The Klipsch Community

Music Monday: John Prine

Amy Unger — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 20:11:00 GMT

Somewhere between country, folk, and sittin-on-the-back-porch-strumming-a-geee-tar lies John Prine. The dude has been around forever, and he rarely disappoints with his honesty, irreverence and humorous take on living a simple American life.

There's several to choose from, but my favorite album by far is 1991s The Missing Years. I think I have a few of those. Missing years, that is.

If you haven't heard him, check out this live performance of You've Got Gold. It's not for everyone, but if it's for you, you'll fall in love.

I've got a new way of walking and a new way of talking
Honey when I'm around you,
But it gives me the blues when I've got some good news
And you're not there to bring it to.

Dreamsicle Orange

Amy Unger — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:15:00 GMT

This is what I've been listening to in my bedroom for the past week.... the new KMC 3 in a lovely shade of orange. While it doesn't match my decor in any way whatsoever, I absolutely love the color. Every time I look at it, I think back to when I was a kid, running amuck outside, pedaling big wheels, playing tag, climbing trees...and sneaking into the garage freezer to snag an orange popsicle every couple of hours. It was my sustenance every summer, all summer.

Funny, we never seemed to run out. They either multiplied magically, or my mom was just that good. I wish I was so on top of the important things in life.

By the way, useless Amy-Blog fact #256: National Creamsicle Day is August 14th. Fire up those garage freezers.

Music Monday: The Airborne Toxic Event

Amy Unger — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:19:00 GMT

Hard to believe two years has flown by since I first wrote about these guys, when I was addicted to Sometime Around Midnight. I just heard this morning they will be at the Vogue in Indianapolis on Friday -- and oh, how I want to go. But not to the Vogue. I love the historic venue, but it's too small and "young" for this oldster. I don't have the patience to wait in line and stand smooshed in a crowded bar anymore. Not that I ever really did.

I'll keep holding out until they finally (and deservedly) make it huge and headline at the Klipsch Music Center. That I can get into.

In the meantime, enjoy this amazing live performance of All I Ever Wanted.

Actually, enjoy the entire album Live From Walt Disney Concert Hall. It's simply fabulous.

You tell me that you're scared that you're turning into your mother.
I feel myself turn into my father.
We could lie to each other like they do, and say we're so happy.
It's easy when you're young and you still want it so badly.

Music Monday on a Tuesday: Roy Orbison

Amy Unger — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 14:18:00 GMT

As another unique voice from a bygone era -- hauntingly emotional in pitch, melody and lyrics -- no one could make me weep quite like Roy Orbison. His tragedy-filled life oozed out of every note. I can't tell you how many times I listened to Crying as a drama-seeking teenager. Woe is my life.

Although I no longer seek him out to self-induce depression, I do still listen to him from time to time just to appreciate the awesomeness that was Roy.

If you haven't seen the unbelievably creepy David Lynch film Blue Velvet, you should. For the unauthorized use of In Dreams alone.

A candy-colored clown they call the sandman
Tiptoes to my room every night
Just to sprinkle stardust and to whisper:
"Go to sleep, everything is alright"

Weekend Music: Daft Train

Amy Unger — Fri, 31 May 2013 13:07:00 GMT

I used to love to dance. Not ballroom or square dancing, but the kind where you get all dressed up just to hit the floor and ruin your make-up and hair. The best kind. And nothing is better for it than funk. I love Mumford & Sons, but you just can't dance to them. I mean, really.

Of course, I was too late for the 70s funk era... my clubbing-days soundtrack was more like Baby Got Back and Groove is in the Heart, but I would've loved to have been part of that era. When dancing was real. Raw. Not this acrobatic nonsense that only highly trained athletic types can do. Fun to watch, lousy to imitate.

But these guys make me feel like I could jump in, foolish as I'd look. But that's what it's all about - acting a fool. I excel at that.

And I love how even though Daft Punk's Get Lucky is new, it fits right in.

Funk on.

Like the legend of the Phoenix
All ends with beginnings
What keeps the planet spinning
The force from the beginning

Sound Check

Amy Unger — Tue, 28 May 2013 17:33:00 GMT

I went out to Klipsch Music Center on Friday to snap some photos of pro gear. Best part: I could feel my clothing move as I was standing in front of the subwoofers. And there was no wind.

Because of Them

Amy Unger — Fri, 24 May 2013 15:49:00 GMT

As you tune into the NBA playoffs, catch the Indy 500 on Sunday, cookout with your family and friends, or just relax on your day off, be sure to remember why we have the freedom to enjoy our leisurely activities on a long weekend.

Shiny Objects

Amy Unger — Wed, 22 May 2013 13:53:00 GMT

While the Palladium speakers have the ultimate beauty and the Heritage speakers have the ultimate live sound, the Reference line will always be my favorite of our high-end offerings. Must be the copper cones.

Engineering Marvel

Amy Unger — Tue, 21 May 2013 15:24:00 GMT

I love when a plan comes together. But sometimes, it's funnier when it doesn't. #DesignFail

Music Monday: Lana Del Rey

Amy Unger — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:05:00 GMT

Part lounge singer, part story teller, Lana Del Rey has carved out a unique niche for herself in the music world. Her songs are melancholy, nostalgic, and smoky. Harkening the bygone days of old Hollywood, when I listen to her, I can easily imagine being in a convertible on the west coast highway, flanked by the ocean and palm trees.

I love musical transportation.

You make me crazy, you make me wild
Just like a baby, spin me 'round like a child
Your skin so golden brown
Be young, be dope, be proud
Like an American.

Technology vs Nature

Amy Unger — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:09:00 GMT

It may be counter-productive to FaceTime while on a nature hike, but since my friend here was having a Wifi crisis, I saw it more as multi-tasking to assist someone in need. I was courteous enough to use my X10i headset for minimal nature-sound interference to others. I'm polite sometimes.

Music Monday (on a Wednesday): AWOLNATION

Amy Unger — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:10:00 GMT

I have two things to say about AWOLNATION in general. 1) What's with the all-caps? I feel like they are constantly shouting at me. But maybe that's their goal. 2) I thought their only song was SAIL! (which I also like to put in all caps. With an exclamation point.). And I thought SAIL! was the only lyric in the entire song (or sometimes it's "FAIL!", like when Steven or I drop something, and we shout out that modified lyric at random). I was wrong on both counts.

The band played last weekend at Klipsch Music Center, so I took it upon myself to give them further consideration. I try to be open-minded like that. Turns out I like their stuff. Who knew?

Kill Your Heroes is my favorite. It's upbeat with dark lyrics. Basically, it doesn't mess around.

Well the sun one day will leave us all behind
Unexplainable sightings in the sky
Well I hate to be the one to ruin the night
Right before your, right before your eyes

Slugger

Amy Unger — Fri, 10 May 2013 13:56:00 GMT

It's that time of year again. Spring brings rain, flowers, grass, allergies, and little league. At least that's how I'll always think of it.

Here's my little Giant, figuratively and literally, getting ready to knock this one in the outfield (spot the ball!). If I can just get him to focus on school as much...

Happy Mom's Day weekend to all the moms who endure endless baseball seasons, ballet lessons, parent-teacher conferences, and everything in between.

Green, Green Grass of Home

Amy Unger — Thu, 09 May 2013 14:33:00 GMT

Let's just pause to enjoy this moment... Another long winter behind us.

And for those of you born after, say, 1970, you can absorb some excellent throw-back culture here.

You could own the Klipsch chopper.

Amy Unger — Wed, 08 May 2013 18:22:00 GMT

The Klipsch OCC chopper is heading off to the auction block today. More info here... proceeds go to Make-a-Wish foundation! And thanks, MP, for the stunning display of your many years of training at the School of Motorcyle Modeling. Which I'm sure there is such a thing.

Blue Perfection

Amy Unger — Tue, 07 May 2013 15:16:00 GMT

We've been having a lot of discussions lately on what colors to offer for a few headphone and wireless speaker models. I found this in my backyard over the weekend, and if I had my way -- this is the color. I'm mesmerized.

Music Monday: Neko Case

Amy Unger — Mon, 06 May 2013 13:06:00 GMT

Neko Case has been around while, cultivating a unique "country noir" sound I find dark and appealing. Plus she's a mere 13 days older than me, automatically making her cool. "Hold On, Hold On" was featured in an episode of "The Killing," which I also find dark and appealing, and how I discovered her at last.

Side note: I think they call that show "The Killing" for two reasons.... first, the obvious; second, because it was killing me to sit through two seasons of a show trying to solve one murder. But it is SO GOOD.

In the end I was the mean girl
Or somebody's in-between girl
Now it's the devil I love
And that's as funny as real love

Pagoda

Amy Unger — Fri, 03 May 2013 14:39:00 GMT

May kind of sneaks up on you, doesn't it? In a good way. We'll be doing a lot out at the track this year, so racing fans and Klipsch fans alike, stay tuned! Lots of fun giveaways and cool photos gallore. In the meantime...enjoy your weekend!

A Warm Welcome

Amy Unger — Thu, 02 May 2013 17:00:00 GMT

As I descended the escalator at the Indianapolis airport last Saturday, I was greeted by the image below of Roy Hibbert's impressive wingspan. We literally just sent them this graphic, so it being up so quickly was a great surprise. Just in time for the playoffs.

If your favorite team didn't make it this year, be sure to root for the Pacers and participate in the #UnleashRoy contest. It's been great fun so far!

It's Hot Here Too

Amy Unger — Wed, 01 May 2013 18:02:00 GMT

But wait a day or so. We'll get frost again.

In the meantime, great day for some Peppers.

It's the edge of the world, and all of western civilization.
The sun may rise in the East, at least it's settled in a final location.
It's understood that Hollywood sells Californication.

Reboot, Reload, Renew

Amy Unger — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:30:00 GMT

There's not much anxiety a few days seaside can't calm. No wonder people who live by the ocean are so laid back. Dude.

And look, there's me.

Music Monday: George Jones

Amy Unger — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:52:00 GMT

Well dudes, I've returned. I only say "dudes" because the California sun has infiltrated my mushy winter-laden Hoosier brain. I'll stop soon, I just need a few more overcast days.

Traveling has a tendency to zap my will to watch the news -- when I leave, I really leave. So I was surprised to read today about the passing of George Jones last Friday. While he had his share of personal struggles, I have to give the man props for his longevity in the industry. Not many can survive it for 50+ years. And what a great voice.

This is a favorite. Twang on, George.

I'm goin back to Cali.

Amy Unger — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:37:00 GMT

I'm leaving on a jet plane for the west coast today for a yearly conference. While conferences don't particularly excite me, the thought of staying on the Pacific certainly does. Looking forward to the fresh air. Back on Monday!

Hey, I just did two song references in one short blog. I rock.

Track and Field Trip

Amy Unger — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 19:38:00 GMT

I got to hang out at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway this afternoon with these two characters for a headphone photoshoot. Courteous, funny, and down-to-earth, I'm proud to work with them as spokesmen who truly love our brand.

Overheard on the ride back to work: "It's really difficult to food-color a squirrel."

Best of luck in May to both Graham Rahal and Josef Newgarden. Too bad there can't be two winners.

Music Monday: Man Like That

Amy Unger — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:39:00 GMT

I'm sure you've heard this one in the 007/Heineken commerical that ran a million times this winter, but I never really paid attention to the song itself until recently. Gin Wigmore caught my attention when I saw an interview with her on VH1...spunky, funny gal (who says "gal" anymore? Oh, I do!), with loads of personality and a unique voice. Kind of like Janice Joplin meets Amy Winehouse...but with a sense of humor.

Check out the entire album, Gravel and Wine. Love it. And let's hear it for girl power:

I don't really wanna wake you
I just came to get my things
But the pretty lil' thing lying there beside you
Better take off my wedding ring