[Atruejedi]

The Real McKenzies

 

Background: I’m only somewhat surprised these (Scottish?) Canadians have not a song in the database or the official Rock Band store. Admittedly, I’m not a big fan of the Real McKenzies, simply because there are other bands out there with a similar style that I admire and enjoy much more because, well… those bands write better songs. But I wouldn’t take away from them two gems that definitely deserve consideration. This post and the songs featured will be as short as my kilt. And that’s short.

 

The Obvious Choice:

Pour Decisions

Album: 10,000 Shots (2005)

Pour decisions, a punk musician just ain’t as cute at 53

 

A song about growing old and living with your decisions, hopefully with pride and dignity.

 

Vocals: Easy chorus, staccato verses.
Guitar: Electric chordfest to the rhythm of the ‘pipes.
Bass: Fairly standard punk rock bass.
Drums: Hard work.
Keys: Bagpipes, anyone?
Miscellaneous: Abrupt ending.

 

Runner-up:

Chip

Album: Off the Leash (2008)

The Devil said unto Chip, “Take these nails and copper roll
But you also have to take this rat and I will take your soul”

 

Generally speaking, making a deal with Satan is not a good choice. Sure, it worked out for Johnny and his fiddle, but for Chip…? Rats.

 

Vocals: It’s a fun story! Or tragic. Some backing harmonies at times.
Guitar: Electric chords.
Bass: Pretty freaking sweet… when it’s playing.
Drums: Pounding, for the most part. Love that stomping.
Keys: Honnnnnnk… good luck charting this airbag.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

Warren Zevon

 

Background: Remember that time Harmonix put a song by Warren Zevon on the Rock Band 3 disc and completely neglected his catalogue of brilliant songs? Not a single track by this genius has ever entered the Rock Band store, and it’s a real shame. Yeah, everybody knows and enjoys Werewolves of London because it’s charming and interesting and silly and smart all at the same time, but Zevon has so much more to him and his music. Where are the depressing tunes? Where are the silly tunes? Where are the silly and depressing tunes? I’m a huge fan of Zevon. I have fond memories of making a drink or three and putting on some somber Zevon tunes to commiserate and not feel so alone and alienated and different. Zevon gets me, and I think I get Zevon. Luckily, thanks to Nunchuck, we’ve got some Zevon in the database. Two of his creations would absolutely have been featured in this suggestion post had Nunchuck not already made them available, so I must make mention of his works, for which I am so, so grateful. I cannot describe the joy I felt when I discovered he had charted Mohammed’s Radio… even though it’s the album version (I prefer the live version). I’ve reached out to him with an offer to chart the female harmonies because ugh I need them. And Lawyers, Guns and Money was prime real estate for Harmonix to seize, but no… thank goodness for Nunchuck. But that sure ain’t enough. So get to work, authors. You can sleep when you’re dead.

 

The Obvious Choice:

Poor Poor Pitiful Me

Album: Warren Zevon (1976)

She really worked me over good
She was a credit to her gender
She put me through some changes lord
Sort of like a Waring blender

 

Seriously, Harmonix. How did you not release this? Everything about it is perfect. Everything.

 

Vocals: Backing harmonies during the chorus and some parts of the verses.
Guitar: Those opening electric chords just grab you. Awesome solo.
Bass: Groovy fun!
Drums: I’m not a drummer, but I wish I could drum this!
Keys: Joyful piano. I can’t imagine what this song would sound like without it…
Miscellaneous: Fades out. I don’t wanna talk about it as talkies, please.

 

The (Other) Obvious Choice:

Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner

Available now! Download here

Album: Excitable Boy (1978)

Time, time, time
For another peaceful war
Time stands still for Roland
‘Til he evens up the score

 

I enjoy story songs, and Roland’s story is one of the best. Watching Zevon perform it for David Letterman at the host’s request shortly before Zevon died of cancer still makes me weep. It was his last performance and perhaps his most memorable. If you’re interested, Dave eulogized Warren on his show after he died and featured a sweet and sad performance of Mutineer. Dave’s words almost do Warren justice, and I appreciate the attempt.

 

Vocals: The most amazing vocals. I want to sing the quoted backing vocals above so incredibly badly…
Guitar: None that I can hear… but see the note under keys.
Bass: Gentle and interesting.
Drums: Songs like this make me want to learn to drum. I will learn to drum this if it’s charted. I swear it. I’ll even provide proof.
Keys: Piano and organ. Might be nice to have both charted, with one using the guitar slot.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

Carmelita

Album: Warren Zevon (1976)

Well, I’m sittin’ here playin’ solitaire
With my pearl-handled deck
The county won’t give me no more methadone
And they cut off your welfare check

 

Zevon is a hero of mine, It might be controversial to include this track here because, yeah, it’s a cover, but it’s right up Zevon’s alley (and down his veins) and his version is the definitive version, and rightfully so. Hell, Jackson Browne (another idol of mine) covers the cover and simply calls it a Warren Zevon song. Poor Murray McLauchlan… no credit for laying the foundation. But, hey, I’ve given his fellow Canadians plenty of representation in this thread already, so a wrong has been righted. Right?

 

Vocals: A sad yet pretty melody with harmonies to boot. Sobering lyrics.
Guitar: A lovely Spanish/Mexican guitar. A real treat for guitarists. So pretty!
Bass: Relaxing. Time for a siesta.
Drums: Si, see above, Señor.
Keys: None, but there are multiple guitars.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

The Personal Favorite:

Desperadoes Under the Eaves

Album: Warren Zevon (1976)

And if California slides into the ocean
Like the mystics and statistics say it will
I predict this motel will be standing until I pay my bill

 

One of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever heard and one of my favorite songs of all time. It almost makes alcoholism sound attractive, which is… disturbing. But I just enjoy sharing it.

 

Vocals: The humming air conditioner hummed vocals are truly some of the most beautiful sounds I’ve heard in my life. What a strange sentence that is… but it’s true.
Guitar: Minimal, but when it’s there, it’s so lovely.
Bass: Gentle. Comforting.
Drums: I’d learn this drum part. It’s not hard. It’s… pretty. Is that possible?
Keys: Piano, yes, but there are strings as well. Beautiful, beautiful strings.
Miscellaneous: Fades out. It feels fitting…

[MrPrezident]

Ok so I don’t typically spoil the exact specific things I am working on but here goes.

 

Spoon – Underdog, Don’t Make Me a Target and Beast and Dragon Adored

 

Those will make an appearance one day, they are all in progress but not very far into it.

 

I know it seems like I’m ignoring this thread – I’m not I promise! ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_wink.gif” />

 

Edit: Now I kinda want to add Outlier!

Keeping the content Canadian since 2017!

SomeOldGuys: https://db.c3universe.com/songs/all/__user/someoldguys
MrPrezident: https://db.c3universe.com/songs/all/__user/MrPrezident

[Atruejedi]

Ok so I don’t typically spoil the exact specific things I am working on but here goes.

 

Spoon – Underdog, Don’t Make Me a Target and Beast and Dragon Adored

 

Those will make an appearance one day, they are all in progress but not very far into it.

Better choices than Harmonix ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_biggrin.gif” /> I like it when you tip your hand, Prez…

 

I know it seems like I’m ignoring this thread – I’m not I promise! ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_wink.gif” />

No worries! I find this therapeutic.

 

Edit: Now I kinda want to add Outlier!

[Atruejedi]

The Mowgli’s

 

Background: Perhaps my favorite pop rock band, at least at the moment. Three really solid albums, with a new single recently released. I’ve been diligent and included one song from each album and the single as a bonus. This post’ll be short ‘n’ sweet, because you’ll either instantly enjoy this infectious pop rock or won’t… typically this ain’t my fare, but I’ll chew my bubblegum if it tastes good. No idea how these guys put out albums so often, but it might be the fact that there are so many band members. Which is a part of the appeal… the group vocals are really, really somethin’ to hear.

 

The Obvious Choice:

San Francisco

Album: Waiting for the Dawn (2013)

I lost my head in San Francisco
Waiting for the fog to roll out
But I found it in a rain cloud
It was smiling down

 

A feel-good song about love and togetherness. Hippies. The title is appropriate, I guess.

 

Vocals: Fun vocals for a group, especially the doo-doos. Heh. Doodoo.
Guitar: Acoustic chordfest, but in a good way. Nice intro. An electric solo of sorts.
Bass: Sounds pretty fun, actually.
Drums: Could be pretty interesting.
Keys: Harmonica, perhaps? Horns?
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

So What

Album: Where’d Your Weekend Go? (2016)

So what if you know
How to dig through the trash and come out with gold?
So what if you’re broke?
I’m sure someone probably cares
But I swear I don’t

 

Somebody bringing you down? Yeah, well… that’s just, like, uh, his opinion, man.

 

Vocals: Group vocals as usual. The chorus is a joy.
Guitar: Relaxing chords.
Bass: Nothing remarkable.
Drums: Nothing special.
Keys: Something goes here… I hear piano at times.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

I’m Good

Album: Kids in Love (2015)

Spent a long time living this way
Worrying what people say
Feeling like I don’t fit in
But I won’t give up, no, I won’t give in

 

Affirming. Hopeful. Fun.

 

Vocals: More fun group vocals with a him ‘n’ her focus.
Guitar: A few parts to choose from.
Bass: Not bad at all.
Drums: Pop drums. I dig.
Keys: Nope.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

4AM

Album: [single] (2017)

I’m bored to death in here, wish I could disappear
Take you to the bathroom, howl at the full moon, an’ take me to space

 

A song about escaping. Isn’t that the point of pop music anyway?

 

Vocals: Fun group vocals with a focus on him ‘n’ her.
Guitar: A little bit of everything. Neat solo.
Bass: Nothin’ special, but the effect is cool.
Drums: Ditto. Predictable pounding.
Keys: None that I can hear.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

The Mother Hips

 

Background: I had never heard of the Mother Hips until Harmonix released Time We Had as a bonus song with the original Rock Band… and I was instantly lukewarm. Honestly, the song didn’t really do it for me. I understood why it was a bonus song and nothing to advertise or brag about. But it started something… because a year later I recognized the name “Mother Hips” when browsing the DLC store, hunting for new tunes to play and enjoy (because unlike the original game, Rock Band 2 allowed Wii users to purchase additional songs). Curious, I previewed Third Floor Story and White Falcon Fuzz from their 2009 album and that’s when I instantly fell in love. Since then, I’ve heard nearly everything they’ve ever released, from their fantastic live double album recorded last Christmas to the b-side and EP singles (like the radical jam Red Tandy which was bizarrely released as DLC, clocking in at six minutes instead of the usual two…). I fully realize Harmonix has, by all accounts, done these guys a great service by introducing people like me to their music and I am very, very grateful. I am so pleased to have their music in my Rock Band library. But I feel like these fellas don’t get the attention they deserve; the band still has so much more to offer your ears, and I feel a debt must be repaid by preaching the gospel of California soul music.

 

The Obvious Choice:

Hey Emilie

Album: Back to the Grotto (1991)

And of all the girls in all the topless bars in New Orleans
All they’ve got are ass and tits and that don’t mean a thing

 

The first song from their first album. It’s an absolute jam. These guys have been around for a long time, and I would say they’ve only gotten better with age, but they haven’t, because they were just as awesome 26 years ago.

 

Vocals: Melody and harmony start off gently enough, but man, that’ll change halfway through… great lyrics, too. Any song that mentions bacon is okay in my book.
Guitar: A little bit of everything. Great solos.
Bass: It gets pretty interesting as the song goes on. Patience pays off.
Drums: Awesome. And I rarely say something like that.
Keys: Nope.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

Gold Plated

Album: Later Days (1998)

All my problems are gold plated
All my bottoms exaggerated
My connections incarcerated
And I don’t know when but my genius faded

 

To contrast with the raucous Obvious Choice, the first alternate selection is a twangy country-ish song which I’ve always thought to be about having problems but being the cause of them or feeling guilty that those problems really aren’t so awful. This opening track makes mention of that California soul and references to an Eagles song to boot.

 

Vocals: Lovely melody and some nice oohs during the chorus.
Guitar: Relaxing acoustic chords and some pretty pickin’.
Bass: Nothing special.
Drums: Can drums be relaxing?
Keys: Nope.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

Rich Little Girl

Album: Green Hills of Earth (2001)

I don’t know about no rich little girl
Walkin’ around like her papa got some money

 

This ain’t the most complex song, and that’s fine. It’s just a jam for the boys about the ladies.

 

Vocals: Fun, simple lyrics, with interesting backing vocals. Definitely a challenge.
Guitar: Bad-ass guitar all-around, especially the solo.
Bass: Rockin’.
Drums: Lots going on here. Could be fun.
Keys: Nope.
Miscellaneous: Explosive. Because there’s literally an explosion.

 

The Personal Favorite:

White Headphones

Album: Kiss the Crystal Flake (2007)

Ooh, she’s making me move, I’m a man who never did
Now I got to learn how to dance pretty soon or get left behind by the kid

 

I hate sexy songs. They make my repressed self uncomfortable. But this is a sexy song I absolutely worship. Harmonix already gave this album a bit of love with Time We Had and the downloadable jam Time-Sick Son of a Grizzly Bear, but three tracks would make the album title appear in my library… ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_wink.gif” />

 

Vocals: The desire in his voice just… damn, Tim. I need a cold shower.
Guitar: Simple acoustic chords and tortured electric whining.
Bass: Seductive. Make her move those hips.
Drums: Keepin’ the beat.
Keys: A simple, necessary piano part. Adds a lot.
Miscellaneous: Fizzles out after all that excitement. Let’s cuddle.

[Atruejedi]

The Jam

 

Background: Singer and songwriter Paul Weller is considered legendary in musical circles, and while I’m not the biggest fan of him or his band, I do appreciate them enough to be surprised that Harmonix (and this community) has largely ignored the Jam, either purposely or out of ignorance. To be clear, I say largely because two songs actually are available: Going Underground (solid) and Town Called Malice (awesome). While the runners-up are not critical additions to anybody’s library, I do think The Obvious Choice deserves a listen because, one, it’s just so good, and two, it’s very different from the two currently available songs.

 

The Obvious Choice:

The Butterfly Collector

Album [b-side] (1979)

There’s tarts and whores but you’re much more
You’re a different kind ’cause you want their minds
And you just don’t care ’cause you’ve got no pride
It’s just a face on your pillowcase that thrills you

 

To be clear, this song is brilliant. It will make an impression on you.

 

Vocals: I don’t know how to describe the vocals for this one… pretty, yet… ugly? Harmonies are that way, too. Such impressive lyrics.
Guitar: Haunting guitar introduction.
Bass: Brooding.
Drums: On and off.
Keys: Synthesizer.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

Thick as Thieves

Album: Setting Sons (1979)

We stole everything that we could see
But it wasn’t enough… and now we’ve gone and spoiled everything
Now we’re no longer as thick as thieves

 

No, it isn’t the Kasabian song. This song about stealing, well, everything, and ironically losing the most important thing: friendship.

 

Vocals: A fun song for two friends who hopefully maintain that friendship longer than the song’s duration.
Guitar: Lots and lots of chords.
Bass: Not bad. It’ll keep you busy.
Drums: Holy moly. Good luck.
Keys: None.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

In The City

Album: In The City (1977)

In the city there’s a thousand men in uniforms
And I’ve heard they now have the right to kill a man

 

A short ‘n’ sweet lil’ ditty ’bout livin’ in the city.

 

Vocals: Melody and harmony, of course.
Guitar: More of the chords you’ve come to expect.
Bass: Phew. Busy.
Drums: Somehow busier.
Keys: None.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[naginalJJ]

I’d love to see News of the World by The Jam as well. +1

 

Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk

[Atruejedi]

Kaiser Chiefs

 

Background: Although I consider myself a huge fan, I’m the first to admit Kaiser Chiefs are an incredibly uneven band. Their studio albums sound great, but they are amateur and sloppy on stage and lead singer Ricky Wilson sounds especially rough… yet I’d still recommend seeing them live because they can be so damn fun. And yet fun isn’t everything about them. The band has released some surprisingly mature (and well-done!) songs that most ears will never hear, and I’m hoping to showcase that side of the band here. It’s worth noting that I Predict a Riot is available as DLC and Ruby shipped on the LEGO Rock Band disc (so my Wii will never have it ), and there’s a Guitar Hero conversion of Never Miss a Beat in the database (but it’s multi-tracked ). I’m pleased as punch to have one song by them in my Rock Band library… and now another: Everyday I Love You Less and Less, a collaboration between MrPrezident and me! But this post is for the underappreciated, unheard gems. There’s no Obvious Choice or runners-up here; I’m simply going to move chronologically to highlight the growth I’ve seen from the band (which was significantly retarded when lead songwriter Nick Hodgson left the band and the remaining band mates released the bizarre 2014 “protest” album Education, Education, Education & War and the terrible 2016 pop album Stay Together, both of which this post will ignore) and shine a light on styles different from their hyperactive hits during their golden era.

 

The Seed:

Modern Way

Album: Employment (2005)

Do you know what I was put here in the world for?
Could you tell me in three words or more?

 

The first serious track from their first album under the Kaiser Chiefs moniker. In my headcanon, this song about dealing with life in our rapidly changing world set the standard of great creations to come later.

 

Vocals: A sweet melody. Pleasant, thoughtful lyrics. Nice ahhs.
Guitar: Generally relaxing, but a little bit of everything.
Bass: Nothing arduous, but nice.
Drums: Standard stuff. So much cowbell.
Keys: A bit of synth.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

The Branch:

Love’s Not A Competition (But I’m Winning)

Album: Yours Truly, Angry Mob (2007)

The trick is getting you to think that all this was your idea
And that this was everything you’ve ever wanted out of here

 

A wonderful example of that mellow style they’re so good at but is rarely showcased.

 

Vocals: Great layered vocals.
Guitar: Lots of chords; gorgeous picking tinged with sadness.
Bass: Somber.
Drums: Equally somber.
Keys: None.
Miscellaneous: Fades out.

 

The Stem:

Never Miss a Beat

Album: Off With Their Heads (2008)

What did you learn at school?
I didn’t go
Why didn’t you go to school?
I don’t know
It’s cool to know nothing

 

The Guitar Hero people were smart to select this song for their game. Hopefully including it in this post will spawn a proper Wii-friendly version or a single-tracked version so I can enjoy it with you guys! When I said this post would feature mature songwriting, I didn’t mean to imply that Kaiser Chiefs don’t often write mature songs or that their songs are only fun… some are both. This catchy critique of modern youth is a great example.

 

Vocals: Fun vocals for a group, especially the question and answer verses. Great harmony.
Guitar: Somewhat classic intro riff. Somewhat bad-ass guitar chords. Somewhat bad-ass overall.
Bass: Very, very busy and thunderous.
Drums: Pretty busy.
Keys: Lots of synth.
Miscellaneous: Abrupt ending.

 

The Blossom:

Coming Up For Air

Album: The Future is Medieval (2011)

And if you want to know a lie then I’ll tell you a lie
If you want to know the truth then I’ll tell you

 

The band released 24 songs (many of them among their best) in 2011 but not a proper album… instead, listeners could pay to cobble together 10 of their favorite tracks into a personalized album. I thought this was incredibly stupid and tracked down all of the songs, b-sides included, to construct my own dream album (if you’re interested in the track order, hit me up!). In the third act of my track arrangement, the serious songs arrive, and chief among them is Coming Up For Air, which I find so… real. Not sure why. It just feels genuine. I consider it one of their best songs, if not the best. (Note: This song is not available on Spotify)

 

Vocals: Beautiful melody, nice lyrics, pretty harmonies.
Guitar: Piano is the real star here, but there’s a guitar doing lots of work. Enjoy the trippy, enormous solo at the end.
Bass: Nothing special.
Drums: Standard stuff.
Keys: Lovely, lovely piano. The heart of the song, instrumentally.
Miscellaneous: Sounds like an accordion intro. The song clocks in at over five minutes, but has an abrupt and strange ending.

[Atruejedi]

Counting Crows

 

Background: Counting Crows ruled the ’90s, yet Harmonix hasn’t given them much love at all, and the love they have given them (by releasing Accidentally in Love and Mr. Jones) is inaccessible to me as a Wii user. Nunchuck was kind enough to give us A Long December (which I’m certain will eventually be released as official DLC, so snag it now) and I’m still hankering to add harmonies to that tune. I saw these guys perform live a few years ago at an outdoor venue offering plenty of alcohol… the crowd would not stop shouting “PLAY MR. JONES!” the entire evening. So, the set ends, there’s the usual minute or so intermission, and the band comes back on stage to perform the encore… two songs down, and Mr. Jones still has not been performed. Lead singer/human-pineapple Adam Duritz eyes the crowd and asks, “Are you guys ready? I’m going to need your help for this one…” and the drunken hollers and whoops are deafening. “MR JONES!!!” The moment has arrived. The drunken, disrespectful crowd will finally get what they’ve begged for all evening, the only song they know by the band, apparently. Duritz then walks off stage as California’ Dreamin’ plays over the loudspeakers. The entire song. The show is over. A hundred plastic cups go soaring onto the stage and the boos were even more deafening than the hollers and whoops from minutes earlier. It was amazing. I ain’t even mad.

 

The Obvious Choice:

Hanginaround

Album: This Desert Life (1999)

We spend all day getting sober
Just hiding from daylight, watching TV
We just look a lot better in the blue light
Well, you know I gotta get out
But I’m stuck so tight weighed by the chains that keep me hanginaround…

 

Harmonix must be hanginaround in the wrong music circles if they haven’t realized this ’90s anthem would stuff their coffers with money usually spent on weed. Somebody chart this before they do.

 

Vocals: A predictably difficult melody sung by the great frontman Adam Duritz, which is bound to include a few talkies. Great backing vocals for friends!
Guitar: One of the quintessential guitar riffs of the ’90s. Really. But there’s a lot of other stuff going on here as well.
Bass: Fantastic bass part. What a jam.
Drums: No opinion. Hopefully just as enjoyable as everything else.
Keys: Great piano part.
Miscellaneous: Well everybody twist! Those talkies are so stupid and I want them so badly. Strange but crisp ending. And if that is indeed a bong I hear during the intro of the song, somehow chart that.

 

Runner-up:

Daylight Fading

Album: Recovering the Satellites (1996)

She said everybody loves you
She said everybody cares
But all the things I keep inside myself, they vanish in the air

 

To be honest, after the Obvious Choice, there are too many options for our limited runners-up, so I am probably guilty of a bit of personal bias with my selections. I did select different albums, though, so good for me.

 

Vocals: A bit of torture in his voice, which is probably why I love it so much. Backing harmonies.
Guitar: I love the sound of this style of guitar playing. Just the right amount of twang. Like the other selections, lots to choose from. Great solo.
Bass: Relatively tame compared to the other selections. Relatively. Still freaking great.
Drums: Standard stuff, I think.
Keys: Sparse but necessary piano.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

American Girls

Album: Hard Candy (2002)

I wish it was anyone but me
I could have been anyone you see
She had something breakable just under her skin…

 

One of their final hits (if not the final hit). It’s patriotic, right? Plus, Sheryl Crow is singing those backing vocals. Crowception.

 

Vocals: Adam Duritz has a lovely voice. Nice backing vocals, nice female harmonies.
Guitar: A little bit of everything. Some electric picking, acoustic chords, electric chords… have fun choosing what to include!
Bass: Relaxing for the most part, but it can get funky as well!
Drums: Fairly standard stuff, but there are some interesting parts.
Keys: Some synth, yeah.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

Homo ananas

[Atruejedi]

The Wallflowers

 

Background: To be honest, the Wallflowers sophomore album Bringing Down the Horse is leaps and bounds greater than any of their other releases and one of the best albums of the ’90s. I think the band knows that, too, because when I saw them perform live a few years back, they focused on that album hard… which was kind of depressing, because they do have other good materials, especially from the album they had just released, 2012’s Glad All Over. I think they played two (maaaaybe three) tunes from it, which really disappointed my friend and me. That album is really solid! But it’s no Bringing Down the Horse. Harmonix has never released a single Wallflowers tune, which dumbfounds me, so grab Dash Riprock’s One Headlight before they wise up. Additionally, Nunchuck given us a cover of David Bowie’s Heroes, and while I’m not a fan, I have to plug his hard work and (relatively) good taste. ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_wink.gif” /> Who needs Bob when you have Jakob?

 

The Obvious Choice:

6th Avenue Heartache

Album: Bringing Down the Horse (1996)

The same black line that was drawn on you was drawn on me
And now it’s drawn me in

 

The quintessential ’90s alternative rock radio hit, joining two legendary (for the ’90s) vocalists to make a massive hit.

 

Vocals: When it comes to singing ability, Jakob Dylan definitely ain’t his father’s son, because Jakob is actually a good singer. But compared to guest vocalist Adam Duritz of the Counting Crows? Well, I won’t say he’s bad… but it’s really interesting to hear their voices juxtaposed!
Guitar: Pretty. Varied.
Bass: Pretty simple, but pretty fun.
Drums: Rockin’.
Keys: Heavy on the synth or organ or whatever sounds so beautiful. Some of Rami Jaffee‘s finest.
Miscellaneous: Fades out and is over five minutes long, so some sort of truncation is likely.

 

The (Other) Obvious Choice:

The Difference

Album: Bringing Down the Horse (1996)

They say that children, now, they come in all ages
And maybe sometimes old men die with little boy faces

 

Not as big a smash hit than the first Obvious Choice, but a smash hit nonetheless with a different style to it.

 

Vocals: Vocals for two, but no Adam Duritz guesting on the microphone this time. A shame, really.
Guitar: Because of all the other instruments, guitar tends to sit in the backseat for this one. But it’s there, and there’s a (relatively drowned-out) solo to boot.
Bass: Awesome.
Drums: Wowzers. Have fun!
Keys: More lovely synth from Rami.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

Runner-up:

Reboot the Mission (feat. Mick Jones)

Album: Glad All Over (2012)

Eyes on the prize, reboot the mission
I’ve lost the sight, but not the vision

 

Slightly trippy, which makes sense when you see who produced the song… Mick Jones from The Clash! No wonder I immediately fell in love with this tune.

 

Vocals: An interesting vocal part, but nothing remarkable beyond the fact that you can role-play as Mick Jones. The lyrics are… strange, but that’s part of the charm.
Guitar: Somewhat buried again, because the band is just so busy with the other instruments.
Bass: What a freaking fantastically funky bass part. Thanks, Mick!
Drums: Well, it’s Jack Irons from the Red Hot Chili Peppers (you know, forever ago), so there’s that.
Keys: Synth, of course!
Miscellaneous: Fades out.

[Atruejedi]

Paul Simon

 

Background: Half of the dynamic duo that included Art Garfunkel, Paul Simon has been around for ever and still makes good music. Up front, I’ll tell you: this man deserves at least four suggestions, so that’s what he’ll be getting, but even then, so much good and eligible material will be ignored, which is a shame. The man needs little introduction, which means many readers will be asking Why did you leave [insert hugely popular song here] off your list? Sacrifices had to be made. I didn’t include any songs from 1980’s One Tricky Pony or 1986’s Graceland, for example, and I feel like I’ve done the man and maybe myself a disservice, because I love those two records. I’ll try to spice it up and partially redeem myself by having clever headings referencing his other works. There’s a very real chance that Harmonix will, one day, release these four songs, but little chance of them releasing Father & Daughter, so kudos to the C3 authors for making a wise selection. Not as wise as marrying Princess Leia, though, which Paul Simon totally did. Lucky duck.

 

The Shining National Guitar:

Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard

Available now! Download here

Album: Paul Simon (1972)

Well, I’m on my way
I don’t know where I’m going
I’m on my way

I’m taking my time but I don’t know where

 

One of his most popular songs, and rightfully so. Spoiler alert: No Garfunkel, no drums.

 

Vocals: Just Paul on melody. There’s a distinct lack of Garfunkel here, and that lack of harmonizing made me think this should be at the top of the list.
Guitar: A classic guitar part.
Bass: Pretty simple stuff.
Drums: There’s some percussion happening here near the end, but maybe he’s just smacking his guitar. There are no proper drums, at least that I can hear… sorry, drummers. Hopefully the other songs make up for this!
Keys: Nothing of the sort. One of the guitars could go here.
Miscellaneous: Fades out. Chart that whistling! Song mentions mother.

 

The Obvious Child:

Mother and Child Reunion

Album: Paul Simon (1972)

I can’t for the life of me
Remember a sadder day
I know they say let it be
But it just don’t work out that way

 

A reggae classic from a New York Jew, recorded in Kingston, Jamaica and finished in his hometown.

 

Vocals: Paul’s melody is backed by a lovely female-sung harmony.
Guitar: Very subtle.
Bass: Smooth.
Drums: They sound pretty unique to me. Enjoy!
Keys: Irie organ, and some piano.
Miscellaneous: Fades out. Song mentions mother.

 

The Diamond on the Sole of Her Shoe:

50 Ways to Leave Your Lover

Available now! Download here

Album: Still Crazy After All These Years (1975)

She said “It’s really not my habit to intrude
Furthermore, I hope my meaning won’t be lost or misconstrued
But I’ll repeat myself at the risk of being crude
There must be fifty ways to leave your lover”

 

About ten years ago, I unwittingly heard the instrumental parts of this song in a mashup called 50 Ways to Kill Your Lover. So, yes, because of one-eyed English-born rapper Slick Rick, I became a fan of Paul Simon. How’s that for crossing cultural barriers?

 

Vocals: Paul’s melody is, once again, backed by presumably gorgeous females on harmonies.
Guitar: Seductive acoustic chords and sexy picking.
Bass: Simple and mood-setting.
Drums: Classic. The real star of this song!
Keys: Subtle synth, I think.
Miscellaneous: Fades out, but it shouldn’t be a problem. Song doesn’t mention mother

 

The Ace in the Hole

Kodachrome

Album: There Goes Rhymin’ Simon (1973)

When I think back on all the crap I learned in high school
It’s a wonder I can think at all
And though my lack of education hasn’t hurt me none
I can read the writing on the wall

 

This song really paints a picture. It’s a snapshot of Simon’s long career of experimenting with a ton of different instruments and sounds and styles to create truly unique tunes. And it’s freaking fun, especially that ending.

 

Vocals: A fun melody with a pretty harmony.
Guitar: Lots going on here, with plenty to choose from.
Bass: Bouncing and fun.
Drums: Fun, I hope, especially the ending.
Keys: Piano tapping. Horns of some sort.
Miscellaneous: Fades out. At 3:28 long, it’s over in a flash. The ending gets pretty intense, so make sure to focus. Song mentions mother.

[Atruejedi]

Less Than Jake

 

Background: I still remember the first song I heard by this ska punk band and the dead media on which it aired: Johnny Quest Thinks We’re Sellouts around the year 2000 on Yahoo! Radio, which was built into their Messenger program, if I’m remembering correctly. While that song doesn’t make my list, All My Best Friends are Metalheads made C3’s official release list, which is pretty sweet! There are even two songs on the Rock Band Network, but I don’t know ’em (they must be newer than what I’ve offered below) and I can’t purchase them anyway because they weren’t released for the Wii (even though we did indeed get quite a few RBN releases). I’m surprised they’ve seen no customs uploaded to the database other than the one from C3, so I’m going to suggest a few, because we could always use more good punk.

 

The Obvious Choice:

History of a Boring Town

Album: Hello Rockview (1998)

She said it’s so funny how life burns out so fast
So let’s take another drink and here’s to the past

 

The theme song for every white suburban kid who thinks he’s never getting out. Cliché, sure, but damn if it isn’t true.

 

Vocals: The melody is accompanied with fun whoas and nice backing harmony. The chorus is an anthem.
Guitar: Varied, but it alternates between ska and punk rock, which you’d expect from the band.
Bass: Phenomenal. A bassist’s dream.
Drums: Punk rock drums.
Keys: Horns! Duh!
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

The (Other) Obvious Choice:

Look What Happened

Album: Anthem (2003)

And I swear it’s the last time

And I swear it’s my last try
And we’ll walk in circles around this whole block

Walk on the cracks on the same old sidewalks

 

Not to step on the toes of the above song, but this is thematically similar yet stylistically dissimilar, and just as good and just as classic.

 

Vocals: Melody is the star of the song, but the very end has some backing vocals.
Guitar: No ska here! Just rock!
Bass: Much more standard compared to the other offerings.
Drums: Rockin’ drums, but nothing special.
Keys: Horns! Surprised?
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

9th at Pine

Album: Losing Streak (1996)

Is it the crowd
Or the way it’s going down?
Is being human watching all this without a sound?

 

A song about witnessing violence and doing nothing. [political shades on] Pretty appropriate for today, but I guess nothing’s changed in 20 years… [shades off] On a lighter note, this is my favorite Less Than Jake album, and I really considered Krazy Glue and Automatic, so give them a listen if you’re so inclined.

 

Vocals: Group vocals during the chorus, but this is mostly a lead singer song.
Guitar: Punk rock strumfest and acoustic ska picking.
Bass: Intense punk bass. Enjoy!
Drums: Hit and stomp things hard and fast. It’s punk rock!
Keys: A classic horn part.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:

The Brightest Bulb Has Burned Out / Screws Fall Out

Album: Anthem (2003)

You said you’ve been waging a war against the loneliest of nights
With the strongest drinks and longest lines
It’s not that big of a surprise
That you’re feeling more dead than alive

 

The first time I heard this song was on the Fat Wreck Chords anti-George W. Bush compilation Rock Against Bush Volume I and it wasn’t exactly the same version embedded above. Screws Fall Out was completely absent, for example, and the second verse was sung by legendary British protest songwriter Billy Bragg. Coincidentally, that’s the first time I heard Billy Bragg, and that’s how I became a fan of him as well. To be honest, I don’t care too much which version is put into the game, but ideally speaking, somebody would splice the Billy Bragg version of the song together with Screws Fall Out to make the perfect release. High hopes, I know, but Screws Fall Out really is the anthem of the Anthem album, so don’t discount it.

 

Vocals: Well, depending on which version is selected, you have Billy Bragg or you don’t. I prefer having him. ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_smile.gif” />
Guitar: This is the only instrument playing for the first two minutes.
Bass: Sit tight, then rock the !@#$ out.
Drums: See above.
Keys: Surprisingly, the horns for which they’re known are absent here.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

Harvey Danger

 

Background: This will likely be the most shameful “pet post” of my suggestions posts to date. I am not exaggerating when I say frontman Sean Nelson is one of my absolute favorite songwriters and voices and human beings. He’s a lyrical genius but he also has an incredible voice and range and the emotion to back up his words. This cigarette smoking ginger giant is a deity to me, and I was very pleasantly surprised when Harmonix released Cream and Bastards Rise as DLC years ago (one of the first guitar parts I gold starred, such was my dedication!), yet shocked that Flagpole Sitta never came until the era of Rock Band 4. Because of the American Pie movie soundtrack, everybody and their mother (especially Stiffler’s) knew this song in the late ’90s, and while it’s definitely a great song, it is in no way indicative of the music Harvey Danger makes. I’ll admit it’s the song that got me interested in the band, but there’s just so much more to the band than only Flagpole Sitta. I’m here to showcase Sean Nelson’s brilliant songwriting and the band’s various styles. Fingers crossed that you become as big of a fan as I am… but you’ll never be as big of a fan as me.

 

The Obvious Choice:

Authenticity

Album: King James Version (1999)

I have a stinger; I am a honey bee
I am a razor; please cut your wrist with me
You’re super-common; you flaunt your pedigree
You’re clear as water

 

One of the most bad-ass songs I’ve ever heard, but even then it was a toss-up because I’m such a Harvey Danger fanboy. This is their “hardest” album by far and Authenticity is the hardest of the hard, but it still isn’t my favorite song on the disc… that honor is reserved for Pike St./Part Slope, which is just… perfect, but a terrible suggestion for Rock Band because it lacks so many instrumental parts. Also considered were You Miss The Point Completely I Get The Point Exactly for its on the nose title and Sad Sweetheart of the Rodeo for its bizarre lyrics. My point? This, like all the others, is a great album.

 

Vocals: Definitely would be difficult to chart the vocals, but the abundant talkies might make up for that.
Guitar: Bad-ass guitar, or didn’t you get the memo? Neat solo to boot.
Bass: Standard rock ‘n’ roll bass.
Drums: Bad-ass drums (but not deserving of italics).
Keys: Synthesizer.
Miscellaneous: Bizarre ending that leads into the following track and would need truncated, but easy to make crisp.

 

Runner-up:

War Buddies

Album: Little By Little (2005)

Body counts mounting on a bed of barbed wire, coldly stacked
As soon as the morning light has broken, then we attack
If nobody tries too hard to kill you, I got your back

 

This album is probably my favorite by the band. Because the Obvious (for the album) Choice Cream and Bastards Rise was released as DLC by Harmonix years ago, I had to consider many other fantastic songs when composing this entry, including opening track Wine, Women, and Song, depressingly beautiful What You Live By, and rockin’ bonus track I Missed It. I went with War Buddies because it’s a personal favorite by the band and has more of the wonderful lyrics and songwriting you’ve come to expect from Sean Nelson. Goosebumps throughout… so many feels…

 

Vocals: I can’t stress enough how amazing of a singer this man is. Devil stars. Devil stars. Then I’ll cry when I don’t get gold stars
Guitar: Taking a back seat to piano this time. It can be pretty buried at times, which is appropriate when considering the lyrics…
Bass: Standard stuff.
Drums: More standard stuff.
Keys: Piano, the Harvey Danger staple.
Miscellaneous: Crisp.

 

Runner-up:

Terminal Annex

Album: Where Have All the Merrymakers Gone? (1997)

You complain about an overflowing cup
Don’t forget that I’m the one who filled that fucker up

 

This choice might be a little bizarre if you’re a fan of the band, but this debut album’s strongest single, Flagpole Sitta, is already available for Rock Band 4 owners (read: not Wii users). That being considered, I went with this song because it was a bit different compared to the rest of the selections and I thought it might be the most interesting to the uninitiated. Starts off mellow then gets to rockin’ and doesn’t quit.

 

Vocals: Nice harmony accompanying the melody. Pretty intense singing.
Guitar: A lil’ bit of everything, alternating between pretty and bad-ass.
Bass: Standard stuff.
Drums: Rock ‘n’ roll drums.
Keys: None.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

The Going Away Present:

The Show Must Not Go On

Album: [single] (2010)

You treat me worse than you treat any stranger
For my part, I say thanks
I am like a cobblestone street, and you…

You’re like 50 Sherman tanks

 

I briefly considered the wonderful opening track Big Wide Empty from their “lost album” of rarities and b-sides Dead Sea Scrolls, released in 2010, but then I clicked the root directory of my Harvey Danger folder and I saw it. Not only is The Show Must Not Go On another fantastic Harvey Danger song, but it’s their magnum opus and going-away present to their fans. They broke up amicably in 2010 and this was their final song, released as a single and a thank-you. Gosh, I’m listening to it right now and when chorus began and I started weeping… I’m glad Sean Nelson has since released a solo album and it’s really, really lovely, especially because I consider him the heart of Harvey Danger. But things will never be the same… and that’s the entire point of this song. (Note: This song is not available on Spotify)

 

Vocals: Sean is always the star, and the vocalist is here, as well. Phenomenal lyrics. Good backing vocals throughout.
Guitar: Somewhat varied. Acoustic picking, electric chords.
Bass: Standard rock ‘n’ roll bass.
Drums: Interesting drums! …to my untrained ear, at least.
Keys: Synthesizer.
Miscellaneous: Clocking in at nearly six minutes and worth every second of your attention. It goes pretty god damn fast, to quote Sean.

[Zanny77]

I can’t be specific cause I’m a little shit who loves guessing games, but I’ve got a song from your playlist planned somewhere down the pipeline (probably within the next couple months) that I’ve been itching to do for a long time.

[Author]

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