Video

This thing is too ironically awesome to parody.  Despite its godawfulness, it's a fairly catchy tune, maybe even better than Dennis Madalone's "America: We Stand As One."

Lady Gaga, "Bad Romance"

I don't know what to make of any of this.  She's coming to Portland on Thursday, and I'm guessing she'll attract the most oddly-dressed people in town--so I'm curious about that.

Buck Owens & The Buckaroos, "Tiger By The Tail"

There's not nearly as much winking involved as when Buck sang "Act Naturally," so that's an improvement.  Eventually I'll find some clips of him and The Buckaroos that aren't set in a fake "Hee Haw" barn--or maybe I won't.  I kind of like what the barn has going on.

Neil Diamond, "Soolaimon"

I was hoping to find a live performance from Neil's "Hot August Night"--apropos, huh?  But that's not an easy task, so I got the next best thing: "Soolaimon."

Africa is warm this time of year, right?  A quick internet search shows that it's going to be in the 80s this week in Nairobi, Kenya--that's warm enough for this video to be relevant.  Soolaimon!

David Hasselhoff, "Hooked On A Feeling"

I just watched the roast of Hasselhoff on Comedy Central--a mostly entertaining scouring of everyone involved, including Lisa Lampanelli..."a carnival bear dressed in a pant suit," according to Jeffrey Ross (and I'm paraphrasing).

Anyway, this video is the 'Hoff to the core, so I'm happy to share it:

Charlie Daniels Band, "Devil Went Down To Georgia"

I wish there was more country music like this.  If Taylor Swift gains 200 pounds, grows a beard, and starts playing a mean fiddle--I might give her music a chance.

Martha & The Vandellas, "(Love Is Like A) Heat Wave"

It's getting into the mid-90s here in Portland... that's a normal summer for most people (and actually a cool breeze for some others), but here in the Pacific Northwest that's pretty toasty.  So I've consulted the catalog of Martha & The Vandellas--they're so hot, they're cool!  Or something.  I dunno... it's got the word "heat" in the title.

R. Stevie Moore, "I Like To Stay Home"

He likes to stay home?  Shocker.  I'm sure he stays busy there with his 27 cats.

And how about that drummer, with his various masks.  He must use the cats as his test audience.  "Chairman Meow, you like my elephant trunk mask, don't you?  Of course you do!  I'm going to drum with a spatula and put it on YouTube!"