You know what’s missing from the iPod and the iTunes downloadable music store? Pure dumb luck, that’s what.
Listen: one day in 1986 I was in a brick-and-mortar record store, browsing in search of some perfectly ordinary music. Playing in the background was something odd and interesting with an African chorus. Then I recognized Paul Simon’s voice, and I wondered whose record this was, that Simon would lend his voice to it. The more I heard, the more completely the music hooked me, and when I got to the checkout counter, I asked, “What is that?”
It was Graceland, of course — and it wouldn’t be available for sale until the following Tuesday. The next Tuesday I was back at the record store to buy one of the greatest albums of all time.
That wasn’t the only time I found music I love through pure dumb luck, or kismet, or the “x factor.” I discovered Aimee Mann’s solo album Whatever in the same way. And in 1982, that’s how I first heard The Roches. They were singing The Hallelujah Chorus, a capella, in breath-taking three-part harmony. It was a remarkable feat, but I don’t think I was truly hooked until the next song, “Losing True.” I guess I’ve been hooked for about twenty-five years now.
Last night The Roches were here in Columbus, Ohio performing and promoting their new CD, Moonswept, which will not be officially released until March 13th. Their harmonies are still breath-taking. Their songs are witty. Some are funny; some are sad, and some are funny and sad at the same time.
Highly, highly recommended. Lots of free online videos at their website. Music samples on their myspace page.
Three cheers for pure dumb luck.
Post a Comment
No personal attacks on any of the participants here.