A few of my current favorite things.

// October 24th, 2009 // Bites, Nibbles, Uncategorized

Lily Allen – It’s Not Me, It’s Doctor Rosen Rosen

Allen’s sophomore album percolates with her sense of humor and whimsical pop. But this remix project, in which Doctor Rosen Rosen changes the music and the mood behind Allen’s songs, draws more attention to Lily the lyricist. Rosen focuses on the sadness, feminism, and social commentary revealing Allen’s vulnerability and that It’s Not Me is thematically heavier than its predecessor. He takes it from perky pop record to lights-out time-for-a-cry. Download is free here – http://doctorrosenrosen.com/lily_remixed.html

Supporting Actors on Joss Whedon’s Dollhouse

Although it was created as an outlet for Eliza Dushku, it’s the supporting cast that floors me each week. Dichen Lachman (Sierra) and Enver Gjokaj (Victor) are downright incredible morphing from gamer to spy or Russian mobster to college airhead. They’re only getting better as their back stories and romance are revealed in Season 2. Dollhouse Season 2 continues with back to back episodes Fridays in December. http://www.fox.com/dollhouse/

The new Last Call with Carson Daly

Last winter’s format change (after seven seasons) gives Last Call its own identity and host Carson Daly a chance to delve into topics he’s passionate about. Most interviews are filmed on location and interspersed with quick newsy segments. Actors, athletes, and musicians aren’t the same faces you see on all the other talk shows. Chuck’s Zachary Levi, Smalliville’s Cassidy Freeman, and Seth Green all star in shows I actually watch. Daly’s also often early to champion new artists or projects like Jeremy Renner and his film The Hurt Locker or Kid Cudi and Ida Maria.

Secret Agent 23 Skidoo

The Asheville, North Carolina producer/MC and his occasional guest, 7-year-old daughter Saki (aka MC Fireworks) make some of the best kid’s music I’ve ever heard. You might not realize it’s for children if it weren’t for rhymes about dragons, mermaids, individuality and learning lessons.  Sophisticated beats, jazzy hooks and Skidoo’ deep and gravely vocals (think Adam Yauch of the Beastie Boys) make it less cute and cuddly and more parent-friendly.  http://www.secretagent23skidoo.com/

Juliette Commagere – Queens Die Proudly

The Hello Stranger front woman’s solo disc sounds like her day job remixed. Her voice is so hypnotic and positive. The title makes the Henry VIII buff in me want to delve into the lyrics. http://www.myspace.com/juliettecommagere