Previously when I shared my admiration for live performance sessions by musicians and artists (in Episode #7), I failed to mention another key point. In addition to observing the performer's passion and organic authenticity, there is a particular contentment in witnessing the human nature of imperfection. In other words, to a degree, we are able to relate to the performers. Having said that, some performers rarely make any mistakes, which is equally remarkable.
On second thought, the latter point is a detailed version of "organic authenticity".
In this episode, we have sensational vocalists that are either accompanied by musicians or performed solo.
Kizzy Crawford - Shout Out
The adorable Bajan-Welsh singer songwriter, Kizzy Crawford, is seen here utilizing the loop pedal. Coupled with a violin, guitar, and her vocals, she performs the empowering and melodious song, "Shout Out".
Chet Faker - Love & Feeling
Chet Faker, now known as Nick Murphy, is the vocalist in this video. Accompanied by his band, Murphy performs "Love & Feeling", which characterizes the emotional, physical, and mental effects of sexual attraction.
Glass Animals - Crazy (Gnarls Barkley)
The English indie band, Glass Animals, performs the cover of Gnarls Barkley's 2006 hit debut single, "Crazy". Glass Animal's adaptation of "Crazy" is hypnotic from the soothing vocals to the band's signature spirit.
Portugal. The Man - Feel It Still
Oregan-based American rock band, Portugal. The Man, performs the stripped down version of "Feel It Still". The group immediately begins the song with thrilling energy, which is sustained to the very end. This song has interpolations from the 1959 hit, "Please Mr. Postman" by The Marvelettes.
Ella Eyre - Deeper
In an era where mainstream music shamelessly utilizes the electronic modification of the voice, i.e. autotune, it's refreshing listening to Ella Eyre's raw voice in this acoustic version of her single, "Deeper".
Tash Sultana Live at Rolling Stone
The talented multi-instrumentalist Tash Sultana, will allure you in this 20-minute extraordinary performance. Not seen in this video, but she also plays over ten instruments, including trumpet, flute, saxophone, percussions, and of course, the guitar, bass, and more. Sultana utilizes the loop medal as well. I've read her live shows are a noteworthy experience.
Dua Lipa - I Would Rather Go Blind (Etta James Cover)
The beautiful Dua Lipa covers Etta James' blues and soul classic, "I Would Rather Go Blind". Although often covered, I think Etta James would be proud of Dua Lipa vocal performance.
Aurora - Teardrop (Massive Attack Cover)
After a short discussion about the mysteriously infamous Bankzy, Aurora and her band perform the haunting cover of Massive Attack's "Teardrop". Aurora vocals complement well with the atmospheric ambience of this song.
Shakey Graves - Roll the Bones
Last but not least, we have Shakey Graves performing the upbeat blend of blues, folk, and rock and roll song titled, "Roll The Bones". The story behind his unique stage name is Shakey Graves decided to keep his name after one night, over a campfire, he and his friends humorously gave each other Indian guide names.
Previous Melonious Thonk Episodes
- #8: '50s/late '60s Doo-wop | Featuring The Platters, The Marcels, The Penguins, The Cleftones, The Channels, and more.
- #7: Live Sessions Pt. 1 featuring BINKBEATS, Fkj, Esperanza Spalding, Yussef Kamaal, Thundercat, and more.
- #6: Nas - Samples of "Illmatic"
- #5: Blue-eyed Soul featuring David Bowie, Bobby Caldwell, Hall & Oates, Boz Scaggs, Dusty Springfield and more
- #4:'50s/'60s Rock & Roll, Garage Rock, Rockabilly, Novelty (Halloween Edition)
- #3: Late '70s Psychedelic Soul
- #2: '60s/'70s Brazilian Bossa Nova
- #1: Late '70s South Korean Funk