Good lord, I've neglected this. Since I'm back in the same position that I was in when I started this, it's the perfect time to resume writing since I need that stimulation and sense of accomplishment.
AND I've got a ridiculous amount of music to listen to. 13 albums, over ten hours, to be exact that I am plowing through this Thanksgiving break. I think I'm halfway through...
But I shall resume this with the song I am currently listening to. Runaway by Kanye West. And it's so damn good. His latest album got a 10.0 from Pitchfork, which is a big fucking deal. I've almost listened to all of it, all of which is great, but the real highlight is Runaway, a nine minute epic which was made into a 35 minute epic video (which I really need to see).
The song begins and is anchored by a simple keyboard plucking melody that is basic in all senses, but it's crisp, clear notation gives the song a stark and simple dimension that is so unique compared to the lavish production quality of many hip hop songs today. Then this shouting voice echoes and spins around your head while Kanye asks you to raise your glass to the douchebags, scumbags and assholes of the world. And you can't help but oblige him. I also love the ending with some real psychedelic electric guitar work covering the plunking piano in a fantastic swirl.
I really respect Kanye for his music, which allows me to look past his outward persona which can be overbearing at times to use a grand understatement. He's really got a finger on the pulse of all types of music. He has Bon Iver guest on the album for god's sake.
For another highlight of the album, check out Nicki Minaj's verse on Monster. Mind blowing.
