By Aaron Levy (CIVL Station Manager) – Email
Print Edition: January 28, 2015
Though The Cascade was snubbed at the annual Canadian University Press’ Johnny Awards two weeks ago, they’re still winners in my heart, with their two nominations. Here are some songs related to losing.
Three Doors Down
“Loser”
I liked this song way more than “Superman” when it came out. Slower, broodier, ploddier, and even catchier if you ask me. Sure, it wasn’t the prime trailer song for an American Pie-style tweenaged comedy, but it made me feel like much more of a winner in high school.
Matthew Good Band
“Flashdance II”
He never recorded a “Flashdance I”, though I’m led to believe such a song does exist from other artists. This song, the centrepiece of MGB’s 2000 EP Loser Anthems, is all about a stripper who Matt supposedly loves, April Springs. But apparently her mother had originally “called her Judy.”
Beck
“Loser”
Likely the most popular and well-regarded song of this title, Beck reconstructed himself anew with this lead track from the breakout album, Mellow Gold. Before “Where It’s At,” “Devil’s Haircut,” and “The New Pollution,” Beck stopped being a country guy with one of the biggest of ‘90s songs, “Loser.”
Sloan
“Losing California”
I may have shuffled this in previous editions. A decent revisitation of the California surf sound the Beach Boys and co. perfected, only to be brought back with bands like the Thrills, Everclear on So Much for the Afterglow, and Weezer’s Green. Ain’t no “Lines You Amend,” but it works.
Austra
“Lose It”
Toronto indie-new wave darlings Austra, featuring solo chanteuse Katie Stelmanis, never were or will be my favourite. They are, however, a must-know in terms of scene bands that made a splash and got a lot of recognition for a decently original album, perhaps incredibly well-deserved. Backtrack much?
