Monarchy - Gold In The Eternal Fire (mp3)Having grown up in the time when bubblegum pop ruled the airwaves, by the likes of Westlife, Backstreet Boys, N Sync, Britney Spears etc, so it's natural that I remember
Eternal Flame as it is - sung by Atomic Kitten. So, when Monarchy called it a classic, I was perplexed. So a quick google told me it was originally by The Bangles, an all female band harking from the 80s. Fastfoward 31 years later, Monarchy has taken it and meshed it with parts from
Gold In The Fire to come up with something really amazing. And apparently they did it to commemorate the royal wedding between a young man and his fiancée (The Economist with not so subtle humour). Anyhow, really flowing piano that ripples gently through like a silent murmur; the duo evoking everything they can with such elegance.
The One AM Radio - WitnessI'm totally digging Hirway and gang. First introduced to me by the show Chuck (it's really got awesome music selections), their latest album has more production - like more elaborate synths, bass and whatnot, but this one from his sophomore album leans towards intimate and personal. It's as if he's singing to a small group of friends gathered around the porch of his house. Very tender vocals that remind me of Kings of Convenience along with a chill vibe that makes you all relaxed, quite apt considering how it helps you enjoy the song even more.
The National - Exile VilifyThe song that was created specially for the computer game Portal 2 reflects how music transcends boundaries. Another piano based song, but grander in scale and complements Berninger's signature baritone very nicely. Somehow it feels very pensive, as if reflecting on something, what with giving up, feeling like a trial and being like marbles on glass.
