I went over to the mall and decided I'd buy a couple of cds to listen to while I work. Something old, and something new. Let's start with the old, shall we??
I'd been wanting to pick up something by Alice in Chains, as I've heard their music on the radio the past few years and dug their vibe. I settled on their MTV Unplugged performance (1996), and I was not disappointed. Despite the fact that lead singer Layne Staley was not in the best of health, his voice was there. He and guitarist Jerry Cantrell harmonize naturally over a somber acoustic backdrop. I'd always heard that there were a lot of bands influenced by AIC and now I see why. They're supremely talented musicians. I love the melody of "Heaven Beside You". One of those songs you just wish you wrote .
Now on to something new. I'd already heard Rooney's album awhile ago, when a friend here at work let me check it out. I thought it was cool, but maybe needed another listen or two to fully appreciate it. I picked it up and after a couple more listens, I'm diggin' it. Of course, I really liked the song "Blueside" the minute I heard it on the radio (CD101.1 for those in Columbus,OH *go BUCKS!*) The rest of the album has that same fresh, cheery California vibe. A nice offset of the Alice in Chains vibe. "Stay Away" and "Popstars" are two more standouts that have me hitting the rewind button.
I love the fact that I chose two totally different records by bands that have absolutely nothing to do with one another. When you work in an environment that is eerily reminiscent of the movie Office Space,
ya gotta constantly switch up the musical flavor to break the monotany.
Not sure how long Rooney will last in my current rotation, but it's a refreshing break from my other stuff .
I gotta do this again. The influence of two totally different musical paths can be really inspiring. I think I'll go write a hit song now (where's my post-its??). Peace!!!

Great choice for an Alice In Chains cd. After this I would buy them in order. I just think their first album was really a great debut and each cd was less and less entertaining for me, with the exception of the acoustic cds.

Uhhh, so scratch that, buy Sap and Jar of Flies next!

VinaBlue said:

I planned on getting one of their studio records next.
Thanks!!

Alice in Chains was a great band

VinaBlue said:

i don't think so... i think they peaked with "dirt"... their debut cd is great, but i think they had really expanded on their sound and lyrics a lot with "dirt"...