Sarah Register and Andrya Ambro of Talk Normal are taking a break from the usual noisy-rock vibe of their previous outings for sophomore LP Sunshine (out October 23 via Joyful Noise). We recently asked the dynamic duo to make us a mix tape, and here’s the awesome one they sent us.
“Bad Date” (download):
Vernon Wray “Prison Song”
Ambro: I had no idea Vernon existed until recently. He is brother to the cult-classic American king of distorted guitar, Link Wray. It seems like Vernon might have a hard time living in that shadow despite the fact that he was the elder brother. Vernon had a brief solo career and went by the name Ray Vernon. He also had a lot of experience running a DIY record company and studio. This song is from the ’70s when he returned as Vernon Wray. Its painfully sincere dedication in the beginning is beautiful. Accompanied by both Link and drumming brother Doug, Vernon tells a good story. And it’s a great recording! Video
Janet Jackson “Black Cat”
Register: I was young when I got Rhythm Nation. Outside of my then-favs Def Leppard, this may have been the most wicked guitar song I’d heard. Constantly on a never-fullfilled quest to win my brother’s approval, the 10-year-old me made a mix tape for him including this song, with a special note about how he might particularly enjoy “Black Cat” (thinking I would obviously win him with this maxiumus-guitarus awesomenessus). I sent it to him at summer camp. I’d guess it made no real impact. But I was still wow’d by this amazing creature that had already suckered me in—Janet Jackson—being (in words I did not know then) such a tough motherfucker. Here’s a vid from the 1990 VMAs, shitty VHS and all. Video
Roxy Music “Grey Lagoons”
Ambro: A classic Roxy number. The opening bit with Bryan Ferry’s saccharin delivery and seemingly asinine lyrics over the sweet backing harmonies is uplifting. I think Eno may have had a lot to do with this. Plus I love the feel-good straight shuffle from Paul Thompson that leads the song in and out. The whole track is like a medley of random styles that shifts every time one of the guys goes for a solo. They were such a killing band, let alone a great act. Other then Roxy Music, I’m not sure what band can actual make that cool, and do it in such fantastic outfits. Video and Video
A.R.E. Weapons “Hey World”
Register: There was a long period where this song went on every mix tape I made. Whether it meant anything to the recipients, I don’t know. And, I basically never reference things when I write lyrics but a very small chunk of a TN song was birthed from a turn of phrase in “Hey World.” Call me emo, call me whatever, but I still listen to this song and hurt. Video
Carole King “Cryin’ In The Rain”
Ambro: I always have to remind myself that she wrote half the popular songs the whole world sings. This one was made famous by the Everly Brothers and, later, a-ha. I discovered this version with Carole on vocals via the One Kiss Can Lead To Another girl-group compilation. Truly a gem of a song especially sung by its maker. Plus the recording seems so lo-fi, not in any production sort of way, rather they just picked up any old instrument and pressed record. And I think I hear a xylophone or is that a prepared piano? Its mystery is inspiring. Video
Donovan “Happiness Runs”
Register: Just a special, special tune. Video
The Creation “If I Stay Too Long”
Ambro: A charming love ballad. I’ve never wanted to grab a partner for a slow dance more. The backing vocals remind me of earlier Wailers. And I just discovered Ronnie Wood was in the band! Plus vocal man Kenny Pickett ended up being Jimmy Page’s guitar tech. Disclaimer: I discovered this track via thee Oh Sees cover. Another excellent take on the tune. Video and Video
The Divine Comedy “Absent Friends”
Register: I have my friend Jenn Gregerson to thank for the Divine Comedy. Seemingly before any of the rest of us knew shit about ourselves, Jenn Gregs spoke fluent French, listened to music we’d never heard of and hung out in cafes. This song made it on to many mix tapes—just another tendril in the ever-feeling night. “Do you hear what i hear?” A voice to lose yourself in, wrapped around a sentiment so elegantly put. This guy is lucky I never turned up weeping in his bushes. Video
The Dead C “Power”
Ambro: When all hope seems lost, I play this song loud. Its defunct, I-have-nothing-to-give-so-fuck-you energy is invigorating. Long live the Dead C. Video
CocoRosie “Japan”
Register: I didn’t get CocoRosie for the most part, though it kinda seems like I would have. Maybe someday. But this one song dug its claws deep, and ended up on many mix tapes. I often self-consciously wondered if I’d “lose ’em at the opera part.” Maybe it was a kind of litmus test. And, apparently, this means I was making mix tapes as late as 2007. Video
