Dan Deacon shares new album info...Neil Young streams new album online...The Beach Boys share new track...Digital music is winning...Beck collaborates with Childish Gambino...What We Saw From The Cheap Seats...
Well, let's start with Dan Deacon. Now, I've never been a huge fan, but I have had this curiosity about Deacon's work that has spanned the last few years, and a friend once burned me a copy of Deacon's album A Spiderman in the Rings, but I lost it and never looked back, but I threw it out as another boring electronic musician that I could do without...until I heard the song "Big Milk" from the aforementioned album playing in the car while driving down a heavy-Christmas-lighted street, and let's just say that in the moment, it was magic. Anyhow, Deacon has announced that he's coming out with a new album, titled America, which is scheduled to be released on August 28, and he's released one track, titled "Lots" to tide fans over. You can listen to that below:
I won't spend too much space on this because I've already talked about it, but Neil Young and Crazy Horse are streaming their album of folk covers, titled Americana online, and you can listen to it on SoundCloud.
Moving along, the Beach Boys have shared another track from their upcoming LP, That's Why God Made the Radio, which is scheduled to come out on June 5th. The song is titled "From There to Back Again," and it's a signature Beach Boys track, which means the production is excellent, the harmonies are wonderful, and it's just an easy-listening song that can serve any particular moment. You can hear that here.
Also, NME has recently reported that in the UK, digital music sales have surpassed physical music sales, IE: vinyl and cd. It also reports that this is the first time this has happened, noting that digital music sales have accounted for 55.5 percent of total music sales. I can't say that I'm surprised as hardly anyone I know still buys CD's or vinyl. It's pretty sad for local record stores, but NME points out that this is good for record companies in that they've seen an increase in sales because of people buying digital music, so I guess there's an upside to everything, depending on how you look at it. You can read more about this here.
Lastly, Beck has collaborated with Childish Gambino AKA Donald Glover of the show Community. Beck also co-produced the track with Glover, and from first listen, it's excellent. Being a huge fan of Beck means also being a huge fan of Beck "the rapper," and on this song, he doesn't disappoint. You can hear the track at Stereogum.
LISTENING: I've spent this entire morning listening to Regina Spektor's latest endeavor, What We Saw From The Cheap Seats, and having listened to the entire album twice, my thoughts are a little mixed. There are a few great tracks on here that makes me think "she's still got it!" and then there are a few tracks I can do without. I guess this goes in line with how I measure great albums, which is when you can play the whole thing through and love every track. This isn't great, but that doesn't mean it's not good. Tracks like "Firewood," "How" and "Jessica" are some of Spektor's finest moments, in my opinion. Though Spektor has noted that a lot of the songs were written pre-Soviet Kitsch and pre-Begin To Hope, the production of the album is what often skews my perception of what could be a great album. I'm not exactly blaming the production as it is, but I feel that Spektor's focus on it has definitely rid the songs of some of their integrity, like on "All The Rowboats." Aside from that, and the fact that it could have done without "Oh Marcello," the album is a solid effort. You can hear one of the album highlights, "How," below:
That's all. PEACE.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
It's All Good...
Stream the new Hives album online...Florence and the Machine share new video...Big Boi releases new song...Kanye and Jay Z share video for "No Church in the Wild"...Imagine Dragons...
Well, let's start with Lex Hives, the new record by The Hives, which is scheduled to hit stores on June 4th. The Guardian is currently streaming the album online, so if you're a little on the impatient side, then you can listen to here. I have not been able to listen to it yet, but let's just say that my "albums to listen to" list is way on over-book as of late, so it's a little hard to squeeze in anything right now. How does one put in the time!
In other news, Florence and the Machine have shared the video for the track "Spectrum," off of her Ceremonials album, which I've just now started getting into after a friend showed me the "Glee" version of Shake It Out. Yes, it shouldn't take something like that to prompt me to hear an album, but let's just say that the song never really crossed my path until now. But, with this video, directed by David LaChapelle is rich with choreography and colorful visuals. You can watch that below:
Moving along...I mentioned that Big Boi has recently named his upcoming solo album, and now he's released a new song, titled "She Said OK," with Theophilus London, and featuring Tre Luce. This song isn't for those who are opposed to the profane, and for those who like their raps quick, to the point, and raunchy as fuck. You can listen to it below:
Lastly, and I'm a day late on this one...Kanye West and Jay Z have released a video for their Watch The Throne track, "No Church in the Wild." The video is directed by Romain Gravras who directed M.I.A.'s "Born Free" and "Bad Girls." Visually, the video contains Gavras' touch...showing people revolting against the establishment AKA the police, throwing home-made bombs, setting fires, etc. You can view that below:
LISTENING: I haven't been able to listen to much, still mainly listening to Exile on Main Street, which I've already talked about, so let's not be repetitive. But a friend of mine sent me the video to a song titled "It's Time" by Las Vegas band Imagine Dragons. The beat instantly had me, and while the singer's voice initially threw me off, I haven't been able to stop listening to this song today. It's just one of those tracks that gets stuck in your head, and whether or not it's a lasting tune remains to be seen, but you can listen to that one below:
That's all. PEACE.
Well, let's start with Lex Hives, the new record by The Hives, which is scheduled to hit stores on June 4th. The Guardian is currently streaming the album online, so if you're a little on the impatient side, then you can listen to here. I have not been able to listen to it yet, but let's just say that my "albums to listen to" list is way on over-book as of late, so it's a little hard to squeeze in anything right now. How does one put in the time!
In other news, Florence and the Machine have shared the video for the track "Spectrum," off of her Ceremonials album, which I've just now started getting into after a friend showed me the "Glee" version of Shake It Out. Yes, it shouldn't take something like that to prompt me to hear an album, but let's just say that the song never really crossed my path until now. But, with this video, directed by David LaChapelle is rich with choreography and colorful visuals. You can watch that below:
Moving along...I mentioned that Big Boi has recently named his upcoming solo album, and now he's released a new song, titled "She Said OK," with Theophilus London, and featuring Tre Luce. This song isn't for those who are opposed to the profane, and for those who like their raps quick, to the point, and raunchy as fuck. You can listen to it below:
Lastly, and I'm a day late on this one...Kanye West and Jay Z have released a video for their Watch The Throne track, "No Church in the Wild." The video is directed by Romain Gravras who directed M.I.A.'s "Born Free" and "Bad Girls." Visually, the video contains Gavras' touch...showing people revolting against the establishment AKA the police, throwing home-made bombs, setting fires, etc. You can view that below:
LISTENING: I haven't been able to listen to much, still mainly listening to Exile on Main Street, which I've already talked about, so let's not be repetitive. But a friend of mine sent me the video to a song titled "It's Time" by Las Vegas band Imagine Dragons. The beat instantly had me, and while the singer's voice initially threw me off, I haven't been able to stop listening to this song today. It's just one of those tracks that gets stuck in your head, and whether or not it's a lasting tune remains to be seen, but you can listen to that one below:
That's all. PEACE.
Monday, May 28, 2012
"Steal Your Heart Away"
Big Boi gives name to new album...Stream Japandroids "Celebration Rock" on NPR...The Killers share new album title as well...Exile on Main Street...
Well, let's start this off with Big Boi. It's been a hot minute since he released his last solo album, Sir Lucius Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty. And that album was a nice representation of Big Boi's personality, outside of his work with Andre 3000. You can read a review for that album that I wrote for the Daily Texan here. Moving along...Big Boi has announced that he's coming out with another solo album, to be titled Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors. Umm...okay. I'm sure the album will be good, though the title doesn't inspire too much confidence, but what's in a name? Right? So, be on the lookout for more news on that one, and you can hear stand-out track, "You Ain't No DJ," from his previous solo effort below:
In other news, Japandroids are streaming their entire new album, Celebration Rock on NPR. I haven't gotten a chance to listen to it yet, but I fully intend to. If not, I can just buy it next week. You can listen to the album here.
Lastly, The Killers have also announced the name to their upcoming album. The album is going to be called Battle Born. I'm sure whatever they come out with will be somewhat better than that "Are we human or are we dancer" bullshit. Sorry, Killers fans, but they certainly dropped the ball on their last release. I've never been too much of a Killers fan to begin with, but Flowers and company have come out with some notable songs in the past, and I'm not talking about "Mr. Brightside" either, though it did work well for some head-bopping and sing-along parties in the backseat. Personally, I've always favored "All These Things That I've Done," which you can hear below:
LISTENING: I've spent the better part of my weekend listening to The Rolling Stones' Exile on Main Street. I bought this album a couple of years back after reading a riveting feature in Rolling Stone about the making of this album in a mansion in Paris. A lot of drugs went into the making of this album, and isn't most excellent rock n' roll made this way? Sorry for those straight-edge rockers who think differently, but there is a sense of mysticism concerning drug-addled music that is hard to puncture. Either way, this album is excellent. I've always appreciated The Rolling Stones, and I've always tried to make it a point to familiarize myself with their work more... and this is the album to do that. Tracks like "Rocks Off," "Casino Boogie," and "Torn and Frayed," show their power, their vulnerability, and their prowess as excellent rock musicians. But, you don't need me to poison your eyes and ears with my thoughts. Listen for yourself. You can hear another stand-out track, "Ventilator Blues," below:
That's all. PEACE.
Well, let's start this off with Big Boi. It's been a hot minute since he released his last solo album, Sir Lucius Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty. And that album was a nice representation of Big Boi's personality, outside of his work with Andre 3000. You can read a review for that album that I wrote for the Daily Texan here. Moving along...Big Boi has announced that he's coming out with another solo album, to be titled Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors. Umm...okay. I'm sure the album will be good, though the title doesn't inspire too much confidence, but what's in a name? Right? So, be on the lookout for more news on that one, and you can hear stand-out track, "You Ain't No DJ," from his previous solo effort below:
In other news, Japandroids are streaming their entire new album, Celebration Rock on NPR. I haven't gotten a chance to listen to it yet, but I fully intend to. If not, I can just buy it next week. You can listen to the album here.
Lastly, The Killers have also announced the name to their upcoming album. The album is going to be called Battle Born. I'm sure whatever they come out with will be somewhat better than that "Are we human or are we dancer" bullshit. Sorry, Killers fans, but they certainly dropped the ball on their last release. I've never been too much of a Killers fan to begin with, but Flowers and company have come out with some notable songs in the past, and I'm not talking about "Mr. Brightside" either, though it did work well for some head-bopping and sing-along parties in the backseat. Personally, I've always favored "All These Things That I've Done," which you can hear below:
LISTENING: I've spent the better part of my weekend listening to The Rolling Stones' Exile on Main Street. I bought this album a couple of years back after reading a riveting feature in Rolling Stone about the making of this album in a mansion in Paris. A lot of drugs went into the making of this album, and isn't most excellent rock n' roll made this way? Sorry for those straight-edge rockers who think differently, but there is a sense of mysticism concerning drug-addled music that is hard to puncture. Either way, this album is excellent. I've always appreciated The Rolling Stones, and I've always tried to make it a point to familiarize myself with their work more... and this is the album to do that. Tracks like "Rocks Off," "Casino Boogie," and "Torn and Frayed," show their power, their vulnerability, and their prowess as excellent rock musicians. But, you don't need me to poison your eyes and ears with my thoughts. Listen for yourself. You can hear another stand-out track, "Ventilator Blues," below:
That's all. PEACE.
Friday, May 25, 2012
"Something Comes...Something Goes"
Neil Young covers "God Save the Queen"...Beck's son dances onstage...Bright Light Social Hour review...Mott The Hoople...
Well, there wasn't much that I was interested in talking about today. I guess it's just one of those days where things don't seem too appealing, at least in the news. AND...I know that I've been talking about Neil Young a lot lately, but that's mainly because he's been all over the fucking place. He's gearing up to release a new album with Crazy Horse, titled Americana, and has a documentary coming out about him, so it's hard not to see his name everywhere as of late. But, he released the video/song of "God Save the Queen" which is a track off of his upcoming album, which is said to consist of covers of folk songs. The album is set to come out on June 4, but this little number should hold you off until then:
Also, Pitchfork posted a video of Beck playing "E-Pro" live. To experience Beck live is something that can't be reiterated unless you've been there. Okay, I'm completely lying, I could go on and on for days about what the experience was like, considering it was my favorite show of the whole 2008 ACL festival. But that's neither here nor there. As Pitchfork stated, it is probably the cutest thing I've seen today...in the video, Beck's son is dancing around the stage, and the kid's got some mad hyperactivity going on mixed with his natural affinity for pyrotechnics. You can view that performance below:
CONCERT REVIEW: I mentioned a few entries ago that I was in the process of writing an article about the Bright Light Social Hour. Well, the show was last night, and let me just say that it was some good fun. The band itself draws on many influences, from disco to blues to classic rock to fill-in-the-blank. The list goes on and on. But, these guys know how to put on a fucking amazing show. It's always good to see a band that knows how to jam onstage and have fun in the process, and when I say jam, I mean go off into 3 minute solos and completely get lost in the music, taking the audience along for the journey. They played multiple songs from their self-titled album, namely "Shanty," "Bare Hands Bare Feet," and "Detroit," among others. My friend and I agreed that they sort of channeled the magic of Queen, or rather Freddie Mercury with their vocal stylings. You can listen to their track, "Bare Hands Bare Feet" below:
LISTENING: Today, I've just been listening to Mott The Hoople's fifth album, titled All The Young Dudes. I'm not ashamed to say that I fell in love with the track, "All The Young Dudes," while watching the Jason Reitman flick, Juno. How the fuck else do you hear of new bands if you're not listening in for them? All motherfuckery aside...the album is excellent. I bought it a couple of years ago, and it's definitely an album that resonates, and you can definitely catch David Bowie influences in it, considering he produced the damn thing. Tracks like "Sucker," "One of the Boys," and "Sea Diver," definitely showcase their talent. So, that's a definite recommendation if you haven't heard this album yet. And, you can hear the beautiful track, "Sea Diver," below:
That's all. PEACE.
Well, there wasn't much that I was interested in talking about today. I guess it's just one of those days where things don't seem too appealing, at least in the news. AND...I know that I've been talking about Neil Young a lot lately, but that's mainly because he's been all over the fucking place. He's gearing up to release a new album with Crazy Horse, titled Americana, and has a documentary coming out about him, so it's hard not to see his name everywhere as of late. But, he released the video/song of "God Save the Queen" which is a track off of his upcoming album, which is said to consist of covers of folk songs. The album is set to come out on June 4, but this little number should hold you off until then:
Also, Pitchfork posted a video of Beck playing "E-Pro" live. To experience Beck live is something that can't be reiterated unless you've been there. Okay, I'm completely lying, I could go on and on for days about what the experience was like, considering it was my favorite show of the whole 2008 ACL festival. But that's neither here nor there. As Pitchfork stated, it is probably the cutest thing I've seen today...in the video, Beck's son is dancing around the stage, and the kid's got some mad hyperactivity going on mixed with his natural affinity for pyrotechnics. You can view that performance below:
CONCERT REVIEW: I mentioned a few entries ago that I was in the process of writing an article about the Bright Light Social Hour. Well, the show was last night, and let me just say that it was some good fun. The band itself draws on many influences, from disco to blues to classic rock to fill-in-the-blank. The list goes on and on. But, these guys know how to put on a fucking amazing show. It's always good to see a band that knows how to jam onstage and have fun in the process, and when I say jam, I mean go off into 3 minute solos and completely get lost in the music, taking the audience along for the journey. They played multiple songs from their self-titled album, namely "Shanty," "Bare Hands Bare Feet," and "Detroit," among others. My friend and I agreed that they sort of channeled the magic of Queen, or rather Freddie Mercury with their vocal stylings. You can listen to their track, "Bare Hands Bare Feet" below:
LISTENING: Today, I've just been listening to Mott The Hoople's fifth album, titled All The Young Dudes. I'm not ashamed to say that I fell in love with the track, "All The Young Dudes," while watching the Jason Reitman flick, Juno. How the fuck else do you hear of new bands if you're not listening in for them? All motherfuckery aside...the album is excellent. I bought it a couple of years ago, and it's definitely an album that resonates, and you can definitely catch David Bowie influences in it, considering he produced the damn thing. Tracks like "Sucker," "One of the Boys," and "Sea Diver," definitely showcase their talent. So, that's a definite recommendation if you haven't heard this album yet. And, you can hear the beautiful track, "Sea Diver," below:
That's all. PEACE.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
The Game Is Changed
Justin Timberlake scores film...Japandroids interviewed at Pitchfork...Calexico...
Well, I guess it's as good a day as any other to talk about former boy-band members. This day, we choose...Justin Timberlake! Timberlake, famous for his work with N'Sync, and his much-appreciated solo work as well as his acting stints, has announced that he's going to be scoring a new film, titled The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea. I think Jessica Biel, who stars in the film, probably got him the job, but that's neither here nor there. Apparently, along with scoring duties, Timberlake is also going to be the music director, getting the opportunity to show his taste in music by picking other band's songs to be included in the film. I guess this is considered music news, only on the pretense that people have wondered where the hell he's been since the last album he released was FutureSex/Lovesounds in 2006, and has taken to acting pursuits. Either way, this could be interesting...You can hear "Sexyback" below:
In other news, Pitchfork has interviewed Vancouver band, Japandroids, in anticipation for their second full-length LP, titled Celebration Rock, which is being released on June 5. I actually first heard of this band after a friend gave me their first album, Post-Nothing as a "secret Santa" present on Christmas Eve 2010. Always a sucker for a good CD, I listened to it on repeat for weeks, and normally, this type of yell-driven emo-sounding rock n' roll may not be my thing, but these guys just had something about them that transcended those weird and sometimes inappropriate stereotypes. From the opening track of "The Boys Are Leaving Town," to the very end, it's just non-stop. But, in the interview, they address their somewhat easy-going attitude about how they formed and how they continue as artists, maintaining that they'd rather be happy and maintain their friendship than right the fame-train to destruction. You can read the interview at Pitchfork, and you can hear stand-out track "Rockers East Vancouver" from Post-Nothing played live on Noisevox below:
LISTENING: I started off my morning with a little White Stripes, but have since decided to change directions somewhat to an album that was one of my favorites in high school. The album is by a little band called Calexico, and the album is titled Feast of Wire. Now, let me say that I haven't really listened to much else by Calexico, and this wasn't a conscious decision. Though I was taken aback and appreciated the aforementioned album, I just didn't delve into anything else, minus a few snippets of their 2006 effort, Garden Ruin, but I don't even remember much of it, so it must not have been very good. Either way, going back to Feast of Wire, it's a great album that mixes Latin and country influences into a weird hybrid that doesn't sound contrived, or weak. I think with Calexico, it's more about the compositions than the actual lyrics, though when they actually do decide to sing, there are some endearing moments, most notably on my favorite track, "Not Even Stevie Nicks," which you can hear below:
That's all. PEACE.
Well, I guess it's as good a day as any other to talk about former boy-band members. This day, we choose...Justin Timberlake! Timberlake, famous for his work with N'Sync, and his much-appreciated solo work as well as his acting stints, has announced that he's going to be scoring a new film, titled The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea. I think Jessica Biel, who stars in the film, probably got him the job, but that's neither here nor there. Apparently, along with scoring duties, Timberlake is also going to be the music director, getting the opportunity to show his taste in music by picking other band's songs to be included in the film. I guess this is considered music news, only on the pretense that people have wondered where the hell he's been since the last album he released was FutureSex/Lovesounds in 2006, and has taken to acting pursuits. Either way, this could be interesting...You can hear "Sexyback" below:
In other news, Pitchfork has interviewed Vancouver band, Japandroids, in anticipation for their second full-length LP, titled Celebration Rock, which is being released on June 5. I actually first heard of this band after a friend gave me their first album, Post-Nothing as a "secret Santa" present on Christmas Eve 2010. Always a sucker for a good CD, I listened to it on repeat for weeks, and normally, this type of yell-driven emo-sounding rock n' roll may not be my thing, but these guys just had something about them that transcended those weird and sometimes inappropriate stereotypes. From the opening track of "The Boys Are Leaving Town," to the very end, it's just non-stop. But, in the interview, they address their somewhat easy-going attitude about how they formed and how they continue as artists, maintaining that they'd rather be happy and maintain their friendship than right the fame-train to destruction. You can read the interview at Pitchfork, and you can hear stand-out track "Rockers East Vancouver" from Post-Nothing played live on Noisevox below:
LISTENING: I started off my morning with a little White Stripes, but have since decided to change directions somewhat to an album that was one of my favorites in high school. The album is by a little band called Calexico, and the album is titled Feast of Wire. Now, let me say that I haven't really listened to much else by Calexico, and this wasn't a conscious decision. Though I was taken aback and appreciated the aforementioned album, I just didn't delve into anything else, minus a few snippets of their 2006 effort, Garden Ruin, but I don't even remember much of it, so it must not have been very good. Either way, going back to Feast of Wire, it's a great album that mixes Latin and country influences into a weird hybrid that doesn't sound contrived, or weak. I think with Calexico, it's more about the compositions than the actual lyrics, though when they actually do decide to sing, there are some endearing moments, most notably on my favorite track, "Not Even Stevie Nicks," which you can hear below:
That's all. PEACE.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Mirrors
Yacht cover the Velvet Underground...Beach House performs on Later with Jools Holland...Is sex, drugs and rock n' roll for real?...Beck shares new single snippets...Haim and more...
I saw Yacht perform at Emo's a couple of years back (as I probably mentioned before), and they were excellent. Not only do they have a significantly viable stage presence, but I actually prefer their live sound rather than their studio recordings, but I'm only a humble admirer, considering that the only song I truly truly admire from them is "The Afterlife," but I'm sure I'm not alone on that front. Anyhow, the band has recently covered The Velvet Underground's famous track, "I'll Be Your Mirror," which is one of my favorite VU tracks. I was surprised that I actually liked Yacht's version, especially considering that those are some pretty huge shoes to fill, and though they don't come close, it's still a welcomed rendition. You can hear that below:
Moving along...I've been in this weird Beach House whirlpool. Every time I read music news, there's something about them, and every time I go to listen to music, something is always urging me to give them a listen. Maybe there's some weird Beach House magic in the air that keeps bringing them to the forefront of my mind, and I wouldn't even call myself a fan. Though, I have been listening to their first LP, Beach House, and I like that they've never significantly changed their sound, considering that their new stuff stays along the same wavelength. And it's nice to know that if I ever decided to see them live, their music bodes well for them in that their live performances seem to sound almost exactly the same, which for some people, is a telling sign of a great performance. You can view their Later with Jools Holland performance of their track "Myth," below:
Also, NME recently published an article that spoke about a link between sex, drugs and rock n' roll, and if that is an actual legitimate claim...Well, apparently it is. Some scientists (?) or sociologists (?) from the Netherlands distributed questionnaires to 944 people, and basically came to the conclusion that people who listen to loud music are more likely to smoke marijuana and have sex. So, as NME concluded, I guess it's safe to say that sex, drugs and rock n' roll go hand in hand. But, would we really have it any other way? You can read their actual report here.
Lastly, anything having to do with Beck is news to me...having said that, Beck recorded a new single, which is out via Jack White's Third Man Records on May 28. Beck has shared some snippets of both songs on the single, titled "I Just Started Hating Some People Today" and "Blue Randy," and let's just say from listening to the samples, I'm buying this when it comes out. Enough said. You can listen to them at the Third Man Records site, here.
LISTENING: Well...yesterday was a great day for music listening for this journalist. From about the time I got home from work to the time I went to bed, my stereo was extremely busy. One new band I listened to is a trio of sisters from California, called Haim. And they've released a 3-song EP, titled Forever, which is available for download on their website. My first impression was that I like how they incorporated many influences, but rock isn't one of them, even though many news outlets that have featured these sisters describes their blend of "classic rock and r&b." The r&b is there, but the rock isn't, so once again...a sample of false advertising. Now, don't get me wrong, these gals are catchy as fuck, not saying they're bad. Listen to the track below to see for yourself: (Side note: My niece walked in on me listening to it, and asked, "Why are you listening to Gloria Estefan?")
Other than that, I've been listening to some Modest Mouse, this other band I heard of called Pinemarten (though, they were a little too atmospheric for my taste), Gladys Bentley, and this other dude named Karl Blau, and this particular song, titled "Slow Down Joe," stuck out to me. So you can listen to that one below:
That's all. PEACE.
I saw Yacht perform at Emo's a couple of years back (as I probably mentioned before), and they were excellent. Not only do they have a significantly viable stage presence, but I actually prefer their live sound rather than their studio recordings, but I'm only a humble admirer, considering that the only song I truly truly admire from them is "The Afterlife," but I'm sure I'm not alone on that front. Anyhow, the band has recently covered The Velvet Underground's famous track, "I'll Be Your Mirror," which is one of my favorite VU tracks. I was surprised that I actually liked Yacht's version, especially considering that those are some pretty huge shoes to fill, and though they don't come close, it's still a welcomed rendition. You can hear that below:
Moving along...I've been in this weird Beach House whirlpool. Every time I read music news, there's something about them, and every time I go to listen to music, something is always urging me to give them a listen. Maybe there's some weird Beach House magic in the air that keeps bringing them to the forefront of my mind, and I wouldn't even call myself a fan. Though, I have been listening to their first LP, Beach House, and I like that they've never significantly changed their sound, considering that their new stuff stays along the same wavelength. And it's nice to know that if I ever decided to see them live, their music bodes well for them in that their live performances seem to sound almost exactly the same, which for some people, is a telling sign of a great performance. You can view their Later with Jools Holland performance of their track "Myth," below:
Also, NME recently published an article that spoke about a link between sex, drugs and rock n' roll, and if that is an actual legitimate claim...Well, apparently it is. Some scientists (?) or sociologists (?) from the Netherlands distributed questionnaires to 944 people, and basically came to the conclusion that people who listen to loud music are more likely to smoke marijuana and have sex. So, as NME concluded, I guess it's safe to say that sex, drugs and rock n' roll go hand in hand. But, would we really have it any other way? You can read their actual report here.
Lastly, anything having to do with Beck is news to me...having said that, Beck recorded a new single, which is out via Jack White's Third Man Records on May 28. Beck has shared some snippets of both songs on the single, titled "I Just Started Hating Some People Today" and "Blue Randy," and let's just say from listening to the samples, I'm buying this when it comes out. Enough said. You can listen to them at the Third Man Records site, here.
LISTENING: Well...yesterday was a great day for music listening for this journalist. From about the time I got home from work to the time I went to bed, my stereo was extremely busy. One new band I listened to is a trio of sisters from California, called Haim. And they've released a 3-song EP, titled Forever, which is available for download on their website. My first impression was that I like how they incorporated many influences, but rock isn't one of them, even though many news outlets that have featured these sisters describes their blend of "classic rock and r&b." The r&b is there, but the rock isn't, so once again...a sample of false advertising. Now, don't get me wrong, these gals are catchy as fuck, not saying they're bad. Listen to the track below to see for yourself: (Side note: My niece walked in on me listening to it, and asked, "Why are you listening to Gloria Estefan?")
Other than that, I've been listening to some Modest Mouse, this other band I heard of called Pinemarten (though, they were a little too atmospheric for my taste), Gladys Bentley, and this other dude named Karl Blau, and this particular song, titled "Slow Down Joe," stuck out to me. So you can listen to that one below:
That's all. PEACE.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
91...92...93...
D'Angelo's first sit-down interview in 12 years...Sleigh Bells "Demon" video...ACL 2012 Lineup...I wub the 90s...
Let's start this off with D'Angelo. The R&B singer, who hit it big in the 90s has been under the radar within the past few years, due to his battles with drug addiction, some unfortunate accidents, and whatnot. But, the singer has recently done an interview with GQ, his first sit-down interview in 12 years, during which he talks about his drug struggles, the difficulties with fame, and his upcoming album. You can read the article at GQ, and you can view his "Untitled" video below:
Sleigh Bells are one of those bands that has marketed themselves with a certain sound, and painfully stuck to it. There was once a part of me that became completely taken over with their vibe, as seen on such songs as "Crown on the Ground," and personal favorite, "Rill Rill." But, everything I've heard from their new album stuck to the certainty that where one sound caught ears, that same sound is sure to keep them. I would have liked to have seen some more variety from them, but hey, people have to pay bills, right? Either way, you can watch their new video for their song, "Demons" off of their latest release, Reign of Terror below:
Lastly...the 2012 ACL Line-up is here, or at least the initial lineup. From what I've seen thus far, I'd be ecstatic to see Neil Young, Iggy and the Stooges, First Aid Kit, Jack White, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Roots, Florence and the Machine, Rufus Wainwright, Crystal Castles, etc. You can view the lineup (if you already haven't) here.
I've spent the better part of my day listening to music from the 90s, since NME put out their 100 Best Songs of the 90s list today. This is definitely keeping in line with a current trend that seems to have more people sharing their 90s love with some flash-backs/shout-outs/nods...what have you. They're just all over the place lately. Aside from that, I couldn't get this little gem out of my head all weekend, after hearing it at a bar...but if you want to view the list, you can see it here. You can listen to "Got Your Money" by ODB below:
That's all. PEACE.
Let's start this off with D'Angelo. The R&B singer, who hit it big in the 90s has been under the radar within the past few years, due to his battles with drug addiction, some unfortunate accidents, and whatnot. But, the singer has recently done an interview with GQ, his first sit-down interview in 12 years, during which he talks about his drug struggles, the difficulties with fame, and his upcoming album. You can read the article at GQ, and you can view his "Untitled" video below:
Sleigh Bells are one of those bands that has marketed themselves with a certain sound, and painfully stuck to it. There was once a part of me that became completely taken over with their vibe, as seen on such songs as "Crown on the Ground," and personal favorite, "Rill Rill." But, everything I've heard from their new album stuck to the certainty that where one sound caught ears, that same sound is sure to keep them. I would have liked to have seen some more variety from them, but hey, people have to pay bills, right? Either way, you can watch their new video for their song, "Demons" off of their latest release, Reign of Terror below:
Lastly...the 2012 ACL Line-up is here, or at least the initial lineup. From what I've seen thus far, I'd be ecstatic to see Neil Young, Iggy and the Stooges, First Aid Kit, Jack White, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Roots, Florence and the Machine, Rufus Wainwright, Crystal Castles, etc. You can view the lineup (if you already haven't) here.
I've spent the better part of my day listening to music from the 90s, since NME put out their 100 Best Songs of the 90s list today. This is definitely keeping in line with a current trend that seems to have more people sharing their 90s love with some flash-backs/shout-outs/nods...what have you. They're just all over the place lately. Aside from that, I couldn't get this little gem out of my head all weekend, after hearing it at a bar...but if you want to view the list, you can see it here. You can listen to "Got Your Money" by ODB below:
That's all. PEACE.
Friday, May 18, 2012
We Get The Sun!
Regina Spektor performs on David Letterman...Antony and the Johnsons set to release live album...Chaka Khan will perform a tribute to the late Whitney Houston...Rye Rye, M.I.A. and Nat King Cole...
Let's start this off with Regina Spektor. Now, let me just say that her upcoming album, What We Saw From The Cheap Seats, isn't exactly inspiring a lot of desire in me to buy it. I feel that as her career has progressed, she's focused a lot more on production and sound than actually paying close attention to the actual songwriting. Many will disagree with me, and that's fine. I know that she's re-recorded some of her old songs for her new release, which comes out on May 29th, so in that respect, maybe my point is moot. But, I feel as if her latest releases haven't hit quite as hard as Soviet Kitsch did, but that's neither here nor there. The piano-songstress performed her current single, "All The Rowboats," on David Letterman last night, and like the song, the performance did little to instill confidence in this music listener. But, you can view it at Stereogum.
In other news, Antony and the Johnsons are coming out with a live album, titled Cut the World. The album is set to come out on August 6. I'm a little behind on Antony's work, only because that I was so amazed with I Am A Bird Now. I think there is this subconscious inkling in my mind that has made me somewhat wary of listening to anything else by him because I feel that it wouldn't compare, and that's terrible. As a music listener, and aspiring music journalist, those are the types of things one should steer clear of, but the fact that he's coming out with something new just solidifies my need to catch up on his work...at least Swanlights, which received excellent reviews. But, you can hear the album-opener from I Am A Bird Now below, it's one of my favorite Antony tracks.
Lastly, Chaka Khan in all her glory will perform a tribute to the late Whitney Houston at an awards ceremony at the Apollo Theater. I got a little excited about this, especially after having read a riveting story about Whitney Houston in the latest issue of Vanity Fair (Yes, I read!). Either way...that's something to look forward to, especially when one considers that Lionel Ritchie and Etta James are set to be inducted into the Apollo Hall of Fame. This event is happening on June 4th, and you can hear Chaka Khan's famous track, "Ain't Nobody" below:
LISTENING: Well, I feel like a dipshit, but it's all Rye Rye's fault! Her first full-length LP, titled Go! Pop! Bang! has been set for release for the past 3(?) years, and I understand that complications arise. However, the album was finally released this past week, and I've read about it, but have not mentioned it because I haven't listened to it yet. Though, I have heard several songs that are on the album, "Bang," "Sunshine," "Boom Boom," and "Never Will Be Mine," so what's that? 1/4 of the record? Either way...from what I've heard, I'm not all that excited. Tracks like "Bang" and "Shake It To The Ground," gave me hope, but let's just leave it as a faint curiosity that I like to indulge in. You can hear "Bang" below:
Also, I've been listening to M.I.A.'s Kala this afternoon. I think it's M.I.A.'s finest moment. She already broke barriers and created a massive stir with Arular, but I feel that she expanded and mastered her sound with Kala. For me, it was unprecedented, and it was bold. It took the world a while to catch onto it, many only taking a liking after hearing "Paper Planes," but the attention was well-deserved, and it put her on a platform where she could probably work with anyone she wanted to, if she hadn't already. But, you can hear my favorite Kala song, "Birdflu," below:
This morning, I listened to Love Is A Many Splendored Thing, which is a compilation of Nat King Cole songs that Capitol Records put out a while back. I bought this record at some thrift store in Austin, can't remember what it was called, and today was the first day that I found this hidden gem stuck in the back of my book-shelf, and I'm glad that I found it. Since I am a dumb-ass who isn't too familiar with Nat King Cole's work, this is a great introduction into his world, and he kindly shows you there with his wonderful vocals and brisk arrangements. You can hear the title track below:
That's all. PEACE.
Let's start this off with Regina Spektor. Now, let me just say that her upcoming album, What We Saw From The Cheap Seats, isn't exactly inspiring a lot of desire in me to buy it. I feel that as her career has progressed, she's focused a lot more on production and sound than actually paying close attention to the actual songwriting. Many will disagree with me, and that's fine. I know that she's re-recorded some of her old songs for her new release, which comes out on May 29th, so in that respect, maybe my point is moot. But, I feel as if her latest releases haven't hit quite as hard as Soviet Kitsch did, but that's neither here nor there. The piano-songstress performed her current single, "All The Rowboats," on David Letterman last night, and like the song, the performance did little to instill confidence in this music listener. But, you can view it at Stereogum.
In other news, Antony and the Johnsons are coming out with a live album, titled Cut the World. The album is set to come out on August 6. I'm a little behind on Antony's work, only because that I was so amazed with I Am A Bird Now. I think there is this subconscious inkling in my mind that has made me somewhat wary of listening to anything else by him because I feel that it wouldn't compare, and that's terrible. As a music listener, and aspiring music journalist, those are the types of things one should steer clear of, but the fact that he's coming out with something new just solidifies my need to catch up on his work...at least Swanlights, which received excellent reviews. But, you can hear the album-opener from I Am A Bird Now below, it's one of my favorite Antony tracks.
Lastly, Chaka Khan in all her glory will perform a tribute to the late Whitney Houston at an awards ceremony at the Apollo Theater. I got a little excited about this, especially after having read a riveting story about Whitney Houston in the latest issue of Vanity Fair (Yes, I read!). Either way...that's something to look forward to, especially when one considers that Lionel Ritchie and Etta James are set to be inducted into the Apollo Hall of Fame. This event is happening on June 4th, and you can hear Chaka Khan's famous track, "Ain't Nobody" below:
LISTENING: Well, I feel like a dipshit, but it's all Rye Rye's fault! Her first full-length LP, titled Go! Pop! Bang! has been set for release for the past 3(?) years, and I understand that complications arise. However, the album was finally released this past week, and I've read about it, but have not mentioned it because I haven't listened to it yet. Though, I have heard several songs that are on the album, "Bang," "Sunshine," "Boom Boom," and "Never Will Be Mine," so what's that? 1/4 of the record? Either way...from what I've heard, I'm not all that excited. Tracks like "Bang" and "Shake It To The Ground," gave me hope, but let's just leave it as a faint curiosity that I like to indulge in. You can hear "Bang" below:
Also, I've been listening to M.I.A.'s Kala this afternoon. I think it's M.I.A.'s finest moment. She already broke barriers and created a massive stir with Arular, but I feel that she expanded and mastered her sound with Kala. For me, it was unprecedented, and it was bold. It took the world a while to catch onto it, many only taking a liking after hearing "Paper Planes," but the attention was well-deserved, and it put her on a platform where she could probably work with anyone she wanted to, if she hadn't already. But, you can hear my favorite Kala song, "Birdflu," below:
This morning, I listened to Love Is A Many Splendored Thing, which is a compilation of Nat King Cole songs that Capitol Records put out a while back. I bought this record at some thrift store in Austin, can't remember what it was called, and today was the first day that I found this hidden gem stuck in the back of my book-shelf, and I'm glad that I found it. Since I am a dumb-ass who isn't too familiar with Nat King Cole's work, this is a great introduction into his world, and he kindly shows you there with his wonderful vocals and brisk arrangements. You can hear the title track below:
That's all. PEACE.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
No More Summer
RIP Donna...Jonathan Demme directs another Neil Young film...PJ Harvey contributing music to documentary...Rita Wilson's Jimmy Kimmel performance...Fleet Foxes and Thee Oh Sees...
Well, we should all take a moment of silence for the late disco queen, Donna Summer. I'm not too familiar with all of her repertoire of songs, but "Hot Stuff" and "Love To Love You Baby" are staples of Donna Summer's work. Summer died this morning in Florida, and her death was a result of her ongoing battle with cancer. She was only 63. Donna, you will be missed by many...and we'll always have your music to take us back to the days of disco. Safe travels.
Jonathan Demme won me over with Rachel Getting Married. I don't know why, but friends have pointed out that I love "wedding" movies, which is ironic because I hate actual weddings, but to give an example of the type of wedding movies I like, they would include Rachel Getting Married, Margot At The Wedding, and The Wedding Date (don't judge me). Sure, these films surround weddings, but it's also about the deterioration of the people surrounding the actual event, maybe that's why I like them. I'm getting way off topic.
But, Jonathan Demme has made another film about Neil Young (who incidentally is playing right this second!). Apparently, this is the third Neil Young film that Demme has directed, and it's rightly so, considering what a phenomenon Young is. In this film, Demme follows Young around his hometown in Ontario, as he gears up for a concert. You can view the trailer for the film below:
After already talking so much about PJ Harvey's Let England Shake, I will save my breath. But, Harvey is currently set to contribute a couple of new songs to a documentary, titled What Is This Film Called Love?. The film is about soviet director Sergei Eisenstein (yeah, I don't really know who that is, but that's what Harvey specified on her Facebook page). So, be on the lookout for that one, and you can see a performance of one of my favorite PJ Harvey songs ("Goodnight") below:
Rita Wilson...I've always liked her slightly sardonic characters (IE: The Story of Us and It's Complicated), but when I heard that she was coming out with a record, I was highly skeptical, as most people are when actors take a crack at forming a band and singing. Some actually pull it off, *couch*Zooey Deschanel*cough*, but even taking into consideration that the music itself may not be good, one has to remain a critical thinker. But, Rita Wilson has played it safe in that she's released an album of covers, titled AM/FM. I don't know much about the album at this point, but I did catch her performance last night on Jimmy Kimmel, and I was slightly surprised. Her vocals are fair, not great. And, she actually looks like she's having a lot of fun. You can view that below:
LISTENING: While working out this morning, I listened to The Master's Bedroom Is Worth Spending The Night In, an album by Thee Oh Sees that I've mentioned before. It's good in that it keeps a pretty steady, somewhat upbeat tempo...well, maybe not exactly upbeat. Then, I opted for Pandora while at work, only because it's the easiest transition from playing an album I've actually bought to listening to something halfway decent in the office, and have enjoyed the harmonistic (is that a word?) styling of Fleet Foxes, the soft and chilled voice of Neil Young, and the sinister proto-punk of the Sonics. So yeah, it's been a good afternoon for me. I'll leave you with this little number...
That's all. PEACE.
Well, we should all take a moment of silence for the late disco queen, Donna Summer. I'm not too familiar with all of her repertoire of songs, but "Hot Stuff" and "Love To Love You Baby" are staples of Donna Summer's work. Summer died this morning in Florida, and her death was a result of her ongoing battle with cancer. She was only 63. Donna, you will be missed by many...and we'll always have your music to take us back to the days of disco. Safe travels.
Jonathan Demme won me over with Rachel Getting Married. I don't know why, but friends have pointed out that I love "wedding" movies, which is ironic because I hate actual weddings, but to give an example of the type of wedding movies I like, they would include Rachel Getting Married, Margot At The Wedding, and The Wedding Date (don't judge me). Sure, these films surround weddings, but it's also about the deterioration of the people surrounding the actual event, maybe that's why I like them. I'm getting way off topic.
But, Jonathan Demme has made another film about Neil Young (who incidentally is playing right this second!). Apparently, this is the third Neil Young film that Demme has directed, and it's rightly so, considering what a phenomenon Young is. In this film, Demme follows Young around his hometown in Ontario, as he gears up for a concert. You can view the trailer for the film below:
After already talking so much about PJ Harvey's Let England Shake, I will save my breath. But, Harvey is currently set to contribute a couple of new songs to a documentary, titled What Is This Film Called Love?. The film is about soviet director Sergei Eisenstein (yeah, I don't really know who that is, but that's what Harvey specified on her Facebook page). So, be on the lookout for that one, and you can see a performance of one of my favorite PJ Harvey songs ("Goodnight") below:
Rita Wilson...I've always liked her slightly sardonic characters (IE: The Story of Us and It's Complicated), but when I heard that she was coming out with a record, I was highly skeptical, as most people are when actors take a crack at forming a band and singing. Some actually pull it off, *couch*Zooey Deschanel*cough*, but even taking into consideration that the music itself may not be good, one has to remain a critical thinker. But, Rita Wilson has played it safe in that she's released an album of covers, titled AM/FM. I don't know much about the album at this point, but I did catch her performance last night on Jimmy Kimmel, and I was slightly surprised. Her vocals are fair, not great. And, she actually looks like she's having a lot of fun. You can view that below:
LISTENING: While working out this morning, I listened to The Master's Bedroom Is Worth Spending The Night In, an album by Thee Oh Sees that I've mentioned before. It's good in that it keeps a pretty steady, somewhat upbeat tempo...well, maybe not exactly upbeat. Then, I opted for Pandora while at work, only because it's the easiest transition from playing an album I've actually bought to listening to something halfway decent in the office, and have enjoyed the harmonistic (is that a word?) styling of Fleet Foxes, the soft and chilled voice of Neil Young, and the sinister proto-punk of the Sonics. So yeah, it's been a good afternoon for me. I'll leave you with this little number...
That's all. PEACE.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
A Soft Hit...
Pitchfork Reviews "Hit So Hard"...Feist performs on Oakland street...R Kelly talks about new album...Pandora's box keeps opening and closing...
Let's start this off with a little love for Hole...or more for Patty Schemel. I heard a few months, maybe almost a year ago (so bad with dates), that there was a documentary about Patty Schemel that was going to outline her struggle with drugs and the hysteria surrounding early 90s grunge, as well as document Hole's fast and hard rise to the top. Being a fan of Hole, I was elated that there was going to be some concert footage, backstage clips, and a more intricate look at the Seattle scene spreading its influence across the world. And now...Pitchfork has released a review of the film, and while it's kind of vague, in that it poses the question of why the film focuses on Patty Schemel (though they don't really have anything bad to say about the film), it leaves much to be desired on the actual aesthetic qualities and sound criticism of the film's overall intent. Either way, you can read the review here, and you can watch the trailer below:
Feist recently performed on a street in Oakland, with two members of a dance crew performing some moves to "Cicadas and Gulls," a stand-out track from her latest album, Metals. As if Feist wasn't already enough of a badass, now you can see her playing an intimate take of an already intimate song. You can view that below:
In other news, R Kelly has come out with some information about his upcoming album, Write Me Back, which is due for a June 26 release. Let me just say that besides the fact that I like to make fun of R Kelly for his perverse affinity for peeing on minors, his music has always had a firm place within the music mainstream, and I myself have nodded my head, sang along, and been taken over by numerous tracks over the years. I wouldn't say I'm a full-fledged fan, but I respect the man's talent. I can now add his new single, "Feelin' Single," to the group of good R Kelly tracks. It has a nice, slick, old-school vibe, and Kelly's voice is in top shape. You can hear it below:
LISTENING: Today has been a random jumble of sounds and voices. Since I haven't had the opportunity to get my hands on new music because I've been busy, I added some new stations to my Pandora account, and have spent the better part of my morning/afternoon listening to Hank Williams, Jackson C. Frank, Robert Johnson, Joy Division, Roxy Music, and more... One song that particularly caught my attention was an old favorite of Hank Williams, Sr. You can listen to "Jumbalaya (On The Bayou)" below:
That's all. PEACE.
Let's start this off with a little love for Hole...or more for Patty Schemel. I heard a few months, maybe almost a year ago (so bad with dates), that there was a documentary about Patty Schemel that was going to outline her struggle with drugs and the hysteria surrounding early 90s grunge, as well as document Hole's fast and hard rise to the top. Being a fan of Hole, I was elated that there was going to be some concert footage, backstage clips, and a more intricate look at the Seattle scene spreading its influence across the world. And now...Pitchfork has released a review of the film, and while it's kind of vague, in that it poses the question of why the film focuses on Patty Schemel (though they don't really have anything bad to say about the film), it leaves much to be desired on the actual aesthetic qualities and sound criticism of the film's overall intent. Either way, you can read the review here, and you can watch the trailer below:
Feist recently performed on a street in Oakland, with two members of a dance crew performing some moves to "Cicadas and Gulls," a stand-out track from her latest album, Metals. As if Feist wasn't already enough of a badass, now you can see her playing an intimate take of an already intimate song. You can view that below:
In other news, R Kelly has come out with some information about his upcoming album, Write Me Back, which is due for a June 26 release. Let me just say that besides the fact that I like to make fun of R Kelly for his perverse affinity for peeing on minors, his music has always had a firm place within the music mainstream, and I myself have nodded my head, sang along, and been taken over by numerous tracks over the years. I wouldn't say I'm a full-fledged fan, but I respect the man's talent. I can now add his new single, "Feelin' Single," to the group of good R Kelly tracks. It has a nice, slick, old-school vibe, and Kelly's voice is in top shape. You can hear it below:
LISTENING: Today has been a random jumble of sounds and voices. Since I haven't had the opportunity to get my hands on new music because I've been busy, I added some new stations to my Pandora account, and have spent the better part of my morning/afternoon listening to Hank Williams, Jackson C. Frank, Robert Johnson, Joy Division, Roxy Music, and more... One song that particularly caught my attention was an old favorite of Hank Williams, Sr. You can listen to "Jumbalaya (On The Bayou)" below:
That's all. PEACE.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Screaming Saints
Tenacious D perform on David Letterman...Florence and the Machine shares video for "Breath of Life"...St. Vincent performs on +1...Screaming Females cover Sheryl Crowe...Joanna Newsom to collaborate with Philip Glass...Johnny Cash...
Let's start with the D...Tenacious D performed their track, "Roadie" last night on David Letterman. The track comes from their most recent release, Rize of the Fenix, which I've already posted about a couple of times, so I won't spend too much time talking about that one. But, you can view the performance below:
In other news, Florence and the Machine have released a video for the track, "Breath of Life," which is going to be featured on the soundtrack to upcoming film, Snow White and the Huntsman. The video is interlaced with footage from the studio recording of the song and clips from the film itself. You can view that below:
Moving along...St. Vincent recently performed on a +1 special at the Brooklyn Academy of Music for the Crossing Brooklyn Ferry Festival. In the video of the performance, she talks with some dudes from The National about performing live, guitar talents, etc. You can view the video and performance of the song "Krokodil" below:
Also, Screaming Females...I first heard of them in 2010? I wrote a preview story on them for my college paper when they played at Emo's in Austin, and I immediately took a liking to Marissa Paternoster's vocals, and just the un-tainted raw and weird quality the band, as a complete unit, possessed. I've fell out of touch with them, but upon hearing that they have a new record out, I might have to get my greedy little hands on that one. But, they recently performed for the A.V. Club, playing Sheryl Crowe's "If It Makes You Happy." I like that they chose this song, not just because it's a good 90s tune, but because it sort of pays homage to the talented songwriter that is Sheryl Crowe. Sure, in her later years, she's sort of dropped the ball and produced some odd work, but in her heyday, she had some good stuff. You can view the cover at Stereogum.
Lastly, any news about Joanna Newsom is news in general, at least in my book. The singer is going to play a show with composer Philip Glass, in which they play work from both their albums. The event is set to take place at the Warfield Theatre in San Francisco on June 25th, so get your tickets when you can because I'm sure that's going to sell out pretty fast.
LISTENING: I've spent the better part of my morning listening to Johnny Cash's American V: A Hundred Highways, which a friend lent me. I didn't get too far into the album, but album-opener "Help Me" immediately overtook me, and I found myself hitting the replay button over and over. It's beautiful, it's sad, and it's Johnny Cash at his most vulnerable. I definitely recommend a listen to this song, if not the whole record. You can hear it below:
That's all. PEACE.
Let's start with the D...Tenacious D performed their track, "Roadie" last night on David Letterman. The track comes from their most recent release, Rize of the Fenix, which I've already posted about a couple of times, so I won't spend too much time talking about that one. But, you can view the performance below:
In other news, Florence and the Machine have released a video for the track, "Breath of Life," which is going to be featured on the soundtrack to upcoming film, Snow White and the Huntsman. The video is interlaced with footage from the studio recording of the song and clips from the film itself. You can view that below:
Moving along...St. Vincent recently performed on a +1 special at the Brooklyn Academy of Music for the Crossing Brooklyn Ferry Festival. In the video of the performance, she talks with some dudes from The National about performing live, guitar talents, etc. You can view the video and performance of the song "Krokodil" below:
Also, Screaming Females...I first heard of them in 2010? I wrote a preview story on them for my college paper when they played at Emo's in Austin, and I immediately took a liking to Marissa Paternoster's vocals, and just the un-tainted raw and weird quality the band, as a complete unit, possessed. I've fell out of touch with them, but upon hearing that they have a new record out, I might have to get my greedy little hands on that one. But, they recently performed for the A.V. Club, playing Sheryl Crowe's "If It Makes You Happy." I like that they chose this song, not just because it's a good 90s tune, but because it sort of pays homage to the talented songwriter that is Sheryl Crowe. Sure, in her later years, she's sort of dropped the ball and produced some odd work, but in her heyday, she had some good stuff. You can view the cover at Stereogum.
Lastly, any news about Joanna Newsom is news in general, at least in my book. The singer is going to play a show with composer Philip Glass, in which they play work from both their albums. The event is set to take place at the Warfield Theatre in San Francisco on June 25th, so get your tickets when you can because I'm sure that's going to sell out pretty fast.
LISTENING: I've spent the better part of my morning listening to Johnny Cash's American V: A Hundred Highways, which a friend lent me. I didn't get too far into the album, but album-opener "Help Me" immediately overtook me, and I found myself hitting the replay button over and over. It's beautiful, it's sad, and it's Johnny Cash at his most vulnerable. I definitely recommend a listen to this song, if not the whole record. You can hear it below:
That's all. PEACE.
Friday, May 11, 2012
Wo! Hey!
Iggy Pop releases album online...Ariel Pink talks about new record...Bonde Do Role coming out with new LP, share video...Roxy Music and more...
So, let's talk about Iggy Pop. The punk priest has released his newest album, Apres, online due to disagreements with major record labels. Speaking to the Telegraph, Iggy said that Virgin EMI didn't want to release his record because they didn't feel they would make any money off of it, going on to say that it was "very sensible attitudes for a sensible sort of person - but that's a different sort of person than I am." The record showcases Pop singing French covers from the likes of Edith Piaf and Serge Gainsbourg. His album is out now and can be bought online.
Ariel Pink is one of those musicians who rose from the lo-fi psychedelic/garage underground a few years back with his musical project, Haunted Graffiti. I first came into contact with their music when an old friend went through a momentary obsession with Pink, playing albums The Doldrums and Haunted House. Most of my listening with Ariel Pink was in passing, but I always dug his sound, and I always liked that he had recorded everything himself, using a 4-track, which is an idea I've been toying with. Getting to the point, Ariel Pink is coming out with a new album in August, which he says will retain his old aesthetics, but with a much cleaner, less lo-fi sound because, let's face it, now he's got the funds to make something snazzier. Though, he says the new album will be "sonically linked" to his older stuff. So, be on the lookout for that one. You can hear "West Coast Calamities" off of House Arrest below:
Moving along...Bonde Do Role is one of those groups (or duo) that came about my first year of college, living away from home. Introduced to them by two crazy Colombian sisters, we partied to their first record, With Lazers almost every weekend. It was sinister, it was catchy, and it had the urban zeal that gave it more credit than it maybe deserved, but who the fuck am I to judge? It was fun album. Now, they are planning a follow-up, titled Tropicalbacanal, and it's set to come out on June 26. They've already released their first single, and video, which features producer/extraordinaire Diplo. You can view the video for "Kilo" below (and note the Wanda Jackson sample, nice touch!):
LISTENING: I've spent the better part of this morning listening to Roxy Music's Manifesto. The album was recorded in 1979, and it carries traces of the dying legacy of disco, and the emergence of early-80s new wave. The record itself is interesting to say the least. I feel that after more listens, I'll be able to grasp it better, but album-opener and title track, Manifesto is a great way to start the album, giving the listener a clear sample as to what they're getting into. "Angel Eyes" is also a stand-out track, and from my research, it was the album's leading single, granting it some Billboard spots. So far, good buy, maybe after three more full listens, that'll upgrade to "great" buy. You can hear another stand-out track, "My Little Girl" below:
That's all. PEACE.
So, let's talk about Iggy Pop. The punk priest has released his newest album, Apres, online due to disagreements with major record labels. Speaking to the Telegraph, Iggy said that Virgin EMI didn't want to release his record because they didn't feel they would make any money off of it, going on to say that it was "very sensible attitudes for a sensible sort of person - but that's a different sort of person than I am." The record showcases Pop singing French covers from the likes of Edith Piaf and Serge Gainsbourg. His album is out now and can be bought online.
Ariel Pink is one of those musicians who rose from the lo-fi psychedelic/garage underground a few years back with his musical project, Haunted Graffiti. I first came into contact with their music when an old friend went through a momentary obsession with Pink, playing albums The Doldrums and Haunted House. Most of my listening with Ariel Pink was in passing, but I always dug his sound, and I always liked that he had recorded everything himself, using a 4-track, which is an idea I've been toying with. Getting to the point, Ariel Pink is coming out with a new album in August, which he says will retain his old aesthetics, but with a much cleaner, less lo-fi sound because, let's face it, now he's got the funds to make something snazzier. Though, he says the new album will be "sonically linked" to his older stuff. So, be on the lookout for that one. You can hear "West Coast Calamities" off of House Arrest below:
Moving along...Bonde Do Role is one of those groups (or duo) that came about my first year of college, living away from home. Introduced to them by two crazy Colombian sisters, we partied to their first record, With Lazers almost every weekend. It was sinister, it was catchy, and it had the urban zeal that gave it more credit than it maybe deserved, but who the fuck am I to judge? It was fun album. Now, they are planning a follow-up, titled Tropicalbacanal, and it's set to come out on June 26. They've already released their first single, and video, which features producer/extraordinaire Diplo. You can view the video for "Kilo" below (and note the Wanda Jackson sample, nice touch!):
LISTENING: I've spent the better part of this morning listening to Roxy Music's Manifesto. The album was recorded in 1979, and it carries traces of the dying legacy of disco, and the emergence of early-80s new wave. The record itself is interesting to say the least. I feel that after more listens, I'll be able to grasp it better, but album-opener and title track, Manifesto is a great way to start the album, giving the listener a clear sample as to what they're getting into. "Angel Eyes" is also a stand-out track, and from my research, it was the album's leading single, granting it some Billboard spots. So far, good buy, maybe after three more full listens, that'll upgrade to "great" buy. You can hear another stand-out track, "My Little Girl" below:
That's all. PEACE.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Last Friday Night
Stream Garbage's album on SPIN...Fiona Apple offers deluxe version of new album...Nigel Godrich's new musical project...Pitchfork interviews Beach House...Loretta Lynn and Jack White...
Well...I expressed some minor excitement at the announcement that Garbage were coming out with a new album, even though I haven't really listened to them past Version 2.0, but let's not be repetitive. The band is currently streaming their upcoming album, Not Your Kind of People on SPIN, and if you decide that you will have absolutely nothing to do with spoilers, then you can wait until May 22nd to buy it in stores, or on iTunes on May 15th (but who honestly does that?). Having listened to the first five songs, I already have a major jones for "Big Bright World." You can hear the album here.
In other news, Fiona Apple's long anticipated album, The Idler Wheel... is also being offered in a deluxe edition, in a CD/DVD package that is also going to have some exclusive photos, artwork, and a bonus track. So, make sure you check that out if that sounds like something you'd be into. I mean, why get the standard when you can get the deluxe, am I right? The album comes out on June 19th, so mark your calendars for that one (assuming they're not digital).
Moving along...Nigel Godrich, famous for producing some of the most important work by some of our generations most important artists (including Radiohead and Beck), has come out with his own musical project, called Ultraista. He's teamed up with music artists Joey Waronker and Laura Bettison to complete the band's line-up, and they've released a video for their track, "Smalltalk," which you can view below. My first impression of this track is boredom. It just seems like basic, formulaic electronic music, which I'm sure many people will love. For me, I expected more from the man who produced The Information, one of my favorite Beck albums, but oh well.
Lastly, Pitchfork has recently interviewed Beach House. Now, I'm not a huge fan of this band's music, not saying they're bad, I just haven't gotten into it yet. Remember...I have to catch up. I'm even more inspired to hear offerings from this duo after reading the interview in which they discuss how artists have to maintain their identity in the ever-changing landscape of music. It's a very interesting and unpretentious take from an artist who know who they are, but also know their own limitations. You can read the interview at Pitchfork.
LISTENING: This morning, I listened to Van Lear Rose by Loretta Lynn. If my memory serves me correctly, I think this was her last full-length record, and it came out in 2004. Basically, this is the album that solidified Jack White as a badass. Already a huge fan of The White Stripes, when this album came out, I was floored by two things: the fact that he produced a Loretta Lynn album! and the fact that the album was fucking amazing. The record won the Grammy for Best Country Music Album in '04, and what makes it a great record is the fact that it's a true collaborative effort in that Lynn wrote all of the songs, and White helped her come out with a sound that was rich, multi-layered, and had cojones. Tracks like "Van Lear Rose" and "Have Mercy On Me" give a glimpse of White's influence on Lynn's already-stellar sound, then Lynn's signature styling comes out on tracks "Family Tree" and "Miss Being Mrs." Basically, if you haven't heard this record, please take it upon yourself to listen to it in its entirety. There's not one bad song on it. You can listen to "Mad Mrs. Leroy Brown," below:
That's all. PEACE.
Well...I expressed some minor excitement at the announcement that Garbage were coming out with a new album, even though I haven't really listened to them past Version 2.0, but let's not be repetitive. The band is currently streaming their upcoming album, Not Your Kind of People on SPIN, and if you decide that you will have absolutely nothing to do with spoilers, then you can wait until May 22nd to buy it in stores, or on iTunes on May 15th (but who honestly does that?). Having listened to the first five songs, I already have a major jones for "Big Bright World." You can hear the album here.
In other news, Fiona Apple's long anticipated album, The Idler Wheel... is also being offered in a deluxe edition, in a CD/DVD package that is also going to have some exclusive photos, artwork, and a bonus track. So, make sure you check that out if that sounds like something you'd be into. I mean, why get the standard when you can get the deluxe, am I right? The album comes out on June 19th, so mark your calendars for that one (assuming they're not digital).
Moving along...Nigel Godrich, famous for producing some of the most important work by some of our generations most important artists (including Radiohead and Beck), has come out with his own musical project, called Ultraista. He's teamed up with music artists Joey Waronker and Laura Bettison to complete the band's line-up, and they've released a video for their track, "Smalltalk," which you can view below. My first impression of this track is boredom. It just seems like basic, formulaic electronic music, which I'm sure many people will love. For me, I expected more from the man who produced The Information, one of my favorite Beck albums, but oh well.
Lastly, Pitchfork has recently interviewed Beach House. Now, I'm not a huge fan of this band's music, not saying they're bad, I just haven't gotten into it yet. Remember...I have to catch up. I'm even more inspired to hear offerings from this duo after reading the interview in which they discuss how artists have to maintain their identity in the ever-changing landscape of music. It's a very interesting and unpretentious take from an artist who know who they are, but also know their own limitations. You can read the interview at Pitchfork.
LISTENING: This morning, I listened to Van Lear Rose by Loretta Lynn. If my memory serves me correctly, I think this was her last full-length record, and it came out in 2004. Basically, this is the album that solidified Jack White as a badass. Already a huge fan of The White Stripes, when this album came out, I was floored by two things: the fact that he produced a Loretta Lynn album! and the fact that the album was fucking amazing. The record won the Grammy for Best Country Music Album in '04, and what makes it a great record is the fact that it's a true collaborative effort in that Lynn wrote all of the songs, and White helped her come out with a sound that was rich, multi-layered, and had cojones. Tracks like "Van Lear Rose" and "Have Mercy On Me" give a glimpse of White's influence on Lynn's already-stellar sound, then Lynn's signature styling comes out on tracks "Family Tree" and "Miss Being Mrs." Basically, if you haven't heard this record, please take it upon yourself to listen to it in its entirety. There's not one bad song on it. You can listen to "Mad Mrs. Leroy Brown," below:
That's all. PEACE.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Jimi, Stephen and Paul
The Magnetic Fields share new video...Andrew 3000 set to play Jimi Hendrix...Paul Simon receives Polar Music Prize...
Well, this weekend was a slow one for me, going out of town, indulging in some debauchery, and forgetting I even had a blog. But, now I'm a little more settled, back on earth, and ready to report some stuff. Firstly...The Magnetic Fields have shared a video for the track, "Quick!" off of their latest release, Love at the Bottom of the Sea. I like this track, having only watched/listened to the song once, and it's making me re-think checking out Merritt's latest endeavor, considering the only album I own is The Charm of the Highway Strip, and what random mp3s I've been able to obtain from their Distortion album, so that's more catching up I can get started on. But, you can view the "Quick!" video below:
In other news...Andre 3000 (of Outkast fame) is set to play Jimi Hendrix in a new film that is currently in pre-production. The film is supposedly going to be about Hendrix's time in England, during the recording of Are You Experienced?, so that's a pretty exciting flick to look forward to. You can listen to "Foxy Lady" off of the aforementioned album below:
Lastly, Paul Simon has received the Polar Music Prize, which is Sweden's highest award for musicians. I don't need to go into detail about how important Paul Simon is in music, all you would need to do is google the fucker to know that he's written some of the most influential and relevant music to grace the airwaves. Basically, this award was a long time coming.
LISTENING: It's been extremely slow in this area, only because I've either been too hungover to care about listening to music, or too drunk to know what was playing around me. Yes, this weekend took a toll. This morning, I snuck in some Bessie Smith while getting ready for work, and that's as far as that goes. You can hear one of her most famous tracks, "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out" below:
That's all. PEACE.
Well, this weekend was a slow one for me, going out of town, indulging in some debauchery, and forgetting I even had a blog. But, now I'm a little more settled, back on earth, and ready to report some stuff. Firstly...The Magnetic Fields have shared a video for the track, "Quick!" off of their latest release, Love at the Bottom of the Sea. I like this track, having only watched/listened to the song once, and it's making me re-think checking out Merritt's latest endeavor, considering the only album I own is The Charm of the Highway Strip, and what random mp3s I've been able to obtain from their Distortion album, so that's more catching up I can get started on. But, you can view the "Quick!" video below:
In other news...Andre 3000 (of Outkast fame) is set to play Jimi Hendrix in a new film that is currently in pre-production. The film is supposedly going to be about Hendrix's time in England, during the recording of Are You Experienced?, so that's a pretty exciting flick to look forward to. You can listen to "Foxy Lady" off of the aforementioned album below:
Lastly, Paul Simon has received the Polar Music Prize, which is Sweden's highest award for musicians. I don't need to go into detail about how important Paul Simon is in music, all you would need to do is google the fucker to know that he's written some of the most influential and relevant music to grace the airwaves. Basically, this award was a long time coming.
LISTENING: It's been extremely slow in this area, only because I've either been too hungover to care about listening to music, or too drunk to know what was playing around me. Yes, this weekend took a toll. This morning, I snuck in some Bessie Smith while getting ready for work, and that's as far as that goes. You can hear one of her most famous tracks, "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out" below:
That's all. PEACE.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Fighting For Our Rights
Adam Yauch RIP...Cursive share new video...Stream Tenacious D's new record...Kanye shares new video...Iron & Wine in the morning...
Well, let's start this off with a moment of silence/sadness for Mr. Adam Yauch also known as MCA. I wasn't a huge fan of the Beastie Boys, but I always had a level of respect and appreciation for the work they did, their influence in music, and their whole persona altogether. According to TMZ...Yauch was 47, and his death was cancer-related. An already lethargic day just got a little more intense.
On another note...Cursive share a new video for their song "Drunken Birds." Now, I haven't kept in extreme touch with this band's music, aside from my Ugly Organ worship, but I've always appreciated their style, and I've always liked Tim Kasher's voice and songwriting. The track comes off of their most recent effort, I Am Gemini, so if you like the video, check that album out. You can view that below:
Now, I know I'm a little late posting this, considering I saw it on NME a few days ago...my bad. But, Tenacious D have put their entire new album, Rize of the Fenix online. The last thing Tenacious D put out was In The Pick of Destiny in '06, so this has been their long-awaited next chapter, and from only having listened to the first four songs, it was well worth the wait. So far, I really like "Low Hanging Fruit," but I've had to put a halt to my listening...you know...cause I'm at work. Not exactly office-friendly material. But, you can listen to the album (in its entirety) below:
In other news, Kanye West has finally recorded a video for stand-out track, "Lost in the World," from his album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. This was the album that really won me over. I mean, Graduation was great, but this was weirder, more dynamic, and just a lot darker in my opinion. Yes, darkness wins me over. The track features guest vocals from Justin Vernon, of Bon Iver fame. You can view the video below:
LISTENING: Not much to report in this area, but this morning, I took to listening to Our Endless Numbered Days by Iron & Wine. This album was one of my favorites in my wayward adolescence, and Sam Beam's voice just resonated so much. Yes, it's this quiet, almost-whisper, but in terms of the lyrics and the song structures themselves, it's so fitting for his music. I normally would shun a voice like that, but in this case, I just have to shut the fuck up and let it take over. You can hear my personal favorite, "Sodom, South Georgia," below:
That's all. PEACE.
Well, let's start this off with a moment of silence/sadness for Mr. Adam Yauch also known as MCA. I wasn't a huge fan of the Beastie Boys, but I always had a level of respect and appreciation for the work they did, their influence in music, and their whole persona altogether. According to TMZ...Yauch was 47, and his death was cancer-related. An already lethargic day just got a little more intense.
On another note...Cursive share a new video for their song "Drunken Birds." Now, I haven't kept in extreme touch with this band's music, aside from my Ugly Organ worship, but I've always appreciated their style, and I've always liked Tim Kasher's voice and songwriting. The track comes off of their most recent effort, I Am Gemini, so if you like the video, check that album out. You can view that below:
Now, I know I'm a little late posting this, considering I saw it on NME a few days ago...my bad. But, Tenacious D have put their entire new album, Rize of the Fenix online. The last thing Tenacious D put out was In The Pick of Destiny in '06, so this has been their long-awaited next chapter, and from only having listened to the first four songs, it was well worth the wait. So far, I really like "Low Hanging Fruit," but I've had to put a halt to my listening...you know...cause I'm at work. Not exactly office-friendly material. But, you can listen to the album (in its entirety) below:
In other news, Kanye West has finally recorded a video for stand-out track, "Lost in the World," from his album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. This was the album that really won me over. I mean, Graduation was great, but this was weirder, more dynamic, and just a lot darker in my opinion. Yes, darkness wins me over. The track features guest vocals from Justin Vernon, of Bon Iver fame. You can view the video below:
LISTENING: Not much to report in this area, but this morning, I took to listening to Our Endless Numbered Days by Iron & Wine. This album was one of my favorites in my wayward adolescence, and Sam Beam's voice just resonated so much. Yes, it's this quiet, almost-whisper, but in terms of the lyrics and the song structures themselves, it's so fitting for his music. I normally would shun a voice like that, but in this case, I just have to shut the fuck up and let it take over. You can hear my personal favorite, "Sodom, South Georgia," below:
That's all. PEACE.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Meet Me in August
Usher talks about new album...Alanis Morissette and The Darkness also share upcoming album details...Adicts My Adicts...
Well, some exciting things for some folks. Usher has announced the details for his upcoming album, revealing the tracklist, title (Looking 4 Myself), and even sharing the album's first single, titled "Climax." My first reaction to "Climax," is that Usher is a man of the times. Taking an note from his pop/r&b contemporaries, Usher has added more futuristic sounds to his production. I mean, what can you expect from the man, he's gotta eat right? It's not exactly "Confessions," but it'll do. So, the song itself sounds like one of those songs that will grow after repeated listens (which, I'm sure the AM/FM airwaves will give it). But, you can hear the track below, and you can read the details of the album on NME.
In other news, August is proving to be a pretty exciting month. It's featuring the comebacks of two prominent musicians. First is The Darkness, who reunited last year after a hiatus. Their new album, titled Hot Cakes is set to come out on August 20th, and is said to have some "AC/DC guitar rock" and some stuff that is "more luxurious and layered." So, be on the lookout for that one and you can view the video for their breakout single, "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" below:
Now, Alanis Morissette made a big splash in the 90s with her album, Jagged Little Pill, and having an older sister who was a teen at that time, that album was played nonstop in our household. Everyone was playing it, singing it, even my parents (though I'm sure they wouldn't be proud of that). It was a quintessential 90s angst rock/pop offering that appealed to anyone who had their heart stomped on or could recall having oral sex in a movie theater. But, Morissette has announced that she's coming out with a new album on August 27, titled Havoc and Bright Lights. Personally, though most would argue, I think that Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie has been her best offering. She became more spiritual, weirder, and more experimental (which we can all appreciate). So, you can hear a stand-out track from that album (titled "Joining You") below:
LISTENING: I haven't been listening to a whole lot because I've been been working on some stuff, but I did get to sneak in a little Adicts this morning. Yes, that good ole English punk band that I missed this past year when they played a show in Austin. Pretty sad. I only have a greatest hits album, which mainly has some of their more popular stuff from the 80s. Some of my favorites by them include "Straight Jacket," "Chinese Takeaway," "Easy Way Out," and of course, "Viva La Revolution." You can hear "Straight Jacket" below:
That's all. PEACE.
Well, some exciting things for some folks. Usher has announced the details for his upcoming album, revealing the tracklist, title (Looking 4 Myself), and even sharing the album's first single, titled "Climax." My first reaction to "Climax," is that Usher is a man of the times. Taking an note from his pop/r&b contemporaries, Usher has added more futuristic sounds to his production. I mean, what can you expect from the man, he's gotta eat right? It's not exactly "Confessions," but it'll do. So, the song itself sounds like one of those songs that will grow after repeated listens (which, I'm sure the AM/FM airwaves will give it). But, you can hear the track below, and you can read the details of the album on NME.
In other news, August is proving to be a pretty exciting month. It's featuring the comebacks of two prominent musicians. First is The Darkness, who reunited last year after a hiatus. Their new album, titled Hot Cakes is set to come out on August 20th, and is said to have some "AC/DC guitar rock" and some stuff that is "more luxurious and layered." So, be on the lookout for that one and you can view the video for their breakout single, "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" below:
Now, Alanis Morissette made a big splash in the 90s with her album, Jagged Little Pill, and having an older sister who was a teen at that time, that album was played nonstop in our household. Everyone was playing it, singing it, even my parents (though I'm sure they wouldn't be proud of that). It was a quintessential 90s angst rock/pop offering that appealed to anyone who had their heart stomped on or could recall having oral sex in a movie theater. But, Morissette has announced that she's coming out with a new album on August 27, titled Havoc and Bright Lights. Personally, though most would argue, I think that Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie has been her best offering. She became more spiritual, weirder, and more experimental (which we can all appreciate). So, you can hear a stand-out track from that album (titled "Joining You") below:
LISTENING: I haven't been listening to a whole lot because I've been been working on some stuff, but I did get to sneak in a little Adicts this morning. Yes, that good ole English punk band that I missed this past year when they played a show in Austin. Pretty sad. I only have a greatest hits album, which mainly has some of their more popular stuff from the 80s. Some of my favorites by them include "Straight Jacket," "Chinese Takeaway," "Easy Way Out," and of course, "Viva La Revolution." You can hear "Straight Jacket" below:
That's all. PEACE.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Something Cruel
Santigold performs on Jimmy Fallon...St. Vincent performs "Cruel" on Jools Holland...Dr. Dog shares "Lonesome" video...Damon Albarn also performs on Jools Holland...It's a 7 Year Bitch...
Well, let's start this off with a little gold...Santigold. Yeah, that wasn't very clever, was it? Moving along, Santigold's newest endeavor, Master of My Make Believe is finally out, so I'm sure fans of her first album are throwing themselves at its mercy. But, Santigold stopped by Jimmy Fallon to play a cut from the record, which I posted a few weeks ago. You can view her performance of the track, "Disparate Youth," on Pitchfork.
St. Vincent recently stopped by Later With Jools Holland to perform the song "Cruel," off her latest album, Strange Mercy. While I still haven't fully listened to the record, just snippets here and there...I like this song, and I like her performance. So, you can view that below:
Moving along...I first heard of Dr. Dog a few years ago when a friend of mine got into their We All Belong LP. Liking their sound, I was excited when I got to interview them for an article I wrote for my college paper a couple of years ago. They were really nice, and gave a lot of good feedback, which, as a journalist, is what you want. However, I've kind of lost track of them over the years, and they currently have a newer record out, titled Be The Void, yeah that one went right over my head. Anyhow, you can view the video for their track, "Lonesome" below:
Also, I mentioned a while back that Damon Albarn (of Blur and Gorillaz) was releasing an album under his own name, titled Dr Dee about a 16th century figure who served as an adviser to Queen Elizabeth I. The album comes out next week, but Albarn stopped by Later With Jools Holland to perform the track, "Apple Carts." Now, speaking for myself, from listening to this song and seeing the performance, I think this is an album I'm going to have to check out. I like Gorillaz, and that one song by Blur that sticks in my memory, but I like his vulnerability in these softer moments, and I think he's a great vocalist. You can watch his performance below:
LISTENING: As I said before, I am kind of partial to early 90s grunge and kind of fascinated with the Riot Grrl "movement," and I think that 7 Year Bitch were one of those bands that embodied the power and carnal playing of that time. The only "official" album I own of this band is their Gato Negro LP, which I only own because a long-distant friend sent it to me in the mail. This album is great if you want to witness some kick-ass females lay into their instruments with no mercy, and with the ability to attain an authenticity of musicianship (at least when it comes to this style) that you don't find too much anymore...at lest if you're not looking hard enough. You can look at these girls as feminist, radical, rabble-rousing, (insert adjective/noun), but I think they're much more than that. Listen to "Disillusion" below to see for yourself:
That's all. PEACE.
Well, let's start this off with a little gold...Santigold. Yeah, that wasn't very clever, was it? Moving along, Santigold's newest endeavor, Master of My Make Believe is finally out, so I'm sure fans of her first album are throwing themselves at its mercy. But, Santigold stopped by Jimmy Fallon to play a cut from the record, which I posted a few weeks ago. You can view her performance of the track, "Disparate Youth," on Pitchfork.
St. Vincent recently stopped by Later With Jools Holland to perform the song "Cruel," off her latest album, Strange Mercy. While I still haven't fully listened to the record, just snippets here and there...I like this song, and I like her performance. So, you can view that below:
Moving along...I first heard of Dr. Dog a few years ago when a friend of mine got into their We All Belong LP. Liking their sound, I was excited when I got to interview them for an article I wrote for my college paper a couple of years ago. They were really nice, and gave a lot of good feedback, which, as a journalist, is what you want. However, I've kind of lost track of them over the years, and they currently have a newer record out, titled Be The Void, yeah that one went right over my head. Anyhow, you can view the video for their track, "Lonesome" below:
Also, I mentioned a while back that Damon Albarn (of Blur and Gorillaz) was releasing an album under his own name, titled Dr Dee about a 16th century figure who served as an adviser to Queen Elizabeth I. The album comes out next week, but Albarn stopped by Later With Jools Holland to perform the track, "Apple Carts." Now, speaking for myself, from listening to this song and seeing the performance, I think this is an album I'm going to have to check out. I like Gorillaz, and that one song by Blur that sticks in my memory, but I like his vulnerability in these softer moments, and I think he's a great vocalist. You can watch his performance below:
LISTENING: As I said before, I am kind of partial to early 90s grunge and kind of fascinated with the Riot Grrl "movement," and I think that 7 Year Bitch were one of those bands that embodied the power and carnal playing of that time. The only "official" album I own of this band is their Gato Negro LP, which I only own because a long-distant friend sent it to me in the mail. This album is great if you want to witness some kick-ass females lay into their instruments with no mercy, and with the ability to attain an authenticity of musicianship (at least when it comes to this style) that you don't find too much anymore...at lest if you're not looking hard enough. You can look at these girls as feminist, radical, rabble-rousing, (insert adjective/noun), but I think they're much more than that. Listen to "Disillusion" below to see for yourself:
That's all. PEACE.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Ghost...Ghost...
Jeff Mangum amazes...Pitchfork interviews Kevin Shields...Regina Spektor shares new track...Bright Light Social Hour...
Well, I have to start this off in reference to probably the greatest show I've ever seen. As I said last week, while I was gearing up for the show, Neutral Milk Hotel is one of those bands that only ran within certain circles, if you were lucky. However, from attending the show, and seeing the most eclectic assortment of fans, I guess I was a little presumptuous. Aside from that, Mangum's voice live is indescribable. It's energetic, vibrant, he sings from the heart, and he sings from the most naked, natural place a human being can muster feelings from. It's just the greatest thing, no certain way to describe it.
The first song he played was my favorite, "Two Headed Boy, Part II." Within the first opening chords, I knew I was in for something special, and special it was! He played all of his greatest stuff, including "Naomi," "Oh, Comely," "Two Headed Boy," "Gardenhead/Leave Me Alone," "Song Against Sex," and of course, he saved "In The Aeroplane Over The Sea," for last, got a standing ovation, and even had the accompaniment of Andrew, Scott, and Laura, who opened for him, to play the horn and accordion arrangements. I just can't describe any further, but if you ever get the opportunity to see him live...don't think, just do.
Moving along...Pitchfork recently interviewed Kevin Shields in anticipation for a number of re-issues that are coming out on May 7th, which include the band's first and second albums (Isn't Anything and Loveless). In the interview, Shields discusses why the re-issues took so long to come out, in regards to rumors about them 8 years ago, and how the master-tapes were "stolen." You can read the interview on Pitchfork.
In other news, Regina Spektor has shared another song from her upcoming album, What We Saw From The Cheap Seats, which comes out on May 12. The track is decent. Maybe after a few more listens, I'll warm up to it a little more, for now, it just seems like it would be "filler" material on the record, but of course, I won't know that until I hear the whole thing. You can listen to it below:
LISTENING: I've spent the better part of this morning researching and listening to Bright Light Social Hour, to prepare for an interview with them tomorrow afternoon. I like that this Austin band mixes so many weird sounds together, to form this sort of jumble of inspirations that border on blues/psychedelic, with pop-disco influences. If I had to simplify it, I would say that their formula is sort of Black Keys meets Phoenix. In any case, I've been listening to their self-titled debut album, which is pretty good. I'd definitely recommend it, and I'm still only 7 songs into the 9-song album. So far, I like "Shanty," "Detroit," and "Men of the Sea." You can hear "Shanty" below, and this video was taken from the New Years Live show at The Parish, which they turned into an EP that came out in March of '11. Enjoy...
That's all. PEACE.
Well, I have to start this off in reference to probably the greatest show I've ever seen. As I said last week, while I was gearing up for the show, Neutral Milk Hotel is one of those bands that only ran within certain circles, if you were lucky. However, from attending the show, and seeing the most eclectic assortment of fans, I guess I was a little presumptuous. Aside from that, Mangum's voice live is indescribable. It's energetic, vibrant, he sings from the heart, and he sings from the most naked, natural place a human being can muster feelings from. It's just the greatest thing, no certain way to describe it.
The first song he played was my favorite, "Two Headed Boy, Part II." Within the first opening chords, I knew I was in for something special, and special it was! He played all of his greatest stuff, including "Naomi," "Oh, Comely," "Two Headed Boy," "Gardenhead/Leave Me Alone," "Song Against Sex," and of course, he saved "In The Aeroplane Over The Sea," for last, got a standing ovation, and even had the accompaniment of Andrew, Scott, and Laura, who opened for him, to play the horn and accordion arrangements. I just can't describe any further, but if you ever get the opportunity to see him live...don't think, just do.
Moving along...Pitchfork recently interviewed Kevin Shields in anticipation for a number of re-issues that are coming out on May 7th, which include the band's first and second albums (Isn't Anything and Loveless). In the interview, Shields discusses why the re-issues took so long to come out, in regards to rumors about them 8 years ago, and how the master-tapes were "stolen." You can read the interview on Pitchfork.
In other news, Regina Spektor has shared another song from her upcoming album, What We Saw From The Cheap Seats, which comes out on May 12. The track is decent. Maybe after a few more listens, I'll warm up to it a little more, for now, it just seems like it would be "filler" material on the record, but of course, I won't know that until I hear the whole thing. You can listen to it below:
LISTENING: I've spent the better part of this morning researching and listening to Bright Light Social Hour, to prepare for an interview with them tomorrow afternoon. I like that this Austin band mixes so many weird sounds together, to form this sort of jumble of inspirations that border on blues/psychedelic, with pop-disco influences. If I had to simplify it, I would say that their formula is sort of Black Keys meets Phoenix. In any case, I've been listening to their self-titled debut album, which is pretty good. I'd definitely recommend it, and I'm still only 7 songs into the 9-song album. So far, I like "Shanty," "Detroit," and "Men of the Sea." You can hear "Shanty" below, and this video was taken from the New Years Live show at The Parish, which they turned into an EP that came out in March of '11. Enjoy...
That's all. PEACE.
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