''Don't Night moves me, bitch!''

Another Friday and today y'all get the Bob review I've been promising. I know I know ''so exciting''. Hah. I do actually like him but more on that later. I've been scrolling through old blog posts from like 2010 and up. So many posts about concert count downs and freaking out over that. Fan girl life lol. There's a post in between from 2014 sobbing over My Chemical Romance break up and ''Fake your death'' being the last song they recorded together. Last song lol. Suddenly in 2021 ''fake your death'' is just funny. They were so fucking with us this entire time. I mean evil genius much? 

But what does make me wanna fake my death is that dreaded disgusting holiday coming up. Yeah this is your annual blog post on how much Valentines day disgusts me. If we stay in 2014, that's the year my ex boss made me wear leather booty shorts, lace corset and huge white wings for a promo shoot. I don't know what demon made me agree to that when we all know there's no way in hell I'd pass for an angel or worse a cupid. Yuck. Think what made me agree were the magic words of ''you can keep the shoes''. I have a weakness just like every other woman for shoes. Mostly boots and high heels.  Another thing to laugh about is that said boss and I after this shoot sat in his office, drinking Corona and watching ''My Bloody Valentine''. Corona. Whole different meaning in 2021, but the movie is still great. 

A year later I actually worked at a florist shop for Valentines day and if I hated the holiday on any other day in a florist shop you either peal off your skin or someone elses skin. I don't know what was worse men that came in needing gifts for both their wife and mistress or men that don't know their special someone exists on any other day but february 14th. If another person walked in at that time wanting to buy rose petals, not a freakin rose but ''just petals'' I would shoot myself. Red roses, chocolate, strawberries, champagne and tacky lingerie. Kill me please. 

I'm not single or bitter mind you, far from it, but the hypocricy of ''holidays'' created to steal money from people and ease guilty conscience from shitty partners disgusts me. Listen I'm not saying they're all the same. Attentive husbands, boyfriends, wives, girlfriends, that remember all holidays, that's cute, but those who only remember this one holiday? Ugh. My boyfriend is still trying to make me ''love'' valentine's day. Useless battle but bless him for trying. Though you know he makes a big deal out of all holidays, and out of all random days ''a bucket of roses because I was thinking of you last night'' kinda thing. Or ''got you this shirt because I saw it in a store and thought you'd love it''. I love that more than the shirt, the whole ''I saw this and it made me think of you'' thing. So thoughtful. 

And apart from the fact that y'all should love each other each and every day of the year (leave the romantic in me alone) there's something else I'd like to point out. All the people who have nobody, all the people that lost somebody, all the people that are not happy and in love. I get it you know lovers should have a day, probably, I guess, but there's no ''anti valentines'' day on the other end, for all those who for whatever reason don't want to celebrate. No black cupcakes, no gray and black candy hearts saying ''not you'', ''how about no'', ''fuck off''. No happy hour at the bar, drinking your feelings away, though what is a bar anyway? No black roses, no music dedication on the radio for those people. And lastly why is valentines day focused on only romantic love? It's a holiday celebrating love. So why not siblings, family, friends, pets, etc…

But because I'm in a good mood, sharing some dumb ''pick up'' lines for my punk rock, music loving friends that read this crap I call a blog. Punk rock because these are All time low, My chemical romance, Panic at the disco, Fall out boy, Sleeping with sirens, etc references. Enjoy these. And, yes, you are totally right, my idiot of a boyfriend is texting me these on a daily basis, but really, they're so stupid they're funny. Lol. 

''Drums aren't the only thing I'll be banging tonight ;)''

''URIE-ly cute''

''Roses are red, violets are blue, if you were a band I wouldn't break up with you''

''R u an emperor, cause you're gonna need new clothes when I'm done with u''

''Hearts won't be the only thing on fire tonight''

''Are you Sirens, because I'm sleeping with you tonight''

''Do you have a band aid bc I just scraped my knee falling for you''

''I'll bang you harder than the goddamn door''

''Your beauty has me STUMPed''

''Serenade ain't the only thing happening in the backseat tonight''

''My songs won't be the only ones to know what to do in the dark tonight''

''You're Way too cute''

''Be the Frank to my Gerard and I promise I will love you like I did yesterday''

I did say I'm dating a lovable idiot didn't I? Lol. These are so stupid but I love them so much. Alright now that I got that out of my system, how about that review that I've been promising? It's actually my fave album of his so this should be fun. Already listening to it through for the second time today. The older Winchester actually called him one of the greatest rock writers ever. There's a hilarious scene in the show (Supernatural obvs) ''is everything a Bob Seger song to you?''. I can relate. Many things in my life are also a Bob Seger song. 

''Night moves'' is the ninth studio album by Bob and actually the first album that also credited the Silver Bullet band which you can see right there on the cover which is actually ridiculous because about half of this album was actually backed by the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section so not really a Bullets band at all. But that aside you know what? This is one album for which I can say was very well received by the critics (who are still assholes, me included obviously) and gave Bob a nationwide success. Which would mean that even though this is the ninth album it's actually his first real breaktrough.  It got them certified platinum and sold over six million copies worldwide. Pretty neat aye?

You know people called Bob the ''poor man's Bruce Springsteen''. That explains why I like him but also makes me mad because it's not the case at all. They are both great musicians in their own way and though I see similarities in their ''story telling'' type music, comparing him to the Boss is just dumb, nobody can be up to Bosses ankles obviously. On that note just a quick message to all the press and people at Jeep. How about a fuck all of you? I am over this witch hunt y'all are playing with musicians. Listen to me, I'm all for punshment if one is guilty but only AFTER they are proven guilty, else you have another Johnny Depp situation on your hands because ''we always believe women'' right? Bullshit. 

It's hard to really define Bob as an artist, big success although deserved kept dodging him and it took a decade of slow building an audience before Night moves really blew up though critics (I'm telling you they're all assholes) still defined him by his weakest hits. Night moves came couple of years before the huge hit ''Old time rock and roll'' which I'm sure you all know or have heard at least once. Song that describes me so well ''Just take those old records off the shelf, I'll sit and listen to 'em by myself. Today's music ain't got the same soul, I like that old time rock and roll''. True story. So little new music that I feel strongly about. Well I do feel strongly about new music. Strong disgust. 

Night moves opens with ''Rock and roll never forgets'' which has the same vibe as ''Old time rock and roll'', it sets the whole mood of the record which is this nostalgic feel, and I think it's absolutely perfect. I don't know maybe I'm just getting old or something.  The song ''Night moves'' was the one that was an instant classic. About time too. It's the classic you know getaway teenage lovers. I don't know why I keep thinking of Tiffany and ''I think we're alone now'' when someone starts about teenage lovers lol. I actually love this song. Shut up, we all got our guilty pleasures. 

But really ''Night moves'' was inspired by Springsteen ''Jungleland'' which I think is pretty easy to see and it made it all the way to number four on the top forty chart. Fucking finally and well deserved. My friends and I use the ''don't Night moves me'' quote from Supernatural all the time though. Try having your laptop open on the desk, skype running (wait am I getting old, is zoom what's cool now?) your friend like ''I'll be right back'', he disappears for thirty plus minutes and in that time you get a bit frisky with your ''better half'' on the sofa…well…it's not like he'd come back and go ''yuck, can't you guys keep it in your pants for five minutes'' no no, what he would do is play ''Night moves'' laughing hysterically. ''Don't Night moves me bitch.'' My life really IS a Bob Seger song. 

I'm not even going to comment on ''The fire down below'' or ''Come to Poppa''. Cheeky. Reminds me of ''She goes down'' by Motley Crue. Not music vise, just ''message'' vise and between you and I? He would not have to ask me twice. Listen it's that long hair. My friend already diagnosed me that my type is ''tall, dark, long haired and ''stabby'' '' literally she said stabby. Lol. That has nothing absolutelly to do with my love for knives, Bucky Barnes and / or Diego Hargreeves. 

The best song on this album is obviously ''Mainstreet''. Maybe not so much the story behind the lyrics ''I used her, she used me, but neither cared, we were getting our share''. I mean I'm not sure a crappy relationship or a hooker type thing? Either way rather tragic if that's the highlight of your life, teenage using eachother type relationships. The bridge of the song was cut in radio plays which I find just proposterous but that's a story for another time. Let me just say that these radio edits are about as stupid as censoring that Poison album cover. It's a tongue people not a penis. The lyrics though are literally about ''Ann Street'' in his childhood hometown Ann Arbor in Michigan.

I think that the album as a whole may be one of the best albums out there in the time period (1976 / unrelated but holy shit I have so many albums so much older than me lol) because and I will quote someone right now (unfortunally I don't know who though) who said that this album is brilliant because ''it's a wonderful chronicle of the time when innocence became experiences and the child became the adult''. Beautiful description and so very true. The songs are written so well, they tell a story and they flow together perfectly. I guess they tell the story on what it was like to be a young adult in the midwest in the 70's. I wasn't there then but that's what I imagine it was like. A Bob Seger song. 

It's pretty obvious that Bob was influenced by Springsteen, apart from his words you can hear it. This was about the same time as ''Born to run'' came out (1975) and it turned the rock and roll world completely upside down, it was different it was new, they had Clarence. Who didn't feel inspired by Bruce I wonder. He was and is to this day an amazing musician. (seriously piss off Jeep). But I think the biggest difference between the two may be that Bob's music / vocals are a bit rougher while the Boss a perfectionist and all is far more polished. The production alone is completely different. Of course if they were completely alike one would call that a copy cat and move on. And if I'd had to point out another song on Night moves than for sure ''Sunburts'' which just might be the best sorta screaming bluesy vocals that sound way too angry and yet subtle and passionate enough to be right on that edge of maybe being a ballad song, it's something else that song. 

I think what later won the people over with this album is this blend of Springsteeny roots, rough bluesy rock n roll and badass attitude of the record. It was about time too, he would deserve success much sooner with that raspy yet powerful voice which reminds me of whiskey flavour and this smooth warmth like a cat fur feels when a cat is laying on the sun. I know I'm crazy but that's what I think about when thinking of that voice. And songs that were about love, women, blue collar hard working people? Who doesn't prefer that over ''bitches'' and ''dolla dolla bills''. Just saying. 

Unfortunally if you wanna hop on this train you're a bit too late, Bob was on a farewell tour in 2019 and I believe that his concert in Philadelphia on November 1st may very well be the last one. I doubt this is a Motley Crue situation. While we're at it do you know how angry this no concerts thing is making me in this aspect as well? All my favourite musicians are people of ''a certain age'', Corona took a year of touring from them, younger bands wont feel it but someone like the Stones will and we were literally robbed of so much it makes my heart hurt. 

Right so to wrap up this babbling I'm sure you're just dying for this post to end already, if y'all are curious, wanna get into Seger or just give it a try then start with ''Night moves'' because it is the best album and then move on to the rest if you end up liking it. 

Enjoy the weekend, I'll be buried under about 40 sketches that I want to finish in the following week. Crazy is crazy I know. Cheers guys!

Music is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual life.

I need to start this post with a quick apology. I'm sorry there was no Bob Seger post on Friday. Something came up and usually that would mean a concert, a party, trying 5 types of beer in a local bar…truth is I forgot what a concert feels like and what beer tastes like. What happened was I was held up furiously sketching about 50 sketches of Alexi Laiho. I know. I went a little crazy. But I suppose that's my way of coping with a loss of a brilliant musician. These doodles are up on my art IG (purpleskylineart) in case and of you are interested. 

So, how did y'all survive yet another week in lockdown? Is it just me or they keep getting harder to stand? I mean ''fed up'' doesn't begin to cover the emotion of how badly I want this hell to end. Though there may be a light at the end of the tunnel after all. Government says they might start opening stores and other things next week. God bless, it's been a long ''couple'' of months.  You know me and my ''unhealthy'' obsession with tshirts? I mean I stopped counting at like 600 but I assume I have about 1000 at this point, and do you know how long it's been since I bought a new one? Months. How do I live? Though we all know it's tour shirts I want but lets not go there again. 

Alright without too much ranting and rambling I'll get to the point faster today. Album review but not about Bob. Sorry. Next week. An album showing up in my mail box by an artist I absolutely adore made me change my mind. You guys I cried for good ten minutes when unpacking this album. Lol. I know crazy fan girl and all that. It was a gift mind you and I probably don't stress this enough on here but I really do have the best friends on the planet that know how to cheer up a miserable girl. 

Now off to the artist, if you look at the many GIFs at the side you'll see him on the first one. Dark haired in his movie ''The Devils Violinist''. Mr. David Garrett as Niccolo Paganini, who I also love because Paganini for the time he was in was the perfect bad boy. It's a great movie, acting spot on, music obviously too (lets be serious there's nobody who can step into Paganini's shoes so easily) and I will never ever get over the scenes shot in Vienna when I WAS actually in Vienna, not far from the location. Please murder me. Thank you. Though I aint sure what would happen if that pretty boy stood in front of me, I'd probably freeze, cry, pass out, hyperventilate, get choked up, not say a word or scream, possibly in that order. Lol. 

I was lucky enough to see him in 2018 which if you look back you can read about. It was a whole new experience because in theory he's a classical musician and I never saw a classical concert before. Liking this type of music is not out of character mind you, I actually love Beethoven, Bach especially, Mozart, Brahms, Wagner, Debussy, Tchaikovsky, Chopin, Haydn and of course Vivaldi. These are the most famous classical composers of course and all brilliant musical minds. BUT I will not sit here and pretend that anything but the looks dragged me to David Garrett for the first time. Listen I'm a woman, I bleed red, I confess I watched him smile and got all wet. No censorship here. Lol. I came for the looks but stayed for the music, he is incredibly talented and the way he plays is just enchanting.  And before I get into a long rambling worshipping post, here are a few more unshared photos from the concert, firstly because I am DYING without concerts and second because why not. And yes I am aware that the smiley one is blurry. Shit happens, he smiles – I die. 

Perfect aye? Now before I get into the album review, few quick facts about my pretty boy. Musical genius and prodigy of course. German. Record breaking violinist. He held the record for the fastest violinist on the planet, preforming Korsakov's ''Flight of the Bumblebee'' in one minute and 5,26 seconds. Are you aware of how fast that is? 12 or 13 notes per second! Per second you guys! I heard someone topped that record by a second. Not cool man just saying. Not cool. 

David started playing at the age of 4 and plays a Stradivari. I think the violin might be more famous than he is to be honest. Lol. Such beautiful instrument, the craftsmanship, the sound, everything is amazing. They don't make them like that no more, but then again they don't make such masters like Garrett or Stradivari either. Fun fact. David might be the only man my grandmother and I agree on being attractive. Literally she complains over every single man I like, too skinny, too muscly, too tattooed, too blonde, too whatever it is but this one? This one she likes a lot. Lol. Face carved by angels themselves as I always say. That smile you guys. Holy shit I melt. And the style. Sigh. Pull up youtube type in David Garrett Bitter sweet symphony. You're welcome. 

Can I bring back how cutely he learned words in Slovenian language at the show? So if I bring him home for dinner that should be fine with non English speaking family? Right? Oh shut up let a fan girl dream. I can see my boyfriend chewing angrily on a pencil right now on the other side of his Mac. Hah. Think David actually said that Slovenian language is harder than playing Purple rain. Lol. 

I had to chose at the time if I'm seeing Maiden or Garrett, couldn't buy both tickets and my friends are still shocked that I chose David without batting an eye. Well. They don't understand the level of my obsession with this perfect blonde cupcake. 

Right album review, before I get too carried away and end up vividly describing one of my fantasies or fever dreams in which we shower together. It was bloody amazing mind you…

I love all his albums but I think if I had to pick this one might be my favourite. Look at it. Seriously. LOOK.AT.IT. The cover art back and front. The smile you guys. The tattoos. I can't breathe. Now what do you think happens when you put together something this pretty, so gifted and rock music? Absolute freakin perfection of course.

I was actually always all for crossover because it is a way to bring classical music to wider audiences particularly younger generations who lets face it don't have a musical bone in their body to appreciate the perfection and beauty of something like Tchaikovsky's ''Concerto N1''. Playing songs we all know, songs we all love that are on all radio stations all the time, in a new and different and exciting way, might intrigue enough people to actually take a little look at other styles the same musician plays. 

This album was quite highly anticipated. It came out in september 2017. Didn't have to look that up, I remember because I wanted it badly. Lol. Never got one and now that I do, yes currently it's open in the corner of my desk and I might be staring at that back cover. Shut up. Let me be. 

The album obviously contains some of my favourite songs as is but also all the best songs. You've got Phil Collins, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, The Verve,...as well as Concerto N1 and with Davids own unique way of preforming said songs you really see the extraordniary talent.  He once said that each song can be considered as a classical song but the songs that are really melodic and it takes a great deal of effort to turn them into what we can hear on this album. The interpertaion, evolution, discipline, and talent he displays in each and every one of his songs is something to marvel over as is, but he is especially proud of his work on ''Rock Revolution'' and for a good reason. Obviously. The classical interpretation of rock songs is absolutely phenomental. 

You would not believe how much emotion, artistic talent and passion he can pack up in everything he does. It's amazing and he obviously deserves every bit of worshipping he gets. Listen, how many artists can blur the lines completely between Mozart and Metallica? And also how many artists feel completely at home both in classic and in hard rock? And how many artists look quite as gorgeous, perfect, with Prince Charming hair and long lashes and eyes you get lost in like I did just now when I was supposed to write about his playing…playing when his shirt rides a bit higher and you see that tattoo and underwear on full display. Sigh. Is it hot in here or is it me?

Here's the deal if you put this record on, and you listen to his interpreatation, his passion, his moving way in which he delievers his songs, it feels like he's right there with you. The notes just consume you and it's an out of body experience if you allow yourself to really feel the music, to hear each note, to really get lost in the song you listen to. Mindblowing. The type of music that reaches in, touches your soul, rattles your bones, awakens your spirit (awakens something else too, am I right ladies?), I'm not even exeggarating, it really is ALL that. 

Did you know though that there was a cruise ''Stars ar sea David Garrett''? omg. Like it's a boat. At seas. Where he can't run away from crazy fans. Excuse me while all my fantasies run wild. Has anyone ever been at any of these cruises? I honestly never felt the appeal beyond ''getting rid of a body''. Lol. Idk I don't like big boats. We had a sail boat which I loved but these huge cruise ships, packed with people are just not my taste. BUT I may change my mind if one of those passengers would be David. I love the ocean, I love him, it's meant to be right? A romantic ocean sunset and those pretty eyes and hair blowing in the ocean breeze. 

I keep getting carried away damn it. Get it together girl. Listen, here's the point he could be one of many standard violinists with recitals and concertos, classically trained so he never really steps out of his comfort zone, they always did classic so they always will BUT he took the alternative path. Which is besides a way to bring music to new audiences, and a much more creative way to express yourself probably also more profitable. Though I'm quite certain he doesn't care much about that. Y'all seen him right, ripped jeans, scuffy boots (once taped together with silver tape lol) which is oh so sexy but I doubt a typical style for people who care about money much. Speaking of his style, LOVE the bling, some by the Great Frog, the skulls the silver. Beautiful. 

If you like him or not, there's some things you can't deny him, he posseses a level of skill that can't be anything else but respected. He plays violin at a speed that makes your hair stand on end. 13 notes per second. 13! I'm sorry but I literally can not process that.  And then when you think about it, it's one thing to play fast but to play with this technique and feeling? It's completely out of this world. You know how short a single second is? And then rock music? The way he turns any song into a classical version? Amazing. Or simple the instrumental skill and giftedness that he displays in pieces such as ''Carnival of Venice'' or the ''Hungarian Dance No. 5''. That my friends. That is music and a musican who clearly enjoys what he does and actually not enjoys but loves his art with all his heart. And is there anything more attractive than the confidence he displays and a man that has so much passion and also looks like a rock star? I think not. You guys? The eyeliner! I can't breathe.

I do have one complaint or well remark more or less, or suggestion even better. Lol. Since David is German and he plays these amazing rock songs, did a song with Rammstein just recently (Alle tage ist kein Sonntag) I would just love a classical version of a Rammstein or Scorpions song. Imagine his version of ''Wind of change'' or maybe ''Rock you like a hurricane'' I am trying to bite my tongue so hard right now on all possible ideas and scenarios and filthy fantasies ''rock you like a hurricane'' awakens in my mind, because completely random but do you know what his favourite thing to do on a date is? A walk. He loves to take a walk even more in a city like Rome or Paris when it's snowing. Imagine that. The very post under this one I wrote how amazing walking in Rome after rain is. With the glistening pavement and fresh air. Sigh. 

Now to wrap up this post. David is a beautiful man, but lets not just dwell on that. Besides his looks what matters more is his talent and his passion. His music. There are people out there that tend to not take him seriously because of his good looks and general style of clothing and playing and I think those people are just ridiculous. Judging such talent on such superficial things? Proposterous. David brings passion, emotion and a type of musical and artistic insight into everything he does and that should matter much more than his looks. And if that doesn't speak to you about his gift then 16 platinum and 23 gold awards so far should. If you feel like you could give a different artist / music style a chance then you should give one to him, if you can appreciate good music you surely won't be disappointed. Now excuse me while I go feed my fantasies a bit more and watch the Devils violinist again and end this post with the full tracklist of this album, enjoy.

 

A1 ''In the air tonight'' Phil Collins

A2 ''Born in the USA'' Bruce Springsteen

A3 ''Stairway to Heaven'' Led Zeppelin

A4 ''Superstition'' Stevie Wonder

A5 ''Bitter sweet symphony'' The Verve

 

B1 ''Killing in the name'' Rage against the machine

B2 ''Purple rain'' Prince

B3 ''Eye of the tiger'' Survivor

B4 ''Fix you'' Coldplay

C1 ''Concerto N1'' Peter Tchaikovsky

C2 ''The well dressed guitar'' Deep purple

C3 ''You're the inspiration'' Chicago

C4 ''Duel guitar vs. violin'' David Garrett

C5 ''Bohemian Rhapsody'' Queen

 

D1 ''Earth song'' Michael Jackson

D2 ''Baroque reinvention'' David Garrett

D3 ''One moment in time'' Whitney Houston, Albert Hammond

D4 ''Nah neh nah'' Vaya con dios

Wasted & wounded

That's how I feel these days wasted and wounded. More wounded than wasted actually. Wounded in a mental state kinda way.  There's only so much one can do to keep busy, distracted and well trying their best not to go crazy in the current state of the world. How's that working for you guys? I gotta admit my facade of sanity is slowly (or actually quickly) crumbling. As we head into yet another (big shocker huh?) week of lockdown, I'm finding it hard not to go absolutely bat shit crazy.

So while I sit here and contemplate life, begging the man upstairs and the man downstairs to let us travel again soon, here's some fun facts about another European country I absolutely love. Here's the deal, Berlin is it for me. No place cooler than Berlin. Also as a country, Italy. Aint nothing better than Italy. If you got the money, if you got the chance to go to Italy and you don't, you're just plain crazy. Italy is as close to heaven as there is on earth. BUT! Another country (and the first one I'm bolting to as soon as lockdowns and all the other bullshit are over) I love, is Finland. There aint nothing quite like Finland either. See Italy is perfect in their ocean, beaches, architecture, culture, history, food, Italians, climate, lakes, nature,…but Finland. God Finland.

Did you know that Finland has the most heavy metal bands in the world? Like when you think of music, I guess we all think of USA and UK first, which is insane because music as such is so much better in Scandinavia. There are literally more than 50 metal bands for every 100 000 people in Finland. Consider that there are about 5 540 000 people living in Finland, now imagine all the bands. Wild. Another thing that one should consider is that Finland is said to be the worlds happiest country. Obviously I need to move asap. Lacking happiness as I am, maybe the happiest country in the world can fix me. A little. Or a lot. The happiness factor depends on life expectancy, freedom of making life choices (all the big ones), economic strength, FREE education even on university level, no corruption, health care taken care of, and most likely just generally them being different more open minded people. Honestly if there's one thing I just can't take is conservative, dumb, hateful people.

Another fun fact which paints you a vivid picture why Finland is literally the country for me is the fact that Finns are the world's biggest coffee drinkers. Which surprised me and also is that a challenge? Because these days I swear I only run on coffee and fake promises of a better time, which means I am literally increasing the average liters of coffee consumed of my entire country. I actually assumed that if not the world, than Europe, biggest drinkers of coffee would be the French or Italians, but no, there go the Finns, probably staying awake all nights, writing metal songs or getting lost in the woods. So in translation that means 12 kg of coffee per person per year. And yet here I am, being called crazy for drinking five plus cups of coffee per day.

Here is another thing that I just LOVE about Finish people. You know me, in some ways this corona crap is actually a gift from god for me, I am enjoying the social distance and people not breathing down my neck in supermarkets…here's the deal, in Finland saying a quick hello and moving on your way when meeting an acquaintance is perfectly okay. Nobody is pushy, nobody is stopping you for a (mostly unwanted) snoopy conversation. I hate that so much here, always the same ''How's work? When are you getting married? How about children? Did you lose weight?'' blah blah blah. It's rude and none of anyone's business. This is probably why Finns are dealing with corona better because they naturally keep their distance from people in public areas. Can I like say god bless them? I mean is there anything more annoying than people literally brushing against you when there's literally meters of space all around that can be used? Ugh. Respect my personal space why don't you?

How about a couple of totally legit sports that exist in Finland? Not joking even a little bit these are real; wife carrying championship, mosquito hunting competition, mobile phone throwing, swamp football, air guitar. It makes me laugh just thinking about it. Like how cool is this? I don't like sports at all but this…this is just badass. Sports I could find myself enjoying besides ''catching guitar picks at concerts''. Fun fact, do you know what's the first prize for the winner of the wife carrying championship? The wife's weight in beer. Lol.

How about them Northern lights? Is there anything, anything more beautiful than them? I mean yeah truth that during winter there are weeks where the sun just doesn't rise and me being me loving the sun, a southern girl, that's rough, but isn't there something so comforting about the dark? And then those beautiful lights that light up the dark sky. Amazing. Opposite to dark days you also got days during the summer when the sun never sets, also called ''midnight sun'' (I see what you did here Meyer) which to me is far worse than dark days. I mean how do you function, how does your brain function when it's midnight and it's bright as day? Crazy.

All my feministic readers you'll dig this ''Finland is the most gender equal country in the world'' or one of at least. Okay, today that might not mean that much, we like to think that Europe is changing and women have more equal rights etc…BUT Finland was actually the first country in the world that gave women the right to vote. Today living in this privilege of never not having a voting right, we don't even see it as a big deal, but they gave women the right to vote in 1906 and that is definatelly a big deal.

But alright lets get back to music, which is after all the point of this post. Heavy metal actually has cultural significance in Finland. If you think about it, metal as a genre of music is completely misunderstood all over the world. People tend to have snarky comments, look down on metal heads, call them names, call the music ''noise'' etc. That's different in Finland. It's actually one of the most popular types of music and it's played on mainstream radio stations. Here we are force fed Pink, Beyonce, Miley Cyrus, Justin Beaver and the closest to metal we get is Bon Jovi's Bed of roses, not even joking. Cute story the cultural significance of heavy metal in Finland was also noted and pointed out by the US president Barack Obama (don't you dare correct me, I don't count psychopatic clowns as presidents) back in 2016 at the Nordic Summit. Take that haters. And my neighbors, and actually parents, and just about everyone that ever sat in my car with me. Sigh.

Surely one of the most significant names of Finish metal we all know are ''Lordi''. They literally made history when winning the Eurovision song contest in May 2006. It doesn't even matter if you watch the event of how you feel about it, the point is that they were both the first Finish band to win and the first hard rock / heavy metal band to win. That was a breath of fresh air that hasn't repeated yet. It drives me nuts, metal and hard rock being over looked like it is, the Grammys? All the dumb looking for talent shows? Why does a pop star / Bieber wannabe / always win? I mean I know why, but WHY? What's funny here though is that Lordi gained some controversy because people interpreted their music as encouraging Satanism. Lol. Someone from here had to do it I'm sure. In fact it's funny because one of their members is actually a very ''up tight'' Christian (why do I hear Ivar Lothbrok spitting ''Christian'' in my head just now?) who writes church music and their song ''The devil is a loser'' is actually against Satanism. Kinda like that bitching over Motley Crue's ''Shout at the devil'' I imagine at the end of album promo Nikki's eyes were permanently stuck in his skull from rolling them at just about every reporter ''listen it's shouting AT the devil NOT with the devil''.

Some other bands that are from Finland that you just have to check out (but probably already know) are; Amorphis, Children of Bodom, Nightwish, Apocalyptica, HIM (obviously one of my fave though no longer together, also first Finnish band to release an album that becomes golden in US), The 69 eyes, Los Bastardos Finlandeses (my fave name haha), and a ton more, though I tend to be more into less known bands. Smaller bands which are every bit as good.

Which brings us to the (long awaited) point of this post. Weekend music recommendation. 

A band from Finland named after a city in California with the prettiest beaches. Santa Cruz. This ''self titled'' album isn't the first one btw, first one was ''Anthems for the Young 'n Restless'' EP with 6 songs back in 2011, then ''Screaming for Adrenaline'' in 2013, after which ''self titled'' came out in 2015, followed by two more albums. My favourite ''Bad blood rising'' in 2017 and ''Katharsis'' in 2019, more on those on another occassion.

This is a solid hard rock band that formed in 2007 inspired by all of the best bands out there, you know GN'R, Skid Row, Def Leppard, Van Halen,…a band which in 2012 landed a worldwide record deal with Spinefarm records. The same Spinefarm that has Airbourne, Anti flag, Black label society, and Rammstein. Though they're not their artist anymore, this I think is still pretty impressive as was their stage pressence at the time. A year later the band signed with TKO agency which gave them the chance of touring in the UK, Germany and Belgium and they got to tour with Skid Row. Oh my god! You guys! Can you imagine growing up with the posters of your heroes on your walls and then you're suddenly one of them, supporting one of the biggest bands on tour. They opened for a lot of other impressive names such as Sebastian Bach, Lemmy and Bon Jovi. Though since then the band went through several lineup changes I can't lie and say that I prefer anyone over the original one (I'm sorry Pav, I love you).

Alright the record starts with ''Bonafide Heroes'' which is one of the coolest album openings in general. It captures that raw early Skid Row sound, the ''youth gone wild'', the rebellion, the anger. I'm always a fan of songs that start slowly and gently then suddenly deliever a punch, even if this kinda ''punch'' might make you throw your car off the road if you listen to it in the car. Hey! Maybe this wanna be safety is why our mainstream radios only play easy rock and pop. The soft subtle choir type begining and the sudden kick into a furious ''noise'' is exactly what makes this a kickass opening. Imagine not knowing a band and this is the first album you get, first impression? Uh I think fuck yes!

Second song ''Velvet Rope'' continiues with the same angry energy and guitars that litreally melt your face off. What's so unique for me in this band is the incredible gift in the guitar playing area. We're so lacking that lately. More bands that sound (and look) like this. There wouldn't be a happier person than me out there if the 80's as they were came back. Men in tight jeans, leather pants, big hair, hair and glam metal. I'd sell my soul to the devil to see that.

Song three is my favourite on this album ''My Remedy''. I love the line ''I need to flee baby set me free''. I guess we all feel that way sometimes, now more than ever. It's actually the lyrics to this entire song that I love (check it out here click me ). This is like a total stadium anthem kinda song for me, warm summer night, drink in one hand, and the crowd singing this chorus back to the band. Yeah, not that I'll see this scenario any time soon. But this is how it feels, that hair raising moment. I mean I love everything about concerts but you gotta admit there aint nothing like the singer going quiet and the crowd picking up the song. It's amazing. Y'all seen the video for ''My Remedy''? Lol I love it.  All the hair! Also how cute is that priest? Lol.

''6 (66) feet under''. Also the number of feet down I'd like to bury certain people. Do you know I had the number 666 on my old car? Like metalic numbers stuck on the back of the trunk. I miss that car all the time tbh. The song! I love it so much the vibe, the lyrics, the melody, another stadium anthem right there. It's an addictive song and honey I'm on a diet of opiates. No joke. I love this song so much. The drums in it? Bitchin! And that guitar solo? Makes your underwear wet not to be explicit but really, it does. So do the vocals tbh. Man, Archie Cruz can sing.

''Bye Bye Babylon'' that line ''I will paint your fantasies to memories'' please do, anytime, anyday, I'm game. This song is less angry but perfect non the less. As the rest it has great lyrics and just perfect guitars and drums and bass and vocals, obviously all of it is perfect. Those high notes too? My god.

''We are the ones to fall'' follows, probably a more known song, amongst fans anyways. And that ''bloody'' video. Brilliant song. Straight from the get go the scream of ''we are the ones to fall'' the hair flipping the whole setting of the song. Hits just right. I'd literally write more about how great this song is but here I am stuck on the music video repeating for the third time because all that pretty hair, even if they end up beating each other up. I mean, I guess all bands have disagreements sometimes….

''Wasted & wounded''  with a music video made in Tavastia in Helsinki. Tavastia is only the coolest rock music club in Helsinki. Or one of the coolest in Europe tbh. I mean it's not a huge concert hall or anything it's a club for what less than 1000 people but guys it has it's charm. In the 70's the club was rented for weekly jazz, rock and disco gigs. And later in the 80's when it got it's legendary status as a rock club (basically the Viper room) there's been bands such as Dead Kennedys, Nick Cave and Hanoi Rocks. It is also one of the oldest European rock music clubs that are still in use. Right point here, Wasted and wounded is a dope song regardless of where the music video was made.

As it goes on with the ''Let them burn'' which has a live music video which gives you a glimpse of the bands great pressence on stage, nevermind who they want to burn. Lol. Song that follows the vibe of the album, the rest of the songs, angry, rebellious, passionate, perfect. Y'all caught that adorable Archies laughter in this song? At this point my sister would be like ''you have a thing about their singer don't you?''. Not at all. Lol. Not even my type. Lol.

''Vagabonds (sing with me)'' can you say no when they ask so nicely? It's a song that definatelly brings fans together. The ''fireeeee''? I died okay. I just love his voice so much. Another fast paced and loud song. Another one that's obviously pure perfection.

The album closes with ''Can you feel the rain'' which actually starts with sound effects of rain, storm, etc. Very ''Riders on the storm'' by the Doors. Who may as well be another influence for this band. If the rest of the album is angry and fast paced this is calm and gentle, while still a rock song. It's more…curious, soft. It picks up a bit towards the end with the just right ammount of power. Beautiful. I'd love a music video of the band playing it the rain, actually I'd like to be stuck in the rain with the singer. No, I don't have a thing for him at all.

You know what? Actually fuck everything I just said, this album is perfect from the first second to the last. Everything fits, the guitars, the drums, the bass lines and those angelic vocals. Their influences shine through so well, you can hear all those bands in their music, but still this fresh sound for newer generations to love and appreciate. And most definatelly they're a band whos sound is something we need more of. Whatever the future holds for the band as a band and individual members, I'm sure it's nothing but bright. With their talent and their sound? Stadiums and number ones no doubt.

Things I found out through hard times and good I wrote 'em all out in ink and blood, dug deep in my soul and signed my name true, and sent it in my letter to you.

I called this album the only thing that can save 2020 and I was right. I knew he's the only one where I can have high hopes (see what I did there?) and he will not disappoint. First of all Rob DeMartin, can I just say if jealousy would burn, the world would go up in flames. Those B&W photos taken of the man himself in the studio? Brilliant. Amazing. Perfect. Masterpiece. Think I would explode into uniorns and rainbows and glitter if I ever got the chance to set foot in Bosses studio, never mind photograph him. 

Before I even get into this brilliant perfection of an album, can I just say that this is the absolute worse time to release it? It deserves to be celebrated on each and every one of the world stages, arenas, stadiums and fields. There is literally nothing that would uplift the world more than that would right now. For me anyways. i didn't even realise how badly I needed new music from him till I listened to this and counted all my damn lucky stars to have him in my life. To somehow exist the same time as he does, to have him still make music that matters and music that is every bit as amazing as it was in the begining. Yes, I'm looking at you Jon. 

This is the Bosses 20th album and he hasn't lost his magic. Not even a tiny bit of it. And if anything he brought even more magic with this piece. I didn't think it was even possible, I didn't imagine he can do something like he did this time, but he proved me wrong, he proved me what a brilliant mind he really is. (Not that I ever doubted you love.) Imagine a dark room, nothing but this vinyl on, you get lost in the music, lost in some sort of bubble of happiness and a world which seemed to all but disappear outside your front door. The sound on here is something else, it's so pure, so real, it will make you feel like your breaking quarantine rules. I swear with eyes closed and full volume on, I almost felt it, the excitment, the tingle of the live show, heart racing, the emotions. It's everything I wanted and needed. If you're blessed enough to have seen the Boss and E Street live, you'll know what I'm talking about, if not…shit you're missing out on life.

 

What makes this album so special and different is the fact that although Boss and the band have been playing together since 1972, this is the first time the whole thing is recorded, live, together in the same room. Can you imagine that? I mean yeah that's how albums used to be made, no recording bit by bit and then mashing them together, but actually sitting down and playing and what happens happens. Amazing. And god it makes my hair stand up thinking ''oh to be in that room and see history unfold''. There's not a thing I wouldn't give for that to happen. 

Aparently it was Stevie Van Zandt who asked for no demos but instead just sit the band down and play. Can I literally give him a huge hug for that one? Like for real. Dad and I talked once that maybe the months of demos and going back and forth is what takes it out of the songs, it takes a tiny bit of that magic that songs might have had. And it could possbly be true, because recording these albums with all the demos all the adjustments and so on used to take the band months but this one, the ''lets sit down and play and see what gives'' this album took exactly four days to record. Aparently on the fifth day, they sat down and just listened through. Sounds a bit Biblical doesn't it? ''And on the eight day god created…'' (Harley Davidson and Rock'N'Roll if you must know. Lol.) but not far off anyways, I keep telling people if I had a god, it would most definatelly be The Boss.

Do y'all know how this album came to be in the first place? Bruce was preforming the ''Springsteen on Broadway'' which is btw, something I will never forgive myself, my life, Satan and God himself for not seeing. Yes, Broadway is not exactly close I get it, but I mean…if you love something…anyways he was doing that while his friend ''George Theiss'' was battling cancer. He was the only one besides Bruce that remained from a band that existed way before E Street. That band was called Castile and when George passed away that inspired a song, a song that is now on this album called ''The last man standing''.  What actually matters more is the fact that an ''Italian kid'' gave him a guitar, at the back door of the theatre one night which inspired other songs. Can.you.just.imagine.that? To be the person to say ''I gave Boss this guitar that inspired all of the songs on his new album''? Or vice versa really, being given a guitar by the Boss, a guitar that God himself has touched. Excuse me while I die over here or sob for the entire week. 

The album starts with ''One minute you're here'' and it's a line, just one line, the first line he sings, that's enough to have me crying. Sobbing. Bawling. I love this man so much y'all have no idea.  the voice. Holy hell. It's like…a feeling you know. That feeling of a crisp cold autumn morning. When everything around you is frozen, covered in frost, creating unique and beautiful patterns. The air smells fresh and clear and you're wrapped in your favourite leather jacket, worn but comforting. That's what his voice is like, fresh, clear, beautiful, comforting, like warmth surrounding you on a cold morning. 

The song itself talks about loss, well I suppose that's obvious from the title of the song but, loss itself is sort of a red line flowing though the entire album. Not just loss of people, loss of loved ones but loss of hope as well. I mean, it's not that surprising is it? 2020 being as it is. It's relatable. We all lost someone we cared about at one point or another. Bruce has always been the one talking about sadness, grief, tragedy. I think he found his comfort in the thematics, letting it out on paper, letting it out in music instead of letting it consume him. Brilliant really. I think that's what it is, that's what I love so much about him. Life is terrible, and everything sucks but I can count on him to be there to say it will all be okay in the end. Maybe it isn't. Maybe it wont be, but it's a hell of a lot easier with him around. 

Second song is ''Letter to you'' the title track. I doubt I could find the words to describe how in love with this song I am. The voice on that ''I took all the sunshine and rain, all my happiness and all my pain''. Can I just melt into space? Please? Holy perfection. It's a classic Springsteen song, music and lyrics being exactly what you'd expect from him. Old school rock anthem, a stadium hit. With the best music, that rambling, groovy, rock melody we know and love and the perfect raspy voice with a message of hope. You know, shit's fucked up but hell it's worth trying and it's worth holding on. And I just love how I can feel both Roy Orbison and Bob Dylan in this song. Which is more of a Deja vu if anything. Boss himself said that they as well as  Phil Spector influenced his album ''Born to run''. 

Things go on with ''Burnin' Train''. The drumming in the begining! That beat. I love it so much. That's the real fire here. Have you noticed how often there's things on fire in his songs? Things burning? ''I'm on fire'' the less known ''Fire'' which I love so much more actually. He played it live in Milano on the River tour due to a fan sign request. If you're that fan and reading this now, I love you and I wish you nothing but good things. 

''Janey needs a shooter'' . Lots of Janeys no? I'm not jealous shut up. This is not a new song mind you, it's been recorded and re recorded a couple of times. I think it was actually written in 1973. I'm not sure about that though. I know though it was supposed to be on several albums through the 70's but it never made the cut. I wonder why now. Maybe it was just the right time. It's a very Bob Dylan kinda song.  Maybe that's what made Columbia see him as the ''new Dylan''. Yeah no thank you. I mean I love Dylan but seriously no. 

I heard some reviews saying that ''Letter to you'' due to the song ''Last man standing'' could be a goodbye note. Who ever said that…no, I shouldn't. I will censor myself to ''I hope you spill your coffee every Monday morning''. I don't even want to think about such a thing, much less imagine it happen. Listen I get it, nobody lives forever, and some artists should retire a long while ago coughBonJovicough but just don't. As I wrote above ''Last man standing'' is about being the only remaining member of the old band.  It must weigh heavily on his mind sometimes. I mean he's so open and outspoken about his depression and his songs as well are so open and honest. Despite him being 71 now and lets be honest more fit than I am, I know it makes you stop and think, shit I'm the only one left. Must be rough at times. This song is also the first one we hear the amazing little Clemons on the saxophone. Any Boss fan will know how missed Clarence is, by us and mostly by the man himself. Jake Clemons had real big shoes to fill and I think he did just that brilliantly. It's impressing and amazing how hauntingly alike the sound is to Clarence. 

''Power of prayer'' comes next. While my first thought would be that yes people probably do find the power in their prayers. Or comfort at least. This song seems quite nostalgic to me and I do love that we get to hear more of Clemons in it. It aint easy you know. Playing the saxophone. My dad did it. And quite brilliantly may I add. I tried several times. Holy hell. Nearly blew my lungs out, nothing but mad respect for those who do it for ''a few'' hours on stage. Wild. Did you hear how Jake came to the band anyway? He didn't get in just because he's a Clemons mind you, he had to audition just like anyone else would and he has the balls to come in saying ''I only sorta know a few songs''. Oh my god. You got balls of steel kid. I'd never had the nerve to say that to the Boss, also, hm I kinda only know all of the songs by heart. 

Are we going to guess who the ''House of a thousand guitars'' refers with the ''the criminal clown has stolen the throne, he steals what he can never own''. Yeah I think we all know. He understands the search of inspiration or say the lack of it ''here the bitter and the bored, wake in search of the lost chord''. I doubt he ever struggled with writers block, I doubt he ever came to a point where he had nothing to say or didn't know how to say it but the solidarity with the writers who do is just heartwarming and exactly the kinda thing Bruce would do. What I really love about this song is that line ''so wake and shake off your troubles my friend, we'll go where the music never ends, from the stadiums to the small town bars, we'll light up the house of a thousand guitars''. It's comforting. It almost feels as if he's standing next to you with a hand on your shoulder or a nice warm hug. Hell, maybe this hell will end and we'll smile looking back at it one day when everything is okay again. You know what I mean? No matter how fucked up the world is, you need to remain hopeful. I'm the last person to say that I know but hell I aint losing hope of hearing these songs live someday soon. Or better sob to these songs someday soon. Let's be serious I'll turn into a freaking fountain at the first chord of ''One minute you're here''. 

This album is made to make you forget the troubles for a little bit. It's a little bubble of perfect happiness. And though I expected a more political album from the Boss, kinda a second coming to ''Wrecking ball'' you know? I didn't know this was actually exactly what I needed. Politics is mentioned only briefly in the song ''Rainmaker''. It's an obvious anti Trump song without saying so. It's not a cheap ridiculous line as direct as a ''fuck Trump'' (even if that would of been just fine too) but ''sometimes folks need to believe in something so bad, so bad, so bad''. No need to guess what or who this is about. Boss is not like that, he will not tell you what to do or how to think, he's telling you TO think. To open your eyes and your mind. I love this song, not only the message but jesus the way it starts slow and slowly builds up and that little growl you hear, amazing. 

''If I was the priest''…you best believe I'd be in church every damn day. Sorry. Couldn't help myself. Close your eyes and listen to this song. You can just hear a western movie, he's the priest, Jesus is a sheriff. I think the song is far deeper then it seems in the first listen through. It's about lines being slightly blurry between good and bad, failure and success. If you listen to the begining ''there's a light on younder mountain and it's calling me to shine, there's a girl over by the water fountain asking to be mine.'' (jesus, always, all you gotta do is ask. Lol) to me, that suggests that happiness is near, all you have to do is reach out and grab it but life will always pull you down. You know what I mean? The song ends where it starts which symbolises the ballance between good and bad that much more and come to think of it what you're saying here is giving up happiness for some familiar comfort and have you ever thought how the very things that define happiness are the things a priest must give up? And a priest giving those things up is considered good. Giving up good things in life is considered good. So what is good anyways? Point is. Bruce is not a fan of religion and he makes this very clear once again in this song where he pretty much described the hypocrisy that is the Catholic church. 

How about them ''Ghosts'' you guys? A love letter to rock'n'roll. And I tell you now, when the world is normal again, and concerts are a thing, this is going to be a stadium anthem and no doubt a fan favourite live. Obviously the song is also about those we lost, as I said loss is a prominent key on this album. No doubt Clarence was strongly on his mind when writing this one. He said that this song is about ''beauty and joy of being in a band and the pain of losing one another to illness and time. Ghosts tries to speak to the spirit of the music itself, something none of us owns but can only discover and share together''.  A true genius ladies and gentlemen.  It starts on these classic E Street band melodies we know and love like again in ''Born to run'' or say ''Darkness on the edge of town'' but then it builds up with this new different kind of harmony, one that you would for sure sing along no scream along on a life show. It gives me goosebumps all over you guys. Yes ALL over. 

''Song for orphans'' is another one that was revived so to say. It's been written in the 70's and actually he preformed it in 2005. I'm not sure if it's the same version as it is right now but the one on this album is pretty much perfect. It has a Dylanish vibe and also a tiny bit of Tom Petty. What's not to love obviously. 

The album ends with ''I'll see you in my dreams'' and let me just say something first. There has never been a better ending to any album ever. Ever. That drawl. Those lyrics. Those feelings. I can't breathe. Maybe that much more because there's someone who I can only see in my dreams too. Maybe once you understand the songs pass enjoying the melody, maybe thats when they hit harder, hurt more, maybe that's when you love them more. ''I'll see you in my dreams'' is a beautiful perfectly written and structured song, sang with so much emotion, sincerity and mostly depth. It's comforting like the rest of the album is, but comforting in a different way, as in death is not the end and maybe you do get to see those you love and lost in your dreams.  What matters more is that the Church of E street is strong and is going to go strong. This is not the end you guys. Boss made it clear this time is the time of reflection not conclusion and there's so much more music to come. Sometimes I swear when life gets so hard that's the only reason to keep going. For me I mean. The only reason to have more hope and to be strong and just get through the day, week, month. 

Honestly ''Letter to you'' is exactly what we needed right now, hope and uplift instead of doom and gloom (yes Bon Jovi looking at you again). It's the Boss and it's the E street at it's rawest and actually most perfect state. I love every single second of this album. Like I predicted that it's going to be perfect and that it's going to be the only highlight of 2020, I was right. I feel blessed to have him to fall back on. I know putting my hopes into him wont disappoint like so many others did. (no not looking at Bon Jovi this time. Well partly, but others as well). Can we also take a moment for that album cover, front and back. I mean I hate snow but I might start liking it now. And the booklet with those few transparent pages? Don't even get me started on that etched vinyl, no I aint never seen that before, or actually knew it can be done and holy shit is it perfect? Yes. All of it. Together. Perfection. A true nod to the perfection that is music. A beautiful and carefully put together package. 

You've obviously noticed through this love letter that I am absolutely in love with the man. And several other posts, which through the years there's been plenty of. The Boss is like Batman, he comes when called upon, he comes when we need him most. Take a look over the past 20 years, him and the E Street came together each time we needed them most. Each time their voice, their music gave us more purpose. ''The Rising'' as a reaction to 9/11. ''Wrecking ball'' still one of the best and practically the angriest albums I own and love, a reaction to the people and the ''bastards'' responsible for the financial crisis in 2007. Bruce's music is driven by passion for the music but also by the passion to stir up something in his fans. His audience. Food for thought I'd say. Let's be honest, ''Letter to you'' and it's release is no accident or coincident. Y'all heard that Boss is moving to Australia if Trump gets a second term (babe, should you ever read this, how about Europe instead? I mean I don't want the ginger psycho to win, but should the worst happen…think about Italy aye?), and given how you don't need to think too hard who the ''Rainmaker'' is about…as an addition this album has a black and white movie companion available on Apple TV. It shows his home studio as a museum of sorts, old guitars and old faded pictures littering the walls. All I can think about though is ''heaven''. Heaven right there. I could get lost in the studio for hours. I'd feel blessed just to stroke the strings that gave us so many amazing melodies…sigh. Let a girl dream okay?

I believe ''Letter to you'' is a love letter to fans, love letter to all of us. A letter connecting the past and present. A letter connecting us. A beautiful ode from a beautiful poet. And every second is a magical experience. Do yourself a favor, turn down the lights, put it on loud, and just enjoy. 

Wild, wild horses couldn't drag me away.

There's a song by Niall Horan titled ''Put a little love on me''. And there's a line in that song ''I look around as my heart is collapsing, 'cause you're the only one I need, to put a little love on me.'' I thought that was beautiful. The way it's sung with emotion, the words...I'm not a fan of his music, but when a song is good...I can admit that even if it is by Justin Bieber. Ha no not really, him never, though let's be serious we all got our guilty pleasures and that's okay. All I'm saying ''Put a little love on me'' is a beautiful song, I listened to it on my headphones on reply along with Styles' ''Falling'' in the middle of the night and honestly it took a little strength to keep the tears at bay. Not because of the songs but because of the emotions they brought up. Isn't that what good music is supposed to do? Make you feel…

Don't worry though, this week it's business as usual, with an album that someone I love very much loves most. We're both huge fans of this band and this album so here goes…(I might love the cover most just to fuck around with the picture, there's been a lot of ''PG18'' pics on my phone with this cover and also Motley Crues cover. I obviously prefer Vince Neil's crotch over Joe Dallesandro).

You can't actually expect me to look at the title ''Sticky Fingers'' and not think of dirty things straight away? Which is exactly what they wanted anyways. I mean a cover with male genitalia. Literal rock n roll symbol I'd say. The back part aint bad either though I've yet to see a sexier rocker's butt than Springsteen. Tight. Lol. Back to the ''famous crotch'', I mentioned above the man behind the picture, Joe Dallesandro. Can y'all imagine that? Instead of the ''shot heard around the world'' it's the ''bulge seen around the world''. I mean we never saw his face but his dick got some serious fame. That much more making it shot by Andy Warhol. Wild.

This album was released in April 1971, I can literally hear my mother in my head just now going on about how I only love old cars, old men and old music. Makes my eyes roll all the way back into my skull. First off not my fucking fault new music and cars suck and also, y'all seen Nikki Sixx right? Fucking stud. I get off topic easy when it's about classic rock stars yes. Obviously.

While we're on this ''stud'' topic. I've seen the Stones in 2014, ironically in just 4 days it's going to be 6 years since I saw them. My dad once said ''days are long but years are short'', I never understood that better than I do now. I haven't written about this concert in detail on my other blog like I do now. Only shared some pictures. But shit it was an amazing concert. I mean not my favourite, that throne happens to belong to someone else, but this concert? Close second. Man, the energy, the music, the crowd, the fact that they have someone announce them…all of it is beyond perfect. And the fact that I the idiot am walking around the stadium foolishly thinking I'll get to ''randomly bump into Mick Jagger like he's some local wanna be singing in a bar'' and then it actually happens? Seriously, there I am walking around, a huge Mercedes with tinted windows pulls up, window down, Mick Jagger with a huge fucking smile sitting inside, vaving at fans. Did I happen to react? Smile back? Anything? Fuck no. Got a severe case of being completely star struck and frozen solid. You guys! It was Mick fucking Jagger. The best part just might be though that I call home telling family what happened and all I get is ''so? Just some old dude who cares''. I live with animals I swear.

Right back to the stud thing. Mick on stage is nothing if not sexy as hell. He has this energy, this sex appeal, there's something about him that is just to die for. I'm not joking, the man is hot. No I don't give a flying fuck about how old he is. Some guys just got IT. I'm telling you guys this is something everyone should put on their bucket list and do once ''see the Stones live'', let's face it they will outlive all of us (thank god, a world without Stones is not a world I want to live in). Hoping I get a chance to see them again too, was going to with dad, some years ago, that never happened unfortunally.

So Sticky fingers is the ninth studio album by the Stones and first release of their own ''Rolling Stones Records'' label. The album is considered as one of the Stones' best albums, it went triple platinum in US and contains the songs we all know and love such as ''Brown sugar'' and ''Wild horses'' which just so happens to be my personally favourite song by the Stones, it's just so reasuringly sad and comforting at the same time.  The original cover though was really innovative for the time, showing a sexually suggestive picture of a guy in tight jeans (as tight as I wish all men wore tbh) with a zipper that yes it does in fact work. Opening it will reveal a pair of white underwear lol. Later copies though removed the zipper and just have the picture due to the damage done to the vinyl by the zipper (try storing that with your other records) and the expense itself of producing the actual cover.

Y'all know that the Franco regime in Spain actually censored this cover and replaced it by John Pasche and Phil Judes' tacky (sorry guys but it really is) cover with some ''can of fingers'' design.  Also in the 90's in Russia the cover seemed to be quite close to the original only the jeans were coloured, there's a Soviet Army belt buckle and I'm quite certain that the model is female. Come to think of it, I could use a copy of that. Must be badass.

I would easy call this album their peak, best work, whatever you want to call it. They were always called the ''world's greatest rock n roll band'' and on this album it's quite obvious why. I mean they're legends after all but this album shows why.

The record kicks off with ''Brown sugar'' which has this blues – rock feel to it. There's a lot of this blues, RNB, country feel to their music. I think the Stones always were somehow fascinated with American music. You can hear that here so well the blues tone in Brown Sugar, the country feel in Wild horses, the honky tonk (not woman lol) Dead flowers, Sticky fingers feels like a love letter or an ode to that kinda music.

Ironically the album was commercially a huge hit, but reviews were not as hot. New york times actually wrote if they were still ''relevant''. I guess it's how it always is bands fail to meet everyone's expectations. There's always some asshole being the critic. The fans are never happy either so pleasing everyone is damn hard work.

What I love about this album is actually the view into the amazing range of talent as a soul singer that is or better can be Mick Jagger. Like take a look at ''I got the blues''. Amazing. The voice, Watt's drumming, sweet perfection. And while ''Wild horses'' might give that honky tonk piano vibe the vocals are nothing but straight up blues music. Maybe that's why it's sad and reassuring at the same time. Blues is such amazing music, not just because without it there'd be no music now, but really, it's beautiful soulful music, one just has to understand it.

I think this album is actually amazing, the only thing about it that I hate is that it ends. It's wild, it's soulfull, it's packed with confidence and energy and it honestly feels like a great fuck, hitting all those sweet spots along the way. I'm not joking right now, I mean sex is great but did you even listen to Sticky fingers before?

This doesn't read as a review I'm aware, my head is probably too crowded with all the bullshit I'm trying to process to even focus on the task at hand. Take this as a long instagram picture title under a photo of a record I love.  I'll have to come back and rewrite at some point but untill then, put it on, play it, get lost in it, like I love to, because so help me jesus nothing hits quite as good as those ''Wild horses''. There's a lot of bands and a lot of albums out there but just one is ''Sticky fingers''.