Random 10 for April 22, 2009

1. Lily Allen, “The Fear”

I tried resisting George’s brainwashing tactics as much as I could, but the last record finally turned me into a committed Lilliputian. Infectious melody, razor-sharp lyrics and loaded with attitude. What’s not to be entranced by?

2. The Fiery Furnaces, “Oh, Sweet Woods”

3. The Mull Historical Society, “The Final Arrears”

4. The Specials, “Nite Klub”

5. X, “The World’s a Mess, It’s in My Kiss”

I’m not really certain why this percolating, ultra-caffeinated punk gem is so powerful and weirdly relevant, but there yah have it. The clip, incidentally, is from the 1986 documentary, X: The Unheard Music.

6. Professor Longhair, “How Long Has That Train Been Gone?”

7. The Go-Go’s, “Turn to You”

Go ahead and smirk if you must. I make no apologies. Oh, and trivia buffs, take note: the video features a young Rob Lowe about a year before stardom really hit with …About Last Night– and a good three years before his sexcapades in a hotel room at the Democratic National Convention.

8. Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, “Good Loving Ain’t Easy to Come By”

9. Camper Van Beethoven, “Une Fois”

10. Bruce Springsteen, “Downbound Train”

– Chase