This is a song that I am impressed by today. Here you have a band that is gutsy enough to call themselves "Violent Femmes." That alone ought to count for something (and it does--it counts for the reason some people won't listen to them). But trust me when I tell you that this song is worth listening to if you are a musician or clever-lyric-lover.
This "folk punk" band is made up of 3 players: a Guitar/Vocalist, a Bassist, and a "Drummer." I don't say "Drummer" as a way of insulting a psuedo-talented ragamuffin, but as a way of informing you of his unique contribution to this band. He isn't a "drummer" in the conventional sit-down sense. This drummer stands during performances. He also doesn't play a regular kit. His set includes only a snare drum, high hat, and ground tom. In addition, he often uses brushes instead of wooden sticks.
The song is the perfect anthem for the angry and revengeful brokenhearted. If you are feeling as if you'd like to tell someone to "Kiss Off," simply listening to this song might be a more diplomatic response. For me, the lyrical highlight of the song is the singer's list of 10 reasons so-and-so can "kiss off."
"I take 1 1 1 cause you left me and
2 2 2 for my family and
3 3 3 for my heartache and
4 4 4 for my headaches and
5 5 5 for my lonely and
6 6 6 for my sorrow and
7 7 for no tomorrow and
8 8 I forget what 8 was for and
9 9 9 for a lost God and
10 10 10 10 is for everything"
(full song lyrics can be found here )
The escalating vocal line during this portion of the song are what really gives it the extra punch in the lip.
The guitar in the song has a great jangly, clean tone. It sounds much like the tone used in surf music. The solo in the middle is of particular interest. It's a different kind of solo--not focusing on technique as much as aesthetics. During it the guitar is essentially the one saying: "Kiss Off!"
Quite possibly my favorite aspect of the song is the bass. This bassist (Brian Ritchie) has a wicked quick wrist on the picking hand. The flying bass notes during the solo are a real treat! His rockabilly-esque technique has always been a favorite facet of this unique group.
In short, find the song somewhere and give it a listen. You may, or may not, be glad you did.
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2 comments:
Excellent review, sir. I am not familiar with much Violent Femmes, but I do love that song.
This has nothing to do with your blog, yet I thought it important to show you that there are leprechauns in real life, and one of them coaches one of my favorite soccer teams: Celtic FC.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominionpost/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/strachan.jpg
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