SITE DESIGNED, WRITTEN, EDITED BY JONATHAN L-WHERE THE MUSIC HITS THE FAN! ™ 2004-2005 optionsVisit the World Clock December 31 (New Year's Eve) Li Gong Also known as Gong Li. Born in 1965 in Shenyang, Lianing Province, China. Currently starring along with Michelle Yeoh, and Zhang Ziya in "Memoirs Of A Geisha". The longtime Chinese actress just "Miami Vice", and is currently filming "Young Hannibal: Behind The Mask". She lists among her favorites, Meryl Streep and Dustin Hoffman. Birtday's today: Val Kilmer, Scott Ian (Anthrax), Paul Westerberg (Replacements), Anthony Hopkins, Donna Summer, Tim Matheson, Ben Kingsley, Elaine Cassidy, Paula Barbieri, Joe Dellesandro, Bebe Neuwirth, Burton Cummings (Guess Who), Diane von Furstenberg, Andy Summers (The Police), Rosiland Cash, Barbara Carrera, Martha Byrne, Byron Russell, Anja Gebel, Joanna Johnson, Joseph McIntyre, Sarah Miles, Tony Hamilton (Aerosmith), Jennifer Hill, John Denver (R.I.P.) Q of THE WEEK (see Monday) It's not a easy Q...but I'll try. Ok...2005...of course it was my band who kept me alive...but this year Mudvayne was important to get some anger out...APC as well...baaaaaa... all the music it's important to me...soo...I just want that all this new bands could care more about music...nowadays it's only the image...and sex that sell's CD's...I really don't get it? How I miss Alice in Chains, Mother Love Bone, Soundgarden and so many others. cheers pal:)!! HAStA!! Pedro elCigano Coimbra Portugal (from myspace.com-no forwarding URL) The music that helped me thru 2005 is not just one band/singer/artist, It's a bunch of them. All the metal/alternative/rock local bands in Arizona, I've gone to most of their shows, definately over 50 of them, and have gotten to know their music, themselves, etc... and it has gotten me thru the hardest, easiest, times of 2005. Lisa Mesa Arizona www.myspace.com/xOx_Lisa_xOx Red Hot Chilli Peppers "By The Way". No matter what place my heads at it always makes me want to dance and lifts me. Happy holidays. Cool site. Huli Manchester England www.myspace.com/huli13 Kinda long story on this one. I had a lot of dots not connected about how the upbringing I knew (girl scouts, church, soccer, piano, etc) about led to who I am now. Something was missing. Then, in a LONG talk with my older sister (she's 16 years older than I am), it was all revealed: she used to watch me when I was really little to the age of 6 or 7. She would take me out to record shops, drive around listening to music, even to some seminal punk shows in the late 70s early 80s in Los Angeles. I'd be seated there on her shoulders and when I liked something, I'd rock out & when I DIDN'T, I'd pull her hair & try to hide behind her head. To boot, she sent me a collection of the music we used to listen to that I would end up singing at the dinner table, which would piss of my Mom. X, New York Dolls, Stooges, Agent Orange, Patti Smith, Sex Pistols, Clash, Ramones, Black Flag, Germs, X-Ray Spex (I guess I LOVED them) down to small bands like Simpletones, Adverts, Bags, Weasels & The Eyes. The list goes on but you get the idea. The second I put these tapes on (yes, TAPES...they're the new vinyl), I felt like a kid again. I was bouncing in my chair singing, "Take a Quaalude Now", "I Like Drugs", etc. So, long story complete, this is the music that got my through this year: reconnecting to the music I loved as a kid...and figuring out why I was drawn to the underground rock scene like a moth to light. It's what I've always known. Notorious L.I.Z. Queens New York www.notoriousradio.com Coldplay "X&Y" I love everything that Coldplay has done and this album is brilliant. I love the way it flows and every song allows me to sing a long and forget everything I am thinking about or perhaps make me think a little harder. R.Star "Songs from the "Eye of an Elephant". Most people have not heard of R.Star or his music and it is a shame. R. Star was the lead singer of the band STAGE that released an album a few years ago on Maverick records. R.Star is an amazing song writer that captures emotion like no other. He reminds me of why I love music and why I wanted to be in the music business. Songs from the "Eye of an Elephant" are raw versions of melodic and powerful songs that will move mountains even further once fully produced. It is wonderful to hear songs in their primitive form before all the "creative" minds get together to transform it. And when I say "raw versions", I do not mean any less intense. www.rstar.net. As you can see I highly recommend it. Claudine Levittown Long Island New York www.myspace.com/claudinegarver Fighting the system and shouting out about the corrupt Bush administration- Conspiracy of Thoughts Dance of the Revolution CD. "Another white man stands... power in his eyes, He got the War-lust no room to compromise, he sold his people on a pocket full of lies And now he's gone and there's no one left to terrorize. You got to open your eyes,and let the sun shine down. You got to open the door and take the streets right now YOU GOT TO STAND BACK TO BACK , BACK TO BACK, BACK TO BACK" Conspiracy of Thought "Back to Back" jointheconspiracy.com Dwight Arnold KMRJ APD/MD Sunday Night Music Meeting Host 760.778.6995 I can't say any one type music helped me. I like a lot of different types of music. Mostly old school hip hop. I love it :o) I recently lost a lot of weight and listening to music made workouts fun. LOVE all of Mariah Carey's new songs. I can listen over and over :o) It is really her voice. She has a great gift and so happy she is back on top again. Deanna Los Angeles California www.myspace.com/crazypistol PUNK SIDE STORY - Amazing!! Barry Lyons Rent A Label Venice Beach California barry@rentalabel.net NEW PHONE: 310.399.4440 December 30 Kristen Kreuk The 5' 4" actress/model was #67 on Maxim Magazine's Hot 100 List for 2005. She was born in 1982 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Kristen played Lana Lang in the TV series "Smallville". She also had a starring role in the series "Edgewood". She has done a few films such as "Eurotrip" (2004), and "Partition" (2005). She is now nthe latest spokesmodel for Neutrogena, following in the footsteps of Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Mandy Moore. Birthday's today: Tiger Woods, Tracey Ullman, Bo Diddley, Sandy Koufax, Fred Ward, Robert Quine, Patti Smith, Sean Hannity, Lebron James, Joseph Bologna, Heide Fleiss, Johnny van't Schip, Suzy Bogguss, Matt Lauer, John Hartford, Davy Jones (Monkees), Jeff Lynne (Electric Light Orchestra), Eliza Dushku, Heather Brown, Brandon Clarke, Sister Bliss (Faithless), Maureen Flanigan, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Del Shannon (R.I.P.) Q of THE WEEK: (see Monday) The new band that has helped me the most has got to be The Atomic Swindlers. It's no secret I'm helping them out with a little PR - but I'm doing it for free, it's a love over gold situation. I really do love this band. Why? First of all, the music. Listening to their CD "Coming Out Electric" I get the same excited feeling I got when I was a kid transported to the UK, hearing David Bowie, Roxy Music, and T.Rex for the first time, at the same time. April's voice is gorgeous. Comparisons to Gwen Stefani are becoming commonplace. I love the sci-fi, futurist theme in their songs and presentation. Last but not least, I love to dance to Atomic Swindlers! My cats love to dance to them as well... and you know how fussy cats are in their tastes in music. They have my vote for hottest, sexiest, most exciting new band this year. Aside from the obvious pleasure they give me, they have helped me to rediscover my original pure love of music that got me into the business to begin with. Aside from Atomic Swindlers, I have been hearing old favorites like SAHB, Stones, Syd Barrett, Toyah, early Bowie, Cabaret Voltaire, in fact all music, with very fresh ears. Everything is sounding better. My love of music has never been stronger than it is now. Music has really enhanced my happiness in a huge way this year. It's the biggest and the best high in the universe. I am a FAN again! YAY!!! This year I listened to more Stones than the past decade altogether. I can't get over how fucking great they sound. It's an incredibly exciting time for my ears. Hope everybody else has happy ears! Lots of love :-D xoxo Euterpe Vancouver British Columbia Canada www.myspace.com/euterpejones Basically Lounge music, you name it. Artist: David Morales DJ "2 Worlds Collide" pure energy Eagle-Eye Cherry "Living The Present Future" moves my body Chris Coco "Chillin At The Playboy Mansion" Sensual and dancy Nouvelle Vague "Nouvelle Vague" IT IS AMAZING!!! Broken Flowers Soundtrack BEAUTIFUL Dimitri From Paris "Sacrebleu" amusing, stylish and glam Lola Run Soundtrack help me jogging and rollerblade Diana Krall "The Look Of Love" help me to design, remember him, strech after jogging The Best Of Barry White through the melancholyc mood and strech after excercise Mireya Madrid Spain www.myspace.com/mireyanotes Music and artists that have helped me through this year. Hmmmmm . Tough question. Since I like a huge genre and am not tied down by one it makes it more difficult. Albums what is that anymore??? LOL. Mostafa Sax; I teach belly dancing and this particular has really inspired me to new heights in my teaching. Moloko; I always enjoy. Upbeat and fun. Has gotten me out of a bad mood many a time. Tribal Vixens; All woman group thoroughly empowering. Especially when dealing with a right bunch of idiots. These would be my top 3 Kathaleen United Kingdom www.myspace.com/celestianna Only music that's "helped" me through part of 2005 would have to be Depeche Mode's album "Playing the Angel". The tag-line is "pain and suffering in different tempos" and that is accurate. It's comforting, affirming and hopeful. Good stuff (as usual) from my favourite band! Louise (TGG) London England www.myspace.com/truegalaxygirl Type-O-Negative for sure. (Slow Deep and Hard)...."Unsuccesfully Coping with the Natural Beauty of Infidelity". NOT a 2005 song, but for sure helping me thru a lot! :D Damien Rice: the album "O" 38 Special: "Best of"...Just to name 3! Inge (borg) aka Princess Leia Netherlands www.myspace.com/dutchkosmik Hey Jonathan, The music that got me through 2005? Definately the new Foo Fighters album! I loved being able to listen to just the ballads on one CD or the rock on the other CD, depending on my mood. Also (and this is totally out of character for me) the Sugarbabes song "Push The Button". Usually I hate that shit and could never buy a whole album of it but I loved that single. I really don't know why, It was almost subliminal. I couldn't stop myself! I also went back to an old favourite of mine, Chris Cornell's solo album. I love his lyrics, the music on that CD really moves me. :) Kerry Wellington New Zealand www.myspace.com/cheekykez The Dangerdoom album by MF Doom and Dangermouse. It made me smile and even laugh out loud. I like music that makes me feel happy. Melanie Bass Player Solarcade Glendale California (from myspace.com-no forwarding URL) December 29 Kate Moennig The 5' 8" niece of actress Blythe Danner, is one of the main stars of the very popular show "The L Word" as Shane. Kate auditioned for "Boys Don't Cry", but lost out to Hillary Swank. She was featured in Our Lady Peace's video of "Is Anybody Home". Kate's guested on a couple of "Law and Order" episodes. She appearted in "The Shipping News" (2001), and "Invitation To A Suicide"(2004). Look for her in "Art School Confidential" in 2006. Birthday's today: Jude Law, Ali Hillis, Jason Gould, Ted Danson, Marianne Faithfull, John Voight, Laura Larson, Neil Giraldo (Pat Benatar), Mary Tyler Moore, Kalin Olson, Ray Nitschke, La Toya London, Sharon Kwok, Jan Pijnenburg, Lena Bogdanovic, Jay Fielder, Kimberly Russell, Paula Pondstone, Yvonne Elliman, Richie Sexson, Carlo Ponti Jr., Dave Gilbert, Barbara Steele, Adje Roland, Cozy Powell (Jeff Beck) Q of THE WEEK: (see Monday) 2005 Was a great year for me and luckily, there was no tragedy and no drama. So, for the most part the music that got me through this year was a mix of new and old. The new helped me to really focus on the constant change that we all undergo throughout our lifetimes, and the old helped me to appreciate where I've been and who I have grown to be. Thomas Dolby - The Golden Age of Wireless was a revisitation to earlier years in my life when things were easier and synthesizers were definitely making their move to the forefront of composition. It reminds me of the early eighties, which were phenomenal as far as music is concerned and it was a time in my life which most reminds me of current times....effortless and free. "Airwaves" is one of the most perfect highway driving songs! Kate Bush - Aerial is everything I could have hoped for from this twenty plus year music veteran who has always satiated our tastes for concept projects. She is and will always be a pioneer in my eyes for being honest and forthright with both her abilities and her emotions. This work ranks right up there with some of her best, which includes The Hounds of Love and The Sensual World. This is quiet reflective eccentricity at it's purest. Zoe Keating released her One Cello x 16 series this last year, and I love to listen to this when I am feeling calm and at peace with everything around and within me. It is the kind of songs you want to be the soundtrack when you lie in tall, green grass and bask in the warmth of the sun. Johann Johannsen - Englaborn always evokes the most beautiful images in my mind....snow and grey branches pattering out their own language against each other's branches as the wind brings them together, steamy breath from red lips that contrast against the snow and tuiet laughter. This is one of my favorite pieces of beauty to immerse myself in while photographing landscapes, and architecture. Rain Tree Crow, formed by several members of the Original Japan linup released their digitally remastered self-titled CD in 2003 and David Sylvian has never sounded better. These guys have always been a constant in my life in all of their incarnations and various solo projects. This particular CD brought me joy off and on all year. It was in constant rotation. I even listened to it while I slept and that is the ultimate homage to any album in my world. And since I could truly write this list for days, I will stop now for fear of putting folks to sleep. P.S. Just because I have listed only mellow albums here does not mean that I don't rock out. I wouldn't want to worry anyone who knows me out there by letting them think that I am getting old. Thanks J! Love, Cassandra McKinney Texas www.myspace.com/lilmissanthropy *Cassandra, your answer is the most well thought out, and articulate to date. You paint a picture with each paragraph. Thank you. -JL Top 5 to get through 05 Would have to say, Sigur Ros - Takk Uplifting music during the Rita evacuation. Neutral Milk Hotel - The Aeroplane Over The Sea Rediscovering from my collection John Coltrane - Cresent Jazz Beauty Godspeed! You Black Emperor Infinity - sounds like the end of society as we know it Tom Waits - Real Gone That's his new one of course, but Waits gets me through every year! Jason "NEEDLE DROP" 91.3-FM Beaumont Texas www.KVLU.org I am definitely with you (Needle Drop) on the Sigur Ros - Takk!! A Phenomenal Album! And, Waits is in a league of his own, just the way he likes it! Cassandra There's one artist who has helped me through this year - Bob Dylan. Especially the album Blood On The Tracks - almost too painful to listen to. It's raw, it's heartfelt, it literally makes your heart bleed. Master lyricist and poet - I bow down to you, Mr. Bob Dylan. Anja United Kingdom www.myspace.com/yippet Music that got me through 2005. Sons & Daughters "The Repulsion Box" Pistolera "Pistolera" White Stripes "Get Behind Me Satan" Katy Mae "The Lightning and the Sun" The Swear "Every Trick's A Good One" Johnny Cash "Live at Folsom Prison" Monk Music Director www.independentsonly.com Hmmm, Since I wasn't in "the biz" in 2005, I was blissfully ignorant of most new releases, but there was one release that rocked my world: Green Day's American Idiot. ( I know, it came out in Sept 2004, but whatever.) I've been a fan since Kerplunk, and have always been impressed with their consistency, but the new record blew me away. It reminded me that great music doesn't have to come from cutting-edge upstarts, and that great bands can continue to release truly great music. Everytime I listen to it, I get chills, and wax nostalgic about my misspent youth, and the soundtrack to it that Green Day was a huge part of. I'm sure I lost a million "cool" points for picking a band as "mainstream" as Green Day, but I don't think another record can touch it. Tits McGee (formely Melody Lee) Austin Texas www.myspace.com/devilgirl23 Music that helped me through 05? Well I have been travelling the whole of 2005, and being away from home, and not living anywhere permanently meant having to rely on a stock amount of albums on my iPod. Luckily I have about 100 on there, so choice wasnt a problem. The albums that I have been listening to the most have been: Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge by My Chemical Romance - A great album. I saw them a year ago in Toronto and they put on a great show. I have no time for critics, I just enjoy what I hear from these guys. Great lyrics, great tunes and with the absence of videos, I have just enjoyed the music for what it was. It has certainly travelled with me, to the Blue Mountains, to Frazer Island, to my sister's house in Windsor in the UK, and now to Auckland. Thankfully, my CD collection has just arrived from the UK, so I have been holed up at home for the last week, re-visiting old favorite songs: "The Killing Moon" - Echo and the Bunnymen " Lullaby" - The Cure "Ever Fallen in Love.." - The Buzzcocks "Grace" - Jeff Buckley "Once around the Block" - Badly Drawn Boy "Walk" - Pantera "Cicatriz" - The Mars Volta "Mirror in the bathroom" - The Beat "Peaches" - The Stranglers "Aerials" - SOAD "Killing in the Name" - Rage Against the Machine "Land of Sunshine" - Faith No More "Mother Mother" - Tracy Bonham I could go on, and I know this was supposed to be about music that was important to me in 05, but it wasn't just the music that I listened to in 05 that was important, it was the music I couldn't listen to and that I was desperately waiting to hear again!! Back off to my room now to imerse myself, see you in 06!!! Hope you had a wicked Xmas and I will be chatting to you very soon!! Sophie Auckland New Zealand www.myspace.com/sophieuk End of Love - Clem Snide. Was a perfect album to help me with a breakup and the start of a new relationship - bridged the gap quite nicely. JJ Fabini Program Director/Morning co-host WXTW Ft. Wayne Indiana www.myspace.com/jjfabini Juliette And The Licks got me through most of '05 and i had the opportunity to meet her at the Reading Festival 05 as well as getting an autograph. Other than that I can honestly say that the N.E.R.D. album Fly Or Die has been in my CD changer ALL year! I love that music so much plus anything produced by Pharrell - Snoop Dogg especially. I've just been stuck in the past a little with a lot of Nirvana / Hole / Distillers / Devo playing, not into chart at all.! Tayler Nr Brighton United Kingdom www.myspace.com/taylersuicide Sigur Ros-Takk Long-View-Further Jason Anderson-The Wreath Joey Gusto Program Director WBER Rochester New York December 28 Sienna Miller Sienna is probably known most as Jude Law's ex. After a 8 month engagemnet, Law confessed to having an affair with a nanny, Daisy Wright. Poof, went the relationship. The 24-year old was born in New York City, but raised in the United Kingdom. She was educated at Heatherfield School in Ascot, Bershire. She met Law when playing Nikki in "Alfie" (2004). The same year she played Tami in "Layer Cake". Currently Sienna is filming "Factory Girl" for 2006. Birthday's today: Denzel Washington, Edgar Winter, Willow Bay, Malcolm Gets, Stephanie Cheeva, Adam Vinatieri, Jane Alexander, Alex Chilton, John Fitgerald, Martine Robine, Elaine Hendrix, Kenneth Grant (Midnight Star), Nigel Kennedy, Lanny Poffo, Tony Rosato, Ray Knight, Terri Garber, Tannis Vallely, Maggie Smith, Daniel Avila, Hubie Green, Chad McQueen, Rosie Vela Q of THE WEEK: (see Monday) OK, Have been deeply moved by lots of music. The reasons being:- divorce, loss of a best friend, sick father, sick baby bro, loss of home, never giving up. Ok, you asked for it, here is my list. BETH ORTON, COS I FOUND HER THIS YR PETE DOUGHERTY AND BABYSHAMBLES COS HE IS A TRUE AND AMAZING TALENT ALL AMERICAN REJECTS - HARDCORE TRUTH ATHLETE - EMOTIONALLY SOUND THE DEAD 60'S - DEVOTED SCOUSER!! EELS - BLINKING LIGHTS ITS ABSOLUTELY AND UTTERLY AMAZING AND TRUTHFUL JAMES BLUNT KT TUNSTALL MAGIC NUMBERS OASIS MORNING RUNNER ARCADE OF FIRE NINE INCH NAILS - ONLY THE SUN - BLAME IT ON THE YOUTH TIM BURGESS THE BEST ABOVE AND BEYOND IS COLDPLAY X & Y Coldplay were mine and my husband's life, he left me and I couldn't listen to them for a year, too much for me, then this album, wow, I cry everytime I listen to it, it's not cos of sadness, it's just cos I am amazed. Jools Liverpool England www.myspace.com/jools66 Hey JL. The music that got me through 2005. That's actually pretty easy. It was, pretty much, 4 albums. Of course there were others, but 4 definitely set themselves apart from the pack. First, and foremost, Avenged Sevenfold. That was, by far, my favorite album of the year. So, fresh and different for 2005. Not completely original as it conjures up thoughts of Guns-N-Roses, Iron Maiden and even maybe some early punk, but it is a great fresh sounding album for the year past. Our Lady Peace is one of my favorite bands ever, so whenever they release a new album it's a good year. And this year, in particular, as good because Healthy In Paranoid Times was probably OLP's best outing yet. Then there is my boys, 32Leaves, their debut album Welcome To The Fall hit stores in Sept., but they've been entertaining my ear sockets all year, since the initial demos came back from the studio. I'm so proud of that band and the growth of the last couple years. And, finally, Nine Inch Nails. What a great album. This was the band aid album for me. It got me from the first few months of the year, after I burned myself out on 32Leaves to the later months when OLP and A7X became available. Again, there were of course others along the way, but those are the main records that got me through 2005. Polychronopolis Program Director Alternative Now/Waitt Radio Networks www.myspace.com/polychronopolis Zamfir "Master of the Pan Flute". Ok, just kidding but, those commercials always used to air during the holidays so it is a distinct holiday season memory. Surprisingly I listened to the new INXS Switch a couple of times. I wantedto hate it! But it's really good. It's not exactly Kick, or Listen Like Thieves, but songs like "Pretty Vegas", "Hot Girls" and "Perfect Strangers" are slick and sexy enough to revive Hutchence-era INXS. But that man is, of course, irreplaceable. Found myself pulling out Shabooh-Shabah. I need not say more. Ben Folds / Ben Folds Five. A variety via my iPod. I will never grow tired of my fellow Nashville citizen. And always seems to be perfect to sooth me during the stressful holiday season. When I needed swagger I reached for The CULT, also various via iPod. No explanation needed. The Cult will always rule in my little world. Russell Schenck Program Director WBUZ Nashville Tennessee My partner of 18 yrs left me. He then started seeing one of my mates!!!! Bad , bad time . So here are some of the songs that helped me through this year, good and bad times. My Happy Ending - Avril Lavigne Crawling - Linkin Park Should I Stay or Should I Go - The Clash Tears of a Clown - The Beat Ever Fallen In Love - Buzzcocks Fighter - Christina Aguilera Dance - The Lambrettas Push The Button - Sugababes You Really Got Me - The Kinks Suddenly I See - KT Tunstall There were many more!!! Cheers to all my mates ,old and new, who got me through this year, you know who you are. Life is made up of experiences and I intend to experience all the great things out there. I'M BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Cheers Jonathan xx Tracy (aka Suddenly I See) Edinburgh Scotland www.myspace.com/the bitch_ 2005: I was hoping the Fiery Furnaces new album was going to be great and was completely the opposite. LCD Soundsystem got the party started more than twice. Ringside? What the fuck didn't anyone pick up on the hits contained within that album? Louis XIV was the one great savior. Mando Diao was not a disappointment. THE WHITE STRIPES MADE THE BEST MUSIC THIS YEAR HANDS DOWN! Corey O'Brien KXRK-X96 On-Air.APD.Imaging.Sales Assistant 515 S 700 E 1C Salt Lake City, UT 84102 direct line: 801.325.3193 email: coreyx96@hotmail.com I still haven't made it through 2005. Danielle Houston Texas www.myspace.com/blondie0313babe December 27 Joanie Laurer Better known as Chyna. Born in Rochester, New York in 1969, Joanie began lifting weights at 15. Almost begun a boxing career when discoved by the WWF and Vince McMahon. She instantly became a hit as part of "Degeneration X". As her wrestling career took off she underwent major facial surgery to make her more feminine, and breast enhancement also. Has posed twice for Playboy Magazine, and a Playboy video. Has appeared in a few small films, and will be in the upcoming "Last Guy On Earth", now in pre-production. Joanie counts Jane Fonda as her idol. Birthday's today: Terry Bozzio (Missing Persons), Gerard Depardieu, Cokie Roberts, Wilson Cruz, Javine Hylton, Tabatha Cash, Peter Kriss (KISS), Jack van Gelder, Janet Street-Porter, Michael Pinder (Moody Blues), Karla Bonoff, Dean Palmer, John Amos, Mick Jones (Foreigner), Barbara Crampton, Tracy Nelson, Niels Meijer, Arthur Kent Q of THE WEEK: (see Monday) "HEY YA" Outkast! Is so uplifting and get your toes a moving and they look sooo KOOL. Shrigvamp...Bitch's...Film's London (Eastend) England www.myspace.com/shrigvamp BLONDIE - The Curse Of Blondie. This album has everything for me, it's a multi-faceted collection of emotion and energy. BILLY IDOL - Devil's Playground. Long overdue! Some great songs on here, 'Plastic Jesus' is one of my favourites. Billy still rocks! THE STIFFS - Punk Collection. This lesser known power pop punk band from the North of England were around (AND STILL ARE TODAY)in the late 70's and one of their early tracks "Innocent Bystander" sounds a lot like Greenday's "American Idiot"! Michelle Hendriks United Kingdom www.myspace.com/michellehendriks British Sea Power. His voice just makes me happy, in a way that is mostly mystifiying. dunno, it's something about being powerful and vulnerable and geeky at the same time...can't help it, I love that record. I spent 2 weeks rescuing animals in New Orleans after Katrina, and that was what I listened to in my tent at night. Yep, BSP did it for me. love, Jessica Tiny DJ Stevens Music Program Director WRIR Richmond Indie Radio PO BOX 4787 Richmond, VA 23220 listen to WRIR www.wrir.org PUNK UK SUBS, GUTTER DEMONS and THE PAGANS. Because they are the farthest thing possible from that mind blowingly bad "Some My Humps" by the Black Eyed Peas. Jenn Canada (from myspace.com-no forwarding URL) Mr. Bungle/Mike Patton Well, I can't say they actually helped me through the year, but I think Mr. Patton is brilliant and sometimes it's nice to listen to something with absolutely no hidden meaning! Hells Belle Somewhere U.S.A. www.myspace.com/bunnyrabid Oh, I always find a bit of Death Metal. Moorgate style sees me through the day. Sue United Kingdom www.myspace.com/i_fancy_girls December 26 Alexandra Rapaport Born in 1971 in Bromma, Stockholm, Sweden, Alexandra has done mostly Television in her native country. Most recently she played the role of Lina in the mini series "Medicinmannen". Her parents came from Poland. Birthday's today: Jared Leto, Steve Hartman, Lars Ulrich (Metallica), Tiffiny Brissette, Carlton Fisk, Nadia Litz, Tricia Leigh Fisher, Peter Woods (Romeo Void), Colleen Dion, Lisette Hordijk, Chris Chambliss, Michael Jones (BT Express), Anna Przybyska, Vixtoria Racimo, Cecile Bois, Ozzie Smith, John Walsh, Joyce Jillson, Kitty Dukakis Q of THE WEEK: Continues What was the music that helped you through 2005 ? Why? Believe it or not it was Cold Play. "Song Fix You" We had cancer in the family at that time and I was nursing my Mum and that song always stuck with me and always will ... and Marcy Playground. Happy tunes always made me smile. x Nick Northern Ireland www.myspace.com/pick_n_mix Music for 2005? Union Underground because their music is angry and I have felt a lot of anger this year (and last year, come to think) I play their album at full volume in the car as im driving along, singing till I'm hoarse! Also have been listening to a lot of Lifehouse, a much gentler breed of music, for those moments of reflection. An excellent version of "You belong to me". Three Doors Down remixed their brilliant "Here Without You" as a tribute to the late great Eddie Guerrero whom I adored and (no laughing!!) "3 a.m." by Busted is quite catchy. I've got it as my ring tone on my cell phone. lol. Weird Al Yankovic always makes me laugh so I'm gonna go for the eBay song as another fav for this year. Kat United Kingdom www.myspace.com/i_work_therefore_i_am Let's see, Zodiak. Because they are wonderful men who play good music and I have it bad for Stew. Tool/A Perfect Circle - because sometimes Maynard expresses my bitterness better than I do. The Tea Party - because they have the sexy rock song down to an art form. Moist/David Usher - to this day I cannot explain it but I love their music. AFI - for being first new music discovery of 2005. Jilly Tracy & The Malcontent Orchestra - for being AMAZING! Alexia San Jose California www.myspace.com/ajsaxon The album that made the biggest impression on me this year is "How I Do" by an artist named Res (pronounced "Reese"). It was released in 2001 and should have been a huge hit. Her songs are a blend of hip-hop, R&B and rock, well-produced with refreshingly smart lyrics. Lots of fat bass and drums with great melodies. She has a nice voice that reminds me a little of Stevie Nicks. I love this album and it is one of the CD's that motivates me to continue making music (not that I need much motivation!). Dina D'Alessandro Los Angeles California www.myspace.com/dinadalessndro December 25 (Christmas day) Dido Born Dido Armstrong, named after an African Warrior Queen, in London, England. Her brother Rollo is in the very cool band Faithless. She is amazing singer. I've had the pleasure of meeting her and having my arms around her in a photo. Just an awesome person. A consumate singer. Her music has been in films you have seen, such as "Love Actually", "Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason", and "Crossroads", among the many. She has had songs in many TV shows such as "Roswell and others. Funny thing, Dido was raised with no telly. Born in 1971. Birthday's today: Amy Grant, Shane McGowan (Pogues), Bernhard Jr., Barbara Mandrell, Sissy Spacek, Jimmy Buffett, Helena Christensen, Dean Cameron, Fantasia (Tonya Manley), Joop Gall, Annie Lennox (Eurythmics), Larry Csonka, Robin Campbell (UB40), Gary Sandy, Noel Redding (Jimi Hendrix Experience), Alannah Miles, Noel Hogan (The Cranberries), Kenny Everett, Henry Vestine (Canned Heat), Merry Clayton, Julie Mack, Sandy Corn HAVE THE WARMEST, SAFEST, SOULFUL, ROCKIN' CHRISTMAS OF ALL! December 24 (Christmas eve) Sophie Moone Sophie was born 1981 in Budapest, Hungry. She is a well known Adult Film star in her native country and beyond. This year she starred as herself on "Reality Porn Series 2" shown in Hungry and the United Kingdom. Birthday's today: Lemmy Kilmeister (Motorhead), Francessca Vanthielen, Peter te Bos, Ricky Martin, Mike Curb, Sean Michael, Kevin Millwood, Christina Umana, Laura Aikman, Ian Burden (HUman League, Catie Anderson, Kenny "Damn" Kelly, Sharon Farrell, Mary Ramsey (10,000 Maniacs), John Ackerman (Focus), Stephanie Hodge, Mai Le Thank you to all that answered the Q of THE WEEK. The response was so good that I will continue to post more all the way to the New Year! Everyone loves music for whatever reason, and that means everyone has an opinion. If you haven't sent yours yet, please do. So, look for more next Monday. Have an awesome Christmas eve. December 23 Estella Warren Canadian actress was born in Peterborough, Ontario in 1978. Estella was a synchronized swimmer from the age of 7 to 17. You might recall seeing her in "Kangeroo Jack" (2003), "Planet Of The Apes" (2001), "The Cooler" (2003), and TV show guest stints on "Law & Order", "Ghost Whisperer", and "That 70's Show", among others. Look for her in "Glamorama" now in pre-production, as as well as "Pre Approved", already in post-production. Birthday's today: Victoria Williams, Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam), William Sinot (Shamen), Susan Lucci, Hans Tentije, Jorma Kaukonen (Jefferson Airplane), Elizabeth Hartman, Keiji Muto, Joan Severance, Cory Haim, Adrian Belew, Dave Murray (Iron Maiden), Martha Byrne, Tatsumi Fujinami, Jim Harbaugh, Jennifer Van Dyck, John Callahan, Luther Grosvenor (Spooky Tooth), Harry Shearer (SNL, Spinal Tap), Peter Quaife (Kinks) Q of THE WEEK ROLLS ON: (see Monday) Hmmm, great Q Gigwise it's been an awesome year for me here in the UK... System twice, Donnington, Opeth, Lamb Of God and the MIGHTY god forbid... Otherwise 2005 was def not my year tho. But what's got me thru? I think it's Killswitch, track "End Of Heartache". They rocked at Donny, and I've had LOADS of major probs this year. That song has helped me every single time. And, that's about it! :-) Caz Cornwall United Kingdom www.myspace.com/cazfromcornwall I can't say I have any one favorite artist or album. Actually, I have many favorites, too many to list. I listen to music from many different cultures around the globe. Not big on alot of the hard head banging trash with the nasty foul language in it that the kids around here listen to today. I don't consider that music though. Music is something that soothes and relaxes your soul and mind. CrazyMagicLady Horseheads New York www.myspace.com/crazymagiclady Europe album start from the dark:- It was a suprising new sound from a great band relesed in late 2004. I played it all through 2005. Some fantastic lyrics and sounds still playing it now!! HIM Dark light:- amazing CD. Dark lyrics that never fail to make me listen. I'ts a melancholy drift that actually cheers me up!! xx Maiden71 United Kingdom www.myspace.com/maiden71 For me it would of been Green Day, Avril Lavigne, My Chemical Romance, and Gwen Stafani, and lots of Stones and Beatles in the background. Audra Winnipeg Canada (from myspace.com-no forwarding URL) HIM definitely. The new album Dark Light was the highlight of 2005 for me. Now looking forward to 19th Jan. for the gig. Thanks xx Sheila Stirling United Kingdom www.myspace.com/sheila_robb Hey Jonathan, Music is my sanity. This year I've been jumping thru the past going from Dave Matthews Band to Pink Floyd to Garth Brooks and anything in between. I think my theme song for 2005 is "Scars" by Papa Roach. (Stolen from my sister, but for different reasons.) I've come to realize I can't really help anyone else to "fix" themselves. I can only fix me and hell I'm not broken (at least not more so than expected). The line "My weakness is that I care too much" is basically my line for life although I've come to realize that's rare. Most people just don't care enough ... about others or even themselves. Sometimes you just have to let go and move on with life; never forgetting where you came from and the fires that forged you. "And our scars remind us that the past is real" Be it heaven or hell we've all got the scars from our past and I'm wearing mine like badges of honor. Either way the hard part's over, the holidays are here and it's time to rock our way into the new year and see what wicked and wild memories we can make!! Best wishes & sweet thoughts, Candy Hialeah Florida (from myspace.com-no forwarding URL) 30 Seconds To Mars - A Beautiful Lie Reason is that the album is absolutely amazing and the band members make everything beautiful. They are kind, honest, and very appreciative of people like my self who want to support them. They gave me more of a reason to find bands to help out in this business. Alkaline Trio - The Crimson One of the best punk rock albums in the last 10 years! Queens of the Stone Age - Lullabies to Paralyze It's Queens...Enough Said! Gabby x1039 KMBY Monterey California www.myspace.com/radiogabby December 22 Jennifer Hawkins This wholesome beauty was Miss Universe 2004. The former Newcastle Knights cheerleader was born in Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia in 1983. Jennifer has done quite a bit of television in her native country. Birhthday's today: Mia Tyler, Trinity Styles, Susan Powter, Tracy-Louise Ward, Ricky Ross, Deacon Blue), Vanessa Paradis, Ralph Fienes, Barbara Billingsley, Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick), Steve Garvey, Marianne van Wijnkoop, Tyrell Biggs, Robin Gibb (Bee Gees), Joanna Hughes, Lenny Von Dolen, Michael Osborne (Axe), Diane Sawyer, Steve Carlton, Joe Pyne (R.I.P), Maurice Gibb (Bee Gees R.I.P.) Q of THE WEEK (see Monday) I would have to say, I've always been a club kid growing up and loved danceclub music. Madonna's new CD hits the mark for me. All her somgs are upbeat, danceable and mixed really well. It's great to play non stop and picks you up you know? Like, there's a feel good kinda vibe to it. So whenever I feel down...all I need to do is pop it in my CD player and let it play on my surround system. ~Kisses. Harajuku Tgirl Hudson County New Jersey www.myspace.com/trannygurlinnj Hmm, like usually industrial-experimental & minimal wave, specially old analogic ones. Hmm, too many of themmmm....I love so much bands and projects, I don't like to reduce it to just one. Echo Frau France www.myspace.com/ErszebetX U2 Maroon 5: U2: "How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb" Their music has soul, Bono's voice is full of emotion and his words have such deep meaning Annie Marleau Burlington Ontario Canada www.myspace.com/anniemarleau Hi my friend, My year has been going from bad til better and hopefully really good when the new year starts ...(smile) :) So, lately I have been listening to a lot of new music with artists that I have never heard before. I can't really remember what I listened to in the beginning of the year but here are some of the latest artists and songs. Oh yeah, in the beginning of the year it was: Nikola Sarcevic- solo CD from the singer of Millencolin. Really sad love songs. After the summer: Blue Foundation - "My Day" "End of The Day (Silence)". Laleh - "Live Tomorrow". K's Choice - "Weak" (Skunk Anansie cover live) Hello Saferide - "My Best Friend" "Highschool Stalker" "San Francisco". Shout Out Louds - "The Comeback" Madonna - "Isaac" "Like It or Not" Love hurts...(smile) :) that's all I can say. It's so obvious when I see the songs I have mentioned here. It starts with sad love songs and in the end it's more commercial songs. Ha ha ...it's good to heal. Take care friend! Rockerz Sweden www.myspace.com/www.rockerz66 The Cure: "Strange Attraction" and EVERTHING by Tear Garden! Trillian United Kingdom www.myspace.com/sexyspacecadet Hi Jonathan, The music that has helped me through this difficult year is sweet Doo Wop. It is music that heals a brocken heart and gives hope of finding true love! X Voodoodoll United Kingdom www.myspace.com/leopardlegs December 21 Jane Kaczmarek She will go down in American Pop Culture as one of the funniest "moms" on TV. For years her facial expressions and screaming as 'Lois' on "Malcolm In The Middle" will forever be remembered. Born in 1959 and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Jane has appeared as a guest or recurring role on probably every TV show ever made in the past 20 years or more. -LOL She has done film and stage in New York and Los Angeles. Married to actor Brad Whitford and they have a 19-month old daughter Frances. Birthday's today: Julie Delpy, Jane Fonda, Samual L. Jackson, Lisa Gerritsen, Nicola C. Hindshaw, Joe Paterno, Chris Evert, Ervin Johnson, Phil Donahue, Roger McDowell, Jim Rose, Dave Kingman, Christy Forrester, Karrie Webb, Francis NG, Shyla Foxx, Dan Frye, Jared Martin, Anne Engelke, Ray Romano, Andy Dick, Elle, Frank Zappa (R.I.P.), Carl Wilson (Beach Boys R.I.P.) Q Of THE WEEK (see Monday) Metal Church Album: Weight of the World Because they touched my soul. Never get tired of listening to it. Their music goes right through you. Jeanette Amsterdam Netherlands www.myspace.com/jeanette117 Mostly Punk and Metal Misfits~ Walk Among Us Distillers~Every thing they put out Loud , Fast Ramones.There toughest hits. Metallica~St Anger System Of A Down~All the CD's I have by them I think I relate to this type of music more I'm going through a lot of changes in my life and can relate to the angist and anger of some. And, the contemplativeness of others. Plus I've always believed hard fast and loud is better. Theresa Illinois www.myspace.com/jem3 Stillhaven. "Outside The Gray" and "State Of Blank". Because those boys acted as my family especially over 2005, their music helped me through. Also Jim Croce. After a long week without sleep, a friend of mine and I sat doing a lot of drugs, listening to depressing music and chainsmoking. He played this song and just as it was perfect at the time for all I was telling him... it still holds true, although I am a native New Yorker. The song was "New York's Not My Home". This song helped me get over some of the bad things that happened last year and move forward and furthermore on to California. Sometimes old music works like that. kayla-jane-DANGER California www.myspace.com/_just_jane_ American Head Charge. They are my life line! They help me deal with all the shitty new music that's coming out. I'ts good to know there are still some true bands that have minds. Clowngirly Minneapolis Minnesota www.myspace.com/clowngirly Hey there Jonathan, Hope your having a great week! Music thats helped me through 2005..........would have to be Tigertailz. Albums, Bezerk, Banzai, Original Sin and Young & Crazy. Also Ramones and Hanoi Rocks have figured too, though Tigertailz is almost a daily thing. Because their music makes me feel happy and relaxed, makes me want to dance, go out, go wild, it uplifts & elates me. It does everything I want it to do for me and never makes me sad or feel the need to change the CD. I'm so glad that both Tigertailz bands are still around, I've never found anything that makes me feel the same during all the years from the 80's til now, though one whose tracks holds me there so far is "Fillmore Slim", I really like their sound and can't wait for the CD to be ready after the new year. Hope you & your family have a lovely Christmas :) Hugs x ArenA Derbyshire United Kingdom www.myspace.com/arenacreations I don't understand you sir, which music are u talking about??? Ahoo Palos Verdes California (from myspace.com-no forwarding URL) *After 3 e-mails back and forth, this as far as I got-LOL -JL Hi babe pleased to meet you. Any fan of Rammstein's is welcome here. I saw them last February. Totally wild. I have been following them for the last 4 years and they just rock!!! 1 Well, it gunna be Rammstein 2 Rammstein 3 Every CD but my fav has to be Mein Teil 4 Why, because they take me away from here into a world that is just like no other. Hope that helped. I know you prob guessed I would say that but I just live and breath them. Have a bangin X-mas babe. xoxox ShAzNay (PFFG) Lancashire United Kingdom www.myspace.com/m_shaznay December 20 Amanda Swisten The 5' 9" beauty has done some film and TV work, such as William Hung's "Hangin' With Hung", where she played herself. Born in New York City, New York in 1978. The facinating thing about Amanda is that she writes a regular column for Maxim Magazine in the UK, on serial killers. Birthday's today: Nicloe de Boer, Zoe Warner, Billy Bragg, Ashleigh Caldwell, Mia Beck, Travis Green, Claudia Jennings, Alan Parsons, Alex Chilton, Kyuk Jang, Sergio Vastano, Uri Geller, Blanche Baker, John Fitzgerald, Ed Kuepper (Saints), Peter Criss (KISS), Bobby Colomby (Blood, Sweat and Tears), Rich Gannon, Lucy Pinder, Bonnie Marino, Robert Cavanah, Jenny Agutter, Mike Watt (Minutmen/ Firehose), Catherine Porter Q of THE WEEK (see Monday) Metal ! Avenged Sevenfold- City of Evil, Trivium- Ascendancy, Slayer- All, Children of Bomdom - All. Just gave me something to put all my frustration into and it inspires my bands. Jako St. Albert Canada www.myspace.com/whorenamedjako Which artists? Meshuggah - Choasphere, Nothing, I, Catch 33 Jeff Buckley - Sketches for my Sweetheart the Drunk, Grace Mastodon - Leviathon Lamb of God - Ashes of the Wake Citizen Cope - The Clarence Greenwood Recordings Soilwork - Stabbing the Drama The Haunted - Revolver Soul Coughing - Ruby Vroom (never gets old) Detox - No album yet but being in this band has really kept me on track. Why? Bad politics, untimely demises, and major disasters made an unusaly large doseage of HEAVY music greatly needed to get through this year. Although some introspective mellowness came in handy as well. I also find more comfort than anything while screaming my head off for my band DetoX which brings me more musical satisfaction than anything in my iPod. And in closing R.I.P. Dimebag, Carly and Hairy Darrin. Matt Ward DetoX Vocals Phoenix Arizona www.myspace.com/detoxmatt666 Okydoky, music that got me through the year. Can't remember album name but right now its "I will survive" by Cher (don't ask!!!) Other albums are "Ultimate" Kylie Minogue and "Immaculate" by Madonna and of course "What Dreams Are Made Of" by Zoya-laken, my daughter. Samantha Cape Town South Africa www.myspace.com/coogirlcc Disco music is getting popular in 2005. Who are the artists and albums? Franz Ferdinand, Madonna, The Bravery, Mylo, Vitalic. Describe why? Club night event's are border less styles. If I go to clubs, I can hear both of rock and dance on same floor. I love that style. Setsuko Tokyo Japan (from myspace.com-no forwarding URL) I'm into Industrial, EBM and Synthpop. Many who don't listen to the genre consider it mindless "bleepy shit". It's not. I had a hard time at work through much of 2005. I found myself living with a great deal of stress and due to this and general tiredness I turned my back on the more spiritual side of me as I just wasn't "feeling it". This is where my music helped me. Music has been many things for me this year. One thing it has achieved is helping me to switch off and be somewhere else with banging tunes and happier climes. They've given me the energy and strength to deal with arses at work, and they've given me back the spark I lost. Below are the bands and albums that have helped and changed me the most and why. VNV Nation - "Empires' & 'Praise The Fallen" Combichrist - "Everybody Hates You" These are the type of albums with huge ravey synths, big bad drums and kick arse attitude lyrics. If I know I'm going to have a bad day at work I'll listen to one of these on the way down and by the time I go in I'm ready to take on the world. Combichrist are evil and twisted and make me grin while imagining what I'm doing to the colleague I'm forced to be civil with on the surface. VNV Nation give me the power to get through the day by their driving music and allow me to rise above it all with their meaningful lyrics and overall message of 'victory not vengeance' (It's what the VNV stands for). VNV Nation - "Future Perfect" Assemblage 23 - (any) These have songs that sing to the morose element of my soul. A large part of my personality is quietly depressed, I have issues. Both these albums have helped me face them, held my hand and helped me heal them. For that I will be forever grateful. VNV Nation - "Matter & Form" This album wasn't a huge favourite of mine until one night I sat and actively listened to the lyrics. It's like a lightbulb went off in my soul. I was floating. It's the most uplifting album I have ever heard. It's spiritual, beautiful and awoke again the part of me that used to be love & light. I missed that spiritual high. I have it back now. Again, I'll be forever grateful. There are many songs by other bands that have helped me in one way or another over 2005, but I have kept it down to the ones that have had the most impact. EBM and Synthpop aren't just 'bleepy shit', they're life altering, soul connecting, meaningful tunes. And even the ones that are kick arse for being kick arse sake, they're still kick arse! And some, like Combichrist, make me want to do very naughty things to my soulmate. >:o) Gabi Manchester England www.myspace.com/spikednbloody Hi babes xx, hope all is well :-) Music that got me through this year was Black Label Society, Him, but mainly my older favs - Pearl Jam and Temple Of The Dog. Wasn't the greatest of years for me but 2006 is gonna rock!!!! xx Helz Midlothian United Kingdom www.myspace.com/hippyhelz The song that got me through this year must be James Blunt - "You're Beautiful". Because I split up with my man and I didn't feel beautiful anymore but listening to this song made me believe I am...and I have met someone else. He said this song reminds me of him!! Leemee Hong Kong (from myspace.com-no forwarding URL) I don't really use music as a way to get through. I listen to it because I enjoy and appreciate it really...more than it being a crutch. My favourite album of the year is Lazarus Blackstar "Revelations", its fantastically crushing and evil and I can't get enough of it. But, then again, I'm very biased being married to one of the guitarists...lol I also liked Disturbed's "10,000 Fists" and the Alter Bridge album. And, onto a completely different genre...Damien Rice's "O", which is a fabulous album, and I listen to it a lot. Juicy...Bunny Boiler Slayer Bradford, Yorkshire England www.myspace.com/juicyjen3675 December 19 Alyssa Milano The 5' 3'' Italian born in Brookyln, New York in 1972, is noted as one of the most popular child actors of all-time. Played Tony Danza's daughter on the TV series "Who's The Boss" from 1984-1992. Also starred on Melrose Place for 1997-98 seasons. Currently she is one of the stars of the very popular show "Charmed". She was and still is the 1-800-Collect girl. Her favorite sport is Hockey, and she plays piano and flute. Birthday's today: Lauren Petty, Kristy Swanson, Chris Robinson (Black Crowes), Jennifer Beals, Tim Reid, Reggie White, Zac Foley (EMF), Wendy Miles, Warren Sapp, Alvin Lee (10 Years After), Cicely Tyson, Limahl (Kajagoogoo), Tom Gugliotta, Jake "The Snake" Plummer, Elaine Joyce, Robert Urich, Jessica Steen, Janie Fricke, Al Kaline, John McEuen (Nitty Gritty Dirt Band), Phil Ochs (R.I.P.) Q of THE WEEK: will continue during the Holidays What music helped you get through 2005 and why? Surprisingly enough, I would have to say I didn't buy 1 album this year, instead I stalked the college radio's all around the USA all day long at work and found that I: 1. Hate the Decemberists and hate their band name 2. Really like Wolf Parade despite the fact that they are Canadians 3. Can't believe Bright Eyes has put out so many albums that make me wanna puke 4. Can't name one really good ol rock n roll band that came out this year off the top of my head 5. Wish the DJ's weren't so monotone but glad they don't sound like classic rock DJ's I don't really think I answered your question, so I guess I would go with Wolf Parade's apologies to the Queen Mary because I'm still not sick of the songs they play on the radio and they totally surprised me with a nice ambiant record. *Trish, yes you did. And, damn good I might add.-JL Tricia Vicious Houston/Pasadena Texas (from myspace.com-no forwarding URL) Howdy Jonathan, Hope all's well with ya! As far as musica this year, I have a few: My Morning Jacket "Z" - Simply a phenomenal piece of work that I fully expect to be listening to decades from now. Gang of Four "Return the Gift" - The seminal post-punkers return to form in a major way with these new renditions of old favorites...check it out in 5.1 for the full effect. Living Things "Ahead of the Lions" - Fun, groove-ridden rock with a splash o' T-Rex and leftist political leanings...unfortunately, they're on Jive, which has yet to break a rock act. Kasabian "Kasabian" - Saw 'em at Coachella and immediately bought the album at the Virgin ministore on the site. Fun stuff, good vibe. Dramarama "Everybody Dies" - Even though I've had the rough mixes for over two years, it's cool to hear a mastered version! The Lamented "The Lamented" - Great garage rock from the O.C.--check 'em out at www.myspace.com/thelamented. Hope you enjoy the best o' holiday seasons, and a great year in '06! Best, Tom Hollywood California www.myspace.com/switters I rediscovered Tenpole Tudor! Remembering bopping round to "Swords of a Thousand Men" at school discos really makes me smile!...aaah, takes me back to my youth....not that i ever grew up mind!! *I know know why we connect so well. I used to play the shite out of TT back years ago. I will have to dig some up for my radio show.-JL Sister Sarah Wirral United Kingdom www.myspace.com/stinglestick JL!!!!! First of all, a belated thank you for playing F&J for me last weekend, and thanks for the shout out! Following it up w/ Scatterbrain was great. I hadn't heard "Don't Call Me Dude" in years!!!!! And of course MLB was wonderful as well. ANYHOO...music that got me thru 2005. Pretty much all of it, but at the moment two bands come to mind, one being Inkubus Sukkubus. Christians have their contemporary inspirational artists (Michael W. Smith and the like), but Inkubus Sukkubus is the Pagan equivalent to that, and songs like "Supernature", "Heartbeat of the Earth", and "Wytches" are very powerful and inspirational on a spiritual level for me. SECONDLY, The Dresden Dolls has left a big impact on me this year as well. I just recently moved out of my g/f's house after a tumultuous 4 year relationship and I am learning how to be independent again and survive on my own and care for my two children. The Dresden Dolls' song "Good Day" has become my anthem and I will play it on the stereo at home and scream every line loudly and proudly! ("I'd like to do more than survive, I'd like to rub it in your face!"...etc.) MG Peoria Arizona www.myspace.com/raevynwitch Hi, This year has not been an easy one for me and I am so glad its almost over. Hopefully next year will be a better year. Some of the songs that have helped to cheer me up this year include : Kanye West ~ "Gold Digger" Red Hot Chili Peppers ~ "Fortune Faded" Bobby Valentino ~ "Tell Me" Gorillaz ~ "Feel Good Inc." Have a great Xmas and a wonderful new year Dee United Kingdom www.myspace.com/deeuk Earshot, even thought they didn't get the backing from Warner they deserved. I would have lost my mind without that album earlier this year after getting out of a horrible relationship it was my therapy. Anyways, I think what you're doing for the music community in Phoenix is fantastic! We'll all keep trying to get it the recognition it derserves, someday soon it may just happen! KUPD rocks and is defintitely one of the best in the country, much better then the legendary KROQ! Can't wait to move back to Phoenix! Happy Holidays, AnglorDvl Huntinton Beach California www.myspace.com/anglordvl *Thanks Anglor, KUPD does rock. Good, when you move back, I will have another listener, :-) -JL December 18 Christina Aguilera The popular pop singer was born on Staten Island, New York in 1980. She is bilingual, and is from an Irish and Ecuadorian decent. She sights some of her inflences as Etta James, and Billie Holiday. Her breakthrough hit was "Genie In A Bottle" back in 1999. Her concert rider demands various health foods, Flintstone chewable vitamins, and soft drinks, Coca Cola or Nesquick. No Pepsi for Christina. She has two Papillon dogs, Chewy and Stinky. Birthday's today: Katie Holmes, Naomi Lang, Brad Pitt, Keith Richards, Steve Austin, Ray Liotta, Trish Status, Steven Spielberg, Kiefer Sutherland, Michael J. Moocock, Bryan "Chas" Changler (The Animals), Rob Van Dam, DMX, Joe Randa, Barrie Chase, Bill Nelson (Be Bop Deluxe), Ken Foreman (Thrashing Doves), Leonard Maltin, Elliott Easton (Steinberg -Cars), Sam Andrew (Big Brother & The Holding Company) Okay, don't listen to radio much, there's way too much news on, I mean every half hour, really, is that necessary? But I always switch on for the Nigel Pearce show. He's on in the morning's when I take the kids to school and his slogan is "I'd rather be pearced off than pearced on" (say it fast) and that's what he does. He's hilarious only because he dares to say what others won't, and he's got a really infectious laugh and always puts me in a good mood for the rest of the day. Samantha Cape Town South Africa www.myspace.com/coogirlcc Hey Jonathan, In an effort to expand my musical tastes (and because I was so curious about your show) -- I'm listening to your show and just heard the song "The Angel"