Unfortified Castle

Genesis capture the strife which penetrates our world on all levels, while also leaving the door open for humanity to still work things out.

I discuss a trio influences that lie behind one of my favorite songs from nearly a decade ago.

In a thousand-yard stare of a song, CCR — contrary to many other artists — reflect on how darkness can always penetrate the light.

Its sound as as mid-60s as you can get, but its perspective might lend itself to being a forerunner of more contemporary movements.

Snail Mail's superb second record begins with a tone-setting build-up and bang.

Upon a close listen, the load-bearing in the chorus leads to a reconfiguring of the entire narrative and outlook of the tune.

It may not be their signature tune (if you can even narrow that down to one), but it's an indicative slice of their formative sound.

Perhaps my favorite 70s one-hit wonder has a great narrative build which really pays off in its latter half.

While a departure from their known sound, this highlight from their new album — over a decade in the works — fits the band's character.

It's a shame most Americans don't know this dance-inducing indie/garage gem.

It doesn't get more 60s than how the Friends of Distinction spun an instrumental classic. And how do Zambia and Jim Brown each play a part?

This ska punk jam has one of the most unique origin stories for a track I've ever heard — one which makes me question my own life a bit.

The title of the Zombies' jumpstart single is an answer, but it, along with the rest of the song, only breeds more questions.

It sounds like a lot of tracks from its era, but its creators' attention to detail and its dramatic but relatable lyrics make it stand out.

Tracy Chapman speaks of lost potential, but there might just be a light at the end of the tunnel.

The most powerful and catchiest vocal lines don't necessarily need words.

A standout track of the early 90s is even more intriguing when one applies the context of its introduction to the rest of the track.

I can't help but smile when I hear this song, but man, it's messed up. (And holy cow, a 90s track! About time.)

Yesterday, it was French house. Today, it's French rock, and a tune which has its roots in that same electronic touch.

As Hurricane Ida causes destruction in Louisiana, this entry pays tribute to a people and a city who have risen from the ashes before.