Thoroughly enjoyed what I've heard of Moondog so far (his 1969 self-titled, H'art Songs, Elpmas and a really fantastic compilation titled The Viking of Sixth Avenue, the latter of which was actually my favourite of all four), and I feel like if I'd had years (or even months) to acquaint myself with his music then he might get my vote, but the music of Marvin is just too close to my heart to vote for Moondog here. A number of his early singles must rank amongst the best Motown songs of the '60s, but he started to come into his own when he began penning his own stuff, and his 1970s discography would stand up against anybody's. Obviously there's What's Going On and Let's Get It On, but often unfairly forgotten by rockist audiences and mainstream critics - although they are rightly heralded in many circles as classics, and I do understand that arguing about Marvin Gaye not getting the acclaim he deserves, especially given his opposition in this match, is somewhat absurd and more than a little pointless - are his other two masterpieces of the decade, I Want You (his most forward-thinking album musically) and Here, My Dear (his most touching album lyrically), whilst it would be remiss not to mention Trouble Man, an attempt at a film soundtrack that is pretty much the equal of Curtis Mayfield's deservedly acclaimed Superfly. Anyway, here are five of my favourite underrated Marvin songs, because everybody should have a bit of Marvin in their daily lives:
How many blind street musicians have you heard that would go on to influence such a wide range of genius? Philips Glass, Steve Reich, John Fahey, Janis Joplin, Antony, Benny Goodman, Isaac Brock were all fans. Why? Because Moondog approached music in a new exciting way. His music was extremely playful, while also technical. Listen to Moondog & Friends and then watch him transform over time. My personal favorite is H'art Songs. Released when Moondog was 62, H'art songs is a vocal record containing ditties with a load of heart. Elpmas is also a late period Moondog record that goes very overlooked. Moondog's career lasted over 30 years and yet he always seemed to marching to the beat of his own drum (which he probably made himself).
Thoroughly enjoyed what I've heard of Moondog so far (his 1969 self-titled, H'art Songs, Elpmas and a really fantastic compilation titled The Viking of Sixth Avenue, the latter of which was actually my favourite of all four), and I feel like if I'd had years (or even months) to acquaint myself with his music then he might get my vote, but the music of Marvin is just too close to my heart to vote for Moondog here.
Likewise, Marvin Gaye was one of the all time greats. If my nominee has to lose, I'm glad it's to someone as great as Marvin. _________________ http://jonnyleather.com
As white with guitars as BEA is, Gaye is much closer to its comfort zone than Moondog. Well, it's much closer to mine at least. I couldn't really manage to get into his music as much as you or Mecca.
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