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.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
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.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Brains and Buckets
Ty Segall Band share song...The Offspring release new track...Bob Dylan receives high honor...Thoughts on "Blunderbuss"...
I mentioned last week that garage-rock musician Ty Segall is set to release an album this summer under "The Ty Segall Band" moniker, and he's unveiled their first single, a heavy-handed track titled "Wave Goodbye." Listening to Ty Segall has been sparse for me within the past few months, only because there is constantly new music coming out, so it's hard to keep track, especially when this fool is releasing three albums in one year. Ambitious much? Let's just say that this track is a nice tune, full of heavy guitars, and a fairly lo-fi sound. Could you expect anything less? You can listen to the track on Stereogum.
The Offspring...hmm...well, I guess my introduction to them came around the time when they released their album, Americana in 1998. And like most kids my age, "Pretty Fly (For A White Guy)" and "Why Don't You Get A Job?" were constant replays. But that's about as far as my "liking" The Offspring goes. As I got older, their sound just didn't click with me, and I thought Dexter Holland's vocals were extremely annoying. But, I know this band has had a growing fan-base since they first started writing/recording in the early 80s, so I'm sure there are going to be a few upside-down frowns at the release of their new track, "Days Go By" off of their upcoming album, also titled Days Go By. The album comes out on June 25th, but until then, you can hear the track below:
In some pretty exciting news, well exciting for Bob Dylan, he's receiving the Medal of Freedom, which is America's highest civilian honor. He's not only being recognized for his loooong musical career, but more for his activism and self-penned anthems, which include one of my personal favorites "The Times They Are A'Changin," which was written at the height of the Civil Rights Movement. You can view a video of Dylan playing the track live below. Also, Toni Morrison is receiving the award. Morrison is one of the greatest living writers, and if you don't believe me, try reading Jazz or Beloved. Both are excellent novels that fuse poetic ambiance with controversial and dark stories that speak of the plight of African Americans haunted by literal and figurative ghosts. Read them.
The Times They Are A'Changin (1965):
LISTENING: I set aside this morning to finally listen to Blunderbuss, the long-awaited and much-talked about album by Jack White. I've listened to the album in full (twice), while going about my normal work routine. And my first impression of the album is to say that it's cute. Now, I know most "manly" Jack White fans will ask, "WHAT? CUTE?" Well, take into consideration that White has had a long and eventful career. He started off in the mid to late 90s, and has...10?...albums under his belt. Well, 11, if you want to count this one. But, saying that it's "cute" isn't a bad thing at all. I think that in terms of what White is bringing forth, it's a fairly accurate word of what I perceive to be a more mature artist combining elements of his past musical projects and fusing them onto one record. In a sense, I feel like this is his "love letter" to the work that he's done in the past, the people he's met along the way, and to whatever the future is going to bring, which might come pretty soon considering he's been quoted as saying that he already has enough material for a second solo album.
"Sixteen Saltines" harks back to the more free-flow, thrashy side of The White Stripes, while songs like "Hypocritical Kiss" kind of remind me of soft moments of The White Stripes, as seen on "I Wanna Be The Boy to Warm Your Mother's Heart" on Elephant. And then there are a couple of tracks that remind me of The Raconteurs, and maybe one that reminds me of The Dead Weather ("Missing Pieces"). Now, I hate to go into this record, and compare it to his other projects, but it's kind of hard not to. It may be a little presumptuous of me, but I feel like when it comes to Jack White, you kind of know what to expect from his records, no matter what musical project he's in. It's not to say they all sound the same, but they all contain the same basic elements, which in effect, makes them similar. I think the album is good...there's no question about that. The album is more full of whimsical, playful moments rather than relying solely on White's heavy riffs, which I like. So far, my favorite tracks include "Blunderbuss," "Weep Themselves to Sleep," "Hip (Eponymous) Poor Boy," (Which you can hear below) and "Take Me With You When You Go."
That's all. PEACE.
I mentioned last week that garage-rock musician Ty Segall is set to release an album this summer under "The Ty Segall Band" moniker, and he's unveiled their first single, a heavy-handed track titled "Wave Goodbye." Listening to Ty Segall has been sparse for me within the past few months, only because there is constantly new music coming out, so it's hard to keep track, especially when this fool is releasing three albums in one year. Ambitious much? Let's just say that this track is a nice tune, full of heavy guitars, and a fairly lo-fi sound. Could you expect anything less? You can listen to the track on Stereogum.
The Offspring...hmm...well, I guess my introduction to them came around the time when they released their album, Americana in 1998. And like most kids my age, "Pretty Fly (For A White Guy)" and "Why Don't You Get A Job?" were constant replays. But that's about as far as my "liking" The Offspring goes. As I got older, their sound just didn't click with me, and I thought Dexter Holland's vocals were extremely annoying. But, I know this band has had a growing fan-base since they first started writing/recording in the early 80s, so I'm sure there are going to be a few upside-down frowns at the release of their new track, "Days Go By" off of their upcoming album, also titled Days Go By. The album comes out on June 25th, but until then, you can hear the track below:
In some pretty exciting news, well exciting for Bob Dylan, he's receiving the Medal of Freedom, which is America's highest civilian honor. He's not only being recognized for his loooong musical career, but more for his activism and self-penned anthems, which include one of my personal favorites "The Times They Are A'Changin," which was written at the height of the Civil Rights Movement. You can view a video of Dylan playing the track live below. Also, Toni Morrison is receiving the award. Morrison is one of the greatest living writers, and if you don't believe me, try reading Jazz or Beloved. Both are excellent novels that fuse poetic ambiance with controversial and dark stories that speak of the plight of African Americans haunted by literal and figurative ghosts. Read them.
The Times They Are A'Changin (1965):
LISTENING: I set aside this morning to finally listen to Blunderbuss, the long-awaited and much-talked about album by Jack White. I've listened to the album in full (twice), while going about my normal work routine. And my first impression of the album is to say that it's cute. Now, I know most "manly" Jack White fans will ask, "WHAT? CUTE?" Well, take into consideration that White has had a long and eventful career. He started off in the mid to late 90s, and has...10?...albums under his belt. Well, 11, if you want to count this one. But, saying that it's "cute" isn't a bad thing at all. I think that in terms of what White is bringing forth, it's a fairly accurate word of what I perceive to be a more mature artist combining elements of his past musical projects and fusing them onto one record. In a sense, I feel like this is his "love letter" to the work that he's done in the past, the people he's met along the way, and to whatever the future is going to bring, which might come pretty soon considering he's been quoted as saying that he already has enough material for a second solo album.
"Sixteen Saltines" harks back to the more free-flow, thrashy side of The White Stripes, while songs like "Hypocritical Kiss" kind of remind me of soft moments of The White Stripes, as seen on "I Wanna Be The Boy to Warm Your Mother's Heart" on Elephant. And then there are a couple of tracks that remind me of The Raconteurs, and maybe one that reminds me of The Dead Weather ("Missing Pieces"). Now, I hate to go into this record, and compare it to his other projects, but it's kind of hard not to. It may be a little presumptuous of me, but I feel like when it comes to Jack White, you kind of know what to expect from his records, no matter what musical project he's in. It's not to say they all sound the same, but they all contain the same basic elements, which in effect, makes them similar. I think the album is good...there's no question about that. The album is more full of whimsical, playful moments rather than relying solely on White's heavy riffs, which I like. So far, my favorite tracks include "Blunderbuss," "Weep Themselves to Sleep," "Hip (Eponymous) Poor Boy," (Which you can hear below) and "Take Me With You When You Go."
That's all. PEACE.
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