Some of the American Idols Released Music Videos

Naturally the winner and runner up released music videos for their singles. I get that, because their singles are popular I guess (I heard "I Love You This Big" on the radio the other day and asked for it to be turned off, please). Anywhoo, Scotty da Body, Flute Extraordinaire and Lauren Alaina with her Sister/Mom made some musical videos. Woo hoo. Then my personal favorite, Miss Perfect Pia has a video for her new single. Does anybody still like her?

Here's the videos...
Pia Toscano's "This Time"

So there's that... I'm not sure if she (or to be correct the person who wrote the song) understands correct grammar. "My bags is packed at the back of your door?" As a future English teacher, I'm disappointed. Not to mention: Pia has way too much hair (just get a hair cut already) and for most of this video she looks likes she's posing for a senior portrait.
Overall, terrible music video. Her voice sounded okay, but I think we all know how much I dislike her.

The Runner Up: Lauren Alaina's "Like My Sister/Mom Does" oops, I mean "Like My Mother Does"

There is so much to make fun of in this music video! Seriously, she made it way too easy. First: Lauren, do you think your orange skin color looks natural? Do you think your two-toned, new extension hair looks natural? (It doesn't.) I love how they have her standing in the kitchen and sitting on the couch. If that's what her Sister/Mom does, it shouldn't be hard to be like her. Oh, and she wants to bow her head and pray (I'm so glad my mom doesn't do that).
Does anyone else think they've given Miss Lauren way too much cleavage for a 16 year old? Because I sure do. I also loved that tear she added for POW when looking at a family photo album.
PS: Lauren's Sister/Mom was just glad she had a cameo.

Finally, the winner, Scotty McCreery's "I Love You This Big"

It was really tough for me, but I managed to push past the cheesy opening line "I know I'm still young" (the first time I tried to watch it, I turned it off right away). I also just love how Scotty wants to remind people that he loves Jesus a lot by wearing that cross necklace all the time. There were way too many close ups of his face, and it started to freak me out.
Look, I just want everybody to know something: Whatever American Idol producer that told Scotty to stop holding the microphone like a flute should be fired immediately (if not something more drastic). He is Scotty da Body, Flute Extraordinaire for a reason.
Before I go, I should mention just how much I dislike this video and the song. It was hard just to watch it.
PS: Does anybody else find it hard to believe that deep voice comes from him? When we saw Scotty in concert, I realized it's completely real, but on a video it seems fake.

Okay, there you go Idol fans. Enjoy.

Music Review: Barry, "Yawnin' in the Dawnin'"

Hello again, folks. As I'm sure all of you know by now, I'm a huge music fan, especially music from unique, smaller bands. Today I'll be reviewing a folk rock band, Barry, comprised of three brothers from New York. Ben Barry is an English teacher (my future career), Pat and Ben are both former Marines, and Bradford is in school, but together they are following their musical dream. Major respect there. So, are you ready to rock and roll (or rock and folk, I don't know)? Good, let's get started.

Song by Song Review
Their EP starts out with the short song "Yawnin' in the Dawnin'", and at first I was skeptical. And then the foot stomping kicked in and I found myself tapping my feet along to the beat.
"For Your Own Good" starts out with a harmonica solo that is included throughout the song, and makes this rock song feel more bluesy. I love the voice of the singer (although I'm not completely sure which one is singing the most), and the harmonies with all three of them add to the folksy feel of their music. Easily my favorite off of the EP, this song skillfully balances folk and rock.
"Carnival(e)" has a darker feel with the fantastical lyrics and soft, low voice of the singer. This is another great example of how Barry can combine the folk and rock genres into one song. Not to mention the soft pounding of the bass drum makes this song very catchy.
"Three Years in Carolina" also features the excellent vocal harmonies of the brothers. The lyrics to this song feel very country and folksy, but the beat adds to the rock aspect of the band. As the song comes closer to the end, all we hear is the guitar and the singer, and that is truly a beautiful moment, and then it picks back up again (as all good songs do).
"Drink One More" comes up next, and it starts a little slow. I really like how the brothers switch off with the singing, and then harmonize in the choruses; it makes their songs much more interesting to listen to. The almost church choir-like harmonizing of their voices closer to the end of this song is haunting, I love it (I listened to it again after the song ended).
"Love Something Too Much" is another great example of the country-esque lyrics, but the folk rock feel makes the song less "hick-y" than if it were just another country song. One line from the song really got me, "She sang the saddest songs on the radio." The lyrics in this song are great, and I greatly admire when musicians write their own music, it adds to credibility and talent.
Last but not least, "Great Unknown" wraps up this EP. This song is one of those rock ballads that I could almost see being tied into a scene in a movie. I think this is another great song that epitomizes their balance of folk rock sound with emotional, almost country-style lyrics.

As I usually do with anything, Overall Grade of EP: B+
This was a great debut EP, and I can't wait to see what Barry has coming next. Their sound is unique and interesting, which makes them a great listen and I would (and will) suggest them to friends. They will appeal to many people because of how they combine rock music with country-style lyrics, which can be a hard thing to do. Overall, this was very good. My only problem is that sometimes it's hard to hear what they're saying over the loud music (specifically in "Great Unknown"), and their lyrics are truly great that deserve to be clearly heard. I can see Barry making it pretty big, and I really hope they do!

Here's more stuff about Barry for you music fans out there. A video, and a link to their website, and a message: PLEASE buy their music on iTunes. If you like this band (which I'm sure you do), please buy their music instead of downloading it elsewhere. They deserve the money and publicity for their music.
Check out Barry's website HERE!

"Carnival(e)"

Enjoy this dose of new music, guys!

When In Doubt...Mumford & Sons

I find that this has become my motto in life. When I can't think of anything to write about, or whatever, I just resort to Mumford & Sons. I find that this is perfectly reasonable.

So here I have some videos of songs that you may or may not have heard before (because they aren't on their debut album). Enjoy, folks!

"Lover of the Light"

"Hopeless Wanderer"

"She Said Yes" (In the future, I hope this is the song that the band will spontaneously play after Country Winston proposes to me and I say yes)

"Broken Crown"

That's all I've got for now. Soak in the Mum.

Would You Like to Download "Sister" from Mumford & Sons?

Here's the best part: It's free! And legal! (That is the best combination when it comes to music. I am strongly opposed to illegally downloading music, just so you know.)

So guys, I found a way to download "Sister" from Mumford & Sons' website, hence legal. I happened to stumble upon it, and since I'm so super in love with that song right now, it was perfect! Would you like the link? Yes? Okay!
Download "Sister" HERE!

You're welcome world. To add cherry on top of this Mumford Ice Cream, here's some pictures. And another funny interview (it's one of my favorites). Enjoy!

If that's Winston smoking, I'm going to be pissed...

Interview with Mark Hoppus (Winston makes me laugh so hard in this one):

You're welcome, world. Remember to enjoy your daily dose of Mumford & His Sons (especially the Winston Marshall son).

You Want MORE Mumford & Sons?!

Luckily, I have that for you. At the time I am writing this, I am watching tons of Mumford & Sons videos on the YouTube, and since I couldn't think of another post idea for today, you will be receiving more Mumford & Sons videos.
We have interviews, songs (I did ones that weren't from "Sigh No More"), and all of the Country Winston you could ever dream of having (PS: watching these videos has helped to seal my love for this man). Let's get started.

Winston and Ben talk with Billboard

Holy crap I love Winston.
"If Carrie Underwood was four different people, all of different race, and uh wasn't as country, and was British then that's kind of, maybe..."
Haha classic.

Singing "Sister" at Rolling Stone. Do you hear how deep Ted Dwane's voice is? Holy shit.

"Hold On To What You Believe" (This isn't a live version or anything, but this song was only released on the British deluxe version, so despite my attempts to change countries and buy it on iTunes, most of us won't have this song. But this song is beautiful.)

"Below My Feet" (This was my favorite of the new songs they performed. This is a live sound recording, but not video.)

"Nothing is Written" (This has a bunch of pictures that I want. Mostly to look at Winston.)

Interview with all four of them on Absolute Radio (Kind of long, but totally worth it. Then again, anything concerning Mumford & Sons is worth it.)

Random thoughts about the video: -I love that Ted's nickname is T-Bear. -Winston's laugh is bizarre but cute. -Marcus' laugh is hilarious, and I immediately thought of Ricky Gervais (like the radio guy said). -I love it when Winnie says, "Yeah, we're really scene-y. We're really cliquey... You gotta be good looking." -Marcus says, "We bring a truck of soil with us wherever we go." These guys are too frickin' funny! -I'm completely smitten with Winston.

Okay, that post was longer than I intended, so I apologize. But, as I said, you can never have too much Mumford.
Cheerio!

More New Music: In the Thread of Mumford & Sons

Hello, readers. Since my last New Music post went over so well, I have decided to do it again. (I will try to make this happen often because I know how much people love finding new music.)

Today's New Music is in the thread of Mumford & Sons, hence the title. When I went to their amazing concert a few weeks ago (which remains as the greatest night ever), there were two fantastic bands that open for them. I know have mentioned them before, but I want this to be a loud and clear message to the world. These next two performers that I am about to introduce you to are so flipping awesome, your brain might explode (wear a helmet). Ready for brain explosion? Let's do this.

Matthew and the Atlas

Matthew (bottom left) kind of looks like Mitchell from "Modern Family."

This was the first band to open for Mumford & Sons (the one which my mom missed because she almost passed out). So, hearing them live was pretty darn cool because they are full of greatness, but it's even more awesome to have their music for yourself, which I have. Anyway, this band was started by lead singer Matthew Hegarty, who is British, and he also plays the banjo and guitar. He put together this awesome band, and they are awesome. There is a female singer who beautifully harmonizes with Matthew, named Lindsay West, who also plays the piano.  The other band members are: Dave Millar - accordian, vocals, Thomas Field - drums, and Harrison Cargill - banjo, vocals.
So now that you guys have been formally introduced, onto the music. Matthew's voice is stunning, and like I already mentioned, Lindsay's voice sounds beautiful with his, a perfect mix of high and low. How the tones of their voices work with the music they make is just wonderful. The lyrics to their songs are so powerful and meaningful, they take my breath away. Like Mumford & His Sons, I would classify Matthew and his Atlas as Indie Folk. The banjo and piano adds to the folksy sound, without sounding too country. They are just the right amounts of rock, folk, and bluegrass. This band will blow your mind!!
Songs to Check Out: I Will Remain (my favorite), I Followed Fires, Within the Rose

Video Time!
"Within the Rose"

"I Will Remain" (So, according to most websites I'm singing the lyrics wrong, but I think I'm singing them right. Anyway, my favorite line is: "To you, is it a failure, to forget the ones you once held dear, I tried to remember but my mind is no longer clear. Ooh ooh ooh, you recognize me? I've fallen from, far from the tree." Awesome, awesome song.)

Next up is a Hometown Hero,
Nathaniel Rateliff

Before we get into the awesomeness that is his music, funny story: I was listening to him the other day and my mom said, "Oh, is this Daniel Radcliff?" And I said, "No, Mom, this isn't Harry Potter." I am hilarious.
Anyway, as I mentioned, Nathaniel is a hometown hero, because he is from Colorado (represent). So Nathaniel's voice is amazing. As the guys next to me at the concert said, "Sometimes he sounds like he's singing a foreign language, but he isn't. But his raspy voice is so amazing, and that makes his music great." I know that doesn't sound like the best compliment (it is one, I swear), but it's true. Rateliff's voice is so unique and raspy, that sometimes you can't completely understand what he's saying, but that adds to the mystery of his music. His lyrics are so beautiful and relatable, that I sometimes I have a hard time stopping myself from listening to the song over and over again just to take in the words (it is also like this with the former band). Rateliff's voice sounds beautiful with the instruments and how he composes the music and lyrics add to the drama. His music is also in the folksy thread, but has a little more rock than bluegrass. Rateliff often performs with The Fairchildren, and his voice sounds amazing when accompanied by the female singer of that band. Beautiful.
Songs to Check Out: Shroud (my favorite), Early Spring Till, Laughing

Video Time!
"Shroud" (My favorite line is: "Well don't blow my cover, it's taken years to make a beautiful shroud." Stunning, it really is.)

"Early Spring Till"

Okay guys, I have introduced you to these amazing, deserving, and probably struggling bands. Whether or not you loved these guys (although I'm 100% positive that you did), if you want their music, PLEASE buy it on iTunes or through their websites. Matthew and the Atlas and Nathaniel Rateliff are small, amazing musicians who deserve to make money off of the music they have worked so hard to put out there. Support small musicians, buy their music.
Matthew and the Atlas (their website isn't yet up, but it links to other stuff, and you can get a free track)
Nathaniel Rateliff

Enjoy, world!

Adventures: American Idol LIVE! Concert Pre-Show

Once again, I felt ridiculous typing that title.
This is just a post to fill the necessary space. Tonight I will be attending the concert in Portland, Oregon, and I am ready to rock and roll. I have my earplugs for when Pia Toscano performs (seriously, that girl will bore me to death), the same earplugs for when Jacob Lusk performs (I should probably also bring an eye mask, just in case he gyrates for Jesus again), and my rhinestone cowboy shirt to catch Paul McDonald's attention. We are in Row Nine seats, and I am super pumped.

I could do without seeing most of these people.

I'm really only going to the concert to see PMcD, James Durbin, and Casey Abrams. I'll sit through Scotty McCreery (hopefully he reverts back to his fluting ways), Haley Reinhart, and the other average performances.

To get all of us pumped up, here are some videos from PMcD, Twitch, and Cabrams (how I've missed using those nicknames...):

 

There you have it, folks. The pre-show to the American Idol Portland Concert. If you're going, I'll see you there (it will be hard to miss the girl in the rhinestone covered shirt). If you're not, I'll let you know all about it upon my return.

The Church of Mumford: Meet the Prophets

As with any religion, there are prophets who deliver the message of divinity and such through stories and books. With the Church of Mumford, the prophets are singers who deliver the message of awesomeness through music and being awesome. As I'm sure you know (assuming you are a dedicated follower of the Church of Mumford), the main doctrines of the Church of Mumford are the album "Sigh No More" and the concept of The Holy Mum-Trinity: The Mumford, The Sons, and The Holy Banjo.

After that quick introduction, let's move onto the prophets (whom I've listed in alphabetical order, based on first name):

Ben Lovett:
Ah yes, the prophet that plays the accordion and piano, as well as lends his vocals to the harmonies. This guy is awesome, and I love seeing him get into his music when he starts stomping his feet as he is hunched over his piano. Ben truly is a great musician, and I read in a wonderful article (that my dear friend Rocco showed me, which I will link to at the end of this post) that he and Marcus have been playing together since "the age of about 12." Wow! They truly go way back. Hence, prophets. Also, Lovett is a really rad last name.

Let the sound of my accordion woo into the Church of Mumford.

Marcus Mumford
As his name suggests, he is the First Founding Father/Prophet of the Church of Mumford. Marcus lends his angelic voice and multi-instrument talent to this band. He plays the guitar, the drums, and sometimes plays the kickdrum while playing the guitar and singing. Is it any surprise that he is the lead prophet? (Answer: No.) I would like to personally thank Marcus for putting this band together and forever changing my life. Marcus, if you are reading this: yes, I would love to come to your show and join your band as VIMember. Because I can't sing or play an instrument (sorry, guys, the banjo just wasn't working out for me, I'm too busy). Here's our Marcus Mumford.

Mandolins are cool again. You're welcome, world.

Ted Dwane
This guy...he is crazy. He also lends his vocals to backup Marcus as well as strumming away on his stand up bass. Now, when we say Mumford & His Sons play in concert, I couldn't stop watching Ted. He gets so into his music, and closes his eyes and shakes his head as he hits the strings and sings along, it is amusing and magical all at once. Watch a video of them performing and pay attention to Ted (I'll post one at the end). He's also a pretty laid back guy. Here is our Third Prophet!

Our music even captivates me.

And, last but not least, my favorite of The Sons and new Future Fiance (plus, we're closer in age than PMcD and I are)...
"Country" Winston Marshall
Ah, yes. My darling Winnie. Look, if I haven't made it clear, I'm pretty much in love with this guy. He is awesome. Winston not only plays the banjo (which is much harder than it looks), but he also sings with his deep, strong voice and writes songs for the band, such as "Winter Winds." Every time I find something else new about him, I fall even more in love. He is super funny and talented, and, to make everything even more awesome, he's British (they all are, though). Now I will show a gallery of Winston photos. You're welcome.

Rachel, I love you. (I know, Winston, I know.)

That's my Church of Mumford post. Enjoy learning about the Prophets, and here are some other fun things for you:
Interview with Marcus and Win
Marcus Mumford Interview
"Dust Bowl Dance" Live!

Highlights from Bonnaroo (I'm not sure how this doesn't include every song)

PS: As you're reading this, I'm probably on a plane to Portland, Oregon or already there. My mother and I are going to an American Idol concert, so there will be quite a few pre-posted blogs. But, I'm sure you'll love them anyway (at least, you should). I'll do a post about the concert and something else, if I find time. Stay tuned!

Attention World: New Mumford & Sons Song

Look, this is the highlight of my day, and possibly my week. Just now (literally, this just happened), I was gandering at Paul McDonald's Twitter, something which I haven't done in quite awhile, and he posted a link to a new Mum & Sons song! How excited are you? Super, I'm sure.

Here's the quick lowdown:
This song is called "Home," and this magical band recorded this song while on the radio, KBCO, in Denver (represent). After listening to this beautiful song, I realized that they sang this at the concert I attended in Denver (I'm pretty much 90% sure of this fact), and I was super excited. So anyway, this song is amazing. Marcus' voice sounds like an angel, and Winston's harmonies with him are breathtaking. Truly breathtaking. The instruments are soft, but they support the lyrics to a T. Here it is, folks! By the way, you're welcome (we should also thank Paul McDonald, who not only first got me to buy a Mum & Sons song, but also posted this link).
Click HERE to weep.
Did you weep? I bet you did.

We are spectacular.

The Voice: And the Winner Is...

Who's ready to find out who the winner of The Voice is? I am (if only so this show will finally end)! So now, let's get it started.

Two observations right off the bat: Beverly is wearing a trench coat suit (cool), and Dia's hair is cut, or styled, ridiculously short (not cool). She looks like a geisha or something.
Onto the real stuff.

Vicci Martinez with Pat Monahan

I'm crrrazy! Just like Train's hair.

If you're like me, you're asking, "Who is Pat Monahan?" Apparently, he's some dude from Train (awesome band). Hold the phone! This Pat guy is the singer from Train. I had always called him train, I guess I just learned something new.Vicci and Train (this is how I will refer to him) are singing my favorite song of his, "Drops of Jupiter." Quality song. Train sounded great, and Vicci sounded just alright. I'm not sure this was the best pairing for her, Vicci should have been with someone a little crazy - not someone with crazy hair (seriously, Train's hair looked like he was just electrocuted). Despite that, this was one of Vicci's best performances, but it came just a little too late, huh?

CeeLo mumbled his admiration for Vicci, and I couldn't understand a word he said. But, I did love his blinged-out track suit (where can I get me one of those?).

Javier Colon with Stevie Nicks

I don't want to be a head nudist.

They got Stevie Nicks to come on this crap-tacular (copyrighted by Rachel) show? Wow. Someone must have done something they aren't proud of to get her, if you know what I mean... Something like being a producer on this show! Oh, snap.
Anyway, Javier decided to keep his Nude Head look. I can't decide whether or not I like it. Stevie Nicks keeps doing this weird thing with her hand, and it's really freaking me out. Also, Javier and Stevie are both acting and looking like they're a little high... Were they smoking pot together before the show? That would explain a lot. (By the way, I'm only kind of kidding.) I don't have anything serious to say about this performance, not that I ever have anything serious to say in general. This song annoys me a lot, and Stevie's weird hand movements are a huge distraction to me.
Adam Levine was about to cry - out of boredom? Because I was about to do that, too. Also, Adam almost implied that singing with Stevie Nicks was better than getting married or having kids (looks like someone is a tad jealous - Adam really needs to get over Javier).

Whoa! I just saw Christina practically grab her boobs. She gets stranger and stranger by the minute.

Have I annoyed you to tears yet?

Beverly McClellan with Ryan Tedder

I like singing with Teddy Bears...or at least Ryan Teddy Bear.

I want to call him Ryan Teddy Bear, because that's what I thought of when I heard his name. Fun Fact: OneRepublic is a hometown band! Woot woot (unfortunately, I'm not a very big fan).
I think this was a weird pairing. In fact, this performance is a mess. Ryan Teddy Bear doesn't sound very good live, and Beverly totally screwed up that screaming note, but decided to push through it anyway. Not a good choice. Ugh, this does not sound good at all! I've decided that I will never see Ryan Teddy Bear and OneRepublic in concert, because he is not good at all. The best part of the song was when Ryan Teddy Bear sang something about Colorado (I'm really trying to milk this nickname while I have a chance). Otherwise, this was a badly sung, weirdly danced, mess of a performance.
Christina looked skanky and complimented Beverly for being awesome. Then she tried, once again, to make a better image of herself by calling the judges "the brothers I never had." They must hate having the sister they never wanted.

Dia Frampton with Miranda Lambert

I. Will. Win!

I want to see a girl fight onstage. Why? Because I have a feeling that Miranda must be jealous of all of Blake's flirting with the soon-to-be winner of this show.
Anywhoo... They're singing Lambert's hit song "The House That Built Me." Miranda has a pink bedazzled microphone, and she kind of sounds sick (is that she is supposed to sound?). Dia's new hair is stupid!!! It makes me so mad that I'm using an excessive amount of exclamation points!!!!! She loses my vote just for that. Ugh this song is way too slow, they've pretty much lost my interest. Side note: there's a partial orchestra in the background. I've always loved when that's in a song, it makes it ten times cooler (except for in this instance). On another side note, I'm pretty sure I saw Miranda glare at Dia in jealousy. (I really want to start the rumor of Miranda hating Dia. Help me make it spread like wildfire!)
Blake is about to admit his undying love for Dia and his upcoming divorce from Miranda... No? Well darn, I was hoping for some drama. Instead, Blake just told Dia that she's like family to him now (that's practically and invitation to join them for Thanksgiving).

Okay, now it's time for 3 hearts breaking and 1 heart making (I know that doesn't make sense, but I really wanted it to rhyme), but 4 people crying...
The Moment of Truth
It's time to find out the winner... But, more importantly, it's time to find out whether I gain or lose $1 million (looking back on it, that might have been a bit of an extreme wager).
I hope they don't stretch this out and make everyone nearly pee their pants. Oh wait, Carson decided to make the contestants' hearts stop by announcing, "The voting was extremely close...that the top two were within only 2% of each other." Wow, let me think about that for a minute... No, wait, TELL ME THE RESULTS!!
Top Two Artists: Dia Frampton (duh!) and Javier Colon.
I have a lot of money riding on this...I better be right. Oh, and good-bye Not-Winners (aka losers), Beverly McClellan and Vicci Martinez.

And finally, after waiting for much too long...
The Winner.......JAVIER COLON!

What up, bitches?

Wait, what the eff??? Why would America vote for a guy who thinks lullabies can be about dead people, and whose last name reminds me of the organ that produces crap???
Booo!!!
Dia should have won, because she was truly an artist (and also because I just lost $1 million, which I didn't even have to begin with). How disappointing... This is like when James Durbin got voted off of Idol (but to a much, much lesser degree. I had more money riding on him than Dia).

Hopefully America doesn't screw up next season, in which I will (most likely) appear. You better vote me through, America! Look for me on either American Idol or The Voice, struggling to sing and play the banjo (which I'm still learning. I guess the only song I'll be able to sing is Hush Little Baby).
Until then...

The Voice: The Final Showdown

Hello, America! It's time for The Voice: The Final Showdown.
The top 4 contestants will compete for the ultimate prize...winning the show! And a recording contract and other stuff, I think... Let's do this!!

So the show opens with the judges singing "Under Pressure." They tried to make it sound all touching and stuff, but it souds so cheesy. And to top it off, CeeLo is wearing a red bathrobe (at least I'm assuming that's what it is). This song makes me think that the producers were just trying to fill time. Bad way to fill the time, producers.

Here's the low down for tonight: First, they'll sing an original song. This part makes me super excited. American Idol needed this, and this shows true artistry (and I can't wait to see what Dia Frampton does). Then, the contestants will sing a duet with their coaches/judges (which is weird).

Javier Colon

I have a hat for everyday of the week.

Adam fell in love with Javier. He clearly didn't learn the lesson about never falling for a married man (tsk, tsk).
Presenting his original song (but I don't think he wrote it): "Stitch By Stitch" about being a family man. Awesome.
Tonight Javier ditched his baseball cap for a leather hat that matches his jacket. Here's my thoughts: Javier had a decent voice, but it doesn't have the "wow" factor. He also keeps screwing up on some of the notes, and it doesn't sound great. Not to mention that the lyrics to this song are terrible (and cheesy). Seems like Javier is ready to sell out to the pop genre. Congratulations, dude. You'll be a successful sell out.
Now it's time to hear the overly enthusiastic judges gush over Javier's "family man" song. So Blake made no comment about his performance, Christina loved it, CeeLo talked nonsense but loved it. Adam got all choked up to try and garner some votes for Javier (what's in it for him, anyway?).
Overall Grade: B-

Dia Frampton feat. Blake Shelton
"I Won't Back Down" is the duet they'll be singing together. I'm sure Dia will rock it out! I want to make a wager: I wager $1 million that she'll win. (And if I'm wrong, then I'm deleting the previous sentence tomorrow.)
I have to admit...I love the sunglasses and suits thing. They kind of look like the Men in Black. Dia's voice sounds awesome, and her voice works well with Blake's. There's not much else to say about this performance, except that it's AWESOME. Boom. Oh, actually there is something else to say (sorry that I lied): I love their guitars, they're camo! Rock 'n roll.
Overall Grade: A-

Vicci Martinez

So, once again, the original song isn't really original - someone else wrote it. That angers me! Write your own damn songs! But whatever, we'll see what Vicci can do.
This (not really) original song is called "Afraid to Sleep." That's exactly how I feel. Insomniacs, unite!
This immediately shot down a ton of points because of the pre-recorded echoing of her voice in at the end of lines. How cheesy! And, to add to the cheesiness, everyone in the audience was given a glow stick to wave in the air (lame). The lyrics to this song suck, I hate pop music more than I can accurately describe. My thoughts: with Vicci, it's a hit or a miss on hitting notes. Sometimes she sounds great, but others it sounds terrible. I think she gets a bit too excited. The lyrics of the song killed it for me.
Let's hear the judges sugar coat their opinions. Tell it like it is, guys! Sheesh. Adam called her "a powerful little thing," and gave her his pants (weird, because either he wears girl's pants or she wears guy's pants). Blake and Christina blah blah blah-ed it up. And CeeLo sparkled in his bedazzled bathrobe and tried to sound philosophical.
Overall Grade: C

I am skipping through the crap-tacular (this is copyrighted by me, but I'll let you use it) Pitbull and Nee-Yo. I like listening to talented singers - which is why I can't wait to stop watching The Voice.

Beverly McClellan feat. Christina Aguliera
Guess what song Christina chose? "Beautiful." Gosh, she sure has a huge head, by choosing her own song and gushing about how awesome it is. I'm just glad that Beverly is singing it, as well because she is unique and talented.
Beverly starts it off sounding awesome, and then...Christina steps in, and tries to overshadow the contestant (but this isn't shocking). I think it's awesome that Beverly got to sing this, because you can feel the emotion behind the words for her. Her voice sounds great, very strong performance for Beverly (Christina, on the other hand, should probably sing different songs). I dug it! If Dia doesn't win, Beverly should. Actually, Beverly should win but I think Dia will win.
Overall Grade: A

Dia Frampton

She may be shy, but mess with her, and that coffee will be thrown in your face.

I'm really mad because Dia didn't get to choose her own original song! That must make her frustrated, because she's spent years writing her own lyrics. Dia is an artist, and she should be able to use her own music.
Here is "original" song "Inventing Shadows."
Dia took to the piano to sing this new song (when she should be singing her own song). Her voice is so unique and she shows so much emotion, and I love that about her. Unfortunately, the lyrics aren't the great so she probably isn't feeling as emotionally connected to this song. Also, the guys who are dancing behind the screens to seem shadows is super cheesy (my mom pointed out tht strippers usually do that).
Christina didn't even compliment Dia, but instead talked about herself (that's the point of being a judge). CeeLo said her song will be number 1 on iTunes, I sure hope so. Adam pointed out that the theatrics were stupid (agreed!). Blake pointed out that Dia is awesome.
Overall Grade: A- I'm still just angry that she didn't get to write her own song.

Javier Colon feat. Adam Levine
They'll be talking "Man in the Mirror" for their duet. How magical!
Javier removed his hat again! He looks old again, but better. Yeah, that might be a contradiction, but oh well. I'm not taking this performance seriously (sorry, guys). I think Adam should have chosen his own song, "Moves Like Jagger." Because, really, that song inspires me. Seriously though, their voices sound pretty good together. They're both high pitched, pop enhanced voices.
Overall Grade: B-

So, I skipped through Brad Paisley (sorry, bud). But I did see him pull Blake Shelton up onstage. Comradery at its finest.

Beverly McClellan

I hope there's a bagpipe in this song! If there is anything resembling pop music in this song, I'm giving up (on what? I'm glad you asked. This terrible show, is what).
This song has tons of crescendo, and it's called "Love Sick." Here we go again...
There's too much drum in this song, it's kind of poppy and rock-ish. I was hoping for some bagpipes or Beverly playing the piano, but it looks like I've been let down. Here's the thing...I'm not a fan of this song. It feels like the opposite of Beverly's style, and the horrible lyrics don't help (seriously, whoever they hired to write these songs should be fired or executed immediately). Beverly's short time at the piano was the highlight of the song...that's when her voice sounded the best, too. I'm more disappointed with the song than Beverly's voice.
CeeLo is like a philosopher, in a blinding bathrobe. Adam sat there and looked hot (I barely listen when he talks, he's just eye candy for me). Blake said, "If music were crack, you would have a serious problem." Story of my life... Christina gushed and gushed and blah blah blah.
Overall Grade: B for Beverly

Vicci Martinez feat. CeeLo Green
For this "explosive" duet, they'll be singing "Love is a Battlefield." I'm not completely sure what CeeLo said most of the time, but I did hear him say something about "whipper snappers."
So, according to Vicci and CeeLo, this will be epic (it sure seems that way). A rock version of a classic ballad, I can't wait.
CeeLo comes out looking like a character from World of Warcraft with young children bowing to him (that worries me). These over-the-top theatrics are ridiculous and super distracting. Also, my mom said, "CeeLo really is a freak." True that. I really liked the idea of making this into a rock song, but I much preferred watching this with my eyes closed (see what I did there?).
Overall Grade: D+ The ridiculous theatrics and CeeLo's semblance to a demon earned this performance a low grade.

Okay guys, vote smartly (Dia, Beverly, Dia, Beverly). The fate of these singers is in your hands. Don't screw this up like you did with American Idol!
And with that, good night (vote for Dia).

The Church of Mumford: The Meaning of "Sigh No More"

Hello, Blogosphere. I am here, once again, with a Mumford & Sons post (sorry I didn't do it yesterday, I was busy). Here's what's gonna go down:
Some pictures of the band and Country Winston (I think I'm in love with him right now), a video or two, then my interpretation of the meaning of the album. Then I will break down the meaning of every song (in the order in which it would make sense). You can skip over that part because I'm sure it will be long, but I need to release my theory to the world!


Pics and Videos (I'll insert more throughout the post, this is just an overall dump)
 "Sister" (Yes, I've already posted this song, but this person was FRONT ROW!! Plus, I get to see more of Winston, so I think it's a win-win.)

"White Blank Page" (notice how he says "this king" instead of "the king")

"I Gave You All"

"Timshel"

 

Rachel, let me help you play the banjo.

So, I have pretty much gotten everyone close to me hooked on Mumford & Sons. Although no one is nearly as obsessed as I am (I spent a good chunk of my day decoding lyrics yesterday), my mom comes close. We have had countless conversations about what the album means, as a whole. Because, knowing these guys and how smart they are, the whole album is a story. Each song can be looked at individually, but collectively they are one whole story (like chapters in a book). 
Are you ready for it?
Drumroll please....
Meaning of the Album: The Theory
This whole album is about Marcus (assuming he wrote all the songs) in a relationship. He is in a relationship with this girl (I'm calling her Ms. Mum so we understand to whom I'm referring), but he cheats on her with another girl (calling her Lover). This whole album details the affair, his struggle with doing the right thing, and telling his girlfriend, and the inevitable breakup with Ms. Mum.
Quick summary of some of these songs:
"Winter Winds" - the affair
"The Cave" - saying he will change
"I Gave You All" - leading to the break up
"Thistle and Weeds" - aftermath of the breakup, his devastation
"After the Storm" - complete aftermath, when it's time to move on
Holy crapole,  guys. I think mine and my mom's theory just might be right (we are 99.9% sure, but I'm willing to bet a ton of money on this). I know that tons of these songs are based on literature, but those are symbols for the events going on in Marcus' life at the time the album was written.

Okay, now I'm moving on. Again, this next part is optional to read, but if you are a truly obsessed and dedicated member of the Church of Mumford (and you pray to The Mumford, The Sons, and The Holy Banjo), then you just might want to read on.
Meaning of Individual Songs: The Theory
Forewarning, this is going to be long. I am going through every song on the album, and in the order in which they would make sense, were their album a book. Let's get started!
But, if you want it to be shorter, just stop reading about every song when I get to the italicized, lyrics part. Because that's when I start delving deeper into the meaning, but the beginning part is an overall summary of the song.
Good luck on your journey, young Mumford Follower!


Timshel: So, I really have no idea where this one would go if it were a book, but I'm assuming it would be a prologue (I'm just going to run with this book metaphor). In case you didn't know, this song is based off of East of Eden by John Steinbeck (sorry, I can't summarize it for you, it's too complicated to do it quickly). But a main part of the book is about the Hebrew word "timshel" which means "thou mayest." Which pretty much says that humans have a choice between good and evil, and life is part destiny and part the choices you make. So this details Marcus' struggle between "good" and "evil," but he's made his choices.


Winter Winds: This one is about the affair.
"Oh the warmth in your eyes lead me into your arms. Was it LOVE or FEAR of the cold that lead us through the night? For every kiss your beauty trumped my doubt." (See that? This is clearly about an affair he had, and despite his efforts, he couldn't resist.)
"My head told my heart, 'Let love grow.' But my heart told my head, 'This time no, this time no.'" (Usually it would be the other way around, but clearly there is some logical part of him saying it would be good to stay with Lover - maybe monetary reasons? keep that in mind - but his heart is somewhere else, with Ms. Mum.)
"So let the memories be good for those who stay." (He is only thinking in the moment, he doesn't care about the repercussions at the time.)
"You'll be happy and wholesome again, when the city clears and sun ascends." (He is talking to himself here, and this relates to another song. He is saying that he'll be fine when the sun ascends, meaning spring, when things are reborn.)


Sigh No More: This one is a good one. As I'm sure you know, this is based on the play "Much Ado About Nothing" by Shakespeare. And so many of the lines are from the play, but before I get to those...this song is an explanation to Ms. Mum as to why he had an affair with Lover. Onto lyric interpretations!
"Serve God, love me and mend." (Have faith, love me, and you will get better - kind of an apology)
 "Sigh no more, no more." (This is from a song in the play, and it means "accept infidelity as man's nature")
"One foot in sea and one on shore." (This is talking about man's indecisiveness, also from the song in the play)
"But man is a giddy thing." (This means that men are impulsive)
Okay, there are some Shakespeare interpretations. So he is saying "I had this affair, once, because it is in man's nature to do such a thing." Then at the end, he is saying that love is simple, and it just is, and it is his desire to find that love (which he may or may not have with Ms. Mum).


Roll Away Your Stone: This song is about, according to Mumford & Sons' website: "a man unsuccessfully filling the hole in his soul." This is clearly discussing the motives and reasons why he cheated on Ms. Mum with Lover. If he was unsuccessfully filling the hole in his soul, then there was obviously something missing his relationship with Ms. Mum. This also an attempt at reconciliation, "Roll away your stone I'll roll away mine, together we can see what we will find." (He is saying, I'll take responsibility for my faults, and you do the same.)
"Stars hide your fires." (This is a quote from MacBeth. It is saying that he doesn't want the stars to shine so that he would be blind to his own dark desires.)
"It's not the long walks home that will change this heart, but the welcome I receive with the restart." (He is saying that he won't change if Ms. Mum makes him keep trying to make it up to her, but with her acceptance and being forgiving, he will change his ways.)
"You had neither reason nor rhyme, with which to take this soul that is so rightfully mine." (Leading to the break up...)

Picture Break!

Rachel, you're a genius. Join our band.

White Blank Page: Okay, this one is his conflicting feelings with Ms. Mum, and it's pretty much the break up song. The first verse is where Marcus is asking HIMSELF (not anyone else, I just want to make that clear because most of his songs are personal conversations, and he shifts point of view a lot) if he can be with his girlfriend and admit what he did wrong, and confess to still loving her.
In the above acoustic version of this song, Marcus sings:
"And can you kneel before THIS king, and say I'm clean, I'm clean?" (Some people have interpreted this part as something about God, but Mumford & Sons are not a Christian band [when they, collectively, are god, how could they be?], but I think he's talking about his conscience. If he can be okay with himself for what he did, despite the fact that it's in his nature.)
"You did not think when you sent me to the brink, the brink. You desired my attention, but denied my affections, my affections." (Saying to his girlfriend that he wanted love from her, but he did not receive it, so, foolishly, he searched for it elsewhere.)
"Lead me to the truth and I will follow you with my whole life." (This is his attempt at reconciliation, saying "If you lead me to true love, I will stay with you. Please don't end this relationship.")


I Gave You All: This is my favourite Mumford & Sons song at the moment, it's so moving. This is pretty much a continuation of the break up song, where he is saying to Ms. Mum that he gave her all of his heart, and just because of one mistake she is throwing it all away. There are tons of things to interpret in this song.
"Rip the earth in two with your mind, seal the urge which ensues with brass wires." (So it's saying that her world is falling apart, all because of a connection Marcus had with Lover. But that's all it was, a connection.)
"Force from the world a patient smile." (This is my favorite line from this song. He just wants some time to explain and heal.)
"How can you say that your truth is better than ours?" (This is hard to explain, but pretty much it's saying that how can you say that what you think happened is better than the love we shared?)
"The blind man sleeps in the doorway, his home." (Marcus, in the affair, was blind to what he had with Ms. Mum.)
"If only I had an enemy bigger than my apathy I could have won." (This relates back to Winter Winds, when he is saying to make the most of the time they have.)
"But you rip it from my hands and you swear it's all gone. And you rip out all I had just to say that you've won." (Ms. Mum wants to feel like she had control of the relationship by ending it and breaking Marcus' heart.)
So now it's over.


Little Lion Man: First, let's see what Marcus Mumford himself had to say about this awesome song:

"It’s a very personal story, so I won’t elaborate upon too much. Suffice to say, it was a situation in my life I wasn’t very happy with or proud of…"

Come on, that's a dead give away! (At least it is to me.) So this song follows the break up, and how he wasn't proud of the affair he had and breaking Ms. Mum's heart and ruining the relationship.
This song is, without a doubt, a conversation Marcus is having with himself.
"But it was not your fault but mine, and it was your heart on the line. I really f***ed it up this time, didn't I my dear?" (He is so upset with himself for what he did, because he ruined the relationship that he and Ms. Mum had.)
"Wasted on fixing all the problems that you made in your own head." (Just an assumption, but he's probably pissed at himself for making up problems between him and Ms. Mum to, in a way, justify his affair.)


Thistle and Weeds: Aftermath of the break up, Part I. He's really upset about what all happened, and it's devastating him.
"Spare me your judgements and spare your dreams, 'cause recently mine have been tearing my seems." (He doesn't want anymore hatred from Ms. Mum because he knows what he did was wrong.)
"I sit alone in this winter, clarity which clouds my mind. Alone in the wind and the rain you left me." (So the symbol of winter is apparent in this album, because it's time of death and endings. And Ms. Mum left Marcus alone. The clarity which clouds my mind is so strong, because he knows why she left, but it still haunts him.)
"Corrupted by the simple sniff of riches blown, I know you have felt much more love than you've show." (Here he is talking to himself. Remember in Winter Winds when I talked about the head over heart thing? Well, this explains that - she was good for him for monetary reasons. And he knows that he can be much more loving than he was.)
"The sky above us shoots to kill." (I just love this song. It leads up to After the Storm, because this is referring to lightening, and he sings "rain down on me." The storm is the whole aftermath of the breakup.)
"I begged you to hear me, there's more than flesh and bones." (Here he is saying that there is more than just sex, and he loved Ms. Mum, Lover was just an accident, if you will.)


Awake My Soul: I think that this song is kind of an epiphany for Marcus, when he realizes that he didn't find his soul mate and that he needs to change (or, at least, that's what I think he means). This song is so beautiful, but the meaning to it still trips me up, so I'll do my best. I'm also not completely sure where this one fits as a chapter, but I'm just going to leave it here (mostly because the end of Thistle and Weeds leads seamlessly into the beginning of this one).
"How fickle my heart and woozy my eyes." (Fickle = not constant or loyal, likely to change; Woozy = stupidly confused. This relates to Sigh No More, because he is easily changeable.)
"Lend me your hand and we'll conquer them all, but lend me your heart and I'll just let you fall. Lend me your eyes I can change what you see, but your soul you must keep totally free." (This is where Marcus is doubting himself and his ability to love. He feels that he will just ruin a relationship.)
"Awake my soul." (This is him wanting to change and be better, but it's hard for him to just yet.)


Another picture break!

Dust Bowl Dance: This song is based off of John Steinbeck's Grapes of Wrath. Using SparkNotes, I looked up the themes, and here is one I found: "Refusal to be broken by the circumstances that conspire against them." I think this is a really important part of this song, because Marcus is coming to realize that he can't be broken by what happened. Let's interpret!
"I placed all my trust at the foot of this hill, and now I am sure my heart could never be still." (Marcus often uses the words "land" and "hill" in his songs, and I'm pretty sure they are symbolic of relationships. So he placed all of his love with Ms. Mum, and now his heart is broken.)
"Align my heart, my body, my mind, to face what I've done and do my time." (This is him admitting to what he did wrong, and realizing that he must accept the consequences of his actions.)
"Well yes sir, yes sir, yes it was me, I know what I've done 'cause I know what I've seen. I went out back and I got my gun." (In short, he's also admitting his faults. The gun part I just like, but I think it relates back to that theme I mentioned before.)


After the Storm: This is easily the most beautiful song on the whole "Sigh No More" album. It's heart wrenching, and is apologetic to Ms. Mum.
"And I took you by the hand, and we stood tall. And remembered our own land, what we lived for." (This is him and Ms. Mum looking back on their "land", otherwise known as their relationship.)
"But there will come a time, you'll see, with no more tears and love will not break your heart, but dismiss your fears." (This is the apologetic part. I feel like Marcus is apologizing to both himself and Ms. Mum for what happened, but to know that love like it is supposed to be will be good when it comes.)
"Well I'm scared of what's behind, and what's before." (This is hesitation for what will happen next in his life. This is also how, on the website, this song is explained. Marcus is scared of what happened and what will happen. Yet, it's after the storm, so he has to move on.)

The Cave: This is a biggie. First, it draws from The Odyssey and Plato's Allegory of the Cave. I think this is the last chapter/song in their album/book because it is the most optimistic song they have. Marcus made a change and is ready to move on. Also, at pretty much every concert they play, this is the last song or the encore. Let's get started!
"It's empty in the valley of your heart, the sun it rises slowly as you walk away from all the fears and all the faults you've left behind." (Marcus is moving on from his troubled relationship with Ms. Mum and all of the bad things he did. Also, remember in Winter Winds when he says "You'll be happy and wholesome again, when the city clears and sun ascends"? That's important, because the sun is rising here!)
"But I will hold on hope." (This is huge. The "I will hold" is repeated in so many of his songs, and he is saying that he won't let this defeat him.)
"And I'll find strength in pain, and I will change my ways." (Marcus will be stronger from this relationship, and he will change his cheating ways.)
"So make your siren's calls and sing all you want, I will not hear what you have to say." (He won't cheat anymore, despite the temptations.)
"Because I need freedom now, and I need to know to live my life as it's meant to be." (He is ready to move on from the Ms. Mum relationship and see life in a positive way.)


So there you have it, folks! Those are my interpretations of the songs and the album as a whole. Understanding the meaning behind each song has made me fall in love with Mumford & Sons even more. Try listening to the songs in that order, and see if it makes sense to you.
And, if you made it this far, I will leave you with a few more pictures (as a reward). Toodle-oo! And thanks for reading!

Gosh I love these guys...my dear, darling Country Winston Marshall, Marcus Mumford, Ben Lovett, and Ted Dwane. Gotta love Mumford & His Sons!

Also, I have to thank my Mother for our conjoined efforts in the interpretation of this majestic album. And my Father for discussing these ideas with me, as well. Also my friend Laura Mora for listening to these ideas for almost 2 hours last night. Thanks for this Mummy! (I'm preparing for the Mummy Award, meaning greatness in all things Mumford, I'm sure the band will award me...)