Posts Tagged Music Monday
Music Monday: ‘Broken Open’
Posted by Hans Haupt in Entertainment, Life, Music Monday on February 8th, 2010
Hey Milieunairs,
It is Music Monday and thus time for another Vivaciously Varietal Vibe! 
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Flavour: Pop
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Artist: Adam Lambert
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Album: For Your Entertainment
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Song: Broken Open
Rationale: I have, on many an occasion, written about songs which I have labelled as ‘hauntingly beautiful’. As it so happens, ‘Broken Open’ by Adam Lambert, is another song which fits into this category.
At first listen, one could be forgiven for thinking that ‘Broken Open’ is simply a mock rendition of ‘Mad World’ by Gary Jules; another of my favourite songs. Both songs share an eerily similar melodic pattern, one which is a pleasure to listen to. On a purely basic auditory level, Lambert’s ‘Broken Open’ is quite different to ‘Mad World’, offering more of an upbeat pop synth loop with spacey techno buzzes and pings added for good measure. Even so, the song has a beautiful sound made even better with Lambert’s sultry voice. Surprisingly, Adam co-wrote ‘Broken Open’ as well.
I must say, Adam Lambert has created a stellar debut album. He has managed to cater for almost every genre, proving his versatility as an artist. Even more impressive, is the amount of talent that was wired behind the scenes into helping him create his first album, from the likes of MUSE, Pink, Lady Gaga, Ryan Tedder (OneRepublic) and Sam Sparro, among others; all adding their own personal touches to each of Lambert’s songs. ‘For Your Entertainment’ is a brilliant pop album and is definitely worth listening to.
As always, whenever I post about Vivaciously Varietal Vibes on Music Monday’s, simply click on the name of the song to be taken to a web page that displays the songs lyrics.
Music Monday: ‘Feeling Good’
Posted by Hans Haupt in Entertainment, Music Monday on November 2nd, 2009
Hey Milieunairs,
It is Music Monday and thus time for another Vivaciously Varietal Vibe!
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Flavour: Rock
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Artist: MUSE
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Album: Origin of Symmetry
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Song: Feeling Good
Rationale: MUSE are truly an amazing band. They have such a unique sound, one which I have dubbed as ‘hauntingly beautiful’. They are, without a doubt, one of my favourite artists. A title which I do not bestow likely.
Although they have released a new album entitled ‘The Resistance’, I felt it would be good to dedicate a post to a song which has been ‘covered’ more times than one can count.
The song, ‘I am Feeling Good’, was originally written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the 1965 musical The Roar of the Greasepaint—the Smell of the Crowd. The MUSE rendition of ‘Feeling Good’ is one of the most unusual versions of the song that I am currently aware of, but one that is equally as beautiful as the rest.
With that said, I wish that you all ‘Feel Good’, no matter the day or the circumstance. Life is too short for regrets and grudges. So, ‘cheers’ to a new dawn, a new day, and one day soon, a new life!
As always, whenever I post about Vivaciously Varietal Vibes on Music Monday’s, simply click on the name of the song to be taken to a web page that displays the songs lyrics.
Until the next time “Milieunairs”!
Music Monday: ‘The Truth Shall Set Me Free’
Posted by Hans Haupt in Entertainment, Life, Music Monday on August 17th, 2009
Hey Milieunairs,
It is Music Monday and thus time for another Vivaciously Varietal Vibe!
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Flavour: Rock
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Artist: Story of the Year
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Album: The Black Swan
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Song: The Truth Shall Set Me Free (iTunes Bonus Track)
Rationale: In truth, I do not listen to heavy rock. Any song where the lead singer sounds like he has swallowed a flea ridden cat and is attempting to cough the poor sodden creature back up, is simply not a part of my vibe. Although not impossible but highly unlikely, I dare say that I would rather listen to the constant ‘bitches and ho’ motif’s of droning Rap and R&B driven artists than the cat call enthused rhythms of hard rock.
Even with that said, I can actually see the appeal to hard rock. Primarily in that I assume hard rock to be the audio equivalent of an extreme emotion; perhaps such as a raging anger or deep wounded sadness. That does not mean that people who listen to hard rock are inherently angry or prone to masochism, for those are merely unequivocal stereotypes. Instead I believe that the music serves as an aid, a medium of sorts, where an individual is able to channel his/her feelings through an emotional relation to an artists sentiment infused lyrics and tone. It is this emotional relation which drove me to dedicate this Music Monday post to The Story of the Year’s ‘The Truth Shall Set Me Free’.
“And you shall know the TRUTH, and the TRUTH shall make you free” ~ John 8:32
Recently it has come to my grave attention that various family members, of the paternal disposition, have taken it upon themselves to directly target myself and my immediate family in a rather negative and callous light. All seemingly because it appears that they are, unfortunately, inbred with the vehement disposition to automatically assume the worst in people, rather than attempting to find out the truth and the subsequent solace it will undoubtedly bring. This is incontrovertibly brought on by their infallible inability to face problems directly, instead resorting to hurtfully shameless acts of passive aggression. Consequently, myself and my family have been thrown into a rather emotionally taxing conundrum, which does not appear to have a clear end in sight, despite our reconciliatory advances. Ultimately, it truly is a sad state of affairs, one which has resignedly forced us, myself in particular, to re-evaluate the distressing indispensability of particular familial ties. I cannot relay the kind of soul ripping anguish I have felt over this purposefully vague description of a very real and unnecessary predicament. A predicament doubtlessly bore of uninformed, refutable and capricious suppositions. All in the aid of nothing, resulting in an unfounded quandary. If only they had chosen to seek the truth, instead of purposeful damnation, for the truth would have set them free!
"…Life is too short to be unhappy! You have to take the good with the bad; smile when you’re sad; love what you’ve got; and always remember what you had. Always forgive but, never forget. Learn from your mistakes, but never regret. People change and things go wrong, but always remember… that life goes on"! ~ George Carlin
George Carlin has, unknowingly, crafted an ethos with which to live by. One which has regrettably imbued me with the necessary counsel needed to allow me to inauspiciously and fundamentally, along with a sense of deep sadness, move on and away. The last few days have, without question, been incredulously taxing. However, as the infamous adage denotes: ‘what does not kill you, only makes you stronger’. Thus, I know that my family and myself will persevere, against all.
I will take, this chance, To break from your traditions
And I will burn, your worth, I’ll burn all that you said
And I’ll finally face, this day, With my eyes open wide
And I will erase, your lies, Tear off this [your] disguise
And now I can say, The truth shall set me freeWhen the sun is gone, And the rain starts to fall
I will be the one, I will rise…
Rise up through it all!An excerpt from the lyrics of ‘The Truth Shall Set Me Free’ by Story of the Year.
As always, whenever I post about Vivaciously Varietal Vibes on Music Monday’s, simply click on the name of the song to be taken to a web page that displays the songs lyrics.
Until the next time “Milieunairs”!
See how deep that bullet lies…
Posted by Hans Haupt in Entertainment, Life, Movies, Music Monday, Personal, The Red Carpet on August 4th, 2009
A few months ago, regrettably only after breaking my arm, I was approached by a well known South African public relations firm for my review of the ‘South African Premiere of Slumdog Millionaire’. Subsequently, I was kindly asked if I would be interested in being a part of their mailing list and any future ‘events’. Of course I responded with a resounding ‘yes’!
Since that time, I have been kept up to date and privy to the latest in South African box office records, figures and events. Often incorporating the information into my posts whenever I deem the data to be informative, applicable and or appropriate. To my surprise, it appears that the fruits of my labour have begun to ripen.
Last week, I unexpectedly received an official invitation to an actual ‘press screening’ of an as yet unreleased film. It goes without saying that I was incredibly taken aback and immensely excited. After all, it was the first time that I had been invited to an event as a ‘recognised’ member of the press.
The invitation was to the screening of ‘The Human Contract’, which serves as Jada Pinkett Smiths debut as both a writer and director.
The Human Contract focuses on charming, self-made marketing entrepreneur Julian Wright (Jason Clarke), who is constantly tormented by a viciously disturbing secret that he has harboured from childhood. With his personal life in shambles and physical pain his only means of solace, Julian becomes entrapped in an open styled love affair with a gorgeously elusive stranger, Michael Reed (Paz Vega), who tempts him from the rigid confines of corporate life to try and explore a bohemian laden lifestyle. A decision that will not only dramatically affect his life, but also the lives of his co-workers, friends and family.
Music Monday: ‘Forever’
Posted by Hans Haupt in Entertainment, Music Monday, Seriously?! on July 27th, 2009
Hey Milieunairs,
It is Music Monday and thus time for another Vivaciously Varietal Vibe!
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Flavour: Pop / R&B
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Artist: Chris Brown
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Song: Forever
Rationale: Okay, look. I did not actually want to feature Chris Brown today. Not only am I not a great fan of ‘R&B’, but I certainly do not like the guy for what he did to Rihanna. In fact, I believe he should have been sent to prison so he could have been given his ‘just-ice’ filled chocolate starfish destroying desserts.
The fact that he got away with molesting Rihanna’s perfectly symmetrical ebony face, with only a slap on the wrists, is unlawful. What kind of message is the American justice system sending to the youth of the world? Evidently, if you are rich and famous enough, you could get away with almost anything. Is that not right, hey OJ? Then again, who am I to judge, considering our president, the fanatical Jacob Zuma, is a politically corrupt polygamist who enjoys raping AIDS victims before taking long STI cleansing showers?!
Although Chris Brown is a douche, he has, admittedly, produced a few good songs with addictive beats. One such song is the sexually charged Matric Farewell induced Forever. It is, apparently, such a great song that an American couple decided to rewrite tradition by using the song as their wedding march, complete with choreography. I kid you not.
Although I have determined, via an assumption, what the couple were trying to do, a valiant attempt at breaking free from the confines of conformity, I could not stop myself from gasping in disbelief while laughing hysterically at the circus which prevailed. As entertaining as the bride and groom’s entrance was, I keep wondering if they realise that this video, and those memories, will, quite literally, be around Forever. What do you think?
As always, whenever I post about Vivaciously Varietal Vibes on Music Monday’s, simply click on the name of the song to be taken to a web page that displays the songs lyrics.
Until the next time “Milieunairs”!
Music Monday: ‘Reach Out’
Posted by Hans Haupt in Entertainment, Music Monday on July 13th, 2009
Hey Milieunairs,
It is Music Monday and thus time for another Vivaciously Varietal Vibe!
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Flavour: Pop
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Artist:
Hilary Duff -
Album: Best Of Hilary Duff
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Song: Reach Out
Rationale: There is no doubt that I am a fan of the popular genre of music more commonly known as pop. I can openly admit that I thoroughly enjoy music from, for example, the likes of Madonna and Britney Spears. Subsequently, I have enjoyed almost all of Hilary Duff’s work.
Reach Out, in my opinion, is a great song. Probably more so for me because I cannot actually ‘reach out’ properly with my right arm. Believe me, the irony of choosing this song, in light of my current situation, is not lost. In fact, it actually reminds me that I have something to work towards. After all, my answer to Miss Duff’s question is yes. Yes, I would very much like to show you ways to workout those vocal cords ‘reach out and touch you’.
What some people may not know is that the song was produced by OneRepublic’s Ryan Tedder and is built around a sample of Depeche Mode’s 1989 song “Personal Jesus”. Furthermore, Reach Out was Hilary’s third number one on the US ‘Hot Dance Club Play’ billboard and was specifically produced for the Best of Hilary Duff album, which is also the final record in Hilary’s contract with Hollywood Records.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JStfziF4duQ&fmt=18]
As always, whenever I post about Vivaciously Varietal Vibes on Music Monday’s, simply click on the name of the song to be taken to a web page that displays the songs lyrics.
Until the next time “Milieunairs”!
Music Monday: ‘Run’
Posted by Hans Haupt in Music Monday on July 6th, 2009
Hey Milieunairs,
It is Music Monday and thus time for another Vivaciously Varietal Vibe!
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Flavour: Pop Rock -
Artist: Snow Patrol
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Album: Final Straw
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Song: Run
Rationale: Recently the artist known as Leona Lewis released a song known as ‘Run’. What many people may not know, however, is that her rendition of the song is merely a cover of Snow Patrol’s original ‘Run’.
I have been a fan of Snow Patrol ever since the song ‘Run’ aired in the season one finale of ‘One Tree Hill’. Yes, Snow Patrol has been around for quite some time. Many newer fans however, only discovered this gifted group when their first true commercial success, ‘Chasing Cars’, was used in the season one finale of ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy. I personally prefer Snow Patrol’s version of the song ‘Run’, but I have included videos of both renditions below, as well as a poll, so you can make your own decision.
‘Run’ is a beautiful song which reminds me of loved ones lost. It is a reminder that those who are no longer with us are never truly gone and that they will continue to live within our hearts and minds forevermore. Furthermore, it serves to remind us that those who have passed, no mater how hard it has been, would want us to carry on, to be happy and to never let our inner spark for life and love diminish.
As always, whenever I post about Vivaciously Varietal Vibes on Music Monday’s, simply click on the name of the song to be taken to a web page that displays the songs lyrics.
Until the next time “Milieunairs”!
Music Monday: ‘Show Me What I’m Looking For’
Posted by Hans Haupt in Entertainment, Listen, Music Monday on June 8th, 2009
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Flavour: Pop Rock
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Artist: Carolina Liar
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Album: Coming To Terms
Hey Milieunairs,
It is Music Monday and thus time for another Vivaciously Varietal Vibe!
Rationale: I discovered Carolina Liar through the television series ‘90210’. You know, the reboot of yesteryears ‘Beverly Hills: 90210’? I would describe Carolina Liar’s style as follows: Two cups of Keane, mixed with a Cup of One Republic, a half a cup of The Fray, a teaspoon of Coldplay, with just a pinch of Muse (mixed thoroughly). Best when served fresh from the oven of teenage angst, misunderstanding and emotion. If you enjoy listening to any of the aforementioned artists then you will enjoy Carolina Liar.
I chose the song Show Me What I’m Looking For, because I believe that everyone will, at some point, ask for guidance. Throughout our lives we are given many choices. Each choice leads to eventual answers. Those answers result in a multitude of possibilities. The various possibilities are what allow us to learn through living. The question is, which lessons do we want to make a part of our lives? The answer? Well, each journey is unique and most often comprised entirely of our own creation. Simply put, the ‘choice is yours’. However, I have learnt that the choices we fear most, the ones which possibly harbour the most eventful outcomes, are often the ones which offer the greatest level of experience, fulfilment and understanding. Subsequently, the only piece of advice I can give is this: do not be afraid to take a risk every now and again. Even if you fail, you will gained experience, experience which may continue to shape your future… for the better!
As always, whenever I post about Vivaciously Varietal Vibes on Music Monday’s, simply click on the name of the song to be taken to a web page that displays the songs lyrics.
Until the next time “Milieunairs”!
Music Monday: ‘7 Things’
Posted by Hans Haupt in Entertainment, Listen, Music Monday on May 18th, 2009
It is Music Monday and thus time for another Vivaciously Varietal Vibe! However, this week I will be combining the usual Music Monday post with an Internet meme known as ‘7 things’. Thus I will be killing two entries with one post. Yeah, I know, I am cool like that!
To your left, you will see a blogging accolade, of sorts. Yes, that is correct Millieunairs, someone thought my blog was good enough to receive a ‘Kreative Blogger’ award *lets out an unintentional squeal of joy*.
It turns out that the person who nominated me was none other than the awesomely hilarious Louisa. She nominated Hans’ Milieu as one of her favourite creative blogs! Thank you very much Lou, you rock!
7 Things Meme
As part of accepting the award, I have to list the following:
7 things I love:
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Getting to into a clean, crisp & well made bed. Best part? Slowly easing myself into the cool depths of silk-like cotton, which caresses my skin, while my body creates rippled creases.
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Curling up with a good book, particularly when it rains and it is overcast and cloudy.
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Liquids, any and all. I love examining different kinds of liquids, how they move and react to different stimuli as well as experimenting with a liquids viscosity.
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The Internet. I had to include it. Being able to access, use and distribute information, from any location and about practically any topic is simply incredible.
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Exercising, particularly weight lifting. I love the feeling of being ‘pumped’ and knowing that your body is growing and becoming stronger! Yeah!
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Buttered toast, the smell and the taste… *begins salivating*.
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Last, but by no means least; my parents, family and friends.
7 blogs I love:
I must confess, I do not really follow or read many personal blogs. I do, however, view a lot of websites and blogs which are driven by technology, social media, games and anything else which tickles my fancy.
Any of the blogs I have mentioned are welcome to nominate other blogs and play a long!
Music Monday
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Flavour: Pop
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Artist: Miley Cyrus
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Album: Breakout
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Song: 7 Things
Rationale: My personal favourite on the album is ‘Fly on the Wall’, although most of the songs are actually pretty good. Granted it is standard pop fare, but she can actually sing!
“Breakout is possibly the most generic title this set of songs could have, but it expresses the album’s purpose nicely: Miley sheds the confines of her Hannah Montana image for an identity that is just as stylized and calculated as her alter ego. As with all Disney music, nothing has been left to chance. Breakout hits all the marks that a 2008 pop album should, right down to a dance remix and a song about saving the environment; cunningly, "Wake Up America" is one of the album’s catchiest moments” – Heather Phares courtesy of All Music Guide (Zune.net, 2009)
As always, whenever I post about Vivaciously Varietal Vibes on Music Monday’s, simply click on the name of the song to be taken to a web page that displays the songs lyrics.
Until the next time “Milieunairs”!
Music Monday: ‘Fuck You’
Posted by Hans Haupt in Entertainment, Listen, Music Monday on May 11th, 2009
Hey Milieunairs,
It is Music Monday and thus time for another Vivaciously Varietal Vibe!
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Flavour: Pop
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Artist:
Lily Allen -
Album:
It’s not me, it’s you -
Song:
Fuck You
Rationale: Of all the phrases to be blogging about, can you believe that the one song I choose from Lily Allen’s new album would contain the acronym for “Fornicating Under Consent of the King”? Those who personally know me can attest to the fact that I simply do not use the ‘eff’ word (even now while thinking the word I say ‘eff’). In fact, I barely swear – with the exception of the words ‘bitch’ and ‘shit’, which I use sparingly. Personally, I am not a great fan of colloquialism and believe that obscenely vulgar language, used in excess and no matter how deliciously descriptive, is just a new means of raping the English tongue. However, in this very rare case, I have made an exception. Lily Allen’s song “Fuck You” is brilliant! It has such a catchy tune and is a song specifically written for those who belong to minority groups (none of which I am a part of, being a straight white male and all) and who embrace a liberal stance to life. Consequently, I came across this video, called ‘The Big Fat Gay Collab’ (the video’s image placeholder is so sexually suggestive… I am not sure if I will be able to eat ice-cream the same way again…), while searching for Lily’s ‘eff you’ song on YouTube. Lily Allen’s new album is a pop fiesta filled with witty lyrics and tactlessness. If you like Lily’s music, you will love this album!
As always, whenever I post about Vivaciously Varietal Vibes on Music Monday’s, simply click on the name of the song to be taken to a web page that displays the songs lyrics.
Until the next time “Milieunairs”!
Say What?