Not every long blog post I plan to write pans out. Usually, when I monitor radio stations with the intention of writing an FM dial scan highlights or Online radio sampler highlights post, I publish the end result. This morning has been one of the rare times when I didn't hear enough music to recommend. Here are the reasons I rejected various songs:
- There's a hit from the '80s that's often praised as one of the artist's best works. While I don't dislike it, I'm largely indifferent to it and didn't want to sit through the full album version of it to see what the station played next.
- An indie rock track tested my patience with too aimless saxophone squawking that reminded me of Fear's "New York's Alright If You Like Saxophones."
- In the early '60s, a well-known jazz saxophonist recorded the only version I've liked of a particular tune. Not having to gnash my teeth at overly theatrical singers warbling cloying lyrics makes me appreciate the melody in a way I don't otherwise. I've already mentioned it on this blog, however, and have said all I need to say about it.
- Hearing a classic country station start to play one of the better country crossover vocalists made me think, "This tune might have potential." As I listened more, I thought, "I still like her voice, but these lyrics are rather generic, and this melody is bland."
- Maybe it's churlish to admonish "Waltzing Matilda," but I thought, "I'm sure this artist is singing it to the best of his ability, but the backing vocals make it sound too precious."
- My ears perked up when I heard some good, fast early folk-style guitar playing. I enjoyed the first minute and change until the vocals came in. To my chagrin, I thought, "The vocalist clearly has the right attitude. Unfortunately, she's noticeably off-key."
While none of the songs I heard were completely wretched, I didn't want to write, "Here are some tunes I recommend tepidly. Most of them made a C or C+ impression on me."
I'll monitor stations again soon--perhaps tomorrow, next week, or next month. Maybe I'll have better luck next time--and, if I don't, I'll have a fallback post ready to go.
