Desert Island Discs

When faced with the prospect of a sandy and solitary existence, music is of couse the chief concern. So along with the sandals and sunscreen, I've just gotta have my tunes.

* Violent Femmes, Violent Femmes: I first bought this album in cassette tape form, and I played it so much, I wore the writing off of it. After all these years, it's still that good. But I can't for the life of me remember what eight was for.

* Spiritualized, Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating In Space: A perfect substitute for all the substances you can't abuse when away from civilization. And because all I really want is a little bit of love to take the pain away.

* Radiohead, OK Computer: So much has been said already--need I say more? It's so damn good. Oh, and if I could tote a VCR along with me, then I'd have to request the rad animated videos that go with this album as well.

* Pulp, Different Class: The Constitution of my island would have to allow freedom of religion. And seeing as how this album is my Bible--and Jarvis is my God--how could I possibly leave it behind?

* Pulp, This Is Hardcore: One Pulp album is never enough. And assuming there are no men on this island to keep me entertained, you gotta let me bring some hardcore.

* Blur, Parklife: Haven't you figured it out yet? I love Brit-pop. So sue me.

* Matthew Sweet, Girlfriend: Well, if I am "alone in the world" it seems pretty appropriate to bring this sadder-than-thou masterpiece. Matthew, I think I love you too.

* Nine Inch Nails, The Downward Spiral: Psychological studies have shown that after spending a lot of time alone, people start to go a little crazy. So this one is for when I just need to scream. Real loud. Over and over.

* Pavement, Brighten The Corners & Shady Lane: A friend of mine has a huge crush on Steven. I just like "Stereo." And I need the EP too--even if that's technically cheating--if for no other reason than because "No Tan Lines" is just so apropos.

* The Beatles, The White Album: Nothing beats the original. Except maybe Pulp.... Although, if the Beatles are even bigger than Jesus, and Jarvis Cocker is God...hmmmmm. Sure to provide years of religious confusion.

* J.S. Bach: Cello Suiten: Okay, so maybe I try to put up this rock star front, but after a long day of spelling out "Help, I forgot to bring Yo La Tengo" in cocnut shells in the sand, nothing engages the mind and relaxes the soul like some rich-as-chocolate, soft-as-velvet cellos playing a little Bach.

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