A plethora of great new adds for this week and last. Here are those worth paying particular attention to:
From April 27:
The Living Sisters
First Aid Kit
The Whitsundays
Carnivores
Brad Senne
From April 20:
Caribou
Sam Amidon
The Pack a.d.
Blunt Mechanic
Horse Feathers
Also worth a mention: Dosh, Downbeat Project, Nada Surf, Plants and Animals, Sharon Jones, Emily Jane White, Typhoon, The Lodger, The Radio Dept.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
First Aid Kit
Add Date: April 27
Artist: First Aid Kit
Album: The Big Black & The Blue
Label: Wichita
Genre: Folk
Comments: Finally, First Aid Kit have an album! The duo, made up of Swedish sisters Johanna and Klara Soderberg, are probably familiar to many Fleet Foxes fans who have ever searched "Tiger Mountain Peasant Song" on YouTube--the duo's cover is the first result, with over a million views. Sadly, that track isn't included on the sister's debut, but the album more than delivers. It's vocal heavy folk, with some slightly instrumentation that only serves to highlight said vocals, and for good reason--their voices and harmonies are phenomenal (PHENOMENAL) and the oftentimes wistful folk they sing is a perfect fit. Try tracks 1, 2, 5, and 10.
And if you haven't already heard it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMrqBldlqzA
Artist: First Aid Kit
Album: The Big Black & The Blue
Label: Wichita
Genre: Folk
Comments: Finally, First Aid Kit have an album! The duo, made up of Swedish sisters Johanna and Klara Soderberg, are probably familiar to many Fleet Foxes fans who have ever searched "Tiger Mountain Peasant Song" on YouTube--the duo's cover is the first result, with over a million views. Sadly, that track isn't included on the sister's debut, but the album more than delivers. It's vocal heavy folk, with some slightly instrumentation that only serves to highlight said vocals, and for good reason--their voices and harmonies are phenomenal (PHENOMENAL) and the oftentimes wistful folk they sing is a perfect fit. Try tracks 1, 2, 5, and 10.
And if you haven't already heard it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMrqBldlqzA
Carnivores
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Carnivores
Album: All Night Dead USA
Label: Double Phantom
Genre: Garage Rock/Lo-Fi/Psych/Experimental
Comments: Carnivores' All Night Dead USA is phenomenal. A blend of "psychedelia, punk, lounge and lo-fi tropicalia all at once", the record is experimental while still being enjoyable. Fader says "...like coming up on a ramshackle garage, going inside and discovering every wall painted in tropical colors and a bunch of dudes throwing flowers all over the place. Good vibes hidden behind a rough exterior". Distortion abounds as does heavy instrumentation, samples and warped vocals, and the end result is really textural, in both the quieter moments and when frantic energy abounds. Try tracks 1, 4, 9 and 10.
Free Electric State
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Free Electric State
Album: Caress
Label: Churchkey
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Conceived in the musical hotbed of Durham, NC, Free Electric State draws from shoegaze and noise rock to create a dark, velvety wash of sound...on their debut LP, Caress, Free Electric State wraps listeners in a tense yet comforting embrace...Often big, often lush, the group's engrossing sound is generated by guitarists Koslowsky and Williams' wall of blissfully dense guitarss, while drummer Tony Stiglitz steadily pounds out heavy, driving rhythms. Singer/bassist Shirle Hale's mourful voice adds a somber element to her dark and often impressionistic lyrics of loss, lust and regret".
The instrumentation is solid and aptly described, but there's an element of your traditional heavy-rock style which slightly limits how interesting the vocals are and how the song could be constructed. It's RIYL "Liars," but the vaguely traditional take on heavy noise stops it from being a totally apt comparison. With that said, certain tracks are more than solid and quite interesting: check out 3, and 5.
Walter Schreifels
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Walter Schreifels
Artist: Walter Schreifels
Album: An Open Letter to the Scene
Label: Academy Fight Song
Genre: Pop-Rock
Comments: Gorilla Biscuts singer and lyricist Walter Schreifels has come out with his own record, titled An Open Letter to the Scene. It's a surprisingly pop record (not what you would expect from a guy involved in one of the pre-eminent bands in the hardcore straight-edge scene), but it really works in Schreifel's case--he plays all the instruments, and is able to write songs such as "The Ballad of Lil' Kim" without making it overly ridiculous. "An Open Letter to the Scene" also features two covers, one of Agnostic Front's "Society Suckers" and the other of CIV's "Don't Gotta Prove It", and overall the album is a solid pop undertaking, with a depth to both the lyrics and the insturmentation that stop it from being too sweet or too standard. Start with tracks 1, 3, 7, and 9 for good measure.
Batusis
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Batusis
Artist: Batusis
Album: Batusis [EP]
Label: Smog Veil
Genre: Rock
Comments: What do you get when you take punk-rock & glam legends Sylvain Sylvain from the New York Dolls, and Cheetah Chrome from the Dead Boys, and put them together to create an EP? Awesome, old-school rock that is an irresistably catchy throwback. The first track and last tracks show off the impressive guitar skills at work, and the shared vocals on the rest of the EP are a perfect fit to the rampant guitar riffs. If you're looking for instrumental try tracks 1 and 4; vocal, 2 and 3.
Against Me!
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Against Me!
Album: I Was A Teenage Anarchist (Single)
Label: Sire
Genre: Rock
Comments: Oh, Against Me!, how things have changed. The new single "I Was A Teenage Anarchist" off their forthcoming album is pure pop-punk rock, full of great hooks and a sing-a-long chorus, and it's certainly catchy (and good). But nothing is ever going to be as awesome as their old stuff (sorry, I know that's an obnoxious fan thing to say, but let's be honest) and while it doesn't necessarily seem like Against Me! has stopped trying or gotten terrible by any means, they've definitely grown past their less mature (but perhaps more authentic) punk style. Ironically enough, this title seems to even reference the fact that Against Me! has grown up, considering one of their most known and loved songs off of "Reinventing Axl Rose" is titled "Baby, I'm an Anarchist" ('cause baby, I'm an anarchist, you're a spineless liberaaaal). Ah, how times change. But for what it's worth, this track reaffirms that Against Me! are at least talented, no matter how much their style changes.
RIP http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlDadez9mqI
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
The Fall
Add Date: April 27
Artist: The Fall
Album: Your Future Our Clutter
Label: Domino
Genre: Rock, post-punk
Comments: With the release of Your Future Our Clutter, The Fall's recording lifespan now occupies parts of five decades. On the surface, it would seem difficult, if not damn near impossible, to still sound fresh and come up with new ideas after that long of a run. However, if you believe that's the case with The Fall, you'd be underestimating one of the greatest forces in post-punk and rock music. Mark E Smith is the only original member remaining (that's been the case for years now), and it's likely that none of the other current members were even born when the Manchester band released its first album, Live at the Witch Trials, in 1979. What that means is an infusion of fresh ideas, from Peter "PP" Greenway's driving guitar to Eleni Poulou's keyboards to Keiron Melling's percussion.
However, what always makes The Fall's music work is what AllMusic.com calls Smith's "snarling, nearly incomprehensible vocals and consuming bitter cynicism." Check out "O.F.Y.C. Showcase," "Weather Report 2," Wanda Jackson cover "Funnel of Love" and 8-minute epic "Y.F.O.C./Slippy Floor."
Artist: The Fall
Album: Your Future Our Clutter
Label: Domino
Genre: Rock, post-punk
Comments: With the release of Your Future Our Clutter, The Fall's recording lifespan now occupies parts of five decades. On the surface, it would seem difficult, if not damn near impossible, to still sound fresh and come up with new ideas after that long of a run. However, if you believe that's the case with The Fall, you'd be underestimating one of the greatest forces in post-punk and rock music. Mark E Smith is the only original member remaining (that's been the case for years now), and it's likely that none of the other current members were even born when the Manchester band released its first album, Live at the Witch Trials, in 1979. What that means is an infusion of fresh ideas, from Peter "PP" Greenway's driving guitar to Eleni Poulou's keyboards to Keiron Melling's percussion.
However, what always makes The Fall's music work is what AllMusic.com calls Smith's "snarling, nearly incomprehensible vocals and consuming bitter cynicism." Check out "O.F.Y.C. Showcase," "Weather Report 2," Wanda Jackson cover "Funnel of Love" and 8-minute epic "Y.F.O.C./Slippy Floor."
Frog Eyes
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Frog Eyes
Album: Paul's Tomb: A Triumph
Label: Dead Oceans
Genre: Rock, psych rock, post-punk
Comments: From the onesheet: "Frog Eyes are equally informed by Scott Walker and Roxy Music, Nuggets collections and the Everly Brothers. But in truth, Frog Eyes' recordings sound like nothing else but Frog Eyes... Singer/guitarist Carey Mercer's instantly recognizable howl is ever-present, soaring above the frenetic beats of drummer Melanie Campbell. Paul's Tomb: A Triumph is in the canon of 'two-guitar' records: the majestic shredding between Mercer and Ryan Beattie recalls everything from Neil Young/Danny Whitten's work on early Young recordings to Tom Verlaine and even, occasionally, Hendrix. The synths weave in and out of this buzzing wall of sound, and new Frog Eyes member Megan Boddy's sweet backing vocals are a kind of foil for Mercer's wail. Mercer's lyrics are a continuing refinement of warnings and prophecies, threats and terrors, and what he calls 'contrapuntal sharp blasts of hope.'"
For fans of Wolf Parade, Captain Beefheart, Pixies and Tom Waits. Start with "Rebel Horns" and "Lear in Love."
Artist: Frog Eyes
Album: Paul's Tomb: A Triumph
Label: Dead Oceans
Genre: Rock, psych rock, post-punk
Comments: From the onesheet: "Frog Eyes are equally informed by Scott Walker and Roxy Music, Nuggets collections and the Everly Brothers. But in truth, Frog Eyes' recordings sound like nothing else but Frog Eyes... Singer/guitarist Carey Mercer's instantly recognizable howl is ever-present, soaring above the frenetic beats of drummer Melanie Campbell. Paul's Tomb: A Triumph is in the canon of 'two-guitar' records: the majestic shredding between Mercer and Ryan Beattie recalls everything from Neil Young/Danny Whitten's work on early Young recordings to Tom Verlaine and even, occasionally, Hendrix. The synths weave in and out of this buzzing wall of sound, and new Frog Eyes member Megan Boddy's sweet backing vocals are a kind of foil for Mercer's wail. Mercer's lyrics are a continuing refinement of warnings and prophecies, threats and terrors, and what he calls 'contrapuntal sharp blasts of hope.'"
For fans of Wolf Parade, Captain Beefheart, Pixies and Tom Waits. Start with "Rebel Horns" and "Lear in Love."
Rachael Sage
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Rachael Sage
Album: Delancey Street
Label: MPress
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Delancey Street is the breathtaking new album from Independent Music Award winner Rachael Sage. Produced by Sage-- whose songs have been placed in the 2009 film 'FAME' and MTV's 'Taking the Stage' -- the album features inspired performances by Jack Petruzelli (Rufus Wainwright), Dave Eggar (Coldplay) and Russ Johnson (Elvis Costello). Delancey Street showcases Sage's innovative, keyboard-based alt-pop at a breakout moment in what Perfroming Songwriter calls a 'sexy, self-possessed and impressive' career."
For fans of Imogen Heap, Nellie McKay, and Ingrid Michaelson. Go to "Hope's Outpost."
Planetary/Powderfinger
For fans of Imogen Heap, Nellie McKay, and Ingrid Michaelson. Go to "Hope's Outpost."
Planetary/Powderfinger
Emily Jane White
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Emily Jane White
Album: Victorian America
Label: Milan
Genre: Folk
Comments: From the promoter:
"Dark folk, bordering on the gothic is the trademark of Emily Jane White. Her guitar is ethereal and her voice is decidedly eerie. This is an artist who is truly unique."
Emily Jane White's voice is so rich that I almost don't mind how repetitive this album gets. Listen to opener "Never Dead." For fans of Cat Power and Anna Ternheim.
Planetary
Emily Jane White's voice is so rich that I almost don't mind how repetitive this album gets. Listen to opener "Never Dead." For fans of Cat Power and Anna Ternheim.
Planetary
The Lodger
Add Date: April 27
Artist: The Lodger
Album: Flashbacks
Label: Slumberland
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: Perhaps the best thing to say about The Lodger, a three-piece from Leeds, is that they're a perfect fit for their record label. Slumberland is the champion of indie and twee pop--see The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, Black Tambourine, Pants Yell!, Summer Cats, etc., etc.--and Flashbacks, the band's third LP, fits right in. Start with "Have a Little Faith in People" and "The Back of My Mind."
Artist: The Lodger
Album: Flashbacks
Label: Slumberland
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: Perhaps the best thing to say about The Lodger, a three-piece from Leeds, is that they're a perfect fit for their record label. Slumberland is the champion of indie and twee pop--see The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, Black Tambourine, Pants Yell!, Summer Cats, etc., etc.--and Flashbacks, the band's third LP, fits right in. Start with "Have a Little Faith in People" and "The Back of My Mind."
Sally Seltmann
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Sally Seltmann
Album: Heart That's Pounding
Label: Arts & Crafts
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: Sunshiny indie pop from Sally Seltmann, the Australian artist who formerly recorded as New Buffalo, on this release for Arts & Crafts (Jason Collett, Broken Social Scene, Stars). Seltmann has worked with everyone from Feist--she co-wrote the smash "1234"--to Jens Lekman, and her music will appeal to fans of El Perro del Mar, Camera Obscura and The Concretes. Start with "Harmony to My Heartbeat," "On the Borderline" and "Dream About Changing."
Artist: Sally Seltmann
Album: Heart That's Pounding
Label: Arts & Crafts
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: Sunshiny indie pop from Sally Seltmann, the Australian artist who formerly recorded as New Buffalo, on this release for Arts & Crafts (Jason Collett, Broken Social Scene, Stars). Seltmann has worked with everyone from Feist--she co-wrote the smash "1234"--to Jens Lekman, and her music will appeal to fans of El Perro del Mar, Camera Obscura and The Concretes. Start with "Harmony to My Heartbeat," "On the Borderline" and "Dream About Changing."
Sugar & Gold
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Sugar & Gold
Album: Get Wet!
Label: Antenna Farm
Genre: Pop, Electro
Comments: From the promoter:
"With Get Wet!, the second album from San Francisco quintet Sugar & Gold, the band has turned in a complex yet celebratory pop record that represents a huge step forward from their disco-tinged debut. Their expanded palette includes elements of Electro, '80s R&B, New Wave Psychedelia, and German Minimalism, woven together in a framework of transcendent modern pop that is similar to tour mates Of Montreal and !!!. Make no mistake, Sugar & Gold are still bringing the grooves and party vibe the way no others can, but if you look closely, you might spot a tear or two on the dance floor this time around."
For fans of Calvin Harris, Of Montreal, and Michael Jackson. Check out "Stay Soft" and "Sneek Freq."
Terrorbird
For fans of Calvin Harris, Of Montreal, and Michael Jackson. Check out "Stay Soft" and "Sneek Freq."
Terrorbird
Flugente
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Flugente
Album: 2
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk
Comments: From the promoter (Beehive Candy):
"Flugente, the solo project from former The Blam frontman Jerry Adler, has just released his second album Flugente 2. This is stripped down and raw where the musical focus is on unadorned Americana, a captivating blend of folk, alt-country, and pop. If you like anyone from Bob Dylan to Lucinda Williams, I think there might be a place in your collection for this guy. Continuing the narrative that traces a path from Woodie Guthrie through modern day artists such as The Felice Brothers, Flugente is a testament to just how far American acoustic music has come as we enter the second decade of the 21st century. With strikingly poetic lyrics; captivating, almost whispered harmonies; and twanging fingerpicked guitar, I have to say this guy deserves a lot of attention."
For fans of early Bob Dylan or Conor Oberst. Listen to "It's Not Just the Summer That Is Ending" or "I Can't Wait Anymore."
Pirate!
For fans of early Bob Dylan or Conor Oberst. Listen to "It's Not Just the Summer That Is Ending" or "I Can't Wait Anymore."
Pirate!
Monday, April 26, 2010
The Whitsundays
Add Date: April 27
Artist: The Whitsundays
Album: Saul
Label: Friendly Fire
Genre: Rock, Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Out from the cold and back into out hearts come the return of The Whitsundays. After a frigid winter in Alberta, Paul Arnusch [Faunts] has emerged with Saul. Rather that building on the band's previous 60's influenced album, this album reignites its sound as a much darker, much stranger, exploration into jangly pop and vintage psychedelia."
Vintage-tinged noisy strangeness with a decided pop feel. For fans of David Bowie, James Husband or Ariel Pink. Check out psych-pop number "You Fell For It" or the crazier "I Can't Get Off My Cloud."
Terrorbird
Artist: The Whitsundays
Album: Saul
Label: Friendly Fire
Genre: Rock, Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Out from the cold and back into out hearts come the return of The Whitsundays. After a frigid winter in Alberta, Paul Arnusch [Faunts] has emerged with Saul. Rather that building on the band's previous 60's influenced album, this album reignites its sound as a much darker, much stranger, exploration into jangly pop and vintage psychedelia."
Vintage-tinged noisy strangeness with a decided pop feel. For fans of David Bowie, James Husband or Ariel Pink. Check out psych-pop number "You Fell For It" or the crazier "I Can't Get Off My Cloud."
Terrorbird
Cuff the Duke
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Cuff the Duke
Album: Way Down Here
Label: Ernest Jenning Record Co
Genre: Alt-Country
Comments: From the promoter:
"From the ethereal pulse of the lap steel guitar that gently resonates throughout Cuff the Duke's latest album Way Down Here, you might think the band is one of Nashville's hottest new country acts. The truth is, Cuff the Duke hail from Ontario and, like fellow countryman Neil Young, they infuse the spirit of classic Americana into their own distinct musical language. Angelic vocal harmonies and sweetly plucked string arrangements accentuate the sepia-toned songs of Way Down Here, helping ot make it a sparkling slice of alt-country that draws from the roots music influenced classic rock of the 1970's as much as contemporary darlings Elliott Smith & Wilco."
Check out "Follow Me" or "You Were Right." For fans of Old Crow Medicine Show, Ryan Bingham and Wilco.
Artist: Cuff the Duke
Album: Way Down Here
Label: Ernest Jenning Record Co
Genre: Alt-Country
Comments: From the promoter:
"From the ethereal pulse of the lap steel guitar that gently resonates throughout Cuff the Duke's latest album Way Down Here, you might think the band is one of Nashville's hottest new country acts. The truth is, Cuff the Duke hail from Ontario and, like fellow countryman Neil Young, they infuse the spirit of classic Americana into their own distinct musical language. Angelic vocal harmonies and sweetly plucked string arrangements accentuate the sepia-toned songs of Way Down Here, helping ot make it a sparkling slice of alt-country that draws from the roots music influenced classic rock of the 1970's as much as contemporary darlings Elliott Smith & Wilco."
Check out "Follow Me" or "You Were Right." For fans of Old Crow Medicine Show, Ryan Bingham and Wilco.
Unnatural Helpers
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Unnatural Helpers
Album: Cracked Love & Other Drugs
Label: Hardly Art
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"The Unnatural Helpers have been banging around Seattle for a few years now... Despite the myriad lineup changes over the years, the band has managed to retain and expand on its original sound in a steady and cohesive way-- anyone who has witnessed the live show over the years will be well familiar with the band's taut, muscular guitar-rock, driven by Dean Whitmore's whip-tight drumming and usually caustic, often self-deprecating vocals. Oh, and the songs are always short. Very short.
"Cracked Love is 15 songs that conflict and compliment, in just over 25 minutes. Ricocheting between broken and twisted relationships, mock fatalist wink nodage, knucklehead party racket, absurd isolationist paranoia and open book love-letter sap-crap with the prevailing sentiment being summarily diffused just before it has gone too far. This push and pull of friction along with great pop sensibilities and good old fashioned rock & roll KRAANG is in the end what makes Cracked Love such an intriguing, appealing listen."
For fans of The Ramones, Eagles of Death Metal, and Autolux. Go to "Sunshine/Pretty Girls."
AAM
Artist: Unnatural Helpers
Album: Cracked Love & Other Drugs
Label: Hardly Art
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"The Unnatural Helpers have been banging around Seattle for a few years now... Despite the myriad lineup changes over the years, the band has managed to retain and expand on its original sound in a steady and cohesive way-- anyone who has witnessed the live show over the years will be well familiar with the band's taut, muscular guitar-rock, driven by Dean Whitmore's whip-tight drumming and usually caustic, often self-deprecating vocals. Oh, and the songs are always short. Very short.
"Cracked Love is 15 songs that conflict and compliment, in just over 25 minutes. Ricocheting between broken and twisted relationships, mock fatalist wink nodage, knucklehead party racket, absurd isolationist paranoia and open book love-letter sap-crap with the prevailing sentiment being summarily diffused just before it has gone too far. This push and pull of friction along with great pop sensibilities and good old fashioned rock & roll KRAANG is in the end what makes Cracked Love such an intriguing, appealing listen."
For fans of The Ramones, Eagles of Death Metal, and Autolux. Go to "Sunshine/Pretty Girls."
AAM
Typhoon
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Typhoon
Album: Hunger & Thirst
Label: Tender Loving Empire
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Kyle Morton sings the first line of Typhoon's Hunger & Thirst, 'I've started a new beginning... suspiciously like the old one, only this time, I'm ready,' with the bravery and trepidation of someone who is staring down a familiar path, with all its known challenges and potential pitfalls, surrounded by his dearest longtime friends. It's just one of beautiful moments that stretch for miles on Typhoon's luminous Hunger & Thirst. ... Typhoon is magnetic, stunning, hypnotic, subdued in their visceral grandeur."
Powerful, beautiful, thoughtful pop. For fans of Frightened Rabbit, Chad VanGaalen, and Okkervil River. Listen to "CPR/Claws PT2" or "Starting Over."
Artist: Typhoon
Album: Hunger & Thirst
Label: Tender Loving Empire
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Kyle Morton sings the first line of Typhoon's Hunger & Thirst, 'I've started a new beginning... suspiciously like the old one, only this time, I'm ready,' with the bravery and trepidation of someone who is staring down a familiar path, with all its known challenges and potential pitfalls, surrounded by his dearest longtime friends. It's just one of beautiful moments that stretch for miles on Typhoon's luminous Hunger & Thirst. ... Typhoon is magnetic, stunning, hypnotic, subdued in their visceral grandeur."
Powerful, beautiful, thoughtful pop. For fans of Frightened Rabbit, Chad VanGaalen, and Okkervil River. Listen to "CPR/Claws PT2" or "Starting Over."
Foxy Shazam
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Foxy Shazam
Album: Foxy Shazam
Label: Sire
Genre: Pop rock
Comments: If Mika fronted a rock'n'roll band, it might sound something like Foxy Shazam, who are good at what they do and are already rolling out their third record. Highly touted by Spin, the group's song "Unstoppable" was featured in the Super Bowl. Queen-like attitude and piano-riffage with all of the theatricality, the poppier-punk elements aren't the strongest ones on here. "Wanna-Be Angel," however, is.
Artist: Foxy Shazam
Album: Foxy Shazam
Label: Sire
Genre: Pop rock
Comments: If Mika fronted a rock'n'roll band, it might sound something like Foxy Shazam, who are good at what they do and are already rolling out their third record. Highly touted by Spin, the group's song "Unstoppable" was featured in the Super Bowl. Queen-like attitude and piano-riffage with all of the theatricality, the poppier-punk elements aren't the strongest ones on here. "Wanna-Be Angel," however, is.
Fyfe Dangerfield
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Fyfe Dangerfield
Album: She Needs Me (single)
Label: Downtown
Genre: Pop
Comments: A killer straying-into-falsetto pop song courtesy of English rocker and founder of Guillemots.
Leo Blais
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Leo Blais
Album: The Free EP
Label: Carbon Neutral
Genre: Pop rock
Comments: Ben Kweller-esque straightaway rock tunes that are a little bit spunky and every bit endearing, The Free EP is what it says it is -- free. Blais offers these eight tracks free of charge on his Web site and through iTunes, certainly a bargain given their fine pop production. "Show Me Love" (1) and "We Must Begin" (3) are great ones to start with.
The Living Sisters
Add Date: April 27
Artist: The Living Sisters
Album: Love to Live
Label: Vanguard
Genre: Indie pop
Comments: Before I read a brief little NPR-ticle about The Living Sisters, I thought they sounded a bit familiar: The Bird and the Bee's Inara George, Lavender Diamond's Becky Stark, and stellar solo performer Eleni Mandell let their lovely voices melt together on Love to Live, the first official release since they began their collaboration in 2006. With tinges of country, jazz, and soul, these Sisters make music beautiful (pop) music together that calls to mind the melding harmonies of Jenny Lewis & the Watson Twins' Rabbit Fur Coat. While "Ferris Wheel" and "You Make Me Blue" are early standouts, most of the songs on this all-too-brief record are worth a spin.
Brad Senne
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Brad Senne
Album: Aerial Views
Label: Grainbelt
Genre: Folk, acoustic
Comments: Almost too-heartfelt acoustic ballads from Minnesota's Brad Senne, this former hardcore punk-rocker is well in touch with his sensitive side as he gives us Bonnie "Prince" Billy-style slow brooders on Aerial Views. Iron and Wine/Damien Rice listeners will find something really enjoyable on here. Tracks like "Road Trip" and "Sing & Dance" are slow and somber, but deftly executed and perfect for those rainy Spring Term afternoons. One of the best singer songwriters to grace our playlist in a long time. (That is saying a lot, given the dirty connotation of the "singer songwriter" brand.)
White Dancer
Add Date: April 27
Artist: White Dancer
Album: Their Planes Will Block Out the Sun
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: This Jersey City band plays music informed by Brit pop and post-punk. Their promoter compares them to Doves, which seems appropriate. Try "Boardwalk Splinters" and "Teflon Kids."
Artist: White Dancer
Album: Their Planes Will Block Out the Sun
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: This Jersey City band plays music informed by Brit pop and post-punk. Their promoter compares them to Doves, which seems appropriate. Try "Boardwalk Splinters" and "Teflon Kids."
Mar
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Mar
Album: The Silence [reissue]
Label: Ring Road
Genre: Rock, post-rock, experimental
Comments: From the promoter: "A re-release of a 2005 underground classic that never got the American release it deserved. Mar was invited to record in Sigur Ros' Icelandic studio! Though, due to them being behind schedule on their own record, Mar was moved to Syrland Studio, where Bjork, Sigur Ros, Mum and Emiliana Torrini had all recorded. The album features members of Mum and Jimmy LaValle (chief of The Album Leaf)."
Artist: Mar
Album: The Silence [reissue]
Label: Ring Road
Genre: Rock, post-rock, experimental
Comments: From the promoter: "A re-release of a 2005 underground classic that never got the American release it deserved. Mar was invited to record in Sigur Ros' Icelandic studio! Though, due to them being behind schedule on their own record, Mar was moved to Syrland Studio, where Bjork, Sigur Ros, Mum and Emiliana Torrini had all recorded. The album features members of Mum and Jimmy LaValle (chief of The Album Leaf)."
Louisiana Territory
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Louisiana Territory
Album: Traces of Gold
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Richmond trio Louisiana Territory makes earnest, generally upbeat pop rock that reminds me of Maritime, but veering a little more toward the pop-punk end of the spectrum. Check out the title track and "Last Day of March."
Artist: Louisiana Territory
Album: Traces of Gold
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Richmond trio Louisiana Territory makes earnest, generally upbeat pop rock that reminds me of Maritime, but veering a little more toward the pop-punk end of the spectrum. Check out the title track and "Last Day of March."
Keith and Renee
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Keith and Renee
Album: Detours
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, power pop, alt-country
Comments: Really sugary folksy pop tunes from the Manitoba duo of Keith Macpherson and Renee Lamoureux. Check out "The One," "Gotta Be True" and "That's Life."
Artist: Keith and Renee
Album: Detours
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, power pop, alt-country
Comments: Really sugary folksy pop tunes from the Manitoba duo of Keith Macpherson and Renee Lamoureux. Check out "The One," "Gotta Be True" and "That's Life."
Rego
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Rego
Album: From the Royal Arcade
Label: Run With It Mgmt.
Genre: Alt-country, rock
Comments: The onesheet says: "Building on the success of a 2007 solo EP from frontwoman Rebecca Rego, From the Royal Arcade marks Rego's debut as a full band. Accompanied by a stellar cast of Chicago musicians, Rebecca's bluesy, soulful vocals center he album's effortless balance of delicate, emotive folk and alt-country rock."
Start with "Astronauts" and "Dye Your Hair Red."
Artist: Rego
Album: From the Royal Arcade
Label: Run With It Mgmt.
Genre: Alt-country, rock
Comments: The onesheet says: "Building on the success of a 2007 solo EP from frontwoman Rebecca Rego, From the Royal Arcade marks Rego's debut as a full band. Accompanied by a stellar cast of Chicago musicians, Rebecca's bluesy, soulful vocals center he album's effortless balance of delicate, emotive folk and alt-country rock."
Start with "Astronauts" and "Dye Your Hair Red."
Jacqueline Francis
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Jacqueline Francis
Album: Tales & Songs from Helen Gonne
Label: Pie Lady
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: From the onesheet: "Musically, Jacqueline is inspired by Aimee Mann--with whom she is most often compared--as well as Ben Folds, and The Sundays, Elliott Smith, and Rufus Wainwright. Her voice is big and dynamic, so she is also compared to Sara Bareilles [shudder] and Eva Cassidy. What kind of music is it? Jacqueline calls it 'folky piano pop.'"
Try "My Name" and "I'll Deny Everything" from the first half of the record; the last four tracks are spoken-word sketches written by Francis.
Artist: Jacqueline Francis
Album: Tales & Songs from Helen Gonne
Label: Pie Lady
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: From the onesheet: "Musically, Jacqueline is inspired by Aimee Mann--with whom she is most often compared--as well as Ben Folds, and The Sundays, Elliott Smith, and Rufus Wainwright. Her voice is big and dynamic, so she is also compared to Sara Bareilles [shudder] and Eva Cassidy. What kind of music is it? Jacqueline calls it 'folky piano pop.'"
Try "My Name" and "I'll Deny Everything" from the first half of the record; the last four tracks are spoken-word sketches written by Francis.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
The Radio Dept.
Add Date: 4/20/2010
Artist: The Radio Dept.
Album: Clinging to a Scheme
Label: Labrador
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"After four years The Radio Dept. finally returns with what is arguably their finest release to date! Clinging to a Scheme projects more ambiance than either of its predecessors. The result is a seamless transition for The Radio Dept., that is distinctly the same band but with more of a focus on subtle rhythmic additions and understated synths. Clinging to a Scheme begins with the extremely fun efforts in 'Domestic Scene' and 'Heaven's on Fire' both of which utilize bright percussion and vivacious synths that draw you in immediately. AAM's personal favorite, 'Never Follow Suit' is another one of the album's best tracks, takinga repeated keyboard riff and vocal murmurs that resound brilliantly throughout the track. Clinging to a Scheme is the perfect album for the Spring-Summer transistion!"
For fans of Real Estate, jj, and Yo La Tengo. A very enjoyable album.
AAM
Artist: The Radio Dept.
Album: Clinging to a Scheme
Label: Labrador
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"After four years The Radio Dept. finally returns with what is arguably their finest release to date! Clinging to a Scheme projects more ambiance than either of its predecessors. The result is a seamless transition for The Radio Dept., that is distinctly the same band but with more of a focus on subtle rhythmic additions and understated synths. Clinging to a Scheme begins with the extremely fun efforts in 'Domestic Scene' and 'Heaven's on Fire' both of which utilize bright percussion and vivacious synths that draw you in immediately. AAM's personal favorite, 'Never Follow Suit' is another one of the album's best tracks, takinga repeated keyboard riff and vocal murmurs that resound brilliantly throughout the track. Clinging to a Scheme is the perfect album for the Spring-Summer transistion!"
For fans of Real Estate, jj, and Yo La Tengo. A very enjoyable album.
AAM
Family Cactus
Add Date: April 27
Artist: Family Cactus
Album: Come Howling
Label: Arch Hill
Genre: Pop, Folk Indie
Comments: From the promoter:
"Come Howling is the debut from Wellington, New Zealand's Family Cactus, a seven-piece band of musicians of varying backgrounds and musical pedigrees. Over the course of three weeks Family Cactus embellished their rough sketches of songs with additional guitarists, keyboards and a rhythm section that fleshed out Family Cactus' blues-drenched country. Come Howling kicks off with 'Kingmaker,' a rollicking track of poppy drums, clean guitar riffs and a catchy chorus. 'No Magic' builds into a bombasitc rock anthem with rolling guitars that come in and out as singer Adam Ladley's vocals shine in full force. Family Cactus is one of New Zealand's finest new exports and we think fans of Lawrence of Arabia, Shout Out Lours, and Liam Finn will find something to love."
AAM
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Caribou
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Caribou
Album: Swim
Label: Merge
Genre: Electronica, electropop
Comments: One of the most rewarding things about listening to Caribou is that Dan Snaith has never made the same record twice. In his excellent review of Swim on AllMusic.com, Tim Sendra describes the previous LPs from Caribou (originally known as Manitoba): "the left-field IDM of Start Breaking My Heart, the shimmering neo-shoegaze of Up in Flames, the spare Krautrock of The Milk of Human Kindness, and the songcraft of Andorra." There are elements that mark those albums as Snaith's work throughout, and until 2007's Andorra, Caribou's first record for Merge (She & Him, Shout Out Louds, Spoon), there seemed to be a very logical progression--culminating in that brilliant release from three years ago, which won Canada's Polaris Music Prize.
If you're expecting more psychedelic pop on Swim, you're in for a huge surprise. But it's ultimately a pleasant one: this is the best Caribou record yet. It's much more electronic than anything Snaith has recorded since Up in Flames, and yet still as accessible as his pop-leaning recent work. Let the man himself explain: "The real substance of the sound of the record for me is this idea of making dance music that consists of liquid elements," Snaith says. "Rather than sounding metallic and rigid, everything is washing around you while you're listening to it--from one ear to another--but also the pitch is oscillating up and down, and each instrument is going in and out of tune with everything else. Sounds are emerging and disappearing, like everything is made out of water. Dance music is very much associated with very crisp, metallic, clean sounds. I like this idea of dance music that just washes around with fluidity."
Critics and fans are already calling this Caribou's masterpiece. I'll wait to reserve judgment; if his first decade of work is any indication, Snaith may put out a record in two or three years that somehow manages to trump his first five LPs. However, this is easily going to end up as one of the best records of 2010. Check out "Odessa," "Leave House," "Jamelia" (featuring vocals from Born Ruffians frontman Luke Lalonde) and "Kaili."
Also, go see Caribou (with former WLUR playlist favorite Toro y Moi) at the Jefferson Theater in Charlottesville on May 11. Snaith's LPs are done almost entirely as solo projects, but Caribou always tours as a 4 or 5-piece, and their live shows are nothing short of spectacular.
Artist: Caribou
Album: Swim
Label: Merge
Genre: Electronica, electropop
Comments: One of the most rewarding things about listening to Caribou is that Dan Snaith has never made the same record twice. In his excellent review of Swim on AllMusic.com, Tim Sendra describes the previous LPs from Caribou (originally known as Manitoba): "the left-field IDM of Start Breaking My Heart, the shimmering neo-shoegaze of Up in Flames, the spare Krautrock of The Milk of Human Kindness, and the songcraft of Andorra." There are elements that mark those albums as Snaith's work throughout, and until 2007's Andorra, Caribou's first record for Merge (She & Him, Shout Out Louds, Spoon), there seemed to be a very logical progression--culminating in that brilliant release from three years ago, which won Canada's Polaris Music Prize.
If you're expecting more psychedelic pop on Swim, you're in for a huge surprise. But it's ultimately a pleasant one: this is the best Caribou record yet. It's much more electronic than anything Snaith has recorded since Up in Flames, and yet still as accessible as his pop-leaning recent work. Let the man himself explain: "The real substance of the sound of the record for me is this idea of making dance music that consists of liquid elements," Snaith says. "Rather than sounding metallic and rigid, everything is washing around you while you're listening to it--from one ear to another--but also the pitch is oscillating up and down, and each instrument is going in and out of tune with everything else. Sounds are emerging and disappearing, like everything is made out of water. Dance music is very much associated with very crisp, metallic, clean sounds. I like this idea of dance music that just washes around with fluidity."
Critics and fans are already calling this Caribou's masterpiece. I'll wait to reserve judgment; if his first decade of work is any indication, Snaith may put out a record in two or three years that somehow manages to trump his first five LPs. However, this is easily going to end up as one of the best records of 2010. Check out "Odessa," "Leave House," "Jamelia" (featuring vocals from Born Ruffians frontman Luke Lalonde) and "Kaili."
Also, go see Caribou (with former WLUR playlist favorite Toro y Moi) at the Jefferson Theater in Charlottesville on May 11. Snaith's LPs are done almost entirely as solo projects, but Caribou always tours as a 4 or 5-piece, and their live shows are nothing short of spectacular.
Downbeat Project
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Downbeat Project
Album: Rise
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk, acoustic, jam
Comments: Rise is the debut record from Downbeat Project, one of the most promising bands in the ascendant Charlottesville music scene. Their blend of roots music, bluegrass, funk and folk will appeal to fans of the Dave Matthews Band, Jack Johnson and the John Butler Trio. However, Downbeat Project have a couple of big twists that separate them from the herd: Clarence Green's soulful voice and songwriting skills, as well as unique instrumentation--the lineup features Billy Cardine (The Biscuit Burners) on dobro and steel guitar, Lexington native Zachary Blatter (credited as Zachary Orchard) on mandocello, Gerald Soriano on upright bass and Rob Hubbard on drums. (Green also plays guitar.)
Downbeat Project has also appeared on WLUR's own House Mountain Radio, so show them some love. Check out "Real You," "Heaven" and "Back Home."
Artist: Downbeat Project
Album: Rise
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk, acoustic, jam
Comments: Rise is the debut record from Downbeat Project, one of the most promising bands in the ascendant Charlottesville music scene. Their blend of roots music, bluegrass, funk and folk will appeal to fans of the Dave Matthews Band, Jack Johnson and the John Butler Trio. However, Downbeat Project have a couple of big twists that separate them from the herd: Clarence Green's soulful voice and songwriting skills, as well as unique instrumentation--the lineup features Billy Cardine (The Biscuit Burners) on dobro and steel guitar, Lexington native Zachary Blatter (credited as Zachary Orchard) on mandocello, Gerald Soriano on upright bass and Rob Hubbard on drums. (Green also plays guitar.)
Downbeat Project has also appeared on WLUR's own House Mountain Radio, so show them some love. Check out "Real You," "Heaven" and "Back Home."
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
The Henry Clay People
Add Date: April 20
Artist: The Henry Clay People
Album: Somewhere on the Golden Coast
Label: TBD
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the opening seconds of Somewhere on the Golden Coast, it's clear that Glendale's Henry Clay People enjoy what they do. Their infectiously upbeat rock, which lies somewhere between the barroom sounds of The Replacements and The Hold Steady and the '90s indie rock of Pavement and Superchunk, is impossible for you not to enjoy, too. Start with "End of an Empire" and "Your Famous Friends."
Artist: The Henry Clay People
Album: Somewhere on the Golden Coast
Label: TBD
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the opening seconds of Somewhere on the Golden Coast, it's clear that Glendale's Henry Clay People enjoy what they do. Their infectiously upbeat rock, which lies somewhere between the barroom sounds of The Replacements and The Hold Steady and the '90s indie rock of Pavement and Superchunk, is impossible for you not to enjoy, too. Start with "End of an Empire" and "Your Famous Friends."
Sam Amidon
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Sam Amidon
Album: I See the Sign
Label: Bedroom Community
Genre: Folk
Comments: A superb record from Vermont native Sam Amidon, who spins traditional songs and modern works--I See the Sign features a cover of an R. Kelly song, "Relief"--into beautifully orchestrated folk. Amidon plays the banjo and guitar, and his "intimate, unshowy voice" has been compared to Arthur Russell (Q Magazine); his songs are fleshed out by the production of Icelandic wizard Valgeir Sigurdsson and the arrangements of Amidon's long-time friend and collaborator, the composer Nico Muhly. Truly wonderful music that will appeal to fans of Nina Nastasia, Bill Callahan/(smog) and Bonnie "Prince" Billy (who has also been known to cover R. Kelly).
Start with "How Come That Blood," of which Pitchfork said: "Sam Amidon sees no difference between a 19th-century folk ballad and a 21st-century avant-garde instrumental suite. In bridging the very old and the very new... he has managed to meld the rural and the urban, the organic and the synthetic, the oral tradition and the written score." That's a good way to encapsulate Amidon's approach on the entirety of I See the Sign. Also check out the title track, "Rain and Snow" and "Relief."
Artist: Sam Amidon
Album: I See the Sign
Label: Bedroom Community
Genre: Folk
Comments: A superb record from Vermont native Sam Amidon, who spins traditional songs and modern works--I See the Sign features a cover of an R. Kelly song, "Relief"--into beautifully orchestrated folk. Amidon plays the banjo and guitar, and his "intimate, unshowy voice" has been compared to Arthur Russell (Q Magazine); his songs are fleshed out by the production of Icelandic wizard Valgeir Sigurdsson and the arrangements of Amidon's long-time friend and collaborator, the composer Nico Muhly. Truly wonderful music that will appeal to fans of Nina Nastasia, Bill Callahan/(smog) and Bonnie "Prince" Billy (who has also been known to cover R. Kelly).
Start with "How Come That Blood," of which Pitchfork said: "Sam Amidon sees no difference between a 19th-century folk ballad and a 21st-century avant-garde instrumental suite. In bridging the very old and the very new... he has managed to meld the rural and the urban, the organic and the synthetic, the oral tradition and the written score." That's a good way to encapsulate Amidon's approach on the entirety of I See the Sign. Also check out the title track, "Rain and Snow" and "Relief."
Nada Surf
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Nada Surf
Album: if I had a hi-fi
Label: Mardev
Genre: Rock, covers record
Comments: Covers records are dangerous business; even when done for the right reasons--bands trying humbly to honor the artists who influenced them and the songs that moved them--it can still seem like the vainest of vanity projects. Fortunately, indie pop superstars Nada Surf go about this the right way throughout if I had a hi-fi. The band covers rock legends like Depeche Mode, Kate Bush and The Moody Blues; indie/underground touchstones like The Go-Betweens, Arthur Russell and Spoon; and even relative unknowns like The Dwight Twilley Band, Bill Fox and The Muslims. Yet they avoid the covers record gimmick of trying to imitate those bands; every number on this record has been tweaked to sound like a Nada Surf song. For me, that's the best way to pay tribute to the artists whom you grew up listening to, and the current bands whose records stay lodged in your player.
Check out "Electrocution" (Bill Fox), "You Were So Warm" (The Dwight Twilley Band), "Love Goes On!" (The Go-Betweens) and "The Agony of Laffitte" (Spoon).
Artist: Nada Surf
Album: if I had a hi-fi
Label: Mardev
Genre: Rock, covers record
Comments: Covers records are dangerous business; even when done for the right reasons--bands trying humbly to honor the artists who influenced them and the songs that moved them--it can still seem like the vainest of vanity projects. Fortunately, indie pop superstars Nada Surf go about this the right way throughout if I had a hi-fi. The band covers rock legends like Depeche Mode, Kate Bush and The Moody Blues; indie/underground touchstones like The Go-Betweens, Arthur Russell and Spoon; and even relative unknowns like The Dwight Twilley Band, Bill Fox and The Muslims. Yet they avoid the covers record gimmick of trying to imitate those bands; every number on this record has been tweaked to sound like a Nada Surf song. For me, that's the best way to pay tribute to the artists whom you grew up listening to, and the current bands whose records stay lodged in your player.
Check out "Electrocution" (Bill Fox), "You Were So Warm" (The Dwight Twilley Band), "Love Goes On!" (The Go-Betweens) and "The Agony of Laffitte" (Spoon).
Plants and Animals
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Plants and Animals
Album: La La Land
Label: Secret City
Genre: Rock
Comments: Montreal trio Plants and Animals makes psych folk-laced rock that should appeal to fans of Broken Social Scene, Blitzen Trapper and Akron/Family. Their sophomore release La La Land isn't quite as jawdropping as 2008's Parc Avenue, which Pitchfork called "a sprawling collection of rootsy melodies, majestic arrangements, and classic rock riffs that owes as much to jam-band psychedelia as it does to delicately orchestrated chamber-folk." However, it's a very solid followup. Start with "American Idol" and "Jeans Jeans Jeans."
Artist: Plants and Animals
Album: La La Land
Label: Secret City
Genre: Rock
Comments: Montreal trio Plants and Animals makes psych folk-laced rock that should appeal to fans of Broken Social Scene, Blitzen Trapper and Akron/Family. Their sophomore release La La Land isn't quite as jawdropping as 2008's Parc Avenue, which Pitchfork called "a sprawling collection of rootsy melodies, majestic arrangements, and classic rock riffs that owes as much to jam-band psychedelia as it does to delicately orchestrated chamber-folk." However, it's a very solid followup. Start with "American Idol" and "Jeans Jeans Jeans."
Monday, April 19, 2010
Taylor Hawkins
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Taylor Hawkins & the Coattail Riders
Album: Red Light Fever
Label: RCA
Genre: Rock
Comments: This is the side project of Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins, who stays on percussion and adds lead vocals to his repertoire on Red Light Fever. In addition to that alternative mainstay, this music should appeal to fans of Them Crooked Vultures, Scott Weiland (he still has fans, right?) and Muse. Hawkins' trio features Gannin Arnold on guitar and Chris Chaney on bass; guests on the album include Dave Grohl, Queen's Brian May and Roger Taylor, and The Cars' Elliot Easton. Recommended tracks on the album sticker.
Artist: Taylor Hawkins & the Coattail Riders
Album: Red Light Fever
Label: RCA
Genre: Rock
Comments: This is the side project of Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins, who stays on percussion and adds lead vocals to his repertoire on Red Light Fever. In addition to that alternative mainstay, this music should appeal to fans of Them Crooked Vultures, Scott Weiland (he still has fans, right?) and Muse. Hawkins' trio features Gannin Arnold on guitar and Chris Chaney on bass; guests on the album include Dave Grohl, Queen's Brian May and Roger Taylor, and The Cars' Elliot Easton. Recommended tracks on the album sticker.
Kate Nash
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Kate Nash
Album: My Best Friend Is You
Label: Geffen
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Dublin-born Londoner Kate Nash hasn't changed the formula from her successful debut, the 2007 release Made of Bricks. My Best Friend Is You is full of upbeat, mostly piano-driven, sometimes vulgar pop songs, and again will draw her more comparisons to the likes of Lily Allen and Regina Spektor. Start with "Paris," "Do-Wah-Doo" and "Kiss That Grrrl."
Artist: Kate Nash
Album: My Best Friend Is You
Label: Geffen
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Dublin-born Londoner Kate Nash hasn't changed the formula from her successful debut, the 2007 release Made of Bricks. My Best Friend Is You is full of upbeat, mostly piano-driven, sometimes vulgar pop songs, and again will draw her more comparisons to the likes of Lily Allen and Regina Spektor. Start with "Paris," "Do-Wah-Doo" and "Kiss That Grrrl."
The Like
Add Date: April 20
Artist: The Like
Album: College Radio EP
Label: Downtown
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Southern California quartet The Like churn out danceable rock tunes that will appeal to fans of '60s pop, from girl groups to The Beatles and The Kinks, as well as modern acts like The Pipettes. But don't call them a throwback band; their upcoming full-length, Release Me, was produced by Mark Ronson, whose presence is clearly felt on the electro-soul jam "Wishing He Was Dead." Also try the title track from the LP, which is due out in June.
Artist: The Like
Album: College Radio EP
Label: Downtown
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Southern California quartet The Like churn out danceable rock tunes that will appeal to fans of '60s pop, from girl groups to The Beatles and The Kinks, as well as modern acts like The Pipettes. But don't call them a throwback band; their upcoming full-length, Release Me, was produced by Mark Ronson, whose presence is clearly felt on the electro-soul jam "Wishing He Was Dead." Also try the title track from the LP, which is due out in June.
Battlehooch
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Battlehooch
Album: Battlehooch
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the onesheet: "They've been called everything from 'pure art rock sunshine' to 'deliberately obnoxious.' Battlehooch unabashedly walks the line between pop sensibility and avant garde experimentation, bending the chaotic into the melodic and evoking passionate responses in everyone that hears them.
"For their self-titled sophomore album, Battlehooch sought to capture the raw energy of their infamous live show without sacrificing their characteristic musical sophistication... The result is an incredibly rich and dynamic record that recalls musical shapeshifters like Os Mutantes, Fiery Furnaces and The Mothers of Invention while never shying away from the opportunity to roll out sweet vocal melodies and considerate songwriting."
Recommendations on the album sticker.
Artist: Battlehooch
Album: Battlehooch
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the onesheet: "They've been called everything from 'pure art rock sunshine' to 'deliberately obnoxious.' Battlehooch unabashedly walks the line between pop sensibility and avant garde experimentation, bending the chaotic into the melodic and evoking passionate responses in everyone that hears them.
"For their self-titled sophomore album, Battlehooch sought to capture the raw energy of their infamous live show without sacrificing their characteristic musical sophistication... The result is an incredibly rich and dynamic record that recalls musical shapeshifters like Os Mutantes, Fiery Furnaces and The Mothers of Invention while never shying away from the opportunity to roll out sweet vocal melodies and considerate songwriting."
Recommendations on the album sticker.
Earl Greyhound
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Earl Greyhound
Album: Suspicious Package
Label: Hawk Race
Genre: Rock
Comments: Suspicious Package is the second record from NYC band Earl Greyhound, which has drawn attention for its raucous live performances--exactly what you might expect from a guitar-driven neo-classic rock trio. From the band's web site: "The album marks a turning point in the band's maturation since the benefit of [drummer Ricc] Sheridan's full creative collaboration. Listeners will notice a marked expansion into the higher reaches of the sonic territories. Heavy, dark, groovy and grand--Suspicious Package is a reminder that through ROCK is still only a four-letter word, it can still pack a load of splendor."
Interesting trivia: Sheridan replaced the band's original drummer, Christopher Bear, now a member of Grizzly Bear. (Not too many musical similarities between the two bands, however) Check out "The Eyes of Cassandra/Part II" and "Ghost and the Witness."
Artist: Earl Greyhound
Album: Suspicious Package
Label: Hawk Race
Genre: Rock
Comments: Suspicious Package is the second record from NYC band Earl Greyhound, which has drawn attention for its raucous live performances--exactly what you might expect from a guitar-driven neo-classic rock trio. From the band's web site: "The album marks a turning point in the band's maturation since the benefit of [drummer Ricc] Sheridan's full creative collaboration. Listeners will notice a marked expansion into the higher reaches of the sonic territories. Heavy, dark, groovy and grand--Suspicious Package is a reminder that through ROCK is still only a four-letter word, it can still pack a load of splendor."
Interesting trivia: Sheridan replaced the band's original drummer, Christopher Bear, now a member of Grizzly Bear. (Not too many musical similarities between the two bands, however) Check out "The Eyes of Cassandra/Part II" and "Ghost and the Witness."
System and Station
Add Date: April 20
Artist: System and Station
Album: I'm Here to Kill (EP)
Label: Latest Flame
Genre: Rock
Comments: The Pacific Northwest quartet System and Station makes guitar-driven rock tunes influenced by alternative stalwarts like Built to Spill and Sunny Day Real Estate. Try "We See Ourselves Shining Brightly."
Artist: System and Station
Album: I'm Here to Kill (EP)
Label: Latest Flame
Genre: Rock
Comments: The Pacific Northwest quartet System and Station makes guitar-driven rock tunes influenced by alternative stalwarts like Built to Spill and Sunny Day Real Estate. Try "We See Ourselves Shining Brightly."
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Dosh
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Dosh
Album: Tommy
Label: Anticon
Genre: Pop, Post-Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"Anticon mainstaty, Martin Dosh has returned with his 5th proper studio LP, Tommy. Taking a break after two years of pulling drummer duty for Andrew Bird (Bird kindly returns the favor by lending his voice here). Dosh has seamlessly expanded his sound yet loosely straddles the popmosphere before dipping back into fantastic obscurity. The results are sublime. Tommy is a whirlwind, rhythm driven post-rcok opus pulling together almost every sound in the book."
Layered, uncluttered, sweeping post-rock pop for fans of Andrew Bird, Do Make Say Think, and Explosions in the Sky. Check out "Yer Face" or "Airlift."
Artist: Dosh
Album: Tommy
Label: Anticon
Genre: Pop, Post-Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"Anticon mainstaty, Martin Dosh has returned with his 5th proper studio LP, Tommy. Taking a break after two years of pulling drummer duty for Andrew Bird (Bird kindly returns the favor by lending his voice here). Dosh has seamlessly expanded his sound yet loosely straddles the popmosphere before dipping back into fantastic obscurity. The results are sublime. Tommy is a whirlwind, rhythm driven post-rcok opus pulling together almost every sound in the book."
Layered, uncluttered, sweeping post-rock pop for fans of Andrew Bird, Do Make Say Think, and Explosions in the Sky. Check out "Yer Face" or "Airlift."
Friday, April 16, 2010
The Whispering Tree
Add Date: April 20
Artist: The Whispering Tree
Album: Go Call the Captain
Label: Modern Vintage
Genre: Folk, Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Over the past six years, classically trained vocalist Eleanor Kleiner and French bassist Ellie Brangbour have traveled the world on an adventure that began when the two met at the London Center fo Contemporary Music in 2004. Full of imagery and stories of the human condition, The Whipsering Tree's songwriting is the backbone of their sound and has been heavily influenced by their travels abroad, which have taken them from South America to China."
Grown-up pop from talented musicians. Check out "Slide."
Artist: The Whispering Tree
Album: Go Call the Captain
Label: Modern Vintage
Genre: Folk, Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Over the past six years, classically trained vocalist Eleanor Kleiner and French bassist Ellie Brangbour have traveled the world on an adventure that began when the two met at the London Center fo Contemporary Music in 2004. Full of imagery and stories of the human condition, The Whipsering Tree's songwriting is the backbone of their sound and has been heavily influenced by their travels abroad, which have taken them from South America to China."
Grown-up pop from talented musicians. Check out "Slide."
The Lions
Add Date: April 20
Artist: The Lions
Album: New Rise of the Footsoldier
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, Pop
Comments: Old-fashioned, unsigned, raw rock and roll band with catchy songs. Reminded me some of TV on the Radio or Kings of Leon. Check out the title track.
Artist: The Lions
Album: New Rise of the Footsoldier
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, Pop
Comments: Old-fashioned, unsigned, raw rock and roll band with catchy songs. Reminded me some of TV on the Radio or Kings of Leon. Check out the title track.
Lisa Sheppard
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Lisa Sheppard
Album: One-Track Mind
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk, Country
Comments: From the promoter:
"Lisa Sheppard was born and raised in Houston, TX and moved to Los Angeles in 1988. Her early musical influences included Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles, Janis Joplin, and Boz Scaggs. ...'One Track Mind' embodies a stylistic blend of rock, blues and country music, making it a fusion of sound consistent with her roots."
Check out "Just Today." For fans of Nellie McKay.
Artist: Lisa Sheppard
Album: One-Track Mind
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk, Country
Comments: From the promoter:
"Lisa Sheppard was born and raised in Houston, TX and moved to Los Angeles in 1988. Her early musical influences included Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles, Janis Joplin, and Boz Scaggs. ...'One Track Mind' embodies a stylistic blend of rock, blues and country music, making it a fusion of sound consistent with her roots."
Check out "Just Today." For fans of Nellie McKay.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Cypress Hill
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Cypress Hill
Album: Rise Up
Label: EMI/Priority
Genre: Hip hop/rock
Artist: Cypress Hill
Album: Rise Up
Label: EMI/Priority
Genre: Hip hop/rock
Comments: They're baaaaaaaccccckkkkk. Legendary California hip-hoppers, most famous for their early '90s classics "How I Could Just Kill a Man" and "Insane in the Brain," return after a 6-year hiatus with a Snoop Dogg-supervised record that still sounds great even after rap-rock's glory days are long gone. Rage Against the Machine/Audioslave's Tom Morello lends his masterful guitarwork to "Shut 'Em Down" and stellar lead single "Rise Up," along with folks like Everlast and System of a Down's Daron Malakian. Though primarily pegged as a hip-hop group, guitar and live drums never sounded out of place on Cypress Hill's songs, as they are right at home on here.
Blunt Mechanic
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Blunt Mechanic
Album: World Record
Label: Barsuk
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the creepy Nickelodeon cover art, I didn't quite expect such a fine collection of riff-heavy lo-fi rock. Blunt Mechanic is the latest moniker of King of Like Spitting's Ben Barnett, who spends his days as music director at Seattle's Paul Green School of Rock. (I'm resisting the Jack Black jokes...)
Artist: Blunt Mechanic
Album: World Record
Label: Barsuk
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the creepy Nickelodeon cover art, I didn't quite expect such a fine collection of riff-heavy lo-fi rock. Blunt Mechanic is the latest moniker of King of Like Spitting's Ben Barnett, who spends his days as music director at Seattle's Paul Green School of Rock. (I'm resisting the Jack Black jokes...)
UNKLE
Add Date: April 20
Artist: UNKLE
Album: Where Did The Night Fall
Label: Surrender All
Genre: Electro-rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Three years on from their third album proper, UNKLE are back with Where Did The Night Fall, a big, deep, kaleidoscopic record. It's both widescreen and intimate, propulsive and reflective, drawing on influences as diverse as krautrock, psychedilia, techno, afrobeat and their grass-root sample sound." With guests that range from The Black Angels to Gavin Clark to grunge legend Mark Lanegan (on brooding closer "Another Night Out"), the record is a hodgepodge of sounds and styles that don't always quite add up to a cohesive whole. Still, some of those parts, like "Natural Selection" and "On A Wire" are lovely.
Artist: UNKLE
Album: Where Did The Night Fall
Label: Surrender All
Genre: Electro-rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Three years on from their third album proper, UNKLE are back with Where Did The Night Fall, a big, deep, kaleidoscopic record. It's both widescreen and intimate, propulsive and reflective, drawing on influences as diverse as krautrock, psychedilia, techno, afrobeat and their grass-root sample sound." With guests that range from The Black Angels to Gavin Clark to grunge legend Mark Lanegan (on brooding closer "Another Night Out"), the record is a hodgepodge of sounds and styles that don't always quite add up to a cohesive whole. Still, some of those parts, like "Natural Selection" and "On A Wire" are lovely.
The Pack a.d.
Add Date: April 20
Artist: The Pack a.d.
Artist: The Pack a.d.
Album: We Kill Computers
Label: Mint
Genre: Rock, garage
Comments: With one part White Stripes and one part Black Keys, this duo's third record is a sophisticated-but-sloppy mess in all the right ways. Singer Becky Black occasionally channels Ryan Adams with her lovely howl, and without a proper bassist, it's amazing how heavy these ladies sound. Recorded in Vancouver by Jesse Gander (Japandroids, Bison b.c.), these 13 songs are quick but never fleeting. "Everyone Looks Like Everyone" teases you in before "Crazy" punches you in the face. (Not literally.)
Label: Mint
Genre: Rock, garage
Comments: With one part White Stripes and one part Black Keys, this duo's third record is a sophisticated-but-sloppy mess in all the right ways. Singer Becky Black occasionally channels Ryan Adams with her lovely howl, and without a proper bassist, it's amazing how heavy these ladies sound. Recorded in Vancouver by Jesse Gander (Japandroids, Bison b.c.), these 13 songs are quick but never fleeting. "Everyone Looks Like Everyone" teases you in before "Crazy" punches you in the face. (Not literally.)
Shortstack
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Shortstack
Artist: Shortstack
Album: Please Leave My Mind
Label: Free Dirt
Genre: Rock, blues
Comments: Shortstack bill themselves as a "post-Americana rock" band, a description that seems ridiculous at first until you realize that it's a pretty deft description of what they do on this, their third full-length record. Hailing from Washington, D.C., these guys sound a little worn and weathered from tours, tribulations, and country songs. Channeled together, they make fine pop rock songs like "Greyhound" and "Here's to Progress" sound sincere. With a sense of humor and a sturdy sound, give 'em a listen.
Label: Free Dirt
Genre: Rock, blues
Comments: Shortstack bill themselves as a "post-Americana rock" band, a description that seems ridiculous at first until you realize that it's a pretty deft description of what they do on this, their third full-length record. Hailing from Washington, D.C., these guys sound a little worn and weathered from tours, tribulations, and country songs. Channeled together, they make fine pop rock songs like "Greyhound" and "Here's to Progress" sound sincere. With a sense of humor and a sturdy sound, give 'em a listen.
The New Loud
Add Date: April 20
Artist: The New Loud
Album: Measures Melt
Label: Self-released
Genre: Electro-pop punk
Comments: Mark Trombino--of Blink 182 and Jimmy Eat World fame--mixed this record that New Loud frontman Shane Olivo recorded in his basement, but these two guys and one girl sound like they could make the background of an MTV show if they keep making catchy pop-"punk." Occasionally fierce but more often restrained, "Get Lost" and "Don't Dance" might be the better ones on here. With 10 songs in 30-something minutes, The New Loud certainly has the formula down.
Artist: The New Loud
Album: Measures Melt
Label: Self-released
Genre: Electro-pop punk
Comments: Mark Trombino--of Blink 182 and Jimmy Eat World fame--mixed this record that New Loud frontman Shane Olivo recorded in his basement, but these two guys and one girl sound like they could make the background of an MTV show if they keep making catchy pop-"punk." Occasionally fierce but more often restrained, "Get Lost" and "Don't Dance" might be the better ones on here. With 10 songs in 30-something minutes, The New Loud certainly has the formula down.
Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
Add Date: April 20
Artist: Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
Album: I Learned the Hard Way
Label: Daptone
Genre: Soul
Comments: Another piece of "Daptone Gold" from the Brooklyn label, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings give us a beautiful record of spirit and soul. Fully engrossed in the classic sounds of Muscle Shoals and Stax, Jones and her band find a way to make soul sound fresh and new. "The Game Gets Old" kicks things off at a moderate pace before the record speeds up and slows down in swell proportion. Fans of Aretha and Mavis, check out the Sam Cooke-style "Mama Don't Like My Man" and the stellar "I Learned the Hard Way." A glorious record.
Artist: Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
Album: I Learned the Hard Way
Label: Daptone
Genre: Soul
Comments: Another piece of "Daptone Gold" from the Brooklyn label, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings give us a beautiful record of spirit and soul. Fully engrossed in the classic sounds of Muscle Shoals and Stax, Jones and her band find a way to make soul sound fresh and new. "The Game Gets Old" kicks things off at a moderate pace before the record speeds up and slows down in swell proportion. Fans of Aretha and Mavis, check out the Sam Cooke-style "Mama Don't Like My Man" and the stellar "I Learned the Hard Way." A glorious record.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Best New Music - April 13
Spin these gems:
Roky Erickson with Okkervil River
MGMT
The Kissaway Trail
New Young Pony Club
Night Driving in Small Towns
And also check out: The Consulate General, Kings Go Forth, Jesse Malin, Nathaniel Rateliff
Roky Erickson with Okkervil River
MGMT
The Kissaway Trail
New Young Pony Club
Night Driving in Small Towns
And also check out: The Consulate General, Kings Go Forth, Jesse Malin, Nathaniel Rateliff
New Young Pony Club
Add Date: April 13
Artist: New Young Pony Club
Album: The Optimist
Label: The Numbers
Genre: Rock, synth pop, dance rock
Comments: Up until now, it was easy to dismiss this London band as a one-trick pony. (Yes, I went there.) The song "Ice Cream," which was recorded way back in 2005 and preceded their first full-length by roughly two years, was undeniably catchy neo-disco, and has been featured in multiple TV commercials. However, beyond that track, the 2007 debut LP Fantastic Playroom never really jumped out at me.
Nor did it satisfy the members of New Young Pony Club. "'Disco punk' came to [the UK] from the fringes of New York, and it felt like an outsiders scene," vocalist Ty Bulmer says. So the band set out in a different direction for The Optimist. "I do remember making certain guidelines for this album, like no four on the floor, no cowbell and vocally no 'sexy talk' or monotone vocal," Andy Spence explains.
The result is a darker, yet still easily accessible synth pop record, with the band's New Wave and post-punk influences coming to the forefront. Less disco, more New Order and Depeche Mode; no gimmickry, but still danceable--it's a great change in direction for the band. Check out "Lost a Girl," "Rapture," "Oh Cherie" and the title track.
Artist: New Young Pony Club
Album: The Optimist
Label: The Numbers
Genre: Rock, synth pop, dance rock
Comments: Up until now, it was easy to dismiss this London band as a one-trick pony. (Yes, I went there.) The song "Ice Cream," which was recorded way back in 2005 and preceded their first full-length by roughly two years, was undeniably catchy neo-disco, and has been featured in multiple TV commercials. However, beyond that track, the 2007 debut LP Fantastic Playroom never really jumped out at me.
Nor did it satisfy the members of New Young Pony Club. "'Disco punk' came to [the UK] from the fringes of New York, and it felt like an outsiders scene," vocalist Ty Bulmer says. So the band set out in a different direction for The Optimist. "I do remember making certain guidelines for this album, like no four on the floor, no cowbell and vocally no 'sexy talk' or monotone vocal," Andy Spence explains.
The result is a darker, yet still easily accessible synth pop record, with the band's New Wave and post-punk influences coming to the forefront. Less disco, more New Order and Depeche Mode; no gimmickry, but still danceable--it's a great change in direction for the band. Check out "Lost a Girl," "Rapture," "Oh Cherie" and the title track.
The Consulate General
Add Date: April 13
Artist: The Consulate General
Album: Person Number
Label: Circle Into Square
Genre: Rock, electropop
Comments: The Consulate General is the new project of Boy in Static's Alexander Chen; Person Number is a synth-driven indie pop record that will appeal to fans of The Notwist, Her Space Holiday and Montag--all of whom Chen has toured and/or collaborated with. And like those acts, The Consulate General's music involves more extensive instrumentation than your average synth pop album, including marimba, clarinet and even upright bass. Montag's Antoine Bedard features on opening track "What Time Is It Now," and the record also includes guest work from members of Misha, Slowdive and Sole & the Skyrider Band. In addition to the album opener, check out "65 or Older," "On the Run" and "Sweet Solano."
Artist: The Consulate General
Album: Person Number
Label: Circle Into Square
Genre: Rock, electropop
Comments: The Consulate General is the new project of Boy in Static's Alexander Chen; Person Number is a synth-driven indie pop record that will appeal to fans of The Notwist, Her Space Holiday and Montag--all of whom Chen has toured and/or collaborated with. And like those acts, The Consulate General's music involves more extensive instrumentation than your average synth pop album, including marimba, clarinet and even upright bass. Montag's Antoine Bedard features on opening track "What Time Is It Now," and the record also includes guest work from members of Misha, Slowdive and Sole & the Skyrider Band. In addition to the album opener, check out "65 or Older," "On the Run" and "Sweet Solano."
The Shondes
Add Date: April 13
Artist: The Shondes
Album: My Dear One
Label: Fanatic
Genre: Rock, cabaret pop
Comments: From the promoter: "The Shondes [pronounced SHON-duhs] are a rock band based in Brooklyn best known for potent political anthems and heartbreaking violin hooks. The foursome brings the sound and spirit of riot grrrl to its unique brand of Jewish-inflected music with an explosive live show where The Shondes approach each moment on stage with limitless joy and ferocious passion." Recommended tracks on the album sticker.
Artist: The Shondes
Album: My Dear One
Label: Fanatic
Genre: Rock, cabaret pop
Comments: From the promoter: "The Shondes [pronounced SHON-duhs] are a rock band based in Brooklyn best known for potent political anthems and heartbreaking violin hooks. The foursome brings the sound and spirit of riot grrrl to its unique brand of Jewish-inflected music with an explosive live show where The Shondes approach each moment on stage with limitless joy and ferocious passion." Recommended tracks on the album sticker.
Jesse Malin
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Jesse Malin & the St. Marks Social
Album: Love It to Life
Label: SideOneDummy
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Filled with the characters Malin does best--messengers and misanthropes, hipsters and hypocrites--and as always, his constant themes of redemption, nightlife, heartbreak, and survival, Love It to Life--a sentiment taken from a ticket stub Joe Strummer autographed for Jesse--was built with desperate optimism that shouts in gang vocals that no matter how bad it gets, you're never alone."
For fans of Bruce Springsteen and Malin's longtime friend and collaborator Ryan Adams. Two of the best tracks on the record, "The Archer" and "Lonely at Heart," were originally written for a film about J.D. Salinger. Also check out lead track "Burning the Bowery."
Artist: Jesse Malin & the St. Marks Social
Album: Love It to Life
Label: SideOneDummy
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Filled with the characters Malin does best--messengers and misanthropes, hipsters and hypocrites--and as always, his constant themes of redemption, nightlife, heartbreak, and survival, Love It to Life--a sentiment taken from a ticket stub Joe Strummer autographed for Jesse--was built with desperate optimism that shouts in gang vocals that no matter how bad it gets, you're never alone."
For fans of Bruce Springsteen and Malin's longtime friend and collaborator Ryan Adams. Two of the best tracks on the record, "The Archer" and "Lonely at Heart," were originally written for a film about J.D. Salinger. Also check out lead track "Burning the Bowery."
Murder By Death
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Murder By Death
Album: Good Morning, Magpie
Label: Vagrant
Genre: Rock, folk
Comments: Murder By Death's folk stomp-infused rock is equal parts Cursive and Rasputina. Says record label Vagrant (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, The Hold Steady): "They may call Bloomington, Indiana, home, but since their 2000 formation, Murder By Death have been a band without musical borders. Theirs is a world where Old West murder ballads mingle with rock-injected Western classicism; where an album's sequencing can take listeners from a haunted back alley in rural Mexico to a raucous Irish pub."
The band's fifth LP, Good Morning, Magpie, is driven by Sarah Balliett's cello and Adam Turla's Nick Cave-like vocal delivery. Also for fans of Flogging Molly and The Black Heart Procession. Start with "Yes" and "You Don't Miss Twice (When You're Shavin' With a Knife)."
Artist: Murder By Death
Album: Good Morning, Magpie
Label: Vagrant
Genre: Rock, folk
Comments: Murder By Death's folk stomp-infused rock is equal parts Cursive and Rasputina. Says record label Vagrant (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, The Hold Steady): "They may call Bloomington, Indiana, home, but since their 2000 formation, Murder By Death have been a band without musical borders. Theirs is a world where Old West murder ballads mingle with rock-injected Western classicism; where an album's sequencing can take listeners from a haunted back alley in rural Mexico to a raucous Irish pub."
The band's fifth LP, Good Morning, Magpie, is driven by Sarah Balliett's cello and Adam Turla's Nick Cave-like vocal delivery. Also for fans of Flogging Molly and The Black Heart Procession. Start with "Yes" and "You Don't Miss Twice (When You're Shavin' With a Knife)."
Stanton Moore
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Stanton Moore
Album: Groove Alchemy
Label: Telarc International
Genre: Funk
Comments: From the onesheet: "For drummer Stanton Moore, it's just a matter of finding the right groove. Moore proves his theory many times over with the release of Groove Alchemy... The 12-track set is the culmination of Moore's multimedia project that also includes an instructional book and DVD of the same name. All three facets of the project are designed to explore the roots of funk drumming by examining the work of pioneers like Jabo Starks, Clyde Stubblefield, and Zigaboo Modeliste--each of whom made their mark at different times throughout the 1960s as the engines driving James Brown's and the Meters' legendary rhythm sections--and in turn tracing their influences back to the rhythms coming out of New Orleans in the earlier part of the 20th century.
"But Groove Alchemy is anything but a strictly academic exercise. 'If you're just a listener and a music fan, you can pick up the record and totally dig it for the music itself,' says Moore... [whose] trio on the new recording includes Robert Walter [on organ and piano] and guitarist Will Bernard."
Perhaps some competition for Jens Hannemann?
Artist: Stanton Moore
Album: Groove Alchemy
Label: Telarc International
Genre: Funk
Comments: From the onesheet: "For drummer Stanton Moore, it's just a matter of finding the right groove. Moore proves his theory many times over with the release of Groove Alchemy... The 12-track set is the culmination of Moore's multimedia project that also includes an instructional book and DVD of the same name. All three facets of the project are designed to explore the roots of funk drumming by examining the work of pioneers like Jabo Starks, Clyde Stubblefield, and Zigaboo Modeliste--each of whom made their mark at different times throughout the 1960s as the engines driving James Brown's and the Meters' legendary rhythm sections--and in turn tracing their influences back to the rhythms coming out of New Orleans in the earlier part of the 20th century.
"But Groove Alchemy is anything but a strictly academic exercise. 'If you're just a listener and a music fan, you can pick up the record and totally dig it for the music itself,' says Moore... [whose] trio on the new recording includes Robert Walter [on organ and piano] and guitarist Will Bernard."
Perhaps some competition for Jens Hannemann?
AM Taxi
Add Date: April 13
Artist: AM Taxi
Album: We Don't Stand a Chance
Label: Virgin
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the onesheet: "With a blend of old-school punk, world beat and modern pop influences, Chicago-based AM Taxi combines experience with exuberance on their Virgin Records debut, We Don't Stand a Chance." Lead singer and guitarist Adam Krier says of AM Taxi's music: "We're not re-inventing the wheel here. It's just classic rock songwriting with present-day arrangements. Ever since I was a kid, I've been attracted to the honesty of bands like the Replacements and the Clash."
We Don't Stand a Chance is full of upbeat, catchy rock that certainly aims to emulate those seminal bands, right down to Krier's raspy, Westerbergian vocals. Start with "Fed Up" and "Dead Street."
Artist: AM Taxi
Album: We Don't Stand a Chance
Label: Virgin
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the onesheet: "With a blend of old-school punk, world beat and modern pop influences, Chicago-based AM Taxi combines experience with exuberance on their Virgin Records debut, We Don't Stand a Chance." Lead singer and guitarist Adam Krier says of AM Taxi's music: "We're not re-inventing the wheel here. It's just classic rock songwriting with present-day arrangements. Ever since I was a kid, I've been attracted to the honesty of bands like the Replacements and the Clash."
We Don't Stand a Chance is full of upbeat, catchy rock that certainly aims to emulate those seminal bands, right down to Krier's raspy, Westerbergian vocals. Start with "Fed Up" and "Dead Street."
Misty Boyce
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Misty Boyce
Album: Misty Boyce
Label: Modern Vintage
Genre: Rock, folk pop
Comments: New Mexico native Misty Boyce makes piano-driven folk pop in the vein of Regina Spektor, Rufus Wainwright or Fiona Apple. Check out "Regrets."
Artist: Misty Boyce
Album: Misty Boyce
Label: Modern Vintage
Genre: Rock, folk pop
Comments: New Mexico native Misty Boyce makes piano-driven folk pop in the vein of Regina Spektor, Rufus Wainwright or Fiona Apple. Check out "Regrets."
Nathaniel Rateliff
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Nathaniel Rateliff
Album: In Memory of Loss
Label: Rounder
Genre: Folk
Comments: With all of the musicians making folk these days, it's very tough to stand out--even if you're good at what you do, it's pretty easy to fall into the trap of sounding like hundreds of other singer/songwriters. Thankfully, the Missouri-born, Denver-based folk musician Nathaniel Rateliff doesn't limit himself to strumming an acoustic guitar and singing plaintive, earnest lyrics. While he's certainly capable of churning out a pensive number in the spirit of Leonard Cohen (he taught himself piano by learning "Hallelujah"), some of the best moments on In Memory of Loss are when Rateliff veers into folk rock that brings to mind Great Lake Swimmers, or the louder moments of a Will Oldham record. In fact, there's a lot of similarity between Rateliff and Bonnie "Prince" Billy; both artists can alternate between pensive ballads and more upbeat, country-leaning tunes, and spin the two styles into a seamless folk record.
Rateliff is opening on several upcoming dates for The Tallest Man on Earth and The Low Anthem, and In Memory of Loss will certainly appeal to fans of those acts. Check out the folk rock tunes "A Lamb on the Stone" and "Whimper and Wail," as well as the quieter "We Never Win" and "Early Spring Till."
Artist: Nathaniel Rateliff
Album: In Memory of Loss
Label: Rounder
Genre: Folk
Comments: With all of the musicians making folk these days, it's very tough to stand out--even if you're good at what you do, it's pretty easy to fall into the trap of sounding like hundreds of other singer/songwriters. Thankfully, the Missouri-born, Denver-based folk musician Nathaniel Rateliff doesn't limit himself to strumming an acoustic guitar and singing plaintive, earnest lyrics. While he's certainly capable of churning out a pensive number in the spirit of Leonard Cohen (he taught himself piano by learning "Hallelujah"), some of the best moments on In Memory of Loss are when Rateliff veers into folk rock that brings to mind Great Lake Swimmers, or the louder moments of a Will Oldham record. In fact, there's a lot of similarity between Rateliff and Bonnie "Prince" Billy; both artists can alternate between pensive ballads and more upbeat, country-leaning tunes, and spin the two styles into a seamless folk record.
Rateliff is opening on several upcoming dates for The Tallest Man on Earth and The Low Anthem, and In Memory of Loss will certainly appeal to fans of those acts. Check out the folk rock tunes "A Lamb on the Stone" and "Whimper and Wail," as well as the quieter "We Never Win" and "Early Spring Till."
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
River City Extension
Add Date: April 13
Artist: River City Extension
Album: The Unmistakable Man
Label: XOXO
Genre: Folk rock
Comments: This New Jersey 8-piece plays energetic, folk-infused rock that brings to mind everyone from pre-Rubin Avett Brothers to DeVotchKa. At their quieter moments, you can even compare them to The Low Anthem, but River City Extension is at its best when playing rambunctious country jams like "Our New Intelligence" and "Adrianne."
Artist: River City Extension
Album: The Unmistakable Man
Label: XOXO
Genre: Folk rock
Comments: This New Jersey 8-piece plays energetic, folk-infused rock that brings to mind everyone from pre-Rubin Avett Brothers to DeVotchKa. At their quieter moments, you can even compare them to The Low Anthem, but River City Extension is at its best when playing rambunctious country jams like "Our New Intelligence" and "Adrianne."
Coheed and Cambria
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Coheed and Cambria
Album: Year of the Black Rainbow
Label: Columbia
Genre: Rock, hard rock, progressive rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Although originally forming as a rock trio in 1995, New York's Coheed and Cambria officially took root in 2001, shedding their former name of Shabutie and embracing a fusion of progressive rock, emocore, and highly conceptual album themes. Now, the band returns with their most powerful record to date, the blistering Year of the Black Rainbow."
I'm completely unqualified to write a review for a Coheed and Cambria record; their music simply isn't my thing. However, I do know that they do what they do very, very well, and they've been consistently putting out good records for the last decade. Year of the Black Rainbow seems to be the latest in that long line of success. The promoter recommends "Guns of Summer," "Far," "The Shattered Symphony" and "Made Out of Nothing (All That I Am)."
Artist: Coheed and Cambria
Album: Year of the Black Rainbow
Label: Columbia
Genre: Rock, hard rock, progressive rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Although originally forming as a rock trio in 1995, New York's Coheed and Cambria officially took root in 2001, shedding their former name of Shabutie and embracing a fusion of progressive rock, emocore, and highly conceptual album themes. Now, the band returns with their most powerful record to date, the blistering Year of the Black Rainbow."
I'm completely unqualified to write a review for a Coheed and Cambria record; their music simply isn't my thing. However, I do know that they do what they do very, very well, and they've been consistently putting out good records for the last decade. Year of the Black Rainbow seems to be the latest in that long line of success. The promoter recommends "Guns of Summer," "Far," "The Shattered Symphony" and "Made Out of Nothing (All That I Am)."
Meklit Hadero
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Meklit Hadero
Album: On a Day Like This...
Label: Porto Franco
Genre: Folk, international
Comments: The onesheet says: "If Joni Mitchell were East African and met Nina Simone for tea in San Francisco's Mission District, she might end up sounding like Meklit Hadero." (Evidently meeting someone for tea causes you to adopt their musical style?) Yet Hadero, an Ethiopian-born, U.S.-raised singer/songwriter, deserves such praise for her beautiful voice and simple-yet-ornate song structures. Check out "Float and Fall," the jazzy Ethiopian traditional "Abbay Mado" and the blues classic "Feeling Good" (which, by the way, My Brightest Diamond's Shara Worden did for the Dark Was the Night compilation last year).
Artist: Meklit Hadero
Album: On a Day Like This...
Label: Porto Franco
Genre: Folk, international
Comments: The onesheet says: "If Joni Mitchell were East African and met Nina Simone for tea in San Francisco's Mission District, she might end up sounding like Meklit Hadero." (Evidently meeting someone for tea causes you to adopt their musical style?) Yet Hadero, an Ethiopian-born, U.S.-raised singer/songwriter, deserves such praise for her beautiful voice and simple-yet-ornate song structures. Check out "Float and Fall," the jazzy Ethiopian traditional "Abbay Mado" and the blues classic "Feeling Good" (which, by the way, My Brightest Diamond's Shara Worden did for the Dark Was the Night compilation last year).
Night Driving in Small Towns
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Night Driving in Small Towns
Album: Serial Killer
Label: Lower 40
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: It's really, really easy to compare Georgia band Night Driving in Small Towns to Rilo Kiley and The Essex Green, so that's just what I'll do. Like those two indie pop stalwarts, NDIST make upbeat, slightly folksy indie pop; they both alternate male-female vocals; and Andrea Rogers' sweetly melancholy voice could easily be mistaken for that of Jenny Lewis or Sasha Bell. Serial Killer will easily appeal to fans of Cannibal Sea or The Execution of All Things. Check out "February," the title track and the countryish number "Barstool."
Artist: Night Driving in Small Towns
Album: Serial Killer
Label: Lower 40
Genre: Rock, indie pop
Comments: It's really, really easy to compare Georgia band Night Driving in Small Towns to Rilo Kiley and The Essex Green, so that's just what I'll do. Like those two indie pop stalwarts, NDIST make upbeat, slightly folksy indie pop; they both alternate male-female vocals; and Andrea Rogers' sweetly melancholy voice could easily be mistaken for that of Jenny Lewis or Sasha Bell. Serial Killer will easily appeal to fans of Cannibal Sea or The Execution of All Things. Check out "February," the title track and the countryish number "Barstool."
The Kissaway Trail
Add Date: April 13
Artist: The Kissaway Trail
Album: Sleep Mountain
Label: Bella Union
Genre: Rock, shoegaze, indie pop
Comments: British tastemaker NME has described The Kissaway Trail as a "gutsier Pains of Being Pure at Heart." It's an amusing, if not entirely accurate, description of this Danish band, which will release its third LP, Sleep Mountain, stateside on April 20. There are certainly elements of shoegaze in The Kissaway Trail's music, but there's also plenty of the driving indie rock of, say, Arcade Fire, as well as the indie pop of Swedish acts like Loney Dear, and the experimental dream pop that brings to mind another Danish band, Mew. In other words, Sleep Mountain has something for everyone, and it's all very well done. Start with "SDP" (the opening track, which Pitchfork called a "six minute monster"), "Beat Your Heartbeat," "New Year" and "New Lipstick."
Artist: The Kissaway Trail
Album: Sleep Mountain
Label: Bella Union
Genre: Rock, shoegaze, indie pop
Comments: British tastemaker NME has described The Kissaway Trail as a "gutsier Pains of Being Pure at Heart." It's an amusing, if not entirely accurate, description of this Danish band, which will release its third LP, Sleep Mountain, stateside on April 20. There are certainly elements of shoegaze in The Kissaway Trail's music, but there's also plenty of the driving indie rock of, say, Arcade Fire, as well as the indie pop of Swedish acts like Loney Dear, and the experimental dream pop that brings to mind another Danish band, Mew. In other words, Sleep Mountain has something for everyone, and it's all very well done. Start with "SDP" (the opening track, which Pitchfork called a "six minute monster"), "Beat Your Heartbeat," "New Year" and "New Lipstick."
Roky Erickson with Okkervil River
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Roky Erickson with Okkervil River
Album: True Love Cast Out All Evil
Label: ANTI-
Genre: Alt-country, folk rock
Comments: From ANTI- (Neko Case, Dr. Dog, Os Mutantes, Tom Waits): "Legendary musician Roky Erickson triumphantly returns with True Love Cast Out All Evil, his first new album in 14 years, produced by Will Sheff from Okkervil River, and featuring Will and Okkervil as Erickson's backing band. True Love Cast Out All Evil is comprised largely of unreleased songs that Austin native Erickson wrote throughout his decades-long career--detailing with heartbreaking candor a harrowing life that has included shock treatment, imprisonment, mental illness, and irreversible loss. With a wisdom that can only be marshaled by someone who has been through all of this, Erickson also interjects the songs with love, hope, and spiritual grace.
"While True Love Cast Out All Evil echoes the many musical styles in which Erickson has been a participant or a pioneer--including garage-rock, lo-fi psych, heavy metal, and country-tinged Texas folk--it also moves Erickson into new territory, foregrounding his songwriting skill. In these songs, Erickson addresses his troubled history in his own words, eschewing the metaphors of earlier songs like 'I Walked with a Zombie' to speak directly about hardship and the lessons learned from it. Will Sheff's production highlights the songs while interweaving them with found-sound and archival recordings culled from Erickson's home videos and recordings made in the Rusk State Hospital for the Criminally Insane.
"This is not a cynical comeback record, a lukewarm update on an established legacy--these are the best songs Roky has ever written, unreleased due to decades of personal problems."
I wanted to write my own review of this record, but as I can't top that one, I'll simply expound on it. This is one of the best and most significant releases of 2010; it's amazing to think that someone who has had such a tough life could still make art this beautiful and moving. It's also not what I would have expected from the "founding father of psychedelic rock;" True Love Cast Out All Evil is definitely a Texas country-rock record--thus the sensible and excellent decision to enlist the help of Sheff and Okkervil River.
Check out "Goodbye Sweet Dreams," "Bring Back the Past," "Be and Bring Me Home" and the title track.
Artist: Roky Erickson with Okkervil River
Album: True Love Cast Out All Evil
Label: ANTI-
Genre: Alt-country, folk rock
Comments: From ANTI- (Neko Case, Dr. Dog, Os Mutantes, Tom Waits): "Legendary musician Roky Erickson triumphantly returns with True Love Cast Out All Evil, his first new album in 14 years, produced by Will Sheff from Okkervil River, and featuring Will and Okkervil as Erickson's backing band. True Love Cast Out All Evil is comprised largely of unreleased songs that Austin native Erickson wrote throughout his decades-long career--detailing with heartbreaking candor a harrowing life that has included shock treatment, imprisonment, mental illness, and irreversible loss. With a wisdom that can only be marshaled by someone who has been through all of this, Erickson also interjects the songs with love, hope, and spiritual grace.
"While True Love Cast Out All Evil echoes the many musical styles in which Erickson has been a participant or a pioneer--including garage-rock, lo-fi psych, heavy metal, and country-tinged Texas folk--it also moves Erickson into new territory, foregrounding his songwriting skill. In these songs, Erickson addresses his troubled history in his own words, eschewing the metaphors of earlier songs like 'I Walked with a Zombie' to speak directly about hardship and the lessons learned from it. Will Sheff's production highlights the songs while interweaving them with found-sound and archival recordings culled from Erickson's home videos and recordings made in the Rusk State Hospital for the Criminally Insane.
"This is not a cynical comeback record, a lukewarm update on an established legacy--these are the best songs Roky has ever written, unreleased due to decades of personal problems."
I wanted to write my own review of this record, but as I can't top that one, I'll simply expound on it. This is one of the best and most significant releases of 2010; it's amazing to think that someone who has had such a tough life could still make art this beautiful and moving. It's also not what I would have expected from the "founding father of psychedelic rock;" True Love Cast Out All Evil is definitely a Texas country-rock record--thus the sensible and excellent decision to enlist the help of Sheff and Okkervil River.
Check out "Goodbye Sweet Dreams," "Bring Back the Past," "Be and Bring Me Home" and the title track.
herMajesty
Add Date: April 13
Artist: herMajesty
Album: Images from the Vanishing Night (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, dream pop
Comments: This New York band makes dreamy, New Wave pop that will appeal to fans of The Cloud Room and The Stills. Start with "Operator (NYC)."
Artist: herMajesty
Album: Images from the Vanishing Night (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, dream pop
Comments: This New York band makes dreamy, New Wave pop that will appeal to fans of The Cloud Room and The Stills. Start with "Operator (NYC)."
MGMT
Add Date: April 13
Artist: MGMT
Album: Congratulations
Label: Columbia
Genre: Rock, psych rock
Comments: MGMT's 2008 debut, Oracular Spectacular, quickly propelled the band to stardom. "Kids" and "Electric Feel" had great crossover appeal, and "Weekend Wars" and "The Youth" were pretty solid jams, too. But without looking, can you name a single track from the second half of that LP? Didn't think so.
For the followup, Ben Goldwasser and Andrew Van Wyngarden have made their first really good album. It's consistent from start to finish, yet it also may not be what you expect from MGMT. The band is less reliant on electropop flourishes, focusing more on psychedelia--which, while not necessarily prevalent, was certainly noticeable throughout Oracular Spectacular. That's not to say there aren't any danceable numbers or catchy singles (go right to "Flash Delirium" and then to "Brian Eno"), but when the band launches into a 12-minute, Pink Floyd-inspired jam like "Siberian Breaks," it makes sense in the context of the record as a whole. The band has hit its target on Congratulations; now, the big question is whether they'll reel in the casual fans who swayed along to "Kids."
Artist: MGMT
Album: Congratulations
Label: Columbia
Genre: Rock, psych rock
Comments: MGMT's 2008 debut, Oracular Spectacular, quickly propelled the band to stardom. "Kids" and "Electric Feel" had great crossover appeal, and "Weekend Wars" and "The Youth" were pretty solid jams, too. But without looking, can you name a single track from the second half of that LP? Didn't think so.
For the followup, Ben Goldwasser and Andrew Van Wyngarden have made their first really good album. It's consistent from start to finish, yet it also may not be what you expect from MGMT. The band is less reliant on electropop flourishes, focusing more on psychedelia--which, while not necessarily prevalent, was certainly noticeable throughout Oracular Spectacular. That's not to say there aren't any danceable numbers or catchy singles (go right to "Flash Delirium" and then to "Brian Eno"), but when the band launches into a 12-minute, Pink Floyd-inspired jam like "Siberian Breaks," it makes sense in the context of the record as a whole. The band has hit its target on Congratulations; now, the big question is whether they'll reel in the casual fans who swayed along to "Kids."
The Morgansterns
Add Date: April 13
Artist: The Morgansterns
Album: No Talking
Label: Microhits
Genre: Rock
Comments: This album is a case in point for NOT judging a book by its cover--the cardboard sleeve and 5-minutes-in-Photoshop cover led me to believe I'd be tossing this record after 30 seconds. However, this L.A. band has a very pleasant take on classic rock. As the onesheet explains: "Gritty melodic rock meets a wall of blazing guitars [and] organ, with a driving '70s rock rhythm section and spine-tingling hooks that will take you on a kaleidoscopic journey from the hopped up riffs of 'Never Take Me Down' to the slowburn of 'What You Need Is' to the moody 'In the End'."
Artist: The Morgansterns
Album: No Talking
Label: Microhits
Genre: Rock
Comments: This album is a case in point for NOT judging a book by its cover--the cardboard sleeve and 5-minutes-in-Photoshop cover led me to believe I'd be tossing this record after 30 seconds. However, this L.A. band has a very pleasant take on classic rock. As the onesheet explains: "Gritty melodic rock meets a wall of blazing guitars [and] organ, with a driving '70s rock rhythm section and spine-tingling hooks that will take you on a kaleidoscopic journey from the hopped up riffs of 'Never Take Me Down' to the slowburn of 'What You Need Is' to the moody 'In the End'."
Friday, April 9, 2010
Harlem
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Harlem
Album: Hippies
Label: Matador
Genre: Rock
Comments: This Austin-via-Tucson band makes its debut on Matador (Ted Leo & the Pharmacists, Pavement, Yo La Tengo). From the record label: "Harlem = dual vocalists Coomers and Curtis, who switch between guitar and drums, and 'gentlemen bass player from Mexico City' Jose Boyer. Harlem have already generated a mountain of attention stateside, both with their fantastic live shows and their recorded output...
"Harlem first came to people's attention with their self-issued 2008 album, Free Drugs. Pitchfork's Roque Strew hailed it 'a marvel of cartoonishly masculine, crudely analog brevity', [while] Gorilla Vs. Bear considered it to be 'super infectious, instantly endearing.' ... Harlem now make their Matador debut with Hippies, a 16-track garage pop meisterwerk that reveals the triumvirate to still be in fine fettle."
Check out "Friendly Ghost," "Tila and I," "Spray Paint" and "Faces."
Artist: Harlem
Album: Hippies
Label: Matador
Genre: Rock
Comments: This Austin-via-Tucson band makes its debut on Matador (Ted Leo & the Pharmacists, Pavement, Yo La Tengo). From the record label: "Harlem = dual vocalists Coomers and Curtis, who switch between guitar and drums, and 'gentlemen bass player from Mexico City' Jose Boyer. Harlem have already generated a mountain of attention stateside, both with their fantastic live shows and their recorded output...
"Harlem first came to people's attention with their self-issued 2008 album, Free Drugs. Pitchfork's Roque Strew hailed it 'a marvel of cartoonishly masculine, crudely analog brevity', [while] Gorilla Vs. Bear considered it to be 'super infectious, instantly endearing.' ... Harlem now make their Matador debut with Hippies, a 16-track garage pop meisterwerk that reveals the triumvirate to still be in fine fettle."
Check out "Friendly Ghost," "Tila and I," "Spray Paint" and "Faces."
The Apples in stereo
Add Date: April 6
Artist: The Apples in stereo
Album: Travellers in Space and Time
Label: Yep Roc
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Elephant 6 veterans The Apples in stereo channel ELO and Hall & Oates on Travellers in Space and Time, their helplessly addictive new LP. The 6-piece, fronted by indie rock behemoth Robert Schneider, has always been obsessed with great studio work, so this is one of the tightest-sounding bands you'll hear. Good luck trying to avoid dancing, or at least some serious foot-tapping, on "Dream About the Future," "Dance Floor" and "No One in the World."
Artist: The Apples in stereo
Album: Travellers in Space and Time
Label: Yep Roc
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Elephant 6 veterans The Apples in stereo channel ELO and Hall & Oates on Travellers in Space and Time, their helplessly addictive new LP. The 6-piece, fronted by indie rock behemoth Robert Schneider, has always been obsessed with great studio work, so this is one of the tightest-sounding bands you'll hear. Good luck trying to avoid dancing, or at least some serious foot-tapping, on "Dream About the Future," "Dance Floor" and "No One in the World."
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Legendary Shack Shakers
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Legendary Shack Shakers
Album: Agridustrial
Label: Thirty Tigers
Genre: Blues, rock
Comments: A hell of a wallop of a record. Fast, gritty, grungy, raw, fuzzy -- the adjectives pile together, but in a very, very good way. Country meets blues meets hard rock on the band's ridiculously-titled Agridustrial. The promoter writes: "Even the sound of Agridustrial is a direct response to the present day recession in foreshadowing the looming collapse that awaits to return us back to self-sufficiency. The band went to a blacksmith forge and recorded the sounds of hammers, anvils, tongs, cranks and chains for much of the percussion of the album."
Artist: Legendary Shack Shakers
Album: Agridustrial
Label: Thirty Tigers
Genre: Blues, rock
Comments: A hell of a wallop of a record. Fast, gritty, grungy, raw, fuzzy -- the adjectives pile together, but in a very, very good way. Country meets blues meets hard rock on the band's ridiculously-titled Agridustrial. The promoter writes: "Even the sound of Agridustrial is a direct response to the present day recession in foreshadowing the looming collapse that awaits to return us back to self-sufficiency. The band went to a blacksmith forge and recorded the sounds of hammers, anvils, tongs, cranks and chains for much of the percussion of the album."
Hey, if it works, it works. And a lot of time it does with the Legendary Shack Shakers, who both Jello Biafra and Hank Williams III love. Check out "Sin Eater" and "Sugar Baby" for a pair of good ones.
Kings Go Forth
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Kings Go Forth
Album: The Outsiders Are Back
Label: Luaka Bop
Genre: Soul, groove
Comments: "Kings Go Forth will strike you with a soul-bolt right where you need it most -- if your hips need some swaying or if you arms need some shaking -- KGF have got you covered" (Terrorbird). This 10-piece out of Milwaukee is a whole lot of Daptone and offers enough energy to replace your morning coffee. "Don't Take My Shadow" is a stellar first single, but don't miss "Paradise Lost" and "One Day." Too much soul.
Artist: Kings Go Forth
Album: The Outsiders Are Back
Label: Luaka Bop
Genre: Soul, groove
Comments: "Kings Go Forth will strike you with a soul-bolt right where you need it most -- if your hips need some swaying or if you arms need some shaking -- KGF have got you covered" (Terrorbird). This 10-piece out of Milwaukee is a whole lot of Daptone and offers enough energy to replace your morning coffee. "Don't Take My Shadow" is a stellar first single, but don't miss "Paradise Lost" and "One Day." Too much soul.
The Knew
Add Date: April 13
Artist: The Knew
Album: The Knew's Pulperia
Label: SFP
Genre: Rock, garage
Comments: The Onion says it well: "The Knew artfully pulls from a variety of Southern and modern rock influences... Pulperia is ultimately a rich, enjoyable listen. The record owes some of its success to impeccable production, but even more to the evolution of The Knew as a band."
This is only their debut full-length, but in addition to showing a lot of spunk, The Knew shows a lot of musical promise: influenced by White Stripes-style blues rock and other straight-out-of-Detroit rock'n'roll, it's hard to believe these dudes are from Denver. Start with "United" and "Citytown."
Artist: The Knew
Album: The Knew's Pulperia
Label: SFP
Genre: Rock, garage
Comments: The Onion says it well: "The Knew artfully pulls from a variety of Southern and modern rock influences... Pulperia is ultimately a rich, enjoyable listen. The record owes some of its success to impeccable production, but even more to the evolution of The Knew as a band."
This is only their debut full-length, but in addition to showing a lot of spunk, The Knew shows a lot of musical promise: influenced by White Stripes-style blues rock and other straight-out-of-Detroit rock'n'roll, it's hard to believe these dudes are from Denver. Start with "United" and "Citytown."
Automatic Children
Add Date: April 13
Artist: Automatic Children
Album: New is Beautiful
Label: Static Eye
Genre: Rock
Comments: A very solid release from a band that was named one of the top NYC bands by The Deli magazine a whopping two times. Deli writes, "Unselfconsciously, Automatic Children play psych-influenced and alternative rock in the style of some of the 90s' best -- a comparison to Brian Jonestown Massacre (without all the crazy) wouldn't be totally out of order."
Well put. Raw and rollicking, but if you're a fan of the slower stuff, check out the fantastic "Be Here Now."
Artist: Automatic Children
Album: New is Beautiful
Label: Static Eye
Genre: Rock
Comments: A very solid release from a band that was named one of the top NYC bands by The Deli magazine a whopping two times. Deli writes, "Unselfconsciously, Automatic Children play psych-influenced and alternative rock in the style of some of the 90s' best -- a comparison to Brian Jonestown Massacre (without all the crazy) wouldn't be totally out of order."
Well put. Raw and rollicking, but if you're a fan of the slower stuff, check out the fantastic "Be Here Now."
Best New Music - April 6
Check these records out:
Dr. Dog
The Tallest Man on Earth
Kaki King
matt pond PA
Freelance Whales
And do give these a listen: Machester Orchestra, Laura Marling, Black Prairie, Black Francis, Jonsi, Harlem, The Apples in stereo
Dr. Dog
The Tallest Man on Earth
Kaki King
matt pond PA
Freelance Whales
And do give these a listen: Machester Orchestra, Laura Marling, Black Prairie, Black Francis, Jonsi, Harlem, The Apples in stereo
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Jonsi (of Sigur Ros)
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Jonsi (of Sigur Ros)
Album: Go
Label: XL
Genre: hm...
Comments: From promoter: ""Acoustic" isn't the first word that springs to mind listening to Go. Joyous, exhilarating and fearless, maybe. Ecstatic, dramatic and alive, perhaps. As an album it's more wild extravaganza than solipsistic rumination, even though it all did start out on just guitar, piano or harmonium. Much of the way it has grown and evolved has to do with Jonsi's choice of free-spirited collaborators. All the album's arrangements are by Nico Muhly, the Philip Glass protege known for his work with Bjork, Bonnie "Prince" Billy, Antony & the Johnsons and Grizzly Bear."
Artist: Jonsi (of Sigur Ros)
Album: Go
Label: XL
Genre: hm...
Comments: From promoter: ""Acoustic" isn't the first word that springs to mind listening to Go. Joyous, exhilarating and fearless, maybe. Ecstatic, dramatic and alive, perhaps. As an album it's more wild extravaganza than solipsistic rumination, even though it all did start out on just guitar, piano or harmonium. Much of the way it has grown and evolved has to do with Jonsi's choice of free-spirited collaborators. All the album's arrangements are by Nico Muhly, the Philip Glass protege known for his work with Bjork, Bonnie "Prince" Billy, Antony & the Johnsons and Grizzly Bear."
Jonsi strikes again. On his own this time. Non-fans of Sigur Ros can enjoy, too, I think. Some songs are in English for us mortals who don't understand Icelandic. Check out "Boy Lilikoi" for example. Go to "Hengils" for something more mellow (but lovely nonetheless).
Freelance Whales
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Freelance Whales
Album: Weathervanes
Label: Mom + Pop Music
Genre: Indie Pop
Comments: From the promoter: "Weathervanes, the group's debut LP...[is] [s]wirling with organic and synthetic textures, interlocking rhythmic patterns, and light harmonic vocals. [T]he record works to tell a simple, pre-adolescent love story: a young male falls in love with the spectral young femme who haunts his childhood home. He chases her in his dreams but finds her to be mostly elusive. He imagines her alive, and wonders if someday he'll take on her responsibilities of ghosting, or if maybe he'll join her, elsewhere".
Artist: Freelance Whales
Album: Weathervanes
Label: Mom + Pop Music
Genre: Indie Pop
Comments: From the promoter: "Weathervanes, the group's debut LP...[is] [s]wirling with organic and synthetic textures, interlocking rhythmic patterns, and light harmonic vocals. [T]he record works to tell a simple, pre-adolescent love story: a young male falls in love with the spectral young femme who haunts his childhood home. He chases her in his dreams but finds her to be mostly elusive. He imagines her alive, and wonders if someday he'll take on her responsibilities of ghosting, or if maybe he'll join her, elsewhere".
Adorable. A better Postal Service, if you ask me. I particularly liked 1 and 2.
The Tallest Man on Earth
Add Date: April 6
Artist: The Tallest Man on Earth
Album: The Wild Hunt
Label: Dead Oceans
Genre: Folk, singer-songwriter
Comments: Second album from lovely Swedish folksinger Kristian Mattson aka The Tallest Man on Earth. I have just discovered him a few weeks back and I've been in love ever since. If that's not enough of an incentive for you to give it a listen (haha), here's what the promoter has to say: "The Wild Hunt picks up where Shallow Grave left off, with Mattson doing what he does best. It is unmistakbly The Tallest Man on Earth, from the urgent strums of "You're Going Back" and the sweet melodies of "Love is All," to the playful lyricism of live favorite "King of Spain" and the subtle hook on "Burden of Tomorrow." The Wild Hunt isn't just another folk album; this is acoustic rock'n'roll from a man with a story to tell."
La Strada
Add Date: April 6
Artist: La Strada
Album: New Home
Label: Ernest Jenning Recording Co.
Genre: Indie rock (with a bit of folk influence)
Comments: The first LP from Brooklyn's La Strada, New Home, is sure to be one of this spring's best. Drawing appropriate comparisons to Beirut, Neutral Milk Hotel, and Arcade Fire due to their full sound and use of instruments, La Strada's music is grand but not overwhelming, full of quiter moments, soaring vocals, and strings weaving through most tracks. Eclectic but still consistent, the record isn't thematic but instead exploratory. And success! The result is a gorgeous, full-bodied sound that highlights the careful musical arrangements and the honest vocals. Start with tracks 1, 3, 5, and 13.
Artist: La Strada
Album: New Home
Label: Ernest Jenning Recording Co.
Genre: Indie rock (with a bit of folk influence)
Comments: The first LP from Brooklyn's La Strada, New Home, is sure to be one of this spring's best. Drawing appropriate comparisons to Beirut, Neutral Milk Hotel, and Arcade Fire due to their full sound and use of instruments, La Strada's music is grand but not overwhelming, full of quiter moments, soaring vocals, and strings weaving through most tracks. Eclectic but still consistent, the record isn't thematic but instead exploratory. And success! The result is a gorgeous, full-bodied sound that highlights the careful musical arrangements and the honest vocals. Start with tracks 1, 3, 5, and 13.
Bonnie "Prince" Billy & The Cairo Gang
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Bonnie "Prince" Billy & The Cairo Gang
Album: The Wonder Show of the World
Label: Palace/Drag City
Genre: Folk
Comments: Bonnie "Prince" Billy is legitimately one of the most talented musicians out there today (and hardworking--he's released an album every year since 2001), and his latest release with the Cairo Gang, titled The Wonder Show of the World is another gem. Exceptional lyricism couples with gentle but appropriate and well-placed guitar work from Emmet Kelly (The Cairo Gang, previously worked on Lie Down in the Light), and the result is an undeniably gorgeous record. Delicate but far from boring; start with tracks 1, 4, 5, and 10. And then listen to all his other records, and be awed.
Artist: Bonnie "Prince" Billy & The Cairo Gang
Album: The Wonder Show of the World
Label: Palace/Drag City
Genre: Folk
Comments: Bonnie "Prince" Billy is legitimately one of the most talented musicians out there today (and hardworking--he's released an album every year since 2001), and his latest release with the Cairo Gang, titled The Wonder Show of the World is another gem. Exceptional lyricism couples with gentle but appropriate and well-placed guitar work from Emmet Kelly (The Cairo Gang, previously worked on Lie Down in the Light), and the result is an undeniably gorgeous record. Delicate but far from boring; start with tracks 1, 4, 5, and 10. And then listen to all his other records, and be awed.
In Tall Buildings
Add Date: April 6
Artist: In Tall Buildings
Album: In Tall Buildings
Label: Whistler
Genre: Singer-Songwriter
Comments: From AAM: "Bubbling synth sequences, driving distorted drum beats, interwoven finger-picked guitars, and pulsing woodwind chorales all find their way into the mix". Another singer-songwriter debut, but this time for a multi-instrumentalist (Erik Hall) who clearly knows the benefits of creatively layering tracks and shying away from the traditional vocal-and-guitar-only approach. The result is 8 tracks of intriguing rhythms and harmonies; start with tracks 1, 2, and 6.
Artist: In Tall Buildings
Album: In Tall Buildings
Label: Whistler
Genre: Singer-Songwriter
Comments: From AAM: "Bubbling synth sequences, driving distorted drum beats, interwoven finger-picked guitars, and pulsing woodwind chorales all find their way into the mix". Another singer-songwriter debut, but this time for a multi-instrumentalist (Erik Hall) who clearly knows the benefits of creatively layering tracks and shying away from the traditional vocal-and-guitar-only approach. The result is 8 tracks of intriguing rhythms and harmonies; start with tracks 1, 2, and 6.
The Secret History
Add Date: April 6
Artist: The Secret History
Album: The World That Never Was
Label: Le Grand Magistery
Genre: Pop
Comments: Hooks abound on The Secret History's latest offering, The World That Never Was, showcasing quirkly female vocals from Lisa Ronson that subsequently highlight Michael Grace, Jr.'s (of The Favorites) lyrics about "monsters, ghosts, and fables impressions on the city that never sleeps". Nodding to the Smiths, these guitar grounded tracks are well-done indie-pop done right. Track tracks 1, 5, and 7.
Artist: The Secret History
Album: The World That Never Was
Label: Le Grand Magistery
Genre: Pop
Comments: Hooks abound on The Secret History's latest offering, The World That Never Was, showcasing quirkly female vocals from Lisa Ronson that subsequently highlight Michael Grace, Jr.'s (of The Favorites) lyrics about "monsters, ghosts, and fables impressions on the city that never sleeps". Nodding to the Smiths, these guitar grounded tracks are well-done indie-pop done right. Track tracks 1, 5, and 7.
Nedry
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Nedry
Album: Condors
Label: Monotreme
Genre: Electonic/Alternative
Comments: From AAM: "Heavy late-night beats, dubstep basslines, ripples of guitar, ethereal female vocals, subtle moments of post rock swells and nods to triphop + dubstep artists such as Massive Attack, Portishead & Burial, make up the magnificent debut from London-based trio Nedry." Super ambient and dense, but given an otherwordly vibe thanks to the light vocals. Start with tracks 1, 2, and 7.
Artist: Nedry
Album: Condors
Label: Monotreme
Genre: Electonic/Alternative
Comments: From AAM: "Heavy late-night beats, dubstep basslines, ripples of guitar, ethereal female vocals, subtle moments of post rock swells and nods to triphop + dubstep artists such as Massive Attack, Portishead & Burial, make up the magnificent debut from London-based trio Nedry." Super ambient and dense, but given an otherwordly vibe thanks to the light vocals. Start with tracks 1, 2, and 7.
The Dead Weather
Add Date: April 6
Artist: The Dead Weather
Album: Die By The Drop (single)
Label: Third Man/Warner Brothers
Genre: Rock
Comments: Excellent, heavy single with great guitar work and group vocals from the Dead Weather (Alison Mosshart of the Kills, Jack Lawrence of the Raconteurs, Dean Feritita of Queens of the Stone Age, and Jack White). Honestly, I don't think I'll ever get tired of Jack White side-projects.
Artist: The Dead Weather
Album: Die By The Drop (single)
Label: Third Man/Warner Brothers
Genre: Rock
Comments: Excellent, heavy single with great guitar work and group vocals from the Dead Weather (Alison Mosshart of the Kills, Jack Lawrence of the Raconteurs, Dean Feritita of Queens of the Stone Age, and Jack White). Honestly, I don't think I'll ever get tired of Jack White side-projects.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Manchester Orchestra
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Machester Orchestra
Album: Live at Park Ave. (EP)
Label: Favorite Gentlemen/Columbia
Genre: Indie rock, folk
Comments: I absolutely love this record. I've heard the band's name floating around for awhile now, but I cannot get enough of this stellar live EP from these Georgia boys, who sound to me like a mix of Damien Rice, The Low Anthem, and Bright Eyes. Now you see where my true colors lie.
Artist: Machester Orchestra
Album: Live at Park Ave. (EP)
Label: Favorite Gentlemen/Columbia
Genre: Indie rock, folk
Comments: I absolutely love this record. I've heard the band's name floating around for awhile now, but I cannot get enough of this stellar live EP from these Georgia boys, who sound to me like a mix of Damien Rice, The Low Anthem, and Bright Eyes. Now you see where my true colors lie.
This 7-song EP was recorded live in Orlando last summer and presents a more stripped-down version of the Orchestra, with the vocals often being the loudest instruments in the mix. Somber, soulful, and sweet, check this record out. The songs really translate well acoustic and live. Start with "Shake It Out " and "Tony the Tiger."
Disgust of Us
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Disgust of Us
Album: Disgust of Us
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, punk
Comments: Occasionally fierce, but equally run-of-the-mill, Disgust of Us is a female-fronted California-based semi-punk band that sometimes strays into Thursday (the band, not the day) territory on its self-titled debut record. "Skin and Bones" is a pretty fine track, but I found some of the slower tunes (like "Dearly Departed") nothing to write home about.
Artist: Disgust of Us
Album: Disgust of Us
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, punk
Comments: Occasionally fierce, but equally run-of-the-mill, Disgust of Us is a female-fronted California-based semi-punk band that sometimes strays into Thursday (the band, not the day) territory on its self-titled debut record. "Skin and Bones" is a pretty fine track, but I found some of the slower tunes (like "Dearly Departed") nothing to write home about.
Black Francis
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Black Francis
Album: Nonstoperotik
Label: Cooking Vinyl
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: Another release from Black Francis (a.k.a. Pixies frontman Frank Black), which makes Nonstoperotik something like his 19th solo record since the early '90s dissolution of Pixies. While that band is revived and kicking, Black Francis is making fine tunes in the pop vein on this record, which is set to be accompanied by a Judy Jacob film. The record was recorded in Brooklyn, Los Angeles, and "a haunted studio in London," the last of which shines out on tracks like "Wild Son." Overall, not quite a new Pixies record and not Black's best (my favorites include his folk-country romp Honeycomb and Teenager of the Year), but "Six Legged Man" and "Corrina" are still quality tunes.
Artist: Black Francis
Album: Nonstoperotik
Label: Cooking Vinyl
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: Another release from Black Francis (a.k.a. Pixies frontman Frank Black), which makes Nonstoperotik something like his 19th solo record since the early '90s dissolution of Pixies. While that band is revived and kicking, Black Francis is making fine tunes in the pop vein on this record, which is set to be accompanied by a Judy Jacob film. The record was recorded in Brooklyn, Los Angeles, and "a haunted studio in London," the last of which shines out on tracks like "Wild Son." Overall, not quite a new Pixies record and not Black's best (my favorites include his folk-country romp Honeycomb and Teenager of the Year), but "Six Legged Man" and "Corrina" are still quality tunes.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Gospel Claws
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Gospel Claws
Album: Gospel Claws (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: I think my favorite part about this band is that they're name is descriptive the music (and not in a overtly cheesy way): The "Gospel" produces itself the backing harmonies of oo's and ahh's and the sometimes present organ melodies, and the "Claws" best describe the poppy hooks of the vocal melodies and guitar riffs.
This isn't a change-your-life-it's-so-good band, but they're doing something worth acknowledging and checking out. Hailing from Phoenix, AZ, Gospel Claws releases this self-titled ep as a debut to the national scene and a precursor to their full length album to be released in the Fall of 2010. The promoter states that if you're a fan of Blitzen Trapper, The Walkmen, or Tapes 'n Tapes, you would enjoy Gospel Claws.
Start with 1, and 2.
Artist: Gospel Claws
Album: Gospel Claws (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: I think my favorite part about this band is that they're name is descriptive the music (and not in a overtly cheesy way): The "Gospel" produces itself the backing harmonies of oo's and ahh's and the sometimes present organ melodies, and the "Claws" best describe the poppy hooks of the vocal melodies and guitar riffs.
This isn't a change-your-life-it's-so-good band, but they're doing something worth acknowledging and checking out. Hailing from Phoenix, AZ, Gospel Claws releases this self-titled ep as a debut to the national scene and a precursor to their full length album to be released in the Fall of 2010. The promoter states that if you're a fan of Blitzen Trapper, The Walkmen, or Tapes 'n Tapes, you would enjoy Gospel Claws.
Start with 1, and 2.
Laura Marling
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Laura Marling
Album: I Speak Because I Can
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk/Americana/Rock/English folk
Comments: It's English, it's folkish, it's fun but still moving--It's Laura Marling! The promoter says: "For all its American instrumentation, its shades of Crosby Stills and Nash, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Leonard Cohen, its American producer, these songs are no pale Americana interpretation; rather they are tales deeply rooted in England." I'd connect Ms. Marling as the female counterpart to Damien Rice, which is not a likening I would not hand out lightly.
Just one listen in, I was convinced anyone would loves these songs--but the better part of this thought is that I am still unsure why I believe this. Ms. Marling is certainly a folk artist, which not everyone can get there toe tappin' to. Maybe it is the contrast between her English accent and the banjo picking, or the seamless blending between her melodies and the string instruments, or the simple guitar riffs mixed in with piano layers that draw me in, and I am sure they will do the same for you. The song "Rambling Man" could easily be found on a big-named artist's album, showing that Ms. Marling's songwriting abilities are beyond the recognition her career has received thus far.
Start with 3 ("Rambling Man"), 1, and 4.
Artist: Laura Marling
Album: I Speak Because I Can
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk/Americana/Rock/English folk
Comments: It's English, it's folkish, it's fun but still moving--It's Laura Marling! The promoter says: "For all its American instrumentation, its shades of Crosby Stills and Nash, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Leonard Cohen, its American producer, these songs are no pale Americana interpretation; rather they are tales deeply rooted in England." I'd connect Ms. Marling as the female counterpart to Damien Rice, which is not a likening I would not hand out lightly.
Just one listen in, I was convinced anyone would loves these songs--but the better part of this thought is that I am still unsure why I believe this. Ms. Marling is certainly a folk artist, which not everyone can get there toe tappin' to. Maybe it is the contrast between her English accent and the banjo picking, or the seamless blending between her melodies and the string instruments, or the simple guitar riffs mixed in with piano layers that draw me in, and I am sure they will do the same for you. The song "Rambling Man" could easily be found on a big-named artist's album, showing that Ms. Marling's songwriting abilities are beyond the recognition her career has received thus far.
Start with 3 ("Rambling Man"), 1, and 4.
Kaki King
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Kaki King
Album: Junior
Label: Rounder
Genre: Rock
Comments: Kaki King is known best for being an amazing guitarist. Rolling Stone even declared her a "guitar god" in its February 2006 issue, making King the first female to earn that recognition. Her previous albums focus on this ability, offering songs of complex guitar riffs, unique playings styles and pyrotechnic-sounding sonics.
Junior is a departure from this instrumental-based songwriting and shows that King has, in the promoter's words, "matured" into a songwriter that places emphasis on vocal melodies and song structure. In other words, Junior is way more accessible than her past albums. Nevertheless, King finds the space to showoff her skills, the guitar riffs are trance-inducing, her unique playing style is still clearly evident, and the purely instrumental songs are still scattered throughout this album.
If you have an interest in hearing the best female guitarist of our time, or if you enjoy accessible but still musically complex and impressive songs, you need to listen to this album. Start with 4, 2, and 3, you'll be happy you did.
DNP: 10 (at least, but it's still a good song)
Artist: Kaki King
Album: Junior
Label: Rounder
Genre: Rock
Comments: Kaki King is known best for being an amazing guitarist. Rolling Stone even declared her a "guitar god" in its February 2006 issue, making King the first female to earn that recognition. Her previous albums focus on this ability, offering songs of complex guitar riffs, unique playings styles and pyrotechnic-sounding sonics.
Junior is a departure from this instrumental-based songwriting and shows that King has, in the promoter's words, "matured" into a songwriter that places emphasis on vocal melodies and song structure. In other words, Junior is way more accessible than her past albums. Nevertheless, King finds the space to showoff her skills, the guitar riffs are trance-inducing, her unique playing style is still clearly evident, and the purely instrumental songs are still scattered throughout this album.
If you have an interest in hearing the best female guitarist of our time, or if you enjoy accessible but still musically complex and impressive songs, you need to listen to this album. Start with 4, 2, and 3, you'll be happy you did.
DNP: 10 (at least, but it's still a good song)
Sunday, April 4, 2010
John Grant
Add Date: April 6
Artist: John Grant
Album: Queen of Denmark
Label: Bella Union
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Denver's John Grant is as talented as he is cynical. 'We just had so much hatred for each other that we couldn't carry on,' says Grant of his relationship with former band members from The Czars. 'I spent about a year thinking I must kill myself.' But in the end that vitriol, spawned by growing up gay in stifling small-town America, resulted as artistic fuel-- thanks to acclaimed Texas band Midlake. The band befriended Grant and invited him into their studio, serving as his backing band, where they recorded and produced Queen of Denmark, his solo debut. 'What those guys did for me, I can't thank them enough.' Recalling the halcyon days of 70s AM gold, Queen of Denmark is partly the product of a pension for his parents' 8-tracks and his still-raw emotional wounds."
Recommended for fans of Tim Buckley, The Czars and Randy Newman. Check out "Leopard and Lamb."
Yep Roc
Artist: John Grant
Album: Queen of Denmark
Label: Bella Union
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Denver's John Grant is as talented as he is cynical. 'We just had so much hatred for each other that we couldn't carry on,' says Grant of his relationship with former band members from The Czars. 'I spent about a year thinking I must kill myself.' But in the end that vitriol, spawned by growing up gay in stifling small-town America, resulted as artistic fuel-- thanks to acclaimed Texas band Midlake. The band befriended Grant and invited him into their studio, serving as his backing band, where they recorded and produced Queen of Denmark, his solo debut. 'What those guys did for me, I can't thank them enough.' Recalling the halcyon days of 70s AM gold, Queen of Denmark is partly the product of a pension for his parents' 8-tracks and his still-raw emotional wounds."
Recommended for fans of Tim Buckley, The Czars and Randy Newman. Check out "Leopard and Lamb."
Yep Roc
David Byrne & Fatboy Slim
Add Date: April 6
Artist: David Bryne & Fatboy Slim
Album: Here Lies Love
Label: Todomundo/Nonesuch
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"David Byrne & Fatboy Slim have paired up for a 22-track song cycle about the life of former First Lady of the Phillipines Imelda Marcos and her childhood servant, Estrella Cumpas."
This dramatic and ambitious album features performances from Tori Amos, Martha Wainwright, Nellie McCay, Steve Earle, Sharon Jones, Santigold, and St. Vincent. I found the entire first disc to be nearly totally unpalatable, as it reminded me of bad karaoke or (bad Fatboy Slim). The second album has a few enjoyable songs-- though even they have a pretty strong disco vibe. I'd recommend "Men Will Do Anything" or "Never So Big." Maybe I just didn't give the whole concept enough time.
Artist: David Bryne & Fatboy Slim
Album: Here Lies Love
Label: Todomundo/Nonesuch
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"David Byrne & Fatboy Slim have paired up for a 22-track song cycle about the life of former First Lady of the Phillipines Imelda Marcos and her childhood servant, Estrella Cumpas."
This dramatic and ambitious album features performances from Tori Amos, Martha Wainwright, Nellie McCay, Steve Earle, Sharon Jones, Santigold, and St. Vincent. I found the entire first disc to be nearly totally unpalatable, as it reminded me of bad karaoke or (bad Fatboy Slim). The second album has a few enjoyable songs-- though even they have a pretty strong disco vibe. I'd recommend "Men Will Do Anything" or "Never So Big." Maybe I just didn't give the whole concept enough time.
Black Prairie
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Black Prairie
Album: Feast of the Hunter's Moon
Label: Sugar Hill
Genre: Folk, indie
Comments: From NPR :
"Listening to Black Prairie's debut, Feast of the Hunter's Moon, is like walking onto the set of an HBO show about fear, longing, betrayal and loneliness — think Deadwood, or maybe Six Feet Under. The music created by this Portland, Ore.-based quintet sounds as if it comes from a different time and place. According to dobroist Chris Funk, that's the point; he says the sound Black Prairie makes "bridges the music of Clarence White and Ennio Morricone." In other words, it's a sound which defies any kind of genre characterization.
Artist: Black Prairie
Album: Feast of the Hunter's Moon
Label: Sugar Hill
Genre: Folk, indie
Comments: From NPR :
"Listening to Black Prairie's debut, Feast of the Hunter's Moon, is like walking onto the set of an HBO show about fear, longing, betrayal and loneliness — think Deadwood, or maybe Six Feet Under. The music created by this Portland, Ore.-based quintet sounds as if it comes from a different time and place. According to dobroist Chris Funk, that's the point; he says the sound Black Prairie makes "bridges the music of Clarence White and Ennio Morricone." In other words, it's a sound which defies any kind of genre characterization.
The musicians themselves do, too. The quintet was started by two members of The Decemberists: guitarist Chris Funk and bassist Nate Query. They decided to start a primarily instrumental string band as a way to present music that didn't really work with The Decemberists' sound. They asked another Decemberist, Jenny Conlee, to play accordion, and invited Portland musicians Annalisa Tornfelt and Jon Neufeld (Dolorean) to add their talents as violinist/vocalist and guitarist, respectively.
Black Prairie's songs consist mostly of instrumentals, and their arrangements pull from bluegrass and old-time string-band traditions. But Black Prairie adds its own twist, mixing accordion and violin to mimic Eastern European sounds, while also incorporating Tornfelt's vocals on a few selections."
Most of the tracks are instrumental, but I most enjoyed the ones featuring Conlee's vocals-- check out the radio edit of "Red Rocking Guitar."
Team Clermont
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Mark Sultan
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Mark Sultan
Album: $
Label: Last Gang
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"Mark Sultan (aka BBQ if The King Khan & BBQ Show, member of The Almighty Defenders) is one of the main fixtures in the hybrid movement of doo-wop garage-rock and he's back with his sophomore album, $. With an instantly recognizable voice that conjures up Soul greats like Sam Cook and a unique sound that's all his own, Mark Sultan is an unsung hero in modern rock n' roll. Drawing from his usual influences, Mark has managed to forge an inventive and captivatingly original record. Doo-wop, R&B, punk, soul, garage-rock, psych, country and even noise are blended into a seamless new sound that finds a place on the base of your spine and slowly crawls its way up! The record even features strings and female vocals!"
These aren't your momma's oldies. Mark Sultan sounds like American Graffiti meets The Clash meets Johnny Cash. Check out "Go Beserk."
Terrorbird
Artist: Mark Sultan
Album: $
Label: Last Gang
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter:
"Mark Sultan (aka BBQ if The King Khan & BBQ Show, member of The Almighty Defenders) is one of the main fixtures in the hybrid movement of doo-wop garage-rock and he's back with his sophomore album, $. With an instantly recognizable voice that conjures up Soul greats like Sam Cook and a unique sound that's all his own, Mark Sultan is an unsung hero in modern rock n' roll. Drawing from his usual influences, Mark has managed to forge an inventive and captivatingly original record. Doo-wop, R&B, punk, soul, garage-rock, psych, country and even noise are blended into a seamless new sound that finds a place on the base of your spine and slowly crawls its way up! The record even features strings and female vocals!"
These aren't your momma's oldies. Mark Sultan sounds like American Graffiti meets The Clash meets Johnny Cash. Check out "Go Beserk."
Terrorbird
matt pond PA
Add Date: April 6
Artist: matt pond PA
Album: The Dark Leaves
Label: Altitude
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"From a cabin in the woods outside of Bearsville, NY-- where there's nothing much to do but watch the grass grow up with the coyotes, deer, turkeys, and yes, bears-- Matt Pond let go of studio entanglements so he could hack off a piece of his own fate. .. [These songs] are far flung stories of heartache and pain and redemption. These are stories of pain where a person completely dives into their own pitch-black night and comes out again. These are also stories of when the dark finally leaves. ... After almost giving up on the world outside the woods, Matt Pond, with the invaluavle aid of Chris Hansen (engineer, co-producer) returns with The Dark Leaves. It's a record about surrendering and not, about having been done with darkness and having something to sing about."
Well, self-imposed isolation sure worked for Bon Iver when he made the stellar For Emma, Forever Ago and given the extent to which that story was publicized, it'd be surprising if Matt Pond didn't have it in mind while making The Dark Leaves. Anyway, something must about it must really work because while I'd never been much for Matt Pond before, this album is more attractive as it seems more earnest and less cutesy than what I remembered. For fans of Sea Wolf, M. Ward, and Mason Jennings. Check out "Remains" or "Ruins."
AAM
Artist: matt pond PA
Album: The Dark Leaves
Label: Altitude
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"From a cabin in the woods outside of Bearsville, NY-- where there's nothing much to do but watch the grass grow up with the coyotes, deer, turkeys, and yes, bears-- Matt Pond let go of studio entanglements so he could hack off a piece of his own fate. .. [These songs] are far flung stories of heartache and pain and redemption. These are stories of pain where a person completely dives into their own pitch-black night and comes out again. These are also stories of when the dark finally leaves. ... After almost giving up on the world outside the woods, Matt Pond, with the invaluavle aid of Chris Hansen (engineer, co-producer) returns with The Dark Leaves. It's a record about surrendering and not, about having been done with darkness and having something to sing about."
Well, self-imposed isolation sure worked for Bon Iver when he made the stellar For Emma, Forever Ago and given the extent to which that story was publicized, it'd be surprising if Matt Pond didn't have it in mind while making The Dark Leaves. Anyway, something must about it must really work because while I'd never been much for Matt Pond before, this album is more attractive as it seems more earnest and less cutesy than what I remembered. For fans of Sea Wolf, M. Ward, and Mason Jennings. Check out "Remains" or "Ruins."
AAM
Growing
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Growing
Album: Pumps
Label: VICE
Genre: Electronic, Noise
Comments: From The Decibel Tolls:
"The clairvoyant collective of sages and shamans, Growing, was first unleashed upon an unsuspecting Earth as an exercise in catastrophically loud guitar-based minimalism. With 2008’s All the Way, we saw the group move laterally into more focused, song-oriented, dynamic ambiance. Their latest, the monolithic PUMPS, sees Growing at the end of their transformation into a fully polyrhythmic unit that retains their certifiably alien sound. Wringing their trademark drones and guitar tones trough intense tremolo, quick pans, and sampler splicers to cultivate a cacophony of driving rhythms, Growing has created an 8-song sci-fi score that I could conceivably see Burning Man patrons dancing to in the future. It’s freaky, and it’s excellent. ...
Distiller
Artist: Growing
Album: Pumps
Label: VICE
Genre: Electronic, Noise
Comments: From The Decibel Tolls:
"The clairvoyant collective of sages and shamans, Growing, was first unleashed upon an unsuspecting Earth as an exercise in catastrophically loud guitar-based minimalism. With 2008’s All the Way, we saw the group move laterally into more focused, song-oriented, dynamic ambiance. Their latest, the monolithic PUMPS, sees Growing at the end of their transformation into a fully polyrhythmic unit that retains their certifiably alien sound. Wringing their trademark drones and guitar tones trough intense tremolo, quick pans, and sampler splicers to cultivate a cacophony of driving rhythms, Growing has created an 8-song sci-fi score that I could conceivably see Burning Man patrons dancing to in the future. It’s freaky, and it’s excellent. ...
PUMPS is the sound of pop music a couple of centuries into the future. Despite the destroyed and demented kaleidoscope of sharp textures and swooping noises that provoke and startle, PUMPS is replete with the type of visceral positivity that makes it an increasingly enjoyable, intriguing, and exciting listen. If you’re not a disciple yet, now’s the time."
Check out the well-balanced build-up of glitchy futuristic beats of "Hormone."Distiller
Secret & Whisper
Add Date: April 6
Artist: Secret & Whisper
Album: Teenage Fantasy
Label: Tooth & Nail
Genre: Alt, Rock, Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Retaining the same dense yet airy element to their music, the [album's] songs have a thicker and more aggressive rhythm section, giving a bombastic rock crunch to their shoe-gazing explorations and giving singer Charles Fourney the propulsion needed to take his vocals into arena sized choruses."
The kind of aggressive alt that could maybe be in the background on Laguna Beach (not my favorite genre, but I think people are pretty into it).
Planetary
Artist: Secret & Whisper
Album: Teenage Fantasy
Label: Tooth & Nail
Genre: Alt, Rock, Pop
Comments: From the promoter:
"Retaining the same dense yet airy element to their music, the [album's] songs have a thicker and more aggressive rhythm section, giving a bombastic rock crunch to their shoe-gazing explorations and giving singer Charles Fourney the propulsion needed to take his vocals into arena sized choruses."
The kind of aggressive alt that could maybe be in the background on Laguna Beach (not my favorite genre, but I think people are pretty into it).
Planetary
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