Add Date: February 23
Artist: Quasi
Album: American Gong
Label: Kill Rock Stars
Genre: Indie Rock
Comments: This album is pretty heartbreaking. Quasi's been tooling around Portland since the early 90s as a project for people involved in probably more famous bands (Sleater Kinney, Stephen Malkmus), but it's always been a reliable little band for serviceable indie rock. So, enter this, their first real album since 2006, and my mind is blown. Suddenly, they're rocking harder than ever before!
Then the second song ends and it's mostly filler from here on out. Granted, not terrible filler, but they're firmly in the generic indie pop territory for the most part. It starts to pick up again near the end with the completely ridiculous "Rockabilly Party," and the psych rock out of "Now What," but at that point you're so worn out from hearing whispery voices and guitar noodling that you just can't really care anymore.
In summary, this would have been so much better as a four-track promotional or something. Sniff, sub.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Six Gallery
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Six Gallery
Album: Breakthroughs In Modern Art
Label: Self-released
Genre: Post-Rock/Math Rock
Comments: I'll be honest, I usually have trouble differentiating bands from the same field that Six Gallery comes from. You know the type: guitar virtuoso, surrealistic rhythms, and so on. I'm not going to claim that Six Gallery has someone REVOLUTIONIZED this field. But good lord, for a band that previously only released some entirely instrumental LPs, this is pretty fantastic stuff. The band avoids showing off (too much, this is strong post rock, after all), and for a band used to instrumentals only, the blending of the guitars and vocals is really impressive. Another music review site made a comparison of Minus the Bear and Incubus, and that's pretty close to the truth. Definitely a band to look out for.
Artist: Six Gallery
Album: Breakthroughs In Modern Art
Label: Self-released
Genre: Post-Rock/Math Rock
Comments: I'll be honest, I usually have trouble differentiating bands from the same field that Six Gallery comes from. You know the type: guitar virtuoso, surrealistic rhythms, and so on. I'm not going to claim that Six Gallery has someone REVOLUTIONIZED this field. But good lord, for a band that previously only released some entirely instrumental LPs, this is pretty fantastic stuff. The band avoids showing off (too much, this is strong post rock, after all), and for a band used to instrumentals only, the blending of the guitars and vocals is really impressive. Another music review site made a comparison of Minus the Bear and Incubus, and that's pretty close to the truth. Definitely a band to look out for.
Local Natives
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Local Natives
Album: Gorilla Manor
Label: French Kiss
Genre: Indie Pop/Rock
Comments: The best way to describe this band is if a mad scientist was all TIME TO CREATE THE PERFECT INDIE BAND, then ritualistically murdered people like Vampire Weekend, Arcade Fire, Grizzly Bear, and imparted the gibs into some sort of devil mixing machine. Local Natives would have come out this machine. I'm pretty unsurprised that this group is already getting shitloads of press and buzz, as they basically bring the trends in indie music to some sort of perfect conclusion. There's no where else to go, guys. Put down your doofy guitar, young teenager, you aren't going to top this group.
If you're a fan at all of the (NOW DEAD) bands I mentioned above, you're probably going to love the hell out of this. And while I generally roll my eyes at this sort of thing, I won't deny that the mixture of exquisite vocal harmonies with fairly rocking (by indie standards) guitar work was pretty damn good. Still, there's the feeling we've seen this all before, and Local Natives is simply polishing the same ground covered by other bands. All the same, this is a pretty mindblowing debut album, and it will be interesting to see what they can do for their next trick.
Artist: Local Natives
Album: Gorilla Manor
Label: French Kiss
Genre: Indie Pop/Rock
Comments: The best way to describe this band is if a mad scientist was all TIME TO CREATE THE PERFECT INDIE BAND, then ritualistically murdered people like Vampire Weekend, Arcade Fire, Grizzly Bear, and imparted the gibs into some sort of devil mixing machine. Local Natives would have come out this machine. I'm pretty unsurprised that this group is already getting shitloads of press and buzz, as they basically bring the trends in indie music to some sort of perfect conclusion. There's no where else to go, guys. Put down your doofy guitar, young teenager, you aren't going to top this group.
If you're a fan at all of the (NOW DEAD) bands I mentioned above, you're probably going to love the hell out of this. And while I generally roll my eyes at this sort of thing, I won't deny that the mixture of exquisite vocal harmonies with fairly rocking (by indie standards) guitar work was pretty damn good. Still, there's the feeling we've seen this all before, and Local Natives is simply polishing the same ground covered by other bands. All the same, this is a pretty mindblowing debut album, and it will be interesting to see what they can do for their next trick.
The Ruby Suns
Add Date: February 23
Artist: The Ruby Suns
Album: Fight Softly
Label: Sub Pop
Genre: Pop/Electropop
Comments: Fight Softly is the second release for the Ruby Suns, known as "New Zealand's pop masters." The album is full of electronic manipulations, steady beats, some reverb and distortion, and almost-dreamy vocals, highlighting synthesizers and water sounds. Apparently a different direction than their first album (and criticized by some reviewers as a little too Animal Collective influenced), Fight Softly is certainly heavy on the electronic side of music, but the music is creative, melodic and enjoyable. Start with tracks 4, 7, 9.
Artist: The Ruby Suns
Album: Fight Softly
Label: Sub Pop
Genre: Pop/Electropop
Comments: Fight Softly is the second release for the Ruby Suns, known as "New Zealand's pop masters." The album is full of electronic manipulations, steady beats, some reverb and distortion, and almost-dreamy vocals, highlighting synthesizers and water sounds. Apparently a different direction than their first album (and criticized by some reviewers as a little too Animal Collective influenced), Fight Softly is certainly heavy on the electronic side of music, but the music is creative, melodic and enjoyable. Start with tracks 4, 7, 9.
Johnny Cash
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Johnny Cash
Album: American VI: Ain't No Grave
Label: Lost Highway
Genre: Country
Comments: The last in the Rick Rubin produced American series, Johnny Cash's American VI: Ain't No Grave is another wonderful record from the sadly departed legend. The traditional song "Ain't No Grave" takes an interesting route with Cash's sparse rendition, and his original song "I Corinthians 15:55" is a beautiful track with well-placed violin. Cash's voice is still strong, and the album has plenty of emotional threads weaving through the songs, without being depressing. It's a fitting final album, showcasing Cash's immense talent, and his resigned yet peaceful spiritual state at the end of his days. Start with any track, but definitely check out the title track and "I Corinthians 15:55."
Artist: Johnny Cash
Album: American VI: Ain't No Grave
Label: Lost Highway
Genre: Country
Comments: The last in the Rick Rubin produced American series, Johnny Cash's American VI: Ain't No Grave is another wonderful record from the sadly departed legend. The traditional song "Ain't No Grave" takes an interesting route with Cash's sparse rendition, and his original song "I Corinthians 15:55" is a beautiful track with well-placed violin. Cash's voice is still strong, and the album has plenty of emotional threads weaving through the songs, without being depressing. It's a fitting final album, showcasing Cash's immense talent, and his resigned yet peaceful spiritual state at the end of his days. Start with any track, but definitely check out the title track and "I Corinthians 15:55."
Rocky Votolato
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Rocky Votolato
Album: True Devotion
Label: Barsuk
Genre: Acoustic
Comments: Rocky Votolato's record True Devotion is an acoustic album showcasing the talents of the singer-songwriter. With lyrics ranging from tracks about Votolato's own near suicide, to those about searching for enlightenment, the focus of the record is certainly on Votolato's stories, sung in his slightly gravelly voice, and highlighted by his guitar. Unlike some punk-turned-acoustic artists, Votolato is less angry and more earnest. Start with tracks 1 and 5.
Artist: Rocky Votolato
Album: True Devotion
Label: Barsuk
Genre: Acoustic
Comments: Rocky Votolato's record True Devotion is an acoustic album showcasing the talents of the singer-songwriter. With lyrics ranging from tracks about Votolato's own near suicide, to those about searching for enlightenment, the focus of the record is certainly on Votolato's stories, sung in his slightly gravelly voice, and highlighted by his guitar. Unlike some punk-turned-acoustic artists, Votolato is less angry and more earnest. Start with tracks 1 and 5.
Joey Ryan and The Inks
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Joey Ryan and the Inks
Album: Well, Here We Are Then
Label: Self-released
Genre: Pop-rock
Comments: Catchy hooks and melodic vocals combine with poppy-style rock on Joey Ryan and the Inks' album Well, Here We Are Then. Called a "sumptuous slice of retro-pop", the album is a bit twee and doo-wop, a generally feel-good, slightly retro experience (and the vocal harmonies are stellar). Start with tracks 2, 7, and 10.
Artist: Joey Ryan and the Inks
Album: Well, Here We Are Then
Label: Self-released
Genre: Pop-rock
Comments: Catchy hooks and melodic vocals combine with poppy-style rock on Joey Ryan and the Inks' album Well, Here We Are Then. Called a "sumptuous slice of retro-pop", the album is a bit twee and doo-wop, a generally feel-good, slightly retro experience (and the vocal harmonies are stellar). Start with tracks 2, 7, and 10.
The Black Belles
Add Date: January 23
Artist: The Black Belles
Album: What Can I Do?/Lies (single)
Label: Third Man
Genre: Rock
Comments: Produced by Jack White, Nashville girl-group the Black Belles' two-song single "What Can I Do?/Lies" is distorted rock done right. The two songs are catchy and sound like a good fit for White's Third Man Records: the sound is a bit of garage rock backed up by solid and steady beats. If the full release keeps this sound going, it should be a promising release. Try either track.
Artist: The Black Belles
Album: What Can I Do?/Lies (single)
Label: Third Man
Genre: Rock
Comments: Produced by Jack White, Nashville girl-group the Black Belles' two-song single "What Can I Do?/Lies" is distorted rock done right. The two songs are catchy and sound like a good fit for White's Third Man Records: the sound is a bit of garage rock backed up by solid and steady beats. If the full release keeps this sound going, it should be a promising release. Try either track.
Alkaline Trio
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Alkaline Trio
Album: This Addiction
Label: Heart & Skull/Epitaph
Genre: Rock
Comments: Alkaline Trio have been around for ages (since 1996) and have produced a whole slew of slightly gloomy punk-leaning-on-pop records (my favorite being Good Mourning, a staple of my middle school years). Their sound, which is a pretty straightforward heavy blend of almost-melodic guitar, bass and drums, is on this record closer to their earlier days: guitarist/vocalist Matt Skiba says, "This record is a rock record but our punk rock upbringing definitely shines through, more so than our last few records. "Skiba's unique vocals are a welcome staple, and overall the record is a nice throwback; start with tracks 1, 5 and 11.
Artist: Alkaline Trio
Album: This Addiction
Label: Heart & Skull/Epitaph
Genre: Rock
Comments: Alkaline Trio have been around for ages (since 1996) and have produced a whole slew of slightly gloomy punk-leaning-on-pop records (my favorite being Good Mourning, a staple of my middle school years). Their sound, which is a pretty straightforward heavy blend of almost-melodic guitar, bass and drums, is on this record closer to their earlier days: guitarist/vocalist Matt Skiba says, "This record is a rock record but our punk rock upbringing definitely shines through, more so than our last few records. "Skiba's unique vocals are a welcome staple, and overall the record is a nice throwback; start with tracks 1, 5 and 11.
Carolina Chocolate Drops
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Carolina Chocolate Drops
Album: Genuine Negro Jig
Label: Nonesuch
Genre: Country, bluegrass/old-time, blues
Comments: The title of the Carolina Chocolate Drops' Nonesuch debut is both misleading and perfectly appropriate. Misleading, as the songs on Genuine Negro Jig come from all over: from traditional country and bluegrass to Blu Cantrell to Tom Waits; appropriate, because this African-American trio is out to dispel the notion that this style of music is exclusive to one ethnicity and one geographical region of the South. As band member Rhiannon Giddens told NPR: "it seems that two things get left out of the history books. One, that there was string band music in the (North Carolina) Piedmont, period... [and that] black folk were such a huge part of that string tradition."
Giddens plays the five-string banjo on the record, but she steals the show by absolutely slaying Cantrell's 2001 smash "Hit 'Em Up Style," which appears here as a '40s-style swing jam. Over the rest of the record, the band fuses bluegrass and old-time, traditional blues, and classic country. Check out the traditionals "Trouble in Your Mind" and "Sandy Boys," get more of Giddens' splendid voice on "Why Don't You Do Right?," and don't miss Justin Robinson's original "Kissin' and Cussin'."
Artist: Carolina Chocolate Drops
Album: Genuine Negro Jig
Label: Nonesuch
Genre: Country, bluegrass/old-time, blues
Comments: The title of the Carolina Chocolate Drops' Nonesuch debut is both misleading and perfectly appropriate. Misleading, as the songs on Genuine Negro Jig come from all over: from traditional country and bluegrass to Blu Cantrell to Tom Waits; appropriate, because this African-American trio is out to dispel the notion that this style of music is exclusive to one ethnicity and one geographical region of the South. As band member Rhiannon Giddens told NPR: "it seems that two things get left out of the history books. One, that there was string band music in the (North Carolina) Piedmont, period... [and that] black folk were such a huge part of that string tradition."
Giddens plays the five-string banjo on the record, but she steals the show by absolutely slaying Cantrell's 2001 smash "Hit 'Em Up Style," which appears here as a '40s-style swing jam. Over the rest of the record, the band fuses bluegrass and old-time, traditional blues, and classic country. Check out the traditionals "Trouble in Your Mind" and "Sandy Boys," get more of Giddens' splendid voice on "Why Don't You Do Right?," and don't miss Justin Robinson's original "Kissin' and Cussin'."
Twin Tigers
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Twin Tigers
Album: Gray Waves
Label: Old Flame
Genre: Rock, shoegaze pop
Comments: The Athens band Twin Tigers make rock music that's clearly influenced by '80s and '90s psychedelic rock and shoegaze, but don't be hasty in lumping them in with other My Bloody Valentine or Jesus & Mary Chain impersonators. In the end, Gray Waves is considerably more diverse than that--check out "Everyday," which brings to mind The Strokes, or the Brit rock-leaning "Sexless Love"--and the moments that veer heavily into the JAMC end are very well done: the first two tracks, "Passive Idol" and "Red Fox Run," are terrific, no matter how liberally they may borrow from their genre's predecessors.
Artist: Twin Tigers
Album: Gray Waves
Label: Old Flame
Genre: Rock, shoegaze pop
Comments: The Athens band Twin Tigers make rock music that's clearly influenced by '80s and '90s psychedelic rock and shoegaze, but don't be hasty in lumping them in with other My Bloody Valentine or Jesus & Mary Chain impersonators. In the end, Gray Waves is considerably more diverse than that--check out "Everyday," which brings to mind The Strokes, or the Brit rock-leaning "Sexless Love"--and the moments that veer heavily into the JAMC end are very well done: the first two tracks, "Passive Idol" and "Red Fox Run," are terrific, no matter how liberally they may borrow from their genre's predecessors.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
FOX Japan
Add Date: February 23
Artist: FOX Japan
Album: Reenactment
Label: Small War
Genre: Rock
Comments: Having adored FOX Japan's music from the early days (hey, being a friend of the bassist certainly has its perks), I'm not surprised at what I hear on Reenactment, the group's latest record. The group blends sharp and intricate guitars with sharp and jabbing lyrics, a strong marriage of forms that make each listen a joy. Based out of Morgantown, West Virginia, brothers Sam, Charlie, and Pete Wilmoth form the core of the band, with Andrew Slater providing fine work on the guitar.
Artist: FOX Japan
Album: Reenactment
Label: Small War
Genre: Rock
Comments: Having adored FOX Japan's music from the early days (hey, being a friend of the bassist certainly has its perks), I'm not surprised at what I hear on Reenactment, the group's latest record. The group blends sharp and intricate guitars with sharp and jabbing lyrics, a strong marriage of forms that make each listen a joy. Based out of Morgantown, West Virginia, brothers Sam, Charlie, and Pete Wilmoth form the core of the band, with Andrew Slater providing fine work on the guitar.
Fans of Talking Heads, Okkervil River, and the Pixies will dig the songs on this one, particularly "Hate Hate Them" and "The Pedant." Political songs tend to make me a little uneasy, but the Brothers Wilmoth are smart about them (and sadly one of the most overtly rabble-rousing, "Glenn Beck," one of my favorites on here, is a major DNP). Catchy, off-kilter, and cynical as hell, FOX Japan delivers on its promise of producing "catchy, word-drunk indie rock."
Anna Coogan
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Anna Coogan
Album: The Nocturnal Among Us
Label: Yeah Like Yeah
Genre: Singer songwriter
Comments: There's something about Anna Coogan's simple and understated delivery that I relish, kind of ironically since it usually takes something a little more distinctive for me to be drawn to a singer songwriter. Written over the course of a couple of winters, in the dark of early mornings, The Nocturnal Among Us wears these circumstances well. Fans of Dawn Landes might enjoy this one. Start with "Crooked Sea" or "So Long Summertime."
Artist: Anna Coogan
Album: The Nocturnal Among Us
Label: Yeah Like Yeah
Genre: Singer songwriter
Comments: There's something about Anna Coogan's simple and understated delivery that I relish, kind of ironically since it usually takes something a little more distinctive for me to be drawn to a singer songwriter. Written over the course of a couple of winters, in the dark of early mornings, The Nocturnal Among Us wears these circumstances well. Fans of Dawn Landes might enjoy this one. Start with "Crooked Sea" or "So Long Summertime."
Boy Eats Drum Machine
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Boy Eats Drum Machine
Album: Hoop & Wire
Label: Tender Loving Empire
Genre: Electro-pop
Comments: Splendid work from singer, producer, visual artist, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Jon Ragel on this, Boy Eats Drum Machine's brand of out-there pop is an infectious one. And although that word is applied to far too many pop records, I truly enjoyed the ride on Hoop & Wire. Ragel's sense of humor pairs well with his serious skills to create a fine record of "blippy pop experimentations" that occasionally ramble, but are often worth the listen. "Constellation" is a standout.
Artist: Boy Eats Drum Machine
Album: Hoop & Wire
Label: Tender Loving Empire
Genre: Electro-pop
Comments: Splendid work from singer, producer, visual artist, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Jon Ragel on this, Boy Eats Drum Machine's brand of out-there pop is an infectious one. And although that word is applied to far too many pop records, I truly enjoyed the ride on Hoop & Wire. Ragel's sense of humor pairs well with his serious skills to create a fine record of "blippy pop experimentations" that occasionally ramble, but are often worth the listen. "Constellation" is a standout.
B. Dolan
Add Date: February 23
Artist: B. Dolan
Album: Fallen House Sunken City
Label: Strange Famous
Genre: Rap, hip hop
Comments: Excellent hip hop on this sophomore record from B. Dolan. The promoter calls it "full-throttle, unabashed, neck snapping, boom-bap" hip hop and I would certainly agree: cymbals crash, rhymes spin quickly, and B. Dolan's delivery is most certainly an aggressive one, all factors that work to his advantage. P.O.S., Cadence Weapon, and Buddy Peace are among the guests on this one. Start with "Leaving New York."
Artist: B. Dolan
Album: Fallen House Sunken City
Label: Strange Famous
Genre: Rap, hip hop
Comments: Excellent hip hop on this sophomore record from B. Dolan. The promoter calls it "full-throttle, unabashed, neck snapping, boom-bap" hip hop and I would certainly agree: cymbals crash, rhymes spin quickly, and B. Dolan's delivery is most certainly an aggressive one, all factors that work to his advantage. P.O.S., Cadence Weapon, and Buddy Peace are among the guests on this one. Start with "Leaving New York."
Razia
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Razia
Album: Zebu Nation
Label: Cumbancha Discovery
Genre: International, world
Comments: From Razia's Web site:
"With the album Zebu Nation, Razia has created an inspiring collection of songs that draw deeply on the music she heard growing up in the town of Antalaha in northeastern Madagascar. The source for the world’s most prized Bourbon vanilla, Antalaha is one of Madagascar’s wealthiest communities, although there remains a great gap between rich and poor....Razia first heard the infectious rhythms of local salegy music blasting out of the town’s ubiquitous radios. It was one of Razia’s older uncles that first introduced her to French music as well as The Beatles, James Brown, Jimi Hendrix and other Western stars. Her uncle even invited her to sing the latest French pop songs on stage with his band when she was just ten years old."
These influences shine, even when the words aren't in English, and if you're a fan of world music, you might enjoy Razia's "soulful portrait of Madagascar."
Datus
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Datus
Album: Masc/Fem/Neut
Label: Self-released
Genre: Ambient, experimental
Comments: Pretentious as all get out and a little bit absurd, I can't resist being the least little bit charmed by Datus, a.k.a. Ezer Longinus and Trevor Williams, who gives us three cleverly titled EPs in Masc, Fem, and Neut. Three EPs that may have been more conveniently packaged onto one disc, Datus cite Peter Gabriel and Brian Eno as influences. Ambient, meandering, and not exactly my cup of tea, but if you're looking for something a little bit "out there," give one of these discs a spin. Any one.
Artist: Datus
Album: Masc/Fem/Neut
Label: Self-released
Genre: Ambient, experimental
Comments: Pretentious as all get out and a little bit absurd, I can't resist being the least little bit charmed by Datus, a.k.a. Ezer Longinus and Trevor Williams, who gives us three cleverly titled EPs in Masc, Fem, and Neut. Three EPs that may have been more conveniently packaged onto one disc, Datus cite Peter Gabriel and Brian Eno as influences. Ambient, meandering, and not exactly my cup of tea, but if you're looking for something a little bit "out there," give one of these discs a spin. Any one.
Sean Hayes
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Sean Hayes
Album: Run Wolves Run
Label: Self-released
Genre: Soulful blues, folk
Comments: Sean Hayes plays songs that are "loose, dusty and alive," or at least that's how he describes them. "Garden" is a slow-burning folk jam (not "jam" in the Phish sense, but "jam" in the good sense) that recalls some of Iron & Wine's more recent efforts. Groovy, bluesy, and weathered -- Hayes has, after all, released five records already and appeared on NPR's "All Things Considered." Hayes strays a bit into Jack Johnson territory, but I think he's careful not to cross the line. "Open Up A Window" and "Powerful Stuff" are also swell selections.
Artist: Sean Hayes
Album: Run Wolves Run
Label: Self-released
Genre: Soulful blues, folk
Comments: Sean Hayes plays songs that are "loose, dusty and alive," or at least that's how he describes them. "Garden" is a slow-burning folk jam (not "jam" in the Phish sense, but "jam" in the good sense) that recalls some of Iron & Wine's more recent efforts. Groovy, bluesy, and weathered -- Hayes has, after all, released five records already and appeared on NPR's "All Things Considered." Hayes strays a bit into Jack Johnson territory, but I think he's careful not to cross the line. "Open Up A Window" and "Powerful Stuff" are also swell selections.
Half Acre Day
Add Date: February 23
Artist: Half Acre Day
Album: Skeletons (single)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Indie pop
Comments: Lovely little tune from these Seattle poppers, "Skeletons" is part of the group's project to release one song each month of this calendar year. If they keep sounding like this -- reminiscent of Wilco, Flaming Lips, and Built to Spill -- then they can keep them coming.
Artist: Half Acre Day
Album: Skeletons (single)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Indie pop
Comments: Lovely little tune from these Seattle poppers, "Skeletons" is part of the group's project to release one song each month of this calendar year. If they keep sounding like this -- reminiscent of Wilco, Flaming Lips, and Built to Spill -- then they can keep them coming.
Best New Music - Feb. 16
President's Day Rock. Here's the best new stuff:
Shout Out Louds
Shearwater
Nini + Ben
Past Lives
Xiu Xiu
And don't miss: Joe Pug, Corrine Bailey Rae, The White Stripes, MAVIS
Shout Out Louds
Shearwater
Nini + Ben
Past Lives
Xiu Xiu
And don't miss: Joe Pug, Corrine Bailey Rae, The White Stripes, MAVIS
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
The Organ Beats
Add Date: February 16
Artist: The Organ Beats
Album: Sleep When We Are Dead
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rawk
Comments: Female driven rock, The Organ Beats' Sleep When We Are Dead is powerpop/rock with plenty of upbeat hooks. Fans of the Donnas will enjoy.
Artist: The Organ Beats
Album: Sleep When We Are Dead
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rawk
Comments: Female driven rock, The Organ Beats' Sleep When We Are Dead is powerpop/rock with plenty of upbeat hooks. Fans of the Donnas will enjoy.
Summer Dregs
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Summer Dregs
Album: From Gold to Green
Label: Self-released
Genre: Electropop
Comments: Light, layered electropop is the focus of Summer Dregs (Carl Cadwell plus a variety of different musicians on each song), a Chattanooga based project that prides itself on being "a physical manifestation of this particular community". It's refreshing spring and summer music, recommended for fans of Passion Pit, the Postal Service, and Neon Indian (essentially, modern electropop fans should give this one a listen). Start with tracks 1, 5, and 7.
Artist: Summer Dregs
Album: From Gold to Green
Label: Self-released
Genre: Electropop
Comments: Light, layered electropop is the focus of Summer Dregs (Carl Cadwell plus a variety of different musicians on each song), a Chattanooga based project that prides itself on being "a physical manifestation of this particular community". It's refreshing spring and summer music, recommended for fans of Passion Pit, the Postal Service, and Neon Indian (essentially, modern electropop fans should give this one a listen). Start with tracks 1, 5, and 7.
Adam Green
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Adam Green
Album: Minor Love
Label: Fat Possum
Genre: Rock/Acoustic
Comments: Adam Green (of Moldy Peaches fame) has released five solo albums post-Moldy-Peaches-dissolution; his sixth, Minor Love, is an acoustic, not-really-folk record, full of unconventional, not too serious tracks, pretty straightforward instrumentation, and honest vocals. It's a cohesive record to be sure, and posited as revealing "a tender, more serious side of Green" (which might be pushing it a bit); start with tracks 1, 5 and 6 (tracks that actually sound serious and perhaps sincere).
Artist: Adam Green
Album: Minor Love
Label: Fat Possum
Genre: Rock/Acoustic
Comments: Adam Green (of Moldy Peaches fame) has released five solo albums post-Moldy-Peaches-dissolution; his sixth, Minor Love, is an acoustic, not-really-folk record, full of unconventional, not too serious tracks, pretty straightforward instrumentation, and honest vocals. It's a cohesive record to be sure, and posited as revealing "a tender, more serious side of Green" (which might be pushing it a bit); start with tracks 1, 5 and 6 (tracks that actually sound serious and perhaps sincere).
The White Stripes
Add Date: February 16
Artist: The White Stripes
Album: Under Great White Northern Lights EP
Label: Third Man/Warner Bros.
Genre: Rock
Comments: I still retain a lot of nostalgic love for the White Stripes, and was therefore pretty excited to hear that they were coming out with a live release. The Under Great White Northern Lights EP is a short but sweet 3-song teaser of live performances from the 2007 Canadian tour, released as a promo for this future full-length and DVD. The tracks are "Icky Thump", "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" and "Seven Nation Army": they all sound great live, and the EP is a great intro to what will surely be an awesome live record.
Artist: The White Stripes
Album: Under Great White Northern Lights EP
Label: Third Man/Warner Bros.
Genre: Rock
Comments: I still retain a lot of nostalgic love for the White Stripes, and was therefore pretty excited to hear that they were coming out with a live release. The Under Great White Northern Lights EP is a short but sweet 3-song teaser of live performances from the 2007 Canadian tour, released as a promo for this future full-length and DVD. The tracks are "Icky Thump", "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" and "Seven Nation Army": they all sound great live, and the EP is a great intro to what will surely be an awesome live record.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Shearwater
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Shearwater
Album: The Golden Archipelago
Label: Matador
Genre: Rock
Comments: Can I tell you a secret? I didn't really like Rook all that much as an album, but pretended that I did for a while, because I really love Okkervil River and thus really love Shearwater by association (plus their older stuff is solid). So, when I listened to The Golden Archipelago, I was prepared to write a positive review, even if it was just as personally unsatisfying as Rook. Fortunately, the album is actually totally AMAZING and I fell for it within minutes.
Here's a nice, appropriately dramatic blurb from Matador:
"Shearwater continue to explore the beauty, menace, and fragility of the natural world – and that increasingly rare species, the indivisible album – on The Golden Archipelago, the band’s most absorbing and accomplished work to date. The new record is the third panel of a triptych that includes 2006’s enigmatic Palo Santo and 2008’s acclaimed Rook, albums linked by themes of environmental and personal decay and humans’ impact on nature. In The Golden Archipelago, Shearwater turn to a portrait of life on islands – a world of alternating lushness and austerity, numinous silences and sudden cataclysms, and the strange flowerings of plant, animal, and human life that only arise in isolation. These are intimate subjects for songwriter Jonathan Meiburg. As a researcher, he’s camped on islands at the edges of the world, including the Falklands, Tierra del Fuego, the Galapagos, Madagascar, Nunavut, and New Zealand’s Chatham Islands, and once spent a few surreal months in a remote Aboriginal settlement in northern Australia. ...
"The Golden Archipelago’s beautifully and strangely-wrought musical textures summon a majesty, drama, and individuality that few current records attain, or even attempt. The band worked for months with producer John Congleton (St. Vincent, Black Mountain, Polyphonic Spree, Explosions in the Sky) to capture the thrilling dynamics that have always marked their live performances, burnished by subtle orchestrations and cascades of mallet percussion. The results are singular, revelatory, and demand to be appreciated as a whole. Islands under siege, islands of impenetrable solitude, islands of the world and islands of the mind - all are here in The Golden Archipelago, whose shores and reefs flicker and beckon, even as they crumble under rising seas."
Artist: Shearwater
Album: The Golden Archipelago
Label: Matador
Genre: Rock
Comments: Can I tell you a secret? I didn't really like Rook all that much as an album, but pretended that I did for a while, because I really love Okkervil River and thus really love Shearwater by association (plus their older stuff is solid). So, when I listened to The Golden Archipelago, I was prepared to write a positive review, even if it was just as personally unsatisfying as Rook. Fortunately, the album is actually totally AMAZING and I fell for it within minutes.
Here's a nice, appropriately dramatic blurb from Matador:
"Shearwater continue to explore the beauty, menace, and fragility of the natural world – and that increasingly rare species, the indivisible album – on The Golden Archipelago, the band’s most absorbing and accomplished work to date. The new record is the third panel of a triptych that includes 2006’s enigmatic Palo Santo and 2008’s acclaimed Rook, albums linked by themes of environmental and personal decay and humans’ impact on nature. In The Golden Archipelago, Shearwater turn to a portrait of life on islands – a world of alternating lushness and austerity, numinous silences and sudden cataclysms, and the strange flowerings of plant, animal, and human life that only arise in isolation. These are intimate subjects for songwriter Jonathan Meiburg. As a researcher, he’s camped on islands at the edges of the world, including the Falklands, Tierra del Fuego, the Galapagos, Madagascar, Nunavut, and New Zealand’s Chatham Islands, and once spent a few surreal months in a remote Aboriginal settlement in northern Australia. ...
"The Golden Archipelago’s beautifully and strangely-wrought musical textures summon a majesty, drama, and individuality that few current records attain, or even attempt. The band worked for months with producer John Congleton (St. Vincent, Black Mountain, Polyphonic Spree, Explosions in the Sky) to capture the thrilling dynamics that have always marked their live performances, burnished by subtle orchestrations and cascades of mallet percussion. The results are singular, revelatory, and demand to be appreciated as a whole. Islands under siege, islands of impenetrable solitude, islands of the world and islands of the mind - all are here in The Golden Archipelago, whose shores and reefs flicker and beckon, even as they crumble under rising seas."
Nick Curran and the Lowlifes
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Nick Curran and the Lowlifes
Album: Reform School Girl
Label: Eclecto Groove
Genre: Rock
Comments: From promoter: "Catch Nick Curran as he shakes, rattles and rolls a head-spinning combination of genres and tunes into a cool, irresistible cocktail that is rough and ready for action." This album is rock-n-roll in its ordinal form borrowing from blues, jazz, and big band; add it all up with a lot of energy and a little bit of sloppiness and you'll get Reform School Girl.
Artist: Nick Curran and the Lowlifes
Album: Reform School Girl
Label: Eclecto Groove
Genre: Rock
Comments: From promoter: "Catch Nick Curran as he shakes, rattles and rolls a head-spinning combination of genres and tunes into a cool, irresistible cocktail that is rough and ready for action." This album is rock-n-roll in its ordinal form borrowing from blues, jazz, and big band; add it all up with a lot of energy and a little bit of sloppiness and you'll get Reform School Girl.
From the album art, I was sure I was going to hate this album, but the music takes a much different artistic taste than the half-naked-girl-affected-photo album art. Beach Boys, Elvis, The Who. Nick Curran sounds like these are his favorite bands. Lots of compression, lots of gain, and lots of classic reverb, that serves as an apt description of what this album wears as far as effects go. Check out 1 and 9 to start.
Nini + Ben
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Nini + Ben
Album: The Reasons We Try
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock/Pop/Folk
Comments: If you consider yourself a fan of Nora Jones, you will surely enjoy The Reasons We Try by Nini + Ben. Beyond similar sounds the promoter boasts, "Nini sang into the same condenser microphone as Norah Jones. Not the same brand, the same one." Nini's vocals are strong, clear and articulate, and serve as the songs' driving force with forceful and interesting melodies.
Nini + Ben are a couple on top of musical partners, and the warmness and emotion in their relationship is apparent in the songs. Lap steel, piano, banjo, slide guitar, this albums got it all. Another worthwhile comparison can be found in Jessica Lea Mayfield's vocal melodies, which tend to soar and shine in front of guitar rifts and airy drums. Attention to detail is obvious in the ultra-clear, upfront production style. Start with 2, 5, 9, 1.
Artist: Nini + Ben
Album: The Reasons We Try
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock/Pop/Folk
Comments: If you consider yourself a fan of Nora Jones, you will surely enjoy The Reasons We Try by Nini + Ben. Beyond similar sounds the promoter boasts, "Nini sang into the same condenser microphone as Norah Jones. Not the same brand, the same one." Nini's vocals are strong, clear and articulate, and serve as the songs' driving force with forceful and interesting melodies.
Nini + Ben are a couple on top of musical partners, and the warmness and emotion in their relationship is apparent in the songs. Lap steel, piano, banjo, slide guitar, this albums got it all. Another worthwhile comparison can be found in Jessica Lea Mayfield's vocal melodies, which tend to soar and shine in front of guitar rifts and airy drums. Attention to detail is obvious in the ultra-clear, upfront production style. Start with 2, 5, 9, 1.
Joe Pug
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Joe Pug
Album: Messenger
Label: Lightning Rod
Genre: Folk/Rock
Comments: Paste Magazine: "Pug's scorching poetry and soulful, 'every phrase could be my last' voice will stop you cold. If you want to read the actual endorsement, touch the Braille stretching up my arms."
Joe Pug's Messenger is a refreshingly unique album in an over saturated indie folk world. Last year, Pug's EP Nation of Heat graced WLUR's playlist. This full length album will surely make fans of that release delighted, satisfied and excited that Pug has once again delivered. Comparisons with Bob Dylan's poetically rhythmic lyric delivery are hard to avoid. Adding to the Dylan parallels is the scratchy folk voice that Paste Magazine so eloquently endorses. If you're approaching this album with Nation of Heat in mind, you'll notice more dynamics: pedal steel, rhythm sections and harmonies.
Artist: Joe Pug
Album: Messenger
Label: Lightning Rod
Genre: Folk/Rock
Comments: Paste Magazine: "Pug's scorching poetry and soulful, 'every phrase could be my last' voice will stop you cold. If you want to read the actual endorsement, touch the Braille stretching up my arms."
Joe Pug's Messenger is a refreshingly unique album in an over saturated indie folk world. Last year, Pug's EP Nation of Heat graced WLUR's playlist. This full length album will surely make fans of that release delighted, satisfied and excited that Pug has once again delivered. Comparisons with Bob Dylan's poetically rhythmic lyric delivery are hard to avoid. Adding to the Dylan parallels is the scratchy folk voice that Paste Magazine so eloquently endorses. If you're approaching this album with Nation of Heat in mind, you'll notice more dynamics: pedal steel, rhythm sections and harmonies.
If you're new to Pug, then you'll be swept away by his attention to the song, lyric and honesty. The album's production puts you in the room with the music. Many of the songs are obviously recorded analog to tape, adding layers of warmth and presence that fortify the honesty and rawness within each of these songs. Out of the recent adds to the folk section at the station, Messenger is certainly at the top of my list. Start with 6, 8, 1.
Shout Out Louds
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Shout Out Louds
Album: Work
Label: Merge
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: In theory, it should be hard to be passionate about Shout Out Louds' music. After all, there are plenty of bands doing really fine indie pop these days, particularly from the band's homeland of Sweden. However, there's something to be said for mastery of one's craft, and these guys have had it going since their stunning 2005 debut Howl Howl Gaff Gaff. Work is their second record for Merge--following up on 2007's quite good Our Ill Wills--and it's their best, most complete LP yet.
As is the case with any good band, Shout Out Louds can appeal to lots of other acts--Jens Lekman, Camera Obscura, Peter Bjorn & John, Ra Ra Riot, New Order--without sounding exactly like any of them. Adam Olenius' songwriting is top of the line, and his emotive-yet-not-emo vocals ebb and flow through the album's 10 tracks. Like Lekman, Olenius has been living in Melbourne recently, and with the rest of the band scattered around the globe, Work was put together piece-by-piece. But the band's proficiency, combined with Phil Ek's production, eliminates any trace of disjointedness.
In short, this is one of 2010's best pop records. Start with "Walls," "1999," "Fall Hard" and "Show Me Something New."
Artist: Shout Out Louds
Album: Work
Label: Merge
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: In theory, it should be hard to be passionate about Shout Out Louds' music. After all, there are plenty of bands doing really fine indie pop these days, particularly from the band's homeland of Sweden. However, there's something to be said for mastery of one's craft, and these guys have had it going since their stunning 2005 debut Howl Howl Gaff Gaff. Work is their second record for Merge--following up on 2007's quite good Our Ill Wills--and it's their best, most complete LP yet.
As is the case with any good band, Shout Out Louds can appeal to lots of other acts--Jens Lekman, Camera Obscura, Peter Bjorn & John, Ra Ra Riot, New Order--without sounding exactly like any of them. Adam Olenius' songwriting is top of the line, and his emotive-yet-not-emo vocals ebb and flow through the album's 10 tracks. Like Lekman, Olenius has been living in Melbourne recently, and with the rest of the band scattered around the globe, Work was put together piece-by-piece. But the band's proficiency, combined with Phil Ek's production, eliminates any trace of disjointedness.
In short, this is one of 2010's best pop records. Start with "Walls," "1999," "Fall Hard" and "Show Me Something New."
The Law
Add Date: February 16
Artist: The Law
Album: A Measure of Wealth
Label: Local3
Genre: Indie Rock
Comments: Not much to say here. It's the same poppy, anthemic indie rock you've heard a thousand times before, and any positive push this band had was basically murdered by a withering review by NME. Still, there are some catchy type tunes, and there's nothing per se wrong with something that has absolutely no innovation, but it's hard to really go into detail about something we've all been humming since Oasis slithered out of the mucky muck.
Artist: The Law
Album: A Measure of Wealth
Label: Local3
Genre: Indie Rock
Comments: Not much to say here. It's the same poppy, anthemic indie rock you've heard a thousand times before, and any positive push this band had was basically murdered by a withering review by NME. Still, there are some catchy type tunes, and there's nothing per se wrong with something that has absolutely no innovation, but it's hard to really go into detail about something we've all been humming since Oasis slithered out of the mucky muck.
Past Lives
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Past Lives
Album: Tapestry of Webs
Label: Suicide Squeeze
Genre: Gloomy Art Punk
Comments: Between when I got the CD, and when I finally got around to listening to it (yay third year law stresses!), I had completely forgotten that the band was formed out of part of the now dead post-punk band The Blood Brothers. This is probably a good thing, because my reaction otherwise would have been "what the." Blood Brothers operated on the manic scale of modern post-punk, and while this is still within the realm of punk, the album is surprisingly reserved, almost sociopathic in its calmness. That's not to say that it still isn't loud at times, or even a little poppy radio friendly, but there's no periods of HITTING EVERY INSTRUMENT AND SCREAMING, like Blood Brothers were wont to do. I guess I'm saying is that this album lacks self-indulgence, which already kind of sets it apart from most modern stuff. Occasionally, the album downgrades into sounding a little empty rather than sparse, but at its best, things are seriously haunting.
It's probably not an album for everyone, as I would say for any album that kind of reminds me of more accessible Swans albums, but if you're in the mood for caustic, semi-dark rock music, this is a pretty good place to start.
Artist: Past Lives
Album: Tapestry of Webs
Label: Suicide Squeeze
Genre: Gloomy Art Punk
Comments: Between when I got the CD, and when I finally got around to listening to it (yay third year law stresses!), I had completely forgotten that the band was formed out of part of the now dead post-punk band The Blood Brothers. This is probably a good thing, because my reaction otherwise would have been "what the." Blood Brothers operated on the manic scale of modern post-punk, and while this is still within the realm of punk, the album is surprisingly reserved, almost sociopathic in its calmness. That's not to say that it still isn't loud at times, or even a little poppy radio friendly, but there's no periods of HITTING EVERY INSTRUMENT AND SCREAMING, like Blood Brothers were wont to do. I guess I'm saying is that this album lacks self-indulgence, which already kind of sets it apart from most modern stuff. Occasionally, the album downgrades into sounding a little empty rather than sparse, but at its best, things are seriously haunting.
It's probably not an album for everyone, as I would say for any album that kind of reminds me of more accessible Swans albums, but if you're in the mood for caustic, semi-dark rock music, this is a pretty good place to start.
Monday, February 15, 2010
MAVIS
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Various Artists
Album: MAVIS
Label: !K7
Genre: R&B
Comments: From the promoter:
"Ashley Beedle's MAVIS project was originally sparked three years ago when he and production partner Darren Morris had an evening listening to Mavis Staples and the Staples Singers. The pair were so blown away, this led them to create an instrumental which became the inspiration for the MAVIS album.
"MAVIS is a project that prides itself in being steeped in rich musical history, which will not only reach out to and seduce a more mature music-loving audience, but will also tantalize the eclectic taste buds of younger generations of fans-- those who would naturally gravitate towards Ashley's dance music world. Ashley, Darren and this team of talented artists have steered this music of classic heritage into a contemporary context, the result of being a modern and timeless musical adventure which still maintains the messages and inspirations of the original place."
A cool update on classic R&B and soul.
AAM
Artist: Various Artists
Album: MAVIS
Label: !K7
Genre: R&B
Comments: From the promoter:
"Ashley Beedle's MAVIS project was originally sparked three years ago when he and production partner Darren Morris had an evening listening to Mavis Staples and the Staples Singers. The pair were so blown away, this led them to create an instrumental which became the inspiration for the MAVIS album.
"MAVIS is a project that prides itself in being steeped in rich musical history, which will not only reach out to and seduce a more mature music-loving audience, but will also tantalize the eclectic taste buds of younger generations of fans-- those who would naturally gravitate towards Ashley's dance music world. Ashley, Darren and this team of talented artists have steered this music of classic heritage into a contemporary context, the result of being a modern and timeless musical adventure which still maintains the messages and inspirations of the original place."
A cool update on classic R&B and soul.
AAM
Winston Audio
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Winston Audio
Album: The Red Rhythm
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"'How a plant blossoms and dies and comes back again. Seasons reflect the same thing. It's all rhythmical. Just like your heart pumps blood at a constant pace. So as people we try to find where we fit in with that. Specifically, where death fits in.' This is The Red Rhythm as Daniel Dewitt, singer and bassist of Winston Audio, describes it. ...
"Touches of Seattle darkness, Southern heartfelt indie-rock, these phrases get glued to Winston Audio to describe their sound, their sonic output, but neither of theses really describes them. As the name of the album suggests, Winston Audio are slaves to a rhythm, a rhythm that takes the listener to a place they have been to before, a place familiar enough for them to let loose and feel the great release only a band can bring, no where do you see this more than when Winston Audio takes to the stage, their true home."
For fans of Dead Confederate, Mudhoney and Alberta Cross. Check out "Hey Ann."
Team Clermont
Artist: Winston Audio
Album: The Red Rhythm
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"'How a plant blossoms and dies and comes back again. Seasons reflect the same thing. It's all rhythmical. Just like your heart pumps blood at a constant pace. So as people we try to find where we fit in with that. Specifically, where death fits in.' This is The Red Rhythm as Daniel Dewitt, singer and bassist of Winston Audio, describes it. ...
"Touches of Seattle darkness, Southern heartfelt indie-rock, these phrases get glued to Winston Audio to describe their sound, their sonic output, but neither of theses really describes them. As the name of the album suggests, Winston Audio are slaves to a rhythm, a rhythm that takes the listener to a place they have been to before, a place familiar enough for them to let loose and feel the great release only a band can bring, no where do you see this more than when Winston Audio takes to the stage, their true home."
For fans of Dead Confederate, Mudhoney and Alberta Cross. Check out "Hey Ann."
Team Clermont
Donora
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Donora
Album: Donora
Label: Rostrum
Genre: Indie, Pop Rock
Comments: This Pittsburgh-based trio started to draw attention to themselves after their song Shhh was featured in a video posted on the PostSecret blog. They have since released their debut album, which is actually quite catchy and fun, except for a couple of ballads with slightly sappy lyrics that are really not my style. But the more upbeat "Shout," "Shhh," and "I Think I Like You" are really worth a listen.
Artist: Donora
Album: Donora
Label: Rostrum
Genre: Indie, Pop Rock
Comments: This Pittsburgh-based trio started to draw attention to themselves after their song Shhh was featured in a video posted on the PostSecret blog. They have since released their debut album, which is actually quite catchy and fun, except for a couple of ballads with slightly sappy lyrics that are really not my style. But the more upbeat "Shout," "Shhh," and "I Think I Like You" are really worth a listen.
Bettie Serveert
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Bettie Serveert
Album: Pharmacy of Love
Label: Second Motion
Genre: Alternative/Indie Rock
Comments: According to Wikipedia, Pharmacy of Love is the 9th album (!) of this Amsterdam-based band, though I'm not sure how many of these were also released in the U.S. It starts out quite strongly, the first song might be the best on this album actually, a sound reminiscent of Yeah Yeah Yeahs to me, except that vocalist Carol van Dyk's voice is nowhere near Karen O's. It continues along the same lines and it gets pretty boring. I guess this is what happens to mainstream sounds? "Calling" is slightly different, some electronic influences, a bit dreamy, but it goes on for too long and ruins it for me. Trivia: Bettie Serveert is Dutch for "Betty Serves." If you want to "serve" anything from this album, go to "Deny All."
Artist: Bettie Serveert
Album: Pharmacy of Love
Label: Second Motion
Genre: Alternative/Indie Rock
Comments: According to Wikipedia, Pharmacy of Love is the 9th album (!) of this Amsterdam-based band, though I'm not sure how many of these were also released in the U.S. It starts out quite strongly, the first song might be the best on this album actually, a sound reminiscent of Yeah Yeah Yeahs to me, except that vocalist Carol van Dyk's voice is nowhere near Karen O's. It continues along the same lines and it gets pretty boring. I guess this is what happens to mainstream sounds? "Calling" is slightly different, some electronic influences, a bit dreamy, but it goes on for too long and ruins it for me. Trivia: Bettie Serveert is Dutch for "Betty Serves." If you want to "serve" anything from this album, go to "Deny All."
Solid Gold
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Solid Gold
Album: Synchronize (EP)
Label: Solid Gold Music
Genre: Electro, Indie
Comments: I tend to have a soft spot for Minnesotan bands and Solid Gold has thankfully not changed this for me. NME says is better than I could: "This totally, TOTALLY addictive piece of laid-back, twinkling Minneapolis funkiness, has us mercilessly hooked."
Artist: Solid Gold
Album: Synchronize (EP)
Label: Solid Gold Music
Genre: Electro, Indie
Comments: I tend to have a soft spot for Minnesotan bands and Solid Gold has thankfully not changed this for me. NME says is better than I could: "This totally, TOTALLY addictive piece of laid-back, twinkling Minneapolis funkiness, has us mercilessly hooked."
Title track is my favorite. Also loved the cover art.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Miles Kurosky
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Miles Kurosky
Album: The Desert of Shallow Effects
Label: Majordomo
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the label:
"Miles Kurosky, former lead singer and songwriter of indie rock heroes Beulah, has announced that his first solo album, titled The Desert of Shallow Effects, will be released March 9. ... Produced by Kurosky and engineered by former Beulah member Eli Crews (Deerhoof, Why?), The Desert of Shallow Effects is a meticulously crafted, ambitious gem, utilizeing a case of more than two dozen musicians (among them several ex-Beulah members) playing a vast array of instruments. ...
"The critically praised San Fransisco-based Beulah was formed in 1996 by Miles Murosky and Bill Swan. The band released four albums and was very influential in the indie-rock world, gaining fans with their contemplative lyrics and catchy, '60's influenced melodies."
I was a big Beulah fan in high school, though I must admit I haven't been as into them lately. Kurosky's solo release still sounds very Beulah-y in its composition and thoughtful lyricism, which is good, but his voice can still be borderline annoying, which is not as good. I liked "Pink Lips, Black Lungs" best.
Artist: Miles Kurosky
Album: The Desert of Shallow Effects
Label: Majordomo
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the label:
"Miles Kurosky, former lead singer and songwriter of indie rock heroes Beulah, has announced that his first solo album, titled The Desert of Shallow Effects, will be released March 9. ... Produced by Kurosky and engineered by former Beulah member Eli Crews (Deerhoof, Why?), The Desert of Shallow Effects is a meticulously crafted, ambitious gem, utilizeing a case of more than two dozen musicians (among them several ex-Beulah members) playing a vast array of instruments. ...
"The critically praised San Fransisco-based Beulah was formed in 1996 by Miles Murosky and Bill Swan. The band released four albums and was very influential in the indie-rock world, gaining fans with their contemplative lyrics and catchy, '60's influenced melodies."
I was a big Beulah fan in high school, though I must admit I haven't been as into them lately. Kurosky's solo release still sounds very Beulah-y in its composition and thoughtful lyricism, which is good, but his voice can still be borderline annoying, which is not as good. I liked "Pink Lips, Black Lungs" best.
Corinne Bailey Rae
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Corinne Bailey Rae
Album: The Sea
Label: Capitol, EMI
Genre: Pop, R&B
Comments: From NPR's Tom Moon:
"British singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae made a splashy entrance in 2006: Propelled by "Put Your Records On," her debut entered the U.K. charts at No. 1. Here in the U.S., her album reached as high as No. 4 on the Billboard charts, brought her three Grammy nominations and eventually sold more than 4 million copies worldwide. This week, Rae returns with her second album, The Sea, and it's light-years ahead of what she'd done before.
Artist: Corinne Bailey Rae
Album: The Sea
Label: Capitol, EMI
Genre: Pop, R&B
Comments: From NPR's Tom Moon:
"British singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae made a splashy entrance in 2006: Propelled by "Put Your Records On," her debut entered the U.K. charts at No. 1. Here in the U.S., her album reached as high as No. 4 on the Billboard charts, brought her three Grammy nominations and eventually sold more than 4 million copies worldwide. This week, Rae returns with her second album, The Sea, and it's light-years ahead of what she'd done before.
When a young singer has a hit right out of the gate, the way Rae did, you can usually predict what comes next: more of the same. It's understandable, because these days, nobody in the music business likes to mess with success. But that's one reason her follow-up is so interesting. It's hardly a replica of what worked last time.
Rae's second effort marks the arrival of a newly observant songwriter and an absolutely fearless singer. It's a massive leap forward.
For a while after her debut, Rae was living the dream. She toured all over the world and collaborated with several of her idols, including legendary singer Al Green. Then, in early 2008, while she was recording this album, her husband died suddenly from an accidental drug overdose. ...
Sadness runs throughout The Sea. It even lurks between the lines of upbeat tunes that showcase her fierce, intensely rhythmic delivery. Armchair pop-culture psychologists will say that Rae's growth is the direct result of her recent experience. That's an inevitable conclusion, but it shortchanges her.
What I hear in her mesmerizing vocals — and the album's delicate blending of jazz, soul and pop — is profound artistic restlessness. She didn't just work through grief; she pushed herself past whatever worked before, until she landed on a sound that's thrilling and bold, and like nothing else."
Check out "Paris Nights/New York Mornings."Adam Ezra Group
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Adam Ezra Group
Album: View from the Root
Label: Black Wolf
Genre: Pop, Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"Adam Ezra Group is a dynamic acoustic roots/rock band rising to the top of the Boston music scene. Their unique diversity of roots, pop and acoustic rock sounds, perfectly combines Ezra's passion for smart well-written lyrics and the band's fine tuned musicianship. ... Live, the group is engaging, lyrically thought-provoking, and rocking. Adam will sweat on you. You'll dance while learning about senate processes and pondering the absurdities of war. He'll play the harmonica. Plus, there is a guy named Turtle that'll make you shake your butt. There is a definite 'feel good vibe' to the song."
Planetary
Artist: Adam Ezra Group
Album: View from the Root
Label: Black Wolf
Genre: Pop, Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"Adam Ezra Group is a dynamic acoustic roots/rock band rising to the top of the Boston music scene. Their unique diversity of roots, pop and acoustic rock sounds, perfectly combines Ezra's passion for smart well-written lyrics and the band's fine tuned musicianship. ... Live, the group is engaging, lyrically thought-provoking, and rocking. Adam will sweat on you. You'll dance while learning about senate processes and pondering the absurdities of war. He'll play the harmonica. Plus, there is a guy named Turtle that'll make you shake your butt. There is a definite 'feel good vibe' to the song."
Planetary
Story of the Year
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Story of the Year
Album: The Constant
Label: Anti-/Epitaph
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"St. Louis' hardest rocking band, Story of the Year, return February 2010 with their new record, The Constant. Known for their kinetic live shows and ridiculously catchy songs, Story of the Year have always been famously ballsy in their mixing of glossy production, big rock hooks and honey melodies with searing metal riffs and intense screaming. .. For fans of the Used, Escape the Fate, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Linkin Park, and Taking Back Sunday."
"I'm Alive" is the radio single.
Pirate
Artist: Story of the Year
Album: The Constant
Label: Anti-/Epitaph
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"St. Louis' hardest rocking band, Story of the Year, return February 2010 with their new record, The Constant. Known for their kinetic live shows and ridiculously catchy songs, Story of the Year have always been famously ballsy in their mixing of glossy production, big rock hooks and honey melodies with searing metal riffs and intense screaming. .. For fans of the Used, Escape the Fate, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Linkin Park, and Taking Back Sunday."
"I'm Alive" is the radio single.
Pirate
Wanda Jackson
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Wanda Jackson
Album: Singles
Label: Third Man
Genre: Rock, Rockabilly
Comments: From the promoter:
"First up is the highly anticipated Jack White-produced single by rock and roll and country singing legend, Wanda Jackson. In an era when rock and roll and rockabilly was dominated by men, Jackson was a groundbreaker who more than held her own with a ripping voice like no other and hard-headed songs about no-nonsense female protagonists. ... Jackson's first release with Third Man Records has her putting her distinctive spin on two cover songs, Amy Winehouse's 'You Know I'm No Good' and Johnny Kidd and the Pirates classic rocker 'Shakin' All Over.'"
The Syndicate
Artist: Wanda Jackson
Album: Singles
Label: Third Man
Genre: Rock, Rockabilly
Comments: From the promoter:
"First up is the highly anticipated Jack White-produced single by rock and roll and country singing legend, Wanda Jackson. In an era when rock and roll and rockabilly was dominated by men, Jackson was a groundbreaker who more than held her own with a ripping voice like no other and hard-headed songs about no-nonsense female protagonists. ... Jackson's first release with Third Man Records has her putting her distinctive spin on two cover songs, Amy Winehouse's 'You Know I'm No Good' and Johnny Kidd and the Pirates classic rocker 'Shakin' All Over.'"
The Syndicate
Calendar for Preston
Add Date: February 16
Artist: Calendar for Preston
Album: Paint by Numbers
Label: Self-released
Genre: Alternative, Pop
Comments: Calendar for Preston has been described as similar to Fall Out Boy, The Killers, or Incubus.
Tinderbox
Artist: Calendar for Preston
Album: Paint by Numbers
Label: Self-released
Genre: Alternative, Pop
Comments: Calendar for Preston has been described as similar to Fall Out Boy, The Killers, or Incubus.
Tinderbox
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Best of the Week - Feb. 9
One of our strongest weeks in a long while. Check these out:
My Robot Friend
Ben Sollee and Daniel Martin Moore
Lightspeed Champion
Via Audio
Mumford & Sons
Ben Sollee and Daniel Martin Moore
Lightspeed Champion
Via Audio
Mumford & Sons
And don't miss any of these: Phantogram, Yukon Blonde, Tiny Television, Massive Attack, Field Music, Ernest Gonzales
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Title Tracks
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Title Tracks
Album: It Was Easy
Label: Ernest Jenning Recording Co.
Genre: Indie Rock/Pop
Comments: So, John Davis was a drummer for the DC post-hardcore band Q And Not U, then went on to play guitar and vocals in the poppier band Georgie James (which had a less than happy ending recently). I don't know why the advertisement sheet heavily promoted the whole Q And Not U angle, because aside from a few throwback tracks, this album is pretty heavily centered on the pop side. It's also a pretty warm album, from John Davis buttery (though not unpleasant) voice to the total lack of any sort of confrontational tunes, at least music-wise. There's a certain amount of sinister aspect to his lyrics, though it's hardly the male version of The Cardigans. Ultimately, the downfall of Title Tracks is despite listening to it like two times today, I still can't remember much about it, except that the first track made me want to surf, and the last track reminded me of Mission of Burma enough that I wanted to listen to the latter again.
Artist: Title Tracks
Album: It Was Easy
Label: Ernest Jenning Recording Co.
Genre: Indie Rock/Pop
Comments: So, John Davis was a drummer for the DC post-hardcore band Q And Not U, then went on to play guitar and vocals in the poppier band Georgie James (which had a less than happy ending recently). I don't know why the advertisement sheet heavily promoted the whole Q And Not U angle, because aside from a few throwback tracks, this album is pretty heavily centered on the pop side. It's also a pretty warm album, from John Davis buttery (though not unpleasant) voice to the total lack of any sort of confrontational tunes, at least music-wise. There's a certain amount of sinister aspect to his lyrics, though it's hardly the male version of The Cardigans. Ultimately, the downfall of Title Tracks is despite listening to it like two times today, I still can't remember much about it, except that the first track made me want to surf, and the last track reminded me of Mission of Burma enough that I wanted to listen to the latter again.
Jaga Jazzist
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Jaga Jazzist
Album: One Armed Bandit
Label: Ninja Tune
Genre: Acid Rock/Jazz
Comments: Jaga Jazzist (which reminds me of a bad videogame villain name)is a 9-piece Norwegian experimental type band, whose listed influences include My Bloody Valentine, Fela Kuti, Dungen, Jean Claude Vannier, Tortoise, Cornelius, Sonic Youth, and MGMT (I'd also argue there's a fair bit of early Stereolab in the mix).
I'm not gonna lie, I loved this album more than I have for the albums I've reviewed for awhile. It might just be because we're living through some sort of eternal snow hell, since this album invokes the idea of a "crappy winter." There's a definite lack of warm sounds in this album, and instead long slogs through musical snow (the shortest "real" track in this album is four and a half minutes, and the average track is a little over six), occasionally with bursts of sonic energy that leave you disoriented, in a whiteout sort of way. While the album is anchored to the concepts of acid jazz/prog rock musical experimentation, there's alot of different directions the band goes in, while avoiding obvious rise/fall/rise/bore patterns that alot of bad experimental bands collapse into (speaking of which, some guy from Tortoise produced this album). Standout tracks are "One-Armed Bandit" (which shifts from acid soaked spy soundtrack to electropop and back again), "Toccata" (a nine minute journey along the same lines of the "Halloween" title theme), and "Bananfluer Overalt" (probably the safest choice if you don't want your listeners to hate you forever).
Artist: Jaga Jazzist
Album: One Armed Bandit
Label: Ninja Tune
Genre: Acid Rock/Jazz
Comments: Jaga Jazzist (which reminds me of a bad videogame villain name)is a 9-piece Norwegian experimental type band, whose listed influences include My Bloody Valentine, Fela Kuti, Dungen, Jean Claude Vannier, Tortoise, Cornelius, Sonic Youth, and MGMT (I'd also argue there's a fair bit of early Stereolab in the mix).
I'm not gonna lie, I loved this album more than I have for the albums I've reviewed for awhile. It might just be because we're living through some sort of eternal snow hell, since this album invokes the idea of a "crappy winter." There's a definite lack of warm sounds in this album, and instead long slogs through musical snow (the shortest "real" track in this album is four and a half minutes, and the average track is a little over six), occasionally with bursts of sonic energy that leave you disoriented, in a whiteout sort of way. While the album is anchored to the concepts of acid jazz/prog rock musical experimentation, there's alot of different directions the band goes in, while avoiding obvious rise/fall/rise/bore patterns that alot of bad experimental bands collapse into (speaking of which, some guy from Tortoise produced this album). Standout tracks are "One-Armed Bandit" (which shifts from acid soaked spy soundtrack to electropop and back again), "Toccata" (a nine minute journey along the same lines of the "Halloween" title theme), and "Bananfluer Overalt" (probably the safest choice if you don't want your listeners to hate you forever).
Gil Scott-Heron
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Gil Scott-Heron
Album: I'm New Here
Label: XL
Genre: Hip hop, spoken word, rock
Comments: From the label: "Without doubt one of the most important voices in American music, Gil Scott-Heron has been called a Vietnam-era Langston Hughes, a proto-rap pioneer, and--offensively but not inaccurately--the black Bob Dylan, someone whose unfailingly sharp and ironic eye spared neither Black Power phonies or scheming presidents. In 1971 he laid out the blueprint for the whole hip hop genre with... The Revolution Will Not Be Televised, on which the then-23-year-old poetically dismantled the entire '70s culture...
"I'm New Here, Scott-Heron's first album in 16 years, finds the artist sounding as vital as ever; it is a record that reveals something unexpected at every turn... Alongside his I'm New Here collaborator--producer and XL Recordings head Richard Russell--Scott-Heron has made an album that eschews the cozy arrangements and retrospective leanings one might expect from an artist over 40 years into his career...
"I'm New Here mixes Scott-Heron's reflections on his life and this moment with Russell's flickering electronic soundscapes, which at various times conjure up thoughts of Burial and The xx, as well as a host of hip-hop influenced sounds (including the sample of Kanye's 'Flashing Lights' that grounds the two-part 'On Coming From a Broken Home'). Occasionally the electronics are stripped right back--as they are on the beautiful, heartfelt 'I'll Take Care of You,' or the title track, a Smog cover, where Scott-Heron's weathered baritone completely owns Bill Callahan's lyrics, transforming them with the force of his own history."
Artist: Gil Scott-Heron
Album: I'm New Here
Label: XL
Genre: Hip hop, spoken word, rock
Comments: From the label: "Without doubt one of the most important voices in American music, Gil Scott-Heron has been called a Vietnam-era Langston Hughes, a proto-rap pioneer, and--offensively but not inaccurately--the black Bob Dylan, someone whose unfailingly sharp and ironic eye spared neither Black Power phonies or scheming presidents. In 1971 he laid out the blueprint for the whole hip hop genre with... The Revolution Will Not Be Televised, on which the then-23-year-old poetically dismantled the entire '70s culture...
"I'm New Here, Scott-Heron's first album in 16 years, finds the artist sounding as vital as ever; it is a record that reveals something unexpected at every turn... Alongside his I'm New Here collaborator--producer and XL Recordings head Richard Russell--Scott-Heron has made an album that eschews the cozy arrangements and retrospective leanings one might expect from an artist over 40 years into his career...
"I'm New Here mixes Scott-Heron's reflections on his life and this moment with Russell's flickering electronic soundscapes, which at various times conjure up thoughts of Burial and The xx, as well as a host of hip-hop influenced sounds (including the sample of Kanye's 'Flashing Lights' that grounds the two-part 'On Coming From a Broken Home'). Occasionally the electronics are stripped right back--as they are on the beautiful, heartfelt 'I'll Take Care of You,' or the title track, a Smog cover, where Scott-Heron's weathered baritone completely owns Bill Callahan's lyrics, transforming them with the force of his own history."
Field Music
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Field Music
Album: Measure
Label: Memphis Industries
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: From the promoter: "Following a self-imposed three-year hiatus, Sunderland's Field Music are set to return with a new 20-track album of artful English pop... The new album... is a gloriously rich LP that entwines the brothers' [Peter and David Brewis] renewed love of the rock music canon with a rediscovery of some of pop's overlooked adventurers... This record is a multi-layered experience that leaves the listener with remnants of Brian Eno, Lou Reed and Crazy Horse."
Check out "Them That Do Nothing," "Something Familiar" and "The Rest Is Noise."
Artist: Field Music
Album: Measure
Label: Memphis Industries
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: From the promoter: "Following a self-imposed three-year hiatus, Sunderland's Field Music are set to return with a new 20-track album of artful English pop... The new album... is a gloriously rich LP that entwines the brothers' [Peter and David Brewis] renewed love of the rock music canon with a rediscovery of some of pop's overlooked adventurers... This record is a multi-layered experience that leaves the listener with remnants of Brian Eno, Lou Reed and Crazy Horse."
Check out "Them That Do Nothing," "Something Familiar" and "The Rest Is Noise."
Monday, February 8, 2010
Yukon Blonde
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Yukon Blonde
Album: Yukon Blonde
Label: Bumstead/Nevado
Genre: Pop
Comments: From Hero Hill:
"The synths and harmonies that jump start the LP trigger countless memories of a time where music mattered to people - to make it easier, lets just all remember the moment where Zooey Deschanel hooks her nerdy little bro with a candle and a copy of Tommy - but band is determined to prove that they are more than the sum of their influences. ...
"Honestly, if you can't get into this record you are simply trying too hard. The hat trick of hooks that is 'Trivial Fires,' 'Brides Song' and 'Babies Don't Like Blue Anymore' can stack up against any fourteen minutes of Canadian music you will hear this year, but the unexpected highs are just as important to the success of the band. The surging power of the anthemic Loyal Man moves you from the breezy, sun filled days you expect and makes you think anything is possible. When it comes to Yukon Blonde, I'm starting to think that it just might be."
This Vancouver group is getting compared to Fleet Foxes, Midlake and Black Mountain. Check out "Babies Don't Like Blue Anymore."
Team Clermont
Artist: Yukon Blonde
Album: Yukon Blonde
Label: Bumstead/Nevado
Genre: Pop
Comments: From Hero Hill:
"The synths and harmonies that jump start the LP trigger countless memories of a time where music mattered to people - to make it easier, lets just all remember the moment where Zooey Deschanel hooks her nerdy little bro with a candle and a copy of Tommy - but band is determined to prove that they are more than the sum of their influences. ...
"Honestly, if you can't get into this record you are simply trying too hard. The hat trick of hooks that is 'Trivial Fires,' 'Brides Song' and 'Babies Don't Like Blue Anymore' can stack up against any fourteen minutes of Canadian music you will hear this year, but the unexpected highs are just as important to the success of the band. The surging power of the anthemic Loyal Man moves you from the breezy, sun filled days you expect and makes you think anything is possible. When it comes to Yukon Blonde, I'm starting to think that it just might be."
This Vancouver group is getting compared to Fleet Foxes, Midlake and Black Mountain. Check out "Babies Don't Like Blue Anymore."
Team Clermont
Via Audio
Add Date: 2/9/10
Artist: Via Audio
Album: Animalore
Label: Undertow
Genre: Pop, Folk
Comments: From the promoter:
"Two years after the release of their critically acclaimed album 'Say Something,' Brooklyn-based indie pop quartet Via Audio release their sophomore album, Animalore, a collection of eccentric sounds infused with fairy tales, folklore, science fiction, romance, seduction and adventure. Recording the album in Spoon drummer Jim Eno's Austin, Texas studio in 2009, Via Audtio tackled their latest songbook as Eno artfully crafted different sonic palettess for each unique song on Animalore. The result is an indie rock album that servs as a pop-up book for adults, bursting with vivid colors and secret corridors at the turn of every page."
Lovely, diverse, intricate songs. For fans of Headlights, Belle & Sebastian, and Real Estate. Listen to the breathy vocals on "Oh Blah Wee" or the sort-of silly "Lizard Song."
Pirate
Add?
Artist: Via Audio
Album: Animalore
Label: Undertow
Genre: Pop, Folk
Comments: From the promoter:
"Two years after the release of their critically acclaimed album 'Say Something,' Brooklyn-based indie pop quartet Via Audio release their sophomore album, Animalore, a collection of eccentric sounds infused with fairy tales, folklore, science fiction, romance, seduction and adventure. Recording the album in Spoon drummer Jim Eno's Austin, Texas studio in 2009, Via Audtio tackled their latest songbook as Eno artfully crafted different sonic palettess for each unique song on Animalore. The result is an indie rock album that servs as a pop-up book for adults, bursting with vivid colors and secret corridors at the turn of every page."
Lovely, diverse, intricate songs. For fans of Headlights, Belle & Sebastian, and Real Estate. Listen to the breathy vocals on "Oh Blah Wee" or the sort-of silly "Lizard Song."
Pirate
Add?
Baylock
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Baylock
Album: One Good to Be Told
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, Jam
Comments: From the promoter:
"Baylock has already made a name for themselves in their hometown of Providence, RI and are expanding to greater New England and the rest of North America at a fast pace, opening for bands such as Badfish, Moshav, and Zox. ... Although [the group's] tastes are constantly changing, there are those few artists who make lasting impressions and can be found almost anywhere in Baylock's music, such as Ben Harper, Pearl Jam, Dispatch, Third Eye Blind, and Sublime."
Powderfinger
Artist: Baylock
Album: One Good to Be Told
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, Jam
Comments: From the promoter:
"Baylock has already made a name for themselves in their hometown of Providence, RI and are expanding to greater New England and the rest of North America at a fast pace, opening for bands such as Badfish, Moshav, and Zox. ... Although [the group's] tastes are constantly changing, there are those few artists who make lasting impressions and can be found almost anywhere in Baylock's music, such as Ben Harper, Pearl Jam, Dispatch, Third Eye Blind, and Sublime."
Powderfinger
Freeway & Jake One
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Freeway & Jake One
Album: The Stimulus Package
Label: Rhyme Sayers
Genre: Hip Hop
Comments: From the promoter:
"On February 17th, 2009, in an effort to stimulate the U.S. economy, President Barack Obama signed into law The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, better known as the stimulus package. On February 16th of 2010, another bad brother, Philadelphia Freeway, seizes the moment and sets out to stimulate the Hip Hop industry by signing into law The Hip Hop Recovery and Reinvestment Act with the release of his third official studio album."
The most original CD packaging I've ever seen. Check out "Throw Your Hands Up."
Artist: Freeway & Jake One
Album: The Stimulus Package
Label: Rhyme Sayers
Genre: Hip Hop
Comments: From the promoter:
"On February 17th, 2009, in an effort to stimulate the U.S. economy, President Barack Obama signed into law The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, better known as the stimulus package. On February 16th of 2010, another bad brother, Philadelphia Freeway, seizes the moment and sets out to stimulate the Hip Hop industry by signing into law The Hip Hop Recovery and Reinvestment Act with the release of his third official studio album."
The most original CD packaging I've ever seen. Check out "Throw Your Hands Up."
Ernest Gonzales
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Ernest Gonzales
Album: Been Meaning to Tell You
Label: FoF Music
Genre: Electronic, Experimental
Comments: From the promoter:
"First with the Self-Awakening EP, Friends of Friends Music is now venturing deeper into the beautifully textured world of Ernest Gonzales with his new LP Been Meaning to Tell You. A testament to Ernest's wife, Devyn, in the form a multimedia project (art book, website, 180 white vinyl) Been Meaning to Tell You is a truly unique artistic experience. Psychedelic rifts and acoustic guitars alike haunt the album's 13 tracks with electronic highlights weaving in and out as all songs are linked by a well of innovative sincerity. His unique sound has already received accolades from places like Pitchfork and XLR8R..."
This sounds something like if Do Make Say Think, old RATATAT and Sigur Ros all got to together and made something heartfelt. Check out "Dancing in the Snow" or "Untitled Love Song."
Artist: Ernest Gonzales
Album: Been Meaning to Tell You
Label: FoF Music
Genre: Electronic, Experimental
Comments: From the promoter:
"First with the Self-Awakening EP, Friends of Friends Music is now venturing deeper into the beautifully textured world of Ernest Gonzales with his new LP Been Meaning to Tell You. A testament to Ernest's wife, Devyn, in the form a multimedia project (art book, website, 180 white vinyl) Been Meaning to Tell You is a truly unique artistic experience. Psychedelic rifts and acoustic guitars alike haunt the album's 13 tracks with electronic highlights weaving in and out as all songs are linked by a well of innovative sincerity. His unique sound has already received accolades from places like Pitchfork and XLR8R..."
This sounds something like if Do Make Say Think, old RATATAT and Sigur Ros all got to together and made something heartfelt. Check out "Dancing in the Snow" or "Untitled Love Song."
Venus Bogardus
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Venus Bogardus
Album: Spitting at the Glass
Label: fiveO3
Genre: Rock, Post-Punk
Comments: From the promoter:
"Spitting at the Glass is the third album from acclaimed transatlantic post-punk trio Venus Bogardus, and the band's first new release on New York's five03 records. The album showcases the band's talent for weaving cathartic tension out of no-wave noise, pop overtones and remarkable lyrical sensibility. Spitting at the Glass, with its played-live essense, more completely reflects the improvisational, free-noise influences suggsted by the band's previous releases, finally caputuring the raw poetic power of Venus Bogardus live."
Not for everyone-- but if you're looking for a post-punk " in," check out "Permanent Notice."
Planetary
Artist: Venus Bogardus
Album: Spitting at the Glass
Label: fiveO3
Genre: Rock, Post-Punk
Comments: From the promoter:
"Spitting at the Glass is the third album from acclaimed transatlantic post-punk trio Venus Bogardus, and the band's first new release on New York's five03 records. The album showcases the band's talent for weaving cathartic tension out of no-wave noise, pop overtones and remarkable lyrical sensibility. Spitting at the Glass, with its played-live essense, more completely reflects the improvisational, free-noise influences suggsted by the band's previous releases, finally caputuring the raw poetic power of Venus Bogardus live."
Not for everyone-- but if you're looking for a post-punk " in," check out "Permanent Notice."
Planetary
Kashmir
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Kashmir
Album: No Balance (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"With ten Danish Music Awards, double platinum sales and sold out tours under their belt, Kashmir, the Danish rock band, made their way to the United States in the fall of 2009. ... The four piece quartet marries rock/pop lyricsism with yearning themes, well-grounded composition and experimental musicianship that purely electrifies audiences with their latest release."
I'm reminded of the Goo Goo Dolls, though honestly it's been so long since I listened to them that I'm not 100% on that comparison. "She's Made of Chalk" has the most potential.
Planetary
Artist: Kashmir
Album: No Balance (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"With ten Danish Music Awards, double platinum sales and sold out tours under their belt, Kashmir, the Danish rock band, made their way to the United States in the fall of 2009. ... The four piece quartet marries rock/pop lyricsism with yearning themes, well-grounded composition and experimental musicianship that purely electrifies audiences with their latest release."
I'm reminded of the Goo Goo Dolls, though honestly it's been so long since I listened to them that I'm not 100% on that comparison. "She's Made of Chalk" has the most potential.
Planetary
Fictionalist
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Fictionalist
Album: Lasting Echo
Label: Red Owl
Genre: Pop, Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
Artist: Fictionalist
Album: Lasting Echo
Label: Red Owl
Genre: Pop, Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"Fictionalist composes and plays in the pursuit of imaginative and novel rock music. Audiences and critics applaud their elegant songwriting, bold textures, sensitive orchestration and dynamic tracks. Equipped with vivid and ethereal tones and textures, the six-member ensemble boats a distinctive sound that lends a rich and intelligible sophistication to rock and roll."
A little cheesy, but in that Dave Matthews way people seem to like. Go to "Blue-Eyed Universe."
Tinderbox
A little cheesy, but in that Dave Matthews way people seem to like. Go to "Blue-Eyed Universe."
Tinderbox
My Robot Friend
Add Date: February 9
Artist: My Robot Friend
Album: Soft-Core
Label: Double Feature
Genre: Pop, Electronic
Comments: From the promoter:
"My Robot Friend is a colorful, conceptual musical and performance art project let by Howard Robot, and aided by various collaborators and co-conspirators. The central idea of the concept, as posed by My Robot Friend, is that human beings are actually advanced machines-- 'squishy machines,' if you will. . ... Comparable to Her Space Holiday or Hot Chip, Howard's music is soft and intricately composed with incredibly catchy rhythms, blending pop aesthetics and minimalist electronic stylings."
Soft-spoken, super fun, catchy pop numbers for fans of The Battle Royale, Islands, or Hot Chip. Listen to "Failure" or "Misfits Fight Song."
Terrorbird
Artist: My Robot Friend
Album: Soft-Core
Label: Double Feature
Genre: Pop, Electronic
Comments: From the promoter:
"My Robot Friend is a colorful, conceptual musical and performance art project let by Howard Robot, and aided by various collaborators and co-conspirators. The central idea of the concept, as posed by My Robot Friend, is that human beings are actually advanced machines-- 'squishy machines,' if you will. . ... Comparable to Her Space Holiday or Hot Chip, Howard's music is soft and intricately composed with incredibly catchy rhythms, blending pop aesthetics and minimalist electronic stylings."
Soft-spoken, super fun, catchy pop numbers for fans of The Battle Royale, Islands, or Hot Chip. Listen to "Failure" or "Misfits Fight Song."
Terrorbird
Tiny Television
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Tiny Television
Album: Mission Statement
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk Rock
Comments: Another great folk album that is hitting the play list this week. Woo! Tiny Television's album Mission Statement is far from minimalist, but still gives a sense of openness that is tough to describe. From a review off the band's website: "Tiny Television Similar to Ryan Adams and Jay Farrar of Uncle Tupelo and Son Volt, Jeremy D’Antonio captures the mood of the country’s wide-open road and the possibilities and loneliness it can bring."
As far as the Ryan Adams comparison, it would be difficult not to draw from this album. The choruses are powerful and catchy, with hooks that seem to come from too many directions to describe. These sorts of choruses make me think of Adam's golden days in Whiskeytown. Tiny Television is from Santa Fe and fronted by singer/songwriter Jeremy D’Antonio. There are lead guitar parts, lap steel twangs, and soulful organs. . . What could be better? The least appealing part of this album is definitely the album art (I'm not visual artist critic, but this just isn't taking my fancy), and having this as an album's downfall means positive things for the music. I would definitely check it out for yourself. Start with 2, 3, 6, 7.
Artist: Tiny Television
Album: Mission Statement
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk Rock
Comments: Another great folk album that is hitting the play list this week. Woo! Tiny Television's album Mission Statement is far from minimalist, but still gives a sense of openness that is tough to describe. From a review off the band's website: "Tiny Television Similar to Ryan Adams and Jay Farrar of Uncle Tupelo and Son Volt, Jeremy D’Antonio captures the mood of the country’s wide-open road and the possibilities and loneliness it can bring."
As far as the Ryan Adams comparison, it would be difficult not to draw from this album. The choruses are powerful and catchy, with hooks that seem to come from too many directions to describe. These sorts of choruses make me think of Adam's golden days in Whiskeytown. Tiny Television is from Santa Fe and fronted by singer/songwriter Jeremy D’Antonio. There are lead guitar parts, lap steel twangs, and soulful organs. . . What could be better? The least appealing part of this album is definitely the album art (I'm not visual artist critic, but this just isn't taking my fancy), and having this as an album's downfall means positive things for the music. I would definitely check it out for yourself. Start with 2, 3, 6, 7.
Mumford & Sons
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Mumford & Sons
Album: Sigh No More
Label: Island
Genre: Rock and Folk
Comments: Folk music. . . from London? Just a quick look a Wikipedia will tell you that Mumford & Sons defines what it means to be "huge in Europe." These guys deserve the attention, and with their first full length release Sigh No More Mumford & Sons are looking for acclaim in the States, and I hope we give it to them. There are banjos, horns, mandolins and layers, layers, layers on this album. The lead singer, Marcus Mumford, has a voice that rings similar to Marc Roberge of OAR. Even some of the vocal melodies can sound Of a Revolution-esque. But it is important to note that Mumford & Sons certainly have their own sound.
Some Irish, a lot of folk and definitely rock -- that's how I would sum this album up if I had to in a sentence fragment. This is not a soft acoustic folk album, and the energy on the album prompts desires to see this group live in show. Mark Dravs produced this album, along with albums by Arcade Fire and Bjork. I would give this a thumbs up! Any track off Sigh No More will certainly spruce up your show's play list. If you're into hymnal sounding/build-up songs check out track 1. Otherwise check out 2, 5, and 10.
Artist: Mumford & Sons
Album: Sigh No More
Label: Island
Genre: Rock and Folk
Comments: Folk music. . . from London? Just a quick look a Wikipedia will tell you that Mumford & Sons defines what it means to be "huge in Europe." These guys deserve the attention, and with their first full length release Sigh No More Mumford & Sons are looking for acclaim in the States, and I hope we give it to them. There are banjos, horns, mandolins and layers, layers, layers on this album. The lead singer, Marcus Mumford, has a voice that rings similar to Marc Roberge of OAR. Even some of the vocal melodies can sound Of a Revolution-esque. But it is important to note that Mumford & Sons certainly have their own sound.
Some Irish, a lot of folk and definitely rock -- that's how I would sum this album up if I had to in a sentence fragment. This is not a soft acoustic folk album, and the energy on the album prompts desires to see this group live in show. Mark Dravs produced this album, along with albums by Arcade Fire and Bjork. I would give this a thumbs up! Any track off Sigh No More will certainly spruce up your show's play list. If you're into hymnal sounding/build-up songs check out track 1. Otherwise check out 2, 5, and 10.
Ben Sollee and Daniel Martin Moore
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Ben Sollee and Daniel Martin Moore
Album: Dear Companion
Label: Sup Pop
Genre: Folk/Rock
Comments: Dear Companion jets off at a thousand miles per hour with the opening track "Something, Somewhere, Sometime." And I don't mean just the tempo, the whole sha-bang took me by surprise at first listen. Sollee and Moore, obviously a male duo, have both released individual solo albums in the past. Their collaboration sparked the interest of Yim Yames (My Morning Jacket, Solo artist, Monsters of Folk) who produced the album that comes out on Sub Pop on February 16.
These are folk songs that seem traditional at the very lightest glance. A deeper look into things shows that although the structure and chords may sound familiar, the voices, harmonies, melodies, cellos, banjos, and most of all lyrics all combine to create an exciting, flavorful and refreshing folk pop album. However pretentious it is to say, I am drawn to describe Solle and Moore's sound as intellectualized folk that any simple man would find accessible. Beyond music, the three (Sollee, Moore and Yames) are united by a strong concern for the harmful effects of mountain top removal, and it shows in the songs. The seventh track "Flyrock Blues" is just one of the handful of tracks that directly address the issue: "In West Virginia the water's bad... Maybe you're living far away... but if they ever find a black rock ther, you better be aware or you'll know the flyrock blues too."
The album's finger picking is exceptional, the voices are comforting, and the songs all move in the same direction leaving whoever listens to the whole thing through feeling excited, challanged, and invested. Start with 1, 6, 10.
Artist: Ben Sollee and Daniel Martin Moore
Album: Dear Companion
Label: Sup Pop
Genre: Folk/Rock
Comments: Dear Companion jets off at a thousand miles per hour with the opening track "Something, Somewhere, Sometime." And I don't mean just the tempo, the whole sha-bang took me by surprise at first listen. Sollee and Moore, obviously a male duo, have both released individual solo albums in the past. Their collaboration sparked the interest of Yim Yames (My Morning Jacket, Solo artist, Monsters of Folk) who produced the album that comes out on Sub Pop on February 16.
These are folk songs that seem traditional at the very lightest glance. A deeper look into things shows that although the structure and chords may sound familiar, the voices, harmonies, melodies, cellos, banjos, and most of all lyrics all combine to create an exciting, flavorful and refreshing folk pop album. However pretentious it is to say, I am drawn to describe Solle and Moore's sound as intellectualized folk that any simple man would find accessible. Beyond music, the three (Sollee, Moore and Yames) are united by a strong concern for the harmful effects of mountain top removal, and it shows in the songs. The seventh track "Flyrock Blues" is just one of the handful of tracks that directly address the issue: "In West Virginia the water's bad... Maybe you're living far away... but if they ever find a black rock ther, you better be aware or you'll know the flyrock blues too."
The album's finger picking is exceptional, the voices are comforting, and the songs all move in the same direction leaving whoever listens to the whole thing through feeling excited, challanged, and invested. Start with 1, 6, 10.
Everybody Was In The French Resistance...Now
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Everybody Was In The French Resistnace...Now
Album: Fixin' The Charts
Label: Cooking Vinyl
Genre: "Alt-Pop
Comments: Everybody Was In The French Resistance...Now is Art Brut's Eddie Argos' side project, and it's pretty sweet. A collection of songs that are responses to other songs (like "Coal Digger", a response to...you guessed it, Kanye's "Gold Digger"), the cd is good fun, and hopefully meant to be taken lightly. And for that, it's wildly enjoyable, because it's a hilarious concept (fixing the charts?!) that's done well, and backed up by actual musical abilities. The songs are catchy and unpretentious; start with tracks 2, 5, and 10.
Artist: Everybody Was In The French Resistnace...Now
Album: Fixin' The Charts
Label: Cooking Vinyl
Genre: "Alt-Pop
Comments: Everybody Was In The French Resistance...Now is Art Brut's Eddie Argos' side project, and it's pretty sweet. A collection of songs that are responses to other songs (like "Coal Digger", a response to...you guessed it, Kanye's "Gold Digger"), the cd is good fun, and hopefully meant to be taken lightly. And for that, it's wildly enjoyable, because it's a hilarious concept (fixing the charts?!) that's done well, and backed up by actual musical abilities. The songs are catchy and unpretentious; start with tracks 2, 5, and 10.
Ben Fuller
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Ben Fuller
Album: Aquarian Son
Label: Self-released
Genre: Pop/Rock
Comments: Ben Fuller has crafted a pretty neat EP with "Aquarian Son", which is his debut release. Drawing on his experiences traveling the globe, Fuller's songs are all miniature stories with distinct musical styles, giving the collection an interesting vibe---the first song, "Ashes" is mellow, with somewhat of a folk vibe, while the next track "Handsome Loser" is a more beat-driven, drums and guitar song. Overall, the mellowed out rock makes for a pleasant, straightforward EP.
Artist: Ben Fuller
Album: Aquarian Son
Label: Self-released
Genre: Pop/Rock
Comments: Ben Fuller has crafted a pretty neat EP with "Aquarian Son", which is his debut release. Drawing on his experiences traveling the globe, Fuller's songs are all miniature stories with distinct musical styles, giving the collection an interesting vibe---the first song, "Ashes" is mellow, with somewhat of a folk vibe, while the next track "Handsome Loser" is a more beat-driven, drums and guitar song. Overall, the mellowed out rock makes for a pleasant, straightforward EP.
Massive Attack
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Massive Attack
Album: Heligoland
Label: Virgin
Genre: Electronica
Comments: British production duo Massive Attack are back with a pretty fabulous album after 7 years without a release. The record has a slightly more focused sound, but their style is still bass-heavy and moody, with precise electronic manipulations and an interesting use of loops and repetition. The guest-list is impressive: "Pray for Rain", the title track--and one of the best on the album, combining minor-key piano notes with standard, heavy beats--features TV on the Radio's Tunde Adebimpe, and other guests include Damon Albarn (Blur, Gorillaz), Hope Sandoval (Mazzy Star), and Guy Garvey (Elbow), among others. The vocals all tend to blend in seamlessly with the production around them, so that no one element overpowers the others, resulting in a layered but far from dense sound. Massive Attack, welcome back--start with tracks 1, 3, 7, and 9.
Artist: Massive Attack
Album: Heligoland
Label: Virgin
Genre: Electronica
Comments: British production duo Massive Attack are back with a pretty fabulous album after 7 years without a release. The record has a slightly more focused sound, but their style is still bass-heavy and moody, with precise electronic manipulations and an interesting use of loops and repetition. The guest-list is impressive: "Pray for Rain", the title track--and one of the best on the album, combining minor-key piano notes with standard, heavy beats--features TV on the Radio's Tunde Adebimpe, and other guests include Damon Albarn (Blur, Gorillaz), Hope Sandoval (Mazzy Star), and Guy Garvey (Elbow), among others. The vocals all tend to blend in seamlessly with the production around them, so that no one element overpowers the others, resulting in a layered but far from dense sound. Massive Attack, welcome back--start with tracks 1, 3, 7, and 9.
Ten Feet Deep
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Ten Feet Deep
Album: Ten Feet Deep
Label: Rubber Soldier Music
Genre: Rock
Comments: Ten Feet Deep's self-released record is a solid, upfront rock production: the guys began playing together over 10 years ago in high-school, and you can tell in the music--it sounds well-developed and comfortable. Mainstream radio friendly, it's catchy and rhymthic music supplemented by some strong vocals and harmonies.
Artist: Ten Feet Deep
Album: Ten Feet Deep
Label: Rubber Soldier Music
Genre: Rock
Comments: Ten Feet Deep's self-released record is a solid, upfront rock production: the guys began playing together over 10 years ago in high-school, and you can tell in the music--it sounds well-developed and comfortable. Mainstream radio friendly, it's catchy and rhymthic music supplemented by some strong vocals and harmonies.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Lightspeed Champion
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Lightspeed Champion
Album: Life is Sweet! Nice to Meet You
Label: Domino
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Life is Sweet! Nice to Meet You, the second Lightspeed Champion long player, is an unassumingly epic collection of 12 pop songs, two instrumental intermissions, and one piano etude, bound together by a sense of longing so piquant that the listener, after listening, can't easily stifly the sense that he himself is on the verge of some major transition, for better or for worse (though for all its self-consciousness, tehre's something fundamentally optimistic-- even eager-- abotu Lightspeed Champion's anxiety over change).
"The record is bristling with pleas and temporary resignations and oaths of loyalty and promises to improve, all of which are built so consistently into the lyrics and melodies and rhythms that one is utterly convinced of their sincerity, utterly convinced that one has been given an unfiltered look at the mental, even logistic state of the composer during the album's construction."
Thoughtful, well-instrumented pop for fans of Sea Wolf, Jens Lekman or The Decemberists. Listen to "Faculty of Fears" or "There's Nothing Underwater."
AAM
Artist: Lightspeed Champion
Album: Life is Sweet! Nice to Meet You
Label: Domino
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Life is Sweet! Nice to Meet You, the second Lightspeed Champion long player, is an unassumingly epic collection of 12 pop songs, two instrumental intermissions, and one piano etude, bound together by a sense of longing so piquant that the listener, after listening, can't easily stifly the sense that he himself is on the verge of some major transition, for better or for worse (though for all its self-consciousness, tehre's something fundamentally optimistic-- even eager-- abotu Lightspeed Champion's anxiety over change).
"The record is bristling with pleas and temporary resignations and oaths of loyalty and promises to improve, all of which are built so consistently into the lyrics and melodies and rhythms that one is utterly convinced of their sincerity, utterly convinced that one has been given an unfiltered look at the mental, even logistic state of the composer during the album's construction."
Thoughtful, well-instrumented pop for fans of Sea Wolf, Jens Lekman or The Decemberists. Listen to "Faculty of Fears" or "There's Nothing Underwater."
AAM
Phantogram
Add Date: February 9
Artist: Phantogram
Album: Eyelid Moves
Label: Barsuk
Genre: Pop, Shoegaze, Electronic
Comments: From the promoter:
"Eyelid Moves sounds like the work of a band from the city. Electronic loops, hip-hop beats, shoegaze, soul, and pop interweave their way into Phantogram's songs. Unexpectedly the band resides in the town of Saratoga Springs, NY (population, a mere 26,186). ... The band references dreams when describing both the lyrics and sonics of their own music, and the process ofmaking it: 'Daydreams, the spots you see moving around when your eyes are closed tight, and the shapes you see in the world-- those are the kinds of things we want to surface in your mind when you hear a Phantogram song.' Hard to say from song to song whether the dreams are entirely pleasant or nightmarish, bleak or bright. But the music is certainly vivd and exciting-- springing as it does from an unpredictable mix of technological and organic roots."
At times sounding something like Postal Service or old Moby, Phantogram is worth a shot. While the album starts to drag by track 5 or 6, as the songs either get too loose or too mixed up in hip-hop beats, I found the first few tracks very enjoyable. Listen to the pretty, shoegazey "Mouthful or Diamonds."
Distiller
Artist: Phantogram
Album: Eyelid Moves
Label: Barsuk
Genre: Pop, Shoegaze, Electronic
Comments: From the promoter:
"Eyelid Moves sounds like the work of a band from the city. Electronic loops, hip-hop beats, shoegaze, soul, and pop interweave their way into Phantogram's songs. Unexpectedly the band resides in the town of Saratoga Springs, NY (population, a mere 26,186). ... The band references dreams when describing both the lyrics and sonics of their own music, and the process ofmaking it: 'Daydreams, the spots you see moving around when your eyes are closed tight, and the shapes you see in the world-- those are the kinds of things we want to surface in your mind when you hear a Phantogram song.' Hard to say from song to song whether the dreams are entirely pleasant or nightmarish, bleak or bright. But the music is certainly vivd and exciting-- springing as it does from an unpredictable mix of technological and organic roots."
At times sounding something like Postal Service or old Moby, Phantogram is worth a shot. While the album starts to drag by track 5 or 6, as the songs either get too loose or too mixed up in hip-hop beats, I found the first few tracks very enjoyable. Listen to the pretty, shoegazey "Mouthful or Diamonds."
Distiller
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Best of the Week - February 2
Faithful readers, here's what's good:
Yeasayer
Charlotte Gainsbourg
Toro Y Moi
RJD2
Smile Smile
Be sure to check out: Dan Black, Shaw, V.V. Brown
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Swamp Cabbage
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Swamp Cabbage
Album: Squel
Label: Zoho Roots
Genre: Country/Rock/Blues/Funk
Comments: Described as playing "a raspy singin' combo of fatback blues and trailer park funk", Swamp Cabbage (hailing from Jacksonville, FL) is a band that blends country, blues, funk and rock into a totally groove-heavy southern rock sound that is truly their own. Their "electric ragtime sound is a raunchy foot-stompin' tip of the hat to Tom Waits, Billy Gibbons and Dr John"---the raspy vocals are there, along with the blues-y bass and guitar, and the result is some great, gritty 'country' music (in the broadest sense) that's pretty toe-tapping and, quite simply, fun.
Artist: Swamp Cabbage
Album: Squel
Label: Zoho Roots
Genre: Country/Rock/Blues/Funk
Comments: Described as playing "a raspy singin' combo of fatback blues and trailer park funk", Swamp Cabbage (hailing from Jacksonville, FL) is a band that blends country, blues, funk and rock into a totally groove-heavy southern rock sound that is truly their own. Their "electric ragtime sound is a raunchy foot-stompin' tip of the hat to Tom Waits, Billy Gibbons and Dr John"---the raspy vocals are there, along with the blues-y bass and guitar, and the result is some great, gritty 'country' music (in the broadest sense) that's pretty toe-tapping and, quite simply, fun.
Akai
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Akai
Album: The Coldest Hour (Is Just Before the Dawn)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Indie-rock
Comments: Akai's self-released album, The Coldest Hour (Is Just Before the Dawn) is a solid indie-rock album, full of a variety of instruments and alternating male-and-female vocals. The variety in the instrumentals and vocals is never jarring; instead, the album is full of smooth, never-sparse tracks that all have slightly different perspectives and focuses ("Drifted" is guitar and drum happy, whereas "Morning Follows Night" features a great trumpet line). The record is consistent in the layering of sound, and well worth a listen.
Bear Hands
Add Date: January 2
Artist: Bear Hands
Album: What a Drag (single)
Label: Cantora
Genre: Rock
Comments: Short but sweet, this single from Brooklyn-based band Bear Hands is a catchy, rhythmic tune--pretty upfront. From Planetary: " What a Drag is their first recording using a keyboard, lending the band's already addictive rhythm section an even more New Order-esque sound. With it's induced tribal stomping drum beat, reverb heavy guitars, driving bass and Dylan's soulful falsetto drop ins, "What a Drag" contains one of the strongest hooks that you'll be hard pressed to shake out of your head". Also on the single is a Cale Parks remix (pretty awesome) and a b-side track "Can't Stick Em" (with a sweet bassline).
Artist: Bear Hands
Album: What a Drag (single)
Label: Cantora
Genre: Rock
Comments: Short but sweet, this single from Brooklyn-based band Bear Hands is a catchy, rhythmic tune--pretty upfront. From Planetary: " What a Drag is their first recording using a keyboard, lending the band's already addictive rhythm section an even more New Order-esque sound. With it's induced tribal stomping drum beat, reverb heavy guitars, driving bass and Dylan's soulful falsetto drop ins, "What a Drag" contains one of the strongest hooks that you'll be hard pressed to shake out of your head". Also on the single is a Cale Parks remix (pretty awesome) and a b-side track "Can't Stick Em" (with a sweet bassline).
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Smile Smile
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Smile Smile
Album: Truth on Tape
Label: Kirtland
Genre: Acoustic
Comments: I may like this album's backstory more than I like the album itself--a boyfriend/girlfriend band continue making honest music about love even after a breakup. However, the tracks on Truth on Tape are sincere songs about loss, showcasing the singers' vulnerability against acoustic guitar, piano, and organ. For fans of Death Cab for Cutie-style lamentation.
Artist: Smile Smile
Album: Truth on Tape
Label: Kirtland
Genre: Acoustic
Comments: I may like this album's backstory more than I like the album itself--a boyfriend/girlfriend band continue making honest music about love even after a breakup. However, the tracks on Truth on Tape are sincere songs about loss, showcasing the singers' vulnerability against acoustic guitar, piano, and organ. For fans of Death Cab for Cutie-style lamentation.
The Van Gobots
Add Date: February 2
Artist: The Van Gobots
Album: Guantanamo Beach Party
Label: Self-released
Genre: Post-punk/Screamo
Comments: I was pretty excited about this record, to be honest. Post-punk? Political Attacks? A catchy album name? Man, maybe this will be like the Gang of Four for the next generation!
Yeah, it's not. Granted, there's some catchy guitar hooks and a not exactly horrible singing voice, but this is post-punk more in the modern vein, which means less clever exploration of the punk genre and more adding pop sensibilities into a watered down hardcore mixture. Some of the lyrics, which have been praised as clever and witty by the Onion's AV club, were honestly pretty cringe inducing (we're talking Green Day levels of obvious anti-war commentary).
Artist: The Van Gobots
Album: Guantanamo Beach Party
Label: Self-released
Genre: Post-punk/Screamo
Comments: I was pretty excited about this record, to be honest. Post-punk? Political Attacks? A catchy album name? Man, maybe this will be like the Gang of Four for the next generation!
Yeah, it's not. Granted, there's some catchy guitar hooks and a not exactly horrible singing voice, but this is post-punk more in the modern vein, which means less clever exploration of the punk genre and more adding pop sensibilities into a watered down hardcore mixture. Some of the lyrics, which have been praised as clever and witty by the Onion's AV club, were honestly pretty cringe inducing (we're talking Green Day levels of obvious anti-war commentary).
Bern Kelly
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Bern Kelly
Album: The Damage
Label: Underpass
Genre: Rock
Comments: On many of the songs on The Damage, Bern Kelly does his best Ryan Adams impression -- occasionally wandering rock songs, vocals that waver between crooning and howling, and singing about love and such nonsense. Kelly's tunes succeed for their catchiness, but they might not change your life. When he announces "I feel I already wrote this song twenty or thirty times before" on "Your Secret Too," it's a little too real. Check out "Marjorie."
Artist: Bern Kelly
Album: The Damage
Label: Underpass
Genre: Rock
Comments: On many of the songs on The Damage, Bern Kelly does his best Ryan Adams impression -- occasionally wandering rock songs, vocals that waver between crooning and howling, and singing about love and such nonsense. Kelly's tunes succeed for their catchiness, but they might not change your life. When he announces "I feel I already wrote this song twenty or thirty times before" on "Your Secret Too," it's a little too real. Check out "Marjorie."
Sokoband
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Sokoband
Album: Sokoband
Label: Breezeway
Genre: Jazz
Comments: Seventy-three minutes of crisp and classy jazz from this veteran Charlottesville trio. These players essentially crafted this album in the mid-nineties and released it as In November Sunlight, but after after going their separate ways for awhile, the members of Sokoband refashioned those tunes and added a couple more. Tracks range from sunny up-tempo fusion ("Coast to Coast") to rock-infused ballads ("Lullaby for E"), with at least one incredible drum solo to boot ("Energy Changed"). Dave Matthews, LeRoi Moore, Tim Reynolds, and David Darling guest star, among a whole host of others.
Artist: Sokoband
Album: Sokoband
Label: Breezeway
Genre: Jazz
Comments: Seventy-three minutes of crisp and classy jazz from this veteran Charlottesville trio. These players essentially crafted this album in the mid-nineties and released it as In November Sunlight, but after after going their separate ways for awhile, the members of Sokoband refashioned those tunes and added a couple more. Tracks range from sunny up-tempo fusion ("Coast to Coast") to rock-infused ballads ("Lullaby for E"), with at least one incredible drum solo to boot ("Energy Changed"). Dave Matthews, LeRoi Moore, Tim Reynolds, and David Darling guest star, among a whole host of others.
Monday, February 1, 2010
RJD2
Add Date: February 2
Artist: RJD2
Album: The Colossus
Label: RJ's Electrical Connections
Genre: Electronica, Hip Hop
Comments: I must shamefully admit that I had never heard of RJD2 before this album, which means I can't do a before-after kind of review, so forgive me. From what I understand from the promoter, this is his fourth album (and the first released independently) and it combines his old style (a focus on instrumentals) with his love for rap and hip hop. I'm more of a fan of the purely instrumental parts/tracks but that's just a matter of personal preference for the genre. I'd recommend 4, 7 and 10.
Artist: RJD2
Album: The Colossus
Label: RJ's Electrical Connections
Genre: Electronica, Hip Hop
Comments: I must shamefully admit that I had never heard of RJD2 before this album, which means I can't do a before-after kind of review, so forgive me. From what I understand from the promoter, this is his fourth album (and the first released independently) and it combines his old style (a focus on instrumentals) with his love for rap and hip hop. I'm more of a fan of the purely instrumental parts/tracks but that's just a matter of personal preference for the genre. I'd recommend 4, 7 and 10.
Glimr
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Glimr
Album: Faith of Our Fathers
Label: 10GeV
Genre: Rock
Comments: On their MySpace page, Glimr members say their "only goal is to try to make all of it work together into something coherent that twists our minds but still rocks." They didn't twist my mind, but maybe they'll twist yours, if you're into harsher rock played by a bunch of guys with slightly disturbing voices. My favorite track is an instrumental one (#5) but do give a listen to #7 as well (but do not play it on air) if you're interested to see how scientists-turned-musicians sound like.
Artist: Glimr
Album: Faith of Our Fathers
Label: 10GeV
Genre: Rock
Comments: On their MySpace page, Glimr members say their "only goal is to try to make all of it work together into something coherent that twists our minds but still rocks." They didn't twist my mind, but maybe they'll twist yours, if you're into harsher rock played by a bunch of guys with slightly disturbing voices. My favorite track is an instrumental one (#5) but do give a listen to #7 as well (but do not play it on air) if you're interested to see how scientists-turned-musicians sound like.
Toro Y Moi
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Toro Y Moi
Album: Causers of This
Label: Carpark
Genre: Electronica, Psychedelica
Comments: Terrorbird: The incendiary power of Toro Y Moi's funky synth and guitar play, pumping digital rhythms and gorgeously bright vocal harmonies makes for a formidable combination.
This album takes you from an "I-just-want-to-chill"-mood to an "I-just-want-to-dance" one so smoothly that you don't even realize when this transition has taken place, you just do it. Think Beach House, Daft Punk and Passion Pit with a twist of "je ne sais quoi" that catches you off-guard. Definitely go to 1, 8 and 10 but do listen to the whole album when you get a chance.
Artist: Toro Y Moi
Album: Causers of This
Label: Carpark
Genre: Electronica, Psychedelica
Comments: Terrorbird: The incendiary power of Toro Y Moi's funky synth and guitar play, pumping digital rhythms and gorgeously bright vocal harmonies makes for a formidable combination.
This album takes you from an "I-just-want-to-chill"-mood to an "I-just-want-to-dance" one so smoothly that you don't even realize when this transition has taken place, you just do it. Think Beach House, Daft Punk and Passion Pit with a twist of "je ne sais quoi" that catches you off-guard. Definitely go to 1, 8 and 10 but do listen to the whole album when you get a chance.
Charlotte Gainsbourg
Add Date: 2/2/2010
Artist: Charlotte Gainsbourg
Album: IRM
Label: Elektra
Genre: Electro-pop (sometime en francais)
Comments: Charlotte, je t'adore, but then again who doesn't love French songstress-actresses? IRM, an album written about a close-to-fatal water-skiing accident, is certainly no disappointment--produced, written, and mixed by Beck, the record is chock-full of great pop songs. At times the tracks are light on production and heavy on intimate vocals, at other times, the substantial, beat-driven drum and bass give the song its backbone (for example on the title track). The production of Beck adds a lot to the record (as did AIR's production on her sophmore album) in terms of complexity and the overall finished quality, but you still manage to appreciate Gainsbourg's vocals for their own quiet strength. Given Beck's total presence (although not always visible), IRM should be counted more as a collaboration, but it is certainly a great one.
Artist: Charlotte Gainsbourg
Album: IRM
Label: Elektra
Genre: Electro-pop (sometime en francais)
Comments: Charlotte, je t'adore, but then again who doesn't love French songstress-actresses? IRM, an album written about a close-to-fatal water-skiing accident, is certainly no disappointment--produced, written, and mixed by Beck, the record is chock-full of great pop songs. At times the tracks are light on production and heavy on intimate vocals, at other times, the substantial, beat-driven drum and bass give the song its backbone (for example on the title track). The production of Beck adds a lot to the record (as did AIR's production on her sophmore album) in terms of complexity and the overall finished quality, but you still manage to appreciate Gainsbourg's vocals for their own quiet strength. Given Beck's total presence (although not always visible), IRM should be counted more as a collaboration, but it is certainly a great one.
Dan Black
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Dan Black
Album: ((Un))
Label: The Hours
Genre: Electro-pop
Comments: British electronica artist Dan Black's release "((un))" is a really well-crafted electro-pop album: he manages to blend dance-esque tracks and slower tunes in a non-clunky manner, using both hip-hop beats and synths to great success. Overall, ((un)) is a lovely medley of dance-frinedly beats and melodic vocals, moving from slower, sweeping tracks like "Symphonies" to more upbeat tracks like "Alone" with ease. Super precise and well-delievered; if you've been into Hot Chip and Passion Pit recently then definitely take a listen.
Artist: Dan Black
Album: ((Un))
Label: The Hours
Genre: Electro-pop
Comments: British electronica artist Dan Black's release "((un))" is a really well-crafted electro-pop album: he manages to blend dance-esque tracks and slower tunes in a non-clunky manner, using both hip-hop beats and synths to great success. Overall, ((un)) is a lovely medley of dance-frinedly beats and melodic vocals, moving from slower, sweeping tracks like "Symphonies" to more upbeat tracks like "Alone" with ease. Super precise and well-delievered; if you've been into Hot Chip and Passion Pit recently then definitely take a listen.
Shaw
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Shaw
Album: Pretending We're Not Animals
Label: Swordfish
Genre: Rock/Pop
Comments: The first few seconds of Pretending We're Not Animals prompted me to think "Oh no, not another production-heavy guitarist with a drum machine." But rest-assured the rest of the album disproved these worries. In fact, part of the appeal of the album is that Shaw Walters pulls off what many others have tried so well. Mr. Walters' began as a producer before venturing off to write and self-produce his own beast of sorts.
The songs are full of layered synths, huge drum machines (that are far from being overdone as they often can be), interesting rhythms and powerful melodies. The producer-turned-musician certainly keeps technology on his side with a range of effective and appropriate effects on the many layers that fill these songs. These vocal melodies serve as the focal point of the album's hooks and ring similar to the singing of Doug Martsch (of Built to Spill) or Ben Gibbard (of Death Cab for Cutie). Shaw's lyrics are insightful and poetic, giving imagery and metaphors worth cringing, smiling, crying and/or laughing over. Even the album artwork is put-it-up-in-your-room-poster-worthy. Wrapping things up with just 5 tracks, and one cover thrown in there, I am personally looking forward to more of Shaw in the future. Start with tracks 1, 2, and 4.
Twilight Broadcast
Add Date: February 2
Artist: Twilight Broadcast
Album: Variety Show
Label: Tiny Hawk
Genre: Rock, Pop
Comments: Variety Show is Twilight Broadcast's first full-length release. This is definitely an accessible pop album with ultra-polished and clear production. From the promoter: "The record, aptly titled Variety Show, contains 14 songs which showcase not only their craftsmanship as songwriters but also the breadth of genres in which they feel at home." The album is certainly unpredictable in terms what you'll hear in the next song. The vocals, although somewhat thin, are always on key. The music contrasts the frail vocals by being full of horns, strings, and interesting bass lines which is nice. With regard to specific genres, I'd place this album in the post-rock, indie pop rock category amongst bands like Jimmy Eat World and Fastball. In the end, I am trying my hardest to not call this album generic. But on the positive, there are a few tracks worth checking out. Start with 9, 7, 3, and 2. DNP 8
Artist: Twilight Broadcast
Album: Variety Show
Label: Tiny Hawk
Genre: Rock, Pop
Comments: Variety Show is Twilight Broadcast's first full-length release. This is definitely an accessible pop album with ultra-polished and clear production. From the promoter: "The record, aptly titled Variety Show, contains 14 songs which showcase not only their craftsmanship as songwriters but also the breadth of genres in which they feel at home." The album is certainly unpredictable in terms what you'll hear in the next song. The vocals, although somewhat thin, are always on key. The music contrasts the frail vocals by being full of horns, strings, and interesting bass lines which is nice. With regard to specific genres, I'd place this album in the post-rock, indie pop rock category amongst bands like Jimmy Eat World and Fastball. In the end, I am trying my hardest to not call this album generic. But on the positive, there are a few tracks worth checking out. Start with 9, 7, 3, and 2. DNP 8
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