Music, Music and More Music: Tunes from September TV Shows

It’s been a while since I’ve posted TV music here mostly because it’s been quite slow in terms of tunes. Now that the new season has started, however, there is a glut. A three week glut, to be exact because I’m a little late in the starting.

Sorry for the onslaught, but there is some great music out there, and I have to share it. I hope you find something you like.

Revenge – This show has always been on point with their soundtrack and the first episode is no different. From the moody Chromatics song to the jamming Soft Swells and Tame Impala, I’m so glad Revenge is back.

Soft Swells – “Shake It Off, Turn It Up”

Chromatics – “Into the Black”

M. Ward – “There’s the Key”

Tame Impala – Elephant

How I Met Your Mother – Sure, everybody has used Band of Horses at some point in their show. And no, Band of Horses isn’t my favorite band. But some people like them and this song worked well against the final scenes of “Farhampton.” So, take a listen.

Band Of Horses – “The Funeral”

Bones – I’ve loved “Ho Hey” since last year when it was used on Hart of Dixie. And now the song is all over the place. David O Russell is even using it in his trailer for Silver Linings Playbook. But I have yet to get sick of the song. And that is the hallmark of a classic.

The Lumineers – “Ho Hey”

The Mindy Project – My new favorite show of the fall has some promising music. The highlight of the pilot, by far, was MIA. Poppy, fun, and slightly Indian: it represents the show perfectly.

MIA – “Bad Girls”

Private Practice – Lots of the music on Private Practice is too adult acoustic-y for me. But I managed to pick out some good ones, I think. I always have a soft spot for Bonnie “Prince” Billy and the Divine Fits song is just pure fun. Well done, Shonda Rhimes.

Bonnie “Prince” Billy – “Death to Everyone”

Divine Fits – “Flaggin a Ride”

Raising Hope – Not a show you think of for good music, but I’m cool with exceptions. This played over Jimmy’s proposal to Sabrina, and I think it’s great. And hey, I’ll take good songs where I can get them.

The Postelles – “White Night”

Grey’s Anatomy – The gold standard of good TV music is back with a vengeance. So many good choices. I’ve picked my favorites, two upbeat ones, and two sad songs that played over even sadder scenes. I love all four.

Mynabirds – “Body of Work”

Miss Li – “My Heart Goes Boom”

One Two – “Without You”

Kodaline – “All I Want”

Fringe – Another left field show in terms of music, but whatever. Only Fringe could make a new wave 80s hit into a haunting elegiac song lamenting the loss of Walter’s mind. Brilliantly used.

Yazoo – “Only You”

Parenthood – For this show, I’m four weeks behind. Yikes. Here, I’ve distilled about 16 songs into my top picks. Allie Moss because it makes me smile. Andrew Bird because, well, he’s Andrew Bird and you should like him. And Foreign Fields because it was the perfect song to play over the scene where Jasmine explains racism to Jabar. If you want to hear all the other songs I didn’t pick, head over to tunefind.com. They’re all there waiting for you to listen.

Allie Moss – “Corner”

Andrew Bird – “Orpheo Looks Back”

Andrew Bird – “Lusitania”

Foreign Fields – “Names and Races”

Well, that’s it, everybody. I definitely have some new things to listen to on my iPod, and I hope you take away some too.

Until next time,

Mary

Am I becoming one-note?

I sometimes feel that I go on about the same things all the time. But, whatever. The things I like are the things I like. And this video right here falls squarely in the like column. It also goes along with my post a few weeks ago about my favorite music of the year on TV shows. Someone was of the same mind as me, and put this little cut together, highlighting all the times Community used “Daybreak” by Michael Haggins.  Enjoy!!

Best Music of the Television Year

I know that I’ve been a little lazy in terms of reviews, but I’m holding on to the fact that I’m still up to date on music posts. Ignoring the fact that music posts take a lot less brain power than reviews, I’m still happy that I have one thing to claim.

So, with that said, I’ve been thinking back on the year, and there have been some really excellent music choices on television. My iPod, in fact, is populated mostly with these songs. Which songs, you ask?  Well, how about a top ten list?

These songs are the best choices of the year. Either they perfectly captured the mood of the show they were on or they were just really amazing songs. In the best cases, they accomplished both. I hope you enjoy these tunes as much as I did (and still do).

Now, without further ado:

The Best Songs of the TV Year

10. The Beatles “Tomorrow Never Knows” – Mad Men – If you need a song to capture the mood of the changing times of the sixties, use The Beatles. If you really want to annoy Don Draper, use a song that’s heavy on the psychedelia, like “Tomorrow Never Knows.” Nicely done, Matthew Weiner

9. Daughter “Youth” – Grey’s Anatomy – There were a lot of choices from Grey’s Anatomy. It was hard to choose just one. So, why this song? For one, I think it holds up on its own, whereas some songs on Grey’s are only good when they are playing underneath the show. For two, it’s just heartbreaking enough for me to love it. And the drum beats set everything off so well. It’s like Florence + The Machine before she became famous and overly orchestral.

8. Kurt Vile “Baby’s Arms” – Revenge – What I love about this song is the mood of it. It’s a upbeat rhythm but an a slightly minor key which makes it sound at once ethereal and melancholic and somehow heartwarming. I don’t know; it just gets to me. I’ve been listening to it since November, and I have yet to tire of it.

7. Generationals “Ten-Twenty-Ten” – Suburgatory – In the past month since this song was on Suburgatory, I’ve become a little obsessed with it (and with Generationals in general). Just try to listen to this without tapping your foot, bobbing your head and smiling. I dare you. As for me, I’ve been bouncing around my apartment, dancing to this in my pajamas. It’s that good.

 

6. Crooked Fingers “Heavy Hours” – How I Met Your Mother – HIMYM made some really excellent music choices this year. Music always been one of their strengths, ever since “This Modern Love” by Bloc Party all the way back in season one. What’s so great about this song is the scene over which it played. Robin has just chosen not to leave her boyfriend for Barney, and Barney, who had put rose petals all over Robin’s bed, has to clean up the room and himself. The song enhances the scene so well that it makes me a little teary thinking about it.

5. Beach House – “Take Care” – New Girl – The episode this song played on, “Injured,” was the episode that made me actually like this show. And I think this song had something to do with it. In the ep, it finally felt like all the characters came together and formed their own little family, and this song, which literally is about taking care of people you love, epitomized that idea. It was the icing on the cake of what I think is still New Girl‘s best episode. 

4. Other Lives “Dust Bowl III” – The Good Wife – This song is another case of the music perfectly capturing the essence of the scene under which it played. For this song, it plays when Alicia goes back to her old house and remembers the past she had there.  The rich, dusty, almost ominous tone of the tune is really amazing, and it immediately takes you in. I absolutely love it.

3. Robyn – “Dancing On My Own” – Girls – If you don’t dance listening to this in the same way that Hannah and Marnie to at the end of the episode “All Adventurous Women Do” then you should stop reading my blog. We can’t be friends. I’m sorry. Goodbye.

2. Avalanche City – “The Streets” – Cougar Town – This is one of my new favorite songs. The first week after this aired, I listened to it about 12 times. I just makes me happy down to my very core. If that’s not a vote of confidence for this song, I’m not sure what is.

1. The Gabe Dixon Band – “All Will Be Well” – Parks and Recreation – In my experience, there are certain songs that I will never get tired of. To name a few, “Rebellion (Lies)” from Arcade Fire, “The Dog Days Are Over” from Florence + The Machine, “Kids” from MGMT, “It Doesn’t Have to Beautiful” from Slow Club, and this song, “All Will Be Well” by The Gabe Dixon Band. It doesn’t hurt that this song played under one of the my favorite eps of Parks and Rec, “End of the World.” It’s just a perfect song. Hands down. No ifs, ands, or buts. (Insert other clichés here). By far the best of the year.

**Oh, and just for extra credit (and fun):

Michael Haggins “Daybreak” – Community – All you Community fans out there are grinning right now. And all you non-Community fans, what is wrong with you? Don’t you like amazing things? You’re the worst!

That’s it, folks. My choices for the year. What do you think? Did I miss a song that you absolutely loved? Do you agree with my choices, or do you think I have horrible taste in music? Wanna tell me what your favorite was? Why don’t you vote in this little poll that I’ve put together.

Slim, but Solid Pickings: It’s the TV Music for May 20-26

With most everything ending last week, there weren’t so many tunes on the tube this time around. But that didn’t stop some shows from using excellent music. Check them out below.

Girls – On theme with Hannah going back into her past, this episode used a lot of older music. However, it was the modern choices that stood out to me. The Family of the Year track is quite good, and I have to say that this band is becoming one of my favorites at the moment. Every track I hear from them is great. And while I love discovering new music, I also appreciate the old standbys. Take Fleet Foxes. Always a good choice for any situation, and I really liked this song here.

Family of the Year “Hero”

Fleet Foxes “Montezuma”

Revenge – In my opinion, this show has been a little off its game, music-wise and otherwise. However, boy did they make a comeback this week. The usage of Florence + The Machine, while not novel (I mean, she’s been used on almost every show this year), fit the scenes perfectly. Gothic, dramatic, a little over the top. It captured the feel of the show, and it was my favorite TV song choice of the week.

Florence + The Machine “Seven Devils”

Happy Summer!

Mary

Surprises and Standbys: It’s the TV Music for May 13-19

Before we go anywhere, I want to call out the best use of music of the week. It was, appropriately, on my favorite show, Community. Now, this is not a show known for its music, but the full version of the theme song that played over the end of the finale was just too perfect. I will know listen to this song on my iPod, along with my beloved full version of “Robin Sparkles”

Also, I’m trying something new: If you’re so inclined, check out these songs on my Spotify playlist. Not every track is available, but the majority are there for your listening pleasure.

Now, the list of songs after the jump.

Music, Music, Music: TV Tunes for Two Weeks (April 29-May12)

Well, because of my week off, there’s a ton of music I want to share. For some shows, I included things from two episodes, so if you’re wondering which one, check out this great resource: Tunefind.

And now, without further ado:

Under the Covers

I have a weird fascination with cover songs. I listen to a lot of them, more than most people, and I think I’m more open than my friends when it comes to messing with a familiar, often beloved song. That said, most of the time, they pale in comparison to the originals. That’s why cover songs are the stuff of shitty garage bands and wedding receptions. But sometimes, there comes a cover that is actually good. And sometimes, sometimes, I like them better than the original. (Gasp!)

What prompted this confession? Well, this week, I heard bluegrass version of Arcade Fire’s “Rebellion (Lies)” over at The AV Club. More often than not, I think the covers from that website’s “AV Undercover” program are pretty lame. No offense to the artists, but they don’t thrill me, whether they pick a song I don’t like to begin with or they just doesn’t do it justice. But this version, by Trampled by Turtles (who I had never heard of before), is unexpectedly awesome. It captures the essence of the original (which, by the way, is one of my all-time, never get sick of this, favorite songs) but it’s different enough that it sounds new and exciting. Check it out. I promise, you won’t be disappointed.

Other covers I love? You’ll make fun of me for this, but I really like Alien Ant Farm’s version of “Smooth Criminal.” There’s also José González’s “Heartbeats,” originally done by The Knife, and Cat Power’s “Sea of Love,” originally by Phil Phillips.

Oh, and I love these too:

Franz Ferdinand – “All My Friends” (Cover of LCD Soundsystem)

Florence + the Machine – “Postcards from Italy” (Cover of Beirut)

The Swell Season – “Young Hearts Run Free” (Cover of Candi Staton)

Finally, this one is just for fun. I hate Miley Cyrus, but this cover actually isn’t horrible. I apologize in advance for the fact that you’ll have this song in your head all day. I’m sorry.

Tokyo Police Club – “Party in the USA” (Cover of Miley Cyrus)

Have Gun, Will Play Music: It’s the musical wrap-up for April 22-28

Another full week, another lengthy post. It’s actually feeling rather gluttonous to have so much good music from TV shows. But, seeing that this is my main means of discovering new music, I’m exceedingly happy. Hopefully, you are too. Enjoy!!

Have Gun, Will Travel – “Blessing and a Curse” – The Good Wife – Immediately after watching this episode of The Good Wife, I spent a long time (too long) looking for this song. It was that good; I had to have it. I find myself really enjoying the indie-country genre these days. Maybe I’m just becoming a hillbilly. I’ll work on losing some teeth so I can complete the picture.

PS, sorry for the external link, but I couldn’t find this anywhere. I searched and searched and this was the best solution. Plus, spotify is kinda awesome, so you should sign up anyway.

Also, just for fun, because I only just discovered them and I like them, have another song:

Have Gun, Will Travel – “Postcards From The Friendly City” 

Generationals – “Say for Certain” – Girls – Last week, I forgot to include music from this new show. But it really does have some good tracks. It’s also a good show, as my reviews can attest. So I recommend checking it out. This track just makes me happy. What can I say? I’m a sucker for a good drum beat.

White Sea – “Overdrawn” – Girls – Another nice choice from this show. If this keeps up, I may forgive Lena Dunham for Tiny Furniture. Maybe.

The Troggs – “With a Girl Like You” – Girls – …because once a week, I’m just going to include something retro.

John Gil – “Packed Our Bags” – Cougar Town – Not my favorite track of the week, but the music on Cougar Town is always good enough to mention. I think I have an intellectual crush on Bill Lawrence. And so this is me favoring him because I like him. Consider me biased.

First Aid Kit – “When I Grow Up” – Private Practice – I have been a fan of First Aid Kit ever since I heard their cover of “Tiger Mountain Song,” originally by the Fleet Foxes.

Imperial Teen – “Don’t Know How You Do It” – Revenge – I included this just because I like Imperial Teen. I assume that’s enough reason because I’m not providing more explanation.

Devendra Banhart – Walilamdzi – Revenge – I think Devendra Banhart is rather hit or miss for me. I mean, I love “Now That I Know,” but more often than not, when I listen to a new track by him, I’m put off. Color me surprised, then, that I really like this song. Kudos to Revenge for finding one I like.

Poor Moon – “Illusion” – Grey’s Anatomy – Out of eight, yes, eight songs that were used on Grey’s this week, I only really loved three. This is the first one, and it reminds me of Andrew Bird, which is always good.

The Naked and Famous – “The Sun” – Grey’s Anatomy – I’ve like all The Naked and Famous songs I’ve heard before, and this is no exception. It’s nice to hear them go a little more sombre. It fit the scene where Arizona tells the intern that her son is going to die. Oh my God, I just got the pun. “Sun” : “son”. Get it. Someone on this show has a stupid sense of humor.

Of Monsters & Men – “Lakehouse” – Grey’s Anatomy – This played over a very strange scene (Weber cheating on his wife with Debbie Allen), but I like the song, so whatever. I’ll just focus on the track and block out all images of the show.

Til next week,
Mary

MMMBop and The National – A perfect pair: It’s the music for April 15-21

This week was chock-full of music. It’s actually quite impressive. Sorry for the glut, but I thought I would include everything I liked. Take a listen, please.

Cary Brothers “Alien” – Make It Or Break It – If only this show was as good as its music. I’ve loved Cary Brothers since Garden State and this song was very nice underneath the artistic gymnastic scene for the parents.

Matthew Perryman Jones “Waiting On The Light To Change” –
Make It or Break It  – Another great song from this show. This played at the very end when Payson is talking to her father. Just a fun, listenable song that will soon go into rotation on my iPod.

Paddy Casey “Everybody Wants” – Cougar Town – Not my favorite song of the week, but still, when Cougar Town does music, I like to take note. Plus, this song turns out to be from 1998, so kudos to Bill Lawrence for going old(ish) school.

Perfume Genius “Normal Song” – Private Practice – They used Perfume Genius on Skins this season too, and I think they are great, atmospheric songs for show. Sure, they’re depressing, but I like them. Consider me a depressive, if you will.

Dum Dum Girls “Coming Down” – Revenge – Normally, Revenge is chock full of music, but this was the only song I liked this week. Let’s bring back some more Kurt Vile next week, please.

Handsome Furs “Repatriated” – Grey’s Anatomy – Not my favorite, but still quite good. Plus, it’s a change of pace from the usual stuff on Grey’s which is mostly adult acoustic-y or female singer/songwriter. So, I liked it for that, at the very least

The National “Sorrow” – Grey’s Anatomy – To be honest, this song felt a little out of place on the show with the scenes it was put against. The scenes were too quickly paced and, well, perky. But I love The National, so here’s the song. It’s awesome by itself.

The Barr Brothers “Old Mythologies” – Grey’s Anatomy – This song is awesome. Not much else to say but that. Reminds me a lot of Mumford & Sons, and they had one of my favorite albums a few years back.

Sam & Dave “Wrap It Up” – Scandal – Thought a change of pace would be good, so here’s some old school soul. Listen to it on a rainy day.

Hanson “MMMBop” – Suburgatory – Just because. Also, I had this in my head for a full twelve hours after listening to it on the show. So, you’re welcome.

Happy listening!!

-Mary

Total Eclipse of the Heart Steals the Show: Music for April 8-14

For me, there wasn’t a breakout moment of music this week, but there were a lot of good songs. Rather than being super picky, I thought I’d just post them all. Plus, I haven’t had time to watch Grey’s Anatomy, so I’m just giving you all the songs, sight unsean.

Finally, Although I like all the songs, my favorite has to be “Total Eclipse of the Heart” from Up All Night. The song is used a ton on TV, but when Will Arnett serenades you, you take note.

Bonnie Tyler – “Total Eclipse of the Heart”  – I’m posting the clip from the show, because it’s that awesome. The official song is here. Be warned though, it’s totally 80s-tastic.

Vodpod videos no longer available.

 

Bibio – “Lovers’ Carvings” – Not the most spectacular song, but the tune played nicely under the end of the episode over on Cougar Town.

The Clash – “Death or Glory” – You can barely hear it under the dialogue, but this song plays on this week’s ep of New Girl. It’s on when right after they play their game, True American.

Brandi Carlile – “Have You Ever” – A sweet song, which played on Suburgatory.

Fun. – “All Right” – Grey’s Anatomy scene at the end when Meredith is helping the other residents study.

Youth – “Daughter” – Another one from Grey’s

JBM – Winter Ghosts – Third Grey’s song. It plays while Cristina cries and Owen holds her.