2020 Grammy Predictions

As you likely know the 2020 Grammy nominations were announced yesterday, and instead of waiting until the day of to make my predictions, I've decided it'd be more fun to get them out of the way, forget about them and then surprise myself with my picks while I have a laugh at the eventual ceremony January 26th. Once again I'm going to do my usual shtick of making predictions for categories I know/care about, and again I'll be doing my 'who should win' and 'who will win' double pick scenario. Check out how I did last year, here, and check back here on the day of as I'll be updating with results.

***Update: Results noted with ✓ or X ***

BEST DANCE RECORDING

Bonobo - Linked
The Chemical Brothers - Got To Keep On
Meduza & The Goodboys - Piece Of Your Heart
Rüfüs Du Sol - Underwater
Skrillex & Boys Noize with Ty Dolla $ign - Midnight Hour

Who Will Win: Skrillex & Boys Noize X
Who Should Win: Rüfüs Du Sol X
Reasoning: Skrillex has never lost when he's been nominated in this category and while I don't think "Midnight Hour" should win, I think the academy will 'play it safe.' However, this one strikes me as the least likely winner of Skrillex's now four nominations. Lately the winners have been more towards the typical dance pop side of things so there's a real possibility of Skrillex being upset by "Piece Of Your Heart." With that in mind, you have to go back more than a decade for something like "Linked" or "Got To Keep On" as a winner, and if it were either of those two The Chemical Brothers strike me as far more likely. All of that said, I give "Underwater" a real shot, and find it the most deserving because of its enrapturing beauty, mystifying vocals and stunning sound design.

BEST DANCE/ELECTRONIC ALBUM

Apparat - LP5
The Chemical Brothers - No Geography
Flume - Hi This Is Flume (Mixtape)
Rüfüs Du Sol - Solace
Tycho - Weather

Who Will Win: The Chemical Brothers ✓
Who Should Win: The Chemical Brothers ✓
Reasoning: Much like last year, this is an incredibly tight category, and truthfully I wouldn't be surprised if any of the latter four took it home. Apparat's album is nice, but there were less than a handful of tracks that stood out to me. I will say the same for Flume's mixtape too as it's just not for me, however I can easily see the academy going his way once again. Having lost to Flume in 2017 with what in my eyes is a better album, I once again see Tycho coming up short. This leaves me torn between two undeniably excellent albums, both with singles in the category above. I've sided with the academy going to The Chemical Brothers based on name recognition and legacy, something they've done the last two years. I also feel they are the most deserving if only by a slim margin. That said Solace boasts a spectacular soundscape and beautiful breadth while remaining tight and true.

BEST REMIXED RECORDING

Madonna - I Rise (Tracy Young's Pride Intro Radio Remix)
Miley Cyrus - Mothers Daughter (Wuki Remix)
Jorja Smith - The One (High Contrast Remix)
Mild Minds - Swim (Ford. Remix)
Marie Davidson - Work It (Soulwax Remix)

Who Will Win: High Contrast X
Who Should Win: Soulwax X
Reasoning: What a category! For the first time in a while we've got five remixers making their first appearance. That's right, neither High Contrast nor Soulwax have ever been nominated! This only makes this already incredibly unpredictable category even more so. I feel like there's a good chance Tracy Young can capture the title, as Madonna is a name voters can latch on to and her remix is quite slick. I'm really happy for Wuki, but I'd be pretty surprised if he won as the academy has not gone for something quite so banging in years. The Ford. remix has a shot but I'd put it as the least likely, both because of name recognition and its fit in the academy's recent voting patterns. Those two criteria would lead me to believe High Contrast will take the title, while I would love to see Soulwax and Marie Davidson get some well deserved recognition.

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR, NON-CLASSICAL

Jack Antonoff
Dan Auerbach
John Hill
Finneas
Ricky Reed

Who Will Win: Finneas ✓
Who Should Win: Ricky Reed X
Reasoning: There's a not a single holdover from last year's category which is an oddity, but Auerbach, Hill and Reed each have been here before. It's pretty rare that a first time nominee takes this crown, but I see Finneas taking the title for his inextricable role in the success of Billie Eilish. However his relatively small catalog (for which he is nominated) has me worried about this pick and could easily see Auerbach taking the title. That said, it really ought to be Ricky Reed for his work with Lizzo, Maggie Rogers, Maren Morris and SZA among others.

***OTHER, MORE UNINFORMED PICKS***

Best Music Film: Beyonce ✓
Best Music Video: Gary Clark Jr. X
Best Comedy Album: Dave Chapelle ✓
Best Reggae Album: Koffee ✓
Best Rap Album: Tyler, The Creator ✓
Best Urban Contemporary Album: Lizzo ✓
Best Alternative Music Album: Vampire Weekend ✓
Best Pop Vocal Album: Billie Eilish ✓
Best Pop Duo/Group Performance: Lil Nas X & Billy Ray Cyrus ✓
Best New Artist: Lizzo X
Song Of The Year: Billie Eilish ✓
Album Of The Year: Lizzo X
Record Of The Year: Billie Eilish ✓

Childish Gambino - This Is America (omniboi Remix)

Coming just over a week after it was named both Record and Song of the Year at the Grammys, Childish Gambino's viral and critical success "This Is America" has once again received the remix treatment, this time from the awe-inspiring omniboi. Omni Rutledge is no stranger to taking on the hottest of hot hits, as he previously scored an indelibly divine remix in his jazzy flip of Migos "Bad And Boujee." More recently, the multi-talented musician rebuilt Charli XCX's "Focus" as a slice of chill lounge luxury, highlighting his brilliance with a video of his rebuild here.

Once again taking to Twitter to share his work, omniboi gave us our first glimpse at "This Is America" as an early Valentine's Day present, whetting our appetites here. Now in its full glory, the lush soundscape of the Soundcloud stream below is a head-spinning stunner. No, you know what, it's even better than that. It's an experience. The kind of track whose power can get you out of a rut, realign your perspective or renew your priorities. Like the original, it is gospel genius combined with brilliantly contrasting components. At this point, we can only hope to capture this uber cool creation with a download or purchase link, and I'll update if/when one becomes available. But for now enjoy the stream below.FOLLOW OMNIBOI: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

2019 Grammy Predictions

In breaking news, I've learned the Grammys are tonight. I kid, but basically that's what this whole post is going to be: a little levity to close out the weekend. I'm gonna do my usual shtick of making predictions for categories I know/care about, and again it'll be my 'who should win' and 'who will win' double pick scenario, because even with two picks per category I'm still out to lunch most times. Oh and one more thing before the predictions, will the dance/electronic categories be in with all the obscure categories? Or will they continue to disregard their impact and treat them as a sideshow not fit for their floundering broadcast? I'd lean towards the latter, but let's just get to the good stuff, shall we?

*** Update: Results noted with ✓ or x ***

BEST DANCE RECORDING

Above & Beyond - Northern Soul (ft. Richard Bedford)
Disclosure - Ultimatum (ft. Fatoumata Diawara)
Fisher - Losing It
Silk City - Electricity (ft. Dua Lipa)
Virtual Self - Ghost Voices

Who Will Win: Silk City ✓
Who Should Win: Silk City ✓
Reasoning: I feel like the Academy is equally likely to go with any of Disclosure, Silk City and Fisher as they are seemingly the most widely-popular productions in the list. My bet is that they will make the 'right' choice with Silk City as they love both Diplo and Mark Ronson, and it is indeed the most accessible and perhaps most successful production of the bunch. That said, I would not be surprised if "Losing It" got the nod, as love it or hate it, it was without a doubt the club track of the year.

BEST DANCE/ELECTRONIC ALBUM

Jon Hopkins - Singularity
Justice - Woman Worldwide
Sofi Tukker - Treehouse
SOPHIE - Oil Of Every Pearl's Un-Insides
TOKiMONSTA - Lune Rouge

Who Will Win: Justice ✓
Who Should Win: TOKiMONSTA
Reasoning: This was a tough one. Obviously any of these could take the trophy, but I feel like they'll be too scared to go with SOPHIE, who might be the obvious choice in many eyes. The other nom that set itself apart from the group in terms of hype was Singularity, and I think it's got a solid chance. However, due to last year's seemingly unfair Kraftwerk catalog/best of winning, I see them doing the same with Woman Worldwide this year. That said, I've got Lune Rouge as the most enjoyable album through and through.

BEST REMIXED RECORDING

LSD - Audio (CID Remix)
Charlie Puth - How Long (EDX's Dubai Skyline Remix)
Gabriel & Dresden ft. Sub Teal - Only Road (Cosmic Gate Remix)
Kygo ft. Justin Jesso - Stargazing (Kaskade Remix)
HAIM - Walking Away (Mura Masa Remix)

Who Will Win: EDX
Who Should Win: Mura Masa ✓
Reasoning: This marks the 5th time Kaskade has been nominated in this category since 2008, and his 4th time in 5 years. Surely this is his year right? But sadly for him, I think not. I put CID and EDX in a near dead heat, with the advantage going to EDX in the kind of dance delivery that seems to get recognized most at The Grammys. My choice is obvious though, as I love both HAIM and Mura Masa, and see "Walking Away" as by far the most adventurous and progressive production in the list.

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR, NON-CLASSICAL

Boi-1da
Larry Klein
Linda Perry
Kanye West
Pharrell Williams

Who Will Win: Kanye West
Who Should Win: Pharrell Williams ✓
Reasoning: I see the Academy going for drama with this pick, and while he's likely deserving after an incredible year, there's no doubt Kanye will have people talking. That said, I believe Pharrell's output is more wide-ranging and because of his contributions to Timberlake and Grande's albums, he ought to become just the 4th person to win this category 3+ times.

***OTHER, MORE UNINFORMED PICKS***

Best Music Video: Childish Gambino - This Is America ✓
Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media: Black Panther ✓
Best Spoken Word Album: Jimmy Carter ✓
Best Americana Album: Brandi Carlile ✓
Best American Roots Song: The Joke ✓
Best American Roots Performance: The Joke ✓
Best Rap Album: Mac Miller x
Best Rap Song: Sicko Mode x
Best Rap/Sung Performance: This Is America ✓
Best Rap Performance: Sicko Mode x
Best Alternative Music Album: Björk x
Song Of The Year: The Joke x
Album Of The Year: Janelle Monae x
Record Of The Year: All The Stars x

Extended List of Grammy Predictions

Just for fun I'm making an extended list of Grammy predictions/bets, to go with those I already did for the categories relevant to this blog (read here). In order to save time I'm only going to list the category and who I believe will win, and in some cases who I think should win. I will be skipping the categories I know nothing about or have no taste for. There's dozens of places to find the full list of nominees and eventual winners, and while nothing beats the official source I'm not a fan of their website and generally choose to use Wikipedia here. I'll be live tweeting here as I watch both the pre-ceremony telecast (streamed via www.grammy.com) and CBS broadcast late via PVR.

60th Grammy Awards (Write-ins & Predictions)

I'll never grow tired of this picture, or really any of Prince, but I submit this otherwise without comment.

When the Grammys released their list of nominees back in November, I did an off the cuff breakdown of the relevant categories here, and promised I'd return with my predictions and write-in nominations. Earlier this week in the typical uncontrollable brainstorm that happens just before falling asleep, I realized I better do that soon. Then, despite avoiding so much of the hype surrounding the record industry's self-congratulatory award show, I eventually became aware that "Music's biggest night" was in fact this weekend. So here I am jumping on that bandwagon, delivering some silly predictions and attempting to shine a light on some artists I feel deserve more praise than they are currently receiving. As usual I preface this whole endeavor by reminding you that this is done (like the awards themselves) simply for fun and to get people talking and sharing more music from their favourite artists.

60th Grammy Awards (Nominees)

The Grammys will celebrate their 60th anniversary this coming January in New York, and today they've released their list of nominees (full list here). Once again I debated whether a post was warranted, and since you're reading this I decided it in fact was (see my debate from last year). However this year I've decided to hold off on the predictions for now, and really just dig into the nominations themselves. Of course I'm not going to tackle all of the categories, just those I see pertinent to this blog.

Best Dance Recording

• Bambro Koyo Ganda - Bonobo ft. Innov Gnawa
• Cola - Camelphat & Elderbrook
• Andromeda - Gorillaz ft. DRAM
• Tonite - LCD Soundsystem
• Line Of Sight - Odesza ft. WYNNE & Mansionair

Firstly, I find it interesting that both Gorillaz and LCD Soundsytem's albums were nominated in the Alternative category, yet their tracks are classified as Dance. Let us however note that their is no Alternative Recording category. Also it might be pertinent that in 2003 this category fell under the Pop field before the creation of this Dance field. I feel this only further complicates Alternative productions being in a previously Pop field, but perhaps the Grammys feel that Dance is Alternative.

Regardless, both artists had big years, particularly in that they made massively anticipated returns, and therefore ought to warrant some kind of acknowledgement. I would however argue that neither of these are their best efforts. For my ears, "Submission" and "Other Voices" are the standout tracks from Humanz and American Dream, respectively.

Another artist who had a big year was Bonobo. His album Migration (also nominated below) garnered widespread support, and while I am more than fine with him receiving a nod here, I'd again suggest that this wasn't even the best track on the album. I'd submit "No Reason" as the zenith, but picking just one cut from Migration serves as a tough task, and I cannot be too critical here.

I'm glad the Grammys have nominated a house track, and I quite enjoy "Cola." I am however curious where more widespread and progressive (not in sub-genre, but in scope) house tunes are, see Tchami, Kolsch or Bicep. Regardless, Camelphat and Elderbrook have built an incredible track worthy of this honour.

Speaking of progressive, there aren't many as cutting edge as Odesza. While most would point to Flume and Rustie as originators of future bass, you'd be remiss not to include Odesza in that conversation. I would however argue that this particular brand of future bass, is quickly becoming stale and purely pop music. But this is the Grammys and it would be silly to expect them to be ahead of the curve.

Finally I wonder whether Dance is a cumbersome category name, isn't all music meant to make you move, and isn't moving to music dancing?

Best Dance/Electronic Album

• Migration - Bonobo
• 3-D The Catalogue - Kraftwerk
• Mura Masa - Mura Masa
• A Moment Apart - Odesza
• What Now - Sylvan Esso

You'll notice that both Bonobo and Odesza are holdovers from the Recording category, and as above both received widespread critical acclaim. While I was tough on "Line Of Sight" I feel the rest of Odesza's album makes up for the mainstream, pop feels of that particular track. Both Migration and A Moment Apart are strong albums, with incredible arcs, inciting waves of feels and emotions. Worthy nominees in my mind, especially in A Moment Apart, as I get some distinct Pink Floyd vibes.

While there's no questioning Kraftwerk's greatness, or legendary status, I find their album somewhat troublesome to include here. One it's live, two it's almost entirely made of their previous productions. This seems unfair, but it is what it is. Certainly not the first time the Grammys have thrown a wrench into this category. Regardless, it's an incredible piece of production, especially in the way it's mixed.

My love for Mura Masa and his album will not be new to readers of this blog, so it's no surprise I agree with its inclusion. It's the perfect mixture of forward thinking club music and pop production abilities. The vocal features are fantastic and the whole thing just grooves through and through. On the opposite end of the scale is Sylvan Esso, who I've not heard of until today. Not surprising though, cause as I say, this seems to happen every year in this category. I will say that after listening to What Now I can kind of understand why it would be nominated: it's an eclectic mix of all kinds of electronic. It is well done, and will certainly have me keeping my eyes/ears on them in the future.

Best Remixed Recording

• Loleatta Holloway - Can't Let You Go (Louie Vega Roots Mix)
• Bobby Rush - Funk O' De Funk (SMLE Remix)
• Kehlani - Undercover (Adventure Club Remix)
• The xx - A Violent Noise (Four Tet Remix)
• Depeche Mode - You Move (Latroit Remix)

The first time in three years that both RAC and Kaskade are not in this category, so it's good to see some fresh faces. It's also a great mix, there's old school electronic dance via Louie Vega and SMLE, a big time banger from Adventure Club, an epic piece of electronica courtesy Four Tet, and some dirty house from Latroit. I really like this category, although I do wonder about SMLE's inclusion, as I cannot find any instance (spotify, soundcloud, youtube etc) that shows it as having garnered much attention. I know it's not a popularity contest (and this has happened before, see Paul McCartney in last year's nominees), but you'd think with the number of worthy remixes out there, they'd be able to find one with both a wide reach and strong musical depth. While categories cannot be perfect, and I don't claim this one to be, I feel this is the best we could expect, and perhaps the best since 2013.

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That's it for me for now, I'll be back with a predictions post, with my usual write in nominees later.

2017's Inaugural Electronic Music Awards (Preview)

I've written about the Grammys and Junos before, focusing on their electronic categories, but always lament the lack of coverage they get, as both opt to announce those winners on their side shows. I've since wondered whether we should care about these award shows at all, since they so often leave a bad taste in our mouths (fans and artists alike). Everyone one knows about the DJ Mag Top 100 lists and the controversies they entail, particularly the so called "DJ" list that in the end is a popularity contest among producers, not DJs. Perhaps as a protest, two new award shows have arisen: The Goldie Awards (backed by A-Trak and THUMP, focusing on DJ and Beat Battles) and The Electronic Music Awards (backed by Paul Oakenfold and TV4, showcasing all that is electronic music). For the purposes of this post, I'll focus on the latter as the anticipation grows in the 3 weeks prior to the event.

Originally announced in January of 2016, as the Electronic Music Awards and Foundation Show, and set for broadcast on FOX, this seemed as large and legitimate as anyone could possibly hope. However in the following months the event was postponed for more than a year, renamed and relegated to a Twitter broadcast. The previously 7 categories have grown to 11, and the winners will be announced live September 21st starting at 7:47 PM PDT. So now let's take a look at those categories and their nominees. Note that I won't be making predictions today, but merely digging into the categories and nominations themselves. See the image below or find the direct link to the noms here.

As you can plainly see, the list of names here is absolutely packed with powerhouse producers, deserving DJs, and awesome artists. The organizers have done a good job of separating categories from Producer of the Year to DJ of the Year, and Live Act of the Year. However I wonder about the New Artist of the Year category, as arguably every act has been big since early 2016, if not before then. But since this is the first edition, I'll give them a little leeway in what new means.

Looking through this list it's clear that the same people who would argue that award shows are mainstream, could easily make that argument again here. There are no names that I'm unfamiliar with. It's absolutely jam packed with big names, but at least to their credit those big names come from all over the place. It's not just top 40 radio wannabes or techno titans. There's deep house, hip hop, electro and of course, what continues to be the style of the moment, future bass.

As always I wonder about how these names were chosen, and further how the winners will be decided. The official statement is that "nominees and winners are voted on by sixty-seven members who were selected to represent all aspects of the electronic music community, in a two-round voting process." But who selected these members? And how well are they balanced? Now, I don't mean to claim that there's collusion or foul play, I just always advocate for more transparency. And no matter what people will bitch and moan about this or that. The positive (and value of any award show) is to showcase worthy talent. Sure you can claim that some of these artists need no more showcasing, but their impact is undeniable, and ought to be recognized as such. Now back to those categories.

2017 Juno Nominees

It's that time of year again, and the Junos (Canada's Music Awards) have released their list of nominees. As per usual I'll break down the categories relevant to this blog: Dance Recording of the Year and Electronic Album of the Year. As a reminder last years winners were: Keys N Krates for "Save Me" with Katy B, and Pomo for The Other Day. Now to this years nominees...

Note: As with my Grammys post (here) I'll give my two cents, write-in a nominee, and place bets on who should win from those nominations and who will actually win, but as usual, I'm probably wrong.

• Adventure Club - Limitless (ft. Delaney Jane)
• Bit Funk - Off The Ground (ft. Shae Jacobs)
• Jacques Greene - You Can't Deny
• Shaun Frank - Let You Get Away (ft. Ashe)
• Zeds Dead - Northern Lights

At first glance this is a formidable and worthy list of nominees, but upon closer inspection one of these is not like the others. Zeds Dead Northern Lights is not a track, it's an album, and that's not what this category is. It's meant to be a single recording. Ironically this isn't the first time the Junos have made a mistake with this category. Just last year they nominated Kaytranada's "At All" only to eventually discover that it was released outside the eligibility period.

I wondered if this was perhaps just a typo on this image, but after checking their website (here) it confirms the mistaken nomination. All of this isn't to say Zeds Dead are not deserving of a nomination, as tracks like "Too Young," "Stardust" or "Blame" could easily fill that spot. But enough of the Junos' error and onto the four obvious inclusions.

It's hard to believe that Delaney Jane is just getting her first Juno nod, since she seems to be on just about every chart topper in the past two plus years. But I guess it's fitting that she breaks through with "Limitless" as that's just what her career trajectory is. I'm so excited that both Bit Funk and Jacques Greene are on this shortlist, as I've been a fan of both for quite sometime. While Bit Funk's track is more typical of popular dance music at the movement, with its bouncy deep house vibes, Jacques Greene's is atypical, making it a genius return to the scene after months of silence. The heart palpitations I get whenever I hear "You Can't Deny" is what makes this my pick for winner. Last but not least, is Shaun Frank's latest in a long list of hits "Let You Get Away." This may be the most obvious nod, as Frank has quickly become one of the most trusted and widely respected producers in the world, crafting not just his own bangers, but working with The Chainsmokers among others. Whether it be "Let You Get Away," "La La Land" or "Heaven" you had to know Shaun Frank was going to make this list.

Who Should Win: Jacques Greene

Who Will Win: Shaun Frank

My Write-In Nomination: Pusher - Clear (ft. Mothica)

• A Tribe Called Red - We Are The Halluci Nation
• Bob Moses - Days Gone By
• Harrison - Checkpoint Titanium
• Holy Fuck - Congrats
• Kaytranada - 99.9%

Between the obvious cultural importance and undeniable quality of A Tribe Called Red's album, this was a lock to be included. The long list of collaborators only further propel the trio's unique sound and style into an unparalleled piece of art. As Joseph Boyden says in "Before," "You guys got pull, you do. People listen to you, you know they do." We Are The Halluci Nation certainly puts A Tribe Called Red on the forefront. Bob Moses, who are also nominated for Breakthrough Group of the Year, absolutely stormed onto the stage. Days Gone By received a slew of scary good remixes, but none of that would've been possible without their thoughtfully crafted original productions. As soon as I heard Harrison's Checkpoint Titanium I was blown away, even though it's nothing like his early chiptune tracks that I first fell for. It's a cohesive collection of thought-provoking productions, with an awesome set of collaborators, from Ryan Hemsworth to Clairmont The Second and Allie. Holy Fuck's triumphant return Congrats, their first release since 2010, is everything you've come to love about their furious style, only more omni-directional. It shows off their production prowess and contrasting wild/refined sides. Then of course comes the heavyweight of the category, Kaytranda's criticcally renowned album 99.9%. Already taking home the coveted Polaris Music Prize, it has to be the favourite to win, and deservingly so, it truly is an awe inspiring work of art.

Who Should Win: Kaytranada

Who Will Win: A Tribe Called Red

My Write-In Nomination: Zeds Dead - Northern Lights

The Junos take place April 1st and 2nd in Ottawa at the Canadian Tire Centre, watch them on CTV.

2017 Grammy Nominations

Every year, when The Grammy nominations come out, I debate whether a post about them is worth my time, or whether I'll just be promoting the garbage pop that does not need, nor deserve, any more promotion. I eventually come to the conclusion that there are enough deserving artists nominated to warrant a post. So here I go, I'll list the nominees from each category relevant to this blog, give my two cents, then write in my own nomination. I'll also place my bets on who should win from those nominations, and who I think will actually win, but I'm almost always wrong, cause you know, I'm obviously not on the same level as those in charge of the Grammys. See last year's predictions post.

Song Of The Year

• Beyonce - Formation
• Adele - Hello
• Mike Posner - I Took A Pill In Ibiza
• Justin Bieber - Love Yourself
• Lukas Graham - 7 Years

Why is "I Took A Pill In Ibiza" on this list? Isn't it too old to be included? I definitely remember Benzi playing it in his Get Right Radio 2015 mix. Anyway, it'd be hard to argue with any of these tracks being nominated for this category. Must say I'm not sure I've ever heard "7 Years," but there's always at least one track per category that I'm clueless about.

Who Should Win: Formation

Who Will Win: Hello

My Write In Nomination: Flume - Never Be Like You

Best New Artist

• Anderson .Paak
• Chance The Rapper
• Maren Morris
• The Chainsmokers
• Kelsea Ballerini

What constitutes a new artist? While I'm not sure who Morris or Ballerini are, the other three have been on my radar for at least at least two years. This is a group of heavy hitters, and perhaps one of the best/most deserving list of nominees, despite my disdain for anything Chainsmokers. But that's why this is the Grammys, and that's why I write a blog about underappreciated art, not pop refuse.

Who Should Win: Anderson .Paak

Who Will Win: The Chainsmokers

My Write In Nomination: Flume

Best Pop Duo/Group Performance

• The Chainsmokers - Closer (ft. Halsey)
• Lukas Graham - 7 Years
• Rihanna - Work (ft. Drake)
• Sia - Cheap Thrills (ft. Sean Paul)
• Twenty One Pilots - Stressed Out

Best? This is really the best? Or most poppy... How about we call a spade a spade? I've never heard a track more widely hated than "Closer" and "Work," what's with all the mumbling? I can at least stomach, and understand its appeal. No question Sia had a massive year, and I like Sean Paul so I get that.

Who Should Win: Cheap Thrills

Who Will Win: Closer

My Write In Nomination: Flume - Never Be Like You

Best Dance Recording

• Bob Moses - Tearing Me Up
• The Chainsmokers - Don't Let Me Down (ft. Daya)
• Flume - Never Be Like You (ft. Kai)
• Riton - Rinse & Repeat (ft. Kah-Lo)
• Sofi Tukker - Drinkee

Okay, we're really starting to get into the good stuff here. I've got huge love for Bob Moses, and their nomination is perhaps the best thing the Grammys did with this years nomination. Again, with the Chainsmokers though, yet another track that I just don't get; it's rather awful, but not as bad as "Closer." Here's where I'll also address the reasoning behind Flume being my write in for each of the previous categories. I feel Flume is perfectly suited for music award shows, specifically the Grammys. His productions are poppy and easily accessible, yet far from mindless drivel. His near clean sweep of the ARIA Music Awards were well deserved, as Skin is a true work of art. Rounding out the category I'm blown away by the last two nominees, for different reasons. I absolutely love "Rinse & Repeat," but had never heard Drinkee until today.
Who Should Win: Rinse & Repeat
Who Will Win: Never Be Like You
My Write In Nomination: Pusher - Clear (ft. Mothica)

Best Dance/Electronic Album

• Flume - Skin
• Jean-Michel Jarre - Electronica 1: The Time Machine
• Tycho - Epoch
• Underworld - Barbara Barbara, We Face A Shining Future
• Louie Vega - Louie Vega Starring... XXVIII

Why is this category dance/electronic while the above is only dance? The Grammys usually do a good job with the album category, and this year is no exception. That is to say there's usually one odd ball, and it certainly seems to be Louie Vega. There's no questioning Flume's inclusion here, nor the triumphant return of Jean-Michel Jarre and Underworld, but it seems like the Grammys are leaning a little bit too hard on prior accomplishments and name recognition. Apart from the inclusion of Bob Moses above, Tycho's appearance in this category is the Grammys greatest success.

Who Should Win: Tycho

Who Will Win: Flume

My Write In Nomination: Machinedrum - Human Energy

Best Remixed Recording

• Soul Pacific - Cali Coast (Psionics Remix)
• The Silver Lake Chorus - Heavy Star Movin' (staRo Remix)
• Paul McCartney & Wings - Nineteen Hundred Eighty-Five (Timo Maas & James Teej Remix)
• Ry X - Only (Kaskade x Lipless Remix)
• Bob Moses - Tearing Me Up (RAC Remix)
• The Chemical Brothers - Wide Open (Joe Goddard Remix)

This category is almost always way out there. Sometimes it's full of popular mixes and other times it's like this, littered with mixes and artists I've never heard of. Once again we see the Grammys going for name recognition, with the obligatory inclusion of Kaskade and RAC. The Paul McCartney track is really weird, seems like voters just went "Oh that guy was from The Beatles, he can do not wrong," WRONG! The Psionics remix has 159 views on soundcloud, seriously. SERIOUSLY, what is up with this category? At least Bob Moses, Chemical Brothers and Joe Goddard got nods, but I'm basically at a loss for this one.

Who Should Win: Joe Goddard

Who Will Win: RAC

My Write In Nomination: Manila Killa - All That's Left (The M Machine Remix)

Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical

• Benny Blanco
• Greg Kurstin
• Max Martin
• Nineteen85
• Ricky Reed

This is always a funny category for me, because it's always a bunch of names basically nobody knows, with the exception of Diplo, who for some reason was not nominated this year, despite being a perennial contender. So now, I'll give a little backstory for each unknown. Blanco's credits this year include "Love Yourself," "Cold Water" among various productions for Vance Joy, Selena Gomez and Passion Pit. Kurstin was responsible for many Adele, Sia, Ellie Goulding, and Tegan & Sara tracks, including "Hello" and "Cheap Thrills." Max Martin may even be more prolific than Kurstin, authoring tracks from Starboy, and Dangerous Woman, as well as the likes of "Can't Feel My Face," "Hands To Myself," "Love Me Like You Do," "Into You" and "Can't Stop The Feeling!" Nineteen85 is best known for his work with Drake, producing "One Dance," "Hotline Bling," and DJ Khaled's "For Free" with of course, Drake. Ricky Reed's credits include productions for Meghan Trainor, Robin Thicke and Twenty One Pilots.

Who Should Win: Max Martin

Who Will Win: Greg Kurstin

My Write In Nomination: Shaun Frank

Winners will be announced February 12th on CBS, but most of these categories will be announced earlier in the day with little to no fanfare, because as is likely obvious by now, The Grammys still have disdain for electronic music and clearly do not consider it that highly. But the question then is, do electronic music fans even care about the Grammys? And therefore does it matter what they do?

2016 Grammy Nominations Revealed, Does Anyone Care?

The Grammys are fighting to retain some kind of relevance and I'm not sure they're succeeding. How long ago was it that Homer Simpson gave away his Grammy? Do people even care? What's the point?

The joke, that is the Grammys, continues to flounder and beg the question what are the criteria for these awards? Apparently, the rules call for voting based on quality alone, and not be influenced by sales, chart performance, personal friendships, regional preferences or company loyalty. Quality alone. Hmm, that's not very clear, what kind of quality? Whatever quality they are talking about, they have spoken with their latest list of nominees. There are the usual suspects and there are the usual seemingly random unknown nominees (see Al Walser's 2013 nomination). Below you'll find my take on the four categories relevant to this blog; Best Dance Recording, Best Dance/Electronic Album, Best Remixed Recording (Non-Classical), and Best Producer (Non-Classical).

2013 Grammy Awards (How Did I Do?)

So I really didn't do to poorly considering most of my picks were intended to rock the boat/advocate the devil. I really felt that with some of the picks I was picking the least likely and contrary artist/record. Skrillex came up huge again, as I predicted. I was wrong about the remix, although Skrillex/Nero were my second choice, and probably the most likely choice, whereas Photek was a dark horse, no doubt. I still can't believe that Diplo was robbed and didn't get Producer of the Year, it really seems to be as though he is far more deserving than Dan Auerbach, but I guess the Recording Academy felt electronic production is not worth yet, but boy are they wrong. Jimmy Fallon won the Comedy album which seems reasonable, but it puts me at zero for three, but this however is where is start to turn it around. My picks of Skrillex bringing down the house with Bangarang the album and the track, were right on with him taking them both down, 2/5. I did however get beaten down on the last few and more 'important' picks. Poor Frank Ocean got spanked by Fun as the Best New Artist and Mumford & Sons for Album Of The Year. How Fun beat out Ed Sheeran and Carly Rae for Song Of The Year, I honestly cannot say. It really was a terrible performance by Fun except for the rain indoors, but I mean could you pump the cheesiness factor any higher? Meanwhile Ed and the original legend-wait-for-it-dary, Sir Elton John smashed the place with an unbelievable duet of A-Team. Far more deserving than Fun. I did however guess the Record Of The Year correctly with Gotye, I don't think it really could have been anyone else, and the justification is seen quite easily with Prince declaring "Oh, I love this song." And how fitting that their first thank you goes to Prince, someone who had so greatly influenced them and their music. All in all a fun night, a celebration of music, something that I do everyday, every moment I spend listening to music. Music is the magic of everyday life.  Overall score: 3/9. Gotta thank Skrillex for hooking me with two correct picks.

2013 Grammy Awards

As promised I've come up with a few categories that are pertinent to EFYE that I feel comfortable enough with that I could talk a little about them as well as make picks for winners. Below will be links to videos; in bold, the chosen winner, and a brief explanation. Obviously these are my picks and opinions, by no means are these necessarily the thoughts of anyone else.

Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical

• In My Mind (Axwell Remix)
• Typical loopy vocal-ridden SHM style track, great for those who desire a simple, undemanding listening experience. Too standardized/cookie cutter/top 40 techNO for my liking.
• Lie Down In Darkness (Photek Remix)
• My pick for winner in this category. Amazingly haunting and deep soundscape created with the dissonant vocals, all while able to keep up a moving rhythm. Still have yet to find a situation where it might be inappropriate to have this song playing. This black-horse is emotive and expressive, great work from master Moby and intellect from Photek. He was nominated last year and I think this is his year.
• Midnight City (Eric Prydz Private Remix)
• Fun remix of an already excellent song from M83. Prydz converts this into a top of the line techno track, with all the bells and whistles generally associated with Prydz's productions. Because it stuck so closely to the already popular original, I had to reserve some respect.
• Promises (Skrillex & Nero Remix)
• One of the biggest songs in recent memory, from Nero with the original (and better version) appearing on their Welcome Reality album which got snubbed from the Best Dance/Electronica Album category. Great vocals, standard Skrillex additions, this remix leaves the original to be desired.
• The Veldt (Tommy Trash Remix)
• A show of respect towards Deadmau5 for being nominated, rightfully so for TT as he's had a big year. This track though, really? I really cannot justify this one as being picked. The only value is the name TT but from his remix/production standpoint, its far below standard. This and the first remix really exemplify the Name/Popularity/Business element of these award shows. Thus the most respect to those underdogs, namely the pick of Photek to win.

Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical

Brief note about this category: Although I don't know about really any of these producers, save Diplo, I feel this one might be the closest to a cake walk of any categories tonight, although clearly I could be wrong. I think deservedly Diplo ought to win this one, his role in so many different genres and levels of popularity, including Top 40, should speak for themselves, not to mention the sheer quantity. Diplo FTW.

• Dan Auerbach
• The Black Keys, Dr, John, Hacienda
• Jeff Bhasker
• Fun
• Diplo
• Usher, Major Lazer, Snoop Lion, Marina & The Diamonds, Santigold, No Doubt, Wale, Justin Beiber, Alex Clare
• Markus Dravs
• Mumford & Sons, Coldplay
• Salaam Remi
• Anthony Hamilton, Amy Winehouse, Alicia Keys, Nicki Minaj, Miguel, Nas, Usher

Best Comedy Album

Again, I don't know and haven't heard all of these but I'm willing to suggest the ones I know as quality and take a guess at which one might come out on top.

• Blow Your Pants Off - Jimmy Fallon
• I'd wager this is really funny, I really like the two Jimmys on late night probably Fallon is a more pure comedian, but it's tough to say. Worth checking out for sure.
• Cho Dependent - Margaret Cho
• Sticking with both not knowing but also the Late Night shows I saw Margaret on Craig Ferguson and was pleasantly surprised, she was quite funny and very quick on her feet, so to speak, I'd be interested to check this one out.
• In God We Rust - Lewis Black
• Lewis Black could make this his third Grammy if he wins, though I don't believe he will. Although his satirical black comedy rants that take him through the gambit of emotions and levels of sanity may have proven to be funny in the past, I think its about time he slowed down.
• Kathy Griffin: Seaman 1st Class - Kathy Griffin
• Not really my style of humour, never truly found her funny. Far too over the top and one of the most annoying voices to ever hear, aside from Chad Kroeger of course (the most offensive, physically revolting voice known to the human race).
• Jim Gaffigan: Mr. Universe - Jim Gaffigan
• So funny! Just an amazing achievement. I totally love the stories and seemless segues. Jim's understanding of logic is so entirely appealing, much like that of George on Seinfeld. His voices, faces and physical performance are spot on throughout. Not worth missing.
• Rize Of The Fenix - Tenacious D
• Another one I haven't heard although I'd certainly be interested in is this third studio album from Tenacious D. My only concern with this is that these types of albums are very much so hit or miss. Without having heard this I cannot put anyone above Jim Gaffigan.

Best Dance/Electronica Album

• Wonderland - Steve Aoki
• Good effort for his first studio album, although one would have expected him to have done at least one prior. That being said it still underwhelms with only three, four at most, good tracks on the album. Again one would expect more from the veteran presence that is Steve Aoki founder of Dim Mak Records.
• Don't Think - The Chemical Brothers
• This live album/concert DVD features a lot of the amazing past of Chemical Brothers, a group around even before Steve Aoki. The tracks featured beat Aoki, Deadmau5 and Kaskade hands down. The only question is will the results favour new content over foundational older content, rerecorded? My thoughts are no, although in this category I think the past will have the most weight in terms of precedent.
• > Album Title Goes Here < - Deadmau5
• Enough with the non-title titles already. I'm really getting sick of this guy and his productions. Perhaps he's deserving of a nomination but there's no way a win could be validated or justified. Honestly cannot say that I like any of the tracks on this album, although I'm withholding judgment for Channel 42, specifically Nom De Strip's forthcoming remix.
• Fire & Ice - Kaskade
• I'm really at odds here with the nominations in this category. I can understand that Kaskade, Deadmau5 and Aoki are deserving on a mere name basis, but from a musical standpoint I'm thoroughly disappointed with the albums; even with The Chemical Brothers its essentially a show of respect to their foundational nature. Again on this album I can't say that I'm a fan of any of the tracks.
• Bangarang - Skrillex
• Of the seven tracks I like five and really like four. This is an amazing achievement, and truly cements Skrillex as one of the most important actors in the electronic dance music scene. His work with The Doors is an unparalleled achievement that has allowed for multiple great remixes and ecstasy worldwide. Not only does he mix the dubstep and electro perfectly he also worked Summit with Ellie Goulding into a masterpiece. Kudos to you Sonny, on another great year.

Best Dance Recording

• Levels - Avicii
• Clearly an important track but I cannot in good conscience say this one is deserving of an award of this prestige. I cannot get past the Top 40 atmosphere this track is soaked in.
• Let's Go - Calvin Harris feat Ne-Yo
• Makes me physically ill to think that this would get nominated and to see Calvin Harris nominated for two Grammys. Regardless I don't really see this one winning, but if you really want to listen to it the link is above.
• Bangarang - Skrillex
• I'm picking Skrillex to take home a few tonight, not necessarily because he is the best at everything but because this is his year, with the album and the track. I certainly have more respect for Sonny than I do for Adam Wiles and Tim Bergling combined. Despite Bangarang being on the outside of my favs for the album I cannot see anyone else taking it from him.
• Don't Worry Child - SHM feat John Martin
• I know many people hold this song in high esteem, and I do see the value in the lyrics but honestly how can these guys possibly be popular. It really says something about the vast majority of music consumers and their braindead listening habits. SHM is terrible, has been terrible and will forever be surrounded in a shroud of true defecation.
• I Can't Live Without You - Al Walser
• Who is Al Walser? That's right I'd never heard of him till now. Listening to the track, I experience distorted vocals, in the style of hip-hip/rap/r&b decent production skills but it sounds like I'm listening to a Much Dance CD from 2006 or 2007. It's got a bit of a rock guitar feel but I really don't see much value in this track, certainly compared to Skrilly.

As for the other big titular categories I'd take Frank Ocean for a big night winning both Best New Artist and Channel Orange taking Album Of The Year, Ed Sheeran's A-Team to take Song Of The Year, with Gotye rounding out the Record Of The Year Category with Somebody That I Used To Know.

Anyway I hope you've enjoyed my little Grammy preview and opinion piece please feel free to let me know how bad a job I did and how unbelievably wrong I am, as Pat Benatar said "Hit Me With Your Best Shot"

Oggie Out