Song title: Kinjirareta Asobi
Artist: Ali Project
Year: 2004
Why I like this song:
I love the Rozen Maiden anime and this is a suitably demented opening for it.
It's compelling in it's freakish nature and that's what makes it a fun listen.
Original video located here. Accessed 27th June 2012
Song title: One Diamond One Heart
Artist: Smashing Pumpkins
Year: 2012
Why I like this song:
Could it be? A Smashing Pumpkins album that's actually good? That after years of nonsense, Billy Corgan has finally got his act back together and delivered the goods?
Yes he has. I've been listening to Oceania and it's genuinely a surprise that it sounds great. Granted it does get a bit long and the last three songs could be easily dropped without anyone noticing but when it works, this album knocks it out of the park.
And this is my favourite of the album. Somehow, when Billy declares that 'I'm Always on Your Side' it seems genuine.
Did he want to thank those who stuck by him all through the years? I believe it....
Original video located here. Accessed 22nd June 2022
Song title: North, South, East and West
Artist: The Church
Year: 1988
Why I like this song:
This is my 'Waiting in Southern Cross station for a Skybus/Train' theme!
Original video located here. Accessed 25th June 2019
Song title: Suite: Judy Blue Eyes
Artist: Crosby Stills and Nash
Year: 1969
Why I like this song:
So I decided to take a listen to Crosby Stills and Nash's first album.
I had known the name for years, with and without Neil Young, and I was under the impression that this was one of the biggest/best selling acts ever. And yet, I couldn't place any of their songs. So lets see what this supergroup has to say for itself then?
Turns out, it was some of the best vocal harmonies one will ever hear. And it still sounds fresh years later which is indeed a feat in itself.
Song title: Step On
Artist: Happy Mondays
Originally Done By: John Kongos
Year: 1990
Why I like this song:
Is it possible to do a bad cover of this song? Apparently not.
I think its fair to say that if you know this song is through the familiar rock approach. So props to the Happy Mondays for doing something different: A dance version.
And it still doesn't diminish the 'take a stand' vibe of the original. But then again, I don't think such a thing is possible.
Original video located here. Accessed 27th June 2023
Song title: The Winner
Artist: Miki Matsubara
Year: 1992
Why I like this song:
Continuing the theme of 'unimpressive anime with fantastic openings' we arrive to this classic.
Yes, the entire anime is a rip-off of Top Gun, yes this song sound far too close to Danger Zone and yes the producers of Stardust Memories were sued for plagiarism but this is still a rockin' opening.
Must be that sax riff....