Walden 1980

Because The Night – Patti Smith

I came up with a little writing exercise for myself a few weeks ago. I listen to the Clear Channel Cable Music Channels a lot, in particular, “retro-active” which plays you got it, 80s music. Anyway, a lot of my favorite music came out in the 80’s, I’m not unique that way, but this music informs a lot of what I do, and think, and say, so I’m doing a little thing where I just write whatever I think about the next 5 songs that play, starting with this one by Patti Smith. With all due respect to Patti Smith, I prefer the Natalie Merchant version. Man, I had a huge crush on Natalie Merchant.

Games Without Frontiers – Peter Gabriel

I saw Peter Gabriel a few years ago with my friend Sam, it was very random. It turns out Peter’s guitarist, who I had never heard of and have since forgotten the name of is this huge cult hero to serious Peter Gabriel fans. I understand this as I sort of feel the same way about The Edge, but everyone knows who The Edge, is and nobody knows what the fuck the name of Peter Gabriel’s guitarist is. I think it may be Tony.

One Night In Bangkok – Murray Head

This song was so freaking cool when I was 13. Once upon a time I actually had the 45 of it. It was given to me by the catering hall where my Bar Mitzvah reception was held. I think it’s about doing drugs, prostitutes, and getting in fights in Bangkok. I’m not really sure but according to Mr. Head, one night in Bangkok is seriously going to mess with you. Where the hell does Murray Head fit into the pop culture pantheon? Who are the hardcore Murray Head fans? Someone get over to Wikipedia and figure it out. Then get right back here and post it. Get me some dirt on that guitarist while you’re at it.

Alive And Kicking – Simple Minds

I really have no great love for this song. It’s a nice song, but it does nothing for me. I think that if Echo And The Bunnymen and The Psychedelic Furs had not existed, Simple Minds would have been much more interesting. Unfortunately, a lot of the music that came out of the 80’s is really derivative of music that came out just a year before. No wait, that’s true of now too. What’s really scary is the large number of bands that are heavily influenced by bands that were derivative back then. I really wish this song were over.

Turning Japanese - The Vapors

Whoever programmed this block is about 5 years older than me, I’ll bet you anything. I seem to remember someone telling me this song was about figuring out you’re gay. I don’t really think so. Who the hell were The Vapors? When you compile your list of one hit wonders from the 80’s, these guys are right up there with Murray Head. Have you heard the song Oh Bondage, Up Yours? It’s from X-Ray Spex, best one hit wonder ever. You haven’t even heard it have you?