Heartless and Talentless? (a little)

Guitars and John Mayer

Franz Ferdinand

During ACL, I realized that I actually know a fair amount of songs from Franz Ferdinand. This was made even better by jamming with my brother at ACL; I don't get too see him all too much since he's in college now and it seems like we've gotten somewhat disconnected throughout his college experience. Regardless, while the band is somewhat repetitive, the music is still catchy and their guitarists are excellent.

Instrumental Solos

I'll keep this brief but I have somewhat of a negative disposition against instrumental solos. I'll be honest, I think they're cool if they're used appropriately but I feel like a lot of poor to mediocre bands have a tendency to get drunk on them. Like most things, instrumental solos are good in moderation but when it lasts... and then last some more... it becomes too much. It's like candy for kids on Halloween. What started as an enjoyable experience devouring candy by the pile turns into a hurling congregation that serves to disgust everybody. The only real difference is that the kids, at least most kids, hopefully kids (right?), learn from their experience. It seems like these bands don't. If you just want to play your instrument, alright. If it fits into the scheme of things and isn't overused, doesn't dominate the scene, ok. But if it does I don't enjoy it personally, no way.