The year after I graduated college, I was living in Cleveland and working as a technical writer - and later marketing manager - for two engineering companies owned by the same person. It was a good job - ideal for someone transitioning from the carefree irresponsibility of her college years to the humdrum accountability of the working world. I spent every day sitting at my desk writing and listening to music. And I spent almost every lunch break at an independent record store down the street buying more music to listen to during the day. On one of those lunch breaks, I stumbled across an album by a band named Spiritualized entitled, "Ladies and Gentlemen We are Floating in Space." It intrigued me so I bought it on the spot. It turned out to be one of my favorite albums because of its epic quality. There would be really soft moments followed by explosions of sound. I favor albums that take me on a journey and "Ladies and Gentlemen" does just that - it's raw, it's emotional, and it's beautiful. I was fortunate enough to see Spiritualized live two years ago at the Pitchfork Music Festival (see above photo) and I know it won't be the last time. In ten days they're performing the entire album live at Radio City Music Hall with the accompaniment of an orchestra and choir. NYC, I am SO jealous! Hopefully they'll bring that performance to other cities (fingers crossed for Chicago), but until then, I'll watch the below video on repeat.
