#since I am a firm believer in 'every band member matters' it was so difficult to choose a Bruce moment. | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

leopardprintismybrown · 4 years

Text

Time for confessions

(From Music Life August Issue 1985)

In May, Queen made their sixth visit to Japan. Despite the disturbing rumous of a breakup, the concert was still amazing and once again the Japanese performance was a huge success. After Freddie’s interview for last month’s issue, this month we will share an interview with Roger Taylor and John Deacon. They will be open about confidential topics never shared before: the truth about the breakup, what will happen to Queen…

**********************************************************

★ This was the best tour even according to them

First of all, this year’s concert was awesome. It was very impressive and, in my opinion, it was better than any previous performances.

Roger: Really?! Thank you so much. Even in our opinion, this world tour was the best we’ve ever done.

John: Before coming to Japan, we’ve performed in Australia and New Zealand. Our last time in Australia was nine years ago and this was our first time in New Zealand, but the concert in Sidney was particularly great.

Roger: Exactly. 70000 people attended the 4 concerts in Australia. The tickets were all sold-out and right about that time the album was at the second place, it was amazing. Though, apparently, it was the wrong season. The weather in Australia is usually very nice, but it kept raining throughout our stay!

Well, well… And how was the response of the Japanese audience?

Roger: Very good! It’s not flattery, I’m serious. Since the security was strict, I had the impression that the people weren’t participating as expected, but everyone was singing with us and it was great!

John: Speaking of which, yesterday Roger and I were discussing about how many times we’ve performed at the Budōkan. I guess 15-16 times, maybe 17?

The staging and the set changed but it was as impactful as ever. When did you start with that stage set?

John: After “The Works” was completed. We started with the European tour. Then we toured South America, Brazil… and after that Japan. The one who designed that stage was…

Roger: Me! (laughs) Then with our tour manager we thought of a stage designer in Los Angeles. Basically, it’s the atmosphere of the movie “Metropolis”.

I was overwhelmed by the stage set, but I was really surprised to hear the early Queen numbers such as “Liar” and “Seven Seas of Rhye” because I wasn’t really expecting to hear those songs…

Roger: Uhm, we selected the songs together. The tour with this set started with Europe, but in the middle of it we wanted to include some early songs, too. Then we decided to do a medley with 5 early songs and to put it into the set halfway through the European tour.

John: We’ve played so many songs so far, that I even forgot some of them. It was so hard to remember! (laughs)

★ The scary story behind Rock in Rio

I have a few questions about “Rock in Rio” that took place in Brazil on January of this year. You’ve already played concerts in Brazil so far but this was the first time in Rio, right?

John: Yes, we’ve been to Argentina and Brazil in ‘81, but we only played at Sao Paulo Football Stadium. This was our first time playing in Rio, but the hall and the audience was great.

Roger: It was the biggest concert we ever did. We did two shows, the first day and the Friday night, and each one was attended by 250000 people. Everyone sang with us and the atmosphere was great! There was no violence.

John: And we were lucky. The two nights when we played it didn’t even rain. It was an outdoor location and the rain could have been a problem. The ground gets messy because of the mud... It rained the day Rod Stewart played.

Did you have the chance to watch the performances of other bands?

Roger: Of course. I saw Whitesnake. I also met Cozy and…. Oh yeah, I saw Rod Stewart.

John: I didn’t go… the venue was so distant. However, there are bars with televisions in Brazil and groups of young people watched together the part of the event that was broadcasted every night. AC/DC were good.

Would you care to share some interesting anecdotes?

Roger: Oh! I have a lot, but those are not properly the kind of stories to tell. (laughs) Because it was like a 10 day long party.

John: Oh yes, a lot happened…. Let’s see… The first day we had a hard time. Rio is a traffic jam. For this reason, the people in Rio leave their cars on the road when it gets jammed and walk. So we decided to go the venue by helicopter, just in case. However, the road was not packed at all and we arrived way too early.

Roger: Yes, we had to be at the venue by 6 o’ clock and we couldn’t be late. It’s good that we arrived early, but our set actually started at 2 in the morning! Next time we’ll go by bus no matter what!!

John: Also, it was fun to be able to meet people we haven’t met before. With him (if you look at the picture on ML April Issue, he’s pointing at Neil Murray) it was the first time. Oh, this is a picture we took at the party in the hotel (he’s looking at the picture of Brian with a local fan), Brian looks drunk. He jumped into the pool. (laughs)

What?? I can’t imagine Brian jumping into the pool! Well, now that you say that, his hair and trousers are soaked… Anyway, it looks like you enjoyed “Rock in Rio”! (laughs)

Roger, John: Yes, a lot! (laughs)

★ It was difficult (The Works)

It’s been almost 12 years since Queen was formed…

John: Yes, it’s been 12 years… 12 years! (he suddenly makes the imitation of an old man) 14 years that I’ve known the other members.*

In these years you’ve established your own musical style, you’ve released many wonderful records, and you’ve written a brilliant and shining page in the history of rock. And also, each member is now working individually as a musician. Is there a special reason for working outside of the group?

Roger: Uhm, my personal reason is simply because I like to work.

John: It was very difficult to complete “The Works”, to be honest… Of course, all of us want to pursue Queen. But it’s true that preserving the group is hard. When we entered the studio, we had a lot of expectations but it was as if the time was just flowing rapidly without realizing it… The recording of “The Works” took too much time and it was a bit tiring. Four people were not on the same page, musically speaking... though, of course, we made it work in the end, somehow. But this is the case for every band that has been around for years.

It must be difficult, because every member of Queen is an independent musician.

John: The next plan is to take a break for a while and then go back to the studio around November. This time we’re also going to change the producer.

Do you already have ideas for the new album?

Roger: I have something vague in my mind, but nothing concrete. I want to do something different from “The Works”. I think that “The Works” is a good album with a mix of modern and old elements, but we have to keep changing. “Tonight” by David Bowie was a mistake, in my opinion. The album was released too soon and it hadn’t changed enough.

★ Break up? We will someday

Do you want to do something in particular in your time off? Is John going to make a solo album?

John: I thought about it. I went to a little studio in London but I don’t have time to think during tours. But when it comes to singing… I’m sorry, but I need to get someone’s help for the song. (laughs)

And Roger? Are you going to make a third solo album?

Roger: I have no plans for a solo album but I’m producing something, lately. Sideway Look, Jimmy Nail… Jimmy Nail made it to the top 20 in the UK charts. It was the first record I produced, so it’s all the more satisfying!

Are there any musicians or bands you want to produce in the future?

Roger: Yes, a lot. Jeff Beck, and also Rod Stewart. It looks like we can do a good job.

Have you listened to Freddie’s solo album?

John: I’ve listened to some songs, but not to the whole album, yet. “Made in Heaven” is a good song.

Roger: The one I like more is “Made in Heaven”, too.

Finally, I’d like to ask a slightly more serious question. There’s been rumours about Queen breaking up…

Roger: (bursts into laughter) Mwahahahah…

Of course, I don’t want to believe in these rumours, but I’d like to know the truth.

John: Well, someday we will breakup. But does anybody know when this someday will be?

Roger: In these 14 years, we’ve always denied with a firm “NO!” whenever someone asked about Queen breaking up. That’s just a rumour. There are absolutely no plans to break up at the present day. I wonder if everyone wants Queen to break up so bad... (laughs)

John: Certainly, touring is getting harder, because we have to completely change the shows and the approach. But it’s been decided that we’ll work on the new album starting from November.

Please continue your work with Queen forever, no matter what form you want it to take in the future. I think this is the wish of all the fans.

Roger, John: Thank you very much. You’re right, that is way better than breaking up.

Ok, this is really the last question. What do you want to do in the future as members of Queen and as individuals?

Roger: Personally, I want more kids! (laughs) As a Queen member, I want to be more successful in America. It’s true that we have a certain notoriety in America, but the last album didn’t sell that well… Well, there are ups and downs in everything. That’s why I want to hit big in America again. To achieve that, we must do a looooong tour centered in Midwest. (laughs)

Roger and John have clearly denied the breaking up of Queen. They’ve talked about ambitions for the future, like achieving a bigger success in America. Their eyes focused on the future have still not lost their glow.

*I don’t own the magazine where this interview was released so I cannot double check. I think the numbers have been reversed because Queen formed in 1970 before John met them. And if you read further below, Roger mentions 14 years of activity.

**********************************************************

A/N: As always, I am not an English native speaker, so forgive any possible error. Also, remember that translating into a foreign language is difficult and I hope I have preserved the original meaning.

#translated by me #music life #music life magazine #queen #queen interview #queen in japan #80s #80s Queen #roger taylor #freddie mercury #Brian May #John Deacon #rock in rio #1985 #the works

62 notes · View notes

bugheadfamily · 6 years

Text

Bughead Family Discord Member Spotlight

This week the spotlight is on Cat ( @shibbycat ), our newest admin! Click the read more link below to get to know our member!

Spotlight by Mila, @jughead-jones | Graphic by Katie, @betty-cooper

Cat | @shibbycat

Name: Cat

Age: I’m old enough to own a Sega Genesis bought in a store the year it was released, and yes. I still play it.

Location: Northern Italy for the time being, but I’m prone to moving quite bit.

Any other languages aside from English people can contact you in?: I can do some conversational Spanish, and I can have Eric (my husband) tell me what you’re saying in Russian.

Favourite Riverdale characters and ships?: What gave you the impression that I like Riverdale or its ships? JK. Shockingly, I’m all about that Bughead. ALL about it. I care about most of the characters & their successes/failures… with Betty, Jughead, Veronica & Cheryl in the lead.

Favourite moments from S1 & S2?: Wow. Talk about a Sophie’s Choice. Here goes nothing. I legit yelled at my screen during The Look in 1x02, “omG. IT’S HAPPENING.” My childhood ship was exhumed. Best day. The dynamic between Jughead & FP in 1x07 rang particularly true to me. I also took away that Jughead talks about Jellybean like she’s his kid, not his sister. It guts me every single time. The end bit where Betty & Jughead walk away together really demonstrated how close they already were as a couple. Bonus for that being the scene where it clicks with Archie his two best friends were 5000% together, & their friendships was never going to be the same. It’s a small moment but I love it. Picking one thing from Season 2??? Co-Presidents. The absolute equality in their relationship was so perfectly on point here for me. The support and respect for one another was on display in blinking neon lights. WAIT. The hospital scene. I can’t leave it off. Jughead “I’ll never stop loving you” Jones almost gets murdered & only feels bad about not being there for Betty. All that matters to Betty is Jughead getting better. Plus, down-the-face kisses. I can’t with these two.

What are your hopes for S3?: I’m really hoping to see more of a focus on the friendships. I want to see them all work together in general & specifically, to defeat Hiram. We got to see an entire season of Hiram doing nothing but succeeding in his various nefarious causes & successfully pitting Bughead/Varchie against one another. Seeing his takedown at the hands of those whose lives & relationships he thought destroyed as they’re instead working together? Yes. Very yes. I’m of course beyond stoked for the Bughead Detective Agency & them working/growing together in their relationship & lives. Some actual fun times would be great to see. Yano, ones that don’t end in someone getting murdered or going to jail.

Other fandoms you’re into?: Besides Riverdale, I only exist in lurker status (thanks anxiety!) for fandoms, but I lurk(ed) super hard in Harry Potter (Except that I’ve totally written terrible HP fic. Really happy no one’s going to read this to know that), Reylo, Doctor Who, & Sherlock.

What are some of your favourite movies/TV?: Besides the obvious, just about everything Disney touches owns my pocketbook, dedication & continued attention. Parks & Rec, The Office (both UK & US), Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Gilmore Girls, Doctor Who, Star Trek: TNG, & Sherlock are all shows I can watch on repeat. I’m not even going to start on non-Disney movies, because I’ll be here all day.

Favourite books?: This is literally the most difficult question to answer, because books are life. I’m going to keep it brief & say “Harry Potter.” They changed my life, they saved my life, & they’re always there to welcome me home.

Favourite bands/musicians?: Favorites are so hard. I like a little something from most genres of music, but I can never turn off classic Elton John, BSB (I had full plans to marry Kevin as an 11 year old), Linkin Park, John Williams, Lady GaGa, Guns n Roses, The Killers, or Queen. Big picture wise, I’m particularly attached to Classic Rock, practically anything 80s, late 90s/early 2000s pop (I still know all the choreo to Bye Bye Bye & Oops... I Did It Again), The Great American Songbook, classical music, popular songs converted classical arrangements, and I’m a sucker for 1960s/70s R&B/soul. Long story short, I make a lot of playlists.

If you could live in any fictional world which one would you choose and why?: Harry Potter for sure. Wands which choose you. Broomsticks which get released like new car models. Owls which deliver mail anywhere. Portkeys/Apparating/Brooms/Floo powder making travel dirt cheap/free. Butterbeer & Pumpkin Juice. If it’s not clear, I’m really into Harry Potter. OH. I also did a HP LARP a few years ago in a Polish castle, & it was the greatest thing EVER.

Favourite food?: Oh food. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Seriously. I travel around just to eat. Limiting to one kind? Mexican food. I could eat it everyday.

Favourite season?: Fall/winter. First of all, I like to wear a GRIP of layers. I’m also a big fan of being lazy & putting a beanie on over my unstyled (often unbrushed) hair. I’m also VERY into Halloween & Christmas. I decorate for both with gusto. Christmas goes up in my house the same day it does at Disneyland: 10 November. I’m also obsessed with Christmas Markets. So many quality Halloween/Christmas films too! I have an entire list of mandatory watches every year.

Favourite plant?: Really large sunflowers with the dark red/deep orange petals. Their seeds also demonstrate the Fibonacci sequence, and I’m a human who believes math is the most beautiful thing in the entire world.

Favourite scent?: There’s something magical smelling about old books for me. I also really enjoy the way rain smells on dry pavement when it first starts falling.

Favourite colour?: It’s been purple ever since I learned how the Phoenicians made it when I was 9.

Favourite animal?: Cats. All kinds & sizes...except Sphynxes. & unicorns. Are you a night owl, an early bird, or a vampire?: Night owl/early bird. The insomnia is strong with this one.

Place you want to visit?: I’ve been lucky enough to check a lot of places off my “must see” list, but Madagascar is still a life goal. OH! & to visit every single Disney park around the world.

Do you have pets? If you do, tell us a little about them: Ah! Something I LOVE talking about. I have 3 incredibly spoiled cat children who want to cuddle all the time. That’s right. Cat loves cats. They’re all rescues, Maine Coons, and little characters to be sure. Their names are Dorcas, Knick Knack, & Elmo. We’ve had Dorky for 10 years and Elmo & Knick Knack for 9 years. Knick Knack likes to walk on a leash & paws at the door for his walk. Dorcas plays fetch with toy mice, and Elmo likes to cuddle so hard Eric is genuinely worried I’ll be suffocated by his snuggles.

Tell us a little about yourself?: My grandma once told me that I’ve always known exactly who I am, even as a child, and I’ve let that sense-of-self guide me (not always to greatness mind you) every day. I’m an introvert with fairly crippling anxiety & depression, and I simply don’t care who knows it. If me being upfront about it can help anyone, I’m happy to do it. I’m hypercritical of myself & what I put out into the world. Being frank, honest, and sarcastic are how I say “hello,” but I’m also a firm believer in “don’t say something rude just to say something rude.” Tact is key. Encouraging people to find their own happiness & fulfillment in life are things which bring me joy. Likewise, I’d do pretty much anything for a friend, & if there’s something I can do to help them/help someone in their journey to find happiness in life, I want to do it. Uuuummm, I laugh so hard I cry a lot, and my eyeliner runs. It always makes people think I’ve been crying for real & filled with emotions. It’s awkward. I guess I’m creative? I like woodworking, pyrography, crafting, and making nerd stuff through those mediums.

Fun or weird fact about you?: I entered my wedding reception to “The Imperial March.” It’s safe to say I’ve been a wee bit obsessed with Star Wars for longer than my Sega Genesis is old.

This is the ninth instalment of Bughead Family’s Member Spotlight series. Each week, a member’s url is selected through a randomizer and they will be featured in a spotlight post. In order to participate, please join the Bughead Discord (more information found here). Thank you.

#bughead #riverdale #bughead family discord #member spotlight #bugheadfamily

8 notes · View notes

greenappleeyes · 7 years

Text

Secret Lives (part 4)

Words: 3.1k

Summary: The Winchesters need your help on a case and you finally get to meet Castiel.

Warnings: Angst, language, very brief smut

A/N:Tag is list is at the end, let me know if you’d like to be added.

—————

It had been 2 years since Steve had gone missing and you threw yourself back into hunting. You had become reckless, but in a sense you had become a better hunter. Even if you got hurt, you wouldn’t let it stop you from getting your kill. You also no longer allowed yourself to be distracted by the idea of happiness. “Hunters don’t get a happy ending,” you’d tell yourself.

You still kept in touch with Sam and Dean, but never divulged the real reason you went back to hunting; though they had their suspicions.

Currently, you were on your way to assist them with a case. You found yourself feeling something you hadn’t felt in a long time; excitement. The case itself wasn’t that exciting or difficult. They needed female bait, no biggie. But you were finally going to meet their angel friend, Castiel. You had heard than angels were dicks, but most humans you dealt with were also. You thought he might have some kind of better insight to life or grand wisdom or at very least, teach you better technique with an angel blade.

Your car started to ding at you, indicating that it was time to refuel. You had pulled behind a gold pimpmobile and laughed that it was being filled by what looked to be a business man in a trench coat.

“Nice car.” You joked as you passed by, heading inside for road snacks.

“Thank y…” he stopped abruptly when your eyes met.

“Steve?” you asked hesitantly, not really believing your own eyes. “Oh my god, is that you? You’re alive! You’re ok.” You were initially so overcome with relief that you had temporarily forgotten the pain of losing him. You rushed him and threw your arms around him.

“Y/N, wha… what are you doing here?” he sounded more surprised than happy to see you.

You pulled away quickly, feeling embarrassed at the sudden burst of emotion. “Um, work.”

Now that you were close to him, you got a good look at him. He looked like he was doing pretty well for himself, dressed in a suit instead of a crappy blue vest. It immediately made you angry as you began to question his disappearance. “What the hell happened to you? You just vanished. Not a word, call, even a fucking letter? What the fuck man?”

His jaw tensed and you could have swore you saw pain flash in his eyes, but he remained calm. “I’m sorry. I had no choice.”

His lack of an answer only fueled your rage. “That isn’t good enough, Steve! What? Were you married or something and reconciled? Criminal on the run?” You were losing the battle against your own tears. “I opened everything to you. My bed, my heart? You… you told me you loved me. Remember? Then you just bailed. And look at you now! You look like you’re doing pretty well for yourself.” You sighed sadly and your voice quieted. “I guess I was just a convenience; free place to stay and all the sex you could want.”

Your words cut him deeply. He never wanted to leave you behind. His past had caught up with him and he couldn’t hide from it anymore. He did love you and wanted to keep you safe. If he had tried to tell you the truth or bring you with him, you’d only be placed in danger. Hurting you was the last thing he wanted to do, but he thought it was necessary at the time. Now, he wasn’t so sure. “No. I… it’s complicated. You were so much more than a convenience to me. But, I had to leave. I thought I was doing the right thing.”

You rolled your eyes. “The right thing for who?!” You took a deep breath to calm yourself again before admitting what you really thought happened. “Look, I get it. You were down on your luck and I was there to provide a warm place to sleep. I suppose fucking me was just a bonus. Maybe you didn’t anticipate me falling for you, so you bailed when I did. Rip the band-aid off quickly so it doesn’t hurt at much.”

He rolled his eyes and let out an exasperated sigh, “It wasn’t like that! I did… care about you; immensely. I had pressing matters to attend to that would have put you in danger! I couldn’t do that to you.”

“Danger? From what, Steve? A rival accounting firm?!” You shouted, no longer caring if you were making a scene. “You know what? I’m glad you’re ok, I really am. Have a nice fucking life, asshole!” You hopped back into your car and sped away despite him calling after you to wait.

You were thankful when the numbness finally set in again; that was a feeling you had become more than accustomed to. You sped to your destination, hoping there weren’t any cops out.

————

You pulled into the motel parking lot next to the Impala. You were greeted by Sam and Dean when you knocked on their door. They immediately noticed how upset you looked. “Hey, kid, you look like you could use a drink.” You happily accepted. They briefed you on the case and informed you that Castiel would be here in the morning; he had finally realized that humans required sleep at night.

Standing up and stretching, you finally announced, “Alright, boys. I guess it’s time to go get myself a room and try to get some shut-eye.”

Dean piped up quickly, “You could always stay here, sweeetheart.” There was that tone again. That tone of ‘I know exactly how to get your mind off of whatever is bothering you.’ Sam picked up on it as well and excused himself from the room for a few hours.

You shrugged your shoulders. “Fuck it.” It had been a while and you could afford a distraction for the night; especially after the events from the day. You threw yourself on to Deans lap and kissed him hungrily.

“You need if rough this time don’t you, kid?” he growled into your neck. Dean was not someone you ever felt like you could spend your life with, but he certainly knew how to take care of you for an evening.

—————

You woke up the next morning, laying on Deans chest. You always found it to be interesting that he kept this tough-guy persona, but he was a major cuddler. You didn’t mind. It had been a long time since someone held you. Your thoughts drifted to Steve again which made you crave another “distraction.”

You were pleased to see that Sams bed was empty; he must have found somewhere else to sleep last night. You trailed your hand down Deans stomach until you reached what you were looking for. “God bless morning wood.”

“Mmm, morning sweetheart. Looking for round two, I see.” He groaned as he felt you stroking his hard member.

You weren’t looking for romance, you were looking to try to make yourself forget your own emotions. You hopped up quickly and sunk yourself down on him. He tried to rock slowly and draw it out. But you were looking for hard and fast. Frankly, you wanted it to hurt and to feel the soreness all day. You set a fast pace as you raced towards your release.

You were close to orgasm when the motel door opened suddenly causing Dean to yell out. “Hey! Come on man! Do not disturb, it says it right on the door!”

It was hard to distinguish the voice over Deans yelling, but you heard a man quickly utter “My apologies,” before the door closed again.

Dean gave you an embarrassed smile, “Sorry, he’s still a little off when it comes to normal behavior. "Now, where were we?”

—————

After you had finished your morning activities and had a shower, you and Dean exited the motel. You kept your face low because the embarrassment of being walked in on by an angel was still pretty high. You were still thankful that you had been facing away from the door, so you didn’t give him the full show.

Lifting your eyes, you saw the same gold car and the same trench coated man leaning against it. Instantly, your blood boiled. “Did you fucking follow me here? What the fuck Steve?!”

Dean had to hold you back as you lunged forward. “Woah! Calm down! You know him?! Cas, what the hell is going on?”

You wrenched yourself free from Deans hands and gave him a look of confusion mixed with anger. “Cas?! As in, Castiel? The fucking angel?” You threw your hands up in frustration. “Well isn’t this just perfect. It makes a lot of sense now. ”

Castiel finally managed to speak up, although he didn’t help himself at all. “Were you having intercourse with Dean?”

Both you and Dean narrowed your eyes at the angel. You spoke first, “Not that it is any of your damm business, but yeah! You walked in on me fucking Dean.” You actually felt a little proud when you saw jealousy flash across his face.

He opened his mouth to say something, but closed it and his jaw tensed.

You stood there in awkward silence for a moment before Dean suggested you talk to Castiel alone. He and Sam, who was all kinds of confused, left you two alone by the car.

The hurt you felt had now overtaken the anger and you spoke softly. “Ste… Cas, whatever your name is. I think I at least deserve to know why. Is this just something angels do? Was I anything more than just a toy to you?”

He reached out to grab your hand, only for you to pull away. “It’s not like that! I promise. It’s just…”

You snapped at him, “If you try to tell me it’s complicated one more time, I’m going to stab you. ”

He tilted his head and softened his eyes, “Y/N, you know that wouldn’t hurt me. Not unless you had an angel blade.”

You huffed and started walking back to your car. “What’s the point?”

He reached for your shoulder to stop you, “Where are you going?” You didn’t expect him to sound so worried.

You shoved his hand away from you and kept walking, “Like you care.”

He ran up to stand in front of you. “I do care! I will always care about you. What I did… I thought it was for the best. I left to keep you safe.”

“You think I’m mad because you left? Look, I’ve been dumped before. I would have been sad for a while, then moved on.” You felt your bottom lip quivering and tried to still yourself. “I thought you were dead! I was terrified that you were taken because of me, because of what I do. I’ve blamed myself every day since you disappeared. Now, I find out you just bailed.” You took a deep breath and wiped tears away with your sleeve. “How can you say that you care about me when you just let me think the worst had happened? How could you just leave without a word?”

His head dropped and he faced the ground like a kicked puppy. “I’m sorry. I wanted to tell you that I had to leave. I wanted to tell you everything. But… I just couldn’t do it.” He paused for a moment and sighed deeply. “I was a coward. I knew if I went back to see you, I’d never be able to leave without you. I couldn’t allow myself to put you in that kind of danger.”

You felt your resolve weakening; you weren’t ready to forgive him, but you were ready to let him explain himself. Unfortunately that would have to wait until later as you saw the Winchesters returning to where you and Castiel stood. It was time to get to work.

“You good, now?” Dean asked the question like it was that simple.

You shrugged, “Not really, but we’re fine for the moment.”

He pointed between you and Castiel, “We’re gonna have to talk about how you two know each other, but right now you’ve got to get dressed. You still have that little black number?”

“Nah, that one got torn up last year.” You winked and flashed a coy smile. “I’ve got a red one now.” You turned to head back into the motel room to change.

—————

Upon returning to the parking lot where Castiel and the Winchesters were waiting, you could hear Dean and Castiel arguing.

“Cas, I don’t care if you don’t like it! For this plan to work, we need her. This ain’t her first rodeo, man. She was hunting before she met you and, well, she’s been doing a fine job of it after you bailed on her!” You didn’t need Dean to defend you, but it was a nice gesture.

You actually got worried when Castiel grabbed Dean by the front of his jacket, lifted him up, and slammed him against the side of the car. He spoke in a low growl that you were trying your hardest to deny how hot it sounded. “It would be wise for you to watch your tone.”

Sam yelled for him to let Dean go and tried to break them apart, but angel strength is an impressive thing. You rolled you eyes and spoke calmly. “Castiel. Put the hunter down.” Everyone, including yourself, was shocked that he obeyed you. His bitch-faced glare remained on Dean, but he let him down.

When his eyes trailed to you, they widened some and he licked his lower lip. You weren’t going to deny that it was a confidence booster. What girl doesn’t want the ex who wronged her to think she looks good in a sexy outfit?

“You good?” you asked, mocking Dean. “We should get going, don’t want to be late to my evening of groping!”

You slid into the back seat of the Impala as Castiel got in on the other side. He was still tense and glaring out the window. He finally turned to you and spoke softly. “I am not comfortable with this, Y/N.”

You let out a small laugh, “Noted. No one’s asking you to be comfortable with it.” He rolled his eyes, but didn’t say anything. “Dean’s right, you know. I was doing this long before… us and I was hunting on my own again after you left.”

Now you were getting his irritated bitch-face aimed at you, but you didn’t mind it. “Get as mad as you want, it doesn’t change anything. It sounds pretty sexist, but half of being a young female hunter is being the bait. I do my job, which is to look like helpless, drunk prey and your job is to watch and make sure I don’t get killed. Ya dig?”

He scowled and nodded. “Yeah. I dig.”

—————

The night went smoothly which meant girls would no longer be going missing in this town. You were quite happy with the outcome, but tired from the fight. Sam had managed to impress the super-model looking bartender and went back to celebrate with her. When you got back to the motel with Dean and Castiel, you felt like you could almost smell the tension.

Dean, per the usual, spoke first. “So, you guys were a thing, huh?”

You let out an annoyed sigh as you didn’t really want to talk about it, but knew he wouldn’t let it go. “Yes, about 2 years ago. He lied and pretended to be a human cashier at a gas station named Steve. We sort of lived together for a few months. Then he left. Now you’re up to speed.”

Dean stared at you with wide eyes and then shook his head. “Wait! He’s the guy you were talking about when I asked you about that rogue angel?” He rubbed his hands over his face. “Wow, small world man, small world. Remember the other contact I had in town? That was Cas.”

Castiel finally spoke up, “I only pretended my name was Steve. I was a human employed as a sales associate. I wasn’t an angel at the time. I am again, now. It's…” he trailed off when you shot him a look warning him not to say “complicated” again.

“Well, Cas, I’ve gotta say that I’m impressed. I didn’t think you had it in you. She’s a feisty one, Y/N is.” Dean said with a wink.

You just rolled your eyes, you were used to the way Dean talked about sex. Castiel, however, was visibly annoyed by it. “You shouldn’t talk about her that way.”

Dean threw his hands up defensively, “Hey man, I’m just being honest here.” He stood up and moved to sit next to you on the bed and placed his hand on your knee. “I know from experience, Y/N and I go way back.”

Castiel stood abruptly and shouted, “Don’t touch her. She’s not yours.”

With that, you had enough. “Jesus fuck guys, can you put your dicks and the measuring tape away for a minute?!”

Castiel looked shocked and confused for a second and looked down. “I don’t have any measuring tape and our di…”

You cut him off with a laugh. “Still don’t understand certain phrases, huh? You guys seriously need to calm the hell down and quit this pissing contest. I don’t belong to anyone, so I’ll fuck who I please.” Dean flashed a smug look at Castiel. “Hey, pretty boy, that doesn’t mean I’m fucking YOU tonight. So wipe that damn smile off your face.”

Dean stood up and headed towards the motel door. “Whatever man. Look, you guys clearly have some shit to discuss still, so I’ll make myself scarce.” You knew that meant he was heading to another bar to have someone massage his bruised ego.

“I know I don’t have any right to feel this way, but I don’t like thinking about you and Dean… together.” The last word coming out in a disgusted tone.

“That’s not exactly true. You have the right to FEEL any way you do. What you don’t have the right to do is to try and lay claim to me.” Your narrowed eyes softened and you gave a small smile. “But I’ll let it pass this time. Dean was being an ass and trying to get under your skin.”

He raised his eyebrows and nodded. “He succeeded. His thoughts were much worse than his words.” He sighed and slumped back into the chair he was sitting in. “Jealousy is an unpleasant emotion. I’ve never experienced it like that before.”

“Yes, it is.” You flashed him a smile. “Good to know you’re the jealous type.” You internally cringed at your words and chastised yourself. You were flirting. Why were you flirting?! You’re supposed to hate him; but here you were flirting with him, alone in a motel room. You shook yourself from your thoughts and stood up. “Ok, here’s what’s going to happen. I’m going to take a shower and then you’re going to tell me this complicated story of yours. I think I deserve to know what happened.”

He nodded. “Yes, I suppose you do.”

————— Tag list: @splendidcas @grunge-crybabies @love-charmer-sketch @hamartiamacguffin @heavenlyrainyparis @crowleysminion @mysteriouslyme81 @bitchasaurus @smoothdogsgirl @aly-birleanu @djs-lacrimose @ourloveisforthelovely @docharleythegeekqueen

#GreenAppleEyes writes #castiel #castiel x reader #cas x reader #castielxreader #Castiel angst #Dean Winchester #supernatural #supernatural fanfiction #supernatural fic #castiel reader insert #spn fanfic #Castiel series

74 notes · View notes

coriwilbur-blog · 7 years

Text

20 Essential Albums to Take Your Record Collection From Novice to Noble

One thing I have learned from record collecting is that it is a lifelong commitment. One’s record collection is never complete – there is always a record you don’t own. Collecting and acquiring yet another vinyl can become addicting – I am a full-blown addict at this point. However, it can also be an overwhelming process – having to choose between which record to buy makes my head spin.

This is why I have created a list to help make this decision easier, especially if you are fairly novice at the art of vinyl collecting. I have been collecting since I was 16, having been blessed with a substantial starting point from my parents. Over the years, I have expanded their collections exponentially, having delved into further pockets of classic rock they never dared to explore before. In contrast to the direction the majority of other “albums everyone should own” type lists, I tried to avoid the trite, the most popular, the most obvious choices – going for more of a deeper-cut, heavy hitting and unique list of sorts. Here are the 20 albums I think everyone should own.

1. The Beatles - Revolver

As every music junkie knows, from the amateur record collector to classic rock expert, a record collection is not a record collection without The Beatles. No band has been able to surpass them in their music accomplishments and influence. And no one else has come up with an album nearly as good as Revolver – unless maybe the Beatles themselves. But what makes 1966’s Revolver so critical to a vinyl collection is that it marks the point in the Beatles’ work where they began to venture off, expanding their appeal past the hearts of teenage girls. This was where they showed how much more they could offer than just “yeah yeah yeah.” The themes are darker, deeper and wilder than anything they had ever done – including the George Harrison staple “Taxman,” one of Paul McCartney’s greatest achievements “Eleanor Rigby,” the most identifiable Ringo tune “Yellow Submarine” and of course, the show-stopping “Tomorrow Never Knows.”

2. The Beach Boys - Surf’s Up

Sure, sure Pet Sounds is technically the most significant Beach Boys’ work but take a listen to Surf’s Up and you will understand why it is on this list. Think Beach Blanket Babylon meets Kent State University – in fact, there is a song on here about student protests called “Student Demonstration Time.” Since Pet Sounds, the Beach Boys had been moving away from their “surfer” image, taking a similar path as the Beatles circa 1966. “Feel Flows,” a piece created almost entirely by Carl Wilson, paints a dreamy wonderland, ‘enveloping missiles of soul.’ Where all of their traditional Beach Boys sounding albums were light, meant to evoke nothing more than a feeling of endless summer, The track “Surf’s Up” hits you like a high-tide and shows that the water isn’t always surf able and eventually, summer turns into fall. The entire Surf’s Up album allows you to get to know the intellectuals behind the beach bums.

3. Pink Floyd - Wish You Were Here

Pink Floyd is my favorite band of all time and own all but one of their albums, so you can imagine how difficult it was for me to choose the one most critical for an awesome record collection. If you can get your hands on any Floyd album, you’re off to a great start. The obvious choice would definitely be Dark Side of the Moon so I’m going to recommend Wish You Were Here instead. Like, Dark Side – or any Floyd album, really – Wish You Were Here is a concept album, inspired by the mental demise of founding member Syd Barrett. Wish You Were Here is also a giant “fuck you” to record companies – I have a huge soft spot for anything with an anti-establishment message – with the tracks “Welcome to the Machine” and “Have a Cigar.” But the really shining moment is on the title track “Wish You Were Here,” where the band strips down to an uncharacteristically acoustic sound. “We’re just two lost souls swimming in a fishbowl, year after year” laments David Gilmour – so eerie, so dark, so Pink Floyd.

4. David Bowie - Lodger

The third album of Bowie’s “Berlin Trilogy” – who doesn’t love a collaboration with Brian Eno – is also his strongest. (Although, unless you are a devoted Bowie fan down to the core, you may or may not recognize any of the tracks right off the bat). Bowie albums are extremely hard to find for a reasonable price since his death a year ago and what not, so if you are going to splurge on one – pay over $20 for a record – make the purchase count and grab Lodger if you have the pleasure. Truly a “Fantastic Voyage,” 1979’s Lodger showcases Bowie’s musical abilities that no other one of his albums truly does – experimenting with African drum sounds on “African Night Flight” and paying homage to Lou Reed’s obsession with noise at the end of “Boys Keep Swinging.” Other highlights include “Move On,” “Red Sails,” “Look Back in Anger,” “Yassassin,” “DJ,” Repetition” and “Red Money.” Oh wait, oops, I just listed every track. Moral of the story: buy Lodger.

5. Talking Heads - Remain in Light

I am a firm believer that Brian Eno brings out the best in any already other-worldly gifted musician. The last of the three Heads-Eno collab albums, 1980’s Remain in Light was the Talking Head’s effort to prove that the other band members weren’t just back-up for frontman David Byrne. Listening to this album dispels any of such accusations. The commercially successful track is obviously “Once in a Lifetime,” but there’s so much more to this album than meets the eye. “The Great Curve” is the unsung hero here – the entire album a remarkable transition from the late 70s into the 80s. “You may say, this is not my beautiful house,” but why go for what you know, when you can have the Heads at their musical best.

6. Billy Joel - The Stranger

Out of all of the albums on this list, 1976’s The Stranger is one of the only one’s stylistically perfect in essence – seriously, it’s that good. From the get go you can tell this album is something special when you hear the beginning notes of “Movin Out.” And it’s just an upward slope from there, obviously hitting a climax with “Vienna” and “Just the Way You Are.” What’s so good about Billy Joel albums is that he sticks with a concept without being a “Dark Side of the Moon” level of obviousness or complexity – The Stranger is clearly about a young man emancipating himself, struggling to adopt an identity (“The Stranger”), finding masochistic love with a destructive woman (“She’s Always a Woman”) and seeing a dim light at the end of the dismal tunnel that is life (“Everybody Has a Dream”). Optimistically pessimistic is a good way to put it – take “Only the Good Die Young” for example; melding longing and belonging if you will. There is nothing cool about Billy Joel. Actually he’s downright hoaky and well, kind of lame. But there is something about his ability to sing about hopelessness and morbidity in such a hopeful and lively way that gets me going every time. I love him for all of his cheese and splendor; this album is a huge part of the reason why.

7. Steely Dan - Countdown to Ecstasy

I was basically born mandated to love Steely Dan so it was very hard for me to choose which album is “the most important,” but since I am being forced to pick, my vote is for their sophomore work. Countdown to Ecstasy, the follow-up to a seemingly impossible to follow-up Can’t Buy a Thrill, is a remarkable home run. Steely Dan, a band that every parent seems to have had some weird obsession with in the 70s, is way more complex than any music writer’s ability to analyze. Yet, I still find myself able to relate to tracks like “Showbiz Kids” and “My Old School” – the latter more so than any other song in this world. The key is to not try to understand Steely Dan so much as treasure them, just like any other one of your parents’ odd quirks or idiosyncrasies.

8. The Clash - Sandinista!

“The only band that matters,” The Clash’s Sandinista! came out in 1980, a follow-up to London Calling – a seemingly impossible record to beat. But Sandinista! goes one step further – it is a triple album – creating a whole new level of punk triumph. Sure, the album could be about ten songs shorter but, hell, why should it be? The Clash, who took punk, contorted it into a pretzel and turned anarchy into poetry, proved with this three record masterpiece that they could not be stopped – or at least until Mick Jones’ departure left us with Cut the Crap. Starting off solid with “The Magnificent Seven,” Sandinista! takes you on a wild journey – is the album, punk or reggae? Most of the time the answer is both but honestly, who cares? The band adopted an obsession with ‘dub’ – a form of reggae remixing – and was able to implement some of their previous tracks – “Police & Thieves” – in a new and exciting way. The ultimate stars of the show are obviously “Police On My Back” and “Charlie Don’t Surf,” but there’s so much else in between (and after) that is worth it that you easily lose yourself fand before you know it, you’ve spent the last two plus hours listening to punk rock.

9. Neil Young - Decade

I know the idea of even one triple album seems overwhelming but hear me out. Decade is Neil Young’s Greatest Hits album, so it can be listened to in full, in parts, out of order, however the hell you want to enjoy your Neil. The main point I’m trying to get across is that you need at least one Neil Young album and if you didn’t get graced with a father who worshipped the guy – meaning I have every single one of his albums known to man – you might as well pick one where you can have a collection of most of his best tunes compiled together. “Cinnamon Girl,” “After the Gold Rush,” “Old Man,” “Like a Hurricane,” “Harvest” and of course, “Heart of Gold” are all included. For a dude with such an expansive career, it’s amazing he was able to narrow the album down to just three discs!

10. Prince - Purple Rain

What Beethoven’s 9th Symphony was to him, Purple Rain is to Prince. Single-handedly one of the, if not the, most important pop music achievements to come out of the 80s, Purple Rain is Prince’s magnum opus. Now more than ever, mostly due to the artist’s untimely death last year, people ransack record stores for this album, and nearly pounce on me when I say I uncovered a copy for less than $20. And I’m all for the enthusiasm...obviously. From “When Doves Cry,” “Let’s Go Crazy” and the eponymous “Purple Rain,” to lesser known (but equally great) tracks like “The Beautiful Ones” and “Darling Nikki,” this album is the epitome of Prince’s musical and sexual genius. Not to mention that it is also a soundtrack to the movie of the same name.

11. The Doors - L.A. Woman

Not having acquired the Doors’ self-titled debut, L.A. Woman was going to have to do. And let me tell you, L.A. Woman, ironically their last before Jim Morrison’s untimely death, is better. By the time this album was released, the Doors had been banned from much receiving much airplay due to Morrison’s obscene and erratic behavior. Despite all the scandal, L.A. Woman contains some of the band’s biggest hits – “Love Her Madly,” “L.A. Woman” and “Riders on the Storm.” A concept album of sorts about life and love in Los Angeles, L.A. Woman was a great note for the Morrison-led era to end on, if it had to end.

12. Bee Gees - Bee Gee’s 1st

Long ago, before the dawn of “Saturday Night Fever,” the Bee Gee’s were just another 60s pop band. In fact, they had an extensive career before Tony Manero. Chest hair and disco fever aside, this album is nothing but pure, clean, simple pop music without a doubt – and really good pop music at that. The most notable track is definitely “To Love Somebody,” the song that ultimately put them on the radar in the first place, but there are so many other tunes that are equally as delightful – “Craise Finton Kirk Royal Academy of Arts” and “Close Another Door.” Bee Gee’s 1st is evidence that the Brothers Gibb from down didn’t need to be clad in polyester pants to produce enjoyable music.

13. Funkadelic - Maggot Brain

Is it funk? Is it heavy metal? No, it’s Funkadelic! The god child of George Clinton and a band that refuses to be defined by traditional funk music rules – not that I could define them if I wanted to. Funkadelic’s piece de resistance, Maggot Brain is something from an entirely different universe – two minutes into the opening title track and you will be asking yourself “Who slipped acid into my coffee?” Next you will be saying, “Wait, I didn’t have any coffee! What the fuck is this?” But trust me, when the funk riff of “Can You Get to That” takes hold, you will be glad you joined the Soul Train from Mars.

14. The Rolling Stones - Get Yer Ya Ya’s Out

The only live album on this list, Get Yer Ya Ya’s Out makes you feel like you are actually at a Rolling Stones concert. And boy, is it a great experience. Riding off the wave of Beggar’s Banquet, the Stones released this live compilation before the release of Let it Bleed. Ya Ya’s is everything you could ask in a live album and more – “Jumpin Jack Flash,” “Honky Tonk Woman” and “Sympathy for the Devil” all make appearances. However, it is the nine minute rendition of “Midnight Rambler” with the extended harmonica solo that earned this record a spot on this list above other Stones’ works.

15. The Grateful Dead - The Grateful Dead

Nearly impossible to get used anymore for a remotely reasonable price, the 1967 debut, self-titled album from the Dead is worth the money, just ask any self-proclaimed Deadhead – I got lucky and acquired this album as a hand-me-down, unbeknownst of its value. Containing the influence of founding member Pigpen, who died in 1972 (RIP), the album comes at you strong from the first track “The Golden Road,” and continues to take you on a splendid, psychedelic journey, ending with a bang on the 10-minute long “Viola Lee Blues.” It’s a wonderful introduction into the “grate” career that was the Dead. Every collection needs at least one of their albums and if you strike gold with a copy of this one, grab it and guard it with your life.

16. Led Zeppelin - Led Zeppelin III

The third installment of the band’s self-titled album series, Led Zeppelin III marked a turning point for them. This was where they began to divert from their heavy metal-esque sound – the genre that happened because of them – and what they created instead was something from an even further away planet than both of the albums that precede it – a place I like to call “Fern Gully Rock” (i.e. “Gallows Pole”). Weirder, rougher and more Lord-of-the-Rings-ish than anything they had ever done up to this point – 1970 to be exact – Led Zeppelin III is the godliest of the holy trinity. What truly makes Led Zeppelin the metaliest of the metal bands is their ability to start an album with something like “Immigrant Song” and then say ‘fuck it’ and follow it with a beautiful work of poetry like “Tangerine.” And let’s not forget the last track on the first side “Since I’ve Been Loving You,” where Jimmy Page literally puts you into a state of hypnosis with his guitar solo. Definitely the most underrated of the four self-titled albums but by no means is it any less magical.

17. The Cars - The Cars

It’s so easy to dismiss The Cars as another “decent” band to come out of the 80s, you forget a couple of things: a) The Cars actually are a part of the late-70s New Wave movement (this debut album came out in 1978) and b) they are clean, tight and innovative musicians – just listen to that riff a la Benjamin Orr from “In Touch With Your World.” This album is almost like a “greatest hits” type compilation, consisting of hit after hit like “Good Times Roll,” “My Best Friend’s Girl” and “Just What I Needed;” the plot twist is that it’s not a “greatest hits” album, but in fact, it is their debut, which put The Cars on the map as punk-new wave pioneers. A part of a movement alongside acts like Blondie and the Talking Heads, it is easy for The Cars to fade into the background. But they shouldn’t and this album will instantly become one of your most played in your collection.

18. Bob Dylan - John Wesley Harding

With so many important works under his belt, from Highway 61 Revisited to Blood on the Tracks, Bob Dylan was obviously going to make an appearance here. John Wesley Harding is definitely way more underrated than it should be. Recorded after his miraculous recovery from that motorcyle accident, John Wesley Harding is more “down to earth” in its lyricism when compared to the wordy nature of his previous albums – “The Ballad of Frankie Lee and Judas Priest” is the only relatively lengthy, Dylan-esque ballad. Another remarkable characteristic of this album in particular, is the use of society’s “rejects” as a central figure in the subsequent tracks “Drifter’s Escape,” “Dear Landlord” and “I Am a Lonesome Hobo.” The album also includes his original version of “All Along the Watchtower” – the sole reason I bought this album in the first place. The reasons to purchase John Wesley Harding go way beyond that point, however. Constituted from a dark and simple place – this record is Bob Dylan sans his rambling riff raff, allowing you to truly hear why he is regarded so highly.

19. Supertramp - Breakfast in America

Supertramp, a band with one great albums and a few other, eh not so great ones. But when it was great, it was really really great – case in point, Breakfast in America. Both of my parents managed to contribute a copy of this 1979 record, which is exceptionally remarkable given that they followed two vastly different musical paths in their time. It’s easy to understand why they both loved this album, however, with tracks like “Goodbye Stranger,” “Take the Long Way Home” and obviously, “Breakfast in America.” Even if you have no idea who Supertramp is, I can guarantee you’ve at least heard “The Logical Song” once in your life. A seemingly random choice to be included on this list, give it a chance and you’ll understand why I have deemed it a necessity.

20. Simon and Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Water

The last album of folk legends, Simon and Garfunkel, Bridge Over Troubled Water is flawless in every sense of the word. What sets Simon and Garfunkel apart from the other musicians of their time is that they don’t just make music, they create art – Bridge Over Troubled Water being their Mona Lisa. “The Boxer” is a triumph, not just for the duo, not just for folk, but for all rock. Other notable tracks are “The Only Living Boy in New York,” “Keep the Customer Satisfied” and obviously, “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” The last on the list but certainly not the least by any means, this album is guaranteed to make you feel some type of way.

Every list is going to be biased depending on what the author’s collection contains. I am going to be honest, my list is completely biased. However, I’m going to impart it on you anyways because I believe I am an expert on the matter.

0 notes