UPCOMING RELEASES:
Lykke Li, Deerhoof, Fleet Foxes, Does It Offend You, Yeah?, Hercules & Love Affair, The Go!Team, Akron/Family, Cut Copy, Wire, Fujiya & Miyagi, Gang of Four, Mogwai, Tennis, La Sera (the Vivian Girls sideproject whose single was in digital rotation), Cold War Kids, Cage the Elephant, Iron and Wine, Panda Bear, Crystal Stilts, Smith Westerns, Yuck (buzzzzzzz band), The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, The Babies, Woven Bones, Toro Y Moi, Cloud Nothings (even though they just dropped one 2 months back), Hunx and His Punx, Times New Viking
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Kraak & Smaak
Artist- Kraak & Smaak
Album- Dynamite [Single]
Label- Jalepeno
Genre- house, rpm
This funk-house track by Dutch group Kraak & Smaak is pretty friggin catchy. Nonsensical lyrics (“tricky licky…etc”). The 3min (opposed to 6 minute original) radio edit is the best version of the track. The only good remix in my opinion is the Pink Elephant one, which is crunchy and blows up in the style of Justice’s “Waters of Nazareth” right around the 2 minute mark.
Album- Dynamite [Single]
Label- Jalepeno
Genre- house, rpm
This funk-house track by Dutch group Kraak & Smaak is pretty friggin catchy. Nonsensical lyrics (“tricky licky…etc”). The 3min (opposed to 6 minute original) radio edit is the best version of the track. The only good remix in my opinion is the Pink Elephant one, which is crunchy and blows up in the style of Justice’s “Waters of Nazareth” right around the 2 minute mark.
The Elves of Heaven
Artist- The Elves of Heaven
Album- This Christmas EP
Label- Seaport
This cute EP sounds totally different on each song. #1 is like the Raveonettes performing Xmas tunes! #2 has a male singer doing his best Lou Reed impression to a slower tune, with a kind of talk-singing about the tale of some dude who’s down on his luck. #3 is an “alternate take” (you could say) on “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” – except he “ain’t” comin’! Sadness!!!! Anyway, this is adorable.
Album- This Christmas EP
Label- Seaport
This cute EP sounds totally different on each song. #1 is like the Raveonettes performing Xmas tunes! #2 has a male singer doing his best Lou Reed impression to a slower tune, with a kind of talk-singing about the tale of some dude who’s down on his luck. #3 is an “alternate take” (you could say) on “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” – except he “ain’t” comin’! Sadness!!!! Anyway, this is adorable.
Exray's
Artist- Exray's
Album- Ammunition Teeth [EP]
Label- Howells Transmitter
Really dreamy lo-fi indie pop. The band’s song “Hesitation” was featured in The Social Network. The vocals seem faraway and sleepy in a darling indie way, anchored by beats and some cool synth noises. This EP features Nate Query of the Decemberists, and the full-length (in January) will have Tim Cohen of the Fresh & Only’s.
Album- Ammunition Teeth [EP]
Label- Howells Transmitter
Really dreamy lo-fi indie pop. The band’s song “Hesitation” was featured in The Social Network. The vocals seem faraway and sleepy in a darling indie way, anchored by beats and some cool synth noises. This EP features Nate Query of the Decemberists, and the full-length (in January) will have Tim Cohen of the Fresh & Only’s.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Daft Punk
Artist- Daft Punk
Album- Tron: Legacy OST
Label- Disney
Genre- soundtrack
After weeks of anticipation, here it is. I want to like this – I honestly do – but it sounds a lot like other movie soundtracks. (“Recognizer” sounds like Inception). It’s orchestral, sweeping, and moody. Nothing has that initial badass moment like early single “Derezzed”, except for the dancey “End Titles”. It’s a pretty damn good movie soundtrack, and DP can certainly command this 85-piece orchestra, but don’t expect too many dance moments.
Album- Tron: Legacy OST
Label- Disney
Genre- soundtrack
After weeks of anticipation, here it is. I want to like this – I honestly do – but it sounds a lot like other movie soundtracks. (“Recognizer” sounds like Inception). It’s orchestral, sweeping, and moody. Nothing has that initial badass moment like early single “Derezzed”, except for the dancey “End Titles”. It’s a pretty damn good movie soundtrack, and DP can certainly command this 85-piece orchestra, but don’t expect too many dance moments.
The Naked and Famous
Artist- The Naked and Famous
Album- Passive Me, Aggressive You
Label- Somewhat Damaged
Blend of 80's electronic, shoegazer, and synthesizer to make a cd that rocks along the lines of a less-annoying Passion Pit. This New Zealand band’s debut is HIGHLY impressive, and singer Alisa Xayalith’s vocals are crazyyy. This is dreamy and exciting at the same time. Check this out for sure. #2 and #7 are the “singles”, but #5 is dark and creepy in a Radiohead Kid A kind of way.
For fans of: Empire of the Sun, Passion Pit
Album- Passive Me, Aggressive You
Label- Somewhat Damaged
Blend of 80's electronic, shoegazer, and synthesizer to make a cd that rocks along the lines of a less-annoying Passion Pit. This New Zealand band’s debut is HIGHLY impressive, and singer Alisa Xayalith’s vocals are crazyyy. This is dreamy and exciting at the same time. Check this out for sure. #2 and #7 are the “singles”, but #5 is dark and creepy in a Radiohead Kid A kind of way.
For fans of: Empire of the Sun, Passion Pit
Gospel Music
Artist- Gospel Music
Album- Duettes
Label- Kill Rock Stars
Genre- cutesy indie folk
This EP is the project of Owen Holmes from Black Kids (the bass player), performing duets with members of Vivian Girls (5), Camera Obscura (3), Magnetic Fields (2), and more. Holmes has the voice of Adam Green, Calvin Johnson, or Jonathan Richman (low, sing-talking), and all the female vocalists are lovely. Acoustic guitars or the occasional banjo provides backing music. This EP is adorable all around.
Album- Duettes
Label- Kill Rock Stars
Genre- cutesy indie folk
This EP is the project of Owen Holmes from Black Kids (the bass player), performing duets with members of Vivian Girls (5), Camera Obscura (3), Magnetic Fields (2), and more. Holmes has the voice of Adam Green, Calvin Johnson, or Jonathan Richman (low, sing-talking), and all the female vocalists are lovely. Acoustic guitars or the occasional banjo provides backing music. This EP is adorable all around.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Various Artists
Artist- v/a
Album- Friends and Friends of Friends Vol 3
Label- Tender Loving Empire
This 2-disc (with over 40 tracks) set is twofold in scope: the "Neighbors" disc gathers the best of bands currently from or settled in Portland, Oregon;
"Pen-Pals" are bands from elsewhere. There’s some familiar names (Y La Bamba, Social Studies, the Love Language) and a whole lot of unknowns. However, don’t be put off! Each CD has a number of gems. There’s something here for everyone.
Album- Friends and Friends of Friends Vol 3
Label- Tender Loving Empire
This 2-disc (with over 40 tracks) set is twofold in scope: the "Neighbors" disc gathers the best of bands currently from or settled in Portland, Oregon;
"Pen-Pals" are bands from elsewhere. There’s some familiar names (Y La Bamba, Social Studies, the Love Language) and a whole lot of unknowns. However, don’t be put off! Each CD has a number of gems. There’s something here for everyone.
Midnight Juggernauts
Artist- Midnight Juggernauts
Album- The Crystal Axis
Label- Siberia
Genre- synth rock
Synth-rock that’s percussive and groovy, and a nice sophomore effort at that. I definitely hear prog, 70’s influences as well. This band supported Justice after their first album was released, but they sound nothing like those Frenchies. Track 4 (“The New Technology”) is heavily indebted to Kraut-rock.
For Fans Of: The Presets, Cut Copy, Thieves Like Us, Van She
Album- The Crystal Axis
Label- Siberia
Genre- synth rock
Synth-rock that’s percussive and groovy, and a nice sophomore effort at that. I definitely hear prog, 70’s influences as well. This band supported Justice after their first album was released, but they sound nothing like those Frenchies. Track 4 (“The New Technology”) is heavily indebted to Kraut-rock.
For Fans Of: The Presets, Cut Copy, Thieves Like Us, Van She
Monday, November 29, 2010
Royksopp - Senior
Artist - Royksopp
Album - Senior
Label - Astralwerks
Genre - Swedish chill melancholy electronica
I love this album because I love Royksopp, not because it is incredible. However, it is still quite good. If you enjoy melancholy Swedish electronic music, executed flawlessly, adding small unexpected details to their tracks in all the right places, knowing just how to tug at one’s heartstrings with just a melody, then this is for you. Vocals are absent on this album, an interestingly contrasting sequel to 2009’s poppy Junior, which featured, among others, Robyn and Karin Dreijer. That said, I might not appreciate Senior as much were it not for the prequel – for example, Tricky Two is a solid track on its own, but I may not appreciate it as much were it not for Tricky, arguably the catchiest tune on Junior. Notwithstanding, there are 100% new tracks which I love as well – Senior Living (4) and The Fear (7) contain the attention to tiny details I expect from this seasoned band. Part of me feels that this album is a creative plateau, but that does not make it bad. Listen and enjoy.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Deluka
Artist- Deluka
Album- You Are the Night
Label- Vel
Genre- electropop
Deluka’s debut album has been hotly anticipated after they released their excellent EP of electro dance rock tracks in 2009. Frontwoman Ellie Innocenti is the clear star of this album, bringing a ton of attitude to her vocal performance (hints of Karen O on “OMFG”). “Snapshot” sounds like a fleshed-out, electro version of the Ting Tings. This album has great hooks, energetic drumming, and fantastic guitar riffs set off by synths.
Album- You Are the Night
Label- Vel
Genre- electropop
Deluka’s debut album has been hotly anticipated after they released their excellent EP of electro dance rock tracks in 2009. Frontwoman Ellie Innocenti is the clear star of this album, bringing a ton of attitude to her vocal performance (hints of Karen O on “OMFG”). “Snapshot” sounds like a fleshed-out, electro version of the Ting Tings. This album has great hooks, energetic drumming, and fantastic guitar riffs set off by synths.
Coastwest Unrest
Artist- Coastwest Unrest
Album- Old Weird Americana
Label- Reclaim
Folk-punk along the lines of Ghost Mice or This Bike is a Pipe Bomb. I could totally see this guys playing a basement show somewhere. The vocals are a bit gruff, but it works surprisingly well. The skittish hiccupping drumbeats are a nice feature as well. Violins flourishes are well employed. It’s definitely a step away from the typical indie-pop we play, but give this album a listen.
Album- Old Weird Americana
Label- Reclaim
Folk-punk along the lines of Ghost Mice or This Bike is a Pipe Bomb. I could totally see this guys playing a basement show somewhere. The vocals are a bit gruff, but it works surprisingly well. The skittish hiccupping drumbeats are a nice feature as well. Violins flourishes are well employed. It’s definitely a step away from the typical indie-pop we play, but give this album a listen.
Charles Bradley
Artist- Charles Bradley
Album- No Time for Dreaming
Label- Daptone
Genre- soul
This funk and soul album comes from Daptone Records, home of Sharon Jones & the Dapkings and the Budos Band among other acts. Bradley is a hard-hitting soul belter who sounds at times like James Brown, especially in his coaxing “cmons!” and guttural noises. The Menahan Street Band (sampled frequently by Jay-Z and 50 Cent, randomly) provide excellent backing instrumentation (not as heavy as Budos Band, for example).
This album perfectly reinvents the soul movement of the 1960s and ‘70s into something gut-wrenching, beautiful, and modern.
Album- No Time for Dreaming
Label- Daptone
Genre- soul
This funk and soul album comes from Daptone Records, home of Sharon Jones & the Dapkings and the Budos Band among other acts. Bradley is a hard-hitting soul belter who sounds at times like James Brown, especially in his coaxing “cmons!” and guttural noises. The Menahan Street Band (sampled frequently by Jay-Z and 50 Cent, randomly) provide excellent backing instrumentation (not as heavy as Budos Band, for example).
This album perfectly reinvents the soul movement of the 1960s and ‘70s into something gut-wrenching, beautiful, and modern.
The Greenhornes
Artist- The Greenhornes
Album- ****
Label- Third Man
Genre- vintage sounding 60's
The Greenhornes are best known for containing half of the Raconteurs (the bassist and drummer), yet this garage band has predates that musical project. They clearly have been playing their copy of 60’s compilation Nuggets on repeat, since this albums is heavily indebted to the Zombies and the Who. Single “Better Off Without It” sounds like a lost Kinks track.
Album- ****
Label- Third Man
Genre- vintage sounding 60's
The Greenhornes are best known for containing half of the Raconteurs (the bassist and drummer), yet this garage band has predates that musical project. They clearly have been playing their copy of 60’s compilation Nuggets on repeat, since this albums is heavily indebted to the Zombies and the Who. Single “Better Off Without It” sounds like a lost Kinks track.
Soft Circle
Artist- Soft Circle
Album- Shore Obsessed
Label- PPM
Genre- electronic, experiemental
This is the new project of Hisham Bharoocha, one of the founding members of both Black Dice and Lightning Bolt. The music here steps away from his prior, more aggressive-sounding bands and is full of great drumming and looped-out guitars. Pretty synth-heavy as well. Pleasant male vocals. Sounds a lot like White Dragon or Lucky Dragons. This album is really excellent, I could not recommend it more.
Album- Shore Obsessed
Label- PPM
Genre- electronic, experiemental
This is the new project of Hisham Bharoocha, one of the founding members of both Black Dice and Lightning Bolt. The music here steps away from his prior, more aggressive-sounding bands and is full of great drumming and looped-out guitars. Pretty synth-heavy as well. Pleasant male vocals. Sounds a lot like White Dragon or Lucky Dragons. This album is really excellent, I could not recommend it more.
Girls
Artist- Girls
Album- Broken Dreams Club EP
Label- True Panther Sounds
Genre- indie rock
With 6 songs clocking in at 30 minutes, San Francisco outfit Girls randomly dropped this EP as a “thanks” to everyone who supported their debut album (literally titled Album). “Oh So Protective One” features gorgeous horn flourishes over Christopher Owens’ trademarked, pseudo-Costello voice. We have the usual Girls lyrical themes: getting high to escape problems (#3, though the whammy bar on this track is annoying) and heartbreak (any of them). The mood on this album is less triumphant than Album, with bummer lyrics like “Who wants something real / when you can have nothing?”.
Album- Broken Dreams Club EP
Label- True Panther Sounds
Genre- indie rock
With 6 songs clocking in at 30 minutes, San Francisco outfit Girls randomly dropped this EP as a “thanks” to everyone who supported their debut album (literally titled Album). “Oh So Protective One” features gorgeous horn flourishes over Christopher Owens’ trademarked, pseudo-Costello voice. We have the usual Girls lyrical themes: getting high to escape problems (#3, though the whammy bar on this track is annoying) and heartbreak (any of them). The mood on this album is less triumphant than Album, with bummer lyrics like “Who wants something real / when you can have nothing?”.
Apache Beat
Artist- Apache Beat
Album- Last Chants
Label- Babylon
This band is not easy to categorize by any means; this album is very experimental and so the song selection is very diverse, making it very intriguing. However, while it is impressive to create such a unique array of songs, one might be thrown off while listening to the CD (they might like one song to find there isn’t much else that sounds like that one song). One definitely will feel in some of the songs a certain element of post-punk rock, but other songs slow down and explore a different side of things, and regardless of what sound they band is dabbling with it is all very composed and intricate. These are talented artists that really demonstrate on this album that they are not a one trick pony, but I find myself feeling a little confused in not really feeling a strong point of view due to the diversity. Over all, Apache Beat delivers a lot of intriguing, well composed songs that have a strong back beat and good vocals. If one is looking for something that is creative, calming, and yet a little dark/edgy there is a good bet you will find something on this album that will peak your interest.
Album- Last Chants
Label- Babylon
This band is not easy to categorize by any means; this album is very experimental and so the song selection is very diverse, making it very intriguing. However, while it is impressive to create such a unique array of songs, one might be thrown off while listening to the CD (they might like one song to find there isn’t much else that sounds like that one song). One definitely will feel in some of the songs a certain element of post-punk rock, but other songs slow down and explore a different side of things, and regardless of what sound they band is dabbling with it is all very composed and intricate. These are talented artists that really demonstrate on this album that they are not a one trick pony, but I find myself feeling a little confused in not really feeling a strong point of view due to the diversity. Over all, Apache Beat delivers a lot of intriguing, well composed songs that have a strong back beat and good vocals. If one is looking for something that is creative, calming, and yet a little dark/edgy there is a good bet you will find something on this album that will peak your interest.
Screaming Females
Artist- Screaming Females
Album- Castle Talk
Label- Don Giovanni
While this album was not exactly what I was expecting, I still enjoyed it greatly. When one hears the name screaming females, I feel, it is difficult to not have a vision of what the vocals will be. However, this band name is misleading. While the singer is female, she is not screaming, in fact she has a very pleasant voice that has just a hint of unrefinement (not a real word). The real great part of this album/band is not the vocalist though, it is the instrumentals. They have a really unique balance between a garage punk sounding instrumentals and your more everyday poppy indie rock sound. This is cool, but also sometimes confusing, for some songs you listen to and you are like this is sick, and then it switches on you. However, I feel this really isn’t a huge deal and it does bring something new to the table, which I feel is enjoyable. This is a great album for people that like indie rock but want just a little more grime in the sound.
Album- Castle Talk
Label- Don Giovanni
While this album was not exactly what I was expecting, I still enjoyed it greatly. When one hears the name screaming females, I feel, it is difficult to not have a vision of what the vocals will be. However, this band name is misleading. While the singer is female, she is not screaming, in fact she has a very pleasant voice that has just a hint of unrefinement (not a real word). The real great part of this album/band is not the vocalist though, it is the instrumentals. They have a really unique balance between a garage punk sounding instrumentals and your more everyday poppy indie rock sound. This is cool, but also sometimes confusing, for some songs you listen to and you are like this is sick, and then it switches on you. However, I feel this really isn’t a huge deal and it does bring something new to the table, which I feel is enjoyable. This is a great album for people that like indie rock but want just a little more grime in the sound.
Tyvek
Artist- Tyvek
Album- Nothing Fits
Label- In the Red
Genre- garage punk
Tyvek is a band that has been around for a little while, but this is their first album on a more recognized label. However, this does not mean that they polished up their sound and collapsed to corporate demands; no, Tyvek, for those that know them, have stuck to their signature sound, a real raw, genuine garage punk. The album delivers all of the essentials; you got fast paced guitar riffs, heavy bass in the background, simple/clever lyrics, and an unpolished sound. For someone that does not know garage punk this is a good album to listen to, for Tyvek knows what they are doing and they do it well (if you do know the genre this will be just what you were hoping for). In general this album is good for new listeners and old listeners alike, and will surely get you blood pumping and your foot tapping.
Album- Nothing Fits
Label- In the Red
Genre- garage punk
Tyvek is a band that has been around for a little while, but this is their first album on a more recognized label. However, this does not mean that they polished up their sound and collapsed to corporate demands; no, Tyvek, for those that know them, have stuck to their signature sound, a real raw, genuine garage punk. The album delivers all of the essentials; you got fast paced guitar riffs, heavy bass in the background, simple/clever lyrics, and an unpolished sound. For someone that does not know garage punk this is a good album to listen to, for Tyvek knows what they are doing and they do it well (if you do know the genre this will be just what you were hoping for). In general this album is good for new listeners and old listeners alike, and will surely get you blood pumping and your foot tapping.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Jamaica
Artist- jamaica
Album- Cross the Fader EP
Label- Cooperative
French electroc-rock that’s produced by Xavier de Rosnay of Justica and Daft Punk’s sound engineer. This shit has pedigree. Massive riffs (track 1) carry these songs, and the vocals have the catchiness of Phoenix.
For fans of: mr. Oizo, Phoenix, Breakbot, catchy shit
Album- Cross the Fader EP
Label- Cooperative
French electroc-rock that’s produced by Xavier de Rosnay of Justica and Daft Punk’s sound engineer. This shit has pedigree. Massive riffs (track 1) carry these songs, and the vocals have the catchiness of Phoenix.
For fans of: mr. Oizo, Phoenix, Breakbot, catchy shit
Monday, November 15, 2010
Robyn
Artist - Robyn
Album - Body Talk Pt. 3
Label - Konichiwa
Genre - Dance-y Girl Pop
I’ve been awaiting the third installment of Robyn’s Body Talk with great anticipation, mostly hoping it would emulate the exciting variety of Part 1 as opposed to the plateauing of Part 2. For this album, Robyn has compiled a tracklist of the “best” tracks from Parts 1 and 2, and I agree with her choices. Regarding the 5 new tracks: I salute the production of Part 3. It’s shimmery, infectious, and a little more so meant for the clubs than either of its predecessors. The lyrical content is somewhat tacky and forced – not to say Part 1 wasn’t tacky, but I could appreciate it for what it was. I think Robyn could have done a little better… but Indestructible is a truly great track, and I find myself humming Time Machine way more than I ought to. All in all, this was somewhere in between Parts 1 and 2 for me. Here’s to the Swedes for another great dance-pop production!
Voltaire Twins
Artist - Voltaire Twins
Album - Voltaire Twins EP
Label - s/r (Voltaire Twins)
Genre - electro pop
Sounds like all that currently popular shimmery electro-pop (think Class Actress and Mariage Blanc), but with a twist of the 80s. The duetting male and female vocalists over writhing, multilayered synths sound a little corny, but hey, everyone needs a little of that sometimes. Unfortunately, it doesn’t really do it for me, and I really like corny stuff. It’s a little forced and awkward. Perhaps with some refinement I’d enjoy the Voltaire Twins – I hope their full length will impress to a greater degree.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Bad Books
Artist- Bad Books
Album- s/t
Label- Favorite Gentleman
Genre- indiepop
Evolving as a side project, Bad Books is an indie rock super group, including Kevin Devine and members of Manchester Orchestra. It's a fairly straight-forward indie rock album with a heavy-pop backbone. These tracks are pretty decent toe-tappers with a nice tendency to swell into full-out, Conor Oberst-eque choruses.
Album- s/t
Label- Favorite Gentleman
Genre- indiepop
Evolving as a side project, Bad Books is an indie rock super group, including Kevin Devine and members of Manchester Orchestra. It's a fairly straight-forward indie rock album with a heavy-pop backbone. These tracks are pretty decent toe-tappers with a nice tendency to swell into full-out, Conor Oberst-eque choruses.
Warpaint
Artist- Warpaint
Album- The Fool
Label- Rough Trade
All-girl LA quartet revives the sound of early 90's 4AD, especially the mellower end of Throwing Muses. Dueling, languid vocals weave over spare, angular guitar figures (chorus pedals: ON). Other influences show through: "Undertow" recalls Nirvana's "Polly"; and "Baby", one of two largely acoustic numbers (the other is "Shadows") quotes the Beatles' "Long,Long,Long". There are no obvious singles here, but the best song is probably the faintly-menacing, bass-heavy "Bees", also fine is the incantatory "Composure", which shows off the band's excellent rhythm section. A promising debut.
Album- The Fool
Label- Rough Trade
All-girl LA quartet revives the sound of early 90's 4AD, especially the mellower end of Throwing Muses. Dueling, languid vocals weave over spare, angular guitar figures (chorus pedals: ON). Other influences show through: "Undertow" recalls Nirvana's "Polly"; and "Baby", one of two largely acoustic numbers (the other is "Shadows") quotes the Beatles' "Long,Long,Long". There are no obvious singles here, but the best song is probably the faintly-menacing, bass-heavy "Bees", also fine is the incantatory "Composure", which shows off the band's excellent rhythm section. A promising debut.
Marnie Stern
Artist- Marnie Stern
Album- s/t
Label- Kill Rock Stars
Genre- RAWK
New York local Marnie Stern's self-titled third album finds the virtuoso guitar girl still shredding and pumping out more of the compelling, melodious rock music for which she won so much critical acclaim. Absolutely huge, layered spacious chord-like vocals atop of Stern's highly technical guitar parts. Crazy cadence turns, tempo shifts, and frenzied finger-tapping aboudn, especially on "Gimme" and "Female Guitar Players are the New Black". Stern is undeniably technically proficient and full of attitude, and her catchy melodies and accessible yet sometimes vulnerable voice make this album all the more incredible.
Album- s/t
Label- Kill Rock Stars
Genre- RAWK
New York local Marnie Stern's self-titled third album finds the virtuoso guitar girl still shredding and pumping out more of the compelling, melodious rock music for which she won so much critical acclaim. Absolutely huge, layered spacious chord-like vocals atop of Stern's highly technical guitar parts. Crazy cadence turns, tempo shifts, and frenzied finger-tapping aboudn, especially on "Gimme" and "Female Guitar Players are the New Black". Stern is undeniably technically proficient and full of attitude, and her catchy melodies and accessible yet sometimes vulnerable voice make this album all the more incredible.
The Duke Spirit
Artist- The Duke Spirit
Album- Kusama EP
Label- Shangri-Las
Genre- indie rock
This EP by the UK rock band only has 3 tracks. The single, “Everybody’s Under Your Spell”, sounds like a less-annoying version of the Dead Weather. Singer Leila Moss sounds like she would have a great stage prescence. There is a hint of swampy blues vibe underneath all the swagger. “Northbound” is pretty sultry with a softer vibe.
Album- Kusama EP
Label- Shangri-Las
Genre- indie rock
This EP by the UK rock band only has 3 tracks. The single, “Everybody’s Under Your Spell”, sounds like a less-annoying version of the Dead Weather. Singer Leila Moss sounds like she would have a great stage prescence. There is a hint of swampy blues vibe underneath all the swagger. “Northbound” is pretty sultry with a softer vibe.
Masonic
Artist- Masonic
Album- Live like a Millionaire
Label- Self-released
Genre- indie pop
This charming indie-pop album is well produced and has a wide appeal- in fact, the only real negative is the long running-time (15 tracks…). Singer Eryn Getty has a cute, girl-next-door type of voice. The songs alternate between boring and dull and poppy indie (the picks). Kind of an Apples in Stereo vibe.
Album- Live like a Millionaire
Label- Self-released
Genre- indie pop
This charming indie-pop album is well produced and has a wide appeal- in fact, the only real negative is the long running-time (15 tracks…). Singer Eryn Getty has a cute, girl-next-door type of voice. The songs alternate between boring and dull and poppy indie (the picks). Kind of an Apples in Stereo vibe.
Villagers
Artist- Villagers
Album- The Pact (I'll be your Fever) EP
Label- Domino
Genre- folky
This EP from folk-rock group Villagers, aka Irish singer Conor O’Brien, features acoustic re-workings of a few tracks from their debut album Becoming a Jackal (released summer 2010). There’s also unreleased song “Cecilia & her Selfhood” and Bob Dylan cover “Love Minus Zero”. Cute and poppy without being saccharine, these songs are perfect for autumn. The man is also an excellent piano player (#3).
Album- The Pact (I'll be your Fever) EP
Label- Domino
Genre- folky
This EP from folk-rock group Villagers, aka Irish singer Conor O’Brien, features acoustic re-workings of a few tracks from their debut album Becoming a Jackal (released summer 2010). There’s also unreleased song “Cecilia & her Selfhood” and Bob Dylan cover “Love Minus Zero”. Cute and poppy without being saccharine, these songs are perfect for autumn. The man is also an excellent piano player (#3).
PS I Love You
Artist- P.S. I Love You
Album- Meet Me at the Muster Station
Label- Paper Bag
Genre- rock
This rock band has a straight up AWFUL band name but their music is actually not too shabby. (Seriously, why would you want to sound like a shitty rom-com movie?). The duo manages to crank out a full sound, and vocalist/axe-man Paul Saulnier barks like Black Francis and rocks like J. Mascis. “Facelove” starts off like pop-rock, with a boy confessing his feelings for a chick, before the distortion kicks in half-way through. Like a softer Japandroids, these songs are full of heavy guitars but youthful and nostalgic lyrics.
Album- Meet Me at the Muster Station
Label- Paper Bag
Genre- rock
This rock band has a straight up AWFUL band name but their music is actually not too shabby. (Seriously, why would you want to sound like a shitty rom-com movie?). The duo manages to crank out a full sound, and vocalist/axe-man Paul Saulnier barks like Black Francis and rocks like J. Mascis. “Facelove” starts off like pop-rock, with a boy confessing his feelings for a chick, before the distortion kicks in half-way through. Like a softer Japandroids, these songs are full of heavy guitars but youthful and nostalgic lyrics.
Phil Wilson
Artist- Phil Wilson
Album- God Bless Jim Kennedy
Label- Slumberland
Genre- pop-rock
Having never heard of Phil Wilson, here’s a bit of research to pass on: he was the guitarist for 80’s pop group the June Brides and then disappeared for 25 years until now. It’s a good thing too because this album is awesome: opener “Three Days” is packed with energy and layers of instruments. Adorable, British-tinged pop-rock songs. Some tracks (#4) have a definite punky element as well. #6 is outstanding as well.
Album- God Bless Jim Kennedy
Label- Slumberland
Genre- pop-rock
Having never heard of Phil Wilson, here’s a bit of research to pass on: he was the guitarist for 80’s pop group the June Brides and then disappeared for 25 years until now. It’s a good thing too because this album is awesome: opener “Three Days” is packed with energy and layers of instruments. Adorable, British-tinged pop-rock songs. Some tracks (#4) have a definite punky element as well. #6 is outstanding as well.
Paul Avion
Artist-Paul Avion
Album-RU With Me
Label- self-released
Musician Paul Avion puts out his first proper album after kicking around releasing singles for awhile. It sounds like Devandra Barnhart meets ELO. Cute singer-songwriter fare with good instrumentation and a slight flair for well-placed keyboards (#7). “Henry Sage” has nice horn flourishes. This album should appeal to fans of indie pop.
Album-RU With Me
Label- self-released
Musician Paul Avion puts out his first proper album after kicking around releasing singles for awhile. It sounds like Devandra Barnhart meets ELO. Cute singer-songwriter fare with good instrumentation and a slight flair for well-placed keyboards (#7). “Henry Sage” has nice horn flourishes. This album should appeal to fans of indie pop.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Maserati
Artist-Maserati
Album- Pyramid of the Sun
Label- Temporary Residence LTD
Genre- dancey post-rock
Holy f*** this album is great, and it also sounds a LOT like the band Holy Fuck (or an instrumental !!!) as well. This album is a tribute to Jerry Fuchs, an indie scene staple who lent his disco-influenced drumming to Maserati, !!!, and the Juan Maclean. This is prog-rock meet dance-punk, with a bit more synthesizer than their last album Inventions for the New Season. “They’ll Suffer No More from Hunger” and “Ruins” (track 6, 5) is the most “rock” of the bunch, anchored by sludgy drums and guitar feedback.
Album- Pyramid of the Sun
Label- Temporary Residence LTD
Genre- dancey post-rock
Holy f*** this album is great, and it also sounds a LOT like the band Holy Fuck (or an instrumental !!!) as well. This album is a tribute to Jerry Fuchs, an indie scene staple who lent his disco-influenced drumming to Maserati, !!!, and the Juan Maclean. This is prog-rock meet dance-punk, with a bit more synthesizer than their last album Inventions for the New Season. “They’ll Suffer No More from Hunger” and “Ruins” (track 6, 5) is the most “rock” of the bunch, anchored by sludgy drums and guitar feedback.
Bikini
Artist- Bikini
Album- Ripjds EP
Label- Lefse
Genre- chill electronic
This debut EP from a fairly unknown group is really nice, full of chill textured pop music. Labelmates Neon Indian would be a similar comparaison musically. “Acheerlaeder” is a sick tune with altered vocals and a throbbing beat that still manages to have chill-wave appeal while being interesting.
Album- Ripjds EP
Label- Lefse
Genre- chill electronic
This debut EP from a fairly unknown group is really nice, full of chill textured pop music. Labelmates Neon Indian would be a similar comparaison musically. “Acheerlaeder” is a sick tune with altered vocals and a throbbing beat that still manages to have chill-wave appeal while being interesting.
The Last Royals
Artist- The Last Royals
Album- s/t ep
Label- Ooh La La
This new two-piece band sure likes to sing-talk a lot, as evidenced by both tracks in this short EP. “Crystal Vases” starts off innocuously enough with pleasant male singing and upbeat chord strumming before a nice glossy guitar riff at about 1:20. This sounds a lot like Gossip Girl music, like a less-dancey The Virgins. It’s catchy enough.
Album- s/t ep
Label- Ooh La La
This new two-piece band sure likes to sing-talk a lot, as evidenced by both tracks in this short EP. “Crystal Vases” starts off innocuously enough with pleasant male singing and upbeat chord strumming before a nice glossy guitar riff at about 1:20. This sounds a lot like Gossip Girl music, like a less-dancey The Virgins. It’s catchy enough.
The Fresh and Only's
Artist- The Fresh and Only's
Album- Play It Strange
Label- In The Red
Genre- psych surf-punk
The F&O’s third album (in 2 years!) has the band making huge strides artistically (and not in a bad way). The sound’s slightly cleaned up, but it’s still tropical surf garage rock with a heavy dose of reverb. Coming from the psych-garage West Coast scene that produced Ty Segall, Thee Oh Sees and more, this album is wonderful and hopefully will gain the band new recognition.
#1- Waterfall - great track, between the faintest hints of “ooh” in the background, the typical F&O’s jangliness, and the spaghetti-western riff, I’m hooked.
#5- I’m Shook Up - not Tim Cohen’s (formerly of band Black Fiction) greatest vocal performance, but the combination of the steady rhythm section and the 50’s guitar vibe makes this another winner.
#4- Tropical Island Suite - excellent if you’re willing to play a 7 minute track (with a fuzzed-out breakdown half-way through).
#7- Fascinated - undoubtedly tied for my favorite track (besides “Waterfalls”), full of lovely pop distortion, a bit of 90’s sound, and the chorus of “you’re such a pretty girl”
Album- Play It Strange
Label- In The Red
Genre- psych surf-punk
The F&O’s third album (in 2 years!) has the band making huge strides artistically (and not in a bad way). The sound’s slightly cleaned up, but it’s still tropical surf garage rock with a heavy dose of reverb. Coming from the psych-garage West Coast scene that produced Ty Segall, Thee Oh Sees and more, this album is wonderful and hopefully will gain the band new recognition.
#1- Waterfall - great track, between the faintest hints of “ooh” in the background, the typical F&O’s jangliness, and the spaghetti-western riff, I’m hooked.
#5- I’m Shook Up - not Tim Cohen’s (formerly of band Black Fiction) greatest vocal performance, but the combination of the steady rhythm section and the 50’s guitar vibe makes this another winner.
#4- Tropical Island Suite - excellent if you’re willing to play a 7 minute track (with a fuzzed-out breakdown half-way through).
#7- Fascinated - undoubtedly tied for my favorite track (besides “Waterfalls”), full of lovely pop distortion, a bit of 90’s sound, and the chorus of “you’re such a pretty girl”
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Matt and Kim
Artist - Matt and Kim
Album - Sidewalks
Label - Fader
The third album from this “dance-punk” trio doesn’t sound much different from their past releases. Fortunately, their older tracks are infectious and fun, so here’s much of the same! Very danceable. Aside from the same beeping beats and bold vocals, this album seems to have a little more variety in terms of the overall sound – a welcome change after almost every track sounded like a variation of “Daylight” on their latest album.
Basically, if you’ve liked their past stuff, you’ll enjoy this. If you’ve never liked M&K, you probably won’t like this.
The third album from this “dance-punk” trio doesn’t sound much different from their past releases. Fortunately, their older tracks are infectious and fun, so here’s much of the same! Very danceable. Aside from the same beeping beats and bold vocals, this album seems to have a little more variety in terms of the overall sound – a welcome change after almost every track sounded like a variation of “Daylight” on their latest album.
Basically, if you’ve liked their past stuff, you’ll enjoy this. If you’ve never liked M&K, you probably won’t like this.
Swedish House Mafia
Artist - Swedish House Mafia
Album - Until One
Label - Astralwerks
This is one for the clubs. I spent most of my early teenage years perusing Limewire for many of the Tiesto-like artists found on here, like Benassi, Axwell, Sebastian Ingrosso, David Guetta, TV Rock, Steve Angello, and Laidback Luke. In my recent, more musically enlightened years, I’ve perused music blogs for the more progressive artists found on here, such as Justice, Empire of the Sun, MGMT, and Miike Snow, while still retaining a guilty love for the aforementioned DJs. I liked the incorporation of indie hits into very danceable, club-worthy jams. Granted, the pieces used (Coldplay’s “Clocks” and MGMT’s “Kids”) are a little obvious, but whatever, Pharrell’s appearance makes up for it. As a whole the mix (at 24 tracks!) is a nonstop party with beats which manage to morph into different grooves while still maintaining a uniform sound. Yeah, it’s the same beats you’ve heard before, but that doesn’t make any less enjoyable. The only thing I wish I’d seen was a little more original material as opposed to just remixes, but I still give this a thumbs up.
Album - Until One
Label - Astralwerks
This is one for the clubs. I spent most of my early teenage years perusing Limewire for many of the Tiesto-like artists found on here, like Benassi, Axwell, Sebastian Ingrosso, David Guetta, TV Rock, Steve Angello, and Laidback Luke. In my recent, more musically enlightened years, I’ve perused music blogs for the more progressive artists found on here, such as Justice, Empire of the Sun, MGMT, and Miike Snow, while still retaining a guilty love for the aforementioned DJs. I liked the incorporation of indie hits into very danceable, club-worthy jams. Granted, the pieces used (Coldplay’s “Clocks” and MGMT’s “Kids”) are a little obvious, but whatever, Pharrell’s appearance makes up for it. As a whole the mix (at 24 tracks!) is a nonstop party with beats which manage to morph into different grooves while still maintaining a uniform sound. Yeah, it’s the same beats you’ve heard before, but that doesn’t make any less enjoyable. The only thing I wish I’d seen was a little more original material as opposed to just remixes, but I still give this a thumbs up.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Zola Jesus
Artist- Zola Jesus
Album- Valusia EP
Label- Sacred Bones
Genre: Moody
This EP is like the gothic sister of the Twin Shadow album from earlier this fall. Nika Roza Danilova, a.k.a. Zola Jesus, has a stunning operatic voice that conveys emotion quite well. This album definitely sounds like early 4AD material. Zola recently supported Fever Ray on tour, and I’d say this is like Fever Ray meets Cocteau Twins meets industrial music. I look forward to new material.
Album- Valusia EP
Label- Sacred Bones
Genre: Moody
This EP is like the gothic sister of the Twin Shadow album from earlier this fall. Nika Roza Danilova, a.k.a. Zola Jesus, has a stunning operatic voice that conveys emotion quite well. This album definitely sounds like early 4AD material. Zola recently supported Fever Ray on tour, and I’d say this is like Fever Ray meets Cocteau Twins meets industrial music. I look forward to new material.
Young Man
Artist- Young Man
Album- Boy EP
Label- frenchkiss*
Genre- indie folk
Colin Caulfield came to the attention of frenchkiss* Records, home to Passion Pit, the Dodos, and other indie faves, by posting covers of Deerhunter, Ariel pink, and more to his YouTube page. It’s like a indie singer-songwriter success story. Anyway, this EP is a really pleasant listen. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but it has a nice spacey folk sound and Caulfield’s voice reminds me of Panda Bear. “Five” has lovely tropical chord strumming, and “Hands” features some Beta Band-esque percussion/sampling. “Just a Growin’” has a retro vibe that’s slightly psychedelic with layer guitar riffs and an atypical beat. One of the best 30-minutes I’ve listened to this year.
Album- Boy EP
Label- frenchkiss*
Genre- indie folk
Colin Caulfield came to the attention of frenchkiss* Records, home to Passion Pit, the Dodos, and other indie faves, by posting covers of Deerhunter, Ariel pink, and more to his YouTube page. It’s like a indie singer-songwriter success story. Anyway, this EP is a really pleasant listen. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but it has a nice spacey folk sound and Caulfield’s voice reminds me of Panda Bear. “Five” has lovely tropical chord strumming, and “Hands” features some Beta Band-esque percussion/sampling. “Just a Growin’” has a retro vibe that’s slightly psychedelic with layer guitar riffs and an atypical beat. One of the best 30-minutes I’ve listened to this year.
The Demon's Claws
Artist- The Demon's Claws
Album- The Defrosting Of...
Label- In the Red
Genre- Garage rock
This is like the psychedelic companion to the new outcrop of garage-punk-rock bands like Ty Segall and Jay Reatard. Demon’s Claws sounds most like Black Lips in my opinion. “Fed From Her Hand” is four minutes of psychedelic surfiness at its finest. “At the Disco” clocks in at under two minutes with maybe about 4 lines of lyrics, but the energy is so great it doesn’t matter. Shame about all the FCC obscenities on this album. These little songs about sex, drugs, getting fucked up with friends are skuzzy to the core and perfect for not giving shits about school or the future.
Album- The Defrosting Of...
Label- In the Red
Genre- Garage rock
This is like the psychedelic companion to the new outcrop of garage-punk-rock bands like Ty Segall and Jay Reatard. Demon’s Claws sounds most like Black Lips in my opinion. “Fed From Her Hand” is four minutes of psychedelic surfiness at its finest. “At the Disco” clocks in at under two minutes with maybe about 4 lines of lyrics, but the energy is so great it doesn’t matter. Shame about all the FCC obscenities on this album. These little songs about sex, drugs, getting fucked up with friends are skuzzy to the core and perfect for not giving shits about school or the future.
Cheap Time
Artist- Cheap Time
Album- Fantastic Explanations (and Similar Situations)
Label- In the Red
Genre- Garage rock
Wholeheartedly awesome garage rock with a dash of punk. The Tennessee trio’s sound is anchored by singer Jeff Novak’s snotty vocals- the energy of Jay Reatard with the slacker-ness of Wavves. Apparently the band was so annoying that the first recording engineer made them leave the studio at gunpoint. Sloppy yet charming, this album is a must-play for fans of Reatard, Ty Segall, Mark Sultan and short and sweet bratty numbers.
Album- Fantastic Explanations (and Similar Situations)
Label- In the Red
Genre- Garage rock
Wholeheartedly awesome garage rock with a dash of punk. The Tennessee trio’s sound is anchored by singer Jeff Novak’s snotty vocals- the energy of Jay Reatard with the slacker-ness of Wavves. Apparently the band was so annoying that the first recording engineer made them leave the studio at gunpoint. Sloppy yet charming, this album is a must-play for fans of Reatard, Ty Segall, Mark Sultan and short and sweet bratty numbers.
Fistful of Mercy
Artist- Fistful of Mercy
Album- As I Call You Down
Label- HOT
Genre- Folk
This band sure has a good pop pedigree: Ben Harper (self-explanatory), Dhani Harrison (George Harrison’s son, as in the fucking Beatles), and Joseph Arthur (discovered by Peter Gabriel). It’s mostly acoustic, fairly psychedelic, and definitely Beatles-influenced (#1). “Things Go Round” has a nice jaunty keyboard as well. Overall very folky, well-produced album.
Album- As I Call You Down
Label- HOT
Genre- Folk
This band sure has a good pop pedigree: Ben Harper (self-explanatory), Dhani Harrison (George Harrison’s son, as in the fucking Beatles), and Joseph Arthur (discovered by Peter Gabriel). It’s mostly acoustic, fairly psychedelic, and definitely Beatles-influenced (#1). “Things Go Round” has a nice jaunty keyboard as well. Overall very folky, well-produced album.
Kendl Winter
Artist- Kendl Winter
Album- Applecore
Label- K Records
Genre- country folk
Kendl Winter’s first release for K Records (the Olympia, WA based label for Built to Spill. Mirah, Jeremy Jay) is undeniably a country-tinged bluegrass fest. This album is pretty typical, “come back ex-boyfriend who left me” fare. I wouldn’t call it country in the negative sense we all think of for country music, but this sure is folky and down to earth.
Album- Applecore
Label- K Records
Genre- country folk
Kendl Winter’s first release for K Records (the Olympia, WA based label for Built to Spill. Mirah, Jeremy Jay) is undeniably a country-tinged bluegrass fest. This album is pretty typical, “come back ex-boyfriend who left me” fare. I wouldn’t call it country in the negative sense we all think of for country music, but this sure is folky and down to earth.
Kelley Stoltz
Artist- Kelly Stolz
Album- To Dreamers
Label- Sub Pop
Genre- vintage-sounding indie
Sub Pop continues their string of great albums this year with their last release of 2010- songwriter Kelley Stoltz’ newest. This CD is heavily influenced by 60’s pop like The Kinks, the Beatles or Harry Nilson. Sometimes the lyrics are a little too elementary- but hey, the Beatles wrote shitty lyrics sometimes too (“Love Me Do” = awful). “Keeping the Flame” is a stunning track full of surf influence and a trippy keyboard riff. “Baby I’ve Got News For You” is a cover of a psychedelic 60’s track and even features the original writer, Pete Miller, on the track playing the same guitar used in the original recording. “Little Girl” has some hella-nice echoed guitar too and is one of the punkier tracks. “Love Let Me In Again” has cute “sha-la-la-las”.
Album- To Dreamers
Label- Sub Pop
Genre- vintage-sounding indie
Sub Pop continues their string of great albums this year with their last release of 2010- songwriter Kelley Stoltz’ newest. This CD is heavily influenced by 60’s pop like The Kinks, the Beatles or Harry Nilson. Sometimes the lyrics are a little too elementary- but hey, the Beatles wrote shitty lyrics sometimes too (“Love Me Do” = awful). “Keeping the Flame” is a stunning track full of surf influence and a trippy keyboard riff. “Baby I’ve Got News For You” is a cover of a psychedelic 60’s track and even features the original writer, Pete Miller, on the track playing the same guitar used in the original recording. “Little Girl” has some hella-nice echoed guitar too and is one of the punkier tracks. “Love Let Me In Again” has cute “sha-la-la-las”.
The Gay Blades
Artist- The Gay Blades
Album- Savages
Label- Triple Crown
The Gay Blades’ sophomore album (terrible band name, by the way) finds the duo abandoning their more raw sound in favor of something a little too polished. The album was produced by whoever does the Hold Steady albums, which is lame. Singer James DeanWells (ha.) tries too hard to be theatrical (the obnoxious piano crashes invite Freddie Mercury comparisons, except worse). Back when the Gay Blades were lo-fi, their trashiness sounded awesome and energetic. Now, with this cleaned-up more mainstream sound, it just sounds like emo-tinged theatrical Scissor Sisters.
Album- Savages
Label- Triple Crown
The Gay Blades’ sophomore album (terrible band name, by the way) finds the duo abandoning their more raw sound in favor of something a little too polished. The album was produced by whoever does the Hold Steady albums, which is lame. Singer James DeanWells (ha.) tries too hard to be theatrical (the obnoxious piano crashes invite Freddie Mercury comparisons, except worse). Back when the Gay Blades were lo-fi, their trashiness sounded awesome and energetic. Now, with this cleaned-up more mainstream sound, it just sounds like emo-tinged theatrical Scissor Sisters.
Cloud Nothings
Artist- Cloud Nothings
Album- Turning On
Label- Carpark
Genre- Lo-fi rock
Pure fuzzed-out pop perfection. The band is the brainchild of 18-year old Dylan Baldi, who recorded every instrument and vocal himself. If Wavves hadn’t gone pop after their album, they surely would’ve made this next (Cloud Nothings toured with them this summer). Garage rock is officially back. Listen if you like: Wavves, Beach Fossils, good music. This is a collection of a few EPs and singles, Cloud Nothings' proper full-length should be released in January
Album- Turning On
Label- Carpark
Genre- Lo-fi rock
Pure fuzzed-out pop perfection. The band is the brainchild of 18-year old Dylan Baldi, who recorded every instrument and vocal himself. If Wavves hadn’t gone pop after their album, they surely would’ve made this next (Cloud Nothings toured with them this summer). Garage rock is officially back. Listen if you like: Wavves, Beach Fossils, good music. This is a collection of a few EPs and singles, Cloud Nothings' proper full-length should be released in January
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Concert Review - Phantogram 10/26/10
On a fairly drizzly and otherwise uneventful day, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Phantogram concert. I’d read some reviews saying they were excellent, others saying they were underwhelming. Either way, I’ve been a fan of the band since I first heard Eyelid Movies, which came out in late 2009. I’d always thought of Phantogram’s music as hip-hop inspired, trippy pop, which is coincidentally great for long road trips in the rain.
I arrived with my friends around 9 PM, an hour after Josiah Wolf, the drummer of WHY? was scheduled to come on. Inside Mr. Smalls were only about 40 people. Josiah Wolf and his guitar accompaniment (who also provided vocals) supplied a solid-sounding shoegaze-y performance: very appropriate for preceding the melancholy Phantogram.
The segue between performances consisted of beat-driven music which got me even more pumped up for the band I came to see. The rest of the audience seemed to feel as excited as I did; again I felt nervous – why are there so few people here? Maybe they truly aren’t that great live.
That prediction could not have been more wrong. Josh Carter, sporting a unobtrusive red shirt and jeans, and Sarah Barthel, in a simple but sexy black outfit complementing her sleek black bob, quickly set up the stage and dove right into “As Far As I Can See.” I positively melted while the misty notes of the sultry and touching melody drifted through the venue. Barthel’s double-tracking was executed flawlessly, but I wasn’t quite prepared for such an intense, fleshed out sound delivered by Carter’s guitar playing and the drummer the duo added to the set. On the album, the songs pack energy and feeling, but this performance took their music to a new level. Having duly impressed the audience with their opening song, Phantogram continued on with “Running From The Cops.” This brings me to their projected mini movies – a creepy but interesting film depicting a bleeding couple involved in a car chase with some grotesque aliens played during their second song. During following tracks, the projections seemed to alternate between geometric patterns and following a pale young woman in a white dress wandering around a forest. The dreamy projections definitely accompanied the music quite well. Phantogram played the rest of their album, driving the audience to groove with the beat-heavy “Bloody Palms” and “Futuristic Casket.” “Let Me Go,” ordinarily a pretty and sad ballad, culminated in an explosion of sound at the end, an interesting take on the track. The slower tracks, “Mouthful of Diamonds” and “All Dried Up,” were wonderfully performed. I couldn’t help but admire Barthel’s outstanding stage presence; although she was stationed behind the drum machine and providing breathy vocals, her frequent head-banging was invigorating (especially considering this was the band’s third-to-last show on their tour). Her vocals went above and beyond my expectations, as “Turn It Off” she sang close to an octave higher than she did on the album!! “You Are The Ocean” was powerful and heartrending as well.
In the middle of their set, the duo (who barely spoke onstage) announced they were about to play a new track. My friends and I agreed that it sounded great. I would say that it seemed to have slightly less of a structure than their older material, but the new sounds all mixed together indicated the band is moving in a great direction, in which I am highly interested!
Phantogram closed their sadly short set with “When I’m Small,” having only gained energy during their performance. The duo quickly left and came back for their encore of “All Dried Up,” accompanied by a projection of spastically flying through stars a la Windows 95 screensaver 2.0 (it was so, so great).
I only could have seen improvement in two aspects. I wish they had included distortion for Carter’s vocals, which are admittedly creepy but, in my opinion, make Phantogram’s sound unique and thought provoking. Additionally, the trade-off of the rich, guitar-heavy sound for the more intricate parts of each track was mostly welcomed, but I did miss the tiny details of each song I know so well.
As I left, I realized that overall it was truly one of the best shows I’ve ever seen. Few other bands deliver such a true and simultaneously exploratory rendition of their music, while still keeping the audience in the zone and managing to entertain (especially for a band which relies heavily on electronic components!). Needless to say, I bought a T-shirt.
- Cassia Priebe
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Avey Tare
Artist: Avey Tare
Album: Down There
Label: Paw Tracks
The first official solo LP from Animal Collective’s Avey Tare sounds like, well, pretty much how you’d expect the solo effort of an Animal Collective member to sound. It’s interesting and full of weirdly dark sounds, off-kilter beats, and Tare’s echoing vocals are an instrument more than a vehicle for conveying words. Still, it sounds a little empty without the other members; you’ll find fewer memorable hooks and more hazy meandering here. “3 Umbrellas” feels suspiciously like a B-side from the Merriwether recording sessions, notably upbeat and carried by a driving toy piano sound. Check out catchy “Heather in the Hospital” and the cool grooving beats in “Lucky 1.”
Sufjan Stevens
Artist: Sufjan Stevens
Album: The Age of Adz
Label: Asthmatic Kitty
Drum machines. Synthesizer bleeps. Electro-noise, spacey echoed vocals. A banjo deficiency, a sprinkling of obscenities. And what the— is that Auto-Tune? What is this, and where's the new Sufjan Stevens album we've been expecting?
Fear not, dear listener. The Age of Adz, Stevens' first proper LP in five years, is probably going to be a bit confusing, initially. After all, this is from the man who once pledged to record an album dedicated to each of the 50 States (but only managed Michigan in 2003 and Illinois in 2005) and in 2007 created a "symphonic and cinematic exploration of New York City's infamous Brooklyn-Queens Expressway." Anything approaching straightforward would have been, let's admit, highly disappointing.
So instead of sticking with what's already worked and cranking out more austere folk tunes about the Transfiguration of Christ or orchestral ruminations on the Blackhawk War, Stevens offers up an album that manages to be both exploratory and familiar, mysterious while comprehensible and, most importantly, intensely enjoyable.
The Age of Adz sometimes feels like you’re being carried to a different country, armed with a Lonely Planet guidebook and a familiar pair of comfy shoes. Already comfortable with the local dialect - the way Stevens' vocal melodies rise at the end of his phrases, the unmistakable inflections of his vulnerable voice, the personal confessions in his lyrics - we're set free to revel in the new electronic sonic landscapes he creates.
It's tempting to wonder at first if Stevens merely aspired to follow the fashionable trends in contemporary indie/alternative music. Suddenly the synthesizer is back en vogue; everyone seems to be going electronic these days. His use of Auto-Tune in "Impossible Soul," albeit brief, seems like an approving nod to an irritating trend in popular mainstream music. Is one of the pioneers of the folk and banjo revivals in indie pop over the past decade too spent to do anything but follow popular fads like so many fleeting indie critic darlings? (See: Matthew Dear, Neon Indian, Holy Fuck, Greatest Hits.)
In short, no. The lush arrangements of Illinois were bewildering at first listen, too, losing us in their Midwestern-tinged sonic wonderland, but a second or third listen through revealed their fragile, sympathetic documentation of historic figures and personal confessions. The Age of Adz is really more similar to Stevens' past work than it is different; it simply requires a little bit of investment on the part of the listener.
Yes, the prodigious use of echo delay on his vocals and electro glitch-beat synth sounds might be jarring at first. The sci-fi movie sound effects that introduce "Too Much," for example, or the random staccatos of noise punctuating the sprawling opus "Impossible Soul" are a little challenging.
But these are good things. The more you play the album, the more it grows on you, and the revelation sinks in that Stevens is doing what he's always done - taking instruments or noises we think we've heard before, turning them upside down, and making them his own. What he's done for the banjo and various woodwinds on previous albums he's simply done again, just with very different instruments.
The overwhelming sense is that of Stevens' evolution as a musician, building upon his talents and flexing his creative muscles; hearing him take risks with new sounds, and succeed, is supremely gratifying and enjoyable to listen to. One of his greatest strengths has always been his ability to stay grounded even while engineering a cacophony of sound - whether it's the electronic noise here, or the self-performed orchestras from previous efforts. And that's exactly what he maintains; at the core of every song, his signature, masterful songwriting remains intact.
The Age of Adz isn't full of the quiet self-portrait acoustic ballads prevalent in many fan favorites. There's no bedroom performance atmosphere of "For the Widows in Paradise…" or "Holland" present here. But "Futile Devices" and "Now That I'm Older" are great examples of that classic intimate balladry in the new Sufjan Stevens era. "I Walked" is probably the best example of a quintessential Stevens track given new instrumentation. Like so many others on Adz, he muses on a failed or difficult relationship, critically evaluating his own role - "I couldn't bear that it's me / It's my fault" – while layers of percussive static and rolling backing vocals lead to a dramatic conclusion. His penchant for coupling humbled words with ornate instrumentation has never been stronger, and this contrast is what continues to make his work so compelling.
Ultimately, Stevens is doing exactly what we love him for, and that is making wildly inventive music of the kind no one else has thought to attempt. Where earlier works revealed his influences, the flavor of Vince Guaraldi's piano in Michigan's "Flint," for example, The Age of Adz genuinely sounds like Stevens has matured to the point where he's found all the inspiration he needs in himself. The result is a sprawling effort that somehow manages more creativity, more grandeur, and more originality than before.
Paleo
Artist: Paleo
Album: A View of the Sky
Label: Partisan
A really excellent album full of careful and tender, but still relaxed sound. This makes me wish it were a cool Tuesday night in November, and I were in a bar with wooden walls, with a craft brew in hand and no worries on my mind – Paleo would definitely be playing in this imaginary pub. Anyway, this sounds like some dudes from Appalachia paired up with a couple dudes from New York, hence the occasional gentle synth which accents the simple and honest melodies. Mostly it’s just rustic-but-not-too-rustic-sounding music which is neither happy nor sad, but still makes you feel good. Highly recommend.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
The Black
Artist- The Black
Album- Sun in the Day Moon at Night
Label- MOON Records
Genre- folk rock
Totally retro album that sounds straight out of 1966! Elements of the Kinks or Bob Dylan all around. I like it. It sounds a LOT like the band Jaill or Deertick (the press sticker didn’t lie for once!!). The only slight complaint I have with this folk-rock (emphasis on the rock part, not folk) is the singer can get vaguely whiny after listening for an hour, but in single song doses this sounds great. Very rambling old-timey feel (as in, harmonica is sometimes involved). Heartfelt too.
Album- Sun in the Day Moon at Night
Label- MOON Records
Genre- folk rock
Totally retro album that sounds straight out of 1966! Elements of the Kinks or Bob Dylan all around. I like it. It sounds a LOT like the band Jaill or Deertick (the press sticker didn’t lie for once!!). The only slight complaint I have with this folk-rock (emphasis on the rock part, not folk) is the singer can get vaguely whiny after listening for an hour, but in single song doses this sounds great. Very rambling old-timey feel (as in, harmonica is sometimes involved). Heartfelt too.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Gospel Claws
Artist- Gospel Claws
Album- C-L-A-W-S
Label- Common Wall
Genre- indie rock
I’ve been a fan of Gospel Claws since I randomly reviewed their self-titled EP last year and the full-length does not disappoint. I wanna convert to whatever gospel cult they’re running. This indie-rock album sounds retro with elements of soul and surf music. Kind of like a less-pretentious Surfer Blood. The singer sounds like he’s related to Hamilton Leithauser of the Walkmen or the full-throated sound of the singer from Cold War Kids though ostensibly it’s less nasally or whiny. Give this band a chance!
Album- C-L-A-W-S
Label- Common Wall
Genre- indie rock
I’ve been a fan of Gospel Claws since I randomly reviewed their self-titled EP last year and the full-length does not disappoint. I wanna convert to whatever gospel cult they’re running. This indie-rock album sounds retro with elements of soul and surf music. Kind of like a less-pretentious Surfer Blood. The singer sounds like he’s related to Hamilton Leithauser of the Walkmen or the full-throated sound of the singer from Cold War Kids though ostensibly it’s less nasally or whiny. Give this band a chance!
Tim Chad and Sherry
Artist- Tim Chad and Sherry
Album- Baby We Can Work it Out
Label- self released
Genre- indie rock
This funky album comes from members of the Silver Jews and Lambchop. It’s pretty groovy along the lines of Midnite Vultures-era Beck or Ween. Psychadelic and spacey (#4) as well. Like the sticker says, fans of Flaming Lips, psychedelic-era MGMT, or Silver Jews will like this. None of the tracks labeled “Live at Lake Fever” are actually live tracks BTW. Very nice groovy album, give it a try.
Album- Baby We Can Work it Out
Label- self released
Genre- indie rock
This funky album comes from members of the Silver Jews and Lambchop. It’s pretty groovy along the lines of Midnite Vultures-era Beck or Ween. Psychadelic and spacey (#4) as well. Like the sticker says, fans of Flaming Lips, psychedelic-era MGMT, or Silver Jews will like this. None of the tracks labeled “Live at Lake Fever” are actually live tracks BTW. Very nice groovy album, give it a try.
Roots Manuva meets Wrongtom
Artist- Roots Manuva meets Wrongtom
Album- Duppy Writer
Label- Big Dada
Genre- hip-hop
Roots Manuva is a British rapper who is actually pretty huge back in his native UK (nominated for album of the year in their version of the Grammys); Wrongtom is the producer for this CD. This album is very listenable and summery with a strong Caribbean influence- Manuva’s parents were from Jamaica. Elements of grime and dubstep can be heard throughout as well. Apparently this is all just remixed and re-worked versions of previous songs. Really cool chill album.
Album- Duppy Writer
Label- Big Dada
Genre- hip-hop
Roots Manuva is a British rapper who is actually pretty huge back in his native UK (nominated for album of the year in their version of the Grammys); Wrongtom is the producer for this CD. This album is very listenable and summery with a strong Caribbean influence- Manuva’s parents were from Jamaica. Elements of grime and dubstep can be heard throughout as well. Apparently this is all just remixed and re-worked versions of previous songs. Really cool chill album.
Tom Zè
Artist- Tom Zè
Album- Estudando a Bossa: Nordeste Plaza
Label- Luaka Bop!
Genre- tropicalia
Brazilian tropicalia from one of the genre’s originators in the 1960’s. Each song is “inspired” by classic bossa nova tracks, as indicated by the back cover. Track “Outra Insensatz, Poe!” features vocal accompaniment in English from David Byrne of the Talking Heads, whose label released this album. I don’t understand Portuguese, but this is still a beautiful melodic album.
Album- Estudando a Bossa: Nordeste Plaza
Label- Luaka Bop!
Genre- tropicalia
Brazilian tropicalia from one of the genre’s originators in the 1960’s. Each song is “inspired” by classic bossa nova tracks, as indicated by the back cover. Track “Outra Insensatz, Poe!” features vocal accompaniment in English from David Byrne of the Talking Heads, whose label released this album. I don’t understand Portuguese, but this is still a beautiful melodic album.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Tired Pony
Artist- Tired Pony
Album- The Place We Ran From
Label- Fiction/Polydor
This album is fantastic. Lead by Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody, the band wanted to make a country album that sounds more like indy-folk. The first song opens in such a bizarre way that my high expectations for the album immediately lowered. However, the instrumentals picked up after the vocals had been repeating for some time and the song really turned around. And from there on, I was really impressed just after the first song. The buildup in the second song, "Get on the road", paired with the orgasmic hominizations, make for a fantastic track. The album does slow down near the end, and, "The Good Book" is sung by someone other than Lightbody, which is unexpected and slightly disappointing, and the last track ends in a distorted breakdown, which wasn’t what I was expecting. HOWEVER, the first half of the album is just wowzers and makes up for the mediocre songs that follow.
Album- The Place We Ran From
Label- Fiction/Polydor
This album is fantastic. Lead by Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody, the band wanted to make a country album that sounds more like indy-folk. The first song opens in such a bizarre way that my high expectations for the album immediately lowered. However, the instrumentals picked up after the vocals had been repeating for some time and the song really turned around. And from there on, I was really impressed just after the first song. The buildup in the second song, "Get on the road", paired with the orgasmic hominizations, make for a fantastic track. The album does slow down near the end, and, "The Good Book" is sung by someone other than Lightbody, which is unexpected and slightly disappointing, and the last track ends in a distorted breakdown, which wasn’t what I was expecting. HOWEVER, the first half of the album is just wowzers and makes up for the mediocre songs that follow.
The Red River
Artist- The Red River
Album- Little Songs about the Big Picture
Label- Brave
Genre- indie rock
Bandleader Bill Roberts described this album as, “a memento of my time
spent in Long Beach, which also happens to be the exact duration of my
entire life.” Appropriately there’s a vein of cheerful, laid back
nostalgia running through most of these songs. There’s also snapping,
whistling, some pretty great horn parts, strings, and a little bit of
synth thrown in for good measure. Although nothing groundbreaking, it’s
an album of solid, easy to listen to indie pop.
Album- Little Songs about the Big Picture
Label- Brave
Genre- indie rock
Bandleader Bill Roberts described this album as, “a memento of my time
spent in Long Beach, which also happens to be the exact duration of my
entire life.” Appropriately there’s a vein of cheerful, laid back
nostalgia running through most of these songs. There’s also snapping,
whistling, some pretty great horn parts, strings, and a little bit of
synth thrown in for good measure. Although nothing groundbreaking, it’s
an album of solid, easy to listen to indie pop.
The Wildbirds
Artist- The Wildbirds
Album- Sunshine Blues
Label- Self-released
The Wildbirds (not to be confused with Wildbirds & Peacedrums – that’s
something completely different) are a four piece rock band from Milwaukee
whose music lives on the border between ‘catchy’ and ‘decent’. There are
some really great blues elements to this group but you have to get over
the incredibly whiney singing to even consider them. If you put Jet, The
Strokes, and The Band in a blender and then changed the vocals so they had
the attitude of a tired child denied ice cream, you’d get something like
this.
Album- Sunshine Blues
Label- Self-released
The Wildbirds (not to be confused with Wildbirds & Peacedrums – that’s
something completely different) are a four piece rock band from Milwaukee
whose music lives on the border between ‘catchy’ and ‘decent’. There are
some really great blues elements to this group but you have to get over
the incredibly whiney singing to even consider them. If you put Jet, The
Strokes, and The Band in a blender and then changed the vocals so they had
the attitude of a tired child denied ice cream, you’d get something like
this.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Flying Lotus
Artist- Flying Lotus
Album- Pattern + Grid World EP
Label- Warp
Genre- rpm
Patterns + grid World is an enjoyable departure from Ellison's Cosmogramma, which came out earlier this year. His new EP is way more grounded than Cosmogramma, which for me failed in its annoying voids of ambient textures and swirls. Instead, P+G W cuts to the point musically, employing intertwining sawtooth synth lines, 808 drum chops and blips, and the usual crazy unquantized FlyLo space sounds.
Album- Pattern + Grid World EP
Label- Warp
Genre- rpm
Patterns + grid World is an enjoyable departure from Ellison's Cosmogramma, which came out earlier this year. His new EP is way more grounded than Cosmogramma, which for me failed in its annoying voids of ambient textures and swirls. Instead, P+G W cuts to the point musically, employing intertwining sawtooth synth lines, 808 drum chops and blips, and the usual crazy unquantized FlyLo space sounds.
El Guincho
Artist- El Guincho
Album - Pop Negro
Label- Young Turks
Genre- electronic, tropicalia
El Guincho, the alias of Pablo Diaz-Reixa, is a fusion of exotic tropicalia influenced samples and dance-music beats. “Bombay” is anchored by cheerful steel drums and sampled drums, and “(Chica-Oh) Drums” is pure sunshine-pop with cluttered samples that’s danceable yet trancey. It’s Balaeric, it’s Caribbean, it has hints of Animal Collective- it’s a lot to process but it’s all mixed together well.
I’m not sure how many listens I could give this album (it sounds a little 90’s after awhile), but it’s fun and dance-y with world music influences. It’s definitely not as good as 2008’s amazing Alegranza, but by any means this is not a bad album (it’s pretty good). Any of these songs could brighten may day.
Album - Pop Negro
Label- Young Turks
Genre- electronic, tropicalia
El Guincho, the alias of Pablo Diaz-Reixa, is a fusion of exotic tropicalia influenced samples and dance-music beats. “Bombay” is anchored by cheerful steel drums and sampled drums, and “(Chica-Oh) Drums” is pure sunshine-pop with cluttered samples that’s danceable yet trancey. It’s Balaeric, it’s Caribbean, it has hints of Animal Collective- it’s a lot to process but it’s all mixed together well.
I’m not sure how many listens I could give this album (it sounds a little 90’s after awhile), but it’s fun and dance-y with world music influences. It’s definitely not as good as 2008’s amazing Alegranza, but by any means this is not a bad album (it’s pretty good). Any of these songs could brighten may day.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Eyes Around
Artist- Eyes Around
Album- Alpha EP
Label- ?
Eyes Around’s EP, with the same title, is essentially generic alternative rock that could have clocked radio time if it were released five years ago, but is late in its release. That doesn’t mean, however, that the music is not good. The label recommends all tracks one, two, and three, which is humorously narcissistic, but they may have a point. Track one delivers with an effectively catchy chorus. The second song dabbles in ambient rock. The third doesn’t deliver like the first two, but doesn’t totally suck. With their music focused on the vocalist’s thrashy style singing, and having the guitars’ power chords as a base, Eyes Around succeeds in making an alt. rock album, that is a pretty easy listen.
Album- Alpha EP
Label- ?
Eyes Around’s EP, with the same title, is essentially generic alternative rock that could have clocked radio time if it were released five years ago, but is late in its release. That doesn’t mean, however, that the music is not good. The label recommends all tracks one, two, and three, which is humorously narcissistic, but they may have a point. Track one delivers with an effectively catchy chorus. The second song dabbles in ambient rock. The third doesn’t deliver like the first two, but doesn’t totally suck. With their music focused on the vocalist’s thrashy style singing, and having the guitars’ power chords as a base, Eyes Around succeeds in making an alt. rock album, that is a pretty easy listen.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Deerhunter
Artist- Deerhunter
Album- Halcyon Digest
Label- 4AD
Genre- rock, noise, awesome
Halcyon Digest can be best described as ambient noise rock. On some tracks such as “He Would Have Laughed” and “Revival”, you will find influences from 70s disco and funk. The reverb really adds a lot, giving songs like “Basement Scene” a more psychedelic rock sound. If you like MGMT and/or Animal Collective, you will likely enjoy this record. On “Coronado”, they make lo-fi cool again. It is tough to describe this album instrumentally because there is so much going on, but I’d say that you should just not try to pick this one apart and enjoy it as much as I did. It’s pretty great!
Album- Halcyon Digest
Label- 4AD
Genre- rock, noise, awesome
Halcyon Digest can be best described as ambient noise rock. On some tracks such as “He Would Have Laughed” and “Revival”, you will find influences from 70s disco and funk. The reverb really adds a lot, giving songs like “Basement Scene” a more psychedelic rock sound. If you like MGMT and/or Animal Collective, you will likely enjoy this record. On “Coronado”, they make lo-fi cool again. It is tough to describe this album instrumentally because there is so much going on, but I’d say that you should just not try to pick this one apart and enjoy it as much as I did. It’s pretty great!
The Migrant
Artist- The Migrant
Album- Travels in Lowland
Label- Self-Released
Genre- Folk rock
The Migrant is a mellow folk rock musician from Denmark. You would think that this would cause his music to sound somewhat exotic and awesome, adding new elements to the average folk rock but mostly, he does not. The songs are slow and beautiful but just not incredible or heart-breaking in any way. “Nothing But Clues” has a lot of energy and the violin makes it more special. Vocally, he reminds me of City and Colour (Dallas Green of Alexisonfire’s solo work).
Album- Travels in Lowland
Label- Self-Released
Genre- Folk rock
The Migrant is a mellow folk rock musician from Denmark. You would think that this would cause his music to sound somewhat exotic and awesome, adding new elements to the average folk rock but mostly, he does not. The songs are slow and beautiful but just not incredible or heart-breaking in any way. “Nothing But Clues” has a lot of energy and the violin makes it more special. Vocally, he reminds me of City and Colour (Dallas Green of Alexisonfire’s solo work).
Tim Kasher
Artist- Tim Kasher
Album- The Game of Monogamy
Label- Saddle Creek
Genre- Indieeee
Tim Kasher’s solo effort is fine-tuned indie rock, infused with a bit of pop, chamber, ska punk, and even funk. It’s interesting to listen as he strays away from the genre he’s been playing for the past two decades with his bands Cursive and The Good Life. “I’m Afraid I’m Gonna Die Here” and “Cold Love” are upbeat and fun, instrumentally. Lyrically, the entire album is moody and self-reflective but the energetic percussion and brass keep it from killing the buzz. There are a few slower, mellower tracks that are still enjoyable.
Album- The Game of Monogamy
Label- Saddle Creek
Genre- Indieeee
Tim Kasher’s solo effort is fine-tuned indie rock, infused with a bit of pop, chamber, ska punk, and even funk. It’s interesting to listen as he strays away from the genre he’s been playing for the past two decades with his bands Cursive and The Good Life. “I’m Afraid I’m Gonna Die Here” and “Cold Love” are upbeat and fun, instrumentally. Lyrically, the entire album is moody and self-reflective but the energetic percussion and brass keep it from killing the buzz. There are a few slower, mellower tracks that are still enjoyable.
Adam Haworth Stephens
Artist- Adam Haworth Stephens
Album- We Live on Cliffs
Label- Saddle Creek
Genre- Folk rock
Adam Haworth Stephens of Two Gallants takes a moment to refine his folk rock sound. The record reminds me of Nik Freitas’s solo work (who was also featured in Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band). However, it is a little softer. An organ and an accordion are heavily featured, giving his songs a fun sound. The record starts off with a bang and tapers off slowly into a lighter, beach pop feel like on “Angelina”. For the most part, you might hear these soothing songs in a coffee shop. Still, it is a pretty good album!
Album- We Live on Cliffs
Label- Saddle Creek
Genre- Folk rock
Adam Haworth Stephens of Two Gallants takes a moment to refine his folk rock sound. The record reminds me of Nik Freitas’s solo work (who was also featured in Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band). However, it is a little softer. An organ and an accordion are heavily featured, giving his songs a fun sound. The record starts off with a bang and tapers off slowly into a lighter, beach pop feel like on “Angelina”. For the most part, you might hear these soothing songs in a coffee shop. Still, it is a pretty good album!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Concert Review - Ra Ra Riot - 10/3/10
At 9 pm on Sunday night, I found myself and my roommate Gabi running along 18th street in Southside toward East Carson. Literally running. The night wet and cold, we were afraid of missing any more of the show than we presumably already had, granted that the show was scheduled to have started at 7. Neither of us accomplished joggers, we arrived panting at Diesel. We stepped into the sexy venue, seeming a bit ill-matched to the music we came to hear, and breathed twin sighs of relief: the openers were still playing! We hadn’t missed the show we came to see -- Ra Ra Riot.
The room was full of non-hardcore hipsters - a lot of plaid, messenger caps here and there, an abundance of tight jeans. No one seemed on edge. A good vibe reigned in the room lit with color-changing glowing columns. We all watched the band set up - plugging in a violin, bringing out keyboards and drums. I had heard that the members of Ra Ra Riot were notably attractive, and I was anxious to make my own judgment.
Finally the lights went down, and all applauded in anticipation. The band came out - four men and two women. I must admit, the band members are indeed attractive, with the exception of the drummer. (Sorry, bro, you were in the back and all I could see was your creepy mustache.) The two ladies, dark Alexandra Lawn on a fantastic electric cello and blonde Rebecca Zeller on a more classic-looking violin (which was nonetheless plugged in to an amp), both looked fabulous.
RRR opened with Shadowcasting, one of the mid-level tracks off their latest album, The Orchard, which dropped in August of this year. On the album, the song isn’t one of the most memorable, but lead singer Wes Miles’ exuberance and airy vocals brought it to a new realm of appreciation for me. The same can be said for the rest of the songs which followed - the band played selections from both The Orchard and the Rhumb Line, their first album, which is commonly thought to be better than their latest release. Boy, the ever-catchy baroque-pop
track, was especially great to hear live. Each Year and Oh, La from The Rhumb Line instilled nostalgia and were truly terrific. Can You Tell was, as expected, heartfelt and wonderful to sing along to, if you’re a corny fan like me. Lawn’s performance on You and I Know was breathtaking and it showed - the audience and band seemed to swell as she hit the solemn notes of the bittersweet ballad.
track, was especially great to hear live. Each Year and Oh, La from The Rhumb Line instilled nostalgia and were truly terrific. Can You Tell was, as expected, heartfelt and wonderful to sing along to, if you’re a corny fan like me. Lawn’s performance on You and I Know was breathtaking and it showed - the audience and band seemed to swell as she hit the solemn notes of the bittersweet ballad.
The band overall was exciting and just plain fun to watch; the bassist Mathieu Santos provided backup vocals in addition to looking extremely cute in his glasses. I was impressed by guitarist Milo Bonacci’s skills (mostly because he looks about 17). Lawn especially was interesting to watch, as she would sing along even when not on a mic. Between songs, Miles noted the dichotomy between Diesel’s club-like appearance and his expectations, but still carried on with full energy as before. With Ghosts Under Rocks and Dying Is Fine as their encore, Ra Ra Riot did not fail to impress. This show definitely bumped RRR up in my queue of “favorite bands when asked by those who probably won’t even know who they are.” This is apparently RRR’s fourth show in Pittsburgh in three years... I’ll be thrilled if they decide to come back again soon!
- Cassia Priebe
Monday, October 4, 2010
Concert review: !!! at Via Festival 10/3
!!! (as part of Via Festival)
Lawrenceville Moose; Oct 3
This concert was seriously excellent beyond belief. We drove crazily over here from a different concert and managed to get inside after a ticket snafu in time to hear Dominique Young Unique, a young female rapper from Florida who was wearing an epic spandex bodysuit. Her spitfire performance was a cross between Nicki Minaj and Rye Rye. Needless to say I want to be her.
It took !!! seriously like 30 minutes to do soundcheck, but it ended up being worth it. Singer/frontman Nic Offer brought so much (sometimes-terrifying) energy. If the man tells you to clap, you fucking clap. We weren't really expecting all of the pelvic gyrations that occurred, but whatever. Offer frequently jumped off the stage into the huge dance party to join everyone and my friend ended up grinding with him. Everyone freaked out when they played "Me and Giuliani Down by the Schoolyard". The band (seven people?!?) played their hearts out and at the end of a sweaty hour I didn't want !!! to stop. This band is MUST-SEE live- I liked their newest album Strange Weather, Isn't It? but seeing the songs live brought the music to a whole fucking new level.
Lawrenceville Moose; Oct 3
This concert was seriously excellent beyond belief. We drove crazily over here from a different concert and managed to get inside after a ticket snafu in time to hear Dominique Young Unique, a young female rapper from Florida who was wearing an epic spandex bodysuit. Her spitfire performance was a cross between Nicki Minaj and Rye Rye. Needless to say I want to be her.
It took !!! seriously like 30 minutes to do soundcheck, but it ended up being worth it. Singer/frontman Nic Offer brought so much (sometimes-terrifying) energy. If the man tells you to clap, you fucking clap. We weren't really expecting all of the pelvic gyrations that occurred, but whatever. Offer frequently jumped off the stage into the huge dance party to join everyone and my friend ended up grinding with him. Everyone freaked out when they played "Me and Giuliani Down by the Schoolyard". The band (seven people?!?) played their hearts out and at the end of a sweaty hour I didn't want !!! to stop. This band is MUST-SEE live- I liked their newest album Strange Weather, Isn't It? but seeing the songs live brought the music to a whole fucking new level.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Holy Sons
Artist- Holy Sons
Album- Survivalist Tales!
Label- Partisan
Genre- Folk
This album should be in high rotation for its cover art alone. Musically, this is also pretty excellent. Holy Sons is the side project of Emil Amos, the drummer for 2 experimental groups Om and Grails, though it’s his 9th album under this name. Autumnal folk with a dash of avante-garde minimalism with a tendency to be wrenching and depressing at times. It’s moody and a beautiful snippet of electric guitar or piano will crash in when you least expect it- “Golden Child” is carried by a nice, heavy bassline. Spin this and you won’t regret it.
Album- Survivalist Tales!
Label- Partisan
Genre- Folk
This album should be in high rotation for its cover art alone. Musically, this is also pretty excellent. Holy Sons is the side project of Emil Amos, the drummer for 2 experimental groups Om and Grails, though it’s his 9th album under this name. Autumnal folk with a dash of avante-garde minimalism with a tendency to be wrenching and depressing at times. It’s moody and a beautiful snippet of electric guitar or piano will crash in when you least expect it- “Golden Child” is carried by a nice, heavy bassline. Spin this and you won’t regret it.
Young the Giant
Artist- Young the Giant
Album- self-titled
Label- Roadrunner
Genre- Indie-rock
This California five-piece drops their debut album after racking up major hype points from their single “My Body” hitting #1 on HypeMachine. They’ve been on tour with Minus the Bear, who sound pretty similar (also a bit like Cold War Kids). It’s energetic but chill, it’s Californian with a dose of New York flair. Anthemic at times as well. Kudos to these kids for cranking out a nicely entertaining debut of indie-pop.
Album- self-titled
Label- Roadrunner
Genre- Indie-rock
This California five-piece drops their debut album after racking up major hype points from their single “My Body” hitting #1 on HypeMachine. They’ve been on tour with Minus the Bear, who sound pretty similar (also a bit like Cold War Kids). It’s energetic but chill, it’s Californian with a dose of New York flair. Anthemic at times as well. Kudos to these kids for cranking out a nicely entertaining debut of indie-pop.
Envy
Artist- Envy
Album- Recitation
Label- Temporary Residence Ltd.
Genre- Post-rock
Japanese post-rock. I am at a loss on how to describe this. “Last Hours of Eternity” started off as such a nice, sweet song until it EXPLODED in the speakers with a wall of sound and something being yelled in Japanese. It’s melodic, loud as fuck, and bludgeons your ears with noise. Apparently this band has literally made people cry at their concerts from their music….they’re playing here soon so go to it! Fans of Mogwai (they're actually signed to Mogwai's label) and Explosions in the Sky will LOVE this album.
Album- Recitation
Label- Temporary Residence Ltd.
Genre- Post-rock
Japanese post-rock. I am at a loss on how to describe this. “Last Hours of Eternity” started off as such a nice, sweet song until it EXPLODED in the speakers with a wall of sound and something being yelled in Japanese. It’s melodic, loud as fuck, and bludgeons your ears with noise. Apparently this band has literally made people cry at their concerts from their music….they’re playing here soon so go to it! Fans of Mogwai (they're actually signed to Mogwai's label) and Explosions in the Sky will LOVE this album.
Young Man
Artist- Young Man
Album- Boy EP
Label- frenchkiss*
Genre- Folk-indie
Colin Caulfield came to the attention of frenchkiss* Records, home to Passion Pit, the Dodos, and other indie favs, by posting covers of Deerhunter, Ariel pink, and more to his YouTube page. It’s like a indie singer-songwriter success story. Anyway, this EP is a really pleasant listen. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but it has a nice spacey folk sound and Caulfield’s voice reminds me of Panda Bear. “Five” has lovely tropical chord strumming, and “Hands” features some Beta Band-esque percussion/sampling. “Just a Growin’” has a retro vibe that’s slightly psychedelic with layer guitar riffs and an atypical beat. One of the best 30-minutes I’ve listened to this year.
Album- Boy EP
Label- frenchkiss*
Genre- Folk-indie
Colin Caulfield came to the attention of frenchkiss* Records, home to Passion Pit, the Dodos, and other indie favs, by posting covers of Deerhunter, Ariel pink, and more to his YouTube page. It’s like a indie singer-songwriter success story. Anyway, this EP is a really pleasant listen. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but it has a nice spacey folk sound and Caulfield’s voice reminds me of Panda Bear. “Five” has lovely tropical chord strumming, and “Hands” features some Beta Band-esque percussion/sampling. “Just a Growin’” has a retro vibe that’s slightly psychedelic with layer guitar riffs and an atypical beat. One of the best 30-minutes I’ve listened to this year.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Concert Review- Elf Power w/ Ursa Major and a showing of "Major Organ and the Adding Machine"
Elf Power, Ursa Major and a showing of "Major Organ and the Adding Machine"
Friday September 24, 2010
Venue: Brillobox
Once again I'm at Brillobox going to a show for the opener and not the closer. The announcer framed the movie Major Organ and the Adding Machine as a "children’s movie". Bottom line, the movie was, well- to put it nicely- strange and confusing and by no means meant for kids. The whole time I couldn’t help but think at how unhappy a kid would be if he was to see this movie, due to the opening statements. [Ed note- this short film is about the mysterious Elephant 6 musical collective of the same name. it includes members of Neutral Milk Hotel, Elf Power, of Montreal, and Olivia Tremor Control.]
After the movie was over, Ursa Major took the stage. Ursa Major is a local band, several members of which had worked with 92.1 WPTS in the past. Also it is an interesting band to me because I have seen them early in their career and now presently, and the band has evolved in what I see as a positive manner. Back now from a road tour, Ursa was ready to play for the city where it all started and I feel they really delivered. The band has, in my opinion, moved from being a primarily folky band to more of an indie rock band that has folk influences. The music was catchy and fun and still had substance, and in addition to this the band had a good stage presence and energy. I found myself once again dancing with my friend as the music propelled us on.
After a strong set Ursa Major exited stage to make room for the headliner, Elf Power. I have never listened to Elf Power and the show did not really make me want to buy a CD; in fact, I found myself bored and waiting for the show to finish. Now, I should say that this is not normally the music I listen to- I don’t doubt that Elf Power makes good music, but what they played did not excite me or for that matter leave a real memorable mark. I feel guilty even commenting on their set, because I found myself not fully listening. Simply put the music didn’t do anything for me. I should also say though there was a decent sized crowd and there were people moving and an encore was requested and obliged. So, while it might not have been my cup of tea it was working for someone. All in all, I was happy with the night, especially when my bus came on time.
-Matthew James Anderson
Friday September 24, 2010
Venue: Brillobox
Once again I'm at Brillobox going to a show for the opener and not the closer. The announcer framed the movie Major Organ and the Adding Machine as a "children’s movie". Bottom line, the movie was, well- to put it nicely- strange and confusing and by no means meant for kids. The whole time I couldn’t help but think at how unhappy a kid would be if he was to see this movie, due to the opening statements. [Ed note- this short film is about the mysterious Elephant 6 musical collective of the same name. it includes members of Neutral Milk Hotel, Elf Power, of Montreal, and Olivia Tremor Control.]
After the movie was over, Ursa Major took the stage. Ursa Major is a local band, several members of which had worked with 92.1 WPTS in the past. Also it is an interesting band to me because I have seen them early in their career and now presently, and the band has evolved in what I see as a positive manner. Back now from a road tour, Ursa was ready to play for the city where it all started and I feel they really delivered. The band has, in my opinion, moved from being a primarily folky band to more of an indie rock band that has folk influences. The music was catchy and fun and still had substance, and in addition to this the band had a good stage presence and energy. I found myself once again dancing with my friend as the music propelled us on.
After a strong set Ursa Major exited stage to make room for the headliner, Elf Power. I have never listened to Elf Power and the show did not really make me want to buy a CD; in fact, I found myself bored and waiting for the show to finish. Now, I should say that this is not normally the music I listen to- I don’t doubt that Elf Power makes good music, but what they played did not excite me or for that matter leave a real memorable mark. I feel guilty even commenting on their set, because I found myself not fully listening. Simply put the music didn’t do anything for me. I should also say though there was a decent sized crowd and there were people moving and an encore was requested and obliged. So, while it might not have been my cup of tea it was working for someone. All in all, I was happy with the night, especially when my bus came on time.
-Matthew James Anderson
Concert Review Pt 2- Holy Fuck and Indian Jewelry
Holy Fuck featuring Indian Jewelry and South Sea Sneak
Wednesday September 22, 2010
Venue: Brillobox
I am not always the biggest fan of going to a show, or for that matter doing anything in the middle of the week, I was willing to forgo a little sleep for the sake of seeing not Holy Fuck but instead Indian Jewelry. Admittedly it is a little strange to go to a show to see an opener, but for me they were the better known band. The venue began to crowd slightly before the first band, South Sea Sneaks, went on. I'd never heard of this local Pittsburgh band, and I was worried about this particular set due to the unusual appearance of the two band mates. After all, these guys were older, scruffier looking dudes (maybe a bit past their prime, is what came to my mind), but their looks were deceiving and they delivered an impressive opening set. Using a couple of unusual instruments, including one that the bassist said was a magnetic dildo, the band was able to create a really raw and refreshing sound that made one want to band their head a little bit.
By the time Indian Jewelry came on the venue was really beginning to fill up, and for good reason the next two sets were to be good ones. It is stated by some that Indian Jewelry puts on a "seizure inducing set", and they did not let this legend die that night. With a frenzy of strobe lights and human energy Indian Jewelry took stage and did their thing. Indian Jewelry is enjoyable to listen to on CD, but their live show brings a whole new dimension. There is something very raw, even tribal about the music that left me feeling connected to the music and ultimately much energized. To say the least I danced my way into the final set Holy Fuck.
At about 12 midnight the band finally began their set. The set lasted about 45 minutes and really demonstrated the diversity of Holy Fuck; moving the crowd to sway at some points, and at others to really move and dance. Now, I have never listened to much music from Holy Fuck, but this set did make me appreciate them more, as I got the chance to not only hear more of their music, but to also see it preformed. To see a band manipulating such an array of machines to produce such a riveting sound is not only impressive but also enjoyable. I was sad to have to leave a little early to catch my bus, but I definitely did not leave feeling like my money had been poorly spent. Indian Jewelry was everything I could have hoped for and more, Holy Fuck attracted a large crowd and gave them what they wanted and South Seas Sneak was a pleasant surprise.
-Matthew James Anderson
Wednesday September 22, 2010
Venue: Brillobox
I am not always the biggest fan of going to a show, or for that matter doing anything in the middle of the week, I was willing to forgo a little sleep for the sake of seeing not Holy Fuck but instead Indian Jewelry. Admittedly it is a little strange to go to a show to see an opener, but for me they were the better known band. The venue began to crowd slightly before the first band, South Sea Sneaks, went on. I'd never heard of this local Pittsburgh band, and I was worried about this particular set due to the unusual appearance of the two band mates. After all, these guys were older, scruffier looking dudes (maybe a bit past their prime, is what came to my mind), but their looks were deceiving and they delivered an impressive opening set. Using a couple of unusual instruments, including one that the bassist said was a magnetic dildo, the band was able to create a really raw and refreshing sound that made one want to band their head a little bit.
By the time Indian Jewelry came on the venue was really beginning to fill up, and for good reason the next two sets were to be good ones. It is stated by some that Indian Jewelry puts on a "seizure inducing set", and they did not let this legend die that night. With a frenzy of strobe lights and human energy Indian Jewelry took stage and did their thing. Indian Jewelry is enjoyable to listen to on CD, but their live show brings a whole new dimension. There is something very raw, even tribal about the music that left me feeling connected to the music and ultimately much energized. To say the least I danced my way into the final set Holy Fuck.
At about 12 midnight the band finally began their set. The set lasted about 45 minutes and really demonstrated the diversity of Holy Fuck; moving the crowd to sway at some points, and at others to really move and dance. Now, I have never listened to much music from Holy Fuck, but this set did make me appreciate them more, as I got the chance to not only hear more of their music, but to also see it preformed. To see a band manipulating such an array of machines to produce such a riveting sound is not only impressive but also enjoyable. I was sad to have to leave a little early to catch my bus, but I definitely did not leave feeling like my money had been poorly spent. Indian Jewelry was everything I could have hoped for and more, Holy Fuck attracted a large crowd and gave them what they wanted and South Seas Sneak was a pleasant surprise.
-Matthew James Anderson
Crocodiles
Artist- Crocodiles
Album- Sleep Forever
Label- Fat Possum
Genre- Noise pop
Crocodiles is back with album number two and their acclaim has not weakened them but allowed them to grow stronger. For those people that have had the pleasure of listening to the debut album, they will not be disappointed, and for those people that have yet to hear of this band they will be excited. Crocodiles is a genre bending band that really has found a balance in their music, melding together elements of psychadelia, lo-fi, noise pop, and even the elusive shoegaze genre. Crocodiles' sound therefore is very difficult to describe due to its highly original and experimental ways, but one thing can be said for sure and that is that one will not become bored listening to this album. This album is very well made with every song flowing into the next seamlessly, but while still making sure every song is unique. The songs are diverse and intriguing; some being slower while others capitalize on catchier beats. So, while the band is experimental, they are able to utilize their noise to make very catchy and stimulating tracks which makes one lose track of time. The album Sleep Forever can be best described as a refinement and an enhancement for those that know the band and for those that don’t, well, they will not be disappointed if they are looking for something fresh. Crocodiles is back and with this album I think they have affirmed they are not going anywhere but up anytime soon.
Album- Sleep Forever
Label- Fat Possum
Genre- Noise pop
Crocodiles is back with album number two and their acclaim has not weakened them but allowed them to grow stronger. For those people that have had the pleasure of listening to the debut album, they will not be disappointed, and for those people that have yet to hear of this band they will be excited. Crocodiles is a genre bending band that really has found a balance in their music, melding together elements of psychadelia, lo-fi, noise pop, and even the elusive shoegaze genre. Crocodiles' sound therefore is very difficult to describe due to its highly original and experimental ways, but one thing can be said for sure and that is that one will not become bored listening to this album. This album is very well made with every song flowing into the next seamlessly, but while still making sure every song is unique. The songs are diverse and intriguing; some being slower while others capitalize on catchier beats. So, while the band is experimental, they are able to utilize their noise to make very catchy and stimulating tracks which makes one lose track of time. The album Sleep Forever can be best described as a refinement and an enhancement for those that know the band and for those that don’t, well, they will not be disappointed if they are looking for something fresh. Crocodiles is back and with this album I think they have affirmed they are not going anywhere but up anytime soon.
Abe Vigoda
Artist- Abe Vigoda
Album- Crush
Label- PPM
Genre- Rock
Abe Vigoda is a band in constant evolution. This can be both a good and a bad thing. The bad thing with a band that is constantly evolving, is that their music changes, and if you liked where it all started then you might not like what comes later. This is the case with Abe Vigoda; if one listens to Kid City and then this album one will not be able to really recognize the band. For people like me who loved Kid City this isn’t a good thing, yet at the same time this doesn’t mean this album is bad. When I first listened to this album two other artist names came to mind These New Puritans and Los Campesinos (later albums), both of which are good bands to be compared to. On this album Abe utilizes a new set of electronic instruments including the synth and sequencers which creates a much more serious tone, but at the same time Abe is still able to produce very catchy beats even if at times it can be broody. The noise and the chaos of the old days have been cleaned up leaving behind well made polished music with understandable vocals. Abe has over the years traded in its sharp edge for a polished tool, and for people like me it is not a good trade but for many more it is an appreciable trade. One thing for sure though with this album is that it has a real good beat and is very enjoyable to listen to.
-Matthew James Anderson
Album- Crush
Label- PPM
Genre- Rock
Abe Vigoda is a band in constant evolution. This can be both a good and a bad thing. The bad thing with a band that is constantly evolving, is that their music changes, and if you liked where it all started then you might not like what comes later. This is the case with Abe Vigoda; if one listens to Kid City and then this album one will not be able to really recognize the band. For people like me who loved Kid City this isn’t a good thing, yet at the same time this doesn’t mean this album is bad. When I first listened to this album two other artist names came to mind These New Puritans and Los Campesinos (later albums), both of which are good bands to be compared to. On this album Abe utilizes a new set of electronic instruments including the synth and sequencers which creates a much more serious tone, but at the same time Abe is still able to produce very catchy beats even if at times it can be broody. The noise and the chaos of the old days have been cleaned up leaving behind well made polished music with understandable vocals. Abe has over the years traded in its sharp edge for a polished tool, and for people like me it is not a good trade but for many more it is an appreciable trade. One thing for sure though with this album is that it has a real good beat and is very enjoyable to listen to.
-Matthew James Anderson
No Age
Artist- No Age
Album- Everything In Between
Label- Sub Pop
Genre- Noise pop at its finest
No Age is a destructive duo that knows how to do noise rock in an appealing and catchy way, without losing the skull-crushing fun that noise can bring. While many may not know the name No Age, I have faith most have heard their single which debuted in 2008, Eraser. If you know this song, or better yet the band, this album will not disappoint you. No Age still delivers with their well known heavy distortions and catchy beats, but I feel they have added a new element to this album. To me, on this album, No Age finds not only a way to capitalize on fast and catchy noise beats, but also slower, more provocative sounds. One will find many songs that will intensely sweep you up in a blaze of noise and fast beats, while other songs take a more paced approach utilizing on noises ability to make something very intense. In general, the album has a good balance, and for me, I got everything I expected and then more. So, I would say to those with history with the band that will be impressed at their ability to continue providing on their signature sound, while still growing, and for those new to the band I doubt that they will be disappointed if they are looking for something fun and catchy, but that still has a little bite to it.
-Matthew James Anderson
Album- Everything In Between
Label- Sub Pop
Genre- Noise pop at its finest
No Age is a destructive duo that knows how to do noise rock in an appealing and catchy way, without losing the skull-crushing fun that noise can bring. While many may not know the name No Age, I have faith most have heard their single which debuted in 2008, Eraser. If you know this song, or better yet the band, this album will not disappoint you. No Age still delivers with their well known heavy distortions and catchy beats, but I feel they have added a new element to this album. To me, on this album, No Age finds not only a way to capitalize on fast and catchy noise beats, but also slower, more provocative sounds. One will find many songs that will intensely sweep you up in a blaze of noise and fast beats, while other songs take a more paced approach utilizing on noises ability to make something very intense. In general, the album has a good balance, and for me, I got everything I expected and then more. So, I would say to those with history with the band that will be impressed at their ability to continue providing on their signature sound, while still growing, and for those new to the band I doubt that they will be disappointed if they are looking for something fun and catchy, but that still has a little bite to it.
-Matthew James Anderson
Dead Leaf Echo
Artist- Dead Leaf Echo
Album- Truth
Label- 2&1 Records
Genre- Shoegaze
Shoegaze along the lines of Slowdive or Ride. “Half-Truth” is a gorgeous opening track driven by gunfire-quick drumming, dreamy vocals and lovely guitarwork. “Act of Truth” is another stunner driven by female backing vocals. This album is neither revolutionary nor bad- it’s a nice EP for people who wanna hear dreamy shoegaze music.
Album- Truth
Label- 2&1 Records
Genre- Shoegaze
Shoegaze along the lines of Slowdive or Ride. “Half-Truth” is a gorgeous opening track driven by gunfire-quick drumming, dreamy vocals and lovely guitarwork. “Act of Truth” is another stunner driven by female backing vocals. This album is neither revolutionary nor bad- it’s a nice EP for people who wanna hear dreamy shoegaze music.
Carnivores
Artist- Carnivores
Album- If I'm Ancient
Label- Double Phantom
Genre- Tropical punkiness
6 months after cranking out an excellent debut album, this Atlanta-based quartet is back with another homerun of 60’s psychedelic punk. These kids managed to get a stellar write-up in the New York Times yet none of the huge music blogs have caught on yet. Vocals alternate between Caitlin Lang providing either shrieked punk goddess noise (#2) or melodic backing “oooohs” (#3) and Nathaniel Higgins. All the songs are just about 2 minutes long and I never want them to end. The tropical mood of early Abe Vigoda is mixed in quite well too. Carnivores’ unique take on 60’s psychadelia, surf, and punk is what sets them apart from other bands trying to capitalize on the success of lo-fi nowadays. Every track on this album is a winner and is sure to please fans of 60’s revival sound as well as those seeking noisier punkish fare.
Album- If I'm Ancient
Label- Double Phantom
Genre- Tropical punkiness
6 months after cranking out an excellent debut album, this Atlanta-based quartet is back with another homerun of 60’s psychedelic punk. These kids managed to get a stellar write-up in the New York Times yet none of the huge music blogs have caught on yet. Vocals alternate between Caitlin Lang providing either shrieked punk goddess noise (#2) or melodic backing “oooohs” (#3) and Nathaniel Higgins. All the songs are just about 2 minutes long and I never want them to end. The tropical mood of early Abe Vigoda is mixed in quite well too. Carnivores’ unique take on 60’s psychadelia, surf, and punk is what sets them apart from other bands trying to capitalize on the success of lo-fi nowadays. Every track on this album is a winner and is sure to please fans of 60’s revival sound as well as those seeking noisier punkish fare.
Megafaun
Artist- Megafaun
Album- Heretofore EP
Label- Hometapes
Genre- Folk
This indie-folk EP was actually pretty likeable- a tough feat since I despite all things folk. At times it’s a little experimental and there’s always a psychedelic undercurrent throughout. “Carolina Days” is the most upbeat (and shortest) track, carried by acoustic chords (and a cute guitar solo late in the track) and sweet vocal melodies that’s great roadtrip music (lyrically and metaphorically). Great Americana music that should please most folks.
Album- Heretofore EP
Label- Hometapes
Genre- Folk
This indie-folk EP was actually pretty likeable- a tough feat since I despite all things folk. At times it’s a little experimental and there’s always a psychedelic undercurrent throughout. “Carolina Days” is the most upbeat (and shortest) track, carried by acoustic chords (and a cute guitar solo late in the track) and sweet vocal melodies that’s great roadtrip music (lyrically and metaphorically). Great Americana music that should please most folks.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Class Actress- Oct 1st at WPU. Be there!
WPTS FM is hosting Brooklyn-based electropop trio Class Actress here at the William Pitt Union on Oct 1st. That's in a week, kids. The band is signed to Terrible Records, the personal label of Grizzly Bear's Chris Taylor. Kind of a big deal in indie-world. Get your tickets at the WPU office on the main floor and we'll see you dancin' in a week!
HOLY FUCK, INDIAN JEWELRY, SOUTH SEAS SNEAK @ Brillobox
1- South Seas Sneak is a local band consistly of two dudes on drums and bass/ a weird contraption resembling the neck of a guitar that the singer called a "magnetic dildo". Not really sure on the science of that one, but these guys were noisy as hell but still melodic.2- Indian Jewelry rocked, maybe even more than Holy Fuck did. First off, my friends and I have a total girl-crush on the two chicks in the band (banging on the drums while flipping her hair and looking hipster-bored, the other fiddled with switches n' shit). Secondly, the entire show was exactly like the (terrible) picture above- hazy, strobe-filled, perfect walls of sound.
3- Holy Fuck was excellent but man do they have a weird set up- the "singer" (if you can call him that) pulled loops of magnetic reel through a machine to make crazy effects. Tons of pedals, keyboards, and wires. The best part of the band, to me, is their ability to make crazy electronic music without the cop-out option of using a laptop to throw it all together- too often musicianship gets lost. "Latin America" and "Lovely Allen" were the highlights.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
The new trend in album covers= cats
Klaxons- Surfing the Void
Best Coast- Crazy for You
Wavves- King of the BeachThe Growlers
Artist- The Growlers
Album- Hot Tropics EP
Label- Everloving
Genre- Surf rock
Surf psychedelic rock with a tinge of gypsy ramshackle-ness. This is a really interesting album that yet again fits in with the current 60’s revival (Best Coast, Sonny & the Sunsets, Rebel Set). Each song is about 2.5 minutes on average, which really is the perfect length for a nice bit of sunny beachy goodness. Reverb aplenty. I wish the vocals were a bit stronger, but this is still a nice effort overall.
Album- Hot Tropics EP
Label- Everloving
Genre- Surf rock
Surf psychedelic rock with a tinge of gypsy ramshackle-ness. This is a really interesting album that yet again fits in with the current 60’s revival (Best Coast, Sonny & the Sunsets, Rebel Set). Each song is about 2.5 minutes on average, which really is the perfect length for a nice bit of sunny beachy goodness. Reverb aplenty. I wish the vocals were a bit stronger, but this is still a nice effort overall.
Superchunk
Artist- Superchunk
Album- Majesty Shredding
Label- Merge
Genre- Pop-punk
So this is Superchunk’s first album in almost a decade. Hype central. After all, Mac and bassist Laura Balance of the band members founded Merge Records in 1989 as a means of putting out their own records. Nowadays, Merge is home to Spoon, Caribou, Arcade Fire, She & Him, and more big indie names. Given all this, it’s not like Mac and Laura need to keep the band going for money.
Power-punk chords abound, and lead singer Mac McCaughan has a pretty distinctive voice. While nothing on this album comes close to reaching the awesomeness of their best track “Slack Motherfucker” from 1989, it’s nice to see these pop-punk geezers put out something new.
Album- Majesty Shredding
Label- Merge
Genre- Pop-punk
So this is Superchunk’s first album in almost a decade. Hype central. After all, Mac and bassist Laura Balance of the band members founded Merge Records in 1989 as a means of putting out their own records. Nowadays, Merge is home to Spoon, Caribou, Arcade Fire, She & Him, and more big indie names. Given all this, it’s not like Mac and Laura need to keep the band going for money.
Power-punk chords abound, and lead singer Mac McCaughan has a pretty distinctive voice. While nothing on this album comes close to reaching the awesomeness of their best track “Slack Motherfucker” from 1989, it’s nice to see these pop-punk geezers put out something new.
Chromeo
Artist- Chromeo
Album- Business Casual
Label- Atlantic
Genre- RPM, dance
Chromeo’s newest album of synth pop dance music full of 80’s nostalgia. It’s pretty excellent, but it’s also essentially the same album as 2007’s Fancy Footwork. #6 features Solange Knowles (it’s unmarked though), but it’s kind of cheesy. Album is pretty top-heavy too. So pretty much if you like dancing, songs about girls (getting with them, getting rejected by them, getting your heart broken by them), kitsch, synthesizers, or R&B, spin this shit. The other hipsters are probably too young to hear the influences, anyway. Super fun album for getting energy up.
Album- Business Casual
Label- Atlantic
Genre- RPM, dance
Chromeo’s newest album of synth pop dance music full of 80’s nostalgia. It’s pretty excellent, but it’s also essentially the same album as 2007’s Fancy Footwork. #6 features Solange Knowles (it’s unmarked though), but it’s kind of cheesy. Album is pretty top-heavy too. So pretty much if you like dancing, songs about girls (getting with them, getting rejected by them, getting your heart broken by them), kitsch, synthesizers, or R&B, spin this shit. The other hipsters are probably too young to hear the influences, anyway. Super fun album for getting energy up.
Maximum Balloon
Artist- Maximum Balloon
Album- Maximum Balloon
Label- DGC/Interscope
Genre- Synth and funk tinged indie rock
Guitarist (of TV on the Radio) and indie super-producer (at the helm of YYYs, Foals, Liars, and TVOTR albums) Dave Sitek is offering up his first solo album. It sounds a lot like TVOTR’s 2008 Dear Science, with funky percussion and synths, little brass flourishes. Sitek barely sings, instead vocals are handled by a rotating cast included both Kyp and Tunde of TVOTR, Little Dragon, Karen O (on the softer non-punky side), and David Byrne. Sitek’s skill as a producer is evident on this album, and the sound is undeniably his own. This album is much looser and more fun than his tightly structured work with TVOTR however- blending rock and funk influences in the same way Talking Heads did years ago. Really a fun and fantastic album, like a more serious version of NASA.
Album- Maximum Balloon
Label- DGC/Interscope
Genre- Synth and funk tinged indie rock
Guitarist (of TV on the Radio) and indie super-producer (at the helm of YYYs, Foals, Liars, and TVOTR albums) Dave Sitek is offering up his first solo album. It sounds a lot like TVOTR’s 2008 Dear Science, with funky percussion and synths, little brass flourishes. Sitek barely sings, instead vocals are handled by a rotating cast included both Kyp and Tunde of TVOTR, Little Dragon, Karen O (on the softer non-punky side), and David Byrne. Sitek’s skill as a producer is evident on this album, and the sound is undeniably his own. This album is much looser and more fun than his tightly structured work with TVOTR however- blending rock and funk influences in the same way Talking Heads did years ago. Really a fun and fantastic album, like a more serious version of NASA.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Prince Rama
Artist- Prince Rama
Album- Shadow Temple
Label- Carpark
Genre- Experimental
Psychadelic Hindu-influenced music full of big thundering drums and echoing sound. Produced by Animal Collective members Avey Tare and Deakin, which helps explain the weirdness. The leader of this group was raised in a Hare Krishna community in Florida, hence the southeastern Asian sound. Wailed chants similar to Gang Gang Dance. Very ethereal. For fans of Indian Jewelry.
Album- Shadow Temple
Label- Carpark
Genre- Experimental
Psychadelic Hindu-influenced music full of big thundering drums and echoing sound. Produced by Animal Collective members Avey Tare and Deakin, which helps explain the weirdness. The leader of this group was raised in a Hare Krishna community in Florida, hence the southeastern Asian sound. Wailed chants similar to Gang Gang Dance. Very ethereal. For fans of Indian Jewelry.
Chilly Gonzales
Artist- Chilly Gonzales
Album- Ivory Tower
Label- Arts & Crafts
Genre- Electropop, I suppose
You’ve probably already heard part of this album without knowing it- the jaunty, piano intro to “Never Stop”, produced by electro-stars Boys Noize, is in the most current iPad commercial. Gonzales also is best-known as the producer of Feist’s The Reminder, which earned him a Grammy nom. Most of the tracks on this album have very few vocals, but the lyrics are pretty nonsensical to begin with. “Bittersuite” is very similar to Ratatat, with a beautiful arpeggio and string swells accented by synths. Gonzales’ training as a pianist shines through on this album, but the electronic backbeats keep this interesting.
Album- Ivory Tower
Label- Arts & Crafts
Genre- Electropop, I suppose
You’ve probably already heard part of this album without knowing it- the jaunty, piano intro to “Never Stop”, produced by electro-stars Boys Noize, is in the most current iPad commercial. Gonzales also is best-known as the producer of Feist’s The Reminder, which earned him a Grammy nom. Most of the tracks on this album have very few vocals, but the lyrics are pretty nonsensical to begin with. “Bittersuite” is very similar to Ratatat, with a beautiful arpeggio and string swells accented by synths. Gonzales’ training as a pianist shines through on this album, but the electronic backbeats keep this interesting.
Darren Hanlon
Artist- Darren Hanlon
Album- I Will Love You At All
Label- Yep Roc
Genre- Folk indie pop
Sounds like an Australian M. Ward without the annoying dreaminess that kind of irks me about M. Ward. Middle of the road singer-songwriter fare. “Scenes from a Separation” has a nice waltzy beat and girl-boy interplay. I’m not entirely sold on this guy, but it’s nice laid back folky-pop. The lyrics are the real highlight of this album- witty like Jonathan Richman yet startling sincere (see "Scenes from a Seperation"). Give this album a chance or two.
Album- I Will Love You At All
Label- Yep Roc
Genre- Folk indie pop
Sounds like an Australian M. Ward without the annoying dreaminess that kind of irks me about M. Ward. Middle of the road singer-songwriter fare. “Scenes from a Separation” has a nice waltzy beat and girl-boy interplay. I’m not entirely sold on this guy, but it’s nice laid back folky-pop. The lyrics are the real highlight of this album- witty like Jonathan Richman yet startling sincere (see "Scenes from a Seperation"). Give this album a chance or two.
Electric Sunset
Artist- Electric Sunset
Album- Electric Sunset
Label- K Records
Genre- Chill-wave
This album is pretty rad. It’s the debut solo effort from Nic Zwart, the singer for Desolation Wilderness (an Olympia, WA group). He’s also pretty cute if you look at the album cover. Very relaxed chillwave along the lines of Toro y Moi or Washed Out (or a less glitch-y Baths). Very “shimmery” electronic sound, a little synthy. Pleasant male vocals. Basically this is a very excellent debut album that combines elements of chillwave with catchy indie pop sensibilities. Perfect transition from summer into fall.
Album- Electric Sunset
Label- K Records
Genre- Chill-wave
This album is pretty rad. It’s the debut solo effort from Nic Zwart, the singer for Desolation Wilderness (an Olympia, WA group). He’s also pretty cute if you look at the album cover. Very relaxed chillwave along the lines of Toro y Moi or Washed Out (or a less glitch-y Baths). Very “shimmery” electronic sound, a little synthy. Pleasant male vocals. Basically this is a very excellent debut album that combines elements of chillwave with catchy indie pop sensibilities. Perfect transition from summer into fall.
Lazerbeak
Artist- Lazerbeak
Album- Legend Recognize Legend
Label- Doomtree
Genre- Vaguely hip-hip, indie mostly
It’s unclear what the slant on this album is: the sticker says hip-hop, yet there’s no rapping to be found and this sounds mostly like Miike Snow with a slightly gruffer singer. Lazerbeak is part of/ a main producer for the Doomtree collective of hiphop artists- notably he helped produced the Dessa album. “Salt and Sea” is INSANELY catchy. Dessa lends some much-appreciated soothing female vocals to “Bound”, a more chill track. Opener “Dream Team” may seem a little dull at first, but the song blows up to a huge chorus with about a minute left. Blending electronic beats and typical indie-rock style, this is an intriguing effort.
Album- Legend Recognize Legend
Label- Doomtree
Genre- Vaguely hip-hip, indie mostly
It’s unclear what the slant on this album is: the sticker says hip-hop, yet there’s no rapping to be found and this sounds mostly like Miike Snow with a slightly gruffer singer. Lazerbeak is part of/ a main producer for the Doomtree collective of hiphop artists- notably he helped produced the Dessa album. “Salt and Sea” is INSANELY catchy. Dessa lends some much-appreciated soothing female vocals to “Bound”, a more chill track. Opener “Dream Team” may seem a little dull at first, but the song blows up to a huge chorus with about a minute left. Blending electronic beats and typical indie-rock style, this is an intriguing effort.
Junip
Artist- Junip
Album- Fields
Label- MUTE
Genre- Electronic chill folk-pop
Truly excellent folk-electronic project from José González (famous for covering The Knife's "Heartbeats" in a Sony commercial) and 2 of his friends. This album screams “autumn” to me. It’s folky but without a lot of guitars? (Hard to explain). It’s like a less glitchy Broken Bells. Really chill, relaxed drums/percussion and smooth keys/piano complement Gonzalez’s voice (sexy, melodic, Swedish, a bit like the guy from Hot Chip without falsetto). Sounds like Gonzalez’s solo work or Air.
Album- Fields
Label- MUTE
Genre- Electronic chill folk-pop
Truly excellent folk-electronic project from José González (famous for covering The Knife's "Heartbeats" in a Sony commercial) and 2 of his friends. This album screams “autumn” to me. It’s folky but without a lot of guitars? (Hard to explain). It’s like a less glitchy Broken Bells. Really chill, relaxed drums/percussion and smooth keys/piano complement Gonzalez’s voice (sexy, melodic, Swedish, a bit like the guy from Hot Chip without falsetto). Sounds like Gonzalez’s solo work or Air.
Olof Arnalds
Artist- Olof Arnalds
Album- Innundir Skinni
Label- One Little Indian (Bjork's label)
Genre- folky
If you’re into folk or Icelandic music, or the two combined, you’ll like this. Arnalds (a chick, btw) is a member of mum and released her first solo album about a year and half ago. Arnalds has a pleasant, soft voice and frequently she duets with a rotating casts of male vocalists. Certain songs are in English (#3) while others are in Icelandic (2). “Surrender” features Icelandic’s pop star herself, Bjork, in a nice understated acoustic track.
Album- Innundir Skinni
Label- One Little Indian (Bjork's label)
Genre- folky
If you’re into folk or Icelandic music, or the two combined, you’ll like this. Arnalds (a chick, btw) is a member of mum and released her first solo album about a year and half ago. Arnalds has a pleasant, soft voice and frequently she duets with a rotating casts of male vocalists. Certain songs are in English (#3) while others are in Icelandic (2). “Surrender” features Icelandic’s pop star herself, Bjork, in a nice understated acoustic track.
Grinderman
Artist- Grinderman
Album- Grinderman 2
Label- ANTI-
Genre- Blues rock, fuzzy out, Nick Cave (his own genre!)
Blues-punk outfit featuring Nick Cave that sounds like a heavier and noisier Black Keys. It rocks. The lyrics are wacky and innuendo-filled, though usually it just sounds goofy. Nick Cave does his weird warbling voice thing that’s indescribable but sick as hell (like the creepiness of Tom Waits, without the growling, plus warbling). This album is intriguing and is certainly the best effort out of a recent trend of “heavy” 70’s influenced bands (one site calls this “post-punk cock rock”). Badass, rough guitar work. Nick Cave yet again proves why he’s still kicking serious ass after 30 years in the business.
Album- Grinderman 2
Label- ANTI-
Genre- Blues rock, fuzzy out, Nick Cave (his own genre!)
Blues-punk outfit featuring Nick Cave that sounds like a heavier and noisier Black Keys. It rocks. The lyrics are wacky and innuendo-filled, though usually it just sounds goofy. Nick Cave does his weird warbling voice thing that’s indescribable but sick as hell (like the creepiness of Tom Waits, without the growling, plus warbling). This album is intriguing and is certainly the best effort out of a recent trend of “heavy” 70’s influenced bands (one site calls this “post-punk cock rock”). Badass, rough guitar work. Nick Cave yet again proves why he’s still kicking serious ass after 30 years in the business.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
S. Carey
Artist- S. Carey
Album- All We Grow
Label- Jagjaguwar
Genre- Folky classical pop
First solo album from the drummer and pianist of Bon Iver, although this album is surprisingly light on percussion. Very atmospheric singer-songwriter type of album featuring classical arrangements- a holdover from Carey’s formal education. “In the Dirt” begins with a piano repetition but slowly Carey’s layered, delicate vocals take over while little arpeggios loop in the background. “Mothers” is a more subdued track that still stands out well. “Action” is a great instrumental that highlights Carey’s percussion skills. Overall this is a really pretty, softer album.
Album- All We Grow
Label- Jagjaguwar
Genre- Folky classical pop
First solo album from the drummer and pianist of Bon Iver, although this album is surprisingly light on percussion. Very atmospheric singer-songwriter type of album featuring classical arrangements- a holdover from Carey’s formal education. “In the Dirt” begins with a piano repetition but slowly Carey’s layered, delicate vocals take over while little arpeggios loop in the background. “Mothers” is a more subdued track that still stands out well. “Action” is a great instrumental that highlights Carey’s percussion skills. Overall this is a really pretty, softer album.
Ra Ra Riot
Artist- Ra Ra Riot
Album- The Orchard
Label- Barsuk
Genre- Indie pop
Indie-pop favorites Ra Ra Riot return with a solid second album. The arrangements are tighter ( violist and sometimes vocalist Rebecca Zeller and cellist Alexandra Lawn add a lush fullness to each song), the lyrics are more mature, and sure, singer Wes Miles still sounds quite a bit like Vampire Weekend’s Ezra Koenig, but who cares at this point? Single “Boy” is a beautiful upbeat song that’s nicely countered by the melancholy touch of strings. “Too Dramatic” follows this up by keeping up the same energy that makes early singles like “Dying is Fine” or “Ghost Under Rocks” so darn listenable. Sure, there’s a few filler tracks (“Massachusetts”, “Do You Remember”), but it’s allowed. Stunner “You and I”, where cellist Lawn gets a turn at vocals, is perfect beyond words. Ra Ra Riot has always been a details-oriented band, and this album excels on the interplay between the vocals, strings, bouncy guitar riffs and superb drumming. This album finds the band honing their sound and exploring new territory. Play this often.
Album- The Orchard
Label- Barsuk
Genre- Indie pop
Indie-pop favorites Ra Ra Riot return with a solid second album. The arrangements are tighter ( violist and sometimes vocalist Rebecca Zeller and cellist Alexandra Lawn add a lush fullness to each song), the lyrics are more mature, and sure, singer Wes Miles still sounds quite a bit like Vampire Weekend’s Ezra Koenig, but who cares at this point? Single “Boy” is a beautiful upbeat song that’s nicely countered by the melancholy touch of strings. “Too Dramatic” follows this up by keeping up the same energy that makes early singles like “Dying is Fine” or “Ghost Under Rocks” so darn listenable. Sure, there’s a few filler tracks (“Massachusetts”, “Do You Remember”), but it’s allowed. Stunner “You and I”, where cellist Lawn gets a turn at vocals, is perfect beyond words. Ra Ra Riot has always been a details-oriented band, and this album excels on the interplay between the vocals, strings, bouncy guitar riffs and superb drumming. This album finds the band honing their sound and exploring new territory. Play this often.
The Walkmen
Artist- The Walkmen
Album- Lisbon
Label- Fat Posseum
Genre- Waltsy rock
The Walkmen have yet again put out another elegiac, stunning album on the level of genius that was 2008’s You & Me. The band knows just when to add the right touch of melancholy trumpet on a track (single “Stranded”) to give their signature waltz-y gloom to a song, a nuance that made songs like “Red Moon” off You & Me so fucking beautiful and haunting. “Blue as Your Blood” is carried by an interesting galloping percussion beat and the Walkmen’s traditional melancholy guitars. “Juveniles” The band is great at making simple guitar melodies super catchy . Hamilton Leithauser still sounds like a wailing Bob Dylan, but I’d rather listen to him over Dylan’s whine anyday. For many people the Walkmen is still that band that performed on The OC but get over it- definitely one of the most mature and intriguing bands out there today. It’s tough to find faults with this album (true perfection doesn’t exist, and You & Me is still a better album) but Lisbon comes pretty damn close.
Album- Lisbon
Label- Fat Posseum
Genre- Waltsy rock
The Walkmen have yet again put out another elegiac, stunning album on the level of genius that was 2008’s You & Me. The band knows just when to add the right touch of melancholy trumpet on a track (single “Stranded”) to give their signature waltz-y gloom to a song, a nuance that made songs like “Red Moon” off You & Me so fucking beautiful and haunting. “Blue as Your Blood” is carried by an interesting galloping percussion beat and the Walkmen’s traditional melancholy guitars. “Juveniles” The band is great at making simple guitar melodies super catchy . Hamilton Leithauser still sounds like a wailing Bob Dylan, but I’d rather listen to him over Dylan’s whine anyday. For many people the Walkmen is still that band that performed on The OC but get over it- definitely one of the most mature and intriguing bands out there today. It’s tough to find faults with this album (true perfection doesn’t exist, and You & Me is still a better album) but Lisbon comes pretty damn close.
Buke and Gass
Artist- Buke and Gass
Album- Riposte
Label- Brassland
Genre- Rock, experimental
This is one of the best surprisingly good random CDs I’ve gotten in awhile. 2 person group from Brooklyn who are signed to The National’s personal record label. Singer Arone Dyer sounds a bit a cross between Marnie Stern and the chicks from Dirty Projectors. She also plays a self-made instrument called the “buke” (baritone + ukulele, pronounced byook) while Aron Sanchez (please have weirder names, kthxbye) rocks out on the “gass” (guitar + bass….get it??). The effect is awesomely weird. It’s angular with tempo changes, it’s noisy yet not punky, it’s chaotic, and it’s a helluva good debut. For fans of wacky music like Melt Banana or M. Stern.
Album- Riposte
Label- Brassland
Genre- Rock, experimental
This is one of the best surprisingly good random CDs I’ve gotten in awhile. 2 person group from Brooklyn who are signed to The National’s personal record label. Singer Arone Dyer sounds a bit a cross between Marnie Stern and the chicks from Dirty Projectors. She also plays a self-made instrument called the “buke” (baritone + ukulele, pronounced byook) while Aron Sanchez (please have weirder names, kthxbye) rocks out on the “gass” (guitar + bass….get it??). The effect is awesomely weird. It’s angular with tempo changes, it’s noisy yet not punky, it’s chaotic, and it’s a helluva good debut. For fans of wacky music like Melt Banana or M. Stern.
Wildbirds & Peacedrums
Artist- Wildbirds & Peacedrums
Album- Rivers
Label- The Control Group
Genre- Experimental, choral, Swedish *yes, that ought to be its own genre
Swedish husband-and-wife duo compiles 2 EPs released earlier in the year into one disc. The first half of the album (Retina) uses the same Icelandic choir that recorded Bjork’s Medulla (aka her all vocals album from a few years back) to create weird, atmospheric goodness. Vocalist Mariam Wallentin has a fantastic haunting voice; her husband Andreas Werlin is a fierce percussionist and the force of his drumming is evident in the echoing reverb sound. The second EP, Iris (starting with track 6) is much warmer and more accessible- “The Wave” has a nice repeating marimba (or maybe it’s steel pan?) riff. Definitely more of an experimental album, but it’s worth the risk.
Album- Rivers
Label- The Control Group
Genre- Experimental, choral, Swedish *yes, that ought to be its own genre
Swedish husband-and-wife duo compiles 2 EPs released earlier in the year into one disc. The first half of the album (Retina) uses the same Icelandic choir that recorded Bjork’s Medulla (aka her all vocals album from a few years back) to create weird, atmospheric goodness. Vocalist Mariam Wallentin has a fantastic haunting voice; her husband Andreas Werlin is a fierce percussionist and the force of his drumming is evident in the echoing reverb sound. The second EP, Iris (starting with track 6) is much warmer and more accessible- “The Wave” has a nice repeating marimba (or maybe it’s steel pan?) riff. Definitely more of an experimental album, but it’s worth the risk.
M.I.A.
Artist-M.I.A.
Album- Maya
Label- XL/ NEET
Genre-electropop? vaguely hiphop
DO NOT APPROACH THIS ALBUM EXPECTING ANOTHER “PAPER PLANES”! M.I.A. has become a caricature of herself; her insistence on calling herself a “music terrorist” is tired and played-out, interviews show that she really is kind of clueless about politics, oh and she’s living in a posh suburb of Los Angeles. Her response to a New York Times Magazine feature that exposed her bullshit was to put the author’s personal phone number on Twitter. This type of childish antics would maybe be acceptable if MAYA didn’t suck so bad. “XXXO” is a disappointing attempt at a mainstream Billboard single that sounds like bad Madonna- the exact type of sexy pop star that MIA supposedly despises. Other single “Born Free”, with its “controversial” video that was made only to garner attention is little more than MIA stealing a sample of Suicide’s “Ghost Rider” and lazily talking over it. Most of the other songs are full of industrial noises, and her former producer/ex boyfriend Diplo’s claims that the cd sounds like a bad Skinny Puppy cd ring pretty true. The only thing approaching a good song, “Meds and Feds” featuring a Sleigh Bells sample, is unplayable due to FCC codes. Her lyrics lack the cleverness of Arular and the beats are trash compared to Kala. This is how to commit career suicide.
Album- Maya
Label- XL/ NEET
Genre-electropop? vaguely hiphop
DO NOT APPROACH THIS ALBUM EXPECTING ANOTHER “PAPER PLANES”! M.I.A. has become a caricature of herself; her insistence on calling herself a “music terrorist” is tired and played-out, interviews show that she really is kind of clueless about politics, oh and she’s living in a posh suburb of Los Angeles. Her response to a New York Times Magazine feature that exposed her bullshit was to put the author’s personal phone number on Twitter. This type of childish antics would maybe be acceptable if MAYA didn’t suck so bad. “XXXO” is a disappointing attempt at a mainstream Billboard single that sounds like bad Madonna- the exact type of sexy pop star that MIA supposedly despises. Other single “Born Free”, with its “controversial” video that was made only to garner attention is little more than MIA stealing a sample of Suicide’s “Ghost Rider” and lazily talking over it. Most of the other songs are full of industrial noises, and her former producer/ex boyfriend Diplo’s claims that the cd sounds like a bad Skinny Puppy cd ring pretty true. The only thing approaching a good song, “Meds and Feds” featuring a Sleigh Bells sample, is unplayable due to FCC codes. Her lyrics lack the cleverness of Arular and the beats are trash compared to Kala. This is how to commit career suicide.
Friday, April 9, 2010
jj- n°3
Artist- jj
Album- n°3
Label- Secretly Canadian
Genre- Dreamy
The sort-of-secret Swedish duo is back with their second album in nine months (though this is a step down from their debut n°2). The first track takes Lil Wayne’s verse from The Game’s “My Life” and turns it into a sick, spare piano tune sung by a smoky-voiced chanteuse. Each song, even the more upbeat “You Know”, is dreamy and intoxicating. Blissfully drugged out, this makes for excellent late night chill music. Currently on tour with The XX, the similarities between the minimalist sounds of both groups are evident.
Album- n°3
Label- Secretly Canadian
Genre- Dreamy
The sort-of-secret Swedish duo is back with their second album in nine months (though this is a step down from their debut n°2). The first track takes Lil Wayne’s verse from The Game’s “My Life” and turns it into a sick, spare piano tune sung by a smoky-voiced chanteuse. Each song, even the more upbeat “You Know”, is dreamy and intoxicating. Blissfully drugged out, this makes for excellent late night chill music. Currently on tour with The XX, the similarities between the minimalist sounds of both groups are evident.
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