Atlas and the Anchor

Free Friday: Harriet - "Tell The Right Story" EP

2012-02-10T09:00:00.002-05:00

Harriet is the new project from Alex Casnoff, formerly of Dawes. Tell The Right Story is their debut EP and they are offering it up as a free download at their website. Mixing the organic and electronic, Harriet falls in line somewhere between the sun-soaked roots rock of Dawes and something a little more muscular with synths, samples and beats. Alex's whiskey-bent vocals are raw yet warm, molding to each song perfectly.

The five-song EP opens with the standout first single, "I Slept With All Your Mothers" with a warped synth line shifting underneath a dusty, Californian folk rock song. Another standout, "Soldier" features a room-filling vintage organ and some Beatles-esque melodies.

Download the Tell The Right Story EP here: www.harrietmusic.com

3 Songs: On Repeat

2012-02-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

1. of Montreal - "Wintered Debts" (The sprawling first single trades in the loping country-pop of their Elephant 6 beginnings and is mixed with an ambient, psychedelic passage. It is taken from the lyrically, more personal and musically, less glammy new album Paralytic Stalks out now on Polyvinyl.) http://www.ofmontreal.net/

Download: http://www.ofmontreal.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/of_Montreal-Wintered_Debts.mp3

2. Sharon Van Etten - "Sepents" (First single taken from the Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter's third album, Tramp is out now on Jagjaguwar. The new album shows her growth and confidence and features guests like Zach Condon of Beirut and Jenn Wasner of Wye Oak but it is Sharon's sultry voice and stellar songwriting that takes the spotlight.) http://sharonvanetten.com/

Download: http://www.scjag.com/mp3/jag/serpents.mp3

3. Big Deal - "Chair" (American Kacey Underwood and Brit Alice Costelloe released their debut Lights Out on Mute at the end of January. The duo create a minimalist yet big sound filled with heartbreak, swirling and fuzzy 90's guitars and charming male/female vocals but no drums or percussion.) http://www.facebook.com/weareabigdeal

Download: http://www.mediafire.com/?j59le672sx98t46

Band Of Skulls - "Sweet Sour"

2012-02-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Band Of Skulls return with Sweet Sour, their sophomore album and first for Vagrant Records today on iTunes and everywhere else next week. The Southhampton trio create an exciting blend of 70's-style psychdelics and stomping stoner rock riffs with pop-leaning choruses and some blues rock boogie for a larger than life arena-rock sound.

The album opens with the churning title track and first single, "Sweet Sour" with its murky bottom end, fluttering guitar fills and tight vocal harmonies. The aptly titled "Bruises" follows with a heavy stomping riff, a quiet/loud dynamic and the dual male/female vocals of bassist Emma Richardson and guitarist Russell Marsden. "Wanderluster" features a buzzing guitar and a creative time signature that deviates from the straight-forward rock beats. Standout track "The Devil Takes Care Of His Own" is highlighted by a crunchy, fuzzed-out blues rock riff that would make Jack White blush. "Lay My Head Down" slows down the pace with acoustic guitars and blacklight-drenched harmonies for a bit of classic rock balladry complete with a melodic bluesy guitar solo. Russell takes the lead on vocals for "You're Not Pretty But You Got It Goin' On"; an arena-ready slice of blues rock swagger. "Navigate" and "Hometowns" are two more ballads with swirling melodies and cyclical acoustic guitars with the focus on the duo's vocal prowess. "Lies" is a two and half minute burst of heavy psych-rock that leads into album closer, "Close To Nowhere" which is the perfect heart-tugging emotional comedown from the powerful songs that came before.

Download the title track "Sweet Sour" here:

http://s3.amazonaws.com/site-images.vagrant.com/audio_items/299/01_Sweet_Sour.mp3

For more info: http://bandofskulls.com/ and http://www.vagrant.com/

Free Friday: Carsie Blanton - "Idiot Heart"

2012-02-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Philly-based folk-pop singer/songwriter Carsie Blanton just released her new album Idiot Heart this week on her Bandcamp page using the "pay what you want" pricing model. The album produced by Oliver Wood of The Wood Brothers is filled to the brim with Carsie's coy and confident vocals and blended with her New Orleans jazz-inflected classic pop stylings, it is worth every penny that you chose to pay.

The stand out title track, "Idiot Heart" is a vintage organ-drenched country-leaning send-up. And the dark and sultry, "Little Death" features a contrastingly bright, swinging melody and a male vocal counterpart for another standout moment.

Fans of Regina Spector and Norah Jones rejoice!

Download the album Idiot Heart here: http://carsieblanton.bandcamp.com/

Download the track "Backseat" here: http://loudfeed.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/22389/Backseat.mp3

For more info: http://www.carsieblanton.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2012-02-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

1. Hospitality - "Betty Wang" (The New York-based band released their highly anticipated self-titled debut on Merge this week. Led by singer Amber Papini and her sometimes coy, always unique voice that has a hint of fake British accent, the band plays an off-kilter brand of retro-laced pop. "Betty Wang", the super-catchy first single, was written about Amber's old law firm co-worker.) www.myspace.com/hospitalitylives

Download: http://soundcloud.com/mergerecords/hospitality-betty-wang

2. Martin Sexton - "Fall Like Rain" (Soulful singer/songwriter returns with a politically charged new EP Fall Like Rain, out now on his own Kitchen Table Records. The 5-song EP also features a cover of Buffalo Springfield's famous "For What It's Worth" make new with Martin's malleable voice.) http://martinsexton.com/home

Download: http://loudfeed.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/22392/01_Fall_Like_Rain.mp3

3. Rodrigo y Gabriela - "Juan Loco" (The guitar maestros return with a full Cuban Orchestra in tow to remake 9 old songs with the full band treatment on their new album Area 52 out now on ATO Records. White Zombie drummer John Tempesta also provides the thundering backbone to 2 tracks and their complex blend of Latin, jazz and metal is taken to new and exciting heights. They will also tour this spring for the first time with a full band.) http://www.rodgab.com/

Download: https://myaccount.dropsend.com/file/a21de2e5cc9efb2a

Premiere: Night Genes - "Soaring Through The Chromosomes" Single

2012-01-30T09:00:00.003-05:00

Atlas and the Anchor is pleased to premiere an exclusive download of "Soaring Through The Chromosomes", the new single from Night Genes, the dark folk-pop project of the world-traversing songwriter Eric Ingersoll.

Taken from their excellent sophomore album Like The Blood, due to be released tomorrow, the infectious track features pounding parlour piano boosted by Ingersoll's booming baritone that rivals that of only Matt Berninger of The National. Keyboardist/vocalist Amy Foote's joyous and lilting vocal melodies provide a colorful contrast to Eric's deep and weighty vocals on the bouyant standout track.

Download "Soaring Through The Chromosomes" Single here: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38730955/mp3/nightgenes_soaringthroughthechromosomes.mp3

To order the album Like The Blood and get more info on Night Genes, click here: http://nightgenes.com/

Free Friday: Issac Joel - "Back To Bassics" EP

2012-01-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

Isaac Joel Karns of indie psych-pop band The Pomegranates has just released a 6-track solo EP titled, Back To Bassics, as a free download on his Bandcamp page. Recorded with only his bass guitar (hence the title) and his voice, the EP is filled with very textural, ambient and experimental music that still retains the pop-leaning psychedelic charm of The Poms.

The single, "If I Hear Music" settles into a propulsive groove with wispy and swirling melodies meant for a long drive alone. Another standout track, the atmospheric "Selflessness" envelopes you in hazy layers of vocals with a jumpy bass line. The eight and a half minute track "Walk Around The Lake" features tender vocals contrasting with a fuzzed-out bass riff and an intriguing meditative doo-wop passage to end the song. The EP closes with a dream-pop take on the Everly Brothers' classic hit "All I Have To Do Is Dream", with guest vocals from fellow Cincinnati-based musician Ben Burroughs.

Download the Back To Bassics EP here: http://isaacjoel.bandcamp.com/album/back-to-bassics

And look for cassettes copies at the merch table at the upcoming Pomegranates shows!

For more info: http://pomegranatesart.tumblr.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2012-01-25T09:00:00.001-05:00

1. Craig Finn - "Honolulu Blues" (The Hold Steady frontman steps out with his first solo album Clear Heart Full Eyes, out now on Vagrant. The songs are more acoustic based, rootsy and even bluesier than the Hold Steady but of course, still retain Craig's distinct vocals and knack for engaging storytelling, taking his sound from the bar to the coffee shop.) http://steadycraig.tumblr.com/

Download: 24 http://s3.amazonaws.com/site-images.vagrant.com/audio_items/301/08_Honolulu_Blues.mp3

2. Nada Surf - "When I Was Young" (For their seventh album, The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy out now on Barsuk Records, the band injects their sound with the youthful live energy that made them so "popular" in the first place to great results.) http://www.nadasurf.com/

Download: http://barsukmusic.blaireau.net/NadaSurf_WhenIWasYoung.mp3

3. The Holiday Crowd - "Never Speak Of It Again" (Canadian new-romantic indie-pop four-piece create a bare bones Smiths-like, emotional rock experience with wispy, jangly guitars and melancholic melodies for miles on their new EP Over The Bluffs, out now on Shelflife Records.) http://www.facebook.com/TheHolidayCrowd

Download: http://www.shelflife.com/mp3-bin/holidaycrowd_81.mp3

Matt Pryor - May Day"

2012-01-24T09:00:00.008-05:00

After reuniting and releasing a new album last year with the Get Up Kids, frontman Matt Pryor found time to write and record a new solo album of emotional folk rock, May Day. Out today and self-released on his own Nightshoes Syndicate Records, his sophomore solo album was recorded last May (hence the title) and was funded in part by his fans through a Kickstarter campaign.

“Don’t Let The Bastards Get You Down” opens the twelve-track album with Pryor’s unique voice and a ramshackle acoustic guitar to set the tone. “The Lies Are Keeping Me Here” follows with a pounding rhythm, harmonica and a catchy chorus. “Where Do We Go From Here” stands out with a bouncy, whistle-inducing piano melody and a shuffling beat. The bittersweet “Like A Professional” slows down the pace and features Pryor’s distinct storytelling. The earnest and emotional “As If I Could Fall In Love With You Again” is propelled by driving, foot-tapping strumming and more train-yard harmonica for another standout moment. “Polish The Broken Glass” gives more of a full band feel with a jaunty mandolin figures and a more pronounced beat along with an infectious sing along chorus. “Unhappy Is The Only Happy That You’ll Ever Be” features a strummed banjo and gently picked acoustic guitars and Matt’s way of making a sad song happy. First single, “Your New Favorite” just might be your new favorite with close-knit harmonies and a roots rock sound. The piano-led “You Won’t Get Any Blood From Me” and its heartfelt harmonies will remind you of an acoustic take on classic Get Up Kids. And the album closes with the cyclical guitars and somber melodies of “I Was A Witness” and the weary-eyed and wistful closer “What My Tired Eyes Would View”.

May Day showcases a refreshed Pryor’s catchiest and most evocative songwriting in years.

Before he begins his headlining dates, you can catch him on the Where’s The Band Tour with Anthony Raneri of Bayside, Chris Conley of Saves The Day and Ace Enders of The Early November and Evan Weiss of Into It. Over It.

Download "Your New Favorite" here: http://sneakattackmedia.com/media/899/YourNewFavorite.mp3

For more info: http://www.facebook.com/mattpryorsongs and http://twitter.com/mattpryorsongs
and http://www.facebook.com/wherestheband

Free Friday: Equals - "Equals" EP

2012-01-20T09:00:00.000-05:00

The San Mateo, TX-based instrumental post-rock band Equals released their debut self-titled EP late last summer as a free download on their Bandcamp page. The EP was co-produced and mixed by Alex Bhore of fellow experimental instrumental band This Will Destroy You. With crazy time signatures, fuzzed out and feedback drenched guitars and dark, atmospheric synths and samples, the 5-piece band puts a new spin on the cinematic, experimental genre, sounding like Interpol covering Explosions In The Sky.

The jazzy undertones and organic-meets-electronic polarity of "Salvo" stands out, as does the 7/8 time signature of the moody and ambient "Table Monster".

Download the Equals EP here: http://equals.bandcamp.com/

For more info click here: http://www.facebook.com/equalstexas

3 Songs: On Repeat

2012-01-18T09:00:00.002-05:00

1. Guided By Voices - "The Unsinkable Fats Domino" (Last year, after a fifteen year hiatus, the original GBV lineup reunited for a successful tour, then decided to record a new album. Let's Go Eat The Factory is out now and the 21-track album, recorded mostly in garages and basements, delivers that classic scruffy, power-pop sound that fans have been salivating for since Alien Lanes and Bee Thousand.) http://www.gbv.com/

Download: http://www.tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/guidedbyvoices_theunsinkablefatsdomino.mp3

2. Old Monk - "Butter & Toast" (The first single is a messy, energetic slice of garage-pop with a noodling, Isaac Brock-like guitar intro that sets the tone for the Brooklyn-based 3-piece's infectious debut album Birds Of Belize out now on Eenie Meenie Records.) http://freeoldmonk.com/

Download: http://freeoldmonk.com/epk/music/butterandtoast.mp3

3. Museum Mouth - "Blood Mountain" (Sounding like a more youthful and restless Guided By Voices, the chugging, lo-fi single from the North Carolina noise-pop trio's sophomore album Sexy But Not Happy is due to be self-released on 01/24. For fans of No Age and Times New Viking.) http://museummouth.tumblr.com/

Download: http://beartrappr.com/press/Museum%20Mouth/Sexy/04%20Blood%20Mountain.mp3

3 Songs: On Repeat

2012-01-11T09:00:00.004-05:00

1. Dream Brother - "Haunted Heart (ft. Paul Sprangers)" (Dream Brother is the infectious new indie-pop project from Ian Anderson of the Minneapolis band One For The Team. His new digital 7" was released as a free download on the AR site and features guest spots from Paul Sprangers, vocalist of Free Energy as well as John Vanderslice. Look for more music soon!) http://news.afternoonrecords.com/

Download: http://www.afternoonrecords.com/mp3/db_hauntedheart.mp3

2. Signals Midwest - "Limnology" (Yes! Cleveland's Signals Midwest create a forceful and smart emo-tinged punk rock that reminds me of everything I used to love from Braid, Hot Water Music and Brandtson on their sophomore album Latitudes And Longitudes out now on Tiny Engines Records.) http://tinyengines.bandcamp.com/album/latitudes-and-longitudes

Download: http://beartrappr.com/press/Signals%20Midwest/07%20Limnology.mp3

3. The Proctors - "All The Books" (After a 15-year hiatus, the influential UK dream-pop band released a new 7" on Shelflife Records in December with an eye towards a new full-length album to be released this year. A haze of keys, jangly guitars and beautiful male/female vocals wrap you in an embrace you will not want to break loose from anytime soon.) http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Proctors/147843178561745

Download: http://www.shelflife.com/mp3-bin/proctors1_78.mp3

Lila Rose - "Heart Machine"

2012-01-10T09:00:00.001-05:00

Canadian born and San Fransisco-based electro-pop siren Lila Rose is set to release her highly anticipated debut album Heart Machine, today on Oakland's RTFM Records. Lila Rose delivers on the promise by pushing the boundaries of the indie-pop/electronica genre, to incorporate everything from trip-hop beats, acoustic guitars and Gospel choirs, to sugary pop hooks and strong vocals along with introspective lyrics. The album was co-produced by Lila herself and with SF-based producer David Earl (aka LogicNinja).

The album opens with the sinister and haunting production of the catchy first single, "Obsession". The sparse arrangement and big beat of the title track, "Heart Machine" allows the focus to shine on Lila's vocals which sound like a cross between a Bjork that you can actually understand and Florence Welch of Florence + The Machine. The standout track also features a guest spot from singer/songwriter/producer LYNX who also co-wrote the lyrics to the song. Another standout, the aptly titled "Like Champagne", opens with a popping and effervescent hip-hop inspired club-ready beat, reminiscent of M.I.A. or Santigold. "Casting Shadows" features warped synths and a disorienting beat with swirling violins that add to the psychedelic harmonies provided by guest vocalist Eric Denniston of LA-based band Danger Lips. The glitchy beat, robotic vocal tics and eerie synths of "Lost Your Senses" provide another standout moment. "Unbroken" is a darker-tinged and atmospheric ballad highlighted by touches of operatic vocal acrobatics that showcases a more evocative and heartfelt side of Rose's stellar songwriting. The beautiful "Give You My All" follows with a sentimental and more straight-forward piano-led ballad, featuring swelling orchestration and vocals with raw emotion that could easily be a radio hit if given the chance. "Get Gone Again" begins with suspenseful, striking piano chords and builds into a poppy breakup anthem. "Bang Bang" is a trip-hop track with interesting vocal harmonies and a super catchy chorus. Mirroring the evocative album art, with honest and heartfelt lyrics, Lila Rose exposes her heart on the standout track "In The Dimmest". And the poppy and fun "Couldn't Have" picks up the pace again with a bouncy rhythm and hand-claps. The twelve track album closes out with the languid melodies and pulsating and clanking tribal-like beat of "And The Beat".

Lila Rose proves with her stellar debut, Heart Machine that she is an unstoppable force in the indie-pop and electronica scene, ready to break out of the club and onto the radio.

Order and stream the album Heart Machine here: http://lilarose.bandcamp.com/

For more info click here: http://www.lilarosemusic.com/

Top 10 Albums of 2011

2011-12-30T09:00:00.001-05:00

There were a ton of great releases this year but these are the albums I listened to the most.

1. The Head and the Heart - The Head And The Heart

2. Marcellus Hall - The First Line

3. Death Cab For Cutie - Codes And Keys

4. Primus - Green Naugahyde

5. Wilco - The Whole Love

6. A Lull - Confetti

7. Iron & Wine - Kiss Each Other Clean

8. Ball Of Flame Shoot Fire - Pots And Knives

Download: http://ballofflameshootfire.bandcamp.com/album/pots-and-knives

9. Okkervil River - I Am Very Far

10. Foo Fighters - Wasting Light

Thanks for another great year!

Happy New Year!

-Justin

Top 10 Songs of 2011

2011-12-28T09:00:00.023-05:00

1. A Lull - "Weapons For War" (taken from Confetti)

Download: http://www.lujorecords.com/media/01_WeaponsForWar.mp3

2. Niki & the Dove - "The Fox" (taken from The Fox 10" Single)

Download: http://assets4.subpop.com/assets/audio/9372.mp3

3. The Head and the Heart - "Lost In My Mind" (taken from The Head And The Heart)

Download: http://assets3.subpop.com/assets/audio/9025.mp3

4. Alert - "All I See Is Red" (taken from Red Opus .45)

Download: http://download1747.mediafire.com/3859e16b6lvg/kr95l5w482v2f1o/All+I+See+Is+Red+Maxi+Single.zip

5. Marcellus Hall - "It's My Life" (taken from The First Line)

6. Ball Of Flame Shoot Fire - "Keep House" (taken from Pots And Knives)

7. Jay-Z & Kanye West - "Otis" (taken from Watch The Throne)

8. Primus - "Tragedy's A-Comin'" (taken from Green Naugahyde)

9. Beans - "Glass Coffins" (taken from End It All)

10. Yourself And The Air - "Bicycles Plus" (taken from Who's Who In The Zoo EP)

Top 5 EPs of 2011

2011-12-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

1. Yourself And The Air - Who's Who In The Zoo

2. Canon Logic - Rapid Empire

3. Belle Adair - Belle Adair

4. Surfer Blood - Tarot Classics

5. TV Girl - Benny And The Jetts

Free Friday: "A Familyre Christmas Volume 4"

2011-12-23T09:00:00.001-05:00

The fourth volume of quirky folk-pop of the Christmas variety from Sounds Familyre Records, the label run by Danielson is being offered as a free download on the label's Bandcamp page. Most of the 18 track album consists of originals but also included are some very unique takes on some of the more traditional classics. Danielson contributes as does DM Stith, Vesper of Ben + Vesper, as well as many of Danielson's friends and family.

Be sure to check out the other 3 volumes also on the Bandcamp page! Merry Christmas!

Download A Familyre Christmas Volume 4 here: http://familyrechristmas.bandcamp.com/album/a-familyre-christmas-volume-4

Dream Concert: The Devil Wears Prada

2011-12-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

With the Dream Concert feature, I pick the songs I would like to hear the most and choose the venue for a hypothetical show with one of my favorite bands that I have yet to witness live.

One of my favorite christian metal bands is The Devil Wears Prada. Their new album, Dead Throne was released on Ferret Records back in September. Building off of last year's Zombie EP and showcasing a new level of technical expertise and maturity the new album is their heaviest and best yet. And I am excited to finally get to see them next week at Bogart's in Cincinnati. Now, I guess if I had to choose a venue it would probably be the Southgate House (which as you know, is my favorite) besides, the grungy Bogart's lends itself well to the pummeling and brutal brand of metalcore TDWP will be sure to bring.

Here is a list of songs I hope they play (Listed by Album):

Dead Throne:

Dead Throne

Vengeneance

Mammoth

Born To Lose

Forever Decay

Chicago

Zombie EP:
Revive

Escape

Outnumbered

With Roots Above And Branches Below:

Assitant To The Regional Manager

Sassafras

Danger: Wildman

Plagues:

The Scorpion Deathlock

Goats On A Boat

Hey John, What's Your Name Again?

Dear Love: A Beautiful Dischord:

Gauntlet Of Solitude

And The Sentence Trails Off...

Salvation

Hopefully I will get to check off quite a few of these songs off of my list...

For tour dates and more info click here: http://www.myspace.com/tdwp and http://www.deadthrone.com/#

3 Songs: An Indie Christmas Volume 2

2011-12-14T09:00:00.024-05:00

1. She & Him - "The Christmas Waltz" (New original Christmas tune taken from A Very She & Him Christmas, out now on Merge.) http://www.sheandhim.com/

Download: http://soundcloud.com/mergerecords/she-him-the-christmas-waltz

2. Tristen - "Frosty The Snowman" (Singer-songwriter turns the old standard into a glittering, Spector-like, doo-wop rock song.) http://tristen.com/

Download: http://bit.ly/Tristen_Frosty

3. Phil And The Osophers - "Brutus The Backup Reindeer" (Brooklyn-based indie-poppers tell the heart-warming and funny tale of Brutus, who fills in for the other reindeer who have fallen ill with the flu.) http://www.philandtheosophers.com/

Download: http://www.philandtheosophers.com/BrutusTheBackupReindeer.mp3

Free Friday: Dear Lions - "Lying To My Lies" EP

2011-12-09T09:00:00.002-05:00

After performing their first show at this year's SXSW and releasing their self-titled debut to high praise in the spring, NYC-based indie rock band Dear Lions have just released their second EP Lying To My Lies as a free download on their Bandcamp page.

With swirling guitars and aching, emotional vocals, they create a dreamy Smiths-loving brand of guitar rock that will have you swooning and swaying along instantly. For fans of The National, The Smiths and The Walkmen.

Download the Lying To My Lies EP here: http://dearlions.bandcamp.com/

For more info click here: http://www.facebook.com/dearlions

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-12-07T09:00:00.003-05:00

1. Sad Baby Wolf - "8th Level" (New project from former Shins member Marty Crandall features his trademark keyboards and vocals and retains some his former band's quirky and gazing melodies yet feels new all the while. The Albuquerque-based five piece are working on their debut album due out next spring!) http://www.sadbabywolf.com/
Download: http://media.audibletreats.com/Sad_Baby_Wolf-8th_Level.mp3

2. Caveman - "Old Friend" (Wide-lensed indie pop with spaced-out synths, wild percussion, walls of guitars along with sharp melodies and multipart harmonies are just some of the highlights from the band's highly praised self released debut album CoCo Beware out now on Magic Man!/ORG Records.) http://cavemantheband.com/

Download: http://www.girlieaction.com/music/caveman/downloads/Old_Friend.mp3

3. Mwahaha - "Deep Sleep (Odd Nosdam Remix)" (The Bay-area psychedelic electronic analog sound-sculpters self-titled debut album is out now which also features vocals by Merrill Garbus of Tune-Yards. Here fellow East Bay resident and Anticon artist Odd Nosdam offers up his scratchy remix of album cut "Deep Sleep".) http://mwahaha.bandcamp.com/album/mwahaha

Download: http://terrorbirddigital.s3.amazonaws.com/publicity/Mwahaha-Sleep_Deep_(Odd_Nosdam_Remix).mp3

Breathe Owl Breathe - "The Listeners/These Train Tracks" 7" and Children's Book

2011-12-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Breathe Owl Breathe are a Michigan based art-folk trio who have just released a new 7" and Children's Book called The Listeners/These Train Tracks. Out today on the RAD label, musician and artist Micah Middaugh wrote and created each block printed page and cover of the limited-edition book consisting of two stories, one which describes a tale of an underground meeting between two outsiders, an Ostrich and a Mole.

This beautifully hand-crafted 7" and book combo makes for the perfect holiday gift for the music-loving kid or adult on your list...

The band is currently on tour and their live show is not to be missed. Seriously. They put on the best and most entertaining show I have seen in years! Check out their live videos on Youtube.

Download "The Listeners" here: http://www.marriagerecs.com/sound/BOBRAD.mp3

For more info, tour dates and to order click here: http://breatheowlbreathe.bandcamp.com/album/the-listeners-these-train-tracks and: http://www.g-rad.org/breatheowlbreathe

Free Friday: Young Galaxy - "Versus"

2011-12-02T09:00:00.001-05:00

The Canadian dream-pop band Young Galaxy has just released Versus, an 11-song collection of the remixes the band has recorded for other artists and they are offering it up on the Paper Bag Records site as a free download. The artists Young Galaxy have remixed include Handsome Furs, Junior Boys, and Grimes as well as fellow label mates CFCF, Johan Agebjorn and Austra.

Tracklist:

1. "Serve The People" (Handsome Furs)

2. "You'll Improve Me" (Junior Boys)

3. "Lose It" (Austra)

4. "Better Off Dead" (The Sounds)

5. "Crystal Ball" (Grimes)

6. "Snake Charmer" (CFCF)

7. "Call Me" (The Pipettes)

8. "Watch The World Go By" (Johan Agebjorn)

9. "Michigan Left" (The Arkells)

10. "Spellwork" (Austra)

11. "This Crowded Room" (Freedom or Death)

Download Versus in exchange for an email here: http://paperbagrecords.com/downloads/ygversus

For more info click here: http://younggalaxy.com/ and http://www.paperbagrecords.com/

Death Cab For Cutie - "Keys and Codes Remix EP"

2011-11-29T09:00:00.003-05:00

Death Cab For Cutie's excellent album Codes And Keys released earlier this year, and the band relied on keyboards and synths more than ever so it is only natural that they would release Keys and Codes, a remix EP. Out last week on Atlantic Records, they enlisted Cut Copy, Ulrich Schnauss, Yeasayer, RAC, Dillon Francis, Unicorn Kid and The 2 Bears to put their own unique spin on 7 of the original Codes And Keys tracks.

Standouts include the glittering 80's time-warp that the Scottish 8-bit producer Unicorn Kid puts on "Unobstructed Views" and the warped bass, squelching synths and minimal vocals that dubstep producer Dillon Francis uses on "Underneath The Sycamore". Ulrich Schnauss uses some subterranean bass to give the standout "Home Is A Fire" a dreamy re-texturing and indie favorites Cut Copy give "Doors Unlocked And Open" a tropical disco vibe.

Track list: (+ streaming song links)

1. "Some Boys" (RAC Maury Mix) http://soundcloud.com/deathcabforcutie/death-cab-for-cutie-some-boys

2. "Doors Unlocked And Open" (Cut Copy Remix)

3. "You Are a Tourist" (The 2 Bears Remix) http://soundcloud.com/deathcabforcutie/youareatourist-the2bearsremix

4. "Underneath the Sycamore" (Dillon Francis Remix)

5. "Unobstructed Views" (Unicorn Kid Remix)

6. "Home Is A Fire" (Ulrich Schnauss Remix) http://soundcloud.com/deathcabforcutie/death-cab-for-cutie-home-is-a/

7. "Codes and Keys" (Yeasayer Remix)

For more info click here: http://keysandcodes.deathcabforcutie.com/ and http://www.deathcabforcutie.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-11-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

1. Sunbears! - "They Think They're Soooo Philosophical" (Jacksonville-based psych-pop duo have graced the stage with Mates Of State and Yo Gabba Gabba on the strength of their EPs and singles and finally are set to release their debut album You Will Live Forever today on New Granada Records.) http://www.sunbearsmusic.com/

Download: http://goldestegg.com/mp3dump/Sunbears_TheyThinkTheyreSooooPhilosophical.mp3

2. Carter Tanton - "Fake Pretend" (Colorful and dreamy new single features vocals from Marissa Nadler as a favor for his guitar duties in her touring band. Carter blends the organic with electronics on his sparkling debut album Freeclouds, released last week on Western Vinyl Records.) http://luxurylinerpleasurecruise.blogspot.com/

Download: http://westernvinyl.com/audio/WV94.FKPTND.mp3

3. Pterodactyl - "Nerds" (Noise-pop nerds deliver their third album Spills Out, released last week on Brah Records, which is run by the likeminded band Oneida. The song gives a shout out to the Zelda theme song. The band is currently on tour to support their excellent new album.) http://www.pteroband.tumblr.com/

Download: http://www.pitchperfectpr.com/mp3/Nerds.mp3

3 Songs: On Repeat (Communicating Vessels Edition)

2011-11-16T09:00:00.001-05:00

Communicating Vessels is the Birmingham, AL-based label run by Jeffery Cain of Remy Zero. He has released music by his solo project Dead Snares as well as the solo project of the late Gregory Scott Slay, the drummer for Remy Zero who passed away last year.

Cain has also been signing and spotlighting some of his hometown's best songwriters, three at a time, with a gorgeously packaged 7" for each one in a series. The first series released this past June, included Duquette Johnston, formerly of 90's alt-rockers Verbena, The Great Book of John, the solo project of Taylor Shaw formerly of Wild Sweet Orange and Sanders Bohlke.

The second series of 7" singles come from three more diverse Birmingham bands including, indie rap group The Green Seed, husband and wife duo The Grenadines, who are currently on tour with Maria Taylor and singer-songwriter Preston Lovinggood, who was also a member of cult-favortites Wild Sweet Orange.

1. The Green Seed - "Crack Kills" (Indie rap group whose clever beats and rhymes provided by members R-Tist, C.O.M.P.L.E.T. and DJ FX have led them to sharing the stage with Raekwon and Jurassic 5.)

Download: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38730955/mp3/thegreenseed_crackkills_4_18.mp3

2. Preston Lovinggood - "Duncan" (After label woes brought an end to Wild Sweet Orange, Preston took a long break from music but has just recently started work on a new solo album with an atmospheric yet breezy cover of the Paul Simon track as an idea of what to expect.)

Download: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38730955/mp3/prestonlovinggood_duncan_4_18.mp3

3. The Grenadines - "Shake" (Slinky and danceable disco with male/female vocals from the duo who has gained praise from producers Jim Eno of Spoon and Andy LeMaster (Bright Eyes) who helped produce their debut.)

Download: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38730955/mp3/thegrenadines_shake_4_18.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.communicatingvessels.net/

Karen Dahlstrom - "Gem State" EP

2011-11-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

Karen Dahlstrom of the indie folk band Bobtown is a Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter of the traditional Americana variety. The Gem State EP is her long-awaited self released solo debut release. She was born and raised in idyllic Idaho which is known as the “Gem State”, hence the title of the sparkling EP. The organic acoustic-based five song collection of traditional folk was inspired by her home state after she noticed that the Western states lacked the musical history that the South and other regions of the country possessed. So she took it upon herself to create some of her own and her descriptive lyrical themes of railroads, trains, mountains and miners are based on the state’s rich history as well as her own experiences in her hometown of Boise. The music references and is reverent to the bluegrass, old time country and folk traditions of the past but with a slight modern twist. Even the beautiful album artwork, created by her friend, New York City based graphic designer and illustrator Becky Munich, is a rustic wood-burned-like portrait that invokes the spirit of the music and the state of Idaho perfectly, completes the package.

“The Miner’s Bride” opens the EP with a driving, lap slapping bluegrass inspired rhythm, ghostly background vocals that swirl like the cold wind she sings of and whining steel guitar that sets the tone for a story about love and loss and a nineteenth century mining camp for a perfect introduction to her retro folk sound. The slow waltzing “Galena” follows, featuring bellowing accordion and Karen’s yearning and pining vocals that possess the same smoky, worn around the edges quality of Adele or Chan Marshall of Cat Power along with the authenticity of Gillian Welch. “Starling” is an emotional and haunting ode to lovelorn regret with gently strummed acoustic guitars, flickering mandolin figures and a mournful vocal that perfectly captures the melancholic darkness of Southern Gothic Americana music. The sepia-toned standout track “Streets Of Pocatello” is a room-filling acapella-sung Appalachian Mountain ballad of revenge set in a rough railroad town. The song is performed with a soulful, convincing swagger that might suggest Karen is just pawning off some of the dusty records she found in her grandparent’s attic as her own because it is simply that good and that true to the tradition without even a stitch of pastiche or off-putting pretentiousness. The evocative “One More Time” closes out the rootsy EP with a more straight forward approach with gospel-soaked vintage organ, steady strummed acoustic guitar and gorgeous, close knit vocal harmonies. Karen longs for summers past and an old flame on the stand out song that was co-written by multi-instrumentalist Kenny Siegel of fellow New York City based folk band Johnny Society who also mixed, engineered and co-produced and performed on the excellent EP.

With her beautiful voice and strong songwriting bearing the torch of tradition every song feels instantly familiar, like any classic record should. And after finally striking out on her own, Karen Dahlstrom proves with Gem State, her promising debut EP that she is an artist on the rise and should be considered a major player in the traditional American folk revival.

For more info click here: http://karendahlstrom.com/

Free Friday: Lightouts - "The Eloise Suite" (Maxi-Single)

2011-11-11T09:00:00.004-05:00

The Brooklyn-based duo Lightouts create a fuzzed-out guitar-led sound that leans towards 90's indie rock and are gearing up to release their debut album soon. And in anticipation, have been releasing singles from the album as free downloads over the last few months. Each maxi-single includes a single from the album as well as a B-side and an exclusive cover song.

The third in the series, The Eloise Suite features the crunchy guitars, handclaps and catchy echoing chorus of the title track. "Dress Shop", the B-side competes with the single with a liquid bassline and Cure-like melodies. And the cover included is "All I Want/Heroes", a clever and danceable mashup of LCD Soundsystem's "All I Want" and Bowie's "Heroes".

Download the single The Eloise Suite here:

For more info click here: http://www.lightouts.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-11-09T09:00:00.002-05:00

1. Summer Camp - "Better Off Without You" (The London duo Jeremy Warmsley and Elizabeth Sankey have created an 80's obsessed tribute to being a teenager and all of the wonder, angst and synths that go along with it on their highly anticipated debut album Welcome To Condale out now on Moshi Moshi Records.) http://www.wearesummercamp.com/

Download: http://www.zshare.net/audio/95885628a1b03eca/

2. 13ghosts - "Dr. Bill" (First track from the experimental folk rock band's guest-heavy new album Garland of Bottle Flies out now on Skybucket Records. Frontman Brad Armstrong is joined by guest vocalist Kate Taylor, sister of Maria Taylor and Taylor Hollingsworth of Conor Oberst's The Mystic Valley Band, among others.) http://13ghostsmusic.com/ and http://www.skybucket.com/

Download: http://www.skybucket.com/mp3/05%20Dr.%20Bill.mp3

3. Zun Zun Egui - "Fandango Fresh" (The Afrobeat freakout of a first single from the energetic and eclectic Bristol-based indie-pop band's debut album Katang, out now on Bella Union.) http://www.zunzunegui.org/

Download: http://sneakattackmedia.com/media/ZZE/FandangoFresh.mp3

Lissie - "Covered Up With Flowers" EP

2011-11-08T09:00:00.002-05:00

On the heels of Catching A Tiger her acclaimed debut album, Lissie returns today with the release of her new EP of cover songs, Covered Up With Flowers. The Youtube videos of her amazing covers have been lighting up the internet for a while so it was only natural that the folk-pop siren would release this fan-friendly 5-song EP.

Lissie shows her "gangsta" side with live a cover of Kid Cudi's hit "Pursuit Of Happiness". And she shows off her pop side with a sing-along cover of Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" recoded live in London, where she adds in a handclap and acapella back-porch hootenanny outro to put her own folk spin on the song. The standout track on the EP is Lissie's twangy and soulful studio-recorded cover of the enigmatic 60's singer-songwriter Joe South's Grammy-winning track, "Games People Play" which features fellow labelmate Tyler Ramsey of Band Of Horses on guitar and piano. She follows that with a beautiful, very faithful live cover of Metallica's Black Album ballad "Nothing Else Matters" but she fortunately omits Hetfield's trademark "ooh-aah"-grunts after every line. The excellent EP closes with a studio recorded cover of "The Ship Song" by Nick Cave which includes production and instrumentation from Bill Reynolds of Band Of Horses.

With the Covered Up With Flowers EP, Lissie shows off the different sides of her musical taste and style while showcasing her dynamic live performances and unique voice.

For more info click here: http://www.lissie.com/ and http://www.fatpossum.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-11-02T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. The Fling - "Dogpile" (Trippy and reverb-soaked first single with layers of spacey country vocal harmonies taken from their new 7-song What I've Seen EP out now on Dangerbird Records, who also re-released their excellent debut album When The Madhouses Appear this past May.) http://thefling.us/

Download: http://dl.dangerbirdrecords.com/the-fling/mp3/dogpile.mp3

2. Treefight For Sunlight - "Facing The Sun" (First single of twinkling and twee psych pop from the Denmark-based band's sun-drenched 70's pop-loving debut album A Collection Of Vibrations For Your Skull due out next week on Friendly Fire Records.) http://www.treefightforsunlight.com/

Download: http://friendlyfirerecordings.com/Bands/TreefightForSunlight/treefightforsunlight-facingthesun.mp3

3. Sandman Viper Command - "Rough Love" (These four Canadians put their own unique spin on 60's pop stylings and Sloan-like crunchy power-pop on the title track to their new single, out now.) http://sandmanvipercommand.wordpress.com/

Download: http://media.audibletreats.com/Sandman_Viper_Command-Rough_Love.mp3

Free Friday: And The Giraffe - "Something For Someone"

2011-10-28T09:00:00.002-04:00

And The Giraffe are an ambient dream-folk duo and they have recently self-released their self-produced debut EP Something For Someone for everyone as a free download on their Bandcamp page. Gainsville, FL-based multi-instrumentalists Nick Roberts and Josh Morris trade vocal duties on every other song and create a wispy, hushed brand of folk with ethereal arrangements and interesting lyrics.

"Underground Love" opens the album with a Modest Mouse-like cascading and echoing guitar riff, a marching band beat and a soft saxophone solo. A syrup-slow pace on the atmospheric standout "1055" brings to mind mid-90's "slowcore". Another standout, "Magic 8" fills every space with emotional ambience. The slow-waltzing "Masquerade" features layers of stummed acoustic guitars and ringing electric guitar that rise and crash to end the song with the loudest moment on the EP. And the cinematic and melodic "Still" closes out the excellent 6-song EP. They make music for blustery days and lonely nights.

Download Something For Someone here: http://andthegiraffe.bandcamp.com/

For more info click here: http://www.andthegiraffe.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-10-26T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Russian Circles - "Mladek" (The Chicago post-rock instrumentalists return with Empros, their new album out now on Sargent House. The trio mixes in shadowy Black Metal extremes with propulsive Krautrock on their heaviest album yet.) http://www.russiancirclesband.com/

Download: http://www.sargenthouse.com/russiancircles/Mladek.mp3

2. Peggy Sue - "Cut My Teeth" (Six-minute opening track sets the tone for the London/Brighton-based trio's louder, electrified sound on their sophomore album Acrobats, out now on Yep Roc Records. Singer/guitarists Katy and Rosa along with drummer Olly abandoned their critically acclaimed acoustic folk for an excellent blast of Sonic Youth and Breeders style early 90's punk.) http://peggywho.com/

Download: http://loudfeed.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/22220/01_Cut_My_Teeth.mp3

3. Dntel - "(This Is) The Dream Of Evan And Chan" (Sub Pop is re-issuing an expanded edition of Jimmy Tamborello's 2001 album Life Is Full Of Possibilities which was originally released by the Plug Research label. Most known for The Postal Service, his collaboration with Ben Gibbard of Death Cab For Cutie, this song, featuring Ben was the spark for that project. The 2-disc or LP set includes new remixes as well as B-sides.) http://www.subpop.com/releases/dntel/full_lengths/life_is_full_of_possibilities_deluxe

Download: http://assets3.subpop.com/assets/audio/10613.mp3

Gregory Scott Slay - "Horsethief Beats (The Sound Will Find You)"

2011-10-25T09:00:00.003-04:00

Horsethief Beats is the posthumous album of Gregory Scott Slay, the late drummer of Remy Zero. The album was released last week on Communicating Vessels, the record label owned and ran by his fellow Remy Zero band mate Jeffrey Cain. Slay died on January 1st, 2010 but worked furiously over the years prior on this beat-driven album that is filled with both resignation and hope.

The album opens with the hauntingly atmospheric intro "Moony Pt. 1" with the voices of his wife and daughter echoing in the ether. The first single "Keep It Secret" features a scratchy hip-hop beat, flickering guitars from Cain and some seriously skronky saxophone provided by Slay's father Han. The sinister and slinky "Kindred Spirit" with its off-kilter rhythm and crackling noises stands out with strong lyrics that taunt the disease (Cystic Fibrosis) that he was battling. The futuristic funk of "New Loop, Old Hope" features more saxophone with pounding piano notes, and spacey side-swiping synths. "Visit With A Snowman" sounds like it was broadcast from a dimly-lit, back alley with a shadowy spoken word-like vocal. "Birds Next Door" creates a barren atmosphere with a plodding beat and droning synths. "Hidden Among The Somethings" is upbeat with a soulful vocal and a noisy cresendo to end the song. Another standout, "And When She Speaks" features a Afro-pop inspired beat with 80's synths and a rafters-reaching chorus. Building off of the theme of Pt. 1, the album closes with "Moony Pt. 2" and some more sweet baby talk samples from his daughter, Honeymoon.

Horsethief Beats was created with a palpable sense of urgency that can be felt in every beat and is a lasting and final testament to Gregory Scott Slay's excellent musical career.

Download "Kindred Spirit" here: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38730955/mp3/gregoryscottslay_kindredspirit_5_15.mp3

Download "Keep It Secret" here: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38730955/mp3/gregoryscottslay_keepitsecret_3_16_12.mp3

For more info click here: http://communicatingvessels.net/

Stream the album here: http://horsethiefbeats.bandcamp.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-10-19T09:00:00.002-04:00

1. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - "Yellow Missing Signs" (Super-poppy synth-driven track shows another side of the band. Released today on Polyvinyl Records, Tape Club is their 2-disc, 26-song collection of B-sides and home recordings archived over the band's 10 years together. You can stream the whole thing here: www.sslyby.bandcamp.com/album/tape-club)

Download: http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/dl.php?id=0884031207280714

2. Turf War - "For The Last Time" (Super-catchy and energetic, punk-flavored garage rock band hails from Atlanta whose debut, Years of Living Dangerously, out now on Old Flame Records, was produced by the like-minded Ian St. Pé of The Black Lips.) www.facebook.com/turfwarusa

Download: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38730955/mp3/turfwar_forthelasttime.mp3

3. Pujol - "Mayday" (Electrifying first single from his new EP Nasty, Brutish and Short, his 10th release in the last two years and first for Saddle Creek Records. A gritty, T. Rex-inspired lo-fi garage rock party from Nashville.) http://pujoldotcom.com/

Download:

Ryan Adams - "Ashes & Fire"

2011-10-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

Ryan Adams returned last week with his new album Ashes & Fire, released on Adam’s own imprint PAX-AM through Capitol Records. The gorgeous album was produced by the legendary producer Glyn Johns (The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who) and takes on a more mature Adult Alternative-leaning sound while also focusing the spotlight on his soulful vocals and somber lyrics. Also, gone are the Cardinals, his long-time backing band and in their place, Norah Jones provides her jazz-folk piano prowess and vocal harmonies, and Benmont Tench of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers adds his piano and Hammond organ assistance, along with Ryan’s wife Mandy Moore and Chris Stills, who provide background vocals to the excellent guest-heavy album.

The album opens with the slow-building “Dirty Rain” and its classic country vocal delivery and acoustic guitar strumming alongside Norah’s jazzy piano. The title track, “Ashes & Fire” is a stand out with honky-tonkin’ piano and a twangy electric guitar solo. The aching long-distance love song, “Come Home” features hushed vocal harmonies from the trio of Norah, Moore, and Stephen Still’s son Chris. “Do I Wait” provides the album’s loudest moment with a psychedelic, organ-filled 70’s style freakout to end the song. And the upbeat “Chains Of Love” follows with a moving string arrangement and gospel-inspired vocals. “Invisible Riverside” stands out with a rich, earthy guitar tone and a bluesy vocal melody, clearly indebted to Chris Still’s underrated solo work. Another standout is the stirring, slow-waltzing beauty of “Kindness” and its 70’s-esque melodies and swells of vintage organ.

Ryan Adams clearly stepped up his game to match up with his excellent guests and Ashes & Fire is his most cohesive and best album since his breakout Heartbreaker.

For more info click here: http://paxamrecords.com/

Free Friday: Belle Adair - "EP"

2011-10-14T09:00:00.002-04:00

Muscle Shoals, Alabama-based folk-pop band Belle Adair have just released a new 7" on Speak/Sing Records after self-releasing their sel-titled debut EP on their own in January. The band, led by singer-songwriter and guitarist Matt Green is preparing to record their debut full-length album this fall, with plans to release it next year. In anticipation and in celebration of their 7" release, the band is giving away their EP as a free download on their Bandcamp page.

The six-song EP opens with the sprawling, slow-burning ambient folk of "STN", featuring Matt Green's inviting vocals which are reminiscent of Eric Johnson's of the Fruit Bats. "No Reply" is a slice of slightly jaunty folk-pop in the vein of early Wilco. And the power-pop of "Paris Is Free" stands out with room-filling vintage organ and dueling guitars. All of the songs have crafty arrangements and "Happy To Pretend" adds banjo, harmonica, dobro, Wurlitzer and a fuzzed-out bass line to the mix with everything fitting right into place. "Eye To Eye" is a piano-led ballad with beautiful harmonies and Beatles-esque melodies. "History Of Dreams" closes out the excellent EP with ethereal female guest vocals from Amber Murray.

Download the Belle Adair EP here: http://belleadair.bandcamp.com/

For more info click here: http://www.belleadairmusic.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-10-12T09:00:00.000-04:00

1. Casiokids - "Det Haster!" (The super-catchy and danceable first single from the Denmark band's first official full-length Aabenbaringen over aaskammen, which translates to "The Revelation Over The Mountain" and is out now on Polyvinyl. You may not have any idea what they are saying but their upbeat, synth-laden dance grooves are universal!) http://www.casiokids.com/

Download: http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/dl.php?id=0884031206860686

2. Still Corners - "Cuckoo" (The delicate breathy vocals of singer Tessa Murray are the perfect match for London-based songwriter Greg Hughes' retro yet modern brand of cinematic and atmospheric soundscapes. Featuring 80's-inspired synths and thin New Order-esque guitar lines, their stunning debut album Creatures Of An Hour is out now on Sub Pop.) http://stillcorners.tumblr.com/

Download: http://assets3.subpop.com/assets/audio/10415.mp3

3. Witches - "Black Dog" (Jangly 90's indie rock-inspired guitars and subtle melodies abound on the single from Athens, GA-based trio led by vocalist/guitarist Cara Beth Satalino whose excellent debut album Forever was released on Bakery Outlet Records (Holpaw, Landlord) in June. Look for a solo album from Cara soon...) http://witchesathens.blogspot.com/

Download: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38730955/mp3/witches_blackdog.mp3

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-10-05T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Loney Dear - "My Heart" (Church bells chime on the first single from Emil Svanangen's sixth and most grandiose album yet, Hall Music, out now on Polyvinyl. The emotionally charged new album wraps itself around you with complex, orchestrated arrangments split between the synthesized and organic with an understated beauty.) http://loneydear.com/

Download: http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/dl.php?id=0884030607980686

2. Talkdemonic - "Revival" (Portland-based intrumental duo Kevin O'Connor (percussion, programming) and Lisa Molinaro (viola) return with Ruins, their excellent new album out now on Isaac Brock's (Modest Mouse) label Glacial Pace Recordings. The dynamic album is filled with spacey and textural soundscapes that depict both lightness and darkness.) http://www.talkdemonic.com/

Download: http://soundcloud.com/pma/revival-by-talkdemonic

3. Guineafowl - "Little Fingers" (Australian songwriter creates an anthemic lyrical painting set to propulsive synth-based electro-rock on the first single from his debut EP Hello Anxiety out now on Dangerbird Records.) www.myspace.com/guineafowl

Download: http://www.dl.dangerbird.com/guineafowl/mp3/littl-fingers.mp3

Interview: Extra Classic

2011-10-04T09:00:00.016-04:00

Extra Classic is the new dub and reggae inspired project from Adrianne Verhoeven (The Anniversary, Dri, Art In Manila) and Alex deLanda. Their excellent debut album Your Light Like White Lightning, Your Light Like A Laser was released last week digitally on Manimal Vinyl, with a physical release to follow. An homage to the Jamaican records that inspired them, the album was recorded authentically on all analog equipment to deliver a warm, rich tone that complements their psychedelic brand of reggae and Dri's soulful vocals well.

Below is an interview with "Dri" from Extra Classic, where she explains the positives and negatives of working with all analog equipment, her musical influences and she tells of the hottest show she ever performed and the possibility of a supergroup she might be involved in...

***

Atlas and the Anchor: Since the break up of The Anniversary, you have been involved in many different projects like Fourth Of July, Art In Manila and your own solo album under the name "Dri". What influenced you to record a dub-inspired reggae album?

Adrianne: Looking back, it seems like a very natural progression. I feel when listening to my "Smoke Rings" album (Dri) that the sound/style that we moved towards was starting to shimmer through a bit. Once Alex and I began writing songs together, it happened very naturally. Alex and I have garnered a pretty solid collection of Jamaican albums, so we were influenced by the music that we were listening to. Also, it was a very conscious decision, with how we decided to record the album- all analog, on 8 tracks, bouncing tracks, etc. The processes we chose to use were very mid-late 70s - Lee "Scratch" Perry - Black Ark - inspired. Our music is as much 3D Psychedelic as it is dub-inspired...

AA: You seem to be a musical chameleon! What are your biggest musical influences?

Dri: My biggest influences musically are strong female singers, huayño and cumbia Andean Music, functional music and music that lets the soul shine through.

AA: You recorded the album with a vintage analog approach. What were the positives and negatives from that experience?

Dri: Positive Experiences: bottom line, analog sounds better sonically. Also, for what we did on "Your Light Like White Lightning, Your Light Like A Laser Beam", the recording and the songs were an integral process. We wrote the songs with recording analog 8 track in mind. So, the analog recording process affected the song writing process and vice versa.
Negative Experiences: technical difficulties- regular technical and mechanical problems throughout the recording process. For example, a broken tape machine in the middle of recording isn't a fun experience.

AA: The cadence of the vocals on "Metal Tiger" makes it my favorite song on the album. What is your favorite track and why?

Dri: I don't necessarily have a favorite track...I feel as if our album is quite eclectic though at the same time very cohesive. All of the songs are challenging in their own ways and I love singing/preforming all of them with our band.

AA: You are getting ready for a short West coast tour to promote the album with Moonface, the new project from Spencer Krug of Wolf Parade, but are there any plans for a longer tour in the near future?

Dri: Absolutely, we're working on more and more shows and tours and we're shooting to travel overseas to play (hopefully before the year is over!). Our official vinyl gatefold LP release show for the album is here in San Francisco on October 26th at the Make Out Room. King Tuff is headlining and Audacity is also playing. We'll play in between the two bands. Good times.

AA: You have toured and collaborated with many great artists but in a dream scenario, who would you most like to collaborate with?

Dri: Gram Parsons

AA: I interviewed Orenda Fink a couple of years ago and she told me about how you and her were talking at SXSW about starting a project with Laura Burhenn. That would be a "dream collaboration" in my opinion. Has any progress been made with that? What other projects are you currently working on?

Dri: I'll have to remind Orenda and Laura about that - it would be dreamy! That would be a treat...we have all been very busy with our respective projects this year. Orenda is as prolific as ever with music & art- she is always very inspiring to me, and Laura put together the beautiful Mynabirds album and has been touring this year with Bright Eyes. Alex and I are currently working on writing new songs for our next Extra Classic album, which we're very excited about!

AA: Zach at Range Life Records he told me that one of my favorite bands Fourth Of July are recording a new album. Will you be contributing to it to complete the hat trick as you were featured on both of their first two albums?

Dri: I believe I will be contributing some vocals to the album, yes. I spoke with Brendan (Hangauer) about it when I was in Lawrence, KS last month. From what I hear, Fourth of July have begun recording and it's going great!

AA: What one current and one older song do you wish you would have written yourself?

Dri: "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man" written by Chips Moman and Dan Penn (older) & "Horserider's Smile" by Hanz Bronze (current)

AA: What music are you currently listening to?

Dri: We listen to so much music it's hard to articulate one thing. Tonight we listened to "Meat is Murder" by the Smiths. We're also listening to a lot of Wackies records. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wackies

AA: Well, I am sure you remember meeting me at the gas station after your show with the Get Up Kids in Indianapolis in 2000...That was one of my favorite shows of all time with Koufax, The Anniversary and The Get Up Kids!

Dri: Wow, Awesome. I think that was the hottest show we ever played, no joke. So cool that you were there- I totally recall the gas station encounter- haha!
Thank you, Justin. Happy to do the interview- thank you for the opportunity. We appreciate the support.

***

Stream "You Can't Bring Me Down" here: http://soundcloud.com/extra_classic/you-cant-bring-me-down-from-45

For more info click here: http://www.extraclassic.blogspot.com/ and http://manimalvinyl.com/

Free Friday: New War - "Ghostwalking"

2011-09-30T09:00:00.003-04:00

Australian band New War is the new dance-oriented project from Chris and Melissa, former members of Seattle band Shoplifting (Kill Rock Stars). Their debut full-length Calling From Inside is due out March of 2012 on Fast Weapons Records, the label run by Nathan Howdeshell of Gossip. In anticipation, they have released their debut single Ghostwalking 12" on vinyl with the digital version available as a free download on the Fast Weapons Bandcamp site.

The percussion-heavy single, "Ghostwalking" is ethereal and haunting with spaced-out synths and hypnotic vocals for a perfect introduction to the band who has shared the stage with Gossip, Jandek and Wire. Also included are a club-ready remix of the track by Gossip and an other-worldly, deconstructed live remix by HTRK.

Download the Ghostwalking 12" here: http://fastweapons.bandcamp.com/album/ghostwalking-12

For more info click here: www.myspace.com/newwarmusic

On Repeat: 4 Songs

2011-09-28T09:00:00.006-04:00

1. Dum Dum Girls - "Coming Down" (The reverb-rich track sways like Mazzy Star, and is taken from their stellar second album, Only In Dreams out now on Sub Pop. The new album is more polished and a step forward with a full-band approach that really showcases Dee Dee's deft songwriting that was always hiding under all the lo-fi haze.) http://wearedumdumgirls.com/

Download: http://assets4.subpop.com/assets/audio/10068.mp3

2. Craig Wedren - "Cupid" (Noisy and angular guitars with an off-kilter rhythm mix with his trademark croon on this stand out track from the Shudder To Think frontman's new solo album Wand, released this week on Nerveland Recordings. After focusing on movie soundtracks, it is great to hear Craig rock out again!) http://craigwedren.com/

Download: http://sneakattackmedia.com/media/811/CraigWedren_Cupid.mp3

3. Dominant Legs - "Where We Trip The Light" (Ryan William Lynch, the former Girls guitarist has returned with a full band and their debut album, Invitation, is out now on Lefse Records. Poly-rhythms and 80's synths abound, sounding like a love lorn, long lost Talking Heads album!) www.myspace.com/dominantlegs

Download: http://www.tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/dl_WhereWeTripTheLight.mp3

4. Telekinesis - "Car Crash" (The anthemic, power-poppy first single from Michael Benjamin Lerner's highly anticipated sophomore album 12 Desperate Straight Lines was released earlier this year on Merge Records. You can catch the band on tour with album producer Chris Walla's like-minded band Death Cab For Cutie now!) http://telekinesismusic.com/

Download: http://www.mergerecords.com/audio/telekinesis/carcrash.mp3

Derek Lee Bishop - "Better Days"

2011-09-27T09:00:00.001-04:00

Singer-songwriter and North Carolina native Derek Lee Bishop has just recently self-released his debut album Better Days. Derek Lee Bishop creates a hushed homespun brand of blues-oriented indie folk in the same vein as Iron & Wine with quieted yet confident vocals and rootsy finger-style guitars, while maintaining a widely accessible appeal similar to other singer-songwriters such as David Gray and John Mayer. Bishop began his musical endeavor training in classical guitar and piano and wrote the songs that ended up on Better Days while playing in coffee shops. His approach to songwriting is blended with a touch of both of those elements, highlighting a strong grasp of melody with intricate yet sparse arrangements that make the most out of each song. His voice is rich, warm and inviting and his songs are instantly familiar like a bear hug from a long lost friend. Lyrically, he focuses on his Christian faith and related themes such as love, forgiveness, hope and family.

“Sweet Pardon” opens the album with a passionate, dashboard confessional of Derek’s deep and breathy voice set to striking piano chords and cascading acoustic guitars in front of a wall of gospel tinged organ. The title track, “Better Days” features a positive message, endearing vocals and entrancing cyclical guitar figures along with a poppy, sing along chorus. The mid-tempo stand out track “Not Of This World” introduces drums and bass into the mix for a rollicking, bluesy shuffle that invokes the soulful swagger of early Ben Harper and showcases Bishop’s wide range and skill, to give you a glimpse at what he would sound like leading a full band on a larger stage as opposed to alone in the coffee shop. The ballad-y “I Need You” follows with sweet, close knit vocal harmonies and beautiful, chiming guitar harmonics for another standout moment on a love song to the Holy Spirit. “What You Know” features a laid back and bluesy back porch vibe, while lyrically he reminds us that it’s not what treasures we try to amass here on Earth that are important but that we seek out and rely upon the knowledge of God. In keeping with that theme, “In The Shade” is a solemn and reverent prayer of forgiveness and hope with gorgeous, gentle vocal harmonies and lightly played hand drums that propel the song. Acting as the perfect showcase for Bishop’s classical guitar training, “Romance (Let It Be)” features guitars brushed with a hint of Spanish flair and the song takes on an “Old World” quality complete with a waltzing tempo and an accordion solo. The eight song album closes out with the aptly titled “Julie’s Lullaby”; the song captures a dream-like state with gently picked acoustic guitars with a velvety tone and lilting melodies.

So if you are in the camp that thought Iron & Wine got a little experimental or even if you just pine for rustic and charming singer-songwriter fare, Derek Lee Bishop and his excellent debut album Better Days will perfectly fill that void for you and then some. Plus, you can feel good that the money you spend on the album is going to a couple of great causes. Because as a Christian, Derek has a heavy heart for giving and serving so he has chosen to donate all of his proceeds from the sales of his album Better Days, to various charities. Most notably, Project Red Light Rescue which provides education and a way out for prostitutes around the world and Gospel For Asia, which seeks to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those, especially in the over-populated continent of Asia that have not heard of Him. So, a great message, a great cause and a great sound…Better Days, is a can’t miss!

For more info click here: http://derekleebishop.com/

Interview: Dave Nelson

2011-09-23T09:00:00.003-04:00

Brooklyn-based trombonist and composer Dave Nelson has self-released his debut EP Logistic Minutia this week. He fuses an intriguing mix of jazz and classical theories with electronics and indie rock on the four-song EP. You might recognize Dave from playing alongside some of your favorite indie rock bands, like The National, Spoon, and Sufjan Stevens among others.

In this interview with Dave, you can get some insight into what it is like being a classically trained performer in the indie rock world and how both of those experiences helped shape the compositions on his excellent debut Logistic Minutia.

***

Atlas and the Anchor: You have played as a trombonist with an impressive list of indie rock bands like The National, Spoon, Sufjan Stevens and Jónsi of Sigur Ros. How did those experiences influence you while composing the jazz-rock fusion on your debut EP Logistic Minutia?

Dave Nelson: I think the biggest influence was just having a front row seat in observing how great artists work. It gave me the confidence to move forward with my own ideas and to think bigger than just being a trombonist. I've always kept notebooks full of ideas and sketches "for the future" but never really got around to developing them. Seeing those guys actually doing something and going for it inspired me to give a shot at producing my own work.

AA: You have also played alongside legendary Jazz guitarist Stanley Clarke, that had to have been amazing! In a dream scenario, who would you like to collaborate with?

DN: That's easy, it would have to be Frank Zappa circa 1973. He's one of my biggest influences early on. I probably spent 7 or 8 years in high school and college obsessing over his albums to the point that I could sing along with every melody, counter melody, and instrumental solo. Of course, he's no longer with us, so this is indeed a dream scenario. Present day, maybe Trey Anastasio...

AA: Your background is in classical music and you have performed with New York City ensembles The Knight Orchestra and the International Contemporary Ensemble (ICE) as well as on Broadway. What excites you the most about performing with indie rock bands and with classical ensembles? It seems like you have no limitations coming from both angles.

DN: Just being able to freely move between the two worlds is probably the most exciting thing. Lucky for me, I seem to have come to NYC at a time when the lines between the two genres are being blurred in a really appealing way. Great indie artists and "classical" composers are collaborating and drawing from each other so frequently which creates an ideal environment for a musician like me. Actually, my earliest background was in jazz and rock. Playing in so many bands down in Athens, GA created a great musical foundation so that later, when I delved into more of the classical worlds, I was able to keep a broader perspective on the music. So now, having the opportunity to work with indie rock artists is like coming full circle and perfectly encapsulates all my experiences so far.

AA: I love the depth of texture the synth provides in your compositions. How did you approach composing for the EP, did you think like a rock musician or classical, or was it a mix of both?

DN: Thanks! My original concept was to write little minimalist chamber pieces for a rock band setting. So, in that sense I was definitely approaching it like a composer. But, there were definitely times when I just hit record and started improvising too. Occasionally an idea would stick and be strong enough to add to or continue the composing process, and things would keep moving along in that way. So, it's probably a healthy mix of unfiltered inspiration and over thinking!

AA: The intergalactic funky groove of “Sequence”, the first track on Logistic Minutia is probably my favorite on the album. What is your favorite song or passage on the album and why?

DN: I have a strange attachment to the title track "Logistic Minutia", probably because I obsessed over the composition and rhythmic detail of that one in particular. Lot of ins, lots of outs, lots of what-have-you's in there - composition techniques and so forth. That doesn't necessarily make a song good though. "Sequence" has gotten a great response which is funny because it started out with me just playing around and improvising on the synth. After another song or two didn't materialize for the EP, I decided last minute, "Hey, maybe this sequence thing could work..." So I filled out the arrangement and rolled with it, and it turned out to be a lot of fun to produce. I think there's a compositional lesson there that hopefully I'll absorb one of these days.

AA: Your debut EP was just released but are you currently writing for a full-length or are you working on any other new projects of note?

DN: I am working on a new project that's shaping up to be pretty quirky. There are at least 5 parts or movements based on a particular concept, and I'm considering expanding it to a full length as well. I've got some sessions planned with my drummer friend Marlon Patton down in his Atlanta studio, and I'm excited to see what happens there.

AA: What one older and current song do you wish you would have written yourself?

DN: Hmm... that's a tough one. Probably some classic from the Beatles like "Yesterday" for the older one. And "Sprawl II" by Arcade Fire would be the current song.

AA: What music are you currently listening to?

DN: Kaputt by Destroyer and Teen Dream by Beach House have been my soundtrack for the last month or so. The melodies are just so good. Just recently, I've been digging on St. Vincent's new album, Strange Mercy.

***

Download "Sequence" here: http://dave-nelson.bandcamp.com/

For more info click here: http://www.dnelmusic.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-09-21T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Say My Name - "La Cygne" (The noir-ish fever-dream of a first single from Say My Name 2, the new album by the Lawrence, Kansas beat maker and soundscaper was created with a mix of both live intruments and dusty samples. Out now on Range Life Records.) http://www.rangeliferecords.com/albums/Say-My-Name-2/

Download: http://c841.r41.cf1.rackcdn.com/09%20La%20Cygne.mp3

2. WATERS - "For The One" (Most artists go from loud to soft on their solo albums but the crunchy, 90's-like guitar-driven new project from former Port O'Brien front man Van Pierszalowski is an about face from the rich, organic folk sounds of his primary band and a welcome change! The debut album Out In The Light is out now on TBD Records.)

Download: http://www.cobracamanda.com/MP3/For_The_One.mp3

3. Saves The Day - "Deranged & Desperate (Acoustic Version)" (Acoustic take on the lead single from the NJ emo-survivor's new album Daybreak, their first for new label Razor & Tie Records. The FYE exclusive version contains a bonus CD of the acoustic versions of entire album, which completes the trilogy started with 2006's Sound The Alarm. Catch them on tour now with Bayside.) http://savestheday.com/home/

Download: http://www.razorandtiepublicity.com/savestheday/STD-DD_acoustic.mp3

Thrice - "Major/Minor"

2011-09-20T09:00:00.001-04:00

Thrice return with their new album Major/Minor, out today on Vagrant Records. The band, known for their ambitious and forward-thinking sound have returned to their roots for the new album. Though still atmospheric and experimental at the core, the back to basics approach incorporates crunchy guitars and fat bass lines that instantly invoke 90’s era grunge; even vocalist/guitarist Dustin Kensrue adopts the soaring vocal qualities of Chris Cornell, without pastiche. The album title is a play off of the yin and yang symbolism with a contrast of light and dark themes both musically and lyrically.

Blurring the edges between Thrice, Soundgarden and even Tool, the one-two punch of “Yellow Belly” and “Promises” open the album with loose, distorted bass lines, rumbling drums and huge, anthemic choruses that feel instantly familiar and new at the same time. The upbeat “Blinded” opens with a guitar riff that smells like teen spirit and features tumbling drums that just barely maintain control on the standout track. “Cataracts” is a perfect example of the theme of the album, splitting the difference with a chugging and stomping heaviness and spiky guitars and a soaring chorus. “Treading Paper” is spacious and atmospheric with a palpable emotional weight with ringing, skyward guitars that match the yearning in the vocals. The aptly titled, “Blur” opens in a flurry of guitars then trades in the intensity on the verses with whale call-like guitar harmonics and the closest thing to a breakdown in years, to end the stand out track. Another standout, “Anthology” hits hard with big, open chords and an even bigger chorus, even incorporating a little of the dirt road twang of Dustin’s solo work. The eleven track album closes with the arena-sized “Disarmed” and its room-filling vintage organ and sing-along “whoa, oh’s”.

After a successful string of experimental albums, Major/Minor allows Thrice to relax and get back to where they started and just bang out some great rock songs with a positive message, and all without losing who they have become during the process.

Download "Promises" here: http://s3.amazonaws.com/site-images.vagrant.com/audio_items/295/02_Promises.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.thrice.net/ and http://www.vagrant.com/

Free Friday: Deerhoof -"99% Upset Feeling"

2011-09-16T09:00:00.003-04:00

Deerhoof are set to tour this fall and in anticipation, they have released the live album 99% Upset Feeling as a free download on their website. The 11-track album features awesome improv-heavy live takes of "The Merry Barracks" and "Behold A Marvel In The Darkness" from their most recent album Deerhoof vs. Evil and "Offend Maggie", "Fresh Born" and The Tears And Music Of Love" from the album Offend Maggie. Other highlights include longtime favorites "Flower" and "The Perfect Me". Download the album and then go check them out on tour!

Download 99% Upset Feeling here: http://deerhoofvsevil.com/

Download the album version of "The Merry Barracks" from Deerhoof vs. Evil here: http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/dl.php?id=0867028807000798

For tour dates and more info click here: http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/

Primus - "Green Naugahyde"

2011-09-15T09:00:00.001-04:00

Primus is back with Green Naugahyde, their first studio album in over eleven years and seventh overall. The self-produced new album released this week on ATO Records features founder and frontman Les Claypool and longtime guitarist Larry LaLonde along with drummer Jay Lane who was also in Sausage, a 1994 reunion of the original 1988 Primus lineup.

The instrumental intro “Prelude To A Crawl” opens the album followed by “Hennepin Crawler” and “Last Salmon Man”, which marks a welcome return to Sailing The Seas Of Cheese form with circle pit-inducing, thrash-punk moments, including the fist-in-the-air chanted refrain of “Go, go, go!”, egging on the pit in the background on “Hennepin Crawler”. Ever the storyteller, Les’s lyrics are as humorous as always, even when he is riffing on societal issues, like mass consumerism and outsourcing on “External Consumption Engine” and celebrity worship on “Eyes Of The Squirrel”, which features an equally squirrely bass line. The first single, “Tragedy’s a’ Comin’” stands out immediately with a tight groove and a catchy chorus that perfectly invokes the Frizzle Fry era yet without feeling tired or rehashed. Les breaks out the cello for the atmospheric and fuzzy “Jilly’s On Smack”. The carnival-like “Lee Van Cleef” stands out with a rubbery bass line and bobbing rhythm. Another standout, “HOINFODAMAN” surprises with a stomping, stoner-rock riff and some of Les’s funniest voices. “Extinction Burst” opens with a clattering drum fill that sounds like an antique cash register on the fritz alongside wah-wah and fuzz-drenched bass. The 13-track album closes with “Salmon Men”, a short reprise of “The Last Salmon Man”.

With Green Naugahyde, everything you have ever loved from Primus remains, though longtime drummer “Herb” is missing, Jay is more than capable and in time the album will be remembered as one of their best.

For more info click here: http://www.primusville.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-09-14T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Girls - "Vomit" (The beautiful, vintage organ-drenched first single from Father, Son, Holy Ghost, the San Francisco-based band's excellent second album out now on True Panther Records. With a much larger sound and slightly more polished yet warm production, the band adds a 3-piece gospel choir to a majority of the joyous, retro-leaning songs of love, hope and all that goes along with it.) www.myspace.com/girlssanfran

Download: http://www.truepanther.com/mp3/Girls_Vomit.mp3

2. Blitzen Trapper - "Love The Way You Walk Away" (First single from American Goldwing, the Portland band's seventh overall and third for Sub Pop Records invokes the easy riding feeling of hopping on a motorcycle and just riding, carefree with no final destination in mind, to a soundtrack of classic rock and country music colliding.) http://www.blitzentrapper.net/home

Download: http://assets3.subpop.com/assets/audio/10080.mp3

3. Wild Flag - "Romance" (Wild Flag is the new project from Carrie Brownstein and Janet Weiss from Sleater-Kinney, Mary Timony of Helium and Rebecca Cole of The Minders. Their self-titled debut album out now on Merge Records is everything you would wish for and more with disonant, angular guitars and punky harmonies, sounding like a return to the 90's Portland punk scene but with a grace that comes from maturity.) http://www.mergerecords.com/artists/wild_flag

Download: http://www.mergerecords.com/audio/wildflag/wild_flag/romance.mp3

Bonus: Big Harp - "Goodbye Crazy City" (Nebraska-based husband-and-wife duo Chris Senseney of Art In Manila and Stefanie Drootin-Senseney of The Good Life met while on tour and started the country-lovin' folk band together and their debut White Hat retains a DIY approach and was released this week on Saddle Creek Records.) http://bigharp.com/

Download:

Mates Of State - "Mountaintops"

2011-09-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

Indie-pop veterans Mates Of State return with Mountaintops, their first album of new material in four years and seventh overall, out today on Barsuk Records. The duo of Jason and Kori self-produced the new album for the first time, owning and honing every aspect of their music to showcase their evolution into an unstoppable, undeniable pop machine over the last decade. Again touches of guitar, trumpets and electronic beats find their way into the mix but the spotlight remains on their effortless vocal harmonies and organ and drums set-up.

The album opens with the joyful and sugary “Palomino” which brings the energy right from the start. The album’s excellent first single “Maracas” features some seriously warped synths set to a rhythm driven by the song’s namesake and a sing-along chorus. The bouncing and delightful “Sway” features chiming bells and a cameo by the couple’s daughter, Magnolia, near the end of the song as she gleefully squeals, mimicking the strange synths employed on the stand out track. The bittersweet “Unless I’m Led” is a mid-tempo ballad with soaring vocal melodies and an infectious chorus. Another fun, stand out track, “Total Serendipity” is a handclap and horn-filled Motown-inspired rave up with lyrics that look back on the beginning of their relationship. “Basement Money” best spotlights Jason and Kori’s harmonious harmonies over spacey synths and another buoyant, energetic rhythm. An electric guitar is introduced to the steady, hip-shaking beat and shimmering synths on “At Least I Have You”, giving the song a dizzying quality even before the blissful refrain of repeated “la, la, la, la’s” takes over. And “Desire” follows with more guitar as a cyclical acoustic guitar and clicking percussion combine with swelling synths and horns on the sweet ballad. “Changes” features a rafters-reaching chorus and a touch of Bowie-esque glam on the 70’s-inspired track. And the album closes with the piano-led and classic Mates of State sounding “Mistakes”.

After slightly “rearranging” their sound on 2008’s Re-Arrange Us, which was a more piano-driven and solemn affair by Mates of State standards, they bring the exuberant energy back in spades on Mountaintops.

Download "Maracas" here: http://barsukmusic.blaireau.net/MatesOfState_Maracas.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.matesofstate.com/ and http://www.barsuk.com/

Dream Concert: Fruit Bats

2011-09-09T09:00:00.002-04:00

With the Dream Concert feature, I usually make a "dream" set list and choose the venue for a hypothetical show with one of my favorite bands that I have yet to witness live. But this one is a little bit different because I have actually seen the Fruit Bats before. I saw them open for Modest Mouse on both nights of a two nights stay at the Southgate House in Newport, KY in September of 2001. So it has been ten years and four albums since I have seen Eric Johnson and his poppy indie folk outfit. It's almost like I've never seen them! Well, tonight I get that chance and at the venue I would choose, The Southgate House, as the Fruit Bats are on tour to support their new album Tripper, with neo-folkie and fellow Sub Pop label mate Vetiver opening. Here is a list of songs I hope they play.

Set List (by album)

Echolocation:

Dragon Ships

Buffalo And Deer

Need It Just A Little

Mouthfuls:

A Bit Of Wind

The Little Acorn

When U Love Somebody

Spelled In Bones:

Lives Of Crime

Born In The 70's

Earthquake of '73

Legs Of Bees

Canyon Girl

The Ruminant Band:

Tegucigalpa

The Hobo Girl

The Ruminant Band

Tripper:

So Long

You're Too Weird

Tony The Tripper

Heart Like An Orange

Tangie And Ray

Picture Of A Bird

Shivering Fawn

Hopefully I will get to check off quite a few of these songs from the list. Fingers crossed!

Download "A Bit Of Wind" from the album Mouthfuls here: http://assets3.subpop.com/assets/audio/2434.mp3

For more info click here: http://fruitbatsmusic.com/ and http://www.subpop.com/

The Undeserving - "Almost Alive"

2011-09-08T09:00:00.003-04:00

The Undeserving, a Christian pop-rock band hailing from NW Ohio have triumphantly self-released their debut album Almost Alive, this week after experiencing legal woes with their former label Warner Bros. Records that delayed its release. The band’s name has become quite appropriate since their formation in 2005, as they were signed and subsequently dropped from Warner Bros. Records even after their successful first single, “Something To Hope For” was heard on several TV shows such as American Idol, The Biggest Loser and Blue Bloods among others. Almost Alive, which was mixed by Michael Brauer, who has worked with such like-minded acts as Coldplay and The Fray, was shelved until the label and the band finally were able to come to an agreement over the rights to the music. Throughout the ordeal, the 4-piece band, led by vocalist/pianist Clay Kirchenbauer has remained just as positive as the soaring piano-led pop-rock of their debut.

The ringing guitars, shuffling beat and anthemic chorus of “For All Time” opens the 11-track album with a proud statement and continues with the positive vibes and sweet melodies that exude on the uplifting chorus of the radio-ready “Cheer Up (We’re Almost Alive)”. The ballad “Fall” features sharp falsetto vocals and enough emotional weight to balance the rafters-reaching chorus. “Let’s Not Forget” stands out with twinkling keys and swelling orchestration. Elsewhere, while “Nothing Else” falls just short, sounding a little too similar to Coldplay with its vocal cadence, the skyward hook is undeniably infectious. Another standout, “Look Inside” relies less on the piano with driving guitars as a mid-album change of pace. The soulful lyrics of the passionate ballad “There For You” highlights the band’s universal appeal, perfectly designed to appeal to both Contemporary Christian audiences and to the mainstream pop audience. The piano-led single, “Something To Hope For”, originally released in 2010 is included here, tucked away near the end of the album with a message of hope for those who may be struggling and an uplifting chorus that just begs to be included in a TV drama soundtrack. And the album closes with the introspective and emotional “Today You Said I Love You”.

The Undeserving’s anticipated debut, Almost Alive is filled with 11 melodic and emotional pop-rock anthems that are well deserving of radio play, inclusion on TV soundtracks and a spot in your collection.

Download a free 3-song album sampler from Noisetrade here: http://www.noisetrade.com/theundeserving

For more info click here: http://www.theundeserving.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-09-07T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. MonstrO - "Anchors Up!" (Atlanta psych-rock band features former members of metal bands Bloodsimple and Torche, released their self-titled debut album this week on Vagrant Records. The album mixes hard-charging prog-rock, heavy stomping stoner metal and trippy, 60's psychedelic passages with soaring choruses for a stunning debut. Catch them on tour with Kyuss Lives! and The Sword.) http://monstroband.com/

Download: http://s3.amazonaws.com/site-images.vagrant.com/audio_items/289/02_Anchors_Up_.mp3

2. Peter Wolf Crier - "Settling It Off" (The duo expands on the rhythmic and passionate folk of their excellent debut with the addition of samples, keyboards and more experimental instrumentation on their second album Garden Of Arms, out now on Secretly Canadian with great success.) http://peterwolfcrier.com/

Download: http://www.scjag.com/mp3/jag/settlingitoff.mp3

3. Gold Beach - "Gold Beach" (Austin duo create a lush, hushed brand of folk on their self-released debut album Habibti, out now. The soundscape created on the track "Gold Beach" is jaunty yet haunting with ringing guitars, rolling piano and a shuffling beat as an excellent intro to this must-hear band.) http://www.goldbeachband.com/

Download: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38730955/mp3/goldbeach_goldbeach.mp3

Canon Logic - "Rapid Empire" EP

2011-09-01T09:00:00.005-04:00

Brooklyn five-piece Canon Logic quickly return with the Rapid Empire EP, their follow up to last year’s debut album FM Arcade. The new EP released this week on NYC label Engine Room Recordings, consists of five instantly catchy and energetic indie-pop songs that expand on the sound they established on their debut with an emphasis on guitars rather than the piano this time around.

“Sirens” opens the album with a rubbery bass line and a pounding, danceable beat that flashes back to early 80’s post-punk and New Wave, and soaring vocal melodies on the arena-sized chorus. The super poppy title track “Rapid Empire (Am I M.I.A.)” stands out with a percussion-led rhythm and the catchiest chorus you will hear all year, with the repeated refrain of “Am I M.I.A.”. “Howl In The Night” features a primal energy with tumbling, tom-heavy drums and psychedelic swirls of background vocals that will have you howling along. The piano-led “No Domino” opens with hand drums and a fat vintage organ, leaving enough space to highlight frontman Tim Kiely’s crystal clear vocals that are reminiscent of Nate from Cold War Kids. The EP closes with the flickering guitar licks, strutting bass, striking piano chords and anthemic chorus of “Dungeon Fallout”.

Rapid Empire shows a band at the top of their game with forward-charging anthems that do not rely on bombastic pastiche and have an infectious spirit.

Download "Howl in the Night" and get more info here: http://www.canonlogic.com/
and
http://www.engineroomrecordings.com/category/news/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-08-31T09:00:00.000-04:00

1. Cymbals Eat Guitars - "Definite Darkness" (Originally scheduled to be released in September, Barsuk Records moved up the release of their highly anticipated sophomore album Lenses Alien to this week. The fuzzed out guitars and catchy melodies remain on the 90's guitar rock revivalist's' new album. Catch them on tour with the like-minded Hooray For Earth.) http://cymbalseatguitars.com/

Download: http://www.tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/cymbalseatguitars_definitedarkness.mp3

2. YAWN - "Acid" (Chicago psych-pop band throws everything into the kitchen sink on their debut album, Open Season, out now on FeelTrip/Englophile. Tribal, world music rhythms collide with electronics and gaze-y guitars for a sound that will, wait for it...not make you yawn!)

http://www.yawntheband.com/

Download: http://www.tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/yawn_acid.mp3

3. Jacuzzi Boys - "Cool Vapors" (The Miami-based trio released Glazin', their second album this week on Hardly Art Records. The new album may be a bit more polished, but that just allows their neon, punk-laced power-pop to shine like the hot South Florida sun even though it was recorded in Michigan.) http://jacuzziboys.com/

Download: http://hardlyart.com/mp3/JB_CoolVapors.mp3

Male Bonding - "Endless Now"

2011-08-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

London trio Male Bonding returns with another batch of noisy, 90’s-loving pop-punk on their sophomore album Endless Now, out now on Sub Pop Records. The super-melodic and energetic new album was produced by John Agnello who has manned the boards for many of Male Bonding’s influences like, Sonic Youth and Dinosaur Jr. The band fine-tuned their sound to include even more guitars and loads of hazy vocal harmonies with Frankie Rose (Crystal Stilts, Vivian Girls) adding her touch throughout.

The first single, “Tame The Sun” opens the album with a blast of pummeling drums, hard-charging guitars and a surf rock-influenced chorus. “Carrying” features both spiky and jangly guitars and waves of background vocals. Standout track “Seems To Notice” chugs along with a persistent drumbeat and features the album’s sweetest and catchiest chorus, showcasing an earnestness beyond the wall of squalling guitars. “Bones”, the second track released, lasts nearly six and a half minutes long and never loses steam with a rush of furious guitar chords and layers of infectious vocals. “What’s That Scene” amps up that infectiousness with touches of 60’s psych-pop and handclaps. Later, “Can’t Dream” trades in the psychedelia for sunny Beach Boys-like harmonies that complement the 90’s grunge rock barrage well. “The Saddle” is a short and stripped down with acoustic guitar, highlighting the songwriting underneath. And the album closes with the pogo-inducing “Dig You Out”, with its noisy guitar interludes as well as the short, aptly-titled “Reprise” with a reversed-guitar riff, which acts as a metaphor for the back to future sound they create.

90’s revivalists Male Bonding prove that they are here to stay with an improved focus and hooks for miles on their excellent new album Endless Now.

Download "Bones" here: http://assets4.subpop.com/assets/audio/9792.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.malebondingblog.blogspot.com/ and http://www.subpop.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-08-24T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Pomegranates - "Softness" (Acoustic-based opening track from their new double EP In Your Face Thieves/Chesnut Attic out now on vinyl and digitally from Lujo Records. Both 5-song EPs were recorded with their friend Caleb Groh and features his vocals on two of the songs. Stripped down, mostly acoustic and without any restrictions, the Poms have given us an intimate gem as we wait for their next move.) www.myspace.com/pomegranatesart

Download: http://www.lujorecords.com/media/01%20Softness.mp3

2. Gold Leaves - "Cruel/Kind" (New project of Grant Olsen from Seattle folk duo Arthur & Yu adds touches of R&B and doo-wop, orchestral instrumentation, and lush backing vocals from Thao Ngyuen and members of the Moondoggies to his brand of folk on his debut album, The Ornament, out now on Hardly Art Records.) www.hardlyart.com/goldleaves.html

Download:http://hardlyart.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=103b131ea32d2b95d49c59f1f&id=b370e0d659&e=ba4df986af

3. Alyssa Graham - "Watching The Sky" (A duet with Alyssa and Jesse Harris taken from the folk-pop singer-songwriter's new EP Lock, Stock and Soul out now on Sunnyside Records, has a breezy, jazzy vibe like Jesse's mid-90's project Once Blue. The excellent, iTunes-exclusive EP also features appearances by David Garza and Meshell Ndegeocello as well as a cover of the Grateful Dead's "High Time".) http://www.alyssagraham.com/

Download: http://loudfeed.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/22128/03_Watching_The_Sky.mp3

Active Child - "You Are All I See"

2011-08-23T09:00:00.002-04:00

Active Child, the electro-pop project of Pat Grossi, is set to release the highly-anticipated debut album You Are All I See today on Vagrant Records. Like light refracting through stained glass windows, Pat creates music that is vivid, inspiring, and intimate on his debut album.

The album opens with plucks of angelic harp and Grossi’s choirboy vocals floating above ambient synths on the dreamy and transcending title track, “You Are All I See”. “Hanging On” is ethereal and atmospheric with an R&B beat, cascading keyboards and an enveloping choir of beautiful voices that come from every angle. The first single, “Playing House”, a stunning vocal collaboration with Tom Krell of like-minded bedroom-R&B project How To Dress Well, features a danceable beat that could easily have been in rotation on late 80’s or early 90’s FM radio. The moody and ambient “See Thru Eyes” sounds like the perfect soundtrack to an underwater diving scene. “High Priestess” battles gravity and wins with light-weight synths and feathery falsetto crooning that never once touches down to Earth. The mostly instrumental “Ivy” climbs to a cinematic crescendo and with little vocal assistance. “Way Too Fast” is haunting yet hymnal with rafters-reaching vocals and 80’s-inspired synths on the stand out track. And “Johnny Belinda” closes out the album like it opened, in a dream-state, with shimmering, trance-inducing washes of keyboards and chiming bells. Also included on the digital version is the exclusive b-side "Call Me Tonight" and a psychedelic remix of "Hanging On" by White Sea.

On You Are All I See, Active Child has expounded greatly on the blissful bedroom pop found on last year’s excellent Curtis Lane EP with a debut that seems destined to be a benchmark for the genre for years to come.

Download "Playing House" here: http://s3.amazonaws.com/site-images.vagrant.com/audio_items/293/03_Playing_House.mp3

For more info click here: http://activechildmusic.com/ and http://www.vagrant.com/

Free Friday: Broadcaster - "Joyride" EP

2011-08-19T09:00:00.004-04:00

Long Island, NY trio Broadcaster self-released their new EP Joyride on their Bandcamp page last month. They create bouncy, nostalgia-laced pop-punk with slightly snarling sing-along melodies and a raw, honest approach similar to early Get Up Kids and the Smoking Popes. Not bad since they formed to be just a fun, covers band to play out at local shows.

The 4-song Joyride EP can be downloaded here: http://broadcasterny.bandcamp.com/album/joyride

Download the single "Vacation Days" here: http://beartrappr.com/press/Broadcaster/04%20Vacation%20Days.mp3

Help spread the word, if you like what you hear!

For more info click here: http://www.facebook.com/BroadcasterNY

Braid - "Closer To Closed" EP

2011-08-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

Now I must admit, I got into Braid after discovering Hey Mercedes and I know, for most people it is the other way around. Well, either way Braid is back with a newly recorded EP Closer To Closed that was released this week on Polyvinyl Records. It features 3 new songs as well as a cover of Jeff Hanson's "You Are the Reason" and was produced by Frame And Canvas producer J. Robbins.

All original members return and guitarist/vocalist Chris Broach takes lead on the bouncy opening track and first single, "The Right Time". Bob Nanna (guitar, vocals) takes his turn on "Do Over", with its fast-paced math rock rhythm and bittersweet lyrics. Bassist Todd Bell brings the weight to the light-hearted piano-led cover of "You Are The Reason". And drummer-extraordinaire Damon Atkinson's thundering drums and fills provide more than just a backbeat to standout closing track "Universe Or Worse".

For their first new material in over a decade, Closer To Closed is well worth the wait as they have brought the energy and nostalgia back but with added dimensions that show their growth and new found influences. Braid currently has just a few shows lined up with no major tour or recording plans but hopefully that will change, because I can't wait to hear more!

Download "The Right Time" here: http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/drop/Braid-The_Right_Time.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.braidcentral.com/ and http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-08-17T09:00:00.008-04:00

1. Mister Heavenly - "Bronx Sniper" (New project from Nick Thorburn of Islands and The Unicorns, Ryan Kattner from Man Man and Joe Plummer of Modest Mouse. For their debut album, Out Of Love, out now on Sub Pop, they have created their own self-described genre of "doom-wop", a grungy, art-punk influenced form of the sock-hop and romance invoking, 50's rock of the past with a modern edge.) http://www.misterheavenly.com/

Download: http://assets1.subpop.com/assets/audio/9956.mp3

2. The War On Drugs - "Come To The City" (Buzzing and insistent new single from Slave Ambient, the sophomore album from the Philadelphia band led by Adam Granduciel features an even broader pallette of sounds to complement his already kaleidoscopic sound of atmospheric and anthemic Dylan and Springsteen-loving indie rock.) http://www.thewarondrugs.net/

Download: http://www.scjag.com/mp3/sc/cometothecity.mp3

3. The Great Book Of John - "Robin Hood" (The new project led by Taylor Shaw formerly of Wild Sweet Orange, who creates lyrically rich arena-sized anthems with ethereal arrangements and a crooning voice reminiscent of Jeff Buckley. The self-titled sophomore album was produced by Jeffery Cain (Remy Zero) and released on his Communicating Vessels label this week.) http://www.thegreatbookofjohn.com/

Download: http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/greatbookofjohn_robinhood.mp3

Bonus: Tim Kasher - "The Jessica" (To coincide with his current solo tour, the Cursive frontman has released a new tour EP Bigamy: More Songs From The Monogamy Sessions today on Saddle Creek. It features seven new songs similar in scope and written during the same sessions as his debut solo album The Game Of Monogamy, released to great praise last Fall. The EP also features a very "Kasher-like" cover of Azure Ray's "Trees Keep Growing".) http://www.timkasher.com/

Download "The Jessica" here:

Maria Taylor - "Overlook"

2011-08-16T09:00:00.001-04:00

Maria Taylor is set to release her fourth solo album, Overlook today on Saddle Creek Records. The new album was recorded after a move back home to Birmingham, Alabama with her dear friends and family lending a hand to her self produced album which perfectly showcases her beautiful voice and diverse and interesting arrangements.

Unlike any Maria Taylor song before, “Masterplan” opens with loud, cascading drums and driving guitars and synths, signaling the change in sound the new album holds. Catchy first single “Matador” stands out with marimba, a shuffling beat and an unhinged guitar solo by Browan Lollar from Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit, who plays guitar throughout the album. “Happenstance” features Maria’s breathy, inviting vocals wrapped around ethereal lap steel that mimics the swirling wind and cold she invokes on the song’s refrain, “On this cold night in Alabama”. Maria lets her Southern roots shine on the next two tracks. “Like It Does” fills the room with vintage organ swells played by her brother Macey Taylor and a laid-back country vibe, while “Bad Idea?” is an old-timey saloon strut with a mandolin solo from Maria’s father, Macey Taylor Sr. and a playful rumination on growing old. “Idle Mind” is a dream-like ballad with a flute matching Maria’s lilting vocals. A song of love gone wrong, the bouncy “In A Bad Way” stands out with a beautiful string synth arrangement and a bluesy guitar solo by Browan. The album closes with the juxtaposition of bright guitars and the aching melodies of the bittersweet “This Could Take A Lifetime” and Along For The Ride” which carries over the former track’s atmospheric lap steel with a chorus of angelic voices for a hypnotic lullaby to end the album.

With Overlook, Maria Taylor proves that “home is where the heart is” as she gathered her Birmingham-area musician friends and family together for a loose session that truly brought out the best in her for her most cohesive and captivating album yet.

For more info click here: http://www.mariataylormusic.com/ and http://www.saddlecreekrecords.com/

Download "Matador" here:

Interview: A Lull

2011-08-12T09:00:00.002-04:00

A Lull the percussion-driven, experimental Chicago-based band have a new EP, Confetti Reprise due out on August 16th with 4 tracks taken from the same sessions as their excellent debut album Confetti that was released this past April on Mush Records.

While on a short tour with the Cold War Kids leading up to Lollapalooza last week, multi-instrumentalist Mike Brown of the band took some time out to answer some questions about the tour, the album and their Jazz-heavy influences.

***

Atlas and the Anchor: So you are currently on tour with the Cold War Kids. I think you guys are the perfect match to tour together with your rhythm-driven sounds. How has the tour been so far?

Mike Brown: We toured with them back in March of this year for a while and it was great. They are some of the most stellar dudes you’ll ever meet, including their crew. This weekend we just did a few dates around Lolla with them, which went very well. It was great to catch up and hang out. We love going out with them.

AA: What other bands or artists would you like to collaborate or tour with?

(MB): We love being on the road as much as we can be. I’d love to go out with St. Vincent. I really like her new stuff, and feel we’d fit very well. There are so many other bands we are into and would love to tour with too, but I wouldn’t even know where to begin.

AA: What have you been listening to in the tour van?

(MB): I listen to a lot of Fela Kuti, Talking Heads, Brad Mehldau, Paul Simon, Bola Sete, Miles Davis, Albert King, etc…

AA: Your debut album Confetti came out this past April and it is amazing! The way the vocals are used like another instrument on "Weapons For War" makes it my favorite song. What is your favorite song on the album and why?

(MB): Thanks! My favorite song on the record is Sidemen. I really like the female vocals at the end of the song done by our friend Dana Falconberry from Austin TX. As far as playing live goes, my favorite song is "Aytche". We do a much heavier version live with a lot more guitar.

AA: Your unique sound is kind of hard to pin down and you have been compared to some great bands but who and/or what do you say are your musical influences?

(MB): I am completely honored to be compared to some of the amazing artists we get compared to. I answer this question a lot, and as far as influences goes, I feel we are just inspired by other artists that can find themselves in their music. We strive to find ourselves and be musicians like that.

AA: You have a new EP, Confetti Reprise coming out on August 16th comprised of 4 songs that just didn't make it onto Confetti. You also had 70 songs written and recorded during the process; can we expect another full-length album soon?

(MB): We are in the process of recording all new material for a future release. As far as the rest of the Confetti sessions go, they will probably never be released or reworked. I feel we’ve grown a lot and the new stuff is a lot stronger.

AA: Do any of you have a solo or side project that we should know about?

(MB): None of us have any musical side projects, but we are always working on other sort of projects or art. A Lull takes up a lot of our time, and we put as much as we can into it.

AA: What one older and one current song do you wish you would have written yourself?

(MB): Man… I’ll just pick the first to come to mind, probably Bob Segar ‘Night Moves’ or Marshall Tucker Band ‘Can’t You See’.

AA: Not that you would want to, but if you had to, whom would you choose to replace yourself in the band?

(MB): John McLaughlin. What he did on Bitches Brew and in Mahavishnu Orchestra blows my mind.

***

Download "Pot Luck" from the Confetti Reprise EP here: http://www.tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/alull_potluck.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.alull.com/ and http://www.mushrecords.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-08-10T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Pepper Rabbit - "Murder Room" (By fusing both electronic and organic aspects, the duo of Luc Laurent and Xander Singh create a bouncy, infectious and psychedelic brand of indie-pop on their debut album, Red Velvet Snowball, out now on Kanine Records.) http://www.myspace.com/pepperrabbit

Download: http://www.tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/pepperrabbit_murderroom.mp3

2. The Horrors - "Moving Further Away" (The UK band's third album Skying delivers on the promise of their mind-blowing, genre-shifting 2009 album Primary Colors. The new album is a technicolor blur of danceable beats, haunting psychedelics, and vintage synths while retaining a slight 60's garage-rock edge.) http://www.thehorrors.co.uk/

Download: http://promo.xlrecordings.com/thehorrors/movingfurtheraway.mp3

3. Being There - "Tomorrow" (Summery first single from the mysterious London-based lo-fi power-pop band brings the 90's back. Currently at work on their debut with producer Richard Formby, who has also produced for Wild Beasts. Hear more at their Bandcamp page.) http://beingthere.bandcamp.com/

Download: https://www.yousendit.com/download/YTY5SlIrcTJtMEt4dnc9PQ

Free Friday: Tin Armor - "Life Of Abundance"

2011-08-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

Columbus, Ohio folk-pop band Tin Armor is set to self-release their sophomore album Life Of Abundance on August 16th and in anticipation for its release, they are offering the album as a free download on their Bandcamp page. The quartet fashions a sound that takes the soulful roots rock and harmonious vocal interplay of The Band and mixes it with the piano-led power pop sensibility of Ben Folds, while adding in touches of Gospel for a rich and crafty album that just begs to be heard.

The album opens with the solemn, hymn-like title track, “Life Of Abundance”, that leads into “Plain Limbs”, which is led by fat, vintage organs and jangly guitar strums and a rafters-reaching chorus. The first single “I Am Resolved” sounds like Ben Folds leading a Sunday service with a sweet, gospel-inflected melody. And the revved-up “Wayward Kites” stands out with a strutting bass line and catchy vocal melodies.

Download the excellent Life Of Abundance here: http://tinarmor.bandcamp.com/
and then order your physical copy from the band here: http://www.tinarmor.com/

Download the single "I Am Resolved" here: http://beartrappr.com/press/Tin%20Armor/Tin%20Armor%20-%20Life%20of%20Abundance%20-%2007%20I%20Am%20Resolved.mp3

Love Of Everything - "Sooner I Wish" 7"

2011-08-04T09:00:00.001-04:00

Love Of Everything is the long-running solo project of Bobby Burg (Joan of Arc, Make Believe, Vacations) and his new 7”, Sooner I Wish, was released this week through Polyvinyl Records . The new 7” features four songs in less than nine minutes and features Bobby’s most personal lyrics, as the songs were written after his recent divorce from ex-LOE drummer Elisse. New drummer Matt Holland (Vacations, Air Waves) takes over to provide the backbone to Burg’s stripped down lo-fi pop songs which were recorded live with a loop pedal to capture the energy of his unique live shows.

“Three Way Answers” opens the side-A with pounding drums, scaling guitar lines and one of Bobby’s catchiest choruses ever. The title track, “Sooner I Wish” is charged up with a surf rock rhythm and subtle, bittersweet melodies. The B-side consists of the instrumental “Here Come The Warm Regrets”, which speaks for itself like a metaphor for his divorce as the track slowly unravels at the end with each instrument dropping out one by one. And the record closes with the short and sweet “Want”, with just a simple refrain that aptly leaves you wanting more.

The Sooner I Wish 7” is available digitally and on white vinyl limited to 300 and black vinyl limited to 700. So get yours today!

Download "Three Way Answers" here: http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/drop/LOE-Three_Way_Answers.mp3

For more info click here: www.facebook.com/loveofeverything and http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-08-03T09:00:00.002-04:00

1. Collections Of Colonies Of Bees - "Lawn" (Taken from their new album GIVING, their first new material since their highly praised collaboration with Justin Vernon of Bon Iver in Volcano Choir. The instrumental post-rock band explodes with proggy rhythms and soaring melodies, showcasing their well-honed skills on the 28 minute, 4-song album out now on Hometapes.) http://collectionsofcoloniesofbees.net/

Download: http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/collectionsofcoloniesofbees_lawn.mp3

2. Eulogies - "Better Than Nothing (Wurlitzer Mix)" (Peter Walker, the songwriter and vocalist for Eulogies decided to tear down the tracks from his latest album Tear The Fences Down, replacing the guitars with a Wurlitzer organ and giving the new mixes away as free downloads. The mix on "Better Than Nothing" turns the song into a rumbling, hip-shaking slice of power-pop that rivals the original. Look for more remixes to be released on the band's site.) http://www.eulogiesmusic.com/

Download: http://dangerbirdrecords.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=477d59a75ae1ccef30b080a74&id=e21afee32a&e=0b33576cf7

3. Mittenfields - "My Mind Is An Avalanche" (The D.C.-based 5-piece band has just self-released their debut EP The Fresh Sum. Their sound incorporates the rhythm-centric sound of their hometown with a fuzzed out 3-guitarist attack and a quirky pop sense for a worthy debut!) http://mittenfields.com/

Download: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/34619029/MyMindIsAnAvalanche.mp3

Fruit Bats - "Tripper"

2011-08-02T09:00:00.003-04:00

Eric D. Johnson and his now, decade-old band, Fruit Bats return with their fifth album Tripper, out today on Sub Pop. The new album is a slight departure from the sunny, guitar-based folk of his previous albums, instead featuring more synths and a focus on story-based lyrics, all while retaining Eric’s high tenor and penchant for 70’s pop.

“Tony The Tripper” opens the album with tinkling piano and pump organ played by Richard Swift on the tone-setting psychedelic, road-tripping song. “So Long” is dreamy and spectral, adding a touch of girl-group sheen to the longing lyrics on the standout track. First single, “Tangie And Ray” is twangy, shuffling and upbeat despite the darker lyrical themes. “Shivering Fawn” shimmers and shines with rippling washes of synths and Johnson’s knack for writing about nature. “You’re Too Weird” features his falsetto against a smooth, piano-led pop-number with a faded guitar solo and a sing-along chorus. “Heart Like An Orange” is led by a rollicking beat, vintage synths and angelic background vocals on the swelling chorus. The super-poppy “Dolly” stands out with rich synths and a tapping, danceable beat. “The Banishment Song” begins with an instrumental interlude of acoustic guitar and ambient nature sounds, then flows into a laid-back, jazzy tune with falsetto vocal melodies. “The Fen” is a short, moody instrumental with lilting organs. Next is “Wild Honey”, a cover song in tribute to friend and Chicago songwriter Diane Izzo who passed away of brain cancer the first day of the recording sessions for the album. And the introspective and charming “Picture Of A Bird” closes the album in an upbeat mood.

After working singularly on film soundtracks (Ceremony), and collaborating with a full band on 2009’s The Ruminant Band, as well as touring with the Shins and Vetiver over the last few years, Eric found the perfect balance with Tripper for the best Fruit Bats album yet.

Download "Tangie And Ray" here: http://assets3.subpop.com/assets/audio/9788.mp3

For more info click here: http://fruitbatsmusic.com/ and http://www.subpop.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-07-27T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Aficionado - "Falsified Inspiration" (Taken from their self-titled debut album out now on No Sleep Records, which deftly blends punk, indie rock and everything in-between with a flair for experimentation and male/female vocals for a sound that touches on their current tour partner Tim Kasher's band, Cursive.) http://www.aficionadoband.com/

Download: http://www.zshare.net/audio/93012236b3c0aebe/

2. The Features - "Content" (The shuffling, psychedelic and poppy first single from Wilderness, their third album and second for the Kings of Leon's label, Serpents and Snakes. The Nashville-based band incorporates prog and classic rock motives with Southern boogie into their brand of indie rock for an appealing sound all their own.) http://thefeatures.com/

Download: http://thefeatures.com/stream/the_features-content.mp3

3. The Pursesnatchers - "Wet Cement" (New single from A Pattern Language, the debut album by the husband and wife team of Doug Marvin, formerly of shoegaze-poppers Dirty on Purpose and Annie Hart of the dreamy, synth-pop band Au Revoir Simone. Their new sound marries the hazy, beauty of Hart's former band with the fuzzed out frenzy of Marvin's for a match made in Heaven! Out now on Uninhabitable Mansions.) http://www.myspace.com/avoidpursesnatchers

Download: http://www.tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/pursesnatchers_wetcement.mp3

Portugal. The Man - "In The Mountain In the Cloud"

2011-07-26T09:00:00.001-04:00

Last week Portugal. The Man released In The Mountain In The Cloud, their sixth album in as many years and Atlantic Records debut. The new album produced by John Hill (Santigold) and co-produced by frontman John Baldwin Gourley and longtime collaborator Casey Bates is their most concise and focused effort yet, adding touches of glam-rock to their highly melodic brand of psych pop.

“So American” opens the album with subtle political jabs against a dreamy backdrop of strings and twinkling steel drums. Both “Floating (Time Isn’t Working My Side)” and Got It All (This Can’t Be Living Now)” feature a spacey Bowie-inspired glam rock influence, with a light, soaring chorus of “Oh, Oh, Oh’s” on “Floating”, which works well with Gourley’s falsetto croon. The funky, bouncy and soulful “Senseless” stands out with stabbing keys and a choir of voices on the huge chorus. “Head Is A Flame (Cool With It)” features twangy guitar and swaths of paranoia-inducing psychedelics. “You Carried Us (Share With Me The Sun)” is loaded with spacious reverb, echo and reversed guitars on the poppy, sing-along track. “Everything You See (Kids Count Hallelujahs)” stands out with horns that mimic the melody of the chorus. The Gospel-inflected psych-pop of “All Your Light (Times Like These)” also stands out with a blown-out beat at the beginning and an unhinged guitar solo. “Once Was One” goes from a laid-back Country-esque tune with sweeping melodies to a swirling freak-out and back again. The album closes with the upbeat, piano-led 60’s pop of “Share With Me The Sun” and the epic “Sleep Forever” which builds slowly with rafters-reaching melodies and swelling vintage organs into a crazed ending with an anthemic chorus of voices.

With In The Mountain In The Cloud, their most cohesive album yet, Portugal. The Man seems to have finally found their sound while continuing to blur the lines of classification, setting them apart once again.

For more info click here: http://www.portugaltheman.com/ and http://atlanticrecords.com/

Free Friday: The Reveling - "Tributaries"

2011-07-22T09:00:00.003-04:00

EDIT: This is no longer offered as a free download but it is worth paying for!

Brooklyn four-piece The Reveling create some incredibly anthemic and highly melodic punk rock that harkens back to the early to mid-90's sound created by Face To Face, Jawbreaker, and Green Day, with a workingman's grit reminiscent of The Gaslight Anthem and The Loved Ones. Their infectious debut album Tributaries was released late last month on Black Numbers Records as a free download on their Bandcamp page. You can also get a physical copy from the Black Records site.

Stand out single, "Left At Forkright" and the opening track, "Revivial" both feature gang vocals, a soaring chorus and a non-stop palpable energy that sets the tone for the rest of the must hear album.

Download Tributaries here: http://blacknumbers.bandcamp.com/album/tributaries

For more info click here: http://www.thereveling.com/ and http://www.theblacknumbers.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-07-20T09:00:00.003-04:00

1. Roadside Graves - "Double Feature" (NJ-based country-rockers released their new album We Can Take Care Of Ourselves this week on Autumn Tone Records. It is a concept album of sorts about the classic novel The Outsiders that perfectly captures the youthful angst and emotion from the book.) http://www.roadsidegraves.com/

Download: http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/roadsidegraves_doublefeature.mp3

2. Tomorrows Tulips - "Eternally Teenage" (Cagey and psychedelic 60's surf-pop from the duo of Alex Knost formerly of The Japanese Motors and his girlfriend Christina Keyes. Their eternally catchy debut album Eternally Teenage was produced by Mike McHugh (Vivian Girls, The Black Lips) and is out now on Galaxia Records.) www.myspace.com/tomorrowstulips

Download: http://terrorbirddigital.s3.amazonaws.com/publicity/TTulips-02_Eternally_Teenage.mp3

3. Soft Metals - "Psychic Driving" (Portland couple Ian Hicks and Patricia Hall issue the first single from their self-titled debut album out now on Captured Tracks. Their sound features nuanced and ambient textures but with driving beats and vintage Kraftwerk-like synths and Hall's soaring vocals, building on last year's EP for an excellent debut.) http://www.myspace.com/softmetals

Download: http://soundcloud.com/forcefieldpr/psychic-driving-soft-metals

Scream The Prayer Tour 2011

2011-07-19T09:00:00.003-04:00

There will be no album review today because I will be attending the Scream The Prayer Tour today. I will worship my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ while listening to some spirit-filled hardcore from Sleeping Giant, Close Your Eyes, Texas In July and The Chariot and the double-pedal Jesus Metal of War Of Ages! Norma Jean, I The Breather, The Great Commission, As Hell Retreats and Sovereign Strength round out the excellent lineup for the all day fest!

The Top 5 Songs I hope to hear today are:

1. Sleeping Giant - "Eyes Wide Open"

2. Close Your Eyes - "Song For The Broken"

3. The Chariot - "Daggers"

4. Texas In July - "One Reality"

5. War Of Ages - "The Fallen"

Check out http://www.screamtheprayer.com/ for tour dates in your area.

Download Texas In July - "Magnolia" here: http://media.equalvision.com/evr192/TexasInJuly-Magnolia.mp3

Download Close Your Eyes - "17:20" here: http://www.victoryrecords.com/download.php?f=Q2xvc2VZb3VyRXllc1NvbmdGb3JUaGVCcm9rZW4=

For more info click here: http://www.facedownrecords.com/, http://www.aintnograverecords.com/, http://www.solidstaterecords.com/, http://www.equalvision.com/, http://www.victoryrecords.com/, http://www.goodfightmusic.com/, and http://www.sumerianrecords.com/

Free Friday: Generationals - "Medium Rarities" EP

2011-07-15T09:00:00.004-04:00

To coincide with their July tour, New Orleans duo Generationals have released the Medium Rarites EP as a free download through Park The Van Records.

The new digital EP features a new song, "Green Leaf Black Heart" and a jammy, dub-influenced alternate take on and older song, "You Got Me". As well as 2 remixes of Actor-Caster tracks; one of "Trust" by Bent Black and a sun-baked remix of the 60's pop-loving "When They Fight, They Fight" by 60's pop lover Richard Swift.

Download the Medium Rarities EP here for the price of an email address here: http://www.parkthevan.com/mediumrarities/

Download the Trust EP version of the song "Trust" here: http://www.parkthevan.com/mp3/Generationals_Trust.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.myspace.com/generationals and http://www.parkthevan.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-07-13T09:00:00.002-04:00

1. Grooms - "Prom" (By adding glitchy electronics to their fuzzy, squalling guitar workouts with a sharper focus on catchy melodies; the trio's sophomore album Prom out now on Kanine Records, is their best yet.) http://kaninerecords.com/grooms

Download: http://www.tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/grooms_prom.mp3

2. Eleanor Friedberger - "My Mistakes" (Jaunty keyboards, saxophone and other quirky sounds abound on the infectious Summer-y first single from the first solo album from Eleanor of The Fiery Furnaces. The super-poppy Last Summer is out now on Merge.) http://www.eleanorfriedberger.com/

Download: http://www.mergerecords.com/audio/eleanor/MyMistakes.mp3

3. Hospital Ships - "Honey Please" (Hospital Ships is the alias Jordan Geiger of Minus Story and he has also been a member of Shearwater and the Appleseed Cast. He expertly melds those experiences with his high-pitched voice to create a joyous and off-kilter indie-pop on his second album, Lonely Twin, out now on Graveface Records.) http://www.myspace.com/hospitalships

Download: http://www.pitchperfectpr.com/mp3/HoneyPlease.mp3

Washed Out - "Within And Without"

2011-07-12T09:00:00.003-04:00

Washed Out, the project of drowsy dance-pop connoisseur Ernest Greene makes his Sub Pop debut with the debut album Within And Without today. The new album produced and mixed by Ben H. Allen (Gnarls Barkley) features much more polished and tighter production than the previous two EPs and that was to be expected, but the almost-lost-in-the-mix vocals and blurry, amorphous synths and atmospherics still remain sounding like a blissfully hypnotic soundtrack to a daydream.

The album opens with “Eyes Be Closed”, retro-fit with 80’s-inspired synths and tumbling roto-toms along with a moaning, yearning vocal. The moody “Echoes” follows with washes of trance-inducing, warbling synths and clashing drums. The single, “Amor Fati” features effervescent synths and one of the album’s catchiest vocal melodies. And “Far Away” stands out with its haunting cello and scraping beat. Another standout, “Before”, features a trip-hop beat containing a sampled vocal and stuttering synths with Ernest’s liquid vocals. Caroline Polachek of Chairlift lent her vocal talents to the woozy “You And I” and also co-wrote the track. And “A Dedication” closes out the nine-track album with a fractured keyboard riff over top of glimmering synths and Green’s clearest vocals on the album.

Some fans may have a hard time adjusting to the cleaner production but Within And Without is filled with enough beauty and danceable grooves to satisfy fans new and old.

Download "Amor Fati" here: http://assets4.subpop.com/assets/audio/9618.mp3

For more info click here: www.facebook.com/washed.out and http://www.subpop.com/ and http://ernestgreene.blogspot.com/

Free Friday: The Earth Is A Man - "Self-Titled"

2011-07-08T09:00:00.000-04:00

The Earth Is A Man is an instrumental post-rock trio from Chicago. Their self-titled debut album was released earlier this year on their Bandcamp page. They create an extremely melodic and rhythmic mix with mathy guitar lines, prog-rock's expansive experimentalism and a classic video game soundtrack's winding interplay for an inventive album so engaging you won't even notice that there are no vocals!

Standout tracks include the clashing Southern Rock-style dual-guitars and off-kilter, jazzy rhythms of "You Are The Motor" and the beachy guitars and bobbing beat of first single, "Dymaxion".

Download the album here: http://theearthisaman.bandcamp.com/

Download the single "Dymaxion" here: http://www.bantermm.com/tracks/TheEarthIsAMan-Dymaxion.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.theearthisaman.tumblr.com/ and www.facebook.com/TheEarthisaMan

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-07-06T09:00:00.000-04:00

1. Disappears - "Superstition" (The 4-pc Chicago band features Brian Case of The Ponys and Steve Shelley of Sonic Youth, who joined after filling in for the band on tour last year. Their gripping, effects-heavy sound features touches of krautrock, punk, and even psychedlic gospel all in under 30-minutes. Check them out on tour all Summer, including a stop at Lollapalooza.) http://www.disappearsmusic.com/

Download: http://www.zshare.net/audio/9230114264e2fb3a/

2. Through The Sparks - "Chisel and Pick" (The Birmingham band's latest album, Almanac (MMX) Year of Beasts, is a collection of singles recorded and released digitally one per month last year. This track, originally released last October, features horns and upright bass and showcases the restriction-free recording process of a band at their creative peak!) http://throughthesparksmusic.com/intropage.cfm

Download: http://www.skybucket.com/mp3/10%20Chisel%20and%20Pick.mp3

3. The Trophy Fire - "Chasing The Ghost" (San Francisco band conjures up the big choruses of Jimmy Eat World and the moodiness of Tears For Fears on their new EP Armor out now on Greyday Records, in anticipation for their sophomore album due this September.) www.myspace.com/thetrophyfire

Download: http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/thetrophyfire_chasingtheghost.mp3

Free Friday: Kris N. - "Heart Scarf"

2011-07-01T09:00:00.004-04:00

Kris N. the ever prolific lo-fi singer-songwriter returns with the release of his new album Heart Scarf, out this week on Dayton-based indie label Poptek. Actually, he had been working on another album Supine Sailor, but a divorce knocked him off course and as an outlet, Heart Scarf was written with a cathartic sense of urgency.

The title track, "Heart Scarf" sets the tone with a rhythmic acoustic guitar, a scaling vocal melody and stinging lyrics: "I loved once long ago and maybe I will love once more". "I'm A Lion (I'm Lying)" features whimsical guitar melodies and a close, open-room feel with background noise intact. Standout track "Note To Self" is the perfect pep-talk for when you are so deep in a funk that even mundane everyday tasks seem defeating. The short and sweet "Marlon Brando" features ambient layers of swaying guitars. The ringing, cyclical guitars and muffled vocals of "BDSM" lends itself well to the album's tone. Another standout track "Keyboards And All" features a steady, bobbing guitar line and a sweet, hummable melody. The cathartic "12 Gun Salute" closes out the album with banging guitar chords that sound like clanging church bells.

Heart Scarf is full of Kris's understated but catchy melodies with lyrics rooted in heartache, hope and healing for a deeply personal album that reaches the heart of the listener as well.

Download Heart Scarf here: http://www.poptek.com/Kris%20N./Heart%20Scarf.zip or you can purchase it at iTunes, Amazon or directly from Poptek Records!

For more info click here: http://www.poptek.com/ and www.myspace.com/krisnmusic

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-06-29T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Shabazz Palaces - "Swerve...the reeping of all that is worthwhile (Noir notwithstanding)" (The first hip-hop release on Sub Pop comes from Ishmael "Butterfly" Butler formerly of Digable Planets but gone is the cool Jazz influence, as his debut Black Up is full of futuristic, minimalist indie hip-hop but his smooth and tricky wordplay remains.) http://shabazzpalaces.com/

Download: http://assets2.subpop.com/assets/audio/9444.mp3

2. Handsome Furs - "What About Us" (For their third album Sound Kapital, out now on Sub Pop, the duo of Dan Boeckner of Wolf Parade and his wife Alexei Perry dropped most of the guitars, to rely almost solely on synths and drum machines. The results are stunning, like an after-hours dance party with Dan's distinct vocals over driving, anthemic electronica.) http://handsomefursmusic.tumblr.com/

Download: http://assets4.subpop.com/assets/audio/9274.mp3

3. The Fruit Tree Foundation - "I Forgot The Fall" (Soaring collaboration between Scott Hutchison of Frightened Rabbit and Rod Jones of Idlewild from the album First Edition, a one-off collection from Scotland's greatest musical exports. Also included are unique collaborations from James Graham of Twilight Sad, Jill O’Sullivan from Sparrow and the Workshop, Emma Pollock of The Delgados, as well as Karine Polwart, Jenny Reeve, Alasdair Roberts and James Yorkston. The album was created to spread awareness for mental health and wellbeing in partnership with The Mental Health Foundation.) http://www.fruittreefoundation.com/

Download: http://www.blinkeractive.com/mf/FTF_IForgotTheFall.mp3

Graham Wright - "Shirts vs. Skins"

2011-06-28T09:00:00.002-04:00

Graham Wright the keyboardist from Tokyo Police Club is set to release his debut album Shirts vs. Skins, out today on File Under: Music Records. Following the 2008 release of The Lakes of Alberta EP, which focused on understated folk, Graham wrote over sixty songs with plans to release a trilogy of albums, the first being Shirts vs. Skins. The new album incorporates many different styles and is more straight-forward and upbeat.

Right off the bat, “Heaven’s Just For Movie Makers” is an energetic slice of early-Tokyo Police Club punk- pop with tumbling drums and exuberant vocals. First single, “Soviet Race” features circular guitars, analog synths and a racing vocal cadence on the verse which opens up on the wide-open chorus. “Your Heart Is My Heart” slows down the pace to focus on Graham’s sweet and quirky vocals on the earnest and heartfelt standout track. “Leftovers” has an early 90’s alternative vibe with jangly guitars and power-pop melodies that will find their way into your brain and make themselves at home. Another standout, “Keys To The Kingdom” is more in line with the music found on the EP with a simple acoustic guitar, harmonica and an earnest vocal with clever phrasing. The rollicking folk-rock of “Canadian Thanksgiving” features shouted “Oh’s” and is over before you want it to be. “Potassium Blast” stands out with a skronky horn, vintage organs and joyous background vocals, sounding like Vampire Weekend if they were from New Orleans instead. “Evening Train From Kingston” continues with the Afro-pop, featuring a rhythmic ukulele but with blasts of distorted guitar and Graham’s best Paul Simon impression. The album closes with the short, jaunty, piano-led “No Hard Feelings”, leaving you wanting more.

At first, I was slightly disappointed with the change of direction on Shirts vs. Skins, only because I loved the heart-on-sleeve folk of The Lakes of Alberta EP. But the melodies and mood of the album is undeniably catchy and now I can’t wait to hear more music like this from Graham!

Download: "Soviet Race" here: http://www.killbeatmusic.com/grahamwright/graham_wright-soviet_race.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.grahamwright.ca/ and http://www.fileundermusic.com/

Also: http://grahamwright.bandcamp.com/ (to download the excellent EP The Lakes of Alberta for free!)

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-06-22T09:00:00.003-04:00

1. Skysaw - "No One Can Tell" (New prog-rock project from Jimmy Chamberlin includes Mike Reina and Anthony Pirog from The Jackfields. Their impressive debut Great Civilizations is out now on Dangerbird Records and features Jimmy's trademark drumming set to soaring guitars and complex arrangements.) http://www.skysawmusic.com/

Download: http://soundcloud.com/skysawmusic/no-one-can-tell/download

2. City And Colour - "Fragile Bird" (Little Hell out now on Vagrant Records, is Alexisonfire frontman Dallas Green's 3rd solo album under this moniker and it is by far the most expansive and accessible to date. With help from producer Alex Newport, he adds touches of Country and Blues to his emo-tinged folk without dimming the spotlight from his impressive voice.) http://cityandcolour.ca/

Download: http://s3.amazonaws.com/site-images.vagrant.com/audio_items/287/05_fragile_bird.mp3

3. Burning Hearts - "Into The Wilderness" (Dreamy, 80's inspired indie-pop from the Finnish duo of Cats on Fire drummer and instrumentalist Henry Ojala and Le Futur Pompiste singer Jessika Rapo. Title track to their hazy new EP out now on Shelflife Records. For fans of Summer Camp and Stereolab.) http://www.myspace.com/burningheartsmusic

Download: http://www.shelflife.com/mp3-bin/BH_wilderness.mp3

Rubblebucket - "Omega La La"

2011-06-21T09:00:00.002-04:00

Energetic Brooklyn eight-piece Rubblebucket are set to release their new album Omega La La today on Sin Duda Records. Their nearly unclassifiable indie-pop features buoyant synths and punchy horns for an album that is psychedelic and infectiously catchy. Omega La La was produced by DFA-vet Eric Broucek (LCD Soundsystem, Hercules and Love Affair) who maximized the kinetic energy of their live show to its most danceable potential.

“Down In The Yards” opens the album with intertwining male/female vocal harmonies and an exuberant chorus with horns that match it in intensity. “L’Homme” features bubbling synths and lyrics sung in French with 60’s psychedelic background vocals. First single, “Silly Fathers” is led by a flickering disco guitar riff and a catchy call-and-response chorus. Also included are two re-recorded standout tracks from last year’s excellent Triangular Daisies EP; “Came Out Of A Lady” features the same jubilant horns and sugary sweet pop-meets-World Music hook but the infectiously catchy whistling at the heart of the original, has been sadly diminished. And the EP’s title track “Triangular Daisies” with its rapid-fire, echoing vocals and whistle solo is polished up with cleaner production and subtle bits of new instrumentation added. Other standout tracks are “Raining” with its stomping, clapping beat and jazzy chords, the hypnotic synths and 80’s vibe of “Breatherz” and the positive message and skronky saxophone of the “Worker”.

Rubblebucket’s quirky arrangements and bright melodies make for the perfect summer record on the first day of summer!

Download "Worker" here: http://www.girlieaction.com/music/rubblebucket/downloads/Worker.mp3

For more info click here http://www.rubblebucket.com/ (Where you can also download the new album for free if you help spread the word on Facebook!)

Free Friday: Josh Garrels - "Love & War & The Sea In Between"

2011-06-17T09:00:00.001-04:00

Portland singer/songwriter Josh Garrels has decided to give away his excellent new album, Love & War & The Sea In Between, his sixth, as a free download on his website and on his Bandcamp page.

His carefully crafted eclectic music combines chamber-pop, world music and folk with ambient, electronic textures along with a voice that flutters with vulnerability one moment and soars the next, while even touching on hip-hop. Lyrically, he writes from the Christian perspective about love, suffering and life but the themes and melodies transcend to reach all listeners.

Josh's new album is beautiful and affecting and deserves your attention. Check it out and help spread the word yourself!

Download Love & War & The Sea In Between here: http://joshgarrels.bandcamp.com/album/love-war-the-sea-in-between

For more info click here: http://www.joshgarrels.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-06-15T09:00:00.003-04:00

1. Life On Repeat - "Struggle + Sleep" (The anthemic title track to their powerful and melodic debut album out now on Equal Vision, delivers on the promise of their excellent As I Grew EP. Catch them on tour all Summer with There For Tomorrow and then with Greeley Estates.) www.facebook.com/lifeonrepeat

Download: http://media.equalvision.com/evr195/StruggleandSleep.mp3

2. Niki And The Dove - "The Fox" (New single from Stockholm duo of Malin Dahlström and Gustaf Karlöf out now on Sub Pop. Sinister, seductive and soaring, their deconstructed danceable pop is now on display for the U.S. with a full-length due later this year.) http://www.subpop.com/artists/niki_and_the_dove

Download: http://assets4.subpop.com/assets/audio/9372.mp3

3. Stuyvesant - "St. Cloud" (New Jersey band's new album, Fret Sounds, out now on Dromedary Records, is a sweat-drenched set of power-pop, punk rock and bar-room sing-alongs from members of 90's college rock champs Footstone and Friends, Romans, Countrymen.) http://www.stuyvesantrock.com/

Download: http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/stuyvesant_stcloud.mp3

Vetiver - "The Errant Charm"

2011-06-14T09:00:00.002-04:00

Vetiver songwriter Andy Cabic’s lushly layered folk-leaning pop is on display yet again with the Sub Pop release of The Errant Charm, their fifth album, out today.

A glowing haze of vintage keyboards and a steady stride propel the six and a half minute opener “It’s Beyond Me”. The glistening “Worse For Wear” features an insistent beat and ringing piano notes as the liquid melodies wash over you. “Can’t You Tell” stands out with a hop-scotching electronic beat and sun-drenched guitars and the breezy “Hard To Break”, with it’s velvety vocal harmonies both make for the perfect soundtrack for Summer. “Fog Emotion” could fit right in on a 70’s light rock station between Jackson Browne and James Taylor. Another standout, “Right Away” is a breezy rocker with a pretty string and vocal arrangement, featuring background vocals from friend and label mate Eric Johnson of the Fruit Bats. The upbeat “Wonder Why” features intertwining guitar and piano lines with a dirt road guitar solo and a catchy, sing-along chorus. “Ride, Ride, Ride” features background vocals from Jenny Lewis and Johnathan Rice along with a hip-shaking, country-rock swagger. The album closes with the excellent, slower-paced and affecting “Faint Praise” and the hypnotic ambiance of the aptly titled “Soft Glass”.

With The Errant Charm, the album’s charm is not as elusive as its title might suggest because Andy has created another smooth album with some of his most poppy and rocking songs yet.

Download "Wonder Why" here: http://assets2.subpop.com/assets/audio/9542.mp3

For more info click here: http://vetiverse.com/ and www.subpop.com

Dream Concert: Iron & Wine

2011-06-10T09:00:00.002-04:00

Over the years I have seen many of my favorite bands live but many times life has gotten in the way and I have missed them. There is a growing list of bands I want to see. With the Dream Concert feature, I list the set list and venue of my choice for one of my favorite bands that I have yet to experience live. My current selection is Iron & Wine who has been near the top of my list since I first heard Sam Beam's brand of hushed folk in 2002. So finally I get to see Iron & Wine live this Saturday at the Madison Theatre in Cincinnati. And here is my "dream" set list, if I was able to choose it for the show.

SET LIST: (In order by album)

Lion's Mane

The Rooster Moans

Southern Anthem

The Night Descending

Naked As We Came

Cinder And Smoke

Teeth In The Grass

Love And Some Verses

Free Until Cut Me Down

Woman King

Gray Stables

White Tooth Man

Wolves (Song of The Shepherd's Dog)

Resurrection Fern

Boy With A Coin

The Devil Never Sleeps

Me And Lazarus

Tree By The River

Half Moon

Rabbit Will Run

Godless Brother In Love

Big Burned Hand

Your Fake Name Is Good Enough For Me

Hey, maybe I will get lucky and they will play for hours on end and play each and every song I picked! I can dream, can't I?

Download "Southern Anthem" here: http://assets2.subpop.com/assets/audio/2421.mp3

For more info and tour dates click here: http://www.ironandwine.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-06-08T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. The Appleseed Cast - "Middle States" (Atmospheric and affecting, the title track to the long-standing, boundary-breaking group's excellent new EP out now on Graveface Records proves they haven't lost a step. Look for their 8th album due to be released next year on Graveface.) http://www.myspace.com/theappleseedcast

Download: http://www.sendspace.com/file/kvzetk

2. The Rosebuds - "Second Bird Of Paradise" (Dark and moody single from their new album, Loud Planes Fly Low, out now on Merge, is cathartic and beautiful as it reflects their decision to continue the band post-divorce. You can also see them on tour with Bon Iver this Summer.) http://therosebuds.com/

Download: http://www.mergerecords.com/audio/rosebuds/SecondBirdofParadise.mp3

3. The Poison Control Center - "Dracula's Casket" (The Iowa-based band delivers on their eclectic new album Stranger Ballet out now on Afternoon Records with unhinged guitars and crazed vocals to go along with the charged, theatric rock found on the super-catchy new single.)http://thepoisoncontrolcenter.com/

Download: http://www.afternoonrecords.com/mp3/pcc_draculascasket.mp3

31Knots - "Trump Harm"

2011-06-07T09:00:00.001-04:00

Today marks the release of Trump Harm, the seventh album from 31Knots. The Portland band consistently churns out incredibly artistic punk rock that continues to defy classification. The new album was recorded during frontman Joe Haege’s time off from touring with fellow Portland band Menomena, as he became a member early last year and while writing his first solo album, the beat-heavy and synth-driven Chroma Key, under the moniker Vin Blanc, which was also released today in conjunction with Trump Harm on Polyvinyl Records.

“Onanist’s Vacation” opens the album with tumbling drums and bass before Joe comes in with a carnival-barker’s enthusiasm as the track takes on Afro-pop melodies. First single, “Candles On Open Water” is upbeat with a steady, walking bass line and a glassy atmosphere. “Middle Ages” hearkens back to their prog-y earlier material with winding guitars and mesmerizing vocal harmonies. “Egg On My Face” features glitchy and distorted electronics, adding yet another layer to their inventive arrangements. The off-kilter rhythm and extended quasi-bluesy guitar solo of standout track “A Lot Can Tell” is a perfect example of what sets the band apart. The album closes with “One Tongue Room (Come To My Senses)” with a bobbing vocal cadence set to a driving guitar and organ riff.

With Trump Harm, 31Knots proves once again that their anything goes mentality and creativity keeps them one step ahead of everyone else.

Download "Candles On Open Water" here: http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/drop/31Knots-Candles_on_Open_Water.mp3

Download "Red Thread" the piano-led first single from Chroma Key by Vin Blanc, the debut solo album from Joe Haege, here: http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/drop/Vin_Blanc-Red%20_Thread.mp3

For more info click here: www.polyvinylrecords.com and www.myspace.com/31knots

Contest: Communicating Vessels 7" Series

2011-06-06T09:00:00.001-04:00

Communicating Vessels is the label run by Jeffery Cain of Remy Zero. He has released music by his solo project Dead Snares as well as the solo project of the late Gregory Scott Slay, the drummer for Remy Zero who passed away last year.

Currently, he has signed three of his hometown's best songwriters and has released a gorgeously packaged 7" for each one. The Birmingham musicians are Sanders Bohlke, who has shared the stage with everyone from Gomez to Tom Morello; Duquette Johnston, formerly of 90's alt-rockers Verbena, who performs roots rock mixed with dusty folk; and The Great Book of John, the solo project of Taylor Shaw formerly of Wild Sweet Orange and whose ethereal arrangements and crooning voice have been compared to Jeff Buckley.

You can win a copy of all 3 of these limited-edition 7 inches from Communicating Vessels and Atlas and the Anchor. Just send an email to atlasandtheanchor@hotmail.com and tell me your favorite Remy Zero song! One lucky winner will be chosen randomly on Monday June 13th and will be notified by email. Thanks and good luck!

Download:

The Great Book of John - "Let Me Slide": http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/greatbokofjohn_letmeslide.mp3

Sanders Bohlke - "Quiet Ye Voices": http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/sandersbohlke_quietyevoices.mp3

Duquette Johnston - "Roll Baby Roll": http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/duquettejohnston_rollbabyroll.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.communicatingvessels.net/

Dream Concert: Bright Eyes

2011-06-03T09:00:00.003-04:00

Over the years I have seen many of my favorite bands live but many times life has gotten in the way and I have missed them. There is a growing list of bands I want to see. With the Dream Concert feature, I list the set list and venue of my choice for one of my favorite bands that I have yet to experience live. My current selection is Bright Eyes. I have been a fan since 2000 when I first heard Fevers & Mirrors. And now I finally get to see Conor Oberst after waiting well over a decade! Bright Eyes is currently on tour supporting the excellent new album The People's Key and I will be attending the show on Wednesday June 8th at the LC Pavillion in Columbus. If I had my way, here is the set list I would choose for the night.

Set list: (listed in order by album)

The People's Key:

Shell Games

Haile Selallie

Jejune Stars

Approximate Sunlight

One For You, One For Me

Cassadaga:

If The Brakeman Turns My Way

Four Winds

Soul Singer In A Seesion Band

Classic Cars

I'm Wide Awake It's Morning:

We Are Nowhere And It's Now

Lua

First Day Of My Life

Another Travelin' Song

Digital Ash In A Digital Urn:

Take It Easy (Love Nothing)

Easy/Lucky/Free

Hit The Switch

Lifted or The Story Is in the Soil, Keep Your Ear to the Ground:Bowl Of Oranges

You Will. You? Will. You? Will. You? Will.

Make War

From A Balance Beam

Fevers & Mirrors:

Something Vague

A Scale, A Mirror And Those Indifferent Clocks

An Attempt To Tip The Scales

Letting Off The Happiness:

The Difference In The Shades

Pull My Hair

Hey, maybe I will get lucky and I will get to check off many of these songs off of my list...

Download "Something Vague" from Fevers & Mirrors here: http://www.saddle-creek.com/sounds/BrightEyes_SomethingVague.mp3

For more info and tour dates click here: http://www.conoroberst.com/ and http://www.saddlecreekrecords.com/

My Morning Jacket - "Circuital"

2011-06-02T09:00:00.001-04:00

My Morning Jacket returned this week with Circuital, their sixth album and first recorded back home in Kentucky since their break-through album It Still Moves (2003). The new album, while still expanding their limitless sound and no less creative, is much less experimental than Z and Evil Urges but more straight-to-the point and raw, as it was recorded live with very few overdubs.

“Victory Dance” opens the album triumphantly, marking a return to form and the title track, “Circuital”, appropriately sparkles with the same wide-open, classic rock sound that we have been missing. “The Day Is Coming” is heartfelt with punchy piano, a bouncy beat, swirling strings and soulful background vocals. “Wonderful (The Way I Feel)” stands out as a showcase of the band’s beautiful and breezy balladry. “Outta My System” blends Beach Boys-like harmonies with surf-y pedal steel melodies into a lush but jaunty jam. The excellent single “Holdin’ On To Black Metal” has more in common with 70’s psychedelia and funk than it does with its Swedish namesake. “First Light” is a rafters-reaching rock song with skronky horns and unhinged guitars. The bouncy, piano-led “You Wanna Freak Out” features Beatles-esque melodies and a fuzzed-out guitar solo that creates a welcomed dissonance. To close out the album, “Slow Slow Tune”, a 50’s style ballad lives up to its name with ringing guitars and closer “Movin’ Away” allows Jim James space to show off his crooning, vocal chops.

Circuital provides a nice middle ground between their earlier matierial and their more recent experimental indulgences for an excellent album, again showing why they are one of the most inventive and rewarding bands around.

For more info click here: www.mymorningjacket.com

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-06-01T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Seapony - "Blue Star" (The Seattle three-piece or 4-piece, if you count the tiny drum machine used instead of an actual drummer keeps things simple on their debut album Go With Me out now on Hardly Art. Singer Jen Weidl's pretty and melodic voice rises above the fuzzy yet twee guitar lines and steady beat on the album's standout second single.) http://www.myspace.com/seaponyband

Download: http://hardlyart.com/mp3/SP_BlueStar.mp3

2. John LaMonica - "Heartling" (Glitchy, cut-up folktronica with an understated beauty from the producer/songwriter's new album Volunteers out now on Moongadget Records.) www.johnlamonica.com

Download: http://tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/johnlamanica_heartling.mp3

3. Duquette Johnston - "Roll Baby Roll" (Duquette, formerly of the 90's alt-rockers Verbena, blazes a new path with upbeat roots rock steeped in dusty folk for a limited edition 7" released on Communicating Vessels, the label ran by musician/producer Jeffery Cain of Remy Zero.) http://www.communicatingvessels.net/ and http://www.myspace.com/duquettejohnston

Download: http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/duquettejohnston_rollbabyroll.mp3

Interview: Yourself and The Air

2011-05-30T09:00:00.001-04:00

Chicago trio Yourself and The Air create an organic blend of intricate and dreamy indie rock with spacey atmospherics on their excellent fourth EP Who’s Who In The Zoo, released May 24th on Lujo Records. The band has been touring constantly and gliding under the radar for far too long. Who’s Who in the Zoo should finally gain them the attention they deserve.

Here Erick Crosby from Yourself and the Air talks about the band’s new EP, plans for a national tour this summer, and what’s spinning in their stereos.

***

I am excited that Who’s Who In The Zoo is finally out! This is your first release for a label (Lujo Records), how do you think that will help you guys this time around?

I think it will help mostly get our name around to more people, but it also has a good effect us personally. It feels good to have a team to work with and it makes us wanna play better and write more for the future, so that way everyone gets the most out of the situation.

My favorite song on the EP is “Bicycles Plus” and has been since its debut on Daytrotter in 2009. What is your favorite song and why?

I would have to say “Sick Days”, only because it reminds me of when I was little–at least that’s what it’s about.

In reviews you have been compared to many great bands but who and/or what do you say are your influences?

There are so many to name. We were really into the indie rock scene when we were younger, by that I mean bands like Modest Mouse, Built to Spill, Pixies. But nowadays, it’s kind of all over the board. Right now I’m digging Chad Vangaalen.

Who’s Who In The Zoo is your fourth EP. Are you currently writing or planning on a debut full-length in the near future?

Yes, we’re writing at the moment. Hopefully we can have a good amount of songs to put together on a full length for Lujo very soon, but we’re trying our hardest not to rush the process, and to not have to settle on the first songs we write, which has seemed to always be the case in the past. It’s always a bummer when you listen to a song and say, “Man, we should’ve left that one out.” So we’ll try to avoid that as much as we can.

You are getting ready to go out on tour to support the new EP. I saw you last June at the Southgate House in Kentucky when you were on tour with Friendo and let’s just say it wasn’t exactly a packed house, but you guys played like it was! What inspires you while on tour and keeps you going during nights like those?

Well mostly I think we all just enjoy being in other places than home–that’s enough can keep me going forever I feel like. Plus it’s always a bummer when you are that one guy in the place, and the band is super pissed.

What are you guys listening to in the van while on tour?

Lately, NPR. Ha ha! Getting real into talk radio. But I’m making a giant collection of cassette tapes for us to listen to. A lot of foreign music has made its way into that collection, plus a lot of old stuff I never really gave a good listen, like Funkadelic. Also, I’ve been jamming to some newer bands like Thee Oh Sees, Braids, Dustin Wong, Bear in Heaven as of late.

What other bands or musicians would you like to tour or collaborate with?

Hmm…maybe Menomena. We love those guys. It would be nice to write a song with Joe Walsh too. Ha ha, I’m serious though.

What one older and one current song do you wish you would’ve written yourself?

“Black Rice” by Women and “Heroes and Villains” by the Beach Boys.

Besides Erick’s project Hands In, what other side-projects are you guys working on?

Jeff has had a project since High School, called Trancedental, and also Jeff and Drew played a show under Wildcats and Gemstones. I’m unsure if that will turn into something or not.

Not that you would want to, but if you had to, who would you choose to replace yourself in the band?

Ha ha. I would say, John C. Reilly’s character, Dale Doback from Step Brothers, although he deserves packed arenas.

Download "Trampolines" here: http://www.lujorecords.com/media/01%20Trampolines.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.myspace.com/yourselfandtheair and www.lujorecords.com

This interview also appeared on www.indierockreviews.com

Free Friday: Night Moves - "Colored Emotions"

2011-05-27T09:00:00.003-04:00

Minneapolis trio Night Moves (don’t even try to Google them, there are too many Bob Seger-themed wedding bands and nite clubs with the same name!) have just released their new album Colored Emotions as a free download through Afternoon Records.

Their brand of lo-fi indie rock is streaked with sunny psychedelic pop and a reverb-rich wall of sound, like a strange blend of Beachwood Sparks and My Bloody Valentine, for an excellent debut. Echoing drums and soaring synths collide with spacey pedal steel and banjo along with funky, falsetto crooning and breezy melodies on standout tracks, “Headlights”, “Only A Child”, “Old Friends” and “Put Out Your Shoulder”.

Make your move and check out Colored Emotions now!

Download Colored Emotions here: http://www.afternoonrecords.com/coloredemotions.html

For more info click here: http://www.afternoonrecords.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-05-25T09:00:00.004-04:00

1. Bird of Youth - "Bombs Away, She Is Here To Stay" (Fronted by the affecting Nico-like vocals of Beth Wawerna, their self-released debut album Defender, out now, was produced by Will Sheff of Okkervil River and recorded with a host of friends from The National, Nada Surf and The Wrens, among others. Pop-leaning indie rock with hints of Classic rock and New Wave.) http://myspace.com/birdofyouthmusic

Download: http://www.zshare.net/audio/90563202c99487f3/

2. The Elected - "Babyface" (After a long hiatus, Blake Sennett of Rilo Kiley returns to his solo project with a new album Bury Me In My Rings, out now on Vagrant Records. This time around he incorporates funky Talking Heads-like grooves into his mix of sunny, psyche-pop and folk, like on the excellent first single "Babyface". Welcome back!) http://theelectedband.com/

Download: http://s3.amazonaws.com/site-images.vagrant.com/audio_items/286/02_Babyface.mp3

3. Boris - "Riot Sugar" (First single taken from the critically acclaimed Japanese metal band's beyond-heavy new album Heavy Rocks, out now on Sargent House, features crushing drums and guest vocals from Ian Astbury of The Cult. Released in conjunction with Heavy Rocks is the companion album Attention Please which focuses on cinematic, wide-lens soundscapes with string-laden, icy and ethereal atmospherics.) http://www.borisheavyrocks.com/

Download: http://www.sargenthouse.com/boris/RiotSugar.mp3

Yourself and The Air - "Who's Who In The Zoo" EP

2011-05-24T09:00:00.003-04:00

Chicago trio Yourself and The Air create an organic blend of intricate and dreamy indie rock with spacey atmospherics on their excellent fourth EP Who’s Who In The Zoo, released today on their new label Lujo Records.

Shimmering synths and guitars intertwine seamlessly on opener “Trampolines” before punchy processed pizzicato strings and sweeping melodies take over for a dreamy nostalgic trip. Standout track “Sick Days” features chiming glockenspiel and layers of memorable melodies covering every inch of space. The hazy “Bon Voyage” is driven by twinkling, trance-inducing keyboards and a pounding rhythm. Another standout, “Bicycles Plus” opens with harmonica that sounds like it was recorded underwater, rising and falling synths and an off-kilter beat along with lyrics that were inspired by the movie E.T., bringing a sense of child-like enthusiasm. “Colors Alive” is as colorful as its name suggests with an infectious James Mercer-like vocal melody and glimmering guitars. “Ice Age” features muted, tom-heavy drumming and an icy, atmosphere made up of thin guitar lines floating above synth-pad crescendos. And the EP closes with the soaring sing-along chrous and crashing drums of “The Oracle”.

The band has been touring constantly and gliding under the radar for far too long and the Who’s Who At The Zoo EP, should finally gain them the attention they deserve.

Download "Sick Days" here: http://www.tellallyourfriendspr.com/singles/yata_sickdays.mp3

For more info click here: www.myspace.com/yourselfandtheair and http://www.lujorecords.com/

Free Friday: Glorie - "Glorie"

2011-05-20T09:00:00.000-04:00

Memphis instrumental post-rock band Glorie is the new project of Jason Paxton, former frontman of The Satyrs, who formed the group after an eight-year hiatus from playing music. Jason is joined by members of label-mates and psych-pop purveyors Snowglobe and Jonathan Kirkscey, a cellist with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra who has performed live with Cat Power and Al Green.

Their engaging, hypnotic melodies, swirling cello and chilled-out vibraphone set them apart from most instrumental bands. Their self-titled debut was released this week on Makeshift Music and also as a "pay what you want" download on their Bandcamp page.

Download the album Glorie here: http://glorierock.com/

Download "Full Circle" here: http://teamclermont.s3.amazonaws.com/mp3/glorie_fullcircle.mp3

For more info click here: http://myspace.com/glorierock and http://makeshiftmusic.com/

3 Songs: On Repeat

2011-05-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

1. Chad VanGaalen - "Sara" (The prolific songwriter, producer and illustrator's guitar-led fourth album, Diaper Island, out now on Sub Pop is filled with his quirky brand of off-kilter folk-pop for his most consistent album yet.) www.myspace.com/chadvangaalen

Download: http://assets3.subpop.com/assets/audio/9101.mp3

Also check out the EP of album outtakes he released with all proceeds going to the relief work in Japan here: http://chadvangaalen.bandcamp.com/

2. Damon & Naomi - "Walking Backwards" (Taken from False Beats and True Hearts their new album, their 8th, out now on 20/20/20 Records, which celebrates their 25th year of playing and recording together. Vintage organs and smoldering guitars anchor their tight vocal harmonies on the first single.) http://www.damonandnaomi.com/

Download: http://pitchperfectpr.com/mp3/WalkingBackwards.mp3

3. Amor de Días - "Bunhill Fields" (New project from Alasdair MacLean of The Clientele and Lupe Núñez-Fernández of indie-pop duo Pipas. Their name is Spanish for "Love of Days" and their sound incorporates Spanish guitar along with twee chamber-pop. Their debut album Street of the Love of Days is out now on Merge and catch them on tour with Damon & Naomi as well.) http://www.amordedias.com/

Download: http://www.mergerecords.com/audio/amordedias/bunhill_fields.mp3

Okkervil River - "I Am Very Far"

2011-05-17T09:00:00.000-04:00

Okkervil River returned last week with the release of I Am Very Far, their first album of new material since 2007. After contributing songs to the latest Norah Jones and The New Pornographers albums, and producing for the legendary Roky Erickson, frontman Will Sheff was inspired to write and produce this new album himself. Free of any album-wide concepts like the last two albums, I Am Very Far is a true showcase for Sheff’s literary lyrics set to darker and moodier take on their brand of country-leaning indie rock.

“The Valley” opens the album with discordant piano notes, frenetic strings, pounding drums and close-knit vocal harmonies throughout. The heavier and moody “Piratess” features a creative solo created by fast-forwarding and rewinding a boombox, highlighting the more experimental nature of the album. Standout track “Rider” bursts from the speakers with a huge, live sound that came from recording the song with two drummers, two pianists, and seven guitarists. The atmosphere and lyrics on “White Shadow Waltz” invoke a sense of paranoia with stabbing strings and rumbling percussion. Another standout track, “We Need A Myth” features angelic harp-like piano trills and a clever arrangement that represents their rough-around-the-edges pop sensibility. “Show Yourself” is laid back but with swells of feedback and noise breaking through, and ends with a frenzied guitar solo. The excellent first single, “Wake And Be Fine” was recorded in the same manner as “Rider” with a large band, featuring a crowded arrangement, but the lilting strings and vocal melodies hover above the crowd. And the album closes with the lushly orchestrated and piano-led “The Rise”.

Will and the band took great care in writing, re-writing and editing I Am Very Far until they were finally satisfied with the results and I think you will be too.

Download "Wake And Be Fine" here: http://www.scjag.com/mp3/jag/wakeandbefine.mp3

For more info click here: http://www.okkervilriver.com/ and http://jagjaguwar.com/