profiling and celebrating the music of some of the most talented and underrated alternative rock artists. Particularly a focus on 90s alternative rock and british pop/ alternative rock
Oasis have loud songs that rock and kick ass. Wonderwall does so with more subtly. Welcome! Today let's enjoy Wonderwall, a track from the album most refer to as Oasis Morning Glory. Let's start with the alternative Music Video.
The alternate version has only one camera shot. Watch Oasis Wonderwall. You can watch the main version by Googling Oasis Wonderwall. Or if the internet goes black I fear you may be out of luck watching Wondewall video. As far as I know (correct me if I am wrong) no DVD features the music video. If you are looking for extras besides the album you may want to check out
Are you mad for it? For a DVD that features mostly Definitely Maybe but also an intense version of Some Might Say then look into
CD singles are almost extinct now. But are occasionally found at places like Newbury Comics. You may want to check through the amazon links above. Because who knows they may be valuable collectibles in the future.
General Knowledge
In the Oasis Wonderwall Music video someone (does anybody know who?) is playing the cello throughout the video but the sound is a mellotron tape-playback keyboard. (Songfact) The Oasis members are cooly reading the newspaper. Noel goes from a bright blue guitar to a bright green guitar. And only the Oasis members and producer Nigel Dick know the reason for featuring clowns that puppeteer and juggle. Don't forget the cowboys. The dart playing is Oasis having fun. The steady beat makes this song rock. Although in a more subtle way.
Another fact is that at live shows Noel plays his acoustic guitar on a Fender Telecaster. It's one of the few songs where he uses a Fender guitar rather than a Gibson.
Finally, and most enjoyably at the very end of Oasis Wonderwall, the intro to "Supersonic" can be faintly heard on acoustic guitar. (Songfact)
NME has a great article about interesting oasis facts. The interesting facts I didn't mention were the song was played for a teen Leah Betts who died taking ecstasy in 1995. Oasis Wonderwall is the soundtrack to a short but moving anti-drug video showing Leah's last hours. Oasis had allowed the song to be used for this but had declined the British Army permission to use Wonderwall in recruitment videos.
Oasis Wonderwall's title and concept came from the 1968 film Wonderwall- from Pyschedelia to Surrealism, starring Jane Birkin. She lives next door to a man who becomes fascinated with her,so he slowly makes holes in his wall so he can watch her through it. This is the "Wonderwall." (song facts)George Harrison provided the soundtrack to the movie, Wonderwall Music. You can learn more about Harrison's contribution, or about the Beatles in general through The Rough Guide to the Beatles. Use the link below to connect to the book.
Start your holiday shopping through this amazon link. Shop amazon.
Musicality
During the two weeks it took to record What's The Story Morning Glory, Wonderwall was produced in a just half a day. Producer Owen Morris and Noel Gallagher brick-walled the song. They pushed the loudness of the CD to the limit without reducing sound quality. Oasis with What's The Story Morning Glory effectively won the loudness war for having one of the loudest cds in 1995. In perspective, the Guns N Roses Appetite for Destruction was -15db. Oasis operated at a louder -8dbfs. So Rock out! This album can be heard in the car or above any distracting noises at the British pubs, the UK favored it. (Oasis Loudest band paragraphs 21 and 22) Oasis's What's the Story Morning Glory can be used as white noise - Just don't tell Noel or Liam I said this. Buy and enjoy!
Popularity This was the first single Oasis released in the US. Sadly it is Oasis's biggest hit in this country. (Carlos Arredondo, Songfacts). You can also check out this well-thought piece on Oasis Wonderwall's Popularity.However, I assess the band as Noel does. A band that does kick-ass rock n roll songs. So Wonderwall rocks the least on the What's the Story Morning Glory album, and fans in the US who only know Wonderwall are missing out.
Noel's take I can't agree with Noel anymore on the following point. Noel is not that enamoured by Wonderwall: "Outside of England, it's the one song we're famous for all over the world, and it annoys the fuck out of me. It's not a fucking rock'n'roll tune. There's quite a vulnerable statement to it. When people come up to me and say it's one of the greatest tunes ever written, I think, 'fucking hell, have you heard 'Live Forever'?" (Read more at NME)
Noel Gallagher says "Wonderwall" describes "an imaginary friend who's gonna come and save you from yourself". It is not about his ex-wife Meg Matthews as commonly thought (Oasis Noel Gallagher Interview)
But you are smart to think Wonderwall is a love song. According to Oasis book 1 and Oasis Book 2 Noel originally wrote the song (released in October 1995) for his then wife Meg Matthews. Noel told Select magazine at the time: "It's about my girlfriend. She was out of work, and that, a bit down on her luck, so it's just saying, 'Cheer up and fucking get on with it."And it wasn't until they divorced ( in 2001) that Noel claimed the song was about an imaginary friend. So if you have a female of interest, play this song for them. If not play it for your imaginary friend. It's all good.
According to Noel, US songwriter Ryan Adams, who turned the track into an acoustic slow-burn on a 2004 EP, did a better job with 'Wonderwall' than Oasis ever did. The guitarist told an audience in 2009 he'd recently seen him cover the song live: "Afterwards, I told him, 'You can have that song, man, because we could never quite get it right." (Read more at NME)
Liam's Take You gotta love Liam Gallagher's explanation of the song: "A wonderwall can be anything. It's just a beautiful world. It's like looking for that bus ticke, and you're trying to fucking find it, that bastard, and you finally find it and you pull it out, 'Fucking mega, that is me wonderwall." (Read more at NME) Overall, Liam never liked the song and still doesn't. When Noel first played Wonderwall with a different bass line at rehearsal, Liam shouted, "What do you think you're doing, dickhead? Oasis aren't a funk band."19 years later in 2014 Liam says, "Everytime I have to sing Wonderwall I want to gag." (Read more at NME)
Lyric analyzation Oasis Wonderwall lyrics Whether the song is about love or an imaginary friend, some of the lyrics relate to basic struggles to fix or to simply enter a relationship:
I don't believe anybody feels the way I do about you now
And
There are many things that I would like to say to you but I don't know how
Simply reading these lyrics doesn't possess the same magic as hearing Liam Gallagher bend lines and notes over a steady guitar beat. A fun and poignant song that pleads for your love interest to hear you. Buy the album and read the lyrics off the booklet. You can only read the Interesting message at the end of booklet by buying it.
Bill's Take (Bill is lead musician in John Guyette Experiment)
For Bill the song brings Nostalgia: "Reminds me of driving through Boston as a kid. A good college rock song. The cool rhythm guitar makes the song. Bill and his sister would sing a long when the song came on. A simple song but there is nothing like it. Liam's voice made him feel like he was walking down a sidewalk in the city. He had a feeling of independence.
Triumph
Musically Wonderwall Triumphs. Bassist Alex James from their main rival Blur says, "he wishes he had written Wonderwall and that Liam has a great voice. And guitarist The Edge from the obnoxious band U2 (they were always pushed in my face, Bono never stops preaching in a holier than thou way) says, "he wishes he had written Wonderwall. But forget those nincompoops, the main reason Oasis Wonderwall and What's The Story Morning Glory as a whole triumphs is that the music is loud. Loud music kicks ass and rocks you onto better things. I hope you get the chance to feel superior to those snooty people at your office. Or for whatever work environment you work long and hard for little pay.
Perhaps you have never had the chance to hear the electric version of Wonderwall. No problem, you can buy it on this website. I remember I had to search outside of main online retailers like amazon to find it. The reason I enjoyed it is because of the loud long songs. Think about the fact, that in 1997 Oasis was able to play all the songs live that made them great. They play songs from Definitely Maybe, Morning Glory, Masterplan, and of course Be Here Now. My favorite Oasis concert. Cheers.
I will focus on tracks other than Morning Glory and Roll With It that I discussed in the other article.
My Listening
Hello
based on Gary Glitter's "Hello Hello I"m back again." He receives 1 million in royalties because the album What's the story morning glory was so popular worldwide.
Still The Oasis track is creative. A great album opener. Particularly love the sadder sounding
It's never gonna be the same
cuz the years are falling apart like the rain . .
I think if you make a mistake in offending someone deeply. Things will never be the same between you and He or She.
But things return to normal when reintroduced with familiarity. For Oasis this is making rocking albums. Welcome back 1995 Oasis!
Noel's take
Paraphrasing Noel to Select magazine, he says about the song: he doesn't care about the girl anymore. things will never be the same with them again. It was made at the end of the Definitely Maybe sessions. And it was about being in a rock band. It's good to be back making records." http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=6657
Oasis is always experimenting and improving. Their album What's The Story Morning Glory almost feels like one jam with the swamp songs (tracks 6 and 11) as well as the Wonderwall riffs that are found in the beginning of Hello before the track starts rocking. The wonderwall riff is also at the end of champagne supernova.
The song just rocks after the wonderwall intro. That's cliche I know, but I try to say that about songs that do rock. Once you hear the beat you will understand.
The lyrics about life is a game we play get you in a playful, happy mood. Much more to come!
In 1995, British rock bands Oasis and Blur battled each other for domination. They competed for sales of their singles released: Oasis Roll With It lost out to Blur's Country House. While Country House may have more interesting musicianship. You can understand and enjoy Liam's vocals much better. Therefore, without effort you get the fun relationship vibe of Roll With It.
I was going to say there really isn't anything immoral about the music on Oasis's 1995 album What's the Story Morning Glory. But then I remembered Morning Glory is partly based on coming out of a coke habit.- or embracing it.
All your dreams are made when you are chained to the mirror with the razor blade Today is the day all the world will see
But the lyrics immediately following those paint pleasant imagery.
Another sunny afternoon walking to the sound of my favorite tune Tomorrow doesn't know what it doesn't know too soon.
Overall the music doesn't have any swearing. Just pure rock n roll. Perfect for the people that want to have a beautiful spirit (ie. great mood) but want the high energy of rock n roll. The watery guitars in Morning Glory are produced with a wah-wah pedal. One of my favorite sounding instruments. Basically you put on Oasis What is the Story Morning Glory and you have a good time.
The street featured on the sleeve artwork is Berwick Street in London, (district) W1. (thanks, Bertrand - Paris, France)
I cannot verify this, but the name What's the story Morning Glory came partly from Noel's friend calling up and asking "what's the story" and "Morning Glory" either referring to the flower or morning wood. lol. Since I feel like a zilch for not finding that article. I dug up an interesting read about producer Owen Morris' experience with producing this album. Oasis Producer Owen Morris
Oasis What's The Story Morning Glory is great background music for studying for a test or for pleasure reading. However, I don't recommend this music to sleep to. Oasis' What's the story Morning Glory rocks too hard for that. If Hey Now doesn't wake you, Some Might Say certainly will.
My favorite review on the album comes from Amazon. The editorial review apparently no longer exists. But the review sold me on getting the album because it described Oasis as being painfully self-conscious throughout the album. And referred to some songs as musical candy. I had been used to listening to music as serious as Nirvana. But wanted the tone of my music to be more upbeat and positive. Oasis seemed like the logical progression. Some sad sounding songs but the music and lyrics are always upbeat. Therefore, the review described the music as being pleasurable for me to listen to. And listening to the samples, especially songs like Hello and Champagne Supernova made me feel downright cool.
Overall, Oasis' What The Story Morning Glory can give you a glorious morning if you listen to the CD on your way to work. I failed to focus on many songs and features of the album that make it great. So I will pick up where I left off next time.
With destruction of my car. Having to go to work each day. And to spend life savings on new car, I may be just able to get one post a week if I am good. The head gasket was blown most likely when Sears serviced the car. They sabotaged the car when fixing the alternator so that the belt came off the car when I was going 80mph. I had no power steering and went around the exit with smoke coming out of the car. I almost threw out my arm steering around the rotary. I think this severely damaged the engine prematurely. Even if it took a while to be noticed. That was 6 months ago. But I want people to discover the positive attitude Oasis' What's the story Morning Glory can give you.
What's The Story Morning Glory is many people's introduction to Oasis. The first Oasis record they usually own. Here in the United States I was introduced to Wonderwall during a highschool business club (DECA) trip. I heard Champagne Supernova around the same time over the radio. But I discovered without a doubt every track on the album was better than these two excellent songs. I definitely fell more in love with the British way of releasing music; albums as opposed to individual songs. Buying one song is the musical attention deficit way of buying music. Recently artists such as Nick Mason of Pink Floyd said U2 Devalued Music further by giving away their newest album on Itunes. I don't know what commission Amazon gives to the musician. I think it is more than Spotify. When Taylor Swift refused to put her new album 1989 out on Spotify the news showed the Spotify executive. He said quite simply that now is a streaming culture. To me this was arrogant because the 0.007 % spotify gives to musicians isn't good enough. Great music starts and stops with the creativity of the artist, not music executives or entrepreneurs (Spotify). I think Itunes is slightly better because Steve Jobs created it in a way to stop the theft of music. Still the artists may be skimped. But I recommend you support Oasis in their newest release of the What's The Story (Morning Glory) Deluxe set. This is on my facebook newsfeed over the last months. I have seen rare versions of songs, like a Noel Gallagher sung She's Electric. The album as a whole is very conscientious and is musical candy. I want to take you on the journey of this great rock album. So join me in my series. I will do two posts a week.
Digsy's Dinner, Slide Away, and Married with Children
Digsy's Dinner
A playful and fun song. Digsy's Dinner features Noel Gallagher poking fun at British band Blur by saying he can do the whole Brit pop thing in his sleep.1 Despite the effortless craftsmanship Digsy's Dinner has some poignant sounding parts;
These could be the best days of our lives but i don't think we've been living very wise.
The song is all about the singer's lasagne. Something you wouldn't know unless you read the lyrics of Digsy's Dinner
Musically: Seems like a relatively simple song for a great guitarist. An upbeat song.
Slide Away
I think lead singer Liam Gallagher once said during a concert that Slide Away is for the guys to get chicks. Noel wrote the song about his "soulmate" Louise Jones. He was devastated when they broke up in 1994 saying, "I don't think I'll ever get over it." For sure some of Liam Gallagher's best singing. This is Paul McCartney's favorite song by Oasis. Liam and Oasis, make this Noel Gallagher-penned song brash and flowing. 2
is another fun song. The protagonist criticizes his wife and her musical tastes among many other things. But then says there is no need for her to say she is sorry. The song has a very sarcastic if not accurate portrayal of marriage. I think Married With Children is a very humorous song, especially to people from the United Kingdom. And I love the sort of grungy sound to the music.
Musician Bill Watt weighs in on Married with Children: "Reminds me a bit of Octupus' Garden by The Beatles. Kinda reminds me of simpler times like the show with Al Bundy. More specifically like the Andy Griffith show, happy times in the 1960s."
He goes on to describe how the chords are simple. The song does not drag on.
Conclusion
Oasis blasted out of the gates with a loud and energizing sound throughout their debut album Definitely Maybe. This album challenged social norms in a major way. For this reason it was very punk rock. Put this album on whenever you want to get hyped. Or whenever you are feeling sick and want to feel okay. This is very straightforward rock n roll. Enjoy!
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Is about doing coke and making things happen. Cigarettes and Alcohol is about being content with cigarettes and alcohol. These are the remedies to the banality and futile existence of the working life. Oasis ask,
Is it worth the aggravation to find a job when there's nothing worth working for
Oasis have raw attitude in this song. This is a very good video showing the rock n roll lifestyle. The chords are heavy and the lyrics straight to the point: Life is not worth living right, it's not worth being a wage slave and saving for retirement. Live for the now,
You could wait for a lifetime
to spend your days in the sunshine
You might as well do the white line
Cos when it comes on top
You gotta make things happen .. .
The lyrics to Cigarettes and Alcohol are extremely straightforward so there are no hidden messages for me to decode. But I ask you, my friend what you think "Making things happen" refers to. Just leave your answer in the comment section below.
Musically, Cigarettes and Alcohol is the essence of rock music. Noel Gallagher definitely steals from T-Rex "Get It On" formerly called "Bang a Gong". In fact, when Paul Arthurs ("Bonehead") heard this song for the first time he told Noel, "That's TRex." Noel basically said, "fuck it, it's brilliant." Noel also said, "You can take the most original band in the world. and they're just playing what they heard in their music collection."
All three b-sides to Cigarettes and Alcohol: Fade Away, The Beatles Cover "I Am the Walrus", and Listen Up all appear on Oasis Masterplan, a collection of Oasis b-sides. I highly recommend this album as it feels like a Best of Album. Oasis didn't produce lesser quality songs for their B-sides. Their best music was certainly never heard by Americans!
The line up for Cigarettes and Alcohol was:
Liam Gallagher - vocals
Noel Gallagher - lead guitar
Paul McGuigan- "Guigsy" -bassist
Paul Arthurs - "Bonehead" - rhythm guitars
Tony McCaroll- drums-
The original post doesn't load. I am going to bring it back. I may or may not re-add videos as time lapses. Re-enjoy.
Why listen to The Verve?! Listen because their despondent alternative rock songs contain raw energy-freeing you from life's constant struggle. While listening to the music you will quit trying to be happy, have the relationships work, and stop worrying about death. You will become free. The Verve's career, which contains many forgotten gems, stems from 1991 and lasts through 2008. Each of these years, the verve have had a distinct sound. The sound you need to feel strong in your current difficult time is here.
A Storm In Heaven Album Artwork
The Verve's alternative rock b-sides are more exploratory than their famous songs. Discovering B-sides from A Northern Soul and Forth, from unreleased demos and singles is like exploring and endless network of caves. It's our hope the verve reunite to fill our cup with more alternative rock jewels. In the course of writing this review, I listened to over 83 rare songs The Verve created outside of the Urban Hymns and A Storm In Heaven eras1. I present to you the most melodic and / or most rocking 34 songs, which will sustain your attention and excitement. Click on the blue links or embedded videos to listen as you read; read one random song at a time if you wish.
'91
Unreleased Demos
The Higher I Go
Buried in a batch of unreleased songs lies The Higher I Go. A song with a steady pop beat and front-and-center vocals. The jangly guitars add to the pop rock feel. For more information about this song and the other demos check out this excellent resource on the Verve: http://www.thevervelive.com/2010/05/higher-i-go.html2.
Open Your eyes it's Worth It
The 1991 alternative rock music scene is special. Creative bands like The Verve also have made their mark in this time frame. However, they put gems on the cutting floor, never to be released. The Verve spearhead Open Your Eyes (It's Worth It) with vocals but Nick McCabe is amazing and unforgettable on guitar.
All In The Mind comes out to the world as a single.
This song is filled with excellent guitar riffs. The song's video accentuate these guitar riffs with appropriate imagery. The video's scenes also attest the singer's narration. The Verve members are in a titty bar which corresponds to the song's themes of madly burning mad love and lust. However, the madness or passion is all in his mind. Then the music slows, you don't know what's coming next. What can you expect with the Verve? Who knows. The consistent mysteriousness of their lyrics keeps you guessing; is Is he talking about a relationship or exploits with hookers? Probably a relationship. The song finishes mysteriously as Richard wears a wig and makeup.
The alternative rock music continues to drive the song as it crescendos during the musical solo. At times the vocals raise the level of your emotion. Lyrics like:
I was born to fly, pretty high
refers to reaching limitless possibilities. This song is well known in the UK, but not often heard in the United States. Not surprising, considering most United State souls only listen to what is on the radio or television.
Later that year, the Verve release an EP with great singles: A Man Called Sun, Feel, Endless Life, and She's A Superstar.
The Verve EP
A Man Called Sun
The beginning of A Man Called Sun sounds like a truck waiting behind the delivery dock to be unloaded. The music continues with beautiful choruses, beautiful verses, and beautiful mystifying meanings. Overall, a beautiful psychotropic song.
A Man Called Sun Single Artwork
The song is a bit repetitive until a musical solo amplifies the Verve's rhythm section (bassist Simon Jones and drummer Pete Salisbury). This rhythm music brings a relaxing experience to the listener. An experience you've never had. meanings. Overall, a beautiful psychotropic song. The song is a bit repetitive until a musical solo amplifies the Verve's rhythm section (bassist Simon Jones and drummer Pete Salisbury). This rhythm music brings a relaxing experience to the listener. An experience you've never had.
She's A Superstar
She's A Superstar sounds different than the verve's other songs in '92. The difference is immediately found through Nick McCabe's guitar. In addition, Simon Jones unique sounding bass bounces in your ear. Furthermore, Ashcroft's lyrics are deeper than most songs, but he lets' the Verve's kaleidoscopic sound take you away to your happy place. This happy place is a result of a unique musical rhythm, most highlighted at 2:30, where you become hypnotized. Later, the rhythm section and vocals take over with triumphant sounds. These four celebrating musicians sound like an orchaestra. This rock song sounds alternative, complex, and is a long trippy experience for the listener!
She's A Superstar has unexpected twists and turns like a good roller coaster, you never know when another thrilling drop is coming. The Verve continue to play new sounds until the song ends. However, they do repeat the best parts of the song. As the song comes to a close you realize you are on top of your problems, thoughts of troublesome relationships and endless days of getting nowhere fade fast. The mellow guitar and urban sounds continue, after this new, exciting and epic experience you are simply left -muddling through your thoughts.
You want to experience this gentle mind-expanding song. The Verve have an unmatched musical beat with out-of-this-world singing. If good music is your cause, this is it! You heal as you listen because the song sounds similar throughout, requiring little brain effort.
Endless Life
Let the healing last forever with this song's sound and imagery.
Endless Life has great unprecedented hallucinatory alternative rock sounds you didn't think standard rock equipment can make. Nick McCabe leads the way in making the instruments not sound like instruments. His goal is to make the guitar sound like a synthetizer and non-guitar-like.3
If you look closely to the song's lyrics you will be blown away by emotional depth and meaning. The lyrical idea of everlasting life is nothing earth-shatteringly new, but the message has never been delivered like this. Follow the lyrics to enjoy this rare song.
'93
Voyager
is an extremely rare, live bootleg (fan recording of a show) of a 1993 Verve concert. The concert features one unreleased track: South Pacific.
South Pacific
South Pacific sounds much better on stereo than on a lap top computer. Music buffs know this; however average slugs like me experience these songs from my laptop. When I play video games and sometimes even read. Good times. I urge you to listen to these songs as you read! Blast this song, shatter your windows, and let me know what explanation you give to the cops for the noise violation call. Freedom from society is the vibe making this song fun. Most times in society you can't say things like,
South Pacific is where I'm gonna end my days
Gonna die under a wave
Freely talking about death and not caring what people say is liberating and what alternative rock is about. Haven't you had enough of people's tiring games? I have. And nothing is off topic on this blog, no rules exist, just enjoy the melancholic yet fun music. This song is usually one of the last delights Verve fans discover.
'93
A Storm In Heaven
A complete album with singles this Blue and Slide Away. Here I describe Verve A Storm In Heaven.
'94
No Come Down is a compilation album of verve b-sides through a Storm in Heaven. The compilation includes some underrated classics including One Way to Go and a longer, live performance of Gravity Grave than on The Verve EP.
One Way to Go has an amazing guitar or bass riff. The instruments gradually join the song.
The lyrics are so relaxing because they follow good poetic meters and tempos. This makes for effortless listening. Richard's singing concludes each line with a slow tempo; thus creating a peaceful atmosphere. And the space between each verse gives quiet strength to the listener. So, quit trying so hard to master your emotions. Instead, just let go of them.
Gravity Grave appears on both No Come Down and The Verve EP. The version of Gravity Grave on No Come Down is the better, and longer extended version.
Apparently the song is about drugs4 but I would love to hear Richard Ashcroft weigh in on its meaning. The song gives you an out-of-this world experience. Leave popular norms, continue deeper into The Verve's musical cave.
The slow vocal tempo relaxes you, while the intense alternative rock music pumps you up. You end up in a maniacal trance, tuned into the strong bass lines, echoing guitar riffs, and a soft and steady drum beat. Respond to this beat, let the music take you to a place you've never been.
'94
Mover
This song has an non-relaxing steady beat. The lyrics to this unreleased song bring intense darkness:
Sleeplessness is one of the most depressing and sickly things a person experiences. This song describes the darkest conditions - war. The song then takes this negative energy and delivers a dsyphoric state of mind which comforts sleepless listeners. You are brought to a higher gear, and your social inhibitions disappear; like the soldier you do anything to survive the impending crisis.
'95 Album
A Northern Soul
Summary
A Northern Soul features some great songs that create a unique listening experience. The Verve deliberately produce a blurry alternative rock sound led by Nick McCabe's guitar.
Richard brings madness to the album, the lyrics reflect this. The singing is easily audible over the music. The Verve's madness even infected producer Owen Morris who had a nervous breakdown during the recording. Owen Morris threw a chair through a window. The Verve did acid during the recording.5
A Northern Soul has a scary looking album cover haha. The title track is different than anything you have heard. The dance beat comes from a heavy use of the wah wah pedal. The Verve guitarist Nick McCabe implies it's more important to get the desired sound even if means playing the guitar unconventionally or using keyboards. He believes this doesn't make anyone less of a musician.3
The theme of absolute madness runs through the song's lyrics. The murky sound, which is not poor production as commonly thought, mirrors the drug-fueled insanity, Richard's relational heartbreaks and Owen Morris's nervous breakdown.5 Can you handle the madness of this song?
On Your Own
The ringing acoustic guitar melts your heart with wonderful sadness. The lyrics do the same:
Tell Me It's True
that I need you. . .
lies .....
got to get rid of this hole inside
The noose hanging from the tree in the foggy night in the video indicates suicide. This stems from love's heartache. The lack of acknowledgment the singer feels reveals his loneliness. Embracing these feelings when listening to this song brings you healing.
This is one of the best live versions of any alternative rock songs you will ever hear.
This Is Music
A classic rock song with a heavy guitar riffs and great singing. The lyrics aren't impressive but the guitar riff is! The rhythm guitar has a watery sound that melts in your ear. Perhaps a guitar solo would have made the song better. However, because of the mixing where music and vocals are the same volume you can isolate one instrument's sound; whether guitar, bass, drums or vocals.
Although the music video at the end has Richard fall off the building, I'm sure there was a mat, no worries. Don't you miss out on This is Music.
A New Decade
Blast this on the stereo! A great watery powerful guitar sound SCREAMS with the singing of compelling lyrics.
Overall, this pleasurable song is contemporary to listen 20 years later. Dust off this song in this new decade.
History
Ashcroft based his melody from William Blake's poem London. Many of History's lines commence with "In every ... "6
In total, it is Richard expressing his caring thoughts towards his lover that he hopes will understand him.
Enjoy this highly emotional music video:
But keep in mind the album version has an additional 1 minute 28 seconds of great music than this video.
At the end it is so emotionally intensive.
"But the bed ain't made" "It's filled full of hope" "I've got a skin full of dope" So emotional in fact, that History delivers in an unforgettable and current way in the minds of today's listeners.
No Knock on My Door
Immediately the LOUD guitar chords bring somberness. Discover Richard's compelling romantic story and feel adrenaline in your veins. This reaction in inexplicable but listen and you will understand my point. You feel a fun combination wretchedness and pure relaxation. Ashcroft's passionate singing with a sincere message brings you to reflect aimlessly on your life. The guitar chords ricochet to bring never-ending somberness. No Knock On My Door continues with a rare guitar solo from the verve, featuring a full wall of dusky sound.
When Richard sings,
Im Shaking you realize everything is shaking: you, Ashcroft's voice, and the guitar chords continually quiver in this new experience.
Stormy Clouds
Exactly as the first lines indicate, you want to listen to a story:
I wanted to tell you my story
of how my life seemed to change in a matter of days
You desire to lean back and absorb this musical anecdote.
You probably will get the album after reading this and subsequently hear the album version. So rather than giving you a low quality youtube upload I present an interview with Simon Jones and a live performance of Stormy Clouds. The Verve bassist describes the 1997 tour as Neon Wilderness from the album Urban Hymns plays in the background. Here is that live version:
Bands like the Verve, that play almost exactly like the album version are great live bands. However, Nick McCabe is an uncommon talent in the alternative rock genre, because he would play variations during each live show. He never moves around because he is focusing on his equipment's sounds.3 Similarly, Ashcroft spontaneously injects analogous emotions into each live song.
When I was having a nervous breakdown in college because I couldn't balance sports, academics and a social life and subsequently couldn't sleep this song was able to sooth me into sleep. Knowing that lack of sleep caused me injuries and made things worse I would be in a terrible panic when I suffered insomnia before a big day. But by embracing the superior craziness of Stormy Clouds I am able to relax, and at least get a few hours of sleep. You are guaranteed to have a similar experience with this song. Travel through the pain:
I'm tearing up inside Don't be scared, come on inside She brings the rain, these new horizons See through the pain Stormy clouds
This song relaxes you with a slow tempo. The laid back guitar riff is not all that easy to
play but the verve play flawlessly. The lead guitarist takes on rhythm guitarist duties and creates a variety of melodies. Never do you feel, the verve members are trying to show off.
The Verve like to jam to get their amazing rhythms and this song was no different. McCabe was a fan of these sessions, in part because of the acid and ecstasy that was done. McCabe referred to the recording of A Northern Sould as one of the happiest times in his life. However, the song is thematic of a broken relationship - the dark lyrics:
I'm just a poor little wifeless fella Another drink and I won't miss her
lead you to mixed emotions. So It Goes becomes a solid listening exploit.
Reprise
Reprise may be the greatest piece of alternative rock music you will ever hear. Verve drummer Pete salisbury and guitarist Nick McCabe thought the album contained some of the best music ever made. Psyche yourself up and listen to the song in one take and discover how the song starts great and becomes increasingly magnificent.
The song is comprised of bass and drums with a strong, steady catchy beat. Nick McCabe leads the group, playing with controlled madness while being the main connoisseur of the variation in sound.
This sound definitely takes you somewhere, like in a video game the longer you collect jewels or money the greater the result, well, with the longer this song is great the more colossal its value. When I hear good hard rock music I want the song to have considerable length. More is better; and it allows you to do other things while enjoying this song in the background.
"That was amazing" Richard proclaims at the end of Reprise, how right he is! It really does sicken me how Justin Bieber was selling out Arenas and was a household name while songs like Reprise go unnoticed.
I highly recommend listening to a rare live version of Reprise. I just reviewed an album, A Northern Soul, that is unknown in America, but is definitely worth hearing and buying now :)
Now we enter a hidden chamber - the album's forgotten b-sides.
A Northern Soul
b-sides
Let the Damage Begin
Power of a relationship is this song's feeling. These strong emotions can give me comfort over any relationship heartache. Maybe they can for you too. This song describes a good relationship, and we all understand the sexual innuendo of "damage". haha
Musically, I love the harmonious rock sound, vocals and music fit perfectly together. B-sides are typically discarded for a reason, but the Verve created b-sides to have quality tracks in support of their singles, which is how music is sold in the UK. There is nothing second rate about Let The Damage Begin.
I see the door
One of the most beautiful, emotional songs you will ever hear. This song grips your soul and never lets go. In an odd way you will receive strength from the song's lovely sadness and brilliant words. We are dealing with deep forces of personality. The song's beautiful acoustic guitars add to the feeling of a vulnerable person emptying their soul. Indeed, the guitars tug your heart strings. Musically the drums stand out, while the bass and guitar are solid.
Richard is a true poet and knows how to keep the same length and meter to each line. He extends notes or shortens words to fit this perfect rhythm. I recommend headphones for the full experience. I like the art for this b-side, so I recommend this video:
Scared that you don't want me there, my love
This song explores and exorcises your emotions, listen and free yourself. The verve did so well to architect this song both poetically and musically, why would they hide it? You would have to ask Richard I guess. It's inexplicable this was not on an album. Equally puzzling is the fact that no b-side compilation album for music after No Come Down was made. Who is their manager?! Verve manager, can you explain the decision to not more heavily advertise the Verve On Your Own single in the United States?
Back on my feet again
A slower intensity song that allows you to take a breath. Back On My Feet Again uses electric guitars that are played softly. Chill
out to the slow tempo of the music and vocals.
The chorus: Back on My feet again . . . crescendos into greatness. To fully understand the Verve's energy one must experience the thrill of being in love. Something I should try to give me the excitement I crave.
This music is enlightening without being preachy. Ashcroft is arrogant for the sake of his music as one article 7 puts it, but he is not a pompous douchebag like Bono.
A Northern Soul has some great tracks. Forth also does well, containing great album tracks and b-sides. It's a crime against humanity these songs are not more publicized. My friend Matt often wondered this, relying on me to find their hidden songs on the internet. I did find concert bootlegs and the great songs listed here.
In 1997, The Verve achieved mainstream popularity with Urban Hymns. But I am focusing on their lesser known but still amazing songs. In 2008, The Verve make a comeback 8.
2008
Forth
Sit and Wonder
Sit and Wonder has a heavy atmosphere musically and vocally.
McCabe has plenty of space in the song to explore his atmospheric guitar. To hear this song in less compressed, high definition sound, listen in surround sound or on a C.D. Simon Jones bass reverbs as Ashcroft's singing flows beautifully. However, his lyrics are heavy:
The demons in my mind
these lyrics describe depression or mental illness, and the feeling of being trapped in sin.
Forth was the verve's first record in over a decade and was a highly anticipated album; Sit and Wonder was one of the first songs released and brought much buzz. I greatly enjoyed this initial release.
Sit and Wonder was originally an 85 minute jam condensed to a 7 minute alternative rock / pop song.9 If you are excited by music that is both unique and is true rock and roll then you will find this song simply glorious.
Rather Be
Rather Be is enjoyable. The song's main pillar is uncomplicated music, the verve brilliantly compose a fun vocal melody over this music. Rather Be was released before Forth came out and was part of the album's exciting anticipation. I listened and I liked what I heard. This uncommon, quality music is so enjoyable it relieves headaches. But don't expect to hear this on the radio.
The music video is laughable as Richard walks alone through a forest. Where is the band? Were they sick on filming day?
Judas
Judas is based on Richard Ashcroft's social experiment. Richard is a fun guy to think of doing such a spontaneous and public social experiment. Ashcroft was in a New York Starbucks and used Judas as the name for his order. People were shocked when his order was called. The result of Ashcroft's experiment is that even today this infamously historical name brings social castration.10
This song is psychedelic like Catching The Butterfly from Urban Hymns. Nick McCabe is proud of his guitar work in that song and probably is on Judas as well.3
The Verve have fantastic teamwork in Judas; Ashcroft lets the band play without dominating the song with his vocals. While the band plays to accompany his vocals. And Nick McCabe plays beautiful guitar over it. Finally, the result is a smooth exploratory song. Judas is such a relaxing tune, it's perfect to listen while driving the highway at night time, as the rain slides down your windshield. Enjoy this colorful song you probably haven't perceived yet.
Valium Skies
Get some Valium and listen to this mellow alternative rock tune. The guitar sounds like cotton candy. In addition, the emotions are very sad. I suggest you let go of your emotions, quit trying so hard to
Nick McCabe reposing Valium Skies
be happy, but relax like you never have before. This song is about a partner that unconditionally supports you.
Forth is an overlooked album. Two in depth interviews transport excitement for this album. Part one of the interview. Part two of the Forth Interview. The Verve really expressed themselves in these "reflections of darkness" interviews. But a link no longer exists.
Appalachian Springs
This song is so enjoyable and detail oriented, it's not surprising Richard Ashcroft spent a decade toiling over its merits. Ashcroft sings perfectly with resonating musical beats. No patch in the world can stop you from listening. Your good mood will rise as the song crescendos around 2:50 with the transcendent ahs because this is a Verve musical solo. Nick McCabe describes this song with its uncontrollable surging of energy, as quintessential Verve. 10 The Verve members are each in fifth gear.
As before, I chose a video featuring the artwork from the verve album the song originates.
But what does the song mean? Richard describes not recognizing yourself in the mirror after an all nighter. But he ultimately leaves the listener to interpret the song for herself. Nick McCabe's praise of this track speaks high volumes. After festering in Ashcroft's mind for a decade you can hear Appalachian Springs.
'08
Blue Pacific Ocean
Perhaps one of the funnest songs; never to be released! Ashcroft and McCabe shine over the rhythm section, comprised of Pete Salisbury (drums) and Simon Jones (bass). Simon Jone's bass alone is quite cool, but Ashcroft shows his range going from his usual voice to a very deep older sounding voice during one of the bridges of the song. The lyrics have pleasant imagery which the home made music video matches.
Major Force
Major Force has a truly great rhythm. Verve bassist Simon ones stars in this song as Richard's Na na na floats above the music. What's not to like about the interesting background vocals and catchy beat? Around 2:50 the guitars uncivilize. Major Force changes your psychological environment.
The nature of great British rock bands like The Verve is to quickly produce experimental b-side songs that immediately support their singles. Sometimes working instinctively leads to superior work. Unfortunately, people seldom hear these awesome b-sides.
All Night Long
All Night Long builds slowly into feelings of nostalgia on a peaceful Sunday morning. Simon Jones leads the song as Nick McCabe reaches his crest through tinkering on his guitar. Richard's regretful tone in his singing is incredibly moving. The sad sounding chords accompany this deep, beautiful and soulful singing.
Ashcroft pleads:
And If God can't give me grace
God can forgive me Oh Lord
Oh Jesus forgive me
Ashcroft has had a dramatic spiritual change from his nothingness lifestyle from A Northern Soul era. In 2000, he shows different sides of life, and hope in his debut solo album Alone with Everybody. 11, 12 This sentiment continues into 2008's Forth.
Ashcroft mentions negatively Jesus in This is Music, but in All Night Long he sincerely asks forgiveness from Jesus. What's the point? Without fear, Ashcroft always sings whatever is true to his heart at the time, his words and music comes alive in relevance. Listen today, and you will be fully impacted.
Unreleased Demos
Oh Sister Demo
The guitar brings an interesting vibe and perspective. Also the fast singing and tempo add to the vibe. I really like when Ashcroft's swears because it gives the song a bad-ass vibe. This very light-hearted song gives off the rebellious and exciting vibe. Again, a shame it wasn't made into more. Why do bands like The Verve throw away and not fully pursue songs like Oh Sister?
C'mon We're Making It Now
This song saw exposure as an Ashcroft solo track, but was rarely heard by The Verve. C'mon People We're Making it Now is one of many rare Verve tracks youtube user shoegaze76 features on his channel.
The Verve's version is extremely different from Ashcroft's solo version because of its raw guitar and laid-back energy. Not easy listening but far more original than any American Idol song.
I have said it before: If you are looking for Urban Hymns 2, listen to Richard Ashcroft's solo album Alone with Everybody. However, Forth is a group effort that features the Verve's signature mind altering sound. The band mates were pleased that Appalachian Springs is quintessential Verve10.
New Verve gems can continually be discovered on Youtube.
The Verve Change My Life
Enjoy a verve festival and let me know of more great rare verve tracks you come across.
Change My Life - an unreleased track (recorded between 1990-1993) with a catchy guitar riff. It's a shame Ashcroft couldn't agree with McCabe, and release and market more of the verve's guitar oriented songs. The other verve members do compliment McCabe brilliantly in this song. This is alternative rock at its finest!
A blight on the music industry is that Change My Life was never released. Hearing mediocre songs on the radio and low quality youtube versions of Change My Life is tiring. The unforgettable drums and guitar bring across cool energy. The energy you feel informally jogging, walking on a warm summer night with a breeze. The kind of night where you check out the waves. Again, it's a wart on the music world this song wasn't released.
Ending
The Verve came up with some awesome space-rock singles from 1992 to 1994. In my previous article, I discuss the A Storm in Heaven era (1993). In 1995 The Verve produced A Northern Soul, including its great b-sides. I highlight individual tracks but there are more verve gems to investigate. In 1997 The Verve wrote Urban Hymns, in this article I cover that era. In 2008, a reunified The Verve cultivate the music of Forth. Blue Pacific ocean is just one amazing song to come from the Forth era. Last call to readers: tell me the overlooked music (unreleased tracks, singles, albums, b-sides) that fascinates you. Look for Richard Ashcroft's solo projects, and Nick McCabe and Simon Jones' project Black Submarine13. That is where the magic resides. Thank you!
And for the best listening experience remember to use Ncredible NTunes. The awesome sound of the NCredible NTunes is available at WIRELESSWAVE stores across Canada For a limited time they're Free with the activation of select handsets on the Rogers network. so come on down and check them out!
Credits
Focus on the 74 sources that comprise my piece. On these sites, use the site navigation to find what you are looking for. Thanks again, happy listening! message me for these sources.
Tonight we focus on Bring It On Down. This is hard rock!
Bring It On Down is the essence of Oasis' loud, intimate venue I referenced in the last part. That concert we wish we were at. However, this song, Oasis Bring It On Down is not just about the music, but the lyrics are also significant.
Oasis Bring It On Down has lyrical significance because a British punk revolution is referenced. Throughout Definitely Maybe, especially later on when I discuss Cigarettes and Alcohol, a rebellious attitude towards British royalty and about working in general is expressed. Check out the lyrics to Bring It On Down.
"you're the outcast-you're the underclass. But you don't care because you're living fast"
This is about doing drugs so you don't care about not being part of upper class or the in-crowd. As you can imagine this attitude was very punk to the British public that became engrossed with Definitely Maybe.
Noel Gallagher further alludes to an outcast forcing their way into an upper class or in-party crowd. Noel alludes to problems with drugs and alcohol.
"You're the uninvited guest who stays till the end. I know you got a problem that the devil sends."
Much more fun songs from Definitely Maybe to come.
Oasis are a triumphant band and story. Oasis's music is celebratory. Noel Gallagher, Oasis' pioneer knows rock history and incorporates this into his music making it exceptional. Pure rock n roll with great lyrics. I will feature all this in my Oasis series. I will focus primarily from 1994 to 1998 when Oasis stood on top of the musical world. This period featured four main albums: Definitely Maybe, What's the Story (Morning Glory), Be Here Now, and The Masterplan.
Oasis is comprised of Liam Gallagher -lead singer, Noel Gallagher -lead guitar and vocals, Paul "Guigsy" McGuigan Paul "Bonehad" Arthurs Tony McCaroll Alan White Gem Archer Andy Bell Zak Starkey And who could forget Oasis has a rockstar in Liam Gallagher. Here is one quote: On his emotions: “I suppose I do get sad, but not for too long. I just look in the mirror and go, ‘What a good-looking fuck you are.’” (NME, November 2006). Read more at http://www.nme.com/photos/liam-gallaghers-70-funniest-quotes/149335/1/1#0lDpPa8KFdw4016A.99
I will talk about Insurgentes, the independent film by musician Steve Wilson. Thesis: Steven Wilson is a true independent thinker, and musician. He is in the forefront of the anti-music industry by making the highest quality, uncompromising music. I will start by summarizing actions in Insurgentes. Later, I will analyze more, especially in part two: The film opens with disturbing sounds of kids talking. Steven Wilson finally breaks the silence. Footage from his performance at the Pinkpop festival in Holland is seen. Steve walks through an unoccupied field in his hometown that overlooks train tracks. This is Steven Wilson's exploration of his musical beginnings, where some of his concepts originated. For example, trains are often referred to in Porcupine Tree's music; particularly in In Absentia, Deadwing, and The Incident. This has to do with Steve Wilson's nostalgia for the train in his home town.
Insurgentes DVD Cover
Now we go inside Steven's first, and seemingly only school. He attended Cavendish school from about 1978 to 1985 (Nineteen eighty-fiiiiiiiive). Steve Wilson describes his first concert where he was so nervous he sat on side of the stage. He could not stand, and simply looked down at the microphone. Steve is bad at sports. Steven Wilson says most people he knows are either great musicians or great athletes. He never knew anyone to be truly good at both. Your cousin may say, "Well my friend is good at both. But point out to him that his friend is no world class musician." Steve Wilson wraps up his hometown excursion by reminding us not to believe your hometown is all life offers. Get out and explore the world.
Insurgentes continues with imagery of walking down a narrow hallway cave. This is imagery from the music video for Harmony Korine, the best track from the Insurgentes musical album. The music video is top notch. The video features fields, with masked-men, people crawling, and pig musicians. Seeing Steven Wilson perform live with his all his projector images on stage was life-changing. Harmony Korine rocked so loud, the foundation of the Berkerly Performance Center in Boston, Massachusetts shook. The next scene panders to Steve Wilson in a London, England house using a keyboard and vocally recording scary noises over the sounds. He tunes the guitar differently for an almost indigenous Australian sound. This is creepy as hell. Here Steven Wilson shows his laid-back dedication to music. His loosely official studio features a piano.
Steven Wilson by his hometown train tracks
Next, Steve Wilson shares his experience living in Israel. Underrated musician Steven Wilson has his palm read by a fortune teller. She tells him he has a sense of adventure. She reads him as having the rainbow abundance. Later in Israel, Wilson appears on Lior Shalyn show. He describes his documentary Insurgentes as what it is like to be a 21st century musician. Steve Wilson refers to Israel as his second home. The talk show host, Lior Shalyn asks Steven, "if Israel is your second home, why aren't you speaking Hebrew right now?" haha
Around 10:27 into the first Insurgentes dvd, Steven Wilson starts destroying Ipods. He destroys them in many hilarious ways. Through a sledge hammer, run over by car, lit on fire. He even asked the Israeli army to run a tank over the Ipod. They said this was silly. He discusses this in the second Insurgentes dvd. The film cuts back to Steven Wilsons' London, England studio where he is shown creating sounds from Abandoner, the second track of Insurgentes (musical album). Insurgentes returns to Steven Wilson's less-than-enjoyable school experience. He was unsocial-solitary, only writing music. But he had a band with friends. Steven Wilsons' school has remained static over decades. The school was not an encouraging environment for him. Also concerning Steven Wilson's childhood is the story of how his dad made musical equipment for him. In this way, Steven could play the sounds he heard on records. His dad made homemade sequencers with tape delay. A vocoder. Steven Wilson's parents are shown and heard.
Wilson in home-style studio
Twenty minutes into Insurgentes the rockstar lifestyle is shown with bass communion's Aviv Geffen. This is one of many projects Steven Wilson has. Each project focuses on a different aspect of his musical creativity so he can remain pure in each group. He doesn't have to mix things in these bands as much as in his solo work. Anyway, Aviv and Steven are enjoying life's experiences. They talk about listening to records and new albums. And how they hate Ipods. Steven Wilson wants to buy the record to enjoy the artwork and higher quality of sound. You can tell Steven Wilson plays to please himself. He must since he performs all the time in big arenas and for private parties. The films shows a clip of him performing Trains for a small group of people in a party. Indeed life goes on in Israel, despite the terrorist situation. Steven has visited Israel 50 - 60 times in a seven year span. People in Tel Aviv, Israel don't have Ipods. They listen to the live music around every street corner. In interviews, Steven Wilson has referenced how living in Israel has helped to bring out his personality. People are very unreserved. Certainly much more so than England where Wilson also lives. People in Tel, Aviv, Israel are engaging. They aren't distracted by headphones or their cell phones. They interact with each other, seeking friendships and conversations. I'm not saying this is a better lifestyle. This lifestyle is different. In some situations you need an Ipod to have music with you. In this way can you pump yourself up or relax yourself before an important event by varying your music selection. They enjoy music in Tel Aviv, many people have nice stereos in their homes. As I get more quiet time at home, I can watch more of this DVD. I will then be able to provide more insight in addition to my summary. Look forward to this and more in part 2.
