Benjamin Kassel
"Maps," fragile yet simultaneously rocking
Through lead singer Karen O, Yeah Yeah Yeahs find a balance between soft, heartfelt vocals and a powerful alt rock instrumental.
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Benjamin Kassel
Nov 30, 20215 min read
"Let Me Love You," a beautiful 21st-century ballad with a lot going on under its surface
Mario's signature song may seem simple at first, but closer inspection reveals several largely small, but impactful changes throughout.
Benjamin Kassel
Nov 24, 20214 min read
"Toxic," the most unique pop song of this century
Baby, can't you hear? It's nothing like what you expect from an idol like Britney Spears, but it's arguably her biggest hit.
Benjamin Kassel
Nov 9, 20214 min read
In its various forms, "Beggin'" has been a standout song for over a half-century...
...and I had to figure out which one version I liked / wanted to write about the most.
Benjamin Kassel
Oct 29, 20214 min read
Bob Sinclar and Steve Edwards say, "World, Hold On"... but how do we do that?
And to what exactly are we supposed to hold on? Well, the answer is... a lot of things.
Benjamin Kassel
Oct 19, 20214 min read
India.Arie's "Video" is as honest as it gets in this gilded world of ours
Rising above the weight of unrealistic physical expectations, she delivers a soulful, guitar-driven affirmation of her self-worth.
Benjamin Kassel
Oct 11, 20214 min read
"Hard to Beat" lives up to its name
It's a shame most Americans don't know this dance-inducing indie/garage gem.
Benjamin Kassel
Oct 5, 20214 min read
"Don't Know Why" and the calmer, number side of heartbreak
In a way, Norah Jones presents an alternative perspective on lost love compared to yesterday's post.
Benjamin Kassel
Sep 25, 20216 min read
"Second Chance" shows the power of paying attention to the little things as much as the big picture
It sounds like a lot of tracks from its era, but its creators' attention to detail and its dramatic but relatable lyrics make it stand out.
Benjamin Kassel
Sep 19, 20215 min read
"Sweetness" and the power of "whoa"
The most powerful and catchiest vocal lines don't necessarily need words.
Benjamin Kassel
Sep 7, 20214 min read
"Little L" sounds like a happy, groovy jam until you parse the lyrics
On a down day where little seemed to go right for me, a healthy dose of house-like funk temporarily lifted my spirits.
Benjamin Kassel
Sep 5, 20215 min read
The "Dog Days Are Over," and good times are ahead... right?
Florence + the Machine believe so, but their protagonist is far from convinced.
Benjamin Kassel
Sep 4, 20215 min read
"1901," the ultimate French track of its time — which calls back to another time
Yesterday, it was French house. Today, it's French rock, and a tune which has its roots in that same electronic touch.
Benjamin Kassel
Aug 31, 20214 min read
Simply put, we're all at least a little "Crazy"
I finally talk about a track from my lifetime, and it gives me a chance to appreciate sampling as well as its lyrical perspective.
Benjamin Kassel
Aug 29, 20214 min read
Pray that "The Saints Are Coming" for real this time
As Hurricane Ida causes destruction in Louisiana, this entry pays tribute to a people and a city who have risen from the ashes before.
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