Song
Big Blue Ball by Big Blue Ball
Back story
Big Blue Ball is not a group per se, but rather a set of recordings resulting from workshops hosted by Peter Gabriel at Real World Studios. In the early 90s, these retreats yielded many unusual pairings, and eleven of these songs were produced and saw the light of day in 2008. Musicians and artists from all over the world participated, and Peter claims it was among the most rewarding events of his career.
Why this song
The title song features Karl Wallinger on lead vocals and Manu Katche on drums. The drumbeat and keyboards wouldn’t be out of place on a Peter Gabriel solo record. But this song offers a lightness and positivity sometimes missing from his solo work. For anyone interested in exploring global music, yet also wants a somewhat familiar sound, this release provides an easy introduction.
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What is ‘laughing matters’ all about?
For this series of posts, I am going to feature something lighthearted and possibly ridiculous, related to music, of course.
Song
Cheap Reward by Elvis Costello (featuring guest vocalist Stephen Colbert). Start watching at the 4:18 mark to see the performance.
Back story
Stephen Colbert occasionally has musical guests on his show, even joining in once in a while, but rarely takes the lead vocal. Elvis is on the talk show circuit these days plugging the 1st season DVD of his own show, Spectacle. His voice was too thrashed to sing, so Stephen giddily volunteered if Elvis played guitar. Surely it was rehearsed, but entertaining nonetheless.
Why this song
This song is an outtake from Elvis’ debut, My Aim is True. It is hard to find these days, but is worthwhile if you can find it. Elvis is more relaxed these days, and Stephen shows he can carry a tune, as well as being heartfelt. All in all, it is a funny and good performance.
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