Music Amused

I'm Moving!

I've got a new music blog...

It's not super awesome just yet, since I'm working to add stuff onto it.

But, check it out and favorite it (or subscribe) so you won't miss out on any goodness!

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Aww, How Cute!

In the 1990s, bands in Sweden had hardcore names. Death and blood were two common components to names of bands. One of these bands, Skull, decided to break away from the scariness and go in a totally different direction. Vocalist Patrik Arve joined brothers Joakim (the lead guitarist for Caesars) and Klas Åhlund (who has produced much of Caesars' albums) in changing their name to Teddybears STHLM (the abbreviation meaning Stockholm, Sweden).

In 1993, their first album came out You Are Teddybears. Only 35 minutes long, the album has song titles like, "At the Dentist's", and "Move it Vomit". In '96, their second album release, I Can't Believe It's Teddybears STHLM, hit the country. It wasn't until 2000 with Rock 'n' Roll Highschool that Teddybears STHLM began getting a little bit of exposure. Their first two albums were mostly hard rock, but now they were slowly beginning to break into some new territory. Their well known song "Punkrocker" debuted here. Not too many people know that there's an alternate "Punkrocker" song, too. It's called "Hiphopper" (feat. Teddybears STHLM) by Swedish rapper Tom Rusiak. Tom also worked with the bears on the title track off this album. AND, if I can remember correctly, I believe "Hiphopper" is also on the Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back Soundtrack.

In 2004, Epic Records released the band's fourth album Fresh. Later (2005), it was re-released by Sony Records. Song to mention from Fresh is "Hey Boy". It's a fun party song, maybe even a sort of anthem, and they use a lot of pot smoking references (and really, everyone likes those, right?!). Almost half of Fresh was also included in their latest record Soft Machine. That record came out in 2006, and is what really put these bears on the map. Working with the likes of Elephant Man, Neneh Cherry, and Daddy Boastin' and dropping the STHLM from their name, they started to get some play and recognition in the U.S. They even included their hit "Punkrocker" featuring Iggy Pop. Another hit, "Cobrastyle" with artist Mad Cobra, can be heard all over the place. It's the one that you have a rough time getting out of your head, "My style is da-bomb, diggy bomb, di-dang, di-dang boogy boogy, ooo-ooh, ooo-ooh!" It's been on HBO's show Entourage and ABC's Grey's Anatomy, as well as other spots.

After everyone listened to "Cobrastyle" for awhile, "Different Sound" was their newest popular track. And it did have a different sound, but it's still fun. All of their songs are. They even performed at Coachella last year. So, if you're in need of some serious music to throw onto a party cd, these are your guys. For sure.

Oh, here's a little bonus tidbit from Wikipedia:

"In an interview with Scandinavian news agency TT Spectra, Joakim Akerlund states that he hopes to record a new Teddybears album in the fall of 2008. Two tracks are already recorded with rapper Slick Rick and Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne."

So...should we be on the lookout? I hope!

Photo Sources: Wikipedia, Amazon

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...Earth is Dandy Again...

The new Dandy Warhols album just came out two days ago. I don't know what you all think, but I'm excited and have been looking forward to it all summer. "...Earth to the Dandy Warhols... is the band's eighth album, with the last one in 2005. So, it's been a few years since we've heard anything new from these guys (and gal).

If you aren't sure you know about the Dandy Warhols, you've probably heard one of their songs. With their name being a spin-off of the famed pop artist Andy Warhol, they too are eminent in modern pop culture. (Great for me! I love both of 'em!)

Anyways, the ones you are most likely to have run across is the song "We Used to be Friends" from their fourth album Welcome to the Monkey House in 2003. That song has been on shows such as The O.C. and Veronica Mars. But another track "Bohemian Like You" has been heard in many more places. I'd even say it's very likely their most known song (to date). You could have heard it way back when Buffy the Vampire Slayer was on. Or, you could have heard it in the movie "The Replacements", the show Numb3rs, and Six Feet Under. Oh yeah, I recall hearing it in "50 First Dates" with Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, too.

Look for them on the upcoming tribute album for The Cure, too! As far as shows go, they aren't going to be in my Steel City, unfortunately. (*pout*)

Check to see if they'll be visiting your city though, here. Hmmm, perhaps it might be time for a trip to Philly next month...like, say....around the 20th when they'll be playing a show there? Time will tell...

Photo Sources: The Dandy Warhols Website

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AE New American Music Festival: Day 2

Here's the 2nd part (originally posted on MelodyTrip.com) --

After all of the fun from Friday night's performances, I couldn't wait until Saturday. I'd wanted to catch some of the college acts, but fate didn't allow it. Fate also didn't allow me to get the first two main acts, Duke Spirit and Black Mountain, either. I'm definitely not complaining though, because I was at a media briefing instead. It was a very surreal, cool thing to be standing in the same medium-sized room as (not so medium) Tiny Masters of Today, Spoon, Anthony Kiedis, and Gnarls Barkley.

I did hear that both Duke Spirit and Black Mountain put on a great show. I'd listened to some Black Mountain previously, and I know that a lot of people appreciate their psychadelic rock. But, fewer people have heard of Duke Spirit, and I think that after Saturday's show, they've got some brand new fans. Personally, I could not wait for Spoon. I've been a fan of theirs for years, and I am still in awe from their performance. Though, a little tidbit of info that I didn't know was that they formed in 1993, and their first album was released in '96. But we'll get to them after Gnarls Barkley (gotta keep the order!).

In the press briefing, Gnarls Barkley was asked if we could have any indication to what outfit they'd be wearing that evening. After thinking about it for a second, Cee-Lo said, "We're not even sure yet, whatevers clean." Brian Burton (Danger Mouse) chimed in with, "We'll be matching." Their choice didn't let us down, either. They had on summery light, crisp white outfits with matching camel brown suit jackets. Their performance did not let us down, either. I was impressed with how well Cee-Lo's voice carried over the crowd for the entire set. Everyone in the crowd (including me!) danced to songs like "Smiley Faces", "Run", and of course, "Crazy". There were a couple slow ones mixed in, but they were artfully added to keep the crowd entertained.

Next, I watched as Spoon came out onto the stage to do some sound checks, and make sure the equipment was set up properly. At the beginning of their show, they all had on sunglasses. Lead singer and guitarist, Britt Daniel mentioned that it's the 3rd time they've been in Pittsburgh in the last year. (I hope there will be a 4th...and 5th!) Keyboardist Eric Harvey also caught my attention because he looked like he was having a good time jammin' out and tappin' the ivories. They also literally played ALL of my favorite songs. I really couldn't have been any happier. Also, it was noticeable that the rest of the audience was pleased with their song choices, as well. But, I don't want to keep going on and on and sound like a crazy superfan -- SO, moving along...

The Raconteurs rocked the entire Southside of Pittsburgh with their show. By this time in the show, I admit I was more towards the back. But, that didn't change the fact that they had an obvious amount of fun just playing the hell out of their guitars. Their song performances included, "Steady As She Goes", which was written by Jack White and Brendan Benson. It was actually that very song that inspired them to go full force with an actual band in 2005. All of the band's fans were very pleased and glad to have gotten to see them in our city of Pittsburgh. Oh, and if you love them, and want to check out their site, you should! It's quite sensational in a 'dual color Pre-Windows platform' kind of way.

Ah, and last but certainly not least, Bob Dylan and his band. I will sheepishly mention that I was unbelievably exhausted by this time. Of course, I was ecstatic to see Dylan, knowing that I can say I saw him in concert. The crowd was amazing, the night was beautiful and clear, everything was perfect. But, I've got someone that can tell you all about it better than I. Luckily, Torre MacQueen wasn't as bleary as me, and she'll soon have a bunch more to fill you in on concerning the end of the evening. So, keep your eyes out for her story!

Oh! I wanted to quickly add that when Anthony Kiedis made a brief appearance on stage, he genuinely said he couldn't be more pleased with the turnout. (Whoooo!) Must have been true too, because on his way off stage, he yelled "See ya next year!" So...looks like there will be another great music festival next year. I don't know about you guys, but I can't wait to see who will be playing in the Steel City next year!

Photo Source: Heather Frazier

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AE New American Music Festival

This week I'm going to post about the music festival I attended last weekend. It was American Eagle Outfitters first ever New American Music Festival curated by Anthony Kiedis. It was a great time, and I can't wait until it's back next year!

(Posted originally on MelodyTrip.com)

Friday, August 8th marked the beginning of something new, fun, and different for the hipsters of Pittsburgh. American Eagle Outfitters New American Music Union Festival. Say that five times fast. Anthony Kiedis, frontman for Red Hot Chili Peppers, was given permission to go crazy and pick bands out of an endless pool for this first ever fest.

Upon arrival to the scene, I noticed that the layout was wonderfully well thought out. There was lots of room to roam about with out the feeling of being stomped over. They even had everything clearly marked, from the media tent, to the main entrance, to the first aid area. The staff was very cordial and considerate, which always makes these kind of events much more pleasant. After getting my free tee shirt and water bottle, I entered the main stage area ready for whatever came next.

First up was The Tiny Masters of Today. I looked forward to seeing and hearing what these young siblings were up to. Ada, 12, and Ivan, 14, sing songs loudly in a punk rock style while poking fun at adults, including George Bush. While I appreciate their courage and young ambition, I think they've a lot of work to do. Also, it remains a mystery to me who their drummer is. A shaggy haired guy that I mistakenly thought had a Burger King crown upon his head. Hmmmm. (Note: The drummer mystery has been solved! It's "It Boy" Jackson Pollis, a regular on the MisShapes scene.)
Though, besides that, I did enjoy some of the guitar riffs, as long as it was clear. Plenty of times it sounded like the equipment was putting a damper on their performance, and the microphone squealing and hissing didn't help, either.

Next up comes NASA (North America, South America). Picked by Kiedis as the main breakthrough band, they are sure to be making huge tidal waves through the industry. Being a synth-pop fan myself, I couldn't wait to hear them, and I couldn't believe I've never heard them before! A duo made up of Squeak E. Clean and DJ Zegon, they made their grand entrance wearing bright orange spacesuits, without the big globe domes over their heads though. They kept the crowd dancing happily while keeping them interested for more. What song would be thrown in the megamix next? They included the likes of Pink Floyd and AC/DC, Ram Jam, Rolling Stones, and some Nirvana. But, they also brilliantly threw in new, modern electronica, like new artist Santogold, Hot Chip, and Benny Benassi, as well. I loved how the pair really got 'into' the hard beats they produce, with fist pumping and everything! There was lots of other interesting things to look at, too, to prevent boredom (though, I don't know if that would be possible). Out came two 'alien' girls dancing around while painted green and donning bright silver leotards. Next in the mix came out a few breakdancing guys in blue suits. Their dance moves included the robot while dousing the crowd with water from their bright supersoakers. As if that wasn't enough, out comes this monkey guy with a dinosaur head. I am not sure exactly what one might call the species. I should try and ask them.

The crowd got impressively larger for The Black Keys. More known than the previous two acts, the Keys had lots of loyal fans ready to rock their blues out.
From Wikipedia: "The band's name was inspired by an artist friend of the band in Akron, OH with schizophrenia, who used the term "black keys" to describe people who weren't quite right."
Their fifth and newest album, Attack & Release, came out in April earlier this year. I enjoyed their choices from the album in their playlist. They included their hit "Strange Times" (which is featured in this years Grand Theft Auto IV video game), and my personal favorite, "I Got Mine".

The Roots were the last act, closing out the night. I think everyone there was most excited for them, which was proven by the amount of people. Their performance was filled with jazzy instrumentals mixed in with hip hop. What I enjoy about The Roots is that so many of their songs have a totally different sound to them. They didn't play a couple of the songs I really hoped to hear, but there were a few that I were glad to have in their set including a supersonic, fast version of "The Seed 2.0". On a few different occassions, the group psyched everyone out by playing a serious drumroll, signaling the grand finale. But, all of a sudden, like a jolt of electricity, they'd burst into another song. When they were actually done, I was glad it was for real, and they weren't messing with us again. But, only because I really had to pee. (Note: There are tons and tons of Port-a-Pottys. Little Tip: The ones way in back aren't used nearly as much as the ones in front.)

Photo Source: Heather Frazier

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OH, What?

Nathaniel Motte and Sean Foreman sure have a lot of people buzzing. Especially if they've gone to this year's Van's Warped Tour. So, where are they from? They come from the 303. That's right...Boulder. Colorado. The duo makes up 3OH!3, which began around 4 years ago when they were in college.

Luckily, they had loads of friends in bands, and that's how they got their start. Playing small gigs around town, they became more known. Then, last year when Warped Tour came around, they joined in on the Denver lineup. Now, this year, they're hip-hopping around on the whole thing!

The thing I like about 3OH!3 is that there seems to be a little something for everybody. Let's see, there's rock, rap, electronica, and comedy! Maybe even a little bit of country since they do call their jams "honky tonk crunk".

Nonetheless, locals around Denver have known about these guys for quite some time. Now, we're finally getting in on the action! Last year, they self-released a self-titled album, but I don't really know much about that. Other than what I just said.

BUT, in fact...just earlier this month they released their first real album, Want, with Photo Finish Records. The track "PunkBitch" is the most known. Have you heard it? If you've gone to this years Warped Tour, you probably have. The tour definitely has helped 3OH!3 find tons of new fans, and they show their love by wearing tee shirts bearing the word "PunkBitch" (or just the band's name).

Here are the rest of the tour dates for this summer:

Today	Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre	Noblesville, IN
Fri	Tomorrow	Marcus Amphitheater	Milwaukee, WI
Sat	Aug 02	First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre	Tinley Park, IL
Sun	Aug 03	Canterbury Park	Shakopee, MN
Tue	Aug 05	Credit Union Centre	Saskatoon, SK
Wed	Aug 06	Race City Speedway	Calgary, AB
Fri	Aug 08	Idaho Center Amphitheatre	Nampa, ID
Sat	Aug 09	Gorge Amphitheatre	George, WA
Sun	Aug 10	Columbia Meadows	St. Helens, OR
Wed	Aug 13	Save Mart Center	Fresno, CA
Thu	Aug 14	Coors Amphitheater	Chula Vista, CA
Fri	Aug 15	Shoreline Amphitheatre	Mountain View, CA
Sat	Aug 16	Sleep Train Amphitheatre	Marysville, CA
Sun	Aug 17	The Home Depot Center	Carson, CA

If you're curious to see if the tour hit up your city, or you're thinking, "OMG, I missed it!", click here to double check.

Otherwise, see ya in 2 weeks. I'm off to the beach (finally!!!!), so I won't be writing next week.

~Later!

Photo & Text Sources: www.sarahcass.com, Warped Tour

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New to You

I forget where I was sitting when I saw something about Tilly and the Wall. Maybe it was the description of their sound that got me wondering. Something containing the phrases "boys and girls singing in unison", "indie pop", and "tap dancing instead of drums". Yes, that there is enough to intrigue anyone!

In 2001, the five member band, Tilly and the Wall formed after some of the member's previous musical endeavors fell through. After three years, their debut album Wild Like Children was released. It did well enough to propel the band into touring with Rilo Kiley, Bright Eyes, and Of Montreal.

In 2006, Bottoms of Barrels came out. Two members of the band wed each other, Jamie Williams (the tap dancer) and Derek Pressnall (vocals and guitar). A few months later in October, they performed on Late Show with David Letterman. Last year, they also played at Coachella. Definitely not too bad for a band that seems so obscure.

Their third album, "O", came out last month. It's an 11 track, 32 minute disc with more voices and instruments than ever. I recommend listening to "Pot Kettle Black", their most recognized new song off the record.

OH, and how awesome is this tidbit from Amazon? "The band invited everyone in their community to contribute to the cover art for this record, and every month it will have limited edition runs of handmade prints by different artists; or you could even create your own."

This Sunday they'll be performing in Philadelphia, at First Unitarian Church. The 30th, they're at the famed Bowery Ballroom in New York. AND Sunday, August 3rd, they are here in Pittsburgh! (Must mark that in the calendar!)

In September, they'll be touring over on the west coast with Brazil's CSS (Cansei de Ser Sexy, which is Portuguese for "Tired of Being So Sexy"). They're the ones that happily sing, "Music is my boyfriend...". You can bet you'll probably be tired, too, after going to see one of those upbeat, dance-til-you-drop shows.

For more tour dates and locations, check their website.

Photo & Text Sources: Amazon

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Spoiled Milk

In the early 90s, a group called Neutral Milk Hotel formed. There's a total of four members, but the main and steady guy is Jeff Mangum. Pretty much he roamed around experimenting with loads of different projects. He had a band here with a friend, then he went and played with another friend somewhere else. He'd record a few songs with one idea in mind, then switch to a totally different idea and project.

While I was reading up on Mangum, I found an article through their website. It was written back in '96 by Phil McMullen.

"It was January in Denver, freezing cold and snowing all over. I moved into a friend's house and was living in a closet and it was cold, not only because of the weather but because it was a haunted house. The closet I was living in was haunted. The person that lived in the house kept having dreams of people having ****tail parties in my closet. There would always be these really beautiful women in really tacky fur coats drinking champagne and telling my friend that we should get the **** out of their party because we were really pissing them off . . . "

Mangum suffered from night terrors, and I've heard that he would stay up entire nights working on his music and sometimes singing the songs to the ghosts. So, I suppose you really can find inspiration anywhere.

Their first album On Avery Island, was the first formality that Mangum had had out there. This was in 1996 and also when the band became more serious, and they relocated to New York.

Two years later, In the Aeroplane over the Sea was released. This is the album that I own, as I'm not familiar with their first. For some odd reason, I've always been a little bit fascinated by the Holocaust, and the story of Anne Frank. So, I was surprised to learn that Neutral Milk Hotel's second release was sort of based on that period.

"In the Aeroplane over the Sea is notable as a critically acclaimed work and a widely popular recording. It is a spiritually motivated work conceptually based on the beauty to be found in the horrific fate of Anne Frank. During live performances, Mangum has described some of the songs off this album as based on urgent, recurring dreams he had of a Jewish family during World War II. The album was highly praised by critics for its wildly inventive instrumentation and Mangum's provocative and impassioned lyrics. Although it met with scant response from the general public when it was released, the recording has continued to gain momentum in indie music circles, selling well over 100,000 copies, according to Merge Records."

And, from an article by Taylor Clark for Slate Magazine:

"As he told a Puncture magazine interviewer before Aeroplane's release, "I would go to bed every night and have dreams about having a time machine and somehow I'd have the ability to move through time and space freely, and save Anne Frank. Do you think that's embarrassing?" The songs and lyrics he started writing about Frank could be so nightmarish in vision that Mangum grew afraid of what was issuing from his brain: verses about "pianos filled with flames" and eating "tomatoes and radio wires." At times, he seems possessed, singing on Aeroplane's title track, "Anna's ghost all around/ Hear her voice as it's rolling and ringing through me."

The last time Jeff Mangum performed live was back in 2001 in New Zealand. The band has long been on hiatus, though all of the members still work with each other through other various projects. Also, the other members still have material out there in different groups. Julian Koster, who played the accordion and banjo, now plays with The Music Tapes. Scott Spillane who plays guitar and trumpet, now can be heard with The Gerbils. Drummer Jeremy Barnes with A Hawk and a Hacksaw.

Famous fans of Neutral Milk Hotel include Franz Ferdinand and Arcade Fire (which I thought was quite cool, since I am a fan of them, and I've learned that NMH has influenced their music).

As for a comeback, no one knows for sure, but it seems to be unlikely. Mangum ends his '96 interview with this quote:

"I'd really like to settle down myself, because I haven't had a home in a long time. I'd like to try and find a home and sit there for awhile and record, becuase I really miss those days when I could just go to my room and make music. I still have the opportunity to record and I still have the opportunity to write songs but I kinda want to get to be old recording. I want to explore all the things I can get down on tape and see what happens. I like to work slow, to think about what I'm doing and feel what I'm doing. I'm just making music and that's where it ends."

Since that was said over a decade ago, many wonder what happened to the indie-pysch-folk-rock musician. Unfortunately, once the world started to catch on to the brilliance of Mangum and Neutral Milk Hotel, it was a bit too late. He'd grown tired; tired of touring and tired of talking. He began to withdraw and even declined an invite to play with R.E.M. He has not done any interviews since '98 except for one. And that one was in 2002 with Pitchfork Media. In it he explains a little bit about what he was feeling and his reasoning for not continuing down the path of success. That reasoning dealt with how he mistakenly thought his words and music would help to save the world, and make everyone happy. It wasn't until he realized most everyone was still in some sort of pain, that he felt inadequate in some way. It is sad that he feels that way, since his music has helped and encouraged many people in times of need. Perhaps since he's traveled the world, and even spent some time in a monastery, his new outlooks will give him the strength he needs to come back for an encore.

*Read what MANY have to say about Jeff Mangum and NMH in Pitchfork Media's article written back in February, here.

Sources: Slate Magazine, Creative Loafing, Neutral Milk Hotel, Amazon, Pitchfork Media, Captains Dead

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Clickity Clack - Ratatat-tat!

Ratatat formed back in 2004 when two college students wrote and recorded an entire instrumental album on a laptop.

I am actually having a really hard time finding the words to describe their music. It's a little bit like Daft Punk, but with no words. In 2004 and 2007 Ratatat came out with Ratatat Remixes (Vol. 1 and 2), where the music is a bit more dancified and adds some hip-hop. Not only do they remix some rap, but in 2005 they did a remix of The Shout Out Louds "The Comeback"...have you heard the original or the remix? I'm a fan.

Mike Gelberg describes Ratatat a bit better than I could in his article over at kevchino.com. He also reviews their brand new album LP3 that just came out on Tuesday.

I am excited because Ratatat is actually coming here for a performance in the end of August. So, if you're in the Pittsburgh area, you clearly, definitely should check it out! All the info for the time, date, place and tickets is right here.

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Three Artists. One Song.

I have nothing prepared for this week...for 2 reasons:

1. It's been a crazy week, and if you only knew...you'd understand.

2. The holiday

But, as usual, if you have any recommendations, let me know...

Oh, you know what was cool? Last weekend a group of my friends and I did a Summer Open (mini golf tournament) benefitting Cerebral Palsy. And my friend made us all a cd that she named "Mini Golf Megamix". How excited was I to get a sweet new cd, instead of me making and handing them out! HA!

Before I leave, I do have a song recommendation! It's called "My Drive Thru" and it's a huuuuge collaboration between Pharrel Williams, Santogold, and Julian Casablancas. Makes you curious, doesn't it? ANDDDD, if you want, which I know you do -- you can download it for FREE here.

Photo Source: Contagious Magazine

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Viva la Coldplay

Did anyone go out and buy Coldplay's new album last week? Well, I have it! And, I have to say that I am impressed. Not because Coldplay isn't good or anything, but because I'd heard it was different; in more of a rock sense than say...adult contemporary.

I've loved Coldplay's past albums, but I've also had to be in a certain mood to listen to them. They're not something you want to listen to on your morning commute and trying to stay awake.

From Wikipedia:

"Coldplay's early material was compared to acts such as Jeff Buckley, U2, and Travis. Since the release of Parachutes, Coldplay have drawn influence from other sources, including Echo and the Bunnymen, Kate Bush and George Harrison on A Rush of Blood to the Head, Johnny Cash and Kraftwerk for X&Y and Arcade Fire and My Bloody Valentine on Viva la Vida."

Hmmm...okay, I can hear a little bit of Jeff Buckley, especially in earlier albums. But Kate Bush, and My Bloody Valentine? Not so much. Besides, I think Coldplay has a wide enough audience now that there is no need for comparisons. Their current music sales rank on Amazon is #1.

Anyways, Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends has a bit of the slower rock you're used to, mixed in with a bunch more lively percussion and guitar riffs. On a poll from Coldplaying.com, listeners' most favorite track is "Viva la Vida", with the last song from the album (also a title track) "Death and All His Friends (The Escapist)" coming in second. Personally, I'd say my favorite is "Lost!" or "Strawberry Swing", it's too hard to decide between the two.

The band started working on this album back in 2006. So, since it's been said that their next album will be released late next year, I think it's safe to bet that they're on a recording streak. It'll be fun to hear what's on the next album.

Photo and Text Sources: Wikipedia, Coldplaying, Amazon

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Put Another Record on the Jukebox

Everything that I've read about Jukebox the Ghost compares them to the same 3 bands: Queen, Ben Folds Five, They Might be Giants.

Okay, the main reason anyone says Ben Folds is because of the amazing piano melodies throughout their songs. And while I can see where they get the other 2 comparisons, I don't really think it's relevant. Queen is good, but old school. Jukebox is new and divine.

Their best known single is "Good Day", the first off their album Let Live and Let Ghosts. "Did everybody say what a good day that it was for everybody who said what a good day that it was...". "It's got a repetitive piano tune playing in the back that makes me imagine myself in some kind of scene from a movie. Like, where I'm driving in my car, and then rushing through crowds of people in the city. Then, "Whoops!!" there goes my purse, spilling important contents all over. Clumsy misfortunes happen, but I lock eyes with a hottie. We look back at each other, sort of foreshadowing what's to come and "BAM!", I am having a good day!

As I was writing the beginning of this, I looked up their album on Amazon. You know how on Amazon it'll always say, "Buy this, plus that, for one great price!" and they match up what you looked up with something similar they think you'll enjoy? Well, funnily enough, Vampire Weekend popped into my head while writing about and listening to this band. And, on Amazon, they've somehow entered my brain and matched up Jukebox the Ghost with Vampire Weekend! Crazy, right?! Ha!

Anyways, if you fancy uppity songs with pianos (I do!!!) then check out Jukebox the Ghost.

I like how Canadian Audiophile summed it up by saying, "All in all, Let Live and Let Ghosts is an exciting album filled with remarkably sunny and alluring sing-along-pop righteousness. Thornewill, Siegel, and Kristin are a taut unit who seem born to deliver records like this."

Photo and Text Sources: Amazon, Canadian Audiophile

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Got a Light?

The Matches are a band straight outta Cali, that have been doing their thing for over 10 years now.

They wanted to be called, "The Locals", and they were...for a while. 'Til Yvonne Doll, the frontwoman for a Chicago band called "The Locals", contacted the band and asked that they change their name. *sigh*

What is really funny though, is this:

"Eventually, under the new name "The Matches", they self-released their debut album, E. Von Dahl Killed the Locals (this was assumed as an effort to publicly resent Yvonne Doll while avoiding libel)."

HA!!! That is awesome, right?!

Soon afterwards, they got a contract with Epitaph Records, who they still work with now. The record company re-leased their first album in 2004. I didn't know about any of this until now, though.

See, I heard a new song off their newest (and third!) album A Band in Hope, called "Wake the Sun". It's a catchy tune, the chorus will most definitely get stuck in your head. It also sounds like something you will hear in a movie soundtrack sometime soon, too. BUT, nonetheless, I like it. It's enjoyable and quite happy.

Anyways, after looking into what The Matches are all about, I found that they have shared the stage with quite an impressive bunch. They've performed with Lit, Yellowcard, Less Than Jake, Reel Big Fish, MXPX, and Motion City Soundtrack! And have you ever heard that song "Hot Topic is not Punk Rock" by MC Lars? Yup, they even helped out working on that song!

Their latest album that I mentioned above, came out back in March this year. Though, it was leaked a month too early.

From band's lead vocalist Shawn Harris' blog:

"By chance, today marks the official unofficial CD release party of our new album A Band In Hope! It has leaked. The tiger is out of the ziplock."

Check out The Matches website for everything you could possibly want to know.

Text & Photo Sources: Wikipedia, Amazon, Heavy Breeding, Starpulse

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Rrrrroooaaarrr!!!

Have you heard Republic Tigers' "Buildings and Mountains"? It is a super good song. I actually just heard it yesterday, but it's made an impression. So, check it out. They're a band from Kansas City. The song actually started getting airplay on radios out in Kansas back in 2006. But, I think now they are going to get much, much more recognition. It also helps that they were just on The Late Show with David Letterman about two weeks ago. Their self-titled album came out at the end of 2007, but still I hope to hear more from them.

Also, tons of good new cd's are coming out next week. Remember The Wallflowers? Well, front man Jakob Dylan's got his own new album out called Seeing Things. "Something Good This Way Comes" is a goodie.

Tha Carter III from Lil Wayne is another one I've heard buzz about. I have a few friends that have been waiting a long time for that one.

Other albums to get excited about that came out THIS week:

Ladytron - Velocifero

The Futureheads - This is not the World

The Ting Tings - We Started Nothing

Oh, and high guy Afroman's Greatest Hitz Live, too. I'm still a little bit confused on how he has Greatest Hits, or enough to make a full album, but whatever. Go 'head Afroman!

Photo Source: Club Spaceland

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List of a List

I apologize for my absense last week, if anyone by chance did notice. And honestly, I am very low on time again this week. But, instead of a 2 week disappearance, I thought I'd at least show up and tell ya a few songs to listen to. (Maybe if I were getting paid for this (*hint* to anyone) I'd make more of an effort. Maybe.)

So, let's do this:

1. UNKLE (feat. Josh Homme) - Restless (Electronic/Rock)

2. Flobots - Handlebars (Alt/Hip-Hop)

3. M83 - Graveyard Girl (Indie Rock)

4. Jackie Green - Never Satisfied (Blues)

5. Moby - Disco (Dance)

6. The Teenagers - Homecoming (Indie/College Rock)

7. Sam Sparro - Black and Gold (Dance)

8. The Black Keys - Strange Times (Rock)

Alright, that's it for now! Off to prepare for my book signing tomorrow! Have an awesome weekend!

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Cut, Copy, Paste

Let me start out by saying that I had this article almost all written, and I was really pleased, until the computer sneezed. Now, I am starting over and I can only hope it will be as good as the one I just had. (GRRRRR!!!)

So, without further adieu --

Around a year or so ago, I was hearing a lot of mixes by a group called "Cut Copy". Liking what I was hearing, I looked into more about them and their music. I am so glad I did, because now they've got a spot in my Top 5. Top 5 what, you ask? I suppose...ummm, my Top 5 anything music related. Though, if you asked me to rattle off my Top 5 right now, I'm sure I'd have different answers next week. NOT because I would have changed my mind about loving Cut Copy, but because I kind of have a lot of favorites.

Anyways, when I first became a big fan, their only album out was Bright Like Neon Love, which came out in 2004. Two of my favorite tracks on it are "Time Stands Still" and "Saturdays". So, naturally I was ecstatic when I'd heard a few months ago they were coming out with their 2nd album.

Cool cover art, right? Well, over at Lost At E Minor the idea was asked about:

"How was the album artwork conceptualised? ‘When we came to thinking about the album cover art, we wanted something photographic, rather than creating graphics. However, we also wanted something that was a bit colourful, a bit strange and that would be striking and interesting to look at. So we came up with the idea of photographing ourselves and then projecting the photos onto ourselves with colours and lights also projected. We ended up really pleased with the end result.'"

Now, In Ghost Colours is climbing up the charts. If you haven't heard the trio's new single "Lights and Music", keep your ears clean and I'm sure you will. If you like it, and you check out their MySpace and like that, too...buy the album! You won't regret it, I promise. This indie dance pop rock album has songs that flow beautifully and transcend into one another without giving you a migraine.

The track titled, "Out There on the Ice" very subtly resembles New Young Pony Club's "Ice Cream" in the very beginning. And it's no wonder because both bands (along with many other greats) are signed on record label Modular Recordings. And "Strangers in the Wind" has a familiarity to it, too. Not in a bad knock-off kind of way either. I couldn't exactly put my finger on it until I read Pitchfork's review where they say, "The carefree "Strangers in the Wind", whose lazy verse and torpid guitar peels owe a little bit to Fleetwood Mac."

Some of the songs are more dreamy, some are more eighties, but no matter what they all make you want to dance in some way or another. In an interview from Something Glorious, the band's frontman Dan Whitford says, "It's interesting because ever since I first started DJing I can see dance and indie music growing closer and closer together. Ten years ago, house was always so commercial in the ways that it sounded and was marketed and almost anti the whole indie vibe and vice versa. Daft Punk was like this huge breath of fresh air into that scene and things have gotten steadily more creative and integrated between dance and rock music. Now in Melbourne you see all the same kids at rock shows as you do at dance parties and that never happened back in the day. It's great really - 'cos I've always loved both dance and rock stuff. I think it's a healthy thing for the two to meet in the middle."

Photo and Text Sources: Lost at E Minor, Pitchfork Media, Something Glorious

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We've Struck Gold!

NOT to be confused with Santo Gold, an infomercial king that sells fake gold, Santogold is a nickname given to Santi White. From an interview on Trash Menagerie, she explains, "It was a nickname that I got when I was younger cuz I used to wear these huge gold name earrings. My friend who made it up said she got it off an infomercial for cheap gold, and that was it."

Santi first went to Wesleyan University and studied drums, particularly Caribbean and West African. Before she moved to Brooklyn, she lived in Philly, where she was the lead singer for the band Stiffed. After doing that for awhile, she pursued a solo career. Just last year, she appeared on Mark Ronson's album with a cover of The Jam's "Pretty Green".

With her former bandmate John Hill, who has co-producing credits, Santogold now has come out with her long awaited self titled debut album. And believe it this time when you hear that this is a sound you haven't heard before. It's got reggae, punk, electronica, eighties, and dub all mixed together! I've heard not much else but rave reviews, too. Hypebeast says, "In fact her soaring catchy choruses and her firm grasp on solid song writing seems to be spearheading a new musical trend that combines pop melody with indie sensibilities." You can't tell me that doesn't sound exciting! Also, Rolling Stone has named Santogold an artist to keep your eye on this year. I mean, even Kanye likes her! Plus, she's already toured with Björk and worked with Lily Allen. I've heard tons of comparisons to M.I.A., who she's also toured with, but I don't see it. Maybe a little bit, but personally I like Santogold better. I instantly liked her music, where with M.I.A. it took a little while for a few of her songs to grow on me and even then I don't like all of her work.

The album's first single, "Creator" has been heard in new Bud Light commercials, and on the show Gossip Girl. Her songs have also been featured in HBO's Entourage and ABC's Grey's Anatomy. And my favorite track, "You'll Find A Way," appears in the FIFA 08 video game. If you haven't heard her yet, give her MySpace page (of course!) a looksie by clicking here.

Photo and Text Sources: Trash Menagerie, Wikipedia, Hypebeast, Amazon

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Spice It Up, But No Sneezing

Bret Bollinger and Kaleo Wassman from Hawaii came together in 1996 and began to form a band we now know as Pepper. After trying out some different drummers, they've stuck with Yesod Williams since the end of the '90s. It was then that they relocated to sunny California where they were opening acts for big reggae shows including Shaggy.

After some more hard work, their debut album Give'N It came out, ultimately getting the trio a spot in 2001's Warped Tour. In March of the next year, they released their second album Kona Town, which highlights their talents in the reggae, dub, and rock genres. Their song titled "Give it Up" was released as a single, and for the next two years they toured with acts like 311 and Slightly Stoopid.

It was sometime around there that I became familiar with Pepper, replaying Kona Town over and over. The island beats are great in the summertime, and my friends and I took pride in knowing that not too many others knew about this precious, hidden gem.

In With the Old, their third album, came out in March of 2004. With this newest collection of songs, Pepper continued to please while showing they can do even more than originally thought. Not only were you hearing reggae and dub, but now some heavier rock, a little 80's pop, and ska were found in their tracks.

In July of 2005, I was ecstatic to hear they were coming to town. I went with a group of friends to see them along with O.A.R. We had a really awesome time, and it still is one of the best and most fun concerts I've ever attended. The year after, in August, Pepper headlined the annual Jagermeister Music Tour with Slightly Stoopid through December 2006. Unfortunately, I didn't make it to that one. Having become a fan of Stoopid's, naturally I was upset when a couple of my friends told me all about it.

Next came No Shame, in 2006. This is their first major label album release with their most known track being "No Control". Yet, the best just might be yet to come though in July, with Pink Crustacean's and Good Vibrations set to be released on their own label Law Records. I have already gotten to hear one of their new songs that has never been heard! How, you ask? Well, because just on Monday I went to see them again. It was ridiculously more sweet than the first time I saw their show. Not only do they mix it up with old faves and new soon-to-be faves, they also connect with their audience. And it didn't hurt when they added a little Pennywise's "Bro Hymn" to get the party started. They're touring around the country through next month, not as an opener but as a HEADLINER with Red Eye Empire and Iration. Then, they'll be with Flogging Molly (!!!!!) over in Europe.

Though I do love all of their albums, I do have to say that Kona Town is still my favorite. Even once I've got it down to my favorite album, it's impossible for me to choose my favorite song. Though, for tons of fans, a favorite is "Stormtrooper", which you're likely to hear request for at a show. If you've never heard Pepper, give Kona Town a listen first. Then, I'm sure you'll want to hear the other albums, but make sure you also check out Slightly Stoopid.

(I do have some video footage from Monday, so I will update when I am able to get it on here.)

Photo & Text Sources: Wikipedia, Pepper, Amazon, Silverback Management, Myself

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Matt and Kim

Get even five seconds of a listen to Matt and Kim and you'll probably feel exceedingly cheery. Not only are their songs therepeutic in a "high on life" kind of way, but Matt and Kim themselves are two genuinely happy people.

You know why I think I like them so much? Because they call their concerts an "onstage pizza party" according to an article in The Daily Orange. Pizza parties, dance parties, I am there! My favorite kinds of parties!

Anyways, hmmm now I'm hungry.

Okay, back on track. Matt and Kim started out three years ago when they met and started dating at Brooklyn's Pratt Institute. Consisting of just two people and two instruments, Matt and Kim have surprised even themselves with their popularity. Their self-titled album came out late 2006. So, they're not fresh outta the bag, but they have only grown like bread yeast rising. It started with the two of them just messing and playing around at their apartment. Next thing you know, they're playing at house parties, and then touring all over the place!

Though I await the day for them to pop into my town, I have heard they put on a tiptop, energizing show. In the article I mentioned earlier, Kim says, "shows should be just like a big party, why else would you go to a concert?"

I haven't heard a song of theirs yet that I don't really like. If I did have to choose only one, I think I would say, "Hey, you should give 'Silver Tiles' a listen!" Access their MySpace page here.

OH, and I wanted to mention - If you happen to be in Las Vegas this weekend, OR are like my best friend and LIVE there...you should definitely check out their Indie Rock Wars this weekend at Lake Las Vegas.

Curious to know who'll be playing? Check out the 20 bands right here.

Photo and Text Sources: Amazon, The Daily Orange, Black Mountain Productions

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Hoosier Daddy?

The Hoosiers came out with their debut album last year, called The Trick to Life. It's an indie pop rock album, from three guys that formed a band that used to be known as The Hoosier Complex.

Under their Wikipedia entry it says, "the band claims to create a sound that they call 'we want to be indie but we're not cool enough', combining a number of musical genres." Some of the band's influences include The Cure, The Flaming Lips, and Jeff Buckley. "Worried about Ray" is their first hit single, even though they've caught some slack for it resembling The Turtles' song "Happy Together".

The band's next single also did very well. "Goodbye Mr. A" appears in the game FIFA 08. Taking their coolness further, two of the members are seen playing the video game in the band's music video. AND, the song is also in a trailer for the super awesome movie "Juno".

An article from RCA describes The Hoosiers as "Funky, catchy, and oh-so radio friendly they sound like the Kooks and Franz Ferdinand having a montage moment in an 80s film of their night out." I love that sentence because I love the Kooks and FF. That sentence just sounds like a wild, fun party! To me, the band even remind me a little bit of fellow newcomers "Vampire Weekend". But, if you want to read a humorous and entertaining article while learning more about the trio, read the RCA one I just mentioned here.

Now the band is back from their tour in the UK with their fourth single from The Trick to Life. The third is "Worst Case Scenario" but the newest track "Cops and Robbers" is set to "officially" be released on Monday. It's a pretty cool tune. In fact, I think they all are.

Photo and Text Sources: Wikipedia,RCA, Amazon, There Goes the Fear

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A Little Bit of Jack

Jack Allsopp was born to dance. In England, he grew up listening to various forms of dance music, and eventually getting in DJing at the age of 15. In 2002, he officially became Just Jack, with his first album The Outer Marker. It did well by getting good reviews, but it didn't get him too far off the ground.

Until 2007, when he came out with his 2nd album Overtones. Released in September last year, Just Jack has become a phenomenon in the UK. His most popular track "Starz in Their Eyes" was #2 on the UK charts last year, and the song has definitely put Jack on the map. The songs also featured in the Dolce Gabbana Summer 2008 fashion show. Jack also collaborates with Kylie Minogue on Overtones with a song called "I Talk Too Much".

Fun tidbit from Wikipedia:

It's believed his name was taken from fictional stage show of the character Jack McFarland from Will & Grace.

I believe when I first heard Just Jack, it was right before the album was officially released. Naturally, "Starz in Their Eyes" was the first song of his that I heard. Liking it a lot, I went and downloaded "Writer's Block" and "Glory Days" which coincidentally are next on the popularity list.

And, just last weekend I purchased the CD. I figured, "Wow, I really liked listening to him, and I am sure I'll like all of the songs, so why not?" I was right! It's filled with beats, pop, rap, electro; a little bit of everything. So, unless you're a hairband rocker (...Um, no offense?) you'll probably find something to dance to on this album. Don't be scared...it's Just Jack.

Photos and Text Sources: Wikipedia, Amazon, Music Remedy, Plong

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That Tingles!

I'm driving to work one morning hoping to hear something good when I stop on a band called "The Ting Tings".

Usually I'm not all coffee-ed up enough yet to listen to something so upbeat, but I liked this! It was a Calvin Harris remix, and we know I like Calvin Harris!

The song is called "Great DJ" and I expect to be hearing more of it! And so should you, if you haven't already. They were at this years much talked about SXSW Festival held in Austin, Texas.

All it is is a boy, and a girl. Spin Magazine calls frontwoman Katie White "pure spunk", and says "Jules De Martino rocks rhythms skinny-jean clean, while a little cowbell, plunky key jabs craft a DIY chime."

After reading up a little more, I find that Katie White used to sing in a little known, short-lived girl band by the name of TKO. I have heard TKO, "hear it on the radiooo!" Standing for "Total Knock Out," White and her two friends never released an album.

Jules De Martino was in a few other bands and met Katie while she was still with TKO. But, not too long after, the two of them developed Dear Eskiimo.

I haven't heard enough of The Ting Tings yet, and I'd like to hear more. Other than "Great DJ" I like their first single, "That's Not My Name". They're kind of a big deal over in the UK, but I'm sure they will be here soon, too. Their album, We Started Nothing, will be available in the UK in May, but the release date here in the States is still TBA.

For now, head to their MySpace page and take a listen.

Photo and text sources: Spin Magazine, Wikipedia

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Mini-Va-KAY

Ahhh, I am terribly sorry I have nothing good for you this week!

It's been seriously crazy busy in my world this week. Between picking up relatives at the airport (we won't talk about the first trip I made...12 hours too early!!!!), talking book marketing business, and mucho business in general, I just didn't have enough time to devote what you deserve.

So, rather than post up something crappy and risk enduring reader's rage, I'm just going to slink away until next time.

BUT, feel free to email me what YOU'VE been listening to at heatherfrazier@enterto.com

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Everybody Nose about Pharrell

So, a few weeks ago I was checking out what bands would be playing in the area. To my extreme disappointment Cobra Starship and Metro Station were sold out, BUT I did notice that N.E.R.D. and Pharrell were coming soon.

I told some friends and a group of us decided it'd be quite fun to go. I'm really not the hugest fan of them, I'm not going to lie. I like a couple of the songs, but it didn't really matter one way or another if I went to the show.

Well, last night I was pleasantly surprised. But, that was after I stood out in the freezing rain for probably an hour even though we already had our tickets. Then, since it was an all ages show, you couldn't have drinks in the downstairs area in front of the stage. So, the majority of the people were upstairs. It was a huge mess until we found our perfect spot. Right behind the guys that work all the lighting for the show. It was then that I finally could breathe easy and enjoy myself. And enjoy myself is exactly what I did. They put on a great show and everyone was going nuts! At one point, Pharrell invited some girls on the stage to dance along and it was hilarious watching them, "I looooove youuuu Pharrell!!!" I was waiting for bras to go flying, actually.

The two songs that I enjoyed most are "Lapdance" which is a couple years old, but definitely the most known. Also, they performed their newest track "Everybody Nose", which will be on N.E.R.D.'s new album due out later this year.

In Rolling Stone's Smoking Section, he said:

“It’s like auditory Red Bull,” sitting behind a console at Electric Lady studios in Manhattan before introducing the new N.E.R.D. track “Everybody Nose,” which clocks in at a breakneck pace of 140 beats per minute. “This song’s about when all the hot chicks disappear from the dinner table — you know where they’re going.” The new N.E.R.D. disc, Seeing Sounds — their first in four years — features a cut about attention-deficit disorder (”Anti-Matter”) plus “Spaz,” which will certainly inspire clubgoers to spaz.

I have videos from both of those song performances, but my computer has been reaaaalllllllllllly slow when I've tried to upload them. I think it's just my crappy computer. But, I will try to get them posted on here over the weekend for your enjoyment!

EDIT***Okay, I have tried endlessly to put the videos on here with the whole screen shot and everything, BUT for SOME UNKNOWN reason to man, it won't show up after I've saved the edits.

So, I'm just going to put the link here, and you can go check 'em out if you want.

Sources: Rolling Stone Magazine

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Hearts Race in Helsinki

Once upon a time, a trio of guys came together as members in a band of called The Pixel Mittens. Shortly after, they all moved from the country of Victoria, to Finland. There, they played a couple of small gigs before going on a hiatus. Never did The Pixel Mittens return.

Member Cameron Bird met a man named James Cecil while in art school. Soon after, Cecil joined the group as their drummer. Bird also met a clarinet player, Kellie Sutherland, whom he also invited to play. Not long after, Bird embarked on a trip to Portland, Oregon. It was there that he was struck with such profound inspiration. Upon his return, he met three more new members to complete the band. Now, the original trio turned into a group of eight: Cameron Bird, Gus Franklin, Jamie Mildren, Sam Perry, Kellie Sutherland, Isobel Knowles, Tara Shackell and James Cecil. With Bird's new interpretation of the band's music, he wrote over half of their debut album to be named Fingers Crossed under the band name Architecture in Helsinki.

Two years later, in 2005, the band released their second album under their own label. In Case We Die was also produced by The Carboyhydrates, a production duo company held up by the band's own members Cecil and Bird. The next year, Isobel Knowles and Tara Shackell left the band due to "creative differences." Later in the year, an album of remixes emerged. We Died, They Remixed includes remixed versions of In Case We Die's entire album. One of the artists that helped with the mixes is Hot Chip, whose newest song "Ready For the Floor" has been getting a lot of play.

In July of last year, Architecture in Helsinki released their newest album Places Like This. Their first single "Heart it Races" was released 2 months before the album, and was nominated for an ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) award. It is probably the most indie pop record they've released yet. All of the songs on all of their albums incorporate tons of different musical instruments, including the glockenspiel, which makes for quite the ecletic mix.

Now, I'll tell you my favorite song from each album (haha). Let's see, first we've got Fingers Crossed, and my fave from that album is "Scissor Paper Rock." Next comes In Case We Die, and from that one I like "Maybe You Can Owe Me." Last, from Places Like This, I really enjoy "Heart it Races", and "Hold Music."

In October of last year, the band recorded four "vibey, alt versions" of a few songs from Places Like This for Daytrotter. You can download the songs from their website here.

At the band's New Years performance this year, James Cecil announced it to be his last show with the band. Now, they're down to five, but it doesn't seem to be causing any harm. The band is supposedly coming out with some new tracks next month. Let's keep our eyes and ears open!

Photo and Text Sources: Amazon, Wikipedia, My Chemical Toilet

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Screamo

No, I'm not talking about screamo in terms of music. I'm talking about how I've quite a hellish time lately, especially today! I have been super-extremo busy, that I just want to 'screamo'!

That's why I am going to apologize for the lack of information today. What I am going to do, is let you know a few good songs to check out that I've been listening to this week.

1. The Raveonettes

Their new album Lust Lust Lust just came out February 19th. Check out their track "Aly, Walk with Me."

2. Yael Naim

You've heard her on the new Apple iMac commercials. Those Apple people really know good music. Nine out of ten times I have loved whatever song they've used in their commercials for the past few years. Sometimes I worry that they will get too popular or mainstream, but for now, her song "New Soul" is fun and light listening.

3. The Arcade Fire

With this band, it's always kind of been a 'hit or miss' with me. Some songs I love, some...not so much. But, I LOVE LOVE their track "Neighborhood #3 (Power Out)" from their 2004 album Funeral.

4. Metro Station

New to the scene is Metro Station. Their self-titled debut album came out in September of last year. "Shake It" is my favorite song by them by far. It really does make you want to shake it AND puts you in a pretty great mood, also.

I would looooove to list more, but unfortunately I have to get going. Hope this can hold you over! Enjoy!

Photo sources: Amazon

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Observe This!

Ghostland Observatory consists of two passionate musicians, Aaron Behrens and Thomas Ross Turner. Their genre of music is best classified as electronica, but there are big flare ups of rock and soul combined within. On the band's MySpace page, they describe their sound as "A robot making love to a tree!!" In 2005, the duo came out with their first album delete.delete.i. eat. meat. with label Trashy Moped Recordings. Not even a year later, their second album Paparazzi Lightning became available. The track "Sad Sad City" is a favorite from that album.

Last October they appeared on Late Night with Conan O'Brien. A month later they released a DVD of them playing live from Austin, Texas, which is also where they live.

Robotique Majestique, their third record, was originally set for release on March 4th. Lucky us, it's out now, as of Tuesday. Check out their tour schedule here on their website, because if they're playing somewhere near, it is in your best interest to go see what they're all about. I have heard their shows are very fun and keep you moving and shaking. Unfortunately, none of their tour dates are bringing them my way, so I'll just live vicariously through those that can make a show.

March 6th, they'll be in Florida for the Langerado Festival. The festival has a moderately large and impressive lineup, so that's something for you if you need a spontaneous trip to something different and lively.

Hopefully by this time next year, their name will have spread even wider and we'll get to see them do their thing. With such a offbeat sound that what anyone is used to, they are bound to amplify and mystify.

Photo and Text Sources: Amazon, Wikipedia, Langerado, MySpace

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Sucks to be Simone

In 2003, Brooklyn quartet Au Revoir Simone set out on their musical adventure. Just before coming out with their first record in 2005, one of the members left the group. And then there were 3: Annie, Erika and Heather.

"Au Revoir Simone's music would be the perfect soundtrack to an Autumnal picnic in the park..or Virgin Suicides if Air had not been so triumphant with the original score." (Moshi Moshi Records)

"Au Revoir Simone appear onstage like the sisters from The Virgin Suicides - their looks ranging from prim librarian, to hippy housewife to raven-haired art student. They excavate the lost corner, joining Ladytron and Camera Obscura: lush electronic hypno-folk, that breezes from the speakers like chocolate melting over one of Latitude's many £5-a-crepe food stalls." (NME)

Their newest album came out about a year ago. The Bird of Music is a wonderfully crafted dream-pop disc that transports you to a place better than wherever you are right now. Some of the tracks are a little much for me to handle, but that of course is just my opinion, which you know by now I always have to give.

I can't quite remember how I found out about them, but I do remember "Sad Song" being the first I'd heard of Au Revoir Simone. It's still my favorite, though I do enjoy "Night Majestic", "Fallen Snow", and "Dark Halls".

Au Revoir Simone is all over the place, of course including MySpace. Their website has quite a cool setup, too, if you want to check it out you can do so by clicking here.

Text and Photo sources: Minnesota Public Radio, Amazon, NME, Moshi Moshi Records

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Ring My Bell

Irish band Bell X1 is finally getting some of the recognition they deserve. Their first album in the US titled Flock isn't available until the 19th. But, in Ireland this is their 3rd album and Flock was released there way back in 2005!

The band was formerly known as Juniper, led by Damien Rice. Once he left to pursue his solo career, the drummer Paul Noonan stepped up to the plate. That's when he, Brian Crosby, Dominic Philips, and David Geraghty became Bell X1. Their first album with Universal Music Group is called Neither Am I, and came out it 2000. By the time the second album, Music in Mouth, surfaced in 2003, they were becoming better known. It's from that album that you may have heard their widely known track, "Eve, the Apple of My Eye" on television series The O.C..

Now, with their third and latest album, they aren't just any regular Irish band. Since Flock is finally arriving to the States, it's obvious that their hard work is paying off. Last year around this time, the band was touring with The Frames. Just last month, they performed on Late Night with Conan O'Brien. Check out their tour schedule, because they're coming back next month for some shows.

The track you're most likely to hear right now is "Rocky Took a Lover." My interest in Bell X1 grew after hearing this song. Especially when you've got lyrics like, "You're such an asshole when you're drunk," and "If there was a God then why is my ass the perfect height for kicking," both of which immediately caused me to burst into laughter.

What I thought was entertaining was the story behind "Rocky Took a Lover." It's actually about a homeless guy.

From The Sunday Business Post:

"The song documents the life of a homeless man Noonan knew when he lived in Smithfield with Crosby.

Every day, Noonan would look out of his window and see Rocky, a former boxer, who slept in the laneway behind their house.

‘‘He was a courteous, funny guy when sober, but a monster when he was drunk,” Noonan says. One morning, my flatmate looked out the window, and Rocky had scored. He was there with a lady.

‘‘When they got up, Rocky set up a mirror on an electricity box in the laneway, and shaved. He was obviously making an effort. It was very sweet.”

You can even read a ton of Rocky's stories on Bell X1's website.

Other noteworthy songs from Flock are "Flame", "Bigger than Me", and "Reacharound." Though, I'm pretty sure this is one of those albums where you won't have many complaints about any of the songs. Oh, and if you want to, you can 'flock' on over to Amazon and pre-order Flock here.

Also, I almost forgot, Happy Valentine's Day. Hope you "took a lover" somewhere...not 'Rocky'? That might not work out well, just like my inexcusable attempt at a joke. Sorry.

Sources: Wikipedia, The Sunday Business Post, Amazon, Snag

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Do You Have Prince Albert in a Can?

I've been a fan of Albert Hammond, Jr. for at least a year now. But, it came as a complete surprise to me to find out that he's also a member of The Strokes! (The same thing happened to me when I got into Thom Yorke and found out -- 'Hey! Radiohead!' And with both times, after knowing, it becomes SO obvious!) He mostly plays rhythm guitar with the band, but one song he does lead in happens to be one of my favorites, "Last Nite."

His debut album Yours to Keep was released in the UK in the late 2006. Here, we got it in March of 2007. Many music artists appear on the album with him, including Sean Lennon and Ben Kweller. What a coincidence, I've been playing the hell out of "Sundress" by Kweller lately. The record is definitely a goodie and some of his songs have been featured on popular tv shows. Most recently, "Hard to Live in the City" was heard on the show "Gossip Girl." It's got the whole rock n' roll thing goin' on along with some sunshine. Some say that his music isn't far enough away from The Strokes, but I disagree.

Favorite tracks from the album are "Everyone Gets a Star", "101", and "Hard to Live in the City". "101" was the first song I heard, and I loved it! If you haven't checked out Yours to Keep, give it a sample and see if you like. Reason being that he's supposedly coming out with a second album around April this year.

Sources: Wikipedia, Amazon

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Not So Much Slacking, Anymore

It's always very weird to me when actors or celebs start a band project. I don't know why that is. I think maybe deep down I think actors should stick to what they know and has been proven successful. That way, the musically talented have a shot.

You know, like how Paris Hilton did her own record. Being a famous socialite that's ridiculously rich wasn't enough? You gotta bust in the music scene, too? That kind of thing.

But, with LA based Coconut Records, I don't mind so much. You remember the movie "Slackers"?

Yeah, the guy on the far left that played the kooky psycho? That's Jason Schwartzman, the one and only fellow behind everything concerning Coconut Records. Well, except for producing and stuff like that. The song and album title Nighttiming is definitely my favorite, and should be a party favorite, as well. "Minding My Own Business" is another good one out of all 12 tracks, too.

Some really interesting stuff though, is that Schwartzman's last musical adventure was with Phantom Planet. Jason formed that band back in '94 where he wrote some songs and banged some drums. I'm a fan of Planet, too, and until I looked up more info on Coconut Records, I didn't know he was a part of either!

It gets even better. Phantom Planet's song "California" was the theme song to television show The O.C. The O.C. was my favorite show! Then, Coconut Records also had a song on the show. Their "West Coast" song, which has gotten a lot of feedback and airtime, was used in the show's very last episode. It's all a crazy coincidence!

Anyways, Nighttiming was released in March of last year through Young Baby Records, but sales are still going pretty well. At this exact moment, there's only one left in stock on Amazon (but, don't worry, more are coming in stock this weekend)! The album has a great mix of slow and upbeat songs. No wonder it's called Coconut Records, because they kind of make you think of hanging out with friends at a beach house.

P.S. I'm not sure what's goin' on at Amie St., but it's looking like you can get the whole Nighttiming album for free by signing up (which also seems to be FREE)! Check it out and let me know!

Text and Photo sources: Songslide, Young Baby Records, Soundtrack Collector, Stranded in Stereo

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The Rundown

I've been hearing a lot about the new album releases this week. Now, I don't know if there's a reason for that or if I have just been paying more attention than usual. Or, maybe with the whole writer's strike, people have been tuning in to music more than usual for entertainment. Hmmm, whatever.

Anyways, I don't have one specific band to write about today. Today, I'm going to just kind of give a rundown of a couple of the new releases and my brief opinion on them. Keep in mind, it's only an opinion! So, let's get on with it!

The beautiful and photogenic Cat Power has a ton of fans and publicity at the moment. I think I've heard and seen more advertisements for her new album Jukebox than any of the others. The music has kind of an old feel to it. Well, I guess her genre description of lo-fi and folk would explain it. While I understand why many people enjoy the sound, it just doesn't do it for me. Almost, but not really.

Vampire Weekend's self titled album on the other hand, is really fun! Their first song I heard (also the first track on the album) was "Mansard Roof." I honestly didn't pay very much attention to it. Nothing stuck out, I guess you could say. It wasn't until I heard "A-Punk" that I thought differently. It caught my attention! Now, instead of thinking they were just another "so-so" band, I think they're great after giving them another chance. Though all of their songs are quite short, other favorites from the album are "Oxford Comma" and "Walcott." Also, they use bad words and talk about Cape Cod a lot.

Uh oh. It wasn't until after I was done raving about Vampire Weekend that I realized their album isn't released until NEXT Tuesday, the 29th. Oh well, at least I gave ya the heads up! Go grab it!

If you're a fan of Matt Costa's debut album Songs We Sing, you won't be disappointed with Unfamiliar Faces. Or, if you don't know because you haven't heard any of his stuff, think Jack Johnson. Both work together and are great friends and supporters of each other's music. Also, Costa is under label Brushfire Records, which is co-founded by Johnson. Though it's not on this album, "Lullaby" is a good duet featuring the two of them. It appears on Jack Johnson's Curious George album. I do like Matt's jams, but it's one of those "sit back and relax" and maybe "throw in some pretend guitar" kind of albums. But, there's nothing wrong with that.

That's all I got for today. But, an added note: MGMT's new album Oracular Spectacular which I wrote about awhile ago (here) has finally been released, too!

Text and Photo Sources: Amazon, Ace Showbiz

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Awww, Bunny!

You might be familiar with the term "White Rabbits," a superstition originating from England. It is when you speak the phrase on the first of every month for good luck. I know that my family, being from England, we try to remember to say it. Now, those words have another meaning. It's also a pretty cool and fairly new band.

I'm embarassed to admit that White Rabbits were actually playing with The Walkmen here in Pittsburgh just last night, and I missed it. What's worse, is that I hear they are killer live and put on an energizing show. I know it's pretty lame I missed out, but what can ya do? At least I can admit my wrong in the situation.

Their 11 track spirited debut album Fort Nightly was released through indie label Say Hey Records in May of 2007. It seems that their song "The Plot," is a more known track, especically since they performed it on The Late Show with David Letterman. Although, I'd have to say "Dinner Party" would be my favorite pick. Last year, they toured with Tokyo Police Club and The Pogues (awesome)! Oh, and how could I have forgotten Peter Bjorn & John, too! Also, this year so far, they've been hanging out with The Walkmen. The 6 member cleverly cool band uses multiple instruments throughout the album giving an inventive sound. Sometimes they even sing in multi-tonal unison which is most noticed in "Kids On My Shoulders." Singer and guitarist Greg Roberts credits The Everly Brothers for their inspiration concerning that particular sound.

You can buy the entire Fort Nightly album or single tracks from Amazon. Even more, get this...you can buy a vinyl edition here! They've got 3 different designs that you can get independently, or one package deal with all 3!

Maybe the new spin on the old superstition will be not only to say "white rabbits," but to listen to one of their songs on the first of every month, too!

Text and photo sources: Say Hey Records, Amazon, Big Apple Music Scene

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Seabear's Seven!

Hailing from Iceland, Seabear started off with one lone member. It all began with Sindri Már Sigfússon. Singing Arc is his first EP from 2004, and is available for free from their website. Later, there were three bandmates. Now, there is a total of seven members. Their album The Ghost that Carried Us Away was released back in September of 2007 through independent record label, Morr Music. The label couldn't fit any better since Morr Music is mostly electronic based. According to the label's MySpace page, "Morr Music has gradually become the label of reference for Electronica."

But, Seabear isn't only electronic. They've got numerous different instruments flowing through their songs including guitar, violin, harmonica and piano. Not only that, but they use only one microphone so if you're into the Lo-Fi sound, it doesn't get any better!

It could be argued that Seabear is the best new band to come out of Iceland in a long time. But, I don't see any point in debating it. "I Sing, I Swim" has a perfect relaxing melody that sort of reminds me of "Sleep" by The Dandy Warhols. "Hands Remember" is a slow and nostalgic song with beautiful instrumentation all the way through. "Seashell" is a bit more of an upbeat track even with the violin, and is also a favorite of mine.

Hopefully, Seabear will become more known throughout the US this year and we'll get to see them and their musically talented selves in concert! Check out their MySpace page or go buy the album here.

Photo and text sources: MySpace, Digitalis Industries, Scrink, Seabear

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Music from the Motion Picture...

I went to the movies to see "P.S. I Love You" recently. Afterwards, I decided I wanted to grab the soundtrack. So today, instead of writing about a band I'm going to write about this soundtrack. Whether you want to see the movie or not, you should give it a listen.

It starts off with The Pogues "I Love You 'Till the End." If you're a fan of The Pogues, you should really like this song. In my opinion, it's one of their best. The Irish rock band is known for their folky sound mixed with a little punk. I love that since the movie has large parts based in Ireland, this band was an inclusion. A good one.

Next, we've got James Blunt's "Same Mistake." What's a soundtrack without James Blunt, right? He brings a bit more popularity to the soundtrack itself, since a lot of people know his name and style of music. Some of the lyrics really get you in this beautiful, calm and catchy melody. "Give me reason, but don't give me choice, 'cause I'll just make the same mistake again," and "don't buy the promises, 'cause there are no promises I keep" just add to the familiarity of Blunt's work.

Needtobreathe brings "More Time" to the table on the third track. A little bit ironic I think, that the name of their band and their song sort of coordinate, even with the movie itself. Though when they talk about needing "more time" they aren't talking about death like you may think. Maybe since they are a Christian Rock band, they're insinuating sex...hmmm. Regardless, the song and movie comply when they lyrics say, "I hope that you could understand, that this is not what I had planned. Please don't worry now, it will turn around."

Eighteen year old Laura Izibor is an Irish songwriter. Her "soul" contribution is "Carousel" which was written exclusively for the film. It's got a nice little beat to it that helps bring the mood back up. Her style resembles Nikka Costa and is a pretty usual soundtrack suspect.

Hope's song was also written for the film. "Fortress" is another girly song and while there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, maybe it shouldn't have come right after Izibor's track. To be honest, they kind of sound the same. "Fortress" is an okay song, but I don't remember it in the film, and it really doesn't stand out in any way.

"Last Train Home" by Ryan Star has gotten a ton of feedback. Some say it's the best song on the album and that it is capable of changing your life. Interesting, Star was a reality star on CBS' Rock Star: Supernova. I'm not sure if he was the show's winner, but by the looks of it, he's won anyway. The song is a heartfelt rock song. It's nice, but I don't think it's changed my life.

Scotland born Paolo Nutini's "Rewind" is the seventh track on the record. The 20 year old says of his grandfather on his website, "He always wanted somebody in the family to make music their living. He's not around to see it, unfortunately, but I'm doing just what he wanted, and I'm doing it in his honor." I'm sure his grandpa would be proud to know that Nutini's track has gotten a lot of good feedback, too. "Rewind" is a slow paced song that mixes well with the film's theme.

"My Sweet Song" by Toby Lightman is a great, soulful addition that reminds you of the likes of Etta James and other standout singers. This track is one of those that you catch yourself singing at the top of your lungs. Hopefully, no one will catch you, though. While it's quite pleasing, and I like it, it's another typical soundtrack song that you'll only want to hear when you're in a certain mood.

Chuck Prophet seems to me like an "old soul" whose insight shines through his songs. Before this soundtrack his song "No Other Love" was heard in '99 by Lucinda Williams, and afterwards he went on tour with her for two months. Now, the 43 year old has plenty of stories. Check out his website for more information.

Switching up the genres a bit, we get The Academy Is... next. With "Everything We Had" the alternative rock band takes the track from their new album to the big screen. It's a fresh breath of air after some of the other melancholy filled songs. "I am no gentleman, I can be a prick," seems to go along with some of the Irish songs, right?

"In the Beginning" is indie-rock band The Stills. This one might be one of my favorites, and one that is different from all the other tracks. Back in 2004, one of their songs was on the "Wicker Park Soundtrack," too!

Okay, I may have lied. I also REALLY like Flogging Molly. So, their song "If I Ever Leave this World Alive" is another fave. Again, the Irish-ness is so delightful in "P.S. I Love You." It all really makes you want to just pick up everything, travel there and embark on your own adventures. Oh, and learn to play the fiddle, too. Another good pick of irony for the movie, "She says I'm okay, I'm alright, though you have gone from my life. You said that it would, now everything should, BE ALRIGHT."

With Nellie McKay's movie title track song, we're back to your typical sappy soundtrack. FUNNY, because she used to be a stand-up comedian! But, "P.S. I Love You," the song, takes you back to another era, which is always fun...or funny. So, I guess it's a win-win.

Composer John Powell has the last hurrah on the album. "Kisses and Cake" is a very sweet ballad perfect for the ending of both the movie and the soundtrack. No lyrics for us to analyze and match with the movie here. Just an instrumental to end with.

Text and photo sources: Wikipedia, Amazon, Paolo Nutini

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New, Old, or Young...Doesn't matter!

When singer Tahita Bulmer was in school, she wanted to be in a group or club. She came up with her own, and wanted to name it "Pony Club." Unfortunately, the name was already claimed, and so "New Young Pony Club" was born.

In 2005, her band was born under the same name. They released two singles including "Ice Cream" under label Tirk Recordings, the same label as Wolfmother. But, their debut album Fantastic Playroom was released with Modular Recordings in the end of August this year.

Made up of five members from London, their sound is something that just makes you want to dance. They describe it saying, "We marry the dance ethic with the pop ethic, and make something that you can dance to and sing along to.” When I first heard their hit "Ice Cream" I immediately loved the smooth beat from the very beginning of the song. Most people have heard the song on Intel's Core 2 processor commercial.

After hearing the addictive song, I looked them up and heard "The Bomb" and "Get Lucky". Both, like I expected, are great. Vocalist Bulmer has a tendency to even sound a bit like Gwen Stefani and Debbie Harry from Blondie in the same song! In fact, Blacktop Guerillas describe them like this, "Picture the Yeah Yeah Yeah's doin the nasty with LCD Soundsystem."

This year, they're playing a bunch of festivals after a little touring with Lily Allen. Also, UK Magazine "New Musical Express" (NME) named Bulmer in their Cool List. This year, their keyboardist Lou Hayter is seen in the list, too! He is said to be dating Jamie Reynolds, singer from Klaxons. Maybe they met at the "Indie Rave Tour" that the magazine held.

Check out their NYPC's website and MySpace and take a gander. Make sure you listen to their songs! Warning: They may get stuck in your head!

Photo and text souces: Wikipedia, Outlar, Blacktop Guerillas

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One for Jupiter!

"And so it begins," that finally there's a band that mixes a modern AND a fun indie-electronic beat. Jupiter One doesn't make you want to slit your wrists or go trip out on some drugs. It's perfect! Except that it's taken me and probably many others awhile to find out about them. So, I guess I shouldn't say, "finally", and instead just say "hooray!"

Even with that being said, some have compared Jupiter One with the likes of Pink Floyd. I'm sorry, but I definitely don't see it. Don't get me wrong, of course Pink Floyd is great, but don't let those opinions sway or fool you. With their consistent happy tempo, others say the melodies resemble modern indie rock and funk bands like Franz Ferdinand and Bloc Party. While both of those bands are included in my favorites and seem more believable, I think Jupiter One has their own blended concoction of sound. Sure, they do have pinches of sounds like those bands, but I think it's difficult to pinpoint and match their music with another. Out of all the bands they've been compared to, the one I believe comes closest is The Cars.

"Percolating with the nervous energy of the Talking Heads, the stuttering punk-funk of Gang of Four, and the pulsating synths of the Cars, Jupiter One injects colorless indie rock with a bracing rhythmic pulse, two-fisted pop hooks, and East Coast swagger", is how the band describes their sound. If you check them out, be sure to listen to "Countdown" and "Wrong Line."

Anyway, the band's label is through Cordless Recordings and all five members of the band reside in New York City. Their self-titled album came out in 2005, but they still rock the music scene in NYC singing their own tracks and sometimes covers from bands like a-ha.

Like Datarock, Jupiter One has hooked up with EA Sports and you can hear their music in FIFA and Madden 08. Check out their MySpace page for more information and where to find 'em.

Photo and text sources: MySpace, Amazon, AsianAve., Jupiter One

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911

If you enjoy listening to Sia, and Zero 7, you'll really like the electro-alternative-folk band Husky Rescue. My favorite song, "City Lights" is from their first album Country Falls, which came out in 2004. On the band's website they describe the album as "a small parcel of sweet and melancholic daydreams." That's a really good description, too, because their music is perfect for when you're just sitting there daydreaming.

Husky Rescue is made up of five members, and they are all from Helsinki, Finland. Their newest album came out in January this year, titled "Ghost is Not Real." This album is described as a more dark atmosphere, "like searching for the smallest glints of paradise behind the dark cloud of the modern world we live behind." Tracks on the album include a three part song called, "Blueberry Tree." Regardless, the dream-like music they create needs to get more exposure!

They have not yet toured the US, but if you're in Finland, the UK, or Ireland, check out their schedule! You can also visit their MySpace page here. I hope to hear and learn of more from this group in the near future.

Text and Photo Sources: Husky Rescue Website, MySpace

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Great Music Comes from Massachusetts

Mobius Band released their 2nd album, Heaven, with indie label Misra Records last month. 10 fresh tracks from the trio will have you 'synth-rocking' out.

Friends with other bands like Editors and The Nationals, Mobius Band members include Noam Schatz, Ben Sterling and Peter Sax. The three met while studying at Wesleyan University. Funny, right? Coincidence? I don't think so. Both Mobius Band and MGMT, (which I wrote about a few weeks ago here) both hail from Wesleyan.

They self-released three albums aptly named One, Two, and Three, before their first record label album with Ghostly International titled City Vs. Country. City Vs. Country was out in early 2005, but later that year the band came out with the full length album with the same label, The Loving Sounds of Static, which was mostly a continuation of City Vs. Country.

From the band's bio on their website:

"Heaven’s sound is marked by Noam’s new obsession — “circuit bent” keyboards. Inspired by a chance encounter in Minneapolis, Noam took to deliberately short-circuiting the innards of toy keyboards, turning them into bizarre machines capable of incredibly sophisticated and impossible-to-duplicate sounds. While Peter and Ben crafted Heaven’s songs in the band’s Brooklyn rehearsal space, Noam — the one member of the band who remained in rural Massachussets — spent many months in isolation, alternating between an extensive rewiring and renovation of his old country house, and long hours in the attic—begoggled, soldering gun in hand, tinkering with fifteen flea market-ready Casio keyboards salvaged from yard sales. At a time when anyone with a laptop has a wealth of pre-fab electronic noises at their disposal, Heaven’s sound is a tribute to Noam’s dedicated approach and sui generis sonic research."

My personal picks from the first album would have to be the title track and "You're Wrong." From the new album, I like a lot of them including "Hallie" which you can download here at Ghostly International for free.

Also, I'd like to apologize for not posting an article last week. I took the day off to eat some turkey. Hope everyone had a good holiday!

Photo and text sources: Wikipedia, Mobius Band Website, Amazon, Ghostly International, Misra Records

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Dirty Data Dancing

"We just want to make people do the dirty! The dirty dancing!" - DATAROCK

The Norwegian band Datarock isn't new to the music biz, but their current hit "Fa-Fa-Fa" has whirled them out into the open. If you haven't heard it yet, just wait. You'll catch it on new advertisements from Coca-Cola as well as in the video games NHL 08, FIFA 08 and NBA Live 08.

Their debut album was released in 2005, but not here in North America until June of this year. The dance-punk band has 13 tracks on their self-titled disc all guaranteed to make you dance around. Most have catchy beats that are likely to get stuck in your head, too. "I Used to Dance with my Daddy" immediately caught my attention.

Fredrik Saroea and Ket-Ill- make up the duo. They've been super busy, too, last month performing on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and next month they'll be in LA for a show. They've been running a small tour here in North America opening for the Kaiser Chiefs.

Taken from the band's bio on their website, I found this little tidbit interesting: "In Norwegian, you would call a computer a 'data machine,'" Saroea explains. "So in the beginning, Datarock was making fun of all the rock people that thought electronic music was simply computer-generated music. But in English, 'data' means information, which is even more appropriate because Datarock is essentially the product of 30 years of the information society. But for some reason, we're constantly going back to the years between 1977 and 1982."

Check out their custom red jumpsuits! You can get one, too! Click here to visit Datarock's store.

Text and Photo Sources: Wikipedia, Virb, Datarock

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Stranded on an Island

Indie rock band Islands' debut album Return to the Sea was released in April of 2006. Previous members of the band The Unicorns, Nicolas Thorburn and Jamie Thompson worked together as Islands after The Unicorns split up in 2005.

Around a year later, Thompson left Islands, but the band still marched on. New drummer Aaron Harris, from Pittsburgh, stepped in. Islands also scored a vocalist and violinist in Nick's girlfriend, Kate Perkins. Yet, even after reading some interviews that Islands has given, I'm still not quite sure just how many members are actually in the band. I'm guessing maybe six?

In a Pitchfork Media interview, Nick described Return to the Sea as having "some dancehall influences, some calypso...It's more diverse and sprawling and ambitious." All I know is upon quickly scanning through some of their album's songs, I liked what I heard, regardless of what kind of music it's supposed to be. To me, it's indie rock, but Thorburn seems to like calling it pop.

Supposedly, a new album is currently in the works. Thorburn's also doing a comic book while working on the next Islands record in Los Angeles with Rob Schnapf. He's even got a list of ideas in his head for another album after the next!

Besides all of that, he's been collaborating on other musical projects, too! He's been working with 3 other guys, including former Unicorn and Islander, Jamie Thompson, again on a different venture. This one is under the name of Juiced Elfers. Before that, Thompson and Thorburn worked on yet another project with a few other musicians. I don't know how they do it, because I don't know about you, but I can hardly keep track of all the different endeavors they've taken aboard. Who knows what to expect next! I think I'll just sit back and wait for the new Islands album. Everything else seems too hard to remember.

Fun Fact: Nicolas Thorburn's stage name while with The Unicorns was Nick "Neil" Diamonds. Later, when in Islands, it was just Nick Diamonds. Now, he just wants to be called good ole' Nick T.

Text and photo sources: Wikipedia and Pitchfork Media

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Update* The Management Is Not Pretending

If you've been checking out other music reviews this month, you may have heard of MGMT, or the Management. Their new and first major label disc debut is happening this month through Columbia Records. Oracular Spectacular's most recognizable track is the awesome electro "Time to Pretend."

The two main guys behind the indie rock band is Andrew Vanwyngarden and Ben Goldwasser, who met back in 2002 at Wesleyan University in Connecticut. This fall, they'll be on tour with another great band, Of Montreal. Their music is similar to Of Montreal's, Mates of State and Spoon.

In MGMT's profile located on Last.fm it says, "Andrew VanWyngarden, one of the MGMT figureheads, is currently collaborating with Of Montreal's Kevin Barnes, with plans to release a record in 2007 under the name Blik Fang."

Hmmm. Upon more research, I found an older article regarding this same subject. But, this one I found is from Pitchfork Media posted by Kati Llewellyn. "Barnes (from Of Montreal) has also been pumping out the jams for a 2007 record with Andrew VanWyngarden of the Management (the MGMT if you're hip, the band who toured with OM on several occasions if you're really hip) under the name Ocelot Fang," she says. But, that article was posted in June of 2006, so I feel quite confident in saying the Blikk Fang name is most current. Though, personally I think I like Ocelot Fang better. Oh well. Hopefully, we'll get to see MGMT continue to peer out from behind Of Montreal. Of course, they make a great team, but they deserve some praise and acknowledgement all of their own.

Update* SO, I thought the album was released in October and was wondering why I could not find it anywhere! Turns out, it will officially be released in January. (But, you can cheat and get the jams on iTunes if you can't wait!)

Picture and text sources from: Pitchfork Media, Spin Magazine, Last.fm

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Famous Monster

In the spirit of Halloween, today I am sharing with you the best, brand new Halloween song. I couldn't be more excited since I'm growing tired of hearing "Abracadabra" and "Thriller".

David Sale's song "Famous Monsters" is a hit in the mp3 world right now. You can download it here. Starting off with a catchy beat, it's perfect for when you're in your car driving to those Halloween parties in the upcoming week. If you're making a CD compilation of Halloween tunes, don't forget David's monster hit.

I had the awesome chance to ask David a couple of questions. Here's how it went --

H: I just heard your song "Famous Monsters" (love it!) and thought that with Halloween upon us I'd love to just have a quick Q & A with you. So, where are you originally from?

DS: I grew up in Ithaca NY but am in San Diego this week. It's crazy here now.

H: How did you get into music?

DS: I got into music for girls :) What else is new. But really it feeds the soul which keeps me sane!

H: Other hobbies?

DS: Girls , partying and snorkeling.

H: Favorite band?

DS: The Beatles. (2pac. Amy Winehouse. Band of Horses)

H: Do you have any pets? (I can be very random. But hey, inquiring minds want to know!)

DS: Well it just so happens I have a new pet. A tiny little mouse that has decided to move in. I tell her to leave but she just doesn't listen. Do you Minnie?

H: Favorite song RIGHT now (besides Famous Monsters)?

DS: To be weird I'll pick Polysics' "New Wave Jacket" :)

H: How long have you been making music and are you shopping around for a record label? Or are you just lovin' the online market?

DS: I've been playing music for over 5 years now. As far as Monsters goes though, I just put it up for a download and it just started getting hits. Ya never know.

With so many new ways to get music out it does make one wonder what to do. So I try to make the music more than think about it.
"Shopping" is such a strange concept, it's like I'm looking for shoes. So I guess if a shoe comes along and and it fits I'll wear it. Just like my little Minnie Mouse. Seriously I don't know what to do about her. I'm not going to whack her, she's so tiny.

H: Plans for Halloween?

DS: Get the Ghoul on!

H: How old are you?

DS: My Mommy said to not give out personal info online! Hey I gotta run right now, have to meet someone.

So, there you have it! If you want to hear other music by David, check out the Split Apple Media Group website that has a couple of his MP3s. Oh, and of course you can always check him out on MySpace, too.

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He's From a Place in Scotland Called Dumfries!

Photo Source: this.bigstereo.net

One of the newest "makes you wanna dance" Brit singers is Calvin Harris. I've heard his songs played enough that I didn't even think he was a newcomer! Technically, he's been playing around with music since the age of 15, but his first album I Created Disco just came out in June this year.

Photo source: www.last.fm

Calvin, 23, was discovered on the ever popular website, MySpace. He's been out on tour with Groove Armada and Faithless. Plus, he's worked with Kylie Minogue and Sophie Ellis-Bextor. Anyone that is a 80s electronic fan will love Harris' music. Especially since it's got a modern twist to it which you'll notice in songs like "Vegas" and "The Girls".

So, if you're sick of listening to Britney's "Gimme More" and want to immerse your ears with some catchy dance hooks, check out Calvin Harris' album this weekend. It'll probably make you want to drive to Vegas.

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Music Therapy

Photo Source: www.primaveraclub.com

It's not very often that I look to friends to see what they have been listening to. I have maybe 3 people in my life that I say, "Hey, tell me a different band to check out." I trust these people to clue me in to a sound I can't believe I've been missing out on.

Recently, one of these people told me to check out The Twilight Singers. The lead singer of The Afghan Whigs, Greg Dulli, began The Twilight Singers back in 1997. Originating in Cincinnati, the band now has 4 albums for our listening pleasure. My favorite track was instantly "Forty Dollars", from their most recent album Powder Burns released in 2006. Turns out Dulli was completely taken by drugs while writing it.

Photo Source: www.thetwilightsingers.com

On the band's website, Greg Dulli talks about some of his deepest emotions and his hardest times:

"I started on this album two years ago," Dulli recalls. "Up to that point, I had lived in a fucking drug haze for seven years. The two oldest songs on the record, ‘Forty Dollars' and ‘Dead To Rights,' were written in a complete fog of everyday drug abuse—to the point where I don't really even remember writing or playing them. I could probably never write those songs ever again. During most of the writing of this record, I was straightening myself out, getting my shit together, learning how to live unclouded."

In 2002, Dulli's best friend passed away from a heart attack due to drug abuse:

"Blackberry Belle was my requiem for Ted Demme," he says in hindsight. "When someone that close to you dies, something dies with them. The circumstances under which Teddy died could've taken me one of two ways. It could've cleaned me up and straightened me out, or it could've sent me deeper into the abyss, which is exactly where I went. I had a degree of guilt for living when someone else did not. Perhaps I wanted to see how much it would take for that to happen to me—to see if I was indestructible. I have that kind of ego."

Despite the abstraction involved, some tracks, like the wrenchingly epic comedown rocker "Bonnie Brae," remain based on very real people going through very traumatic moments; in "Bonnie Brae," it's the possibility that Dulli might lose yet another close friend to narcotics—or himself. "'Bonnie Brae' describes a specific event I observed that I'll never forget," he says. "I was cleansing myself of the badness, but was in close proximity to someone who was deep in it. That brought things into real focus: what happened to them could've very easily happened me. That was my first real meditation on the life I had been living."

Photo Source: www.brooklynrecord.com

Reading about some of the heartwrenching events in which Dulli has barely made it out alive, makes you want to listen to all of his songs. Like a book tells a story, The Twilight Singers tell a story, too. Both through words, but theirs with music, as well. I wonder what is going to happen next.

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Under the Blacklight

photo source: www.messiah.edu

I've been a fan of Rilo Kiley for quite some time. Naturally, I was intrigued when I found out they had a new album out. But, that always freaks me out because I'm afraid it won't be as good as I hope.

photo source: www.entertainment.circuitcity.com

With Under the Blacklight, the band's newest works, I don't feel that way. I'm enjoying the song "Silver Lining" but another one I'm fond of is "Dreamworld", which I have not heard about in any reviews the way I've heard about "Silver Lining".

The title track, "Under the Blacklight" is a good song, too, but it's a little bit too slow for my taste. It starts out with an electronic snythesizing beat that sounds awesome, but then when the lyrics begin, it changes shape. It sounds sort of like Liz Phair, which isn't bad, I'm just saying....

Anyhow, I just learned a bunch of trivia about Jenny Lewis, the sultry cool girl of the band. She was in the 1989 movie Troop Beverly Hills with Shelley Long! Also, in 2004 she worked and did vocals with The Postal Service, whom I also adore. photo source: www.theunderlay.com

Q Magazine did an interview last month where bandmember Blake Sennett discusses the story behind the band's name: "Rilo Kiley is named after a character he'd met in a dream who had predicted the date of Jenny Lewis's death."

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Gossiping

I am forever LOVING "Girl Talk", which is a DJ named Greg Gillis who makes wonderful music mashups.

One of the coolest parts is that he lives here in Pittsburgh. I didn't even know until I looked up more information about Girl Talk a year or so ago!

Born in 1981, Gillis takes all the songs you know and love, takes the best PARTS of these songs and makes a totally awesome new dance groove!

Oh yeah, and he does it all with a computer.

If you haven't listened to his mixes, it is a must. That will be your homework over the weekend. My favorite is "Bounce That" from the Night Ripper album, which you can buy here.

Pitchfork Media did an interview with Gillis last year that can be seen here.

He talks about everything, and includes a lot of Pittsburgh references, which I like! How often does one of your favorite musicians (or anyone with some fame really) talk about the place you know, live and love (unless of course you live in LA or NY)!

Here in the 'Burgh, he's played at The Andy Warhol Museum (just add another to his 'plus' list, why don't we?), but he's played in tons of other places including Japan!

These are from the Warhol, in Pittsburgh.These are from Japan.

I think it's absolutely amazing what Girl Talk has done for mixes, and for music in general. Greg Gillis is like a sort of inspiration, I think. Or maybe I'm just upset I didn't think of it first!

Photo source: www.girl-talk.net

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Not So Tempting

Yesterday, while flipping through stations on my Sirius - I came across a song called "What Have You Done" by a band named "Within Temptation".

First, I thought it was a new band, but I was mistaken. They've been around since 1996 and are from the Netherlands. The song I'd heard just happened to be their first official release in the US. Thing is, they sound just like Evanescence. Even their main and only girl, Sharon den Adel, sort of resembles Amy Lee in her looks and sound.

These are pictures of Amy Lee:

photo source: www.bellazon.comphoto source: www.freewebs.comphoto source: www.pettipond.com

And these are pictures of Sharon den Adel:

photo source: www.lacoccinelle.netphoto source: strefa.rockmetal.art.plphoto source: www.within-temptation.be

See what I mean? I can't even tell the difference!!!

Anyways, Within Temptation's new album is titled "The Heart of Everything" and is available now. You can visit their website here.

Evanescence's new album is "The Open Door", also available now. Their website is here.

Let me know what YOU think!

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