The Useless Critic 2.0

I'm impressed by the fact Keira Knightley - gorgeous, gracefully aloof, talented - can sing! Yesterday, while working, I listened to the "Begin Again" soundtrack. As expected, it's catchy and well-done. That's not a huge surprise, though, since the team behind "Begin Again" is the team behind 2007's beloved "Once" (and Glen Hansard is partially responsible for songwriting duties.)   And from what I've read of "Begin Again," it's essentially a repurposed "Once" set across the Atlantic. With Adam Levine (bleh.) So, that aside, the film is getting decent reviews and I'll probably see it at some point. However, Keira Knightley has been getting some glowing feedback for her vocal chops in the movie.   This was the biggest prompt in me seeking the soundtrack out on Spotify. Even Adam Levine - bleh , again - has some shining moments. I die. At first, Keira's voice takes some getting used to...

Do you like My Morning Jacket? If not, LISTEN TO THEM. They are a fantastic fucking band and I am constantly surprised at how much I love them and just want to hug Jim James' big bear body for making such great albums. I first got into them after I got into Monsters of Folk (a band Jim James was a part of along with M. Ward, Mike Mogis and Conor Oberst), and now I consider them one of my favorite bands. It just suxxx that I missed them in LA last week. How could I do this to myself???? Here they are performing on Conan last week. They are performing my favorite track from their amazing new album, Circuital . Did I spell that right? Oh well. I should care. But anyway. Here it is: It helps that Adam Levine and Nick Kroll are on the show, too. BUT WAIT. What's that? Take a look at the awesome backing singers. I spy The Watson Twins. And look at that!!! Becky Stark from Lavender Diamond and The Living Sisters!! These are also all bands/groups you should definitely check out ...