Ivan’s Music Picks!

I like to think I’m a music buff of sorts, and there is nothing I love more than to “discover” new music, whether it be an old band or an up-and-coming sensation. The other thing I love to do is share music with people, because a lot of times they’d never hear about it otherwise. Well Chic Readers, today is the day that I will share some of my personal favorites with you!

Now some of you may have already heard of these songs, but perhaps there are a few among you who haven’t heard these songs…or bands, for that matter. So gather round and take notes! Mind you, I take my music very serious and I feel like I’m giving away my children here, so you better listen!

The first band I’d like to introduce is The Sundays. They were huge in the early 90s when the whole Dream Pop genre was in full swing, but they’ve since fallen into obscurity. Still, their music reigns supreme. Also, Harriet Wheeler’s vocals are so icy that it’s like no other voice I’ve heard to date. Their bigger hits were Here’s Where The Story Ends and Summertime, but I LOVE You’re Not the Only One I Know. The Sundays had an uncanny ability to churn out songs that were just delicious to listen to, and there is not one song that I’ve not liked. Truly amazing. Be sure to also check out Goodbye and I Feel.

The next song is Ugly Girl by Fleming & John. The song is about a scorned ex-girlfriend and her disbelief that she has been left for..well, an ugly girl. Might sound kind of mean but it is such a good track! Go onto iTunes and preview. I guarantee you’ll buy it.

Another amazing group is The Radio Dept. These boys hail from Sweden and they’re part of the shoegaze phenomenon. This band to me is one of those bands that would be part of the soundtrack of my life. The music is so smooth and ethereal that it can transport you to any memory, place or time. Everything from the guitars, the vocals, and the scratchy nuances on each track blend together to make this gorgeous sensory cocktail. I get a thrill when I blast them with all my windows down at night. The thirty-second clips on iTunes don’t do it justice, so go on YouTube and search for the album versions! Definite songs to listen to are Keen on Boys, I Don’t Like it Like This, Pulling Our Weight, and Where the Damage isn’t Already Done.

Finally, the last stop on our musical journey ends with something a little more upbeat. This band is not so obscure, but they’re still not mainstream. If you’re ever in your car on the way to a club or with your friends and in the mood to dance, MYLO is who you put on. His Destroy Rock & Roll album is a virtual club on its own. Super-catchy jams and beats that will get your body moving. Songs to listen to are In My Arms, Musclecars, Drop the Pressure, and Rikki.