Benjamin Kassel
I needed the calmness of "Black Water" tonight
I'm stressed as [CENSORED]. This Doobie Brothers gem helped mitigate that a bit.
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Benjamin Kassel
- Feb 16, 2022
- 4 min
On "Dirt," Keane are true to themselves as they decry an all-too-familiar conflict
Their title track from last summer's EP has an unavoidable gravitas as it speaks to the fallout the innocent suffer from war.
Benjamin Kassel
- Jan 29, 2022
- 3 min
On the soul masterpiece that is "Midnight Train to Georgia"
Gladys Knight & the Pips' classic combines outstanding vocals with a compelling lyrical narrative that has a surprising twist in its chorus.
Benjamin Kassel
- Jan 28, 2022
- 3 min
"I Want to Know What Love Is," a power ballad that's more than a cut above
Foreigner put lyrics first en route to creating one of the greatest love anthems in all of popular music.
Benjamin Kassel
- Jan 23, 2022
- 4 min
An examination of 'art pop' through "Running Up That Hill"
I examine why Kate Bush's work stands out from that of her contemporaries through one of her most successful songs in the mainstream.
Benjamin Kassel
- Jan 16, 2022
- 3 min
"Maybe Tomorrow" is 00s alt with a 70s soul
Kelly Jones and Stereophonics call back to the generation before them with their R&B influenced post-Britpop.
Benjamin Kassel
- Nov 27, 2021
- 6 min
'Innovative' doesn't even begin to describe "I'm Not In Love"
Nor does 'unique' or another similar adjective. 10cc's masterpiece merits so many more words, given its story, sound, and lasting impact.
Benjamin Kassel
- Nov 14, 2021
- 3 min
As the Temptations say, "Get Ready" for what lies ahead in the near future
In my excitement for this coming week, I hear this tune capturing my eagerness to go full speed ahead into these next few days.
Benjamin Kassel
- Oct 21, 2021
- 4 min
"People, I've been sad" perfectly captures how the world has been as of late...
Last year, Christine and the Queens delivered a song which became increasingly poignant in the months following its release.
Benjamin Kassel
- Oct 9, 2021
- 5 min
"DEAD RIGHT NOW," a reflection on fake friendship and love in the wake of stardom
One of the many highlights on Lil Nas X's debut album, its personal narrative stands out to me.
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