Erik's Random 10

The first song on today's list is Sufjan Stevens' "Abraham" from his Christian album Seven Swans. Usually I can't stand Christian music. But Stevens is different because he is an artist first and a Christian second. His spirituality comes through in his art. Virtually any message is cool in music if it is good music. Stevens is an interesting young artist. Most Christian bands suck. This is much more true in white music. The gospel tradition is amazing and that is great music. The Appalachian white gospel thing is great too, even though I know I would disagree with those singers on virtually everything if I met them. But the music is just so good that I don't care. So here's a message to Christian rock bands. Quit singing about how much you love Jesus, blah, blah, blah and listen to some good music. Seven Swans would be a good place to start. Then, put the music first and let the lyrics come from that. But most of all, please quit putting out terrible music for home-schooled white kids in the suburbs.

1. Sufjan Stevens, Abraham
2. W.A. Mozart, Concerto for Horn & Orchestra NO. 4, Rondo. Allegro Vivace. Marie-Luise Neunecker, horn
3. The Killers, Smile Like You Mean It
4. Frank Zappa, Harry, You're A Beast
5. Fruit Jar Guzzlers, Steel Drivin' Man
6. Bob Wills, Texas Playboy Theme (Opening)
7. John Cage, Sonata XI
8. Marvin Gaye, Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)
9. Brownie Ford, Burn the Honky Tonk Down
10. John Rimmer, An Inner Voice