JAY THE INTERN

Steve Earle: Townes

2009-03-06T12:21:00.004-05:00

Steve Earle is releasing an album of Townes Van Zandt covers. Townes, 15 songs Earle "cherry picked [from] the career of one of the best songwriters that ever lived," will be released on May 12th by everyone's favorite Americana label, New West Records.

Earle and Van Zandt were introduced in 1972, when the latter heckled the young singer-songwriter at one of his shows. That meeting blossomed into a friendship which led Earle to name his son, Justin Townes Earle, after the the hard-living songwriter.

Earle is no stranger to covers, and Van Zandt has certainly been covered before.

Captain Obvious has a cut of Earle honoring Nirvana's "Breed", as well as a cover of Van Zandt's "I'll Be Here in the Morning" by Bill Baird.

Steve Earle--"Breed" (Nirvana Cover)

Bill Baird--"I'll Be Here in the Morning" (Townes Van Zandt Cover)

Also, you can stream Earle's cover of "Lungs" at P4K. Tom Morello contributes guitar to the track. From the sounds of the first one, Earle is certainly going to do his old buddy justice.

Banshee Beatdown

2009-03-06T11:38:00.004-05:00

I'm super excited right now. For one, I just bought a plane ticket to Austin for SXSW. Doesn't seem like that big of a deal to most of y'all, but I've never been before, so there.

But the main reason I'm amped is that all of my buds are coming into Chapel Hill this weekend for the Duke game. We're talking from NYC, London, New Zealand, Charleston(?). Should be quite the debauchery if all goes as planned. Hopefully the outcome will be similar to that above.

So, a song that has been known to make me all tingly on my insides is certainly in order for today. That cut is "Banshee Beat", from Animal Collective's art folk masterpiece, Feels.

Every time I hear this song, the hair stands up on my arm. I've found that a lot of people feel the same way, and it's obviously not hard to see why.

Here's the original version from Pretty Goes with Pretty.

"Banshee Beat" from Feels via Pretty Goes with Pretty

Here's the chilled out version from the band's set at Grand Ballroom.

"Banshee Beat" live from Grand Ballroom via Free Music via NYC Taper

Got me again.

Maybe I'm the Worst

2009-02-06T11:50:00.003-05:00

Well, I see that my promises for a blogged down '09 don't hold water.

Regardless, here's a bone for all you voracious readers .

Pitchfork just gave Brooklyn-based The Pains of Being Pure at Heart Best New Music today. Funny, I downloaded that record yesterday on Emusic and really liked it. (I really have such amazing taste. It's not even slightly laughable.) It's really not a surprise considering POBPAH has been getting more press than the recession lately.

In all seriousness, you should definitely check this album. If you like really catchy pop songs bathed in shoegazy guitars, you'll love this. Better yet, if you like really catchy pop songs, you'll love this.

Here is a nifty lo-fi job of their song, "Everything with You."

Southern Shelter

2009-01-07T14:48:00.003-05:00

Just a heads up that you should check out Southern Shelter. Sloan features some incredible live recordings, most recently a Phosphorescent performance and the Atlas Sound NYE show from the Drunken Unicorn.

Don't just stand there, go!

Happy New Year

2009-01-06T14:31:00.005-05:00

Greetings, y'all. I hope that everyone's New Year has gotten off on the good foot. Mine certainly has. Expect a lot more blogging from me this year. No school + free time=more blogging. In other words, don't be afraid to check Jay the Intern on a daily basis for minty musical goodness.

While we're on the subject, take a listen to Dent May. Dent & his Magnificent Ukulele hails from Taylor, Mississippi. With vocal stylings in the vain of Costello, Holly and Richman, and dreamy beachfront melodies--not to mention two awesome labels behind him; Paw Tracks (US) and Rough Trade (UK)--Dent May is poised to have a big 2009. Look for his debut, the Good Feeling Music of Dent May & His Magnificent Ukulele, on February 2. According to the Dent's Myspace Blog, he recorded his debut with producer Rusty Santos (Sung Tongs, etc) "in [his] doublewide trailer in July." From what we're hearing, the album should be as hot as those steamy confines certainly were.

Dent May & his Magnificent Ukulele---Multiple Tracks

Quick Update: CORNDAWG

2008-10-29T11:49:00.003-04:00

Please for the love of all that is holy go here and listen to Corndawg aka Johnny Fritz. Fritz is the man and draws influences from Waylon Jennings, Tom T. Hall, Kris Kristoffersen, etc. His songs are beyond bright and feature head-scratching lyrics that leave one to ask, "Why didn't I think of that?" It's the way pop country should sound.

Big props to American Songwriter for featuring his song, "Family Tree" on their new Craft of Music Compilation.

I might be gushing, but artists like Corndawg that remind you why you love music.

Fritz also recorded songs for the new AS Sessions blog. Check that out as well.

Ich bin krank

2008-09-23T15:38:00.006-04:00

Today I am sick. Regardless, I have heard some great things lately that I wanted to turn you onto.

First is 13 Ghosts, a band from Birmingham, Alabama with a penchant for lyrically dark songs that are thrust into your ears on the sturdy wings of cathartic instrumentation. RIYL: Blitzen Trapper, Neil Young, Bright Eyes, Band of Horses.
13 Ghosts--Various Songs--Myspace

"Whip Poor Will"

----

Next is Eden Express, a Memphis-based Tropicalia/Folk trio which just released their debut, que Amors Que, on Holy Mountain. This warm, slinky fare is perfect for a poolside tequila or an early morning beach romp. Or perhaps a sunrise stroll down a cobblestone street, your brain swimming backstroke while the salty breeze whispers against your face. Regardless, listen to these tracks and you'll feel better than you did before.

Eden Express--Various Songs--Myspace

New Dead Confederate Demo, "Mob Scene"

2008-09-18T08:57:00.017-04:00

God, I feel like this is a Dead Confederate blog. It's a good thing they have their own blog now. Here's a recent post featuring a new demo that bassist Brantley Senn wrote, titled "Mob Scene.

From deadconfederate.typepad.com:

I wrote and recorded a new tune today at home. It's kind of ridiculous. I'm really not sure yet if it's good or rubbish. But it WAS a lot of fun making. I'm releasing my inner Beck.

Anyway, here it is, in all it's glory. Free. Exclusive. Mp3.

Download - Mob Scene.mp3 (192 kbs)

Mob Scene (Lyrics)
Hail hail, God's dead, I'm wet
Soaked in a Roman bath of gold and green
Back back, hard stares, envy
Gotta get clean I got my maker to meet
Down down, hard ground, mob scene
The Proles in the gallery are letting off steam
Back back, handshakes, crooked smiles
Had enough of hangin' round just so you can take what's mine

Did I mention that it's ridiculously short?
-B

Sounds like Brantley has been listening to some TVOTR. Still an interesting track with some killer lyrics.

Dead Confederate myspace

Title Tickler?!?!?!?

2008-09-18T08:57:00.016-04:00

My brother, Mac, has a new blog, TitleTickler.com, dedicated to the Georgia Bulldogs' march to the BCS Championship. Check it out. His coffee-fueled postings read like meth-ridden, avant-garde literature. The site is not only piss-your-pants hilarious for that reason, but also because he posts numerous pictures of mustaches--most of which are of his--being grown during this football season. The Dawgs are undefeated so far. My Tarheels are as well, perhaps due to the fact that I have a mustache of my own.

Here's hopin' that the Heels and the Dawgs can keep their streaks alive this weekend!

And here's a Band of Horses cover of "The End's Not Near" by The New Year. TNY has a self titled new record out. Pick it up, here.

"The End's Not Near"(by The New Year)--Band of Horses

Ben Bridwell is a self-proclaimed Bulldog fan. Makes brother Mac and I even bigger fans of the band.
---

Oh, almost forgot. you might recognize Parker Gispert, front man of the Whigs, in that picture with Mac. Well I got this little update from him last night.

Yoohoo FOLKS,

The Whigs will bring in the new year by joining forces with Band of Horses December 30th and 31st at Atlanta’s Variety Playhouse. These shows are already on-sale and are close to selling out so purchase your tickets today if you want to assure yourself a spot. Also, the Whigs will perform on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Wednesday October 29th so set your tape machines / DVR / Tivo, etc. Finally, the Whigs have new T-shirts for their fall tour. Check them out HERE. ROCK!!!!!!!!

So that looks pretty swell if you ask me. That's all for now. Take 'er easy.

Monday, Monday, Monday

2008-09-15T11:20:00.006-04:00

First, I rediscovered on of my favorite artists/bands in the past week. That artist is Josh T. Pearson, a Pentecostal grizzly who used to sing and play in Lift to Experience. That Denton, Texas-based outfit influenced Explosions in the Sky. Check out a video of him singing "The Clash." I saw this song live last spring in Amsterdam.

Here is a video of LTE performing "These Are the Days," from The Texas-Jerusalem Crossroads.

You should buy this album today. If you aren't convinced, listen to what my buddy Jon, a booking agent, said about the record in a note to our friend, Lowry, a Yale Law student.
"not christian rock. will blow your fucking mind. suicide and my bloody valentine meet townes van zandt on 9/11. listen to the whole thing in one sitting."

I couldn't say it any better myself. Also, Jon fell asleep listening to the record the other and woke up with his headphone cords wrapped around his neck. So be careful, this thing has serious power.

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

OK people, the day is near. Tomorrow, Dead Confederate releases Wrecking Ball. Here is their new video for lead single, "The Rat," directed by stop-motion artist Pamela Littky. She has also directed videos for Tom Waits and the Raconteurs.

And a live video of "It Was A Rose," from the dingy depths of the Cave in Chapel Hill.

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

A little humor to lighten the mood on this muggy Monday.

Morning

2008-09-08T11:12:00.006-04:00

Greetings, somewhat of a news feed this morning.

First, a gritty video from All the Saints' show at the Death by Audio space in Brooklyn, featuring four new songs, including "Percival," "Daughters," "Untitled (Listen Boy)," and "Half Red Half Way."

all the saints live at death by audio (brooklyn) august 2nd, 2008 from acid marshmallow IV on Vimeo.

Also, check out my brother's blog, titletickler.com. He's been bloggin' a lot more than I have lately. I reckon I need to pick it up.

Here is a video of My Morning Jacket playing Evil Urges' "Touch Me, Pt. 2" on the Black Cab Sessions. It's just Jim and Carl, but it's still very, very awesome.

Next, I have finally found my favorite band in Chapel Hill, Americans in France. Some serious indie/punk dynamics from this trio. Missed them on Saturday night at Nightlight, but certainly won't make that mistake again.

9/9- at the Cradle, the Whigs are opening for Tokyo Police Club. Not the biggest fan of the headliner, but I know the opener always brings the rawk.

9/16-Wrecking Ball, the full length debut from Dead Confederate comes out. Check out American Songwriter's interview with lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist Hardy Morris, here. In addition to touring with Heartless Bastards and Catfish Haven this fall, DC will play on October 10th on the Conan O'Brien Sho w.

Dead Confederate is also streaming new tracks from their album on their myspace. Check out "Yer Circus," which leads me to imagine a UFO fleet coasting above a dried-out cornfield.

Another thing, I am now a DJ on WXYC, UNC-Chapel Hill's radio station. My set is from 6-8 on Thursday Mornings. Stream it live here.

Oh, and finally. This.

"Sticker Fun" and the DC/ATS Tour Pics

2008-07-31T13:29:00.005-04:00

Here are some pics from the Dead Confederate/All the Saints tour I was on in in early June. Here are some highlights from the flickr set, "Sticker Fun." Besides the fact that most of these shots are from the streets of Philly, I don't think I need to explain what is going on here.

Remember to check out "Sticker Fun" to see the rest of these pics. Also go here to see a bunch more from the DC/ATS spring tour.

Crystal Antlers

2008-07-31T12:04:00.007-04:00

I love how some of my favorite bands like Dead Confederate, All the Saints, and Dead Meadow understand that you dont have to flaunt your cock to put the balls back into rock music. Sludging shows a set, too. Another outfit that's on the same page is Crystal Antlers. I'll admit that I am a little late on this Long Beach-based contigency. They've already had the rave Pitchfork review a while back. Once again, it took the Ice Cream Man's rec to get me to really give them a listen. When I hear Jonny Bell's ragged vocals seep through the band's murky sound prism, I picture Atreyu in the Swamp of Sadness, grueling through the mire with that wolf-beast breathing down his neck. Like the flying dog saved him, CA's energy will save you, providing the push to perserve through whatever shit might be bogging you down. Don't wait to listen to this band. Crystal Antlers could tour with any of the other three I mentioned above, as well as a number of others. Here's to hoping that it happens soon, or that they play down south. Come on Fleet Team. I'm looking at you.

Crystal Antlers--Various Songs--Myspace

And a here's a video of the band performing "The Owl," from their heralded EP, at the Mercury Lounge in NYC. Hot. Damn.

Crystal Antlers - The Owl from Joey Angerone on Vimeo.

Say Hallelujah!

2008-07-31T10:53:00.005-04:00

Picture credit to Victor Gutierrez

I'm in Chicago right now with the Ice Cream Man and he turned me onto to something good, good, good last night. It's the good word, The Good Gospel Truth, a raucous Brooklyn via Nashville four-piece featuring members of the Brooklyn indie rockers and Les Savy Favs, Detachment Kit. This jagged fare draws sounds form northwest indie rock, as well as NYC post-punk, and runs those influences through a rusty combine, creating some of the most immediate hooks I've heard in a good bit. It'll sound perfect on a creaky porch come Labor Day, or perhaps a dusty basement party once the the leaves turn and the band's kinetic energy is all that's left to create warmth. Cautiously listen to squalid roar of "This is Not a House of Life" or the Brock-ish but broiling scuzz of "I've Got the Lord's Protection." You'll only want to start the weekend early.

The Good Gospel Truth--Various Songs--Stream

Yo

2008-07-10T13:54:00.006-04:00

It's been awhile. But I'm back. Got to keep things short today but just wanted to give y'all a heads up on a few videos my good friend Brack Bradley created. Brack and I were on the road with Dead Confederate and All The Saints in June for a week and a half. The first video features Dead Confederate's "The Rat" and was created from footage compiled from said tour as well as a live track of the song performed in Asbury Park's The Saint.

"The Rat"

The second video is for All the Saints' "Half Red Half Way." It's taken from footage from a documentary short, "ATS: Trust Your Ears" that Brack directed and produced for the band last year. "Trust Your Ears" highlights All the Saints' first journey to SXSW as well as their time in the studio creating their debut album.

"Half Red Half Way"

Also, hear is a teaser trailer for "ATS: Trust Your Ears."

That's it for now. Expect a lot of pics and words from said tour here in the next week. There will also be other news and updates. Jay the Intern is back.

Long Time No See

2008-02-28T15:29:00.002-05:00

Sorry, It's a been a busy time a lately. Here's some quick news.

Chaz Bundick aka Toro y Moi is at it again. This time with Sides of Chaz, a new experimental/ambient project resulting from the fact that Chaz "found recording on a whim and free styling lyrics to be very FUN." Well Chaz, we're finding it pretty doggone fun, too. So if you don't mind, keep having fun.

Sides of Chaz--Assorted Songs [Stream]

Local screwgrass trio Megafaun got some love from P4K the other day. I saw them for the first time opening for Bon Iver, and it was one hell of a spectacle. These fellers put the row-d in Crowd Interaction. You know that feeling at a show where you don't want to go get another beer because the music is so fucking intoxicating? That's how it was with Megafaun. They've got a record out too, Bury the Square, on Table of the Elements. You must go and purchase it. You must.

Megafaun--Assorted Songs [Stream]

Another JTI fave, Deer Tick, recorded a cover of Sean Kingston's "Beatiful Girls." I admit, I hate this song with a fucking passion, but you got to give it up to John McCauley. Kid knows how to have a good time. Thanks to Dodge at MOKB for the tip.

Deer Tick--"Beautiful Girls" [from MKOB]

Tomorrow Night, if you're in Chapel Hill, go to Hell, because All the Saints will be there. Wait, that don't sound right. Okay, let me try again. Atlanta psych-rock trio All the Saints are bringing their acid-induced thunderstorm to Hell (below Bub O'Malleys) tomorrow night. If you like Dead Confederate, Dead Meadow, Dino, Jr., Pink Floyd, Ozzy, etc., then you'll love All the Saints. They actually just got finished with a little stint opening for that second Dead band and they've got a new record out, which is awesome.

All the Saints--Assorted Songs from new Self-Titled LP [Stream]

That's it for now. But I've seen a lot of live music lately so be on the lookout for some reviews. Here is my parting shot.

That's even better than Dogs Shot with a Wide Angle Lens.

AS Interview, JJ

2008-02-01T16:28:00.000-05:00

As promised, here's my interview with Al Doyle from Hot Chip. Check it out and have a great weekend.

Interview

Also, feast on this video of Jim James singing Bob Dylan's "Going to Acapulco." His cover is available on the "Im Not There" Soundtrack. Have a goodun'

Spicy Chipper

2008-01-30T14:38:00.000-05:00

Here's my review of the new Hot Chip album, Made in the Dark. I interviewed Al Doyle, one of the Electro-nerds, in December and AS.com should be posting that interview soon. When they do, I'll post it here as well.

In the meantime, check out this video of "Ready for the Floor." Human Tetris anyone?

Biscuit Bloggin'

2008-01-30T13:55:00.001-05:00

I am now an official contributor to The Biscuit Blog. For those of you that haven't gotten your fill of biscuits yet, the blog is run by Joel, a buddy of mine who recently moved from Atlanta to Austin. He blogs about everything from the perfect chicken wing to stupid Sky Mall products, but mainly concentrates on music. That's where the expert (hah), yours truly, comes in. Every Tuesday, George Fontaine, from Livewire Recordings picks his two favorite releases from that day. Then I'll follow up with reviews of the albums the next Tuesday. If you ask me , the whole situation's fun as biscuits and gravy. So get over to TBB and check it out!

Sup Pob Sweets

2008-01-29T18:29:00.000-05:00

Sub Pop has two bands right now that I am super excited about. The first is Fleet Foxes, with vocals reminiscent of MMJ, and two other Sub Pop bands--Band of Horses and the Shins. But they aren't resting on these influences. There's gospel, folk, and chamber pop present here, creating breathakingly ethreal songs that wash over you like a hot shower after a long slumber. Whenever I listen to these songs, I feel like Delmar getting baptized in "O Brother Where Art Thou." Or put it this way, if this were a church choir, I would have been twenty minutes early to church when I was seven years old.

Stream--Fleet Foxes

The next is Grand Archives, the new project of Mat Brooke, formerly of Band of Horses. GA sounds like the half-brother to BoH and the grandchild of CSNY--pretty awesome if you ask me. "Torn Blue Foam Couch" features a lovely blend of lush harmonies and ascending instrumentals. It's also probably just as good if not better than most of the songs on Cease to Begin. Brooke and Bridwell sure do know how to write some fucking songs.

Stream--Grand Archives

BTW, Fleet Foxes is opening for another Sub Pop outfit, Blitzen Trapper, on March 23rd at the 506. You can bet your sweet ass I'll be there.

Also, that band I posted the video of rocking Letterman last night will also be at the 506 tomorrow night. The Sammies and Bull City open. Prepare to, in the words of Parker Gispert, rawk your nuts off.

"Power Trio, Paul? Love it!"

2008-01-29T14:53:00.001-05:00

Letterman liked it and so do I. The Whigs rocked Late Night with "Right Hand on My Heart" last night. Check it out.

I gotta run to class, but I got lots of goodies when I get back.

Best of 2007...Sorta

2008-01-18T20:12:00.002-05:00

There's more I'd like to reminisce on from '07, but for now, here is my best of list and my buddy BK's list. He's constantly turning me on to new jams, best of which is Toro y Moi so he more than deserves the cred.

BK's Top Ten Albums:
Okkervil River-The Stage Names

Feist- The Reminder

Panda Bear- Person Pitch

Of Montreal- Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer

Deerhunter- Cryptograms

The National- Boxer

Battles- Mirrored

Grizzly Bear- Friend EP

Menomena- Friend or Foe

Elvis Perkins- Ash Wednesday

Bk's Best Songs
Feist- "1234"
Fuck Buttons- "Bright Tomorrow"
Black Kids- "I'm Not Going to Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance With You"
Grizzly Bear- "Little Brother (Electric)"
Of Montreal- "Heimdalsgate Like a Promethean Curse"
Best Fwends- "Sk8 or Live"
Vampire Weekend- "Mansard Roof"
Kia Shine- "Krispy"
Cracked Out- "Bennigan'z"
Okkervil River- "Our Life is Not a Movie or Maybe"

Gotta love the diversity of that list.

My Top Ten Albums:
1. Boxer-The National
2. 23 Blonde Redhead
3. In Rainbows- Radiohead
4. Emotionalism-The Avett Brothers
5.Person Pitch-Panda Bear
6. Neon Bible-the Arcade Fire
7. Strawberry Jam-Animal Collective
8. La La Land- Wax Fang
9. War Elephant-Deer Tick
10. Ga Ga Ga Ga-Spoon

Top Ten Songs
1."Slow Show"-The National, Boxer
2."Shame"-The Avett Brothers, Emotionalism
3. "Good Girl/Carrots"-Panda Bear, Person Pitch
4."(Antichrist Television Blues)"-the Arcade Fire, Neon Bible
5."The Rat"-Dead Confederate, Dead Confederate EP
6."The Ghost of You Lingers"- Spoon, Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga
7."Nude"-Radiohead, In Rainbows
8."Dirty Dishes"-Deer Tick, War Elephant
9. "2080"-Yeasayer, All Hour Cymbals
10. "The Doctor Will See You Now"- Wax Fang, La La Land

And because BK mentioned Best Fwends, a band that blew me away in London, I'm posting this video as an end of the week treat.

What Would You Do, If You Were Attacked by Robotron Crab People?

2008-01-17T14:46:00.000-05:00

First off: GO TARHEELS. Little too close for comfort last night, but I never really thought we were going to lose. That's why it's the ACC. You beat your rival by 31, then, four days later, eek out a win against the last ranked defensive squad in the league. Any given night.

Les Savy Fav's Let's Stay Friends was one of my top 50 records of 2007, and "What Would Wolves Do" is definitely my favorite from that album. Well, looks like it's my lucky day, because P4k posted the video for the song earlier today. Another plus for me is that it's directed by Ryan Quincy, an animator for South Park--my favorite show. Maybe that's why the pretty little honies turn into robotron crab people in the end. It's one of the more entertaining videos I've seen in awhile.

Also, didn't realize that LSF drummer Harrison Haynes is from Durham. Here's an Independent article on him from awhile ago.

And please, for the love of God, go check out Toro y Moi's new tracks. I'm supposed to be reviewing Atlas Sound right now, but it's so hard, because I cant stop listening to these jams. Start with "Such Bad Handling."

Toro y Moi---Assorted Tracks from My Touch

Finally, Yeasayer and MGMT tonight at the 506. Be there or be [].

Wednesday Potpurri

2008-01-16T14:53:00.000-05:00

The Drive-By Truckers' new album, Brighter than Creation's Dark, comes out next week on New West Records. Below you'll find the video of a hell-raisin' new cut, "That Man I Shot," from last weekend's Rock show at the 40 Watt in Athens. Patterson Hood says the number is based on a soldier's account of his time in Iraq.

Seems our band has some fans over there and we're always moved by the stories of really fine folks who are sacrificing so much for our privileged existence. The man in That Man I Shot probably doesn't agree with a lot of my viewpoints, but I tried to be true to what he said and how he said it. You don't have to agree with someone to respect them and that seemed to run both ways with us. As a writer, it's not my job to agree or disagree and certainly not to judge. It is my job to be as true to the character's voice as humanly possible and to tell the story accordingly.

The rest of the song by song write up can be found here.

Rock on. From what I've heard, I can't disagree with the multiple 4 star reviews this album has received so far. With this and the Whigs new one coming out, 1/22 should be a great day for Athens.

Also, remember that tonight, [edit: I'm an idiot. It's tomorrow night.] Yeasayer and MGMT are playing at the 506. Expect a write up on that soon. In addition, be on the lookout for my interview with Hot Chip for American Songwriter. I'll post that as soon as it's finished. Here's my review of their album.

The Ocho

2008-01-14T13:59:00.000-05:00

Greetings. Happy New Year. Today, let's check out some things that are neat.

1st. Toro y Moi (Chaz Bundick) is streaming tracks from his new album, My Touch, on myspace. This new material draws heavily on the electronic direction he took with his cover of Beach House's "Master of None." Quite different than Woodlands, but still pretty awesome. I really think this kid will make some tidal waves in the Ocho.

B. MGMT was on Letterman last week. That means Hank Sullivant, former multi-instrumentalist for the Whigs, currently shredding a Carolina blue Fender for the Brooklyn-based psych outfit, was also on. Congrats, Hank and MGMT. Word on the Skreet is that Hank has a new solo album. Hopefully we'll have some news on that soon. I'll try to see what I can find out on Wednesday night, when MGMT and Yeasayer will be at the Local 506.

Here's the vid of "Time to Pretend."

III. Gorillavsbear posted the latest Take Away Show from La Blogotheque featuring Alela Diane's "The Rifle." I've loved this song ever since I heard it on Daytrotter, so I'm feeling this.

Have a nice Monday.

Exams, etc.

2007-12-09T20:45:00.000-05:00

I've been drowning in the mire of end of semester papers and exams lately, hence the lack of posts. However, I got a break and figured I'd throw you some odds and ends to get you through the dark times of life without Jay the Intern. Huh?

First, check out Tulsa. I've been listening to this Boston-based three piece's new I Was Submerged EP on repeat lately. They do sound like My Morning Jacket's younger brother, but it's not that brother who tries to do everything big brother does and seems lame. It's the one that learns from big brother and takes that knowledge and does something awesome to create a name for himself. That's a verbose way of saying "buy this fucking record."

I should've as posted this as soon as I got it, but I didn't. And then it got lost in the shuffle. Anyway, here is a video of Dead Confederate from their performance at the Cave a few weeks ago. The song is called "It Was A Rose." Though the sound quality is a little spotty and lead singer Hardy Morris breaks a guitar string midway through, you can still see that this band brings the heat. Thanks to Betsy for the video.

Dead Confederate was in Seattle this weekend play the KEXP Yule Benefit with Yeasayer. Should be interesting to see how that went.

If you haven't checked out Yeasayer, you should definitely do that. "2080," from their debut, All Hour Cymbals, has rollicked onto my Top Ten Songs of the Year. I just found their Daytrotter Session. Definitely go check that out.

Yeasayer--Various Songs live in the Daytrotter Studios

That's it for now. I'm out like Hatton in the tenth round. I'll try to make more posts this week, but I'm not making any promises. For the rest of you college-goers out there, Good Luck.

TONIGHT!!

2007-11-26T14:12:00.001-05:00

Just a reminder that Dead Confederate and Hammer No More the Fingers are playing at the Cave tonight at 10. So come outta that Tryptophan coma and get yo azz to 452.5 West Franklin Skreet. And bring $5 dollars (and some earplugs.)

And if you are as excited as I am, here's a Dead Confederate cover of Neil Young's "On the Beach," posted today by Aquarium Drunkard. Should tide you over until tonight.

Dead Confederate--"On the Beach" [from Aquarium Drunkard]

Jay the Intern Presents: Dead Confederate and Hammer No More the Fingers at the Cave, 11/26

2007-11-20T16:19:00.000-05:00

Dead Confederate is stopping by the Cave next Monday on their way to open for this band, Dinosaur, Jr., in D.C., and they're getting some pretty awesome support from Durham's Hammer No More the Fingers. Judging by what I have heard and seen and by what others have been saying, this should be one hell of a show. Check this out:

Yesterday’s performance from Georgia-band (Athens and thereabout) Dead Confederate blew us away here at the Gibson showroom in NYC. These guys have a live act not to be missed.--KEXP.org

Hammer No More the Fingers' CD release party at Duke Coffeehouse Saturday night stands as one of local music's best moments this year. A perfectly executed four-band bill with consistent energy and an eager shock of fans from start to finish, Saturday night's show left an overflowing coffeehouse covered in sweat and smiles.--Independent Weekly

Doors open at 10 PM and entry is $5. HNMTF's self-titled debut is out now on Power Team Records. It rips. Dead Confederate's Dead Confederate EP hits the shelf at your local record store today. Mixed by Mike McCarthy (Ga Ga Ga Ga), the album features two new songs; the piercing acoustic tale, "Memorial Day Night," and the ominously rousing rocker, "Tortured Artist Saint," along with stronger versions of "The Rat," "Shadow the Walls," and "Get Out." Go pick up a copy now and come rock off your turkey gut on Monday Night!

Danimal Society/ Reverberation Publication

2007-11-19T11:30:00.001-05:00

Gorilla vs. Bear posted some new Animal Collective tracks from the group's recent visit to BBC 1's Rob Da Bank show and--needless to say--they are pretty out there. The best way to describe them would be to say that these dudes will still be an influence in 75 years.

Check those out:

Doggy/ Hey Light [from gvsb]

From a Beach/ On a Highway [from gvsb]

Also, I wrote a review of the Animal Collective set here a few months ago. When American Songwriter made the switch to the new site, it got lost in the fray. Check it.

I will never forget Noah Lennox’s solo Panda Bear set in Lisbon, Portugal at B. Leza. A treacherous two minute trek from our hostel, the venue was a run-down African dance club with high ceilings and a rabid audience. One that spent nearly ninety minutes trying to gain access through the clubs backwards entry system. Anyone remember that letter that Pitchfork posted from the mother angry about the Philly Animal Collective show? Well, let’s just say she probably would have held that Satan was running the door at B. Leza. Let’s also say, “Thank you, Satan, for letting us in.” Lennox—in a rare appearance and straight stuntin’ after the release of his steamin’ hot Person Pitch—paper-Mache-ed segments from that album with new tunes, such as “Laughed for A World Filled with Fantasy,” to fashion an adventurous performance and a vibrant sonic mosaic.

So as I headed into the Animal Collective show at Cat’s Cradle in Carrboro, NC, I prepared myself for anything. I really had no idea what to expect from the experimental outfit other than the fact that I knew their set wasn’t going to be what I expected. I certainly didn’t begin to suppose that Cat’s Cradle would seem more like a 3^rd World dancehall than B. Leza did back in April. However, Animal Collective, a Deakin-less threesome on this particular night, fed the audience an eerie—and often primal—potion of worldly rhythms and never-ceasing madness. Drawing on a hefty dose of dazzling new material and selections from the tangy Strawberry Jam, Lennox, along with Avey Tare and Geologist, transformed the mostly college-age crowd into a possessed mass of sweaty, bobbing bodies. During numbers like “Peacebone,” “House” and “Pan Flute Jam,” the whole scene was simultaneously fanatical and tribal and otherworldly. As ritualistic rhythms blared, 80’s rave lights cast bizarre colors through skeletons that decorated the stage. The show was an acid trip without the acid; one minute melodious, thoughtful and flowing and the next menacing, scatterbrained and spastic. Perhaps the tune that best summed up the entire night was “Brother Sport,” a new song that begins in a Berlin trance and morphs into a nonsensically infectious and celebratory Carribean booty shaker. Like Animal Collective, it was a contrasting concoction that—for some odd reason—always seems to go down the right way.

I also went and picked up some new music publications yesterday. Originally, I only planned to get the new American Songwriter. However, after seeing My Morning Jacket and Band of Horses on the cover of Magnet and Filter, respectively, I had to snag those as well. I guess it's reverb month in the music publication world. Definitely drop by your nearest bookstore and grab all three of 'em.

Raiding the Forkcast

2007-11-12T14:32:00.000-05:00

Forkcast has a lot going on today. I'm sure most everyone has seen the Radiohead webcasts by now so I won't post those, but you can check them out here. However, I do want to post a few things.

The first is The National's recent Black Cab Session, which I've never heard of before, but is simply the video of a band/artist playing a tune in the back of a British cab. Here is Matt Berninger and one of the Dessner twins performing, "You've Done it Again Virginia," the b-side from their 2005 single, "Lit Up." In case you didn't already know, I really like the National.

Really, really nice.

Next, Okkervil River hit up the Daytrotter studios to play some cover tunes and one from their latest, The Stage Names. I just recently got into Okkervil River--and Daytrotter for that matter--so I am pretty psyched about this as well.

Okkervil River--Daytrotter Session

If you haven't picked up a copy of The Stage Names, I suggest you do that ASAP.

Big time this past weekend. Caught Dead Confederate, Summerbirds in the Cellar and Warm in the Wake at the 40 Watt in Athens, Ga on Friday night and then Patterson Hood in a very intimate setting on Saturday afternoon. Check back for more on that and a review of DC's new EP, the Dead Confederate EP.

Long Overdue: Deer Tick

2007-11-07T14:46:00.000-05:00

I got a fever--Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever that is. I got it from Deer Tick aka John McCauley, one of two acts on Jana Hunter's new-er label Feow! Records. I've had it since I listened to his debut, War Elephant, way back in July, and I wrote about this wonderful ailment in the July/August issue of American Songwriter.

Deer Tick is John McCauley, a baby-faced, twenty-one-year-old
singer/songwriter hailing from Providence, Rhode Island. McCauley
writes songs wise beyond his years and sounds a lot more rural East
Texas than folky New England. His voice is quite similar to that of
Jim Croce, also a northerner who dabbled in southern-flavored
songwriting. And like another proclaimed influence, Townes Van Zandt,
McCauley has a knack for lyrical imagery. On the dismal "Dirty Dishes"
he sings, "And that cold wind will blow/ Tear the skin off your nose/
And you got nothing to be grateful for/ But your list of wishes." It's only one example of the inventive wordplay—and undeniable talent—displayed on War Elephant.

If you aren't sweating bullets and having cold chills after reading that scintillating piece of critical prose, you'll certainly become stricken after listening to some tracks.

Deer Tick-Various Tracks from War Elephant [Stream]

It's embarrassing that it's taken me this long to post about Deer Tick. Oh, here's a live video of "Dirty Dishes." It's definitely my favorite song from the album.

The National Is My Friend

2007-11-06T20:25:00.000-05:00

Since I'm posting the Hold Steady review from the AS website, I'll link to this article I have over there about Boxer, and how it kept me sane this summer. Check it out here.

Also, in case you haven't seen it, check out the National's Daytrotter session.

The National--Various Songs live on Daytrotter

If you haven't heard of Daytrotter, please, please go check it out. If you have and don't take advantage of it, then give me a call and I will come hit you over the head with a tack hammer. And if you do utilize the site, Good for you!

The Hold Steady Live at the Lincoln Theatre

2007-11-06T20:01:00.000-05:00

This is from the American Songwriter website.

As cliché as it sounds, if I could drink with any band, I would definitely drink with the Hold Steady. Yeah, yeah, everyone talks about how this is the best live band, how they party their asses off, and how all of their music is about partying their asses off. And it’s redundant for me to say it. But you know what, I’m going to say it anyway. Hell, I’d scream it with a strung-out Craig Finn rasp if I could—because it’s fucking true.

On the 24th of October we ventured to Raleigh to the Lincoln Theatre to catch Art Brut and the Hold Steady, playing together on the NME Rock and Roll Tour. I had seen both bands before; Art Brut at the Empty Bottle the night before Pitchfork ’06 and the Hold Steady at the Astoria in London and also briefly this summer at Bonnaroo. My experience with the former was a bit awkward the first time around. I had actually never heard of the British outfit before (gasp!) and the raucous punk atmosphere they inspired was a little overwhelming. (I had been traveling since 8 am that morning.) This time it was exactly what I was ready for, but despite the fact that Eddie Argos and crew brought the noise, the crowd was pretty tepid during their set. Clearly the contingency gathered in the newly renovated Theatre yearned for the Hold Steady.

By the time the Brooklyn via Minneapolis band cracked into opener “Hot Soft Light” the audience had pushed its way towards the stage, eager to get their Hold Steady fix. Fueled by their swing for the fences rock—and God knows what else—Finn and company motored through numbers from Almost Killed Me, Separation Sunday and Boys and Girls in America like stories told around a coffee table. Just like the spastic front man sings in the aforementioned opener, the night “started recreational, ended kinda medical.” By the time the set was coming to a close and the Hold Steady had chugged through feverish performances of songs like “Massive Nights,” “Multitude of Casualties,” and “Hornets, Hornets,” the crowd was hooked on Finn’s every word. Fists were pumping. Sweat was pouring. Smiles were stretching. Catharsis was breathing. And when Finn exclaimed, “This brings us so much joy” before act closer “Most People Are DJs,” one definitely got the feeling that it was fucking true.

The Hold Steady--Various Songs live at CMJ on KEXP

No Need for Paranoia

2007-11-06T11:21:00.000-05:00

Despite what they sing on Emotionalism's "Paranoia in B Flat Major," Jay the Intern favorite the Avett Brothers don't have much to worry about after last week's Americana Music Awards at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tenn. The Concord, NC natives received two of the three awards for which they were nominated; "Group/Duo of the Year" and "New/Emerging Artist." Emotionalism lost "Album of the Year" to Patty Griffin's Children Running Through. Griffin also won "Artist of the Year," Buddy Miller won "Instrumentalist of the Year," and Darrell Scott won "Song of the Year" for "Hank William's Ghost." Here's a big Jay the Intern and American Songwriter congrats to all the winners.

The Avett Brothers--"Pretty Girl from Chile" [Stream]
Patty Miller--"No Bad News" [Stream]

The Whigs- "Already Young" live on MOKB

2007-11-05T12:47:00.000-05:00

Dodge from My Old Kentucky Blog posted a live acoustic recording of a new track, "Already Young" from the Whigs' upcoming album, Mission Control. In the acoustic version, the song gives a strong Neil Young, especially with the reverb turned up the way it is. Quite contrary to the live delivery, which is heavy and grungy and pretty f**king sinister. Can't really argue with either.

The Whigs- "Already Young" [From MOKB]
from Mission Control 1/22/08 on ATO

Wax Fang Update

2007-11-05T12:22:00.000-05:00

Wax Fang has posted two tracks from the previously heralded La La Land on their Myspace. Both "The Doctor Will See You Now" and "Avant Guardian Angel" illustrate the complexities I mentioned last week. "Doctor" is an intricate, carnival rock concoction about keeping your cool, while the latter is a post-rock instrumental that carries you into the heavens upon the wings of soaring electric guitars and arena-size drums. Guess that's where the "Angel" idea comes from. Check 'em out for yourself and let me know what you think.

"The Doctor Will See You Now" [Stream]

"Avant Guardian Angel" [Stream]

[Update]La La Land will be available for purchase on Wax Fang's Myspace and on their website on November 17th.

I'm in La La Land

2007-10-29T10:48:00.000-04:00

After his show on Thursday night, Parker Gispert from the Whigs slipped me an advanced copy of the debut from recent tour mates, Wax Fang, and I am fucking glad that he did. La La Land, set to drop on November 17th on Don't Panic Records, is a thrilling musical amalgam that Gispert truthfully declares, "will rock your d**k off." Frontman Scott Carney and his Louisville, KY-based gang of merry rockers have molded a rollercoaster record that blends everything from psych-pop to Irish folk to post-rock to 80s hair fare. Beautifully orchestrated and hyperdynamic, La La Land's highlighted by some seriously kickass axe-wielding and drum-whooping, as well as Carney's off-kilter lyrical prowess. If I were you, I would be counting down the days until November 17th.

Check out some tunes from Wax Fang at their myspace.

Also check out this video of "Hearts are Made for Beating," live from Headliners in Louisville.

The Whigs: New Album

2007-10-19T14:49:00.000-04:00

Athens, Georgia favorites The Whigs have announced January 22, 2008 as the release date for their ATO debut, apparently titled Mission Control. The album was produced by Rob Schnapf (Elliot Smith, Beck) in Sunset Sound Recorders in L.A. Both Pet Sounds and Exile on Main Street were recorded there. After hearing a number of these songs live, I am very excited for this thing to drop. Check out a stream of "Like A Vibration" below.

"Like A Vibration" [Stream]

As expected folks, this one seems like it's going to be a rock record.

Whig out this fall.

10-19-07: Lexington, KY. - The Dame w/ Jason Isbell
10-20-07: Atlanta, GA. - The Variety Playhouse w/ Jason Isbell Buy Atlanta Tix
10-23-07: Knoxville, TN. - World Grotto w/ The Broken West Buy Knoxville Tix
10-24-07: Asheville, NC. - Grey Eagle Tavern w/ The Broken West Buy Asheville Tix
10-25-07: Chapel Hill, NC. - Local 506 w/ The Broken West Buy Chapel Hill Tix
10-26-07: Philadelphia, PA. - Khyber w/ the Broken West Buy Philly Tix
10-27-07: Washington DC. - Rock and Roll Hotel w/ The Broken West Buy D.C. Tix
10-30-07: Nashville, TN. - The Exit / In Buy Tix Buy Nashville Tix
10-31-07: Cincinnati, OH. - 20th Century Theatre w/ The Broken West Buy Cincinnati Halloween Tix
11-01-07: Indianapolis, IN.- Birdy’s w/ The Broken West Buy Indianapolis Tix or Call (317) 254-8971
11-02-07: Chicago, Ill. - Schubas w/ The Broken West Buy Chicago Tix
11-03-07: Minneapolis, MN. - 7th Street Entry w/ The Broken West Buy Minneapolis Tix
11-04-07: Spearfish, SD – The Back Porch w/ Wild Sweet Orange
11-06-07: Boise, ID – The Bouquet w/ Wild Sweet Orange
11-07-07: Portland, OR – Roseland Grill w/ Wild Sweet Orange
11-08-07: Eugene, OR – John Henry’s w/ Wild Sweet Orange Buy Eugene Tix
11-09-07: Seattle, WA – University of Washington (KEXP Presents.....) w/ Wild Sweet Orange
11-12-07: San Francisco, CA – Café Du Nord w/ Wild Sweet Orange Buy San Francisco Tix
11-13-07: Los Angeles, CA – Spaceland (Aquarium Drunkard Presents.....) w/ Wild Sweet Orange
11-15-07: Austin, TX – Stubb’s w/ Wild Sweet Orange Buy Austin Tix
11-16-07: Dallas, TX – Club Dada w/ Wild Sweet Orange
11-17-07: Shreveport, LA – Sharpie’s w/ Wild Sweet Orange
11-29-07: Detroit, MI – The Crofoot w/ The Redwalls and Johnathan Rice
11-30-07: Toronto, ON – El Mocambo w/ The Redwalls and Johnathan Rice
12-01-07: Buffalo, NY – The Mohawk w/ The Redwalls and Johnathan Rice Buy Buffalo Tix
12-03-07: Boston, MA – TT The Bears w/ The Redwalls and Johnathan Rice Buy Boston Tix
12-04-07: New York, NY – Knitting Factory w/ The Redwalls and Johnathan Rice Buy NYC Tix
12-06-07: Cleveland, OH – Beachland Tavern w/ The Redwalls and Johnathan Rice Buy Cleveland Tix

Dead Confederate on KEXP

2007-10-18T19:10:00.001-04:00

Fall break is here and I gotta run but before I do check this shit out. Dead Confederate played KEXP's CMJ Broadcast yesterday and fucking rocked "The Rat" and three new songs ("Heavy Petting," "Is It A Rose," and "Tortured Artist Saint"). These fellers destroyed my house party in Chapel Hill on Saturday night. Crowd surfing, mosh pit, the works. Click below to find out why and if you are in NYC this weekend make sure you check them out.

Dead Confederate live on KEXP

Dang.

What Would You Do If I Sang Out of Tune?

2007-10-08T12:23:00.000-04:00

So tonight is Two Gallants and Blitzen Trapper at the Local 506. I am pretty stoked.

Almost as stoked as this guy.

Jayess!!!

Last Night Was A Surprise

2007-10-08T11:41:00.000-04:00

So last night I wanted to catch folkster Ferraby Lionheart opening for the Brunettes at the Local 506. Well, I only got to see the last two songs because the damned team we were playing in the intramural flag football tournament wouldn't give up and we ended up having to put them down in overtime. It was still very good stuff--two songs I'd never heard before. I talked to Ferraby after the show and it sounds like he has really enjoyed the tour. If you haven't gotten his full length debut, Catch the Brass Ring, you need to, because it's great. (I gave it four stars in the upcoming edition of American Songwriter.)

I'm sure you've guessed by now that the surprise was the Brunettes. I knew it was going to be an interesting show when male lead Jonathan Bree set up his guitar and mic in the stripper cage (?) that the 506 has across the floor from the stage. This made for incredibly amusing New Zealand banter between the band and Bree and also magnified the chemistry between Bree and his lovely female counterpart (and band co-founder)Heather Mansfield. I laughed for most of the show, as they also had a "name game" band introduction and a dance contest, things that apparently they've been doing for awhile but were still quite funny. But that's not to say the music was a joke. Drawing from their new Sub Pop debut Structure and Cosmetics as well as 2002's Holding Hands, Feeding Ducks, the set was a great blend of sunny guitar and piano pop sprinkled with sparkling hand percussion, charming harmonies, and bubbly brass. Highlights included the choreographed "Brunettes Against Bubblegum Youth," almost Arcade Fire coda-ed "Her Hairagami Set," and set-ender "Small Town Crew." Bree says the latter will be the albums's first radio single, as well as a new music video, scheduled to be shot in a few weeks.

The Brunette's Myspace, where you can stream a number of new tracks from the S and C.

Also, here's a breezy video of Ferraby Lionheart's "A Crack in Time," from The Ferraby Lionheart EP.

How nice.

Wow, I'm back. / Portugal, The Man

2007-10-08T11:05:00.001-04:00

Ok, I've been gone for awhile. But now I'm back and I don't think I'm going anywhere.

First on the platter is Portugal, The Man, a band I was supposed to go see the other night with a buddy of mine. I'm not sure how he met them, but their myspace says they are from Wasilla, Alaska. I must say after listening to some of the tracks from Church Mouth it sounds like that extra daylight up there has done them well. They remind me a lot of another northwestern outfit, Blitzen Trapper, in that their music transcends genre. It's an Alaskan snowball packed with grungy soul, rock, and roots that either wallops you in the face or envelops you in a druggy haze. And there's certainly enough talent here to get past the fact that the lead vocalist sounds like he took lessons from Jack White. Check it out some tracks on their myspace. I recommend "Telling Tellers Tell Me," and "Shade."

Portugal, The Man's Myspace

Also, here's a video of them with the Fall of Troy and Tera Melos jamming on "Tommy" from 2006's Waiter: You Vultures.

Kicking myself I didn't see them live.

Exclamations

2007-07-03T09:13:00.000-04:00

Don't have much time today but check out this video for Flosstradamus' remix of Matt and Kim's "Yea Yeah." Gorilla vs. Bear posted the Demonbabies-directed video last night, and I couldn't help but do the same this morning because these are two duos I really enjoy.

Now it's off to work construction...

ICM: Girl Talk

2007-06-27T13:27:00.000-04:00

Why in the name of the Summer Solstice was Tag Team’s “Whoomp, There It Is,” the Cranberries, “Dreams,” and Peter Bjorn and John’s “Let’s Call It Off,” being played within the same set at Bonnaroo? Why was every soul in the overcrowded “Other Tent” screaming their lungs out to Kelly Clarkson’s “Since You’ve Been Gone?” Why was there a skinny DJ onstage in his underwear screaming orders at the crowd? Better yet, why was the crowd listening? Was this the sign of the Apocalypse?

No, no, no, it was the work of that rascally mash-up mad scientist, Girl Talk. The Pittsburgh native, born Greg Gillis, throws a party like no other. Imagine (or remember) how fun it would be (or was) to get hammered at a middle school dance party, because that is basically what Girl Talk’s set is like. Rockin’ only a Mac, Gillis stewed A.D.D. cuts ranging from the aforementioned artists to T.I. to the Band to Hot Chip to Nirvana. No joke. Fans were shaking their asses on stage. Hippies were doing the robot. Newcomers were slapping themselves for ignorance. I was swinging my T-Shirt over my head. It was hypnotic mayhem. I mean, at one point, everyone was so spellbound by Gillis’ melodic experiments that he stopped and ordered the tent to “stop looking at the f***ing stage, turn to the person beside you and f***ing dance.”

Yes, sir, Mr. Girl Talk, sir. You are officially the king of Late Night Bonnaroo.

Ice Cream Man

2007-06-26T12:46:00.000-04:00

Tons of pics up on the Bonnaroo Review at the Ice Cream Man site. Be sure to head over there today and check them out.

The Police

2007-06-26T12:12:00.001-04:00

I will admit that I didn't go to the Police in a critical state of mind. I actually spent most of the walk to "What Stage," screaming, "I'm ready to get stung!" Lame, I know. Drinking bourbon out of a Camelback will do that to you. I will also say this: I've been to plenty of shows just to have a good time and been disappointed. And I know there are a lot of cool kids saying the Police weren't protecting and serving like they used to. But I'll tell you what, Sting, Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland were very entertaining. Sure, Sting couldn't hit some of the high notes on songs like "So Lonely," "Don't Stand So Close to Me," and "Roxanne," but the trio still sounded great, especially for a band that hasn't played together in over 20 years (and a bunch of old dudes). Not to mention that basically every song you heard was a Top 20 Hit, and that five of them; "Message in A Bottle," "Walking on The Moon," "Don't Stand So Close to Me," "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic," and "Every Breath You Take," were #1 on the UK charts. You can't help but feel a bit warm and fuzzy on the inside that you're seeing them played live. Plus, how often can you scream "Da Do Do Do, De Da Da Da" at the top of your lungs and not feel like an idiot? Never, but I did it anyway. Yeah, so maybe you think I'm not cool because I had fun at the Police. I don't give a...

ICM: Wilco

2007-06-25T18:46:00.000-04:00

Wilco
Just like their new album, Wilco's set at Bonnaroo was solid. I mean, they pulled out the really big guns; "Jesus, Etc.," "I'm Trying to Break Your Heart," "Via Chicago," "Handshake Drugs," "Shot in the Arm," "War on War," "Hummingbirds," "I'm the One Who Loves You," "Spiders," etc. That's bleeping all-star. And except for obnoxious drums and really cheesy synth on "Via Chicago," the music was on point. But for some reason, it just didn't resonate. Maybe it was the size of the stage. Maybe it was because it was the last day; I was tired and couldn't stop thinking about the White Stripes. Maybe it was because of the fact that of the five new songs played, only "You Are My Face," and "Walken," really held up. I think it was probably a combination of those things. I will say this, Jeff Tweedy looked as happy as I have ever seen him, and Matt was grooving a few rows in front of me. And I said it was solid. Ain't nothin' wrong with that.

ICM: The Hold Steady

2007-06-25T13:54:00.000-04:00

The Hold Steady

This has been one of the most talked about sets from the weekend. Much to my chagrin, I only caught six songs because I was in the middle of an interview. From what I did see, it’s no surprise that the Minneapolis-based bar rockers’ performance has received high acclaim. The short stint I caught featured some of the band’s most balls-out fare, such as Boys in Girls in America’s “Hot Soft Light,” “Chips Ahoy,” “Stuck Between Stations,” and “Southtown Girls,” as well as Seperation Sunday’s “Hornets, Hornets,” and “Lil’ Hoodrat Friend,” with spastic front man Craig Finn inciting the well-buzzed crowd to chant “Yankees Suck” during the latter. The inebriated roar following that exclamation was unlike any I heard the entire time I was in Manchester. From what I can gather, the Hold Steady’s act screamed with the same drunken intensity.

ICM:The White Stripes

2007-06-25T13:24:00.000-04:00

The White Stripes
The setting of the White Stripes’ Sunday evening performance radiated devilish mystique. Hell (whoops), if a bible-thumping local had been there, they’d probably tell you satan hisself was in the festival grounds. As an abnormally large smoke ring floated in the sky, the little remaining sunlight illuminated the White “siblings”—clad in their traditional red and white and backed by a cherry red curtain—like the fiery depths of Hades. It was a scene straight from the cover of Weekly World News, with headlines reading, “Lucifer Seen at White Stripes Concert. Porta-lets Burst into Flames”

And you can bet your ass that the Stripes played like musicians possessed, slaying numbers from their new release, Icky Thump, as well as selections from past albums all the way back to debut The White Stripes—like the sweaty, biker bar romp, “Stop Breakin’ Down.” Strumming his guitar, “Rita,” Brother White took on the persona of an old country star, addressing the crowd in an amped-up southern dialect while performing countrified fare like the oft-covered hit, “Jolene,” the rockabilly strutting “Hotel Yorba,” and the moonshine still punk-rocker “Black Math.” It was a definite demonstration of this band’s range, as was the final stretch, which saw the White Stripes blister the crowd with squirrelly distortion on “Blue Orchid,” cruise in the Cadillac with “I Just Don’t Know What to Do with Myself,” become hippie-friendly with “We’re Going to Be Friends,” and then tear off into the night with “Seven Nation Army.” Then Jack and Meg took a bow for the audience, as the former left us with the following;

“God Bless Ya. Thank you for buyin’ our records. Have Fun. Get home safely.”

Thank you, Jack and Meg. That was a mighty fine performance.

ICM: Tortoise

2007-06-22T13:04:00.000-04:00

Tortoise

I had never listened to Tortoise prior to Bonnaroo. I’m a fan of the Sea and Cake, so I was excited to see what John McIntire’s main project had to offer. The instrumental five-piece’s genre-bending post-rock was a perfect fit for the new festival demographic. It was jamming enough to please the patchouli-friendly folk and artistic and credible enough to attract the indie crowd. But all appeasing aside, this band is insanely talented and created a variety of instrumentals that left this guy scratching his head in bewilderment. And I was sober. I can’t imagine what that bug-eyed dude next to me must have been thinking.

Tortoise's Myspace

ICM: Hot Chip

2007-06-22T12:11:00.000-04:00

Hot Chip

When the first Bonnaroo was in the works, I bet the founders never dreamed that one day, a group of nerdy British guys armed with a variety of synthesizers would take the festival’s second largest tent in the palm of their hand. Sure enough, it was late night in the daytime on Friday afternoon in “This Tent.” UK-based, electronica quintet Hot Chip had a jam-packed tent bumpin’ and grindin’ to selections from their past two albums, Coming on Strong and The Warning, as well as some bangin’ unreleased material. Spruced-up interpretations of songs like TW’s “And I Was A Boy from School,” and unreleased live stalwart “Shake A Fist”—described in my notes as “f***in’ rad”—had new initiates pulling dance moves they never imagined possible. I should mention that this was only thirty minutes into the set. Sadly, I only caught stories of the mayhem caused by “The Warning” and “Over and Over” because I had other shows to check out. Yes, I left. I am an idiot. I know.

Hot Chip's Myspace

ICM: The National

2007-06-21T10:57:00.000-04:00

The National

It took a long time for the National to get their Thursday night set started in "That" tent—a delay resulting from the first of many sound issues at Bonnaroo 2007—but once the Cincinatti-based quintet did, it was on. Matt Berninger and company brought the slow-building heat, performing a number of tracks from their critically acclaimed new album, Boxer, such as "Fake Empire," "Mistaken for Strangers," "Green Gloves" and "Slow Show," as well as "Friend of Mine," "Baby We'll Be Fine," "Mr. November," and "Secret Meeting" from 2005's heralded release, Alligator. Sprinting around the stage and climbing atop amp stacks, Berninger sang into the heavens as the stately rock sounds of brothers Dessner and Devendorf soared across an enraptured audience. And for their closing number, the National selected "About Today" from their Cherry Tree EP--its breathtaking, orchestral ascension a perfect summation of the night's performance.

The National's Myspace

Ice Cream Man: Bonnaroo

2007-06-21T10:48:00.000-04:00

I am writing a bunch of reviews from Bonnaroo for the Ice Cream Man, which I will also post here. These aren't lengthy reviews, mostly just accompaniament to the loads of awesome pictures he posts. So make sure you go over to his site and check them out. The big review should be up in the next couple of days. Also, if he is ever in your neck of the woods, make sure you go by and get some ice cream. (Or just talk to the guy. It's not like someone who travels around the country giving away free ice cream doesn't have killer stories to tell.)

Toro y Moi

2007-06-20T15:46:00.000-04:00

My friend B.K. told me about Toro y Moi a few weeks ago. Toro y Moi is the side project of Chaz Bundick, the front man for Columbia, SC-based band, The Heist and the Accomplice. I listened to a couple of tracks on the myspace page and was instantly hooked. So I e-mailed Chaz and he sent me 19 tracks of his material. Holy moly! It's really good stuff, definitely with some Animal Collective tendencies--there's a multitude of sonic elements present--but much easier to digest. Bundick lists influences ranging from the aforementioned clan to Devendra Banhart to David Bazan. But in all honesty, Toro y Moi is just Toro y Moi. Bundick's plaintive vocals are beautifully layered over an intriguing blend of kaleidoscopic folk and rock to create original, well written songs. To think that he does it all himself makes it that much better. Here's to hoping that Chaz releases an album soon.

Check it out for yourself!

I am working on arranging an interview with Chaz, so look for that in the near future!

Elvis Perkins in Dearland at Bonnaroo

2007-06-19T10:49:00.000-04:00

I mentioned Monday that Elvis Perkins' set was my favorite at Bonnaroo this year. Sure the White Stripes killed it and Girl Talk blew us all away with his incredible sampling routine, but I knew that was going to happen. I listened to a little bit of Perkins' debut, Ash Wednesday , a couple of weeks ago, and was impressed by what I heard, but I wasn't expecting the awe I experienced during his afternoon performance with backing band, Dearland. A refreshing breeze blew through the tent as the folk-loving crew blessed a sun-beaten but sizable crowd with an assortment of songs, (relatively) old and new. Perkins' modern folk was a stark contrast from the neo-classic rock blasting from the Wolfmother set across the way, but it was the perfect introspective fare for a tattered, Sunday Bonnaroo population. Beginning with Dylan-influenced, Ash Wednesday opener "While You Were Sleeping," Perkins captivated us before introducing "Hey," a bustling new tune. The wiry, baby-faced songsmith then slowed it down again with the stunning "Emile's Vietnam in the Sky," before picking things up with the jazzy shuffle of "Without Love" and the driving rhythm of "Weeping Pilgrim," a song he informed us was a "dance number in the Civil War days." Perkins and company pulled back on the reins for the next stretch, delving into AW's quirky "Sleep Sandwich;" a new organ flavored tune, "Shampoo," and the bourbon-lulled number "The Night and the Liquor." Dearland left Perkins with his guitar and harmonica for the next selection, "It's Only Me," but their return saw a crowd-pleasing addition, Alec Ounsworth of CYHSY--a band Perkins opened for earlier this year. Donning a straw sun hat, the eccentric front man contributed electric guitar and backing vocals to "Doomsday," the most uplifiting number of the set, complete with spirited trombone, a rollicking drum line, and a "la la la" harmony. And with the carefree, jazz-infused, "1,2,3, Goodbye," Perkins brought his soothing act to a close, instructing the audience to "take care." It was a cheerful ending to an enriching performance, an hour of clarity that reminded us all that great music isn't always about booty-shakin', foot-stompin' or headbangin'--and that Bonnaroo's eclectic line-up allows for such realizations.

Bonnaroo Recap

2007-06-18T14:39:00.000-04:00

For some reason when I thought about Bonnaroo today this quote from National Lampoon's Vacation popped into my brain.

"We're gonna have so much fucking fun they're gonna need plastic surgeons to remove the smiles from our fucking faces. We'll be whistling zippity-doo-dah out of our ass holes."

I need a plastic surgeon right now, too. And I'm pretty sure my butt hasn't been this musical in years. But seriously, talk about an awesome weekend.

What should I begin with? Interviewing the Whigs on the Ferris Wheel? Seeing the White Stripes for the first time? Unabashedly removing my t-shirt and waving in the air during a ridiculous late night set from Girl Talk? Chatting about the heat with Elvis Perkins at the coffee bar before his Sunday set--my favorite of the weekend. Eating large amounts of ice cream backstage? Catching awesome performances from the National, Hot Chip, the Hold Steady, Dr. Dog and Tortoise, among others. Singing along with Sting? (I mean, uh....)

Yeah, it was a pretty absurd time. How 'bout I just post some of the pictures that Bob Clement took...

Elvis Perkins and special guest Alec Ounsworth of Clap Your Hands Say Yeah

Hot Chip

Parker Gispert of the Whigs

Scott McMicken of Dr. Dog

Sting

Look for more in-depth Bonna reviews throughout the week.

Bizzle Rizzle Fashizzle Dizzle

2007-06-15T13:09:00.000-04:00

Day One of Bonnaroo was a great success. In addition to meeting up with my other employer for the weekend, the Ice Cream Man, I caught some really rad music. Imagine that? First off was the Black Angels, whose eerie pysch rock was nicely complimented by an incredible sunset backdrop. Then after slingin' some scream with Matt, I headed over to the National. Matt Berninger and co. brought the heat on a number of tracks from their recent release, Boxer, as well as a few from Alligator. Their beautiful form of rock 'n' roll sailed across the audience with an awesome intensity. Lastly we caught the Whigs. I haven't seen these guys in a a while and I was really excited to hear some new tracks. The new stuff sounds great, ranging from Nuggets-tinged fare to full on, early 90's grunge metal. The latter was particularly impressive and surprising. Their new bassist/multi-instrumentalist U.S. Gunn seems to mesh really well with Parker Gispert (lead vocals/guitar) and Julian Dorio (drums). They also played a badass cover of John Lennon's "Instant Karma." Crowd was lovin' it.

O.K., gotta go, boss needs the comp. More updates later. Stay tuned.

It's Business Time!

2007-06-13T16:13:00.000-04:00

Pretty behind on the blog 'cause there's lots of stuff goin' on right now.

First off, Last Thursday we caught the spirited roots-rock duo Two Gallants at the Basement here in the Music City. Adam Stephens and Tyson Vogel gave us a hearty dish of the well-written, wild west rock 'n' roll found on their last album, What the Toll Tells. Highlights included the set opening intro to "Steady Rollin'," with tripped-out, oriental flavoring that invoked images of the opium den scenes from Tombstone. Fontaine's guitar and vocals were searing on numbers like "Seems Like Home to Me" from their new EP, The Scenery of Farewell(released on Saddle Creek on June 17), and crowd favorite, "Las Cruces Jail," on which Edneud illustrated his highly-energetic rhythmic tendencies. Two Gs also debuted tracks from their upcoming LP, one titled "The Country Emo Song." Stuff sounds pretty similar to their current songs live, but that stuff is awesome in my book, so I look forward to the new release.

Check out "Seems Like Home to Me" here.

Tomorrow we head to Bonnaroo. Hee-haw! This will be my third year going to the fest and I really can't say enough good things about it. Heck, I guess I'm really excited to see Manu Chao Radio Bemba Sound System, the Hold Steady, the National, the Black Angels, the White Stripes, Dr. Dog, the Black Keys, Feist, The Whigs, Charlie Louvin, Girl Talk, the Flaming Lips at Midnight, El-P, the Superjam with John Paul Jones, Ben Harper, and ?uestlove, and number of other super duper bands that will be playing. I could really go on and on. Oh and the Silent Disco. If you're reading this and going to Bonnaroo, please go there. I will never forget dancing with 75% of My Morning Jacket two years ago in the ring of happiness that is the Silent Disco. It was the night before their show and I am pretty sure that dancing near me was the reason they rocked so hard the next day. Obviously I am kidding but it was still awesome.

Ok, sorry to nerd out there. Here's some tracks that I can't stop listening to.

The first is by Z.A.K. and lays the lyrics from Clipse's "Mr. Me Too" over the music from Lee Fields' "Honey Dove." It's the equivalent of a cool summertime breeze. It's taken from P4K

The second is "FaFaFa," a funk-infused dance track from Datarock and though most of y'all might know about 'em, I just found out about the Norwegian dance duo from my friend, Rachel. Slow, I know. You can find it on their Myspace page.

Oh, and I almost forgot. I am pee my pants excited to see Flight of the Conchords. Here is a video of those guys performing their song, "Business Time." So awesome.

That's it for now. If I don't post tomorrow, I'll see everybody on Monday.

Summerbirds in the Cellar

2007-06-05T11:37:00.000-04:00

Athens/Orlando-based, electro-psych quartet Summerbirds in the Cellar have a pretty rad string of dates coming up. First, they open in Tallahassee for poppin' off art-rock sensations, Battles. Then Summerbirds bust three nights with another Athens band, Elf Power, and the falsetto-loving, junkyard dogs, Man Man. They also have a new album, Druids, that drops soon. Indie Mom posted three demos over at Speed of Dark, and these electro-heavy rockers sound very nice. The vocals are somewhat similar to Hot Chip , but that's really only if you really want to make a comparison. Should be a really good time when this record drops.

[From Speed of Dark]

Summerbirds in the Cellar- wicked world (move softly) [demo]

Summerbirds in the Cellar- the hero boys, the folding [demo]

Summerbirds in the Cellar- the night thief [demo]

Summerbirds in a cellar near you:

Jun 15 2007
9:00P
40 Watt w/ Maserati (CD RELEASE!)
Athens, Georgia

Jun 20 2007
9:00P
Beta Bar w/ Battles
Tallahassee, Florida

Jun 26 2007
8:00P
BackBooth w/ Man Man and Elf Power
Orlando, Florida

Jun 27 2007
9:00P
Studio A w/ Man Man and Elf Power
Miami, Florida

Jun 28 2007
8:00P
Orpheum w/ Man Man and Elf Power
Ybor City, Florida

The Avett Brothers--Whippin' It

2007-06-01T14:27:00.000-04:00

Concord, NC-based, genre-defying trio the Avett Brothers are really kicking ass right now. Released on May 15th, their sixth studio album, Emotionalism, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Heatseekers Chart, #134 on the Billboard Top 200 and #13 on the Billboard Indie Chart. Not bad for a group of guys who used to throw their instruments in the van and play wherever they fancied--sidewalk, parking lot, you name it. Hopefully you also caught them on Conan a few weeks ago when they performed "Paranoia in Bflat Major." The lanky, red-headed comedian was so amped following their set that he gave Scott Avett's bass drum a few kicks during his closing remarks. Righteous.

Here's the video from that performance:

Also, the Avett Brothers will be on NPR's Weekend Edition this Saturday. That show takes place from 8-10 A.M. If you can't get it on the radio then check it out at npr.org.

And finally, here is my review of Emotionalism, which will appear in the July/August issue of American Songwriter. It's probably the best issue yet, featuring a cover story on Ryan Adams, an interview with Jack White about Icky Thump, and a rad piece on Elvis' songwriters in honor of the 30th Anniversary of the death of the King--in addition to tons of other great reads. Look for it to hit newsstands in about two weeks.

Emotionalism
Avett Brothers
Ramseur Records
4.5 Stars

The Avett Brothers have never been afraid to sew their hearts on their sleeve. Among the many labels that have been placed on the Concord, N.C.-based trio over the years, there has been one that has always ringed clear: honest. On their sixth album, Emotionalism, integrity is once again the pervading theme. In an age they say “where playing it cool is the way to be,” the Avett Brothers lay their thoughts and beliefs on the table for all to examine, hoping that others will do the same.

This is a band created from the urge to try something new, when Scott and Seth Avett decided to unplug from their hardcore band Nemo and start the eclectically acoustic row they now hoe. So it’s no surprise that they—along with bassist Bob Crawford—utilize a fresh bag of tricks on Emotionalism. Listening to the pop-friendly production of opener “Die Die Die,” one senses that the Avetts have given a shave and a haircut to their normally rough-hewn sound. It’s as big of a risk as the lyrical material, but dang if it doesn’t work. On “Shame,” a song that finds the brothers lamenting over the loss of a girl due to adolescent confidence, light organ compliments one of the cleanest and best Avett melodies to date. “Will You Return” begins as an insecure Mignonette-esque banjo and guitar shuffle, then rides a bubbly, orchestral interlude into a passionate, drum-backed finish. Four Thieves Gone contributor Paleface adds bluesy harmonica and his Marlboro-tattered rasp to “Go to Sleep,” a reassuring barroom sing-a-long that also incorporates keys, fiddle, cello and drums.

It’s not all upbeat production. Such as on the timeless affirmation of love “All My Mistakes,” the Avetts shift on a few numbers from the back porch to the parlor, allowing solemn polish and stunning lyrics to pull the heartstrings of the listeners. After Emotionalism, honest is going to have to get used to the company of another label: brilliant.

Grace Slick?

2007-06-01T10:10:00.000-04:00

In addition to creating one of my favorite websites, Moustache May, Mackle at Yewknee posted two tracks the other day from the White Rabbits debut, Fort Nightly. I checked 'em out this morning and am loving what I hear. Both of these songs utilize multiple sound layers for an upbeat latin flavor that is really, really catchy. I actually saw this disc sitting in the stacks yesterday and I have been kicking myself over the fact that didn't pick it up before I went out of town for the weekend. Oh, well. I definitely have something to look forward to on Monday.

Yeah, so throw on your dancing shoes this weekend and shake to the sounds of White Rabbits.

White Rabbits- Kid On My Shoulders (from Yewknee)

White Rabbits- I Used To Complain Now I Don't (from Yewknee)

White Rabbits' Myspace

Blitzen Trapper

2007-05-31T12:45:00.000-04:00

I've been meaning to get something up about Portland's Blitzen Trapper since I heard their new disc, Wild Mountain Nation, a few weeks ago. Pitchfork posted the bourbon-soaked title track on their Forkcast last week, and it's a good reflection of how badass this record is. Set to drop on June 12th, the band's third album is a barrel full of psychedelic roots-rock that'll probably soundtrack most of your summer drinking excursions. Album opener "Devils A-Go-Go" begins with a roaring guitar riff, swirls into a Tijuana haze and then rocks out in the back room of a smoky arcade. "Miss Spiritual Tramp" is a meth-distorted, six-string punisher that struts around on high heels and features a front stoop harmonica breakdown. It's not hard to see why they're opening for the Hold Steady for the next few weeks. Damn, if only they were playing in the area.

Wild Mountain Nation will hit record stores near you on 6/12/07!

Blitzen Trapper's Myspace.

Caribou

2007-05-31T11:19:00.000-04:00

Dan Snaith's Merge Records debut, Andorra, hits the shelves on August 21st. The Dundas, Ontario whiz, who has performed as Caribou since a legal dispute over the Manitoba moniker with Handsome "Dick" Manitoba in 2004, says he has never been this excited about his music and it's easy to see why. Snaith blends airy vocals, sunny psych-pop and complex layers of Krautrock-infused electronica for one of the best releases we've heard this year. Snaith also holds a Ph.D in Mathematics, probably one of the reasons songs are so beautifully calculated and composed. We literally haven't taken it our of our record player since it came in on Monday. "She's the One" features Junior Boys front man and longtime friend Jeremy Greenspan and album closer "Niobe" is a nearly nine minute long, super-addicting, electronica treasure.

You can go here to listen to tunes from some of Snaith's previous releases, such as "Jacknuggeted" from 2001's Up in Flames and "Bees" from 2005'sThe Milk of Human Kindness.

Also, check out this video for "Bees" by the Delicious 9. It's pretty rad.

Pizzle Bizzle

2007-05-31T10:02:00.000-04:00

Gorilla vs. bear posted a new Panda Bear track yesterday afternoon. "Laugh for a World Filled with Fantasy" was recently added to Itunes as part of a live recording. It's more otherworldly stuff from Noah Lennox, and it's dagum terriffic. You want to know what chaps my ass? We got a great video of Lennox playing the first part of this song live at B. Leza in Portugal. However, we can't post it because it's on my friend George's computer and he won't reply to my constant pleas for him to send it to me. Yeah, so George if you're reading this, send that video or the memory card or anything. Please.

Sorry about that rant. Check out the new track for yourself.

mp3: Laugh for a World Filled with Fantasy (from GvB)

You can buy the live recording, Panda Bear Live at ZDB, September 2004 in two parts, linked below:

Part I--"Laugh for a World Filled with Fantasy"

Part II--"Bros"

Schlansky Does Dylan

2007-05-24T13:53:00.000-04:00

Any of y'all that read American Songwriter know Evan Schlansky for his regular column, "The Schlansky Files," as well for a load of other great stuff he's contributed over the past few years. Schlansky also works for that other music magazine, Rolling Stone, and if you check out their Rock Daily blog today, you'll find a video that features him singin' "Hurricane" and "Quinn the Eskimo (The Mighty Quinn)." Evan, another AS contributor, "Under the Radar" scribe David Mead, some RS staffers, and, you know, Tracy Bonham, The Pierces, and members of Albert Hammond, Jr., Mooney Suzuki and the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, are all performing as the Rolling Thunder Reborn Band. The act was created to honor the 66th birthday of THE American Songwriter, Bob Dylan. It looks like it was a hell of a good time. We've been wondering why he didn't get Jann to send the RS jet down here to Nashville to bring the AS staff up for the party. Maybe next year. Seriously, though, rock on, dude.

By the way, Happy Birthday, Bob.

Man Alive!!!!

2007-05-23T18:01:00.001-04:00

While laying witness to the bizarre, kitchen sink-loving, gypsy-punk that was the Man Man set at Nashville's The Mercy Lounge last night, I leaned over to my buddy and said, "This band is like the clown you were always afraid of when you were a little kid." As weird and frightening as they are at times, you can't take your eyes off of Honus Honus and crew. The Philly quintet unleashed spoon throwing, oxygen tank beating, kazoo(?) blowing, furious drum banging, falsetto squealing, stool-pogoing, and a bundle of other Krusty's Funhouse madness to deliver an electrically entertaining set. Selections from their upcoming release abounded, and let's just say that it's gonna be off the chain. Man Man also delivered a number of favorites from last year's Six Demon Bag and their debut The Man in A Blue Turban with A Face such as "Engrish Bwudd" (with the crowd screaming "Get the F*** out of my house), "Banana Ghost," "101b Moustache," a speedy "Black Mission Goggles," and the rousing show closer, "Van Helsing Boombox." There was certainly never a dull moment, and if anyone left the show dissapointed, then that person needs to think about some things.

Man Man's myspace page

Manly Times
Tue 06/26/07 Orlando, FL Back Booth*
Wed 06/27/07 Miami, FL Studio A*
Thu 06/28/07 Tampa, FL Orpheum*

Fri 06/29/07 Athens, GA 40 Watt Club
Sun 07/01/07 Brooklyn, NY TBA
Fri 07/27/07 Akron, OH The Lime Spider

w/Elf Power

Dead Confederate

2007-05-22T13:47:00.000-04:00

Dead Confederate hails "from Atlanta by way of Augusta, Georgia." I heard about them from a friend back in December, but the tip got lost amongst the chaos of planning my overseas expedition. Today I found out that they just signed with Gary Gersh, who brought Sonic Youth and Nirvana to Geffen. I also hear that there are some BIG names in the producing mix for their debut LP. They released the Dead Confederate EP in 2006, and it definitely isn't a another gravy-laden southern rock record. There's shades of Nirvana, Pink Floyd, Neil Young, My Morning Jacket, and Explosions in the Sky in Dead Confederate's ominous psych-rock sound. Imagine an acid trip in a 4x4 hearse down a backwoods Georgia dirt road. Sometimes scary and menacing, sometimes beatiful, always badass. Check out their myspace page for selections from the EP as well as a few other songs. I recommend "News Underneath," "Shadow the Walls" and "The Rat." Actually, listen to all of 'em.

Dead Confederate will be playing throughout the Southeast for the next month.

May 25 2007 10:00P
11:11 Tearoom...w/Morning State...Free Show, Free Beer Atlanta, Georgia

Jun 8 2007 10:00P
JJ's Bohemia...w/The Nim Nims and All the Saints Chattanooga, Tennessee

Jun 9 2007 9:00P
The Bottletree...w/All the Saints and Taylor Hollingsworth Birmingham, Alabama

Jun 14 2007 10:00P
Mercy Lounge...w/All the Saints & TBA... Nashville, Tennessee

Jun 16 2007 5:30P
City Stages Festival Birmingham, Alabama

Jun 17 2007 11:00A
Reg's Coffehouse Radio Program Birmingham, Alabama

Jun 22 2007 10:00P
40 Watt Club, Athfest...w/Dexateens, Mother Jackson, and Madeline Athens, Georgia

Jun 29 2007 10:00P
Jinx...w/All the Saints and Sovus Radio Savannah, Georgia

Jun 30 2007 10:00P
The Pourhouse...w/Two Cow Garage Charleston, South Carolina

Back in the Saddle, Cracked Out

2007-05-21T13:53:00.000-04:00

After some other obligations last week, I'm back in the bloggin' saddle. Expect multiple daily posts from here until August.

First things first. My friend B.K. told me about mock-hop duo Cracked Out after he saw them on Human Giant. I checked out their myspace page to listen to "Bennigan'z," and it's dagum high-larious. There's also this video of them performing it on HG, and they say it's a song about "wannabe Gotti boys from Jersey and Long Island, with the moussed up hair and whatnot."

Peep both for yourself and also check out this vid of them giving a "lesson in counting." Never before has math been so fun. Anybody know where I can score one of those pimpy silk jackets?

Another Matt and Kim

2007-05-08T12:32:00.000-04:00

The sound isn't great on these two, "It's A Fact (Printed Stained) and "Yea Yeah." It was LOUD! But they're too loony f**kin' awesome to not post. These kids rock.

Josh T. Pearson, Matt and Kim

2007-05-07T13:52:00.001-04:00

We're back in the States. Needless to say it's been a pretty strange transition. Here are a couple of vids that Tillery finally uploaded onto youtube.com. The American Songwriter youtube page should be up and running pretty soon.

More of the gothic country of Josh T. Pearson:

Matt and Kim, live at Madame Jojo's, part of "White Heat" night.

You get an idea of how much fun this set was. For their first performance in England, they played a lot of tunes from their self-titled debut. And with a combination of those crack-catchy, punk-pop songs, their jubilant energy, and Matt's comedic stage antics, the night was big smiles, headbanging, and high fives all around. See for yourself.

Better Late Than Never: Josh T. Pearson, Explosions In The Sky--Paradiso, Amsterdam, 2/24/07

2007-04-29T09:01:00.000-04:00

Before the Explosions in the Sky show was set to begin at Paradiso back in February, Tillery came up to me and asked, “These guys are from Texas, right?”

“Yeah.” I said.

“I think I met one of them at the cigarette machine. He sounded like he was from Texas. There he is.” He pointed across the venue.

“Over there.”

“Damn, he doesn’t just sound like he’s from Texas.”

Tall and gangly with a long, gold miner’s beard—nearly thicker than his waistline—and donning a ratty cowboy hat and dilapidated garb seemingly stolen from a Deadwood set, the guy looked like he traveled to Amsterdam on a tumbleweed. I immediately recognized he wasn’t in EITS, and when he nonchalantly hopped onto the stage from the crowd, I knew we were in for something interesting.

We soon found out that he was Josh T. Pearson, the night’s opening artist and the former front man of Lift to Experience, an acclaimed indie rock outfit from Denton, Texas—also home to Midlake, Centro-matic, and--ahem--Norah Jones.

On the Bella Union website, Pearson remarks that after his father, a Pentecostal preacher, left him, his mother, and his brother out to dry, he began to his faith in God. Eventually, at the age of 19, “what [he] had known to be the presence of God physically left his body and [that] the music that [he] play[s] on his guitar is still the only thing that brings [him] to [God].”

This is absolutely the truth. From the moment Pearson unleashed his Gothic western sound, characterized by his hauntingly troubled wolf yodel, hornets’ nest guitar distortion, and thunderstorm on the horizon, boot-stomping rhythm, it was clear that the grizzly song smith was channeling energy from an outside source. Songs such as “Angels vs. Devils” and “Sins of a Fall” defined spine chilling—especially when Pearson howled one note for nearly 45 seconds during the former. Listening to his set, one could draw comparisons to the dark country of Cash, the driving song structure of Drums Not Dead, and the eerily mythical leanings of Jim Morrison, but Pearson’s music is really unlike any other. And though his performance was painfully gloomy at times, his strong-willed delivery shone light through the darkness. An uplifting performance in the face of despair.

And to tell you the truth, it’s too bad for Austin-based Explosions in the Sky, an avant-garde, instrumental rock quartet whose sound often encompasses the vastness of West Texas, that they chose Pearson as their opener. Even as majestic as their set was at times—most notably during Those Who Tell the Truth’s “With Tired Eyes, Tired Minds, Tired Souls, We Slept,” How Strange, Innonence’s “Greet Death,” and All of the Sudden I Miss Everyone’s “Welcome, Ghosts,” with the band playing like mystical puppeteers, one moment molding the crowd into an ambient tide of bobbing heads and thrusting it into a cathartic fury at another--I found it impossible to forget the captivating mystique of the apostolic first act. I guess that’s why Explosions in the Sky lists Pearson and Lift to Experience as an influence. Here’s hoping that Pearson's solo album drops soon.

"Who Cares What the Question Is?"

2007-04-23T05:07:00.000-04:00

While eating a delicious dinner the other night in a Camden pub, I was intrigued by a music video--think if Wes Anderson had taken a bunch of acid and made The Life Aquatic in claymation...wait a second--playing on the flat screen behind the bar. Initially, the neo-Muscle Shoals piano and crusty slide guitar, basically all I could hear, led me to believe that it was the blues-loving, Detroit roots rockers The Deadstring Brothers. However, when the credits flashed, I saw that it was actually Isle of Wight's The Bees aka A Band of Bees. I missed their highly regarded show at the Astoria when I was here a few months ago and have wanted to see what all the fuss was about ever since. So, yesterday I went and picked up their newest release, Octopus. It's an album seeping with 60's psych-rock influences such as the Beatles, Country Joe & the Fish, and the Byrds("Hot One!," "Love in the Harbor","The Ocularist"). And though the band attempts to illustrate a range wider than stoner rock--they nicely incorporate Meters-eque funk on "Got to Let Go"--The Bees get a little bogged down in Toots and the Maytals with "Listening Man" and practically steal the piano riff from Stevie Wonder's "Livin' for the City" on "(This Is for The)Better Days." Admittedly it's easy to listen to--hell, the band obviously has great influences--but it's an album that keeps you wondering where you've heard a tune before. Here's the video for "Who Cares What the Question Is?" It's actually the best song on Octopus. Tell me what you think.

Check out the Bee's myspace here.

Whiggin' Out in London

2007-04-20T09:55:00.000-04:00

Well, I ain't really losing it. However, I'm back in London for the last leg of what has been an epic journey and I've been diggin' on the Whigs' live radio session that Dodge posted on My Old Kentucky Blog last week. Never heard 'em do anything acoustic like this before--don't think anyone has--and I hope this isn't the last time. I have been particularly keen on "Like A Vibration," as it has been one of my favorite songs by the Athens, GA band for a while now. Though this cut doesn't really pack the punch that the electric version does, frontman Parker Gispert's vocals still ring with strong emotion. Check 'em out for yourself and check 'em out in a town near you.

Apr 20 2007 7:30P Vanderbilt - Rites of Spring w/ Drive- By Truckers, Wolfmother.... Nashville, Tennessee
Apr 22 2007 4:00P Cornell University...open to students and general public Ithaca, New York
Apr 23 2007 8:00P Rock & Roll Hotel Washington, Washington DC
Apr 25 2007 8:00P Jewish Mother Norfolk, Virginia
Apr 27 2007 4:00P Salve Regina University Newport, Rhode Island
Jun 16 2007 8:00P Bonnaroo Manchester, Tennessee

Update

2007-04-09T14:31:00.000-04:00

It's been a nearly three weeks since my last post. It's been a pain to get things up lately because of some technological difficulties. However, there should be some good stuff up soon. This Wednesday we are checking out Panda Bear in Lisbon and I also have a review and some nice vids from an enthralling Andrew Bird show that we caught last weekend in Benicassim. Should be of things up starting next week, when we will have a solid working hub in London. Until then, check out this vid of my brother mountain biking in Arizona. He set it to ¨Massive Nights,¨ by the Hold Steady--a righteous choice.

I'll try to post some other vids and tidbits until we get the big stuff up. Stay tuned.

Papa Smurf on Eight Mile

2007-03-20T13:43:00.000-04:00

Here's a video I came across on fark.com of the Smurfs singing Eminem in German. Total coincidence that I found it. I think these guys are up there with "The Hoff" in terms of German star power. This is so bizarre. Figured y'all might need a little humor.

Also, check out chuckandkyser.blogspot.com for the funniest video I have seen in quite some time.

Other stuff is in the oven.

Bodi Bill from Berlin

2007-03-20T09:09:00.000-04:00

Well, dang. I done it again. I've left you with nothing for over a week. Musical searches in Münich were in vain. Like Tillery said, it's like something really awesome is hiding. Even here in Berlin, the arts hotbed that I kept hearing about wasn't showing its face. However, I'm starting to see it more and more, and good news for y'all, it includes some good tunes, too. I've also found a good working hub here. So worry not. We'll have some goodness this week and hopefully I can finally get those pesky reviews up. I've also been thinking about a report on busking and the multiple types of the art we've encountered during this adventure. So marinate on that. And oh yeah, we saw Air last night. And we have mad footage. As my high school advisor used to say, "There's a lot on the skillet."

But right now I want to tell you about Bodi Bill, an electro-folk duo consisting of Alex Amoon and Fabian Fenk. According to 030, a weekly guide to the Berlin scene, these fellas get down on a Mac book and some stringed instruments. After checking out their myspace page, I'll say that it's working. "Nothing" is like the Knife and Hot Chip having remix battles with a neo-soul track. On the other hand, "Willem", an anxious love ditty, is more traditional, flipping between choppy, maraca-backed piano and spooky(at times), soaring keyboards. Neat. Listen for yourself and tell me what you think. Also, if you like it, check out their debut, No More Wars, on Amazon.

Also, take a gander at this video of their somber number, "Very Small". Another indication of this band's diverse sound.

Olli Kahn, "The Hoff"= German Superstars

2007-03-12T12:08:00.000-04:00

Well hey there everybody. For the past week, you've probably wondered, "Where in the hayell is Jay right now?" Or better, "When is he gonna post those reviews?" Or maybe you haven't cared one bit, and like my brother, Shelton, you spent the weekend driving one of these badboys.

Regardless, I've got some answers for you. And videos. And a review. And I know these things are coming in slower than a granny on her rascal, but I'm in Europe. There is a lot of stuff to see and do here. Plus, these internet cafes aren't the greatest places in the world. (Even though this beautiful German woman sitting next to me is making things more interesting.)

Yeah, so we're in Münich right now. We went to see Bayern München take on Werder Bremen last night at Allianz Arena, which looked liked this:

It was a 1-1 draw. But it was total madness.

So you might be saying, "This is music blog, not a soccer blog." Yeah, you are right. Well, during warmups last night I was overwhelmed by quite an interesting tune by the German pop group, Die Prinzen. The song is called "Olli Kahn," and is obviously a tribute to the famous German goalkeeper. Get this; Kahn and his back-up are the only two players on the field, and this song is blaring over the loudspeakers, while nearly 85,000 crazed Germans sing along. Talk about an ego trip. Think if every single person in the United Center sang " Like Mike" while Jordan warmed up. That's still only 21,000 people. Quite a bizzare experience to see one individual so idolized. Hit me up if you know of any other athlete tributes.

Oh, and no post on Germany can exist without mentioning another German superstar. David "The Hoff" Hasselhoff Here is a video of his song, "Jump in My Car."

I'm sorry. I just couldn't resist.

And last week's playlist is encompassed by this video of Daft Punk's "Around the World." Some of you have already seen it, but who cares. It's about the best damn thing out there.

We're hoping we can find some tunes that cool while were in Münich. Here's to that.

Junior Boys: Where Was My Mind?

2007-03-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

Here's some advice I wish I had remembered before the Junior Boys show last Sunday.

BEFORE MAKING PLANS ON THE DAY OF THE SHOW, CALL THE VENUE TO CHECK THE SET TIMES.

You see, the ticket listed Russian Futurists as the opener for Junior Boys, an electronica-loving pop duo from Ontario. So, considering we had so much to do that afternoon before we left for London the next day, we planned on getting to the show 90 minutes after doors--just in time for the JB set. As we walked in, I could hear the synth-pop sounds of So This Is Goodbye's "In the Morning" seeping from the 2nd floor stage. Either they were starting off with a bang, I thought, or we had totally egged. Consider it eggs benedict.

Once we got up the stairs, I began questioning the Junior Boys merch salesman.

"How long have they been playing?"
"For an hour."
"What 'bout Russian Futurists?" I whined, bewildered and somewhat agitated.
"Russian Futurists aren't playing tonight."

My heart sank. We had missed basically the entire show. Luckily, Jeremy Greenspan and Matthew Didemus came back out for one helluva encore performance of STIG's "The Equalizer," and Last Exit's "Under the Sun," providing us with a taste of what JB has to offer live.

Yeah, so next time I will make better plans. This video says a lot about how I felt following my enormous blunder.

The Greatest British Pop Song Ever Written

2007-03-06T09:36:00.000-05:00

Seeing as how I've been in London for the past week, it baffles me that I haven't posted a video of the greatest British pop song ever written. Most of you have probably seen it (and heard it), but here's Ricky Gervais aka "David Brent" with "Free Love Freeway."

And yes, that is Noel Gallagher on lead guitar.

P.S. Those reviews are on the way. For serial.

Neon Monday

2007-03-05T09:05:00.000-05:00

We woke up early this morning to avoid any maid confrontations--we weren't supposed to stay at the ISH last night, but were safe now until Thursday--and went to The National Gallery to check out "Manet to Picasso," a breathtaking collection of Impressionists. On the way back to George's place, we stopped and picked up a copy of Neon Bible, The Arcade Fire's new release and the current indie good book. It dropped here on Saturday, suckas. I hadn't really heard much of it up to this point, but after listening to it a little bit, I'll say it sounds nice, Clark. Real nice. Expect a review later. (I know, I've said that for the EITS show and for the TBK/TBA double affair and you've received nothing. I promise they will be up soon. It's a tricky net situation here. Plus, wouldn't you be worried about me if I sat in front of my computer all day and didn't see the sights of London?) Also, The Avett Brothers’ show on Saturday night...oh buddy, was it wild! That one's on the way as well.

That's it for now. We're off to The British Museum. Cheers.

Actually, sit back down. Watch our video of "I Killed Sally's Lover." It'll whet your palate for the Avett review. I'm not the greatest photographer, but this should illustrate the band's electric delivery. Also, I apologize for the hand in front of the screen. It's from some girl that I shushed earlier in the night for talking during a slow song. The nerve.

2007: A Space Odyssey

2007-03-04T10:20:00.000-05:00

Like I mentioned a few days ago, my buddy Bradley Pitts is a rocket scientist turned artist residing in Amsterdam. He's been working on some rad projects. In addition to exploring the concept of vision, he's combed everyday life for moments when we're weightless. . Here's the video of the latter venture. Check it out and spread the word! (He's also working on a bid to get to space and bring back more amazing interpretations of the void.)

And you thought Wayne Coyne was thinking outside of the box.

Here's his website.
www.bradleypitts.info

You can also check out more of his vids here.

This Week's Playlist

2007-03-02T13:51:00.000-05:00

As you know, we've been hanging around London all week. We are adding a few songs that got us through our stay in Amsterdam, but most of 'em are from our time here in Foggytown.

Panda Bear--"Comfy in Nautica"--Person Pitch--Paw Tracks

For the past few months, Noah Lennox has been the rage of the blogosphere. So, I know we're late, but this song might just have the best message out there right now.

"Coolness is having courage/Courage to do what's right/ Try to remember always/Just to have a good time."

Plus he went to Camp Mondamin in Tuxedo, NC--an automatic indicator of his badassity.

Dark Meat--"Freedom Ritual"--Universal Indians--Orange Twin

"Oh, I just can't get you out of my head."

Explosions in the Sky--"Welcome, Death"--All of A Sudden, I Miss Everyone--Bella Union

They played this new track on Sunday night and I think everybody in the joint rocked goosebumps.

Babyshambles--"The Man Who Came to Stay (B-Side)"--Down in Albion (Deluxe Edition)--Rough Trade

Pete Doherty got caught trying to smuggle a spoon into the bathroom last night at the NME Awards. Come on, buddy. The rolling garage rock of this one has been propelling us for a good bit, and it's fitting that it's becoming our song in London.

Annuals--"Complete or Completing"--Be He Me--Ace Fu

I know we had a song from Annuals last week, but the tripped-out, wild west waltz of "Complete or Completing" is about as catchy as it gets.

The Avett Brothers--"Matrimony"--Four Thieves Gone: The Robbinsville Sessions--Ramseur Records

If somebody can find another song like this out there, I'll give 'em a dollar. Did I mention I'm excited we're seeing this band tomorrow night?

The Black Keys--"You're The One"--Magic Potion--Nonesuch

They played this somber blues tune both nights we saw 'em at Shepherd's Bush. I don't think I'll forget it.

120 Days--"Come Out Come Down"--120 Days--Vice

You already know what I think of this one.

The Hold Steady--"Stuck Between Stations"--Boys and Girls in America--Vagrant

This Springsteen-friendly bar rock is just plain awesome. Can I get a hell yes?

Kings of Leon--"On Call"--Because of the Times--RCA

You've probably already heard it, but here's the single from KOL's upcoming record. The disc is set to drop on April 2nd in the UK and the 3rd in the States. This song says a lot about how big it's gonna sound.

Flosstradamus--"Overnight Star"--Unreleased

We were hoping to catch this fantastic duo opening for DJ Atrak and Kid Sister in Sheffield tonight, but our plans fell through. This song might be an oldie but it'll always be a goodie.

That's it for now. As always, if you like 'em, go get 'em out at your local record store. Look back for those reviews and have a nice weekend. Hope it isn't raining wherever you might be.

Teasers, Tunes, and "Talk On Indolence"

2007-03-02T09:01:00.000-05:00

A further note about the Decemberists review: we have videos. We are trying to get them uploaded. Hopefully it will happen today. I haven't really commented on the Black Keys/Black Angels affair. I don't want to spoil the review, but I will say that it was a tremendous show--a true blast from the past. Here is a teaser video from TBK's second night for y'all to check out.

Also, we haven't forgetten the JBoys and EITS reviews, though the JB story will be a tad short. You'll understand. We'll have those up and we'll also have another weekly playlist. Although, considering we didn't post one last week, it's looking more bi-weekly.

Oh, and here's another video from the Avett Brothers. This one's called "Talk On Indolence." It's from their 2006 release, Four Thieves Gone: The Robbinsville Sessions. We actually see them tomorrow night--not on Sunday. I couldn't be more excited.

Dang.

"Hear All the Bombs Fade Away."

2007-03-02T08:47:00.000-05:00

When most people hear Amsterdam, they immediately think of smoke-filled coffeeshops where the coffee plays second fiddle and glowing red alleyways burgeoning with scantily clad seductresses and packs of horny men looking for 15 minutes of fun. There are much better things to do in Amsterdam, and the Decemberists reminded us last Wednesday that seeing live music at Paradiso is probably the best. For those of you that don't know The Decemberists, they are a spirited, Portland, Oregon-based quintet with a knack for eloquent storytelling and Irish-tinged folk rock. Their recent 2006 release, The Crane Wife, has received high acclaim. As for Paradiso, like a lot of music houses in the States, the venue is a restored church. However, with its two-tiered, ornate balconies, large bar, and grand, red velvet curtain-backed stage, the place seems more like a Tombstone era theater than an old house of worship.

The first thing one notices when going to a concert in the Netherlands is that the Dutch are really tall. In fact, my friend Brad informs me that they are the tallest population in the world. After constantly having to steal glances of the stage between clusters of human towers during opener Lavender Diamond and the first few songs of the Decemberists, I can't disagree. Eventually it was decided that best vantage point would be found up high. But despite the viewing issues, the crowd at Paradiso was the best I've encountered thus far. A solid mix of young and old, American Apparel hipster and Doc Marten wearing Joe, the audience was attentive and respectful all night. In addition, there were very few of the recently experienced boorish inebriates that enjoy shoving their way to the bar and loudly slurring ill-timed lyrics in your ear. Always a plus.

It was definitely a positive that the crowd was up for a good time, because The Decemberists love nothing better than getting the fans involved. After a so-so set of folk-pop from Lavender Diamond, tarnished by lead singer Becky Stark's penchant for over the top, flower child stage antics, the Decemberists got things rolling with Picaresque's drum-laded "Infanta." After "rocking [his] laces untied" during Castaways and Cutouts' "California One/ Youth and Beauty Brigade," lead singer Colin Meloy led the band through an unusual jazz jam into Picaresgue's rollicking tale of paths crossed, "We Both Go Down Together." Later, following a blues breakdown spearheaded by lead guitarist Chris Funk--also known for his guitar battle with staunch conservative Stephen Colbert--the five-piece performed Her Majesty, The Queen's "Billy Liar." Throughout this opening run, Meloy was chatty with the crowd, even imploring us to "tear the doors from the hinges" of the AMS Museum Hotel. Maybe there wasn't a mint on the pillow.

Despite the band's brilliant display thus far, Paradiso still buzzed with anticipation. Everyone who knows the Decemberists' live affairs knows they love their standard mid set calisthenics. As Meloy told the crowd after an enthralling performance of The Crane Wife's "Yankee Bayonet (I Will Be Home Then)"--beautiful multi-instrumentalist Lisa Molinaro joined the front man for a glowing rendition of the romantic duet--the band "wants to spread health and fitness." So that's exactly what they did, jovially prodding the crowd to "crouch down and feel the burn," because even though the bike is the preferred mode of travel in the Dam, the Decemberists weren't fooled. "We've seen your hills," Meloy quipped.

This was only the tip of the crowd interaction iceberg. After ordering up a shot of whiskey for drummer John Moen, and feeding the audience energy with a rousing performance of Crane Wife hit "Oh, Valencia," Meloy and company broke into Picaresque's blues-inflected rocker, "16 Military Wives"--a song chock full of political commentary. For the last refrain of the "la de da" chorus, Meloy split the crowd in two for a singing competition. "Competition," he stated, "Is everywhere today. There's competition between religion. Between Citizens. Between Politicians. We're here to spread the good word." With that, he led sections of the crowd against one another, with the nonsensical lyrics representing the pointless basis of conflict in the World today. Then,following the always chilling "The Crane Wife #3," Meloy and co. utilized their music once more in a political fashion, urging the crowd to join for the final chorus of The Crane Wife's "Sons and Daughters." The audience did exactly that, filling the music hall with the uplifting cry of "Hear all the bombs fade away," a glimpse of hope in today's war-ridden state of affairs.

The crowd wasn't finished yet. After Colin Meloy delivered a chilling, slowed-down rendetion of "Red, Right Ankle" for the first song of the band's encore, the Decemberists pulled another rabbit out of the hat for the act's closer, Castways and Cutout 's "A Cautionary Song." As Meloy and accordionist Jenny Conlee began the song onstage, the rest of the group entered through the back doors of the venue and made their way towards the middle of the crowd, all playing percussion along the way. Once there, Meloy illustrated his love for history, directing a re-enactment of the Dutch naval victory at Chatham Harbor in 1667. Surrounded by a chain of British warships--audience members led by John Loen--the Dutch ships, led by Dutch Admiral Chris Funk, broke through the barrier and defeated the British fleet. With that, Paradiso erupted. Like the night's performance, it was a victory for all.

NME Awards Concert Series Cajun Dance Party, 120 Days, The Hold Steady, Kings of Leon

2007-03-01T11:00:00.000-05:00

Because of the late admission to Monday night's NME Awards Concert Series, I didn't bring my camera along. Thus, there will be no multimedia with this review. Sorry. Luckily, I brought my trusty pen and paper, so worry not.

Despite some stellar performances, the viewing experience at the Astoria was one of the worst I can remember. Due to the evening's headliner, everybody was trying to get in. Scalpers were selling tickets for 4 times the list price. By the time the Hold Steady rolled around, the Carling had been flowing for almost 2.5 hours and the near capacity venue was heating up. Once KOL came on, not only were you lucky not to get pushed every time somebody left for the bathroom or the bar, you were also serenaded with drunken sing-alongs you didn't pay to hear (in your ear).

But one can't let the viewing experience affect the perception of the music, which on Monday night, was mostly terrific. North London's Cajun Dance Party got things started in front of a minimal crowd. Despite good energy and a commendable performance from their nearly epileptic front man, Daniel Blumberg, the baby-faced band's indie pop was too run of the mill to leave a lasting impression.

120 Days were quite the surprise. The Norweigian foursome's krautrock infused post-punk invoked thoughts of bands ranging from New Order to Kraftwerk to Pink Floyd to Jane's Addiction. At times the sound beamed from Saturn and at other times it drifted from the basement of a grungy punk venue. However, throughout the six song set, the music rollicked along like a motorcyclist on a midnight autobahn ride, and by the time they arrived at act closer "Come Out, Come Down," from their self-titled debut, the growing crowd was grooving along on the back tire.

Who knows what the crowd already knew about The Hold Steady, a Brooklyn via Minneapolis quintet that enjoys slugging it 70's bar rock style. There were some band tees here and there, most notably one that read, "The Hold Steady Almost Killed Me." Playing their last show of their European tour, bearded Craig Finn and company came out and proceeded to blow the doors off with "Stuck Between Stations," "Chips Ahoy," and "Hot Soft Light" all from their heralded 2006 release, Boys and Girls in America. From the opening note, it was immediately apparent that this is a band that loves nothing more than getting onstage. It's less like they are playing a concert and more like they are an assembled crew of extremely vivacious and musically talented best friends playing music for a badass party, with the endearingly erratic Finn telling stories and egging everyone on. For instance, during "Hot Soft Light," he instigated a friendly duel between lead guitarist Tad Kubler and keyboardist Franz Nicolay, constantly swaying his allegiances in order to draw more from each musician. And the band didn't slow down after their blistering start, churning out more sweltering numbers from their recent drop such as the Pabst chugging anthem, "Massive Nights," the enormous vote of confidence, "You Can Make Him Like You," and the quick-witted narration of adolescent mischief, "Stevie Nicks" from 2005's Seperation Sunday. And as The Hold Steady--slapped with grins from ear to ear--closed their set with SS's "Your Little Hoodrat Friend" and the magnificent "Southtown Girls," those newly initiated crowd members looked around at their friends and shook their heads in approval.

Things started getting a little hairy in between the end of THS and the beginning of the Kings of Leon's set. After the Brooklyn band's liquid friendly performance, the audience was really lubed up--most of it chanting "LEE-ON!" Much to the chagrin of some more peaceful onlookers, burly Brits were having no qualms about shoving their way towards the stage. And when the lights dropped and the band's ghastly orchestral intro music came over the loudspeakers, the Astoria foamed at the mouth. As with The Hold Steady, there were immediate revelations with KOL's start. It appears that tours with U2 and Pearl Jam have made an impression, as the quartet came flying out of the gates with a new, heavy-riffed opener, they illustrated that their garage days are gone, and that Because of the Times is going to sound really big. Not only that, but the band's playing has really progressed. On "Taper Jean Girl" and "King of the Rodeo," both from 2005's Aha Shake Heartbreak, lead guitarist Matthew Followill's measly solos of old were replaced by more complex and hard rocking finger work. And contrary to past shows, when it often looked as if they were only playing as much as their talents allowed, lead singer and rhythm guitarist Caleb--donning a sleeveless jean jacket--and his younger brother, bassist Jared, were totally in control of their respective instruments. Meanwhile, older brother Nathan slapped the skins in perfect rhythm while coolly blowing bubbles with his chewing gum. By the time they got to Youth, Young, and Manhood's "Molly's Chamber," with the brilliant lights swirling and the heavy riffs ringing strong and clear, Kings of Leon appeared like a band destined for arena stardom. However, unlike the fun-loving Hold Steady, KOL looked more like they were at work on songs like Heartbreak's "4 Kicks" and Manhood's "California Waiting" and "Spiral Staircase," during all of which Caleb, whose lyrics were muffled by the crowd singing along to every word, screamed backstage for more mic like a focused professional. And like their recent single, “On Call,” these new songs are interesting and diverse. Some are much heavier, some are more spaced out, and one in particular, a big, back porch blues shuffle, is the most Southern tune the band has written to date. All are huge. And when the night came to the end with Heartbreak’s “Slow Night, So Long”--the crowd in total chaos--one could tell that this band is going to be, too.

What's Beef?

2007-03-01T08:27:00.000-05:00

The Kaiser Chiefs and the Arctic Monkeys need to shut up. Tonight, London hosts the NME Awards Show and the only thing people are talking about is the possibility of a hostile exchange between the two aforementioned British bands. That's because they've been talking a bunch of baloney about one another. It started with Alex Turner, head ape for the Monkeys, stating that if the comparisons to the Kaiser Chiefs--their recent release, Yours Truly, Angry Mob, continues to tear up the British charts-- keep up when they release their upcoming album, Brianstorm, AM will quit making music. That's a load of rubbish. So then, rather than smartly saying, " We don't waste time talking sh*t about another band, because it's lame," which it is, Kaiser Chiefs keyboardist Nick Baines replied through Gigwise with the following:

"We're an easy target because nobody ever slags off a small band. It'd be better if they were writing better songs than us, but they're not, so they can shut up."

And as if that wasn't enough, he topped it off with this:

"It's not as if I'm hurt or lying awake at night or anything. We'll get on with what we're doing and you get back to packing shelves in supermarkets again."

If it doesn't matter, then don't say anything. Maybe they'll get in a fist fight tonight at the NME Awards. That would be really tough, huh? I don't even know why I'm posting about this. After all, Notorious has already spoken the truth about "beef." Don't remember. Here's a refresher.

Warning: This video contains explicit lyrics.

*Picture taken from www.thisislondon.com.uk

Forget the Big Bunch of ISH with Some Help from "Dr. Stringz"

2007-03-01T07:26:00.000-05:00

I feel like Dunston from Dunston Checks In. We're staying at the International Student House in London right now, and apparently you have to pay to stay in your friend's room--our chap is the always gregarious George "Papa" Paschal. We paid the first night, and after some monkey business last night, we were roused from our beds by a Paul Reubens lookalike named "Nacho" who told us that we had to pay again or get out. He was informed of our presence by the psychotic maids that have nothing better to do than rat on people. They get paid to make the beds and take out the trash. Give me a break. So after jumping through flaming hula hoops and slaying the dragon of the Thames, we're back inside. Only problem is, most of the review material is on a computer locked in George's room. This is why I am currently quite perturbed. Oh, the trials and tribulations of a journalistic vagabond. So the Decemberists and EITS reviews are on hold, but I've got news and I've got the scoop from Monday night's NME showcase. But first, forget about the crud with this video from the master of stringed instruments and melodic whistling, Andrew Bird. Here he plays "Dr. Stringz" on "Jacks Big Music Show," a kids program for the Noggin Channel. It's great lighthearted amusement for the young at heart. We're trying to get to Bernacassim, Spain to see Bird in March. Probably gonna be a request for "Dr. Stringz."

You "keep that string music coming," Dr. Bird. It keeps me happy.

Change of Plans for Tonight, Reviews Coming Soon, Recs

2007-02-28T13:13:00.001-05:00

Holy Moly. After a travel snafu, we decided to bag tonight's Avett Brothers show in Nottingham and wait until Sunday to see 'em in London. And since last night's Black Keys/Black Angels show at Sheperd's Bush Empire was so killer, we're going again tonight. The review for the Decemberists is almost there. And the JBoys, EITS and NME showcase reviews are also on the way. We'll also have the review for last night and tonight. Like Axl said, "All we need is just a little patience." Is that why we're still waiting for Chinese Democracy? Ahem.

Ok, check out this video of Josh T. Pearson, who opened for EITS. Pretty big on him after the show, and will have more about him with the review. And please, please, please, go here to listen to the acid loving southern rock of Dark Meat--some of the most badass tunes I've heard in a while. It's another American band--they're from Athens,Georgia--but what the hell. It would be wrong not to tell you.

Minor Delays, But In A Good Way

2007-02-27T07:07:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a very good day. After arriving in London, AS Abroad headed to Harrod's for some much needed rock 'n roll history. Yes, that Harrod's, the paragon of lavish consumerism. Right now they're off the hook, as they're sporting a fascinating exhibit called Born to Rock. In addition to holding the first guitar available for public purchase, nicknamed the "Frying Pan," the collection boasts six and four-string guitars from such axe icons as Jimi Hendrix, Bo Diddley, John Lee Hooker, Neil Young, Chet Atkins, Eric Clapton, and Brian Jones. Not a bad roster, eh? In addition, there are a number of custom guitars that have been designed by artists from all over the world. Contributors include music video director and photographer David LaChappelle, Bono, fashion label A Bathing Ape, and musician turned photographer Brian Adams. Sorry for the tangent, but who remembers this:

Gotta love the Japanese karoake format. Damn guilty pleasures.

Back to the topic at hand. The collection is clearly awesome, and I will post some pics as soon as my computer creeps out of the Jurrasic Period. If you are in the area, definitely stop by. Did I mention it's free?

After scouring the exhibit, we stopped by the Camden district, where we perused some markets and record stores. There was some serious vinyl going on--one cavernous store comes to mind--but I distanced myself, as I knew I had plans. Big Plans.

What were those plans? Acquiring entry to last night's segment of the NME concert series, featuring Kings of Leon, The Hold Steady, 120 Days, and Cajun Dance Party. The main object of my desire to get inside was to see The Hold Steady, who, until last night, I had never seen. I also wanted to check out the new KOL material from their upcoming album, Because of the Times. Thanks to a bit of fundilation, both goals came to fruition.

Expect a big review today, but here's a summary for now.
Cajun Dance party was a healthy dose of British post-punk. 120 Days was way out there, groovin' it krautrock style. The Hold Steady killed it as usual, and picked up some new fans along the way. And Kings of Leon. Well, let's just say the garage days are over. The new stuff is arena-ready.

So that's what the delays are all about. There's a lot on the platter right now. Decemberists, Junior Boys, Explosions in the Sky, NME. It might take a little while to get the reviews up, but it'll be worth it. And don't think I won't provide some entertainment for the wait.

In honor of New Musical Express and the UK's most famous band, here's a video of the Beatles performing "Ticket to Ride" at an early NME showcase. Tops.

Oh, and by the way, when I use "We", dont think I've gone crazy over here. It's not me, myself and I. My cousin Tillery Johnson has been trekking around with me. He's got some good vids that we're going to post. And, he's a bit like Cousin Eddie, at least in the unpredicability category. It's about time I introduced him. Here is his first vid. It's from a reggae fest that we went to in Salamanca on Bob Marley's birthday. The fest consisted of some DJ's and vocalists, and really wasn't much to speak of, which is why I didn't make a lenghthy post about it. But this guy had some crazy flow, though I have no idea what he is saying. I think it's French. Anybody care to translate?

Dam(n) Rain

2007-02-25T06:09:00.001-05:00

It's been raining all week in Amsterdam. Damn. However, there have been some interesting things to do, like browsing the ever-inspring Van Gogh museum. And, thanks to a good friend, Bradley Pitts, there's been a dry roof over my head. Pitts is quite an interesting guy. Look out for a story on him. The rain also didn't stop AS Abroad from catching another spiritedly unique Decemberists show at Paradiso on Wednesday night. Should have that story up soon. Like most Decemberists performances of late, there was some very amusing crowd interaction. Paradiso is a multifloored venue, so tonight I'll shake my buns to the pop/electronica sounds of Junior Boys, then go upstairs and take in(and probably rock out to) the brooding, avant-garde instrumentalism of Explosions in the Sky. Sounds like fun to me. Sorry for the low content, It's been a tough internet week. There should be a good helping of posts in the next few days. For now, check out this video from British twee-rockers, The Boy Least Likely To. The song, "Be Gentle with Me", always gets me of a funk.

New Feature: The Weekly Abroad Playlist

2007-02-17T12:04:00.000-05:00

Ciao. AS abroad is in Florence, Italy right now. On Valentines Day I found an awesome vinyl store, complete with a copy of a hilariously Gary Coleman-adorned, Diff'rent Strokes seven inch. Didn't buy it because I got kicked out for browsing. Hmm.

Yesterday, while cruising around the Tuscan countryside, listening to my nano (Thanks, Bob), I thought about posting a weekly list of 10 songs that are propelling our travels. Some will be new, some will be old. Some will be foreign, some won't. But if you haven't already heard 'em, I urge you to check, check, check, check 'em out. And if you have, perhaps give 'em another spin.

Amadou & Mariam--"Sénégal Fast Food"--Dimanche a Bamako
The uplifting, West African rock from this blind Malinese couple, featuring Manu Chao, makes me smile.

Annuals--"Sway"--Be Here Me
Beautiful song from this Raliegh-based wierdtet that often encompasses the beauty of new European sights.

Midlake--"Roscoe"--Trials of Van Occupanther
Try to get this Neil Young singing Fleetwood Mac number out of your head. I dare you.

Jim Noir--"My Patch"--Tower of Love
A bubbly popper from this British one man band that is the perfect song for a sunny drive.

Klaxons--"As Above, So Below"--Myths of the Near Future
Electro pop-punk from the recently-released, red hot debut of this British trio that will get you out of bed and moving.

TV on the Radio--"Hours"--Return to Cookie Mountain
Creepy waltzer that beautifully complements late night travels.

Sigur Ròs--"Saeglopur"--Takk
For some reason these orchestral sounds of Sigur Ròs always fill my buds when I'm on the subway.

Wolfmother--"Colossal"--Wolfmother
I will remember the band's ear-ringing Hammersmith Apollo performance of this song for as long as I live. Plus, it's badass.

Hot Chip--"Colors"--The Warning
Melodic British electronica that just makes sense when you are taking it all in.

Drive-By Truckers--"Easy on Yourself"--A Blessing and A Curse
With this one, Jason Isbell reminds you to make the most of your opportunities. Fitting for a self-disciplined journey.

Also, check back in the next coming days for that freestyle video. We're trying to get it up. In addition, on Tuesday we head to Amsterdam, where we'll see the Decemberists, Junior Boys, Explosions in the Sky, and hopefully a few more. Should be quite a week for AS Abroad, so stay tuned.

Howlin' Wolf

2007-02-17T11:37:00.000-05:00

Disclaimer..Because of the size of the venue and my lack of camera equipment, the videos and pictures didn't turn out so well. So, I ain't postin' 'em. All apologies. However, worry not--there shall be good media for future reviews.

The Beatles. The Yardbirds. Ziggy Stardust. Iggy and the Stooges. Black Sabbath. The Who. Neil Young. Iron Maiden. Guns N' Roses. Queen. All of these musical juggernauts have rocked the London Hammersmith Apollo. Young set the place on fire. Literally.

Knowing this last Tuesday night, it was hard not to imagine what it was like in the free-flowing days of Revolver or the hair and leather times of Sabbath Bloody Sabbath--especially considering the current fashion mode takes a heavy dose of retro. The grand decor is flavored with the spilled suds and long exhales of many a raucous occasion. The pervading sense of nostalgia was also heightened by the fact that the evening's act, the hard-rocking Australian three-piece, Wolfmother, released a self-titled debut last summer teeming with influences of the likes of Led Zeppelin and Sabbath. However, as soon as the show began, all yearnings for shows past we replaced by refreshing waves of exhilaration.

Following the two-drummer psych rock of Wolf and Cub, Wolfmother entered with pistols blazing. As the band finished their blistering opener, '"Dimension," Stockdale proclaimed to the crazed masses, "It's the changing of the guard. From the Wolf and Cub to the Wolfmother." This initiated an ass-kicking run. We first heard the rolling thunder of "Pyramid," with the frizzy-haired front man’s full moon bays reminding us of the band's handle. Next the threesome demonstrated their breadth of influences with "Apple Tree," which skips from Stoogish fury to New Wave metal. Stockdale then paused a moment, remarking that the crowd might relate to the next song, because that morning in London he saw a lion and a unicorn on a date. Not quite sure if one could actually identify, but with those words, he strummed the opening riff of "White Unicorn," leading the frenetic Aussies into a devastating performance--highlighted by a lengthy adaptation of the number's mystical bridge. The band ascended into a swirling descension, then were pulled out by the drumming of Myles Heskett, who propelled the group higher and higher until, BOOM!, they exploded with that seismic riff, sending the chaotic crowd into delirium. Enraptured fans climbed onto the outstretched hands of their neighbors, attempting anything possible to get closer to the stage. While other, more aggressive members of the audience released their rage in rugby-worthy mosh pits.

Wolfmother's stage antics were doing nothing to alleviate this insanity. Stockdale's performance was characterized by stage sprints, Elvis shimmies and amp-top solos. On "Witchcraft" he howled like Ozzie and wind milled like Townshend. Heskett unleashed on the drums with such an enormous amount of energy that it's a wonder he even made it to the band's galloping single, "Woman," late in their set. And with his Yes-like organ playing during "Mind's Eye," which the band hauntingly creped into following a heavy freak out ending to "Woman," Chris Ross nearly destroyed his keyboard. His dominating style left the keyboard on end--and the crew scrambling to cut the heightened feedback--upon the finish of the set ending number.

After a few minutes of roaring applause, Wolfmother retook the stage. Beginning with the back porch boogie of "Vagabond," the threesome capped off a two night run and an incredibly rejuvenating performance with their four song encore. And while "Communication Breakdown" has been a continual crowd pleaser, the bookends for this homage to bands past--tremendously powerful "Colossal" and heart-racing act closer "Joker & the Thief"--illustrated that the band's originals can hang with songs of old and, distinguishing the need to be nostalgic for classic rock. It's alive and kicking. Just ask the crowd that watched Ross sprint across the stage and leap over his keyboard to finish the final piano riffs of the night. Yeah, it's safe to say that future journalists will hark back to the days of Wolfmother.

Apologies, Updates

2007-02-10T17:28:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody, we're in Rome right now. I realize that there hasn't been a post since Monday and I apologize. This week has been really hectic, as I've been from London to Salamanca to Madrid and now to Rome. A lot to complain about, huh? Poor me. Anyhoo, I caught the Wolfmother show at the Hammersmith Apollo on Tuesday night and it was mind-bogglingly rad, so check back here in the next few days for that review. There will also be some other stuff, such as a new music update and an awesome video my cousin captured on Thursday night of a French dude freestyling in a bathroom. Yeah. Until then, check out this video for The Avett Brothers' spine-tingler, "November Blue." Looking forward to seeing them in a few weeks.

Emily Haines, You Are Not A Preacher!

2007-02-05T08:03:00.000-05:00

My arrival in Oxford was not as smooth as I hoped it to be. (NOTE TO SELF: before going to a new city, make sure you write down hostel address.) After criss-crossing Oxford with my 40 pound pack trying to find the hostel with the yellow door--for some reason people didn't respond to my queries of, "Do you know where the hostel with the yellow door is?"--I found the Central Backpackers Hostel. After settling in, I asked around the joint and figured out how to get to Zodiac, the venue where Metric was playing.

A short cab ride, box office check-in, and staircase climb later; I was engulfed by sweaty bodies, cigarette smoke, and the eerie punk-pop sounds of Emily Haines and company, who were closing out their opening number. As I found out from the gentleman beside me that it was in fact the end of their first song, the initial notes of "Poster of A Girl" rang out. Immediately the audience threw itself into a frenetic boogie, one that lasted through the heavy riffs of “Patriarch On A Vespa” and most of the catchy space-pop of “Police and the Private,” which Metric nodded to a close with a longwinded psyched-out transition—burdened with distorted, swirly guitars, ballistic percussion, and far-out synthesizer work. However, those lost during this segue were quickly recaptured by the “Bawitaba”—listen again if you haven’t noticed it--introduction of “Monster Hospital.” Backed by the powerful guitar work of Metric co-founder James Shaw and the driving rhythm of bassist Josh Winstead and drummer Joules Scott-Key, the beautiful Haines appeared commanding throughout the song, especially as the crowd joined her for the last chorus, a quasi-a capella chant of “I fought the war/ I fought the war, but the war won.”

Unfortunately for Haines and Metric, these early triumphs didn't last. Beginning with a jaded introduction--centered around vague accusations about “stealing music”--to first set closer “Rock Me Now,” a rising, spoken word piece from an early LP, Haines’ behavior for the last part of the act was, to use a bit of local jargon, wankerish. Besides the rousing first verse and chorus of second set—or was it encore—opener “Dead Disco”, from the band’s debut, Old World Underground, Where Are You Now?, and an invigorating instrumental solo while the front woman went offstage, the second half of the performance was an embarrassing Emily Haines rant. Now, I will say, that once in a while the audience may warrant a hit or two of advice, but not from someone as strung out as Haines looked last night. And certainly not advice as circuitous and indecipherable as her diatribe was. After one oblique lecture about ringtones and downloads, she thanked the audience for “letting me get that off my chest.” *Crickets*. Perhaps the common opinion was expressed best by a local standing next to me. Towards the end of the nonsense, after hearing Haines repeatedly chant something along the lines of, “Just tell me what you want,” he looked at his friend and stated, “More songs.” Cheers, mate. Next time Emily, don’t get so caught up in saying, “f*ck corporate rock,” which is what she gracefully exclaimed as she walked off stage, just play some songs. Please.

Let's hope for everyone's sake that this behavior doesn't characterize Metric's tour with Bloc Party through the UK.

Oggsford Man

2007-02-03T11:14:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow I'm returning to Oxford,England, the locale of my '02 summer studies. Should be a jolly good time, as tomorrow night I'm heading to Zodiac to catch the Metric set. Ahh, Emily Haines. I've never seen the Toronto-based band live--and just started listening to them in the past few months--so it should be quite an interesting first experience. Here's the video for the seductively bustling "Poster of A Girl", from Metric's 2005 release Live It Out.

America, Revisited

2007-02-01T07:10:00.000-05:00

I know, this is supposed to be the AS Abroad blog, meaning it should mostly be about artists from across the pond. However, this American has a bigger following overseas than in the States, so I figured I'd give you some news on Willy Mason. As you might already know, Mason is a 22 year old troubadour from Martha's Vineyard. He's got songwriting in his blood--his parents were both folk singers--and it shows. The honest-to-the-bone songsmith writes with soulful wisdom that far surpasses his age. His debut album, Where the Humans Eat, was released by Conor Oberst's Team Love label in the fall of 2004 and garnered much critical acclaim. Since then, he's done some pretty cool stuff. You know, like opening for Radiohead, My Morning Jacket, and Roseanne Cash. Nothing too special. He's also finished his follow-up, If the Ocean Gets Rough--Cash lends her tender voice--set to be released March 20th. Check out some tracks here and let me know what you think.

Also give this video a gander. Mason says the song, "Pickup Truck", is "another new one." Keep 'em coming, Willy.

America, F*** Yeah!

2007-01-29T12:55:00.000-05:00

I'm in Bonn, Germany and I can't get away from the U.S.A. First it's the McDonald's on every corner. Then there's Starbucks. Pizza Hut. Burger King. Then today I turned to the back of the Sueddische Zeitung, a major German newspaper, and what do I find. An article about Tennessee, focused on Nashville--mainly the Grand Ol' Opry! Give me a break. Seriously though, quite interesting to read an article about Music City written from an outsider's perspective. In a description of Broadway, Hatch Show Prints, Robert's Western World, and Legend's Corner got some love, as did the Ryman Auditorium, which the writer, Franz Dobler, hailed as "the old mothership of country music." Right on. Not quite as right on was his stating that Nashville was once "Pilltown," home to "Amphetamine freaks Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings." Why you gotta play like that, Franz? Naw, Dobler does well by Nashville, stating that when it comes down to it, "Nashville is still the country music capital of the world." I think that is a fair assertion.

Pull Over! Nope, It's A Cardigan but Thanks for Asking!

2007-01-25T09:27:00.000-05:00

We're pulling over, because this is one view nobody wants to miss. I'm talking about The View, a working-class quartet of cheeky, baby-faced Scots from Dundee sporting influences ranging from the Clash to the Beatles to the Libertines—Pete Doherty recommended 'em to 1965 Records prez, James Endeacott, who promptly signed the band. For the past year they've been tearing up the UK with blistering live shows, hypnotizing their audience into mindless cheers of "The View! The View! The View! The View are on fire!" On Monday, the band's debut, Hats Off To The Buskers, was released in the UK, and after listening to it on Myspace, I have to agree with the fans. This album is blazing. It’s as fun as driving your first car--fitting considering that all four band members were born after 1986. From the snarling opener, “Coming Down”, to the unpredictable teenage anthem, “Same Jeans”, to the pig latin sing-along, “Wasted Little DJ’s”, Hats Off roars with irresistible hooks and melodies that make you want to get drunk and do something stupid. And that's OK every once and a while, right? Listen to the whole thing Here. It’s the only cure for the cravings you will experience until the album drops in the States.

American Songwriter: European Vacation

2007-01-25T08:51:00.000-05:00

Alright folks, gather up your things and get in the car, we're trekkin' around Europe, American Songwriter style. This isn't going to be your run of the mill sightseeing. This isn't a point and shoot tour of the tourist hotspots. We're going to search high and low for the hottest music this continent has to offer. See how North American bands like The Avett Brothers, The Black Keys, Metric, and The Decemberists fare overseas. Marinate over quite possibly the liveliest music scene in the World. We'll have quirky musings, fresh finds, live reviews, photos, video, doner kebobs, you name it. So, clean out your ears, fasten your seatbelts, and hope that Cousin Eddie doesn't find us. Or that he does.