Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Hello CMFers,

Since the boys had their day in the sun (rain, if you were in Vancouver) last week, I thought it was only fair to balance it out with these three ladies this week. So get ready for lots of clear, twangy, pretty vocals and stuff.

The First: Want It All by Cam

That twang. Also, that hair. Both things I seriously envy about good ol' Cam.
This lovely lady released her first record last week and it's a good one, as promised by her single My Mistake.
She also is still super into yellow. I respect a woman with this degree of commitment.


The Second: Shut Up And Fish by Maddie & Tae

I mostly just think this song is funny and extraordinarily catchy.
But I am also now going to have to remember "madder than a hornet in an old coke can" for future use because that just paints a very clear picture of someone who is quite perturbed.


The Third and Final: I Wish I Was by Maren Morris

I'm calling this bluesy country, which I'm really loving for the record. It combines two of my three favourite genres of music: country and jazz. The third genre on my list is musical theatre, which I assume would be a tricky combo attempt, outside of Annie Get Your Gun and Oklahoma!.


Finally, you get a bonus this week because Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton did this a month ago. ("Anyone born after 1997 thinks Justin Timberlake is an okay actor who is just now breaking into the music industry." - a hilarious thing I once read on Instagram).

Thanks for listening,!
Karla

Good Ole Boys

Hello CMF lovelies!

I hope you've all had a fantastic week and are gearing up for an exciting weekend! I don't know what your plans are, but I'm sure they're good ones. If you're in need of assistance in making your weekend particularly festive, please note that I shared a list of Country Christmas songs earlier this week, for your listening pleasure. You are most certainly welcome.

The First: Maybe It's The Moonshine by The Washboard Union

These wonderful men and their beards are at it again! I haven't shared a solid sing-along-in-the-car song in a while, but here you go. Hopefully it makes you feel a little sunshine-y, especially for those of you who have had the pleasure of experiencing this lovely sideways rain Vancouver's been conjuring up lately.


The Second: Fire Away by Chris Stapleton

Rough and gravelling and glorious. That's what this song is.
Those also happen to be the three words I typically use to describe myself, in case you were wondering.


The Third and Final: Think Of You by Chris Young (feat. Cassadee Pope)

Chris Young's voice will never get old.
On a side note, I do realize that Cassadee's vocal presence in this song kind of contradicts the title for this week, but the truth is I'm much too lazy to change it at this juncture. I'm afraid we're all just going to have to live with it.


That's all from me this week! Enjoy this collage of selections - I didn't really know what I was sitting down to write but can honestly say that I'm rather pleased with how this week shaped up. Hope the feeling's mutual.

Thanks for listening!
Karla

My Top Ten Country Christmas Songs 2015

We're now well into December, so I figured it was the perfect time to share my favourite country Christmas songs with all of you.
Below is a mixture of both traditional and new songs that get me into the holiday spirit!

Please note: this is best enjoyed with some mulled wine and friends, preferably with the sparkling lights of a tree in the background of the instagram photo we both know you'll end up taking.


1. Run, Run, Rudolph by Luke Bryan

I rarely share Luke Bryan but I love this version of the song! Also, please enjoy his guitar strap lights.


2. Oklahoma Christmas by Blake Shelton (feat. Reba)

One time Blake sang this song with his Mom instead of Reba and it was just as wonderful as you would expect.


3. Go Tell It On The Mountain by Little Big Town

Possibly one of my favourite Christmas classics, sung by a group that can vocally do no wrong.


4. Winter Wonderland by Darius Rucker

Thank you, Hootie.


5. White Christmas by Home Free

You didn't even know you needed country a cappella in your life until now, did you? (Their entire Christmas album Full of Cheer is great, if you're super into them).


6. The Wood Shed Is Full by Dean Brody

Not a classic... yet.


7. Jingle Bell Rock by Rascal Flatts

Their twang rings louder than any of those jingle bells.


8. Santa Looked A Lot Like Daddy by Brad Paisley

Can't beat a little Paisley around the holidays.


9. Merry Christmas Baby by Hunter Hayes

I just had to include the little musical gem that is Hunter Hayes.


10. Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow by Lady Antebellum

But actually. I would like some snow this year, please.


And finally, Leroy the Redneck Reindeer as a bonus, mostly because that mullet will not be denied.


Thanks for listening and happy holidays!
Karla

Music and Lyrics

I started off wanting to do a week of sweep-you-off-your-feet lovey dovey lyrics and I had no idea what to call it. I've now somehow landed on this homage to a Hugh Grant movie that I am only 43% sure I've seen. In summary, these are three songs that have lines in them that make me swoon just a teeny tiny bit whenever they come on.

The First: Could It Be by Charlie Worsham

"Who knows we might go down in flames, then again I might just change your name"

Now, even though I am definitively confident that I do not ever want to change any part of the name my incredible mother spent nine months picking out for me (Karla-Christina Theresa Pratt? No. Karla-Christina Theresa Reynolds? Also no. Those all sound terrible*. Karla-Christina Theresa Carreras? Yaaassss.), I still do really like the idea behind this line. He's basically saying, then again I MIGHT JUST MARRY YOU SO LET'S SEE WHERE THIS GOES. Which is just a really sweet thought to have at the beginning of something. On the other hand, you might be thinking, "HECK NO that's not a sweet thought at all, you're crazy!" and to that I would say, "Clearly this is not the person for you since you're having such an extremely negative reaction. Why are you two even dating?"

(*Yes, I was just imagining myself married to either Chris Pratt or Ryan Reynolds, thankyouverymuch. And to be clear, I wasn't saying no to them. I was just saying no to their last names.)

The Second: Don't You Wanna Fall by Frankie Ballard

"Don't you wanna fall?"

Just super straight to the point here. A few months ago I spent a weekend listening to nothing but this album from Frankie Ballard. I don't know how it happened, or why, but the fact is that it did. And this was the song that I kept on falling back to. 

(Did you catch that?)

I hope you like it too.

The Third and Final: Ours by Taylor Swift

Don't you worry your pretty little mind, people throw rocks at things that shine... 

The stakes are high, the water's rough, but this love is ours.

CONTROVERSY. I've selected a tswift song. I will argue that this song still has enough of a hint of country, even if there is no country twang. Anyways, these lyrics. I unabashedly love them. And this song. And Taylor Swift. 

It's fine. Don't worry about it. Everyone has a guilty pleasure, right? Mine is chocolate. And also mini fruit marshmallows. And popcorn. 

Oh, and also Taylor Swift.

If I was allowed to feature songs more than once, then you better believe Sundy Best's Until I Met You would be on here. But unfortunately, I make the rules around here. And I say I can't feature a song more than once outside of Top Tens. 

I'm the worst.

Thanks for listening!

Karla

Country Covers

Well, well, well. What do we have here? Another Friday.

And with Fridays come country music.

This week I was recommended to feature country covers, which I thought was a wonderful way to highlight great songs and new artists. So let's do this.


The First: Riot covered by Sara Haze

First off, what an excellent song originally recorded by the always great Rascal Flatts. Secondly, I think this girl's voice is so clear and beautiful, and I recommend you also checking out some of Sara's other stuff. For example, her Opry performance of I Want You Anyway definitely highlights her vocals skills. (Yes, I just said "vocal skills"). Thirdly... I really don't have anything else to say about this song other than I hope you enjoy it.


The Second: Runnin' Outta Moonlight covered by Brandon Ray

OKAY. Things that make me laugh now, but initially made me not want to watch this video: his friends are drinking capri suns and raving about how "sweet" their bmx's are. Are they still in fifth grade? Possibly. Isn't it a little dark out for fifth graders to be causing a ruckus in the town square? Absolutely.
The good news is that Brandon is freaking excellent and does a great job with this song. Like a really great job. Like, I would kinda be okay hanging out with his fifth grade friends if it meant that Brandon would just serenade me all the time.


The Third and Final: Colder Weather covered by James David Carter

Allow me to begin by saying that this is one of my top three favourite Zac Brown Band songs. That's a pretty intense statement since we all know how much I love ZBB. Having said that, I think James does justice to this V.I.S. (Very Important Song). Now, he gets a little (read: super) dramatic around 2:45, which I could do without if I'm being honest, but his voice is still good so I let that slide. James apparently also auditioned for The Voice at some point. I don't watch that show nor do I feel obliged to go look up how he did, but I hope he did well. If you know, feel free to let me know.

That's it for this week! I hope you have discovered a new artist or two that you like and that I've now sent you off to a weekend of falling into that dark, perpetual rabbit hole lovingly known as youtube.

Thanks for listening!
Karla

Nothing exciting has happened in the last 24 hours

As you may have guessed, I don't really have anything too important to share. The last 24 hours have been pretty standard. I woke up. Worked out. Had some meetings. Did some work. Ate some food. Heard some vocal performances by Little Big Town that legitimately changed my life. Stretched. Went to bed. Now we're here.

Really nothing to report.

The First: Boondocks by Little Big Town

SO THIS CONCERT. Let's talk about it.
Their harmonies: on point.
Their song selection: excellent.
Their theatrics: subtle and not so overwhelming that it takes away from the music.
I've chosen this classic mostly because I realized that I hadn't up until this point and that seems shameful. They closed with it last night and it really was the best last song. Also, for the record, the ending of this song is hands down the best part.


The Second: Won't You Be Mine by Bobby Wills

You have permission to not watch the video. It's weird and has no clear storyline.
Actually, maybe go ahead and watch it if you like watching confusing videos.

I like this song because, as most of you know, I get oddly enthusiastic about songs that have clapping parts. Exhibit A. Exhibit B. Also it doesn't take itself too seriously and I think that's what we all need right now.

PS If you like watching confusing videos (or if you just need a serious laugh), please enjoy this incredible gem that a student shared with me last week. I've been forcing people to watch it all week - that's how good it is. The epitome of Fox News.


The Third and Final: Crazy Beautiful Sexy by my faves Old Dominion

I HAVE BEEN REMISS. Old Dom released their debut album Meat and Candy (gross) several weeks ago and we HAVE NOT TALKED ABOUT IT.
I will say this: they do not disappoint. The entire album is everything I had hoped for and more. Simply put, every single new song is perfect.
I only chose this song because it is the first one I listened to and since we have seven new songs to work through, I had to start somewhere.
(There's also clapping.)


Okay. I think I've now exhausted myself by all the music-related excitement that's happened in this edition of CMF. I feel like my four-year-old niece on Christmas morning after opening all the presents: hungry and ready for a nap.

Enjoy your Friday! Only a few more hours until you can go home, pour that glass of wine, and unwind from the week.

Thanks for listening!
Karla

Oldies but goodies.

To be honest I don't know what's new in country this week. So we're sticking to oldies but goodies because a) they need love too, b) when else am I going to showcase them? and finally c) it's the safest option considering my current lack of awareness.


The First: Bourbon in Kentucky by Dierks Bentley ft. some vocal love from Kacey Musgraves

How appropriate is this video right now amidst all this Alaskan rain? (That's right: it's a weather system that's come on down from Alaska. I like to do my weather-related research, thank you). But actually 1:57 is basically all of Vancouver right now. Thanks, Sarah Palin.

This song is an old favourite when I'm in a rainy moody mood. That's a phrase I just came up with, although the concept is not new at all. Essentially it just involves cozying up on the couch with a fluffy blanket near a window that I've opened just a tiny bit so that I can hear the rain, while a glass of wine, a book, and Dierks keep me company. Rainy moody moods are actually super pleasant, despite what the name may lead you to believe.


The Second: Hip To My Heart by The Band Perry

Ahhh TBP. I linked a live-in-studio version of this song that I think is incredible and a little funkier and a little banjo-ier than the recorded version, which is also great but different. I'm in love with this version and am really sad that I've lost out on five years of not knowing it existed. Ugh.
In other news, can we take uno momento to talk about how fun it would be to just start emphasizing sentences by saying "brother man"? I think it would be awesome. Just picture this with me:
"Excuse me, brother man! Can you please pass me the hot sauce?"
"Hi. I'd like a ticket for one to Sleepless in Seattle. Yes, that's right, just the one... brother man."
"Dear Santa, I would like a Princess Unicorn doll under the tree this year. BROTHER MAN!"

PS Kimberly Perry: I want your outfit. Thanks.


The Third and Final: On Fire Tonight by Little Big Town

Hey... have I mentioned at all that LBT is in concert in the greater Vancouver area next week? Probably not... I've been trying to be super subtle and quiet about it over the last few months.

I AM VERY EXCITED. And I anticipate that this song is basically a description of what will happen in real life next Thursday. Get ready to hear all about it.

It's the weekend in a few short hours and I hope it's a good one for you. I also hope that you are able to keep dry out there and take care when puddle-jumping.

Thanks for listening,
Karla

Don't be shy, be yoncé

So Eric Church took a lesson from Beyoncé (or George Strait, if you're looking for a country reference) and spontaneously released a brand new album on Wednesday by casually just emailing it to members of his fan club (cleverly named the Church Choir, by the way... so good!). Just like, "Hey, how are y'all doing? Yeah, I'm good too. Really happy to have gotten that extra hour of sleep on the weekend, y'know. But oh my goodness now it's sooo dark out, SO early, amiright? Oh hey by the way I made this for you *INSERT NEW ALBUM HERE*"

Literally* that's what he said. How wonderfully outrageous is that?!

(*Okay so maybe not literally, but that was what it felt like.)


The First: Mr. Misunderstood by Eric Church

How could I not include his first single after that intro? I had no choice, really. Now, I will preface by saying that this is not my favourite track off the album. My favourite track off the album upon my first few listens is Knives of New Orleans. BUT YOU CANNOT HOLD ME TO THAT. I've barely had time to really delve into it, if you consider time spent working and sleeping since Wednesday afternoon. And I need time to settle on important life decisions such as this one. But for now, it's that one. Followed closely by Round Here Buzz, which also conveniently follows it on the track list.

Now for the song at hand. I do like Mr. Misunderstood. But I also immediately think of Kelly Clarkson and her song Miss Independent every time I hear it and that jars me a little. So now you know my hesitation.


The Second: Drunk On Your Love by Brett Eldredge

Listen. Brett's been on fire lately, in my mind. And I do mean fire in more ways than one, if you'll recall. I like this one because I think it's different and funky and good.

That's all there is to it.


The Third and Final: Arms of Fire by Brothers Osborne

This is what me giving up and giving in looks like.

I've wanted to feature this song for ages. Ages. But since they haven't released it as a single and it really doesn't look like they're ever going to (shameful), it means that they don't have a recorded version of the song on Youtube for me to share with you. And even though you all know my adoration for live music, the thing is that I don't feel this version really does the song justice. So, I IMPLORE YOU to please listen to the recorded version (it's faster and smoother) of this song on your iTunes or Spotify or whatever.

You owe it to yourself.


Please enjoy your weekend.

Thanks for listening!
Karla

No Name Post

Helllllloooooo.

Welcome to the I-don't-know-what-number of CMF iterations. Lovely to have you here. So glad you could make it.

You know how sometimes you see a road titled "No Name Road" or there's that grocery brand called "No Name Brand"? And do you ever think to yourself, "That's kind a witty - they couldn't think of a name, but then their lack of name became their name!? And you think about how it was a super smart idea? Well that's what I've done here. Because my brain is exhausted. And also because I'm super smart.


The First: Even If It Breaks Your Heart by Eli Young Band

Just throwing it way back (even though it's not Thursday) to this song that I forgot about. When it first came out I tried to learn it on guitar and failed miserably, despite the efforts of my ever patient guitar-playing father to teach me. So perhaps subconsciously I stopped listening to it out of fear of being reminded of that experience. But then it came on the other day and I haven't been able to get it out of my head. And what do I do with things that get stuck in my head? I lovingly pass them along to all of you on Fridays.


The Second: Running for You by Kip Moore

I thought I would share with you the entire monologue that happened in my brain when I first heard this song on the radio a few days ago. Allow me to set the scene: Monday morning. Let's say it was approximately 8:49am. I'm in my car, driving to work. Still a little sleepy because I thought tea would suffice on what was clearly a coffee morning. The song starts to play...
"Is this Johnny Reid? It sounds like it might be Johnny Reid... How in the world did Johnny Reid manage to come out with a song that I am actually kind of super into? This can't be JR... can it? Either way, I'm loving this song. Way to redeem yourself after years of (in my opinion) subpar music, Johnny!!"
Parked my car, and because my curiosity got the best of me, I looked up the song on my walk to my office...
"Oh. Nevermind. It's Kip Moore. Yes, that makes more sense."


The Third and Final: Head Over Boots by Jon Pardi

I've been head over boots for Jon Pardi's music lately, so here I am to shamelessly share yet one more with you. I'm fully aware it's because of his intense twang.
One thing I am not a fan of: the questionable CGI animations throughout this video (for example, why a tiny hat? Why is the tiny hat only twice as big as the abandoned playing cards? That seems highly inaccurate.).
One thing I am a big fan of: "You're the rock in my roll. You're good for my soul, it's true. I'm head over boots for youuuu."


So I don't personally celebrate Halloween (mostly because I dislike dressing up in costume) but I do wish a happy and safe evening to all of you who do! I will likely be at home watching Gilmore Girls and eating halloween candy I pretend to buy for trick or treaters to save face with the cashier in Safeway, even though we both fully know that that box of 94 chocolate bars will just be for me.

Thanks for listening,
Karla

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Dreams

I am currently being a lazy bones on my couch eating a peanut butter cup or two (okay actually three, if we're being honest), drinking a peppermint tea blend called "Christmas Eve" (which I drink 12 months out of the year because it's delicious,) and listening to country music (big shocker there). It's really nice be back home.

I feel it is important for you to know that I blame my extreme spike in peanut butter cup intake on the fact that you can find large quantities of individually wrapped ones in stores for Halloween and that I have an inherent need to exploit the convenience provided by this time of year. These lovely little wonders are essential to my happiness (because peanut butter and chocolate is the best flavour combination) and getting them in their current snack-sized state makes every day feel a little bit like Christmas (which makes the tea seem a little less out of place, doesn't it?).


The First: Ain't No Trucks In Texas by Ronnie Dunn

This may be a kind of sad song if you listen too closely to the lyrics, so I advise you to not do that if you are currently in the midst of some sort of lost love heartache. Personally, I'm just a big fan of Ronnie's voice and that's the reason I'm sharing. Because sharing, as we all know, is caring. (You're welcome.)


The Second: Rocket by Josh Dorr

Do I love the grainy-ness of his voice? Yes.
Do I like the melody of the chorus? Of course.
Am I super into the way he sings "rocket" like he's throwing it away? Absolutely.
I hope you do too.
And if, for some crazy reason, this song wasn't good enough for you, I strongly encourage you to listen to Save Your Breath which just might make you literally fall in love.


The Third and Final: Johnny Cash by Jason Aldean

I really don't have a reason for choosing to feature this song today other than it came on the radio yesterday and I just thought, "Why not throw some love at Jason Aldean?" (Yes, that's right. I sometimes throw love at people.) I like the run-on-sentence style of this song, which you may remember is not the first time I've been a fan of poor grammar in country music.


I wish you all a marvellous weekend full of chocolate and peanut butter! Unless you're allergic, in which case I am desperately sorry and certainly do not wish for you to have a peanut butter and chocolate-y weekend. Anaphylaxis does not seem like a good way to spend your weekend.*

*It's important for you to know that I fell asleep but continued to type here and instead wrote "anaphylaxis does not seem like it loved me" What? I don't know. It's a good thing we're at the end because my brain is clearly in need of some sleep. And probably some more Reese Cups, just for good measure.


Thanks for listening!
Karla

A Cat Lady in Kenya

This past week in Kenya has been a wonderful whirlwind. We've met a lot of family, visited with friends, and took a mini trip out to the coast to a town called Mombasa for two nights. Also, jet lag is my nemesis. I have yet to sleep through the night because of it and on top of that I'm a very light sleeper, which really doesn't help. When I was younger, my little brother, Stevie used to sneak into my room in the morning to try and scare me awake (what an angel, right?). I always knew he was there though and, with my eyes closed, would greet him as he was halfway to my bed with a "Good morning, Steve." He hated this because it messed with his life goal of being the stereotypical pestering brother not unlike Shia Labeouf in the Family Channel Original Series, Even Stevens. (I love you, Stevie!)

Back to the trip. So far, I have befriended no less than six cats that have found me along our travels. This is important because it means that if I wanted to move to Kenya in the future, I wouldn't have to give up my life-long dream (aka the inevitable) of being a crazy cat lady.

You can see three photos of our trip so far at the end, but I'll tell you what they are now. One is from lunch on our first day in Nairobi, a picture of one of my many new cat besties (I named him George and he was the only one I loved enough to take a picture of), and the last one is of a coconut backdropped by the Indian Ocean. Because, where we were staying in Mombasa, if you wanted a coconut, all you had to do was go talk to one of the gardeners at the resort and they would climb a palm tree and get you one. What?? Yes.

I have no idea what's new in country music this week, but here are a few songs that are relatively recent and I was enjoying before I left. (All I've listened to since I left Vancouver is whatever was on my iPod that I last updated approximately three years ago. #throwbackfriday?)


The First: Crushin' It by Brad Paisley

This song reminds me of my friend Kali. Not because she is incapable of being a contributing member of society like Brad Paisley narrates himself to be in this song (because let me tell you, she's a rockstar who could probably build a spaceship, fly to Mars, find the life-sustaining water NASA's been searching for and save the earth if she wanted to - that's the kind of human being she is.) No. This song reminds me of Kali because she uses the term"crush/in' it" literally every day.


The Second: Painkiller by Little Big Town

This is a public service announcement that the LBT concert in Abbotsford is basically a month away and if you don't have tickets you should get some. I have no idea if there are any left because I haven't been listening to the radio this past week, but I'm sure you could manage a quick google search. This song is great.


The Third and Final: Hole in the Bottle by Canaan Smith

Have I ever introduced you to my friend Canaan? No? That's because I've been hiding him from you because I was being selfish. But I've decided that's no way to live so here you go. Enjoy your Friday!

Thanks for listening,
Karla

Leaving on a jet plane.

And by jet plane I really just mean a regular sized plane.

I'm currently on a plane to Nairobi, Kenya for a wedding reception (for these two) and I'm super excited! I'm also most likely sleeping, but past Karla (she seems really lovely) decided it would be nice for you to still enjoy CMF this week and, with the help of some internet magic, that dream has come true. What a world. The last time I left North America, I was five and my whole family was off to live in Chile for a year and a half. So, needless to say, it's been a while. I'm excited for all that I'm about to experience, the memories I'll make with dear friends, and hopefully the giraffes I'll see if we go to a park. I really love giraffes.

In celebration of this adventure, I thought a travel theme would only be appropriate for this week's CMF. So pack your bags.

The First: Run by George Strait

A classic! And one of my all time favourite songs. There are no graphics or lyrics or storyline accompanying the video I chose because it doesn't need it. Just listent to Mr. Strait's smooth twang and let him take you away (literally).


The Second: Greyhound by Ashley Clark

Does anyone else remember Ashley Angel from the MTV (maybe?) show "Making the Band"?? As an eleven year old, I was convinced that Ashley and I were made for one another and I thought it was super progressive of him to have the name Ashley. But mostly was really looking forward to the day we would meet and obviously fall in love immediately. Too bad there was a significant age gap, geographical gap, and now, I would argue, a significant number of other issues with that fantasy relationship. Thank goodness for age, geography, and life guiding me away from that plot ending.

Anyways, this is not the same Ashley, but he sings about distance and travel and needing to desperately get to his loved one, so it fits and it's fun.


The Third and Final: Anywhere With You by Jake Owen

I don't feature a lot of Jake Owen, but I do love this song and feel it has a place on CMF, so here we go. It is also on theme, so that's a bonus.

Also, our bestie from last week, Jon Pardi, has a kind of hilarious song that fits with this week's selection, although the "love" part of it takes a slightly different route (< punny). You may enjoy it here.

Finally, a big birthday shout out to my oldest sister, Claire, who celebrates her 31st tomorrow! Love you, lady.

Thanks for listening,
Karla

There are sadly no references to majestic animals this week.

But I do feature some Dallas Smith, which some may say is the same thing.

PS (Which in this case I've decided stands for pre-script, not post-script, since I haven't actually gotten into the thick of it yet): I love it when you all respond to CMF like so many of you did last week. It totally makes my day/weekend/life. Thanks! Your reward is that I won't bore you with a super long introduction and just get into the musak.


The First: Missin' You Crazy by Jon Pardi

This man is basically the epitome of southern twang, in my books. And I obviously love it. A song of his that I have been desperado wanting to feature for the last few months is called Over My Head and every week I check the YouTube hopeful it'll be available and it just doesn't seem to be a thing that's going to happen. But when I do search for it I am always reminded of how good Missin' You Crazy is, and so I figured I might as well share it with you. Also his hair is all fluffy in the video which is, fortunately/unfortunately, not how he styles it anymore. So you have that to enjoy. Having said that, I also encourage you to explore Over My Head on iTunes or Spotify or something because it's really great.


The Second: Move On by Clare Dunn

I like this song for two reasons:
1) The title makes you think it's about something totally different and then she gets all wordplay-y (< english) with the lyrics.
2) Clare seems like a lady not to be messed with and I appreciate that. She completely just owns the stage in this video. Like a Miranda Lambert apprentice.
3) Because I lied when I said I had only two reasons: basically this song is my anthem.


The Third and Final: A Girl Like You by Dallas Smith

Because it's been a reasonable amount of time since I've gushed over this man, so I thought why not today? Mostly I just wanted to make sure that you were reminded that Dallas Smith is still talented and wonderful. This song has been out for well over a year and I still love singing it - particularly the second verse. And by that I really just mean to instruct you to never interrupt me when I'm singing the second verse of this song because I will become unreasonably angry with you if that happens. You like the whiskey in me, I dig your classic thinnng...
If you know Dallas (not in the close personal way I do, of course) you will know that this is definitely not his current single, but you are welcome to check that out too, if you would like (the lyric video features stop motion... so...)


Thanks for listening!
Karla

Majestic horses and nightmares

Allow me to paint you a picture of my super relaxing Thursday evening (because yes, I write CMF on Thursdays. Scandal!): Tea. Sweatpants. Face mask. Popcorn (which I eat with a spoon, because I don't like it when my fingers get all popcorn-y). Hair is up in a bun that is actually just slowly sliding down the side of my head. Attractive? Thank you, I know. That's what I was going for.

The First: Used Up by Logan Mize

So this guy! I had heard State of Your Heart a few years ago, and Can't Get Away From A Good Time earlier this year (great workout song, let me tell you) but never really paid him much attention or ever featured those songs. But this week the YouTube Autoplay function wanted to do something about that, apparently, and led me to this song. It's a gem. As is basically all of his current EP, "Pawn Shop Guitar".
Now, can we please discuss his foolishness around 0:45 of this video?! A vehicle compactor seems like a very dangerous place to lean, even if it is supposedly turned off. I've clearly been scarred by all those work safety videos I was made to watch in grade 9. Did you have to watch these? The ones when someone would be slicing salami at a deli without the safety guard and lose their thumb? Or someone else would brilliantly decide to kick a log that was stuck in a wood chipper to unclog it and lose their leg? Or maybe someone was leaning on a vehicle compactor and got compacted?? BE CAREFUL, LOGAN! I wish for you to make more music and you can't do that if you continue to live your life so recklessly.
PS Does this video also remind anyone else of that horrifying scene from The Brave Little Toaster? That junkyard gave me nightmares for years. Years. (What I'm trying to say is that I still have Brave Little Toaster nightmares.)


The Second: Steal Me Away by Olivia Lane

Good tempo, mature voice, clever lyrics: "come in like a thief, I'll leave my heart unlocked and steal me away." The makings of a good song, if you ask me.


The Third and Final: Die A Happy Man by Thomas Rhett

Look at this guy slowing things down a little bit. I like it, Thomas. I'm a fan. Now, can you guess what I'm not a fan of? Yep, the video. Shocking. But I feel it is for legitimate reasons.
Exhibit A) There is a lyric in the song that goes, "I don't need no vacation, no fancy destination..." Mhmm... and yet this video is seemingly set in Hawaii/a similarly tropical destination. Interesting.
Exhibit B) Someone decided to ride majestic horses on the beach at sunset. So... who even knows how these choices are made but they are all very poor ones.
The song is great though. Real cute.

Enjoy your weekend! I'm technically already enjoying mine because I'm off today. Don't be jealous: the only difference between me and you is approximately eight hours and a pair of sweat pants. You'll get there.

Thanks for listening!
Karla

Mo' Titles, Mo' Problems.

This week has actually ended up being a really lovely one full of some much-needed down time and fully launching myself back into the regular routine of fall, my favourite season! And apparently I used none of that downtime to come up with a half decent title for this week's CMF. For that I am sorry. I struggle with titles, clearly. But! I did have time to do things like cook, read and exercise again, which has been just swell. So cheers to fall and all the great things it brings! (Right, David?)

The First: Sober Me Up by Frankie Ballard

I've listened to this one so much this week that I think I heard my phone audibly sigh when I hit repeat just now. Mostly I just feel that a lot of the songs we typically hear from Frankie are more upbeat and summery, and this one is a refreshing change for him. It also has a really lovely melody for you to sing along with. Because we all know that I've already done that approximately 53 times in the last 24 hours.


The Second: On Top of the World by Tim McGraw

I've gone from basically no Tim McGraw to double Tim McGraw. I call it making up for lost times.
When I first heard it, I really didn't think I would ever feature this song simply because I thought it was rather plain. But then the subliminal force of radio infiltrated my brain and here we are: I love this song.
Story time: I was picking up my friend Kanaiya a few weeks ago and had this song going with the windows down. The moment he got in my car he exclaimed, "why are you listening to rock music?!" Now, I haven't yet decided if this speaks more to Kanaiya's music sensibilities or Timmy's, but it still cracks me up. You're welcome for yet another riveting story from my car.


The Third and Final: 500 Miles by Haley & Michaels

Controversial, I know, but I quite like this cover! And it's about time we hear this song again, outside of weddings or spontaneous jam sessions or midnight viewings of Benny & Joon (so good). On a related note, I think the addition of a female's voice - especially one as beautiful as Haley's - really works for this cover. If you're interested in another beautiful (read: full of emotions and feelings-y stuff) song by these two, I suggest Giving It All (To You).
And just because someone is guaranteed to bring it up, I do know that 500 Miles is not the actual title of the original song, but that's what H&M (the artists, not the clothing store) are going with, so I've followed suit in this case.


As always, thanks for listening!
Karla

I love fall and I love coffee, but I am not a fan of the Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Welp. The first week of classes - and the inevitable growing pains (read: traffic and no longer empty parkades) that go along with a campus that's coming back to life after a quiet summer - is finally coming to an end. And now it's the weekend so let's celebrate! And by celebrate I of course mean sleep in until you're so hungry that you are forced to crawl out of bed and scavenge your kitchen for sustenance.

The First: Smoke Break by Carrie Underwood

Oh, Carrie. Bringing it home with another working class anthem. I actually quite like the storyline of this video, surprisingly. It's just a feel-good three-and-a-half minutes. Unlike her last single that made me feel the opposite of good. Also, this really lovely cover of Alan Jackson's Remember When just started playing and I liked it so much, I'm spontaneously sharing it with you now. I don't usually like the unplanned, but when it comes to country music, I allow it (apparently).


The Second: One Of Those Nights by Tim McGraw

Full disclosure: I selected this song purely out of frustration. I have a long list of songs I want to share with all of you but sadly they haven't made their way to the youtube yet so we all have to wait. And so I figured if we're going to wait, we might as well enjoy some not-so-new but still great songs that maybe we haven't heard in some time while we do so.
Things that make me happy in this video: Tim McGraw in a toque and puffer jacket, the label maker (because we know how much I love my own label maker), and just this song in general which I still turn the volume up for whenever it makes its way onto the radio.


The Third and Final: Trouble Is by Charlie Worsham

Charlie knows what it's like. You sing it, Charlie.

I hope you all enjoy your weekend of rest and relaxation and that lovely in-between weather when it's still sunny and warm but the colours of autumn begin to make some casual appearances, not unlike all of Taylor Swift's friends at her concerts. (What I'm trying to say is that those appearances are not casual at all. They strut the stage with a wind machine pointed directly at them. In the former's case, that wind is nature.)

Thanks for listening,
Karla

The boys are back in town.

After a few weeks of featuring more ladies of country than usual, the boys are back in town. Also that's just a good song and I wanted an excuse to listen to it while also encouraging/tricking others to do the same.

The First: Kinda Dig The Feeling by The Railers

I like this band purely on the seemingly odd makeup of it. Three guys and a lady, which normally wouldn't be odd, but considering said lady is usually on backup vocals and does some instrumentals is different and I find it wonderful. Also, you might assume by the graphics for this single (above) that the guy who's in the front wearing the denim button-up flowing in the wind is the male lead vocalist. But he's not, of course. Because The Railers like to switch things up with their vocal arrangements and their photo shoots. (Since I know you're wondering, the long-haired man in the tan pants who's least seen in this shot is on lead vocals...) Anyways, I like them. Also here's a live version because you know how much I love live music.


The Second: Broken Windshield View by Chris Lane

I'm saddened about not including this song a few weeks ago because that seems like kind of a missed opportunity. Live and learn, I suppose. Also I guess if I tried to cram all songs that talked about living in the country into one post, it would wind up being inappropriately long. Chris Lane really does make it sound like this is the only way to see the world though, doesn't he? Perhaps we should all give a broken windshield a try?
I'm kidding. Broken windshields are dangereux. Please get that fixed immediately.


The Third and Final: Better in Boots by Tyler Farr

This fine gentleman has been doing really well with his recent singles, and this new one is no exception. This song reminds me that I don't own cowboy boots and I am simultaneously ashamed and heartbroken by it but also just kind of okay with it (I don't want to be a cliche, you know?)

Thanks for listening and happy back-to-school!*
Karla


* I love new stationary.

There are still four more days left in August.

So let's make them all count, okay?

And what better way to do that than through song??


The First: Absolutely Nothing by Randy Houser

GET READY FOR A GOOD TIME. Because that's what Randy is all about with this one. He is basically just singing through a run-on sentence for every verse and I'm super into it.
It may not be your style, and I get that. Just like how Mountain Dew and Slim Jims are not my sort of thing, but I can appreciate that others might enjoy them. (< that would only have been a rando sentence for you if you didn't listen to the song.)


The Second: Honey Jack by Madeline Merlo

First off: she's not just Canadian, she's from Maple Ridge. So well done, local lady!

Secondly: I like the chill vibes of this song. Yes, that's right, I said vibes. Get over it.

She starts this song off by saying "slow and easy" and I really don't know how else to describe the mood of this one other than that.

Thirdly, a confession: I'm actually really not a fan of Jack Daniels Honey. For the record. Shhh. But I am a big fan of this song, so that's something at least.

Finally: If you like Madeline's voice then Sinking Like a Stone is another lovely one, should you be in need of a moodier song.

The Third and Final: Drunk by Courtney Cole

My thoughts on this song/video, in "order of appearance":
0:11 - Nope, don't care for this song. No real need to sing about your over-intoxication.
0:15 - Oh, you're not.
0:35 - Who is this girl? Is she intentionally over-acting?
1:03 - I changed my mind: can we be best friends?? (take me with you to Tim McGraw, please.)
1:22 - I want your shoes and somewhere to wear them. Maybe to the concert?
2:00 - Yep. Basically this is what it would be like if I were to ever star in a music video. I would just have a slightly less aggressive side part in my hair. Confetti could not be more on point though.

That's it for this week! This will be my last official free weekend of summer, so I plan to fill it with friends and brunch and music and I couldn't be more excited about it.

Thanks for listening!
Karla

I came across Halloween candy in the store yesterday.

That title doesn't really have anything to do with this week's selections, other than indicating that the wind down of summer is starting. That, and I felt it was extraordinarily important that you all know that you can get peanut butter cups en mass now.

But! While it's still summertime, let's all enjoy it with these three songs.

The First: Gentle On My Mind by The Band Perry

Song starts at 1:13 because I know that you care.
I don't know what I was doing when this song was first released, but clearly I was not paying attention (or maybe I just grew too bored of having to watch over a minute of music-less storyline in this video...). I've been a lover of TBP for many years, mostly because I think Kimberly Perry's voice is not something to be messed with and that I wish I had her self-confidence. Having said that, I really can't explain to you what in the world they are up to right now. (If anyone has any insight, please share).
Of course, I have to do my due diligence and give Glen Campbell credit for his song. And also share that I'm a big fan of this modern rendition of a classic. Big fan.
Sidenote: I'm happy with the one brother's decision to refresh his look and tie back that hair, even if it was just for this video.


The Second: Fire by Brett Eldredge

I like the gradual build up of the beat in this one. Also there's clapping, which as you'll remember last week, we've established I'm a big fan of. I don't really have that much else to say about this song other than I like the way he says "fire" ("fah-YA"). That, and having Brett Eldredge's face stare at you for three minutes and twenty-four seconds amongst CGI'd flames is kind of intense.


The Third and Final: Stop Drop + Roll by Dan and Shay

Before you even start with me, I know there should be a comma between "Stop" and "Drop" but that's not the way they do it. Don't you worry: I've already written them about their blatant avoidance of punctuation rules.
Something we can discuss, however, is how these boys really know how to sweep a girl off her feet through song. My goodness. If you require more examples, here. you. go. That should keep your ears occupied for a bit.

Hope you all have a great weekend! I'll be hanging out with my dad and a handful of my siblings.

Thanks for listening,
Karla

My Top Ten Songs of Summer 2015

It's August 19th.
I'm just going to go ahead and call it now. I hope you're all okay with that because, if not, it's kind of too late since you're already reading this. Besides, there's a bonus in doing this now, instead of sometime in September: you can actually enjoy the songs while the season is still upon us.

So here are my top ten Songs of Summer 2015.

I will preface with saying that yes, I know not all these songs were brand new this summer. That's not really the point. The point is they're just the ones I've just been listening to a little bit too much lately. So, in no particular order, here you go:


1. Until I Met You by Sundy Best

We all know how these boys changed my life. Is that an exaggeration? Probably not. They gave me a newfound faith in music videos potentially not being awful forever and also gave us this really adorable song.


2. Break Up With Him by Old Dominion

Don't even pretend to be surprised. I've gushed over these guys three separate times. We all know my love for them and their humour and their talent and their faces.


3. Gonna by Blake Shelton

Still love it every time it comes on.


4. Rodeo by Mackenzie Porter

I think I just like how straightforward she is. I also still think he is adorable at the end with the laundry.


5. Take Your Time by Sam Hunt

My friend's almost three-year-old, Lily, doesn't like this song because "he spends too much time talking." Unfortunately, I disagree with lil' Lily. I'm a fan of the slow jam rap (at least that's what I call it..)


6. Loving You Easy by Zac Brown Band

It would take me forever to link all my past love for ZBB. Y'all get it. They're wonderful. They're talented. And every one of their future singles will probably end up being a CMF feature. Some things in life are just predictable like that.


7. Stay A Little Longer by the Brothers Osborne

So what I actually wanted to link here, and have been waiting (im)patiently for for months, is the extended version of this song. JRFM plays it once in a while and it's just such a treat. If you can find it on iTunes or are lucky enough to catch it on the radio, please enjoy.


8. My Mistake by Cam

Her voice is just so beautiful and the harmonies in this one still make my heart happy.


9. Don't It by Billy Currington

I think I just love the way he sings "as far as I can tell that finger ain't got no ring on it" and then goes on to talk about karaoke for kind of no reason at all.


10. Crash and Burn by Thomas Rhett

I'm into the video almost as much as I'm into the song. I like the part when he's walking next to his car rolling in neutral. I like the look on his face when he's recreating a little 1989 Say Anything and she's throwing his stuff out the window. I even like his jacket. The only thing that I don't really like is this girl's overacting. It's really the only upsetting part of an otherwise lovely music video.

Thanks for listening,
Karla