Vinyl Spotlight: My Personal Collection

The reason I began this blog is because of my love of music. The one thing I haven't really touched on, however, is my love for records in particular. I have an ever expanding collection, ranging from Frank Sinatra to Gotye, and I must admit - I find it a better way to listen to music.

Most people would argue it is better because of the sound quality. Although I don't deny this might be true, I find a deeper reason for loving my turntable. It's the experience of music you don't get anywhere else. A lot more love and care is taken by placing the huge disk on its platform, placing the needle gently on its edge. I find that when I listen to a vinyl, its not just music to nod along to in the background. It overshadows the entire an atmosphere, almost like a grand fireplace.  For me, it makes me feel at home.

It is also great to highlight albums in particular. I must admit, I was the worst for picking highlight tracks and sticking with them, never bothering to listen to a full album as, in honesty, I could never be bothered. It was my worst habit as a listener, and through discovering vinyl I also discovered the merits of letting an album flow seamlessly through its story.

The vinyl that started this all off was The Flaming Lips' Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots (the super special red edition)

 

This is, by far, my favourite Flaming Lips LP. Now, usually, I would just listen to 'Do You Realize?' and perhaps 'Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots Part 1' from time to time, without really giving the rest of the album a look in. However, when this was played to me on vinyl it was something else. The strange but happy beats filled the room, making everyone in it seem bouncier and that bit more vibrant a technicolour. This album taught me not to skip (well, Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots Part 2 might be an exception), and taught me the value of a full, untouched album. And for that, to the Flaming Lips, I would be forever grateful.

 

Literary iPod: Jay Gatsby

 
It's no longer news that Baz Luhrmann is adapting The Great Gatsby into a Hollywood production early next year. I was excited at this prospect, before it was revealed that this 'Gatsby' remake will be backed by modern music (although it will still be set in the 1920's... what's the logic?). Although, to me, doing it like that made as much sense as a chocolate teapot, I thought I'd do some research and try to discover what music will be blaring at Gatsby's parties. Surely something big band - something jazz influenced with grand, expensive sounds?

Unfortunately, no. Instead of the warm, rich brass sounds we instead get synthetic beats. Artists such as Jay Z, Kanye West and Jack White (albeit covering U2) all grace Gatsby's playlist, and it just doesn't sit right with me. So, I decided to make my own version of Gatsby's personal playlist as part of my Literary iPod posts.

1. Big Spender - Shirley Bassey

This is everything Gatsby thinks he needs to be for Daisy. His whole identity is constructed to be this 'big spender'. He would probably listen to this and imagine himself surrounded by wealth, being pursued by that one woman he wants. When he eventually does become that, he would listen to his song as a way to celebrate.

2. I Can't Get Next to You - The Temptations

This mirrors his obsession, his frantic need to be with Daisy. No matter what feats he has accomplished, Daisy is still as far away as ever. This version suits his more passionate, frustrated moments, whereas I couldn't resist thinking of him floating on his pool listening to the Al Green version (below) and thinking of that green light.

3. The Wee Small Hours - Frank Sinatra

An absolute classic, I think Gatsby would lie on his bed, lonely, going over his times with Daisy in his head. The lyrics 'you'd be hers if only she would call' are chillingly beautiful, especially if seen in relation to his plight. On a personal note, this is one of my absolute favorite songs - a timeless classic that will always remain untouchable, no matter what the latest trend in music is.

4. Dream a Little Dream - Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

After his reunion with Daisy, Gatsby would probably listen to this song as a reminder of their love. He would probably imagine Daisy thinking of him while lying in bed next to her husband, listening to this as a reminder that he owns her heart. He wants her to be obsessed with him as much as he is with her, which brings another layer into this already gorgeous song.

5. Money - Pink Floyd

Although different to everything else I put on this list, I can't listen to this song without thinking of, arguably, the greatest materialist in literature. Although more contemporary than other songs on his playlist, this song will remain forever timeless with its simple backing. Oh, and of course Gatsby would just love to hear the sound of the cash register on repeat. An obsession with money would probably make that one of his favorite sounds in the universe.

Due to the great reception these posts are receiving, I will be sure to do more :) So stay tuned!