The Bash Parade Has Now Begun!

When I was 19, 20, 21...somewhere around there, I was a huge fan of the Doors. Now, my interest in them has wained a bit, but, I'm still a fan of them. I just can't listen to them as much as I use to. I listened to them everyday for about two years. So yeah, I'm a fan.

But, I don't really know what all The Doors bashing is about. In the last year or so I've heard or seen something on television bashing The Doors.

Jim was a drunken hack excuse for a poet. Maybe. But, I always thought his lyrics were pretty good. I mean just listen to "Endless Night," "Soul Kitchen" or "L.A. Woman." However, I don't really like Ray Manzerik that much anymore. I get really tired of him wanting to keep the magic of the Doors going with people like Bret Scallions singing for you. Gimme a fuckin' break, Ray.

But, here are two articles giving reasons to hate and love The Doors. (Idolator)

One Little Piggy...Travels

Yesterday I let you know that if you wanted to make a quick $10,000 and lifetime Coachella passes you should let the good people in Roger Waters camp know where his pig is.

Well, the pig still hasn't been found, but, Rollingstone has some images of the travels the piggy has taken since being set free from it's rock and roll shackles this weekend. (Rock & Roll Daily)

Taste of Black Crowes

If your town is anything like the one I live in then you are bound to have some kind of "Taste of..." festival during the year. Or, maybe you don't, who knows.

But, I thought this was kind of an odd pairing. The Black Crowes will be playing Taste of Addison, Saturday May 10, here in the Dallas area. I find it odd because they aren't a state fair kind of band. Sure, I can see the Go-Go's, Goo Goo Dolls or the mother of all fair playing bands, Poison, playing there. But, the Black Crowes? Odd. I'm definitely going to check it out.

If you know anything about Addison, it's for yuppies. But, Restaurant Row on Beltline is the shiz.

The Black Crowes - Walk Believer Walk (mp3)

Does It Offend You, Yeah?

A lot of times if I see a band that has been super-hyped by the blogs I'm usually compelled to stay away. I don't know why...I just do that.

However, I was fortunate enough to hear "We Are Rockstars" by Does It Offend You, Yeah? last week and I was smitten. Their sound is very similar to Daft Punk. So, for me, that's always a plus. I also like how the song "Battle Royale" as some old school sounds similar to "New York" by Microchip League. Good stuff.

Does It Offend You, Yeah? - We Are Rockstars (mp3)

Trent Reznor Loves His Fans

In an effort to beat scalpers hording tickets to see Nine Inch Nails this summer Trent Reznor is offering a deal to his fans.

He is offering a limited allotment of best available tickets 72 hours before the tickets go on sale to the public.

And, the tickets will have the name of the person who purchased them imprinted on the actual ticket itself, the day of the show, and must have ID that matches the name of the person who purchased them.

And as always, Trent Reznor is Nine Inch Nails. (Rock & Roll Daily)

One Little Piggy...

The organizers of Coachella are offering $10,000 and four lifetime passes to the festival for anyone who returns Roger Waters' inflatable pig.

It seems that it broke free from it's cables this weekend and is floating around somewhere. I guess that means it won't get broken out for his show in Dallas on Friday. Didn't this very thing happen on The Simpsons once?

Anyone with information can contact the organisers at lostpig@coachella.com. (Rock & Roll Daily)

Norman Music Festival

This weekend was also a festival weekend for Norman, OK. I didn't get to go, however, my friends that went said it was pretty sweet. The big names that were there were The British Sea Power and Polyphonic Spree.

The British Sea Power - Waving Flags

And Polyphonic Spree did a cover of "Live and Let Die" and "Lithium."

Polyphonic Spree - Lithium (mp3)

Lotsa Coachella

Well, there was a lot of stuff going on this weekend. Well, just Coachella really. And to a lesser extent the first ever Norman Music Festival. But, This is all about the Coachella.

Prince covers "Creep" by Radiohead.

An interview with Mikey Rocks of The Cool Kids.

An interview with Geoff Barrows of Portishead and review.

Review of the Prince's set.

The Many Hank Williams

For a few years now I've been letting my guard down and embracing the "old" or "classic" country I grew up on. I remember when I was young and loving the hell out of Alabama, Waylon, Hank, Jr., Ronnie Milsap and artists like them.

Then I got older and rebellious and listened to rock and the hip-hops and regularly made disparaging remarks about "hillbilly" country music. Now, I'm not saying I'm sitting at home watching CMT all day or that I have my dial tuned to Country stations in my truck. However, I'm more apt to listen to it now without feeling guilty for liking it.

However, I've found out that I'm routinely drawn to the more "outlaw" side of the country music seen. Be it the Red Dirt sound, Alt-Country or Bluegrass, as long as it has a hint of rebellion in it, I'm all about it. (Or, 'bout it 'bout it) My brother turned me on to Hank 3 several months ago and I finally picked up his latest CD and I have to tell you I'm blown away. The whole CD is packed with choice cuts. There isn't an ounce of filler in Strait To Hell. It's packed with the same outlaw spirit his dad had and his grand dad as well.

It's weird to hear/see three generations of a family that all have the same rebellious streak. Hank, Sr. didn't want to conform to the rules of the early country music scene. Bocefus didn't want to live in his fathers shadow, then struck out on his own rebellious way. Hank 3 seems to be rebellious because of a neglectful father and went punk before going to a punk attitude yet traditional sound.

Regardless, all three generations of Hank Williams have something that is good and worth checking out.

Fun Fact: You can get into any field party in a small country town as long as you have AC/DC's Back in Black and any Hank, Jr.

Hank Williams - I Saw The Light (mp3)

Hank Williams, Jr. - A Country Boy Can Survive (mp3)

Hank Williams III - Dick In Dixie (mp3)

Back In The Day

When I was still growing up and it was time to do something fun and cool Deep Ellum was one of the best places to go. Now, the Dallas city political machine want to ruin it and turn a historic part of town into boutique shopping and condominiums.

But, we can reflect back on the good time with this video.

Coachella From Your Couch

If you're anything like me you will be sitting at home this weekend or doing stuff around the house or around town. And you didn't get to go to Coachella. But, the good folks at AT&T Blue Room will have live webcasts of the grand time being had in Indio.

Click here to see band schedule times. I personally will tune in to see Portishead since this will be their only U.S. Show of 2008.

Submarines Tour

One of the bands I've come to really like recently are the Submarines out of L.A. They are similar musically to Beth Orton, kind of "folktronica" a little bit. Some stuff is a little more poppy.

But, they are going on tour starting 5/22 with the great, great band Headlights.

The Submarines - You, Me and Bourgeoisie (mp3)
The Submarines - Peace and Hate (mp3)

Headlights - Cherry Tulips (mp3)

5/22/08 - Schuba's* @ Chicago, IL
5/23/08 The Crofoot* @ Pontiac, MI
5/24/08 The Drake Hotel* @ Toronto, ON
5/25/08 Le Divan Orange* @ Montreal, QC
5/27/08 Iron Horse* @ Northampton, MA
5/28/08 Middle East Upstairs* @ Boston, MA
5/29/08 Union Hall* @ Brooklyn, NY
5/30/08 Mercury Lounge* @ New York, NY
5/31/08 North Star* @ Philadelphia, PA
6/1/08 Black Cat Backstage* @ Washington, DC
6/6/08 Chop Suey @ Seattle, WA
6/7/08 The Bourbon @ Vancouver, BC
6/8/09 Doug Fir @ Portland, OR
6/10/08 Cafe Du Nord @ San Francisco, CA
6/12/08 Beauty Bar @ San Diego, CA
6/13/08 The Echo @ Los Angeles, CA
*with Headlights

SSLYBY Show Review

Spin has a pretty positive review of Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin's show at the Mercury Lounge.

It's good to see there is a positive review of the show. I was told by the drummer from a local band that they kinda sucked live. When I heard that my heart sank just a little bit. But, I guess we will have to see. (Spin)

Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - Modern Mystery (mp3)

Jane's Addiction Video

Granted, the video is a little shaky from the rocking out of whomever recorded it. Oh, and you get to see Eric Avery pull a anti-Soul Coughing and walk around in circles. (Stereogum)

You Think You Know Alt-Country, Huh?

This is a pretty amusing guide to Alt-Country in one minute. But, you have to watch a commercial about a hair care product first.

Stellastarr* Actually Play Live!

Geez! I've been listening to them for about 2 years now and I still have not seen them live. However, if you want to travel down the Mexico City way they will be playing Expo Reforma on 4/30.

Enjoy one of my favorite songs of theirs..."My Coco." I love you Amanda Tannen!

And..."Sweet Troubled Soul."

New Nine Inch Nails

I really like Nine Inch Nails. I also really like the fact that Trent Reznor embraces technology as a way to get his voice heard. Granted, it's Trent Reznor and his fans will listen anyway. But, I digress.

Last night, at midnight, NIN made a brand spanking new single available for FREE download! It's not in the same instrumental vein as Ghost I-IV, this one actually has lyrics! But, it's not the industrial banger I was hoping for. It's good, but, it focuses more on the electronic side of their sound and not the rocky sound. Get it here.

And, as always, Trent Reznor is Nine Inch Nails. (Stereogum)

Coachella Is A Mixtape

If you go over to I Am Fuel, You Are Friends you can get a mixtape courtesy of that fine blog.

It's a good little mix for your trip out to Indio. Or, if you want to fall into a pit of pity because you couldn't afford the tickets, airfare and hotel expense, then this is the next best thing for you.

Juvenile vs. Portishead

Oh, you read the heading right: Juvenile vs. Portishead. The good fellas over at The Hood Internet recently posted this nice little mash-up.

It's not bad, pretty interesting.

Juvenile vs. Portishead - My Machine Gun Life (mp3)

She & Him...Again

For those of you who didn't catch the She & Him performance of "Why Do You Let Me Stay Here" last night on Conan, shame on you! No, I missed it too. But, by the magic of Youtube we can all see it.

It's nice to see that Zooey's voice isn't a product of studio magic and she can actually sing live and sound really good.

What's All The Fuss About?

What’s the deal with the Avett Brothers? I’m not hating on them, I actually think they aren’t bad. However, it seems that all the music blogs think they are the best thing since cutting the cheese. I like their Americana-style crossed with rock n roll attitude. However, I don’t think they are the best at what they do. The best my friend would be Old Crow Medicine Show. And, I’m sure I’m wrong, but, OCMS was the first band I knew about that injected folk-style music with the rock n’ roll attitude.

I don’t know, maybe I missed the boat on the OCMS ovations long ago. But, I just think it weird how blogs or whomever think the Avett Brothers are the best at it. I really dig “Paranoia in B Major” but some of the other stuff is only so-so. But, then again I’m a big OCMS fan and I’m not sure why they don’t get the press love they so richly deserve.

Avett Brothers - Paranoia in B Major (mp3)

Old Crow Medicine Show - Soul Rebel (mp3)

But, it’s all just one man’s opinion.

She & Him On Conan Tonight

For those of you that are either up at 1130 p.m. or even those who are DVR-friendly She & Him will appear as the musical guest on Late Night With Conan O'Brien tonight. I've been listening to Vol. 1 since it arrived at the house and I'm lovin' it!

She & Him - Why Do You Let Me Stay Here? (mp3)

That's Bull-jive!

Apparently Portishead isn't into the "touring" thing at all. Adrian Utley has confirmed that when the band plays Coachella this weekend it will be their only Stateside appearance this year.

BULLJIVE! I've waited 10 fn years for a new album to come out and you aren't going to tour?! That's messed up dude. And besides, now my wife can keep telling me how awesome it was to see Portishead in Austin 10 years ago. And I will have to bow my head again and say "Yeah, it would be cool to see them."

Dude, if you don't do it for anyone else, do it for me. (Spinner)

Weezer Red Album Cover

There are a few things that I know Rivers Cuomo likes. 1) Asian girls. 2) Harvard. 3) Celebacy. 4) Naming his albums after his band/color.

Last week or so the band announced that their new album would again be self titled, but, the color would be red. Now this "cover" came out for the new disk. Not sure if it's real or not, but, it is pretty funny. (Spinner)

Grand Archives Play The Cavern

Some really good news I just heard, and I may be late on this one, but Grand Archives will be playing The Cavern on June 22.

I'm glad they are coming back to the North Tejas area. They played in Denton around SXSW time and I had to miss that show. So, I'm glad they are coming back.

Grand Archives - Miniature Birds (mp3)

Robin Finck Leave GNR Returns To NIN

It seems that Mr. W. Axl Rose actually doesn't have to fire band members for them to leave the band. Buckethead left a couple of years ago. Now his latest hired Gun (get it?) to leave is Robin Finck who has gone back Trent Reznor's revised version of his Nine Inch Nails touring band.

But, apparently W.A.R. was the last to know Finck left because he is in the middle of "negotiations" to release Chinese Democracy.

Ol' Axl, when will he learn? People really just want to see you rock out with Duff, Slash, Izzy and Matt Sorum (sorry Steven). (Rock & Roll Daily)

Battle Of The Cover Songs

Over there at Spinner.com they have two streams of different versions of "I'm On Fire" you can check out. The first one is, of course, by the Boss himself. The other is by The Chromatics.

Now, for me "I'm On Fire" is a classic fn song and one of my all-time favorites. So, I was a bit apprehensive to listen to a new version. But, aside from some electronic elements it sounds pretty close to the original. But, you can check it out here.

Portishead "Silence" Remix

After a hard week(end) of working and tootling around online I came across something very interesting. What is it you might ask? Well, if you're reading this you already know what I found, idiot--an fn remix of "Silence" by Portishead.

I wasn't sure what to expect of this Excillon remix, but, I was extremely please with what I heard. Unlike most of Portishead's music, the remix is quite a banger. In the club, in the car or at home, it's off the heezy yo! Seriously, it is really good.

Portishead - Silence(Excillon Remix) (mp3)

The RZA Loves Rock And Chess

You gotta love the RZA, nah mean? He and System of a Down bassist Shavo Odadjian, Kinetic 9 (aka Beretta 9 from Killarmy) and Chicago rapper Reverend William Burke have formed the new group Achozen.

Apparently the group has been working together in the studio for about two years. Their sound is "heavy hip-hop" which touches on social and political problems. Something your average 16 year old want to hear, nah mean?

Also, if you didn't already know, the RZA, along with his cousin GZA, are big chess players. They put together the hip-hop chess tournement a few months ago. Now RZA has teamed with Chesspark.com to start-up Wuchess.com. So, get your tactics ready, think 7 moves ahead and you might beat the hip-hop grand master.

Velvet Revolver To Audition Online?

So you think just because Journey found their new frontman on Youtube that you need to kinda do the same? I believe Dr. Ian of Celebrity Fit Club fame said it best when he said "...Have some class!"

But, my chides fall on deaf ears as VR are set to launch a new website to find a new lead singer. So, I guess they are ready to move on without the help of Weiland. Poor Slash and Duff, though. They can't keep a singer in their band to save their lives. (Rock & Roll Daily)

Evil Urges Released By My Morning Jacket

The good men of My Morning Jacket have decided to release a free MP3 of the title track to their new album Evil Urges.

I thought about this the other day ago regarding the new album cover. I think this album cover is the first one not to have a bear on it. WHY!? I love the bears that are on the albums. So sad.

My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges (mp3)

The Weepies - Hideaway

It’s been a really good couple of months for new music. So, when I received the new Weepies CD, Hideaway, in my mailbox I was interested. I was familiar with the husband and wife team, Deb Talan and Steve Tannen, but, hadn’t really had a proper introduction to them. But, I must admit that I was a little apprehensive to give them a try because of their connection to Mandy Moore. And, I knew she was a fan of them who tracked them down to help her write her last album.

They have an acoustic sound that is really good. It’s not quite entirely folk, more like a pop/folk. But, anyway you look at it Hideaway is a fantastic album. Stand out tracks on the album are the debut single “Hideaway,” “Orbiting,” “Little Bird” and "Antarctica.” I can’t tell you enough how much I love, love, love “Antarctica.” The harmonies on that tune are top fn notch, it’s a really, really good song that warrants repeat listening.

The album as a whole is really top notch. I think the album is at it’s best when Deb is singing the songs. Steve has a good voice and is more than capable of carrying a song by himself. I like the whole album, but, for me Deb’s tracks are the ones that really stand out.

From what I can tell they are not currently on tour. But, I’m hoping that The Weepies will be heading into town for a show. You can get their new CD here.

The Weepies - Hideaway (mp3)

New Antipop Consortium

Antipop Consortium have a new track floating around for their new album Florescentcent Black. However, even though the new track is out now, the new album won't be out until 2009. That's a long time to wait for the APC goodness. (Brooklyn Vegan)

Antipop Consortium - Volcano (mp3)

Grand Ole Party "Look Out Young Son" Video

This has to be one of my favoritist songs that has come out this year. A) The song is super awesome. B) Chick lead singer. C) She's also the drummer. E) Just like DJ Quik it's way to fonky! (Ultra 8021)

Good Records - Record Store Day

This Saturday is Record Store Day and it celebrates independent record stores. Well, Dallas' very own Good Records will be celebrating their 8th birthday right along with record store day. Good Records regularly has great in-store appearances and Saturday will not be any different. There will be a lot of great local talent there for the all-day event.

Plus the greatness of the Black Angels will be there!

The Black Angels - You On The Run (mp3)

The Theater Fire - Tear Could Rust A Train (mp3)

Doug Burr - In The Garden (mp3)

PPT - Frustrated (mp3)

Record Hop - Maths (mp3)

The Theater Fire 11am
Mom Noon
Matthew And The Arrogant Sea 12:30pm
Doug Burr 1pm
Sarah Jaffe 1:30pm
Fishboy 2pm
Mount Righteous 2:30Pm
John Congleton 3pm
Astronautalis 3:30pm
The Baptist Generals 4pm
LIONS 5pm
Robert Gomez 6pm
Red Monroe 6:30pm
Fight Bite 7:30pm
Frogboy 8pm
The Great Tyrant 8:30pm
Jetscreamer 9pm
Record Hop 10pm
PPT 11pm
The Black Angels Midnite

New Fleet Foxes

Details of the new self-titled Fleet Foxes album are coming to light. I say that like it some kind of international intrigue involving a spy agency. It really only involves you, me and Stereogum.

They have released the first song, "White Winter Hymnal," from their eponomous LP. If you have listened to any of their Sun Giant EP then you will see "White Winter Hymnal" is not really breaking new ground. This song is just as good as anything on Sun Giant. (Stereogum)

Fleet Foxes - White Winter Hymnal (mp3)

Fleet Foxes - Oliver James (mp3)

01 Sun It Rises

02 White Winter Hymnal

03 Ragged Wood

04 Tiger Mountain Peasant Song

05 Quiet Houses

06 He Doesn't Know Why

07 Heard Them Stirring

08 Your Protector

09 Meadowlarks

10 Blue Ridge Mountains

11 Oliver James

Mulleted Rednecks Unite!

Seriously? Do we really need a "Crue Fest?" Apparently the boys who brought us "Kick Start My Heart" feel that Americans need a new traveling music festival.

Finally, the people who will be going to Rocklahoma will have something else to listen to. And, Tommy Lee can continue to spread VD to the rest of America. (Rock & Roll Daily)

Jane's Addiction To Recieve God-Like Genius Award

Jane's Heroin Addiction will be the recipients of the 2008 God-Like Genius Award from the NME. The British music publication is holding it's award ceromony in LA this year for some reason.

But, the best part of the whole deal is that all 4 original members will get back together to perform for the show. This is kind of a coup since Eric Avery has never taken part in the reunion tours or album.

You may be asking why I have a picture of Primal Scream up, right? Well, I wanted you to see what the statuette looks like. And, they are past winners of the award along with my man Ian Brown. (Yahoo)

Eric Avery - All Remote No Control (mp3)

Top 20 Acts That Peaked With The Debut Album

The A.V. Club has a list of artists who peaked with their debut album.  And, as you can see on the left, Rage's debut was among them.  Also making the list were Kanye West, The Sundays and Snoop Dogg, nee Snoop Doggy Dogg.

I would have to disagree with the Rage mention.  But, that's just me.  (A.V. Club)

Bret Michaels Tells All

I'm sure Mr. Michaels has heard all the jokes about either his wig or horrible weave all season long. But, I was surprised to read an interview with Michaels where he admits to even having hair extensions.

He also admitted that he may not be as in to Ambre Lake as we would hope he would be. It seems that the ladies aren't the only ones on the show looking to further their "careers." (MSN)

Frightened Rabbit

When a song starts off “Jesus is just a Spanish boys name” my ears will automatically perk up. Not that I’m a Jesus hater, I just like it when someone will push back that hard with their music. That is the way Scotland’s Frightened Rabbit begins their song “Head rolls Off”. After the first verse or so it jumps into a jangly “Where The Streets Have No Name” guitar and it completely works. The singer vocally has a lot in common with Adam Duritz of the Counting Crows or Gary Lightbody of Snow Patrol. But, Frightened Rabbit’s music isn’t the dour sort of thing you’d expect to hear from the Duritz Gang.

They will be playing with the French Kicks June 4 at the Granada Theater.

Frightened Rabbit - Head Rolls Off (mp3)

Frightened Rabbit - Modern Leper (mp3)

Austin City Limits Line-Up Announced

So, this is turning out to be a very disappointing morning. I knew the line-up would be released today and there was one particular name I was hoping to see on the bill that is not included. So, I guess my hopes that Pearl Jam would be headlining have been crushed.

The line-up is pretty stong, but, I don't really see the Foo Fighters as a headlining band for a festival. Don't get me wrong, I like the Foos, love Dave Grohl, but I just don't see them as a headliner.

I think it's weird that M. Ward is playing without Zooey Dechannel as She & Him. I wouldn't be surprised if she ended up there with him. (News 8)

Foo Fighters
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss (!)
Beck (!)
Manu Chao
John Fogerty
David Byrne
The Raconteurs (!)
The Mars Volta
Gnarls Barkley
Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band
N.E.R.D.
Erykah Badu
Robert Earl Keen
Patty Griffin
Tegan and Sara
Iron & Wine (!)
G. Love & Special Sauce
Neko Case (!)
Band of Horses (!)
The Swell Season
Siversun Pickups (!)
Gogol Bordello
Gillian Welch (!)
Eli Young Band
The Black Keys (!)
Against Me!
Jakob Dylan and the Gold Mountain Rebels
Okkervil River (!)
Galactic
Kevin Fowler
Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings
Hot Chip
Vampire Weekend
Slightly Stoopid
Duffy
Flyleaf
Roky Erickson
Yonder Mountain String Band (!)
Spiritualized (!)
Drive-By Truckers (!)
Ingrid Michaelson
Stars
Alejandro Escovedo
Jose Gonzales
CSS
Del the Funky Homosapien (!)
Man Man
Jamie Lidell
MGMT
What Made Milwaukee Famous (!)
Jenny Lewis (!)
M. Ward
Asleep at the Wheel
Mason Jennings
Heartless Bastards
Antibalas
The Nachito Herrera All Stars
Shooter Jennings
Xavier Rudd
Yeasayer
Octopus Project
Joe Bonamassa
The Kills
White Denim
Louis XIV
Delta Spirit
Mates of State
Nicole Atkins & the Sea Electric Touch
Black Joe Lewis & the Honey Bears (!)
Back Door Slam
Tristan Prettyman
The Strange Boys
Ryan Bingham
Scott Biram
The Freddy Jones Band
Colour Revolt
Five Times August
Langhorne Slim
Sybris
Eli “Paper Boy” Reed & the True Loves
Bavu Blakes & the Extra Plairs
AA Bondy
Christopher Denny
Mike Farris
The Lee Boys
South Austin Jug Band
American Bang
Bobby Bare, Jr.
Massacoustics
Belleville Outfit
We Go to 11
Band of Heathens City and Colour
Sunny Sweeney
Elizabeth Wills
Automata
Bonnie Bishop
Ben Sollee
Ben Cylus
The Concert Supremes
River City Christionettes
Shields of Faith
The Jones Family Singers.
Nakia & His Southern Cousins
Brotherly Luv
The Hensley Ensemble
School of Rock
Jambo
Q Brothers
Buck Howdy with BB
Uncle Rock
Big Don
mr. RAY
The Jimmies

Eddie Vedder Berkeley Show

I must first of all start with the fact that I love Heather Browne! She's a fellow Pearl Jam enthusiast and a great writer for her blog is I Am Fuel, You Are Friends. She can write things in such a great way, she's a real writer.

Now that I have that out of the way she posted a great, great review of Ed's solo show in Berkeley on 4/7 along with some choice cuts.

Maybe one day I can write as well as she can. So jealous.

Eddie Vedder - Hard Sun (mp3)

Alicia Keys: Conspiracy Nut

There are some really great conspiracy theories out there: the moon landing was faked, the mob and government killed JFK, Area 51. But, this one really takes the cake as far as music conspiracies go.

Alicia Keys believes the government "invented" gangsta rap in hopes that black men would kill each other. No, I believe Ice-T was the inventor of gansta rap wasn't he? Didn't "Colors" hit before NWA?

Anyhoo, I can get with the theory that the government created the AIDS virus, and possibly, maybe created crack cocaine and brought it to the inner cities. But, she would have me believe the government invented gangsta rap so black men would kill each other? I don't think so.

Gangsta rap comes from a man seeing his surroundings and writing about them. Or, in the case of some wankstas, living out a fake lifestyle and just telling stories they thing will sell them one million records. (MSN)

SSLYBY "Pershing"

I've had this album for a while now and I've been listening to it non-stop. Such a great album, "Glue Girls," "Think I Wanna Die," "Modern Mystery" are all some of my favorite tracks off the album. I really can't say enough about this album, it's really good.

If you like stuff like The Shins then you will totally dig this album. Oh, and did I mention they are currently on tour and will be performing in Denton? I didn't? I should be ashamed! And for all my OK peeps they will be playing the Opolis the night before Denton.

Port O'Brien will be opening up for them! (Thanks Joel!)

Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - Modern Mystery (mp3)
Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - Glue Girls (mp3)
Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - Think I Wanna Die (mp3)

4/14/08 St. Louis, MO @ The Bluebird
4/15/08 Indianapolis, IN @ Locals Only
4/16/08 Chicago, IL @ Empty Bottle
4/18/08 Toronto, Ontario, CAN @ El Mocambo
4/20/08 Allston, MA @ Great Scott
4/21/08 Brooklyn, NY @ Union Hall
4/22/08 New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge
4/23/08 Philadelphia, PA @ Johnny Brenda's .
4/24/08 Washington, DC @ Black Cat Backstage
4/26/08 Charleston, SC @ The Map Room
4/27/08 Atlanta, GA @ The EARL
4/29/08 Memphis, TN @ The Hi Tone Cafe
5/05/08 Norman, OK @ The Opolis
5/06/08 Denton, TX @ Hailey's
5/07/08 Austin, TX @ The Mohawk
5/09/08 Phoenix, AZ @ Modified
5/10/08 Tucson, AZ @ Club Congress
5/11/08 San Diego, CA @ Beauty Bar
5/13/08 Los Angeles, CA @ The Echo
5/14/08 San Francisco, CA @ Rickshaw Stop
5/16/08 Portland, OR @ Towne Lounge
5/17/08 Seattle, WA @ The Vera Project
5/18/08 Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN @ Media Club
5/20/08 Salt Lake City, UT @ Kilby Court
5/21/08 Denver, CO @ Hi-Dive
5/22/08 Omaha, NE @ The Slowdown
5/23/08 Iowa City, IA @ The Picador
5/24/08 Minneapolis, MN @ 7th Street Entry

You Want Prince You Must Pay

Now we know how much it will cost to get Prince to play your festival if you come calling at the last minute. If you have $4.8 million dollars laying around you too can have the Light Funky One to play your festival.

Or, you could just play his Hits/B-Sides CDs or other various works for free. Maybe put a poster of him up for grins. (Rock & Roll Daily)

Will You Stay Here And Rock My World?

Did anyone watch the finale of Rock of Love 2? Man, Ambre was ready to do what it took to get her man wasn't she? Damn! She pulled her "commando" card and even showed Bret the goods.

Daisy was a blubbering bag of surgical "enhancements" as always. While I was watching this human tragedy with my lovely wife, I wondered to myself why I watch such garbage. But, then I remembered it's entertaining to watch women throw themselves at a man they barely know, act like idiots on television and actually make themselves look like total white trash.

Don't get me wrong ROL2 was totally awesome while it lasted. But, why would anyone want to put themselves through that and be tagged socially like that? I just hope there will be a Rock of Love 3 if it doesn't work out with Bret and Ambre, which I'm sure it won't work out. Or, at least a series chronicling their romance.

Live Portishead...On Tape

I told you last week about Portishead doing a webcast featuring songs from their newest, yet unreleased album, Third. Now you can check it out. It's pretty good stuff, songs and images. If you've ever seen Portishead's short films it's kind of in that vein.

Procter & Gamble Solidify Streetcred

If there is anything in the world that yells street credibility it's soft clothes and clean white teeth. Procter & Gamble are set to launch a new record label with the help of Island Def Jam called Tag Records. Get it? It's like the deodorant!

Really P&G? I guess you see all these record labels losing a lot of cash so you figured you have some spending money you want to just dump out? I have a better idea, give the cash to me! (Yahoo)

RZA Tour Dates

You know how I told you the other day that RZA will be resurrecting Bobby Digital? Well, thanks to Ultra 8021 I can give you the tour dates.

I'm super stoked he's coming through Dallas, nah mean? (Ultra8021)

6/10/08 Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live
6/11/08 Austin, TX @ Emos
6/12/08 Dallas, TX @ Palladium Ballroom
6/14/08 Denver, CO @ Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom
6/15/08 Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge
6/17/08 Tucson, AZ @ Rialto Theater
6/18/08 Phoenix, AZ @ The Brickhouse Theater
6/20/08 Los Angeles, CA @ Henry Fonda Theater
6/21/08 San Francisco, CA @ 1015
6/23/08 Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theater
6/24/08 Seattle, WA @ Showbox at the Market
6/25/08 Vancouver, BC @ Richards On Richards
6/27/08 Calgary, AB @ Sled Island Music Festival
6/30/08 Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
7/1/08 Chicago, IL @ House Of Blues
7/2/08 Pontiac, MI @ Crofoot Ballroom
7/4/08 Ottawa, ON @ New Capital Music Hall
7/5/08 New York, NY @ Webster Hall
7/7/08 Philadelphia, PA @ Trocadero
7/8/08 Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club

M83

I kept seeing this name all over the place "M83" and I never really checked it out. That is until Fever The Blog turned me onto it. I mean, their set lists for their Friday night parties are awesome, a lot of music I like, so, I checked them out.

M83 is like really good and stuff. Lately I've been listening to stuff I like and is good, but, it wouldn't really rock your 19 year old nephews balls off. But, this track is definitely one of those kind of tracks, in a very Pixies loud-quiet-loud kind of way. If you're into that kind of thing.

M83 - Don't Save Us From The Flames (mp3)

Rock of Love Finale!

I'm not sure how many of you love the endless trashfest that is "Rock of Love 2" but me and the Mrs. find it endlessly entertaining. I mean, how can you not? You have chicks that are fn crazy, chicks that are stupid, strippers, stupid strippers and groupies.

The best part is that Bret would have us think that he's in it for love, but, of course he's not. But, we all know better, right? I mean, he just wants to kickstart his shitty career and make a little dough. And get laid. By nasty strippers.

But, My Old Kentucky Blog has a great little article where they go over the pros and cons of the finalists Daisy and Ambre. Very entertaining. (MOKB)

Portishead Performs Online

Tomorrow Portishead will perform 7 songs from their new album Third. You need to go to there webcast here and they will perform at 11pm GMT. So, I'm not sure what time that is CST. Maybe 6p? I'm not sure how that all works out. After the show on their website it will be rebroadcast on Current TV.

The new album comes out April 29th. You can check out an interview the hipsters at Pitchfork had with Portishead here.

Fleet Foxes "Sun Giant"

Can I be honest with you for a second? I wasn't super-duper hot about the Fleet Foxes when I first heard them. I mean, "Oliver James" is a pretty good song, but, I wasn't super excited to listen to their new EP Sun Giant.

And let me tell you I was way wrong about how good they were. First of all, "Sun Giant" is like their version of "Down In The River And Pray," such a sweet ass song and the hits just kept on coming. "Drops In The River" is good, but other than "Sun Giant," I really love "English House." It's like My Morning Jacket was mixed in with The Beach Boys and The Clientele and decided to record some country gospel.

I would totally recommend getting this album. The Foxes have a proper LP in the works that will be out soon. Until then, this album is plenty to tide you over with reverb heavy gospel goodness.

You can buy the EP here.

Fleet Foxes - Drops In The River (mp3)

The Cool Kids Bake Sale

FYI y'alls! The Cool Kids Bake Sale EP will be out 5/20. Judging from the other singles they've released it should be pretty good. It's the only hip-hop record I'm looking forward to being released.

They are also getting ready to release a mixtape, below is a track from said mixtape.

Cool Kids - Oscar (mp3)

This is one of my favorite tracks by them:

Cool Kids - Mikey Rocks (mp3)