The 500 - #457 - My Morning Jacket - Z

I was inspired by a podcast called The 500 hosted by comedian Josh Adam Meyers. His goal, and mine, is to explore Rolling Stone's 2012 edition of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. 

My plan (amended). 

• 1 or 2 records per week & at least 2 complete listens.
• A quick blog post for each, highlighting the important details and a quick background story.
• No rating scale - just an effort to expand my appreciation.

Album # 457

Album Title: Z
Artist: My Morning Jacket
Released: October, 2005
My age at release: 40
How familiar am I with it: Not at all
Song I am putting on my Spotify Mix: Lay Low 
Great Lyric:
"You had me worried, so worried
That this would last
But now I'm learning
Learning this will pass."
(Dondate)
One of my great pleasures on this journey through Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums is the discovery of an unknown gem. This album marks the 16th record on this list with which I had little to no familiarity. Much like Manu Chau's Proxima Esatacion: Esperanza, Aquemini by Outkast and I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight by Richard and Linda Thompson, this record by My Morning Jacket is an unexpected treasure and a great addition to my playlists.

I didn't think I knew anything by the band. This was one of many artists whose name I knew but whose work I had not explored. As I listened, a few songs sounded familiar and I realized that they were a staple on Radio Paradise.

For those not familiar, Radio Paradise is a commercial-free, listener supported internet radio service. It has been operating since 2000, originally out of Paradise California (hence its name) and now out of the Borrega Valley near San Diego. It describes itself as "eclectic rock radio". I first learned of it from my friend James who played it regularly. It always seemed like the perfect mix and fit every occasion. My wife and I have been supporters for over ten years and it can be heard playing throughout our apartment during most of our waking hours. I encourage you to try a free listen and, if possible, subscribe for a few dollars a month.

I listened to Z by My Morning Jacket about eight times this weekend as I was writing progress reports for my students. This was an ideal choice for background music. Music writers have been unable to accurately identify a single genre for this band's sound, calling it art-rock, jam-rock, psychedelia, space-rock and indie. The record flows together seamlessly so selecting a single track was tough. In the end, I reached out to a friend who is a fan - I offered my two suggestions, Lay Low and Dondante and this is what he sent back.

Guest Blog Contribution from Nick B.

Lay Low is my favourite track. I just love the guitars that harmonize during the solo. It's like I’m listening to a bootleg Allman Brothers record and I want to grab my fishing rods, hop in the car, hit the back roads and drive until I find a river.

That’s what my dad and I listened to when we went on fishing trips - The Allman Brothers Live at the Fillmore. When I heard this album I immediately sent it to him. I started with this song. Naturally, it’s now one of his favourites. 

I love when bands can take their influences and combine them with their own sound. It’s a nice blend of old-meets-new and it gives me hope for music in the future. Create your own music but don’t lose the sounds that influenced you.