Scarlett Johansson's "Anywhere I Lay My Head"
Fueled by Ramen Records
Rise Records
Various Artists - Punk Goes Crunk
Metro Station
My initial reaction to Scarlett Johansson's debut as a vocalist was one of great skepticism. When I found out she'd be covering legendary songwriter Tom Waits' songs for her first venture as a vocalist, I was quite thrown. After listening to Anywhere I Lay My Head I can say that I was greatly disturbed by the results, so much that I felt giving the album a horrible review would be doing Johansson the favor of free press. As a result, this will be the last mention of the recording on this site... ever again.
If there was one record label I could erase from the existence of the world, it would Fueled by Ramen Records. Yes, they even supersede Victory Records. What frustrates me most about this label is how they continue pass off trite pop music of major label funded artists as the best independent music around. Seriously? If Paramore and Cute is What We Aim For is the best independent music the world has to offer, kill me now.
Nearly as bad as Fueled by Ramen is Rise Records. I don't know what happened to this label. While not a huge fan of their early releases, at least they were attempting to discover artists with unique sounds (Divit was some good stuff). Nowadays they continue to sign as many copies of Norma Jean and whatever flavor of the month faux-hardcore/screamo band they can get their paws on. The Devil Wears Prada? I hope they get a lawsuit filed against them just so I don't have to read that horrific name ever again.
If you read my review of this compilation, then you know why this album is listed here. If you didn't read the review, do so now. Basically, this album is not only horrific, but the concept is equally as flawed. Shame on you Fearless. Shame! Shame! Shame!
It's obvious to all how this band got signed. But are they serious about that image and that music? I guess so. If I were Billy Ray, I'd be pissed my step-son is such a dweeb.
(Michael)
