Arcade Fire — Half Light II (No Celebration)
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Length: 4:20
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Now that San Francisco's gone, I guess I'll just pack it in
Wanna wash away my sins in the presence of my friends
You and I we head back East to find a town where we can live
Even in the half light, we can see that something's gotta give
When we watched the markets crash, the promises we made were torn
Then my parents sent for me from out West where I was born
Some people say they've already lost but they're afraid to pay the cost
For what we've lost, pay the cost for what we've lost
Now that you have left me here, I will never raise my voice
All the diamonds you have here in this home which has no life
Oh, this city's changed so much since I was a little child
Pray to God I won't live to see, the death of everything that's wild
Though we knew this day would come, still it took us by surprise
In this town where I was born I now see through a dead man's eyes
One day they will see it's long gone
One day they will see it's long gone
One day they will see it's long gone
One day they will see it's long gone
Wanna wash away my sins in the presence of my friends
You and I we head back East to find a town where we can live
Even in the half light, we can see that something's gotta give
When we watched the markets crash, the promises we made were torn
Then my parents sent for me from out West where I was born
Some people say they've already lost but they're afraid to pay the cost
For what we've lost, pay the cost for what we've lost
Now that you have left me here, I will never raise my voice
All the diamonds you have here in this home which has no life
Oh, this city's changed so much since I was a little child
Pray to God I won't live to see, the death of everything that's wild
Though we knew this day would come, still it took us by surprise
In this town where I was born I now see through a dead man's eyes
One day they will see it's long gone
One day they will see it's long gone
One day they will see it's long gone
One day they will see it's long gone
Comments (155)add comment
radioparadise9 wrote:
Which country do you inhabit? I'm glad we have smart people like you that know everything!
UPDATE: a year later (2020) and The USA is demonstrating that there is no bottom to their deeply racist failing society.
Are you tired of winning yet!
Covid is exposing the scam, Moscow's Man is MAGA
Not laughing with you, laughing at you.
Are you tired of winning yet!
Covid is exposing the scam, Moscow's Man is MAGA
Not laughing with you, laughing at you.
Which country do you inhabit? I'm glad we have smart people like you that know everything!
I like the soundwaves that are entering my ears and that's what matters to me. It's maybe an age thing.
idiot_wind wrote:
Although I suspect this is actually not the case, this suggestion is pretty funny!
My best guess, is that they have 9 synthesizers, each having only 3 keys.
Their drum kit: ooops, they don't have one.
Their singers: 10 of them, but only three are awake.
Their guitars: they pawned them for the synthesizers.
Their song writers: passed out.
Their drum kit: ooops, they don't have one.
Their singers: 10 of them, but only three are awake.
Their guitars: they pawned them for the synthesizers.
Their song writers: passed out.
Although I suspect this is actually not the case, this suggestion is pretty funny!
They're just... so... PRECIOUS.
aaronm wrote:
UPDATE: It's a year later, and things are still terrible
UPDATE: a year later (2020) and The USA is demonstrating that there is no bottom to their deeply racist failing society.
Are you tired of winning yet!
Covid is exposing the scam, Moscow's Man is MAGA
Not laughing with you, laughing at you.
UPDATE: It's a year later, and things are still terrible
UPDATE: a year later (2020) and The USA is demonstrating that there is no bottom to their deeply racist failing society.
Are you tired of winning yet!
Covid is exposing the scam, Moscow's Man is MAGA
Not laughing with you, laughing at you.
Good stuff!
More please.
More please.
headache, I'm so sorry
Grayson wrote:
Bill just did it again. LOL
What screams ART SCHOOL louder'n an Arcade Fire song?! Seems RP always provides the perfect balancing act by following up one of those with a Springsteen song. Whew.
Bill just did it again. LOL
idiot_wind wrote:
I saw them, for free luckily, and it's all very choregraphed and utterly lacking in any spontaneity or impulsive acts. Very sterile performance and boring to me.
My best guess, is that they have 9 synthesizers, each having only 3 keys.
Their drum kit: ooops, they don't have one.
Their singers: 10 of them, but only three are awake.
Their guitars: they pawned them for the synthesizers.
Their song writers: passed out.
Their drum kit: ooops, they don't have one.
Their singers: 10 of them, but only three are awake.
Their guitars: they pawned them for the synthesizers.
Their song writers: passed out.
I saw them, for free luckily, and it's all very choregraphed and utterly lacking in any spontaneity or impulsive acts. Very sterile performance and boring to me.
idiot_wind wrote:
If that was your best guess, I hope you never feel compelled to share your worst guess.
My best guess, is ...
If that was your best guess, I hope you never feel compelled to share your worst guess.
idiot_wind wrote:
Don't agree with your assessment but I love the humor with which you approach it.
My best guess, is that they have 9 synthesizers, each having only 3 keys.
Their drum kit: ooops, they don't have one.
Their singers: 10 of them, but only three are awake.
Their guitars: they pawned them for the synthesizers.
Their song writers: passed out.
Their drum kit: ooops, they don't have one.
Their singers: 10 of them, but only three are awake.
Their guitars: they pawned them for the synthesizers.
Their song writers: passed out.
Don't agree with your assessment but I love the humor with which you approach it.
What screams ART SCHOOL louder'n an Arcade Fire song?! Seems RP always provides the perfect balancing act by following up one of those with a Springsteen song. Whew.
aaronm wrote:
UPDATE: It's a year later, and things are still terrible
I see a lot of comments from right after last year's US presidential election about how this song really works for the moment. It did, but after the last month in the US (Harvey, Irma, wildfires in the northwest), it still feels just as relevant and cuts just as much for me, if not worse.
UPDATE: It's a year later, and things are still terrible
My best guess, is that they have 9 synthesizers, each having only 3 keys.
Their drum kit: ooops, they don't have one.
Their singers: 10 of them, but only three are awake.
Their guitars: they pawned them for the synthesizers.
Their song writers: passed out.
Their drum kit: ooops, they don't have one.
Their singers: 10 of them, but only three are awake.
Their guitars: they pawned them for the synthesizers.
Their song writers: passed out.
Like a proper meal, this music has the depth of flavor. Like these guys more and more.
I see a lot of comments from right after last year's US presidential election about how this song really works for the moment. It did, but after the last month in the US (Harvey, Irma, wildfires in the northwest), it still feels just as relevant and cuts just as much for me, if not worse.
Devastated. This song is perfect for the day.
I see we have a very appropriate theme going today. I'm in a horrible mood so it certainly fits. This country is nuts.
I thought the same about Arcade Fire at first. It helps to listen to the whole album in context, especially this one, which is a concept album. It took me awhile to hear the x-factor "hooks", but I think that's because their style challenged my expectations so much that my ears needed time to adapt. That poor production is actually the sound they're shooting for, I think.
As for the comments about attack mode and flocks of sheep people ("sheople"?), we're all still struggling to learn the difference between "I don't care for this, and here's why" and "This sucks, they are overrated, this isn't even music" etc. I think there's a part of us that actually wants to fight, otherwise we wouldn't do things this way. We can be such nasty monkeys...
ScottN wrote:
As for the comments about attack mode and flocks of sheep people ("sheople"?), we're all still struggling to learn the difference between "I don't care for this, and here's why" and "This sucks, they are overrated, this isn't even music" etc. I think there's a part of us that actually wants to fight, otherwise we wouldn't do things this way. We can be such nasty monkeys...
ScottN wrote:
Very interesting. First time I've heard it. Seems to be missing some x factor...then it would be great. May be as simple as the poor production?
Hey nick,
You got it right. This band is way over-rated. Their music is muted, boring, no hooks.
And they have about a dozen people in the band...I don't know what they do.
You got it right. This band is way over-rated. Their music is muted, boring, no hooks.
And they have about a dozen people in the band...I don't know what they do.
nicknt wrote:
Whoooa there,,,I think you are overstepping there....I think that Tiny Tim and his band holds that title. He could really rock a Uke thogh
One of the most overrated bands of all time.
Whoooa there,,,I think you are overstepping there....I think that Tiny Tim and his band holds that title. He could really rock a Uke thogh
One of the most overrated bands of all time.
ScottN wrote:
"x-factor"? ew
Very interesting. First time I've heard it. Seems to be missing some x factor...then it would be great. May be as simple as the poor production?
"x-factor"? ew
Very interesting. First time I've heard it. Seems to be missing some x factor...then it would be great. May be as simple as the poor production?
ccjemmett wrote:
to a flock of sheep individuality is all but impossible. if peer group says "attack mode. band uncool." - sheep follows.
Always amusing when the hoard decides to attack a song or a band.
One thing to not like a song but attack mode is kinda silly.
One thing to not like a song but attack mode is kinda silly.
to a flock of sheep individuality is all but impossible. if peer group says "attack mode. band uncool." - sheep follows.
Always amusing when the hoard decides to attack a song or a band.
One thing to not like a song but attack mode is kinda silly.
One thing to not like a song but attack mode is kinda silly.
I liked this song when this album came out. It's wearing thin on me now.
ottovonb wrote:
Why would someone pay a computer?
The "drummer" actually got paid for this bit of work?
Why would someone pay a computer?
In addition to being mediocre music, the production is horrible.
These guys just don't do it for me.
Enough 80s sound already! Come on, Bill - give us a break!
The "drummer" actually got paid for this bit of work?
ottovonb wrote:
Getting hit by a banjo really hurts!
I'm dreaming of a UFC style celebrity cage match between Mumford & Sons vs. Arcade Fire where neither shows the other any mercy.
Getting hit by a banjo really hurts!
Think I could get to like this one if it didn't sound like somebody kicked all of their speakers out.
The whole CD, despite the blathering stupidity of its commentary, has really sprawled on me...9
I can't place my finger on it but all AF songs have a consistent thread that makes one song sound like much the next. Plus, they remind me of my Canadian ex and make me sad...
Play more Tragically Hip!!!
Play more Tragically Hip!!!
Ag3nt0rang3 wrote:
Um, maybe not. The "liberal" position in the US is roughly equivalent to the centre-right or right position in many other modern democracies. Certainly there isn't much to distinguish Obama's platform from, say, Stephen Harper's in Canada (Conservative), and the same may hold true in Britain as well.
So, what you are admitting to is that you are a bunch of friggin' idiot ideologues? OK, I can dig.
In case you missed, here is my first ever re-posting of my own comment:
"blah blah the world's going to hell in a handbasket blah blah blah suburbs blah blah sprawl blah blah consumerism blah blah climate change blah blah American Imperialism blah blah blah. -Lyrics by Westslope"
Um, maybe not. The "liberal" position in the US is roughly equivalent to the centre-right or right position in many other modern democracies. Certainly there isn't much to distinguish Obama's platform from, say, Stephen Harper's in Canada (Conservative), and the same may hold true in Britain as well.
So, what you are admitting to is that you are a bunch of friggin' idiot ideologues? OK, I can dig.
In case you missed, here is my first ever re-posting of my own comment:
"blah blah the world's going to hell in a handbasket blah blah blah suburbs blah blah sprawl blah blah consumerism blah blah climate change blah blah American Imperialism blah blah blah. -Lyrics by Westslope"
Photo-John wrote:
..or Coltrane..
..more like early Echo..
Does not sound like Slayer.
..or Coltrane..
..more like early Echo..
I love this album, but it was just terribly produced. All the songs are so relentlessly loud, and needlessly so! It's like they just decided to turn all the instruments up to 11 in mastering, and then compress it down so it didn't clip. Barely. Just terrible. Ends up sounding really flat, with no range. The whole damn album. It really irks me because the music itself is so good!
Anything from The Suburbs is great, including this tune!
I'm dreaming of a UFC style celebrity cage match between Mumford & Sons vs. Arcade Fire where neither shows the other any mercy.
rdo wrote:
I am i liberal, so it is kinda joke for u to call me rightwing, dont ya think???
Um, maybe not. The "liberal" position in the US is roughly equivalent to the centre-right or right position in many other modern democracies. Certainly there isn't much to distinguish Obama's platform from, say, Stephen Harper's in Canada (Conservative), and the same may hold true in Britain as well.
I am i liberal, so it is kinda joke for u to call me rightwing, dont ya think???
Um, maybe not. The "liberal" position in the US is roughly equivalent to the centre-right or right position in many other modern democracies. Certainly there isn't much to distinguish Obama's platform from, say, Stephen Harper's in Canada (Conservative), and the same may hold true in Britain as well.
We were around 100000 in 2011 at their free show in downtown Montreal, so I guess I'm not the only one to love this band. Then again a lot of people can be wrong, but still, this is great band and so is this tune. Karkwa, a french canadian group opened the show that night, they should also get some airplay on RP. I guess i'll have to upload some of their stuff.
fredriley wrote:
Gee, thanks for the namecheck, guy. I'm sure you're cool with rightwing propaganda, though. Remember: one person's intelligent commentary is another's propaganda - it all depends where you sit.
Arcade Fire songs have a lot of political and social commentary, so they will naturally and rightly generate sharp comments from right, left and centre. You're no doubt big on free speech so you should welcome this, and the cut and thrust of political argument where it's relevant. If mine or Byronape's or Joe Soap's comments annoy you, argue back. You're a big boy, now.
I am i liberal, so it is kinda joke for u to call me rightwing, dont ya think???
Gee, thanks for the namecheck, guy. I'm sure you're cool with rightwing propaganda, though. Remember: one person's intelligent commentary is another's propaganda - it all depends where you sit.
Arcade Fire songs have a lot of political and social commentary, so they will naturally and rightly generate sharp comments from right, left and centre. You're no doubt big on free speech so you should welcome this, and the cut and thrust of political argument where it's relevant. If mine or Byronape's or Joe Soap's comments annoy you, argue back. You're a big boy, now.
I am i liberal, so it is kinda joke for u to call me rightwing, dont ya think???
kingart wrote:
If it came down to contribution and value to Radio Paradise, I'm sad to inform you that kingart would receive a temporary suspension long before the music of Arcade Fire did.
Seems we might need a temporary suspension of Arcade Fire from RP. Too much of an OK thing... PTL for the PSD.
If it came down to contribution and value to Radio Paradise, I'm sad to inform you that kingart would receive a temporary suspension long before the music of Arcade Fire did.
did not like it—-loud noise——didn't seem to be doing or saying enough to say it loud
Reminds me of Gary Numan's Cars. I must be old
this got bumped to a 7.
I've changed my mind. I've underestimated Arcade Fire. This song isn't the least bit "2-marginal". It's definitely "3-HoHum."
Is this song a cover ?
It sounds a lot like a Rami Fortis song from ~1988 (which may have been a cover itself)
It sounds a lot like a Rami Fortis song from ~1988 (which may have been a cover itself)
Seems we might need a temporary suspension of Arcade Fire from RP. Too much of an OK thing... PTL for the PSD.
Dig this
rdo wrote:
Gee, thanks for the namecheck, guy. I'm sure you're cool with rightwing propaganda, though. Remember: one person's intelligent commentary is another's propaganda - it all depends where you sit.
Arcade Fire songs have a lot of political and social commentary, so they will naturally and rightly generate sharp comments from right, left and centre. You're no doubt big on free speech so you should welcome this, and the cut and thrust of political argument where it's relevant. If mine or Byronape's or Joe Soap's comments annoy you, argue back. You're a big boy, now.
Byronape: I was not really directing that at you, more at the banality of what passes as social criticism in other songs from this band (I gave this one an 8, and I love this group). I am all for this type of criticism. I spend most of my free time reading criticism of society of some sort or other. There is a big difference between intelligent social commentary and the insipid, chauvinistic, left-wing propaganda of the type you know who dispenses here on a regular basis.
Gee, thanks for the namecheck, guy. I'm sure you're cool with rightwing propaganda, though. Remember: one person's intelligent commentary is another's propaganda - it all depends where you sit.
Arcade Fire songs have a lot of political and social commentary, so they will naturally and rightly generate sharp comments from right, left and centre. You're no doubt big on free speech so you should welcome this, and the cut and thrust of political argument where it's relevant. If mine or Byronape's or Joe Soap's comments annoy you, argue back. You're a big boy, now.
With Arcade Fire in general and this album in particular, it really helps to play more than one song at a time. They flow together well; they don't seem to work nearly as well as singles. Not sure what that implies about the quality, but there you go.
This is the song that finally made me an Arcade Fire fan.
Wonderful! Agree about needing to experience the entire album- I also agree it's not immediately accessible, but for me at least, this band definitely pays off... Great lyrics on this album...
don't know if it's the rythem or singin or both together, but something here reminds me of a slower ball&chain-social distortion...............
my new favorite band... thanks to Radio Paradise♥I saw these guys in Chicago a few years back. They are all very talented multi-instrumentalists. They are able to turn a groove into a decent song like no one else. And like much of the newer RP fare, the more you hear, the more you like. I would rate Arcade Fire as one of the best bands out there.
horstman wrote:
Wow! Westslope doesn't even post on this song and you're crapping on him. Take it like a man and post on the Porcupine Tree Song comments.
And he's right about alot of the consumerism, imperialistic US attitudes, but being from Canada he doesn't have a right to express himself?
He does. And so do I. And no, he is not right, not in my opinion.
Byronape: I was not really directing that at you, more at the banality of what passes as social criticism in other songs from this band (I gave this one an 8, and I love this group). I am all for this type of criticism. I spend most of my free time reading criticism of society of some sort or other. There is a big difference between intelligent social commentary and the insipid, chauvinistic, left-wing propaganda of the type you know who dispenses here on a regular basis. I personally would rather not have to open a page and see someone take cheap shots at my country of origin. BTW one of my top 10 favorite bands is from Canada and is virulently anti-American (GYBE). I think it is OK to call these bands into question for their views and lyrics. Isn't that a valid form of social commentary? Isn't commenting on a particularly nasty commenter valid commentary? He should man up. Also, I don't think I should have to write out an entire essay every time.
Wow! Westslope doesn't even post on this song and you're crapping on him. Take it like a man and post on the Porcupine Tree Song comments.
And he's right about alot of the consumerism, imperialistic US attitudes, but being from Canada he doesn't have a right to express himself?
He does. And so do I. And no, he is not right, not in my opinion.
Byronape: I was not really directing that at you, more at the banality of what passes as social criticism in other songs from this band (I gave this one an 8, and I love this group). I am all for this type of criticism. I spend most of my free time reading criticism of society of some sort or other. There is a big difference between intelligent social commentary and the insipid, chauvinistic, left-wing propaganda of the type you know who dispenses here on a regular basis. I personally would rather not have to open a page and see someone take cheap shots at my country of origin. BTW one of my top 10 favorite bands is from Canada and is virulently anti-American (GYBE). I think it is OK to call these bands into question for their views and lyrics. Isn't that a valid form of social commentary? Isn't commenting on a particularly nasty commenter valid commentary? He should man up. Also, I don't think I should have to write out an entire essay every time.
This is one of my favorite albums of all time! It is a concept album and to get the full effect you have to listen to the whole thing. I can't get enough of it. It's brilliant! They encompass the entire spectrum of what makes up rock and roll in one album and the changes are amazing.
Liking these guys more and more...
Been trying, but I just don't like this band. They kind of annoy me.
MiracleDrug wrote:
1. Grateful Dead - the most aptly named band in the history of music.
2. The Beatles - we'd still be listening to the likes of Pat Boone and Lawrence Welk (or Elvis) without them.
3. Bob Dylan - can write, can't sing.
4. Velvet Underground - fun and not to be taken too seriously.
5. Arcade Fire - more dense than some of their contemporaries, but certainly musically adequate.
Middle class in America - currently being TAXED to death, about to be changing all that.
jeepers MiracleDrug,
you certainly did mrwhatever in...I'm with you
1. Grateful Dead - the most aptly named band in the history of music.
2. The Beatles - we'd still be listening to the likes of Pat Boone and Lawrence Welk (or Elvis) without them.
3. Bob Dylan - can write, can't sing.
4. Velvet Underground - fun and not to be taken too seriously.
5. Arcade Fire - more dense than some of their contemporaries, but certainly musically adequate.
Middle class in America - currently being TAXED to death, about to be changing all that.
jeepers MiracleDrug,
you certainly did mrwhatever in...I'm with you
mvanderford60 wrote:
1. Grateful Dead - the most aptly named band in the history of music.
2. The Beatles - we'd still be listening to the likes of Pat Boone and Lawrence Welk (or Elvis) without them.
3. Bob Dylan - can write, can't sing.
4. Velvet Underground - fun and not to be taken too seriously.
5. Arcade Fire - more dense than some of their contemporaries, but certainly musically adequate.
Middle class in America - currently being TAXED to death, about to be changing all that.
Lots of times great is not very good — its kind of a paradox. Grateful Dead - the best and worst band in history simultaneously. The Beatles - simplistic, mediocre musicians at best, largely un-listenable without George Martin but somehow humans can't get enough. Bob Dylan - seriously, have you ever seen him live (ack ack)? Velvet Underground - garage band without the garage.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
1. Grateful Dead - the most aptly named band in the history of music.
2. The Beatles - we'd still be listening to the likes of Pat Boone and Lawrence Welk (or Elvis) without them.
3. Bob Dylan - can write, can't sing.
4. Velvet Underground - fun and not to be taken too seriously.
5. Arcade Fire - more dense than some of their contemporaries, but certainly musically adequate.
Middle class in America - currently being TAXED to death, about to be changing all that.
Sorry, folks, but Arcade Fire just creeps me out. Weird, creepy, peculiar. No. Not good.
mvanderford60 wrote:
Damn. I usually say that everyone's got a right to voice their opinion, but for you I'll make an exception.
Lots of times great is not very good — its kind of a paradox. Grateful Dead - the best and worst band in history simultaneously. The Beatles - simplistic, mediocre musicians at best, largely un-listenable without George Martin but somehow humans can't get enough. Bob Dylan - seriously, have you ever seen him live (ack ack)? Velvet Underground - garage band without the garage.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
Damn. I usually say that everyone's got a right to voice their opinion, but for you I'll make an exception.
Does not sound like Slayer.
rdo wrote:
blah blah the world's going to hell in a handbasket blah blah blah suburbs blah blah sprawl blah blah consumerism blah blah climate change blah blah American Imperialism blah blah blah.
-Lyrics by Westslope
Wow! Westslope doesn't even post on this song and you're crapping on him. Take it like a man and post on the Porcupine Tree Song comments.
And he's right about alot of the consumerism, imperialistic US attitudes, but being from Canada he doesn't have a right to express himself?
blah blah the world's going to hell in a handbasket blah blah blah suburbs blah blah sprawl blah blah consumerism blah blah climate change blah blah American Imperialism blah blah blah.
-Lyrics by Westslope
Wow! Westslope doesn't even post on this song and you're crapping on him. Take it like a man and post on the Porcupine Tree Song comments.
And he's right about alot of the consumerism, imperialistic US attitudes, but being from Canada he doesn't have a right to express himself?
rdo wrote:
blah blah the world's going to hell in a handbasket blah blah blah suburbs blah blah sprawl blah blah consumerism blah blah climate change blah blah American Imperialism blah blah blah.
-Lyrics by Westslope
Wow, way to add to the conversation.
The only thing presented here is either complete apathy or a sign that you have something to gain by the current situations that US finds itself in.
blah blah the world's going to hell in a handbasket blah blah blah suburbs blah blah sprawl blah blah consumerism blah blah climate change blah blah American Imperialism blah blah blah.
-Lyrics by Westslope
Wow, way to add to the conversation.
The only thing presented here is either complete apathy or a sign that you have something to gain by the current situations that US finds itself in.
Byronape wrote:
You can mock the singer, the music, and the audience all you want. But if you are not willing to pay attention to the CONTENT of the song, then you have no right to be speaking on it. Even artists that I don't care for (ie, Springsteen) can make valid social commentary.
Hell, Lady Ga Ga's Born this way is a terrible song, but at least I can agree with the content.
blah blah the world's going to hell in a handbasket blah blah blah suburbs blah blah sprawl blah blah consumerism blah blah climate change blah blah American Imperialism blah blah blah.
-Lyrics by Westslope
You can mock the singer, the music, and the audience all you want. But if you are not willing to pay attention to the CONTENT of the song, then you have no right to be speaking on it. Even artists that I don't care for (ie, Springsteen) can make valid social commentary.
Hell, Lady Ga Ga's Born this way is a terrible song, but at least I can agree with the content.
blah blah the world's going to hell in a handbasket blah blah blah suburbs blah blah sprawl blah blah consumerism blah blah climate change blah blah American Imperialism blah blah blah.
-Lyrics by Westslope
their sound is too muddy
don't know how to feel about these guys/girls... going to see them live (without a ton of prior knowledge of their work) in a few weeks and I think that will be the real test. Goes without saying that this makes this upcoming show the biggest of their career
I would consider this one garbage though upon first listen
I would consider this one garbage though upon first listen
hencini wrote:
I am with you: I wasn't impressed by their earlier work, but the songs on this album are quickly growing on me.
Man, I didn't think much of these guys at first, but the more I hear from them, the more impressed I am.
I am with you: I wasn't impressed by their earlier work, but the songs on this album are quickly growing on me.
Man, I didn't think much of these guys at first, but the more I hear from them, the more impressed I am.
Saw Arcade Fire at Bonnaroo a couple of weekends ago. Fantastic.
mvanderford60 wrote:
... it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
floydoftherocks wrote:...a collection of white, upper-middle class suburbanites trying to be something they're not.. something that doesn't even exist. ;)
Thanks guys! Great training for my trip to Portland later this month. I'm beginning to tune out the overt poli-speak already. You say subvert the dominant paradigm, I say that sandwich looks great, let's have a beer !I really am glad that's over.
sirdroseph wrote:
For banal, shallow teenage girls maybe.
You can mock the singer, the music, and the audience all you want. But if you are not willing to pay attention to the CONTENT of the song, then you have no right to be speaking on it. Even artists that I don't care for (ie, Springsteen) can make valid social commentary.
Hell, Lady Ga Ga's Born this way is a terrible song, but at least I can agree with the content.
For banal, shallow teenage girls maybe.
You can mock the singer, the music, and the audience all you want. But if you are not willing to pay attention to the CONTENT of the song, then you have no right to be speaking on it. Even artists that I don't care for (ie, Springsteen) can make valid social commentary.
Hell, Lady Ga Ga's Born this way is a terrible song, but at least I can agree with the content.
Suburbs Best Album 2010 You better believe it!!
mvanderford60 wrote:
For banal, shallow teenage girls maybe.
Lots of times great is not very good — its kind of a paradox. Grateful Dead - the best and worst band in history simultaneously. The Beatles - simplistic, mediocre musicians at best, largely un-listenable without George Martin but somehow humans can't get enough. Bob Dylan - seriously, have you ever seen him live (ack ack)? Velvet Underground - garage band without the garage.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
For banal, shallow teenage girls maybe.
I heard Arcade Fire playing on the Gold's Gym music video channel at the gym. Congratulations, they have completely gone over to Justin Bieber, Nickelback and Lady Ga Ga territory, the transformation is complete, they are home where they belong.
Gonna see them live here in Dallas tonight...looking forward to it!
mvanderford60 wrote:
If you can't say anything nice... I'm going to shut up now.
(Wanna insult Jesus, the founding fathers, and the 1968 Shelby Cobra while you are at it?)
Lots of times great is not very good — its kind of a paradox. Grateful Dead - the best and worst band in history simultaneously. The Beatles - simplistic, mediocre musicians at best, largely un-listenable without George Martin but somehow humans can't get enough. Bob Dylan - seriously, have you ever seen him live (ack ack)? Velvet Underground - garage band without the garage.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
If you can't say anything nice... I'm going to shut up now.
(Wanna insult Jesus, the founding fathers, and the 1968 Shelby Cobra while you are at it?)
mvanderford60 wrote:
To call The Beatles "simplistic, mediocre musicians" is just a bizarre assertion unless your point is that, like, Ringo can't hold a candle to Buddy Rich; John can't sing as well as Domingo; George can't play as well as Django Reinhardt etc. If those are your baselines for "talent" you're not going to get much out of rock and roll. It's not a paradox, it's just that rock is more about a feel than technical prowess. Dylan doesn't owe an apology for the quality or lack thereof of his live show (which can actually be good - he's got a hell of a band).
The musicians in Arcade Fire are quite a bit above average and, like any great band, what they might lack in technique is made up for by how they are greater than the sum of their parts. (U2 might be the best example of this) I'm not sure if the rest of your comment is a compliment or not (I think it is!) but, yeah, this is a fine album that was a stunningly wonderful pick for Album of the Year (to the extent the Grammys matter...)
Lots of times great is not very good — its kind of a paradox. Grateful Dead - the best and worst band in history simultaneously. The Beatles - simplistic, mediocre musicians at best, largely un-listenable without George Martin but somehow humans can't get enough. Bob Dylan - seriously, have you ever seen him live (ack ack)? Velvet Underground - garage band without the garage.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
To call The Beatles "simplistic, mediocre musicians" is just a bizarre assertion unless your point is that, like, Ringo can't hold a candle to Buddy Rich; John can't sing as well as Domingo; George can't play as well as Django Reinhardt etc. If those are your baselines for "talent" you're not going to get much out of rock and roll. It's not a paradox, it's just that rock is more about a feel than technical prowess. Dylan doesn't owe an apology for the quality or lack thereof of his live show (which can actually be good - he's got a hell of a band).
The musicians in Arcade Fire are quite a bit above average and, like any great band, what they might lack in technique is made up for by how they are greater than the sum of their parts. (U2 might be the best example of this) I'm not sure if the rest of your comment is a compliment or not (I think it is!) but, yeah, this is a fine album that was a stunningly wonderful pick for Album of the Year (to the extent the Grammys matter...)
Lots of times great is not very good — its kind of a paradox. Grateful Dead - the best and worst band in history simultaneously. The Beatles - simplistic, mediocre musicians at best, largely un-listenable without George Martin but somehow humans can't get enough. Bob Dylan - seriously, have you ever seen him live (ack ack)? Velvet Underground - garage band without the garage.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
Arcade Fire - similar, not amazing musicians, but an extremely important contribution socially and spiritually— it is the funeral march for the death of the middle class in America - take notice.
floydoftherocks wrote:
What does living in San Francisco have to do with anything? He's from Texas and she's French-Canadian and they are currently living in Montreal I think. You could have taken San Francisco out and inserted pretty much any city and the "story" of the song wouldn't have changed at all. I don't care for Texas (not to offend any Texans, I just hate hot weather) but I don't trash songs just because they mention the state.
It's easy to spot younger musicians who've never lived in San Fran...just listen for the namecheck (Starsailor also comes to mind). They act like it's some sort of cool place when really it's just a collection of white, upper-middle class suburbanites trying to be something they're not.. something that doesn't even exist. ;)
What does living in San Francisco have to do with anything? He's from Texas and she's French-Canadian and they are currently living in Montreal I think. You could have taken San Francisco out and inserted pretty much any city and the "story" of the song wouldn't have changed at all. I don't care for Texas (not to offend any Texans, I just hate hot weather) but I don't trash songs just because they mention the state.
floydoftherocks wrote:
It's easy to spot younger musicians who've never lived in San Fran...just listen for the namecheck (Starsailor also comes to mind). They act like it's some sort of cool place when really it's just a collection of white, upper-middle class suburbanites trying to be something they're not.. something that doesn't even exist. ;)
Frisco snob
It's easy to spot younger musicians who've never lived in San Fran...just listen for the namecheck (Starsailor also comes to mind). They act like it's some sort of cool place when really it's just a collection of white, upper-middle class suburbanites trying to be something they're not.. something that doesn't even exist. ;)
Frisco snob
This one is starting to grow on me.
fingerpin wrote:
Yeah they do really suck balls, don't they?
It's easy to spot younger musicians who've never lived in San Fran...just listen for the namecheck (Starsailor also comes to mind). They act like it's some sort of cool place when really it's just a collection of white, upper-middle class suburbanites trying to be something they're not.. something that doesn't even exist. ;)
Same song, different day. 8 
6. I keep doing this with these guys. Back and forth. 
6. I keep doing this with these guys. Back and forth. Yeah they do really suck balls, don't they?
It's easy to spot younger musicians who've never lived in San Fran...just listen for the namecheck (Starsailor also comes to mind). They act like it's some sort of cool place when really it's just a collection of white, upper-middle class suburbanites trying to be something they're not.. something that doesn't even exist. ;)
Same song, different day. 8 6. I keep doing this with these guys. Back and forth.
6. I keep doing this with these guys. Back and forth. ick wrote: I lost my net connection after the first 3 notes and got it back just in time to have missed this. Maybe there is a god/tooth fairy/sasquatch after all? |
Gawd I wish the same would have happened to me. I couldn't rush across the room fast enough to hit mute. I can't stand this trash from the most overrated band in the modern area. A solid 1.
No, no: The Killers. Masters of suckitude. Well and truly "the most overrated band in the modern era."
Please make it stop.This is horrible
fingerpin wrote:
...it's not just you; eddie and the cruisers, too...
I swear I hear Bruce.
...it's not just you; eddie and the cruisers, too...
Meh.
grungepuppy wrote:
Gawd I wish the same would have happened to me. I couldn't rush across the room fast enough to hit mute. I can't stand this trash from the most overrated band in the modern area. A solid 1.
Good ear, though they have a lot of competition lately!
Gawd I wish the same would have happened to me. I couldn't rush across the room fast enough to hit mute. I can't stand this trash from the most overrated band in the modern area. A solid 1.
Good ear, though they have a lot of competition lately!
SweTex wrote:
I beg to differ.
Not a good sign when the more and more you hear, the less and less you like. I stand by they are not very good, IMO of course, but it as least a qualified opinion; God knows I have heard enough of them!
I beg to differ.
Not a good sign when the more and more you hear, the less and less you like. I stand by they are not very good, IMO of course, but it as least a qualified opinion; God knows I have heard enough of them!
sirdroseph wrote:
No, no I assure you it is just hype cause they are not darn good.
I beg to differ.
No, no I assure you it is just hype cause they are not darn good.
I beg to differ.
TMBDORPS makes me rate this 8 in sheer relief?
See Arcade Fire live!!! They were awesome at Merriweather Post Pavilion during their Summer of 2010 tour.
On_The_Beach wrote:
Me2. (Is it a her or a him?)
(There's more than one vocalist, but the main one is a him, and the backing (and occasional lead) is a her.)
Me2. (Is it a her or a him?)
(There's more than one vocalist, but the main one is a him, and the backing (and occasional lead) is a her.)
ick wrote:
Gawd I wish the same would have happened to me. I couldn't rush across the room fast enough to hit mute. I can't stand this trash from the most overrated band in the modern area. A solid 1.
I lost my net connection after the first 3 notes and got it back just in time to have missed this. Maybe there is a god/tooth fairy/sasquatch after all?
Gawd I wish the same would have happened to me. I couldn't rush across the room fast enough to hit mute. I can't stand this trash from the most overrated band in the modern area. A solid 1.
newbolddrive wrote:
Me2. (Is it a her or a him?)
I too don't get the hype about these guys. I find her voice grating.
Me2. (Is it a her or a him?)
I lost my net connection after the first 3 notes and got it back just in time to have missed this. Maybe there is a god/tooth fairy/sasquatch after all?
Best "new" band of the last decade - outstanding, unique, and very artistic songs that still hit me in da soul!
Spooky low bass on this one. 9
SweTex wrote:
You sure it's a "hype"? Maybe they're just that darn good.
No, no I assure you it is just hype cause they are not darn good.
You sure it's a "hype"? Maybe they're just that darn good.
No, no I assure you it is just hype cause they are not darn good.
coy wrote:
i'm pretty sure that's a 63 buick
kidding me, the curve on the head rests has classic Merc all over it
i'm pretty sure that's a 63 buick
kidding me, the curve on the head rests has classic Merc all over it
I swear I hear Bruce.
I too don't get the hype about these guys. I find her voice grating.
Bad Puppy, s_it, stay...
Fantastic live last Nov. in Barcelona , Palau Sant Jordi .
grungepuppy wrote:
I wasn't crazy about their first 2 albums but I love this one. Go figure. I think the hype is justified for this album...one of the best of 2010 imo.
God I can't stand this song. I'll never get the hype about this band. I've never liked anything I've heard from them.
I wasn't crazy about their first 2 albums but I love this one. Go figure. I think the hype is justified for this album...one of the best of 2010 imo.
1wolfy wrote:
i'm pretty sure that's a 63 buick
Maybe not..I see it as a 1980s model BMW 528E, but on second look you may be right..the wipers don't look BMW lsfeder wrote:
Anyone else notice the W116 Mercedes S class on the album cover? Awesome ride.
i'm pretty sure that's a 63 buick
grungepuppy wrote:
You sure it's a "hype"? Maybe they're just that darn good.
God I can't stand this song. I'll never get the hype about this band. I've never liked anything I've heard from them.
You sure it's a "hype"? Maybe they're just that darn good.
God I can't stand this song. I'll never get the hype about this band. I've never liked anything I've heard from them.
Hmm ... 7? 8? Somewhere in between. Good Canadian kids, anyway; workin' their butts off, lovin' what they do, and the naysayers be damned.
Trunk shape, headrests, wipers....definitely Mercedes.