I’m Fascinated By Your Rhythm

Portobella “Vive La Difference” – Much like “Some Girls” and “Heartbeats,” this song occupies the the middle distance between the arena and the dancefloor, combining a solid groove and an anthemic chorus so irresistable that it nearly overloads your pleasure centers. There have been a lot of bands that have attempted to pull off a song like this, but I think that Portobella absolutely nails it. Though this does not officially come out until 2005, this is definitely one of my favorite songs of the year. (Click here to visit the official Portobella site.)

Stephen Malkmus “Malediction (live in Buenos Aires, 10/23/2004)” – As another Malkmus album cycle begins, Fluxblog shall inevitably become a part-time Jicks fansite. I can’t help it. This selection is taken from SM’s recent solo (ie, no Jicks) show in Buenos Aires where he debuted a few new Jicks songs in addition to playing at least one song from every LP he’s ever made. (Westing doesn’t count, it’s a compilation.) “Malediction” is apparently a lock for the forthcoming album, and that’s a good thing. Like the best latter-day Malkmus material, it has a gentle, relaxed melody and surprisingly straightforward lyrics. I’m not entirely clear whether this song is being addressed to himself or another person, but either way, there’s some good advice in these lyrics. Maybe this is going to be his “motivational speaker” album.