Ryan Adams at The Gypsy Tearoom

I came across this little gem today, Ryan Adams live at the old Gypsy Tearoom, June 17, 2005.  I haven't been able to listen to it all yet, but, the quality is fantastic.  If it's not off the soundboard, then, it's by someone who really knows how to make a bootleg recording.  I was hoping this is the show where he got pissed and stormed off the stage because of the crowd noise.  But, I don't think it is.

You can listen to the show on the player below.  If you wish, you can download it here.

Setlist:

Love Is Hell
New York, New York
To Be Young
Magnolia Mountain
Easy Plateau
What Sin
Shakedown on 9th
Dear Chicago
When The Stars Go Blue
Please Do Not Let Me Go (aborted)
Please Do Not Let Me Go (resumed)
Kiss Before I Go
The End
Rescue Blues
Texas, Texas, Texas
Wonderwall
Come Pick Me Up
Mockingbird Song
Beautiful Sorta

Tickets To The New Frontiers Final Show

Yep, it is indeed a sad day in The D when a super talented  band goes away.  But, that's what is happening to the phenomenal The New Frontiers.  

They were on our best of list this year for album and single and this Saturday will be their final show at Club Dada.  So, that being said I have two pairs of tickets to give away for the show.  So, the first two people to email me with "Look at Miss Ohio" in the subject line will get them.  Make sure to give me your name too.

MP3:  The New Frontiers - Look at Miss Ohio (Gillian Welch Cover)

New Morrissey "I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris"

Yep, here's the newest of the new from the man who put the "M" in Manchester.  It's Morrissey at his best:  crooning about how nobody loves him.  With Morrissey, you know what you're in for and he doesn't disappoint with this one.

As I told you a couple of weeks ago Morrissey is coming back to the D and this new songs makes me just as excited.  

MP3:  Morrissey - I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris

We Swim You Jump

So, you think the best thing to come out of the Netherlands was wooden shoes, dikes and Amsterdam?  Not so fast my friend!

We Swim You Jump have released their eponymous EP to great delight around the BFD office since it popped up in our inbox.  The debut effort shimmers with pop delight reminiscent of the Doves LP The Last Broadcast, particularly on "Sparks Fade Out."  You can get their debut EP here--it's worth it.

MP3:  We Swim You Jump - Frames on the Wall

MP3:  We Swim You Jump - Sparks Fade Out

Mash-Up Monday

Did you guys miss me?  Yeah, I took a little time out to visit the famn damily last week for the holidays and all.  But, we're back and getting ready for the new year.  

I'm bringin' sexy back today--well, that and After Christ/Devil Comes.  What does that even mean?  Well, todays mash mixes and mashes Justin Timberlake's "Sexy Back" with AC/DC's "Hell's Bells."  The bell from "Hell's Bells" use to creep me out bigtime when I was younger.  I guess because I figured it tolled for me.  But, then I just realized it was letting us know it was time to rock.

MP3:  Justin Timberlake vs. AC/DC - Sexy Hell

Happy Birthday Jesus, I Hope You Like Crap!

Happy Birthday, Jesus.  I hope you get everything you want this year.  All I got were socks and underwear!

But, seriously, BFD wishes you and yours a Merry Christmas!  Oh, and tomorrow is my birthday.  

MP3:  I'm So Look You - Last Christmas

Mash-Up Monday

Yep, it's the last mash-up Monday before Christmas.  This one is party ready, or, a good one to get you ready for the party.  It takes "Sharp Dressed Man" and mashes it up with "Get The Party Started" by Pink.  Yep, Pink.

MP3:  Sharp Dressed Party - ZZ Top vs. Pink

Happy Holidays From Har Mar Superstar

Everybody's favorite faux-Ron Jeremy brings you this little gem for the holiday season.  For some reason, I get the feeling this isn't to far off of his day-to-day life.

Mysplice 3

Yep, the good folks over at Stereogum have released their annual mashup collabo with Team9.  At first blush I wasn't to hot on it, but, then I got to listening to the tracks are there are a few really good ones.  "Lockdown Shelter" the Rolling Stones vs. Kanyain't is good, "Britney Get's Bloc-ed," "Debbie Does Montreal" and "Albert and Katy Sitting In A Tree" are also good.  

So, you can download it for free here.  

Best of 2008

It's been a great year for new music here at BFD. We've seen a lot of bands and heard even more. So, now it's time for my list of the best and brightest of the '08. I was just going to do a top 10 of albums and songs, but, then I realized that there were more albums and singles I liked than just 10 of each. So, it's top 10 plus some.

Feel free to let me know if you like the choices or add what you think are better. Discussion is good for you and always encouraged.

BEST ALBUMS

15. Amplive - Radiohead Rainydayz Remixes

14. The Uglysuit - The Uglysuit

13. The Broken West - Now or Heaven

12. Uh Huh Her - Common Reaction

11. Fleet Foxes - Sun Giant EP

10. The Helio Sequence - Keep Your Eyes Ahead

9. Portishead - Third

8. The Weepies - Hideaway

7. The New Frontiers - Mending

6. Matt Miller - EPII

5. Headlights - Some Racing, Some Stopping

4. She & Him - Vol. 1

3. Kings of Leon - Only By The Night

2. School of Seven Bells - Alphinisms

1. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - Pershing

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BEST SINGLES

19. The Cool Kids - "Pennies"

18. Okkervil River - "Lost Coastlines"

17. Eastwood - "Right Place, Wrong Time"

16. Ladytron - "Ghosts"

15. Q-Tip - "Gettin' Up"

14. Amplive - "Weird Fishez"

13. Minus The Bear - "Throwin' Shapes"

12. Empire of The Sun - "Walking On a Dream"

11. School of Seven Bells - "Chain"

10. The Helio Sequence - "Keep Your Eyes Ahead"

9. Uh Huh Her - "Not a Love Song"

8. Grand Ole Party - "Look Out Young Son"

7. Headlights - "Cherry Tulips"

6. Kings of Leon - "Crawl"

5. The New Frontiers - "Look At Miss Ohio"

4. Lisa Miskovsky - "Still Alive (Teddybears Mix)"

3. Wye Oak - "Warning"

2. Matt Miller - "The Question Still Remains"

1. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - "Modern Mystery"

Yep, these are all the albums and singles that have tickled my fancy this year. I hope you enjoy and keep reading.

The Moz Comes Back To The D

Yeppers, the world's most famous asexual vegan is coming back to The D.  He will be playing the Palladium Ballroom on April 10.  That seems to be a fitting place for him to play.  Although, it would've been a sweet to if he could've played at the Granada.  I saw him a few years ago in OKC and it was one of the best shows I've been to.  It had all the things you would expect, concert goers bringing him flowers, jumping up on stage, Moz swinging his mic cord in true crooner fashion.

His stop in Dallas will be in support of his new album Years of Refusal--as you can see the above cover.  I'm not sure what's more disturbing about the cover; the fact that he's visibly uncomfortable holding a baby and doesn't really know how to hold one or the fact the baby is happy with a large hand on his/her junk.

MP3:  Morrissey - Satan Rejected My Soul

Tour dates:

02/28/08 Boca Raton, FL @ Mizner Park
03/01/08 Orlando, FL @ Hard Rock live
03/03/08 Jacksonville, FL @ Florida Theater
03/04/08 St. Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Landing
03/06/08 Myrtle Beach, SC @ House of Blues
03/07/08 Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse
03/09/08 Asheville, NC @ Orange Peel
03/11/08 Durham, NC @ Durham Performing Arts Center
03/13/08 Richmond, VA @ The National
03/14/08 Washington, DC @ Warner Theater
03/16/08 Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theater
03/17/08 Pittsburgh, PA @ Carnegie Music Hall
03/19/08 Buffalo, NY @ University of Buffalo Center for the Arts
03/21/08 New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom
03/22/08 Philadelphia, PA @ Acadmy of Music
03/25/08 New York, NY @ Webster Hall
03/26/08 New York, NY @ Carnegie Hall
03/28/08 Mashantucket, CT @ Foxwoods
03/29/08 Boston, MA @ House of Blues
03/31/08 Ann Arbor, MI @ Michigan Theater
04/01/08 Columbus, OH @ Palace Theater
04/03/08 Milwaukee, WI @ Eagles Ballroom
04/04/08 Chicago, IL @ Aragon Ballroom
04/06/08 Minneapolis, MN @ State Theater
04/07/08 Kansas City, MO @ Midland Theater
04/08/08 St. Louis, MO @ Pageant Theater
04/10/08 Dallas, TX @ Palladium Ballroom
04/11/08 Houston, TX @ Jesse H. Jones Hall
04/12/08 Austin, TX @ Bass Concert Hall
04/14/08 El Paso, TX @ Chavez Theater
04/15/08 Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater

Under Cover

I really think Ben Gibbard needs to get out of my head.  This year I've heard three fantastic covers he or Death Cab have done.  The latest one is "I Wanna Be Adored" by The Stone Roses.  Yep, I be lovin' the Roses and this is definitely one of my favorite songs of theirs.  But, since the Roses only released two albums, pretty much all of their songs are great.

This cover is pretty faithful to the original, but ya know, with the Gibbard/Death Cab voicey thing going on.  It's a bootleg, so, it's sound is pretty decent.  One thing I like about it is the one guy who "woos" at the beginning of the song.  It seems that he's pretty much the only one who knows what goodness the bubble bass line is about to bring.  Woo!

MP3:  Death Cab For Cutie - I Wanna Be Adored (Stone Roses Cover) 

Neko Case Let's You In

I believe the night I saw Neko Case at the Granada was the night I fell in love with her.  She has a beautiful, honey smooth voice and is fun to look at.  Her music has the been-there-done-that quality with stories that are easily relatable to you yourself and those you know.

With that being said, enjoy the behind the scenes whilst she tells her tale of creating her new album Middle Cyclone.

School of Seven Bells Decompose

So, I was-a-pokin' around yesterday on Stereogum and they started up a brand new feature called "Decomposed."  Think of it as Unplugged for the Indie crowd.  Anyhoo, their first guest was School of Seven Bells who released one of the best albums this year, Alphinisms.  

The band is an odd choice for this project since it's supposed to play stripped down versions of their songs...which could be kind of difficult for a band that relies heavily on electronics.  But, SVIIB pulled it off quite nicely.  The dual voices of the Dehaza sisters are supurb and shows they aren't in need of studio magic to sound good.

Below is the vidie for "iamundernodisguise."  You can check out the other videos for "Connjur" and "Caldo" and get mp3's for "Chain" and "Connjur" here.

They Are The Resurrection

The Stone Roses were arguable the seminal Britpop band during the "Madchester" music scene in jolly old Manchester, England.  Their songs were inspired by the house music movement at the time and the good ol' rock and/or roll.  Their debut album, The Stone Roses, will turn 20 years old next year, and it's one of my absolute favorite albums of all-time.  All-time--probably number one.

So, I was happier than a pig in slop when I read that Mani, Reni and John are all up for a reunion to celebrate their debut album.  The only hold up is Ian Brown, lead singer, the only one with a really good career.  (Well, Mani went on to work with Primal Scream, but, joining a popular band doesn't really count.  But, at least he's paying his bills.)  Sure, the Smiths could get back together, okay.  Siouxie and The Banshees, cool.  But, if The Stone Roses reunited I would probably literally poop my pants with excitement.

MP3:  The Stone Roses - I Am The Resurrection 

Mash-Up Monday

This mash-up was quite shocking when I first saw it. I checked it out because I was such an unusual pairing--Billy Joel vs. Jay-Z. And, it was a Billy Joel song I had never heard before, well, since I'm not a Billy Joel fan and what not. To this point, all I really remember about Billy Joel is when the super-cool lifeguards use to play it at the swimming pool when I was a pup.

But, when I listened to it what came through my headphones was genius. I never knew that the former Mr. Christy Brinkley had such aggression in him. And to have that paired up with a Timbo beat is incredible.

MP3: Billy Joel vs. Jay-Z - Big Shot Pimpin'

Travis Barker Gets Dope Boy Fresh

While I wasn't a huge fan of the original version of "Jockin' Jay-Z" this remixed version of it puts it in the world of rock and/or roll.  Travis Barker puts in work remixing this one with the heavy handed boom-bap on the drums that he's known for.  It has a more rocked out feel than "99 Problems," and it has some nice Miami Bass hits in it that sound sweet coming out of the ol' speakers. (via Nah Right)

MP3:  Jay-Z - Jockin' Jay-Z (Travis Barker Remix)

Best of 2008: Guest Blogger Edition

That's right, it's December, it's Friday, so you know what that means--list time y'all!  This week BFD is honored to post a best album contribution from Dallas' own Kelly over at The Gobblers Knob.  If you don't know about The Knob, it's a great blog about all things Americana, Country, Alt-Country and the like.  

One thing I can say, me and The Knob have one shared album as one of the best of the '08.  You'll see the BFD list next week or the week after--it just depends on a couple of things.  That being said, we now present the "Best of 2008" albums from The Gobbler's Knob.

10. Austin Collins - Roses are Black

9. My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges
8. The Hold Steady - Stay Positive
7. Collin Herring - Past Life Crashing
6. 1100 Springs - Country Jam
5. New Frontiers - Mending
4. Reckless Kelly - Bulletproof
3. The Drive by Truckers - Brighter Than Creation's Dark
2. Kathleen Edwards - Asking for Flowers
1. Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson - Rattlin' Bones

You Like Free Stuff Music, Right?

Conor Oberst and the label he founded, Team Love, has taken a novel approach to getting their music to the masses.  They've opened up portions of their music library for free download, in part to circumvent music piracy.

Every month (or so) they will offer up selections from their library including entire albums, B-sides and live recordings.  This approach takes the notion of "pay what you want" and not only turns in on it's ear but kicks it out the door.  Normally, most Indie labels will at least offer free downloads of singles, but, to offer an entire album is quite something else (obviously).  

All you have to do is go to their website and register for a "library card" which is giving them your email and setting a user name and password.  After your set, you can get any of the offerings they have for the month (or so).  Before you wonder how the label is going to make any money--the albums have already been release prior to being offered for free.

I've already taken advantage and downloaded Rabbit Fur Coat by Jenny Lewis and The Watson Twins.  I always meant to pick that album up but never did.  Listening to it now, I know why I should've picked it up earlier.

MP3:  Jenny Lewis - The Big Guns

Have I Got a Little Story For You

Dag, yo!  I wish I wasn't in such a pinch right now or I'd totally order the super deluxe edition of the upcoming reissue of the Pearl Jam classic Ten.  I've said it before, I'll say it again and again...huge PJ fan here, peeps.

Among the many things you will get if you buy it:  DVD release of their MTV Unplugged, four albums, remastered CD's,  and unreleased show from September 20, 1992, concert at Seattle's Magnuson Park (dubbed Drop in the Park) and a bunch of other stuff too.  Check it all out here or order it here.

But, the best part is there are going to be four unreleased songs that accompany the package.  Breath" and "State of Love and Trust," (which were on the Singles soundtrack) "Brother" (with vocals, not the instrumental version from the 2003 rarities collection "Lost Dogs"), "Just a Girl," "Evil Little Goat" and "2,000 Mile Blues," a Stevie Ray Vaughan-inspired jam with improvised vocals from frontman Eddie Vedder.  Should be sweet!

Under Cover

Those crazy dudes in Radiohead, always doing something I wouldn't expect them to do.  This time they covered the U2 classic "Sunday Bloody Sunday."  The band replaced the originals urgency for a more dour, slowed down version.  

Everytime I hear or think about "Sunday Bloody Sunday" I'm reminded of a girl I grew up with.  She thought the song was "Someday, Bloody Someday."  I've always found her mis-hearing of it to be quite funny.  But, she was always a funny girl.  

MP3:  Radiohead - Sunday Bloody Sunday

Reality Stranger Than Fiction

Have you ever wondered what what it would sound like if band nerds experimented with drugs, samplers and other electronic instruments?  Well, I'm not sure about the drugs part, but, I think  they would sound like Austin, TX's Fiction.

On their debut EP You Never Will, the band is both sides of the musical coin.  At times wildly experimental with songs like "Chew on Tongues" and others in line with the music typical music structure and sound like "Tiger! Tiger!"  I think you could sum it up with this:  imagine either a lounge act/orchestra with a mean backbeat produced by a drum machine and sequencers.  That might do it.  Maybe.

MP3:  Fiction - Bellydown  

WTF?!

Since I got a 9 to 5er I don't get to watch Late Night with Conesey as much as I'd like to.  I've been a fan of his version of the show ever since he took over for Dave.  But, how exactly is the this going to work out?

Surely the world class Roots crew isn't going to give up recording and touring.  So, how exactly are they going to be Jimmy Fallon's full-time house band?  Odd.

Minipop Interview

I recently got to do a Q&A with Matthew Swanson from one of my favorite-ist bands, Minipop.  They hail from the great Bay in San Francisco, CA and their album A New Hope has been a constant in my CD player for the better part of this year.  I first heard about them via an article on Spin.com that was highlighting acts at the 2008 SXSW conference.  They had a single to download called "Like I Do," I swear to got I listened to that damn song like 10 times in a row.  It's catchy as hell and has a rich, warm sound.  If you like early 90's female fronted bands then you'll love these guys.  Oh, and there's a mp3 and video after the interview. 

To start off, I'd like to ask the obvious (at least to me) question about the inter-band dynamic.  With the band being two dudes and two girls, have you guys gone all Fleetwood Mac and hooked up with each other?  The road does get lonely, ya know?

Non amiamo parlare realmente di ciò che continua nella nostra banda o viveri personali. Lei può usare la sua immaginazione ed è probabilmente vicino alla realtà.

Is Minipop your main thing in your life or do you guys grind the 9 to 5?

We have jobs outside of Minipop, nothing 9 to 5, more part time work and such.  Lauren and Tricia are actually about to go to school in January so we're going to be taking a break while they start school and we work on the new album.

What do you think about blog hype? Do you see any benefits from it?

I'm sure there's a lot to the blog hype thing.  We never got much blog hype, we're not really an in the moment band, our roots are in the early 90's alternative music scene, which isn't really a big thing these days.  Maybe it'll come up as the 80's thing dies down.

It's been about a years since A New Hope was released--do you have plans on a follow-up soon?  Are you in the studio now?

We'll be tracking drums in december and doing over dubs throughout January (and) February.

Will your new music sound like what you've done on your debut LP or do you want to go in a new direction?

Since Tricia's voice is at the forefront of what we do It'll be similiar in emotion to our past recordings.  Some of the music has some new flavor to it but I'd say it'll be a Minipop record and have the Minipop sound.

What other music are you guys listening to currently?

I've been listening to a bit of UB40, Metric and Deerhunter lately.  Tricia is most likely listening to Christmas music and Etta James.

Is any one band in particular influential on the band?

Not really.  Tricia is influenced a lot by Hope Sandoval of Mazzy Star.  Musically we are influenced by early 90's music like Catherine Wheel, Smashing Pumpkins and My Bloody Valentine.

I've listened to A New Hope a bunch of times now and the comparison that keeps coming to me is an American version of The Sundays. Has anyone drawn that comparison before?

We've got The Sunday's, Cranberries, Mazzy Star, Belly.  There aren't a ton of girl fronted alternative bands so it's a pretty small group to grab comparisons to.  We're down with all those bands.

I read that you played in Oklahoma with the Smoking Popes to like 10 people. I'm originally an Oklahoma boy, where was that show?

It was a venue called the Mooch and Burn.  It was actually a really fun show.  Everyone there was really cool and attentive and we played really well.  One of those small shows that you remember really well and fondly.  Fun night.  Tulsa was a bit of a trip, good mexican food.

I've read that you guys have a big following in you hometown. What is the reaction like to you guys when you're on the road?

We've had a lot of positive feedback on the road.  We aren't drawing that well across the country but it seems to be growing a little bit.  We weren't able to tour quite as much as we'd hoped this year but hopefully next year we'll get back out there.

Do you have any future plans of touring in Dallas? Are you planning on going to SXSW again this year?

Our next show will be SXSW, we'll be recording up until then.

What is the best show you have played? Best show you've seen as a fan?

Our best show outside of the bay area was probably in Boston at The Middle East.  We headlined there on our last tour and it was a truly great show, great turnout and we played with some great bands.  Playing in Omaha with Tokyo Police Club was nice too.  This year I think Sigur Ros at The Greek Theater in Berkeley was my favorite show.

I always ask this, so, I have to know: what do you guys listen to on the road? Is there anything all of you agree on or is the driver in charge of the music?

Some albums we listened to on our last tour were In Rainbows by Radiohead, The Heartless Bastards, Lauren's mix CD's.  We have a DVD player in the van so we watch a lot of My So Called Life, Family Ties, Strangers With Candy and Quantum Leap.

MP3:  Minipop - Like I Do

Mash-Up Monday

My brother actually sent this to me the other day and I thought I'd share.  It combines the greatness of Madonna's best years ("La Isla Bonita") and Marvin Gaye ("What's Goin' On?").  I know, how can you combine the Material Girl/Mom with the seriousness of Marvin's song?  Well, it definitely doesn't lose any of the emotion Marvin had in the song.  His voice over the flaminco guitars is fantastic.  It's a lively update of two classics.  Enjoy.

MP3:  Marvin Gaye vs. Madonna  - What's Goin' on on La Isla Bonita? (DJ Earlybird Mashup)

Headlights Remixes

Last week we told you about the remix album being put out by Champaign, IL group (and one of my favorites) Headlights.

Well, thanks to Polyvinyl I got my grubby little hands on the album.  Some of the new mixes on the album are subtle, yet different.  The best example of this is "Cherry Tulips."  The feel of the song is still there, but, it's enhanced and and still upbeat with the addition of bongos and a bubbling bass.  The remix of "Market Girl" is almost completely different from the addition.  It's built around the original keyboard with the addition of electronic drums.  Instead of poppy version it's been transformed into an down tempo electro stunner.  The reimagining of "School Boys" is also greatness adding some bells, bubbling bass and reverb...awesome.

Basically, if you like Headlights you'll love this album.  It reinvents the songs without taking the original emotion out of the songs.

MP3:  Headlights - Cherry Tulips (T.J. Lipple Remix)

Live Spoon In Denton!!

It's a cold, cold day her in The D and days like this lend themselves to searching for random shiz on the world wide interweb. So, I found this little gem while looking for something else: Spoon bootleg from right here in the DdFW are circa 2002. It's a live taping of their show at September 10, 2002 at Rubber Gloves up north there in Denton. If I'm not mistaken this is pre-O.C., so, they were popular, but, not among the SMU crowd yet.

I'm a bigtime fan of this band, so, the best part for me is the one-two-three...four (!) punch of songs off Series of Sneaks that I've yet to hear the handfull of times I've seen them live.

You can get the show here, along with a boat load more from many, many artists.

Setlist:
1. Intro
2. Something To Look Forward To
3. Me & the Bean
4. Take A Walk
5. Lines in The Suit
6. 30 Gallon Tank
7. Metal Detektor
8. Utilitarian
9. Minor Tough
10. Everything Hits At Once
11. The Way We Get By
12. Paper Tiger
13. Someone Something
14. All The Pretty Girls Go To City
15. I Could See The Dude
16. Fitted Shirt
17. Anything You Want
18. Jonathon Fisk
19. Chicago At Night
20. Car Radio
21. Waiting For The Dude

Best of 2008: Guest Blogger Edition

It's been a great year here at Bona Fide Darling. We've met some great people and heard some great music.

Luckily, we've made some blogger friends along the way. That being said I've asked a few local bloggers I like to help me out with a "Best of 2008" list. So, every Friday this month I'm gonna hit you with a list from local bloggers I've come to know. Now, these are from blogs that I read everyday--they ain't just any geek off the street.

First up is Cory from Subservient Experiment. He has very similar tastes to mine, not completely, but, similar. However, I do dig his taste in music.

Singles

1. Of Montreal - Id Engager
2. Little Joy - Next Time Around
3. Ben Folds - You Don't Know Me (feat. Regina Spektor)
4. Vampire Weekend - M79
5. Q-TIp - Gettin' Up
6. Busta Rhymes - Don't Touch Me (Travis Barker remix)
7. Mount Righteous - Sea Man
8. The Ting Tings - Great DJ
9. Estelle - American Boy (feat. Kanye West)
10. Toadies - So Long Lovey Eyes
11. Nick Gallant - Turn Yourself Around
12. Paper Route Gangsters - Bama Gettin' Money (Diplo remix)
13. The Raconteurs - Salute Your Solution
14. Metallica - The Judas Kiss
15. Kings of Leon - Sex on Fire

Albums

10. The Ting Tings - We Started Nothing
09. Metallica - Death Magnetic
08. Estelle - Shine
07. The Raconteurs - Consolers of the Lonely
06. Vampire Weekend - Vampire Weekend
05. The Toadies - No Deliverance
04. Mount Righteous - When the Music Starts
03. Of Montreal - Skeletal Lamping
02. Q-Tip - The Renaissance
01. Little Joy - Little Joy

Local Boys Done Good

So, it's been a good day for the Oklahoma (on-and-off) bred Kings of Leon.  The brothers Followill were nominated for three Grammy's: Best Rock Record for Only By The Night, Best Rock Song and Best Rock Performancy By Duo or Group With Vocals for "Sex on Fire."

On the other hand, in an interview with Q Magazine Caleb came off like a total puss.  He said he battled with anorexia at a your age.  Really?  You have a penis, right?  I kid, I kid.  But, he's manned up since then and started drinking and smoking grass.  So, it's all good.

Next subject, I don't know how to classify this version of "Knocked Up."  It's supposedly going to be on the "Use Somebody" single as a B-Side.  It's being called a mash-up, but, it's not really.  Considering Lykke Li sings the actual lyrics of the song.  So, it's not really a mash-up.  A cover tune maybe?  But, what ever you want to call it you can call it good.

MP3:  Kings of Leon vs. Lykke Li - Knocked Up (Rodeo Mash-up)

Bed-Stuy Where You At?

I finally listened to "Brooklyn Go Hard" by Jay-Z featuring Santogold that will be on the new B.I.G. biopic Notorious. I really don't like Christopher Wallace's mom, she seems to me like she's ready to make a livin' off of her sons death and legacy. But, that's just me. I think it has a lot do with the episode of Behind The Music she was on several years ago. When she spoke about her son it just seemed a little fake to me. But, I digress.

Anyhoo, I checked out the Kanyain't produced track that actually samples Santogold's "Shove It." Loves it, classic Jay rhymes. But, the video for it is pretty cool as well. Just the letters in Brooklyn make it up. Check it here.

MP3: Jay-Z ft. Santogold - Brooklyn Go Hard

Calexico Carried To Dust

I'm a little late to the Calexico train...like way late.  But, the other day ago I got their latest album Carried To Dust and I've been captivated ever since.  I've always really liked flamenco guitar and mariachi horns and it seems as though Calexico can fill both of those things in one beautiful stroke.  

At times listening to songs like the stunning "The News About William" is like being on a trail ride with Glenn Ford in an old western.  At other times songs like "Victor Jara's Hands" and "Two Silver Trees" is like sitting on the front stoop of an adobe home in the Southwest as you listen to your buddies play their guitars.  The interplay between Spanish and English singing is amazing. 

This album is nothing short of beautiful.  Even though I'm late to the greatness of Calexico I'll be sure to be picking up more of their albums and catching their live show.

MP3:  Calexico - Two Silver Trees (via Touch and Go)

"Old Enough" Now With Ricky Skaggs!

Jack White will probably never cease to amaze me. He's a fantastic guitar player and he has a love for the history of music. Sure, working with Loretta Lynn caught me off guard. But, working with Bluegrass legend Ricky Scaggs is even more out of left field. My love for the Bluegrass has grown by leaps and bounds the last several years, so, this clip is more than welcome.

Two more things: 1) Ashley Monroe is fun to look at. 2) Jack White is starting to look like the devil. He's all pale with black hair and a weird look on his face. Now all he needs it to have a hound dog with him at all times and he'll be set.

Built By Snow

It seems that Austin has not shortage of bands--and good ones at that.  You can put Built By Snow into the category of the good ones.  Their catchy, glitchy keyboard driven rock is on par with The Rentals.  Don't let the "keyboard driven rock" thing turn you off, there is definitely some mean geetars in thar too on their debut LP MEGA.  

The group says it's sound is influenced by The Cars, Devo and 8-Bit Nintendo.  Well, if Nintendo is one of their influences, "Implode Alright" sounds like it directly sampled one of the early fantasy games.  As the blips and beeps of a game soundtrack gives way to a buzzy, buzzy bass and turns the rock on.  Songs like album opener "Giant Robot Attack" and "Something In 3D" have a definite party ready Rentals and Devo quality to them.  

The only drawback from their songs is most of them are two-two and a half minutes long.  They are excellent songs that leave you wanting more.  

Their debut MEGA will be out January 20, but, you can get their EP Noise here.  It's honestly going to be really hard to pick one song to post, so, I'm going to give it my best shot.

MP3:  Built By Snow - All The Weird Kids Know

Mash-Up Madness

This mash-up caught me off guard and by surprise.  I thought I clicked on something totally different and when this one started I was hooked.  It mashes up the greatness of Chris Isaak and Billy Idol...and HIM, but, only at the very end.  

Since I always go on and on about how good mash-ups are by two totally different artists, this one fits that profile to a "T."  Check it bitches.

MP3: DJ Schmolli - Wicked Wedding (Chris Isaak vs. Billy Idol vs. HIM)

Oh, and if you didn't know already, let Granny Teller school you on mash-ups.  No, really.

Release Photons Torpedo!

I got an email the other day about a little (not really) group out of San Francisco called Photons.  Now, it could've been awesome like proton packs or kill me like proton torpedos.  Luckily, it was awesome like a proton pack!

The groups sound on their eponymous six song EP ranges anywhere from the "Take Me out" party shuffle of Franz Ferdinand on a song like "What Do You Want From Me" to sweet Indie-pop on "This Must Be Love."  Musically, their sound is amazing considering the marching band instruments they play.  Everything from bassoon to clarinet to, yes, glockenspiel!  Luckily, the instrumentation of the eight-person group doesn't get in the way of each other.  Each instrument sounds meticulously placed into just the right spot never getting in the way of the other.  

The group shows a lot of promise for a band that has only been together since the Spring of this year.  I wouldn't be surprised at all if you hear a lot of things about Protons in the '09, y'all.  

MP3:  Photons - This Must Be Love

Headlights Remix Album

The last few weeks Some Racing, Some Stopping has been the soundtrack to my Madden playing. It's definitely one of my favorite albums to come out this year. Today the band announced they will release a limited hand-numbered remix album. The album will feature songs from Some Racing, Some Stopping, The Enemies EP and Kill Them With Kindess.

I doubt the songs are going to be certified club bangers or anything like that. I would think they would just be a "re-imagining" of the songs since T.J. Lipple of Aloha is envolved in the project. Other remixers include The Album Leaf, Casiotone for the Painfully Alone, Son Lux, as well as Cale Parks.

Stream the T.J. Lipple remix of "Cherry Tulips" here.

MP3: Headlights - Cherry Tulips 
MP3: Headlights - TV 

Under Cover

One of the things I really like about Old Crow Medicine Show is how they can turn a song you know by heart on it's ear.  Case-in-point: Bob Marley's "Soul Rebel."

Obviously these Ithica, NY buskers share little in the way of the hardships known by Bob Marley.  But, their interepretation has a sense that makes you feel like they've lived it.  It still has the gentle strum of a reggae guitar, but the Bluegrass strings added to it give it a down home feel without shedding the original versions sentiment.

MP3:  Old Crow Medicine Show - Soul Rebel

The Helio Sequence Keep Your Eyes Ahead

I've been meaning to put out the good word on this album for quite a while now.  When I first heard the title track "Keep Your Eyes Ahead" I was instantly in love with Portland, OR duo known as The Helio Sequence.

Keep Your Eyes Ahead is an album that can't be pinned down to one distinct sound.  It shifts effortlessly through Shoegaze and Britpop sounds, to New Romantic and folk all without leaving you jarred by the changes in style.  The album starts off in the Shoegaze fashion with "Lately" and the spectacular "Can't Say No" and then into a New Romantic feel of "The Captive Mind."  The stunning picking on "Shed Your Love" adds to the honest lyrics and approachable vocals that are a highlight of the album.  Vocalist Brandon Summers has a very Dylan-esque sound and Beat poet feel to it on "Shed Your Love" and "Broken Afternoon."

"Keep Your Eyes Ahead" is the most interesting songs on the album.  For a duo, a drummer and guitarist only, the sound the dense, rich sound they are able to make is amazing.  It's an example of how they use programming, keys and sequencers to give their two-tone sound into a fuller dynamic.

Even though I just now (read: finally) heard this album so late in the year, I think it easily has to be one of top albums of the year.  There are a lot of artists who try to make music that sounds like what The Helio Sequence does with a full band and they pull it off with just two people.

MP3: The Helio Sequence - Keep Your Eyes Ahead (via Subpop)

MP3: The Helio Sequence - Can't Say No (via Subpop) 

Ugly Name, Beautiful Music

Don't let the name The Uglysuit fool you, this Oklahoma City band makes the beautiful music, my friends.  I had seen their name tossed around on Oklahoma Rock Blog, and when I checked them out on Myspace, I saw the descriptor "psychedelic" and I thought 'meh, no thanks.'  I didn't need to go through anything like their Norman brethren the Evangelicals again.  But, I checked out their Daytrotter Session from yesterday and was blown the eff back.  Looks like the band was worthy of their feature on the "Breaking Blog" on Rollingstone.com.

I'm not sure where the "psychedelic" description comes in--unless it's regarding the Polyphonic Spree-like choral harmonies.  But, as I get through my second repeat listening of their debut album The Uglysuit, I would have to say they share more in common with the sunny sounds of the 60's California pop sound...or that new dang-fangled indie-pop sound (Think the Afternoon Naps mixed with the Beach Boys) the kids keep talking about.  

One thing I will say is: do NOT sleep on this band!  Their album is worth an immediate download from iTunes or buy the CD (yes, it's that good I shit you not).  

Oh, and check out their video for "Chicago" below.

MP3:  The Uglysuit - Chicago

Portishead "Magic Doors" Video

Looks like it's a very video friendly day around here. Over at Stereogum they premiered the new Portishead video "Magic Door." But, by the power vested in my by the interweb, I bring it to you.

It's a pretty interesting piece, but, kinda boring. A lot of writing on film, odd video of odd things and very little of Beth Gibbons. Not sure if you've been listening to Third, but, it's definitely Portishead's return to form.

Sarah Jaffe Documentary...Sort Of

A couple of high school students (Grace Vroom & Holly Fetter) shot a short documentary type piece of Sarah Jaffe. The most important thing you will learn about Ms. Jaffe...she got mic skillz (with a "z"). (Unfair Park)

Okkervil River The Stand Ins

I've been diggin' The Stand Ins for about a few weeks now. I love how the Okkervil Boys use the traditional instruments of Bluegrass and turn rustic on it's ear. "Lost Coastlines" is a brilliant piece of music. I love the combination of vocals with lead singer Will Sheff and Shearwater's Jonathan Meiburg. While Sheff brings the indie vocals, Meiburg channels the deep croon of more recent Morrissey. Each voice gives the song the a nice dual dynamic.

But, I particularly love the kiss off quality of "Singer Songwriter." This song could be about any number of artistically snobby people bragging about their outsider art, the books they read and what the newest, best, unheard-of band they are listening to.

There are some songs that are on the cusp of being good, but, you end up suffering through them. "On Tour With Zykos" and "Calling And Not Calling My Ex" are the two that come to mind. These two songs are ok, but, they lack a little extra something that makes them genuinely good songs.

All in all, I'm really diggin' this record.

MP3: Okkervil River - Lost Coastlines

Hello From Home

So, I was a-readin' E Dub today and they had a very interesting article...about Blake Shelton.  Yep, that's right, product of the Nashville Music Machine, cookie-country country music star...that Blake Shelton.  

Now, I don't really dig on that type of music (the Nashville Machine part), but, he now lives in my hometown of Tishomingo, OK.  He's from Ada, OK (hometown of the Jeremy Shockey).  He didn't actually talk about my hometown, but, he did reference where he lives now, a place full of ranchers and cowboys.  It was just cool to see him at least reference your home town that as big as a two neighborhoods here.

His ringtone is AC/DC, which reminds me of parties back then.  If you drove up to a party blaring Back In Black or anything by Hank Jr. you could get into just about any party.  Ahhhhhh home, sometimes I miss thee.

What's The Big Deal?

I've read a couple of different articles (here and here) the last few days bashing Paste for tapping Vol. 1 by She & Him as their best for 2008. Maybe bashing is to strong of a word, but, I definitely get a sense of "wtf?!"

I got this album shortly after it came out and was blown away by how good it actually was. This isn't Scarlett Johansson trying to record. Nor is it that chick from Desperate Housewives who thinks she can sing. Zooey Dechanel proves she actually has some musical and vocal talent throughout the Vol. 1 and I just don't get what all the bashing is about. "This Is Not A Test" is one of the best songs I've heard all year; and their version of "You Really Got A Hold On Me" is stunning.

I'm assuming all the hub bub is because Dechanel is an actress first and a singer second. Ok, I get that. Sure, it's not super-indie like Vampire Weekend or Sufjan Stevens, but, you can't deny the talent and chemistry she and M. Ward have on this album.

Mash-Up Madness

So, I've found a few mash-ups that today that I'm pretty keen on. Like any good mash, it should take two completely different artists and make one pretty sweet track. I've posted some of my favorites below. I really like the Stevie Wonder vs. The Killers...good stuff. But, is it as good as M.I.A. vs Bon Jovi? I'm not sure, it's a toss up.

MP3: DJ Losterlust - Jenny's Supersticious (Stevie Wonder vs. The Killers)
MP3: Leebuzz - Fist Full of Diggity (Blackstreet vs. RATM)
MP3: DJ Schmolli - M.I.A Wanted Dead or Alive (M.I.A. vs Bon Jovi)

The Knux

Last nights performance from The Knux was rather unfortunate. They gave it their all, but, the crowd just wasn't havin' it. As I was writing my review of the show I listened to some of their tunes on Myspace...and, they weren't bad. Their songs are pretty good, and I really liked this particular track "Bang, Bang" off their debut Remind Me In 3 Days. I dig the sped up break beat and their humpty dumpty flow.

MP3: The Knux - Bang, Bang

The Broken West Daytrotter Session

The Broken West's sophomore album Now or Heaven has been on heavy rotation here for quite a while.  So, I was pleased as punch to see they were todays latest artists to be featured on ye old Daytrotter Sessions.  

However, I wasn't so excited when I heard the new version of "Gwen, Now And Then" (my favorite cut off the new album).  Why?  Because it was so different from the recorded version!  But, about half way in, I started to realize it was just like a garden and I started to dig it, man.  But, the reasoning behind the reworking was splained thusly:

When we first started rehearsing this song during the sessions for the new record, it had this really strong, driving drum part. Kind of like The Cure’s “Close to Me”. But then the song got really stripped down — we lost that beat and ended up using this drum loop for most of the track. I’m happy with the way it turned out on the record, but we thought it would be fun to go back to that big beat. So we came into the Daytrotter session knowing that we wanted to try it that way; that’s about the only thing we knew we wanted to do for sure. Then Danny came up with this really awesome, percussive guitar part on the fly, and it all sort of came together. I really like the way it turned out — I’d kind of like to play it like this live from time to time.

You can download the tracks here.  

MP3: The Broken West - Gwen, Now And Then (Daytrotter Session)