Wasn't Gonna Do It, But Hey "No Strings Attached"

I can't help myself. I already sent my RSVP back to Jen with my regrets that I wouldn't have time to enter this week's Twisted Tuesday MixTape, and yet here I am.

"Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in." Yes, much like Tom Hanks in "You've Got Mail," I live my life through the wisdom of Godfather quotes. Be afraid.

Anyway, I couldn't resist the pull of this week's theme. No Strings Attached... as in well, you know. Three songs immediately popped into my head, so I figured what the hell, just write it. So here's a quick list, and I mean quick. Also I apologize to everyone who has been leaving comments on my posts, for not commenting back. All I've had time to do is take a look at your lists, smile and move on. There have been some great choices out there. One more week of insanity and things should ease up.

So here we go.

The second song I ever remember about a one-night stand was quite a scandal when it came out in 1968. Originally offered to Connie Francis, who thought it was a little too, well, you know, eventually it became a hit by Merrilee Rush. Later it had a second life with Juice Newton.

"Angel Of The Morning"

For a male perspective that isn't quite wham-bam-thank-you-maam, Bob Seger wrote a beautiful ode to loneliness.

"We've Got Tonight"

Another different perspective from a woman on a mission. Heart sang about a one-night-stand with a lasting gift.

"All I Wanna Do (Is Make Love To You)"

Though not about a one-nighter, it is a song about no-strings attached. This time the view is from the one who is hurt by an affair, not the person having it. Before Dolly Parton was known more for her wigs and amusement park, she was considered one of the best songwriters around. Most of us know she wrote "I Will Always Love You," taken into the stratosphere by Whitney Houston, but this song of pain and desperation is one of her best. Miley Cyrus even recorded it, but don't hold that against it.

"Jolene"

Back to a woman looking for a little lovin' with no strings attached, although this is sung by a man. Probably not familiar to most of you, it's off an album called HiStory by One Man's Trash. It's just fun.

"The Real Thing"

And the last song for this tape, is the first song I remember about "going all the way." Talk about standing the test of time, it was written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin for the Shirelles in 1960. It has been covered by, ok, everyone. Why, because it's a beautiful song, that's why. I could have chosen from Amy Winehouse, Norah Jones, The Bee Gees, or probably twenty more. I don't know why, but my favorite is by Dave Mason.

"Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow"

That's it, I'm outta here and crawling back to my dark hole. See y'all in a week, maybe less. Thanks Jen, next time the beer's on me.

An Easy Ride Today...Just A Little Traffic

Forty-five years ago today, one of rock's most interesting, talented and influential bands made their first live appearance. On September 24, 1967, Traffic played at the Saville Theatre in London.

Traffic was not one of those 3-minute wonder British bands. Their music was diverse, complicated and full of surprises...both melodically and lyrically. Chris Wood, Jim Capaldi, Dave Mason and Steve Winwood...not a bad lineup, don't you agree? Over the years, the line-up changed, but the core four created a legacy which still stands the test of time.

A few tastes today...a bite from a few different albums.

From their first album Mr. Fantasy, reflecting the sound of the time...heavy organ and of course, some cowbell.... "Coloured Rain." 

Off the 1967 release Traffic... "Pearly Queen"

From John Barleycorn Must Die, "Empty Pages"

Low Spark of High Heeled Boys has so many choices, but love Capaldi doing "Light Up or Leave Me Alone."

Ending it off with a little something from Shoot Out at the Fantasy Factory. Never afraid to throw in an instrumental, "Tragic Magic" is mesmerizing.

We've lost both Jim Capaldi and Chris Wood, way too young, Finding joy in their music all these years later gives testimony to their talent and vision.

Savor each little trip, with Traffic...the joy most definitely is in the ride.

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Roll Me Away: So High

Feeling like something a bit lighter today.
Here's just an infectious rock song by Dave Mason. "So High,"  gives you everything you need...great beat, a chorus you have to sing along with, and a firm vision of the promise of a great first night... all in 4 minutes.

"Tellin' you darlin' we can do it in style
My imagination is drivin' me wild
'Cause the things that you're sayin'
Cuttin' right through me
Way that you're swayin'
Is gonna undo me and I'm...So High"

Dave Mason, originally of Traffic and famous for "Feeling Alright," also had a nice hit with "We Just Disagree." Love those songs, but when I need to get happy fast...I'm going with "So High."

Keep on rockin' me baby.