KyleParkinson.com

It’s hard to quite articulate my reaction to the death of Michael Jackson. More than I had previously realized it, the man’s music infiltrated a great deal of my life in a great way. Whether or not you like the art or the artist, it’s hard to deny that he was perhaps the best entertainer of the past few decades. And I’ll throw down with anyone to defend “Billie Jean” as the best pop song ever written. The incredible dancing above only takes it to yet another stratosphere. Rest in peace, Michael.

Johnny Depp wears the same sunglasses as me. We made it to the cover of Vanity Fair! I’m so proud today.

Bonus joke: A dog walks into a bar, and the bartender says, “Woof woof woof face?”

The Avalanches are clearing samples, according to their MySpace. This is the best news since August 3, 1983.

I’ve started working for a music styling company called Groove Gurus. We specialize in supplying and customizing music playlists and live DJs for businesses (restaurants, hotels, stores), events, and individuals. I’m excited about it, so if you have any ideas you’d like to talk about, I’d love to chat.

Hey y’all. Feeling generous? I know I am. I want to give until I can’t see straight anymore. Fortunately, there’s a great opportunity to do so. The 2009 New York Nativity May Benefit will take place at the Tribeca Rooftop on Wednesday, May 6th. My sister, Courtney, has been part of the planning committee, and it sounds like they’ve got a great night planned. Please check out the Web site and donate, buy a raffle ticket, or buy an event ticket if you’re able to make it. All proceeds go toward helping students at  Brooklyn Jesuit Prep, the Nativity Mission Center, and the St. Ignatius School. Head over to the event Web site for more information.

There are so many buzz bands these days, it’s hard to give proper credence where it is due. And this spring has been ridiculously flooded with great new music. It’s a good problem to have. And then I walk out my door on a beautiful sunny morning after hearing Harlem Shakes on the John in the Morning show, and things just fall into place. The debut album, Technicolor Health, from the Brooklyn indie outfit is really damn good, especially in this weather. Case in point: my new favorite song, “Strictly Game,” which literally just gave me goosebumps for four straight minutes.

MP3: Harlem Shakes - Strictly Game

I was fairly anxious as to how St. Vincent’s sophomore album would stand up to the near-perfect debut from two years ago. What me worry? I never should. The new album is unbelievably good. Annie Clark does not disappoint with her combination of melodic strings and hard guitars, not to mention beautiful lyrics sung in a beautiful voice. It is a fantastic album from beginning to end. I don’t know what else to say. Take a listen to the album’s first two tracks. And then get your tickets for her upcoming tour. Can’t wait for the Webster Hall show.

MP3: St. Vincent - The Stranger

MP3: St. Vincent - Save Me From What I Want

According to Calvin Harris, I’m not alone, but according to the number of times I spend reading my own blog, I’m pretty damn close. Luckily, I can listen to a lot of good music in that time, and lately (i.e. today) it has been Deadmau5’s remix of Calvin Harris’s “I’m Not Alone.” It’s a little housier than most tracks I post, but it is pretty perfect. Disfruta.

MP3: Calvin Harris - I’m Not Alone (Deadmau5 Remix)

A couple weeks ago, I was spinning records with my friend when he closed out the set with a track I instantly loved. Then yesterday John in the Morning played the same song, and I’ve been listening on repeat ever since. The song: “Animal” by Miike Snow.  It’s the perfect combination of pop, some indie sensibilities, and a damn good beat. And don’t forget about the remixes. My favorite so far is the Treasure Fingers remix. Check them both out below, and dance a little bit.

MP3: Miike Snow - Animal

MP3: Miike Snow - Animal (Treasure Fingers Remix)