The Useless Critic 2.0

Remember Klaxons? They had a beautiful moment in the hubbub of mid-00s alt rock, enjoying their zenith of fame at the same time as bands like Arctic Monkeys were jumping on to the scene. They were really a fun, high-energy band. Check out "Golden Skans" if you haven't listened to it in like a decade.  Anyway, James Righton is about to release a solo record as we entered a new decade. And it's right chill - a departure from his work with the Klaxons, but not so much that it is unrecognizable. You can have a listen on the Soundcloud embed below: His debut solo album "The Performer" will be out this March 20th. Shortly thereafter, he's expected to play a live show (the 25th) at Bethnal Green Working Men's Club in London.  Also, this is my last post of the decade. 😎 See you in the New Year with the rest of my best of the decade list. (P.S. "Norman Fucking Rockwell" rules) 

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...

-newspapering, obviously. -meeting Dennis Haskins/Mr. Belding/ SAVED BY THE BELL !!!! -living my life day by day so I do not go insane! (this sounds like an Oprah tip) -injuring Cate Blanchett on the set of all her movies. -anticipating releases by Annie, Kings of Convenience, Nouvelle Vague, among OTHERS! -getting ready to see THE BOOKS on my brother's birthday (like he cares :P) -waiting for books to come in the mail (the real, paper kind). -adjusting to life in Edinboro. :/ I'll have better entries for the weekend. Until then, I leave you in capable hands. p.s. there's this really awesome cover by the Klaxons of "No Diggity" floating around on the blogosophere. locate it if you get the chance! - Brittany