Rockin' The 'Stache

Mr. Jim James from My Morning Jacket was recently intereviewed by the American Mustache Institute. The interview is pretty humorous and you can check it out here. (Rock & Roll Daily)

Cool Kids Black Cab Sessions

This is one of the better Black Cab Sessions I've witnessed. This installment includes the Cool Kids freestyling their way through their set. Unlike Shaquille O'Neal, the duo can actually rock the good rhymes off the top of their head. Even more amazing is that the cab actually makes a pretty good drum.

TWO DOLLARS!!

Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin debuted their newest video today via Pitchfork TV. "Modern Mystery" is one of my favorite songs off the phenomenal Pershing. So, I was pretty excited about the video.

There seems to have two big influences on this video: The newpaper delivery kid from Better Off Dead and Flight of The Navigator. When the vidie starts off all I could think was this.

The Real Cool Kids Come To Dallas

I was wondering when/if Chicago's Cool Kids would ever come to the D. Well, it looks like they will. As you can see from the pic, it looks like they will hit up the Granada on August 21 with Dallas' own The Party, Flosstradamas and Ricky Blaze.

If you aren't familiar with the Cool Kids then you need to get up to speed. They bring back what is now considered "old school" sound of the mid-to-late 80's. If you like good hip-hop, then this is the show for you.

MP3: Cool Kids - Gold and a Pager (Klever's Ride Big Remix)
MP3: Cool Kids - Mikey Rocks

Old Crow Medicine Show "Caroline"

Old Crow Medicine Show's new EP Caroline is out today. It will serve as a precursor to the their new album Tennessee Pusher. You can listen to Caroline in it's entirety below.

Say, Say My Baby!

So, I told you a lil' while back that TV on The Radio will release Dear Science, this fall and tour.  At the time I lamented the fact they wouldn't be coming to Dallas.  Well, my days of sadness are over folks!  They will be hitting Dallas on October 26!  But, that's a Tuesday...so, I'll prolly have to take off the next day for that one.

As you can see on the tour dates below, they will be playing at Lakewood Theater.  This is cool because I've never seen a show at the Lakewood.  However, I think it's kind of a strange venue for them to play.  The Palladium Ballroom would've been a better fit I think.  Maybe even the Granada.  It just seems like a weird place for them to place.  Ya know, out amongst the yuppies.

My Oklahoma peeps need to get to the Diamond Ballroom and catch this show y'all!(Ultra8201)

MP3:  TV on The Radio - Wolf Like Me

9/5/08 Portland, OR @ Musicfest NW *
9/6/08 Seattle, WA @ Showbox *
9/7/08 Vancouver, British Columbia @ Commodore Ballroom *
9/9/08 Calgary, Alberta @ Macewan Ballroom *
9/10/08 Edmonton, Alberta @ Starlite Room *
9/12/08 Boise, ID @ Knitting Factory *
9/13/08 Salt Lake City, UT @ In the Venue *
9/14/08 Red Rocks, CO @ Monolith Festival
9/19/08 San Diego, CA @ Street Scene
9/20/08 San Francisco, CA @ Treasure Island Festival
10/10/08 Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory #
10/11/08 Providence, RI @ Lupos #
10/13/08 Boston, MA @ Wilbur Theatre #
10/14/08 Brooklyn, NY @ Masonic Temple #
10/15/08 Brooklyn, NY @ Masonic Temple
10/18/08 Cincinnati, OH @ Bogarts #
10/19/08 Indianapolis, IN @ Vogue Theatre #
10/20/08 Minneapolis, MN @ First Ave #
10/21/08 Minneapolis, MN @ First Ave #
10/22/08 Chicago, IL @ Riviera #
10/24/08 New Orleans, LA @ Voodoo Festival #
10/25/08 Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle #
10/26/08 Knoxville, TN @ Bijou Theatre #
10/28/08 Dallas, TX @ Lakewood Theatre #
10/30/08 Austin, TX @ Stubbs #
10/31/08 Oklahoma City, OK @ Diamond Ballroom #
11/6/08 Los Angeles, CA @ Wiltern #
11/8/08 San Diego, CA @ 4th and B #
11/9/08 San Francisco, CA: Warfield Theatre #

* w/ Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson
# w/ the Dirtbombs

Uh Huh Her "Common Reaction"

Common Reaction hit me with the same reaction I'm sure is common for most first time listeners.  Wow!  The L.A. duo comprised of lead vocalist Camila Grey and Leisha Hailey are nothing short of astonishing.  They have a sound that reminds me of a mix of Curve and Shakespeare's Sister.  But, the similarities are mostly due to vocal similarities.  

Their songs are synth driven, buzzy electro.  Grey, handling lead vocals, immediately reminded me of Curve vocalist Toni Holiday.  The only difference being Uh Huh Her is a bit more up tempo and more light hearted.  Common Reaction hits you immediately with the the buzzworthy "Not a Love Song" and continues with it's greatness all the way until the next to last track.  The last track, "Dreamer," is not the disc's strongest track and is really just a filler track.  The stand out tracks on the disc is "Wait Another Day" and "Explode."  The former is a charming little warm up, almost ballad-y type of track, while the latter is a buzz heavy kiss off.

You can pick the disc up here, and check out dates and sample music here.

MP3:  Uh Huh Her - Not a Love Song

MP3:  Uh Huh Her - Explode

New Kings of Leon!!!

Hurry up and get the new (free!) Kings of Leon single, "Crawl" here.

I've made no secret about my dislike of the last KOL album. But, as I'm typing this to you now, I'm listening to the new single. I fn love it! It has a great buzzy bass going off, some crazy ass guitar. This sounds nothing like the KOL you may have known. It's definitely a different sonic direction, and a good one.

As an added bonus, check out home movies!!

Saturday Party

It's Saturday, it's past 5 o'clock and it's time for tunes and drinkin'.  Here are a couple of mashup bangers to turn up as loud as your little stereo can go.  

The mashup of the Wu's "C.R.E.A.M." and Justice is a nice housey mix.  The Missy vs Santogold mash is a fuckin' banger...loves it.

MP3:  Missy Elliot vs Santogold - Lose Control Lights Out

MP3: Justice vs Wu-Tang Clan - Cream Your Friends

Guilty Pleasure

Nothing wets a young man's appetite more than the thought of young lipstick lesbians making out at a party, bar or club.  No really, hear me out!  I kept hearing the hype surrounding Katy Perry's "I Kissed a Girl"and I wasn't really conviced yet.  I mean, even Lilly Allen rode the hype machine all the way to famousity and she's not that great.  (Yes, I know it's not really a word.) I mean hell...even NPR covered this song. 

The song is all out bangin' electro--after I heard the song I was completely hooked.  But, it wasn't until my brother told me he liked it I realized how good it was.  He's not really one to like this kind of stuff...for the most part.  

It's one of those peak hour dance floor fillers that has the drunk girls grinding on each other and the drunk boys trying to keep their boners down while watching them.  Just the thought of two young, hot girls is enough to make any man get excited.  Perry does an excellent job of telling the reasons why she likes kissing girl and why it's okay.  Either way, I love this song.

MP3:  Katy Perry - I Kissed a Girl

My First Observer Review

I'm very proud to annouce that my first "Last Night" review has been posted on the Dallas Observer blog DC9 at Night. I reviewed Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters. You can check it out here.

Uncle Luke

Deion Sanders eat your heart out! Luther Cambell is jumping back into the spotlight to show all sides of the infamous entertainer with his VH1 show "Luke's Parental Advisory."

A few things I find interesting about this whole thing (because I knew I'd watch it as soon as I saw the advertisements). His fiance is a lawyer. I never in my life would've figured he would hook up with someone like that. She would have to be a strong ass woman to want to be with Luke. But, they are apparently shooting it, if not parts of it, here in the Dallas area...his wife is from DeSoto.

But, you can check out the whole interview at DC9.

She & Him Start Tour Today

She & Him start their small tour today. And in what has to be one of the great music injustices of the 2008 summer, She & Him are not coming through Dallas. I was really hoping they would, but, I'm sure she's got a busy acting schedule and him is busy playing as M. Ward.

So, if the dates are anywhere around you, I would definitely go see them. I'm sure it would be a fantastic time. So, in lieu of them coming to the D-Town, listen to my favorite track off Vol. 1 "This is Not a Test" live from SXSW 2008. (I wonder if they will run into Prince at First Avenue? Maybe Morris Day?)

MP3: She & Him - This is Not a Test (Live @ SXSW 08)

*Sorry, the tour started last night in Toronto. I wonder if they met Mr. Informer himself, Snow?*

Tour dates:

7/24/08 Northhampton, MA @ Academy of Music
7/25/08 Philadelphia, PA @Trocadero
7/26/08 NYC @ Terminal 5
7/28/08 Corrboro, NC @ Cat’s Cradle
7/29/08 Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse
7/30/08 Nashville, TN @ Mercury Lounge
7/31/08 Asheville, NC @ Orange Peel
8/2/08 Newport, RI @ Newport Folk Festival
8/4/08 Columbus, OH @ Wexner Center for the Arts
8/5/08 Chicago, IL @ Park West
8/7/08 Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
8/8/08 Madison, WI @ Barrymore
8/10/08 Washington, DC @ V Fest

HMS Foolhardy

It's nice when you get an email in your inbox and it contains an mp3.  It's even better when the mp3 is actually really good.

This just so happened to be the case when I received an email containing "Taken Alive" by Austin's HMS Foolhardy.  It's a nice little track in the vein of Britpop.  Check it out.  Oh, and their bass player, Carissa Ries, could be added to my bass player crush list.  

MP3:  HMS Foolhardy - Taken Alive

WTF Happened to Dre?

So Dre is coming out with a new album blah, blah, blah. My question is...what the f happened to his noggin, yo? It looks huge! And it's just not the fact that the picture is close-up...it just looks weird. I know he's turned into a workout nut, but, whoa.

The Winner is...

So, the awards show was last night...I didn't go...to tired. But, Pete and the good folks at the Observer have posted all the winners.

You can check it out here. Man, posting at 3:45AM must be a bitch!

Dear Science,

This is prolly the best news I've heard all day! TV on The Radio will release a new disc titled Dear Science, on Septemember 23. They will be touring in the Fall, but, no where near Dallas. Unless you consider Salt Lake City (which is the closest they are coming for now) close. (Pitchfork)

Oh What a Night

The Dallas Observer Music Awards showcase this past Saturday was a blast. I pretty much camped out at the Sugar Shack (hey $1 beers are a big draw for me, okay?). But, I got to see some amazing bands.

I was beyond impressed with the Backsliders. Kim Pendleton-Bonner has an amazing raspy, sassy voice that will knock the socks off anybody. Sydney Confirm was also high on my list. I wasn’t aware of their music but was very impressed with their take on live dance music. The Shack really got shakin’ once these boys got their beats revved up.

What was up with Dove Hunter? They were supposed to be on after Sydney and before PPT. But, that didn’t happen. At that point I started to get a lil bit tired and had to vacate the venue. But, the few songs I heard by the former PPT crew were outstanding. I just wish I could’ve stayed longer and enjoyed all the bands on the bill.

Wayne

Wayne Coyne recently spoke with Spinner about a few songs they have worked on for their follow up to At War With The Mystics. Wayne was typcially Wayne and said true/funny shit like this regarding one of the new tracks:

"It's called 'Smoking Crystal Meth Obliterates the Ability to Enjoy Nature,'" Coyne told Spinner about one of the new numbers. "I live in probably one of the worst neighborhoods in Oklahoma City. I've lived here my whole life, but you know, you get exposed to the worst elements and all that s---. What canyou do?"

Then he had this to say about music changing the world and the tenatively titled "I Don't Understand Karma":

"Where he (John Lennon) would sing about 'Instant Karma' -- I'm 47. People forget he died when he was 40 and a lot of his overly optimistic, 'We are gonna fucking change the world' sort of stuff came in his 30s," Coyne said. "I think they believed some of what they were singing about would change the world, but after a while you realize music doesn't change the world. Music is just music, and changing the world is a big, tall, slow, boring thing, and frankly I don't know the world needs changing. The world is great. It's people that suck."

James is Here!

Well, kinda, in the sense that they are touring the U.S. But, not in the sense they will actually come anywhere near you or me. I wish they would come to Dallas, Austin or OKC. But, i doubt that will happen anytime soon.

MP3: James - Laid

Tour dates:
9/15/08 Boston, MA @ Paradise
9/16/08 Philadelphia, PA @ Trocadero
9/18/08 Washington, DC @ 9.30 Club
9/19/08 New York, NY @ Radio City Music Hall
9/20/08 Asbury Park, NJ @ Stone Pony
9/22/08 Montreal, QB @ Club Soda
9/23/08 Toronto, ON @ Phoenix
9/25/08 Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre
9/26/08 Milwaukee, WI @ Turner
9/27/08 Minneapolis, MN @ Fine Line
9/29/08 Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre
10/1/08 San Francisco, CA @ The Regency
10/2/08 Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey
10/3/08 San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
10/5/08 Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues

Ghostland Observatory Invade HOB

Uh huh, that's right! One of the best live shows you will ever see is coming back to Dallas. Austin's very own Ghostland Observatory will play the House of Snooze October 11. I expect all you hipsters and SMU girls to be out in full force!

Get your tickets to Partyville here.

MP3: Ghostland Observatory - Dancin' on My Grave (Let There Be Vinyl Remix)

DOMA Showcase Saturday

So, Saturday I'm going to brave the Texas heat and venture down to Lower Greenville and check out the Dallas Observer Music Awards showcase. I'm pumped about seeing 100 Damned Guns again and finally checking out Dove Hunter. I'm also pretty pumped to check out The BAcksliders, I've been pretty impressed with the tunes I've heard from them. I'm hoping to check out Bridges and Blinking Lights again. But, you never know what could happen.

Any other bands I should be checking out?

*UPDATE* The Observer blog, DC9 at Night, just posted that 100 Damned Guns will not be playing the showcase tomorrow at the Sugar Shack do to a personal matter. That sucks. Now on to another show.

Billiard Bar
1920 Greenville Ave
7:00 – Holy Diver
8:00 – Carmen Rodgers
9:00 – Yells at Eels
10:00 – Spector 45
11:00 – Akkolyte
12:00 – Whiskey Folk Ramblers

The Cavern
1914 Greenville Ave
7:00 – The Frenz
8:00 – Hawatha Hurd
9:00 – Mitra
10:00 – Sean Kirkpatrick
11:00 – Florene
12:00 – Bridges & Blinking Lights

Gezellig
2010 Greenville Ave
7:00 – The Naptime Shake
8:00 – Snarky Puppy
9:00 – Inner City All-Stars
10:00 – Stumptone
11:00 – RTB2
12:00 – Big J & Schwa Cool Out
1:00 – Blixaboy

Stout
1924 Greenville Ave
7:00 – Vortexas
8:00 – Glen Reynolds
9:00 – Shibboleth
10:00 – The Slack
11:00 – Matthew & The Arrogant Sea
12:00 – Salim Nourallah & The Noise

Sugar Shack
1909 Greenville Ave
7:00 – 100 Damned Guns
8:00 – The BAcksliders
9:00 – Sydney Confirm
10:00 – Dove Hunter
11:00 – PPT
12:00 – Wild in The Streets

New Conor Oberst

Conor Oberst has shed his Bright Eyes moniker and decided to release a solo disc. It's a nice little upbeat tune from the limited knowledge I have of Mr. Oberst. But, I'm sure his fans will be rejoicing at first listen of his new single "Danny Callahan."

Now, that I've heard a few tunes by him, I think I may actually pic up a disc or two of his. Thanks to the good people at Merge for the heads up.

MP3: Conor Oberst - Danny Callahan

Conor Oberst tour dates:

7/17/08 Sao Paulo, Brazil @ Studio SP
7/18/08 Santiago, Chile @ Cine Arte Normandie
7/19/08 Buenos Aires, Argentina @ Trastienda
7/20/08 Porto Alegre, Brazil @ Centrol Cultural Santander
7/25/08 Billings, MT @ Bones Brewing
7/27/08 Calgary, AB @ Calgary Folk Music Festival
7/29/08 Vancouver, BC @ Richards’s on Richards Cabaret
7/30/08 Seattle, WA @ Neumo’s
7/31/08 Bend, OR @ Midtown Ballroom
8/1/08 San Francisco, CA @ Bottom of The Hill
8/3/08 Santa Cruz, CA @ Rio Theatre
8/5/08 West Hollywood, CA @ Troubadour
8/8/08 Nashville, TN @ Mercury Lounge
8/9/08 Carrboro, NC @ Cat’s Cradle
8/10/08 Norfolk, VA @ The NorVa
8/11/08 Philadelphia, PA @ Trocadero Theatre
8/12/08 New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom
8/17/08 Saratoga, NY @ Saratoga Music Festival
9/20/08 Omaha, NE @ Anchor Inn
9/21/08 Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
9/22/08 Knoxville, TN @ Bijou Theatre
9/23/08 Fayetteville, AR @ George’s Majestic Lounge
9/24/08 Oxford, MS @ The Lyric
9/25/08 Tulsa, OK @ Cain’s Ballroom
9/27/08 Austin, TX @ ACL Festival
10/2/08 Melbourne, Australia @ The Palace
10/3/08 Brisbane, Australia @ Tivoli
10/4/08 Sydney, Australia @ Enmore
10/5/08 Sydney, Australia @ Great Escape
10/21/08 Los Angeles, CA @ Music Box @ Fonda
10/22/08 Los Angeles, CA @ Music Box @ Fonda
10/24/08 San Francisco, CA @ Warfield Theatre
11/8/08 New York, NY @ Terminal 5
11/9/08 New York, NY @ Terminal 5

Headlights on NPR

Headlights stopped by The Bryant Park Project and played "School Boys" off their phenomenal release Some Racing, Some Stopping. I was really blown away when I saw them at The Cavern a few months ago. And I'm still blown away.

You can catch the "School Boys" performance here.

More Rock of Love?

That's right, bitches! Another season of Rock of Love will be upon us! It seems like Mr. Wig and his "girlfriend, " Ambre Lake, from the last season have broken up. I know, sad right? Totally unexpected!

But, this season all the strippers, old 80's "metal" chicks, single mom (Did I already mention strippers?) will all be out to win Bret's heart. This time the "ladies" of RoL will be on a bus following Bret around the country on a month long tour. I wonder if they will have a contest to see who doesn't throw up while cleaning out the buses septic tank?

Anyhoo, I'm sure Big John will be tagging along as always trying to pick up the sloppy seconds. Hey-O! (Rock & Roll Daily)

I Don't Want To Get Off on a Rant Here...

How does Austin get two music festivals a year and the DFW metroplex gets nothing? Austin has the Fun Fun Fun Festival and the totally righteous Austin City Limits Festival.

Dallas, Denton and Ft. Worth all have good local bands. Can't a promoter somewhere find a way to encompass the best band of these three cities and get some major acts to throw a party? Last year Ft. Worth had the Wall of Sound Festival that was mad decent, but poorly attended. Can't they bring that festival closer to Dallas and Denton? I mean, if fucking Pryor, Oklahoma can get a festival why can the Metroplex? I mean surely we could have something to get the dude in the abover picture excited, right?

Please, someone take up this cause. I would, but, I don't be havin' no clout in the biz.

"Wild International"

Zach de la Rocha has come out swingin' with the first single from his side project One Day as a Lion. The group posted their first single "Wild International" on their Myspace page.

It definitely has a similar sound to Rage, with razor sharp political and social rhymes. He doesn't miss a beat. I can't wait until their EP is release. Check it out here.

Nas in Dallas

Well, well, well! It looks like Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones is going to be coming to the House of Snooze in Dallas. That's right, Nas in Dallas. I would go to this show just hoping he brings Kelis on tour with him. She fine, y'all!

Anyhoo, he's be at the HOB on 8/26 with Talib Kweli, Jay Electronica and DJ Green Lantern.

MP3: Nas - I Gave You Power

New Sorta

The fellas in Sorta have been keeping busy since the tragic death of band member Carter Albrecht. The Dallas band just added two new tunes to their Myspace page for your and my enjoyment.

"Grown Man" is the soft, bar tinged alt-country ballad-y type of song. I like "Bjorn Yesterday" as much for the title as the music itself. The keyboard work is phenomenal on this one. It's a nice accent without being to distracting. But, I love the sound of a good organ in the rock and/or roll music.

And, by the looks of their schedule they will be playing a CD release party in Austin on September 30.

"Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?" Video

So, I got the message from Merge that the She & Him video for "Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?" was released. However, I couldn't find it at the link they sent, then I couldn't find it on Youtube. However, I now have it.

"Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?" is one of the better songs on one of the best albums of the year. (Though, I'm hoping they release "This is Not A Test" for video consumption.) If you have not heard this song, watch the video. If you have not heard the album, run, don't walk (!) out and buy it. Yes, it's that good! I believe my brother put it best when he said abuot Vol. 1 'It appeals to my country and pop sensibilities.' And, yes it does. It's not country-pop like you will hear on any country station. It's just got a lil' bit of twang to it. And, it doesn't hurt that Zooey Deschannel has a fn great voice! (Take that studio magic!)

Anyhoo, check out the greatness of "Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?"

• MTV
• Music Videos
• MTV Shows
• Entertainment News

Airline

I was lucky enough to read about local band Airline on one of the local blogs. Since then, I’ve been listening to a few of their tracks non-stop. They have that nice blend of pop and rock that is easy to swallow. I’m particularly smitten with the track “About to Bend,” it has a sweet slide guitar licks that hooked me. What can I say? I’m a sucker for a good slide guitar. Plus, I dig just about any band that has a keyboard featured as part of the band. The good thing about this tune, the keys don’t overpower the song, like say…just about any Coldplay tune.

“Denmark” is another good one. I like the breakdown in the middle of the song, it reminds me of a Sixties pop tune. Or maybe it reminds me of the beginning of Queen's “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Either way, it’s still a good track.

They are playing at various places in and around town. So, you should check them out if you can. You can also check out their Myspace page to get a feel for they have to offer...which is all goodness!

You can buy their debut, Farewell Republica, here.

MP3: Airline - Denmark

MP3: Airline - About to Bend

7/24/08 Austin, TX @ Momo’s
7/25/08 Dallas, TX @ The Cavern
7/26/08 Dallas, TX (Private Party)
8/7/08 Ft. Worth, TX @ 8.0
8/11/08 Dallas, TX @ The Loft
8/21/08 Ft. Worth, TX @ Lola’s
8/27/08 Denton, TX @ Hailey’s

I'ma Put Cha in The Mud-Honey

I'm going to assume that the Mudhoney show has just been added. Because, I dont' remember seeing this one on the Granada's line-up a few days ago. But, it could just be I wasn't paying close enough attention. Because, it's fuckin' Mudhoney!

Anyhoo, the Seattle titans will be playing the on September 5, that's a Friday! You can get your tickets here.

Coincidentally, here is an article about the prepartation some of the members have been doing for the Sub Pop 20th anniversary show as they reunite Green River. (Yahoo)

MP3: Mudhoney - Touch Me I'm Sick
MP3: Mudhoney - You Stupid Asshole

Del The Funky Homosapien at The Granada

Ice Cube's spaced out cousin, Del The Funky Homosapien, will be droppin' his laid back flow on y'alls September 25 at the Granada. Ahhhh, I remember the good ol' days listenin' to Tribe Called Quest, good Ice Cube and topping it off with a little "Mr. Dobalina, Mr. Bob Dobalina..." Those were they days, am I right my friends?

Anywho, his old Heiroglyphics crew is going to be at the Granada next Wednesday. Get tickets for Del here, Heiroglyphics here.

MP3: Del The Funky Homosapien - Bubble Pop

BRMC at Dada

In what has to be, at least in my book, quite a coup, Club Dada will play host to an acoustic set by none other than the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. The goodness goes down Friday, August 1. That place will be freakin' packed! They will definitely have to open the back doors on that night. (DC9)

MP3: Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Suspicion Holds You Tight

100 Damned Guns at The Lakewood

That's right! 100 Damned Guns will play the Lakewood Theater this Friday to support the new movie "Blood on The Highway." (Not to be confused with Dylan's Blood on The Tracks or Blonde on Blonde) Watch the trailer here.

The Ft. Worth boys have music featured in the film. Sure, it's a low budget indie film but so was "Love And A .45" and look what that did for the Rev and Renee Zellweger. If you haven't seen 100 Damned Guns play then you are really missing out. One of the true unheralded local bands in quite some time.

MP3: 100 Damned Guns - Wish I Could Die

Early Kings of Leon Review

So, Rollingstone has an early review of the new Kings of Leon record, Only By The Night.  And by the sounds of things it should be good.  But, unlike say a Beck review, I think this one might actually be legitimate in it's love of the album.  There's apparently a track called "Seventeen" that the Kings have had since the Youth and Young Manhood days.  So, that to me is extremely exciting. 

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I hope they are past their U2 phase.  'Cause I didn't really dig Because of The Times that much.  Believe me, it had some good cuts on it, but, it also had a whole lot of filler for me.  But, maybe I should pull it out and listen to it again.  

Oh, and check out a track called "Manhattan" off the new album.  (Rock & Roll Daily)

MP3:  Kings of Leon - Spiral Staircase (Live in Sydney)

It's The Roc Bitches!

I read this yesterday on Illseed and forgot to say something about it. If this story is true, it's the best thing of all time to ever happen at Wimbledon. Do yourself a favor and read the whole story.

“Illseed, I’m currently on vacation in London right now and got the chance to go to Wimbledon. Out of the corner of my eye I caught Jay-Z cheering in the stands. During a break, all of the older Brit’s and other Europeans there taking pictures with him and getting autographs. I was heated cuz I’m an actual fan and I was tryna get into his section so I could play him my ringtone (Hov’s verse on “Mr. Carter”), so he could gimme free tickets to his sold out concert, or at least smoke me out - haha. Unfortunately, security wouldn’t let me into his area and the other tennis match was about to start. So without thinking, while the match was going on, I stand up and scream “It’s the ROC, bitch!!!” Security immediately ran over to me and all of the rich Europeans looked at me like I had a bomb on me. Hov started cracking up and threw up the Roc while security was running towards me. Later on I saw that he was leaving early so I ran down to stairs to see if I could shake his hand or take a picture. He was already swarmed by people and he and his people were on the move. I jumped in front of him and shook his hand and I couldn’t think of anything to say. All my dumbass could think of, in my Dodger fitted, was “When you gonna go at The Game” and he just laughed and said “We ain’t even fuckin with him…we gonna let him commit suicide.” Definitely one of the highlights of my first trip outside of Cali.”

MP3: Jay-Z vs. Grizzly Bear - Roc Knife

(BTW-this is prolly the best mash-up of all-times)

New American Standard

NPRs "Here & Now" recently did a segment on “New Standards” in popular music. You know, like Big Band or Jazz standards? C’mon kids! Anyway, the focused on what they believe to be a new standard for string bands, the Old Crow Medicine Show’s instant classic “Wagon Wheel.” I remember when my brother saw OCMS play it on Conan O’Brien four or five years ago and he sent me like 5 text messages at 1230AM. Then won a visit to his place I finally heard them and wasn’t completely hooked until I heard “Wagon Wheel” close out their first Nettwerk disc O.C.M.S. From there I was completely hooked on this bluegrass/country/blues string band from Ithaca, NY.

If you listen to their “Here & Now” segment you will know why I love this song so much. Main Crow Ketch Secor describes how the song went from just a chorus on a Bob Dylan bootleg to a new American classic. I could’ve shown you the main video, which you can watch here; but, in its stead I will show you the short clip from the Granada show I saw them at a few years ago. Unless you just really don’t like music you will see why this song is so great.

You can hear the NPR segment here.

MP3: Bob Dylan - Rock Me Mama

MP3: Old Crow Medicine Show - Wagon Wheel

And just for shit's and giggles:

MP3: Against Me! - Wagon Wheel from PROTECT: A Benefit for the National Association to Protect Children

Fleet Foxes "Winter White Hymnal" Video

I love these guys, by far one of my favorite new bands. Not only is their music a throwback to by-gone days of AM radio friendlyness that even your parents could dig, they bring out the claymation!

(Ultra8201 via PitchforkTV)

Beck "Modern Guilt"

The good folks over at Rollingstone have posted a video review of Beck's Modern Guilt. They give it good marks for using an older style but not ripping it off. But, when does RS not give superstars a good review?

You can check it out here. (Rock & Roll Daily)

RZA To Make Kung-Fu Movie

Anyone with even a passing knowledge of RZA and the Wu-Tang Clan know they are all about the martial arts, kung-fu movies. So, it should come as no surprise that RZA is writing and directing a kung-fu flick. Eli Roth is going to help him pen the script and the greatness of Quentin Tarantino has been mentoring RZA about film making.

But, take it from Eli himself:

Yes, it is true. RZA's script is amazing. He has been studying directing with Tarantino for years. and he's really ready to get behind the camera. His impact on rap music and hip hop culture cannot be measured, and he's ready to add his own unique style and vision to the world of film. This movie will have everything martial arts fans could want, combined with RZA's superb musical talent. This project has been his dream for years, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it. And fans should know that yes, there will be blood... This ain't no PG-13.

(I Watch Stuff)

Neko Case at The Granada

New Pornographer Neko Case will be playing the Granada Theater in Dallas on September 27.  I'm really pumped about this one, I love her voice...so angelic, so lovely.

MP3:  Neko Case - Hold On Hold On

MP3:  Neko Case - Star Witness

Dove Hunter In-Store

Dallas Observer Music Award nominees Dove Hunter will be playing an in-store at Good Records on Thursday, July 12 at 4PM. Unfortunately I'll be at work, so, that kinda sucks. But, go check 'em out.

*UPDATE* I'm a fucking idiot sumtimez and the show is actually Saturday, July 12. I taint weed and I taint wite neiver.

MP3: Dove Hunter - Cyclone Stare

New Hank 3

Hank Williams III will be releasing his upcoming album Damn Right and Rebel Proud on October 21.  The lead single will be "Long Hauls and Close Calls" for which a video has been shot.  If the new disc is anything as good as Straight To Hell then this one should be a good 'ne.

Below is a live video of "The Grand Ole Opry (Ain't So Grand Anymore)."  Thanks to Lane for the tip.

MP3:  Hank 3 - Dick in Dixie

Damn Right and Rebel Proud track listing:

1. The Grand Ole Opry (Ain't So Grand Anymore)

2. Wild & Free

3. Me & My Friends

4. 6 Pack of Beer

5. I Wish I Knew

6. If You Can't Help Your Own

7. Candidate For Suicide

8. H8 Line

9. Long Hauls and Close Calls

10. Stoned & Alone

11. P.F.F.

Fleet Foxes at The Loft

I got to see the wonderful Fleet Foxes this past Thursday at The Loft.  It was such a wonderful show!  I was really surprised how many people were there.  I'm not sure that it was sold out, but, it was pretty well packed.  It was great to see the reaction the band had when the crowd cheered and whistled when they would play certain songs.  They seemed to be genuinely grateful to the reaction.  They also told some pretty good stories in between songs.  One story even referenced the Degoba System.  The other was the story of bass players dad telling him via text message he was going to get a sex change.  But, it was just a fatherly ploy to get his son to call him.  Way to go pop!

Unlike the curse of the old Gypsy Tea Room, there was a very reverential vibe going on, there wasn't much talking from the crowd while the band played or in between songs.  So, that was nice considering the high hipster count that night.

The Foxes played pretty much everything they've released.  Which isn't a lot since they only have an EP and LP to their credit.  The vocals were flawless, they translated live almost as well as they do recorded.

MP3:  Fleet Foxes - Winter White Hymnal

MP3:  Fleet Foxes - Drops in The River

MP3:  Fleet Foxes - Quiet Houses

It's Comin' Back Around Again!

Zach de la Rocha is finally releasing a "solo" album.  He's teamed up with ex-Mars Volta drummer Jon Theodore.  He will release the five song EP One Day as a Lion.  I'm sure (hope) it's going to be the socially and politically charged music he's known for.  

I just wish he would've been making music for the last 8 years under Dubya's watch.  You know, politically leftist music during a time of extreme right leadership.  I'm no expert, but, that prolly would've been the best time to do that kind of thing.  (Ultra8201)

Anyhoo, the album comes out July 22.  

One Day as a Lion track listing:

1. Wild International

2. Ocean View

3. Last Letter

4. If You Fear Dying

5. One Day as a Lion

New Old Crow Medicine Show

My long wait is finally over!  Old Crow Medicine Show have a new CD, Tennessee Pusher, coming out on September 23.  But, like they did before Big Iron World came out, they will also release a 3 song EP featuring fan favorite "Caroline."  The EP also features a exclusive track "Back To New Orleans," which will be available digitally on July 29. 

MP3:  Old Crow Medicine Show - Caroline

By the way, where the f is Critter?  I can't tell if that's Gil on the right or not.  I guess ol' Crit flaked out again.  I don't know.

Tennessee Pusher tracklisting:

1.  Alabama High-Test

2. Highway Halo

3. The Greatest Hustler of All

4. Methamphetamine

5. Next Go 'Round

6. Humdinger

7. Motel in Memphis

8. Evening Sun

9. Mary's Kitchen

10. Crazy Eyes

11. Tennessee Pusher

12. Always Lift Him Up

13. Caroline

EdVed Tours Again

Eddie Vedder doesn't seem to be finished touring. He toured solo earlier in the spring, now with Pearl Jam and he's going it alone again. He's announced a handful, err maybe two hands full, worth of dates across this great land. And once agian Liam Finn is opening up for him on tour. (pearljam.com)

MP3: Eddie Vedder - Hard Sun

8/1/08 Boston, MA @ Opera House
8/2/08 Boston, Ma @ Opera House
8/4/08 NYC @ United Palace Theatre
8/5/08 NYC @ United Palace Theatre
8/7/08 Newark, NJ @ NJ Performing Arts Center
8/9/08 Montreal @ Salle Wilfrid Place
8/10/08 Montreal @ Salle Wilfrid Place
8/12/08 Toronto @ Massey Hall
8/13/08 Toronto @ Massey Hall
8/16/08 Washington, DC @ Warner Theatre
8/17/08 Washington, DC @ Warner Theatre
8/19/08 Milwaukee, WI @ Riverside Theatre
8/21/08 Chicago, IL @ Auditorium Theatre
8/22/08 Chicago, IL @ Auditorium Theatre

That's Stupid!

Download this NOW!  If you aren't hip to Chicago's The Cool Kids, then you are missin' out, yo!  (Do the kids still say "yo?")  Anyhoo, if you've heard "Black Mags," "Mikey Rocks" or my personal favorite Klever Remix of "Gold Pager" then you are really missin' out.  It's got a killer beat and some of the best rhymes this side of the Trinity River.

You can get the FREE download here.

MP3:  The Cool Kids - Gold And A Pager (Klever's Big Ride Remix)

DOMA Info

So, I told you I would get you some information about venues, and I did.  If you click on the picture you can see a larger version of when/where the shin dig kicks off.  I'm going to check out 100 Damned Guns and Bridges and Blinking Lights.  They boff good, y'all!

Oh, and don't forget to vote!  You have to give a little info, but, nothing to bad.  Oh, and for a limited time, June 26-July 10, you can get two tickets for the showcase.  And they also say something about a shirt or compilation CD.  But, they may not be related items.  (DC9)

MP3:  Whiskey Folk Ramblers - Moanin' Rag

Busy, Busy

I've had a busy last few days.  I lost my wedding band, so, that really sucks.  My wife had three of my father's diamonds put in it for our first wedding anniversary at the beginning of the month.  Then, I lost it this weekend, in a river, at my family reunion.  So, I've been pretty depressed.  But, the music keeps me sane.  That and a my phenomenal wife!

That's why it's good to hear the Headlights newest installment from Daytrotter.  They also recorded "On April 2," "Market Girl" and "Some Racing, Some Stopping."  They all good.

MP3:  Headlights - Cherry Tulips (Daytrotter Session)